Congregation Beth Israel News - cbichico.org · Congregation Beth Israel News continues on page 3 An Important Message from Congregation Beth Israel Dear member of CBI, Congregation

Tevet/ Sh’vat 5773 | January 2013

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

CongregationBeth Israel News

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An Important Message from Congregation Beth IsraelDear member of CBI,

Congregation Beth Israel is undergoing very serious financial difficulty since it appears that membership dues and other contributions will not be sufficient to meet our yearly expenses.

As appears to be true with other small congregations throughout the country, a loss of membership and reduced contributions from members has seriously impacted the CBI budget. Several of our largest contributors have left Chico and for whatever reasons membership pledges are coming in at reduced levels.

The Board of CBI is doing its part to help by reducing expenses wherever possible, cutting back on such basic items as cleaning services, having religious school parents provide the snacks, and we are no longer printing hard copies of the newsletter. Of course, we will continue to assume educational costs for some young families of limited means who want their children to get a Jewish education and we have never made ability to pay a condition of temple membership.

Despite our efforts to reduce expenses, our annual budget remains close to $125,000. When you think about it, it’s a real bargain that within such a budget a community like ours has a full time rabbi, maintains a congregation building, funds a religious school, offers adult learning classes, organizes the celebration of Jewish holidays and provides a series of creative programs, such as the Festival of Sephardic Culture with the music of Yuval Ron. Of course, we could not accomplish all of these services without the contribution of so many members who volunteer their time and efforts.

Sometimes it is important to remember why it is we have a full-time rabbi, and why members give of their time, energy and funds to support CBI and all of its many functions? Many of them do not consider themselves religious in the traditional sense. But they do believe in community; they believe that we must have and maintain a Rabbi and a temple that provides us with a way to observe with others the cycles of life: the naming of a baby, growth and learning through bar/bat mitzvah, the joys of marriage, and, with great compassion, the sadness of illness and death. In our small temple, personal celebration and sadness are shared experiences. There are more smiles, hugs and kisses in celebration; more shoulders to lean on in times of need. We who have had our children bar and bat mitzvahed here want other families to have the same opportunity; we who have been comforted through sickness and the passing of love ones want others to be similarly comforted. We want present and future members of our community to raise children who are proud and knowledgeable Jews and we want to see Congregation Beth Israel continue as a center for Jewish prayer, education, culture, holidays and community.

Our dues program is basically voluntary, trusting members to give an amount consistent with their financial situation. We also expect that pledges made will be fulfilled, although that is not always the case. Unless we can increase the level of support given to CBI, we will have to reduce the level of services offered and think about even more drastic changes.

How can you help?• Please re-examine your CBI dues pledge so that it reflects your true income and wealth. Can you be a

Benefactor or otherwise increase your annual dues? A small percentage of our members are carrying much of the load that rightfully should be shared by all and we now see that is no longer sustainable.

2 | www.cb ich ico.or g

Congregation Beth Israel 1336 Hemlock St. • Chico, CA 95928Ph: 530-342-6146 • Fax: 530-342-0278

www.cbichico.org

Executive BoardPresident ....................................................Carol EdelmanVice President/Membership ..................Kristy BergsonVice President/Bldg and Grounds .....Michael Mulcahy Vice President/Capital Campaign ............David HalimiSecretary ............Andrew Sabersky & Helene GinsbergTreasurer/Past President........................ David ZeichickPast President..............................................Irv SchiffmanCommittee Chairs

Building and Grounds ...................Marshall ThompsonCommunications .......................................Renée EverettMember at Large ................................Madelyn HolzmanMember at Large ......................................Dave BermannMember at Large ....................................... Cindy RatekinRitual ......................................... John & Bonnie MitchellReligious School .........................................Steve NaimanTikkun Olam/Social Action ................... Jona PressmanSocial & Cultural ................................Donna GreenbergSunshine & Mitzvot .................................Loretta SteinkeSisterhood President .....................................Sue MintzesFundraising ..................................................Karen Rogers

NewsletterEditor ...........................................................Renée EverettDesigner ........................................................Carla ResnickPhotographer ............................................Dave Bermann

CBI Office HoursOffice Hours TUE, WED & FRI 1–5 pm Administrative Assistant: Liz BohnPhone: (530) 342-6146Email: [email protected]

CBI Newsletter submissions: [email protected] copy (cc): [email protected] for submissions is the 15th of the month prior.

CongregationBeth Israel News

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

220 West 6th St. Chico, CA95928Office: 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.

New Mailing Address for CBICBI no longer has a post office box. Please send all correspondence to the physical address: Congregation Beth Israel, 1336 Hemlock Street, Chico, CA 95928

Bat Mitzvah: Lilia DiazBat Mitzvah Date: January 19Parents: Sharon Kaplan and Lalo DiazGrandparents: Hesh Kaplan and Meredith KaplanSchool: 7th grader at Chico Junior High SchoolTorah Portion: BoMitzvah Project: knitting hats for Enloe Cancer Center, volunteer at the Butte Humane Society

Lilia Diaz invites you to her Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, January 19, 2013 Please let Lilia’s mother, Sharon Kaplan, know if you are planning to attend the service and/or the dinner that evening.Please reply to: [email protected]

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An Important Message from page 1

• When you do make a dues pledge, please pay the full amount you have promised. Payments can be sent directly to CBI at 1336 Hemlock St., Chico, CA 95928. If you wish, you can pay in monthly installments, by automatic bank withdrawal, or pay on-line through PayPal. Contact the CBI Treasurer, David Zeichick, for more information (592-6001).

• A bequest to CBI in your will or living trust will enable us to create an endowment. An endowment provides a perpetual source of income to the congregation while reducing the pressure on dues. As the endowment grows, it can help us meet our present needs and secure CBI’s future for years to come. For more information, please contact Steve Margolin (342-6476).

• Individuals in the Jewish community who prefer not to be members of CBI but wish to support the continued existence of a strong Jewish community can provide important financial support as a Friend of CBI.

• Finally, do you know someone who could be a member of CBI? Please encourage him or her to do so. And what can we do to bring former members back into the fold?

We hope that you, as our valued members and friends, will take this message to heart and consider how you can increase your contribution to our budget in order to ensure the continued success of CBI and all the benefits it provides.

Sincerely,David Zeichick Carol Edelman Irv SchiffmanTreasurer President Past President

Another Successful Silent AuctionIt was a cold, windy rainy night outside but inside CBI it was warm, bright and fun. We got to enjoy

tasty warm soups and hors d’oeuvres as we strolled around the tables bidding on the many items offered for sale while socializing with friends. The Silent Auction fundraiser for our religious school netted $5200, less than in past years but still a hefty amount in support of our Shul School. Thanks to Karen Rogers, Irv Schiffman and Donna Greenberg for coordinating the event. They organized this fundraiser with many wonderful volunteers who helped with set up and clean up, donated items for sale, and contributed the food that we enjoyed. Thanks also to the local businesses that contributed items for our sale.

Merchants 5th Street ClothingA & J Party CenterA Fresh Hair StudioArt, Etc.Bella MarketBetty’s on BroadwayBuild.comChico Beauty CollegeChico Express CleanersChico FloristChico Medical EquipmentCollier HardwareCotton PartyDan Alexander, Esq.Derm BarDiamond WDr. RicheyEric’s Car WashGabrielle FerrarHemlock Street Klezmer Band

Holbrook’sJon & Bon’s Yogurt ShopKreationsLittle Red Hen Gift ShopLittle Red Hen Kids & KitchenLittle Red Hen NurseryMagnolia Gift & GardenNorth Valley ProductionsNorthern Star MillsOlde Gold Estate JewelryPeet’s CoffeePhoenix Gift ShopPowell’s Sweet ShoppeRiver PartnersSam’s Hair FantasticSierra Nevada BreweryTasha CodyTrader Joe’sVintage Hen

Members & FriendsAnne & Stan GottliebCindy RatekinDavid & Kelly ZeichickDebby ShapiroDeni WhitingDonna & Rob GreenbergFran & David HalimiIrma DakofJeremy & Amy MillerJudith KremerJulie BraschKaren RogersKristy & Justin BergsonLeanna & George RawleyMadelyn Holzman & Miguel PuigMarc SiegallMarshall ThompsonMichael & Wendy MulcahyNancy Evens & Peter StrausNelda Jessee

Nitsa & Irv SchiffmanPeter WolkPhyllis CullenSam & Carol EdelmanSara & Michael LeitnerScott SullwoldSheri & Larry TrimboliShul SchoolFood & Wine DonationsNitsa & Irv SchiffmanDonna GreenbergKaren RogersLeanna RawleyScott PressmanLaurie HowardDawn RambachRobin BlackLoretta SteinkeSara LeitnerTim CarterFran Halimi


Rabbi’s Classes for Adults Resume in JanuaryModern Jewish Thinkers and Theologians is the subject for Rabbi’s Shabbat Class for adults, commencing on Saturday, January 26 (Tu Bishvat) at 9am. This class is free of charge. Participants should buy and bring a copy of The Many Faces of God—A Reader of Modern Jewish Theologies, by Rifat Sonsino. To help her plan the class, please email [email protected] if you plan to attend.

Exploring JudaismRabbi Danan teaches

this class for any adult who wants to learn or review the basics of Jewish history, belief, and observance, including considering conversion to Judaism. The class will take place at CBI on Thursday afternoons at 5pm, beginning January 10. There is no fee for the class, but consistent attendance is expected. To register, email [email protected].

Shabbat Scholar, Irv Schiffman, Analyzes Israeli Elections January 25

Irv Schiffman, Professor Emeritus of Political Science at Chico State, is our Shabbat Scholar on Friday, January 25, at our 7:30pm service. Just a few days after the Israeli elections, Irv will tell us the stories behind the headlines and analyze what the elections mean for Israel.

Shul School Fundraiser

Kosher Deli Lunch

Kosher Pastrami Kosher Corned Beef Kosher Sliced Turkey

Served on Jewish Rye Bread or Sliced Challah

Served with Coleslaw and Potato Salad,

Sauerkraut and a Pickle

Delicious Warm Soups to keep you healthy! Rich and Delicious Tomato Bisque Jewish Penicillin Chicken Soup Jewish Deli Style Mushroom Barley Soup

Many, many Heavenly Desserts too!

This is sure to be a feast your grandparents would be proud of!

Sunday, February 10, 2013

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Member Prices: $15 Full Orders, $7 Half Orders Non Member Prices: $20 Full Orders, $10 Half Orders

All kids under age 5 are Free

Please bring a Donation for the Torres Shelter!


From Our Rabbi: Celebrating Trees & Nature Rabbi Dr. Julie Hilton Danan

Rabbi Dr. Julie Hilton Danan

Tu Bishvat, meaning the “Fifteenth Day of Shevat,” is the New Year of Trees, corresponding to January 26 this year. It is mentioned in rabbinic texts as the day when trees are judged, just as people are judged on Rosh Hashanah, and was also thought to be the day that the sap begins to rise in the trees each spring. It is the day after which all fruit harvested is counted in the coming year’s tithes, the 10 percent of the harvest that Jewish farmers brought to the Jerusalem Temple.

Today we celebrate Tu Bishvat by planting trees—locally or in Israel—and by eating fruits and nuts that remind us of the Land of Israel. Several hundred years ago, Jewish mystics introduced the Tu Bishvat Seder, modeled on the Passover Seder. The ritual consists of eating various types of fruits, each of which represents an increasingly higher and more spiritual level of being. Four cups of wine or grape juice—from white to pink to darker pink to red—are drunk to represent the changing seasons. This year we will celebrate at CBI with appropriate readings and fruits at the Shabbat morning service

on Tu Bishvat, January 26.The holiday has gained new

meaning in modern times because of growing awareness of the importance of preserving our environment. I recall our daughter Arielle’s high school friends being impressed that Judaism has a holiday that celebrates planting trees. Indeed, planting trees is a venerable Jewish custom for any happy occasion. Trees affirm life, nature, and the future. In ancient Israel, a cypress was planted for the birth of a girl, and a cedar for the birth of a boy. Branches from the trees were later used to make their wedding chuppah (canopy).

For Tu Bishvat or any special occasion, you can plant and dedicate trees in Israel through the Jewish National Fund (jnf.org) or locally through River Partners (riverpartners.org). And it’s always wonderful to plant a tree with your own hands. Pick your mitzvah and celebrate this Tu Bishvat. Happy New Year of Trees!

HaSifriyah The Library Corner“Books are made for use, not to be hidden away”

—Sefer HasidimCBI Book GroupPlease join us!

We will be reading The River Midnight by Lilian Nattel, a novel that takes place in a shtetl in turn-of-the century Poland. The four women were once known as the vilda hayas, “wild creatures,” because of their remarkable exuberance and unconventional behavior. These inseparable friends loved to flee the confinement of their conservative Jewish homes to share girlish secrets and dance together in the woods. As their elders predicted, middle age with its responsibilities and disappointments brought them down to earth. Only memories of their once warm comradeship still remain.

Be there or be square.We will meet on Sunday January 20th at 2:00p.m. The location will be

announced via email from Irv Schiffman [email protected] so get on the mailing list for announcements!

Wendy DiamondCBI Library Chair


Shul School Pizza Night Fundraiser Shul School students, their siblings, and parents had a great time hanging out and eating pizza during the Shul School Pizza Fundraiser Night at Round Table Pizza in Chico on December 11, 2012. We also enjoyed the delicious desserts, some even homemade, brought in by many of the Shul School families. We would like to thank all of the students and families that ordered food as well as went out of their way to bring in desserts that were sold. A very special thank you goes out to Aaron Rambach for going the extra mile in helping to raise funds for Shul School. We are also extremely appreciative of Round Table Pizza for supporting our fundraiser by donating 20 percent from all of the CBI orders. Thanks to the following Shul School students and their family members that supported this fundraiser. We are so appreciative of the support that you have given to your Shul School.Keren, Emily, and Tim CarterWendy, Callie, and Cassidy MarstersNoah Stone, Sophie, Dawn, and Aaron RambachCheryl and Cai JacksonMaria, Charlette, and Isabella NaimanElenor Sandoe and Heather AltfeldThe Zeichick FamilyLucas and Monica ZukrowSharon Kaplan and Lilia Diaz

Shul School News Keren Carter, Shul School Director and Rabbinic Intern

The New Year of 2013 has the potential of bringing us back to the great taste of our other New Year at Rosh Hashanah and is a fantastic time to review all the great plans and Teshuvah from September, when we have a chance yet again to return to the best parts of ourselves.

Tu Bishvat, yet another New Year for the Trees, is on its way. Soon we’ll be getting the gardens cleaned up and planting parsley for Passover. It is a time to contemplate our environmental impact on our surroundings and even make commitments to take on one more small project to lessen our footprint and increase our handprint – the positive things we are doing every day.

Thankfully, this month will also find us rededicating ourselves to our insight-filled studies of Jewish Values, Torah and Hebrew. Thank you to all who made the Silent Auction successful and our Fundraiser at Round Table Pizza fun and profitable.

We are starting to prepare for our Deli Lunch Fundraiser scheduled for Sunday, February 10. Please contact Keren Carter ([email protected]) to provide Desserts, Coleslaw, Potato Salad and even more desserts. CBI tends to have a sweet tooth, and we have many bakers we can highlight! As well, we need volunteers to set up, serve, and clean up after this great event. Finally, we’d like to have many fun raffle items. Sue Mintzes has already pre-planned a donation from a favorite bakery, Great Harvest. We have Shubert’s Gift Certificates and a couple of fun Jewish T-shirts. We need to raise over $1000 so all hands on deck to help with this yummy and fun event!


Yuval Ron Returns to Chico!

A Special Yuval Ron Shabbat

Friday, March 8, 6:30PM

Congregation Beth Israel

Join us for a Middle Eastern Dinner catered by Petra

And a musical performance by Yuval Ron

Members: Adult $25, Children $15 Non-members: Adult $35, Children $20

Limited Seating Available

More . . .Be a VIP!

Saturday, March 9, 2013

Yuval Ron Ensemble Laxson Auditorium

20 VIP Tickets Exclusively Reserved for CBI

VIP Package Includes Cocktail Party at Diamond W Hors d’oeuvres and Wine, Diamond W 6:15 PM ! Show 7:30 PM

VIP Package for Two, $125

Special Friday and Saturday Package for Two, $150

Tickets Available at Diamond W or

CBI Office, 342-6146


Haverot Happenings Sue Mintzes, President

Has anyone noticed the new light over the Tree of Life in the sanctuary? This light marks the completion of a Sisterhood project dating back to the days when the members sewed the quilt and made the leaves. Please thank Michael Mulcahy for donating his time to the project. And, please thank Rose Clark and Phyllis Cullen (who is on Facebook) for their efforts over the years to make leaves. The tree is a lovely tribute to those who have honored our congregation with service or are memorialized there.

We are pleased to have 62 members of Sisterhood who contribute actively to the congregation. Our Hanukkah Oneg, December 14, was very special because Rabbi Julie focused her sermon on the women in the Hanukkah story and the role of women today in Jerusalem fighting for their rights to pray at the Kotel. Thank you, Helene Ginsberg, Sylvia Bowersox, Carol Wong, and Judith Krenn for your contributions to set up, clean up, and treats.

Many of our members were out of town on December 26 so we are especially gratified that those who were here in Chico were willing to serve this month for the Sisterhood-sponsored dinner at the Torres Shelter. Thank you to those who participated.

Sisterhood funds paid for the Chanukah treats given to the children at Shul School Chanukah party and we made a donation to the Shul School for the Silent Auction fundraiser. We are planning to have a new wall oven in time for Passover since the old one no longer works.

If you have not put January 27 on your calendar please do so. Rabbi Julie will lead us in Jewish meditation at the home of Pam Dakof. This program has been very popular with our members. Watch for the evite.

Again, it is not too early to let Helene Ginsberg know what you want to do for our Sisterhood Shabbat. We hope to get every member participating in the service or making treats for the oneg or in the choir or all three. Please plan to be at services February 8 to support your sisters.

I am in North Carolina visiting my mother during January but can be reached by email or my cell phone. Do not hesitate to get in touch with me if you need something or have a question. Also, watch for our updated Sisterhood roster that will be emailed to all our members this month.

Shalom, Sue

Tikkun Olam Torres Shelter ProjectWe would like to thank Laurie Howard for her help preparing and serving the November meal.CBI provides a meal for approximately 100 homeless individuals and families at the Torres Shelter on the fourth Wednesday of every month. If you would like to donate funds to support this mitzvah, or if you would like help to prepare or serve our meal please contact one of our team leaders:Nancy Evens: 343-3946 [email protected] Knowlton: 896-0931 [email protected].

We are looking for volunteers to help serve and prepare for the January, February, and March meals. No experience necessary. Donations are always welcome with checks made payable to: “CBI – Torres Shelter Project.”


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Sun M o n T u e W e d Thu Fr i S a t

CBI Calendar January 2013 Tevet/ Sh’vat 5773

No Shul School6:30 p.m. Mah Jongg

NO Confirmation Class7:15 p.m. Board Meeting

4:38 p.m. Candle lighting

Parashat Shemot 10 a.m. Torah Service

5: 30 p.m. Beginning Hebrew

3:30 p.m. Shul School6:30 p.m. Mah Jongg

5:30 p.m. Confirmation Class6:30 p.m. Intermediate Hebrew

5 p.m. Exploring Judaism

4:45 p.m. Candle lighting7:30 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat

Rosh Chodesh Sh’vatParashat Vaera 10 a.m. Torah Service

5: 30 p.m. Beginning Hebrew


11 a.m. Brunch Bunch (Meet at Nash’s on The Esplanade)6:30 p.m. Intermediate Hebrew



Parashat Bo10 a.m. Bat Mitzvah of Lilia Diaz

2 p.m. Book ClubThe book is “The River Midnight” by Lillian Nattel. Please contact Irv Schiffman for details.

5: 30 p.m. Beginning Hebrew6:30 p.m. Intermediate Hebrew


CBI at Torres Shelter5:30 p.m. Confirmation Class


5 p.m. Candle lighting7:30 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat

Tu BishvatTu Bishvat Menchkin ProgramParashat Beshalach 9 a.m. Adult Study10 a.m. Torah Service

2 p.m. Sisterhood Meditation at Pam Dakof’sPlease RSVP to Pam Dakof

5: 30 p.m. Beginning Hebrew6:30 p.m. Intermediate Hebrew




Parashat Yitro10 a.m. Bat Mitzvah of Ella Shapiro


Shabbat Services for January

CBI celebrates Kabbalat Shabbat on Fridays at 7:30 p.m., often accompanied by instrumental music, except for the first Friday of the month when we usually have an early Mishpachah (Family) Shabbat during the school year. (No Mishpachah Services in January or February.) We conclude Kabbalat Shabbat with an Oneg Shabbat. Shabbat Saturday morning services generally begin with a brief guided meditation. The first hour of the service consists of prayer; the second hour is a Torah reading and a Torah study. About noon we have a Kiddush and socialize over a light lunch. Friday, January 4 Light Candles at 4:37 p.m.

NO Service NO Service Enjoy Shabbat at Home

Saturday, January 5 10 a.m. Torah Service led by Rabbi Danan and Ella Shapiro. Parashat Shemot Kiddush TBD

Friday, January 11 Light Candles at 4:44 p.m.

7:30 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat led by Helene Ginsberg and Ella Shapiro. Oneg TBD

Saturday, January 12 10 a.m. Torah Service led by Rabbi Danan & Lilia Diaz. Parashat Va’era Kiddush TBD

Friday, January 18 Light Candles at 4:52 p.m.

7:30 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat led by Lilia Diaz. Oneg provided by the Kaplan family and the Sisterhood.

Saturday, January 19 10 a.m. Bat Mitzvah of Lilia Diaz Parashat Bo Kiddush luncheon provided by the Kaplan family.

Friday, January 25 Light Candles at 5 p.m.

7:30 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat led by Rabbi Danan & Ella Shapiro. Shabbat Scholar Dr. Irv Schiffman will speak on Israeli Elections. Oneg TBD

Saturday, January 26 9 a.m.

10 a.m.

Adult Study begins “Modern Jewish Thinkers” Tu Bishvat – New Year of Trees Torah Service led by Rabbi Danan & Ella Shapiro Parashat Beshallach / Shabbat Shira Menchkins will have a Tu Bishvat Program during the service. Kiddush TBD

Thanks to the Sisterhood, the Mitchells, the Passovoys, the Edelmans, and the Millers, for providing the Oneg and Kiddush in December. Call Betty Jo Senseman, 345-7727, to schedule your Oneg or Kiddush. Let us know if you are celebrating something or if you are remembering someone. Preferably make and serve it yourself, or alternately make a donation of $25 for Friday night Oneg, or $50 for Saturday Kiddush, and we’ll find a volunteer to prepare it.



Hanukkah “Put on your yamaka, it’s time for Hanukkah, So much fun-akkah to celebrate Hanukkah, Hanukkah is the Festival of Lights, Instead of one day of presents, we have eight crazy nights” The Hanukkah Song Lyrics - Adam Sandler

Yasher koach and thank you are not strong enough words to express to all who participated in making CBI’s annual Hanukkah Party at ARC such a success! Although we panicked at first about how we were going to pull this off without Harvey Rappaport as head latke chef, with Harvey’s recipe and both Bonnie Mitchell and Nelda Jessee taking the helm of the kitchen, we put together an event beyond excellent! Besides thanking our head kitchen chefs, Bonnie and Nelda, I am also thankful for the help from Jim Jessee, Renée Everett, David Green, Ingeborg Johannsen, David Zeichick, and Russell Shapiro. The kitchen staff functioned like a “well-oiled machine.” The latkes were very delicious and one comment from a celebrant was “best latkes ever!”

Thank you to all who helped to set up tables and decorate the ARC—Andrew Sabersky, John Mitchell, Rob Greenberg, Jona Pressman, David Zeichick, Kaitlyn, Joy, and Audrey Zeichick, and Ella Shapiro. David Z. also organized games for the kids of all ages; love that donut game. Our rockin’ band led by David Frankel and band members Scott Pressman, Justin Bergson, Bracha Pence, Victor Mlotok, Michael Leitner, Steve Margolin and newest member vocalist Sylvia Bowersox were terrific. They entertained us all as we sang Hanukkah songs and danced.

Dave Bermann, I can’t wait to see the pictures you took during the party. Thanks to Sue Mintzes for working the door and collecting money from those who attended, accepting the Torres Shelter donations, and selling raffle tickets … talk about multitasking! You cannot thank the cleanup crew enough—taking down wall decorations, throwing out garbage, taking off table cloths and items from the tables, packing up the bins, cleaning bowls, the coffee urn, pans, the kitchen of grease, and loading cars. Then driving everything back to

CBI, unloading cars, and putting items away. Whew, I am exhausted just writing this. This group included Tim Carter, Helene Ginsberg, Rob Greenberg, Nitsa and Irv Schifman, Robin Black, Carol Edelman, Kelly Zeichick and myself.

Thank you Fran Halimi, Renée Everett, Madelyn Holzman, Kristy Bergson, Carol Edelman, Loretta Steinke, and Helene Ginsberg

for the delicious salads; every bowl was scraped clean! Thank you Fran Halimi for organizing the items for the Gift Shop sale, and Renée Everett, Gabrielle Green, Hallie Green and Clara Shapiro for setting up and working CBI’s Gift Shop. Thank you Rabbi Julie for providing song sheets and bringing the large Menorah. Our JTC group baked, set up, and sold sweet and savory treats to raise funds for the Torres Shelter, and business was brisk. Plus, the Torres Shelter will be recipients of your generous donations of much needed items that Sue Mintzes graciously dropped off at the shelter after the party. Last, but not least, I want to give a BIG thank you to Steve Shuman for the generous donation of 50 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes.

The room glowed with the shimmering lights of the many Menorahs as we recited the blessings for the second night of Hanukkah led by Rabbi Julie. We also raised funds by raffling many exciting items that were donated to CBI. Everyone attending seemed to have had a wonderful and fun time; there was plenty to do for all ages. Thank you all for all of the help –we are truly a terrific and big-hearted community! Please let me know if I missed anyone who had a part in putting this party together and I apologize if your name was omitted.

Donna Greenberg, Social and Cultural Chair

[ And a huge thank-you to Donna for chairing the Hanukkah party and making it a big success!” ]

Havurah Shir Hadash Synagogue presents a

Shabbaton with

Reb Zalman & Eve IlsenApril 12-14, 2013 in Ashland, Oregon

Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi is one of the most important spiritual leaders of our generation. Join us in this rare opportunity to learn, laugh, and pray with these two renowned and beloved teachers.

Cost: $235 if pre-paid & pre-registered by January 21, 2013 for members of ALEPH communities $260 for pre-paid & pre-registered by January 21, 2013 for general public $285 all registration after January 21, 2013 Some work study trades availableRegistration: forms & FAQ’s will be available shortly at www.havurahshirhadash.org For more information contact [email protected] Events: Friday night and Saturday morning services led by Reb Zalman, Eve, along with his students. Afternoon workshops; Saturday evening Havdallah and special event, plus Sunday morning closing circle. Fee includes Friday evening dessert, Saturday luncheon, Seudah Shishit (light meal) and Sunday morning bagels.Saturday evening event No additional charge for participants in the weekend


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

Donations December 2012

Rabbi’s Discretionary FundAl & Sandy AbramsChelsea Accursi & Grant ThorntonJudith Krenn & Carol WongAnonymous Donor

Rabbi’s Health InsuranceAl & Sandy Abrams

Shul SchoolRabbi Julie Hilton & Avraham Danan

Annie B FundMarv & Bonnie Megibow

General FundMichael & Carol PassovoyIrv & Nitsa Schiffman

Torres ShelterMichael & Carol Passovoy

Capital Building FundDebby Shapiro

We would like to thank the following donors for their generosity.

Welcome New MembersJon and Sylvia Bowersox just moved to Chico all the way from the United Arab Emirates. Jon is a surgeon at Enloe Medical Center. He recently retired from the military after twenty-six years of service, which included multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. Sylvia served in the Army Reserves and did tours of Iraq for the Army and the State Department. She plans to enroll at Chico State to get both her Masters in English and a teaching credential for high school English and theatre. Sylvia has the pleasure of singing with the CBI band, drawing upon her many years of experience as an actress and singer. Jon has a son, Chris and a daughter, Marisa, and two beautiful granddaughters. Sylvia has a 12-year-old son, Holden. Jon and Sylvia are happy to be in Chico and really enjoy being part of the CBI community.

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

Skypark Walk-In Medical Center2485 Notre Dame Blvd.

Suite 230Chico, CA 95928

Phone: (530) 899-9500FAX: (530) 899-4040

Kol Hakavod (Way to go!) To CBI Sunshine and Mitzvot committee, who

sponsored a Hanukkah party for the Jewish residents of Sierra Sunrise Terraces on the fourth night of Hanukkah. Loretta Steinke, Carol Edelman, Sue Mintzes, Sharon Kaplan, and Lilia Diaz brought lots of menorahs, latkes, and good conversation to the residents. Hesh Kaplan, Sharon’s dad, took the great photos.


Yahrzeits in January

Lynne Dafner ..................................... January 1Remembered by Karen & Richard Rogers

Rabbi William Frankel ....................... January 1Remembered by David Frankel & Janice Gagerman

Rose Feierstein .................................. January 3Remembered by Morlene Cohn & Richard Feierstein

Herbert Mintzes ................................ January 7Remembered by Joel & Susan Mintzes

Eve Millar ........................................... January 8Remembered by Michael & Wendy Diamond Mulcahy

Al Zeichick ......................................... January 8Remembered by David & Kelly Zeichick

Sydney Goringer-Lemmon ................ January 9Remembered by Loretta Steinke

Phillip Benaron ................................ January 14Remembered by Lisa Benaron

Edwin Fine ...................................... January 15Remembered by Matthew & Isabel Fine

Nina Plaut ........................................ January 15Remembered by Marvin & Bonnie Megibow

Joyce Shapiro ................................... January 15Remembered by Russell Shapiro & Heather Fisher

Aghdas Abadia Halimi .................... January 16Remembered by David & Fran Halimi

Harold Sanger .................................. January 17Remembered by Jeremy & Amy Miller

Albert Pfluecke ................................ January 23Remembered by Kathy Zeichick & Sue Pfluecke

Birthdays in JanuaryJulian Schwartz .................................. January 4

David Frankel .................................... January 7

Mark Levine ....................................... January 9

Kaitlyn Zeichick ................................ January 9

Lilia Diaz ..........................................January 11

David Green ..................................... January 17

Leah Lewkowicz .............................. January 17

Keren Carter ..................................... January 18

Alani Cullen ..................................... January 18

David Halimi ................................... January 18

Betty Jo Senseman ........................... January 19

Marshall Thompson ........................ January 19

Terence Cullen ................................. January 21

Sky Cullen ........................................ January 23

Joanna Rawley ................................. January 24

Scott Pressman ................................ January 26

Maureen Knowlton .......................... January 28

Amy Miller ....................................... January 29

Susan Mintzes .................................. January 29

Wendy Marsters ............................... January 30

AnniversariesDr. Marc Siegall & Linda Clark-Borre

.......................................................... January 29

Marilynn Belmonte .......................... January 27Remembered by Pam Dakof & Irma Dakof

Lillian Leitner .................................. January 27Remembered by Michael & Sara Leitner

Edythe Zeichick............................... January 28Remembered by David & Kelly Zeichick

Reno Mazzucchi .............................. January 29Remembered by Chaim & Lisa Rappaport

Congregation Beth IsraelCongregation 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 K’lal 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

School is 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 Kaplan’s 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.

Let the Sisterhood HelpThe Sisterhood can help while

you are recovering or working 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.

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.

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Congregation Beth Israel News - cbichico.org · Congregation Beth Israel News continues on page 3 An Important Message from Congregation Beth Israel Dear member of CBI, Congregation