At Sephardic Bikur Holim’s summer extravaganza, the day was buzzing from morning to evening. There were dynamic speakers, fabulous food and jewelry to drool over. All this, and a constant throng of people relaxing and enjoying the day, made this event a summer splash.
Gail and Joseph Chehebar were our gracious hosts. Their lovely home was the perfect place to breathe in the cool ocean air, recline on the spacious wrap-around porch, and catch up with old friends. Indoors, there was a cacophony of sounds, from the “oohs” and “aahs” and “I hope I win that showcase of jewelry,” to the chatter surrounding the mouth-watering catered buffet. Three thought-provoking speakers rounded out the day, and a good time was had by all.
The first speaker was the well-known Atara Malach, prolific author, psychotherapist and private practitioner here and in Israel. She elicited laughter and a few tears as she enthralled us with personal stories about living through giving. She spoke about giving the benefit of the doubt, and giving to ourselves—as sometimes we are the last on the list. Her rapid-fire ideas kept our attention and gave us food for later thought. She was a privilege to listen to.
Joan Hornig, keynote speaker, fascinated her listeners with biographical tidbits of her rise to fame and success in jewelry design. The origins of her foundation, her philanthropical pursuits and her love of artistry, resonated among the many talented women sitting in the audience. Here was a woman who personified living through giving, and our community women easily related to this ideal.
Last but definitely not least was our homegrown celebrity, Poopa Dweck. She entertained the audience with behind-the-scene accounts of the publication of her book, Aromas of Aleppo. She spoke of the enormous gratification she felt when she was told her book was being translated into Hebrew, the holy language. Her traveling experiences, particularly in China, kept the rapt attention of her listeners, as did her travels to Istanbul, California and other markets. Poopa is an inspiration and a beloved member of our community, who sets the bar for the rest of us to emulate.
Of course, an event as perfectly orchestrated as this one had more than a few people diligently toiling away for long hours to bring it to fruition. Renna Calvo, our computer graphics dynamo, rose to every challenge regardless of the close deadlines, the heavy workload and the computer-challenged people around her. Sandy Esses and Cindy Antebi, our right hand women, took care of valet parking, tents, tables, cloths and a slew of details too numerous to mention. Lilly Shweky and Norma Antebi headed the food committee. Together with Lillie Ades, Renee Cohen, Bonnie Dabbah and one anonymous volunteer, they executed a sumptuous buffet of mouth-watering delicacies.
Sadie Harari gets the credit for the Chinese Auction prizes. Together with Pauline Assa, Grace Shalom and Tuni Missry, they amassed a collection of the finest pieces from our community jewelers. Lou Krupkin provided security, Janel Mizrahi was responsible for publicity, and Rico taped the event and set up the microphone system. Many other volunteers sat behind the ticket sale desks, transported chairs and tables, and contributed to the success of the day. We thank you all.
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Helene Mizrahi and Sara Matut are community members.
