March 2023

You are going to have to make some choices, but you don’t have to make them alone. Changing jobs can be difficult, but

CHEKHOV’S TIMELESS COMIC MASTERPIECE

march 8 – april 2

Anton Chekhov’s beloved masterwork is a rich tapestry of the human condition woven into a humorous and haunting tale. With universal themes of societal upheaval, love, loss, grief, envy, and ambition, THE CHERRY ORCHARD remains as relevant and powerful today as it was when it first premiered in 1903. Serious theatre-lovers will not want to miss this classic tale of heightened human drama

DIRECTED BY DAVID ELLENSTEIN

WORLD PREMIERE

APRIL 19 – MAY 14

Acclaimed playwright Steven Dietz brings the famed Belgian detective to life to solve one of Agatha Christie’s most intricate whodunits. Of course, there are the host of usual — and — unusual suspects. A cast of six versatile actors embody a myriad of characters as they navigate the twists and turns of this lively and fun new adaptation. You won’t want to miss a thrilling moment of this comic mystery

BY STEVEN DIETZ,

FROM THE NOVEL BY AGATHA CHRISTIE DIRECTED BY STEVEN DIETZ

I’m not a comedian...I’m lenny bruce

april 24 & 25, 2023 @ 7:30pm

starring ronnie marmo

Directed by Joe Mantegna

Ronnie Marmo’s crowd-shocking portrayal of the undisputed comic legend, Lenny Bruce, brings the notorious funnyman to life with all the electrifying, insightful and comedic brilliance as the one and only Lenny Bruce could himself. (Rated R. Explicit language, Mature Content & very brief Nudity.)

northcoastrep.org

box office: 858-481-1055 | group sales: 858-481-2155, x202

PARTICIPATE IN THE FOUR MITZVOT OF PURIM:

1) HEAR THE MEGILLA (STORY OF PURIM) TWICE

2) GIVE CHARITY TO TWO PEOPLE

3) SEND FOOD BASKETS (MASHALOCH MANOT) TO ONE FRIEND

4 ) P A R T A K E I N A J O Y O U S F E A S T

There is a Chabad Jewish Center near you: Scripps Ranch (Chabad S. Diego HQ), Bonita, Carlsbad North, Carmel Valley, Chula Vista, Coronado, Downtown, East County, Encinitas, Escondido, La Costa, La Jolla, North County Inland, Oceanside/Vista, Pacific Beach, Penasquitos, Rancho S. Fe, S. Marcos, SDSU, UCSD, University City

PUBLISHERS

Mark Edelstein and Dr. Mark Moss

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Jacqueline Bull

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Makayla Hoppe

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

Eileen Sondak

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Donna D’Angelo

SENIOR CONSULTANT

Ronnie Weisberg

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily Bartell, Linda Bennett, Leorah Gavidor, Emily Gould, Judith Fein (Senior Travel Correspondent), Paul Ross (Senior Travel Photographer), Patricia Goldblatt, Pat Launer, Sharon Rosen Leib, Andrea Simantov, Marnie Macauley, Rabbi Jacob Rupp, Saul Levine, Rachael Eden, Sybil Kaplan.

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES

Alan Moss | Palm Springs

EDITORIAL

editor@sdjewishjournal.com

ADVERTISING

marke@sdjewishjournal.com

CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTIONS ronniew@sdjewishjournal.com

ART DEPARTMENT art@sdjewishjournal.com

LISTINGS & CALENDAR assistant@sdjewishjournal.com

SDJJ is published monthly by San Diego Jewish Journal, LLC. Subscription rate is $24 for one year (12 issues). Send subscription requests to SDJJ, 7742 Herschel Ave., Suite H, La Jolla, CA 92037. The San Diego Jewish Journal is a free and open forum for the expression of opinions. The opinions expressed herein are solely the opinion of the author and in no way reflect the opinions of the publishers, staff or advertisers. The San Diego Jewish Journal is not responsible for the accuracy of any and all information within advertisements. The San Diego Jewish Journal reserves the right to edit all submitted materials, including press releases, letters to the editor, articles and calendar listings for brevity and clarity. The Journal is not legally responsible for the accuracy of calendar or directory listings, nor is it responsible for possible postponements, cancellations or changes in venue. Manuscripts, letters, documents and photographs sent to the Journal become the physical property of the publication, which is not responsible for the return or loss of such material. All contents ©2023 by San Diego Jewish Journal. The San Diego Jewish Journal is a member of the American Jewish Press Association and the Jewish Telegraphic Agency.

San Diego Jewish Journal

(858) 638-9818 | fax: (858) 263-4310

#SDJewishJournal SanDiegoJewishJournal sdjewishjournal.com

Saturday, April 15, 2023

The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park

Honorary Chairs

Evelyn & Ernest Rady

Chairs

Jerri-Ann & Gary Jacobs

Tammy & Louis Vener

www.jfssd.org/gala

Joan & Irwin Jacobs

Marie Raftery & Dr. Bob Rubenstein

FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE SAN DIEGO

Looking for Hope in Eastern Standard Time

I set out to write a very grim column this month. It’s been a bad time to have loved ones in the midwest. I have close friends that still have ties to Michigan State University and we are all feeling confused and tired and scared about the mass shooting. We all spent time in Berkeley Hall where it happened. I have family in Ohio which is reeling from a catastrophic environmental disaster after the train derailment. Videos of people being trapped under rubble in Turkey have dominated my online world. There was even a criminal incident on my block that I witnessed and gave a statement for.

This all happened in a short span of time and I was feeling emotionally spent and bereft of hope. It’s hard to process so many awful things that happen all at once.

Then I was given a small gift of hope. This gift didn’t make those bad things not true, but it reminded me that it is okay to despair for a while, but what really matters is if you actually do something about it.

My dad told me that he was starting a project with University of Michigan academics. The project takes parts from aluminum-bodied cars that are totaled or otherwise out of commission and recycles them to be used again. Earlier in his career he was part of the team that designed the production cycle of how the aluminum material was used in the original manufacturing of a particular car model. I desperately try not to make a pun out of this, but this end project is really closing the loop of the project before.

This may seem like a minor environmental win, but it is a lot more than that. Firstly, it’s not minor; as aluminum-bodied cars became more prevalent, having a blueprint for this type of system can make a huge impact on how sustainable automotive manufacturing can be. Secondly it’s a big example of what can be accomplished when you combine an ethical motive, knowledgeable people and the resources to make it happen. It gave me hope because it is something real that will have a positive impact on the world and I have hope in my dad that he is the man for the job.

I’m still reeling because of all that happened. I can’t say that this piece of hope cured me. What it did was remind me that good things are still possible and worth doing. A

Our Town

by Linda Bennett and Emily Bartell

The 9th Annual Cabaret Night at Temple Emanu-El on Jan. 28 was a wonderful success. Benefitting the Morton J. Cohn Torah School, the evening displayed an impressive lineup of very talented participants, including temple members and local community talent, young and old. Some of the many entertainers we enjoyed were Shai Mashal, Levi Laddon, Jacob Lê, Rachel Sciammas, Gabrielle Koffman- Leary, Sadie Schmidt, Esther Sadja, Isaac Sadja, Jason Poliak, Sophie Showman, Maya Levine, Gabrielle Koffman-Leary, Nick Silverstein, “Sisters In Music” featuring Donna Smith, Lisa Kalal, Maria Ghaibi & Shari Ressel, “The Hummin’birds” featuring Becky Combest, Anne Ash, Melissa Hibbs, Anastacia Acheson, Charles Jirkovsky, Michelle Jirkovsky and Rabbi Benj Fried. It’s always a fun evening for friends and families to come together in support of Torah School programming. Some of those we shared this lovely evening with were Peggy Han & Eric Poliak, Marc & Lynne Glazer, Barry & Donna Lander, Jeri & Ira Moskowitz, Marc & Marlene Hamovitch, Shari Ressel, Aimee & Minh Lê, Gail & Mark Braverman and Annika Nies.

Mazel Tov to Dr. Shane Saenz and Laura Satterlee

They finally got hitched! Having met at UC Santa Cruz, after numerous years of dating and being engaged,

Shane and Laura were officially married on Oct. 14 at Yin Ranch in Vacaville, CA. Dr. Saenz is the son of Lisa Garcia and Joe Saenz. Shane was thrilled that his 91-year-old grandmother, Camille, was able to be there!

Mazel Tov to Matt Sander and Jaci Feinstein on the occasion of their marriage in Banff, Canada on Sept. 29. Matt is the son of Geri Sander and Stephen Sander(z”l). Jaci is the daughter of former San Diegan Marcia Jaffee and Leon Feinstein(z”l)

Yom Huledets Sameach to...

Lynn Epsten celebrating her 90th birthday.

Michael Bennett celebrating his 81st birthday.

Norman Greene celebrating his 81st birthday.

Sandy Jackel celebrating her 80th birthday

CELEBRATING Wedding Anniversaries

with infinite love & happiness, Mazel Tov to…

Nancy & Jay Handwerger, 65 years.

Sally & Joseph Nalven, 53 years.

Eli Rosenbaum takes skills honed Nazi-hunting to investigating war crimes in Ukraine

by Ron Kampeas

During the 35 years Eli Rosenbaum spent hunting Nazis, he always looked up to his forebears in the profession. But it was only recently, as he ventured into Ukraine to track down Russian war criminals, that he felt a personal connection with the investigators who pursued Adolf Hitler’s henchmen in the years following World War II.

For the first time in his career, Rosenbaum was seeking evidence of

crimes as soon as, or almost as soon as, they were committed.

“The Ukrainian authorities with which we work very closely have a website onto which the public or to which the public can upload their own videos,” he said. “And now that everybody who has a cell phone, has a video camera... so much evidence of the aftermath of atrocities and even the perpetration of atrocities has been captured via moving images,” Rosenbaum said.

Israel’s dual crises, explained

by Ben Sales

If it feels like there’s an overload of news out of Israel — a sea of flags at a Jerusalem protest, police sirens outside of a synagogue — that’s because there is. Israel has been consumed by two escalating crises that both appear to be crescendoing at the same time.

Israel is simultaneously contending with two things: a wave of attacks and Israeli military raids in the West Bank, and massive protests of a government plan to constrain the courts.

One poll found that just a quarter of Israelis support the plan in its current form, and hundreds of thousands have taken to the streets in protest.

Continue reading these articles at sdjewishjournal.com

This Orthodox Jewish model made history at New York Fashion Week

by Julia Gergely

When disability activist Lily Brasch was asked if she would walk the runway as a model for New York Fashion Week, she didn’t know if she would be able to do it.

That’s not because she has a rare form of muscular dystrophy, which weakens muscles and limits her ability to walk. Rather, it was unfortunate timing: The show was set for Friday evening, when the weekly Jewish holiday of Shabbat begins.

Whatever floats your boat,

Seacrest Village offers:

• A generous variety of life enrichment alternatives featuring fitness, culinary, and cultural programs

• The Ottenstein Fitness Center boasting weights, machines, treadmills, Peloton,© lap and therapy pools

• Daily walk, stretch (standing and seated), and yoga classes (standing and seated)

• Tasty menus inspired by the creativity of our chefs—with the oversight of a dietitian— which contain top-quality ingredients

• The gorgeous Chodorow Synagogue with services every Saturday and High Holy Day Observances

• Meals, cable/internet, and housekeeping included!

LIVING ON THE FRONT PAGE

by Andrea Simantov | andreasimantov@gmail.com

Jerusalem Tossed Salad

Leaving the bountiful land of one’s birth and moving to Israel requires conviction. To come without family in Israel takes a boatload of bravery or naivete.

My late father had been unwavering in his support of my move to Israel and confessed a personal disappointment in not fulfilling the dream himself. This knowledge helped assuage the guilt of not being with him in his final days. Slightly.

When my marriage dissolved after only a few years after moving, I experienced a seismic shift in life’s road map. Frightened, lost and bereft, I suddenly discovered my people. The “Anglos.”

They’d been there all along but the cocoon of nuclear marriage and childrearing had kept me unaware that like-minded strangers existed in every corner of Jerusalem. Like me, all were in various stages of personal reinvention, language proficiency, spiritual reflection and a desire to cement healthy, normative lives in the country of our choice. Single, married, straight, gay, formerly religious, newly religious, always observant, Jewish-by-choice; each year my friendship circle widened and deepened. In short order, a motleypatchwork of family-by-design emerged into a precious, connective organism upon which I’ve learned to rely. My friend, Netanya, cogently stated, “Here, in Israel, we call one-another family, the family I choose for myself. When I was ill, my children were cared for until I got

well. Shabbat and holidays wouldn’t be the same without a table filled with friends. They may not be blood related, but they are family in every other sense of the word.”

It is not unusual to become guarantors for one another in order to rent apartments. I personally served as a guarantor for a friend’s son who was in the midst of a difficult divorce. My signature (and salary) ensured that he would continue to support his children. I didn’t have to be asked twice. Sara reminded me that we cry together, hold each other up during difficult days and party like mad. My friend Irene, despite being elderly and alone, opines that her only regret about aliyah is not coming when she was younger.

When I posted the question “What role did friends play in your aliyah?” I was swamped with responses. I’d tapped an emotional dam, bursting with tales of tenderness among strangers that trumped familial relationships by far. In too many cases, the decision to move to Israel was met with derision and anger, causing rifts that never closed. What better poultice for such pain than a community that lovingly picks up the pieces for one another on sad days?

Most fascinating were the tangential threads that spoke of including a backand-forth between a mother who still lived in England but has a daughter here who made aliyah on her own and

continues on page 23 >>

Parents of children, ages 4-11

The San Carlos, Del Cerro, La Mesa, Allied Gardens and El Cajon Jewish community is exploring a new way to provide fun and engaging Jewish experiences for elementary school-aged children through a Jewish after school program

We want to hear from YOU!

Please use the link below or scan the QR code below to access a brief survey, which will take no more than 5 minutes.

A Jewish after school program would provide our children (K-5th) with:

● transportation from school

● healthy snacks

● homework help

● time to play

● meaningful and fun Jewish experiences

Monday thru Friday, from the end of the school day until the end of the work day.

TAKE THE SURVEY

https://forms.gle/4XZZ5h4RMXCsJZkj9

Thank you for participating!

OUR EMOTIONAL FOOTPRINT

by Saul Levine, M.D., Professor Emeritus in Psychiatry at UCSD | slevine@ucsd.edu

Immigration and the American Dream

On a walk last week, I stopped in front of a large building construction site, where I noticed a group of hard-hatted workers who were taking a lunch break from their labors. They were immigrant young (20s – 40s) men, speaking animatedly with each other in a mixture of Spanish and accented English. Their discussions were at times serious and at other moments there were gales of laughter. I sensed camaraderie, bonhomie and community.

Despite their arduous labors, at that moment, they seemed content: They were now in America, healthy, employed, and especially experiencing safety, away from the deprivation, violence or other challenges they might have faced in their home countries.

For some reason I was riveted there, particularly interested in them, and then it hit me: I realized that this group of workmen I was observing in 2023 could easily have been a similar group of immigrant workers who arrived in America about a century ago. And that immigrant group of strangers to this land could well have included my father, his brothers and their friends.

They too were new immigrants who had left behind deprivation and dangers, including hate and anti-Semitism. They also would have been speaking in their native languages (Lithuanian, Polish, Ukrainian, Hungarian, Yiddish, etc) and they too worked at first in construction or similar jobs which required strong, motivated workers.

These uncannily similar situations bracketed a remarkable century of achievement in America, in living standards, health, the arts and sciences and education, but those hundred years or so, sad to say, were also witness to virulent racism and terrible wars.

Young immigrant men and women from all over the world have for generations sought safety and opportunity in America, the “shining city on the hill.” They came from different cultures, speaking foreign languages, living in modest accommodations, many with young children and at first doing strenuous manual labor for relatively low wages.

They, like my father, could well have been thanking their lucky stars that they were now safe and no longer looking over their shoulders at pursuing dangers. They were at that point looking forward to making a better future life for themselves and especially for their children. This is the story of “The American Dream” is it not?

Yet we know that strong negative feelings opposed to new immigration are

currently aroused in the United States, just as they were a century ago when my young father arrived on these shores. These same heated debates also occurred a hundred years ago between those who welcomed the arrival of emigres from abroad and others who feared the presence of newcomers, who were dangerous or costly to them.

Some of those who resented their arrival were racists, others experienced xenophobia, or fear of strangers, while others attributed demeaning or dangerous traits to all new immigrants.

These same opposing and extreme sentiments are not a singular American phenomenon, as these same mixed feelings are seen in many other developed countries. Immigrants who are seeking a “better way of life” and a promising future for them and their loved ones are sometimes welcomed and at other times reviled.

Nobody should pretend that making a new life here is immediately easy and rewarding. Picture yourself leaving the only country you’ve ever known as home, as difficult as your life may have been there and then suddenly having to move to a new land with very different languages, cultures and customs.

In spite of the real challenges, there are thousands of fulfilling stories of new immigrants to these shores over the years, many having arrived bedraggled and penniless on Ellis Island. Multitudes of these men and women

Men and women from all over the world have for generations sought safety, and opportunity in America.

by Rabbi Jacob Rupp | rabbirupp@gmail.com

It Must Be Nice...

Are you living an “it must be nice” life yet?

Do you find yourself surrounded by people who look at what you do, or how you do it, the work you have, the relationships you have built, perhaps the financial situation you created and say, “It must be nice for you...but for me... well, things are hard and my situation is different.”

I recently had this conversation with a colleague who suggested as much. Having spent considerable time in the presence of people who have a “it must be nice” life, I recognized there were a few themes that these people embody and many of them (surprise, surprise) are found in the Torah.

Does anyone who has a “it must be nice” life think the same about others? Usually not — most of our most successful people see what other people have created and instead of looking at how they are different, recognize that there are basic tenants that people embody in order to create an outcome they desire.

To create a “it must be nice life,” one must be self-motivated, disciplined and have the courage to take chances. The stories of successful leaders from the Torah provide us with valuable insights into why taking chances is necessary for success and how leadership skills can help you achieve your financial goals.

Stability isn’t a theme amongst our great leaders. In the book of Genesis, we read the story of when Abraham was asked by G-d to leave his homeland and travel to a new land that G-d would show him. This was a significant risk for Abraham, as he had to leave behind everything he knew and start a new life in an unknown place. However, Abraham trusted in G-d’s plan and took the risk, which ultimately led to his success.

Similarly, the story of Joseph also highlights the importance of taking chances. Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers and ended up in Egypt, where he was imprisoned for a crime he did not commit. However, he continued to have faith in G-d and took a chance by interpreting the dreams of the Pharaoh. This act of courage and leadership led to Joseph being appointed as the secondin-command in Egypt, which made him very wealthy and influential.

These stories from the Torah demonstrate that taking risks is an essential ingredient for success. However, taking chances alone is not enough to achieve your goals. One needs to possess leadership skills and selfdevelopment to navigate the challenges that come with taking risks.

In the Torah, we see several examples of leaders who used their skills to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

One such example is the story of Moses. Despite the incredible task of creating a free nation out of the horrors of 400 years in slavery, Moses exhibited strong leadership skills, such as communication, negotiation and problem-solving, which helped him lead the Israelites to freedom. His paradigm of leadership is echoed by many subsequent leaders, who were able to rise to the occasion of the moment and create great opportunities.

In addition to leadership skills, a strong work ethic is also necessary for financial success. The book of Proverbs emphasizes the importance of hard work and diligence. Proverbs 10:4 says “Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.”

This verse highlights the fact that financial success is not handed to us on a platter; it requires hard work and dedication. “Extreme ownership” as one of my mentors Jocko Willink, speaks about is a Biblical concept as well. Putting our faith in G-d, while doing all we can to be successful is the ingredient to acquiring and living the life that we want.

Do you want a “it must be nice” life? Well, don’t tell yourself that. See what others can achieve, create a path and vision for yourself to get there and create alignment between what you want and the vision that G-d has for you.  A

Making critically important family decisions in the aftermath of emotional life changes can be extremely difficult. Our dedicated family law attorneys can help you navigate the complex divorce process with clarity.

Divorce, high conflict child custody, alternative dispute resolution, and more.

Founder Myra Chack Fleischer

Israeli Lifestyle continued Examined Life continued

a woman who came on her own 50 years ago! The British mom wanted to thank everyone who was watching over her daughter and ‘adopting’ her as their own. The woman who came 50 years ago shared, “I couldn’t believe that I left behind all of my very close friends and family. In time, friends were my lifeline to feeling human here. This network made me function in a way that I could be happy, raise a family and thrive. What is the definition of ‘family’? That which offers support and warmth. My friends embody this definition. They are my family. The family I’ve chosen.”

I feel enormously blessed to be part of a forgiving fellowship that is rife with nuance, a commonality of values, expectations, culture and attitudes. Swathed within this compassionate safety net, I needn’t fear tomorrow. There is no “alone” when others have your back.

had faced the challenges of poverty and xenophobia, but over the course of their own lives, or those of their children and grandchildren, they had been remarkably successful. Equally important, these immigrants turned out to be generative and enriching to the common good, to our country as a whole. These stories are indeed the epitome of fulfillment of “The American Dream.”

Most of us are descendants of immigrants. The United States especially has served as that beckoning beacon to immigrants and if I may be so bold, this country has been greatly enriched by these bricklayers and carpenters, tailors and upholsterers, maids and seamstresses, cooks and servers, plumbers and electricians who have spawned writers and physicians, lawyers and judges, scientists and architects, artists and musicians. If this is not the American Dream, what is?

There is also a practical Economic Imperative to being pro-immigration: Economists and business leaders have strongly advised that we need more workers, just as we always have, to fill the labor shortages we are facing now and in the future if we wish our nation’s economy to grow.

Groups of immigrant workers like the one I saw on my walk (and which my dad belonged to a century earlier) can be found throughout the United States. They will contribute to our current labor market and the growth of our economy, and, to be sure, their children and grandchildren will add to the greatness of this country.

But there is also a noble moral imperative for us to keep our doors open to those fleeing deprivation and dangers in their native lands. Even in these turbulent times, The American Dream lives on...

Rita Rudner Can’t Remember Having a Bad Time on Stage

Jewish Comedian Rita Rudner features in NCRT Spotlight Gala

by Jacqueline Bull

North Coast Rep’s annual fundraising gala will feature the comedic stylings of the luminary Rita Rudner on May 21 at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort. Rita is known for her stand-up, but has also seen success as a writer and actor for both film and plays.

Rita’s latest play “Staged” was put on at the Laguna Playhouse where David Ellenstein (of North Coast Rep) is the part-time creative director. Through that connection, her and David became friends and the idea for her to be featured in the gala came about.

Rita is a rare comic for many different reasons–chiefly that she’s had a long and successful career, yet she still has a contagious, buoyant optimism.

“I love it. It’s my favorite thing, are you kidding? I’m so fortunate to have had the longevity that I’ve had,” she said.

“You get to say what you want, wear what you want, do it the way you want to do it. No one’s telling you how to do anything. It’s fantastic. I was

a professional dancer on Broadway for 10 years and a singer and an actress. I was very happy doing that too. I’m very fortunate that I’ve loved both of my professions. I loved being on Broadway and I love being a stand-up comedian,” she said.

Conversely, she remarks she didn’t love Hollywood and being judged by looks and the whims of the industry.

“It’s funny about that. Once you are past 50 in Hollywood, you might as well be 90,” she said.

“In my part in Magnum P.I., I did 10, 20 takes. I don’t know what take they are going to use. I don’t know what they are going to cut out. I don’t know when it’s going to air. I don’t know anything. With stand-up, I know everything ‘Oh I told a joke. It was funny. Everybody laughed.’ It’s immediate gratification,” she said.

With stand-up, she explains she doesn’t have to rely on anyone to hire her except the audience.

“I do really love stand-up because I have so much control over it — it’s me and the audience. If the audience is laughing, I’m doing a good job. There is no middle man,” she said.

Even in the early days, the love of performing and the joy of making people laugh have made her reflect fondly.

“I love the strategies of making people laugh and how to write a joke. I love the camaraderie in the clubs. I always had a good time. I can’t remember not having a good time. Even the worst gigs in the world where it was three comedians and

“They’ll have a good time.”

“I promise.”

we would get lost in a bad car or working in a bar on Hell’s Angels night, it was still fun,” she said.

Rita holds comedy as her first love, but has ventured back out into the theater, co-writing with her husband Martin Bergman.

“It’s really good to challenge yourself. It helps you grow as a performer and a person really to try things that you are afraid of. I’m not very good at accents and did this part with an English accent and used a whole different voice and I did a whole different character that I’ve never done before. It was very rewarding to pull it off and it was very scary at the beginning. One of the things that I say in my book is I try to say yes more often than I say no,” she said.

And for the gala?

“They’ll have a good time. I promise. I usually tell three jokes a minute. I used to [count them out] when I did five-minute segments on ‘The Tonight Show’ and ‘Late Night.’” A

“I really love stand-up.

If the audience is laughing, I’m doing a good job.”

BY JACQUELINE BULL

See the San Diego Museum of Art (SDMA) in full bloom. Art Alive is a multi-day event at SDMA which features floral interpretations of pieces in their permanent collection and culminates in a lavish party Bloom Bash. Festivities start on Mar. 31 and last thru Apr. 2.

This year’s Art Alive has a focus on female artists. The collection that will be interpreted this year is the Museum’s Modern Women collection which includes artists like Sonia Delaunay, Françoise Gilot, Lee Krasner and Elaine de Kooning. Bloom Bash’s featured artists are also women with installation artist Laurie Shapiro, paper sculpture artist Amanda Witucki and the centerpiece rotunda design by Californian Natalie Gill.

Guests at Bloom Bash can expect the same great food, drinks, music and even a return to the Ferris wheel. The Garden of Activities is also making a return this year with fun interactive projects and demonstrations for all ages. A

Top: Sketch of the Art Alive 2023 rotunda floral installation by Natalie Gill. Middle: Paper sculpture by Amanda Witucki. Bottom: Installation by Lauri Shapiro.

Ohr Shalom, in association with the Sephardic Committee of the San Diego Center for Jewish Culture and the Rhodes Jewish Historical Foundation, is honored to host an exhibition:

Jewish Life on Rhodes

A rare opportunity to examine treasured artifacts of the lost Jewish community on the Mediterranean Island of Rhodes

March 10, 11 & 12

Items in the exhibit have been assembled by Aron Hasson, Founder and Director of the Jewish Museum of Rhodes, and Chairman of the Rhodes Jewish Historical Foundation in the U.S. Mr. Hasson will be present during the exhibit, and will deliver a lecture on Saturday evening focused on “Jewish Life on Rhodes.”

Events Schedule (Free to the Public)

Friday, March 10: Exhibit available for viewing Opening and reception at 5:30pm prior to 6:15pm

Kabbalat Shabbat services with the Ohr Shalom Choir

Saturday, March 11: Lunch and Learn with Mr. Hasson at approximately 1:00pm, following 9:30am Shabbat service.

Ohr Shalom requires masks for attendance at indoor events. Proof of COVID vaccination or negative test from that day is also required. Please stay home if you’re sick.

Saturday evening, March 11

Exhibit available for viewing at 3:00pm Lecture by Mr. Hasson at 7:30pm followed by a Sephardic dessert reception. Space is limited for Saturday’s lecture – please RSVP to the Ohr Shalom office by March 5th.

Sunday, March 12: Exhibit available for viewing at 12:30pm to 3:00pm

Special thanks to the exhibit’s underwriters at Ohr Shalom: the Lou Dunst Foundation, Sharon & Raulf Polichar, and Ana & Jose Galicot.

2023

Simchas RESOURCE GUIDE

■ Indicates active BESA member

VENUES

■ Deck655

655 W. Broadway deck655.com

(619) 993-0710

Capacity: 350, reception style

Booking cost: $6,500

Outside catering allowed: No

■ The Great Hall at UCSD

9500 Gilman Dr. ihouse.ucsd.edu

(858) 822-1791

Capacity: 220-300

Booking cost: Regular rate $3,750; non-profit rate $3,375 (both an 8-hr day)

Availability is dependent on the academic calendar

Outside catering allowed: No

Harbor View Loft

1880 Harbor Island Drive harborviewloft.com

(858) 638-0672

Capacity: 200

Booking cost: $87 for rooms for weddings;

$3,000-4,000 for corporate events

Outside catering allowed: No

■ Hilton Garden Inn San Diego/ Del Mar

3939 Ocean Bluff Ave. hiltoncampusdelmar.com

(858) 720-9500

Capacity: 200 seated

Booking cost: $129-$329 for rooms, call for a quote with event space

Outside catering allowed: Only for ethnic requirements, but $36 perperson fee applied

Hornblower Cruises

1800 N. Harbor Dr. hornblower.com

(619) 686-8700

Capacity: Up to 1,200

Booking cost: Price varies

Outside catering allowed: For dietary restrictions only

■ Hyatt Regency La Jolla

3777 La Jolla Village Dr. lajolla.hyatt.com

(858) 552-1234

Capacity: Up to 11,800 sq. ft.

Booking cost: $15,000 to $35,000 on average

Outside catering allowed: Yes, $50 plus tax and service charge fee

San Diego Botanic Garden

230 Quail Gardens Dr. sdbgarden.org

(760) 436-3036

Capacity: 30-300

Booking cost: $650-2,500

Outside catering allowed: No, but exceptions can be made for Kosher requirements

■ San Diego Mariott Del Mar

11966 El Camino Real marriott.com/sandm

(858) 369-6009

Capacity: 500-1200

Booking cost: $5,000 and up

Outside catering allowed: Yes

■ The Westin Carlsbad Resort and Spa

5480 Grand Pacific Dr. westincarlsbad.com

(760) 827-2419

Capacity: 100-500

Booking cost: No room reservation cost, only charged for food and beverage to be consumed

Outside catering allowed: Yes

EVENT PLANNERS

Bliss Events

blissevent.com

(619) 252-1058

■ Mitzvah Event Planners

mitzvahevent.com

(619) 548-3485

■ RSVP Events rsvpsdevents.com

(619) 517-6395

INVITATIONS/ DECORATION/FAVORS

Absolutely Fabulous! absofab.net

(858) 886-6807

Products: Decor, furniture rentals, props, dance floor

Allen’s Flowers allensmitzvahflowers.com

(619) 233-7673

Products: Floral centerpieces, flowers, ceremony arrangements

Backdrops Beautiful backdropsbeautiful.com

(858) 300-2100

Products: Backdrops

■ Create-A-Design Invitations and Calligraphy createadesign.net

(858) 259-6789

Products: Invitations, napkins, place cards, other favors and gifts

Lounge Appeal loungeappeal.com

(888) 229-9990

Products: Event furniture rentals

ENTERTAINMENT

■ Benjamin Asher Productions benjaminaproductions.com

(858) 790-1412

Services: DJ/MC, party pumpers, lighting, custom entrances, video montages, photo booths

■ Bollotta Entertainment bollotta.com

(619) 295-3522

Services: DJ, dance bands, comedians

■ Charming Expressions charming-expressions.com

(619) 548-3485

Services: Themed sweets, charm bracelets, scrapbooking

■ Fickle Finger Airbrush ficklefingerairbrush.com

(760) 644-1991

Services: Custom gifts, Henna and airbrushed tattoos

■ Magic Mike Stilwell magicmikestilwell.com

(619) 251-2766

Services: Magic shows

■ Maximum Impact Productions m-i-p.com

(760) 929-9669

Services: DJs, dancers, party pumpers, lighting, sound systems, video screens, etc.

My Little Carnival mylittlecarnival.com

(619) 571-7654

Services: Carnival games and prizes, clowns, jugglers, magicians, dunk tanks, rock walls, amusement rides, pony rides

■ Party Pals partypals.com

(858) 622-6613

Services: Party rental games, arcade rental games

Republic Of Music romprod.com

(619) 277-8689

Services: Live music

PHOTOGRAPHERS

■ ABM Photography abmfoto.com

(858) 271-8029

Services: Photography

■ Bob Hoffman Photography & Video hoffmanmitzvahs.com

(858) 576-0046

Services: Photography, videography, photobooths, slow-motion video booths, photo montages

Del Rio Studios delriostudios.com

(760) 480-7553

Services: Photography

Laurie Bailey Photography lauriebailey.com

(323) 493-2292

Services: Photography

■ True Mitzvahs truemitzvahs.com

(760) 271-4853

Services: Photography, videography

The Video Fellow thevideofellow.com

(858) 663-4468

Services: Videography, editing, photo booth

CATERING

$ - Up to $20 per person

$$ - $20-30 per person

$$$ - Over $30 per person

K Catering by Charles Rubin of Shmoozers shmoozers.com

(858) 397-2100

Food cost/person: Call for quote

Food style: Themed

D.Z. Akin’s dzakinsdeli.com

(619) 265-0218

Food cost/person: $-$$

Food style: New York Jewish deli

continues on next page >>

■ Rotisserie Affair Catering rotisserieaffair.com

(858) 578-8891

Food cost/person: $$

Food style: Rotisserie

K Shalom Catering shalomcatering.com

(619) 993-1437

Food cost/person: $$$

Food style: Kosher

Spice Lounge spicelounge.com

(858) 272-1600

Food cost/person: $

Food style: Indian

■ Sushi On a Roll sushifestsd.com

(619) 537-8744

Food cost/person: Call for quote

Food style: Sushi

■ The French Gourmet thefrenchgourmet.com

(858) 488-1725

Food cost/person: $-$$$

Food style: French

extras

BabyCakes babycakessandiego.com

(619) 296-4173

Food cost/person: $

Food style: Gourmet cupcakes

■ Cabetos cabetos.com

(619) 636-1301

Food cost/person: $

Food style: Handcrafted popsicles

K Chocolate Haven chocolate-haven.com

(619) 993-7785

Food cost/person: $$$

Food style: Award-winning chocolate fountains, mini desserts, handmade figurines

■ Sensational Treats sensationaltreats.com

(858) 776-4999

Food cost/person: $

Food style: Interactive dessert sensations

■ Snake Oil Cocktail Co. snakeoilcocktail.com

(858) 754-9173

Food cost/person: $$

Food style: Craft cocktails

2

$23,400 in Mount Sinai II

SEPTEMBER 28, 1920 - MAY 19, 2015 from his loving family.

2 side-by-side burial plots in El Camino Memorial in the Mount Sinai II section for $11,5000 each. Purchaser must buy both plots and pay a $400 transfer fee. Available immediately. Plots in this location are currently being sold by El Camino for $17,000 each.

The lots available are:

• SEC-MS12 491 Space 3

• SEC-MS12 491 Space 4

Please feel free to go and see them.

Please contact me at: mona.sonnenshein@gmail.com or 619 507 5587

El Camino Burial Plots

RAND MD

Superlative Physician and Cherished Family man

AM ISRAEL MORTUARY

We Are San Diego’s ONLY All-Jewish

Mortuary

Serving the community for over 40 years.

✡ Proudly Serving Jewish Families For Over 40 Years.

✡ Family Owned and Operated for Three Generations.

✡ Serving all Jewish Families, Orthodox, Conservative, Reform.

✡ Affiliated or Unaffiliated with a Synagogue.

✡ We can assist with At-need or Pre-need funeral planning. Purchasing cemetery plots or burial arrangements anywhere.

✡ We are here to help, call or email with any questions.

(619)583-8850

6316 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego

For a list of currents services and additional info: www.amisraelmortuary.com

Members of the JFDA- Jewish funeral directors of America, KAVOD - (Independent/Family owned Jewish funeral directors) Consumer Affairs Funeral and Cemetery division

CA, Lic. #FD-1320

JWV POST 385 — NORTH COUNTY

• Fight anti-semitism

• Support our military overseas

• Comradeship

• Support Naval Hospital San Diego & Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton

• and much more...

CDR Marc Poland, USN Ret 858-232-1645

Meet 2nd Sunday of the month 11:00 AM Veterans Association North County (VANC) 1617 Mission Ave, Oceanside, CA 92058

JWV is the oldest congresssionally commissioned veterans organization in America

May their memory be a blessing.

Edward Barkanic – Escondido

Stanley Hoffman – San Diego

Moisey Rozenfeld – La Mesa

Lillian Weiner – San Diego

Gary Frank – La Jolla

Lew Abrams – Haiku, HI

Suzanne Angelucci – La Jolla

Rosa Miller – Chula Vista

Carolyn Schaer – San Diego

Jeffrey Ressler – La Jolla

Cathy Anderson – Coronado

Randee Andrews – Temecula

Harold Wasserman – La Jolla

Abraham Reicher – Vista

Andrew Rinde – San Diego

Nora Marsh – San Diego

Victor Davidovsky – San Diego

Marcia Metzger – San Diego

Ida Shreiber – Carlsbad

Samuel Mason – La Mesa

Andrea Mendelson – New York, NY

Irving Shapiro – San Diego

Arthur Lelie – Encino

Judith Handler – La Jolla

Boris Flitsian – San Diego

Gary Erlich – San Diego

Susan Feigenbaum – Oceanside

Eric Kogus – San Diego

Alicia Feldman – La Jolla

Rose Carasso – New York

Saul Rosendberg – San Diego

Richard Handler – West Covina

Eugene Gotlieb – Los Angeles

Douglas Navarick –San Juan Capistrano

Dan Kaufman – San Diego

Ronit Klemens – San Diego

Melvyn Nadler – Highland Park

Ilse Scheuer – Santee

Members of the JFDA- Jewish funeral directors of America, KAVOD - (Independent/ Family owned Jewish funeral directors) Consumer Affairs Funeral and Cemetery division

Muriel Teitelbaum – San Diego

Gerald Yakatan – Del Mar

Robert Frimtzis – Oceanside

Siva Mann – San Diego

Rafael Mavashev – Santee

Meira Jonathan – Toluca Lake, CA

Selma Roth – Encinitas

Barry Berelowitz – La Jolla

Grace Narvey – Vista

Jeanie Katzeff – Cardiff by the Sea

Sue Rosenblatt – Del Mar

Ann Weinbaum – San Diego

Donald Wiseman – El Cajon

“Boldest Post in the West”

Federation Visits Ukrainian Refugees

by Makayla Hoppe

Heidi Gantwerk, president and CEO of the Jewish Federation of San Diego, recently visited Moldova to see the aid the Federation and the Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) are providing to Ukrainian refugees. The San Diego Jewish Journal sat down with her to discuss the trip.

This interview has been edited for space and clarity.

SDJJ: Was this a joint effort by both the Jewish Federation of North America (JFNA) and JDC?

Heidi Gantwerk: Yeah, they called it a JDC-JFNA “fly-in” and there were people representing both the Federation’s and JDC’s operations on the ground. Most of the partners on the ground that work in the former Soviet Union, the staff there are Joint — but not just the Joint — they’re also the staff of Hillel International and World ORT. And the JCC movement also is active there, and we met with them, too.

SDJJ: Who was on the trip?

HG: There were only about 30 people on the trip, which included the CEO of JDC and the CEO of JFNA. So it was a very small group of executives and

philanthropists... And then we had JDC staffers with us the whole time. So maybe we had 35 people and we had photographers and videographers. It was a small and intimate group and you got to know each other pretty well in two days. It’s not very long, but the experiences are such that you form a bond with these folks.

particularly to countries served by JDC. There were people from New Jersey, Hartford, Chicago, Birmingham and Toronto. It was a very interesting mix of people of Federations both large and small–all of whom had an interest in this sort of overseas work and this emergency service.

SDJJ: Do you know how people were selected for this trip?

HG: That’s an interesting question. We have a wonderful relationship with the JDC in San Diego and San Diego has been a very, very supportive community for the JDC. And so I think our [representative], who is Shaun Goldstone, called and asked if any of us would like to go, that there were some spots for San Diego. I think that’s because of the generosity and the attention of this community to global Jewry and

SDJJ: What was something that stood out to you once you arrived?

HG: We met a couple of refugees that were Holocaust survivors and are now escaping Putin and the war. That just felt just so awful to me: these poor, older people. And since we were there, the government has undergone an overhaul. Russian missiles flew overhead and Putin really has his sights set on Moldova, so none of that is going to make any of this any easier for these people.

San Diegans Jeff Schindler, Heidi Gantwerk and David Bark at the Kishinev Jacobs Jewish Cultural Center in Moldova.

SDJJ: Were you scared to be there?

HG: No, I wasn’t scared and I’ll tell you why. First of all, I tend to go into these situations and just do it. For me, it was a privilege to be able to fly in for two days, basically be treated extremely well and see the best of what everybody has to offer and then fly out, right? These people live with [the war] every day. So I kind of feel like I don’t have the right to be scared. We had people coming to us from Odessa, Kharkiv and Kyiv. They traveled hours or days to get there to share their stories with us, right through cities that don’t exist anymore, taking routes that have been sort of protected, but they’re not sure they’re safe. Some of them don’t have safe drinking water; they don’t have electricity. I wasn’t thinking about my own safety in that context. And that would have felt selfish to me... It’s not the safest place in the world, but I felt like I had been given a gift to be able to go and see this.

SDJJ: What did you notice about the Jewish community in Moldova?

HG: One of the gentlemen we met didn’t know anything about the Jewish community in Moldova. He came from Mykolaiv, a city that’s been decimated–an older guy in his 70s, he and his wife came. One day he was part of a synagogue in Mykolaiv. He came a few weeks after enduring this bombing and he wanted matzah. So he saw someone on the street that he thought looked religious, an Orthodox Chabad-type person and he asked this person, “Can you help me? I want to find matzah.” Within a week... he got connected into the Jewish community, so he was getting a box of supplies, a housing subsidy, a financial subsidy and access to psychological treatment. They moved them into a safe hotel. All of that happened because he saw someone who looked Jewish and that is the nature of the Jewish community in a place like that.

SDJJ: What are some of your final thoughts on this experience?

HG: I would just love to see people support this work. The quote that somebody used is, “The heart can’t feel what the eyes can’t see.” And that quote, to me, is exactly right. I got a chance to be the eyes for this community. And it is so we are able to continue to help, we have the ability to do so, we sort of have the obligation to do so. These people are suffering in ways that are unimaginable to us. It is not just about the emergency dollars; it’s about the ongoing support for the Corps. If they had to create all of this infrastructure from scratch, it would have taken months and people would have died as a result. Support these organizations, and I hope Federation, to increase the amount that we can do for these communities overseas because they are creating and strengthening Jewish life around the world — around the globe. And it’s amazing. A

Local Offerings

BY EILEEN SONDAK

LA JOLLA PLAYHOUSE

lajollaplayhouse.org.

THRU APR. 2: The Outsiders

La Jolla Playhouse has a world premiere ready to showcase this month: “The Outsiders,” a musical based on Francis Ford Coppola’s movie. The story has been reimagined as a groundbreaking musical about a fight for survival by a family of “havenots” in Tulsa, Oklahoma back in 1967.

The Playhouse’s annual Without Walls Festival will kick off with a co-production at the Rady Shell in association with the San Diego Symphony. This unique cultural happening includes music, dance, puppetry and immersive and sitespecific shows designed for the whole family. The complete roster of the WOW Festival is to be announced — so stay tuned.

BROADWAY SAN DIEGO

broadwaysd.com

THRU MAR. 5: Mean Girls

Broadway-San Diego is presenting “Mean Girls” at the Civic Theater. The record-breaking musical (based on the hit film) is smart and wickedly funny.

THE OLD GLOBE THEATRE

theoldglobe.org

THRU MAR. 12: Under a Baseball Sky

The Globe-commissioned world premiere “Under a Baseball Sky,” explores baseball’s deep roots in the Mexican American community. This charming new work directed by James Vasquez celebrates communities coming together to find hope, healing and love.

MAR. 17-APR. 23: The XIXth (The Nineteenth)

The Old Globe is offering another world premiere, titled “The XIXth (The Nineteenth),” a play based on real events from the historic 19th Olympic games. The saga deals with two Black American sprinters on the intersection of sports and activism back in 1968. The show will be ensconced on the Main Stage under the direction of Carl Cofield.

NORTH COAST REPERTORY THEATRE

northcoastrep.org

MAR. 8-APR. 2: The Cherry Orchard

North Coast Repertory Theater returned to the classics this month with an adaptation of Chekhov’s “The Cherry Orchard.” David Ellenstein directed this comic masterpiece, rich with universal themes of societal upheaval, love, loss, grief, envy and ambition. The play is both humorous and haunting, and it will be a welcome addition to the theater scene this month.

“Under a Baseball Sky” at the Old Globe.

James Sutorius in ‘The Cherry Orchard.’

PHOTO BY AARON RUMLEY.

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART

mcasd.org

The Museum of Contemporary Art is unveiling two new exhibitions by Latina artists on Mar. 16. They will remain through Aug. 13. Griselda Rosas is known for her textile art, collage, painting, drawing and curating. This exhibition will feature sculpture, installations and textile drawings.

Conceptual artist Celia Alvarez Munoz will celebrate her first career retrospective of work spanning 40 years. The show features 35 artworks, including large-scale immersive installations, photographic series, and book projects. These two artists draw on their experiences living on both sides of the border with Mexico.

SAN DIEGO OPERA

sdopera.org

MAR. 25-APR. 2: Tosca

The San Diego Opera is ready to stage the welcome return of Puccini’s “Tosca,” a masterful tale of treachery and lust that features one of the most powerful plots in the genre. Renowned soprano Michelle Bradley performs the title role. San Diego Opera favorite Greer Grimsley returns to reprise his role as the villainous Scarpia. Resident Director Alan E. Hicks will stage this operatic gem — known for its stunning arias and beautiful choral work.

THE ROUSTABOUTS THEATRE CO

theroustabouts.org

MAR. 16-APR. 2: gUnTOPIA

This world premiere dark comedy explores a universe where shooting deaths are given the same weight as parking tickets.

CYGNET THEATRE

cygnettheatre.com

MAR. 29-APR. 30: Present Laughter

LAMB’S PLAYERS THEATER

lambsplayers.org

THRU MAR. 26: The Classic Divas

The Lamb’s Players Theater is featuring the music of the great female singers of the ‘60s in “The Classic Divas.” Among the many greats portrayed in this homage are Aretha Franklin, Diana Ross and Joni Mitchell.

Cygnet Theater will bring Noel Coward’s remarkable wit to the stage at Old Town. “Present Laughter” is a lighthearted farce — with a main character based on the playwright himself. The troupe’s talented artistic director takes on the role of this largerthan-life star, besieged by legions of adoring fans. Rosina Reynolds directs this delightful comic romp.

Michelle Bradley.

Griselda Rosas at MCASD.

gUnTOPIA cast.

Disability Awareness at Ohr Shalom

Ohr Shalom closes out Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance & Inclusion Month on Mar. 4 with a documentary film screening & panel discussion about “Anxious Nation.” Filmmaker Laura Morton will be in-person for the discussion and it will also be shown on Zoom. “Anxious Nation” sheds light on the effects of anxiety on adolescents and their families.

San Diego Theatre Month

March is San Diego Theatre Month, a program put on by San Diego Performing Arts League (SDPAL). Participating theaters offer tickets at $15, $30 and $45. Some of the participating theaters include Moxie Theater, New Village Arts, Oceanside Theater Company, The Old Globe and La Jolla Playhouse. Rady Shell concerts, dance, youth theater and storytelling are also part of the event. Go to sandiegotheatremonth.com/shows to see the available shows.

San Diego Restaurant Week

San Diego Restaurant Week returns for its 20th year Mar. 26 – Apr. 2. Over 100 restaurants in 30 neighborhoods are participating. Two-course lunches and three-course dinners start at $20. The full list of participating restaurants and menus is at SanDiegoRestaurantWeek.com.

San Diego City Council Updates Development Regulations

San Diego City Council adopted updates to the City’s development regulations which will increase the amount of developable land near major public transit stops.

“The new definition of Sustainable Development Area aligns development with the City’s Climate Action Plan goals to expand housing near transit so more people can bike, walk, roll or take transit to their work,

home, shopping and other places of enjoyment within their community,” said Planning Director Heidi Vonblum. “At the same time, it furthers fair and affordable housing opportunities in our city that desperately needs it.”

The distance used to be measured as the crow flies which didn’t account for barriers to transit like canyons and freeways and now relies on a 1-mile walk definition.

The change increases the potential developable areas by more than 5,200 acres while also removing other areas that would otherwise be less accessible to public transit.

Still from “Anxious Nation.”

Around the World, Helping Those in Urgent Need

Donations to Jewish Federation of San Diego County are directly helping Ukrainian refugees in their neighboring countries. Heidi Gantwerk, Federation CEO, returned from a two-day “fly-in” to Kishinev, Moldova, to see first-hand the impact this life-saving and life-changing work:

“I now understand more than ever the essential, lifesaving importance of the ongoing, core funding our Federation and our community provides every year to our partners in the Former Soviet Union.

The extensive support infrastructure, the talented staff already embedded in the community, the volunteer network, and the existing facilities meant that when war broke out, our organizational partners were already there, ready to pivot. The additional dollars we raise go directly to material support, goods, and rent subsidies, as well as to medical, psychological and other critical needs. And while our attention may be turned elsewhere, given all that is going on around the world and at home, the most significant European military conflict since WWII continues without an end in sight, and people still desperately need our help.”

Please consider contributing to Federation’s efforts at jewishinsandiego.org/give

Help us help those who depend on our support and the support of the global Jewish community.

Inna Vdovichenko of Federation partner Joint Distribution Committee, showing a sample of the orange, murky water from Nicolayev, one of the hardest-hit cities in Ukraine.

Olga and Mihail in their small hotel room in Molodva, where they have stayed for ten months “watching the war” and praying to return to their home.

Refugees Luda and Liana. Liana is in 1st grade at the World Ort School in Moldova, a Federation partner accepting Ukrainian refugee students.

Espresso Martini Hamantaschen

by Micah Siva noshwithmicah.com

Hamantaschen have always been one of my favorite holiday treats — but not your average deli cookie that crumbles around a jammy filling. This recipe is anything but ordinary, inspired by the hottest cocktail on menus across the country: the espresso martini! An eggless dough is flavored with instant coffee and Kahlua, and wrapped around a sweet, coffee-laced filling made with Nutella, cream cheese and garnished with a coffee bean!

Serve with a cup of coffee, milk, or your favorite espresso martini!

MAKES 20-24

DOUGH:

• ¾ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1¼ cup apple sauce

• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

• 1 tbsp. instant coffee powder

• 1 tbsp. Kahlua

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tbsp. cornstarch

• 1 tsp. baking powder

• ¼ tsp. sea salt

FILLING:

• ¾ cup Nutella

• ½ cup cream cheese

• 1 tbsp. instant coffee powder

• ¼ cup sugar

• 1 tbsp. Kahlua

• 24 coffee beans

• ½ cup white chocolate chips

• ½ tbsp. coconut oil

PREPARATION:

1. Use the paddle attachment to combine the butter, sugar, apple sauce, vanilla, coffee powder and Kahlua until light. Add the flour, cornstarch, baking powder and salt, mixing on low until just incorporated. Add the sprinkles and mix on low for 1 minute more to evenly distribute.

2. Flatten the dough into a disc and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 45 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, make the filling: in a bowl or stand mixer, combine the Nutella, cream cheese, coffee powder, sugar and Kahlua.

4. Line 2 baking trays with baking paper.

5. Remove the dough from the fridge and cut it in half. Re-wrap one half of the dough with plastic wrap and keep in the fridge. Roll one half of the dough on a wellfloured surface to ⅛-inch thickness.

6. Use a 3-inch circular cookie cutter (or glass) to cut out circles and transfer them to the lined baking trays. Repeat with remaining dough. Brush each circle with the cornstarch mixture. Re-roll the scraps until all dough is used. If you find the dough is sticking to the glass, dip it in flour before cutting.

7. Place 1 tsp. of the filling in the center of each circle. Fold the left side of the dough towards the center, covering a small portion of the filling. Fold the right side of the dough towards the center, slightly overlapping with the left on the edge closest to you, creating a triangle shape. Fold the top of the dough over, pinching the edges together, or tuck it over like an envelope. Pinch each corner to secure.

8. Repeat with the remaining circles and top each hamantaschen with a coffee bean. Transfer the tray to the fridge for at least 15 minutes.

9. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350F.

10. Bake the hamantaschen directly from the fridge for 13 to 15 minutes, or until just golden. Note: if you roll the hamantaschen out too thick, it will take longer to bake. Check the hamantaschen for doneness around 12 minutes. Let cool on the baking tray.

11. Melt white chocolate and coconut oil in the microwave in 30 second increments. Drizzle the white chocolate over the hamantaschen.

Summer Camp 2023 & 2023-2024 School Year

6660 Cowles Mountain Blvd., San Diego, CA 92119 619-697-1948 | preschool@tiferethisrael.com

Hebrew Day School’s Middle School Day of Service

Estelle Workman, School Director K-8

Hebrew Day School’s Middle School Day of Service took place February 22 and sent 50 students into the San Diego Jewish Community. The goal, to kindly give back in appreciation of the community we enjoy. The day was guided by the concept that “Leadership transforms those who lead as well as those who are influenced by it.” Dedicated as the Reuben Klamer ‘Game of Life’ Youth Leadership Program, volunteerism is an important aspect of the Hebrew Day School culture. Mr. Klamer, who passed away at the age of 99, took great pride in encouraging children to be ‘upstanders’ who take on community challenges.

Hebrew Day coordinated with Jewish Family Service of San Diego, San Diego Jewish Community Center, House of Israel, Friendship Circle and Hebrew Day’s very own Library and Preschool. Students gave service through gardening, making Purim baskets for Holocaust survivors, art for persons with disabilities and as teacher’s assistants. Beth Herrick of the House of Israel wrote “All the kids were a delight. They worked very hard.” It was a successful day not only for the organizations involved, but for the students tasted the joy of giving back to their community.

Judith’s thoughtful system is a fabulous guide, a must-read for every single! DR. DIANA KIRSCHNER, Bestselling author of ‘Love in 90 Days’ Judith Gottesman, MSW

books, ‘The Lost Art of Dating’ & ‘Your Soul Mate Awaits’!

by Marnie Macauley, M.S. | marniemacauley@gmail.com

The Fine Art of the Bar Mitzvah Without (Too) Much Fuss, Muss, and Cash

My Dear San Diegans:

The one thing I adore more than a jar of whitefish sent all the way from Katz’s Deli in Brooklyn to the West is planning an event. Any event. Anyone’s event. They’re still talking about my son’s Bar Mitzvah held in Sardi’s in New York, maybe seven mayors ago. (“They” are those who are still alive and making small talk on their respirators.)

What can I say? I despise rotten celebrations which include the joyless, the fun-less, the meaningless, the overproductions, the bad food, the horrible seating and the “look at us rich Teitlebaums appearances-first Bar Mitzvah macher production. Bettah than you!”

Today I shall give you strategic ways to plan a bat/bar mitzvah which will make former guests smile at the memory (even when they’re on a respirator).

Marnie says: Getting it: Four Bar Mitzvah Celebration Strategies

1. STRATEGIC INVITATIONS

Re-Think: When I receive a 14-inch fancy, lacy, gaudy, tissue-filled invite, I have an irrepressible urge to turn it into a bathroom curtain. It also offends my sense of budget and 3000 years of “discount” and “tzedakah” DNA. I literally have an allergic reaction and think about how many meals one of these monstrous invites could provide a village of Ukrainian Jews. Expensive and Not Strategic.

Do-Over: Better Strategic Thinking: Most of us have received those free cards charities send you when you give them a donation or they want one; the plain cards with a simple design promoting a good cause, such as funds for Israel, medical research or wildlife?

My one word: customize. I called my favorite charity and they did it. I paid for each card, they customized the “who, where and when” while each invite became a donation. It’s a good deed, I believe classier and costs way less than sending out “A custom ‘Chagall window-themed invite’ to Melvin’s Bar Mitzvah!”

2. STRATEGIC MOTIFS

Re-Think: The worst I endured was the Bar Mitzvah among the boars. Yes, this was In a jungle motif, complete with roaring, growling and caws. The Bar Mitzvah boy descended in a cage in the jungle as we guests fell over flora and fauna trying to find our table in the dark. And that was just for starters.

Do-Over: Better Strategic Thinking: My two words: simple and classy. The synagogue, your home, a library, a super restaurant, a tent, a museum or a great house that rents for occasions are amazing — even for the rich and wannabees. It beats an overdone catering hall, with wild animal noises and falling guests. My suggestion is to go to a place

you know well and discuss plans, décor with the owner to make it super special and meaningful to you and your family.

3. STRATEGIC EATING

Re-Think: Which do we like better? The cocktail hour, stuffing ourselves with kosher pigs in the blanket, gefilte fish balls and mini-knishes or sitting at a table with either the chicken or the fish with peas and mashed potatoes? These I wouldn’t order at Denny’s.

Do-Over: Better Strategic Thinking: My one word: buffet.

Bubbe can’t chew steak, your niece is allergic to fish, your millennial daughter is a vegan, your guests are an amalgam of family and friends from Israel to Brooklyn to Mexico. Who doesn’t adore variety in life and especially in food? If you’re Kosher, a meat or milk buffet (if not, a combo) is a real mitzvah for guests with different tastes (or are easily bored by a breast or a leg). Waiters can serve whoever is sitting wherever for the first round and then it’s a free-for-all. Your nearest and dearest can stuff themselves as much as they wish and it was less expensive than a sit-down.

4. STRATEGIC ENTERTAINING

Re-Think: Personally I think there’s a certain difference between a Bar Mitzvah and the Cirque Du Soleil (or any offthe-wall theme. The Bar Mitzvah is the

theme.) There’s also a huge difference between a Bar Mitzvah boy and a small Batman descending in a cave. There’s also a difference between celebrating the little “King” or “Queen” for a day and forcing 150 people to watch a giant screen playby-play of the kinder’s life starting with her birth. All this to me is tasteless, tacky and taxing. It’s also a fortune.

Some entertainment and side “shows” that are tasteful and fun are fine. As my late husband and I were in media, we were blessed with talented friends: One did a song for our son and an actor pal read a fascinating early tale of a Rabbi talking about life with a Bar Mitzvah boy. And then we had toasts all around. I prefer Jewish-themed entertainment, e.g. cantors who are humorists, or can lead the group in song, or other Jewish-styled entertainers leading games over hiring mimes, aerialists or acrobats.

Ultimately, the Bar Mitzvah is a joyous celebration of the coming of age of our children. Coming of age deserves family and friends joining together for fun and excitement. But in the midst of celebrating, let us not forget this momentous affair is, most of all, a renewed commitment to our age-old tradition. It should be given with love, with common sense, with consideration for our guests and without cashing in our IRA. A