In This Issue: From the Rabbi Page 3. President s Perspective Page 5. Hamantaschen Ball Page 10. Support CBD While Shopping Page 13

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1 January Learning Torah, Building Friendships, Achieving Goals: B not Mitzvah 2013 by Eleanor Weber Dickman Ruth Bareket, Associate Superintendent of Instruction for the Campbell Union School District, has been a member of Beth David for 28 years. Deborah Estreicher, Reference Librarian at the Martin Luther King, Jr., Library, has belonged to the synagogue for 10 years. Karen Fihn, EA joined the congregation in Susan Gould, an Obstetrician/Gynecologist with the Palo Alto Medical Foundation, has been a member for four years. And Barb Green, who retired recently after 39 years as an Elementary School Teacher for San José Unified, joined Beth David 38 years ago. In This Issue: From the Rabbi Page 3 President s Perspective Page 5 Hamantaschen Ball Page 10 Support CBD While Shopping Page 13 On Shabbat 17 Kislev 5773 (December 1, 2012), these women, who have developed a warm, strong friendship along their B not Mitzvah journey, experienced the joy of achieving this important Jewish milestone and the pleasure of sharing their achievements with family and members of Congregation Beth David. Each came from a different place: one born in Germany as the oldest child of Holocaust survivors; another the daughter of a wandering Air Force officer who always joined a shul wherever they lived; a third the granddaughter of a lifetime advocate for Israel; a fourth a child living in a small coal mining town in Pennsylvania and traveling miles to synagogue; the fifth, who remembered the effect of the Holocaust on her parents and the uplifting spirituality of her Redwood City cantor. All came together to realize a long-cherished dream: to become, as adults, knowledgeable and committed students of Torah. Deborah began her study in order to learn a Torah portion to recite at her niece s Bat Mitzvah. Karen was invited by a friend to join the group. Susan was just waiting for an adult class to start since she learned about the opportunity several years ago. Ruth wanted to achieve this milestone for many years, but pursuing Continued on page 4 Calendars Pages 14 & 15 Mishloah Manot Fundraiser Page 19 1

2 Staff List Main Office Religious School Daniel J. Pressman Senior Rabbi Philip R. Ohriner Assistant Rabbi Tanya Lorien Director of Operations Barbara Biran Ritual Director Monica Hernandez Bookkeeping Associate Jillian Cosgrave Front Office Associate Please share our joy as our son, Ronen, is called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on: Saturday, January 5, 2013 We invite you to join us for a Kiddush Luncheon following the service. Dimitry and Talya Taich Lynn Crocker Mkt & Comm Associate crocker@beth-david.org Iris Bendahan Religious School Principal bendahan@beth-david.org Andrea Ammerman R.S. Admin. Assistant religiousschool@beth-david.org Pam Ganz Hebrew High Principal hebrewhigh@beth-david.org 2

3 From the Rabbi By Rabbi Philip Ohriner Dear Friends, As winter slowly begins to fade in Israel and white almond blossoms canvas the countryside, children and grown-ups alike sing the famous poem by Israel Dushman: The Almond tree is blossoming, A golden sun is glowing, Birds sing out in joyous glee, From every roof and every tree. Tu B shevat is coming! Holiday of the trees! Tu B shevat is coming! Holiday of the trees! Tu B shevat, the 15 th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat, is not just a holiday for trees but also their New Year, just as Rosh Hashanah is the New Year for human beings. According to Beit Hillel, the date was chosen to correspond with the cessation of winter rains in Israel. During the time of the Temple, the implications of the holiday were important for agricultural reasons. Any fruit blossoming after Tu B shevat belonged to the following year when it came to tithing and observing other agricultural laws. However, Tu B shevat has always been about more than just tithing! In fact, Tu B shevat has morphed and changed in virtually every period of Jewish history. Beginning in the 16 th century, kabbalists developed the first Tu B shevat seder, likening different kinds of fruit and mixtures of wine to internal psycho-spiritual dimensions of human existence. Trees became metaphors for the essential aspects of human beings, the universe, and the Divine. In modernity, Tu B shevat became important in the movement to rebuild Zion and establish a renewed Jewish state through the reforestation project of the Jewish National Fund. For many, planting a tree in Israel through JNF is still the primary activity for Tu B shevat. Finally, in the late 20 th century, drawing on centuries of Jewish laws and literature expressing an ardent connection between Judaism and environmentalism, Tu B shevat developed into an early, Jewish Earth Day. This year, CBD will be hosting a communal Tu B shevat seder during Shabbat morning services on January 26 th following the Torah Service (approximately 11:15am). We will hold two separate seders, one for children and one for adults. (Think of it as a nice appetizer before lunch!) During our seders we will explore the kabbalistic understanding of various kinds of fruit and their relationship to human qualities, discuss ways in which our faith requires us to be better stewards of our planet, sing songs to honor the festival, and nosh on delicious fruits and nuts. After the approximately 45 minute seder we will all join together for a communal lunch, followed by a brief musaf service. This Tu B shevat, join in the excitement of celebrating trees and our beautiful world. Experience the joy of being together in community as we greet the beginnings of Spring. The Almond tree is blossoming, A golden sun is glowing, Birds sing out in joyous glee, From every roof and every tree. Tu B shevat is coming! Holiday of the trees! Tu B shevat is coming! Holiday of the trees! This is one you will not want to miss! L shalom, Rabbi Philip Ohriner 3

4 Learning Torah, Building Friendships, Achieving Goals Continued from front cover advanced degrees for her profession claimed her time. Barb had always wanted to have a greater understanding of Judaism through prayer and study of Torah. Their diverse reasons, each unique, all reveal a growing depth of commitment to their Jewish souls and a desire to root their sense of Jewish identity in knowledge and enlightened practice. Each woman s personal pride of accomplishment - learning Hebrew, singing accurate trope, understanding more about Torah and its relationship to history, understanding the purpose and meaning of prayer - had made the journey (the long hours of study, the challenge of finding time and focus, the pressure of performance) worthwhile. But the greatest delight has been in the affectionate relationships that have been formed during their months together in this endeavor. Karen calls it the bond of friendship we have developed. Barb feels blessed with my new friendships, supporting each other through personal challenges, and, in the end, all of us have benefited from our sisterhood. Deborah enjoyed sharing insights and lives, and is proud that although most of us entered this class as strangers, we leave as friends. Susan believes that this is the best way to learn and study - a process enriched by sharing it with others. And Ruth concludes, the journey is a greater treasure to me than the destination. Different backgrounds, different professions, different histories, different reasons for choosing this journey at this time. What is the same for all is their commitment, their joy of accomplishment, and their pleasure in sharing the experience with family, friends, and the Beth David community. Shabbatones in Concert An A Capella Group from the University of Pennsylvania Sunday, January 6 th at 5:00 p.m. At Beth David While the Shabbatones are a Jewish a capella group, their repertoire contains a variety of songs from American and Israeli popular artists, as well as their own arrangements of prayers and Jewish texts. Audience members will be entertained by a unique and exciting blend of cultures, brought to them by a group of passionate and dedicated college students. Tickets are $8 for JCC and CBD members, $10 for non-members. To purchase tickets online go to: You can also purchase tickets by calling or ing Lisa at Lisacg@svjcc.org or Tickets will also be available at the door. 4

5 President s Perspective By Joanne Cornbleet, CBD Board President Highlights of 2012 As I think back over the last year, I am amazed how much time I spent at Beth David, not just in meetings as president, but as an attendee at wonderful programs. I enjoyed many Shabbat and Chag celebrations: special Shabbat services led by many of our ancillary organizations as well as our children; honoring congregants on Shabbat, including our Annual Campaign donors and our volunteers; an inspiring speaker on Global Hunger Shabbat; lunches and dinners in our very large Sukkah; the Purim Sing-a-Long and Carnival; the interfaith Thanksgiving service; and celebrating the achievements of our newest adult B not Mitzvah. I was able to enrich my Jewish learning with special Shabbat programs most Saturday afternoons, many Adult Education classes, lectures, and seminars, Hazak speakers, and by attending a stimulating Scholar-in-Residence weekend with Peninnah Schram. Other events I enjoyed with my Beth David community included a Sunday afternoon potluck in the park, ReDiscover Beth David Summer Showcase, BBQ & Bar chu, the street dedication to Aristides de Sousa Mendes; the Religious School Zimriya Song Festival honoring Debbie Friedman, the Sisterhood Mah Jongg tournament, the Hamantashen Ball with Wally s Swing World, Noten Yad Senior Frauds and Scams workshop, and the Congregation Chanukah Party. Thanks to all the volunteers who made these and many other events possible for Beth David. Affinity Groups Our affinity groups greatly enrich Jewish life at Beth David through programs and projects targeted toward specific groups. Looking at some of their activities in 2012, it is easy to see why there is a place for everyone at CBD: Sisterhood: 180 members; Sisterhood Shabbat; Mah Jongg tournament; Queen Esthers Kitchen; Purim silent auction; Torah Fund tea, Yad L Kol volunteer appreciation evening; Zahava young women s group with informal get-togethers. Men s Club: Social Activities: Super Bowl party, kayaking, Bocce Ball, billiards, and softball. Service Activities: Yom Hashoah candles, cooking for BBQ and Bar chu, cooking for religious school, and sukkah construction and tear-down. Jews Next Dor: Mailing list of 530; approx. 50 events/year; 2 nd Annual Talent Show; received a grant from United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ) to defray the cost of outreach programming. Jewish Families Group: Sukkah celebration; PJ Shabbat; Tot Shabbat, park meet-ups, Parent and Me classes (with PJ Library); building community through a group website and a Facebook page. Hazak: Summer picnic; Chanukah party; lectures; game afternoon; Photo Directory project. Youth Groups: USY and Kadima chapters; hosted regional USY Fall Kinnus. Jewish Book Group: Meets monthly on Shabbat now in its 13 th year! 62 members, approx. 135 book discussions. Threads of Tradition: Sewing sessions for making Tachrichim, a task that provides dignity to the deceased and comfort for those who mourn. Career Havurah: training on topics such as informational interviews, how to research companies, improving LinkedIn profiles, creating elevator pitches and interviewing skills; almost 60 people in the private LinkedIn group; a number of people who were attending now have full time jobs. Education Our Religious School continues to offer a unique combination of Judaica and Hebrew learning, enhanced by Jewish cultural and social action activities. Our students participated in a Debbie Friedman Zimriya (song festival), Yom HaAtzmaut Rikudiya (dance festival), and, upcoming, an Israel Culture Fair on Mother s Day. New for this year: the Shabbat Mishpaha experience--students leading/participating in Friday night services followed by a community Shabbat dinner; and the pre-b nei Mitzvah Social Action/Tikkun Olam (SATO) project--students present and select Continued on page 6 5

6 President s Perspective Continued from page 5 charitable projects to support. The Religious school continues its Netivot program with learning tailored to student ability and experience - 19 students are enrolled in Myuchad or Nativ 2, requiring special attention. The Teen Madrikhim Team program encourages our teens to assist in the Religious School. This year, we have 20 Religious School aides and 4 Torah leaders. Thanks to Iris Bendahan (Principal), Andrea Ammerman (RS Administrator), Irene Swedroe (TMT and Myuchad coordinator) and all of our dedicated teachers, as well as our Religious School Committee. This year, we bid goodbye to Lindsay Greensweig- Ehrman, Hebrew High Principal for 10 years, and welcomed Pam Ganz as our new Hebrew High Principal/Youth Coordinator. Pam is introducing exciting new options for our teens in Hebrew High. Thanks to the Hebrew High Steering Committee for their guidance throughout this transition. Adult Education is fully organized by our volunteers. Thanks to Steve Levin and the Adult Ed Committee for a full schedule of exciting classes, lectures, seminars, and Shabbat programs, as well as yearly Scholar-in- Residence weekends. Ritual Once again we enjoyed High Holiday services with Hazzan Levy. As well as adult services on High Holidays, there were youth services for all ages. We ve continued our daily Minyans, providing a place for Kaddish not only for Beth David members, but for everyone in our community. Thanks to Barbara Biran for coordinating our ritual needs all year long, and to Sue Glettig and the kitchen staff for taking care of our kitchen and preparing food for us. This year, Ritual developed a Rabbinic Succession Guideline, and a Pulpit Committee successfully negotiated contracts with our rabbis. Tikkun Olam Helping others is an important value at Beth David. Our groups and committees continue to do more and more to make the world a better place. The Social Action Committee made soup and sandwiches for over 150 homeless as part of Saratoga Serves, a community-wide week of service. They sponsored and participated in a build day with Habitat for Humanity. Project Isaiah, our High Holiday Food Drive donated over 4,200 lbs. of food, a new record for CBD. Throughout the year Social Action organized a warm coat drive, blanket drive, and a blood drive. The Faith-in-Action shelter for homeless returned to Beth David this year, providing homeless in our community with shelter and food for a month. We ve combined current Continued on page 17 Help Us Celebrate Our Volunteers Tell us about a person or people in our community who gave generously of their time and effort. We want to publicly thank them in our new monthly D'var column and in our synagogue lobby. Go to and tell us whom to thank and a bit about why they are deserving. Our community depends on our great volunteers. Let s show them our appreciation. 6

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8 Adult Education Classes, Study Groups, and Shabbat Programs Connecting to Core Components of Kabbalah Thursday 7:30-9:00 p.m. on Jan. 10, 17, 24, 31 Join Rabbi Ohriner to explore some of Kabbalah s basic teachings on the sefirotic system of emanation, the Lurianic narrative of creation, and the origins of tikkun through holy acts. The fee for this foursession class is $18 for Beth David members and $36 non-members. Hebrew Classes with Chuck Taubman Contact Chuck Taubman at nambuat@comcast.net or (408) Beginning Hebrew for FSU Émigrés Monday 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. (offsite) Intermediate Hebrew Wednesday 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Friday Morning Study and Discussion Groups Friday Morning Talmud Study with Rabbi Pressman Friday 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Study Tractate Berakhot - Benedictions. Pirkei Avot Discussion Group Friday 9:45 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. Explore ancient Jewish wisdom from Pirkei Avot ( Ethics of the Fathers ). Shabbat Afternoon Programs start after lunch (about 1:15-1:30) Building Blocks of Jewish Prayer with our Rabbis First Shabbat each month January 5, February 2, etc. Jewish Book Discussion Group Second Shabbat each month Jan. 12, Feb. 9, etc. For the scoop about the Book Group, which reads and discusses Jewishrelated fiction and nonfiction, call Miriam Marr at (650) Mussar Matters: Building Character and Self-Mastery through Jewish Texts with Rabbi Pressman Third Shabbat each month January 19, February 16, etc. Scholar-in-Residence Weekend will be on March 15-17! Featuring Rabbi Bradley Artson, Dean of the Ziegler School in LA Congregation Beth David Prospect Road, Saratoga, CA (408)

9 Adult Education CJL Speakers and Sunday Seminars in January Tuesday Conversations in Jewish Learning (CJL) CJL is an evening discussion program on Jewish issues. A small donation is requested. Torah of Reconciliation Tuesday, January 8, 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. After 9/11, Rabbi Emeritus Sheldon Lewis of Kol Emeth in Palo Alto sought solace in Jewish texts. In his new book Torah of Reconciliation, he reveals that peacemaking is a key Jewish value through expounding upon the rich, wise resources in Judaism for peacemaking in the modern world. Book sales and signing follow the presentation. Sunday Seminars Sunday Seminars in 2013 focus on the theme Jews in Classical Antiquity, which includes the Second Temple period. Each Sunday Seminar is held from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday Seminars are intended for all adults, including Religious School parents and any other adults A small donation is requested. Rewriting the Bible: The Culture of Hellenistic Judaism Sunday, January 13, 2013, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Dr. Erich Gruen, Professor Emeritus of History and Classics at the University of California, Berkeley, is a foremost scholar about Jews in the Greco-Roman world. He will discuss post-biblical stories about Abraham and Joseph to resolve a paradox: Jews in antiquity regarded the Hebrew Bible as the sacred word of God. They considered the Septuagint (Greek translation) to be an exact replica in the same category, as an object of awe and reverence. Yet the Septuagint diverges significantly from the original. Jews took liberties in recasting Biblical tales in new forms often distant from the Bible. What happened to the awe, reverence, and supposed literal adherence to the text? Other Sunday Seminars about Jews in Classical Antiquity include: February 10, 2013 Dr. Erich Gruen discusses Diaspora and Homeland March 10, 2013 Dr. Jonathan Roth discusses Hebrews at War April 21, 2013 Dr. Sarah Shectman discusses Marriage and Divorce Congregation Beth David Prospect Road, Saratoga, CA (408)

10 Save the Date! 2nd Annual Hamantaschen Ball Saturday, March 2nd, 7:00 p.m. We had such a fabulous time last year, we want to do it again! CBD Programs will be sponsoring our 2 nd Annual Hamantaschen Ball on Saturday, March 2nd at 7:00 p.m. It will be open to the entire community, you don t have to be a CBD member to attend. Wonderful, danceable music of the 40 s, 50 s, and 60 s that all generations can enjoy will be provided by Wally s Swing World Cocktail Combo (who perform frequently at the Fairmont Hotel to rave reviews). Although March 2 nd is the week after the CBD Purim Carnival, our cookies will still be fresh, so you can come in Purim costume or wear your party clothes. The tickets prices are $18 for singles and $36 per couple in advance or $25 for singles and $50 per couple at the door. Includes Hors d oeuvres Wine & Beer Desserts. We will also have a prize raffle. As the date draws nearer, look for details on our CBD website (beth-david.org); click on RSVP or Save The Date. Looking forward to seeing you there. To hear a sample of the band s great music, check out Want to Help? Be Part of the Committee Forming NOW! Programs is just starting to form a committee to help make this fun event a reality, so volunteers are very much appreciated. There will be a wide variety of things to do. Please contact Rita Schlosser via at program@beth-david.org or call me to find opportunities to be on the team that makes this happen with fun and flair. 10

11 Mazal Tov to Kita Gimel Mazal Tov to Kita Gimel who received their first Siddur Sim Shalom at our November Shabbat Mishpaha Experience (SME). Service was followed by the first of several amazing potluck style dinners planned for this year. Join our SME Potlucks on March 1 st and May 3 rd. 11

12 Louis Chevlen Memorial Blood Drive Monday, January 14 th 3:30 to 7:00 p.m. At Beth David Please give the gift of life by donating blood at the Louis Chevlen Memorial Blood Drive. Please contact Bryan Ferguson, to setup your donation appointment or if you have questions. Your donation can save a life! Threads of Tradition Sunday, January 6th 10:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. Threads of Tradition is a group of women who sew Tachrichim (Jewish burial garments). Basic sewing skills are appreciated, but not necessary for participation. Bring a sewing machine, if you have one. We also appreciate contributions to the Rabbi s Discretionary Fund to help cover the cost of material for the garments. Please Beverly Jacobson at bevjacobson@earthlink.net for more information. Women s Havurah We are in the process of forming a Women s Havurah (women s group). If you are a woman aged 65 and older interested in joining other women your age in a supportive, social setting, please contact Dafna Mizrahi at Dafna.Mizrahi.realtor@gmail.com. 12

13 CBD Expands Play Space for Children We hope you have noticed our expanded "pinat hataf" (tot corner)! While books, playmat, and quiet toys remain in the sanctuary so that tots may quietly entertain themselves using their library voices during services, the expansion offers an additional option. This room allows nursing mothers and younger children playing more loudly to continue their participation in services while having the space they need. We are excited to further facilitate the needs of the children, parents, and guardians of CBD while allowing all to remain connected to our prayer experience. Support Beth David While Shopping - Online and in Stores - Amazon.com - On the Beth David website, click SHOP at the top of the page and follow the Amazon link. It s the same Amazon shopping experience, but with an added benefit to Beth David. Credit Cards If you haven t already done so, register your credit cards with escrip. When you use your cards at dozens of merchants, including supermarkets, Beth David gets a portion of what you spend. On the Beth David website, click SHOP, then click shuk2shul. It is easy and safe to register your cards with escrip. escrip In addition to registering your credit cards with escrip, you can also shop online in a virtual mall of escrip merchants where Beth David earns commission on your purchases. On the shuk2shul page, click the big escrip logo to enter the mall and avoid parking hassles! Support Beth David without paying anything extra in three easy ways. All of these options cost you nothing and Beth David earns a percent of your purchase. 13

14 January Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday 1 19th of Tevet, 5773 New Year's Day Office Closed 2 20th of Tevet, :00am Intermed. Hebrew 6 24th of Tevet, :30am Minyan 10:00am Threads of Tradition 5:00pm Shabbatones Concert 7 25th of Tevet, :00pm Beg Hebrew for FSU Emigres 7:30pm Finance Committee 8 26th of Tevet, :00pm Photo Directory Photoshoots 7:00pm Hebrew High 7:30pm Conversations in Jewish Learning 7:30pm Membership Cmte. 9 27th of Tevet, :00am Intermed Hebrew 2:00pm Photo Directory Photoshoots 4:00pm Religious School 6:15pm Kadima Board Mtg. 7:45pm E-Board Meeting 13 2nd of Sh'vat, :00am Torah Trope Class 9:30am Minyan 9:30am Religious School 10:30am Sunday Seminar 11:00am Ganon 1:00pm Boy Scouts Pinewood Derby Prep 14 3rd of Sh'vat, :00pm Beginning Hebrew for FSU Emigres 3:30pm Louis Chevlen Memorial Blood Drive 7:30pm Career Havurah 15 4th of Sh'vat, :00pm Hebrew High 16 5th of Sh'vat, :00am Intermed Hebrew 4:00pm Religious School 20 9th of Sh'vat, :30am Minyan 11:00am Ganon 21 10th of Sh'vat, 5773 Martin Luther King Day Office Closed 2:00pm Beginning Hebrew for FSU Emigres 22 11th of Sh'vat, :00pm Photo Directory Photoshoots 7:00pm Hebrew High 23 12th of Sh'vat, :00am Intermed Hebrew 2:00pm Photo Directory Photoshoots 4:00pm Religious School 27 16th of Sh'vat, :00am Haftara Trope Class 9:30am Dance 9:30am Minyan 9:30am Religious School 11:00am Ganon 1:00pm Boy Scouts Pinewood Derby Prep 1:00pm Jewbilee 28 17th of Sh'vat, :00pm Beginning Hebrew for FSU Emigres 7:30pm Career Havurah 29 18th of Sh'vat, :00pm Hebrew High 30 19th of Sh'vat, :00am Intermed Hebrew 4:00pm Religious School 14

15 January Thursday Friday Saturday 3 21st of Tevet, nd of Tevet, :30am Friday Morning Talmud Study 9:45am Pirkei Avot Discussion 4:46pm Candle lighting 6:30pm Hazak Shabbat Dinner 5 23rd of Tevet, :30am Services/Ronen Taich Bar Mitzvah 9:30am Zayin Shabbat School 12:30pm Kiddush 1:30pm Building Blocks of Jewish Prayer Highlights for January 4th 6:30 pm Hazak Shabbat Dinner 10 28th of Tevet, :00pm Photo Directory Photoshoots 7:30pm Connecting to Core Components of Kabbalah 17 6th of Sh'vat, :30pm Connecting to Core Components of Kabbalah 24 13th of Sh'vat, :00pm Photo Directory Photoshoots 7:30pm Connecting to Core Components of Kabbalah 31 20th of Sh'vat, :30pm Connecting to Core Components of Kabbalah 11 29th of Tevet, :30am Friday Morning Talmud Study 9:45am Pirkei Avot Discussion 4:52pm Candle lighting 6:30pm Services 18 7th of Sh'vat, :30am Friday Morning Talmud Study 9:45am Pirkei Avot Discussion 4:59pm Candle lighting 6:00pm Pajama Shabbat 6:30pm Services 25 14th of Sh'vat, :30am Friday Morning Talmud Study 9:45am Pirkei Avot Discussion 5:06pm Candle lighting 8:00pm Services Cantoral Shabbat 12 1st of Sh'vat, 5773 Rosh Chodesh Sh'vat 9:30am Services/Aufruf Sam Farber and Lauren Ryan 10:00am Youth Congregation 10:30am Haverim Youth Svcs 11:15am Tot Shabbat 12:30pm Kiddush 1:30pm Book Discussion Grp 19 8th of Sh'vat, :30am Services/Sisterhood Shabbat 12:30pm Kiddush 1:30pm Mussar Matters 26 15th of Sh'vat, 5773 Tu BiShvat 9:30am Services 10:00am Youth Congregation 11:15am Tu B Shvat Seder 11:15am Youth Tu B Shvat Seder 11:15am Tot Shabbat 12:30pm Kiddush 6 th 5:00 pm Shabbatones Concert from UPenn 8 th 7:30 pm Conversations in Jewish Learning: Torah of Reconciliation 13 th 10:30 am Sunday Seminar: Rewritings of the Bible: The Culture of Hellenistic Judaism 14 th 3:30 pm Louis Chevlen Memorial Blood Drive 15

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17 President s Perspective Continued from page 5 mitzvah opportunities from the Religious School and congregation in a Mitzvah-a-Month list, and encourage congregants to perform at least one every month. Chevrat Chesed continues to extend a helping hand to our own congregants. They have a volunteer list of 100, with 20 very active volunteers. In 2012, Chevrat Chesed provided meals, rides, and other assistance to approximately 30 congregants. Hiddur Zaken is a new Beth David initiative that provides visits to homebound seniors. This year, 11 CBD member volunteers visited 17 CBD homebound congregants. Rabbis Philip Ohriner & Ilana Baird, along with volunteers, hosted Rosh Hashanah, Shavuot and Chanukah programs at apartment complexes where many of our Beth David FSU (Former Soviet Union) members reside. Noten Yad continues to explore ways to improve life for Seniors in Santa Clara County, focusing on transportation. This year, they organized a forum for the entire community (120 attended) to make us aware of common frauds and scams perpetrated on seniors. Administration Achievements in 2012 include: launch of a new website, online services for member accounts, and construction of Pinat Hataf, a playroom next to the sanctuary. Administration completed security upgrades from our grant, and executed an unexpected termite abatement for the building. Administration also participated in fundraising by entering and promoting a Beth David Team in the Silicon Valley Duck Race. Thanks to Tanya Lorien and all the office and custodial staff for the many tasks they do for Beth David every day. Board of Directors/Leadership Development This year Beth David completed a pilot program, Sulam for Emerging Leaders, a USCJ leadership training program for younger members who have leadership potential. The board developed and approved a new mission statement and is working on a new organizational chart. Endowment Board of Trustees The Endowment Board of Trustees meets quarterly to handle issues relative to the Beth David Endowment Funds. This year, they completed a Gift Acceptance Policy and an Investment Policy, and have chosen a financial investment advisor/broker for the Endowment Funds. The Legacy Giving Committee was established by the Endowment Board to initiate a Legacy Giving Campaign for Beth David. Committee members have been participating in the Silicon Valley Planned Giving Incubator Project, developing materials for an upcoming campaign. They also will be participating with the Silicon Valley Jewish Federation and other local agencies in the Silicon Valley Combined Legacy Giving Campaign. Highlights from Other Committees Finance: developed new gift acceptance and investment policies; rewriting finance policy; finished with a small surplus. Membership: welcomed 18 new member households; new member introduction at services with book gift; ReDiscover Beth David Summer Showcase with ~150 attendees. Archives Committee: started oral history project 20 oral history sessions, 1 memory salon with founders; started organizing and storing archive materials on site. Library Committee: developed an online catalog; 16 th year of Miriam Gannes Memorial Reading Program for Religious School. On a personal note, I am grateful to the Officers, Board Directors, Committee Chairs, Rabbi Pressman, Rabbi Ohriner, and Tanya Lorien for their support during my presidency. Thanks to my Executive Vice-President, David Hoffman, for his help in all legal/contract matters. Finally, thanks to my favorite involuntary volunteer, my husband, Harry, for his support, patience, and love. 17

18 Donate items for the Sisterhood Silent Auction at the Purim Carnival Deadline is February 3 rd The Sisterhood Silent Auction has been a part of the Purim Carnival for the past several years. Proceeds from the auction have been steadily growing and have funded some wonderful acitivites at Beth David. It s that time of year again; planning has actively begun and we need your help. We re asking for your suggestions and donations. Our success is your success and without your help and support we cannot be successful. Suggested donation items include, but are not limited to: Services (e.g. estate plans, tax preparation, interior design consultation, photo shoot) Products (e.g. gift cards, toys) Holiday-style baskets (coffee basket, wine lovers basket, cooking basket with book and/or gadgets) Baking basket Scrap-booking basket Knitting and/or crocheting basket Family games basket Monetary Donations are Always Welcome To donate, contact: Irina Tenberg at irinatenberg@yahoo.com, or Galina Drabkin at Mitzvah A Month Congregation Beth David s Mission includes being a caring community and serving the larger community (tikkun olam making the world a better place). The following are opportunities that will help us serve God in this way. Recycle Your Used Ink Cartridges Drop them in the drop box located in the CBD lobby. Attend Minyan We invite you to look at your schedules and commit to at least one night to attend this important endeavor: Sunday mornings at 9:30 am and Monday - Thursday evening at 7:00 pm Share Your Business Expertise Help your fellow Beth David members find a job or enhance their career/business by sharing your professional network through our private LinkedIn group. Someone you know may be the connection a congregant needs to get in the door. Havurah.careers@beth-david.org. 18

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25 Contributions Contributions are vital to the life of our community. We acknowledge the gifts received between October 16, 2012 through November 30, 2012, from the following individuals and families Adult Education Programs In honor of Chuck Taubman, from NamKyoung Lee Balk Family Camp Scholarship Fund Alisa Balk & Juanita Balk, in memory of our dear friend Melvina Balk, from Sandra Silver In memory of my mother, Lea Seymon, from Jane Jacobson Alisa Balk & Juanita Balk, in memory of Melvina Balk, from Lawrence & Anne Sandell Alisa Balk & Juanita Balk, in memory of Melvina Balk, from Fay Roos Alisa Balk & Juanita Balk, in memory of Melvina Balk, from Sidney & Marsha Hirsh Juanita Balk, in memory of Melvina Balk, from Cris & Landa Simmons Alisa Balk & Juanita Balk, in memory of Melvina Balk, from Ben & Evelyn Bellman In memory of Melvina Balk, from Roy Larson Alisa Balk & Juanita Balk, in memory of Mel Balk, from Miriam Engel Alisa Balk & Family, in memory of your beloved grandmother & mother-in-law, Mel Balk, from Harvey & Ellen Gold Juanita Balk & Family, in memory of your beloved grandmother and mother-in-law, Mel Balk, from Harvey & Ellen Gold Alisa Balk & Juanita Balk, in memory of Melvina Balk, from Joan Patterson Alisa Balk & Juanita Balk, in memory of Melvina Balk, from Israel & Judith Krongold Alisa Balk & Juanita Balk, in loving memory of Melvina Balk, from Richard & Dorothy Dorsay Congregation Beth David Bible and Siddur Fund In memory of Debbie Gandel, from Martin Gandel Congregation Beth David Endowment Fund In memory of my father, Frank Hubka, from Dr. William Hubka In memory of my friend, Anna Vishney, from Dr. William Hubka In memory of my mother, Viola Hubka, from Dr. William Hubka In memory of my mother, Gertrude Levine, from Bernard Levine In memory of my father, Dr. Gerhard Maerker, from Wendy Harris Congregation Beth David Fund In memory of my mother, Anna Lasarev, from Galina Belogolovsky In memory of my grandfather, Avrum Belogolovsky, from Alex Belogolovsky In memory of my grandmother, Chaya Waisman, from Alex Belogolovsky In memory of my son, Boris Freydin, from Liya Freydin In memory of my grandfather, Joseph Carr, from Sheryl Rattner Congregation Beth David Fund (continued) In memory of my mother, Gertrude Levine, from Bernard Levine In memory of my father, Okley D. Patterson, from Rita Schlosser In memory of my mother, Alice Flomp, from Rita Schlosser In memory of my brother, Arnold Schwartz, from Martin Schwartz In memory of my mother, Manya Reyzis, from Liza Smolyanitsky In memory of my mother, Mary Bernard, from Alan Bernard In memory of my father, Bert F. Goldberg, from Enid Malkin In memory of my father, Haim Daniel, from Gerald Daniel In memory of my mother in law, Minnie Scher, from Gerald Daniel In memory of my mother, Lika Segal, from Kamillal Lif In memory of Earl Morgan, from Stacey Morgan In honor of Hal Silberstein, from Edward & Ruth Gipstein Marcia Kaplan, in memory of Henry Kaplan, from Allen & Lauren Goldstein Barbara Green, mazal tov on your bat mitzvah, from George Steres & Cheryl Zatkin-Steres Our sincere appreciation to Andrew Passett, Dave Graubert, Michael Herman, Walter Spector for helping take down the Succah, from Steven & Rita Schlosser Ruth Bareket, Deborah Estreicher, Karen Fihn, Susan Gould and Barbara Green, in honor of your B'not Mitzvah of from Lloyd & Eleanor Dickman Murray & Sandra Dolmatch, in celebration of your wedding anniversary, from Jerry Daniel & Natalie Schriger Hebrew High Congregation Beth David, from Charles & Davida Adelberg High Holy Day Service In loving memory of our parents, from Arkady & Maya Belogolovsky Holocaust Youth Education Fund In memory of my step-father, Al Steffen, from Marilyn Goodman In memory of my mother, Arlene Greenberg, from Laurie Himelstein In memory of my father, Leonard Greenberg, from Laurie Himelstein In memory of my mother, Yenta Gruzman, from Faina Eichis In memory of my father, Eugene Wald, from Alice Wald In memory of my brother, Lawrence Ehrlich, from Donald Ehrlich Kiddush Lunch Sponsor kiddush, from Alexander & Elena Rodstein Sponsor kiddush, from Arye & Barbara Green Sponsor kiddush, from Melvin & Karen Fihn 25

26 Contributions Continued Kiddush Lunch (continued) Sponsor kiddush, from Noah & Ruth Bareket Sponsor kiddush, from B. Rami Tabibian & Susan Gould Sponsor kiddush, from Deborah Estreicher Sponsor kiddush, from Howard & Margie Pomerantz Sponsor kiddush, from Michael & Irina Rivkin Sponsor kiddush, from Marty & Linda Medwin Congregation Beth David, from Sharon Gloster Congregation Beth David, from David & Judy Paktor Congregation Beth David, from Dov & Madelyn Isaacs Congregation Beth David, from Lewis & Carol Osofsky In memory of my mother, Ida Kragan, from Michele Balaban In memory of my grandfather, Sam Schweitzer & grandmother, Frieda Kaufman, from Eleanor Kiss In memory of my mother, Gertrude Levine, from Bernard Levine In memory of my father-in-law, Abraham Bischoff, from Marjorie Bischoff In memory of my mother, Candida de Choudens, from Olga Farber In memory of my boyfriend, David Wieland, from Lisa Kiss In memory of my mother, Miriam Spivock, from Aline Usim In memory of my mother, Dollie Klatzko, from Marjorie Bischoff Marcia Kaplan & Family, in memory of Henry Kaplan, from Mrs. Natalie Schriger Jeremy & Roberta Bloom, in honor of Kenneth Bloom's wedding, from David & Deborah Hoffman March of the Living Fund In memory of my husband, Bob Silver & father-in-law, Harry Silver, from Sandra Silver In memory of my uncle, Chaim Brumer, from Barry & Linda Brummer In memory of Dave Leo Krieger, from Leonard & Sylvia Metz In memory of Samuel Metz, from Leonard & Sylvia Metz Rabbis Pressman and Ohriner, in appreciation, from Leonard & Sylvia Metz Rabbi Ohriner Discretionary Fund In memory of my mother, Leonora Martin, from Susan Rosenzweig In memory of my mother, Gertrude Levine, from Bernard Levine Rabbi Philip Ohriner, in sincere appreciation from the Kaplan Family Rabbi Pressman Discretionary Fund Congregation Beth David, from Derryl Molina Congregation Beth David, from Christl Denecke In memory of my cousin, Marshall Berger, from Maxie Baer In memory of my father-in-law, Mark William Postman, from Frederica Postman In memory of my mother, Gertrude Levine, from Bernard Levine In memory of my father, Sol Lindenbaum, from Bonnie Ashkenazi Rabbi Pressman Discretionary Fund (continued) In memory of my mother, Manya Reyzis, from Alexander Lazer In memory of my father, Nathan Baer, from Maxie Baer Rabbi Daniel Pressman, in appreciation, from the Kaplan Family Rama Strod Education Fund In memory of my father, Louis Rosenzweig, from Allen Rosenzweig In memory of my mother, Lyuba Plotkina, from Dina Yevelev In memory of my father, Max Hoffman, from Helen Baer Religious School & Hebrew High Scholarship In memory of my mother, Giselle Marr, from Charles Marr In memory of my sister, Dorothy Weisberg, from Martin Weisberg Religious School Myuchad Fund In memory of my brother, Alexander Kohan, from Ruth Kohan In memory of my brother, Jacky Zeltzer, from Rita Sauvage In memory of my mother, Anna Hartman Keller, from Sandra Silver In memory of my brother, Stanley Levine, from Carol Weiss In memory of my aunt, Sophie Ginsburg, from Sheila Weisberg In memory of my aunt, Shirley Rubin, from Sheila Weisberg Kathy and Leah Cohen, in honor of your birthdays, from Mrs. Natalie Schriger Lisa Kiss, in memory of Dave Wieland, from Edward & Eleanor Kiss Religious School Principal Discretionary Fund Iris Bendahan, from Viktor Gitis & Rakhil Karasik Robert E. Levinson Memorial Library Fund In memory of my mother, Eva Zeltzer, from Rita Sauvage In memory of my mother, Ruth Wilson, from Marlene Kass In memory of my sister-in-law, Celia Brickel, from Marlene Kass In memory of my brother-in-law, Alfred Levinson, from Fay Levinson In memory of my mother, Pauline Roman, from Susan Ehrlich In memory of my mother, Helen C Schweitzer, from Edward & Eleanor Kiss Silver, Sabes, Frank Youth Fund In memory of my mother, Pauline Addison, from Arnold Addison In memory of my mother, Esther Penzak, from Cookie Addison Social Action Homeless Dinner Donation, from Seema Cicerone Homeless Dinner Donation, from Elias & Sandra Shahvar Stone Scholarship Fund In memory of Bernard Steinberg, beloved father of Henry Stone, from Henry & Joan Stone In memory of Frances Frank, beloved mother of Joan Stone, from Henry & Joan Stone 26

27 Congregation Beth David Donor(s): (If donor is a Beth David member, you may leave address blank) There s a Place for Me at CBD Name Address City State Zip In honor of In memory of Another message Acknowledge this donation to: (If acknowledgement goes to a Beth David member, you may leave address blank) Name Address City State Zip Additional Message: I do NOT wish to have my donation acknowledged in the D var Donation Amount: $ or check one of the following: $18 $36 $72 $108 Congregation Beth David Fund Beth David Endowment Kiddush Oneg Other Funds: Bible and Siddur Fund Rama Strod Education Fund Silver, Sabes, Frank Youth Fund Varadi Youth Education Fund Holocaust Youth Education Fund Myuchad Fund (Special Needs Program) Religious School/Hebrew High Scholarship Fund Other Funds (cont): Balk Family Camp Scholarship Fund Stone Family Scholarship Fund Milton Itzkowitz Fund for Émigrés Robert E. Levinson Memorial Library Fund Hebrew High March of the Living Scholarship Fund Discretionary Funds (please specify): Rabbi Daniel Pressman Rabbi Philip Ohriner Religious School Principal Hebrew High Principal Billing: (Choose One) Mahzor Lev Shalem Donation: Check/payment attached, please process directly. $60.00 each Siddur Sim Shalom: $60.00 each Bill my account for the above amount and process immediately. Account # Please allow 2 business weeks for the acknowledgement to be sent to donor and donee. We appreciate your donations! By using a form, you help to ensure that the money will be applied correctly, and your message on the acknowledgement card will be correct. Of course, donations are always welcome in any manner, with or without this form. Members of the congregation may also make donations by phone or online at Celebrate a Simha Remember a Loved One 27

28 Congregation Beth David Prospect Road Saratoga, CA Change service requested Nonprofit Org U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 94 Cupertino, CA Visit our website at: Please if you do not wish to receive this printed newsletter in the future In February For a complete listing of all upcoming CBD events, see the calendar in this publication Diaspora and Homeland: Jewish Perspectives in the Greco-Roman Era Sunday, February 10 th, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Dr. Erich Gruen explores the dilemma of Jews in the Diaspora from ancient Italy to Iran, most living at great distance from the Temple in Jerusalem and rarely able to visit the homeland. Jewish Pioneer Woman of the American West Sunday, February 10 th, 7:00-9:00 p.m. Hear the stories of amazing Jewish women who helped settle the West in the mid-19th century. These courageous women raised their families under great hardship. Still they managed to bring Yiddishkeit to the frontier. Mah Jongg Tournament Sunday, February 17 th, 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. A fun day of tournament Mah Jongg at Beth David with prizes and lunch! Tournament play is 12 games, 4 games per hour, and players rotate tables every hour. All players are welcome so please bring your friends! Save the Date: Scholar in Residence - Friday, March 15 th - Sunday, March 17 th Featuring Rabbi Bradley Artson, Dean of the Ziegler School in LA 28