Monthly Newsletter

July Newsletter from COT

07/01/2018 12:00:08 PM

Jul1

This Monthly Newsletter contains A LOT of information. Please be sure to scroll down for Yahrzeits, Birthdays, and Anniversaries as well as board highlights and Temple Donations.

July, 2018 2605 Traffic Way, Atascadero, CA
805-466-0329 congregationcot@gmail.com

Rabbi's Message

In the middle of the desert, the Israelites discover a well ( be’er  in Hebrew).  At the discovery of this unexpected source of sustenance and hope, they burst into song. “Spring up, O well, sing to it!” [Numbers 21:17].
The Hasidic master, the Sefat Emet, quotes from the book of Proverbs 5:15: “Drink water from your cistern (bor) and flowing water from your well (be’er). And he asks, “What is the difference between a cistern (bor) and a well (be'er) ?
The difference in Hebrew is just one letter – the letter aleph. For the Sefat Emet, that aleph signifies the Source of all Life. The cistern just contains gathered water; its contents are limited by the size of the vessel that contains them. But add an aleph to the word bor, and the cistern is transformed into a living well, joined directly to the source of an ever-flowing spring.”

This can be a powerful metaphor for learning.  Add an aleph to our study of Torah, and we can be transformed.  We can move our Torah learning from academic exercises and/or debates taken out of context to deep waters of study that connect and sustain us all. When we study Torah, in all its fullness and complexity, it gives creativity and meaning to our lives. It connects us to beauty of the world around us but it also opens our eyes to the cruelty of the world around us. When we read the Torah, it demands that we ask ourselves, “What does the Torah have to say to me about this world of mine? And what does Torah ask of me today?”

I share this excerpt of a prayer by Rabbi Rachel Bearman, a prayer for those who strive to be what the Torah instructs us to be. (Her sermon can be read in its entirety here).

I pray that we will be like Eve who was willing to risk her safe existence in order to pursue knowledge.

I pray that we will be like Abraham and Sarah who hurried to welcome strangers into their camp and rushed to prepare a meal for them.

I pray that we will be like Rebekah who was judged as remarkable because of her kindness to a traveler.

I pray that we will be like Reuel who encountered a wanderer fleeing from his home, brought him into his community, and treated him like family.

I pray that we will remember Rabbi Akivah’s teaching at the heart of the Torah, the verse at the center of the scroll and at the center of the Jewish tradition, is Leviticus 19:18 which says,"Love your neighbor as yourself- V'ahavta l'reiacha kamocha."

This is my prayer for all of us and for all those who hold the bible as a sacred text.

Amen

July Calendar

7/6 5:30p Tot Shabbat
   6:30p Family Services
Rabbi Janice
7/8 8:00a Herzog Tour
7/10 7:00p Board Meeting
7/11 7:00p New Machzor
Intro to Machzor
7/13 7:30p Shabbat Services
   Rabbi Janice
7/18 7:00p New Machzor
   Shofar Service
7/20 7:30p Shabbat Services
Ron Becker
7/24 10:30a Book Club
At COT
7/25 7:00p New Machzor
Avino Malkeinu
7:00p Men's Club
   Rick Moss
*No July Havurah
7/27 7:30p Shabbat Services
   Rabbi Janice

Board Highlights
·

Survey results netted a 60% participation rate. The Board reviewed the results, and will consider what actions to take at the next Board meeting.
There will be small group meetings scheduled in the future to discuss some of the survey questions and actions that the Board will be recommending.
Torah School enrollment for Fall is 18. Beginning Hebrew teachers are still being sought.
New High Holiday Machzors are in. There will be 5 introduction/education sessions during the summer: 3 in July, and 2 in August.
Israel trip is finalized! We are seeking 3 more COT travelers, to secure a better price.
Kate Silverman, our new assistant, has started and is helping out a great deal already. She will work up to 12 hours per week, many of these from home.
Annual General Meeting – 36 people in attendance.
Herzog Winery Tour and Lunch (Oxnard), Sunday, July 8th.
Thanks to Fred and Frieda Russell for their ongoing representation on the JCC Board on our behalf.

Virtual Bulletin Board

Are you interested in becoming an adult Bar or Bat Mitzvah?

Contact Rabbi Janice for more information on how to begin this meaningful experience.

Check out: The Modern, Not Thirteen Year Old's Guide to: The Adult B'nai Mitzvah by Christine Machlin.
Joan Bloomfield, who completed the ceremony last year, is included in this personal compilation!

Upcoming COT Events

Kvelling Corner

Please send your proud moments to Sam Mogull to be featured in the Kvelling Corner!

Thank you to all who submitted pictures of your graduates!!!

Cayden Wemple with proud sister Skyler.

Emily Moss with parents Rick and Leslie Moss, sister Whitney, and brother Jacob.

Grace Mundee during her graduation ceremony.

Lia and Eshley Freed-Doerr speaking at their ceremony.

A smiling Will Mehring on to new adventures!

Samantha Mogull ready to make you wine.

Zach and Lexi Sidders with Grandparents Fred and Frieda Russell

COT Community

Rabbi Janice and Friends concert

A fantastic evening of friends, family, good food, wine, and awesome entertainment by some very talented Ladies!
A big thank you to all our stars! Rabbi Janice, Meagan Pitcairn Glimpse, Meredith Brammeier, Sholly Von Stein, Donna Jones, Wendy Greene, Wendy Wendt, Mary Sue Gee, and our accompanists, Cindy Dixon Levine and Janis Johnson. All your talent is so appreciated.
Thank you to our hard working Committee, Rita Becker, Frieda Russell, Leslie Moss, Melany Spielman, Robin and Mark Cohen, Ron Becker, and all the help from Joan Bloomfield, Cricket Handler and Nancy Osran. Your hard work helped make this event the awesome success it was.
Thank you to Dawn White and Pacific Harvest Catering, your food was outstanding.
Thank you to Epoch Estate Winery, Templeton and Sculpterra Winery, Paso Robles for donating wine for this event.

Teacher Appreciation
and
1st Annual Young Mensch Award

Thank you to all our Torah School Teachers who volunteered their time this year to nurture our youngest members.

Melissa Trinidad
Michael Mogull
Jessica Main

-----------------------------------------------------------

Rita and I are pleased to announce Congregation Ohr Tzafon’s first “Young Mensch” award for 5778 or 2017/2018
We would like to present these awards annually and our goal is to hand out as many as possible to our temple youth.
We received a very generous donation from Mary Bianco in honor of Fred’s 80thand Frieda’s birthday. This donation enabled us to create a new fund,
“Fund for Further Education”
This fund will enhance our Torah School, our Adult Education Program, and allow us to give Scholarships, as well as a scholarship prize for our Young Mensch award, Thank you so much for your continued generosity Mary!! This new fund will be open to our community for future donations to Education.
Our Recipient for 5778 is Samuel Salzman who started helping our community for his Bar mitzvah project, and he has never stopped, Sam worked on the Sukkah, playground, Drywall project, and many other tasks around our facility. Thank you so much for all your hard work Sam you are a great example and we all truly appreciate your effort.
Sam is the recipient of our Young Mensch Scholarship of $540 or CHAI (18) x 30 Mazal tov Sam!!
We invite all our youth to work towards achieving this wonderful award in the future.

-Rita and Jerome Becker
Co Presidents

The Marriage Reconsecration Ceremony

Members who are celebrating an anniversary of an increment of 5 (5,10, 15, 25, etc years) are invited to participate in the Marriage Reconsecration Ceremony. This June we had 3 couples celebrate under the chuppah:

Ron and Linda Becker

Bonnie and Bernie Weiss

Phyllis and Larry Caris

Our Silent Auction Winners!

Congratulations to all our participants in the silent auction featuring Julian Friedman's art.

Susan Aroner
Priestly Blessing

Peggy Rachel Baslo
Pianist on Parchment
The Law
Shema of us

Daniel Becker
Morning Prayer

Naomi Blakely
The Clown

John Carsel
Channukah Blessing

Mark Cohen
The Shema

Haddie Daner
Shema
Orange Shema

Diane Host
Ballerina

Allan & Frances Mayer
Sax Man

Rabbi Janice Mehring
Menorah

Sam Mogull
Teacher and student

Leslie Moss
The Altar

Rick Moss
Righteous Man

Mimi Naish
Candelabra

Mary Rose Niemi
Blue Heron

Tom O Malley
Time Remembered
Mother's Helper

Fannie Osran
Torso on Parchment

Hadley Osran
American Eagle
The Fighter
The Office

George Ramsdell
Bearded Man

Jackie Ramsdell
Flowers
The Law of
Red Shema

Roberta (No Last Name)
Torso on Wallpaper

Jacob Silverman
The Prayer 8/25

Larry Spielman
Boat Dock

Melany Spielman
Lighthouse
Carousel
Synagogue
Shema
The Temple

Cathy Stock
Boots

Weingarten Family
Blue Heron

Carrie White
Lighthouse

Finley White
Trolley

Chuck Wilkins
The Prayer + calligraphy

Yahrzeits

7/1
Beatrice Podover- Cousin of Jackie Zucker
Frances Miller- Grandmother of Jeff Zucker
7/3
John Forrest Lires- Father of Wendy Kim
Erin Patricia Lires- Sister of Wendy Kim
7/6
Nick Bensussen- Cousin of Linda Prior
7/7
Max Carol- May his memory be a blessing
7/10
Marilyn Slutzky- Sister of Paul Sacks
Eva Gerardis- Mother of Luana Alhadeff
Frances Forrester- Grandmother of Leslie Moss
Robert Mogull- Father of Michael Mogull
7/11
Wilfred Carsel- Father of Richard Carsel
7/13
Mary Kirchenstein- Stepmother of Phyllis Caris
7/15
Phillip Schechter- Father of Robert Schechter
Wolf Hirschfield- Father of Hilary Steiniger
7/18
Jo Roth- Aunt of Michael Aroner

7/19
Steven Sacks- Nephew of Paul Sacks
Terrence Jay Lortie- of blessed memory
7/21
Belle Rose Gilbert- Mother of Jayne Sacks
Elkan Hart- of blessed memory
7/23
Evelyn Goldstein- Mother of Arlene McDonald
7/24
Joshua Jerome Gross- Father of Naomi Blakely
Ann Olen- Aunt of Jayne Sacks
David Kreger- Cousin of Jayne Sacks
7/25
Robert F. Shapiro- Brother of Kenneth L. Shapiro
Floyd Rubin- Father of Nancy Osran
7/26
Carl M. Moore- of blessed memory
7/27
Florence Powell Kurtzman- Mother of Chip Kurtzman
7/30
Richard Gresham- Father of Gail Gresham

7/1 Jenny Gersh
7/2 Cayden Wemple
7/3 Daniel Barrera
Kari Freitas-Field
7/7 Muna Cristal
7/12 Ayla Madding

7/15 Margaret Frerking
7/17 Nathan Robasciotti
Ajai Daner
7/19 Theresa Hirsch
7/20 Katelin Silverman
7/24 Arianna Kurtzman

7/3 Bonnie & Bernie Weiss
7/20 Nitsan & Del Kolikant

7/20 Nancy & Hadley Osran
7/31 Sam & Mike Mogull

Support COT with your Amazon purchases!

Tzedakah - Thank you for your generosity
Please note that the Treasurer was out of office through May. Any donations not listed will be included in the July newsletter.

Jerome and Rita Becker
In honor of Fred Russell's 80th
In honor of Hilary and Peter Steiniger
In honor of Leslie and Rick Moss
In honor of Frieda Russell

Jayne and Paul Sacks
In honor of Fred Russell

Rick and Leslie Moss
In memory of Max Moss
In memory of Larry Hirsch

Michael & Susan Aroner
In honor of Fred Russell
In honor of Jerome and Rita Becker

Donna Weisz Jones
In honor of Fred Russell

Fred and Frieda Russell
In memory of Rosa Adler

Arlene McDonald
In memory of Larry Hirsch

Dolores McNeil
In memory of Larry Hirsch

Saul David
In memory of Larry Hirsch

Dana and John Sidder
Get on the Bus

Janine and Robert Dingler
In memory of Ralph Fox

Sharon George
To the Ritual Fund

Meta and John Nisbet
In honor of Mary Rose Niemi
In honor of Jonathon Castle Wedding

Carol Fine
To the General Fund

Naomi and David Blakely
In memory of Aunt Sylvia
In memory of Joshua Gross

Richard and Jan Carsel
In memory of Shirley Oser
In memory of Sophie Carsel

Larry Schiffer
In memory of Uncle Shepard Zafran

Doreen Jacobs
In memory of Sydney Brown
In memory of Earl Jacobs

Linda Gilbert
In honor of Fred Russell

Havurah
In memory of Larry Hirsch
In honor of Fred Russell

Mary Bianco
Fund for Further Education Grant
In honor of Fred and Frieda Russell

Thank You to Our Supporters

Congregation Ohr Tzafon
2605 Traffic Way
Atascadero, CA 93422

June Newsletter from COT

06/01/2018 03:09:06 PM

Jun1

This Monthly Newsletter contains A LOT of information. Please be sure to scroll down for Yahrzeits, Birthdays, and Anniversaries as well as board highlights and Temple Donations.

June, 2018 2605 Traffic Way, Atascadero, CA
805-466-0329 congregationcot@gmail.com

Rabbi's Message

The month of June is my birth month. On the Jewish calendar, June 16 begins the first day of Tammuz, named for the ancient Babylonian sun god. I don't think I would have chosen to be born in this month where the grass is drying up, the flowers are dropping and the astrological sign is the crab but the energy of this month is amazing. It is literally a force of nature - the sun. And because we Jews celebrate each month as an opportunity for growth and renewal, one has to wonder what could possibly be the renewing lesson for this hot crabby month of summer?
Jewish mystics teach that as the sun’s rays approach their summer's harshness, the heat from this powerful light can get misdirected, causing us humans to do very human things. We can get overheated, impatient, and quick to anger. Numerous studies have shown that crime rates actually spike during the summer months, a testament to this Jewish wisdom.
So our sages tell us to pay close attention to the emotional heat of Tammuz so that we don't lose ourselves in anger the way Moses lost his temper when he struck a rock impatiently demanding water from God. Yes, even Moshe Rabbeinu, Moses our Teacher, got overheated! Even our greatest prophets are human and make mistakes.
In her book, 'Kabbalah Month by Month', Melinda Ribner explains that the month of Tammuz is a time to “reach deep inside to muster our own resources and see if we have the inner strength and discernment to stay focused and on the spiritual path.” Tammuz is an endurance test to see if we can make it through the heat of the summer, and manage the heat of our passions. It is yet one more opportunity for reflection on our own power and on our own potential for growth.

June Calendar

6/1 5:30p Tot Shabbat
   6:30p Family Services
Rabbi Janice
6/8   7:30p Shabbat Services
Havurah
6/10 10:00 Torah School
   End of Year
   Party at Mogull's
6/9 7:00p Jews & Schmooze
Rick & Leslie Moss

6/12 10:30a Book Club
   F & F Russell
7:00p Board Meeting

6/15 7:30p Shabbat Services
Sharon George &
Joan Bloomfield
6/22 6:00p Potluck
     Teacher
   Appreciation
Young Mensch
     Award
   7:30p Shabbat Services
   Marriage
     Reconsecration
     Service & Board
   Installation
   Rabbi Janice

6/24 5:30p An Elegant
     Evening of Song
Rabbi Concert
6/26 7:00p Havurah
Rita Becker
  Men's Club
Mark Cohen

President's Thoughts from the General Membership Meeting:

It is with great pride that Rita and I have had the opportunity to serve our wonderful congregation as Co-Presidents this past year. We would like to thank our Board of Trustees for all their hard work. They have led our congregation with wisdom, made many improvements to our facility and worked hard to provide wonderful opportunities and events. We believe COT really has made a “mighty impact” in 5778.
We want to thank our wonderful Rabbi Janice for all her help, leadership and love for our community. Our community is vibrant and full of life and we look forward to you all getting to know each other, established and new members alike. As we have this wonderful influx of children, Rita and I will be focusing our attention on our education program in the coming year. We believe that our Jewish future IS our children and we must set the example for their learning by how we lead our everyday lives.
We have seen an increase in anti-Semitism in our world and community this past year. We hope every congregant will continue to share your wisdom and knowledge with our COT kids, the way to grow as Jews is to become involved in education.
When I think “Jewish” I think of Tzedakah (charity/justice), Tikkun Olam (social action/healing the world), and Bikkur Holim (caring for the sick). Let’s unite to help each other, in our own homes and to teach our neighbors in the broader community, in our children’s schools and sports teams how to be involved in these important Jewish values.
Rita and I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for making Ohr Tzafon a true shining light on the Central Coast. Our involvement and engagement in our community is an invaluable investment in our children and our future.
We look forward to an exciting and event filled year together.
L’Shalom,

Jerome and Rita Becker
Co-Presidents

Board Highlights
·

Treasurer out of town for May, financials will be presented in June
· New introduction to Judaism class started on May 2nd
· Israel Trip Itinerary complete
· Part time administrative assistant interview
· New High Holiday Machzors approved for 120 sets to match new Siddurs
· Our First golf day was a huge success thanks to Larry Caris and his team
· Rabbi Janice and Friends concert and dinner scheduled for June 24th, Rabbi Janice has many friends to join her, WE will have Pacific harvest cater an Italian Dinner.
· Jews and Schmooze will be on June 9that Rick and Leslie Moss RSVP Rick and Leslie
· Proposed Hertzog Winery Tour on July 8thbased on responses.
· New Slate approved
· New Budget approved
· Jewish Festival planned for Sunday October 14thLeslie Moss will chair committee, anyone interested can contact her.

Take note!

Rabbi Janice has a new email address for all COT business.

rabbijanice1@gmail.com

Please update your contact list.

Are you interested in becoming an adult Bar or Bat Mitzvah?
Contact Rabbi Janice if you are interested

JULY 2018 - JUNE 2019
COT MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY

Please check your listing in the current COT Membership Directory for corrections that you would like made in the 2018-2019 Directory.

Listed are the following:
Names, address, phone numbers (home, office, cell & fax), email, occupation (optional), and children living at home.

We would particularly like to update all email addresses, as email is an excellent way of communicating with our members.

If you have any corrections or additions, please contact Phyllis Caris by email larphyl@charter.net or phone 238-7404 by June 22nd.

Upcoming COT Events

Join us for a special Jews and Shmooze - Hanukat HaBayit

*****TORAH SCHOOL*****

END OF YEAR SWIM PARTY AT
ARI MOGULL'S HOUSE

June 10 - 10-12:30 pm

Bring your suit and towel and a snack to share
RSVP to Rabbi Janice

Beyond June

Last Month!

Fred Russell shares a laugh with
Melissa Trinidad and Diana Heller for their shared birthdays.

Yahrzeits

6/1
Arturo Robles- Father of David Robles
6/2
Julius Goldstein- Grandfather of Steve Weiss
6/3
Leopold Schiffer- Father of Larry Schiffer
Irving Drucker- Father of Howard Drucker
6/4
Irene Katz- Cousin of Paul & Jayne Sacks
6/5
Moe Gilbert- Uncle of Jayne Sacks
6/7
Rose Jacobson- Aunt of Jayne Sacks
6/8
Samuel Lyon Albaum- Father of Barbara Kurtzman
Pauline Carol- May her memory be a blessing
6/12
Rose Moss- Grandmother of Rick Moss
6/15
Estelle Weisz- Mother of Donna Weisz Jones

6/17
Carole Givant- Sister of Arlene McDonald
6/19
Esther Goldberg Stone- Mother of Rud Stone
6/20
Erna Steburg- Grandmother of Charles Wilkins
6/23
Leon Becker- Father Jerome Becker
Michael Salzman- Father of Steve Salzman
Sanders Levine- Uncle of Rick Moss
6/24
Gisella Friedman- Grandmother of Sharon George
6/26
Margaret S. Lowe- Mother of Jean Lowe
Sylvia Gross Sucher- Aunt of Naomi Blakely
Tricia Beers- May her memory be a blessing
6/28
Julius Mandelbaum- May his memory be a blessing
6/29
Leah Sheby- Grandmother of Linda Prior

6/2 Mark Cohen
6/4 Phillip Cohl
6/5 Kenneth L. Shapiro
6/8 Brandon David Hirsch
6/9 Daniel Padolsky
6/12 Meta Nisbet
6/15 Douglas Trinidad
6/17 Steve Weiss
6/19 Jackie Zucker
6/20 Wendy Kim
Barbara Kurtzman

6/21 Justin Burke Cohn
6/23 Michael Aroner
6/24 Robert Dingler
6/25 Zalman Robles
6/26 Kathy Cohl
6/27 Mimi Naishl
6/28 Rabbi Janice Mehring
6/29 Robyn Elliott
   Jerry Boots
6/30 Sylvia Drucker
   Hazel Hannah Hirsch

6/3 Fred & Frieda Russell
6/10 Cricket & Jerry Handler
6/16 Jackie & George Ramsdell
6/17 Cindy Dixon & Adam Levine
Steve & Sue Weiss

6/21 Kari & Jared Freitas-Field
6/22 Howard & Sylvia Drucker
Chip & Barbara Kurtzman

Welcome to our new Administrative Assistant!

We extend a warm welcome to our new assistant, Kate Silverman. A new comer to the Central Coast, and raised in Newport Beach CA, Kate is used to the sunshine but is now enjoying the new slower paced lifestyle and gorgeous views the Central Coast has to offer. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, photography and spending time with her husband and 3 rescue dogs. Kate is looking forward to gaining new friends within her Jewish community and is here to help in any way she can.“ Welcome Kate!

Community Announcements

Support COT with your Amazon purchases!

Tzedakah - Thank you for your generosity
Please note that the Treasurer was out of office through May. Any donations not listed will be included in the July newsletter.

Steve & Sue Wiess
In memory of Larry Hirsch

Michael & Susan Aroner
In honor of Robin Cohen
In memory of Joseph L. Aroner
In memory of Arthur Day
In Honor of Leslie and Rick Moss

Thank You to Our Supporters

Congregation Ohr Tzafon
2605 Traffic Way
Atascadero, CA 93422

May Newsletter from COT

05/01/2018 04:57:04 PM

May1

May, 2018 2605 Traffic Way, Atascadero, CA
805-466-0329 congregationcot@gmail.com

Rabbi's Message

Last month the Jewish people commemorated Yom Hashoah (Holocaust Memorial Day). We mourned those killed defending the people and State of Israel on Yom Hazikaron (Memorial Day) and we turned our mourning into celebration on Yom Haatzmaut (Israel's 70th Anniversary of Independence). All of these remembrances continue to be relevant in our time. A recent survey of US adults' knowledge of the Holocaust is troubling. 11% of US adults surveyed, and over one-fifth of the Millennials surveyed(22%), either have never heard about or are not sure if they have heard about the Holocaust. 41% of those same Millenials polled believe that only 2 million or fewer Jews will killed in the Holocaust.

Locally, we saw pictures of a Cal Poly student in blackface splashed across social media. The student pleaded ignorance as to the racist implications of that act but the response from the MultiCultural Center at Cal Poly saw it fit to conflate Zionism with racism. All of this highlights the importance of maintaining a strong Jewish presence in the community and continuing to educate, dialogue and advocate.

Deborah Lipstadt, professor of Modern Jewish History and Holocaust Studies at Emory University, recently said, "Danger of lack of knowledge of history is important. History shapes people's view of the present. I'm not saying that history always repeats itself or history's always the same. But if you don't know what came before, it's very hard to make wise decisions for the future."

We are moving toward our holiday of Shavuot, originally a harvest festival. A harvest requires reaping and sowing and even though few of us are connected to farming or working the land anymore, we can follow the words of the prophet Hoseah. "Sow for yourselves according to charity, but reap according to your loving-kindness" (Hoseah 10:12). We can all be educators and advocates and sow seeds of loving-kindness. Then we will surely reap the fruits of a world based on treating others with dignity, respect, kindness, and love.

May Calendar

5/2 12:00p Intro to Judaism

5/4 5:30p Light Dinner
for Fred Russell
6:30p  Family Services
Rabbi Janice
5/6 8:00a Rabobank Tourny
   9:30a Torah School

5/8 7:00p Board Meeting

5/9 12:00p Intro to Judaism

5/11 7:30p Shabbat Services
Rabbi Janice

5/16 12:00p Intro to Judaism

5/18 7:30p Shabbat Services
  Sharon George

5/20 9:30a Torah School
  12:00p Family Shavuot
   Lunch
   2:00p Yizkor Service

5/22 7:00p Havurah
A. McDonald
7:00p Men's Club
L. Schiffer

5/23 12:00p Intro to Judaism

5/25 7:30p Shabbat Services
Larry Caris

5/29 7:00 Gen. Membership
   Meeting

5/30 12:00p Intro to Judaism

Take note!

Rabbi Janice has a new email address
for all COT business.

rabbijanice1@gmail.com

Please update your contact list.

Are you interested in becoming an adult Bar or Bat Mitzvah?
Contact Rabbi Janice if you are interested

JULY 2018 - JUNE 2019
COT MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY

Please check your listing in the current COT Membership Directory for corrections that you would like made in the 2018-2019 Directory.

Listed are the following:
Names, address, phone numbers (home, office, cell & fax), email, occupation (optional), and children living at home.

We would particularly like to update all email addresses, as email is an excellent way of communicating with our members.

If you have any corrections or additions, please contact Phyllis Caris by email larphyl@charter.net or phone 238-7404 by June 22nd.

Upcoming COT Events

Board Highlights

The nominating committee is nearly finished with their work to present a slate of officers for next year. Next month, the complete slate will be brought to the board in preparation for the general meeting at the end of May.
The proposed contract with Rabbi Janice for next year was happily and unanimously approved by the board and will be brought forward to the general membership meeting.
After the general meeting, the board will move towards hiring a part time assistant to the Rabbi.
Proposed changes to the by-laws, to include certain specific board positions which are more generic in nature, will be voted on by the general membership at the annual meeting. If approved, these positions will be open to non-Jewish COT members.
the general membership meeting will be on May 29. Please be sure to attend!

Yahrzeits

5/1
Minnie Colman- Mother of Frances Mayer
5/2
Roza Adler- Aunt of Frieda Russell
5/3
Pat Elliott- Husband of Robyn Elliott
5/4
Arthur Day- Father of Susan Aroner
5/5
Harry Finkel- Uncle of Linda Prior
5/8
Ken Burgess- Step-father of Jeff Zucker
Max Moss- Grandfather of Rick Moss
Max Keer- Father of Ellen Weingarten
5/10
Tillie (Matilda) Finkel- Mother of Linda Prior
5/11
Joseph Tzvi Fried- Father of Tali Freed
5/13
Joseph L. Aroner- Father of Michael Aroner
Clifford Randall Rubin- Brother of Nancy Osran

5/14
Mary Pollack- Grandmother of Rabbi Janice Mehring
Ira Jacoves- Brother-in-law of Jayne & Paul Sacks
Ann Finkel - Aunt of Linda Prior
5/15
Stanley Sacks- Brother of Paul and Jayne Sacks
Janet Pace- Aunt of Elisabeth Madding
Edith Boxer- of blessed memory
5/16
Steven Craig- Son of Regene Craig
Ralph Fox- Father of Janine Dingler
5/19
Samuel Solish- Grandfather of Alfred Solish
5/23
Virginia Wise Marx- Mother of Mary Bianco
5/26
Isadore Kilbrick- Father of Natalie Stone
5/27
Sarah Blaustein- Aunt of Jackie Zucker
5/28
Shelley Blaustein- Cousin of Jackie Zucker

5/1 Sue Weiss
5/2 Melissa Trinidad
5/3 Diana Heller
Benjamin Robasciotti
Del Robasciotti
5/4 Fred Russell
5/5 Hilary Steiniger
5/6 Donna Weisz Jones
5/7 Mary Bianco
5/9 Phyllis Caris
5/13 Frieda Russell
5/15 Julie Mundee
5/16 Brian Alhadeff
5/17 Justin Gish

5/18 Ariela Trinidad
   Esther Salzman
5/19 Larry Schiffer
5/20 Isaak Kirschenstein
   Emma Kirschenstein
5/21 Hannah Proffitt
   Henry Hamilton
Kris Siegel
5/24 Steve Salzman
5/26 Eva Alhadeff
5/27 Elisabeth Madding
5/29 Paul Sacks
5/31 Michael Mogull

5/17 Tali Freed & Ken Doerr

5/24 Dawn & Adam Daner

Welcome New Members!

Pictured: Wade and Carrie White and their kids,
William and Wren next to Rabbi Janice. April 6 Shabbat Service

Pictured: Jordan and Manu Fiorentini and their daughters,
Morgane and Albawith next to Rabbi Janice. April 13 Shabbat Service

Community Announcements

Support COT with your Amazon purchases!

Tzedakah - Thank you for your generosity

Arlene McDonald
In memory of her father.

Jerome and Rita Becker
In memory of Susan da Silva.
Well wishes to Theresa Hirsch.
In memory of Carmen Froes.

Nachshon and Colleen Margalit
In memory of Nachshon's father.

Naomi Blakely
In gratitude of reading a portion during the Seder.

Fred and Frieda Russell
In memory of Dorothy Russell.

Susan and Michael Aroner
In memory of Melody Aroner Katz.

Cricket Handler
To the music fund.

Judith Bernstein
In memory of Miriam Greene

Joan Bloomfield
In memory of Phillip Bloomfield.

"Heart to Heart Real Estate company, owned by Mark McConnell and Liz Lee, donate half of their commission to a charity organization of
their customer's choice at close of escrow.
One of our member families have graciously selected our community to be the beneficiary of this awesome donation in the amount of $6,125.
Rita and I, on behalf of our congregation would like to take this opportunity to thank our member family as well as Mark and Liz for this wonderful gift.
This donation will go a long way in helping our community cover our running costs. Thank you!"
-Jerome Becker
Co-President

Thank You to Our Supporters

Congregation Ohr Tzafon
2605 Traffic Way
Atascadero, CA 93422

April Newsletter from COT

04/01/2018 08:03:01 AM

Apr1

April, 2018 2605 Traffic Way, Atascadero, CA
805-466-0329 congregationcot@gmail.com

Rabbi's Message

Once upon a time, there was a little boy who was bullied for being Jewish. After that early encounter, the little boy grew up to create a method of speaking to others called Nonviolent Communication (NVC). Marshall Rosenberg understood what a difference it makes to “guard one’s tongue” and the importance of taking care in how we use our words.

Nonviolent Communication provides tools to bring more kindness, respect, and empathy to our speech. Rosenberg believed that people respond harshly, callously, or even aggressively to each other when we don’t hear each others’ needs. Therefore, at the center of NVC are the values of empathy for others, self-empathy and honest self-expression.

At Passover, we read about Moses and how he spoke to Pharaoh, demanding the Children of Israel be set free. Though Moses was born with a speech impediment, he was the one chosen to be our spokesman. It is hard to imagine how Moses rose to that challenge and was able to speak so powerfully and courageously despite his own shortcomings and insecurities. But his example of doing just that can guide us as we raise our own voices to challenge injustice and to speak up for what we know is right.

As we affirm our freedom (both physical and spiritual) during this Passover season, let us consider our speech. How can we express ourselves more clearly and compassionately? How can we speak up about injustices and make sure that we’re heard? What must we say and how must we say it in order to be free?

Wishing you all a Happy Passover,
Rabbi Janice

For more information on NonViolent Communication

April Calendar

4/4 6:30p Intro to Judaism
4/6 5:30p Tot Shabbat
6:30p  Family Services
Rabbi Janice
4/7 6:30 Yizkor Service
   Rabbi Janice

4/8 9:30a Torah School
4:30p Yom HaShoah Program

4/10 7:00p Board Meeting

4/11 6:30p Intro to Judaism

4/13 7:30p Shabbat Services
Rabbi Janice

4/15 2:00p JCC Israel Festival

4/20 7:30p Shabbat Services
Naomi Blakely

4/22 9:30a Torah School

4/24 7:00p Havurah
   C. Handler's home
   7:00p Men's Club

4/27 7:30p Shabbat Services
   Ron Becker

Our COT building is ready for Passover. Please do not bring any chametz into the building for the duration of the holiday - from Friday morning, March 30 through sunset on April 7. Chametz refers to any food created by allowing grain (specifically wheat, oat, spelt, rye or barley) and water to ferment and rise—most commonly referred to as “leaven.”

Upcoming COT Events

Please join us for Yizkor Service
April 7, 6:30 pm led by Rabbi Janice

COT Youth Group Fundraiser - April 30

Our youth group is hosting a fundraiser at the
Tastee-Freez and Wienerschnitzel in Atascadero on
Monday, April 30, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
8950 Montecito Avenue, Atascadero
(next to K-Man Cycle and Run

20 percent of your purchase goes to our youth group who are purchasing teddy bears for Get on the Bus, a program that brings children from all over California to see their incarcerated dads at CMC.

Mention Congregation Ohr Tzafon when you place your order!
Thank you to John and Dana Sidders for your generosity.

Join us for services on April 13, 7:30 pm
as we welcome a guest speaker, Katie Farmer.
Katie will tell us about the Get on the Bus program
and how we can help.

Board Highlights

1. The Board agreed to survey the membership on a few topics. Stay tuned as your feedback is important.
2. Israel trip March 10-19/20 2019. Next planning meeting will be posted soon.
3. Seminar presented by Phil Cohl and Fred Russell to inform interested members of a way to donate “Tax Free” equities and IRA’s to our Temple is upcoming.
4. Upcoming Fundraisers: The COT golf tournament is May 6th with generous sponsorship by Rabobank and others. Contact Larry Caris for details.
5. Yom Hashoah observation April 8. See flyer for details.

Yahrzeits

4/2
Louis Donnefeld- Uncle of Jeff Zucker
Miriam Green- Aunt of Judith Bernstein
4/9
Bronia Weiss -Grandmother Steve Weiss
Aaron Simon - Grandfather Jessica Hamilton
4/10
Suzanne DaSilva - Sister of Rita Becker
Lillian Levine - Aunt of Rick Moss
Sandra Boxer - of blessed memory
4/11
Sophie Carsel - Mother of Richard Carsel
Philip Trevor - cousin of Linda Prior
4/12
Leonard Marx - father of Mary Bianco
Betty Mandelbaum- of blessed memory
4/13
Bertha May Doerr - Mother of Ken Doerr
Phillip Finkel - uncle of Linda Prior
Roslyn Cohl - Mother of Phil Cohl
4/14
George Solish - Father of Alfred Solish
Sara Golde - Mother of Regene Craig
4/15
Raphael Sheby - Grandfather Linda Prior
Margaret Sloss- Grandmother Jean Lowe
4/16
Melody Aroner Katz -Sister of Michael Aroner

4/17
Shepard Zafran - Uncle of Larry Schiffer
4/18
Fannie Finkel- Grandmother Linda Prior
4/20
Ann Finkel - Aunt of Linda Prior
4/21
Shirley Oser- Mother of Jan Carsel
Herman Brown - Grandfather Jackie Zucker
4/22
Carmen Froes - Grandmother Rita Becker
Jonathan Jacoves - Nephew Jayne Sacks
4/23
Louis Stone - Father of Rudyard Stone
Beatrice Simon - Grandmother of Jessica Hamilton
4/24
Susan Mogull - Mother of Michael Mogull
4/25
Phillip Bloomfield- Father of Joan Bloomfield
Rose Caris - Mother of Larry Caris
4/26
Adelaide Baron - Mother of Judith Baron
4/29
Jackson Alberts - Nephew of Jayne Sacks
4/30
Zalman Scherer - Father of Dawn Daner and Michelle Robles

4/3 Daniel Solish
4/6 Irwin Shelub
4/7   Grace Mundee
   Carrie White
   Camille Hamilton
4/17  Violet Gish
4/18 Karen Wilkins
   Drew Daner
   Haddie Daner

4/20 Robin Cohen
4/21 Filip Yeskel
4/22 Steve Gersh
   Makenna Freitas
4/29 Patricia Schechter
   Noah Dingler

4/6 Jayne and Paul Sacks
4/8 Leslie and Rick Moss
4/17 Jan and Richard Carsel

4/22 Ron and Linda Becker
4/22 Theresa and Larry Hirsch

Welcome New Members!

Join us as we welcome these new members!

At Family Shabbat services, April 6, 6:30 pm
Wade and Carrie White and their kids,
William and Wren.

At Shabbat Services, April 13, 7:30 pm
Jordan and Manu Fiorentini and their daughters,
Morgane and Alba

Community Announcements

JCC Hosts a movie night in North County!

2 short films will be shown April 9 at a private home theater in Atascadero. There will be two screenings (5:30 pm and 7:00 pm) with a reception in between. Please contact Frieda Russell for reservation as seating is limited to 24 people per screening.

A documentary about an endangered species, the homemade gefilte fish. Follow three generations of gefilte fish makers from hand choppers to Cuisinart users.

An inspirational and uplifting story about Alice Herz Sommer, a famous pianist from Prague who was at her death the world's oldest Holocaust survivor. She discusses music, laughter and how to remain optimistic come what may.

Support COT with your Amazon purchases!

Tzedakah - Thank you for your generosity

Michael and Susan Aroner

Leslie and Rick Moss

Arlene McDonald

Theresa and Larry Hirsch

Bonnie and Bernie Weiss

Phyllis and Larry Caris

Rita and Jerome Becker

In memory of Mildred Day, Susan's mother
In honor of Rabbi Janice for officiating so beautifully at our grandson's Bar Mitzvah
In memory of Art Toberman, COT member and friend

In memory of Joseph Levine
In memory of Bunny Levine

In memory of my dad, Harold Gold

In memory of William Cullen
In thanks to my COT family for all the love and support

For all our friends and family needing refuah - we are thinking of you and our prayers are ongoing.

In honor of Noah Telford, Michael and Susan Aroner's grandson, on becoming a Bar Mitzvah
In memory of Bea Casden, Michael Aroner's aunt

In honor of Rabbi Janice's new home
Sending healing prayers to John Sidders
Sending healing prayers to Hillary Steiniger

Thank You to Our Supporters

Congregation Ohr Tzafon
2605 Traffic Way
Atascadero, CA 93422

March Newsletter from COT

03/01/2018 04:58:26 PM

Mar1

March, 2018 2605 Traffic Way, Atascadero, CA
805-466-0329
congregationcot@gmail.com

We are trying a new format this month for our newsletter!
Feel free to send feedback to our co-presidents as we are giving our fearless editor the month off.

Rabbi's Message
I am very excited to share that COT will be participating in The Butterfly Project on March 11. This program teaches about the Holocaust through age appropriate lessons of the dangers of hatred and bigotry, and through the painting of ceramic butterflies. These butterflies are permanently displayed around the world to memorialize each of the 1.5 million children who perished in the Holocaust. We welcome Arlene Keyes, child of a survivor, educator with this program and bubbe to Hannah (one of our Tot Shabbat regulars) to come and teach COT adults and children.

The result will be our own permanent installation of handmade ceramic butterflies that will become part of the collective goal of 1.5 million butterflies displayed around the world, a global memorial symbolizing renewed life. Don't forget to RSVP to Leslie.

To learn more, click on these links:
The Butterfly Project

Film: "Not the Last Butterfly"

MARCH Calendar

3/2 5:30p Tot Shabbat
6:30p  Family Services
Rabbi Janice

3/7 6:30p Intro to Judaism

3/9 7:30p Shabbat Services
   Larry Caris

3/11 9:30a Torah School
2:00p  Butterfly Project

3/13 7:00p Board Meeting

3/16 7:30p Shabbat Services
Rabbi Janice

3/18 9:30a Torah School

3/20 10:30a Book Club
   Joan Bloomfield

3/21 6:30p Intro to Judaism

3/23 7:30p Shabbat Services
   Rick/Leslie Moss

3/25 12:30 Texas Hold Em

3/27 7:00p Havurah @ COT
   Matza Centerpieces

   7:00p Men's Club

3/30 7:30p Shabbat Services
   Leslie Moss

3/31 5:30p Community Seder

Upcoming COT Events

Community Seder Texas Hold Em Tournament
Make your reservations now!

Purim 5778! Fun was had by all!

Board Highlights

1. Financials look great. An assistant treasurer is being sought. Please contact Jerome or Rita if you are interested or if you have a suggestion.
2. Drywall of west wall in the sanctuary is the first step in the eventual installation of stained glass windows. Thanks to all involved in bringing this lovely project to fruition.
3. Israel trip – March 2019. Please let Rabbi Janice know if you are interested in traveling with our COT family. Still fine tuning the itinerary.
4. New members - We have 3 new families who have become members.
5. Judaica Store - If there is an item you would like to see in our store, please send an email or call Nancy Osran.

Yahrzeits

3/1
Jeff Surnow - Cousin of Jayne Sacks
3/2
Marilyn K. Winer - Sister of Natalie Stone
3/4
Joseph Levine - Uncle of Rick Moss
3/9
Leon Stein - Father of Carol Hoffman
Marion Stein - Mother of Carol Hoffman
Mildred Day - Mother of Susan Aroner
Nina Ruffino - Friend of Robles Family
3/14
Lily Taylor - Of blessed memory
3/17
Harold Gold - father of Arlene McDonald
3/20
Lillian Shapiro - Mother of Ken Shapiro

3/21
Jordan Kilbrick- brother of Natalie Stone
3/22
Rahel Margalit - Grandmother of Nachshon Margalit
3/23
Estelle Diamant - Cousin of Sharon George
Ginna Toberman - Of blessed memory
3/25
Dorothy Russell - Mother of Fred Russell
3/26
Charlotte Klein - Mother of Sylvia Drucker
3/27
William Cullen - Father of Theresa Hirsch
3/29
Baruch Margalit - Father of Nachshon Margalit

3/2 Kimberly Kurtzman
   Nancy Osran
3/3 Herman Weisberg
3/5 Jayne Sacks
3/8 Nathan Trinidad
   Arlene McDonald
   Alfred Solish

3/9 Michelle Robles
3/16 George Wilkins
3/17 Ron Field
3/24 Mindy Proffitt
3/28 Rita Becker
3/31 Josh Burke

3/2 Julie and Bill Mundee
3/16 Kathy and Phil Cohl
3/24 Mindy and Derek Proffitt

3/29 Naomi and David Blakely
Frances and Allan Mayer

Announcements

GOT KOSHER? Are you frustrated with trying to find a kosher chicken, gluten free matzo or other Jewish foods in our local supermarkets? Joan Bloomfield is working with the Atascadero Vons manager, Steve Sistler. If there is something you'd like to see the store carry, contact Joan!

Invitation to Participate in Research Study

Arlee Boyett is a fourth-year student at New College of Florida, and is conducting a survey for her bachelor’s degree thesis project in Psychology Her focus is experiences of antisemitism, Jewish ethnic identity, and conversion to Judaism. She is asking for participants to complete her survey. All responses are completely anonymous. If you are interested, here is a link to her survey:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/L589JV6

Tzedakah - Thank you for your generosity

Michael and Susan Aroner In memory of Dr. Stuart Cohn
In memory of Bea Casden
   In memory of Art Toberman
In honor of Natalie Stone's 90th birthdaty
In honor of Natalie and Rud Stone's 69th anniversary
   In honor of Rud Stone's birthday

Rick and Leslie Moss In memory of Sherman Westrich
   In memory of Jack Moss
   In honor of Rabbi Janice's new home

Sharon George In honor of Rabbi Janice's new home