Etzetera - December 2016

TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM Inside ETZetera December 2016 Kislev/Tevet 5777 COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TODAH Calendar TZEDAKAH3HAVERIM RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY Contributions FRIENDSHIP5 TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVSherri Finn, Temple President ERIM TODAH TEMPLE ETZ 7 RABAH Upcoming Events president@templeetzchaim.org CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP ear Congregation, TIKKUN OLAM TORAH 12 LEARNING Hanukkah Boutique

Thank you. Thank you to all of you for your commitment to our FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMsynagogue through your attendance at all of our remarkable classes, programs, MUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM lectures, religious services, community outreach and holidays.

LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH Thank you to those who have contributed to our High Holiday Kol Nidre Appeal. With HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP your monetary donations, you are helping Temple Etz Chaim maintain our outstanding TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH religious center and exceptional educational facility for all who enter our doors.

FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH The Board of Directors, clergy and staff are so grateful to all of you for your RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COM- MUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM continued support. As I have stated in the past, our future doesn’t just happen, rather, it LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH is shaped by our visions and dreams, and by the actions and steps that we take today. As HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE partners in building our strong community, your commitment enhances and expands our ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING great legacy.

TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM 1080 E. Janss Rd. Thousand Oaks Ca 91360

(805) 497-6891 www.templeetzchaim.org TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM

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Thank You for Your Commitment

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From the Rabbi

Messages of Hanukkah Rabbi Richard Spiegel rabbi@templeetzchaim.org

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hree years ago, the first light of Hanukkah was on Thanksgiving Eve. This year Hanukkah is much later – the first light is on Christmas Eve and the last night is New Year’s Eve (what a celebration!). Truthfully, whenever Hanukkah arrives, it is a wonderful time for all of us with glowing candles, delicious latkes, lively singing, and gifts bringing happiness to children and adults of all ages.

I have always thought that Hanukkah has two very distinct sides to it. The first is obvious. This a time of rejoicing and of fun. In this regard, Hanukkah is a pleasant holiday with beautiful customs and rituals which we all enjoy.

The other side is not spoken of as often but is extremely meaningful and important as well. Hanukkah, with all of its frivolity, is a very serious holiday. It commemorates a courageous fight for religious freedom – the first of its kind. It reminds us of the need to stand up against tyranny even when it is a frightening endeavor.

Hanukkah teaches us that if we want to lead a good life, then we must live life bravely.

To me, this second message of Hanukkah, this serious message of standing up against evil, is especially important for our day and

age. The 21st century has begun in a turbulent way. Even as we are wary in the United States, terrorist actions and threats are occurring around the world. The city of Paris, once seen as the center of culture and civilization, is now a city with a population that lives in fear. All over Europe and Asia, and yes, in our own country, people wonder and worry about what is coming next.

In Israel, where our brothers and sisters view themselves as modern-day Maccabees, the fight against terrorism has been going on for decades. In Israel, summoning up courage and bravery to face the world is an everyday occurrence.

In a world in which acts of terror take place so often, it is easy to succumb to feelings of despair. The festival of Hanukkah is arriving to teach us that we must not allow this to happen. Instead, we must be resolute and determined to face whatever challenges come our way. Long ago, our ancestors showed courage and strength when the life they knew was in danger. We can do no less.

I hope that this Hanukkah will be a meaningful, uplifting, and joyous holiday for us all. Linda joins me in wishing you and your family a happy, healthy Hanukkah.

From the Desk of the executive director

Beginning Our New Season Together Laurence Harris, Executive Director laurence@templeetzchaim.org

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ince the summer ended, we have experienced the High Holidays together, watched the baseball World Series (congratulations to the Chicago Cubs), moved on from the Presidential elections and are now looking forward to Thanksgiving and Hanukkah. Here at Temple Etz Chaim, we continue to strive to show you the value of being part of our Jewish family. Temple Etz Chaim is more than a synagogue - it’s a Jewish Neighborhood! Let me explain to you how you can experience the joy of our caring community.

Mitzvah Day - Sunday, November 6th, our congregational family broke a 20-year Temple RECORD – by donating a total 115 pints of blood to save lives for people in need! (The last record was 112 about 6 years ago). This is what a caring community is all about!

Birth Announcements – It gives us all a sense of excitement when a baby is born that is connected to our Temple Family. Whether you are a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle or cousin, sharing the news and receiving a “mazel tov” email from our fellow congregants makes us feel good! Please let us know when you have a new member of your family enter this world and write an email congratulating the family – It REALLY makes a difference.

Be a member mensch - Want to help make Your Jewish Neighborhood

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even better? Be a member mensch! Invite your non-member family and friends to experience all that Temple Etz Chaim has to offer, and encourage them to join! Mention your love for Temple Etz Chaim when you’re out in the community. Have a prospective member lead? Please introduce them to our new membership Vice President – Kendra Jones membership@templeetzchaim.org and take pride in helping to connect others with our caring community.

Havurot - Want to help make Your Jewish Neighborhood feel a little cozier? Consider joining a Havurah or already in a Havurah? Please contact me at laurence@templeetzchaim.org with any questions, ideas, milestones, and photos. We’d love to hear from you!

Adult B’nai Mitzvah Program – Sunday mornings-9:45-11:15am –beginning December 4th- It’s never too late for Jewish adults to acquire the knowledge and skills that enable you to participate in congregational worship. Many of our adult members have taken on the responsibility and joy of preparing to become Bar or Bat mitzvah.

We are now beginning our new season (Hebrew year 5777) together.

Please review all the innovative and exciting programs, services and activities that we are offering you during December and throughout 2017......Join us and Welcome to our Jewish Neighborhood!

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Calendar

Temple Etz Chaim Calendar of Events sunday

monday

D ecember 2016

tuesday

wednesday

thursday

Rosh Hodesh

It is a mitzvah to comfort those in mourning Join our Weekly Minyan Every Monday and Wednesday 7:15 pm Sundays 8:30 am

1 5 PM Bingo

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8:30 AM Minyan 9:30 AM Hanukkah Boutique 9:45 AM Adult B’nai Mitzvah class begins

7:15 PM Minyan

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8:30 AM Minyan

7:15 PM Minyan

10 AM Tuesdays with Rabbi

9:30 AM Bereavement Support Group 7 PM Choir 7:15 PM Minyan

5 PM Bingo

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7:15 PM Minyan 7:00 PM Book Club Meeting 7:45 PM Men’s Club Board Meeting 7:30 PM Executive Board Meeting

7 PM Choir 7:15 PM Minyan

8:30 AM Minyan

Hanukkah Second Candle

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8:30 AM Minyan

Hanukkah Third Candle

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Temple Office and Preschool Closed 7:15 PM Minyan

6 10 AM Tuesdays with Rabbi 4 PM Shop ‘Til You Drop at Raffia Boutique 7:30 PM Women of TEC Board Meeting

Hanukkah Fourth Candle

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7 7 PM Choir 7:15 PM Minyan

Hanukkah Fifth Candle

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9:30 AM Bereavement Support Group 6:30 PM Community Menorah Lighting 7 PM Choir 7:15 PM Minyan

Dec. 4th - 9:30 am to 2:00 pm Women of TEC Gift Shop Sale and Hanukkah Boutique.

Gift Shop items at least 25% off and some special markdowns

friday

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Candle Lighting 4:27 PM

saturday

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Toledot Genesis 25:19-28:9 H: Malachi 1:1-2:7

7 PM Say Shalom 10 AM Shabbat Services 7:30 PM Shabbat Services

Candle Lighting 4:28 PM

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Vayetze Genesis 28:10-32:3 H: Hosea 12:13-14:10

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Vayishlah Genesis 32:4-36:43 H: Obadiah 1:1-21

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Erev Hanukkah First Candle Vayeshev Genesis 37:1-40:23 H: Amos 2:6-3:8

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5 PM Bingo 5:45 PM Religious School 6th Grade 10 AM Shabbat Services 8:00 PM Men’s Club Event at MB2 Shabbat Dinner 10 AM Shabbat Morning 7:30 PM Shabbat Services J.A.M. in the Wolfson

Candle Lighting 4:30 PM

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6:15 PM Preschool Tot Shabbat 10 AM Shabbat Services 7:30 PM Shabbat Services

Candle Lighting 4:33 PM

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5 PM Bingo 7:30 PM Shabbat Services

10 AM Shabbat Services

Hanukkah Sixth Candle

29 5 PM Bingo

Hanukkah Seventh Candle Candle Lighting 4:38 PM

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7:30 PM Shabbat Services

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New Year’s Eve Hanukkah Eighth Candle Miketz Genesis 41:1-44:17 Maftir: Numbers 7:54-8:4 H: I Kings 7:40-50

10 AM Shabbat Services

Scholastic Book Fair Benefit the Preschool Wolfson Auditorium Dec. 4th - 8th

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*Times for events may change after publication date; visit www.templeetzchaim.org for the most up-to-date event information.

Save the date

TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY TIKKUN OLAM thLEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP January 6 6:00 PMTZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH Daniel MFRIENDSHIP att Havdallah and H ot D ogs LEARNING TORAH FUN TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY TIKKUN OLAM TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITYSFRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING New Member cholar-in-residence FUN TZEDAKAH FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH Say Shalom HAVERIM Dinner TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN January 28th , 5:30 PM All are Welcome HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH $7 per TIKKUN person FebruaryFUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH NoRABAH Charge TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH RSVP by 1/13/17 TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH 10-12, 2017 RSVP Required COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM FRIENDSHIP TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY 3 TIKKUN OLAM LEARNING TORAH FUN TZEDAKAH HAVERIM TODAH RABAH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP

women of Tec & Z’havah

Please Continue Your Support of Women of TEC Elissa Lazarus, President, Women of TEC womenoftec@templeetzchaim.org

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ecember brings us the joyous holiday of Hanukkah.

As you receive this December Bulletin, Cindy Scherr and her team will be putting the finishing touches on our annual Hanukkah Boutique. Find the perfect gift for friends and loved ones on Sunday, December 4 from 9:30 until about 3. Lots of great vendors and even food for sale.

To continue the theme of shopping, Women of TEC will have a Shop Till You Drop evening at Raffia Boutique in Westlake Village from 4-8 P.M. on December 6. Treat yourself to a new outfit or buy a gift for someone. Raffia extends this theme for the month of December. If you can’t make it on the 6th, stop by during December, mention Women of TEC and a percentage of the sale will come back to us.

Thanks to Program VP Wendy Halpert and her committee for organizing this.

Please support Women of TEC as we strive to continue our good work for TEC with our sponsorship of Onegs and Kiddushes, scholarships for Jewish overnight camps and Israel trips, monetary contributions to ECE, Religious School and

Youth and TEC itself, managing a fabulous Judaica Shop, etc. etc. etc.

Looking forward to a great 2017!

Men’s Club

Men’s Club Signature Events Mark Zucherman, Men’s Club President mensclub@templeetzchaim.org

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would like to thank everyone who helped and participated in our October and November Men’s Club events including making our great Sukkah for the entire Temple and TEC community to enjoy, and one of our Signature Membership Events “Steak/Scotch/Torah in the Sukkah.”

I especially want to welcome and thank those who joined us for the first time, and Rabbi Spiegel for leading a great discussion under the Sukkah. December promises to be a busy and fun time for your Men’s Club as we celebrate the holiday of miracles Hanukkah. This includes our traditional role of serving Latkes at TEC community menorah lighting (check our Calendar or TEC website for location and details). Be sure to mark your calendars in January for family fun at our Havdalah and Bowling event on Jan 14th and Sunday Brunch with featured speaker Rabbi Ed Feinstein (Jan 22nd). And don’t forget our signature Scholar-in-Residence weekend Feb 10th-12th with the renowned Scholar and Professor Daniel Matt on “How the Kabbalah Understands God, Torah, and Creation.”

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WOMEN OF TEC New Year’s CELEBRATION BRING IN THE NEW YEAR WOMEN OF TEC STYLE WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4TH 7:00 PM DINNER, DRINKS AND CHIPS CISCO’S MEXICAN RESTURANT PICK-UP-YOUR-OWN TAB DESSERT’S ON WOTEC RSVP to SHIRLEY LIPKIN: 805-405-2678

Contributions to our synagogue We record with sincere appreciation the following donations:

Rabbi Richard Spiegel Discretionary Fund

In Memory of David Munowitch’s Mother, Betty and Bob Zonshine In Memory of Mort Margolis, Betty and Bob Zonshine Congratulations, Congratulations and Mazel Tov! October Birthdays are the Best (Linda), Debra and Jay Levine In Honor of Rabbi and Linda, Mazel Tov to the Spiegel Family on the birth of Cooper, Nomi Freed Rabbi Spiegel, Thanks for my Rosh Hashanah Honor, Herb Wexler Phyllis Dankberg, Condolences on the loss of Sam, Liz and Ron Groden Rabbi Spiegel, In Appreciation, Maurie Samson and Marilyn Tiller In Memory of Felicita Saiez, Rebeccah Schwartz Rabbi Spiegel, In appreciation, Leon Pinsker In Memory of Albert Horowitz, Seymour Horowitz In Memory of Max Borman, Harvey Mahler In Memory of William Harold Sherman, Sid Sherman Wendy and Peter Margolis, Our Sympathy on your loss, Marty and Donna Lichtmann In Honor of Tess and Bruce Wilkoff, Lou Schotland Rabbi Spiegel, Mazel Tov on your new Grandchild, Debbie and Les Feldman Rabbi Spiegel, Thank you for your support, Phyllis Dankberg Rebeccah and David Schwartz and Family, We are sorry for your loss, Susan and Alan Flaschner In Honor of the Schulman Family, Sandra Schulman In Memory of Mollie Kroin, Rose Frederick-Horowitz In Memory of Martin Kroin, Rose Frederick-Horowitz In Memory of Annabel Berk, Errol Berk In Memory of Frances Becker, Marc and Michelle Tuchman Rabbi and Linda Spiegel, Mazel Tov on the birth of Cooper William, Bonnie Rothman In Memory of Rose Silverman, Kevin Axelrad Rabbi Spiegel, Thank you for my Sukkot honor, Herb Wexler In Memory of Florence Rosenberg, Joy Rosenberg In Honor of Roni Rosen, On your special birthday, Susan and Alan Flaschner In Memory of Frida Edelman, David Wank Rabbi and Linda Spiegel, Mazel Tov, Neil and Carolyn Bordofsky

In Memory of Samuel Neustadt, Debra Levine Congratulations Rick and Barbara Rosenberg, Debra Levine Congratulations Wendy and Peter Margolis, Debra Levine In Memory of Harry Waters, Hattie Wolf In Memory of Matt Wolf, Hattie Wolf In Memory of Jacob Lavine, Anne Weiss In Memory of Israel Weinstein, Sofia Kobrin In Memory of Esther Natkowitz, Marvin Natlin In Memory of Esther Sloate Comis, Stuart Comis In Memory of Samuel Jacob Comis, Stuart Comis In Memory of Cecile Benjamin, Edith Benjamin In Memory of Hector Cornecio, Sofia Kobrin In Memory of Ina Levine, Debra Levine In Memory of Morton Margolis, Gloria and Irwin Katz In Memory of Leonard Schwartz, David Schwartz In Memory of Louis Miller, Tziporah Lutzker In Memory of Leah Yodkovik, David Yodkovik In Memory of Morton Margolis, Jay and Debra Levine

Ritual Fund

In Memory of Ruth Nathanson, Lois Girsky Rebeccah and David Schwartz, Condolences, Nomi Freed

Religious School Fund

In Memory of Alfred Shapiro, Barbara Budish Roni Rosen, Happy special birthday, Elissa and Steven Lazarus In Memory of Ira Goldfinger, Robin Goldfinger In Memory of Sharif Moradian, Nasser Moradian In Memory of Sharon May Friedman, Steven Friedman In Memory of Herbert Friedlander, Carl Friedlander

Elisa Feldman Memorial Religious School Scholarship Fund

In Loving Memory of Elisa Feldman, Andrea, Mike, Kevin and Steven In Memory of Morton Margolis, Nomi Freed Congratulations Peter and Wendy Margolis, Nomi Freed In Honor of Michael and Karen Roberts, Nomi Freed In Honor of Barbara and Rick Rosenberg, Nomi Freed The Schwartz Family, We are sorry for your loss, Debbie and Les Feldman In Memory of Lillian Klapper, Bonnie Goldenberg Hazzan Pablo Duek Discretionary Fund Phyllis Dankberg, Condolences, Barbara and Rick In Memory of Harriet Wise Oberman, Robin Oberman Rosenberg In Memory of Alfred Morris, Liz Groden In Memory of Bette Cohen, Ben Racowsky In Appreciation, Thank you again for a beautiful service, The In Memory of Al Smith, Lynne Rosen Ephraim and Mangel Families The Elson Family, Mazel Tov, Judy Sneed Hazzan Pablo, In appreciation, Leon Pinsker Dave Munowitch, With sympathy, Sheri and Jeff In Memory of Annabel Berk, Errol Berk Schoenwald In Memory of Rose Axelrad, Kevin Axelrad Peter Margolis, With sympathy, Sheri and Jeff Schoenwald Peter Margolis, Sincere condolences, Janice Orlowski Richard Lessman, Get well soon, Sheri and Jeff Phyllis Dankberg, Sincere condolences, Janice Orlowski Schoenwald Hazzan Pablo, With thanks, Herb Wexler In Memory of Bernard Axelrad, Kevin Axelrod In Memory of Morris Ratzan, Jerome Ratzan In Memory of Sender Orlin, Sarah Orlin In Memory of Saul Dankberg, Miriam Rubinstein Roni Rosen, Happy 70th Birthday, Barbara Rosenberg In Memory of Mike Brooks, Sandra Levy Peter Margolis, With sympathy, Debbie and Les Feldman In Memory of Norbert Jallings, Judy Sneed Wendy and Peter Margolis, Mazel Tov, Debbie and Les In Memory of Jimmy Cohen, Freda Cohen Feldman In Memory of Beatrice Treisman, Robin Oberman Dave Munowitch, With sympathy, Debbie and Les Hazzan Pablo, With thanks, the Greenberg Family Feldman In Memory of Marilyn Grodman, Stewart Grodman Barbara and Richard Rosenberg, Mazel Tov, Debbie and In Honor of New Granddaughter, Stewart Grodman Les Feldman Hazzan Pablo, With appreciation, Phyllis Dankberg Peter and Wendy Margolis, Condolences, Liz and Ron Jotkowitz Camp Ramah Scholarship Fund Groden In Memory of Max and Molly Jotkowitz, Amy Scop In Memory of Fania Orlowski, Jan Orlowski In Memory of Max and Molly Jotkowitz, Janice

Temple General Fund

In Memory of Ric Landau, An amazing, one-of-a-kind man, Debra Levine

Perlman In Memory of Ermiene Mallinger, Mollie Helfand In Memory of Gerald Hayman, Ann Hayman

In Memory of Jack Kern, Harvey Kern In Memory of Pauline Shechter, Rabbi Jack Shechter Tina Degann and Family, In memory of your loving mother, Edie, Rosalie Fromberg

Dunaier Music Fund

In Memory of In Memory of In Memory of In Memory of In Memory of In Memory of In Memory of

Julia Deutsch, Frances Deutsch Thelma Smith, Lynne Rosen Robert Seaver, Barbara Freeman Herma Silverstein, Gari and Richard Saly William Deutsch, Frances Deutsch Frederick Crawford, Brenda Friedman Ruth Rosen, Stan Rosen

Women of TEC Torah Fund

Condolences to Phyllis Dankberg, Neil and Carolyn Bordofsky In Memory of Harold Goldwasser, Ann Goldwasser In Memory of Saul Dankberg, David, Carolyn and Jonah Glass Rick and Barbara Rosenberg, Mazel Tov, Neil and Carolyn Bordofsky

Early Childhood Education Fund

In Memory of Evelyn Levin, Joyce Goldberg In Memory of Sharon Hommel, Joyce Goldberg Margarit Rothman and Family, With sympathy, Lynne and Stan Rosen In Memory of Minnie Marcus, Bruce Cohen

Tzedakah Fund

In Memory of Maurice Silverman, Kevin Axelrad In Loving Memory of Mary & Michael Wexler, Herb Wexler In Memory of Frances Greenholt, Marie Rubens

USY Youth and Scholarship Fund In Memory of In Memory of In Memory of In Memory of In Memory of In Memory of In Memory of

Hersz Orensztein, Denise Rusiecki Jeannette Spitzer, Leonard Spitzer Bernard Corwin, Lorraine Corwin Amy Corwin, Lorraine Corwin Celia Cohen, Bruce Cohen Charles Orensztein, Denise Rusiecki Jacques Orensztein, Denise Rusiecki

Fienberg-Lerner Chapel Minyan Fund

In Memory of George Winterstein, Susan Goldberg

Barbara and Harvey scherr memorial fund

In Memory of Ceila Scherr Avol, Marshall Scherr

Lipnick Religious School Scholarship Fund

In Memory of Meyer Levin, Barbara Shannon In Memory of Esther Rebecca Goldberg, Susan Goldberg

Women of TEC Tribute Cards

The Goldberg family, In memory of Leonard Goldberg, Shirley and Allen Lipkin Jeff/Paul Lipkin, Get well, Shirley and Allen Lipkin Phyllis Dankberg, Loss of husband, Shirley and Allen Lipkin Ray Albert, In memory of Deanna Albert, Shirley and Allen Lipkin Jeff and Lya Weiss, Get Well, Shirley and Allen Lipkin Phyllis Dankberg, Loss of husband, Barbara and Al Ungar Peter Margolis, Loss of father, Barbara and Al Ungar Phyllis Dankberg, Loss of husband, Gloria Semer Wendy and Peter Margolis, Birth of grandson, Elissa and Steve Lazarus Rabbi and Linda Spiegel, Birth of grandson, Elissa and Steve Lazarus

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Preschool

Holiday Traditions Celebrated Debbie Blumenthal, Director of Early Childhood Education debbieb@templeetzchaim.org

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his month in preschool we have so many things to look forward to. Our annual Scholastic Book Fair begins on Sunday, December 4th at 9:00 a.m. Please join us for donuts and orange juice at our “grand opening”.

The Book Fair will be open through Thursday, December 8th.

If you are looking for great books for all ages at affordable prices, come visit with us in the Wolfson Auditorium. I’m happy to recommend our staff favorites to you! Each year, the teachers are grateful for the many new books given to their classrooms from the generous parents who shop at our annual Scholastic Book Fair! Reading is the most important skill that students develop during their early years. Preschool is the optimal period of time for such learning to begin. Reading to your children every day is a great way to develop reading and literacy skills.

The preschool classrooms will be busy retelling the stories of Hanukkah, Judah Maccabee, and holiday traditions.

Each classroom will be celebrating with their families and, of course, eating lots of latkes!

We are offering Winter Camp during the school break.

The camp will be open December 19-23rd and December 2730. The deadline to register is December 9th. Call the school office for information. Happy Hanukkah and Happy 2017 to everyone!

USY

Youth Department Fun! Shannon Tepfer, Youth Director youth@templeetzchaim.org

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he Youth Department is where the fun is! We have something for all kids in K-12th grade (Machar K-2nd, Kadima 3rd-6th, Jr USY 7th-8th, and Sr USy 9th-12th). We are looking forward to being a part of your child’s journey in building lifelong friendships, Jewish identity, and community here at TEC. Don’t wait, sign up now!

Need community service credit? Join our Hayom program and get a chance to work with kids here at TEC. You’ll learn programing, leadership, problem solving, and have a good time too!

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December Events: 12/4: 2pm - Jr/Sr teen get together at the Iceoplex in Simi Valley and Subzero 12/6: 6:15pm - Kadima 12/13: 6:15pm - Jr/Sr Hanukkah Lounge 12/16: Shabbat Dinner @ a USYer’s home!! RSVP now for a night of fun!

12/17: USY Winter Formal @CBI Tustin 7pm 12/18: Machar -11:30am-1:30pm in the Social Hall 12/28: Janss Market Candle Lighting and USY Fundraiser at Sharky’s and Panera Bread - up to 20% of proceeds will be donated.

upcoming events

TEC Book Club

Say Shalom

12/20/2016 7:00 PM Book Club

12/02/2016 7:00 PM Remembrance Hall

December: Our Souls at Night by Kent Haruf For information about TEC Book Club, contact Liz Groden via the Temple Office at (805) 497-6891 or adult-ed@templeetzchaim.org.

Come say “Shalom” before Shabbat services; be our guest, enjoy a nosh, a glass of wine and lively conversation with a new friend, an old friend, or a Board member.

Services following at 7:30 PM in the Sanctuary.

Menorah Lighting

Hanukkah Boutique

12/28/2016 6:30 PM Janss Marketplace

12/04/16 9:30 AM Social Hall Shop. Nosh. Shmooze. Come shop and enjoy a wonderful selection of clothing, accessories, jewelry, Judaica, candles and scents, bags, hand-made gifts, housewares, and food.

New Member Shabbat Dinner

Adult B’Nai Mitzvah Class

01/06/2017 6:00 PM Remembrance Hall

12/04/16 9:45 AM Library This class begins December 4, 2016 and will meet Sunday mornings, 9:45 AM to 11:15 AM. The class will conclude with a beautiful Adult B’Nai Mitzvah Shabbat morning Service in May 2018. $200 course fee. Please contact Rebecca at 805-497-6891 or rebecca@templeetzchaim.org for more information.

01/15/2017 10:00 AM Social Hall

12/06/16 4:00 PM Raffia Boutique Shop ‘til you drop, Women of TEC Style. Please join us for shopping, wine, snacks, and fun! Bring your friends.

31133 Via Colinas, #103, Westlake Village.

Shabbat Morning J.A.M. 12/10/2016 10:00 AM Wolfson Join us at this NEW Shabbat morning program focused on families with children ages 2-8 led by Hazzan Pablo Duek and educator Steve Ormond. We will participate in singing, dancing, storytelling and more! you would prefer delivery of

You are invited to join us for Say Shalom New Member Dinner - a lovely buffet of Israeli cuisine. Services following at 7:30 PM in the Sanctuary. All new members will receive an honor.

There is no charge for this event, but R.S.V.P. is a must!

R.S.V.P. by Thursday, December 22nd.

Call Laurence in the TEC office (805) 497-6891, or email sharimark@templeetzchaim.org.

Bingo Marathon

Shop ‘til You Drop

If

Join us as we celebrate the 5th night of Hanukkah with a menorah lighting at Janss Marketplace. Religious School students will sing, Men’s Club will serve latkes, and gelt and dreidels will be handed out.

Etzetera

Join us for the amazing annual Bingo Marathon held on Martin Luther King, Jr. Weekend. An international-style lunch provided free with Marathon Buy-in.

Reserve your seat early and save money.

Havdallah and Hot Dogs 01/28/2017 5:30 PM Social Hall This year’s theme, “reJEWvenation…be your Jewish Self.”

Featuring exciting crafts and activities. Enjoy Havdallah together & a Hot dog dinner, too! $7.00 per person. RSVP by Friday, January 13 , 2017.

Your payment confirms your reservation! by email, please email dena@templeetzchaim.org.

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Religious School

Dedication to Tikkun Olam Joyce Bronstein, Director of Religious School Eduation Joyce@templeetzchaim.org

D

uring Hanukkah many people exchange gifts. I would sincerely like to thank all of our Religious School Parent Volunteers for your generous gift of time that supports so many school endeavors. Your commitment to help the Religious School is fantastic and a great “present” to the students, teachers, and me. Because of your efforts, Temple Etz Chaim Religious School students are able to have snack during break, “The Party,” 3rd grade personalized Siddur book covers, 4th grade decorated tallit, bagels, Passover Seder set up for students in grades k-10, a Lag B’Omer bbq, and so much more! Our programs run smoothly in large part because of your donation of time and effort.

Thank you parents for sending your children to Religious School. Our students are a wonderful gift to the staff and I. Students have a positive outlook of the world and a driving desire to perform mitzvot. Their dedication to Tikkun Olam (repairing the world), is an attribute of which we can all be proud.

Todah Rabah to our wonderful TEC families for your donations to the Religious School Fund. Your assistance helps me to provide the “extras” for our students and teachers. Your generosity is appreciated greatly and is truly a valued gift for the Religious School.

On a different note, please join us for Havdallah and Hot dogs, on Saturday night, January 28. Although the name is the same, the theme is always different. There are many wonderful activities being planned for the ENTIRE family.

Families who have attended in past years have found them to be fun, creative, and informative. Attendees of previous programs still talk about the fun they had. Sooooo, it’s time to take out your TEC scrapbook and continue filing more pages with pictures and Jewish handmade treasures. Don’t miss this fun-filled family extravaganza. Sign up now, don’t delay!

My family and I wish everyone a Happy Hanukkah and a safe, happy and healthy 2017!

adult b’nai Mitzvah class Adult B’Nai Mitzvah Class with Rabbi Spiegel and Hazzan Pablo Do you feel a stirring inside of you and you would like to renew your connection to the prayers and Torah you learned for your Bar/Bat Mitzvah? Perhaps you never had a Bar/Bat Mitzvah as a youth and would like to experience a deeper relationship with your Judaism now?

Sunday mornings - 9:45 AM to 11:15 AM in the Library This class will begin on December 4, 2016 and conclude with a beautiful B’Nai Mitzvah Shabbat morning Service in May 2018.

This is an 18-month program - $200 course fee For more info and to sign-up, contact Rebecca at 805-497-6891 or rebecca@templeetzchaim.org 8

Havdallah and hot dogs

Havdallah and Hot Dogs Saturday, January 28, 2017 5:30 PM

This year’s theme “reJEWvenation…be your Jewish Self” • Featuring exciting crafts and activities • Enjoy Havdallah together & a Hot dog dinner, too!

Only $7.00 per person.

RSVP by Friday, January 13, 2017.

Your payment confirms your reservation.

Mail your reservation with your check to: Temple Etz Chaim 1080 Janss Road Thousand Oaks, CA 91360 (Please note Havdallah and Hot Dogs on your envelope)

new member shabbat dinner

Say Shalom New Member Dinner

! d e t i v

Friday, January 6, 2017

in l l A Everyone is invited to the Say Shalom New Member Dinner a lovely buffet of Israeli cuisine

6:00 PM

Services following at 7:30 PM in the Sanctuary

All New Members Will Receive An Honor There is no charge for this event, but R.S.V.P. is a must!

R.S.V.P. by Thursday, December 22nd Call Laurence in the TEC office (805) 497-6891 9

community menorah lighting

Light the lights!

Let’s Celebrate Hanukkah!

Community Menorah Lighting Hosted by TEC

Janss Marketplace Foodcourt Wednesday, December 28th 6:30 PM 275 N Moorpark Rd E, Thousand Oaks

bingo marathon Annual Bingo Marathon Sunday, January 15, 2017 $125 Pre-Paid by 12/31 Doors Open at 10 AM Games Start 12:00 PM e

Com

!

Play

OVER $30,000 In Prize Money 10

International-Style Lunch Included with Marathon Buy-In

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Temple Etz Chaim

Non-Profit U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 131 Thousand Oaks, CA 91360

1080 E. Janss Rd. Thousand Oaks, Ca 91360 (805)497-6891

www.templeetzchaim.org Clergy

Rabbi Richard Spiegel Hazzan Pablo Duek Rabbi Emeritus Shimon Paskow

Administration

Laurence Harris, Executive Director Debbie Blumenthal, ECE Director Joyce Bronstein, Religious School Director Shannon Tepfer, Youth Director Dena Feingold, Media and Outreach Specialist

Board of Directors:

Sherri Finn, President Jeff Solomon, Executive Vice President Gary Katz, Immediate Past President Mark Zucherman, Men’s Club President Elissa Lazarus, Women of TEC President Larry Levine, Corresponding Secretary Lisa Eidman, Financial Secretary Debbie Cohen-Sitt, Recording Secretary Terri Zwicker, VP Adult Education Larry Slomowitz, VP Building and Grounds Brenda Kriger, VP Communications Shari Mark, VP Early Childhood Education Jeff Sigel, VP Legal and Personnel Kendra Jones, VP Membership Jen Sonnenberg Rhim, VP Religious School Ken Leon, VP Ways and Means Amy B. Scop, VP Youth David Yodkovik, Treasurer Adam Ainley, Trustee Audit Wendy Margolis, Trustee Bingo Tami Wank, Trustee Community Outreach Steven Friedman, Trustee IT David Shechter, Trustee Strategic Planning Nanci Cooper, Past President Linda Friedlander, Past President Marshall Scherr, Past President Myles Simpson, Past President

The Mission of Temple Etz Chaim is to provide a spiritual home for the exploration and expression of Judaism, to foster a warm and welcoming community for celebrating the joy and beauty of our Jewish heritage, and to bring meaning to Jewish lives through religious observance, study of Torah, and performance of mitzvot.

Hanukkah Boutique

Women of TEC

Hanukkah Boutique

Sunday, December 4th 9:30 AM Social Hall

Vendors with clothing, purses and accessories, jewelry, Judaica, children’s items, gifts, etc.

Come join us for this fun shopping experience!

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ETZetera is published monthly by Temple Etz Chaim 1080 E. Janss Rd. Thousand Oaks, Ca 91360