My message this week is all about very important logistics.  Please take a few minutes to read it so that we will be on the same page for the many details you need to know for this week: (1) The Heh Class helps lead Friday evening services at 6:30 p.m. today.  Following the service, they will perform the Heh Cantata, a Summary of Jewish History.  Heh students should arrive promptly, wearing blue and white Shabbat attire. (2) REMINDER: (a) SJS for Gan through Zayin students this Sunday goes from 9:15 a.m.-11:00 a.m; (b) SJS for Prozdor through Confirmation: 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.  (c) DROP OFF AND PICK UP AT AM YISRAEL. (3) On Sunday, May 3rd, please wear either blue and white clothing or Israel themed (Hebrew writing, Israeli army, etc.) shirts to support Israel Solidarity Day. (4) We will be celebrating with the Chicago Jewish Community at Ravinia immediately following SJS.  (5) Highlights at Israel Solidarity Day will include: (a) Rick Recht Concert (best for children 5 and under); (b) Jamman Drum Circle; (c) The Maccabeats; (d) Three Mile or One Mile Walk; (e) Hadag Nahash; (f) Children/Teen Activities; (g) GaGa Tournament.  For more information, please click here.  (6) “SJS‘ ZayinDrive”: “And if your brother becomes poor and is not able to make a living, then you are to help him to survive…” Leviticus 25:35.  Many people today aren’t as fortunate as us, and can’t afford food or clothes. The Zayin Class is proud to say, that in continuation of our B’nai Mitzvah, we are leading end of the SJS year collections.  During the summer months, there is ongoing heavy use of the Ark’s kosher food pantry by the impoverished and needy in the local Jewish community. Since Jewish school contributions do not occur during the summer months, we are conducting an end of the school year drive to help stock the pantry. Individual classes are being assigned to bring especially needed kosher items. Your assistance and generosity in the Am Yisrael School of Jewish Studies food drive will be greatly appreciated.

GAN & VAV: jam (Smucker: strawberry preferred)