8 10 30

CUBA COMMEMORATING MIZRAHI JEWRY HOW TO EAT CHANUKAH SUFGANIYOT WITHOUT GUILT

Communitywide Workshop Focuses on Building Jewish Relationships, Not Just Jewish Institutions p. 7 19 Federation Around Town p. 9

Federation Announces Allocation to Hillel at Chico p. 13

CVHEN Features “Liberation Remembered: A Conversation” p. 14

UC Graduate Student Union Sponsors BDS Referendum p. 15

New Book Looks at Life and Leisure in Israel p. 17

Federation Board Member Reappointed to Insurance Board p. 23

Sitting Down with National Jewish Book 2014 Annual Report Award Winner, Maggie Anton p. 24

The ‘Golden Age’ of Jewish Genealogy is Celebrated Locally with a Silver Anniversary p. 25

2 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 Breathing Life Into Our Jewish Community the VOICE is a publication of The Jewish I was recently in Venice, Italy and visited debates and disputes. It needs to eat and Federation of the Sacramento Region. the “Nuovo Ghetto,” the quarter where the drink, literally and figuratively, from all that Jewish community lived, from the Middle life has to give and take. It needs synagogues, The Jewish Federation of the Sacramento Region Ages until Italian unification in 1861 confined schools, and programs for the young and the 2130 21st St., | Sacramento, CA 95818 | every evening behind locked gates. It was old and everybody in between. And it needs Phone: 916-486-0906 | once a teeming place but is now almost a central address, the place that knits its Fax: 916-441-1662 | deserted, with only a handful of Jewish essential elements into a cohesive whole. Email: [email protected] | residents living there— most of them That central address is our Federation. Website: jewishsac.org foreigners attending a small Yeshiva and a Chabad house— surrounded by ordinary A Jewish community doesn’t thrive by Executive Director | Melissa Chapman | Italians. In the larger Venice region, the accident. It is nurtured by people who feel an [email protected] | ext. 301 Jewish community numbers about 500 obligation to give of themselves, whether it Managing Editor | Elissa Provance | people and there are still religious services is financially or of their time. Our Federation [email protected] | ext. 304 performed at two of the Ghetto’s five ancient cannot meet the needs of Sacramento’s Designer | Kyle Shine | [email protected] synagogues, where they switch between Jewish community without your help. Our one in the summer and one in the winter. 2015 Annual Campaign has begun and we Board of Trustees The other synagogues are relics, part of a will be asking for your help. When that letter Executive Committee: President, Barry museum set, a moment frozen in time. In the arrives in the mail, when that volunteer calls Broad | Campaign Co Chair, Bob Dresser | Ghetto square, there is a small memorial to you, please be generous, so that our Jewish Campaign Co-Chair, Carol Loew | Treasurer, Jews of Venice who were rounded up and community can thrive and grow. Jack Mador | Leadership Development Chair, transported to the death camps in 1943 and Lauren Zimmerman a permanent police presence in a bunker-like Members-At-Large: Gil Allon | Cliff Berg | building that is a constant reminder of today’s Phil Fine | Don Gilbert | Deborah Gonzalez | threats. There’s a kosher restaurant and a Ryan Pessah | David Poisner | Sue Sperber | few shops, all of which are there to serve the Brian Uslan tourists, not the Jews of Venice. the VOICE is published four times annually Touring the empty synagogues and listening by Gold Country Media. Opinions expressed to the non-Jewish tour guide describe dryly herein do not necessarily reflect those of the how the Jewish community of Venice once Jewish Federation. We are not responsible lived, left me a little sad. I think the other for the kashrut of any advertiser’s product dozen or so people on the tour— most of or establishment. the VOICE reserves whom were Jewish— felt the same way. It the right to refuse advertising or any was like visiting a beautiful old cemetery, a submissions for publication. The publication place where the dead and their memories of a paid advertisement does not constitute outnumber the living. an endorsement of any candidate, political party, or political position by the Jewish A Jewish community must be a living, Federation. Barry Broad is the President of the breathing organism. It needs its passionate Jewish Federation.

3 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 population, and significantly greater needs. We LOOKING BACK, LOOKING FORWARD face a new form of anti-Semitism cloaked in anti-Israel rhetoric, Jews fleeing from Europe, The 2014 Annual Campaign, which has already The 2014 Annual Meeting of the Jewish and murders in Kansas and Florida. But we raised more than $415,000, officially closes on Federation took place on September 4, 2014, all signed up for the job. It is our imperative December 31st. While we are still trying to reach a few days after the prior issue of the VOICE to ask the difficult questions and often make $450,000 for the 2014 campaign, our 2015 arrived at your doorstep. While we run a tight difficult decisions. The Federation system is Campaign efforts have already begun. Yes, program, we were able to share a year’s worth here to respond as a collective, unified voice; to we have the exciting job of trying to run two of incredible, hard work with personal stories, empower and protect Jews in need wherever campaigns at once! accomplishments, facts, and dreams. they are; to stand up and ensure justice; to engage and connect the community; and to At last year’s meeting, we announced the In this issue of the VOICE, we are proud to create a Jewish future. It is our job to fit the official return of Jewish Family Service as a share our 2014 Annual Report. We want it to puzzle pieces of our community together. offer a snapshot of where your dollars go and program of the Federation. In the past year, how they impact real lives. But a framework is we have moved from resource and referral important, too, so below is a sampling of the to direct service. Thanks to our Federation thoughts I shared on September 4th. Assistant Director, Elissa Provance, who oversees JFS; Alicia Mittleman, our 20-hour Good evening and welcome to the 2014 per week Community Social Worker; a very Annual Meeting of The Jewish Federation generous anonymous donor; and a group of of the Sacramento Region. Thank you for incredible volunteers, we have been able to joining us to reflect on a year of tremendous create a strong and wide-ranging portfolio accomplishments and to thank all of our of services from mud, sticks, and stubborn leaders, volunteers, and donors for allowing us dedication. to serve the community. We have also seen the community come We are proud to host the first Annual Meeting together through the JCFW Life and Legacy Melissa Chapman is the Executive Director in our beautiful new home. We enjoyed our program, which encourages community of the Jewish Federation. time on Capitol Avenue, but having something members to consider endowments, bequests, that all of us can call our own is very different. and other forms of planned giving. This Since purchasing the building in November, program has enabled all of our institutions to and moving in December, we’ve been able work together while setting up a foundation to host a variety of programs and events for a strong Jewish tomorrow. In a few short for the entire community— JFS support months, Federation has become the proud groups; Jewish meditation; monthly meetings recipient of 24 Letters of Intent including a of the Sacramento Area Board of Rabbis; newly-established Jewish Family Service Intro to Judaism; training for the JCFW Endowment, indicating the community’s Communitywide Legacy Program; internal and renewed faith in the Federation and our partnership community organization Board services. meetings; PJ Library Playgroup; a program for college-bound teens; the Shalom School We hope our community continues to Board Retreat; and a security briefing for respond so that next year, we can report community institutions. on our balanced budget and increased Annual Campaign. Just imagine what we can We are thankful that our community partners accomplish with additional funding. On your have been so generous in embracing 2130 21st chairs, you will find a snapshot of all we have St. as the central address for our community. done by working together this year. We hope Each doorway has a beautiful mezuzah you feel as proud as we do about the wide donated by our community institutions… range of programs and services we are able to from Tahoe to Chico! offer with an intensely streamlined budget and staff. In addition to all of this, our 2014 budget saw more than $100,000 in savings and our 2015 It is important to thank our unbelievable Board budget is projected to be in the black for the led by Barry Broad, volunteers, and staff. The first time in many years, mainly due to this work we do isn’t easy. We deal with dwindling wonderful new building. donations, less engaged generations, an aging

4 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 Rededicating Ourselves to Our Community

As a parent, one of my fundamental goals On December 7th, Dr. Ron Wolfson, author community of Cuba earlier this year and has been to raise responsible, caring, of Relational Judaism: Using the Power is encouraging others to join Federation’s hardworking kids who would learn the skills of Relationships to Transform the Jewish Mission to Cuba in the Spring 2015, or a new they needed to move through the world and Community, is coming to our community to book about life and leisure in Israel by Chico become responsible, caring, hardworking facilitate a discussion about how to build State Professors Michael Leitner and Sara adults. It was all about creating a solid lasting relationships within our synagogues Leitner, or information about our Leisure foundation based on values, principles, and and Jewish institutions. Weeks before the League day trip in February to an El Dorado ethics. deadline, nearly 100 community members County winery owned by Turkish Jews. have registered! Would I change some of the decisions I’ve And what would a Jewish newspaper be made along the way as a parent? Of course Interested in what our next generation without a food section? While we can’t claim I would. I suspect we all would. But I’ve of leaders is doing? You can read about chef Jamie Geller as our own, we can at learned that one bad decision does not a how Jewish students at UC Berkeley and least enjoy her different takes on sufganiyot! failure make— child or parent. It’s about Davis, among other UCs, are fighting a But if you need instant gratification, building that strong foundation that will union referendum calling for the boycott, consider joining the Jewish Genealogical withstand our occasional mishaps. divestment, and sanctions against the State Society of Sacramento, which is serving of Israel, or how a small but mighty Hillel at cake at its December meeting in celebration The same could be said for raising Chico State University is bringing students of its 25th anniversary. a community. We have an incredible together for leadership opportunities, community here in the Sacramento region. learning, and camaraderie. Speaking of Chanukah, as we celebrate the Sure, it’s easy to look at the glass as if it Festival of Lights, let’s rededicate ourselves were half empty— no Jewish Community Looking for educational opportunities? to making our community all it can be. Let’s Center, no fancy van to drive our seniors Come and hear George Rooks, who look at our glass as half full and build upon around, no Jewish group home for those lives part-time in Israel, talk about "Life the strong foundation we have all helped to who have disabilities, no network of young Under Fire" on December 3rd. In January, build and make it even stronger. Jews who remain here long term, no Jewish Holocaust scholars Drs. Murray Baumgarten deli— but it is just as easy to pay attention and Peter Kenez will lead a dialogue to what we do have. And one look at this commemorating the 70th anniversary of the issue of the VOICE shows it. liberation of the concentration camps and in November, National Jewish Book Award winner Maggie Anton visited two area synagogues.

There’s even information about travel, including a conversation with a Federation Elissa Provance is the Assistant Director of Board member who the Jewish Federation and Managing Editor visited the Jewish of the VOICE.

5 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 Furthermore, the JCRC maintains strong JCRC Serves support for the State of Israel and its right to exist in peace and security. In order to as Advocate for achieve these objectives, the JCRC plans to educate and advocate on issues of vital importance to the Jewish community, Vital Jewish based on core American values and a living commitment to Jewish ethics of social Community Issues justice. by Ryan Pessah In October, our Public Affairs committee The Sacramento Jewish Community held a voter forum called “Bagels and Under Fire” with George Rooks, a part- Relations Council (JCRC) is a division of Ballots.” The event hosted representatives time resident in Israel and Davis, to give a the Jewish Federation of the Sacramento who supported and opposed State ballot presentation about life in Israel under the Region. The JCRC is structured to function measures 45 and 46 and Sacramento’s relentless Hamas rocket fire. The event will as a working board comprised of four Strong Mayor Initiative also known as take place on December 3rd at 6:00pm at committees. The Board is represented Measure L. the Jewish Federation. by members of Jewish organizations around our community and individuals Other JCRC committees include Campus If any of the JCRC Committees are of who are passionate about improving the Affairs, Education, and Israel. Our Campus interest to you, please reach out to me. I Sacramento Jewish community. Affairs Committee has been working on its encourage members of our community to second annual College Bound program to participate in our committees. Our responsibilities include acting help high school students locate Jewish as the public relations, public policy, resources on college campuses. The Israel Ryan Pessah is Chair of the JCRC. He may be and advocacy arm of the Federation. Affairs Committee will be hosting “Life reached at [email protected].

6 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 “He was extending such energy and was so “The 20th-century model is not working,” Communitywide welcoming and compelling,” the Rabbi of he explained, referring to the current model Congregation Beth Shalom in Carmichael of Jewish communal engagement which is Workshop Focuses recalled, describing how Wolfson set the stage transactional and focuses on programs as on Building Jewish for teaching what Wechsler-Azen said was a way to create involvement. “We have to “what it means to make a place ‘goodly.’ He talk about other ways of approaching folks, Relationships, Not Just was mirroring his own message.” especially those who wouldn’t naturally approach a synagogue. If you have a group Jewish Institutions Fast forward to December 7, 2014 when of friends, chances are you’ll stick around the entire Sacramento Region will have the even if your original reason for engaging was opportunity to hear Wolfson’s message— transactional.” which, at its core is understanding the difference between “transactional Judaism Wolfson’s definition of relational Judaism is “an and relational Judaism”— at a communitywide approach to engaging people that’s built on workshop sponsored by the Sacramento face-to-face relationships that lead individuals Board of Rabbis, the Union for Reform and families to engage with Judaism on a Judaism, and the Jewish Federation of the level that offers a sense of meaning, purpose, Sacramento Region. belonging, and blessing.” This contrasts with transactional Judaism, which may include “Ron Wolfson says, ‘People will come for planning a Bar/Bat Mitzvah, attending to end- programs but stay for relationships,’” noted of-life issues for yourself or a parent, having Rabbi Greg Wolfe of Congregation Bet a bris or a baby naming, or commemorating Haverim in Davis who is co-leading the effort any other number of Jewish milestones or Dr. Ron Wolfson with Wechsler-Azen and who asked, “Are traditions that occur during one’s life. Wolfson we building those relationships or are we a would argue that once a “transaction” has Several years ago, Rabbi Nancy Wechsler- revolving door? Are we enhancing people’s been completed, a person or family often feels Azen attended a spirituality workshop and lives and creating a sense of purpose? What they don’t need the synagogue anymore but was greeted by an outstretched hand offering would it be like if we could all do something that’s not the answer. The answer is creating chocolate. That hand belonged to Dr. Ron together and build relationships beyond our opportunities for deeper engagement in Wolfson, author of Relational Judaism: Using own synagogues?” Judaism itself and creating a value around the Power of Relationships to Transform the belonging. Jewish Community. Wolfson, a Fingerhut Professor of Education for the Graduate “It’s not hard to quit an institution, but it’s hard Center for Education; to quit friends,” he quipped. a faculty member at American Jewish Wolfe and Wechsler-Azen envision the University; a frequent workshop as an opportunity to create core scholar-in-residence; teams to develop concrete and productive and Co-Founder ideas, from how office staff greets people to and Co-President moving toward a language of engagement of Synagogue to creating welcoming environments for 3000, an institute everything from adult education to religious whose mission is to services. catalyze excellence in synagogue life, “We need to figure out a way to actualize all of has understood that and it must be done in a relational way,” the importance of Wechsler-Azen said. “We are all ambassadors relationships since for Judaism. Our relationships with one another his involvement are the essential core of Judaism flourishing in youth groups and surviving in the 21st century.” in his hometown of Omaha, where The Communitywide Workshop on Relational Judaism he forged deep is December 7, 2014 at Congregation Beth Shalom, and decades-long 4746 El Camino Ave., Carmichael, from 3:00-6:00pm. relationships with a Light refreshments served and child care available group of friends who (donations appreciated). Ron Wolfson’s books will sang together in the be available for sale. The event is free; however, choir, chanted Torah registration is required by December 1st at www. together, and called jewishsac.org/relational. themselves “The Bunch.”

7 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 discrimination was between city dwellers from Havana versus those from the countryside. But Jews can practice their religion freely, wear Stars of David, and not worry about security for their institutions.

the VOICE: What are the challenges in the Cuban Jewish community? DG: When asked, they will say their biggest challenge is “losing their young people.” It is actually bittersweet. Due to relaxed restrictions during Raul Castro’s regime, Cuban Jews have been participating in Birthright, March of the Living, and the Maccabi Games, sponsored C U B A by Canada. Consequently, some have been allowed to make aliyah— generally not the Deborah Gonzalez (left) and her mother, Taffy Hoffman, during their Spring 2014 trip to Cuba. physicians or people “important to the country.” Here, they finally reconnected with their faith in Jewish Federation Board member Deborah generally the home of the community leader. the mid-1990s and now the future generation is Gonzalez joined her mother, Taffy Hoffman, for a The synagogues are converted homes and leaving. trip to Cuba with the Jewish Community Center the entire community gathers for Shabbat, of San Francisco in the spring. Deborah shares holidays, and Sunday school for adults and the VOICE: Why would you recommend visiting? parts of her journey with the VOICE— both the children. Almost every family has at least one DG: Visiting small communities— some as pleasant surprises and unique challenges— member who either converted to Judaism or small as 25 people— shows them that they and hopes to encourage Sacramento Jewish is not Jewish. But in general, there are more have support from their Jewish family. Life community members to join the Jewish similarities between the two countries. The continues to be very difficult in Cuba: food Federation’s mission in May 2015. same holidays are observed; there is a focus is rationed; there is government surveillance on the Friday night service and communal permeating every aspect of life; medications the VOICE: What prompted your visit to Cuba? meals; there is a heavy focus on educating both are limited; and one cannot choose one’s Deborah Gonzalez: Since I married someone of children and adults; and people look out for education or where one lives after receiving a Cuban heritage, I have always wanted to visit one another. degree. By visiting these communities, we are the homeland his family talked about. However, letting them know they are not alone in their like many ex-pats outside of Florida, they didn’t the VOICE: What were Jewish sites that stood out? struggle to survive. Here are people who have want to “support the regime” by returning, even DG: El Patronato (Beth Shalom), the largest limited resources and yet they maintain the though they still have family there. My mother synagogue in Havana, is home to a same traditions we maintain. They value their learned about the Jewish Community Center of pharmacy that is used by the entire Jewish ancestry as well as their future. San Francisco (JCCSF) trip and suggested that community across the island nation. While we travel together. This was my opportunity to preventative medical care is a focus of the the VOICE: Why was the trip valuable? visit the island nation legally, and to help the Cuban government, there is poor access to DG: I learned the importance of the Joint Jewish community as well. medications. Medicine is one of the most Distribution Committee (JDC), which is what important items that groups visiting can bring. a portion of our Federation dollars support. the VOICE: How were you greeted in the Jewish The Sephardic synagogue in Havana is home I never knew what “The Joint” did and that community? to an adult day care program. In addition, our local dollars supported this work on the DG: Open arms! Every community we visited they have an impressive, extensive Holocaust ground, but visiting Cuba I saw their efforts welcomed us singing “Heveinu Shalom exhibit that traces the emigration of families in action. It is due to the JDC that there is Aleichem.” They prepared modest meals for from Europe to Cuba. In addition, as is part medication; chicken dinner on Friday nights us and were eager to show off their knowledge of our tradition, every community throughout provided by “Project pollo” (the only meat they and love of Judaism through Israeli folkdance the nation has a dedicated Jewish cemetery. can usually get with their ration cards is pork); and song. They shared the history of their The cemetery we visited that serves the access to trips to Israel; educational materials; community— where the founding families came communities of Santiago and Guantanamo, and food for Passover. Without the JDC, the from, how many members at their largest, and suffered damage from Hurricane Sandy. Jewish communities of Cuba would be even how many have made aliyah— and proudly more isolated and would not have any of the displayed the ritual objects they’ve collected the VOICE: What surprised you? resources they currently have. I also learned and used over the years. The communities DG: There is no anti-Semitism in Cuba. In the how important it is for the Jewish communities outside of Havana rarely receive Jewish tour communist era, religion was discouraged. of Cuba to meet Jews from around the world. groups, therefore, our group was especially Since the Soviet Union collapsed, there appreciated. has been a rebirth of religion— unlike many The Jewish Federation of the Sacramento Region Latin American countries, Cuba is not is organizing a mission to Cuba in partnership with How does the Cuban Jewish community overwhelmingly Catholic; many Cubans follow the VOICE: the JCCSF from May 28-June 4, 2015. For more differ from American Jewish communities? the native Afro-Caribbean traditions along with information or to reserve your space, contact DG: I would say that outside of Havana, the the other world religions. The Cuban people Federation Executive Director Melissa Chapman main difference between American Jewish respect one another regardless of religion at 916-486-0906 ext. 301 or mchapman@ communities and Cuban ones is that the or race and there is so much intermarriage jewishsac.org. central location for each community is between races and faiths. The only discernible

8 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 Federation Around Town

NEARLY 200 COMMUNITY MEMBERS CAME OUT TO CHEER ON MACCABI HAIFA DURING A PRE-SEASON GAME AGAINST THE SACRAMENTO KINGS.

LEISURE LEAGUE SENIOR PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS ARE ALL RACHEL HOLLAND (CENTER) TALKS ABOUT LIVING ON HER OWN SMILES, WHETHER THEY ATTEND THE PROGRAM IN SACRAMENTO, DURING A SPECIAL TRANSITION PROGRAM ORGANIZED BY ORANGEVALE, OR DAVIS! FEDERATION’S COMMITTEE ON INCLUSION AND DISABILITIES.

CALIFORNIA VOTERS RESIDENTS AT THE ALBERT FILLED THE ROOM EINSTEIN RESIDENCE CENTER DURING “BAGELS AND SHARED THE SUKKAH AND BALLOTS” TO LEARN A SUKKOT STORY WITH PJ ABOUT PROPOSITIONS LIBRARY FAMILIES. AND MEASURES.

9 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 COMMEMORATING MIZRAHI JEWRY

November 30, 2014 marks Israel’s first Kenesset passed a bill designating the official “Day of Commemoration” for the “Day of Commemoration.” The bill entails 850,000 Mizrahi refugees— Jews who were commemoration events and the inclusion displaced from Arab countries and Iran in the 20th of Mizrahi history into Israeli schools’ curriculum.* century, bringing an abrupt and damaging near-end to the VOICE wanted to recognize the presence of Mizrahi their 2,500-year presence in the Arab world. The date Jewry in our community. was officially recognized in June 2014, when the Israeli *Source: Jews Indigenous to the Middle East and Africa, www.jimena.org.

10 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 Mona Alfi, Iran, Iraq Mordechai Darf, Yemen Martin & Sylvia Abel Mourad, Egypt Family member(s): Shafick Alfi, my father. All Family member(s): Entire extended Darf and Family member(s): Moussa, Elie, Regina, Elene, of my father’s brothers and their children moved Saadi families including my parents Sholomo Aziz, Harry, Alfred, and Hafez Mourad; Rachel, to the United States in the 1960s and 1970s; my and Sarah Darf; my grandparents, Zachariah and Esther, Eyvette, Victoria, Elie, and Moussa Cohen; last cousin left Iran in the 1990s. My father’s two Saada Darf; and Zacharia and Roumia Saadi. Mary, Fortunee, Denise, and David Abel; and Elie, sisters left Iran in the 1950s and moved to Israel. Year you or your family left: 1949. Sabet, Farag, Barackat, Leoni, and Joseph Ovadia. Year you or your family left: My father left in Country you or your family emigrated to: Year you or your family left: 1964. 1949, most of the family left Iran in the 1970s. Israel Country you or your family emigrated to: Country you or your family emigrated to: USA United States Mehrnaz Halimi, Iran Family member(s): Ezra & Dina Alfi (my Family member(s): Mehrnaz Halimi. Ryan Pessah, Egypt grandparents), Eliyahu & Rachel Alfi (my great- grandparents). Year you or your family left: 1973. Family member(s): Mira, Mazel, Shoshana, Elana, Moshe, Esther, Vered, Shookie, Sarah, Avi, Year you or your family left: They left Country you or your family emigrated to: USA Bennie, and Amenon Marzuk. Benjamin, Joe, Jack, Baghdad around WWI, and went to Iran. Jackie, Sheila, Roger, and Henri Pessah. Country you or your family emigrated to: Susan Marcus Halperin, Aleppo (Syria) Year you or your family left: Mira’s family left Iran around 1958; Benjamin’s family left in 1968 and Family member(s): Our grandfather, Abraham 1970. Ezra Amir, Iraq Issac Marcus and his parents, Issac Marcus and Rena Salem. Country you or your family emigrated to: Family member(s): Parents, Kadoory and Mira’s family emigrated to Israel; Benjamin’s family Masuda; and brothers, Amnon, Sh’lomo, Yosef, and Year you or your family left: Circa 1919. emigrated to France and then San Francisco. Hanania. Country you or your family emigrated to: USA via the port of Alexandria, Egypt Year you or your family left: 1946, 1949, and Hilda Sadigh & Jack Harouni, Iran 1950. Family member(s): 25 family members. Country you or your family emigrated to: Daniel Khazzoom, Iran Palestine/Israel Family member(s): Parents, self, and sister. Year you or your family left: 1986 (Hilda); 1977 (Jack). Year you or your family left: 1951. Melissa Chapman, Egypt Country you or your family emigrated to: Country you or your family emigrated to: USA Family member(s): Great grandmother Jermela Israel Mizrachi with children Ahuva, Avramino, Chaim, and Sima (in utero). Monica Melamed Spilkin, Iraq Joseph Melamed, Iraq Year you or your family left: 1927. Family member(s): Yehuda, Regina, Berta, Family member(s): Ruchama, Joseph, Eli, Joseph, and Berta Moalem; Naomi, Jacob, Ezra, Country you or your family emigrated to: Dina, and Simcha Menashe. Nissim, Clara, Mordecai, and Ovadiah Kalif. Hannah, Yehuda, Israel Joseph, and Vera Moalem (Melamed). Moshe, Rachel, Mordecai, and Tzion Tzion. T’fachah, wife (name unknown), Joseph, and four more Shlomo, Clara, and two other daughters whose Avraham Danan, Morocco children (names unknown) Moalem (Melamed). names we do not know at the time, Marizada. Ovadiah, wife, (name unknown), Joseph, Moshe, Family member(s): Avraham, all of his siblings, and four more children (names unknown) Year you or your family left: 1942. and his parents. Moalem, (Melamed). At least 12 additional family Country you or your family emigrated to: Year you or your family left: 1963. members. Israel Country you or your family emigrated to: Year you or your family left: 1950. Israel Country you or your family emigrated to: Israel LEGEND

EGYPT IRAQ IRAN MOROCCO SYRIA YEMEN

11 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 While you and your family are at home lighting the menorah, the gelt you give to Federation is brightening lives locally and around the world.

Your gelt helps the most vulnerable, such as those who access our Kosher Food Pantry, counseling services, or senior programs. Your gelt helps us create a strong Jewish identity by supporting Jewish education, literacy, young leaders, and Jewish life on campus. Your gelt helps us advocate for Israel by mobilizing in her time of need and combating delegitimazation efforts. Your gelt helps us celebrate our heritage and peoplehood. So this Chanukah, give what gelt you can to Federation. It will brighten your holiday to see how far it goes.

www.jewishsac.org/donate

12 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 about $2,500 annually, “but we are active and recruit members. One such non-profit has and have a family atmosphere for students. been Chico Peace and Justice, which created Federation That’s why it’s important for Hillel at Chico to anti-Israel billboards that lined the Chico exist. That’s what I talk about when I attend skyline earlier this fall. conferences. I talk about our story. Students Announces are meeting peer-to-peer and developing “I’ve never heard of other campuses allowing lifelong relationships.” community non-profits to enter campus,” she remarked. “Usually, only recognized student Having a presence on campus since 1986, organizations are allowed. Our Hillel Board Allocation to following a grant written by Chico State will be discussing how to address this at our Professors Michael and Sara Leitner, Hillel at next meeting. Students have not reported any Chico currently reaches approximately 600 activity but we want to be prepared. Hillel at Hillel at Chico students indirectly each year through tabling, Chico is very visible. We have Israeli flags all weekly emails, and other outreach activities, over our table and large promotional flags with and 40 students directly 3-40 times through Jewish figures.” regular Thursday evening meetings and dinner; monthly guest speakers including Jewish Hillel at Chico is also involved with faculty from Chico State; and other ongoing Congregation Beth Israel (CBI), which has activities. Leitner has served as the Faculty a full-time Rabbi (Julie Danan); a Chevra Advisor since its inception. Kadisha; and visiting scholars among other programs and services. Many of Bergson’s “I mainly advise Kristy and her students,” Hillel colleagues and Board members are he said, acknowledging how the Jewish also involved in CBI and she serves as CBI’s Federation’s allocation will ultimately benefit Sisterhood President. the students. “Kristy is really in charge and does more than I even know about.” “For being such a small Jewish community,” Chico State Hillel students at a weekend retreat in she said, “we are highly active.” Lassen National Park. Of the Federation allocation, Bergson said, At its September Board meeting, The Jewish “It helps create a foundation as I’m doing For more information about Hillel at Chico, contact Bergson at [email protected]. Federation of the Sacramento Region outreach and it will help me greatly in meeting approved an annual allocation to support the the needs of students.” California State University (CSU), Chico, Hillel. For the Hillel at Chico, this is one in a long line One of Bergson’s goals is to have a space large of firsts during the 2014-15 academic year. enough to host Shabbat dinners, including food preparation and challah baking. Currently, In addition to her mission to “Create fun and food is prepared at private homes and then interesting Jewish programs that students are brought to a rented 600-square-foot apartment eager to attend,” plus write grants, prepare that serves as the Hillel House. financial reports, supervise interns, and oversee general operations— all in 15 hours per Federation President Barry Broad explained week— Hillel at Chico Executive Director Kristy the importance of supporting Jewish campus Bresette Bergson said this year she has had a organizations at a time when anti-Israel unique opportunity to compete for funds from rhetoric on college campuses and, oftentimes a Long Beach Hillel donor who is interested in the classroom, is common nationwide. in assisting small Jewish organizations with operational funds; watch the creation of Alpha “Jewish students are on the front lines against Epsilon Pi, a Jewish fraternity, by a few Chico the movement to delegitimize Israel and they State students; hold a weekend retreat for 19 need all of the support that we can offer,” he students at Lassen National Park thanks to the said. generosity of a Hillel Board member; attend an Israel Advocacy Conference in Los Angeles; Hillel at Chico also partners with pro-Israel and host a welcome brunch during Chico’s organizations such as StandWithUs and Parent Weekend. the Israel Campus Coalition for advocacy training. A new rule that Bergson said, “has “We are small and have a smaller Jewish taken our breath away,” is one that allows population in a rural area with limited community non-profits to enter campus and resources,” Bergson said, noting that her table, meaning having a designated area where funding does not cover program costs equaling student organizations can distribute literature

13 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 CVHEN Features Liberation Remembered: A Conversation literature helps us understand history and vice versa.”

Sharing the podium also allows for the presentation of diverse perspectives to participants of different backgrounds, thus making the class infinitely more interesting.

“Because of the continued conversation, people who are listening have to explore problems and issues,” Kenez said. “We don’t give them answers. We ask them questions.”

While reticent to talk about his personal story, even noting how he becomes Dr. Murray Baumgarten Dr. Peter Kenez “strangely wordless” when asked, the Harvard-educated Kenez explained, “Extraordinary circumstances produce Two Holocaust scholars will lead a perspectives. It’s not flat and longitudinal. extraordinary behavior and that becomes community discussion commemorating It’s what a productive discussion can be.” relevant for understanding humanity and the 70th anniversary of the liberation of what humans are capable of doing. It’s the concentration camps. Dr. Murray Using their combined expertise in history a universal story. You don’t have to be Baumgarten, a Distinguished Professor of and literature as well as their personal Jewish.” English & Comparative Literature and Co- perspectives— Kenez grew up under Director of Jewish Studies at the University Nazism and Communism in Hungary and Igra hopes the program will remind the of California Santa Cruz (UCSC), and Dr. Baumgarten was conceived in Vienna and community that we are still post-liberation Peter Kenez, a historian specializing in born en route to Panama after his family and that the impact of liberation is as Russian and Eastern European History and fled— the conversation will include, among evident now as it was in 1945. Professor Emeritus of History at UCSC, other things, a discussion of Fatelessness have nearly a century of teaching between by the Nobel Prize-winning author Imre “The Holocaust did not end with liberation,” them. Both colleagues and comrades, the Kertesz and the recently published diary of she said. “We to need to know the true pair has been teaching the Holocaust for Rywka Pipszyc, a Jewish teenage girl who nature of liberation and its effect on history more than 30 years, including a 10-module wrote a personal diary while in the Lodz now. We need a deeper understanding online course. Ghetto. of the Holocaust, liberation, and what’s happened since, not as spectators but as “They are able to use personal “I’m interested in how the Holocaust seeing ourselves along the continuum. By perspectives and literature as well as has changed modern literature,” saying, ‘Enough already,’ we are missing historical context to help see multifaceted Baumgarten said. “It changed the forms an opportunity for understanding ourselves perspectives,” said Liz Igra, President of and conventions of fiction and how we and our current history.” the Central Valley Holocaust Educators’ look at the world through fiction. There Network (CVHEN), which is sponsoring the is a notion of a people’s story rather Liberation Remembered: A Conversation is January 17, 2015 at the KOH Library and Cultural event. “There are many ways of looking than an individual’s story. It’s about Center, 2300 Sierra Blvd., Sacramento at 7:00pm. at history— universal to personal and how memory functions and becomes a For more information or to RSVP, contact Igra at intellectual to almost subliminal. They really public experience, not just an individual’s [email protected]. can highlight the complexity of history experience. One reason (Peter and I) teach and importance of seeing it from many together is to raise questions about how

14 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 An initial lukewarm response was followed by antithetical to the most basic principles of UC Graduate Student Union a lack of response. the labor movement than for a union to call Sponsors BDS Referendum for actions which are intended to do harm Using telephone, email, Facebook, and to the economic security of other union Twitter, Informed Grads reached out to members. We would find it difficult to ask our likeminded students who believe that the members to support your union in a labor referendum is problematic because, among dispute with the University of California so other potential outcomes, it weakens long as you are engaged in activities that are academic freedom by not allowing TAs fundamentally hostile to their interests.” to present Israeli research or work with any Israeli who is a representative of the Kummerfeld, who has witnessed a number government or a government institution. of protests and a pro-Palestinian “die-in” as well as heard chants of “long live the UC Davis graduate student Brent Ghan was intifada” on the Berkeley campus, added one of those students. that, in addition to weakening academic freedom, the movement is counterproductive “I’m afraid that even if this doesn’t pass, to the Middle East peace process. signing the pledge to join the academic A referendum calling for an end to U.S. boycott means we are not providing students “While (BDS) is careful to come across as military aid and divestment from Israel is up the world class education that we deserve,” all about rights, if you look carefully, the for a vote on December 4, 2014. he said. “This would give TAs more freedom goal is a one-state solution,” he explained. to push the BDS agenda in the classroom.” “Being opposed to a two-state solution is not UAW local 2865, which represents 13,000 constructive. We must teach our students Teachers Assistants (TAs), Readers, and Now studying for his Master’s in Accounting, about this issue. We have a contract with the Tutors at the University of California, is Ghan is all too familiar with BDS and its University. We decide what we want to teach sponsoring the referendum related to tactics. As a UC Davis undergraduate who and how we teach it. The Union should not boycotting, divesting, and sanctioning (BDS) was active in the pro-Israel campus group be saying what we teach.” the State of Israel. The ballot also calls for Aggies for Israel and Alpha Epsilon Pi its members to sign a “pledge” committing (AEPi, an international Jewish fraternity), he The Ph.D. candidate in Computer Science themselves to a personal academic boycott. was acutely aware of organizations such admitted that the vast majority of Union as Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP), members are not invested in Israel- Mobilizing opposition is Informed Grads, a which, for example, hosted Omar Barghouti, Palestinian relations or what the University grassroots organization created this past founding member of the Palestinian should do, making it that much more summer following the UAW’s announcement Campaign for the Academic and Cultural important for the Union to provide balanced that its Joint Council was endorsing BDS, Boycott of Israel known as BDS, and worked information. Kummerfeld said Informed a worldwide movement designed to isolate tirelessly to oppose resolutions that were Grads has been hearing from students who and delegitimize the Jewish State through brought before the Student Senate calling are concerned about expressing pro-Israel cultural and academic boycotts and promote for the University to divest from the Jewish positions in the classroom. divestment from companies that do business State— two in as many years. with Israel. “Can they speak freely or will a TA penalize “BDS has really ramped up on campus in them?” he asked. “The immediate announcement was the past two years,” the San Jose native inappropriate— a local labor union should be said, citing “Anti-Apartheid Week” and the Ghan expressed fallout from his own Israel working on important workplace conditions increased number of anti-Israel speakers advocacy efforts, becoming known on and not international politics,” said Jonathan as evidence of SJP’s increasing presence UC Davis’ campus as pro-Israel and anti- Kummerfeld, a graduate student and and influence. He hopes to bring speakers BDS. And his experience is the rule, not the Research Assistant at UC Berkeley who has to campus who expose the truth about BDS, exception. taken on the role of media spokesperson noting, “It’s not a neutral position or a path to for the newly-formed group. “The way that peace.” “I have friends at almost every other unions work is through collective action. We UC campus and AEPi brothers who are work together. This divides us.” The California Teamsters Public Affairs experiencing things like this,” he noted. “I am Council agreed. In a letter addressed to one of the only people in the Union at Davis Kummerfeld contacted the Union with his Michelle Gowla, President of UAW Local that’s against the BDS resolution. It’s an concerns, which included the one-sided 2685, and its Executive Board, International uphill battle.” perspective emailed to UAW members and Vice Presidents Randy Cammack and Rome the dissemination of political ideology, such A. Aloise stated, “Whatever your motives, we For more information about Informed Grads and as referring to Israel as an apartheid state, as cannot conceive of an action more hostile the outcome of the December vote, visit www. well as a request for prior meeting minutes. to the interests of our members and more informedgrads.org.

15 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 16 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 New Book Looks at Life and Leisure in Israel

Pick up any book about Israel in the “There are things that exist in Israel past 20 years and you can pretty that don’t exist in other countries such much guarantee it will be about war, as Kibbutzim or life in the desert or terrorism, or politics. Not so with life and leisure under rocket fire such Israeli Life and Leisure in the 21st as in Sderot,” said Leitner. “Israel Century, a new book by California also has unique programs such as State University, Chico, Professors the National Tennis Center, walking Michael Leitner and Sara Leitner. programs, and a vast network of dog parks. Israel is also the only country “There has been nothing in-depth with a Jewish majority, where the about Israeli life and society and holidays that are celebrated nationally nothing to portray Israel in a positive are Jewish holidays. The fabric and light,” Leitner explained. “I want structure of life is different.” to change the direction of the conversation about Israel. Not just Several chapters cover Israeli sports combat the current messages but to programs that promote peace and create our own messages.” improved relations between Arabs and Jews such as an Ultimate Frisbee Leitner is referring to the onslaught program or Ice Hockey for Peace. of anti-Israel and anti-Zionism The research chapters investigate rhetoric by the Boycott, Divestment, extreme sports, women and sports, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, how leisure is presented in Israeli especially on college campuses and films, and how Israelis use leisure to especially in the aftermath of this cope with stress such as when they summer’s Operation Protective Edge. are faced with rocket fire. According to the Anti-Defamation League’s report, Anti-Israel Activity on “This was one of the most meaningful Campus After Operation Protective chapters,” noted Leitner, who Edge: A Preview of the 2014-2015 happened to be in Israel during the Academic Year, published in October, summer war between Israel and “So far in this academic year, there Hamas. have been more than 90 anti-Israel events integrated soccer programs with more than scheduled to take place on U.S. campuses, 40,000 Jewish and Arab Israeli children. Leitner envisions this book as not only one double the 45 events scheduled during the for the popular market but one that can be same period last year.” Israeli Life and Leisure has 50 Israeli presented to Birthright or study abroad contributing authors and an endorsement participants prior to their trip or to teens Leitner is no stranger to the subject of by Shimon Peres, which says, “Michael and confirmation classes to learn about the leisure, having earned a Master’s and and Sara Leitner’s in-depth research about Jewish State. Ph.D. in Recreation from the University of leisure in Israel is notable in its scope and Maryland. Nor is he a stranger to the land reach.” The book is organized into six parts Referring back to BDS, he said, “We are not of Israel. In addition to being a professor that examine various aspects of Israeli fighting BDS directly, but as a way to educate in the Modern Jewish and Israel Studies leisure from how Israelis spend their free the 80 percent that know little or nothing Program and the Department of Recreation, or “unobligated” time to their quality of life; about Israel in a non-confrontational way. Hospitality, and Parks Management at Chico unique aspects of life and leisure in the Israel is a real country with real people. If you State, he teaches a course in the Conflict Jewish State to promoting peace through see it for what it is, there is no way you can Management Department of Ben Gurion leisure activities to diversity in leisure such as support BDS.” University entitled, “Evaluation of Peace among the Ultra-Orthodox or special needs Education Sports Programs” and also directs community; service provision, for example, Israeli Life and Leisure in the 21st Century is Israel’s Mifalot program’s “United Soccer the national park system and sustainable available at www.sagamorepublishing.com. for Peace,” which trains Arab and Jewish tourism to research into happiness, sports, soccer coaches who eventually will conduct vacation, and multicultural perspectives. 17 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 18 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 2014 ANNUAL REPORT JULY 01, 2013 - JUNE 30, 2014 BOARD OF TRUSTEES BARRY BROAD, PRESIDENT • ALAN STEINBERG, SECRETARY • JACK MADOR, TREASURER BOB DRESSER, CAMPAIGN CO-CHAIR • CAROL LOEW, CAMPAIGN CO-CHAIR LAUREN ZIMMERMAN, LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT CHAIR • LISA KAPLAN, IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT MEMBERS AT LARGE GIL ALLON • HAL EISENBERG • PHIL FINE • LYDIA INGHRAM • COLMAR MOSELEY MARGI PARK-LANDAU • DAVID POISNER • SUE SPERBER • BRIAN USLAN

19 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 2014 ANNUAL REPORT JULY 01, 2013 - JUNE 30, 2014

500: Inquiries 18: Community 1,480: responded to by programs that Subsidized the Community took place during meals at Leisure Social Worker Jewish Disability League Senior Awareness Programs Month

500: Pounds of 30: Participants 400: Bags of food distributed by of various goodies delivered 85: Jewish organizations, the Kosher Food facilitated support through our Holiday including JCRC, that participated Pantry groups Outreach Baskets in the Jewish Public Affairs Committee’s Advocacy Day 3,600: Kosher Shabbat dinners served at the new Hillel House 110: Volunteer hours recorded

758: Kids in the Sacramento area who received PJ Library books and music 50: Jewish educators who attended the annual Sacramento Area Jewish Educators’ inservice 10: Trees in the Sister City Friendship Garden after planting 18: Students enrolled in a flowering almond tree to represent Ashkelon, Israel Introduction to Judaism 60: B’nai Mitzvah teens who received a Teen Israel 100,000: New dollars certificate good toward a peer trip to Israel offered to high school 5,000: Scholarship dollars for a college student in our seniors through the Partnership 2Gether Region in Israel Schwab-Rosenhouse Memorial Scholarship 153: Number of Federations that make up Jewish Fund Federations of North America 200: Cards made by 70: Countries in which the Joint Distribution Committee Shalom School students provides rescue and relief for JFS Holiday Outreach 80: Years the Jewish Agency for Israel has supported aliyah Baskets and immigration absorption

20 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 2014 ANNUAL REPORT JULY 01, 2013 - JUNE 30, 2014

J 24: Letters of Intent received through the Jewish Community Foundation of the West’s Life and Legacy Program

85: Jewish organizations, 800: People touched by including JCRC, that participated the annual Yom HaShoah in the Jewish Public Affairs Communitywide Commemoration Committee’s Advocacy Day 2,000: 1,200: 150: 18: Jewish institutions trained 3,600: Kosher Shabbat dinners and updated about security Participants in the annual People reached at various Emerging Jewish Leaders served at the new Hillel House protocol Jewish Heritage Festival: community programs who connected through Celebrating Israel Facebook

Community leaders who receive monthly 10: Trees in the Sister City Friendship Garden after planting 99 Federation updates a flowering almond tree to represent Ashkelon, Israel 60: B’nai Mitzvah teens who received a Teen Israel certificate good toward a peer trip to Israel Households Weekly subscribers connected to the who kept current 5,000: Scholarship dollars for a college student in our greater community on community

5,700 via the VOICE programs Partnership 2Gether Region in Israel 4,000 153: Number of Federations that make up Jewish Federations of North America 70: Countries in which the Joint Distribution Committee provides rescue and relief 80: Years the Jewish Agency for Israel has supported aliyah and immigration absorption

21 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE

“I didn’t make a decision to join the group easily. At those times when I could move beyond experiencing my sorrow and actually think about how to deal with it, I imagined I could work my way through it on my own— that time, as so many people say, would ‘heal.’ But everything I did was no more than a distraction and nothing “To pursue higher education has changed, no matter how much love and affection always been my dream, and because I was blessed with from my children and other of the Schwab-Rosenhouse Memorial family and friends. So as the months went by, Scholarship Fund, I was able to I began thinking I might need professional help complete my undergraduate degree “The Hillel House and perhaps it was fortuitous, maybe some at Davis is truly the with double majors at UC Berkeley. I center for Jewish life other ‘magical’ coincidence, that almost 18 on campus. Many of months after [my husband’s death], I read the am strengthened by the opportunities my most meaningful Federation’s notices that a Jewish Family Service you have given me, and am driven to relationships on this bereavement group was forming and signed up.” give back so that I may continue the “I had an amazing campus were formed under its roof. The generosity I received a few years ago.” time on the USY facility is beautiful, — BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT Pilgrimage trip. It and the professional — JOFIL BORJA, was an unforgettable staff welcomes GROUP PARTICIPANT experience. It is students with open UC BERKELEY CLASS OF 2012 wonderful that the arms and lots of food. Federation makes Thank you to the these donations to Jewish Federation for help teenagers travel all of its support over the years.” to Israel.” — ADAM GILBERT, — DANNY ELIAHU, AGE 16 UC DAVIS STUDENT “the VOICE puts the New York Times, the “The Jewish Chicago Tribune, and the Sacramento Bee to shame. Heritage Festival It is gorgeous, enticing, is a very fun and exciting, engaging! WOW!” exciting gathering.” — SUE SPERBER, — SASHA STEINBERG, FEDERATION AGE 10 BOARD MEMBER

2130 21st St., Sacramento • 916-486-0906 • www.jewishsac.org

22 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 Federation Board Member Reappointed to Insurance Board dollar paid in benefits, making California’s economic impact estimated at about $21 billion. „„ In 2013, 2.9 million initial unemployment insurance claims were filed, of which 362,047 were appealed, yielding a rate of one appeal for every eight initial claims processed in California.

As the CUIAB Chair, Dresser oversees the operations of the Chief Judge and Appellate Office, including monitoring staffing needs and caseloads. He noted that California’s unemployment rate has fallen from 10% to 7% and with that, the CUIAB’s caseloads have dropped from 420,000 in 2013 to fewer than 350,000 in 2014.

“That is huge... It means the Bob Dresser difference between being

Jewish Federation Board Member, Dresser is one of three on this Board who able to pay rent or buying Bob Dresser, has been reappointed as was appointed by the governor; the other clothing for a child.” a member and Chair of the California two members were appointed by the Unemployment Insurance Appeals Board Senate pro Tem and the House Speaker, “Fewer appeals means people are not filing (CUIAB). Created by the Legislature respectively. If a claimant disagrees with for unemployment,” he explained, adding in 1943, the CUIAB is an independent the final decision of the CUIAB, he or she that after more than 12 years, the CUIAB administrative court system for workers may appeal to the California Superior has been released from corrective action and employers who challenge decisions Court. from the Department of Labor, meaning made by the Employment Development caseloads are being addressed on time. Department (EDD). The scale of CUIAB’s work is illustrated “This is a significant achievement.” by the following:* “We rule on appeals by EDD, which grants „„ In December 2013, California far This upward trend also translates into either insurance or disability benefits to exceeded the nation with 1,532,000 approximately $50 billion being pumped claimants,” Dresser explained. “If EDD Californians out of work. into the State economy. says a claimant is entitled but an employer „„ In December 2013, California’s 8.3% th disagrees, they can appeal.” unemployment rate was 5 highest in “That is huge,” Dresser said. “It means the the nation behind only Rhode Island difference between being able to pay rent Until recently, 240 judges heard appeal (9.1%), Nevada (8.8%), Illinois (8.6 %), or buying clothing for a child. Whenever cases, however, that cadre recently and Michigan (8.4 %). the Board operates efficiently, we are was cut to about 180 due to diminished „„ EDD paid out about $10.5 billion in serving the people well.” caseloads, an indication of a recovering unemployment insurance benefits economy. If parties want to appeal further, in Calendar Year 2013. The U.S. For more information about the CUIAB, visit cases are sent to a CUIAB five-member Department of Labor estimates the www.cuiab.gov. Board for a second level of review. economic multiplier is $2 for every *Souce: www.cuiab.gov. 23 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 Sitting Down with National Jewish Book Award Winner, Maggie Anton Maggie Anton, the award-winning archeologists have uncovered author of the historical fiction series amulets and incantation bowls Rashi's Daughters and Rav Hisda's with Hebrew script and quotes Daughter, as well as a Talmudic from the Torah clearly written on scholar with expertise in Jewish them. Women were empowered— women’s history, spoke at Mosaic they wore tzitzit and were doing Law Congregation on November ritual circumcision. They were an 16th and Congregation B’nai Israel important part of the community. on November 18th. Born Margaret These women were sorceresses, Antonofsky in Los Angeles, where not old ladies like witches with she still resides, Anton was raised pointy hats living in gingerbread in a secular household and reached houses. These were educated and adulthood with little knowledge literate women. of her Jewish religion. All that changed when David Parkhurst, the VOICE: Why don’t more who was to become her husband, people know about the role of entered her life, and they both magic in the Talmud? discovered Judaism as adults. She MA: Until recently, Talmud study sat down with the VOICE to discuss was limited to those few scholars her latest book, Enchantress: A who were fluent in Aramaic Novel of Rav Hisda’s Daughter. and attended yeshiva. They concentrated on the sections the VOICE: What was the debating Jewish law, and paid inspiration for this new book? less attention to the others. Still, Maggie Anton: The inspiration scholars aware of the passages was a piece of Talmud about Rav on magic preferred to ignore Hisda’s daughter, a child in 3rd - them, embarrassed to admit that century Babylonia who is sitting in the great sages engaged in such his classroom. He calls up his two “nonsense.” best students and asks her who she wants to marry. She rises to the VOICE: You spoke to two the occasion and replies, “Both of Sacramento synagogues in them.” What a girl! What a woman! November. What was the What audacity! I really wanted to takeaway for these audiences? know her story so I researched her MA: Ever since Rashi’s Daughters, and this time period. I’ve wanted women and liberal Jews to study the Torah. For 1,500 the VOICE: You researched what years, the text has been forbidden the Talmud says about sorcery. to women. My point is to be What did you find? knowledgeable and know what’s MA: I found out that magic was behind Jewish law. When we get to ubiquitous. There were genies; the source of Jewish tradition, we the term, “open sesame;” flying get to see how Judaism happens. carpets; even the word “magic” originated here from the word the VOICE: The Enchantress “magi.” Jews had self-rule and series has ended. What is your “magi” was well-known to rabbis. next project? Ancient Jewish magic is one of the MA: I’m not exactly sure but there hottest topics in Judaism. There is are characters from another time a vast amount of magic and sorcery rattling around in my head! that is the province of the woman, for example, healing and protection Enchantress is available at amazon.com from the evil eye. Women are and Barnes and Noble. considered healers. Additionally,

24 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 The ‘Golden Age’ of Jewish Genealogy is Celebrated Locally with a Silver Anniversary

The family stories of Judy Persin, Victoria Council of Jewish Women. A cadre of 6-7 and events and memories that make us Fisch, and Mort Rumberg couldn’t be interested people grew into the current who we are.” more different but they all led to the same attendance of 20-25 people each month. thing— the discovery of people and places Both Rumberg and Fisch, who turned heretofore unknown to them. The founder, Among those long-term attendees are her hobby into a 20-year profession as President, and Past President of the Jewish Fisch and Rumberg. a genealogical researcher, described the current times as the ‘golden age’ Genealogical Society of Sacramento “Genealogy has been becoming more (JGSS), respectively, shared different family of genealogy due to the influx of online and more popular,” said Rumberg. “Not searchable databases and people treasures they found as a result of their only does it teach you about history, but genealogical research. Persin traced her scrambling to document their family histories about how people lived and what they did before it’s too late. family tree to the pre-Revolutionary War; and how that influenced the individual Fisch to documentation that a missing family. It’s not just about dates. It’s about “People who may have had direct memories uncle fought in Spain; and Rumberg to the background, who the person knew, other of the family or of the old country are dying,” knowledge that he had 22 cousins. These historical events. That’s what makes Fisch said. “Who can recapture those oral are just a few of the genealogical gems that genealogy come alive. You can be born in histories?” have been uncovered since the JGSS was one country, grow up in a second country, created 25 years ago. live life in a third country, and die in a Toward that end, the JGSS President is interested in encouraging and recruiting “As someone who started the group from fourth country, having never left your house because of changing borders.” others— specifically people in their nothing, it’s been amazing to watch it grow,” 30s-40s— to document their family histories, Persin said of the devotees who meet For Rumberg, the flood gates of especially because of privacy concerns monthly to hear a variety of presentations, information opened when he discovered being raised about online resources, which from research strategies to how to digitize handwritten documents penned by his are at risk of being shut down. information to discoveries of family mother and the discovery that her parents heirlooms. “It’s like watching your child divorced in 1921— a “no, no” for the time “At some point in life, people start wondering, grow.” said the JGSS Past President. Soon he was ‘Where do I come from?’ or ‘What makes me able to piece together information about who I am?’” Persin explained. “Genealogy Persin, who is now JGSS’s interim Treasurer, helps answer those questions.” was researching her own family history and her seven siblings, who he didn’t know that of her husband’s when she realized existed, and 22 cousins, five of whom he The JGSS meets monthly at the Albert Einstein Sacramento did not offer anything in the has since met. Residence Center, 1935 Wright St., Sacramento at 10:00am. The next meeting is December 14, 2014, way of Jewish genealogy or ethnic research. “Genealogy hasn’t changed how I am or She proceeded on her own and began when the JGSS presents “Genealogy Jeopardy.” how I approach things but I have a greater Cake will be served to celebrate the group’s giving presentations about her findings to, understanding of humanity and how we for example, Mosaic Law Congregation’s 25th anniversary. For more information, contact overcame difficulties,” he said. “That’s [email protected]. Sisterhood, Hadassah, and the National opened my eyes. It’s a full scope of people

25 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 WELCOME NEW FEDERATION BOARD MEMBERS!

The Jewish Federation of the Sacramento Region is pleased to welcome the following community members to our Board.

Cliff Berg: A member of Congregation Beth Shalom, Cliff Deborah Gonzalez: Deborah has served as Co- has served previously on the Federation Board as well as the Jewish Chair of Federation’s Committee on Inclusion and Disabilities since Community Relations Council. He is the President of Governmental 2011. She currently serves as a member of the Camp Ramah of Advocates, working as a lobbyist for the Jewish Public Affairs Northern California Board of Trustees and Chair of the Mosaic Law Committee and The Simon Wiesenthal Center. Congregation (MLC) Youth Commission. She previously served on MLC’s Board for eight years, two as President. Don Gilbert: Don is returning to the Federation Board after 20 years and currently serves on AIPAC’s Northern California Board. Ryan Pessah: Ryan currently serves as Chair of the He served on the Shalom Community Day School Board for 15 years, Jewish Community Relations Council, a division of the Jewish including 3 years as Board President. Don also served on the Board Federation. He is a Consultant with the Legislative Jewish Caucus of the Jewish Community Foundation of the West. He is Managing and co-founded Capital Knesset, a networking meeting of Jewish Partner in the legislative advocacy firm of Edelstein Gilbert Robson legislators and staffers as well as interested community members. & Smith, LLC.

26 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 27 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 SAVE THE DATE!

Communitywide Yom Hashoah Commemoration April 19, 2015 | 7:00pm

Congregation B'nai Israel | 3600 Riverside Blvd., Sacramento

Sponsored by the Jewish Community Relations Council

If you would like to honor the memory of loved ones by placing their names in the Yom Hashoah Book of Remembrance, contact Sharon Sugerman and [email protected].

28 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 2015 JEWISH HERITAGE FESTIVAL

SAVE THE DATE! SUNDAY, MAY 17, 2015 RALEY FIELD, 1-5PM FEATURING THE MACCABEATS!

CELEBRATING ISRAEL!

29 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 How to Eat Chanukah Sufganiyot Without Guilt

These baked donuts taste more like cake since they are not fried, but they are still very tasty. In addition, they use the healthier option of whole-wheat flour. Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Ready Time: 30 minutes Servings: 12 mini donuts Ingredients: Baked “Sufganiyot” Jelly Donuts 1 cup white whole wheat flour Another recipe that forgoes frying in oil. 3 tablespoons corn meal 1 teaspoon orange zest Prep Time: approximately 2 hours 1/4 cup + 3 tablespoons sugar Cook Time: 10-12 minutes by Jaime Geller/JNS.org 1 teaspoon baking powder Ready Time: approximately 2-3 hours 1/2 teaspoon salt Servings: 24 donuts The average Chanukah sufganiya 3 tablespoons liquid coconut oil (jelly donut) has between 300 and 400 6 tablespoons coconut milk mixed with 1 Ingredients: calories of nearly pure oil and fat. In teaspoon lemon or vinegar 1 (1/4 ounce) package rapid rise dry yeast honor of the miracle G-d bestowed on the 1 egg white 1 tablespoon sugar Maccabees, making oil meant for just a 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 cup warm water day last eight days, the delicious donut 1/2 cups chopped fresh cranberries 1 egg yolk and other traditionally oily Chanukah 1 egg foods become annual killers for your For the Glaze: 1/4 cup sugar diet. For those who are health conscious 1/4 cup fresh cranberries 1 cup 1% milk, warmed but do not want to be deprived of the 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed orange juice 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour annual treat, here are three healthier 1/4 teaspoon vanilla Pinch of salt recipes selected from Joyofkosher. 3/4 cup powdered sugar 3 tablespoons margarine or butter, cut into 9 com. Consider substituting or reducing pieces ingredients further as needed for your Directions: Cooking spray diet. 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease 3/4-1 cup strawberry jam a nonstick mini donut pan with cooking Confectioners’ sugar for dusting spray and set aside. 2. In a large bowl, whisk the flour, cornmeal, Directions: orange zest, sugar, baking powder, and 1. Dissolve the yeast with the 1 tablespoon salt together. of the sugar in 1/4 cup warm water. 3. In a small bowl whisk the coconut oil, 2. In a standing mixer with a paddle, beat the coconut milk mixture, egg white, and egg yolk, egg, yeast mixture, 1/4 cup of vanilla together. Add the wet and dry sugar, and milk. ingredients and fold in until just mixed, 3. With paddle going, add flour and salt. and add chopped cranberries. Stir until 4. Add margarine one piece at a time. Dough just mixed. Spoon into donut pan. should be sticky but elastic. 4. Bake for 12-14 minutes. 5. Turn out dough onto floured surface. 5. Make glaze. While donuts cool, in a Knead once or twice. Shape into ball. small saucepan heat the cranberries Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and place and orange juice until they burst about 5 in a warm area for at least an hour or until Baked Whole Wheat Cranberry minutes. Remove from heat, mash berries dough is doubled. Orange Donuts with fork, add powdered sugar and vanilla 6. Lightly grease 2 baking sheets. Contributed by: Tamar Genger MA, RD stir well. Dip donut into glaze and serve. 7. Divide dough in half. With lightly oiled

30 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 hands, take approximately 2 tablespoons 1/2 cup confectioner’s sugar of dough and roll into ball. Place on 1/2 cup seedless raspberry jam greased baking sheet. 1 tablespoon orange juice 8. Repeat with remaining dough placing balls 2 inches apart (about 12 balls per Directions: baking sheet). Cover with a kitchen or 1. In a medium saucepan, heat butter, water, sugar, cinnamon, and salt, and bring to a tea towel and let rise 30 minutes. Preheat boil. Remove from the heat and add flour. oven to 375 degrees F. Return to low heat and stir with a wooden 9. Bake at 375 degrees F for 10-12 minutes spoon until the dough comes together and or until golden. Remove from oven and let forms a ball. Continue to cook for 1 minute. cool. Apple Zeppole with Jelly Dipping Sauce 2. Transfer dough to the bowl of a stand 10. Place jam in a pastry bag fitted with a Try these apple zeppole as a change over for mixer. Beat on low speed with a paddle medium pastry tip or use a small ziplock doughnuts. The recipe itself is not low-fat, but attachment for 1 minute or until cooled type of bag fitted with a medium pastry the portions are bite-sized. slightly. Add eggs one at a time. Add apple tip. Pastry tips are available at most craft and mix until just combined. stores. Prep Time: 8 minutes 3. In a heavy medium sized pan, heat oil to 11. Press tip into donut and squeeze at least Cook Time: 20 minutes 350 degrees F on a candy or deep-fry thermometer. Using a 1-teaspoon scoop, 1 teaspoon of jam into donut, or more if Ready Time: 28 minutes Servings: 12 carefully drop batter into hot oil and fry desired. until golden brown, about 5 minutes. 12. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve. Ingredients: Remove with a slotted spoon and drain 1/2 cup unsalted butter on paper towels. Repeat with remaining Tips: 1/2 cup water dough and dust with powdered sugar. If you don’t have a standing mixer, use a 1/4 cup granulated sugar 4. In a small bowl, whisk together jam and hand mixer for step 2 and beat the egg yolk, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon orange juice and serve with zeppole. egg, yeast mixture, sugar, and milk for about 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1 minute. Knead the rest of the ingredients 1 cup all purpose flour Jamie Geller is a bestselling cookbook author who together by hand: first the flour, then the salt 4 large eggs lives in Israel with her husband and their five kids. and margarine, one piece at a time, then 1 granny smith apple (about 1 cup), peeled and Her new book is Joy of Kosher: Fast, Fresh Family Recipes. Photo Credits: Joy of Cooking with Jamie proceed with step 5. diced Vegetable oil for frying Geller.

31 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 32 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 33 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 34 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 35 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 36 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 Jessie Yoshpe Hadassah Study Group. “G-d’s To-Do- Under Fire” presented by George Rooks. George is the List” by Dr. Ron Wolfson. First and Third Wednesday. Chair of the Israel Matters Committee at Congregation CALENDAR 9:45-11:30am. KOH Library and Cultural Center, 2300 Bet Haverim. He and his wife, Hila, live six months of Sierra Blvd., Sacramento. For more information, contact the year in Ashdod, Israel and six months in Davis. Free. RECURRING EVENTS Soni Meyer at 916-383-5743. Jewish Federation, 2130 21st St., Sacramento. To RSVP, contact [email protected] or 916-486-0906. Sundays Thursdays Men’s Tefillin Club. Every second Sunday to lay Tefillin, David Lubin Lodge, B’nai B’rith. Third Thursday of December 5, 2014. PJ Library Playgroup. Get ready learn Torah, and enjoy breakfast. 9:00-10:00am. each month. 8:00pm. Albert Einstein Residence for Chanukah! Join your friends at PJ Library as we Chabad Jewish Community Center, 302 B South Center Eatery, 1935 Wright St., Sacramento. For more welcome Rabbi Nancy from Congregation Beth Shalom Lexington Dr., Folsom. For more information, contact 916- information, contact Bernie Marks at 916-363-0122. to lead a Chanukah sing-along! 10:00-11:30am. Jewish 608-9811 or visit www.JewishFolsom.org. Jewish Women’s Support Group. Led by Zalia Lipson. Federation, 2130 21st St., Sacramento. For more information, contact [email protected]. Mondays Chabad of Roseville, 3175 Sunset Blvd., Suite 104A, Monthly discussion group led by Rabbi Melamed on Roseville. 6:45pm. $40 per session. For more information December 7, 2014. Communitywide Workshop on the second Monday of every month. KOH Library and or to register, contact 916-624-8626 or [email protected]. Relational Judaism with Guest Scholar Dr. Ron Wolfson. Cultural Center, 2300 Sierra Blvd., Sacramento. 1:30- Fridays Relationships are at the heart of vibrant communities. 2:30pm. Free. For more information, contact 916-484- Gan K’ton. For young children 18 months-5 years. Dr. Wolfson, author of Relational Judaism, shares 7333 or [email protected]. Sing, play, create, listen to, and taste all the wonders strategies for building strong communities that prioritize interpersonal connections over transactional Derech L’Chaim JACS (Jewish Alcoholics, Chemically of being Jewish, along with preparing for Shabbat. interactions. Sponsored by the Sacramento Area Board Dependent Persons, and Significant Others). 10:30- 10:00am. $10/class. Enrollment and fees required. of Rabbis and The Jewish Federation of the Sacramento 11:30am. 2nd Floor Card Room, Albert Einstein Scholarships available. Temple Or Rishon, 7755 Hazel Region. Light refreshments served. Child care available Residence Center, 1935 Wright St., Sacramento. JACS Ave., Orangevale. For more information, contact Marcia at (donations appreciated). Registration through December is based on the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous with 916-988-4100 or [email protected]. 1, 2014 at www.jewishsac.org/relational. Free (advance a Jewish focus. Confidential and anonymous. Please Tot Shabbat. Services, Singing, Storytelling, and registration required). 3:00-6:00pm. Congregation Beth contact 916-591-8608 before attending for the first time. Oneg for all children, including all who are young at Shalom, 4746 El Camino Ave., Carmichael. For more Jewish Book Club at Temple Or Rishon. Every fourth heart. 6:00pm. Temple Or Rishon, 7755 Hazel Ave., information, visit www.jewishsac.org/federationevents. Monday at 7:00pm. 7755 Hazel Ave., Orangevale. All are Orangevale. For more information, contact Marcia at 916- December 7-8, 2014. The Red Tent, a two-night welcome. For our reading list, visit www.orrishon.org, 988-4100 or [email protected]. miniseries event on Lifetime. A sweeping tale that select Programs for All Ages, then Book Club. For more Saturdays takes place during the times of the Old Testament, told information, contact Alison Braverman at 916-988-7110 or Taste of Torah. Second Saturday. Learn, laugh, sing, and through the eyes of Dinah, the daughter of Leah and [email protected]. “taste” the Torah. Free program for families with young Jacob. All-star cast includes Minnie Driver, Morena Loaves and Fishes. The third Monday of each month, children and children of all abilities. 10:30am. Temple Baccarin, Rebecca Ferguson, Iain Glen, Will Tudor, and the Jewish community serves lunch to the homeless Or Rishon, 7755 Hazel Ave., Orangevale. For more Debra Winger. 9:00pm. For more information, visit www. at Loaves and Fishes. 1321 North C St., Sacramento. information, contact Marcia at 916-988-4100 or educator@ mylifetime.com/movies/the-red-tent. Volunteer at 7:30am to help prepare food or at 10:45am orrishon.org. December 10, 2014. Leisure League at Temple Or to help serve. For more information, contact mary@ GENERAL EVENTS Rishon. The Mike & Genny Musical Variety Show. Sing- mosaiclaw.org. December 2 & 23, 2014; January 13 & 27, 2015; and play-alongs; name that tune and comedian; and Tuesdays and February 10 & 24, 2015. Jewish Meditation music trivia. From swing to rock to musicals, including Baby and Me. Program for families with children birth and Mindfulness— Building Your Spiritual Practice American standards. Carol Gunnerrson will lead to 2 years. Art, singing, movement, and fun! 10:30am. with Deni Deutsch Marshall, LCSW. Group explores Chanukah songs. $5 includes lunch and entertainment. Temple Or Rishon, 7755 Hazel Ave., Orangevale. For Jewish mindful meditation practices, both ancient and Funded by The Jewish Federation of the Sacramento more information, contact Marcia at 916-988-4100 or modern, designed to help you have a more personal Region and The Trust Fund for the Jewish Elderly. [email protected]. relationship with G-d. Guided sitting meditations, Federation is partnering with the National Council chanting meditations, and silent meditations, as well Israeli Dancing. For more information about dates and of Jewish Women (NCJW), Sacramento Section, for as a number of mindfulness techniques to practice at venue, join [email protected] this special Chanukah programs. Be one of the first home. Long-time meditators and newcomers welcome. or contact Jeanette at 916-799-7213. 50 people to RSVP and NCJW will pay for your lunch! $5/session for drop-ins; $50 for 11 sessions. 6:30- Noon-2:00pm. 7755 Hazel Ave., Orangevale. For more Wednesdays 7:30pm. Congregation B’nai Israel, 3600 Riverside Blvd., information about Leisure League or to RSVP, contact 916- Shalom Gan K’ton. For children 18 months-5 years. Sacramento. For more information, contact Deni Deutsch 486-0906 or [email protected]. 10:00am. Temple Or Rishon, 7755 Hazel Ave., Marshall at 916-684-5161 or [email protected]. Orangevale. $50/10 sessions with scholarships December 11, 2014. Jewish History in Late Antiquity: December 3, 2014. The Israel Affairs Committee of the available. For more information, contact educator@ Religious Transformation: How Ancient Jews Became Jewish Community Relations Council invites you to “Life orrishon.org. Christians with UC Davis Professor Catherine Chin.

37 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 This lecture will discuss how Jews and Christians January 11, 2015. Palestinian Incitement As An leaders; and advocating social justice and interfaith in the ancient world started to distinguish between Obstacle to Peace: Sam Levine, Executive Director of understanding in the context of Jewish values. 7:30pm their communities, as well as the ways in which they the Zionist Organization of America-West Division. How Congregation B’nai Israel, 3600 Riverside​ Blvd., continued to act as members of the same religious will peace ever be achieved when generation after Sacramento, Service, Oneg Shabbat and presentation/ group. Free. 7:00-8:30pm. Congregation B’nai Israel, generation of Palestinians are taught to hate Israel? discussion; 10:00am Torah Study Saturday, 3600 Riverside Blvd., Sacramento. For more information, Mr. Levine will offer his insights into the problem Congregation Beth Shalom, 4746 El Camino Ave., contact Melissa Grand at 916-446-4861 or mgrand@ with numerous examples ranging from items taken Carmichael; Havdallah Congregation Bet Haverim, 1715 bnais.com. from Palestinian textbooks to pronouncements by the Anderson Rd., Davis, time TBD; Temple Or Rishon, 7755 December 14, 2014. The Jewish Genealogical Society Palestinian leadership. Presented by the Israel Matters Hazel Ave., Orangevale 10:00am-Noon Sunday. Food of Sacramento (JGSS) presents “Genealogy Jeopardy.” Committee. Free. 3:00-5:00pm. Congregation Bet provided. Free. Members of the community may attend JGSS members will play a genealogy version of Haverim Social Hall, 1715 Anderson Rd., Davis. For more as many events as they choose. For more information, the famous game. Topics will focus on general information, contact [email protected]. contact Lindie Henderson or [email protected] or genealogy questions as well as some related to Jewish January 17, 2014. Jewish Soul Food: Music, Eating, visit website at www.wupj.org. genealogy research. Three JGSS members will serve and Identity in the Global Diaspora with Francesco January 25 and February 1, 2015. Tallit Workshop as contestants, and the game will feature buzzers Spagnolo from UC Berkeley. Focuses on the with Jana Stewart. Design and decorate your own and the well-known music. The occasion also marks connections between music and food, and examines personal tallit! Materials include a finished tallit base, the group’s 25th anniversary. Cake will be served! a wide variety of food-themed Jewish songs from stencils, clip art, blessing patterns, fabric dye paints, 10:00am. The Albert Einstein Residence Center, 1935 different times and places, including a 17th-century pens, and wool tzitzit. Bring fabrics and heirlooms. Wright St., Sacramento. For more information, contact Italian poem for Purim, a Sephardic song listing seven Workshop is for adults and Religious School students [email protected]. recipes to cook eggplant, a Yiddish ode to gefilte fish, who have already received their Bar/Bat Mitzvah date. December 16, 2014. PJ Library Playgroup. Come and Israeli Hebrew songs about tomatoes and, of No artistic experience necessary. Advance registration celebrate the first night of Chanukah with PJ Library! course, falafel. Francesco Spagnolo is the Curator of required by January 1st. Class size limited to 30. $40. Hear the story of how the Maccabees defeated the The Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life and a 1:00-3:00pm. Congregation B’nai Israel, 3600 Riverside Syrian army! Play dreidel with your friends and light Lecturer in the Department of Music at the UC Berkeley. Blvd., Sacramento. For more information, contact Melissa the first candle with us. We’ll have games, art, and Free. 7:00-8:30pm. Congregation B’nai Israel, 3600 Grand at 916-446-4861 or [email protected]. Riverside Blvd., Sacramento. For more information, snack! 10:00-11:30am. Jewish Federation, 2130 21st January 25, 2015. Christians United for Israel: Randy contact Melissa Grand at 916-446-4861 or mgrand@ St., Sacramento. For more information, contact mtaylor@ Neal. (Date subject to change.) As the Western Director bnais.com. jewishsac.org. of the largest pro-Israel organization in the U.S., Randy December 18, 2014. Leisure League at the Albert January 22 & 29 and February 5, 2015. Jewish will discuss his recent trips to Israel and offer his Einstein Residence Center. Tony Castle’s One-Man History in the Middle Ages: “An Eruv of the Mind: perspective on events taking place there. Presented Show. A blend of songs, stories, humor, memories and Conflict and Coexistence with Susan Aguilar. Three- by the Israel Matters Committee. Free. 3:00-4:30pm. good clean fun with its roots in the Golden Age of radio part series exploring the often contradictory nature of Congregation Bet Haverim Social Hall, 1715 Anderson and television. Cantor Ben Rosner will lead Chanukah medieval Jewish life. We’ll talk about the famous and Rd., Davis. For more information, contact gmrooks3@ songs. $5 includes lunch and entertainment. Funded the virtually unknown ordinary men and women who gmail.com. created vibrant Jewish communities in Sepharad and by The Jewish Federation of the Sacramento Region January 26, 2015. Change Your Life, Change Your Ashkenaz. Susan Aguilar is a doctoral candidate in and The Trust Fund for the Jewish Elderly. Federation World (Mussar workshop) with Dr. Alan Morinis, founder Jewish History and Culture at the Graduate Theological is partnering with the National Council of Jewish of the Mussar Institute. Nationally known Mussar Union in Berkeley. Lecture on January 22nd is free; Women (NCJW), Sacramento Section, for this special scholar Alan Morinis, presents two dynamic programs class on January 29th and February 5th is $15 for Chanukah programs. Be one of the first 50 people to for deepening one’s spiritual practice with Mussar, a members of B’nai Israel, $20 for non-members. 7:00- RSVP and NCJW will pay for your lunch! Noon-2:00pm. treasury of Jewish teachings and practices that have 8:30pm. Congregation B’nai Israel, 3600 Riverside 1935 Wright St., Sacramento. For more information about evolved over the past thousand years. 4:00-6:00pm Blvd., Sacramento. For more information, contact Melissa Leisure League or to RSVP, contact 916-486-0906 or Deepening Your Spiritual Practice; 6:00-7:00pm Dinner; Grand at 916-446-4861 or [email protected]. [email protected]. 7:30-9:00pm With Heart in Mind: Mussar Teachings December 31, 2014. Noon Year’s Eve. Join PJ Library January 23-25, 2015. Let’s Discover World Union for to Transform Your Life. Program co-sponsored by at Crocker Art Museum to learn about New Year’s Progressive Judaism with WUPJ Vice President Rabbi Congregations B’nai Israel, Bet Haverim, and Beth festivities from around the world through music, dance, Gary Bretton-Granatoor​. Opportunities to increase Shalom. For more information, including cost and to RSVP, and activities from local cultural groups. Stop by the awareness of and encourage involvement in the work contact [email protected] or 916-395-7675. PJ Library table as we share information about Rosh of WUPJ throughout the world reaching out to and Hashanah. 10:00am-2:00pm. 216 O St., Sacramento. supporting congregations; providing programming for For more information, contact [email protected]. youth, families, and individuals; partnering in Israel; developing lay, rabbinic and professional Jewish

38 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014 For more information and an application, visit www.jewishsac.org/schwabrosenhousescholarships

39 | the VOICE | DECEMBER 2014