JANUARY 2007 / 5767 Mid-Year Membership Meeting, Sunday, January 28, 10 a.m., bagels and coffee Rosh Chodesh Shevat Sunday, January 21, 11 a.m. The Ladder – Please join us in the Friedman Center for Journey into Mussar our Annual Rosh Chodesh Tu B’Shevat Seder. Celebrate the Jewish New Year of trees and plants with delicious food and wine. “The goal of Mussar practice is All Jewish women are invited. Tickets for the Tu to release the light of B’Shevat Seder are $7 in advance and $8 at the holiness that lives within the soul.” door. To reserve tickets call Bonnie Boren at 528-1628 or Vivian Klein Join your fellow learners/seekers in an at 538-8679. eight module course learning Mussar texts All proceeds from this event will be donated to Beth Ami’s General and practices. The Ladder is an introduction Fund. Please see the schedule of all Rosh Chodesh dates on page 6. to the study and spiritual growth offered by Mussar. Mussar’s purpose is to help people understand New American Photography the ways of the soul. The teachings guide one in overcoming the obstacles that keep one from The Contemporary Jewish Museum coming into inner wholeness (shelmut), holiness San Francisco (kedushah) and closeness to G-d. The goals of Sunday, January 21, 1 p.m. - ? Mussar are suitable for and attainable by all, The Jewish Identity Project: New American Photography regardless of backround. This exhibit challenges the stereotype that all are white, middle- For information contact the office or Maralee class, and of European descent. Joseph, 996-6824. Fee $40 includes a syllabus and We’ve scheduled a private docent-led tour of this exhibit from 2:30 will be used to support future speakers. - 3:30 p.m. The per person price will be $3-$5 depending on the number Congregant and Course Leader Maralee of people who attend the tour. Joseph has studied Mussar for six years with Please call the office if you’d like to attend. We’ll meet at Beth Alan Morinis, author of “Climbing ’s Ami, arrange car pools and go out for a nosh afterwards in San Francisco. Ladder” and founder of the Mussar Institute. Appropriate for ages 10 and above.

Tuesdays 7 - 8:30 p.m., 8 sessions INSIDE THIS ISSUE... ’s Remarks ...... page 3 Nursery School News ...... page 9 January 9 & January 23 Announcements & Events...page 4 Generous Contributions .... page 10 February 13 January Calendar ...... page 5 Yahrzeits, Birthdays & Anniversaries March 13 & March27 Book Discussion Series ..... page 6 ...... page 11 April 17 President’s Page ...... page 7 Jewish Community Announcements May 1 & May 15 Your USY ...... page 7 ...... page 12 Literary Lines ...... page 8 Advertisements ...... pages 13-14 Religious Practices ...... page 8 Dinner RSVP ...... page 15 Left Coast ...... page 9 January Services ...... back page Congregation Beth Ami Congregation Beth Ami 4676 MAYETTE AVENUE Mission Statement SANTA ROSA, CA 95405 (707) 360-3000 Through celebration, learning, prayer and (707) 360-3003 FAX community, we seek to enrich our lives, transform [email protected] our hearts, help heal the world and WWW.BETHAMISR.ORG Rabbi George Schlesinger sustain our Jewish heritage. Hours of Operation Office Library Gift Shop Monday 12 - 4 p.m. 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. closed Tuesday 12 - 4 p.m. 3:45 - 6 p.m. 3 - 5 p.m. Wednesday closed closed closed Thursday 12 - 4 p.m. 3:45 - 6 p.m. 3 - 5 p.m. Friday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. closed closed Saturday closed closed closed Sunday closed 9:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. 10 a.m.- 12:30 p.m.

DEADLINE FOR PERSONNEL Karen Gould, Newsletter Susanne Batzdorff, Rabbi George 360-3000 Librarian FEBRUARY Schlesinger [email protected] [email protected] JANUARY 15 360-3004 Lenore Monsour, 360-3006 [email protected] Nursery School Director Rick Concoff Juli Scherer, Ex. Director 360-3030 Kehillah Director 360-3012 [email protected] 360-3000 All editorial submissions must [email protected] Elisabeth Van Nuys, Sharon Benson, be received in the Shofar box Religious School Director USY Advisor Eric Mossman, in the Beth Ami office or via Bookkeeper 360-3000 (858) 735-8816 [email protected] [email protected] email on or before the 360-3011 deadline. All submissions [email protected] Ruth Turner, Call the office at are subject to editing for Elizabeth Jarlsberg, Friedman Center Director 360-3000 to leave Adminstrative Support 360-3021 a message for: clarity, brevity and 360-3000 [email protected] •Rosalie Schweit, content. Please submit [email protected] Susy Raful & Helen Gift Shop Invitations articles as Microsoft Word Margolese, Gift Shop •Patty Bernstein, documents via email 360-3022 / Reading attachments. Contact Karen Gould, Editor, at 360-3000 or [email protected] at [email protected] with VP for Facilities, 2006-2007 Youth Programs, Jon Simkovitz corrections, concerns or Michele Guttenberg OFFICERS [email protected] questions. [email protected] Library Committee Chair, The Shofar is a periodical AND BOARD OF Susanne Batzdorff issued monthly except for a Members at Large [email protected] combined May/June/July DIRECTORS Zach Baurer Nursery School Committee issue. It is published by President, Andy Fleming [email protected] Co-Chair, Judy Gunnar [email protected] Bonnie Boren Congregation Beth Ami, 4676 [email protected] Treasurer, Henry Cohn [email protected] Mayette Avenue, Santa Rosa, Nursery School Committee [email protected] Richard Kahn CA 95405. All members in Co-Chair, Richard Lazovick Secretary, Robin Winning [email protected] good standing receive the [email protected] [email protected] Religious Practices periodical free. Yearly VP for Administration, Members Ex Officio Committee Chair, subscriptions are $25.00. This Al Batzdorff Rabbi George Schlesinger Patty Bernstein month’s issue is: [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Volume 12 VP for Youth and Education, Juli Scherer Religious School Issue 5 Dave Ballo [email protected] Committee Chair, Issue Date: January 1, 2007 [email protected] Marcia Gladstone Val Kreger [email protected] January 2007 • Congregation Beth Ami Shofar • page 2 RABBI’S REMARKS The Schlesinger’s Sabbatical: December 24 - February 2 Rabbi George Schlesinger screen so that everyone will be able to sing along with the cast. Just a week later on the weekend of March 9-11, we’ll A look ahead be host to Cantor Howard Shalowitz as part of a special Now that Chanukah is over and we’re into winter, it’s time program sponsored by the Cantor’s Assembly of the Conser- to begin thinking about everything we will be doing at the syn- vative Movement. We are able to participate in the Cantor’s agogue during the spring. It seems that it’s always necessary Ambassador program which brings professional cantors to to be planning ahead. And since I will not be present at the smaller that cannot afford a cantor and which annual mid-year congregational meeting (still being with Paula therefore miss out on some of the beauty of Jewish music as on her sabbatical from Autodesk), I thought it might be appro- heard through the davening and also the knowledge of the priate for me to share with you some of the program ideas history and development of Jewish music. Cantor Shalowitz coming during the remainder of the year. will be with us the entire weekend and will share both his Beginning in January, Maralee Joseph will begin a musical/vocal talents as well as his knowledge of Jewish mu- class on the Mussar Movement in . Mussar sic: its history and development. movement refers to a education and cultural In addition to hosting Cantor Shalowitz, we will take the movement (a “Jewish Moralist Movement”) that developed in opportunity that Shabbat morning to honor our volunteer 19th century Eastern European Orthodoxy particularly among Hazzanim…especially Brooke Kantor, Lou Menachof the Lithuanian Jews. The term mussar, while literally derived and Werner Berg. These three men have been stalwarts of from a word meaning “tradition,” usually refers to Jewish eth- our for many years, and the congregation is ics in general. Mussar is a path of contemplative practices truly indebted to them for their dedication and devotion to the and exercises that have evolved over the past thousand years . Now, as Brooke retires and he and Carolyn leave to help an individual soul to pinpoint and then to break through Sonoma County for Guanajuato, Mexico, and Lou joins his the barriers that surround and obstruct the flow of inner light in beloved wife Sandy at our neighboring synagogue, Congrega- our lives. Mussar is a treasury of techniques and understand- tion Shomrei Torah, we need to say thank-you to them. ing that offers immensely valuable guidance for the journey of It was felt that this weekend with Cantor Shalowitz would our lives. The goal of Mussar practice is to release the light of be the most appropriate time to pay tribute to these men who holiness that lives within the soul. The roots of all of our have led us through the holidays. And since there are also thoughts and actions can be traced to the depths of the soul, others who lead the congregation’s services either as regular beyond the reach of the light of consciousness, and so the leaders on weekdays or on Shabbat when I’m either ill or methods Mussar provides include meditations, guided contem- away, we will also take the opportunity to honor them for their plations, exercises and chants that are all intended to pene- contribution to our congregation. I hope you will be in shul trate down to the darkness of the subconscious, to bring about that weekend to hear our guest, to learn from him as well, and change right at the root of our nature. The schedule for this to honor your fellow congregants who do so much for this class is on the front page. congregation. Then, in March (Saturday, March 3), arrives April begins with Pesach and the congregation’s and, as indicated by overwhelming response after the community Seder on the second night of , but Megillah According to the Beatles, we will be present- then just a couple nights later (still during Passover ing the Motown Megillah this year. Under the coordina- week), we’ll have our monthly Shabbat dinner with a tion and direction of Kyle Marsh, the singers, actors, and mu- very special menu. It will be an entirely Kosher for Pass- sicians are already gearing up for a stirring Motown rendition over dinner, but something radically different than the usual of the story of Purim. Of course, the more singers, actors and “chicken, brisket, gefilte fish, and tzimmes” Pesach dinners musicians we have in the production, the more fun we will that we’re so used to. The restricted list of ingredients on have. As one of the lead singers has said, “If you can breathe, Pesach have lead modern Jewish cooks to ever greater cre- you can be part of the production.” We would certainly wel- ativity and culinary expertise so you will be pleasantly sur- come everyone interested in just having some fun with the prised by what Andrea can do for this dinner. Again, even Motown melodies and the Purim lyrics. In addition to the tradi- though many of you will have just had Seder with us on Tues- tional reading of the Megillah and the extra production from day night, April 3, I hope you’ll join us for Shabbat dinner on Motown, we’re going to have a gala Purim banquet that Sat- April 6. urday night before the rest of the festivities. It will be an These are a few of the special programs planned for the opportunity to come in costume and share in the fun and frivol- spring in addition to our ongoing Bible and classes. ity. Of course, even if you cannot attend the Purim banquet I hope you will avail yourselves of some (if not all) of and even if you cannot participate in the production, I certainly these wonderful opportunities. hope you’ll be in attendance to sing along from your seat in the I will return to the congregation at the beginning of Feb- audience. As we did last year, we’ll project the lyrics onto the ruary and I look forward to seeing you then.

January 2007 • Congregation Beth Ami Shofar • page 3 ANNOUNCEMENTS & EVENTS

Welcome to our new member Thank you to everyone for visiting me in the hospital. I appreciate the flowers, Marilyn Salsman Stockfleth happy children, smiling faces and good company. They helped me get well sooner. I also appreciate the phone that was installed in my room so that I could speak with Adult B’nai Mitzvah friends and family. Class Thanks with all my heart for the sympathy and kindness Orientation Meeting, offered to me on the death of my dear daughter-in-law Nina. Wednesday, February 7, 7 Words cannot express how appreciative I am. p.m. Special thanks to Rabbi Schlesinger for his immense support Are you interested in making a and caring during this period of time. commitment to studying for your Bar or Bat Mitzvah? ~Sheyna Bakman Come to an orientation meeting on Wednesday, February 7 at Congregation Beth Ami. Ongoing programs at Beth Ami Get down with Motown at the Torah Study with Rabbi Schlesinger will resume on Thursday, February 8, 7 p.m. in the Friedman Center Motown Megillah & Purim Banquet Boardroom Saturday, March 3, 2007 This festive evening includes dinner by Andrea Nett, TUESDAY and a vibrant Megillah reading where you’ll be “Dancing ♦Exercise Class, 9-10:30 a.m., Social Hall in the Streets” and “Hearing it through the Grapevine.” offered by the JCC Friendship Circle Prices and reservation form will be available in ♦Conversational Hebrew with Judy Clack February. Beginning Level, 10-11 a.m., Room 14 Singers, dancers and actors, ♦Israeli Folk Dancing musicians, and volunteers of all ages 7 p.m., Friedman Center. For more info contact Leanne Schy at needed. 528-4874 or [email protected]. Audition Date: Sunday, January 14, 1 p.m. in the Social Hall. THURSDAY Contact Kyle Marsh, 849-2407. ♦Exercise Class, 9-10:30 a.m., Social Hall offered by the JCC Friendship Circle ♦ The Susy Raful essay contest Conversational Hebrew with Judy Clack Intermediate Level Jewish High School students throughout Sonoma 10-11 a.m., Room 14 County are invited to submit essays for the seventh annual contest, established by her children, in honor of Susy Raful, FRIDAY a survivor of concentration camps and an infamous Death ♦Exercise Class, 10-11:15 a.m., Social Hall March. Instructor Barbara Goodridge will teach class in the Social Hall The contest seeks the students reflections on the every Friday, except for the first Friday of the month when Holocaust (Shoah) by considering a number of questions class will be held in lounge. about their thoughts on the images and impact of the Shoah; offered by the JCC Friendship Circle what the writer has learned; and how the history of that ♦Shabbat Yoga, 4:15 - 5:15 p.m., Lounge, 1st Friday each era will be passed on to future generations. month. Call Hannah Caratti 578-4040 for more information. Detailed information and rules covering the $500 prize can be found at the Congregation Beth Ami website: SUNDAY www.bethamisr.org, under the link “News & Events.” ♦Meditation/Chant Essays are due no later than March 30, 2007. 9:45-10:45 a.m., Friedman Center Chapel ~Bob Raful

January 2007 • Congregation Beth Ami Shofar • page 4 January 2007 • Congregation Beth Ami Shofar • page 5 Simcha Board THE 24nd ANNUAL Tree of Life BOOK DISCUSSION

Honor thy father, and thy mother...also SERIES thy aunt, uncle, cousin, child, best friend, teacher with an engraved leaf on Once again we invite you to participate in a our Simcha Board commemorating any book discussion series that has attracted many joyous occasion, bestowal of an honor, folks who love books that stretch your mind and challenge your imagination and to discuss them with like-minded people. or cause for thanksgiving. We meet at Congregation Beth Ami in Room 12-13 on the first Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. beginning in November. Leaf $360 Here is our schedule: Small Stones $1000 Large Stones $2500 BOOK TITLE AUTHOR DISCUSSION DATE

We also provide the opportunity for you 3) The Namesake Jhumpa Lahiri Jan 3 to memorialize loved ones on our 4) A Simple Story S. Y. Agnon Feb 8 Yahrzeit Board. 5) The March E. L. Doctorow Mar 7 A plaque is $450. 6) The Sabbath A. J. Heschel Apr 11 7) Ten Thousand Lovers Edeet Ravel May 2 8) Foiglman Aharon Megged June 6 9) Like Never Before Ehud Havazelet July 11

New members are welcome. If you have questions, please call Susanne Batzdorff at 538-9731.

Well earned Sabbatical, Kehillah/Teens seven weeks Jewish community-wide teen (8th-12th grade) program combines this winter. Who will dinner, socializing and a lively discussion of Jewish ideals and ethics. we be Kids who say no to everything say yes to Kehillah. while the rabbi’s gone? Led by Rick Concoff ~Mark Rosen Contact the Beth Ami office, 360-3000 for more information. 5767 Rosh Chodesh Women’s Gatherings Month Date Time Location Shevat Sunday, 1/21/07 11 a.m. Friedman Center Sunday, 2/18/07 11 a.m. Social Hall Nissan Monday, 3/19/07 7 p.m. Friedman Center Wednesday, 4/18/07 7 p.m. Friedman Center Thursday, 5/17/07 7 p.m. Friedman Center Saturday, 6/16/07 overnight fun private home Monday, 7/16/07 7 p.m. Friedman Center Wednesday, 8/15/07 7 p.m. Friedman Center

January 2007 • Congregation Beth Ami Shofar • page 6 PRESIDENT’S PAGE YOUR USY Andy Fleming Sharon Benson

Programming and identity USY is your organization because you are the One of my ongoing interests and concerns as President has leaders. It’s where the Conservative Movement been to bring our synagogue’s mission and purpose into sharp focus. is building Jewish leaders for the 21st century. At At one time, Beth Ami was the de facto Jewish Community Center the international, regional, and chapter levels, for Santa Rosa. Anyone who wished to identify with the Jewish USYers take responsibility in several program community would consider joining Beth Ami, as it was the only areas. Here you can learn more about these areas, Jewish institution in town that had a facility, and that generated while learning what it means to be part of USY. programs and activities for Jews. Our mission and purpose was to Hi my name is Sharon Benson and I am the serve the Jewish community in whatever way our members thought new SCUSY Advisor. I currently attend Sonoma beneficial. State University where I am studying Event Today, anyone in Sonoma County identifying as Jewish can Planning. When I was in high school I too was choose from a variety of organizations that express commitment to part of a Jewish youth group. The friends I made Judaism and Jewish values. and the experiences Beth Ami is one of the choices. I had have led me My concern is that when Congregation Beth Ami Vision back to becoming an advisor. someone does face this A vibrant, growing campus for Jewish living choice, what is it that differentiates us from the where the joys of Jewish values and rituals Reminder: th th other Jewish options? If a Jew, are made accessible and relevant to the everyday ALL 9 -12 grade CBA seeking community, lives of our members. researches the choices, how Kehillah students can he or she compare their A flourishing, prospering congregation are SCUSY own values to those of Beth enjoying the wholehearted support, commitment members. Ami, and thus make a positive, and involvement of all our members. informed choice? We have sought to shape our focus by developing an overarching vision of our programming. The programs that we offer come from two sources. The first source comes out of the demand and desire of our members for particular CALENDAR OF programming that they initiate and create together. Rosh Chodesh VENTS is a good example of such a program. These types of programs USY E reflect what Beth Ami is, and what we value. The second type of program grows out of the obligation of our January 2007 organization to develop programs that challenge our members to 1/13 Bowling Night increase the depth and breadth of their Jewish knowledge and 1/26-1/28 SNUSY Ski Weekend experience. Our programming committee works with the Rabbi to create opportunities for Jewish growth and learning. Looking ahead, February 2007 we anticipate offerings such as Hebrew classes accessible to 2/4 Lox Boxes everyone, educational services parallel to our regular prayer services, 2/16-2/18 ISS and adult B’nai Mitzvah classes. There is a new offering based on Mussar texts and practice. These programs reflect the core vision May 2007 – Jewish growth and learning – that is Beth Ami. Indeed, these programs define and describe a vision of Beth 5/25-5/28 May Convention Ami that has begun to emerge. It is a vision based on offering opportunity. In addition to creating community, and serving the Jewish If you have any questions or just want to talk community, it is a vision that allows members to explore their Judaism I’m always available by phone at 858/735-8816 as deeply and broadly as they wish. I believe that Beth Ami is the or by email at [email protected] best place in Sonoma County to do so – and that is our ultimate Looking forward to seeing you at one of our purpose. events.

January 2007 • Congregation Beth Ami Shofar • page 7 RELIGIOUS LITERARY LINES PRACTICES Susanne Batzdorff Patty Bernstein

Practice, practice, practice A new year is beginning and as we bid farewell to the year that That’s the gag response to the has just ended, we in the library also bid farewell to a loyal supporter of the question “Hey, mister! How do I get to library, a lover of books and reading, Josephine Epstein. She did not quite reach Carnegie Hall? ” Always good for a her 90th birthday, a milestone to which she had been eagerly looking forward. laugh, there’s a good deal of truth in it, Though plagued by illness and personal sorrows, Jo never waned in her enthusiasm too, for practice is what we need to for reading and learning, especially in the area of American history and Judaic become accomplished. I wonder if that lore. She gave generously to the library for many years and we owe her our is what’s meant by a practicing Jew. appreciation and remember her with fondness. May she rest in peace. If you’re among those who find the We observed Jewish Book Month on Saturday, December 9 with a status ritual, , or laws of Judaism baffling report on the library and book talks by Susanne Batzdorff and Noorillah Karr. In — or if not knowing Hebrew keeps you case you missed it, here are the titles we spoke about: away from services, let me suggest that continued exposure and, yes, practice will ♦ Christopher Columbus’s Jewish Roots, by Jane Frances Amler increase your comfort level. Come to the ♦ Spain, the Jews and Franco, by Haim Avni family dinner. Come to Friday night ♦ Born to Kvetch, by Michael Wex services. Come Shabbat morning and stay for lunch (don’t forget — it’s Book reviews of “Our Congregants Favorite Books” are on display in the potluck.) Soon the music will become exhibit case in the Social Hall. familiar and if you don’t know the words, 24th ANNUAL BOOK DISCUSSION SERIES, 2006-2007 you can just la-la-la along. More than one Our next meeting will be January 3 at 10 a.m. in Room 12-13, of our members started just that way. Congregation Beth Ami. Our topic will be The Namesake by Jumpha Lahiri. If you don’t read Hebrew, you can The entire schedule is on page 6. For additional information call Susanne follow the transliterations in our — Batzdorff, 538-9731. or read the English interpretation on the left page. Sometimes, it’s nice to be introspective and linger silently over one Or Ami particular phrase or prayer, enjoy time and space to really communicate with G- Religious d. And sit with someone who seems to know what’s going on. Teaching is a School mitzvah—give someone an opportunity to do one. If you’re interested in delving deeper 3rd & 4th into and becoming more involved in your faith, join the adult B’nai Mitzvah class Grade that’s starting up. What a great opportunity to be really proactive. Mitzvah Judaism’s ritual and liturgy may not be Carnegie Hall, but if you really want to Project get there—practice, practice, practice. Let’s show our strength in numbers for in shul—supporting lay leaders in January. If you’d like to participate in any The way, please let me know. Interfaith Adult B’nai Mitzvah Shelter Orientation Meeting Wednesday, February 7, 7 p.m. Network Come find out more! January 2007 • Congregation Beth Ami Shofar • page 8 ISRAEL FROM THE NURSERY SCHOOL NEWS LEFT COAST Lenore Monsour Bob Raful

“How was your trip to Israel?” This is the question December was filled with joyful festivities. The Nursery most frequently asked of us in past years. This year has School’s three and four year olds sang My Dreydl and Burn Little been different. More people than ever have said, “We Candle at the annual Chanukah Friendship Circle luncheon. The are planning a trip to Israel. What can you tell us about children were especially cute as they held their own blue paper _____?” towel tube candles with scrunched up yellow tissue paper flames. In spite of the balagan (confusion, turmoil) and They entertained the friends of the Friendship Circle and brought matsav (the situation), Israel continues to exert a magic pleasure and smiles. The smiles were gift enough, but Barbara attraction for both Jews and non-Jews alike. Scharf had tiny Chanukah spiral note pads for each delighted child For those seeking a spiritual renewal there a more to take home.Thank you Barbara for inviting us to share the places to pray and study than one can count. For sun, moment. sand, beach nothing can beat Eilat, if you don’t mind Our little Chanukah party was held on December 20. Rabbi competing with Germans and Brits. Holocaust memories Schlesinger sang the familiar Chanukah songs with the children are most impressive when viewed through the exhibits at and helped us say the blessing over the candles. Kate Hewitt told the updated Yad Vashem Memorial building. The variety the story of the Chanukah Guest along with clever props that of tourist attractions is almost unparalleled – desert to delighted the children. Leticia Sotelo baked extra special cut-out mountains to sea to plains to modern cities and quaint cookies for each child to put in their goody bags. Thank you Rabbi villages – and all of these with close ties to the history of Schlesinger, Kate Hewitt and Leticia Sotelo for helping to make our Jewish people. our little Chanukah a special one. Perhaps that is why so many people have talked to We have completed First 5’s “Children and Families me about Israel plans, sharing travel secrets and asking Commission Library Mini Grant for Early Literacy.” We now have questions. a Mini Resource room for the teachers. They can check out books In addition to Rabbi Schlesinger and Paula, who need to read to the children to complement their curriculum. We have no advice, in the past few weeks I have talked to Andy plans to expand our collection in the future by having books donated and Nancy Fleming, Marge and Ballo, Barbara from an updated list to help celebrate a birthday or special event. Scharf, Carl Servin, Nancy and Ed Sherman, and Eli The teachers and staff have completed our regular CPR Cohen and Betty Boyd (who are planning an important training. We are pleased to announce that we all passed the test! seminar on “Hasbara” in mid-May 2007). We are grateful to the Community Child Care Council of Sonoma I recite these names to encourage others to think County, Inc. for reimbursing the training fee provided by a special about travel to Israel. The most profound way to show health grant. solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Israel is to go We had our first evening parent workshop on November 5. and enjoy. The evening workshop accommodated the working schedules of Next year in . many parents who can’t attend our usual morning seminars. “Choosing a Kindergarten” was the subject presented by the panel which included local public and private school teachers, a principal, a director of admissions, and our own Bonnie Romanow. Bonnie INVITATIONS spoke about how parents can help their child transition to Beth Ami Gift Shop Kindergarten. Since it was our first Stop by or call to see workshop of this type, we had no idea it would be so well attended. Twenty- albums of beautiful five parents arrived and were treated invitations to a light dinner provided by for all occasions. and Samson Munn, the parents of Saul in the Twos program. The information presented led to a lively Rosalie Schweit question and answer session. It was 527-9001 a wonderful event for our community. Elaine Golemb On behalf of our entire Nursery 539-8084 School staff, we wish you all a happy, healthy and peaceful New Year.

January 2007 • Congregation Beth Ami Shofar • page 9 GENEROUS CONTRIBUTIONS TO OUR CONGREGATION The next time you are looking for a meaningful way to celebrate a joyous occa- sion, remember a loved one, or comfort a mourner, please consider a donation to Congregation Beth Ami. When you make a gift, a card is send to the honoree or the family and your donation is proudly acknowledged in the Shofar. The minimum donation for each occasion is $7.50. Congregation Beth Ami truly appreciates your support.

General Fund In honor of Sheyna Bakman’s 90th birthday Library Fund In memory of Leonard Dresser, my In honor of Rabbi Schlesinger & Paula - to A thoughtful donation beloved husband joyful vacations! Book Discussion Group Helen Dresser Elsie Rich In memory of Rose Schneider In honor of Mr. & Mrs. Lester Schweit’s In memory of my uncle, Kobrinetz Leo & Evelyn Gurevitch anniversary For my In honor of Yona & Eli Miller on the In honor of Vivian Frye, thinking of you Shirley Rosaler occasion of the birth of their grandaughter and wishing you good health A generous donation In memory of George D. Kaplan, beloved In memory of Dean Fleming Robin Rose father-in-law, father, & grandfather In memory of Ruth Schwartz Susnow, In memory of my husband, Leonard Rosen Rhonda, Mike & Dan Rosenbach mother of Nancy Blossom Rosen In memory of Kim Ellis Andy & Nancy Fleming For the mi sheberach for our dear uncle, Pat Sherman Allison In memory of Isadore Wiesenthal, my Kuba Rosenbach father. For the mi sheberach for our dear brother- Malk Fund Natalie Friedman in-law, Eddie Phillippsborn In honor of Mr. & Mrs. Everett Shapiro’s In honor of Andrea Nett & Francie In honor of Lynn Weiss Marshall, the anniversary Rogovin angel who guided Eddie Phillippsborn to Helen Dresser Karla Gitlin CINJ. In memory of my mother, Malk In memory of Florence Goodman Rhonda & John Rosenbach Phyllis Shapiro Andrea Goodman In memory of Pearl Morrison A thoughtful donation Rosalie & Les Schweit Nursery School Fund In memory of Jacob Goldman, Ethel’s father William & Karen Gourdin In honor of the 65th anniversary of In memory of Leonard Klein, my brother Stuart & Ethel Schy In honor of Tish Levee’s generous spirit Lou & Evey Abramowitz Lillian Judd Deanna, Joel & Max Abramowitz In memory of my father, Hyman Katsman and wishing her good health Wishing Paul Lazovick a speedy recovery Zoia Kats Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund Thanks for all of the kindness of Rabbi Ed & Nancy Sherman Schlesinger and your synagogue In memory of Stanley Skillcorn, In appreciation for Rabbi Schlesinger’s Moe & Jacqueline Lewis father of Patie Wegman support during the Field tragedy In honor of Lou & Evey Abramovitz’s 65th In memory of Mayer Wegman, Rabbi Gittleman anniversary father of Jack Wegman In memory of my son, Irv, and in Hella Margolin In loving memory of Jonathan Field appreciation of those who helped to In memory of Esther Mazner The Wegman Family make the Ruth & Martin Mazner Thank you Rabbi Schlesinger and the Lilian Judd In memory of Stanford Menachof, congregants for saying mi sheberach for In memory of Howard Blau, brother of Louis my wife Dee Trichter father of Shari Kafton Dr. Louis & Sandra Menachof Julie Trichter Shari & Alan Kafton In honor of Patty Bernstein & her In memory of my uncle Shupsel Glazer In honor of Rabbi Schlesinger - my teacher! leadership and commitment to Beth Ami Tyutinman Marilyn Salsman Stockfleth Carolyn Metz A generous donation In memory of my beloved husband, In Honor of Sheyna Bakman’s birthday - Darrell Watkins Max Sucher Happy Birthday! Love, Sofya Sylvia Sucher Sofya Pekker Kehillah Scholarship In memory of Samson Hochfield In memory of Minnie Friedman In memory of Jonathan Field Malvina Tsipan Bernice & Sydney Perlman The Ballo Family In loving memory of Jo Epstein In honor of Ross Jones’ dedication to the Jan Urzdik synagogue Scott Postel Religious School Fund In memory of Ron Friedman Jeanne Crump

January 2007 • Congregation Beth Ami Shofar • page 10 JANUARY YAHRZEITS Secular dates correspond to Hebrew date of death Observance of yahrzeit begins at sundown the previous day All yahrzeits observed at Beth Ami

Announced on January 5 & 6 January 20 Hilda Lawrence January 7 Robert Maurice Deal Sister of Abe Bakst Birthdays Brother of Barbara Whitaker January 20 Gisela Strauss Mother of Vivian Frye January 7 Jack Shiffman 1 David Rubin Father of Bernice Fox 1 Judith Wallcave Announced on January 19 & 20 January 8 Bea Kaplan 2 Abe Gerstein Mother of Helen Margolese January 21 Ethel Levine 2 Sarah Tyutinman Grandmother of Michelle Zygielbaum Mother of Ruth Mazner 3 Marge Ballo January 9 Shifra Kantor January 23 Charles Feingold 5 Jack Wegman Daughter of Brooke & Carolyn Kantor Father of Stanley Feingold 8 Art Bornstein January 9 Raymond Lachman January 23 Frances Harvey 9 Tish Levee Brother of Vivian Salmon Aunt of Ross Jones 11 Judith Huff January 10 Mordachai Ben Hershel January 23 Estelle Mann 11 Julie Kellogg Brother of Evelyn Gurevitch Mother of Anne Mann 13 Marilyn Wolf January 10 Munja Pipkin January 23 Henry S. Rich 16 Emma Schlesinger Mother of Sheyna Bakman Husband of Elsie Rich 16 Ricki Streitfeld January 11 Olive Conklin Boyer January 24 Paula Rubin 17 Paula Schlesinger Mother of Ruth Rosenberg Niece of David Rubin 18 Seymour Boorstein January 11 Gail Warner Kreger Cousin of Elizabeth Stalker 20 Celia Berman Sister-in-Law of Jonathan & Valerie January 24 Max Shiffman 20 Ellen Perry Kreger Brother of Elsie Rich 21 Michelle Guttenberg January 11 Julius Sterman January 25 Elizabeth Carlson 22 Jeffrey Dranow Father of Milton Sterman Daughter of Sylvia Sucher 22 Arthur Margolese January 25 David Myerfeld 24 Anne Mann

Announced on January 12 & 13 Grandfather of Patty Bernstein 27 Ron Welch January 14 Herman Erian January 26 Erna Biberstein 28 William Friedman Father of Judith Wallcave Mother of Susanne Batzdorff 28 Zach Baurer January 15 Edith Volkmann January 26 Henry Mazur 28 Bob Raful Sister of Evelyn Gurevitch Father of Martha Lane 31 Rosalind Herritt January 16 Henry Rosenblatt January 27 Philip Bayuk 31 Stephen Nett Brother of Miriam Rubinstein January 27 Eli Brisgel January 16 Desider Racz Father of Celia Berman January 16 Beatrice Schwartz January 17 Mary Lasttofka Announced on January 26 & 27 ANNIVERSARIES Sister of Susy Raful January 28 George Waldman A January 17 Ruth Levy Grandfather of Barbara Whitaker Mother of Janice Sternfeld January 29 Simon Kovar 2 & Laura Alexander January 17 Leslie Molaczyk Grandfather of Dr. Gary Herzberg 3 Bruce & Ivy Edelstein January 18 Joe Leavy January 29 Tillie Schuffman Sher 3 Ira & Marlene Lowenthal Brother-in-Law of Evey Abramowitz Mother of Norma O’Brien 6 Rael & Debbie Bernstein January 18 Elaine Robinson January 29 Abraham Vizgart 7 Mort & Ruth Weiss Mother of Myrna Morse January 30 Elsa Sarah Lerner 18 Mark & Jacqueline Sutter January 19 Ruth Baruch Daughter of Greta Winter 21 Arthur & Helen Margolese Mother of Esther Baruch January 30 Nomi Lev-Yahm 23 Daniel & Tracy Harris January 19 Sylvia Bernstein Mother of Vivian Klein Aunt of Marc Bernstein January 30 Ira Hayes Rosenberg January 19 Emile Eggers Father of Ira Rosenberg January 31 Murray Davis January 2007 • Congregation Beth Ami Shofar • page 11 Jewish Community Events THE JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER, SONOMA COUNTY PRESENTS

JCC FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE LUNCHEONS AT BETH AMI Monday, January 8, 12 p.m. Gloria Young, Executive Director of United Against Sexual Assault (UASA) will be presenting a workshop on “Violent Crimes Against the Elderly.” Topics to be covered include: fears and realities of crime and elder 2007 CONCERT SEASON abuse, services available to those who may be victims, 4676 Mayette Avenue Santa Rosa, California personal safety at home, in a car, and in general, including SUNDAYS AT 2:00 P.M. a special focus on sexual assault prevention. +BOVBSZ Rabbi Michael Robinson Memorial Concert Monday, January 22, noon String Circle • Joe Edelberg, Director Sy Berkowitz will present exciting plans for the new CHAMBER MUSIC Santa Rosa Parks and Recreation $10 million Senior 'FCSVBSZ Wing proposed for Finley Park in Santa Rosa. String Circle • Joe Edelberg, Director CHAMBER MUSIC The fee for these luncheons is $8.00 for members of Friendship Circle $10 for non-members.This includes 'FCSVBSZ Ernie Shelton and the Dektette lunch and dessert. Payment is accepted at the door. BIG BAND SOUNDS Congregation Beth Ami is located at 4676 Mayette Ave, Santa Rosa. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call .BSDI Barbara Scharf , 528-1182 at the JCC office. The Orient Express • Doug Morton, Director GYPSY, BALKAN, EASTERN FOLK MUSIC & AUTHENTIC FOLK DANCERS Tzaddikim 2nd Annual Bingo Night .BZ Saturday, January 27 String Circle • Joe Edelberg, Director Fun for all ages CHAMBER MUSIC 5:30 dinner, $3 per person Bingo, Bake Sale & Silent Auction .BZ $5 per card, $12 for 3 cards, $20 for 5 cards John Parr and Adler Fellows of the San Francisco Opera ARIAS Kids 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult Barbara Rosenthal, 838-8853 .BZ All proceeds go toward programming and The Red Hot Chachkas scholarships to support Tzaddikim. KLEZMER Season Tickets are $60 each for five concerts of your choice. Community Yom Hashoah Commemoration 2007 Single tickets are $15 each at the door. April 15, 2007, 2 p.m., Friedman Events Center TICKET INFORMATION: 707-528-4222 Financial aid from the The Bureau of Jewish New opportunities for volunteers at JFCS Education is available for college study, teen trips to JFCS RIDES Program Israel, Jewish residential camps, and family specialty This program is designed to help seniors go to medical appointments camp weekends. For more information contact 415/751- and Jewish community activities. Rides are available Tuesdays and 6983 ext. 107 or go to www.bjesf.org. Wednesdays in Oakmont, Santa Rosa, Windsor and Rohnert Park. Thursdays in Petaluma, and Mondays for Friendship Circle luncheons. Rides are $5 per destination ($10 round trip). There is a $30 annual JEWISH COMMUNITY CONTACTS enrollment fee that includes an in-home interview. For more information Hadassah, ROSE ANN PREMI 537-9208 call Angela Hoey or Paula Shatkin at 571-8533. Hillel, DAVID RUBINSTEIN 795-5464 Jewish Community Federation 568-6207 Senior companions plus EVA SELIGMAN-KENNARD The JFCS Senior Companion program is expanding services to seniors JNF-Trees in Israel, SHEVI POSMAN 535-8805 with significant mental health challenges. We offer excellent training, Jewish Community Free Clinic, JOHN SHEARER 792-1932 supervision and support. Volunteer commitment of two hours weekly. Jewish Community Info & Referral 1-877/777-5247 Financial mentoring JUDY MUSANTE JFCS is now offering a Financial Mentoring Program to young adults Jewish Family & Children’s Services 571-8131 between the ages of 18 and 24. You will meet with your mentee two DIANA KLEIN hours a week and help them learn how to take financial control of their Jewish Community Center 528-4222 lives. DANIEL Y. HARRIS, M. DIV. For more information on the volunteer positions above contact BARBARA SCHARF, FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE 528-1182 Andrea Nett, Volunteer Coordinator at 303-1502 or [email protected]. January 2007 • Congregation Beth Ami Shofar • page 12 ADVANCED ORTHODONTICS FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS

Rael Bernstein, D.D.S., M.S. INC.

(707) 575-0600 (707) 836-8360 515 FARMERS LANE 8908 LAKEWOOD DR. SANTA ROSA, CA 95405 WINDSOR, CA 95405 FAX (707) 575-5375 www.bernsteinorthodontics.com

Serving Sonoma County since 1875 Family Owned and Operated Honoring all Jewish Traditions Orthodox Caskets and Supplies – Tahara Service Facilities Traditional and Memorial Services – Shipping Services to & from our area – Pre-Planning/Pre-Funding Plans Available

Telephone: 525-3730 Fax: 525-3735

The Daniels Family: William, Patricia, Wesley, Carol & Aimee and staff are available for arrangements seven days a week. 1225 Sonoma Avenue, Santa Rosa CA Lic.: FD-209 CA Lic.: CR-92

January 2007 • Congregation Beth Ami Shofar • page 13 NORTH BAY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH, INC. JOHN LEIPSIC, MD & ASSOCIATES THE POWER OF INTEGRATED TREATMENT FOR KIDS, TEENS AND FAMILIES

Psychiatric evaluation, medication management and psychological testing

Psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults

Experienced and competent clinicians

Intake Information – 542-8979 1421 Guerneville Road, Suite 114 Santa Rosa, CA 95403 www.nbbhealth.com

Earnings Devoted to Philanthropy

SINAI MEMORIAL CHAPEL

1501 Divisadero Street 3415 Mt. Diablo Blvd. San Francisco, CA 94115 Lafayette, CA 94549 (415) 921-3636 (925) 962-3636 FD 262 www.sinaichapel.org FD 1523

pre-need funeral arrangements available Gene B. Kaufman, Executive Director

Santa Rosa Mortuary Eggen & Lance Chapel 1540 Mendocino Avenue, Santa Rosa ~ 545-3747

Honoring your traditions with orthodox caskets, burial containers and Tahara Services. Santa Rosa Memorial Park Concerned about the cost of funeral services? 1900 Franklin Avenue, Santa Rosa Don’t be. Pre-need planning lets you control costs by Every life is worth loving and remembering ~ always… protecting today’s prices. Compare and save. Dedicated lawns and services for Beth Ami families. Ask us how to secure the price of cemetery property with pre-need planning. Call today ~ 542-1580 COA 107 CR 171 FD 240 & 1779 January 2007 • Congregation Beth Ami Shofar • page 14 CONGREGATION BETH AMI RSVP FORM 1. Check the boxes next to the events/classes you are interested in attending. 2. Mail/Bring this form with payment to Beth Ami, 4676 Mayette Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95405 Name:______Phone:______6:00 p.m. Dinner 7:30 p.m. Family Shabbat Services 8:30 p.m. Oneg, Live music by Zim Zum & folk dancing

† Shabbat Dinner Friday, January 5, 2007 † Shabbat Dinner Friday, February 2, 2007

Purim Banquet, Saturday, March 3 (look for more details next month) Community Seder, Tuesday, April 3, 2007 (look for more details next month)

† Shabbat Dinner, Friday, April 6, 2007 † Shabbat Dinner, Friday, May 4, 2007 † Shabbat Dinner, Friday, June 1, 2007

Adult dinners @ $12 each = ______Youth (6-12) dinners @ $7 each= ______Support a young family who could not otherwise attend. Donation: ______Amount enclosed for this event ______RVSP BY 5 p.m. on Tuesday the week of the dinner to avoid late fee!

CONGREGATION BETH AMI JUDAICA GIFT SHOP

Your Beth Ami Gift Shop Family Thanks You for Your Wonderful Chanukah Support

Gift Shop Hours Tuesday/Thursday, 3-5 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (when Religious School is in session)

January 2007 • Congregation Beth Ami Shofar • page 15 DATED INFORMATION. Non-Profit Org. PLEASE DO NOT U.S. Postage DELAY DELIVERY. PAID Permit No. 185 Santa Rosa, CA

Shofar Mailing If you’d like to receive your Shofar via 1st class mail please call the office and we’ll set it up for you. The charge is $10 per year.

GET DOWN WITH MOTOWN The Motown Megillah Reading and Purim Banquet on Saturday, March 3, is going to be a fundraiser for our Religious School. Our first meeting will be Sunday, January 7 at 11 a.m. The planning committee is looking for members from the Religious School and beyond! We need help with decorating the Friedman Center, selling tickets, set-up, clean-up and children’s activities. Please contact Val Kreger at 894-2433 or [email protected] if you’d like to attend the meeting or get involved in any other way. Thanks for your participation.

January Schedule of Services Friday Evening, January 19 (Candle Lighting: 5:00 p.m.) Friday Evening, January 5 7:30 p.m. Shabbat Evening Services (Candle Lighting: 4:46 p.m.) 6:00 p.m. Family Shabbat Dinner Saturday, January 20 * 1 Shevat 7:30 p.m. Shabbat Evening Services 9:30 a.m. Shabbat Vaera Services 10:00 a.m... Tot Shabbat Saturday, January 6 * 16 Tevet Potluck lunch following services 9:30 a.m. Shabbat Vayechi Services (Saturday : 6:02 p.m.) Luncheon hosted by Dave Rubin in honor of his birthday Friday Evening, January 26 (Saturday Havdalah: 5:48 p.m.) (Candle Lighting: 5:08 p.m.) 7:30 p.m. Erev Shabbat Services Friday Evening, January 12 (Candle Lighting: 4:53 p.m.) Saturday, January 27 * 8 Shevat 7:30 p.m. Shabbat Evening Services 9:30 a.m. Shabbat Services Potluck lunch following services Saturday, January 13 * 23 Tevet (Saturday Havdalah: 6:09 p.m.) 9:30 a.m. Shabbat Shmot Services WEEKDAY MINYAN Potluck lunch following services Sundays, 8:30 a.m., Mondays & Thursdays, 7:30 a.m. (Saturday Havdalah: 5:55 p.m.)