CBI News May 2012

7/31/2019 CBI News May 2012

1/16

Iyyar/Sivan 5772 | May 2012

A nondenominational synagogue center serving the Jewish community in the greater Chico area.

CongregationBeth Israel News

Shavuot: a holiday of myriad dimensions. Its

the lightning, thunder, and awesome solemnity

of the Revelation at Sinai, the single most

significant event in Jewish history. Its the quiet

intensity of a group of Torah scholars learning

deep into the night to reveal yet another layer of

Gods teaching.

Shavuot is also the full bloom of early summer,

the radiance of harvest time in Israelharvest

of wheat and the first fruits of the season. Its

the glorious pilgrimage to ancient Jerusalem andthe joyful contemporary harvest celebrations in

Israels kibbutzimandmoshavim.

Its an extraordinary story of love and devotion:

Wherever you go, I will goyour people will

be my people, your God my God (Ruth 1:16).

Ruth, the first Jew-by-choice, and an eternal

symbol of loyalty.

Shavuot is a synagogue alive with greenery. Its

a mystical day of milk and honey that has even

been described as a marriage between God

and the people Israel.

It also happens to be one of the most neglectedJewish holidays.

The average American Jew is much more

likely to light candles for Hanukkah than to

participate in any kind of Shavuot observance.

This despite the fact that Shavuot is a far more

major holidayone of the three pilgrimage

festivals from the Torah (in addition to Passover

and Sukkot). Why? Sociologists have shown

that as American Jews, we tend to favor

holidays and rituals that are child-centered

and provide a Jewish alternative to popular

seasonal celebrations. It helps if they can also

be reinterpreted to reinforce universal American

values like freedom and religious liberty, and

if they have concrete symbols and rituals.

Hanukkah is the perfect examples. Shavuot,

on the other hand, remains rather abstract and

particularistic, and to top it off, often arrives at

the beginning of summer vacation. Hence, it

tends to be neglected.

But without Shavuot, the dramatic liberation of

Passover would have merely let us out to wanderin the desert. Shavuot represents the giving of

the Torah, our acceptance of the covenant that

has shaped our peoples destiny, making us aspire

to be a light unto the nations.

Although it lacks a concrete symbol like the

menorah, sukkah, or Seder meal, Shavuot does

have beautiful traditions. It is customary to

study Torah all night on the eve of the holiday.

The synagogue is decorated with greenery and

flowers, to remember that Mt. Sinai bloomed

as the Torah was given, and in many synagogues

as well as Israeli kibbutzim the children wear

wreaths of flowers and carry baskets to

symbolize the bikurim, first fruits brought to

the Temple in ancient times. Dairy products are

eaten to symbolize that the Torah is like milk

and honey. Because receiving the Torah affirms

Jewish identity, it is a special day to read the book

of Ruth, to honor Jews-by-choice, and also the

season to hold the Confirmation ceremony

for teens. Finally, in some North African

communities children engaged in water play on

Shavuot because life-giving water is a symbol of

the Torah.

This year, you can break the mold and celebrate

Shavuot with CBI! We will have three special

events related to Shavuot. On the Shabbat

morning that falls on the holiday eve (May 26),

we will bless our newest Jews-by-Choice. That

evening, you are invited to join Avraham and me

as we welcome the holiday in our home with a

Torah study and social hour. And on Shavuotmorning, Sunday, May 27, in keeping with the

nature theme of the festival, well meet at Bidwel

Park for a holiday outing that combines learning,

fun, food, and friends! Pick the program that

interests you and I look forward to seeing you on

Shavuot, the festival of Revelation.

(Part of this column is adapted from The Jewish Parents

Almanac by Rabbi Danan).

MAY AT-A-GLANCE

Beginning HebrewThursday, May 3, 10, 176:30 p.m. at CBI

Bat Mitzvah of Liron ArielyFriday, May 4, at 7:30 p.m. and

Saturday, May 5, 10 a.m. at CBI

Israel Fair (in Honor of LironAri ely s Bat Mitzvah)Saturday, May 5, follows Bat Mitzvah

service at CBI

Tai Chi Chih with Carol WongSunday, May 6, 13, 20, 27

2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. at CBI

Menchkins Lag BOmer PicnicSunday, May 6 , 11 a.m. at Wildwood

Park

CBI Book GroupSunday, May 6, 2-4 p.m.at the Schiffmans

Lag BaOmer Celebration &PotluckThursday, May 10, 6 p.m. at the home of

Sam and Carol Edelman

8 Falcons Pointe Drive. RSVP to Carol

Edelman at 345-3974 or cedelman@

csuchico.edu Please bring a vegetarian

or dairy dish to share

Bat Mitzvah of Emma CardenFriday, May 11 7:30 p.m. and

Saturday, May 12, 10 a.m. at CBI

Last Day of Shul School

Tuesday, May 15

Enjoy Shabbat at Home,No ServiceFriday, May 18

Neshama Yoga with Lance Ferrisand Rabbi DananSaturday, May 19, 10:30 a.m. at CBI

In honor of the upcoming holiday of

Shavuot the theme will be Revelation

and Inspiration. Dress comfortably,

bring a yoga mat and/or beach towel,

and bring a meatless dish to share for

the Kiddush afterwards

Shul School End-of-Year PartyTuesday, May 22

Kabbalat Shabbat with SpecialTalkFriday, May 25, 7:30 p.m. at CBI

Loretta Steinke speaks on The Making

of a Chaplain

Torah Service and Blessing ourNewest Jews-by-ChoiceSaturday, May 26, 10 a.m. at CBI

Tikkun Leil Shavuot (Late NightTorah Study)Saturday, May 26, 9 p.m. at the Danans

196 East 2nd Avenue

Shavout PicnicSunday, May 27, 11 a.m. at Five Mile

Nature walk, games, water play and

a reading of The 10 Commandments

Shavuot: The Giving of the TorahBy Rabbi Dr. Julie Hilton Danan

7/31/2019 CBI News May 2012

2/16

2 | www.cb ichico .org

Congregation Beth Israel PO Box 3266

1336 Hemlock St. Chico, CA 95927

Ph: 530-342-6146 Fax: 530-342-0278

www.cbichico.org

Executive BoardPresident ......................................... ........................... David Zeichick

Vice President/Capital Campaign .............................David HalimiVice President/Bldg. and Grounds ....................Michael MulcahyVice President/Membership .................................. Kristy BergsonPast President ..............................................................Irv Schiffman

Treasurer ........................................ ................................ Stan GottliebSecretary .....................................................................Jona PressmanSisterhood President ..................................................... Sue Mintzes

Committee ChairsBuilding and Grounds .....................................Marshall ThompsonCommunication ................................. Gabrielle & David T. GreenFundraising .................................................................Karen RogersShul School .................................................................Steve NaimanRitual ..............................................................................Keren Carter

Tikkun Olam/Social Action .......................................Phyllis CullenSocial and Cultural ......................... .................... Donna GreenbergSunshine and Mitzvot ................................... ...........Loretta SteinkeMember-at-Large .......................................... .......... David BermannMember-at-Large ....................................................... Elisa KleimanMembers-at-Large ............. Helene Ginsberg & Andrew Sabersky

NewsletterEditor ........................................... .......................... Gabrielle GreenDesigner ......................................................................Carla ResnickPhotographer ......................................................... Dave BermannPhotographer .................................................... Chaim RappaportCBI Voices Contributor ........................ ......... Charles GeshekterCBI Guest Columnist ................................................ Robin BlackCopy Editor ............ ........................................... ........... Frann BartCopy Editor ............ ........................................... ........ Nelda JesseeMailing ........................................................... Ingeborg Johannsen

CBI Office HoursTuesday, Wednesday, Friday from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m.

Administrative Assistant: Liz Bohn

Phone: 530-342-6146

email: [email protected]

CBI Newsletter Editor: Gabrielle Green

Phone: 530-514-7311

email: [email protected]

please copy (cc): [email protected]

Deadline for submissions is the 10th of the month prior.

From the EditorWe celebrate two Bat Mitzvahs at CBIthis month, Liron Ariely on May 5th andEmma Carden on May 12th. You havemet both these Bnai Mitzvah students inprevious issues where they talked abouttheir Mitzvah projects. Just before the

deadline for this issue I gave them each a choiceof questions to answer and here are the questions they selectedand their answers:

Liron Ariely

Question: How have you prepared foryour Bat Mitzvah and what are yourthoughts and feelings about this effort?

Answer: When I was preparing for myBat Mitzvah, I went to work with AvrahamDanan to learn to read from the Torah ina Sephardic version and melody. I used arecorded CD to work on it at home. I have

a few famous songs in my Haftorah, so I practiced it with one ofmy sisters and with my mom. It made things much easier and Ihad less to learn from the Haftorah. The rest of the Haftorah iseasier to learn as a song. I look forward to seeing everyone at myBat Mitzvah and I hope they enjoy my song.

Emma Carden

Question: What does your Bat Mitzvahmean to your family and friends? Whatdoes it mean to you?

Answer: My whole family is superexcited and driving nine hours to seeme. My friends are really excited as well

because they have never been to one. Iam really excited, and have been literallylooking forward to this my whole life,at least since I started Hebrew School. Please join me on thisspecial day.

Also in this issuewe have wonderfulreflections on the recentPassover holiday. I highlyrecommend you readCharles Geshekterscontribution thatbeautifully ties togetherthe generations withinhis family. And our ShulSchool section delivers atastey review of their very own Chocolate Seder.

Thank you to Robin Black who put together a thoughtfulreview of the recent Taharah training held at CBI. This issuch a rich resource we are able to offer the CBI Community.I hope the article peaks your interest to learn more about thismeaningful mitzah and group.

Till June!

CongregationBeth Israel News

Gabrielle Green

7/31/2019 CBI News May 2012

3/16

www.cb ichico .org | 3

May CelebrationsExperienceLag BaOmer and Shavuot: The Holiday of Giving the Torah with CBIIn honor of Shavuot the festival of the

giving of the Torah, we will have a threepart celebration! And dont forget LaBag Omer a t the Edelmans. Details arebelow.

Lag BaOmer Barbecue at the

Edelmans

Thursday, May 10, 6 p.m.

Home of Sam and Carol Edelmanhome, 8 Falcons Pointe Drive

Bring a dairy-free dish to share

The congregation is invited to enjoythe outdoor holiday of Lag BaOmer,

Thursday, May 10, 6 p.m. at the home ofSam and Carol Edelman home, 8 FalconsPointe Drive. Please bring a meatless or

vegetarian dish to share for the potluck

meal. Well have a kumsitz and roastpotatoes in the firepit, and kids andadults are welcome to bring swimsuitsand towels to use the pool.

Lag BaOmer is a minor holiday, literallythe 33rd Day of counting the Omer,the seven weeks between Passover andShavuot. It is a day to recall the historyof Jews who fought Rome and preserved

Judaism in the f irst and second centuries.Outdoor picnics and bonfires arecustoms of the day.

Your RSVP to Carol Edelman wil lbe greatly appreciated so that theycan purchase enough food: 345-3974,[email protected].

I. Saturday, May 26, 10 a.m.

Shabbat services, the Eve of Shavuot

Blessing our Newest Jews-by-Choice

On Shavuot, we read the book ofRuth, the first Jew-by-choice, and it is

traditional to honor converts to Judaism.At this Shabbat service, just prior toShavuot, we will welcome and bless ournewest Jews by choice, who will also behonored at our Kiddush after the service.

The synagogue wi ll be decorated withflowers and fruit baskets in honor of theholiday. Contact Donna Greenberg ifyou can help with the kiddush in honorof our newest Jews-by-Choice.

II. Saturday, May 26

9 p.m. at the Danans, 196 E. 2nd Ave

Welcome the Festival and Tikkun LeilShavuot (Late Night Torah Study)

We will light the candles, make thefestival Kiddush and enjoy a holidaydessert at the Danans as we observe thecustom of Tikkun Leil Shavuot, latenight Torah study. It is customary to s tayup learning Torah all night on the eve ofShavuot! Well be content to study foran hour or so, while enjoying challah andtraditional holiday desserts (cheesecakeand fruit). Our topic will be the biblical

book of Ruth. RSVP to Rabbi Danan,342-6146, [email protected] (andlet her know if you can help with thedessert).

III. Sunday, May 27

11 a.m. at Bidwell Park Five Mile PicnicArea (Weather-permitting)ShavuotActivities & Picnic for All Ages

Meet at Five Mile for a nature walk,

Torah game, water play, hol iday picnicand socializing! The Torah was givenin the out-of-doors and well celebratethe festival morning outside with ashort nature walk led by the Millers,areading of the 10 commandments and10 Commandments Game led byRabbi Danan, followed by a holidaypicnic lunch in the picnic area at FiveMile. Please bring a meatless dish toshare. Traditional foods for Shavuotinclude dairy products such as blintzes,cheesecake, cheeses, or cheese enchiladas

(at least the rabbi remembers that fromSouth Texas). CBI will provide drinksand paper goods (or you can tote yourown dishes and help the environment).

Wheat products, fruit and salads arealso welcome to represent the summerharvest in Israel. Onereason for eatingdairy products at this holiday is that the

Torah i s compared to milk and honey.After lunch, the kids can enjoy water play(supervised by parents), since the Torahis compared to life-giving water, so dressappropriately and bring your favorite

water toys. RSVP to the CBI offi ce tohelp us plan!

Another Great Tour Of Israel Is Coming Up In March 2013!Two full weeks of touring north to south historicand new locations. We will enjoy the best season ofthe year for wildflowers, visits to outdoors sites andmarkets. Staying at 4 & 5 star Hotels that includebreakfast and dinner everyday. A bus and localguide will take care of us in the best way possible!The itinerary is in the works This tour is createdespecially for our community and space is limited for22. Ask fellow members who have traveled with us forfor their impressions. We will be back in Chico in timefor Passover! For information please contact NitsaSchiffman at 343-7108, [email protected].

7/31/2019 CBI News May 2012

4/16


DavidZeichick

Making $ense of CBI

From Our PresidentYour CBI Security Committee met this last month and created apriority list of projects. We are graciously accepting sponsors forany of the projects.

Priority List

1. Trim trees and shrubs - $75 Michael will performthis work

2. Secure doors - total of $550front doors $200metal stripstake out old deadbolts and plugging holes inorder to install reinforcement plates next todeadbolts

3. Paint doorskitchen dead bolt - $35hallway dead bolt - $35 labor for both $30

Dear CBI Congregants,Just as Paul Salman from theNewshour is helping us makesense of the economic news onthe national level, CBI FinanceCommittee is ready to help us see at-a-glance where our money is goingand how we can better keep track of

the expenditures at CBI.The Finance Committee is ready toput in place an online database withspecific budgets for our events tobe tracked by each chairperson. Wehope using technology to share thereal costs of our programs withthe congregation will help us tocontinue having the programs wevalue at a cost we can afford.

Fortunately, we heeded Josephsdream and in the good yearswe saved a little money for leantimes. However, since 2008, wehave had to tap into our reserves formore than $20,000 dollars and thereserves have run dry. Suffice it tosay, we cannot continue to depletethe general fund that pays for the

most important expenditure, that ofour rabbi.We are so very fortunate that whenher contract came up for renewalthis year, our outstanding rabbispecifically asked us not to give hera raise in salary because she knowsthat so many of our members are

experiencing financial challengesin these difficult times. However,we are at the point where our

rabbis health insurance (previouslyfunded by a small circle of donorswho pledged $1000 per year aboveand beyond their dues) needs tobe paid through our general fund.Membership dues support thegeneral fund and in order to do so,

we need to raise our annual dues forthe next fiscal year to support theseexpenses.In order to address our financial

challenges, a member of ourcommittee will be contactingyou personally to discuss yourmembership contribution to the

general fund and any volunteeroptions to help CBI. A few peoplehave been carrying the ball for somany years to keep the congregationafloat, we take this opportunityto thank you for your generouscontributions and assure you thatmore members are being asked tohelp.We will continue financial updatesin the newsletter to keep youinformed. Our next meeting isin May and we will be discussingthe membership dues structure inaddition to discussing marketingcampaigns to appeal to potentialmembers.Respectfully yours,CBI Finance Committee

4. Front gateframe in to create a wall $100use a real entry way door $150

5. Back gateno cost, already have materials

6. Add Eagle Security signs on fences

(no cost)7. Motion sensor lights $2003 solar powered lights, one on each tall tree(about $50 per light = $150)

one electric powered, hang on tree with electricalbox $50

8. Security training session for board members(hopefully no cost)

9. Cameras $500 - $2,000

7/31/2019 CBI News May 2012

5/16


Haverot HappeningsSue Mintzes, Haverot President

The long-awaited cookbook has finally been publishedloaded with delectable recipes from Haverot present andpast. If you have not already bought several at the bargainprice of fifteen dollars each, just contact me. You wont seethese recipes anywhere else! Since this cookbook was some

thirty years in the making, I can only thank the most recenteditors Sue Cottrell, Nelda Jessee, and Fran Halimi andthe person who reformatted every page and was ultimatelyresponsible for the publicationRene Everett. When youbuy a cookbook, you are directly supporting CBI projects.Now that we have a cookbook, the Haverot board wantsCBI members to be able to bake in our kitchen with a new

wall oven and stove. (FYI the wall oven does not work andthe stove does not keep the temperature accurately.) We canupgrade our appliances when you support this fundraiser.

And speaking of funding, I will have a full accounting

of the Bagel Brunch in the next newsletter, thanking allwho made it possible and letting the congregation knowhow much we were able to contribute to the Gert LernerCamperships. As I write this article, I am still deliveringposters around town hoping for a good turnout with nice

weather.

We are continuing our Tai Chi Chih classes each Sundayafternoon throughJune 3 at 2:30 p.m. at CBI. Personally, Ifind the classes relaxing and energizing and I am changingmy daily routine. Thanks again, Carol Wong!

We are already thinking of next year and we have two

Member-at-Large positions to fill on our board. Bev Paullhas served for many years as president, past president andmember-at-large and has agreed to help with events, but

wants to leave the board. Thank you, Bev for your service.Loretta Steinke has taken on the Shamasheet position and

will continue as Sunshine and Mitzvot jointly throughHaverot and the Congregation. We know we can still counton Loretta to help, but understand her need to step downfrom her many years on the board. Thank you, Loretta.Board members meet monthly to decide which programs tooffer and how we use our funds. We are particularly lookingfor someone who is interested in Social Action, but welcomeany Haverot member regardless of interest and expertise.

We need you! Contact me if you are interested.

Put the end-of-year potluck dinner (maybe with someof these recipes from the cookbook) on June 4 on yourcalendar. Eddi Deromedi is generously making her homeavailable for this wonderful evening. Of course, an evite willfollow with details. We want you to come and celebrate a

very productive Haverot year with us.

Shalom, Sue

Its Here! The First Edition of the Haverot

Cookbook:Whats Cooking in Chico?

To nd out how to purchase contact the CBI Ofce: call

342-6146 or email [email protected]

A recipe from the Community Seder:

Compliments of Blush Catering

Almond-Coconut TrufflesIngredients:

12 oz. semi sweet chocolate chips (makesure theyre dairy free)1 cup almond butter

1/4 cup coconut milk(not the lightkind...cmon...coconut fat is sumptuous anddelicious)1 tsp. vanilla

1/2 cup cocoa powder or raw cacao

1. In a mixer, combine the almond butter and the vanilla, andstir until well blended.

2. In a double boiler, melt the chocolate chips and coconutmilk over medium heat, stirring until smooth and well

combined.3. Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the almond buttermixture and mix until all that almond butter is meshedwith the chocolatey, coconut milky yumminess.

4. Allow to cool or a ew minutes, roll into balls, 1 inchin diameter and place on a baking sheet lined withparchment. Rerigerate or 15 minutes or so until rm (youmay actually be able to skip this step i theyre rm enoughat this point). Roll the little bally wallys in cocoa powderand youll have yoursel just about the easiest little treatyour heart could want. Enjoy!

7/31/2019 CBI News May 2012

6/16


All About the Tahara Training at CBIGuest article contributed by CBI Member Robin Black

On March 11 our CBI Hevra Kaddisha(Jewish burial society) and other membersof the community learned about thecustoms in Judaism surrounding theend-of-life cycles. In Judaism, this is a

very sacred time. TheTaharah, literallypurification, process combines washingthe body, dressing the deceased in shrouds,and offering blessings with liturgy thatcomforts our souls and guides us tothe next transition. At the TaharahTraining session, we simulatedthe process with the help of a livevolunteer. As one attendee said, Itwas emotionally touching to see the

dignity, respect, the atmosphere ofsilence, and attention to detail. This isreally amazing that this is happeninghere in Chico.Keren Carter did a presentation

on how we pay respect to ourdeceased, not only at the funeralbut throughout the first year. Thedeceased is then remembered againannually on their Yartzeit (anniversary of

passing) as well as at Yizkor (memorial)services. Judaism helps us not only toprepare the body of the deceased, but ateam of community volunteers with theHevra Kaddisha also sit act as shomrim,reading psalms and watching over thebody.Our two guest presenters from the Bay

Area, Rabbi Meirah Iliinsky and PeterStrauss, came with a wealth of experienceand knowledge. They shared with ustheir insights in these Jewish rituals in aninspirational presentation. Contents ofthe training included learning the context

and the meaning of the prayers, andhelping participants grasp the profundityof this great mitzvah. Before we beganthe training, we had an open discussionof what the liturgy was saying in English

to better understand each step andcomprehend its spiritual meaning. Anexample of the beautiful prayers offeredby the Taharah Team is this one offeredprior to the ritual:

The teaching then went through thesequences of special preparation: bothphysically with supplies, and mentally toclear our minds before starting the ritualwashing. We ask for forgiveness from themeit(the deceased), for any indignity orerror we may cause during the Taharah.We practiced a dry run of how theTaharah team simulates a mikvehor ritualbath by pouring water over the meit, whileusing special wooden boards to raise thebody off the table. We learned details of

dressing the deceased, tying the specialknots with the garments, wrapping thedeceased in a tallit (if appropriate) and

placing in the casket. We are especiallygrateful to Mark Brusie of Brusie FuneralHome who attended the program andhelped with the supplies.History of Our Group

The Hevra Kaddisha, (literally a HolySociety) formed at CBI approximatelythree years ago and has been workingto provide shemirah(watching over thebody), assist at shiva(week of mourning

in the home), educate the community,set policies, and recently did itsfirst full taharah(ritual washing andpreparation for burial). Keren Carterand Sharon Kaplan traveled to a Bay

Area conference sponsored by KavodvNichum (Honor and Comfort),an organization that helps manyHevra Kaddisha groups to form andprovides networking, and learning.I participated in a 13-week webinar

course this winter, presented byGamliel Institute with teachers DavidZinner and Rabbi Stuart Kelman. The

in-depth course, titled Taharah Rituals,

included personal experiences and stories,biblical texts, explanations of early burialsocieties, Talmudic passages, liturgy, andrituals. Our Chico workshop trainers,Rabbi Meirah Iliinsky and Peter Strauss,were among my classmates.The work of the Hevra Kaddishais a holy mitzvah that involves manycomponents: honoring the deceased,caring for the body, supporting thesurvivors, and educating the community.If you would like to be involved in anypart of this mitzvah, contact Keren Carteror Sharon Kaplan to join the group.

DefinitionsHevra Kaddisha: Jewish burial group would ormed within a region.Taharah: Jewish spiritual washing and purication ceremony o the the deceased.Shemirah: Reading psalms or passages to protect or guard the the soul o the deceased prior to burial.

7/31/2019 CBI News May 2012

7/16


CBI Voices Guest Column by CBI member (and former President) Charles GeshekterWhy Was This Passover Different From All Others?

I was raised in an Orthodox Jewish home in Baltimore and was

in the same 5th & 6th grade classes as Barry Levinson. The Seders

in my home resembled a memorable scene in Levinsons film,

Avalon, where the main Seder table was extended with several card

tables to accommodate all the kids.

Our Seders were full of witty commentaries on the world, plentyof wine, arcane discussions about the real meaning of Jewish

customs, ample gaiety, and robust singing.

After pouring Elijahs cup of wine, we kids opened the front

door for the Prophets arrival. My grandmother, Goldie Wolfe

(1887-1970), would bitterly recall Seders in Moscow as a child

when non-Jews used the open door as an occasion to shove goats

into their home. We winced at hearing that story anew.

Family regulars would teasingly judge my grandmothers fiery

horseradish: Not bad, Goldie,

but last years was much hotter.Then like a flash - 1952 became

2012. Sixty years had passed.

This year, I was in Washington,

D.C. for Passover, visiting my

son Eric (Bar Mitzvah at CBI

in 1987), his wife Lily and their

precious daughter Rose, my first

grandchild.

Born on New Years Eve 2010,

she is named after my mom Rose Geshekter (1911-1993). I sayproudly: I am the son of Rose Geshekter and the grandpa of

Rose Geshekter.

Next year, Rose enters the pre-school affiliated with a

conservative synagogue in D.C. Adas Israel.

While in D.C the week before Passover, I attended Shabbat

services at a famous modern Orthodox shul, Kesher Israel in

Georgetown. The 100-year old synagogue accommodates 250

people in a compact, impressively designed sanctuary. Its regular

members include Herman Wouk, Leon Wieseltier, and Senator Joe

Lieberman.Now in his late 50s, Rabbi Barry Freundel is a stellar, widely-

published halakhicscholar who always provides a stimulating

darash. When I casually asked Eric if hed like to join me there for

Shabbat services during Passover, he agreed. He proudly wore his

CBI Bar Mitzvah tallitandyarmulke.

The Shabbat morning service on Passover required that two

Torahs be unscrolled. The main Shabbat reading, containing part

of the story of the exodus from Egypt, came from one Torah

scroll, while the short maftir aliyah, which

details the sacrifices brought to the Temple

on Passover, was read from a different

scroll.

Rabbi Freundel delivered a lucid analysis

of the changing nature of Seders over the

past 1500 years, suggesting that a century from now there mightbe subtle, additional changes that no one today can anticipate.

The changing structure and formats of Seders yet to come? Tha

idea provided the segue to the Seder we celebrated that evening

which made this Passover, for me, different than any other.

Eric, Lily, Rosie Rose, and I had reservations for a Seder meal

at a restaurant called Dinos, run by an Italian Jew. A short walk

from their apartment, we were shown to our table at 5:30, and

noticed others set up for various-sized Seders. We remained

uncertain how this restaurant Seder would proceed.

The waiter brought us the Seder plate, a bottle of wine, and aplate of matzahs. Thereafter, we were on our own. Eric brought

three basic Haggadahs and led our Seder as we took turns

reading, chatting, pouring glasses of wine, partaking of the

symbolic items displayed on the Seder plate, then came the main

meal.

They brought mounds of roast lamb and chicken,gefiltefish,

farfel, matzahball soup, chopped liver, multiple condiments, and

finally desserts that we followed with closing prayers and songs.

It was an outstanding festive meal.

Attending her first Seder, Rose was pure delight, carefullyobserving us, eating bits of food that Lily provided, and

discovering true Seder joy by breaking off the easily crackable

matzahs on her highchair tray, and having fun.

Each table conducted a separate Seder at its own pace. A

ribald party of eight seated nearby started before us, consumed

impressive quantities of wine, and by the time we ate dessert they

were singing decidedly non-Pesach songs.

We returned to the apartment, Rose got a quick bath, and

zonked out.

My Passover Shabbat 2012 had included modern shulOrthodoxy in the morning and nourishing reforms at the

evening Seder.

Ive had Seders with a grandmother born in the 1880s. Ive now

had Seder with my granddaughter whos likely to enjoy Seders in

the 2080s.

Through Seders, I reach way back in time, then gaze far ahead

it spans 200 years.

Lashanah habaah biYerushalayim!

Charles Geshekter

Rose Geshekter, the newest

7/31/2019 CBI News May 2012

8/16


Shabbat & Holiday Services for MayCBI celebrates Kabbalat Shabbat on Fridays at 7:30 p.m., often accompanied by instrumental music, except for the first Fridayof the month when we usually have an early Mishpachah (Family) Shabbat during the school year. Our Mishpachah tradition willresume in the fall of 2012. We conclude Kabbalat Shabbat with an Oneg Shabbat. Shabbat Saturday morning services generallybegin with a brief guided meditation. The first hour of the service consists of prayer; the second hour is a Torah reading and aTorah study. About noon we have a Kiddush and socialize over a light lunch.

Thanks to the Confirmation Class Parents, the Schiffmans, Harriet Spiegel and Beverly Erdos for providing Oneg Shabbats andKiddushes in April.

Call Betty Senseman, 345-7727, to schedule your Oneg or Kiddush. To celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or any special eventwith the community, please provide a Friday night Oneg or a Saturday Kiddush this year.

Preferably make and serve it yourself, or alternately make a donation of $25 (Saturday Kiddush, $50), and well find a volunteeto prepare it.

Friday May 4

Light Candles at 7:46 p.m.

7:30 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat led by Liron Ariely.

Oneg provided by the Ariely Family.

Saturday, May 5 10 a.m. Bat Mitzvah of Liron Ariely

Kiddush lunch sponsored by the Ariely Family,followed by an Israel Fair

Parashat Kedoshim

Thursday, May 10 6 p.m. Lag BaOmer Potluck at the Edelmans, 8 FalconsPointe Dr. RSVP to Carol Edelman, [email protected]

Friday, May 11

Light Candles at 7:53 p.m.

7:30 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat led by Emma Carden.

Oneg provided by the Carden Family.

Saturday, May 12 10 a.m. Bat Mitzvah of Emma Carden.Kiddush Lunch sponsored by the Carden Family.Parashat Emor

Friday, May 18

Light Candles at 8 p.m.

NO Service Enjoy Shabbat at Home.

Saturday, May 19 10:30 a.m. Neshama Yoga with Lance Ferris and Rabbi Danan.The theme is Inspiration. Dress comfortably, bring ayoga mat and a dish to share for the POTLUCK

Friday, May 25

Light Candles at 8:06p.m.

7:30 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat. Sadie Pressman coleads. CBImember Loretta Steinke speaks on The Making ofa Chaplain. based on her recent experiences taking

a chaplaincy Clinical Pastoral Education Course inSacramento.

Oneg TBA

Parashat Behar-Behukotai

Saturday, May 26 10 a.m.

9 p.m.

Torah Service and Blessing of our newest Jews-by-Choice. Kiddush provided by CBI members inhonor of our newest Jews-by-Choice. Contact DonnaGreenberg to help!

Welcome Shavuot with Dessert and Torah Study (Bookof Ruth) at the Danans. RSVP [email protected]

Sunday, May 27 11 a.m. Bidwell Park 5-Mile Picnic Area.

Shavuot Activities & Picnic for all ages! Bring aholiday dish to share.

7/31/2019 CBI News May 2012

9/16


2 9 3 0 1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 1 0 1 1 1 2

1 3 1 4 1 5 1 6 1 7 1 8 1 9

2 0 2 1 2 2 2 3 2 4 2 5 2 6

2 7 2 8 2 9 3 0 3 1 1 2

Sun M o n Tue Wed Thu F r i Sat

10 a.m. 1 p.m.SisterhoodBagel Brunch

SacramentoIsrael Festival

Teen Adventure

Program inSacramento

3:30 p.m. ShulSchool

6:30 p.m. MahJongg

4:15 p.m.ConversationalHebrew

6:30 p.m.BeginningHebrew for

adults

7:30 p.m.KabbalatShabbat

7:47 p.m.Candle lighting

10 a.m. TorahService

2 p.m.Tai Chi Chih

2 p.m. CBIBook Group atthe Schiffmanhome

3:30 p.m.Shul School

6:30 p.m. MahJongg


6:30 p.m.BeginningHebrew foradults



10 a.m. BatMitzvah ofEmma Carden

2 p.m.Tai Chi Chih


6:30 p.m. MahJongg

11 a.m. BrunchBunch atNashs on theEsplanade

7 p.m. CBIExecutive BoardMeeting

6:30 p.m.BeginningHebrew foradults

8 p.m.Candle lighting

NO ServiceEnjoy Shabbatat Home

10:30 a.m.Neshamah Yoga


6:30 p.m. MahJongg



7:30 p.mKabbalatShabbat


9 p.m. Dessert& Torah Studyat the Danans

11 a.m.Picnic andShavuot Eventat 5 Mile

6:30 p.m. MahJongg





10 a.m. BatMitzvahof SadiePressman

CBI Calendar May 2012 Iyyar/Sivan 5772

7/31/2019 CBI News May 2012

10/16


Pesach Festivities - Matzah Factory

In preparation for Passover, the Shul School students had the funexperience of making matzah. The ingredients are simple. Flourand water, maybe a pinch of salt. The process is simple. Mix, roll,prick, and bake. The challenge, however is to do all of this in lessthan 18 minutes. From the moment the water hits the flour, thebakers are working diligently to form the dough, keep it fromsticking to everything, rolling it out paper thin, transferring it toa baking sheet, and popping it in the oven. Sounds easy enough,but when the timer is going, a bit of panic sets in! Why under 18minutes?

QUIZ TIME

First Shul School student to

email me the answer to that

question (why does matzah

need to be made in under 18

minutes) will get a prize!

Pesach Festivities Chocolate Seder (Seriously)

After all of us enjoyed at

least one traditional seder, ourstudents experienced their firstShul School chocolate seder.

This festivity is a growingtrend in the world of Jewisheducation. The Shul Schoolstaff decided it was importantto include this fantastic eventfor our children if for no otherreason than cultural literacy.

Each item on the seder plate is represented by some delectableconfection. For instance, a gummy worm is the shank bone, green

jelly beans are the lettuce, and a chocolate egg is theyou got it,the egg. As a representation of spring, the parsley is traded outfor a strawberry dipped not in salt water, but the mud of spring:chocolate. The bitter herb is the most difficult form of chocolateyou can think of: completely unsweetened. Wow, Ive never seensuch shocked and puckered faces! Our version of charoset, thesweet apple and nut mixture, was a small dab of chocolate puddingand marshmallow crme. With this we were able to create our ownHillel sandwiches, matzah smores. Of course our matzah waschocolate matzah and our four cups were filled with chocolatemilk. It is also fashionable to put an orange on the seder plate, toacknowledge womens tremendous contributions to Judaism. Tomodel this tradition, one small tangerine jelly belly was on our

chocolate seder plate.Now of course, the educational goal of this activity is to engage

the students in this very important Jewish holiday. Our hope was tobridge the learning by way of using exceptional learning aides. Asyou can imagine, interest all around the table was piqued!

As decadent as this activity sounds, we were committed to keepingall the portions small, even down to tiny Dixie sized cups half full

with half-strength chocolate milk. But it was an extravagant dessertfeast. As such, we talked about how blessed we are to enjoy thissymbolic treat when many are much less fortunate than we.

Todah Rabah

Thank you to Chaim Rappaort and RonitAriely for providing support during thematzah making and chocolate seder. Weespecially appreciate all the help you didon the clean up! Thank you to Rabbi Juliefor leading our chocolate seder and to KerenCarter for providing the chocolate seder Haggadah.

Thank you to the Bnai Mitzvah class families for providing awonderful Kiddush in March.

A huge thank you goes out to everyone who helped make thelast Dont Cook Tonight fundraiser a success. We had lots of help

with cooking. In particular thank you to Fran Halimi for the babaganoush, Nitsa Shiffman for the tabouleh, and Rene Everett forthe hummus. Steve Naiman prepared the falafels and greetedpeople as they arrived. Thank you to Rene and Chaim for all theset-up and additional food preparations. Rene has helped withevery Dont Cook Tonight Dinner this year and we would not havebeen able to pull it off without her. THANK YOU RENE! Ourthree dinners brought in nearly $1,500! And finally, Chaim and I

thank you all for jumping in and helping out when things got a bitchallenging and hectic, to say the least. You all know who you are.

What a beautiful thing to feel a community jump up and supportyou from every direction when you need it. We love our Jewishcommunity!

Shul School Wraps up for the Year

Our last day of instruction is Tuesday, May 15. Our end-of-the-year party will be on Tuesday, May 22. Details about this event willbe sent out soon via email.

Mazel Tov to April Quiz Winners!

Our quiz winners for April were Lucy Rappaport, Garrett

Green, and Mia Rappaport. Enjoy your prizes and thank you forparticipating!

Menchkins Lag BOmer PicnicSunday, May 6, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Join us for a fantastic day of

Kite flying

Outdoor play

And potluck picnic

What to bring: kites, picnic blanket,sunscreen, your own picnic plus anadditional snack to share!

RSVP to Lisa [email protected]

or 345-9326

Shul School News

Lisa RappaportShul School Director

7/31/2019 CBI News May 2012

11/16


Mazal Tov to Joe Clark, who celebrated his80th birthday on April 30. To 120!

Mazal Tov to Kaitlyn Zeichick. The EleanorJ. Marks Holocaust Essay Contest JudgingCommittee has selected Kaitlyn Zeichick asthe recipient of a cash reward for heressay

submission. An awards presentation at theCommunity Yom Hashoah event took placeThursday, April19, at Mosaic Law Synagoguein Sacramento. At this event, Kaitlynreceived her certicate, cash prize,and theChildrens Voices book that includes all of thisyears essays.

Mazal Tov! Gratitude

Chaim Rappaport would like to thankall the people who helped him at theDont Cook Tonight dinner. Toomany too mention. I appreciate youall!

To submit an item please email:

[email protected]. Kindly note "Mazal Tovsubmission" in the email subject line and

include the specic wording as to how you would

like it to appear, including all family members

whom you would like mentioned in the newslet-

ter. Thank you.

HaSifriyah The LibraryCorner

Books are made for use, not to be hidden away

Sefer HasidimCBI Book Group

Hi Everyone,

This month we are reading anovel by one o Israels bestloved authors. Yehoshua wasawarded the Los AngelesTimes Book Award in 2007and lives in Haia. Join us ora lively and lovely aternoonwith riends.

Date: Sunday, May 6, 2-4

p.m. at the Schifmans

Discussion: A Late Divorce by A.B. Yehoshua.

Want to stay up-to-date with the Book Groupannouncements? Contact Irv Schifman [email protected] or the latest updates aboutlocation and dates.Wendy DiamondCBI Library Chair

Tikkun Olam Heal the WorldTorres Shelter Crews Deserve a Big Thank You!

Thank you to the JTC who made up February crew thatprepared and served a miraculous marinara mitzvah!!!

Here they are:

Molly and Vicky Steindorf

David, Joy and Kaitlin Zeichick

Steve, Ari and Charlotte NaimanSadie Pressman

Michael Puig

Rabbi Danan

Nancy Evens

Maureen Knowlton

The March Crewwas made up of students and parents from theBnai Mitzvah Class and they did a wonderful job. Here they are:

Karen Carter

Ella Shapiro

Sharon Kaplan and Lilia

Nancy Evens

Easter Sunday Crewwas Maureen Knowlton, Greg Einhorn,Peter Straus and Nancy Evens. Thank you!

7/31/2019 CBI News May 2012

12/16


Yahrzeits in MayEthel Altman ....................................................... May 1

Remembered by Michael & Wendy Mulcahy

Dr. Marcus Arginteanu ........................................ May 1

Remembered by Louis & Selda Arnoff

Jacob Grossman ................................................... May 1

Remembered by Deborah Shapiro

Morris Gottlieb .................................................... May 3

Remembered by Stanley & Anne Gottlieb

Alice Hightower .................................................. May 4

Remembered by Loretta Steinke

Reta Foster........................................................... May 5

Remembered by Loretta Steinke

Heinz Johannsen ................................................. May 5

Remembered by Ingeborg Johannsen

Everett Levison.................................................... May 5

Remembered by Helene Ginsberg & Andrew SaberskyScott Suneson ...................................................... May 5

Remembered by Chaim & Lisa Rappaport

Violet Sommer ..................................................... May 6

Remembered by Peter Straus & Nancy Evens

Dorothy Levine .................................................... May 7

Remembered by Mark & H.T. Levine

Sylvia Bauer ........................................................May 13

Remembered by Michael & Beverly Paull

Erno Szaberszky .................................................May 15

Remembered by Helene Ginsberg & Andrew SaberskyMarion Corwin ...................................................May 16

Remembered by Norman & Jean A. Corwin

Leonard Shapiro .................................................May 16

Remembered by Deborah Shapiro

Merton H. Breslauer ..........................................May 17

Remembered by Robert & Donna Greenberg

Anna Resnick .....................................................May 18

Remembered by Larry & Sheri Trimboli and Joe & Rose Clark

Bernard Evens ....................................................May 19

Remembered by Peter Straus & Nancy Evens

Charles (Chil) Naiman ...................................... May 20

Remembered by Steven & Maria Naiman

Ben Cole .............................................................May 21

Remembered by Al & Sandy Abrams

Eshgah Halimi .................................................. May 22

Remembered by David & Fran Halimi

Edward Kahn ..................................................... May 26

Remembered by Robin Black

Esther Brownfield ............................................. May 27

Remembered by James W. & Nelda Jessee

Mazal Danan ..................................................... May 27

Remembered by Avraham Danan & Julie Hilton Danan

Zion Danan ....................................................... May 27Remembered by Avraham Danan & Julie Hilton Danan

Estelle Bermann ................................................ May 29

Remembered by Dave Bermann

Let the Sisterhood HelpThe Sisterhood can help while you are recovering orworking through a difficult time. We can help with:

Shopping Cleaning

Pets Gardening

Call Sue Mintzes at (530) 636-4244 or (910) 620-0782 to request assistance.

7/31/2019 CBI News May 2012

13/16


DonationsWe would like to thank the following CBI members and friends:

Building FundMark & Kay Barchas: In honor of Tali & Zia Miller

Rabbis Discretionary FundAl & Sandy Abrams

Louis & Selda Arnoff: Seder tickets donated

Stanley & Anne Gottlieb: For the Yahrzeit of Edith Gottlieb

Joel & Susan Mintzes: In honor of T. Bender

Michael & Wendy Diamond Mulcahy: Donated Commission fromitems sold at Sephardic Festival

Carolyn Sanger

Rabbinic Studies FundSteven & Maria Naiman: In memory of Mollie & Charles Naiman

Shul School FundLouis & Selda Arnoff: Donation for Purim Basket & Challah

David & Kelly Zeichick: Bnai Mitzvah Plaque for Joy

Rabbis Health InsuranceAl & Sandy Abrams

Torres Shelter DinnerMichael & Wendy Diamond Mulcahy

Inge Schmidt: In honor of her parents Else and Hans Schmidt

If I am for myself alone, what am I then?

Samantha Levine..............................................................May 1

Kristy Bergson .................................................................May 2

Michelle Givertz ..............................................................May 2

Jessica Leitner ................................................................... May 6

Cassidy Marsters .............................................................. May 6Ryan Carter ....................................................................... May 7

Rene Everett ................................................................... May 8

Karen K. Rogers ..............................................................May 8

Wendy Diamond Mulcahy ............................................May 10

Steven Schwartz .............................................................May 11

Jonathan Trimboli ..........................................................May 11

Janice Gagerman............................................................May 12

Bonnie Megibow............................................................May 12

Samuel Edelman ............................................................May 13

Loretta Steinke ...............................................................May 13

Emma Carden ................................................................May 14

Russell Shapiro ...............................................................May 15

Casey Rubinoff ..............................................................May 20

Zadok Panunto ..............................................................May 21

Elizabeth Fine ................................................................May 23

Ricky Jackson .................................................................May 26

Jay Dakof ........................................................................May 27

Marshall Thompson & Andrea Lerner .........................May 2

Michael & Sara Leitner ..................................................May 17

David & Fran Halimi .....................................................May 22

Norman & Jean A. Corwin ...........................................May 23

Mike & Terri Richman ...................................................May 30

Birthdays in May

Anniversaries in May

Tree of LifeTo honor or memorialize aperson or to celebrate anoccasion by adding a leaf tothe Tree of Life quilt,which hangs in thesynagogue, send a $25donation to:

CBI Tree of Life, PO Box 3266, Chico, CA 95927

Ineshamahyoga!

7/31/2019 CBI News May 2012

14/16


Oneg & Kiddush Sponsors

Free this Shabbat?How about considering

sponsoring a Kiddush or Oneg ?

We always have a need for Oneg

and Kiddush Sponsors or

Providers throughout the year.

Please call Betty Senseman

530-345-7727

to schedule your Oneg or Kiddush.

(

Join the CBI ChoirWe are now ready to assemble the official

CBI co-ed choir.

Our spirits have been lifted with wonderful

musical experiences lately. We want to

continue the opportunity for avodahthrough

music and song. If you are interested in

being a part of the choir, please email Rene

Everett ([email protected]). The choir

will lead songs and prayers at ser vices,

and represent CBI at community events.

Participants will need to make a commitment

to attend services as well as weekly or bi-

weekly practices. The Rabbis taught: All thewritings are holy, but the Song of Songsis the

Holy of Holies.

Support CBI with yourAdvertising Message

For more information

contact: Gabrielle Green,530-514-7311,[email protected]

Share Your Graduation Announcements

Share the good news of your (or your child or

grandchilds) graduation from high school, college or

beyond for inclusion in the June-July newsletter issue.

Tell us the graduates name, relationship to you, school,

and future plans such as study or work. Please submit to

Gabrielle Green, [email protected], by May 15th.

7/31/2019 CBI News May 2012

15/16


William A. Landes, M.D.Medical Director/Owner

Skypark Walk-In Medical Center2485 Notre Dame Blvd.

Suite 230

Chico, CA 95928

Phone: (530) 899-9500

FAX: (530) 899-4040

Support Our Sponsors

Dennis DeromediRealtor, President, Chico Assoc. Realtors 1998Realtor of the Year 1999

220 West 6th St. Chico, CA 95928Office: 530-899-2313 Fax 530-899-2314 Cell: 530-321-1828E-Mail [email protected]

DEROMEDI& ASSOCIATES

REAL ESTATE

$500 donation to CBI General Fund for each list-ing received and sold through this ad. $1,000donation if I have the listing and I sell yourhome without another agent.

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

David T Green

Financial Advisor.

2101 Forest Ave Ste 120Chico, CA 95928

530-892-8460

7/31/2019 CBI News May 2012

16/16

Congregation Beth Israel

Congregation Beth Israel is an independent, egalitarian Jewish community whose roots

date back a century. The synagogue is both nondenominational and unaffiliated. Our

guiding principle is Klal Yisrael, the unity of the Jewish people. True to that spirit, CBI

embraces a diverse membership of Jews from all backgrounds as well as interfaith couples

and those exploring Judaism. We serve about 100 families in the greater Chico area with a

wide range of programs for toddlers, tweens, teens, adults, and seniors. Our Shul Schoolis very strong, and our Sisterhood is very active. Services are generally held Friday nights

at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. We also hold services on all major Jewish

holidays.

The ideal to which we strive is Mordecai Kaplans concept of the synagogue center,

in which a congregation serves both as a house of worship and as a community center.

Rabbi Julie Hilton Danan provides the inspirational leadership for our Jewish values:

study, Torah; worship and practice,Avodah; social action, Tikkun Olam; acts of kindness,

Gemilut Hasadim; and connection with the Jewish People,Am Yisrael.

Congregation Beth Israel

Post Office Box 3266

Chico, CA 95927

Return Service Requested

Mark Your Calendar for

Upcoming Spring Events at CBI:

May 5 Bat Mitzvah of Liron Ariely

followed by Israel Fair

May 10 Lag BaOmer Celebration

May 12 Bat Mitzvah of Emma Carden

May 26 Tikkun Leil Shavuot - Late Night

Torah Study

May 27 Shavuot Picnic

June 2 Bat Mitzvah of Sadie Pressman

Shavuot at Five Mile

Documents

CBI News May 2012