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NEW THIS YEAR! NEW TIMES, NEW FORMATS.
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Morning Coffee Conversation |
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Evening Talk |
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Lunch & Talk |
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In the Mix Lit |
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Talk @ 2 & 3 |
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Global Day of Jewish Learning |
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Tea & Talk |
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Opening Night - Wednesday, November 3
Wednesday Evening Talk - SOLD OUT
7:30 p.m.. ..........Mosab Hassan Yousef, Son of Hamas: A Gripping Account
of Terror, Betrayal, Political Intrigue and Unthinkable Choices
This is a rare opportunity to meet the eldest son of the founder of Hamas,
Mosab Hassan Yousef. Although born into terrorism, he is today a changed man.
His conversion began after leaving prison in Israel—where he was jailed at age
18—when he discovered the message of loving one’s enemies. With this in mind,
he began working with Israel’s Shin Bet to prevent the kind of havoc he once
wreaked. They saved hundreds of lives on both sides while repeatedly risking their
own, and Yousef eventually found that hating hearts can change, while changed
hearts can lead to peace and freedom in Palestine. Don’t miss this chance to meet
a man whose spiritual autobiography is “more incendiary than any roadside IED”
(GQ Magazine).
Admission: $14.00/Member; $17.00/Non-Member
LITERARY CIRCLE PARTNER WITH THE AUTHOR, DR. BOB & MAO SHILLMAN AND THE SHILLMAN FOUNDATION
Thursday, November 4
Morning Coffee Conversation/
Jewish Contribution to Business and Finance
10:00 a.m ..........Jerry Muller, Capitalism and the Jews
Are you ready for a provocative topic? Have coffee with Jerry Muller, author of the new
release, Capitalism and the Jews. Money has always been a source of both pride and
condemnation within and outside of the Jewish community. Professor Muller—neither
Judaeophile nor Judaeophobe, but an objective historian—mines social, religious, and
economic factors to trace the historical development of the successful (and often
positive) association of Jews and capitalism.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $6.00/Member; $8.00/Non-Member
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Lunch & Talk/Jewish Contribution
12:00 p.m...........Steven Pease, The Golden Age of Jewish Achievement: The Compendium
of a Culture, a People and Their Stunning Performance
Celebrate highlights in Jewish history with Steven Pease as he discusses his “tribute to
an astonishing tribe of high achievers.” His fascinating new book documents the record
of wide-ranging Jewish achievement throughout history, particularly since the Enlighten -
ment. The author will share numerous Jewish cultural factors and events that nurtured
these individual and collective achievements, and shed new light on Judaism’s
contributions to the world.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $14.00/Member; $17.00/Non-Member
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Talks @ 2
2:00 P.M. ..........Marilyn Berger, This Is a Soul: The Mission of Rick Hodes
If you have ever asked yourself, “How can one person make a difference?” then this is the
event for you. Former Washington Post reporter and renowned journalist Marilyn Berger
passionately recounts the life of Dr. Rick Hodes, “the Jewish Father Theresa,” who has
cared for the sickest of the sick and the poorest of the poor in Ethiopia for nearly 30
years. This uplifting and transformative celebration fulfills our dream that there is still
kindness and empathy in what is often an unjust world. Meet the author
as she shares the story of one of the world’s most remarkable men.
Book Signing Follows • Free Admission
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Tea & Talk
4:00 P.M..........Cathleen Schine, The Three Weissmanns of Westport
Her books have topped bestseller lists all over the world. She has written for The New
Yorker, The New York Times, and many other publications. And she is joining us for a
very special Tea & Talk centered on her latest novel, The Three Weissmanns of Westport, an
homage to Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility loaded with flawed characters, stinging
satire, unexpected plot twists, social commentary, and countless references to renowned
artists and authors. It is a unique niche: the intellectually stimulating beach read.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $6.00/Member; $8.00/Non-Member
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Thursday Evening Talk - Adult Education Night
7:30 P.M. .....Todd Gitlin, The Chosen Peoples:
America, Israel and the Ordeals of Divine Election
Todd Gitlin, a new Left activist has never been afraid of controversy. And this event will be no
exception. Join the author as he discusses his latest book, which examines the U.S.-Israel
relationship. Although the countries share clear strategic interests, Gitlin claims they also
share a raison d’etre: both nations exist as Chosen Peoples entrusted to deliver an enlightened
message to a dark troubled world. Provocative and timely, The Chosen Peoples makes the case
that our two nations and our sacred bond can thrive only when we take seriously our belief in
our “chosenness,” and the responsibility it entails.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $14.00/Member; $17.00/Non-Member
ADULT EDUCATION NIGHT CO-SPONSORED BY:
AGENCY FOR JEWISH EDUCATION OF SAN DIEGO COUNTY • CONGREGATION BETH AM • CONGREGATION BETH EL
CONGREGATION BETH ISRAEL • HILLEL OF SAN DIEGO • JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE • OHR SHALOM SYNAGOGUE
TEMPLE SOLEL • TEMPLE ADAT SHALOM •TEMPLE EMANU-EL • TIFERETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE
LITERARY CIRCLE PARTNER WITH THE AUTHOR, JEWISH FEDERATION OF SAN DIEGO COUNTY
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Friday, November 5
Morning Coffee Conversation
Two talented Jewish San Diegans speak about their life’s work
10:00 A.M. .......Jeff Rossman, From Terra’s Table, New American Food,
Fresh From Southern California’s Organic Farms
Wondering what all the local/sustainable/organic fuss is about? Basically, it’s a way
to eat—and to think about food—that helps fight childhood obesity, helps preserve
the environment, and helps support the local economy. Meet San Diego’s own Jeff
Rossman—chef/owner of Hillcrest’s acclaimed Terra restaurant—when he presents
his new cookbook, From Terra’s Table, which features 140 delicious, creative dishes, and
shares a better way to eat, one that will benefit our children, our town, and our planet.
Book Signing Follows • Free Admission
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11:00 A.M. .......Lisa Slovis Mandel, Pewter Studio
Accomplished metalsmith, Lisa Slovis Mandel, shares her passion for pewter in a talk
about her new book Pewter Studio. Join Lisa for an opportunity to learn about and see
some of her extraordinary work in Judaica that has also landed her a coveted place in
500 Judaica: Innovative Contemporary Ritual Art.
Book Signing Follows • Free Admission
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Lunch & Talk/Jewish Contribution
12:00 P.M..........Sam Hoffman,Old Jews Telling Jokes: 5000 Years of Funny Bits
and Not-So-Kosher Laughs
Jackie Mason. Mel Brooks. YOU. Get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to share your
favorite jokes with Jews across the nation. This "lunch and laugh" event will give you the
opportunity to spend time and enjoy jokes with movie producer and writer Sam Hoffman
as he shares the best bits from his wildly popular book (and website), Old Jews Telling
Jokes. Bring your appetite and your best jokes to the table. Sam may even use your
favorite joke on his website or in his next book!
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $14.00/Member; $17.00/Non-Member
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COMMUNITY HOST CJC JEWISH COMEDY SERIES
Saturday, November 6
Saturday Evening Talk and Reception
6:00 P.M. ..........Exclusive Underwriter Reception
7:30 P.M. .....Gary Shteyngart, Super Sad True Love Story: A Novel
in conversation with Mark Oppenheimer
Oh, Say Can You… Read? Don’t miss what is sure to be one of this year’s highlights when two
of America’s smartest and oh-so-funny writers ponder and poke fun at what it means to be—
or not to be!—a well-read, articulate person in America. In his latest novel, A Super Sad True Love
Story, Gary Shteyngart (The Russian Debutante’s Handbook, Absurdistan) depicts a completely illiterate
America—nobody reads, everyone “rates” (iPhone-like applications reveal your credit score at
parties) and everybody speaks in acronyms (OMG!).Joining him will be Mark Oppenhiemer,
whose Wisenheimer: A Childhood Subject to Debate tells his true-life tale of finding an outlet for his
precocious hyperarticulation. These two authors will be discussing their equally off-beat views of
being wordy in America…
be prepared to LOL (Laugh out Loud).
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $14.00/Member; $17.00/Non-Member
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LITERARY CIRCLE PARTNER WITH THE AUTHOR, SHEILA POTIKER
Sunday, November 7
Global Day of Jewish Learning
Special Sessions: Open to the Community
Presented in Partnership with the Agency for Jewish Education
Commemorating the 45-year-long project of renowned Jewish teacher Rabbi adin steinsaltz, Jewish communities worldwide are
participating in a day of Jewish learning. aJe is the Community liaison for the global day of Jewish learning, san diego.
Morning Coffee Conversation/
Jewish Contribution to Business and Finance
10:00 A.M. .......Rabbi Michael Leo Samuel, Birth and Rebirth Through Genesis:
A Timeless Theological Conversation
Learn how the various voices of the ancient biblical writers co-exist within and create a spiritual
text that informs and enlightens. Join in a fascinating discussion as Rabbi Samuel examines the
different interpretations in the story of the Akedah–the Binding of Abraham. Find out why this
story has endured as one of the best known of the Bible. Rabbi Samuel, author, theologian
and biblical scholar, is the Rabbi at Temple Beth Shalom, Chula Vista.
Book Signing Follows • Free Admission • Community Host: Temple Beth Shalom, Chula Vista.
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Talks @ 2 & 3
2:00 P.M. ..........Paula Shoyer, The Kosher Baker: 160 Dairy-free Recipes from Traditional to Trendy
Find out how kosher cooking can be taken to the next level. Meet author, pastry chef, and
cooking instructor Paula Shoyer as she offers 160 inspired, innovative dairy-free recipes as
proof that kosher cooking can be a culinary cornucopia. From traditional rugelach, orange
cake and peanut butter cookies to trendy mousses, “cream cheese” frosting and even creme
brulee, Shoyer’s creations are delightfully delicious and always dairy-free
Book Signing Follows • Free Admission
3:00 P.M. ..........Noah Hadas, “Talmud for Dummies”
One of San Diego’s beloved Jewish educators makes the Talmud accessible to all in this quick
tutorial, humorously entitled, “Talmud for Dummies.” Noah Hadas and the AJE invite you to learn
what the Talmud is, why it is important and how to study it as we celebrate the most significant
book in “Jewish literature.” Noah is the Director of Community Adult Education at the Agency for
Jewish Education in San Diego County and produces MAKOR Adult Education and Cultural Events
Catalog. He teaches Florence Melton Adult Mini-School classes at the Lawrence Family JCC.
Free Admission
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PRESENTED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE AGENCY FOR JEWISH EDUCATION
Lunch & Talk
12:00 P.M..........Rodger Kamenetz, Burnt Books: Rabbi Nachman of Bratzlav and Franz Kafka
Rodger Kamenetz and Tablet editor Gabriel Sanders discuss Kamenetz’ latest book,
Burnt Books: Rabbi Nachman of Bratslav and Franz Kafka. The groundbreaking double
biography discovers amazing parallels in the lives of the great, prescient Franz Kafka—
a secular Jew intrigued by Jewish mysticism—and Rabbi Nachman of Bratslav, a mystical
Hasidic storyteller who inspired secular Jews. Both died young from tuberculosis… both
struggled to find meaning in an imperfect, unjust world… and both ordered that their
unfinished writings be burned when they died. This is a must for fans of Kafka in
particular and literature overall.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $14.00/Member; $17.00/Non-Member
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SPONSORED BY TABLET MAGAZINE, THE ONLINE RESOURCE FOR JEWISH ARTS AND CULTURE
COMMUNITY PARTNER: SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY, JEWISH STUDIES PROGRAM
Community Wide Event - Yitzhak Rabin Commemoration
“I, military I.D. number three-zero-seven-four-three, retired general in the Israeli Defense Forces in the past, consider myself to be a soldier
in the army of peace today... Today we are embarking on a battle which has no dead and no wounded, no blood and no anguish. This is the
only battle which is a pleasure to wage: the battle for peace.”
—Yitzhak Rabin
4:00 P.M. ..........Tribute
Join us in the David and Dorothea Garfield Theatre as we pay tribute to Yitzhak Rabin,
the late Prime Minister of Israel whose life’s work on behalf of the Jewish people, the
state of Israel and the pursuit of peace is an inspiration to us today.
4:15 P.M. ..........Joel Hoffman, And God Said: How Translations Conceal the
Bible’s Original Meaning
Ever wonder what the Bible said before it was translated—and mistranslated!—over and
over again…? Then you must attend this talk with Joel Hoffman, author of And God Said.
Hoffman is a linguist, historian, sleuth, and master storyteller, and will be exploring what
the Bible really said before mistranslation obscured its meaning. Using contemporary pop
culture to clarify the text for the modern reader, Hoffman brings Biblical teachings into the
21st century. Come learn what isn’t true about the Ten Commandments!
Book Signing Follows • Free Admission
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Special Evening of Comedy
6:30 P.M. ..........CJC In the Mix Reception
Joel Chasnoff, The 188th Crybaby Brigade: A Skinny Jewish Kid from Chicago Fights Hezbollah: A Memoir
He cut his comedy teeth opening up for Jon Stewart and Lewis Black of The Daily Show.
But his real education came in his 20s when he joined a tank brigade of 18-year-old
Israelis: baby-faced officers, tough-as-nails sergeants, and mama’s boys who feign
injury and diarrhea to avoid guard duty and KP. Come hear this gifted stand-up
comedian perform his side-splitting comedy act and talk a bit about his hilarious
coming-of-age tale, which brings us face-to-face with the absurdity of life
sometimes found in Israel and its army.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $16.00/Member; $20.00/Non-Member
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COMMUNITY CO-HOSTS, IN THE MIX AND YAD
LITERARY CIRCLE PARTNER WITH THE AUTHOR, SELTZER, CAPLAN MCMAHON VITEK, A LAW CORPORATION
Monday, November 8
Morning Coffee Conversation
10:00 A.M. .......Naomi Levy, Hope Will Find You: My Search for the Wisdom to
Stop Waiting and Start Living
Start your day off with a cup of coffee, an inspired mind, and a hopeful heart. When
Rabbi Naomi Levy’s daughter was diagnosed with a degenerative brain disease, she
was forced to personally confront the issues in which she’d previously only counseled
others. Her poignant story—Hope Will Find You—shows us how to embrace imper fection
and find hope, rather than waiting for life to begin. Join the author and hear
her truly inspiring story.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $6.00/Member; $8.00/Non-Member
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COMMUNITY HOST, WATERS OF EDEN/SAN DIEGO COMMUNITY MIKVAH AND EDUCATION CENTER
Lunch & Talk/Jewish Contribution
12:00 p.m. .....Avinoam Lourie, A Bear in My Bed & A Jackal in My Oven:
Adventures of An Israeli Wildlife Zoologist
Bamboozled by a chimpanzee, mangled by a tiger, and gored by a jealous deer, Israel’s
“Dr. Doolittle” has been involved with the animal kingdom since childhood. Avi Lourie
presents hilarious heartwarming tales of his experiences as Haifa Zoo director, game
warden, Israeli nature reserve director, endangered species rescuer, and founder of
animal schoolyards that help at-risk youth overcome abuse and psychological problems.
This wildlife specialist shows us the real Israel beyond the media, and shares his work in
keeping our covenant with Noah to protect all living creatures.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $14.00/Member; $17.00/Non-Member
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PARTNER WITH THE AUTHOR, LINDA & ERIC DANIELS
Talks @ 2/Who Knew? Unusual Jewish Stories
2:00 P.M. ..........Steven Karras, The Enemy I Knew: German Jews in the Allied Military
in World War II
Learn the true story of “Hitler’s worst enemies,” the more than 10,000 Jews who refused
to remain refugees from Hitler’s oppression and destruction and returned home as Allied
soldiers. They went back to fight the Nazis, to restore their own sense of dignity, and to
free their very own families from the Nazi regime. The brave men (and one woman) in
Steve Karras’ book (based on his documentary film) did just that—and much more!
Meet the author and learn more about one of the Holocaust’s most heroic chapters.
Book Signing Follows • Free Admission
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Tea & Talk
4:00 P.M. ..........Oscar Andrew Hammerstein III, The Hammersteins:
A Musical Theatre Family
Are you ready for a brush with greatness? Meet Oscar Hammerstein III, a scion of
Broadway’s greatest family and the grandson of the lyricist of The King & I, Carousel, The
Sound of Music, and other legendary shows. In a remarkable, unprecedented biography
and talk, Oscar III will discuss the scandals and tragedies of the Hammerstein clan and
ultimately how the Hammerstein family built Broadway and turned Times Square into
the theatre capital of the world. Join us for a deeply personal story of an American family
living the American dream and a celebration of musical theater then and now.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $6.00/Member; $8.00/Non-Member
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Monday Evening Talk - A Bum Deal: Rufus Hannah and Barry Soper Tell the Story of Bumfights
7:30 P.M. ..........A Bum Deal: Rufus Hannah and Barry Soper Tell the Story of Bumfights
Sam “The Cooking Guy” Zien has moved to November 16 View Here
For a few years in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Rufus Hannah was a local movie icon. He was the star of Bumfights, a series of underground videos filmed in San Diego in which homeless people fought each other for money and booze (mostly booze). More than a decade later, Hannah is now sober and employed. Come hear this moving story of personal redemption through Hannah’s own worlds and those of his biographer and unlikely friend,
Barry Soper.
They had almost nothing in common. Hannah was born and raised in Georgia,
an upbringing that was Baptist in principle and alcoholic in practice. He dropped out of high school, had five kids with three different women. Soper, a Jew, was born in Massachusetts and earned a sociology degree from the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut before coming to San Diego and buying a string of rental-housing complexes. But after a chance meeting 11 years ago, their friendship was forged next to a dumpster and solidified next to an empty casket. Their relationships lead Hannah to sobriety and Soper to philanthropy.
Don’t miss this inspiring tale of personal redemption, friendship and how a chance meeting between one “odd couple” led to making a major difference in their lives and those of thousands of others.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $14.00/Member; $17.00/Non-Member
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Tuesday, November 9
Morning Coffee Conversation/Who Knew? Unusual Jewish Stories
10:00 A.M. .......Bryna Kranzler, The Accidental Anarchist
Start your day with a jolt as Bryna Kranzler shares the nearly unbelievable, yet entirely
true tale of Jacob Marateck: a Jewish officer in the notoriously anti-Semitic Russian army
during the Russo-Japanese War; a revolutionary who sought to overthrow the Czar; and
a man sentenced to death three times. Translated from his handwritten diaries and
often told in Marateck’s darkly humorous words, The Accidental Anarchist is the tale
of his adventures, his unique personality, and his very survival.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $6.00/Member; $8.00/Non-Member
Lunch & Talk/Who Knew? Unusual Jewish Stories
12:00 p.m. .....Angella Nazarian, Life as a Visitor
Ever feel like a fish out of water? Imagine being Jewish in Iran! Meet Huffington Post
writer Angella Nazarian as she shares her story of fleeing revolutionary Iran to America,
and what it took to embrace the new while staying true to her roots. At this event, she
will share an emotional journey from past to present, from the exotic to the familiar,
and from a country's political struggle to her own inner struggle in search of home,
family and sense of belonging. Life as a Visitor is her story, told through poetry, prose,
and photography.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $14.00/Member; $17.00/Non-Member
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COMMUNITY HOST, HADASSAH
Special Event: Jewish Contributions to Science & Medicine
An Understanding of the Science and Struggles in Stem Cell Research
Join in the stem cell debate with a clear understanding of the science, the law, the politics, and the moral,
religious, and ultimately personal and life-changing considerations. Learn about both the human and
scientific sides of the stem cell research story and controversy.
4:00 P.M. ..........Laurie Strongin, Saving Henry: A Mother’s Journey
First, the human side… Laurie Strongin shares the story of her son Henry, who bravely
battled a fatal genetic disease while his parents fought a seven-year race against time,
science and politics to save their son. Their persistent advocacy for stem cell research—
including joining Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi to urge Congress to pass the Stem Cell
Research Enhancement Act—makes available to others the lifesaving technique that
their child needs.
5:00 P.M. ..........Dr. Lawrence Goldstein, Stem Cells for Dummies
Following Laurie Strongin, will be Dr. Lawrence Goldstein, Director of the UC San Diego
Stem Cell Program and Professor of Cellular & Molecular Medicine at UC San Diego School
of Medicine. In clear, concise language, Dr. Goldstein explains what stem cells are and what
they do, the legalities of harvesting them for use in research, and the future prospects for
medical stem cell therapies.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: Strongin and Goldstein: $6.00/Member; $8.00/Non-Member
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LITERARY CIRCLE PARTNER WITH THE AUTHOR, JULIE & LOWELL POTIKER
Tuesday Evening Talk
7:30 P.M. .....Dr. Erica Brown, Confronting Scandal: How Jews Can Respond
When Jews Do Bad Things
Want to know how to counter negative Jewish stereotyping? Especially the kind
reinforced by the likes of Jack Abramoff, Elliott Spitzer, and Bernie Madoff? Dr. Erica
Brown, Wexner Foundation faculty member and Jewish Federation Scholar-in-Residence,
will show you how. Rather than circling the wagons in the face of civic scorn, Jews must
pro-actively hold all of our people to the highest civic and Judaic standards, as presented
in Deuteronomy, “And you shall do what is just and good in the eyes of God.” Join Dr.
Brown as she presents her strategy.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $14.00/Member; $17.00/Non-Member
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LITERARY CIRCLE, PARTNER WITH THE AUTHOR, GLORIA & RODNEY STONE
Wednesday, November 10
Morning Coffee Conversation
10:00 A.M. .......Morey Schwartz, Where’s My Miracle? Exploring Jewish Traditions
for Dealing with Tragedy
If you’ve ever been struck by tragedy or if you know someone who has, this talk can
empower you with the skills and understanding you need to cope and to help others.
Rabbi Morey Schwartz, Director of the Florence Melton Adult Institute, uses the wisdom
and teachings of sages through the centuries to uncover a new way to look at our lives.
This event is a must for those who seek counsel, but even more so for those who would
provide it as they above all must be sympathetic to the deep sensitivities of those who
seek consolation.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $6.00/Member; $8.00/Non-Member
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Lunch & Talk
12:00 p.m. .....Judith Viorst, Unexpectedly Eighty: and Other Adaptations
What does it mean to be 80? Author Judith Viorst shares playful poetry on the subject
that will have you feeling zesty, hopeful, and full of the pleasures of living. Viorst
gleefully attests that 80 is not too old to dream, to flirt, to drink, and to dance. Funny,
moving, inspirational, and true—the newest in Judith Viorst’s beloved "decades" series
extols the virtues, victories, frustrations, and joys of life. Don’t miss this uplifting chat
with one of America’s most beloved writers.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $14.00/Member; $17.00/Non-Member
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COMMUNITY HOST: SEACREST VILLAGE
COMMUNITY OUTREACH PARTNER, BRANDEIS UNIVERSITY NATIONAL WOMEN’S COMMITTEE
Talks @ 2
2:00 P.M. ..........Michael Hirsh, The Liberators: America’s Witnesses to the Holocaust
Holocaust survivors can never forget; neither can soldiers who liberated them. In April/ May
1945, young American men, some who had never before left home, encountered hell on
earth across Germany. These brave soldiers, now in their 80s and 90s, shared their
stories with Peabody award-winner Michael Hirsh, and now he shares them with
you. These true tales expose not only the worst that humankind can do, but also
the best, and provide a final rebuttal to those who would deny the Holocaust.
Book Signing Follows • Free Admission
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Tea & Talk
4:00 P.M. ..........Annie Korzen, Bargain Junkie: Living the Good Life on the Cheap
Did your mother reuse tea bags? Annie Korzen’s did. And now Annie, a comic/actress/
lecturer/essayist and self-described “bargainista” and “frugalista” has raised her
mother’s thrift to high art and shares how she finds upscale bargains and has fun
doing it. Annie will show you how to dress well, decorate your home, travel, eat out,
and live the good life without breaking your budget. Join the author for this fun-filled
frugality fest!
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $6.00/Member; $8.00/Non-Member
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Wednesday Evening Talk
7TH ANNUAL MURRAY GOODMAN MEMORIAL LECTURE
7:30 P.M. .....Mitchell Bard, The Arab Lobby: The Invisible Alliance That
Undermines America’s Interests in the Middle East
Discover the dark history and ongoing aims of the Arab lobby. Scholar Mitchell Bard
takes you on a tour of the scarily secret history of a group that includes former elected
officials and diplomats, academics, human rights organizations, Christian groups,
UN agencies, and even law enforcement officials. From trying to prevent America’s
recognition of Israel in 1948 to covertly aiming to increase U.S. oil dependency, the
lobby’s 80-year mission has been to coerce the U.S. to ignore Saudi human rights
abuses, terrorist support and opposition to American interests. Join the author as
he exposes this “many-headed hydra.” What you’ll learn is sure to stir you to action!
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $14.00/Member; $17.00/Non-Member
LITERARY CIRCLE PARTNER WITH THE AUTHOR, GARY & JERRI-ANN JACOBS AND FAMILY
Sunday, November 14
at Temple Solel • 3575 Manchester Ave., Cardiff by the Sea, CA 92024
2:00 P.M. .....Sheila Isenberg, Muriel’s War: An American Heiress in the Nazi Resistance
Who was Muriel Gardiner? She was the remarkable woman who inspired Lillian Hellman’s
Julia. She was a product of Chicago’s high society and daughter of a dynasty of millionaire
meat packers. Most importantly, she was the benefactor of countless WWII refugees,
a daring woman who smuggled passports and money and offered her home as a safe house
for anti-Fascist dissidents. Meet Sheila Isenberg—co-author with William Kuntsler of
My Life as a Radical Lawyer—as she discusses her most recent work. Muriel’s War tells
the true story of a woman who gave all she had to make the world a better place.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $6.00/Member; $8.00/Non-Member
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at Temple Solel • 3575 Manchester Ave., Cardiff by the Sea, CA 92024
7:00 P.M. ..........J.J. Surbeck, An Invitation of the SDJBF to the North County
Teen Community.
A Conversation with J.J. Surbeck, Co-Founder of T.E.A.M. (Training and Education About the
Middle East) on Israel advocacy issues: Ten issues that every college bound student must know
about Israel. Using Michael Bard’s book, On One Foot, as a resource, the students will engage in a
dialogue regarding how to respond to critics of Israel in a fair and objective fashion.
Free Admission
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Monday, November 15
at Dove Library • 1775 Dove Lane, Carlsbad, CA 92011
1:00 P.M. ..........Yale Strom, Dave Tarras: The King of Klezmer
Meet author, musician, and klezmer expert Yale Strom for an in-depth look at the man many
hail as the “the Benny Goodman of klezmer," Dave Tarras. A brilliant clarinetist, the Russianborn
Tarras’ talent almost went unheard by most as he was conscripted into the czar’s army
in 1915. But, as was the case so often in his life, music made the difference, and kept him
out of the trenches. He eventually landed in New York City where he began cementing his
legend. There is no one better to discuss the life of one of this Klezmer legend, other than
Yale Strom, an accomplished musician (having released 13 Klezmer CDs), and master
storyteller. Don’t miss this rare “informance” (informal performance) featuring both words
and music to tell the private story of Dave Tarras. It is sure to be a most melodious event.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $6.00/Member; $8.00/Non-Member
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7:30 P.M. ..........Rebecca Newberger Goldstein, 36 Arguments for the
Existence of God: A Work of Fiction
Rebecca Goldstein has received the MacArthur Fellowship (a.k.a., the Genius Grant),
the Guggenheim Fellowship, and the Radcliffe Fellowship. In 2008, she was designated
a Humanist Laureate by the International Academy, and has also been a National Jewish
Book Award winner. Join Rebecca Goldstein as she discusses her latest book. In a starred
review, Publisher’s Weekly calls 36 Arguments… “rollicking… irreverent and witty” as it details
the story of Cass Seltzer, an atheist who is in for a lot of soul-searching. Take advantage of
this unique opportunity to meet this fearless, funny, brilliant writer.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $6.00/Member; $8.00/Non-Member
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Tuesday, November 16
Tuesday Evening Talk - Jewish Contribution/Food For Thought and Thought For Food
7:30 P.M. .....Sam Zien, Sam the Cooking Guy: Awesome Recipes & Kitchen Shortcuts
San Diego’s biggest cooking star Sam Zien—WAY better known as Sam the Cooking Guy—
joins us for a conversational Smörgåsbord. The 12-time Emmy winner and author of Awesome
Recipes & Kitchen Shortcuts will delve deeply into his life—e.g., he never expected to be a
cook, let alone a cooking instructor—his thoughts on keeping kosher (he doesn’t), and
much more. This is a unique occasion to spend time with a man who describes himself as
“an everyday guy… who has found a way to make cooking casually understandable.” Join
Sam the Cooking Guy for a delightful evening.
Book Signing Follows • Admission: $14.00/Member; $17.00/Non-Member
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LITERARY CIRCLE PARTNER WITH THE AUTHOR, PHYLLIS COHN & ARTHUR BRODY
Book Fair Brochure 2010
Purchase Tickets