Heidi Gantwerk

Passover Observance is Relevant for Current Moment

I have been reflecting on the enduring relevance of the Passover holiday, and why the story of the Exodus always seems to meet the current moment. I wish that was not true; that instead the story of Passover felt purely historical. But this year especially, it feels more relevant than ever. [Heidi Gantwerk]

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Antisemitism, Books, Poetry & Short Stories, Heidi Gantwerk, Jewish Religion, San Diego County, Staff and Bylined Contributors

A Busy Week for San Diego’s Jewish Federation

Every Monday morning, our entire Federation staff sits down for a 30-minute “huddle.” We talk about what’s happening in the world, share joyful simchas and heartbreaking tragedies, reflect on the past week’s “wins,” and brief everyone on what’s coming in the week ahead. [Heidi Gantwerk]

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Antisemitism, Heidi Gantwerk, International, Israel, San Diego County, Science, Medicine, & Education, Staff and Bylined Contributors, Travel and Food, USA

Guarding Jewish Teens’ Mental Health

In survey after survey, teens in the U.S. report increasing levels of anxiety, depression, bullying (in person and online), traumatic experiences, and even suicidal thoughts. Ninety-two percent of teens report extended use of screens on a daily basis. And, over 40% report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. [Heidi Gantwerk]

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Heidi Gantwerk, Lifestyles, San Diego County, Science, Medicine, & Education, Staff and Bylined Contributors, Travel and Food, USA

Update on Southern California Wildfire Relief Efforts

These Jewish communities have been extensively impacted. According to the reporting of 27 organizations, we know so far:  446 families (approximately 1,353 individuals) have lost their homes completely. 451 families (approximately 1,514 individuals) have damaged/uninhabitable homes. 47 families have lost their businesses. Approximately 20 professionals who work in the Jewish community have lost their homes. [Heidi Gantwerk]

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California, Heidi Gantwerk, Jewish History, Philanthropy & Volunteerism, San Diego County, Staff and Bylined Contributors

Jewish Federation San Diego Announces the Start of the Season Giving Campaign with “Hineni”

As December unfolds, the spirit of giving glows warmly around us. This is a time to embody the word hineni – “here I am” – and to bring light and safety to our community. [Jewish Federation of San Diego]

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California, Heidi Gantwerk, Jewish Religion, San Diego County, Staff and Bylined Contributors

Counting Our Blessing Every Friday Night

When my kids were very young, we had a Thanksgiving tradition (no doubt like so many other American families) of going around the table and saying what we were thankful for. The answers ranged from the sublime to the ridiculous, depending on the age and mood of the three boys. [Heidi Gantwerk]

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Heidi Gantwerk, Jewish Religion, Lifestyles, San Diego County, Staff and Bylined Contributors

S.D. Jewish Federation Strengthens Ties with Grieving Sha’ar Hanegev

Where else but in Israel do you get in a cab only to hear a beautiful version of Unetaneh Tokef on the radio? Where else but in Israel does your airline pilot welcome you upon landing with a Chag Sameach, Shanah Tovah and G’mar Chatimah Tovah?  [Heidi Gantwerk]

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Heidi Gantwerk, Israel, San Diego County, Staff and Bylined Contributors, USA

Choosing Blessings Over Curses in San Diego’s Jewish Community

We always have the power to choose, no matter the circumstances surrounding us. Today, so many of us are choosing to spend time and resources defending the Jewish people, making our community safer, and supporting Israel in her time of need. We are choosing to do this because it answers the questions of who we are and where we are, and what kind of people we want to be. [Heidi Gantwerk]

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Heidi Gantwerk, Israel, San Diego County, Staff and Bylined Contributors, USA

Woeful News from Israel; Mixed News from Olympics and at Home

This week, I found my attention torn in so many directions. We marked the unthinkable 300th day of war in Israel since October 7 and the heartbreaking 300th day of captivity for the remaining hostages. The terrible attack in Majdal Shams, the increasingly tense situation in the North of Israel, and our own divisive election cycle competed for views with the pageantry, patriotism, and moments of incredible athleticism of the Olympics. [Heidi Gantwerk]

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Heidi Gantwerk, International, Israel, San Diego County, Staff and Bylined Contributors, USA