By Barrett Holman Leak
Becky Cherlin Baird, The Pied Piper of Youth Theatre: Affectionately known as “Broadway Becky,” Becky Cherlin Baird has enchanted generations as the Founding Artistic Director of The J*Company Youth Theatre, now celebrating its 32nd vibrant season. With over 35 years of experience, this University of Arizona alumna is truly the “Pied Piper of Children’s Theatre,” having introduced countless young families to the magic of live performance. Her illustrious career includes directing for the First National Tour of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and establishing North Coast Repertory Theatre’s youth program. Whether coaching individually or leading workshops, Becky’s enduring passion for nurturing young artists through music, dance, and theater leaves an indelible mark on their lives and our community.
Rabbi Yael B. Ridberg, A Legacy of Faith and Justice: Rabbi Yael B. Ridberg recently concluded a distinguished chapter, retiring this month as the beloved spiritual leader of Congregation Dor Hadash since 2010. A revered graduate of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, Rabbi Ridberg previously guided West End Synagogue in NYC. Her profound commitment extended far beyond the pulpit, as evidenced by her significant roles on the San Diego Jewish Academy Board and as a Past President of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association. Demonstrating unwavering solidarity, she recently served on a team in Israel following the October 7th Hamas attack. Rabbi Ridberg’s passion for Jewish engagement, social justice, and interfaith harmony has inspired countless individuals, leaving a powerful legacy of faith and advocacy. Now, she says, she will focus her time and energy on her family.
Silvana Christy, Making a Difference, Transforming a Community:
Silvana Christy embodies the spirit of giving, driven by a profound desire to make a tangible difference in her community. This former educator has dedicated over three decades to the Lawrence Family JCC, notably co-chairing its “Tapestry” program. Silvana passionately believes that philanthropy extends beyond financial contributions; it encompasses everyone’s willingness to volunteer time, lend expertise, and build meaningful connections. As a founding member of the JCC’s philanthropy committee, Silvana has been instrumental in fostering a culture of peer-to-peer engagement. Her request to the community is that each person focus on asking “How can I make a difference in my community?” Her proudest achievement, orchestrating the 2022 JCC Maccabi Games during the pandemic, perfectly illustrates this belief.
Tina Beranbaum, A Visionary in Leadership and Philanthropy:
Tina Beranbaum is a driving force within San Diego’s philanthropic landscape, currently serving as the esteemed Chair of the Board of Directors at the Jewish Community Foundation. As the Founding Principal and CEO of Centauric, a strategic consulting firm, Tina applies her decades of expertise as a behavioral scientist to advise executives globally, uniquely blending strategic insight with a focus on tangible outcomes. Her commitment to community is equally profound; she previously chaired the Jewish Women’s Foundation and its Innovation Incubator, championing programs that empower teenage girls and facilitate inter-generational leadership dialogues. Tina’s blend of knoledge and heartfelt dedication illuminates her path as a true woman of valor.
Dr. Laurie Greenberg, A Heart for Healing and Community:
Dr. Laurie Greenberg is a beloved San Diego physician and a guiding light in the Jewish community, warmly embracing her role as Board Chair of the Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center (JCC). For over two decades, as a compassionate OB/GYN, Dr. Greenberg has dedicated herself to women’s health, offering personalized care that touches lives deeply. A proud alumna of SUNY Health Science Center at Syracuse, with residency training at UC San Diego, her medical expertise is matched only by her profound commitment to community well-being. Dr. Greenberg’s spirit of service shines through her past leadership as Immediate Past Board Chair of the San Diego Center for Jewish Culture and her invaluable contributions to the boards of the San Diego Jewish Academy and Hillel of San Diego. Her life truly embodies the spirit of a woman of valor, blending professional excellence with heartfelt communal devotion.
Lori Kaye, A Beacon of Light, A Blessed Memory:
Lori Kaye was with us only in spirit but the words used to bring the story of her life to us in the Garfield Theatre were powerful. As a woman remembered for her boundless kindness and generosity, she truly embodied the spirit of a woman of valor. Her heartwarming custom of sending personalized greeting cards for every occasion reflected her deep care for others, ensuring everyone felt special. As a devoted pillar of Chabad of Poway, Lori poured her energy into seeing the synagogue and community center flourish, even securing its very first construction loan. Lori’s home was a hub of warmth, famous for her Shabbat meals and legendary challah, where guests were always welcomed without invitation. Her incredible spirit of giving extended far beyond her immediate circle. Tragically, Lori lost her life in the Poway synagogue shooting, having just stepped out to check on the children. Yet, her legacy of unwavering love, service, and proud Jewish identity continues to inspire and uplift all who knew her.
The performance will be repeated at Leightag Commons on Sunday, June 8 at 2 p.m. The performances are part of San Diego’s JFest.
*
Barrett Holman Leak is a freelance writer based in San Diego.