JValley.news January '13

JValley news January 2013

the power of tzedekah beth david celebrates 50 years teaching children to pray students participate in poverty simulation jewish perspective on environmentalism

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. #87 Issue #1, January 2013

NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID SAN JOSE, CA PERMIT #553

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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

EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Amanda Glincher amanda@jvalley.org 408-357-7503

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SIMCHAS: Andrea Greyber agreyber@yahoo.com

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Published six times a year by the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley.

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Send copy to JValley.news, 14855 Oka Rd., Suite 200, Los Gatos, CA 95032. Fax: (408) 356-0733.

CANDLELIGHTING San Jose, CA

FRI, January 25..................................5:07 PM FRI, February 1..................................5:15 PM FRI, February 8..................................5:22 PM FRI, February 15................................5:30 PM FRI, February 22................................5:37 PM FRI, March 1......................................5:44 PM FRI, March 8......................................5:51 PM FRI, March 15....................................6:57 PM More Candlelighting times in March 2013 Issue

from the ceo

In 1988, donning shoulder pads and leg warmers (never on the same day, of course) never did I ever imagine that I would be blessed enough to remain in this Jewish community, and with the Jewish Federation, for the next 25 years.

I have been fortunate to grow with the Federation, from the Outreach Director to the CEO at our beautiful new campus, I have been able to experience personal growth through growing the organization. The fulfillment I have in this position would not be possible without all of the wonderful opportunities I have had. Traveling with so many of you on missions throughout Israel and the world, rebuilding communities in despair, fundraising dollar by dollar to support our local community and assist Jews throughout the diaspora and in Israel, and finally, building a community campus that could benefit all of Silicon Valley.

Our Los Gatos campus has been my focus and pride over the last decade.

Before we had even laid the very first brick, a change could be felt among our community family. The partnerships that have ensued because of the campus, especially among campus agencies (the Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center, Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley, Yavneh Day School and, of course, the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley), are great in quality and quantity. As a community, we make a difference.

And I am so grateful to say that 25 years with Federation, as a part of this community, has made such a difference in my own life. I am so fortunate to work with people I love, in a building we built together, to see my grandchildren being educated just doors away and my family, this community, coming together so often for celebrations and special occasions.

I am looking forward to many more years of being part of such a loving, supportive community. Thank you for making this community what it is. jyl jurman

content Local Highlights Yavneh Sock Drive Pillars of the Community celebrates 9 years The spirit of baseball Students participate in poverty simulation Grant received for teen fitness 100 great Jewish books Jerusalem Grill brings folks together The power of tzedekah Jewish perspective on enviromentalism Ask the rabbi: teaching children to pray

In Every Issue 9 9 10 10 12 12 17 17 24 25

Community photos Simchas 55+ Datebook Obituaries Professional Directory

5 18 20 21 26 27

Special Coverage Beth David @ 50 A recipe for celebration: Hamentashen Preserving Soviet Jewry

9 12 14

Chag Purim Sameach!

(Happy Purim!)

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c mmunity photos

Rabbi Josh Berkenwald of Over 1,500 people attended the community-wide Candlelighting at Santana Congregation Sinai, Federation CEO Row on Sunday, December 9. A program sponsored by the PJ Library and Jyl Jurman with grandchildren Eli the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley, the Candlelighting included booths and Maya Weisman, Rabbi Daniel and performances from many community organizations.

Pressman of Congregation Beth David and Eli Ohriner A special thank you to Kamran Zahoori, of Picture 2000, for these photos!

Congregation Shir Hadash children, dressed as candles, latkes and dreidels, performed for the crowd.

Yavneh Day School’s Gesher (Pre-Kindergarten) students sang with the school’s other students on stage.

Shannon Guggenheim, of Guggenheim Entertainment, was the emcee of the celebration. Here she is alongside PJ Library Volunteer Outreach Coordinator Eleanor Dickman.

Temple Emanu-El’s Rabbi Dana Magat (right) performed with other Emanu-El adults and children.

Santana Row Candlighting

Participating Organizations and Businesses: Congregation Beth David, Congregation Emeth, Congregation Shir Hadash, Congregation Sinai, Temple EmanuEl, Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center, Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley, South Peninsula Hebrew Day School, Yavneh Day School, BBYO, Hillel of Silicon Valley, Sharone Hadassah, Alef Bet Judaica, Jerusalem Grill and Bar, Pars Kosher Market and the Retro Dome

Barrie & Jonathan Cress

Past Federation Presidents Al Guggenheim, Eli Reinhard, Steve Ellenberg, Judy Levin, Bonnie Slavitt Moore, Brett Borah, Al Sporer, Howard May, Current Federation President Jeff Kanel and Past President Steve Greenberg

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Maureen Ellenberg and Cookie Addison

Major Gifts Dinner Chair Howard May with Jewish Federation CEO Jyl Jurman

Major Gifts Dinner 5

c mmunity photos Yavneh Classical Family Concert

Yellow Comforter Project

Participating Organizations: Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center Preschool, Congregation Beth David Religious School, Conregation Emeth Religious School, Congregation Shir Hadash’s Preschool and Religious School, Congregation Sinai’s Nursery School and Religious School, South Peninsula Hebrew Day School’s Gan Aviv, Temple Emanu-El’s Preschool and Religious School and Yavneh Day School

PJ Library, a program of the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley, launched the Yellow Comforter Project in November 2012, partnering with ten South Bay schools. The program, developed by PJ Library Director Rabbi Leslie Alexander along with preschool directors in the PJ Goes to School initiative, taught young children about the mitzvah of tzedekah through the Random House publication and PJ Library book, “How Dahlia Put a Big Yellow Comforter in a Tiny Blue Box.” Each child created a tzedekah box for their home and raised money for the project. In less than one month, the children raised nearly $4,000. The money was used to purchase items for Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley’s Embrace-aFamily program, benefiting those in need throughout our community.

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c mmunity photos

School-wide "Move-a-thon" - organized by Yavneh Day School’s student council to raise money to help the victims of Hurricane Sandy. Here, Kitah Alef and Kitah Bet are jumping rope, dancing, and hoola hooping. Others were off shooting baskets to help raise money. Yavneh donated to the Congregation Beth Elohim (CBE) Sandy Relief Rund. CBE has been providing food, toiletries and other direct support and supplies since the first day to people in the Rockaways, Coney Island and other areas of Brooklyn that have not been receiving enough support.

Ludmila and Roza were thrilled to receive beautiful scarves as Hanukkah presents from Knitzvah.

Galina Chyorny, Karen Fihn, Barb Green and Cherie Ravel are shown with food baskets.

Embrace-a-Family by Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley

Vanina Sandel shows off toys from Hillel’s toy drive to benefit JFS needy families.

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Attorneys from Fragomen’s Santa Clara office donated 80 toys and gifts to JFS’ refugee clients. The attorneys conduct monthly pro-bono citizenship clinics at JFS.

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www.darlingandfischer.com 8

Temple Emanu‐El! Over 150 Years of Tradition and Innovation!

1010 University Ave, San Jose, CA 95126 Temple Office (408)292‐0939 Religious School (408)292‐3223 ARTIST IN RESIDENCE, LISA LEVINE WILL LEAD TWO VERY SPECIAL EVENTS:

Soulful Shabbat Ruach Friday, February 8th at 7:30 PM

Soulful Shabbat Ruach is an inclusive program for young and old alike, and people of all backgrounds. This special service will include Temple Emanu-El’s choir as well as the beautiful sounds of piano, saxophone, and percussion.

Yoga Shalom Saturday, February 9th at 9:00 AM

An embodiment of prayer and worship through movement.

It is a unique worship experience that brings together body, mind, and spirit. Yoga Shalom is for everyone and can be done sitting in a chair if necessary.

Totally Awesome Purim Thriller Saturday, February 23 at 6:00 PM

Get your costume ready and join us for an epic evening of laughter, dancing, and libations! Purim is a night for being merry and getting loud—so dance til your "moon boots" hurt! Our Totally Awesome Purim Thriller is going 80's and the hits will be from the decade of neon, big hair, Spandex, Madonna and Risky Business!

On-site babysitting will be offered!

Rock Shabbat is Back, Friday, March 15 at 7:30 PM Don’t miss this amped up service where you can rock out to music performed by our amazing Rock Shabbat band and singers.

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Celebrating Beth David at 50: Milestones and Memories

By Lynn Crocker Milestones and Memories! After 50 years as one of Silicon Valley’s most vibrant and innovative congregations, Congregation Beth David will be celebrating its growth, history, and accomplishments with a year of activities demonstrating the synagogue’s leadership and vitality within the larger Jewish community.

A “kickoff” event will be held on Sunday, April 7 at the synagogue, with festivities beginning at 1 pm.

Entitled “Celebrating Beth David at 50: Milestones and Memories,” the event, according to Jackie Klein, the event chair, “is intended to bring an emotional connection ― from generation to generation ― to the major milestones, community events, simchas, and memories of all who have made Beth David a part of their lives and made their lives a part of Beth David.”

Through interactive experiences featuring music, member stories, photos and memorable events, says Jackie, “We hope to excite, entertain and emotionally engage those who come to join in this celebration.”

A “visual timeline” showing key milestones, community activities, and world events will be on display. Attendees are encouraged to add their own memories and milestones to help create a living testament to the Beth David community.

Tributes from congregants, local dignitaries and special guests will describe historic milestones and create shared memories as the congregation re-enacts “the Beth David story.” Rabbis Daniel Pressman and Philip Ohriner along with past presidents of the synagogue will be paying tribute to the role Beth David has played in the community.

Highlighting the history, an original time capsule from the founders will be opened, its contents revealed and a new time capsule dedicated to the future will be set in its place.

The event committee includes Marilyn Ader, Rhonda Farber, Sofia Filshtinsky, Ilene Janofsky, Miriam Marr and Robin Penn.

And this is only the beginning!

Other events are being planned to highlight this yearlong celebration ― including a Founders’ Brunch, a Day of Learning, with other events focused on specific audiences, including the larger community, a Hazak program, an event for “out-of-towners” formerly affiliated with the synagogue, and, of course, a tribute to Rabbi Daniel Pressman. This ongoing outreach is being designed by one of Beth David’s most active and dedicated members, Sandy Mayer, with the support of committee members Eleanor Weber Dickman, Lee Hirsch, David Hoffman, Doris Katz, Jan Larky, Tanya Lorien, Margie Pomerantz, Susan Rojo, Rita Schlosser, Chuck Taubman and Dorit Zori.

The scope, vitality, and meaning of this project will rely strongly on the entire congregation. Please be encouraged to share your memories of Beth David over the years. Life cycle ceremonies, committee participation, community service, significant accomplishments by individuals and groups ― whatever most embodies the meaning and value of Congregation Beth David for you.

l cal news Yavneh Sock Drive brings in 1,441 pairs of socks

By Joy Null Did you know that socks are one of the most needed and least provided resources at homeless shelters? With this fact in mind, Yavneh Day School’s third graders organized a two-week sock drive around campus. On Friday, December 21, Ms. Powell’s third grade class presented 1,441 pair of socks to Family Supportive Housing in San Jose.

Family Supportive Housing provides shelter and supportive services to homeless families in Santa Clara County. This is the only shelter in the area that welcomes whole families, enabling them to remain together.

The class learned about the challenges faced by families at the shelter this time of year and how the shelter works to assist families in finding housing and jobs.

Third grade teacher Janet Powell said, “We want to extend a huge thank you to the entire Yavneh community who worked together to donate much-needed supplies to Family Supportive Housing. We’re so proud of our third graders who surpassed last year’s donation by 437 pairs of socks. They’ve proven that children really can make an impact.”

Pillars of the Community to be hosted at Computer History Museum

By Sarita Bronstein On Sunday, March 17, Hillel of Silicon Valley will host the ninth annual Pillars of the Community at the Computer History Museum, 1401 North Shoreline Blvd., Mountain View. This year’s event is “Bringing Hillel to you...Inspiring a New Generation,” and will honor community and student leaders for their contributions to Hillel’s mission of enriching students’ lives. A Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to Sheree Roth for her bold efforts to combat anti-Israel propaganda including at campuses served by Hillel SV. Additionally, community members Sue Maltiel, former executive director of Hillel of Silicon Valley, and Dr. Judy Miner, president of Foothill College, as well as student leaders from the campuses Hillel serves will be honored.

The Pillars of the Community event continues to grow in popularity featuring live and silent auctions; the awards luncheon honoring student and community leaders; Dadi Perlmutter, executive vice president and general manager at Intel, as the guest speaker; and of course plenty of schmooze time!

The dialogue is just beginning. What can you contribute to our communal memory as part of this wonderful once-in-a-lifetime celebration?

Pillars of the Community is the major annual fund-raising event for Hillel, and offers a variety of opportunities for you to support and contribute to Hillel’s mission. Please mark your calendars and join us on March 17!

For more information call the Beth David office at (408) 257-3333 or visit http://www.beth-david.org/50th/.

For more information, please contact Hillel’s Executive Director Sarita Bronstein at (408) 775-7531 or Pillars@hillelsv.org.

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l cal news

Yavneh middle school students participated in Poverty Simulation

The spirit of baseball: baseball’s special place in American Jewish life

By Joy Null

It was evident from Lew Wolff’s presentation of this topic at Congregation Shir Hadash’s Exploring the World of Judaism program on December 9, that he has a long and enduring love of baseball. Lew is chairman and chief executive officer of Wolff Urban Management, Inc., a real estate acquisition, investment, development and management firm and the owner of Major League Baseball’s Oakland Athletics.

For many Jewish Americans who came to this country as immigrants, loving baseball symbolized becoming American. Their love was strengthened when the rare player who was Jewish, such as Hank Greenberg or Sandy Koufax, attained some fame and stature for their play on the field.

Lew’s presentation, which included some interesting stories about lesser-known Jewish players and managers, was funny, honest and direct. One point that he made was there simply are not that many Jewish players in the major leagues anymore and, in fact; there aren’t that many African-Americans in the majors either. Times have changed, and so have the demographics of baseball.

Perhaps one of the more surprising opinions that he shared with the audience is that he thinks that Bud Selig, the current commissioner of Major League Baseball, is the single most important Jewish person in baseball. This is surprising on two levels; first Commissioner Selig is not a former player, his involvement in baseball came through his ownership of the Milwaukee Brewers and second, the two men are currently on opposite sides of the argument to move the A’s to the South Bay. Bud Selig may well go down in baseball history as one of the most important and influential Commissioners of all time.

Exploring the World of Judaism is a program of Congregation Shir Hadash and Jewish LearningWorks and is supported in part by the Newton and Rochelle Becker Charitable Trust.

Don’t miss

Jewbilee!

Sunday, January 27

@ Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center

Pay the utility bill or pay for school clothes for a growing child? Stay home from work with a sick child or leave the child alone so you don’t lose a day’s wages? Use precious change for bus fare or buy one more loaf of bread? These are the critical choices many families are faced with as they negotiate the challenges of poverty.

On December 6, Yavneh Day School’s middle school students, teachers and parents participated in a Poverty Simulation exercise in order to understand more fully the experience of millions of Americans who live in poverty.

Step Up Silicon Valley (a consortium of local nonprofits and faith-based groups committed to decreasing poverty in our community by 50% by 2020) partnered with Sacred Heart Community Service to facilitate the Poverty Simulation at Yavneh.

Volunteers from Sacred Heart came to Yavneh to take the middle school students through the simulation experience.

Skilled facilitators created an experiential learning environment in which students took on prescribed identities. Within small groups (with at least one Students learned many aspects of what adult), everyone was assigned an identity and it is like to live in poverty including the challenged to make it through a month of poverty. In difficulties of finding and paying for two hours, the groups moved through a “month” in the child care while going to work. lives of their “characters” -- go to school, go to work, go to the bank, get paid, pay bills, handle crises, take public transportation, encounter law enforcement and social service agencies. Within this time, they developed strategies on how to get through a month with very little money and limited resources. Students encountered long lines, unexpected burglaries, illness and even incarceration. During the simulation, students learned about the experience of living in poverty, where much of one’s day is spent in parsing out limited dollars. The group debriefed after the experience to share insights and concerns.

The goal of the exercise, according to Carol Stevenson, Sacred Heart Community Service’s community involvement coordinator, is to encourage students to “understand and have empathy for the struggles of people that are poor.” Through the simulation, students learned about the challenges faced by the most vulnerable among us -- daily challenges to take care of and feed their families, educate their children, earn a living and come home to a safe place each evening. The simulation also helped students to discover or renew a commitment to Participants in the Poverty Simulation working toward alleviating this social injustice. There gather with their assigned families and are many ways to support people who find themselves read about their upcoming activities. trapped in a cycle of poverty and many organizations working to address and then eliminate the root causes of poverty in our valley.

Robert Gomez acted the part of one of the community workers, but last year, he was homeless, living in a shelter in Sunnyvale. Now he is employed at Downtown Streets Team in Palo Alto which helps the homeless. According to Gomez, things like poverty simulation help make things change for the better.

The Poverty Simulation is part of Yavneh’s Middle School Social Justice program taught by Susan Ellenberg. “We want to heighten the students’ awareness of local, national and global social injustices, and engage them in philanthropic giving, community service and political advocacy,” said Mrs. Ellenberg.

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Enrich your soul, Stimulate your brain

PEARLS TELL HER SHE’S LOVED.

Come celebrate Purim with us Purim February 23, 2013. 5:30-8:30 pm Young Children’s service 5:30 pm Persian Dinner 6:15 pm Purim Service at 7:30 pm, Purim Schpiel 8:30 pm Purim Carnival, February 24, 2013. 11am special pre-schooler hour, noon-2 pm all ages JewishLearning Works presents the following Sunday morning talks.

No fee. Free Bagels. 9:30 am

VARDY’S PEARLS TELL HER SHE’S UNIQUE. For gifts traditional enough to wear forever and unique enough for her—talk to the jewelry maker.

“Yoga Shalom,” February 10, 2013. Cantor Lisa Levine, Cantor Temple Shalom, Chevy Chase, MD “Passing on Gefilte Fish,” on March 3, 2013. A frank exploration

by Abra Greenspan, Bay Area Community Talmud Circle Project Coordinator, Lehrhaus Judaica of why we want our children to love being Jewish, what that means and how we do it.

“The Well-balanced Student,” on March 17, 2013. Amy Alamar, Ed.D, schools program manager for Challeneger success will speak.

Levine Lecture, March 8 and 9, 2013. 2013 is the 100th anniversary of two trials which had tremendous implications in the Jewish World.

Join outstanding lecturer Fred Rosenbaum as we explore famous trials that were turning points in Jewish life.

Deli and Game night, February 9, 2013. 6:30 pm, enjoy an excellent NY style deli meal and play Poker, Mahj and more.

10227 So1655 De Anza Cupertino, CA 95014 •• 408 446-2900• • www.vardysjewelers.com S. DeBlvd.

Anza Blvd. at Prospect Cupertino 408 446-2900 Proceeds of sales from this ad will go to Jewish Federation's ISRAEL EMERGENCY CAMPAIGN

For more information on services, programs and adult ed please visit shirhadash.org

Congregation Beth David There’s a Place for Me at CBD

Milestones and Memories!

Sunday, April 7th at 1:00 pm Join us in celebration with a “birthday dessert buffet”, music, songs, comedy, and special tributes. Everyone is welcome!

Thought Provoking Seminar

Diaspora & Homeland: Jewish Perspectives in the Greco-Roman Era Sunday, February 10th from 10:30 am – 12:30 pm

Dr. Gruen explores dilemmas of Jews in the Diaspora from Ancient Italy to Iran.

Megillah Reading - Friday, February 23rd at 7:00 pm Family Megillah Reading - Saturday, February 24th at 9:00 am

- Kitah Zayin Purimspeil and an abridged version of the Megillah reading

Purim Carnival – Saturday, February 24th from 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

Fun for the whole family! Come in costume! Wear crazy clothes and wild hair! *Sing-along *Carnival Games and Prizes *Arts and Crafts * Silent Auction.

2nd Annual Hamantaschen Ball nd

Saturday, March 2 at 7:00 p.m.

Featuring Wally’s Swing World Cocktail Combo Tickets are $18 per person or $36 per couple in advance or $25 per person and $50.00 per couple at the door. Appetizers, desserts, wine, beer and coffee will be available. To purchase tickets visit www.beth-david.org/RSVP.

PICTURE

2000

19700 Prospect Road, Saratoga / 408-257-3333 / www.beth-david.org Daniel Pressman, Senior Rabbi / Philip Ohriner, Assistant Rabbi

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l cal news

JCC receives grant for Jewish teen fitness initiative The Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center of Silicon Valley has received a $1,000 grant to fund a pilot program for a Jewish teen fitness initiative. The grant is from the Community Giving Fund of ProSight Specialty Insurance Group, Inc., and Tangram Insurance Services.

The teen fitness initiative, which will be called “Shemirat HaGuf: Jewish Teen Fitness,” is targeted at post-bar/bat mitzvah students.

Shemirat Haguf means “self-care” in Hebrew. The program will meet for 10 sessions, including a meeting with a nutritionist, a youth fitness instructor who is a certified personal trainer, Jewish study with the JCC’s Rabbi James Greene, team building sessions and group classes.

“Becoming an adult in our community is about taking responsibility— for your identity, education and health,” Rabbi Greene said. “I am pleased that this new program will help instill the value of Shemirat Haguf, self-care, in the emerging generation of Jewish adults.”

“We know that a grant, even a modest one, can make a difference and both ProSight and Tangram are thrilled to be contributing to organizations that are making a difference in communities across the state,” said Rekha Skantharaja, a senior vice president at Tangram Insurance Services.

100 great Jewish books Jews are often called the people of the book. On December 1, 2012, after morning services, over 60 congregants from Congregation Shir Hadash met to share their summaries and insights of the list of One Hundred Great Jewish Books that Rabbi Lawrence A. Hoffman identified in his book of the same name.

Rabbi Hoffman’s goal in creating this list was to start a conversation about who we are as a people and who we are likely to become. In the forward to his book he says that the book is intended to be an ‘altogether new kind of introduction to Judaism, intended to enrich the explanations of Jewish History, thought and practice that other books provide.’

The list is separated into “conversations” that cover over three millennia of Jewish thought and literature. It starts with the Bible and then moves on to the Rabbis, the Middle Ages, Enlightenment, Emancipation and Traditionalism, Turn of the Century, The American Experience to World War II, the Holocaust and Israel, the American Experience after World War II and concludes with Jewish People, Jewish Thought, and Jewish Destiny Today.

Given the depth and breadth of this list, individual congregants at Shir Hadash chose to read one or two books on the list and then share a summary of the book(s) and some key ideas they learned from reading that book. Not surprisingly, the presentation of each book sparked questions and more conversation. Rabbi Aron circulated around the room to make sure each speaker in each group would have sufficient time to present their book.

The success of this event was evident in the feedback from participants like Rob Chaykin who said he was “impressed by how passionate everyone was about their book” and that he was going home with the names of six books that he wants to read.

A recipe for celebration

By Rabbi Shoshana Ohriner Food is one of the first things that come to mind when we think about Jewish culture. Whether it is matzah ball soup on Passover, bagels and lox on Sunday mornings or hamentashen on Purim, sharing traditional foods with family and friends is something we cherish. At this time of year, with the holiday of Purim just a month away, my mind always turns to thoughts of hamentashen, the iconic three-cornered cookie of the holiday. What better way is there to destroy the villain of the Purim story, Haman, than by symbolically devouring his hat?

Unfortunately, most store-bought hamentashen don’t taste any better than the hat they represent. Homemade hamentashen are miles above anything that can be purchased, and that makes them totally worth making.

While the cookies themselves are a traditional part of any Purim celebration, there is no reason their flavors have to be limited to the traditional. S’more hamentashen, pecan pie, chocolate peanut butter, white chocolate cranberry, the possibilities are literally limitless!

The recipes printed here are my interpretation of my grandmother’s hamentashen recipe, which she, in turn, adapted from an old sisterhood cookbook. Since hamentashen are mostly dough, with just a bit of filling, I find that the best hamentashen are ones where the dough is flavorful and worth eating even without the filling. That way each bite of the hamentash is going to be delicious, whether it be a doughy corner or a jam-filled center.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Hamentashen Makes approximately 3 dozen, parve or dairy

1/2 cup non-hydrogenated margarine or butter, cut into 8 pieces 1/2 cup trans-fat free shortening, such as Spectrum Organic, cut into 8 pieces 3 cups flour 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup sugar 1/2 cup chopped nuts 1 teaspoon orange zest 2 beaten eggs 2-4 tablespoons orange juice 1 egg + 1 tablespoon water, lightly beaten Fillings of choice

S’more hamentashen Pulse the dry ingredients in the food processor until well combined. Add the margarine or butter and shortening and pulse until mixture resembles a coarse meal. Add the beaten eggs and pulse until combined.

Remove the mixture from the food processor and pour into a large bowl. Sprinkle with two tablespoons of orange juice and mix until it comes together into a ball. If the dough seems dry add the remaining orange juice.

Divide the dough into two disks, wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for one hour.

Roll out the dough and using a round cutter, cut into circles. (It is easiest to roll it out between two pieces of parchment paper.) Fill each circle with a small amount of filling.

(For 2-inch circles use about a teaspoon of filling). Brush each circle with the egg wash and fold two sides together, pinching tight to make a corner. Fold up the remaining side to make a triangle with the filling showing in the middle and pinch the other two corners well. It is important that they are well pinched, so that they do not come open in the oven.

Bake at 350° until they are slightly firm to the touch, about 11 minutes.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------All the recipes for the various flavors of hamentashen mentioned in this article (including a gluten-free version!) can be found at www. couldntbeparve.com.

Rabbi Shoshana Ohriner is the creator and author of the popular blog Couldn’t Be Parve, specializing in naturally delicious dairy-free desserts. Her recipes have been published in a variety of publications and websites, including the Jewish Week and Kosher.com. Shoshana is the mother of two young boys, Ari and Eli, and married to Rabbi Philip Ohriner.

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20135772lectures attheapjcc

14855 oka road, los gatos, ca 95032 $5 jcc members | $7 non-members www.siliconValleyjcc.org/jplace cjll@svjcc.org | 408.357.7411

lisa leVine

rabbi darby j. leigh

Author of yoga shalom

Community sCholAr-in-residenCe: Faith and community For persons with disabilities

thursdAy, februAry 7th | 7:00pm In partnership with JCC’s Wellness Department Yoga Shalom is a unique worship experience that brings together body, mind, and spirit for an extraordinary prayer service. Combining the two powerful spiritual disciplines of Jewish worship and yoga practice, Yoga Shalom leads to deeper understandings of both, or as author Lisa Levine writes of her initial forays into yoga as a cantorial student, “I learned to be more present in my prayers and meditations so I could better pray with and on behalf of my congregation.”

sAturdAy, mArCh 2nd | 7:00pm Rabbi Leigh was one of the first Deaf rabbis to be ordained from a major American Rabbinical school.

Rabbi Leigh will share his teachings and perspective on Jewish practice and inclusion with the entire community. His visit will be given in ASL and will be vocally interpreted.

apjcccenterFor

jewishliFe andlearning www.jvalley.org

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myStory Project Preserving Soviet Jewry stories for our children and future generations

by Lori Telson How many of our children know the importance of December 6, 1987? If you are Russian or come from an activist family, you know that on this date 25 years ago, 250,000 people gathered on the National Mall in Washington D.C., while Mikhail Gorbachev spoke with President Reagan, and called for the freedoms of an open society. It was the largest-ever gathering of Americans rallying for the freedoms of a people in another nation.

Jews and non-Jews became activists, and the stories of immigration and activism continue to resonate with us today and inform how we respond to current immigration challenges.

To honor this anniversary, the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) of the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley is launching a storycollecting project.

Silicon Valley has a story to tell about our local activists and émigrés who fought and won an important battle for human rights. Our valley continues to enrich the world through the contributions of Jewish immigrants, their children and grandchildren from the former Soviet Union. Many local Rabbis and Jewish leaders were instrumental in the movement.

Through March 31, JCRC will help facilitate the recording of stories in English or in Russian on www.mystory.hias.org. This oral history website was created by Genia Brin, mother of Sergey Brin who immigrated with his family in 1979 with the help of the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS) and went on to found Google. If you have a story to share, please contact the project co-chairs, Lori Telson and Paula Marsh, at mystory@ jvalley.org or JCRC Director Diane Fisher at (408)357-7504.

As we collect these stories, we will not only document our history, we will also be building a stronger community. We will confirm our shared Jewish values, build on our shared Jewish experiences, and aspire to achieve new common goals.

SAVE THE DATE: March 31, 2013, 3:00 pm. Community Freedom Seder, Levy Family Campus, APJCC Auditorium. For more information visit jvalley.org/jcrc or contact Diane Fisher at (408) 357-7504.

The following are some of the personal stories collected through this project;

Lina (Gershun) Eydus, Soviet Union émigré: In Russia, I was a teenager when I was arrested by the government for participating in a Purim Spiel. The police came to my friend’s house where we were rehearsing the play and all of us were taken to the police station. If a Jew wanted to go to services or celebrate a holiday he could be arrested or lose his job. The police often searched our homes, our phones were tapped. One time when the police came, my grandmother put our papers and our Hebrew books in the oven.

Studying Hebrew was practically illegal. Luckily, the police didn’t check the oven.

My family applied for exit visas in 1979 for me, my parents, Olga and Leonid Gershun, and grandparents, Bella and Victor Flaxman. Six months later we were refused visas and became refuseniks. We had a lot of issues with the government because we were not just sitting and waiting for visas; we were learning English and Hebrew, going to meetings and trying to get Lina’s infant daughter, Ilana, is watched by Olga, attention from many people in other countries to help get us out. People were afraid to come and Ilana’s grandmother, and held by Olga’s father talk to us. I was in high school at the time and other students were not allowed to share a desk Victor Flaxman. with me. I went to school like this for two years. Everybody in my family lost their jobs. There was a lot of hardship and struggle. I think the stress contributed to my grandparents becoming very ill. They died before any of us got to leave the country. In the nine-and-one-half years of waiting to leave Russia, I met and married another refusenik Victor and we had a child, Ilana. Our family became a bit famous for having four generations of refuseniks. In 1988, my husband, myself, Ilana (2-years-old at that time) and Victor’s mother left Russia. Victor’s father passed away before he got to emigrate. My parents were still refused for another year-and-a-half.

It’s still very difficult for me to talk about this. I get very emotional thinking about it.

Rina Zolotusky, JCRC Board Member: My father attended his first Seder at age 36 at the HIAS office in Vienna. The passage “we were slaves in Egypt, but now we are free” rang particularly true for a man who left the Soviet Union the previous day. My family arrived in the United States in September 1987, and I was enrolled at Yavneh Day School. Mora Shula allowed my father, who had been teaching me English, to attend the first two days of kindergarten with me to translate; halfway through the third day she told him I had to do the rest on my own. Any child fortunate enough to have Mora Shula as a teacher cherishes the memory; I was particularly lucky to have a teacher who saw herself in me—after the horrors of World War II, at age 6, she was a refugee in Israel. I continued my education in Palo Alto and rarely thought about my refugee status. But when I attended a program at England’s 14

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myStory Project Cambridge University at 16, the fact that I was not yet a US Citizen became a critical distinction. Since my family renounced our Soviet citizenship to enter the United States as refugees in 1987 I had to travel under a United Nations Refugee Travel Document. I was a legal US resident with no citizenship at all— a fascinating distinction for a budding lawyer.

I became a US Citizen while at UC San Diego studying history. I went on to graduate the University of San Francisco Law School and am now involved with Jewish organizations in my community as the co-president of the Sequoia chapter of Hadassah and as a board member of the Jewish Community Relations Council.

Rabbi Daniel Pressman, Congregation Beth David, Saratoga: Saturday night, December 5, 1987 found Rabbi Allan Berkowitz and me on our way to Washington, DC for a rally on behalf of Soviet Jewry. Over a quarter of a million Jews from all over North America and beyond joined in Rina Zolotusky celebrating her sixth birthday at Yavneh Day a massive protest of Soviet policies. I remember School with her father. feeling great joy at seeing all these Jews together, unified around ahavat yisrael, love of their fellow Jews. The speakers included recently released refuseniks Felix Abramovich, Yosef Begun, Yuli Edelshtein, Misha and Ilana Kholmyansky, Ida Nudel, and Natan Sharansky.

Elie Wiesel, that great voice of the Jewish conscience, who had done so much to alert world Jewry to the plight of Soviet Jews, also spoke. Seeing this great demonstration of Jewish solidarity was one of the most moving experiences of my life.

One postscript: That January my family and I left for six months of sabbatical in Israel. One cold day I was riding a bus in Jerusalem, wearing my warm coat which had on it the button I had purchased at the Washington rally. A former Soviet Jew asked me what the button meant, and I told him about the event. He told me that he and his family had recently emigrated to Israel, and he thanked me for the support of American Jews. That really brought it home for me. Since that time I have met and talked with many Soviet emigres, and been moved by their stories. I think that history will look back on the Soviet Jewry movement—first and foremost the incredibly brave Soviet Jews themselves, and also the formidable American organization that responded to their cry—as one of the greatest modern achievements of the Jewish people.

Rabbi Daniel Pressman

Barbara Berlant, Jewish Family Services Knitzvah Chair: As a travel agent in San Jose, I was invited as part of a group of travel agents to travel to Moscow, Leningrad and Helsinki in 1983 to promote tourism to the Soviet Union. The Bay Area Council on Soviet Jewry discovered that I was going and contacted me.

They asked me how I would feel about contacting Jews there. If there was something that could be done for Soviet Jews now, I would do it. The refuseniks had a hard life. Anti-Semitism was widespread. They lost jobs or places in school because they were Jews and had applied for an exit visa.

I was advised not to use the phones in my hotel so I walked a couple of blocks to a pay phone. I called from subway phones at odd hours of the day and night to keep my activities private from the others in my group. “Hello, is this…? This is a friend from America.” And so the real purpose of my journey would begin. I brought goods, like medicine, perfume or jeans, to give to the Jews I met. One pair of Levis sold on the black market could mean that a family had enough money for food for a month. One of my contacts was Lev, a family friend of the imprisoned dissident Anatoly Sharansky. Medicine for his mother and other items for refuseniks were passed on through this contact. I brought back news of what people needed so the next person could bring it. I took pictures of my refuseniks to pass along to family members in other countries. One family had little contact with their daughter in Israel. My daughter was going to Israel that summer so she delivered their pictures to their daughter. Touching my daughter was like putting an arm around her parents and grandparents.

Barbara Berlant

Do not forget us, they each asked. I came back to the US completely drained physically and emotionally.

I joined the Bay Area Council on Soviet Jewry and gave talks about the refuseniks urging people to write letters and send telegrams to President Reagan and Secretary Schultz to make human rights the number-one issue in their dealings with the Soviet Union.

A few years ago my journey came full circle when I met Natan Sharansky (now an Israeli with a new name) in Palo Alto and he thanked me for helping his mother. His autograph said, “Thank you for your support in difficult times – you see, it worked!” www.jvalley.org

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spring 2013

Discover Yavneh At Yavneh, students develop confidence, creativity, kindness, leadership skills, and a strong Jewish identity.

Yavneh students are respected as individuals, valued as thinkers, and inspired to achieve.

Men’s night Out

wat c h f o r m o r e i n f o r m at i o n s o o n joel rubnitz, chair Full-day JK and K Challenging academics Warm, inclusive community Art and music in every grade

Hands-on science Singapore math curriculum One-to-one laptop program in the Middle School

Hebrew language Physical education and after school sports Emphasis on social justice

For more information or to schedule a tour, call 408.357.7474 or email diana@yavnehdayschool.org.

www.yavnehdayschool.org

SAVE THE DATE! SATURDAY, MARCH 9, 2013

MUSIC, MAGIC & MIRTH Congregation Sinai’s annual evening of exceptional entertainment, fabulous food and amazing auction items Featuring Lucy’s

Mouthwatering Moroccan Morsels!

Learn More at www.sinai-sj.org Ticket prices only $36 per person in advance, $45 at the door. Reserved seating: $100 per person. Festive Attire. For Tickets, call the office at 408-264-8542

Congregation Sinai 1532 Willowbrae Avenue San Jose, CA 95125 408-264-8542

Congregation Beth David Scholar-in-Residence on March 15 - 17, 2013 “Journeying into Life!” with Rabbi Bradley Artson

Rabbi Artson is Dean of the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies in L.A., a prominent author, and educator. All events are open to the community. Contact adulted@bethdavid.org for information.

Friday, March 15, 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Installing the First East African Rabbi and Sailing up the Nile to Discover Jewish Unity Services at 6:30 p.m., dinner at 7:15, Rabbi Artson talk at 8:30.

Pre-pay for dinner by March 10 at http://beth-david.org/rsvp.

Saturday, March 16 at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Almighty? No Way! Loving the God We Believe In After Kiddush lunch (1:30), Rabbi Artson discusses how science frames a new/old way to understand God, Torah, and ethics.

Saturday, March 16, 8:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

The Future of Judaism in America Learn about our capacity to face our future with hope and resolve.

Sunday, March 17, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Passover and a Renewed Jewish Agenda Hear how Jewish values have shaped Western social movements.

Congregation Beth David, 19700 Prospect Road, Saratoga, CA (408) 257-3333

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l cal news

The power of tzedekah

Bringing people together at the Jerusalem Grill

Recently, my three-year-old son and I took part in a wonderful program at the Shir Hadash Early Childhood Center that was designed to teach our children about tzedakah in a very real and powerful way. The ECC’s tzedakah adventure grew out of the community-wide Yellow Comforter Project, developed by the PJ Library Program of the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley, that was inspired by Linda Heller’s wonderful children’s book, “How Dalia Put a Big Yellow Comforter Inside a Tiny Blue Box.”

By Jonathan Kaye The Jerusalem Grill and Bar plays a special role in our community. Dining brings people together and the Grill and Bar provides a unique venue for that. Its clientele is as varied as the Bay Area population.

There is something special about the mix of Israelis, Persians, Russians and American Jews that come together to enjoy the shared bond of good kosher food.

The menu boasts a broad range of Israeli and Mediterranean food to suit all tastes. Guests are presented with freshly baked pita and some dips to munch on while they await the arrival of their choices. For those able to resist the delicious aroma of the lamb, chicken and beef entrees, there are plenty of salads, hearty soups and vegetarian options available. They also have a decent selection of wines and beers and a mouthwatering selection of desserts.

The prices are very reasonable and on par with other high quality, casual eating establishments.

This restaurant is expertly managed with a focus on happy customers eating big portions of quality food in a vibrant, feel-good, we-love-Israel atmosphere.

Business meetings, family gatherings, lunch or dinner with friends – the Grill and Bar is a great bet.

For the South Bay community, the restaurant strengthens our Jewish life by providing an opportunity to experience how much we Jews have in common regardless of our diverse backgrounds and practice. Like the land of Israel, the Jerusalem Grill and Bar belongs to all of us and the more we support it, the better it becomes.

The Jerusalem Grill and Bar is located in Campbell at 1740 South Winchester Blvd, near the junction of Winchester and Hamilton. There is a wide range of dine-in and take-out choices, in addition to corporate and private-function catering services.

For more information call (408) 866-2666 or visit jerusalemgrillbar.com. You’ll be glad you did.

By Yelena Kessel

The project involved five preschools and seven synagogues in Silicon Valley. In October, each child was given a tzedakah box to decorate and take home to fill with coins. The filled boxes were returned to school the week after Thanksgiving.

The children truly enjoyed every aspect of this project which included painting, Shir Hadash children browsing gluing, and coloring their tzedakah boxes, at The Wooden Horse pushing their coins into the box and hearing the “clink, clank” of each one go in, dumping it all out and sorting/counting and finally discussing what they were actually going to do with all that money.

The experts tell us that preschool-aged children are at the perfect age to start learning about tzedakah because three- and four-year-olds are able to understand the basic concepts of giving and caring. They are aware of what they care about and how they can help others. Practicing tzedakah instills in them the importance of doing something for others and looking beyond oneself.

Everyone at the Shir Hadash Early Childhood Center was very excited to participate in this year’s Yellow Comforter Project. Our school raised nearly $1,000 in contributions which were used to purchase toys for those children in the community who may not get holiday gifts this year. Once all the money was collected, each class, with the exception of the youngest, the two-year-old class, took a walking field trip to the popular local toy store, The Wooden Horse, where we purchased toys/gifts for less fortunate children.

During this holiday season when most of us, especially children, focus on what they will be receiving, it was truly remarkable to see how each and every child eagerly and enthusiastically anticipated going to the store to find the perfect toy, not for themselves, but, in their own words “to someone else,” “people who don’t have enough toys,” “toys for everyone,” “sad for those who don’t have toys” and “happy to give toys to someone else.”

They were also amazed to see how their “mountain of coins” turned into paper money which could be used to go “Mitzvah shopping.” For my son’s class, the excursion became more of a scavenger hunt; some children were responsible for finding particular toys, while others browsed through the store trying to find the perfect toy that another child would like. The entire adventure lasted 30 minutes in the store and we all emerged ecstatic with two large bags filled to the brim with quality toys for other children.

This tzedakah project was successful on so many levels; it showed the children what they could do and brought them a true sense of accomplishment. Their contributions of pennies, nickels and dimes when combined with the group were able to purchase bags full of lovely toys that would then be given to other less fortunate children. The children all said that they wanted the other children to feel happy, not sad. This class full of threeyear-olds was extremely happy to be doing something good for others! In addition, the children loved the feeling of being recognized for their efforts and good deeds; it made them feel very important. This project was truly a rewarding experience for all that were involved. We look forward to doing something similar next year. www.jvalley.org 17

SIMCHAS

By Andrea Cohen Greyber

Births Aviva & Josh Fronen of San Jose are excited to announce the arrival of their son Ezra Asher on August 8, 2012.

The bris was held on August 15. Big sister Leora, who is a first grader at Sakamoto Elementary School, and Zev, 3, who attends the APJCC preschool are enjoying their new baby brother. Proud grandparents are Pesia & Bruce Entin of Los Gatos and Jacqueline & Marc Fronen of Studio City. Aunt Elanah Entin of New York, Uncle Ari, Aunt Jeannie and Cousin Kayla Entin of San Jose and Uncle Yoni and

Aunt Sharon of Los Angeles are also delighted to welcome Ezra to the family.

Michal Strutin & Michael Sinensky of Congregation Beth David welcomed the birth of their grandson. Jonah Mugg Sinensky is the son of Asher Sinensky & Amy Mugg; he was born on November 16 at UCSF Hospital in San Francisco and weighed 6 pounds 9 ounces and was 20 inches long.

Congregation Beth David members Nathan & Janet Silberman welcomed the birth of their first grandchild. The parents are Shana & Kyle Howden of San Jose.

Granddaughter Riley Georgia was born on November 26; she weighed 7 pounds 10 ounces and was 18.5 inches long.

Called to the Torah Nathan Milgram, son of Daniel & Lisa Milgram, was called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah at the Beit Midrash on Masada on October 11.

Nathan is in the eighth grade at Yavneh Day School and is the older brother of Joshua who is in the fifth grade at Yavneh.

Nathan was pleased to have a large extended family with him in Israel including his grandparents David & Lucy Milgram of Los Altos Hills and Sinai members Dave and Eitan Myron. He also celebrated with his Congregation Sinai family on December 1 when

he was called for an Aliyah there.

Nathan enjoys fencing at Stanford, playing baseball with his brother and playing piano.

Anna Piskun, daughter of Yelena & Vadim of San Jose, was called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on November 17 at Congregation Sinai. She is the younger sister of Tanya, a freshman at Cal Poly.

Anna is in the seventh grade at Harker Middle School. She enjoys reading, and hanging out with her friends. She takes her synchronized swimming very seriously and is on a national team; she practices with the Santa Clara Aqua Maids.

Anna was very happy to share this special day with her grandparents Mark & Svetlana Kaufman of San Jose. In addition her uncle came in from Atlanta along with cousins from there and from Los Angeles. Members of the Sinai B’nai Mitzvah class are assembling toiletries to give to soldiers as part of the “Appreciation for the U.S. Army” project.

Dalia Tabibian, daughter of Rozita & David Tabibian, was called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on November 24 at Congregation Sinai. She is in the seventh grade at Yavneh Day School. She is the younger sister of Daniel Tabibian who is in the eighth grade at

Yavneh. She enjoys listening to music, playing the guitar and playing volleyball. Grandparents who attended were Farangees & Dr. Bahram Refa from Orange County and Mahin Hakimian from L.A. Aunt Azita Refa from Orange County and Uncle Danny & Aunt Gita from LA attended as did Uncle Kami and his fiancée Lisa Lamb who live in Orange County.

Her cousins Josh and Shaina Navi and Yvette Ravee helped celebrate as did Aunt Giti and Uncle Albert Afrah and Uncle Farshad Tabibian.

Through Yavneh, she and her classmates collected money for the Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital in Palo Alto. Congregation Sinai’s B’nai Mitzvah class has a project to send toiletries to the soldiers to show their appreciation for the job the service men are doing.

Shaina Greenberg, daughter of Marcy & Andrew Greenberg, was called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on December 8 at Congregation Sinai. She is the older sister of Marcus who attends Carden Day School in San Jose and Sinai religious school. Shaina is a seventh grade

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SIMCHAS student at Ida Price Middle School and enjoys playing soccer and volleyball and also likes to dance lyrical and tap. Her mitzvah project with her Sinai classmates focused on recycling. She also undertook her own mitzvah project by setting up a website to help raise funds for the Susan B. Komen foundation.

The service was attended by many friends and family including her grandparents, Jess & Rhoda Novick from Los Altos, Aunt Jocelyn Novick from Sunnyvale, and Uncle Harris Novick from Vancouver, WA and Aunt Faye Greenberg from San Jose. Other relatives included aunts and cousins from Pittsburg, Washington, D.C. and Los Angeles.

On December 22 at Congregation Sinai Elysa Dombro and her twin brother Jonathan, children of Janet & Steve Dombro, were called to the Torah as B’nai Mitzvah.

They are both seventh grade students at Willow Glen Middle School.

Their older siblings, Ben, Josh and Rachel and her husband Andrew and his family joined in the festivities. In addition six of Janet and Steve’s seven siblings Align your values with your Investment Portfolio

were back in town for the occasion.

These included Aunt Annie & Uncle Cris Cavallaro, Aunt Vicki Fishstrom, Aunt Kathy & Uncle Fred Scott and cousins Sam and Mitchell, Uncle Jack & Astrid Fishstrom and cousins Sarah and Jacob, David Fishstrom, Uncle Andy & Aunt Carol Dombro and Cousins Joe and Levi, grandparents Louis Dombro of Sunnyvale and Nesya Fishstrom of San Jose. Jonathan plays guitar and trumpet and Elysa makes amazing animal sculptures.

Their mitzvah project was the purchase of new stuffed animals for children who were suddenly separated from their families; the distribution is under the auspices of Child Protective Services.

under a chupah made with her father’s tallit. Her sisters, Elisa, Rachel and Nicole were bridesmaids.

The couple met during their first year of law school at UC Hastings in 2007 and hit it off when they realized their shared interests in live music, international travel and delicious Mexican food. Before they knew it, they were honeymooning lawyers in Bali and Vietnam. They currently live in San Francisco with their dog, Ginger.

Please send announcements and photos to Andrea Greyber at agreyber@yahoo.com or phone her at (408) 377-6224.

Weddings Ilana Sabes and Aaron Bergstrom were married at The Mountain Winery in Saratoga on May 5.

Ilana grew up in Saratoga and is the eldest daughter of Robin and the late Chuck Sabes. Aaron is the son of Dean and Sally Bergstrom of La Crescent, MN and the older brother of Laura Kleffman and Jennifer Bergstrom. Ilana walked down the aisle joined by her mother and her brother Michael Sabes. The ceremony took place

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PJ Library© and Jewish Family Services partner for new program

By Mindy Berkowitz PJ Library’s Yellow Comforter Project was a very successful part of JFS’ Embrace-A-Family program. Toys, household goods, clothes and more filled the JFS offices – and the hearts of the families who received them. JFS was honored that PJ Library chose the Embrace-A-Family program to help the children in local Jewish schools to learn all about the joy of giving to others.

One of the special delights of Embrace-A-Family has been that it exemplifies the highest form of tzedakah: the recipients of these beautiful gifts and gift cards do not know their generous donors and the givers of the gifts won’t see the delight on the recipients’ faces.

Program participants couldn’t see that, but what one could see was the joy on our JFS staff’s faces as we marveled over the specially selected goodies the Yellow Comforter Project brought.

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f r 55+ The Villages Jewish Group The Villages Golf and Country Club (VG&CC) is an over-55 active adult community nestled in the Evergreen foothills. Development of the Villages began in the mid-1960s, with agreement from the city to ultimately utilize 500 acres for the country club’s residences and facilities, and to leave the remaining 500 acres in its natural state. That is, to enjoy the wildlife, hiking, and viewing the beauty of the hills.

Today there are eleven individual village areas with over 4200 people living in 2536 residences. The majority of Village residents are retired.

There is a championship 18-hole golf course, pro shop, swimming pools, tennis courts, a fitness center, bocce courts, community facilities, and many special clubs. In addition there is an excellent restaurant and a dining facility suitable for catered weddings, and family parties such as anniversaries or Bar Mitzvahs. The Villages is a fully gated community with 24-hour public safety coverage.

The Villages Jewish Group was organized in the late 1970s, by a few Jewish couples who believed that it was important to provide Shabbat services at the Villages for residents who were unaffiliated with local synagogues or unable to drive long distances, particularly at night. As new people retired, moved to the villages, and membership increased, the Jewish group created its own prayer book using both Hebrew and English, which is still used today.

While the principle objective of providing Shabbat services has continued, the Jewish group now also provides for its members

and guests, a Passover Seder on the second night, a Membership Brunch in the summer and a Hanukkah party.

Sabbath services are held once per month on a Friday night. After the service there is an invited speaker; often a local Rabbi, a community or a professional organization representative, usually followed by a question-and-answer session. The evening is concluded with the traditional Oneg Shabbat. The Oneg offers the opportunity to meet the speaker, socialize and enjoy a variety of desserts and coffee.

High Holy Day services on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are held at the Villages under the leadership of capable Jewish group residents and a professional cantor. Following the afternoon service on Yom Kippur there is a community “Break the Fast.”

Today there are about 175 members of the Villages Jewish group.

While some Village residents still remain members of local synagogues, being a member of the Jewish group provides for an enriched Jewish living experience together with all the other Villages’ advantages during their retirement years. There is an annual membership fee of $7.50.

Recent residents or those considering moving to the Villages, please come to the next Shabbat service.

For information contact David Franklin, current president, (408) 8264754 or Judy Stein, current secretary, (408) 270-0726.

55+ Events SUNDAYS Grandparents Circle Shir Hadash, 7 PM, 2/10, 2/24, 3/10 Parents of adult children who have partnered with someone of another faith are welcome in this three-part series. FREE. The Grandparent’s Circle is a program of the Jewish Outreach Institute. nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751x5 MONDAYS Monday at the Movies APJCC, 1-3 PM, 2/11, 3/18 February: The Twelve Chairs, March: To Be or Not To Be. Light snacks, please RSVP. $5/ donation suggested.

357-7492, lisacg@svjcc.org A Place to Begin: Next Steps for Seniors JFS, 2:30 PM, 1/31, 2/28, 3/28 Learn about aspects of seniors living.

Registration is required. avital@jfssv.org, 357-7450 Duplicate Bridge: Open Game APJCC, 7-9:45 PM This is not a master point tournament and is a non-sanctioned game. FREE. 357-7492, lisacg@svjcc.org

TUESDAYS Current Events APJCC, 10-11:30 AM Lively discussion and stimulating conversation about current news and articles.

357-7492, lisacg@svjcc.org WEDNESDAYS Art History/ Selected Topics (55+) APJCC, 1 PM Each week focuses on a stand-alonen topic and is not dependent on prior sessions. Offered in partnership with West Valley College.

357-7492, lisacg@svjcc.org THURSDAYS Jewish Widows/Widowers/Senior Singles Group APJCC, 1 PM, 2/14, 3/21 (other location) Diverse activites each month, Light refreshments provided; feel free to bring something to share. Larry, 252-2323

FRIDAYS Grandpals Shabbat APJCC, 9:15-10:45 AM, 1/25, 2/8, 2/15, 3/8, 3/22 Explore and impart our rich traditions to children. Storytelling, art, songs, and Shabbat.

Free. lisacg@svjcc.org, 357-7492 Kabbalat Shabbat Lunches (age 55+) APJCC, 12 Noon- 2 PM, 2/15, 3/22 Lunch followed by entertainment.

357-7492, lisacg@svjcc.org SUNDAY, MARCH 3 Transportation Options for Seniors and Their Families Shir Hadash, 1:30 PM Experts from major transportation leaders in Silicon Valley. Reception afterwards.

358-1751, jeffry.young@gmail.com

These events are geared for the 55-and-older crowd, but the events on the following pages are also open to all individuals. Please submit any events specifically for this crowd to amanda@jvalley.org or online at www.jvalley.org under “Submit your event.”

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ONGOING PROGRAMS SUNDAYS Knitzvah JFS, 10:30 AM, 2/17, 3/17 A JFS volunteer group of knitters, crocheters and seamstresses. All ages and levels are welcome.

Cherier@jfssv.org, 357-7467 The Treasures of Siddur Mishkan T’filah Emanu-El, 10:30 AM, 1/27, 2/3, 2/10, 3/3, 3/10, 3/17, 3/24 Discover the beauty and meaning of the prayers that we say. Free and open to all. 292-0939, stephanie@templesanjose.org Death and Dying Class Emanu-El, 10:30 AM, 1/27, 2/3, 2/10 Investigate practices, customs, and concepts surrounding death. Free and open to the public. 292-0939, stephanie@templesanjose.org Teva to You Organic Cooking Class APJCC, 11:30 AM-1:30 PM, 3/3, 4/7, 5/5, 6/2 $25/session/JCC member or $80 for all 4 sessions; $30/session/ JCC non-member or $90 for all 4 sessions. lisacg@svjcc.org, 357-7492 Fun and Fitness with Friends APJCC, 1 PM A social and recreation program for children and teens with special needs. The program provides a structured, and nurturing environment to develop new skills and make friends. Each child is paired with a trained volunteer who provides one-on-one attention. heathw@svjcc.org, 357-7515 Shir Hadash Quilters Shir Hadash, 1:30 PM, 2/10, 3/10 nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751x5 MONDAYS Rabbi Moshe Chafetz: PostRenaissance Torah and Temple APJCC, 9:30-11 AM, 2/4 thru 4/29 (except 2/18, 3/25, 4/1) Rashi. Explore Rabbi Chafetz’s sometimes surprising commentary.

No experience required. $150/ JCC member, $180/non-member.

CJLL@svjcc.org, 357-7411

TUESDAYS Israeli Dance Class Emanu-El, 7:30 PM, 1/29, 2/12, 2/19 Free to attend! Drop-Ins welcome.

Open to the Community. 292-0939 Shemot, Exodus: The Emerging Jewish Nation APJCC, 10-11:30 pm, 2/12 thru 5/7 (except 3/5, 3/26, 4/2) Addresses some of the specific laws and regulations that were to become part of Jewish living as well as their meaning, purpose, and relevance to life today. $150/ JCC member, $180/non-member.

CJLL@svjcc.org, 357-7411 WEDNESDAYS Lunch and Learn Emanu-El, Noon, 2/13, 3/13 New faces welcome. 292-0939, stephanie@templesanjose.org Lunch and Learn, Megillot Emanu-El, Noon, 3/20 Study excerpts from the five Megillot (scrolls). Materials provided. Free. 292-0939, stephanie@templesanjose.org Lunch and Learn, Torah Study Emanu-El, Noon, 1/23, 2/27, 3/27 No previous study required and new faces are welcome. 292-0939, stephanie@templesanjose.org Caregivers Support Group JFS, 5 PM For those caring for chronically ill or disabled loved ones. Reg. req. avitala@jfssv.org, 357-7450 THURSDAYS Silicon Valley Beit Midrash Sinai, 9:30 AM An in-depth study of Jewish thought and practice. Free;drop-ins welcome; no experience necessary. office@sinai-sj.org, 264-8542 Bagels & Babies Emanu-El, 10 AM, 9 Thursdays 1/24 thru 3/21 Baby Sign Language Playgroup.

1/24 is free introductory session. $80/family. 292-0939, stephanie@templesanjose.org Freilache Menschen Luncheon & Program Shir Hadash, 11:30 AM, 2/14, 3/14 shanda@shirhadash.org, 358-1751

datebook

All area codes are 408 unless otherwise noted.

FRIDAYS Talmud Study with Rabbi Pressman Beth David, 8:30 AM This group will continue to discuss Tractate Berakhot (Benedictions).

Newcomers welcome. Free. adulted@beth-david.org, 257-3333 Pirkei Avot Discussion Group: Sayings (Ethics) of the Fathers Beth David, 9:45 AM Explore ancient Jewish wisdom.

Newcomers welcome. FREE adulted@beth-david.org, 257-3333 Alzheimer’s Family Support Group Shir Hadash, 10 AM, 2/8, 3/8 Open to the public. 358-1751x5, nadine@shirhadash.org Tot Shabbat Emanu-El, 6 PM, 2/15, 3/15 These brief services feature upbeat songs, a short story, and a talk on the bimah. Perfect for families with young children. Followed by a potluck. membership@ templesanjose.org, 292-0939

Family Service for K-2nd Grades Sinai, 10:30 AM, 1/26 Participatory, friendly service for families to introduce kids and parents to the Shabbat service.

Hebrew knowledge not required. office@sinai-sj.org, 264-8542 Torah ‘n Tefillah for 3rd-7th Grades Sinai, 10:30 AM, 1/26 Learn new melodies, explore Shabbat teachings, and hear engaging stories in this studentled junior congregation service. educator@sinai-sj.org, 284-8542 Haverim Beth David, 10:30 AM, 2/9, 3/23 Haverim means “friends”, and these services are for K-3rd graders to celebrate. biran@beth-david.org, 257-3333 Tot Shabbat Beth David, 11 AM, 1/26, 2/9, 2/23 Parent-led service for children 0-5. ohriner@beth-david.org, 257-3333

Mussar Matters Beth David, Pajama Shabbat 1:30, 2/16, 3/16 Beth David, 6 PM, 2/15, 3/15 In recent years, the Mussar This mini Kabbalat Shabbat service Movement, with its emphasis is geared towards tots (ages 0-5) on character and ethical and will feature songs, puppets, responsiveness, has been felt, story time, plus a kid-friendly rediscovered by the Jewish world.

Shabbat dinner! A casual night for 257-3333, Adulted@beth-david.org all! Cost for dinner: $10/adult,$2/ child (3 and up);kids under 3 eat Building Blocks of Jewish Prayer free! RSVP by the Wed. before: with Rabbi Ohriner biran@beth-david.org, 257-3333 Beth David, 1:30 PM, 2/2, 3/2 Look at the meaning of the prayers.

Shabbat Mishpaha adulted@beth-david.org, 257-3333 Beth David, 6:30 PM, 2/1, 3/1 Welcome Shabbat with song, story UPCOMING EVENTS and dance. biran@beth-david.org, 257-3333 SATURDAY, JANUARY 26 Tu B’Shevat Community SATURDAYS Youth Congregation (Grades 4-7) Shabbat Service – “A Fresh Take Beth David, 10 AM, 1/26, 2/9, 3/9 on Tu B’Shevat” Shir Hadash, 10:30 AM Students lead prayers, read from the Torah, and play learning/Jewish Prayers and readings to mark the New Year of the Trees. Learn about trivia games. Finishes with treats Jewish teachings on sustainability and kiddush! 257-3333, and celebrate the beauty and biran@beth-david.org wonder of the world. 358-1751x5, nadine@shirhadash.org

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Tu B’Shevat Seder Beth David, 11:15 AM Two separate seders, one for children and one for adults.

Explore the kabbalistic understanding of various kinds of fruit and their relationship to human qualities, discuss ways in which faith requires us to be better stewards of our planet, sing songs to honor the festival, and nosh on delicious fruits and nuts.

After the approximately 45-minute seders, join in at a communal lunch followed by a brief Musaf service. biran@beth-david.org, 257-3333

Robert Levinson Memorial Lecture: Dr. Jonathan Sarna – The Origins of American Jewish Politics: General Grant and the Jews in 1868 SJSU, 5 PM Dr. Jonathan Sarna is the Joseph H. & Belle R. Braun Professor of American Jewish History at Brandeis University and Chief Historian of the new National Museum of American Jewish History. This event is co-sponsored by the Burdick Military History Project and Hillel of Silicon Valley.

Victoria.Harrison@sjsu.edu

Mingling, Merriment and Mitzvah!

Emanu-El, 7 PM Havdala, guided wine tasting, light refreshments, Israeli and international folk dancing for singles aged 40-70. $5 & canned goods. admin@templesanjose.org, 292-0939

Nature and Environment in Israel Beth David, 7:30 PM Outreach Director Michelle Levine, of the American Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel (ASPNI), reviews Israel’s natural treasures, recent environmental issues, and projects throughout Israel. A small donation to Adult Education is requested. adulted@beth-david.org, 257-3333

SUNDAY, JANUARY 27 Continuting the Conversation on Clutter Shir Hadash, 10 AM Continue the “Conversation on Clutter.” nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751x5 Gan Aviv Preschool Open House SPHDS, 10 AM Fun art, music, dance and snack making. Meet teachers and explore classrooms. ganaviv@sphds.org, 738-3060 New Member Event Shir Hadash, Noon nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 Jewbilee!

APJCC, 1 PM Celebrate Jewish life and learning!

Join rabbis, artists and educators for an afternoon of classes and performances. $10/adult, $7/child.

CJLL@svjcc.org, 357-7411 TUESDAY, JANUARY 29 AARP Renewal Course APJCC, 9 AM $12/AARP member, $14/nonAARP member. lisacg@svjcc.org, 357-7492

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY Celebrate! Silver to Gold Levy Family Campus, 6:30 PM Honoring Jyl Jurman’s 25 years of service to the community. Dinner, dessert and dancing with The Joe Sharino Band, entertainment by The Capital Steps. $95/person.

Chairs: Bonnie Slavitt Moore and Judy Levin. 357-7501, giving.jvalley.org/events SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Adult B’nai Mitzvah Shir Hadash, 9:30 AM This 18-month program continues through May 2014 when the Adult B’nai Mitzvah will be celebrated. $75/books and materials, $150/ service expenses. 358-1751x7, patty@shirhadash.org

tefillin. The World Wide Wrap is a program of the Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs. Free. A light breakfast will be served following the program. Office@sinai-sj.org, 264-8542 Book Group – “The Invisible Bridge” by Julie Orringer Shir Hadash, 10:45 AM New members welcome.

Participants are responsible for their own books. Facilitators: Rena Alisa and Diane Goldman 3581751x5, nadine@shirhadash.org Sisterhood Event – “Women and Our Image” Shir Hadash, 2 PM Contact Davida Rosenbaum for more information. 358-1751, board-sisterhood@shirhadash.org MONDAY, FEBRUARY 4 Hebrew Reading Crash Course Level 1 APJCC, Noon 5-session course with Rabbi Ilana Baird. Free. jenessa@svjcc.org, 357-7411 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5 Preschool Open House Emanu-El, 5 PM Applications for Summer and Fall.

293-8660, barbara@templesanjose.org THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7 Visiting Author: Cantor Lisa Levine APJCC, 7 PM “Yoga Shalom” combines Jewish worship & yoga practice. Includes short yoga demo & discussion. $5/member; $7/non-member. jenessa@svjcc.org, 357-7411

Nursery School Open House Sinai, 10 AM Miki Gurantz: director@ sinainurseryschool.org, 264-8486

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9 Book Discussion Beth David, 1:30 PM “Sacred Trash: the Lost and Found World of the Cairo Geniza,” by Adina Hoffman and Peter Cole.

Adults and teens welcome. adulted@beth-david.org, 257-3333

World Wide Wrap – Tefillin workshop with Rabbi Berkenwald Sinai, 10 AM Men, women, and children of all ages will join Jews around the world on this day to learn about and fulfill the mitvzah of wrapping

Wise Son’s Deli – Poker, Pastrami, Mahj, and More!

Shir Hadash, 5:30 PM Poker, mahjong, bridge, Rumycube, Scrabble, and more!

Parallel children’s programs. nadine@shirhadash.org, 3581751x5

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Super Sunday Levy Family Campus, 9 AM Make calls at this annual event to benefit Jewish agencies. Chairs: Renee and Howard Fine, Alisa Israel Goldberg and Harold Goldberg. michellen@jvalley.org, 357-7508 Sunday Seminar Beth David, 10:30 AM “Diaspora and Homeland: Jewish Perspectives in the Greco-Roman Era.” Dr. Erich Gruen explores the dilemma of Jews in the Diaspora.

A small donation is requested. adulted@beth-david.org, 257-3333 Israel Trip Preliminary Meeting Shir Hadash, 3:30 PM Congregational Trip to Israel – October 27 to November 7.

Explore interests as a group. Future study preparation sessions are also planned. nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751x5 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 14 Woman’s Study Group with Rabbi Aron – “The Norton Anthology of Jewish-American Literature” Shir Hadash, 10:30 AM patty@shirhadash.org, 358-1751x7 SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 17 Mah Jongg Beth David, 10 AM Tournament Mah Jongg with prizes and lunch! 257-3333, sisterhood@beth-david.org Jewish Girl Scouts Overnight Camping Sinai, 1 PM Camping Badge: Overnight Camping at Girl Scouts Camp in Santa Cruz Mountains for Junior Girl Scouts (Grades 2-4). girlscouts@sinai-sj.org, 264-8542 Back to Camp – Movie Night APJCC, 4 PM Learn more about APJCC Summer Camp, enjoy camp activities, pasta dinner, and a movie! Agreat chance for new and returning families to meet and interact with camp staff, ask questions, and learn what’s new. camp@svjcc.org, 357-7416

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23 Young Families Purim Service Shir Hadash, 5:30 PM Geared to the Tot Shabbat crowd (children under 8 & families).

Includes a short Purim play.

Groggers provided or bring your own. Costumes encouraged. 3581751x5, nadine@shirhadash.org

Club 345, JYG, SHAGY – Purim Carnival Shir Hadash, 11 AM shanda@shirhadash.org, 358-1751

Purim Thriller Dance Party Emanu-El, 6 PM Purim is going 80s and the hits will be from the decade of neon, big hair, Spandex, Madonna and Risky Business! On-site babysitting (please reserve). $10/in advance, $15/at the door. Free/adult under 29. stephanie@templesanjose.org, 292-0939

Purim Carnival Beth David, 11 AM Come in costume! Purim singalong, games and prizes, arts & crafts, silent auction, Queen Esther’s Kitchen featuring homemade Hamantaschen. 2573333, hebrewhigh@beth-david.org

Tot Purim Shir Hadash, 6 PM nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 Purim Persian Dinner Shir Hadash, 6:15 PM Persian food $15/adult, $7/child(3 to 7) Pizza $5/child. 358-1751x5, nadine@shirhadash.org 5773/2013 Purim Extravaganza and Megillah Reading Sinai, 6:37 PM Live music performance, complete Megillah reading at 6:37 pm.

Free. Music, groggers, libations and hamentashen provided. All welcome. Office@sinai-sj.org, 264-8542 South Bay Teen Idol – SemiFinals APJCC, 7 PM diana@svjcc.org, 357-7431 Erev Purim Megillah Reading Beth David, 7 PM biran@beth-david.org, 257-3333 Purim Service & Megillah Reading Shir Hadash, 7:30 PM nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 Purim Schpiel Shir Hadash, 8:30 PM nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 24 Family Megillah Reading Beth David, 9 AM Includes Kitah Zayin Purimspeil and abridged Megillah reading. biran@beth-david.org, 257-3333

Purim Puppet Show Sinai, 11 AM Free. All welcome. 264-8542, Office@sinai-sj.org

Purim Carnival Sinai, 11:30 AM Games, arts and crafts, potato sack races, tug-a-war; bounce jump house, bungee run, body bopper and more! Game tickets, Kosher Persian barbecue and hot dogs available for purchase. No RSVP required. Come in costume.

Office@sinai-sj.org, 264-8542 Purim Carnival Shir Hadash, Noon Games, bounce house, super slide, face painting, animal corner, balloon twisting, and more! Come in costume and win prizes! $15 wristband for unlimited playtime ($5 for preschoolers). Buy your wristband! Everyone is welcome! shanda@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25 Conversational Hebrew with Yael Karmi Shir Hadash, 7 PM The focus will be on speaking and on topics that would come up during a visit or which illustrate Israeli culture. Materials provided. $50/person/4-week session. nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28 PJ Library and Hillel Bake Hallah to Fight Hunger SV Hillel, 4 PM Each child will take home an individual Hallah and will learn about and help with a nationwide, student-sponsored hunger initiative. RSVP by 2/26. 3577509, rabbialexander@jvalley.org

SATURDAY, MARCH 2 2nd Annual Hamantaschen Ball Beth David, 7 PM Music of the 40s, 50s, and 60s by Wally’s Swing World Cocktail Combo. $18/in advance,$25/at the door. Hors d’oeuvres & desserts.

257-3333, adulted@beth-david.org SUNDAY, MARCH 3 “Passing on Gefilte Fish” with Abra Greenspan – Exploring the World of Judaism Shir Hadash, 9:30 AM “Passing on Gefilte Fish: A frank exploration of why we want our children to love being Jewish, what that means, and how we do it” Babysitting will be available. nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751 FRIDAY, MARCH 8 Shabbat 2.0 Service with speaker Fred Rosenbaum Shir Hadash, 8 PM Focus on famous Jewish trials.3581751x5, nadine@shirhadash.org SATURDAY, MARCH 9 Service & Adult B’nai Mitzvah Reunion with Fred Rosenbaum Shir Hadash, 10:30 AM 100th anniversary of two trials – Kiev resident Mendel Beilus & Leo Frank. 358-1751x5, nadine@shirhadash.org Book Discussion Beth David, 1:30 PM “Palestine Betrayed,” by Efraim Karsh, led by Marty Sherman. adulted@beth-david.org, 257-3333 Music, Magic & Mirth Sinai, 7:30 PM Exceptional entertainment featuring renowned magicians, a nationally acclaimed comedian, and live band. Fabulous hors d’oeuvres and desert. Silent auction items. $36/in advance.

Reserved seating: $100/person www.sinai-sj.org, 264-8542 SUNDAY, MARCH 10 Hebrews at War – The Military History of Ancient Jews Beth David, 10:30 AM Dr. Jonathan Roth of San Jose State University’s History Department discusses the involvement of Jews in ancient armies and wars during Classical Antiquity. adulted@beth-david.org, 257-3333

Club 345 – Chocolate Seder Shir Hadash, Noon shanda@shirhadash.org, 3581751x2 Junior Youth Group (JYG) – Bowling for Tzedakah Shir Hadash, 4 PM shanda@shirhadash.org, 3581751x2 Sisterhood Book Club Sinai, 7:30 PM “The House at Tyneford” by Natasha Solomons. 264-8542, Sisterhood@sinai-sj.org WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13 Men’s Club Speaker Series Shir Hadash, 7:30 PM nadine@shirhadash.org, 358-1751x5 THURSDAY, MARCH 14 Visiting Author: Lisa Klug APJCC, 7 PM jenessa@svjcc.org, 357-7411

---------------------------------SAVE THE DATES Hillel Pillars of the Community 2013 Sunday, March 17, 11 AM Community Freedom Seder Sunday, March 31, 3 PM Beth David Milestones and Memories 50th Anniversary Sunday, April 7, 1 PM

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.

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fr m the rabbis Working and preserving: A Jewish perspective on environmentalism

By Rabbi Philip Ohriner Almost 45 years ago, Dr. Lynn White Jr. published his well-known article, “The Historic Roots of Our Ecologic Crisis,” placing much of the blame on the shoulders of Western religion. White believed the Bible compels us to view nature as nothing more than a collection of raw materials existing solely for human exploitation. White wrote: “What people do about their ecology depends on what they think about themselves in relation to things around them.

Human ecology is deeply conditioned by belief about our nature and destiny— that is, by religion….Since the roots of our trouble are so largely religious, the remedy must also be essentially religious, whether we call it that or not. We must rethink and re-feel our nature and destiny.”

While criticized for his interpretation of Biblical passages, White’s article served as a catalyst for an entire literature on religion and the environment and brought new attention to Judaism’s approach to environmental concerns. At the same time, Jewish agencies, synagogues, and new Jewish non-profits began investing in faith-based approaches to preserving and healing our planet.

It is always right around this time of year that I am reminded of Judaism’s deep concern for the environment. Tu B’Shevat, the holiday marking the New Year for trees, has morphed into a Jewish “Earth Day,” providing us with an opportunity to evaluate the ways in which ecological concern manifests in our daily lives. It is also an occasion to reconsider our collective responsibility to the environment from a Jewish perspective.

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There are numerous laws about our treatment of the environment, ranging from appropriate urban planning to the obligation to preserve fruit-bearing trees. However, Judaism’s seminal text on environmentalism comes from the creation narrative of Genesis itself. The Torah tells us that Adam’s mission in the Garden of Eden is l’ovdah ul’shomrah “to work it and to preserve it.” In “working” we are obligated to cultivate the land, to utilize natural resources to produce and develop. Yet, there is an underlying danger. Overcultivation and the exploitation of resources will lead us to catastrophe, as we know too well. Therefore, there is a secondary role for us as human beings. We must also “preserve” and guard the environment. We must be vigilant that our “work” does not destroy our world. We are adjured to be stewards of the earth for its true owner, G-d.

The implications of our success in this balancing act are significant and beautifully depicted in a midrash on the book of Ecclesiastes: When the Holy Blessed One created the first Adam, G-d showed Adam all the trees of the Garden of Eden and said: “See My works, how lovely they are, how fine they are. All I created, I created for you. Take care not to corrupt or destroy My world, for if you ruin it, there is no one to come after you to put it right!”

Working towards environmental sustainability as G-d’s stewards of our planet is a religious obligation incumbent upon us all and as Rabbi Tarfon teaches, “the day is short and the work is great.” Judaism asserts that we have an obligation to utilize our natural resources wisely, both at home and at work.

We must be good guardians of our world, ever conscious of our individual and collective impact on our planet. What are some things you and your family do at home to preserve our natural resources? What are some additional steps you might take to help remedy the ecological issues confronting our world today?

How might you more fully embrace your role as a steward of the earth?

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Question: How can I teach my child to pray, when I don’t understand the prayers in the siddur myself?

fr m the rabbis

By Rabbi Laurie Hahn Tapper, Yavneh Day School Giving your child a spiritual practice is a tremendous gift, and it is wonderful that you are thoughtful about this aspect of parenting. Teaching children to pray is often less about the precise words of the written prayers and more about helping them value their inner lives. In the same way that you help your children develop their cognitive, emotional and musical intelligences, you can help them cultivate a spiritual intelligence as well. Alongside their school backpack, with its laptop, notebooks, pens and pencils, you can help them prepare their spiritual backpack, filled with an inclination to pause and reflect; an ability to be silent and to sing; a tendency to take in life’s moments and express gratitude; an openness to connect with what is beyond themselves; a sense of wonder; and a skill to frame these thoughts and feelings in both their own words as well as the ancient words given to us by generations past.

One great place to start this process is to help children recognize when they have experiences of deep emotion and aren’t able to express the emotion or articulate an adequate response. Feelings of great sadness, ebullient joy, deep confusion, profound amazement and heart-felt gratitude are all openings to the possibility of prayer. Encouraging our children to be mindful of these moments and then providing them with the tools they need to give expression to these feelings such as with simple Jewish phrases or blessings, helping them deepen their connection to their inner soul and that which is beyond their individual world. We have so many different Jewish ways to do this. If we can help them down this path, they will both experience a greater connection to the words of prayer expressed by Jews before them and within this space they will be able to add their own voices and prayers to the Jewish community of the present.

The following are a few suggestions of daily occurrences that lend themselves to introducing our children to living with spiritual awareness.

Children’s firsts Because children have so many firsts, this is an easy place to start. When a child does something for the first time, parent and child alike are overwhelmed with pride, amazement and gratitude. It is a moment to savor, to mark, to remember. When we teach our children that such moments deserve a blessing we teach them the value of pausing and giving thanks for the many steps that allowed them to reach this moment. Ritualizing the “first” with a prayer elevates the accomplishment and simultaneously teaches children humility for their new found ability.

Whether it’s your two-year-old’s first time using the potty, your six-yearold’s first time snapping her fingers, or your ten-year old’s first home run in Little League, these “firsts” give us the opportunity to teach our children that prayer can be a way to express the overwhelming emotion of thanks and pride they feel by teaching them a beautiful Jewish prayer.

Called the She’hechiyanu, this blessing is used to mark occasions like holidays and life-cycle rituals and can be said in response to the miraculous firsts of the everyday as well.

Starting the day The opening prayers of the morning service found in most prayer books contain blessings that express thanks for being alive. Whether they focus on being thankful for our physical body and the fact that it functions, a

Rabbi Laurie Hahn Tapper with Yavneh students

sanctuary in which to gather, or the clothes on our backs, the core idea in each of these blessings is being grateful for what you have. One doesn’t need to know all the words of these prayers to teach a child to strive to start the day with a disposition of gratitude. In fact, it may be more meaningful for you to create your own family morning ritual, whether it’s connected to eating cereal together, taking a brief pause after everyone has their backpacks and shoes on, or linked to the drive to school -- take a moment each day and say one sentence -- or even one word -- to say what you’re thankful for that morning. As your child gets older, you can teach them some of the specific blessings or phrases from the prayer book itself. But it might be more meaningful to start first with one’s own inspiration.

Ending the day Times of transition can be scary and confusing. Bedtime is perhaps the most intense, everyday moment of change for children. For many, going from a state of being awake with family to being asleep alone is accompanied by fear and anxiety. As parents, many of us naturally create bedtime rituals to help our child ease into the night. Our bedtime rituals can be another opportunity to cultivate spiritual intelligence, whether connected to a prayer for peaceful sleep, giving thanks for the day that has just ended, or expressing hopes related to the next day. By using this time with your child as an opportunity for prayer, you can teach your child something incredibly important: when going through a transition in life, whether they are afraid or not, prayer can ease a change, even allowing it to become a sacred moment. If interested, there are many books and websites that offer unique understandings of a traditional nighttime prayer called the Bedtime Shma.

At this point you might be thinking, “Cultivating a spiritual intelligence is nice and all, but I still want my children to know traditional Jewish prayers, at least so they won’t be lost in synagogue.” If this is the case, the best strategy is practice. Like many things, prayer is best learned through practice. We are fortunate to have a remarkable array of flavors of Judaism with so many different styles and models of prayer. While traditional Jewish prayer can be done on your own, the optimal experience is in community, so go to different services, on different days and at different times of day, and hopefully you and your child will find modes and expressions that work for you.

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obituaries BERNARD AXELRAD

August 31, 1925 – December 5, 2012

include Julian Ouellette, Adam and Zachary Kramer, Nicole, Cole and India Kiefer, and Josh and Lauren Higgins. She was predeceased by her grandson Darin Higgins and her husband Frank.

Bernard Joseph Axelrad passed away peacefully on December 5 from multiple myeloma. He was preceded in death by his wife Lee (Perlstein) of 47 years. Sally Ravel, his wife of 14 years, was by his side.

Jan Kiefer was vibrant, active and always entertaining. Those in the community who didn’t know her might have seen her driving her convertible with her famous license plate EZ Par smiling with her white hair blowing in the wind.

Born in Salt Lake City, UT, he spent two years as an infantry lieutenant in Korea. He then returned to the University of Utah to finish his medical school training. While there, he met and married his wife Lee and moved to San Francisco. After residencies at Mt. Zion Hospital and Stanford Hospital in internal medicine, he moved to San Jose. In 1954 he established a private practice which lasted over 36 years. Dr. Axelrad retired in 1990 in order to have more time to focus on painting; he became an award-winning member in the local art community.

A celebration of her life will be held on February 15.

A “renaissance man,” Bernie enjoyed cycling, golf and skiing. He was on the ski patrol and skied at Tahoe, Alta, Colorado and in Europe. He loved good food, wine, traveling and friends. He was an accomplished chef, gardener, woodworker, bridge player and jack-of-all trades who could fix anything.

He was a lifetime member of Temple Emanu-El and is survived by his wife Sally Ravel; daughters Claire and Merle Axelrad; grandsons Noah Berenberg and Marshal Serlin; step-children Teri (Berry) Kane, Stacey (Josh) Abarbanel, and David Ravel; and grandchildren Emily, Alex, Charlie, Chloe and Aliza. A celebration of his life was held January 6 at Saratoga Retirement Community.

Donations in his memory may be made to Temple Emanu-El or Chai House.

JANICE KIEFER

February 4, 1923 – December 6, 2012 Janice Kiefer died peacefully surrounded by her family at age 89 years young. She was born in Nebraska, spent her childhood in Kansas City, MO and received a B.A. in Sociology from the University of Missouri.

Upon his return from service in World War II, Jan met Frank Kiefer to whom she was happily married for 45 years. They were active members of La Rinconada and Monterey Peninsula County Clubs and shared an active life of golf, bridge, travel and wonderful friends. She was a lifetime member of Temple Emanuel Sisterhood and Brandeis. While she was a member of Jewish Family Services, she wrote a book to help immigrants get started in the USA. She translated books into Braille for the blind and finally devoted her last years in service to Chai House.

She is survived by her four children: Alana (Roger) Miller of Hollister, Cheri Kiefer of San Jose, Lujean (David) Seagal of Thousand Oaks, CA and Kip (Chris) of Manhattan Beach, CA. Her surviving grandchildren

Contributions in her memory may be made to the APJCC, Jewish Family Services or Chai House.

Have you recently lost a loved one? Please send obituaries and photos (in JPEG of 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

(408) 292-0939

cemetery@templesanjose.org

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

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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www.jvalley.org

Jewish Professional Directory Attorneys Peter D. Feinberg

Hoge Fenton Jones & Appel 60 S. Market St., Ste 1400 San Jose, CA 95113 (408) 287-9501 pdf@hogefenton.com

www.hogefenton.com/our-people/attorneys/ Feinberg-Peter-D

Practice focused on corporate, M & A and business transactions.

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 Practice focused on 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 Practice focused on complex taxation, corporate strategy, and business succession planning..

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 Practice focused on complex business transactions, estate planning, and family business succession planning.

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.

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

“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

Guggenheim Realty Group, Inc

Law Office of Derryl H. Molina

AMB Designs

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 (408) 942-0852 ambdsgn@pacbell.net www.ambdesigns.com Balloon & Event Décor Any Occasion, we do it all!

Call Amy Blach, your Event Designer

Promote your business or service in the Jewish Professional Directory!

Contact Amanda Glincher: amanda@jvalley.org, (408) 357-7503

www.jvalley.org

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 3.5% APR • No Upfront Fees, No Fee Loans, $417K> Loan>$250K Real Estate #01098186, Mortgage #NMLS31413, Appraisal #AL029181

Senior Services

Christl Denecke

“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.

Financial 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

A Professional Corporation 455 S. Mathilda, Sunnyvale 94086 (408) 736-1566 www.LWWilliamsCPA.com Leonard W. Williams, CPA Elaine Raitt, CPA, Bruce Pajak, CPA, Y. Mary King, CPA Brenda L. George, EA, T. Patricia Cohen, EA, Mary C. Koeppen, EA Tax Planning & Return Preparation for Individuals, Trusts & Estates.

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change the world with just one call Each year, the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley holds a phona-thon to raise money for local and overseas programs. It is an effective way for us to bring everyone together for one purpose: raising funds to support our Jewish community around the world.

super sunday

Sunday, February 10, 2013 The levy Family campus

So, when you get the call, please answer it.

Or, help us make the call. Volunteer from 9 am-12 pm and/or 12:30-3:30 pm Info: 408-358-3033 or visit jvalley.org.

SupEr Sunday ChaIrS: renee & howard Fine alisa Israel Goldberg & harold Goldberg

SpecIal pJ lIbrary Tzedakah eVenT for school-age children of those who volunteer during the 9-12pm shift.

It’s a fun day for the whole family!