May 2009 - Temple Emanu-El

Temple Emanu-El, San Jose, CAMember of the Union for Reform JudaismConnectionsMay 2009 Iyar 5769V. 73, No. 118MayShabbat Service ScheduleFriday Shabbat ServicesMay 1CongregationalPotluck Dinner6:15pmErev Shabbat ServiceTeacher Appreciation7:15pmMay 8Erev Shabbat/Choir Shabbat7:30pmMay 15Tot Shabbat6:00pmErev Shabbat –Outreach Shabbat7:30pmMay 22Erev Shabbat/Rock Shabbat12 th Grade Graduation7:30pmMay 29Kabbalat Shabbat6:30pmSaturday MorningMinyanimAll Minyan services start at9:00am in the BFRMay2, 9, 16, 23 30Celebrate Shavuot(giving of the Torah to Moses and the Jewish People)Erev Shavuot and Confirmation ServiceThursday, May 28 at 7pmTikkun Lail Shavuot (all-night study session)Thursday May 28 at 10:00pmShavuot Morning ServiceFriday, May 29 at 9:00amMazel Tov to the Confirmation Class of 5769Natalie Audelo, bat Oscar and MerylZachary Heerwagen, ben Jim and HilaryMarcus Hoffman, ben Jeff and PamMichael Holt, ben Glenn and JillAlyssa Jepsky, bat Eric and MarthaCarter Johnson, ben Stuart and SarahKevin Krandel, ben Steve and ShariSpencer Marsh, ben Jeff and MissyLaura Mighdoll, bat David and LindaSadie Misle, bat Howard and TamaraAmanda Schmitt , bat Ralph and SaraZachary Sprintz, ben Mike and MillieMatthew Weingarten,ben Gordon and BarbaraMay 9 at 10:30amMatthew Rossbecomes a Bar MitzvahMay 16 at 10:30amKelsey Hurwitzbecomes a Bat MitzvahTemple Emanu-El 1010 University Avenue, San Jose, CA 95126 www.templesanjose.orgAdministrative Office: 408.292.0939 Religious School Office: 408.292.3223 Preschool Office: 408.293.8660

From Rabbi’sDesk2Relating to Shavuotas a Reform JewThe holy day of Shavuot iscelebrated on the 6th ofSivan. This is the time thatJews traditionally celebrateMoses’ receiving of theTorah on Mount Sinai. It isone of the three PilgrimageFestivals (Shalosh Regalim),when our ancestors wouldtravel to Jerusalem withofferings of first fruits inthankfulness for a successful harvest. The other two PilgrimageFestivals are Pesach and Sukkot. Shavuot is known by several names:Chag Ha-katzir (Festival of the Grain Harvest), Chag HaBikurim(Festival of First Fruits); Zeman matan toratenu (the season of thegiving of the Torah) but the word Shavuot actually means "weeks"and it celebrates a "week of weeks" (7 weeks, or 49 days) followingthe week of Pesach. At the conclusion of the second seder, we begincounting the omer, marking the beginning of the wheat harvest. OnShavuot the barley harvest begins.Pesach and Shavuot are interconnected. During Pesach, wereconnect to our liberation from the land of Egypt (Mitzrayim, theplace of narrowness or constriction) to become a people inrelationship with God.According to the Rabbis, the Torah was offered to a variety ofdifferent peoples. But they did not like the conditions. When Godoffered the Torah to the Israelites, they said "na'aseh v'nishma" (wewill do and we will hear). In other words, the action precedes theunderstanding. Just as on Pesach, we should consider that we wereliberated from Egyptian bondage, so too on Shavuot, we should allconsider that we stood together at Sinai and received the Torah as aguide for our lives.Traditional Jews believe that the Torah was actually handed toMoses at Mt. Sinai. As Reform Jews, we take a different approach.We do not take the story literally, but more metaphorically. Torahwas written by our ancestors over the course of many periods oftime. It was codified and organized, and handed down fromgeneration to generation, both as written and oral tradition. But thatdifference in interpretation in no way decreases the significance ofthe holiday. What Shavuot does for us is provide anotheropportunity for connection ... to the Temple in ancient days, ourhistory, our traditions, our own congregation, and to our ownidentity as Jews.All three pilgrimage festivals are tied to our agrarian roots. Byobserving them here (or wherever we are), it connects us both to ourpast, to nature and the seasons of the year, and to the Land of Israel.What is also remarkable is that each of these festivals also provides atime during the year for self-examination. On Sukkot, as wecelebrate our first fruits, we consider our basic needs in life, thosethings that we so often take for granted. Sukkot is especiallypowerful after we have gone through a process of Teshuvah, of takingresponsibility for our actions and starting with a clean slate. AtPesach, we have an opportunity to look at the Chamatz, "leavening"in our lives, checking on what is "puffing us up," how we areenslaved and what we might need to do to free ourselves. OnShavuot, as individuals we examine our covenantal relationship toJudaism, because we are Am Brit, a people of the covenant.In the Reform movement, Shavuot is traditionally the time whenyoung adults (in most cases 10th graders) affirm their connection tothe Jewish tradition. At Temple Emanu-El, the Erev Shavuot andConfirmation Service is the culmination of a year of study, duringwhich time our students examine what it means to be a Reform Jew;what is God and how we cope with death. This year we havethirteen outstanding young people who have spent the year togetherand will be sharing their views on these topics. Our goal is to alsoconfirm our Jewish faith, by being present at our ErevShavuot/Confirmation service, we too are afforded an opportunity tocontemplate what we believe.On Shavuot, we hear two scriptural readings. One is from the Bookof Ruth (because the story of Ruth takes place during the barleyharvest, and because the rabbis, felt that Ruth's acceptance ofJudaism paralleled the Israelites’ acceptance of Torah). The other isthe Ten Commandments from our Torah.I hope you will be with us on Thursday, May 28 at 7:00pm toexperience this wonderful opportunity to reflect on your belief andto celebrate with our Confirmands and their families.As on all the pilgrimage festivals, there is an additional Yizkor(memorial) portion added to the Shavuot morning service. TheYizkor service is not just for those who have lost someone dear inthe past year. It is for anyone and everyone because the connectionto those who have gone before us is such a strong part of our Jewishtradition. The Shavuot morning service will be on Friday, May 29, at9:00am in the Chapel.Shavuot is another example of how the Jewish calendar offers usopportunities throughout the year to reflect on our lives and to be apart of our extended family, our community. May this be awonderful Shavuot for all of us.L’Shalom,Rabbi Dana L. Magatrabbimagat@templesajose.org

JewishLiteracy3This month is the Festival of Shavout, the Spring Harvest Festivalthat celebrates the handing down of the Torah, the scroll of JewishLaw, on Mt. Sinai. The way we celebrate this holiday in oursynagogue is similar to the way it is being celebrated in Israel andthroughout the world; it’s a parallel experience. This globalcelebration is being held in synagogues everywhere, whether in theGreat Synagogue in Jerusalem, Altashul in Amsterdam or LincolnSquare in Manhattan. The concept of Shavout is an ancient traditionthat carries over to our heritage today. The concept of celebratingone’s heritage and anniversary dates of special occasions is ancientand trans-cultural. When we honor our heritage we demonstrate thevalue of traditions. This builds a strong foundation for the future.By your participation in this year’s festivities you demonstrate yourpride in being part of the Jewish people’s rich historical landscapeand heritage.The flowers used to decorate synagogues are a symbol of spring,rebirth and hope as well as a reminder of the refreshing aroma ofthe earth and creation. We are awed by the significance of whenGod gave each and every Jew the gift of the Torah, which has been alifeline to the nation through the generations. The teachings and thewisdom of the Torah are considered a gift to the Nation of Israeland the world, vital for spiritual existence and survival.Millions were present during the historical event whereby we are toldthat all the Jews and the souls of those individuals who would beborn in the future were present as well. It was a multi-media show, soto speak, and probably in today’s terms, comparable to the openingnight of Spider-Man, Harry Potter, The Mummy Returns, Planet of theApes, Star Wars Episode I, and the excitement that all theseblockbusters provided for the masses. On opening night, Spider-Manwas hailed by the press as the year’s biggest money-maker andsuccess by shattering just about every opening night box officerecord. In modern days, this movie has been the greatest productionever witnessed with the largest viewership in history in a single night.If you compare this event to the dramatic event of when the peopleheard the voice of God and there was thunder and lightning andsupernatural and unprecedented occurrences, over 3,000 years ago,this was an even bigger and more comparable and impressive eventin history because there were many more individuals witness to it.The script and the production of the event on Mt. Sinai has beencontinuously re-enacted for over 3,000 years every Shavuot. Whilemovies may lose their potency and power over the courseof a few months or years, the event of the giving of the Torah andGod’s communication to man and to His people is still consideredthe #1 best seller. There is no other historical event that has evertopped it. It is of utmost eternal significance for us as a peopleand individually.The Torah is our nation’s treasure. We store it carefully in our arks.So many people in this country treasure antique objects, objects ofcertain value that are determined through the following criteria:completeness, endurance, increased value, detail of the handiworkand enduring beauty. In comparison with the most treasured,valuable antiques in the world, the Torah’s values are timeless andeternal. The beauty of words is one of the ages’ most valuable andpractical antiques, so to speak. The Torah, as we said, was given tous over 3,000 years ago, which gives it the aura of being anincredible antique artifact that has been preserved and respectedthrough the ages.Another illustration that helps us to see the timelessness of theTorah is a comparison to the Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter, abeloved children’s classic book that many have read. It has had arecord 250 printings in 35 different languages. While that is certainlysomething to be amazed at, think about this--the Torah has beenthrough perhaps hundreds of thousands of reprints--every time ithas been rewritten on a scroll though the centuries. It has beenread and cherished all over the world for hundreds of generations.The Torah has been translated into countless languages all overthe world.Each year, Jews celebrate the anniversary of this historicallysignificant event--the giving of the Torah. Some of the ways inwhich we re-enact and role-play is through a dramatic re-enactment--using props, scenery, costumes, liturgy and a script. These are theelements of a production. So if we break down the components, theprops are the food that we eat, the dairy products, the candles thatwe light, and the books that we hold in our hands and read. Thecostumes are the yom tov clothing that we dress in and the sceneryis how we decorate our synagogues and homes with flowers andgreenery, and how we try to put our environment in spic and spanshape. The liturgy is the special songs we sing and prayers to theAlmighty that works to create a certain ambiance and tells a storylike a musical play. During the dramatic presentation there is adialogue and exchange of ideas between us and our prayers to God.Some of it is like improvisational theater where people express theirviewpoints off the cuff.All of these pieces help us to spiritually step into the mindset andrecreate the drama. Our tradition encourages us to pull an all-nighterof learning to commemorate and immerse our minds in thishistorically significant event. This helps to intensify our knowledgeand review our history spanning more than 3,000 years.In Israel there is a very powerful and moving tradition of Jewsmigrating en masse to the Western Wall as the sun rises for theShacharit (morning) prayers. The ground is packed and the sound ofthe multitude of prayers in unison can touch the depth of one’s soul.Here too in our close-knit and loving community, we are creatingour own special feeling of unity and purpose through ourparticipation and observance of this sacred time.CHILDREN’S SECTION – There is a portion of the servicewhen the Ten Commandments were read from the Torah fromthe book of Sh’moth and the children gather around the bimahcarrying baskets of fruit and adorned with flowers. This is a customfor the festival of Shavuot. A blessing is given to the children.History reflects not only where we have been but also where weas a nation, state and country are going. Our children are blessedto have the opportunity to fully appreciate the rich history andculture Judaism offers.Our children are beautiful and special. We hope through attendancein synagogue with your friends and family, you will have positive,meaningful, fun times and love being Jewish. Hopefully days liketoday will be cherished Jewish memories etched in your hearts foryour entire lives.Children serve as a comforting reminder that the love andknowledge of Judaism is strong. You are showing how proud youare to live in a country so full of choices and creativity that allowsyou to learn and live and develop your Jewish identity.

ShavuotRitual4Customs of ShavuotLighting Shavuot CandlesOn Shavuot, Jews light candles and recite the following blessings:Barukh Ata Adonai, Eloheynu Melekh Ha-OlamAsher Kid-shanu B'Mitz-votav, V'tzi-vanuL'had-lik Neyr Shel Yom TovBlessed are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe, who hastaught us the way of holiness through the commandments, and hascommanded us to kindle the Festival light.Barukh Ata Adonai, Eloheynu Melekh Ha-OlamSheh-heh-kheh-yanu, V'kiy-manu, V'higi-anu L'zman H'zehBlessed are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe, who has keptus in life, sustained us, and enabled us to reach this season.Decorating with Greenery and FlowersThere is a custom to decorate homes and synagogues with greenery,as Shavuot is a harvest holiday. In the time of the Temple, the firstfruits were brought on Shavuot.We also decorate with flowers, as Shavuot commemorates the givingof the Torah on Mount Sinai. It is said that although Mount Sinai islocated in the desert, the desert bloomed with flowers when theTorah was given to the Jewish People.Dairy FoodIt is customary to eat dairy food on Shavuot. The most popularreason given is that we were given the laws of kashrut (kosherdietary laws) when we were given the Torah. While in Sinai, the Jewsdid not have the utensils needed to prepare kosher meat, so they ateonly dairy.Others say that eating dairy shows restraint. When the Jewish peopleaccepted the Torah and committed themselves to follow it, theycommitted themselves to leading lives with restraints.Tikun Lail Shavuot"Tikun Lail Shavuot" is the custom of staying up all night long onShavuot to study Torah. Studying Torah the entire night is one wayto celebrate the anniversary of its giving.Some say we study all night to compensate for the behavior of theJewish people at Mount Sinai. They slept so soundly that they had tobe awakened by God with thunder and lightning at daybreak toprepare to receive the Torah.Shavuot ServicesIt is customary for everyone, even children and infants, to attendsynagogue on Shavuot to hear the reading of the TenCommandments from the Torah. Thus, we relive the historic eventwhen the Jews received the Torah and committed themselves toobserve it. Yizkor is recited after the Torah reading on Shavuot.The Book of RuthAshkenazi Jews read the Book of Ruth during the morning serviceson Shavuot. Some say this book is read because the story takes placeduring the harvest season. Another reason given is that Ruth'sconversion is similar to the Jewish people's acceptance of the Torah.Ruth was King David's ancestor, and it is believed that King Davidwas born and died on Shavuot.The Ritual Committee, under the guidance of our amazing HighHoly Days director, Dawn Chaffin, has been working diligently tocreate a High Holy Days honors system that recognizes thecommitment of our Temple leadership and exceptional volunteers -those who help to make the Temple what it is.Therefore,we will havea set offixed honorsdesigned torecognizecongregantswho havecontributedtheir time,effort andotherresources tothebettermentof ourTemplecommunity.Thesehonors maybe readingparts, Torah- relatedhonors orArkopening. Ofcourse, ashas becomeour minhag(custom),we will continue to choose B’nai Mitzvah, confirmation students ofthe past year, as well as Minyan leaders to chant Torah and Haftarah.In addition, we will have a host of honors available for committeechairs, auxiliary Presidents, and Board of Trustees members to assignto congregants who have contributed during the past year.The High Holy Days honors process is truly a partnership with theRitual Committee, clergy and our temple leadership. We appreciatethe hard work of our congregants who give of their time andresources throughout the year and especially we would like torecognize everyone who makes the High Holy Days at TempleEmanu-El such a special experience.If you are interested in working to implement this honors process,we are looking for a few more volunteers. Please contact MarkCahn at cahnscience@earthlink.net. This process will allow us todo our best to ensure that those individuals who have devotedtheir energy and commitment to our Temple community have therecognition during the High Holy Days that they deserve.

Will You Join Us?TempleIn the April issue of Connections you’ll find a letter from Bob Herschannouncing the financial membership commitment program for2009-2010. Despite the fact that many costs such as insurance,utilities, and health care are beyond our control and continue toincrease, the Board of Trustees has decided to keep next year’smembership commitment levels the same. Why? Because the Boardrecognizes that economic conditions are placing a strain on manyfamilies, and we are concerned.Still, we need to invest in Temple Emanu-El’s future. No one knowswhat next year will bring, but hopefully the economy will turnaround later in 2009 or early 2010, enabling all congregants to makea full financial commitment to our congregation. In the meantime,we are voluntarily increasing our financial commitments by 5% ormore for one year to help ensure the continued vibrancy of ourcongregation. We hope that those of you who are able to do so willjoin us.Doris and Rick DavisShari and Steve KrandelLynn Offenhartz and Andrew WeinbergeScrip in theMerry, Merry Month of MayHappeningsTeacher Appreciation ShabbatFriday, May 1 at 7:15pmPlease join us to acknowledge ourwonderful religious school,preschool and adult educationteachers at Teacher AppreciationShabbat. Temple Emanu-El is luckyto have a fantastic group ofdedicated, hardworking teachers –they deserve to know how muchwe appreciate them. We will also behonoring those who have given 10years or more of service, includingPaula Marsh, Rabbi Dana Magat,Laura Danoff-Robinson and JoelleWolf. The teachers will be leadingservices. Please come and show your support!NeighborhoodHavdallahSaturday, June 6Last year, more than ahundred Temple membersjoined together in homesthroughout the Valley tomake new friends andshare food, wine, songsand prayers.Save the Date!5If eScrip dollars should come our way,Then Temple cheers, "Hooray, hooray!"The eScrip nationwide program ... $200 million and growing,40,000 organizations and growing. Thank you to all oursupporters of this dynamic program! You are helping us reach ourfundraising goals by shopping and eating at eScrip merchants.The eScrip Online Mall program ... Now better than ever! eScripOnline Mall has amazing stores and exclusive offers, just a clickaway on the home page.The eScrip Dining program ... Just use your registeredcredit/debit card when dining. Some of our participating localrestaurants are Black Angus Steakhouse, Time Deli & Catering,Tacos Al Pastor, Antonella's Ristorante, and Baja Fresh.If you are not already a loyal supporter of Temple's eScripprogram, register at www.escrip.com. Temple's ID# is136985180. If you call me I'll do the registering and have yousigned up in minutes. eScrip merchants, some of whom areMacy's, Safeway, Lunardi's, Cosentino's, PW, Le Boulanger, andRound Table Pizza, donate a percentage of your purchases toTemple. Run right out to shop and eat!The MembershipCommittee will besponsoring this eventagain. Look for yourinvitation in the mailcloser to the date. If youare interested in hosting,please contact KimJackman atkbjsanjose@yahoo.comor Sharon Genkin atshosh4511@comcast.net.LAW OFFICE OF DERRYL H. MOLINAEstate planning – Elder Law – General PracticeSE HABLA ESPANOL1142 S. Winchester Blvd., Suite BSan Jose, CA 95128408.244.4992Lorie Kaplan, eScrip Coordinator/Maven408.267.4563Derryl H. MolinaAttorney at Lawattderryl@comcast.net

SisterhoodHappenings6So, you’re Jewish? Do a mitzvah! What is a mitzvah? We all arefamiliar with the word mitzvah and how important it is to Judaism.But lately, we, as members of Temple Emanu-El’s Sisterhood, havebeen thinking about how Sisterhood women can take a moreconsistent role in performing mitzvot. Opportunities for doingmitzvot appear all around us all the time, within our own families,community, country and even the world.A mitzvah is one of the Torah’s 613 Divine Commandments; agood deed or religious precept. The word mitzvah stems from theroot tzavta, attachment, the mitzvah creating a bond between G-dwho commands and man who performs it. Our Sisterhood has beenin touch with a wonderful Jewish organization, “Shalom Bayit”(Ending Domestic Violence in Jewish Homes). They have broadsupport around the Bay Area from many Jewish organizations andsynagogues. At first, our reaction was similar to many who said, “Butthat issue is not a problem here in the Jewish Community!” ShalomBayit’s research and experience since 1992 say otherwise: almost20% of Jewish women may experience emotional or physicalviolence in their relationships.Sisterhood recently co-sponsored a workshop for teens and parentsat Emanu-El and donated money to the organization. Rabbi Magathas recently joined Shalom Bayit’s Rabbinic Advisory Council.Shalom Bayit’s Rachel Marder is working with our Sisterhood VP ofeducation, planning a mother-daughter series of meetings andworkshops on “What makes a strong Jewish woman?” We lookforward to working with them and supporting this worthyorganization in as many ways as we can.If you want to know more, visit www.shalom-bayit.org or call510.451.8874. There are brochures on the Shalom Table.Other mitzvot by Temple Emanu-El Sisterhood:Every year Sisterhood donates to the Jewish Blind Institute, WorldUnion and “YES” fund with Women of Reform Judaism, and ofcourse all temple programs. We always help with MitzvahDay. This Mitzvah Day we held bake sale and the proceeds went toMazon. Mitzvah opportunities galore exist! Let’s take part!Calendar events:Sisterhood meeting May 14 6:00pm in the cottageRosh Chodesh May 27 at the home of Lorie and Shari KaplanSave the date:June 28 - All Sisterhood Day at Emanu-ElDo you have any questions or suggestions for programs? Emailsisterhood@templesanjose.org.Rosh ChodeshWednesday, May 277:00pmThis month we celebrateand discuss Sivan andShavuot, and focus on ourancestor, Ruth.We always have awonderful evening. Noshesare included. In a small,friendly group, we meet atthe home of Lorie & ShariKaplan. This holiday istruly a sacred time justfor women.Please RSVP by Sunday,May 24 to Lorie & Shari,408.267.4563.Rosh Chodesh, festival of the New Moon, is an ancient tradition forwomen going back to biblical times. We mark this holiday with ritual,music, meditation and prayer. Each time we meet there is adiscussion about the Hebrew month. Also, we reinforce our Jewishidentity and deepen our spirituality.FOR YOUR SPECIAL SIMCHASisterhood’s Catering Menu for Oneg ShabbatAssorted cookie trays (24 – 36 pieces) $30Brownies (24 - 36 pcs) $30Cake trays (24-36 pieces) $30Cupcake cake (24 cupcakes decoratedlike a cake – Mazel Tov) $36Fancy cookie trays (24 – 36 pieces) $36Mandelbroight/rugeluch/etc $36Dried fruit and nut tray $36Fresh Vegetable trays $36Cheese and cracker trays $36Hummus and Pita trays $36Fresh Fruit trays $36Tortilla Chips and Salsa $30Layered Bean Dip with Tortilla Chips $36M&M or Jelly Belly bowls (3 bowls) $10Includes plating, set-up, serving platters, decaf coffee, tea, punchbowl filled with cold drink, coffee cups, spoons and table cloths.Does not include:Plates, utensils, paper and plastic ware, tablecloths (except on Buffet,beverage, paper cups, centerpieces, etc.) If you would like to takehome left-overs, please bring containers.We do a professional job, and our staff donates their time, earningdonor credit. Therefore, all profits from your event help fund themany projects of the Sisterhood that support our Templecommunity. References available on request.Please contact Anita for information: anitajmed@yahoo.com.

Sisterhood Cont.Brotherhood7All Sisterhood Day-Northern California Sisterhood DivisionSunday, June 28Temple Emanu-El Sisterhood has been chosen to hostess AllSisterhood Day! Women of Reform Judaism-Pacific District,Northern California will hold this wonderful event at oursynagogue.The theme is “Drawing from the Well…Nourishing OurSisterhoods”. District leaders will bring their expertise to us. Thisall-day event is filled withinteractive presentations andworkshops.Topics include: Jewish womenin history, Torah study,programming for fun,leadership and strategicplanning. Music, sharing,education and, of course,great food are included!We are honored to hostess thisgreat event!To RSVP or for moreinformation, contact RitaLoren atsisterhood@templesanjose.orgThe Big Splash:Opening Celebration for the Silicon Valley MikvahSunday, June 72:00pm - 5:00pmI love the spring. The hills are green and the blossoms are inbloom. The days are long and the nights are warming. Spring is thetime to plant our seeds for the summer and fall harvest. It is the timeto connect with that which sustains us. It is a time for our hands tosmell like dirt. Mine always do.Brotherhood ispreparing for nextyear’s harvest byupdating its bylawsand electing newofficers. We arerenewing the fabricthat sustains us. Weare also taking a lookat which of our cropsthrived and whichneed a little TLC. Thisyear our programs andTemple participationthrived while ourfundraising could haveused a little more compost. Before we break for the summer we willprepare by spending a little time planning next year’s garden.I’m predicting that May will be a productive month in theBrotherhood garden. We will be hosting another fabulous DiasporaDinner, beating the men of Shir Hadash at the annual BrotherhoodChallenge and serving drinks at Nite at the Races.I encourage the gentlemen of Temple Emanu-El to join theBrothers at any of our many activities. Help us grow a betterBrotherhood and Temple Emanu-El. Feel free to contact meanytime at robertlouislevy@yahoo.com.Bob Levy, Brotherhood Presidentbrotherhood@templesanjose.orgIn the meantime,Mikvah appointmentsmay be made for avariety of occasions(Bar/Bat Mitzvah,wedding, recoveryfrom illness, lifetransition, etc.).Call the Mikvah line to set an appointment or for moreinformation: 408.357.7444.

Nite atthe Races8Please join us in the Winner’s Circle of Friends by becoming asponsor of Temple Emanu-El’s ‘Nite at the Races.’ Becominga sponsor is a wonderful way to honor your friends and familyand help us build an even better community. In appreciationof your support to the Temple Emanu-El community, we arepleased to offer a number of benefits.Thoroughbred Circle$1,000• 10 complimentary tickets to ‘Nite at the Races’• A reserved table in Millionaire’s Row• 1 complimentary soft drink per ticket• 1 complimentary raffle entry per ticket• $100 in additional funny money to share• Recognition of your contribution as member of the ThoroughbredCircle at the eventFilly Circle$750• 8 complimentary tickets to ‘Nite at the Races’• 1 complimentary soft drink per ticket• 1 complimentary raffle entry per ticket• $75 in additional funny money• Recognition of your contribution as member of the Filly Circle atthe eventOwners Circle$500• 6 complimentary tickets to ‘Nite at the Races’• 1 complimentary soft drink per ticket• $50 in additional funny money• Recognition of your contribution as member of the Owners Circleat the eventJockeys Circle$250• 4 complimentary tickets to ‘Nite at the Races’• 1 complimentary soft drink per ticket• $25 in additional funny money• Recognition of your contribution as member of theJockey Circle at the eventTrainers Circle$100• 2 complimentary tickets to ‘Nite at the Races’• 1 complimentary soft drink per ticket• $18 in additional funny money• Recognition of your contribution as member of theTrainers Circle at the eventGeneral$50• 1 ticket to ‘Nite at the Races’• 1 complimentary soft drink ticket• $10 in funny moneyTemple Emanu-El member$36• 1 ticket to ‘Nite at the Races’• 1 complimentary soft drink ticket• $10 in funny moneySaturday, May 27:00pm – 11:00pmHERE ARE THE DETAILS!!!When you arrive at the temple you’ll be presented with an OfficialRace Program that contains the names and numbers of horse entriesfor the races to run on film. Simple instructions in the manner of a‘Nite at the Races’, including the purchasing of tickets and thedistribution of scrip money, will be given in detail. Six exciting raceswill be played during the evening. Daily Doubles, Quinellas, Exactasand other special games will be included to round out a fullprogram. Every device is employed to simulate your actual presenceat the track…betting windows, posting odds, computing payoffs,parades to the post, opening of the gates to start the races, closeviews of photo finishes, posting the final results on a tote-board andfinally the actual payoff. Use your scrip to buy raffle tickets for prizepackages put together especially for you!To RSVP contact us at 408.292.0939 or events@templesanjose.org.Name________________________________________________Cell Phone____________________________________________Email___________________________________________________ Number attending___ Check is enclosedCredit Card Visa/MC/AmEx_____________________________Exp. Date________________ Security Code___________________I will cover the 3% credit card usage fee (optional)__I need childcare (ages 4-11) for __child/ren$10 per child, maximum $25 per family

Support OurAdvertisers93AMB DESIGNSBALLOON AND EVENT DÉCORMake Your Event GrandiloquentAny SpecialMitzvahs Occasions WeddingsLet us transform the venue for your special occasion into alarger than life experience. We work with you to create theperfect theme - as your designer, decorator, and balloonartists we take your challenges and make it your success!SculpturesCustom CenterpiecesClassic Balloon DécorSpecial EffectsRelax and let us make you feel like a guest at your own event!www.ambdesigns.comCall your Event Designer, Amy Blach, CBA408.942.0852Introducing the JCCSocial Membership$300 per year for a family membership or $200 foran individual membershipDiscounts on programs and classes, includingcamps and swim lessonsDiscount passes to the Fitness and AquaticsCentersFree use of the Aquatics Center on Sundays$200 of your Family fee, $100 of your Individualfee, is tax-deductibleAddison-PenzakSilicon ValleyLevy Family Campus14855 Oka Road, Los Gatos, CA 95032408.356.4973 www.svjcc.org membership@svccc.orgHome of PeaceCemetery & MausoleumMonterey Hwy & Curtner AveCall for an appointmentto discuss pre-needarrangements, callBob BasuinoAdministrator408.439.1758Founded in 1853Owned and Operatedby Temple Emanu-ElSouth Bay Area’s onlyJewish-owned Cemetery,Mausoleum and Columbarium

More TempleHappenings10Meeka's Senior RecitalAll are invited!Shirat Naomi – T’filat Ha’LevMusical Tribute to NaomiShemer, mother ofContemporary Israeli Poetryand Prayer“The prayer of a communityis always heard”Maimonides, ‘Laws of Prayer,’ 8:1Monday, May 1112:15pm - 1:15pmThe Academy for Jewish ReligionYitzhak Rabin Hillel Center for Jewish Life at UCLA574 Hilgard Avenue, Los Angeles - 310.824.1586 www.ajrca.orgModern Israel: People & CultureNew Adult Education Classtaught by Rabbi MagatDates: Sundays, April 26, May3, 10, 1711:30am – 12:30pmFree for temple members; $36donation for non-members.Everyone participating in theIsrael trip will want to attend!Also open to everyone whowants to learn more about thepeople of modern-day Israel.RSVP toadmin@templesanjose.org orcall the Temple Administrativeoffice at 408.292.0939.Save the Date: Sunday, May 3Silicon Valley Celebrates Israel - Yom Ha’Atzmaut12:30pm – 4:00pm - Free admissionLevy Family Campus in Los GatosEarly entrance forpreschoolers & kindergartnersSpend the day in ‘Israel’!Culture * Food * Tourism *Music *History * Dance *Innovation * Arts *Technology * Shopping*Contests * LiveEntertainment * FolkDancing * Activities for allagesShofar ClassWe have all marveled at Mark Cahn’s shofar blowing abilities at HighHoly Day services and wondered “How does he do that so well?”He’s sharing his secrets along with all the ‘secret’ ancient history ofthe shofarot (plural for shofar) at the new four part Shofar class.Sundays from 10:30am – 11:30am in the Temple HouseJune 7 - Introduction to minhag (custom), history, etc.July 12 - TechniqueAugust 9 - PracticeA light breakfast will be served.Thursday, September 17 from 7:00pm – 8:00pm in the SanctuaryLast class - RehearsalRSVP by June 5 toshofar@templesanjose.orgAges: Post B’nai Mitzvah-100(15 participants max)Bring own shofarand ear plugs!Tekiah!“It would be mypleasure to beyour Realtor!”Mary CohenSeniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES)Quality Service Certified (QSC)408.981.2955 cellIn appreciation of your business andreferrals, a donation will be made toTemple Emanu-El at close of escrow.For more information visitwww.jvalley.org.

CommunityEvents11Jewish Family Services of Silicon ValleyProvides Caring for the Caregivers GroupsA Support Group for Spouses and Adult ChildrenCaring For Chronically Ill/Disabled Loved OnesA place for supporting, empathizing and providing invaluableinformation in an atmosphere of companionship and care.Held onsite atJFS SV on the 1 stand 3 rd Tuesdaysof the month,2:30pm to4:00pm, and atChai House onthe 2 nd and 4 thTuesdays of themonth, 6:30pmto 8:00pm.Fee: $10.00 persession; slidingscale availableFacilitators:Rebecca Resheff,MSW, MA Psyc.,and Avital Agam,BSWFor more information and registration please call Avital Agam,408.357.7450.Mah Johng Tournament returns to the VillagesFriday, June 12 at 10:00amat the Villages Clubhouse$25.00 - $30.00Includes lunch catered by Villages ClubhouseMake your reservations now by calling:For Tournament - Bernice Vitcov 408.274.0697For other games - Janet Truman 408.238.3803Tell your friends! Support Hadassah and have fun, too!Sponsored by Hadassah.Donate your car, boat or motor home toJewish Family Service and help provide services forseniors, children and families in Silicon Valley.To Donate Call:(877)JFS-4CAR (toll free)537.4227‣ Free Pick-Up‣ Tax receipt given‣ No smog requiredFoothill Century: The Only Kosher Ride in the West!Sunday May 17Registration is now open for the Annual Foothill Century, Sunday,May 17. The Foothill Century offers beautiful scenery and amemorable, healthy day for everyone! This year's ride features ourrenowned kosher food at all rest stops and improved road markings.Choose from our 100K, 50K and 10K Family Fun routes.Visit http://www.sphds.org/foothillcentury/ to register.Join 750-plus cyclingfriends for an unforgettablecentury!Rabbi Joseph Gitinis turning 103 years old on May 8!Cards and greetings on this auspiciousoccasion may be sent to him at1550 Sutter Street, Apt 235San Francisco, CA 94109-5377Happy Birthday Rabbi Joe!Sponsored by SouthPeninsula Hebrew DaySchool.For more info, pleasecontact: Lisa SobelDevelopment AssistantSouth Peninsula HebrewDay Schoolfoothill@sphds.org

MayCalendar12Friday May 16:15pm Congregational Potluck Dinner7:15pm Erev Shabbat Family Service, 5 th grade participationTeacher Appreciation ShabbatNFTY(senior youth group) Mitzvah Torah CorpSaturday May 29:00am Shabbat Minyan, Dalet Class Leading7:00pm Nite at the Races FundraiserSunday May 39:00am Hebrew, Brotherhood Meeting10:15am Jewish Studies12:00pm Confirmation Rehearsal and Photos12:30am Silicon Valley Celebrates IsraelTuesday May 54:00pm Confirmation Rehearsal and Photos5:30pm Executive Committee Meeting7:00pm Board of Trustees MeetingWednesday May 64:00pm Hebrew School6:15pm TJS7:30pm Beit Midrash, Choir RehearsalThursday May 77:00pm Rock Shabbat RehearsalFriday May 87:30pm Erev Shabbat Service, Choir ShabbatSaturday May 99:00am Shabbat Morning Minyan10:30am Matthew Ross becomes a Bar Mitzvah6:00pm End of the Year Preschool PicnicSunday May 109:00am Hebrew10:15am Judaic StudiesTuesday May 125:00pm Confirmation RehearsalWednesday May 1312:00pm Lunch n’ Learn –Ziva Abrams(Last Day of Wednesday Classes)4:00pm Hebrew School6:00pm Kadima – Grades 4 through 6 Youth Group6:15pm TJSThursday May 146:00am Sisterhood Dinner and Meeting7:30pm Rock Shabbat RehearsalFriday May 156:00pm Tot Shabbat, Potluck Dinner7:30pm Erev Shabbat ServiceOutreach ShabbatSaturday May 169:00am Shabbat Morning MinyanKelesy Hurwitz becomes a Bat Mitzvah (offsite)12:00pm EESY Swim Party (offsite)6:00pm Diaspora DinnerSunday May 17Last day of Religious School10:15am Judaic Studies (no Hebrew Classes)Pool Party at the SVJCC (all are welcome)Last Day of Sunday ClassesTuesday May 197:30pm Introduction to JudaismWednesday May 205:00pm Final Confirmation RehearsalThursday May 217:00pm Religious School Committee Meeting7:30pm Rock Shabbat RehearsalFriday May 226:30pm Erev Shabbat Service7:30pm Rock ShabbatSaturday May 236:00pm Dinner and Consecration of Confirmation ClassMonday May 25Offices Closed for Memorial DayTuesday May 267:00pm Annual Meeting and ReceptionWednesday May 2712:00pm Lunch ‘n Learn – Torah Study6:00pm Rosh Chodesh (offsite)Thursday May 287:00pm Erev Shavuot and Confirmation ServiceFriday May 29Preschool and Temple Offices Closed9:00am Shavuot Yizkor Service6:30pm Kabbalat Shabbat Service, 12 th grade graduationSaturday May 309:00am Shabbat Morning MinyanShabbat in Nature CampoutShabbat Candle Lighting TimesSave the Dates!June 6 – Havdallah in the NeighborhoodFriday, May 1, 2009Shabbat, May 2, 2009Friday, May 8, 2009Shabbat, May 9, 2009Friday, May 15, 2009Shabbat, May 16, 2009Friday, May 22, 2009Shabbat, May 23, 2009Light Candles at: 7:39 pmShabbat Ends: 8:40 pmLight Candles at: 7:45 pmShabbat Ends: 8:47 pmLight Candles at: 7:51 pmShabbat Ends: 8:54 pmLight Candles at: 7:57 pmShabbat Ends: 9:00 pmJune 7 – The Big Splash-Opening Day of the Community MikvahIsrael in the GardensJune 10 – “Survival in Shanghai”June 11 – Sisterhood Dinner and MeetingJune 28 – All Sisterhood Day

CommitmentMembership13Benefits of MembershipWhether you grew up loving religious school or you attendservices only once a year, there are innumerable benefits tobecoming a member at your local synagogue.Spiritual Benefits-Feeling nachas (pride) by supporting the Jewish community-A place to turn: in crisis, times of joy, when you just want tobelong-Volunteer opportunities-Being connected to 5,768 years of Jewish history and traditionIt is now time for all Temple members to declare their financialcommitment to Temple Emanu-El for the coming fiscal year2009-2010. It is only through your financial support that thesynagogue can provide all the benefits, including support forthe Religious School, worship services, adult education and allthe many other functions of our Jewish home. Please rememberthat you are affirming your commitment to your Jewish heritagerather than paying “dues” as one would to a health club orsocial organization.The Board of Trustees has decided to continue the sameprogram as last year. $1800 per year per family or $900 peryear per single member is still considered the “Basic” level, but“Sustaining” level of $2100 represents what it actually costsper family to keep our doors open.Over the past two years we have made significant progresstowards our goal of bringing all members to at least the Basiclevel, and many members generously volunteered to “step-up”their membership commitments to the Sustaining, Silver, Goldand Platinum levels.We will not be asking for increases from members who havealready made commitments at the Basic level or above; however,if you are able to increase your level of giving, you would behelping Temple Emanu-El become more financially soundand continue the vibrant energy that has been established inour congregation.The commitment requests will be coming out soon. Pleaserespond as quickly as possible.Thank you.Bob HerschFinancial Commitment Committee Chairdues@templesanjose.orgReligious Benefits-Leaving a legacy to the next generation of Jews and thosewho follow-Life cycle event support: Baby Naming, Brit Milah,Consecration, Bar/Bat Mitzvah, Confirmation, Wedding,Counseling, Funeral, Shiva-Clergy Support-Membership subsidizes our Religious SchoolsSocial Benefits-Feeling connected to the local and greater Jewish community-Havurot (friendship groups)-Extended Family-Sisterhood, Brotherhood, Xtra Years of Zest (XYZ),Youth GroupsEducational Benefits-Continuing the Jewish tradition of learning-Life-long learning opportunities (18 months – adult)-Informational speakers on a variety of topics: Israel, ReformJudaism, Tikkun Olam (Social Action), Multi-Culturalism,Religious Pluralism, etc.-Torah Study-Hebrew Language ClassesMonetary Benefits-Help to maintain a Jewish presence in the world-Complimentary High Holy Day tickets for you and yourfamily, discounted High Holy Day tickets for your extendedfamily-Priority enrollment and discounted tuition for our awardwinningpreschool-Discount on facility rental-Income tax deductionsIntangible Benefits- Innumerable!

Author EventAnnual Meeting14Survival in Shanghai:The Journals of Fred Marcus 1939-49by Audrey Friedman Marcus and Rena KrasnoWednesday, June 107:00pmA talk will be given aboutthe Jewish Holocaustimmigrants in Shanghaiby the authors.Hosted by Mort andBarbara Berlant and cosponsoredby Sisterhoodand Brotherhood.RSVP by June 8 tobook@templesanjose.org.Open to the communityat no charge.Temple Emanu-El’s146 th AnnualCongregational MeetingTuesday, May 267:00pm Reception7:30pm Meetingin the Temple HouseJoin your fellow congregants for a lovelydessert reception before the meeting at whichRabbi Dana Magat, the Board of Trustees andAuxiliaries will“…This is probably the first time that day-to-day life in Shanghai’swartime ghetto has been so accurately chronicled…”—Evelyn Pike Rubin, author Ghetto Shanghai; lecturer“History is written from both the ‘macro’ and “micro” perspective.We must know the ‘big’ picture, but it is the small detailswhich give that picture depth and texture. Fred Marcus’s diary,together with the commentary and elaboration provided by hiswife Audrey and Rena Krasno, open a window into the life ofa Jewish refugee in Shanghai during the dreadful years of theShoah.”—Michael Medavoy, CEO Phoenix PicturesReport on the State of the CongregationAnnounce the election results for the2009-2010 Temple Emanu-El Boardof TrusteesHear an update on the temple’s fiscalsituationPresent theo Mike Molak Brotherhood Awardo Herbert E. Preis Memorial Awardo Volunteer of the Year“….A touching story…”—Dr. Deborah E. Lipstadt, Dorot Professor of Modern Jewish andHolocaust Studies, Emory University; author, History on Trial: My Dayin Court with David IrvingIn 1939, Fred Marcus, a German-Jewish teenager, fled NaziGermany for the relative safety of Shanghai. Along with 20,000other stateless Jewish refugees, he endured hunger, disease, theJapanese occupation and American bombardments. And he kepta journal, recording the day-to-day details of life, of finding waysto support himself, getting enough to eat, joining a volunteerfire brigade, going to religious services, sharing good times withfriends. His journal, the coming-of-age story of a young man tryingto make a life in a difficult place during wartime, is enhancedby informative commentary by authors Audrey Friedman Marcusand Rena Krasno.Recognize retiring board membersThis is a great opportunity to betterunderstanding on the inner workings of yoursynagogue, meet your fellow congregants andenjoy the evening.

PreschoolReligious School15This morning I spent time in our special Wednesday morning musicclass with Cantor Meeka. The children have been learning andpreparing for Passover for about a week and were excited to singsome of their favorite Passover songs. Cantor Meeka began byhaving the children join her in singing the 4 Questions. Our 4 yearoldswere especially proud to have mastered all of the Hebrewinvolved in the 4 questions and proudly (loudly) sang with a giantsmile. In the room there were 61 children, 12 staff members, 1 momand Cantor Meeka and yet amongst all of the voices one particularlystood out. Little Naomi, age 4, had her eyes glued on Cantor Meekaand her voice was raised loud and clear. Not only has Naomilearned the words but more importantly she understands themeaning behind the questions. It was a great moment to realize thatmany of these children will be able to lead their families during theirown family Seder. Music continued on and Cantor Meeka led thechildren in a rousing round of Dayenu, I am fairly certain they couldbe heard from miles away!Our Preschoolers are learning how tobe a friend, how to respect oneself,how to color, read, count, paint andeven tie shoes. But the children atTemple Emanu-El Preschool are alsolearning the importance of JewishHolidays and traditions and even agreat deal of Hebrew. One day thesechildren will be adults and my hope isthat they will look back andremember that they went to a Jewishpreschool and they were loved.Barbara SmeadBarbara@templesanjose.orgWe have lots ofnew merchandisein theEmanu-ElJudaica ShopOpen after the Motzi onErev Shabbat (Fridaynight) and on Sundayswhen Religious School isin session.Also during the week; ask someone from the office to assist you.Temple Emanu-El Sisterhood operates the gift shop and all profitsare given to the synagogue.Find what you need for all Jewish holidaysFabulous new Israeli glass itemsBar and Bat Mitzvah registry and giftsPrayer books, Torah commentaries and more booksTallitot and gifts for all occasionsSpecial orders too!Religious School NewsWhat a year! And it isn’t over yet…I’ll start with a giant Todah Rabah (Hebrew for “thank you”) to:The wonderful parents in our Religious School, who continue tohelp make the Family Participation program a huge success.Without your assistance, our school would not be what it is. One ofthe most important elements about being a Jewish parent is rolemodeling, or being a dugma (Hebrew for “role model”). Judaism is areligion of action and doing. It is crucial that your children see youliving and participating in Jewish life. In order to succeed at Jewishparenting, one cannot say "Do as I say, not as I do." Rather, youractions must correspond to what you are telling your children. Byinvesting your time in our various activities, you are showing yourchild that time spent at Temple Emanu-El is important.Our world-class teachers, who don’t mind dodging sneezes, wheezes,or coughs, and often stay up late into the night preparing excitinglesson plans for our students. These dedicated individuals, alongwith Preschool teachers, will be leading the last Family ShabbatService on Friday, May 1, at 7:15 p.m. A congregational potluck willprecede the service, beginning at 6:15 p.m. So bring some food andprepare to shmooze (Yiddish for “chat”), it should be a very freylich(Yiddish for “merry” or “happy”) evening!Sisterhood and Brotherhood, who have supported us throughout theyear with funding, ritual foods and music. Lessons learned aboutJewish holidays are tasteless without Jewish food. Fortunately,Sisterhood has sustained us annually, with delicious holiday foods.And what would a Purim lunch on the patio be without theBrotherhood Band? I saw a lot of little Queen Esthers kicking uptheir heels and doing the swim (1960’s talk for “a dance move”).Our amazing Religious School Committee who worked tirelessly inpreparing for this great school year and worked together throughoutthe year providing leadership and support. Robin Hurwitz, MarciGerston, Suellen Haggerty, Carol Hoffman, Missy Marsh, DeborahOng, Jenny Shain, Lori Telson-Rubin, Greg Turetzky, NancyWeintraub, Sherman Zell.Finally: Thank you to our great teachers, madrichim, administrativestaff, and Rabbi Magat and Cantor Meeka for a great school year.Enrollment for 2009-2010:Student enrollment forms and a fee schedule will be enclosed withyour children’s end of year progress reports. Look for them towardthe end of May. Please take advantage of our Early Bird registrationspecial: postmark your envelope by July 1. Forms for scholarshipsare available from the main temple office.First time enrollments: If you have a child who will qualify to attendReligious or Hebrew School for the first time in September 2009,please call the office at 408.292.3223 so we can send you anenrollment package.School begins on Sunday, September 13, with a required parentmeeting so we can all get started together for a GREAT NEWYEAR!Paula Marsh, Religious School PrincipalPaula@templesanjose.org

Shabbat in Nature"Shabbat in Nature" Campout at Big BasinSaturday and Sunday, May 30 - 31It's not toolate to sign upfor our annual"Shabbat inNature" BigBasin campouton May 30and 31.“Reading about nature is fine, but if a personwalks in the woods and listens carefully, he canlearn more than what is in books, for they speakwith the voice of God”.– George Washington CarverJoin us for arefreshingShabbatovernightcampout atrustic SkyMeadow campsite from Saturday, May 30, starting at 2:00pm andending Sunday May 31st after breakfast. Space is limited to the first40 people and we have a few spaces remaining so get yourreservations in now (ritual@templesanjose.org).After setting up our tents on Saturday afternoon, we plan to trek tothe majestic Redwood nature trail for a “silent reflection” hike.Join us for Torah discussion led by Rabbi Magat, potluck dinner,Havdallah led by Cantor Meeka, singing, campfire, s’mores, ands’more. You are welcome to join us for the afternoon/eveningwithout camping out. Just let us know you'll be coming, as parkingis limited.Cost is $15 per person or $45 per family. Pick up a flyer with amap and complete details from the Shalom Table, theAdministrative office or the Religious School office.Ritual Committeeritual@templesanjose.orgDonationsGENERAL FUNDIn memory ofSam MintzerRita LorenMillie SegalMarilyn and Mort LeiterPauline and Jacob BraunsteinRandee V. ChinIBM Quarter Century ClubJay FrankelRochelle and Bernie GreenfieldGeorge InyJoseph RosenbaumSlava Frieda MillerGolda MillerCharles RubinPauline and Jacob BraunsteinEsther SchneiderNatalie and William MauskopfLenny FisherAlan Fisher and FamilyDr. Maurice M. MalenMargie and Ed CahnMarjorie EdelsonHarriet and Walter SaltzmanEmmy Lou LevinSydney LevinIn appreciation ofThe Mishloach Manot Bag from CongregantsEllen TerrellIn honor ofGregory Sprintz’ Bar MitzvahBob and Carol TesslerReaffirmation of vows by Richard and Eleanor RusnakMarvin and Joan FoxMarcia and Joe RiggioSpeedy Recovery ofSybil Sommer and Bobbye GorenbergMargie and Ed CahnDonationDebra and Henry WatkinsRABBI’S DISCRETIONARY FUNDIn memory ofRobert MorseMaxine MorseJay FrankelCecil WeintraubBeatrice SilinThe Silin FamilyEdward GreenPhilip and Roma GreenIn honor ofMacEnzie Blue’s namingJeffrey and Christina BlueJoshua Applebaum’s Bar MitzvahJeffrey and Johanna ApplebaumIn appreciation ofRabbi MagatRobin and Walter HurwitzStu and Brenda Weinstock16

DonationsThank You17CANTORIAL DISCRETIONARY FUNDIn memory ofMary Ann KaiselBob and Maggie CantIn appreciation ofCantor Intern Meeka SimerlyRobin and Walter HurwitzIn honor ofJoshua Applebaum’s Bar MitzvahJeffrey and Johanna ApplebaumALVIN RAVEL GARDEN FUNDIn memory ofBea LevySally RavelIn honor ofB’not Mitzvah of Aliza and Chloe AbarbanelSally RavelMILTON FOX CAMPERSHIP FUNDSpeedy recovery ofSybil SommerMarvin and Joan FoxLEONARD AND BERNICE GAON CAMPERSHIP FUNDIn memory ofJoseph FischerMillie WolfsonPHYLLIS MATZNER CAMPERSHIP FUNDIn memory ofMickey BrambirCarol and Henry ThailerRELIGIOUS SCHOOL FUNDIn memory ofSam MintzerJoseph and Michelle GabrielGary and Janet KatzJoan SingerNesya FishstromIn honor of Joelle WolfJoseph and Michelle GabrielFor the speedy recovery ofBobbye GorenbergRuth KrandelIn honor ofEleanor and Richard Rusnak’s AnniversarySherman and Bettey NaymarkRuth KrandelRuth RosenbergBETTY RINSLER RELIGIOUS SCHOOLENDOWMENT FUNDIn memory ofSam MintzerBarbara and Jerry KristalJane and Ed SchwartzMarty Schwartz, Dorothy GelfarbPaul Hayfer, Lillian Hayfer, Betty RinslerJane and Ed SchwartzAlbert SimoneEthel RessRose RinslerLeon Rinsler and FamilyWalter WolfsonMillie Wolfson and FamilyIn honor ofAlef 2 and 2 nd Grade ServiceBobbi LotmanISRAEL SCHOLARSHIP FUNDIn memory ofGlen YancoJoan SingerSUZANNE BLICKMAN ARTS AND CRAFTS FUNDIn memory ofSam MintzerGinny and Manny SieglerLEVIN LEARNING CENTER FUNDIn memory ofMarilyn Torgerson, Miriam Ayllon, Michael White, Shelley GustasonDavid LedwitzJUDITH JURMAN OMENS CEMETERYBEAUTIFICATION FUNDIn memory ofMinnie RudinIlean RudinLOLLIE BRICKNER MEDIA FUNDIn memory ofAnne RotofskyMark LutvakPRAYERBOOK FUNDIn memory ofSelma Schlachter BensonDr. and Mrs. Lawrence RossTodah Rabah (thank you) from Richard and Eleanor Rusnak. Wewould like to thank our family and friends at Temple Emanu-Elfor joining us for our Re-Wedding ceremony on Sunday, March 29.We would especially like to thank the 6th grade class, theirwonderful teacher, Suellen Haggerty and Rabbi and Meeka forarranging our renewal of vows ceremony that we shared on our51st wedding anniversary. From the handmade Chuppah to thelovely poem you wrote for us to the delicious oneg, everything wasbeautiful. Thank you!We note with sorrow the passing of:Phyllis Reisner, sister of David ReisnerOzzie Malek, brother-in-law of Gerry and Suzanne Boxer GassmanLouise Manning, aunt of Edith Pollock KerrBen Finkel, brother-in-law of Doris Rosenberg.May their memories be a blessing.Thank you to the preceding congregants and friends who remembered Temple Emanu-El with their generous contributions.Donations made after April 15, 2009 will be listed in the June 2009 issue of Connections.

12345678Birthdays and Anniversaries910111213141516171819Margie GoodmanDaniel GottfeldSue ShachalLori MoorheadBruce FoxMarcia RatnerRobert KaufmanJoshua TuckerKaren HenryLinda MowryJann JonesLorie KaplanWendy MacLeanAndrew NussbaumGabriel SegalBobbye GorenbergJames BeninghausButch DiSessaJoseph GitinGary KatzBeverly MendelJulie MooreMatthew RissmanBernice GaonJill HuchitalRita LorenKristi BlumsteinRuth RossKathryn SucherKen AbramsMichelle GearyAriana HenryKelsey HurwitzKathy JenkinsBarbara KristalSherman NaymarkAileen Teren-FosterFrieda ForsterLeo RinslerIva RoseDavid ZellMarilyn HandloffGary JonesMitchell ReisnerMatthew RossAdam RubinMichele EatonStuart JohnsonOliver PohlandJerry BarnhartJanet BergAdam ConeShari KaplanJordan SofrisFred JustIsaac OakVicki Nosanov GoldmanRichard BurriesciSamantha CasalePatrick Salak202122232425262728293031167891118192023242629Rhonda HansenMax JohnsonEvlyn HubertAl RothZachary HeerwagenRoss MowryRichard FermanAmy LambertBeth DayenBradley PhinickAdam SciupacKristina FernandezMyra ReinhardNoah RubinMort BerlantCarolyn FabischElsa GordonDawn MalterLarry GerstonEvelyn TurkusSusana CahnDoris DavisJeff BlueJoAnne HerschNancy MarkhamRobert CantGail JacobsBill MedeirosAnniversariesMarvin and Bonnie BamburgBill and Anita MedeirosManny and Gloria AscherRon and Sue TimpsonGeorge and Carol HofheimerBennett and Deborah JacobsteinEli and Sue ShachalRobert and Rosalyn ApplebaumChris and Stacey DederingKarl and Susannah PfalzerBob and Teri BrolemanByron Lilly and Nancy WeintraubRandy and Stacey OharaOliver Pohland and Elena KlawJerry and Claire BarnhartBob and Judy LevySteve and Shari KrandelFabio Marino andRobin Feinman-MarinoMichael and Millie SprintzFred and Freda JustJeff and Karen KruppDavid and Linda MighdollSimchasMatthew Ross, son of Julieand Jay Ross, will be called tothe Torah as a Bar Mitzvah onSaturday, May 9. Matthew is aseventh grade honor rollstudent at Fisher Middle Schoolin Los Gatos. In his free time,Matthew enjoys playing a varietyof sports, including baseball andbasketball, football and golf,playing board games andspending time with his friends.In an effort to share theseinterests with those lessfortunate, Matthew will becollecting sports equipment andgames to donate to localchildren’s charities including the Family Supportive Housing Inc. andthe Santa Clara County Children’s Center in San Jose. His parasha,Emor, discusses equality and fairness. Matthew is the secondgeneration to become a Bar Mitzvah at Temple Emanu-El, where hisgrandparents have been members for many years. His family is veryproud of him!Kelsey Hurwitz is a seventhgrader at Miller Middle School.Her Torah portion is aboutsome good and bad things thatwill happen to you if you obeyor disobey God. For hermitzvah project, Kelsey had abake sale and has done manyother things in an effort to raisemoney to donate to the SanJose Police Department CanineUnit to buy a bullet proof vestfor one of the dogs. Her hobbiesinclude soccer, photography andswimming. She would very much like to thank her grandparents,aunts, uncles and cousins for coming out from across the country tosupport her on her special Bat Mitzvah day on May 16. Her lovingand honored parents are Walter and Robin Hurwitz.Mitchell Reisner completedhis basic training inthe U.S. Army. Mitchell willbe studying AdvancedIndividual Training in MilitaryIntelligence at Fort Huachuca,Arizona and is planning a careerin the CIA or FBI. He is agraduate of San Jose State. Hisproud parents are David &Harriet Reisner. His sister isMelissa and is a Lance Corporalin the Marines.Yasher Koach!We wish a very happy birthday and anniversary to our congregants who are celebrating this month. If your name is not listed or the informationis wrong, please be in touch with the office to provide us with updated information. Thank you.May you be blessed with a year of goodness and fulfillment.18

YarzheitsMay 1 (7:15 PM Service)Sarah Banks, Uarda Burns, Mollie Drezinsky, Rose Sarah Forest,Muriel Gardner, Morris Golden, Rose Handen, Judith Hettler,Annette Hornbein, Jeannette Josephs, Siegfried Kahn, AlexandraKanciruk, Elias Levin, Mildred Lurie, Jack Marchick, Samuel SemmyMarcus, Paris Frank Massik, Irving Mighdoll, Anne Miller, BenjaminNadel, Beatrice W. Newman, Dewey Richards, Bernice Richman,Eric Rinsler, Beatrice Rosenblum, Herb Terrell, Clara Weinstein,Malvin Weiss, Robert WootenMay 8 (7:30 PM Service)Rachel Epstein Annan, Mollie Bain, Marcus Joel Bernstein, SophieBlumer, Joseph Boroditsky, Bessie Engleman Cohn, Victor Donath,Jack Gardner, , Eleanore Goldfinger, Helen Hersch, Theodore D.Holstein, Elvira Kakis, Leonard Katz, Nathan Litman, Isaac Miller,Percy Mostow, Lena Naymark, Jamie Beth Nussbaum, Harry Pollak,John Puopolo, Isaac Rousso, Philip Ruby, Steven Rutherford, LillianF. Silver, Sarah Simon, Mollye Sockolov, Max Sucher, RobertTobias, Harry Aaron Wagner, Jack Weiss, Joseph Woron, NormanZinkerMay 15 (7:30 PM Service)Gertrude Altman, Morris Atlas, Ruth Bryman, Esther Cohen, FreidaIda Engleman, Rachel Glicksberg, Hilda Goldman, HermanGreenberg, Ursula Gusdorf, Lillian Heller, Samuel Kahn, Nettie Lee,Louis Leven, David Levine, Nathan Lewis, Florence Libglid, Jack B.Mackay, Kate Mamon, Gary Melmon, Rebecca Miller, JeanModiano, Sheldon Prizant, Murray Rockowitz, Tony D. Rose, SarraSaltzman, Seymour Louis Stone, Irwin TuttelmanMay 22 (7:30 PM Service)Frances Atlas, Morton Barr, Claire Basist, Philip Basist, BernieBernstein, Dr. Samuel Abram Blauner, Juliet Roy Bloom, MaxBoxer, Harold Dworkin, Hirsch Engleman, Beatrice Fishman,George I. Frank, William Frankel, Michael L. Freed, AbrahamFriedman, W.C. Grammer, Nathan Havlin, Bernard Hawk, RoseHubert, Joe Jaffee, Dora Kaisel, Craig Karnal, Jacob Ari Katz, AnnaC. Lax, Rachel Leiter, Abe Lerner, Carl McClure, Bluma Nadel,Randy Reiser, Burton Rubenstein, Julius Schatten, Elfriede Schimek,Max Schwalbe, Gilbert Senigaglia, Albert I Silver, Max Simans,Charleen Weinstein, Ruth WisemanMay 29 (6:30 PM service)Clara W. Altschuler, Meyer Bloom, Angie Cavallaro, Robert Cohn,Vivian Debenport, Anita Eisenberg, Larry Fabisch, Julian Forster,Lottie Ganz, Binyamin Gold, Irwin Goldberg, Edith Goldeen, AlGolden, Joel Goldfarb, Mae Citron Gordon, Sidney Huchital, EileenJackel, Beverly Levin Jordan, Emily Grace Leiter, Emil Leoffler,Gertrude Levine, Ethel Lindauer, Oscar Shev, , Howard Silberman,Harry Smith, Isadore Stein, Philip Svigals, Irving Taub, SidneyWeissman, Max David Yampol, Rose YzhakiGloria Melmon AscherRealtor12988 Saratoga/Sunnyvale RoadSaratoga, CA 95070www.gloriaascher.comOffice 408.741.1111Direct 408.741.1174 ex. 604Fax 408.741.7076Cell 408.781.8624Dana L. MagatSenior Rabbirabbimagat@templesanjose.orgLeadershipClergyMeeka SimerlyCantor Internmeekantor@templesanjose.orgJoseph Gitin, D.D.Rabbi EmeritusBoard of TrusteesPresident: Steve Greenberg president@templesanjose.orgImmediate Past President: Ruth Krandel pastpresident@templesanjose.orgVP Administration: Steve Krandel vpadmin@templesanjose.orgVP Marketing/Communications: Nancy Weintraub vpmc@templesanjose.orgVP Membership: Laura Danoff-Robinson vpmembership@templesanjose.orgVP Education and Youth: Marci Gerston vprey@templesanjose.orgSecretary: Barry L. Cohen secretary@templesanjose.orgTreasurer: Joe Riggio treasurer@templesanjose.orgRich Albert Mark Cahn Gerry GassmanUri Gottfeld Jonathan Hirshon Kim JackmanSteve Ladowitz David Mimeles Ruth PangilinanEleanor Rusnak Michelle Schneiderman Greg TuretzkyBrotherhood President: Bob Levy brotherhood@templesanjose.orgSisterhood President: Rita Loren wote@templesanjose.orgEESY Presidents: Brent Ghan and Kristina Fernandezyouthgroup@templesanjose.orgCommitteesMarci Gerston Adult Education vprey@templesanjose.orgBob Hersch Dues dues@templesanjose.orgUri Gottfeld Facilities facilities@templesanjose.orgKim JackmanSharon GenkinMembershipMembershipMembership@templesanjose.orgRobin Hurwitz Religious School rs@templesanjose.orgMark Cahn Ritual ritual@templesanjose.orgRich Albert Tikkun Olam to@templesanjose.orgJames PerlsteinExecutive Directorjperlstein@templesanjose.org408.292.0939Deborah ZimmerMember Services Coordinatordvorazim@templesanjose.org408.292.0939Marcy WeissDirector of InformalEducation/Clergy Assistantmweiss@templesanjose.org408.292.0939MaryAnn OrlowskiBookkeepermorlowski@templesanjose.org408.292.0939StaffEditor: Marcy WeissPaula MarshReligious School PrincipalPaula@templesanjose.org408.292.3223Beth RoelligReligious School AssistantSchool@templesanjose.org408.292.3223Barbara SmeadPreschool DirectorBarbara@templesanjose.org408.293.8660Bob BasuinoCemetery Administratorrjbasuinosr@aol.com408.297.363619

Temple Emanu-El1010 University AvenueSan Jose, CA 95126www.templesanjose.orgAddress Service RequestedNon-Profit Org.US POSTAGE 20PAIDPermit No. 542San Jose, CAOperating and Tribute Funds:General FundRabbi’s Discretionary FundCantor’s Discretionary FundExecutive Director’s Discretionary FundAlvin Ravel Garden FundBeverly Jordan Temple Beautification FundJudith Jurman Omens CemeteryBeautification FundCapital Campaign FundLollie Brickner Media Center FundLou and Clara Juren Library FundRalph Goldeen Library FundReligious Funds:Harold Cahn Prayerbook FundHerbert Marchick High Holy Day FundKenneth Gordon Children’s Prayerbook FundMaurice Tucker High Holy Day Music FundIda F. Kragen Consecration and Caring FundYouth Funds:Religious School FundReligious School Enrichment FundBetty Rinsler Religious School Endowment FundWeintraub Religious School Scholarship FundCampership FundLeonard and Bernice Gaon Campership FundMichael Elman Campership FundMilton Fox Campership FundPhyllis Matzner Campership FundIsrael Scholarship FundSusanne C. Blickman Arts and Crafts FundCultural Funds:Choir FundAndrew Apte Temple Historical FundPhyllis Omel Junior Choir FundBertram Berns Music FundShank-Rockman Family Sound System FundCommunity Funds:Facilities for the Aged Fund (Chai House)JoAnne Salman-Tehrani Homeless FundOther Tribute Opportunities:$36 - Prayerbook Tribute$218/$500/$750 - Tree of LifeLeaf/small/large rock$500 - Sanctuary Chair Plaque$750 - Memorial Plaque (in sanctuary foyer)Opportunities in Levin Learning Center:$5,000 - Stair Plaque$10,000 - Library Column Dedication$25,000 - Room DedicationContact the office for additionalopportunities.Making a contribution to one of Temple Emanu-El’s many funds is a wonderful way to honor your friends and family. You may make contributions in honor ofa birth, birthday, brit milah, baby naming, Bar/Bat Mitzvah, Confirmation, graduation, engagement, wedding, anniversary, promotion, new home,special occasion or just because. You may also make contributions for get-well wishes, condolence, remembrance and yartzeits.