LA MESA, California – Many of us woke up with heavy hearts as we went to bed last night learning of the Israel attack on Iran’s military leaders and nuclear facilities. Conflicts and war are controversial since many innocent people are killed on both sides.
Yesterday just seemed like the “hits just kept on coming” from the ongoing ICE raids, civil unrest in Los Angeles, and politicians being forcefully detained. I just shook my head as my news alerts went off and thought, ‘What is going on?’ Everyone is so angry. It is very sad. I refrain from discussing politics, as it can be a very emotional and heated topic for some people. I like to keep the peace and will be a listening ear to those who need or want someone to hear them.
It is important to stay present, aware, and engaged. Many protests are scheduled this weekend, and I hope they stay peaceful. I am reminded of the La Mesa riots that occurred five years ago and the destruction that happened to many establishments I frequented. There are so many issues that demand our involvement and support.
Today is June 13, and for Jewish people, it holds a deep significance. The number 613 reminds us of the guiding principles that shape Jewish life; principles rooted in compassion, courage, and collective responsibility.
We are resilient and we will prevail.
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UPCOMING EVENTS
Lawrence Family JCC announces its “Family Summer Fun Nights” will return starting at 4 p.m., Thursday, June 19 at the Friedenberg Olympic Pool. These weekly Thursday events include music, food, beverages, and the perk of being a member. Click here to rsvp.
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San Diego Public Library, San Carlos Branch announces “Author Talk with Dr. Shayna Kaufmann” at 2 p.m., Friday, June 27. Kaufmann will discuss her book Embrace the Middle and have copies for purchase.
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Ohr Shalom Synagogue presents a two-part series on Bonsai trees at 10 a.m., Sunday, June 29, and July 20. The event will be led by congregate Bob Houston who will give instructions on how to grow and shape the trees.
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Murray Galinson San Diego-Israel Initiative presents “Salon Event: Higher Education Under Fire: Professor Roundtable” at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, June 19 in the La Jolla area. Professor Nehama Lewis will discuss the unique challenges facing researchers and educators in Israel since October 7. Click here to rsvp and to receive the address.
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Temple Emanu-El presents “JPride Weekend” occurring Friday, July 18 until Sunday, July 20. This weekend will provide a space where its Jewish and LGBTQ+ identities can be seen, supported, and celebrated with joy. More information to follow.
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CHABAD CENTERS’ HAPPENINGS
Poway urges its congregants to pray for the soldiers and the safety of others. It invites the community to light Shabbat candles, pray in unison, and join Shabbat services at 10 a.m., Saturday, June 14. Click here for assistance.
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Downtown presents “Jewish Insights: Weekly Torah Study” at 7 p.m., occurring on Tuesday nights. Click here to rsvp.
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To view other events, previously listed in this column, please visit our San Diego Jewish Community Calendar page.
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AROUND THE COUNTY
Young Israel of San Diego shares the following recipe: Baba Ganoush
Ingredients:
1 eggplant
3 garlic cloves minced
¼ cup cilantro
1/8 cup 100% sesame tahini
1 half lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish: olive oil sumac
Directions: Grill the eggplants over a flame on a gas burner, a hot grill, or under the broiler. Turn with tongs until soft and evenly charred. Allow the eggplants to cool. Peel the skin off the eggplant and place it on the cutting board. Chop it lightly. Add garlic, cilantro, tahini, lemon juice, and salt and pepper. Chop well to mix everything. Spoon onto a plate or bowl, drizzle olive oil, and sprinkle sumac to garnish before serving. Baba Ganoush can be served at room temperature or kept cold in the fridge for 3-4 days.
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Chabad of Chula Vista urges its congregants to say Tehillim (especially Psalm 123), give tzedakah, men to put on tefillin, women, and girls to light Shabbat candles, study Torah and pray for Israel.
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Chabad of Downtown urges its congregants to pray for the safety and protection of those in harm’s way in Israel. Do a mitzvah for Israel, say a prayer, perform acts of kindness, and take on a resolution to do a mitzvah.
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Chabad of Poway reports its outdoor Mikvah is now available for use of immersing new utensils. Click here for an appointment.
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Congregation Beth Am reports to its congregants that its security team has been fully briefed, has reviewed its safety protocols, and will have an elevated, vigilant, and firm security posture throughout the weekend. Due to the recent events involving Israel and Iran, as well as the planned protests, they have been in close communication with Secure Community Network, Anti-Defamation League, and the San Diego Police Department who have all confirmed there are no active threats to the San Diego community at this time.
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Temple Emanu-El reports its “Mitzvah of the Month” will be collecting eyeglasses and hearing aids which will be donated to the Lions Optometric Vision Clinic. Put eyeglasses, glasses cases, frames, and hearing aids in the white barrels in the lobby.
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Jewish Federation of San Diego reports it is now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 cohort of the Pauline Foster Women’s Leadership Institute. Participants will engage over several months in leadership development, Jewish learning, mentorship, and connection. Click here to apply or nominate someone by Monday, June 30.
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San Diego Hebrew Day School reports its first graders hosted its annual “Donuts with Dudes” event. The Dads were invited to join their students for a morning filled with connections and treats. Each student prepared a thoughtful, handmade gift, and was a meaningful moment for both students and their loved ones.
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OBITUARY NOTICE
Laurence Rivkin, husband of Naomi Rivkin, father of David and Jonathan (Shelly) Rivkin, grandfather of Ashley (Sam) Stone, Jason, Jordan, and Alexis Rivkin, great-grandfather of Kaya and Serena Stone, has died. The funeral was held on Thursday, June 12 at El Camino Memorial Park with Rabbi Jeremy Gimbel of Congregation Beth Israel as officiant, Am Israel Mortuary reports.
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Cailin Acosta is the assistant editor of the San Diego Jewish World.