August 2014 - Temple Isaiah

August2011
2014
December
Av
/
Elul
5774
Kislev / Tevet 5772
Love for the Project We Call Israel
I fervently hope and pray that by the time you read these lines a
ceasefire will have taken place in Israel, rockets will have stopped
flying and sirens will have stopped blaring. The past few weeks
have been hard on us on account of our dead and wounded, hard
on us for what Israel needs to do to defend itself, and hard on us
for how Israel is portrayed in the media. It also has been hard on
us for bringing us to the realization that the status quo is neither
a comfortable nor an acceptable solution, that a resolution of the
conflict is necessary, and that a ceasefire is just that: a temporary
lull in the fighting while hate and rearmament continue to grow
among our young and our enemy’s young.
During these difficult days I have sensed again the distance
between “the Jew in the pew” and her or his people, the fragility of
the bond that connects every one of us with the State of Israel and
with our brothers and sisters there.
When we read about Israel in the press we find it on the pages
that deal with international news. But for us as Jews, news about
Israel is always “local.” It is about our brothers and sisters, our cousins and grandchildren. It is close to our heart and to the heart of
what it means to be Jewish, to be committed to peoplehood.
Out of crisis can come some good. Perhaps this time it will be
a new awakening to the fact that we are not just another religion,
but members of a people with a profound stake in the welfare of the nation
that represents for us “the beginning of
redemption.” This doesn’t mean that we
can’t be critical at times, or that we have
to be a silent majority. We can have as
many opinions about what goes on in
our ancestral land as those who inhabit
it have among themselves. But we have
to be solid in our love for the project
before we can be critical. To have an
opinion that is not born out of love is to
join the chorus of those who may wish
the Jewish State in our time to go away.
There is not much we can do from
here other than give our material help
and express our solidarity. As a friend in
the Jewish Agency said, “Pray that this
is all over soon and the familiar images
stop. Be united in the force for goodness
and redeem your little part of the world
because you can.”
Rabbi Roberto Graetz
Rabbi Roberto
Graetz
...we are not
just another
religion, but
members of a
people with a
profound stake
in the welfare
of the nation
that represents
for us “the
beginning of
redemption.”
Temple Isaiah kids at Camp Newman, where Ahavat Israel (love for Israel) is a guiding principle.
TEMPLE ISAIAH
945 Risa Road, Lafayette, CA 94549
Temple Isaiah’s mission is to embody, enhance, and
perpetuate our Jewish tradition by providing a
welcoming spiritual home where the membership
gathers to worship God, study Torah, engage in acts of
Tikun Olam, participate in Jewish rituals and life cycle
events, and experience the joy of being a part of a
caring community.
David Douglas
Dan Myers
Tony Crea
Jasmine Tarkoff
Karen Goldberg
Steve Lipson
Parliamentarian
Robert Goldberg
Phone Ext
Rabbi
Roberto Graetz 308
Rabbi
Judy Shanks 308
Associate Rabbi
Alissa Miller 308
Rabbi Emeritus Shelley Waldenberg 308
Cantor
Leigh Korn 308
Executive Director Michael Liepman 301
Education Director
Rabbi Nicki Greninger 313
Gan Ilan Director
Liz Kaufman 108
Youth Director
Jory Gwasdoff 311
Membership
Abby Seitelman 306
Facilities Rental Michaela Caughlan 303
Librarian
Melissa Gianotti 316
Clergy Secretary
Nina Jones 308
Education Asst.
Nathan Bellet 315
Communications Dir. Jen Boxerman 310
Hebrew Tutor
Joel Siegel 318
Office Staff
Sonia Das 300
Melissa Gianotti 304
Bookkeeper
Sherry Tsai 302
President
Executive Vice President
Vice President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Office 925-283-8575
Fax
925-283-8355
Religious School 925-284-9191
Gan Ilan Preschool 925-284-8453
Gift Shop
925-284-4933
Website
www.temple-isaiah.org
Ruach Vol. 63, No. 1, August 2014
Ruach is published monthly except in July by Temple
Isaiah. Ruach is breath, wind, or spirit. It also means
soul. May it be a breeze of fresh Jewish spirit arriving
at your home.
Editor
Judy Lipson
editor.ruach@temple-isaiah.org
Photographer
Michael Fox
Copy Editor
Neal Modelevsky
Production
write.on graphics
2 Temple Isaiah Ruach, August 2014
Tisha B’Av Service
Please join us on Monday, August 4 at 8 p.m.
in the Sanctuary as we observe the start of
Tisha B’Av, a day of fasting and mourning in
remembrance of the destruction of the First
and Second Temples in Jerusalem.The Jewish
historical imagination has piled tragedy after
tragedy onto this date, from the beginning
of the Crusades to the mass deportation of
Jews from the Warsaw Ghetto during the
Shoah. On this evening we will hear the sad
melody of the Book of Lamentations and
study its message and that of the prophet
Jeremiah, and we will reflect on the words
of our sages as they sought to find reason in
so much suffering.
At a time when we mourn the loss of life
by violent means around the world and in
the center of our existence, the State of Israel
reborn, we will connect the old with the
new as we strive to find sources of hope.
High Holy Days Prep
On Thursday, September 4, 11 and 18
at 7 p.m. Rabbi Graetz and Rabbi Greninger
will lead classes designed to help prepare
the heart, mind and soul for the High Holy
Days. Watch your email for course details
and location.
Neighborhood Havdalah:
Just Around the Corner
Plan on joining your Temple Isaiah neighbors
on Saturday, September 13, at 5:30 p.m.
for dinner, conversation and Havdalah at a
home near you. This popular annual event
is a wonderful way to connect with other
Temple Isaiah members. Everyone is
welcome, and childcare is provided. Be sure
to watch for your email invitation.
Want to help? Co-chairs Joani deVries,
Robin Bach and Carrie Paulus hope to bring
Neighborhood Havdalah to as many
locations as possible and are looking for
volunteers to serve as hosts and coordinators. If you would like to host a group at
your house or help coordinate the event at
a neighbor’s house, please contact Joani at
joanidv@att.net or 925-216-4324.
High Holy Days Passes
High Holy Days passes are included in your
Temple membership renewal. Renew your
membership commitment by August 25, and
we will mail your High Holy Days passes and
information to you the first week in September.
If you have not yet renewed your membership commitment, you can renew online at
www.temple-isaiah.org/commitment.
If you are a member in good standing and have not received the packet by
September 18, please call the Temple office
at 925-283-8575. To see the full High Holy
Days schedule, to purchase additional passes
or to make a special seating request, visit
www.temple-isaiah.org/highholydays.
Cell Antenna Update
The east-facing cell antennas on our campus
are now live. Before and after the antennas
were turned on, our consulting engineers,
Hammett & Edison, Inc., took radio frequency
measurements at 28 locations representing
the exposure conditions in different areas of
the site and compared them with the applicable
federal standards. They reported that “every
reading at every point was less than 1% of the
limit, that is, more than 100 times below.” The
full report, including a table of all the readings,
a map of the measured locations, and a technical explanation of the federal standards, is
posted on our Cell Antenna Resource page at
www.temple-isaiah.org/cellantenna, along
with some typical questions and answers
and other information.
If you have any questions, please contact Jen Boxerman, our Communications
Director, at jenb@temple-isaiah.org or 925283-8576 x310.
We thank
outgoing
Ruach editor
and volunteer
of the year,
Julie Candau,
for her many
years of hard
work and
dedication to
our community.
Yasher koach!
for the latest information www.temple-isaiah.org
NEWS AND INSPIRATION
Leading a Great Congregation
At a recent conference in Atlanta for incoming presidents of
Reform congregations, I sat quietly as other attendees spoke of
problems at their synagogues, such as the lack of good youth
programming, clergy who do not work as a team with lay leaders,
balloon mortgage payments coming due, and declining membership. Representing Temple Isaiah, I had nothing to complain
about. None of these items, or others that keep presidents up
at night, are issues at our synagogue. On the contrary, when I
spoke about Temple Isaiah others looked on with admiration
(and probably a bit of envy). I am leading a growing congregation that is financially sound and enjoys a superb relationship
between clergy and lay leadership. I thank my predecessors for
this and consider myself fortunate to be able to represent such a
wonderful community.
Speaking of wonderful, I came away from our annual board
retreat in June feeling truly blessed to have such an enthusiastic,
energetic and warm group of people serving with me on the
Temple board. This group will certainly keep me on my toes –
and will make me look good in the process. Expect great things
from this board in the months and years ahead.
A lot of people ask me, “What will be your big initiative as
president?” After hearing this a few times
I began to think I had to introduce something big. In reality, though, something big
is not needed. Temple Isaiah is in great
shape. During my term I simply want
to expand on the good things we are
doing and continue with the wonderful
programming, inspirational worship, and
community-building that are the foundation of our temple.
In keeping with this goal, we are making a few changes to our committee
David Douglas
structure, including one in particular that
I am excited about: the addition of a new
Membership and Engagement Committee. Headed by enthusiastic board members Julie Bell and Dave Bressler, this group will
endeavor to get everyone at Temple Isaiah engaged in something,
with the ultimate aim of building even closer relationships and
lifelong ties to our community. I look forward to sharing more
about this in the coming months.
David Douglas, President
Temple Isaiah’s officers and board members are a diverse group
who volunteer their time and talents to lead our congregation. The
board is the decision-making body of the Temple and is authorized
to develop and implement the Temple’s vision and transact business
on its behalf. For a complete list of the officers and board members
plus some Frequently Asked Questions about Temple governance,
visit www.temple-isaiah.org/about-us/lay-leadership/. Be sure to
check out the overview of the Temple committees that help guide
our many different activities and programs. If you are interested in
getting involved, please contact the committee chair or any officer
or board member.
The Fun Is Free at Ganeinu
Temple Isaiah’s facilitated playgroup for babies and toddlers
is now free of charge. Enjoy a Jewish environment as you play,
learn, and celebrate Shabbat and holidays with your child. It’s
a wonderful opportunity to connect with other parents and
create lasting friendships. Ganeinu is open to little ones from
birth to 30 months and their parents or caregivers. (We love
grandparents at Ganeinu.) Non-Temple members are welcome,
too. Drop-in sessions meet Friday mornings from 9:15 to 10:45
a.m. in the Adult Lounge inside the Temple House building.
New sessions begin September 5. For more information and
a schedule of sessions visit www.temple-isaiah.org/ganeinu or
contact ganeinu@temple-isaiah.org.
www.temple-isaiah.org for the latest information
photo by David Douglas
The Way Things Work
Julie Bell, Vivian Poettgen, Sue Adler-Bressler, Dave Bressler,
Karen Goldberg, Peter Bluford, Abby Seitelman, and Michael
Liepman at the first meeting of our new Membership and
Engagement Committee.
How Do You Jew?
Watch the first two installments of our new video series
starring Temple Isaiah’s clergy. Learn how to put up a
mezuzah and do an Aliyah to the Torah. Stay tuned for more.
www.youtube.com/TIJewishNeighborhood
Temple Isaiah Ruach, August 2014 3
COMMUNITY
Mazal Tov
■ To Chere and Paul Elsinga on the birth of their granddaughter, Sylvia Sage Hall, to Elysia Elsinga and Edward
Hall, on May 16, 2014.
■ To Arlene Jacobs on the birth of her grandson, Ellis
Rockford Flores, to Jennifer Jacobs and Hector Flores,
on May 18, 2014.
■ To Marina Birman and Michael Fox on the birth
of their grandson, Justin Fox Berko, to Laura Fox and
Jeffrey Berko, on May 27, 2014.
DISCOVER
THE
DIFFERENCE
AT
CCJDS
CONTRA COSTA
JEWISH DAY SCHOOL
Small Class Sizes
State-of-the Art Science Lab
Drama/Music/Art/Sports
Hebrew/Judaics
Financial Assistance
■ To Kim and Stuart Weinstein on the birth of their
granddaughter, Brooke Elise Bailey, to Lynn and Tim
Bailey, on June 11, 2014.
■ To Mala Subramanian and Ben Winig on the birth of
their son, Ravi Shai Winig, on June 22, 2014. Proud grandparents are Mary Anne and Hugh Winig.
■ To Cynthia Frankel and William Haber on the birth
of their granddaughter, Laurel Skye Hern, to Ashlie Hern
and John Cone on June 27, 2014.
■ To Melissa and Dustin Gianotti on the birth of their
son, Shane Lucas Gianotti, on June 29, 2014.
CAIS and WASC accreditations
Lafayette, CA 925-284-8288 www.ccjds.org
CCJDS is a beneficiary of the Koret Foundation, Jim Joseph Foundation,
and the Jewish Federation of the East Bay.
Welcome New Members
May 15 – July 12, 2014
This space
left intentionally
Blank
4 Temple Isaiah Ruach, August 2014
for the latest information www.temple-isaiah.org
COMMUNITY
Angel Network News
For over six years, everybody’s favorite angel, Jan Trzesniewski,
has led the group of dedicated volunteers who help make
Temple Isaiah a true caring community. With characteristic grace
and wisdom Jan recently turned over the leadership of Angel
Network to two experienced and tireless workers, Jill Jacobson
and Ruth Willen. As the new co-chairs of Angel Network, Jill and
Ruth pledge to do their best to continue reaching out to those in
need. To do so, they need your help, and they encourage everyone to become part of Angel Network, helping with a card, a
meal, a ride, or a visit, whether once a year or more frequently. As
Jill and Ruth put it,“[w]e have seen firsthand the difference Angel
Network makes; we’ve accepted the sincere thank you when a
card was received, a shivah attended, a baby gift delivered, and
a hand held…no deed is too small.” For more information and
to sign up to volunteer, contact Jill at jj.angelnet@gmail.com or
Ruth at rw.angelnet@gmail.com. If you need the support of Angel
Network or know of a Temple member who does, please call
Nina Jones, Clergy Assistant, at 925-283-8575.
Calling All Bridge Players
A chorus of angels thanks Jan Trzesniewski for her years of
leading Angel Network and welcomes new co-chairs Ruth
Willen and Jill Jacobson.
Grief Support Group Back in Fall
Our Grief Support Group for those in the local Jewish community who have lost a loved one will start up again in September.
The group offers a safe, supportive, and confidential place to
share your loss and grieve with others who understand what
you are experiencing. We will meet for eight sessions, twice a
month on Tuesday evening. After a mid-winter break, the group
will resume in January, when new members can join. There is
no charge to participate, but you must register in advance. No
drop-ins are allowed. For more information and to sign up, please
contact griefgroup@temple-isaiah.org or call the Temple office at
925-283-8575. The group facilitator will return your call, confirm
availability, and answer any questions you may have.
www.temple-isaiah.org for the latest information
It’s time to sign up to play in Women of Isaiah’s Bridge Marathon.
We are actively seeking new players to join our friendly group.
The games are fun, relaxed, and a terrific way to get together with
old friends and make new ones, too. Partners may be any two
bridge players, at least one of whom belongs to Women of Isaiah.
We play once a month from fall through May in each other’s
homes on mutually convenient dates. A gala dinner and roundrobin game takes place at Temple Isaiah in June with prizes
awarded to the winners. The cost to participate is $40 per person. The fee covers operating costs (supplies, party and prizes)
and a donation to Women of Isaiah. For more information and to
sign up, contact Andrea Green at 925-376-7087or Joyce Ellenberg
at 925-376-6743 by September 20.
Temple Isaiah Ruach, August 2014 5
COMMUNITY
Yizkor Elohim
May 23, 2014
Adrienne
Segol,
mother
of
Richard
(Wendy)
Segol,
■
grandmother of Lillian, Nathaniel, Ruthe, and Samantha.
May 27, 2014
■ Sally Rubinstein, wife of Michael Rubinstein, mother
of Cara (Timothy) Hoxie and Dan (Abigail) Rubinstein,
grandmother of Phillip, Benjamin and Theodore Hoxie
and Alexandra and Olivia Rubinstein.
May 29, 2014
■ Miriam Menzin, mother of Jane Sondel, grandmother of
Eric and Aliya.
May 29, 2014
■ Leonard Morgenstern, past president of Temple Isaiah
and a former editor of the Ruach.
Welcome to The Reutlinger, a nonprofit senior living
community that is proud to offer a true continuum of care,
allowing you to age in place.
2014 Respite Special!!!
June 2, 2014
Irving
G.
Peiser,
father
of
Michael
(J.
Virginia)
Peiser,
■
grandfather of Jason and Erica.
One month FREE when you make The Reutlinger home.
Do not miss out on this fantastic offer!
June 8, 2014
■ Fred Weinzimmer, father of Steven (Karen Maas)
Weinzimmer, grandfather of Elissa, Lauren and David.
Call Elizabeth TODAY, for details and to schedule a tour
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June 10, 2014
■ Mark Torban, father of Regina (Simon) Yanovsky, grandfather of Vlad and Faina.
The Reutlinger provides all services regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, disability, gender or sexual orientation.
License number 075600335
June 14, 2014
■ Bella Krawetz, mother of David Krawetz.
June 25, 2014
Melvin
Littman,
grandfather
of
Rabbi
Alissa
(Dan) Miller,
■
great-grandfather of Leo.
June 30, 2014
■ Madeleine Bertram Carmel, mother of Richard
(Marjorie) Carmel, grandmother of Erica and Bryan
Carmel.
June 30, 2014
■ Michael Ludmer, father of Paul (Robin) Ludmer, grandfather of Evan and Mara.
July 1, 2014
■ Lily Silverman, grandmother of Alan (Jill) Jacobson,
great-grandmother of Corey, Matthew, and Danielle.
July 9, 2014
Herb
Berkowitz,
brother
of
Helene
Weber,
uncle of
■
Roberta, Sue, and Margo.
July 12, 2014
■ Bernard Siegel, father of Joel Siegel, Temple Isaiah’s
Song Leader and B’nai Mitzvah Tutor.
6 Temple Isaiah Ruach, August 2014
for the latest information www.temple-isaiah.org
COMMUNITY – ANSHEI ISAIAH
Spotlight on Anshei Isaiah
There was a surprise in store for everyone who attended Anshei
Isaiah’s annual Kick Off Dinner on May 19, which featured
Comcast SportsNet reporter and anchor Kate Longworth and
“All A’s” producer Justin Bercovich.Their cameraman, Rob Lembo,
came along, too, and filmed a segment about the dinner which
was broadcast that night on SportsNet Central. So Anshei Isaiah had
its fifteen minutes of fame. Okay, it was more like thirty seconds of
fame; nonetheless it was very cool to see our event on Bay Area
television.
At the dinner we also announced the results of our election
of officers and directors. Serving as vice presidents this year are
Roger Lamm, Administration; Paul Nelson, Membership; Yariv
Robinson, Budget and Finance; Bob Coleman, Programming;
and Neal Modelevsky, Communications. We welcome two new
directors, Roy Kaplan and Rich London, to the board; they join
returning directors Alan Gennis, Nadav Rave and Dave Solomon.
Seth Moldoff is our immediate past president, and we are also fortunate to have two other past presidents, Michael Swernoff and
Alan Jacobson, attend our meetings and lend their experience
and historical perspective to our organization.
Thanks to Programming VP Bob Coleman and friends we have
some great events on our calendar. Following our successful
www.temple-isaiah.org for the latest information
event at Jewish Heritage Night at AT&T
Park on July 28 (all 90 tickets sold), we are
excited to offer an Evening at Yoshi’s in
Oakland on Saturday, August 16, with a
performance by legendary Jazz vibraphonist
Bobby Hutcherson. Anshei Isaiah members
(plus spouses and significant others) are
invited to join us for dinner and the show,
or just for the show. Register online at www.
temple-isaiah.org/eveningatyoshis.
Stay tuned for other popular Anshei
Isaiah events: our annual Sukkah-building,
potluck dinner and Sukkah tear-down in
October; game night at Dave Solomon’s
house in November; Moo Shu and a Movie
on the last night of Chanukah, December
24. Looking ahead to 2015, Trivia Night is
January 10; and the men’s retreat in Mill
Valley is March 27-29.
If you are not yet a member of Anshei Isaiah,
please join us.You can learn more about us at
www.temple-isaiah.org/anshei-isaiah.
Joel Willen, Anshei Isaiah President
Joel Willen
Temple Isaiah Ruach, August 2014 7
EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
August 2014
Sunday
Av / Elul 5774
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
1
Friday
2
Saturday
8:45 a.m. Torah Study
10:30 a.m. Shabbat
Service (Bat Mitzvah:
Kiara Kunnes)
6:30 p.m. Shabbat
Service followed by
Sha-Bar-B-Q
3
4
5
6
7
8
9:15 a.m. Torah Study
9:30 a.m. Tot Shabbat
10:30 a.m. Shabbat
Service w/vegetarian
potluck
12:30 p.m. WOI Writing
Workshop
3 p.m. P’tach Libeynu
7:15 p.m. Al Anon
7 p.m. Summer Clergy
Course
8 p.m. Tisha B’Av Service
10
11
Camp Kefli
8 p.m. Shabbat Service
followed by Oneg
12
Camp Kefli
10 a.m. Neshamah Yoga
13
14
15
16
Camp Kefli
Camp Kefli
10am Neshamah Yoga
Camp Kefli
8:45 a.m. Torah Study
10:30 a.m. Shabbat
Service (Bat Mitzvah:
Melissa Pearl)
6 p.m. Happy Half Hour
Oneg
6:30 p.m. Shabbat
Service
7 p.m. WOI Board Meeting 7 p.m. ECE Meeting
7:15 p.m. Al Anon
17
19
20
21
22
23
Camp Kefli
Camp Kefli
10 a.m. Neshamah Yoga
Camp Kefli
Camp Kefli
Camp Kefli
9:15 a.m. Torah Study
10:30 a.m. Shabbat
Service w/vegetarian
potluck
25
12:30 p.m. WOI Writing
Workshop
5:30 p.m. Tot Shabbat
7:15 p.m. Board Meeting
7:15 p.m. Al Anon
8 p.m. Shabbat Service
followed by Oneg
26
10 a.m. WOI Board
Retreat
7 p.m. Adult Choir
Rehearsal
31
Anshei Isaiah Evening at
Yoshi’s
18
7 p.m. Anshei Isaiah
Board Meeting
7 p.m. WOI Knitting and
Handwork
24
9
27
28
29
8:15 a.m. WOI Hike
8:45 a.m. Torah Study
10:30 a.m. Shabbat
Service (Bar Mitzvah:
Ethan Fishlow)
12:30 p.m. Mah Jongg
7 p.m. P’tach Libeynu
8 Temple Isaiah Ruach, August 2014
6:30 p.m. Grief Support
Group
7:15 p.m. Al Anon
7 p.m. Adult Choir
Rehearsal
30
7 p.m. Gan Ilan Parent
Orientation
6 p.m. Happy Half Hour
Oneg
6:30 p.m. Shabbat
Service
for the latest information www.temple-isaiah.org
YOUTH AND EDUCATION
B’nai Mitzvah Revolution: An Update
Since 2012 Temple Isaiah has participated in the B’nai Mitzvah
Revolution, a project of the Hebrew Union College-Jewish
Institute of Religion and the Union for Reform Judaism that
encourages communities to “rethink b’nai mitzvah so synagogues
and their members can focus on what is most important about
Jewish living and learning.” Temple Isaiah was one of 13 congregations selected to pilot this program which now involves hundreds of synagogues throughout the country.
We started the “revolution” by asking our Temple community what we could do better or differently in b’nai mitzvah
preparation and observance. Through surveys and small group
conversations we sought the input of families whose children
had become b’nai mitzvah in the previous year and engaged our
Temple board in a discussion about balancing communal Shabbat
morning worship with the individual family’s expectations. We
learned that although much of what we already do works well,
there are always ways to improve and deepen the b’nai mitzvah
experience.
In response to ideas from our members and clergy we made
a number of changes in the Shabbat morning service, such as
how we pass the Torah from generation to generation and how
students connect with Haftarah. Students have the option of
chanting the Haftarah in Hebrew or becoming “modern-dayprophets” by describing their mitzvah project and how it reflects
Jewish values. We created a helpful guide to mitzvah projects and
now start the process of selecting projects in 6th rather than 7th
grade.
We are continuing to hold small group conversations with parents in the two or three months following their children’s b’nai
mitzvah, as a way for them to connect with each other and have a
chance to reflect on the experience.There is also a Temple Isaiah
B’nai Mitzvah Facebook group enabling
parents of children in grades 6 and 7 (and
beyond) to communicate easily with one
another and exchange information about
all aspects of the b’nai mitzvah experience.
In 2014 we implemented a new approach
to Hebrew education that has become
a model for many other congregations
around the country. We are busy evaluating how the program is working, asking all
students in grades 3-6 about their experiRabbi Nicki
ences learning Hebrew, observing children
Greninger
in grades K-6 in the classroom, holding
small group interviews with children in
grades 3-6, and talking with students when they begin b’nai mitzvah tutoring with Joel Siegel.
Where do we go from here? One important goal is to continue
our efforts to evaluate our new Hebrew program and then share
our findings with our Temple Isaiah community and other synagogues. We are also piloting a B’nai Mitzvah “Creative Worship”
option for families who choose to attend five Shabbat morning
services along with a class taught by Rabbi Ruth Adar to learn
more about the Shabbat morning liturgy. Participants will work
with our clergy to shape their own bar or bat mitzvah service,
based on what they learned in the class and by attending services.
For more information about the B’nai Mitzvah Revolution,
visit www.bnaimitzvahrevolution.org. Feel free to contact me
if you have any questions, ideas or suggestions that you would
like to share!
Rabbi Nicki Greninger, Education Director
Strike Up the Band
The Mighty KlezTones teen band is looking for young musicians
to perform at Shabbat services and at Temple and community
events. The band, which is under the direction of Cary Nasatir,
an experienced conductor and avid Klezmer fan, rehearses its
diverse repertoire twice a month on Sunday afternoons after
Religious School. Players in grades 8-12 who have at least
two years of middle school or high school band or orchestra
experience are eligible to join this exciting ensemble. There
are openings for low brass, guitar, mandolin, accordion, percussion, and saxophone (alto, tenor, and baritone); clarinets and violins are always welcome. For more information email Car y
at carynasatir@att.net with “klezmer” in the subject line or call
him at 510-612-5527.
Happy Torah Trekkers assemble at the Lafayette Reservoir to
celebrate Shavuot.
www.temple-isaiah.org for the latest information
Temple Isaiah Ruach, August 2014 9
YOU MAKE THE DIFFERENCE – SPECIAL GIFTS
Special Gifts May 1 - June 30, 2014
Angel Network Fund
In honor of:
Emily and Zach Lowhurst’s b’nai mitzvah, from
Linda and Stephen Goldschlag
Jan Trzesniewski’s work as Angel Network chair,
from Linda and Milford Waldroup
For the yahrzeit of:
Lena Bernstein, from Tina and David De Stephen
Mildred Goldberg, from Karen and Stewart Kupetz
Harold Mann, from Carol Mann
Dorothy Tornheim, from Tina and David De
Stephen
Cantor’s Music Fund
A donation from:
Michael Prilutsky
In appreciation of:
Cantor Korn, from Carol Mann and Beryl and Ivor
Silver
Helen Sokol, from Penny Kermit
Don Wayne, from Penny Kermit
In honor of:
Phyllis Ceasar’s special birthday, from Margaret
and Herbert Eder
In memory of:
Renee Denwitt, from the Solomon Family
Irving Peiser, from Michael, Virginia, Erica, and
Jason Peiser and Beryl and Ivor Silver
Sally Rubinstein, from Michael Rubinstein
Irene Solomon, from the Solomon Family
Elsie Toppel, from Debra Deitch
Fred Weinzimmer, from Sandy and Dave Anderson
and Arlene and Yale Downes
For the recovery of:
Nancy Solomon, from the Solomon Family
For the yahrzeit of:
Irving H. Assael, from Kevin Assael
Jack Goodman, from Steve Goodman
Trude Modern, from Anna Marie Levy
Pearl Redsun, from Harold and Betty Redsun
Evelyn V. Stevens, from Virginia and Michael Peiser
Cantor Ted Cotler Library Fund
In honor of:
Melissa and Dustin Gianotti on the birth of their
son, Shane Lucas Gianotti, from the Glicklin
Family
In memory of:
Albert and Sara Wallach, from JCF of Southern
Arizona
10 Temple Isaiah Ruach, August 2014
Carlene Berman Flowers Fund
In memory of:
Len Morgenstern, from Beryl and Ivor Silver
Sally Rubinstein, from Beryl and Ivor Silver
Daniel Baron Feed the Hungry Fund
In honor of:
Bobbi Baron’s special birthday, from Debra Kalan,
Sol and Jo Postyn, and Lynn Wolff
In memory of:
Irving Peiser, from Trudi and Alan Gardner
For the yahrzeit of:
Marvin Baron, from Bobbi and Michael Baron
Clara Friedman, from Frank and Deanne Winer
Roma Peterson, from Julie Magilen
Endowment Fund
In memory of:
Fred Weinzimmer, from Diane Portnoff
For the yahrzeit of:
Mimi Epstein, from Tonna Lusareta-Stevens
General Fund
In appreciation of:
Cantor Korn for helping to make Rabbi Asher’s
retirement party so wonderful, from Rabbi
Asher’s Farewell Tour Committee
Lisa Hirsch for her service and leadership, from
Steve Ellis and Ellen Bernstein-Ellis
Rabbi Shanks for teaching at Christ the King
Church, from Father Brian Joyce
In honor of:
Celia Douglas, from Richard and Gloria Marchick
David Douglas, from Nancy and Dick Bernheimer
Lee Douglas, from Richard and Gloria Marchick
Joshua Goldberg’s graduation, from Robert
Goldberg
Carl Jonas Naden, from Nadine Lush
Rosemary Wheeler’s bat mitzvah, from Andrea
Higgins
In memory of:
Joel Dobin, from Deborah Dobin and Family
Betty Issacson, from Ellen and Jay Israel
Leonard Morgenstern, from Karen Epstein and
Mary Wezelman
Lois Sherer, from Jill Student
Fred Weinzimmer, from Elaine and Herbert
Lederman
For the yahrzeit of:
Izia Blumin, from Eugenia Blumin
Matthew Robert Brunstein, from Leah RolnickBrunstein
Leo Cohen, from Doris Leiber
General Fund Cont’d
For the yahrzeit of cont’d:
Annette Day, from Shirley Nankin
Benson Ellis, from William Ellis
June Lauer, from Sheryl Lauer
Anne Lavine-Kilbourne, from George Kilbourne
Isadore Nisenbaum, from Steve and Judy Carney
Jay Norek, from Josh Norek
Leiser Pfeifer, from David L. Millstein
Lillian Pincus, from Neil and Cheryl Pincus
Miriam Snider, from Richard Snider
Ivy Blum Memorial Fund
In memory of:
Marshall Eidex, from Seymore and Marilyn Hertz
For the yahrzeit of:
Helen Hallert, from Steven Hallert and Family
Jacob M. Tarkoff Scholarship Fund
In honor of:
David Douglas’s installation as president, from
Karen and Mitchell Tarkoff
In memory of:
Sally Rubinstein, from Karen and Mitchell Tarkoff
For the yahrzeit of:
Aaron Chinn, from Judy Chinn
Miriam Simon, from Belinda Simon Harris
Prayer Book Fund
For the yahrzeit of:
Charles Lapidus, from Lisa and Richard Cohen
Project Hearth for the Homeless Fund
In honor of:
Adam’s wedding, from Donna Kaulkin
Rabbi Graetz, from Robert Goldberg
Rabbi Shanks, from Robert Goldberg
In memory of:
Carl Jonas Naden, from the Gitomer-Weiner Family
For the yahrzeit of:
Scott Baum, from Sandra and Steven Wolfe
Antionette Himmelreich, from the Rideout Family
Irving Israel, from Jay and Ellen Israel
Leonard Neham, from Sandra and Steven Wolfe
Rabbi Graetz’ Discretionary Fund
Donations from:
Michael Prilutsky
Frank Trafton
In appreciation of:
Rabbi Graetz, from Beryl and Ivor Silver
for the latest information www.temple-isaiah.org
YOU MAKE THE DIFFERENCE – SPECIAL GIFTS
Rabbi Graetz’ Discretionary Fund Cont’d
In honor of:
Al Polak’s 90th birthday, from Havurah Neshoma
Josh Douglas’s confirmation, from Beryl and Ivor
Silver
Jordan Sherman’s bar mitzvah, from Victoria and
Michael Sherman
In memory of:
Cecile Gilbert, from Bruce Kaufman
Bernard Kaplan, from Marc and Marilyn Kaplan
Bette Kaplan, from Marc and Marilyn Kaplan
Norman Levenson, from Shirley Maccabee
Irving Peiser, from Michael, Virginia, Erica, and
Jason Peiser
Sally Rubinstein, from Arlene and Yale Downes
and Michael Rubinstein
Rose Schuster, from Stewart and Bette Schuster
Fred Weinzimmer, from Zvi and Rosalie BenJoseph, Gloria Schiller, Beryl and Ivor Silver,
and Steven Weinzimmer
For the recovery of:
Roy Kaplan, from Roy Kaplan
For the yahrzeit of:
Bernard Freedman, from Rochelle Hassen
Frieda Hassen, from Joel Hassen
Irwin Hassen, from Joel Hassen
Reuven Hasson, from Shalom and Shoshana
Eliahu
Rose Hyman, from Allan and Eva Hyman
Arthur Nagel, from Charlotte Nagel and Raul
Poniachik
Cari Rodman, from Stephen Rodman
Rabbi Miller’s Discretionary Fund
In appreciation of:
Rabbi Miller for leading the Passover Seder, from
Roy Kaplan
Rabbi Miller, from Steven Weinzimmer
In honor of:
Leo Miller’s baby naming, from Susan Mautner
In memory of:
Adele Kaplan, from Roy Kaplan
Rabbi Shanks’ Discretionary Fund
In appreciation of:
Aunt Judy for the naming of Zoey Lynne Miles,
from Dawn and Jeremy Miles
Rabbi Shanks, from Kendra and Dave Fried, Carol
Mann, and Michael Rubinstein
Rabbi Shanks for her inspirational leadership,
from Deeni and Howard Schoenfeld
Rabbi Shanks for the Jewish Book Group and
Mussar and Meditation services, from Linda
Waldroup
www.temple-isaiah.org for the latest information
Rabbi Shanks’ Discretionary Fund Cont’d
In appreciation of cont’d:
Rabbi Shanks for teaching at Christ the King
Church, from Father Brian Joyce
In honor of:
The birth of Greta and Jerry Frantz’s new grandson, Ezra Abraham, from Gloria and Robert
Schiller
Amanda Howard’s college graduation, from
Howard Rose
Zina Rosen-Simon’s 60th birthday, from Andrea
Harris
Barry Simon’s 60th birthday, from Andrea Harris
Ben Tarkoff’s confirmation, from Beryl and Ivor
Silver
In memory of:
Irving Peiser, from Michael, Virginia, Erica, and
Jason Peiser
Jack Pinsler, from Lorraine Marshall
Sally Rubinstein, from Michael Rubinstein
For the recovery of:
Nancy Crevin, from Beverly Kivel and Howard Rose
Roy Kaplan, from Roy Kaplan
For the yahrzeit of:
Helen Castle, from Leonard and Irene Osias
Ida Feldman, from Rose Michaels
Sema Goldberg, from Edward Goldberg
Annette Goldman, from Stephen Goldman
Louis Lowenthal, from Terry Lowenthal
Sam Lowitz, from Robert Lowitz
Pauline Rubin, from Steve and Judi Rubin
Gussie Schoenfeld, from Deeni and Howard
Schoenfeld
Religious School & Youth Fund
In appreciation of:
The Lamms, from Penny Kermit
In honor of:
David Douglas becoming president, from Arlene
and Yale Downes
Josh Douglas’s confirmation, from Sandra and
Steven Wolfe
Josh Goldberg’s graduation, from Steven
Weinzimmer and Karen Maas
Stephen Trzesniewski’s graduation, from Steven
Weinzimmer and Karen Maas
Social Action Fund
In appreciation of:
Casey Sasner, from Robert Goldberg
Jasmine Tarkoff, from Robert Goldberg
Waldenberg-Zwerling Youth Fund
For the yahrzeit of:
Albert Lepawsky, from Lucy and Anthony Di Bianca
Women of Isaiah Fund
A donation from:
Janet Saunders
In appreciation of:
Steve and Judy Lipson’s friendship and warm
hospitality, from Tom Hazlett
In memory of:
Betty Issacson, from Sandy and Dave Anderson
For the yahrzeit of:
Ellen Singer, from Sandy and Dave Anderson
Mah Jongg Rules
Women of Isaiah’s next Mah Jongg Monday
is August 25 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. in
the Adult Lounge. All Temple members,
beginners and longtime players alike, are
welcome to drop in for a friendly game.
Bring your Mah Jongg card and set if you
have them. For the full schedule of monthly sessions visit www.temple-isaiah.org/
women-isaiah/ongoing-programs.
Mahj players won’t want to miss Project
Mah Jongg, the Contemporary Jewish
Museum’s lively new exhibit that explores
how an ancient Chinese game became
part of the fabric of Jewish American
culture from the 1930s to the present
day. The show runs through October 28
and features vintage photos, oral histories,
mah jongg sets, fashions, and collectibles
relating to the mah jongg phenomenon.
The museum is offering classes and special group tour packages for mahj lovers,
including reserved play in the gallery. See
www.thecjm.org for details.
In memory of:
Len Morgenstern, from Virginia and Michael Peiser
and Len and Robbie Cohn
For the yahrzeit of:
Louis Berg, from Judy and Marty Berg
Magna Gabor Gyongyosi, from Martin and Anna
Lackner
Elaine Kravitz, from Rick Kravitz
Temple Isaiah Ruach, August 2014 11
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. POSTAGE
Shabbat
Worship Services
Friday, August 1
6:30 p.m. Shabbat Service
followed by Sha-Bar-B-Q Dinner
Saturday, August 2
Paid
Lafayette, CA
94549
Permit No. 30
945 Risa Road
Lafayette, CA 94549
(925) 283-8575
Address Service Requested
8:45 a.m. Torah Study
10:30 a.m. Shabbat Morning Service
Kiara Kunnes, Bat Mitzvah
Deuteronomy 1:1-3:22, Devarim
Friday, August 8
8:00 p.m. Shabbat Service
followed by Oneg
Saturday, August 9
9:15 a.m. Torah Study
9:30 a.m. Tot Shabbat
10:30 a.m. Shabbat Morning Service
Deuteronomy 3:23-7:11, Vaetchanan
Ti m e ly in fo r matio n EN C LOS ED: P lea se d eliv er b y A u gu st 1
5775 High Holy Days Schedule
Friday, August 15
6:00 p.m. Happy Half Hour Oneg
6:30 p.m. 3rd Shabbat Service
Saturday, August 16
8:45 a.m. Torah Study
10:30 a.m. Shabbat Morning Service
Melissa Pearl, Bat Mitzvah
Deuteronomy 7:12-11:25, Ekev
Friday, August 22
5:30 p.m. Tot Shabbat Dinner
6:00 p.m. Tot Shabbat
8:00 p.m. Shabbat Service
followed by Oneg
Saturday, August 23
9:15 a.m. Torah Study
10:30 a.m. Shabbat Morning Service
Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17, Re’eh
Friday, August 29
6:00 p.m. Oneg
6:30 p.m. 5th Shabbat Service
Saturday, August 30
8:45 a.m. Torah Study
10:30 a.m. Shabbat Morning Service
Ethan Fishlow, Bar Mitzvah
S’lichot
Saturday, September 20
8:30 p.m. S’lichot study
followed by dessert
reception in the
Adult Lounge
10:30 p.m. Service
in the Sanctuary
Graveside Gathering of
Prayer and Remembrance
Sunday, September 21
9:30 a.m. at Isaiah Garden
at Oakmont Memorial Park
and Gan Shalom
Erev Rosh Hashanah
Wednesday, September 24
8:00 p.m. Service
in the Sanctuary
Rosh Hashanah
Thursday, September 25
8:45 a.m. Tot Service
in the CCJDS Makom
8:45 a.m. Family Service
in the Sanctuary followed
by a Tashlich ritual at the
Lafayette Reservoir.
Bring a picnic lunch!
11:00 a.m. Teen Service
in the Adult Lounge
11:00 a.m. Morning Service
in the Sanctuary followed
by a Tashlich ritual at the
Lafayette Reservoir
Friday, September 26
9:00 a.m. Rosh Hashanah
2nd Day Service in the
Beit Knesset
8:00 p.m. Shabbat Shuva
Intergenerational Service
in the Sanctuary followed
by Oneg
Kol Nidre
Friday, October 3
5:15 p.m. Kol Nidre
Service in the Sanctuary
5:15 p.m. Kol Nidre
Children’s Program
in the Talmud Torah Center
8:15 p.m. Kol Nidre
Service in the Sanctuary
Yom Kippur
Saturday, October 4
8:45 a.m. Tot Service
in the CCJDS Makom
8:45 a.m. Family Service
in the Sanctuary
11:00 a.m. Teen Service
in the Adult Lounge
11:00 a.m. Morning Service
with Yizkor in the
Sanctuary followed by
study, contemplation and
Hebrew sacred chant in the
Beit Knesset
4:00 p.m. Afternoon
Service in the Sanctuary
5:30 p.m. Neilah Service
in the Sanctuary
Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9, Shof’tim
More details at www.temple-isaiah.org/highholydays