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Jewish Holiday Spotlight: Shavuot
There are a variety of Jewish identities and denominations: Israeli, American, Reform, Conservative, Orthodox, traditional and more. With so many different expressions of Judaism in the world, what is it that binds us together as Jews? The answer is the Torah.
What is the Torah? The Torah consists of the Five Books of Moses, known in English as Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy. In the Torah are the stories and the sayings, the laws and the lessons, comprising the spirit of the Jewish people. The Torah has bound Jews together during all of Jewish history and is what Jewish life is based upon.
The holiday of Shavuot commemorates the anniversary of the giving of the Torah by G-d on Mount Sinai. This year Shavuot begins on Saturday night, May 19th. Shavuot means “weeks” in Hebrew as it comes seven weeks after Passover. The story of the giving of the Torah begins with G-d freeing the Israelites from Egypt and bringing them safely through the Sea of Reeds.
Shavuot represents a remarkable moment in the story of the Jewish people – when G-d chose to enter into a covenant with the Jewish people by giving us the Torah with the Ten Commandments. Some of the world’s most important lessons come from the Torah: Honor your father and mother; do not murder (Exodus 20:12-13); love one another as you love yourself (Leviticus 19:17). Do you know that even the inscription on the Liberty Bell comes from the Torah? “Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof” (Leviticus 25:10).
The Torah belongs to all of us. It is our history and our destiny. It is our source of values, wisdom and purpose. Here’s an idea for you to do to celebrate Shavuot in a personal way. What are the ten everyday commandments that you need to guide you at home, or in your social or work life? Write a list (e.g. Control my temper, call Mom, cut down on fats – you get the idea) and place it on your desk, nightstand, or refrigerator. Review your list regularly to see how you’re doing . . .
Chag Shavuot Sameach! Happy Shavuot!
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May 4, 2018 | 6:00pm
Shabbat Family Service with Jason Mesches Concert – Temple Solel
Kids Jewish Rock Star Jason Mesches will help lead the service and perform a concert for the children with Bimah Beats. Click here for more information.
May 4 - 6, 2018
Old Town Fiesta Cinco de Mayo
Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo will feature live entertainment on the Café Coyote Stage on both Saturday and Sunday! Mariachi music will fill the event on stage and throughout the event footprint as roving performances fill the streets. Watch in amazement as dancers fill the stage between musical acts, featuring Aztec Dancers, rope trick performances and Ballet Folklorico performances. Stroll through the iconic Lowrider Lane and be wowed by the unique paint jobs and car modifications that have become a Fiesta favorite. Feed your appetite at a variety of delectable Old Town dining options or one of the many food vendors. Click here for more information.
May 6, 2018 | 4:00 - 5:30pm
Documentary Film Screening Hatikvah: Perceptions and Connections to Israel's National Anthem – Beth Israel
Through an honest and thoughtful inspection of people's perceptions and connections to Israel's National Anthem, Hatikvah reveals a delicately nuanced story of a Jewish people, living under different flags in different countries, striving to define their relationship with Israel. Simple questions lead to complex answers as the knotted threads of Jewish history, culture, family, politics and legacies are teased apart by Jews from all walks of life. Hatikvah will leave viewers a little challenged and extremely inspired. It's the kind of film you carry around with you for months. Film screening to be followed by discussion led by Rabbi Gimbel. Israeli Snack Pot Luck: You are encouraged to bring an Israeli side dish to share! Hummus, Israeli Salad, etc. No fee, but please RSVP. Click here to register.
May 8, 2018
National Teacher’s Day
Everybody who does something good, important, and valuable deserves a day in their honor. Teachers certainly are among the most deserving. This day honors those hard working, patient and understanding people whom we entrust our children to. Teachers mold our kids in a positive direction, affecting who they are and who they become. From Kindergarten through college, teachers are an important part of our children's lives.
May 12, 2018 | 1:30 - 4:00pm
Classical Connections Family Festival
Connecting San Diego families through the power of vibrant stories and classical music.Reach Out and Read - San Diego and Classics 4 Kids partner for a family-friendly afternoon of live music, interactive storytelling and more. At Crill Hall on the campus of Point Loma Nazarene University. Click here for more information.
May 12, 2018 | 11:00am - 10:00pm
Festival of Arts in North Park
On the forefront of the art scene, the SDCCU Festival of Arts in North Park celebrates all types of art forms including a live art element. There will be something for everyone, including the kids. Our hands-on Kids Art Block offers children the chance to participate in a variety of interactive activities designed to stimulate and inspire their imaginations and create their own masterpieces. Come thirsty to the Craft Beer Block and sample brews from San Diego's favorite breweries. All proceeds benefit North Park Main Street, the non-profit organization committed to the revitalization of the North Park Business Improvement District. There will be something for everyone, including the kids. There will also be a hands-on Kids Art Block, providing kids a great opportunity to participate in interactive activities designed to stimulate, inspire their imaginations and create their own masterpieces. Click here for more information.
May 13, 2018
Mother's Day
It’s your day, moms! Whether is spending a fun-filled day with your children or maybe getting a babysitter and getting in a spa day with other moms, enjoy this day that is all about you! And don’t forget to show your love and appreciation to your mom, she taught you everything we know.
May 17, 2018 | 7:00pm
Challah Circle - JCC
This is a monthly get-together to make challah at the JCC. During the Circle, you will learn how to make a holiday-themed challah, knead the dough, let it rise and shape it. While the dough is rising, you can join in a text-based conversation or shmooze with your friends. You’ll leave with your ready-to-bake challah which will bring sweet and aromatic smells to your kitchen on Friday, in time for Shabbat. Space is limited. Following your registration, you’ll receive a list of basic supplies to bring to prepare your challah. All ingredients will be provided. Price: $10, Men, women, and children over 12 are welcome. Click here for more information.
May 19 - 20, 2018 | 9:00am - 9:00pm
Fiesta del Sol
The Solana Beach Chamber of Commerce has been hosting this FREE 2-day Arts & Music Festival for 39 years as a kick off to Summer in Solana Beach! The event takes place at Fletcher Cove. The Belly Up is lining up a great list of musicians to perform over the two-day event, which includes local community talent. We also have a large, fun, and exciting Children’s Area set up for families to enjoy rides, games, and a climbing wall. Featuring food trucks, arts & crafts area, and Solana Beach Fireman’s Pancake Breakfast on Sunday. Click here for more information.
Every Sunday - House of Israel – FREE!
Visit this showcase of Israeli culture, history, and innovation in the heart of Balboa Park. Click here for more information.
Sign Up to be a Host Family – Hands of Peace
Hands of Peace, a unique interfaith program developing peace-building and leadership skills in Israeli, Palestinian, and American teens through the power of dialogue and personal relationships, is accepting applications for host families. The program takes place from July 11 - 30, at Pacific Ridge School in Carlsbad. Apply NOW to be a host family by filling out an online application at www.handsofpeace.org. For questions, contact Sarah Heirendt at (559) 999-7066 or sheirendt@handsofpeace.org.
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As soon as May rolls around, kids and parents start the countdown to summer. Parents are registering their kids for summer camps and activities. And the kids are itching for school to be out and to be free of homework. 
Because it is customary to eat dairy foods on Shavuot, enjoy this delicious and easy project!
