When she was still living in Florida, Cantor Natalie Young had a dream about bringing “all the talented people together to explore the rich culture we have to offer, to build up the leaders in the community and to build…
Blog (page 2)
Whither Objective Journalism? Just the Facts, Ma’am.
At a recent Shabbat lecture at University Synagogue, journalist Joel Kotkin discussed media bias. In his opinion this issue is not limited to mainstream media. It crosses party lines and political perspectives. Where, then, can ordinary people get pure, unadulterated…
The Story of Purim
A long time ago in a galaxy not too far away, the Persians would have gotten away if it weren’t for princess Esther… The Germans weren’t the first to try and exterminate the Jews. A long time ago in a…
Arbors and Hope
Tu B’Shevat, the 15th of Shevat is the Jewish Arbor Day in the land of Israel. This year the holiday begins at sundown on Friday, February 10, and lasts through Saturday, February 11. Celebrate like those in Israel with a Seder. …
Strengthening Israel’s Democratic Foundation: The Role of the Israel Democracy Institute
Examining the Challenges and Solutions in Shaping Israeli Democracy
Exploring Jewish History and Identity: Prof. David Ruderman’s Insights
A Fascinating Journey through Time and Culture with the 16th Annual CSP One Month Scholar
Celebrating Community Commitment: Honoring Unsung Heroes at Beth Jacob Congregation of Irvine
A Gala Dinner Recognizing Dedication, Service, and Security in the Irvine Jewish Community
Ethics in the Field: Balancing Security and Humanity in the Israeli Defense Forces
An Inside Look at the IDF’s Commitment to Ethics and Security
Balancing Borders and Compassion: America’s Immigration Dilemma
America debates border security and compassion, we ask: How do we protect our nation while aiding those in need?
Celebrating Tradition and Unity: Kol Isha Shabbat Service at Temple Beth El
A Creative and Inclusive Shabbat Service That Brings the Community Together
Balance and Hope
On one side of the freeway, the deep charcoal gray clouds signal the ominous deluge of much-needed rain that will nourish the ultra-dry terrain in Southern California. On the other side of the freeway, the sun sparkles against the tall…
Lessons from the 2016 Election: The Power of Empathy
In the aftermath of a shocking election, the bitter taste of disappointment lingers.
Reflections on a Lifelong Love Affair with American Politics
Jews do their civic duty, no matter what
High Holy Days give us time to focus on our deepest feelings
Breathe in the fragrance of round challah and honey cake. Experience the newness of the synagogue décor and the clothing. Hear the shofar and heed its call. The High Holy Days are a treat for the senses, but they are…
Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company offers message of peace and harmony
The Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company (KCDC) had four sold-out performances at the Sydney Opera House. What a thrill to be able to attend a performance, see these remarkably talented dancers and have the opportunity to meet with some of the…
Embracing Elul: A Month of Reflection and Renewal
Preparing for the High Holy Days and the Ongoing Journey of Becoming
Remembering Emily Neufeld
TVT opens its door to the 2016-7 term and seniors climb the stairs for their final year. It is a year filled with much excitement and celebration while feeling a profound loss for one particular stolen youth. The shadow of…
21st Century Politics: The Erosion of Dignity and Decency
Navigating the Troubled Waters of the Presidential Election
A Glimpse into the Trump Campaign: A Closer Look
Exploring the Changing Landscape of American Politics
Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt: A Jewish/Israeli Creation
Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt is the best place for a sweet kosher treat. Opening their doors in 2007 in Valley Village, a popular suburban area for young Jewish families, Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt was actually started by a Jewish husband and wife…
“Chana” Women in the Bible
Women are not often named in the Bible. In fact the only ones we read about are ones crucial to the story line. What would the Story of Creation be without Eve by Adam’s side yet we do not know…
Talking about Tradition: The Mitzvah of Brit Milah, Circumcision
There are 613 mitzvot that Jews are supposed to keep. Some are positive and some negative. The positive ones equal 248, which also equals the number of bones and vital organs in our body. There are 365 negative commandments, which…
Talking about Tradition: What Happened When, and How Did It Shape Our History?
The People’s Chronology: A Year-by-Year Record of Human Events from Prehistory to the Present by James Trager is truly an amazing 1,206-page book (which is unfortunately out of print). The book, published in 1979, details everything imaginable from 3 million…
Embracing Our Jewish Identity
Navigating the Challenges of Assimilation and Anti-Semitism