HAPPENINGS 
June 9, 2015 / 22 Sivan 5775
Tues., June 9Brotherhood Warriors Watch: NBA Finals Game 3
Beth Chaim Sanctuary, 5:30pm
All are welcome! 
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Fri., June 12
Shabbat Evening Service 
Weather permitting, we will welcome Shabbat on the patio, 7:30pm
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Sat., June 13
Shabbat Morning Service
Beth Chaim Sanctuary, 9:30am
Skylar Wechsler becomes a Bat Mitzvah
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SERVICES


All are welcome to come
 celebrate with us.

Friday, June 12
Shabbat Evening Service
7:30pm

Saturday, June 13
Shabbat Morning Service
9:30am
Skylar Wechsler
becomes a Bat Mitzvah

CHESED
Hands

CHESED UPDATE

If you have Chesed needs or any questions, please contact our Chesed Coordinator, 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.

Upcoming events:

Support Group for Families
Monday, June 22, 7:00pm
Temple Isiah lower education bldg., room 204.

Mental Health First Aid
August 30 & September 13
8:30am - 1:00pm
This eight hour class will be presented in two half-day sessions and teaches how to recognize possible mental health problems developing, assess risk and take action to calm the situation and gain help. Sign up by contacting Diana at 925.988.9767. Limited seating is available.

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

TIKKUN OLAM OPPORTUNITIES 

 

CONTRA COSTA INTERFAITH HOUSING SUMMER HELP

Several opportunities:

- Help run or take charge for one week at an on-site summer camp. Requirement: 2 hours per day for 1 week (Monday thru Thursday). You choose the hours. There is always adult supervision provided.

- Fall Backpack Program. Help coordinate backpacks and supplies over the summer for 120 CCIH students.

- Vegetable Garden Support. We just planted our first vegetable garden and are eager to learn about raising vegetables. Come share your knowledge.

 

For more information or to volunteer, contact Gloria Bertolozzi at [email protected]. 

 

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.

 

FOOD BANK OF 

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

Hunger is year-round battle. A reminder that we have a collection barrel in our lobby which is regularly picked up for distribution for those in need in our community.


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 underwriting the Yahrzeit program.

QUICK LINKS
Beth Chaim Links 
Beth Chaim Mobile
BCC Facebook PageLike us on Facebook
Join Our Mailing List!
A NEW SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

The search committee has been formed and has begun our task of filling the position of our Beit Midrash Principal and B'nei Mitzvah Coordinator. We know that many in our congregation have contacts within the greater Bay Area Jewish community, and we would like to enlist your help spreading the word about this job opportunity with our fabulous Beit Midrash. 

 

Our goal is a smooth and strong transition for this program that is so central to the experience of our member families. If you or someone you know is interested in this position, please review the job description by clicking HERE and submit a resume and cover letter to the Beth Chaim office electronically to [email protected]

 

Please do pass along this job description If you know of qualified individuals, or have contacts who might know such individuals. The position has also been posted on several Jewish organization and educator job search sites.

 

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.

 


IN OUR GARDEN

FREE SEEDLINGS! Our Religious School children planted a lot of seeds during the spring, and many of those seeds have sprouted. If you would like to adopt some seedlings, please come on over to the Temple and pick some up for your garden. There are tomatoes, peas, herbs, kale, and more. The seedlings can be found soaking up the sunshine on the patio just outside the kitchen door. 


NBA FINALS GAME 3! WARRIORS VS. CAVALIERS
Tuesday, June 9, 5:30pmBeth Chaim Sanctuary
The Brotherhood invites everyone to join them in cheering on our Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals as they travel to Cleveland for Game 3. We'll have the big screen for viewing and plenty of pizza, beer and drinks for all. RSVP to Mark Yarkin at [email protected]

BETH CHAIM JEWKULELE CLUB MEETING
Sunday, June 14, 11:00am
Beth Chaim Conference Room
Come join fellow congregants in Beth Chaim's own Jewkulele 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 Frieman at [email protected].

SACRED JEWISH RHYTHMS WORKSHOP
June 15, 29, July 6 and 13, 7:30-9:00pm
Beth Chaim Sanctuary
Note: The first class was held June 1 and newcomers are welcome to join for the remaining classes.
The first session was a rousing success and the class will continue to meet on the above dates. Learn to play and accompany Jewish liturgical music at home, in the synagogue, or under a tree. Instructor Bruce Silverman will highlight traditional middle-eastern rhythms and simple all-purpose rhythms, perfect fror prayer, singing, dancing and playing along with other instruments. Some drums and percussion will be provided. RSVP to the office. Payment can be made in the office or via the PayPal link below.
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MEN'S GATHERING
Thursday, June 18, 7:00pm
Home of Paul Yamshon
We draw upon the wisdom of our tradition for inspiration, listen carefully to others and see what these stories invoke in us. Rabbi Dan facilitates and no one needs to feel compelled to share. Your presence makes this gathering worthwhile and you are invited to bring a friend. No RSVP or prior attendance is necessary.

ROSH CHODESH GATHERING

NOTE DATE CHANGE: Thursday, June 25, 7:00pm
At the Home of Sharon Abrams
Please join us for our Rosh Chodesh Gathering for the month of Tammuz. Sharon Abrams will host this evening and Deborah Wechsler will lead. Be prepared to reflect, share, sing and be surprised in the precious community of the women of Beth Chaim. You don't need to have attended previously to enjoy this gathering. Meet for socializing and light refreshments at 7:00pm; we will begin the program promptly at 7:30pm and end around 9:00pm. 

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 on

going 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

Summer Break! See you in the Fall!

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WOMEN OF THE WALL 

Our Religious School students were featured on the Women of the Wall HaKotel Facebook Page and at the Rabbis for Women of the Wall website. Visit the Facebook page and click HERE for the website to see the pictures and write up.

BEIT MIDRASH YEARBOOKS

There are still a few 2014-15 Beit Midrash Yearbooks available for purchase. Cost is $18 each. 

Contact Alex at [email protected].

 

2015-2015 REGISTRATION

Registration for the 2015-2016 Year is now open. 

Click HERE for registration forms. NOTE: Deadline is July 15th.

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WEEKLY TORAH PORTION VIDEO

We invite you to share this week's video from G-d Cast with your children:
Parshat Shelach Lecha: The Spies and their Confidence Problem
Parshat Shelach Lecha:
The Spies and their
Confidence Problem

SISTERHOOD 
BOOK GROUP
Tuesday, June 16, 7:00pm
Home of Julie Perlman
The selection is The Betrayers by David Bezmozgis. RSVP
to Julie at [email protected]. Hope to see you there!

For more information on Sisterhood contact Sara Goldstein at [email protected] or call 925.366.7272.

BROTHERHOOD
NBA FINALS GAME 3! WARRIORS VS. CAVALIERS

Tuesday, June 9, 5:30pm

Beth Chaim Sanctuary

The Brotherhood invites everyone to join them in cheering on our Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals as they travel to Cleveland for Game 3. We'll have the big screen for viewing and plenty of pizza, beer and drinks for all. Hope to see you there! RSVP to Mark Yarkin at  [email protected].

MEN'S GATHERING

Thursday, June 18, 7:00pm

Home of Paul Yamson
See the top of the Happenings for more information.

ANNUAL JEWISH HERITAGE NIGHT WITH THE A'S

Tuesday, August 4, 7:05 Game

Tickets are now available! $28 per person includes a pregame event with Jewish-themed food and a special memento, as well as the game vs. the Baltimore Orioles. Free parking; BART travel and carpools will also be arranged. Reserve your tickets now! Deadline is July 20th.

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ANOTHER SAVE THE DATE!

Dinner and Bocce Ball Night!!!

Saturday, August 15, 6:00pm

The ever-popular Dinner and Bocce Ball Night returns. Open to spouses/partners and any adult member of Beth Chaim. This event is a lot of fun and no bocce ball experience is needed. Put it on your calendar now! Details to follow!


 

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP
First & Third Thursdays of the month, 5:30-7:00pm
Jewish Family & Children's Services of the East Bay
2484 Shattuck Ave., Suite 210, Berkeley
An opportunity to get to know and support other caregivers while learning how to care for yourself while caring for another, how to manage stress and anxiety, how to establish realist goals and expectations and where to turn in the community for help. The group will be facilitated by Nancy Rothschild, LMFT. Drop ins welcome. $25 per session. For more information, contact Rita Clancy at 510.558.7800, ext. 257 or email [email protected].

PRINCETON REVIEW OFFERS SAT/ACT PREP
The Princeton Review will be offering courses at Beth Chaim this summer. Beth Chaim members receive a $250 discount off the Ultimate and Small Group Courses. Flyers are posted in the foyer with the promo code.

BEING JEWISH IN PARIS NOW
Tuesday, June 16, 7:30pm
BIJ/Or Shalom Jewish Community, 625 Brotherhood Way, San Francisco
A Talk by Rabbi Tom Cohen, Congregation Kehilat Gesher, Paris France. Free admission. RSVP to [email protected] or call 415.469.5564.

LIFE LINE SCREENING AT BETH CHAIM
Monday, June 29
Beth Chaim Sanctuary
Life Line Screening offers preventative health screenings which can detect risk for serious disease. For more information on the screenings, see the flyers in the BCC Lobby or visit www.LifeLineScreening.com/community-partners. Appointments are limited and pre-registration is required. To register for an appointment and receive a $10 discount, call 1.888.653.6450 and mention "Beth Chaim."

SAVE THE DATES!

Camp Newman Grief & Growing Weekend
August 21-23
This is a weekend program for adults, children, teens, families of all kinds, and friends who are experiencing grief from recent or past losses in their life. The weekend is professionally guided by griefcare specialists, providing a supportive Jewish environment where people of all ages and backgrounds can meet and owrk with those who have experienced similar losses. For more information call 415.750.3436 or visit the Jewish Healing Center website.

Cultivating an Awakened Heart: 
A 6-day Jewish Meditation Retreat 
August 17-23, Santa Sabina Center, San Rafael
This retreat will give you the tools and the time to delve inward with contemplative practice, the vehicle of silence and a variety of Jewish mediation approaches. Click HERE for more information.

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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