As many of us recently found out, Rabbi Maddy will be transitioning over to work as a rabbi at Congregation B’nai B’rith at the start of next year! She has been a gift to the students of UCSB at Hillel, and we are all incredibly grateful for her dedication to our community. I recently had the privilege of sitting down with her to reflect on her time spent at Hillel and discuss her various accomplishments. In regards to one of Rabbi Maddy’s favorite memories, she fondly described getting to lead the Birthright trip in the summer of her first year. She explained that it was her first time being on the trip in the role of an educator instead of a participant and had the opportunity to form many strong connections with students, which have flourished since the trip. Another experience she talked about was getting to lead Shabbat services with students. Rabbi Maddy discussed that at the start of her journey as a rabbi, she had been very excited and focused about things such as programming and the educational aspect of being a rabbi and less about prayer. Her time at Hillel allowed her to guide students through the process of leading a service (whether they had experience or not), and this was incredibly meaningful for her. To build off of this, Rabbi Maddy reflected by stating that she thinks the thing she is most proud of is the relationships that she has built with students. Whether that be through providing mentorship to student leaders or through the expansion of educational opportunities, which allowed her to work with more of the Jewish students here at UCSB, this is something that she looks back on with pride. These are just a few snippets of what Rabbi Maddy has done during her almost three years at the Santa Barbara Hillel. Her work here has been extremely impactful on Jewish students. She is a remarkable human and has helped to create a space where students feel supported and seen. I personally have gotten to led Shabbat services with her on many, many occasions, and her encouragement and excitement for student involvement have truly made me feel more confident in my own leadership abilities, along with making me feel more connected to the Jewish community. Rabbi Maddy will be dearly missed, but her new role at Congregation B’nai B’rith also holds many exciting new opportunities. She emphasized how much she loves the Santa Barbara Hillel community and that this transition to her newer role will help to immerse her in the greater Santa Barbara Jewish community, and thankfully, she still will not be too far away! Rabbi Maddy expressed her excitement to work with whole families and build connections with members of Congregation B’nai B’rith across many ages. She will get to do this through baby namings, b’nai mitzvahs, pastoral care, etc. These are things that she has gotten to do less in her time as a rabbi, and this provides her with a new opportunity to learn and grow and continue to strengthen the Jewish community! We all hold so much love in our hearts for Rabbi Maddy. She is truly so phenomenal and an inspiration to us all. Her time at Hillel has impacted students in a deeply profound and meaningful way, and we are so, so grateful. We love you, Rabbi Maddy!!!!

Critics are calling it the most gritty, groundbreaking portrayal of international travel to date. Audiences are refreshing their screens every minute just to catch a glimpse of their favorite hotel guests’ drama. The whole world is waiting in unmitigated suspense for what happens next. If you thought I was talking about the hit HBO drama White Lotus , you’d be sorely mistaken. Get ready for an earth-shattering screenplay on AEPi’s exciting 2025 trip to Cabo, San Lucas. Fraternity everyman and NJB, Eldod Lalehzarian, struggles to balance his well deserved vacation and a group of UCSB travelers that are anything but flexible or passive. Including… The bombastic, raspy voiced Israeli – Corelle – wrangling her friends as they swear they’re just gonna take one more picture and then they can finally leave for the club. Drunk ex-president of AEPi – Eman – in a desperate attempt to drag everyone to Saloon. Natalie and her never ending mission of explaining Jewish shit to resident goy, Bella. Fresh-off-the-boat Ilai and his rags to riches transformation into a Student City employee. And newcomer Romi trying to make sense of it all in the wildest spring break of her life. Will Ethan Rashtian finally convince eccentric bartender Javier to stop pouring him unwanted Tequila shots? How many activities will Gloria, Yael, and Liz evade in their self proclaimed girls trip? Will Josh manage to save his fellow Jewish Gringos in an attempted Uber kidnapping? And when will Ben and Ariel put a ring on their new foreign loves? All of this will be answered, and more, on April 11th  in the exciting, all-telling expose and screenplay- Where the Fuck The Function? “Crash the fuck out! U get ONE last night!” - Jordan Marom

פּוּרִים Purim occurs on the 14th day of the month of Adar in the Jewish calendar, which this year landed on the evening of March 13th through the evening of the 14th. This holiday is based on the events described in the Book of Esther, and dates back to the 5th century BCE. It is one of the only holidays that celebrates a story in which God is not referenced, and instead focuses on Jewish survival and resilience in the face of antisemitism and a plot to destroy them. Purim is celebrated by reading the Scroll of Esther (Megillah), festive meals, giving gifts to those in need, celebrations and parades, and wearing costumes - which has fueled its reputation as a “Jewish Halloween.” The Book of Esther The story found in the Book of Esther is set during the reign of King Xerxes I (referred to as King Ahasuerus in this story) of ancient Perisa, who reigned from 486 - 465 BCE in the city of Susa, a capital of the Persian Empire. The events of the story take place in the 5th century BCE, and begin when the Persian King banished his queen Vashti for her refusal to attend his banquet. Xerxes I requested that beautiful young women be brought to him from his kingdom, and from those women chose Esther, who hid her identity as a Jew on her cousin Mordecai’s suggestion.  Mordecai had raised Esther, and one day overheard a plot which involved killing King Ahasuerus. Mordecai informed Esther of this plot, and she told the king, who thwarted the attempt on his life. His act of heroism was recorded in the Royal Chronicles, and stored away.  King Ahasuerus had an advisor named Haman, who is the antagonist in the story of Esther and Mordecai. Haman is said to be a descendant of the Amalekites, who were historical enemies of the Israelites. When Mordecai refused to bow down to Haman, Haman devised a plan to seek revenge against him due to his wounded pride and deep seated dislike of the Jewish people. Haman begins to manipulate King Ahasuerus to make him believe that Jews are a threat to the kingdom as they do not respect the king's laws, and therefore deserve to be exterminated. Through a lottery, Haman chose the day for which the Jews would be exterminated to be the 14th of the month of Adar, which would later be known by the Jewish people to be Purim. King Ahasuerus approved his plan, still unaware of Queen Esther’s identity. The word Purim is devised from the word ‘lots’ (pur) in Hebrew, referring to the lots in which Haman drew from to choose this date. (‘pur’ = פּוּר)  One night, King Ahasuerus was reading the Royal Chronicles, and stumbled upon the record of Mordecai’s act of loyalty in preventing the plot of his assassination. The King wished to honor Mordecai, and asked Haman “What should be done for the man whom the king delights to honor?” Haman, believing that the king was referring to himself, proceeded to suggest a lavish ceremony, which included a parade on the king's own horse, dressing in royal garments, and a proclamation of the individual's greatness. Haman was infuriated to learn that these honors would be given to Mordecai.  Image: The Triumph of Mordechai  by Pieter Lastman, 1624. Collection of the Rembrandt House Museum. Humiliated, Hamam's vendetta against the Jews grew, and he ordered the construction of gallows for Mordecai. Mordecai soon learned of his plot to exterminate all the Jews in Persia. Again, he passed the knowledge of this threat to his cousin Esther, and urged the Queen to do something to stop it.  Queen Esther hosted a banquet for King Ahasuerus and Haman after learning of Haman’s plot. At this banquet, Esther courageously revealed her identity as a Jew, and announced Haman’s treachery against her people. The king was furious that Haman had plotted against his wife, and ordered his execution on the gallows that he had made for Mordecai. King Ahasuerus granted the Jewish people the right to defend themselves against those who wished to exterminate them through a new decree.  The 13th day of Adar, the Jewish people of Persia defended themselves against Haman’s supporters who wished for their downfall. Those who were emboldened by the king's earlier decree which legitimized Haman’s planning of their attack rose against the Jewish people, and in the city of Susa, victory was granted to the Jewish people on the 15th of Adar.  Celebrations The reading of the Megillah (The Book of Esther) is traditionally done during Purim. The reading is done once on the evening of Purim, and again the following morning. Usually, listeners will boo or create noise anytime Haman’s name is mentioned as the story progresses. Plays or comedic skits have evolved from the readings of the Megillah, where communities will retell the story in engaging and entertaining ways. These plays have become a favorite tradition for many Jewish people during Purim. Festive meals, like with most Jewish holidays, is tradition with Purim as well as gift giving. Gifts are given to friends and family, though another aspect of Purim is giving to charity by giving at least two gifts to the poor. This is done to ensure that everybody can participate in the festivities of Purim.  What may be the most well-known tradition of Purim is the aspect of partying and dressing up in costume. The aspect of dressing up in costume has been associated with Halloween, though it reflects Esther's hidden identity when she became queen. Costumes symbolize not only that people or things may not always be what they seem, but also a reversal of fortune. In the Book of Esther, the Jewish people reversed the fate of what was supposed to be the day of their destruction into a day of resilience and victory. With most Jewish holidays, the celebrations that accompany Purim represent the joy and gratitude for Jewish survival, and the celebration of Jewish life. Purim has had a dramatic impact in Jewish communities, most notably in Israeli cities.  Journalist Rachel Neiman credits Tel Aviv’s party reputation to Purim celebrations, which date back to the first Adloyada Purim parade in 1912. Tel Aviv has been the host of Purim parties for over a century, and it began with students, workers, artists, and musicians parading through the streets. Meir Dizengoff (the first mayor of Tel Aviv and head of its founding Ahuzat Bayit society) made these Purim parades annual, and over time the festival evolved as groups like Hevre Trask (known for their chaotic and loud behavior) collaborated with figures like Baruch Agadati, who introduced Purim balls and beauty pageants. The Purim parades became a reflection of the times, where artists, writers, and public figures shaped the themes of the parade. Topics like Jewish immigration to the rise of anti-Semitism in Europe were portrayed through art and performance, and floats served as a platform for political commentary. The German Consulate demanded an apology from Tel Aviv Mayor Dizengoff in 1933 for the parades’   depiction of Adolf Hitler holding a spear over two corpses with a sign saying ‘Death to All Jews.’ Dizengoff refused, and responded: “It is clear that this display is nothing but a spontaneous reaction reflecting a public view that is unwilling to accept the fate of the Jews of Germany. In fact, one wonders why the protest was not even sharper…”  By 1936, British restrictions, budget issues, and Dizengoff’s death resulted in the end of the annual Adloyada Purim parade. It made a comeback in Tel Aviv in 1955, later moved to Holon in the ‘70s, and returned to Tel Aviv’s on Sheinkin Street in the 1980s in a new way which reflected the rebellious spirit of the times. The parade featured punk rock music and art which lasted for days, and a street party which spread through the city, managing to embrace the chaotic energy of the early Adloyada celebrations without the government sponsorship.  Though the last official Adloyada Purim parade was held in 1998, the term Adloyada evolved to refer to Purim parades held throughout Israel. The term Adloyada was coined by poet Isaac Dov Berkowits, who found it in a passage in the Babylonian Talmud which states that on Purim, one should drink wine until they can’t tell the difference between the “cursed Haman and the blessed Mordecai”.  Image : Moksha Purim Party, Israel. Arad, Southern Israel. March 21, 2008. Photo by Leandra Fallis . Tel Aviv has only grown as a center of political commentary, artistic expression, and partying. Purim evolved into a holiday where any and all kinds of celebrations take place, from family-friendly events to disorderly costume parties. In Israel, the streets come alive with parades, street fairs, community gatherings, and concerts. Traditional foods like hamantaschen are shared, and the environment yields a sense of unity and joy within the Jewish community. Purim is primarily a holiday to celebrate Jewish resilience, and celebrate life. The 2025 celebrations featured these aspects along with a unifying symbol of honor for the fallen Bibas children, who were murdered by Hamas during their captivity in Gaza. One of the boys, Ariel, loved the DC character Batman, so children across Israel and other parts of the world dressed up as Batman during this year's Purim celebrations.  Throughout times of global anti-Semitism, persecution, terror, and tragedy, Purim celebrations remind the Jewish people of their strength and resilience, turning moments of fear into moments of community and joy. The holiday’s tradition of satire, parades, music, and costume serves as a powerful reminder that Jewish identity and culture will endure not only through survival, but celebration.

Regardless of its title, Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow  is a book you should absolutely read today, not tomorrow. It’s a deeply moving tale about two video game enthusiasts, Sadie Green and Sam Masur, who fall in and out of friendship and professional partnership throughout their lives. Their journey starts with a secret bat mitzvah project and quickly transforms into so much more. I’ve often heard that this novel is considered to be a modern-day masterpiece, but I didn’t know until just before I started reading that it was one that features such incredible Jewish protagonists as well. Sadie and Sam both have Jewish ancestry, as Sadie is Eastern European Jewish and Sam is half-Jewish and half-Korean-American.  From the first page, readers can see that Judaism is evident in this story  – Sam is immediately described as “a nice, ostensibly Jewish boy” with curly hair. When we meet his soon-to-be-friend Sadie, Judaism once again makes its way to the forefront as we discover that Sadie’s preparing for her bat mitzvah. The two connect over their love of video games in a children’s hospital where Sam is recovering from a severe foot injury. When a community service opportunity for her bat mitzvah is presented by befriending Sam, Sadie eagerly takes a chance. The resulting ripple effects will change her life forever. While this novel primarily focuses on the power of video games and human connection, Judaism weaves its way into the narrative beautifully. There are a variety of Jewish characters beyond our two protagonists, some of who are shining lights like Sadie’s sweet and wise bubbe Freda as well as others who are far more morally questionable like the game developer Dov. I appreciated that there was such a wide range of personalities who were all Jewish, showcasing how the Jewish religion manifests differently for each individual as opposed to having just one character serve as a sweeping generalization.  Though the plot line didn’t revolve directly around Judaism, this book stayed authentically Jewish with fantastic little one-liners. Hebrew and Yiddish references were abundant throughout the novel, as characters would casually mention matzoh or say “mazel” to someone. My favorite reference is when Sadie lists her favorite things and challah makes a winning appearance alongside tote bags and yoga. The lingering effects of the Holocaust on the Jewish population are also brought up and discussed with care. Sadie’s grandmother Freda is a Holocaust survivor and Sadie honors her through one of the first games she develops, which delivers a powerful message as it warns how ignorance can lead to bigotry.  From its gorgeous imagery to its fantastic dialogue, it’s easy to adore this book. It will definitely teach you some new words to add to your vocabulary (ten points to anyone who knows what “bloviating” means), but it will also teach you so much about life and the importance of having people within it who truly know you. Reading this at 22 is fascinating, as I’m at the halfway point of the narrative for these characters. One day, I look forward to returning to this book once I reach the age of Sadie and Sam at the end when they’re 37. Yet I suppose that will be tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow.

The renowned Batsheva Dance Company recently brought their latest performance, MOMO , to Santa Barbara—and it was nothing short of mesmerizing. Batsheva Dance Company is based in Tel Aviv and was founded by Martha Grahm and Baroness Batsheva de Rothschild in 1964. Known for contemporary and modern dance, Batsheva delivered a piece that was as thought-provoking as it was visually stunning. When I arrived at the Granada Theater, I was surprised to see a mass, not very large but still present, of protesters outside the theater handing out fliers in line and many police officers. These protesters were accusing a dance  company – one that has clearly stated their hopes for a permanent ceasefire – of artwashing, ethnic cleansing, and genocide. That surprise evaded after confronting the truth for the thousandth time: the Jews will always be attacked, even for dancing.  I sat down in my seat and the performance began unexpectedly: the house lights remained on, and there was no music. Four male dancers slowly walked across the stage, each with one hand placed behind their back on their hip. This quiet, unusual, and almost meditative opening created a sense of anticipation that set the tone for what was to come. As the music entered, it featured string instruments with distinctly Jewish scales, immediately evoking a familiar emotion of Jewish connection - and a melancholic air filled the room as I was reminded of the current and cyclical hate we face. The strings gradually shifted into a classical style, blending tradition with modernity. While the tempo of the music generally remained constant, the dancers alternated between slow, deliberate group movements and sudden, fast-paced solos that stood out like emotional bursts. That melancholic mood carried through the piece, often expressing a kind of agony that felt deeply personal, current, and raw. Electronic sounds layered with the strings added a haunting and more experimental atmosphere, and the contrast of the dancers’ movement between slow motion and rapid became a recurring theme. One of the show's most striking moments and aspects came when the original four male dancers began to climb the wall at the back of the stage. With the help of hidden rock-wall-type supports and exact lighting, they appeared to float. Once up on the wall, they sat facing the audience for a while.  Later, ballet barres were brought out, and the dancers performed a brief yet incredibly satisfying sequence of fast, synchronized movements. The symmetry and precision were visually rewarding, offering a hint of tradition and clarity in the otherwise emotionally and physically complex performance. A recurring action involved dancers raising one hand – palm facing the audience – as a deep and loud trembling vibration sounded. That action became more frequent until it pulsed every couple of seconds. This repetitive motion, paired with occasional yelling in non-languages, added an intensity and urgency that built throughout the show and left the audience with unlimited paths of imagination and interpretation. Toward the end, the dancers formed a rotating line at the front of the stage, spinning like a living sculpture. Many of them climbed the wall once again—this time as a way to exit—climbing and crawling off of the stage, unlike any piece I have seen. Despite the unfortunate scene outside, I felt immense inspiration and pride watching this performance. In a time of noise and conflict, Batsheva delivered something unforgettable: the quiet power of art that dares to speak.

Hey there, wandering Jews! This February, we celebrated Tu B’Shevat, birthday of the trees. In honor of this, here is a traveler’s guide to some spots just a few hours away from SB, and suggestions to further improve them!  Joshua Tree National Park  Along with thousands of Joshua trees, this desert destination features boulders in the shapes of skulls, hearts, arches, and more. This is a climber’s paradise and a stargazer’s dream… but the park is severely unorganized. Whoever stacked those rocks did not do a very good job, as they are jumbled all over the place. Those alien-looking trees need some serious grooming as well. This Joshua guy needs to get it together! Annie’s Canyon, San Diego  This colorful slot canyon trail provides ladders for vertical climbs and panoramic ocean views at the top. Less than a mile long, it is perfect for the whole family. Indeed, whole families will be there. Waiting in line to walk through the canyon is like waiting for a Disneyland attraction. Why not make it Mickey’s Canyon? The only thing missing is “It’s a Small World” on repeat and Donald Duck giving high fives.  Camp Ramah, Ojai Tucked between orange groves and foothills is a Jewish sleepaway camp! While the outdoor scenery is lovely, the cabins lack interior design and the beds are quite uncomfortable. Hard mattresses mean campers are awake all night, asking staff very personal questions about their love life. Camp Ramah could greatly benefit from an Ikea on its premises. Plus, it could function as the chader ochel if their Swedish meatballs are made kosher.  Monterey Bay Aquarium Fish are food, not friends! Sharks are cool, but when we lock eyes we’re both salivating at the mouth. Yellowtails are pretty, but would look even more aesthetic on a sushi platter. Stingrays are just pancakes with eyes, and jellies belong on sliced bread with peanut butter. Yeah, Ivy the otter is cute, but so is a fur coat. The aquarium should make better use of its animals. Point Lobos, Carmel  A 6.4 mile loop trail visits turquoise coves, lazy seals, jagged cliffs, and the famous lone cypress tree. This is a very popular trail, so hikers often have to park a 5-10 minute walk away from the trailhead. Everyone is here for ocean views, not the lame forest in the center of the loop. Those trees should be bulldozed, and a multi-story parking complex should be put in its place.  Calla Lily Valley, Big Sur More abundant than the elegant, white flowers is the number of influencers with a whole camera crew. Too bad there are backpackers, tourists, and families getting in the way. Maybe this spot should be closed off to the public, so more micro-celebrities can prove they touch grass. Point Sur Atop a cliff jetting out into the ocean is the iconic Point Sur lighthouse. Surrounding this is picturesque farmland. The Big Sur highway has an abundance of cows but a lack of affordable restaurants. This can easily be solved by turning these cows into McPattys and placing America’s favorite fast food chain atop the cliff as well.  Santa Barbara Channel Board the Spectre dive boat for an unforgettable scuba experience at the Channel Islands. If you’re lucky, you’ll see some lobsters, starfish, and maybe even a shark! However, if you are exceptionally favored by G-d, your boat will pass by one of Santa Barbara’s stunning oil rigs! The Stop Sable movement has been such a powerful example of social action–why restart a pipeline when we can build another one! It would be great to see more of these impressive platforms out in the ocean.  Big Bear  A cute town in the mountains surrounding a gorgeous lake! It is known as the best place to ski in southern California! However, no one from LA can stomach temperatures under 65 degrees. We should be able to enjoy popular winter activities without being cold! All the snow should be plowed and replaced with something plastic and fake like styrofoam.  Pinnacles National Park  California’s newest and smallest national park features two cave systems, a majestic reservoir, and of course pinnacles created by years of tectonic activity. Endangered California Condors soar over the park. There are less than 400 of these birds flying free in the wild. This is clearly because they don’t have affordable housing. Pinnacles National Park should build condos for condors, including amenities such as hot water, electricity, and WiFi.  As Tu B’Shevat has passed and we enter spring, it is prime time to get outside! Hopefully these suggestions make the natural world more accessible, convenient, and appealing. How I love Tikkun Olam!

Easy Hamantaschen Ingredients: 3 large eggs 1 cup granulated sugar ¾ cup vegetable oil   ½ cup orange juice  2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract 5 ½ cups all-purpose flour, or as needed 1 tablespoon baking powder  1 cup fruit preserves, any flavor Directions: Gather the ingredients. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease cookie sheets. Combine eggs and sugar in a large bowl; beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Stir in oil, orange juice, and vanilla. Combine flour and baking powder; stir into batter to form a stiff dough, adding more flour if needed.
 Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll out into a 1/2-inch thickness. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter or the rim of a drinking glass; place 2 inches apart onto the prepared cookie sheets.
 Spoon about 1 to 2 teaspoons of preserves into center of each cookie. Pinch edges to form three corners.
 Bake in the preheated oven until lightly browned, 12 to 15 minutes. Cool on the cookie sheets for 1 minute; transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Crunchy Pickled Salad Ingredients:     •    2 pounds Persian cucumbers     •    1/2 pound radishes (red or white)     •    1/2 white cabbage, shredded     •    1/2 cup fresh minced dill     •    6 tablespoons white wine vinegar (or more to taste - use a gluten free vinegar to make GF)     •    1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (choose a mild-flavored olive oil for best results)     •    2 teaspoons salt (or more to taste) Directions: Slice the cucumbers into small rounds about ¼ inch thick. Do not peel them. Discard stems. Remove the leaves and stems from the radishes and slice them into thin rounds. Place the cucumbers and radishes in a salad bowl along with the shredded white cabbage. In a small bowl, whisk together fresh minced dill, white wine vinegar, olive oil and salt. Add more vinegar to taste for a more pickled flavor, and/or more salt if desired. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to blend. Refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes to let the flavors marinate. Serve cold

The past month and a half has been highly emotional, regarding the latest hostage deal. We have cried tears of joy watching hostages return to their families, but have also felt immense heartbreak for the families who won’t get to reunite. As a community that cares so deeply, we find ourselves in this sickening situation, overjoyed by the release of captives that never should have been taken in the first place. So we do what we do best–recognize the strength and resilience of those we can, and celebrate that with all our might.  Liri Albag, Naama Levy, Daniella Gilboa, Karina Ariev (all held hostage for 447 days), and Agam Berger (held hostage for 482 days) are the superheroes of our time. We are in awe and so proud of their willingness to stay alive–for themselves, for their families, for the world. Let’s take a moment to recognize what life was like before their capture, and what their return home looked like.  Liri Albag was age 18 when kidnapped from Israel. She was serving as a surveillance soldier on the Nahal Oz base. She had just completed her basic training and reported to base only two days before her capture. She had grown up loving music and singing. Her friends and family know her as strong and optimistic, and able to find beauty in everything. She was released on January 25, 2025, and spent her 20th birthday recovering in the hospital with the three other girls released that day. Amit Soussana, a hostage released in November 2023, says that Liri saved her life by convincing Hamas militants that she was not an IDF officer. On her first instagram post from home, Liri wrote, “ The people of Israel, I want to thank you again for all your support, love and help.” The heart-hands she held up from the airplane serves as a symbol of her strength.  Naama Levy  was age 19 when captured. She is part of the border observation unit for the IDF, and had just finished her basic training before October 7th. On October 5, 2023, she reported to the Nahal Oz base, where she was brutally kidnapped two days later. Naama believes that there is so much good in all people. She is a part of the “Hands of Peace” organization, which brings young Americans, Israelis, and Palestinians together for social action and change. She looks forward to a career that involves diplomacy. On January 25, 2025, Naama returned to Israel and embraced her parents in a gigantic hug. Naama says that “friends, observers, and civilians” gave her the “hope and strength” to survive.  Daniella Gilboa was age 19 when taken hostage. She was also an observation soldier at Nahal Oz base, from which she was kidnapped on October 7th. She is a lover of music and hopes to become a professional singer. One of her favorite things to do at home is play the piano while harmonizing with her sister. Hamas forced Daniella to fake her own death in captivity as a means of psychological warfare. Upon release on January 25, 2025, her boyfriend of eight years proposed to her. Daniella remarks, “ thank you to the people who for a year and three months supported my family, did not give up, or lose hope for a moment.”  Karina Ariev was age 19 when captured. She too was in the surveillance unit and taken from the Nahal Oz base on October 7th. She is known to always offer a helping hand, and embrace others with her gentle heart. She is looking forward to studying and pursuing psychology in the future. After her return to Israel on January 25, 2025, she went with her family to replace posters calling for her release with posters urging to bring home the remaining hostages. In a statement, Karina said, “From now on, beyond my recovery and return to life, my journey will include commemorating my fellow female soldiers, my commanders, operations officers, and the brave men and women who fell in battle at the Nahal Oz post where I served. I will fight for justice and truth alongside the families.” Agam Berger was age 19 when kidnapped. She served as a communications lookout at the Nahal Oz base. She was captured on October 7th, along with the other four girls. She is a talented violinist and dedicated volunteer. She works with children with learning disabilities and other struggles at home. Agam was released on February 4th, 2025. She hugged and cried with her parents upon returning to Israel, and later celebrated with Liri, Naama, Daniella, and Karina. She recalls being given a siddur during captivity, and using prayer as a source of strength. Agam says, “I don’t know how I would have survived without my faith. In the end, that’s what gave me hope.” Liri, Naama, Daniella, Karina, and Agam–your stories are the pride and joy of Israel and Jews worldwide. May you be surrounded by friends and family, and continue living fulfilling lives.

we met you in red writing, miss you in each stroller, love you in every balloon. who gets to be the poster children  of callous collateral; an unthinkable plucking of kumquats, unripe orchids  lean to you, Boys. a smile  beams through concave of baby teeth and gums that don’t know sweetness, tangerines and calcite eyes, and a promise, those marigold-colored glasses  never broke.  save us at street corners, spit in the hands of evil, teach us the color of hope. there is no heaven or hell, but i know i know i know you are raised in sunrise and cradled in sunset, Boys,  in mural and mirage,  in video and valor,  in gingerly kisses of life, may your memory be a blessing. may your memory be brought to every home.

When it comes to comfort films on Netflix, one of my all-time favorites is called You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah! Starring Adam Sandler and his family as well as Idina Menzel, it serves as a fantastic depiction of Jewish life and provides plenty of heart and humor. I recently found out that this amazing film was adapted from a novel by the same name. As soon as I made my discovery, I knew I instantly needed to read the original.  Written by Fiona Rosenbloom, the book You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah!  offers a hilarious glimpse into young adulthood through our Jewish protagonist Stacy Friedman. The novel and the movie follow a similar main arc – Stacy is eagerly preparing for her bat mitzvah party, but middle school drama keeps seeming to get in the way. As the big day approaches, Stacy’s deepening crush on popular kid Andy Goldfarb brings craziness and trouble to her friend group.  As anyone who’s been through those three years of puberty-infused mess knows, middle school is horrifying enough as is. Just ask a younger cousin who’s currently experiencing it (or if you’re feeling extra brave, take a glance back at your diary from when you were 12). Bringing boy trouble and bat mitzvahs into the equation? It only gets that much worse – or in this case, much funnier. Rosenbloom is an expert at making her readers both laugh and cringe as we witness Stacy’s journey in becoming a young woman. It’s the kind of book you can easily get through in a day, but it will fill you with warmth long after you’ve turned the final page.   There are a few major differences between the book and the movie. In the movie, Stacy’s parents are played by none other than Adam Sandler and Idina Menzel, who act as a loving duo though they often raise an eyebrow at Stacy’s sky-high demands for her dream bat mitzvah party. Movie-Stacy has an older sister named Ronnie who can often be found rolling her eyes at Stacy’s antics. In the book, on the other hand, Stacy lives with her mother and a younger prodigy brother named Arthur. Book-Stacy’s mother is recently separated, causing anguish as the mom realizes that her husband has moved on. This makes the book slightly more serious in tone, especially as Stacy witnesses her mother fall into a depressive episode. Yet both the book and the movie brim with hope and positivity even through the tough times, reminding us that even crazy middle schoolers can offer some much-needed optimism.  The book also has a variety of different moments from the movie and some fun pop culture references – I particularly loved how Stacy described in the opening chapter how she felt like she was in an Olivia Rodrigo music video. Though the general storyline stays the same, the book feels fresh and unique enough that you can easily read it after having seen the movie and still come away with new insights.  I will admit, You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah! had some hiccups in its writing and character descriptions (I’m looking at you, Book-Stacy’s younger brother Arthur – he may be a genius but there’s no way even the smartest ten-year-old talks like he does in this novel). Yet its charm more than makes up for its flaws. It’s an earnest story about growing up and the power of female friendship. It’s deeply Jewish in nature, not just because of the subject matter but because of its focus on doing mitzvot and spreading chesed in the world.        This book almost takes on a nostalgic flavor when looking back on what it was like to be that age. The bat mitzvah is such a pivotal point in a Jewish pre-teen girl’s life and it’s fun to reflect on what it was like and how insane it could be. For any Jewish adults looking to take a trip down memory lane to their bar or bat mitzvah days, I would definitely recommend picking up this book (but fair warning, by doing so you will suddenly feel way too old now).

We are together here in Isla Vista, an oasis, and it is now Shabbat, an oasis in time. But I want to talk to you all for a few minutes on this Shabbat about some heavy things. Because doing so matters. Because you matter. And because we respect you. (And, before I begin, I want to remind you that Hillel is here for you always. We’ll gather here on Monday afternoon for a program and a walk to the beach at sunset, so we can be together. If you need our support sooner, or even tonight, we’re here for you. Lean on us; lean on each other.) Some of you have heard these words before –- the Priestly Blessing: “ May you be like Ephraim and Menashe ” - the first two brothers in the Bible who did not compete against one another, but who lived in peace and harmony. “ May you be like Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah ” -- our matriarchs, our life-givers. “ May God bless you and protect you. “ May God show you favor and be gracious to you. “ May God show you kindness and grant you peace. ” This is the Priestly Blessing. Parents often give this blessing to their children on Shabbat. Here at Hillel, we are all each others’ guardians, so let us say it for one another. I invite you to ask to put your arms around the shoulders of the people sitting next to you, so we can give this blessing to all who are here tonight: יְשִׂימְךָ אֱלֹהיִם כְּאֶפְרַיְם וְכִמְנַשֶּׁה יְשִׂימֵךְ אֱלֹהיִם כְּשָׂרָה רִבְקָה רָחֵל וְלֵאָה יְבָרֶכְךָ יְהוָה וְיִשְׁמְרֶךָ יָאֵר יְהוָה פָּנָיו  אֵלֶיךָ וִיחֻנֶּךָּ יִשָּׂא יְהוָה פָּנָיו אֵלֶיךָ וְיָשֵׂם לְךָ שָׁלום Yesimcha Elohim k’Ephraim v’chi-Menashe. Yesimech Elohim k’Sarah Rivka Rachel v’Leah Yivarechecha Adonai v’yishmerecha Ya’er Adonai panav eilecha vichuneka Yisa Adonai panav eilecha v’yasem lecha shalom As we observe Shabbat together, I ask for a few minutes of your time here at Hillel, a Jewish space. We’re a space that welcomes all -- welcomes all to this Jewish space. And, while we are often a place of Jewish joy, we are ultimately a place of Jewish everything -- all the feelings -- and of community. Earlier today, with everything happening in the world and in particular in the Middle East, a friend asked me: “Are you still hopeful?”  I paused. And, I answered her: I am. Right now, it is a hope in the unseen – but I hope. Indeed, the National Anthem of the State of Israel is called Ha’Tikvah – The Hope: “As long as in the heart within the Jewish soul yearns, and toward the eastern edges, onward, an eye gazes toward Zion,  our hope is not yet lost…” These are the opening words of Ha’Tikvah, translated. Tonight here at Hillel, to the Jewish and to the friends of the Jewish, I’m going to talk about some of the pain  being experienced in the last 36 hours by the Jewish people. Pain  as hopes  were crushed. Pain , it may sound weird to hear me say, that I hope  is felt by more than the Jewish people. Pain  … and hope . Hamas yesterday returned four bodies as part of a ceasefire agreement with Israel. Hamas returned the bodies of four people it murdered . Friends, I am going to spare you some of the details. They’re all online. But I am going to share some details, because it is important that we bear witness. Because Yarden Bibas, the surviving husband and father of three of the victims, has asked the world today to bear witness. It’s the least we can do for him. One of the bodies was that of Oded Lifshitz, a peace activist who helped transport Palestinians to Israeli hospitals across the border for medical care. Oded was a piano player and a grandfather. He was 83-years old. Oded was kidnapped from his home on October 7th, brought into Gaza, held hostage, and murdered. May Oded’s memory be for a blessing. Three hostages’ bodies were, we thought, those of Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir Bibas. I say “we thought” because the body Hamas claimed to be Shiri’s in fact wasn’t -- a vile trick. (And for those who haven’t heard: It’s been reported that that the body of Shiri, the mom of the Bibas family, is finally being delivered to Israel this evening. )  Ariel and Kfir Bibas – the youngest hostages. The red-headed children kidnapped while in their mother Shiri’s arms, whose fates filled our prayers. Our hopes have now been dashed and our worst fears have been realized. Ariel, 4 years old; Kfir, 9 months old. Hamas claimed they died in an Israeli airstrike – lies.  My heart breaks to say it: Ariel and Kfir were killed by their evil captors’ bare hands.  I’m saying these difficult things to you because you are adults. We all need to see  with clear eyes the world that is broken and that needs you  to help repair it. But I also want you to hear the words of the Kibbutz where the Bibases are from. They shared:  “We will remember Ariel by his rolling laugh and Kfir by his innocent smile. Ariel … a smiley, rambunctious child — a true redhead who loved superheroes, tractors and cars, and who never stopped jumping and climbing. Kfir ... was a calm, smiley baby, with red hair and a heart-melting laugh. Wherever he went, he smiled at everyone who waved. May their memories be for a blessing.” “May their memories be for a blessing.” That phrase doesn’t just mean “may we remember them.” When we bless children on Shabbat, we ask that they be  like Ephraim and Menashe; that they live  like Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah.  Above me on the wall here is the art project that was made last year during Israel Week at Hillel. “We will dance again.” It was inspired by the horrors of the Nova Music Festival on October 7th – and the conviction that even after that pain, there is purpose. There is a small flame of hope we must nurture and breathe life into. “We will dance again.” We will dance for  those who now cannot. With  those who now cannot. We will dance again. This weekend, as you  live your lives here : May you dance with the neshamas – the souls – of those who have been lost.  May you care for the stranger and bring music into the world like Oded Lifshitz. May you hold your friends and loved ones tightly like Shiri Bibas. May you smile like Ariel did as he wore his Batman costume with pride in the kibbutz.  May you laugh like Kfir did when his dad kissed his back and made him giggle with delight. May their memories be for a blessing to you, to us, wherever you are this Shabbat, and always. And may their memories inspire you to continue to reach out, to hug, to smile, to laugh – to hope. And, please, let us say, Amen. -Josh Levine: Edgar M. Bronfman Executive Director, Santa Barbara Hillel

For eight years, Joe Pasternack has served as the Head Coach for the Gaucho’s men’s basketball team. In his time coaching, Pasternack has dutifully led his team to dozens of successes, including two NCAA Tournament appearances, two championships, a Big West Coach of the Year award, and 148 wins in the first seven years of his time coaching at UCSB. With a winning percentage of .685, Coach Pasternack represents a significant point of pride for not only Santa Barbara’s basketball fans, but also its Jewish community.  Originally from Louisiana, Pasternack was raised in a reform Jewish family. By the time he had become a Bar Mitzvah, he had already known that he was destined for basketball in one way or another. In the fifth grade, Pasternack determined he would become a collegiate basketball coach, knowing that he was too “vertically challenged” to participate in the sport directly.  Pasternack got his start in coaching at Indiana University 25 years ago, where he served as a student manager under famed head coach Bobby Knight for the Hoosiers men’s basketball team. After graduating in 1999, he spent a decade working in professional coaching positions at UC Berkeley and for the University of New Orleans Privateers. In 2011, he was hired by the longtime basketball powerhouse University of Arizona, where he was eventually promoted to the position of Associate Head Coach. The team recorded a 174-47 record during the six years he spent there. In 2017, Pasternack was hired by Chancellor Yang and the then-Athletic Director John McCutcheon and he has been here ever since.  Jews have had a prominent role in basketball since its birth at the end of the 19th century, inaugurated by the children of European Jewish immigrants in Springfield, Massachusetts. By the mid-20th century, Jewish rosters were almost entirely made up of Jewish players. Some of the biggest names within the sport included basketball greats such as Ossie Schectman, Nat Holman, and Sammy Kaplan. After World War II, there was a major turning point within the sport as Jews began to shift toward roles in coaching, administrative, and broadcasting roles at both the professional and collegiate level. Today, this assembly of Jewish coaches includes NBA legend Larry Brown, the coach of the number one ranked Auburn Men’s Basketball team, Bruce Pearl, and of course our very own Joseph Pasternack.  Pasternack is a proud member of the Jewish Coaches Association which presents the Red Auerbach Award and holds annual events at the NBA and WNBA Final Four.  Pasternack has held fast to his Jewish identity, raising his son and daughter Jewish with his wife and Santa Barbara Hillel board member Lindsay Pasternack. His children’s favorite holiday is Hanukkah, making it his favorite by default. Pasternack has stated that to him Judaism is about “family, culture, and being proud of being Jewish.”