LA MESA, California – Tisha B’Av is the saddest day of the Jewish year. Historically, this day marks the destruction of the two temples.
Looking at our past, the Holocaust is also acknowledged currently, and even now, on October 7. It makes sense to feel sad as we enter the weekend and observe the transition from Saturday night to Sunday night.
This will also be the “last weekend of freedom” for those heading back to school next week, so there will be a mix of happiness to see friends, make new ones, and start new classes, but also the sadness of having less screen time and getting back to going to bed early.
Whether you fully observe Tisha B’Av or not, possibly reflect on how we are resilient and how we can try to focus on something positive each day to drown out the darkness and hate in the world.
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UPCOMING EVENTS
Ohr Shalom Synagogue announces its “Shabbat at the Bay” at 6:45 p.m., Friday, August 15, at Playa Pacifica – Mission Bay Park. Organizers say to come early and bring a dairy/pareve picnic dinner along with your folding chairs and blankets. This will be the last “Shabbat at the Bay” for this summer.
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San Diego Center for Jewish Culture presents “The Spice Detective” at 2 p.m., Sunday, August 24, at the Lawrence Family JCC. Chef Yaniv will lead this event, which will explore Middle Eastern spices, include a hands-on cooking demo, and a question-and-answer session. Click here to register.
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Temple Emanu-El presents “Brushstrokes and Bellinis with Rabbi Benj” at 10 a.m., Sunday, August 31. This event is a fundraiser for the purchase of a new Torah and includes brunch and painting with a professional artist. This is an adult-only event. Click here to register.
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Hillel San Diego, Moishe House, and Jewish Networking Hub present a “Save the Date: Hillel Business Initiative Launch” at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, September 3, at the Melvin Garb Hillel Center. This event will include a panel of young Jewish professionals, a chance to network, and explore opportunities to get involved with the Hillel Business Initiative. Heavy appetizers and mocktails will be provided. Click here to register.
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Adopt a Family Foundation presents its “Gala Under the Stars” at 6 p.m., Sunday, September 14, at the Leichtag Commons. The event includes an exclusive preview of the Chai Concert by Shanee Zamir, honoring heroes of October 7. Click here for tickets or to donate, cocktail attire required.
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Jewish Federation of San Diego announces its “Men’s Mission to Cuba Trip,” Wednesday, November 5 to Sunday, November 9. The itinerary includes access and experiences, connecting with the Jewish community, immersing in Cuban culture, unforgettable camaraderie, and comfort and convenience. Click here to register.
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CHABAD CENTERS’ HAPPENINGS
University City announces its “Meet and Greet” at 7:30 p.m., Sunday, August 10. This event welcomes Rabbi Effy and Rebbetzin Doba Kahn over wine and cheese, hosted by Ori and Pascal Bortz.
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Chula Vista announces its “Bagels, Lox and Torah” at 9:30 a.m., Sunday, August 17. Click here to rsvp.
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East County announces its “Grand Opening Ceremony of Chabad Center for Jewish Life and Upshernish” at 11 a.m., Sunday, September 7. This event will include a ribbon cutting at the new location, followed by celebrating Leibel Andrusier turning three years old with the cutting of his hair. Click here to rsvp.
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AROUND THE COUNTY
Chabad of University City reports it is seeking volunteers to help refresh the shul’s backyard. The volunteer team will clean and wipe down the playground equipment, spread new grass seed, and keep it watered. All ages are welcome. Wear comfortable work clothes. Supplies and snacks will be provided. Click here to join the volunteer list, and a schedule will be assembled in the following weeks.
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Chabad of Downtown reports its congregants, Drs. Ayal and Yael Shavit welcomed the birth of a baby girl, Leah Noga. Mazal Tov!
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Chabad of East County reports registration for its “Hebrew School of the Arts” is now open. The classes meet at 4 p.m. on Mondays for grades PK-7th grade. Topics include Jewish holidays, Bar/Bat Mitzvah prep, love of Israel, and Hebrew reading. Click here for more information.
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Chabad at La Costa reports its Channah and Arthur Hale Jewish Educational Center building’s tile for the bathrooms and janitorial closet has arrived. The other flooring is scheduled to arrive in two weeks. The installation of the lighting is beginning next week.
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Temple Emanu-El reports Sharia’s Closet will be its “Mitzvah of the Month” for August. Items needed include women’s hygiene products, shampoo, and bar soap (small or medium-sized), new underwear, children’s clothing (new or gently used), and men’s clothing (new or gently used). Bring items to the white barrel in the office lobby. Click here for more information.
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Congregation Beth Am reports it needs volunteers to help at the “End of Summer Party” at 11 a.m., Sunday, August 17. Volunteers can help with set-up and clean up, BBQ pit masters, and food line helpers. Click here to volunteer.
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Cailin Acosta is the assistant editor of the San Diego Jewish World.