JCN March 2010

408.358.3033 www.jvalley.org

jewish c mmunity news

for everything jewish in silicon valley...in print

Bake sale for Haiti p. 13

First graders at Yavneh raise $275 for Haiti at bakesale When the first grade (Kitah Alef) Yavneh Day School class talked with their teacher in the days following the earthquake in Haiti, the sentiment was clear. The six and seven-year-olds wanted to help. After brainstorming different ideas, the students decided they would like to host a bake sale.

Teacher Jordan Emmart sent an email to parents, telling them of the children’s interest in helping and asking for baked goods to be brought to school for the sale.

“It really came out from the first graders,” said Dana Lowy, whose seven-year-old daughter is in the class. "It wasn’t something that was pushed on them, it came from their idea to help.”

The students arrived at school the next week with home-baked cookies, cupcakes and even some gluten-free items. In the end, the students raised $275, which the entire first grade class delivered to Jewish Federation CEO, Jyl Jurman, in the adjoining building of the Levy Family Campus.

“They were just adorable, and so proud of their efforts,” said Jurman. “This is what Jewish day school is all about, teaching kids at this young age the reward of helping cont. on p. 13

IN THIS ISSUE: Teens bake "Challahs for Dallahs"...............p.5

Silicon Valley celebrates Israel p. 9

Beth David receives national awards.......p.6 Shir Hadash celebrates 30 years.....................p.7 Over 500 people attend Jewbilee.....p.10 Federation Annual Event photos..........p.15 Local Summer Camp Guide......................p.16 Passover Section...p.21 Published by the Jewish Federation of Silicon valley Vol. #72, Issue #1, MARCH 2010 Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley 14855 Oka Rd. Suite 200 Los Gatos, CA 95032 Change Service Requested

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

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March 2010 • JCN • www.jvalley.org

from the federation ceo & president Message from the CEO As I sit down to write this column, I am struck by how hard our Federation works behind the scenes for the community. Our volunteers and staff are diligent and serious about the tasks and challenges we face. Since our introduction of our redesigned Jewish Community News in early January, our website has been launched and new collateral has been released. We hope you have heard our ad on KLIV 1590 AM. If you haven’t – keep your radio tuned. You will hear Shannon Guggenheim’s dulcet voice singing a jaunty tune to promote the Jewish Federation to drive-time listeners. Hopefully, you have seen our new website www.jvalley.org and one or all of the six banners which identify programs for seniors, kids, teens, families, newcomers and young adults in our community. The banners identify programs which the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley supports with donations from people like you.

On January 30th, we hosted the Annual dinner featuring Michael Chabon and then the very next day we held Super Sunday. I would like to thank our Annual dinner chairpeople, Susan Ellenberg, Julie Krigel, Bonnie Slavitt Moore and Roni Wolfe, and our Super Sunday chair, Leya Babchin, for their time and effort in making each event successful and worthy. On February 10th, Women’s Philanthropy hosted their Aliyah event with guest speaker Judy Feld Carr. Chairs Linda Fox Mighdoll, Alyssia Berkowitz and Claudia Muller did a fabulous job filling the room with the devoted women of our community. And I look forward to a fabulous Connections 2010 chaired by Marcia Klein and her dedicated committee. I would also like to acknowledge the staff of the Federation for their extra time and effort to make these events run smoothly.

On a somber note, I would like to acknowledge those in the community who entrusted us to assist in Haiti through their charitable giving. We were able to direct 100% of the donations to the Haiti Earthquake Relief effort. The Jewish Federation is able to funnel the entirety of your donation to the crisis center because of the infrastructure laid down through the donations to the Annual Campaign. The Annual Campaign sustains relationships with our overseas partners, the Joint Distribution Committee and the Jewish Agency for Israel. You can be assured that 100% of your donation to the Haiti Relief effort went to good use. Many of us read about the extraordinary response of the Israel Defense Forces in Haiti. The Israelis brought the largest and most responsive relief workers to Haiti in those first crucial days.

Your donation went, in its entirety, to set up the field hospital in Haiti which is credited with saving lives and delivering newborns successfully. Not only did you participate in saving lives, but these deeds created more good will for Israel than any publicity campaign.

I am proud of the successes we were able to achieve in a short time. I hope that the economy will rebound and we will continue our progress towards our fundraising goals on behalf of the community. Here at the Federation, we are working harder and smarter with more transparency than ever. We are proud to have been named a four-star Charity Navigator non-profit. We know that we are kosher – and we have Charity Navigator's heksher, too.

jyl jurman CEO, Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley

Cecily Ruttenberg Executive Editor Pat Bergman and Kay Gatell Editorial Assistants 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 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 Billing questions call Michelle Ryder (408) 357-7505 Advertising call Lori Cinnamon (408) 406-0059 Circulation call Danelle Rhiner (408) 358-3033 Assoc. Member: American Jewish Press Association

DEADLINES: EDITORIAL: Apr. 27, ADVERTISING: May 4

CANDLELIGHTING FOR SAN JOSE Mar. 5.....................................5:47 PM Mar. 12...................................5:54 PM Mar. 19...................................7:00 PM Mar. 26...................................7:06 PM Mar. 29, 1st night Pesach.......7:09 PM Mar. 30, 2nd night Pesach......8:07 PM Apr. 2......................................7:13 PM Apr. 4., 7th night Pesach........7:14 PM Apr. 5, 8th night Pesach.........8:13 PM

Apr. 9....................................7:19 PM Apr. 16..................................7:25 PM Apr. 23..................................7:31 PM Apr. 30..................................7:38 PM May 7....................................7:44 PM May 14..................................7:50 PM May 18, 1st night Shavuot....7:53 PM May 19, 2nd night Shavuot...8:56 PM May 21..................................7:56 PM

You’re Invited to Join Us! “Hagadah Hop”, Sunday, March 21 9:30-12:30 Fun interactive family program open to the community See our ad in this issue for more details

19700 Prospect Road, Saratoga, CA 95070

www.beth-david.org Daniel J. Pressman, Senior Rabbi Aaron L. Schonbrun, Rabbi

Service Schedule Daily Minyan Mon-Thurs 7:00pm Sunday 9:30am Shabbat Services Friday: 6:30pm Saturday: 9:30am Shir Shabbat Every 4th Friday 3/26, 4/23, 5/28

Family & Youth Shabbat Mishpaha (Family) Service & Supper* Most First Fridays 5/7…6:30pm PJ Shabbat & Dinner* Fridays 3/19, 4/30...6:00pm Tot Shabbat (ages 0-5) 2nd & 4th Saturday 3/13, 3/27, 4/10, 4/24, 5/8, 5/22 10:30 am -11:30 am Haverim Serivces (ages 5-8) 2nd & 4th Saturday 3/13, 3/27, 4/10, & 24, 5/8 & 5/22 10:30am – 11:30am Youth Congregation (ages 9-12) Saturday Mornings 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/24, 5/1, 5/22 10am-11:45am

See Website for details

PASSOVER, March 29 thru April 6 services: Pesach Day 1 - Tuesday Mar. 30 - services @ 9:30am Pesach Day 2 - Wednesday Mar. 31 - services @ 9:30am Shabbat Hol HaMoed Pesah - Saturday April 3 - services @ 9:30am Pesach Day 7 - Monday April 5 - services @ 9:30am Pesach Day 8 - Tuesday April 6 - services @ 9:30am (includes Yizkor) Lunch and Learn Seminar Sundays The Lord of Hosts: Yahweh as a War God, March 7, 12:30-3pm Dr. Jonathan Roth, Professor of History, San Jose State University This seminar will review the Biblical term “Lord of Hosts”, which comes from the Hebrew “Yahweh Tzaba’ot”. In early books of the Bible, God often functions as a general, directing the Children of Israel in wars. Worship of the “Lord of Hosts” might have played an important role in the survival of Judaism in exile. This presentation will explain how war played a much larger role in the development of early Judaism than is often recognized.

Mystery and History in the Dead Sea Scrolls, April 25, 12:30-3pm Dr. Steven Weitzman, Professor of Jewish & Religious Studies, Stanford University The Dead Sea Scrolls have been hailed as the greatest discovery of ancient manuscripts in modern times, but what makes them so important and so controversial? What do the Dead Sea Scrolls tell us about the Bible and origins of Judaism that was not known before their discovery? Stripping away the sensationalism, this talk will introduce the Dead Sea Scrolls, explore their signiƤcance for understanding ancient Judaism, and address the controversy.

Green Fair, April 18, 1-6pm Information and education of the practicalities of “going green” both from Jewish as well as the modern daily life perspective Shavuot May 18 Leil Tikkun Shavuot/Night of Study 8pm - Midnight May 19 Shavuot Services at 9:30am May 20 Shavout Services at 9:30am (includes Yizkor)

*RSVP at www.beth-david.org/rsvp

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community photos

Local Holocaust survivor Jack Tramiel is pictured with students from Congregation Beth David who interviewed him before an audience of nearly 200 people. The interview followed a screening of the documentary, "The Angel of Ahlem," about the liberator of the Ahlem work camp in which Jack Tramiel was incarcerated.

Phyllis Mattson received a proclamation from the San Jose City Council recognizing the fifth annual observance of International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

Hanukkah at the Atria, organized by Jewish Family Services: 10 residents and 11 children attended Mitzvah Day at Atria Willow Glen; the children led a Hanukkah and Shabbat Program.

Leon Leyson (center) was the youngest person on Schindler's List, and now travels the country speaking to students about his experience. He spoke at the Jewbilee Festival of Learning sponsored by the APJCC, and also with Yavneh 7th and 8th grade students.

Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley hosted two inter-generational Knitzvah Day events where kids, teens, adults and seniors (often belonging to the same family) spent an afternoon making tie blankets for needy individuals in the community. One of the events, hosted by Yavneh Middle School, brought togehter 13 seniors and 40 children as part of the school's Generations program.

Sinai hosts a night of magic, comedy and fundraising On Saturday, December 5, Sinai hosted a successful fundraising evening of comedy and magic. Over 180 guests were entertained by the Bruce Barley Combo, ten spellbinding stage and walk-around magicians, and hilarious comedians Dan St. Paul and Jeff Applebaum. Royal Liquors donated a full menu of assorted martinis, along with wine and beer. Hors d’oeuvres from Lottie Monarch and the synagogue's B'teavon Committee were a big hit along with luscious desserts donated by the Kitchen Table restaurant. Finally, nearly fifty items, including a ski vacation, Almaden Valley Athletic Club and APJCC memberships and fine wines, were offered during a silent auction, along with fantastic mini-events hosted by Sinai members.

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March 2010 • JCN • www.jvalley.org

local news Hillel of Silicon Valley honors community and student volunteers Hillel of Silicon Valley (HSV) will honor several important volunteers at its major fundraiser, "Pillars of the Community Awards Lunch," on Sunday, April 18 at 11:30 a.m. at the APJCC auditorium at the Levy Family Campus in Los Gatos.

Community honorees are Allen Guggenheim, Dr. Victoria Harrison, Susan Levine and David Meir-Levi.

Student honorees from the five campuses are Diana Buck (West Valley College), Ilana Eydus (Santa Clara University), Hagar Memlis (Foothill College), Michelle Salinsky (San Jose State University), and Bella Yashayev (DeAnza College). HSV is the focal point for Jewish programming and fellowship on campus.

Following graduation, many students become young Jewish leaders in their local community.

Please join HSV for a catered lunch and silent auction. Visit www.hillelsv.org or (408) 286-6669 for registration and tribute ad information.

Free tax preparation and electronic filing Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley is offering free tax preparation assistance for low to moderate income taxpayers during the upcoming tax season. Trained tax preparers will help qualified people receive Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC). The EITC is a federal tax benefit for working people that can help them to get up to $4,500 in tax refunds. This money can make a real difference in peoples' lives.

This free service is available until April 15.

Please contact Caroline Golpashin at (408) 357-7449 to schedule an appointment or to get more information.

Do you know a Holocaust victim?

Yad Vashem, with its partners, has collected and recorded the names and biographical details of half of the six-million Jews murdered by the Nazis and their accomplices.

Millions more still remain unidentified; it is our collective duty to persist until all their names are recovered. Do you know of a Holocaust victim? Submit Pages of Testimony and send photographs of the victims so they will always be remembered. Visit www.yadvashem.org

Teens sell "Challah for Dallahs" On Sunday mornings at Temple Emanu-El in San Jose, a crowd is nearly always gathered around a table of teenagers and the smell of fresh-baked bread. Nearby a poster offers the explanation, “Challahs for Dallahs.”

The class of six teens (Analise and Ariana Henry, Anna Levine, Cale Horeff, Isabel Haggerty and Alicia Blumstein) started one Sunday in October when one student and teacher Lisa Sobel decided to bake shortbread and sell it for $1 apiece to raise funds for charity. The following week the class became official with students selling palm-sized loaves of challah for $1, and the name Challahs for Dallahs just stuck. The class specializes in different flavors of challah such as pumpkin spice, chocolate chip, and cranberry. month, students Teens in Emanu-El's religious school bake and sell Challah on Sundays, donating the Each gather around a table in proceeds to chairty. the Emanu-El Cottage to discuss flavors and to which local, national or international charity they wish to donate their challah money.

In October and November, the students raised $176 dollars for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, and in December they sold challah and Chanukah treat boxes to raise funds for Toys for Tots. “It’s important to give back to the less fortunate and to spread awareness to our Temple community while providing them with an opportunity to help others,” Isabel Haggerty said one Sunday afternoon.

Challahs for Dallahs is currently working on raising funds for the Red Cross efforts in Haiti. Over the past few weeks, the students have been multi-tasking during class, making friendship bracelets and keychains in addition to challah to show support for the Haitian people. On March 7, the bracelets and keychains will be sold “to show our support and to remind people in our community that there is still work to do even after the rescue efforts stop,” Ariana Henry said. “We shouldn’t forget Haitians in their time of need,” remarked Ariana’s sister, Analise. In three weeks, the class has raised over $100 for the Red Cross and they hope to raise $500 by the end of the year.

For more information about Challah for Dallahs, call Temple Emanu-El’s office at (408) 292-0939. Be sure to check out their table after Passover when the cranberry and chocolate chip challah will be back!

Shir Hadash programs for young families This summer, Congregation Shir Hadash will be hosting a summer camp for preschool age children for the first time in its 30-year history. The congregation will utilize its new Early Childhood Center, which has an enrollment of 26 children and will grow to 55.

The summer program will focus on discovery and learning through water, art, sports, gardening, music and play. Like the school-year program, camp will incorporate a Reggio-inspired early childhood education model.

Shir Hadash has also revitalized its family services by introducing a NoShush Shabbat. This 45-minute service is co-led by the rabbinic team and songleader Angela Gold, who has brought a dynamic new spirit to the youth music program. To bring people together and off of the page of a printed siddur, the words of the songs and prayers are projected onto a large screen. “Using PowerPoint has changed the spirit of the service in surprising ways,” remarked Rabbi Lisa Levenberg. “People’s heads are up, looking at each other, instead of down, so their voices really ring out. Kids clap more and even dance. And parents hands are free to hold and cuddle their children without worrying about dropping their siddurim. As much as I value a traditional siddur, going ‘paperless’ once in a while is a lot of fun.”

For more information about the Early Childhood Center’s summer Junior Explorers or school-year program, contact Robin Adelman at (408) 358-1751 x 115 or visit shirhadashpreschool.org.

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local news Community Yom HaShoah April 11 at Shir Hadash

Yavneh Day School middle schoolers learn off campus on annual trips

The Community Yom HaShoah Holocaust Memorial Service will be held this year on Sunday, April 11, at 7:30 p.m. at Congregation Shir Hadash, 20 Cherry Blossom Lane, in Los Gatos. Rabbis from local congregations have been invited to participate in the service and a joint choir under the direction of Cantor Felder-Levy will participate.

“We’ve got to get out of this place!” pronounces Rashna Wadia, lead teacher of Yavneh’s middle school. She isn’t claustrophobic and she truly loves her job, but, according to Rashna and so many outdoor education specialists, there is only so much you can learn in the classroom, whether about nature, culture or politics. Experiential learning is an essential component of Yavneh’s

This year’s theme will be “Ledor Vador--From Generation to Generation--Passing on the Legacy of the Holocaust.”

At 6:15 p.m. preceding the service, there will be a special showing of "Blessed Is the Match," the first documentary feature about Hannah Senesh, the World War II-era poet and diarist who left the relative safety of British Mandate Palestine to paratroop behind Nazi lines to rescue the Jews of Hungary. With unprecedented access to the Senesh family archive, this powerful film tells this moving story through the writings and photographs of Hannah and her mother Catherine. The special 50-minute version of the film was created by its director especially for showings to middle school and high school students and their families. Following the film, there will be discussion organized by Silicon Valley Faces (the former NCCJ), which organizes Holocaust education for over 4,100 public school students each year. For questions please contact Shir Hadash at (408) 358-1751.

'Stones & minerals' art exhibit at the APJCC The Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center (JCC) Silicon Valley will host a new art exhibit SPONTANEOUS ERUPTIONS, by Francine Markoe. The exhibition will be open to the public daily from February 12 through April 8 during JCC operating hours.

Francine Markoe was born in New York City and has been exhibiting her art for over 30 years. Her work has evolved from abstracts and landscapes to something quite unique using actual stones and minerals in the canvases. This is a style all her own. Markoe’s love of minerals started her on this path. She has studied with several teachers and attended N.Y.U and Foothill College.

She has been told that rocks are a metaphor in Judaism. “Nature is a part of all our lives and my paintings remind people of places they have been and enjoyed,” Markoe said. For more information contact the APJCC at (408) 358-3636.

Beth David receives national recognition Congregation Beth David received three Solomon Schechter Awards at the recent Biennial International Convention of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism.

The prestigious awards are one of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism's longest continuously running programs.

Beth David received gold awards in the categories of “Outreach to Young Adults and Singles,” for its Jews Next Dor group, and “Membership (Recruitment)” for its outreach efforts to the larger community and unaffiliated. Beth David also received a silver award in the category of “Worship and Ritual” for its High Holy Day Teen Experience, a special program for 8th-12th graders during High Holy Day services.

Rabbi Daniel Pressman, Beth Left to right: Margie Pomerantz, president, Northern California Region David’s senior rabbi, attended of USCJ and Beth David member; Rabbi Steven Wernick, executive vice the convention, and observed president and CEO of USCJ; Rabbi Daniel Pressman, senior rabbi of the winning submissions first Congregation Beth David. hand. He said, “The total impact was of a vital, creative movement with many vibrant, innovative synagogues. I am proud that Beth David is in such company.”

Yavneh Day School's Kitah Hay class spent a week at the outdoor school at Walden West. They had fun learning hands-on about science in nature.

middle school curriculum and so, each grade heads out every spring for an “on location” adventure.

Sixth graders don’t travel many miles, but they feel worlds away from their usual environments during the five days they spend at the Marin Headlands Institute. Their focus is marine science, wildlife and ecology. They engage in team building activities as they explore tide pools and ponds, hike through the magnificent Muir Woods and learn about the tremendous resources located practically in their own backyard.

Yosemite National Park is the much anticipated destination for Yavneh 7th graders. In that setting, students study geology, wildlife, natural history and art and literature that focus on Yosemite Valley.

They buddy up in tent cabins and look forward to the heralded Vernal Falls hike each year. Both of these nature-oriented trips also allow the students to continue to foster their spiritual identity and to explore G-d and prayer in an inspiring and wondrous new way.

Yavneh’s graduating class really gets out of town.

Eight days divided between Washington, DC and New York City expose the students to American civics and politics, the immigrant experience throughout history, and, of course, great deli sandwiches and Broadway! In DC the students focus on their civic responsibility both as American citizens and from the Jewish perspective of the obligation to participate in Tikkun Olam. In New York the students experience the vibrancy of diverse Jewish communities only New York can afford from Crown Heights to a song-and-dancefilled Shabbat at B’nei Jeshurun on the Upper West Side.

March 2010 • JCN • www.jvalley.org

Shir Hadash Early Childhood Center

Register Now!

BE A JUNIOR EXPLORER

Explore - nature, gardening, art, water, music - indoors and out June 21, 2010 to August 13, 2010 Open 7am to 6 pm Full or part day schedules 2, 3 or 5 days a week • 4 or 8 week sessions

Registering now for 2010-2011

New facility, small classes Full & part day programs for children 2 years to Kindergarten Reggio-inspired curriculum Joyful Reform Jewish environment Children of all faiths welcome

For more information email Robin Adelman at robin@ShirHadash.org or call 408-358-1751 ext. 115 20 Cherry Blossom Lane Los Gatos, 95032

Congregation Shir Hadash celebrates 30 years This spring marks 30 years from when 100 founding families came together to create a democratic and participatory Reform congregation on the west side of Silicon Valley.

Shir Hadash’s first president Mel Jacobs (of blessed memory), with the founding steering committee, wanted to create a congregation with a “small temple feel.” The idea was for congregants to stay connected: everyone should volunteer on some level and every person counted, whether in their votes or in expressing their opinions and ideas.

At that time Shir Hadash was a very young congregation, the children outnumbered the adults and only a year after their birth, the congregation doubled in size to over 200 families. In 1981, a Holocaust Torah was donated from a village in Czechoslovakia together with a Torah from Mildred and Len Hesterman.

In 1984 Henry Karp became the congregation’s second Rabbi. At that time the congregation was profoundly shaken by the death of Mel Jacobs, their president, founder and friend. Rabbi Henry Karp preached, “Mel Jacobs was a leader of our people. Called upon by G-d, he smiled his heart-warming smile, and set about to create a loving congregation…Like Moses and David before him, Mel Jacobs died before his task was finished.”

Finding a permanent home for the congregation became a priority. Tom Baer, president 1984-1986, was optimistic: “No problem is insurmountable; volunteers step forward to tackle every task. What a joy and privilege it is to be in such wonderful company.” In 1986 the congregation finally found a home on Shannon Road in Los Gatos and embarked on a capital campaign.

In one month they raised $550,000. Soon the goal of $1 million dollars was reached and the congregation celebrated. cont. on p.33

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local news Local couple honored for helping emigres and others in need Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley (JFS SV) will honor longtime supporters Richard and Eleanor Rusnak at its annual fundraising dinner, A Yellow Tie Affair, on March 21 at the City Hall Rotunda in San Jose.

The Rusnaks became involved in JFS SV many years ago when the agency was resettling Russian emigres. Eleanor had just finished learning how to teach English as a Second Language and was looking for an opportunity to give back to the community. Eleanor had the joy of helping give many Russians their start in America. The Rusnaks also hired many émigrés to work at their business, Russell’s Furniture.

Richard & Eleanor Rusnak

One couple that they helped is still very much in their lives, sharing Thanksgiving, Pesach and other special events.

This was a very young couple that had just arrived in this country, and they were about to have a baby. As Richard says, “The couple’s family sent them to the U.S. so that their baby could be born a U.S. citizen. They arrived alone and were given a tiny apartment. They had very little for themselves or their new baby.” Eleanor continues the story: “I saw a need and quickly recruited my close friends Ellie Gerstley, Marilyn Silver, and Sally Siegel to help organize a baby shower to help this young couple. Dozens of people showed up with gifts for the baby. People were so generous, even those who could not attend sent gifts anyway. The shower was just in the nick of time because the baby was born later that night.” Through the Rusnaks’ sponsorship, this couple has become a true American success story. She is now a doctor and her husband is a manager in the tech industry.

Richard and Eleanor agree that the beauty of JFS SV is in its “on the ground” services that assist people in crisis. According to Eleanor, “JFS SV can respond quickly to crisis situations and offer aid to those who need it most.” JFS is not there just for refugees. The extended Rusnak family has benefited from JFS services in finding a loving caretaker for Eleanor’s mother and offering excellent counseling services for their grandchildren after a divorce. The Rusnaks stress that life is a series of give and take. It has been their honor to give but our good luck to receive.

The Yellow Tie fundraiser is designed to be the first leg leading up to the popular Silicon Valley Duck Race, and will raise money for Project N.O.A.H. (No One Abandoned Here). The dinner will serve gourmet cuisine prepared and presented by local chefs paired with wine poured by select vintners. Tickets are $95 and can be purchased on the JFS SV website.

For more information about the event or any other services offered by JFS SV, please contact Sandi Gaertner at sandig@jfssv.org or go to the JFS SV website www.jfssv.org or call (408) 556-0600.

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www.jvalley.org • JCN • March 2010

local news Jack Moore and Bonnie Slavitt Moore honored by the APJCC at May 15 gala The Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center (APJCC) will be honoring two pillars of Silicon Valley’s Jewish community, Jack Moore and Bonnie Slavitt Moore, at the APJCC’s upcoming Gala.

Jack and Bonnie have been involved in the Silicon Valley Jewish community for countless years, volunteering both their time and money.

Long-time friend Sylvia Metz says, “You’ve heard the saying, 'put your money where your mouth is.' Well, in the case of Jack and Bonnie, it’s the whole package, the mouth and the money!”

Says Cyndi Sherman, director of the JCC Preschool and 20-plus-year JCC employee, “Bonnie and Jack put astounding amounts of energy and enthusiasm into everything they do and care about, be it working on the finance committee or volunteering for the Grandpals program. The APJCC is a lucky recipient of that generosity of spirit.”

Jack is on the APJCC Board of Directors and its Finance Committee. His first supportive move, back in 1986, came when he purchased a 1955 Chevrolet Sedan at the 1986 JCC Gala. Since then, he has volunteered in numerous other capacities, including helping clear the Oka Road site in preparation for the new Levy Campus facility.

According to Sylvia, “I am so glad Jack’s gotten involved in the JCC. He’s the only man with all these women and fits right in. We are having so much fun with him.”

Jack’s philanthropic pursuits extend beyond the JCC. He joined the Congregation Beth David board and served several stints on the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley board.

Bonnie, too, has had a hand in nearly every South Bay Jewish community organization. She has had leadership positions in Hillel of Silicon Valley, the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley, Yavneh Day School, Congregation Beth David, and the Council for Jewish Education in San Jose. Says Metz, “Bonnie and Jack are a phenomenal team. Our friendship blossomed when she solicited me. Can you imagine becoming friends with someone that way? But that’s Bonnie’s charm and her dedication. Even when they joined me on vacation recently, they were working for Jewish causes the whole time.”

Jack and Bonnie were among the first members of the community to sign the Federation’s Book of Life, indicating that they have remembered the Federation in their wills. They have both been active in encouraging other members of the Jewish community to do the same!

Bonnie and her husband Jack Moore have four adult children, three grandchildren, and an English springer spaniel named Popper.

To purchase gala tickets, information on sponsorship or tribute ads, contact Diana Schnable at (408) 357-7402 or email Diana@svjcc.org.

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Weekly boxes of organic fruits and veggies at the APJCC Individuals tired of weekend farmer’s markets and battling the produce aisle in search of affordable organic vegetables and fruit— get ready for Teva To You. Back for its second year, this Community Supported Agriculture program of the Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center offers weekly boxes of organic fruits and vegetables picked from two small, independently-owned organic farms: Mariquita Farm in Hollister and High Ground Organics in Watsonville.

In addition, people who sign up for the weekly box are invited to a series of optional programs including visits to the farms, talks by APJCC Rabbi Fenton about the connection between Judaism and food, and other tastings and live music events. Other events may include cooking classes or contests, a film screening and panel discussion, and a visit to a recycling center.

Building a relationship with local farms in the context of a Jewish program, Teva To You was designed to encourage conversation about where food comes from and a person's responsibility to his or her community and the greater world.

Each “share” of the weekly delivery is a large box of fresh, organic, seasonal produce–it will easily feed a family of four. Weekly shares cost $22, and there are a variety of plans are available to fit different needs. For more information, please visit www.svjcc.org or check out the Facebook group: Teva2You or call (408) 357-7413.

Teva To You is also looking for additional committee members who will have a hand in planning and shaping this season’s programming. “There are so many opportunities for learning about Jewish values and solidifying community, but we need volunteers to make them a reality. It’s a wonderful thing that this program is run almost entirely by volunteers,” Rabbi Fenton explained.

Individuals interested in joining this committee can contact Rabbi Fenton at tevatoyou@gmail.com.

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SILICON VALLEY

TEL AVIV

CELEBRATES

JERUSALEM

March 2010 • JCN • www.jvalley.org

Join us as Israel’s most celebrated cities come to life at the Levy Family Campus in celebration of Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israel’s Independence Day).

IT’S ALL HAPPENING ON SUNDAY, MAY 9, 2010.

1:00PM–3:30PM: Spend the day in Israel Grab a passport at the Information Station and start your adventure on Propella, our huge inflatable airplane. Once you’ve “arrived” in Israel, the festive, family-oriented celebration will feature live entertainment and contests, Israeli food demonstrations and vendors, Israeli wine and beer tasting, folk dancing, informational displays and speakers, a special photo exhibit and art exhibitions, activities for children, teens, adults and seniors, and arts and crafts. ;d`eo ?ihW[b_ <eba :WdY_d] _d BEERSHEVA FbWo _d W ]eb\ jekhdWc[dj _d CAESAREA FWcf[h oekhi[b\ Wj j^[ DEAD SEA 9ecckd[ m_j^ jhef_YWb Ói^ WdZ jWa[ W Z_f WdZ h[bWn ed j^[ beaches of EILAT ;nf[h_[dY[ b_l_d] ed W A_XXkjp _d j^[ GALILEE ;d`eo j^[ if_h_ji e\ j^[ GOLAN HEIGHTS H[Ô[Yj ed j^[ if_h_jkWb_jo e\ JERUSALEM JWYab[ MASADA and make it to the summit :_] \eh Whj_\WYji _d TIBERIAS ;d`eo j^[ X[Wkjo e\ Whj _d SAFED ;d`eo '&' o[Whi e\ TEL AVIV

Contests KdZ[h j^[ [dehceki Xbk[ WdZ m^_j[ j[dj" ]k[iji m_bb [d`eo j^[ ,j^ WddkWb Ç@[m_i^ 7c[h_YWd ?ZebÈ I_d]_d] 9ecf[j_j_ed WdZ j^[ ÇC[diY^ 9^[\È ?ihW[b_ \eeZ Yeea_d] Yecf[j_j_ed$ Please visit www.jvalley.org to sign up for the contests.

3:30PM-5:00PM: Israel After Hours Join us for a live concert with Jewish rock artist Sheldon Low. Sing along with Low’s rock melodies that resonate with kids.

For everything Jewish and more information visit www.jvalley.org or call (408) 358-3033

CAESAREA

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SPONSORED BY 7ZZ_ied F[dpWa @[m_i^ 9ecckd_jo 9[dj[h 7^WXWj JehW^ Anti-Defamation League BBYO 9^W_ >eki[ 9ed]h[]Wj_ed 8[j^ :Wl_Z 9ed]h[]Wj_ed ;c[j^ 9ed]h[]Wj_ed I^_h >WZWi^ 9ed]h[]Wj_ed I_dW_ 9edikbWj[ =[d[hWb e\ ?ihW[b >Wj_alW^ >eki[ >_bb[b e\ I_b_Yed LWbb[o ?ihW[b 9[dj[h <h_[dZi e\ j^[ ?ihW[b :[\[di[ <ehY[i @[m_i^ <Wc_bo I[hl_Y[i e\ I_b_Yed LWbb[o @[m_i^ =_hb IYekji e\ Dehj^[hd 9Wb_\ehd_W Jewish Study Network A[^_bbW^ >_]^ IY^eeb Iekj^ F[d_dikbW >[Xh[m :Wo IY^eeb J[cfb[ ;cWdk#;b Lebkdj[[hi \eh ?ihW[b Yavneh Day School List in formation

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www.jvalley.org • JCN • March 2010

jewbilee

500 plus turn out for Jewbilee day of learning at the APJCC More than 500 people turned out for Jewbilee at the Addison-Penzak JCC of Silicon Valley on Sunday afternoon, January 24. Jewbilee was a celebration of Jewish life in the Bay Area, with a full afternoon of Judaica classes, workshops and performances, activities for children, and a kosher buffet.

Said attendee Jan Rose: “I thought it was really wonderful. It was far and away so much more than our nights of learning have been in the past. There was so much to choose from. The classes that I attended were very thoughtfully presented. I went to see the Schindler’s List Holocaust survivor who I could have listened to forever. I went to Eric Rosenbloom (who works for the Santa Clara Valley Water District and is a mikvah guide) and Leslie Alexander present about Judaism and water. I learned things about water that I never knew. And I went to Aaron Hahn Tapper's presentation about Isaac and Ishmael and the Israeli and Palestinian conflict. He’s just a brilliant guy. I felt that it was very high-quality teaching. There were so many choices. And it was the most exciting community learning experience. It was really a wonderful afternoon and evening. I loved the concert close. It was a nice way to wind down from cramming all that into your brain.”

Kathy Gottfried and several young friends enjoy the kosher buffet.

The crowd entering the Addison-Penzak JCC lobby for Jewbilee Rabbi Joshua Fenton, Director of the APJCC Center for Jewish Life & Learning, who organized Jewbilee

Rabbi Dana Magat of Temple Emanu-El (right) and Idelle Cagan (Ieft) look at the day’s program.

David Sharpe (left) of the PapaHugs band plays for the crowd while Aaron Zolla (right) claps along.

11

March 2010 • JCN • www.jvalley.org

A powerful display of 600 pages of Mein Kampf transformed by artists, writers, poets, musicians, film-makers, journalists, students, survivors, and others from around the world.

“What should we do with such a book? Ban it? Some would still pass it around on the sly. Forget it? It would be an insult to the millions who died because of it. Burn it? It would be resorting to the methods used by the Nazis during Kristallnacht. Linda Ellia’s luminous intuition was to use this book as a catalyst for memories….It summons us to never forget what was.”

Feb 11–Jun 8, 2010

– Simone Veil Former President of the European Parliament and Holocaust survivor

This exhibition has been organized by the Museum with the generous support of the Jewish Community Federation Holocaust Memorial Education Fund, the Cultural Services of the Consulate General of France, and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Images from the project Notre Combat by Linda Ellia, Paris, France, 2007.

736 Mission Street (between 3rd and 4th) , San Francisco, CA 94103 415.655.7800 thecjm.org

Tikkun Leyl Shavuot

Wi Rabbi Lawrence Ku ner

Free and Open to the Entire Community Save the date for this very special evening of learning with a wide range of Silicon Valley community rabbis and teachers, and special guest scholar Rabbi Lawrence Kushner.

Rabbi Kushner is widely regarded as one of the most creative religious writers in America today.

Author of 18 books, most recently ”Kabbalah: A Love Story,” he has lectured and taught widely on spirituality and mysticism and has helped shape the present agenda for spiritual renewal.

May 18, 2010 at Congregation Sinai, San Jose

A Night of Learning and Celebration!

Please Join us!

Congregation Sinai 1532 Willowbrae Avenue, San Jose, CA 95124

7:50 Candle-lighting and services 8:15 Delicious Kosher Dairy Dinner* 9:30 Study Sessions begin Coffee and cheesecake all night long. *If you are planning to join us for dinner, please RSVP to the Sinai office at 408-264-8542 or office@sinai-sj.org or at our website: www.sinai-sj.org

This program is made possible through a generous grant from the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley and the Koret Foundation.

12

www.jvalley.org â&#x20AC;˘ JCN â&#x20AC;˘ March 2010

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March 2010 • JCN • www.jvalley.org

helping hands in haiti Why Jews must help in Haiti

By Rabbi Melanie Aron The needs of the poor seem overwhelming, and so in every generation Jews have looked to our tradition for guidance in apportioning Tzedakah funds. Especially in the face of tragedies such as the recent earthquake in Haiti, we are interested in understanding Jewish teachings.

Many of us identify as Jewish the idea that our first responsibility is to our families, then to those in our most local community, and then expanding in concentric circles. We have also heard the phrase, Kol Yisrael Areivim Zeh Bazeh, which is often explained to mean that Jews have a special responsibility for other Jews.

There are additional teachings that can help us make decisions on how to prioritize our Tzedakah contributions.

Perhaps the most important is the teaching, Pikuach Nefesh Docheh et HaShabbat, saving a life overrides the laws of the Sabbath. In fact, in order to save a life, one may break any of the laws of the Torah except for three: taking an innocent life, performing certain types of sexual immorality such as rape, and public apostasy in a way that leads others astray.

Charity that directly saves a life is particularly important and overrides other forms of giving.

Another important principle is that of Pidyon Shevuyim, the redemption of those held captive, which is considered a great mitzvah. To redeem someone held captive one may even sell a Torah scroll. Finally the mitzvah of rapo yerapeh, our communal responsibility to provide healing to those in need of it, may come into play.

Earlier in January, while helping a group of teenagers from around the state of California at a PANIM retreat in Sacramento think about a Jewish response to the situation in Haiti, I taught three texts that seemed to have special bearing on this situation.

The first is from the Babylonian Talmud, Tractate Sanhedrin 73a: How do we know that if a person sees another person drowning, mauled by beasts, or attacked by robbers, he is bound to save him?

From the verse, “You shall not stand idly by the blood of your neighbor.” (Leviticus 19:16).”

What do drowning, being mauled by beasts or attacked by robbers have in common? These are situations where a person’s life is in danger. Life and death situations have a special claim on our response.

A second text is from the Rambam, Rabbi Moses Maimonides, an outstanding philosopher, physician, and halachist.

He taught: And any who sees a poor person begging and hides his eyes and does not give him charity transgresses a negative commandment, as it says (Deuteronomy 15:7), “Do not harden your heart or close your hand from your poor brother.”

What does this text add to our discussion? The focus here is on the poor person whom you see, whose plight is known to you. In ancient times, that might be those geographically close. Today with television, we do literally see the needs of people all around the world and so are more responsible for responding to their plight.

The final text surprises some people, who think that Judaism teaches the obligation to help other Jews only. It is also from the Babylonian Talmud, Tractate Gittin 61a. Our Rabbi’s taught:” We sustain the non-Jewish poor with the Jewish poor, visit the non-Jewish sick with the Jewish sick, and bury the non-Jewish dead with the Jewish dead, for the sake of peace.”

We live in a world in which the burden of natural disasters falls disproportionately on the poorest of the poor in our world. They are the most likely to live in harm’s way, on flood plains, unstable hillsides, and other undesirable living places. They are least likely to be protected by building codes or other safeguards that exist in the more affluent areas of the developed world.

Finally, we must always work against the yetzer harah (evil inclination) which speaks within us saying, “the troubles of the world are so great, what am I really going to do that will make a difference.” As Rabbi Yerucham Levovitz is quoted as saying in Rabbi Abraham Twerski’s book, Smiling Each Day, “The seismograph has taught us that a tremor in any part of the world can be felt by a sufficiently sensitive instrument everywhere in the world. The same is true of a person’s deeds. One should not think that his actions will not affect others. Everything one does in some way affects everyone else in the world.”

How local Jews donating to Haiti

are

By Arielle Hendel Following the January 12 earthquake in Haiti, Israelis were among the first to respond. Israel sent a contingency of 220 doctors, nurses and recovery workers to set up a field hospital. It was the first working field hospital on the ground in Haiti. Baby “Israel” was born in the hospital along with several others. However, not all tales from this field hospital were happy. By some accounts, the field hospital saw upwards of 1,000 people per day. As the most effective operation, with working x-ray machines, oxygenation facilities, operating rooms and incubators, this facility was well equipped for the barrage. The personal toll it took on its workers was evident in their blogs. One ZAKA worker blogged about children succumbing to the mind-numbing horror of losing their entire family and about the stench of rotting flesh. Estimates of the death toll have climbed to over 200,000. This is roughly the equivalent population of the cities of Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Los Gatos, Campbell and Saratoga, combined — neighborhoods not unfamiliar with earthquakes.

The Israelis were not the only ones to respond quickly. The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) responded too. Within hours, the funding was committed to enable the Israeli team to set out. JFNA affiliates worked to raise the funds and promised to forego any administrative fees to provide for 100 percent of donations to the devastated area. This promise was made possible because the infrastructure was in place to be able to respond easily and quickly. There were mechanisms for rapid communication with service providers and those in need of assistance and also between the funders and their potential donors. This current and facile system responded in this crisis. Communities were made aware almost immediately of the ‘donation box’ set up to collect for the Earthquake-ravaged country.

The Silcion Valley Jewish community raised over $7,300. This money, along with money collected from other JFNA communities, funded the IDF field hospital. All total JFNA communities have raised over $4.8 million for Haiti relief.

cont. from p. 1 "First graders at Yavneh..." others.”

Not to miss an opportunity for learning, Yavneh teacher Jordan Emmert had her first graders prepare for the bake sale by practicing purchasing play food with play money. The exercise taught the children about the value of money, addition and subtraction as well as how to interact with the public in a sales environment.

“The math lesson that they practiced "paid off" at the sale table and [the] kids had a real life math lesson,” Yavneh Principal Joni Quintal wrote to first grade parents after the bake sale.

“It was great to witness.”

14

www.jvalley.org • JCN • March 2010

inside federation Young Adults Update

JCRC to host Child Nutrition Seder

By Amanda Orrin

Inspired by the line "Let all who are hungry come and eat" the JCRC will host a special seder that leads to a call to action: urge Congress to provide sufficient funding for the Child Nutrition Programs.

SVYAD, the young adults division of the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley, has been doing some serious wheeling and dealing (of cars that is.) Concluding February with a breakfast poker night, SVYAD has been the host to numerous social outreach events in 2010.

Event chair Evan Kaplan organized two poker fundraiser evenings, three Shabbat dinners and an outstanding bowling night at Strike in Cupertino. Over a dozen new attendees were at SVYAD events in February alone!

Chagit Shmargad, SVYAD's returning Ben Gurion Society (BGS) Chair, organized the first donorappreciation event of 2010, a BGS Bocce tournament at Campo di Bocce in Downtown Los Gatos. The food was delicious, the crowd was fantastic and, to everyone's delight, the courts were inside on this rainy day.

In an effort to both grow and inspire young leaders in the Silicon Valley community, Leadership Chair and Past President Shai Goldman followed in his grandmother's footsteps and began the first Young Leadership Series to occur in over two decades. Shai's grandmother, Marion Goldman, was the founder of the Goldman Group, a similar group that emphasized leadership skills in young members of our community. The first session of the Leadership Series took place on February 9 and will continue through July with an interim session at the Boston Young Leadership Conference in March.

For more information on the young adults division (21-45), or to volunteer, please contact Amanda Orrin at (408) 357-7503 or amanda@ jvalley.org.

Community Chaplain gave invocation at State of the City address

Congress has a unique opportunity in the upcoming reauthorization of the child nutrition programs to improve access, meal quality, and nutrition for millions of children, particularly those in low-income communities. The JCRC is urging Congress to support a robustly funded Child Nutrition Reauthorization Bill with at least $1 billion per year in additional funding, for the next five years. In addition, JCRC advocates for the removal of barriers to access and participation for underserved children and communities.

The seder will be held on April 6 at 7 p.m. at Santa Clara University and is cosponsored by the Food and Agribusiness Institute of the Leavy Business School, the Interfaith Council, Hillel, Cardozo and the Jewish Law Students Association, all of Santa Clara University. The seder is free and open to students, faculty and community members.

Members of Congress, anti-hunger advocates and faith leaders will be invited to join in leading the seder.

A special hagaddah has been designed by the national Jewish Council for Public Affairs and MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger. The goal is to highlight the parallel between the daily suffering of the Jewish people’s ancestors and the continual suffering of America’s children who live with hunger day in and day out.

Jewish tradition teaches “Do not neglect the children of the poor, for from them will go forth the law” (Nedarim 81a). This mandate reflects that ending child hunger is not only a moral imperative; it is an economic imperative. Child poverty is estimated to cost the United States over $500 billion/year, as hungry kids are more prone to have health problems, less likely to succeed in school and work, and more likely to end up in the criminal justice system.

To RSVP for the Child Nutrition Seder, or for further information, contact Diane Fisher, JCRC director, at (408)357-7504 or diane@jvalley.org.

Women’s Philanthropy Update

By Arielle Hendel Campaign is in high gear for Women’s Philanthropy and the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley. The women have been planning many campaign-related events from January through March. First and foremost the women have been calling and meeting with donors to the Federation to renew their gifts to the community.

And then there are the events. Women’s Philanthropy has held two spectacular campaign events in the past two months. First was the Aliyah Event featuring Judy Feld Carr on February 10 at Maggiano’s. We heard from Ms. Carr about her adventures in rescuing the over 3,000 Syrian Jews in the 1970’s. Ransom, bribery, spying, just to name a few of the exciting activities which led to the saving of the Syrian Jewish population. Thanks to the chairs, Alyssia Berkowitz, Linda Fox Mighdoll and Claudia Muller for producing such a lovely event. At the event, Claudia Muller and Jeanette Garrety were pinned as Pomegranate and Lion, respectively. These women will wear their pins with pride knowing that they have contributed to the well-being of our community with generosity.

Then on March 4, we will be treated to a presentation from Hilary Price, syndicated cartoonist of the comic strip "Rhymes with Orange." The audience will delight

by Ms. Price’s artistic musing during the evening. The lovely dinner will be catered by Manna, the Va’ad supervised division of Milk and Honey. Oranges will be plentiful during the event and throughout the month preceding the event. The Connections 2010 committee made sure our community was juiced up about the event; they will hand out over 800 clementines boosting everyone’s vitamin C intake and morale for the event! This committee is headed by chair, Marcia Klein.

Future events include a showing of the documentary,"Yoo Hoo Mrs. Goldberg," by Aviva Kempner at The Retro Dome and other outreach events throughout the spring and summer. Please read your enews for postings of future events.

Rabbi Leslie Alexander gave the invocation at San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed’s State of the City address on Thursday, February 18. She did this in her capacity as Community Chaplain and in her position as the San Jose Fire Department’s Jewish Chaplain.

The board meets monthly. In the last few months we held a Tu B’Shevat seder prepared by Elise Wolf and we heard from local CAMERA coordinator, Sheree Roth. Ms. Roth shared her passion for reducing the media’s bias against Israel with the board. Finally, we hosted a Shabbat dinner for the Hillel students on February 6. This dinner was served in the new Hillel house.

If you would like to join us for events or meetings, please call Arielle at (408) 357-7501 or arielle@jvalley. org.

15

March 2010 • JCN • www.jvalley.org

annual event Over 200 people at Federation Annual Event More than 200 people attended the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley’s Annual Event dinner in January, featuring nationally acclaimed author Michael Chabon. Chabon is best known for his books The Yiddish Policeman’s Union and Adventures of Kavalier & Clay, which won the Pulitzer Prize for fiction in 2001. At the Federation’s dinner, Chabon spoke about his search for and use of technology to assist in the writing process.

Prior to Chabon’s talk, longtime Silicon Valley Jewish community volunteer Phil Kipnis was awarded the Federation’s most prestigious award, the Harold Witkin Humanitarian Award. This honor is given to individuals who show an extreme dedication and commitment to the Jewish community. Kipnis certainly is deserved of this award.

Kipnis has served nearly every local (and many national) Jewish agencies in a variety of roles. The list includes (but we can’t fit them all) Yavneh Day School, the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley, Hillel of Silicon Valley, Congregation Sinai, Chai House and many more.

Said longtime friend and fellow dedicated volunteer and philanthropist Bonnie Slavitt Moore, “Phil is a team player. He is always willing to work on any committee and do anything that is asked of him.”

Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley President Steve Green (left) with wife Helaine Green and Author Michael Chabon.

Doris and Rick Davis

Tina Rosenbloom and Jay Jennings

Author Michael Chabon shakes hands with Phil Kipnis, recipient of the Harold Witkin Humanitarian Award.

16

www.jvalley.org • JCN • March 2010

summer camp LOCAL JEWISH SUMMER CAMPS

APJCC Summer Camps 14855 Oka Road, Los Gatos, CA 95032 Located at the Levy Family Campus (408) 357-7416, camp@svjcc.org, www.svjcc.org/camp Camp includes sports, fine and creative arts, science and nature, cooking, field trips, swimming lessons, and more!

Expanded multi-purpose gym, sports fields, tennis courts, activity rooms and studios, full sound auditorium, all-purpose kitchen, and aquatic center/pool.

6/14-6/18 Specialty Pre-Camp (entering K – 6th grade) 6/14-8/12 Camp Pashoshim (18-24 months) Camp Katan (2-4 years old) 6/21-8/13 Age Specific Camp Programs (entering K – 6th grade) Circus & Theater Camp (entering 3rd – 9th grade) Leaders in Training Program (entering 7th – 10th grade) Tennis Camp (entering 1st – 10th grade) Various Specialty Camps (dance, soccer, cooking, etc) (entering K – 6th grade) 8/16-8/20 Specialty Post-Camp (entering K – 6th grade)

B’nai B’rith Camp P.O. Box 110, Neotsu, OR 97364 Summer phone: (541) 994-2218 Winter phone: (503) 452-3444 www.bbcamp.org, mkoplan@bbcamp.org Overnight camp located on a lakeside campus of the scenic Oregon coast. Activities include: arts and crafts, Jewish enrichment, athletics, waterskiing, sailing, canoeing, hydrotubing, swimming in outdoor heated pool, dancing, nature, singing, high- and low-ropes challenge courses, leadership, community service, drama, creative writing, Shabbat celebrations, overnights and trips.

Maccabee Session: 6/28-7/5, Session I: 7/87/27, Session II: 7/29-8/17 Entering 2nd-11th grades in the Fall

Camp Gan Israel of Silicon Valley Location: South Peninsula Hebrew Day School 1030 Astoria Dr., Sunnyvale, CA 94087 (650) 539-KIDS (5437) office@campganisrael.info www.campganisrael.info The Southern Peninsula's Jewish day camp known for summer and Jewish fun the last 35 years!

Offering swimming, sports, trips, overnights and special activities. Workshops include art, science, woodworking, gymnastics, music and dance. With numerous camper divisions, Pioneer, CIT and Teen Volunteer there is a program for ever Jewish child aged 4-17! 2010 Camp dates 6/21-7/30. Campers can attend some or all sessions.

Camp Ramah 15600 Mulholland Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90077 (888) CAMP-RAMAH, (310) 476-8571, www.ramah.org A Conservative movement overnight camp

in Ojai, CA for children entering grades 3-10. Campers develop lifelong friendships, experience nature, learn from dynamic leaders, and expand their creativity while exploring Judaism.

6/22-7/19, 7/22-8/18 (Grades 4-10) 6/22-7/5, 7/22-8/4 (Grades 3,4) 7/6-7/19, 8/5-8/18 (Grades 4,5)

Camp Ramah Outdoor Adventure

Habonim Dror Camp Gilboa Office: 8339 West 3rd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90048 (323) 653-6772, info@campgilboa.org, http://www.campgilboa.org/ Sessions in 2010: 7/4-7/18, 7/20-8/8, 7/4-8/8 Jewish overnight summer camp in San Bernardino Mountains, for boys and girls entering grades 4-10, with year-round youth activities in Silicon Valley. Camp Gilboa creates a close-knit community based on the ideals of responsibility, respect, equality and friendship. Full program of fun activities, in a creative, open and caring environment. One of the seven camps in Habonim Dror North America.

www.ramahoutdoors.org (303) 261-8214 New camp combines 60+ years of Ramah camping experience with outdoor adventure.

Experience an array of spectacular activities from hiking to horseback riding to climbing, all in the heart of the Special Opportunity – JWest Campership Rocky Mountains.

Program – Get up to $2500 for Camp Session I: 6/16-7/13 www.onehappycamper.org (grades 8,9,10).

The JWest Campership Program provides up to Session II: 7/18$2500 over two or three years for first-time campers 8/1 (grades (grades entering 6-8th grades to attend one of 23 nonprofit 6-10), Session 3, Jewish overnight camps for the first time. Campers 8/3-8/10 (grades 6 must reside in one of thirteen designated Western and 7). states. Funded by the generous support of the Jim Joseph Foundation, JWest is an initiative through the Camp Tawonga Foundation for Jewish Camp.

(415) 543-2267 jnsv.tawonga.org, info@tawonga.org Camp Tawonga, accredited by the American Camp Association, has a staff/camper ratio of 1:1.5 and is located outside Yosemite National Park on 160 acres in national forest.

It offers camp sessions, teen leadership, service learning to Costa Rica, and adventure travel programs throughout California, the Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains, and New England; programs for 2nd through 12th graders from June 20-August 19; and Weekend Programs for individuals, couples and families in the Spring and Fall. Financial options and assistance are available.

Camp Young Judaea Midwest in Waupaca, Wisconsin www.cyjmid.org or (847) 675-6790.

Teaches a love for Israel and instill leadership skills at the appropriate levels through fun and challenging independent and counselor-led activities. Ages 8 through high school. (Israel programs, too!) Scholarships are available through Young Judaea, National Hadassah and Central Pacific Coast Region Hadassah. Visit www.youngjudaea.org to learn more about Young Judaea. Local contact: Jane Jacobson, 408-872-1845

Summer Camp at Congregation Shir Hadash 20 Cherry Blossom Lane, Los Gatos 95032 Contact: Robin Adelman (408) 358-1751 ext. 115 Be a Junior Explorer! Explore nature, water, art, music, and sports. Ages- 2 to 5 years June 21 to August 13, 2010, Full day, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Part day, 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Attend 2, 3 or 5 days per week in two 4 week sessions.

Summer Torah Club A l m a d e n Valley Torah Center, 1422 H e l m o n d Lane, South S. Jose Location for camp to be announced Rivkah Vogel

(408) 445-1770 20th year celebration. Camp begins August 2nd. Girls ages 5-12, and boys ages 5-8.

Exciting activities, trips, arts and crafts, puppets, comedy and drama. Trip to Disneyland or Marine World for older children.

URJ Camp Institutes for Living Judaism

Camp Newman & Camp Swig Winter (415) 392-7080, www.campnewmanswig.org Activities include hockey, soccer, basketball, gymnastics, roller-blading, overnights, music, Shabbat programs, and more.

6/22-8/20(7,9,12,13,22,27 day sessions) Grades 2-11

JEWISH SPECIAL PROGRAMS

Chai Lifeline West Coast (877) 374-6331, www.chailifeline.org Designed to meet the medical and social needs of children with cancer (Camp Simcha) or serious chronic or genetic conditions (Camp Simcha Special). With a camper/counselor ratio of 1:1, campers are showered with love and support 24/7. Camps are located in New York state and are free of charge to families.

The Friendship Circle - (Special Needs/ Teen Volunteers) A Jewish organization pairing high school students with children & teens that have special needs.

(650) 858-6990, www.bayareafc.org, info@bayareafc.org Two weeks of fun and educational trips around the Bay Area. Caring volunteers accompany each child at all times. Therapist on hand while the children take part in the two action-packed weeks. Financial assistance is available upon request.

FOR ADULTS & 16+ Ulpan San Francisco Campus of University of SF (415) 422-6601, www.usfca.edu/judaicstudies Three-week intensive Hebrew language program. Offering multiple levels of Hebrew instruction in small class settings. Emphasis is placed on conversation, accompanied by reading, writing, and grammar. The learning experience is enhanced by various teaching aids such as video, film clips, songs, drama, and audio material. July 12 - July 30, 2010, Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

TECH CAMPS internalDrive.com

1-888-709-TECH (8324)

North America’s #1 Tech Camp for ages 7-18 held at:

Stanford University Santa Clara UC Berkeley St. Mary’s College of CA Sacramento State Harvard Princeton UCLA & more!

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REGISTER TODAY! Save with Code CAU9

Filmmaking Programming Robotics & more!

iD Gaming, Programming and Visual Arts Academies for teens at Stanford

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March 2010 • JCN • www.jvalley.org

summer camp

Next generations return to APJCC summer camp

The APJCC day camp first opened in the summer of 1969. Many children who attended in the early years now send their own children or grandchildren.

Janet and Steve Dombro of San Jose met as teenagers at the JCC’s summer camp. “We were CITs (counselors-in-training) together as teenagers,” Janet Dombro explained. “A few years later we were both working at the JCC as counselors, and we started dating.”

For the Dombros, camp led to marriage and a family of their own. They married and had five children who have attended the JCC summer camp. The Dombros love the camp not only because of its activities and fun, but because it has become a family tradition.

Mishy Balaban worked as a Camp Shalom counselor and later sent her own children. “I was a counselor in my twenties when Camp Shalom (the original name of the camp, which is now called APJCC Summer Camp) was at Blackberry Farm,” Balaban said. “It was a wonderful Jewish summer experience filled with all the active outdoor activities that kids would engage in during the summer, with the added infusion of Jewish songs, dances and pride. My daughters went to the camp located at the JCC campus when growing up, and as life sometimes comes full circle, my youngest daughter Briana became a camp counselor last summer. She fell in love working with young kids and had a wonderful time hanging out with her Jewish peers during camp and after work.”

Fagie Rosen’s children and grandchildren attended camp at the JCC, and she herself worked as the camp secretary for nearly twenty years. She has watched many children in the community grow up at camp. “It’s wonderful now to see the children and the grandchildren and even the great-grandchildren of the camp families from the early days,” said Rosen, who still works at the JCC part time.

Mishy Balaban with daughter Brianna in earlier days

Jyl Jurman, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley, was a counselor at the JCC summer camp when it first opened, and later sent her children there. “I had so much pride in hearing my children sing the Camp Shalom song that I had helped write,” she said. In 1982, Jurman joined the JCC Board of Trustees to help with children’s programming, and she became the board’s chairperson for the summer camp. She was the layperson who started the JCC’s popular Performing Arts Camp (PAC), which is now known as Camp Habima Hess.

Jurman’s children and grandchildren went on to further involvement in the summer camp as well. “My kids went to camp, and then Jayme and Jodi worked at camp as CITs and counselors. Jamie ended up being the Judaica director, and Jodie worked as a lifeguard. My grandchildren (who live in Arizona) were here during the summer of 2008, and they both went to camp at the Addison-Penzak JCC. I love looking out of my window and watching the kids outside.”

To learn more or to sign up for camp, go to www.svjcc.org or contact the JCC’s camp office at (408) 357-7416 or camp@svjcc.org.

Girls attending Summer Torah Club SECULAR CAMP PROGRAMS

Harker Summer Programs 4300 Bucknall Rd., San Jose ( Lower School K-Gr.5) 3800 Blackford Ave., San Jose (Middle School Gr.6-8) 500 Saratoga Ave., San Jose ( Upper School Gr.9-12) (408) 553-0537, summer.harker.org, campinfo@harker.org Grades K-12; 6/21-8/13 Harker’s Summer Programs are designed so campers are challenged, make friendships and have fun. Their K-12 programs are held on Harker’s three centrally located San Jose campuses where the quality facilities, safe

and secure environment, caring and qualified staff, and wide range of academic programs and sports and recreation offer something for everyone. Choose from 4- and 2-week options that include course choices such as kitchen chemistry, filmmaking, and comic book creation.

Also offered are KinderCamp, tennis camps and a swim program with a variety of lessons and camps for children of all skill levels. Visit the website for details on all of Harker’s 2010 summer offerings.

iD Tech Camps: Summer Tech Fun! 60 Prestigious Universities including Stanford & Santa Clara 1-888-709-TECH (8324), www.internalDrive.com At iD Tech Camps and the iD Teen Academies, over 100,000 students worldwide have learned to create video games, websites with Flash®, digital movies, iPhone® and Facebook® apps, robots, 3D models and animations with products experts use in their professions.

Ages 7-17 enroll in these weeklong, day and residential summer programs, located at 60 universities in the U.S. and Canada. This includes Stanford, Santa Clara University, UC Berkeley, UCLA, Princeton, Harvard and more.

Additionally, iD students can participate in year-round learning with iD 365 free online workshops. At Stanford, there are also Teen programs for ages 13-18: iD Gaming Academy, iD Visual Arts Academy and iD Programming Academy. Save w/code CAU9.

to create a truly unique experience. Each program shares the same core elements – active touring, community service, crosscultural interactions, and meaningful Jewish experiences. This is Passport’s 55th summer of teen travel experiences.

ISRAEL AND WORLD TRAVEL PROGRAMS

SPECIAL PROGRAMS

Habonim Dror North America

(408) 482-9516 www.strollerpower.com Kids and Moms get and stay in shape or just have fun now and over the summer Beginner and evening classes available Monday through Saturday in San Jose, Los Gatos and Campbell.

www.habonimdror.org 5-week Summer in Israel: MBI (Machaneh Bonim b'Israel) For post 10th graders. Travel the country with teens from North America and learn about the Israeli people, history, culture and society.

9-month Workshop in Israel For post high-school students - gap year program in Israel. Small-group living and volunteering. Seminars, hiking & educational trips, including to historical sites in Poland.

Community volunteer placements together with Israeli youth.

Stroller Power

FUZE Fit For A Kid! 15405 Los Gatos Blvd.,, Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 358-7529, www.fuzefit.com Interactive fitness academy for kids and teen 5-16 to improve strength, stamina, and confidence. Sessions available during the school year, during school breaks and all summer long.

BBYO Passport Programs 1-800-698-1002, http://passport.bbyo.org BBYO, the world’s largest pluralistic Jewish youth group, offers a variety of teen travel experiences in Israel, Europe, and North America, with the ability to combine trips

300 San Jose Bowling always makes for happy campers.

Schedule an outing at 300sanjose.com. For details on summer packages. Call Suzanne Frazier at (408) 578-2940.

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www.jvalley.org • JCN • March 2010

summer camp

Couple meets at camp and carries on the tradition

>

> SUMMER SESSIONS > TEEN TRAVEL & LEADERSHIP WEEKEND PROGRAMS FOR INDIVIDUALS, COUPLES AND FAMILIES

When Doug Blauer attended B’nai B’rith Camp in Orgeon in 1976, at the tender age of 8, he met many new kids each summer, including Amy. It was unlikely that these two later would fall in love at camp, marry, have children and send their own children back to B. B. Camp. But that's how it happened. Today Amy and Doug's children, Sam Blauer, 7, and Lucy Blauer, 4, will attend B. B. Camp's Family Camp for the third year in a row.

Amy and Doug met at camp in summer 1985; three years later, Doug made a very chivalrous move, impressing the girl who decades later would become his wife. In 1988, both were on staff; Doug saved Amy a seat during a training session.

“If it wasn't for camp, we may never have met,” Amy says, adding, “Having the chance to spend all those summers together at camp helped us grow up together and as individuals.”

Amy and Doug at camp in the late 1980's

Doug says, “I was hooked from the beginning. I had made friends and was so comfortable in the Camp setting. Each year just got better and better. Camp was a second home.” And still is.

Six years ago, Amy cofounded ReJewvenation, an increasingly popular all-women's weekend at Camp. The 2009 ReJewvention attracted 125 women, the most campers since its founding in 2005.

SPACES ARE STILL AVAILABLE!

REGISTER TODAY!

THE COMMUNITY WHERE

Nestled on the doorstep of Yosemite National Park, on the middle fork of the Tuolumne River, Camp Tawonga is the warm, welcoming community where you belong. Tawonga is American Camp Association accredited with a staff to camper ratio of 1 : 1.5.

Y OU

B E L ON G

At Camp Tawonga, children: >

>

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are appreciated for their uniqueness, growing into confident, resilient young men and women live in a community, developing lifelong friendships in our group centered programs explore Yosemite, nature, Judaism, art, sports & much more spend 1, 2, or 3 weeks being a kid, away from the stresses of school, the media, and discussions of today’s economic climate Sign up today for the summer of a lifetime!

C O N T A C T U S T O D AY T O L E A R N M O R E A B O U T T A W O N G A P R O G R A M S , F I N A N C I A L O P T I O N S & C O M M U N I T Y P R E S E N TAT I O N S I N Y O U R A R E A .

jnsv.tawonga.org | 415.543.2267 | info @ tawonga.org

Doug, too, is active in a program for the other half of the population. A member of the B'nai B'rith Men's Camp Association, Doug also participates in a guys-only weeklong getaway at Camp.

“It gives me a chance to stay in touch with Camp friends and give back to B. B. Camp,” Doug explains of Men's Camp.

Adds Amy, who this year joined B. B. Camp's Board of Directors: “One of the best things about Sam, Doug, Amy and Lucy Blauer Camp was losing track of time and happenings outside of the intimate Camp community. It just brought us all closer.”

Unique Jewish Overnight Camp and Youth Movement for children entering grades 4 - 10 Beautiful campsite near Big Bear, Southern California – campers fly down together and are taken to camp and back

Experience the joy and group spirit!

Creativity, Leadership, Friendships for Life!

Office: 323-653-6772 info@campgilboa.org www.campgilboa.org

Sign up NOW for Summer!

Local youth activities throughout the year in South Bay area.

Summer Torah Club celebrates 20 years This August 2010 will be the twentieth anniversary of the Almaden Valley Torah Center's summer day camp, Summer Torah Club. In addition to general camp activities, there will be a focus on puppets, comedy and drama, and the older campers will enjoy a trip to Disneyland or Marine World. For more information or to register your child, please contact Rivkah Vogel at (408) 445-1770.

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March 2010 • JCN • www.jvalley.org

A World of Learning and Play SUMMER CAMP K-8 • June 21 – Aug. 13, 2010 MORNING ACADEMICS Math, language arts and science focus AFTERNOON RECREATION Swimming, climbing, archery, sports, crafts, games and more, all included on-site. Field trips and special events, too!

4-week session or 2-week program s Full day or partial day options Before- and after-care included s Nutritious lunches offered daily Qualified, caring staff s Safe, secure environment

Registration now open - sign up early for best selection!

VISIT OUR WEB SITE for details about all of our summer offerings, including high school courses, swimming, tennis, soccer and more!

summer.harker.org 408.553.0537

campinfo@harker.org

Bucknall Campus: 4300 Bucknall Ave., San Jose, CA 95130

O U T S TA N D I N G S U M M E R P R O G R A M S F O R OV E R 5 0 Y E A R S

Schoo and c l a rolle mp d into one t err summ ific er!

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www.jvalley.org â&#x20AC;˘ JCN â&#x20AC;˘ March 2010

summer camp

The Friendship Circle to host fundraising walk and festival on May 23 The Palo Alto-based Friendship Circle will host a community-wide Friendship Walk on Sunday, May 23 at noon, to raise awareness and funds for children with special needs. The walk will start at Jewish Family & Children Services in Palo Alto and end at Addison Elementary School, with festivities including a kosher barbeque, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crafts and a jump house, live music, entertainment and more.

Based on the philosophy that every child is worthy of nurturing and connection, through its yearround programs the Friendship Circle offers special-needs children modified versions of the same opportunities other children can enjoy. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A child with special needs can feel the pain of loneliness and the euphoria of friendship like any other child,â&#x20AC;? says Friendship Circle founder Ezzy Schusterman.

The Friendship Circle pairs local teenagers with special-needs children for home visits and group activities during the school year, and runs summer and winter camps during out-of-school seasons.

The volunteer teens have an opportunity to grow and get much satisfaction from building bonds with the children they mentor, and from giving to families of special-needs children. According to Schusterman, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The teen volunteers are able to reach the children beyond what many forms of therapy can provide. Moreover, the program has a profound effect on the teenagers themselves--instilling within them the values of giving and gratitude.â&#x20AC;?

Friendship Circle programs include weekly home visits through Friends at Home, Summer Camp, Sunday Circle, Teen Scene, Momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Night Out, Holiday Programs, Kids in Action, as well as trainings, learning opportunities and other volunteer activities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We create a community where all members are welcome and valued, and where no child is deprived of friendship, play dates or opportunities for inclusion,â&#x20AC;? says Schusterman.

Individuals, companies and organizations from throughout the Bay Area are invited to participate in supporting the Friendship Circle's work while they enjoy some outdoor exercise and a fun-filled day.

For more information about the Friendship Walk, please visit www.WalkWithFC.com or call (650) 858-6990.

e r Camp m m u S C C J P A

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YOUR

camps for toddlers to 10th graders Sports, swimming, art, cooking, science, nature, and more!

Plus specialty camps in circus, theater, tennis, dance, soccer and more!

LWPG VJ CWIWUV VJ 408.357.7416 For details, see www.svjcc.org/camp 14855 Oka Road, Los Gatos, CA 95032

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March 2010 • JCN • www.jvalley.org

join us in celebrating O

R

SEDE

R

T A

Y

U

Passover

FO

LE

R

B

U

U

LE

FO

Y

A

B

R

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Baron Herzog Kosher Wine 750 ml., Select Varieties

999

10% OFF WITH 4 OR MORE 8.99

Manischewitz Unsalted Matzos

5

99

Granny’s Marshmallows 10 oz., White or Toasted

Manischewitz Tam Tam Crackers 8 oz.

Kedem Grape Juice

2

5 lb.

FOR

FOR

4

Manischewitz Gefilte Fish Or Whitefish & Pike 24 oz., Select Varieties

99

4

7

2$ FOR

Manischewitz Potato Mixes

2$

3 ct., Select Varieties

Manischewitz Egg Noodles

12 oz., Select Varieties +crv

22 oz., Select Varieties

750 ml., Select Varieties

3$

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Dr. Brown’s Soda

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Telma Soup Cubes

Manischewitz Or Mogen David Kosher Wine

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Manischewitz Macaroons

399

8 to 10 oz., Select Varieties

12 oz., Fine or Medium

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2$

FOR

95

3

6 oz., Potato Pancake, Sweet Potato Pancake or Potato Latke

2

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Rokeach Memorial Candles, 1 ct.

10

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Prices effective February 4, 2010 through April 6, 2010

AVAILABILITY: Each of these items is readily available for sale at or below the advertised price at most Lucky Supermarkets. Some items may not be available at all stores. Savings may vary. While supplies last. PRICE ACCURACY GUARANTEE: If the price charged is higher than the shelf or advertised price, you will receive the item FREE. Limit one of each item. You will be charged the lowest advertised price for all additional identical items. Excludes liquor, tobacco and dairy products. LIMITS: In fairness to all of our customers, we reserve the right to limit individual purchases of any item for sale except where otherwise noted. Sale items not available to commercial dealers or wholesalers. Images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not represent actual products at store.

22

www.jvalley.org â&#x20AC;˘ JCN â&#x20AC;˘ March 2010

Joyous Passover Wishes

Philip Hammer STATE BAR CERTIFIED FAMILY LAW SPECIALIST

David Hofmann REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS & FINANCE

Steven Siner BUSINESS, TAX & ESTATE PLANNING MANAGING SHAREHOLDER

Eliana Weissman FAMILY LAW

David Howard COMPLEX TAXATION & CORPORATE STRATEGY

Hoge Fenton Hoge Fenton Jones & Appel Attorneys at Law | Founded in 1952 SILICON VALLEY OFFICE

60 SOUTH MARKET STREET, SUITE 1400 SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA 95113-2396 MAIN: 408.287.9501 FAX: 408.287.2583

Project N.O.A.H. Passover Food Drive Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley is holding its annual Passover Food Drive March 1-25. Help is needed to brighten Passover for over 200 grateful households in the Silicon Valley. Contributions of the following wrapped Kosher for Passover 2010 food items are needed: gefilte fish, matzo ball soup in a jar, horseradish, matzo, jam, macaroons, candies, cookies, honey, dried fruit (pre-bagged or pre-boxed), latke mix, matzo meal, potato starch, and cake meal.

Drop off locations are the main lobby of the LFC and Yavneh Day School/ Preschool lobby, Congregation Shir Hadash, Congregation Sinai, Temple Emanu-El, Congregation Beth-David, and South Penninsula Hebrew Day School.

Call Michele at (408) 357-7453 with any questions.

Sunday, March 21, 2010 9:30-12:30

A Jo ourney to Freedom Kadesh K

Urhatz

Adult Learning Families & Kids K-13 Tot Program @ 10:45

with Yahatz Hands-on activities Magid Rohtza za Learning Centers Motzi r Art 8EQW Maror Matzah Music YUKDÂ&#x2026;

Korekh Shulkhan Orekh Drama YQUV Tzafun T Barekh Food! V8&i) Karpas

Hallel

(playroom available from 9:30)

Cost: Free!

Nirtzah

â&#x20AC;Ť×§×&#x201D;×&#x2122;×&#x153;ת ×&#x2018;×&#x2122;ת ×&#x201C;×&#x2022;×&#x201C;â&#x20AC;Ź

Congregation Beth David

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a place for me at CBDâ&#x20AC;?

19700 Prospect Road, Saratoga, CA 95070

408.257.3333

www.beth-david.org

Wishing you the many joys of this Passover season Jyl & David Jurman

March 2010 • JCN • www.jvalley.org

23

passover section

Passover wines: What to drink for the four cups of Pesach?

By Ernie Weir, Hagafen Cellars Passover can be tough when it comes to wine: families come together, lots of foods get eaten, and it can be difficult to know what wines to choose to ensure enjoyment of the Seder as a meal itself. I’ve done some thinking on this issue, and here’s what I’ve come up by way of general suggestions: The first cup links to the phrase, “I will take you out of Egypt”—I will, literally, get you moving. In the language of wine, we need something that will dance on the tongue. What comes to mind are sparkling wines, rosés, or high-acid whites.

All of these will waken your taste buds for the rest of the Seder, making your senses better able to appreciate what follows.

The second cup works in conjunction with “I will deliver you from Egyptian slavery.” I read this as needing a wine of some extravagance, either in terms of money or by going far from the beaten path. Consider options like a wine at a price roughly twice that of the others you’ve chosen so that it stands out, or select a varietal you’ve never had before but which has a good rating or competition results. In other words, set yourself free a little bit and enjoy what happens as a result!

The third cup comes as the tribes of Israel are redeemed via “a demonstration of My power.” Again, in the language of wine, what’s needed is a big, forceful red, one that will showcase the strength of its fruit. Think Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, or Zinfandel for their hugeness on the nose and tongue.

Wishing you a home filled with joyous celebration

Chag Sameach!

Mary Cohen Realtor Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) Quality Service Certified (QSC)

(408) 981-2955 - Cell (408) 357-8666 - Direct Line mcohen@apr.com marycohen@aol.com www.marycohenhomes.com

The final, fourth cup comes as the “nation of Israel” is formed. I see this as requiring a wine to allow for some introspection and consideration, perhaps something sweet to help us to be reminded of the hope of peace for the future.

Dessert, late harvest, and port wines would be the way to go. They nicely draw the meal itself to a close while also dovetailing with the themes of the Seder’s conclusion.

Ultimately, looking back at these broad proposals, we can see that the four cups allow us to create a full four-course wine-and-food pairing with the arc so necessary for true Seder (or other staged meal) success: a wine to sharpen our attention, a wine to celebrate our freedom, a wine to show us the power of belief, and a wine to help us see the big picture. L’Chaim!

Let Us Help you Celebrate

Passover Nurit Sabadosh 14103 D Winchester Blvd.

Los Gatos, CA 95032 Phone 408-370-1818 Fax 408-370-1896 www.alefbetjudaica.com

We offer a great selection of Haggadot, Seder Plates, Matzah Covers, Music, Videos, Books and much more.

Best Wishes for a Happy and Healthy

David Hoffman Attorney at Law

(408)920-9687

Chag Sameach Leonard W. Williams, C.P.A. 455 South Mathilda Avenue Sunnyvale, CA 94086-7605 (408) 736-1566

24

www.jvalley.org • JCN • March 2010

passover section

Moses’ two moms — heroines in their own right

By Rabbi Joel Fleekop (Congregation Shir Hadash) If we were to list the human heroes of the Passover story, there is little argument that Moses’ name would be mentioned most likely first. But all too often, whether children or adults create the list, Moses’ name appears alone.

And when the list is extended, it is usually not by much–just enough to include Moses’ brother Aaron and perhaps his sister Miriam.

But like all great stories and events in history, the collection of human heroes in the Exodus narrative is much longer. The opening chapters of the Book of Exodus reveal a number of heroes, many of them women.

Two of these women are responsible for raising Moses, his birth mother Yocheved and his adoptive mother Bitya.

The Book of Exodus tells us very little about these two women, in fact Bitya is identified in Exodus only as “Bat Pharaoh - Pharaoh’s daughter,” with the name Bitya appearing first in Chronicles. But while the Biblical text offers only a glimpse of these two women, the rabbis, through their commentaries and midrash, paint a vivid picture of these important heroines of the Exodus story.

Yocheved’s life, according to the rabbis, bears witness to the Israelites’ experience in Egypt, for, as Genesis Rabbah 94:9 teaches, she was born by the gates of Egypt, as her father Levi and the Israelite masses entered to join Joseph and escape famine. With her birth dated to the Israelites’ arrival in Egypt, the rabbis calculate that she was 130 years of age when Moses was born. Despite her age, she is described having a youthful appearance and being very beautiful (B. Talmud: Baba Bathra 120a). In addition to her physical beauty, Yocheved was a woman of spiritual beauty as well, whose reverence for G-d and righteousness were rewarded with the honor of not only giving birth to Moses (Exodus Rabbah 1:16) but also with a painless delivery (B. Talmud: Sotah 12a).

mothers as well. According to midrash, the midwife Shifrah, who ignored Pharaoh’s instructions to kill all male Israelites, was in fact Yocheved. The rabbis offer a number of explanations for the nickname, most revolving around Yocheved’s talents of midwifery (Ecclesiastes Rabbah 7:3) Like Yocheved, Moses’ adoptive mother Bitya is also described as a woman of great courage and exceptional spiritual character.

According to the rabbis, on the day she discovered Moses, she had gone to the river to cleanse herself of the impurity caused by the idols that filled her father’s home. Not only did she recognize the error of idolatry, but also the injustice of her father Pharaoh’s decree and so did not hesitate to rescue the Israelite infant, despite the protestations of her maidens (B. Talmud: Sotah 12b).

Bitya cared for the boy, going to great efforts to find an appropriate wet nurse (Exodus Rabbah 1:25) and showed him the affection a child deserves, doting over him and showering him with hugs and kisses. She and Moses had a strong connection, so much so that of all the names given to Moses, G-d refers to him exclusively by the name given to him by Bitya (Exodus Rabbah 1:26).

Bitya’s own name is also telling. Known in Exodus as Bat Pharaoh–Pharaoh’s daughter–it is her actions and spiritual quest that earn her the name Bitya–the daughter of G-d (Leviticus Rabbah 1:3).

When we list the human heroes of the Passover story, Moses’ name will almost always appear at the top of the list. But it is important for us to remember the other heroes as well, heroines like Yocheved and Bitya. These remarkable and courageous women serve as an example for us and remind us that ending injustice, whether in ancient times or today, requires the efforts of many heroes working to do G-d’s will.

Beyond her inner and outer beauty, the rabbis also describe Yocheved as a woman of great courage. Not only did she disobey Pharaoh’s order by hiding Moses for three months (ibid) but also risked her life to save the children born to other

Best Wishes for a Happy and Healthy Passover Barry & Rosemarie Mirkin

Best Wishes for a Healthy and Happy Passover.

Steve and Helaine Green

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March 2010 • JCN • www.jvalley.org

Soul Mates Unlimited ® Modern Jewish Matchmaking

J

PEARLS TELL HER SHE’S LOVED.

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

udith Gottesman is a rare find — a traditional matchmaker in today’s modern world. After successfully setting up friends and acquaintances for years, the Berkeley resident has made it a career with her business venture, Soul Mates Unlimited,® which opened in January 2009 and serves clients state-wide.

“I’m trying to put out a call to the modern Jewish community to go back to the value that it’s a priority to help people find their match,” Gottesman said. “I’ve helped people find their soul mates, so I absolutely believe they exist.”

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www.jvalley.org • JCN • March 2010

silicon valley simchas

By Andrea Cohen Greyber BIRTHS Dr. Nathaniel & Sherry Cohen of Congregation Shir Hadash are pleased to announce the birth of Jonah Morris Cohen who was born on December 4. He joins his older sister, Shaina Cohen, 21 months, and Jonah Morris Cohen older brother, Ari, 4.

Aunt Margaret Cohen, a professor of literature at Stanford, and Uncle Alex Cohen & Aunt Kim Allen of Washington, DC were excited to hear about the birth of Jonah. Doting grandparents include Lee Henderson of Roseville, CA and Jonathan Sievers of Encino, CA and Dr. Bernard & Phoebe Cohen of New York City.

Linda & Mark Cristol of San Jose are thrilled to announce the arrival of their first grandson, Isaac Dale Cristol.

He was born on December 10 and weighed in at seven pounds and seven ounces and Isaac Dale Cristol was 20 inches long.

His parents are Michael & Natalya Cristol. Isaac’s other grandparents are Mila & Alex Sedletsky of Fremont.

Lisa & Taylor Henricks of Menlo Park and Stella Sedletskaya, Natalya’s sister, are proud of their new roles as aunts and uncles. Isaac was named at the Evening Service at Temple Beth Torah on Friday evening, January 15. Other relatives in attendance

included Great-uncle Steven & Aunt Laurie Kend of Palos Verdes Estates, Great-aunt Diana Cristol of Danville, Aunt Larissa & Uncle Lev Krashovsky of Newark and Cousin Jenny Krashovsky also of Newark, Cousins Yana & Slava Boulatov of Fremont, Great-uncle Bruce & Greataunt Ethel Cristol of San Gabriel and Great-grandparents Yakov Bretel & Yeva Kleynerman of Fremont.

Vanina Sandel-Mutchnik & Sharon Mutchnik of San Jose welcomed their son Ethan Mutchnik on December 24. He weighed eight pounds and five ounces and was twenty inches long.

His Brit Milah was held at Congregation Beth David on January 1. Ethan’s grandparents are Elisa Sandel Ethan Mutchnik & Isidoro Sandel of Buenos Aires, Argentina and Amalia & Roberto Mutchnik of Ramat Gan, Israel. His Aunt Denise Sandel lives in Argentina and Aunt Aline Mutchnik lives in Ramat Gan, Israel.

CALLED TO THE TORAH Micah Brad Ammerman and Samuel Jacob Ammerman were called to the Torah on January 9 at Congregation Beth David. The B’nai Mitzvot are the sons of Dave & Andrea Ammerman and the younger brothers of Aaron Ammerman, a student at Westmont High School in Campbell. Micah and Samuel are in the seventh grade at Yavneh Jewish Day School.

Their beloved grandfather Isadore Kertzman of Campbell was on hand

for the ceremony, but unfortunately their grandmother, Rita Kertzman was too ill to attend. The twins had had a family Bar Mitzvah at their home on their Hebrew birthday, December 7 in order that their grandmother could attend; t o u c h i n g photographs from this event were on display Samuel Jacob Ammerman at the Kiddush luncheon following the ceremony.

Relatives on hand for the Bar Mitzvah were Aunt Marla Kertzman of La Grange, Uncle David Kertzman of Campbell, Uncle Mark Ammerman of Hayward, Aunt Mary Burum of Campbell, Cousin Meghan Balk of Davis, Aunt Juanita Balk of VA and Uncle Micah Brad Ammerman Bob & Aunt Maria Ammerman of Sacramento. In addition to reading most of the Torah portions on their own, with an assist from their older brother and Iris Bendahan, the twins chanted the Musaf service. Samuel is an excellent soccer player and has played for a long time. For his mitzvah project, he is contributing some of his Bar Mitzvah monies to Charity Water, an organization that attempts to provide safe, clean drinking water for people in developing nations. Micah enjoys archery and using his Dad’s power tools to make modifications on nerfs. He will be donating a portion of his Bar Mitzvah monies to support the USO. Leron Perez, son of Gil & Tamar Perez of Los Gatos, was called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on January 16 at Congregation Sinai. Leron is in the seventh grade at Yavneh Jewish Day School. His younger sister Marin, 9, and younger brother Kai, 5, also attend Yavneh. Leron’s grandparents enjoyed celebrating on this special

day. Harry & Eva Brand came in from Kiryat Ono, Israel and Yaacov & Rachel Perez were in from Ramat Chen in Israel. Cousins Larry & Lansa Parker came from Toronto, Canada and Aunt Niki & Uncle Leron Perez Neal Netanel came up from Los Angles and Uncle Elias & Aunt Rachel Perez flew in from San Diego. In addition to activities at school, Leron enjoys soccer, piano and drums.

For his mitzvah project, he will be volunteering at an animal shelter in the area.

Ryan Hittleman, son of Michelle & Kenneth Hittleman of San Jose, was called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on January 23 at Congregation Beth David. Ryan is a seventh grade student at Dartmouth Middle School. He is the older brother of Hannah, 9, who attends Ryan Hittleman Oster Elementary School in San Jose. Grandparents on hand for this special occasion included Betty Becker of San Jose, Sheila Belasco of San Diego and her husband, Jim Belasco. Aunt Marla Becker & Uncle Daniel Lipton

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March 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ JCN â&#x20AC;˘ www.jvalley.org

silicon valley simchas and their children, Cousin Lucas and Ellis Becker-Lipton came from Belmont and Aunt Deborah & Uncle Shalom Flank flew in from Washington, DC. Regretfully, Greatgrandmother Jeanette Becker of Palm Springs and Grandfather Jay Becker of Los Angeles were unable to attend. Ryan is an active member of Boy Scout Troop #340. He plays percussion in the school band and has a role in the school production of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Annie.â&#x20AC;? For his mitzvah project, Ryan volunteered at the Campbell Library where he worked in the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s section doing whatever the librarian needed him to do. He worked once a week last summer except for the time when he was at Camp Ramah where he has been a camper for the last three years.

Ryan collected 349 gently used books and donated them to the Migrant Media Book Flood Project in Watsonville.

On January 23, Ari Joshua Lichy, son of Elizabeth & Joe Lichy, was called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah at Congregation Sinai. Ari is the older brother of Samuel Lichy, 11, and Carl Lichy, 2 ½. Carl is enrolled at Sinai Nursery School and the older Ari Joshua Lichy brothers are students at Willow Glen Middle School. Ariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grandparents, Florence & Irving Lichy came in from Merrick, NY. His other grandparents, Andrea & Howard Greyber live in San Jose. Uncle Jack & Aunt Beth Lichy and Cousin Jesse Lichy traveled from Silver Spring, MD. Uncle Rob & Aunt Natasha Greyber flew in from Seattle, WA, and Uncle Daniel & Aunt Jennifer and Cousins Alon, Benjamin and Ranon Greyber drove up from Los Angeles. Aunt Rhoda

& Uncle Matt Bernstein flew in from Rochester, MN along with Cousin Lee Bernstein. Other cousins and friends came from the East coast, Santa Cruz, Seattle and Davis to share this simcha. Ari is an active fencer and will be participating in the Junior Olympic competition in Memphis, TN where he will compete with other fencers ranging in age from 13-17. For his mitzvah project Ari chose to help Hatikvah House, a home for developmentally disabled Jewish adults. Two of the residents were able to attend his Bar Mitzvah.

Ari helped them make Chanukah baskets for the JFS Chanukah celebration in December. His focus is to help them reduce their energy costs through a variety of approaches and to acquire a solar system in the future.

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

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4:00 pm Board Chambers, County Government Center 70 W. Hedding Street, San Jose Free parking available in the County Employee Parking Lot Memorial to victims of the Krakow ghetto in the form of oversized bronze chairs on the Plac Bohaterow Getta.

The Supervisors of the County of Santa Clara will honor Adam Cintz on the occasion of his 100th birthday. Special Guest Shana Penn, Polish Studies scholar and representative of the Polish Consulate of Northern California, will speak about the Jewish Heritage Initiative which celebrates Jewish culture in Poland today.

For more information, call 408-299-5151.

28

www.jvalley.org • JCN • March 2010

ask the rabbi Would you please explain why we conclude the Seder with the humorous song Chad Gadyah? It has always felt out of place at the end of a powerful evening spent discussing the Exodus, slavery, freedom and our role as Jews in the world.

By Rabbi Joshua Fenton, APJCC I too have participated in Passover Sedarim that were so moving that concluding with a seemingly lighthearted song like Chad Gadyah felt a bit inappropriate. After all, the Passover Seder is a time for us to not only tell the story of what happened then, in Egypt, but to discuss how we, too, play a role in the narrative of the Israelite people. The Hagaddah affirms that it is not their story but ours, too.

When we answer the children’s questions we explain it was on account of what G-d did for me. So what place does a song about a goat have in this and how could it possibly contribute to the message of Passover?

There is much speculation about the origins of Chad Gadyah. Some suggest the song is a play on the statement in the Talmud by Rabbi Judah Bar Ilai (Baba Batra 10a): “There are 10 strong things in the world. Rock is strong but iron breaks it. Iron is strong but fire melts it. Fire is strong but water extinguishes it….Sleep is strong but death overcomes it. What is stronger than death? Acts of generosity, as it is written ‘Tzedakkah delivers from death ’(Prov. 10:1).”

The Vilna Gaon saw Chad Gadyah as an allusion to both the history and future of the Jewish people. The goats are the goats Jacob prepared for his father Isaac. The cat is the jealousy of the sons of Jacob. The dog is Pharoah who “bit” the children of Jacob. The staff is Moses’ staff which was passed on from leader to leader and so on, and according to the Vilna Gaon, concluding with the Slaughterer who represents the forces in this world that prevent ultimate redemption which will be defeated by G-d.

Law and Ethics.

So what are we to make of this conclusion to our Seders? Rabbi Jonathan Sacks writes, “…we end the Seder night with the universal hope that the angel of death will one day be defeated by the long over-due realization that G-d is life; that worshipping G-d means sanctifying life, that G-d’s command is ‘Choose life’; that we bring G-d into the world by making a blessing over life.” What Rabbi Sacks is referring to, and what makes this seemingly silly song that we rush through, try to say in one breath, and make a joke out of after drinking maybe a little too much, is the deceptively simple end in which death is destroyed and life affirmed for everyone.

It is, as Rabbi Sacks writes, a profound expression of “universal hope” that we conclude a night devoted to appreciating G-d liberating us, the Jewish people, by imagining a world in which all of creation is truly free from the pain and suffering of this world. In this way the singing of Chad Gadyah stands alongside the singing of Eliyahu Hanavi in which we welcome Elijah the Prophet into our homes, hopeful that this year will be the year in which all people everywhere experience a true redemption.

May this Passover be a true Zman Cherutaynu, a time of freedom and redemption, for all of creation. Chag Kasher v’Sameach!

Others still see the song as alluding to the different empires that have oppressed the Jewish people throughout history, all ultimately being defeated by G-d. It is worth noting that although Chad Gadyah has been the subject of numerous commentaries, neither Rashi nor Rambam included the song in their Haggadot, nor did Sadyah Gaon before them. The earliest version of Chad Gadyah is found in the 12th-Century work, the “Sefer Rokeach,” a Medieval guide to Jewish

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March 2010 • JCN • www.jvalley.org

upcoming events

By Pat Bergman THURSDAYS Silicon Valley Beit Midrash 9 AM-Noon, Mirkin Chapel at Sinai Join Rabbi Joshua Berkenwald and Rabbi Simcha Green for in-depth study of Jewish thought, belief, and practice. No fee; dropins are welcome; no experience necessary.

9-10:15 a.m.: Pirkei Avot; 10:30 a.m.-Noon: Mishnah Study. (408) 264-8542 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 Tot Shabbat 11:15 AM-12:15 PM, Beth David Join for a fun and interactive parent-led service for babies, toddlers, and preschool kids ages 0-5. Open to the whole community.

Tot Shabbat includes singing, storytelling, and a Kiddush snack! Free. Lori Kahn, lori. kahn@sbcglobal.net, (408) 257-3333

music of Laurent Fourgo and his ensemble.

Hamentaschen will be provided. Bring your own liquid refreshment to share. Free, donations welcome. Open to the community.

RSVP: dvorazim@templesanjose.org, www. templesanjose.org, (408) 292-0939 Gantze Megillah 8:30 PM, Beth David Come hear the "whole Megillah"; dress in costumes; bring graggers; eat Hamantaschen!

Barbara Biran, (408) 257-3333, biran@bethdavid.org, www.beth-david.org SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28 Gantze Megillah & Shaharit 9 AM, Beth David Join us for Shaharit services and hear the "whole Megillah"! Then stay & enjoy our Purim Carnival! Barbara Biran, (408) 257-3333, biran@beth-david.org, www.beth-david.org

Purim Carnival & Party 5 PM, Emeth Carnival booths open at 5, dinner at 6, followed by entertainment: Purim play “Emet Dor Kef—The Fun Generation” by Emeth’s youth group, Emeth’s band Klezmerology, Mighty Max DJ, and dancing. A full old-time Purim Carnival for children of all ages: new games, face painting and henna tattoos!

Hamburgers, hot dogs, and vegetarian alternatives will be sold for a carnival-style dinner! Bring hamantashen to share and other desserts as well, which will be very appreciated! Becky Neto, netolove@aol. com, www.emeth.net Purim Musical & Megillah Reading 6:30 PM, Sinai New this year: “Who Will Be the Next Shushan Idol?” Arvit, spirited Megillah reading and musical performance, Havdallah, refreshments. Free. All are welcome. office@ sinai-sj.org, www.sinai-sj.org, (408) 264-8542 Erev Purim Service & Megillah Reading 5 PM, Shir Hadash 5 PM Family Service; 5:45 PM Persian Dinner; 7 PM Service and Megillah Reading; 8 PM Purim Shpiel “A Wicked Purim.” (408) 358-1751, Nadine@shirhadash.org, www. shirhadash.org Family Megillah & Shpiel 7-8:15 PM, Beth David Delightful shpiel intermixed with our abridged family reading of the Megillah! Fun for all ages! Wear your costumes; bring your graggers to help blot out Haman's name!

Enjoy Hamantaschen following the reading!

Barbara Biran, biran@beth-david.org, www. beth-david.org Adults-Only: The Whole Megillah & Purim Ball 7-11 PM, Emanu-El This year's theme is the Swing era. Come in costume--think zoot suits and flashy dresses.

We'll read the whole Megillah like you've never heard it before and then dance to the live

Purim Shpiel & Carnival 11 AM-1 PM, Emanu-El Start with the Purim Shpiel (Monty Pythonstyle) in the Sanctuary. Then enjoy the Carnival in the Temple House and around the synagogue. Lunch will be available for purchase. Games, prizes, costume parade, hamentaschen, activities for children of all ages! (408) 292-0939, www.templesanjose. org, Purim Carnival 11 AM, Shir Hadash This year’s Purim Carnival is going to be bigger and better than ever! Enjoy great bouncers, slides, games, music, entertainment, prizes, great food served up by our Men’s Club, treats, and more. Adults and children, come in costume for our Costume Parade and be sure to sign up for the talent show! The carnival will also feature a new Mini Zone for our preschool students from 11 AM-Noon.

Carnival Chair Peter Stout or Religious School Admin. Ass’t.

Shanda Kaplowitz, (408) 358-1751 x2, www.shirhadash.org/ calendar/e/00994, shanda@shirhadash. org

Congregation Beth David is selling batches of homebaked hamantaschen and knishes to the community. Pre-order Hamantaschen, stuffed cabbage & potato knishes! Make check payable to "CBD Sisterhood." Hamantaschen $8/dozen (prune, poppy, cherry or apricot); vegetarian stuffed cabbage $25/dozen; stuffed cabbage (w/meat) $28/dozen; potato kinishes $12/dozen.

To pre-order for pick up at the carnival or arrange for early pick up, please contact Myrtle Schwartz, (408) 253-0845.

Megillah Reading 9 AM, Sinai office@sinai-sj.org, www.sinai-sj.org, (408) 264-8542 Talmud Study with Rabbi Aron 10:45 AM, Shir Hadash Using a new commentary by scholar Tal Ilan, examine Talmudic texts with an eye towards understanding Jewish life in Late Antiquity (approximately 100 BCE–300 CE). Professor Ilan has written extensively on Women in the Second Temple period. Patty, (408) 358-1751 x7, shirhadash.org/calendar/e/01065 Purim Carnival 11 AM to 2 PM, Beth David Fun event for all ages includes carnival games, arts & crafts, food from Queen Esther's Kitchen and a silent auction. www. bethdavid.org

Purim Puppet Show & Costume Parade 11-11:30 AM, Sinai Torah for Tots puppet show. Children of all ages will enjoy this silly Purim tale. office@ sinai-sj.org, www.sinaisj.org, (408) 264-8542

Purim Carnival & Persian Barbeque Lunch 11:30 AM-2 PM, Sinai Fun for all! Carnival games, jumpy house, goodies and more. A delicious kosher, Persian chicken meal will be available for $12. For kids a hot dog meal for $5. office@sinai-sj.org, www.sinai-sj.org, (408) 264-8542

“Walking with G-d” Class 7:30-9:30 PM, Sinai Monthly series on first Monday with Rabbi Berkenwald. Free. (408) 264-8542, office@ sinai-sj.org, www.sinai-sj.org TUESDAY, MARCH 2 Sharone Hadassah Table for 12 Noon, 20075 Chateau Drive, Saratoga Lunch for up to 20 women and/or men.

Topic: Green Gardening--Gardening With California Native Plants. Join the fun and support Hadassah. $18/person. RSVP: Jane Jacobson, Jane_Jacobson@usa.net, www.cpcr.hadassah.org, www.sharone-hadassah.org

What Makes Music Jewish?

7:30 PM, Shir Hadash Cantor Felder-Levy will use the book “Jewish Music as Midrash: What Makes Music Jewish?” to explore answers to this engaging question. You do not need to be a musician to benefit from this course, but please come ready to listen with open ears and open minds to help us engage in study and midrash.

Participants must purchase the book, which comes with a CD. We will read 1 or 2 chapters and then discuss the chapters and listen to the examples for those chapters in class. $40 to purchase the book. cantor@shirhadash. org, www.shirhadash.org/calendar/e/00824 THURSDAY, MARCH 4 Women’s Philanthropy’s Connections 2010 Event 5:30 PM, Levy Family Campus "Rhymes with Orange" cartoonist Hilary Price will be the guest speaker. The Janet Berg Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to Pat Bergman. Meal will be prepared under the supervision of the Va'ad HaKashrus of Northern California. Couvert: $75 (with minimum Annual Campaign Gift of $180).

RSVP: Arielle Hendel, (408) 357-7501, www. jvalley.org FRIDAY-SATURDAY, MARCH 5-6 Young Adult Shabbaton 5 PM, Friday to 10 PM, Saturday, Palo Alto Jewish Study Network, (650) 493-5764, info@ jsn.info SATURDAY, MARCH 6 Torah for Tots 11 AM-Noon, Sinai Social Hall For kids ages 0-5. Join families for fun, interactive, educational, parent-led services designed specifically to accomodate young children. You can expect plenty of singing, movement, and stories for your entire family to play a part. Remember, Sinai membership is not required. Please spread the word to anyone you know who might be interested in this exciting program. Maureen Krantz and Maria Elena Jarson, torahfortots@sinai-sj. org, www.sinai-sj.org, (408) 264-8542 Passover Wine-Tasting Kiddush Noon-2 PM, Sinai Come nosh on cheese and crackers, fruit and other wine compatible fare as you learn about and taste a variety of fine Kosher wines (grape juice available, too). Learn about what makes wine Kosher. Get expert advice about pairing wines with your Seder menu. Share your opinions and consider your options in a relaxed and convivial setting. www.sinai-sj. org, (408) 264-8542, office@sinai-sj.org SUNDAY, MARCH 7 Junior Kadima Bowling Event 1 PM-3 PM, ‘Strike’, Cupertino Open to all Jewish 5th-6th graders. $22/ member, $26/non-member includes 1 1/2 hours of bowling, shoe rental, cheese pizza and soda, and a $5 game card.

Rachel Schultz, racheleschultz@gmail.com

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www.jvalley.org • JCN • March 2010

upcoming events Israeli Dance 12:30 PM, Shir Hadash Join us to learn Israeli Folk Dances taught

by Rachel Tischler, or just come have a good time kicking up your heels. Bring your family and friends--everyone is invited.

The more the merrier! A $5 donation would be appreciated. Nadine Toby, (408) 3581751 x 5,nadine@shirhadash.org, www. shirhadash.org/calendar/e/00934 “The Lord of Hosts: Y-hweh as a War God” 12:30-3 PM, Beth David At this Lunch and Learn Seminar Professor of History Dr. Jonathan Roth, San Jose State University, will review the Biblical term “Lord of Hosts,” which comes from the Hebrew “Y-hweh Tzaba’ot.” A light lunch is available at the start. A small donation is requested to cover the cost of the lunch and the seminar. adulted@beth-david.org, www.beth-david. org, (408) 257-3333 Yom Iyun 1:30-5:30 PM, Levy Family Campus This is a day of learning for Jewish educators. The topic of the day's study will be “Social Action and Social Justice in Jewish Education” featuring Joel Grisshaver and Rabbi Marc Goodman. Sponsored by APJCC, CJLL and Federation. Free. Rabbi Joshua Fenton, rabbifenton@svjcc.org, (408) 357-7413 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 10 Lunch & Learn Noon-1:30 PM, Emanu-El Bring your lunch and come down and eat with Rabbi Magat and others. Monthly topics vary, depending on what may be in the news, upcoming holidays, and more. Deborah Zimmer, dvorazim@templesanjose.org, www.templesanjose.org Young Adults Meet & Greet 7 PM, Zeni Ethiopian, 1320 Saratoga Avenue, San Jose Schmooze with your Jews' Next Dor friends and make new ones, too. About $15/person.

Jews' Next Dor Meet & Greets are held monthly on the second Wednesday of the month. RSVP: JewsNextDor@beth-david. org FRIDAY, MARCH 12 Kabbalat Shabbat and Persian Shabbat Dinner at Sinai 6 PM, Sinai Join us in welcoming Shabbat together followed by a delicious and festive Persian Shabbat dinner at 7 PM. Early Bird Special for dinner: RSVP by March 9: $20/adult (age 13 and up); $5/child age 5-12; (free for children under age 5); $54 maximum per family. Reservations: (408) 264-8542, office@sinai-sj.org "No Shush" Shabbat & Aleph Class Service 6:30 PM, Shir Hadash

Nadine Toby, nadine@shirhadash.org, (408) 358-1751 x 5 Rock Shabbat 7:30 PM, Emanu-El Rock Shabbat services are fun for all ages. Come and sing along (song booklets provided) as Rabbi Dana Magat and Cantor Meeka Simerly lead the service, with back-up musicians and vocalists. Deborah Zimmer, dvorazim@templesanjose.org, www. templesanjose.org SATURDAY, MARCH 13 Torah N’Tefillah 10:30 AM-Noon, Sinai, Classroom 2 Students in religious or day school grades 3-7 can put their learning into practice by leading parts of the service, learning new melodies, and exploring Shabbat teachings and stories. Come join us for some volatile fun and learning. Led by Doug Brook, b’nei mitzvah educator. office@sinai-sj.org, www. sinai-sj.org, (408) 264-8542 Tot Shabbat 11:15 AM-12:15 PM, Beth David (See full entry under February 27.)

Free. Lori Kahn, lori.kahn@sbcglobal.net, (408) 257-3333 Jewish Book Discussion Group 1:30 PM, Beth David All adults and teens are welcome to this monthly group discussion. The group will discuss “To This Day” by S. Y. Agnon, led by Herm Stern. Miriam Marr, (650) 968-7138, miriam.marr@stanfordalumni.org, www. beth-david.org SUNDAY, MARCH 14 Blood Drive 9 AM-1 PM, Sinai Perform a mitzvah! About every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Donate blood to the Stanford Blood Bank and make a difference in someone's life. (408) 2648542, office@sinai-sj.org Rappin’ with the Rabbi 10-10:30 AM, Sinai Join this monthly gathering with Rabbi Berkenwald for coffee and casual discussions on relevant Jewish topics including: biomedical ethics, Judaism and food, and more. office@sinai-sj.org, www.sinai-sj.org, (408) 264-8542 Davening Master Class: Hallel 10:30 AM-Noon, Sinai Rabbi Berkenwald will lead a series of workshops on davening and the siddur.

These master classes focus on how the meaning of the prayers is conveyed through music, nusach, and movement. Especially designed for those who already know how to lead services or who are somewhat familiar with Jewish prayer. (408) 264-8542, office@ sinai-sj.org

Senior Kadima Ceramics Studio Event 2-4 PM, Petroglyphs, 37 N. Santa Cruz Avenue Los Gatos Open to all Jewish 7th-8th graders. Come join a bunch of your peers for a fun ceramics studio event where we will bring out our inner artist, making our very own Seder plate in time for Passover. All skill levels are welcome.

Rachel Schultz, racheleschultz@gmail.com, beth-david.org/get-involved/youthgroups Grandparents Circle Course 7 PM, Shir Hadash The Grandparents Circle is an educational and support program for Jewish grandparents whose adult children have intermarried. This multi-session program, led by interfaith grandparent Jean Bronstein with Rabbi Melanie Aron, is designed for Jewish grandparents whose children are intermarried and offers participants skills and techniques to share their Jewish heritages and nurture their interfaith grandchildren’s Jewish identities. Nadine Toby, nadine@ shirhadash.org, (408) 358-1751 x5 “Talking About the Holocaust & Jewish Identity” 7 PM, Shir Hadash Pre-registration is required! This is not a drop-in workshop. This program is free and open to members of the community, as well as members of Shir Hadash. Co-sponsored by the National Jewish Outreach Institute.

To register: Nadine@Shirhadash.org, (408) 358-1751 x5. For more info: RabbiAron@ Shirhadash.org, (408) 358-1751 x4 JSN Hot Topics: “Whistleblowers” 7 PM, 3626 El Camino Real, Palo Alto Hear all about it from Rabbi Shaye Guttenberg of the Jewish Study Network. $10/person.

(650) 493-5764, info@jsn.info MONDAY, MARCH 15 JSN “Wag the Tale” 8 PM, 3626 El Camino Real, Palo Alto Rabbi Josh Marder of the Jewish Study Network will help you learn how to ensure that you LEAD your Passover Seder. $10/ person. (650) 493-5764, info@jsn.info THURSDAY, MARCH 18 Freilache Menschen 11:30 AM, Shir Hadash Join seniors for a light lunch and program.

Nadine Toby, www.shirhadash.org/ calendar/e/01076, nadine@shirhadash.org, (408) 358-1751 x5 Martini and Manicure 7-9 PM, APJCC Enjoy a pampering evening--have a manicure and a martini. Refreshments will be served.

This event is for ages 21 and up. $25/JCC member, $35/non-member. Space is limited, so reserve your spot now! Rachel Rose, rachelr@svjcc.org, (408) 357-7419

FRIDAY, MARCH 19 Pajama Shabbat 6-8 PM, Beth David (See full entry March 19) RSVP requested, but not required, by the Wednesday before: (408) 257-3333. Lori Kahn, lori.kahn@ sbcglobal.net Increasing Diversity in the Jewish Community 8 PM, Shir Hadash Diane Tobin, founder and director of Be’Chol Lashon (In Every Tongue) and Dr. Denise Davis, physician and volunteer clinical faculty member at UCSF School of Medicine, will be the guest speakers. Free and open to the public. (408) 358-1751 SATURDAY, MARCH 20 Tot Shabbat 9:30 AM, Shir Hadash Celebrate Shabbat in a fun, accessible way at this event for families with very young children. Rabbi Lisa Levenberg, rabbilevenberg@shirhadash.org, www. shirhadash.org/calendar/e/00836 Torah for Tots 11 AM-Noon, Sinai Social Hall (See full entry March 6) Maureen Krantz and Maria Elena Jarson, torahfortots@sinai-sj.org, www.sinai-sj.org, (408) 264-8542 SUNDAY, MARCH 21 Mitzvah Day 9 AM, Emanu-El A variety of hands-on projects for all ages will take place at the synagogue. Mitzvah Day projects will include: Temple garden clean-up; making cards for Chai House residents; making reusable produce bags; letter-writing to soldiers and legislators; preparing a meal for a homeless shelter; making dog biscuits and catnip toys; making matzah covers for Jewish Family Services Project NOAH (No One Abandoned Here).

Non-perishable food will be collected for Second Harvest Food Bank (as you clean your pantries of chametz in preparation for Passover); and Passover goods will be collected for JFS. Info and sign up: (408) 292-0939 JFS’ A Yellow Tie Affair 5-9 PM, San Jose City Hall Rotunda Annual fundraising dinner for Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley. $95/person.

RSVP required: (408) 357-7543, sandig@ jfssv.org JSN “It’s About Time for…Pesach” 7:30 PM, 3626 El Camino Real, Palo Alto Turning your holiday into a Holy Day. Rabbi Motty Weinstock of the Jewish Study Network. $10/person. (650) 493-5764, info@jsn.info

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upcoming events WEDNESDAY, MARCH 24 Lunch and Learn Torah Study Noon-1:30 PM, Emanu-El (See full entry under March 10) Deborah Zimmer, dvorazim@templesanjose. org, www.templesanjose.org SATURDAY, MARCH 27 Tot Shabbat 11:15 AM-12:15 PM, Beth David (See full entry under February 27.)

Free. Lori Kahn, lori.kahn@sbcglobal.net, (408) 257-3333 MONDAY, MARCH 29 Siyyum Bechorim (Breaking the First Born's Fast) 7:30-8:30 AM, Sinai Morning service, study session and refreshments. Non-first-borns welcome, too.

Followed by chametz burning in parking lot, 8:30-10 AM. office@sinai-sj.org, www.sinaisj.org, (408) 264-8542 Camp Aviv--Spring Camp 9 AM-3 PM, APJCC Come out and enjoy the spring sunshine at the JCC's spring day camp, Camp Aviv, for pre-K to 5th grades. More info coming soon.

Andrew Mendes, andrew@svjcc.org, (408) 357-7447 TUESDAY, MARCH 30 Second Night Seder 5 PM, Emanu-El Rabbi Dana Magat and Cantor Meeka Simerly will lead an interactive Seder. Experience the Exodus from Egypt and journey toward freedom in the company of friends and family.

Advance reservations and payment are required. $36/member; $54/non-member; $18/child 5-10; free for children ages 4 and under. Checks payable to Temple Emanu-El may be sent to 1010 University Avenue, San Jose, CA 95126. Please indicate the number of guests. Deborah Zimmer, dvorazim@ templesanjose.org, www.templesanjose.org, (408) 292-0939 Second Night Seder 8 PM, Sinai Social Hall Join us as we commemorate the exodus from Egypt with spirited singing, engaging discussions and a delicious catered, kosherfor-Passover Seder meal. Led by Rabbi Josh Berkenwald, the Seder is traditional, participatory, and interactive. $38/adults, $20/child 6 to 12, and free/child 5 and under.

Small Afikoman (matzah hunt) prizes will be provided for children 12 and under. Reserve seats early for guaranteed seating: (408) 264-8542, office@sinai-sj.org, www.sinai-sj.org SATURDAY, APRIL 3 Shabbat in Nature 10 AM, Joseph D Grant County Park Meet in the Rose Garden Picnic Area at the park for Shabbat morning service, with liturgy and music led by Rabbi Dana Magat and Cantor Meeka Simerly. Enjoy a potluck lunch, stimulating discussion, music

(bring your instruments), and a walk to see the spring wildflowers. The schedule is intentionally open-ended so that each person can create a meaningful day. Please bring a dish to share with others. Deborah Zimmer, (408) 292-0939, dvorazim@templesanjose. org, www.templesanjose.org Torah for Tots 11 AM-Noon, Sinai Social Hall (See full entry under March 6.)

Maureen Krantz and Maria Elena Jarson, torahfortots@sinai-sj.org, www.sinai-sj.org, (408) 264-8542 TUESDAY, APRIL 6 What Makes Music Jewish?

7:30 PM, Shir Hadash (See full entry under March 2) Cantor FelderLevy, (408) 358-1751, cantor@shirhadash. org Pirke Avot (Ethics of the Fathers) Class 7:30 PM, Shir Hadash This class will focus on the collection of ethical teachings found in our rabbinic tradition from nearly two-thousand years ago. It is traditional to study Pirke Avot from Passover to Shavuot. Instructor Rabbi Steven Kaplan was previously involved in the Ethiopian Jewry Rescue Movement to bring Ethiopian Jews to Israel. RSVP required: Patty, (408) 358-1751, ext. 7. Nadine Toby, shirhadash.org/calendar/e/00993, nadine@ shirhadash.org, (408) 358-1751 x5 THURSDAYS Silicon Valley Beit Midrash 9 AM-Noon, Mirkin Chapel at Sinai Join Rabbi Joshua Berkenwald and Rabbi Simcha Green for in-depth study of Jewish thought, belief, and practice. No fee; dropins are welcome; no experience necessary.

9-10:15 a.m.: Pirkei Avot; 10:30 a.m.-Noon: Mishnah Study. (408) 264-8542 SATURDAY, APRIL 10 Torah N’Tefillah 10:30 AM-Noon, Sinai, Classroom 2 (See full entry under March 13) Led by Doug Brook, b’nei mitzvah educator. office@sinai-sj.org, www.sinai-sj.org, (408) 264-8542 Tot Shabbat 11:15 AM-12:15 PM, Beth David (See full entry February 27) Free. Lori Kahn, lori.kahn@sbcglobal.net, (408) 257-3333 Jewish Book Discussion Group 1:30 PM, Beth David All adults and teens are welcome to this monthly group discussion. The group will discuss “The Zookeeper’s Wife” by Diane Ackerman, led by Ruth Kohan. Miriam Marr, miriam.marr@stanfordalumni.org, www. beth-david.org, (650) 968-7138 SUNDAY, APRIL 11 Rappin’ with the Rabbi 10-10:30 AM, Sinai

(See full entry under March 14) office@sinai-sj.org, www.sinai-sj.org, (408) 264-8542 Dr. Saul Wasserman on “Adolescents & Stress” 10:45 AM, Shir Hadash This is a Caring Committee event. Nadine Toby, nadine@shirhadash.org, shirhadash. org/calendar/e/01245, (408) 358-1751 x5 Swim Lesson Kickoff 1 PM, APJCC Planning to sign up for swim lessons at the JCC this summer, or want to learn more about it? Join us for this fun kickoff event! At this event, you can have your child assessed by one of our swim instructors to make sure he/she gets registered in the correct class.

Everyone who attends the Group Swim Lesson Kickoff Event today will have FREE usage of our entire Fitness Facility for the day, for your whole family. Free and open to the public. Jamie Winslow, (408) 357-7423, jamiew@svjcc.org Community Yom HaShoah Service 7:30 PM, Shir Hadash Nadine Toby, (408) 358-1751 x5, nadine@ shirhadash.org THURSDAY, APRIL 15 Freilache Menschen 11:30 AM, Shir Hadash Join seniors for a light lunch and program.

Nadine Toby, nadine@shirhadash.org or www.shirhadash.org/calendar/e/01076, (408) 358-1751 x5 SATURDAY, APRIL 17 Tot Shabbat 9:30 AM, Shir Hadash (See full entry under March 20) Rabbi Lisa Levenberg, rabbilevenberg@ shirhadash.org, www.shirhadash.org/ calendar/e/00836 Torah for Tots 11 AM-Noon, Sinai Nursery School (See full entry under March 6.)

Maureen Krantz and Maria Elena Jarson, torahfortots@sinai-sj.org, www.sinai-sj.org, (408) 264-8542 SUNDAY, APRIL 18 Israel Today 10:45 AM, Shir Hadash Join Rabbis Melanie Aron and Joel Fleekop in exploring the current culture, politics, and realities of life in Israel. Materials fee, if necessary. Reservations are: Patty, (408) 358-1751 x7, patty@shirhadash.org, shirhadash.org/calendar/e/00959 HSV “Pillars of the Community” Lunch 11:30 AM, APJCC Auditorium Hillel of Silicon Valley’s annual event honors members of the community and student leaders. Registration and tribute ad info: www.hillelsv.org, (408) 286-6669

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21 Business and Bagels 7:30 AM, Levy Family Campus Guest speaker is Allen Ruby, prominent San Jose attorney. Open to everyone. $15/ person. RSVP required: Arielle Hendel, (408) 357-7501 THURSDAY, APRIL 22 Social Mixer 6:30 PM, APJCC Enjoy complimentary wine and hors d'oeuvres in the JCC lobby. Open to the public, so feel free to bring friends. This month's mixer theme is "A Taste of Latin Night." Eli McGinty, elim@svjcc.org, (408) 357-7513 SATURDAY, APRIL 24 Tot Shabbat 11:15 AM-12:15 PM, Beth David (See full entry under February 27.)

Free. Lori Kahn, lori.kahn@sbcglobal.net, (408) 257-3333 Club 30 Anniversary Gala 6 PM, Fourth Street Garage, San Jose Enjoy food, entertainment, and an auction, all in celebration of Shir Hadash's 30th Anniversary. To get involved or info: club30@shirhadash.org, shirhadash.org/ calendar/e/01068, (408) 358-1751 x5 SUNDAY, APRIL 25 Davening Master Class: Shacharit 10 AM-Noon, Sinai (See full entry under March 14) (408) 264-8542, office@sinai-sj.org “Mystery & History in the Dead Sea Scrolls” 12:30-3 PM, Beth David The Lunch & Learn speaker is Dr. Steven Weitzman, professor of Jewish and Religious Studies, Stanford University. What do the Dead Sea Scrolls tell us about the Bible and about the origins of Judaism that was not known before their discovery? A light lunch is available at the start. A small donation is requested to cover the cost of the lunch and the seminar. adulted@beth-david.org, www. beth-david.org, (408) 257-3333 JSN Hot Topics: “The Kabballah Industry” 7 PM, 3626 El Camino Real, Palo Alto Hear all about it from Rabbi Joey Felsen of the Jewish Study Network. $10/person.

(650) 493-5764, info@jsn.info FRIDAY, APRIL 30 Pajama Shabbat 6-8 PM, Beth David (See full entry March 19) Please respond

by Wednesday before: (408) 257-3333. Lori Kahn, lori.kahn@sbcglobal.net Synaplex Shabbat Service--Soaring, Nuclear Weapons, and Judaism 8 PM, Shir Hadash Professor Emeritus of Electrical Engineering Martin Hellman, Stanford University, is a glider pilot and a Jew who has a deep concern about nuclear weapons. Applying

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upcoming events concepts from risk analysis, the speaker explores not only the danger posed by nuclear weapons, but also how Tikkun Olam is needed to reduce the risk to an acceptable level. Hellman has served on the faculty of M.I.T., is the author of over seventy technical papers, and holds six U.S. patents. Free and open to the public. Nadine Toby, (408) 3581751 x5, nadine@shirhadash.org, www. shirhadash.org/calendar/e/00964 SATURDAY, MAY 1 Torah for Tots 11 AM-Noon, Sinai Social Hall (See full entry under March 6.)

Maureen Krantz and Maria Elena Jarson, torahfortots@sinai-sj.org, www.sinai-sj.org, (408) 264-8542 SUNDAY, MAY 2 Health Fair 9 AM, Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 2020 E. San Antonio St., San Jose We need general volunteers, physicians, and translators. Teens are also welcome and can earn community service hours. To volunteer: Julie Collier, collier@stanford.edu, (408) 838-0305, Robin Mano, robinmano1@ gmail.com, (408) 891-1768, OLoG Church, (408) 258-7057 Third Annual Wine-Tasting Dinner & Raffle 3-7PM, Satori Cellars, 2100 Buena Vista Avenue, Gilroy Join Morgan Hill's Congregation Emeth for an elegant afternoon of wine, food, and fun featuring Famous Dave's Texas Beef Brisket, Country Roasted Pasta, and Green Salad, followed by Apple Pie. Music with DJ Ed Steiner and lots of great raffle and auction prizes. $36/person includes dinner and wine-tasting. $15/child under 12. RSVP

by April 23: Kathy, (408) 578-4954, Events@ Emeth.net JSN Lag B'Omer Bonfire & BBQ 7 PM, 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto Event held at the Lucie Stern Firepit and sponsored by Jewish Study Network. $10/ person. (650) 493-5764, info@jsn.info Lag B’Omer Evening Bonfire 7:30 PM, Shir Hadash (408) 358-1751

TUESDAY, MAY 4 What Makes Music Jewish?

7:30 PM, Shir Hadash (See full entry March 2) Cantor Felder-Levy, (408) 358-1751, cantor@shirhadash.org, www.shirhadash.org/calendar/e/00824 THURSDAYS Silicon Valley Beit Midrash 9 AM-Noon, Mirkin Chapel at Sinai Join Rabbi Joshua Berkenwald and Rabbi Simcha Green for in-depth study of Jewish thought, belief, and practice. No fee; dropins are welcome; no experience necessary.

9-10:15 a.m.: Pirkei Avot; 10:30 a.m.-Noon: Mishnah Study. (408) 264-8542 THURSDAY, MAY 6 Kehillah Jewish High School’s Sixth Annual Gala 7 PM, Oshman Family JCC, 3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto www.kehillah.org, (650) 213-9600 FRIDAY, MAY 7 30th Anniversary Shabbat Service 8 PM, Shir Hadash Nadine Toby, nadine@shirhadash.org, (408) 358-1751 x5 SATURDAY, MAY 8 Torah N’Tefillah 10:30 AM-Noon, Sinai, Classroom 2 (See full entry under March 13) Led by Doug Brook, b’nei mitzvah educator. office@sinai-sj.org, www.sinai-sj.org, (408) 264-8542 Jewish Book Discussion Group 1:30 PM, Beth David All adults and teens are welcome to this monthly group discussion. The group will discuss “My Jesus Year: A Rabbi's Son Wanders the Bible Belt in Search of His Own Faith" by Binyamin Cohen, led by Michael Sinensky. Miriam Marr, miriam.marr@ stanfordalumni.org, www.beth-david.org, (650) 968-7138 SUNDAY, MAY 9 Israel Today 10:45 AM, Shir Hadash Kibbutzim, Jaffa Oranges, and Folk Dancing. These images of Israel at her infancy are familiar to many of us. But as the Jewish state celebrates her sixty-second birthday, what icons best capture Israel today? It’s an increasingly urban country with a knowledge-based economy. Join Rabbis Melanie Aron and Joel Fleekop in exploring the current culture, politics, and realities of life in Israel.

Reservations are encouraged so that materials can be available. Materials fee, if necessary. Registration: Patty, (408) 358-1751, x7, patty@shirhadash. org, www.shirhadash.

org/calendar/e/00959

264-8542, email office@sinai-sj.org

Silicon Valley Celebrates Israel 1-5 PM, Levy Family Campus (408) 358-3636

Community Tikkun Leyl Shavuot with Rabbi Lawrence Kushner 9:30 pm, Sinai Rabbi Lawrence Kushner, noted author, lecturer, and teacher of contemporary Jewish spirituality and mysticism, joins Silicon Valley rabbis and other educators teaching Torah late into the night. Come following Dairy Delight Dinner at Sinai, from your own home celebration, or your confirmation festivities. Enjoy food for thought as well as plenty of coffee, tea and cheesecake. Free.

No reservation required. (408) 264-8542, office@sinai-sj.org

TUESDAY, MAY 11 Difficult Discussions Made Easier: Living Wills and Advanced Directives 7:30 PM, Sinai Dr. Dana Romalis will lead an interactive workshop on the importance of planning ahead of time for end-of-life issues. Rabbi Josh Berkenwald will address making endof-life decisions within a Jewish context.

Participants will be guided through the decision-making process and will begin to formulate their own living wills. This workshop is appropriate for all adults, especially seniors and those with aging parents. Free. Non-members are welcome.

(408) 264-8542, office@sinai-sj.org SATURDAY, MAY 15 Tot Shabbat 9:30 AM, Shir Hadash Celebrate Shabbat in a fun, accessible way at this event for families with very young children. Rabbi Lisa Levenberg, rabbilevenberg@shirhadash.org, shirhadash.org/calendar/e/00836 Torah for Tots 11 AM-Noon, Sinai Social Hall (See full entry under March 6.)

Maureen Krantz and Maria Elena Jarson, torahfortots@sinai-sj.org, www.sinai-sj.org, (408) 264-8542 Tot Shabbat 11:15 AM-12:15 PM, Beth David (See full entry under February 27.)

Free. Lori Kahn, lori.kahn@sbcglobal.net, (408) 257-3333 JCC Annual Gala 6-11 PM, APJCC This gala promises to be the best ever! Our theme will be "Cruise Around the World at the JCC." Enjoy gourmet dining, hot auction items, music and dancing in our exotic "ports of call"--Tel Aviv, Puerto Vallarta, Hong Kong, and Monte Carlo. Gala honorees are Bonnie Slavitt Moore and Jack Moore. Make your reservation now! Space is limited! $150/ person. For tickets or for sponsorship info: Diana Schnabel, diana@svjcc.org, (408) 357-7402 SUNDAY, MAY 16 JSN Hot Topic: “Is Orthodoxy Outdated?”

7 PM, 3626 El Camino Real, Palo Alto Find out from Rabbi Motty Weinstock. $10/ person. (650) 493-5764, info@jsn.info TUESDAY, MAY 18 Shavuot Service & Dairy Delight Dinner 7:50 PM, Sinai Informal, family-friendly service followed by a delicious Shavuot meal. Open to the entire community. Service and meal are free, but advance RSVP required for dinner. (408)

THURSDAY, MAY 20 Freilache Menschen 11:30 AM, Shir Hadash Join us for a light lunch and program.

Nadine Toby, nadine@shirhadash.org, www. shirhadash.org/calendar/e/01076, (408) 358-1751 x5 SATURDAY, MAY 22 Tot Shabbat 11:15 AM-12:15 PM, Beth David (See full entry under February 27.)

Free. Lori Kahn, lori.kahn@sbcglobal.net, (408) 257-3333 SUNDAY, MAY 23 Shir Hadash Book Group 10:45 AM, Shir Hadash "People of the Book" by Geraldine Brooks will be discussed. Free and open to the community. Nadine Toby, nadine@ shirhadash.org, (408) 358-1751 x5 Pet Adoption Day TBA, Levy Family Campus Adopt a rescued dog or puppy through the Companion Animal Rescue Effort (C.A.R.E.) of San Jose. Dina Jacobson, dina@svjcc. org, (408) 357-7499 Dinner Honoring Rabbi Avi Schochet 6 PM, Santa Clara Convention Center Join South Peninsula Hebrew Day School in honoring Rabbi Avi Schochet who is retiring as Headmaster at the end of this year after 12 years of service. Help us celebrate his achievements and thank him for his work in the community. (408) 738-3060, www.sphds. org How to Get Your Organization’s Events Listed in the JCN: Email cecily@jvalley.org by April 27.

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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March 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ JCN â&#x20AC;˘ www.jvalley.org

local news cont. from p.7 "Shir Hadash celebrates..."

In 1990, Rabbi Melanie Aron became the solo rabbi for Shir Hadash. Again the congregation showed its progressive leanings, as at that time almost all female rabbis were still assistants or educators. Rabbi Aron is considered a gift by many and her visions are paralleled with those of the congregation.

In 1994 Shir Hadash completed a second Capital Campaign to build its synagogue sanctuary and remodel the school building. President Gail Long declared to the congregation: "Today we are no longer 'that start-up congregation' but a dynamic presence in the greater Jewish community.

Today we turn a page and add our voices to an ever-changing song." In 1996 construction finally began and Cantor Devorah Felder began her service to the congregation.

Since the completion of that construction project in 1997, Congregation Shir Hadash has reached out to more families and added additional permanent staff, including Executive Directors Debbie Countant and Art Scher, Assistant Rabbi Joel Fleekop and Educator Rabbi Lisa Levenberg. Shir Hadash began another capital campaign fund to accommodate the growth in the congregation and build a preschool. Under the guidance of President Jay Friedman along with Executive Director Art Sher, the renovation project was underway in 2008 and completed by July 2009. Robin Adelman, an experienced early childhood educator, was hired to head the preschool which is inspired by the Reggio Learning system. A preschool playscape was built by volunteers, and the Shir Hadash Early Childhood Center opened in the fall 2009. The generational growth at Shir Hadash is present in the preschool with grandchildren of some of the founding members.

On April 17 there will be a celebration of adult learning with the participation of past Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;nai Mitzvah classes celebrating significant anniversaries, and on April 24 Shir Hadash celebrates with a Gala Fundraising event, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Club 30â&#x20AC;? which will be a jazzy dinner club-style evening.

On May 7 Shir Hadash will host a 30th anniversary service. The service will be 30 years and two days shy of the first-ever Shir Hadash Shabbat service.

This was held on May 5, 1980 by Rabbi Jerry Levy at the Presbyterian Church in Los Gatos (across the street from the present Temple). Shir Hadashâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first Torah was a loan from Sherith Israel in San Francisco.

For more info about the upcoming anniversary events, call (408) 358-1751.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I choose real nurses.â&#x20AC;? h) TAKE MORE THAN PILLS A DAY ) WANTED A PLACE WHERE THE STAFF WAS TRAINED

WHERE THEY D REALLY PAY ATTENTION TO ME "ELMONT 6ILLAGE IS THE ONLY ASSISTED LIVING RESIDENCE ) KNOW OF WITH A LICENSED NURSE ON SITE HOURS A DAY "UT MORE IMPORTANT TO ME THEY HAVE A CHEF RESTAURANT DINING AND A DRIVER TOO v

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I Choose Belmont Villageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; s ,ICENSED NURSE ON SITE AROUND THE CLOCK s -EDICATION MANAGEMENT s #HEF PREPARED RESTAURANT STYLE DINING s &REE SCHEDULED TRANSPORTATION DAILY s &ITNESS AND SOCIAL ACTIVITIES s (OUSEKEEPING AND LAUNDRY s !SSISTANCE WITH DAILY LIVING s #IRCLE OF &RIENDSÂŽ MEMORY PROGRAM s 3HORT TERM STAYS AVAILABLE s 3PECIALIZED !LZHEIMER S CARE

Happy Passover!

San Jose 500 S. Winchester Blvd.

(408) 984-4767 Sunnyvale 1039 E. El Camino Real (408) 720-8498 RCFE Lic. 435201045, 435201122 Š 2010 Belmont Village, L.P.

Call 866-905-2266 or visit www.belmontvillage.com to order your free guide to Assisted Living

Coming Events at Shir Hadash @ Synaplex Shabbat Congregation Shir Hadash

Saturday March 6th at 9:30 - noon Passover focused activities include â&#x20AC;&#x153;Build your own Hagaddahâ&#x20AC;? workshop and a Best Passover Recipe Contest.

10:30 Service features the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Parsha Performanceâ&#x20AC;?. At 11:30 guest speaker, Rabbi Gary Bretton-Granatoor will speak on the efforts of the World Union for Progressive Judaism.

Saturday, April 24, 2010 at 6:00 PM at the 4th Street Garage, San Jose A snazzy, jazzy 30th anniversary celebration and fundraiser.

Ticket info at http://www.shirhadash.org/club30/info.html

@ Synaplex Shabbat,

@ No Shush Shabbat - The Kid-Friendly Service for families with school

Friday, April 30th , 6- 9PM, Pirke Avot Teachings of the Sages For families with young children 6:00 PM Early dinner 6:30 Visits from the Sages- three hams dress up as Akibah, Hillel and Bruriah and tell a story of their life.

@ Tot Shabbat for families with small children

For adults 6:30 Wine and Cheese with Mixer followed by 7:00 PM dinner 7:45 Service; Also running the movie THE TALMUD A MUSICAL 8:30 Speaker- Levine Lecture RSVP to Nadine at nadine@shirhadash.org or 358-1751 x5

age children Friday March 12th and May 14th at 6:30 PM Family pizza at 5:45 PM, $4.00 per person RSVP to Nadine at nadine@shirhadash.org or 358-1751 x5 Saturdays March 20th, April 17th. May 15th at 9:30 AM Service features stories, song and Torah.

@ Passover Seder led by Rabbi Fleekop

Monday March 29th at 6:00 PM Cost is $18 per person or $54 max per family Catered by Rachel Wilson, Kosher style for Passover RSVP to Nadine at nadine@shirhadash.org or 358-1751 x5.

@ Adult Education: 20 Cherry Blossom Lane Los Gatos, CA 95032 408-358-1751 www.shirhadash.org

@ Club30

Pirke Avot Class â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ethics of our Fathers Every Tuesday at 7:30 PM April 5th to May 11th Study Jewish ethical teachings over the centuries with Rabbi Steve Kaplan. It is traditional to study Pirke Avot from Passover to Shavuot.

Israel Today Sundays April 18th, 25th, May 2nd, 9th at 10:45 AM â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12 Noon Explore the current culture, politics and realities of life in Israel with Rabbis Aron and Fleekop.

Please register with Patty Cruz at patty@shirhadash.org or 358-1751 x7

@ Community Shabbat

Saturday May 1st at 10:30 AM, Lag Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Omer

@ Health Fair, Sunday May 2nd

All day event at Our Lady of Guadaloupe Church in San Jose

@ Shir Hadash Early Childhood Center

Now enrolling for Fall 2010 Full and half day enrollment available, For children 2 years old to Kindergarten For more information or a school tour, contact Robin Adelman at Robin@shirhadash.org or 358-1751 x115.

Please check the Shir Hadash website at www.shirhadash.org for upcoming events and information.

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www.jvalley.org • JCN • March 2010

super sunday & aliyah Come Paw Around at Temple Emanu-El March/April 2010 Furry Friend’s Shabbat March 19-20

Mitzvah Day March 21

9:00 AM Speaker Jamie Allen from the Humane Society will present “My Dog Said What?”

10:00 AM– 12:30 PM Hands-on animal themed service with our Mitzvah Day projects Renanim (Junior Choir).

1:00 PM Presentation on eWaste Saturday 9:00 AM Rabbi Magat For More Information Contact the and Cantor Simerly will lead a pet Temple Office. RSVP Requested.

Join us as we celebrate and honor the presence of animals in our lives.

Friday 7:30 PM Enjoy a special

friendly service followed by lunch and walk to Guadalupe & Heritage Virginia Hess dials with a smile.

Gary Nankin dials for dollars at Super Sunday.

Spend Second Night Seder with your Temple Emanu-El Family!

Tuesday March 30th Promptly at 6:00 PM It’s time to read the haggadah and enjoy a warm seder with your friends and family at Temple Emanu-El. Watch children hunt for the Afikomen and win a prize! Passover dinner served; bring your own wine. Vegetarian meals upon request only. Everyone is welcome.

Children ages 4 and under eat free!

Children 5-10: $18 Diners 11-64: $36 for members Seniors 65 +/Students with ID: $30 for members Non-Members: $54 Reservations due to the Temple Office by March 26— check only.

Shabbat in Nature at Joseph D. Grant County Park Saturday April 3 at 10:30 AM

Rabbi Joey Felsen and Jonathan Novich keep their phones "off the hook."

Wander through the wilderness just as the Israelites did many years ago. Morning service in the Rose Garden picnic area with liturgy and music led by Rabbi Dana Magat and Cantor Meeka Simerly. Enjoy a potluck lunch, stimulating discussion, music , and a walk in fields of carpeted in wild flowers. Please bring a dish to share with others.

RSVP for directions from the Temple Office.

1010 University Ave, San Jose, CA 95126 Temple Office Phone(408)292Ǧ0939 www.templesanjose.org Religious School Phone (408)292Ǧ3223

Madelyn Isaacs, Susan Gavens and Miri Rubin enjoying the Women's Philanthropy Aliyah Event at Maggiano's

Judy Feld Carr, keynote speaker at the Aliyah Event with Judy Levin and Judy Borah

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March 2010 • JCN • www.jvalley.org

PASSOVER HAPPENINGS I N S I L I CO N VA L L E Y You are Invited to Participate in These Silicon Valley Community Celebrations: Are you looking for a home Seder on the first or second night of Passover? All local synagogues have a place for you.

Please contact any of the Silicon Valley synagogues.

For more information on local synagogues please go to www.jvalley.org/comm/pages/community/organizations

Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center 408.358.3636 | www.svjcc.org Thursday, March 11, 6:30-8:00 p.m.

Healthy eating can be a challenge during Passover, when you’re tempted by all those kugels and matza balls. With Passover just around the corner, join Jennifer Ruiz M.S., Nutrition Consultant at the Addison-Penzak JCC, for a free lecture on how to follow a healthy and balanced diet during Passover. You will learn Passoverfriendly eating and shopping tips, as well as how to lighten up traditional Passover recipes. For more information please contact Jennifer Ruiz at 408.657.0926 or JenniferR@svjcc.org

Chabad of S. Jose 408.358.5530 | www.chabadsj.com Passover Community Seders Open to All Join us for the Community Seders on March 29 and 30.

Adult $45, Children (under 10) $30. No one will be turned away for lack of funds, all are invited: no background or affiliation necessary call 408.358.5530 or visit www.chabadsj.com

Congregation Beth David 408.257.3333 | www.beth-david.org Spend Passover with your friends at Beth David! Need a place for a seder - contact Barbara Biran 408.366.9106 to be matched up with members from the Beth David community. Services will be held at 9:30 a.m. on March 29, 30; April 5 & 6 (includes Yizkor)

“Hagaddah Hop” – Passover Mishpaha Program Sunday, March 21, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

There will be something for everyone to hop to during this Passover learning program. Age-appropriate interactive stations will guide K-13 kids/parents through the 15 steps of the Hagaddah. Program for tots begins at 10:45 a.m. (playroom available from 9:30 a.m.); adult lecture at 10:30 a.m.; activities will include art, community sing-a-long, sampling Passover foods; “Secret Seder” for older students/ adults and much more. No charge; open to the community.

Congregation Shir Hadash 408.358.1751 | www.shirhadash.org First Night Seder Family Far Away? Friends Scattered? Join us for a First Night Seder. Celebrate the first night of Passover at Congregation Shir Hadash! Join us for a Seder, led by Rabbi Joel Fleekop, on Monday, March 29 from 6 - 9:30 p.m. $18 per preson, $54 per family. For more information and to RSVP contact Nadine at 408.358.1752 ext 5 or nadine@shirhadash.org

Passover Dinner with Congregation Shir Hadash At Chai House Join us at 6 p.m. Friday evening April 2 at Chai House for a Kosher for Passover dinner preceeding our 8 p.m. services at Shir Hadash. This is part of our first Friday Shabbat dinner program. Dinner is $13 and includes chicken or salmon as well as chicken soup and other Passover favorites. For more information and to RSVP contact Nadine at 408.358.1752 ext 5 or nadine@shirhadash.org Join Us On Shabbat Morning, April 3, For Our Passover Community Shabbat Our 10:30 a.m. Shabbat service will include a special celebration of Passover. No rsvp necessary. All are welcome.

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www.jvalley.org • JCN • March 2010

PASSOVER HAPPENINGS IN SILICON VALLEY Passover Yizkor Service On The 7th Day Of Passover This brief service is timed so that those who need to go to work may still join us and fulfill the mitzvah of reciting Yizkor for their loved ones. Join us at 6 p.m. Monday, April 5, at Congregation Shir Hadash. No rsvp is necessary.

Congregation Sinai 408.394.6652 | www.sinai-sj.org Chametz’s Last Hurrah Monday, March 29, 7:00-8:30 a.m.

Siyyum Bechorim - Break the Fast of the First Born with learning and breakfast (the final chametz before the holiday).

Non-first borns welcome also. Chametz Burning - Burn the last of your crumbs in the Sinai parking lot. 8:30-10:00 a.m.

Community Passover Seder Tuesday, March 30 at 8:00 p.m.

Congregation Sinai of San Jose is proud to present its annual second night Seder, led by Rabbi Josh Berkenwald. Join us to re-experience the exodus from Egypt with a participatory, and interactive program and a delicious catered, kosher-for-Passover meal. $38 for adults, $20 for children (6 to 12), free for children 5 and under. Please call the Sinai office at 408.264.8542 or visit the Sinai website www.sinai-sj.org for online registration.

Open to all.

Passover Shabbat Dinner Tired of cooking Passover food? Come to Shabbat and Passover dinner on Friday, April 2 following 6 p.m. services. RSVP by March 29 to the Sinai office at 408.264.8542 or office@sinai-sj. org. $20 per adult (age 13 and up) $5 per child (age 5-12), free for children under age 5. $54 maximum per family.

Hillel of Silicon Valley 408.286.6669 | www.hillelsv.org Passover Seder at Santa Clara University Wednesday, March 31, 6 p.m.

Student Passover Seder at the Hillel House Monday, April 5, 7 p.m.

Hillel of Silicon Valley offers FREE Kosher for Passover food at the Hillel house for students during the entire week of Passover.

For the first and second nights (Seders), Hillel offers home hospitality for students. If interested please contact Benji at campusprograms@hillelsv.org or 408.286.6669.

JCRC 408.357.7504 | www.jvalley.org “Let All Who Are Hungry Come and Eat”: A Child Nutrition Seder Santa Clara University, Adobe Lodge April 6, 7 p.m. RSVP by March 29 to diane@jvalley.org or 408.357.7504. This is a special Passover seder that leads to a call to action. Co-sponsored with JCRC by the Food and Agribusiness Institute/Leavey School of Business, the Interfaith Council, Hillel and the Jewish Law Students Association, Santa Clara University, and the Cardozo Society. The Seder is free and open to students, faculty, and community members.

PJ Library 408.358.3033 | www.jvalley.org March 25 3:30-5pm Levy Family Campus Passover treasure hunt: stories, songs and snacks for children up to 7 years old. Sponsored by The PJ Library Program, APJCC Preschool and Yavneh Day School.

SVYAD 408.357.7503 | www.jvalley.org 2nd Night Seder Tuesday, March 30, 8:00 p.m. Private Home in Sunnyvale Warm and welcoming environment for all young adults (21-45) $30/person, includes seder meal and wine.

RSVP requested at www.jvalley.org

Temple Emanu-El 408.292.0939 | www.templesanjose.org Community Second Night Seder Tuesday, March 30, 6:00 p.m. in Temple House $54 (10 years and over); $18 (children ages 5-10) Free for children 4 years and under Includes festive meal and all ritual foods.

Led by Rabbi Dana Magat and Cantor Meeka Simerly.

RSVP by March 23 (prepayment required) Shabbat in Nature in Celebration of Passover Saturday, April 3, 10:30 a.m.

Joseph D. Grant County Park, Rose Garden Picnic Area Liturgy and music led by Rabbi Dana Magat and Cantor Meeka Simerly. Bring a Kosher-for-Passover dish to share for the potluck lunch. Discussion, music (bring your instruments), and hikes.

Women’s Seder Thursday, April 1, 6 p.m. $12 per person plus a side dish or salad (Kosher for Passover) to share. Entrée and ritual foods provided. Come celebrate in the company of women. RSVP by March 25. Checks made payable Temple Emanu-El Sisterhood.

www.jvalley.org

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March 2010 • JCN • www.jvalley.org

obituaries WILMA "BILLIE" CRIST [October 12, 1913 - January 29, 2010] Wilma “Billie” Crist, mother of Judy Levin, passed away peacefully at the age of 96 after a short bout of pneumonia. She had lived in Los Gatos for 20 years and was a daily fixture in Judy’s life, maintaining both a high level of mental and physical health to the end. Billie was always involved in caring for others and volunteering for her community and served as a great example to her children.

STUART H. GANZ [August 6, 1920-January 24, 2010] Stuart H. Ganz was born in Omaha, NE.. He was predeceased by his wife of 49 years, Mat. He was a loving father to his three children, Stu (Barbara Ann), Barbara Persin (Jeff) and Nancy Ganz Lindley, and a loving grandfather to his grandchildren, Pam, Alison, Brian, Jason and Melissa. He also leaves his Shih-Tsu, Gigi, his friend and companion.

Stuart was a long-time resident of the Santa Clara Valley. He owned and operated Stuart’s Apparel for 30 years. He was an active member of the San Jose Rotary Club, past-president of VIA Services, a member of Temple Emanu-El and the Rinconada Country Club. He proudly served during WWII in the US Army. Stuart was an avid golfer and bridge player. He will be remembered as a loving husband, caring father and grandfather and wonderful friend to many.

Services were held on Wednesday, January 27, at Temple EmanuEl. A committal service followed at Oak Hill Memorial Park’s Home of Peace. Contributions in his memory may be made to VIA Services, 2851 Park Avenue, Santa Clara, CA 95050 RITA KERTZMAN [September 6, 1931-January 15, 2010] Rita Kertzman was born in Toronto, Canada. She met her husband Izzy in 1953 and they married shortly thereafter. Fifty-seven years later, their partnership was still vibrant. Her husband sat with her every day until she took her last breath.

Their daughters Andrea and Marla were born in Cleveland. They were healthy and strong and in gratitude for them, Rita dedicated her spare time to volunteering for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. She started camps for children with this disease and was recognized by Jerry Lewis for her accomplishments.

In the early sixties, Rita began taking in foster babies in Cleveland.

After they moved to California, the Kertzmans continued to take care of children in need of homes. There were often three or more babies in the house, and they would take in sick babies as well. One such baby soon became an official member of the family. When David came to live with Rita and Izzy, they took one look at him and decided to adopt him. Andrea and Marla had a brother.

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In addition to babies, Rita started bringing in older kids who had diverse needs and problems, special needs and emotional challenges. Some of the children stayed for years. She only stopped doing this work at the beginning of this century.

As a child, Rita used to knit all kinds of clothing for people in need such as soldiers during WWII, and she also knit things for the Red Cross. In the early 1980s she was given the first Martin Luther King Jr. Award in Santa Clara County, presented to her

by Senator Norman Minneta.

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www.jvalley.org • JCN • March 2010

obituaries Rita is mourned by her husband Isadore Kertzman, daughters Andrea (Dave) Ammerman, Marla Kertzman and son David Kertzman and her grandsons Aaron, Micah and Samuel Ammerman who saw their grandmother as a second mother. She is also mourned by members of the Congregation Beth David where she and her family belonged. She waged a courageous battle with cancer and defied all professional medical expectations. She seemed to hold on to life to hear about the B’nai Mitzvot of her twin grandsons, Micah and Samuel Ammerman. Their older brother, Aaron reported to her that they had done well.

Services were held at Oak Hill on January 17. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Rama Strod Fund at Congregation Beth David, 19700 Prospect, Saratoga, CA 95070.

playing the sport, and when he was living in New York, played for a semi-professional team.

Sol was the first of three generations of Segall hockey players, as all four of his sons and three of his grandsons followed him into the sport.

Sol and Sylvia raised their five children in Detroit where he was also active in the Michigan Amateur Hockey Association, which awarded him Man of the Year in 1971.

He served as president of the association and owned a junior hockey team that won the U.S. national championship.

He was also a proud member of the Perfection Lodge No. 486, F. & A. M.

ROSLYN NOVAK [December 15, 1914 - February 15, 2010] Roslyn Novak (nee Stein) was born in the Bronx, New York. She was a graduate of Hunter College (Phi Beta Cappa) and received a Masters Degree from Columbia University in History. She spent her professional career as a high school history teacher. Following the birth of her children, Leslie, Bonnie and Ken, Roslyn emerged as the consummate community volunteer. She was extremely involved in the community and politics serving as the president of the League of Women Voters from the State of New York and the assistant Urban Renewal commissioner in the city of White Plains. She also served as a adult literacy tutor in West Palm Beach, Florida. Roslyn was a master bridge player and was known for teaching duplicate bridge into her 90’s. Roslyn was extraordinarily intelligent, politically knowledgeable and financial astute. She passed away surrounded by loved ones at the age of 95. She was predeceased by her husbands, Bernard Slavitt and Dr. Al Novak, and her son, Kenneth Slavitt (2005). She is survived by her daughters, Leslie Goldress (Irwin) and Bonnie Slavitt Moore (Jack Moore) and daughterin-law, Susannah Stuart and seven grandchildren, Jenny Goldress (Andrew Eisenberger), Gadi Goldress (Shira) and Bracha Goldress, Jessica Black , Danielle Drew (Hank), Beth Berman, Austin Moore (Janine), and nine great grandchildren: Maitel, Elan and Daphna Eisenberger; Aryeh, Yaira and Eitan Goldress; Sam and Rebecca Black; and Lillian Moore.

She will be greatly missed.

The family requests donations be made in Roslyn’s memory to Hillel of Silicon Valley’s Capital Campaign, Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley Annual Campaign, Congregation Beth David Endowment Fund and Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center.

SOLOMON KIEF SEGALL [August 16, 1916-January 5, 2010] Solomon Kief Segall, born and raised in Detroit, spent the past 17 years in the San Jose, area. Throughout his life spent many a night and early morning playing, coaching and watching ice hockey.

In 1993, after years of shuttling between homes in West Bloomfield, Mich. and Texas, Sol and Sylvia moved to San Jose to be near their son Mark and his family.

Sol, who was predeceased by his daughter, Marcia, is survived by his wife, Sylvia, of San Jose, and their four sons: Dr. Mark (and Nikki) Segall of Los Gatos, Calif.; Dr. Neil (and Laurie) Segall of Denver, Colo.; Steve (and Sarah) Segall of Olympia, Wash.; and Ron (and Joan) Segall of Farmington Hills, Mich.

He is also survived by 11 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. A private funeral service was held at Home of Peace Cemetery in San Jose.

BEVERLY SLATER [August 27, 1940-February 12, 2010} Beverly Slater was born in Pittsburgh where she lived until she and her husband, Dr. Harvey Slater, moved to San Jose to be closer to their daughter and son on the West Coast. Beverly had developed close personal friends in Pittsburgh and was known as a consummate hostess. She welcomed friends and family and often opened her home to medical students and interns who worked with her husband. When they moved to The Villages in 2008, Bev quickly found a community including maj groups and film classes. She also adopted a special pet Zoe that she especially enjoyed.

Bev passed suddenly in Toronto, Ontario where she had traveled for her granddaughter’s Julia’s, bat mitzvah. She is survived by Harvey, her husband of almost 48 years, and her daughter, Susan Slater Ellenberg (Steve), sons David Michael Slater (Heidi) and Adam Laibe Slater, and grandchildren Zachary Ellenberg, Molly Ellenberg, Naava Ellenberg, Julia Slater, Audrey Slater and Max Slater. If friends wish to honor Bev's memory with a donation, the family suggests either Yavneh Day School (14855 Oka Road, San Jose, CA 95032) or Congregation Sinai (1532 Willowbrae Avenue, San Jose, CA 95125).

The son of Romanian and Polish Jewish immigrants, Isadore Segall and Lillian Kief, Sol grew up during the Depression. He attended Central High School in Detroit and later enlisted in the U.S. Army, attaining the rank of sergeant and serving during World War II. In April, 1940 Sol married Sylvia Stangel, of Brooklyn, N.Y. An only child, he had moved to the Bensonhurst section of Brooklyn with his parents for his last year of high school, when his dad got a job working on a New York City subway system.

Sol and Sylvia met at a Chanukah party, and when she was 18 years old, they eloped.

Her parents didn’t want them to marry because she was so young. They would have celebrated their seventieth anniversary this April.

They lived throughout the East Coast during World War II, as Sol was transferred to various military bases, taking them to Chicago, Florida, Baltimore, Washington D.C., and New York.

During that time, their first of five children, and their only daughter, Marcia, was born, followed by their first of four sons, Mark.

After the war ended, while working for a dry egg company in New York, he helped ship guns illegally to Israel, supplying pistols to the Jewish army in its War of Independence.

Although he never attended college, Solomon was a smart, talented man who worked in communications for the Army. Most of his professional career was spent as a co-owner at Posture Mattress Co. in Detroit, a franchise of Spring Air Mattress.

But his passion, as anyone who knew him could attest, was ice hockey. He grew up

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March 2010 • JCN • www.jvalley.org

Jewish Professional Directory Attorneys

Events

Attorneys

Brooke A. Blecher

Minda B. Parrish

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Blecher & Hubbell 1500 E. Hamilton Ave., Ste., 201 Campbell, CA 95008 (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.

14500 Big Basin Way, Suite D, Saratoga, CA 95070 (408) 741-3500 minda@parrishlaw.net Estate Planning, Probate, Elder Law

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Philip L. Hammer Hoge, Fenton, Jones & Appel 60 S. Market St., Ste. 1400 San Jose, CA 95113 (408) 287-9501 plh@hogefenton.com www.hogefenton.com/hammer.html Specializing in complex family law matters. Certified Specialist in Family Law, State Bar of CA; Fellow, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.

David J. Hofmann Hoge, Fenton, Jones & Appel 60 S. Market St., Ste. 1400 San Jose, CA 95113 (408) 287-9501 djh@hogefenton.com www.hogefenton.com/hofmann.html Specializing in commercial and residential real estate transactions & finance

David S. Howard Hoge, Fenton, Jones & Appel 60 S. Market St., Ste. 1400 San Jose, CA 95113 (408) 287-9501 dsh@hogefenton.com www.hogefenton.com/howard.html Specializing in complex taxation, corporate strategy, and business succession planning; Jewish Federation Silicon Valley Financial Advisory Board.

Steven D. Siner Hoge, Fenton, Jones & Appel 60 S. Market St., Ste. 1400 San Jose, CA 95113 (408) 287-9501 sds@hogefenton.com www.hogefenton.com/siner.html Specializing in complex business transactions, estate planning, and family business succession planning.

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

Financial Services

Lynne R. Snyder 101 Church St., Suite 7, Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 354-5590 Adoption, Custody, Dissolutions, Guardianship, Juvenile Court, Paternity

Shannon Stein Law Offices of Shannon Stein 438 South Murphy Avenue Sunnyvale, CA 94086 (408) 774-9097 shannon@shannonsteinlaw.com www.shannonsteinlaw.com Family Law Attorney, specializing in dissolutions, child custody, child support, mediation, restraining orders, limited scope representation, post-judgement issues.

Carol Elias Zolla 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.

Cantor-Educator Dr. Itzhak Emanuel 27 Eucalyptus Lane San Rafael, CA 94901 Phone/Fax (415) 453-3899 Cell (415) 218-1295 All Life cycle ceremonies-special events, Spiritual Leadership; Cantorial-Liturgical skills; Hebrew-Jewish studies

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

Law Office of Derryl H. Molina “Trust is our business!”

1142 S. Winchester Blvd., Ste. B San Jose, CA 95128 (408) 244-4992 attderryl@comcast.net www.fulllifecareplanner.com Estate Planning, Probate, and Elder Law. Mediation Facilitor.

Werba & Davis Advisory Services, LLC 3055 Olin Ave., Suite 2000 San Jose, CA 95128 (408) 260-3109 (408) 423-0209 Fee-Based Portfolio Management since 1990.

Securities offered through Loring Ward Securities Inc., member FINRA/SIPC

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.

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

Real Estate

Orna Yomtoubian 408-253-2250 888-Do0-Fees 888-360-3337 (Toll Free) Orna@ORNA.com ORNA.com No Fee Loan, Free Appraisal, Free Notary. aDiscountMortgage.com. No Upfront Fees.

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Commercial Real Estate

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

Alan Werba, CPA, CFP

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

Dentist 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.

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TOGETHER, WE ARE THE JEWISH FEDERATION

congregation beth david congregation shir hadash congregation sinai Our Passover traditions compel us to act as though we ourselves were taken out of slavery in Egypt.

Given current conditions, some of us may feel like we are enslaved by our financial situations.

Still others are fortunate to be able to provide for people in need and in crisis.

If you need help, the community is here to support you. If you can help, please donate to the Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley. With your donations, we support caring local organizations and their programs. We are the community. We are you.

Support the Federation Annual Campaign. To donate, go to www.jvalley.org or call 408.358.3033.

THIS PASSOVER, LET’S WORK TOGETHER

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