The word Korbon (offering) comes from the word karov (close). When we bring offerings to the temple, it brings us closer to Hashem. The korbonos have many seemingly daunting details; but we can never lose sight of the big picture. The korbonos offer us an intensity of closeness that is otherwise unimaginable as the following tale illustrates:

 

It is said that when G-d created the world, he originally created birds without wings. The birds complained to Hashem saying, "L-rd of the Universe, You have put us at a disadvantage compared to all the other animals. They have powerful muscular legs, enabling them to run fast and far. We have only these scrawny bird legs. The other animal predators can easily pursue us and feast on us. We don't stand a chance." Hashem performed a miracle and gave the birds an amazing gift. He gave them wings.

 

Now the birds really complained, "Ribono shel olam, It was bad enough before when we had to evade our pursuers with our scrawny bird legs. Now You have made things much much worse by giving us these huge clunky things on our sides. Now we can barely waddle, much less run. We will be at the mercy of all the other animals, who will prey on us, catch us and kill us."

 

Hashem explained to the birds, "My dear dear children. These wings are not a burden, nor are they an impediment. You just don't understand how to use them. If you utilize these wings properly, you will be able to soar to the greatest heights. You will achieve that which was thought to be unachievable."

When we look at halacha (Jewish Law) it can seem staggering.

 

Some might even think that the mitzvot are hindering their lives, preventing them from eating, speaking, or doing what they want. The opposite is the case. By understanding and observing the mitzvot of the Torah we will be elevated to levels beyond our comprehension.

Congratulations to TVT's college counselor, teacher, and dedicated coach, Clint Davis, who has recently been awarded a prestigious, fully-funded fellowship by Columbia University's Klingenstein Center for Independent School Leadership.

 

 

On Sunday, March 29th at 4:00 pm Classical Music Encounters of Orange County will host a Concert Fundraiser to benefit the Helen Brown Music Competition.  The Concert Fundraiser includes performances by singers, flutists, and pianists. By popular demand the talented young pianist Michael Oganesyan is a featured performer. Light refreshments (kosher) will be served. Minimum suggested donation $20 (payable to TVT).  For more information and directions, please contact Competition co-chair Inessa Khurgel rozenovich@cox.net.
 
The Helen Brown Music Competition, held annually, is hosted by TVT to encourage excellence in classical music among Jewish students.  This year's Competition will be held Sunday, June 7 at TVT.  Entries are now being accepted.  Contact VAPA Department Chair, Sarah Lougheed slougheed@tarbut.com for an entry form.  Check out this month's issue of OC Jewish Life Magazine for an in-depth article about the history of the Helen Brown Music Competition.

TVT's 4th grade students have been studying whales and dolphins in their science classes. On their whale watching field trip last Friday, they sighted humpback whales! Mr. Mike Seftel, the consummate science teacher, helped the crew identify the whales as Humpbacks, as that species is most likely to breach and frolic. You can clearly see from the photo that the whale is a humpback, which is not common in this area. The OC register published an article about the whale sighting, which although the article doesn't mention TVT specifically, does site the same day and the voyage.

Over 150 parents and faculty celebrated Chawaiian Style on Saturday, March 21st.  The event raised over $11,000 in support of PTSO sponsored student programming.  

 

The PTSO extends a special thank you to all of the Faculty, Staff and Administration who supported the event with their silent auction donations. They would also like to acknowledge Lisa Lobel and Chantelle Labowe for their time, creativity and support.

The Pesach Seder and meal is the most time consuming meal on the Jewish calendar.  Save yourself the work of having to do your Pesach cleaning AND cooking . . .  

Order your seders from Hotz Stuff! !  

Click on the link to see the delicious menu they are offering.