2005 Happy Chanukah! !
Transcription
2005 Happy Chanukah! !
December 2005 CHESHVAN -KISLEV 5766 Chanukah’s light brings warmth and joy There are as many legends concerning the holiday of Chanukah as there are ways to spell it. Chanukah means dedication. Traditionally it celebrates the dedication of the altar in the Temple in Jerusalem by Judah and his Hasmonean army. Originally the holiday may have been a replacement for Passover, which had not been observed during the repressive rule of Antiochus Epiphanes. This would include the eight days of observing Passover and might also include the custom of Simhat bet ha-Sho’eveh, in which torches and lamps were lit in the courts of the Temple and throughout the city of Jerusalem. Chanukah eventually went from being a Temple-based festival to becoming a popular family holiday. This ensured its survival to our day. There was a famous discussion between the two leading religious schools in Jerusalem about the sequence of the lighting of the Chanukah menorah. The house of Shammai wanted all eight candles lit on the first night. On each night thereafter the numtora h ber of candles lit is to be reduced by one. The house of Hillel, however, stated that by mel ja n is & there should be one jeff s h u lma n candle lit the first night progressing until they are all lit on the last night. What does Chan-ukah have to do with Christmas? Nothing. Christmas has its own traditions. One could write a book about the host of ancient customs which come together in the holiday called Christmas. The unifying theme, which is intrinsic to both Chanukah and Christmas, is the utilization of light. At one point Chanukah was called Urim (lights). The warmth and joy that light brings during the cold, dark days of winter is something that the people demand. Even in ancient times people used these days as a time for socializing and having fun. It is interesting that there is so much emphasis on children’s welfare during these holidays. Even though giving presents is a relatively new tradition, Chanukah has survived because people want to celebrate. It is not one of our religion’s major, or even religious holidays. We may try to give it a more serious meaning, such as rededicating ourselves to something or as an example of the necessity of religious freedom, but the holiday is really about the wonder of light. Children love both Chanukah and Christmas because the lights give them comfort when the days are short and darkness comes early. So light those menorahs, sing some songs, open some presents and remember the deeds of Mattathias and his sons. Happy Chanukah!! ta lk S Noah, Zach and Ben Korduner celebrate Chanukah. A M N I A SWE A I NO EPIN June 9th Shabbat ‘Homecoming’ Service to honor Sonia Liberman G TA S See page 5 PULPIT CALENDAR FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2 8 p.m. Erev Shabat Services with Rabbi Lutz and Cantor Linsky; Men’s Club Shabbat; Torah portion: Toldot (Genesis 25:19-28:9) SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3 9:30 a.m. Tot Shabbat Services with Rabbi Brown in the Rothenberg Chapel 10:30 a.m. DANIEL KOODEN, Bar Mitzvah Son of Greg & Susan Kooden 5 p.m. SHAINA ROBERTS, Bat Mitzvah Daughter of David Roberts and Michele Roberts FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9 8 p.m. Erev Shabbat Services with Rabbi Deitsch and Cantor Linsky; Torah portion: Vayetzei (Genesis: 28:10-31:54) Santa Clarita Connection Shabbat Dinner and Service with Rabbi Lutz. Services will begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Northbridge Point Club House located at 27595 Cunningham Drive, Valencia, CA. There will be a "Potluck” Dinner before the service starting at 6 p.m. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10 10:30 a.m. JACOB MERMELL, Bar Mitzvah Son of Steven and Rachel Mermell 5 p.m. CODY RAPPORT, Bar Mitzvah Son of Jeffrey and Abbie Rapport Religious School Board of Education Committee We want to introduce you to the TAS Religious School Board of Education Committee. Many of you may not know that we exist or what our role entails within the Temple. We are made up of congregants, professional staff and teacher representatives who come together to promote the well-being of our Religious School, which spans from Kindergarten to Confirmation. How do we do this? As part of our continuing support of the school, we put together school fundraising events, the Avodah program, teacher appreciation Shabbat and the Community Education Day, to name just a few. The committee also took on the tremendous task this past year of getting our school re-accredited. This year our goal is to continue the tremendous work done by the committee in the past, as well as examine the school’s Educational Vision Statement and Parent Handbook. We would also like to open up more lines of communication between the parents and teachers. Therefore, we have created a new e-mail address, [email protected], with the hopes that you will share your comments with us. We’d like to hear what we’re doing right, as well as ideas, suggestions, and concerns you have regarding the school. Of course, the professional staff is always available to talk to you, but this e-mail address will offer another way for congregants to be heard. So send us your e-mails. They will be read and distributed, if appropriate, to the proper parties by the co-chairs of this committee. We invite your participation on this committee. Please contact us should you have any questions. Remember, you can reach us at [email protected]. School Board Committee Co-Chairs Robert Cohn and Gail Karlin FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16 7:30 p.m. Erev Shabbat Services with Rabbi Brown and Cantor Linsky; Torah portion: Vayishlach (Genesis 32:136:43) SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17 10:30 a.m. JOSHUA STEPAKOFF, Bar Mitzvah Son of Alan Stepakoff and Loren Lieb 5 p.m. ZAKERY JOHNS, Bar Mitzvah Son of Ira and Arlene Johns FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23 8 p.m. Erev Shabbat Services with Rabbi Lutz and Cantor Linsky; Torah portion: Vayeshev (Genesis 37:1-40:23) You’re invited to Tot Shabbat Don’t forget about Tot Shabbat! Our next two Tot Shabbat services are on Dec. 3 and Jan. 7 at 9:30 a.m. Thanks to our Tot Shabbat sponsors for November: The Korduner Family and The Shapiro Family For only $18 you can honor a loved one for their birthday, anniversary or just to say “I love you,” by becoming a Tot Shabbat Sponsor. Forms are available in the ECEC office. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30 8 p.m. Erev Shabbat Services with Rabbi Deitsch and Cantor Linsky; Torah portion: Miqeitz (Genesis 41:1-44:34) The Menorah is printed on recycled paper. Page 2 • Temple Ahavat Shalom } save the date S U N D A Y , A P R I L 2 , 2 0 0 6 6th Annual Sylvia Alster Memorial Event A PHENOMENAL MUSICAL EVENING Visit the TAS website at www.tasnorthridge.org High Holiday Heroes Parenting column debuts Dear Bina Dealing with bedtime This month we are starting a column offering parenting advice. If you have parenting questions or concerns, write to "Bina" and we will attempt to respond in coming months in this column. Please be assured that all names will be changed to protect the innocent! Cantor Ed Robin, Choir Director Terry Wollman and Cantor Patti Linsky notes from cantor linsky Music is in the air... • Join the Junior Choir in prayer for our 7:30 p.m. service on Dec. 16 • Join me for our 2006 Cantor's Concert on Saturday evening, Jan. 21, honoring the 40th Anniversary of Temple Ahavat Shalom, aptly called “As Time Goes By!” B'shira, Cantor Patti Linsky Dear Bina: HELP! I can't get my 5-year-old to sleep at a reasonable hour. He finds all kinds of things to do when it's time for bed. After I've begged, pleaded, and even bribed him to get into his bed, he doesn't stay there for long. He'll get up repeatedly to see what my husband and I are doing. Or he says there's a monster in his room. And sometimes he even gets into our bed late at night (which doesn't help our private time). What's a mother to do? Sarah Dear Sarah: What a healthy child you have! If this is the worst thing that your delightful 5-year-old does, then you're very fortunate. You don't mention if you have other children, are currently pregnant, are a working or stay-at-home Mom. So I'll keep it simple: First, start to tell him that you are all starting a new routine in the household. Keep your explanation or discussion age-appropriate and short. Such as "Starting tonight, Billy, you are going to bed at 8 p.m." Next go over the night time routine with him. Get him involved in the choices he has. For example, "Would you like a story first or your bath first?" The more power you give him over his choices, the more cooperative he will become. Plus, it's an opportunity to teach him about the repercussions to his actions and choices. Let him know he can renegotiate his choice for the next night as you find a routine that is comfortable. Also, make sure your husband (and any other older children in the home) are working with you, and not against you. Tell them what the plan is and how to help get Billy to bed on time. When bed time arrives, praise your son at every opportunity for being cooperative and for acting like a big school boy (name the grade he is in). A wonderful and comforting addition to the routine is the saying of the "Shema" as a bedtime prayer. Continued on page 11 Visit the TAS website at www.tasnorthridge.org Temple Ahavat Shalom • Page 3 men’sc clubmanifest club news Attention bridge players: TAS’ bridge group needs new players. We play once a month and accept beginners as well as mavens. Contact Barry Mann at 360-8881 for more details. Totally Active Seniors Totally Active Seniors (TAS) meet every Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Temple. We receive a complete lunch, including beverage, for $2. After lunch we have entertainment that might be bingo, current events, movies or other pursuits. If interested in joining, please call Rhoda Dane, Membership Chairman, at 818-787-1392, for further information. A season of thanks Being that I write this in the season of “Thanksgiving,” I would like to express how blessed l am to be President of the Men’s Club and have such an incredible support group of people working for the common good of all. Joe Blachman: As a past president, Joe certainly has the right to hide under a blanket. Instead he and Robyn are as active as ever. Last month’s Chanukah Boutique is a perfect example. One day before the boutique I remembered that the Men’s Club provides food for the event. With a panic call to Joe, l found out he had everything handled, food ordered and volunteers committed. Thanks, Joe, for your incredible willingness to support the Temple and Men’s Club. Robert Ingrum: As a past, past President, Bob could certainly find some extra room under Joe’s blanket, but just like Joe, he is even more active than ever. As a current Vice President on the TAS Executive Board, chairman of numerous committees, finding speakers for our meetings, or just lending a hand for virtually anything that’s needed, Bob is there – and he’s an exceptional human being. My Executive Committee: Marc Herman, Eddie Zager, Joel Lowell and Brian Hatkoff handle virtually anything that Joe or Bob leave open. The rest of the support crew is every member. The Men’s Club is truly a group of remarkable people committed to making a difference at Temple Ahavat Shalom. Future schedule of events: Every year the Men’s Club hosts a special Shabbat service. This year was unique in that Mel Janis created a special Shabbat service. Our next monthly meeting will be Sunday, Jan. 8, at 8:30 a.m., and open to all. Thank you for making my role as President as easy as it is, and Happy Chanukah. Jerry Hilecher President, TAS Men’s Club Construction for the future For these two families Mitzvah Day, Nov. 6, meant more than giving a helping hand. Robin and Justin Gore, and Brian, Cheryl and Lewis Hatkoff, helped out at Habitat for Humanity. Doing something good together as a family was part of it. Even more meaningful was that the “kids” could see something that they worked on that was going to help another family in a few months, by helping to build a house and making it into a home for a deserving family. We were there for only six hours. It didn’t seem like we were accomplishing much, other than putting up drywall in the kitchen. That’s all we did. We made some comments on the amount of work we completed that could have been done by a Page 4 • Temple Ahavat Shalom professional in a quarter of the time. Didn’t seem like we had much impact. After most people left, we spoke to the site supervisor, and we were able to see a completed home which was occupied by one of those deserving families. The Gores and Hatkoffs prepare to work. We had seen a room go from studs to drywall, and then see someone living in a finished home just like the one we worked on. The fact that this family was so incredibly appreciative of the efforts of the volunteers is what made a huge impact on both kids and adults alike. That’s when it came together, when our little contribution meant so much to someone else. This is what made the difference. We are ready to go back next year, and probably a few times during the year. Anyone want to join us? Let us know. Thanks to Mitzvah Day, we received an education and an experience. The Hatkoffs and the Gores Visit the TAS website at www.tasnorthridge.org Looking back at life in Mrs. Liberman’s class The success of a congregation does not rest on the opulence of its sanctuary or the beauty of its bimah, but rather on the people who make up the congregation. Over the past 40 years, Temple Ahavat Shalom has built a legacy through the thousands who have participated in its services and programs, celebrated life cycle events and passed through its religious school. However, one individual who is – and continues to be – at the core of this legacy and Temple Ahavat Shalom’s history is Sonia Liberman. Although diminutive in stature, Mrs. Liberman, as she is known by all, has left a giant footprint on TAS and its religious school. As part of its 40th anniversary celebration, TAS will honor Mrs. Liberman during a special Shabbat service on Friday, June 9, 2006. This is the first in a series of articles that will feature memories of Mrs. Liberman’s students over the past 40 years. Of Marching, Matzo Cakes and Being a Mensch Judy Edgers Alban admits to "being scared to death" when she first met Mrs. Liberman in 1971 in her Aleph class. "She was pretty overwhelming, but then I really grew to love her. She had a way about her, and we knew she really cared." Fast forward to 2001 and Judy’s daughter, Liora, has a similar reaction. "I had Mrs. Liberman for Aleph. Everyone said how great she was, but I was pretty scared and nervous. She came off as very gruff. But I learned pretty quickly that she really does care about every student, even when she sounds upset. Now, every time I see her, I Liora and Judy Alban hug her. I even invited her to my Bat Mitzvah!" During the three years she had Mrs. Liberman as a teacher, Judy took away many fond memories. Among her favorites was Mrs. Liberman’s traditional march up the hill to receive the Ten Commandments on Shavuot. She recalls, "This was long before there were houses north of Rinaldi. Mrs. Liberman had us carve little tablets out of bars of soap and then we marched across the street and up the hill to receive our little Ten Commandments tablets." Joan Krimston was in Mrs. Liberman’s class just one year after Judy. Neither woman can forget Mrs. Liberman’s ‘famous’ matzo cake creation. Joan elaborated, "For Passover, she brought matzos to class and drizzled Manischevitz wine on them. Then we smothered and layered them with canned chocolate frosting and sprinkles. I’ve never tasted anything like it! It truly is a Passover tradition." Today, Joan’s 9-year-old son, Zach Korduner, is in Mrs. Liberman’s Aleph class. While he hasn’t yet tasted her “famous” matzo cakes, he already has a warm spot in his heart for Mrs. Liberman. "She isn’t like other teachers who always tell us to be quiet," he said. "She wants us to talk about things so we really learn. I think it is cool that she taught my mom and now she is my teacher!" Joan summed up best why Mrs. Liberman continues to be so well loved by past and current students. "She doesn’t just teach religion or Hebrew. She teaches her students how to be a part of our world in a good, positive way. The most important thing she taught us was how to be a mensch!" Terri Jonisch If you have a special memory from Mrs. Liberman’s class you would like to share, please let us know by contacting us at [email protected] Joan Krimston and Zach Korduner As Something for Sonia Visit the TAS website at www.tasnorthridge.org we prepare to honor our dear teacher Sonia Liberman on her 40th anniversary at TAS, we want to invite alumni of our Hebrew and Religious Schools to join the congregation on this special evening. We need your help to contact our former students, many of whom have left the city and the state. If you have names, addresses and/or e-mail addresses of former TAS students and their families, please send them or drop them off at the office or e-mail them to TASLibermanGrad@ aol.com. We hope to have dozens of former TAS students on hand on the night of June 9 to make this evening very special for Sonia. If you would like to work on the event, call Cheryl Hatkoff at 818701-7789. Temple Ahavat Shalom • Page 5 spotlight on sisterhood We look forward to hearing from you Sisterhood does it again! I begin with an apology for the misspelling of Kevyn Klein’s name in the November Menorah article. And, we had the wrong information for Samantha Toder, who is now a student at Pierce and majoring in journalism. When we become aware of any other errors, we will correct them in the next month’s article. We also look forward to hearing about our alumni who are not in school as to place of employment or interests. We want to express our gratitude to Sue Bierman, Mindy Free, Mary Lou Gordon, Melissa Kassan and Lyndsey Weiss for helping put together the New Year packages. This is always a group effort and we appreciate having many people who are anxious to participate. More Alumni Updates: UC Santa Barbara – Kami Caskey, Matthew Cohen, Jamie Gold, Rachel Goldman, Jason Kassan, Jeff Spry, Jason Matthews and Lauren Brill are UCSB graduates. Jessica Levin also graduated from UCSB and is an Account Executive for the Dodger Radio Network (KFWB). UC Santa Cruz – Dori Daniels, Nesa Londer and Stacy Shearer. Zena Namson and Sari Gelzer are UC Santa Cruz graduates. UCLA – Adam Bierman, Tori Morton, Alana Schnee and Elana Simon. Aaron Feinstein and Jessica Moss are UCLA graduates. CSU San Diego – Amanda Arsenault, Michael Berlin, Danny Lax, Cindie Rahm and Jonathan Singer. UC San Diego – Neal Bloom and Adam Lutz. Melissa Cherney is a graduate of UCSD and currently is in a Masters in Engineering program there. As we begin a new fiscal year for our program, please remember Alumni Outreach when you are making donations as you honor or memorialize your loved ones. We express our heartfelt thanks to all of the families who have made donations to our Alumni program. B’shalom, Wendy Krowne and Debbie Weiss, TAS Sisterhood Alumni Chairs 360-2732 • 360-3576 [email protected] • [email protected] Are you finished with your Chanukah shopping? Do you still need that perfect gift? Come check out our Sisterhood Judaica Shop! We have a new, exciting collection of Chanukah items, including some spectacular menorahs and dreidels for display or use. We have other gift items, such as Judaic jewelry, toys, candlesticks, CDs, tallit, kipot, kiddush cups and much more. Any of our Sisterhood Judaica Shop volunteers will be happy to assist you. If you need a special appointment, contact Sharon Janis at 818-701-1789. Do you need a gift for the person who has everything? Give them a 2006 Entertainment Book! We have books available for all parts of the country, not just southern California. If you are planning a vacation in the next 12 months, order an Entertainment Book for that specific area and save! You can find Entertainment Books in the Judaica Shop or by calling Sharon. The Sisterhood also has a beautiful new assortment of art and Ketubot from artist Micki Caspi. We have a portfolio of samples, and there are more to choose from on-line. If you would like to make an appointment to see our Ketubot, call K.D. Zager at 818-832-6338. Many thanks to Robyn Blachman and her team for another tremendous Chanukah Boutique! We want to thank all of our vendors and shoppers for making it a huge success! What would any of our events be without our hard-working volunteers? We thank all those who worked so tirelessly. Save the date! May 6 will be our Sisterhood Car Rally. This promises to be a fun and exciting event. All are welcome to participate. For more details call Jo Schwartz at 818-701-1803, or Arlene at 818-366-1042. Invitations for your special occasion are always available by contacting Judy Gottlieb at 818-363-6924. Sisterhood thanks you for supporting our fund-raising efforts, and we hope you have a wonderful holiday season. K.D. Zager Sisterhood Vice President, Ways & Means TAS alumnioutreach Sisterhood Judaica Shop HOURS OF OPERATION Friday evenings during Oneg Sunday mornings, 9-11 (when school is in session) 1st & 2nd Sundays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. (when school is in session) Wednesdays & Thursdays, 10 a.m.-noon, 4-6 p.m. Special Appointments: Sharon Janis, 818-701-1789 General Information: Laraine Miller, 818-993-0796 Visit the TAS website at www.tasnorthridge.org Temple Ahavat Shalom • Page 6 spotlight on sisterhood Sisterhood: Where the Heart Is As we approach the holiday season and celebrate the miracle of Chanukah, may we not be so stuffed with latkes that we forget to count our blessings. We are thankful that Sisterhood is blessed with so many wonderful members. With all that we accomplish each year, TAS Sisterhood is truly a miracle. As we look ahead to many wonderful events, culminating with our Temple’s 40th birthday, we have a bright future. Both of us wish you all a joyous, happy and healthy holiday season. Robin Gilmour and Sky Maccarone, Sisterhood Co-Presidents Ode to Women’s Weekend A wonderful morning Are you here? What a wonderful morning 75 Sisterhood members had at the Paid-up Membership Brunch. Thanks to all who pitched in and helped make the morning such a big success. The food was delicious, our speaker, Fern Field Brooks, was very entertaining, and our 21 new members, including many ECEC moms, received Welcome to Sisterhood gifts. If you have not rejoined Sisterhood or are thinking of joining for the first time, it’s not too late. If you have any questions, please call membership co-chairs Robyn Blachman 818-832-7874, or Sue Sculler 818-7093861. Twenty-one women gathered to meet, This question the center of our first retreat. Are we present, are we here? The only time we feel no fear. Chanukah Swap and Meet On Thursday, Dec. 15, at 7 p.m., in the Social Hall, Sisterhood will hold its annual Chanukah party. This year not only will we be swapping gifts, but recipes as well. So get ready to swap gifts and recipes and meet new friends. Bring one $15 wrapped gift, a favorite appetizer or dessert, and 30 printed copies of the recipe. Recipes of any holiday season will suffice. No RSVP is necessary. If you have any questions, please call Robin Gore at 818-349-3005, or Mel Birken, 818-366-2397. We hope to see you there. Sycamore Springs in Avila Beach, Our enlightened teacher Rabbi Karen Deitch Our luggage was packed but baggage attached, To bodies, heart and soul, Cleansing ourselves and cleaning it out was Rabbi Deitch’s goal. Our blessed teacher there to lead, To help us choose the things we need, To understand the holy days, make room to plant and seed, We learned the weight we carry must be heeded to be freed. To move ahead, unpack our freight, to feel the burden dissipate, From Friday night to Sunday morn we all drove home with lighter weight. Our bodies as vessels cleansed in the springs Sharing our eternal source, Emerged our inner wellspring from such a mighty force! We learned we were many who dreamt of Tallit To wear our shawl for prayer. On Yom Kippur we gathered again enrobed with pride and care. One more step to holiness, our sisters’ fears unpeel, Experiencing our prayer from hearts that felt more real. We laughed, we prayed, we worked and cried. Blessed are we when hearts collide. Our thanks to our Rabbi and Sally Lax, For a weekend of wonder planned to the max! Vikki Flam Save the date of Feb. 11, 2006, for Women’s Spirituality Day, and March 26, 2006, Family Picnic Day at the Horse Races. Page 7 • Temple Ahavat Shalom Visit the TAS website at www.tasnorthridge.org focus on youth and education How spiritual can one get? To see 44 fourth and fifth graders sleeping on pews, the floor of the Sanctuary, all around with sleeping bags, together with friends, was truly amazing. What an incredible evening. We started in the Youth Lounge with pizza and mixers. Cantor Linsky took the kids on the bima and sat around with We m a d e c a rd s i n t h e S o c i a l singing and havdallah, and they Hall for kids of Katrina, key were truly enchanted. chains, friendship bracelets We made cards in the Social and beaded coasters. We Hall for kids of Katrina, key w a t c h e d m o v i e s t o g e t h e r, chains, friendship bracelets and h a d b re a k f a s t a n d t h e n o ff beaded coasters. We watched to religious school they movies together, had breakfast went in the morning. and then off to religious school they went in the morning. It worked out great that the teachers wanted the kids to bring in luggage for their “Trip to Israel,” so even though they were a little bit tired, all seemed to have a terrific time. If you are a fourth or fifth grader and missed this event, you missed some great memories. Of course, there is always next year. C lub 45 Watch for the next Club 45 event on Saturday night, Dec. 24. We are having a Chanukah party and it will be a fun time for all. We will be meeting in the Activity Center from 6:309:30 with food, games, activities and lots more. Bring $10 and a unisex $10 unwrapped gift to donate to children. Cheryl Hatkoff JUNIOR TASTY Save these dates Dec. 2 is Shabbat House – 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. in the Youth Lounge ($10) Dec. 4: Broomball (kids v. parents) 1-3:30 p.m. @ the Iceoplex in Panorama City (permission slips and payment information available at TAS) Jan. 6: Shabbat House – 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. in the Youth Lounge ($10) Jan. 22: Movie matinee and arcade fun – 1-3:30 p.m. SENIOR TASTY: Save these dates Dec. 9-11: NFTY Fall Kallah @ Camp Hess Kramer in Malibu (Contact Rabbi Deitsch for application materials). Dec. 25: Social Action Christmas: Join youth group members from Wilshire Boulevard Temple, Beth Hillel, Temple Israel of Hollywood, Temple Emannuel, Judea, and many more for a day of temple rededication (cleaning up graffiti on neglected holy buildings), followed by Chinese food in Beverly Hills (the place is opening just for you guys) and a private movie screening. Jan. 22: Event t.b.a And, as always, the fabulous TASTY Tuesdays in the Youth Lounge. Visit the TAS website at www.tasnorthridge.org Mitzvah projects In Support of the Children Affected by the Recent Hurricanes: Dear Friends and Family, I am writing to ask for your support and participation with my Bar-Mitzvah project. I am collecting new and "gently" loved stuffed animals for the children affected by Hurricane Katrina. I am working with the BellaPooch charity organization, which is collecting and delivering non-cash donations for Hurricane Katrina survivors. When I was younger, I had two stuffed animals that I really treasured. I slept with them every night and took them everywhere I went. Those two animals meant the world to me. I think that every child deserves a stuffed animal to be their friend, after all that they have been through. I am sure the youngest Katrina victims would be so happy to have a new, fuzzy friend with them wherever they go. Please help me attain my goal of having the children affected by Hurricane Katrina make a new friend for life. I will be placing a collection box outside of the Temple Ahavat Shalom school office, with the sign on it that says HURRICANE KATRINA STUFFED ANIMAL DONATIONS, or call me for pick-up. Feel free to contact me at 818831-3998, or e-mail me at [email protected] for more information. Thank you for your generosity and contributions. Stevie Gluck Project Linus I would like your help spreading the word about my mitzvah project. I am going to make blankets for Project Linus. Project Linus gives handmade blankets and quilts to kids who are in the hospital or suffering from trauma. When I was in the hospital after I was shot, I got a really nice quilt from Project Linus that I still use and love. I will provide the fabric. I need people to make the blankets. I passed out a flyer in my Hebrew school class but I need lots of "blanketeers," because we bought enough fabric to make about 50 blankets. Please contact me if you have any questions. Thanks for helping. Josh Stepakoff, 363-4306, [email protected] Temple Ahavat Shalom • Page 8 focus on youth and education Stand up and be counted It is that time of year again. From my perspective as a parent, I am not sure whether to look forward to it or to dread it. The holidays are fun, but there is always so much pressure to get everything done. So much rushing around. On the other hand, there is something really wonderful about this time of year. The anticipation, the good food, the cooler weather, family dinners and celebrations are all good things. The one constant is the fun and wonder that takes place in the ECEC. I love watching the excitement on the children’s faces as they make Chanukah decorations, make and eat latkes, or practice the songs they will sing at our Chanukah program. Even trying to spin a dreidel is amazing when you are 3 or 4 years old. We try, as Jewish educators to make sure ececNEWS the meaning of the holidays does not get lost in the celebration and gift giving. Chanukah is a minor Jewish holiday, but one with great lessons to teach us. Over the years, there has been much discussion and arguing among Jewish scholars. Should we teach the “miracle of the oil” story that many consider to be a fable? Some think the focus should be on the “other” miracle, that the Jewish army was able to overcome their lack of equipment and manpower and still win the fight for freedom. Personally, I think we can teach both. So what if it is a fable? It’s a beautiful story and fables haven’t been a problem for those who believe in Santa and the Easter Bunny! To me, the most important lesson to be learned from Chanukah is to stand up for what you believe in. This is usually difficult to do, but the world has been changed for the better many times by people who have been willing to take an unpopular stand. On behalf of the ECEC and the entire Chesler family, I want to wish you a warm and wonderful Chanukah and a great and safe New Year. B’shalom, Debi Chesler, ECEC Director Page 9 • Temple Ahavat Shalom A precious legacy Dating back to the 1600s, the Jewish community of Kolin, Czechoslovakia, survived periods, which were anti-Jewish, and times when Jews were allowed to flourish. By the early 1940s, there were about 4,000 Jewish men, women and children in the town, located about an hour from Prague. The years after 1938 were precarious for the Jews. They were ghettoized, unable to work or go to school, and subject to terrible cruelty. The synagogue, which dates back to the 1600s, was locked and abandoned. Because the Jews of Kolin were worried that something would happen to their precious Torahs, collected for centuries, they were sent to Prague, where a museum agreed to store them, along with Torahs from many synagogues throughout the country. In 1942, all Kolin’s Jews were told to report to the high school, where they were processed, placed on trains and deported to Terezin. At the war’s end, the Jews of Kolin numbered less than a minyan. Almost the entire population had been annihilated by the Nazis. Only a few people ventured back to Kolin. There was no Jewish life, and the synagogue never reopened. Fast forward several decades, when the Czech Torah Network was founded. Many of the Czech Torahs were brought to London, where they were repaired, stored and, in many cases, “loaned” to congregations throughout the world. Today there are 75 “loaned” Torahs in Southern California, and more than 1,500 around the world. Temple Ahavat Shalom was fortunate to become one of those synagogues. Several decades ago our members Esther and Harvey Saritzky traveled to London and selected a Torah for us. Rabbi Emeritus Solomon Kleinman asked the Saritzkys to choose a small Torah that our Bar/Bat Mitzvah students could carry. Hundreds of TAS children have done just that, but it wasn’t until recently that we learned the story of our Czech Holocaust Torah. Although we treasured it, it has become much more precious now that we know the story of Kolin. Many of us had the privilege of hearing Michael Heppner, a British resident, who is part of the Holocaust Torah program, tell his story about visiting Kolin. His moving story was accompanied by slides. The presentation was made to the Monday night religious school students. His first visit took place a number of years ago during the Communist regime in Czechoslovakia. His own synagogue in London had a “loaned” Torah from Kolin, and he was sent to find out what he could about the town and to see a memorial that supposedly had been placed in the cemetery. Michael’s journey was difficult because the Czech citizens were under the microscope of the Secret Police and they were afraid to speak to strangers. Ultimately, he located Olga, the only Jew who had stayed in Kolin. She survived the Holocaust and came back to her hometown, she said, because someone had to remember the 4,000 who were murdered. She took Michael to the cemetery, and there he found a beautiful memorial, listing the names and ages of every Jew who died in the Holocaust. We saw those names, graphically captured by his camera. Names of children from babies through teenagers who perished along with their parents and grandparents. Michael left the students with a special request. He said, “As you prepare for your Bar and Bat Mitzvah, I urge you to select a name from the list which I will provide to Rabbi Lutz, and partner with a child who did not live to enjoy a Bar Mitzvah.” As our children carry the Czech Torah, they will hold these children in their hearts and minds, as will we all. Fran Krimston Visit the TAS website at www.tasnorthridge.org Photo by Al Lapides TAS Choir Enhances High Holidays Thank you to: Alyssa Margolin, Fran Krimston, Rachel Goldman, Carol Stern, Sheila Morrison, Ellen Lowe, Carol Bizar-Morton, Marge Dallis, Addie Lupert, Elaine Gottesman, Jeff Shulman, Carole Joffee, Shira Thomas, Cantor Robbins, Millie Moore, Melissa Bridge (accompanist), Elaine Pfefferman, Alyce Caskey, Pam McDonald, Marc Thall, Arlene Stone, Karen Schnee, Vickie Briggs, Abdiel Gonzalez, Amy Arms, Sandy Erkus, Dylan Thomas, Tanya Levy, Joe Hoffman, Terry Wollman, Director, and Cantor Linsky. In their hearts and minds, Bob Warman and Ron Cohn. It is our job... Register to vote for 2006 WZO Congress of the Jewish People • to make sure there always is a Temple for Reform Jews in the north San Fernando Valley; Have a voice in decisions that affect you, your family, and your heritage – World Zionist Organization’s 35th Congress. Every four years delegates from over 40 countries meet to decide on issues you care deeply about now: the education and safety of Jews everywhere; the values, the well-being, and the future of the State of Israel. These delegates are selected by voters like you. They range from college students to seasoned vets, religious to secular, liberal to conservative. You don’t have to join or attend anything. If you’re American, Jewish, and agree with the Jerusalem Program, call the TAS office for a ballot. The American Zionist Movement expedites the U.S. voting. When your ballot arrives, simply choose a delegate slate that most closely represents your views. This is an important time for Jewish people. Please register, vote, and have your say. Call the TAS office for a ballot or register on-line by Feb. 15 at www.azm.org • to educate our children, our neighbors’ children, our children’s children, our children’s children’s children, Jews by choice, the children of Jews by choice, and everyone who wants to know the truth about Judaism and supports tolerance, social justice and peace; • to celebrate life-cycle events the same way our ancestors have wisely taught us to do so, and to assure that their ways continue long after we are gone; • to provide a gathering place for our youth, where they are safe to express themselves, where they are heard, where they are accepted; • to provide a gathering place for our elderly, where they are safe to express themselves, where they are heard, where they are accepted; • to promote peace, harmony, tolerance, equality, fairness, justice, civility and spirituality. It is our job. We do it well. No one can do it for us. Page 10 • Temple Ahavat Shalom Visit the TAS website at www.tasnorthridge.org Celebrating Simchat Torah Photos by Al Lapides PARENTING Continued from page 3 Finally, when he does get up during the night to test your new rules and boundaries, continue to praise him, get him his water, a potty break, and reassurance that you are all in the house, but that it's late and he has to sleep in his own bed. Continue to reinforce your love, but that Visit the TAS website at www.tasnorthridge.org he is expected to follow the rules of the house, just like everyone else does. If you have a game plan set in your head you will find it much easier to keep your temper in check and to follow through with your expectations of him. If you stick with the rules you should see a tremendous reduction in his acting out behavior within the first week. Remember mom, that you are training a child to become a contributing member of society when he is 18 and older, not one of those 16-year-olds (like your friends or neighbor's have) who refuse to go to bed, do their homework, crash the car they borrowed, and are just too busy, tired or lazy to get a summer job. It all starts with simple rules and boundaries that every 5-year-old needs to structure their daily life. Good luck! Bina Temple Ahavat Shalom • Page 11 social action update M M M This article is the first in a series of updates to keep you informed about the Million Mom March. Nationally, the Million Mom March has joined forces with the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence to provide the Brady Campaign with a corps of grassroots activists. Locally ,there are Million Mom March chapters in the San Fernando Valley, Santa Clarita and West Los Angeles. Did you know that an estimated 114,000 children in Los Angeles live in homes with unsafely stored guns? Were you aware that suicides among white elderly men are most often committed with a gun? Did you know that it is legal to purchase and own a military style .50 caliber sniper rifle that can shoot through a manhole cover from one mile away? How about that in six states it is legal for a child of any age to possess a gun? And did you know that in Florida it is now legal to shoot someone if you feel threatened? You are under no obligation to retreat from confrontation. And in Oklahoma, there is a new law prohibiting employers from banning guns at the workplace. Did you know that Congress is trying to pass federal legislation that will protect the firearm industry from civil lawsuits for negligence and defective products? And one more thing. The gun industry is exempt from oversight by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. There are no safety or design standards for U.S.-made firearms. Continued on page 13 million mom march Havurah It’s almost that time of the year where most of us are getting together to plan our Havurah event calendar. Have you thought of making Friday night Shabbat Services a Havurah event, attending the annual Sylvia Alster Memorial, or participating as a Havurah in the Purim Carnival? If not, why not? There are so many ways Havurot can participate within our TAS community. Think about making one event a TAS event. Contact committee chair Bice Recht for more information at [email protected] Page 12 • Temple Ahavat Shalom It’s a wonderful time It’s that wonderful time of the year again when we have the opportunity to make dreams come true for hundreds of children. Children who never dared dream of Chanukah or Christmas gifts can dream those dreams today because of you. For 15 years we at TAS have been working with the Alliance for the Care of Abused Children through the Department of Children and Family Services to provide holiday gifts for children who are victims of abuse, neglect and severe poverty. We also provide gifts to the Family Friends Program for children who are chronically or terminally ill for children with Special Needs, and for families at risk. This year we have added the Child and Family Guidance Center, where the emotional needs of victims of abuse and severe poverty are met. They also work with single mothers who are on Welfare to Work programs, providing them with the tools to go off welfare and provide for themselves and their children. Last year we collected over 900 gifts to be distributed to the many hundreds of children in need. This year we will provide for many more children. There is a poster in the hallway at the Temple with the names of children we are gifting. Take your children with you and let them help you choose names. Choose as many names as you wish, and if a name you want has already been selected, don’t worry – any child will be thrilled to receive more than one gift. Just follow the directions that are posted. Take your children or grandchildren with you when you shop. Teach them the joy of giving, of making another child’s dream come true. We are so fortunate to be able to help put a smile on a child’s face and hope in a child’s heart Fran and Lenn Rosenfield, Social Action Committee Super Bowl Lox Boxes are Back! …The best $35 you will spend all year. • It’s a party in a box! A complete breakfast delivered to your door on Superbowl Sunday. • Bagels, cream cheese, lox, danish, juice, coffee, tea, fruit, veggies, and more – all you have to do is listen for the doorbell. An angelic child from TAS will place in your hands everything you need to have a perfect day. Supporting the Temple Ahavat Shalom youth groups has never been so TASTY! Buy two…buy four…send them as gifts to your friends all over Los Angeles. Do it now! Visit the TAS website at www.tasnorthridge.org Photos by Al Lapides MILLION MOM MARCH Continued from page 12 Gun violence is a threat to all of us in our homes, schools, workplaces, and communities. The Million Mom March is a national grassroots organization dedicated to educating community leaders, school officials, health-care providers and the public about the risk of keeping unsafely stored guns in the home, and lobbying for sensible gun laws and political representatives who support those laws. Although the discussion about guns often becomes a political debate, the Million Mom March focus is on prevention. Guns kill about 30,000 people every year, and the direct and indirect economic cost is estimated to be $100 billion annually – it is indeed a public health epidemic. The Million Mom March strives to bring discussions about guns into the open. Parents freely discuss their child's allergies or swimming abilities when scheduling a visit to a friend's house, but often don't think to ask or do not feel comfortable asking if there is a loaded gun in the home. Health care providers should talk freely with their patients about the risk of unsafely stored guns in the home to impetuous teens, inquisitive toddlers, or depressed elderly. The Million Mom March is available to help prepare you to have these discussions. We offer continuing education seminars for doctors, nurses and social workers. We also are available to speak to school groups, educators and community groups. For more information about the mission of the Million Mom March, visit MillionMomMarch.org. To get involved with a local chapter go to [email protected] or call 818-503-3299. Loren Lieb • [email protected] • 363-4306 Visit the TAS website at www.tasnorthridge.org Pennies from heaven Wasn’t there a song about that a long time ago? I don’t quite remember the basis for the lyrics, but I suspect that what I’m going to talk about is a little different than what the song intended. When you think of heaven, what do you think about? Well, what I think about is what someone can do before going to “heaven” to benefit themselves, their family and the Temple all at the same time. What is he talking about, you may be asking yourself? If you have read these columns before you know what I’m getting at. Pre-need (boy, do I dislike that term) is so very important if you care about the family you leave behind. Pre-need is the taking care of business for the final resting place for you or your spouse long before it is ever needed. It eases the burden on the rest of the family and it saves a ton of money. It also allows you to make all the arrangements the way you would like them and eases the responsibility and the pain encountered when the family is forced to make all the arrangements at the last minute. Not only will you save a lot of money by purchasing plots ahead of time, but the Temple can benefit (this is the pennies from heaven part) because it receives a portion of the purchase price. How much is determined by the cemetery. What is even better is that if you tell others who want to purchase ahead of time, even if they are not members, the Temple can benefit if they say they are affiliated with the Temple. Two members of our congregation can help you with these arrangements. Doreen Kayne of Mount Sinai, 800-600-0076, and Fran Krimston of Hillside, 800-576-1994. They would be more than happy to work with you. If you need more information, contact me, Brian Hatkoff, at 818701-7789. Temple Ahavat Shalom • Page 13 GENEROUS GIFTS you make the difference ALUMNI FUND AlumniOUTREACH Outreach Fund Susan and Michael Pollack and family, to Rosanne and Steve Gore and family, in memory of your Aunt Shirley. Vicki L. Pershes. Michael and Susan Bierman. BEAUTIFICATION FUND Beautification Fund Judy and Dick Seligman, “In memory of Mathew T. Kleinman, brother of Rabbi Solomon Kleinman.” Ruth and Max Lupul, in memory of Richard Seligman’s cousin, May Dinsfriend. Lois Alford, “Thank you to the ladies of my wonderful ‘Bat Mitzvah Posse’: Terri Jonisch, Lisa Nelson, Marcy Hilecher and Faith Moser, for helping to create the most beautiful day and evening for Emily.” CANTOR’S FUND Cantor’s DISCRETIONARY Discretionary Fund Lila and Sheldon Snow, “Thank you, Cantor Linsky, for making our special anniversary even more special.” George and Terry Nadel, in honor of Cantor Linsky officiating the Bat Mitzvah of Raquel Nadel. Elissa and Howard Bender, in honor of Fletcher Bender’s Bar Mitzvah, and to thank Cantor Linsky for her support and encouragement. The Kulberg/Rubenstein family, thanking Cantor Linsky, for making Shari Kulberg’s Bat Mitzvah a wonderful and special day. Jerry and Cathleen Meyers, in honor of the High Holy Days Services. The Rahm family, in honor of Cantor Linsky. “Thank you for making Anna’s Bat Mitzvah service such a joyous occasion by singing straight from your heart, and thanks also for the chocolate in our time of need!” Lois, Kim, and Emily Alford, “Thank you, Cantor Linsky for your love and support during Emily’s Bat Mitzvah training and at her service. And as you sang – our hearts sang.” Cecille Kornswiet and family, in honor of the inspiring LONG-TERM FINANCIAL PLANNING AND TEMPLE AHAVAT SHALOM Page 14 • Temple Ahavat Shalom High Holy Days music and services by all. DIRECTOR EDUCATION DISCRE Fund Director ofOF Education Discretionary Lila and Sheldon Snow, “Thank you, Rabbi Lutz, for your blessing on our special anniversary.” George and Terry Nadel, in honor of Rabbi Lutz officiating the Bat Mitzvah of Raquel Nadel. TAS Sisterhood, in honor of the Washington, D.C. trip. Sima Mizrahi and Molly Goldberg, in honor of the marriage of Mary Mizrahi and Tim Dempsey. Mark and Molly Goldberg, in honor of the marriage of Mary Mizrahi and Tim Dempsey. David, Reesa, Brandon, and Stephanie Shaw, in memory of Alice Miller. Ken Gross. Lois and Kim Alford. “Rabbi Lutz, our love and thanks for your support and calm insight at Emily’s Bat Mitzvah.” Robyn and Joseph Blachman. Robert Blachman, in honor of your Yom Kippur Torah reading. – Mom & Dad. EARLY FUND Early CHILDHOOD Childhood Fund Karen and Gordon Silverstein, in memory of Harold Schiff, a gentle, loving man, father, and grandfather. Lila and Sheldon Snow, in memory of Bob Turer. Ruby Diamond, condolences to Heather Shack and her family for the loss of her father. Also, wishing Heather a speedy recovery. MITZVAH FUND MitzvahNETWORK Network Fund EDUCATION FUND Education OPPORTUNITY Opportunity Fund Judy and Dick Seligman, “In honor of the birth of Andy and Barry Mann’s granddaughter, Becca Rosenblatt.” Nelly Dyment and Boris Klivansky, in memory of Shabatai Modzgvrishvili. GENERAL General FUND Fund Karen and Gordon Silverstein, in memory of Al Ponaman. Are you interested in learning how to: ◆ Provide for your family’s needs. ◆ Make gifts to charities and others. ◆ Lower your taxes. ◆ Review your property arrangements (and its passage to future heirs). REMEMBER TAS IN YOUR WILL. Contact the Temple Office for details. Karen and Gordon Silverstein, in memory of Ron Cohn. Jerry and Cathy Meyers, in honor of Brian Hatkoff. Veronica Cohn, in loving memory of Nathan Cohn. Veronica Cohn, in loving memory of Augusta Cohn Sobol. Veronica Cohn, in loving memory of Andrew Wiener. Veronica Cohn, in loving memory of Cornelia Stoltz. Veronica Cohn, in loving memory of Sam Stoltz. Linda Liddell. TAS Seniors. The Kantrowitz family, in honor of Fred Pell’s birthday. Laraine and Howard Miller, in honor of participating in the High Holy Days services. North Valley Senior Friendship Club. Dr. Dafna Trites, Premier Women’s Health Care, Inc. Abbie and Jeffrey Rapport, in honor of the New Year. David, Lisa, Alec and Paige Nelson, in memory of Irwin Weinberg. Marti Tomkin. Scott and Joyce Hayman, in memory of Al Ponaman. Deborah S. Weissman. Eleanor and Peter Polonsky, in memory of Lidia and Semyon Dubinsky. Karen and Gordon Silverstein, in memory of Carl Gross, a gentle man and loving father, father-in-law, and grandfather. Harriet and Eric Leibovitch, in honor of Robin Gore’s installation as Sisterhood Program Vice President. Harriet and Eric Leibovitch, in honor of Linda Leibovitch’s installation to the Board. Lois, Kim and Emily Alford, in honor of Terri Jonisch and Joel Lowell and their friendship during our time of sadness and always. Allen and Dana Berg, in memory of Denise Clumeck. PRAYERBOOK FUND Prayerbook Fund Estie Danny, in memory of Emma Lopez. RABBIS’ DISCRETIONARY FUND Rabbis’ Discretionary Fund Judy and Dick Seligman, “In memory of Babette Himler, beloved wife of TAS past president, Gary Himler.” Daniel Liberman. Bernie and Tammy Singer, with much appreciation for Rabbi Brown’s caring support during Bernie’s recuperation. Ellen and Stuart Fair, in honor of Rabbi Karen Deitsch and the High Holy Days. Visit the TAS website at www.tasnorthridge.org GENEROUS GIFTS you make the difference Religious & Hebrew School Fund . Lois and Kim Alford, in honor of our amazing daughter, Emily, on her Bat Mitzvah. Elissa and Howard Bender, in honor of Fletcher Bender’s Bar Mitzvah, and to thank Rabbi Lutz for his guidance and assurance. RONNA LEWEdgers EDGERS MEMORIAL RonnaAND & Lew Memorial Israel ISRAEL PROGRAMS Fund Lila and Sheldon Snow, in honor of Anita Hoch and the High Holy Days Committee. The Rubenstein/Kulberg family, to thank Rabbi Deitsch for making Shari Kulberg’s Bat Mitzvah a wonderful and special day. SARITZKY FAMILYAdult ADULT EDUCATION Saritzky Family Education Karen and Gordon Silverstein, to Esther Saritzky, “Esther, we wish you a speedy and complete recovery.” Lois, Kim and Emily Alford, in loving memory of Faigie and Bernie Rogow, and to honor their long friendship with Esther and Harvey. SOCIAL FUND Social ACTION Action Fund Judy and Dick Seligman, “In loving memory of May Dinsfriend.” Susan and Michael Pollack and family, to Mr. and Mrs. Michael Novins and family, in memory of your beloved mother and grandmother. Karen and Gordon Silverstein, to Fran Rosenfield, “Fran, we are so happy you are on your way to a complete recovery.” YOUTH FUND Youth PROGRAMS Programs Fund Margie and Larry Schechter, in memory of Alfred Stark, grandfather of Bruce and Brian Hatkoff. The Rahm family, in honor of Rabbi Deitsch. “Thank you for making Anna’s Bat Mitzvah service a truly insightful and meaningful experience.” Todd Ponaman, in honor of the Al Ponaman Youth Lounge. Natalie Berkowitz, in honor of the Bar Mitzvah of Bob Ingrum. YAHRZEITS Yahrzeits The Kassan family, in memory of Nancy and David Blender. David, Becky and Daniel Breuer, in memory of Rose Breuer. Helene and Arnold Frank, in memory of Gladys Bleustein. Abbey Schwartzer, in memory of Rebecca Diamond. Judy and Lenn Soloff, in memory of Elinor Faye. Carol and Sandy Stern, in loving memory of Rebecca Finkelstein. Max and Ruth Lupul, in memory of Erika Fokschaner. Arnold and Helene Frank, in memory of Jeanette Frank. Rosanne, Steve, Scott and Brian Gore, in memory of our great-uncle, Art Herzman. Rosanne, Steve, Scott and Brian Gore, in memory of our father and grandfather, Kenneth Gore. Laura Weisshar, Pamela, Michael, and Lisa, in memory of Manuel M. Green. Ed and Fran Handler, in memory of Stanley Handler. Marian Hozman, in memory of Samuel L. Hozman. Shirlee G. Kline, in memory of Henry R. Kline. Harriet and Eric Leibovitch, in memory of Esther Leibovitch. Jack Lester, in memory of Harry J. Lester. Scott Lewison, in memory of Lori Lewison. Ronnie Lichter, in memory of Scott L. Lichter. Hildie Gold, in memory of William Mallet. Julian, Ronda, Michael and Carly Mayer, in memory of Helen Mayer. Michael Saltsman, in memory of Bessie Mikkelson. Angie Roman and family, in memory of Eva Roman. Gina Ryskind, in memory of Art Ryskind. CONDOLENCES Published monthly by Temple Ahavat Shalom 18200 Rinaldi Place, Northridge, CA 91326 Editor: FRAN KRIMSTON Proofreader: MONTE KRIMSTON Jeffrey and Linda Abell, in memory of Earle I. Abell. Emily and Gerald Taitz, in memory of Joseph Agar. Jay Segal, in memory of Jake Babich. Frederic and Phyllis Cohen, in memory of Phacia Bell. Carol Bizar-Morton, Thomas and Tori Morton, in memory of Betty Bizar. Visit the TAS website at www.tasnorthridge.org Debbie and Ron Schwartz, in memory of Eleanor Santman. Elinor and Paul Christian, in memory of Arlene Sarison. David and Laurie Scher, in memory of Samuel Scher. Alyce Schultz Rozsa, in memory of Marvin Schultz. Valarie and Mark Mendelsohn, in memory of Ruth Rita Shankin. Cary A. Shore, in memory of Dorothy Shore. Stephen and Judith Wolff, in memory of Abraham Silver. Karen and Gordon Silverstein, in memory of Elwin H. Silverstein. Terry and Bruce Hatkoff, in memory of Samuel Sisskin. Gloria Katcher, in memory of Samuel Smola. Judy and Lenn Soloff, in memory of Anne Soloff. The Wegs, in memory of Lillian and Herman Warshaw. The Weissbrod family, in memory of Aron and Priva Weissbrod. The Fox family, in memory of Harry Wolfe. Stephen and Judith Wolff, in memory of Leonard Wolff. Anita and Steven Hoch, in memory of Gussie Yoss. Anita and Steven Hoch, in memory of Harry Yoss. Anita and Steven Hoch, in memory of Kenny Yoss. Anita and Steven Hoch, in memory of Rose Yoss. Photographers: Sandy Tilsen, Al Lapides Deadlines are the 5th of the preceding month. Please leave a copy of your article in the MENORAH box in the temple office, The rabbis, cantor and congregation wish to express their heartfelt condolences to: Paul Bernstein and family on the death of his aunt, Ruth Horowitz. Rosanne Gore and family on the death of her aunt, Shirley Lein. James Karp and family on the death of his father, Lucian Karp. Rudy Grossberg and family on the death of his father, Henry Grossberg. fax it to (818) 832-0076 Temple Ahavat Shalom • Page 15 DECEMBER 2005 Monday Sunday Tuesday Upcoming Events: Sunday, January 1 – Happy New Year! Last night of Chanukah; Tuesday, January 2 – 9:30 a.m. Bible Study, 4 p.m. Jr. Choir Rehearsal; Wednesday, January 4 – 10:30 a.m. Seniors Meeting; Friday, January 6 – 7:30 p.m. Jr. TASTY Shabbat House, 8 p.m. Erev Shabbat Service; Saturday, January 7 – 9:30 a.m. Tot Shabbat, 10:30 a.m. Bat Mitzvah of Rachel Namson, 5 p.m. Bar Mitzvah of Jason Burleigh; Sunday, January 8 – Religious School Resumes 4 9 a.m. Adult Ed: 40 is New 30 9 a.m. Adult Ed: Hebrew I: You Can Read Hebrew 10 a.m. Town Hall Meeting 11 a.m. Conversational Hebrew 11 a.m. Adult Hebrew II 6 p.m. Men’s Club/Jr. TASTY Family Sports Night 11 8:30 a.m. Men’s Club 9 a.m. Adult Ed: 40 is New 30 9 a.m. Adult Ed: Hebrew I: You Can Read Hebrew 10:15 a.m. Adult Ed: Judaism 101 11 a.m. Conversational Hebrew 11 a.m. Adult Hebrew II 18 Winter Break – No School Friday Thursday Wednesday 1 Saturday 2 3 7:30 p.m. Jr. TASTY Shabbat House 8 p.m. Men’s Club Shabbat Service – Man of the Year Announcement 9:30 a.m. Tot Shabbat 10:30 a.m. Bar Mitzvah of Daniel Kooden 5 p.m. Bat Mitzvah of Shaina Roberts 5 6 7 8 9 10 7 p.m. URJ: Intro to Judaism 7 p.m.: Adult Ed: Jewish Experience: Fire & Water 9:30 a.m. Bible Study Group 4 p.m. Jr. Choir Rehearsal 10:30 a.m. Seniors Meeting 7 p.m. Book Club 8 p.m. Erev Shabbat Service 10:30 a.m. Bar Mitzvah of Jacob Mermell 5 p.m. Bar Mitzvah of Cody Rapport 12 13 14 15 16 17 7 p.m. URJ: Intro to Judaism 7 p.m.: Adult Ed: Jewish Experience: Fire & Water 9:30 a.m. Bible Study Group 4 p.m. Jr. Choir Rehearsal 7:30 p.m. Singles Meeting 10:30 a.m. Seniors Meeting 6 p.m. Sisterhood General Meeting/Chanukah 7:30 p.m. Erev Shabbat Family Service 10:30 a.m. Bar Mitzvah of Joshua Stepakoff 10:30 a.m. Shabbat Minyan 5 p.m. Bar Mitzvah of Zakery Johns 19 20 21 22 23 24 Winter Break – No School Winter Break – No School 9:30 a.m. Bible Study Group 4 p.m. Jr. Choir Rehearsal 7:30 TAS Board Mtg. Winter Break – No School 10:30 a.m. Seniors Meeting Winter Break – No School Winter Break – No School 8 p.m. Erev Shabbat Service 6 p.m. Club 45 Chanukah Party 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Temple Closed – 1st Chanukah Candle Winter Break – No School Winter Break – No School 9:30 a.m. Bible Study Group 4 p.m. Jr. Choir Rehearsal Winter Break – No School 10:30 a.m. Seniors Meeting Winter Break – No School Winter Break – No School 8 p.m. Erev Shabbat Service NEW YEAR’S EVE 2006 T E M P L E A H A V AT S H A L O M 18200 Rinaldi Place Northridge, CA 91326 (818) 360.2258 (818) 360.5947 (fax) RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED Dated Material PLEASE EXPEDITE NON-PROFIT Organization U.S. POSTAGE PAID Van Nuys, CA Permit No. 599