Pg. 21 The South Bay's guide to the - National Challah Bake pg. 8 South Bay March of the Living pg. 10 Maccabiah Games Highlights pg. 16 Get Your ...
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The South Bay’s
guide to the
pg. 21
National Challah Bake pg. 8
South Bay March of the Living pg. 10
Maccabiah Games Highlights pg. 16
Get Your Laugh On pg. 20
HIGH HOLY DAYS COMMUNITY GREETINGS
May the joyful sound of the shofar welcome Wishing us all a year of Acceptance,
in a new year of health & happiness! Compassion and Tolerance
Susan, Lee, Abigail, Daniel & Sarah Gavens From all of us at CHAIM www.thechaim.org
Wishing all of you a sweet, healthy and ‘Shanah Tovah u’metukah from
Happy New Year.
From our family to yours, the Sweedlers Temple Emanu-El
Shanah Tovah For the South Bay’s most comprehensive
To You & Yours! listing of High Holy Days services
and events, check out our events
Jyl & David Jurman calendar starting on page 21!
WHAT’SINSIDE
Around The Community.................................................. 4
Simchas................................................................................ 5
Weddings............................................................................. 6
Obituaries............................................................................ 6
Time to Get Your Bake On.............................................. 8
Making Time for the High Holy Days........................... 9
Sunnyvale Doctor Organizations MOL...................... 10
Hadassah Meets With Congresswoman......................11
Having Difficult Conversations.....................................12
Celebrating The New Year Traveling Holocaust Museum........................................13
What’s Your Legacy..........................................................14
5778 With New Beginnings Republican or Democratic Food Pantry? No!............15
Maccabiah Games............................................................16
With the High Holy Days upon us, we’re spending time
reflecting on the past year and looking forward to what’s coming next. Kehillah Habitat Restoration......................................... 17
The Federation is kicking into high gear with all sorts of exciting events. Silicon Valley Jewish Film Festival................................19
Women’s Philanthropy’s Dignity Drive is going on now through October
26. WP is working with the Grateful Garment Project to accept donations Get Your Laugh On.........................................................20
of sports bras for women who are victims of sexual assault. Divine Comedies at the APJCC.....................................20
Scotch & Ribs in the Sukkah is a very popular event. Partnering with
Congregation Beth David (CBD), it will be on October 8 in the CBD Sukkah. Events Calendar................................................................21
It’s a great opportunity to eat, drink and socialize.
October 18 brings us Dr. Paula Kushlan, a medical oncologist with
High Holy Days Events Calendar................................. 22
Stanford University who will discuss advances in breast cancer treatment. The Lighter Side..............................................................30
On October 26, our annual challah baking event, Do The Twist, takes
place in the Levy Family Campus auditorium. Professional Directory...................................................30
The Mah Jongg Tournament is on December 3 co-sponsored by the
APJCC and the Federation.
And this year’s Super Sunday event will have a birthday theme in honor
of Israel’s 70th. We hope you can join us to make calls. When your phone
rings, please answer the call to help our community. facebook twitter
The preparation for Israel’s 70th birthday celebration on campus is jewishsiliconvalley @jewishsv
starting to take shape. Mark your calendars for April 15 to begin the
festivities. Follow us on social media and keep your eyes on these pages to
be among the first to know what exciting things are taking place. instagram
Stay up to date on all the events and happenings at the Federation by jewishsiliconvalley
visiting the website, jvalley.org, and click on the “calendar” link.
To start this New Year, we’re welcoming two new staff members. Roni
Wolfe is our Outreach and Engagement Coordinator, focusing on the PJ
Library program, Women’s Philanthropy and Giving Circle. Marci Gordon
is our new Chief Development Officer, who will be helping to develop new
strategic fundraising and outreach directions for the Federation.
We hope you’re enjoying the new magazine format. JValley Magazine
is the South Bay’s Jewish voice. We need you to support the magazine.
If you own or manage a business, or know someone who does, please
consider purchasing an ad. The rates are very competitive for comparable
publications. If you aren’t already a free subscriber, join our mailing list. 14855 Oka Rd., Suite 200 • Los Gatos, CA 95032
Above everything else, we want to hear from you. What kinds of things Phone (408) 357-7502 • Fax: (408) 356-0733
would you like us to talk about? Send us a message through social media.
Sign up for our email newsletter (text JEWISHVALLEY to 22828). Talk to us JEWISH FEDERATION CEO Jyl Jurman • jyl@jvalley.org
in the hallways of the Levy Family Campus. And call either of us anytime. (408) 357-7500
Remember, we’re your Federation. EXECUTIVE EDITOR
ADVERTISING & BILLING Jeff Rosenplot • jeff@jvalley.org
We wish you and your love ones a good and healthy 5778, (408) 357-7502
L’Shana Tova,
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Pat Bergman
SIMCHAS & OBITUARIES Andrea Greyber
Joel Susan andrea.greyber@gmail.com
(408) 377-6224
Joel Rubnitz and Susan Gavens Published six times per year by the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley. We reserve the right
Presidents, Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley to edit all content. JValley Magazine is not responsible for the content of paid advertising.
Online at jvalley.org/news
AROUND THE COMMUNITY
Jewish Family Services
Bonnie and Zoey with donated
backpacks: Bonnie Slavitt and her
grand-daughter Zoey purchased
and packed backpacks for needy
students three years in a row
for the JFS’ Equipped to Learn
Backpack Drive
Teen volunteers in front of board: Local teens spend their summers
Avital, Yanex and Lisa at Chai House BB: Avital Agam,
volunteering with Jewish Family Services. They’ve helped with a food drive
Yanex Orellana and Lisa Warner are part of the JFS
for refugees, Equipped to Learn Backpack Drive, creating Mitzvah Hero
team at Chai House.
buttons and much more. L to r: Sam Chazin, Arthur Gatin, Guy Zuk, Leo
Michels, Sharanya Suresh, Eileen Chen. JFS is always looking for more teen
volunteers. Contact Sheila Monheit, JFS Volunteer Coordinator at sheilam@
jfssv.org or (408) 357-7451 Will and friends with
donated supplies – L.
to R.: Kimi Yashar, Will
Yashar, and their friends
JJ and Chloe stepped up
to help local students
be Equipped to Learn
this school year at the
JFS backpack drive. Will
Dorene Kastelman, asked his bar mitzvah
Elise Wessels, and guests to give backpacks
Betsy Arnstein at instead of presents,
JFS’ recent Volunteer and collected over 20
Appreciation Ice backpacks and $2000.
Cream Social
Rain Pryor Highlights
Rain Pryor took the APJCC Auditorium stage at the Levy Family Campus on August 27 and there wasn’t
a seat in the house that wasn’t roaring with laughter. Poignant, hilarious and heartwarming, Pryor’s
show was only exceeded by her graciousness with her audience afterwards.
4 w w w . j v al l e y . o r g • L i k e us o n Fa c e b o o k ( j e w i s hs i l i c o nva l l e y) • Fo l l o w us o n T wit t er (@ jewis hs v)
S I M C H A S
Births Karlie Gold
Daughter of Jamie & Ken Gold was
Libby & Micah Witkin called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah
Daniel & Shanda Witkin of on August 26 at Temple Emanu-
Congregation Shir Hadash are El. She is an honor roll student at
blessed to announce the birth of Monroe Middle School where she
Libby Shira and Micah Ilan. The starts 8th grade. Karlie is a dedicated
twins arrived on April 4. Asher is dancer and has been dancing
a proud and helpful big brother. competitively (mainly jazz and tap) for
The newly enlarged family is over six years: she currently studies
surviving with the amazing help of at T & Company Dance Center
grandparents, Lou & Janet Witkin in Campbell. She is active in the
of Congregation Beth David and National Charity League and National Junior Honor Society. Previously,
Steve & Kolet Kaplowitz (formerly of Temple Emanu-El). she was involved in Girl Scouts; she has enjoyed dancing in her school
musical productions. In her spare time, Karlie enjoys watching YouTube
Sarah Jacobson Rita & Jerry videos, going to the theater, and hanging with friends at Starbucks and
Jacobson of Congregation Sinai are the mall. For her Mitzvah Project, Karlie is incorporating her love of
pleased to announce the birth of their makeup by collecting new make-up products, creating new makeup
great-granddaughter, Sara Jacobson goodie bags and donating them to women impacted by domestic violence
on June 19. She weighed 6 pounds who might need a boost to their self esteem. Working in conjunction with
and 9 ounces. Sara is the daughter Next Door Solutions to Domestic Violence and Shalom Bayit, Karlie hopes
of Nechemia & Chaya Jacobson of to help these women feel better about themselves during a difficult time
Jerusalem and the little sister of Yosef in their lives.
Mendel. Her grandparents are Rabbi
David & Emily Jacobson of Los Angeles Adam Ian Zbriger
and Yehuda & Bella Hoschander of Son of David & Adina Zbriger was called to
Toronto, the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on August 26 at
Canada. Peninsula Temple Shalom in Burlingame. He
is the older brother of Shaina Zbringer and
Rylie Jo Fuchs Rylie Jo Fuchs was is an eighth grade honor student at Parkside
welcomed into the Cohen and Fuchs Intermediate School in San Bruno. Adam
Families July 17. She is named after her is the grandson of Zevika & Helen Salles of
maternal great-grandmothers, Ruth San Francisco and Rich & Carol Zbriger of
and Josephine, and her paternal great- San Jose. Adam enjoys reading, artificial
grandfather, Joseph. Rylie’s parents are intelligence, music playing the drums,
Derek & Danielle Fuchs of Mesa, AZ and and anything to do with Star Wars. For his
her grandparents are Jim & Julie Fuchs of Mitzvah Project he volunteers every week
Sebring FL, and Barry & Mary Cohen of to tutor kids at Burlingame Library. Guests
Saratoga and longtime members of Temple came from all over the U.S. and Israel to
Emanu-El. celebrate this Simcha.
Oren Kagel
Son of Eric & Pazit Kagel was called to the
Called to the
Torah as a Bar Mitzvah at Congregation Sinai
on September 9. He is the younger brother
of Adam and Danielle and was happy to
Torah follow in their footsteps. Oren is a seventh
grader at Fisher Middle School. He enjoys
swimming and playing with his dog, Nico.
Emma Josephs His grandparents, Ina & David Kagel of Los
Daughter of Jerald Josephs & Deborah Angeles, were happy to attend this festive
Ong was called to the Torah as a Bat occasion. His maternal grandparents, Yona &
Mitzvah on August 12. Emma lives in Santa Tamar of Israel could not be there.
Clara with her parents and her older sister
Sela, 15. Emma is an eighth grader at Hyde Middle School, where she
enjoys creative as well as academic classes. She loves animals, music and
writing. Emma particularly enjoys playing bass clarinet in the school band
and is looking forward to continuing to study To submit Simchas or obituaries, contact Andrea Greyber via email
music in the future. at andrea.greyber@gmail.com or by phone at (408) 377-6224.
Sarah Silverberg-Rajna
Daughter of Shana & Hugo Silverberg-Rajna
was called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on
August 12 at Temple Beth Torah in Fremont.
Sarah attends Hopkins Junior High School. Stay Connected.
Her sister is Judith Silverberg-Rajna. Beloved
grandparents are Jussi & Lena Rajna of Text JEWISHVALLEY
San Jose and Darby & Ana Silverberg of
Manhattan Beach, CA. The highlight of each to 22828
year for her is attending URJ Camp Newman.
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C O R R E C T I O N
In the Summer 2017 issue of JValley Magazine, we inadvertently placed
Henry Jules Thailer’s photograph with Sydney Levin’s obituary.
We sincerely apologize for any confusion.
SYDNEY LEVIN
July 21, 1923 – May 12, 2017
Sydney Levin passed away peacefully at his home in Los Gatos,
a man passionate about life who loved and was loved by his family,
friends, and colleagues. He was born in Palo Alto, the youngest in a
family of nine brothers and sisters. He graduated from Palo Alto High
School and Stanford University and served his country in World War
II. After the war, he returned to Palo Alto, married Virginia Larsen with
whom he had two children, Gary and Ginny. He entered the scrap metal
business in San Jose with his brothers David and Richard Levin, building
and operating successful businesses. He retired to enjoy life and family.
From there he created and operated his own real estate development
business.
Syd was a lifelong supporter of the arts. He and Virginia were
patrons of the San Jose Civic Light Opera and worked to build the
Megan Leigh Parkins and Adam Scott Hendrickson Center for the Performing Arts in San Jose. They established the Ginny
Awards scholarships for the arts. He generously supported the Boys
Megan Leigh Parkins and Adam Scott Hendrickson were married and Girls Club and the Second Harvest Food Bank in San Jose. Syd was a
on July 8 in Chicago, IL at the Metropolitan Club in Willis Tower. Rabbi lifelong member and supporter of Temple Emanu-El in San Jose.
Michael Sommer officiated. Syd and Peggy Eller married in 2000 and enjoyed a loving marriage
The bride is the daughter of Patti Levin and Thomas Parkins, and for 17 years. They were avid horsemen and enjoyed riding their
the granddaughter of Sunie and Leon Levin. Megan graduated from Tennessee Walkers throughout California. Syd continued riding to the
Clemson University and works as the Marketing and Communications age of 90.
Coordinator at Temple Emanu-El in San Jose. Boulder Creek was Syd’s great garden. He loved the forest and
The groom is the son of Terri and Scott Hendrickson and the the trees, especially the “Spooning Tree” at Boulder Creek. He built his
grandson of Lynn and Ray Hendrickson and Howard and Barbara Bame. home in Boulder Creek from a tiny cabin into a family compound with
Adam attended Purdue University for both his bachelor’s and master’s paths, trails, barns and so much more. It always brought a sparkle to
degrees and works for Nvidia on their Computer Architecture team. his eye when his grandchildren and great-grandchildren wanted to
Adam and Megan fell in love in 2010 on the beaches of Lake go to Boulder Creek and ride horses with him. Syd made many happy
Michigan while in high school and maintained a long-distance memories for his family.
relationship throughout college. They now live in San Jose and are Syd is survived by his loving wife Peggy, son Gary, daughter Ginny
looking forward to their European honeymoon this October. Heldebrant (Charles), grandchildren Jonathan Levin (Ariel), Marc Levin
(Jennifer), Diana Levin (Evan Ben-Artzi), Michael Heldebrant (Jill) and
David Heldebrant (Elizabeth), and great-grandchildren Henry and Avery
Levin, Asher Levin, Ezra Ben-Artzi, Donar and Tyrus Heldebrant, Abigail
and Bryce Heldebrant.
Donations in lieu of flowers to Temple Emanu-El, the Alzheimer’s
Foundation, or to the charity of your choice.
HENRY JULES THAILER
January 25, 1935 –
June 2, 2017
Henry Thailer was the son of
Mollie and Benjamin Thailer and
was born in New York City. He
attended public schools in Brooklyn
and earned a bachelor’s degree
in civil engineering from City
College of New York. He went on to
Happy Rosh Hashana!
receive a Ph.D. from CCNY in civil
engineering as well and later went
on to wrote code for the Nuclear
Energy Commission.
He married Carol Pollak in
Rosa Bencuya Realtor® March of 1962. They moved to San
408.499.2077 Jose in 1975 and joined Temple
rosa@apr.com Emanu-El at that time. They raised their three daughters Deborah
HomeByRosa.com (Randy) Blumagen, Lisa (Greg) Wiviott and Jennifer (Steven) Winter in San
Serving Buyers and Sellers in Diverse Jose.
Communities of Silicon Valley Henry is survived by his wife, his three daughters and grandchildren
Alexis and Tawny Blumagen, Max, Mollie, Lilli and Annabelle Wiviott and
Call Today for More Information Austin, Carson and Jaxson Winter. He is also survived by his sister Sue
Wolf of Boca Raton.
Henry was a quiet man who lived with the vision of the prophet
APR.COM Micah in his mind. He sought justice in the world, was kind to others and
walked humbly with his friends and family. Donations in Henry’s memory
may be made to Temple Emanu-El or the American Cancer Society.
6 w w w . j v al l e y . o r g • L i k e us o n Fa c e b o o k ( j e w i s hs i l i c o nva l l e y) • Fo l l o w us o n T wit t er (@ jewis hs v)
CARRIE SOGG O B I T U A R I E S
October 31, 1962 - July 9, 2017
Carrie Sogg died in Brooklyn, NY after a long illness. The daughter of
Richard Sogg of Los Gatos and the late Joyce Sogg of Los Gatos, Carrie leaves
her husband Ralph Bonheim and son Stefan Bonheim, 12, of Brooklyn, NY, as
well as her brother David Sogg of Pittsburgh, PA. Carrie was gifted, funny,
and multi-talented. She lived three lives—as an animal lover, artist, and social
Los Gatos Memorial Park
worker. At age nine she acquired her first animal, a German Shepherd. From Shalom Garden
elementary through high school, she owned and trained two horses—first,
Bianca, a Welsh mare pony, and then Toy’s Flick-a-Spot, an Appaloosa—and won
Serving the Bay Area Jewish community since 1889
many ribbons in arena shows and trail obstacle course events. While living in Peaceful, park-like setting overlooking Santa Cruz Mountains
New York, she trained two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels—Bica and Cricket;
one became a therapy animal and both accompanying Carrie’s bird watching in
Prospect Park. *Pre Plan and receive a discount
A graduate of Saratoga High School, Carrie earned a degree in art from *Graveside Ceremonies in a serene setting
UC-Davis. Her friends benefited from her talent through annual New Year’s
*Upright monuments available
cards that always contained a visual pun based on the year, fanciful animals,
and (frequently) implicit political commentary. Her writing skills earned her *Trained funeral professionals
posts as a copy writer for prestigious New York firms. Her desire to benefit *Traditional caskets and ritual services
others led her to obtain a Masters in Social Work at Columbia University and
to work for several Brooklyn agencies. Though taken from us too soon, Carrie’s
passion, spirit, and wit persist in memories of her life and in the lives of her
husband and son, to whom so much of her life was devoted. Contributions in 2255 Los Gatos-Almaden Rd., San Jose, CA 95124
Carrie’s memory may be made to Planned Parenthood, Audubon Society, Good www.losgatosmemorialpark.com
(408) 356-4151
Dog Foundation, ACLU, or another organization.
MARTIN LEWIS STARR
January 12, 1948 - August 21, 2017
Born in Chicago, IL, Martin died
in Nashville, TN. He is survived by Darling-Fischer Mortuaries
his mother Maureen Starr, sisters Chapel of the Hills Garden Chapel Campbell Memorial Chapel
Nina and Debra Starr, brother Josh 615 N. Santa Cruz Ave. 471 E. Santa Clara St. 231 E. Campbell Ave.
Starr, son Zeke Starr and former wife Los Gatos, CA 95030 San Jose, CA 95112 Campbell, CA 95008
Kandance Starr. (408) 354-7740 (408) 998-2226 (408) 379-5010
FD940 FD557 FD898
Martin was a friend, mentor and
example to so many men and women www.darlingandfischer.com
both in Nashville and California. He
lived simply and was never concerned
with worldly things. People and
relationships meant more to him
and he had his priorities straight.
Professionally for the past 40 years
Martin was a licensed Alcohol and
Drug Abuse Counselor for adults, adolescents and families working in San
Rafael and San Cruz. He moved to Nashville in 1993. He worked as a group
therapist for the Center for Professional Excellence, C.P.E, before retiring in
2015. He had tirelessly devoted himself to helping others live a sober and sane
life. Martin had a gift for deep listening and hearing the pain in people’s lives,
an ability to see the truth, a quick wit and a brilliant mind. Martin wrote songs
and sang all of his life.
Martin had cancer. He’d fought this cancer for seven years and died at home
surrounded by love, hours before the eclipse on August 21. We his family are
grateful for the assistance provided by Alive Hospice Care in his final weeks.
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Time to Get Your Bake On
by Jeff Rosenplot
(Pictured) Diligent bakers at the 2016 “Let’s Twist
Again” Challah Bake event.
The only thing we can all agree on when it comes to challah is that our recipe is the best. Plain, salted, glazed, full of fruit or gluten-free,
challah’s magic comes from its individuality. Challah is the chameleon of Jewish food. There are almost as many variations to the recipe as there are Jews
in the world. It all comes down to a matter of taste and tradition.
Challah’s trademark braids are said to represent the commandments related to observing Shabbat delivered by Moses. The first two braids symbolize
both the safeguarding and the action of observing the Jewish Sabbath. The third strand of the challah symbolizes the tying together of the week, which
Shabbat is meant to represent. The braided challah is a reminder that the troubles and struggles of the week come to an end at sunset on Friday.
The Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley’s Women’s Philanthropy is hosting “Do The Twist,” a challah baking extravaganza on Wednesday, October 26
at 7pm. The event will be held in the APJCC Auditorium on the Levy Family Campus. Early bird tickets are $36 through October 15. This event is one of
Women’s Philanthropy’s most fun and popular, so don’t wait to purchase your tickets. You may purchase tickets online at www.giving.jvalley.org/challah
or in person at the Federation offices on campus. Questions? Call Roni Wolfe, Outreach & Engagement Coordinator at 408.357.7508.
3rd Annual Global Challah Making
DO THE
TWIST Wed., Oct. 26
7pm
early bird pricing
$36 $54 after Oct. 15
LEVY FAMILY CAMPUS prior to Oct. 15 CHAIR: LAUREN SMITH
Register online at
giving.jvalley.org/challah
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ASKTHECLERGY
Making Time for the High Holy Days
by Cantor Amanda Edmondson, Temple Emanu-El
“Thank G-d Yom Kippur is on a Saturday this year,” I my friend’s sleepover tonight?” And teenagers with heavy course-loads
will make very smart, logical arguments for not missing school that will be
overheard someone say recently. I can only assume that this had to do
with the need to take off work or for their kids to take off school for the difficult to counter-argue.
High Holy Days. Many of us run into this dilemma every year. For some But observing these holidays together as a family is what makes
of us, it’s a no-brainer: you just don’t go to work or school on Rosh Judaism what it is – a community. On the High Holy Days, we are
Hashanahh or Yom Kippur and that’s it. Others go through a painstaking encouraged to look inward and seek forgiveness for our own personal
process of deciding what will work best for themselves and their families. transgressions. However, the greater purpose of that activity is to work
Will it be easy to make up the work I missed? Will business run as usual to build up a better community. Going to High Holy Day services with
without me? My child has three big tests that day – how can I expect him your child is the perfect venue for teaching them what it means to be part
or her to find time to make those up? of a community. And the children who are in Hebrew school should be
It sucks that the rest of our society doesn’t immediately recognize encouraged to attend the regular community services for the High Holy
Rosh Hashanahh and Yom Kippur on the calendar when scheduling their Days. They have already begun to work on the Hebrew, and they are ready
activities. It can be downright frustrating—even, and perhaps especially, to start thinking about our liturgy and what it means. In fact, I believe that
when the powers that be are made aware of the conflicts—that nothing this new machzor (prayerbook) is the perfect one for those children AND
changes from year to year. But perhaps this societal ignorance is the adults who are either just starting to come to the High Holy Day services
exact reason we shouldn’t just get upset and complain only to give in. Our or are unfamiliar with Jewish liturgy. There are so many opportunities to
absence should be known. These days and services are important for both get lost—in a good way—in this prayerbook. There are multiple readings
ourselves and our children. on a two-page spread that offer different ways of interpreting and
Especially when it comes to our children, we must think about understanding traditional prayer.
the message we give them. If we expect them to embrace Judaism in Even if you think that your 3rd, 4th, or 5th grader won’t understand
their futures, we have to make a statement to them that says Judaism is the liturgy, I would challenge you to turn it into an opportunity. It can
important enough for us to sacrifice time at work, time at school, and simply be a beginning or a first step into a door that you will have opened
important enough for me to do extra work to make up for the time lost for your child. They don’t need to come away from services suddenly
either before or after the holiday. understanding every aspect of the holy days. But they should come away
Now I know that to children and teenagers, the sacrifice sounds more from services with the knowledge that this is a time for prayer, community
like, “I don’t want to miss soccer practice today” or “why do I have to miss gathering, and a time their parents and family recognize as important.
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Sunnyvale Doctor Organizes Bay Area
March of the Living Delegation by Jeff Rosenplot
For Josh Markowitz, a March of the Living trip he took in We’ve got swastikas in the streets. A trip like this one can resonate in a big
way with the next generation of leaders who are seeing the same things
college continues to resonate with him 15 years later.
“We went to Prague and then Poland and finally to Israel,” Markowitz we all are seeing.”
said. “The trip was a powerful, sobering experience. All the places I’d Originally from Menlo Park, Markowitz is an emergency room
grown up hearing about became real to me.” physician at Kaiser Permanente’s Santa Clara hospital. His wife, Alison
For Markowitz, the experience never left him. After serving as a Barnstable, is a veterinarian who has taken a leadership role in building
volunteer and then a staff member for the Western Delegation March of partnerships between the Muslim and Jewish communities. They are the
the Living, he realized that participation from the Bay Area was dwindling. parents of three sons.
There was no major delegation from Silicon Valley and the South Bay. To learn more about the South Bay March of the Living project, visit
“There’s a disconnect between the old world and the new one,” www.marchoflivingca.shutterfly.com, or by mail to Josh Markowitz, Attn:
Markowitz said. “Especially in Silicon Valley. We’re in danger of losing the MOTL Bay Area Delegation, 1077 Sargent Drive, Sunnyvale, CA 94087.
connection to what happened in Europe, and our own history.”
Markowitz is spearheading a March of the Living program that takes
the experience to a more personal level.
“We’re cognizant of the power of the experience,” Markowitz said.
“As well as making connections with the people they’re traveling with. We
pack the two-week trip pretty full, but want the participants to have some
free time, as well. We spend time together beforehand getting to know
each other. The friendships I made on my March of the Living trip have
stayed with me my entire life.”
The South Bay March of the Living two-week trip costs $6,600 per
person, which includes all domestic airfare and accommodations, as well
as meals and associated fees.
“It makes an impactful gift,” Markowitz said. “Parents, grandparents,
relatives, anyone can contribute to a participant’s trip. We’re also very
interested in talking with anyone in the community who is interested in
helping underwrite these trips.”
The March of the Living is an educational program organized by
the International March of the Living organization. It brings students
from around the world to Poland and Israel to learn firsthand what
the Holocaust meant and continues to mean today. The program was
established in 1988 and takes place immediately following Passover.
“Today more than ever, learning and remembering is essential,”
Markowitz said. “I never thought I’d be witnessing what I’m seeing today.
10 w w w . j v al l e y . o r g • L i k e us o n Fa c e b o o k ( j e w i s hs i l i c o nva l l e y) • Fo l l o w us o n T wit t er (@ jewis hs v)Sharone and Sequoia Hadassah Chapters
Meet with Congresswoman Anna Eshoo
By Felice Zenius, Hadassah Central Pacific Region, Domestic Advocacy Chair
The Sharone and Sequoia Hadassah Chapters of the Central Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Inc., was
founded in 1912 to help establish the Israeli medical care system. It
Pacific Coast Region held its first Day in the District meeting with
Congresswoman Anna Eshoo (D., 18th District of California). provides medical care through Hadassah’s Medical Organization to over
A team of ‘women who do’ from the 18th Congressional District met for one million patients a year regardless of race, religion or nationality
nearly an hour with Rep. Eshoo. Topics covered during the first Regional through Hadassah Medical Organization hospitals in Jerusalem and clinics
Day in the District included support of Israel, fighting Anti-Semitism and throughout Israel.
promoting women’s health equity, all issues for which the Congresswoman
is a strong advocate. Rep. Eshoo has supported combatting European
Anti-Semitism (H.R. 672) and agreed to support a special envoy to monitor
and combat Anti-Semitism (H.R. 1911), as well as the Simon Wiesenthal
Holocaust Education Assistance Act (H.R. 1474) and the Combatting Anti-
Semitism Act (H.R.1730). As a member of the Congressional Health Sub-
Committee, she supported the $2 billion budget for the National Institutes
of Health and has consistently supported Hadassah women’s health issues.
Each woman in attendance explained Hadassah’s positions on the issues
important to the group. Rabbi Laurie Matzkin described the make-up of
the local Jewish community and about Hadassah’s aim to perform acts of
tikkun olam. Rabbi Matzkin blew the shofar in honor of the second day
of Elul, the month when Jews prepare for the Jewish High Holy Days. The
clarion call of the shofar is a wake-up call to be one with ourselves and
help repair the world.
“Everything you said was a prayer,” the emotionally moved
Congresswoman said.
Rep. Eshoo addressed the string of threats and vandalism at Jewish
institutions in her district. “Leaders can either lead or mislead. We have
one who is misleading.” (Left to right) Jane Jacobson, Rabbi Laurie Matzkin, Congresswoman Anna Eshoo,
She agreed that Hadassah’s work is very necessary and added, “Blessed Felice Zensius, Miriam Rotman, Miriam Buzi and Ginny Baird.
are the peacemakers as they shall be called the children of G-d.”
w w w .jv alle y.or g • Like u s o n F ace b o o k ( j e w i sh si l i co n v a l l e y) • Fo l l o w us o n T w i t t e r ( @j e w i s hs v) 11Having Difficult Conversations
By Gordon Gladstone
In the aftermath of the election and the run up to 1:1). The two verbs
convey different
Thanksgiving there were innumerable stories in the media about the
task of navigating a family gathering littered with political (and cultural) elements of the
minefields. How many of us ran down a mental check list of subjects to command: seek peace
avoid during the holiday period? Don’t ask Uncle Jim what he thought when conflict comes
of the election, especially when your niece is in earshot. The resulting to your doorstep, but
mayhem would make talk radio seem like a walk in the park. do not stop there. You
As the Jewish year starts, we may benefit from asking ourselves if there must energetically
is a better way than simply limiting our conversations to the weather pursue opportunities to
and the state of the roads. Rabbi Amy Eilberg, who writes and conducts practice peace, near and
workshops where participants explore experiences of estrangement, far, for it is the work of
God.” Rabbi Amy Eilberg
conflict, and enmity in their interpersonal relationships, workplaces,
communities, and in relation to international conflicts, wrote recently Which is to say,
about the Jewish approach to this topic: that we are required by God to not only show compassion and work
“The Rabbis of the Talmud observed that most legislation in the Torah for peace, but that we should invest in trying to bridge the gaps of
is case law. If we find a lost object, we are to return it to its owner. If we understanding that exist between us. Therefore it is not enough to simply
own property, we must take precautions to ensure the safety of those who keep Uncle Jim and your niece away from each other, rather we need to
enter it. If we see our enemy’s animal struggling under its load, we are to work to strengthen the relationships we have with each. This is not about
help him. When Shabbat or a holy day comes, we are to observe it. conceding to their point of view but working to understand what they see,
Notably, two commandments are explicitly articulated not as and how they understand it.
responses to a particular situation, but as imperatives to be followed – Rabbi Eilberg will give a talk entitled The Art of Difficult Conversations
indeed, pursued – at all times. We are not only to act in accordance with at Congregation Shir Hadash on October 15 at 9:30am.
these imperatives passively when the occasion arises. We are to actively Rabbi Eilberg was the first Conservative woman rabbi, ordained by the
seek out opportunities to engage in them. The two cases are the pursuit Jewish Theological Seminary of American, and author of the new book,
of justice, of which it is said, “Justice, justice shall you pursue” (Deut. 16:20) From Enemy to Friend. In her writings she demonstrates how relationships
and the pursuit of peace, of which it is said, “Seek peace and pursue it” (Ps. can move from estrangement and wounding, entrenched bigotry and fear,
34:15). to positive, engaged encounter. She will be applying her teachings within
The rabbis assume that every apparently superfluous word in the our community to conversations with those having different views of
sacred text is there for a reason. In this case, they implicitly ask why the domestic and Israeli politics.
verse employs two verbs (“seek” and “pursue”) when one would have This program is part of a year-long series, Responding to the Crisis of
sufficed. Their answer: “Seek it in your place and pursue it in another Our Time, funded in part by the Newton and Rochelle Becker Charitable
place” (Babylonian Talmud Perek Hashalom and Jerusalem Talmud Peah Trust and in partnership with Jewish Learning Works of San Francisco.
12 w w w . j v al l e y . o r g • L i k e us o n Fa c e b o o k ( j e w i s hs i l i c o nva l l e y) • Fo l l o w us o n T wit t er (@ jewis hs v)Giving Life to a Traveling Holocaust Museum
by Iris Bendahan
This past Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Memorial Day, marked the resistance in its many forms, survival and justice using a large array of
posters, videos, books, articles and artifacts. Other stations delve into the
tenth anniversary of a Holocaust museum exhibit that I’ve been setting up
annually at Congregation Beth David (CBD) in Saratoga. The inspiration issue of genocide today, memorials, art, rebuilding and stories of survival
for the museum was seeded when I visited a make-shift Holocaust including those of local survivors.
museum exhibit at my elementary school in Israel in sixth grade. This The big question is what’s next for this exhibit? Especially at this time
visit was my first visual Holocaust exposure, it even included one of those of increased intolerance, it yearns to be an important educational tool
infamous ‘bars of soap’. Until then, my only clue to something called the to teach about the ramifications of genocide and intolerance through
Holocaust was my Savta (grandma) Manci’s frequent mutter of “yimah the lens of the Holocaust. Furthermore, a committee of community
shemo” (may his name be erased) when Hitler’s name was mentioned in members interested in increased Holocaust education in the area have
association with a Holocaust memory. And for my Savta, there were many met several times to discuss how this museum can best serve the needs of
memories (which I was unaware of) such as the murder of her family the Jewish community and the community at large. We decided that as a
members (parents and five siblings), her narrow escape from Danzig start it should have a transportable format that can be readily brought to
(with my grandfather and mother), and the five years of refugee camp synagogues, JCCs, churches, schools and other community institutions.
living. This exhibit visit brought me face to face with the reality of the We’ve named the exhibit CHAIM - California Holocaust Awareness and
Holocaust. It wasn’t just a story of woe my grandmother wove; I realized Action Interactive Museum (which also means ‘Life’ in Hebrew), and
then that it was real and it was something I needed to understand better threaded its new motto “Act with TACT,” Teach Acceptance, Compassion
and remember. and Tolerance, throughout the exhibit. We have created a website that
Years later, this experience prompted me as principal of Beth David’s is being updated with more and more information - check out www.
Religious School to also create a museum for my students. Most did not thechaim.org. Mayer Adelberg, CHAIM’s director of technology has done a
have firsthand experience to tell them the story of the Holocaust. Even wonderful job designing a logo and the website.
back then my thinking was that despite the motto “never forget,” genocide The first transportable version of the exhibit, which I put together
and intolerance was a continuing phenomenon in our world, and that it using the Morris Weiss award funds, was shown at the NewCAJE
was important that the next generation understand that even here we conference in Moraga, California in early August. We now need to get the
may not be immune to those societal characteristics that can lead to the business details figured out such as should CHAIM be an independent 501
extreme intolerance exhibited in the Holocaust. Little did I know how (c) (3) or can we get a sponsoring agent? Then we need a business license,
much truer this would become. and most importantly to apply for grant money to professionalize the look,
The first ‘museum’ occupied a small section of the art room and was transportability and advertising. If you’re interested in being a part of the
simply a display of the various Holocaust posters that I had found stashed CHAIM Team, or have some development experience, please contact me at
in a closet. However, the museum grew each year and this past year filled bendahan@thechaim.org.
Congregation Beth David’s new Board Room to capacity when it was up In the meantime, I finally tackled doing a genealogy search and was
for 3 weeks this past Yom HaShoah. Organized in timeline fashion, it able to find the names of my Savta Manci’s lost family who inspired
now takes the visitor through 18 (chai) stations which describe Jewish this venture. To Gershon, Zysl, Rosa, Anush, Edit, Piri and Ela and their
life of pre-war Europe, the Nazification of German-occupied countries, children, may your memory give CHAIM to a mobile Holocaust exhibit that
will inspire all who visit to Act with TACT!
Experience it all at the JCC!
Join us for Jewish education, enrichment classes,
programs, and much more.
Addison-Penzak JCC 14855 Oka Road, Los Gatos, CA 95032
of Silicon Valley 408.358.3636 | info@apjcc.org
Levy Family Campus www.apjcc.org
w w w .jv alle y.or g • Like u s o n F ace b o o k ( j e w i sh si l i co n v a l l e y) • Fo l l o w us o n T w i t t e r ( @j e w i s hs v) 13What’s Your Legacy?
by Jeff Rosenplot
“Are we being good ancestors?” Jonas Salk
That’s a great question, isn’t it? We spend so much of our lives been provided for. Depending on your own financial situation, you may
also choose to leave a percentage of your estate, a paid-up life insurance
focusing on what’s in front of us, sometimes we forget that we will become
someone’s ancestors someday. What sort of legacy do we want to leave for policy, a retirement account or any other financial investment. No matter
those who follow? how modest your estate, your gift will be appreciated.
The Community Legacy Project is a community-wide collaborative Brett Borah took over as chair of the Legacy Project this year, taking
program established by most Jewish organizations and synagogues in the the reins from Alan Werba, whose tireless leadership helped build the
South Bay with the sole purpose of building a lasting and enduring future. Project into one of the South Bay’s most successful Jewish philanthropic
Being Jewish means something different for everyone. Your reasons for endeavors. Over one hundred individuals and families have agreed to take
creating a Legacy fund are as personal as your own relationships with your part in the Community Legacy Project so far.
family and the community at large. Perhaps you want to ensure a strong If you haven’t considered a Legacy gift as part of your estate plan,
Jewish education. Or you support the outreach efforts of organizations we hope you’ll consider doing so. We want to make the process as
like Jewish Family Services. Maybe you want to ensure your grandchildren simple as possible. To get started, contact Jyl Jurman at 408.357.7500
are able to experience the power of holiday services at your synagogue. or by email at jyl@jvalley.org. For more information, visit www.
Whatever your reason, we want to help give you the opportunity to communitylegacyproject.org.
preserve it. The Community Legacy Project is a partnership between the following
The Community Legacy Project allows members of the Jewish Jewish organizations: Addison-Penzak Jewish Community of Silicon Valley;
community at any stage of life to designate a portion of their estate to any Congregation Beth David; Congregation Shir Hadash; Congregation Sinai;
of the nine different organizations that comprise the Legacy project. The Hillel of Silicon Valley; Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley; Jewish
Community Legacy Project also provides expert guidance throughout the Federation of Silicon Valley; Temple Emanu-El; and Yavneh Day School.
entire process.
The process for creating your own Legacy is straightforward. You “The little bit you and me might change the world, it wouldn’t show up
may choose as many Jewish organization members as you wish to receive until a hundred years after we were dead. We’d never see it. But it’d be
portions of your estate gift, or any assets left over after your family has there.” – James Joyce, From Here to Eternity
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center
Congregation Beth David
Congregation Shir Hadash
Congregation Sinai
Hillel of Silicon Valley
Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley
Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley
Temple Emanu-El
Yavneh Day School
What’s your legacy?
SILICONVALLEYJEWISHCOMMUNITY
Jewish tradition teaches that one of our key responsibilities is
to make the world a better place for future generations.
408.357.7500 www.communitylegacyproject.org
14 w w w . j v al l e y . o r g • L i k e us o n Fa c e b o o k ( j e w i s hs i l i c o nva l l e y) • Fo l l o w us o n T wit t er (@ jewis hs v)Republican or Democratic Food Pantry? No!
by Diane Fisher, JCRC Director
The American tax code is not a popular document, but one by certain fundamentalist religious groups. These groups are completely
free to speak their own values, but the Johnson Amendment requires them
thing that has been a popular feature is the extension of special tax-free
status to houses of worship and other nonprofits. Most people agree that to refrain from a subset of political speech, and it frees taxpayers from
nonprofits doing work for the common good are already doing their part subsidizing political endorsements with which they disagree.
to contribute to society in kind, without paying taxes to boot. A fundamental part of the JCRC’s work is to model and encourage civil
Tax exemption for nonprofits feels like a fundamental American dialogue, and the idea of adding partisanship to our houses of worship by
value—partly because its origin dates to tax codes that were first allowing clergy or nonprofit staff to promote candidates would be adding
developed starting in 1894, and evolved over a 75-year period. A fuel to the fire of our already divisive public discourse. We have worked
restriction was added to this code in 1954 called the Johnson Amendment, hard to provide a unique, safe haven in which community members can
and it’s a refinement that really helped maintain the integrity of charitable genuinely address challenges, exercise respectful listening, and include
organizations. Johnson won his campaign for senator from Texas that everyone’s problem-solving skills. Changing the framework of issues-
year, but his campaign was bedeviled by a nonprofit who used their funds focus to candidate-focus would destroy our fundamental value. After
to promote the idea that he was a Communist. Following the election, he generations of working to increase our common cause work across our
brought an amendment to the tax code to prohibit 501(c)(3) nonprofits diversity, we would devolve into partisan institutions working for the
from endorsing or opposing political candidates. It was not considered purposes of candidates promoting their own cause.
controversial at the time, and was passed by a Republican Congress and If the image of a food bank supported by one political party and
signed into law by President Eisenhower. serving only those of that party is an anathema, then we need to keep
The JCRC has been a very visible supporter of the Johnson the Johnson Amendment strongly in place. You can join your name to a
Amendment, for several reasons. As a minority group, Jewish interests letter that opposes any effort to repeal or weaken the current law, found
have always been served by a strong separation of religion and state. We’ve at www.faith-voices.org. There are currently over 4,000 signers, and the
come a long way from the days of prayer in school and shop closures letter is sponsored by, among many others, the Jewish Federations of
required on Sundays, but it’s not hard to imagine the “religious liberty” North America, the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, the Anti-Defamation
that could be implemented by candidates whose campaigns are funded League, and the Central Conference of American Rabbis.
Award-Winning Fitness Facility • Preschool • Jewish Day School K-8
State-of-the-Art Auditorium • On-Site Catering & Cafe
Event Rental Space • Community Mikvah • Mah Jongg Tournament
Swimming Pool • Tennis Courts • Silicon Valley Jewish
Music Festival • Counseling Services • JFS Knitzvah
Poker Tournament • PJ Library • Camps & Sports • Community
Challah Bake • Art Exhibits • Live Theater • Volunteer
Opportunities • Free 3-Day Fitness Pass • Home Care Services
408.358.3033 • jvalley.org
14855 Oka Road, Los Gatos, CA 95032
The Levy Family Campus is @jewishsiliconvalley @jewishsv
owned and operated by your
Jewish Federation of @jewishsiliconvalley
Silicon Valley.
HOME OF
www.apjcc.org www.jfssv.org
www.yavnehdayschool.org
w w w .jv alle y.or g • Like u s o n F ace b o o k ( j e w i sh si l i co n v a l l e y) • Fo l l o w us o n T w i t t e r ( @j e w i s hs v) 15Jasmine Yaghutiel competes for Team USA in a water polo match.
South Bay Athletes Compete
in the Maccabiah Games
They call it the Jewish Olympics. First held in 1932, the Maccabiah
Games are held every four years in Israel. The games are the third-largest
sporting event in the world (after the Olympics and the FIFA World Cup), with
more than 10,000 athletes competing.
The Jewish Federation was excited to help send four young athletes to the
2017 Maccabiah Games held in Jerusalem in July. Ron Belman, Lavie Levi, Dan
Sachs and Jasmine Yaghutiel competed for Team USA.
For the first time, the countries of the Bahamas, Cambodia, the Cayman
Islands, Haiti, Malta, Morocco, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea
and Trinidad joined the competition, bringing the total number of nations
participating to over 100. The American delegation alone sent 650 athletes.
“It was a very positive experience at the games,” Jasmine Yaghutiel said.
“I met countless incredible people and had the experience of a lifetime. I’ve
never represented my country in such a meaningful way before and it is
something I will never forget.”
The opening ceremonies of the Maccabiah Games took place at Teddy
Stadium in Jerusalem, with over 30,000 people in attendance. A torch-
lighting ceremony and an impromptu marriage proposal by Canadian ice
hockey player Avi Steinberg capped off the ceremony.
“I have to admit that at first, I was adamantly against going on a trip with
a hundreds of Americans I barely knew to a country spotted with family
members,” said athlete Dan Sachs. “But it was fun to train and look forward
to the competition on the national stage, even if at the end I did not get the
result I was hoping for. Those few weeks gave me something to remember
for a lifetime. There are people whom I still talk to and group chats that are
frequently filled with inside jokes about things you could only understand if
you were there.”
Members of the Team USA delegation to the Maccabiah Games pose in the
hills surrounding Jerusalem.
16 w w w . j v al l e y . o r g • L i k e us o n Fa c e b o o k ( j e w i s hs i l i c o nva l l e y) • Fo l l o w us o n T wit t er (@ jewis hs v)(Clockwise from top left) Ms. Shandrovsky (Jewish Studies teacher) and student; Group of smiling juniors and Mr. Schloss (math teacher); Group of smiling Kehillah students (class of 2021); Students restoring Half Moon Bay coastline; Kehillah Student Government hosted a class lip-syncing battle during Kabbalat Shabbat festivities. In this picture, Alex Leiman is representing the junior class; Shirley Brill (class of 2018) removing invasive plant species. Kehillah Habitat Restoration The students and staff of Kehillah Jewish High School in Palo Alto recently spent the day working together on a habitat restoration, service learning project in Half Moon Bay. The project focused on removing invasive, non-native plants. The marine terraces around Half Moon Bay were once entirely covered in native coastal scrub, but decades of coastal development and agricultural practices changed this landscape. Restoration creates habitat for the native plant species that are at the base of the food chain for coastal wildlife. Kehillah students and staff put on their gardening gloves, grabbed rakes and shovels, and helped restore this beautiful, natural coastline. Followed by some fun on the beach and the first of their weekly Kabbalat Shabbat (welcoming the sabbath) programming, hosted by Kehillah’s Student Government. w w w .jv alle y.or g • Like u s o n F ace b o o k ( j e w i sh si l i co n v a l l e y) • Fo l l o w us o n T w i t t e r ( @j e w i s hs v) 17
26TH ANNUAL
OCT 21-NOV 12
SILICON JOIN US FOR AN EXCITING TWO
WEEKS AT AMC SARATOGA 14 AND
VALLEY TWO WEEKS OF SCREENINGS AT
JEWISH THE OFJCC IN PALO ALTO.
FILM TICKETS: WWW.SVJFF.ORG
FESTIVAL 800-838-3006
2 017 SCHEDULE SPECIA L E V E NTS
OFJCC OCT 23, 6:30pm A Second Time Around* O PE N I N G N I GH T
OFJCC OCT 23, 8:30pm In Between*
GAL A EVE N T
OFJCC OCT 24, 6:30pm Germans and Jews*
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2 1 , 201 7
OFJCC OCT 24, 8:30pm The 90 Minute War*
6:30 PM AT THE OFJCC
OFJCC OCT 25, 6:30pm Aida’s Secrets*
Join us for Opening Night Event with
OFJCC OCT 25, 8:30pm An Israeli Love Story*
the Northern California premiere
OFJCC OCT 26, 6:30pm Sara Stein*
of “Jungle” and our special guests,
OFJCC OCT 26, 8:30pm Keep the Change*
author/speaker Yossi Ghinsberg and
AMC14 OCT 28, 6:30pm A Second Time Around*
producer Dana Lustig. Discussion and
AMC14 OCT 28, 8:30pm The 90 Minute War*
reception to follow.
AMC14 OCT 29, 3:00pm 1945*
AMC14 OCT 29, 5:00pm Past Life
AMC14 OCT 29, 7:30pm An Israeli Love Story* CEN T E R PI ECE EVE N T
AMC14 OCT 30, 6:30pm Aida’s Secrets* SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 201 7
AMC14 OCT 30, 8:30pm The Women’s Balcony 7:00PM AT THE
AMC14 OCT 31, 4:00pm Joe’s Violin* (FREE) AMC SARATOGA 1 4
AMC14 OCT 31, 4:30pm Menashe* MONDAY, NOVEMB ER 6, 2 01 7
AMC14 OCT 31, 6:30pm Hanna’s Sleeping Dogs 6:30PM AT THE OFJCC
AMC14 NOV 1, 6:30pm Germans and Jews* IN PALO ALTO
AMC14 NOV 1, 8:30pm Keep the Change* Join us for the Centerpiece Event with
AMC14 NOV 2, 4:30pm A Quiet Heart the Northern California premiere of
AMC14 NOV 2, 6:30pm The Bloom of Yesterday “My Hero Brother” and our special
AMC14 NOV 4, 6:30pm Sara Stein* guest, director Yonatan Nir.
AMC14 NOV 4, 8:30pm In Between*
AMC14 NOV 5, 1:30pm Joe’s Violin* (FREE) CLOSI N G N I GH T
AMC14 NOV 5, 3:00pm Fanny’s Journey* SPECI AL E VE N T
AMC14 NOV 5, 5:00pm Family Commitments* SATURDAY, NOVEMB ER 1 2,
AMC14 NOV 5, 7:00pm My Hero Brother* 2 01 7, 6:00PM AT THE
OFJCC NOV 6, 8:30pm Moos OFJCC IN PALO ALTO
OFJCC NOV 7, 6:30pm Menashe* Join us for the Closing Night screening
OFJCC NOV 7, 8:30pm Norman of “Ben-Gurion, Epilogue,” with special
OFJCC NOV 8, 6:30pm 1945* guests, director Yariv Mozer, and
OFJCC NOV 8, 8:30pm Between Worlds David Ben-Gurion’s grandson,
OFJCC NOV 9, 6:30pm Family Commitments* Alon Ben-Gurion. Discussion and
OFJCC NOV 9, 8:30pm Fanny’s Journey* reception to follow.
*Indicates two screenings during the Festival
Marc and Paula Levitt
are proud sponsors of the Silicon Valley Jewish Film Festival
Marc E Levitt Ph.D. CTA, creator of two award winning quantitative managed futures programs
www.svquant.com ● (408) 623-6388 ● National Futures Association ID: 0311607
Not an offer for a managed futures account. Past performance not a guarantee of future performance.
Community
Relations
OF SILICON VALLEY Council
18 w w w . j v al l e y . o r g • L i k e us o n Fa c e b o o k ( j e w i s hs i l i c o nva l l e y) • Fo l l o w us o n T wit t er (@ jewis hs v)The 26th Annual Silicon Valley Jewish Film Festival
by Michelle Shabtai
The 2017 Silicon Valley Jewish Film Festival (SVJFF) kicks Jose on November 5 at 7pm, and in Palo Alto on November 6 at 6:30pm.
Special guest, director Yonatan Nir, an award-winning filmmaker who
off its 26th annual events, beginning October 21st until November 12th.
A diverse range of films will be screened at the Oshman Family Jewish has been telling stories for over a decade—from epic photojournalist
Community Center (OFJCC) in Palo Alto, and at the AMC Saratoga 14 reports to the critically acclaimed Dolphin Boy that screened in over one
cinema in San Jose. hundred and thirty film festivals—will be at both venues for post-screening
“This year is unique,” says Margalit Raviv, SVJFF’s Program Director. discussions with the audience. My Hero Brother follows a group of young
“We’re screening more West Coast and Northern Californian premieres people with Down syndrome as they embark on a demanding trek through
than ever before. The films we’re showing come from all over the world, the Himalayas with their siblings. They deal with physical and emotional
showcasing a variety of languages, cultures and lifestyles. We hope to challenges, unresolved conflicts, as well as developing of heartwarming
draw a multicultural audience.” friendships.
“The special opening night gala event, on October 21 at 6:30pm Closing night takes place November 12 at 6pm in Palo Alto, and
in Palo Alto, features the Northern California premiere screening of will feature a screening of Ben-Gurion, Epilogue, a documentary that
Jungle, followed by a discussion and reception with special guests Yossi spotlights newly discovered 1968 interview footage of David Ben-Gurion,
Ghinsberg—author, adventurer, high-tech entrepreneur, humanitarian and the primary founder of the State of Israel and the first Prime Minister of
motivational speaker—who is the subject of the film, and Dana Lustig the Israel. Ben-Gurion reveals his prophecy, his dedication to Zionism and a
movie’s producer,” reveals Tzvia Shelef, Executive Director of the SVJFF. life filled with self-examination. “We are thrilled to have Yariv Mozer, the
“We’re super excited that Yossi will be joining us for the first weekend film director and producer, as a returning guest to the SVJFF. Alon Ben-
of ‘Jungle’s’ nationwide premiere. He is a fascinating personality and a Gurion, David Ben-Gurion’s grandson, will join Mozer for a Q&A session
wonderful speaker.” after the screening,” says Margalit Raviv.
Jungle, directed by Greg McLean, is based on the true events Also noteworthy is Joe’s Violin, a short documentary that shows how
experienced by Yossi in the Amazon jungle. His bestselling book, originally a 91-year old Holocaust Survivor’s violin donation, during an instrument
titled ‘Back from Tuichi,’ sold millions of copies and has been translated drive, changes the life of a 12-year old Bronx girl. The public is invited
into fifteen languages. The movie adaptation tells the story of an to a free screening at the AMC Saratoga 14, on October 31st at 4pm. On
enthusiastic young adventurer (played by Daniel Radcliffe) who follows November 5th at 1:30pm, there will be another free screening at the same
his dreams into the Amazon jungle with two friends and a guide with a venue, where Brianna, the 12-year old protagonist from the film, will join
mysterious past. Their journey quickly turns into a terrifying ordeal as as a special guest.
the darkest elements of human nature and the deadliest threats of the “This year’s festival has had more returning Patron Donors and
wilderness lead to an all-out fight for survival. “It took twenty-seven years Sponsors than in previous years,” says Tzvia Shelef, “and we are excited
since I arrived in Hollywood in 1990, with a manuscript in my hand and a that the SVJFF founders, Fagie Rosen and Burt Epstein, will be here with
dream in my eyes,” says Yossi Ghinsberg. “Some dreams take a life-long us again this year.” It is still possible to become a Patron Donor at different
time to fulfill. The journey is the destination.” The film is produced by Gary levels: visit www.svjff.org/securedonation, or call 408.498.0904 for more
Hamilton, Mike Gabrawy, Dana Lustig, Todd Fellman and Greg McLean. information. To watch film trailers and purchase tickets for screenings
The Centerpiece screenings of My Hero Brother, will be held in San visit: www.svjff.org
w w w .jv alle y.or g • Like u s o n F ace b o o k ( j e w i sh si l i co n v a l l e y) • Fo l l o w us o n T w i t t e r ( @j e w i s hs v) 19You can also read
