By Heidi Gantwerk SAN DIEGO — Almost 30 years ago, my husband and I moved from New York to San Diego for a quick two-year post-doc. Clearly, our plans changed, and we have made a rich, rewarding life for our family here in San Diego. Through our synagogue, chavurah, the JCC, San Diego Jewish Academy […]
The Special Relevance of Passover This Year Read More »
Heidi Gantwerk, San Diego CountyBy Heidi Gantwerk SAN DIEGO — A few weeks ago I had the privilege of listening to Deborah Lipstadt speak in conversation with Rabbi Jason Nevarez in a wide-ranging discussion about security, antisemitism, racism, Holocaust denial, and Jewish identity. She was asked how she stays standing given all the ugliness she deals with and teaches
A Stronger, More Rooted San Diego Jewish Community Read More »
Heidi Gantwerk, Opinion, San Diego CountyBy Heidi Gantwerk Last Saturday, we all followed the attack in Colleyville, fearful of the worst possible ending as we also were reminded of our own local past tragedies. The Jewish Federation of San Diego County and ADL San Diego were in touch immediately to share updates and discuss potential local warnings. Federation also was
From Darkness to Light Read More »
Heidi Gantwerk, San Diego CountyBy Heidi Gantwerk SAN DIEGO — During turbulent times, Jewish Federation of San Diego County is laser focused on caring for Jews in need. More than 10,000 Jews in San Diego live at or near the poverty line, including includes seniors, Holocaust Survivors, single parents, and people with disabilities and mental illness. The Federation is
Taking Care of Holocaust Survivors: Our Collective Responsibility Read More »
Heidi Gantwerk, San Diego CountyBy Heidi Gantwerk I write this Shabbat message from Israel, where I am filled with emotion and excitement—even though I’m still in quarantine, having only landed here earlier today. If you’ve been here, you know. There is just nothing like being in Israel with its inspiring, vibrant mix of ancient and new, traditional and innovative,
Strengthening People-to-People Relationships, from San Diego to Sha’ar HaNegev Read More »
Heidi Gantwerk, San Diego County