Beth Jacob Congregation Community Guide

5776 Connected to the Past – Committed to the Future 2015 - 2016 A Message from Our

Living the Good Life e all want to get the most out of life. The blessing of living a good and happy Wlife is indeed achievable, if we would just have the tools to tap into it. The good news is that those tools are available to every Jew for the taking, and they are the , mitzvot, Jewish values and community. These enable us to deepen our relationships, add meaning to our experiences, enhance our sense of personal fulfillment, bring joy to life and enable us to be the best we can be.

Beth Jacob is a unique “tool shop,” a special place, a spiritual center, and second home for so many, which brings Torah and a sense of community into our lives. Our engaging Torah classes, educational programs, prayer services, chesed opportunities, pro-Israel and pro-AIPAC activism, social events, teen and youth programming are all designed to make Judaism come alive in our minds and hearts. This all helps us live the good life.

Towards the end of each Yom Kippur Amidah, we say “Elokai ad shelo notzarti, eini kidai – “My G-d, before I was created, I wasn’t worthy.” What is the meaning of The tools for this puzzling statement? “ Rav Kook, the first Chief Rabbi of modern day pre-State Israel, explained that living a good life you are born into this world in a specific time and place for a reason. You have personal capabilities to fulfill a unique purpose that can only be achieved in that are available to time and place. Indeed, “before I was created I wasn’t worthy,” because had I been born in an earlier era, I would have been worthless, unable to accomplish my every Jew for the purpose for both myself and the master plan of the progression of history. While the mission is uncertain, open ended and indefinite, we attempt, during the course taking – they are of our lives to define the substance and contours of that mission. Why are we here? What is my purpose? How can I make a difference? How can I live in a way the Torah, mitzvot, that maximizes my life and impacts others? All big questions. No easy answers. At Beth Jacob, in a warm, fun and friendly environment, we reflect individually and Jewish values and communally with these meaningful questions. Engage in these questions together with us. Learn Torah. Build relationships. community. Receive support during the tough times. Celebrate the good times with friends. If ” you haven’t been a part of it, check it out. I think you’ll see how this can help you and your family get more out of life.

As we head into a new year, I want to express appreciation to our energetic staff, our dedicated shul officers, and all of you—our dear members—for all your time, energy and devotion which make all these programs happen, make them successful and make our shul the very special place it is. Let us continue working together to create a compassionate and righteous community that makes a difference in our lives, in the world around us and for which we can all be proud.

It is with that sense of pride in the past and anticipation for our future, that Jordana and I wish you and your family a year of good health, happiness, prosperity and success, together with peace in Israel and the world.

Rabbi Kalman Topp

2 Table of Contents Torah Programs Weekly Class Schedule...... 4-5 Scholars in Residence & Shabbat Programs...... 6-7 Modern Minds on Jewish Matters...... 8 Film & Entertainment...... 9 Prayer...... 10 Shabbat Morning at Beth Jacob...... 11 Sisterhood & Men’s Club...... 12 Social Action...... 13 Young Professionals...... 14-15 Youth...... 16-17 Teens...... 18-19 BILU...... 20 Bnai Mitzvah...... 21 Community Projects for Israel...... 22 AIPAC & Friends of Israel Committee...... 23 Resources & Opportunities...... 24 Summer Learning...... 25 Lifecycle Events...... 26 Holidays, Commemorations & Celebrations...... 27

3 Torah Weekly Class Schedule

Portals of Entry Monday through Friday Daf Yomi, 7:00 am hen looking at the Jewish Come join this popular worldwide Wcalendar as a whole, a fascinating dichotomy presents learning program. itself. We often go through Mishna, 8:30 am a roller coaster of emotions, Rabbi Adir Posy each holiday or milestone This informal group studies Mishna having its own impact on our after the 3rd Shacharit Minyan. spiritual landscape. From the passionate retelling of the Exodus of the Seder to the frenetic ecstasy of SUNDAYS Purim to the fear and trembling of Yom Kippur, Halacha Chabura, 9:00 am Jewish life has a way of touching the deepest Rabbi Nachum Sauer recesses of our hearts. Yet it is interesting to note An interactive study of Halacha followed by a summary shiur. that this goal is achieved through a variety of For men only. different modalities. Like all of our traditions, we believe that this dichotomy is by design. While at certain times, we are meant to be consumed by MONDAYS our practical Avodat Hashem, checking the tip of a Intermediate Hebrew Conversation, 9:45 am Lulav or scrubbing a pot to be kashered, at other Bracha Malkin times we are meant to revel in the closeness and Improve your Hebrew skills with a conversational curriculum passion of the relationship we have with Hashem, designed to make learning Hebrew an exciting experience. like on , which has very few organic rituals. For it has been this balance that has The Intersection of Judaism and the Modern World kept Jewish life vibrant for so many generations, 11:00 am to 12:00 pm through persecution and pogroms, and everything Rabbi Kalman Topp in between. If you are interested in grappling with modern ethical issues, Our Adult Education Program here at Beth Jacob then this class is for you. goes along similar lines. Like Jewish life itself, our Torah Center is proud to be multifaceted, offering a Bread and Bible wide swath of classic text-based studies, riveting 12:00 to 1:00 pm talks on contemporary issues, educational film nights, action-oriented lectures and more that come Rabbi Kalman Topp together to form a beautiful tapestry. We encourage Enjoy lunch (bread is optional) you to look through our schedule of classes, and learn the portion of the week. shiurim, lectures, scholars in residence and events We will explore the text and realize how many different ways we offer to and highlight themes and expand your mind, add meaning to your life, and interpretations of the make a difference in our Jewish community and commentaries. beyond. We invite you to join with us to experience all of the great things that make us the multifaceted community that we know and love.

Rabbi Adir Posy 4 Torah Weekly Class Schedule

MONDAYS (Continued) THURSDAYS BMW Beit Midrash for Women, 7:30 - 9:30 pm Treasures of the Alef Bet, 12:00 pm Women come together Rabbi Adir Posy to learn, think, and grow A stimulating discussion of a Torah topic in a dynamic, nurturing relating to each letter of the Hebrew alphabet. environment. Learn with In the Ives Lounge. a chavruta on the topic of Gemara, 8:15 pm your choice, or join a study Rabbi Nachum Sauer group, where we tackle Journey into the depths of the Talmud with one of the topics like Tefilah, Tehillim and Parsha led by clergy, leading Talmidei Chachamim in Los Angeles. teachers, guest speakers and our own BMW members. SHABBAT TUESDAYS Parshat Hashavua, 8:00 am First Times in Tanach, 11:00 am Rabbi Kalman Topp Chazan Arik Wollheim Start your Shabbat morning with a coffee By exploring the first time something and enhance your understanding of the biblical appears in Tanach we might understand narrative by discovering the underlying themes. the Torah’s understanding of our most basic human emotions, drives and experiences. Unlocking the Siddur, 30 minutes before Mincha Gemara Beitzah, 7:00 pm Rabbi Adir Posy Rabbi Nechemia Langer See the Siddur in a new light with an eye towards the halacha, This class delves into laws relating to Shabbat and the philosophy and inspiration of our shul service. Jewish holidays. Men only.

Torah Gems, 7:30 pm Beth Jacob is on itunes! Rabbi Arye Sufrin Search “Beth Jacob” in the itunes store and Learn Masechet Bava Kamma in depth. download a wide variety of recorded shiurim free of charge. Living the Good Life, 8:00 pm Recordings also available at bethjacob.org. Rabbi Kalman Topp Learn how Jewish values can enhance your relationships, your career and your life. Machon Puah Symposium Sunday, November 22 WEDNESDAYS 9:00 am to 1:00 pm Parenting and Parsha, 9:00 am This half day learning program will feature lectures Given on a rotating basis by and presentations by doctors, and mental health Rabbi Kalman Topp & professionals on medical, ethical and halachic aspects of Rabbi Y. Boruch Sufrin infertility. Symposium will address real life difficulties and In conjunction with Harkham Hillel Hebrew endeavor to offer solutions. Academy. Coffee & yogurt are served.

5 Torah Scholars in Residence & Shabbat Programs

Rabbi Dov Lipman Shabbat, September 5, 2015 Rabbi Dov Lipman served as a member of the 19th Knesset with the Yesh Atid party, and is the author of four books about Judaism, including his latest, To Unify a Nation: My Vision for the Future of Israel. He currently serves as chairman of Anglo and Diaspora Affairs for Yesh Atid.

Rabbi Menachem Leibtag Simchat Torah, Monday & Tuesday, October 5 & 6, 2015 Rabbi Menachem Leibtag is a senior lecturer at Yeshivat Har Etzion and Midreshet Lindenbaum in Israel, as well as an acclaimed Torah scholar and pioneer of Jewish education on the internet. His weekly Parsha essays boast a diverse readership that spans the globe and religious affiliation.

Rabbi David Stav Shabbat, October 17, 2015 Rabbi David Stav is Chief Rabbi of the city of Shoham, and co-founder and chairman of Tzohar, an organization that advocates for moderate rabbinic leadership and public policy initiatives in Israel. He is a graduate of Yeshivat Mercaz Harav and holds semicha for dayanut from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel.

Leon Wieseltier AIPAC Shabbat, October 31, 2015 Leon Wieseltier was Literary Editor of The New Republic from 1983 to 2014, and is currently the Isaiah Berlin Senior Fellow in Culture and Policy at the Brookings Institution and a Contributing Editor and Critic at The Atlantic. He has published numerous works of fiction and nonfiction, including Kaddish, a National Jewish Book Award finalist. In 2013, Wieseltier won the $1 million Dan David Prize for being a “foremost writer and thinker who confronts and engages with the central issues of our times.”

Betty Ehrenberg OU Shabbat, December 5, 2015 Betty Ehrenberg is Executive Director of the World Jewish Congress-United States and North America and is editor of WJCs Iran Update. She also has an extensive background in Jewish education and has taught advanced Judaic Studies at the Ramaz Upper School, among other educational institutions.

6 Torah Scholars in Residence & Shabbat Programs

Dr. Yael Ziegler Shabbat, January 9, 2016 Dr. Yael Ziegler is a lecturer in Tanakh at Herzog College and Matan in Israel, and has lectured widely throughout the United States and Europe. She is the author of Promises to Keep: The Oath in Biblical Narrative, and Ruth: From Alienation to Monarchy.

Rabbi Hanoch Teller Youth Shabbat, February 6, 2016 Rabbi Hanoch Teller is a globe-trotting modern-day maggid (storyteller) renowned as the Shakespeare of the Jewish World. He has lectured before audiences on five continents, is author of 28 books, and has also written and produced two documentaries that have been televised and screened around the world.

Rachelle Sprecher Fraenkel Yoatzot Halacha Shabbat, February 27, 2016 Rachelle Sprecher Fraenkel, Nishmat’s Dean of Students, is a certified Yoetzet Halacha, core staff member on Nishmat’s Golda Koschitzky Women’s Halachic Hotline, and teacher of Halacha and Talmud. Rachelle studied Biology & Talmud at Bar Ilan, learned at Midreshet Lindenbaum and was in the first graduating class of Matan’s Talmudic Institute. She resides in Nof Ayalon with her husband and children, and is the mother of Naftali Fraenkel Hy”d - her words of faith and courage in the wake of her son’s kidnapping and murder strengthened and unified a nation.

Yossi Klein Halevi Shabbat, March 5, 2016 Yossi Klein Halevi is a Fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute, as well as Israel Correspondent and Contributing Editor of the The New Republic. He has authored numerous books, including Like Dreamers, which Ambassador Michael Oren called an “Israeli Epic.”

Community Wide Sharsheret Breast Cancer Awareness Shabbaton Thursday, April 7-Shabbat, April 9, 2016 Sharsheret is a national nonprofit organization supporting young Jewish women facing breast cancer by fostering connections with networks of peers, health professionals, and resources. We will join with Young Israel of Century City and Bnai David Judea for a variety of programs that will include Thursday night challah baking, Shabbat morning drasha by Rabbi Topp, and a Shabbat afternoon panel discussion.

7 Torah Modern Minds on Jewish Matters

We invite you to join the conversation on important issues facing our communities. Top-notch speakers. Insightful new ideas. Electrifying atmosphere. A Series of Wednesday Evening Talks at Beth Jacob Speakers will include:

Randy Neal Rabbi Dr. Judea Pearl October 14, 2015 October 21, 2015 November 11, 2015 Western Regional Coordinator Renowned international speaker and UCLA Professor of Computer Science & for Christians United for Israel maggid (storyteller) known for his Statistics and Director of the University’s (CUFI). Has grown CUFI into the lectures and vignettes on topics of Cognitive Systems laboratory who is an largest pro-Israel organization ethics and spiritual growth. Bestselling outspoken opponent of BDS on campus. in America. According to IDF author of Artscroll’s Maggid book Father of slain Wall Street Journal reporter Colonel and Vice Commander series inspired by the teachings and Daniel Pearl Hy”d, and co-founder of the Bentzi Gruber: “Randy gives stories of the “Maggid of ,” Daniel Pearl Foundation. Co-edited the important facts about Israel Rabbi Sholom Schwadron. Fifth award winning book I am Jewish: Personal that even many Israelis do generation mohel who wrote Bris Milah: not know.” Circumcision - the Covenant of . Reflections Inspired by the Last Words of Daniel Pearl.

Past speakers & topics have included: Colonel Richard Kemp Israel, Gaza, Morality and a Complicit Press Michael Medved The American Jewish Future: Doom or Destiny? Hillel Neuer Israel at the UN: A Nation that Dwells Alone? Rabbi Shmuley Boteach Homosexuality in Our Community Rabbi Joseph Telushkin Being a Good Person in a Morally Complex World Esther Jungreis The Miracle of Israel *Program of the Year according to the Beth Jacob clergy. 8 Film & Entertainment

Beth Jacob Cinema Friends, food and films that challenge, intrigue and enlighten.

Rising From Divorce Sunday, October 25 An Ohel Children’s Home & Family Services Documentary This film aims to begin a communal conversation about the pain of divorce and its consequences for children and divorceés alike. The film features interviews with divorceés, children of divorce, rabbis, community leaders, educators and leading mental health professionals, and includes practical tools and advice to help ensure that children of divorce can thrive and parents receive necessary support.

A Voice Among the Silent Kristallnacht, Monday, November 9 The remarkable story of a man who warned the world about Hitler’s plans for the Jews. James McDonald, League of Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, was one of the first Americans to meet face-to-face with Hitler in 1933, and repeatedly warned world leaders including President Franklin Roosevelt and future Pope Pius XII, of the looming tragedy he foresaw. McDonald worked tirelessly to find safe havens for refugees fleeing Nazi Germany, and after the war became the first U.S. Ambassador to Israel. The film is based on McDonald’s own diaries, which were discovered in 2003. Night Out at the Theater!

Beth Jacob Goes to the Disney Concert Hall Thursday, January 14, 8:00 pm The incomparable Itzhak Perlman plays Mozart and leads Tchaikovsky’s beloved Fifth.

Prices and details to follow. For more info: [email protected] 9 Prayer Tefilah Helps Us Refocus on What’s Really Important in Life

he strength of a community can be measured in different ways. In addition to size, activism Tor financial strength, a Jewish community is measured spiritually as well. The amount of Torah learning is one element and prayer is yet another. We’re blessed to have a shul with three daily morning services, where no matter what, a minyan will be present daily for all services so no one should miss the opportunity to daven in a minyan or recite Kaddish. A shul that is multigenerational and offers a variety of services, suitable for every age group and personal preference. Prayer is the time to refocus on what’s really important in life as we enter a conversation with God. It’s an opportunity to take a break from a hectic, busy life and recharge yourself - it’s a form of meditation. Tefilah, together with music, has the power to bring people Chazan Arik Wollheim together, excite, inspire and transform.

High Holiday Services with the Maccabeats The Maccabeats will once again join us for lively and spirited High Holiday services in Shapell Sanctuary. The 30 melodies we’ll sing together are accessible by streaming or downloading at bethjacob.org. CDs are also available for free pickup in the shul office.

Tefilah Education for Kids I have the great opportunity of being involved with our youth education program, designing our children’s tefilah programs, Bar Mitzvah preparation and the Anim Zmirot Club. My goal is to increase knowledge and more importantly to infuse that knowledge with love of Tefilah, music and Jewish education, giving kids a positive experience so they will want to continue learning.

A Sh’liach Tzibur is Part of the Fabric of a Community True worship occurs 24/7 by providing a network of support for one another, and should not be detached from ongoing acts of chesed, teaching, sharing, supporting and caring. In my view, the ultimate Sh’liach Tzibur is involved in the life of its members, and can therefore look around the room during Tefilah and know what people might be thinking about. This knowledge, the outcome of a relationship with every congregant, is what makes people truly “connect” to the service and that is my goal.

Anim Zmirot Club For boys ages 8 to 12. Join Chazan Arik Wollheim once a week for an interactive class on the Shabbat Tefilot. Graduates of this course will learn a selection of Tefilot at the end of the Shabbat morning service, and will have the opportunity to lead a portion of our Shabbat morning services in Shapell Sanctuary. For more information, please contact [email protected]

10 Experience a Shabbat Morning at Beth Jacob

Walk into Beth Jacob on any Shabbat morning, and you will find a happening, bustling congregation with diverse Tefilah opportunities and numerous chances to connect with community.

Find the service that interests you - there are six different minyanim that meet here every Shabbat to cater to all of our constituent groups within the Shabbat Morning Minyanim framework of Halacha. Each minyan includes inspiring We provide several engaging, inspirational, and words of Torah to add meaning to your week, and each meaningful services. has its own kiddush, so that you can eat, relax and • Hashkama Minyan, 7:10 am, Schoenfeld Beit Midrash schmooze with friends after davening. • Rabbi Topp’s Parsha Shiur, 8:00 am, Davening at Beth Jacob is truly a family experience, Eisenstat Beit Midrash where strollers line the entryway, and children enjoy • Benny’s Minyan, 8:30 am, Eisenstat Beit Midrash customized dynamic programming at our Kestenbaum Family Youth Department, which includes access • Main Service, 9:00 am, Shapell Sanctuary to Jacob’s Garden, a state of the art outdoor park • Jr. Congregation, 9:00 am, Schoenfeld Beit Midrash adjacent to the shul. • Explanatory Minyan, 9:00 am, monthly

We invite you to be a part of it, and experience Torah, • Young Professionals, 9:30 am, Bayer Hall Tefilah, and community on a weekly basis! • Teen Minyan, 9:30 am, Ives Youth Lounge

11 Community

Sisterhood Sisterhood 2015-16 continues to be a “social club” not limited to sisters or girlfriends. We have programs and activities that attract primarily seniors and empty nesters and will help people feel a “kesher” to and excitement for “all things Beth Jacob.” Having programs for seniors will be Beth Jacob’s way of thanking them for what they have done as builders of our shul and community. Our committee will attempt to have programs that will also attract a somewhat younger demographic as well, namely the “empty nesters” (55 and above). We look forward to bi-monthly brunches with interesting speakers, activities and perhaps short local trips, and will plan to continue our successful “Masters Shabbat Luncheons.” These luncheons are a good opportunity to socialize while dining with friends, sing zmirot and be inspired by divrei Torah. To join the Beth Jacob Sisterhood, please contact Shelley Weinstock or call the shul office at 310-278-1911 or email [email protected]. Men are also welcome and encouraged to join! Men’s Club We are thrilled to invite you to be a part of Beth Jacob’s Men’s Club for 2015-16, and are looking forward to another year of exciting events. We have many programs in the works for the upcoming year, including a river rafting trip (the weather didn’t cooperate the past two years), wine club events, scotch and cigar shiurim, poker tournament, as well as bowling, softball, and basketball leagues. We also plan to have some interesting guest speakers for an evening or even a Sunday brunch, as well as coordinate joint events and programming with the Sisterhood! In order to make this all possible, we’ll need your help, input and participation. If you have not joined our Men’s Club in the past, we welcome your involvement in our community. For those of you who have been active members, your continued participation means a lot to us and we hope you will join us for the upcoming year. We are also planning a joint Men’s Club/Shabbat Kiddush Club combined membership at a discounted rate!!! To join, please contact Jeff Werber ([email protected]) or call 310-278-1911, email [email protected], or visit bethjacob.org/mensclub. Jeff Werber President, Beth Jacob Men’s Club

12 Social Action Caring for Our Community and The World Around Us

Kol Yisrael Areivim Zeh BaZeh. We are all responsible for one another. Below is a list of all aspects of our Areivim Committee, which provides support and a helping hand for those within our shul community. Sponsored in memory of Estelle Samson a”h. Areivim Shalom Aleichem Team Our Shalom Aleichem team ensures that newcomers to our shul receive a friendly greeting. If you would like to volunteer to greet shul guests on Shabbat morning, please contact Ilana Melmed at [email protected] Shabbat Hospitality If you would like to host a shul member or visitor for a Shabbat meal, please contact Lisa Tennenbaum at [email protected] or Esther Braun at [email protected] Shiva Support, Fruit Platters, and Meals for the Bereaved If you would like to provide a meal for a bereaved family, please contact Myra Monk at [email protected], Marcie Meier at [email protected], or Phyllis Katzin at [email protected] Chevra Kadisha Shul volunteers engage in Chesed Shel Emet. For women’s taharot: contact Myra Monk at [email protected]. For men’s taharot: contact Benny Adler at [email protected] Bikur Cholim If you or someone you know is unfortunately ill or homebound, or if you want to participate in the mitzvah of Bikur Cholim, please email Michelle Dolgin at [email protected] Meals for Moms A home cooked meal can help ease the transition for young families with new babies. If you would like to provide a meal, please email Ashley Berger-Woodall at [email protected] We welcome your involvement! To volunteer, please email the contacts listed above. In addition to those listed above, we thank Areivim Committee members Phyllis Herskovitz, Dr. Rachel Kessler, and Judy Portnoy.

Nekadesh et Shimcha Baolam - We Will Sanctify Your Name on Earth Engaging in acts of kindness for those outside our community and the world around us. Nekadesh Nekadesh Committee: Lindsay Bourkoff, Malka Katzin, Joan Rimmon and Sharon Wiener Initiatives for 2015-16

Annual Blood Drive, December 20, 2015, 8:30 am to 2:00 pm in Bayer Hall.

Big Sunday Delegation, May 2016. A month-long, city-wide community service Project MOT Holiday Care Packages for Jewish US event that brings together thousands of Troops. Creating care packages for our fellow Jews serving people of all backgrounds to improve life for LA residents in remote places around the world. To get involved, please through various community enhancement projects. contact Joan Rimmon at [email protected]. 13 Community Young Professionals A Community Created by the Members, for the Members

s the summer A comes to a close and we approach the Yamim Noraim, Tamar and I are grateful for what has truly been an incredible year. As a community, the YP minyan has shown tremendous commitment and growth in ways that have exceeded all of our expectations. The vision of “created by the members for the members” has been A Year of #Hashtags: a model that has engendered community Calendar at a Glance and fostered lifelong relationships. Whether it was the very well attended shiurim, fun social events like Amazing Torah #YPTorah Race or Lights Out Chanukah Bash, YP Project Uplift hosting many YP’ers for Shabbat meals, #ypuplift or watching the YP minyan swarm the Pre Rosh Hashanah Shiur Beth Jacob blood drive in record numbers, with Rabbi Sufrin we truly couldn’t have felt more proud Mission Impossible? to be part of such an incredible, vibrant, Repentance Day, Now or Never and caring community. We feel the Thursday, September 10, 7:00 pm relationships we have forged have been At the Sufrin home incredibly fulfilling and inspiring, and we can’t wait to see what 2015-16 brings Monthly Women’s Learning Network for us and the entire community. We #WLN Each month will feature a two-part learning W also recognize that without the amazing members of our YP minyan, none of this series on a topic of interest to women in success could have ever happened, and areas of Halacha and Jewish philosophy. L for that we thank all of you! The shiurim will be given by Rabbi Sufrin and different members of our community. For This year, our members are working info: Anna Strauss [email protected] N diligently to plan an exciting year focused | Dena Katz [email protected] | on spiritual growth through inspirational Jaime Gruen [email protected] Torah learning opportunities, meaningful chesed programs, and fun social events Torah Gems with Rabbi Sufrin that build community and help every #TorahGems member foster friendships. To get a taste Tuesday Evenings, 7:30 pm. of what is coming, please see our exciting A weekly 45 minute chaburah that delves year at a glance! We look forward to into different categories and topics, including seeing you at shul. Halacha, Gemara, Mussar, Chassidut, and contemporary topics. For men only. Rabbi Arye & Tamar Sufrin 14 Shabbat Programs Chanukah #YPFestivalofLights

Beth Jacob Friday Night Lights Out Chanukah Bash YP Dinners Tuesday, December 7, 8:00 pm October 30 Join us for great food, Menorah November 20 lighting, YP dreidel tournament, December 18 divrei Torah, and lots of fun! For info: January 29 Debbie Schames [email protected] | February 26 Mimi Green [email protected] April 8 Chanukah Lights Out Tish May 20 Friday Night, December 11 Great food, inspirational singing, and divrei Torah! Baja Beth Jacob Shabbat Luncheon December 26 Chanukah Toy Drive throughout the Second annual Mexican fiesta luncheon. Join all YP’ers month of December. Bring a new toy for a Shabbat gathering of community building, fun, and to benefit a child in need, and place it great entertainment! Details and pricing to follow. in the bins that will be located at Beth Jacob. Connect with Us! #YPSocials Chesed Initiatives #YPChessed/#YPHelps Backyard Movie Night Saturday Night, October 24, 2015 Annual Blood Drive in Bayer Hall For info: Mimi Green [email protected] | Sunday, December 20, 2015 Lauren Packer [email protected] 8:30 am to 2:00 pm YP Tough Mudder Pesach Food Drive #YPTough Throughout the month of April. Sunday, November 1, 2015 Place your canned goods and Join other Beth Jacob members, non-perishable food items in including Daniel Packer, Seth Egorin, the bins that will be located and Rabbi Sufrin in Temecula, CA for at Beth Jacob. Food will be a 10 mile, 20 obstacle team challenge! distributed to families in need. $156.04 per person. For info: Bikkur Cholim: If you would Daniel Packer [email protected] like to make a Purim or Chanukah Turkey Bowl Football Game visit to Children’s Hospital, please #YPTurkeyBowl contact Melissa Gruenfeld Thursday, November 26. [email protected] | Spend Thanksgiving morning at Dahlia Rimmon | Danny Goldberg [email protected] our first annual Turkey Bowl Football Game. For more information on any of these exciting For info, or to sign up to play: upcoming programs and events, please contact Chaim Katz [email protected] Rabbi Sufrin at [email protected].

15 Kestenbaum Family Youth Department

Rabbi Eli Broner, Youth Director Experiencing Judaism with All of Our Senses e are about to enter the month of Tishrei – this is a month made for Wchildren! The Torah and our sages designed everything we are about to experience in a way that will make our Judaism come alive, stimulating our every sense in a meaningful way. Hearing the shofar reminds us to reflect on the past and identify with Hashem as our King. Eating all kinds of symbolic sweets reminds us of the power of positive thinking - the sweetness of the honey sticks with us as we go into the year. We take time to engage in a conversation with Hashem through Tefilah, reflecting on what we need to fix and the good things we plan to do in the year ahead. Shaking the lulav and etrog helps us recognize the importance of serving Hashem with every part of our body. Dancing with the Torah expresses our joy for the great privilege of having the Torah. Torah, Tefilah, Jewish life and gemilut chasadim need to be an all encompassing and enjoyable experience. This is the very foundation of the Kestenbaum Family Youth Department and its many activities. Our goal is for every child to experience Jewish life in an educational, fun, enjoyable and safe environment that keeps them coming back for more. All of our staff are trained in CPR, first aid, child safety and protection, security and safety procedures, and receive ongoing advancement in child development and care. Tefilah in our youth groups is lively and inspirational thanks to our use of the Koren Children & Youth Siddur, as well as melodies implemented by Chazan Arik Wollheim. Enjoy a glimpse of what we have planned for you this year. We look forward to experiencing Judaism together!

Shabbat Morning Groups Join us at 9:00 am every Shabbat morning for fun groups! Activities include davening, snack, games, singing, Torah learning and prizes. For ages: • 6 months to 2 years old • 4 to 6 years old • 9 to 12 years old • 2 to 4 years old • 7 to 8 years old (Junior Congregation)

Holiday groups meet at the start of davening in Shapell Sanctuary and will feature additional activities like baking, games, stories and treats designed to enhance the holiday experience.

16 Youth Department Year at a Glance Exciting Events that will Keep Kids Coming Back for More!

Shabbat & Holiday Programs Fun Zone!

Sukkah Decorating Party Fun Zone in Jacob’s Garden! & Wacky Sukkah Contest Sunday, October 25, Sunday, September 20, 10:00 am -12:00 pm 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Kids in the kitchen | Simchat Torah Children’s Hakafot Woodworking | Lunch Monday, October 5, 5:00 pm Entertainment | Story time | Motzei Shabbat Movie Night Dancing & Hakafot for kids & parents | Treats | November 14, 6:30 pm Pasta Dinner Kids are invited for Saturday night Simchat Torah Day, October 6, will include children’s out at Beth Jacob, including Havdalah, dancing and Kol Hanearim. a movie, and hot dog dinner.

Chanukah Trip to Glow Zone Fun Shops Sunday, December 6 Sunday, January 10, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Join us for miniature golf, Choose between several exciting activities, including underground laser tag, chocolate candy making, art master and Zumba. climbing walls, ropes course, and more! It’s all in the glow! Sports Madness Tournament Sunday, February 21, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Tu B’Shvat Family Nature Hike Juco kids will play against youth Sunday, January 17 department staff. All are invited as we immerse Who are you rooting for? ourselves in nature & learn about the holiday of the trees together. Trip to Mulligan Family Fun Center Sunday, April 17 Youth Shabbat with Rabbi Hanoch Teller A Pre-Pesach field trip. February 6, Parshat Laser tag, mini-golf, go-karts, Rabbi Hanoch Teller is a globe-trotting batting cages and more! modern-day maggid (storyteller) renowned as the Shakespeare of the End of Year Celebration Jewish world. Rabbi Teller will visit Wednesday, June 15, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm with our Shabbat morning groups Help us wrap us a great year with an awards and tell stories to the children. ceremony, video competition and a celebratory dinner for great groups and kids. Purim Carnival Wednesday Evening, March 23 Fun for all ages! The whole family is invited for carnival games, prizes, face painting, costume parade, Chesed entertainment and more! Chesed Project Lag B’Omer Sunday, March 13, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Thursday, May 26, 6:00 - 8:00 pm We will be making Conkerr Cancer Pillowcases Enjoy hot dogs, s’mores and a fire show! for children with cancer.

17 Teen Life

eth Jacob is an incredible place for teens. Each year is jam-packed full of high quality and Bexciting trips and programming. From our Dor L’Dor parent-teen learning program, weekly Teen Minyan, BILU and chesed opportunities, to our Clippers games, paintball, fantasy football competitions, and our very first San Diego Shabbaton, at Beth Jacob, there is something for everyone! I want to highlight a few new programs that will be coming up this year.

Teen Initiative Contest: Just after Sukkot, we will be having an exciting city-wide competition which will give teenagers a voice and an audience to make real change that will strengthen our community through chesed, Israel activism, or community life. Without giving more away, this is Teen Rabbi something you don’t want to miss! Zach Swigard Monthly Teen Divrei Torah: Each month a different teen will prepare a D’var Torah to present to our Teen Minyan, which will further their leadership abilities and public speaking skills.

Teen Board: This year we will be establishing our very first official Teen Board. The Teen Board will meet once a month and will be empowered to create new programming, and bring fresh new ideas to our shul.

San Diego Shabbaton: On December 25-27, we will be going to San Diego for our first ever Teen Minyan Shabbaton! The Shabbaton will prove to be extremely memorable, inspiring, and of course, fun!

On Shabbat, December 19, our teens will be taking over the main shul, “Beth Jacob teen Teen Minyan Takeover: where they will lead the davening and leining and will even take part in the sermon. trips are always a blast. There isn’t Nosh and Drash: A once-a-month Teen Minyan learning program with plenty of nosh that will a moment I can take place before Shabbat morning Tefilah. remember that my friends and I weren’t Chanukah Chopped: This Chanukah, show off your cooking skills with our first ever having a great time!” Chopped competition! - Daniel Kohanbash, 10th grade, Beverly Teen Lounge: We are looking into creating our first ever Teen lounge in the shul. If you would Hills High School like to get involved with this initiative or are interested in sponsoring, please be in contact.

To find out more about our teen programming, please contact [email protected] and/or find and friend Beth Jacob Teens on Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat. Hope to hear from you soon! “The Beth Jacob teen minyan provides a comfortable atmosphere for me to daven, hang out with friends, and connect to my spiritual side” - Ben Maryamian, 12th grade, YULA 18 2015 TEEN CALENDAR 2016 September January Sunday 9/6: Fantasy Football Draft Shabbat, 1/9: Nosh and Drash Shabbat, 9/12: Nosh and Drash Shabbat, 1/9: 7th Grade Shabbaton Sunday-Tuesday, 9/13-9/15: Rosh Hashanah Teen Minyan Sunday, 1/17: Dor L’Dor Tuesday-Wednesday, 9/22-9/23: Yom Kippur Teen Minyan Sunday, 1/17: SpeedZone Sunday, 9/20: Sukkah Decorating Date TBD: Teen Rosh Hashanah University February Friday, 2/5: 9th Grade Oneg Shabbat, 2/6: Nosh and Drash October Sunday, 2/7: Pizza and Bowling Thursday, 10/1: 7th and 8th Grade Sukkot Sushi Party Shabbat, 2/20: Parent/Teen Minyan Shabbat, 10/10: Nosh and Drash Sunday, 10/11: Dor L’Dor March Monday, 10/12: Jewish Teen Initiative Contest Shabbat, 3/5: Nosh and Drash Friday, 10/16: 12th Grade Oneg Sunday, 3/6: Dor L’Dor Sunday, 10/18: Paintball Trip Friday, 3/11: 12th Grade Oneg Shabbat, 10/31: Teen Minyan Lunch Sunday, 3/20: Teen AIPAC Policy Conference Trip Sunday, 3/27: Dor L’Dor Date TBD: Teen AIPAC Shabbaton November Sunday, 11/1: Dor L’Dor April Shabbat, 11/7: Nosh and Drash Shabbat, 4/2: Nosh and Drash Sunday, 11/22: Dor L’Dor Sunday, 4/10: Dor L’Dor Sunday, 11/22: Flag Football Game TBD: Yachad Inclusion Shabbaton Date TBD: Clippers Game TBD: Israeli Soldier Stories-Stand With Us May December Shabbat, 5/7: Nosh and Drash Friday, 12/4: 10th/11th Grade Oneg Sunday, 5/8: Dor L’Dor Shabbat, 12/5: Nosh and Drash Friday, 5/20: 10/11th Grade Oneg Thursday, 12/10: Chanukah Chopped Competition Sunday, 5/22: Dor L’Dor Shabbat, 12/19: Teen Minyan Takeover TBD: Clippers Playoff Game Friday-Sunday, 12/25-12/27: Teen San Diego Shabbaton Sunday, 12/27: Dor L’Dor Date TBD: Kings Game June Shabbat, 6/4: Nosh and Drash Sunday, 6/5: Teen Leadership Award Motzei Shabbat, 6/11: Shavuot Unity Program Sunday, 6/12: Shavuot Teen Unity Minyan

19 BILU Program for High School Students

Thursday Evenings, 5:30 - 7:30 pm

BILU is a high school program for Jewish public school students who would like to develop a Jewish connection. The reality is that countless young Jewish adults are spending the most formative years of their lives without access and exposure to Judaism, Zionism and most importantly, without fully developing a proud and strong Jewish identity. Our goal is to teach Judaism in a positive, relevant, and meaningful way. We offer high-quality, dynamic, and interesting courses to keep Jewish teens connected and offer a critical social outlet for them to meet others their age. This year, we are proud to announce that NCSY will be partnering with BILU. We are very excited to continue to grow and service the needs of our community together! BILU Calendar “BILU is like family to me. I love learning Regular Class Dates about my Jewish culture along with amazing September 10, 17; October 22, 29; November 5, 19; food from Jeff’s. I have made new friends at December 3; January 14, 21; February 4, 18, 25; BILU that I can never replace with anything.” March 3, 17, 31; April 7; May 5 - Liz Feldman, 12th grade, Fairfax High BILU Chesed Days October 15, November 12, January 14, February 11, March 10, April 14, May 12 “The memories I’ve had at BILU will truly last me a lifetime along with the Events & Outings knowledge I got from the fun classes. Opening Night Scavenger Hunt, Thursday, September 3 The laughs I had with Rabbi Swigard Paintball Trip, Sunday, October 18 and the delicious food they bring for Flag Football and Pizza, Sunday, November 22 dinner made this an amazing experience Chanukah Chopped Competition, Thursday, December 10 I’ll never forget!” Trip to SpeedZone, Sunday, January 17 - Nathan Monesa, 12th grade, Yom Haatzmaut, Thursday, May 12 Santa Monica High School BBQ Award Ceremony, Thursday, May 19 20 Sundays, 10:00 am to 11:30 am Bnai Mitzvah October 18, 25 November 1, 8, 22 December 6, 20 We invite you and your daughter to Beth Jacob’s January 3, 10, 17

Torat Imecha At Beth Jacob, in the Ives Youth Lounge. Tuition for each mother- Bat Mitzvah Program daughter pair is $100 (members); Led by Rebbetzin Jordana Topp $150 (non-members).

Mothers and daughters: bond, have fun and learn together To register, or for more information: as you prepare to celebrate your milestone! 310.278.1911 • [email protected] bethjacob.org/batmitzvah In ten sessions, 5th and 6th grade girls study the extraordinary impact of Jewish women throughout the ages, from matriarchs to modern day leaders. This fun-filled, hands-on meaningful seminar connects bat mitzvah girls and their mothers to the chain across the generations through text study, dance, drama, art or music. “The program gave us the time to step away from the party planning and learn the meaning of what we’re doing it all for.” - Dr. Gilat Englanoff

Beth Jacob Presents All You Ever Wanted to Know About Becoming A Bar Mitzvah Sunday Mornings, Dates TBD

A series of three seminars for pre and post bar mitzvah boys and their parents. Given by Rabbi Topp and Rabbi Posy. Learn about Tefilin, Torah and the life of a Jewish man in an interactive, fun, relaxed environment.

Free of charge. For more information, If you are looking for a Bar Mitzvah tutor, or to register, please contact please contact Cantor Arik Wollheim at [email protected]. [email protected]. 21 Beth Jacob Stands Proudly with Israel Community Projects

Preventing a Nuclear Iran Beth Jacob Advanced Beth Jacob members Ambulance for Israel have spoken out in force Beth Jacob has dedicated against the proposed Iran an Advanced Magen David Nuclear Deal, set to come Adom Ambulance for to a vote before the US Israel in memory of Naftali Congress in mid September, Fraenkel, Gilad Shaer, and 2015. Through rallies, Eyal Yifrach,Hy”d. Amid our grief over the kidnapping and special briefings, debates murder of the three boys, our community raised $100,000 to and emails packed with purchase the ambulance, which is now saving lives in Israel. information, Beth Jacob has From a letter from Bat Galim and Ophir Shaer: provided up-to-the-minute news on the ramifications How we are moved by this deep inner need everyone has of the deal and the political to envelope us with love, thus telling us, “We are with you! approval process. Our members have heeded the With you in hope, with you in faith, with you in your pain!” call to action, flooding the offices of our senators and We didn’t choose the road, but we met good people on representatives with phone calls, emails and messages the way. Very good people. One of them was you. urging them to vote against the deal, and in favor of long term security for both the United States and Israel. Thank you, Ofir and Bat Galim Shaer Beth Jacob Wounded Israeli Soldiers Fund 66 Israeli soldiers were killed in the Kiryat Malachi Bomb Shelters course of last summer’s Operation Beth Jacob members Protective Edge, with 500 raised $100,000 and wounded, many requiring extended constructed two hospitalization and care. As a way stand-alone bomb of expressing appreciation to those shelters in Kiryat who have sacrificed so much, Malachi, which were Beth Jacob has raised $85,000 completed in 2014. to provide financial support for They immediately wounded soldiers and their families. To make a donation, went to use during please email [email protected] or call 310.278.1911. We Kiryat Malachi residents pose in the Golan Street last summer’s bomb shelter constructed by Beth Jacob. thank Aviva and Isaac Tivon for spearheading this fund. Operation Protective Edge, protecting hundreds of citizens from the barrage of Shabbat with Chief Rabbi David Lau rockets attacks from Gaza. The shelters also serve as January 9-11, 2015, was an peacetime community centers when not needed for historic weekend at Beth Jacob, emergency protection. as we were privileged to host Israel’s Chief Rabbi David Lau, Katzrin Torah Program who used his time here to visit and We are helping to bring dialogue with diverse communities Jewish tradition to life throughout southern California. for secular residents The highlights of his time at Beth of Katzrin through an Jacob were an inspiring Shabbat ongoing partnership morning drasha and gala lunch, as with Ohr Torah Stone’s well as a Saturday night town hall Yachad Program. The meeting with Rabbi Topp, where program caters to the he answered questions on a host religious needs of city of contemporary Israeli issues, including proposed residents through classes, events and Shabbat, holiday reforms for the rabbinate, conversion, and army service and life-cycle celebrations that showcase the depth and for chareidim. relevance of Judaism.

22 Beth Jacob Stands Proudly with Israel

AIPAC members lobby our elected representatives on behalf of Israel, both at the Annual Policy Conference in Washington DC, and throughout the year. Through passionate political activism, we ensure that our voices are heard in the halls of government on a host of issues affecting the security of Israel AIPAC and the United States. Policy Conference We are so proud that over 70 Beth Jacob members attended the AIPAC Policy Conference in March, 2015 and hope to top that number for 2016! Please join Rabbi Topp, Jess Dolgin, Jack Fenigstein, and fellow Beth Jacob members for three of the most important days affecting Israel’s future, March 20-22 in Washington DC. If you’ve never been before, trust us, it will be worth every minute. Register today by calling 323-937-1184 and request the Beth Jacob discount. - Samantha Garelick, Chair, AIPAC Committee

Friends of Israel Committee The Friends of Israel Committee was created by Beth Jacob members to secure bipartisan support for Israel in the US Senate and House of Representatives. Through regular meetings with both elected senators and congressmen and candidates for political office, the committee fosters understanding of the issues most important to Israel among those who have the power to make a difference. Involvement in the Friends of Israel Committee allows members to advocate for Israel in a forum that leads to proven results in Congress, and to stay informed on the political process in real time. The committee has hosted Senator Susan Collins, R-Maine, To request more information on our Congressman Paul Cook, R- California, Senator Paul Ryan, R-Wisconsin, and Congressman Eliot Engel, D-NY, among others. Friends of Israel Committee, please contact Marc Rohatiner or email [email protected]. 23 Resources & Opportunities

at Beth Jacob! Tuesday Nights 7:00 pm in Bayer Hall Fall series dates: Women of all ages welcome! October 20, 27; November 10, 17, 24; $10 per class for 10 class series; December 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 $15 drop-ins

For more information, or to sign up, please contact Melissa Gruenfeld at (424) 666-8167 or [email protected]

Ezra Network Providing Social Services at Beth Jacob

Beth Jacob is part of this Los Angeles-wide program of The Jewish Federation, through which the Jewish Family Service of Los Angeles (JFS) brings social services into the synagogue every Tuesday, during business hours. The following programs and services will now be available at Beth Jacob, in private and free of charge: • Learning about governmental financial assistance and government program eligibility. • Access to one-on-one sessions with a JFS social worker, Beit Tzedek legal counselor or Jewish Vocational Service job counselor • Referrals for other services and information about upcoming workshops.

To set up an appointment or speak with one of the Ezra Network professionals today, contact: Rochelle Shapiro, Social Worker: (323) 229-0235 Liz Mohler, Job Counselor: (323) 761-8888 ext. 8998 Emily Carroll, Legal Counselor: (323) 549-5827 For more information, please visit jewishla.org/pages/ezra-network/

24 Summer Learning

Attention high school & college students! Home for summer break? Make time for Torah at Beth Jacob’s Summer Kollel Monday - Thursday Evenings, 7:00 to 9:30 pm June 27-July 28, 2016 Attention community members! Interested in learning Torah? We’ll match you up with one of our Kollel members. Learn one on one with your friends, engage in lively group discussion, and explore the Torah topic of your choice! Our Summer Kollel scholars are young men and women from our community who have set aside their evenings to learn and partner with you.

“Having the opportunity to experience many different Learning geared for parents & sons every Monday evening, types of learning has made me even more excited and for parents & daughters every Wednesday evening. and prepared for my upcoming year in Israel” - Sarah Lipman For info: [email protected]

“Beth Jacob Kollel was a great experience that uniquely allowed me to both learn b’chavruta “My daughter Bella and her friends had a great time learning in Summer and also gave me the opportunities to share Kollel! The girls who led the learning are so much fun and I imagine are a Torah and speak publicly.” big part of why they kept coming back. Thank you to everyone involved!” - Moshe Willner, Kollel member - Shannon Ferszt

Take advantage of the Long Shabbat Afternoon at Beth Jacob’s

Perek on the Lawn ASummer summertime series 2016 of intriguing Pirkei Avot based shiurim given by our own Beth Jacob rabbis and community members. Each shiur takes place outdoors, at a private residence. Learn, connect with friends, and see Pirkei Avot in a new light.

Stay tuned for the full lineup!

25 Lifecycle Events

Celebrate Your Special Occasion at Beth Jacob

Celebrate your special event at Beth Jacob, where you will find various plans and options to suit your needs and budget. Our campus offers multiple halls and catering options for your small wedding, Bar or Bat Mitzvah, birthday party or celebratory lunch or dinner. You will also find rabbinic guidance to prepare your mind and spirit for every milestone.

Our Facilities: Bayer Hall: Seats up to 175. Eisenstat Hall: Seats up to 100. Jacob’s Garden: Seats up to 300 and includes state-of-the-art playground.

Caterers We offer catering from: Elegant Event • (310) 678-7602 Pat’s • (310) 205-8707 Catering by Brenda • (310) 203-8365 Schwartz Bakery • (310) 854-0592 For more information, or to book your event, please call 310-278-1911.

26 Holidays, Commemorations & Celebrations

Rosh Hashanah Sunday evening, September 13 - An unforgettable High Tuesday, September 15 Holiday experience with Rabbi Topp, Chazan Arik Yom Kippur & the Maccabeats in Tuesday evening, September 22 & Shapell Sanctuary! Wednesday, September 23 Sukkot Yom Tov: Sunday evening, September 27 - Tuesday, September 29 Chol Hamoed: Wednesday, September 30 - Sunday, October 4 Shmini Atzeret Sunday evening, October 4 & Monday, October 5 Simchat Torah Monday evening, October 5 & Tuesday, October 6 Hakafot, followed by BBQ, Monday, 7:00 pm; Scholar in Residence Rabbi Menachem Leibtag will give several talks throughout the chag.

Chanukah Sunday evening, December 6 - Monday, December 14 Tu B’Shvat Monday, January 25 Family nature hike to take place Sunday, January 17 Harmony Shabbat March 12 A celebration of our diverse, dynamic & growing community as we gear up for our Tiferet Award Banquet. Purim Wednesday Evening, March 23 & Thursday, March 24 Megillah reading in Shapell Sanctuary, Wednesday, 8:00 pm; Purim Carnival, 8:45 pm; Late Megillah reading, 10:00 pm Pesach Friday evening, April 22 - Shabbat, April 30 Yom Hashoah Memorial Event Thursday, May 5 6:45 pm Memorial March from SWC to Beth Jacob; 7:30 pm Memorial program commences in Shapell Sanctuary Program sponsored by the David z”l and Fela Shapell Family Foundation Institute on the Shoah U’Gevurah of Yeshiva University. Yom Hazikaron Commemoration & Yom Ha’atzmaut Celebration Wednesday evening, May 11 Tefilah chagigit in Shapell Sanctuary, followed by celebration. A Bnei Akiva event. Shavuot Saturday night, June 11 - Monday, June 13 All-night shiurim on Saturday night, with an all-star line-up of outstanding Torah scholars. Tisha B’Av Sunday, August 14 Community service, kinnot & interactive learning program.

27 “Beth Jacob is so much more than a Shul, it’s an extended family where Rabbis are friends, congregants are our network and our family grows in Torah through love of our community.”

– Lisa Arnold

To learn more about our community, visit us at bethjacob.org, or even better, stop by in person!

Rabbi Kalman Topp, Senior Rabbi Rabbi Adir Posy, Associate Rabbi Rabbi Arye Sufrin, Assistant Rabbi Arik Wollheim, Cantor Allen Ishakis, Executive Director Rabbi Eli Broner, Youth Director Rabbi Zach Swigard, Teen Rabbi, BILU Director Jess Dolgin, President Jack Fenigstein, Chairman of the Board

Connected to the Past – Committed to the Future www.bethjacob.org 9030 W. Olympic Blvd., Beverly Hills • (310) 278-1911