HAPPENINGS 
February 10, 2015 / 21 Shevat 5775
Fri., Feb. 13
Coming Together on Shabbat: 10 STRING SYMPHONY
Shabbat Service led by Rabbi Chaya: 7:00pm
Schmooze: 7:30pm / Performance: 8:00pm - $10 per person
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Mon., Feb. 16
Office & Pre-School Closed for Presidents' Holiday
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Fri., Feb. 20Shabbat Service & Ruach Service
Tot Shabbat: 5:40pm / Dinner: 6:00pm / Service: 7:00pm
RSVP to the Sign-Up Genius link
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Sun., March 1
The Israeli Elections and American Jewry: What's at Stake?
Presentation & discussion by Rabbi Uri Regev, Esq., 5:00pm
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Fri., March 6
Save the Date: Purim Celebration, 7:00pm
Our theme is Heroes & Villians! Develop your costume accordingly! Live Music, Spiels & Fun!
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SERVICES


All are welcome to come
 celebrate with us.

Shabbat Evening Service
led by Rabbi Chaya 
Friday, February 13
7:00pm

Followed by 
Schmooze at 7:30pm
Concert at 8:00pm
CHESED
Hands

CHESED UPDATE

Zichrono L'vracha
May His Memory 
Be a Blessing

Dr. Joseph Gusfield
The memorial service for Dr. Joseph Gusfield, father of Rabbi Chaya Gusfield, will be held on:
Friday, Feb. 20
11:00am
Reutlinger Center for
Jewish Living
4000 Camino Tasajara, Danville
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MAZEL TOV!

Congratulations to Rabbi Dan and Yael on the birth of their grandnephew, Gabriel Emet Rohr, son of Sarah and Brian Rohr (Rabbi Dan's brother David's daughter and son-in-law). Rabbi Dan will be going up to Oregon to participate in the Brit Milah this weekend.

Congratulations to our Office Admin Assistant and her husband, 
Aaron and Heidi Stagg, on the birth of their second grandson,
Matthew Taylor Wood, in Louisiana on Feb. 5th. Heidi's daughter, Meghan, son-in-law, Brian, and #1 grandson Cody, are all healthy and happy.
__________________

We have set up a community on this site to support Beth Chaim families needing Chesed support.
Click on the link above and you will be prompted to request membership.

We will be updating this site as needs arise.

If you have Chesed needs or any questions, please contact 
Marc Feder at [email protected].
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P'TACH LIBEYNU

One out of every four families is touched by mental illness. The challenges are daunting.
P'tach Libeynu is working to educate people about mental illness; to provide needed support to families and their loved ones with mental illness; and to further this mission by helping Jewish synagogues and agencies to make mental illness a recognized part of tikkun olam.

Mental Health First Aid
Feb. 22 & Mar. 1
 12:45am-5:00pm
This class aims to educate people about mental illness, not only to reduce the stigma but also to empower them to reach out with compassion and knowledge to those experiencing mental health issues. Participants learn about depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, and substance abuse through lectures, videos, exercises and discussion with our trained facilitator.
RSVP is mandatory as space is limited: Diana at 925.988.9767 or [email protected].

Family Support Group
Mon., Feb. 23, 7:00-8:30pm
Temple Isaiah lower education building, room 204
RSVP to Karen at 925.945.7272 or  [email protected].

 Visit www.OpenOurHearts.net for the monthly newsletters. Email 
Diana Makieve or call 925.988.9767 with questions.
   

TIKKUN OLAM OPPORTUNITIES 

TOILETRIES DRIVE


 

We continue to collect full and travel size cosmetics and toiletries for refugees of all ages for JCFS of the East Bay. Donations will be presented as a "hygiene kit" including: toothbrush/paste, soap, comb, deodorant, brush, dental floss and other basic items.

 

Please bring your items to the drop box in the foyer or to the office



MILESTONES

YAHRZEIT CANDLES
In our tradition, we say of loved ones who have died, "May their memory be a blessing" and mark this ongoing process of turning memory into blessing by lighting a yahrzeit candle and reciting the Mourner's Kaddish on the anniversary of their death. We will send you a reminder card two weeks before the anniversary of your loved one's passing and hope that you will consider attending Shabbat services to honor their memory. 
 
A yahrzeit candle is available for you to pick up at the Beth Chaim office at no charge for your observance.

Thank you to Judith Markowitz and Glen Schabacker for donating the candles and special reminder postcards.

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BETH CHAIM'S BEACH BALL GALA!
Shaloha Everyone!

We are nine weeks away and counting down to Beth Chaim's major fundraising event of the year. Full of fun, food and friends in a casual, comfortable, Hawaii-ish setting, with music, dancing, and the spirit of Beth Chaim's warmth and friendship, you won't want to miss this event.

We're still accepting donations of timeshares, sports tickets, jewelry, along with gift certificates and/or merchandise. Check out our Sign-Up Genius by clicking 

Save the Date:
Saturday, April 18
at the San Ramon Community Center
 
Please contact Sara O'Bryant at [email protected] or Rae Corr at [email protected] for more information.
 
UPCOMING BETH CHAIM EVENTS/ANNOUNCEMENTS

BETH CHAIM IS ON FACEBOOK!

"Like" our Facebook Group, Beth Chaim Congregation, for event notices, updates and weekly G-d Cast video links. 
 

COMING TOGETHER ON SHABBAT: 

10 STRING SYMPHONY

Friday, February 13

Shabbat Service led by Rabbi Chaya: 7:00pm

Schmooze: 7:30pm / Performance: 8:00pm

10 String Symphony is an arena for mesmerizing acoustic innovation. Although difficult to categorize, their music is instantly recognizable as a blend of two distinct but equally vivacious musical voices, encompassing "aggressive, almost discordant, celtic and dare I say punky string-chording experimentations" (The Bluegrass Situation). Only two years old as a band, the duo has already gained recognition and attention from some major festivals, landing slots at the ROMP festival in Owensboro, KY, the Strawberry Music Festival in Yosemite, CA, and a headlining slot at the 2014 Auckland Folk Festival in New Zealand. $10 donation with RSVP to the Office or via the PayPal link below.

'Anna Jane' by 10 String Symphony
'Anna Jane' by 10 String Symphony
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BETH CHAIM JEWKULELE CLUB MEETING

Sundays, February 15 and March 22, 11:00am

Beth Chaim Conference Room

Come join fellow congregants in Beth Chaim's own ukulele club (Jewkulele!). All ages and experience levels are welcome, including beginners. Our eclectic mix of music will include some of Beth Chaim's favorites from Ruach and other services, along with contemporary music and old standards. If you have your own ukulele,please bring it; if you need a loaner or to give a head's up that you'll be attending, email Harold Freiman [email protected].

MEN'S GATHERING

Thursday, February 19, 7:00pm

Home of Jeremy & MaryJo Smith

We gather this month to reflect on stories of how generosity brings meaning to our lives. We draw upon the wisdom of our tradition for inspiration, listen carefully to others, and see what these stories evoke in us. Rabbi Dan facilitates. Your presence makes this worthwhile and you are invited to bring a friend.


SHABBAT DINNER & RUACH SERVICE

Friday, February 20

Tot Shabbat: 5:40pm / Dinner: 6:00pm / Service: 7:00pm

Sponsored by every grade of our Religious School

The entire community is invited to join in this spirited,energetic evening with special participation by the 4th Grade Religious School Class! An ice cream social follows the family service. Dinner menu details and RSVP by clicking Here by Noon on February 19th.


SPECIAL SERIES BY EVE DECKER:

"Mindfulness & Song to Support Well Being"

Sundays, Feb. 22, March 1, 8 & 15, 4:00-5:30pm

Beth Chaim Sanctuary

Neuroscience has proven without a doubt that practices in mindfulness and lovingkindness can considerably increase our sense of happiness in life. Brain science also shows that music can uplift and transform our emotional state. These practices are deeply rooted in the Jewish spiritual path. Cost for the series: $80. Friends welcome. RSVP to the office or via the PayPal link below.

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ROSH CHODESH
Tuesday, February 24, 7:00pm
Home of Sharon Abrams
All women of Beth Chaim are welcome to attend our Rosh Chodesh gathering for the month of Adar. You don't need to have attended previously to enjoy the gathering. Meet for socializing and light refreshments at 7:00pm; we will begin promptly at 7:30pm. 

 

THE ISRAELI ELECTIONS AND AMERICAN JEWRY -

WHAT'S AT STAKE?

AN ISRAELI INSIDER'S PRESENTATION 

BY RABBI URI REGEV

Sunday, March 1, 5:00pm

Rabbi Uri Regev is one of the most important figures in Israel political life. He will speak about pluralism and freedom of religion in Israel today. An attorney and internationally recognized expert on religious freedom and equality in Israel, Rabbi Regev is founding president of Hiddush, a non-denominational and non-partisan Israel-Diaspora partnership that advocates for religious freedom and equality in the Knesset and the courts. We are honored to be able to host this esteemed public figure, in one of his few East Bay appearances. The event is free, but watch for registration information.
 

Rabbi Uri Regev explains Hiddush
Rabbi Uri Regev explains Hiddush

 

THE GRATITUDE TREE HAS TAKEN ROOT!

Our new piece of art temporarily graces the hallway wall to the library until we can prepare its permanent location in our front foyer. This beautiful tree adds depth and breadth to our Beth Chaim home and is a symbol of life and the ongoing stories of our diverse membership. The title of the tree is "Modeh Ani,"

which means "I give thanks." Leaves can be purchased to honor loved ones and events for all varieties of meaningful occasions and memories. Click HERE for a description and the order form for a leaf!


MEMBERSHIP BUSINESS DIRECTORY
If you would like your business listed in the Beth Chaim Website Business Directory, please email your information to our webmaster, Mark Garetz, at [email protected].

 

BUY CHALLAH, SUPPORT BETH CHAIM!

Orders due EVERY WEDNESDAY

Place your order by Wednesday each week and Tal's Patisserie will deliver your fresh baked plain or sesame challah to Beth Chaim by 10am every Friday. Loaves are only $5 each and Tal's will donate 20% back to Beth Chaim!  

 

Click the PayPal link below to order or call the office. You can also order multiple weeks at once.

 

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YEAR-ROUND FOOD DONATIONS AT BETH CHAIM

Beth Chaim is committed to supporting the great work of the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. We are now participating in their neighborhood program by offering

green bags for members to keep at home. Put a food item every week, and drop it off in the bin when your bag is full! It's that easy to help stop hunger all year.  Contact Naomi, Director of Tikkun Olam, with Questions.

 

SHOP ON AMAZON = SUPPORT BETH CHAIM!

Visit smile.amazon.com to register. Search for Beth Chaim Congregation of Contra Costa County and that's it! Beth Chaim will receive 0.5% of every eligible purchase! Don't forget to bookmark the page for easy return shopping. Tell your friends!
BEIT MIDRASH - RELIGIOUS SCHOOL - MIDRASHA

HEBREW POWER HOUR

Wednesday, February 11

Thursday, February 12

  

RELIGIOUS SCHOOL

NO Religious School on Sunday, February 15

 

LIFELONG LEARNING

Sunday, February 22, 10:00-11:00am

"Isaac Loved Esau:" Loving Our Children for 

Who They Are
According to our rabbinic sages, Jacob's brother Esau is a rude and nasty guy. But what if there was another explanation? Building off the analysis of Dr. Ora Horn Prouser, we'll look at Esau as history's first recorded case of ADHD. We will take a close look at the textual basis for this claim, as well as practical implications at both home and school. No knowledge of Hebrew or prior experience with Torah is required.
 

CONTRA COSTA MIDRASHA

February 11: Meeting

 

Superhero Fundraising Event

Saturday, February 28, 6:30pm

Beth Chaim Congregation

Live music, dinner, wine and cocktails, silent and live auctions and dessert dash! Visit ccmidrasha.com/annual event for more information on tickets or donating a service or goods.

 

WEEKLY TORAH PORTION VIDEO

We invite you to share this week's video from G-d Cast with your children:

Parshat Mishpatim: What The Bible Says About Money Lending
Parshat Mishpatim: What The Bible Says About Money Lending

SISTERHOOD 
BOOK GROUP
Tuesday, February 17, 7:00PM
Home of Linda Jaffe
The selection is Love & Treasure by Ayelet Waldman. RSVP to Linda Jaffe at 
[email protected]. For more information on the Book Group, contact Deborah Blankfeld at [email protected].

20TH ANNUAL BETH CHAIM SISTERHOOD
HAMANTASCHEN BAKING DAY
Sunday, February 22, 9:15am
Beth Chaim Kitchen
All women and children are welcome to join in the mitzvah of baking for the Beth Chaim Purim Festival! Come for all,or part of the day (we'll likely end around 12pm after cleanup). Refreshments will be provided. Please bring a batch of dough, rolling pin, cookie sheets, cooling racks and an apron if you have them. If you can't stay to assemble and bake, please help us make a batch (or two, preferably) of dough and drop it off that morning (or before; just leave in the temple fridge with "Hamantaschen" on the bag). RSVP to Kelly Holden at [email protected] or 925.785.7059. 
For the Hamantaschen recipe, click Here.

Sisterhood is a dynamic and fun group and is open to all women members of Beth Chaim.Dues are $40 per year, beginning after the High Holy Days. Please send your membership check to Treasurer Janice Frankel made payable to Beth Chaim Sisterhood: Janice Frankel, 11 La Vista Way, Danville, CA  94506. For more information contact Sara Goldstein at [email protected] or call 925.366.7272.

BROTHERHOOD
BROTHERHOOD LUNCH

Tuesday, February 17, 12:00pm

Chevy's, San Ramon

Join us for a casual lunch at Chevy's in San Ramon. This is just a chance to get together, have a nice lunch and schmooze with the brothers. RSVP to [email protected], but come by even if you don't RSVP since we should have plenty of room. See you there!

 

JOURNEY TO ISRAEL
In partnership with The Jewish Federation of the East Bay, Beth Chaim is sponsoring the 
"Alight: Israel" Community trip, to take place on April 29-28, 2015. This is a wonderful opportunity for our members to see the country by designing their own Israel experience through daily customized excursions. Tracts include Arts & Culture, Historic, Hi-Tech, Geopolitical, Social Action and Jewish learning. To learn more, visit jfed.org/israel2015, or contact JFED at 510.809.4953 or email [email protected]
 
UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
SAFE HARBOR: A Benefit for JFCS/East Bay's Refugee & Immigration Services
Sunday, February 22, 7:00pm
Freight & Salvage Coffeehouse, 2020 Addison St., Berkeley
A multi-cultural musical event raising funds to supp
ort providing resettlement, mental health, case management, and legal services for refugees and immigrans from Afghanistan
, Iran, Iraq, Bosnia, the former Soviet Union, Latin America, and Africa. Featuring Eliyahu & The Qadim Ensemble, opening by World Harmony Chorus. RSVP by Feb. 12. Tickets available at www.bit.ly/safe_harbor. For more information, contact Shelley Waits at 510.704.7480, ext. 777 or email swaits@jfcs_eastbay.org.

TWO NEW EXHIBITS OPEN AT CJM
Thursday, February 26, 5:30-8:00pm
Contemporary Jewish Museum, 755 Mission St., SF
You are invited to join the CJM Board of Trustees to the opening of Letters to Afar and Poland and Palestine: Two Lands and Two Skies with Budapest-based filmmaker and video-artist Peter Forgacs. The evening will include Klezmer music, a tasty pop-up, and hosted wine bar. Free for members; $10 general admission for non-members. RSVP HERE. The exhibits will run through May 24th.

KLEZMATICS' FRANK LONDON DISCUSSES 
LETTERS TO AFAR
Friday, March 6, 1:00-2:30pm
Contemporary Jewish Museum, 755 Mission St., SF
Free with museum admission
The Klezmatics' bandleader and Letters to Afar collaborator, Frank London talks about the creation of the exhibition's music and his own Jewish and musical journey. For tickets, click HERE. For more information on the CJM, visit www.thecjm.org.

FIRST-TIME JEWISH CAMPER DISCOUNTS
BunkConnect is a user-friendly referral program designed to help middle and lower income families access Jewish camp at special rates. Interested families can visit www.BunkConnect.org.

INTERNATIONAL JEWISH SUMMER CAMP IN HUNGARY: THE SZARVAS FELLOWSHIPS
Deadline: February 11
Camp Szarvas is an incredible opportunity for teens to attend the largest international Jewish camp in Szarvas, Hungary with a pluralistic group of students from across the United States and Canada. This program will explore issues of Jewish identify, pluralism, Jewish peoplehood and more.
Scholarships are available for teens entering 11th and 12th grades in the San Francisco JCF service area. For information, visit http://tinyurl.com/sf-jewishfed or contact Lisa Pavlovsky at [email protected]. 

GRADUATING SENIORS: 
BECOME AN EISENDRATH LEGISLATIVE ASSISTANT
Deadline: February 19
Legislative Assistants are at the heart of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism's advocacy work, educational seminars and conference programming. For more information visit the Religious Action Center website. Applications are now open.

JEWISH HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT-ATHLETE SCHOLARSHIP AWARD
Deadline: March 2

The Northern California Jewish Sports Hall of Fame is accepting nominations of outstanding Jewish student-athletes for a small college scholarship (approx. $1,500). Any secondary school Jewish student (male or female, grade 12) in Northern California may be nominated. Criteria for eligibility: One who identifies him/herself as a Jew, or who acknowledges their Jewish heritage, or who wants to reconnect with their Jewish ancestral identity. For criteria, email Gary Wiener at [email protected]. If you have questions, please call Gary Wiener at 408-374-1600, or Barbara Oseroff, Scholarship Committee, 510-653-5155.


PAID SUMMER INTERNSHIPS
Apply now for the Jewish Vocational Service of San Francisco's Kohn Summer Intern Program. This unique 8-week internship provides Jewish college undergraduates the opportunity to work for a Jewish non-profit organization, build job search skills, be mentored and examine issues facing the Jewish community. Interns are compensated $2,500 for their work over the summer. For eligibility, information an dhow to apply visit www.jvs.org/kohn, email [email protected] or call 415.391.3600.

HEBREW FREE LOANS

Hebrew Free Loans provides interest-free loans to Jewish residents in Northern California needing assistance or pursuing lifelong dreams. Loan categories include: student, adoption, business, first-time home buyer, unemployment, emergency, debt consolidation, and more. For more information or to apply for a loan, visit www.hflasf.org or call 415.546.9902.

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