[email protected]

Shalom Bayit
Temple Beth Ami
A Reform Congregation, Member URJ
23023 Hilse Lane, Santa Clarita, CA 91321
661.255.6410
‫שלום בית‬
March 2013
A monthly publication of Temple Beth Ami
www.TempleBethAmi.org
Vol. 29 No. 03
Established 1987
From the Rabbi
Our modern world has seen tremendous
innovation and exciting breakthroughs in
medical technology. Yet, in no realm of
human existence has progress also proved
to be as ethically and emotionally
challenging as the Pandora’s Box opened by
our medical marvels. In addition, medical
care and insurance issues are some of the
biggest stresses on our national economy,
as well as our own personal financial
security.
facilitated by professionals in our community
and will be free of charge.
As a community we take seriously the
responsibility to help each other through life’s
challenges. As much as we look forward to
celebrating good days, and strive to provide
an environment that enhances enjoyment,
it’s in tough times that we are really counted
on to be supportive. Simply being there for
friends who are going through difficult
periods is critical. People always need to
have a sense of hope and sharing your
experiences and knowledge of navigating
these challenges can be a tremendous
mitzvah.
In the coming months the Wednesday
evening class will also be focusing on how
our tradition guides us in making ethical
decisions relating to health and life and
death issues. Already covered topics include
organ donation and euthanasia. Future
classes will dovetail with presentations and
include discussions on abortion, alcohol and
drug use, genetics and Jewish views on
afterlife.
Temple Beth Ami is dedicated to being a
bridge across troubled waters. And to help
as many as possible, keep an eye out for an
upcoming series of workshops starting this
month to help us with medical and ethical
dilemmas we face in today’s world, as well
as end of life choices to protect ourselves
and our families.
B’Shalom
Rabbi Mark Blazer
Our new Adult Education series is called “A
Matter of Life and Death.” Some of the
offerings will be PTSD, End of Life Planning,
Universal Health Care, Genetic Testing, Will
and Trust Creation. These classes will be
March 2013
To that end as well, our Wednesday evening
classes, from 7:00 8:30 pm, have moved
beyond Talmud study, to include Jewish
texts through the contemporary period. They
continue to be offered free of charge and will
be open to all adults seeking to learn and
discuss within an open discussion
framework.
As always, whatever challenges we face, we
will face them together.
A Special Shabbat Service dedicated to
Our Vets & PTSD
Featuring Dr. David Alcaras
Friday, March 8, 2013; 8:00 PM
UPCOMING EVENTS INCLUDE:
March 21: The Greatest Mitzvah: Caring for our Loved
Ones in Life & Death
April 16: “The Healthcare Movie”
May 9: The New Frontier of Genetics
Temple Beth Ami
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Mission Statement
for Temple Beth Ami
The purpose of the Reform Congregation shall
be to worship G-d, to promote Jewish education,
to ensure the continuity of the Jewish people, to
cultivate love, understanding, and enjoyment of
our Jewish heritage and to encourage
community involvement.
Rabbi Mark Blazer
[email protected]
Cantor Kenny Ellis
[email protected]
Board of Trustees:
Daniel Levine, President
[email protected]
John Stulman, Executive VP
[email protected]
Daniel Azani, Treasurer
[email protected]
Jennifer Ihrig, Secretary
[email protected]
Joyce Stein, Immediate Past President
[email protected]
Doreen Hawbecker – Membership
[email protected]
Sandi Hershenson – Religious & Ritual
[email protected]
Rick Kaufman – Ways & Means Trustee
[email protected]
Bill Schwartz – Facilities Trustee
[email protected]
Eddie Nathan – Trustee
Joe Rensin – Trustee
Chris Vila – Trustee
Rosemary Watson – Trustee
_____________________
Ofra Naylor – Bookkeeper
[email protected]
Michele Lobl – Receptionist
[email protected]
Judith Stolnitz – Education Director
[email protected]
_____________________________________
Preschool / Parent & Me
[email protected]
Jennifer Ihrig, Sisterhood President
[email protected]
Andy Steier, Men’s Club President
[email protected]
Rena Slabich, Chavurah Coordinator
[email protected]
TBAY (Temple Beth Ami Youth ages 10 – 12)
[email protected]
TeenAmi (ages 13 – 15)
[email protected]
Capital Campaign
[email protected]
Newsletter Editor
[email protected]
Newsletter advertising
[email protected]
Judaica Shop – [email protected]
March 2013
Silver Star Tribute
Temple Beth Ami will soon celebrate its 25th year as a
reform congregation in the Santa Clarita Valley! To
commemorate this important milestone, we are excited to
announce our “Silver Star Tribute” event, an evening of
comedy and music which will take place at The Canyon
Theatre Guild on April 28, 2013
Hundreds of influential people, including local sports
legends, celebrities, politicians and other notable guests
from the greater Los Angeles area will attend this
spectacular affair. Our “Silver Star Tribute” gala will
feature top-notch entertainment and a fantastic silent
auction designed to enable Temple Beth Ami to
strengthen its outreach to the greater Santa Clarita and
northern San Fernando Valley communities.
We cordially invite you to participate in making our “Silver
Star Tribute” event a success. Supporting Temple Beth
Ami will help us to achieve our goal of relocating into a
larger, multi-purpose facility that will better service our
ever-growing congregation and enable us to viably offer a
consistent slate of engaging academic, charitable and
social opportunities to the community at large.
Moreover, your 100% tax deductible contribution to
Temple Beth Ami’s “Silver Star Tribute” gala will help you
generate the exposure to and association with hundreds
of influential people in the Santa Clarita Valley and
greater Los Angeles area necessary to building and
maintaining your business.
There are many ways in which your company can be a
part of this very special evening. To maximize the effect
of your contribution, Temple Beth Ami has created
several corporate and private sponsorships tiers, all of
which are described in the enclosed Sponsorship
Information Sheet. The names of our sponsors will be
prominently displayed in all press releases, gala
advertising, signage and the Souvenir Tribute Book.
We will contact you by phone shortly to discuss this
opportunity in more detail, but should you require more
information in the meantime, we can be reached by e-mail
at [email protected].
On behalf of Temple Beth Ami, we hope we can count on
you to join us in this celebration.
Temple Beth Ami
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TEMPLE BETH AMI PRESENTS
“A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH”
AN ONGOING DISCUSSION OF HEALTH ISSUES FROM RELIGIOUS, SCIENTIFIC
AND ETHICAL PERSPECTIVES FEATURING EXPERTS IN THE FIELD
A Special Shabbat Service dedicated to
OUR VETS & PTSD
featuring
Dr. David Alcaras
Friday, March 8, 2013
8:00 PM
One of the greatest challenges facing our country is the care of our veterans as they return
from war. The long term effects of Post Traumatic Stress have only recently entered the
national discussion, and those who suffer are often stigmatized. Helping us understand
our responsibilities as citizens will be special guest Dr. David Alcaras.
Dr. Alcaras, Ph.D. served in Vietnam 1966-67 as a Paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division. He has been Administrative Dir. and Clinical Team Leader Sepulveda Vet. Center,
Dept. VA Rapid Response and has taught at CSU Bakersfield and UCLA.
at Temple Beth Ami • 23023 Hilse Lane, Newhall
UPCOMING EVENTS INCLUDE:
MARCH 21 - THE GREATEST MITZVAH: CARING FOR OUR LOVED ONES IN LIFE & DEATH
APRIL16 - “THE HEALTHCARE MOVIE” AND DISCUSSION
MAY 9 - THE NEW FRONTEIR OF GENETICS
Join us for these timely sessions which are offered free of charge as part of the ongoing Adult Education Programs and Community Outreach at Temple Beth Ami. For
more information regarding this class, or future classes, please call:
(661) 255-6410
www.templebethami.org
Education News for March & April
Our student sederim will be held at the end of March
right before break. Sunday school is on March 24 at
9AM. We will have Wendee helping Rabbi Mark lead
the children in this age old tradition. The Hebrew
School will be having theirs on March 21, led by our
own Zayen class (with help from Rabbi Mark). The
students are already prepping and very excited about
being in charge.If you would like to participate and
have not already been asked, please send me an email.
Spring break is 2 weeks this year, given when Pesah
(Passover) falls. There will be no school from
March 25 until April 8, 2013. Hebrew School is back
in session on April 9th. Sunday school is back on
April 14, with a regular schedule. If you can, spend
some time during the break together talking about
being Jewish and your child's Jewish education.
Go onto the Behrman House website
(www.behrmanhouse.com) for some extra Hebrew
Practice. It is a great way to review and keep their
brains working on their Hebrew. If they know it is
important to you, it will be important to them.
The Religious Schools are also running a food drive
during these months for the SCV Food pantry. We
are thinking about the time in our History when we
were slaves and didn't have much. We use the
lessons from the Seder to remember that there are
still many people "enslaved" to poverty and sickness.
Our collective experiences make us sensitive to those
in need. Please send non-perishables to the
synagogue to be delivered to the Food Pantry. If you
would rather donate cash, please feel free to send
checks (made out to the Pantry) or gift cards to TBA,
with your child or by mail, attention me. We will see
that the donations, both food and financial get to the
right place.
As the end of the year approaches, don't fall into the
trap of thinking there is nothing left to learn this year.
Hebrew School and Sunday school go through the
end of May. We will be teaching all the way through
the end and want your children here!!! Attendance at
class and their required Service attendance (Zayen
12 services; Vav 10 services; Hey 8 services; Dalet 6
services) helps reinforce their Judaism and their
learning.
Todah Raba for your support of our Synagogue and
Local communities,
Judith Stolnitz
[email protected]
March 2013
Get Well Cards
The Sisterhood still sends out get well cards for those
who are hospitalized, had surgery or are seriously ill
and, of course, sympathy cards. Please contact Hedy
Greenfield with your information (name & address) if
you would like a card sent by contacting Hedy by
submitting your request by contacting the Sisterhood.
Tree & Water Projects in Israel
Because we believe this is such an important
program Sisterhood is now offering it to you and your
families to honor life cycle and special events. Simply
fill out the form in the newsletter (on the Home Page)
and send it to TBA Sisterhood, 23023 Hilse Lane,
Santa Clarita, CA 91321. For one tree or one water
project the cost is just $18. That’s it! A certificate
indicating your gift will be sent directly from The
Jewish National Fund to your gift recipient. Should
you have any questions, please contact the
Sisterhood.
TBA’S ONEGS
Why is an Oneg important to have? It is a chance to
celebrate Shabbat. It is also a chance for you to see
people you don't ordinarily see during the week. It is a
stress free time to schmooze. It is an opportunity to
welcome new people to our synagogue.
Last year Sisterhood took over the financial
responsibility for the temple Onegs including the
high holidays. We are constantly looking for ways to
“up” the Oneg. At this time we are trying different
vendors to decide where to purchase food that of
“upped” quality and still stay within a reasonable
budget. The Oneg supplies such as the trays,
pitchers, etc. will also be replaced to have a more
uniform look.
There are two ways you can be part of these
changes. First, expanding the number of people who
assist with the Onegs is a necessity. You DO NOT
have to be a sisterhood member (though we hope
you will be) to lend a hand. A schedule has been set
up at
www.SignUpGenius.com/go/30E0D44AEAB283oneg/768470 for Oneg signups. Sign up for one or
more services. Your efforts will be appreciated more
than you know. The second way you can be part of
the Oneg tradition is to celebrate a special occasion
or milestone in your family (ex. birthday, anniversary,
graduation, special awards, etc.) by either making a
donation to oneg or sponsoring an oneg.
Oneg donations and sponsorships are available in
multiple levels of Chai. Please see the attached Oneg
Form for details. Any questions, please talk to
Jennifer or Nancy by contacting the Sisterhood.
Temple Beth Ami
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INFORMATION NIGHT Monday March 11th at 7:30 at TEMPLE BETH AMI
Camp Alonim is planning on having a bus to transport kids if there is enough interest, so please come out to the meeting. Please bring your friends. They do not have to be TBA members. Gan Alonim is for children entering Kindergarten through 6th grade.
The dates for Day Camp 2013 are as follows:
The day begins at 9:00AM and ends at 3:30PM.
Week 1: June 17 - June 21
Week 2: June 24 - June 28
Week 3: July 1 - July 5 (Gan will be closed on Thursday, July 4)
Week 4: July 8 - July 12
Week 5: July 15 - July 19
Week 6: July 22 - July 26
Week 7: July 29 - August 2
Week 8: August 5 - August 9
OVERNIGHT CAMP
First Session
For campers entering grades 3-9
June 18 – June 30
Mini Camp
For campers entering grades 2-7
June 23 – June 30
Second Session
For campers entering grades 3-10
July 2 – July 21
Third Session
For campers entering grades 3-10
July 23 – August 11
PLEASE COME MONDAY NIGHT FOR MORE INFORMATION.
KIDS WELCOME President’s Post
-
Daniel Levine
Last Saturday night I had the great pleasure to travel
to Westminster’s Temple Beth David for the annual
Men of Reformed Judaism (MRJ), “Man of the Year”
dinner. The wine was flowing and the food was great,
but that was only a side benefit of my attendance.
The highlight of the night was getting the opportunity
to stand and applaud for Temple Beth Ami’s Man of
the Year, Jeff Stein!
Jeff Stein (2nd from right) being honored by MRJ
representatives and Rick Kaufman (2nd from the
left) MRJ Western Region President
Perhaps summed up best by our own TBA Trustee
and MRJ Western Region President, Rick Kaufman,
during his introduction speech, “there are three
distinct tracks of Jewish life at Temple Beth Ami – the
religious; the cultural; and the social. Jeff can be
found at the center of each track.” While most TBA
congregants participate in one, or maybe at best, two
of these tracks, Jeff is one of the few congregants
who have found a way to combine all three into a
wonderful Jewish sundae, and his commitment to
mitzvot is the cherry on top!
Members of Temple Beth Ami since 2000; Jeff is the
2010 PASHA award recipient and is a regular at
virtually every TBA religious study program including
Talmud and Torah Study. He and his wife, Immediate
Past President Joyce Stein, are a continual presence
at Shabbat and religious holiday services. When it
comes to social events that TBA host like the recent
Casino Night or our annual Kosher Turkey Bowl
football game, you can count on Jeff to be there –
warmly greeting old friends and kindly welcoming new
ones. And no matter where the cultural event we are
hosting – from the trips to Israel led by Rabbi Blazer
to being in attendance at one of our many guest
speakers’ seminars hosted at TBA, Jeff will be there!
March 2013
Simply being there is not enough for Jeff – he
becomes part of the fabric of events. From manning
the grill at the recent TBA Purim Carnival to setting up
or breaking down chairs for group events, Jeff can be
counted on! And if that weren’t enough, Jeff is a
founding member of the Men’s Club and has been the
Treasurer for three years running!
What makes Jeff all the more special is that he
embodies the character traits we hope for our
children to grow up with! Jeff is a fighter as evidenced
by his courageous battle against, and victory over
Bladder Cancer! Jeff is a mentor to his son David (yet
one more Stein making TBA proud by way of his
service in the US Navy!)! Jeff is, to sum up, a true
Jewish role model!
Jeff and Joyce Stein
If you did not know Jeff and were to simply read this
article you might imagine him to be a “larger than life”
character – and you would be right! Don’t
misunderstand me; Jeff isn’t “larger than life” because
he is boisterous. You see he doesn’t need to be the
loudest man in the room to be among the most
respected, because Jeff has earned his respect
through his deeds. So please join me in applauding
our man of the year, Jeff Stein!
From L-R: Rick & BJ Kaufman; Jeff & Joyce Stein;
Adrienne & Daniel Levine
Temple Beth Ami
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Temple Beth Ami
Passover
Community
Seder
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Doors open at 6:00 P.M.
Seder starts at 6:30 P.M.
Fully catered, traditional meal and service
Valencia Hills Clubhouse
24060 Oak Vale, Valencia 91355
Under 3: Free // Ages 4 to 7: $15 // Ages 8 to 12: $20 // Ages 13 to Adult: $25.
Send payment to: Temple Beth Ami; Attn: Passover Seder;
23023 Hilse Lane, Santa Clarita, CA 91321
RSVP by email: [email protected]
Phone: 661.255.6410
Reservations must be received no later than March 21, 2013. Return the form below.

Name:
Address:
City:
State:
Zip:
Please specify:Children under 3 (Free) _____
Ages 8 – 12 ($20)
_____
Payment by: Check ___ Visa ____
Phone:
Ages 4 – 7 ($15)
13 yrs to Adult ($25)
_____
_____
Total Amount $____________
Credit Card # ___________________________________________ Exp. Date: _________
Printed Name: ____________________________________________________________
Signature: _______________________________________________________________
Please consider an extra donation for college students & needy families.
7
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tribute-flyer-rev
Tuesday, March 05, 2013 10:48:02 AM
SISTERHOOD HAPPENINGS . . .
Please take notice . . . and welcome to our new
sisterhood page on TBA’s new website. Please go to
[email protected] and hover your
mouse on the bold blue text on the page for links. If it
changes to a lighter blue, you can click on them for
more information and flyers! Please explore the
website and let us know your thoughts for content
and changes.
About the Temple Beth Ami Sisterhood
The Temple Beth Ami Sisterhood is an organization
of the women of our Congregation who have banded
together in friendship for programs to benefit the
Temple, for social activities, for study, and, above all,
for the growth of the individual so that each may find
an opportunity to fulfill her potential as a person and
as a Jewish woman. Sisterhood provides the arena
for the individual to expand and grow in a Jewish
atmosphere. Sisterhood can do whatever its
members feel would be valuable to them, their
families, their Congregation and their community.
Sisterhood needs the support of all of the women of
the Congregation. All of us, whether mother,
daughter, sister, aunt, or wives who are members of
Temple Beth Ami are needed as members of its
Sisterhood.
With that said, we look forward to your attending the
events we have planned for your enjoyment and also
appreciate your support as we have a full calendar of
events planned for 2013. Please look at our
Sisterhood Calendar so you can plan on attending
and being a part of our dynamic Sisterhood! Our
next meeting is on Sunday, January 6, 2013 at
9:00 a.m. We look forward to seeing you at the
events because without you we are one woman short!
MEMBERSHIP
Any new first year Temple Beth Ami member is
automatically a member of Sisterhood free of charge
(so you are always welcome to attend meetings and
events as a member). Sisterhood/WRJ membership
fees are set as follows: Basic membership ($36);
Sarah ($54); Leah ($90); Rachael ($180) (*levels w/
gift) and non-temple members ($46). Please contact
Membership Chair Gail Silver.
Books N Brunch Group
March 2, 2013 from 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Join Sisterhood's Books N Brunch Group on
Saturday, March 2, 2013 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00
p.m. at the home of Rosemary Watson in Santa
Paula to discuss the book called The Faith Club.
WOMEN’S SEDER
March 10, 2013 –Women’s Seder 2-5 P.M.
Join in us in service, song, dance, community and a
wonderfully prepared Seder. The annual SCV
Community Women’s Seder is taking place on the
second Sunday of March, March 10, 2013 from 2-5
pm at the Valencia Hills Clubhouse, located at 24060
Oak Vale Drive Santa Clarita, CA 91350. Our
community comes together with the women of
Temple Beth Shalom and we also invite clergy and
other prominent civic women to participate in our
annual Women’s Seder. Please RSVP Sisterhood
and/or through the Evite and forward your check to
TBA Sisterhood 23023 Hilse Lane, Newhall, CA
91321. Cost is $36 for Sisterhood Members and $40
for Non-Members. Please see flyer in newsletter and
on website.
WOMEN’S TORAH STUDY
The Women’s Torah Study Group will be meeting on
Saturday March 16 at 10:00 a.m. and will pick up
reading on page 259 with Parashah Vayigash. "The
reunion and reconciliation of Joseph, Jacob and the
Brothers".
SPRING BOUTIQUE
Do you have everything you need for Passover, or
maybe you want something new as you are having
company – or something new for your children or
grandchildren to make this holiday a lot of fun and a
great family experience? Then mark March 17, 2013
from 10 a.m. to 2 pm on your calendar and come
see the variety we have for you to shop and
schmooze at our Spring Holiday Boutique!
Event(s) We Just Had . . .
Our Sisterhood’s WOMEN’S RETREAT took place
February 8-10, 2013 at the Brandeis Camp in Simi
Valley which provided a setting of peace and
tranquility! It was fantastic! Upon arrival on Friday
Just Around the Corner . . . for March
WRJ SHABBAT SERVICE
Friday night, March 1, 2013 at 8:00 a.m. we will start
the Centennial celebration when our Sisterhood
participates in having its WRJ Shabbat service. If you
would like to participate in the special service, please
contact Doreen Hawbecker, our WRJ Rep, through
the sisterhood website.
Sisterhood Happenings – continued on next page
March 2013
Temple Beth Ami
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SCV Jewish Women’s COMMUNITY SEDER SUNDAY, MARCH 10, 2013 ð RSVP by March 5, 2013 [email protected] Send check to: Temple Beth Ami Sisterhood 23023 Hilse Lane, Newhall, CA 91321 $36 per person (non-­‐members $40) ð D E T A I L S March 10, 2013 2:00PM – 5:00PM Valencia Hills Club House 24060 Oak Vale Drive Santa Clarita, CA 91350 Please bring a dessert to share. 10
Sisterhood Happenings – continued
night to our closing circle Sunday at noon, this
Women’s Retreat left each of the 13 women that
attended feeling like they really had experienced
something very special. We have to thank Tracy
Blazer and Judith Stolnitz for putting together a
perfectly planned retreat which defined the phrase we
have all heard “timing is everything,” as the Women’s
Retreat took place right before Purim! Everything
about the weekend just seemed to flow and
everything seemed connected. The theme was the
story of the Book of Esther and how each of us wear
masks set the stage. Judith Stolnitz did an excellent
job in leading our very enjoyable two discussion
groups (which also included the story of Yentl)
reflecting the masks that Esther and Yentl both wore
in order to achieve their goals and how each of us
wear different masks at different times in our own
lives.
We also cannot thank enough our own Wendy Hersh
and Terry Lieberman in providing the lead of voice
and music for these spiritual experiences that bonded
the retreat participants. It was evident these women
came together to enjoy each other’s company for this
Women’s Retreat. Thank you to each leader and
attendee for a truly unforgettable moving experience.
I know that each of these women will attend the next
Women’s Retreat in two years and in seeing each
other soon! We hope that more of you will plan on
coming too so start saving your pennies now
Spa Day
Believe it or not . . . there is still time to still enjoy
getting services discounted that will add and
contribute to the Religious School Scholarship Fund.
Simply contact Balance Point Spa and book a service
through March 31, 2013. Here is how you can
contribute:
 60 minute massage: You get $5 off; Fund gets
$10 (Reg. $75)
 90 minute massage: You get $7 off; Fund gets
$13 (Reg. $100)
 Classic Facial (60 min.) You get $6 off; Fund gets
$10 (Reg. $80)
 Euphoric Facial (90 min.) You get $9 off; Fund
gets $15 (Reg. $120)
Balance Point Spa is located at 18285 Soledad
Canyon Road, Canyon Country, 661-252-0650.
WRJ (Women for Reform Judaism) News
The theme was tied to our art project in which our
very own and talented Doreen Hawbecker taught us
each how to make our very own masks! It was
amazing to see how each one was so beautiful and
individual – to each of our own amazement!
Each morning we started our day with a Yoga class
led by our also wonderful Yoga Teacher Mary
Fuchsman (yes – she is great at this too!) Each of us
acknowledged how inspired we were by the
spirituality we experienced as individuals and as a
bonded group when we sang together Friday and
Saturday evening in the Rotunda at Brandeis.
The WRJ is celebrating its 100 year anniversary in
2013! There will be several festivities honoring the
100 year Centennial of the WRJ this year. Please go
to www.wrj.org to learn more!
Some other WRJ event dates worth mentioning and
for you to SAVE THE DATE! (More details will be
following!)
April 7, 2013:
Yes Fund luncheon at Temple Beth
Hillel at Valley Village
July 14, 2013:
Sisterhood Area Day
Dec 11-15,
2013:
100th year Centennial Convention to
take place in San Diego, California.
In celebration of the Centennial each Sisterhood has
been asked by the WRJ to make a donation of 100
items of one type of item. Our sisterhood has
decided to collect 100 pairs of lightly used shoes.
Information for when we will start this collection will
be coming shortly as well. Look out for when we
have a special meeting in which those that participate
will help make our sisterhood’s wall hanging which
will be donated to the WRJ in honor of the
Centennial.
March 2013
Temple Beth Ami
11
TBA SISTERHOOD
BOOKS AND BRUNCH
Join us for a discussion on My Russian Grandmother
and her American Vacuum by Meir Shalev
When:
Sat, May 4, 2013
Time:
10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Where: At the home of Diana Sotela
RSVP:
[email protected]
From the author of the acclaimed novel A Pigeon and a Boy comes a
charming tale of family ties, over-the-top housekeeping, and the sport of
storytelling in Nahalal, the village of Meir Shalev’s birth. Here we meet
Shalev’s amazing Grandma Tonia, who arrived in Palestine by boat from
Russia in 1923 and lived in a constant state of battle with what she
viewed as the family’s biggest enemy in their new land: dirt.
Grandma Tonia was never seen without a cleaning rag over her
shoulder. She received visitors outdoors. She allowed only the most
privileged guests to enter her spotless house. Hilarious and touching,
Grandma Tonia and her regulations come richly to life in a narrative that
circles around the arrival into the family’s dusty agricultural midst of the
big, shiny American sweeper sent as a gift by Great-uncle Yeshayahu
(he who had shockingly emigrated to the sinful capitalist heaven of Los
Angeles!). America, to little Meir and to his forebears, was a land of
hedonism and enchanting progress; of tempting luxuries, dangerous
music, and degenerate gum-chewing; and of women with painted
fingernails. The sweeper, a stealth weapon from Grandpa Aharon’s
American brother meant to beguile the hardworking socialist household
with a bit of American ease, was symbolic of the conflicts and visions of
the family in every respect.
The fate of Tonia’s “svieeperrr”—hidden away for decades in a spotless
closed-off bathroom after its initial use—is a family mystery that Shalev
determines to solve. The result, in this cheerful translation by Evan
Fallenberg, is pure delight, as Shalev brings to life the obsessive but
loving Tonia, the pioneers who gave his childhood its spirit of wonder,
and the grit and humor of people building ever-new lives.
.
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2012 WRJ Pacific District Kavod Award One Time Fundraiser
At the 2012 Convention for the Women for Reform
Judaism's Pacific District, the Sisterhood from
Temple Beth Ami became an award winning
Sisterhood! If you go to the website,
www.wrj.pacificdistrict.org, you can see that we were in
good company! Temple Beth Ami Sisterhood of Santa
Clarita was awarded the 2012 Eleanor Krezter Kavod
Award for its One Time Fundraiser for its Spa Day
Fundraiser held on March 27, 2011 and January 15,
2012. As a result of its success, “Spa Day” has
become an annual one-day fundraiser for the
sisterhood. Pictures from the past Spa Day will be on
the website shortly!
Just remember – without you participating in TBA’s
Sisterhood events we are one woman short!
We have a
collection bin in
the sanctuary – so
you can give all
year round. Grab
a can from your
pantry and bring it
with you when
you come to the
synagogue.
Jewish Big Brothers / Big Sisters
For almost 100 years, Jewish Big Brothers Big Sisters
of Los Angeles (JBBBSLA) has provided free,
professionally-supported, one-to-one mentoring to
Jewish boys and girls. These relationships provide
children with support and guidance, enabling them to
explore their needs and interests through consistent
outings with a dedicated, adult friend.
In order to continue to serve Jewish youth in Los
Angeles, we need your help in getting the word out!
JBBBSLA matches Jewish children between the ages
of 6 and 18 with Jewish volunteers 21 and older. If
you’d like to learn more about becoming a “Big” or
“Little”, please call (323) 761-8675 or check out our
website at www.jbbbsla.org
THANK YOU SO MUCH!
Talia Katzir, MBA; Marketing & Outreach Associate
Jewish Big Brothers Big Sisters of Los Angeles
& The Foundation for Camp Max Straus
[email protected] • www.jbbbsla.org
“Like” us on facebook! www.facebook.com/jbbbsla
Shout Outs!


Mitzvah Opportunities

Newsletter Editor:
Temple Beth Ami needs a new newsletter
editor for the Synagogue’s monthly
newsletter. If you have Microsoft Word or
Publisher skills and want to become more
involved with Temple Beth Ami, contact
Joyce Stein
[email protected]
Community Seder Tuesday, March
26th. Need help with set-up and take
down of the Seder. Contact:
[email protected]
Valencia Hills Clubhouse.
March 2013




Temple Beth Ami
Thank you Nancy
Troxell for your
donation from the sale
of real estate sales
from Temple members.
Thank you to Nancy
Lepore for chairing the
Purim Carnival and
shlepping to get the
Hamantaschen.
Thank you to the
Men’s Club for
sponsoring the Purim
Carnival Bouncers and
the food. Thank you to Ian Bratslavsky, Rick
Kaufman, and Jeff Stein for staffing the grill
for the yummy food.
Thank you especially to the Wendy Hersh
and the Purim Speil Choir for the entertaining
Purim musical spoof of Wizard of Oz.
Thank you Cantor Kenny for sharing your
sweet memories of Debbie Friedman.
Thank you to Eddie Nathan for picking up the
eBlast duties.
Congratulations to Jeff Stein for being the
Men’s Club – Man of the Year.
13
TEMPLE BETH AMI PRESENTS
“A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH”
AN ONGOING DISCUSSION OF RELIGIOUS, SCIENTIFIC AND ETHICAL ISSUES
FEATURING EXPERTS IN THE FIELD
the greatest mitzvah
Caring for Our Loved Ones in Life and Death
featuring
Deborah CarrNahmias
Thursday, March 21, 2013
7:00 PM
For ages, the mission of caring for the dead has been considered one of Judaism’s greatest mitzvot;
it’s one which the person for whom it’s being performed cannot repay. While always a difficult
discussion, it is imperative for us to consider what plan we have in place for burial when our own
time comes. Within that decision is a whole host of ethical, financial and religious considerations.
Deborah CarrNahmias has been on the staff of Eden Memorial for over seven years, and as a
member of the Dignity group of cemeteries and mortuaries, is also responsible for care at Eternal
Valley in Santa Clarita.
at Temple Beth Ami • 23023 Hilse Lane, Newhall
UPCOMING EVENTS INCLUDE:
APRIL16 - “THE HEALTHCARE MOVIE” AND DISCUSSION
MAY 9 - THE NEW FRONTEIR OF GENETICS
Join us for these timely sessions which are offered free of charge as part of the ongoing Adult Education Programs and Community Outreach at Temple Beth Ami. For
more information regarding this program, or future programs, please call:
(661) 255-6410
www.templebethami.org
14
15
10
3
17
24
18
Passover 25
Passover April 1
1 Seder in evening
st
4
11
Sisterhood Mtg 7pm
7:30pm @ TBA
Camp Alonim
Information Mtg
Mon
19
No Religious School
Torah Study 9 AM
Passover ends at 7:54pm
Passover April 2
Community Seder 6 pm
Valencia Hills Clubhouse
No Religious School
Torah Study 9 AM
Passover 26
Eat 4 TBA – Chili’s
Religious School 4-6PM
Torah Study 9 AM
Mommy & me
playgroup 10 am
5
12
Religious School 4-6PM
No Torah Study
Religious School 4-6PM
Torah Study 9 AM
Tue
Wed
6
7
Temple Board Meeting 7:30PM
No Religious School
April 4
No Religious School
Passover 28
15
8 PM Shabbat Service
Open/Close: Levine
6:30 PM Family Shabbat
April 5
8 PM Shabbat Service
Open/Close: Vila
Passover 29
8 PM Shabbat Service
Open/Close: Watson
22
8 PM Shabbat Service
Open/Close: Ihrig
April 6
Passover 30
23
16
10 AM Women’s Torah
Study
9
MRJ Man of the Year
8 PM Shabbat Service
Open/Close: Nathan
8
Books n Brunch 10:30am
– 12:00pm
8 PM Shabbat Service
Guest Speaker
Open/Close: Rensin
2
Sat
1
Fri
Family Shabbat Dinner
6:30 PM Family Shabbat
Gan & Aleph Class
April 20 – Scavenger hunt event
th
April 28 – Silver Star Tribute 25 Anniversary 7PM
Adult Education 7 PM
April 3
Adult Education 7 PM
Passover 27
Model Seder for Religious
School 4-6PM
Adult Education 7 PM
The Greatest Mitzvah –
Presentation series 1 of 3
7PM Caring for Loved
Ones …
21
Confirmation Class 7-8:30p
Religious School 4-6PM
14
Temple Board Meeting 7:30PM
Confirmation 7-8:30PM
Religious School 4-6PM
Thu
20
No Adult Education
13
Adult Education 7 PM
April 8 – Holocaust Remembrance Day
April 16 – The Greatest Mitzvah, Series 2 of 3 – The Healthcare Movie
Coming up later in April
No Sunday School
Passover 31
All classes 9:00 – 11am
Sunday School
Model Seder
Leadership Retreat 12pm
Spring Boutique 10am-2pm
K & 2: 9 – 10:30 AM
1 & 3: 10:45 – 12:15 PM
Sunday School
Women’s Seder 2-5PM
Valencia Hills Clubhouse
K & 2: 9 – 10:30 AM
1 & 3: 10:45 – 12:15 PM
Sunday School
K & 2: 9 – 10:30 AM
1 & 3: 10:45 – 12:15 PM
Sunday School
Sun
Temple Beth Ami
March 2013 / Adar - Nissan 5772
Birthdays
Mathew Wykoff
Michael Bratslavsky
Lucas Fisher
Andrew Hirsch
Paul Levine
Danielle Azani
Sean Goodman
Eve Rumley
David Watson
Brooke Singerman
Daniel Kaplan
David Rosen
Hannah Rubin
NancyTroxell
1-Mar
3-Mar
4-Mar
5-Mar
6-Mar
8-Mar
8-Mar
10-Mar
11-Mar
11-Mar
13-Mar
14-Mar
14-Mar
15-Mar
Steve Fleetwood
Samuel Frank
Zack Kaufman
Sandy Kyte
Daryl Bibicoff
Florence Silver
Daniel Levine
Mitch Pearlman
Marni Kelton
Ari Schneider
Joshua Semko
Jacob Fuchsman
William Davis
Dillon Fisher
16-Mar
16-Mar
16-Mar
16-Mar
17-Mar
17-Mar
18-Mar
18-Mar
18-Mar
18-Mar
18-Mar
20-Mar
21-Mar
23-Mar
Victor CarrNahmias
Samuel Silver
Judith Winokur
Bob Levine
Fred Kreger
Tyler Bernstein
Erica Singerman
Frederick Jonas
Kayleigh Bullon
Lindsay Hersh
Jordan Schneider
Zoey Schneider
Daniel Fields
Alexander Lasky
24-Mar
24-Mar
24-Mar
27-Mar
28-Mar
28-Mar
28-Mar
29-Mar
29-Mar
30-Mar
30-Mar
30-Mar
31-Mar
31-Mar
Anniversaries
Marshall and Shelley Hann
Jeff and Mary Fuchsman
Bob and Jennifer Rappoport
Samuel and Gail Silver
Carol and George Lutza
Alan and Denise Youngwood
1-Mar
2-Mar
3-Mar
4-Mar
5-Mar
13-Mar
Jason and Anna Lief
Ian and Robin Bratslavsky
Wendy and Eddie Hersh
Chris and Sally Vila
Alan and Lisa Wykoff
Alan and Esther Sternin
15-Mar
16-Mar
22-Mar
22-Mar
30-Mar
31-Mar
Yahrzeits
Ida Brill
Jerry Goldberg
Tania Kraner
Sondra Fogel
Max Horowitz
Mike Mandel
Rhoda Oster
Eva Reiff
Sheila Adler
Irving Siegel
Marjorie Weitzman
Herman Hornstein
Jean Oppenheim
Philip Nach
Jennie Ellis
Samuel Schwartz
Daniels
Samuel Skura
1-Mar
1-Mar
1-Mar
3-Mar
4-Mar
4-Mar
4-Mar
4-Mar
4-Mar
6-Mar
7-Mar
7-Mar
8-Mar
8-Mar
9-Mar
10-Mar
11-Mar
11-Mar
Kaye Sheftz
Joan Berger
Howard Schwartz
Albert Lipson
William Orr
Max Rudoff
Aaron Brill
Lawrence Cohen
Sadie Fuchsman
Max Mazorow
Etcyl Fleetwood
Ryan Gaynor
Hinda Adler
Jerry Vosen
Robert Lewis
David Ambach-Webb
Paula Ambach-Webb
Regine Ross
Charlotte Arenstein
12-Mar
12-Mar
13-Mar
14-Mar
14-Mar
15-Mar
15-Mar
16-Mar
17-Mar
18-Mar
18-Mar
18-Mar
20-Mar
20-Mar
21-Mar
21-Mar
22-Mar
23-Mar
23-Mar
Hyman Eller
Arnold Lampert
Jack Savransky
Ida Balmagia
Ruth Bibicoff
William Halpern
Julia Nahmias
Leonard Baron
Seldon Mars
Marilyn Savransky
Derrick Thomas
Helen Weinberg
Sara Berman
David Gorecki
Margaret Thorsen
Louis Troyan
Ruth Schuyler
Phyllis Shapiro
Gladys Woods
23-Mar
24-Mar
24-Mar
24-Mar
24-Mar
25-Mar
25-Mar
25-Mar
25-Mar
26-Mar
26-Mar
26-Mar
26-Mar
26-Mar
26-Mar
27-Mar
27-Mar
28-Mar
28-Mar
* Denotes a Memorial Plaque has been donated in their honor
Help us update the Birthdays, Anniversaries, and Yahrzeits. If a date is missing, please let us know so we can update our
database. Contact: [email protected]
For Yahrzeits, if your parents, siblings, spouse, or children (the traditional family for mourning) have died and their date is not
listed here, please let us know. Contact: [email protected] to update our database.
March 2013
Temple Beth Ami
16
MAD DOG’s Gamers Paradise
As seen at the Purim Carnival
Mad Dog's Gamers Paradise is the ultimate mobile video
game and laser tag party experience for birthday parties,
fund raisers, corporate and community events. Gamers
Paradise is a 30’ climate-controlled Recreational Vehicle with
the latest multiplayer games on xBox 360, Wii and PS3
connected to six 52” high definition LCD TVs. For
guaranteed ultimate fun, book Mad Dog's Gamer
Paradise. Call: 1.877-Hey-Mad-Dog
March 2013
Temple Beth Ami
17
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19
20
21
*
*
March 2013
Temple Beth Ami
22