Temple EmanHapupy -CEhanul kah ! Connections Adar-Nisan • V. 80 No. 6 March 2016
March Service Schedule Friday, March 4 6:15 PM Shabbatluck Dinner 7:00 PM Erev Shabbat Family Service with 2nd Grade and Bet Hebrew Friday, March 11 7:00 PM Erev Shabbat Service Saturday, March 12 9:00 AM Baby Shabbat See page 3 for more information 9:00 AM Shabbat Morning Minyan with Gimel Hebrew Class 10:00 AM Tea and Torah Friday, March 18 6:00 PM Tot Shabbat 6:30 PM Tot Shabbat Catered Dinner 7:00 PM Erev Shabbat Service featuring Hadassah Wednesday, March 23 Adultt Purim InIntntensivvee Sttudyudy SessioSe n 7:00 PM Adult Purim Intensive Study Session and Megillah Reading aandnd Megillah Reading Friday, March 25 tĞĚŶĞƐĚĂLJLJ͕͕DĂƌĐŚ Ϯϯ Ăƚ ϳ͗ϬϬ WD 6:30 PM Wine and Cheese Reception for ϭϬϭϬhŶŝǀĞƌƐŝƚLJ ǀĞ͘ ^ĂŶ :ŽƐĞ all Annual Campaign Donors 7:30 PM Rock Shabbat Service Saturday, March 26 9:00 AM Shabbat Morning Minyan ŶũŽLJĂ ƌĞĂůůLJďŝŐ ;ĂŶĚ ǁĞ ŵĞĂŶ ,h' Ϳ͕ ǀĞƌLJ ŝŶƚĞŶƐĞ͕ ĂŶĚ ƐƵƉĞƌ ĚĞĞƉƐƚƵĚLJ ƐĞƐƐŝŽŶ ĨŽƌ ĂĚƵůƚƐ ŽŶůLJ ǁŝƚŚ ZĂďďŝ ^ĐŚŶŝƚnjĞů ĂŶĚ ĂŶƚŽƌ Temple Emanu-El Security Updates ,ƵŵŵƵƐ͘ DĞŐŝůůĂŚƌĞĂĚŝŶŐ ǁŝůů ŚĂƉƉĞŶ ƐŽ ďĞ ƉƌĞƉĂƌĞĚ ƚŽ ĐŚĞĞƌƌ͕͕ ͕ĂŶĚ ŚĂǀĞ ĨƵŶ͊ ŽƐƚƵŵĞƐ ĂƌĞĞŶĐŽƵƌĂŐĞĚ͊ ŶũŽLJ ƉŝnjnjĂ ĂŶĚ • Our doors will open 30 minutes before services ŚĂŵĂŶƚĂƐŚĞŶ͘ƌŝŶŐ LJŽƵƌ ŽǁŶ ǁŝŶĞ͊ on Friday nights and will close 10 minutes after Z^sWƚŽ ĂĚŵŝŶΛƚĞŵƉůĞƐĂŶũŽƐĞ͘ŽƌŐ͘ the service starts. If you arrive late, please call /ŶƚĞƌĞƐƚĞĚŝŶ ƌĞĂĚŝŶŐ Ă ƉĂƌƚ͍ ŽŶƚĂĐƚ ĂŶƚŽƌ ^ŝŵĞƌůLJ Ăƚ the Custodian Cell Phone to be let in. ŵĞĞŬĂŶƚŽƌΛƚĞŵƉůĞƐĂŶũŽƐĞ͘ŽƌŐ͘ • If you are attending an event at Temple, please be sure to close doors behind you and not leave doors propped open. Mishloach Manot Exchange • The preschool and religious school facilities are A Fundraiser for the 2016 Confirmation Class ONLY to be used when a staff member is Order deadline: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 present. Please do not allow children to play on See page 8 for additio- nal information. the equipment during meetings, services, or other times. 1010 University Ave., San Jose, CA 95126 | 408-292-0939 facebook.com/templesanjose | twitter.com/templesanjose • The Temple Custodian on-site can be reached [email protected] at 408-797-4564 if you need to be let in to the building. www.templesanjose.org Connections
But truth be told there is not one view, one way that a Jew should be thinking when it comes to this deal. The only thing that should be one is our peoplehood! I was saddened to see how the arguments were made so simple when the issues are so multi-layered and complex. I thought we initially missed our chance to have true dialogue about the issues until our Jewish community gave everyone an opportunity to hear two views while feeling our unity as a people. But that was one occasion. What upsets me the most is the idea that if you are not on my side you are wrong and you are against us. It just creates divisiveness, and we are not such a large people, so divisiveness looks terrible. Where as being a people with multi views and demonstrating respect of each view makes us look great. My friends, we have been through a lot as a people. And I for one believe in Israel’s ability to defend itself. So when we make absolutes and say Israel will not survive this deal… that is not cool. It is manipulative and it is not true. Honest, truthful conversation is what we have needed because our focus should be on what happens after the deal is done. We have to work with all sides to make things move forward. Why would we want to demonize another position because we don’t agree with it? Words From the Rabbi That is not good, healthy dialogue and that is what we need more than anything else. As I write this article, I am preparing to lead my fourth I appreciate our movement’s official position because it attempts to broaden the Temple Israel Trip. As you read this, I will be on my way discussion while at the same time acknowledging the key issues on both sides. So too home from leading that trip and from attending the Annual there is no demonizing another or making statements that are black and white. It states Convention of the Central Conference of American Rabbis. the following: Every seven years our convention is in the State of Israel Our tradition teaches us never to wage war without first seeking vigorously the and I look forward to sharing with you at the March Lunch & possibility of peace (Deut. 20:10). In that spirit, we applaud the diplomatic efforts of the Learn session and in a consequent Connections article Obama Administration to keep Iran from acquiring or developing nuclear weapons. We some of what I experienced. thank President Obama for his commitment to diplomacy, and we express our gratitude to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu for keeping the world focused on the danger posed On Yom Kippur day I shared a sermon titled “Two Views, by Iran. The end product of the Administration’s diplomatic efforts – the Joint One People.” The following is that sermon. Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) – is challenging to analyze. Some argue that it offers the most promising path forward to prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear state. There are so many good Jewish lines. Others argue that while the agreement has serious flaws, the consequences of rejecting it Thanks, Jeff Applebaum for the material. create far more perils and damage than implementing it would. Still others argue that it does not do enough to prevent and/or contain the danger that a nuclear Iran would Define: Genius. A “C” student with a Jewish mother. pose. We recognize that these arguments have merit: The JCPOA does present a way forward, there are real dangers to rejecting it, and it does not foreclose Iran’s ability to Did you hear about the Jewish ATM? become a nuclear weapons threshold state. The Reform Movement is large and diverse. When you take out some money, it says to you, what did you do with the last $50 I gave you? continued on page 9 The Italian says, “I’m tired and thirsty. I must have wine.” The Russian says, “I’m tired and thirsty. I must have vodka.” The Jew says, “I’m tired and thirsty. I must have diabetes.” And of course the classic… 2 Jews in the room, 3 opinions. It is our nature to express ourselves. I for one feel great passion for many things and for many views. I have often expressed my passionate views in ways that make it seem there is only one way to believe, and with some issues I do think it is very black and white. Especially when it comes to behavior. We should act a certain way in certain situations. We get angry, we use words not fists. Actually as I think of some of them, it makes me feel we are in our preschool as those are the rules we teach them. Kevod, respect of everyone and everyone’s things. In years past I would have no problem standing here and telling you my view on the Iran deal. But I am not going to do that. Not that I don’t have one, and not that my opinion doesn’t matter, in fact, at the sermon discussion we could talk about it. But, because I think you have been as inundated as I have with so much opinion about the Iran deal. So many Jewish organizations pushing their view. In fact, it got worse and worse as the days went on. I understand it is a passionate issue for everyone who cares.
2 Connections From the President By the time you’re reading this class was leading the service and the 6 th graders (including we’re either in the throes of the my daughter) performed a Mel Brooks-esque play (written by predicted (dreaded?) mega El Niño their teacher – maybe you know her?) with a unique take on or the forecasts have gone awry some familiar stories from the Tanach, the Jewish bible. The and we have to make due with kids loved doing it, the audience was howling with laughter, plain old California winter weather and I can’t remember more fun happening in our sanctuary – (a dribble here and there – just the well, maybe our yearly Purim Shpiel comes close. Here they way we like it….). Will this year be were, our young, up and coming community members, with a different from others, or??? As I unique, fun, perspective on our oldest stories. Something mention that, I have to laugh to different, something fun, something Jewish. It’s been 25 myself a little. I was at a years since Rick’s article and it might as well have been 150 – Brotherhood meeting about 6 months ago and Mort Berlant the Temple is now, as then, providing that unique, safe, open, gave me a bunch of old Temple materials including a vintage and accepting forum for Jews, our members and friends, to Connections issue from June 1991. I was immediately sucked find their own way through our shared history. We now live in out of paying attention at the meeting and into a time a different, changing, perhaps more polarized world than in capsule of Temple Emanu-El, circa, early 1990’s. Granted, this 1991, and our approaches to being Jewish may be a little trip back in time was not 100 years ago, but 25 years ago is different, but our community is still here, growing and significant too. I know I was a somewhat different person 25 learning with eyes to the future. I’d say we’re still the years ago – most of us were, no? For me in 1991, the fortunate ones. That’s the same. prospect of turning 30 was looming – oh no….. I had some Oh, and Rick also mentioned that in June of 1991 he was uncertainty facing me, to be sure (but my mother’s biggest glad the area finally got some much needed rain. That concern at the time was me turning 30 and not being sounds familiar too… married yet – have we heard this story before??). But Andrew Weinberg enough about me, what about the Temple – was it that different then as well??? From Mort’s vintage Connections issue the Temple seemed fairly familiar in 1991. Temple events were publicized, B’nai Mitzvahs announced, who gave what to what fund, etc.,. There was a nice column each by the Rabbi, Sisterhood Pres, Temple Educator, and other Temple dignitaries. The message from then Temple president Rick Davis (someone I met just a few years ago through Temple and consider a friend) was focused high above the daily/weekly clutter. (I hadn’t remembered until reading the issue that the country had just come out of the first Gulf War against Iraq, a conflict that spooked more than a few Jews for how close it was to Israel). His article focused on reminding congregants how lucky they were to be both here in their own country, in their own community, and with little worry. We have, he wrote, the advantage of a great way of life, all the while given the free hand to pursue, enjoy, and enrich our lives through our common Jewish heritage, without significant risk or conflict. Rick’s message was a simple, succinct reminder that despite all of their perceived problems, Temple Emanu-El members were the fortunate ones. His exact words (and the title of the article): “We should be thankful”. I read that issue several months ago and it’s been stuck in my head since. The daily hustle has a way of back-burnering bigger thoughts or observations, but just last week (early February) when I was at Temple for a Family Shabbat service, a connection clicked. Our Religious School B’nai Mitzvah
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Membership Adult Education at the Highlights/Happenings Jewish Community Center Looking for Jewish education for adults? Here’s what’s coming up at Larry Gerston has written a dozen academic texts the Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center of Silicon Valley. For as a professor at San Jose State University. He has more classes, visit www.SiliconValleyJCC.org/jplace. covered more than his share of political events as the Dinner with Author Bruce Kaplan political analyst at NBC Bay Area. But Larry Gerston Thursday, February 25th at 7:00 PM has gone in an entirely new direction with his newest Kaplan, cartoonist for the New Yorker and writer for Girls, speaks about his project, The Road to Hana . new, darkly humorous memoir, I Was a Child. Cost is $25 (just $18 for Written for children between APJCC members), and includes dinner with the author and a copy of the the ages of 6 and 10, The book. RSVP to [email protected]. Road to Hana focuses on the Rambam Roundtable This is a free, drop-in class, no need to register. value of the journey over the Every Wednesday, 9:00 - 10:30 AM destination. The hero, Gia Study Rambam (Maimonides) with Rabbi Hugh Seid-Valencia. No Gabriella (Larry’s experience necessary. This is a free, drop-in class. You can attend granddaughter), helps her anytime, even if you haven’t attended this class before. uncle and aunt appreciate the benefits of living in the moment. The book is filled with more than 30 original Hasidic Havurah This is a free, drop-in class, no need to register. illustrations that complement a captivating narrative. Every Thursday, 11:00 AM - 12:00 noon It’s tailor-made for Silicon Valley, where so many of us Take a look at some of the great works of past Hasidic teachers and strive are caught up in getting from “here” to “there” toward deepening our contemporary Jewish spirituality, with Rabbi Hugh Seid-Valencia. No experience necessary. This is a free, drop-in class. You without appreciating everything in between the can attend anytime, even if you haven’t attended this class before. beginning and end of our daily activities. The Addison-Penzak JCC is located at 14855 Oka Road, Los Gatos. For more information about The Road to Hana , For more information or to register for classes, contact the JCC’s Center contact Larry Gerston at 408-656-1018, visit his for Jewish Life and Learning at (408) 357-7411 or visit the website at website larrygerston.com, or go to Amazon.com. www.apjcc.org/JPlace. Ritual Committee
In this month’s Connections article, From the experience I came to the All the great Shabbat prayers done in a since I am on the Ritual Committee, I will realization there is oneness. Adonai is contemporary rock style - how could share my personal rituals with you. ONE. I am not going to tell you how I you not get excited. The Shema is considered the most know this, you can email me and we Now it’s 5:30 PM, I shut down the PC – important prayer in Judaism and for can go for coffee to discuss. and immediately light Shabbat candles. some a twice a day ritual. I went into the ceremony armed with I kiss each doggie and one kitty on the Shehechyanu, Shema and Echad. I head wishing them Good Shabbos, and think I recited Shema 600 times, that start my Shabbat beautification process. Sh’ma, Hear O’Israel Adonai is our God, Sunday. I carefully plan my Shabbat outfit, and Adonai is ONE. Now that you know I have my daily accessories, take extra time to fix my For a couple of months now, I’ve started Shema ritual, let me tell you about my hair, makeup etc. reciting the Shema, as part of my daily Shabbat ritual. The next thing I know it’s 6:45 PM, ritual. I do not have a set time, but it Friday, morning, delighted it’s Friday, I place the Shabbat Candles in the sink. comes to me sometime before 9:00 AM the week behind me and 48 hours all I jump in my car, JRR is playing on my daily. mine! iPhone. Several months ago I participated in a The day goes by fast and it’s suddenly 7:05 PM – I arrive at Temple Emanu-El spiritual ceremony and following the 3:00 PM – my doggies and I know and enter the sanctuary, and submerge event, the Shema has become part of it’s time for Jewish Rock Radio into my favorite ritual of all – being in my daily ritual without thought, it just (jewishrockradio.com): Shabbat rock Temple Emanu-El for Shabbat. comes to me. music fills the house. Lori Rush
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Religious School Here are clues to the following riddle: a week. But on Adar 14 we party in the streets like it’s Mardi Gras. Significance: Remembers the defeat of a plot to exterminate the Jews For all the joy on this holiday, Jewish custom tells us that we Observances: Public reading of a book while “blotting cannot fully enjoy the day without remembering those less out” the villain’s name fortunate that ourselves. Therefore, we are commanded to send out gifts of food and drink, and to make gifts to charity. Length: 1 day The sending of gifts of food and drink is referred to as Customs: Costume parties; drinking; eating fruit-filled Mishloach Manot (lit. sending out portions). It is always the triangular cookies balance that we Jews keep in order to make the world a What am I? Hopefully you answered the Jewish holiday of better place. Purim. If so, you won a lifetime supply of hamentaschen from Finally, it is also customary to hold carnival-like celebrations Costco. What significance does this holiday hold on the on Purim, to perform plays and parodies, and to hold beauty Jewish calendar? Purim is one of the most joyous and fun contests. To this end, Temple Emanu-El will be holding its holidays as it commemorates a time when the Jewish annual Purim festivities, beginning on Sunday morning people were saved from extermination. But why all the March 20, with our Annual Purim Shpiel and Carnival at revelry and hoopla? Because we are commanded to “eat, 11:00 AM (There is still Hebrew class from 9:00 AM-10:00 AM drink, and be merry.” We are commanded to boo and hiss and Judaic Studies from 10:15 AM- 11:00 AM). Then, on and attempt to blot out the name of Haman at his very Wednesday evening March 23, the Rabbi and Cantor will be mention during the public reading of the Scroll of Esther. And holding its Adult Intensive Study Session according to the Talmud, we are required to drink until we and Megillah Reading at 7:00 PM. cannot tell the difference between “cursed be Haman” and “blessed be Mordecai” (though opinions differ as to exactly Bottom line is Purim week is coming and how drunk that is). When else can you come to Temple you should be ready to “eat, drink, and be drunk and be loud and obnoxious and dress up in costume? merry,” and to dress up as your favorite I love this holiday because of its irreverent nature. The High Purim character. Holidays are solemn and reflective, Passover has its dietary Chag Purim Samech!! restrictions, and Sukkot makes us eat and sleep outside for Phil Hankin, Director of Education
EESY Presents... What: Enjoy a night filled with games, gambling, and giggles! There will be tons of casino games, good Scout Shabbat food, and poppin’ music! We are pleased to announce the date Who: for Scout Shabbat in 2016. Temple All Jewish teens 8-12th grade Emanu-El’s connection with the When: Scouting movement remains strong, and once a year, scouts from the Saturday, March 19 from Congregation and around the South 6-10pm Bay are invited to attend a Shabbat Where: service, coming in uniform. Temple Emanu-El (1010 University Ave. San Jose, CA 95126) Please join us on Friday, April 1 at 7:00 Cost: PM as we welcome the Sabbath with $5.00 for members and $10.00 non-members our scouts. RSVP: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1-ACyvl-T74vziQ781MyTLgHaN1ENuIuIDOhK6Ok4w/edit?usp=drive_web
5 Connections Hadassah Shabbat For many years, Temple Emanu-El was infrastructure existed. Since that time, the place for the San Jose Chapter of the Hadassah has remained unwavering Hadassah women to meet, learn about in its commitment to women’s health and Hadassah, make plans to support well-being, to Israel, and to Jewish Hadassah’s major projects, and to values and continuity. But while grandly entertain the women of San Hadassah’s heritage and mission remain 1941-42 Mrs. Al Schraffel Jose. Many Temple members were in as strong as ever, the role of women and 1942-43 Marie Langendorf leadership positions, and for some, Jewish culture here and in Israel, has 1943-44 Sonya Strauss Hadassah became the training ground evolved over time. The organization, too, 1944-46 Mrs. Max Gaines for future leadership roles. has evolved, taking on new challenges 1946-48 Mrs. Kenneth Lee and developing new programs. 1948-50 Bess Mandel Temple will host Hadassah on Friday, 1950-52 Evelyn Hammer Loth March 18, with services starting at 7:00 Hadassah believes in building a world 1952-54 Geraldine Witkin PM. Members of the former San Jose where our Jewish values in action create 1954-56 Celia Beck chapter will be joined by members of the strong community and an enduring 1956-58 Mrs. Michael Garetz local Sharone and Villages chapters to Israel. That’s why our entire focus is on 1958-60 Helen Zimmerman participate in our Shabbat services. We connecting and empowering Jewish 1960-62 Rose Jacobs will honor the past glory of Temple women to effect change. We’ve done 1962-64 Barbara Shapero Emanu-El as a Hadassah supporter, as this for over 100 years and we will do it 1964-65 Pearl Rosenthal well as its present and future in our for the next 100—advancing health and 1965-67 Pat Ratner region. well-being, advocating for women, and 1967-69 Corinne Ravel Retchin building community in the US and Israel. Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist 1969-71 Janet Berg We invite all Jewish women to join in—to Organization of America, is a volunteer 1971-73 Faye Veta put their values into action with us and organization that inspires a passion for 1973-75 Judi Witkin Singer through our programs. and commitment to its partnership with 1975-77 Joan Zimmerman the land and people of Israel. It San Jose Hadassah was the first chapter 1977-79 Barbara Goldstein enhances the health of people in the South Bay. Its leadership fell under 1979-81 Miriam Atlas worldwide through its support of medical the watchful eyes of many strong 1981-83 Sarah Joelson care and research at the Hadassah Temple Emanu-El members and others 1983-85 Ilene Schwartz Medical Organization in Jerusalem. from the community. Evelyn Hammer 1985-86 Loretta Sills Hadassah empowers its members and Loth served as the chapter’s first 1986-88 Rochelle Greenfield supporters, as well as youth in Israel and president in 1928. Many of you will 1988-90 Beverly Hirsch America through opportunities for remember names of all San Jose 1990-92 Janette Kaufman personal growth, education, advocacy, chapter presidents: If you would like to bake for the Oneg and Jewish continuity. 1928-29 Evelyn Hammer Loth following services, please contact Bette Hadassah was founded over a century 1929-31 Mrs. Max Bloom Emanuel at (408) 622-8565 or ago, before Israel was a state, and 1931-34 Sarah Richards Paradise [email protected]. For additional before women could vote. Henrietta 1934-35 Minnie Lackner information, contact Deborah Zimmer at Szold encouraged her study group at 1935-36 Mrs. Louis Leven [email protected] or (408) 425-7120 Temple Emanu-El in New York City to 1936-37 Sarah Richards Paradise Please join us for this memory-laden send three nurses to Palestine, the 1937-38 Debra Leven service and as we welcome Hadassah fledgling nation that would become 1938-39 Anna Rosenthal members to Temple Emanu-El to mark Israel. There they would establish 1939-40 Minnie Lackner Hadassah Shabbat on March 18. modern health care where no 1940-41 Debra Leven Jane Jacobson Save the Date and Join Rabbi Magat for an Adult Education Course on Death and Dying Sessions: April 3, April 24, May 1 at 11:30 AM This course will investigate Traditional and Reform Jewish practices, customs, and concepts surround ing death. We will also discuss some of the important issues that surround bereavement and the grieving process. Finally, we will investigate some modern theories concerning the stages of grief. We will also spend time discussing life after death and how death relates to our beliefs.
6 Connections Sisterhood Brotherhood Blog Please join us in March for some Sisterhood events! January Join us to study Torah with Cantor and friends on March 12. Attend I know that a Blog is defined as a regularly Shabbat morning Minyan at 9:00 AM in the BFR and then gather for our updated website or web page, typically one Tea and Torah study session in the BFR. run by an individual or small group, that is written in an informal or conversa tional style. Purim is coming! Sisterhood members and Religious School families are I also know that most of you don’t care. invited to come together on Thursday, March 17 to bake hamantaschen However, remember that these articles are from 6:00-10:00 PM. Some of these treats will be distributed to students published by the Temple elec troni cally AND in class and the rest will be available for purchase at the Purim Carnival. if you would like to respond to something written here, feel free to do so. I will work Sisterhood is pleased to give parents of youngsters a night off from out an email link with the Temple. cooking. We will be serving dinner for families following Tot Shabbat January was a little slow for the Brothers. service on March 18 at 6:30 PM. Our big events included a Taco Bar for the Recognizing our diverse community, and as the last Sunday of March is congregation and participation in Mitzvah Easter, we want to be sensitive to those who may have obligations on this Day. Bob Levy served as Mitzvah Day MC day. We would like to change the date for this month’s Supper Club to while Philip Schwarz and others manned the Saturday, March 26 at 6:00 PM at Café Eden at 2 N 1st St. in San Jose. Goodwill donation truck. Mort Berlant led the This is a chance to dine with friends and enjoy good company and some effort to clean up nooks and crannies in the building. Word is that the team excavated yummy food. Please join us! some priceless artifacts dating back to the If you are a woman looking for a way to become involved in the Temple early days of Temple Emanu-El – A regular Emanu-El community, feel free to contact me. We would love to get to Indiana Jones. Thanks to the Rabbi for the know you and spend some time together. free coffee and espresso. Best regards, Melenie Pearson | Sisterhood President Upcoming events will include help with the 408.506.7253 | [email protected] ESSY Casino Night and a Paid Member Dinner (bring your significant other and if not Sisterhood is once again offering camperships to religious school students or a paid member, become one on the spot!) graduates whose mother or guardian is a Sisterhood member who participated To me, a significant byproduct of these in at least one Sisterhood event in the past year. The application deadline is April 2nd. Competed Applications which are available on the Temple’s website should activities was another chance for members be e-mailed or mailed to: Sandi Cohen at [email protected] or at 630 to share stories, tell jokes, trade recipes Oneida Drive, Sunnyvale, CA 94087. (really we are all about food), and give advice. Brotherhood members are never short on advice. What did you do about Sisterhood Upcoming Events your kids’ Bar/Bat Mitzvah? Where is a good 3/6 Sisterhood Potluck Meeting – 1:00 PM BFR place for pizza? Any interest in another 3/12 Tea & Torah – 9:00 AM BFR poker game? Be sure your kids participate in Birthright when they are old enough. One 3/17 Hamantaschen Baking – 6:00-10:00 PM Temple House could make the case that this is the 3/18 Tot Shabbat Dinner – 6:30 PM Temple House essence of Brotherhood. Come join us and 3/20 Purim Carnival / Hamantaschen Bake Sale share your experiences. 3/26 Sisterhood Supper Club – 6:00 PM Steve Wernick
s We Take Consignments! Oneg Sponsors w 2/5/16 – The families of the 6th and 7th grade e Do a mitzvah and get a bargain at the same time! Bring your gently worn classes in honor of their participation in tonight's
N fine jewelry and surplus Judaica to the gift shop on consignment. The gift service; Carol Hoffman, Kristina Fernandez and
p shop will consign your items for a 60/40% split. You get a greater variety of The Moreno Family in memory of David Lipton
o items to buy and clean out at the same time. Everyone wins, and 2/12/16 – Iva and Wayne Rose, Abraham Livchitz h Sisterhood gets to spend more on school, campership and Temple events.
S 2/19/16 – Bruce Frederick, Greg Turetzky,
t Bobi and Raymond Levine
f Please contact Lynda Chase (408) 505-7498 or email i [email protected] with the subject line: Gift Shop Consignment 2/26/16 – Kimberley Williams, Evann and G Michael Aronoff
7 Connections Stephanie’s Corner I did not find this world desolate when I entered it. What will your legacy be? My ancestors planted for me before I was born. The L’Dor V’Dor Legacy Society was So do I choose to plant for those who will come after me. created in 2014 to recognize Temple Babylonian Talmud, Ta'anit 23a members who have committed to ensure the continued existence and growth of our congregation by arranging for a planned Temple Endowment Fund when making your estate gift to the Temple Endowment Fund. We are very plans. pleased to report that since the inception of the L’Dor V’Dor Legacy Society, 32 member families have joined. For more information about planned giving, please contact the Temple administrative office and speak with Our Endowment Fund will allow our congregation to Stephanie Pollock, Temple Emanu- El Executive Director remain a vital part of our community for generations to or Joe Riggio, chair of the Endowment Committee. come. We hope that you will consider including the We will be happy to discuss this with you.
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One Mishloach Manot bag wiwillll be distributed per familyfamily,, along with a list of those who sent the greetings. Bags will be aYDLODEOHIRU SLFN XS DW WKH Shabbat Service on March 1818, at the Purim Carnival on March 2020, or at the Megillah reading on March 23.
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8 Connections Preschool We are growing!!! Thanks to the amazing support of Rabbi and the Board of Trustees, the Preschool is moving forward with an expansion. If all goes according to plan, we will open up a brand new classroom, The Little Ducklings, in the fall of 2016! This new room will be a 2 year old room and it will join our Little Stars, Bees, Monkeys, Parrot and Bear classrooms. When we opened back in 2001, our hope was to one day have a second room for our youngest friends, and we are all very excited to see that hope become a reality. We are very proud of our school and celebrate each and every moment! Please enjoy a few pictures from our world!! Barbara Smead
Words From the Rabbi … continued from page 2 Within the Movement, reasonable people — patriotic Americans and passionate Zionists suffer from Iran’s support for violence and terror, including the State of Israel. We have — have expressed different and valid positions on this agreement, articulating the many had numerous conversations with and briefings from experts on global security and arguments made by others as well. Our focus must be on two questions: First, how is it diplomacy, military experts from the U.S. and Israel, Republican and Democratic possible to address our concerns about the JCPOA? Second, if the agreement is elected officials, and Israeli political leaders from the left, center, and right. Those finalized, what happens the day after? Specifically, how can we work to support the extensive consultations leave us with five principal areas of concern: deterrence, Iran’s strongest possible U.S.-Israel relationship going forward? At this time, there is no unity support of terror, inspections, human rights and religious freedom, and the United of opinion among the Reform Movement leadership – lay and rabbinic alike – just as States’ standing in the world. Concerning deterrence the statement calls “on President there is not unity among our membership as to the JCPOA itself; but there is unity as to Obama to issue an unequivocal statement that at no point will the U.S. accept a nuclear- the important questions and concerns we pose in this statement. Thus, there is simply armed Iran. The Administration must state clearly that in the short term, and more no clarity that would support taking a position “for” or “against” the JCPOA itself. The important, 15 years from now when key provisions of the JCPOA expire, the U.S. will Vital Strategic Importance of the U.S.-Israel Alliance, the U.S.-Israel relationship, is of take no option off the table when it comes to preventing Iran from attaining nuclear historic and strategic importance. It is based on shared values and common concerns. weapons capability. We also call on the U.S. to provide Israel with the support necessary, The health of that relationship must never be jeopardized or allowed to become a including advanced weaponry and the means to deliver it, to further deter Iran, protect partisan political issue. Now, more than ever, it is critical to solidify the unique Israel’s security, and maintain Israel’s qualitative military edge. This could take the form relationship between the U.S. and Israel. The words of Israel’s President Reuven Rivlin of a new defense alliance between the U.S. and Israel similar to NATO. These steps are ring in our ears: “There are three tenets to Israeli foreign policy, which are the strategic necessary both because of the prospect of Iran developing or obtaining nuclear weapons, alliance with the United States, the strategic alliance with the United States, and the and the possibility of increased military activity in the region, which is an inherent and strategic alliance with the United States.” We are deeply concerned about the tension, likely consequence of the inevitable lifting of sanctions that any agreement containing and the harsh rhetoric, in the discourse between President Obama and Prime Minister Iran’s development of nuclear weapons would entail. Concerning Iran’s Support of Netanyahu. We fervently hope that both President Obama and Prime Minister Terror the statement continues: “Iran’s longstanding and persistent threats against Netanyahu will take concrete steps, transcending politics, to repair the rifts that impede Israel, the U.S. and others, as well as its record of support for international terror this relationship between longstanding and essential allies. We say this sincerely organizations including Hamas and Hezbollah, are not addressed by this agreement. believing that President Obama and Prime Minister Netanyahu are fully committed to We urge the Administration to work with our European allies to ensure that harsh the unique U.S.-Israel relationship and with appreciation for the President’s many international sanctions will be adopted if Iran leverages its newfound resources to efforts to support Israel. It is important to emphasize that as American Jews, we are further fund terror activity. The U.S. should also commit to leading a broader concerned about this agreement not only as Jews, but also as Americans. Iran’s regime international effort designed to eliminate Iran’s support of international terror.” poses a serious security threat to the people and nations of the region who continue to continued on page 10 9 Rosner, Sarah Golden Roy, Fred Rubin, Esther Sachs, Eunice Green, Larry Grossman, Marilyn Hecht, Robert Hirsch, Alberte We Remember Sachs, Samuel Rubin Schorr, Helena Schwalbe, Emma Simon, Hofheimer, Julius Jackel, Arthur Jones, Paul Kaplan, Judith Ann Herb Slavit, M. David Stein, Marilyn Torgerson, Bernard Virshup Karchem, Ruth Lewis, Lee Mandel, Aaron Miller, David Mintz, Berna March 11 | Martha Weinberg Adler, Bessie Ball, Herman Berns, Nanneman, Joseph Newman, Mildred Portner, Malka Roll, Leo Sheldon Blickman, Celia Cahn, William Cave, Isaac Eichholz, Berti Roselyn, Gussie Rubin, Habib Sahim, Hedy Schorr, Thyra Seelig, Feder, Sam Fink, Ben Finkel, Frances Fox, Benjamin Friedenreich, Leonard Segal, Mark Segal, Allan Shine, Elliot Shklar, Meyer Sara Grant, George Grossman, Sally Hafter, Dr. Bert Hersch, Shopkow, Rose Spector, Tillie Unger Those we have lost in years past George Hetzer, David L. Hubert, Ralph Jaffe, William Jurman, March 25 | Hy Alkin, Judith Biro, Ruth Boxer, Samuel Jack March 4 | George Samuel Abelson, Sonja Block, Herbert Alfred Kaplan, Robert Kay, Marvin Kraft, Charles Lewis, Adolf Brown, Martin Bryman, Arlene Barbara Cristal, David Emanuel, Blumer, Ida Dwosken, Shirley Ferman, David Gilner, Henry Green, Meyerson, Gavin Peters, Jean Prizant, Eve Rosenthal, Marilyn Maurice Engleman, Leonard Erlichman, Shirley Feinman, Leo Morey Gross, Hilda Herlich, Mr. Leon Hoffman, Henry Hofheimer, Darcy Rosenthal, Tom Sachse, Sanford Stanley Schneider, Nettie Gordon, Marlene Jaffe, Renee Lorraine Katcher, Irwin Isadore Katz, Estelle Hurwitz, Jacob Jaffe, Mary Ann Kaisel, Sidney Kopner, Weisfeld Schorr, Reva Sklar, Claire Smulyan, Florence Sokolec, Manuel Laber, Irving John Lurie, Myrtle Mackay, Rose Mayerson, Dorothy Korn, Lena Kovalsky, Ann Levine, Harry Levine, Louise Sandy Sprintz, Josie Stadler, Fritz Stransky, Robert Wiener, Betty Arron Messinger, Adele Barbara Miller, Robert Morse, Louis Manning, Jacob Myers, David Nathan, Meyer Novak, Fe Wild, Ruth B. Wohlfeiler, Hannah Wolenik Perlberg, Rena Preis, Sylvia Rosen, Jeanette Shumer, Albert Pangilinan, Lillian Pollak, Bernard Jack Pollock, Sam Pomarantz, March 18 | Anne Altman, Shirley Applebaum, Dorothy Bennett, Simon, Lois Kahn Svigals, Steven Kent Teren, Lucy Wargon, Arnold Reena Preis, Nathaniel Ratner, Alvin Ravel, Jeff Rhein, Shirley Olga S. Berman, Abbey Cohn, Bernice Foster, Faye Gendzel, Edith Widman, Minnie Woldenberg, Clyde Worthington, Misha Zeltser
Words From the Rabbi … continued from page 9 Concerning inspections the statement continues: “We share those grave concerns that And on the day after the vote, as on the day before, Israel will need the United States’ arise out of the fact that Iran’s nuclear sites are currently closed to international continued military and political support, bilaterally, in the United Nations, and more inspection and that, even if approved, Iran may violate key provisions of the agreement broadly on the world stage. thwarting inspections. Thus we call upon the Administration to commit to imposing But that discourse must be civil and constructive, which has too often not been the case. significant additional consequences if Iran challenges the inspections regime, in There must be an open and welcoming tent as we continue to debate not only the future addition to the “snap back” sanctions that will be imposed on Iran should it violate key of this agreement, but also the very nature of what it means to be pro-Israel. Our provisions of the JCPOA. Doing so will ensure that Iran recognizes that there will be Movement is deeply pro-Israel, though we express that core conviction in many different penalties for any violations of the agreement, even if claimed to be “minor.” Concerning ways. No one should be compelled to defend his or her Zionism or support for Israel as Human Rights and Religious Freedom: Iran remains one of the world’s great violators of we express legitimate views, both pro and con, about this most difficult issue. When our human rights and religious freedom. The Administration has committed to keeping the people gather … for the High Holy Days, members who support the deal will pray sanctions related to human rights fully intact after this agreement and must further alongside those who do not. If the harsh judgments and rhetoric continue between commit to marshaling international pressure on Iran to make improvements in Washington and Jerusalem – and within our American Jewish community – we will be expanding human rights, religious freedom and the development of democratic deprived of a deep commonality that binds our people together. Calling those who structures. Concerning the United States’ Standing in the World, the statement oppose the deal “war mongers” shuts down constructive debate; calling those who continues: “After years leading negotiations between the P5+1 and Iran, U.S. credibility support the deal “enablers of a second Holocaust” ends thoughtful discourse. With such on the world stage and/or in the Middle East has been weakened in recent months as significant stakes, thoughtful debate is not only warranted but also essential. That is the American political process has unfolded. It is critical that the U.S. maintain leverage what our tradition calls a machloket l’shem shamayim, “a debate for the sake of heaven.” to address future international challenges in a manner that protects and advances national interests and especially promotes peace in the Middle East. We recognize that continued on page 13 the broad international sanctions currently imposed on Iran, and which played a key role bringing Iran to the negotiating table, are in the process of collapsing with the U.N. Security Council, the Russians, Chinese, and certain Europeans moving to lift their sanctions even as we speak today. The U.S. influence and support of Israel is crucial to maintain peace in the Middle East and a safe Israel. The day after whether the JCPOA is approved or defeated, there will be a day after. It is essential that this debate not be allowed to create a lasting rift between Israel and the U.S., between North American Jews and Israelis, or among American Jews. We are concerned, as well, with the possibility that some will use the debate as fuel for anti-Semitic views. We call upon the Israeli leadership, the U.S. Administration and members of Congress, and those on all sides of this debate to tamp down their rhetoric. If the debate is allowed to weaken the U.S.-Israel alliance, or further sharpen partisan divides over what it means to be “pro-Israel,” Israel will be less secure.
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March into eScrip At no cost to you, eScrip is an amazing way to earn $$$ for Temple. Why should we sign up with eScrip? Temple needs money. It's easy and automatic. Every dollar counts. Go to www.escrip.com and follow the prompts. Temple’s ID# is 136985180 and sign up. Then March around the website, visit the Online Mall and the Dining Rewards site. Thank you to the 301 supporters of Temple's eScrip avurah program. In 2015 you earned for us $1,320. Compared to appenings years ago, when there were many more eSrip merchants, H that’s a small amount. However, it’s found money for us. We met for dinner on February 6th to celebrate our 41st Keep Marching into Lunardi’s for superb fresh meats, anniversary, and then adjourned to a member's home to produce and the hot and cold deli. Their variety of catering plan the coming year's events. trays is quite excellent. The presentation is beautiful and the We agreed to have business meetings every three months: food is yummy! February, June, and October. The June meeting this year Lorie Kaplan | eScrip coordinator | 408.267.4563 will be a weekday picnic in Almaden Lake Park. Since we have 17 members in our Havurah, we agreed that each person be given the opportunity to plan a no-host no-gift event during the month of their birthday, with those having birthdays in the same month planning a joint venture. This gives us the opportunity to get together more often. We are also starting a new program in March by meeting in Oakridge Mall at 9:00 AM which will help us exercise by walking in a safe area regardless of weather. Later in the dŚĞ/ƐƌĂĞůĐƟŽŶŽŵŵŝƩĞĞtĞůĐŽŵĞƐsůĂĚ<ŚĂLJŬŝŶ month we will meet at Bass Pro Shop, a new store of a nationwide chain. There is a restaurant located near the sůĂĚ<ŚĂLJŬŝŶǁŝůůĂĚĚƌĞƐƐƚŚĞƐŝƚƵĂƟŽŶĨŽƌƚŚĞ:ĞǁƐŝŶ ƵƌŽƉĞĂƚ bowling alley and archery range where we may have ƚŚŝƐƟŵĞ͕ĂŶĚŚŽǁ>ŝƐǁŽƌŬŝŶŐƚŚĞƌĞ͖ĂŶĚĂůƐŽŽĨƉƌŝŵĞ lunch. This is a good place to take a camera. ŝŵƉŽƌƚĂŶĐĞ͕ŚŽǁ>ŝƐǁŽƌŬŝŶŐǁŝƚŚ,ŝůůĞůĂŶĚƚŚĞƐƚƵĚĞŶƚƐŽŶ In July we will celebrate Bruce Matzner's birthday at the ƚŚĞhŶŝǀĞƌƐŝƚLJĐĂŵƉƵƐĞƐŝŶƚŚĞh^ƚŽĐŽŵďĂƚƚŚĞďƵůůLJŝŶŐĂŶĚ Beach in Capitola, probably with a stop at Gayle's Bakery. ŚĂƌĂƐƐŵĞŶƚŽĨ:ĞǁŝƐŚƐƚƵĚĞŶƚƐĂŶĚƚŚĞǁĞůů-ĨƵŶĚĞĚůŝĞƐ We are also looking into free summer outdoor concerts ƉƌŽŵŽƚĞĚďLJƌĂďĂĐƟǀŝƐƚƐƚŽĚĞĨĂŵĞ/ƐƌĂĞů͘ and jazz programs. Gene Alberts gave each family a refrigerator magnet in the ^ƵŶĚĂLJ͕DĂƌĐŚϲŝŶƚŚĞ&Z͘ZĞĨƌĞƐŚŵĞŶƚƐĂƚ shape of numeral 41, indicating the number of years we ϭϬ͗ϯϬD͕^ƉĞĂŬĞƌďĞŐŝŶƐĂƚϭϭ͗ϬϬD͘ have been together. He hand designed and produced each magnet. ϭϬϭϬhŶŝǀĞƌƐŝƚLJǀĞ͘^ĂŶ:ŽƐĞ͕͘ We know we are aging but we are making every effort to Z^sWƚŽĂĚŵŝŶΛƚĞŵƉůĞƐĂŶũŽƐĞ͘ŽƌŐ stay together and enjoy each others' company. Shalom, Dave Reiser sůĂĚ<ŚĂLJŬŝŶƐĞƌǀĞƐĂƐƚŚĞ Our Havurah program helps Temple families form ongoing social groups ƐƐŽĐŝĂƚĞŝƌĞĐƚŽƌŽĨƚŚĞĞŶƚƌĂů and enjoy different activities together. The Havurot themselves take on WĂĐŝĮĐZĞŐŝŽŶ͕ŶƟĞĨĂŵĂƟŽŶ many different forms—single or married members, younger or older >ĞĂŐƵĞĂŶĚŝƌĞĐƚŽƌŽĨŝƚƐ families, with or without children, etc.., and we try to best match members /ŶƚĞƌŶĂƟŽŶĂůīĂŝƌƐŽŵŵŝƩĞĞ of generally similar ages and interests together to form these small groups. New Havurot are forming all the time, and some existing ones may be looking for new members. If you are interested in joining this fun program, please contact Bobi Levine at [email protected]
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Thank You for Your Generous Contributions Alvin Ravel Garden Fund General Fund Judith Sapper, in memory of Rabbi's Discretionary Fund Deborah Katzman, in memory of Raisa Brushtein, in memory of Gerald H. Sapper Bobbi Barko , in memory of Larry Barko Lawrence Brenner Sofia Yampolsky Jeremy Siegler, in honor of Sheila Gold, in memory of Kay Johnson Manny Siegler's birthday Betty Rinsler Religious School Nathaniel and Sherry Cohen, in memory Carol and George Hofheimer of Mary Freiman Judith Stein, in memory of Endowment Fund Lorie Kaplan, in memory of Al Kaplan Vivian Cohen, in memory of Philip Cohen Dr. Arthur O. Stein Mark Lutvak, in memory of Ann Lee, in memory of Marcia Goldfarb John Stevenson Dufour, in memory of Henry and Debra Watkins Joseph and Jeanette Lutvak Marsha and Larry Matheny, in memory Aaron Berman Mark Lutvak, in memory of Gayle Lutvak Judith Jurman Omens of Bill Bitter Robert and Ruth Fox, in memory of David Reiser, in memory of Al Reiser Cemetery Beautification Fund Milton and Phyllis Rubin Aaron Berman Gordon and Pearl Schneiderman, in Charlotte Burriesci, in memory of Lori Rush, in honor of Deborah Zimmer's Joseph and Michelle Gabriel, in memory of Helen Matzner Simon and Helen Slater birthday memory of Rosalie Sogolow Sybil snd Mel Sommer, wishing Arlene and Rubin Jurman, in memory of Religious School Fund Dr. Robert and Jo Anne Hersch, in Harry Miller Ellie Gerstley a speedy recovery Genevieve and Norman Dishotsky memory of Dr. Bert Hersch Arlene and Rubin Jurman, in memory of Campership Fund Marc Israel Aaron Berman Marsha and Sherman Geeser, in Deborah Katzman, in memory of memory of Cele Goldstein Steve and Annette Ladowitz Carol Laughlin, in memory of Hi-Chan Katzman Deborah Jacobstein, in memory of Shirley and Dan Lee, in appreciation of Albert Miller Martin B. Levitt Endowment Fund Ronald Mandel Ethel Ress, in memory of Ida Ress Abraham Livchitz, in memory of Mort and Barbara Berlant, in honor of Dan and Shirley Lee, in memory of Mitzi Sapper, in memory of Abraham Katz Deborah Zimmer's 70th birthday Leo A. Lee Gerald Sapper Lois and Steve Matusow, in honor of Mort and Barbara Berlant, in memory of Sydney and Peggy Levin, in memory of Milton Fox Campership Fund Deborah Zimmer's birthday Helen Matzner Aaron Berman Marvin and Joan Fox John and Yvonne Nemec, in memory of Mort and Barbara Berlant, in memory of Sydney and Peggy Levin, in memory of Julia Lukes Jonathan Lotman Jeanette Lewon and Julia Levin Phyllis Matzner Mort and Barbara Berlant, Wishing Bobi and Ray Levine, in memory of Campership Fund Sandy Epstein a speedy recovery Judge Martin Rothenberg Bobi and Ray Levine, in memory of If you would like to Marvin and Joan Fox, in memory of Golda Miller, in memory of Jacob Zarchin Helen Matzner make a contribution, Aaron Berman Ethel Ress, in memory of Emma Simon Sybil and Mel Sommer, in memory of Helen Matzner visit Facilities for the Aged Fund Jay Rubenstein, in memory of www.templesanjose.org Sheldon Aronowitz, in memory of Irvin O. Rubenstein Belle Aronowitz Reflections on Craig Taubman We had over 150 people filling seats in the Temple House for our Celebrate Shabbat with Craig Taubman event on January 22! This incredible event was funded through the Scholar-in-Residence Experience it all Fund. Please consider making a donation to this fund to continue at the JCC! programs such as this. Join us for Jewish education, HQULFKPHQWFODVVHV ƬWQHVV DTXDWLFV FDPS SUHVFKRROFXOWXUDOSURJUDPV DQG PXFK PRUH
14855 Oka Road, Los Gatos, CA 95032 408.358.3636 | [email protected] www.appjcjcc.org Addison-Pddison-Penzak JCC of Silicoonn Valley Levy Familamily Campus
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Words From the Rabbi … continued from page 10 We offer these thoughts with the words of the prophet Isaiah (2:4) echoing in our hearts What about our homeless? We are one of the wealthiest places in the US and we do not and in our minds: “They will beat their swords into ploughshares and their spears into have a place for homeless people? This too is not acceptable. pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war Also, we have environmental issues with the drought and such… anymore.” These coming weeks provide the Administration with an opportunity to address the JCPOA’s serious limitations, and for all parties to this discussion – the There are so many issues that we need to be dealing with that we should be focused on Administration, members of Congress and the opponents of the deal in the United getting the facts, not on manipulating people and demonizing the other side. States and Israel – to establish a tone of civility and respect on these critical matters. As We need as much information as we can gather so that we can make intelligent and always, we pray for peace. We pray that 5776 and the years to follow are a time of peace significant changes that will make a true difference. for all people. We are an amazing people, and we are capable of so much. We have survived as a people I appreciate this statement because it reminds us that there are two issues at hand, good for thousands of years because of our ability to express majority and minority opinions. points to think about on both sides and no need to demonize the other side. We must We have made a difference in this world because of our ability to maintain our recognize that our biggest strength may lie in our ability to look at all issues thoughtfully peoplehood in the face of diversity. We must not let any issue come between us. We must and not play the manipulation, brainwashing game that as Jews there can only be one see that our oneness outweighs any specific issue. opinion. So it is time to come together and have thoughtful discourse and I look forward to all What we need more than anything is to broaden the discussion and see that there are points of view being heard at our Sermon discussion that we will have in a few moments. more than one view out there. So too we must express ourselves in a way that strengthens our peoplehood, not create a chasm in the middle. I believe we must listen to as many points of view as possible. It is in our best interest. There are plenty of issues for us to be talking about. Besides the Iran deal, we have a level of antisemitism that is growing even if it is hidden behind anti-Israel sentiment. Especially on our college and university campuses. It is rampant and the problem is growing. Regardless of our point of view toward Israel, we must protect our Jewish students on campus. So too we have an economic divide in this county that is unacceptable.
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