e-mail: [email protected] website: http://www.cbi18.org RELIGIOUS SCHOOL CALENDAR & SYNAGOGUE EVENTS LISTED Everybody Loves a Celebration and what a Celebration it is ~

Vol. XIX, No. 5 Yom Ha’atzma’ut! Iyar ~ Sivan Sunday, May 15 ~ 12:30 – 3:00 PM May ~ June 2011 The Festivities Go On and On: Israeli Lunch, Moroccan and Bedouin Foods! Wine Tasting! • Kvod the Magician! Israeli Singing and Dancing! Rock-Climbing just like the rocks at Ein-Gedi! Laying T’fellin! • Write Notes to be sent to the Kotel! Kibbutz Life! • An Archeology Dig! • Raffle prizes! $5/Person, Children 3 years and under Free RSVP to the CBI Office by May 9th

Celebrate Yom Ha’atzma’ut with Rabbi Miri Gold Celebrate Rosh Chodesh Sivan with Sisterhood of Kehilat Birkat Shalom, Kibbutz Gezer, Israel! Thursday, June 2 at 7:30 PM Monday, May 9 at 7:00 PM Ingrid Gallin is speaking: 8:15 PM: Short Minha Service “Growing Up in Shanghai” Dessert and Coffee Immediately Following Service An event not to be missed! Rabbi Gold will present a section of the Israel Declaration of Independence and discuss how it relates to Modern-Day Israel and its challenges of human and civil rights, and religious pluralism. Yom Ha’atzma’ut ~ Shacharit Service CBI Presents~ Artist in Residence Tuesday, May 10 ~ 7:30 AM Please RSVP to the CBI Office Edna Miron-Wapner Sunday, May 15 3:00 – 5:00 PM ‘Twas the Night before Shavuos and all through the Shul, in the Family Life Center everyone was studying and learning – it was so very cool! Come Experience Expressive Kavannah, a Come join Rabbi Spitz and Cantor Tilchin along with other Technique of Expressive Arts community scholars for CBI’s annual Tikkun L’eil Shavuot: Therapy for those drawn to Tuesday, June 7: 8:25 PM – Midnight their Jewish Identity! This workshop relates PLEASE NOTE: to the weekly Tikkun L’eil Shavuot is preceded by Ma’ariv Service at 8:00 PM Parashat of Bahar~ Come explore your Creativity ALSO PLEASE NOTE: within a supportive group! Shavuot Schaharit Services on Wednesday and Thursday, $10/person June 8 and 9 at 9:30 AM RSVP to the CBI Office The Shofar page 1 readings a couple of years ago. What thing we can experience is the fascinated me was both how much mysterious. It is the source of all true Rabbi’s Message the Israelites shared in common with art and science.” Rabbi Elie Spitz their surrounding neighbors- such as On Shavuot, we celebrate the slavery, polygamy, and the sacrificial gift of the Torah and the mystery of form of worship- and even more so, revelation. For our people, the Torah what was unique to the Torah. Only the is a love letter from God. Yes, people Torah, for instance, forbade the eating wrote it, but the wisdom of Torah of blood. The underlying reason was emerged intuitively from our reaching to express that God ultimately controls beyond ourselves and hearing a life. As blood is identified with life, it still, silent voice calling us toward belongs only to God. justice and love. The Torah is our On a stroll with Professor Milgrom, Jewish foundation for growing lives of I asked him, “Why did you spend over meaning, belonging, and fulfillment. I twenty years researching the details read the Torah as a modern person, of the Levitical laws.” aware of the limitations of the past and Shavuot: A celebration of God, “The laws of the Torah,” he the enduring richness of our people’s Torah, and Spiritual Genius. responded, “are vessels for values. spiritual genius. To understand the details of ritual • I am a Conservative Jew because God wrote E=MC2. laws is to uncover the contours and I live with the tension between “Einstein,” you say. content of enduring values. Ideas are tradition and change, like a musical “Yes, him too.” intellectually known, but each time we string pulled in two opposite I once asked my teacher and the perform a ritual we relive, re-express, directions that enables a melodic, editor of the Etz Hayim Bible, “Who and rediscover those values with our stirring note; wrote the Bible?” whole body.” • I am a Conservative Jew because “People,” he replied. The Torah contains many I believe that people can be “And what was the place of God?” distinctive laws and rituals, such as God’s vessels, both in hearing a I persisted. demanding that one day a week we transcendent call and as God’s “God enables genius, whether refrain from work and commerce. The eyes, ears, hands, and feet to effect in Shakespeare, Mozart, or a great value conveyed by Shabbat is that healing in God’s creation; scientist. The Torah is a work of God is in charge and that we need • I am a Conservative Jew because spiritual genius.” to prioritize time to forge relationships I believe that the Torah is God’s My teachers in Rabbinical School with those around us and with God. sacred revelation, but not God’s shared the modern perspective that Our Torah demanded that landowners last word; ideas have a history. They taught were to provide for the poor, pieces • I am a Conservative Jew because that the Torah unfolded over time of social legislation that were radical the Torah challenges and uplifts us- and emerged from specific historical for the ancient world and persist as a and in parts, repels us too- calling us settings. During the exile in Babylonia, challenge of hope making and justice toward humbly honoring the past, they taught, Jews began to weave oral in our own day. When the Torah states, living more wholly in the present, traditions together into a magnificent, “And God spoke to Moses saying” and trusting that we will encounter written tapestry. This description of (the Torah’s most often repeated additional wisdom ahead; the Torah’s origins conflicted with my phrase), it signifies that what follows • I am a Conservative Jew because I childhood teachers who instructed is our people’s best understanding believe that the mitzvot of the Torah me that God had dictated the words to of God’s will and values. require interpretation and form a Moses letter by letter. If people wrote Human understanding is system of values that strengthens the Torah, I was left to wonder, in what continuously unfolding by responding our bonds to the world around us sense is our Torah worth building a to changing conditions and adding and evokes the best in us; life on? new insights. Einstein’s analysis • I am a Conservative Jew because Among my favorite Bible scholars depended on a strong foundation the Torah testifies to an enduring, is Professor Jacob Milgrom. After of scientific learning, and yet his expansive, evolving Awareness, serving as a Conservative Rabbi insights also emerged intuitively. In beckoning us into relationship, “You for twenty years, he taught at the his words, “There is no logical way shall be holy for I the Lord am Holy.” University of California at Berkeley for to the discovery of these elemental May this Shavuot lead us further thirty years. Among his achievements laws. There is only the way of intuition, up the mountain of learning toward was a three-volume work on Leviticus, which is helped by a feeling for the God’s presence and mystery. And later condensed into a more order lying behind the appearance.” may we embrace the Divine gift of accessible 300-page book. I read this His creativity was linked as well to a Torah with curiosity, commitment, and commentary alongside our weekly sense of wonder, “The most beautiful creativity. A page 2 The Shofar can master. I am delighted to share JEWISH WORLD WATCH that I will be offering an introductory Cantor’s Notes class on Torah reading four Sunday WALK TO Cantor Marcia Tilchin mornings this summer – July 10, 17, END GENOCIDE  24 and August 7 at 10:30 AM. Details will be posted in the next issue of the “Shofar” and in upcoming email announcements. If you have ever thought about taking the plunge into the magical world of laining (the art of scriptural chant), please consider embarking on this journey with me. As one becomes adept at laining, the intricacies of biblical Hebrew grammar start to become apparent, prompting questions like: Why are Meet the Old Torah Reader some words accented on the final here are so many ways that syllable while others are not? Why is T Torah touches our lives. Its there a “sh’va” under an opening “vav” wisdom is woven throughout our instead of a “patah”? These are the prayers. It is our guide to ethical living. kinds of details upon which some of It is our pathway to know the many our most famous midrashim are built. faces of God. Torah’s miraculous There are several congregants at CBI essence is revealed week after week who read Torah with this degree of as we study the parshiot and extract sophistication. I encourage those of new insights every time. you at this stage of your learning to Another way to know Torah is go onto the CBI website to read some to recite it. The Jewish people have excellent essays on the finer points been chanting our sacred texts for of Torah reading and grammar from thousands of years and the fact a master of the art known to us only that we render it in the 21st century as “The Old Torah Reader”. [Click on as we did through the millennia “Clergy and Leadership”, then “Cantor is astonishing. I was in my early Tilchin”, then “Torah Corner” and you thirties the first time I read from the will find “The Old Torah Reader”]. Torah. Already in cantorial school, These are beautifully crafted articles I put in hours of practice and had designed to help reduce common my friend Deborah Togut, z”l, listen chanting errors made even by those to me countless times to correct my with experience. grammar and help me perfect my You can write to “The Old musicality. When I actually stood Torah Reader” with questions and up to read on Shabbat, my hand comments that will, if all goes well, was shaking so uncontrollably that lead to new insights and to further I could barely hold the yad (pointer). questions. As we approach Shavuot It was as if my body knew viscerally – zeman matan Torateinu - there is no its proximity to something awesome finer moment to dedicate ourselves and was quaking with joy and fear to becoming novice or more expert at once. Torah readers. No matter where Learning to chant Torah is a skill you are on your journey towards this anyone who is dedicated to the task essential synagogue skill, revelation awaits you. A THE SHOFAR is published bi-monthly by Congregation B’nai Israel, 2111 Bryan Ave., Tustin, CA 92782. Deadline for articles is the 8th of the month. Join the Sunday Editor: Minyan any Sunday Jean Kravitz e-mail: [email protected] at 9:10 am in Call the B’nai Israel In-The-Family Hotline (714) 730-9693 - whenever there’s a major event in your life. the Bet Midrash

The Shofar page 3 Project Genesis visionaries —Andy Bernstein, Mark Cross, Hal Hurwitz, Celebratory Shabbat The President 's Corner Ron Morrison, Michael Schneider, Worship with Joel Kuperberg Bob Sklar, Ralph Stern and Jay Dale Schatz! Witzling--who came together twenty- five years ago to conceptualize, Friday, June 17 design and implement the develop- at 8:00 PM ment of our current home on Bryan Saturday, June 25 Avenue. Our sold out 2011 Gala at 9:45 AM was a spectacular event featuring fine food and drink, schmoozing and in the Family dancing, as we celebrated Project Life Center Genesis and the growth of B’nai Israel. Past CBI president Brigitte Come Join Us! Frankel served masterfully as our Thanksgiving emcee and auctioneer, assisted by When you hear of a lifecycle event Allison Katz, Jonathan Fine, Mike in our CBI community (whether “Silent gratitude isn't much use to Lefkowitz, Dan Schwartz, David simcha, illness or a death), or if you anyone.” - (G. B. Stern) Krebs and Sandy Goodman. This have something which you wish the celebration could not have occurred o, I’m not confusing spring Cantor to be aware of, please notify without the dedication and hard work with autumn, and this is the CBI office. N of our Gala Committee, chaired by Call (714) 730-9693 or not a contemporary riff on Pesach. Beth Elster, Heather Katz, Miriam e-mail [email protected]. Rather, in the afterglow of two in- Ninyo and Johanna Rose, as well credible events at our shul, it seems as Committee members Beth Adler, only natural that we take a moment Helene Coulter, Esther Dosick, to appreciate those who made them Cindy Furst, Michelle Ginsburg, possible. CBI Gift Debbie Hebron, Leslie Kaufman, In March, through the generos- Sandy Klein, Michelle Madick, Maura ity of Joe and Barbara Baim, we Malloy, Francine Morrison, Marla Shop had the privilege of hosting CBI’s Nathan, Melanie Pollack, Shawna first event as part of the Roz Baim Come in and Schwartz, Sandy Stein, and Michael Distinguished Artist series. The browse the shop - we and Natalie Vishny. “Jewish Tenors” concert was an The Jewish Tenors Concert and have great new items! awe-inspiring performance of can- our 2011 Gala were wonderful, torial and operatic pieces by some Gift Shop regular hours memorable events in significant of the greatest hazzans alive today, are during Hebrew School part because of the commitment backed by a pianist and orchestral or by appointment of time, resources and energy accompaniment. In addition to ex- by calling the office by so many of our congregants. pressing our gratitude to Joe and Their efforts are a Barbara for sponsoring the concert, reminder of one of and Rabbi Spitz and Cantor Tilchen the best features for their invaluable assistance, we Leftover of Congregation also acknowledge Sandy Klein, He- B’nai Israel—our lene Coulter and Debbie Hebron, as lay volunteers. Kipot? well as Batia Swed, Muriel Ullman So, when you next and all of our other congregant volun- come in contact Bring them to the teers, who helped with pre-concert w i t h a n y o f Sisterhood gift shop logistics, ticket sales and distribu- these dedicated tion, converting our sanctuary into a where they will be re-created into Works of art members of our concert hall for the evening, and all to either be resold or worn for a lifetime! s h u l , p l e a s e of the other work that allowed us all All proceeds will benefit the gift shop that take the time to to enjoy this wonderful performance. directly supports CBI’s educational program. thank them for It was a musical treat that we will enriching our lives Drop by the gift shop and talk to Sam long remember. and synagogue about designs and ideas. Just a few weeks later, CBI had community. A Let your creativity soar! the opportunity to honor our original page 4 The Shofar Please know that I will cooper- beautiful piece of art, the students ate and assist the congregation in will learn about the long history and Religious School all ways possible for my remaining connection of the Jewish people to Alan Rusonik, weeks at CBI. My goal is to leave textile and the garment industry. Director, Lifelong Learning the program organized and well These projects have been Dan Koblin and Francine Wenhardt, planned out so that all transitions made possible by the Zembrosky VPs will be smooth and seamless. May Art Fund, a fund established at CBI continue to grow from strength the synagogue by Alan and Bev to greater strength. Zembrosky in memory of their son, Zembrosky Art Fund - Last Dan Zembrosky. These exciting new December, the 8th & 9th grade stu- experiences for our program are dents from our Hebrew High had the a way for our students to express opportunity to work with renowned themselves artistically as well as mosaic artist Irina Charny on a large help beautify our synagogue. A mosaic project for the synagogue. On Wednesday, February 23, the completed mosaic was presented regret to inform you that I and hanged in the Family Life Cen- will not be continuing in my I ter. If you have not been upstairs in position at Congregation B’nai Israel the Family Life Center, I encourage at the conclusion of my contract you to visit this special mosaic which expires June 30, 2011. which represents Tikkun Olam or I came to this decision after our responsibility as Jews to re- much deliberation. My departure is pair our broken world. Coming in due entirely to personal issues; it is May, our Hebrew High juniors and not a reflection on the congregation. seniors will be working on the next I valued my brief period of time at project, which will be an art weave CBI and enjoyed getting to know the project. In addition to creating a various members of the community. I have benefitted from working with the clergy, the teachers, and many families. Most of all, I have enjoyed PLEASE NOTE THESE IMPORTANT DATES FOR working with the children of CBI. The MERCAZ LIMMUD AND MERCAZ HADRACHA young people at CBI are truly won- (formerly Religious School and Hebrew High) derful, and it has been my honor and May and June pleasure to get to know them, to visit May their classes, and to share a story or Sunday, May 1 Regular Classes a lesson with them. I will definitely 7th Grade Family Education Program miss the children most of all. Sunday, May 8 No School: Mother’s Day We have made some changes to Sunday, May 15 Regular Classes the school this year that have been Wednesday, May 18 Last Session of Mercaz Hadracha successful and the hope is to continue Sunday, May 22 Regular Classes those changes in the future. Specifi- 7th Grade Field Trip – Museum of Tolerance cally, the curricular changes with re- Sunday, May 29 No School: Memorial Day gard to Hebrew and Tefillah have been Tuesday, May 31 Last Tuesday Session of Mercaz Limmud very successful and will continue. We have been working all year to June develop a scope and sequence to the Wednsday, June 1 Last Wednesday Session of Mercaz Limmud other aspects of the curriculum, and Thursday, June 2 Last Thursday Session of Mercaz Limmud recently developed benchmarks for Friday, June 3 7th Grade Service and Program each grade level. Finally, with regard Sunday, June 5 Regular Classes to Mercaz Hadracha (Hebrew High), 7th Grade Family Education Program we have developed a good formula for Last Day of Mercaz Limmud success and the hope is to maintain Teacher Appreciation the current structure and continue to Wednesday, June 8 Shavuot attract dynamic and exciting teachers 10th Grade Confirmation & 12th Grade Graduation and programs.

The Shofar page 5 USY Experiential Prayer & Membership Moments Text Study Mike Mymon and Seudah Come Learn with Daveen Meyers,VPs Adam Greenwald s you read this article, Sh’lishit A the Membership Committee 10:30 AM continues to prepare for the Israeli and in the Bet Midrash Yom Ha’atzma’ut (Independence Day) celebration at CBI. This year, we are bringing The Magic of Israel to CBI Learning May 7 on Sunday, May 15th, 12:30-3:00 pm on’t miss the last Seudah (immediately following the Mercaz D Sh’lishit of the year with THE BIGGEST Limmud session). Rabbinic Intern Adam Greenwald. QUESTIONS The plans include Israeli food and We will meet on Saturday evening, wine-tasting, a magician, a balloon May 7 at 7:00 PM in the Social Hall. What Really Matters Most? artist, an archeological dig, a rock We will meet to learn together, while climbing wall in Ein-Gedi, a Moroccan sharing a light meal and USY-style What Can Judaism Teach Us? booth with couscous and Henna Havdallah. Asking the Most Important tattoos, a Bedouin tent with a “real” All teens are welcome—come Questions Bedouin serving coffee and sharing share your insights with us! stories of the desert, a “Kotel” where Join us for our final learning you can write a note to G-d (we have THERE IS NO COST session together made arrangements with a Rabbi in TO ATTEND A Israel to transfer the notes to the Kotel in Jerusalem), an informational booth about Israel and its people, singing, dancing and much more. Please call the CBI office to RSVP as we need to plan food accordingly. On Sunday, May 22nd, Membership will oversee the CBI booth at the Israel Expo on the Our grounds of the JCC in Irvine. It is a wonderful opportunity to bring CBI to Gala the larger Jewish community of Orange Honorees County. Please consider attending and if you do, stop by the CBI booth to help greet our guests and visitors. We have heard many times from pro- spective members and guests of CBI that they felt the warmth and friendliness of our members during their visit. The CBI booth at the Israel Expo is an- other opportunity to showcase our syna- gogue, its programs, and its people. A page 6 The Shofar of Israeli-born families and children in our classrooms who visit Israel Child Development each year. Lisa Heller - Director, Certified We ask them: Parent Coach What does Israel look like? What Michael Adler and does it smell like? What does it sound Scott Cross, VPs like? Is it different at the beach in Israel than Newport Beach? Is the desert like Palm Springs? Does Jerusalem or Tel Aviv look like LA or New York? Are the mountains in Israel like Big Bear? Are the fruit and vegetable fields like Tanaka Strawberry Farms? Is there a forest of trees, an orchard of oranges, lemons, avocados or figs? Do they eat bagels, pita bread, hummus or olives? Is McDonalds or Starbucks in Israel? What do their grandparents’ What do we want children homes look like? Do their cousins to think about? speak Hebrew and English? Do they What do we want children go to preschool or camp? Do they ride bikes or scooters? The "Israel" Connection. to learn? Of course, it helps to cook foods n our preschool, learning typical of what their families eat in It isn’t just for big kids anymore! I happens in a supportive, Israel in our classrooms. Our children enriching atmosphere based on love falafel and cucumbers with Join us for LITTLE SHUL the interests of the children. How do yogurt. A program designed to prepare we get them to ask questions and It helps for the children to listen your little one for the “big” shul! learn? How do we teach a concept to the music, dance, and enjoy the For children ages infant thru Pre -K of life in another country to our colors of Israel. They love to bake preschoolers? How do we give them a blue and white birthday cake and Sunday, May 15 and June 5 the sense of love and beauty in the sing Happy Birthday, Yom Huledet 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM small country of Israel, which is the Sameach to Israel. in the Bet Midrash size of New Jersey? We speak and sing to the chil- The teachers set up provocations dren in Hebrew. We look at pictures, $10/Family covers materials and a snack within the classrooms and outdoor books and live videos of Israel on the Contact the CBI Office if interested environments. An authentic item is computer. We build a Kotel out of placed in the environment, a book is shoe boxes, blocks or clay, and visit the birds and special plants for read, music is played, a unique plant the web site, www.kotel.com and see the butterflies. We teach kindness is ready for the children to place in the people davening. The children write and respect, we are truly a Jewish garden, a cooking experience using notes to God and place their private Preschool each and every day. specific food items occurs, all which message in the cracks of their Kotel. That’s how we structure the spark & create opportunities for the There is always a family traveling to environment in our classrooms. children to think and ask questions. Israel that will take their notes to the That’s how the children learn and In order to develop an effective way real Kotel. begin to understand the importance of establishing a meaningful relation- We work hard to stay con- of the state of Israel and the love ship with Israel, a place of pride for nected to Israel all year long. The and strong connection important our homeland, we in the preschool older children Skype or write notes for us as Jews. All of the children each year kick off the Israel con- and draw pictures to families and from ages 8 weeks old to 5 years nection during the celebration of friends in Israel. We plant trees, old have experienced the smells Yom Ha’Atzma’ut! This begins the flowers, seeds and vegetables on and life in Israel without having to year-long experience of Israel at the Tu B’Shevat and with each seasonal take the long trip over there. preschool. change. We have animals inside Come into our classrooms and We go all out! Of course, it our classrooms and in the outdoor outdoor environments and visit helps to have children and adults environment we have feeders for everything in action! A

The Shofar page 7 one-week sessions available to you. Each are filled with a wide variety of My CBI Story Youth News things to keep you busy and engaged. Esther Dosick Barbara Sherman - Youth Director Most of all, Barbs is right there with Annie Shugarman and you, always making sure you drink ndy and I met the first day Marcy Shapiro, VPs water, put on sunscreen, get a hug A of college in September of and have a great day. By the end of 1965. He grew up on Chicago ’s the summer unbreakable bonds will South Side, and I grew up on the be formed, memories etched in your North Side. We dated and married child’s mind and a deep sadness that in 1968. Our older daughter, Mi- camp is over for another year. chelle, was born in 1969, and our Camp is just one part of the younger daughter, Sari, was born hustle and bustle going on at this in 1972. We moved from Chicago time. We are wrapping up the to San Diego to Phoenix , arriving in USY program year, gearing up for Orange County in 1981. Synagogue Regional Convention and electing our membership and active participation next board. June 3, 2011 will be our in the Jewish community was always family dinner and Shabbat Services an you smell the sunscreen yet? important to us. where everyone is invited to come Can you feel the heat? Can you While our girls were students at C help us celebrate our year. Kadima taste the ice cream, can you hear the JSI Day School, Michelle became a and Machar have also had some fun laughter? It is inching closer: the Bat Mitzvah at Beth Emet in Novem- highlights like the outing to the candy intensity, excitement and momentum ber of 1982. We were also Associ- shop, the making of our own music are building! Get out your orange ate Members of CBI. When our girls video and cheering the Angels on to stuff! From hair bands to shoes, started public school, we joined CBI a victory. backpacks to hats, our wardrobes as full members, and I carpooled to There is nothing more fulfilling will soon be orange! Yes...Camp Hebrew School. CBI was a small, than watching our kids experience Bnai Ruach 2011 is fast approaching. close congregation, meeting in two life. And, if the road gets a little This will surely be another memorable storefronts at Packer Square. Andy bumpy we know just how to smooth it summer not to be missed. It is a time worked Bingo on a weekly basis. That out. We experience all of life together, when kids from all around Orange was our big fundraiser! He was also we laugh, we cry, we freeze, we County gather for once-in-a-lifetime a 16-year player on the CBI Sunday sweat, but most of all we care and experiences. This is where friends morning softball team. Our girls were we love. Please join in on the journey are made, connections formed and involved in Hebrew School, Hebrew with us: Get ready for the orange! the lazy days of summer make the High, USY and Camp Ramah. Sari Opening day is July 5, 2011. A child in all of us come out. We go to had her Bat Mitzvah in our B Street major theme parks, swimming, dig in location. At that time, we had two the sand, play Gaga, eat popsicles, Happy Mother's Day of the oldest CBI children. do crafts, sing, and enjoy everything Sunday, May 8, 2011 from the air conditioning to the bus cont. on page 9 rides. This is all under the eyes of a watchful loving staff. Our Counselors BACK BY VERY POPULAR DEMAND!!! are the most loving, experienced and CBI’S Camp B’nai Ruach is now enrolling for summer 2011 talented group that can be found. The safety and happiness of our kids is the Camp Week 1: July 5 – 8 Week 4: July 25 – 29 primary goal. As exhausting as camp B’nai Week 2: July 11 – 15 Week 5: August 1 – 5 is it is the reason your child should be Week 3: July 18 – 22 a part of it. Tremendous effort goes Ruach For Campers entering grades K – 6; into making each camper’s day the 2011 Couselors-in-Training (CIT’s): Grades 7 – 8; best it can be. It is much easier to take Jr. Counselors: Entering Grade 9 on a new challenge like swimming, Enrollment by the week to accommodate all schedules! a roller coaster or a bus ride when Director: Barbara Sherman; Assistant Director: Molly Shapiro you are in the arms of your favorite Disneyland, Wild Rivers, Skating, Gaga, Art, Cooking…all with friends and mentors… counselor. Counselors thrive and What could be better? adore camp as much as the kids do. Interested? Call the CBI Youth Department or check us out Camp Bnai Ruach is an experience, on our new youth department website: http://www.cbiyouthdpt.com not just a place to go. We have 5 page 8 The Shofar the cave. Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai's my story, cont. from page 8 students would visit him, disguising It 's all about Ritual themselves as hunters equipped I have been involved in Women’s with bows and arrows in order to League (Sisterhood) with an em- Phyllis Abrams and phasis on Torah Fund as well as a Bonnie Widerman, VPs trick the Romans. This is one reason why children traditionally play with member of the Gala Committee. Our Lag Ba’Omer bows and arrows on Lag Ba'Omer. daughter, Sari and our two oldest Written by Terry Ginsburg Another explanation is that the bow, grandchildren, Harper (age 13) and which shares the same Hebrew Greyson (age 11) live in Scottsdale, his year on May 22, 2011 word as “rainbow,” is a symbol of the Arizona. Our daughter, Michelle, T (18th of Iyar), the Jewish rainbow, and that Rabbi Shimon bar who is married to Terry Ginsburg, community will celebrate the minor Yochai's merit was so great that no along with their triplets, Jordana, festival of Lag Ba'Omer. The festival rainbows ever appeared during his Lila and Max (age 10), returned to falls on the 33rd day of the sefirah ha- lifetime. While living in the cave, Rabbi Southern California several years omer (“the counting of the omer”), a Shimon bar Yochai wrote the Zohar ago. Our grandchildren “gradu- seven-week period commencing on (The book was eventually published ated” from CBI Child Development the 2nd day of Passover and lasting in 1290 by Rabbi Moshe de Leon in Center – and their entire family has until Shavuot. For traditional Jews, the Spain). Acdording to Rabbi Moshe continued our family’s commitment sefirah days are considered to be a Chaim Luzatto: “After the 17 years through Sisterhood and Board par- semi-mourning period during which he spent in the cave, the Gates of ticipation, Ritual Vice-Presidency, no joyous celebrations are to take Wisdom were opened for him, in Minyan leadership as well as Camp place, such as weddings. However, order to provide light for all Israel, B’nai Ruach and now USY – third on Lag Ba'Omer--the numerical value until the end of time”(Adir Bamarom). generation!!! Almost three years of the Hebrew word “lag” being Before he died, he told his followers ago we sold our home in Orange, 33-- the customs of mourning are to celebrate rather than mourn his and we bought a home together with suspended and weddings and other death. the Ginsburg Family, only a couple joyous occasions are permitted. To this day, hundreds of of miles from CBI! The precise origins of the thousands of Jews gather on Mount Our family has been a part of festival are unclear; however, our Meron on Lag Ba'Omer to honor the CBI for about 28 years, making tradition provides several interesting memory of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai lifelong friends and treasuring our explanations as to the importance by joining in the hillula de Rabbi “home away from home”. We feel of this day. One explanation is that Shimon bar Yochai. This celebration very lucky to be part of such a lov- on the 18th of Iyar, manna began is punctuated by lighting bonfires ing, supportive community during to fall from heaven, thus providing and singing and dancing near the the simchas and the sadness that sustenance to the Children of Israel tomb of this great sage. To appreciate life brings. The shul has continued during their wanderings in the desert. the sheer spectacle of this joyous to play an important role in the According to the Talmud, this was event, one need only go to YouTube lives of all three generations . . . A also the day on which a mysterious and type in the words, “Lag Ba-Omer.” plague, which killed 25,000 of Rabbi Jews in the diaspora observe this DRUM ROLL PLEASE!!! Akiva's students, came to an abrupt special day by picnics, weddings, end. More importantly, for Jews in parties and getting haircuts. INTRODUCING THE YOUTH Israel, this is the day to celebrate the Although most American Jews DEPARTMENT’S NEW WEBSITE: yarzheit of the famous 2nd century do not typically celebrate this festival http://www.cbiyouthdpt.com kabbalist, Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, with the same intensity and gaiety Get the Latest and Greatest News who is believed to be the author of as do our fellow Jews in Israel, it the fundamental kabbalistic text, the on all that’s happening still holds a special place for us not with CBI’s youth! Sefer Ha Zohar (Book of Splendor). only in the flow of religious life that is In the wake of the Bar Kochba determined by the Jewish calendar, revolt against the Roman authorities but also in our shared tradition, Don’t Miss in Palestine, Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai extending back for centuries to the and his son, Elazar, hid themselves distant past. A Men’s Club! in a cave in the mountains for 17 We will be meeting on: years. During that time they were able to sustain themselves by eating Happy Father's Day Sunday, May 15 from a carob tree and drinking from Sunday, & June 12 a fresh-water spring, both of which June 19, 2011 Come Join Us! miraculously appeared at the mouth of

The Shofar page 9 Touch the life of a child... Der Yidishe Vinkle Comfort Club Yiddish Carl Bendroff Committee

y baleepteh (beloved) We want to be M readers, last time I wrote there for you. that Coach Klowski was farmisht (confused) because he getrackht If you or a CBI friend have experienced (thought) I’d choose the Jocks for my a recent loss, are preparing for surgery, basketball team. Ober (but) I didn’t are homebound, recovering from an choose eyner (any) of those voiler illness, or expecting a baby, we seek ...Give Blood yung (rough necks). And they sure to offer care. Please contact our office were baroykt (relieved). (714) 730-9693 or the Cantor and our After every schiler (student) was comfort committee will contact you. Be a Hero! chosen, they gathered around their Our comfort committee is expanding. Participate in the CBI captains. Please consider letting us know if you My team looked like a gang of Blood Drive would like to participate. geeks. Yederer (everyone) was Monday, June 6 hoyt un beyner (skin and bones), 1:00 – 7:00 PM veis vi kalech (pale as a sheet), and CBI Social Hall tsiterndik (trembling). TIRED OF COMBING THROUGH The other teams’ players looked STORES THAT HAVE ONLY Sign up at www.givelife.org like super heroes. But my team had A SCANT COLLECTION and use sponsor code: bnai our school’s one and only Shpin OF JEWISH CARDS? OR Mahn (Spider Man). His alias was Contact Marla Nathan for an Stan Liebowitz. and he was on heavy Look No More! appointment medication to combat his fear of Sisterhood Torah Fund gift cards shpinnen (spiders). “Vos hostu gemakht (What are available for purchase~ have you done)?” Stan asked, “We Birth of a baby, Yiddish Club won’t just lose; we’ll be pounced Special occasion, on and pulverized.” Then he spritzt Thank you, is Back! (squirted) the basketball net with bug Condolences… repellant. “It looks like a shpinveb And much more! Meet with us on: (spider web),” he said. Sunday, I stared into my teammates’ briln $4/each or 6 for $20! May 1, 15, & 29; (glasses) and saw my confident Checks made payable to reflection. “Zorgaykh nisht (stop CBI Sisterhood. and worrying),” I said. “I just figured out Sunday, the trick to win. And it’s always been Contact the CBI office if interested. right up here.” I tapped my temple. June 12 & 26 Next time: Will Carl’s teammates 10:30 AM catch his confidence? Until then, zei gezunt (be well)! A Celebrate your wedding Family Life Center Next two anniversary at Shabbat 8:00 PM Friday services. The second Fri- Shabbat Night Services day of the month we will Greeters May 20 give a special honor to those Wanted and celebrating an anniversary June 17 "All Call" for at the 6:00 PM service. Shabbat Greeters. with Contact Joyce Walter, Dale Schatz We hope to see you there. through the CBI office. page 10 The Shofar Sisterhood Says... Social Action Michelle Ginsburg & Joyce Walter & Judith Lipshutz, Roberta Abramson VPs n Monday, April 4, Sisterhood's ngoing we have our Sunday O Rosh Chodesh program O Suppers which are the 2nd celebrated the month of Nisan. In Sunday of every month at St. Paul’s addition to the required talking and Episcopal Church. We would like to thank all those who have eating and shmoozing, we regaled Left to right: Cheryl Mahru, Shoshanah participated and to welcome all each other with favorite moments Montgomery, Marcia Margolis, of Seders past--from the sweet to Jan Shultz (in profile). who are looking forward to working the silly. at this meaningful experience. We We exchanged recipes for are in need of PAPER GOODS, Pesach, spread out the on table (if SMALL GROCERIES, (can of tuna, you use the picture(s)). And then soups, pasta, cereals) AND,OF COURSE, CASH DONATIONS to we listened to our member, Rebeca help pay for the cost of the suppers. Gilad, as she made us part of her There is a carton near the office activities in a war-torn El Salvador, for your convenience to place your and of the efforts of many to contain donations. the spread of the then still-new Please call the CBI office if you deadly disease HIV/AIDS. And we Left to right standing: Sandy Goodman, have any questions or would like to were thrilled to learn that women Jan Shultz, Leah Pariser; volunteer. guerrilla leaders and high-ranking seated: Rosalie Wattenberg and Thank you! A army officers later sat together as Shirley Shlachter. Congresswomen in a more stable and happier El Salvador. Rebeca CANS? BOTTLES? answered many questions and Leave them for USY! enthusiastically added interesting anecdotes to her already fascinating We’ll take your cans and plastic account. Yes, a good time was had water or soda bottles and recycle by all! them! Just leave them in the marked And please mark your calendar containers left in the Social Hall, – Thursday, June 2, is Rosh Chodesh Courtyard and USY Lounge! Sivan, and at this Rosh Chodesh Left to right: Ahuva Ho, Bonnie Kirsch, event, Ingrid Gallin will speak about (my empty chair), Susan Hodes, Check out our new web growing up in Shanghai. Hope to see Rebeca Gilad (speaking), page: www.cbi18.org you there! A (Irma Minsky in profile).

May Perek Yomi readings June Perek Yomi readings ZECHARIAH PSALMS PSALMS PSALMS PSALMS PSALMS May Chapter May Chapter May Chapter June Chapter June Chapter June Chapter 1 13 10 5 21 16 1 27 11 37 21 47 2 44 11 6 22 17 2 28 12 38 22 48 MALACHI 12 7 23 18 3 29 13 39 23 49 24 19 3 1 13 8 4 30 14 40 24 50 4 2 14 9 25 20 5 31 15 41 25 51 5 3 15 10 26 21 6 32 16 42 26 52 PSALMS 16 11 27 22 7 33 17 43 27 53 6 1 17 12 28 23 7 2 18 13 29 24 8 34 18 44 28 54 8 3 19 14 30 25 9 35 19 45 29 55 9 4 20 15 31 26 10 36 20 46 30 56

The Shofar page 11 HAPPENINGS AND POINTS OF INTEREST @ CBI CONTINUE TO LEARN ON SHABBAT MORNINGS: Parashat people to prepare, serve and clean up dinner for needy individuals Hashavuah~Study the week’s Torah portion from 8:30 AM – and families at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 1221 Wass St., Tustin. 9:20 AM every Saturday before services. Then join us for How Two hour time slots available. RSVP to CBI office by May 5 and/or to Read Hebrew Scripture with a Modern Lens after services June 9, respectively. from 1:15 PM – 2:15 PM in the Bet Midrash. Come join us! COME CELEBRATE YOM HA’ATZMAUT WITH RABBI MIRI GOLD: DON’T FORGET SUNDAY MORNING MINYAN: 9:10 AM – Monday, May 9 at 7:00 PM: Short Mincha Service at 8:15 PM: 10:00 AM in the Bet Midrash. Followed by celebratory dessert and coffee. No charge to attend; please RSVP to the CBI Office by Monday morning, May 9. ISRAELI DANCING AT CBI: Israeli dancing continues on every Tuesday, 6:30 – 9:00 PM for all levels. We will meet in the Social SHACHARIT SERVICE Tuesday, May 10 at 7:30 AM: Begin your Hall~ wear comfortable shoes! Children 7 – 12 years old must be celebration of Yom Ha’atzmaut with a beautiful worship experience! accompanied by a dancing parent. Cost is free. IT’S A WRAP! CELEBRATION OF A SUCCESSFUL YEAR; TGI SISTERHOOD’S ONGOING MAH JONGG is every Wednesday SHABBAT; Wednesday, May 11 at 7:00 PM: Whether a host or a night at 7:00 PM. A $5 donation is optional and payable to Sisterhood. guest, come share your stories and give us your feedback about the Please bring your own mah jongg set. RSVP to the CBI office so we inaugural year of TGI Shabbat! Those interested in more information know how many to set up for. or participating next year are also welcome to join us! RSVP to the CBI office. YIDDISH CLUB WILL MEET Sunday May 1, 15, 29 and June 12, 26: 10:30 AM in the Family Life Center. Come join us for learning SISTERHOOD’S BOOK CLUB: Thursday, May 12 at 7:30 PM. We and laughter! are discussing.The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, by Rebecca Skloot. Book club for June: Thursday, June 23 at 7:30 PM: Even FAMILY SHABBAT SERVICE AND DINNER: Friday, May 6 and Silence Has an End by Ingrid Betancourt. Come and lend your June 3 at 5:30 PM. For families with children ages 10 and under. insights to our discussion! FYI: MEN ARE INVITED TO JOIN Services begin at 5:30 PM and are immediately followed by dinner. BOOKCLUB, TOO! RSVP to CBI by Wednesday, May 4 for the May 6 dinner and MEN’S CLUB WILL MEET Sunday, May 15 and June 12 at Wednesday, June 1 for the June 3 dinner. $10 per member/$15 per 10:00 AM. Come join us! non-member, 12 years of age and over; $5 per child member/$7 per child non-member 2-11 years old. Children under 2 are free. Come IT’S LITTLE SHUL: Sunday, May 15 and June 5 from 11:30 am join us in prayer, song, and stories led by Cantor Tilchin! – 12:30 PM in the Social Hall: Bring your little ones, ages birth thru Pre-K for a fun, hands-on learning experience! Together we explore NESHAMA (SOUL) MINYAN: Saturday, May 7 at 9:30–10:35 AM: A the holidays of the Jewish calendar, getting your little one ready for special morning service featuring K’vod Wieder leading the congregation his/her future attendance in “big shul.” $10/family covers materials and in a high energy traditional service with Carlebach Hassidic, old a snack. Contact the CBI office if you are interested. and new melodies interspersed with reflections on entering prayer. Continuation thereafter of Torah and Musaf services followed by COME EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF ISRAEL~ A YOM HA’ATZMAUT Kiddush luncheon. CELEBRATION: Sunday, May 15, 12:30 – 3:00 PM: Come join us for an incredible, magical experience! Details on the front cover of this EXPERIENTIAL PRAYER AND TEXT STUDY WITH ADAM edition. RSVP to CBI office by Monday, May 9. GREENWALD: Saturday morning, May 7 at 10:30 AM: “The Biggest Questions”: What really matters most? What can Judaism teach ARTIST IN RESIDENCE: EDNA MIRON-WAPNER: Sunday, May us asking the most important questions? Come join us for our final 15, 3:00 – 5:00 PM: This workshop will focus on the week’s Torah learning session together! We will meet in the Bet Midrash! portion, Bahar, using multiple combined modalities of Expressive Arts Therapy. Come explore your creativity in new and marvelous ways! TEEN SEUDAH SH’LISHIT AND LEARNING WITH RABBINIC $10/Person (materials included) RSVP by Monday, May 9 to the CBI INTERN, ADAM GREENWALD: Saturday, May 7 at 7:00 PM in the Office. Social Hall . This amazing evening of discussion is free. A light meal is provided and followed by a USY-style Havdalah. Share with us your ADDITIONAL MUSICAL SHABBAT SERVICE: The third Friday of pearls of wisdom; give us your perspective that only a teenager can every month at 8:00 PM: May 20 and June 17: Come join Cantor have. Let us learn from you! Tilchin, Carl Cedar, and friends as they celebrate an additional Kabbalat Shabbat and Ma’ariv Service the third Friday of every month! A dessert SUNDAY SUPPER, AN INTERFAITH EFFORT (and perfect Mitzvah Oneg follows the service. The June 17 Service will be celebrated Project too!): Sunday, May 8 and June 12 at 4:00 PM. We will need with Dale Schatz. page 12 The Shofar HAPPENINGS AND POINTS OF INTEREST @ CBI, cont. BLOOD DRIVE AT CBI: Monday, June 6 from 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM in Guess who’s becoming a Bar Mitzvah? the Social Hall. You may sign up at www.givelife.org and use sponsor code bnai or contact Marla Nathan for an appointment. It’s easy to be a hero! Avi Spitzer-Tilchin CELEBRATE ROSH CHODESH SIVAN WITH SISTERHOOD: Thursday, June 7 at 7:30 PM. Come here our speaker, Ingrid Gallin Sunday, July 3, 2011 speak on the topic of: "Growing up in Shanghai". An event not to be 9:30 AM missed! Rosh Hodesh Tammuz SHAVUOT SERVICES June 7, 8, and 9: See front cover of this edition for details. Services and Celebration to Follow THE HIKING GROUP IS HIKING PETER’S CANYON (BACK Come one, Come All! ENTRANCE): Sunday, June 26 at 8:30 AM. This is approximately two hours in duration. There are two trails: a beginner trail and a Help make this simcha even more inclusive. moderate trail. The moderate trail is about four miles and a 500 ft. elevation gain. There is no noticeable elevation gain for the beginner Remember your last Simcha? trail. Please come 10 minutes early to allow for parking and to stretch You prayed, you danced, you ate and ate and ate. your muscles. Address: 26981 Peters Canyon Rd., Tustin, 29782. Now you can donate…those kippot! Please note: the occurrence of rain would cancel this hike. Further Bring your extra kippot and head-coverings from details provided in the flyers in the synagogue kiosks. your special milestone event. A MORNING OF CELEBRATORY SHABBAT WORSHIP WITH DALE SCHATZ: Saturday, June 25 at 9:45 AM in the Family Life Center. Cantor Tilchin will re-make your lovely Come join us! extra kippot and head covering into ones SAVE THE DATE! for Avi’s Bar Mitzvah! Avi Spitzer-Tilchin’s Bar Mitzvah is Sunday, July 3, 2011; Rosh Hodesh Tammuz. Please mark your calendar to be at services for this Please deliver to CBI office by June 15 simcha that will be shared with the entire CBI community! RSVP to: [email protected] Cantor Tilchin will be conducting introductory Torah reading classes: TODAH RABAH! July 10, 17, 24, and August 7. Mark your calendar!

IT’S A WRAP! TGI… Support Your Fellow Shabbat! Come celebrate the is here. Congregants in Need conclusion of by Donating to the CBI

TGI Shabbat Kick-Off Dinner & Orientation Membership Support Fund (exclusively for HOST families) For Our Inaugural Year, 5771! th Wednesday Nov 10 6:30 – 8:30 pm Hard Economic times have made it Social Hall difficult for many congregants to RSVPs required by Nov 5th to Wednesday, [email protected] 11or 714/730-9693 pay for membership. Our Membership 7:00 PM Support Fund helps with that. TO BE A HOST OR GUEST, call Johanna Rose CBI Social Hall Donations can be made by contacting the Shabbat Workshop for ALL th CBI Office. Share your feedback and Sundayyour new Nov 14ideas!10 am – noon Family Life Center For past guests and hostsLearn and how to:those interested in participating nextTeach yearTorah at the Table with Rabbi Spitz  Rejoice in the Shabbat songs with Cantor Tilchin  Bake the world’s best Challah with AaronLife Miller Cycle Events in the Shofar - All are welcome! engagements, weddings, births RSVP to the CBI Office e-mail the details to [email protected]

The Shofar page 13

In the B’nai Israel Family . . . Bar Mitzvah of Adam Jacobs May 28, 2011 (24 Iyar) Adam attends Tarbut v’ Torah day school. His after school activities include piano, volleyball, and football. During the summer, Adam enjoys kayaking at Newport Sea Base and playing golf at Tustin Ranch Golf Club. His mitzvah project included cooking for and serving those less fortunate, and in turn Adam learned a few cooking skills. Last year, Adam took part in an Academic Research Conference on the life of Albert Einstein. Adam loves showing off his Rubik’s Cube skills, he can solve one in under 2 minutes. Adam looks forward to welcoming his family from near and far to celebrate his simcha. Mazal Tov! A

Bat Mitzvah of Alyssa Fine June 11, 2011 (9 Sivan) Alyssa Fine is a 7th grade student and her favorite subjects are Math and Social Studies. Alyssa enjoys working out at the gym, painting, and babysitting. Alyssa enjoys spending time with her friends and grandparents, traveling and music. For her mitzvah project, Alyssa participated with CBI volunteers at ‘Sunday Supper’ that was held monthly at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, where the team prepared and served dinner to homeless and needy people. Alyssa is an active participant in USY and she looks forward to continuing with Hebrew High at CBI next year. Alyssa looks forward to celebrating her Bat Mitzvah with her many friends and family from all parts of the country. Alyssa’s parents, Jonathan & Cynthia, and her brother Brandon, are excited about sharing this simcha with their CBI Family. The celebration will continue when Alyssa and her family will join their international family in late-June for a reunion and vacation in Israel. Mazal Tov! A

Bar Mitzvah of Tyler Berman June 18, 2011 (16 Sivan) Tyler Berman will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah at CBI on June 18, 2011. He is a 7th grader at Tarbut V’Torah, where he enjoys taking art classes and Yoga. Tyler’s creativity has enabled him to develop art works that have been displayed on the school campus. Outside of school, Tyler has been taking clarinet lessons for three years. He also loves going to theme parks (Disneyland, Sea World), and traveling on cruises with his family. For his Mitzvah Project, once a week during the entire school year, Tyler has been helping younger students after school in the Newspaper Club. There, he uses his experience from several years of writing for the TVT newspaper to help kids learn how to research topics, organize their thoughts, and write articles. During his free time, Tyler enjoys playing video games and building Lego models. He is excited about his Bar Mitzvah, and is looking forward to celebrating with many relatives and friends. Mazel Tov! A

Bar Mitzvah of Alex Troy June 25, 2011 (23 Sivan) Alex is an 7th grader at Don Juan Avila Middle School where he is on the Honor Roll and has received many academic and sports awards including Student of the Month and the Principal’s Award. Alex’s favorite sports are soccer, basketball, skiing and fishing. He also enjoys traveling, drawing and playing the trumpet, and is an active member of the Orange County Boys Scouts of America. Alex also loves his exciting family trips that have given him so many lasting memories. For his Mitzvah Project, Alex volunteered on weekends at Heritage Pointe for Jewish assisted living in Mission Viejo and worked with the physically challenged in the Rancho Niguel Little League Challenger Division. At Heritage Pointe he played board games with an elderly woman who looked forward to his companionship. In the Challenger Name: Alexander Justin Troy Division,Date of Bar Mitzvah: AlexJune 25 , attended2011 practices and helped many of the team members learn the basic skills of baseball. He has Grade in September: 8th Grade reallySchool: Don made Juan Avila Middle a difference School in the lives of those he has helped! Alex also donated airline miles to help military families in Interests/Activities: Alex’s favorite sports are soccer, basketball, skiing and Projectfishing. He also Hero. enjoys traveling, Alex drawing is and excited playing the trumpet to, andlead is an the Shacharit and Torah services and he is confident that his late grandmothers, active member of the Orange County Boys Scouts of America. Alex has made MarianHonor Roll in middle Troy school andand received Sonia many academic Koff, and willsports beawards celebrating his Bar Mitzvah in spirit along with his parents, Jeffrey and Laurie Troy, including Student of the Month and the Principal’s Award. He loves his exciting grandfathersfamily trips that have given him Paulso many Troy lasting memories. and Bernard Koff, brother Jordan as well as aunts, uncles, cousins and friends from the west Mitzvah Projects: Alex volunteered on weekends at Heritage PointeA for Jewish andassisted livingeast in Mission coasts. Viejo and worked Mazal with the Tov!physically challenged in the Rancho Niguel Little League Challenger Division. At Heritage Pointe he played board games with an elderly woman who looked forward to his companionship. pageIn the Challenger 14 Division, Alex attended practices and helped many of the team The Shofar members learn the basic skills of baseball. He really made a difference in the lives of those he has helped. Alex also donated airline miles to help military families in Project Hero. Name of Parents: Jeffrey and Laurie Troy Name of Sibling: Jordan Troy Name of Grandparents: Paul Troy and Bernard Koff Other information: Alex is excited to lead the Shacharit and Torah services and he is confident that his late grandmothers, Marian Troy and Sonia Koff, will be celebrating his Bar Mitzvah in spirit along with his parents, grandfathers, brother, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends from the west and east coasts. Todah Rabah Todah Rabah to Sunflour Bakery for donating the delicious hamantashen for our Mishloach Manot baskets!

Todah Rabah and Mazal Tov to Adam Greenwald. Mazal Todah Rabah to Sam Zicarelli for sharing her leadership Tov on your upcoming Rabbinical ordination on May 16 and talent by undertaking the community activist art project and Todah Rabah for the rich legacy of learning and for the OC Jewish World Watch walk. Dozens of people community you have given to your CBI family! participated in this project thanks to your skillful guidance and encouragement! Todah Rabah and Mazal Tov to Courtney Widerman, Sheridan Schwartz, Aria Gittelson, and Caroline Kravitz Todah Rabah to Donna Rafael and Emily Soto for baking for raising hundreds of dollars for Jewish World Watch! dozens of bake sale items that were also used to raise much The proceeds from the sales of your handmade bracelets needed funds at the OC Jewish World Watch Walk! will go to a program to benefit women in the Congo.

SUPPORT CBI with Amazon.com purchases

If you are planning to purchase from Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble, you can help CBI raise funds by making the purchase through either of those Icon Links located at the bottom of the first page of our Web Site (http://www.cbi18.org/). Just click and it will take you straight to Amazon or Barnes & Noble and CBI will get 5% of all purchases made. It’s that easy! You need to do nothing else but click the link on our web page.

The Shofar page 15 Kiddushes Mazal Tov and Todah Rabbah to the following families for co-sponsoring CBI Kiddushes: Roz Rue in honor of her birthday The Szekel family in honor of Daniel’s birthday Roz Rue in honor of Justin’s birthday Susan Hodes in honor of Rosalie Wattenberg’s birthday Roz Rue in honor of Robin’s birthday Susan Hodes in honor of Ann and Carl Bendroff’s anniversary The “5th” Row in honor of Mike Mymon’s birthday Susan Hodes in honor of Elena Bendroff’s birthday Shoshanah Montgomery in honor of Mike Mymon’s 50th birthday Ruth Abers in honor of her birthday Alan and Beverly Zembrosky in honor of their anniversary Pam Kauss and Jim Pasino in honor of Jeremy’s birthday Seymour Lampert in honor of his birthday Julian Feldman in honor of Marilyn’s 80th birthday Howard and Ingrid Rosenthal in honor of Keren’s birthday Joyce Walter in honor of David’s birthday Mimi Goldstein in honor of Larry Wayne’s birthday The Kravitz/Stein family in honor of Rose Kravitz’s birthday Ahuva Ho in honor of Winston’s birthday Anvar and Janet Alfi in honor of Oren’s birthday The Kuperberg family in honor of Joel’s birthday Edita Szekely in honor of her birthday David Zimerman in honor of Gabrielle’s birthday Jaleh and Djamshid Farivar in honor of Shabnam’s birthday Djamshid and Sirus Farivar in memory of their father Dr. Moosa Farivar Audrey Comings in honor of Bruce’s birthday Daniel and Phyllis Horwitz in honor of their anniversary Sharon and Mark Berman in honor of Harry’s birthday Neddy and Seymour Vigman in honor of Neddy’s birthday Sharon and Mark Berman in honor of Jordan’s birthday Rosalie Wattenberg in honor of David’s birthday Sharon and Mark Berman in honor of Tyler’s birthday Rosalie Wattenberg in honor of her birthday The Berman family in honor of Mark’s birthday The Cane, Carmell and Kimeldorf families in honor of Shoshana and Arnie’s Ahuva Ho in honor of her birthday anniversary Howard, Hannah and Keren Rosenthal in honor of Ingrid’s birthday The Michaels family in honor of Zachary’s birthday Lydia Levin, Joel, Rebecca and Jeremy Kuperberg in honor of Ben’s Bruce Comings in honor of Audrey’s birthday birthday Deborah Gavello in honor of her parents, Freddie and Fanny Johnson’s 50th Lydia Levin, Joel, Ben and Jeremy Kuperberg in honor of Rebecca’s anniversary birthday Fred and Fanny Johnson in honor of their 50th anniversary Blossom Siegel in honor of her birthday Nonna and Seth Snyder in honor of their anniversary Anita Woodcoff in honor of Harry’s birthday Andy and Esther Dosick in honor of Esther’s birthday Susan Hodes in honor of Ruth Abers birthday Sandy and John Goodman in honor of their anniversary Susan Hodes in honor of Pearl Gerber’s birthday Jeffrey and Hannah Wachs in honor of their anniversary Holly and Ryan Gaglio in honor of the birth of their son, Abraham Debbie Moysychyn in honor of her birthday Bonnie Solomon in honor of Matthew and Eric’s birthday Sharon and Doron Refael in honor of their anniversary Bonnie Solomon in honor of her birthday The Szekel family in honor of Pat’s birthday Al Steinberg in honor of Phyllis's birthday The Szekel family in honor of Michele’s birthday

Schedule of Services for June Friday, June 3 Torah: Exodus 19:1 – 20:26 Friday, June 17 Rosh Hodesh Sivan Maftir: Numbers 28:26 – 31 6:00 PM Service Torah: Num. 28:1 - 15 Haftarah: Ezekiel 1:1 – 28:3:12 8:00 PM Service with Dale Schatz 5:30 PM Family Service and Dinner Saturday, June 18 6:00 PM Service Thursday, June 9 Bar Mitzvah of Tyler Berman Saturday, June 4 Shavuot/Yizkor 9:30 AM Service 9:30 AM Service 9:30 AM Service PARASHAT: SHELAH-LEKHA PARASHAT: NASO Torah: Deuteronomy15:19 – 16:17 Torah: Numbers 13:1 – 14:7 Torah: Numbers 4: 21 – 5:10 Maftir: Numbers 28:26 – 31 Haftarah: Joshua 2:1 - 24 Haftarah: Judges 13:2 – 25 Haftarah Habakuk 3:1 – 3:19 Friday, June 24 Tuesday, June 7 Friday, June 10 6:00 PM Service Erev Shavuot 6:00 PM Anniversary Service Saturday, June 25 8:00 PM Ma’ariv Service Saturday, June 11 Bar Mitzvah of Alex Troy Bat Mitzvah of Alyssa Fine Birkat Hahodesh Wednesday, June 8 9:30 AM Service 9:30 AM Service Shavuot PARASHAT: B’HA’ALOTEKHA PARASHAT: KORAH 9:30 AM Service Torah: Numbers 8:1 – 9:14 Torah: Numbers 16: 1 – 17:15 Haftarah: Zekhariah:2:14 – 4:7 Haftarah: 1 Samuel 11:14 – 12:22 page 16 The Shofar Congregation B 'nai Israel gratefully acknowledges the following donations ~ May/June 2011 GENERAL FUND Lydia Levin IN HONOR OF - The Szekel Family The Bat Mitzvah of Rachel Jaffe IN MEMORY OF - Donna and Ira Spector Harry Paskil, Father of David Paskil Happy Birthday to Rosalie Wattenberg - Ingrid and Joel Gallin - Ingrid and Joel Gallin - Ed and Fredda Sussman Our heartfelt thanks to Joseph and Barbara Baim for - Mike and Lena Sussman providing the wonderful musical evening - Flori and Mike Rosenthal - Ingrid and Joel Gallin - Neila and Andy Bernstein Happy Birthday to Larry Wayne - Julian and Marilyn Feldman - Ingrid and Joel Gallin - Carole Miller - Carol and Merv Goldstein Emanuel Yeskel, father of John Yeskel - Ruth Abers - Susan and Phillip Blen - Phyllis Abrams and Steve Littman - Francine and Ron Morrison Caroline Cohn, glad to hear the good news - Mindy Lauerlevin, Ed, Courtney, Justin and Mariah Levin - Ingrid and Joel Gallin - Jonathan and Lisa Heller Leah and Jack Pariser for their lovely Shabbat Dinner and Gabriel Senor, father of Flori Rosenthal evening - Ingrid and Joel Gallin - Ruth Ettinger and Sheila Siegel - Mike Rosenthal Arie Katz and his work with CSP - Cindy and Michael Furst - Marsha and Bob Sklar - Mark and Sue Ann Cross Thank you to all my friends at CBI Joseph “Milton” Cedar, father of Carl Cedar - Edythe Zwickler - Ingrid and Joel Gallin Isabel Shapiro becoming a Bat Mitzvah - Sarah and Matt Brenner - Stuart Sherr - Asher and Arlene Tilchin - Arlene and Asher Tilchin - Mark and Sharon Berman The Migrom’s multi generational simcha - Mindy Lauerlevin and Ed Levin - The Ginsburg Family - Sylvia and Sol Vidor - Rita and Sandy Kaplan - Ruth Abers - Sherri and Paul Cunningham - Jonathan and Lisa Heller Mazel Tov to President Kuperberg and First Lady Lydia on Robert Belsky, grandfather of Johanna Rose the engagement of Ben and Sabrina - Cindy and Michael Furst - Mindy Lauerlevin, Ed, Courtney, Justin and Mariah Levin - Sarah and Matt Brenner Barbara and Joe Baim sponsoring the Tenors Concert - Mindy Lauerlevin and Ed Levin - Sandy and Allan Fainbarg Joe and Barbara Baim’s six month anniversary - Bruce and Gail Duner - Linda and Julie Baker Avery Tyler Pittluck, father of Brian Pittluck Rose Kravitz’s special birthday - Sarah and Matt Brenner - Jack and Elaine Finkelstein Bernard Berkowitz, brother of Muriel Dangott Mazel Tov to Francine and Ron Morrison on the birth of - Muriel Dangott their grandson Logan Edward Morrison Frank Nathan, father of Scott Nathan - Mindy Lauerlevin, Ed, Courtney, Justin and Mariah Levin - Francine and Ron Morrison My fellow June birthday celebrants - Cantor Marcia - Mindy Lauerlevin, Ed, Courtney, Justin and Mariah Levin Tilchin, Cecily Yudelman and Helene Coulter, Happy - Cindy and Michael Furst Birthday! - Pam Kauss and Jim Pasino - Jan Riles - Jack and Elaine Finkelstein DONATION - Bruce and Gail Duner - Nanci and Jonathan Patchin - Ruth Abers - Judy Fenton - The Szekel Family - John and Gila Alfi Nephew of Earl Stein SPEEDY RECOVERY - Ofra and David Willner Gabrielle Yoblanka Mother of Marci Novegrod - Ingrid and Joel Gallin - Carole Miller Alan Gitlin - Harry and Joy Blank cont. on next page

The Shofar page 17 s

DONATIONS, cont. from previous page Roslyn rose Radinovsky Reinhard, mother of Ken Reinhard Bert Adler, Husband of Barbara Baim - Sharon and Mark Berman David Marmor, Husband of Barbara Baim Sylvia Sultan, Mother of Barbara Baim RABBIS DISCRETIONARY FUND Sigmund Sultan, Father of Barbara Baim IN HONOR OF Thank you for the Allyiah GENESIS FUND - Jerry and Gabrielle Yablonka IN MEMORY OF Larry Wayne’s 85th birthday Harry Paskil, Father of David Paskil - Marsha and Marshall Margolis - Edythe Zwickler Thank you for your caring thoughts and wishes - Judy Thurmond SOCIAL ACTION DONATION IN HONOR OF Leslie and Scott Dunkleman Thank you to all the wonder “Lady Chefs” of the Comfort Rebecca Shapiro Committee Robert and Diane Rivers - Gabrielle Yablonka IN MEMORY OF “A” Tyler Pittluck CHOIR FUND - His wife Charlotte, his son, Brian and his family DONATION Judy Fenton CANTOR’S DISCRETIONARY FUND Morton and Sara Braver IN HONOR OF Phyllis and Al Steinberg Thank you for your helping the Giacobbe family in their time of need PRESCHOOL FUND - Marilyn and Jerome Gross IN MEMORY OF Thank you for your caring thoughts and wishes Joseph “Milton” Cedar, father of Carl Cedar - Judy Thurmond - Mark and Sue Ann Cross Lisa Heller’s birthday CBI GALA TO HONOR THE GENESIS COMMITTEE - Susan Hodes IN HONOR OF Hal Hurwitz JR. CONGREGATION FUND - Terry Goldfarb IN MEMORY OF Michael and Sharon Schneider Joseph “Milton” Cedar, father of Carl Cedar - Betsy and Barry Adler - Francine and Ron Morrison Ralph Stern - Carol and Ralph Clayman DANIEL ZEMBROSKY YOUTH IN ARTS FUND Ron Morrison and Mark Cross IN MEMORY OF - Peter and Rene Horner Gary Smuckler, nephew of Shirley Zembrosky Andy Bernstein - Shirley Zembrosky - Susan Garber-Yarts YAHRZEIT CONTRIBUTION THE ROSLYN AND JOSEPH BAIM FAMILY Mother, Shirley Morrison FOUNDATION FUND - Francine and Ron Morrison Joseph and Barbara Baim Grandmother, Evelyn Cohn IN HONOR OF - Scott Nathan Rabbi Elie Spitz and Cantor Marcia Tilchin for their Mother, Gertrude Littman support and guidance at the Cantor’s Concert - Steven Littman Sandy Klein Mother, Gertrude Littman Debbie Hebron - Audrey and Bruce Comings Helene Coulter Father, David Zubris Batia Swed - Gloria and David Friedman All the Users Father, Jacob Friedman For their work and time in helping with the Tenor’s Concert - David and Gloria Friedman IN MEMORY OF Mother, Dora Friedman Esther G. Baim, Mother of Joe Baim - David and Gloria Friedman Harry I. Baim, Father of Joe Baim Father, Juius Goodman S. Jay Baim, Brother of Joe Baim - John and Sandy Goodman Frieda Baim, Sister of Joe Baim Roz Baim, Wife of Joe Baim cont. on next page page 18 The Shofar DONATIONS, cont. from previous page Mother, Lillian Sher Mother, Helene Gyurik Mother, Anna Beitscher - Edwin Sher - Stephen Gyurik - Melvin Beitscher Mother, Bernice Kaufman Father, Max M. Kirsch Father, Simon Raphael Diamond - Les Kaufman - Scott D Kirsch - Neddy Vigman Father, David Samson Brother, Robert Rosenthal Brother, Andrew Nitzberg - Joan and Chalky Samson - Howard Rosenthal - Helaine Yeskel Brother, Monte Masserman Brother, Sydney Cohen Mother, Pauline Wolfson - Jay Masserman - Marion Snoyman - John Wolfson Husband, Philip Mahru Mother, Ruth Kramer Esposito Husband, Irving Boronkay - Cheyrl Mahru - Jahn Levitt - Barbara Boronkay Husband, Jack Nihom Brother, Sam Steinberg Father, Harry Hersch - Hetty Nihom - Phyllis and Al Steinberg - Michele Snyder Sister, Sylvia Selcer Father, Max Stern Bialy Family - Ruth Kelman - Sheldon Stern - Ann Bialy Mother, Eva Dora Bussison Mother, Annadel Greenberg Stepfather, Benjamin Arnon - Ruth, Allan, Paul, Adam and - Nancy and Carl Cedar - Moshe Schnotmar Randi Bernstein Father and Opapa, Abraham Ast Father, Seymour Tonkon Father, Samuel Bussison - Michelle, Erica and Sabrina Lewis - Donna and Jeff Punim - Ruth, Allan, Paul, Adam and Mother, Frieda Lubing Son, Michael Deutsch Randi Bernstein - Andy and Esther Dosick - Shirley Deutsch Husband, Sol Bernstein Mother, Muriel Fallman Mother, Mollie Goodman - Ruth, Allan, Paul, Adam and - Jane Kaye - Shirley Deutsch Randi Bernstein Sister, Arleen Madell Dregne Ritter Husband, Joseph Deutsch Mother, Lena Blumstein - Sharon and Alex Gerstenzang - Shirley Deutsch - Arnold Blumstein Sister, Bonnie Labovitz - Marsha and Marshall Margolis Sisterhood’s Mother, Binx Rock MAH JONGG - Joan and Chalky Samson Book Club Father, Nathan Louis Bellovin Every Wednesday Night - Shirley and Leonard Kessler The Immortal Life of 7:00 – 9:00 PM Mother, Sarah Miron Henrietta Lacks CBI Social Hall - Pnina Stein Brother, Harun Bati by Rebecca Skloot Drop in~ no - Joe and Yolande Bati Thursday, May 12 reservations Mother, Hannah Anigovsky at 7:30 PM necessary! - Phyllis Steinberg Aunt, Raye Goldberg - Joan and Chalky Samson Bring your friends, Mother, Esther Passman Epstein so you can keep - David Epstein hangin’ with them. Grandmother, Augusta Gerstenzang - Sharon and Alex Gerstenzang Mother, Ruth Reader - Sandy and John Goodman SAVE THE Father, Israel Katz - Norman Katz Even Silence DATE Father, Mossa Farivar Has An End - Djamshid Farivar by Gertrude Stein Cantor Tilchin will Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather Thursday, June 23 be conducting - The Gaglio Family at 7:30 PM introductory Torah reading classes: Please see the CBI July 10, 17, 24, website for a complete Check our website at list of Yartzeits and August 7. http://www.cbi18.org for this month. Mark your calendar!

The Shofar page 19

Honor a loved one... celebrate a special event . . . Come Dance with us uphold the memory of the dearly departed . . . with a donation to Congregation B’nai Israel.

Please Accept My Contribution to Congregation B’nai Israel’s: ___ General Fund ___ Anita Nixen Music Fund Tuesdays 6:30~9:00 PM ___ Rabbi's Discretionary Fund ___ Cindi Rosen Religious Children ages 7-12 must be accompanied by a parent ___ Social Action Fund School Fund ___ Cantor's Discretionary Fund ___ Genesis Fund ___ Jr. Congregation Fund ___ Paul Kahn Youth Fund ___ Choir Fund ___ Pre-School Fund ___ Prayer Book Fund: ___ Daniel Zembrosky Youth in Chumash $54 ~ Arts Fund IRVINE PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY AND ORTHODONTICS Siddur $36 ~ ___ Membership Support Fund World Class Care Just Around the Corner Donation is given by: 4902 Irvine Center Drive • Suite 111 • Irvine, CA 92604 www.irvinepdo.com Name ______

Amount of Donation ______Elegance in Balloons Address______Custom Balloon Decor Personalized Favors ______Certified Balloon Artist Acknowledgment to be sent to: Member of the Qualatex Balloon Network

PO Box 18644 (714) 281-6131 ______Anaheim, CA 92817-8644 CBA Cell: (714) 749-4151 Irma Minsky, CBA ______

In Honor/Memory/Occasion of:

______Please enclose check and mail with this form to Congre- gation B’nai Israel, 2111 Bryan Ave., Tustin, CA 92782

TREE OF LIFE Commemorate a life-cycle event with an everlasting leaf on B’nai Israel’s Tree of Life. Each leaf is a $180 donation and is personally engraved with your own words of recognition. To order, please phone the office. BONNIE CURKIN YAHRZEIT PLAQUES Owner / Administrator The loss of a loved one is a difficult time for us. Memorializing these family members, however, is an important and honored tradition. Each Yahrzeit plaque A Bubbe & Zayde's Place is a $250 donation and is personally engraved with Quality Living for Jewish Seniors proper dates and Hebrew/English names; it is secured to our memorial wall to be lit annually on the appropriate date of remembrance. To order, please call the office Tel 714-928-5030 2220 N. Concord Fax 714-543-3838 Santa Ana, CA 92705 at (714) 730-9693. Business Licence No. 306000827 / 306001252 / 306001360 / 306001844 page 20 The Shofar May 6, 2011 and SUPPORT THE June 3, 2011 at 5:30 PM TORAH FUND

Women’s League for Conservative Judaism CBI’s Family invites you to receive the 5771 pin Shabbat Service as a gift to you , for a donation of $180 and Dinner This pin is designed with the theme of Kehillah (for families with children 10 years and under) Kedoshah, a common term for Jewish community in $10 member • $15 non-member Eastern Europe. It implies a (includes children 12 years and over) community bound together $5 per child member by similar values and beliefs. $7 child non-member (2-11yrs) Designed by Eyton Brandes, this pin Children 2 years and under are free commemorates the energizing power of women’s community.

Contact Sisterhood about a convenient payment plan~ Other donations are welcomed in any amount. Torah Fund strengthens and perpetuates Conservative/Masorti Judaism worldwide.

WORK FROM HOME • NO SELLING • NO INVENTORY NO PARTY PLAN • NO RISK

(949) 933‐7567 • [email protected]

The Shofar page 21 page 22 The Shofar The Shofar page 23 ancillary service endorsement

THE SHOFAR A Monthly Publication Elie Spitz Rabbi Marcia Tilchin Cantor Joel Kuperberg President Sandy Klein Executive Director Alan Rusonik Director, Lifelong Learning Lisa Heller Preschool Director Barbara Sherman Youth Director Affiliated with United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism Dated Material Schedule of Services for May Friday, May 6 Friday, May 20 5:30 PM Family Service and Dinner 6:00 PM Service Saturdays 6:00 PM Service 8:00 PM Service Saturday, May 7 Saturday, May 21 only 9:30 AM Service 9:30 AM Service PARASHAT: EMOR PARASHAT: B’HUKOTAI • Child Care is available from 10:00 AM until the Torah: Leviticus 21:1-22:16 Torah: Leviticus 26:3 – 27:15 conclusion of services Haftarah: Ezekiel 44:15 - 31 Haftarah: Jeremiah 16:19 – 17:14 every week. MONDAY, May 9 Friday, May 27 • Junior Congregation 8:15 PM Mincha 6:00 PM Service for Grades K through Saturday, May 28 6 begins at 10:30 AM Tuesday, May 10 Bar Mitzvah of Adam Jacobs upstairs in the Family 7:30 AM Shacharit Service Birkat Hahodesh Life Center. Friday, May 13 9:30 AM Service: • Pre-schoolers and 6:00 PM Anniversary Service PARASHAT:B’MIDBAR parents are invited to Saturday, May 14 Torah: Numbers 1:1 – 1:54 join the Torah return 9:30 AM Service Haftarah: Hosea 2:1 - 22 procession and a PARASHAT: B’HAR special Shabbat Torah: Leviticus 25:1 – 25:38 service that follows in Room 105. Haftarah: Jeremiah 32:6 - 27

D.D.S., F.A.G.D. A P r o f e s s i o n a l D e n t a l C o r p o r a t i o n

AYAL WILLNER, M.D., F.A.A.P., F.A.C.S., INC. Aesthetic & Restorative Dentistry ...in tandem with nature PEDIATRIC & GENERAL OTOLARYNGOLOGY • HEAD & NECK SURGERY 433 Wordlow, Long Beach, CA 90806 (562) 427-0550 • Fax (562) 988-8899 (714) 637-9270 • Fax (714) 637-2782 17871 Santiago Boulevard, Suite 228 Fashion Island • 1401 Avocado Ave., #710, Newport Beach, CA 92660 (949) 719-9132 2601 Airport Drive, Suite 210, Torrance, CA 90505 (310) 530-1681 Villa Park, California 92667 10861 Cherry Street, Suite 303, Los Alamitos, CA 90720 (562) 596-9889 [email protected] page 24 The Shofar