SAN DIEGO – “When can we eat?” Not only do we hear this as we gather for Passover, but I am sure this question was asked in many homes on Thanksgiving. It is always the debate. Do you serve Thanksgiving lunch, something between noon and 6 p.m., or serve as the sun sets for dinner?
Do Jews celebrate Thanksgiving? I read an interesting article from myjewishlearning.com. Most American Jews regard Thanksgiving as similar to the Fourth of July and devoid of religious associations. They embrace an American tradition. The holiday is focused on gratitude so it also provides a comfortable overlap between Jewish and American values.
Among Haredim, Thanksgiving is not widely observed. They routinely schedule annual conventions to begin on Thanksgiving Day. This is probably due to the fact its members are less likely to have work that day. Many Orthodox institutions and schools operate as usual on Thanksgiving.
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UPCOMING EVENTS
Temple Emanu-El will co-partner with the San Diego AIDS Memorial Task Force on World AIDS Day at which San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria will cut a ribbon on a memorial for San Diegans who have lost their lives to AIDS, at 10 a.m., Sunday, Dec. 1 at Olive Park.
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Chabad SDSU invites the community to attend A Night of Light at 6 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 4. Rabbi Chalom and Mairav Boudjnah will lead this event at which SDSU students will tell the challenges of daily life. Kosher certified hors d’oeuvres and wine will be served. Click here to rsvp and receive the location.
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Nefesh B’Nefesh hosts an Open House” at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 4, at which an aliyah advisor will give a short presentation followed by a question-and-answer session. Click here to register and to receive the location.
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Chabad at La Costa announces its weekly virtual Torah class with Rabbi Sholom Eilfort at 6 p.m., Thursdays Dec. 5, 12, 19 and 26 on his father Rabbi Yeruchem Eilfort’s Facebook feed.
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Women of Beth Jacob Congregation host a Pre-Chanukah Gift Exchange Party” at 8 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 8. They ask attendees to bring a wrapped gift (between $10-15) to swap. The theme is kitchen and self-care gifts. Soup, bread, and cider will be served. Click here to rsvp.
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Congregation Beth Israel’s Cooking with Caring Community presents its “Chanukah Edition” at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 11. The Zoom event will be hosted by Rabbi Jason Nevarez, Rabbi Cantor Emerita Arlene Bernstein, Rabbi Cantor Jeremy Gimbel and Rabbi Ackerman Hirsch as they share Chanukah latke recipes and traditions. Click here to register.
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Ohr Shalom Synagogue hosts lecturer Allison Madwatkins, esq., who will discuss “Practical Ways to Use Artificial Intelligence” at 9:30 a.m., Sunday, Dec. 15.
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Chabad of Poway announces its Grand Menorah Lighting, Thursday, Dec. 26 at North County Mall, and its Grand Chanukah Party and Carnival,” Sunday, Dec. 29 at Chabad of Poway.
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Coastal Roots Farm presents “Fields of Light: A Chanukah Celebration” at 4 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 29. People of any or no faith background are welcome. Click here to register.
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AROUND THE COUNTY
Chabad of Poway reports Rabbi Mendel and Shterna Goldstein welcomed a daughter, Soshe Goldstein. Chabad of Poway also reports that congregants Rabbi Shuie and Devorah Goldstein welcomed a son, Levi Yitzchak Goldstein.
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Ohr Shalom Synagogue shares an Instagram post from Christie’s Place thanking the congregation for the generous donations towards its Turkey Mania Drive.
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Chabad of East County reports its philanthropy campaign to purchase the new Jewish center has received half of its goal of fundraising $360,000. Click here to donate.
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Kindness Initiative shares the following story of finding stability and success: Sarah (name changed for privacy) came to Kindness Initiative facing immense challenges. Not only was she homeless and jobless, but she was also grappling with complex mental health issues that made rebuilding her life seem nearly impossible. “Our team approached her situation with care, offering a modest stipend for three months while she worked closely with a case manager and resource specialist. Together, they helped Sarah access vital resources like food and secure a safe place to park her car. Her case manager connected her with mental health services, while the resource specialist guided her through the job search process—helping her update her resume, apply for jobs, and practice interview skills. When Sarah finally received a job offer, kindnessG’MACH provided professional clothing and toiletries, and we covered the costs for her LiveScan and TB test, ensuring nothing stood in her way. Sarah is now employed, working hard to save for her own apartment, and when she’s ready, kindnessG’MACH will assist in furnishing her new home. Sarah’s journey to stability is a testament to the power of personalized support, addressing both immediate needs and long-term well-being. With the right help, even the most complex challenges can lead to hope and independence.”
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Cailin Acosta is the assistant editor of the San Diego Jewish World.