In the Greater Community
Note: The items below are NOT in date order.
December
Jewish Baby Network Presents A Virtual Jewish Birth Prep Workshop
Sunday, December 8, 3:00–5:00 PM, Zoom
Learn about rituals during pregnancy, labor and delivery, choosing a Hebrew name, circumcision/bris, naming and welcoming ceremonies, Jewish parenting and more. LEARN MORE & REGISTER
OFJCC Presents Live Chanukah Shows With A Cappella Vocal Band Six13
Sunday, December 15, 4:30 PM & 6:30 PM
The groundbreaking, six-man a cappella vocal band Six13 will be performing twice for their Chanukah special. Juxtaposing the traditional and the contemporary, Six13 is anchored by a strong Jewish identity, fueled by soulful harmonies, intricate arrangements and their signature dynamic, full-band-like sound, and driven by a mission to connect Jews around the world with their heritage through music. Don't miss out on this epic opportunity to witness the award-winning a capella group, Six13, live at the OFJCC. LEARN MORE & PURCHASE TICKETS
Yiddish Favorites Old and New
Tuesday, December 17, 1:00–2:00 PM, Albert & Janet Schultz Cultural Arts Hall, OFJCC, 3921 Fabian Way Palo Alto
Join Cindy Paley's klezmer trio for a rich and rousing evening of Yiddish Favorites, Old and New! Come ready to learn and sing along to the vibrant and colorful songbook of Eastern European Jewry's unique cultural history. The popular Yiddish folk songs of Itzik Manger and Mordechai Gebirtig, among others, are sure to stir your nostalgia. LEARN MORE & REGISTER
Israel at War: What's Next for the
Jewish People? A Conversation
with Tal Becker
Saturday, December 14, 7:30–9:00 PM,
OFJCC, 3921 Fabian Way Palo Alto
In this lecture, Tal Becker will examine the current struggle Israel faces and its profound implications for Jewish peoplehood. As Israel grapples with internal and external challenges, Jewish communities worldwide are feeling the impact. Becker will explore how these dynamics are reshaping Jewish identity, solidarity and the evolving relationship between Israeli and Diaspora Jews. LEARN MORE & REGISTER
Representatives from Israeli Bedouin Communities Visit Etz Chayim
Sunday, December 15, 12:30-2:30 PM, Congregation Etz Chayim, 4161 Alma Street, Palo Alto
The Bedouin community living near Gaza was deeply impacted by October 7. At least 17 were killed on that day and eight taken to Gaza. Other members of the community demonstrated remarkable heroism in saving their fellow Israelis from Hamas. Qaid Farhan al-Qadi, an Israeli-Bedouin, was rescued on August 27, 2024 after 326 days in captivity.
The CEO of the Regional Council for the Unrecognized Villages of the Negev (RCUV) Dr. Yeela Raanan along with Obna Sana, a Bedouin Architect and Urban planner, will discuss their experiences. LEARN MORE & REGISTER
(Be sure to join us for bagels and cream cheese from 12:00 to 1:00 PM.)
Do you know how to play the game of Canasta?
A Beth Am member is looking for others to learn to play Canasta. If you would like to teach Canasta to our community, please email info@betham.org.
Make a Lasting Impact – Volunteer as a Mentor or Tutor with Mentor Tutor Connection (MTC)
Are you passionate about making a positive difference in your community? Mentor Tutor Connection (MTC), a nonprofit supporting underserved students in Los Altos and Mountain View public schools since 1997, is seeking dedicated volunteers to join our mentoring and tutoring programs. This is a unique opportunity to give back and help students thrive academically and personally. MTC is in urgent need of mentors to work with high school students. Several students are waiting for a mentor to guide them, provide encouragement, and offer support as they navigate their academic and personal journeys. Time commitment is 1 hour, twice a month. Additionally, MTC is also looking for tutors to support K-8 students in subjects like Math, English Language Arts and more. Whether you have a passion for helping younger students succeed or expertise in a specific subject, your help can make a huge difference in their education. For K-8 students, time commitment is 1 hour per week. To learn more, visit mentortutorconnection.org or email info@mentortutorconnection.org.
Little Lights: Hanukkah Shabbat Celebration (for 3-5-year-olds)
Friday, December 13, 8:30-10:00, AM, Hausner Campus, Music Room/Troper building.
Join Hausner’s Kindergarten children and their wonderful teachers for a joyful playdate! Included will be:
- Lively Shabbat Celebration
- Special Hanukkah PJ Library Storytime
- Festive Dance Party with Live Music
- Delicious Treats for Chanukah
Temple Emanu-El Latkes & Laughs
Sunday, December 15, Doors Open @5:30 PM, Dinner @7:00 PM, 1010 University Avenue, San Jose
Join for the 11th Annual Latkes & Laughs “FUNdraiser” and unique get together in the Jewish community, open to everyone! Sit around the table with friends and family to share laughter, sufganyiot and multiple opinions! Bring an appetite as a full Chanukah dinner will be served this year before the comedy show. Comedians include: Cash Levy, Julie Ash and Temple Emanu-El's Jeff Applebaum. Ticket prices aret: $54/pp; $18/student; (optional) $20 ticket for a drink in our speakeasy. PURCHASE TICKETS
Registration Is Now Open for Club Z Nat'l Teen Conference
January 17 to 20, 2025, San Francisco
Calling all proud Jewish teen (9th-12th grade) Zionist warriors! It's time to unite, learn and have an incredible time. This isn't just any conference — it's THE high school Zionist event of the year. Registration for the 10th Annual Club Z National Teen Conference is officially open! REGISTER NOW