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December 2014 Kislev/Teves 5775

ORANGE COUNTY JEWISH LIFE Here Comes Chanukah! Delightful Ways to Celebrate To Tree or Not to Tree? Shark Tank Takes a Bite

Paula Abdul Forever Israelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Girl

T KIDS? GO

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Become an ambassador of Holocaust

MEMORY HOLOCAUST MEMORY. I often ask myself what it actually means. Is it that we remember those who perished and those who survived? Is it that we tell the personal stories of each individual’s anguish and resilience? Who is the holder of memory? Can memory exist if it is not held by individuals, by groups, by communities, by schools, and by museums? Working at the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust, I think about these questions often. The Museum, founded by Survivors residing in Los Angeles in 1961, holds the memory of people who were lost, of people who survived, of their families, and of their histories. The photographs, the testimonies, the local newspapers from 1933-1945, the twenty-seven hours of education via audio guides, the docent-led tours, and the Survivor speakers, are all part of the sharing of this memory. It is a space that invites commemoration, education and, for me, as for students and visitors, reflection. LAMOTH engages visitors young and old. Through Museum programming, young people in the community, leaders in their own right, can become ambassadors of Holocaust memory and history. In addition to the Museum’s vast collection of original artifacts, documents and archival materials, this fall, our second collection of precious and personal artifacts arrived on loan from the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum. Several middle schools were invited to nominate students to act as ambassadors of memory and take part in the unpacking and witnessing of these objects first hand. In November a special exhibit opened at the Museum in collaboration with Mona Golabek and centered on the life story of Ms. Golabek’s mother Lisa Jura as told in the acclaimed book The Children of Willesden Lane. As part of this collaboration with Ms. Golabek, and through our Ambassadors of Music and Memory program, young musicians will have the opportunity to perform in a special recital using the Bluthner piano, the largest Holocaust-era artifact at LAMOTH. LAMOTH’s advanced research fellowship for

LAMOTH |

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area high school students is newly expanded to include the Samson Advanced Institute of Jewish Studies at Tarbut V’Torah Community Day School in Irvine. Selected fellows will have the opportunity to directly examine a number of artifacts from the Museum’s collection and archives, conducting original research on these important, often understudied Holocaust-era primary sources. In partnership with Israeli high schoolers, fellows will hold seminar sessions to discuss their findings, with a culminating presentation in Israel. Set in the tranquil space of a city park, the interior of the award winning Museum building contains nine galleries. Tours open with The World That Was, where students learn about the rich tapestry of European Jewish life before the Holocaust. At the gallery’s epicenter, the Memory Pool, an interactive touch table, allows visitors and students to view and interact with over 8,000 archival photographs documenting the daily life of hundreds of families in pre-war Europe. In the last room of the tour, a video sculpture, the Tree of Testimony, displays nearly 52,000 Survivor testimonies in 39 languages, from the USC Shoah Foundation’s database. We invite you to experience LAMOTH and become an ambassador of this important and complex history, through witnessing one artifact, listening to one story, sharing in one history. Samira Miller is Director of Community Support at the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust. She is the granddaughter of Holocaust Survivors, a wife, and mother of two, and a member of 3G at LAMOTH.

323.651.3704 | www.lamoth.org

Happy Chanukah! Covenant B’nai B’rith, Unit 2215 Meeting Bi-Monthly Marie Callender’s Restaurant 13252 Brookhurst St. Garden Grove, CA 92840 President: Cathy Gassman

714-534-5880 www.bnaibrith.org

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| DECEMBER 2014 7

inside VIEWPOINT

LIFESTYLE

Israel Scene Holidays & Tumultuous Times

JLIFE | Kislev/Teves 5775 | DECEMBER 2014

History/Blogs Orange County’s Jewish History & The Blogosphere

On the Lighter Side Mishnah and Monkeys

The Peel Laughing it Off in Orange County

Israeli Guy Jewish Chutzpa

Jewish Swag An Interview With GeltFiend Creator, Carin Agiman

FEATURES

Flames and Games It’s a Hanukkiyah— not a menorah!

The Chanukah Creep Chanukah goodies are available earlier and earlier.

Light ‘Em Up What would the Maccabees say?

What Is Jewish? A Family, a Civilization, a People

Base Vacation Joining the IDF as an American

Caring For Loved Ones Part two of our three-part series ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Out & About A Guide to OC Fun

Gobble-Gobble, Menorah? An Interview With the Menurkey-Masterminds

What is Chanukah? Those beautiful symbols are there for a reason.

Rachel Goes Rogue Boyfriend…and Holidays?

Fresh Orange Jews O.C.’s Fresh Faces IN EVERY ISSUE

First & Foremost Jewishly Speaking

Book Review My Promised Land

Cooking Jewish With Judy Bart Kancigor Pounds of Dough A Mega Challah Bake in OC

Letters/Who Knew Words From our Readers News & Jews O.C. Jewish Scene Seniors Calendar Fitness, Education & More

To Tree or Not to Tree Shark Tank takes a bite at an age-old question.

Advertising Index

Look inside for Kiddish, our insert publication, right after page 40.

26 On the Cover

Forever Israel’s Girl: Paula Abdul talks about her trip to Israel with JLife.

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| DECEMBER 2014 9

PUBLISHER | MODY GORSKY, LLM, MBA PUBLISHER | MARK EDELSTEIN PUBLISHER | MOTAN, LLC PUBLISHER EMERITUS | DR. MARK MOSS MANAGING EDITOR | TRACEY ARMSTRONG GORSKY EXECUTIVE EDITOR | DR. LISA GRAJEWSKI EXECUTIVE EDITOR | FLORENCE L DANN GEN Y EDITOR | RACHEL SCHIFF CONTRIBUTING EDITOR | TANYA SCHWIED FOOD EDITOR | JUDY BART KANCIGOR EDITORIAL INTERN | HANNAH SCHOENBAUM ART DIRECTOR | RACHEL BELLINSKY CONTRIBUTING WRITERS MARTIN BROWER, MERAV CEREN, ADAM CHESTER, FLORENCE L DANN, RABBI DAVID ELIEZRIE, ROBIN DAVIS, PH. D. HARRIETTE ELLIS, JUDY FLORMAN, STEFANEE FREEDMAN, EVE GUMPEL, CHARLES KRAUTHAMMER, DVORAH LEWIS, CARINE NADEL, PAMELA PRICE, NAOMI RAGEN, MAYRAV SAAR, RACHEL SCHIFF, ANDREA SIMANTOV, DALIA TAFT, TEDDY WEINBERGER COPYEDITOR MICHELLE ITEN CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS/ARTISTS RACHEL BELLINSKY, ALLEN BEREZOVSKY, PEPE FAINBERG, JANET LAWRENCE, CHARLES WEINBERG ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES DIANE BENAROYA (SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE) MARTIN STEIN (SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE) BEN SMITH (ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE) EDITORIAL (949) 633-5456 (DR. LISA GRAJEWSKI) OR (949) 734-5074 EDITORJLIFE@GMAIL.COM ADVERTISING (949) 812-1891, MODY.GORSKY@GMAIL.COM CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTIONS MODY.GORSKY@GMAIL.COM, (949) 734-5074 ART ART@OCJEWISHLIFE.COM JLIFE IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY ORANGE COUNTY JEWISH LIFE, LLC 1 FEDERATION WAY, IRVINE, CA 92603

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Jlife is published monthly by Orange County Jewish Life, LLC. Subscription rate is $24 for one year (12 issues). Send subscription requests to Jlife, 1 Federation Way, Irvine,CA 92603. Jlife is a free and open forum for the expression of opinions. The opinions expressed herein are solely the opinion of the author and in no way reflect the opinions of the publishers, staff or advertisers. Orange County Jewish Life, LLC is not responsible for the accuracy of any and all information within advertisements. Orange County Jewish Life, LLC reserves the right to edit all submitted materials, including press releases, letters, articles and calendar listings for brevity and clarity. Orange County Jewish Life, LLC is not legally responsible for the accuracy of calendar or directory listings, nor is it responsible for possible postponements, cancellations or changes in venue. Manuscripts, letters, documents and photographs sent to Orange County Jewish Life, LLC become the physical property of the publication, which is not responsible for the return of such material. Orange County Jewish Life, LLC is a member of the American Jewish Press Association and the Jewish Telegraphic Agency. All contents © 2014 Orange County Jewish Life.

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For tickets by phone call 1-800-838-3006. For other questions call Vivienne Shear between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm at 1-714-639-4132.

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| DECEMBER 2014 11

FIRST & FOREMOST

JEWISHLY SPEAKING When is Jewish enough? BY FLORENCE L. DANN

MIMI AND I were five years old and were great friends. Looking at pictures of ourselves hugging each other as only five-year-olds can, me with a lopsided haircut, courtesy of my sister, and Mimi with her tightly curled chestnut hair, I remember the fun times we had—playing in the snow drifts in our backyards pretending we were trudging through Arctic snow drifts and drinking “tea” with our dolls in her sukkah. It never occurred to me why she never ate in my house, though I had no problem having milk and cookies at hers. And then one day she moved away. I cried because she never said goodbye. I Each of us overheard my parents sayexpresses our ing that they moved because Judaism and the neighborhood just wasn’t connection to Jewish enough. Even though I was only five, I understood each other in that I wasn’t Jewish enough— various ways. mitvahs where I was relegated but didn’t exactly know what to a seat behind the mechitza that meant. And then when and couldn’t see a thing to the I was shamed by a teacher at many times I attempted to attend services and religious school who accused me of coming just didn’t fit in. That feeling exists among from a house of traif (which I didn’t undermany in our community today. But with the stand either) because I had brought a box of extensive history of our people, the countries non-kosher cookies for party—there it was and cultures we have lived in and with, how again—I wasn’t Jewish enough. Though the can anyone define exactly what is Jewish? rabbi came and pleaded with my mother to send me back, my mother knew that if she Well, we at JLife want to explore the many forced me to return, I might be turned off facets of “Jewishness” here in Orange County. As mentioned in one of this month’s Judaism. Instead, my parents sent me to a Jewish camp, and that solidified my con- articles, Adin Steinsaltz uses the analogy nection to my Jewishness. But that issue of of a family to describe the Jewish people. being Jewish enough had always haunted As members of this large family, each of me—through all my male classmates’ bar us expresses our Judaism and connection 12 DECEMBER 2014 |

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The Sarajevo haggadah

to each other in various ways: how we pray to how we celebrate. Has there been a generational shift from tribal to social? What defines and binds the modern Jewish Community? And what is the prevailing sense of connection of modern Jews to Israel? These and other areas of Jewish life in Orange County today will be the focus of a series of articles. We hope you will share your ideas and experiences as well. A Florence L. Dann, a fourth-year rabbinical student at the Academy for Jewish Religion in L.A., has been a contributing writer to JLife since 2004 and currently teaches English as Second Language to adults.

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Clean the menorah later; it’s movie time! Don’t Miss this Month: • The Outrageous Sophie Tucker – Wednesday, December 10th • Bethlehem – Sunday, December 14th September 3, 2014 through April 26, 2015 21 Features and Documentaries Founded by University Synagogue Co-sponsored by: Temple Bat Yahm Temple Beth Emet Temple Beth Tikvah Congregation Shir Ha-Ma’alot For film, schedule & pricing: ocjff.org • 949-553-3535

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For film, schedule & pricing: ocjff.org 949-553-3535

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| DECEMBER 2014 15

LETTERS

2.04 and 382 SO, and won The Cy Young award. On September 9th he won his fourth no-hitter. A “perfecto.” Down the stretch he pitched five times in 15 days, winning 4, 3 by shut-outs. Today, when a pitcher feels a little twinge in his elbow, he comes out of the game and gets X-rays, MRIs, and probably goes on the DL. In 1965, Koufax was in constant pain before, during and especially after every game and still pitched 336 innings.

MORE ON THE GREAT KOUFAX I was surprised to see Sandy Koufax on the October issue of Jlife and even more surprised to see him smiling on page 27. I enjoyed reading Steve Lipman’s article and was amazed that he was able to get an interview, guarded as it was. The article focused on Koufax missing a World Series game because of Yom Kippur but did not tell much of how great a pitcher he was. Sandy Koufax pitched six years in the majors, all with the Dodgers. For the first six years he was a journeyman and went 36-40. Then, starting in 1961, with a little help from second-string catcher, Norm Sherry, he became great. He made the All-Star team every year from 1961 through 1966. In 1965, he won the pitcher’s Triple Crown with 26 wins, an ERA of

In the first game of the 1965 World Series against Minnesota Drysdale pitched and lost. He got hit hard in the third inning. When Walter Alston came to relieve him, he is reported to have said, “I bet you wish I was Jewish today, too.” Game two Koufax pitched and lost. Game three the other starter, Claude Osteen, pitched and won. Game four Drysdale won and game five Koufax won. Then game six Osteen pitched and lost. Now with the Series tied 3-3, Alston decided to let Koufax pitch on two days rest. Sandy pitched a threehit complete game shut-out to win the World Series. Sandy Koufax won 27 games in 1966 and then retired. He was 30 years old. He was inducted into the Hall on Fame on the first ballot. In 2014 Clayton Kershaw became only the fourth Dodger to have multiple 20-game winning seasons. The other three—Koufax, Drysdale and Osteen. Bob Blum Cypress, CA

We welcome your letters! Email editorjlife@gmail.com with your feedback. 16 DECEMBER 2014 |

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Eight Epic Chanukah Songs Adam Sandler brought us to tears of laughter with his “The Chanukah Song” which debuted oh so many years ago (1994) during “Weekend Update” on Saturday Night Live. However, did you know that are many other fantastic Chanukah songs by some very funny and talented actors, comedians and musicians as well? Check out Jlife’s top favorite finds to tickle your funny bone and celebrate this fun holiday season. PHOTO BY ZACH DALIN

Kvetch & Kvell

“The Chanukah Song” By Adam Sandler “How Do You Spell Channukkahh?” By the LeeVees “(I’m Spending) Hanukkah in Santa Monica” By Tom Lehrer “Hanukkah Oh Hanukkah” By Erran Baron Cohen “Miracle (Hanukkah Song)” By Matisyahu “Candlelight” By the Maccabeats “My Menorah” By Chevonne “Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel” By South Park “Christmastime for the Jews” By Robert Smigel

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| DECEMBER 2014 19

Israel Scene | BY ANDREA SIMANTOV

Holidays & Tumultuous Time

DRAWING BY PEPE FAINBERG

The Tick Tock of the Middle Eastern Clock

WE QUICKLY ADAPT TO WHATEVER UPRISING IS TOSSED INTO OUR LAPS.

A TIMEWORN JOKE in the orthodox community: A priest and a rabbi are on the first tourist-rocket to space. Reporters meeting them at Cape Canaveral after reentry note that the priest looks rested and glowing from his journey into “the Heavens.” The rabbi, however, is completely disheveled: yarmulke askew, jacket crinkled and half-off, he’s a mess. Reporters ask: “How was the journey?” to which

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the priest answers, “A miracle! Such splendor! A testament to the Creator of the Universe!” The rabbi screams, “What splendor? Exhausting! Tefillin on! Tefillin off! Horrible! Give me a twenty-four hour day, will you???” For observant Jews, the year moves more rapidly than for others. Because the sabbath is an anchor that moors the week, secular pursuits are always peppered

VIEWPOINT

with a generous dose of Jewish awareness. No sooner are the sukkah decorations packed away when we haul out the menorahs and wicks. Like the aforementioned rabbi, “Tefillin on! Tefillin off!” Whew . . . . The Middle East has its own clock. War, war, an intifada or two followed by another war, we quickly adapt to whatever uprising is tossed into our laps. In between, we make weddings, go for job interviews, have a couple of moles removed and try to take in dinner and movie. Words like “average” and “normative” don’t figure into our social vocabulary because we try to squeeze real life into some non-bomb shelter moments. We’ve only begun to catch our collective breath after this summer’s Defensive Edge blood-bath, but the enemy doesn’t believe in “time-out.” If butchery were part of the evolutionary process, the time line might include knife attacks (terribly passe, the Fogal family in Itamar a recent exception); bombs—freely lobbed, strapped to one’s body or on an available donkey—are less personal and make for livelier news coverage; the creative bulldozer method of Jew-killing has proven unwieldy and, consequently, unpopular because terrorists who operate heavy machinery are shot dead before disengaging from the cabin. But just in time for the holiday season, the emerging weaponof-choice is none other than the family sedan! Compact, readily available and easy to maneuver, the simplicity of driving into a group of students or families waiting to hop a bus is nothing short of genius. Evil genius? Only to us. The rest of the world understands the attackers; after all, what else can they do? They are exploited, frustrated, principled and brave. Only we-theoppressors call them terrorists and thugs. We are blinded by arrogance, unappreciative of the martyrs in our midst. Some hold that the miracle of Chanukah was the discovery of one sealed flask of oil that had not been defiled; many hold that the miracle was that the pure flask—enough for one night’s illumination—burned for eight days. Others insist that the existence of any precious oil in the gutted Holy Temple was, indeed, the miracle. Hedging my bets, I like to think that Israel is a lot like the precious flask of oil; while the Temple around us (the world) might fight for its spiritual, moral and physical life, we continue to flicker, sputter, occasionally burn low and oftentimes swell with brightness. But in the end—as in the beginning—we persevere, prosper and remain defiant even when we feel very much alone. A New York-born Andrea Simantov is a mother of six who moved to Jerusalem in 1995. She frequently lectures on the complexity and magic of life in Jerusalem and can be contacted at andreasimantov@gmail.com.

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On the Lighter Side | BY MAYRAV SAAR

VIEWPOINT

Mishnah and Monkeys Loved Ones Need Protected Species Status

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME I CALLED MY MOTHER AT ALL? 22 DECEMBER 2014 |

YOUR MOTHER IS a rhinoceros. You heard me right. I called yo’ mamma a rhino. Most species of rhinoceroses are endangered, meaning in a few generations there might not be any of them left. This is tragic. But then, your mother is definitely the only one of her kind on the planet. And when was the last time you worried about her? I love animals as much as the next (meat-eating, leather-wearing) girl, but I am constantly astounded that people can get so worked up about preserving species while remaining so blasé about nurturing individuals. This is an actual conversation I heard by actual women standing in front of a display of Gorilla Munch cereal at Trader Joe’s: “Gorillas are, like, going extinct.” “That’s so sad. So, anyway, my mom called me, like, 12 times yesterday and then when I called her back she was, like, ‘I don’t have time to talk to you.’ And I’m all, like, ‘You called me,’ and she’s like, ‘I know, I was kidding. This is my sense of humor.’ Ugh! I just can’t deal with her.” If only that woman’s mother were a gorilla. The dewy-eyed primate on the box of breakfast cereal inspired more empathy from the woman than her clearly lonely mother. Jlife

There is only one of any one of us. When you die, the only you that ever existed will no longer exist. And, yet, we don’t we treat each other like the endangered creatures we clearly are. Take a trip to the San Diego Wild Animal Park, and you’ll learn that saving a few animals in captivity is our only hope to save whole species. But in the Mishnah, we’re taught that “to save one person is to save the whole world.” Jewish sages understood the elevated importance of the individual, an appreciation that has gone extinct. Today we are more likely to be moved by the plight of whales than by the quiet loneliness of the people we thumb-type next to at the breakfast table. So, if it helps you understand how precious our relationships are, think of your mother as a rhinoceros. Your father is a chimpanzee. And that friend of yours that you absolutely “adore” but never have time to get together with, she’s an African wild dog. And the next time someone calls your mother a rhino, ask yourself, “When was the last time I called my mother at all?” A Mayrav Saar is a writer based in Los Angeles.

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Israeli Guy | BY TEDDY WEINBERGER

VIEWPOINT

Jewish Chutzpa The Greeks didn’t get it all.

CHANUKA IS THE STORY OF THE BEST CHUTZPA THAT THERE IS. 24 DECEMBER 2014 |

ACCORDING TO MY friend and teacher Rabbi Lior Engelman, “Chanuka is a story of chutzpa.” Since Jews in general and Israelis in particular are known for their chutzpa, which in its most positive connotation means “brazenness,” I thought it appropriate to freely translate below Rabbi Engelman’s thoughts on this matter. When a person is not prepared to recognize their own weaknesses or to know their own “place,” we say that that person has chutzpa. The chutzpadik person always thinks of themselves as much greater than the object of their chutzpa, even if the latter is objectively stronger and more powerful. In the story of Chanuka, two types of chutzpa struggle against each other: Greek chutzpa versus Jewish chutzpa. Greek chutzpa enlarges a person beyond their true dimensions. It gives absolute exclusivity to the human being’s understanding of the world. In its rejection of the Creator of the world, Greek chutzpa wishes to free the human being from a faith in what is beyond and above them in order to maximize human strength. Through a rejection of the existence of the Lord of the Universe and through turning G-d into a statue, Greek wisdom wants to crown the human being as the greatest living power on earth. Greek chutzpa is opposed to Jewish chutzpa. In the face of a chutzpa that wants to defile the world and to turn it into something small, there stands the chutzpa of the flask of oil. This flask, which to the naked eye seems to contain enough oil to light for just one day, is emboldened to go beyond what meets the eye, and this chutzpa serves it well in its time of need. Just like the small number of Maccabee fighters against the sophisticated Greek war machine, the small flask symbolizes Jewish chutzpa. The Maccabees are a symbol for people who are bold enough to think big, people whose dreams are as high as the sky and who will not settle for a wingless, earthbound realism. Chanuka is the story of the best chutzpa that there is—the chutzpa of Jewish faith. It is precisely the chutzpa of faith in G-d that reveals to us that the human being is truly great, for G-d put the human being in charge of the world and put within them an Jlife

infinite, heavenly soul. We know from the Talmud that the world will see an increase of chutzpa in the days leading up to the Messiah (see Sota 49b). Perhaps the Talmud is speaking about the type of chutzpa that we learn from the Maccabees: the chutzpa to dream big, to believe big, to see the world through the eyes of faith, to know that we are bigger than what we might think, and to become as bold as a leopard to carry out the will of our G-d in Heaven. Happy Chanuka. A Teddy Weinberger, Ph.D., is Director of Development for a consulting company called Meaningful. He made aliyah with his family in 1997 from Miami, where he was an assistant professor of religious studies. Teddy and his wife, Sarah Jane Ross, have five children.

Chanukah Festivities For All Ages FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2014 6:00

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| DECEMBER 2014 25

COVER STORY

Forever Israel’s Girl

PHOTOS BY CHUCK WEINBERG

inger, songwriter, choreographer, dancer and television personality Paula Abdul recently spoke with JLife editor Dr. Lisa Grajewski and contributing writer Tanya Schwied about her trip to Israel. Known for her wide swath of talent that began in the 80s, Abdul recently reaffirmed her Jewish heritage when she had her Bat Mitzvah in Jerusalem, which was conducted by Rabbi Eyal Riess. In addition to this event of a lifetime, Abdul traveled around Israel and met with Israel’s President, Shimon Peres, Knesset members and Chief Rabbi Shmuel Eliahu. Abdul, who began her career with the L.A. Lakers, has evolved into one of the most diverse and well-known entertainers. Abdul has been hon-

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ored for her lifetime of achievement, which is evident by the list of talent that graces her resume. She continues to share her talent by working with Australia’s Dancing With The Stars, developing lifestyle and jewelry lines, and becoming a well-known speaker around the United States. Finally, she is a proud member of the Jewish Community and a friend to Israel.

Why did you decide to reaffirm your Judaism faith at this point in time with your Bat Mitzvah in Israel? I always had an interest in my Judaism heritage. When I met my Rabbi—Rabbi Mentz of Bel Air—he got me thinking about reaffirming my faith and having a Bat Mitzvah—and what

Paula Abdul talks about her trip to Israel with JLife. by LISA GRAJEWSKI & TANYA SCHWIED

better place than Israel? It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Why in Israel? Had you ever been before? Are you kidding me? What better place [than Israel]? It was my very first trip to Israel. I wanted to go many times but due to my schedule wasn’t able to until last year.

How has your faith influenced your music, career and family life? You have to have faith to achieve the impossible. And, I can tell you I have had a lot of hurdles to overcome since the day I was born. I was taught, however, not to take no for an answer and to keep fighting for what you believe. Faith has a lot to do with not giving up.

How do you feel about being a role model for young Jewish women? It’s hard for me to think of myself as a role model. I am very proud that I can help women to feel better about themselves by simply sharing a little of my life story. It’s very humbling.

COVER STORY Paula Abdul has had a career that is as varied and colorful as she is.

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| DECEMBER 2014 27

COVER STORY

Left: Paula and Israeli President Shimon Peres. Below: Paula and Dr. Uzi Landau.

What was growing up Jewish like for you? Were you an outsider? Or were you proud and accepted by your peers? Did you attend synagogue? It was

ISRAEL IS MAGICAL AND LIFECHANGING. IT IS THE MOST AMAZING PLACE I’VE EVER BEEN.

my heritage. I didn’t speak much about it because it was personal—but I’ve always been proud [of being Jewish]. I don’t think I ever felt like an outsider regarding being Jewish. It really wasn’t an issue where I was raised. I’ve always been a little different, however—look at the career I chose. I did attend temple, mostly on holidays.

What are some things you like most about being Jewish? I love the beautiful traditions and holidays and spending time with family and of course matzo ball soup.

What did you think of Israel? Would you go back? What were your favorite places? Israel is magical and life-chang28 DECEMBER 2014 |

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ing. It is the most amazing place I’ve ever been. I would love to go back. I love the history, the religious sites, and the people, and did I mention the food? Well, truly everything! One of the most incredible highlights of the trip was getting to meet Israeli President Shimon Peres in Jerusalem. He is such a dear, wonderful and inspiring man.

What was it like to meet such influential people in Israel? It’s astounding to think that people of this rank and stature would make the time to treat a guest like family. I was so humbled by their kindness and grateful beyond words.

Did you ever see yourself as a political person? A political person does all they can to make the world a better place. Sometimes a celebrity can bypass political confusion and accomplish a lot more. I love

shining my light and [making] my change in the world, without the struggle of having to get involved with political arguing. A Dr. Lisa Grajewski is a psychologist working toward licensure. She is a therapist with Jewish Federation & Family Services and is a psychological assistant for a private practice in Tustin. Dr. Grajewski has been writing for JLife Magazine since 2004. Tanya Schwied graduated from New York University, studied abroad in Israel, and currently works for the CEO and President of Jewish Federation & Family Services.

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| DECEMBER 2014 29

F E AT U R E S

The dreidel might just be the most recognizeable Chanukah symbol.

It is also customary to place the lit hanukkiyah in a window so that passersby will see it and be reminded of the holiday.

Dreidel

FLAMES & GAMES It’s a Hanukkiyah—not a menorah! BY FLORENCE L. DANN

THE HEBREW WORD menorah simply means “lamp.” The Hanukkiyah contains nine branches, whereas the menorah contains seven. Of course the eight lights represent the eight nights of the holiday and the ninth flame is called the shamash (“the servant”), for its purpose is to light the others. Pesikta Rabbati, an early collection of midrashim, records that when the Maccabees entered the Temple, they found eight metal spears left by the Greeks, from which they fashioned the first hanukkiyah. Today we have a nearly inexhaustible selec30 DECEMBER 2014 |

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tion of beautiful hanukkyiot made from a variety of materials. The only caution about their form is that the receptacles for the lights should form a straight row and be the same height. Unlike Shabbat candles, Chanukah candles need not be white. One of the joys of the holiday is to see the multicolored candles burning in the hanukkiyot. Electric hanukkiyah have become very popular so that the light burns for hours, truly lighting up the night; but for authenticity, most families will also have one that burns candles, or oil.

The dreidel or sevivon is perhaps the most famous custom associated with Chanukah. While many rabbis have tried to find a connection between the dreidel and the Chanukah story, it’s a bit of a stretch. One nineteenthcentury rabbi maintained that Jews played with the dreidel in order to fool the Greeks if they were caught studying Torah, which had been outlawed. However, the dreidel game originally had nothing to do with Chanukah; it has been played by various people in various languages for many centuries. In England and Ireland the game totum, especially popular at Christmastime, has four letters representing the English words: T = Take all; H = Half; P = Put down; and N = Nothing. Our Eastern European game of dreidel is directly based on the German equivalent of the totum game: N = Nichts = nothing; G = Ganz = all; H = Halb = half; and S = Stell ein = put in. In German, the spinning top was called a “torrel” or “trundl,” and in Yiddish it was called a “dreidel.” The standard explanation is that the letters on the dreidel in the Diaspora stand for nes gadol haya sham, “a great miracle happened there,” while in Israel the dreidel says nun, gimmel, hey, pey, which means “a great miracle happened here.” There is something rather ironic about the dreidel game. While we play it during Chanukah, which celebrates our victory over cultural assimilation, it is an excellent example of our cultural assimilation! A Florence L. Dann, a fourth-year rabbinical student at the Academy for Jewish Religion in L.A., has been a contributing writer to JLife since 2004 and currently teaches English as Second Language to adults.

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F E AT U R E S

Chanukah gives us a chance to celebrate our resilience.

LIGHT ’EM UP

What would the Maccabees say? BY FLORENCE L. DANN

SOON THE LIGHTS will be kindled, the latkes will be frying and shopping for the right gifts will send us to malls and Judaica shops throughout the county. Yes, the Chanukah season will be upon us. Now, doesn’t that sound like something from that other holiday this time of year? Well, it 32 DECEMBER 2014 |

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didn’t start out that way, but lo and behold, Chanukah has definitely evolved, and what was once a minor holiday has, for many, become the favorite and most anticipated one in the Jewish calendar. The story of Chanukah goes something like this. Over 2,000 years ago, Jews lived as

an autonomous people in the land of Israel, controlled by the Greeks in Syria. For the most part they were free to follow their own faith, maintain their own jobs and engage in trade. But that changed when Antiochus IV Epiphanes became King. Under his reign, Jews were gradually forced to violate the precepts of their faith. The Jews rebelled, and as a result the Temple was looted, Jews were massacred and Judaism was effectively outlawed. When Antiochus ordered an altar to Zeus be built in the Temple, the Jewish priest Mattathias and his five sons led a rebellion against Antiochus. After two years of war, the Jewish revolt was successful; the Temple was liberated and rededicated. Once Judah Maccabee won the victory for Jewish tradition, he proceeded to institute a new holiday—Chanukah. But there’s a slightly darker side to the story. Antiochus’ decrees against Jewish practice were actually imposed at the request of a group of Hellenized Jews who resented that Jewish law was the law of the land and wanted to be part of the Greek civilization. The Maccabees’ mixture of spiritual and military resistance took some ironic turns. Once they triumphed, the Maccabees imposed their rule, expanded the borders of the Jewish state and forcibly converted the people they conquered to Judaism. They also came into conflict with the rabbis who thought political leaders should be descendants of the House of David and that there should be a separation of political power from the priesthood. Alas, the Maccabees, who ruled for a century, proved as flawed as any other dynasty. Through their misuse of power and infighting, they ultimately paved the way for Roman rule and a halt to Jewish independence for 1,900 years. When the rabbis of Talmud had to deal with this new holiday, they were challenged

F E AT U R E S

Lighting the Chanukah candles soon became the favorite ‘mitzvah.’

with Jewry’s survival after the loss of Jewish sovereignty and power. It was the time of Roman rule, and so the rabbis created and stressed the divine “miracle of the oil” rather than the military victory and rule of the Maccabees. Chanukah has continued to evolve and change—especially in America. But until recently, its observance paled next to the High Holy Days, Passover, even Purim. Lighting Chanukah candles soon became the favorite “mitzvah,” and its ability to be redefined added to its popularity. The Chanukah lesson taught now was the triumph over religious intolerance—a perfect message for liberal America in the age of the Civil Rights movement. As Jews have become more integrated into American life, Chanukah has embedded itself in our culture. Not to be outdone by the lights of that other holiday, many Jews decorate their homes with strings of electric menorahs, dreidels or Magen Davids. Jews have also extended gift-giving to adults. Except within some Orthodox communities, Chanukah has been thoroughly transformed into a major festival. While some religious leaders see this as another instance of the Jews’ perilous assimilation, others see a brighter side to it. Rabbi Alter Tenenbaum of Chabad in Irvine pointed out that Chanukah was always “advertised.” “We were encouraged to put candle lights in the windows to publicize Chanukah,” he said. “So we can take advantage of its growth by making people aware of its message.” “There is nothing wrong with Jewish children having a significant Jewish holiday when the dominant society is celebrating one of their two major holidays,” said Rabbi Arnold Rachlis of University Synagogue. “However, it is important not to confuse Chanukah with Christmas in Jewish households and to emphasize that part of the Chanukah story whose theme is religious freedom.” How does a community maintain its identity in relation to the broader culture? How much should outside influences be resisted, and how much embraced? Perhaps we can look at the recent evolution of Chanukah, not as a capitulation to the forces of Christmas, but as a rekindling of Jewishness amid a multicultural society. A Florence L. Dann, a fourth-year rabbinical student at the Academy for Jewish Religion in L.A., has been a contributing writer to JLife since 2004 and currently teaches English as Second Language to adults.

Jlife

| DECEMBER 2014 33

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J E S I WI T A S H BY FLORENCE L. DANN

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36 DECEMBER 2014 |

A Family, a Civilization, a People

F E AT U R E S

SEVERAL YEARS AGO on a train from Antwerp to Amsterdam, I entered a compartment where a distinguished-looking gentleman was engrossed in reading a book. As I glanced at the book, I noticed it was in Hebrew and said, “ Oh, Hebrew.” He looked up, smiled and asked me if I knew Hebrew. When I demurred, he closed the book and we talked all the way to Amsterdam. We had identified ourselves as members of the same tribe! Many people who call themselves Jews do not believe in that religion at all! More than half of all Jews in Israel today call themselves “secular” and don’t believe in God or any of the religious beliefs of Judaism. In Orange County, where almost 80 percent of Jews are not connected to traditional organizations, most of them still answer “Jewish” when asked their religion, but often follow up with, “but I’m not religious” or “I’m not very Jewish.” So what is Judaism? And what is Jewish? Is Judaism a nation, a religion, an ethnicity, a race? Throughout the Middle Ages and into the twentieth century, most of the European world agreed that Jews constituted a distinct nation. While a nation was defined as any distinct group of people with a common language and culture, it was only in the nineteenth century that one assumed each nation would have its own distinct government, and the diaspora made that impossible. And the reality is that Jews defy all conventional definitions of a “people” or “nation” because we lack a common race, culture or historical experience. Though we may share eternal rights to the Land of Israel, for most of the last 4,000 years, the overwhelming majority of Jews have not lived in or even visited the Jewish homeland. Of course, Judaism is a religion, and it is this religion that forms the central element of what we call the Jewish culture: whether our food is kosher or no and the calendar of Jewish feast and fast days. And regardless of one’s level of observance, it is religion that most

Adam Sandler is one of our funniest and most talented tribe members.

people associate with the word “Jewish.” Is Judaism an ethnicity? Not any more. Although Judaism arose out of a single ethnicity in the Middle East, there have always been conversions into and out of the religion. So while many have been ethnically part of the original group who are no longer part of Judaism, there are those of other ethnic groups who have converted into Judaism. Once converted, people are considered the same as if they were born Jewish. This is not true for a race. Continued on page 38

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| DECEMBER 2014 37

F E AT U R E S Continued from page 37

The things we associate with Judaism do not neccessarily represent all Jews.

You can’t change your race; it’s in your DNA. Common ancestry is not required to be a Jew. While many Jews throughout the world do share common ancestry, it isn’t necessary. Though one could never become black or Asian, blacks and Asians have become Jews. Most secular American Jews think of their Jewishness as a matter of culture or ethnicity. When they think of Jewish culture, they think of the food, of the Yiddish language, of some limited holiday observances, and of cultural values like the emphasis on education and social justice. Yet, what most of those secular American Jews think of as Jewish culture is really just Ashkenazi Jewish culture—the culture of Jews whose ancestors come from one part of the world. Because Jews have lived in many parts of the world, they have developed many different traditions. Yiddish is not part of a Sephardi’s culture, nor are bagels and lox, chopped liver, latkes, gefilte fish or matzah ball soup. And Ashkenazi charoses is quite different from Sephardi charoses. While a number of cultural traits and behaviors are indeed shared

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F E AT U R E S

by Jews in many parts of the world, those who do not share that culWhen a member of our “family” does something illegal, immoral ture are no less Jews because of it. Thus, Judaism must be something or shameful, we all feel the shame. When Donald Sterling’s remarks more than a culture or an ethnic group. were made public, we asked, “Is he Jewish?” We were embarrassed by Almost all Jews feel a sense of connectedness to each other that the scandals of Jack Abramoff and Bernie Madoff, and totally shocked many find hard to explain, define, or even understand. Traditionally, when Israeli Prime Minister Yitzchak Rabin was killed by a Jew—a this interconnectedness was understood as “nationhood” or “people- member of the “family.” hood,” but those terms seem to have become distorted over time and But when a member of our “family” accomplishes something signo longer seem to resonate. nificant, we are proud. Who doesn’t love Adam Sandler’s Hanukkah Mordecai Kaplan, the founder of song, listing famous Jews? We all take pride Reconstructionism, defined Judaism as a civiin the number of Nobel Prize winners who lization encompassing religion, language, all are Jewish, in scientists like Albert Einstein or forms of culture and tradition. As such, Jews political leaders like Joe Lieberman, even if we may express their Judaism in a variety of ways. don’t all agree with his politics or his religious But as with all topics under discussion by Jews, Yiddish is not a views. And what Jew didn’t feel a sense of pride everyone has a different opinion. part of a Sephardi’s in 1965 when Sandy Koufax declined to pitch Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz has suggested yet in a World Series game that fell on Yom Kippur? culture, nor are another and perhaps better analogy for the Orange County is home to Jews who have bagels and lox. Jewish people: We are a family. Like a family, come from different parts of the country and the we don’t always agree with each other. We often world, bringing their own ideas of Jewishness. argue with and criticize each other. We hold As members of such an extensive family, how each other to the very highest standards, knowing that the shortdo we define our Jewish identity and strengthen the sense of family comings of any member of the family will be held against all of us. here in Orange County? Though my travel companion on the ride But when someone outside of the family unfairly criticizes a family to Amsterdam was undoubtedly from a different cultural background member or the family as a whole, we are quick to join together in and national origin, it took less than a minute for us to recognize each opposition to that unfair criticism. other as members of the same family. A When members of our “family” suffer or are persecuted, we all feel their pain. In the 1980s, when Africa was suffering from droughts and famines, many Jews around the world learned about Beta Israel, Florence L. Dann, a fourth-year rabbinical student at the Academy the Jews of Ethiopia. Though their race and culture are quite differ- for Jewish Religion in L.A., has been a contributing writer to JLife ent, they were like distant cousins we had never met, and Jews from since 2004 and currently teaches English as Second Language to adults. around the world helped them to immigrate to Israel.

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Jlife

| DECEMBER 2014 39

F E AT U R E S

Jackie Kerszenbaum and Nadine Berkowitz

BASE VACATION Joining the IDF as an American BY LISA GRAJEWSKI, PSY.D.

I AM NOT sure how I would have felt about my own mother volunteering with the Israeli Army. So when I heard that a couple of women from South Africa, now living in Irvine, had spent weeks schlepping and cleaning for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) as volunteers with Sar-El, part of Volunteers for Israel, I was intrigued. They were empty-nesters, after all; it was time to enjoy the years after raising children and working to help support a family. And, leaving the comforts of Irvine behind, Jackie Kerszenbaum and Nadine Berkowitz specifically chose to volunteer in Israel. And what better way to do that than three weeks 40 DECEMBER 2014 |

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on an Israeli Army base? Yes, military service is compulsory (for men and women) in Israel, but Kerszenbaum and Berkowitz volunteered their time—making the adventure all that more meaningful. Having spent time on American military bases myself, I had to meet these two women to find out why anyone would voluntarily spend vacation time on a military base! Kerszenbaum informed me she had been inspired by her niece, who previously volunteered with a similar two-week program. Her niece went on to join the IDF and now lives in Israel; “Nadine [Berkowitz] was inspired by me!”

said Kerszenbaum. This was not the first trip to Israel for either Kerszenbaum or Berkowitz. Kerszenbaum lived in Israel for several years (where her husband served in the army, therein politely declining the offer to accompany her on this trip) and Berkowitz had visited Israel years before. After signing up together, Kerszenbaum and Berkowitz requested that they stay together while volunteering. After the long flight, they were met at the airport by Volunteers For Israel and received their assignments. “You are assigned a base when you volunteer,” said Kerszenbaum. And, being first-time volunteers, there is not much of a “choice.” But, fortunately the two friends were placed on the same base. Volunteers for the program came from all over the world and were of all ages and all religions. The mission of the organization, said Kerszenbaum, is to “promote goodwill all over the world.” And so, Kerszenbaum explained, “We wanted to share our wonderful experience

F E AT U R E S

Giving the Power back to the Buyer!

Doing manual labor may not be everyone’s idea of a great way to spend a vacation.

with [JLife] readers so they know they too can participate in this wonderful experience of volunteering service.” Due to security reasons, neither volunteer shared details of the base location or specific work performed, but Kerszenbaum and Berkowitz spoke fondly of the two female Israeli soldiers who acted as madrichim—who took the women under their wings and were their “guides” throughout the experience. The women were part of a group of volunteers that were dispersed all over Israel. Depending on where you went, you could end up in an “open squad bay” (think Private Benjamin or Gomer Pyle if you will). However, they were fortunate in that their room was a two-person room with air conditioning and semi-private bath! In addition to Kerszenbaum and Berkowitz, the base also housed a group of 17 volunteers of various ages, all from America. They were issued army fatigues as work clothes and regulation-issue pillows, sheets, and blankets, rounding off the military experience. The women ate in the mess hall with other volunteers and soldiers. “We were served a typical Israeli army breakfast of eggs, toast, and salad,” said Kerszenbaum. They received briefings and news each morning after breakfast and began work at 9:00 a.m., finishing at 4:00 p.m. They worked side by side with Israeli soldiers. And it did not end with the workday: “we loved every evening!” smiled Berkowitz. Evenings were spent on education, and the volunteers met famous and high-ranking Israelis. The evenings also allowed the volunteers to meet and get to know each other personally and to learn about Israel’s army, history, geography, and much more. And when the work week ended on Thursday, volunteers were free to explore Israel on their own. Many, who had friends and family in Israel, spent time visiting and reconnecting. For others it was an opportunity to see Israel as a tourist. “Sleeping on a cot, eating army food, and doing manual labor may not be everyone’s idea of the best way to spend a vacation,” said Kerszenbaum. “But our experience with Volunteers for Israel turned out to be a remarkable journey, and this was our way of giving back, stepping out, making new friends, getting to know Israeli soldiers, and getting to know Israel.” Would they do it again? Neither Kerszenbaum or Berkowitz would hesitate! And, with all that is happening in Israel, the need is more urgent than ever. If you would like to find out more about volunteering, go to: www.vfi-usa.org or www.sar-el.org. A

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Dr. Lisa Grajewski is a psychologist working toward licensure. She is a therapist with Jewish Federation Family Services and is a psychological assistant for a private practice in Tustin. Dr. Grajewski has been writing for JLife Magazine since 2004.

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| DECEMBER 2014 41

F E AT U R E S

Establishing a support network is very important.

are important to be mindful of when taking care of others: Find your community: Ensure that you have a support network; whether it is your immediate family, friends, co-workers or extended family does not matter. Even if a family member is unable to help with direct care and financial provisions or lives far away, utilize his or her knowledge and strengths. A social network offers support in both crisis and non-crisis situations, providing resources and opportunities to share the burden (emotionally and otherwise) with others. Sometimes you just need another person to listen.

CARING FOR LOVED ONES Part two of our three-part series. BY LISA GRAJEWSKI, PSY.D.

R. SIMEON B. YOHAI said, “The most difficult of all mitzvot is ‘Honor your father and your mother’” (Tanhuma Ekev, 2). We do not get to choose the families we are born into, and when it comes to raising children, no one receives an instruction manual per se. Therein, some aging loved ones are more difficult than others to care for. But it does not have to be an impossible task, and those who take on the task do not have to be impossibly unhappy or stressed about caregiving. 42 DECEMBER 2014 |

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Last month we learned about the timing in discovering that a loved one needs extra care. This month I wanted to honor caregivers and provide some resources to help those who have taken on the task of caring for a loved one. So, whether one is caring and helping from afar, or moving a parent into her home, the caregiver deserves as much compassion and concern as the aging loved one. As a caregiver, it is important to ensure that you are cared for as well. The following areas

Get therapeutic support: Whether you work with an individual therapist or join a group, therapy helps make the caregiving process normal and provides an objective “other” to help guide you through the process. There are support groups available through organizations dealing with elder care issues, mental health issues, and community organizations. Normalize the events: We all get older. Many Baby Boomers and their children are headed into the process of being cared for by someone else, or caring for someone else, so there are a lot of people in the same boat! Additionally, it is important to discuss caregiving with siblings and family members: this allows everyone “a place at the table,” and you make it less frightening and intimidating for all of you when you openly discuss the issues at hand. Take a break: It is okay to have fun! Yes, taking care of an aging or sick loved one is a lot of responsibility, but you must also ensure your own health and well-being. Do not forget to care for yourself and take time to get away. Family, friends, and others deserve your time as well. There are respite services that provide assistance to caregivers and volunteers who can help with logistics, and don’t forget

F E AT U R E S

Moving Up? INCREASE YOUR MOBILITY As a caregiver, it is important to ensure that you are cared for as well. to ask your community to help you out. Yes, the Torah instructs us to honor our parents, but it is also important and imperative that we respect and honor ourselves as well. As the Torah says in Deuteronomy 4:15: “And you shall greatly guard your lives…” Remember to take care of yourself. A

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CARING FOR ELDERS Vital information and possible support services for the elderly can be obtained by contacting your local county office of senior services or elder affairs as well as your local social service department. Area adult daycare centers may also provide information on resources for the elderly in your area. These numbers can be located in the governmental pages of the phone book or through a web query. Here are just a few to get you started. AARP | (800) 424-3410 | www.aarp.org AARP supplies information about caregiving, long-term care and aging, including publications and audio-visual aids for caregivers. AGIS Network | (866) 511-9186 | www.agis.com AGIS.com provides education, support, expert advice, local resources and a vibrant community for caregivers and families of the elderly. National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (800) 677-1116 | www.n4a.org | www.eldercare.gov Eldercare Locator provides referrals to Area Agencies on Aging via zip code locations. The National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers (520) 881-8008 | www.caremanager.org This national organization will refer family caregivers to their state chapters, which in turn can provide the names of Geriatric Care Managers in your area. U.S. Administration on Aging | (202) 619-0724 | www.aoa.gov The Administration on Aging is the official federal agency dedicated to the delivery of supportive home and communitybased services to older individuals and their caregivers.

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out&about MICHELLE CHAMUEL

Contestant on season four of “The Voice” Michelle Chamuel will be performing at The Constellation Room in the Observatory in Santa Ana on Sunday Dec. 6. Chamuel’s parents were Jewish refugees from Egypt in the 1960s who settled in Amherst, Mass. She was the lead singer of a band named Ella Riot, which she helped form while studying at the University of Michigan. Her cover of a Taylor Swift song peaked at #4 on the iTunes charts.

TYRONE WELLS THE ATARIS Wells launched his solo career playing acoustic shows in Orange County. Wells will be playing at the Coach House Concert Hall on December 5. He released his solo album “Remain” on January 27, 2009. The second single “Sink or Swim” was used in promos for the season 6 premiere of “Grey’s Anatomy.”

Alternative rock band Ataris will be playing at the House Of Blues Anaheim on December 9. They have released five studio albums, with the 2003 album “So Long, Astoria” going certified gold. The band’s was discovered by Joe Escalante, bassist from the band The Vandals, owner of the Vandals’ label, Kung Fu Records, in 1996.

FLEETWOOD MAC

Multi Grammy-winning and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees Fleetwood Mac will be playing at the Honda Center December 7. The latest tour also marks the thirty-fifth anniversary of the release of their classic “Rumours” album (1977), one of the most successful albums in recorded history with sales exceeding 40 million copies.

STEVE OLIVER Oliver struck out on his own in 1999 with his debut, “First View,” released by Night Vision Records. The album spawned three hit singles on smooth jazz radio and earned the guitarist a Debut Artist of the Year award from Smooth Jazz News. Steve will be playing on December 28 at Spaghettini in Seal Beach.

ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE | December 2014

December glows with the festival of lights, reminding us of joyous miracles that come with times spent with family and friends during the holiday season. Enjoy these great events happening around Orange County.

Cinema Orange Join the Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) on Thursday, December 4 at 8 p.m. for a screening of “Tony DeLap: A Unique Perspective.” Directed by Dale Schierholt. (2014, Documentary, 60 minutes) DeLap will be on site for a book signing from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and a Q&A with Director Schierholt will follow the screening. Free with museum admission.

The Celtic Consort of Hollywood Laguna Beach Live’s! Live! at the Museum series welcomes The Celtic Consort of Hollywood on Thursday, Dec. 11. The group consists of soprano Christina Linhardt, Susan Craig Winsberg on flutes/ recorders and Shawna Selin on harp.

partnered with Laguna Beach Live!, which is an organization that works to bring performances by top-level, professional musicians to the Laguna Beach community. The concerts take place the second Thursday of each month from 7 to 8 p.m. and are included with museum admission (members free; nonmembers $5 or $7).

Striking 12 Laguna Beach Playhouse presents Striking 12, a unique hybrid of poprock, musical comedy and live concert, all in one production, from December 3 through December 28. This musical tells the story of a grumpy, overworked New Yorker whose resolve to spend

New Year’s Eve alone in his apartment crumbles when an unexpected visitor brings some muchneeded cheer.

Orange County Center for the Performing Arts Savor two giant works of the repertoire on December 11 through 13 at 8 p.m., when the Pacific Symphony welcomes guest composer Alain Lefèvre performing Beethoven’s masterful rhythmic symphony and Rachmaninoff’s enduringly popular piano concerto.

Judy Collins Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall welcomes Grammywinning singer/songwriter Judy Collins on December

6. Collins has captivated audiences worldwide with her silvery soprano and eclectic musical tastes.

Dixie’s Tupperware Party The Samueli Theater presents Dixie’s Tupperware Party Dec. 9 through 21. This is an outrageous evening filled with colorful stories, audience participation and the most fabulous assortment of Tupperware ever sold on a stage as fast-talking floozy Dixie Longate—the redheaded vixen with three kids and an arrest record—presents Dixie’s Tupperware Party. There are a limited number of on-stage seats available for each performance. Judy Collins

Laguna Beach Live’s! Live! at the Museum is an ongoing series of early-evening concerts in the museum’s galleries, a feast of sight and sound. In presenting the series, Laguna Art Museum has

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BOOK REVIEW

Author Ari Shavit.

MY PROMISED LAND JCC brings an eye-opening perspective of Israel to the OC. BY LISA GRAJEWSKI, PSY.D.

ONLY AN ISRAELI could exude the passion and heartrending sensitivity of Israel’s controversial history. Ari Shavit, author of My Promised Land: The Triumph and Tragedy of Israel, is brutally honest in his depiction of Israel—from his perspective. In prose that often reads like a novel, he interchanges past and present with the elegance of a ballet danc48 DECEMBER 2014 |

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er, telling the story of the country of his birth. Shavit’s book has made the New York Time’s Bestseller list and received the Natan Book Award, the National Jewish Book Award, and the Anisfield-Wolf Book Award. It is an honest depiction of a tumultuous history, and is a book that is often difficult to read—not because of its semantics, but because of the

raw emotion that leaks through the pages. We meet Israel through Shavit’s greatgrandfather, a Zionist who travels to (then) Palestine from Britain and beholds the land of his forefathers. The book goes on to introduce us to other key figures: a Jaffa orange farmer and survivors of the Holocaust who bring their families to Israel to recreate their lives and raise the future leaders of Israel. We also meet an engineer involved in Israel’s nuclear program and club crawlers in Tel Aviv’s nightclubs—the “everydayness” of Israel. But what appears normal and mundane is just a façade—Israel is rife with conflict, heartbreak and turmoil. Yet despite that, it is Israel—our Israel. Shavit presented his book at the Merage Jewish Community Center’s One Book— Jewish OC Reads on November 23. Part of November’s OC Jewish Art’s Festival, the presentation was attended by a packed crowd and offered the sale of Shavit’s book to the public. Shavit is as articulate in person as he is on paper and held the audience captive with his explanation and reasoning for his bestselling book. My Promised Land is a must-read for anyone hoping to understand the Israel of today. It will open your eyes to a history pulled from the heart of a Sabra and reminds us of why we hold so dearly to its claim. Yes, Israel is our country, but she has passed through the hearts, hands and minds of many before us. Israel is a survivor; she has been brought through neglect, abuse and violence—and like a survivor she has proven to be resilient and strong despite the adversity. A Dr. Lisa Grajewski is a psychologist working toward licensure. She is a therapist with Jewish Federation Family Services and is a psychological assistant for a private practice in Tustin. Dr. Grajewski has been writing for JLife Magazine since 2004.

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PHOTO BY ISOBEL WIELD

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50 DECEMBER 2014 |

Sweet treats to help celebrate.

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Chanukah food is the BEST food.

PHOTO BY JOSH MONKEN

Because sugar was rare and expensive, doughnuts at the time were savory with meat, fish or cheese fillings.

FRY ME A LATKE

Latkes, doughnuts – for Chanukah it’s all about the oil. BY JUDY BART KANCIGOR WHO KNEW THAT when Judah Maccabee’s tiny flask of oil miraculously burned for eight days it would set off a frying frenzy that would last for thousands of years? Here in America, Chanukah wouldn’t be Chanukah without latkes, but in Israel, jelly doughnuts (sufganiyot) are as popular as latkes are here, with almost every bakery making them and every community of Israel’s diverse population enjoying them. The first recorded recipe for jelly doughnuts may be found in the 1532 Polish translation of a German cookbook, one of

the first cookbooks printed by Gutenberg’s press, according to rabbi and food historian Gil Marx, author of the “Encyclopedia of Jewish Food” (Wiley, $40). “This early version consisted of a bit of jam sandwiched between two rounds of yeast bread dough and deep-fried in lard,” he writes. “Whether the anonymous author actually invented the idea or recounted a new practice, the concept of filling a doughnut with jam spread across the globe.” Because sugar was rare and expensive, doughnuts at the time were savory with

meat, fish or cheese fillings or the like. The growth of Caribbean sugar plantations in the sixteenth century brought lower sugar prices, and sugar and fruit preserves became popular fillings. The invention of a metal pastry syringe and, later, machinery to inject the doughnuts helped to further popularize the treat. For Polish Jews, schmaltz or oil replaced the lard, and these doughnuts (called ponchiks) became associated with Chanukah. Polish Jews who immigrated to Israel brought them with them along with the practice of enjoying them for the holiday. “In Israel, however, ponchiks soon took the name sufganiyot, from a ‘spongy dough’ mentioned in the Talmud,” says Marx. “The word for sponge is so ancient that there is a question as to whether it was initially of Semitic or Indo-European origin.” But how did sufganiyot supplant latkes as the official Israeli Chanukah dish? Leave it to the trade unions, which in the late 1920’s promoted sufganiyot over latkes because anybody could make latkes, but the preparation of sufganiyot required more skill, “thereby providing work (preparing, transporting, and selling the doughnuts) for its members,” notes Marx. “Companies began turning out the doughnuts days or even weeks before Chanukah, stretching both the amount of work and the period of enjoyment for eating them, although there are those who insist on waiting to eat one until after lighting the first candle. Sufganiyot subsequently emerged as by far the most popular Israeli Chanukah food.” “No matter how many commercial doughnuts you have enjoyed in your life, nothing compares to homemade doughnuts,” says Paula Shoyer, author of “The Holiday Kosher Baker” (Sterling, $35). Shoyer showcases traditional desserts with a distinctively modern twist with clear, detailed directions and lavish color photos. Along with updated sponge cakes, blintzes, babkas, challahs and rugelach, you’ll find

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“No matter how many commercial doughnuts you have enjoyed in your life, nothing compares to homemade doughnuts,” – PAULA SHOYER

a chic Raspberry and Rose Macaron Cake, a Salted Caramel Banana Tart Tatin, and recipes for low-sugar, gluten free, vegan, and nut-free treats. But for Chanukah, it’s all about the oil. “The use of olive oil in cakes dates back further than the Chanukah story itself,” says Shoyer. “Olive oil was used in baked offerings at the Temple.”

Pumpkin Doughnuts Yield: 15 For a healthier doughnut, bake them for 20 minutes in a preheated 350°F oven. 1/4 ounce (one envelope) dry yeast 1/4 cup warm water 1/4 cup plus 1 teaspoon sugar, divided 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed 1/3 cup soy milk 2 tablespoons margarine, at room temperature for at least 15 minutes 1 large egg 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 3 to 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting Canola oil for frying 1/4 cup confectioner’s sugar, for dusting

1 In large bowl, stir together yeast, warm water and 1 teaspoon sugar. Reserve 10 minutes, or until thick. Add remaining sugar, brown sugar, soy milk, margarine, egg, pumpkin puree, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla and 2 cups flour; mix on low speed with a dough hook on stand mixer or with wooden spoon. Add another cup flour and mix well. Add more flour, a tablespoon at a

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time, and mix until dough becomes smooth, scraping down sides of bowl each time before adding more flour.

2 Cover dough with clean dish towel; let

rise 1 hour in warm place (use a warming drawer on low setting, or turn oven on to lowest setting, wait until it reaches that temperature, place bowl in oven and then turn off oven.)

3 Punch down dough by folding it over a few times and reshaping into a ball. Re-cover dough; let rise 10 minutes.

4 Dust cookie sheet with flour. Sprinkle

counter or parchment paper with flour; roll dough out until about 1/2-inch thick. Using 2 1/2-inch round cookie cutter or drinking glass, cut out circles and place on prepared cookie sheet. Reroll any scraps. Cover doughnuts with towel. Place cookie sheet back in oven (warm, but turned off) or warming drawer. Let doughnuts rise 45 minutes.

5 Heat 1 1/2 inches oil in medium saucepan to between 365 and 375 degrees on candy thermometer; adjust heat to maintain temperature. 6 Cover cookie sheet with foil and place wire rack on top. Set it near your stovetop. Gently slide no more than four doughnuts, top side down, into the oil, and fry 1 1/2 minutes. Turn doughnuts over and cook another 1 1/2 minutes. Remove with slotted spoon, letting excess oil drip off, and place on the wire rack to cool. Repeat for remaining doughnuts. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve. Store covered at room temperature for up to 1 day. Reheat to serve.

Almond and Olive Oil Cake Yield: 8-12 servings “This is a super-easy teatime cake that reminds me of simple cakes I have eaten in Italy,” says Shoyer. “If you are feeling decadent, serve this with whipped cream.”

3/4 cup sliced almonds (with or without skins) 1 cup sugar 3 large eggs 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup ground almonds 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon almond extract 1/2 teaspoon orange zest (from one orange) Spray oil containing flour (such as Bakers Joy)

1 Preheat oven to 350°F. Trace 8-inch round pan on parchment paper and cut it out with scissors. Grease and flour pan, press in parchment circle; and grease and flour top of parchment and sides of pan. Sprinkle sliced almonds on bottom of pan to cover it.

2 In medium bowl, beat sugar, eggs, and olive oil about 1 minute at medium speed until creamy. Add flour, ground almonds, baking powder, salt, almond extract, and orange zest; beat until combined. Pour mixture over sliced nuts. Bake 35 minutes, or until skewer inserted in middle of cake comes out clean. 3 Let cake cool in pan 10 minutes; run knife around sides. Turn cake onto wire rack and let cool. Serve cake almond side up. Store covered at room temperature up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months. Source: “The Holiday Kosher Baker” by Paula Shoyer Jlife Food Editor Judy Bart Kancigor is the author of “Cooking Jewish” (Workman) and “The Perfect Passover Cookbook” (an e-book short from Workman), a columnist and feature writer for the Orange County Register and other publications and can be found on the web at www.cookingjewish.com.

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Let the baking commence!

POUNDS OF DOUGH A Mega Challah Bake in OC BY ROBIN DAVIS, PH.D.

EIGHT HUNDRED WOMEN entered the gates of TVT/JCC Basketball court asking this question: “What is a mega challah bake?” They had heard about it and signed up, and the mystery continued until they made it through the gate. As soon as they walked in, it started to become clear. The colorful, long rows of tables with brightly colored bowls, complete with challah kits and chairs wrapped in shocking pink Challah Bake aprons, hinted that a festive drama was about to unfold. The large stage with two huge monitors, music from loudspeakers, a complete Shabbos table and bright balloons brought it home...this is going to be Mega! 54 DECEMBER 2014 |

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A little more than two months prior, a grassroots group of fourteen women from all affiliations committed to make Orange County part of the international Shabbos Project of 2014. This consortium of women, with and without sheitles, long sleeves and flip flops contacted every shul and every Jewish organization in Orange County. At first, the goal was 300, and two months later, 800 women had committed to attending. A miracle? In 2013, the Shabbos Project Keeping it Together was born in South Africa. The Challah Bake brought 3,000 women to the streets of Johannesburg. In 2014, its manifesto was to bring together Jews of all walks of life, of every age and from all corners of the world—uniting to experience one

complete Shabbat Together. Its motto is ‘One People One Heart and One Shabbat.” From Australia to Russia, from China to Argentina, from Italy to Canada and 27 countries in between, Jews were united in Shabbos and Challah. The Keynote speaker in Orange County was Sara Briman, who came to us from Mexico. Her challah won the American Academy of Hospitality Science’s Five-Star Diamond Award in 2013. Before she demonstrated her award-winning recipe, she explained that the secret behind a good challah is not the pastry, but the prayer behind each ingredient. As she spoke her inspirational words, the deeper, shared spiritual experience began. Soon everyone was layering and mixing their ingredients. But the kneading really brought everyone together: “Check my dough, is it all right?” Soon various kneading techniques were buzzing at every table. Our OC was en masse, united with international communal kneading and prayer. The courtyard was aglow with a feeling of sisterhood and belonging to something bigger. It was an inspirational evening. The multimedia program with videos and song was uplifting. Prayers by Rebetzen Natalie Ciner and a special story from Gilah Andrusier marked high notes. Cantors Sue Knight Deutsch and Natalie Young and cantorial soloist Jenna Fagan raised the roof. The OC Mega Challah Bake brought deep connection, joy, sisterhood, prayer and unity to our community. It started with a question. It ended as an unforgettable miracle. See you in 2015. A

Robin Mintzer Davis, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist in private practice in Newport Beach. She is Co-Director of the Los Angeles Attachment Study Group and Master Teacher and Researcher in Guided Autobiography.

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TO TREE OR NOT TO TREE Shark Tank takes a bite at an age-old question. BY TANYA SCHWIED

Morri Chowaiki makes a splash on “Shark Tank.”

LAST YEAR AROUND this time an episode from the hit ABC show “Shark Tank” aired where Morri Chowaiki was one of the contestants who brought his own patented Hannukkah Tree Topper—a Star of David “menorahment” that sits atop the family Christmas tree. The stage was set…the doors flung open… and in walks an unassuming nerdy guy with horn-rimmed glasses, wearing a blue Santa Claus hat, and a smile from ear to ear. He steps up to the carpet and boldly says, “Hello, gefilte Sharks.” For the next 40 minutes, he explains how he is going to “bridge the gap between ho ho ho and dreidel, dreidel, dreidel” by selling 58 DECEMBER 2014 |

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Star of David tree toppers to Interfaith families. After four of the Sharks (judges on the show) turned him down, this little dreidel that could was still standing and Daymond John said he wanted to take a gamble on him with $50,000 for 35 percent of the Tree Topper business. The suspense was high, and after some seriously long silence (the way only ABC knows how), Morri replied with a gesture—placing the mistletoe on top of his head and saying “Kiss me.” This was sure to be the beginning of a beautiful friendship. He and his wife Marina were surprised an item like this wasn’t already on the market, with close to 6 million Jewish people living in

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the USA and interfaith marriages on the rise. According to a national survey, 47 percent of Jewish marriages between 1996 and 2001 were interfaith. The Chowaikis’ mission was simple: “To bring Judaism into Interfaith homes during the holidays like we did in our own house.” Chowaiki, who has a background in marketing, cites the near 50 percent intermarriage rate of the year 2000 National Jewish Population Study in estimating the potential audience for his topper at “between 500,000 and 1 million households.” Morri was raised as a Jew and celebrates Chanukah; his wife Marina was raised in an interfaith family that celebrates Christmas. Today, they fill their Rancho Peñasquitos home with the trappings of both holidays. The melding of Christmas and Chanukah—two completely different religious holidays that have nothing to do with one another historically— is common among interfaith couples. The mishmash of dreidels and Santa, latkes and fruitcake, create a rich, if strange, multicultural experience. In my own house, my mother identified as Christian and my father as Jewish, so we always just celebrated both. I was envied by all the kids at school—double presents! Now as I’m getting older I’m starting to think about what I would want for my own kids. I would have loved having something like this in our home; how special for my mother and father to explain the importance and meanings of both holidays to my sisters and me. But does mixing the two dilute the meaning and significance of each holiday? After all, the religious expression of Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus and Christianity. Chanukah commemorates the Jewish recapture of the Temple in Jerusalem in 164 BCE and the endurance of faith in the face of tyranny. Nevertheless, many interfaith couples see the mixed celebration of Christmas and Chanukah as an expression of love and respect for their spouse. For the Chowaiki family, a Christmas tree isn’t a Christmas tree without a Star of David on top. “I’ve always loved the spirit of Christmas and thought it was beautiful, not for the birth of Christ, but it’s just a beautiful holiday,” Morri Chowaiki said. Some experts on interfaith marriages view the mixing as a testament to how much more integrated American society has grown over the past several decades. Families who celebrate

both offer a modern view of the nation as a melting pot, they say. “Chrismukkah” has even gone mainstream with a reference in the hit TV show, “The OC,”” where one of the main characters describes it as ‘the greatest superholiday known to mankind drawing on the best that Christianity and Judaism has to offer.” With the help of Daymond and Shark Branding, Chanukah Tree Topper has successfully licensed its trademark and patent to the Kurt S. Adler Company, the largest licensing and importing wholesaler of holiday goods in the United States. Through the Shark Branding team’s knowledge of digital marketing and search engine optimization, they prepared Morri and Chanukah Tree Topper to take advantage of 7 to 8 million unique viewers upon its Shark Tank episode airing. Taking this hybrid approach allowed Chanukah Tree Topper to optimize both its physical and digital points of sale. The results: Chanukah Tree Topper is now sold at some of the world’s largest retailers, such as Bed, Bath & Beyond and Toys R Us. 2014 retail sales are projected to grow 150 percent from last year. The Chanukah Tree Topper has become among the most recognizable brands within the holiday décor category. “We’ve received tons of positive feedback and hundreds of photos of people’s trees on our Facebook page with their star on top,” Chowaiki said. He added that “for people who want to celebrate Christmas with a tree, stockings, gifts, lights and the like, and have someone Jewish in the home, the tree topper gives those people an opportunity to have their culture represented as well in a beautiful and meaningful way.” Do I know what’s right or wrong? No. Do I think respect and tolerance for one another are good? Yes. I know there are plenty of mixed feelings on the subject, and I think we all have a right to choose what we put in our homes and teach our children. What feels right to us might not be for our neighbor, but good on you, Morri Chowaiki, for giving us the option. A Tanya Schwied graduated from New York University, studied abroad in Israel, and currently works for the CEO and President of Jewish Federation & Family Services.

The tree topper gives those people an opportunity to have their culture represented as well in a beautiful and meaningful way. Jlife

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News&Jews OC JEWISH SCENE | DECEMBER 2014

TVT Grows Advanced Placement (AP) Scholars Forty-eight students from TVT received the designation of AP Scholars in 2014; twenty-two of them received the highest recognition of AP Scholar with Distinction. According to Jonathan Rastello, TVT’s Director of College Counseling, this allows students to waive general education requirements by the time they get to college. Four TVT Students were National AP Scholars: Roy Elzur and Jacob Steinberg (Class of ’14) and Aaron Berdy and Benjamin Gillman (current seniors at TVT). For a list of TVT Scholars, go to www.ocjewishlife.com. Tarbut V’Torah’s new playspace was dedicated November 5.

L’Dor Vador– Cantors in Concert

TVT Dedicates New Playspace

On Sunday, January 4, 2015, Temple Beth El of South Orange County will host a fantastic cantorial concert featuring the incredible talents of cantors, cantorial soloists and adult choirs. For more information including prices please contact Amy Packer (949) 495-9638 and for online reservations please visit: tbesoc.org.

TVT Community Day School dedicated a new outdoor playspace on November 5. The outdoor play area features various segments, which are divided into places that have motifs of the geographic areas of Israel. Dr. Jeffrey Davis announced the winning name of the playspace (Israel Discovery Park) and Irving [Papa] Gelman cut the official ribbon opening the park.

Hadassah Fundraiser for Youth Aliyah Hadassah supports three youth Aliyah Villages in Israel to care for children at risk. Each village houses, educates, counsels and teaches many skills that prepare residents for independent lives after graduation, or to go back to their families when ready. These villages also act as a temporary shelter to any families whose homes are at risk during crisis. This event is our “All Games Day,” celebrating Hanukkah with lunch and prizes and offering Mah Jong, Bridge, Canasta, Pan, Rummy Cube, and more. The cost is $18.00. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. and reservations are necessary. The event will take place on Monday, December 15 at Clubhouse #6 in Laguna Woods. For more information, call Sharon at (949) 586-3226 or Anita at (949) 587-1516. 62 DECEMBER 2014 |

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News&Jews Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Awards Call For Nominations The Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Awards is seeking nominations of Jewish teens with exceptional community service/ social change projects that embody the value of tikkun olam, repairing the world. The Helen Diller Family Foundation will recognize up to 15 recipients for its 2015 Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Awards with $36,000 each. Community members can nominate young leaders now through December 14, 2014 using a simple online form on www.DillerTeenAwards. org. All Jewish teen volunteers who are 13 to 19 years old at the time of nomination are eligible.

Hadassah Annual Book and Author Luncheon Laguna Hills/Saddleback Hadassah will present their Annual Book and Author Luncheon featuring Maggie Anton reviewing her latest novel in the Rav Hista Daughters series, “Enchantress: A Novel of Rav Hisda’s Daughter,” on Monday, November 24, in Laguna Woods, Clubhouse #6. Call Sharon to RSVP at (949) 586-3226.

Temple Beth Sholom Sisterhood Wins Kretzer Kavod Award The Sisterhood of Temple Beth Sholom was awarded the prestigious Eleanor Kretzer Kavod Award, honoring cuttingedge, innovative programming, at the Pacific District Convention of the Women of Reform Judaism in Pasadena on October 26. Stacy Nagel, President of the TBS Sisterhood, said, “The award was presented for our Junior Sisterhood Program, a dynamic, multi-generational group consisting of second through twelfth-grade TBS girls and their adult Sisterhood sponsors (mothers, grandmothers and aunts). Programs are designed to create stronger bonds between the generations and to instill a sense of tzedakah and tikkun olam.”

South Coast Bloomingdales Has Judaic Jewelry! Alef Bet Jewelry, a Judaic and faith-based jewelry company, hosted a show at Bloomingdale’s in South Coast Plaza on November 14, 15, and 16. Alef Bet Jewelry offers jewelry fabricated in sterling silver and 14k gold and depicts Jewish motifs such as hamsa, Shema prayers, and Stars of David. The company is a mother-and-daughter-owned company—both Paula Brooks and Alissa Haroush have been designing and manufacturing Judaic and faith-based jewelry since 1996. Jlife

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ORANGE COUNTY’S JEWISH HISTORY First Bris in Anaheim—in 1876

BLOGOSPHERE Jlife wants to acknowledge some of the interesting blogs related to the Jewish community. Enjoy!

BY DALIA TAFT

It was common practice in the late 1800s and early 1900s for Orange County and L.A. newspapers to announce Jewish life cycle and social events. Examples include Joseph Goldsmith’s bar mitzvah (Santa Ana, Sept. 13, 1892), Adelle Mendelson’s wedding (San Juan Capistrano, March 5, 1895), Stanley Reinhaus’ college graduation (Santa Ana, December 23, 1911), and even circumcisions. The first bris announcement we know of was printed March 9, 1876 on the front page of the Los Angeles Daily Herald, for Manny Solomon, the son of Goodman and Flora Mendelsohn. It’s interesting to note that the Hebrew words “mohel” and “bris mila” are used. Just one year later, in the announcement for Marshall Louis Wartenberg’s son Michael, the bris is a “rite of circumcision,” and the rabbi has become a “reverend.” Almost two years to the day, on March 16, 1878, a bris is still front page news. This time it’s for Leon Aaron, Manny’s first cousin and son of Morris and Henrietta Mendelsohn. Photo: Los Angeles Daily Herald, March 9, 1876.

Dalia Taft, archivist of the Orange County Jewish Historical Society, a Connect 2 People Initiative of Jewish Federation & Family Services, highlights images from the archives every month. For more information, please visit www.jewishorangecounty.org/historical. You can also contact Dalia at historical@jffs.org or at (949) 435-3484, ext. 167. 64 DECEMBER 2014 |

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CHANUKAH ACTIVITIES How to celebrate the Festival of Lights with your family and not burn the house down. Filled with fire, fried foods, games, and presents, it’s a kid’s dream. Here are some activities with spinning tops and potatoes to get you started on this year’s celebration. www.kveller.com CHANUKAH RECIPES, HISTORY AND MORE Welcome to the Ultimate Chanukah Guide! PBS has a great resource to help celebrate the festival of lights for all eight nights. There are delicious Jewish recipes, stories of Chanukah from across America and all kinds of other delights. www.pbs.org/food/Chanukah/ CELEBRITIES WHO CELEBRATE CHANUKAH Although it is not the most talked about topic in the tabloids, there are quite a few big-name celebrities who celebrate Chanukah. www.judaism.answers.com

We would look great on your coffee table.

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ROUND Encore CarTWO eers After Ret irement THE NEW OF SEN PULSE IOR A Fresh LIFE Today and Tom orrow

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| DECEMBER 2014 65

LIFESTYLE

LAUGHING IT OFF IN ORANGE COUNTY

The True Meaning of Chanukah Dear N.: We want our house to look perfect this holiday season. From the strings of lights in our trees, to the lawn display—three Middle Eastern guys with a camel—our goal is to convey the true meaning of Chanukah. But we hope you can settle an argument for us. We’re looking for an ornament to top off our Chanukah bush. What would be more appropriate—a stone figurine of Moses carrying the Tablets (made from real Italian marble!), or a Lalique crystal Star of David? — Chanukah Fanatics Dear Fanatics: Oh dear. This won’t do at all. You have turned Chanukah into an ecumenical event, adapting the practices of our non-Jewish neighbors while preserving the Jewish iconography of the holiday.

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Your observance brings together modern American customs and traditional Jewish practice to form a unique, inclusive celebration that reflects both the society in which we live and the ancient Tribe to which we belong. Clearly, you don’t know the first thing about Chanukah. Some history: Judah Maccabee killed a vast number of Hellenists, so naturally we wrote songs about him and invited our friends over for latkes and some intensely competitive dreidl. Look, it was 165 BCE: there weren’t a hell of a lot of reasons to party. So it’s hardly surprising that we would tacitly agree to overlook the slightly awkward fact that these Hellenists were actually fellow Jews. What was it like to live in the early Hasmonean period? Well, as a twenty-first century analogy, let’s say you belong to a Reform

synagogue. One day, without should be given the first aliyah? warning and right in the middle In fact, after a while, you choose of the Katz bat mitzva, a horde to look on the whole affair as a of rampaging Conservatives good thing. Traditional Judaism from the shul around the corner triumphed! The Reform vastly (ironically named “Beth Shalom”) outnumbered the Conservatives, rush in and put your clergy and but the latter were two-thirds of victorious due to the building the strength of WE’RE committee to their belief (and LOOKING the sword. Not the ferocity of FOR AN only is your their firepower). congregation ORNAMENT Surely God was s u d d e n l y on their side. TO TOP without spiritual Let the singing OFF OUR leadership, but and deep-frying CHANUKAH the construction commence! of your new BUSH. So, Fanatics, social hall has to whichever shrub be indefinitely topper you postponed. select, I hope you enjoy your The Conservatives are well-armed hippie celebration of harmonious and committed to the cause. coexistence. While you still can. They’ve vowed not to stop the — N. Troyer carnage until your temple has been “rededicated,” your heretical siddurim stripped of their godless N. Troyer recommends that you gender-neutral language. Your leave a copy of this publication fellow congregants see which way under the Chanukah bush for each member of your family. And the wind is blowing. Do you also that you think twice before resist, or maybe, just maybe, do accepting that position on the you accept that only a Kohen building committee.

LIFESTYLE

How can you resist?

THE CHANUKAH CREEP Chanukah goodies are available earlier and earlier. BY MERAV CEREN

THE BEST DONUT you will ever have isn’t a donut at all. Traditionally, a few weeks before Chanukah begins, Israelis stroll down to their local Roladin with the fervor of SoCal foodies with a new obsession. Roladin is a pastry shop about equivalent to Corner Bakery—it’s a national chain with a shop in most major cities, but there are other, similar options. However, at Roladin, and only Roladin, you find about a dozen different incredible concoctions known as the

Chanukah sufganiot. It is similar to a donut in that it is a fried ball of dough. But Roladin sufganiot are filled with anything from crème brûlée custard (complete with a small, delicate glass pane of sugar atop the pastry) to Belgian chocolate. Roladin has dubbed this time Sufganiot Season, and the entire country looks forward to it. This year, however, we experienced our version of the “Christmas creep.” Whereas Americans may buy candy canes or pepper-

mint bark earlier each year, Israelis in major cities could already pick up one of the basic famous sufganiot as early as mid-September. Four months early. The High Holidays hadn’t begun! Twitter and social media outlets were abuzz with both approvals and censures. This “Chanukah creep,” some argued, was only due to Roladin’s desire to increase revenue. Well, yes, I imagine so. It is, after all, a business. However, the bakery didn’t entirely disregard the sanctity of its pastries. It waited until November to release sufganiot in all branches and saved the fancier flavors—which come with little plastic pipettes of extra filling—for the holiday season itself. I imagine the underlying frustration with making any available early lies mainly with the idea that Chanukah is a special time of year, and we should preserve it. As with any other Jewish holiday, Chanukah has a different feel here in Israel. It’s not what you’re doing at home, in your private life. It’s a public festival that allows for a bit of time off work, evenings with extended family, and a general sense of cheer in the street. Coming together with family and friends means warm drinks and fried foods, a sense of belonging. Even a game of dreidel reinforces the idea that you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be, as the letters carved into the surface tell a different story than those elsewhere. An Israeli dreidel has letters that stand for “nes gadol ha’ya po”—a great miracle happened here. A Merav Ceren was born in Israel, grew up in Southern California, and has now returned home. She holds a B.A. in International Relations from UCI, where she led the re-establishment of Anteaters for Israel, and is pursuing her Master’s in International Relations from Syracuse University.

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LIFESTYLE

Sexy Little Beasties!

JEWISH SWAG Getting Cozy With GeltFiend Creator, Carin Agiman BY DVORAH LEWIS

EVERY YEAR CHANUKAH lasts a short eight nights while Christmas seems to last for months—did you ever feel like something was missing around this time of year? You are not alone. This feeling helped inspire Carin Agiman to create GeltFiend, a company founded in 2012 after a Kickstarter campaign. “Growing up, Chanukah wasn’t that fun. You see these lights and they’re beautiful, and you 68 DECEMBER 2014 |

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see these trees and they’re beautiful. And you see Santa talking to all of these kids. It’s all so mesmerizing. Giving people something colorful and vibrant that they can identify with and connect with is important...We need a good PR campaign.” And that campaign comes in the form of Chanukah sweaters. Agiman’s designs aren’t like the Christmas sweaters you’d see Bill Cosby wearing. And

none of them follow the standard blue and white colors of Chanukah. “When you look at old-fashioned Chanukah decorations they were all different colors, but somehow we got pigeonholed.” Agiman is able to balance kitschy and fun while making her customers look and feel good. The fun spreads over into the website, the photo shoots and the videos. You’ll even find a cute story, telling of Santa’s first Chanukah. Every blurb on the site is bound to make you chuckle. The designs vary from patterns of dreidels to an image of an orthodox snow family: “I always have a huge smile on my face when people buy [this one] because it’s a little ballsier,” Agiman said. The most popular design is “Spinmaster,” but that isn’t saying much because all of these designs sell out fast! And celebrities are reported to wear these sweaters too—actress Mayim Bialik and filmmaker Tiffany Shlain, to name a couple. GeltFiend doesn’t just make sweaters. On the site you’ll find bow-ties, hats, scarves, and the newest addition this year, onesies! And maybe next year pajama pants! When asked if she’d consider a summer line since SoCal is mostly hot, Agiman answered, “It’s one of those things that has to feel right. I know there’s a lot of places where cool Jewish products are missing...but it has to be something I really identify with.” For now, she just wants to keep seeing people from all walks of life “using GeltFiend as a way to bring themselves closer together and bridge that culture gap.” If you want to get Bubbe and Zayda these fun sweaters for Chanukah—while you’re at it get one for the yourself too—go to www.geltfiend.com and order them online. Join Jews everywhere and come out of the closet this holiday season in your GeltFiend Chanukah sweaters! A

Dvorah Lewis is pursuing her Master’s in Library & Information Science with a specialization in Archival Studies at the University of California, Los Angeles.

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LIFESTYLE

Menurkey creator Asher Weintraub.

How did you finance the Menurkey? I introduced Asher to Kickstarter, and he nagged me about using the platform to gain capital. We made a video, created the campaign page and started a social media campaign. What’s life like a year later, having received Presidential recognition? Life’s the same, with the addition of a menorah company under our belt. Luckily, none of this went to his head. He’s just living the life of a fifth-grader. What did you learn about the Jewish community? Was everybody receptive to combining Jewish and secular holidays? Rather than getting slammed by those who might’ve thought the Menurkey to be sacrilegious, we learned that people were open to new ideas. Our boys learned how generous the Jewish community is, and how much they value charity. There were naysayers, but overall it was a unifier rather than a divider.

GOBBLE-GOBBLE, MENORAH? An Interview With the Menurkey-Masterminds BY ADAM CHESTER

“THANKSGIVUKKAH,” LAST YEAR’S coexistence of Chanukah and Thanksgiving, inspired 9-year-old Asher Weintraub to create an innovative product that’s sold incredibly well and might even commemorate the 2013 phenomenon for generations to come. The Menurkey, Asher’s turkey-shaped menorah, took social media by storm and earned a visit to the White House, where President Obama honored Asher’s creativity. JLife interviewed Asher’s father, Anthony Weintraub, to find out more about the Menurkey-mastermind, and how a brilliant idea turned into a successful reality. 70 DECEMBER 2014 |

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Has Asher always been a creative kid, or was this a “light bulb” moment? Asher’s always been an idea man, constantly coming up with new concepts or ways to solve things. How did this become a reality? Many families dismiss their children’s ideas. When Asher heard of “Thanksgivukkah,” he said there should be a turkey-shaped menorah called a “Menurkey.” I put the onus on Asher to take it beyond the conceptual idea level. He designed it on a 3D-computer program. Then, a friend created a 3D-prototype, and we were on our way.

How has Judaism been instilled into the Menurkey project? Tikkun olam was one of Asher’s main inspirations when considering selling the Menurkey. He wanted to give back to those needing it most. We’ve given away somewhere just south of $15,000. Can we get a quote from Asher? “I loved seeing something I designed become a product people wanted. Getting to meet the President was awesome!” Asher, any future plans? “I have many, but I’m not telling anyone.” Purchase your Menurkey at menurkey.com. It isn’t only a collector’s item, its design exhibits true longevity. As a cool Thanksgiving centerpiece, and humorous Chanukah menorah, the Menurkey is bound to generate interesting conversations. The next “Thanksgivukkah” is estimated to occur in year 79811. Although none of us will be around to see it, the Weintraubs certainly hope the Menurkey will. A Adam Chester graduated from UCSD with a degree in Clinical Psychology and is the NextGen Outreach & Engagement Coordinator at JFFS.

LIFESTYLE

Lighting the candles is such a meditative and beautiful tradition.

WHAT IS CHANUKAH?

Those beautiful symbols are there for a reason. BY RABBI DAVID ELIEZRIE

IT IS A famous question in the Talmud, “What is Chanukah?” The Talmudic response is well known; the Greeks attempted to impose their pagan beliefs on the Jews, seizing the Holy Temple, the symbol of monotheism in the world. The Jews, led by the family of priests named the Maccabees, rebelled. After the victory they found one cruse of oil, and as the Talmud states, “a miracle happened, it burned for eight days instead of one.” Enough time to create a new supply. In modern times, we tend to view Chanukah in a societal prism. It is seen as a battle between freedom and oppression, good and bad, religious rights and those who would like to deny them. And of course the eight nights

are filled with candle lighting and Chanukah Gelt (Jewish tradition is not to give gifts, but Gelt-money. Children are encouraged to give some of it to charity.) But what is it really about? It was Menelous, a Hellenized Jew, installed as the High Priest, who offered a swine on the Altar in the Temple. He, along with many other Jews, had been drawn to the Hellenistic culture that had been imported to ancient Israel by Alexander the Great and his successors. It was a culture that worshiped body over spirit, and idols instead of G-d; it celebrated Greek language and culture instead of the sacred teachings of Torah. As much as it was a battle between Greeks and Jews, it was a civil

war between Jews allied with the Greeks and Jews loyal to their traditions. In essence, Chanukah was a conflict over ideas and values. In a sense that conflict continues today; however, there is no despotic king attempting to impose his pagan culture upon us. But we do live in a time when the cultural norms, some reflective of Jewish values and some not, overwhelm us. For a Jew who strives to place Jewish ideals center stage, it becomes a difficult balancing act. How do you find that middle ground? How do you navigate the balance between an overwhelming modern culture and the classic teachings of the Torah? There is one way—study Torah. Sadly the Jewish literacy of most adults is limited. Few can read a page of Talmud, decipher a line of the Torah in Hebrew, or peruse the Code of Jewish law with the commentaries. Most Jewish adults have a strange kind of juvenile rejection of Jewish learning. Hebrew school was decades ago and consisted of a rote-like preparation for Bar Mitzvah. Hebrew school is a nostalgic memory at best, not something intellectually rich, whose ideas have contemporary relevance. For generations, the great Jewish classics have remained ominous volumes filled with long pages of cryptic text. Today most of those works have been translated and are filled with study tools that help the novice open up the world of Jewish scholarship. No longer is Jewish learning relegated to the few and the elite. Our community is filled with Jewish learning opportunities. So, this Chanukah find out why the Jews really did revolt against the Greeks and discover how the ancient teachings of Torah can have relevance in your life. A Rabbi David Eliezrie is rabbi at Congregation Beth Meir HaCohen/Chabad. His email is rabbi@ocjewish.com.

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b li

hif

The

e o s G l R o e g h

so By fa J e w is h M ille n nial.

Boyfriend…and Holidays? If winter could describe my love life, it would have been a cold and gusty storm for years. Like many of us, I run from storms and look for shelter. As my readership knows, my mom has been internally dying for years now. My aunt even went as far to buy me a necklace in Tzfat; I cannot take it off until I am engaged. Oy! It’s been on me three years—and the Facebook-stalking to see if the necklace is in every picture is getting ridiculous. So, one could say I was a champ at this Jewish single thing. Now, I’m in pretty uncharted territory… How is it possible? I have a boyfriend! I have called my mother on multiple occasions to make sure she isn’t paying this man a great deal of money to date me. He promises the checks aren’t that big, so he’s staying with me out of love. Ha! However, this guy is an actual man, with an actual family. Exciting? Yes! Awkward? Yes! I mean, when it’s been a rainy day, I am used to curling up with my dog Willow and watching “Star Wars.” Who knew I’d find someone 72 DECEMBER 2014 |

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c Ra

to beautiful silver objects (or rose gold). If that isn’t the kicker, how about when the tree catches on fire? In elementary school, I made a wooden hanukkiyah. I lit my candles and walked away to play with my toys to later see my living room table on fire. Eek! However, a whole tree? My tiny condo couldn’t survive such devastation. But the real reason, pyrotechnics and Ashkenazi genetics aside, I cannot handle staring at a gift this man bought me for days—maybe even weeks. How could I not want to rip it open? It’s like something out of “Heart of Darkness”! The horror! The horror! As with most things in my life, I am admittedly a slow learner with these holiday problems. Planning a holiday with a new loved one, or even just trying to be a “we” instead of a “me,” is the best challenge I could have asked for this year. Despite all my quirks, all of my social abnormalities, I have someone that I get to spend this year’s winter holiday season with (hopefully more, but let us not scare the young chap!). What this really means is, I cannot wait to make a big snowball (because he is going to have to take me to the mountains at some point) and throw it at him when he is not looking. And what’s best is when he chases me… I’ll let him catch me. I’m learning that I love to be caught, even in the rain. Happy Chanukah!

I like our holiday ‘problems.’ They’re quite the Jewish conundrum.

who would not only like “Star Wars,” but would watch it in his Darth Vader mask with me. When I am sick, I do my ritual urgent care visit, trip to the market and pharmacy, call my mom, and then fall asleep (for three days). Now, it’s strange; this man actually wants to help me! Odd, right? He even cooks! I like our holiday “problems.” They’re quite the Jewish conundrum. “Rachel, my family is having their Chanukah party on (fill in date here). Please tell me that your family party isn’t the same day!” I already have my ugly Chanukah sweater picked out for the parties (It is not ugly at all. Thanks GeltFiend!) and I have had his Chanukah gift picked out since his birthday in July. Hey, there is nothing neurotic about that! I like to endearingly call it “thoughtful.” The coolest part about both of us being Jewish is the tree issue. First off, there is no dispute about getting a real menorah or a fake one. In addition, we know I’m allergic to everything. However, I am not allergic

RACHEL SCHIFF

is an English teacher who graduated from Cal State Fullerton. She was president of Hillel, a representative of World Union of Jewish Students and a YLD intern. Currently, she is a Master’s degree student in American Studies with emphasis on Jews in America.

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LIFESTYLE

On October 11, JewGlue, a program of Jewish Federation & Family Services, hosted 75 young adults at Mediterranean Nights! NextGen Cares took the new residents of Mandel House bowling on October 19th. The residents had a great time! For more information about JewGlue or NextGen Cares, please contact Stephanie Epstein at (949) 435-3484 or email nextgen@jffs.org. JYA SUSHI AND SAKE IN THE SUKKAH Tuesday, October 14 at Merage JCC We mingled in the Merage JCC’s beautiful Sukkah and Patio. JYA HAPPY HOUR: EUREKA! Tuesday, October 28 at Eureka! Irvine JYA enjoyed Happy Hour at Irvine’s brand-new Eureka. TOP LEFT: Shachar Paz, Jeremy Guzik and Gal Spivak TOP RIGHT: Tammt Zutler, Dana Goldberg and Susy Malca MIDDLE LEFT: Jessica Leanne and Ron Benporat MIDDLE RIGHT: Shadi Rafailzadeh BOTTOM RIGHT: Scott Timisit, Rachel Tichauer, David Neustaedter and Eitan Karni

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF JACKIE MENTER OF JEWISH FEDERATION & FAMILY SERVICES

Orange Jews

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LIFESTYLE 10:30 AM Drop-in Mah Jongg Merage JCC FRIDAYS 10:00 AM Men’s Club at the JCC Merage JCC

SENIORS

CALENDAR DECEMBER 2014 11:30 AM Drop-in Bridge Merage JCC

MONDAYS 9:00 AM Gentle Yogalates & Meditation Merage JCC

7:00 PM Drop-in Mah Jongg Merage JCC

10:00 AM News & Views Merage JCC 10:00 AM Tai Chi/ Jack Finkelstein Ezra AAFC

WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS 8:45 AM Gentle Yoga Merage JCC

10:30 AM (10:15 on Dec. 22 & 29) Stretching/Al Talberg Ezra AAFC

THURSDAYS 9:30 AM Keeping Fit/ Mel Grossman Ezra AAFC

10:30 AM The View for Women of All Ages Merage JCC

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10:30 AM The View for Women of All Ages Merage JCC

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MONDAY, DEC. 1 11:00 AM What’s Up/ Bob &Ruth Wilkoff Ezra AAFC TUESDAY, DEC. 2 NOON TO 2:00 PM Questions about Medicare Free HICAP Counseling By appt only call Geri at (949) 435-3400 x303 Merage JCC THURSDAY, DEC. 4 10:30 AM Honoring the Jews of Germany/ Cantor Sue Deutch Ezra AAFC MONDAY, DEC. 8 11:00 AM Twelve Keys for Healthy Aging/ Jon Burras Ezra AAFC TUESDAY, DEC. 9 7:00 PM Men’s Wine Tasting Merage JCC WEDNESDAY, DEC. 10 10:30- 11:30 AM Mindful Meditation Exercises to Benefit Mind Body & Soul Merage JCC WEDNESDAY, DEC. 10 & 26 11:00 AM “Writing for Reminiscences”/ Marilyn Silverstein Temple Beth Tikvah THURSDAY, DEC. 11 10:30 AM Topic to Announce/ Rabbi Spitz Ezra AAFC

MONDAY, DEC. 15 11:00 AM Stories and Music for Chanukah/ Karla Ober Ezra AAFC THURSDAY, DEC. 18 10:30 AM—You Be the Judge II/ Rabbi David Eliezrie Ezra AAFC MONDAY, DEC. 22 11:00 AM Chanukah Party Entertainment by Cantor Nancy Linder Ezra AAFC TUESDAY, DEC. 23 10:00 AM Books & Bagels “The Imposter Bride” by Nancy Richler Merage JCC MONDAY, DEC. 29 10:15 AM Magic Show/ Nathan Phan Ezra AAFC The Merage Jewish Community Center is located at 1 Federation Way Suite 200, Irvine, (949) 4353400 x 303. For reservations please contact Geri Dorman, Prime Time Adult Director at: gerid@jccoc.org. The Ezra Center is located at Temple Beth Emet on Monday & Thursday 1770 W. Cerritos, Anaheim, (714) 776-1103 and Temple Beth Tikvah on Wednesday. 1600 N. Acacia, (714) 8713535. Temple Bat Yahm is located at 1011 Camelback St., Newport Beach, (949) 8548854. For reservations please contact Sandy Bursten at: sandybee1@cox.net.

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Order your jelly-filled and blue & white Hanukkah sufganiot with us!

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Advertising Index

57 24 Carrots

31 Coastal Fertility

13 Albertson’s

13 Congregation B’nai Israel

77 Allan Silverman 29 Andrei’s Conscious Cuisine 55 Benjie’s Deli 17 Bureau of Jewish Education 18 Bureau of Jewish Education

4 Congregation B’nai Tzedek 10 Congregation Shir Ha-Ma’alot 49 Doubletree Irvine 19 Dr. Hilary Buff 73 Dr. Ivar Roth

53 Blueberry Hills

41 Eaton Unlimited

4 B’nai Brith

5 Gelson’s

75 Bowers Museum

19 Golden Dreidle

6 Bubbe and Zayde’s Place

34 Gourmet Detective

38 Burch, Coulston & Shepard, LLP

29 Harbor Lawn 55 Harborside Restaurant

65 Callahan & Blaine

65 Heating & Air

25 Camp Hess Kramer

21 Hebrew Academy

69 Cemetary Plot

9 Heritage Pointe

78 DECEMBER 2014 |

Jlife

2 Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust

19 Marni Scheftz Luxury Travel

3 Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust

25 Melissa Fisher Goldman LCSW

23 Parenting OC

69 Michael Rubinstein Attorney at Law

41 Jason Novack Realtor 11 Jewish Community Center 60 Jewish Federation and Family Services

37 Mortensen & Reinheimer PC 39 Mortensen & Reinheimer PC

19 Soul Mates Unlimited 69 South Coast Repatory Theater 44 St. Regis 55 Stegmeier, Gelbart, Schwartz & Benavente, LLP 34 Stevens Pharmacy 34 Sun Soler US

43 Naples Vaccum

14 Temple Bat Yahm

41 OC Helicopter

21 Temple Beth El

4 Jewish Federation and Family Services

77 Professional Health Care Services

11 Temple Beth Sholom

45 Klein Financial

7 Ralph’s

77 Krispy Kreme

33 Renaissance Club Sports

61 Jewish Federation and Family Services

69 L’Dor V’Dor 80 Laguna Playhouse 56 Long Beach Ballet 35 Marconi Auto Museum

45 Rick Sicro State Farm 34 Rock Doctor 15 Safeway/Vons 69 Solomon’s Bakery

25 Temple Beth Tikvah 31 Temple Judea 79 Tustin Ranch 14 University Synagogue 35 University Synagogue 14 Zounds Audio

Jlife

| DECEMBER 2014 79

ORANGE COUNTYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S JEWISH YOUTH & PARENTS

Four Times the Fun A Quadruplet Bat Mitzvah Hits the OC Kosher Dog Check Out Our Newest Top Dog

Chanukah Time The Holiday of Lights is Finally Here

DECEMBER 2014

G IN LL W LL RO O FA EN NOR F PRESCHOOL FOR CHILDREN AGES 26 Olam Programs • Ages 2-6 years old • Choice of two, three or five day classes • Half-day program: 8:30 to 12:00 • Full-day program: 8:30 to 2:30 • Full-day Plus: 8:30 to 5:30 • Early Care: 7:30-8:30 am

Extra-Curricular Activities These activities are available in addition to our Montessori curriculum. The instructors come to Olam once a week for families who are interested in additional programming. • Gymnastics with Mr. Dean • Webby Dance • Play Ball • Summer Camp

“The child is both a hope and a promise for mankind.” — Maria Montessori www.olamjewishmontessori.com info@olamjewishmontessori.com 3900 Michelson Drive · Irvine, CA 92612

Call for a tour! (949) 786-5230 2

a peek inside december 2014

SHAPING THE FUTURE

CHANUKAH TRADITIONS

“BRAIN GAME” SPOTLIGHT

The Merage Jewish Community Center enrichment program helps foster the next genius minds.

How this holiday brings lessons of love along with fun.

Check out the cool, yet educational Animal Winner Family Board Game.

also inside! Editor’s Note 06 For December calendar events please visit: www.ocjewishlife.com

FOUR TIMES THE FUN

KOSHER DOG

A quadruplet Bat Mitzvah hits the OC in shades of pink.

Check out December’s new winners, the “hippest” little furry pets we could find.

Music Lessons

• We provide lessons for many instruments including Piano, Violin, Cello, Guitar, and Saxophone. • Lesson range from 30-60 minute lessons for all student levels. • We teach music theory, performance, and other great musical techniques for young musicians.

Make your occasion unforgettable with the thrill of air combat action! MITZVAH AT THE SPEED OF SOUND! 714-937-1511 | www.flightdeck.com 1650 S. Sinclair St., Anaheim, CA

• Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, Weddings, Meetings & More • Eight different teambuilding activities available • See and hear all the action in the Officers Club • Rooms available for off-site meetings • Food & beverage included • Personalized dog tags and award certificates • The only facility like it in the world! • Groups up to 90 people

GET IN TOUcH wITH yOUr INNEr TOP GUN!

EDITOR’S NOTE

kiddish

PUBLISHER ORANGE COUNTY JEWISH LIFE EDITOR IN CHIEF TRACEY ARMSTRONG GORSKY, MBA CREATIVE DIRECTOR RACHEL BELLINSKY COPYEDITOR MICHELLE ITEN CONTRIBUTING WRITERS AUDRA MARTIN, SUE PENN, M. ED., HANNAH SCHOENBAUM ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES DIANE BENAROYA (SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE) MARTIN STEIN (SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE) EDITORIAL (949) 230-0581

TARMSTRONG24@GMAIL.COM

hanukah time is finally here! I hope you are as excited as we are to usher in this Holiday of Lights and general feeling of good tidings. Whether you are celebrating with a “Chanukah Bush” with all

the trimmings or sticking with tradition and highlighting your menorah as your main holiday centerpiece, this holiday brings a wonderful sense of good cheer and blue and white beauty into our homes. The lights, the candles, the dreidels, oh my! There’s no guessing why this holiday is one of the most popular and kid-friendly of all the Jewish Holidays. And unlike

ADVERTISING (949) 812-1891

SALES@OCJEWISHLIFE.COM ART

ART@OCJEWISHLIFE.COM ORANGE COUNTY JEWISH LIFE AND KIDDISH IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY ORANGE COUNTY JEWISH LIFE, LLC 1 FEDERATION WAY, IRVINE, CA 92603

Christmas, we get EIGHT chances to surprise and delight the ones we love. So while teaching our kids about the history of Chanukah is very important, don’t feel guilty about relishing in all the light-hearted pasttimes that come along with this heart-warming time of year as well. And have an extra lakte for us. Happy holidays from all of us here at Kiddish.

— Tracey Armstrong Gorsky, Editor in Chief

Editor Tracey Armstrong Gorsky is the managing editor for JLife and former editor and writer for Making Waves, Pet Product News, Veterinary Practice News and Surfing Magazine. She brings over ten years of writing and editing experience to Kiddish magazine and holds a Masters in Business Administration.

OCJL is published monthly by Orange County Jewish Life, LLC. Subscription rate is $24 for one year (12 issues). Send subscription requests to OCJL, 5665 Oberlin Dr., Ste. 204, San Diego, CA 92121. Orange County Jewish Life is a free and open forum for the expression of opinions. The opinions expressed herein are solely the opinion of the author and in no way reflect the opinions of the publishers, staff or advertisers. Orange County Jewish Life is not responsible for the accuracy of any and all information within advertisements. Orange County Jewish Life reserves the right to edit all submitted materials, including press releases, letters, articles and calendar listings for brevity and clarity. OCJL is not legally responsible for the accuracy of calendar or directory listings, nor is it responsible for possible postponements, cancellations or changes in venue. Manuscripts, letters, documents and photographs sent to OCJL become the physical property of the publication, which is not responsible for the return of such material. Orange County Jewish Life is a member of the American Jewish Press Association and the Jewish Telegraphic Agency. All contents © 2014 Orange County Jewish Life.

DECEMBER

kiddish

Shaping the Future The Merage Jewish Community Center helps foster the next genius minds. BY AUDRA MARTIN

Enrichments are a vehicle for students to build mastery.

Well over 100 kids thunder through the JCC halls every weekday. They are here to participate in the dozens of enrichment programs the JCC offers year-round, programs like iSpark and website development. These enrichment activities do more than keep our kids busy; they expand on their learning in ways that differ from the methods used during the regular school days. They bring new concepts to light and use old concepts in new ways. While the activities are fun, they also impart knowledge for the kids. Enrichments are a vehicle for students to build mastery,

ifth-grader Shahrez beams as he talks about his first business

other people will love them, too.” The SBay Kids website has a working

venture, a website called “SBay

search function and uses PayPal to

Kids.” Designing and building the

process orders. It’s the real deal. I know

technology himself, Shahrez is already into audience development, suggesting

because I bought something on the site. Shahrez built the site in an eight-

he created a site and product line that

week course here at the Merage Jewish

“attracts people.” “SBay Kids is named like

Community Center (JCC) as part of our

Ebay. I want people to come find things

after-school enrichments. His friends

they like. I priced everything in the mid-

made sites selling candy, showing off car

range and selected items that I love; then

models and sharing soccer tips.

deepening skills and interests. They provide leadership and social skills development. Children’s enrichments are available to the community whether you are a member or not. Visit www.jccoc.org to see what we are offering today. ✿

Audra Martin has worked with children in the JCC field for over 17 years. She is the Director of Children and Camp at the Merage JCC. Contact Audra at audram@jccoc.org.

DECEMBER

kiddish

Chanukah Traditions How this holiday brings lessons of love along with fun. BY SUE PENN

y favorite Hanukkah song

together, singing Chanukah songs, eating

reminds us, “Don’t let the

latkes and sovganiot (donuts), exchanging

lights go out, they’ve lasted

gifts or gelt (money), builds memories—

for so many years.” This

perpetuating our tradition and reinforcing

message is profound, referring to way more than the Chanukah candles that we

the importance of it for our children. In fact, the message of those words

light for eight days each year. Gathering

goes deeper even than lighting the

around the Hanukkiah with family and

Shabbat candles every Friday night at

close friends, chanting the blessings

sunset. Gathering around the Shabbat table as a family, participating in sacred family time, whether it be eating dinner together, listening to a story passed down through the ages, looking at family photographs, eating challah and drinking grape juice or simply having ice-cream together after dinner, sanctifies Shabbat. It shows our family a commitment to Jewish values and traditions. We reinforce our commitment to the continuation of our heritage, paying tribute to our ancestors and paving the way for future generations.

Honoring traditions helps keep our heritage alive.

When we kindle the memorial candle on the anniversary of the passing of a loved one and remember the impact that

kiddish

DECEMBER

What a perfect excuse to spend more time together.

ancestor had on us, we are honoring a

matters, that the future is vital and that it

life, a love and a message. We show our

falls upon us to share the “light.” We can

children that life has value, that every

never underestimate the importance of

individual can teach us something and

leaving the world a better place than we

that the past matters. By remembering

found it, of doing mitzvot and improving

the lives of those who came before us, we

something, somewhere along the way.

model honor and respect. We reinforce

The message of the song is powerful: we

our tradition of caring for one another at

are charged with carrying our traditions

every stage of life and pay tribute to the

forward, with ensuring that our children

impact of education and experience.

and those who come after us “don’t let the

When our children witness us lighting any of these candles and embracing tradition, we are perpetuating a future for the Jewish religion and culture. We are reinforcing that we care, that the past

lights go out!” ✿ Sue Penn is the mother of three, Education Director at University Synagogue, president of Jewish Reconstructionist Educators of North America and a member of the Jewish Educators Assembly.

WE ARE REINFORCING THAT WE CARE, THAT THE PAST MATTERS, THAT THE FUTURE IS VITAL .

DECEMBER

kiddish

“Brain Game” Spotlight Check out the cool, yet educational Animal Winner Family Board Game. BY HANNAH SCHOENBAUM

Who doesn’t love animals?

facts about animals, players will use math and strategy to win. For example, a player who is on the 400 space, and chooses to answer a medium question worth 75 points, can only end up on space 475, if he answers it correctly, but would have no chance to land on space 500, which is needed to win!

Game Contents: ① 10” X 20” game board ② 9 different animal playing pieces, and 9 plastic stands ③ 144 different animal question and facts divided into 3 categories: • 48 EASY cards (worth 50 points) • 48 MEDIUM cards (worth 75 points)

• 48 HARD cards (worth 100 points) Animal Winner Family Board games

he objective is to be the first

medium or hard. You earn points to win

“animal” to reach land safely by

depending on which level you chose. If a

also donates 10% for every purchase, in

getting a total score of EXACTLY

player goes over the 500 space, he loses

order to help children, seniors, animals,

500 points by correctly

his turn. The game is over when a player

and the environment.

answering questions about animals. Each question can be either level easy,

reaches EXACTLY the 500 point space. In addition to learning interesting

For more information please visit

www.animalwinner.com. ✿

DECEMBER

kiddish

Four Times the Fun A quadruplet Bat Mitzvah turns the OC pink.

Now that’s a party!

range County has its share of unique qualities, but now it can also boast of being the home of the first quadruplet Bat Mitzvah ceremony on record. Savanah, Kaitlyn, Victoria and Elizabeth Turner made history recently by observing this wonderful right of passage together at Temple Bat Yahm in

Newport Beach. The girls chose a fabulous Parisian theme for their party and there wasn’t a shade of pink that was spared. Kiddish would like to congratulate the young ladies and

their family. We look forward to many great things to come for and from all of you. ✿

kiddish

DECEMBER

The gals with Shevi Bollinger of shevievents.com who designed the celebration.

Left: Savanah, Kaitlyn, Victoria and Elizabeth with their parents Isabelle Tishler and Fred Turner. Right top: Ooo, La, La! Right bottom: The Turners tear up the dance floor with their specially choreographed number.

Torah with Liora Bar/Bat Mitzvah Tutoring 26 Years of Experience

Online Or in persOn Liora Cohen (714) 731-4489 liora@torahwithliora.com www.torahwithliora.com

World Class Care Just Around the Corner!

Pediatric Dentistry Child, Teen & Adult Orthodontics

Irvine Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics 949.559.0674 SHAUL YEHEZKEL, DMD, BOARD CERTIFIED 4902 Irvine Center Dr., Ste. 111 • Irvine, CA 92604 ipdodry@yahoo.com • www.irvinepdo.com Join us on Facebook for news, updates and more.

www.ocjewishlife.com 949.734.5074

Like us!

CONTESTS

kiddish

kosher dog MEET DECEMBER’S WINNER, OUR TOP DAWG! Left: Pepper, Rosie and Jim hit the surf. Right: Pepper celebrating the holidays.

Be January’s winner!

his is “Pepper,” a Springer Spaniel who recently passed after 19 years of Carpe Diem living with her adventurous family, the Czarnowskis: Jim; Elena; Rosie the retriever mix; and all the various chickens, cats and rabbits she was able to share her back yard with for so many years. Pepper was always by her family’s side and could be seen fishing, sailing or even kayaking all the way to Catalina a time or two. This is one brave-hearted doggie that loved as big as she lived. She will be truly missed. We love you Pepper!

Our pets are definitely part of our families, and here at Kiddish magazine we want to know what your four-legged friends are up to. Please send a picture of your pooch to editorjlife@gmail.com and tell us what they love to do in our wonderful Orange County neighborhood (a picture at the location is even better). Pictures of kitties are welcome too! We’ll pick a winner each month and put their picture in the magazine.