The the the the the the The
the Volume 31, Number 7 March 2012 TEMPLE BETH ABRAHAM Adar / Nisan 5772 Volume 35, Number 4 • December 2015 • Kislev/Tevet 5776
Every Day Miracles TBA Schools Auction page 1
Six Word Memoirs page 5
The Courtyard Project Update page 11
Menorah
Selfies page 13
R R R R R R R R i i i i i i i i Pu M DIRECTORY
SERVICES SCHEDULE GENERAL INFORMATION: All phone numbers use (510) prefix unless otherwise noted. Services, Location, Time Monday & Thursday Mailing Address 336 Euclid Ave. Oakland, CA 94610 Morning Minyan, Chapel, 8:00 a.m. Hours M-Th: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Fr: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. On Holidays, start time is 9:00 a.m. Office Phone 832-0936 Friday Evening Office Fax 832-4930 (Kabbalat Shabbat), Chapel, 6:15 p.m. E-Mail [email protected] Shabbat Morning, Sanctuary, 9:30 a.m. Gan Avraham 763-7528 Bet Sefer 663-1683 Candle Lighting (Friday) STAFF December 4, 4:49 p.m. December 11, 4:50 p.m. Rabbi (x 213) Mark Bloom Richard Kaplan, December 18, 4:52 p.m. Cantor [email protected] December 25, 4:56 p.m. Gabbai Marshall Langfeld Executive Director (x 214) Rayna Arnold Torah Portions (Saturday) Office Manager (x 210) Virginia Tiger December 5, Vayeshev Bet Sefer Director Susan Simon 663-1683 December 12, Miketz Gan Avraham Director Jill Rosenthal & Marta Molina December 19, Vayigash Bookkeeper (x 215) Kevin Blattel December 26, Vayechi Facilities Manager (x 211) Joe Lewis Kindergym/ Dawn Margolin 547-7726 Toddler Program TEMPLE BETH ABRAHAM Volunteers (x 229) Herman & Agnes Pencovic OFFICERS OF THE BOARD is proud to support the Conservative Movement by affiliating with The United President Mark Fickes 652-8545 Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. Vice President Eric Friedman 984-2575 Vice President Alice Hale 336-3044 Vice President Laura Wildmann 601-9571 Vice President Etta Heber 530-8320 Advertising Policy: Anyone may sponsor an issue Secretary JB Leibovitch 653-7133 of The Omer and receive a dedication for their Treasurer Susan Shub 852-2500 business or loved one. Contact us for details. We COMMITTEES & ORGANIZATIONS: If you would like to con- do not accept outside or paid advertising. tact the committee chairs, please contact the synagogue The Omer is published on paper that is 30% office for phone numbers and e-mail addresses. post-consumer fibers. Adult Education Aaron Paul The Omer (USPS 020299) is published monthly Chesed Warren Gould except July and August by Congregation Beth Development Leon Bloomfield & Flo Raskin Abraham, 336 Euclid Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610. Dues Evaluation Susan Shub Periodicals Postage Paid at Oakland, CA. Endowment Fund Charles Bernstein Finance Susan Shub POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Gan Avraham Parents Toni Mason Omer, c/o Temple Beth Abraham, 336 Euclid Gan Avraham School Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610-3232. Gary Bernstein Committee © 2015. Temple Beth Abraham. House Stephen Shub The Omer is published by Temple Beth Abraham, Israel Affairs JB Leibovitch a non-profit, located at 336 Euclid Avenue, Membership Ulli Rotzscher Oakland, CA 94610; telephone (510) 832-0936. It Men’s Club Jereme Albin is published monthly except for the months of July Omer Lisa Fernandez/Rachel Dornhelm and August for a total of ten issues per annum. It Personnel Laura Wildmann is sent as a requester publication and there is no Public Relations Lisa Fernandez paid distribution. Ritual Eric Friedman Schools Alice Hale Social Action Marc Bruner To view The Omer in color, Torah Fund Anne Levine visit www.tbaoakland.org. Women of TBA Molli Rothman & Jessica Sterling Youth open i WHAT’S HAPPENING
Oakland Ruach Hadassah Presents: Celebrate 80’s Prom Night at TBA! Humor as a Survival Mechanism for the Jewish People A talk given by Rabbi Shelley Waldenberg, Rabbi Emeritus at Temple Isaiah Monday, December 14 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
The Baum Center 341 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland
FREE. RSVP: Judy at [email protected]
TBA BOOK CLUB Temple Beth Abraham’s Monday, December 7 at 7:00 p.m. Schools Auction The fictional book is January 30th Second Person Singular 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. by Sayed Kashua. At the home of Bonnie Burt Dig deep into that closet and slip on the taffeta prom dress or powder blue tuxedo, it is going to be a great night to cut loose! RSVP to Fifi Goodfellow, [email protected], by Tuesday, Nov. 24. To volunteer or for more information contact Angela Engel at [email protected]
La’atid Celebrates Hanukkah Sunday, December 6 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
La’atid is a youth group for kids in grades 4-7. RSVP or questions to: Susan at [email protected]
See PAGES 6 & 7 for Events for See PAGE 9 for Women of TBA & Men’s Club Adult Education Events
1 FROM THE RABBI That Was a Miracle Too By Rabbi Bloom When I hear the word miracle I think in two different directions (and languages). I hear mira- cle, and neis gadol haya sham, a great miracle happened there (the phrase represented by the dreidel) runs through my head. So do several sets of song lyrics, all of the somewhat cheesy variety: Barry Manilow’s “It’s a miracle, miracle, a true blue spectacle,” Jefferson Starship’s “If only you believed like I believe baby in miracles,” and, most prominently Fiddler on the Roof’s “wonder of wonder, miracle of miracles.” In the Fiddler song, several miracles are listed: When Moses softened Pharaoh’s heart, When God made the waters of the Red Sea Part, When David slew Goliath, yes, When God gave us manna in the wilderness.” And, of course, the most miraculous one of all to Mottel the Tailor is that God gave him the wife of his dreams, Tzeitel. But where are the miracles of today, I am often asked. We remember God’s miracles of parting the red sea and the Chanukah oil, but why don’t we get to witness such miracles? Maybe our standard of miracle is too high. Maybe we are not quite appreciating the many miracles that have occurred in our lives. With that in mind, here is a short modern list of miracles to appreciate. When the Jewish people returned to the land of Israel, that was a miracle. When people like Helen Fixler, Misia Nudler, Adele Mendelsohn-Keinon, and Hennie Hecht survived the Shoa and are still with us to tell their tales, that is a miracle too. When some of us found our bashert, our soul mates, that was a miracle. When healthy children have been born to us and are growing up before our very eyes, that is a miracle too. When someone helped us when we were lost, either physically or spiritually, that was a miracle. When we are able to make enough money to pay our rent or mortgage and put food on our tables, that is a miracle too. When we simply wake up every morning renewed in body and soul, that is a miracle. And so we say on Chanukah and should really think about much more often; “Baruch Ata Hashem she’asa nisim lavoteinu bayamim hahem bazman hazeh. Blessed are You, O God, that did miracles for our ancestors in those days and in our times as well.” And let us say: Amen.
Mazel Tov to the entire Bloom family on the bar mitzvah of Jonah Bloom.
2 FROM THE PRESIDENT Ilya Okh – The Miracle of Surviving the Start of World War II By Mark Fickes Last month, I was not able to write my monthly column for the Omer. Because I liked the theme of learning from others, I decided to dedicate this month’s column to what I recently learned from long-time TBA Member, Ilya Okh, about how he survived the early years of World War II. Ilya was born on May 1, 1928, in a small Jewish village located between Kiev and Odessa in the Ukraine. He lived in his village until he was 12 years old, when everything changed in his life. At age 12, Ilya became very ill and his sister took him to a children’s hospital about 120 miles from where he was raised. Ilya remained in this hospital for about three months. Around the time he was set to be discharged, World War Two had started. Germany had invaded Poland which borders the Ukraine. As a result, Russia mobilized its military forces to defend itself from the Germans. The hospital where Ilya stayed was inundated with injured soldiers. Doctors and nurses were busy treating soldiers and eventually, everyone was forced to evacuate. Fortunately for Ilya and the 19 children who were with him, a very brave nurse insisted that the children travel with the soldiers and medical personnel. As people were loaded into horse-drawn wagons, the nurse made sure there was enough room to transport the children as well. As they headed toward Russia, the children all had to grow up very fast. They were taught to get bandages and medicine and the nurses showed them how to treat injured soldiers. The military leaders explained that they could not be children any more. Along the way, Ilya and the others had to find food, help boil water and feed soldiers. He did this for several weeks while on the road. Eventually, Ilya and the others arrived in the former Ukrainian capital of Kharkiv. The soldiers were sent to hospitals and the 19 children were sent to a foster home where they helped care for blind children. Ilya was alone. He did not know what had happened to his family and all along his journey, he saw destruction. By this point, he was only 13 years old. As the Germans invaded Ukraine, Ilya was evacuated again, this time moving to a new foster home. He was only there for a short time when he had to move yet again. They trav- eled on foot for more than 145 miles to flee the Germans. Ilya and the others had to brave the cold and rain. Food was scarce and there were virtually no coats or blankets. Yet, the 19 children still retained together, walking day and night, and sleeping in deserted schools, churches and other buildings along the way. Eventually, Ilya and a friend separated from the group and made their way by train to Kazakhstan, having befriended a train engineer. Eventually, Ilya found himself in jail as a young child where he remained for several months. He was eventually released and sent to a new foster home. There, he went to school and started studying again. Life was still very difficult. One day, when he returned to the foster home, Ilya was told he had to see the head of his foster home. He was terrified that he would be beaten or thrown out into the streets. However, something miraculous happened. The head of the home asked Ilya the name of his sister. At first, Ilya balked saying his family were all dead. However, when pressed, Ilya revealed his sister’s name. He learned his sister Sonya was a teacher and was looking for him. She was in Uzbekistan and had read in a newspaper about hundreds of children who were evacuated when the Germans invaded. Eventually, Ilya and his sister were reunited. From there, he was also reunited with his father and the rest of his family. By then, he was 16. The following years were no less bru- tal but Ilya was with his family again. His brother was drafted but eventually returned home. I feel so privileged to have learned a little about Ilya and his journey. If you would like to know more, Ilya wrote a book titled, A Boy from A Ukrainian Village which can be found at www.lulu.com. 3 EDITORS COLUMN ABOUT THE COVER ARTIST The Power Of Miracles Means TBA Has a New Omer Editor By Lisa Fernandez The power of miracles has brought you a new Omer editor. Not that I’m so special or was divinely tapped to bring you the shul’s goings-on. Nope. It’s that Omer editor Rachel Dornhelm and husband Andy Campbell have given birth to their third child – a daughter! And because of their miraculous mazel, I am filling in. So knowing this I ask you all to consider creating some miracles of your own: Namely, Omer articles. I am calling on all Omer novices to think of sending something in for your fellow congregants to read and kvell over in the next coming months. Please contribute in any way you deem fit: Personal writings, thematic articles, photos, six-word memoirs. Veterans, you are invited to keep contributing. We’d love to hear from you. Happy Chanukah. Big Mazel Tov! Congratulations to Rachel Dornhelm and Andy Campbell on the birth of their new baby daughter, pictured, with their other two daughters Amalia and Aurora.
About the Cover Artist, Effie Tanis By daughter Joni Tanis As a young girl with three siblings, a younger brother and two older sisters, I have fond memories of afternoon activities at home with them. One of my favorites was sitting at a table with art supplies, clay, and drawing materials. As we worked and created and played, we listened to children’s fables, from story records played on the record player nearby. The story of Peter and the Wolf, narrated by Leonard Bernstein was one of my favorites. My mother’s love for education, music, art, and especially her children was evident. Although a busy mother, she sometimes sat with us at the table to help us learn to draw. My mother, Effie, drew this stylized drawing of a young girl lighting the menorah, probably inspired by her children’s excited anticipation of the arrival of Chanukah. I was about eight or nine years old, and apparently I must have been the one to color in her drawing, based on the color choice and skill level of the work. I recently dis- covered this drawing among my childhood artwork. Although my mother is no longer living, this image brought back a sparkle of a sweet memory that we had together. I think my mother saved this drawing because she too savored that moment. 4 SIX WORD MEMOIRS 6 Word Memoirs: Miracles Gave dog latkes, regretted it later. Compiled by Jessica Teisch (A true story. In Charlotte, we hosted a latkes party for Having two children changed my life. our friends. One couple brought their golden retriever, -Shira Levine, 45 Baxter, who we love; I am considered his uncle. I snuck Baxter a bunch of latkes during the evening, which he Latke house: walk in and sniff. enjoyed immensely. Both of Baxters “parents” work dur- Jews already returning gifts by Christmas. ing the day, so Baxter stays inside their impeccibly fur- One bad candle: mantle blue forever. nished house. It was never a problem. Until the day after Irving Berlin should’ve written Chanukah songs. the latkes. Whoops.) -Marcia Benjamin -Andy Wasserman Spin the dreidel, open the gifts. Stuck in kitchen, smelling of oil. Kiss the kids, hug your friends. Yes, a great miracle happened there. -Elinor DeKoven In Israel, the miracle happened here. No more whining, it’s a miracle! Oil lasted eight; traditions: over millennia. Light one candle, spread the light. -David Levin Minor holiday? It’s major in America! Watching grandchildren light candles on FaceTime! Hanukah lights bring healing and joy. Remembering thrill of personally lighting candles! -Karen Bloom, 45 -Vicki and Ron Weller, “Golden Years” In coming issues please send us your six word memoirs Keep the Hanukah lights shining bright. to Jessica Teisch at [email protected] with the word Spin my dreidel and win gelt. “six word memoir” in the subject line. Please include Spread the gelt, spin the dreidel. your name and your age, because part of the beauty is Clay dreidel is ready to play. seeing how we feel about Judaism at different ages. Let my candle light be bright. The Six-Word Memoirs on Jewish Life is a partnership -Bob Klein, 83 between Reboot (www.rebooters.net) and Larry Smith. Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, violet. In November 2006, writer and editor Larry Smith issued a challenge to fans of his online publication, SMITH Grating potatoes onions weeping Grandma generations. Magazine. Inspired by Ernest Hemingway’s legendary -Ann Rapson, 60 shortest of short stories (“For sale: Baby shoes, never Bit of oil, lots of gifts! worn”), Smith asked readers to describe their lives in six ® Everyone loved their gifts—a miracle! words. Since then, the Six-Word Memoir made its debut -Lori-Jill Seltzer, 50-something is the new 30-something in 2006, nearly one million short life stories have been shared on the storytelling community SMITH Magazine website.
THE OMER We cheerfully accept member submissions. Deadline for articles and letters is the seventh of the month preceding publication. Editor in Chief Rachel Dornhelm Jessica Dell’Era, Nadine Joseph, Richard Kauffman, Lori Copy Editors Managing Editor Lisa Fernandez Rosenthal, Jan Silverman, Debbie Spangler Layout & Design Jessica Sterling June Brott, Jessica Dell’Era, Charles Feltman, Elizabeth Proofreaders James, Jeanne Korn, Anne Levine, Susan Simon, Debbie Calendars Jon Golding Spangler Cover Effie Tannis Distribution Hennie Hecht B’nai Mitzvah Editor Susan Simon Mailing Address 336 Euclid Ave. Oakland, CA 94610 Help From People like you! E-Mail [email protected] 5 WOMEN OF TBA, OUR SISTERHOOD
Girls Night Out is Sponsored by Getting Ready for the Holidays! WTBA & Oakland Ruach Hadassah Please join us for some fun “me time,” “spa time,” and “girlfriend fun time” all rolled into one. Rosh We’ll be meeting up at the Lavender Nail Spa where we’ll own the place and have manis, pedis, Chodesh fun, libations and treats together. Drop by on your own schedule (first come, first beautified). Monday, Girls Night Out is a casual, monthly event to gather TBA women together for relaxed and Dec. 14 unstructured social time. On behalf of The Women of TBA (WTBA) and Place: Lavender Nail Spa Oakland Ruach Hadassah, we would like to invite all 5856 College Avenue, Oakland East Bay Women to join our Rosh Chodesh group. The Date: Thursday, December 3 group meets monthly on the Monday close to Rosh Time: 6:30-9:00 p.m. Chodesh, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at rotating members’ homes. The meetings are facilitated by members of the Cost: the price of your services + tip group. RSVPs are recommended (limited space). Our text is The Harlot by the Side of the Road, by To RSVP or for questions: Jo Ilfeld, [email protected] Jonathan Kirsch. The meeting will open with a or Lara Gilman, [email protected]. short discussion about the significance of the new month. Women of TBA - Your Sisterhood Questions? Amy Tessler at [email protected] or (510) 482-1218 to get on the distribution list for the Women of TBA – a dynamic group of Temple Beth Abraham women supporting Jewish education, our upcoming meeting locations. synagogue community, and each other through social and educational events. More info: [email protected] MONTHLY PROGRAMS: • Girls Night Out – First Thursday of the month, 7:30-9 p.m. (except when noted) • Rosh Chodesh – Monday closest to Rosh Chodesh, 9:30-11:30 a.m., contact Amy to be on the email list at [email protected] WTBA SUPPORTS: • Ongoing Adult Education • Parent-led Shabbat Mishpacha – Saturday service for pre-schoolers and their families • T’fillat Yeladim – Saturday service for kindergarten, first and second grad- ers and their families • TBA People of the Book Save the Date Club • Various Synagogue, Bet Sefer and Gan Avraham celebrations throughout the year • TU B’SHVAT SEDER Monthly Bingo at Reutlingers • TBA Baby Sitter’s Registry • An Hour to Shower Sitters • Sunday, January 24 Torah Fund in support of the Jewish Theological 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. Seminary and related institutions Details to follow. 6 MEN’S CLUB
Belief in Miracles Shows Optimism in Come join the TBA Men's Club to Human Spirt By Larry Reback schmoozed with ... People define miracles differently. For some, it rep- resents the work of divine intervention. Our tradition Jews in Bad Shoes! contains many examples of this from Sarah giving birth to Isaac in old age to the splitting of the Red Sea to one Thursday, December 3, we'll meet at day’s supply of oil somehow lasting eight. For others, a miracle need not have a divine influence. Instead, it can Alameda's Southshore Lanes for be a beneficial but statistically unlikely event. Escaping a life-threatening event or any number of Phil Hankin’s winning hands at our Men’s Club Poker tournaments are Bowling, Beer, & examples of this. No matter how one defines a miracle, the one thing all Bragging rights. miracles have in common is that they are never bad. Nobody thinks a plane crash or being diagnosed with a Discount pricing TBD (approx. $20 - we do this "at serious illness is a miracle, even if it is unlikely to hap- cost") for two games, including shoe rental. pen. In this way, a miracle really is just the fulfillment of The Men's Club buys the pizza and beer. hope. It shows that despite long odds or hopeless circum- stances there is a chance that things will work out well. Play starts at 7:30 p.m. Belief in miracles is an expression of optimism that All adult members (or prospective members) exemplifies the human spirt. of the TBA community are welcome. Thus, whether one believes that miracles are supernatural RSVP to Howard Zangwill at [email protected]. in origin or just another word for luck, the concept of AMF Bowling Center - Southshore Lanes miracles is ingrained in us. And that’s a good thing. 300 Park Street, Alameda, CA 94501
Dance down the aisle with us on December 24! Women of TBA and TBA Men’s Club present 5th Annual Erev Xmas – Sing-Along Mamma Mia! Thursday, December 24 Join us for a family evening as we enjoy a Greek-inspired dinner and dessert, followed by a sing-along viewing of this fun film starring Meryl Streep and the songs of ABBA.
TIME: 6:00 p.m. Dinner, 6:30 p.m. Movie PLACE: Temple Beth Abraham Social Hall, 327 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland COST: FREE! RSVP REQUIRED FOR DINNER by December 18th, please. Call Jeanne Korn at (510) 339-3795, or email [email protected], to reserve your spot(s). Members, friends, and guests welcome!
7 YOUTH SCHOLARSHIPS AND EVENTS
Hertz Fund Israel Scholarship - Forms due February 3 Students who are planning on visiting Israel this year may apply for a grant from the Hertz Fund. This is a fund that was established by the Hertz family in order to encourage our young people to travel to Israel and strengthen their intellectual and emotional connection to a place that is so important to the Jewish people. The mon- etary grant is made without consideration of financial need and the money can be used for anything connected with a trip to Israel by a young person who has gradu- ated from our Bet Sefer Religious School after having attended at least four years here and/or has celebrated a Bar or Bat Mitzvah ceremony here. Students may only be recipients of a grant one time and are eligible through age 22. The amount of each grant will depend upon how much interest the fund has generated in the past year and how many students apply for the grant. Students may apply now for any trip to be commenced any time in 2016. In return stu- dents are REQUIRED to write an article for the Omer within one month of returning home from Israel. If your child is planning on going to Israel this year and would like to apply for a share of the Hertz Fund, contact me at [email protected] for a form, which is due by February 3.
JCC Maccabi Games and ArtsFest - Event August 7-12, 2016 Join Team East Bay in the JCC Maccabi Games and ArtsFest on August 7 to 12 in in Stamford, CT for a week of sports, art, Jewish identity and community. It’s billed as the largest Jewish teen event in the world. Jewish teen athletes and artists, ages 13-16, come together from across North America, Israel, and all over the world for a week of competition, social events, and social action. For more information, please contact Greg Cohen at 510-848-0237 x151 or [email protected].
WARM COAT DRIVE We will begin our annual col- lection of new or lightly used warm coats, blankets, mittens and scarves on December 1. Bins will be set up in the foyer for your donations. These items will be distributed to the homeless. Let’s fill the bins and warm up those who are in need.
8 ADULT ED Sunday, December 6 Meet author Jesse Kellerman and hear about his books, “The Golem of Hollywood” and “The Golem of Paris” Written with his father, Jonathan Kellerman, these are murder mysteries with a Jewish bent. Stephen King called his first book “An extraordinary work of detection, suspense and supernatural mystery... It sort of took my breath away.” Join us at 10:00 a.m. in the Chapel as we meet Jesse and hear about his books.
This Month: a board member of NECHAMA: Jewish Response to January 10 - Join us to meet author Eric Golub and Disaster, a member of TBA, and visits multiple individu- hear about his new book, Jewish Lunacy: 6,000 Years als who are coping with medical challenges every week. of Tradition, Pride and Stories As Told By Someone Bette will be teaching at 10:00 a.m. in the Chapel. Who Missed the First 5,960 Years. Eric explores many different topics and along the way makes you think and Next Month and Beyond: laugh, all while reliving the Jewish experience. Rabbi Starting February 7th and continuing for several David Wolpe said of the book, “Eric’s writing is irrever- weeks, our own Rabbi Art Gould will be teaching a class ent, witty and insightful. He offers a slanted and original on Talmud Brakhot. The Talmud contains the oral law approach to familiar topics.” and the multiple layers of discussions about each of the Join us us at 10:00 a.m. in the Chapel as we meet Eric topics. The Talmud is broken up into six sedarim or and hear about his book. orders and each of those is further broken down. The first of these orders is brakhot and covers, you guessed it, blessings. It starts with the shema and moves onto the January 31 - You all get Warren Gould’s emails asking amidah, blessings for food and birkhat hamazon, kiddush, for help when someone is sick – we bring food, we help havdalah and more. take people to medical appointments. But there is much 10:00 a.m. in the Chapel for this exciting opportunity. more to the topic of Bikur Cholim than you might know. More information to come. Join our very own Bette Birnbaum for a lesson about Be A Blessing: The Why-To’s And How-To’s of Visiting the Sick. March 20 - A return engagement by Nily Shiryon. We What does Jewish tradition teach about why and how are still working out the details but it will be great to to call on people who are ill, and what are some best have Nily return after missing last year. practices to bring to the bedside? In this interactive, 10:00 a.m. in the Chapel. participatory workshop, unpack Jewish texts about Bikur Cholim, the commandment to visit the sick, and polish your skills for doing so. April 17 - Hold the date as Nitzhia Shaked will be returning for a one day class on Pesach from Biblical Bette Birnbaum is a hospice chaplain. She holds a Times to the Haggadah. Master’s degree from the Jewish Theological Seminary and was a lead faculty member of three Florence Melton 10:00 a.m. in the Chapel. Schools of Adult Learning for nearly a decade. She is
9 CHAVURAH VOLUNTEER BOARD
JOIN A NEW TBA CHAVURAH! Do you want to be a part of a smaller, more intimate group within Temple Beth Abraham? Forming or joining a chavurah could be what you’re looking for! What is a chavurah? From the Hebrew word for friend, a chavurah is a group of people (singles, couples, families, or a mix of these) who meet regularly (usually monthly in each others homes) to experience Jewish life together. Joining a Chavurah is one way to meet other TBA members in a smaller, more personal setting. What does a chavurah do? Each chavurah is created to reflect the interests of its members. There could be groups with any of the following interests: socializing, Jewish study, Shabbat gatherings, social action, holiday celebrations, camping, hiking, music, sports, etc. The group could meet with or without children. Each chavurah is completely autonomous and can decide as a group when, where, and how often to meet. It is important for all members to be committed to working together toward building the community. How large is a chavurah? A chavurah is generally made up of between 5 and 10 families or individuals. It could include members who already know each other, or a mix of some old and new friends or acquaintances. How do I join a chavurah? The process of joining a chavurah is very simple. Just fill out the questionnaire by October 15. Sometimes it takes awhile to put together the right group, but it’s worthwhile to wait for a group that’s a good fit. Hard copies are also available in the office at TBA. https://ccjds.wufoo.com/forms/temple-beth-abraham-chavurah-questionnaire/ How do I find out more? If you have questions, contact Amy Wittenberg, our chavurah coordinator, at: [email protected]
Volunteer Opportunities
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: WELCOME A NEW MEMBER: Do you have There is always an opportunity to volun- time to help deliver TBA’s new member teer at Temple Beth Abraham. Please baskets? If so, please contact Virginia at consider helping a cause or event you virginia@ tbaoakland.org feel a connection to.
GIVE A NEW PARENT AN HOUR TO SHOWER This is a perfect mitzvah for those with daytime flexibility. Volunteers are need- ed to provide short daytime sits free FEED THE HUNGRY: of charge to our new moms and dads TBA volunteers at CityTeam to feed allowing them to shower, get a haircut, or the hungry on the fourth Sunday of just take a walk. each month from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Interested sitters should contact us at If you wish to volunteer contact womenoftba@ tbaoakland.org. Caren Shapiro at [email protected]
10 THE COURTYARD PROJECT Something Big – and Miraculous – is Happening Here… By Leon Bloomfield As the days get shorter and shorter, we are getting closer and closer to the finish line for the Courtyard Project. The walls of the new atrium are complete, the new fence between the Gan playground and the ramp is up, the sound walls surrounding the courtyard are taking shape, the foundation of the staircase from the sanctuary is in place, and the new kitchen should be complete right around Chanukah.
Although we have admittedly run into a few bumps support. To those of you who have already given, we say along the road over the course of the past few months, “thank you” again. To those of you who are inclined to we are hopeful that our path forward at this point is clear. reach a little deeper and give even more, we say “thank Our contractors and architects are working hard to get us you, thank you.” And, to those of you who have not had through this next stage as quickly as possible even with a chance to give yet, we say “join us” and become a part El Niño bearing down on us this winter. of this incredible transformation of the TBA Campus. Through it all, the congregation has continued to show Remember, no gift is too large or too small! We have its support and enthusiasm. We have now raised almost received donations from $10 all the way to $250,000 and $3.4 million from over 300 congregational and com- each one has been critical. For those who are interested munity donors including grandparents of current mem- in having their family names become a permanent part of bers, children of former members, Bet Sefer classes, the the Courtyard, bricks are still available for donors pledg- TBA Sisterhood, the Men’s Club, families, friends and ing $1,800 or more. Donations of any size can be made individuals. We have met the challenge of all of the as one-time gifts, they can be spread out over years, they matching grants including those from the Schwab fam- can be in cash or in stock – whatever works best for you. ily, the Trustees, the Men’s Club and of course the initial What is most important is to participate in the project in grant from the Applebaum, Ilfeld and Epstein families. any way you can...and to come together to celebrate our Indeed, we are on the verge of being able to completely grand opening sometime in early 2016. self-fund this project which is an amazing accomplish- ment in and of itself. In the meantime, thanks to the entire congregation for your patience with this process and a special thank you But, we are not quite there… to the families of the recent b’nai mitzvahs and to all the Now, as we get ready to close the campaign for this proj- staff of the Gan, Bet Sefer and Kindergym. We know ect, we are reaching out to you this last time to seek your there have been some inconveniences along the way and you have all been incred- ibly gracious and under- standing. As always, if you have any question or want to make a gift, please contact me ([email protected]) or Rayna ([email protected]) anytime.
11 CHESED COMMITTEE SELICHOT PROGRAM TBA Cares For Its Members, Join the not available for the present case just need not reply. No Chesed Committee questions asked. Then we schedule whatever help we can By Warren Gould provide. This article, with Deeds of loving kindness are their own reward. Preparing minor changes, a meal, usually the Shabbat evening meal, and driving has appeared sev- it over to a family coping with illness, sometimes just eral times in The dropping it off without even seeing them when they are Omer over the past too ill, may not seem like much. But many of us think few years. It is of the service we provide as a vehicle to express care repeated now since and concern. Chesed means “loving kindness.” I have we have several lost count of how many times volunteers have said they new members and feel they get more out of this than the recipient. Perhaps as a reminder to a mitzvah is best done for its own sake, without thought you who saw it last of reward. On the other hand, receiving a meal, a ride or year. It is intended to remind you to bring to our attention having someone run an errand, or whatever service we situations we may be able to respond to and, possibly, for are able to provide means a lot to the recipient. Illness you to join The Chesed Committee. can be lonely. Receiving care and concern, perhaps in the form of a Erev Shabbat meal, can go a long way toward TBA is a congregation that cares for its members. Before easing that loneliness. And as of now, we can offer the there was a Chesed Committee, Pinky Pencovic and comfort of Pet Therapy, often quite comforting, for those .The Sunshine Boys,” provided support who want it“ ,ל״ז Sid Shaffer and Bikkur Cholim to members struck by illness. Then one day, long ago, in response to a sermon by Rabbi Finding out about needs remains our first problem. As it Diamond, a few of us got together to form a more or is, we learn about needs on an unsystematic and unreli- less formal Chesed Committee. My notes for these early able manner, no doubt missing many. But we want to meetings were lost when my computer was stolen but I know. Chesed volunteers become Chesed volunteers do recall our group included Rabbi Diamond, Outi Gould, because they want the opportunity to express care and Andy Wasserman, Alan Silver, and probably a few others. concern through these deeds of loving kindness. Part of I now back up my files more carefully. the reason for this article it to bring ourselves to wider attention and perhaps, in that way, make ourselves more Over the years we have modernized. Our current Chesed available. Please let me know it you, or someone you Committee is now an email contact list of over 60 TBA know, might benefit from our services or if you are inter- members. When we become aware of a need, usually ill- ested in joining the committee. ness, we speak to the family to ascertain that they agree and then send a message to this entire list requesting the To find out more, join the committee or report that you help agreed to, most often meals. Chesed volunteers who or someone has a need, cotact Warren Gould at warren. are available reply and a sub list is created. Volunteers [email protected].
Please Join Us for Morning Minyan on Mondays & Thursdays Join the regulars at our Minyan service, each Monday and Thursday usually starting at 8:00 a.m. The service lasts about an hour, and is really a great way to start the day. As an added bonus, breakfast is served immediately afterwards. To use the old expression – try it, you’ll like it. If not as a regular, just stop in once or twice and see what it’s all about.
12 MENORAH SELFIES
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MENORAHSELFIES
Clockwise from top left. Menorahselfie 1: 2 Sarilee Janger at the Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv.
Menorahselfie 2: Alicia and Sy Schwartz.
Menorahselfie 3: David Mason (center), Rowan Mason (being held) currently a Gan Alef, Stein Mason (at right) currently a Gan Gimmel.
Menorahselfie 4: Rozzie Heeger
Menorahselfie 5: Lisa Fernandez and Eric Leve.
Menorahselfie 6: Martin B. Cohen 3 and Alden F. Cohen 4 enjoying a Chanukah menorah sushi roll. 13 COOKING CORNER And on Sunday, potatoes again “On Sunday potatoes, on Monday potatoes, / on Tuesday By Faith Kramer and Wednesday potatoes, / on Thursday and Friday pota- toes. / But on Shabbes, for a change, potato kugel. / On When I decided I would make the December column Sunday, potatoes again.” about potatoes and their role in Jewish cooking, I didn’t quite realize how ubiquitous the tuber is, especially in Another version of this song I’ve heard substitutes pota- Ashkenazi and Eastern European dishes. tonik (sometimes called bulbenik or kartofelnik) for the kugel. Potatonik is a yeasted dish that is a cross between My first thought, since this is December, was potato a bread and a kugel made with raw potatoes. At one time latkes, but the December 2014, Omer had recipes for that it was very commonplace but it dropped out of favor with (http://tbaoakland.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Omer- American Jews with assimilation and the availability of Dec-2014-web.pdf). non-potato based cuisine. Potato kugel? Check the October 2014 Omer (http:// Potatoes also played a role in other Jewish traditions tbaoakland.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Omer-Oct- including Sephardic and Indian recipes. Look for a future 2014-web.pdf). column featuring potatoes in these cuisines. In the mean- How about potato knishes? The Omer has some of those, time, if you have a potatonik recipe to share, I’d love to too (http://tbaoakland.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/ try it. Omer-Mar-2015-web.pdf). Here are two potato recipes to try. One, a reprint from an Considering that the potato, with it’s roots high in the earlier column, uses pre-shredded potatoes to speed latke Andes, didn’t reach Europe until the late 16th century preparation. The other is a Potato-Greens Soup based on and then was suspected of being indigestible, poisonous, the Portuguese caldo verde. It’s a wonderful comfort soup and only good for animal feed, it has certainly become a when the days turn colder. defining ingredient in Jewish cuisine. I have some tips for selecting potatoes, especially if buy- Despite urging from a king, a doctor and others, potatoes ing them bagged. Take a good look and feel (I always were slow to catch on in Europe. In many areas, it only tear open the bag a little bit to take a peek). The potatoes became a major food stuff because of crop failure or should be firm, blemish free and should not be showing famine. It wasn’t until the late 18th century, early 19th any “eyes” or sprouts. Avoid any with a greenish tinge. century that the potato became a staple in the diet of cen- Store in a dark, cool corner (not in a refrigerator or coun- tral and eastern Europe, especially for the Jews, crowding ter top). out plantings of legumes and buckwheat. The Jews of that period are said to have eaten more potatoes proportion- ally than their non-Jewish neighbors. Besides eating them baked or boiled, Jews added them to cholents, stews, dumplings, knishes, latkes, pirogi, kugels, salads, soups, noodles and more. Yiyo, the Encyclopedia of Jews in Eastern Europe, describes a typi- cal meal for a Jewish worker as coarse rye bread, pota- toes, herring and soup. Experts attribute the growth of Ashkenazi Jewish popula- tion from 1700 to 1900 to the potato, which many folks ate three times a day. There was even a Yiddish ditty about the prevalence of the potato. Here is the first stanza, as quoted in the Forward (http://forward.com/culture/135803/a-truffle- and-10-words-for-potato/#ixzz3r2LvPgjt) “Zuntik bulbes, montik bulbes, / Dinstik un mitvokh bulbes, / Donershtik un fraytik bulbes, / Ober shabbes in a noveneh a bulbe kugele. / Zuntik vayter bulbes.” Bulbes is a common Yiddish term for potatoes (another widely used one is kertofl). The translation, again from the Forward: 14 COOKING CORNER POTATO-GREENS SOUP SHORTCUT LATKES Serves 6-8 Makes 10-12 potato pancakes For an even heartier meal, top the soup Use the shredded potatoes right out of the with about six ounces of fried, thinly fridge for best results. (The colder the sliced turkey or vegan pepperoni. mixture, the less likely the pancake will 1 pound mixed sturdy greens. (I like to fall apart in the fry pan.) For a milder use half collard, half kale.) latke, use the lesser amount of onion and 1 large onion, chopped fine leave out the garlic. 1 large garlic clove, minced Note: If you can only find the frozen pre- 4 Tbs. of a flavorful olive oil (divid- shredded, please thaw, drain and chill ed) before using. 6 large potatoes, peeled and sliced thin 1-20 oz. package of refrigerated pre- (I like to use Yukon Gold potatoes, shredded potatoes (may be labeled but baking potatoes will work as well) “hash browns”) 1 quart water 2 eggs 1 quart vegetable or chicken stock 1/8 tsp. ground black pepper 2 tsp. of salt, divided (more or less to ½ tsp. salt taste) 1/3 to ½ cup of finely chopped onion 1/4 tsp. freshly ground pepper (more or 1 clove garlic, minced less to taste) 1 Tbs. matzah cake meal or flour 1/4 tsp. dried red pepper flakes, Canola or corn oil optional Beat the eggs in a large bowl with the Wash greens, trim off thick stems and pepper and salt. Add potatoes, onions and veins and sliced into very thin threads. garlic. Mix well. Add cake meal or flour. Set aside. Mix well. Heat ¼” oil in a large fry pan In a heavy soup pot, heat three table- over medium high heat. Form patties about spoons of the oil and then add onion and 3” in diameter and ¼ to ½” thick. When a garlic. Fry, stirring occasionally, for a bit of batter put into the pan sizzles, few minutes over medium heat until they slide 3-4 patties into hot oil, being begin to color but not brown. Add the careful not to crowd pan. Press down on potato slices and sauté, stirring for two pancakes with spatula occasionally as they to three minutes until they too begin to cook. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side color. Add the water and stock, cover and until brown and crispy. Remove to paper- simmer until potatoes are very soft, about towel covered plate. Add more oil if nec- 20 to 25 minutes. essary and allow to come back to “sizzle” before frying next batch. Repeat as need- When the potatoes are soft, take the pot ed. Keep warm in a low (200 degree) oven off the burner and use a potato masher to if desired. Serve with applesauce and/or mash the potato slices right in the pan. sour cream or plain yogurt. When the potatoes are as smooth as you can make them, add half of the salt, all the black pepper and the optional red pepper, Faith Kramer writes a food column for the j weekly and put the pot back on medium heat, cover and bring back to a simmer. Simmer for about blogs her food at www.clickblogappetit.com Contact her five minutes. Add in the sliced greens at [email protected] and cook uncovered until the greens are tender (about five minutes). Add in the last tablespoon of olive oil and taste to adjust for salt and pepper. Depending on how salty your chicken stock is you may or may not need to use the last teaspoon (or even more) of salt. Serve with a nice crusty bread and perhaps a little hot sauce on the side for those who like their food a bit spicier.
15 GAN AVRAHAM Out Of The Mouths of Babes: What the “Something that happens and that you don’t think will Gan Remembers About Chanukah happen.” By Jill Rosenthal and Marta Molina “It’s something when you do something pretty awesome.” Each year, our Gan teachers tell the story of Chanukah “Something that happened that was really great, like that to the children in developmentally appropriate ways. something turned into something new.” We thought it would be enlightening to ask some of the “Like when I get something that you really cannot buy.” children in our Kitah Gimmel classroom (ages 4-5) what they remember about Chanukah. Here are some of their “When a rainbow comes out.” responses: So, although there was no connection made between “We light the menorah on every day.” these miracles and those that are part of the Chanukah story, their descriptions tell us that they certainly have a “Lighting candles.” grasp of the concept; the wonder and awe of recognizing “Celebrating.” a miracle. Teachers will often point out miracles in our “Reading a book with the song ‘Oh Chanukah’ in it.” everyday life here at Gan Avraham, such as our first rain- fall, seeds we have sewn growing into hearty lettuce for “Chocolate coins, presents, making art stuff and treats.” us to eat, a rainbow appearing while playing in the yard, “You spin the dreidel.” etc. This practice helps the children continue to make the “You get a special money treat.” connection to the miracles that have happened in our his- tory as a Jewish people. So, you may wonder, why is there no memory of the mir- acles included in the story; the miracle of the oil and of Each year, our staff look forward to paying attention to a small band of Maccabees’ victory over King Antiochus what the children want to explore around the holiday of and his army? So, without leading the children too much, Chanukah. Will that mean they want to focus on reenact- we decided to pose another question: “What is a mira- ing the story, mastering dreidel spinning, cooking foods cle?” And here are the responses: with oil or creating patterns with the various menorah candles?? Providing children with hands-on experi- “Something that you think didn’t happen but it really ences which are based on their interests helps to develop did.” a deeper understanding and appreciation for the holiday. “Something that’s magic, like when stars go away in the We are grateful to have these unique opportunities to help morning and come out at night or when the sun goes the children find their own ways to relate to these Jewish down at night and the moon comes up.” stories and traditions.
KINDERGYM TODDLER CLASS Mark your Calendar – NOTE Temporary Location – CELEBRATE Wed and Thurs 10 am & 11:15 am Fri 9:30 am & 10:45 am SHABBAT AT: Where: Resurrection Lutheran, 397 Euclid Ave, SHABBAT Oakland, Enter Euclid Ave for the Social Hall MISHPACHA If you have a young crawling baby or a toddler who is jumping off everything, the Kindergym and Toddler classes SERVICE with Dawn Margolin are for you. Come join us on tons of wonderful play equipment, in a large, well-lit room with December 5 other families ready to play together and make new friends. 10:15 a.m. THE KINDERGYM and TODDLER classes at Temple Beth Abraham are celebrating Dawn’s 32nd year of teaching and In the Gan are open to ALL families! classroom closest Please call Dawn at 510-547-7726 with any questions. to the Chapel. http://tbaoakland.org/education/kindergym/
16 BET SEFER Working With Children Helps You Believe smiles an infectious and contagious smile that would light in Miracles up the night sky. I see it when a call goes out to help a By Susan Simon family with a newborn or asks for help with meals for a sick congregant. I see it at shiva houses when the mourn- There is an old folktale about a Jewish woman who lived er is reciting the Kaddish and a warm and strong chorus in a village and didn’t have any money to buy potatoes to of Amen fills the room. make latkes for Chanukah. She had just one potato but decided to just trust in God and pray for a miracle. An Wait – you’re talking about a different kind of miracle? old beggar knocked at her door and the woman invited You mean like the one in the Chanukah story? Something him in to share the few latkes she was able to make from unexplainable and supernatural? The kind we think the one potato. The next day she found that she had two doesn’t happen anymore? potatoes. She shared her unexplained bounty with her There is a common saying about the little things being the neighbors and awoke the following day to find three pota- really important ones in life. And when you add up the toes. Each day she shared her good fortune with others little things, they become big things. And while most of and each day she was rewarded with more to share. At them can be explained, sometimes there is no explanation the end of Chanukah she found that she had a barrel of and you just have to assume you are the beneficiary of potatoes. The lesson of the story? Sharing our good for- a miracle. In the morning prayers each day, we are sup- tune results in more joy for everyone and greater reward. posed to thank God for a myriad of mundane things. We In our world we don’t often see miracles like the one in say thank you for being made in God’s image, thank you the folktale. We are bombarded by reports of disasters, making us free, thank you for the clothing we get to wear, violence, misery and strife. But maybe we just don’t hap- thank you for being provided with all we need, thank pen to notice the miracles that are around us every day you for being given strength. If we don’t say thank you – we are so absorbed in our routines, the stresses that con- for those little things, for those little gifts, we don’t even sume us, that we don’t see the miracles around us. remember that they are there and that we should be grate- ful for them. And those many little things add up to the Working with children (who aren’t your own!) makes it miracles in our lives. And when we share those miracles a little easier to see the miracles. I see them in the Gan with other people, they grow in size and importance. yard when one tiny child walks up to another who is crying and pats him on the back to console him. I see it This Chanukah share your little miracles with other peo- when a teacher explains an idea for the umpteenth time ple, with friends, family members, and strangers. Help and the light of understanding appears in a child’s eyes. I make little miracles for others whose delight you may see it over and over again when a young teenager who is never see or know. When we all do so, together, we have petrified stands up in front of the community for her Bat the strength and power to spread our miracles far and Mitzvah and, miraculously (in her mind, at least) leads us wide. in prayer, chants from the Torah, chants the Haftarah, and
Happy Chanukah
17 NEW MEMBERS Welcome New Member Patti Orozco Cronin. Daughter Chiara Cronin
Welcome to New Member Sarah Daniels By Jessica Teisch Sarah Daniels, a fourth-generation northern Californian and the grandchild of two Holocaust survivors who moved to Oakland in the 1950s and immediately felt at home at TBA after attending Shabbat services. She also appreciates the temple’s commitment to support each other and local community and dedication to tikkun olam by acting upon current events at home and abroad. Sarah is currently at the School of Public Health at UC Berkeley studying for her PhD student in the Environmental Health Sciences. Her specialty is studying new techniques to comprehensively exam- ine all environmental pollutants that contribute to chronic illnesses, particularly diabetes. In her free time, she also volunteers for and participates in a few local music and dance organizations.
A NOTE TO NEW MEMBERS: We would like to introduce you to the TBA community in an upcoming newsletter. Please send a short intro- duction of you and your family, with a digital photo, to [email protected]. Thanks!
Mazel Tov to Aaron Bukofzer and Julie Rubenstein on the birth of their Mazel Tov son, Jonah Jonah joins big sister Ayla Bukofzer Congratulations to Rachel Dornhelm and Andy Campbell on the birth of their new baby daughter, Emmy. xs
18 LIFE CYCLES Ethan Klein, December 5, 2015 To me, becoming a bar mitzvah symbolizes taking on the responsibilities of a Jewish adult, and it ties me to our community in a new role. I will be reliable to the community, as was Joseph in my Torah portion, Vayeshev, when he spurned advances by Potiphar’s wife. This Torah portion includes Joseph being favored by his father Jacob and then sold, out of jealousy, by his brothers and sisters. He later gets thrown in jail for a crime he did not commit, and, while in prison, he gains the trust of the chief jailer, and also the baker and cupbearer, whose dreams he interprets. B’nai Mitzvah I really appreciate and enjoy being part of the TBA community, which began for me when I attended pre-school at the Gan. Currently I am in seventh grade at St. Paul’s Episcopal School. For many years I’ve enjoyed playing guitar, saxophone, baseball, and soccer. And for many years I’ve been fortunate to have my Dad and Rabbi Bloom coaching me in those sports. My teachers at Bet Sefer and my bar mitzvah tutor, Outi Gould, have helped prepare me for this day, and I am thankful for all of the guidance and expertise they’ve shared. I hope that many of you will be there with my family and me when I become a bar mitzvah on the fifth of December.
Sponsor a Kiddush Do you have a simcha to celebrate or a person to remember? Share this occasion with your Temple Beth Abraham family. Call or send an email and Rayna, who can help arrange this for you.
Rayna Arnold, Executive Director [email protected] (510) 832-0936
19 LIFE CYCLES DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS 1 11 22 Jereme Albin Rachel Harris Rachel Barach Bruce Goldberg Sy David Schwartz Aaron Bukofzer Sara Korn 12 Amalia Dornhelm Campbell Julie Rubenstein Aurora Dornhelm Campbell Aaron Eliahu Ariele Scharff Carla Itzkowich Aron Gellman Vera Zatkin Carol Saidian Richard Stone 2 23 13 Gabriel Levy Nathaniel Ilfeld Avshalom Berrol Renee Marx Emily Sarit Pascal Marissa Glick Ari Varga 3 Tony Rose 24 Ilah Ross 14 Daniel B. Schotland Josh Weiss Hannah Benau 4 Lila Coltoff 25 Michael Rosenberg Carrie Garber Rachel Liron Aaron Skiles Steven Kay Jesse Shalev Hannah Tobin-Bloch Sheldon Rothblatt 27 5 15 Corey Davis Maytal Berla Zoe Abrams Ben Stiegler Miriam Green Judy Glick Susan Weiner Gabriel Halperin 16 28 6 Caroline Hastings Faith Kramer Eliana Bloomfield 17 Lynn Langfeld Zack Davis Sheila Millman Ila Albin Esther Rogers Max Baum 29 7 Michael Marx Gene Brott Ari Berl Joel Mendelson Marlene Dines 8 18 Peri Zangwill Robert Edesess Mia Harvitt 30 Russell Eisenman Rowan Mason Lara Gilman Sarah Goldman Amy Mezey Paul Leibovitch Juliet Hagar Colin Schlesinger Rachel Nosowsky Linda Knauer Rachel Zatkin Patti Orozco Cronin 9 20 John Parker Caren Shapiro Gaia Bostick Shosh Blachman Dana Sherne Johanna Ilfeld Stephen Shub Audrey Isabel Trilling Katya Marinoff 21 31 10 Andrew Dreyfuss Zoe Harvitt David Avidor Alan O’Neill David Joseph Ariel Spritzer-Satomi Tate Lev Schwartz Elliot Lenik Josephine Trilling Sam Weiner Is your birthday information wrong or missing from this list? Please contact the TBA office to make corrections. 20 LIFE CYCLES
May God comfort you among all the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem
KISLEV 19-22 Israel Stamer TEVET 7-13 TEVET 14-19 December 1-4 Robert S. Wallerstein December 19-25 December 26-31 Toni W. Berke Samuel Gevertz Lynn Dries-Daffner Arthur Braverman Louis Berman Rabbi Phillip Langh Helene Holeman Mary Brisky Marlene Berger Caspar Michael J. O’Rourke Yetta Lazerwitz-Miller Alan Greenberg Ida Hyman Sidney Winchell David Rosenstein Joseph Gusfield Anna Shalinsky Joseph Dorfman Goldie Steinberg Carolyn Sue Nightingale Benjamin Holeman Jack Gray Michael Wallerstein Erna Pikarski Arthur Wald Paul Trof Doris Held Paula Rotman Victorine Misan Minette Mogill Randy Diamant KISLEV 30-TEVET 6 Miriam Nudler December 12-18 Norman Stone Gitta Schneider Elul Samuel Rubin Sheldon Bereskin Betty Holloman David Freedman Sam Feltman Max Lutz Irving Kingston Morris Gelfand Masao Kishi Rabbi Hayim Goren Louis Rosenberg Jacob Kronrod Mordecai Parker Perelmuter Anna D. Weinstein Raymond Naggar Stanley Schechtman Sarah Libby Reich Eugene Weiss Harold Reid Jacob Bernstein Sam Barnett KISLEV 23-29 Jerrold Schoenblum Blemah Frankel-Jurman Murray R. Davis December 5-11 Samuel Bernstein Harold Charles Goldberg Stanley Heyman Richard Gutmann Leslie Kessler Irving Grutman Esther Isaacson Leon Klein Morris Leavitt George Hochman Becky Singer Phillip Mendelsohn Mark S. Bloom David Lazar Ethel Cohen Arthur Nightingale Bessie Kvint Ben Nathan Howard Cohen Goldie Turetz David Mehr Ramek Family David Holeman Nathan Dickson Ethel Mehr Rose Dancer Jay Michaelson Rebecca Epstein Fannie Shapiro Irene Kahn David Biatch Michael Fynland William Heeger Ruth Eisenman Abraham S. Couzin Rabbi Joel Goor Israel Rogers Lena Fass Bernard David Laytner Booker Sr. Holton Frieda Zilverberg Alfred Feldhammer Edwin H. Leuin Sophie Kranz Abraham Bercovich Abbey Rockmaker Rochelle Mason Samuel Morow Mendel H. Friedman Rose Rosenberg Raphael Benisty Louis Robinson Blanche Jacobs Herman Zubkoff Sydney Goldstein Goldberg Roselyn Jacob Kerbel Nathan Denenberg Bessie Ranzer Esther Asher Benjamin Millman Barry Goldberg Charlotte Resnick Herbert Allen Goodfellow Sam Silver Max Gross Richard Levine Jacob Frydman Meyer Kranz Rabbi Harold Schulweis Sadelle Kilmen Mark Leon Betty Gordon Grinberg William Malakoff Phillip Nathanson Kalman Klein Alice Rosenstein Sally Simon Rita Melamerson
Recent Deaths in Our Community Sophie Casson
21 DONATIONS
Charity is equal in importance to all the other commandments combined.
Davis Courtyard/Next Big Thing High Holy Day Appeal - John Rego & Deborah Kahane Project General Fund Rego David Levin Moira Belikoff David & Lori Rosenthal Jessica Siegel Isaac & Mindy Berla Daryl & Bryna Ross Sally & Victor Aelion, in honor of Harvey & Fran Blatter Klaus-Ullrich Rotzscher Agnes and Pinky Pencovic Herbert & Harriet Bloom Curtis & Adi Schacker Emily Asher Arnold & Marjorie Blustein Kevin Schwartz & Hilary Altman Charles Bernstein & Joanne Raphael Breines & Rinat Fried Richard & Florena Shapiro Goldstein Michael & Kathryn Burge Melvin & Janice Silverman Herbert & Harriet Bloom, in memory Ann Cohn Aaron & Rebecca Skiles of Blossom Goldfarb Virginia Davis Ruth Souroujon Barry & Cheri Feiner Jason Edelstein & Leah Wagner- Greg & Jessica Sterling Suzanne Goldstein Edelstein Stephen & Amy Tessler Neil Goteiner & Nadine Joseph Robert Edesess & Janet Lai Jerome & Beverly Turchin Fredric & Rose Hoffman Barry & Cheri Feiner Hugo & Laura Wildmann Stuart & Jeanne Korn David & Diane Feldhammer High Holy Day Appeal- Jerrold & Anne Levine, in memory of Joel & Jueli Garfinkle Endowment Fund Charlene Eberhart Ronald & Lynn Gerber Richard Levine & Frances Herb Dan & Jennifer Goodman Abrami Steven Glaser & Deena Aerenson Moira Belikoff Mark Liss & Bonnie Burt Reuven Glick & Marci Gottlieb Curtis & Adi Schacker Ellen Bercovich Jonathan Gordon & Michelle Isaac & Mindy Berla Ethel Shaffer, in memory of Abraham Oppen Harvey & Fran Blatter and Daniel Shaffer Warren & Outi Gould Herbert & Harriet Bloom Ethel Shaffer, in memory of Emma James Govert & Rachel Nosowsky Shaffer Arnold & Marjorie Blustein Steven Grossman & Jill Rosenthal Stephen & Susan Shub, from the Shub Raphael Breines & Rinat Fried Knut & Laura Grossmann Family -- in memory of Beth de la Torre Michael & Kathryn Burge Ward Hagar & Caroline Hastings Jonathan Shuster & Beth Sirull Virginia Davis Philip & Dina Hankin Shirley Silver, in memory of Sam Silver Jason Edelstein & Leah Wagner- Richard Heeger & Alice Hale Susan Simon Edelstein Aaron Sunshine & Maria Tostado Brett & Robyn Hodess Barry & Cheri Feiner Donald Jurow Vera Zatkin, in honor of Janet King’s David & Diane Feldhammer birthday Sheldon Kahn & Sarah Liron Joel & Jueli Garfinkle Amy Kaminer Jeanette Jeger Kitchen Fund Ronald & Lynn Gerber Melvin & Margaret Kaplan Steven Glaser & Deena Aerenson Jack Coulter, in memory of Arthur & Joseph Karwat & Dr. Stacy Month Reuven Glick & Marci Gottlieb Gertrude Yarman Robert Klein & Doreen Alper Jack Coulter, in memory of Cora Eve Gordon-Ramek Stuart & Jeanne Korn Warren & Outi Gould Coulter, Irving & Dorothy Dronsick Michael Kubalik & Tammy Lee Robert Klein & Doreen Alper James Govert & Rachel , in Marshall & Lynn Langfeld memory of Faith Kramer’s Sister Nosowsky JB Leibovitch & Judy Chun Joel Piser & Jing Weng Hsieh, in Steven Grossman & Jill memory of Monroe Mendel Piser Gabriel & Angela Levy Rosenthal David & Jill Lindenbaum Knut & Laura Grossmann Bet Sefer Discretionary Fund Mark Liss & Bonnie Burt Ward Hagar & Caroline Hastings Moira Belikoff Judy Craddick Maccabee Philip & Dina Hankin Desten Broach & Franci Kursh Michael & Renee Marx Richard Heeger & Alice Hale Jonathan Gordon & Michelle Oppen David & Stephanie Mendelsohn Brett & Robyn Hodess in memory of Linda Gordon Adam & Diana Miller Donald Jurow Daniel Harvitt & Liz Willner Larry Miller & Mary Kelly Sheldon Kahn & Sarah Liron Adam & Diana Miller Peter Miller & Bess Gurman Amy Kaminer Gan Avraham Discretionary Shelby & Adrienne Miller Melvin & Margaret Kaplan Fund Sylvia Miller Joseph Karwat & Dr. Stacy David Levin, in loving memory of Loren Drew & Kelsi Perttula Month Siegel Lawrence Polon & Ernestina Carrillo Robert Klein & Doreen Alper Stuart & Jeanne Korn
22 DONATIONS
Marshall & Lynn Langfeld Isobel Dvorsky, in memory of Dr. Harry Joseph & Judith Epstein, in memory of Gabriel & Angela Levy Dvorsky Sarah Epstein David & Jill Lindenbaum Glenn & Amy Friedman, in memory Michael Stevens, thank you to Ulli Mark Liss & Bonnie Burt of Augusta Saretsky Rotzcher Judy Craddick Maccabee Stanley & Joan Gross, in memory of Blossom Goldfarb Rabbi Discretionary Fund Dan & Amy Maidenberg Sandra Sher Libby Hertz, in memory of Sidney Hertz , in honor of Marge & Arnie Michael & Renee Marx Blustein’s new family member “Archie” Brett & Robyn Hodess, in memory of Elan & Roberta Masliyah Harvey & Donna Clar Bernard Hodess , in memory of David & Stephanie Mendelsohn Sam Clar Adele Mendelsohn-Keinon & Irwin Adam & Diana Miller Barry & Cheri Feiner Keinon, deepest sympathy for the loss Larry Miller & Mary Kelly of Blossom Goldfarb Murray & Janet Gordon, in memory Peter Miller & Bess Gurman Adele Mendelsohn-Keinon & Irwin of Clarence Markus Shelby & Adrienne Miller Keinon, thanks for the ride to Jack Randall & Jan Kessler, in memory of Mikhail & Svetlana Partsuf Coulter!! Isaac Kessler Herman & Agnes Pencovic Adele Mendelsohn-Keinon & Irwin Judy Craddick Maccabee, in memory Drew & Kelsi Perttula Keinon, wishing Edie Mills a fast of Howard Maccabee John Rego & Deborah Kahane recovery Shirley Silver, in honor of Jonah Bloom Rego Eugene & Marjorie Myers, in memory Ronald & Vicki Weller, in memory of David & Lori Rosenthal of Arthur Myers Harriet Bloom’s sister Blossom Goldfarb Daryl & Bryna Ross Alan S. & Eve O. Rosenfeld, in honor Cantor Discretionary Fund of Marshall Langfeld’s birthday Klaus-Ullrich Rotzscher Barry & Cheri Feiner Barry & Hana Rotman, in memory of Curtis & Adi Schacker Susan Kasdan, in memory of Bernard Ken Rotman Bryan Schwartz & Alicia Cernitz- Kasdan Schwartz Curtis & Adi Schacker Ethel Shaffer Bryan Schwartz & Alicia Cernitz- Endowment Fund Schwartz Melvin & Janice Silverman , in memory of Abigail Ilya & Regina Okh, in memory of my Kotzin’s father, Michael Kotzin Susan Simon mother Klara Okh Michael Stevens, in memory of my sister Aaron & Rebecca Skiles Sarah Stevens Zorowitz Mollie Hertz Interfaith Fund Ruth Souroujon Gerald & Ruby Hertz, in memory of Greg & Jessica Sterling Kiddush Fund Sarah Morofsky Fifi Goodfellow, in memory of Yvonne Stephen & Amy Tessler Leo and Helen Wasserman Hugo & Laura Wildmann Marcus Adult Education Fund General Fund Donation Minyan Fund Cherryne Kravitz, in memory of Albert Sandra Sher, in memory of Victor Martin & Evelyn Hertz Kravitz Reis - thank you TBA for showing the Robert Klein & Doreen Alper, in Marc & Janet Wasserman, in memory “Metal Man”movie memory of my beloved friend Judy of Helen Wasserman Kelly Rosales Stolow Marcy Belfer, in memory of Reba Aaron & Eva Paul, in honor of Ulli Schechtman Rotzscher Moira Belikoff Virginia Tiger, in honor of Ulli’s beauti- Charles Bernstein & Joanne Goldstein, ful book bindery work with gratitude to Virginia & Rayna for Yom Ha Shoa Fund assistance during High Holy Days
It is a Jewish tradition to give contributions to commemorate life cycle events and other occasions. Are you cel- ebrating a birthday, engagement, anniversary, baby naming, Bat/Bar Mitzvah or recovery from illness? Or per- haps remembering a yahrzeit? These are just a few ideas of appropriate times to commemorate with a donation to Temple Beth Abraham. These tax-deductible donations are greatly appreciated and are a vital financial supplement to support the wonderful variety of programs and activities that we offer. Thanks again for your support! We could not do it without you! Thank you for your generosity. Please make checks payable to Temple Beth Abraham and mail to: 336 Euclid Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610 or donate online at http://tbaoakland.org/giving/donate
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Bo Vaera Yitro Shemot Havdalah (42 min) Havdalah (42 min) Havdalah (42 min) Havdalah (42 min) Havdalah (42 min) Beshalach 7p TBA Auction-- 7p TBA 80’s PROM NIGHT!! 80’s
6:12p 1:00 Mah Jongg (Chapel) 9:30a-12p Shabbat Service 10:15 Shabbat Mishpacha 5:50p 5:44p 5:57p 6:04p 10:15 Junior Congregation 9:30a-12p Shabbat Service 9:30a-12p Shabbat Service Bat Mitzvah of Maya Weiss 9:30a-12p Shabbat Services 9:30a-12p Shabbat Services Bar Mitzvah of Paul Leibovitch Bat Mitzvah of Ariana Rukin Bat Mitzvah of 13 Sh’vat 6 Sh’vat 21 Tevet 28 Tevet 1 8 January 2016 22 29 15
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7:30p WTBA Girls Night Out WTBA 7:30p 18 Sh’vat 11 Sh’vat 4 Sh’vat 26 Tevet 7:30-9p Jewish Women’s Meditation Women’s 7:30-9p Jewish offsite contact Jill Lindenbaum contact Group- offsite 6 27 20 13 7p BBYO-AZA and BBG 7p BBYO-AZA 7p BBYO-AZA and BBG 7p BBYO-AZA 7p BBYO-AZA and BBG 7p BBYO-AZA 7p BBYO-AZA and BBG 7p BBYO-AZA 17 Sh’vat 10 Sh’vat 3 Sh’vat 25 Tevet 9a Weekly Text Study (Woodminster) Text 9a Weekly 9a Weekly Text Study (Woodminster) Text 9a Weekly 9a Weekly Text Study (Woodminster) Text 9a Weekly 9a Weekly Text Study (Woodminster) Text 9a Weekly 5 26 19 12
vat ’ h B’ s dinner class sara 4p-6p Bet Sefer 4p-6p Bet Sefer 4p-6p Bet Sefer 4p-6p Bet Sefer a 7:30p TBA Board Meeting TBA 7:30p 6:15-8:15p Kitah Dalet V’ahavta 6:15-8:15p Kitah Dalet 16 Sh’vat 9 Sh’vat 2 Tsihrei 24 Tevet ay 4 . D r 11 25 18 J are produced 30-60 days in advance using the best data available from the TBA Administration Staff. This calendar is also available at our website the TBA 30-60 days in advance using the best data available from produced are ing vat ’ h K ho D esh s i C B u uther osh t L r 9a Rosh Chodesh Gan and Office Closed Gan and Office 8a-9a Minyan (Chapel) 9-10a Minyan (Chapel) 8a-9a Minyan (Chapel) 8a-9a Minyan (Chapel) artin Always check the Congregational E-mail or the Weekly Shabbat Bulletin for more up-to-date information. Please note any corrections care of Rayna Arnold at the TBA office. Arnold at the TBA of Rayna care up-to-date information. Please note any corrections Shabbat Bulletin for more E-mail or the Weekly Always check the Congregational M (Contact Amy Tessler for details) Tessler Amy (Contact 15 Sh’vat 8 Sh’vat 1 Sh’vat 23 Tevet -
3 Calendars in The Omer 24 10 17 31
with Rabbi Bloom WTBA Tu B’shvat celebration B’shvat Tu WTBA 7th Grade trip to Los Angeles 7th Grade trip to Los with Bette Birnbaum - Adult Ed - Birnbaum with Bette CityTeam-Volunteer to Feed the Hungry CityTeam-Volunteer Men’s Club Game Night at TBA Night at Club Game Men’s 10a-12p Bikhor Cholim Workshop Workshop 10a-12p Bikhor Cholim 10a-12p Eric Golub - author, speak Golub - author, 10a-12p Eric ing about his Book - Jewish Lunacy 14 Sh’vat 7 Sh’vat 29 Tevet 22 Tevet 21 Sh’vat 5p Tevet 5776 / Sh’vat Tevet 25 Temple Beth Abraham PERIODICALS 327 MacArthur Boulevard POSTAGE P A I D Oakland, CA 94610 Oakland, CA Permit No. 020299
Spend Erev Xmas with your Temple Beth Abraham family. Details on page 7.
WHAT’S INSIDE TBA Directory...... i Men’s Club...... 7 Cooking Corner...... 14 What’s Happening...... 1 Youth Scholarships...... 8 Gan Avraham News...... 16 From the Rabbi...... 2 Adult Ed...... 9 Bet Sefer News...... 17 From the President...... 3 Chavurah...... 10 New Members...... 18 Editors Column...... 4 Volunteer Board...... 10 Life Cycles...... 19 Six Word Memoirs...... 5 The Courtyard Project...... 11 Donations...... 22 Volunteer Bulletin Board...... 7 Chesed Committee...... 12 Calendar...... 24 Women of TBA...... 6 Menorah Selfies...... 13