JValley news August 2012
Film Festival launches season Graduations Jewish Burial Decisions Local Synagogues Meet “The Challenge”
Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley 14855 Oka Rd. Suite 200 Los Gatos, CA 95032 Change Service Requested
Published by the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley Vol. #85 Issue #1, August 2012
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The Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center Talk to us about membership! 408.356.4973 • Holiday celebrations • Classes for all ages • Art exhibits • Cultural events • Social events • Facility rentals • Birthday parties • Dairy cafe
• Fitness center • Aquatics center • Tennis complex • Indoor basketball • Preschool • Day camps • Sports leagues • Swim lessons
14855 Oka Road, Los Gatos, CA 95032 | 408.358.3636 | info@svjcc.org | www.SiliconValleyJCC.org
L’shanah tovah Serving the Senior Community Since 1985 Senior Apartments with a few extras... • 1 & 2 bedroom Floorplans • 3 - course Dinners M-F • Public Health Clinic • Social Services • Shopping Taxi • Active Tenant Council • Near Willow Glen and I-280
814 Saint Elizabeth Drive San Jose • www.Chaihouse.org • (408) 947-1818 2
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JValley news JValley.news is published by the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley
JEWISH FEDERATION CEO: Jyl Jurman jyl@jvalley.org 408-357-7500
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CANDLELIGHTING San Jose, CA
FRI, AUGUST 24.................................7:29 PM FRI, AUGUST 31.................................7:19 PM FRI, SEPTEMBER 7.............................7:08 PM FRI, SEPTEMBER 14..........................6:58 PM ROSH HASHANAH SUN, SEPTEMBER 16........................6:55 PM MON, SEPTEMBER 17....not before 7:50 PM FRI, SEPTEMBER 21..........................6:47 PM YOM KIPPUR TUES, SEPTEMBER 25.......................6:41 PM FRI, SEPTEMBER 28..........................6:36 PM SUKKOT SUN, SEPTEMBER 30........................6:33 PM MON, OCTOBER 1...........not before 7:28 PM FRI, OCTOBER 5.................................6:26 PM SHEMINI ATZERET SUN, OCTOBER 7..............................6:23 PM SIMCHAT TORAH MON, OCTOBER 8...........not before 7:18 PM FRI, OCTOBER 12..............................6:16 PM FRI, OCTOBER 19..............................6:06 PM FRI, OCTOBER 26..............................5:58 PM FIR, NOVEMBER 2.............................5:50 PM FRI, NOVEMBER 9.............................4:43 PM FRI, NOVEMBER 16...........................4:38 PM FRI, NOVEMBER 23...........................4:34 PM FRI, NOVEMBER 30...........................4:32 PM
from the ceo
Rosh Hashannah and many Jewish holidays are fast approaching. Aside from the urgency to compress a five-day work week into two or three days, we are excited about the holidays. The High Holy Days, in particular, entice many in our extended Jewish community to touch base with family and community. It is a time when connections are made or rekindled and in some cases even mended. I want to join the chorus of Jewish professionals to wish you a meaningful holiday season. Our Jewish traditions are remarkable in many ways – not least of which is the need for community. When I think of my tenure here in the South Bay Jewish community, I am awed by how we have grown and developed as a community. We have expanded to over half a dozen synagogues and many havurot (informal prayer groups); we have four Jewish preschools, two day schools and a Jewish high school and, of course, we have the Levy Family Campus, a center for Jewish life. When you are planning your holiday observances, is there someone in your circle who could benefit from being a part of this awesome Jewish community? Ask them to join us. On Yom Kippur, we recite the Selichot prayers – they beckon us towards the days of remembrance by reintroducing the nusach (sacred chant) of the High Holy Day services. The cadences and crescendos of those tunes are familiar, and our recognition of them ignites many memories for us. They remind us of years past, precious people in our lives, cherished times. But they also remind us that there is a new beginning coming; another chance to right things that may have gone astray; an ongoing opportunity to return to our better selves. I am reminded of a children’s song that now is a fervent prayer: Yamim cholfim, shanah overet, aval ha-manginah le-olam nisheret – The days pass, a year goes by, but the tune always remains.
In the coming month, may we all be blessed with the opportunity and the fortitude to look closely and honestly at ourselves, and to turn towards each other and our communities with kindness, hope and promise for the New Year. As we approach these awesome days, I not only wish you and your loved ones a happy, healthy and sweet New Year, but I pray that we also be blessed with being the instruments of turning and returning that will transform our lives, our communities and, indeed, our world. With many happy returns, Shanah Tovah!
jyl jurman, Federation CEO
content Local Highlights
Chai House honors residents Shir Hadash backpack drive Emanu-El dedicates new Torah Shir Hadash launches Hebrew boot camp PJ Library launches new project Sinai cookbook completed JFS volunteers sought Shir Hadash welcomes new associate rabbi Melton min-school expands Federation welcomes Michelle Nathanson Diane Fisher honored for JCRC work APJCC joins Fantasy Football Challenge Temple Emanu-El welcomes new ED
In Every Issue 5 5 5 5 7 9 9 9 12 12 12 17 22
Ask the Rabbi Simchas Datebook Obituaries Professional Directory
18 29 25 32 35
Special Coverage Synagogue listing Jewish Film Festival launches 21st season SPHDS and Yavneh graduates
4 11 30
Guest Writers Jewish burial decisions 2012 Tax Planning Opportunity
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CORRECTION The article concerning Rona Ramon’s guest appearance at the Silicon Valley Jewish Film Festival, which appeared in the July 2012 issue, failed to identify Todd Yellin, vice president of Customer Experience at Netflix, as a member of the Silicon Valley Jewish Film Festival board of directors.
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happy n ew y e ar from the
j ewi sh fe de r ation of si licon valley As we prepare to greet New Year 5773, we urge each and every person in the Silicon Valley Jewish community to find a congregation which can help you hear the sound of the Shofar.
The GreaT Shofar will be Sounded... join wiTh uS So ThaT iT will be heard!
s h a n a t ova h ! Complete High Holy Day information at www.jvalley.org
your Guide To Silicon valley SynaGoGueS ahabat torah (sephardic orthodox) 1537A Meridian Ave., San Jose, 95125-5316 (408) 266-2342 www.ahava.org
congregation Beth david (conservative) 19700 Prospect Rd., Saratoga, 95070-3352 (408) 257-3333 www.beth-david.org
almaden valley torah center (orthodox) 1422 Helmond Lane, San Jose, 95118 (408) 445-1770 www.rabbi770.com
congregation emeth (reform) 17835 Monterey Street, Morgan Hill, 95037 (408) 778-8200 www.emeth.net
Bar yohai sefardic Minyan (orthodox) 1030 Astoria Dr., c/o SPHDS, Sunnyvale, 94087 (408) 746-0614 www.baryohai.org
congregation shir hadash (reform) 20 Cherry Blossom Lane, Los Gatos, 95032 (408) 358-1751 www.shirhadash.org
chabad of cupertino (orthodox) (408) 207-3648 www.chabadofcupertino.com
congregation sinai (conservative) 1532 Willowbrae Ave., San Jose, 95125 (408) 264-8542 www.sinai-sj.org
chabad of s. jose (orthodox) 517 Blossom Hill Rd., #A4, Los Gatos, 95032 (408) 358-5530 www.chabadsj.com chabad of sunnyvale (orthodox) (408) 720-0553 www.chabadsunnyvale.com congregation am echad torah community (orthodox) 1504 Meridian Ave., San Jose, 95125 (408) 267-2591 www.amechad.org
temple Beth sholom (reform) P.O. Box 23397, San Jose, 95153 (408) 978-5566 temple emanu-el (reform) 1010 University Ave., San Jose, 95126-1842 (408) 292-0939 www.templesanjose.org
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Chai House honors residents The Board of Directors of Chai House, San Jose, has honored two residents with the Lee P. Axelrad “Volunteer of the Year” award for their outstanding service during the year 20112012. “JC” (Judis) Corso and Sandy Silver, the honorees, were recognized among the many resident-volunteers, for countless hours spent planning and executing a variety of cultural and religious programs, publicizing the programs in creative ways, successfully managing the “thrift shop” on the premises as a convenience to residents and other volunteer efforts “beyond the call of duty.” A surprise announcement was made and handsome plaques were presented to the honorees during the dinner hour on July 3.
Shir Hadash backpack drive Every year before school starts most families engage in the ritual of buying new backpacks for their school-age children and filling them with paper, pens, markers, crayons, rulers, notebooks, glue and other supplies that they will need for the coming year. However, children who live in the Next Door Solutions shelter, which provides safe living for abused women and their children, generally get left out of this process due to a lack of financial resources. For the last several years Congregation Shir Hadash has stepped up to meet this need by purchasing and filling backpacks for children of different ages with a range of supplies that will help make their academic year more successful. These backpacks help the children prepare for the upcoming year in more ways than one. A fully stocked backpack means that they can enter school on a more equal footing to the other children; they would stand out in a negative way if they didn’t have the supplies that everyone else starts the year with. Tammy Isaacs who is leading the drive this year said, “The children are so excited when they receive their backpacks. They show their gratitude with big smiles and shy hugs. Although you know their lives are hard, you come away feeling glad that you were able to make their day a little brighter. This year Shir Hadash delivered over 70 Backpacks to Next Door Solutions.
l cal news Temple Emanu-El dedicates new Torah in honor of its 150 years August 5, 2011 marked the sesquicentennial of Temple Emanu-El, the oldest congregation in the Silicon Valley. To commemorate this great achievement, the congregation of Temple Emanu-El commissioned a new Torah L’dor V’dor. The congregation and friends of Temple Emanu-El, with the guidance of Sofer Neil Yerman, had the opportunity to write an individual letter in the new Torah. This once-in-a-lifetime experience was opened to all who wished to participate. As one person commented, “When I wrote my letter, I felt a connection with the hundreds of generations of Jews who came before me, who had preserved these words at great cost so that Judaism would be alive today.” This Torah L’dor V’dor is a gift, created by the hands of this generation for the future of our community. Please join the congregation of Temple Emanu-El for a special Torah dedication which will be held on Erev Rosh Hashanah at the Heritage Theater in Campbell. For tickets and additional information, visit www.templesanjose.org or call (408) 292-0939.
Shir Hadash launches Hebrew Boot Camp The students who attended the new Hebrew Boot Camp that Congregation Shir Hadash ran this past summer, did not run obstacle courses designed for soldiers in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). Rather they spent two hours a day, twice a week learning the Hebrew they may have missed either due to moves or other circumstances. Nine students aged 10 to16 participated in this unique summer session. While the majority of students preparing for an eventual B’nai Mitzvah begin their Jewish learning between kindergarten and third grade and attend classes regularly throughout the school year, there are situations where this typical schedule doesn’t work for a family. Generally, it’s because they lived somewhere where a Hebrew education wasn’t possible. “We lived in Kingman, AZ which is a small, remote town with no established synagogue. Even though we hired a Hebrew tutor for our twin daughters, they had a lot of catching up to do once we moved back to the Bay area,” said Dawn Gringorten, a member of Shir Hadash. By attending the Boot Camp, our girls were able to get back on schedule for their B’nai Mitzvah.” Rabbi Lisa Levenberg, the educator at Shir Hadash, said how proud she was of the commitment that the students demonstrated. “It’s hard for kids to take time out of their summer break to devote four hours/week to learning the prayer curriculum. But they persevered and did really well. Another aspect of the program that has been very meaningful is the relationships that the students have formed. For older students who didn’t grow up at Shir Hadash, it has helped them find a sense of community.” Boot Camp Instructor Yael Karmi agreed, “I was nervous about trying this new format and didn’t know if we’d be able to accomplish everything. These students have been incredibly self-motivated and also really encouraging to each other.” Congregation Shir Hadash believes that everyone deserves an opportunity to prepare for a B’nai Mitzvah regardless of his or her age. The success of the program has affirmed the idea of trying new and innovative formats to reach out to less-connected members of the community to strengthen their ties to their heritage.
Rosa Bencuya
408.499.2077 • 408.913.7784 rbencuya@apr.com www.homebyrosa.com Saratoga office 408.741.11111
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l cal news PJ Library® launches “The Yellow Comforter Tzedekah Project” By Eleanor Dickman When the brightly colored cover of one of PJ Library’s newest books with its intriguing long title arrived at Rabbi Leslie Alexander’s desk at The Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley, it sparked an idea which has become an exciting new community-wide initiative. The book is entitled “How Dalia Put a Big Yellow Comforter Inside a Tiny Blue Box,” by Linda Heller, and is a delightfully warm and whimsical story about the power of tzedakah. In the story, big sister Dalia learns the concept of tzedakah from her classroom teacher, and goes home to make a tzedakah box of her own. When younger brother Yossi asks what is in the tiny box, Dalia tells him it is a big yellow comforter. Dalia finds ways to engage her family and classmates in her efforts. Delightful illustrations and a charming narrative create an engaging lesson about charity and philanthropy that even the youngest child can understand. This book generated a lot of excitement! As the PJ Library® program professional, Rabbi Alexander also assists the “PJ Library Goes to School” initiative, a collaboration of five area preschools using PJ books as values-based enrichment tools. She and the Education Directors of these schools ― AddisonPenzak Jewish Community Center (Cyndi Sherman), Shir Hadash (Robin Adelman), Congregation Sinai (Miriam Gurantz), South Peninsula Hebrew Day School (Barbara Goldstein), and Temple Emanu-El (Barbara Smead) along with Yavneh Day School (Rabbi Laurie Hahn Tapper), Congregation Beth David (Iris Bendahan) and Congregation Emeth (Melanie Khamis) ― have developed an exciting new program, “The Yellow Comforter Tzedakah Project,” using Heller’s book to inspire and direct tzedakah projects at these schools. The initiative hopes to collaborate with Jewish Family Services during its yearly “Embrace-a-Family” donation program. Children will create their own tzedakah boxes and then participate in classroom activities to raise funds to provide useful gifts for people of all ages living in our community. At the conclusion of the fundraising effort, each school will create a “store” at which children can shop for specific gifts, hopefully to be given to beneficiaries of the JFS holiday outreach program.
COLLABORATIVE DIVORCE MEANS: Children at the center, NOT in the middle.
The educators encourage parents, grandparents, teachers, and friends to participate in this significant community-wide tzedakah activity, guided by each of these communal institutions working together. This is what Jewish community is about ― everyone cooperating to make the greatest difference ― in very warm and personal ways ― for the people in our community. The children will learn that their tzedakah money provides real things for real people. The “PJ Goes to School” team plans to collaborate with the New Yorkbased author, Linda Heller, and as well as with PJ Library’s headquarters to make this an exceptionally successful community-wide activity. Banners promoting The Yellow Comforter Project will be posted at all the synagogues and participating Constituent Partner organizations beginning during the High Holy Days. The project is scheduled to begin after Sukkot, culminating with a celebration of the children’s accomplishments to take place at PJ Library’s fourth annual Hanukkah Candlelighting program at Santana Row in San Jose on Sunday, December 9.
Better
Collaborative Practice: A Different Way to Divorce
www.cpsv.us
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Collaborative Practice Silicon Valley
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Congregation Beth David There’s a Place for Me at CBD
Come Celebrate High Holy Days with Us! ®
Come observe the High Holy Days in traditional ways, with innovative touches at Congregation Beth David.
Sign up for FREE Tickets
www.Beth-David.org/tickets ts s Find special services and activities for: Individuals, Tots, Youth, Teens, & Families
April 2013: A once-in-A-lifetime experience for teens & Adults Find out about the costs, the itinerary and sign up to be a part of this amazing trip. March with 10,000 others to commemorate the March of the Living. Celebrate Israel’s 65th Independence Day in Israel! Make life-long friends through a meaningful and fun experience in Poland and Israel. To sign up for the Teen info night, please email motl@jvalley.org To sign up for the Adult info night, please email arielle@jvalley.org Or you can call 408.358.3033
Adult trip info session:
Wednesday, Oct. 10 @ 7 pm This trip is for adults ages 26-99 able to travel teen trip info session:
Thursday, Oct. 11 @ 7 pm This trip is for High School students able to travel
Meetings are at the Levy Family Campus, 14855 Oka Rd., Los Gatos 95032
19700 Prospect Road, Saratoga * 408-257-3333 * www.beth-david.org
Temple Beth Sholom High Holy Days Services
Will you heed the call?
Led by Rabbi David Dunn Bauer (Reconstructionist Rabbinical College) Erev Rosh Hashanah 8 pm Sunday, September 16th Rosh Hashanah morning 10 am Monday, September 17th Kol Nidre 8 pm Tueday, September 25th Yom Kippur Morning Service 10 am Wednesday, September 26th Yom Kippur Afternoon Discussion 3 pm Wednesday, September 26th Yiskor 4 pm Wednesday, September 26th Neilah 5 pm Wednesday, September 26th
High Holidays at Congregation Sinai
Rosh Hashanah, September 17-18 Yom Kippur, September 25-26
All time listings are approximate (except Kol Nidre will begin as close as possible to the announced time). We will use the Reform movement Gates of Repentance (CCAR) for our prayer book. Shofar blowers are invited to participate in the shofar services Rosh Hashanah morning and Yom Kippur evening. We will have a dairy (i.e., no meat) potluck break the fast following the conclusion of Yom Kippur services. Services will be held at the San Jose Masonic Center, 2500 Masonic Drive, San Jose (near Canoas Garden Avenue south of Curtner-near Curtner Light Rail Station) These Open to the Community Services are supported by Donations to Temple Beth Sholom For additional information leave a voicemail message at (408) 978-5566 or send email to wsb3attyca@aol.com 8
Join the Sinai community for a spiritual, joyful and life-affirming New Year.
Worship Services
Children’s Activities
1532 Willowbrae Avenue, San Jose, CA 95125 (408) 264 - 8542 office @ sinai-sj.org www.sinai-sj.org
Family Programs
and more…
FREE TICKETS for non-affiliated Bay Area residents who have not previously attended High Holiday services at Congregation Sinai. Tickets also available for non-members. Call Joelle at 408-264-8542 for details.
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Cookbook is long-held vision that comes to fruition By Arielle Hendel Most people work towards daily or even annual goals – Susan Silver has had her eye on a goal for 15 years. In 1997, Susan Silver decided that she wanted to create a book to maintain the culinary traditions of Congregation Sinai. Now, in 2012, the book has been published and it has actually accomplished more than recording recipes – it has captured culture and trends as well. The cookbook, aptly named, “Seasoned with Love” is now in print and available from the Congregation Sinai Sisterhood. Since this project launched, some of the congregants who originally submitted recipes have passed away. Susan Silver said, “The cookbook has unintentionally memorialized some of our beloved members like, LeeAnn Rinsky, Ethel Hellman, Frances Toren and Deborah Brown. We did not set out to publish this without them, but the cookbook helps us remember them.” The cookbook reflects the congregation, spanning a variety of culinary interests. Recipes in the book range from traditional chicken soup to vegan cheesecake. Other recipes reflect the cultural diversity of the congregation and include some Persian, Eastern European, Asian and also California cuisine. Some of the prized recipes are Sinai’s Famous Fish Fry, the 5772 Rosh HaShannah Honey Cake and the Hamantashen baked (almost annually) for the Purim fundraiser. This project also revealed the congregants’ drive towards healthier living in the past 15 years. One congregant submitted recipes in 1997 and forgot about them. When a general call was made for recipes this time, she submitted very different recipes which reflect her family’s lighter and healthier life style. The intent of the cookbook was to capture and codify beloved recipes and honor the chefs who originated them. The unintentional consequence was finding out that congregants have started eating healthier and with fresher ingredients. This project was the long-planned vision of Susan Silver, but she readily credits the Sinai Sisterhood Cookbook Committee for its completion. Deborah Leibovitch, Ellen Tobin, EveLyn Redhill, Lorraine Hoff, Marcia Klein, Rita Buxbaum, Suzanne Peters all took time for planning meetings, collecting recipes and proofreading. Rabbi Josh Berkenwald served as the kashrut guide and contributed to the cookbook. Sy Hoff also assisted with the formatting. The cookbook was published through Morris Press Cookbooks, which provides an on-line platform to input and publish recipes into books. Susan Silver shared that her children David and Miriam were very excited to get their copies of the cookbook. David was especially keen since he is planning to set up his own apartment soon. Susan suggested that the cookbooks would make excellent hostess, holiday or bridal shower gifts as well. “Seasoned with Love” is available for purchase at Pars Market, in the Sinai office or on the congregation’s website (www.sinai-sj.org/) for $25.
l cal news JFS volunteers sought By Cherie Ravel Volunteers change the world and Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley is doing our part. We are currently looking for volunteers interested in making a difference. ESL Teachers and Substitutes Our Vocational ESL students as well as our senior ESL students need teachers two hours twice a week during the school season. “For our students English is not just a language, it is a symbol of a new free life. Our ESL classes help our students build and maintain independence,” said Coordinator of Holocaust Survivors and Émigré Services Galina Chyorny. You don’t need to be an expert – just have the heart, be organized and enjoy sharing who you are with your students. Knitzvah volunteers have been knitting, crocheting and crafting warm hugs for six years. They meet monthly to donate their hats, scarves, sweaters and blankets to Jewish Family Services clients as well as to those in shelters, hospitals, cancer centers and more. Knitzvah members have donated over 10,000 cuddly creations in the past six years. Knitzvah needs your help to continue its good work. Interested in joining Knitzvah? All are welcome regardless of ability. Meeting dates and locations are posted on the JFS website (www.jfssv.org). The next meetings will be held Sundays, August 19 at the Chai House Multi-Purpose Room or September 23 at the APJCC Adult Lounge. Meetings begin at 10:30 a.m. You can also donate unused yarn (any amount, color and kind) to Jewish Family Services for Knitzvah and these gentle hands will turn it into a gift for a family in need. High Holy Day Food Packages will be prepared and distributed to those in need before the High Holy Days. JFS uses volunteers to help us pack food bags and make package deliveries. Volunteers can sign up in advance by sending an email indicating their area of interest. Packing will be done at the JCC on Thursday, September 6 from 9 a.m.-Noon. Deliveries can be made the week of September 10, concluding before Erev of Rosh Hashana on Sunday, September 16. If you are interested in volunteering please visit our website at http://jfssv.org/ volunteer or contact Cherie Ravel (408) 357-7467 or cherier@jfssv.org.
Congregation Shir Hadash welcomes new Associate Rabbi By Naomi Kalmus This July Congregation Shir Hadash welcomed a new Associate Rabbi, Rabbi Josh Lobel. Rabbi Lobel, previously the Associate Rabbi at Temple Chaverim in Plainview, NY, moved cross country to join Congregation Shir Hadash in Los Gatos. He is joined by his wife Elizabeth and their two-year-old son, Ari. Rabbi Lobel and his wife were very excited about the move. They had been thinking about California as a possible destination for their family for some time. The strength and vibrancy of the local Jewish community is one of things that attracted them to the area. At Congregation Shir Hadash, Rabbi Lobel will build on his experience in youth programming by working with the temple youth groups and teaching in the High School program. Reaching out to Jewish young adults in their 20s and 30s, whether they be single, couples without children or parents Continued on page 15
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AIPAC SILICON VALLEY COMMUNITY EVENT Save the Date Sunday, October 21, 2012 6:30pm Join AIPAC and hundreds of members of the pro-Israel community for a discussion on the Middle East peace process. For more information please contact AIPAC at: 415-989-4140 or sf_office@aipac.org Ghaith al-Omari Executive Director, American Task Force on Palestine
Dr. Jonathan Schanzer Vice President of Research, Foundation for Defense of Democracies
The Community Relations Council of the Jewish Federation of silicon Valley and Trepel Greenfield sullivan & draa LLP invite you to
Candidates ReCeption 2012 a nonpartisan reception for Jewish community leaders and silicon Valley candidates for public office
ThuRsday, OCTObeR 18, 2012
5:30 – 7:30 pm Trepel Greenfield sullivan & draa LLP 55 s. Market street, suite 1500, san Jose RsVP by October 12 at www.jvalley.org/jcrc.
Contact Diane Fisher (408)357-7504 or diane@jvalley.org for questions. Parking available at San Pedro St. Garage and also on Market St. at the lot between Post and Santa Clara St.
Remarks from the Consul General of Israel for the Pacific Northwest Region
Community Relations Council
Trepel Greenfield Sullivan & Draa LLP
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l cal news
Silicon Valley Jewish Film Festival launches 21st season with 23 movies By Jill Becker
This is the time of year when people begin thinking seriously about the Jewish holidays and – of course – the Silicon Valley Jewish Film Festival (www.svjff.org). The Festival is launching its 21st season in October with a slate of 23 hard-hitting dramas, provocative features, fascinating docudramas, and poignant documentaries that will be screened in theaters from Palo Alto and Campbell to San Jose. And for the first time, Big Bird and Elmo will make an unlikely appearance at the SVJFF, when those lovable characters learn about Jewish holidays in “Shalom Sesame” – a can’t-miss film for parents, grandparents and, naturally, kids. The fun begins with the annual Patron Event at the Sunnyvale Community Center on October 11, when Festival donors are treated to a private reception and the screening of a specially selected movie that will not be shown to moviegoers during the regular Fall Festival. About a week later, the Festival officially kicks off on Saturday night, October 20 and runs through Sunday, November 18. To broaden its appeal to busy moviegoers with hectic schedules, the Festival is showing films this year on more days during the week. Films will be shown this year on Saturday nights, Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays. Opening Night will showcase a special program that includes the movie “An Article of Hope,” a tug-at-your-heart film about Ilan Ramon, Israel’s pioneering first astronaut who perished 10 years ago in the tragic Columbia shuttle crash. You’ll learn that his mission also had an unlikely Jewish connection that will stir deep emotions within you. Young Nicholas Winston with rescued child
Aside from the movie, you’ll also be treated to a special program that includes a motivational speech by Rona Ramon, Ilan’s widow, and an appearance by film director Dan Cohen, who took seven years to make the film. A reception will cap off an exciting Opening Night. The Festival kicks into high gear the following day on Sunday, October 21, and the films keep coming right through a fun-filled Closing Night on November 18 that will have you tapping your feet from the moment the film begins. Here are brief descriptions of just some of the 23 films that will be shown at the Silicon Valley Jewish Film Festival this Fall: • “G-d’s Fiddler”: Jascha Heifetz, a masterful documentary about the definitive violinist of the 21st century • “My Australia”: The moving feature about a single mother whose two sons join an anti-Semitic street gang, unaware of the fact that they are Jewish • “Dr. Pomerantz”: A feature film about a down-on-his-luck psychologist who comes up with a scheme to lease his high-rise Tel Aviv apartment to patients who want to end it all • “Follow Me”: A look at the amazing life of Yoni Netanyahu, the leader of a group of Israeli special forces who rescued hostages in Entebbe, Uganda in 1977. He was the only Israeli casualty in that raid • “David”: A feature about a Muslim boy and son of a Brooklyn imam, who discovers friendship with several modern Orthodox boys who assume he is Jewish • “Nicky’s Family”: A documentary about Nicholas Winton, now 100 years old, who organized the Kindertransport and rescued more than 600 Jewish children from Czechoslovakia in 1939 • “Sonny Boy”: A feature film about a young black man from Dutch Guiana who emigrates to Holland, marries a Dutch woman, and shelters Dutch Jews during the Nazi occupation The movies for the Fall Festival will be shown at the Camera 12 theater in San Jose, the Camera 7 theater in the Pruneyard Shopping Center in Campbell, and at the Oshman Family Jewish Community Center on the Taube Koret Campus for Jewish Life in Palo Alto. For those on the SVJFF mail list, the final schedule of movies, times and theaters will appear in the Festival Program Guide and mailed in September. To add your name to the SVJFF mail list, click on info@svjff.org and submit your name and address. To stay up-to-date with Festival activities or to make a Patron donation or order tickets, go to http://www.svjff.org/ or call (408) 899-6013. See you at the movies! www.jvalley.org
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n campus Melton Mini-School expands The Florence Melton Adult Mini-School in Los Gatos is growing – significantly. And that is a good thing for adult Jewish learners across the Bay Area. The Melton Adult Mini-School, a project of the Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center, is the only such program in Northern California. Although in past years classes were only held at the APJCC, this year something new is in the works. This coming fall, classes in the area’s Melton school will take place at the APJCC and also at local synagogues, creating a network of learning communities that spans the entire South Bay. In addition to core courses at the APJCC and Congregation Beth David in Saratoga, Foundations for Jewish Living, a course designed for parents, will take place at the APJCC, Congregation Beth David, Temple Emanu-El in San Jose, and Congregation Beth Am in Los Altos. Additional courses on Stories of the Talmud, and Jewish Denominations will continue to be taught exclusively at the APJCC. The Melton Adult Mini-School is a rigorous but accessible course of Jewish study designed by scholars at The Hebrew University in Jerusalem and taught with a pluralistic approach that draws upon the best scholarship from all movements of Judaism. There are no exams, no homework, and no prerequisites. The only requirement is the desire to learn. Melton is the largest pluralistic Jewish adult education program in the world. Rabbi James Greene, the APJCC’s rabbi, noted this wonderful expansion as an opportunity for the entire Jewish community to take part in Jewish learning. “Our tradition commands us to study. However, it is always hard to find the right time or the right location to engage. Now, that barrier is gone. Classes will take place during the morning, in the evening, during the week and on Sundays. The opportunity is all around!” Students are drawn to Melton because of the pluralistic approach, comprehensive curriculum, and first-rate teachers. That could not be truer here as area rabbis have stepped up to the plate to offer classes. “The rabbis are waiting,” Rabbi James continued. “Now, we just need the students. Come join us – come and learn.” For more information on classes, times, locations, and to register for a Melton class, please visit the APJCC website at http://www.siliconvalleyjcc.org/jplace or by calling (408) 357-7413.
Jewish Federation welcomes Michelle Nathanson Michelle Nathanson joined the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley on July 1 as the Financial Resource Development Director. Michelle comes here with 26 years of fundraising experience. Michelle started her career as the director of adult services at the Jewish Community Center in Tucson, Arizona. While working at the JCC she received her Graduate Certification in Gerontology and her MSW from Wurzweiler School of Social Work where she was a JCCA recipient. After relocating to Denver Colorado she served as the director of development for Jewish Family Service and the executive director for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Michelle then went on to consult for more than 9 years with non-profits. Her focus was on how to maximize the fund-raising and friend-raising components of their events. She would work with non-profit agencies to increase their individual giving, engagement and leadership development as a result of attendance at events. After leaving Denver, Michelle worked as the director of development for the Orange County Child Abuse Prevention Center and for the Hope Through Housing Foundation for the past 5 years. Michelle is married to Scott and they have been married for 19 years this October. They have two children, Hannah (12) and Robbie (9). Join in welcoming the Nathanson family to this community.
Diane Fisher honored by the Human Relations Commission for JCRC work The Human Relations Commission for the County of Santa Clara marks its 40th anniversary of the commission this year. This year’s awards breakfast will be held on Friday, September 28 at the Holiday Inn in San Jose and the theme will be Arts, Culture and the Affirmation of a Multicultural Community. At the breakfast, several in the community will be honored for their extraordinary work in this area. Among those being honored is Diane Fisher, Community Relations Council Director of the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley. This honor is magnified by the fact that very few in the Jewish Community have received this award in the past. The commission selected this theme because of a significant trend towards integrating arts and culture in promoting social justice and social change. This is no longer art for art's sake. Artists and activists are using the arts in increasingly diverse ways to engage and build communities to address societal problems, including issues of economic, educational and environmental injustice as well as inequities in civil and human rights. Much of this work is being done at the grassroots and community levels by artists and relatively small cultural organizations that are preserving, promoting and expanding the cultural expression that helps to define, empower and construct the social and political identities of their communities. Demographic shifts have resulted in changes to arts and cultural expression that have created significant impact to the fabric of cultural and socio-political life not only here in Silicon Valley but in the nation as well. Diane and her JCRC committee have built and strengthened relationships across diverse ethnic and religious groups in Silicon Valley, and they facilitated partnerships between the community and government leaders. Some of those projects include: •A community commemoration of the 10th anniversary of September 11 in association with Supervisor Cortese, Islamic Networks Group, and the Silicon Valley Interreligious Council. The program used the film “Love Hate Love”, a documentary about three families torn apart by terrorism who transformed their trauma through volunteer projects, to promote community service locally. Muslim, Jewish, Buddhist and Christian faith leaders spoke about the power of hope created through public service; Continued on page 17
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www.jvalley.org
The ongoing vitality of the Jewish people lies in the richness of its communal life and the vibrancy of its cultural and spiritual expression. The Koret Taube Initiative on Jewish Peoplehood seeks to create positive Jewish identities through shared experiences that inspire a sense of connectedness for every generation.
Los Gatos Memorial Park Shalom Garden
Serving the Bay Area Jewish community since 1889 Peaceful, park-like setting overlooking Santa Cruz Mountains
*Pre Plan and receive a discount *Graveside Ceremonies in a serene setting *Upright monuments available *Trained funeral professionals *Traditional caskets and ritual services
Schedule a tour of Shalom Garden and receive a
$25
Viva Restaurant Gift Card!
2255 Los Gatos-Almaden Rd., San Jose, CA 95124
www.losgatosmemorialpark.com
(408) 356-4151 Darling-Fischer Mortuaries
Jewish Peoplehood
Chapel of the Hills 615 N. Santa Cruz Ave. Los Gatos, CA 95030 (408) 354-7740 FD940
Garden Chapel 471 E. Santa Clara St. San Jose, CA 95112 (408) 998-2226 FD557
Campbell Memorial Chapel 231 E. Campbell Ave. Campbell, CA 95008 (408) 379-5010 FD898
www.darlingandfischer.com
L’Shana Tova Tikatevu from Temple Emanu-El Celebrating over 150 Years of Tradition and Innovation! For High Holy Days Tickets call (408) 292-0939 or visit our website at www.templesanjose.org!
Special Dedication of our 150th Anniversary Torah L’dor V’dor on Erev Rosh Hashanah
In 2011, in commemoration of our 150 year history, the congregation and friends of Temple Emanu-El joined together with Sofer Neil Yerman to write a new Torah L’dor V’dor. Join us on Erev Rosh Hashanah for a special dedication of our new Torah, a gift for the future generations of our community. 1010 University Ave San Jose, CA 95126
www.jvalley.org
2012/5773 HIGH HOLY DAYS SERVICE SCHEDULE Services will be held at the Heritage Theatre in Campbell, unless otherwise noted.
Selichot and Study 7:00 PM 8:00 PM 9:00 PM
Saturday, September 8 at Temple Emanu-El Study Reception Selichot Service
Erev Rosh Hashanah 6:00 PM 8:00 PM
Sunday, September 16 Family Alternative Service (1st grade and up) Rosh Hashanah Evening Service (Special Torah Dedication)
Rosh Hashanah Day 9:00 AM 10:00 AM 5:00 PM
Monday, September 17 Children’s Service (Preschool – Kindergarten) Congregational Service/Gesher Program Tashlich at Oak Meadow Park
Kever Avot Service 1:00 PM
Sunday, September 23 at Oak Hill Memorial Park, Chapel of Roses
Kol Nidre 6:00 PM 8:00 PM
Tuesday, September 25 Family Alternative Service (1st grade and up) Kol Nidre Service
Yom Kippur 9:00 AM 10:00 AM 12:30 PM (appx) 1:15 PM (appx) 2:00 PM 2:30 PM 3:15 PM 4:00 PM 4:45 PM
Wednesday, September 26 Children’s Service (Preschool - Kindergarten) Congregational Service/Gesher Program Sermon Discussion with Rabbi Social Action/Tikkun Olam Discussion Torah Study with Cantor Simerly Afternoon Healing Service with Haftarah Meditation and Tai Chi Musical Interlude Yizkor, Neilah, and Havdalah Services (open to the community) Break the Fast
6:30 PM (appx) 408.292.0397
www.templesanjose.org
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save t h e date : Jan uary 13 Welcome the New Year 5773 with Shir Hadash The following High Holy Day activities and services are free and open to the public. S’lichot - Saturday, September 8, 2012, Event and service 8:00 pm, Trial of Jacob, Congregation Shir Hadash. Come bear witness to the trial of Jacob, our forefather who will be charged with theft by trickery and elder abuse and represented by a team of prominent defense attorneys Havdalah and S’lichot Service 10:00 pm-10:50 pm, Congregation Shir Hadash Rosh Hashanah- Monday September 17, 2012, Family Service, 3:30 pm at Congregation Shir Hadash Shabbat Shuvah- Saturday, September 22, 2012 10:30 am at Wildwood Park Saratoga. Join us for an informal Shabbat service, followed by Tashlich and Brunch; note new location Yom Kippur- Wednesday, September 26, 2012 Family Service and Yizkor Family service 3:30 pm at Congregation Shir Hadash Yizkor 4:45 pm at Sacred Heart Church of Saratoga; time approximate For more information on High Holy Day services and tickets at Shir Hadash, please visit our website. http://www.shirhadash.org/hhd. Or call the temple office at 354-1751 ext. 5
Mah jongg tournament
the APJCC and Women’s Philanthropy of the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley invite you to save the date for our annual two-tiered Mah Jongg tournament.
SundAy, JAnuARy 13, 2013 LeVy FAMILy CAMPuS $54 PeR PeRSon Info/Registration: www.jvalley.org
or contact Arielle Hendel: arielle@jvalley.org, 408.357.7501
There’s still time to become a member and sign up for religious school. Contact Nadine at 408 358-1751 x5 or office@shirhadash.org
Stimulate Your Brain and Enrich Your Soul Free Multi-generational Sukkot morning. Join us for song, prayer and crafts in the Sukkah. Bring your grandparent or grandchild. October 1, 2012, 9:30 am Community Shabbat - Noah’s Ark and the Animals. Join us at Kelly Park San Jose for breakfast and an informal Shabbat service followed by a scavenger hunt at the zoo. October 30, 2012, 9:30 am BJE’s Exploring the World of Judaism. Starts September 23, 2012, 9:30 am 14 Sunday morning talks by notable speakers on a wide variety of topics and speakers. No fee, no reservations, and free bagels. Stop by for a nosh and knowledge. Jewish Book Group, For those who love books with Jewish themes. Two contemporary books about Anne Frank. Starts September 9, 2012, 10:45 am
PICTURE
2000
Torah Study. Engage in passionate discussions about the human side of the Biblical narrative. Saturday mornings at 9:30 am. Starts October 13, 2012. For more information on services, programs and adult ed please visit shirhadash.org
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www.jvalley.org
l cal news Rabbi Lobel joins Shir Hadash Continued from page 9 with young families, is another activity that Rabbi Lobel is very eager to undertake. As someone who loves all kinds of Jewish music, including innovative and unique Jewish music, Rabbi Lobel sees Shir Hadash and its strong musical tradition as being a perfect fit. Commenting on her meetings with Rabbi Lobel, Rabbi Aron said, “We were very impressed by Rabbi Lobel’s energy and by the study he did of our Congregation in advance of his visit. From what we hear from those with whom he is currently working, it is that attention to detail that he brings to all that he does. He is someone who gives 100%+ to all he does.” Andy Altman, who led the Rabbi search committee, commented, “Outreach to the unaffiliated Jews in Silicon Valley is something that Rabbi Lobel is very passionate about. I feel very confident that his efforts to seek out and engage these individuals will be beneficial to both Shir Hadash and the larger Jewish community.” A native New Yorker, Rabbi Lobel looked forward to saying goodbye to his snow shovel and exploring the beautiful surrounding of the Bay as well as taking in all the arts, music and cultural opportunities. And while he may miss his NY Giants, Yankees and Knicks, he is ready to embrace our San Jose Sharks. In addition to being a big sports fan, Rabbi Lobel loves to cook. He loves creating something new and special that people will enjoy – and not having to wash the dishes. Denise Pringle, VP of administration on the board of Shir Hadash and another member of the Rabbi search committee commented on Rabbi Lobel’s prior experience. “Because Rabbi Lobel is coming to us with some prior experience from another synagogue, he will bring a different voice, a new perspective and new ideas about how to do things. Every organization needs to find ways to renew itself and Rabbi’s Lobel’s insights will help Shir Hadash grow.” Please join us in welcoming Rabbi Lobel and his family to Shir Hadash and Silicon Valley.
S ire hit t a S e “th rk.” the ma Street all - the w rnal Jou
“Th are e Capit wha ol S wou t Wash teps in ever ld b e lik gton yon and e were e if sm c - P.J ould si arter . O’R ng.” ourk e
Save the date: ry 2, 2013 rua Saturday evening, Feb Jewish Federation of Silicon valley annual event featuring the Capitol Steps honoring Jyl Jurman’S 25 yearS oF ServiCe to the JewiSh Community at the levy Family Campus ChairS: bonnie Slavitt moore and Judy levin Stay tuned for details • www.jvalley.org ®
www.jvalley.org
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Schmooze with the Author:
Laura Turbow Photography
APJCC Book Club
aPJCC visiting aUtHors anD DistingUisHeD sPeakers
Maggie Anton: Rav Hisda’s Daughter Sunday, October 28th | 9:30am at Cong. Shir Hadash
Hisdadukh is the youngest child of Talmudic sage Rav Hisda. The world around her is full of conflict. Rome, battles Zoroastrian Persia for dominance while Rav Hisda struggles to establish new Jewish traditions after the destruction of Jerusalem’s Holy Temple. Against this backdrop Hisdadukh embarks on the tortuous path to become an enchantress in the land where the word ‘magic’ originated.
Professor Jay Ladin made headlines around the world when, after years of teaching literature at Yeshiva University, he returned to the Orthodox Jewish campus as a woman—Joy Ladin. In Through the Door of Life, Joy Ladin takes readers inside her transition as she created a new self.
A television producer moonlights as a cantor, an actress leaves her husband for their nanny, a young widow gets her hair colored to prepare for the unveiling of her husband’s gravestone – in her debut collection Moving Waters, award winning writer Racelle Rosett explores the unexpected role of ancient ritual as it informs the lives of members of a Reform Jewish community in Hollywood.
The gears of world war have begun to grind, but Inky Lautman, star point guard for the South Philadelphia Hebrew Association, has his own problems. His coach has a gambling debt to a group of American Nazis. His basketball rival is protesting against fascism. And his girlfriend wants him to join a Jewish student organization that’s all talk and no action. Inky just wants to play ball and occasionally beat people up for money. When the Bund comes calling, Inky has to make a stand.
The Jewish people have, throughout history, moved from place to place. The Traveler’s Prayer has offered comfort to those embarking on life’s journeys. This beautifully-illustrated book highlights the migrations, while presenting a child-friendly adaptation of this meaningful prayer.
Joy Ladin Through the Door of Life Thursday, November 1st | 7:00pm
Racelle Rosett: Moving Waters Monday, November 12th | 7:00pm
Neal Pollack: Jewball Monday, December 3rd | 7:00pm
Joshua Buchin Tefilat HaDerech Thursday, October 4th | 4:00pm
All events are at 7:00pm except as noted. $7 per person. Visit www.SiliconValleyJcc.org/JPlace for all the details. 408.357.7411
All events are at 7:00pm except as noted and are free. Visit www.SiliconValleyJCC.org/JPlace. 408.357.7411
the florence Melton adult Mini-school an in-depth educational, comprehensive program without grades, exams, homework or prerequisites for enrollment. adult Jewish education done right. Classes begin in oCtober at a variety of loCations Core Classes rhythms of Jewish living focuses on the ideas, beliefs, and practices that define Jewish life. Purposes of Jewish living explores sources both ancient and modern in pursuit of answers to many of the major issues of Jewish thought and theology. sCHolar CoUrses Jewish Denominations: addressing the Challenges of Modernity examines Jewish identity and religious expression against the backdrop of dramatic political and social change of the past 300 years. tales from the talmud explores the texts that have helped Judaism persist for many centuries. foUnDations foundations of Jewish family living provides you with the learning, the language, and the confidence to be a teacher to our own children. PUrPoses for foUnDations Purposes of Jewish living concentrates on the ultimate purposes of Judaism and will help you discover how to shape your Jewish life at home.
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tHe Melton CoMMUnit y it’s not wHat yoU tHink
CoMe insiDe! “the best aDUlt learning I’ve ever experIenced.”
information/registration:
svjcc.org/jplace
or call 408.357.7413 each Melton course is offered at a variety of locations, days of the week, and times to accommodate a majority of adult schedules.
“i now know what i believe as a Jew, and why.”
locations include the aPJCC in los gatos, Congregation beth David in saratoga, temple emanu-el in san Jose, and Congregation beth am in los altos Hills.
“A marvelous catalyst for Jewish learning in my life.”
“
Melton CHangeD My life ”
“clAsses Are MeaningfUl And inforMative”
www.jvalley.org
l cal news
The APJCC is up for “The Challenge” – are you? By Jason Goldstein The Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center of Silicon Valley (APJCC) is excited to be participating in the second season of The JCCs of North America Fantasy Football Challenge. Last season there were more than 200 teams that participated, representing dozens of JCCs in head-tohead weekly competition. Teams will be vying for prizes all throughout the NFL season with a portion of the proceeds going back to our JCC at the end of the year. With more than 40 JCCs on board this season, the APJCC is looking forward to recruiting as many teams and leagues as possible. “We’re excited about bringing this event to Silicon Valley,” said Jason Goldstein of the APJCC. “We know a lot of our members enjoy playing in fantasy football leagues, and this is a way to enjoy fantasy football and support the JCC at the same time.” Unlike other fantasy football sites, The Challenge is part fun, and part fundraiser. It is $50 for teams to register and 75% of the net proceeds will go back to the APJCC. APJCC members, non-members, friends, family and staff are all welcome to play. Teams must be 18 years or older, but families are welcome to play as long as one member is 18+ and can be the recipient of prizes.
JCRC director receives award Continued from page 12 •partnering with the county Office of Women’s Policy on a number of projects that lift up those on the periphery, through creative programs that raise awareness and engage volunteers in acts of compassion. Among them a special event called “Toward Women’s Economic Equality: A Freedom Seder for All”; •serving on the committee that plans the county Holocaust Remembrance Ceremony. This annual interfaith ceremony has provided powerful testimony not only from Holocaust survivors, but from survivors of Sudanese, Cambodian and Rwandan genocides, which serves to humanize the unfathomable tragedies; •reviving the historically strong relationship between the AfricanAmerican and Jewish communities; •working with middle school students from the Islamic School of Sunnyvale and Yavneh Jewish Day School, in partnership with ING, to create an exhibit of poetry and art on the theme of peace. For more information or if you would like to attend the breakfast, please order online at http://humanrelationsawards2012.eventbrite.com/ or call Vardys_JCC_ad2 1/27/06 3:11 PM Page 1 (408) 792-2310.
Matthew Berry, ESPN fantasy analyst will be returning as honorary commissioner of The Challenge. He will be hosting a Pre-Draft Chat Night August 28 at 5 p.m. PST so mark your calendars. Matthew also will be calling the grand prize winner at the end of the season to congratulate him or her on a fantastic season. The APJCC will be hosting special events focusing on Bay Area football teams throughout the season — details will be posted on www.SiliconValleyJCC.org. The Challenge welcomes all skill levels – novice to expert – and you can request to be placed in a league with friends. The Challenge will have its own ESPN leader board so you will only be competing against other JCC teams. More information about how to sign up on ESPN will be sent to you after you register with JCC Association. Teams can register with JCC Association through their website www.discoverjcc.com/JCCFF. It is $50 for teams to register. Teams are eligible to win dozens of prizes, including a grand prize trip for four to Disney World Resorts, with round trip airfare on Southwest Airlines and a four-night stay at the Peabody Hotel in Orlando, Florida. Additional prizes include Six Flags tickets, AbCoasters, and titanium poker sets, aluminum picnic tables, 3-piece luggage sets, golf bags and picnic baskets provided by Staples. Teams that register as APJCC teams are eligible to win prizes directly from the APJCC as well. If you have any questions, be sure to visit www.discoverjcc.com/JCCFFC and feel free to contact Jason Goldstein at the APJCC, jason@svjcc.org or (408) 357-7497.
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rabbi’s column By Rabbi Joshua Berkenwald, Congregation Sinai With the High Holy Days fast approaching, we have much preparing to do. One of the ways that we get ready is by sounding the shofar each day of the Hebrew month preceding the new year, Elul. It both reminds us that there are tasks to be accomplished, and prepares us for Rosh Hashanah, the Day of Blasting, that will occur at the end of the month. While the Torah tells us explicitly that we are to celebrate Rosh Hashanah by sounding the shofar, it does not tell us why. This silence invites us to search the piercing notes for a transformative message; how does the sound of the shofar move us? Saadia Gaon was the greatest scholar of his generation and the leader of the Babylonian Jewish community in the early tenth century. He compiled a “Top Ten List” of symbolic reasons for blowing the shofar on Rosh Hashanah. More than a millennium later, many of his reasons are still relevant. Here are his top ten: 1. The sound of the shofar is like the sound of trumpets announcing a royal coronation. We acknowledge G-d’s majesty with shofar blasts on the day that we celebrate the creation of the world. 2. The sound of the shofar is meant to shake our hearts into penitence. As the first of the Ten Days of Repentance, Rosh Hashanah is an especially auspicious time to turn to G-d in teshuvah (repentance). 3. The revelation of G-d to the Jewish people at Mount Sinai was accompanied by the sound of shofar blasts. The sound of the shofar recalls that sacred moment, and reminds us of our covenantal obligations as Jews. 4. The sound of the shofar echoes the voices of the Prophets, crying out against our wrongdoing and exhorting us to fulfill our moral obligations to G-d and human beings. 5. The shofar reminds us of the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem and of our responsibility to strive for the restoration of Jewish unity. 6. The shofar, a ram’s horn, reminds us of the ram that was sacrificed in the place of Isaac on Mount Moriah. It thus recalls the faith and devotion of Abraham for G-d. 7. The magnificent sound of the shofar evokes G-d’s might and majesty, and our own comparative humility. 8. The shofar reminds us of the Day of Final Judgment, on which the deeds of all people will be scrutinized by G-d. 9. The sound of the shofar is the call of freedom. It heralds the return of Israel’s exiles and homeless to the Holy Land. It is a call of hope. 10. The shofar will announce the coming of the Messianic Age, when the entire world will be filled with righteousness, and war and bloodshed will cease. In addition to these traditional aspects of the shofar, our modern Jewish sense of being global citizens with obligations outside of our own community suggests an additional meaning. We hear in the shofar a call to correct injustice wherever it occurs, whether here in our own community or on the other side of the world. For the shofar call to be effective, however, the resonance that we feel in our hearts must spread out to our limbs. Our feet and hands must walk and act to make us better people, and our lips must speak words of teshuvah. We must challenge ourselves, in the new year, to recommit our entire selves to acts of chesed and tzedakah, (lovingkindness and charity). As we prepare for the new year, let the sound of the shofar inspire us to turn outward as well as inward. Find an opportunity to volunteer. Donate money to a worthy cause. This Rosh Hashanah, may the sound of the shofar move our hearts, souls and bodies to reach for greater heights of personal growth, religious commitment, and devotion to bettering the world. L’Shana Tovah Umetukah. May we all be inscribed for a sweet year. 18
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Are you hoping to spiritually prepare for the New Year and Yom Kippur? Find the quiet, the holiness and the support in seeking renewal by immersing in the
mikvah
Call (408) 357-7444 or email Mikvah@JValley.org and our Mikvah guides will help you design an experience of immersion that will help you move into the High Holy Days with a refreshed soul.
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So your family is growing? Mazal Tov! Your Silicon Valley Jewish Community is so happy about the birth of your child and we want to celebrate with you.
Our Shalom Baby program delivers a special gift bag to you either at the hospital or at home. We want you to know just how valued you and your family are in our community. Just let us know that the baby has arrived by contacting Arielle Hendel at the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley. (408) 3577501 or arielle@jvalley.org. One of our Shalom Baby Ambassadors will contact you to make a delivery. If you are a grandparent, a family member or a friend, you are invited to inform us as well.
www.jvalley.org
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guest writer Cremation or burial? Why you should bury your loved one the Jewish way By Doron Kornbluth In normal circumstances, children must respect their parents’ wishes. Parents say go to school, kids must go to school. Parents say go to sleep, kids must go to sleep. Parents say eat your vegetables, kids must eat their vegetables. While parents must be very careful when and how to enforce their authority (better few commands which are obeyed than more commands which are ignored), and while many otherwise wonderful children tend to ignore this rule more often than they should (Hi, kids!), we understand why our tradition places such importance on respecting parents. It is, after all, one of the Ten Commandments and represents our relationship with G d. Someone who respects their parents’ authority will more easily do so with G d. Someone who rejects their parents’ authority will usually have trouble accepting that ultimately, it is G d who runs the world. There are exceptions, however, and one of them includes going against a parent’s final wishes. If a parent instructs children that he or she wants to be cremated, Jewish law—which places huge emphasis on respecting parents’ wishes—obligates children to ignore the command and provide a traditional Jewish burial for their parents. Who are funerals for, anyway? Things change when the body dies. The soul is released. It is immediately closer to G d, the true source of knowledge. It is a strange question, I know, but one that will determine many of the choices made at the time of death—and our entire understanding of this crucial spiritual transition point. If one believes that funerals are for the living, then do whatever the living want to do. Bury, cremate, leave the body for the vultures, mummify it, put it on a flaming boat down the river, throw it in the garbage, put in under your floorboards, cannibalize it, or do one of the many things that societies throughout the ages have done or do to the bodies of their loved ones. The soul doesn’t care, and probably doesn’t know anyway. It is in a “better place,” and what happens to “its” body is really of no consequence. But what if funerals are (primarily) for the dead? Consider this: Each of us has a “part of G d,” so to speak, inside of us. It is the neshamah, the soul. It is pure, untainted, and closely connected to its source, the source of all knowledge—G d Himself. Deep down, when we get in touch with our soul, we access this source of knowledge. We sense what is true, what is right and what is holy. But it is not easy to access that deep source of knowledge. Our souls are kept prisoner in our bodies. The body is not an enemy, of course, as it enables us to help others and fix the world. But it does limit the soul. Base desires, ego, fears and confusion make it extremely difficult for “me” to know what is really going on, what is really important and what path I should follow. Things change when the body dies. The soul is released. It is immediately closer to G d, the true source of knowledge. The “me” suddenly has much clearer access to Him. Still, the soul does not leave its body immediately. Could a loving wife immediately leave her husband after decades of loving togetherness? The soul stays close by, “ascending on high” slowly, stage by stage. Immediately after death, in the very first stage of its ascent, the soul’s main concern is that “its” body—its partner over many decades—receive a proper Jewish burial. The soul cries out in pain if its body is treated disrespectfully and screams in unimaginable horror if its beloved body, a holy vessel, is put to the flame. When the body is alive, the body feels pain. When the body can no longer feel pain—i.e., when it dies—the soul feels its partner’s “physical” pain at a highly spiritual level. This is why children must disregard parents’ request for cremation. Now, right now, the parents know far more than they knew when alive. Now, right now, the parents’ souls are literally begging their children for a traditional Jewish burial. The child is listening to the parents’ wishes—their unstated, unrealized, true wishes. Cremation misconceptions For some situations in life, it is certainly appropriate to go cheap. Why not save money, especially in hard economic times? But not for all areas of life. The question of what to do with the body of a loved one—or, when the time comes, one’s own—is not theoretical. Cremation is getting more and more popular today in the Western world, and over one-third of all Jewish dead in North America in 2011 were cremated. Why the trend? Here are a few examples of the “conventional wisdom”…and some facts: Cremation is better for the environment. Actually, it isn’t. Cremation uses a tremendous amount of fossil fuels, and releases toxins—including mercury—into the air. This misconception probably is caused by environmental opposition to embalming and metal caskets. Because of cremation’s negative environmental impact and modern burial’s problematic practices, environmentalists favor “green burial,” with no embalming or metal caskets. Sound familiar? Jewish tradition forbids cremation, metal caskets and embalming—and our burial tradition is known to be eco-friendly. continued on page 23 20
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Paula Poundstone live at the APJCC
Saturday, October 27th 8:00pm
For information and tickets
www.jvalley.org/events or contact Lisa Ceile at lisacg@svjcc.org or 408.357.7492
速
Teitelbaum Family Center for the Arts
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l cal news Temple Emanu-El welcomes new Executive Director Kama Fletcher By Jim Heerwagen Kama started at Emanu-El on May 26 and brings with her an impressive background providing programmatic leadership in fundraising and customer service for community-based, mission-driven organizations. Kama is from San Jose and now lives in Almaden Valley with her husband and five children. She has close ties to many people and organizations in the community. Kama has spent the last ten years working with non-profits in the local area. She comes to us from The Tech Museum, where she was director of individual giving. Before that she was director of development at the Role Model Program, which provides positive adult role models to underserved youth. She first began her work with non-profits as director of development for Kara, which offers compassionate peer support and education to people coping with death and dying. In these roles she has been responsible for managing major projects, events, media relations, and strategy development, as well as securing the funds that enabled the organizations to achieve their missions. Prior to her work in the non-profit sector, Kama was successful in marketing and public relations roles for Ariba and Merrill Lynch. Kama is a warm, energetic, and thoughtful professional. She is excited to help lead our efforts to increase engagement in the congregation and strengthen relationships with our community. Please join me in welcoming her to Temple Emanu-El!
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guest writer Traditional burial continued from page 20 There isn’t enough land for cemeteries. Actually, there is. Living in urban centers and paying high rents, it is understandable why we feel that there isn’t any land available. But the numbers show just the opposite. Even if every American death was followed by burial, it would take over 10,000 years just to use up one percent of America’s landmass! And, presumably, few if any cemeteries would survive that long anyway. Burials take up very little land, and there is plenty available—usually within an hour or two of urban centers. No one will visit the grave anyway, so why have one? Actually, although visiting a grave is both important and beautiful, it has absolutely nothing to do with the obligation to bury. At the end of the Torah, G d Himself buries Moses and hides the location forever (in order to avoid it becoming a place of idol worship). Although no one will ever visit his place of eternal rest, G d chose burial over the multitude of options available. Decomposition is disgusting. [Skip this point if you are squeamish]. Actually, while decomposition is hardly a sight to behold, cremation hardly seems any better. Despite the advertisements, the process is neither quick nor clean. An average body burns in the oven for 1.5–2 hours, with bigger bodies lasting even longer. During the process, the body moves back and forth, crackles and sizzles. The brain bubbles. Think of the stench of burning hair and flesh. Once the oven (a.k.a. retort, chamber or incinerator) has finished its gruesome task, the remains are not yet “ashes.” What are left in the oven are actually dry bone fragments. They are manually swept out and placed into a machine where they are ground up (a.k.a. pulverized, cremulated or processed) for about 20 minutes, in order to fit the remains into a small urn. The point is not whether burial or cremation is more disgusting. The point is that cremation is not pleasant—it is a loud, violent, repulsive and artificial process. On the other hand, decomposition, while not pretty, is a biological process, and the natural way of every living being. Cremation is cheaper. Actually, this piece of conventional wisdom is sometimes true. When all the hidden costs are added in, Sheri Richardson Stahl, director of Island Funeral Home in Beaufort, S.C., explained that “plenty of times, cremations are just as expensive as burials.” Unless “Direct Cremation” is chosen. In these cases, a cremation company is contacted online or by telephone. They pick up the body and deliver to the family a small can of cremated remains. Costs are often between $1,000 and $2,000. Including the plot, no burial will be that cheap, and direct cremations are becoming more common. That is unfortunate. Here is why: For some situations in life, it is certainly appropriate to go cheap. Why not save money, especially in hard economic times? But not for all areas of life. For example, I will do whatever is necessary to send my children to a decent school, rather than “going cheap” and putting them in a bad environment. Similarly, burial is worth the extra cash. As we have seen, burial is better for the environment. But the reasons are much deeper. The soul needs burial, as described above. Cremation causes it tremendous pain, more than we can imagine. Also, the body deserves burial. Note that Eastern religions usually require cremation. This is not surprising: they view the body as an enemy to be fought, and spirituality consists in separation from the physical. Their leaders are celibate and ascetic (think of the image of the guru on the mountaintop, completely detached from worldly life). According to the Torah, however, the body is not the enemy: I couldn’t give charity without my hands, speak words of prayer without my mouth, or run to do a good deed without my legs. While the soul must remain in control, the body is a partner, and deserves to be lovingly placed in the ground, not burnt like the garbage. Finally, the Jew wants burial. No matter how Jewishly aware or active a person was during their lifetime, choosing a traditional Jewish burial declares, “I may not have been a perfect Jew, but I’m a proud one. And I want to be buried as Jews have been for thousands of years. I owe it to my ancestors. I owe it to my descendants. I owe it to my body—and I owe it to my soul.” Doron Kornbluth is a bestselling author of “Why Be Jewish?”, “Raising Kids to LOVE Being Jewish,” and the newly released “Cremation or Burial? A Jewish View” (all by Mosaica Press). A renowned international lecturer, Doron speaks in over 50 cities a year to all types of audiences, on many subjects. Doron is also an inspirational licensed Israeli Tour Guide who offers fascinating and inspirational tours to individuals, families and groups. For more information, visit www.doronkornbluth.com or write him at doronkornbluth@gmail.com.
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come light the candles With us Celebrate Hanukah, a holiday of light, hope and dedication with Santana Row and the Silicon Valley Jewish community. Sunday, deCembeR 9, 2012 4:30-5:30 p.m. at Santana Row paRk new location, plenty of space! Info: www.jvalley.org ®
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a program of the
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ONGOING PROGRAMS SUNDAYS Mishpacha Sheli Emanu-El, 10:15 AM, 10/7, 11/4, 12/9, 1/13, 3/24, 4/28 A program designed for prekindergarten-aged children and their parents who would like a “whole family” experience. We offer an introduction to Jewish values, holidays, traditions and customs through singing, storytelling, art, movement, games and cooking. Children must be at least three years old by September 1, 2012. 292-0939 stephanie@templesanjose.org Knitzvah Levy Family Campus, 10:30 AM, 9/23 Volunteer knitters and crocheters take donated yarn and turn it into hats, scarves and other usable items for needy organizations. All skill levels are welcome from the beginner who wants to learn, to the experienced pro. Donations of yarns and other materials are greatly appreciated. cherier@jfssv.org, 556-0600 THURSDAYS Silicon Valley Beit Midrash Sinai, 9:30-11 AM beginning 9/6 Join Rabbi Joshua Berkenwald Thursdays for in-depth study of Jewish thought, belief, and practice. No fee; drop-ins are welcome; no experience necessary. office@sinai-sj.org, 264-8542 FRIDAYS Talmud Study led by Reuben Levy Beth David, 8:30 AM, 8/24, 8/31, 9/7, 9/14 The summer Talmud study group led by Reuben Levy meets again this summer to discuss Tractate Berakhot (Benedictions), which addresses blessings, prayers, rituals, and sanctification ceremonies. Join us for Talmud wisdom and lively discussion as we explore more of this Tractate in anticipation of the fall Talmud study group with Rabbi Pressman. Newcomers are welcome to join at any time. There is no registration fee, but donations to Beth David are welcome. adulted@beth-david.org, 257-3333
Alzheimer’s Family Support Group Shir Hadash, 10 AM, 9/14, 10/12, 11/9 Support Groups help to provide tools for caregiving such as sharing ideas and resources. They are most helpful for families and friends needing “helpful hints” because they are caring for or know a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. This group will be “caring for the caregiver,” offering support in a confidential setting. Open to the public. Drop-ins are welcome. nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 x5 SATURDAYS Tot Shabbat Beth David, 11 AM, 8/25, 9/8, 10/13, 11/10, 11/24 Ages 0-5. A fun, interactive parentled service. Open to the whole community. crocker@beth-david. org, 257-3333 Tot Shabbat Shir Hadash, 9:30 AM, 9/15, 11/17 nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 x5
UPCOMING EVENTS FRIDAY, AUGUST 24 Potluck Shabbat with Jews’ Next Dor San Jose, 7 PM The host will provide challah, wine, the main dishes, cutlery and plates. Please bring a vegetarian/ dairy appetizer, side, dessert, and/ or drink to share. 257-3333 JewsNextDor@beth-david.org SATURDAY, AUGUST 25 Outdoor Movie Night APJCC, 8 PM Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and a picnic, and join us for an evening movie on the JCC field. Free! We will be showing the classic summer adventure movie “The Goonies”. colinb@svjcc.org, 358-3636 SUNDAY, AUGUST 26 Potential Member Open House Shir Hadash, 10:30 AM nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 x5
datebook
All area codes are 408 unless otherwise noted. Rediscover CBD at the Summer Showcase Beth David, 2-4 PM Activities for all! Israeli dancing with Donna Frankel, Mini Melton seminar with Rabbi James, Jews’ Next Dor on hand to talk about colleges and careers for youth, mitzvah project for kids, art project, plus food and fun! Featuring Grammy-nominated Papa Hugs. Free if RSVP by August 20 at www.beth-david.org/ rsvp. After August 20, $5/adult (18 and over). 257-3333 rsadmin@beth-david.org
Kabbalat Shabbat at 6 p.m.; Shabbat Dinner at 7 p.m. Come experience the warmth of our Sinai community. Welcome Shabbat, take a tour of our beautiful campus, and learn about all that Congregation Sinai has to offer. Shabbat Dinner following Services. RSVP required by Tuesday, August 28. Half price for prospective members. Early Bird Special for Shabbat dinner: $20/adult (ages 13 and up), $5/child (age 5-12), Free for children under age 5, $54 maximum/family. office@sinai-sj.org, 264-8542
TUESDAY, AUGUST 28 Taste of Judaism Shir Hadash, 7 PM This interactive class provides an introduction to Jewish perspectives on ethics and values, study, community, holidays, and spirituality. The three-session class is intended for beginners, and is particularly appropriate for non-Jewish friends and relatives, Jews who have been disconnected from the Jewish community, and interfaith couples. Graduates of this class who seek more extensive study are welcome to attend the Introduction to Judaism classes beginning on November 6. 3581751 x7, patty@shirhadash.org
Shabbat Service with Guest Speaker Father Eddie Samaniego Shir Hadash, 8 PM The 13th annual Labor in the Pulpit (also known as Labor on the Bimah and Labor in the Minbar) comes to Shir Hadash as we join with others in over 120 religious services in Silicon Valley and more in over 130 cities across the nation. Voter registration information will be available as well as information on raising the minimum wage in San Jose. nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 x5
THURSDAY, AUGUST 30 Opening Your Soul: Spiritual Preparation for the High Holy Days Sinai, 7:30 PM With Rabbi Josh Berkenwald. Serious soul work is needed to make the most out of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Begin your High Holy Day journey through singing, contemplative study, and learning texts from the biblical, rabbinic and mystical traditions. Nonmembers are welcome. Free. office@sinai-sj.org, 264-98542
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 Rosh Hashanah Field Day APJCC, 1 PM Come experience a new kind of Rosh Hashanah family activity – a Rosh Hashanah Field Day. Through bobbing for apples, shofar blowing contests, and other fun activities, families can get in the spirit of the Jewish New Year! This year, join us for a special treat as we meet a bee keeper and his bees. It is all on the JCC field and all open to the community. rabbijames@svjcc.org, 357-7413 Mesibah Family Fun Day APJCC, 3 PM Mesibah is the Hebrew word for party! Children ages 2-10 years and their parents or caregivers, join us for a free party to celebrate the start of each Jewish month. jenessa@svjcc.org, 357-7411
FRIDAY, AUGUST 31 Back-to-Shul Open House and Shabbat Dinner Sinai, 5:30 PM Open House at 5:30 p.m. – Wine and Appetizers Reception; Musical www.jvalley.org
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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 Rit Lab APJCC, 7 PM Ritual objects in Judaism have different meanings for everyone. Make your personal Judaica more meaningful by creating it yourself! Join us for a series of workshops in which artistic expression deepens your understanding of Jewish ritual practice. rabbijames@svjcc.org, 357-7413 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 Dinner at Blossom Hill Park Los Gatos, 6 PM Please join Shir Hadash families in sharing a potluck Shabbat picnic dinner followed by services at 8 p.m. New and prospective members will be special guests at this event. Please bring a dish to share for 10-12 – please no pork or shellfish, and no combined meat and dairy dishes. Please let us know your name, phone, and number of people attending. 3581751 x5 nadine@shirhdash.org SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 Community Shabbat Service – Preparing for the High Holy Days Shir Hadash, 10:30 AM Just as a meal is enriched by the preparations made in advance in cooking it, so too our experience of the Jewish holidays is deepened when we have had the opportunity to prepare ourselves in mind and spirit. At this, the only Elul service this year at which we are not celebrating a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, we will take time to reflect on our inner preparations for the coming period of reflection and repentance. In particular, we will look at some Jewish texts on the theme of change. What helps and hinders us when we attempt to make changes in our lives? 358-1751 x5 nadine@shirhadash.org Tot Shabbat at Wildwood Park Saratoga, 10:30 AM rabbilevenberg@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 x3 Book Discussion Group Beth David, approx 1:30 p.m. “The Aleppo Codex: a True Story of Obsession, Faith, and the Pursuit of an Ancient Bible” by Matti Friedman; led by Harry Cornbleet. miriammarr@stanfordalumni.org, (650) 968-7138
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 All Faith House Work Days Shir Hadash, 8 AM nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 x5 Book Group Shir Hadash, 10:45 AM Share your love of books with Jewish themes and ideas as well as your desire to discuss them by participating in the Shir Hadash Book Group. 358-1751 x5 nadine@shirhadash.org Football Opening Weekend Kickoff Party APJCC, 12:30 PM Watch the first 49ers game of the season on the biggest screen in the South Bay! We’ll use our giant screen in the JCC Auditorium. Pizza, beer and soft drinks for sale. Free snacks. Free KidsZone in the gymnasium. jenny@svjcc.org, 357-7430 Mother’s Circle – High Holy Day Highlights Shir Hadash, 12:30 PM This unique prep class is a free, fun, and interactive session that will prepare parents who are new to Judaism to celebrate Rosh Hashanah and honor Yom Kippur in a meaningful way with their families. 358-1751 x4, rabbiaron@shirhadash.org APJCC Annual Meeting Levy Family Campus, 7 PM JCC members are invited to the JCC’s Annual Meeting. Elect new board members, receive a copy of the Annual Report, and hear reports from the JCC board president and JCC executives. jenny@svjcc.org, 357-7430 WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Grief During the Days of Awe Shir Hadash, 7 PM Focus on holiday-related grief experiences and on tools for coping and finding comfort during the Days of Awe. There will be an opportunity to share our stories and learn from each other as well as from Jewish traditions around mourning and healing. 358-1751 x5, nadine@shirhadash.org
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 Freilache Menschen Program with David Singer ~ Learn about Improv Shir Hadash, 11:30 AM What is Improv? How is it done? Why is it done? Answer these questions and many more. Guests will be invited to try it out, but those who choose not to can just watch and laugh! 358-1751 x2, shanda@shirhadash.org FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 Shabbat 2.0 Service Shir Hadash, 8 PM nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 x5 SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 Tea and Torah Emanu-El, 9 AM The Egalitarian Tea and Torah Program (following Shabbat morning Minyan or afternoon Mincha service), includes study of the week’s Torah portion over tea and noshes. This study utilizes commentaries from a female perspective, including the URJ Torah: A Women’s Commentary. We will learn about the history, thought process, and fast evolving freedom of expression of Jewish women with a contemporary Reform Judaism approach. Open and welcoming to all who would like to learn. 292-0939, stephanie@templesanjose.org SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 Cantor Andres Levy APJCC, 7 PM Come enjoy an evening of beautiful Jewish music. Cantor Levy received his degree from Rabbinic Seminary in Buenos Aries and is a member of the Cantor Assembly of the United States. Presale tickets are $10/ member and $15/nonmember. At the door is $20 General Admission for all. For further information and tickets please contact Lisa Ceile, lisacg@svjcc.org, 357-7492 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 Decorate the Sukkah APJCC, 3 PM You’re invited to our annual Sukkah decorating event. The Sukkah is a harvest booth that we construct for the autumn festival of Sukkot. Come make decorations and hang them up, bring your
Rosh Hashanah greeting cards to hang on a wall, and enjoy a snack in the Sukkah. Snacks and art supplies provided. Everyone is welcome. This event is especially suitable for families with preschool or elementary school age. rabbijames@svjcc.org, 357-7413 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 Kabbalat Shabbat Lunches (age 55+) APJCC, Noon Adults ages 55+ are invited to this once-a-month get-together for seniors in the APJCC Auditorium. Enjoy a catered hot lunch followed by entertainment. lisacg@svjcc.org, 357-7492 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 4 How to Parent Jewish Tween/ Teens Emanu-El, 11:30 AM This fabulous class is co-taught by Sooze Protter, MA, Bay Area teen specialist, and Rabbi Dana Magat. Parents of teens often need help and support as they navigate the rocky road of raising young adolescents. This class will provide an informational, humorous way of discussing all aspects of raising Jewish kids from 9 years to 17 years old. Topics will cover tween/teen brain development, communication, school motivation, dating, siblings and other general questions about young teens’ communication skills. Discussion will include issues of sexuality, drugs, friends, school, grades, and more. Gain insight, ideas and get the boost of energy that all parents of young teens need. $10/family/ class or $50/family for the class series. 292-0939, stephanie@templesanjose.org Sukkot Party APJCC, 4 PM Celebrate the autumn holiday of Sukkot in the JCC’s Sukkah (harvest booth). Enjoy dinner, games, singing, and dancing as we celebrate outside under the stars. If you’d like to participate in the Sukkot singing, bring an instrument! Everyone is welcome. The barbecue chicken dinner is provided. rabbijames@svjcc.org, 357-7413
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GBLT Dinner in the Sukkah Shir Hadash, 6:30 PM nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 x5 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 5 Sukkot Sleepover Shir Hadash, 6:15 PM Join Rabbis Levenberg and Lobel and other Religious School students in grades 3 through 6 for Family Pizza Dinner, No Shush Shabbat Service, and then stay for a sleepover in the Sukkah. Parents will pick up their children on Saturday at 9 a.m. 358-1751 x2, shanda@shirhadash.org SUNDAY, OCTOBER 7 Sisterhood Program with Author Cheryl Sternman Rule Shir Hadash, 9:45 AM Sisterhood presents guest speaker Cheryl Sternman Rule, author of the cookbook, “Ripe: A Fresh, Colorful Approach to Fruits and Vegetables” (One of NPR’s Top 10 Summer Cookbooks of 2012). nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 x5
What is Simchat Torah? Emanu-El, 11:30 AM Join Rabbi Magat and explore how Simchat Torah is connected to the High Holy Days and how we can relate to it from a modern place. This class is free and open to the public. 292-0939, stephanie@ templesanjose.org Teen Fitness and Learning Program Shmirat Haguf APJCC, 3 PM Bring your tent and sleeping bag as we spend the night at beautiful Balaban Ranch in San Jose. Teens will learn survival training, learn about the holiday of Sukkot, and have a night of food and fun. CJLL@apjcc.org, 358-3636 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9 Hebrew Prayer Fluency Shir Hadash, 5 PM This class is for those who can read Hebrew but want to be able to read the prayers more fluently. For those students who finish, there is the option continuing with Rabbi Aron and Cantor Felder-Levy to become an adult Bar/Bat Mitzvah. patty@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 x7
Start the New Year Right! A ProgrAm of the Jewish federAtion of silicon VAlley The PJ Library® program nurtures meaningful experiences for children by sending Jewish books to your home on a monthly basis - for free! Jewish children six months to seven years old who live in the South Bay are eligible to receive highquality, age-appropriate, colorful books to keep and enjoy, without cost or obligation.
To enroll, visit: www.jvalley.org/pjlibrary or call 408-357-7509
Thank you to our generous local funders
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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 11 Freilache Menschen Luncheon & Program Shir Hadash, 11:30 AM shanda@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 x2 Blood Drive APJCC, Noon Give the gift of life. Donate blood with the American Red Cross in the APJCC Auditorium. Sign up at www.redcrossblood.org, sponsor code APJCC. rachelr@svjcc.org, 357-3714 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 13 Book Discussion Group Beth David, approx 1:30 p.m. “The Pity of It All: Jews in Germany 1743-1933” by Amos Elon; led by Steve Levin. miriammarr@stanfordalumni.org, (650) 968-7138 SUNDAY, OCTOBER 14 Aristides de Sousa Mendes Street Dedication & Film Beth David, 1 PM The entire community is invited to a Street Dedication in honor of Righteous Among the Nations, Aristides de Sousa Mendes, the Catholic Portuguese diplomat who saved 30,000 people during WWII, including 12,000 Jews, by issuing visas in defiance of his government’s orders. Free and open to the community. Refreshments will be served. abebromberg@hotmail.com, 257-3333 Singles Wine & Cheese GetTogether Shir Hadash, 5 PM Singles 40-70 are invited to Congregation Shir Hadash for wine and cheese and an opportunity to meet other members of the Jewish community. 358-1751 x5, nadine@shirhadash.org Animal Celebration Sinai, 11:30 AM Blessings of appreciation for animals – celebrate our pets! This family-friendly service will take place outdoors in the courtyard with our pets. All pets are invited in carriers, cages, on leashes, and in bowls. Playpens for large and small dogs will be provided. Family and animal-friendly service followed by catered luncheon
with guest speaker from the Youth Science Institute at noon in the Social Hall. office@sinai-sj.org, 264-8542 MONDAY, OCTOBER 15 Monday at the Movies! APJCC, 1 PM| Come experience Mel Brooks’s classics “The Producers”, “History of the World, Part 1” and “Blazing Saddles”! Light snacks will be served. Suggested donation $5. lisacg@svjcc.org, 357-7492 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18 Woman’s Study Group with Rabbi Aron Shir Hadash, 10:45 AM The book will be “The Norton Anthology of Jewish American Literature” by Jules Chametzky, John Felstiner, Hilene Flanzbaum, and Kathryn Hellerstein. 358-1751 x7, patty@shirhadash.org Visiting Author: Joshua Buchin APJCC, 7 PM The Jewish people have, throughout history, moved from place to place. Many factors have inspired these journeys – necessity, persecution, and the hope of finding a better life. “Tefilat HaDerech: The Traveler’s Prayer” has traditionally offered comfort to those embarking on life’s journeys. This beautifullyillustrated book highlights many of the historical Jewish migrations, while presenting a child-friendly adaptation of this meaningful prayer. jenessa@svjcc.org, 357-7411 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 19 Friday Night Live & New Member Welcome with Choir Shir Hadash, 8 PM nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 x5 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 20 Shabbat Service – Noah Program Happy Hollow, 9:30 AM Join Rabbi Levenberg and other young friends and families for a quick breakfast nosh and then enter Happy Hollow Park for a fun Noah Tot Shabbat service at 10:30 a.m. Families are invited to bring a picnic lunch for themselves to have outside Happy Hollow after the service. shanda@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 x2 27
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 21 “Cross Training for Couples” sponsored by the Caring Committee Shir Hadash, 9:45 AM By habit, design, or skill set, most of us divide responsibilities in our relationships. When there is a change in circumstances because of separation, illness or even death, a partner can be at a loss in assuming new roles and duties. This seminar gives couples of all ages, gay or straight, an opportunity to discuss their current division of responsibilities and how to best prepare for a new challenge. Topics to be covered are finance, household maintenance, social life, and preplanning. 358-1751 x5, nadine@shirhadash.org Kindergarten Open House SPHDS, 10 AM Math, Science, Language Arts, Hebrew, PE, Art and Music. It is a full day for our Lower School Students! 738-3060, barbara.goldstein@sphds.org 2012 AIPAC South Bay Community Event Oshman Family JCC, Palo Alto, 6 PM This is the premiere pro-Israel community event. (415) 989-4140, sf_office@aipac.org TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23 Ben Sidran APJCC, 7 PM Although best known in some circles for writing Steve Miller’s hit song “Space Cowboy”, Ben Sidran is more widely recognized as the host of National Public Radio’s landmark jazz series “Jazz Alive”, and as the host of VH-1 television’s “New Visions” series. Sidran is currently completing an album of Bob Dylan songs and working on a text. lisacg@svjcc.org, 357-7492 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27 Community Learner’s Shabbat Service Shir Hadash, 10:30 AM nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751
panelist for NPR’s “Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me” where she gets to match wits with some of our nation’s leading pundits. Paula is also an author and lecturer. She wrote her first book for Random House, “There Is Nothing in This Book That I Meant To Say” (with foreward by Mary Tyler Moore) and is at work on her second tome for the same imprint. 18 and over. $20/APJCC members and donors to Federation’s Annual Campaign (until 10/10); $25 General (until 10/25); VIP $50; At the door $30 lisacg@svjcc.org, 357-7492 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1 The Shabbat Service Revealed Sinai, 7:30 PM Standing, sitting, bowing, rising on your toes – do you ever feel like you are not sure what you should be doing with your body during Shabbat services? Awaken your spirits through exploration of the “dance” of Jewish prayer. Nonmembers welcome. office@ sinai-sj.org, 264-8542 Visiting Author: Joy Ladin APJCC, 7 PM Professor Jay Ladin made headlines around the world when, after years of teaching literature at Yeshiva University, he returned to the Orthodox Jewish campus as a woman—Joy Ladin. jenessa@svjcc.org, 357-7411 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 4 “Building Day” in partnership with Habitat for Humanity Sinai, 8 AM Experts will teach volunteers the skills needed for the afternoon session. Construction workers training from 9-12, and building from 1-4. socialaction@sinai-sj.org 264-8542 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 8 Freilache Menschen Luncheon & Program Shir Hadash, 11:30 AM shanda@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 10 Community Shabbat ~ SIGD Shir Hadash, 10:30 AM Have you ever heard of this Ethiopian Jewish holiday? SIGD celebrates the Jewish covenant in receiving the Torah at Mount Sinai. 358-1751, nadine@shirhadash.org
Book Discussion Group Beth David, approx 1:30 p.m. “In the Garden of Beasts: Love, Terror, and an American Family in Hitler’s Berlin”, by Erik Larsen; led by Miriam Palgon. miriammarr@stanfordalumni.org, (650) 968-7138 Rabbi Martin Weiner ~ Movies & Midrash Part 2 Shir Hadash, 8 PM Rabbi Martin Weiner presents an evening of film clips on Midrashic themes, drawn from some of the best known and loved movies of our time. nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 x5 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 11 Book Group Shir Hadash, 10:30 AM The book for this meeting is: “My Russian Grandmother and Her American Vacuum Cleaner” by Meir Shalev. 358-1751 x5, nadine@shirhadash.org MONDAY, NOVEMBER 12 Schmooze with the Author: Racelle Rosett APJCC, 7 PM In her debut collection “Moving Waters”, award-winning writer Racelle Rosett explores the unexpected role of ancient ritual as it informs the lives of members of a Reform Jewish community in Hollywood. Set against the landscape of contemporary Los Angeles, Rosett’s stories help us to know these characters whose losses and struggles are deeply felt, in each story revealing the importance of faith in a seemingly faithless place. jenessa@svjcc.org, 357-7411 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 18 Blood Drive in conjunction with Stanford Medical Center Los Gatos, 8 AM nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 19 Monday at the Movies! APJCC, 1 PM Come experience Mel Brooks’s classics “The Producers”, “History of the World, Part 1” and “Blazing Saddles”! Light snacks will be served. Suggested donation $5. lisacg@svjcc.org, 357-7492 TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 20 Interfaith Thanksgiving Service St. Mary’s Church, 7:30 PM nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 x5 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30 Shabbat Service with guest Speaker John Rothman Shir Hadash, 8 PM Join Rabbi Aron and Cantor Felder-Levy and welcome guest speaker John Rothman, “Implications of the Recent Election on the Middle East.” nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 x5 SUNDAY, JANUARY 27 Jewbilee! Levy Family Campus, 1-8 PM Come celebrate Jewish life and learning and be a part of the fourth annual Jewbilee! Join Bay Area Rabbis, scholars, artists, and educators for a full afternoon of classes, programs, and performances. $10/adult, $7/child. 357-7413, www.SVJCC.org/jewbilee Have an event to add to the calendar? Submit it at www.jvalley.org! Questions about upcoming events or the community calendar? Contact amanda@jvalley.org or (408) 357-7503.
Fish Fry Fiesta Sinai, 5 PM Please join us for our 6th annual Fabulous Fun Fish Fry Fiesta Festival! Serving line-caught Rockfish from Monterey Bay. Reservations are required by Tuesday, November 13. office@sinai-sj.org, 264-8542
An Evening with Paula Poundstone APJCC, 8 PM Paula’s spontaneity and intelligent humor makes her the perfect 28
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SIMCHAS By Andrea Cohen Greyber
BIRTHS Grandparents Israel & Judith Krongold of Congregation Beth David are delighted to announce the birth of Abraham Zvi Krongold who will be called Avi to Chani & David Krongold of Ramat Beit Shemesh. Avi was born on May 26 and was named for his maternal great-grandfather. He weighed 7 pounds. He joins big sisters Batsheva, 14, Tamar, 12, Tzipporah, 8, Miri, 6, Leah, 20 months and a very happy big brother Simcha, 10! Ayelet Sonia Dickman, daughter of Hagar & Michael Dickman was born on June 5. She weighed 7 pounds 10 ounces. She is the baby sister of Uri, 9, and Shai and Tal Dickman, 7. She is the granddaughter of Beth David congregants Eleanor & Lloyd Dickman. Ayelet was named for Lloyd’s mother. Cousins Jenny & Brooke Barnett are delighted to have a girl cousin! Joseph Yishai Kamchi was born on June 23 to Jay & Israela Kamchi of Sunnyvale. He weighed 7 pounds 14 ounces and was 21 inches long. He is the grandson of Beverly & Jerry Kamchi of Chandler, AZ and Yona & Eli Sternheim of Palo Alto. The bris was held at the home of his maternal grandparents in Palo Alto and the mohel was Rabbi Moshe Trager; Rabbi David Booth did the naming. Grandparents Jack Moore & Bonnie Slavitt Moore of Congregation Beth David are pleased to announce the birth of their latest granddaughter, Racheal Marie Olenick who was
born on July 13. She is the daughter of Jessica & Greg Olenick of Canton, OH. She weighed 6 pounds and 5 ounces and was 21 inches long. Racheal is the little sister to Sam, 9 ½ and Rebecca, 7. Her other grandparents are Bernie Berman of Akron, OH, Sally Olenick of Canton, OH and Mike & Jeanne Olenick of Canton, OH.
CALLED TO THE TORAH Shauna Talmoud, daughter of Samira & Shahrokh Talmoud, was called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on June 23 at Congregation Sinai. She will be in the eighth grade at Bret Harte Middle School this fall. She is the younger sister of Tina who attends West Valley College. Shauna enjoys Persian singing and dancing and also attends cheerleading classes. For her mitzvah project, she collected canned goods for a homeless shelter and will be visiting there at a later date. Her grandparents Samuel & Parvin Talmoud of Fresno and her grandfather Houshang Banayan of Los Angeles and uncle and aunt Shahrokh & Farima Nabat also of Los Angeles and many cousins were excited to be with her for this special occasion. Eliana Marks, daughter of Ilene & Ted Marks, was called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on June 30 at Congregation Sinai. She will enter the eighth grade at Almaden Country School where her brother Zack is in the fifth grade. She enjoys swimming (breast and free) and reading. For her mitzvah project, she collected blankets for the humane society and donated money to the Lucille Packard Hospital in Palo Alto. She was thrilled that her four
grandparents could attend. Morris & Connie Marks flew in from Princeton, NJ and Erwin & Natalie Sluss came from Ocala, FL. Eitan Myron, son of Michele & Dave Myron of San Jose, was called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on July 7 at Congregation Sinai. He will be in the eighth grade at Yavneh Day School. He enjoys break-dancing, playing guitar and participating in sports at school. His younger brothers, Nadav, Ari and Kovi are also students at Yavneh. Eitan was pleased that his grandparents Art & Marilynn Segal of Cerritos and Phyllis Myron of Northridge and many aunts and uncles were able to celebrate with him. For his mitzvah project, Eitan volunteered at InnVision, a woman’s shelter and at the San Jose Family Shelter. He hopes to volunteer again in the near future. Tobiah Passett, son of Lori Passett and Andrew Passett of Sunnyvale, was called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on August 4 at Congregation Beth David. He is the older brother of Isaac Passett, 11, and both of them attend Peterson Middle School. Tobiah enjoys soccer, swimming, video games, reading, movies and football. For his mitzvah project, he worked with Mazon and also with the Sunnyvale Community Shelter. He set up collection bins at Beth David, harvested five bags of oranges which he took to the rotating shelter at Beth David. He also made gift bags for the homeless men who stay at the synagogue; these bags held magazines, water, oranges and pretzels. Tobiah’s proud grandparents are Rachel Philbrick of Belmont, ME and Margery and Barry Passett of Chevy Chase, MD.
WEDDINGS Abby Berkowitz and Nico Feria were married on July 1 at Harper Farm, near Pescadero, CA. They met as students at the University of California at Santa Cruz where Nico is currently employed. Abby
is an elementary school teacher in Santa Clara County. Following their honeymoon in Kauai, the joyful couple will be living in Campbell. The proud parents are Mindy & Allan Berkowitz of San Jose, Jason & Kathy Goodman of Springfield, OR and Ed & Connie Feria of Windsor, CA.
SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENTS Congratulations to Karen S. Krongold, daughter of Judith & Israel Krongold, who was awarded her PsyD in Psychology from the California Institute for Integral Studies in San Francisco. She did her undergraduate work at the University of California at Santa Cruz where she earned a degree in History. Karen was in the first graduating class from South Peninsula Hebrew Day School. Shira Samuelson, daughter of Merle Kahn & Larry Samuelson, entered the Synopsis Silicon Valley Science Championship. Her project was “Can Children Perceive When Other Children are Truly Smiling?” Shira came in first place for eighth graders in Behavioral Science in the County Fair. She won the American Psychological Association’s Award for Outstanding Psychological Project by a Middle School Student in Santa Clara County and she was one of 77 projects out of 800 which entered the county fair to qualify to advance to the state science fair. In the State Fair she came in 4th place in Behavioral Sciences in the Junior Division in the Behavioral Sciences division. Her mentors were Mindy Penzias Dirks, PhD and Mr. David Oliver, her science teacher. Please send announcements to Andrea Greyber agreyber@yahoo.com or (408) 377-6224.
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sphds graduates The SPHDS graduating class of 2012 included the following students: Sarah Eylon Reut Fisher Elyasaf Gellis Moshe Ioffe Michal Nazarian Rebecca Paktor Nathaniel Ravkin Ilan Scheinkmen Judith Sherbin Illana Zerbib Many of the school’s graduates are attending Meira Academy and Kehillah Jewish High School, both in Palo Alto. Others will be going to Denver Academy of Torah and yeshivat “Kiryat Herzog” in Bnai-Baraq, Israel. Who would believe that time has passed so quickly that those children who entered Kindergarten in 2003 are graduating already? It seems like only yesterday that they were running around the kindergarten play area, staying behind the “red line.” Over the years they have “traveled” to the Lower School wing to eventually wind up with lockers and Middle School classes. They culminated their education with the 8th Grade Trip to Israel. With their strong background in Jewish studies and Hebrew language, the class visited parts of Israel rich with Jewish heritage. Perhaps one of the highlights of the trip was welcoming Shabbat at the Kotel. As recalled by David Kulka, who chaperoned the current class, the mood was quite festive. The class was joined by two of their classmates who had left the previous year with their families to return to Israel. To the delight of everyone, the group joined with a large number of Israeli soldiers to welcome in Shabbat with song and dance. Now the class members will go their separate ways to different schools throughout the world. Hopefully, some will return to talk about their experience to the younger students. We wish them well wherever they go. South Peninsula Hebrew Day School (SPHDS) is located in Sunnyvale, CA. The mission of SPHDS is to provide excellent Jewish and General Studies education for its students and to instill a love for Torah, the Jewish People, and Israel in the children and community. Founded in 1972, SPHDS has evolved into what is best described as modern Orthodox. It embraces the technological and multi-cultural aspects of the geographic area in which we live, yet continues to adhere to traditional observances of Judaism. It is a member of the Torah U’Mesorah organization and encourages service to the Jewish community and a love of Israel. SPHDS equally encourages its parents to be involved in the life of the school and the community. For more information on the school, please contact Headmaster Dr. Allen Selis at (408) 738-3060 or headmaster@sphds.org.
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yavneh graduates Congratulations Yavneh Class of 2012! By Joy Null 2012 marks a special milestone for Yavneh Day School as we celebrate the fifth middle school graduating class. Congratulations are in order for a special group of talented and bright young adults as they continue their journey to a variety of public and private high schools. This year, we also recognize our first middle school graduating class of 2008 who graduated high school this year. These high schools include Los Gatos High, Harker Academy, Kehilla High, and the IB program at Andrew Hill. Now, as this special group of young adults head off to college, they have been accepted to many top institutions such as: Harvey Mudd, UC Berkeley, University of Southern California, Brown University, UC Santa Barbara, Cal Poly SLO, UC Davis, George Washington University, University of Kansas, and a gap year program in Israel. Yavneh Day School provides academic excellence in General and Judaic studies within a strong community where each child is celebrated and challenged. Its students demonstrate leadership, have a passion for learning and embrace social responsibility. For more information, please contact Head of School Steve Bogad at (408) 984-6700 or steve@yavnehdayschool.org.
Yavneh’s 2012 Graduating Class: (l-r) Elissa Cady, Shira KahnSamuelson, Fay Citron-Pousty, Melissa Malter, Joshua Levy, Sydney Kohut, Florencia Laber, Itay Barylka, Talia Fishbin, Leila Ullmann, Jonathan Hochberg, Leigh Walaszczyk, Tomer Gotesdyner
Yavneh Science Teacher awarded fellowship at Stanford While other teachers are enjoying the summer sun, 165 science teachers are toiling away in universities and companies, honing their research skills. David Oliver, science educator at Yavneh Day School, was selected out of over 400 teacher applicants to serve in one of the 165 Industry Initiatives for Science and Math Education (IISME) Summer Fellowships. The IISME Summer Fellowship Program is a unique professional development opportunity for educators to gain hands-on math, science, and technology experience while working side by side with the Bay Area’s leading industry, research, and university professionals (www. iisme.org). This program places teachers into highperformance work sites for the summer, working fulltime for eight weeks and completing a project for their sponsors. David Oliver was selected as one of the program’s Stanford Teaching Fellows. He is working on a novel DNA synthesis method at the Mark Kay lab in the Stanford Department of Pediatrics Cancer Research Center. As well as carrying out the research, he is participating in talks and seminars on new exciting developments in science and how they can apply in the classroom. Furthermore, the program includes unique hands-on labs that have the opportunity to translate to the Yavneh science program. Mr. Oliver comments: “While the learning curve has been steep, the overall program is exciting, challenging and very rewarding. I look forward to bringing what I have learned to the classroom in the coming year.” www.jvalley.org
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obituaries NATHAN MONCHARSH May 26, 1922 – June 9, 2012
Nathan Moncharsh was born in Szydlov, Poland and died in Campbell days after his ninetieth birthday. He survived the Lodz Ghetto, (1939-1944) deportation to Auschwitz and the death march from Auschwitz to Bergen-Belsen (1945). He spent several peaceful years in Amberg, Germany after the war and met his wife Rachel there. Following the long sea journey to San Francisco, Nathan was joined in the Goldene Medine by three of his surviving siblings, Bella, Abe and David. Two other siblings, Salek and Sonia, found their way to Israel. Nathan worked in San Francisco for Koret in the textile industry; on weekends he collected and then sold “junk” from homes and estate sales; he then purchased and managed a grocery store with his brother-in-law Reuben. Ever searching for a job that would allow him to set his own hours, he became a general contractor and began remodeling the homes of friends and family. He gave deeply to several synagogues in San Francisco; he was active in Beth Shalom, Adath Israel and Ner Tamid during his years in San Francisco. He gave his time, ingenuity and tenacity in an effort to help these institutions of Torah grow. His fundraising energy was put to work for Keren Kayemet in hopes of making the country he considered a second home bloom. Whether his advice was requested or not, Nathan shared it as well as his accumulated wisdom, his carefully saved wealth and his deep appreciation of the West Coast. Before retiring and lovingly tending a bountiful vegetable garden, he raised, together with his wife, Rachel, three loving children, Lottie, Esther and Jacob, six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. They will ensure that his memory will be for a blessing. Donations in his memory may be made to JFCS Holocaust Center (Francis Goldsmith Bldg., 2245 Post Street, San Francisco 94115) or Pathways Hospice (585 North Mary Avenue, Sunnyvale, 94085).
BEATRICE CORALNIK PAPO November 28, 1913 – May 26, 2012
Beatrice Coralnik Papo was born in Berlin, Germany and spent her early years as the itinerant child of revolutionaries friendly with Russian leaders like Leon Trotsky, on whose knee she sat as he argued political theory with her mother, economist Judith Grunfeld. After graduating from the Sorbonne in 1937, she moved to the United States where she married Joseph M. Papo who ran several Jewish federations and social service agencies in NY, Maine and Minnesota.
In the 1950’s, Beatrice became the first Jewish caseworker at the Sacramento Children’s Home and, as assistant director, she changed the culture of the state’s oldest such institution to reflect the more informal tone of a “home” instead of an institution. Her children followed in her footsteps in social service. Ruth, born in 1941, became a social worker; Michael, born in 1942, became director of the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley and then of the San Francisco-based Koret Foundation. After both Beatrice and Joseph retired, Beatrice helped Joseph organize and edit his book “Sephardim in Twentieth Century America,” 1987, published in collaboration with the Judah L. Magnes Museum. She then spent 15 years translating the essays of her father, Abraham Coralnik, a columnist for New York’s Der Tog, and former editor of Theodor Herzl’s journal, The World. In her 90s, two volumes of her translations, “Across the Great Divide,” were published. Beatrice is survived by her children, Ruth Schifrin (Ari) and Michael Papo (Dorothy); grandchildren Daniel and Debra Schifrin and Daro Papo, Joel Papo and Sharon Papo and great-grandchildren, Aviv and Lior Schifrin and Skyler Papo-Weiss. Contributions in her memory can be made to the Beatrice C. Papo Children’s Support Fund through Berkeley’s Congregation Netivot Shalom.
ELLEN RUTH POWERS November 12, 1921 – July 22, 2012
Ellen Ruth Powers, a long-time resident of San Jose and member of Congregation Sinai, died unexpectedly while tending her garden. She was born in Berlin, Germany and was a survivor of the Holocaust. Fleeing Germany with her mother and father in 1939, she spent the next eight years as a refugee in Shanghai, where she met and married Edward A. Sonnenfeld. When the war ended, the couple emmigrated to the United States, while her mother and father moved to Israel. Pregnant with her daughter Susan, she and her husband settled in Los Angeles where a few of her relatives lived. Proud to be an American, she worked to lose her German accent and embrace her current country. In 1953, Ellen-Ruth, who by then had two more daughters, was divorced from her first husband. The mother of three supported her daughters and herself by beading moccasins at the kitchen table while she attended night school. After years of studying and working as a draftsman, she got a position in the fledgling aerospace industry. She met and married Bernard David Powers and a son was soon to follow. When their marriage dissolved, Ellen-Ruth again worked tirelessly in an effort to support her four children. By the time she retired at the age of 68 to spend more time with her grandson Philip, whose birth she eagerly awaited, Ellen-Ruth had worked as an engineer at Lockheed Aerospace with a high-security government clearance. Despite hardships and heartache, Ellen-Ruth never lost her love of life. She was a truly amazing woman who loved to dance, shop, travel, attend
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Shakespeare plays, and much more. Most of all, she loved to spend time with her family and was especially proud to be a great-grandmother. By the end of her life she had become active in Holocaust remembrance, speaking at schools and synagogues. She loved and was loved by many. She is remembered for her sense of humor and her vivacious spirit. Ellen-Ruth leaves behind her children Susan Brooks, Judy Powers, Linda (Jon) Detmers, and Brent (Robin) Powers; her five grandchildren, Angela, Brian, Philip, Judah and Asher; her two great-grandchildren, Cyrus and Alyson; and many friends. She was predeceased by her daughter, Victoria Sonnenfeld, who died as an infant in Shanghai. She will be missed by all who knew her. Funeral services were held July 27 in Los Gatos. They were presided over by Rabbi Aaron Cunin of Chabad and Rabbi Philip Ohriner of Congregation Beth David. Contributions in her memory can be made to Silicon Valley Holocaust Survivors Association, 6120 Corte De La Reina, San Jose, CA 95120.
Have you recently lost a loved one? Please send obituaries and pictures (in JPEG or PDF format) to Andrea Greyber, agreyber@yahoo.com or phone her at (408) 377-6224.
Home of Peace Cemetery and Mausoleum Founded 1853
Owned and Operated by Temple Emanu-El South Bay Area’s only Jewish-owned Cemetery, Mausoleum and Columbarium Pre-Need Terms
Bob Basuino, Administrator
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DAVID WOLIN
April 22, 1921 – June 29, 2012 David Wolin of Cupertino passed away peacefully in his sleep from pneumonia. He was one of four brothers born and raised in Brooklyn, NY where he helped with the family business. He served in the Signal Corp in Europe and Asia during WWII. After the war, he studied physics and engineering at City College of New York and MIT. He married Betty Jacobs in 1949, started a family, and made the move west to California in 1961. He had a nearly 30-year career as a reliability engineer in the aerospace industry at Lockheed Missiles & Space Co. After that he enjoyed a second 20-year career as a highly respected instructional assistant at DeAnza College’s EDC, imparting his love of learning to many young minds. Dave was an extremely devoted husband, encouraging and entertaining father and supportive (great) grandfather. He is survived by his wife Betty, daughters Susan Woodside and Nancy Sheets (Robert), granddaughters Jenna Hutchison (Allen) and Bonnie Sheets, grandsons Daniel and Micah Babinski and great-grandson Tommy Hutchison.
We don’t make a profit. We make a difference. Our non-profit status has its benefits. Particularly for the dozens of community organizations we support: local synagogues and their education programs, a camp to help families deal with grief, seniors’ programs and many, many others. At the end of the day, it’s a bottom line we’re proud of. So we ask that you consider Sinai Memorial Chapel – Chevra Kadisha in times of grief, as a way of honoring life.
Peninsula Office 777 Woodside Road, Suite C Redwood City (408) 297-3636 FD 1830
An avid Brooklyn Dodger and basketball fan, Dave enjoyed butter pecan ice cream, stuffed cabbage, watermelon, slide rules, chess and solving the daily Jumble and playing Jeopardy. He will long be remembered as a math guru, a punster and for his wit and gentle wisdom. “Do the math.” Donations may be made to Foothill-DeAnza Foundation, “In Memory of David Wolin, EDC” 12345 El Monte Road, Los Altos, CA 94022 or foundation.fhda.edu.
Wayne A. Rose FDIC insured Pre-need funeral arrangements available.
Peninsula-South Bay Director wrose@sinaichapel.org FDR 979
Samuel J. Salkin, Executive Director, FDR 3371
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guest writer 2012 - A Year of Tax Planning Opportunity By Michael Gilfix This year, 2012, is a remarkable year. In all of the hoopla about the Affordable Care Act and “taxing the 1%,” virtually no attention has been paid to the unprecedented opportunity to protect millions of dollars from exposure to estate tax. This opportunity disappears on December 31, 2012. Far more importantly, you can take advantage of this opportunity now - without dying. This year, for the first time in America tax history, you can give away up to $5 million without paying any gift tax. This enables you to permanently remove $5 million from your estate for the benefit and protection of your children and grandchildren. Next year, the limit plummets to only $1 million per person. Worse, the estate tax rate dramatically increases from the current 35% level to 55% and sometimes 60%. For a married couple with a $4 million estate, over $1 million in tax can be avoided by proactive planning. For a couple with a $10 million estate, over $4 million in ultimate estate tax exposure can be avoided. In my new book, “Beat Estate Tax Forever: The Unprecedented $5 Million Opportunity in 2012”, I summarize the many planning strategies that present themselves. Among other things, it is possible to give up ownership of such assets as rental properties without giving up control. It is also possible to effectively give away all or most of a particular asset while retaining the income. Could Congress pass new legislation and prevent the estate and gift tax protection from dropping so precipitously and dangerously to only $1 million per person? A definite maybe. It is hard to imagine that any tax legislation will become law before the November election. After the election, there are precious few days for Congress to address tax legislation, which is of the most contentious of battle ground issues. Inaction by Congress means that the level of protection indeed drops to only $1 million per person. What should you do? If you are single and your estate exceeds $1 million - or if you are married and your estate exceeds $2 million - talk with your estate tax advisor about steps you can take to avoid estate tax. Create dynasty trusts for your children so inherited assets can also be protected from estate tax for the benefit of your grandchildren. Consider gifts or bequests to a tax-exempt organization like the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley. This removes assets from your taxable estate. This is particularly appropriate for retirement accounts, such as IRAs and 401Ks. Over 80% of IRA funds can be lost to a confirmation of income and estate taxes. It is always the time to plan for asset protection and tax avoidance. This year, 2012, presents what are likely to be once in a lifetime opportunities. Michael Gilfix is a 1973 Stanford Law School graduate and the founding principal of Gilfix & La Poll Associates in Palo Alto, California. Gilfix & La Poll Associates specializes in Estate Planning, Trust Law, Probate Law, Elder Law, and Special Needs Trust Law. His office can be reached at (650) 493-8070.
Wedding and Bar/Bat Mitzvah Videography
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Jewish Professional Directory Attorneys Philip L. Hammer
Hoge, Fenton, Jones & Appel 60 S. Market St., Ste. 1400 San Jose, CA 95113 (408) 287-9501 plh@hogefenton.com www.hogefenton.com/hammer.html Specializing in complex family law matters. Certified Specialist in Family Law, State Bar of CA; Fellow, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.
David J. Hofmann
Hoge, Fenton, Jones & Appel 60 S. Market St., Ste. 1400 San Jose, CA 95113 (408) 287-9501 djh@hogefenton.com www.hogefenton.com/hofmann.html Specializing in commercial and residential real estate transactions & finance
David S. Howard
Hoge, Fenton, Jones & Appel 60 S. Market St., Ste. 1400 San Jose, CA 95113 (408) 287-9501 dsh@hogefenton.com www.hogefenton.com/howard.html Specializing in complex taxation, corporate strategy, and business succession planning; Jewish Federation Silicon Valley Financial Advisory Board.
Steven D. Siner
Hoge, Fenton, Jones & Appel 60 S. Market St., Ste. 1400 San Jose, CA 95113 (408) 287-9501 sds@hogefenton.com www.hogefenton.com/siner.html Specializing in complex business transactions, estate planning, and family business succession planning.
Eliana B. Weissman
Hoge, Fenton, Jones & Appel 60 S. Market St., Ste. 1400 San Jose, CA 95113 (408) 287-9501 ebw@hogefenton.com www.hogefenton.com/weissman.html Specializing in family law matters.
Christl Denecke
“Helping you plan for your family’s tomorrow at every stage of your life.” 1743 Pilgrim Avenue Mountain View, CA 94040 (650) 336-5185 Christl@DeneckePlanning.com www.DeneckePlanning.com Family Wealth Planning • Living Trusts • Special Needs Trusts • Estate Planning for Young Families Estate Planning for Non-Traditional Families
Law Office of Derryl H. Molina
“Trust Your Trust to Us!” 1142 S. Winchester Blvd., Ste. B San Jose, CA 95128 (408) 244-4992 attderryl@comcast.net www.fulllifecareplanner.com Estate Planning, Probate, and Elder Law. Mediation Facilitor.
Attorneys Minda B. Parrish
14500 Big Basin Way, Suite D, Saratoga, CA 95070 (408) 741-3500 minda@parrishlaw.net Estate Planning, Probate, Elder Law
Lynne R. Snyder
101 Church St., Suite 7, Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 354-5590 Adoption, Custody, Dissolutions, Guardianship, Juvenile Court, Paternity
Shannon Stein
Law Offices of Shannon Stein 438 South Murphy Avenue Sunnyvale, CA 94086 (408) 774-9097 shannon@shannonsteinlaw.com www.shannonsteinlaw.com Family Law Attorney, specializing in dissolutions, child custody, child support, mediation, restraining orders, limited scope representation, post-judgement issues.
Timothy D. Widman
Law Offices of Timothy D. Widman 101 Race St., Ste. 100 San Jose, CA 95126 (408) 288-6777 www.widman-immigrationlaw.com tdwidmanesq@comcast.net Immigration and Nationality Law
Carol Elias Zolla
16450 Los Gatos Boulevard, Suite 208, Los Gatos, CA 95032 Tel: 408-358-6900 carol@zollalawfirm.com www.zollalawfirm.com Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust & Probate Law. The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization.
Cantor-Educator Dr. Itzhak Emanuel
27 Eucalyptus Lane San Rafael, CA 94901 Phone/Fax (415) 453-3899 Cell (415) 218-1295 All Life cycle ceremonies-special events, Spiritual Leadership; Cantorial-Liturgical skills; Hebrew-Jewish studies
Commercial Real Estate
Guggenheim Realty Group, Inc
595 Millich Drive, Suite 101, Campbell, CA 95008 (408) 871-8722 x222 Fax (408) 834-4959 www.guggenheimrgi.com Commercial Real Estate Management, Investments, and Leasing. Call us for your property management, leasing and sales needs. Allen Guggenheim & Gary Naillon
Events AMB Designs
Promote your business or service in the Jewish Professional Directory! Contact Amanda Glincher: amanda@jvalley.org, (408) 357-7503
www.jvalley.org
Financial Services
(408) 942-0852 ambdsgn@pacbell.net www.ambdesigns.com Balloon & Event Décor Any Occasion, we do it all! Call Amy Blach, your Event Designer
Minda Cutcher, MBA, Inc.
Financial Advocacy for Seniors 408-279-3269 (o) 408-318-0828 (c) www.mindacutcher.com minda@mindacutcher.com Helping families create and manage strategies to reduce healthcare costs, access benefits, decrease household expenses, pay bills and process mail.
Real Estate Orna & Ruben Yomtoubian
408-253-2250 or 408-887-8239 888-Do0-Fees 888-360-3337 (Toll Free) Orna@ORNA.com www.ORNA.com Full Service Discount Commission Realty Broker/Owner BS, MS, MIS, Finance www.aDiscountRealty.com • 1% Listing Broker Commission • I pay all my Buyer’s Closing Costs* • Free Service to Jewish Organizations (Bet Kenesets) www.aDiscountMortgage.com • 30 Years Fixed Conforming No Fee Loan 3.875% APR • No Upfront Fees, No Fee Loans, $417K> Loan>$250K Real Estate #01098186, Mortgage #NMLS31413, Appraisal #AL029181
Senior Services Lyn Pasqua DELIVERED BY GRACE
Transportation and Shopping Service 408-590-5898 Personalized transportation service, serving seniors throughout Santa Clara and most cities in San Mateo County. Our service is tailored to meet your needs.
Tax Preparation & Representation Philip S. Levine EA, MBA Padgett Business Services Silicon Valley West Inc.
501 N. Santa Cruz Blvd. Ste. A Los Gatos CA 95030 (408) 402-3725 p_levine@smallbizpros.com www.siliconvalleywest.com Tax Preparation and Professional Representation before the IRS and CA FTB. A small business focus including corporations and partnerships as well as their owners and other professionals. We also welcome CA Registered Domestic Partner (RDP) returns as well as clients with international tax issues.
Leonard W. Williams, CPA
455 S. Mathilda, Sunnyvale 94086 (408) 736-1566 www.LWWilliamsCPA.com Leonard W. Williams, CPA Elaine Raitt, CPA, Bruce Pajak, CPA, Brenda L. George, EA, T. Patricia Cohen, EA, Mary C. Koeppen, EA, Y. Mary King, EA Tax Planning & Return Preparation for Individuals, Trusts & Estates. A Professional Corporation
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The Strength of a People. The Power of Community.
We have the strength of a millennia of history. Our strength comes from the continuum of Jewish history of which we are a part. At the Jewish Federation, our values of compassion, charity, generosity and responsibility inspire us to improve the quality of life for people in Silicon Valley, in Israel and in over 70 countries every day. When we combine our efforts we are a powerful community, developing innovative responses to critical, often life-threatening issues. This is your opportunity to be part of a caring community that gives back. Support the Annual Campaign. To donate, go to www.jvalley.org or call 408.358.3033. 速
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