Today is Israel’s Independence Day. What exactly does that mean? And what can you do?
There’s no better place to start than MJL. Read up on Yom Haatzmaut the way it’s celebrated in Israel and the rest of the world, and check out our new article about whether Yom Haatzmaut should be celebrated — as a religious holiday? or at all?
* Pioneers for a Cure, the Jewish network of artists fighting cancer, are using the occasion to release a new download of Yehoram Gaon singing “Shir Ha’avoda Vehamlacha.” For a $2 donation to the cause, you’ll get yourself some new music.
* Everyone’s favorite Israel-lovin’, reggae-singin’ superstar, Matisyahu, just lost his Israeli keffiyeh while stage-diving in Argentina (thanks to Shemspeed, check out Rolling Stone’s photos of the show) — but he’s freshly re-keffed and back for more.
* There are parties across the U.S. — and Israel’s just one big party as soon as you walk out of the street, so we won’t even discuss that. Everyone from Shemspeed to the Israeli consulate are having parties. There are a zillion blogrolls, but the best way to find some other local folks in your area celebrating freedom, falafel, and Zohan is the trusty old Google.
Of course, that’s not all that’s happening — either in cyberspace or in real life. If you’re doing anything cool for the holiday, let us know in the comments.
