CONGREGATION BETH ISRAEL OF SAN DIEGO  ALWAYS OPEN AT WWW.CBISD.

ORG FEBRUARY 2009

THE GREENING OF CONGREGATION BETH ISRAEL INSIDE:

WORSHIP SCHEDULE
page 3

Look at My works. See how beautiful EDUCATION, PROGRAMS

they are, how excellent. See to it AND EVENTS
page 4-11
that you do not spoil or destroy My eleev
elevators, social hall and
world — for if you do, there will be sanctuary
san nc sconces, lobby COMMUNICATIONS SURVEY
downlighting and exterior
do
d pages 12
no one to repair it after you.
wall lighting. The
w
Midrash Ecclesiastes Rabbah 7:13 ssecond change is to add BOARD BRIEFING
Variable Fr
Frequency
re Drives (VFDs) page 12
to the water ppumps that circulate the
chilled
hill d water
t forf our HVAC system (air PURIM FESTIVITIES
By Deborah DeBow conditioning unit). The VFDs enable the back cover
Social Action Chair system to work less if there is less work to
As we celebrate Tu B'Shevat, our "New Year do. Currently our drives work on a simple
for Trees" on February 9, we recognize the on/off control. This works fine when all
importance of protecting the environment, rooms are in need of cooling, but if only 1
and the need to begin right in our own or 2 rooms need cooling, a lot of energy is
homes and on our beautiful CBI campus. wasted because the water is sent throughout
the whole building. The VFDs are scheduled
As I write this we are putting final to be finished by the end of February.
touches on plans for our third annual
Environmental Fair - Live Green! - to take Both the fluorescent bulb installation and
place February 1 at CBI. With a film and the VFD installation will save on energy
discussion panel, farmer's market, onsite usage and extend the life of the equipment.
recycling, landscape designer consultations Significant rebates from SDG&E will help to
and many exciting exhibitors and activities, offset the cost of the new equipment. In
this annual event highlights what each of us addition, attractive and descriptive
can do to benefit the planet. In the coming receptacles to encourage recycling are being
year, as we put what we learn into practice purchased.
we will also see changes taking place at CBI. We continue to explore ways to green our
Last spring, at the recommendation of the campus and reduce our carbon footprint.
Social Action Committee, CBI requested an As always, we welcome your ideas and
energy audit from SDG&E. The resulting suggestions.
suggestions gave us a starting point to
become more energy efficient. Staff is Environmental Fair
implementing energy efficiency changes in organizer Seekey
several major ways. The first is changing Cacciatore, right,
incandescent bulbs throughout the offers tips to attendees
synagogue to fluorescents. New fluorescents at last year's Fair.
have been installed in the conference room,
 Giving at Congregation Beth Israel
Needed: More
Kehillah Callers
The Kehillah Callers have been calling
our members 70 years and older at
BU IL DI NG C OM MUNI T Y & C ONN EC T EDN ESS

Pesach and Rosh Hashanah for the past

four years. The calls are greatly
appreciated and really demonstrate what
CBI's Caring Community means. We
could use a few more Callers for Pesach;
LIGHT
WAY
can you make 10 calls to join in this

the
mitzvah? Please email Steve Gould at
sjgould@sbcglobal.net.

5769 A nnu al F u nd Appeal

Light the way and help make it possible
for Congregation Beth Israel to keep its
doors open for all who wish to enter.

GIVE TODAY
A listing of all contributors will appear in the late spring.

Recently at CBI
Members of CBI joined with those of First Unitd Methodist Church of San Diego, the Islamic Center of San Diego, and other
congregations to plan and participate in a Martin Luther King Jr. Interfaith Day of Service in Balboa Park. After a park cleanup project
the 200 attendees enjoyed a community picnic and were entertained by the MADA Youth Gospel choir.

2 www.cbisd.org
 Worship Schedule www.cbisd.org/worship

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21 FRIDAY, MARCH 13

6:00 p.m. Tot Shabbat Torah Portion: Mishpatim Exod. 21:1 – 24:18 7:00 p.m. Family Shabbat Service
6:00 p.m. Teen Shabbat Haftarah: II Kings 12:5 – 12:16
7:30 Erev Shabbat Service with special 8:30 a.m. Torah Study (Rabbi Berk) SATURDAY, MARCH 14
guest speaker Regina Waldman 10:00 a.m. Minyan Service Torah Portion: Ki Tissa Exod. 30:11 – 34:35
(see ad this page) D’var Torah: Cynthia Wexler Haftarah: Ezekiel 36:22 - 36
10:00 a.m. Shabbat Morning Service 8:30 a.m. Torah Study (Rabbi Bohm)
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7 with Bat Mitzvah 10:00 a.m. Minyan Service
Torah Portion: Beshalach Exod. 13:17 – 17:16 4:00 p.m. Shabbat Afternoon Service Leader: Avi Lowe
Haftarah: Judges 4:4 – 5:31 Reader: Jo-Anne Berelowitz
with Bat Mitzvah
8:30 a.m. Torah Study (Rabbi Bohm) 10:00 a.m. Shabbat Morning Service
10:00 a.m. Minyan Service
Leader: Al Kohn FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27 with Bat Mitzvah
Reader: Abbi Hirschfeld 7:30 p.m. Friday Night Chai Service
D’var Torah: Janice Alper
10:00 a.m. Shabbat Morning Service SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28
with Bar Mitzvah
Torah Portion: Terumah Exod. 25:1 – 27:19
Haftarah: I Kings 5:26 – 6:13
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13 8:30 a.m. Torah Study (Rabbi Berk)
7:00 Family Shabbat Service Regina Waldman at
10:00 a.m. Minyan Service
D’var Torah: Jo-Anne Berelowitz Erev Shabbat Services
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14 Friday, February 6
Torah Portion: Yitro Exod. 18:1 – 20:23 FRIDAY, MARCH 6
Haftarah: Isaiah 6:1 – 7:6; 9:5 - 6
6:00 p.m. Tot Shabbat
8:30 a.m. Torah Study (Rabbi Bohm) 6:00 p.m. Teen Shabbat Did you know
7:30 Erev Shabbat Service that Baghdad
10:00 a.m. Minyan Service
Leader: Avi Lowe was 40% Jewish
until the 1940s?
Reader: Janice Alper
D’var: Rabbi David Katz SATURDAY, MARCH 7 Few are aware that nearly
Torah Portion: Tetzaveh Exod. 27:20 – 30:10
one million Jews were
Haftarah: Esther 7:1; 8:15 - 17
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20 made refugees from Arab
8:30 a.m. Torah Study (Rabbi Berk) countries. Come hear
7:30 p.m. Soul Food Shabbat Service
10:00 a.m. Minyan Service Regina Waldman, chair of
Leader: Al Kohn JIMENA (Jews Indigenous
Reader: Mary Marshall to the Middle East and
D’var Torah: Jane Lazerow North Africa) tell her family
story of exile from Libya.
MONDAY, MARCH 9: PURIM Regina Waldman has
testified in Congress, the
6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Purim Extravaganza UN, and lectures at
with parade, Megillah reading and universities, human rights
schpiel, food and drink to follow. commissions, synagogues,
See details on back cover. churches and community
centers.

WAS YOUR CHILD BORN IN 1998? If so, please attend the Bar/Bat Mitzvah Family Meeting in the David and Dorothea
Garfield Social Hall on Wed., March 18 at 7 p.m. It is a joy to contemplate the privilege of blessing your child at the milestone of Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Along
with joys come the details. You should have received a packet of information and details concerning the setting of dates. If you did not andwww.cbisd.org
believe your child 3is eligible,
please contact Sonia Martinez immediately at 858 535-1111, ext. 3110, or smartinez@cbisd.org
DayTimers www.cbisd.org/daytimers
Afternoon Enrichment Program for Adults
RSVP and pay for all DayTimers events at www.cbisd.org/rsvp. For more
information visit our website at www.cbisd.org/daytimers, or contact
Program Director Bonnie Graff at 858 535-1111 ext. 3800 or bgraff@cbisd.org.
LIGHTS, CAMERA, FRIEDENBERG!
with Andy Friedenberg
Thursday, February 19 at 1:30 p.m.
Learn what’s hot and what’s not in 2008-9 in
the world of film. Four days before the 81st
Annual Academy Awards, Academy
member Andy Friedenberg, Director of the
Cinema Society of San Diego, shares his
thoughts with us about this year’s Oscar
candidates. He will reveal his predictions of
the big winners and lots of film lore that will
fascinate and entertain. Don't miss the
chance to get the scoop on “Oscar” buzz. $5
per person. Register and pay by Thursday,
February 12.
Men's Club www.cbisd.org/mc
FEBRUARY DINNER FORUM
Wednesday, February 18 at 6:30 p.m.
Enjoy a presentation of contemporary
interest and a deli dinner. $12 per
person. Fee includes deli dinner. RSVP
online at www.cbisd.org/rsvp, or call
858 535-1111 ext 3800.
MEN’S DISCUSSION GROUP
Join us on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday
of each month from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
for a lively and enlightening open
discussion of current topics. Men's
Club membership is not required and
there is no charge for this event.
MONTHLY BOARD MEETING
All Men’s Club members are invited for
a lively discussion of Men’s Club and
CBI activities at Board meetings the
first Wednesday of each month at 6:30
4 www.cbisd.org
THE CHAGALL WINDOWS:
A BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVE
with Sydney Wexler
Thursday, March 19 at 1:30 p.m.
An exciting presentation including a
slide show and discussion about the
windows created by Marc Chagall for the
synagogue in the Hadassah-Hebrew
University Medical Center in Jerusalem.
These world-renowned works of art
reflect Chagall’s visionary artistic
interpretation of subjects found in the
Hebrew Bible. Viewing and discussing
the Chagall Windows provide a lesson
and a joyful experience as we blend
contemporary art with the Bible. $5 per
person. Register and pay by Thursday,
March 12.
To join the Men’s Club, call Bob Metz at 619 286-8416.
p.m.. We follow with dinner at a nearby
restaurant. Call Bob Metz for
information at 858 535-1111, ext. 3800.
YOM HASHOAH CANDLE PACKING
Sunday, March 15 from 8:00 a.m.
The Men’s Club distributes Yom
Hashoah candles to CBI members each
year to encourage all of us to remember
the Holocaust. Join us as we pack and
address 1400 candles for mailing. All
volunteer help is welcome. Packing will
run until early afternoon in the social
hall. FREE REFRESHMENTS. RSVP to
Mike Rose 858 535-1111, ext. 3800.
PHOTOGRAPHIC ADVENTURES:
A LIFE IN RETIREMENT
Thursday, April 16 at 1:30 p.m.
Steve Gould will talk about his journey
into his new “life after life” and about
some of the trips and experiences he has
had in order to capture the images for his
artwork. He will also share some of his
beautiful finished pieces.
After he retired, Steve discovered
Photoshop and the digital photography
world, and learned that he could show
and sell his artwork. It has effectively
become a new career for him. Steve looks
for nature’s myriad colors, textures and
complex patterns, especially in those
moments that are fleeting and never to be
repeated. In addition to traditional
landscape photography, he draws his
inspiration from the “underwaterscape”
(he’s an experienced SCUBA diver) and
from compositions he finds on our local
beaches. Fee: $5 per person. Register and
pay by Thursday, April 9.
THANKS TO MEN’S CLUB USHERS
Thanks to the friendly Men's Club ushers
who passed out your prayer books and
literature at Friday Shabbat Services this
past month: Don Greenberg, Walter
Hauer, Steve Laufer, Michael Heinzman,
Arthur Levy, Jim Malkus, Bob Metz,
Michael Rose, Ken Jacobs, Marty Klitzner,
Christopher DiLeo and Richard Rosenberg.
MEN’S CLUB EMBRACE-A-FAMILY
GIFT COLLECTIONS A SUCCESS
The Men’s club collected hundreds of
dollars worth of toys and gift certificates
at its December Holiday program. The
donations were collected for Jewish
Family Service's Embrace-A-Family
program which helps families to have a
joyous holiday. Thank you to all who
donated.
Adult Learners Network www.cbisd.org/aln

CBI BOOK CLUB TASTE OF JUDAISM

Unless otherwise noted, RSVP
online at www.cbisd.org/rsvp,
visit www.cbisd.org/aln, or
contact Program Director
Bonnie Graff at bgraff@cbisd.
org, or 858 535-1111, ext. 3800.
SYNAGOGUE GEOGRAPHY
Tuesday, February 17 at 7:00 p.m.
Thursday, February 19 at 7:00 p.m.
New members are always welcome. In
February we will discuss Night, by Eli
Wiesel, Thursday, March 26: Dancing
Arabs, by Sayed Kashua, Thursday,
April 23: undecided, Thursday, May 21:
Moscow Rules, by Daniel Silva.
No fee. Contact Louise Winheld at
suprluba@san.rr.com, or
Nancy Abelon at nncyabelon@aol.com.
Tuesdays, April 14, 21, 28
from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
This is a three-session beginners’ guide to
God, Torah and Israel, taught by Rabbi
Lenore Bohm. Taste of Judaism is
co-sponsored by United Jewish
Federation and the Union for Reform
Judaism. Nonmembers, Jews and non-
Jews are welcome. Reservations are
required at www.jewishinsandiego.com,
or contact Rachel Kitt at 858 737-7149, or

Rabbi Michael Berk takes you on a JEWISH MEDICAL ETHICS outreach@ujfsd.org.

fascinating behind-the scenes tour that with Janine Feldman, M.D.,

reveals little-known facts about our
campus. See details on page 6.
HOT TOPICS AND JEWISH TEXTS:
Downtown Kallah (study) with Rabbi
Berk, Every Third Wednesday,
February 18 - May at 12:00 p.m.
Law Office of Hecht Solberg Robinson
Goldberg & Bagley LLP,
600 West Broadway, Suite 800, San Diego
Each one-hour session focuses on
subjects of contemporary interest. We
study from traditional rabbinic texts,
mostly the Babylonian Talmud, and apply
the teachings of our sages to our lives. No
experience studying Talmud is required
and participants may join us whenever
they can attend. Space is limited and
RSVPs are required one week ahead. No
fee. CBI members only. Bring your own
lunch; beverages provided. Building
parking $2 per 15 minutes.
Thursdays, March 5, 19, 26
from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
This class covers fundamental principles
of Jewish ethics and values that can be
used to bring clarity to controversial
issues in contemporary medicine. Fee:
$25 for CBI members; $40 for
nonmembers. Register and pay online by
Thursday, February 19.
92ND STREET Y BROADCAST
FEATURING SALMAN RUSHDIE
Sunday, March 15 at 4:30 p.m.
Join us for this broadcast from New York
City with author Salman Rushdie. His
ten novels have been critically acclaimed,
including Midnight’s Children , Booker of
Bookers; The Satanic Verses, The Moor’s
Last Sigh and most recently The
Enchantress of Florence. $5 for CBI
members; $10 for nonmembers. Register
and pay online by March 8.
INTERFAITH PANEL:
With Rabbi Michael Berk, Msgr.
Dennis Mikulanis, Rev. Jim Standiford
and Imam Taha Hassane
Wednesday, April 22 at 7:00 p.m.
Jewish, Protestant, Catholic and Muslim
clergy will engage in an open and spirited
panel discussion on the topic: Abraham
and the Journey of Faith. A Q&A session
will follow, moderated by Irv Kass. No
fee. RSVP online by Wednesday, April 15.
SAVE THE DATE:
Eisman Israel Scholar-in-Residence
Weekend with Rabbi Donniel Har tman
May 8-9, 2009
CBI is honored to present the inaugural
Eisman Israel Scholar-in-Residence
Weekend featuring Rabbi Donniel
Hartman, co-director of the Shalom
Hartman Institute in Jerusalem, Israel.
Rabbi Hartman is the founder of some
of the most extensive education and
enrichment programs for educators and
rabbis in Israel and North America. He

GOD & FREUD

earned a doctorate in Jewish philosophy
and Master of Arts degrees in political
philosophy and religion.
Details will follow about the first in a
with Amy Hirschberg Lederman and Ray Lederman series of biennial learning weekends led
Saturday, April 18 at 12:00 p.m. by Israel scholars and artists, all made
possible by the generosity of Al and
Is Jewish observance an obsession or the key to spirituality? Join us
Naomi Ruth Eisman.
for a delicious catered luncheon and our special guest presenters
who will offer insights about Jewish observance from both spiritual
and psychological perspectives and will help you better understand
the needs, longings and drives that underlie our desire to
experience Judaism and God.
Amy Hirschberg Lederman is an award-winning, nationally
syndicated columnist, author, Jewish educator and public speaker.
Ray Lederman has spent 25 years in academic, clinical and
administrative psychiatry.
$15 for CBI members; $25 for nonmembers. RSVP and pay online www.cbisd.org 5
by Monday, April 13.
Outreach www.cbisd.org/outreach
Bouquets
Are you new to Judaism, raising Jewish children,
for Bonnie!
or just interested in learning more? CBI welcomes SAVE THE DATE:
you and has designed these classes to give you an Friday, April 17, 2009
introduction to the warm celebration of Jewish life.
Join us as we celebrate Program Director
Bonnie Graff’s more than 25 years of
service to Congregation Beth Israel.
SYNAGOGUE GEOGRAPHY:
EXPLORING OUR SACRED SPACE 5:30 p.m. Shabbat Dinner Program
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17 AT 7:00 P.M. 7:30 p.m. Shabbat Service with
Rabbi Michael Berk takes you on a fascinating behind-the-scenes special guest speaker
tour that reveals little-known facts about our campus and takes
the mystery out of the ritual items found in the sanctuary. You’ll 9:00 p.m. Elegant Dessert Reception
also have a chance to enjoy refreshments, connect with others
and “shmooze” (socialize) with Rabbi Berk. This class is designed
For more information contact Heather
for both those exploring Judaism and anyone interested in an
intimate look at the design and symbolism found on our Taylor-Williams at 858 535-1111, ext. 3126,
beautiful and award-winning CBI campus. or heathertw@cbisd.org
No fee but please register for planning purposes by
Tuesday, February 10. Register online at www.cbisd.org/rsvp, or Watch our Web site for additional details.
contact Program Director Bonnie Graff at bgraff@cbisd.org, or www.cbisd.org
858 535-1111 ext. 3800.

PASSOVER STEP BY STEP

TUESDAY, MARCH 10 AT 7:00 P.M.
After this fun evening of instruction, ideas, music, recipies and
hands-on practice lead by Director of Education Emeritus
Join us at the URJ Pacific Southwest
Helene Schlafman, you will be able to comfortably design and Council Regional Biennial Convention
lead your own Seder.
No fee but please register for planning purposes by
Tuesday, March 3. Register online at www.cbisd.org/rsvp or
contact Program Director Bonnie Graff at bgraff@cbisd.org or
858 535-1111 ext. 3800.

OUTREACH SHABBAT DINNER AND SERVICE

FRIDAY, MARCH 27
Dinner at 6:00 p.m.; Service at 7:30 p.m.
This moving Shabbat service will honor our interfaith families,
Jews-by-choice and non-Jewish members who embrace Jewish
traditions and often play a key role in raising Jewish children.
Members of our community will share their personal stories in
sermonettes. All are welcome to attend and the preceding dinner "Come for the weekend or for the day on
offers a great opportunity to get to know others who are new to
Judaism and/or expanding their knowledge. Saturday. See you there!" -- Judy Fisher,
Dinner: $25 per person, $9 for children ages 2-12. No fee for
Member of the Regional Biennial Steering
individuals enrolled in Basic Judaism. RSVP and pay online by Committee. For more information or to
Friday, March 23 at www.cbisd.org/rsvp. For more information register, go to urj.org/psw/resources/biennial/
contact Program Director Bonnie Graff at bgraff@cbisd.org or
call 858 535-1111, ext. 3800.

6 www.cbisd.org
Religious Educuation and the Survival of Life
The Religious School students will be
participating in the Environmental Fair
this year. What will the next
environmental consciousness raising
exercise look like? What, simply put, will
be necessary to save our planet?
Very often theology develops in response
to social/political circumstances. When
the Temple was destroyed by the Romans
and there was no longer a place to offer
sacrifices, the Rabbis developed the idea
of a God who wants to hear prayers, not
smell sacrifices. When we were thrown
out of Spain in 1492 and our social world
collapsed, our Rabbis added the concept
of “tikkun olam,” the repair of the world,
to our theological repertoire. Now we
need new theological ideas to respond to
the environmental crisis.
At one time - in order to protect the earth
- it was enough to teach that we should
The Wonderful, the Versatile Jessica Kretzer!
By Michelle Berkowitz
Our religious school students are thrilled
when they learn that they can be in
Jessica Kretzer’s class in 4th, 7th, 8th and
CBI High. Jessica has been teaching in
our Religious School Program for three
years and brings Judaism to life in a way
that engages her students and gives them
confidence in their Jewish knowledge.
Young or "old," our students always greet
Jessica with a warm smile or a hug.
In 4th grade, her students learn about
Torah and Israel. They become well-
versed in the weekly parasha and the
cities, politics and people of Israel.
all “tend our garden like Adam.” It may
not be enough now. At one time - in
order to motivate us to action - it was
enough to say that we are “God’s partner
in repairing the world.” It may not be
enough now. What is required now is “a
theology of urgency” that includes a more
aggressive vocabulary to confront the
global crisis. Our children must see
themselves as God’s “armed forces,
soldiers in a battle against time.” Our
children must “mobilize” and “organize a
military-like campaign” to “fight” to save
the earth. It is not enough to teach our
children to “tend” the beautiful earth, so
that they view themselves as friendly
gardeners lovingly watering the flowers.
We are irresponsible if we do not
characterize the global crisis as just that –
a crisis - choosing appropriate metaphors,
analogies and symbolism to express the
urgency which is necessary to survive.
Jewish American
History is a core component
of the three trimesters
which make up 7th grade.
“Our students are on the
brink of a Bar or Bat
Mitzvah. It is important
that they know where our
people come from so they
can decide what role they
want to play in our people’s future,”says
Jessica.
In 8th grade, Jessica teaches
Comparative Religions. Students examine
a wide variety of religions, asking questions,
challenging the thought process of
religious perspectives and participating
in discussions and debates.
This year, Jessica introduced a new
elective into our high school program:
Images of God. Students explore how
modern music, movies and literature
depict God and relationships with God.
They dissect why we look for images of
God and what Judaism has to say about
each representation we find in various
media: cartoons, movies, radio and books.
We have some appropriate teachings
already. Said Rabbi Levi ben Hiyyata
about the connection between a balanced
natural order and human survival: “...
without earth, there is no rain, and
without rain, the earth cannot endure,
and without either, humans cannot exist
(Genesis Rabbah, 13:3) But we need more.
We need a theology that connects
individual responsibility, the common
fate of all living creatures and urgent
action.
Where to start? At Temple – with
religious education. The inculcation of
values and beliefs is the first step and the
best hope for our survival.
L’shalom,
Rabbi David Katz
Director of Congregational Learning
Jessica is from Texas where her family
still belongs to Congregation Beth Israel
of Houston. She worked for five years as a
madrichah (teacher's aide) there while a
middle and high schooler. She earned a
Bachelor's degree in deaf education at the
University of Texas at Austin, and taught
fifth grade religious school at Austin's
Congregation Beth Israel. Jessica
relocated to San Diego in 2004 and
received her Master's degree in Deaf
Education from San Diego State University.
When not
teaching at Beth
Israel, Jessica
teaches deaf
students with
mulitple handicaps
and special needs
at Madison High
School. She married
Mark Rubenshtein in May 2008.
We are so lucky to have Jessica on our
teaching staff and at all levels of CBI’s
Religious School.
www.cbisd.org 7
Women of Beth Israel www.cbisd.org/wbi

HELP RACHEL’S WOMEN’S CENTER SERVE DINNER

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8 AT 5:00 P.M.
Rachel’s is a temporary downtown shelter for homeless women.
WBI provides meals and companionship and collects items for
the facility. A basket for the collection of small toiletries and
unused cosmetic samples is available at all WBI events. Please
bring what you can, or drop off at CBI reception desk at your
convenience.
We provide dinner for the very appreciative residents every
second Sunday of the month. If you’d like to prepare and donate
a portion of the meal and help serve, contact Julianne Markow at
858 344-5088, or wbi@markow.net, or Bonnie Graff at 858 535-
5111, ext. 3800.

WBI USHERS
Thank you to Ellen Edwards, Sheila Bliss, Elaine Moser and
Betsy Shaubrich for ushering in January.

Attention all committees, auxiliaries,

SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF ART TOUR
SUNDAY, MARCH 22 AT 2:00 P.M.
Join Women of Beth Israel for Sunday afternoon
light refreshments, and art at the San Diego Museum
of Art. The highlight of the afternoon will be private,
docent-led tours of the exhibition Black Womanhood:
Images, Icons, and Ideologies of Africa. This multi-
media exhibition explores historic and contemporary
representations of the black female body in both
African and Western arts.
Open to all (women and men); Fee: $20 per person;
$10 per SDMA member. After March 16 tickets are
available at the door for $25 per person, $15 per
SDMA member. Register online by Monday, March
16 at www.cbisd.org/rsvp. For more information or
to RSVP contact Program Director Bonnie Graff at
bgraff@cbisd.org or call 858 535-1111 ext. 3800 or
email Julianne Markow at julianne@markow.net, or
Kathie McKirdy at kathiemckirdy@yahoo.com.
boards, chavurot, and room parents!
Put on your oven mitts and get ready
to rumble! Get your best recipes
together and compete in the cook-off.
There is no limit on the number of
entries per group.
To Enter: Send in your group's name and names of recipes
to be entered. Competition categories: Appetizers, Jewish
holidays, Soups and Desserts. Entrants are asked to
prepare a small dish to serve five judges and one larger
dish to serve 10-15 guests. Please do not mix meat and milk
within the same dish or recipe and no pork, shellfish, or
imitation products.
Judging will be by Master of Ceremonies, Sam the Cooking
Guy (Sam Zien), Caron Golden, Eric Whinston and
audience participation. Bring your entire group to cheer
for your team. Prizes awarded to top competitors.

$20 per CBI member; $30 per non-member. ALL CBI

members are invited whether submitting a recipe or not.
Deadline for entering the recipe competition: February 1.
RSVP to attend by Friday, February 20, at www.cbisd.org/
rsvp. Questions? Contact Joanne Gimbel at
joannegimbel@yahoo.com, or Program Director Bonnie
Graff at bgraff@cbisd.org, or 858 535-1111 ext, 3800.

8 www.cbisd.org
Early Childhood Education
www.cbisd.org/schools/ece.shtml
Contact the preschool office regarding all Early Childhood events
and programs at 858 535-1144, ext. 3120 or preschool@cbisd.org
BILL AND SID RUBIN PRESCHOOL
ENROLLMENT SEASON FOR THE
2009-2010 YEAR HAS BEGUN
The Bill and Sid Rubin Preschool is open
to children two years of age through
Junior Kindergarten. It offers the very
best in early childhood education,
providing a program rich in Jewish
culture, tradition and values. Baby and
toddler parent-participation programs
are also offered. Our early childhood
department provides a warm, nurturing
experience for the whole family. Call now
for an enrollment application and/or to
arrange a school tour with Early Childhood
Education Director Tammy Vener.
TWO NEW WEEKDAY PROGRAMS
FOR TODDLERS AND PARENTS
Both classes require pre-registration.
Contact the preschool office for details.
Songbirds Music with Diana Davidson
From 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Wednesdays through March 18
This class is a community of families
sharing songs, rhythm games and
instrument play together in a fun, safe,
Jewish environment. You will be
learning music through developmentally
appropriate activities that support and
respect the unique learning styles of all
children. An important part of this class
is parent education that will help parents/
caregivers understand and enhance their
child's music development.
Shabbat Together with Sara Kupor
From 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Fridays through March 20
This class is free and open to the entire
community. Come learn and celebrate
Shabbat on Friday mornings. This class
will include singing, story time,
celebration and snack. Meet new friends,
bring your play group and enjoy a
wonderful morning.
TOT SHABBAT: FRIDAY,
FEBRUARY 6 AND MARCH 6
Join us for a family-friendly Shabbat
Service at 6:00 p.m. If you'd like to stay
for dinner after the Service (6:30-7:15
p.m.), RSVP online or to 858.535.1144,
ext. 3120. $12 per adult, $6 per young
child (2-12) and $2 per non-eating child
(under 2 only). Dinner reservations due
the Monday prior.
MY FAMILY & ME: SUNDAY,
FEBRUARY 8 AND MARCH 1
My Family and Me is a free program,
open to the community and designed for
families with children ages 6 months to 4
years. My Family and Me features the
celebration of Jewish holidays and
activities through songs, art and cooking.
Come learn about Tu B'Shevat on
February 8 and Purim on March 1. 10:00
- 11:00 a.m. in the South Social Hall. No
RSVP needed. Bring a friend!
Families enjoyed CBI's Preschool
Pajama Chanukah in December.
Stand with Israel
www.cbisd.org/israel.shtml
MESSAGE FROM NEW COMMITTEE
CHAIR, DR. JONATHAN SIEGEL
I'd like to take this opportunity to
introduce myself as the incoming chair of
the Stand with Israel Committee and to
share some news about our committee.
The Stand with Israel committee has
always upheld and reinforced the solidarity
of Congregation Beth Israel with the State
of Israel. We are currently re-forming
with a new structure, a new plan and
renewed energy toward that purpose.
I'm excited about bringing together
my love of Israel and my long-time
association with CBI. I'm a San Diego
native who celebrated my Bar Mitzvah at
CBI. I lived in Israel on a kibbutz during
10th grade and spent another year at Tel
Aviv University. Currently I'm a physician
at Kaiser Permanente. My wife, Barbara
Lounsbury serves on the CBI board and
my three children, Max, Rebecca and
Benjamin have grown up in CBI's Religious
School and youth groups. Look for future
reports from me as the Stand with Israel
committee again becomes an integral part
of CBI life.
Jonathan Siegel in Jerusalem with wife, Barbara
and children Ben and Rebecca.
www.cbisd.org 9
Social Action/Tikkun Olam
You are not
required to
complete the
work, yet
you are not allowed to desist
from it. – Pirkei Avot 2:21
NEXT KNIT AND NOSH GET
TOGETHER SUNDAY, FEBRUARY
8 AND MARCH 15 AT 9:00 A.M.
Meet at Café Beth Israel to make “squares”
and to stitch blanket squares together for
needy babies at Vista Hill. It’s easy to
learn! Kits of yarn, needles and instructions
are available at the CBI office. This is a
wonderful mitzvah. No experience
necessary. To help, or to learn more, contact
Program Director Bonnie Graff at 858
535-1111, ext. 3800, or Susan Volsky at
858 259-1667, thevolskys@yahoo.com.
WRITE A LETTER TO A U.S.
SOLDIER, FRIDAYS, FEBRUARY 13
AND MARCH 13
Join us after Shabbat services to write a
letter to a U.S. soldier in Iraq or
Afghanistan. Paper, pens, crayons will be
provided. Help CBI purchase items for
care packages (cost $30/ box). Make
checks payable to CBI with “SAC/Adopt a
US Soldier” in the memo. Mail to CBI,
Attn. Bonnie Graff. Information:
adoptasoldier@cbisd.org.
Students in CBI's Religious School write and decorate letters that will be sent in care
packages to U.S. soldiers serving overseas.
10 www.cbisd.org
www.cbisd.org/sac
2ND SAN DIEGO
WALK FOR DARFUR
SUNDAY, MARCH 29 AT 9 A.M.
Show your commitment to stopping the genocide in Darfur!
Walk with your neighbors, friends and other concerned
citizens. Join us at De Anza Cove in Mission Bay.
Contributions will support the Sudan Relief and Advocacy
Fund of American Jewish World Service. Register online at
www.SanDiegoWalkforDarfur.org. To volunteer and/or
receive more information, contact Ami Minteer at
Aminteer@cox.net or 619 593-8005.
HOUSEHOLD COLLECTIBLES FOR MAKE IT HAPPEN IN
JFS RUNS MARCH 13 - APRIL 19 NEW ORLEANS!
Do a little spring house cleaning and Make It Happen, the networking
donate household items! Check our Web philianthopic project, is now more than
site at www.cbisd.org/sac for specifics. halfway towards its goal of raising
$10,000 for Communities in Schools,
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY New Orleans. With over $6,000 raised,
purchases have included testing
Last December 14 we dodged a predicted materials, mentoring time, school
rain storm and 12 hardy souls from CBI
met at a Habitat work site in Carlsbad.
uniforms and many more desperately
Part of the group nailed sheeting on the
needed educational tools. You can now
go online to cisneworleans.org and make
second story roof of a six unit condo while a pledge or buy a tribute in any amount
those who did not like heights installed in someone's honor or memory.
windows. This was the 16th work party Remember, many people donating small
sponsored by CBI's Social Action Committee amounts does make a difference.
and chaired by Glenn Farber. We have had
167 participants since our first adventure Contact Bonnie Graff at bgraff@cbisd.org,
in July 2004, contributing over 1300 hours or Barbara Ziering at bkziering@yahoo.com.
toward helping Habitat for Humanity
provide housing for needy families. Our THE HUNGER PROJECT
next work party is scheduled for the CBI provides volunteers to prepare and
spring. For more information contact serve breakfast every Sunday from 9:00 -
Glenn Farber at glennfar@cox.net. 11:30 a.m. Contact Vicki Raun at 858 535-
1111, ext. 3500, or vraun@cbisd.org.
COLLECTING FOR JFS HAND UP
YOUTH FOOD PANTRY
Let’s celebrate Purim by giving to those
who are less fortunate. CBI is continuously
collecting non-perishable food items.
Please drop donations in the bins located
at the front and back entries to CBI. Cash
donations are also very much appreciated.
Contact Bonnie Graff at 858/535-1111 ext.
3800 or bgraff@cbisd.org.
Youth Events
WHAT'S A PIG DOING IN THE CBI YOUTH LOUNGE?
By BITY Social Action Chair Penny J.
BITY has a new addition to the youth
group: a pig. BITY's pig, however, is
not real but a recycled water jug in
the shape of a pig that is being used
as a tzedakah box. The pig's debut
came last year at a BITY event on the
environment. It is now being used to
hold money BITY is raising in support of
NFTY's Nothing But Nets campaign. Nothing But
Nets is an organization that works to prevent
UPCOMING EVENTS
Visit www.cbisd.org/youth for the most
current information and pictures. RSVP for
events at least 48 hours in advance.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6
Israeli Teen Shabbat Services
6:00 - 9:00 p.m. @ CBI - $5
FEBRUARY 27-MARCH 1
NFTY SoCal Social Justice Kallah
(BITY members only)
FRIDAY, MARCH 6
Teen Shabbat Jam with Kavanah
(Temple Solel’s teen band)
6:00 -9:00 p.m. @ CBI - $5
SATURDAY, MARCH 7
BITY LOCK-IN!
Spend the night with BITY.
5:00 p.m. – 8:00 a.m. - $25
SATURDAY, MARCH 14
NOAR’s Night O’ Games
6:00 - 10:00 p.m. @ CBI - $10
SUNDAY, MARCH 15
J2's Think, Play and Create
at the New Children’s Museum
11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Meet @ CBI - $15
CBI YOUTH HOTLINE: 858 535-1111, EXT. 3100, OR JGIMBEL@CBISD.ORG
malaria through the distribution of bed nets
(For more information visit: www.
nothingbutnets.org). Malaria affects 500
million people worldwide, and the 10
bed nets that BITY's fundraising will
pay for, will make a small
difference in that number. BITY
has raised $71.50 towards this effort,
but we want to reach our goal of $100. Come by the
Novak Youth Lounge and help us fight malaria!
BITY AND TASTY GET ICY!
In January BITY got
together with TASTY
(Temple Adat Shalom)
for a joint ice skating
extravaganza event!
Over 30 teens from all
over San Diego mingled,
schmoozed, and skated.
They also enjoyed a huge
communal Havdalah and
an informative social action
program about Nothing But
Nets. Check out cbisd.org/
youth for videos from this
and the J2 Bowling event!”.
www.cbisd.org 11

THREE MINUTES OF YOUR TIME
That's how long it will take to complete this survey and help
us be more effective in communicating with you. Return this
survey to: Congregation Beth Israel, 9001 Towne Center
Drive, San Diego, CA 92122, Att: Survey. If you prefer, you
may complete the online version at www.cbisd.org/
comsurvey. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us!
1. How much of Tidings do you usually read?
 None  Skim  Some  Most  All
2. How many minutes do you typically spend reading an
issue of Tidings?
 0-15  15-30  30-45  45-60  60+
3. How long do you typically keep an issue of Tidings?
 1-7 days  7-14 days  14-30 days  more than 30 days
4. Which of these do you generally read/view?
 Rabbi's message  Worship Schedule  Our Synagogue
Family  Social Action  Adult Learners  Board Briefing
 Men's Club  Women of Beth Israel  Caring
Community  Outreach  DayTimers  Religious School
 Early Childhood  Youth Events  Stand with Israel
 Recent event photo pages  Contributions
5. Rate your interest in the following. 1 = low, 5 = high
___Photos and short bios of B'nai Mitzvah students
___Member birthdays and anniversaries
___Profiles of unique, distinguished/interesting members
___Profiles of CBI Board members
___Profiles of CBI Staff members
___Stories from CBI History
___Member's personal reflections on Jewish themes
___Written or artistice submissions by CBI children/youth
___Written or artistic submissions by CBI adults
6. What, if anything, would you like to see more of, less of,
or changed in Tidings?
7. How often do you use these CBI communications tools to
obtain information about CBI? 1 = Never, 5 = Often
___Tidings
___CBI Web Site
___Committee Brochures
___Flyers
___Weekly E-Newsletter
___Early Childhood, Religious School or Youth Newsletters
___Early Chiildhood, Religious School or Youth E-newsletters
___Word of mouth
___Other:
12 www.cbisd.org
BOARD OF DIRECTORS BRIEFING
By Judi Schwarz
 A sub-committee is reviewing the
bylaws of Congregation Beth Israel to
recommend any appropriate language
changes. The last major review of the
bylaws occurred approximately 10 years
ago. The board discussed some of the
potential bylaws changes identified by
the sub-committee. The sub-committee
will now consider the board’s input and
will present its final recommendations at a future meeting. Any
changes to the by-laws that are approved by the board would be
subject to approval by the congregation in a vote at the Annual
Meeting in May.
 In response to a board member’s question, Treasurer and
President-elect Ron Simon announced that CBI’s endowment
fund was not invested with any institutions affected by the
Madoff scandal. Our funds are invested through the Jewish
Community Foundation (JCF). The Bank of New York-Mellon
acts as trustee for the funds invested by the JCF. JCF employs an
independent advisor that assists JCF’s investment committee in
selecting investments for the JCF funds. CBI’s investments are
approximately 2/3 in stock mutual funds and 1/3 in bond mutual
funds. CBI’s finance committee meets regularly to review the
investment performance of our endowment funds.
 President Amy Corton reported that we are mid-way through
the “Light the Way” annual giving campaign. She reminded
board members to make their own contributions if they have not
done so. It is hoped that additional contributions will be
forthcoming from individuals wanting to take their charitable
deduction in 2009 instead of 2008.
 Emily Jennewein, chair of the search committee, reported
that additional applications from candidates for our Assistant/
Associate Rabbi position have been forwarded by the Placement
Office of the Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR). A
second candidate has been invited for an on site visit and
additional interviews in January. Other applicants are
progressing through the preliminary interview process.
 The CBI Board meets monthly, generally on the third
Thursday of each month, starting at 5:00 p.m. Board meetings
are usually open to the general membership.
We ask that for planning purposes, you call or email Heather
Taylor-Williams at 858.536.1111 ext. 3113 if you plan to attend.
Sa n Die go Jew i sh Film Fe st i va l
Fe b r ua r y 4 -15, 20 09
858 -362-134 8 • w w w.s d c j c.o r g
 CONGREGATION BETH ISRAEL
9001 Towne Centre Drive, San Diego, CA 92122
Phone: 858 535-1111  Schools: 858 535-1144
Fax: 858 535-1130  Web Site: www.cbisd.org

CLERGY
Senior Rabbi Michael Berk Cantor Arlene Bernstein
rabbiberk@cbisd.org; ext. 3110 abernstein@cbisd.org; ext. 3116
Cantor Emeritus Sheldon F. Merel

BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President: Amy Corton
President Elect/Treasurer: Ronald Simon
First Vice President/Secretary: Emily Jennewein
Remember Your Loved Ones Vice President: Sanford Feldman
Vice President: Barbara Lounsbury
ON THE CBI M E MORIAL WALL
Immediate Past President: Barbara Haworth
Honorary Board Consultant: Jerold Goldberg
Sherwin Chasen Kate Kassar Jerry Sampson
Deborah DeBow Marty Klitzner Molly Schneider
Robert Filderman Lee Levy Judi Schwartz
Placing the name of your loved one Cynthia Fram Barbara Lubin Cynthia Wexler
Heidi Gantwerk Cynthia Polger
on our memorial wall provides a sacred
Women of Beth Israel Co Presidents:
and perpetual way for our community Lisa Gittleman and Marge Schane
Men’s Club President: Bob Metz
to remember those who are dear and Cemetery & Mausoleum President and
allow the beauty of their lives to continue Honorary Life Consultant: Joan Jacobs
BITY (Beth Israel Temple Youth) President: Jennifer Hirschorn
to shine. For information, contact
STAFF
Lianne Gordon at lgordon@cbisd.org,
Executive Director Facilities Coordinator
or 858 535-1111, ext. 3113. Lesley Mills Elaine Guerrero
lmills@cbisd.org eguerrero@cbisd.org; ext. 3106

Program Director Maintenance Director

Bonnie Graff
bgraff@cbisd.org; ext. 3112
Director of
Congregational Learning
Rabbi David Katz
The Beth Israel Cemetery & rabbikatz@cbisd.org; ext. 3125
Mausoleum Association Director of Early Childhood
Tammy Vener
tvener@cbisd.org; ext. 3123
 Jewish burial space for members and their relatives
Director of Finance &
 Savings on pre-need purchases
Human Resources
Kim Jaeger
kjaeger@cbisd.org; ext. 3144
To ask about our MOUNT OF OLIVES LAWN at El
Camino Memorial Park, call Stuart Simmons at 619 Member Services and Caring
871-4160, or ssimmons@cbisd.org. Community Coordinator
Lianne Gordon
To ask about crypts and niches in our HOME OF lgordon@cbisd.org; ext. 3113
PEACE CORRIDORS at Cypress View Mausoleum, call
619 264-3168, or Stuart Simmons at 619 871-4160,
or ssimmons@cbisd.org. Tidings Printed by NebCal Printing
858 558-0100
PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER
Nick Reilly
nreilly@cbisd.org; ext. 3500
Youth Director
Jeremy Gimbel
jgimbel@cbisd.org; ext. 3136
Tidings Editor & Webmaster
Karen Shein Christiansen
krshein@gmail.com
Organist & Choir Director
Robert MacLeod
Director of Education Emeritus
Helene Schlafman
eemah@san.rr.com; ext. 3305
Cemetery/Mausoleum Rep.
Executive Director Emeritus
Stuart Simmons
ssimmons@cbisd.org
www.cbisd.org 13
 Purim Festivities at CBI
PURIM CARNIVAL, SUNDAY, MARCH 8
CALL FOR CARNIVAL VOLUNTEERS! 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
CBI's Purim Carnival is a family favorite every year. Many  Location: CBI Courtyard and Social Hall
volunteers assure its success (and have a great time too). Be one  Inflatable Shushan (six different inflatables)
of them this year! Teen volunteers please call Jeremy Gimbel at  Queen Esther’s Hamantaschen Bakery
858-535-1111, ext. 3136 to get involved. Adult volunteers please  Haman’s Carnival Games
call the School Office at 858 535-1144. Thank you!  Uncle Mordechai’s Mini Carnival
Open to children 5 and under and located on
RELIGIOUS SCHOOL PURIM, SUNDAY, MARCH 8 the Preschool playground
 Vashti’s Beauty Salon
School begins at 9:00 a.m. with a most unusual Purim service.
with face painting, nails
You must see it to believe it. (Forgive the perpetrators in
 King Ahasuerus Banquet Hall
advance.) Parents are welcome. All children should come in
with pizza, hot dogs, hamburgers, salad,
costume. Students and faculty will also be in costume for the
nachos, snow cones, cotton candy
Purim Carnival, immediately following Religious School.
Purchase tickets at the Carnival
$.50 per food and game ticket
PURIM CARNIVAL BLOOD DRIVE, SUNDAY, MARCH 8 $10 per wristband for inflatables (age 5 and under)
The San Diego Blood Bank will be taking donations on March 8 $15 per wristband for inflatables (ages 6 and up)
during the Purim Carnival. Appointments are preferred, but Mini Carnival is $10 per wristband
walk-ins will be accepted. Sponsored by the Men’s Club. For Please bring nonperishable food item for the
information and to RSVP, call 858-535-1111, ext. 3800. JFS Hand Up Food Pantry.

PURIM EXTRAVAGANZA! MONDAY, MARCH 9 FROM 6:30 - 7:30 P.M.

Purim Parade  Megillah Reading  Purim Schpiel  Religious School Presentation
Food and drink to follow. Fun for the whole family - be brave and come in costume!

DATED MATERIAL Non-Profit Org.

Our 148th Year! PLEASE DO NOT DELAY U.S. Postage
9001 Towne Centre Drive PAID
San Diego, CA 92122-1222 San Diego, CA
Permit No. 166

Tidings
Published Monthly, Vol. 123
No. 6, February 2009
Congregation Beth Israel
Voice: 858 535-1111
Fax: 858 535-1130
Schools: 858 535-1144
Email: cbi@cbisd.org
www.cbisd.org