Temple Emanu-El, San Jose, CA
Member of the Union for Reform Judaism
Connections
June/July 2009 Sivan/Tammuz 5769
V. 73, No. 118
June/July
Shabbat Service Schedule
Friday Shabbat Services
All summer services start at
6:30pm on the Patio
(weather permitting)
Neighborhood
Havdallah
June 5, 12, 19, 26
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Saturday, June
7:30pm
Tot Shabbat
June 19
July 17
Saturday Morning
Minyanim
All Minyan services start at
9:00am in the BFR
June 6, 20, 27
July 4, 11, 18, 25
Celebrate Shavuot
Last year, more than a
hundred Temple members
joined together in homes
throughout the Valley to make
6 (giving of the Torah to Moses and the Jewish
new
friends and share food,
People)
wine, songs and prayers.
Erev Shavuot and Confirmation Service
May
28 at 7pm
It was aThursday,
wonderful
evening
that everyone who participated
Tikkun Lail Shavuot
(all-night
study session)
enjoyed
very much.
Thursday May 28 at 10:00pm
Shavuot
Morning
Service
We
look forward
to another
Friday, May 29 at 9:00am
great night.
To RSVP, contact
membership@
templesanjose.org
When you RSVP, you will
be assigned a home and
sent all relevant
information.
Mazel Tov to the Confirmation
of 5769
Meet your fellowClass
congregants
Please bring an appetizer
or dessert to share.
Survival in Shanghai:
The Journals of Fred Marcus 1939-49
by Audrey Friedman Marcus and Rena Krasno
June 13, 10:00am - 12:00pm
South Bay Pride
Shabbat at Temple
Emanu-El
Temple Emanu-El is pleased
to host the annual Pride
Shabbat service for the South
Bay. LGBTQ families, friends
and allies are invited to an
inspirational service, led by
Cantor Meeka Simerly and
Rabbi Lisa Levenberg from
Congregation Shir Hadash.
Special readings for this
occasion will educate, inspire
and remember. There will be
no 9:00am minyan at Temple
this week: come join us for
Pride Shabbat. The service
will be followed by a dairy
potluck lunch.
Natalie
batinOscar
whoAudelo,
live right
your and Meryl
Zacharyneighborhood!
Heerwagen, ben Jim and Hilary
Marcus Hoffman, ben Jeff and Pam
Michael Holt, ben Glenn and Jill
Alyssa Jepsky, bat Eric and Martha
Carter Johnson, ben Stuart and Sarah
Kevin Krandel, ben Steve and Shari
Spencer Marsh, ben Jeff and Missy
Laura Mighdoll, bat David and Linda
Sadie Misle, bat Howard and Tamara
Amanda Schmitt , bat Ralph and Sara
Zachary Sprintz, ben Mike and Millie
Matthew Weingarten,
ben Gordon and Barbara
Wednesday, June 10 at 7:00pm
A talk will be given about the Jewish Holocaust immigrants
in Shanghai by the authors. Hosted by Mort and Barbara
Berlant and co-sponsored by Sisterhood and Brotherhood.
RSVP by June 8 to [email protected].
Open to the community at no charge.
“History is written from both the ‘macro’ and ‘micro’ perspective. We must know the ‘big’ picture, but it
is the small details which give that picture depth and texture. Fred Marcus’s diary, together with the
commentary and elaboration provided by his wife Audrey and Rena Krasno, open a window into the life
of a Jewish refugee in Shanghai during the dreadful years of the Shoah.” —Michael Medavoy, CEO
Phoenix Pictures
In 1939, Fred Marcus, a German-Jewish teenager, fled Nazi Germany for the relative safety
of Shanghai. Along with 20,000 other stateless Jewish refugees, he endured hunger, disease,
the Japanese occupation and American bombardment. And he kept a journal, recording the
day-to-day details of life, of finding ways to support himself, getting enough to eat, joining a
volunteer fire brigade, going to religious services, and sharing good times with friends. His
journal, the coming-of-age story of a young man trying to make a life in a difficult place
during wartime, is enhanced by informative commentary by authors Audrey Friedman
Marcus and Rena Krasno.
Temple Emanu-El
1010 University Avenue, San Jose, CA 95126
www.templesanjose.org
Administrative Office: 408.292.0939 Religious School Office: 408.292.3223 Preschool Office: 408.293.8660
From Rabbi’s Desk
In seems somewhat
impossible that this month
marks the conclusion of my
tenth year as your Rabbi.
Where did the time go? So
much has happened in these
ten years. I am so proud of
our congregation and of our
staff. I fell in love with
Temple Emanu-El the
minute Bob Hersch walked
me into our Sanctuary on
the day of my interview. I
felt at home immediately
and I felt a connection to
the people I met. Today
those same people are now
family. My son, Raya, who
was not even a year old when we arrived, has grown up in this
congregation. My daughter, Shira, was nine years old when we
arrived and she, like Raya, feels like our synagogue is her spiritual
home. Cheriel and I have been proud participants in our synagogue
and we too feel at home. I thank you from the very depths of my
being for granting me the honor of being your rabbi. I feel blessed
and honored and I especially am so excited about our future
together. As we approach the congregation’s 150th anniversary, there
is so much ahead of us.
This year has been one of great significance. I could not possibly list
all the events that have taken place in this article, but I feel absolutely
blessed having had the privilege and honor of working with the best
funeral director in the world, Wayne Rose. Although he has retired
from the role of Cemetery Administrator, he is still working with
Sinai Memorial Chapel and I cannot think of a better person for any
of us to contact when the need arises. I thank Wayne for his
incredible commitment, expertise and thoughtfulness in his work for
our synagogue and for our Jewish community. We should all be
proud of Wayne’s achievements and menshelikite. I welcome Bob
Basuino as our new Cemetery Administrator; he has some huge
shoes to fill and I know he will do a great job.
So too, this year we welcome a new staff person to our team. I am
so proud of the growth and partnership that our new cantor, Meeka
Simerly, has experienced. Although she has been with us as our
intern Cantor for some time, this summer she becomes the full time
cantor of Temple Emanu-El. I look forward to working with Cantor
Meeka. I feel so blessed to have such a gifted, sensitive,
compassionate and caring clergy partner. We have been practicing
our partnership for a couple of years now, so I know her transition
to her new role will be smooth and thoughtful.
As you read this article, I will have begun the last segment of my
sabbatical. Although I will be at temple a couple of times in June and
leading our congregational trip to Israel in July, with a few weddings
in August, I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to recharge my
battery. I am confident that Cantor Meeka will assume her role as
she has the last two summers with great skill and understanding.
May this summer be one of health, happiness and rejuvenation for
all of us.
L’Shalom
Rabbi Dana L. Magat
[email protected]
President’s Message
2
As I write this article, it occurs to me that I have only two more
weeks as president of Temple Emanu-El’s Board of Trustees.
The first thing I should mention is that our Executive Director,
James Perlstein, has left us. He is returning to Chicago where his
family resides. A new search committee has been formed and is
actively pursuing candidates. In the interim, Nancy Weintraub has
been hired to serve as Executive Director.
By the time you read this Cantor Intern Meeka Simerly will be
CANTOR Meeka Simerly. Cantor Meeka will have been invested on
May 25. We have a contract with Cantor Meeka ensuring she will be
with us for the next three years. I know we all wish her the very best.
While this has been a very challenging year, it has also been very
rewarding. To have the chance again to be an active part of the
Temple’s board has been an experience to be relished.
Our Temple has come through the year in good financial and
spiritual shape. Our dues collection has come in virtually on target
and overall, we will finish the year with a small surplus. Next year,
however, remains a mystery. Our commitment letters are just going
out and we are unsure just how the economy has affected
congregants. The sooner you can return your commitment, the better
we will be able to plan for next year.
Perhaps the most exciting event of the year has been the donation of
the house next to the temple on Myrtle Street by Ruth Krandel.
Ruth’s gift has provided the temple with a venue for additional
programming and a meeting place for all generations. We cannot
thank Ruth enough. Please thank her the next time you see her.
I am sure the new president and board will serve with distinction.
Steve Greenberg, President
[email protected]
“It would be my
pleasure to be
your Realtor!”
Mary Cohen
Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES)
Quality Service Certified (QSC)
408.981.2955 cell
In appreciation of your business and
referrals, a donation will be made to
Temple Emanu-El at close of escrow.
Temple
Happenings
Will You Join Us?
3
Shofar Class
On page 13 of this issue of Connections you will find a letter from Bob
Hersch announcing the financial membership commitment program
for 2009-2010. Despite the fact that many costs such as insurance,
utilities, and health care are beyond our control and continue to
increase, the Board of Trustees has decided to keep next year’s
membership commitment levels the same. Why? Because the Board
recognizes that economic conditions are placing a strain on many
families, and we are concerned.
Still, we need to invest in Temple Emanu-El’s future. No one knows
what next year will bring, but hopefully the economy will turn
around later in 2009 or early 2010, enabling all congregants to make
a full financial commitment to our congregation. In the meantime,
we are voluntarily increasing our financial commitments by 5%, or
more, for one year to help ensure the continued vibrancy of our
congregation. We hope that those of you who are able to do so will
join us.
We have all marveled at Mark Cahn’s shofar blowing abilities at High
Holy Day services and wondered “How does he do that so well?”
He’s sharing his secrets along with all the ‘secret’ ancient history of
the shofarot (plural for shofar) at the new four-part Shofar class.
Sundays from 10:30am – 11:30am in the Temple House
June 7 - Introduction to minhag (custom), history, etc.
July 12 - Technique
August 9 - Practice
A light breakfast will be served.
Thursday, September 17 from 7:00pm – 8:00pm in the Sanctuary
Last class - Rehearsal
RSVP by June 5 to
[email protected]
Ages: Post B’nai Mitzvah-100
(15 participants max)
Bring own shofar
and ear plugs!
Doris and Rick Davis
Shari and Steve Krandel
Lynn Offenhartz and Andrew Weinberg
Swing into Summer with
eScrip
eScrip doesn't take a vacation.
Everyone still eats and shops,
hopefully at our generous eScrip
merchants. Don't forget to visit
the eScrip Online Mall where
there is an amazing array of
businesses who await your order.
Thank you for using your
credit/debit, Safeway and Macy's registered cards when shopping.
If you have not already become a supporter of Temple's eScrip
program, surf on over to www.escrip.com. Temple's ID# is
136985180. Better yet, phone me and I'll do the registering for you.
eScrip and merchant partners have created a simple system that
rewards customer loyalty by contributing a percentage of your
purchases to Temple.
There are many reasons to sign up for eScrip:
*It's easier than selling candy, raffle tickets or gift wrap.
*If you don't sign up, guilt will cause too many sleepless nights.
*Temple needs money! Every dollar counts!
Lorie Kaplan
eScrip Coordinator
408.267.4563
Tekiah!
Women of Reform Judaism
Temple Emanu-El Sisterhood to host
WRJ All Sisterhood Day
Women of Reform Judaism Pacific District’s
annual All Sisterhood Day is on Sunday, June
28 from 9:00am - 3:00pm at Temple EmanuEl. Guest speaker for the event will be Susan
Bass, WRJ Vice President of Service to
Sisterhoods and Districts.
All Sisterhood members and prospective members from throughout
Northern California are invited to attend this dynamic annual
summer event. Twelve workshops will be offered on a variety of
topics including Programming for Fun, Membership, Social Action,
Marketing, Jewish Women in History, Torah Study, Budgets, Future
Planning, Leadership Training, and more. The workshops, led by
WRJ board members, will offer topics of value to all levels of
sisterhood experience. Sandy Gatlin, Pacific District President will
lead the President’s Workshop.
Registration for All Sisterhood Day is $30 per person and includes
breakfast, lunch and all workshops. To register, contact Myra Feiger
[email protected].
For information, contact Diana MaKieve [email protected] or
925.988.9707 or Rita Loren, Temple Emanu-El Sisterhood
President, 408.379.8681.
If you would like to help out on this day for no more than 4 hours
and attend for free, please email Anita Medeiros at
[email protected]. Please specify whether you would prefer the
morning or afternoon shift.
All Sisterhood Day


12:40pm – 1:00pm Call to Convention







10:45am – 11:55am - Workshops



Presidents’ Workshop
How WRJ PD can serve sisterhoods
Sandy Gatlin, District President
Keeping our Tents Strong – Growing Membership
Bringing women into the tent
Edith Caplan, District Past President
Social Action Rings
An 8 step program to bring advocacy to action.
Diana MaKieve, District VP
Andy Press Dawson, Women of B’nai Israel, Sacramento
WRJ Basics: Susan Bass
WRJ PD: Ellen Pollack
Why should I be a leader?: Sandy Gatlin
Inclusion of the Non-Jewish Spouse/Partner:
Diane MaKieve
Building Relationships: Jane Marcus
2:00pm – 3:10pm Workshops




9:00am – 9:30pm - Registration & light breakfast
9:30am-10:40am - Welcome, Introductions and YES Fund
Presentation and Solicitation
Rhonda Daniels and Deborah Sibner, 2010 Pacific
District Biennial Co-Chairs
Elaine Berghausen-Convention Bags-We need sewing sisters!
1:00pm – 2:00pm Ten Minute Topics
June 28 from 9:00am-3:30pm at Temple Emanu-El
The theme of the day is ‘Mah Tovu - How Lovely Are Your Tents’.
This taste of WRJ and Pacific District offers information to enhance
skills, knowledge and resources, gives us a chance to spend positive
time with the women of our area as well as have fun sharing ideas,
insights and connections.
You Are What You Spend- Does your budget reflect
your values?
What’s important to your Sisterhood? Is that where your
money goes?
Elaine Berghausen, District Area Director
Marketing and Communicating
Getting the word out effectively
Susan Bass, WRJ VP of Service to Sisterhoods
Noon – 12:30pm Lunch
 Motzi – Sandy Gatlin, District President
 American Idol Vote: Mah Tovu
All Sisterhood Day – Pacific District of WRJ
Temple Emanu-El Sisterhood has been given the honor of hosting a
wonderful event known as All Sisterhood Day. The day is sponsored
by the Women of Reform Judaism-Pacific District, Northern
California
4

Leading your sisterhood into the future
Strategy for using your history, mission and image to
create a plan.
Linda Henderson, District 1st Vice President
Jewish Women in History
You’ve heard about Emma Goldman, Emma Lazarus,
and Golda Meir. Who is Nancy Liberman? Or Judith
Resnick? Or Thelma Eisen?
Rabbi Kim Ettlinger, Associate Rabbi Peninsula Temple
Sholom
Torah Study using WRJ’s The Torah: A Women’s
Commentary and new study guides.
When and how to use these valuable new resources.
Cantor Meeka Simerly, Temple Emanu-El, San Jose
Programming for Fun
Looking at the Kavod award winners. What made them
special?
Fun events in the District for your Sisterhood.
Shari Carruthers, District Area Director
President?, Co-Presidents?, and Leadership Council?
Discussion examining three governance structures.
Ricki Oleon, District Past President will moderate:
Joanne Kukulus from Beth Am
Women, Los Altos Hills, Lynn
Epstein from Women of Isaiah,
Lafayette, and Sally Bill, from
Temple Beth Israel Sisterhood,
Fresno
3:15pm Closing Circle –
Judith Stubbs, Temple Emanu-El
Sisterhood Cont.
Sisterhood Donor Luncheon
July 23 at Mariani’s Restaurant with singer/musician Daphna Rahmil
Watch your mail and email for more information!
Please call Bernice Gaon 408.269.0131 or Rita Loren 408.379.8681
with any questions or to RSVP.
Thank you to the following girls for helping at the Women’s Seder:
Elyssa and Kelsey Hurwitz, Isabel Haggerty, Erica Go,
Kristina Kheyfets and Lizzie Braunreuther
We couldn’t have done it without you!
FOR YOUR SPECIAL SIMCHA
Sisterhood’s Catering Menu for Oneg Shabbat
Assorted cookie trays (24 – 36 pieces)
Brownies (24 - 36 pcs)
Cake trays (24-36 pieces)
Cupcake cake (24 cupcakes decorated
like a cake – Mazel Tov)
Fancy cookie trays (24 – 36 pieces)
Mandelbrot/rugeluch/etc
Dried fruit and nut tray
Fresh Vegetable trays
Cheese and cracker trays
Hummus and Pita trays
Fresh Fruit trays
Tortilla Chips and Salsa
Layered Bean Dip with Tortilla Chips
M&M or Jelly Belly bowls (3 bowls)
$30
$30
$30
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$36
$30
$36
$10
We do a professional job, and our staff donates their time,
earning donor credit. Therefore, all profits from your event
help fund the many projects of the Sisterhood that support
our Temple community. References available on request.
Please contact Anita for information: [email protected].
LAW OFFICE OF DERRYL H. MOLINA
Estate planning – Elder Law – General Practice
SE HABLA ESPANOL
1142 S. Winchester Blvd., Suite B
San Jose, CA 95128
408.244.4992
Derryl H. Molina
Attorney at Law
[email protected]
Brotherhood
5
I wonder if other Brotherhood presidents are as lucky as I am.
Promoting Brotherhood and Temple events is not like pulling teeth
or herding cats. The opposite is true. It is a challenge keeping up
with my brothers. I am blessed to be working with an extremely
talented, enthusiastic and fun bunch of guys.
I am exceptionally proud of Brotherhood. As the year comes to a
close and I finish my first term as Brotherhood president, I would
like to tell you why. Brotherhood is always looking for ways to
support the Temple. Over the past few months Brotherhood has
provided the Temple with a professional quality electric piano, a
barbeque for the Cottage and a high definition projector.
Brotherhood
continually seeks ways
to enrich the lives of
our congregants. In
May we hosted
Diaspora Dinner
XVIII. This summer
we are organizing the
first annual Jewish
Heritage Day with the
San Jose Giants on
August 2
and the annual
Brotherhood/
Sisterhood
pool party at
the JCC on
August 9.
Finally,
Brotherhood is
always available
to lend a hand,
whether it is serving drinks at our annual fundraiser or volunteering
at Mitzvah Day.
I’m looking forward to my second (and final) term as Brotherhood
President. I am hopeful that it will be as rewarding as my first. In
order to assure our continued success Jonathan Hirshon is
organizing a two day retreat at the Mercy Center on June 20 and 21.
June 20 will be dedicated to reviewing the successes and failures of
the past year and planning for the future. June 21 will be dedicated
to enriching your spiritual life.
If you would like to join our gang of merry men or attend the retreat
please let me know; [email protected]. I look forward to
hearing from you.
Bob Levy, Brotherhood President
[email protected]
Preschool
Our Preschool year has come to an end and it has been an amazing
year! From the first days of school and the tears of both children
and parents to the exciting Israel week, we have taken parts in
experiences that shape our futures. Memories were created on the
playground, at our potlucks, in our classrooms and in our everyday
exchanges of hugs and smiles.
I would like to sincerely thank my amazing teaching staff for a
successful year! Thank you Leah, Cheriel, Jen, Kari, Kira, Christina,
Patricia, Lisha, Nicole and Daisy!!
Thanks must go out to Rabbi Magat and Cantor Meeka. They
brought us love, smiles and an understanding of what it means to be
Jewish.
Our Preschool Committee has supported the preschool in every way
imaginable, including teacher appreciation lunches. Thanks to Dana
Brody Brown, Alissa Meltzer, Andrea Allen-Shively, Carol Hoffman,
Kris Campisi and Kathy Jenkins!
Giant thanks to the preschool families. Knowing that the parents are
supporting the preschool, teachers and me has given us all
encouragement throughout the year.
Enjoy the pictures that happily express the adventures of our year.
We are looking forward to an exciting summer and a school year that
is just around the corner.
Happy summer!!
Barb Smead
[email protected]
Religious School
6
Team Mitzvah Makers Walk through the Night
As the morning light warmed the ground at Townsend Field in Santa
Clara, students from Suellen Haggerty’s 6th grade class begin to arrive
in preparation for the Relay for Life on Saturday, May 17. This event,
held across America at various times of the year, raises funds and
awareness for the American Cancer Society’s war on cancer. With
Suellen as Team Captain, and Sharon Barowsky as her able CoCaptain, the 6th grade Mitzvah Makers dedicated their last weekend of
Religious School to participate in this transformative 24-hour event,
along with more than 25 other teams.
When the dust settled, at 10:00am, Sunday morning, Team Mitzvah
Makers surpassed their fundraising target of $2,000. In fact, they raised
over $3,400! For some, it was quite personal, having lost a close
family member or friend to cancer. For other students, it was more of
a supportive event, an opportunity to stand beside a classmate who
was touched by loss. Whatever their motivation, their enthusiasm was
high and they knew they were participating in an event that would help
to make a difference in the fight against cancer.
The weather became a challenge when the thermometer topped 95
degrees, but it didn’t diminish the energy of Team Mitzvah Makers.
Ruth Pangilinan, Suellen and several students, armed with ice water
filled squirt bottles, positioned themselves on the track in front of the
Mitzvah Maker encampment. They took aim at passers-by, in an effort
to give them some relief from the oppressive heat. Some walkers even
stopped and waited to be squirted…what a mitzvah!
In an effort to raise additional funds on Saturday, students made
friendship bracelets to sell to walkers as they passed by. Some of the
Relay participants placed special orders for particular sizes and colors
and our students were happy to oblige. Students showed such pride
seeing their creations on the wrists of walkers.
Rachel Michelberg, was on-hand to lead the team in Havdallah. It
was heartening to see this dedicated group of young people engaged
in such a spiritual ritual. During this magical time, many of the
other Relay participants gathered in close to see what was happening.
Some of them even decided to join in by raising their hands towards
the flame!
Rabbi Magat visited the Team to lend supportive words and infuse
them with additional spirit as they looked towards the final 10 hours
of the Relay (and the most difficult hours – midnight to 10:00am).
Rules of the Relay require that a member of the Team be on the track
at all times. Fortunately, Team Mitzvah Makers had some pinchhitting teens: Jacqueline Haggerty, Nolan Johnson, Isabel Haggerty
and Ben Lilly. The track belonged to them throughout the night,
covering over 100 miles of distance in total!
Many factors went into making this a successful and meaningful event
for our students. Parents were very supportive, in part by trusting this
would be a positive experience for their children and by ferrying
supplies to the field throughout the day! Thank you to everyone who
had a hand in helping Suellen make this happen for Team Mitzvah
Makers. Based on comments made by parents and students alike, it is
clear that this event will have a lasting impression on our 6th grade
Mitzvah Makers and they will be forever more engaged in Tikkun
Olam (repairing the world). What a fitting end to their year spent
learning about the Jewish life cycle and their increasing responsibilities
as they ascend to the position of becoming b’nai mitzvah. To Suellen
and the Mitzvah Makers…a giant Yashir Ko’ach (Hebrew for May Your
Strength Be Firm”)!
Nite at
the Races
7
Thank
Nite at the Races was a great night out! On May 2, the Run for the
Roses continued in the Temple House, decorated in red, white and
black with a bouquet of red roses at every table and handmade derby
hats hanging on the walls. The men donned their derby hats and the
women were decked out in traditional derby attire from the large
straw hats with flowers and feathers to their dancing shoes. The
Brotherhood Band rocked the house with guest appearances from
the Rabbi, Meeka and Laura Danoff-Robinson. The menu included
BBQ tri-tip, chicken satay, grilled vegetables and homemade pecan
pie to top it off. With over 100 people in attendance, a grand time at
the Grand Stand was had by all!
The event was made possible by an extraordinary committee of
temple members, of all ages who worked tirelessly and from the heart
to make the evening a huge success. A warm and hearty thanks to:
Judie and Ivan Aronson
Mort and Barbara Berlant
Marci Gerston
Merry Kranz
Ray and Bobi Levine
David Mimeles
Nani Noverita
Greg Turetzky
Nancy Weintraub
Deborah Zimmer
Neil Frank
A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors:
Thoroughbreds Circle:
Board of Trustees Sisterhood
Owners Circle:
Stephen and Arlene Greenberg
Rabbi Dana Magat and Family
The Brotherhood Band
Steve Krandel and Family
Jockeys Circle:
Edward and Marjorie Cahn
Marci Gerston
Ray and Bobi Levine JoAnn Shank Deborah Zimmer
Trainers Circle:
Mort and Barbara Berlant
Sandy and Burt Epstein
Larry and Elisa Gerston
Edgardo and Andrea Laber
David Mimeles and Family
Joseph and Marcia Riggio
Judith Sapper
Dr. Sid and Rosalie Sogolow
Barry and Mary Cohen
Marvin and Joan Fox
Robert and JoAnne Hersch
Ron Mandel and Sharon Genkin
Sharon and Gerald Prizant
Alfred and Bunny Roth
Richard and Eleanor Rusnak
Please support the businesses who supported Nite at the Races
Almaden Valley Athletic Club
San Jose
Bay Area Discovery Museum
Sausalito
Genesis Photography
Mountain View
Hagafen Cellars
Napa
San Francisco Ballet
San Francisco
San Jose Repertory Theatre
San Jose
The A’s Baseball Company
Oakland
Trader Joe’s - Prospect Ave.
San Jose
Yamagami’s Nursery
Cupertino
Fry’s Electronics
San Jose
Yous
8
Support Our
Advertisers
Introducing the JCC
Social Membership
3
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BALLOON AND EVENT DÉCOR
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Weddings
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Discounts on programs and classes, including
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Discount passes to the Fitness and Aquatics
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Free use of the Aquatics Center on Sundays
$200 of your Family fee, $100 of your Individual
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Addison-Penzak
Special Effects
Relax and let us make you feel like a guest at your own event!
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Call your Event Designer, Amy Blach, CBA
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Home of Peace
Cemetery & Mausoleum
Monterey Hwy & Curtner Ave
Call for an appointment
to discuss pre-need
arrangements, call
Bob Basuino
Administrator
408.439.1758
Founded in 1853
Owned and Operated
by Temple Emanu-El
South Bay Area’s only
Jewish-owned Cemetery,
Mausoleum and Columbarium
Silicon Valley
Levy Family Campus
14855 Oka Road, Los Gatos, CA 95032
408.356.4973 www.svjcc.org [email protected]
9
Ritual
How Serendipity Played a Role in Our New
Tallit/Prayerbook Rack
Many of you may have observed a rack, beautifully displaying our
new tallit (prayer shawl, tallitot, plural) and associated prayer books
in our lobby on your way to the sanctuary. What you may not know
is the long history associated with its original concept and its many
tortuous paths leading to its ultimate completion as a worthwhile
adjunct to our ritual worship. Serendipity (the facility of finding
valuable or agreeable things not sought for) truly played an
important role in this fascinating journey of discovery, leading to its
final fruition.
As a long-time member of our Temple & Ritual Committee (over 50
years), I became increasingly perturbed about the way we displayed
one of our revered items in ritual prayer. Our tallitot were
unceremoniously folded in a basket or box. I had envisioned a new
set of tallitot, vertically displayed and hanging on bars on an open
rack in the lobby, similar to the ones at Shir Hadash and Beth David.
This would serve to make the tallitot more readily accessible and
enhance our ritual worship as the occasion may warrant. I vowed to
donate the cost of the entire undertaking.
This concern, on my part, increased as the ritual practices of Reform
Judaism have gradually evolved from “Classical Reform” (minimal
emphasis on ritual, as well as Hebrew) to the increasingly
“traditional“ aspects of Reform Judaism of today. This process was
the result of re-examining and
readapting our ritual worship
practices to meet our everevolving spiritual needs, as viewed
by the latest platforms of Reform
Judaism.
As a biblical reference to this
unfolding saga of discovery and
final fruition (the tallit/prayer
book rack), it is important to
understand the traditional Torah
origin of this significant ritual
accompaniment to Jewish prayer.
The biblical source for the Tallit is
Numbers 15: 27-41, where Moses
is told to “speak to the children of
Israel & bid them to affix fringes
(tzitzit) to the corners of their
garments” so that whenever these
fringes are seen, they will be
reminded of God’s
commandments & observe them.
The Tallit was created as a
garment to hold the tzitziot (plural
for tzitzit). According to Rabbi J. Telushkin (Jewish Literacy, pg.659),
“the law concerning the ritual fringes, known as Tzitzit, is one of
relatively few biblical laws for which the Torah offers a reason.”
Alfred J. Kolatch, (The Jewish Book of Why, Book I, pg. 99), states
that “of all the ritual garb associated with Jewish life, none is more
important than the tallit (and tefilin, for the more traditional)”. The
Rabbinic tradition understands the tallit, and more specifically, the
tzitzit, as a physical sign that marks Israel as a separate people.
Tallit Rack
10
Many have asked “How does the wearing of ritual clothing, i.e.,
tallit, kippah/yarmulka, affect your attitude and behavior during
prayer?” Some answers (from various Jewish sources on the
websites): “The wearing of the tallit may serve to deepen one’s
concentration- much like the ritual followed by many worshippers
who close their eyes when reciting the Shema.” “Wearing a tallit also
helps one to feel sanctified in the service of God”.
Rabbi Hayim Donin, (To Pray as a Jew, p.155 in Rabbi Telushkin’s
Jewish Literacy p. 659) asks “How does the mere act of looking
upon tzitzit serve to remind one of God’s commandments? I suggest
that it’s like a uniform worn by soldiers in the army. When wearing a
uniform, one is especially mindful to whom one owes one’s
allegiance.”
Thanks to our constantly evolving practices, Reform Judaism is now
committed to full equality of the sexes (egalitarian) in its ritual and
governance and committed to the concept of autonomy in which all
Jews are able to make their own informed choices about how they
observe Jewish tradition. This could lead to closer communion with
God and community.
Now here is a brief review of the significant milestones leading to
the creation of the current tallit/prayerbook mobile rack. These
events cover a period of close to 4 years.






Late 2004-2005 - Visited both Shir Hadash & Beth
David to decide on preferred design for tallit rack. Two
designs were made and constructed, but rejected for
various reasons including poor finish, color,
workmanship and location.
Rabbi Magat’s rack recommendations: mobile, wooden
tallit rack, preferably patterned after Beth David,
including space for prayer books and kippot.
2007- Futile search of websites and other sources for
suitable rack by Jane Jacobson (former Executive
Director), Peggy Frederick (Gift Shop Chair) and
myself.
2008- Jane hears about Dan Lee’s hobby of woodworking and approaches Dan to possibly design/build
a suitable rack.
2008- A Miracle of Miracles--Serendipity arrives:
Accidental discovery by Dan and Shirley Lee of a long
sought-after tallit/prayerbook rack in a synagogue in
Hong Kong which met our requirements. A photo of
same met with unanimous approval by Temple Board,
Facilities Committee (Uri Gottfeld), Rabbi , Ritual
Committee, etc.
Dec 2008- Submission of final design drawings and
completion of our magnificent furniture-grade, mobile
tallit/prayer book rack by Dan Lee.
Dan used Do-It-Yourself Woodshop to facilitate job. Bruce
Frederick selected varnish to match lobby woodwork. Uri helped
Dan move the rack to temple. The rack could easily be moved to the
outside patio for summer services or to the BFR for Saturday
Morning Minyan services. The fortuitous union of the three people
most directly involved (Dan, Jane and myself) must have been
bashert (destined) by God.
Mazel Tov!
Sid Rosenberg
Events
Community
Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley
Provides Caring for the Caregivers Groups
A Support Group for Spouses and Adult Children
Caring For Chronically Ill/Disabled Loved Ones
A place for supporting, empathizing and providing invaluable
information in an atmosphere of companionship and care.
Held on site at
JFS SV on the 1st
and 3rd Tuesdays
of the month,
2:30pm to
4:00pm, and at
Chai House on
the 2nd and 4th
Tuesdays of the
month, 6:30pm
to 8:00pm.
Your Unwanted Car Will Help
My Nana & Papa
Fee: $10.00 per
session; sliding
scale available
Facilitators:
Rebecca Resheff,
MSW, MA Psyc.,
and Avital Agam,
BSW
Donate your car, boat or motor home to
Jewish Family Service and help provide services for
seniors, children and families in Silicon Valley.
To Donate Call:
(877)JFS-4CAR (toll free)
For more information and registration please call Avital Agam,
408.357.7450.
Mah Johng Tournament returns to the Villages
Friday, June 12 at 10:00am
at the Villages Clubhouse
$25.00 - $30.00
Includes lunch catered by Villages Clubhouse
Make your reservations now by calling:
For Tournament - Bernice Vitcov 408.274.0697
For other games - Janet Truman 408.238.3803
Tell your friends! Support Hadassah and have fun, too!
Sponsored by Hadassah.
537.4227
 Free Pick-Up
 Tax receipt given
 No smog required
Community Mikvah Dedication, Learning
and Afternoon Tea
Sunday, June 7 from 2:00pm - 5:00pm at Levy Family Campus
Explore the
meaning of
Mikvah, an ancient
tradition of
immersing in
natural waters for
spirituality,
rejuvenation,
reflection…
Discover the modern value of Mikvah for men and women of all
ages and life experiences. Learn how Mikvah can be a part of your
Jewish journey.
Register online at www.jvalley.org. For more information or to set
up an appointment call the Mikvah line at 408.357.7444.
11
June Calendar
Tuesday June 2
7:00pm Board of Trustees Meeting
Thursday June 4
7:00pm Sisterhood Dinner and Meeting
Friday June 5
6:30pm Kabbalat Shabbat Services – Patio Services Start
Saturday June 6
9:00am Shabbat Morning Minyan
7:00pm Neighborhood Havdallah
Sunday June 7
11:00am Israel in the Gardens – Yerba Buena Gardens, SF
2:00pm The Big Splash – Opening Celebration of the
Community Mikvah at the Levy Family Campus
Wednesday June 10
7:00pm Survival in Shanghai Book Signing and Discussion
Friday June 12
10:00am Preschool Graduation
12:00pm Israel Trip Meeting
6:30pm Kabbalat Shabbat Service
Saturday June 13
10:00am South Pay Bride Shabbat at Temple Emanu-El
Friday June 19
6:30pm Tot Shabbat /Kabbalat Shabbat Service
Saturday June 20
9:00am Shabbat Morning Minyan
Friday June 19
6:30pm Kabbalat Shabbat Service
Saturday June 20
9:00am Shabbat Morning Minyan
Friday June 26
6:30pm Sing It Yourself Shabbat
Saturday June 27
9:00am Shabbat Morning Minyan
Sunday June 28
9:00am All Sisterhood Day
Shabbat Candle Lighting Times - June
July Calendar
Monday June 29
7:00pm Israel Trip Meeting
Wednesday July 1 - 15
Congregational Trip to Israel
Friday July 3
6:30pm Kabbalat Shabbat Service
Saturday July 4
9:00am Shabbat Morning Minyan
Friday July 10
6:30pm Kabbalat Shabbat Service
Saturday July 11
9:00am Shabbat Morning Minyan
Friday July 17
6:30pm Tot Shabbat /Kabbalat Shabbat Service
Saturday July 18
9:00am Shabbat Morning Minyan
Thursday July 23
11:00am Sisterhood Donor Luncheon
Friday July 24
6:30pm Kabbalat Shabbat Service
Saturday July 25
9:00am Shabbat Morning Minyan
Friday July 31
6:30pm Kabbalat Shabbat Service
Save the Dates!
August 2 – San Jose Giants Jewish Heritage Night
August 9 – Brotherhood/Sisterhood BBQ
September 18 – Erev Rosh Hashanah
September 26 – Shabbat Shuvah
September 27 – Erev Yom Kippur
Shabbat Candle Lighting Times - July
Friday, June 5
Light Candles at: 8:07 pm
Friday, July 3
Light Candles at: 8:14 pm
Shabbat, June 6
Shabbat Ends: 9:11 pm
Shabbat, July 4
Shabbat Ends: 9:18 pm
Friday, June 12
Light Candles at: 8:10 pm
Friday, July 10
Light Candles at: 8:12 pm
Shabbat, June 13
Shabbat Ends: 9:15 pm
Shabbat, July 11
Shabbat Ends: 9:16 pm
Friday, June 19
Light Candles at: 8:13 pm
Friday, July 17
Light Candles at: 8:09 pm
Shabbat, June 20
Shabbat Ends: 9:18 pm
Shabbat, July 18
Shabbat Ends: 9:12 pm
Friday, June 26
Light Candles at: 8:14 pm
Friday, July 24
Light Candles at: 8:05 pm
Shabbat, June 27
Shabbat Ends: 9:19 pm
Shabbat, July 25
Shabbat Ends: 9:06 pm
12
Commitment
Membership
Benefits of Membership
Whether you grew up loving religious school or you attend
services only once a year, there are innumerable benefits to
becoming a member at your local synagogue.
Spiritual Benefits
-Feeling nachas (pride) by supporting the Jewish community
-A place to turn: in crisis, times of joy, when you just want
to belong
-Volunteer opportunities
-Being connected to 5,769 years of Jewish history and tradition
Religious Benefits
By now congregant families have received their commitment
requests for the fiscal year 2009-2010. Thank you to everyone who
has returned their forms. If you have not yet done so, please mail
it as soon as possible to that we can be ready when the fiscal year
begins on July 1.
Because of the current economic situation, the Board of Trustees
has decided to continue the same program as last year. $1800 per
year per family or $900 per year per single member is still
considered the “Basic” level, but the “Sustaining” level of $2100
represents what it actually costs per family to keep our doors open.
It is only through your financial support that the synagogue can
provide all the benefits, including support for the Religious School,
worship services, adult education and all the many other functions
of our Jewish home. Please remember that you are affirming your
commitment to your Jewish heritage rather than paying “dues” as
one would to a health club or
social organization.
Over the past two years we have made significant progress towards
our goal of bringing all members to at least the Basic level, and
many members generously volunteered to “step-up” their
membership commitments to the Sustaining, Silver, Gold and
Platinum levels.
We will not be asking for increases from members who have
already made commitments at the Basic level or above; however, if
you are able to increase your level of giving, you would be helping
Temple Emanu-El become more financially sound
and continue the vibrant energy that has been established in
our congregation.
Thank you.
Bob Hersch
Financial Commitment Committee Chair
[email protected]
-Leaving a legacy to the next generation of Jews and those
who follow
-Life cycle event support: Baby Naming, Brit Milah,
Consecration, Bar/Bat Mitzvah, Confirmation, Wedding,
Counseling, Funeral, Shiva
-Clergy Support
-Membership subsidizes our Religious Schools
Social Benefits
-Feeling connected to the local and greater Jewish community
-Havurot (friendship groups)
-Extended Family
-Sisterhood, Brotherhood, Xtra Years of Zest (XYZ),
Youth Groups
Educational Benefits
-Continuing the Jewish tradition of learning
-Life-long learning opportunities (18 months – adult)
-Informational speakers on a variety of topics: Israel, Reform
Judaism, Tikkun Olam (Social Action), Multi-Culturalism,
Religious Pluralism, etc.
-Torah Study
-Hebrew Language Classes
Monetary Benefits
-Help to maintain a Jewish presence in the world
-Complimentary High Holy Day tickets for you and your
family, discounted High Holy Day tickets for your extended
family
-Priority enrollment and discounted tuition for our awardwinning preschool
-Discount on facility rental
-Income tax deductions
Intangible Benefits
- Innumerable!
13
L’Dor v’Dor
From Generation to Generation
14
L’Dor V’Dor-Three Generations Serving on
Temple Emanu-El Board
family for over 50 years. I want to give back for all that was given
to my family.”
The Krandel family takes the notion of L’Dor V’Dor (from
Generation to Generation) to heart with three generations of the
family serving together on the Temple Emanu-El Board of Trustees.
Steve Krandel, Ruth and Bob’s son, started his leadership at Temple
Emanu-El 30 years ago when, as President of Confirmation, he also
sat on the Religious school board, led by Ruth Krandel. Steve
was appointed to the board five
years ago and served while his dad
was president and then his mom
when she became president.
Sixteen-year-old Brent Ghan, the
newest member of the Board of
Trustees serves as co-president of the
Temple Emanu-El Senior Youth
Group. Brent represents the youngest
generation of the Krandels on the
Board. He joins his grandmother,
Ruth Krandel, immediate PastPresident of Temple Emanu-El and his
uncle (Ruth’s son), Steve Krandel, Vice
President of Administration and a
Board member for the past 5 years.
Brent, Ruth, and Steve did not plan
to serve on the board together as a
family. As longtime members of
Temple Emanu-El and leaders in the
community, it just happened. One thing is certain: the younger
generations of the Krandel family were inspired by their elders as
role models.
The Krandel family joined Temple Emanu-El 53 years ago and has
served in leadership positions for most of those years. Temple
Emanu-El is Santa Clara Valley’s first Jewish congregation
established in 1861. “I joined the temple with my mother. Bob and I
were married at the temple and our social life with our kids was
centered around the temple. It only seemed natural to get involved,”
recalls Ruth Krandel.
Ruth started her leadership at Temple Emanu-El in various
Sisterhood officer positions. “After some time I didn’t want to just
work with women, I wanted to help the entire temple community.”
From there she served on the Board of Trustees for several different
terms. Ruth also served as Chair of the Religious School Board,
Treasurer, and helped lead just about every committee available at
Temple Emanu-El. “While I was serving as Chair of the Religious
School Board, my daughter Lori was President of the Senior Youth
Group and my son Steve was President of Confirmation class, we all
decided to get my husband Bob Krandel involved.”
Both Ruth and Steve understand that it’s not always easy serving
with family members. Ruth explains, “When Bob became President,
I decided not to continue on the board. We wanted to support each
other and we have such strong opinions we felt we’d work best
together by focusing on different areas.” When not on the board,
Ruth led over 30 fundraising activities for the temple.
Two years ago, after Bob’s passing when he was Temple President,
Ruth stepped into the role to fill the void left by Bob and to carry
out his vision. “I care so much about the temple and the board,
but I’ve gotten so much more back than I’ve given many times
over. The past couple of years have been so difficult. After Bob
died, I was able to turn my attention to the temple. The temple
saved my life”.
This year Ruth is the board’s immediate past president and a leader
of a number of important committees. “The Temple has been my
“It was pretty weird being on the
board with either of my parents. I
have tried to be my own person for
a long time, but I was concerned
that I would simply be ‘the Krandel
kid’ and that my opinions would be
less considered. I think I built my
own reputation ahead of time (good
or bad) so this didn’t end up being a
problem. Serving under both my
dad and my mom proved to be
quite an experience. Both had
completely different leadership
styles but both really encouraged full participation from everyone on
the board”.
Anyone thinking that the Krandels form a political caucus need only
attend a board meeting to see that each has their own individual
perspective. “My mom and I have no issue at all disagreeing with
each other. My dad used to say that both my mom and I would
rather be right than happy. We have spent a lot of time over the
past two years trying to be right.” “Although we don’t always share
the same opinion on certain issues we agree that by being leaders
we’re playing an important role for the congregation. My biggest
sense of pride comes from being the board rep at a Bar/Bat
Mitzvah. It’s gratifying to see how well we prepare our kids for the
event and knowing that the work we do plays a part in helping kids
really find their Jewish identity.”
Brent Ghan, the youngest generation of Krandels appreciates the
interest the Board of Trustees and especially his grandmother takes
in investing in the success of the youth group. Brent was born into
the Krandel leadership legacy. His mother Lori (Krandel) Ghan
served as Senior Youth group president when she was in high
school. Brent explains, “I was most influenced by my grandfather
[Bob] to take a leadership role in the youth group.” When Brent
was appointed co-president of EESY he didn’t realize he’d be
serving on the Board of Trustees with his uncle and his
grandmother. However, Brent doesn’t take his legacy lightly, nor
does he consider it an entitlement. “It’s great to continue the
tradition of leadership on the board. I’m proud to have so much of
my family represented in temple leadership and to be able to give
back to the temple. While on the board, I’ve learned a lot about
how the leadership of the temple works. I see just how many people
it takes and how much work goes into the temple to make it as
successful as it is. It’s been a great learning experience. But, know
that I’m in my role because I want to be, not because of any pressure
to carry on the legacy.”
Next year, Steve Krandel will continue to serve on the Temple
Emanu-El Board of Trustees. But others in his family will be
nearby! You can count on it.
Young Men of Distinction
Temple Emanu-El Honors
Young Men of Distinction
Birthdays
June
1
3
4
5
6
Ben Lilly and Brent Ghan were honored along with a dozen teens
from local synagogues and Jewish agencies for their outstanding
dedication and commitment to serving their Jewish community.
Three years ago, Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley commenced the
Young Woman of Distinction as a way to encourage and honor teen
volunteerism in our community commensurate with their adult
counterparts. This year, the Jewish Federation chose to move the
Young Women of Distinction Award to the “Silicon Valley
Celebrates Israel” Celebration held in May at the Levy Family
Campus in Los Gatos. This offered the opportunity to honor young
men as well as young women of our community who represent our
mission and core values.
This year we honor two Young Men of Distinction, not just for their
efforts this year, but for their long standing contributions to Temple
Emanu-El and the Jewish community.
Brent Ghan has been involved in leadership roles for EESY (Temple
Emanu-El Senior Youth Group). This year he served as CoPresident of EESY. He is also heavily involved in NFTY (North
American Federation of Temple Youth), the URJ’s youth movement.
During his summers, Brent spends his time at Camp Newman-Swig
in the gorgeous Santa Rosa Hills where he will be a Counselor in
Training beginning this June. Brent is a junior at Willow Glen High
School where he plays on the varsity water polo and swim teams,
though he would much rather be found hanging out with his Jewish
friends. In his free time, Brent enjoys going to San Jose Sharks
games, photography and playing Frisbee.
Ben Lilly has served as one of our extraordinary Madrichim (student
teachers) at the Religious School for the past several years. Ben
periodically leads our Saturday morning minyan services and spends
one Friday a month leading Friday night services for seniors at
Lytton Gardens Senior Residence, an activity that he started at age
12 prior to his Bar Mitzvah almost five years ago. Last year, for Ben's
Eagle Scout project, he led over 35 volunteers organizing,
cataloguing, protecting, and storing historic items from Temple
Emanu-El’s archives. Ben is a junior at Homestead High School and
a student of Temple Emanu-El’s Beit Midrash Teen program. He
enjoys backpacking, reading, writing, learning languages and
performing in high school theater productions.
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
Bette Myers
John Nemec
Lucy Wargon
Stephen Reiss
Glen Hoop
Jack Chase
Michelle Kusanovich
Carol Thailer
David Heiman
Janet Katz
Michael Holt
Mike Rubin
Robyn Levine
Danielle Friedman
Ivan Aronson
Sarah Roberts
Shellie Cohen
Aviva Jacobstein
Robert Applebaum
Bert Heyman
Tzvia Cahn
Geraldine Levy
Simon Silin
Steve Carter
William Wood
Rosalyn Applebaum
Michael Roberts
Rubin Jurman
Susan Timpson
Deborah Michels
Edward Cahn
Hope Hoop
Joel Cahn
Nicole Hansen
Samantha Meister
Betty Rossman
Brent Ghan
Ben Polgar
Byron Lilly
Larry Cherniss
Hannah Mimeles
Ruth Cahn
Peter Hubert
Sandra Feldman
Spencer Lowry
Brian Fox
Hugh Silin
Ruth Krandel
Bill Schneiderman
David Ledwitz
James Heerwagen
Jonathan
Rubin Wargon
David Meister
Justin Polgar
Seema Jaffee
Brad Wall
Doris Rosenberg
Becca Bronstein
Mark Cahn
Randy Levinson
Ray Levine
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
Bernice Vitcov
Jacob Baker
Melissa Israel
Arlene Ravel
Bernie Levine
Marian Bergoffen
Neil Frank
Jan Silverman
Larry Fox
Libby Werba
Nancy Weintraub
July
1
3
4
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
18
19
20
21
22
22
23
Deborah Jacobstein
Ron Blumstein
Aaron Levy
Joyce Mendel
Joe Gabriel
Jonathan Jackel
Carter Johnson
Isabel Haggerty
Steve Jackman
Annie Kaufman
Fabio Marino
Benjamin Aronson
David Snyder
Sally Ravel
Jared Bicknell
Michael Chacon
Lonnie Hoffman
Norma Cohn
Spencer Marsh
Johanna Applebaum
Kathy Aronson
Rhea Carter
Lois Matusow
Eric Pangilinan
Frances K. Powell
Rita Seldon
John Fox
Stephen Greenberg
Elyssa Hurwitz
Laura Danoff-Robinson
Shannon Brown
Naomi Cahn
Bruce Matzner
Pamela Schuur
Richard Albert
Idelle Cagan
Julia Goldstein
Lauren Just
Sydney Mimeles
Andrew Weinberg
Deborah Ong
Margaret Cooper
Elisa Gerston
Sydney Levin
Molly Guadiamos
Robert Newman
Yvonne Pan
Julie Sachse
15
Birthdays and Anniversaries
24 Annette Ladowitz
George Mirth
25 Marilyn Leiter
Philip Schwarz
27 Pauline Braunstein
Fredda Just
29 Edith Argabrite
16
30 Dawn Chaffin
Faye Gendzel
Scott Lowry
Jeffrey Marsh
31 Philip Hammer
Thomas MacLean
Ethel Ress
June Anniversaries
3 Eugene and Marilyn Handloff
9 Henry and Susan Walaszczyk
Dave and Meeka Simerly
10 Humberto and Andrea Chacon
Gary and Melissa Katz
Leonard and
Deborah Schreibstein
12 Manny and Amy Cappello
13 Lawrence and Ruth Ross
14 Dan and Shirley Lee
Randy and Jackie Levinson
Doug and Suzanne Tobin
15 Andrew and Michelle Katcher
Richard and Eleanor Rusnak
Lonna and Michael Smith
16 Michael and Ruth Cahn
Joe and Armeda Fischer
Melvin and Sybil Sommer
18 Burt and Sandy Epstein
Bob and Kelly Kaufman
19 Michael and Susan Roberts
20 Matthew and Lorraine Gabbert
Philip and Roma Green
Rubin and Lucy Wargon
21 Jake and Pauline Braunstein
Mark and Bette Emanuel
Michael Friedman
Herm and Beryl Greenberg
22 llan and Judith Bernstein
25 Jerry and Ilene Levine
26 Ed and Marjorie Cahn
Bernie and Ruth Rosenberg
29 Walter and Robin Hurwitz
Herb and Valerie Pomarantz
30 David and Janet Berg
Thom and Wendy MacLean
Andrew Weinberg and
Lynn Offenhartz
Religious School Cont.
July Anniversaries
1
3
4
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
14
17
18
19
20
21
22
26
27
28
There is fabulous
merchandise in the
Emanu-El
Judaica Shop!
Temple Emanu-El Sisterhood operates
the gift shop and all profits are given to
the synagogue. Call for an appointment,
408.292.0939 or just stop by during
regular temple office hours.
Arcadi and Denise Elbert
Mac and Leann Makhni
Jeff and Missy Marsh
Adit Squarer and
James Beninghaus
Ken and Linnea Abrams
Alex and Anna Faaborg
Harold Welch and
Paula Marsh
Perry Segal and
Michelle Indianer
Bob and Rhonda Hansen
Greg and Sharon Turetzky
Milton and Phyllis Shuch
Eric and Martha Jepsky
Steven and Lois Matusow
Dan and Laura Winter
David and Randie Schwartz
Mort and Marilyn Leiter
Terry Barwegen and
Laura Fujieda
Laura Danoff-Robinson and
Gordon Robinson
Julie and Matt Sachse
Butch and Laura DiSessa
Stephen and
Christine Sedler
Jerry and Sheri Prizant
Glenn Holt and
Jill Jacobson
Berry and Terri Kane
Al and Lorie Kaplan
Tom and
Bonnie Marantette
Gerry and Gail Jacobs
Student Reflections:
Maggie - I hope by next year, they will be closer to finding a cure for
cancer. Cancer affects a lot of people.
Ayana - I feel good about this experience because it is fun and I feel
like I’m helping millions of people by raising money.
Jonathan - I’m walking to show respect and honor to the people
who have been affected by cancer. I want them to know that we care
and are trying to help.
Spencer - Many members of my family have had cancer and I’m
walking to honor them. I also want to help raise money to find a
cure.
Sarah - I am here to honor the memory of my piano teacher. She
died of cancer…this is very personal for me.
Arianna - I’m really enjoying being part of this experience. I’d do this
again, even if it weren’t part of a class project because it is raising
money for a good cause.
Meilani - I’m walking in honor of those who have suffered with
cancer and survived and in memory of those who have suffered and
lost the battle.
Hannah - This is really meaningful for me especially because I lost
my grandmother to cancer. It is a really wonderful experience and it
makes you feel warm inside your heart.
Marshall - I am walking to raise money to fund scientists, so they can
find a cure for cancer.
Alex - Even though I don’t have any family members affected by
cancer, I think I should contribute to the cause because people die.
Jake - I’m walking for a cure. My grandfather had cancer and
luckily he survived. But cancer is so hard on many families and it
tears them apart.
Ally - I’m walking in honor of both my aunts who were stricken
with cancer. I hope more people become aware that cancer is
spreading fast.
Thank You
Donations
RABBI’S DISCRETIONARY FUND
In memory of
Nathan Litman
Lorie and Shari Kaplan
Bernie Bernstein
Allan and Judith Bernstein
Julian Forster
Molly Bain
Frieda Forster
Meyer Eisenberg
Anita Eisenberg
Neal Eisenberg
In appreciation of
Rabbi Magat
Irvin Becker
In honor of
Wayne Rose
Dorothy Frankel
Kristina Fernandez’ Bat Mitzvah
Carol Hoffman
Dorothy Frankel’s birthday
Frieda Forster
Donation
Sid and Bernice Green
CANTORIAL DISCRETIONARY FUND
In honor of
Meeka’s graduation
Judith Sapper
Kristina Fernandez’ Bat Mitzvah
Carol Hoffman
In memory of
Sam Mintzer
Judith Sapper
GENERAL FUND
In memory of
Kate Mamon
Debby and Howard Katzman
Eleanore Goldfinger
Clarence Goldfinger
Isaac Miller
Golda Miller
Robert Harold Cohn
Norma Cohn
Helen Hersch
Jack Gardner
Robert and JoAnne Hersch
Donation
Henry and Debra Watkins
Elsa Gordon
JUDITH JURMAN OMENS CEMETERY
BEAUTIFICATION FUND
In memory of
George Rittenberg
Percy and Anna Bronstein
Diane Rittenberg
In appreciation of
Wayne Rose
Selma Karchem
BETTY RINSLER RELIGIOUS SCHOOL FUND
In memory of
Eric Rinsler
Leo Rinsler and Family
Randy Reiser
David and Esther Reiser
RELIGIOUS SCHOOL FUND
In memory of
Harry Simon
Ethel Ress
In honor of
Pam Hoffman’s birthday
The Chappells
Ruth Ross’ special birthday
Ruth Krandel
BERT BERNS MUSIC FUND
In memory of
Irwin Tuttelman
Oda Livchitz
MAURICE TUCKER HIGH HOLY DAY MUSIC FUND
In honor of
Susanne Tucker
Jill Carroll
Donation
Susanne Tucker
LEVIN LEARNING CENTER FUND
Donation
Gordon and Barbara Weingarten
WEINTRAUB RELIGIOUS SCHOOL
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In memory of
Sidney Huchital
The Huchley Family
Thank you to the preceding congregants and friends who remembered Temple Emanu-El with their generous contributions.
Donations made after May 15, 2009 will be listed in the August 2009 issue of Connections.
17
June Yahrzeits
We note, with sorrow, the death of
Forest Greene, boyfriend of Al and Estelle Kadis’ daughter
Harry Simon, nephew of Ethel Ress
Ruth Clark, mother of Diane Clark Hinz and Stacey Clark Ohara
Barton Dafoe, husband of Veronika Agranov Dafoe
Harold Polgar, father of Douglas Polgar
June 5
Anna Becker, Maxwell H. Bloom, Ida Clayton, Murray Dwosken,
Minnie Fagen, Dr. N. William Forest, Isaac Friedland, Morris
Gerston, Sarah Goide, Samuel Golstein, Leon Gordon, Sidney
Greenberg, Violet Hutchins, Sarah Kaufman, Jennie Laskey, Harry
H. Leiter, Lawrence Lewis, Albert Ludwig, Reeva Pearlstein, Samuel
Renkosinsky, Cyril Rosenberg, Abraham Rubenstein, Leah Rubin,
Minnie Schaffer, Herbert Hermann Schwalbe, Isadore Seelig,
Abraham J. Shragge, Meyer Simon, Franziska Steinberg, Bertha
Treister, Frances Vilutis, Joseph Hart Walters, Joyce Wolf,
Debbie Wolfson
June 12
Aaron Abelson, David Annan, Leona Lewis Atlas, Elsie Ball, Louis
Ball, Helene Breslauer, Lollie Shaffer Brickner, Larry Chatoff,
Gertrude Davidson, Frieda Friedman, Marvin Gallop, Helen L.
Gates, Leon M. Gellman, Jennie Gillen, Eva Golden, Mark
Goldstein, Rose Goldstein, Michael Goodman, Betty Gordon,
Cheryl Harland, Phyllis Isaacs, Stanley Kaisel, Sam Klugman, Louis
Lepler, Minnie Lepler, Siegmund Mendel, Phyllis Messinger, Pauline
Milgrom, Dr. Sam Miller, Rose Morris, Harold Newman, Max
Novikoff, Mickey Penner, Ted Pollak, Larry Rosenberg, David
Saltzman, Anna Shuch, Sarah Silver
June 19
Reba Alberts, Suzanne Dolgin, Max Glantz, Neil Grossman, Lena
Hetzer, Eva Honig, William Israel Katz, Harry Konits, Jack Krulan,
Gertrude Kulakofsky, Robert S. Levy, Amy D. Lowy, Emanuel
Mauskopf, Sophie Meyerson, Don Miller, Helen Miller, Helen Miller,
Louis Nerenberg, Susan Parnell, Mark Pearlman, Sam Penner,
Dorothy Pinsker, Mary Port, Jean Reiter, Aaron A. Richards, Leon
Rubin, Sarah Salzberg, Alex Schaechter, Max Schonwetter, Mary
Schwartz, Louis Shapiro, Mark Siegel, Ben Woron
June 26
David Abraham Arick, Anna Bronstein, Ben Byer, Brenda Heller
Cowen, Elias A. Eigen, Louis Friedman, Zelma Friedman, Joseph E.
Goldeen, Philip Hammer, Richard Hirsch, Ruth Hoffman, Carol
Kaufman, Constance Kinspel, Samuel Laskey, Irving J. Levy, Evelyn
Marquis, Ruth Matzner, Robert Mauskopf, Louis Milgrom, Berta
Milman, Bessie Pollack, Ruth Rubin, Alan Schneider, Yetta
Schneider, Shirley Shain, Morris Silver, Idelle Roll Smith, Ben
Spector, Ruth Stein, Jacob M. Talkovsky, Meyer E. Tepper,
Celia Wicksman, Dodd Young
July Yahrzeits
18
July 3
Marlene Albert, Gerald Benson, Sarah Berman, Anita Blaustein,
Ruth Cohen, Edwin Delman, Hilde Doron, Minnie Frederick, Harry
Friedman, Leon Gerris, Doretta Given, Pauline Grant, Elaine
Herzog, Sonia Hirsh, Miriam Hunter, Lawrence H. Kandel, Jack
Krown, Ruth Kay Leiter, Sarah Lenchner, Irving Levin, Martha
Rachel Levine, Sidney Levine, Sandra Medler, Dorothy Meshel,
Theresa Messinger, Stefanie Newhouse, Kurt G. Opper, Oscar
Panikoff, Aaron S. Pencovic, Maria Perr, Harry Popkin, Harry
Popkin, Sam Ravel, Aaron Ress, Samuel Rudin, Albert Rudolph,
Ernesto Schkolnick, Abraham Seldon, Rose Uberman, Sophie Van
Rosam, Nancy P. Wright, Phillip Zabinsky
July 10
Shirley Azen, Leslie Bamburg, Max Blum, Rifka Burman
Marshalkovitz, Arthur Cagan, David A. Cohen, Corinne Gold, John
Grayson, Elizabeth Green, Esther Jacobson, Max Kaufmann, Rose
Kaufmann, Edith Stein Kovnat, Ada Kramer, Jack Leiter, Gertrude
Lewis, Leo Lindauer, Ruth C. Madsen, Gertrude K. Marcus, Isadore
Marks, Hannah Morris, Morris Joseph Peretz, Escher Pintoff, Helga
Oster Remak, Rachel Rhein, Chester Schneider, Harry D. Schwartz,
William Schwartz, Leo Siegel, Molly Siegler, Edward Thomas,
Clorine Wheeler, Sol P. Wilets, Roberts J. Wright, Simon Zwern
July 17
Irving Goodman Bobb, Jack Brandman, Sidney Brash, Morris
Burman, Siegfried Danziger, Gertrude Fischer, Sam Fischer, Harry
Fredkin, Bert W. Gates, Jacob Goldberg, Daniel Harris, Gussie
Hirsch, Jacob Hubert, Evelyn Hutchins, Bertha Jacobs, Esther
Koves, Benjamin Krandel, Oscar Lavin, Joseph S. Lerner, Ann
Lewon, Frank Loren, Rivka Burman Marshalkovitz, Phyllis Matzner,
David Perr, Richard N. Salle, Natalie Schmerz, Elizabeth Schneider,
Helen Siegel, Morley Silverman, Hal Turkus
July 24
Louis Berlant, Edward Cant, Arthur Decker, Anita Ellner, Estelle
Farbstein, Ernesto Fliker, Charles Galin, Sidney J. Gambord, Lionel
Gillston, Morris Hirsch, Abraham Hirsh, Rachel Jacobson, Gladys
Kreisber, Dr. Louis Lackner, Max Landman, Robert M. Leiter, David
Levin, Lilly Levine, Helen McDougal, Morris Nadel, Phyllis Omel,
Millie Penner, Bernard Rosen, Joseph Rudin, Frieda Sapper, Samuel
J. Schneider, Joseph Shanske, Pauline Shine, Allen Siegel, George
Sturr, Sunny Sunshine, Benjamin Thailer, Esther Weiner, Jacob
Witkin, Emil Wolfson
July 31
Mark Bach, Lottie Berman, Rose Blickman, Alfred Brenner, Mildred
Borts Brisken, Bernice Brochin, Lena Carl, Isidor Farber, Sam
Fishoff, Samuel Gerstley, Annette Golstein, Pat L. Hunter, Leo
Ivener, Julius Katzman, Victor Levine, Milton Lichtbach, Herbert
Marchick, Bettie Miller, Solomon Miller, Rose Nerenberg, Isaak
Orloff, Joseph Pintoff, Mildred Rakovsky, Herbert Ravel, Sarah
Richards, Henry Rosensweig, Aaron Rosenthal, Jack Rotofsky, Max
Sachs, Verleen Salak, Abraham Salzberg, Fritzi Schaechter, Dr.
Solomon S. Sogg, Mary Sokolov, Hippolito Soto, Harry Arnold
Stern, Joanne Tehrani, Nathan Treister, Jeanette Waxman
Meeka’s Investiture
Leadership
Clergy
!‫מזל טוב‬
Dana L. Magat
Senior Rabbi
[email protected]
Meeka Simerly
Cantor
[email protected]
Joseph Gitin, D.D.
Rabbi Emeritus
Board of Trustees
President: Steve Greenberg [email protected]
Immediate Past President: Ruth Krandel [email protected]
VP Administration: Steve Krandel [email protected]
VP Membership: Laura Danoff-Robinson [email protected]
VP Education and Youth: Marci Gerston [email protected]
Secretary: Barry L. Cohen [email protected]
Treasurer: Joe Riggio [email protected]
Rich Albert
Uri Gottfeld
Steve Ladowitz
Eleanor Rusnak
Mazel Tov Cantor Meeka!
Mark Cahn
Jonathan Hirshon
David Mimeles
Michelle Schneiderman
Brotherhood President: Bob Levy [email protected]
Sisterhood President: Rita Loren [email protected]
EESY Presidents: Kristina Fernandez [email protected]
Cantor Meeka Simerly was invested over Memorial Day
weekend after years of study, hard work and dedication.
Committees
Marci Gerston
Bob Hersch
Uri Gottfeld
Kim Jackman
Sharon Genkin
Robin Hurwitz
Mark Cahn
Lori Telson
Rich Albert
We are proud of her for
completing the academic
part of her career. As
she tells her B’nai
Mitzvah students, the
journey has just begun!
We look forward to years
of growth, learning,
adventure and music at
Temple Emanu-El.
Kim Jackman
Ruth Pangilinan
Greg Turetzky
Adult Education
Dues
Facilities
Membership
Membership
Religious School
Ritual
Marketing
Tikkun Olam
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Membership
@templesanjose.org
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Staff
Yasher Koach!
Gloria Melmon Ascher
Realtor
12988 Saratoga/Sunnyvale Road
Saratoga, CA 95070
www.gloriaascher.com
Office 408.741.1111
Direct 408.741.1174 ex. 604
Fax 408.741.7076
Cell 408.781.8624
Nancy Weintraub
Interim Executive Director
[email protected]
408.292.0939
Paula Marsh
Religious School Principal
[email protected]
408.292.3223
Deborah Zimmer
Member Services Coordinator
[email protected]
408.292.0939
Beth Roellig
Religious School Assistant
[email protected]
408.292.3223
Marcy Weiss
Director of Informal
Education/Clergy Assistant
[email protected]
408.292.0939
Barbara Smead
Preschool Director
[email protected]
408.293.8660
MaryAnn Orlowski
Bookkeeper
[email protected]
408.292.0939
Bob Basuino
Cemetery Administrator
[email protected]
408.297.3636
Editor: Marcy Weiss
19
Temple Emanu-El
1010 University Avenue
San Jose, CA 95126
www.templesanjose.org
Non-Profit Org.
US POSTAGE 20
PAID
Permit No. 542
San Jose, CA
Address Service Requested
Operating and Tribute Funds:
General Fund
Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund
Cantor’s Discretionary Fund
Executive Director’s Discretionary Fund
Alvin Ravel Garden Fund
Beverly Jordan Temple Beautification Fund
Judith Jurman Omens Cemetery
Beautification Fund
Capital Campaign Fund
Lollie Brickner Media Center Fund
Lou and Clara Juren Library Fund
Ralph Goldeen Library Fund
Religious Funds:
Harold Cahn Prayerbook Fund
Herbert Marchick High Holy Day Fund
Kenneth Gordon Children’s Prayerbook Fund
Maurice Tucker High Holy Day Music Fund
Ida F. Kragen Consecration and Caring Fund
Youth Funds:
Religious School Fund
Religious School Enrichment Fund
Betty Rinsler Religious School Endowment Fund
Weintraub Religious School Scholarship Fund
Campership Fund
Leonard and Bernice Gaon Campership Fund
Michael Elman Campership Fund
Milton Fox Campership Fund
Phyllis Matzner Campership Fund
Israel Scholarship Fund
Susanne C. Blickman Arts and Crafts Fund
Cultural Funds:
Choir Fund
Andrew Apte Temple Historical Fund
Phyllis Omel Junior Choir Fund
Bertram Berns Music Fund
Shank-Rockman Family Sound System Fund
Community Funds:
Facilities for the Aged Fund (Chai House)
JoAnne Salman-Tehrani Homeless Fund
Other Tribute Opportunities:
$36 - Prayerbook Tribute
$218/$500/$750 - Tree of Life
Leaf/small/large rock
$500 - Sanctuary Chair Plaque
$750 - Memorial Plaque (in sanctuary foyer)
Opportunities in Levin Learning Center:
$5,000 - Stair Plaque
$10,000 - Library Column Dedication
$25,000 - Room Dedication
Contact the office for additional
opportunities.
Making a contribution to one of Temple Emanu-El’s many funds is a wonderful way to honor your friends and family. You may make contributions in honor of
a birth, birthday, brit milah, baby naming, Bar/Bat Mitzvah, Confirmation, graduation, engagement, wedding, anniversary, promotion, new home,
special occasion or just because. You may also make contributions for get-well wishes, condolence, remembrance and yahrzeits.