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Retired lawyer Oak Dowling discusses ‘60s Jewish comedian Lenny Bruce and the obscenity trials that dogged his career. $8-$12.
Opening reception of Catherine Stern’s exhibit of Torah-inspired, hand-dyed silk artworks. With Q&A and light refreshments. Exhibit through Jan. 1.
Marking 70 years. Honoring Jewish community stalwarts Barbro Osher and Rabbi Brian Lurie. All proceeds benefit the JCC’s Fund for the Future. $180 and up.
S.F. State professor Marc Dollinger presents his book on the relationship between Jews and black activists in the ’60s. In conversation with Ilana Kaufman of the Jews of Color Field Building Initiative. Free; RSVP required.
Biologist Gary Frohlich discusses Ashkenazi genetics and diseases; includes dinner. Free, advance RSVP required.
Hanukkah dance party for all ages. Free.
One session or 6-week series. $8-$10 or $30-$40 for all six.
2018 documentary explores the Jewish origins of legendary jazz label Blue Note. Best of S.F. Jewish Film Festival series. $10-$15, $27 for all 3 films.
Journalist Manli Ho speaks about her late father, Feng Ho Shan, a Chinese diplomat and longtime S.F. resident who issued visas for thousands of Jews in Austria during the Holocaust. Free, RSVP required.
2017 Israeli documentary made by a gay, deaf man who starts a family with a deaf woman. In Hebrew with English subtitles. Best of S.F. Jewish Film Festival series. $10-$15.
Panel discussion on how local Jewish communities can create inclusive spaces for trans and gender non-conforming youth. Free; RSVP required.
L.A.-based New Jewish Women’s Theatre production explores stories of youthful indiscretions and naughty activities. $18-$25.
Documentary on the 1986 partnership in New York City between a young, white, Jewish harmonica player and a black street musician. Q&A with director. Finale of Best of S.F. Jewish Film Festival series.
Half-hour documentary on responses to anti-immigrant violence in New York, includes remarks by Brandeis Marin’s Peg Sandel and San Rafael Police Chief Diana Bishop. Free; RSVP required.
Joanne Greene discusses preserving Jewish identity in mixed-faith or “no-faith” families. $8-$10.
Band combining gospel music with Jewish lyrics performs. Beer, wine and concessions available. $10-$40.
Family carnival with live music, bounce house, carnival games and hamantaschen. Free.
Live music, food and games. Preceded at 9:30 a.m. by “Family Connections” gathering for toddlers to age 3. Free.
Program of classical music made under repressive regimes, centered around a concerto by Jewish composer Edwin Schulhoff, whose music was banned by the Nazis. $29-$61.
Kids’ rock band performs, preceded by hands-on crafts. $10.
Trailblazing food journalist talks about her career and her new book, “Save Me the Plums: My Gourmet Memoir.” $40 for one person, $55 for two, including book.
Opening reception for photo exhibit chronicling destruction, loss and renewal at Camp Newman, ravaged by fire in 2017. Free; RSVP required.
Author known for the controversial 1973 book “Fear of Flying” discusses her new poetry book, “The World Began With Yes.” $8-$12.
Veteran Israeli politician and former interim president of Israel discusses his 2018 book “In Days to Come: A New Hope for Israel.” $15-$25.
Deaf, Odessa-born Jewish poet Ilya Kaminsky reads from his works, including the award-winning “Dancing in Odessa.” With local poet-essayist Heather Altfelt. Free; RSVP required.
Public invited as Israeli artists Maya Gelfman and Roie Avidan create a site-specific mural. Photo exhibit of their journey through 42 states on display through Aug. 25. Free.
A look at some of the films in the upcoming festival, set to run July 18 to Aug. 4. Free; RSVP required.
Ricardo Lemvo and Makina Loca play music inspired by their Afro-Latin roots as part of the Marin Summer Nights Music Series. Ages 17 and under free.
Learn Israeli dances with longtime teacher Carol Friedman.
Instructor Eli Cohen shares Chinese medicine practices for better sleep.
Artists Danny Click and the Hell Yeahs! perform as part of Marin Summer Nights Music Series. Ages 17 and under free.
The Pacific Mambo Orchestra fuses salsa, mambo, Latin jazz and Cha Cha Cha. Part of the Marin Summer Nights Series.
A talk and video presentation by the JCC’s Joanna Greene and her videographer husband, Fred, who visited Uganda’s Abayudaya (People of Judah) Jewish community earlier this year.
Join others in a calm and respectful discussion. This week: Understanding the beliefs and politics of others, with an emphasis on listening. Space limited; registration required.
Tomer Persico, Koret visiting assistant professor at UC Berkeley, leads a talk on Israeli society, the two-state solution and the upcoming election.
Four-week course, steeped in Jewish wisdom, to help get ready for the High Holidays. Also Sept. 15, 23 and Oct. 7. RSVP required.
Opening reception for Laurie Wohl’s textile art that visually interprets the wonder and sanctity of Shabbat. Through Jan. 3, 2019.
Award winning ensemble group performs “Trade Winds,” a mixture of compositional and poetic works from China.
Tasting of apples and honey for the new year. Co-hosted by Marin Kesher Family Concierge.
A talk about how Donald Trump was influenced by and connected to Roy Cohn, famous attorney and power broker. With video clips.
Actor-author discusses his book of political poetry, “Dumpty: The Age of Trump in Verse,” in conversation with KQED Radio’s Michael Krasny.
Romantic comedy about three friends in New York City, with Ben Stiller portraying a rabbi.
Documentary tells the story of the earliest Japanese immigrants to the U.S. Panel discussion with filmmaker Antonia Grace Glenn to focus on Japanese American internment camps.
Tom Weidlinger discusses his new book about his father, Paul, one of last century’s most important structural engineers. With book signing.
Workshop on the joy and challenges of grandchildren. Led by Dawn Kepler of Building Jewish Bridges.
Women’s vocal ensemble performs a trove of seasonal music from Eastern European ethnic/spiritual traditions, including medieval Sephardic Hanukkah songs. Wine, beer, other beverages and baked goods for sale.
A talk on how to appreciate the spirit of Christmas, dealing with holiday over-commercialization and not compromising one’s own beliefs.
All-ages festival with dancing, dreidels, cookie decorating, storytelling, bouncy house, latkes, face painting and more. Toddlers’ party at preschool 9:30-11:30 a.m.
An exploration of California’s history of immigration and exclusion, the current reality for immigrants in the community, and ideas for tangible action to take on behalf of vulnerable immigrants in Marin. RSVP by Jan. 6.
Rabbi Lee Bycel discusses refugees, their hardships and adjustments and his new book. With refugee Meron Semedar from Eritrea. RSVP required.
Hands-on art precedes a family-focused interactive concert with crazy characters and upbeat songs. Snacks and drinks for purchase.
Using restored Holocaust-era violins, Daniel Hope and New Century Chamber Orchestra members perform music by Jewish composers. With footage from Hope's film “Refuge in Music: Terezín/Theresienstadt.”
2019 comedy about a stand-up (Ben Schwartz) moving back home to Long Island and his unlikely friendship with an eccentric dermatologist (Billy Crystal). Part of “Best of S.F. Jewish Film Festival 2019.”
Storyteller Diane Ferlatte and a banjo/guitar player honor Martin Luther King Jr. and his legacy through stories and song.
Arts and crafts, carnival games, food, and live music. Attendees encouraged to come in costume.
KQED’s host of Forum’s “Life on Stage” show speaks with the California Congresswoman. RSVP recommended.
A new series at Kanbar Center kicks off with blues-rock guitarist-songwriter Danny Click. KQED radio’s Krasny serves as host and interviewer.
Documentary that follows Amos Nachoum, an underwater still photographer. In English and Hebrew, with English subtitles. Part of “Best of S.F. Jewish Film Festival.”
Osher Marin JCC presents an outdoor event for families with kids, with lessons about plants associated with Sukkot and what they represent. With music, crafts. Bring a plant to make a lulav with.
Local artists Nancy Bardach, Lauren Bartone and Cindy Ostroff talk about “Process,” their mixed-media exhibit about inspiration and creativity on display through Jan. 5, 2022 in the Marin JCC’s Isaac Gallery. Registration required.
Osher Marin JCC invites kids and others to an event in its parking lot with crafts, music, sufganiyot, dancing, storytelling and more.
Educational program for kids and their families to tour the Marin JCC’s biblical garden, learn about the seven species of Israel and the holiday.
Opening of an exhibit on the biblical tradition and how it relates to our modern relationships with land, food, debt, work/rest and equity. Environmental educator Naama Sadan talks about how shmita is practiced in Israel. In collaboration with Hazon's Shmita Prize. Proof of vaccination, masks required.
Zack Bodner, president and CEO of Oshman Family JCC, discusses his new book, subtitled “A Manifesto for 21st Century Jewish Peoplehood,” on making Jewish identity a meaningful and relevant part of everyday life. Proof of vaccination and masks required. Ticket includes book.
Family-friendly event with music, crafts, doughnuts, dancing, storytelling and more. Sign up for a one-hour time slot. Presented by PJ Library and JFCS Youth First. Registration required.
Shalom Hartman Institute scholar and UC Berkeley visiting instructor Masua Sagiv discusses how the Book of Esther has revolutionized contemporary Jewish feminism.
Finale of an exhibit on the Biblical “year off” and how it relates to our modern relationships with land, food, debt, work/rest and equity. Environmental educator Naama Sadan talks about shmita in Israel. In collaboration with Hazon's Shmita Prize. Proof of vaccination, masks required. Registration required.
First in three-part series on gender and family in Jewish history, tradition and culture. Topics include the gender binary, historical-social construction of masculinity/feminism and the Jewish family in the context of U.S. society. Also April 6, 13. Donation suggested.
Translated “Song of Songs” reading by UC Berkeley professor Robert Alter, with a lecture on the book’s liturgical use during Passover. Plus readings of contemporary love poetry by Marin Poetry Center poets. Outdoors.
Osher Marin JCC says “laila tov” (good night) with this event for families with children up to 3 years old, and siblings. Make art, sing and read bedtime stories. Pajama-wearing encouraged; snacks and coffee provided. Registration required.
Oshman Family JCC CEO Zack Bodner discusses his book, subtitled “A Manifesto for 21st Century Jewish Peoplehood.” Each ticket includes one book. Proof of vaccination required. Presented by Taube Center for Jewish Peoplehood.
An event that combines engaging with Osher Marin JCC’s shmita art exhibit, learning about the shmita year in Jewish tradition and creating art with guidance from Berkeley-based Jewish Studio Project. No experience required. Registration required.
Celebrate the giving of the Torah with music, crafts and ice cream in the atrium and courtyard.
Opening reception for Rabbi Lawrence Kushner’s new art exhibit, a night of “light, art, and community.” Kushner is the scholar-in-residence at Congregation Emanu-El in S.F. Exhibit runs through Aug. 31. Registration required.
Osher Marin JCC presents a swimming and social event for infants to four year olds. Bring proof of vaccination and a towel.
Cleansing ritual performed by sound practitioner Serena Malkani and mikvah guide Jessica Rosenberg in the JCC’s pool. Followed by Shabbat closing service.
Screening of 40-minute, 2015 documentary about a Jerusalem ballet company that focuses on environmental activism. Plus discussion with director Stacey Menchel Kussell. Presented by Congregation Rodef Sholom and Taube Center for Jewish Peoplehood at Marin JCC. Registration required.
Harvest-themed open house with food, activities, crafts, music and more. Registration is optional.
Screening of 2022 film about Pittsburgh’s powerful community response to hate in the aftermath of 2018 synagogue shooting that killed 11. With a talk by the director. Presented by Osher Marin JCC and Not In Our Town. Registration required.
Rabbi Zac Kamenetz, founder and CEO of Shefa: Jewish Psychedelic Support, discusses the integration of psychedelics into Jewish settings, and how treating intergenerational and personal traumas through psychedelics can shift Jewish narratives. Registration required.
A livestream of the annual Zionism conference from the Oshman Family JCC in Palo Alto. With Israeli food and a debrief discussion. Tickets by donation.
UC Davis Jewish history professor David Biale discusses what the historical sources, both Jewish and Hellenistic, tell us about what really took place during the Maccabean revolt. Livestream option available. Presented by New Lehrhaus. Registration required.
Three-hour meditation retreat, with Diane and Larry Yermack leading attendees through cultivating three different qualities (known in Jewish tradition as middot), to usher in 2023 with more calmness, compassion and joy. Bring lunch. Registration required.
Chochmat HaLev spiritual leader Zvika Krieger explores Osher Marin JCC’s new Archie Rand exhibit of paintings centered on the Amidah by using meditation, visualization, self-reflection and chevrutah (partnership). Sliding scale, in advance.
One-hour event with blessings, coffee, bagels, discussion parenting topics and a gift-filled Shalom baby bag. For parents and kids 2 and under. Presented one Friday a month by Jewish Baby Network, Osher Marin JCC and Rodef Sholom. Registration required.
Chabad of Novato and Osher Marin JCC present a baking and bonding event for kids, who must be accompanied by an adult. Led by experienced bakers. Dairy dinner included. $36 per family, reservation required.
Learn about Jewish culture and traditions and how to mix, knead and braid your own loaf of challah. Kids must be accompanied by an adult. Presented by Osher Marin JCC and Chabad of Novato. RSVP required.
Program of “must-see” films from the 2022 San Francisco Jewish Film Festival kicks off with “Karaoke,” a bittersweet Israeli drama-comedy about a midlife Tel Aviv couple and a sexy bachelor from Miami. Also Feb. 16 “Farewell Mr. Haffmann” and Feb. 23 “The Narrow Bridge.”
Purim party for families with kids 4 and under with music and crafts by PJ Library. Bring costume. Presented by OMJCC’s Camp Kehillah, Early Childhood Education, Family Connections, Brandeis Marin and Becker Charitable Trust.
Purim party for families with kids four and up featuring hamentashchen, mask-making crafts, costume contest, DJ and dance party. Presented by OMJCC’s Camp Kehillah & Early Childhood Center and Brandeis Marin
Rabbi Zac Kamenetz discusses how Jewish mystical teachings deepen individuals' connection to traditions and encounters with expanded consciousness.
Elaine Leeder discusses her work facilitating dialogue between offenders and victims and their families, her experiences with Jewish prisoners and how her Jewish values inform and influence her restorative justice work.
Charoset workshop led by chef Jerusalem-raised Aliza Somekh of Bishulim SF. Learn recipes from Iraq, Poland, Yemen and Jerusalem.
Henry Michalski discusses his book, subtitled “A True WWII Story of Love, Defiance and Hope,” which tells the story of his parents’ survival from Poland to a remote island gulag in Siberia to Kazakhstan and his family’s eventual immigration to the U.S. through Ellis Island.
Israeli trans activist Michael Alroy shares his personal journey as a trans man, from his childhood in South Africa to navigating life in Israel. Michael dispels common myths and stereotypes about gender and sexual orientation, and emphasizes the importance of developing tolerance and recognition of "the other."
Experiential free-form dance journey through the Sacred Sefirot, the Kabbalistic Tree of Life. No previous experience with dance or knowledge about the Sefirot required.
Ex–Marin JCC staffer Joanne Greene reads excerpts from her new book and discusses the accident that drastically changed her life. With wine, cheese, snacks and Q&A. Presenters include Osher Marin JCC and Rodef Sholom. Registration required.
Class on Jewish wisdom and spiritual awareness through meditation. Guided by Congregation Kol Shofar meditation leaders Diane and Larry Yermack. No prior meditation experience needed. Donation requested.
Osher Marin JCC presents a soundscape meditation experience using crystal singing bowls to clear mental and physical blocks, promote relaxation and release tension. Followed by a water ritual in the JCC pool. Performed by sound practitioner Serena Malkani. Bring bathing suit, comfortable clothes, towel, water bottle, journal and pen. Sliding scale.