HAPPENINGS 
October 13, 2015 / 30 Tishrei 5776

Tuesday, Oct. 13            BCC Women Rosh Chodesh Gathering
7:00pm, Home of Fran Birnbaum

Friday, Oct. 16                Shabbat Evening Service
7:30pm, Sanctuary; Led by Drew Porter

Saturday, Oct. 17           A Gentle & Loving Yoga Experience
10:00-11:30am, Sanctuary

SERVICES


All are welcome to come
 celebrate with us.

Friday, October 13
7:30pm

CHESED
Hands

CHESED UPDATE

Zichrona L'vracha
Pam Graves
Our heartfelt condolences go to Patty and Ted Mendelson on the death of Patty's identical twin sister, Pam Graves, on Oct. 3rd.

A celebration of life will be held on Sun., Oct. 18 at 2:00pm at Greenbrook Community Center, 200 Greenbrook Dr., Danville.
The family asks that donation be made in Pam's memory to 42nd Street Moon, San Francisco.
For info and to donate, click HERE.

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If you have Chesed needs or any questions, please contact our Chesed Coordinator, Marc Feder at chesed@bethchaim.com.
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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.

 Visit www.OpenOurHearts.net for the monthly newsletter. 
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.
 
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

cupcake-candle 
 
Kids' Birthdays 

Chloe Weil
12 on October 15
Jaiden Thompson
12 on October 17

Wedding Anniversaries

James & Deanna Zalman
8th Anniversary on Oct. 14
David & Nanette Seltzer
37th Anniversary on Oct. 15
Matt & Robyn Valdivia
10th Anniversary on Oct. 15
Drew & Jill Porter
23rd Anniversary on Oct. 17
Glenn & Julie Samson
25th Anniversary on Oct. 20

 Yahrzeit Observances
Names will be read at the 
Oct. 16th Shabbat Service

Edwin Spainer
Father of Gail Petrek, 10/11
Calvin Zieky
Father of Pam Messing, 10/14
Ora Hed
Wife of Paul Hed, 10/15
Addison Nelson
Father of Laura Ricci, 10/15
Penny Oronsky
Mother of Carl Oronsky, 10/15
Christopher Carter
Brother of Tim Carter, 10/16
Vincent Ricci
Father of Mike Ricci, 10/17

To make a donation in their honor,
 you may call us at 925-736-7146 
or pay via PayPal by 
clicking the button:
 
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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!
NOMINATIONS FOR 2016 BETH CHAIM BOARD OF DIRECTORS

As we reinvent our community in new and unique ways, we seek to engage those among us who would like to have a positive influence on this important process through a leadership position on the 2016 Board of Directors. Membership on the Board enables you to have a direct impact on the way our community operates. Making a contribution of your time in this way can be a meaningful way for you to make a deeper connection with our community. 

Any member interested in serving on our Board next year is invited to contact Nominating Committee Chair Drew Porter at amporter@aol.com.  Any member wishing to put forward the name of another member for nomination is also invited to contact Drew. Drew will be happy to answer any questions about the nominations process, what involvement in the Board entails or to schedule a conversation with the Nominating Committee.
BETH CHAIM 
EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
IN OUR GARDEN Options Options
The garden is cleared and the children have begun to plant their "winter" garden seedlings of spinach, arugula, bok choy, chard, romensco and strawberries. To keep the seedlings cooled, we have them snuggled under shade cloth.
 Options
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CHAVURAH GROUPS ARE FORMING!
If you're interested in joining a chavurah, please CLICK HERE and complete the interest form by Oct 15. Groups are forming now and they are a great way to meet people and build connections with fellow members. Our chavurim are groups of 6-8 families and individuals that come together regularly to celebrate Jewish holidays, learn, or simply socialize and connect with others in the congregation. Click HERE to learn more about BCC chavurim.

YOGA AT BETH CHAIM
Saturdays, 10:00-11:30am
Beth Chaim Sanctuary
Join instructor Jenifer Santer Zetlan for a gentle and loving 
yoga experience in the Beth Chaim Sanctuary. In this yoga series, students will be provided with a step-by-step approach to learning classical yoga postures. The class is FREE of charge and students of all levels are welcome. Bring a yoga mat or towel and wear comfortable clothing. RSVP's are requested for instructor preparation. To RSVP or for questions or more information, call Jenifer at 805.478.0269.

SABBATH: FINDING REST, RENEWAL & DELIGHT IN OUR BUSY LIVES
An Exciting New Class!
5 Tuesdays: Oct. 20, 27 & Nov. 3, 10 & 17, 7:30pm
Beth Chaim Sanctuary
Cost: $60, includes a copy of the book and entrance to the public event on Nov. 17 with the author
Rev. Steve Harms and Rabbi Dan will be co-teaching a class based on the spiritually uplifting book by Wayne Muller. The class will be interactive and engaging and embrace the essence of the book as we seek to explore the depth of this central spiritual practice in both Judaism and Christianity. In the final class on Nov. 17, Steve and Dan will interview and dialogue with the the author and share questions that emerge from the class. Register by clicking the PayPal link below or call email the Office at admin@bethchaim.com. Register early so you can pick up the book and begin reading.

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CHAI MITZVAH PROGRAM
Wednesday, October 21, 7:00pm
Beth Chaim Sanctuary
Last year, 18 people from Beth Chaim participated in this exciting national program of Jewish learning and spiritual engagement and we are beginning another eight-month session in October. The cost for all of the texts, classes and enrichment is only $25. You can get more information and register by going on the Chai Mitzvah website www.ChaiMitzvah.org.

MEN'S GATHERING
Thursday, October 22, 7:00pm
Home of Andy Zetlan
After a summer hiatus, the Men's Gatherings return. (Note that this first meeting will be held on the fourth Thursday of the month, as Rabbi Dan will be out of town the week prior. We will resume meeting on the third Wednesday of each month beginning in November.) We will reflect on the insights gained from the High Holy Days and share our resolutions for the New Year. We draw upon the wisdom of our tradition for inspiration, listen carefully to others, and see what our stories evoke in us. Rabbi Dan facilitates. Your presence makes this gathering worthwhile and you are invited to bring a friend.

BEIT MIDRASH PAMPERED CHEF FUNDFAISER
Sunday, October 25, 4:00-6:00pm
You're invited to experience food, fun and shopping! We'll make a delicious recipe together with some of the hottest Pampered Chef products, and we'll learn cooking tips along the way. Proceeds will benefit our Beit Midrash, so invite your friends! For more information and to RSVP click HERE. Catalogs and order forms are available in the Beth Chaim Office.

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UNDER ONE TENT: 
CONTRA COSTA JEWISH BOOK & ARTS FESTIVAL
The annual festival kicks off on September 29th. For the full line-up, click HERE.

The Healing Power of Humor ... 
You Can't Ruin My Day!
Sunday, November 15, 2:00pm
Reutlinger Community for 
Jewish Living
Award-winning, best-selling author Allen Klein will explore how the Jewish people have used the power of humor to cope with adversity. With laughter and playful exercises, he will show us how to deal with life's not-so-funny stuff. Admission: $10. Co-sponsored by Beth Chaim Congregation.

An Afternoon with Jesse Kellerman,
Author of The Golem of Paris 
and The Golem of Hollywood
Beth Chaim Sanctuary
Sunday, November 22, 3:00pm
We are proud to sponsor this Under One Tent event! Mystery writer Jesse Kellerman takes us into the life of Detective Jacob Lev, the hero of these two suspenseful "whodunits" that are shaped by religious mythology and family secrets that refuse to stay buried. Both books will be available for purchase, courtesy of Rakestraw Books.

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THE GRATITUDE TREE HAS TAKEN ROOT!
Our new piece of art has moved to 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 mark@garetz.com.

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
UPCOMING RELIGIOUS SCHOOL EVENTS
For a list of October Events, click HERE

WED. & THURS., OCT. 14 & 15, 
5:00-6:00PM
Hebrew Power Hour
SUNDAY, OCT. 18
Religious School: 9:15am-12:15pm

SUNDAY, OCT. 25
Religious School: 9:15am-12:15pm

Noah's Surprise, 9:45am
Come see what fun Rabbi Elisheva has planned for us!

Pampered Chef Beit Midrash Fundraiser, 4:00pm
See above for more information or click HERE to RSVP and check out the catalog.

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 CONTRA COSTA MIDRASHA

Meeting
Wednesday, Oct. 14, 7:15-9:15pm
B'nai Tikvah, 25 Hillcroft Way, Walnut Creek

REGISTER FOR THE 2015-16 YEAR
Visit http://shop.midrasha.com to enroll today!

For more information, to get questions answered, or just to say "hi", contact Devra Aarons, CCM's Directory, by phone 925.944.4701, email office@ccmidrasha.com, online at www.ccmidrasha.com, or on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ccmidrasha.

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

 SISTERHOOD

DONATIONS WELCOME
Donation is not a requirement for Sisterhood Membership. However, Sisterhood relies on the volunteerism of its members and annual donations to support events and fund our inter-community programs. We ask that you please consider making an annual donation of $40 to the BCC Sisterhood, if you are able. Donations may be made through the PayPal link below, or via cash or check in the office. Feel free to make a donation while at the Annual Supper and Schmooze, if that is more convenient.

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ROSH CHODESH GATHERING
October 13, 7:00pm
At the Home of Fran Birnbaum
We will meet at 7:00pm for light refreshments and socializing and then begin the program promptly at 7:30pm, led by Deborah Wechsler. We usually end around 9:00pm. You don't need to have attended previously to enjoy this gathering. RSVP to the eVite.

BOOK GROUP
Tuesday, October 20, 7:00pm
Note change of location:
Home of Lynn Chazin
The selection is A Backpack, A Bear and 8 Crates of Vodka by Lev Golinkin. RSVP to Lynn at petlovers61@yahoo.com

CORK & CANVAS
Monday, October 26, 7:00pm
Pinot's Palette, 410 Sycamore Valley Rd. West, Danville
We're popping a few corks, drinking a little vino and putting brush to canvas. Please join your fellow "Sisters" for this fun night out. (No artistic talent required - just a sense of humor!) $39 per person covers all art supplies, wine and tasty bites. A donation of 10% of the proceeds will be given back to BCC.
To RSVP, email bccsisterhood@gmail.com.

OUT-TO-LUNCH GROUP
Wednesday, November 4, 11:45am
All Beth Chaim women are invited for our next lunch gathering at Esin for good food and friendship! RSVP to Janice Frankel at janicefrankel@yahoo.com.

SUPPER AND SCHMOOZE: ANNUAL DINNER
Sunday, November 8, 5:00pm
Gianni's Italian Bistro
2065 San Ramon Valley, Blvd., San Ramon
Please join us for our Annual Sisterhood Dinner to kick-off the new year. It's a great time to reconnect with those whom we haven't seen recently because, well, life is busy; and to welcome new members to our BCC family. $22 per person (includes 3 course meal, tax, tip and wine; cash bar available). Payment may be made in advance through the PayPal link below, cash or check to the office, or at the event by cash or check. RSVP to bccsisterhood@gmail.com. The event email with menu selections, and payment options, is coming to your inbox soon.
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For more information on Sisterhood contact Mary Jo Smith at BCCSisterhood.

BROTHERHOOD
 
JOIN THE BROTHERHOOD, PLEASE!!!
We are now collecting Brotherhood Dues for 2016. Invoices will be mailed soon and voluntary dues are $50 per year. Our funds are used for various Brotherhood activities and to co-sponsor and support Beth Chaim events. You may pay by PayPal by clicking on the link below or by check. Checks should be made payable to Beth Chaim Brotherhood and sent to Mike Murphy, Brotherhood Treasurer, 30 Edinburgh Place, Danville, CA 94626.

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MEN'S GATHERING RESUMES
Thursday, October 22, 7:00pm
Home of Andy Zetlan
Join the Brothers for our monthly Men's Gathering discussion group led by Rabbi Dan. See the top of the Happenings for more information.

20th ANNUAL LAKE TAHOE WINTER GETAWAY
January 28th thru 31st
This is Brotherhood's signature event - Put it on your calendar now! A weekend in Lake Tahoe for the Brothers to spend time together, get to know each other and have fun. All activities are optional and include skiing and snowmobiling (when there is snow!), hiking, gondola ride and lunch at the top of Heavenly, visiting the casinos, hitting the gym, going to the movies, playing cards, catching up on your sleep and just hanging out. Torah study with Rabbi Dan and the Brotherhood Man of the Year Roast are also popular parts of the weekend. 

Total cost for the weekend is $475 double occupancy and $775 for single occupancy at the Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel. Deposit of $250 double or $400 single is due by November 15th and is payable to Beth Chaim Brotherhood, c/o Darrell Davidson, 1575 Harlan Dr., Danville, CA 94526. Final payment is due December 15th.

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

WITNESS OUR WELCOME WORSHIP CELEBRATION
Sunday, October 25, 4:30pm
Lynnewood United Methodist Church
4444 Black Ave., Pleasanton
This worship service celebrates congregations that are open and affirming to the GLBT community. Through music, preaching and fellowship, we'll proclaim, "Love will guide us!" Co-sponsored by Beth Chaim Congregation and over 30 congregations. All are welcome. Call 925.934.4208 with questions.

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 rclancy@jfcs-eastbay.org.

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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