February 2009 Tidings

CONGREGATION BETH ISRAEL OF SAN DIEGO  ALWAYS OPEN AT WWW.CBISD.ORG

THE GREENING OF CONGREGATION BETH ISRAEL

FEBRUARY 2009

INSIDE: WORSHIP SCHEDULE page 3

Look at My works. See how beautiful they are, how excellent. See to it that you do not spoil or destroy My world — for if you do, there will be no one to repair it after you. Midrash Ecclesiastes Rabbah 7:13

By Deborah DeBow Social Action Chair As we celebrate Tu B'Shevat, our "New Year for Trees" on February 9, we recognize the importance of protecting the environment, and the need to begin right in our own homes and on our beautiful CBI campus. As I write this we are putting final touches on plans for our third annual Environmental Fair - Live Green! - to take place February 1 at CBI. With a film and discussion panel, farmer's market, onsite recycling, landscape designer consultations and many exciting exhibitors and activities, this annual event highlights what each of us can do to benefit the planet. In the coming year, as we put what we learn into practice we will also see changes taking place at CBI. Last spring, at the recommendation of the Social Action Committee, CBI requested an energy audit from SDG&E. The resulting suggestions gave us a starting point to become more energy efficient. Staff is implementing energy efficiency changes in several major ways. The first is changing incandescent bulbs throughout the synagogue to fluorescents. New fluorescents have been installed in the conference room,

EDUCATION, PROGRAMS AND EVENTS page 4-11

eleev elevators, social hall and sanctuary san nc sconces, lobby downlighting and exterior do d wall lighting. The w ssecond change is to add Variable Fr Frequency re Drives (VFDs) to the water p pumps that circulate the chilled hill d water t for f our HVAC system (air conditioning unit). The VFDs enable the system to work less if there is less work to do. Currently our drives work on a simple on/off control. This works fine when all rooms are in need of cooling, but if only 1 or 2 rooms need cooling, a lot of energy is wasted because the water is sent throughout the whole building. The VFDs are scheduled to be finished by the end of February. Both the fluorescent bulb installation and the VFD installation will save on energy usage and extend the life of the equipment. Significant rebates from SDG&E will help to offset the cost of the new equipment. In addition, attractive and descriptive receptacles to encourage recycling are being purchased. We continue to explore ways to green our campus and reduce our carbon footprint. As always, we welcome your ideas and suggestions. Environmental Fair organizer Seekey Cacciatore, right, offers tips to attendees at last year's Fair.

COMMUNICATIONS SURVEY pages 12

BOARD BRIEFING page 12

PURIM FESTIVITIES back cover

The Kehillah Callers have been calling our members 70 years and older at Pesach and Rosh Hashanah for the past four years. The calls are greatly appreciated and really demonstrate what CBI's Caring Community means. We could use a few more Callers for Pesach; can you make 10 calls to join in this mitzvah? Please email Steve Gould at [email protected].

Giving at Congregation Beth Israel BU IL DI NG C OM MUNI T Y

&

C ONN EC T EDN ESS

LIGHT

WAY

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Needed: More Kehillah Callers

5769 A nnu al F u nd Appeal Light the way and help make it possible for Congregation Beth Israel to keep its doors open for all who wish to enter.

GIVE TODAY A listing of all contributors will appear in the late spring.

Recently at CBI Members of CBI joined with those of First Unitd Methodist Church of San Diego, the Islamic Center of San Diego, and other congregations to plan and participate in a Martin Luther King Jr. Interfaith Day of Service in Balboa Park. After a park cleanup project the 200 attendees enjoyed a community picnic and were entertained by the MADA Youth Gospel choir.

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Worship Schedule

www.cbisd.org/worship

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21

FRIDAY, MARCH 13

6:00 p.m. Tot Shabbat 6:00 p.m. Teen Shabbat 7:30 Erev Shabbat Service with special guest speaker Regina Waldman (see ad this page)

Torah Portion: Mishpatim Exod. 21:1 – 24:18 Haftarah: II Kings 12:5 – 12:16

7:00 p.m. Family Shabbat Service

8:30 a.m. Torah Study (Rabbi Berk)

SATURDAY, MARCH 14

10:00 a.m. Minyan Service

Torah Portion: Ki Tissa Exod. 30:11 – 34:35 Haftarah: Ezekiel 36:22 - 36

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7 Torah Portion: Beshalach Exod. 13:17 – 17:16 Haftarah: Judges 4:4 – 5:31

8:30 a.m. Torah Study (Rabbi Bohm) 10:00 a.m. Minyan Service Leader: Al Kohn Reader: Abbi Hirschfeld D’var Torah: Janice Alper

10:00 a.m. Shabbat Morning Service with Bar Mitzvah

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13 7:00 Family Shabbat Service

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14 Torah Portion: Yitro Exod. 18:1 – 20:23 Haftarah: Isaiah 6:1 – 7:6; 9:5 - 6

D’var Torah: Cynthia Wexler

10:00 a.m. Shabbat Morning Service with Bat Mitzvah

8:30 a.m. Torah Study (Rabbi Bohm)

4:00 p.m. Shabbat Afternoon Service with Bat Mitzvah

Leader: Avi Lowe Reader: Jo-Anne Berelowitz

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28 Torah Portion: Terumah Exod. 25:1 – 27:19 Haftarah: I Kings 5:26 – 6:13

8:30 a.m. Torah Study (Rabbi Berk) 10:00 a.m. Minyan Service D’var Torah: Jo-Anne Berelowitz

Leader: Avi Lowe Reader: Janice Alper D’var: Rabbi David Katz

SATURDAY, MARCH 7

7:30 p.m. Soul Food Shabbat Service

Regina Waldman at Erev Shabbat Services Friday, February 6

FRIDAY, MARCH 6

10:00 a.m. Minyan Service

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20

10:00 a.m. Shabbat Morning Service with Bat Mitzvah

7:30 p.m. Friday Night Chai Service

6:00 p.m. Tot Shabbat 6:00 p.m. Teen Shabbat 7:30 Erev Shabbat Service

8:30 a.m. Torah Study (Rabbi Bohm)

10:00 a.m. Minyan Service

Torah Portion: Tetzaveh Exod. 27:20 – 30:10 Haftarah: Esther 7:1; 8:15 - 17

8:30 a.m. Torah Study (Rabbi Berk) 10:00 a.m. Minyan Service Leader: Al Kohn Reader: Mary Marshall D’var Torah: Jane Lazerow

MONDAY, MARCH 9: PURIM 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Purim Extravaganza with parade, Megillah reading and schpiel, food and drink to follow. See details on back cover.

WAS YOUR CHILD BORN IN 1998?

Did you know that Baghdad was 40% Jewish until the 1940s? Few are aware that nearly one million Jews were made refugees from Arab countries. Come hear Regina Waldman, chair of JIMENA (Jews Indigenous to the Middle East and North Africa) tell her family story of exile from Libya. Regina Waldman has testified in Congress, the UN, and lectures at universities, human rights commissions, synagogues, churches and community centers.

If so, please attend the Bar/Bat Mitzvah Family Meeting in the David and Dorothea

Garfield Social Hall on Wed., March 18 at 7 p.m. It is a joy to contemplate the privilege of blessing your child at the milestone of Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Along with joys come the details. You should have received a packet of information and details concerning the setting of dates. If you did not andwww.cbisd.org believe your child 3is eligible, please contact Sonia Martinez immediately at 858 535-1111, ext. 3110, or [email protected]

DayTimers

www.cbisd.org/daytimers

PHOTOGRAPHIC ADVENTURES: A LIFE IN RETIREMENT

Afternoon Enrichment Program for Adults RSVP and pay for all DayTimers events at www.cbisd.org/rsvp. For more information visit our website at www.cbisd.org/daytimers, or contact Program Director Bonnie Graff at 858 535-1111 ext. 3800 or [email protected].

LIGHTS, CAMERA, FRIEDENBERG! with Andy Friedenberg Thursday, February 19 at 1:30 p.m. Learn what’s hot and what’s not in 2008-9 in the world of film. Four days before the 81st Annual Academy Awards, Academy member Andy Friedenberg, Director of the Cinema Society of San Diego, shares his thoughts with us about this year’s Oscar candidates. He will reveal his predictions of the big winners and lots of film lore that will fascinate and entertain. Don't miss the chance to get the scoop on “Oscar” buzz. $5 per person. Register and pay by Thursday, February 12.

Men's Club

with Sydney Wexler Thursday, March 19 at 1:30 p.m. An exciting presentation including a slide show and discussion about the windows created by Marc Chagall for the synagogue in the Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center in Jerusalem. These world-renowned works of art reflect Chagall’s visionary artistic interpretation of subjects found in the Hebrew Bible. Viewing and discussing the Chagall Windows provide a lesson and a joyful experience as we blend contemporary art with the Bible. $5 per person. Register and pay by Thursday, March 12.

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FEBRUARY DINNER FORUM

Wednesday, February 18 at 6:30 p.m. Enjoy a presentation of contemporary interest and a deli dinner. $12 per person. Fee includes deli dinner. RSVP online at www.cbisd.org/rsvp, or call 858 535-1111 ext 3800.

MEN’S DISCUSSION GROUP Join us on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. for a lively and enlightening open discussion of current topics. Men's Club membership is not required and there is no charge for this event.

MONTHLY BOARD MEETING All Men’s Club members are invited for a lively discussion of Men’s Club and CBI activities at Board meetings the first Wednesday of each month at 6:30 4 www.cbisd.org

THE CHAGALL WINDOWS: A BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVE

Thursday, April 16 at 1:30 p.m. Steve Gould will talk about his journey into his new “life after life” and about some of the trips and experiences he has had in order to capture the images for his artwork. He will also share some of his beautiful finished pieces. After he retired, Steve discovered Photoshop and the digital photography world, and learned that he could show and sell his artwork. It has effectively become a new career for him. Steve looks for nature’s myriad colors, textures and complex patterns, especially in those moments that are fleeting and never to be repeated. In addition to traditional landscape photography, he draws his inspiration from the “underwaterscape” (he’s an experienced SCUBA diver) and from compositions he finds on our local beaches. Fee: $5 per person. Register and pay by Thursday, April 9.

To join the Men’s Club, call Bob Metz at 619 286-8416.

p.m.. We follow with dinner at a nearby restaurant. Call Bob Metz for information at 858 535-1111, ext. 3800.

YOM HASHOAH CANDLE PACKING Sunday, March 15 from 8:00 a.m. The Men’s Club distributes Yom Hashoah candles to CBI members each year to encourage all of us to remember the Holocaust. Join us as we pack and address 1400 candles for mailing. All volunteer help is welcome. Packing will run until early afternoon in the social hall. FREE REFRESHMENTS. RSVP to Mike Rose 858 535-1111, ext. 3800.

THANKS TO MEN’S CLUB USHERS Thanks to the friendly Men's Club ushers who passed out your prayer books and literature at Friday Shabbat Services this past month: Don Greenberg, Walter Hauer, Steve Laufer, Michael Heinzman, Arthur Levy, Jim Malkus, Bob Metz, Michael Rose, Ken Jacobs, Marty Klitzner, Christopher DiLeo and Richard Rosenberg.

MEN’S CLUB EMBRACE-A-FAMILY GIFT COLLECTIONS A SUCCESS The Men’s club collected hundreds of dollars worth of toys and gift certificates at its December Holiday program. The donations were collected for Jewish Family Service's Embrace-A-Family program which helps families to have a joyous holiday. Thank you to all who donated.

Adult Learners Network Unless otherwise noted, RSVP online at www.cbisd.org/rsvp, visit www.cbisd.org/aln, or contact Program Director Bonnie Graff at bgraff@cbisd. org, or 858 535-1111, ext. 3800.

SYNAGOGUE GEOGRAPHY

Tuesday, February 17 at 7:00 p.m. Rabbi Michael Berk takes you on a fascinating behind-the scenes tour that reveals little-known facts about our campus. See details on page 6.

HOT TOPICS AND JEWISH TEXTS: Downtown Kallah (study) with Rabbi Berk, Every Third Wednesday, February 18 - May at 12:00 p.m. Law Office of Hecht Solberg Robinson Goldberg & Bagley LLP, 600 West Broadway, Suite 800, San Diego Each one-hour session focuses on subjects of contemporary interest. We study from traditional rabbinic texts, mostly the Babylonian Talmud, and apply the teachings of our sages to our lives. No experience studying Talmud is required and participants may join us whenever they can attend. Space is limited and RSVPs are required one week ahead. No fee. CBI members only. Bring your own lunch; beverages provided. Building parking $2 per 15 minutes.

www.cbisd.org/aln

CBI BOOK CLUB

TASTE OF JUDAISM

Thursday, February 19 at 7:00 p.m.

Tuesdays, April 14, 21, 28 from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

New members are always welcome. In February we will discuss Night, by Eli Wiesel, Thursday, March 26: Dancing Arabs, by Sayed Kashua, Thursday, April 23: undecided, Thursday, May 21: Moscow Rules, by Daniel Silva. No fee. Contact Louise Winheld at [email protected], or Nancy Abelon at [email protected].

JEWISH MEDICAL ETHICS with Janine Feldman, M.D., Thursdays, March 5, 19, 26 from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. This class covers fundamental principles of Jewish ethics and values that can be used to bring clarity to controversial issues in contemporary medicine. Fee: $25 for CBI members; $40 for nonmembers. Register and pay online by Thursday, February 19.

92ND STREET Y BROADCAST FEATURING SALMAN RUSHDIE Sunday, March 15 at 4:30 p.m. Join us for this broadcast from New York City with author Salman Rushdie. His ten novels have been critically acclaimed, including Midnight’s Children , Booker of Bookers; The Satanic Verses, The Moor’s Last Sigh and most recently The Enchantress of Florence. $5 for CBI members; $10 for nonmembers. Register and pay online by March 8.

GOD & FREUD

with Amy Hirschberg Lederman and Ray Lederman Saturday, April 18 at 12:00 p.m. Is Jewish observance an obsession or the key to spirituality? Join us for a delicious catered luncheon and our special guest presenters who will offer insights about Jewish observance from both spiritual and psychological perspectives and will help you better understand the needs, longings and drives that underlie our desire to experience Judaism and God.

This is a three-session beginners’ guide to God, Torah and Israel, taught by Rabbi Lenore Bohm. Taste of Judaism is co-sponsored by United Jewish Federation and the Union for Reform Judaism. Nonmembers, Jews and nonJews are welcome. Reservations are required at www.jewishinsandiego.com, or contact Rachel Kitt at 858 737-7149, or [email protected].

INTERFAITH PANEL: With Rabbi Michael Berk, Msgr. Dennis Mikulanis, Rev. Jim Standiford and Imam Taha Hassane Wednesday, April 22 at 7:00 p.m. Jewish, Protestant, Catholic and Muslim clergy will engage in an open and spirited panel discussion on the topic: Abraham and the Journey of Faith. A Q&A session will follow, moderated by Irv Kass. No fee. RSVP online by Wednesday, April 15.

SAVE THE DATE: Eisman Israel Scholar-in-Residence Weekend with Rabbi Donniel Har tman May 8-9, 2009 CBI is honored to present the inaugural Eisman Israel Scholar-in-Residence Weekend featuring Rabbi Donniel Hartman, co-director of the Shalom Hartman Institute in Jerusalem, Israel. Rabbi Hartman is the founder of some of the most extensive education and enrichment programs for educators and rabbis in Israel and North America. He earned a doctorate in Jewish philosophy and Master of Arts degrees in political philosophy and religion. Details will follow about the first in a series of biennial learning weekends led by Israel scholars and artists, all made possible by the generosity of Al and Naomi Ruth Eisman.

Amy Hirschberg Lederman is an award-winning, nationally syndicated columnist, author, Jewish educator and public speaker. Ray Lederman has spent 25 years in academic, clinical and administrative psychiatry. $15 for CBI members; $25 for nonmembers. RSVP and pay online by Monday, April 13.

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Outreach

www.cbisd.org/outreach

Are you new to Judaism, raising Jewish children, or just interested in learning more? CBI welcomes you and has designed these classes to give you an introduction to the warm celebration of Jewish life.

SYNAGOGUE GEOGRAPHY: EXPLORING OUR SACRED SPACE TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17 AT 7:00 P.M. Rabbi Michael Berk takes you on a fascinating behind-the-scenes tour that reveals little-known facts about our campus and takes the mystery out of the ritual items found in the sanctuary. You’ll also have a chance to enjoy refreshments, connect with others and “shmooze” (socialize) with Rabbi Berk. This class is designed for both those exploring Judaism and anyone interested in an intimate look at the design and symbolism found on our beautiful and award-winning CBI campus. No fee but please register for planning purposes by Tuesday, February 10. Register online at www.cbisd.org/rsvp, or contact Program Director Bonnie Graff at [email protected], or 858 535-1111 ext. 3800.

Bouquets for Bonnie! SAVE THE DATE: Friday, April 17, 2009 Join us as we celebrate Program Director

Bonnie Graff’s more than 25 years of service to Congregation Beth Israel. 5:30 p.m. Shabbat Dinner Program 7:30 p.m. Shabbat Service with special guest speaker 9:00 p.m. Elegant Dessert Reception For more information contact Heather Taylor-Williams at 858 535-1111, ext. 3126, or [email protected] Watch our Web site for additional details. www.cbisd.org

PASSOVER STEP BY STEP TUESDAY, MARCH 10 AT 7:00 P.M. After this fun evening of instruction, ideas, music, recipies and hands-on practice lead by Director of Education Emeritus Helene Schlafman, you will be able to comfortably design and lead your own Seder.

Join us at the URJ Pacific Southwest Council Regional Biennial Convention

No fee but please register for planning purposes by Tuesday, March 3. Register online at www.cbisd.org/rsvp or contact Program Director Bonnie Graff at [email protected] or 858 535-1111 ext. 3800.

OUTREACH SHABBAT DINNER AND SERVICE FRIDAY, MARCH 27 Dinner at 6:00 p.m.; Service at 7:30 p.m. This moving Shabbat service will honor our interfaith families, Jews-by-choice and non-Jewish members who embrace Jewish traditions and often play a key role in raising Jewish children. Members of our community will share their personal stories in sermonettes. All are welcome to attend and the preceding dinner offers a great opportunity to get to know others who are new to Judaism and/or expanding their knowledge. Dinner: $25 per person, $9 for children ages 2-12. No fee for individuals enrolled in Basic Judaism. RSVP and pay online by Friday, March 23 at www.cbisd.org/rsvp. For more information contact Program Director Bonnie Graff at [email protected] or call 858 535-1111, ext. 3800. 6 www.cbisd.org

"Come for the weekend or for the day on Saturday. See you there!" -- Judy Fisher, Member of the Regional Biennial Steering Committee. For more information or to register, go to urj.org/psw/resources/biennial/

Religious Educuation and the Survival of Life The Religious School students will be participating in the Environmental Fair this year. What will the next environmental consciousness raising exercise look like? What, simply put, will be necessary to save our planet? Very often theology develops in response to social/political circumstances. When the Temple was destroyed by the Romans and there was no longer a place to offer sacrifices, the Rabbis developed the idea of a God who wants to hear prayers, not smell sacrifices. When we were thrown out of Spain in 1492 and our social world collapsed, our Rabbis added the concept of “tikkun olam,” the repair of the world, to our theological repertoire. Now we need new theological ideas to respond to the environmental crisis. At one time - in order to protect the earth - it was enough to teach that we should

all “tend our garden like Adam.” It may not be enough now. At one time - in order to motivate us to action - it was enough to say that we are “God’s partner in repairing the world.” It may not be enough now. What is required now is “a theology of urgency” that includes a more aggressive vocabulary to confront the global crisis. Our children must see themselves as God’s “armed forces, soldiers in a battle against time.” Our children must “mobilize” and “organize a military-like campaign” to “fight” to save the earth. It is not enough to teach our children to “tend” the beautiful earth, so that they view themselves as friendly gardeners lovingly watering the flowers. We are irresponsible if we do not characterize the global crisis as just that – a crisis - choosing appropriate metaphors, analogies and symbolism to express the urgency which is necessary to survive.

We have some appropriate teachings already. Said Rabbi Levi ben Hiyyata about the connection between a balanced natural order and human survival: “... without earth, there is no rain, and without rain, the earth cannot endure, and without either, humans cannot exist (Genesis Rabbah, 13:3) But we need more. We need a theology that connects individual responsibility, the common fate of all living creatures and urgent action. Where to start? At Temple – with religious education. The inculcation of values and beliefs is the first step and the best hope for our survival. L’shalom, Rabbi David Katz Director of Congregational Learning

The Wonderful, the Versatile Jessica Kretzer!

By Michelle Berkowitz Our religious school students are thrilled when they learn that they can be in Jessica Kretzer’s class in 4th, 7th, 8th and CBI High. Jessica has been teaching in our Religious School Program for three years and brings Judaism to life in a way that engages her students and gives them confidence in their Jewish knowledge. Young or "old," our students always greet Jessica with a warm smile or a hug. In 4th grade, her students learn about Torah and Israel. They become wellversed in the weekly parasha and the cities, politics and people of Israel.

Jewish American History is a core component of the three trimesters which make up 7th grade. “Our students are on the brink of a Bar or Bat Mitzvah. It is important that they know where our people come from so they can decide what role they want to play in our people’s future,”says Jessica.

Jessica is from Texas where her family still belongs to Congregation Beth Israel of Houston. She worked for five years as a madrichah (teacher's aide) there while a middle and high schooler. She earned a Bachelor's degree in deaf education at the University of Texas at Austin, and taught fifth grade religious school at Austin's Congregation Beth Israel. Jessica relocated to San Diego in 2004 and received her Master's degree in Deaf Education from San Diego State University.

In 8th grade, Jessica teaches Comparative Religions. Students examine a wide variety of religions, asking questions, challenging the thought process of religious perspectives and participating in discussions and debates.

When not teaching at Beth Israel, Jessica teaches deaf students with mulitple handicaps and special needs at Madison High School. She married Mark Rubenshtein in May 2008.

This year, Jessica introduced a new elective into our high school program: Images of God. Students explore how modern music, movies and literature depict God and relationships with God. They dissect why we look for images of God and what Judaism has to say about each representation we find in various media: cartoons, movies, radio and books.

We are so lucky to have Jessica on our teaching staff and at all levels of CBI’s Religious School.

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Women of Beth Israel

www.cbisd.org/wbi

HELP RACHEL’S WOMEN’S CENTER SERVE DINNER SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8 AT 5:00 P.M. Rachel’s is a temporary downtown shelter for homeless women. WBI provides meals and companionship and collects items for the facility. A basket for the collection of small toiletries and unused cosmetic samples is available at all WBI events. Please bring what you can, or drop off at CBI reception desk at your convenience. We provide dinner for the very appreciative residents every second Sunday of the month. If you’d like to prepare and donate a portion of the meal and help serve, contact Julianne Markow at 858 344-5088, or [email protected], or Bonnie Graff at 858 5355111, ext. 3800.

WBI USHERS Thank you to Ellen Edwards, Sheila Bliss, Elaine Moser and Betsy Shaubrich for ushering in January.

SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF ART TOUR SUNDAY, MARCH 22 AT 2:00 P.M. Join Women of Beth Israel for Sunday afternoon light refreshments, and art at the San Diego Museum of Art. The highlight of the afternoon will be private, docent-led tours of the exhibition Black Womanhood: Images, Icons, and Ideologies of Africa. This multimedia exhibition explores historic and contemporary representations of the black female body in both African and Western arts. Open to all (women and men); Fee: $20 per person; $10 per SDMA member. After March 16 tickets are available at the door for $25 per person, $15 per SDMA member. Register online by Monday, March 16 at www.cbisd.org/rsvp. For more information or to RSVP contact Program Director Bonnie Graff at [email protected] or call 858 535-1111 ext. 3800 or email Julianne Markow at [email protected], or Kathie McKirdy at [email protected].

Attention all committees, auxiliaries, boards, chavurot, and room parents! Put on your oven mitts and get ready to rumble! Get your best recipes together and compete in the cook-off. There is no limit on the number of entries per group. To Enter: Send in your group's name and names of recipes to be entered. Competition categories: Appetizers, Jewish holidays, Soups and Desserts. Entrants are asked to prepare a small dish to serve five judges and one larger dish to serve 10-15 guests. Please do not mix meat and milk within the same dish or recipe and no pork, shellfish, or imitation products. Judging will be by Master of Ceremonies, Sam the Cooking Guy (Sam Zien), Caron Golden, Eric Whinston and audience participation. Bring your entire group to cheer for your team. Prizes awarded to top competitors. $20 per CBI member; $30 per non-member. ALL CBI members are invited whether submitting a recipe or not. Deadline for entering the recipe competition: February 1. RSVP to attend by Friday, February 20, at www.cbisd.org/ rsvp. Questions? Contact Joanne Gimbel at [email protected], or Program Director Bonnie Graff at [email protected], or 858 535-1111 ext, 3800.

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Early Childhood Education www.cbisd.org/schools/ece.shtml

Stand with Israel www.cbisd.org/israel.shtml

MESSAGE FROM NEW COMMITTEE CHAIR, DR. JONATHAN SIEGEL Contact the preschool office regarding all Early Childhood events and programs at 858 535-1144, ext. 3120 or [email protected]

BILL AND SID RUBIN PRESCHOOL ENROLLMENT SEASON FOR THE 2009-2010 YEAR HAS BEGUN The Bill and Sid Rubin Preschool is open to children two years of age through Junior Kindergarten. It offers the very best in early childhood education, providing a program rich in Jewish culture, tradition and values. Baby and toddler parent-participation programs are also offered. Our early childhood department provides a warm, nurturing experience for the whole family. Call now for an enrollment application and/or to arrange a school tour with Early Childhood Education Director Tammy Vener.

TWO NEW WEEKDAY PROGRAMS FOR TODDLERS AND PARENTS Both classes require pre-registration. Contact the preschool office for details. Songbirds Music with Diana Davidson From 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays through March 18

TOT SHABBAT: FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6 AND MARCH 6 Join us for a family-friendly Shabbat Service at 6:00 p.m. If you'd like to stay for dinner after the Service (6:30-7:15 p.m.), RSVP online or to 858.535.1144, ext. 3120. $12 per adult, $6 per young child (2-12) and $2 per non-eating child (under 2 only). Dinner reservations due the Monday prior.

MY FAMILY & ME: SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8 AND MARCH 1 My Family and Me is a free program, open to the community and designed for families with children ages 6 months to 4 years. My Family and Me features the celebration of Jewish holidays and activities through songs, art and cooking. Come learn about Tu B'Shevat on February 8 and Purim on March 1. 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. in the South Social Hall. No RSVP needed. Bring a friend!

This class is a community of families sharing songs, rhythm games and instrument play together in a fun, safe, Jewish environment. You will be learning music through developmentally appropriate activities that support and respect the unique learning styles of all children. An important part of this class is parent education that will help parents/ caregivers understand and enhance their child's music development.

I'd like to take this opportunity to introduce myself as the incoming chair of the Stand with Israel Committee and to share some news about our committee. The Stand with Israel committee has always upheld and reinforced the solidarity of Congregation Beth Israel with the State of Israel. We are currently re-forming with a new structure, a new plan and renewed energy toward that purpose. I'm excited about bringing together my love of Israel and my long-time association with CBI. I'm a San Diego native who celebrated my Bar Mitzvah at CBI. I lived in Israel on a kibbutz during 10th grade and spent another year at Tel Aviv University. Currently I'm a physician at Kaiser Permanente. My wife, Barbara Lounsbury serves on the CBI board and my three children, Max, Rebecca and Benjamin have grown up in CBI's Religious School and youth groups. Look for future reports from me as the Stand with Israel committee again becomes an integral part of CBI life.

Jonathan Siegel in Jerusalem with wife, Barbara and children Ben and Rebecca.

Shabbat Together with Sara Kupor From 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Fridays through March 20 This class is free and open to the entire community. Come learn and celebrate Shabbat on Friday mornings. This class will include singing, story time, celebration and snack. Meet new friends, bring your play group and enjoy a wonderful morning.

Families enjoyed CBI's Preschool Pajama Chanukah in December.

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Social Action/Tikkun Olam You are not

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2ND SAN DIEGO WALK FOR DARFUR

required to complete the

SUNDAY, MARCH 29 AT 9 A.M.

work, yet

Show your commitment to stopping the genocide in Darfur! Walk with your neighbors, friends and other concerned citizens. Join us at De Anza Cove in Mission Bay. Contributions will support the Sudan Relief and Advocacy Fund of American Jewish World Service. Register online at www.SanDiegoWalkforDarfur.org. To volunteer and/or receive more information, contact Ami Minteer at [email protected] or 619 593-8005.

you are not allowed to desist from it. – Pirkei Avot 2:21 NEXT KNIT AND NOSH GET TOGETHER SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8 AND MARCH 15 AT 9:00 A.M. Meet at Café Beth Israel to make “squares” and to stitch blanket squares together for needy babies at Vista Hill. It’s easy to learn! Kits of yarn, needles and instructions are available at the CBI office. This is a wonderful mitzvah. No experience necessary. To help, or to learn more, contact Program Director Bonnie Graff at 858 535-1111, ext. 3800, or Susan Volsky at 858 259-1667, [email protected].

WRITE A LETTER TO A U.S. SOLDIER, FRIDAYS, FEBRUARY 13 AND MARCH 13 Join us after Shabbat services to write a letter to a U.S. soldier in Iraq or Afghanistan. Paper, pens, crayons will be provided. Help CBI purchase items for care packages (cost $30/ box). Make checks payable to CBI with “SAC/Adopt a US Soldier” in the memo. Mail to CBI, Attn. Bonnie Graff. Information: [email protected].

HOUSEHOLD COLLECTIBLES FOR JFS RUNS MARCH 13 - APRIL 19

MAKE IT HAPPEN IN NEW ORLEANS!

Do a little spring house cleaning and donate household items! Check our Web site at www.cbisd.org/sac for specifics.

Make It Happen, the networking philianthopic project, is now more than halfway towards its goal of raising $10,000 for Communities in Schools, New Orleans. With over $6,000 raised, purchases have included testing materials, mentoring time, school uniforms and many more desperately needed educational tools. You can now go online to cisneworleans.org and make a pledge or buy a tribute in any amount in someone's honor or memory. Remember, many people donating small amounts does make a difference.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Last December 14 we dodged a predicted rain storm and 12 hardy souls from CBI met at a Habitat work site in Carlsbad. Part of the group nailed sheeting on the second story roof of a six unit condo while those who did not like heights installed windows. This was the 16th work party sponsored by CBI's Social Action Committee and chaired by Glenn Farber. We have had 167 participants since our first adventure in July 2004, contributing over 1300 hours toward helping Habitat for Humanity provide housing for needy families. Our next work party is scheduled for the spring. For more information contact Glenn Farber at [email protected].

Contact Bonnie Graff at [email protected], or Barbara Ziering at [email protected].

THE HUNGER PROJECT CBI provides volunteers to prepare and serve breakfast every Sunday from 9:00 11:30 a.m. Contact Vicki Raun at 858 5351111, ext. 3500, or [email protected].

COLLECTING FOR JFS HAND UP YOUTH FOOD PANTRY

Students in CBI's Religious School write and decorate letters that will be sent in care packages to U.S. soldiers serving overseas.

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Let’s celebrate Purim by giving to those who are less fortunate. CBI is continuously collecting non-perishable food items. Please drop donations in the bins located at the front and back entries to CBI. Cash donations are also very much appreciated. Contact Bonnie Graff at 858/535-1111 ext. 3800 or [email protected].

Youth Events

CBI YOUTH HOTLINE: 858 535-1111, EXT. 3100, OR [email protected]

WHAT'S A PIG DOING IN THE CBI YOUTH LOUNGE? By BITY Social Action Chair Penny J. BITY has a new addition to the youth group: a pig. BITY's pig, however, is not real but a recycled water jug in the shape of a pig that is being used as a tzedakah box. The pig's debut came last year at a BITY event on the environment. It is now being used to hold money BITY is raising in support of NFTY's Nothing But Nets campaign. Nothing But Nets is an organization that works to prevent

UPCOMING EVENTS Visit www.cbisd.org/youth for the most current information and pictures. RSVP for events at least 48 hours in advance.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6 Israeli Teen Shabbat Services 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. @ CBI - $5

FEBRUARY 27-MARCH 1 NFTY SoCal Social Justice Kallah (BITY members only)

malaria through the distribution of bed nets (For more information visit: www. nothingbutnets.org). Malaria affects 500 million people worldwide, and the 10 bed nets that BITY's fundraising will pay for, will make a small difference in that number. BITY has raised $71.50 towards this effort, but we want to reach our goal of $100. Come by the Novak Youth Lounge and help us fight malaria!

BITY AND TASTY GET ICY! In January BITY got together with TASTY (Temple Adat Shalom) for a joint ice skating extravaganza event! Over 30 teens from all over San Diego mingled, schmoozed, and skated. They also enjoyed a huge communal Havdalah and an informative social action program about Nothing But Nets. Check out cbisd.org/ youth for videos from this and the J2 Bowling event!”.

FRIDAY, MARCH 6 Teen Shabbat Jam with Kavanah (Temple Solel’s teen band) 6:00 -9:00 p.m. @ CBI - $5

SATURDAY, MARCH 7 BITY LOCK-IN! Spend the night with BITY. 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 a.m. - $25

SATURDAY, MARCH 14 NOAR’s Night O’ Games 6:00 - 10:00 p.m. @ CBI - $10

SUNDAY, MARCH 15 J2's Think, Play and Create at the New Children’s Museum 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Meet @ CBI - $15 www.cbisd.org 11

THREE MINUTES OF YOUR TIME That's how long it will take to complete this survey and help us be more effective in communicating with you. Return this survey to: Congregation Beth Israel, 9001 Towne Center Drive, San Diego, CA 92122, Att: Survey. If you prefer, you may complete the online version at www.cbisd.org/ comsurvey. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us! 1. How much of Tidings do you usually read?  None  Skim  Some  Most  All 2. How many minutes do you typically spend reading an issue of Tidings?  0-15  15-30  30-45  45-60  60+ 3. How long do you typically keep an issue of Tidings?  1-7 days  7-14 days  14-30 days  more than 30 days

4. Which of these do you generally read/view?  Rabbi's message  Worship Schedule  Our Synagogue Family  Social Action  Adult Learners  Board Briefing  Men's Club  Women of Beth Israel  Caring Community  Outreach  DayTimers  Religious School  Early Childhood  Youth Events  Stand with Israel  Recent event photo pages  Contributions 5. Rate your interest in the following. 1 = low, 5 = high ___Photos and short bios of B'nai Mitzvah students ___Member birthdays and anniversaries ___Profiles of unique, distinguished/interesting members ___Profiles of CBI Board members ___Profiles of CBI Staff members ___Stories from CBI History ___Member's personal reflections on Jewish themes ___Written or artistice submissions by CBI children/youth ___Written or artistic submissions by CBI adults 6. What, if anything, would you like to see more of, less of, or changed in Tidings?

7. How often do you use these CBI communications tools to obtain information about CBI? 1 = Never, 5 = Often ___Tidings ___CBI Web Site ___Committee Brochures ___Flyers ___Weekly E-Newsletter ___Early Childhood, Religious School or Youth Newsletters ___Early Chiildhood, Religious School or Youth E-newsletters ___Word of mouth ___Other: 12 www.cbisd.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORS BRIEFING By Judi Schwarz  A sub-committee is reviewing the bylaws of Congregation Beth Israel to recommend any appropriate language changes. The last major review of the bylaws occurred approximately 10 years ago. The board discussed some of the potential bylaws changes identified by the sub-committee. The sub-committee will now consider the board’s input and will present its final recommendations at a future meeting. Any changes to the by-laws that are approved by the board would be subject to approval by the congregation in a vote at the Annual Meeting in May.  In response to a board member’s question, Treasurer and President-elect Ron Simon announced that CBI’s endowment fund was not invested with any institutions affected by the Madoff scandal. Our funds are invested through the Jewish Community Foundation (JCF). The Bank of New York-Mellon acts as trustee for the funds invested by the JCF. JCF employs an independent advisor that assists JCF’s investment committee in selecting investments for the JCF funds. CBI’s investments are approximately 2/3 in stock mutual funds and 1/3 in bond mutual funds. CBI’s finance committee meets regularly to review the investment performance of our endowment funds.  President Amy Corton reported that we are mid-way through the “Light the Way” annual giving campaign. She reminded board members to make their own contributions if they have not done so. It is hoped that additional contributions will be forthcoming from individuals wanting to take their charitable deduction in 2009 instead of 2008.  Emily Jennewein, chair of the search committee, reported that additional applications from candidates for our Assistant/ Associate Rabbi position have been forwarded by the Placement Office of the Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR). A second candidate has been invited for an on site visit and additional interviews in January. Other applicants are progressing through the preliminary interview process.  The CBI Board meets monthly, generally on the third Thursday of each month, starting at 5:00 p.m. Board meetings are usually open to the general membership. We ask that for planning purposes, you call or email Heather Taylor-Williams at 858.536.1111 ext. 3113 if you plan to attend.

Sa n Die go Jew i sh Film Fe st i va l Fe b r ua r y 4 -15, 20 09 858 -362-134 8 • w w w.s d c j c.o r g

CONGREGATION BETH ISRAEL 9001 Towne Centre Drive, San Diego, CA 92122 Phone: 858 535-1111  Schools: 858 535-1144 Fax: 858 535-1130  Web Site: www.cbisd.org

CLERGY Senior Rabbi Michael Berk [email protected]; ext. 3110

Cantor Arlene Bernstein [email protected]; ext. 3116

Cantor Emeritus Sheldon F. Merel

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Remember Your Loved Ones ON THE CBI M E MORIAL WALL

Placing the name of your loved one on our memorial wall provides a sacred and perpetual way for our community to remember those who are dear and allow the beauty of their lives to continue to shine. For information, contact Lianne Gordon at [email protected], or 858 535-1111, ext. 3113.

The Beth Israel Cemetery & Mausoleum Association  Jewish burial space for members and their relatives  Savings on pre-need purchases To ask about our MOUNT OF OLIVES LAWN at El Camino Memorial Park, call Stuart Simmons at 619 871-4160, or [email protected]. To ask about crypts and niches in our HOME OF PEACE CORRIDORS at Cypress View Mausoleum, call 619 264-3168, or Stuart Simmons at 619 871-4160, or [email protected].

President: Amy Corton President Elect/Treasurer: Ronald Simon First Vice President/Secretary: Emily Jennewein Vice President: Sanford Feldman Vice President: Barbara Lounsbury Immediate Past President: Barbara Haworth Honorary Board Consultant: Jerold Goldberg Sherwin Chasen Kate Kassar Jerry Sampson Deborah DeBow Marty Klitzner Molly Schneider Robert Filderman Lee Levy Judi Schwartz Cynthia Fram Barbara Lubin Cynthia Wexler Heidi Gantwerk Cynthia Polger Women of Beth Israel Co Presidents: Lisa Gittleman and Marge Schane Men’s Club President: Bob Metz Cemetery & Mausoleum President and Honorary Life Consultant: Joan Jacobs BITY (Beth Israel Temple Youth) President: Jennifer Hirschorn

STAFF Executive Director Lesley Mills [email protected]

Facilities Coordinator Elaine Guerrero [email protected]; ext. 3106

Program Director Bonnie Graff [email protected]; ext. 3112

Maintenance Director Nick Reilly [email protected]; ext. 3500

Director of Congregational Learning Rabbi David Katz [email protected]; ext. 3125 Director of Early Childhood Tammy Vener [email protected]; ext. 3123 Director of Finance & Human Resources Kim Jaeger [email protected]; ext. 3144 Member Services and Caring Community Coordinator Lianne Gordon [email protected]; ext. 3113

Youth Director Jeremy Gimbel [email protected]; ext. 3136 Tidings Editor & Webmaster Karen Shein Christiansen [email protected] Organist & Choir Director Robert MacLeod Director of Education Emeritus Helene Schlafman [email protected]; ext. 3305 Cemetery/Mausoleum Rep. Executive Director Emeritus Stuart Simmons [email protected]

Tidings Printed by NebCal Printing 858 558-0100 PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER

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Purim Festivities at CBI PURIM CARNIVAL, SUNDAY, MARCH 8 CALL FOR CARNIVAL VOLUNTEERS! CBI's Purim Carnival is a family favorite every year. Many volunteers assure its success (and have a great time too). Be one of them this year! Teen volunteers please call Jeremy Gimbel at 858-535-1111, ext. 3136 to get involved. Adult volunteers please call the School Office at 858 535-1144. Thank you!

RELIGIOUS SCHOOL PURIM, SUNDAY, MARCH 8 School begins at 9:00 a.m. with a most unusual Purim service. You must see it to believe it. (Forgive the perpetrators in advance.) Parents are welcome. All children should come in costume. Students and faculty will also be in costume for the Purim Carnival, immediately following Religious School.

PURIM CARNIVAL BLOOD DRIVE, SUNDAY, MARCH 8 The San Diego Blood Bank will be taking donations on March 8 during the Purim Carnival. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins will be accepted. Sponsored by the Men’s Club. For information and to RSVP, call 858-535-1111, ext. 3800.

11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.  Location: CBI Courtyard and Social Hall  Inflatable Shushan (six different inflatables)  Queen Esther’s Hamantaschen Bakery  Haman’s Carnival Games  Uncle Mordechai’s Mini Carnival Open to children 5 and under and located on the Preschool playground  Vashti’s Beauty Salon with face painting, nails  King Ahasuerus Banquet Hall with pizza, hot dogs, hamburgers, salad, nachos, snow cones, cotton candy Purchase tickets at the Carnival $.50 per food and game ticket $10 per wristband for inflatables (age 5 and under) $15 per wristband for inflatables (ages 6 and up) Mini Carnival is $10 per wristband

Please bring nonperishable food item for the JFS Hand Up Food Pantry.

PURIM EXTRAVAGANZA! MONDAY, MARCH 9 FROM 6:30 - 7:30 P.M. Purim Parade  Megillah Reading  Purim Schpiel  Religious School Presentation Food and drink to follow. Fun for the whole family - be brave and come in costume!

Our 148th Year! 9001 Towne Centre Drive San Diego, CA 92122-1222

Tidings Published Monthly, Vol. 123 No. 6, February 2009

Congregation Beth Israel Voice: 858 535-1111 Fax: 858 535-1130 Schools: 858 535-1144 Email: [email protected] www.cbisd.org

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