Links: Feature Article

Jewels of Elul August-21-2009




 
For the fifth consecutive year, Los Angeles-based Jewish musician and performer Craig Taubman and Craig ‘N Co. have published Jewels of Elul, a collection of stories and anecdotes for the Jewish High Holy Days. Twenty-nine different individuals, one for each day of the month of Elul, a time traditionally dedicated to reflection, each contributed one written piece on this year’s theme, “Inspirations on the Art of Forgiving.”

Jewels of Elul V includes 29 never-before published pieces from people including David Gregory, host of NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Noble Laureate Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Def Poetry Jam’s Hebrew Mamita Vanessa Hidary, couples therapist Esther Perel, author of “Mating in Captivity”, and Emmy-winning writer Rob Kutner of “The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien.”

“Over the last four years, we’ve been fortunate to share incredible stories from the Dalai Lama, then-Senator Obama as well as Senator McCain, but this year’s group has delivered something unique,” says Taubman. “Our theme The Art of Forgiving really touches the heart”. Taubman anticipates exceeding last year’s readership (over 250,000) thanks to a new partnership with with American Greetings who will feature the Jewels as part of their holiday card offerings.

With the wide range of personalities contributing, the tone of the anthology ranges from humorous to gritty, heart breaking to uplifting. According to Taubman, “Regardless of the exact nature of each piece, each is inspiring in a unique way.”

Jewish Family Service of Los Angeles will be the beneficiary of all proceeds raised from Jewels of Elul V. JFS is a multi-service agency that strengthens and preserves individual, family and community life by providing a wide range of needed human services, especially to those who are poor and disadvantaged. “As an organization that provides services to the broad community, Jewels of Elul offers us a special way to raise awareness and funds while people, hopefully, also find a bit of inspiration.” says Susie Forer-Dehrey, JFS Chief Operating Officer.

Beginning on August 21st, a new inspiration has been revealed each day and will continue for 29 days online at www.jewelsofelul.com. Organizations wishing to purchase the printed Jewels booklets in bulk quantities may do so through the website.

For more information on Jewels of Elul V, to receive excerpts, or to schedule interviews, please call Craig ‘N Co. at 800-6-CRAIG-8, or email info@jewelsofelul.com.

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