AAA-Writers and photographers

Below are the names of writers who are currently active.  For others, living and deceased, please type their name into the search box above the masthead on our home page, www.sdjewishworld.com

Jewish Biography: Semyon Semkovsky, Ukrainian Philosopher

The only philosopher in Soviet Russia who spoke in defense of quantum mechanics and the theory of relativity and proved that the new theories do not contradict Marx’s philosophy, was Semyon Semkovsky, Doctor of Philosophy, Academician of the All-Ukrainian Academy of Sciences. [Alex Gordon]

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Alex Gordon, Antisemitism, International, Jewish History, Science, Medicine, & Education, Staff and Bylined Contributors

A Gem of a Holocaust Novel

Rachael, returning to her barracks from work sorting possessions of murdered new arrivals at Auschwitz, found in the mud a diamond and sapphire engagement ring.  Knowing that the ring would be useless to her, even dangerous if it should be discovered, she nevertheless slipped it into her pocket as a small act of defiance.
[Donald H. Harrison]

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Books, Poetry & Short Stories, Donald H. Harrison, Jewish Fiction, Staff and Bylined Contributors

Lincoln’s Political Evolution Fostered by Frederick Douglass in World Premiere Musical at the La Jolla Playhouse

In 3 Summers of Lincoln, The La Jolla Playhouse is exploring a side of Lincoln (Ivan Hernandez) not usually talked about: his initial hesitancy to end slavery because of the political opposition to the idea, and his progression from a rule-abiding lawyer to a passionate proponent of freedom, consequences be damned. Much of this change comes through his friendship with Frederick Douglass (Quentin Earl Darrington) though they only met in person a handful of times. [Sandi Masori]

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Music, Dance, and Visual Arts, Sandi Masori, Staff and Bylined Contributors, Theatre, Film & Broadcast, USA

Reflections on Turning 60: Being Enough

Then came the “crossing the threshold” ceremony. I was asked to reflect on what I wanted to leave behind in my 50s and what I wanted to welcome into my 60s. The answer came instantly:”enoughness.” I wanted to release the old stories that whispered, “I haven’t done enough,” “I haven’t served enough,” “I haven’t tried hard enough”—all feeding the belief that I am not enough. [Shayna Kaufmann]

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Lifestyles, San Diego County, Shayna Kaufmann, Staff and Bylined Contributors

Adrien Brody Speaks Out about Antisemitism

“I’m here once again to represent the lingering traumas and the repercussions of war and systematic oppression and of antisemitism and racism and I believe, and I pray for a healthier and a happier and a more inclusive world. And I believe if the past can teach us anything, it’s a reminder to not let hate go unchecked.” [Cailin Acosta quoting Adrien Brody]

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Antisemitism, Cailin Acosta, Holocaust, International, Jewish History, Staff and Bylined Contributors, Theatre, Film & Broadcast

Parsha Tetzaveh-Zachor: Don’t Let the Light Go Out

What are these psychological lessons that we can learn from the Torah this week? Tetzaveh teaches that true spiritual growth requires a combination of humility, intentionality, and consistent inner work. Through this, people can elevate themselves and bring divine light into the world. [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D]

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Jewish Religion, Michael Mantell, Music, Dance, and Visual Arts, Staff and Bylined Contributors

God Gives Writer a Tour of Past, Present and Future in This Novel

However, unlike the movie, this is not a comedy.  It is an exploration of the many myths that impede people’s thinking about the Earth’s fragility as well as their responsibilities to each other. [Donald H. Harrison]

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Antisemitism, Books, Poetry & Short Stories, Donald H. Harrison, Holocaust, International, Jewish History, Jewish Religion, Staff and Bylined Contributors

Ukrainian, Israeli, and British Leaders’ Different Approaches to Donald Trump

Events seem to be happening at an ever-increasing pace, both in Israel and in the wider world. This may have something to do with the current occupant of the White House, who appears to have set himself the task of stirring up worldwide anxiety and mayhem, probably in order to gain greater control of everything and everyone. [Dorothea Shefer-Vanson]

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Dorothea Shefer-Vanson, International, Israel, Opinion, Staff and Bylined Contributors, USA

Jewish Women of the Bible: Esther Was a Courageous Queen

One of my favorite times of the year is coming soon. Each year, I volunteer at the annual Temple Emanu-El of San Diego’s Purim Carnival. I serve my community by handing out tickets and dispensing snacks and drinks to the colorfully costumed and joyful children and their adults. [Barrett Holman Leak]

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Barrett Holman Leak, Jewish Religion, San Diego County, Staff and Bylined Contributors