JCN

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VOL. 70, #1, December 2009

Filling the Gap Young adults relieve post-college social isolation with Jewish groups p. 22

Meaning over money Local law student makes a not-so-hard choice p. 5

Happy Hanukkah Guide

p. 14

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www.jvalley.org • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • December 2009

December 2009 • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • www.jvalley.org

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www.jvalley.org • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • December 2009

Cecily Ruttenberg Executive Editor Pat Bergman Editorial Assistant Andrea Greyber Simchas Editor Pat Bergman Datebook Editor Published six times a year by the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley. Subscription Price: $36 per year*. All articles must be submitted typed, double-spaced, before the deadline shown on this page. We reserve the right to edit all copy. The JCN N is not responsible for the content of paid advertising. Send copy to Jewish Community News, 14855 Oka Rd., Suite 200, Los Gatos, CA 95032. Telephone: (408) 431-0936. Fax: (408) 356-0733. e-mail: cecily@jvalley.org For: Billing questions call Michelle Ryder (408) 357-7505 For: Advertising call Lori Cinnamon (408) 406-0059 For: Circulation call Danelle Rhiner (408) 358-3033 Assoc. Member: American Jewish Press Association Subscriber: Jewish Telegraphic Agency

DEADLINES: EDITORIAL: Dec. 1

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ADVERTISING: Dec. 8, 2009

CANDLELIGHTING Fri., Nov. 20..............................4:36 p.m. Fri., Nov. 27..............................4:33 p.m. Fri., Dec. 4................................4:32 p.m. Fri., Dec. 11..............................4:32 p.m.

Fri., Dec. 18................................4:34 p.m. Fri., Dec. 25................................4:38 p.m. Fri., Jan. 1...................................4:43 p.m. Fri., Jan. 8...................................4:49 p.m.

Letters to the Editor Mel Jacobs, z''l, l was first president of Shir Hadash

Whoops!

I was thrilled to see the 50-year anniversary of the Jewish Community News so beautifully chronicled in the October 2009 edition of the paper. However, page 18 contains a factual error. It is true that Shir Hadash was founded in 1980, but the picture above the caption indicating Gail Long as the first president of the temple is incorrect. The first president of Shir Hadash was Mel Jacobs, z”l. Mel set the foundation for what today is a thriving community. Gail Long Past-President Congregation Shir Hadash

In the October 2009 50th Anniversarty issue of the JCN, N this historical photo of a longtime contributor to the South Bay Jewish Community was inadvertantly omitted. Can you guess who it is?

Fagie Rosen

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December 2009 • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • www.jvalley.org

PJ Library brings Chanukah to Santana Row PJ Library, a program of the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley that donates free Jewish books to young children, is coming to Santana Row this year! Working with Jewish organizations in the community, PJ library has organized a nightly, public Chanukah candle lighting starting on Friday, December 11. Candle lighting, stories and songs will take place on the performance platform at Park Valencia next to Maggiano's and Urban Outfitters, on Olin Avenue. This year, children will have the opportunity to delight in their own traditions in a public space. For many, that is a very empowering and happy experience. Representatives of various Jewish organizations will be working with The PJ Library Program® to host a candle lighting and half-hour ceremony each day of Chanukah. The times are listed below. Friday, Dec. 11, 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13 - Thurs., Dec. 17, 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18, 3:30 p.m. The PJ Library Program® will also be participating in Santana Row's monthly “Mommy and Me” event, on Tuesday, Dec. 8, from 10 a.m. to noon, at CineArts at Santana Row, Olsen Drive and Winchester Boulevard, San Jose. For more information, please call (408) 358-3033.

World War II Vet to speak on Jewish recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor Temple Emanu-El Sisterhood is pleased to present Herb Kwart on Thursday, January 21, at 7:30 p.m. Kwart was a bombardier in World War II and flew 10 missions. He was the only survivor from his squadron. Now 88 years old, Herb Kwart Kwart has researched prominent Jews who served in the military. His presentation on January 21 will be about the 17 Jewish recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor since the time of George Washington. This event at Temple Emanu-El will include a light reception following the discussion. Donations would be appreciated. RSVP to (408) 292-0939 or admin@templesanjose.org. 

Rabbi Magat speaks on the December dilemma On Sunday, December 6, at 11:30 a.m., Temple Emanu-El's Rabbi Magat will lead a discussion on the challenges often faced by parents (particularly in interfaith families) in connection with the winter holidays. The following week, Sunday, December 13, also at 11:30 a.m., Rabbi Magat will talk about the Chanukah stories we don’t tell our children. What really happened with the Maccabees? RSVP to the Temple office, (408) 292-0939. 

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Local News Local law student chooses meaning over money By Cecily Ruttenberg

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lana Eydus, 23, a third-year law student at Santa Clara University, will graduate at the end of next year with nearly a hundred-thousand dollars in student loans. But rather than follow the traditional path into a corporate law firm where a six-figure salary would help pay down her loans, Eydus will be opting for something less lucrative—at least financially. “A lot of law students realize now, that they want a balance between their professional life and personal life. They want something they can be proud of at the end of the day,” said Eydus. “I realized the potential of Jewish advocacy and decided to get involved.” This decision has become increasingly clear for Eydus. In the middle of November she left a position as a law clerk for a business litigation firm to work for the Jewish Community Relations Council of the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley. While she'll earn less than half her old salary, Eydus says the choice was not difficult. “I just wasn't thrilled with what I was doing,” said Eydus, who explained she researched new cases, drafted court motions and revised settlement offers. “It just wasn't what I envisioned myself doing in 5 or 10 years, it's more what's standard to do in law school to go work for a lawyer or a judge and I wanted to see what else was there.” Eydus is part of a relatively small minority of law school students that seek, or plan to seek work outside of the private sector. In 2007 and 2008, just 4 percent of Santa Clara University law graduates became employed in public interest law. Vicki Huebner, assistant dean for SCU's law career services, says those numbers may rise slightly as the down economy forces graduates to be flexible about what jobs they will take. However, “the overwhelming majority of students are looking for something in the private sector, either a private firm or a corporation,” said Huebner. Adds Huebner, “When I talk to a student, it's basically, 'get me employed, I have to pay my rent, I have to pay my loans.' In their third year students have a mandatory meeting with financial aid that basically tells them how much they will have to pay, and I always know when they have that meeting because there's a line of people waiting outside my office waiting to meet with me with a panicked look in their face.” Eydus says she's just focusing on

Third year law student Ilana Eydus sets up for her new job at the Jewish Community Relations Council of Silicon Valley. school and working at her internships and believes the rest will fall into place. “I understand the weight of my loans but I've evaluated goals in my life,” she said. “I want to enter into a sector where I will be motivated and proud of my work.” Eydus also credits her background for her motivation to work as an attorney in the Jewish community. As a "refusnik" she was able to immigrate to the Untied States from Russia due to years of lobbying by the Jewish community. Rather than worrying about money, Eydus is focusing on the nation's children that are going hungry and how she can help. This will be the scope of her work during her time at JCRC. Her salary was funded through a grant from Mazon, a national nonprofit agency that allocates donations from the Jewish community to prevent and alleviate hunger among people of all faiths and backgrounds. Diane Fisher, the director of JCRC, says having Eydus on staff will provide invaluable attention towards the antihunger initiative. “It definitely increases our bandwidth to do continuous antipoverty and anti-hunger work,” said Fisher.

Eydus will use the writing and analysis skills she has mastered in law school to write about issues on JCRC's webpage, draft an anti-hunger resolution for an upcoming conference and write letters to the editor. She will also be asked to analyze current events related to federatl initiatives on poverty, hunger and the economy. Eydus will also be out in the field, at Second Harvest Food Bank locations registering low-income families for food stamps and educating them on how to get their needs met. “This is an asset that we happen to have Ilana. She's an excellent writer and because of her background she's had to do a lot of analysis of current events,” said Fisher. For Eydus, working in the Jewish community is somewhat of a homecoming. She grew up in the South Bay and her family attended Kol Emeth in Palo Alto. She attended Yavneh Day School, Harker School, and Claremont-McKenna in Los Angeles before returning to Santa Clara for law school. “I wanted to be involved in something bigger and bring it back to the Jewish community,” said Eydus. “I wanted to make the Jewish community more a part of my life.” 

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www.jvalley.org • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • December 2009

Community Photos

Yali Corea-Levy and Neta Hamou

Elana Moussa, Jason Prosnitz and Avi Moussa

Silicon Valley Connect meets Mitzvah on the Rocks: A Charitable Event with Great Drinks! Young Adults from across the Bay Area gathered on October 21 for the first-ever collaborated bar night between Jewish Federation’s Young Adult Division and Mitzvah on the Rocks dynamic trio, Ronny Beer, Ryan Cohen and Jake Hamlin. Over $1,200 was raised and all proceeds benefited The Friendship Circle, a local non-profit aiding families with special needs children. With 130 people in attendance, the partnership was a success and is expected to team up again to continue providing fantastic atmospheres and generosity across the bay.

Congregation Sinai members took their pets to services October 18 for the synagogue's annual Animal Celebration.

Nationally renowned speaker Rabbi Joseph Telushkin signs copies of his book, “Jewish Wisdom,” at the APJCC on November 5. More than 250 people came to hear Rabbi Telushkin speak on the topic of “Tzedakah Is Not Charity” as part of the One Community One Book program. For a list of upcoming lectures and other One Community One Book events, see www.svjcc.org/book.

Jewish Federation Major Gifts Dinner Doing good work in the world! Yavneh Day School students participated in a Teshuvathon during the 10 days between Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur. Throughout the week each grade counted how many acts of teshuvah, tzedakah and t'fillah they could perform. They not only tallied up their acts but they also discussed their meaning and purpose. Here 8th grader Rachelle Fishbin leads a group of first graders at the “Whirlpool of Repentence” at which the students washed away their mistakes from the year before.

Harold Goldberg, JRCR co-chair, Dan Rodriguez and County Supervisor candidate Forrest Williams toured a green job training site. This local event was part of a national campaign convened by the Jewish Council for Public Affairs and Catholic Charities, and supported by 34 other faith organizations across the country, who joined together to advocate for decent-paying jobs and training for low-income people in the emerging green economy.

Al Guggenheim, Alan and Pat Werba, Maureen Ellenberg and guest speaker Congressman Adam Schiff

Howard May and hostess, Ruth Fletcher

Steve and Helaine Green, Joel Rubnitz and Al Guggenheim

Myra Reinhard with Eric and Sheryl Lewis

Thirty guests were treated to a magnificient evening at the home of Michael and Ruth Fletcher. The keynote speaker was Congressman Adam Schiff. The evening honored the Federation's most generous contributors.

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Local Briefs Congregation Emeth hosts Holocaust survivor On Wednesday, December 16, at 7:30 p.m., Emeth's Sisterhood will host guest speaker Magda Brown from the Skokie, Illinois Holocaust Museum with her amazing story as a Holocaust Survivor. Seating will Magda Brown be on a first-come basis. A donation to the museum will be appreciated. Congregation Emeth is at 17835 Monterey St., Morgan Hill, and the phone is (408) 778-8200. 

Gan Liran dedicated at Shir Hadash

Congregation Am Echad sets Founders Dinner To celebrate the fortieth anniversary of its founding and twenty years in its Willow Glen location, Congregation Am Echad will hold a Founders Dinner on January 14 at the Santa Clara Convention Center. The congregation invites the community to join the celebration. The event honors Jim and Jimmi Roberts for their leadership and support in building every aspect of the South Bay Jewish community. The Roberts reared two children in the Am Echad community and recently welcomed their first grandchild. Jim has served as president of the congregation and on the board of South Peninsula Hebrew Day School. Jimmi is active in chesed, mikveh, and chevra kadisha. As one congregant said, “They do so much quietly, without fanfare, and reach out to give assistance.” The Roberts are best loved for their many years of hachnasat orchim—welcoming guests into their home for Shabbos and holidays. They

Temple Emanu El hires executive director Los Gatos Mayor Mike Wasserman helped preschoolers at Shir Hadash's Early Childhood Center cut a ribbon of paper dolls during the dedication of the facility on October 7. The children's garden and play yard, which opened with the new preschool facility this fall, are in memory of Liran Saadia, the first Israel soldier to be lost in the recent Lebanon War. Gan Liran, the Liran Garden, is endowed by the family of Beryl Grace and Jonathan Rosenberg. Gan Liran expresses the values by which Liran lived. He was passionate about the outdoors. He loved hiking and exploring. His family explains the significance of the name Liran: in addition to its meaning, “my song,” each letter stands for a character trait: lamed d for lechidutt (unity), yod d for yosher (honesty), resh for re’utt (friendship), and nun for netinah (giving). 

Tot Shabbats at Temple Emanu-El The third Friday of the month at 6 p.m. families with young children are invited to celebrate Shabbat at Temple EmanuEl. Upcoming dates are December 18 (when students from the Religious School Kindergarten class will participate) and January 15. Rabbi Dana Magat and Cantor Meeka Simerly lead the service, with songs and blessings. A potluck dinner follows, where families can hang out together, eat and schmooze. These informal services are designed for children through first grade (older siblings are welcome, too). For more information and suggestions on what to bring for the potluck, contact the Temple office, (408) 292-0939. 

Temple Emanu-El of San Jose has hired Drew Barkley as its new executive director. Barkley began in October. A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Barkley comes to Emanu-El after serving as executive director at Temple Beth El in Aptos. He is a member of the National Association for Temple Administration (NATA) Drew Barkley and expects to receive his Fellow of Temple Administration designation in 2010. He recently submitted his thesis, “Implementing An Extraordinary Customer Satisfaction Culture within Synagogues,” for final approval. “I chose to work at Temple Emanu El because of its reputation for being a very loving, caring and intimate community,” said Barkley. “I hope to catalyze membership growth without sacrificing the beautiful personal connections that exist here.” Serving the Jewish community as a synagogue executive director is Barkley's second career. Before that, he managed specialty automobile insurance companies for over twenty years. Barkley has four sons, three of whom are in college. His fourth son is in the U.S. Navy in Guam. Barkley lives in Santa Cruz.  Employment Services Network at Jewish Family Services The JFS SV Employment Network has expanded. In October, monthly meeting were held at congregations Beth David, Emanu-El, and Sinai in partnership with the synagogue teams. JFS SV volunteers

Jim and Jimmi Roberts are honorees for the Congregation Am Echad Founders Dinner.

are true givers. The featured speaker, Rabbi Paysach Krohn, is a highly respected orator in many Jewish communities. His lectures address audiences of various backgrounds and cover a myriad of subjects, including family values and personal growth. To purchase tickets or place an ad in the program, call (408) 267-2591 or email info@amechad.org.  Alan Bricker, Linda Michels, and Dan Weiss facilitate the meetings. These meetings will continue at least through December and possibly into the New Year. These meetings supplement the first and third Tuesday employment network meetings onsite at Jewish Family Services, and the monthly employment network meeting at Congregation Shir Hadash. According to Jim Holley, JFS job developer, “The flow of people seeking employment services from JFS SV is ongoing, and news regarding the employment picture continues to be less than glowing. But we are seeing more people obtaining employment or generating income via newly formed small businesses. It is hard to see a trend here, but it is possible that we are beginning to see some light at the end of a very long and dark tunnel.” For information regarding JFS SV employment services or dates and times of employment network meetings, contact Jim Holley at jimh@jfssv.org or (408) 357-7461. 

JSN holds Young Adult Shabbaton Life a little too crazy these days? Take a time out! Join singles and couples from around the Bay Area for a Young Adults' Shabbat and last day of Chanukah in Palo Alto on December 18 and 19. Spend time in the community, meet new people, and just relax! Shabbat dinner, lunch and classes are included. Home hospitality available, but limited. Friday night will include Kabbalat Shabbat, Shabbat dinner at a private home and an oneg Shabbat. Saturday will include a communal Shabbat lunch and classes. The cost is $36/person, $54/ couple. RSVP required at info@jsn.info or call (650) 493-5764. 

Comparative Religion Course on Buddhism at Shir Hadash Rabbi Joel Fleekop will be teaching a class on Comparative Religion at Shir Hadash on Sundays, January 17 and 24, from 10:45 a.m. to noon. Silicon Valley’s connections to East Asia are deep and varied. But what do we know about the region’s historic faith tradition and Rabbi Fleekop the type of Buddhism practiced by many of our neighbors today? Join Rabbi Fleekop in exploring Buddhism, a rich, ancient, and diverse belief system practiced by half a billion people around the world. This year Shir Hadash will be part of a choir exchange with a local Buddhist community, enabling our members to also experience a cultural exchange with this community. Reservations are required. Please register with Patty Cruz in the Temple office at (408) 358-1751 ext. 7. This course is open to the public. There may be a materials fee. 

Yavneh Day School focuses on diversity within and outside of the Jewish Community

Rabbi Gershom Sizomu with students at Yavneh Day School

Ya v n e h D a y S c h o o l s t u d e n t s , s u r r o u n d e d by Jewish teachers and peers, will reach outside of their community in November to understand other religions. Second graders will work on a banner with children from other local religions to create messages of peace written in English, Hebrew and Arabic. Yavneh's Rabbi Laurie Hahn Tapper discovered this project through her association with a Bay Area interfaith book group, which includes Muslim, Jewish and Christian members. Rabbi Gershom Sizomu, leader of the Ugandan Jewish community, will teach middle school students about the social justice projects Ugandan Jews are doing to support their Christian and Muslim neighbors. Rabbi Hahn Tapper emphasizes that the spirit behind both projects is the same: to connect Jewish students with their broader communities and to connect them with Jews around the world. “We are very privileged to be able to expose our students to diverse cultures within and outside of the Jewish community,” Hahn Tapper observes “Yavneh students are part of a truly global generation, and it is so exciting to see them embrace every new experience with acceptance and positive energy.” 

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Local Jewish war veterans, then and now, displayed Although he wasn't even born at the time, 25-year-old photojournalist Thomas Sanders has taken to heart the importance of remembering WWII veterans. He has photographed war veterans living at Belmont Village retirement communities in Sunnyvale and San Jose, portraying the veterans as they are today, accompanied by personal wartime memorabilia as a reminder of the past. The portraits are displayed alongside the veterans’ stories and thoughts, illustrating the very personal side of warfare. Among the residents featured are two Jewish Americans, Clarence Fine, Navy Lieutenant JG (ret.) and Sol Segall, Army Tech 5 (ret.). Both men felt the weight of duty and answered the call, but like many who serve, they have struggled to come to terms with what that responsibility required of them. Thoughts on the subject range from Fine’s declaration that he never killed anyone, even during the war, to Segall’s focus on the positive experience that saw him through the rest– the birth of his daughter. “The whole project has been greatly appreciated by our residents and their families and every time we have visitors in the building, they slow down to look at the portraits,” said Bob Faris, executive director, Belmont Village of Sunnyvale. “Most people comment about the respect we have shown these men and women by honoring them in such a prominent way.” Belmont Village Senior Living is supporting Sander’s mission with a commission to photograph residents across the country and, to date, almost 300 portraits now hang in 12 Belmont Village communities, in tribute to the veterans who reside there and in honor of all servicemen and women. The portraits are a part of a permanent exhibition. To tour the exhibition at Sunnyvale, please call Cathi or Russ at (408) 720-8498. To tour the exhibition at San Jose, please call Peg or Sheri at (408) 984-4767. 

Clarence Fine, Navy Lieutenant JG (ret.)

Sol Segall, Army Tech 5 (ret.)

“Night of Illusions” features Majinga the Magician Michael Stroud, aka Majinga, is a 12time award-winning magician, consultant, inventor, author and lecturer in the art of magic. He has appeared on radio and television across the U.S., in Japan, Europe, and India and has been featured on a Bill Moyers PBS Special on deception. He has performed as headline entertainer in 12 countries as well as throughout hotels in Las Vegas and at the famous Magic Castle in Hollywood. As an author, his best-selling “Book of Magic” (Klutz Press) has sold over two million copies. When performing for adults, he is known the world over as “Majinga the Magician,” and blends comedy, audience participation, and circus skills

with surprises in special effects. Each show is carefully customized for maximum impact, and he performs many classic magic feats of legerdemain as well as inventions of his own you will see no one else perform. For Beth David, he will perform some special Hebrew magic and comedy in addition to his popular show. Enjoy a one-time only performance at Beth David on Saturday, January 16, from 7-9:30 p.m. Proceeds help fund the congregation's family night of fun! Tickets may be purchased for $15 in advance and $20 at the door. A 4-pack may be purchased in advance for $50. Please make reservations at RSVP@ beth-david.org. 

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www.jvalley.org • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • December 2009

Have a Happy and Healthy

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Shir Hadash presents “Conservation in the 21st century” Congregation Shir Hadash is hosting Professor Gretchen Daily, professor of Biological Sciences at Stanford University, at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, January 13. Daily will present a lecture on Conservation in the 21st Century, explaining why a ‘Noah’s ark’ approach to protecting nature is doomed to fail. Taken alone, nature reserves are too small, too few and subject to change; they will sustain only a tiny fraction of the life support upon which all humanity depends. Conservation must expand into the realms of human enterprise. Leaders are now increasingly recognizing Earth’s lands, forest and waters, as assets that supply climate stabilization, water purification, and flood control--as well as many additional benefits. Around the world, pioneering efforts are aligning economic forces with conservation. The challenge is to develop new policy and finance mechanisms to guide wise investments in Earth’s life support systems. Professor Daily is an ecologist whose work ranges from conservation science,

to environmental policy analysis, to public outreach. She is one of the founders of the Natural C a p i t a l Project and serves as its chief emissary to financial and government leaders. She is working to develop a scientific Professor Gretchen Daily basis—and political support— t for managing Earth’s life supports systems. She has published more than 150 scientific papers and popular articles. Professor Daily serves on the boards of The Nature Conservancy and the Beijer International Institute for Ecological Economics. At Stanford, she is the director of the Center for Conservation Biology. This lecture is free and open to the public. Congregation Shir Hadash is located at 20 Cherry Blossom Lane in Los Gatos. 

Japanese man remembered for saving Jews during Holocaust

Visit us on the internet at www.jvalley.org A large crowd attended Congregation Beth David's ceremony dedicating a street sign in honor of Chiure Sugihara, who rescued thousands of Jews during the Holocaust.

On Sunday, October 25, Congregation Beth David dedicated Sugihara Way in its parking lot in honor of Chiune Sugihara, who rescued thousands of Jews during the Holocaust. He was the Japanese Consul in Kaunas, the temporary capital of Lithuania. With the help of his wife Yukiko, he wrote hundreds of transit visas that enabled Jews to escape to Japan. He did this against the explicit orders of his government. When he had to leave Kaunas, Consul Sugihara continued issuing documents from his train window until the moment the train departed. Abe Bromberg, long-time member of Beth David, had a personal mission to create a memorial to Sugihara. It began when Bromberg searched for his own name on the Internet and discovered another Abraham Bromberg who had been rescued by Sugihara. His namesake wrote, “It’s not a Jewish story or a Japanese story, it’s a story with moral implications for the whole world and the post-Holocaust world.” Our Bromberg added, “By putting up this sign, we hope we will make other people aware of this story.” Abe had been involved several years ago with Beth David’s naming another inner street after Holocaust rescuer Raoul

Wallenberg, so it seemed appropriate to memorialize Sugihara in the same way. Adam Dorsay, who grew up at Beth David, speaks Japanese and has spent time in Japan, led the dedication ceremony at Beth David. Reverend Gerald Sakamoto of San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin delivered the invocation. Japanese Consul General Yasumasa Nagamine spoke movingly about Sugihara’s significance for him. Saratoga Mayor Chuck Page delivered greetings, and Joe Yasutake, vice-president of the Japanese American Museum in San Jose spoke. Andrea Burke, whose mother and six other relatives were rescued by Sugihara, shared her thoughts. Rabbi Daniel Pressman of Beth David talked about rescuers in general and Sugihara’s moral dedication in particular, concluding, “It is important that we have dedicated Sugihara Way. It is even more important that we follow the Sugihara way of moral courage and compassion.” Jussi Rajna, Holocaust survivor who was rescued by Raoul Wallenberg’s efforts in Hungary, unveiled the sign. Following the dedication, everyone stayed to watch the movie “Sugihara: Conspiracy of Kindness.” 

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www.jvalley.org • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • December 2009

Hillel of Silicon Valley expands to West Valley College

Visit us on the internet at www.jvalley.org

For the first time in West Valley College’s history, a Jewish student group registered as an official student club at the start of this fall semester. Prior to this year, some Jewish students at West Valley were involved with Hillel of Silicon Valley activities at other campuses or with their friends from other schools. Through the receipt of a generous Opportunity Grant from the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley, Hillel was able to reach out and start a new group, “Hillel at West Valley.” The new group found immediate support from faculty, staff, and students. The first official program was at West Valley’s Club Day where several student groups including Hillel at West Valley tabled in the dining hall. Over 40 students, about a quarter identifying as Jewish, signed up for the group’s newsletter and many of the other student groups showed interest in co-sponsoring events. “Being in Hillel is really great because it's nice to hang out in a group of people who share many of the same views as me,” says Masha Lazar, a first-year student at West Valley. “It’s full of really nice people who welcomed me on my first day as if we had known each other for years.” After Club Day, the group started weekly meetings for students to meet each other and plan activities on campus. It became clear very early that timing would be difficult for a program, because many students worked in addition to going to classes. There was never a set

Masha Lazar (L, first year student at West Valley) and Sarah Katz (R, president of Hillel at West Valley).

time when everyone was free on campus. This led to the idea for an open house kickoff event: a full day of activities, games, snacks, and a rock climbing wall for the entire campus community to learn about the group and have a great time. The event was a huge success with around 100 students and staff stopping by to climb the rock wall and learn about Hillel at West Valley programs offered. “Joining Hillel has given me the opportunity for a solid, yet fun foundation in a weekly Jewish activities program,” says Sarah Katz, the first president of Hillel at West Valley. “I have really enjoyed getting to be a part of such a vibrant Jewish organization.” It seems clear that Hillel of Silicon Valley has found a new home at West Valley College and the group will surely grow with more and more students creating their own unique style of Jewish life on campus.

Over 200 attend “Jews Rock!” preview event at the JCC The “Jews Rock!” art exhibition opened to overflow crowds at the Addison-Penzak JCC on the Levy Family Campus. The JCC hosted a preview event on October 22, which was attended by over 200 people. Attendees got the chance to be the first to view the exhibition’s photos of great Jews in rock and roll, and they also enjoyed DJ music, a buffet featuring pasta, green salad and tzimmes served by Whole Foods, and wine poured by Mountain Winery. “We took our regular monthly social mixer and combined it with the Jews Rock art exhibit, and it turned out to be one of our most successful mixers ever,” said APJCC arts and culture coordinator Lisa Ceile. “People were intrigued by the subject of the exhibit. There was a lot of buzz about it.” Local start-up company Jabbertise of Los Gatos helped the JCC with publicity for the event. The “Jews Rock!” exhibition, whose appearance at the APJCC is sponsored by Ruth and Michael Fletcher, reveals some of rock and roll’s key Jewish icons through a display of the work of renowned photojournalist Janet Macoska. Macoska has been documenting rock and roll’s Jewish heritage since 1974. Her work has appeared in Rolling Stone, People, and Vogue, and at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. Musicians featured in the exhibit include Billy Joel, Bob Dylan, David Lee Roth, Bette Midler, Slash of Guns and

Virginia and Randy Hess, Rebecca Geshuri, and Ruth and Michael Fletcher at the "Jews Rock!" preview event on October 22.

The crowd at the "Jews Rock!" mixer on the Levy Family Campus

Roses, Ashley Tisdale, members of Bon Jovi and The Ramones, and more than a dozen others. Admission is free to view the exhibit at the APJCC, 14855 Oka Road, Los Gatos from through December 13.

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HAPPY HAN U KKAH

Blessing the Light, or Blessing the Darkness?

By Rabbi Yitzhak Miller— Chanukah 5770 Jewish commentators through the years (e.g. the Sfat Emet Chanukah drash 5632) have linked the lights of Chanukah in the midst of the darkest time of the year to the personal and psychological strength required to search our darkest innermost places. Many—the Sfat Emet included—have anchored the Jewish demand for this search in Proverbs 20:27: “…the light of G-d—the soul of the human: searching the deepest places of the innards…” Many commentators have noted the enhanced power of even a morsel of light in a state of darkness (a

single candle has more effect in a dark room than in a room already brightly lit). A famous poem from Rainer Maria Rilke offers a different perspective on dark moments—the perspective that darkness itself is worthy of blessing: You, darkness, of whom I am born– I love you more than the flame that limits the world to the circle it illumines and excludes all the rest. But the darkness embraces everything: shapes and shadows, creatures and me, people, nations–just as they are. It lets me imagine a great presence stirring beside me. I believe in the night. Rilke’s poem reflects the reality that it is darkness—not light—that embraces our physical universe: that it is the points of light in our universe that are held within the sachet of darkness. Is Rilke reflecting a physical reality while the Sfat Emet is guiding us spiritually? Are the concepts opposites?...two sides of the same coin? I tend to think that Rilke is also

guiding us spiritually (yes, I know— “You’re both right” is a stereotypical Rabbinic answer—that doesn’t make it less true!)...that both Rilke and the Sfat Emet are guiding us to draw strength from the realities around us. I remember as a child being fascinated with the lighting of the Chanukah candles. But I remember being even more fascinated with watching them burn to their last moment and witnessing the flame disappear into nothingness. Apparently I’m not the only one—there is a famous Jewish children’s story of the time when all eight Chanukah candles went out at precisely the same moment. We recite blessings when we kindle the Chanukah lights. This Chanukah, I offer you the possibility of also blessing the moment they go out—metaphorically blessing not only the light in your life but also blessing the darkness—knowing that both are part of our physical reality and both are gifts of the Divine. May your Chanukah, your year, and your life be blessed with miracles in all forms. 

www.jvalley.org • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • December 2009

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HAPPY HAN U KKAH “Holiday Season”—tips for Jewish mothers By Allison Gilbert, LMFT

W

hen my son was little, we attended a co-op preschool in Manhattan Beach where the sole curriculum was “conflict resolution”. As a result of this, none of their art centers contained any holiday references. The children never even came home with a Mother’s or Father’s Day card in case one of their students didn’t have both parents in their lives. We returned to Santa Cruz in time for my son to start kindergarten. I soon discovered that Santa Cruz had an entirely different policy about holidays. To my amazement, one of the kindergarten teachers had a Christmas tree in her classroom! Then during the springtime, at my daughter’s co-op preschool, I was again confronted by the different policy. One of the art centers contained stickers of bunnies and Easter eggs. When I brought this to the attention of the teacher, her response was, “Those aren’t religious symbols.” It’s interesting to note that people have differing beliefs about what may or may not be religious symbols. There won’t be a menorah in downtown Santa Cruz this year because some thought it was inappropriate to have a religious

Allison Gilbert with daughter Aimmee, husband Geoff and son Jason.

symbol by the post office. Despite this, I’m sure that there will be plenty Christmas-related symbols throughout the downtown this year. Lights, trees, bells, holly and more are displayed all over town in schools, stores, and other public places. So rather than beat them, I say let’s join them. Most often Jews are a bit shy about public displays of religiosity due to all the anti-Semitism that we’ve encountered. So here’s a way to stand up with pride, along with some strategies for Jewish families with little children. These tips help kids delight

in their Jewish identity despite being bombarded by all the fun, brightly colored, and beautiful holiday symbols that just don’t belong to them. When school starts, let the teacher know ahead of time that your child is Jewish and may be absent on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur (our holiday season). Ask for a little consideration and to please not plan any fun and exciting special projects on those days so your child won’t feel left out. Ask the school board and your principal to put the holidays in their school calendar so teachers are aware of them. Around Hanukkah, ask your child’s teacher if you can come into the classroom to make latkes. The children love them! I’ve had kids ask me year after year if I was going to make latkes, and I’ve had parents thank me for doing it. If you want, turn this into a cooking lesson. Make it easy on yourself by purchasing bags of frozen shredded potatoes and minced onion from the supermarket. Or simply make them at home and bring them in already warm. Read the Hanukkah story from a picture book while they eat. You can even light a menorah to make it truly exciting. After the children are done eating, teach them how to play dreidle. Peanuts in the

shell work really well for the kitty--if there are no peanut allergies. Have a latke party at home and invite friends and relatives. Chocolate gelt can be used to play dreidle. In our family, each person has their own menorah to light. My daughter made a gorgeous menorah one year on top of a square of granite. You’ll need lots of candles for all those menorahs, see “Holiday Season” p. 28

Nomination deadline: February 19, 2010 Nominate an outstanding teen Award - $36,000 each Nomination forms & information www.sfjcf.org/diller/teenawards 415.512.6432 • dillerteens@sfjcf.org Congratulations to our 2009 winners: Max Einhorn, La Jolla; Eric Feldman, Palos Verdes; Aaron Feuer, Los Angeles; Jackie Rotman, Santa Barbara; Erin Schrode, Ross. Watch short videos featuring the dynamic winners at www.sfjcf.org/diller/teenawards

The Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Awards are funded by the Helen

Diller Family Foundation, a supporting foundation of the Jewish

Community Endowment Fund of the Jewish Community Federation of San Francsico, The Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties.

The 2010 Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Awards recognize up to five Jewish teens — ages 13 to 19 — throughout California for exceptional community service work in helping repair the world.

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December 2009 • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • www.jvalley.org

HAPPY HAN U KKAH

December 6-20

Friday, December 11

Sunday, December 13

JSN sends rabbis to local Chanukah parties

Temple Emanu-El Rock Shabbat and Chanukah

Chanukah Palooza: Silicon Valley holiday tradition

Braydon Henry, Analise Henry and Raya Magat

Chanukah Palooza is one of Silicon Valley’s largest Chanukah events, a perennial favorite with families with preschool and school-age children. This year’s festival will also include a “Guitar Hero” competition and other entertainment for older kids. Younger ones will enjoy the crafts, bounce houses and games, and the entire family will enjoy the food, music, and holiday vendors. Chanukah Palooza will be held on Sunday, December 13, noon - 4 p.m., at the Addison-Penzak JCC, 14855 Oka Road, Los Gatos. Please call (408) 3583636 

The Jewish Study Network is launching its Second Annual Operation Maccabim from December 6-20. Eight nights of Chanukah means eight nights of fun, and every night should be a party. That's why the JSN is looking to attend your Chanukah party and share a short message on the meaning and history of the holiday with you, your family and friends. One of JSN's rabbis will come and give a five-minute Power Talk on Chanukah, infusing your guests with a deeper understanding of the Festival of Lights. Please contact the Jewish Study Network to sign up, or for more information email info@jsn.info or call (650) 493-5764. 

Sunday, December 6 Hanukkah workshop for interfaith grandparents Keeping the connection to Judaism alive is vital for children growing up in interfaith homes. Grandparents can make this happen! Hanukkah is coming and it is a key opportunity to reinforce a child's Jewish roots. In a special workshop att Shir Hadash, grandparents will be given the tools to nurture their grandchild's Jewish roots, from very young children all the way through to teenagers. Join Rabbi Melaine Aron and Jean Bronstein, an interfaith grandparent, for a Sunday afternoon workshop, December 6 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Conregation Shir Hadash, 20 Cherry Blossom Lane in Los Gatos. This workshop will be for those who are interested in the next Grandparent Circle, a three session workshop in early 2010 and those who completed the Grandparent Circle in the spring of 2009. Pre-registration is required! This is not a drop-in workshop. This is open to members and to the public. Please call or email Patti Cruz at (408) 358-1751 ext.7 or patty@shirhadash.org 

Friday, December 11 Chanukah luncheon for seniors at APJCC The APJCC will host a Chanukah Shabbat lunch program for seniors on Friday, December 11, from noon to 2:30 p.m. There will be lunch and entertainment. The cost is $5 for members and $7.50 for non-members. Please register by December 4. For more information, contact Hope Yaghutiel at (408) 357-7488 or hope@svjcc.org. 

On Friday, December 11, at 7:30 p.m., Temple Emanu-El in San Jose will Rock Shabbat and celebrate the first night of Chanukah. Member of the community are invited and encouraged to bring a menorah. The Rock Shabbat/Chanukah service combines musical excerpts of Jewish liturgy like “L’cha Dodi” by Craig Taubman, with popular songs such as “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan and “Imagine” by John Lennon. Traditional Chanukah songs will be sung as well. “You can turn any song into a rock song with electric guitars, drums, singers and bass. Even the dreidel song,” said Cantor Meeka Simerly. Rabbi Dana Magat and Cantor Meeka Simerly with Emanu-El’s Brotherhood Band, musicians and singers from the congregation, encourage singing and dancing during this lively and joyous service. Latkes and donuts, the usual Chanukah fare, will be served at the Oneg. For questions and to RSVP, please call Temple Emanu-El'S office at (408) 292-0939. 

Sunday, December 13 Chabad of S. Jose Menorah Lighting Join Chabad of S. Jose at its annual Menorah Lighting Celebration on Sunday, December 13, at 3 p.m. in downtown S. Jose at Paseo De San Antonio Two, next to 201 South Second Street. The event will feature the Menorah of Giving, a g i a n t menorah of canned food. Bring y o u r o w n c a n s o f f o o d a n d help build our menorah. The cans will be distributed to the needy. Also don't miss the community band, Hebrew school presentation, music and dancing, arts and crafts for children, and donuts and latkes. Admission is free. For more information please call (408) 358-5530 or visit our website at www.chabadsj.com. 



Friday, December 11-18

Public menorah lighting each night of Hanukkah

Don't miss the nightly public menorah lighting at Santana Row in San Jose organized by PJ Library. Beginning Friday, December 11-18 at 3:30 p.m. Saturday night candles will be lit at 6:30 p.m. and weekdays at 5:30 p.m. The last night of Hanukkah, Friday Dec. 18, candles will be lit at 3:30 p.m. Come to the performance platform at Park Valencia next to Maggiano's and Urban Outfitters, on Olin Avenue. 

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www.jvalley.org • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • December 2009

HAPPY HAN U KKAH Ask the Rabbi

Question: What is the correct time for lighting Chanukah candles?

Rabbi Simcha A. Green Ahabat Torah, San Jose Let me explain: All agree that the candles at home are to be lit at night; but when exactly at night? On one hand we always try to do the mitzvah as soon as possible when the occasion arises such as having a Bris Milah in the morning of the eighth day, if possible. However, the mitzvah can be performed any time during the daylight hours. With respect to Chanukah candles, the “best time” would be as soon as it gets dark. However, the candle lighting should be “postponed” until all family members are present as this adds to the joy of the occasion. Is also advisable to light the candles near the window when there are people, Jewish and/or non Jewish, walking in the streets. This is to “publicize the miracle” ((pirsumei d'nissa)—so it might depend upon the time for foot traffic in one's particular neighborhood. In all cases the candles should burn for at least one-half hour after dark.

May the flames from your menorah light your home with happiness and peace!

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But on Friday afternoon, the candles should be lit before the beginning of Shabbat. In our area that might mean that the candles are to be lit before everyone "is home." In that case, the one doing the lighting should not delay and should be careful to complete the lighting before Shabbat begins. In addition, longer candles should be used in order that they burn at least one-half hour after dark. It is permissible to have only one such longer candle even if the total number of candles that evening is more. While that might sound confusing, it's based on the fact that the original mitzvah was to light only one candle each of the eight nights of Chanukah and later in our history did the method we presently follow (adding one each night) develop. It is a custom (but not the law) to light Chanukah candles in the synagogue at night during the evening services and in some synagogues candles are also lit during the morning services. But not on Shabbat. Please note that both Ashkenaz and Sephardic customs are the same when it comes to Chanukah candles and everywhere in the world, including Israel, Chanukah is eight days long. May your holiday shine as brightly as the candles! 

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December 2009 • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • www.jvalley.org

Volunteer opportunities this Hanukkah season Embrace-A-Family Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley knows that the Festival of Lights is not a bright holiday for everybody in the community. In some struggling households, meeting every day expenses–let alone buying presents for Hanukkah–is a huge financial burden. The Embrace-A-Family program is designed to make this time a lot brighter for many adults and children. Here’s how it works: pull a dreidel tag, purchase the specially selected item on the tag, return the gift and tag to the JFS SV offices, and put a large smile on someone’s face. Embrace-A-Family Gift Boards are located at three locations: at the Levy Family Campus in the JFS SV office on the second floor and the Yavneh Day School/ JCC Preschool lobby and at Congregation Sinai. More Ways to Help In addition to specific gifts, we are also asking for gift cards to Target, Kohl’s, Trader Joe’s, Safeway, and gas stations to be given to our clients with additional needs. Help brighten the holiday for a grateful child through our community toy drive. Toy drive barrels are located in the Levy Family Campus main lobby and Congregation Beth David lobby. We thank the Silicon Valley Young Adults Division and Jews Next Dor for holding these drives to benefit JFS SV clients, as well as other children in the community.

Leslie Banks and her sons Nathan and Noah Miller bring a gift for boy for Embrace-A-Family.

All donated toys must be new and unwrapped. JFS SV is also accepting dreidels, Hanukkah candles and bags of gelt to be given to homebound seniors, Holocaust survivors, and families. Drop off locations are the JFS SV office and the Yavneh Day School/JCC Preschool lobby. All of these Hanukkah programs, which are part of JFS SV’s Project N.O.A.H. ( o One Abandoned (N A Here), will continue until the end of December. At press time, these are the locations for donation drop offs, but more may be added. For more information, including a current list of locations, please contact Michele Myron at (408) 357-7453 or michelem@jfssv.org. Thank you for caring! 

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www.jvalley.org • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • December 2009

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December 2009 • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • www.jvalley.org

Women's Philanthropy update By Arielle Hendel Women’s Philanthropy of the Jewish Federation is busy! We’ve held an open house at the home of President Susie Brenner for Sukkot. Outreach Co-Chairs Claudia Muller and Joelle Pluemer coordinated the event with help from Cyd Braker and Rozita Tabibian. Everyone enjoyed the company and crafts, including a paper chain of wishes for the community and our families. We’ve also planned the November 17 Hanukkah Boutique where over 20 vendors sold their wares to benefit the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley and its beneficiary agencies. The committee included Denise Bendori, Amy Goldstein, Julie Lin-Friss, Dianne Portnoy, Wendy Shapiro, Susie Brenner with help from Cathy Raice and others for the day of the event. On December 6 you will hear the clicking of Mah Jongg tiles during our two-tiered tournament chaired by Karen Guggenheim and Doris Katz. There is still time to register for this fabulous event including cash prizes and lunch. Register today at www.jvalley.org.

Left to right: Hila Propp, Susie Brenner (WP President), Claudia Maller, (Outreach VP) and Marcia Klein (Connections Co-Chair).

Plans are underway under the guidance of Chair Marcia Klein for Connections 2010. Mark your calendars today for Thursday, March 4 at the Levy Family Campus to hear from Rhymes with Orange cartoonist Hilary Price at the annual Connections event. Our Chair Elise Wolff is welcoming new babies with Shalom Baby basket deliveries. If you would like to join the excitement, contact Arielle Hendel at (408) 357-7501 or Arielle@jvalley.org. 

Happy Hanukkah Rosa Bencuya 408.499.2077 • 408.913.7784

rbencuya@apr.com

www.homebyrosa.com

SARATOGA OFFICE 408.741.1111

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www.jvalley.org • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • December 2009

Filling the Gap Twenty- and thirty-somethings find friends and social life through Jewish young adult groups By Cecily Ruttenberg

T

wenty-nine-year-old Phillip Chatoff remembers the first couple of years after graduating from U.C. Santa Cruz as a somewhat lonely time. He was living in the South Bay working in the financial services industry and had lost touch with his circle of Hillel friends from Santa Cruz. “It wasn't a very social time for me,� said Chatoff. “The majority of the time I was hanging out with people at work.� This was a big change for Chatoff who had been super involved with Hillel during college and had a big social circle. Chatoff says it was a “good couple of years� before he ran into some friends that invited him to an event put on by Congregation Beth David's young adult group, Jews Next D'or. “I started getting more connected again, and actually ended up organizing a bowling event and at that met the person that I'm with [dating] right now,� said Chatoff. “I've gotten more and more involved and that's nice because most of my friends are in the group.� Chatoff's story is not unique. Young adults who establish strong Jewish social connections throughout their elementary, high school and college years often find themselves in a no-man's land after graduation. No longer surrounded by a built-in network of peers, not to mention

Phillip Chatoff met his girlfriend Margarita Kudlov at a Jews Next Dor young adult event.

Jewish peers, twenty-somethings have to look harder for friends. While some find peers at their work, others do not. These important transitional years are also when many young people meet their future partners. Jewish young adult groups like Beth David's Jews Next Dor and the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley's Young Adult's Division (SVYAD) have been expanding to fill the gap between Hillel

programs for college students and synagogue programs aimed at young families. Until recently, these in-between years have been relatively sparce, with a few notable exceptions such as the Taglit Birthright trip to Israel. Studies show the young adult years as critical in determining the trajectory of a person's Jewish life. Aleeza Abramovitz, who runs Jews Next Dor, took over control of the group

in 2005, shortly after graduating from U.C. Santa Cruz. The original incarnation had turned into a young families group as the original members had one-by-one married and had kids. When she took over, the group had an email list of some 60 names. Since then 545 people have attended events, with almost 400 attending at least one event in the last year. Abramovitz is well suited to run Jews Next Dor as she personally has felt its need. In college at U.C. Santa Cruz, she had lots of social and Jewish options— Hillel, the Chabad Student Center, a Jewish environmentalist group and a Jewish sorority and fraternity. “There was definitely a gap when I graduated,� she said. “A lot of [my old high school friends] had moved away or were still in school. The ones that I had recently been hanging out with had either moved back to where they came from or were still in Santa Cruz. The synagogue young adult group was more in their 30s so I didn't really relate, even if they were single and didn't have kids.� Abramovitz's job wasn't much help either. Employed at a small firm doing web design for real estate and title companies, most of Abramovitz's coworkers were See “Filling the Gap� p. 28

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Confirmation classes of TEMPLE EMANU-EL of San Jose, CA Years 1962, 63, 64 give or take a few For 1962 Contact Janice Perwin.....(408) 281-2451 For 1963 contact Carol Cutler........(408) 266-9224 For 1964 contact Stan Cotton........(408) 265-1948 We are planning a reunion Spring 2010. We need people to contact us and we need committee members. If you have contact information on classmates, please contact us too.

December at Temple Emanu-El Come Join Us! $ Friday, December 4 7:15 PM Family Shabbat Service

$ Friday, December 11 7:30 PM Special Chanukah Rock Shabbat With lighting of chanukiot during the Oneg

$ Sunday, December 13 11:30 AM Chanukah for Adults: The Real Story

$ Friday, December 18 6 PM Tot Shabbat and Potluck 7:30 PM Erev Shabbat Service

$ Friday, December 25 and January 1 6:30 PM Kabbalat Shabbat Service

$ Friday, January 8, 2010 7:15 PM Family Shabbat Service

$ Shabbat Morning Minyan at 9 AM Saturdays November 28 December 5,12,19 & 26 January 2,9,16,23, & 30

$ Save the Date: Sunday, January 31: Blood Drive Tuesday, February 2: Preschool Open House

Temple Emanu-El 1010 University Avenue, San Jose CA 95126 Administrative ofďŹ ce: (408) 292-0939 Religious School ofďŹ ce: (408) 292-3223 Preschool ofďŹ ce: (408) 293-8660 www.templesanjose.org

23

South Bay Jews travel to Washington D.C. Seven members of the South Bay Jewish community traveled to Washington D.C. in early November for the 2009 General Assemby of the Jewish Federations of North America. The conference was attended by over 3000 Jewish leaders. Speakers included Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Kadima leader Tzipi Livni, Israeli ambassador to the U.S. Michael Oren, former Israeli politician Natan Sharansky and President Obama's Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel.

Representing the Silicon Valley Jewish community were Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley President Steve Green and his wife Helaine, Susie Brenner, Ginny Baird and Federation CEO Jyl Jurman. Al Guggenheim, who serves as an executive member of the Jewish Federations of North America, also attended with his wife Karen. During the trip Guggenheim, in his capacity as an executive member, was invited to the White House and briefly met President Obama. ď ™

24

www.jvalley.org • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • December 2009

Simchas of Silicon Valley BY ANDREA COHEN GREYBER BIRTHS Congregation Beth David members Bill & Betty Menkin of San Jose were delighted with the arrival of their new grandson Samuel David Lauris. His parents are Nora Menkin & Nick Lauris and he was born in Seattle, Samuel David Lauris WA on September 22; he weighed in at seven pounds, six ounces and was 20.5 inches long. Josephine Menkin and Aileen Menkin of San Jose are excited new aunts! Jan & Janyce Lipson of Congregation Beth David are proud to announce the birth of their grandson David Isaac Lipson on October 18. His parents are Samuel & Katie Lipson and his big sister is Ellie, David and Ellie Lipson 2½. David weighed 8 pounds, 13 ounces. The Lipsons live in

Austin, TX. David's other grandparents are Dr. Lee & Eric Kindberg of Charlotte, NC. His uncle Albert Lipson is a thirdyear graduate student in material science at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL and his uncle Joey, a third-year graduate student in biochemistry at the University of California at San Diego, & aunt Wei-Chen Lipson live in San Diego. Aunt and uncle Kim & Tom Kindberg live in Charlotte, NC. The brit was held in Austin, TX on October 26 and was officiated by Dr. Max Mintz and Rabbi Alan Freedman. CALLED TO THE TORAH Shaina Rachel Baum, daughter of Claire Levin of Los Gatos and Peter Baum of Cupertino and stepdaughter of Lane Gore and stepsister of Joni Gore, was called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on October 24 at Congregation Sinai. Shaina is a seventh grade student at Yavneh Jewish Day School. She likes the arts, movies, Shaina Baum has a great love of animals and is committed to vegetarianism. Shaina’s grandfather, Marvin Levin of Concord was pleased to attend her Bat Mitzvah as was her aunt Donna Levin of San Francisco, her uncles Allen Baum of Palo Alto and Michael Baum of Pinole. Her aunt Joni Levin of Israel was unable to attend. Family members on this special occasion remembered the late Helen Stern Levin of Piedmont, her grandmother, and the late Charlotte & Elmer Baum her grandparents of Cupertino. Jessica Stein, daughter of Edye & Larry Stein of Cupertino, was called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on October 31 at Congregation Sinai. She is a student a t G i d e o n Hausner Middle School. Jessica’s Jessica Stein older sisters, Allison, 16, and Samantha, 14, attend Kehillah High School in Palo Alto. Jessica enjoys science, singing and dancing and all things creative. She has participated in open mike nights around the area in an effort to raise money for Ethiopian orphans. At her Bat Mitzvah party guests enjoyed a song that

she had composed. Her grandparents were pleased to attend this special occasion. Sandy & Shel Spungen live in Cupertino and her grandmother Barbara Stein came in from Milwaukee, WI. Other aunts and uncles came from AZ, IN, WI and OR. Jessica spoke lovingly of her grandfather Marty Stein who helped his whole family go to Israel before his untimely passing. Jessica’s mitzvah project will involve fundraising for veteran’s affairs. Eden Rousso Jackel, daughter of Nora Rousso & Jonathan Jackel (who celebrated their 23rdd wedding anniversary this month), was called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on November 7 at Temple Emanu-El. Eden is in the eighth grade at Yavneh Jewish Day Eden Jackel School. The family lives in Los Gatos with two dogs and two cats. Eden is a performer who loves to sing, dance and act. She has appeared in ten local theater productions, including three with professional companies. She also has a “passion for fashion” and thus the theme of her Bat Mitzvah party is “Live from the Red Carpet”. Attending the Bat Mitzvah were Eden’s grandmother Carmen Rousso of Pebble Beach and her grandfather, Leonard Jackel of Soquel along with family and friends from near and far. Eden is visiting the residents of Chai House weekly for her mitzvah project and is also planning a talent show to be performed there in December. She and some of her friends will sing; one of her friends will do a dramatic reading and Eden and members of the Yavneh Blaze Dance Team will dance. Ben Huchley, son of Jill Huchital & Mike Kelley was called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on November 14 at Temple Emanu-El. Ben is in the eighth grade at Harker Middle School and is the older brother of Emmy who attends Ben Huchley

third grade at Harker. His grandparents Carol & Bud Loewith of Surprise, AZ and Audrey & David Huchital of Los Altos and aunt and uncle Alana & Grant Goodman and cousin Eli of Cupertino joined in the festivities. Ben enjoys computer programming, video games and Harry Potter. He is a member of the robotics club at school. For his mitzvah project he learned that “chocolate sells well” in organizing bake sales to raise money for “Nothing But Nets” which seeks to distribute anti-malarial nets in Africa. Emma Vainish, daughter of Cara & Ronen Vainish of Sunnyvale, is a seventh grade student at Cupertino Middle School. She was called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on November 21. Her older brother, Daniel, is a ninth grade student at Homestead Emma Vainish High School and her younger sister Molly, 8, is at West Valley Elementary School. Her grandparents Paula & Bernard Klein live in Cupertino, and her other grandparents Ditza & Berti Vainish live in Israel. For her mitzvah project she will be donating money to the Make a Wish Foundation. Joseph Harold Cahn, son of Susana & David Cahn of San Jose, was called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on November 21 at Temple Emanu-El. Joey is a seventh grade honor student at Ida Price Middle School. He enjoys math, science and writing. Additionally, Joey has passionately dedicated himself to baseball, martial arts, electric and Joseph Cahn rock guitar. His parents and sister Naomi, a sophomore at Kehillah High School, and grandparents Ed & Margie Cahn and aunt Sue Cahn are excited that he has embraced his Hebrew studies. He has committed himself to his Bar Mitzvah project of raising awareness

25

December 2009 • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • www.jvalley.org

Simchas of Silicon Valley of the severe water shortage in Israel and is hoping to have an impact on this situation through donations to the Jewish National Fund. His Bar Mitzvah ceremony was part of the continuing evolution of Joey’s commitment to Judaism. His relatives from “down south�, grandparents Art & Elpie Collado, aunt and uncle Femy & Lito and cousins Chris, Jessa and Raphael Bolompo were excited to be a part of this milestone. Weddings Smadar Cohen, daughter of Michael Cohen & Deborah Guth of Herzyliah, Israel was married to Avi Chen, son of Motti & Ariella Chen who grew up on Kibbutz Givat Yo’av in the Golan Heights Avi Chen & Smadar Cohen w e r e married on October 1 in Zikron Yaakov. Rabbi Daniel Greyber of Camp Ramah, the bride’s first cousin, performed the ceremony. Her aunt Helen Guth now lives in Israel and was delighted to be on hand for the wedding of her only niece. Smadar

holds a BA in government and diplomacy from the Inter-Disciplinary Center (IDC) in Herzyliah. She is now pursuing a Masters degree from the IDC. Her husband spent a year in national service on the kibbutz where he grew up and then three years in a combat unit as a medic. He and his bride met in the army. He is a graduate of the BPI Music School in Tel Aviv. Avi’s brothers are Uri and Achiyah and his sister is Na’ama. They were pleased to be a part of the wedding. Smadar’s relatives from the Bay Area included her aunt and uncle Andrea & Howard Greyber, cousins Elizabeth, Joe, Ari, Samuel and d Carl Lichy all of Congregation Sinai in San Jose. Cousin Alon Greyber traveled to the wedding from Los Angeles and cousins Rob & Natasha Greyber came from Seattle, WA.

and Israel experiences. As a result of her experiences as a young person, she dedicated her professional life to Jewish education. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Near Eastern Judaic Studies from Brandeis University. She met her husband Joel Fleekop there. He Andrea Fleekop is now the Associate Rabbi at Congregation Shir Hadash in Los Gatos. She earned two Master of Arts

Special Achievements Andrea Fleekop, director of Education at Fremont’s Beth Torah, was recently given the designation: Reform Jewish Educator. She has worked at Beth Torah since July 2005. Andrea has had a passion for Jewish education. She grew up in New Jersey, attended Jewish day school through high school and participated in Jewish youth groups, summer camp

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degrees in 2003, one in Jewish Education and an additional one in Jewish Communal Services from Hebrew Union College, the Reform Jewish seminary in Los Angeles. Please send announcements and photos to Andrea Greyber, agreyber@yahoo.com or call her at (408) 377-6224.

To advertise in the JCN call Lori Cinnamon at (408) 406-0059 or locinnamon@aol.com

26

www.jvalley.org • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • December 2009

Datebook THURSDAYS Silicon Valley Beit Midrash 9 AM-Noon, Mirkin Chapel at Sinai Join Rabbi Joshua Berkenwald of Sinai and Rabbi Simcha Green of Ahabat Torah for indepth study of Jewish thought, belief, and practice. No fee; drop-ins are welcome; no experience necessary. 9-10:15 a.m.: Pirkei Avot; 10:30 a.m.-Noon: Mishnah Study. (408) 264-8542 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19 Kehillah Jewish High School Open House 7:30-9:30 PM, 3900 Fabian Way, Palo Alto Come learn about Kehillah from its students, faculty and parents. Tour the campus, get your questions answered and discover the “Kehillah difference.� All middle-school families are welcome. Free. RSVP by November 19: www.kehillah.org or Marily Lerner, (650) 2139600, ext. 154 or mlerner@kehillah.org One Community, One Book Event 7:30 PM, APJCC Auditorium “The Life You Can Save� by Peter Singer is this year’s book. Matthew Flannery will be speaking on “Helping Through Empowering, The Creation of Kiva Micro-loans.� Center for Jewish Life and Learning, CJLL@svjcc.org or (408) 357-7413 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21 Torah for Tots 11 AM-Noon, Sinai Social Hall For kids ages 0-5. Join families for fun, interactive, educational, parent-led services for kids. Shabbat songs, stories, dancing, games and snacks. Sinai membership is not required. torahfortots@sinai-sj.org or (408) 264-8542 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22 Open House for Prospective Parents 3-5 PM, Yavneh Day School, Levy Family Campus Learn how a Yavneh education can benefit your JK-8 child. RSVP: Dana Lowy, (408) 9846700 or admissions@yavnehdayschool.org

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Silicon Valley Jewish Film Festival Presents “Adam Resurrected� 3 PM, Camera 12, 201 S. Second St., San Jose This film is based on a novel by renowned Israeli author Yoram Kaniuk. It is the early 1960s in an Israeli mental hospital where all the patients are emotionally scarred Holocaust survivors. Jeff Goldblum, in a tour de force, plays a brilliant but deeply tormented camp survivor, once a famous German nightclub performer, whose soul died as a result of the degradation that he experienced during the war. Searing and dark, always powerful, and at times both inspiring and uplifting. Derek Jacobi and Willem Dafoe shine as supporting players. (NB: This is a strong film with scenes that maybe difficult for some.) $11/adult in advance; $13/adult at the door; $9/senior or student in advance; $10/senior or student at the door. RSVP: Brown Paper Tickets, (800) 838-3006. Margalit Raviv, (408) 899-6013 or margalit@svjff.org Silicon Valley Jewish Film Festival Presents “Circumsize Me� followed by a stand-up comedy show 5:30 PM, Camera 12, 201 S. Second St., San Jose It’s non-stop laughter when stand-up comedian Yisrael Campbell—born Chris Campbell—tells of his conversion to Judaism from Catholicism. You can’t help but laugh as he relates how he had three circumcisions (it’s true!) Following the film: Jeff Applebaum, a well-known South Bay comedian will keep the laughs flowing. $18/adult in advance; $20/adult at the door; $16/senior or student in advance; $18/ senior or student at the door. Pre-Registration Requested: Brown Paper Tickets, (800) 8383006. Margalit Raviv, (408) 899-6013 or margalit@svjff.org Silicon Valley Jewish Film Festival Presents “Lost Islands� 7:30 PM, Camera 12, 201 S. Second St., San Jose This is a film about growing up, relationships, and the special difficulties of Israeli life, circa 1980. In the Levy family, there are twin brothers, the outgoing one, who is favored by his mother, and the shyer one, who is largely ignored by her. As time passes, the brothers fall for the same girl, and their destinies are transformed forever when one brother is forced to stay at home to care for his father

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while the other is called to war. It’s a unique portrait of Israeli life with all the laughs and tears of an engaging family drama. Hebrew with English subtitles.) $11/adult in advance; $13/adult at the door; $9/senior or student in advance; $10/senior or student at the door. RSVP: Brown Paper Tickets, (800) 838-3006. Margalit Raviv, (408) 899-6013 or margalit@ svjff.org TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1 “Walking with G-d� Class 7:30-9:30 PM, Sinai Monthly series on first Monday with Rabbi Berkenwald. Free. (408) 264-8542 Young Adult Gift-Wrapping Party 7 PM, Levy Family Campus Join SVYAD, Jew's Next Dor and Jewish Family Services for our annual gift-wrapping party! Snacks and fun provided. Admission: one roll of non-holiday wrapping paper. Starting October 6, new toys for ages 0-17 in their original packaging, are being collected in the lobby of the Levy Family Campus (14855 Oka Road, Los Gatos) and Congregation Beth David (19700 Prospect Road, Saratoga). Toys will be distributed by Jewish Family Services. Free. Amanda Orrin, (408) 357-7503 or www.SVYAD.org THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3 One Community, One Book Event 7:30 PM, APJCC Auditorium “The Life You Can Save� by Peter Singer is this year’s book. Dr Aryeh Cohen will be speaking on “What’s So Jewish About Peace, Love, and Understanding?� Center for Jewish Life and Learning, CJLL@svjcc.org or (408) 357-7413 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 Torah for Tots 11 AM-Noon, Sinai Social Hall For kids ages 0-5. Join families for fun, interactive, educational, parent-led services for kids. Shabbat songs, stories, dancing, games and snacks. Sinai membership is not required. torahfortots@sinai-sj.org or (408) 264-8542 Bunko Game Night 7 PM, Beth David Come learn how to play this fun dice game. No previous experience necessary. $5/person. RSVP by November 30: RSVP@beth-david.org. (408) 257-3333

Music, Magic and Mirth 7:30 PM, Sinai Event is a festive evening of fabulous food, amazing auction items, and exceptional entertainment featuring comedian Jeff Applebaum and ten renowned magicians and jazz ensemble. #36/person in advance; $45/person at the door. RSVP required (408) 264-8542 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 through SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20 Operation Maccabim 6 PM, at YOUR Chanukah Party! A Jewish Study Network Rabbi and eight nights of Chanukah mean eight nights of fun—and each night should be a party! That's our philosophy at the JSN. That's why the JSN is looking to attend YOUR Chanukah party and share a short message on the meaning and history of the holiday, with you, family, and friends. One of our rabbis will come on over, give a short 5-minute inspirational Chanukah message, infusing your guests with a deeper understanding and appreciation of our Festival of Lights. Free. RSVP by Dec. 8: Rabbi Avromi Apt, (650) 493-5764 or avromi@jsn.info [see p. 17] SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 December Dilemma Talk 11:30 AM, Emanu-El Rabbi Magat will speak. (408) 292-0939 [see p. 6] Mah Jongg Tournament 9:30 AM, Levy Family Campus Women’s Philanthropy event that includes a two-tiered tournament, cash prizes and lunch. $54 entry fee Register: www.jvalley.org [see p. 21] Grandparents' Circle Hanukkah Workshop 3-5 PM, Shir Hadash Are your grandchildren being raised in an interfaith household? The Grandparents’ Circle offers grandparents skills and techniques to nurture and, in some cases, help establish their interfaith grandchildren’s Jewish identities. Free and open to all members of the community. (408) 358-1751 [see p.17] WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9 SVYAD Young Couples Chavurah 7:30 PM, Location available with RSVP Join other young (21-45) couples for a once-amonth evening of food and open conversation. Upcoming topics and details: www.SVYAD.org or Amanda Orrin, (408) 357-7503 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11 through PJ Library Chanukah Events Santana Row (408) 358-3033 [see p. 5] FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11 Chanukah Luncheon for Seniors Noon-2:30 PM, Levy Family Campus Lunch and entertainment hosted by the APJCC. $5/member; $7.50/non-member. RSVP by Dec. 4: Hope Yaghutiel at (408) 357-7488 or hope@svjcc.org [see p. 17] Rock Shabbat/Hanukkah Service 7:30 PM, Emanu-El (408) 292-0939 [ see p. 17] SVYAD Shabbat Across the Bay 7:30 PM, Private home Meet, mix, and mingle with Jewish young adults (ages 21-45) from all over the Bay Area. $15/person includes 3-course meal and wine. Amanda Orrin, (408) 357-7503 or www. SVYAD.org

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December 2009 • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • www.jvalley.org

Datebook SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12 Torah N’Tefilah 10:30 AM-Noon, Sinai A monthly (second Shabbat of the month) explosive new Shabbat service for 3rd-7th graders. (408) 264-8542 Book Discussion Group 12:30 PM, Beth David All are welcome to this monthly group discussion. This month’s book is “Towers of Gold: How One Jewish Immigrant Named Isaias Hellman Created California” by Frances Dinkelspiel. Discussion led by Harry Cornbleet. Miriam Marr, (650) 968-7138 Latke and Lights Chanukah Party 4:30-6:30 PM, Sinai Seudah Shlishit followed by Havdalah, candlelighting and sing-a-long. Free. (408) 245-8542 SVYAD Light It Up Chanukah Party 9 PM, OFJCC, 3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto Are you 21+? Enjoy a night out with Jewish young adults from around the Bay for the annual community Hanukkah bash! Light the Menorah and spin a dreidel while you drink, eat and dance the night away with friends. Get a discount by bringing two non-perishable food items for Second Harvest Food Bank! Brought to you by: Hillel of Silicon Valley, Hillel of Stanford, Jews’ Next Dor, Oshman Family JCC, Roots Collective, SVYAD, & T’Keya. $10/person in advance at http:// www.paloaltojcc.com/light/; $15/person at the door. Amanda Orrin, (408) 357-7503 or www.SVYAD.org SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 Rappin’ with the Rabbi 10 AM, Sinai Join Rabbi Berkenwald for coffee and casual discussions on relevant Jewish topics. Also on January 24 and February 21. (408) 264-8542 Chanukah-Palooza and Battle of the Bands Noon-4 PM, APJCC Event is the APJCC’s annual Chanukah festival, open to the public. The festival will be followed by the Battle of the Bands. Jason Goldstein, (408) 357-7497 [see p. 17] Menorah Lighting Celebration 3 PM, Paseo De San Antonio Two, next to 201 S. Second Street, San Jose Chabad of S. Jose will build a Menorah of Giving with donated cans of food to be donated to the needy. Free. (408) 358-5530 or www.chabadsj.com [see p.17]

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16 Silicon Valley Connect 6:30-8:30 PM, The Tied House, 954 Villa Street, Mountain View Meet, mix, and mingle with Jewish young adults (ages 21-45) from all over the Bay Area, at one of Silicon Valley’s coolest venues. $15/person (or $10/person with a donated can of food) includes vegetarian appetizers. $15/person. Amanda Orrin, (408) 357-7503 or www.SVYAD.org Holocaust Survivor Speaker 7:30 PM, Emeth Magda Brown of the Skokie, Illinois Holocaust Museum will speak. (408) 778-8200 [see p. 7] THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17 SVYAD Poker Tournament 6:30 PM, Levy Family Campus Hit the cards and enjoy a night of fun with other Jewish young adults as we play the night away. Buy-in, prizes and registration details at www.svyad.org or Amanda Orrin, (408) 357-7503 FRIDAY-SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18-19 JSN Young Adults Shabbaton RSVP required: info@jsn.info or (650) 493-5764 [see p. 7] FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18 Shabbat and Chanukah Dinner 6-9 PM, Sinai $20/adult; $5/child; free/child under 5. $54 maximum for a family. RSVP required by Dec. 11, (408) 264-8542 Torah for Tots 11 AM-Noon, Sinai Social Hall See December 5 or torahfortots@sinai-sj.org [see p. 7] “Simcha”—A Chanukah Celebration & Bazaar! 4-6 PM, Heritage Theatre, 1 West Campbell Avenue, Campbell A one-night-only encore performance of a magnificent dance show, a unique and joyful event for the whole family, just in time for Chanukah! “Simcha,” the story of a Jewish family's journey that spans continents and generations, from a small Jewish village ( shtetl) in Europe, to the bustling streets of New York. Inspired by the stories of Sholom Aleichem, this humorous and touching tale is a rich tapestry of Jewish tradition, woven with music and dance. Be prepared to rejoice and remember. It is a celebration of all that is best in life: family, tradition, warmth, and

love. Arrive early! Before the show begins, you will find yourself immersed in a small and charming shtetl from years long gone by. In this shtetl, you'll stumble upon the local market, bustling with Chanukah cheer, beautiful crafts, delectable treats, and wonderful wares. Don't miss this holiday celebration! Chanukah bazaar at 4, “Simcha” show at 5. Event is sponsored by the Bureau of Jewish Education San Francisco, The Peninsula, Marin, Sonoma. $15-25/person. Alina Moretti, (408) 621-0741, marketing@ simchashow.com, or http://www.bjesf.org/ index.htm THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24 SVYAD Latke Ball Bus & Party Details at www.SVYAD.org Jump on our party bus and ride in style to the hottest party in Northern CA! Over 1,000 young adults at Ruby Skye and 50+ on our bus. Amanda Orrin, (408) 357-7503 or www. SVYAD.org TUESDAY, JANUARY 5 “Walking with G-d” Class 7:30-9:30 PM, Sinai Monthly series on first Monday with Rabbi Berkenwald. Free. (408) 264-8542 THURSDAYS Silicon Valley Beit Midrash 9 AM-Noon, Mirkin Chapel at Sinai Join Rabbi Joshua Berkenwald of Sinai and Rabbi Simcha Green of Ahabat Torah for indepth study of Jewish thought, belief, and practice. No fee; drop-ins are welcome; no experience necessary. 9-10:15 a.m.: Pirkei Avot; 10:30 a.m.-Noon: Mishnah Study. (408) 264-8542 THURSDAY, JANUARY 7 One Community, One Book Event 7:30 PM, APJCC Auditorium “The Life You Can Save” by Peter Singer is this year’s book. Nigel Savage will be speaking on “Keeping Kosher in the 20th Century, The New Jewish Food Movement.” Center for Jewish Life and Learning, CJLL@svjcc.org or (408) 357-7413 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13 “Conservation in the 21st Century” 8 PM, Shir Hadash Talk by Professor Gretchen Daily professor of biological sciences at Stanford. (408) 358-1751 [see p. 11] THURSDAY, JANUARY 14 Am Echad’s Founders’ Dinner TBD, Santa Clara Convention Center Event honors Jim and Jimmi Roberts. Rabbi Paysach Krohn will be the guest speaker. (408) 267-2591 or info@amechad.org [see p. 7] SATURDAY, JANUARY 16 “Night of Illusions” 7-9:30 PM, Beth David Majinga the Magician will perform some special Hebrew magic and comedy in addition to his popular show. $15/adult; $10/child under 12; $45/family 4-pack. RSVP: RSVP@bethdavid.org or (408) 257-3333 [see p. 9] SUNDAYS, JANUARY 17 and 24 Exploring Buddhism Class 10:45 AM-Noon, Shir Hadash Rabbi Joel Fleekop will teach. Continued on January 24. RSVP: Patty Cruz, (408) 358-1751, ext. 7 [see p. 7]

TUESDAY, JANUARY 19 Conversations in Jewish Learning 7:30 PM, Beth David Author Maggie Anton will discuss her latest book Three Women and a Talmud: The Story of Rashi's Daughters: Book Three-Rachel. She will speak about the research behind her best-selling trilogy, set in the household of the great medieval Talmud scholar who had no sons, only daughters. Among the topics she'll discuss: What was life like for Jewish women in 11th century France? Were Rashi's daughters really learned? Did they actually wear tefillin? Why should a 21st-century Jew care about Rashi, his daughters, and how French Jews lived in the 11th century anyway? The answers to these questions will surprise and fascinate you. Book sales and book signing will follow the lecture. Schmooze after the lecture with desserts and drinks. Requested donation: $3/Beth David member; $5/nonmember. (408) 257-3333 or cabral@beth-david.org THURSDAY, JANUARY 21 Jewish Recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor 7:30 PM, Emanu-El Herb Kwart will speak to Sisterhood. RSVP: (408) 292-0939 or admin@templesanjose.org [see p. 5] SATURDAY, JANUARY 23 International Dinner 6:30 PM, Various homes Several homes will offer a delectable dinner based on an international theme. Conversation, dessert and a discussion about Hadassah will follow at a second home. Event is sponsored by Sharone Hadassah. RSVP required by January 16: Jane Jacobson, (408) 872-1845 or Jane_Jacobson@usa.net SUNDAY, JANUARY 24 Interfaith Women’s Gathering 2:45 PM, Shir Hadash Jewbilee: A Day of Learning in the South Bay 1-8 PM, Levy Family Campus Come one, come all to the first-ever South Bay “Jewbilee,” a celebration of Jewish life and learning. Through classes, performances, workshops, speakers, panels, guided discussions, and good food, we will come together as a community and celebrate the many different ways in which we express our Judaism. We’ll have offerings for adults, offerings for children, and free childcare for the youngest. Jewbilee is made possible by a generous grant from the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley. APJCC Center for Jewish Life and Learning, CJLL@svjcc.org or www.svjcc.org [see p. 13] THURSDAY, MARCH 4 Women's Philanthropy's Connections TBD Levy Family Campus Arielle Hendel (408) 357-7501 or Arielle@jvalley.org How to Get Your Organization’s Events Listed in the JCN: N Email cecily@jvalley.org by December 1 Include name of the event; date and time; place, address and street, city; sponsoring organization and one-sentence description; cost, if any; contact name, phone number and/or e-mail address, and the last day your organization will accept reservations or RSVPs. Photos related to the event are encouraged.

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www.jvalley.org • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • December 2009

drom “Filling the Gap” p. 22 older with kids and the few younger people were nice, but they didn't have much in common outside of work. When Abramovitz began organizing Jews Next Dor, with monthly events from bowling to dinner or community service, her social circle began to rapidly expand and she met her current boyfriend. Evan Kaplan, 31, moved to Sunnyvale to accept a job working at Facebook. Unlike small, companies with older employees, Facebook offered a large population of potential peers. But for Kaplan, even this young working environment didn't help him find friends. “A lot of people at Facebook are right out of college. I feel, at Facebook at least, kind of old. A lot of them are drinkers and those that aren't have already settled down and had families. So I’m stuck inbetween,” said Kaplan. Fortunately, Kaplan had already sought out young adult groups in the area and began attending SYVAD and Jews Next Dor events right away. In fact, he attended an SVYAD Connect (networking evening) while he was in the area interviewing for his job at Facebook. “I'm still friends with several people I met that first night that I came here,” said Kaplan. He adds, “I've moved three times now, and I've had to make new friends every time I moved. I realized I could always turn to some

group in the area. I right away seek out whatever groups are wherever I'm moving.” During his many moves, Kaplan also sought out groups related to his special interest in Pug dogs (yes, he has one!) and salsa dancing. While he enjoyed the activity meet ups, people ranged in age dramatically from teens to seniors and often the only commonality people shared were the special interest. Katya Avagian, 22, moved from Israel to the United States at age 16. When she went to college in Denver, Colorado she became heavily involved at the Hillel and local Chabad. But when she moved to the South Peninsula after college, her social options diminished “I worked for a very small start-up in online marketing and advertising. There were very few Jewish people there. I was working extremely long hours. Most of these people were in their early thirties and were mostly married and already had kids and I was definitely the youngest,” Avagian remembers. “When I changed my job, I met someone who knew Aleeza and he suggested I go to the Latke Ball. He introduced me to a bunch of his friends.” Avagian now feels well connected to a group of Jewish peers in her age group thanks to her involvement with young adult groups. But it took time to get there. “It was kind of a disconnect,” she

says. “I had a very large group of friends in Denver. When I came back it was a little bit lonely.” Sari Wisch, 33, has used Jewish young adult groups to find her social footing more than once. After graduating from the University of Oregon, where she was very active in Hillel and the Jewish Student Union, she moved to Washington, D.C. and immediately sought out Jewish social life. “I moved there only knowing one person, and I was like well I want to make friends and have a social life and want to go out,” said Wisch.

South Bay Young Adult Groups Silicon Valley Young Adults Division

(408) 357-7503 http://www.jvalley.org/svyad.html svyad@jvalley.org Jews Next Dor (408) 257-3333 http://cbdyag.wordpress.com/ jewsnextdor@gmailcom When she moved back to the Bay Area, Wisch said it was a no-brainer to get involved in Jewish young adult groups. “I'm a very social person, I'm a joiner,” she said. “I seek out groups and people.” While Jewish young adult groups fill a critical social need for the post-college, pre-family demographic, it is not always a perfect fit. Wisch says she wishes there were more activities related to social action and politics, not just schmoozing. Abramovitz notes that there's not always continuity as some people only come to certain types of events and not others, so months can go by without seeing certain people. Others admit that while the pool is narrowed, they still have to determine who in each group is friend or morethan-friend material. Still, the groups offer an important entrance. Says Amanda Orrin, director of the Silicon Valley Young Adults Group of the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley, “A lot of people, especially in this area, aren't from here. They are looking to be involved with adults that share a

common interest and Judaism is the starting point.” from “Holiday Season” p. 16 but the light is worth it. After lighting, march around your table, like Maccabees singing Hanukkah songs. Did you know that it’s a tradition for Jewish women to simply sit at the table and enjoy the light while the candles burn. Get all your cooking and serving done first and enjoy this relaxing 20-minute meditation mitzvah for women only! Use books and CDs to help your children get into the holiday spirit. There are many children’s books that tell the story of Hanukkah. One of my favorite picture books is “Festival of Lights, The Story of Hanukkah” by Maida Silverman. My daughter always loved the sticker book “Melly’s Menorah” by Amye Rosenberg. For older children, there is the chapter book “Jason’s Miracle: A Hanukkah Story” by Beryl Lieff Benderly. For even older kids and adults, there’s the book “The Complete Story of Chanukah” by Nissan Mindel. The best CD I’ve found for Jewish holidays is “To Life! Chanukah and Other Jewish Celebrations”. Cindy Paley also has a nice Chanukah CD and “A Singing Seder” for Passover—check out mostlymusic.com. Being with other Jewish children helps your child know he/she is not alone in celebrating holidays that are different from most of the other children in school. Community can be found at local synagogues. When they’re confronted by the gorgeous, glittery and glowing holiday symbols that permeate our society during the “holidays,” know that you can give your kids something they can enjoy that’s all their own. Children are content to know that some holidays belong to others when they have something special that belongs to them. You can succeed in imparting the very best that Judaism has to offer by enjoying the many Jewish holidays throughout the year. They may not have the glamour and glitter, but they can provide your children with deep meaning and miracles, a sense of values, and a heritage in which they can take immense pride. Allison Gilbert, LMFT is a Jewish mother who lives in Santa Cruz where she was PTA president for Westlake. She’s also a marriage and family therapist with offices in Santa Cruz and Los Gatos.

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December 2009 • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • www.jvalley.org

Yoffie to Reform Jews: eat less meat, blog more (JTA) Reform Jews should eat less red meat, plant synagogue gardens, and consider more carefully what food they serve in their synagogues, the movement's leader said. "We need to think about how the food we eat advances the values we hold as Reform Jews," Rabbi Eric Yoffie, president of the Union for Reform Judaism, said at the union's November biennial conference in Toronto. During his presidential sermon, Yoffie outlined the Union's Green Table/ Just Table Initiative. Noting that Americans are increasingly concerned about food issues, he urged Reform Jews to consider t h e e t h i c a l , environmental and health aspects of what they eat, and come up with food policies for their synagogues. He steered clear of promoting kashrut, saying "ours is an ethically based tradition." But rather than ignore dietary practice, as he said Reform leaders did a century ago, Yoffie noted that food choices are intimately connected to issues - such as environmentalism and social justice - that Reform Jews care about. Saying that he was not promoting vegetarianism, he said that cutting down on red meat "is an area where we can make a difference" in offsetting our carbon footprint. "Reducing our collective meat consumption by 20 percent would be

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comparable to every American driving a Prius," he said. Synagogues might also consider serving more communal meals, he suggested, as a way of building spiritual community. To help Reform Jews take these practical steps, the union has posted a food policy guide, sample curriculum for youth groups, gardening tips and information on how synagogues can set up Community Supported Agriculture programs. In his sermon, Yoffie also urged Reform congregations to harness the community-building power of the Internet and set up their own blogs. Calling such congregational blogs an "online Oral Torah," he said congregations need to think more creatively about social media. To help them do so, the union is offering a blogging platform, substantive and strategic support, and other resources. ď ™

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www.jvalley.org • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • December 2009

Obituaries DAVID L. BERGMAN April 29, 1937 - October 9, 2009 David was born in Atlanta, GA, to Charles and Polly Bergman. He graduated from Georgia Te c h with a Bachelor of Industrial Engineering in 1960 and held many jobs including at Boeing , Lockheed Missiles & Space, California Microwave and Intel. He was a registered Professional Engineer and received his MBA from SJSU in 1971. In 1987 he began his dream job with County of Santa Clara, Facilities Department as a construction projects manager, mostly overseeing projects dealing with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) and fire code compliance. His wife Pat would tell people, “He spends a lot of time in jail!” And if he heard it, he would add, “But I have a ‘Get-Out-of-JailFree’ card!” Many of his projects were in the jails and youth detention centers as well as the courts, communication center, and other County offices. He enjoyed his work and the people with whom he worked, and especially appreciated his colleague Siva Darbhamulla. He regretfully retired July 1 because of health issues. In 1960 David married Anita Gail Cohen of Pittsburgh, PA, who died of Hodgkin’s disease in 1964. He married Patricia H Gross of Fort Lauderdale, FL, in 1966. He was a student of the late Rav A. H. Lapin for 14 years, who gave him inspiration to do a great deal to further Jewish life in the South Bay area. He was very involved with the founding of Congregation Am Echad in 1970, South Peninsula Hebrew Day School in 1972, and Ahabat Torah in 1994. He was the president of Torah Academy for a year. He, with Rabbi Gedalia Meyer, founded and built the Mikvah (Jewish ritual bath) of San Jose of which David was president. As serious as he was about all these activities, he always liked to tell good old jokes. David's biggest wish was to take another trip to Israel for his birthday and he had even bought the tickets. But G-d said, “No.” The Chevra Kadisha puts a little earth from Israel on the body during it ritual. It is very comforting to the family to know that Israel came to David, and eventually, when we are all resurrected, we will all be together in Eretz Israel. David is survived by his beloved and loving family members: wife Pat; son Marcus, wife Teresa and their son Charles; son Ivan, wife Kiana and their daughter Naomi; and his brother Carl, wife Margie Odle and their daughters Sydney and Hannah. He was also very close to Pat’s sister Carol Clarkson and her daughter Joanna. The family wishes to thank Dr.

Sheryl Sun, his internist, and Dr. Uma Vadlakonda, his cardiologist, for their many years of care at Kaiser Permanente, Santa Clara; Bob Jackson of Oak Hill Funeral Home, Lima Family Mortuary, Menashe Taban and the Chevra Kadisha of the South Bay, Wayne Rose of Sinai Memorial Chapel, and Rabbi Simcha Green of Ahabat Torah for their assistance with all of the final arrangements. David was interred at Eternal Home Cemetery, Colma, on October 12. The family also wishes to thank the very many friends, relatives and neighbors who gave their support and condolences. In particular, Don Jamieson has been the neighbor the family could count on to help in so many ways and for so many years, Irene Johnson who frequently provided assistance, and Abe Gindi with whom David enjoyed many years of walks to and from synagogue. SAMUEL ENGEL May 1, 1929 - September 3, 2009 Sam was born in the town of Miory, in what was then Poland. In June 1942 the Nazis murdered the Jews of Miory, including Sam’s parents and brother. Sam ran away during the liquidation and hid in the forests and swamps of the region along with a few other survivors and Partisans until the Soviet Union regained control of the region in 1944. After the war he went to Austria where he completed his education and worked for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineering. He emigrated to the U.S. in 1955, came to California in 1962 and settled in Santa Clara County in 1965 where he worked for over 20 years at Lockheed Missiles and Space and he completed a Masters in Engineering at Stanford. During that time he also started a successful real estate investment and property management business. Though seriously ill for most of the last eight years of his life, he battled his disease with great courage and spirit, no doubt some of the same will to live that allowed him to survive the Holocaust. He died in Saratoga. He is survived by his wife Miriam of 51 years; son Isaac (Ruth) and their children, Jonathan and Ilana of San Diego; son Alan (Rachel) and their daughters Sarah and Daniella of Piedmont and son Leonard (Lainee) and their sons Benjamin and Noah of San Carlos. The Engel family was members of Congregation Beth David. GRACE IRENE FREIBERG March 11, 1918 - November 1, 2009 Grace Irene Freiberg of San Jose was born to David and Ida Arick in Southbridge, MA. Grace received a Bachelor of Arts in Education in what was then known as Worcester State Teacher’s College where she was a member of Kappa Delta Pi,

the National Honor Society in Education. After her graduation she married Abraham Freiberg of Framingham, MA in July 1940. They left the Boston area for San Jose in 1956. He preceded her in death in September 1998. Grace was employed by the Santa Clara County Library from 19601983. She is survived by her children: Allan of Soquel; Kenneth of Gilroy; Robert of Moss Beach and Deborah Paisner of Santa Fe, NM, a sister Shirley Mason of Seneca, SC, a brother Lawrence Feldman of Okeechobee, FL, nine grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and one greatgreat grandchild. Grace was a long time member of Temple Emanu-El and the Retired Public Employees Association. JOHN BOOKEY LETTWEEN December 3, 1962- September 18, 2009 John Bookey Lettween, loving son of Max and Carolyn Lettween of Los Gatos, beloved brother of Susan Lettween Carr of Malibu, CA, dear companion of Carlo Carpajal of Acapulco, Mexico has passed away. John graduated from Saratoga High School in 1980. He

RENA KRASNO

Rena Krasno passed away in Mountain View surrounded by family and friends. Rena lived a full life of travel and adventures spanning pre World War II Shanghai, through the creation of Israel and immigration to the United States in 1986. She never stopped learning and creating. From university to learning seven languages fluently, to working as a simultaneous translator, her quest for knowledge and excitement was insatiable.

resided in Scottsdale, AZ and Acapulco. Contributions in his memory may be made to the Bookey Memorial Fund, Congregation Shir Hadash, 20 Cherry Blossom Lane, Los Gatos, 95032. ROBERT M. SILVER 1931 - October 27, 2009 Robert M. Silver of San Jose died in Mountain View, CA. He was a business executive in the defense electronics industry. He was a member and twoterm president of Congregation Beth David in Saratoga, past-president of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, past board member of the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley, a long-time Mason and a lieutenant in the United States Air Force. He was the beloved husband of Sandy Silver; loving father of David Silver, Nancy Bromberg (Steve) and Hallie Bernstein (Steve); devoted grandfather of Joel, Scott, Heather, Kevin, Francie and Adam; dear brother of Howard Silver (Kathryn). Memorial contributions may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society or Congregation Beth David. Please send announcements and photos to Andrea Greyber, agreyber@yahoo. com or call her at (408) 377-6224. 1923 - Octoberr 29, 2009

In the last twenty years, she became prolific writer, authoring biographies and children’s books that were translated into many different languages. Her love of life is an inspiration to all who knew her. She is survived by her husband Hanan Krasno; two daughters, Dafna Baldwin (Rich) and Maya Mashhadian (Motke); and her grandchildren, Tal Mashhadian, Danna Paje, Micah Baldwin, Marissa Baldwin and Natalia Baldwin.

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December 2009 • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • www.jvalley.org

J e w i s h

P r o f e s s i o n a l

Attorneys

Attorneys

Brooke A. Blecher Blecher & Hubbell 1500 E. Hamilton Ave., Ste., 201 Campbell, CA 95008 Phone (408) 369-1010 brooke@blecherhubbell.com www.blecherhubbell.com Certified Family Law Specialist (State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization). Specializing in the practice of family law, divorce, custody disputes, and child and spousal support 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.

Eliana B. Weissman Hoge, Fenton, Jones & Appel 60 S. Market St., Ste. 1400 San Jose, CA 95113 (408) 287-9501 ebw@hogefenton.com www.hogefenton.com/weissman.html Specializing in family law matters.

Derr l H. H Molina Law Office of Derryl “Trust is our business!” 1142 S. Winchester Blvd., Ste. B San Jose, CA 95128 (408) 244-4992 attderryl@comcast.net Estate Planning, Probate, and Elder Law. Se habla espanol. 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 Adoption, Custody, Dissolutions, Guardianship, Juvenile Court, Paternity 101 Church St., Suite 7, Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 354-5590 Shannon Stein Law Offices of Shannon Stein 438 South Murphy Avenue Sunnyvale, CA 94086 Phone (408) 774-9097 www.shannonsteinlaw.com shannon@shannonsteinlaw.com Family Law Attorney, specializing in dissolutions, child custody, child support, mediation, restraining orders, limited scope representation, and post judgement issues.

Joyce W. Levy 400 Cambridge Avenue Palo Alto, CA 94306 (408) 287-1644 (650) 248-0888 levyesq@sbcglobal.net www.jlevyesq.com Certified specialist in estate planning, trust & probate law, California State Bar Board of Legal Specialization.

Carol Elias Zolla 1631 Willow Street, Suite 100 San Jose, CA 95125 (408) 264-9822 ext. 15 carol@zollalawfirm.com www.zollalawfirm.com Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust & Probate Law. The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization.

Darling & Fischer Chapel of the Hills 615 No. Santa Cruz Ave. Los Gatos, CA 95030 Phone (408) 354-7740 FE940

Garden Chapel 471 E. Santa Clara St. San Jose, CA 95112 Phone (408) 998-2226 FE557

Campbell Memorial Chapel 231 E. Campbell Ave. Campbell, CA 95008 Phone (408) 379-5010 FE898

D i r e c t o r y

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

AMB DESIGNS Balloon & Event Decor • Any Occasion, we do it all! Call Amy Blach, your Event Designer (408) 942-0852 ambdsgn@pacbell.net • www.ambdesigns.com

Financial Services

Contractors Alan Werba, CPA, CFP Werba & Davis Advisory Services, LLC 3055 Olin Ave., Suite 2000 San Jose, CA 95128 Tel. (408) 260-3109 Fax. (408) 423-0209 Fee-Based Portfolio Management since 1990 Securities offered through Loring Ward Securities Inc., member FINRA/SIPC

Contraccting H2N Painting and General Contracting P.O. Box 1943 Cupertino, CA 95015 Cal Lic#636286 (408) 375-1037 “On-Time, On-Budget” Painting, Pressure Washing, Deck Restoration, General Contracting, Plantation Shutters $32.20 Per Sq Ft installed

Commercial Real Estate

1671 Dell Avenue, Suite 218 Campbell, CA 95008 Commercial Real Estate Management, Investments, and Leasing. Call us for your property management, leasing and sales needs. Allen Guggenheim & Gary Naillon (408) 871-8722 x222 • (408) 834-4959 fax www.guggenheimrgi.com

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney Robert Chaykin Vice President / Branch Manager 16000 Los Gatos Blvd. Los Gatos, CA. 95032 (408) 358-0988 robert.chaykin@morganstanley.com We offer comprehensive financial planning, asset allocation strategies, college savings plans, and retirement planning. Investments and services are offered through Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, member SIPC.

Dentists

Matchmaker

Dr. Zuri Barniv, DDS 1210 E. Arques Ave., Suite 200 Sunnyvale, CA 94085 (408) 733-1124 Barniv_Dental@yahoo.com www.Barniv-Dental.com Dr. Barniv is a university faculty member, practicing high-quality dentistry in a mercury-free office with digital X-rays. Dentist speaks Hebrew.

Soul Mates Unlimited TM Judith Gottesman, MSW (510) 418-8813 cell judithrachelleg@gmail.com www.soulmatesunlimited.com Personalized matchmaking, confidential; excellent track record; all ages; state-wide.

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.

Home of Peace Cemetery and Mausoleum Founded 1853

Owned and Operated by Temple Emanu-El South Bay Area’s only Jewish-owned Cemetery, Mausoleum and Columbarium Pre-Need Terms

Bob Basuino, Administrator

Events

Cantor - Educator

(408) 292-0939 cemetery@templesanjose.org

New w Peninsula Office 777 Woodside Road, Suite C Redwood City (408) 297-3636 FD 1830

Wayne A. Rose Pre-need funeral arrangements available.

Peninsula-South Bay Director wrose@sinaichapel.org FDR 979

Gene B. Kaufman, Executive Director

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www.jvalley.org • JEWISH COMMUNITY NEWS • December 2009

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