1. religion and spirituality
2. judaism

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)
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