Getting to Know Others Through Social Action in This Issue

December 2016 5777

Getting to Know Others Through Social Action In This Issue:

On Sunday, November 6th, Beth David joined Christians from Lincoln Glen Church and Muslims from Pacifica Institute to serve dinner at Cityteam men’s From the shelter. Rabbi This team effort provides Page 3 opportunities for our communities to come together to serve hot meals to those in need. And the dialog that President’s takes place between Perspective Christians, Jews and Muslims Page 5 at these interactions is equally as important.

November’s event was the 4th such event that Beth David December has co-hosted under the Calendar Abrahamic Alliance International umbrella, and at each event inevitably some Pages 16 & 17 Jews and Muslims made contact for the first time and were pleasantly surprised and enriched by the encounter. Let’s keep this momentum going! Join Social action on February 26th when we once join forces with the West Valley Muslim Association and Saratoga Federated Church to prepare and serve a meal to the December homeless in our community. Birthdays Page 25

Congregation Beth David Annual Meeting Sunday, December 11th December Anniversaries 10:00 to 11:45am Page 25 Come hear about the state of YOUR synagogue and elect new officers and 100% club directors. We need a quorum of 75 members. Pages 26 - 27

You should have received a letter at the end of November. It contains meeting information contributions and your BALLOT VOUCHER. Pages 28 - 30 Please remember to bring your ballot voucher with you to the meeting.

Main Office 408-257-3333 Did you know the D’var is available online? [email protected] Help us save resources and money. Stop receiving a hard copy of D’var. Email [email protected]. Rabbis Philip R. Ohriner Senior Rabbi 408-366-9104 [email protected]

Leslie Alexander Rabbi of Community Engagement and Outreach 408-366-9105 [email protected]

Daniel J. Pressman Rabbi Emeritus [email protected]

Staff Sarah Hanuka Director of Lifelong Learning 408-366-9116 [email protected]

Tanya Lorien Director of Operations 408-366-9107 [email protected]

Barbara Biran Director of Ritual 408-366-9106 [email protected]

Monica Hernandez Member Account Associate 408-366-9108 [email protected]

Jillian Cosgrave Front Office Associate 408-366-9110 [email protected]

Lynn Crocker Mkt & Comm Associate 408-366-9102 [email protected]

Andrea Ammerman Admin. Rabbi Alexander & Sarah Hanuka 408-366-9101 [email protected]

Jewish Experience for Teens (JET) [email protected]

2 From the Rabbi By Philip Ohriner

Dear friends,

For many in our community, the election of President-elect Donald Trump is an unexpected and emotional outcome of our robust democracy at work— the end of a bruising, divisive, and battering election season that has taken a political, moral, and social toll on our country. As we move forward, we all realize that our country is even more deeply divided than we imagined. So many in America are hurting. The work of elevating our country to its highest calling as a place of prosperity, justice, and freedom is more urgent and overwhelming than we imagined.

Regardless of our political views, many of us wonder, “Now what?” To this question, I offer the following: Now is the time to allow ourselves to feel and heal. Many in our community are grieving, unsure how to explain all of this to their children our even make sense of things. Join your community for prayer services. I know the prayer book has been a source of strength for me this week. Allow yourself the space to feel. Know that your rabbis are here for you if you need a safe space to mourn, brainstorm, pray, or reflect.

Now is the time to remind ourselves of what we believe and stand for as Jews. We believe that all human beings are made in the image of God, deserving of dignity. We believe justice demands that we care for those on the margins of society. We believe that love and compassion are the antidote to fear. We believe we have a special obligation as a Jewish community to stand up to hate, xenophobia, and discrimination because our collective memory is permeated by them.

Now is the time to engage in the great democracy that is the United States of America by not allowing these beliefs to be pushed aside, to be vigilant and vocal when we see these values undermined by our elected officials and hold them accountable.

Now is the time to show respect for the office of the President of the United States and pray that Mr. Trump is granted the wisdom, strength, and leadership to serve all Americans, fulfilling his pledge to “bind the wounds of division”. Now is the time to engage in sacred, civil discourse with those in our community and country that see the world differently than us.

Finally, now is the time to reach out to friends, family, fellow congregants, and neighbors in support of one another as we face an unknown future. We need one another.

As we go forth as a country, may the words we recite as a community each Shabbat be realized: Our God and God of our ancestors: We ask Your blessings for our country, for its government, for its leader and advisors, and for all who exercise just and rightful authority. Teach them insights of Your Torah, that they may administer all affairs of state fairly, that peace and security, happiness and prosperity, justice and freedom may forever abide in our midst. Creator of all flesh, bless all inhabitants of our country with Your spirit. May citizens of all races and creeds forge a common bond in true harmony to banish all hatred and bigotry and to safeguard the ideals and free institutions which are the pride and glory of our country.

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Philip Ohriner

Please share our joy as our son, Ron, is called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah.

Saturday, December 10, 2016

We invite you to join us for Kiddush lunch following the service.

Tzvia and Reuven Shelef

Please share our joy as our son, Robert, is called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah.

Saturday, December 17, 2016

We invite you to join us for Kiddush lunch following the service.

Michelle and Scott Nathanson

Please share our joy as our son, Benjamin, is called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah.

Saturday, December 24, 2016

We invite you to join us for Kiddush lunch following the service.

Anna and Mikhail Slutsky

Please share our joy as our son, Ethan, is called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah.

Saturday, December 31, 2016

We invite you to join us for Kiddush lunch following the service.

Robin and Martin Rauchwerk

4 President’s perspective By dan skilken

Safe and Secure

The recent presidential election unfortunately has brought a lot of hate and bigotry in America to the forefront that was previously hidden from view. This has invoked new fears of religious persecution, not only for Muslims but for Jews as well. As a congregation, we must continue to live our lives proud to be Jewish, and continue our regular synagogue life without fear of harassment. We need to understand how to keep our synagogue secure and be vigilant in protecting our first amendment rights.

Back in February, the Beth David board of directors formed a new permanent security committee headed by Opher Harel to oversee security procedures and policies. When the building was under construction, we brought in consultants to review the building and construction plans to make new recommendations for how to secure the building and prevent an attack. Many of the suggestions focused on making us a difficult target. This generally discourages an extremist from even trying to attack us in a particular manner.

The triangular benches across our entrance provide a formidable barrier to prevent a car or truck from driving through our entrance into the Mercaz. Fencing along the deep ditch of the bioswale protects our eastern side. Security cameras provide views all the way around the building and are displayed in many areas in the administrative offices so that we can see who approaches. The front doors are made from tempered – laminated glass to make it very difficult to smash the glass and enter the building. We have a new alarm system with panic buttons that can quickly call the sheriff. Preparation is the key to being secure and continuing our programming and prayers without worrying about an attack.

The sheriff’s department has expressed interest in swat team training in our building so that they are prepared to respond very quickly to any threat that comes our way. They will help our security committee to develop plans and procedures that minimize our risks of someone getting hurt before they can respond.

Both the sheriff’s department and our security consultants have strongly recommended that we keep our doors locked as much as possible. This runs counter to our desire to be as welcoming as possible, but it does keep someone from just walking in when there is no one in our Mercaz during minyan. We also purchased 800 card keys so that congregants can let themselves into the building, now we just need to develop the procedures for issuing them, and how to have people let us know when they need to get into the building after office hours. These keys are not available yet, but once the security committee has developed procedures for issuing the keys, the office will make an announcement.

Proper training and preparation will help keep us safer in our new building, and protecting our first amendment rights, and protecting our children from persecution will help us feel more secure. At the local level, if you or your children are threatened, attacked, or insulted for being Jewish, please give one of our rabbis a call. They can help you address the threat and counsel you to help alleviate your fears. At the national level, get involved if you see our government forget their obligation to protect our first amendment rights, or the rights of members of other religions, sexual preferences, or races. If you don’t know whom to contact, our clergy or office staff can help you find the contact information for our representatives. Together as a congregation, we can not only help keep ourselves safe and secure, but we can also demonstrate the importance of freedom of religion and supporting other minorities in their desire to live in peaceful co-existence with us.

Men’s Club Coffee and Schmooze

Sunday January 8th 9:30 - 10:30am

Comradery, Coffee and Connections for our Community.

Come join us for our monthly coffee and schmooze at Peets, 12148 Saratoga Sunnyvale Rd, Saratoga.

Email [email protected] for more information

Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley (JFSSV) Makes Hanukkah Brighter for Those in Need! Embrace-A-Family Look for JFS dreidel boards in the Mercaz now through December 23rd

Jewish Family Services invites you to be a part of the 9th annual Embrace-A-Family program, which brings hope and smiles to those in need. Your gifts will help ease holiday pressures and stress for needy families, senior citizens, and adults. Frail, isolated seniors are often overlooked at this time of year. Providing gifts for them is a special mitzvah that will make a huge positive difference in their lives.

Select a gift dreidel, purchase the gift listed, and bring your unwrapped gift to the JFS SV office at the Levy Family Campus, 14855 Oka Rd, Suite 202, Los Gatos. Your gift will bring a smile – and be a blessing - to someone in need.

You can also buy online through Target gift registry

See More Ways to Help www.jfssv.org/embrace-a-family-2016.html

6 7 BALK FAMILY MEMORIAL CAMP SCHOLARSHIP We are now accepting nominations for summer 2017 resident camp scholarships funded by the Balk Family Memorial Camp Scholarship Fund.

This fund perpetuates the memory and ideals of Beth David members Sheldon and Melvina Balk and their sons, Richard and David Balk. We seek to capture and light the spirit of Judaism in our youth, especially those who may seem apathetic about Jewish activities.

We offer substantial aid, not based on academic results or activities, but, rather, to awaken a student’s Jewish identity. We give preference to first time campers.

Please call Chuck Taubman at 408-257-3251 to learn how to submit a nomination. Deadline 1/13/17

Adult B’nei Mitzvah Class Forming Now! Tuesdays from 7:30-9:30pm beginning January 17th

Have you ever thought about becoming an adult Bar or Bat Mitzvah? Or, if you had a Bar or Bat Mitzvah as a child, would you like to enhance your understanding and skills in prayer, Torah and Haftarah reading (trope)?

If yes, now is the time!

We need a minimum of 6 people. This class is for both men and women. Email Barbara Biran at [email protected].

8 Conversations in Jewish Learning Current Issues Affecting Israel and the Middle East th Tuesday, December 6 at 7:30pm Israel faces serious challenges in a region in turmoil. Ravit Baer, Deputy Consul General of Israel for our region, will discuss current issues affecting Israel and the Middle East.

About the speaker: Ravit Baer has served as Deputy Consul General of Israel to the Pacific Northwest since August 2015. She is an attorney and was legal advisor in the Prime Minister’s Office before becoming a career diplomat in 2005.

Jewish Book Discussion Group Dancing Arabs by Sayed Kashua, led by Miriam Palgon Saturday, December 10th at approximately 1:30pm

An Arab-Israeli author tells a story, inspired by his own experiences, of the tensions between Jewish and Arab Israelis. His debut novel has been praised around the world for its honesty, irony, humor, and its very human portrayal of a young man who moves between two societies, becoming a stranger to both.

Special Event Israel’s Environmental Challenges and Relevant Jewish Teachings Saturday, December 17th at 1:30pm

Rabbi Yonatan Neril, Executive Director of the Interfaith Center for Sustainable Development, will speak about Israel’s environmental challenges and the relevance of Jewish teachings. Rabbi Neril has engaged in several inter-religious projects on environmental sustainability. His work encourages the cooperation of religious leaders, teachers, and communities on ecological issues.

About the Speaker: A native of California, Rabbi Neril completed an M.A. from Stanford focusing on global environmental issues, and received rabbinical ordination in Israel. He has spoken internationally on religion and the environment. Rabbi Neril lives with his family in Jerusalem.

Exploring “The Other Talmud” the Talmud of Jerusalem Saturday, December 17th 1:00 - 2:15pm Most of the time, when we say we are studying Talmud, we are speaking of the Rabbinic text spoken and written by sages in Babylonia. Why did the Babylonian Talmud ( bavli) become the “gold standard “ in Rabbinic text and what would have been different in Jewish life, observance and law had we used the “Yerushalmi” as our guide? Each month we will explore texts and topics emerging from the Jerusalem Talmud in a fun and conversational way.

9 10

Tea Time With a Maven Second Tuesday of the month @ 2:00pm

December 13th Estates, Trusts & Scamming Our maven will be Dave Hoffman to talk about trusts, estates, and scams.

Bring your questions related to the topic and schmooze with the maven (Yiddish for a trusted expert in a particular field) and friends over tea and sweet nosh. Free

Israel Coffee Klatch Hot for Shabbat Last Tuesday of the month 10:30am Every Shabbat @ 12:00pm Tuesday, December 27th Join the CBD community for a hot, Shabbat Coffee, questions and lunch, and opportunity to schmooze and conversations about the learn with friends old and new! After lunch state of our Jewish state you can select to learn from one of our with Alex Drukarev as rotating learning sessions. You’re also moderator. Free welcome to attend Shabbat services starting at 9:30. Free

Commit yourself to being a part of Beth David’s Expanded Social Action outreach effort!

All ages are welcome to attend our meeting at CBD on: Wednesday, December 14th @ 7:30pm

Social Action activities include: · Food for the hungry · Cooperation with other religious communities · Mitzvah Day · Gifts for those in need · Supplies for the homeless · and more!!!!

Contact Carol Cassell [email protected] for more information.

11 12 Young Adults Hanukkah Happiness Tuesday, December 6th 6:30 - Midnight

Bring some Hanukkah happiness to the residents of Hatikvah House in Campbell (a home for developmentally disabled Jewish adults) by joining them for an informal Hanukkah party (crafts, dreidels, singing, and Hanukkah nosh). Then head down town to continue your pre-Hanukkah happiness at one of the cool pubs in Campbell. RSVP online at www.beth- david.org/RSVP or call the office at 408-257-3333.

What do you want to do? Ideas for upcoming activities include, Comedy Sportz, Shabbat dinners, Reggae Shabbat, wine tasting and more. We want to hear your ideas. Join the steering committee and help guide this new group. Email [email protected].

January 21st 9:30am - 1:00pm

ALL women ages 13 – 113 are welcome to join us for an inspiring women led Shabbat morning service. Be Part of the Service You can also choose to lead a part with something you’ve led before or learn to lead something new! Service is followed by a lovely Kiddush lunch. Email Iris at [email protected] for more information and to sign up to participate.

13 Join Us to Laugh, Learn & Lean

Ladies Who Lunch Thursday, December 8th @ 11:00am Ladies Who Lunch meets monthly at a member’s home. Attendees bring dishes to match the month’s theme. We share stories, recipes and memories. This is a casual, fun opportunity to socialize with women of all ages. Dames who Dine Thursday, 12/15 7:00pm Dames Who Dine meets monthly for to share a meal and casual socializing at a local restaurant. This is an opportunity to get to know new people and to catch up with old friends. Email Cathy Beyda at

An enthusiastic group of women met in November to plan events for CBD’s A Place for Women See page 13 for details about our upcoming Women’s Shabbat on January 21st. Sign up to participate! More ways to connect coming soon!

Email [email protected] for more information about this social and service group for women of all ages 14 15 December Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday

4 4 Kislev 5 5 Kislev 6 6 Kislev 7 7 Kislev 9:00am Torah Trope 10:00am Intermediate 3:00pm Yiddish Conversation 3:30pm Blood Drive 9:30am JCORE Hebrew Group 4:00pm JEWEL 9:30am Jewish Experience 11:45am Beginning Hebrew 6:30pm Young Adults 7:00pm Minyan for Teens - Session 1 2:15pm Beginning Hebrew for Hanukkah Happiness 9:30am Minyan FSU Émigrés (offsite) 7:00pm Minyan 10:30am Adult Ed Committee 7:00pm Minyan 7:00pm Silicon Valley Meeting Intro to Judaism (Offsite) 11:00am Jewish Experience 7:30pm Current Issues for Teens - Session 2 Facing Israel and the Middle East

11 11 Kislev 12 12 Kislev 13 13 Kislev 14 14 Kislev 9:00am Torah Trope 10:00am Intermediate 2:00pm Tea Time with a 4:00pm JEWEL 9:30am JCORE Hebrew Maven 7:00pm Minyan 9:30am Jewish Experience 11:45am Beginning Hebrew 7:00pm Minyan for Teens - Session 1 2:15pm Beginning Hebrew for 7:00pm Silicon Valley 9:30am Minyan FSU Émigrés (offsite) Intro to Judaism (Offsite) 10:00am Annual Meeting 7:00pm Minyan 11:00am Jewish Experience for Teens - Session 2 12:30pm Cub Scouts Pack 504 Meetings 12:30pm Board Meeting

18 18 Kislev 19 19 Kislev 20 20 Kislev 21 21 Kislev 9:30am Minyan 10:00am Intermediate 1:00pm Photo Directory 7:00pm Minyan 10:00am Hiking Meet-up - Hebrew Photoshoot Sunday Stroll 11:45am Beginning Hebrew 3:00pm Yiddish Conversation 10:00am Photo Directory 1:00pm Photo Directory Group Photoshoot Photoshoot 7:00pm Minyan 12:30pm Cub Scouts Pack 2:15pm Beginning Hebrew for 7:30pm Program Committee 504 Meetings FSU Émigrés (offsite) Meeting 5:00pm Hazak Hanukkah 7:00pm Minyan Extravaganza

Sign up for Sign up for Sign up for photoshoot here photoshoot here photoshoot here 25 25 Kislev 26 26 Kislev 27 27 Kislev 28 28 Kislev Chanukah: 2 Candles Chanukah: 3 Candles Chanukah: 4 Candles Chanukah: 5 Candles 9:30am Minyan 10:00am Intermediate 10:30am Israel Coffee Klatch 1:00pm Photo Directory Hebrew 1:00pm Photo Directory Photoshoot 11:45am Beginning Hebrew Photoshoot 7:00pm Minyan 2:15pm Beginning Hebrew for 7:00pm Minyan FSU Émigrés (offsite) Sign up for Sign up for 7:00pm Minyan photoshoot here photoshoot here 16 Thursday Friday Saturday

1 1 Kislev 2 2 Kislev 3 3 Kislev Rosh Chodesh Kislev 10:00am Talmud Study 9:30am Services/ New Member Upcoming 7:00pm Minyan 11:15am Jewish Ethics Shabbat 7:45pm Our Inner Impulses: Discussion 10:30am Netivot Haneshamah: Exploring the purpose and 4:33pm Candle lighting Torah Takes The Stage Power of the Yetzer Hara 6:30pm TGI Shabbat 12:00pm Hot for Shabbat 12/6 @ 7:30pm Service Followed by 12:00pm Ruah Rally Potluck Dinner 12:30pm Kiddush Current Issues Facing 1:00pm Kabbalah Havurah: Israel and the Middle Experiencing the Zohar East 8 8 Kislev 9 9 Kislev 10 10 Kislev 11:00am Ladies Who Lunch 10:00am Talmud Study 9:30am Family Service 7:00pm Minyan 11:15am Jewish Ethics 9:30am Services/Ron Shelef Bar 7:30pm Tequila, Tacos and Discussion Mitzvah Talmud Thursdays 4:33pm Candle lighting 10:30am Netivot Haneshamah: For 12/11 @ 10:00am 7:45pm Our Inner Impulses: 6:30pm Services Russian Speakers Exploring the purpose and 10:30am Netivot Haneshamah: Annual Meeting power of the Yetzer Hara Makom Yoga All members are 10:30am Youth Congregation warmly invited and 11:15am Tot Shabbat 12:00pm Hot for Shabbat strongly encouraged 12:00pm Ruah Rally to attend. 12:30pm Kiddush 1:00pm Post Kiddush Mitzvah Hour 1:30pm Jewish Book Group 15 15 Kislev 16 16 Kislev 17 17 Kislev 7:00pm Dames who Dine 10:00am Talmud Study 9:30am Netivot Haneshamah: 7:00pm Minyan 11:15 am Jewish Ethics A Learning Minyan Discussion 9:30am Services/Robert Nathanson 12/16 @ 6:30pm 4:34pm Candle lighting Bar Mitzvah A Happy Hanukkah 6:30pm A Happy Hanukkah 10:30am Netivot Haneshamah: Happening for all Happening Mindfulness and Meditation 6:30pm Services 12:00pm Hot for Shabbat ages! 12:00pm Ruah Rally 12:30pm Kiddush 1:00pm Exploring “The Other Talmud” 1:30pm Israel’s Environmental Challenges 12/17 @ 1:30pm 22 22 Kislev 23 23 Kislev 24 24 Kislev Israel’s Environmental 7:00pm Minyan 11:15am Jewish Ethics Chanukah: 1 Candle Discussion 9:30am Services/Benjamin Challenge 4:37pm Candle lighting Sloutsky Bar Mitzvah 6:30pm Services 10:30am Netivot Haneshamah: Approachable Torah 11:15am Tot Shabbat 12:00pm Hot for Shabbat 12:00pm Ruah Rally 12/18 @ 10:00pm 12:30pm Kiddush Hiking Meet-up - Sunday

29 29 Kislev 30 1 Tevet 31 2 Tevet Chanukah: 6 Candles Chanukah: 7 Candles Chanukah: 8 Candles 1:00pm Photo Directory Rosh Chodesh Tevet 9:30am Services/Ethan Rauchwerk Photoshoot 11:15am Jewish Ethics Bar Mitzvah 7:00pm Minyan Discussion 12:00pm Hot for Shabbat 4:42pm Candle lighting 12:00pm Ruah Rally Sign up for 6:30pm Services 12:30pm Kiddush photoshoot here

17 Today’s Take on a Timeless Tradition Kicks off Thursday, January 26th 7:30 - 10:00pm Learn new ways to enjoy Shabbat, holidays and Jewish life

Evenings include food demos, crafting, discussion and real information and ideas on how do Jewish stuff without stress and with enjoyment and satisfaction.

Upcoming dates and themes January 26th - Shabbat February 23rd - Purim March 30th - Passover April 27th - Jewish Values for Everyday Life May 25th - Shavuot and Summer Living

A themed signature cocktail and snacks will be served. Participants will receive a special loose-leaf retro binder in which to save all handouts, information, ideas and recipes each month and a special gift.

RSVP by January 20th at www.beth-david.org/RSVP or call the office at 408-257-3333. Cost for the 5 week session is $100 for members/$125 for guests

Congregation Beth David 19700 Prospect Road ● Saratoga ● CA ● 95070 ● 408.257.3333 ● www.Beth–David.org

18 TGI Shabbat - 1st Fridays @ 6:30pm December 1st, January 6th Join together with the entire Beth David community in celebrating Shabbat. Begin with a happy and celebratory Kabbalat Shabbat service followed by a delicious potluck dinner. This year, in honor of completion of our new synagogue, our theme is Holy Place - Makom Kadosh. Each month we will feature a specific place in Israel during services and dinner. In December we will feature Tzipori. In January we will feature Kinneret. RSVP for dinner online at www.Beth-David.org/RSVP or call the office at 408-257-3333.

Family Service - 2nd Saturdays @ 9:30am December 10th, January 14th This service offers a joyous, spiritual, thought-filled, multigenerational experience. Pray with your whole family and find something different and unique for every member of the family.

Tot Shabbat - 2nd and 4th Saturdays @ 11:15am December 10th & 24th For ages 5 and under. Relaxing, lighthearted, interactive, Shabbat program for tots. Includes songs, stories, puppets and more.

Do You Enjoy Working With Are you in a Havurah? Tweens/Teens? If so, let us know!

Congregation Beth David’s Department of Life Long Learning is looking to hire a Youth Advisor beginning January 1, 2017.

Ideal candidate is an energetic tween/teen loving individual who can plan and organize fun events for our junior and senior youth groups. We estimate that this position will average about 10 hours per week of work. We are seeking to identify and recognize Compensation is based on experience. the many havurot made up by Beth David members. Interested candidates are encouraged to send their resume to Sarah Hanuka, Director If you are currently a part of an active of Life Long Learning. Electronic copies may havurah, email Rabbi Alexander at be sent to [email protected]. Hard [email protected] and let her know. copies may be mailed to 19700 Prospect Rd. Saratoga CA 95070. Plans are in the works for a special Shabbat recognizing Beth David’s Havurot.

19 20 21

Shushan County Fair March 11th 10:00pm - midnight March 12th 11:00am - 3:00pm

Come to the Shushan County Fair for a traditional state fair experience.

*Games *Rides *Animals *Contests *Food *Entertainment

Saturday night the fair opens after the Megillah reading for teens and young adults. Those 21 and over can attend our renowned Hamen-scotchen event with this year’s addition our special Purim cocktail “Vashti’s Revenge!”

Purim Volunteers Needed We are looking for volunteers to help out with the Shushan County Fair We need help organizing all aspects of this fun and unusual event. Please email Barb Green at [email protected] if you would like to help. We are also seeking people who love vintage sales etc. to volunteer for the “White elephant Bazaar”. Email Cathy Beyda at [email protected] to help.

Kita Gimel Judaica

We love learning about Israel! 22 Save the Date CBD’s Mah Jongg Tournament Is Returning! See you on February 12, 2017 @ 9:30am

Hiking Meet-up - Sunday Stroll Sunday, December 18th* 10:00am - 12:00pm

Join with others at Beth David who love to walk. The walk will be a 5 mile loop around Saratoga starting at the synagogue. Walk departs at 10:00 am sharp. Walks postponed in case of rain.

RSVP online at www.Beth-David.org/RSVP or call the office at 408-257-3333 for assistance.

* Date changed to accommodate the Annual Meeting

23 Ann Taven, Aileen Menkin, and Carol Osofsky are among the women of Threads of Tradition who met recently to sew tachrichim (Jewish burial garments). Tachrichim are available at no cost to CBD members at the time of need. It is one of the ways that CBD supports its members throughout the life cycle. For more information, contact [email protected].

Did you know the D’var is

available online? Help us save resources and money. Stop receiving a hard copy of D’var. NEW MEMBERS Email [email protected].

Alicia Ader

Janice Margolius Do you know Yiddish? Paul and Maggie Fahn and their child Susan Would you like to chat with others in Yiddish?

New Member Shabbat This informal group meets for casual rd Saturday, December 3 , 9:30am conversation, jokes and socializing. Yiddish New members are invited to participate by speakers of all levels welcome! having an honor during the service and longtime Upcoming Dates: members are encouraged to come, welcome December 6th and 20h @ 3:00 p.m. them and share in a relaxed and lovely Shabbat For more information, email lunch following the service coordinator, Ruth Bareket, at [email protected], or call Vivian Herman at 408-257-7760.

24 Happy Birthday December 7th (Continued) 13th 22nd 1st Elizabeth Park Karen Fihn Dennis Wolf Micah Ammerman Danielle Horovitz Peter Spielvogel David Fishman Ruth Bareket Arielle Cole 23rd Nevoh Almog th th Samuel Ammerman 8 14 Roberta Schwartz Julian Lewis Rochelle Taboh Marlene Kass Michelle Nathanson Carol Cassell Karl Pfalzer Samantha Himelstein Lily Cinnamon Samuel Shultz Peter Holan Rachel Abramovitz Hayley Krum Gabriel Clayton Michal Strutin Ronit Weinstock Rhoda Yelowitz th th th Michael Bierman 9 15 25 2nd Nathan Handelsman Benjamin Sloutsky Alexandria Grodzinsky Jessica Bricker Michele Balaban Martin Sherman Aaron Skilken Elias Isaac 16th Jacob Ben-David Ruth Schwartz th 3rd 10 Ron Maltiel Eitan Mutchnik Daniel Sharvit Faina Eichis Bob Baird Abraham Bromberg Ethan Rauchwerk Robin Ferris Scott Klein Gregory Prokter th th Scott Guggenheim Rachel Taylor 17 26 Lena Rajna Joe Weiss Shannon Wells Scott Knaster 4th Maya Lewis Roberta Bloom Jared Weinstock Ilana Nankin Yael Alcheck 27th Amit Ben-David th Nyssa Spector Ima Eshaghoff 18 Lee Gavens Lisa Stein Levi Lewis 28th Rachel Beyda th Herman Burdman 11 Haya Shottan Cookie Addison Rafael Bendahan Maximillian Schaffer Alexia Hughes Mayer Warwick th 5th Anat Baird 19 Devora Fine Shir Shelef Daniella Baird Ilan Province Ari Lichy th Diane Rock Michaly Volinsky Harriet Fernandez 29 Natalie Mauskopf Emma Schneider Grace Woolfson Holly Mendel th 6th Lilian Halem 20 Daniel Rosenberg Daniel Appleman Stacey Scherbakovsky 30th Gloria Levy th Ruth Brill 12 Amy Lanctot Oscar Preil Lawrence Cohn Elizabeth Blumenthal Shoshana Wolf Paula Levitt Galina Drabkin, David Mayer David Hoffman Lorraine Abramson st Howard Pomerantz Laura Schaevitz Dan Maydan 31 st Herzel Ashkenazi Emma Vainish 21 Shelley Timmins Irina Tenberg Anna Bauman Samson Sharvit Mark Davis 7th Solomon Moshkevich Sharon Horovitz Georgette Tanenbaum Mark Grodzinsky Joe Lichy Karel Gless Jonathan Katz Morayah Horovitz

Anniversaries 27th December st 21 Lee & Susan Gavens 1st Elie & Yael Alcheck Lewis & Carol Osofsky nd Louis & Janet Witkin th 22 28 9th Phillip & Marlene Bernstein David & Ilana Baird rd Jeff & Kate Fox th 23 29 11th Barry & Marilyn Siegel Kenneth & Nancy Wiener Michael & Felicia Schaffer Eric & Ilene Janofsky Phil & Monique Alexander th 15 th th 25 30 Adam & Aurianne Dorsay Maxie & Helen Baer Norman & Sarah Rosenberg 17th th 26 Franklin & Esther Woolfson Stephen & Helaine Green st Abe & Bayla Bromberg 31 18th Jeffrey Englander & Susan Allan & Mindy Berkowitz Howard & Emily Gannes Greenberg-Englander 25 THANK YOU! To the following who have donated to the Next 50 building campaign Your participation is important, not the amount. See your name here! (List updated as of November 21, 2016) Sondra & Alex Goldberger Laura and David Abada Barbara (Babs) J. W. Davis Hava Goldman Cookie Addison & Family Karen & Jacob Deloumi Sheila & Howard Goldstein Davida & Charles Adelberg Eleanor & Lloyd Dickman Isaac Goldstein Marilyn & Allan Ader Sandra & Morris Dolmatch Barbara & Stephen Goldstein & Family Yael & Elie Alcheck Lou Dombro Vivian & Sherman Golub Monique & Philip Alexander Phillip Doppelt Alana & Grant Goodman Dr. Kenneth Aitchison & Rabbi Dorothy & Richard Dorsay Norma & David Goorvitch Leslie Alexander Galina & Mike Drabkin Janie & Greg Gotlib Rochelle & Barry Alhadeff Herb Dreifuss Rhonda Raider & Donald Gould Andrea and David Ammerman Danielle & Hank Drew Joseph Grapa Appleman Family Lory & Alexander Drukarev Cheryl Graubart Judy & Michael Applesmith Susan Greenberg-Englander & Dave Graubart Diane & Doron Aronson Jeffrey Englander Barbara & Arye Green Wendy Askenas Miriam Engel Helaine & Stephen Green James Attar Deborah Estreicher Ann Greenspan Helen & Max Baer Rhonda Farber Karen & Allen Guggenheim Ginny & Bob Baird Hillary & Stanley Farkas Susan & Clifford Gutterman David & Rabbi Ilana Baird Dina Fayngold Maxine and Robert Halem Mishy & Jason Balaban Jan & Bryan Ferguson Joyce & Bill Halper Amy & Gary Ball Cary & Adrian Feria Nathan Handelsman Ruth & Noah Bareket Harriet & Don Fernandez Sarah & Yonothan Hanuka Muriel & David Barnett Donald Field Harel Family Elizabeth & Jim Batson Karen & Melvin Fihn Wendy & David Harris Betty Becker Debbie & Bob Fils CBD Hazak Galina & Alex Belogolovsky Sofia Filshtinsky Vivian Herman Iris & Joseph Bendahan Reneé & Howard Fine Monica Hernandez Renee & Jacob Ben-David Ziva & David Fishman Laurie Himelstein Mindy & Rabbi Allan Berkowitz Aurelia & Frank Fleck Bonnie & Lee Hirsch Mary Jo & Alan Bernard Kama Fletcher Debby & David Hoffman Marlene & Phil Bernstein Kate & Jeffrey Fox Dr. Melinda Reynard & Steve Hoffman Cathy & William Beyda Donna & Steven Frankel Sharon & Amir Horovitz Barbara Biran Liya Freydin Marcia Hunter Marjorie Bischoff Rosemary & Stephen Frieden Janet & David Hurwitz Roberta & Jeremy Bloom Julia & Adam Fuks Madelyn & Dov Isaacs Ellyn & Kenneth Bloomfield Sandi & David Gaertner Beverly & Fred Jacobson The Blumenthal Family Ricki Lee & Neal Gafter Jane & Len Jacobson Judy & Brett Borah Emily & Howard Gannes Carol Jeans, The Sereno Group Rhoda & Martin Bress Hindy and Jerome Ganeles Lori & Daniel Kahn Sandi & Kenneth Bretz Susan & Lee Gavens Renee & Jeffrey Kanel Ruth & Victor Brill Daisy Gelb Marcia Kaplan Bayla & Abe Bromberg Ann Graubart Gershanov Ellen & Steven Karel Douglas Brook Lee & Al Ghan Evan Kass Linda & Barry Brummer Rachel & Eli Gild Stephanie & Ian Kass & Family Marlene & Marshall Burak Judy & David Gilford Marlene Kass Nestor Cabrales Ruth & Edward Gipstein Rudi & Jeff Katz Felissa & Myron Cagan Rakhil Karasik & Viktor Gitis Shoshana Wolf & Jonathan Katz Carol & Chris Cassell Wendy J. & Lance Glasser Doris & Stanley Katz The Checkman Family Glenda & Harry Glatstein Bonnie Kehl Seema Cicerone Gaelle Glickfield Carol & Roland King Lori Kramer Cinnamon Jane & Robert Glicksman Lynne & Stephen Kinsey Diane & Bert Clement Myrna Gluck Morrie Kirschen Judith & Lawrence Cohn Genya & Yakov Glukhovsky Eleanor & Ed Kiss Joanne & Harry Cornbleet Ellen & Harvey Gold Jacqueline & Charles Klein Jillian Cosgrave Jane & Michael Gold Susan & Thomas Klein Lynn Crocker Denise & Martin Goldberg Jerry Daniel 26 Barbara & Scott Knaster Nancy & Marty Newman Michal Strutin & Michael Sinensky Ruth A. Kohan Phyllis & Neil Newman Blanka & Art Singer Caryn & Ben Kovar Jenifer & Evan Ohriner Nancy & Dan Skilken Anna Kraus Rabbis Shoshana & Philip Ohriner Morris and Fannie Skilken Family Judith & Israel Krongold Crystal & Mendy Ouzillou Foundation Jan Krum Alice Wald & Paul Overmyer Liza & Ilya Slain Raisa and Vladimir Kukuyev Judy & David Paktor Anna & Mikhail Slutsky Marina and Maels Kuperman Minda & Richard Parrish Kenneth Solnit Lauren Flato & Steven Labovitz Andrew Passett Ann & Joseph Sorger Al Lampell Lori Passett & Family Irene & Walter Spector Rachel Schwab & Chet Lanctot Robin D. Penn Stephanie & Peter Spielvogel Suzanne & Dave Larky Evette & David Pennypacker Kitty Steinborn Judith & Allan Lavetter Susannah & Karl Pfalzer Lisa & Nathan Stein Lorna Borenstein & David Lawee Joelle Pluemer Cheryl Zatkin-Steres & George Steres Tracy Lee Margie & Howard Pomerantz Penina & Herman Stern Benjamin Leitner Marilyn Popper Joan & Henry Stone Susan & Michael Leitner Rabbi Daniel Pressman Bonnie & Lee Stone Jeanette & Stuart Lerner Emma & Gregory Prokter Rama & Arieh Strod Loretta & Edward Levin Julie Tardos & William Province Meryle & Howard Sussman Judy & Gordon Levin Susan Murai Raider & Andrew Raider Irene & Bob Swedroe & Family Bernard Levine Lena & Jussi Rajna Susan Gould & Rami Tabibian Susan & Mark Levine Judie & Benjamin Ram Rochelle & Sander Taboh Fay Levinson Thelma Ramm Georgette & Alan Tanenbaum Paula Barbarito-Levitt & Marc E. Sheryl & Martin Rattner Barbara & Chuck Taubman Levitt Robin & Martin Rauchwerk Ann & Rick Tavan Gloria & Ken Levy Susan & Ron Remba Evelyn Tavan Mimi & Reuben Levy Svetlana and Alexander Ring Irina & Gene Tenberg Sheryl & Eric Lewis Orit & Paul Riskin Support provided by Tides Foundation Elizabeth and Joe Lichy Robinson Family Helen Tieger Andrea & Steven Linder Bettina & Daniel Rosenberg Nazgol & Shelley Timmins Lisa & Oleg Lipkind Jill & Josh Rosenberg Janice & Robert Torczyner Tanya Lorien Gloria & Theodore Rosenblume Jane Troflianin Shelley & Ken Luskey Susan & Allen Rosenzweig Aline Usim Enid Malkin Rothstein Family Cara & Ronen Vainish Sue & Ron Maltiel Riva Rubnitz Sima Vishnevsky Tamar & Leeor Mamou Alison & Ron Ruebusch Tal Volinsky Vered Marash Robin Sabes Reenie Wagner Doysa Markova Marina & Michael Salzman Marjorie Alpert & Jeff Warwick Miriam & Charles Marr Christel Sanders Barbie & Martin Weinstein Natalie & William Mauskopf Felicia & Michael Schaffer Sheila & Marty Weisberg Howard May, DDS Cyndi Sherman & Steve Schleimer Carol & Jeffrey Weiss Dan Maydan Rita & Steve Schlosser Harriet & Frank Weiss Sandy & David Mayer Maureen and Andrew Schneider Linda & Joseph Weiss & Family Tamar & George Mednick Natalie M. Schriger Gayle & Arthur Weissbrodt Lydia Mednick Myrtle & Joel Schwartz Pat & Alan Werba Sylvia & Michael Meltzer Myra & Pete Schwartz Nancy & Kenneth Wiener Holly & David Mendel Roberta & Martin Schwartz Drs. Carol & Terry Winograd Aileen Menkin Marilyn Sefchovich Marsha & John Witkin Elizabeth & William Menkin Jerome Shapiro Elise & Dennis Wolf Sylvia & Leonard Metz Tzvia & Reuven Shelef Roni & Andy Wolfe Dalia & Alvin Milgram Susan Cohen & Leonard Shen Wendy Wu Ruth Miller Inna Sigal & Alexander Shlifshteyn Patty Yalowich Bonnie Slavitt Moore & Jack Moore Sima Shore Yanovsky Family Janine & Austin Moore Haya & Shmuel Shottan Lourdes & Frank Yashar Cohava & Jacob (Kobi) Mor Shmuel Shultz Rhoda & Larry Yelowitz Vanina J. Sandel Mutchnik & Yulia Shvarts Liliya & Igor Yunerman Sharon Mutchnik Lil Silberstein Rimma Zaraysky Susan & Gary Nankin Ken Silver Zimberoff Family Trust Ronee & Ike Nassi Sandra Silver Beryl Zimberoff Josephine & Scott Nelson Barbara & David Silverstein Phyllis & Jerry Zis 27 The Great Chair Roundup

Douglas Brook Elizabeth & William Menkin Linda & Barry Brummer Bonnie Slavitt Moore & Carol Cassell Jack Moore Financial Redistribution Committee Andrew Passett Deborah & David Hoffman Robin & Martin Rauchwerk Jacqueline & Charles Klein Liza & Ilya Slain Tanya Lorien Lisa & Nathan Stein Sandra & David Mayer Georgette & Alan Tanenbaum Patricia & Alan Werba

Contributions Contributions are vital to the life of our community. We acknowledge the gifts received between October 1 – 31, 2016 from the following individuals and families.

Annual Campaign Congregation Beth David Endowment Fund In memory of my grandmother, Manya Vaynerman, from In honor of the Beth David staff for High Holy Day Igor Yunerman preparation, from Daniel & Bettina Rosenberg In memory of my mother, Polina Yunerman, from Igor Yunerman Congregation Beth David Fund Stephen & Helaine Green, congratulations on Colette's Balk Family Camp Scholarship Fund naming, from Barry & Risa Quon Charles & Barbara Taubman, in honor of your 50th wedding Rabbi Leslie Alexander and family, in memory of Rabbi anniversary, from Harvey & Ellen Gold Theodore (Ted) Alexander, from Alex & Sondra Jussi & Lena Rajna, in honor of your 50th wedding Goldberger anniversary, from Harvey & Ellen Gold Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi Yael Alcheck, in memory of your brother, Rafi Reiser, from Ted Alexander, from Brent & Susan Hailpern Kenneth & Sandi Bretz In honor of Dan Skilken, from Debbie Friedman Leonard & Jane Jacobson, in honor of your granddaughter, Harvey & Ina Checkman, in honor of your 50th anniversary, Catherine Jacobson becoming a Bat Mitzvah, from from Harry & Joanne Cornbleet Kenneth & Sandi Bretz Lance Glasser, in memory of your mother, Selma Glasser, Congregation Beth David Bible and Siddur and from Harry & Joanne Cornbleet Mahzor Fund Yael Alcheck, in memory of your brother, Rafi Reiser, from In memory of my mother, Winifred Beer Ojibway, from Leonard & Jane Jacobson Denise Goldberg Yael Alcheck, in memory of your brother, Rafi Reiser, from

Congregation Beth David Capital Campaign Michael & Elaine Hamilton Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi Rabbi Daniel Pressman, in memory of your mother, Marilyn Ted Alexander, from Eric & Sheryl Lewis Pressman, from Michael & Elaine Hamilton Jerome Zis, in memory of your wife, Phyllis Zis, our first Philip Alexander, in honor of you mentoring Jacob Labovitz California friend and adopted family member, from & Gabi Labovitz, from Steven Labovitz & Lauren Flato Sherman & Vivian Golub Sandra Mayer, for heartfelt refuah sheleimah, from Ellen & Lance & Wendy J Glasser, in memory of your mother & Bob Tobin mother-in-law, Selma Glasser, from Arye & Barbara In memory of my father, Harold Seymour Farfel, from Elise Green Wolf Sara Dashevsky, in memory of your husband, Boris In memory of my mother, Chaya Adler, from Preeva Dashevsky, from Arye & Barbara Green Tramiel In memory of Sylvia's beloved father, Dave Krieger, from In memory of my parents, Sara & Isaac Benardo, from Leonard & Sylvia Metz Susan Wesson In memory of my father, Semyon Yunerman, from Igor Frank Yashar & Family, in memory of your mother, Sheba Yunerman Malek Yashar, from Sam Moghimi. In honor of the Timecapsule project, from Alvin & Dalia Congregation Beth David, from Michael Baer Milgram 28 Contributions (Continued)

Director of Lifelong Learning Discretionary Fund Dan & Nancy Skilken and Lori Kahn, from Arye & In memory of my father & mother, Oscar Yoel Hurwitz & Barbara Green Anna Hurwitz, from Betty Becker Co-sponsor Simḥat Torah kiddush luncheon in honor of

JET (Jewish Education for Teens) Dan & Nancy Skilken and Lori Kahn, from William & Cathy Beyda Monique Alexander, in honor of you mentoring Gabi & Co-sponsor Simḥat Torah kiddush luncheon in honor of Jake Labovitz, from Steven Labovitz & Lauren Flato Dan & Nancy Skilken and Lori Kahn, from Joshua & Jewish Education Program/JET Scholarship Fund Jillian Rosenberg Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi Co-sponsor Simḥat Torah kiddush luncheon in honor of Ted Alexander, from Edward & Eleanor Kiss Dan & Nancy Skilken and Lori Kahn, from David & In memory of my husband, Bela Kraus, from Anna Kraus Ziva Fishman & Family Co-sponsor Simḥat Torah kiddush luncheon in honor of In memory of my grandfather, Yakov Pinhasovich Tsesin, Dan & Nancy Skilken and Lori Kahn, from William & from Liliya Yunerman Joyce Halper Happy New Year and thank you for allowing me to Co-sponsor Simḥat Torah kiddush luncheon in honor of Dan participate during the holidays, from Anita Kanel & Nancy Skilken and Lori Kahn, from Opher & Naomi Kiddush Lunch Harel Sponsor Kiddush lunch on September 3, 2016 in honor of In fond memory of all our relatives listed in the 5777 Yizkor Jacob’s & Gabi’s B'nai Mitzvah, from Steven Labovitz Book, from Steven & Pamela Levin & Lauren Flato Micah Rosenheim & Family, in memory of your father, Don Sponsor Kiddush lunch on Sukkot in honor of Rabbi Rosenheim, from Vivian Herman Pressman, Rabbi Ohriner, Rabbi Alexander and Sukkot, In honor of Rabbi Leslie Alexander, from Dov & Madelyn from Dov & Madelyn Isaacs Isaacs Sponsor kiddush lunch on October 29, 2016 in honor of Yael Alcheck, in memory of your brother, Rafi Reiser, from Riva's Bat Mitzvah, from Aleksandr Mikhlin & Elena Marc & Paula Levitt Darevsky Harvey & Ina Checkman, in honor of your 50th wedding Co-sponsor Simḥat Torah kiddush luncheon in honor of anniversary, from Lee & Susan Gavens Dan & Nancy Skilken and Lori Kahn, from James & Jussi & Lena Rajna, in honor of your 50th anniversary, from Elizabeth Batson Kenneth & Sandi Bretz Co-sponsor Simḥat Torah kiddush luncheon in honor of Lance Glasser, in memory of your mother, Selma Glasser, Dan & Nancy Skilken and Lori Kahn, from Jeffrey from David & Deborah Hoffman Warwick & Marjorie Alpert Mr. Walter Spector, in honor of your birthday, from Charles Co-sponsor Simḥat Torah kiddush luncheon in honor of & Miriam Marr Dan & Nancy Skilken and Lori Kahn, from Chris & In memory of my mother, Anne Kline, from Rhoda Bress Carol Cassell In memory of my beloved grandfather, Joseph Carr, from Co-sponsor Simḥat Torah kiddush luncheon in honor of Sheryl Rattner Dan & Nancy Skilken and Lori Kahn, from David & In memory of my wife, Elena Falkova, from Rafail Perelman Deborah Hoffman In memory of my father, Laszlo Rajna, from Jussi Rajna Co-sponsor Simḥat Torah kiddush luncheon in honor of In memory of my cousin, Magda Porjesz Endredi, from Jussi Dan & Nancy Skilken and Lori Kahn, from Andrew Rajna Passett In memory of my aunt, Margit Rendl Rajna, from Jussi Rajna Co-sponsor Simḥat Torah kiddush luncheon in honor of In memory of my sister, Julia Rajna Trasmonte, from Jussi Dan & Nancy Skilken and Lori Kahn, from Amir & Rajna Sharon Horovitz In memory of my mother, Margit Schneer Rajna, from Jussi Co-sponsor Simḥat Torah kiddush luncheon in honor of Rajna Dan & Nancy Skilken and Lori Kahn, from Ronald & In memory of our parents, Dorothy and Jerry Gold and Audria Alison Ruebusch and Joseph Davies, from Michael & Jane Gold

Co-sponsor Simḥat Torah kiddush luncheon in honor of March of the Living Fund Dan & Nancy Skilken and Lori Kahn, from Jack Moore Frank & Lourdes Yashar & Family, in memory of your & Bonnie Slavitt Moore mother, Sheba Malek Yashar, from Koorosh & Kathy Co-sponsor Simḥat Torah kiddush luncheon in honor of Moghimi Dan & Nancy Skilken and Lori Kahn, from Dov & Frank & Lourdes Yashar & Family, in memory of your Madelyn Isaacs mother, Sheba Malek Yashar, from Myles & Mitra Berman Co-sponsor Simḥat Torah kiddush luncheon in honor of Rabbi Alexander Discretionary Fund 29 Contributions (Continued)

Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi Goodman Ted Alexander, from Martin & Rhoda Bress Rabbi Leslie Alexander, from Brent & Susan Hailpern

Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi Rabbi Ohriner Discretionary Fund Ted Alexander, from Natalie Schriger Rabbi Shoshana Ohriner, in appreciation of your leadership Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi at Tot Shabbat and High Holy Day services, from Martin Ted Alexander, from Jason & Michele Balaban & Rhoda Bress Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi In honor of the B'nai Mitzvah of Gabrielle & Jacob Ted Alexander, from Elie & Yael Alcheck Labovitz, from Steven Labovitz & Lauren Flato Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi Joel Zussman, in memory of your wife, Marianne Zussman, Ted Alexander, from Harry & Joanne Cornbleet from Ari & Deborah Katz Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi Philip Ohriner, in honor of your High Holy Day Ted Alexander, from Vivian Herman teachings, from Daniel & Bettina Rosenberg Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi In memory of my mother, Genia Harari, from Eli Harari Ted Alexander, from Michael & Elaine Hamilton Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your loving father, In memory of my mother, Winifred Beer Ojibway, from Rabbi Ted Alexander, from Marc & Paula Levitt Denise Goldberg Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi In memory of my mother, Sheina Guta Agroskin, from Ted Alexander, from Maxie & Helen Baer Yakov Agroskin Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi In memory of my grandfather, Boris Genuchovich Gilman, Ted Alexander, from Leonard & Sylvia Metz from Liliya Yunerman Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi In memory of my cousin, Marshall Berger, from Maxie Baer Ted Alexander, from George Steres & Cheryl Rabbi Philip Ohriner, from Stephen & Helaine Green Zatkin-Steres Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi Rama Strod Education Fund Ted Alexander, from Ann Greenspan Yael Alcheck, in memory of your brother, Rafi Reiser, from Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi Barry & Linda Brummer Ted Alexander, from Barry & Rochelle Alhadeff In memory of my father, Moshe Ben Mazal Ashkenazi, from Herzel Ashkenazi Jane Gold, in memory of your father, Joseph Potter Davies, Jr., from Barry & Rochelle Alhadeff Robert E. Levinson Memorial Library Fund Lily Draa & Family, in memory of Ida Frenkel, from Barry Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi & Rochelle Alhadeff Ted Alexander, from Charles & Barbara Taubman Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi Rama Strod, for refuah sheleimah, thinking about you and Ted Alexander, from Victor & Ruth Brill sending good wishes, from Kenneth & Sandi Bretz Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi Sandy Mayer, for refuah sheleimah, thinking about you and Ted Alexander, from Kenneth & Sandi Bretz sending good wishes, from Kenneth & Sandi Bretz Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi Miriam Marr, for refuah sheleimah, thinking about you and Ted Alexander, from Marilyn Sefchovich sending good wishes, from Kenneth & Sandi Bretz Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi Jerome Zis, in memory of your wife, Phyllis Zis, from Ted Alexander, from Arye & Barbara Green Havura Shelanu Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi In memory of my mother, Ruth Wilson, from Marlene Kass Ted Alexander, from Terry Mostowitz Roth In memory of my sister-in-law, Celia Brickel, from Marlene Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi Kass

Ted Alexander, from Stephen & Helaine Green Varadi Youth Education Fund Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi Jerome Zis, in memory of your wife, Phyllis Zis, from Ted Alexander, from Alan & Mary Jo Bernard Andrew & Judith Varadi Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your father, Rabbi Maryn Schiffmiller Nachshen, in memory of Paul Ted Alexander, from Charles & Miriam Marr Nachshen, from Andrew & Judith Varadi Rabbi Leslie Alexander, in memory of your beloved father, Rabbi Ted Alexander, from Daniel & Bettina Rosenberg In loving memory of Sandi's mother, Rita Silber, from Kenneth & Sandi Bretz In loving memory of Len's father, Sam Metz, from Leonard & Sylvia Metz In memory of my step-father, Al Steffen, from Marilyn 30

Donor(s): (If donor is a Beth David member, you may leave address blank) Name______Address______Street City State Zip In honor/memory of______

Acknowledge this donation to: (If acknowledgement goes to Beth David members, you may leave address blank) Name______Address______Street City State Zip Donation Amount $______or check one of the following:______$18 ______$36 ______$72 ______$108

_____ The Next 50 _____ Annual _____ Area of Capital Campaign Campaign Greatest Need

Billing: (Choose One) ______Check/Payment attached, please process directly ______Bill my account for the above amount and process immediately. Account # ______Note: For a complete list of designated funds, please call the office at 408-257-3333

Officers President Dan Skilken [email protected] Executive VP Bill Beyda [email protected] Administration VP Sandra Mayer [email protected] Education VP Lori Kahn [email protected] Finance VP Andrew Passett [email protected] Membership VP Jeff Warwick [email protected] Ritual VP David Fishman [email protected] Recording Secretary Madelyn Isaacs [email protected] Treasurer Ian Kass [email protected] Financial Secretary Ron Ruebusch [email protected]

General Immed. Past President David Hoffman Social Action Chair Carol Cassell Director at Large Elizabeth Batson Youth Chair Sharon Horovitz Director at Large Opher Harel Facilities Chair Lee Hirsch Director at Large Bonnie Slavitt Moore Finance Rep Bill Halper Director at Large Cathy Beyda Adult Education Rep Susan Rojo Director at Large Jill Rosenberg Program Chair Barbara Green Director at Large Allison Ruebusch Sisterhood Rep Barbara Knaster Men’s Club Rep Art Singer

31 Congregation Beth David Nonprofit Org 19700 Prospect Road U.S. Postage Saratoga, CA 95070-3352 PAID Permit No. 94 Change service requested Cupertino, CA

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Current Issues Facing Israel and the Middle East Tuesday, December 6th, 7:30 - 9:00pm Israel faces serious challenges in a region in turmoil. Ravit Baer, the Deputy Consul General of Israel, will discuss current issues affecting Israel and the Middle East. See page 9

Young Adults Hanukkah Happiness Tuesday, December 6th, 6:30pm - Midnight For young adults (22-35). Bring some Hanukkah happiness to the residents of Hatikvah House in Campbell (a home for developmentally disabled Jewish adults) by joining them for an informal Hanukkah party (crafts, dreidels, singing, and Hanukkah nosh). Then head down town to continue your pre-Hanukkah happiness at one of the cool pubs in DT Campbell. See page 13

A Happy Hanukkah Happening Friday, December 16th, 6:30 - 9:00pm Kick back at this relaxing Kabbalat Shabbat experience. It will be an easy going evening of socializing, singing, good food and a happy, upbeat, Kabbalat Shabbat service. ALL AGES are welcome to share an enjoyable Pre-Hanukkah experience. See page 21