Thursday, 11 March 2010 09:19 am

Daf Hashavuah

SCHEDULE FOR THE UPCOMING WEEK AT CBI
Week of March 6, 2010/Adar 20, 5770

WEEKDAY SERVICES
Shacharit
Morning service Monday-Friday: 6:30 am
Late morning service Tuesday & Friday: 8:00 am
Sunday Morning Service: 8:00 am

NOTE: Beth Israel joins with the Berkeley Chabad in an effort to maintain a weekday minyan. Mincha and Ma’ariv are held at Chabad house, 2643 College Ave. This week, Sunday through Thursday, March 7-11, it meets at 5:50 p.m. 

KIDDUSH SPONSORS
Congregation Beth Israel and the Shabbat Shalem Team warmly invite the community to a free communal lunch.

SHABBAT  SHABBAT  KI TISA PARSHAT PARAH
SHABBAT SHALEM
YCT ON TOUR SCHOLAR IN RESIDENCE R. NATHANIEL HELFGOT
Friday & Saturday, March 5th-6th

This program is sponsored by Yeshivat Chovevei Torah Rabbinical School
and the Legacy Heritage Fellowship for YCT Alumni.
We especially thank YCT’s and Legacy Heritage’s continuous educational support
of our very own Legacy Heritage Fellow 
R. Max Davis

Northside Minyan @ Sudikoff home 5:30 p.m.
    1209 Shattuck Ave. (east side of street, past Live Oak Park, near Eunice )
Rabbi Helfgot will be present at the Northside Minyan and will speak following the service and refreshments.
     Topic: *Four Models of Religious Zionism and Their Message for Today
*This topic will be presented again at Seudah Shlishit (see below)
Post lecture dinners will be hosted by the Hendon, Rosen, and Sudikoff families. To sign up for a meal contact our Office or use this link:
https://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=0AkNd16T0VCCcdDdrUmN0d1pLRFFEQ3YtcUlHdjByRlE&hl=en
Candle Lighting 5:49p.m.
Mincha & Kabbalat Shabbat @ CBI 5:50p.m.
Morning Service 9:15 a.m.
Early Childcare 9:30 a.m.
Torah Readers—Dani Kazhdan, Jonah Boyarin 10:00 a.m.
Haftorah Reader—Chanan Alexander 10:20 a.m.
Educational Youth Program  10:30 a.m.
This Shabbat for the first time, we're expanding to three youth groups.  Groups will focus on themes a propos of the Shabbat Shalem theme, Five Books of Torah.
     Yeladim - Laura Lipman
     Talmidim alef - R. Max Davis
     Talmidim bet - Lou Schubert
    Yard Supervisor - Molly Greenberg
Rabbi Helfgot will speak following services 11:45 a.m.
     Topic: Biblical Characters - Super Heroes or Heroic Human Beings?
Free Communal Lunch
12:30 p.m.
Rabbi Helfgot will speak after the meal 1:15 p.m.
     Topic:  Halakah and Ethics - What Do We Do When the Two Collide?
Mincha Service:  2:15 PM
Seudah Shlishit (Third Meal) 5:00 PM, hosted by the Elias family
To spread Torah to all corners of the community, Rabbi Helfgot will repeat his Friday night talk Four Models of Religious Zionism and Their Message for Today during the meal.
Mincha Munchies at the Massaranos, 530pm. for grades 4-6.
Shabbat ends after 6:47 pm
 
 
CLASS SCHEDULE:
Sunday
9:00-10:00 am Sunday Morning Talmud Class. A class structured to appeal to Talmud students of all levels. Does not meet this week. 
Prof. Daniel Boyarin

Monday
9:00 a.m. Talmudic Wisdom.
Join us on Mondays at 9:00 a.m., for a weekly class that explores key sugyot (Talmudic units) that discuss major Jewish questions of practice and thought.
Here is a sample of topics:
1. Does the observance of commandments require kavvanah (intention)?  (Rosh Hashana 28b)
2. How important is human dignity?  (Berachot 19b
-20a)
3. Can one perform a mitzvah with something stolen?  (Sukkah 29b-30a)
4. What is the reward for observing the commandments? (Kiddushin 39b)
5. What is the status of a conversion for the sake of marriage?  (Yevamot 24b)
6. Are there cases where one is exempt from human liability but still liable before God?  (Baba Kamma 55b-56a)
7. Is it possible to acquire lost property?  (Baba Metziah 21a-22b)
8. What is the Jewish attitude toward verbal deception? (Baba Metziah 48b)
9. Why do we say berachot of thanks?  (Berachot 35a)
10. Should Torah study be combined with earning a living?  (Berachot 35b)
11. Does a person have an obligation to act beyond the requirements of the law? (Baba Kama 98-99 selections).
R. Yonatan Cohen

4:15-5:45 pm Midrasha's Tanach & Talmud (for Teens). This course is an informal but intensive study group focusing on close thematic readings of the Tanach and Talmud in translation. The class will continue weekly except for Jewish holidays and school vacations.
David Henkin

Tuesday
8:00 pm Exploring The New Koren Siddur. An exploration of the new Koren Sacks Siddur, the first new Orthodox  prayer book in a generation. An intuitive design in the renowned tradition of Koren Publishers Jerusalem helps reveal the traditional text’s inner  meaning. A beautiful translation, eloquent introduction  and insightful commentary by R. Jonathan Sacks deepen understanding of the purpose and possibility of prayer. Please note the March 9 class has been cancelled.
R. Yonatan Cohen

Wednesday
10:00 -12:30 pm Merkavah Institute: Explore the Books of the Prophets, Kings II -Spring Semester 2010,
Tuition:  Sliding Scale $130-$180 per semester, Scholarships available. (Wednesday Evening classes to begin March 2010) Questions Contact Nell 510-292-0175 or  merkavahberkeley@gmail.com
Dalia Davis, February 17, 24 & March 3,10,17,24 @10:00 am

6:30-7:30 pm Intro to Judaism. Whether you are new to Judaism or seeking to brush up on your facts, join our weekly study and shmooze sessions exploring Jewish faith, customs, history, and holidays.  Lively discussion and seventeen Q & A sheets guide us throughout the year as we cover major units on Prayer & Shul, Ideology & Belief, Kashrut, Shabbat, and Holidays.  Come for the entire course or simply drop in for topics of greatest personal interest.  All skill backgrounds and skill levels welcome.
R. Max Davis

8:00 pm Jewish writings of the French post-modern philosopher Emmanuel Levinas. The Levinas Study Group will be meeting at 8PM on the 1st, 2nd and 4th Wednesday to discuss selections from his “Nine Talmudic Readings." The class is facilitated by our resident scholar, Muni Schweig.
Muni Schweig - 1st, 2nd & 4th Wednesdays.

7:30pm-9:30pm Merkavah Institute: The Life of King David. Explore key moments in the life of King David –his triumphs, challenges and kingship. At the home of Dalia Davis, 2208 McGee Apt 2, Berkeley CA 94703 (between Allston & Bancroft) Tuition Sliding Scale: $90-$130. Student Discounts & Scholarships Available. All levels welcome. For more information contact Nell 510.292.0175 or merkavahberkeley@gmail.com
Six classes March 10, 17, 24 & April 14, 21, 28

Thursday
12:15 p.m. Heavenly Torah Through the Generations. The world of rabbinic thought can be divided into two major schools of thought; Rabbi Akiva and Rabbi Ishmael. The historic disputes between these two schools are based on fundamental differences over the nature of revelation and religion. Join Rabbi Cohen for an in-depth study, based on Rabbi A. J. Heschel’s Heavenly Torah.
R. Yonatan Cohen

8:00 p.m. Ethical Wills: The increasing interest in Jewish Ethical Wills is demonstrated by the recent publication of three books dealing with the topic. I propose to discuss the history and function of Ethical Wills, provide guidance for those who wish to prepare one, such as style, coverage and distribution, and discuss Ethical Wills by important (and some not so important) Jewish figures. The class could be extended if participants thought it useful.
Justin Sweet - Thursdays, March 4, 11, 18, at 8:00 p.m.

ANNOUNCEMENTS 

Gan Shalom Mishloach Manot Thank You's:
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT VOLUNTEER AWARD AND GIGANTIC THANKS to Michael Feiner-
who though his own children have long since grown out of Gan- has tirelessly committed himself to this wonderful fundraising project. THANKS THANKS THANKS!!!
For coordinating: Deb Fink
For putting together all of the maps and labels for the drivers: Michelle Grunfelder
For driving and delivering packages: Sara Bamberger, Melita Doostan, Shari Gleicher, Dan Roisman, Greg Ruthenberg, Paul Sas

Purim Thank You's!

Purim Decorations:
Kathleen Bloom; R. Max Davis; Benjamin Norton; Leah Safran; Barbara Schubert
Purim Shoppers: Bella Barany; R. Yonatan Cohen; Nae Golomb; Jacob Heitler; Janice Mac Millan; John Pilkington
BBQ sponsors: Benjamin Darmoni; Yedidya Etzion & Michal Rivlin; Amichai & Tali Grossman; Yakov & Rena Harari; Sara Schnittman; Eric & Rachel Seder
We also thank the many anonymous donations that helped defray our costs
Setup:
Bella Barany; Nimrod & Aliza Elias; Scott Feigelson; Nae Golomb; Sabroma Kabella; Ory Sandel ( & Talya & Gaby); Donald & Gina Yoffe;
BBQ Shifts: Noah Alper; Amos Bitzan; Amichai Grossman; Steve Silberblatt; Noam Turgeman
Cleanup: Noah & Hope Alper; Bella Barany; Alan Finkelstein & Leslie Valas; Sabrina Kabella; Steve Silberblatt & Rita Kohl; Joelle Yzquierdo

Chag Shalem Team Thank You:
R. Cohen, R. Davis, Nimrod Elias, Jacob Heitler, Saul Miranda, Leah Safran, Ory Sandel
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R. Eliahu Klein’s  Reb Nachman class
continues this Saturday night, 8 pm (really—we will start then!) with an exploration of Reb Nachmans teachings for ....PESACH!!!
1194 Carrison Street, Berkeley, 510-540-5805

You’re Invited… 

To an evening of music and discussion
with friends from Israel! 
“Hear dichotomies dissolving” 
Trends in contemporary Israeli society through music  
Presenter:  Daniel Segel 
Dr. Daniel Segel was born in the US. His family made aliyah in 1973. Since writing his thesis in theoretical physics he has been working on image processing. He has been listening to music for several hours a day ever since he was forced to study in high school. He is a popular lecturer and slapstick comedian in the rare occasions in which he does so. He lives with Ruti and their five children in the Galilee; the hill where the Mishnah was compiled is directly opposite their back garden. 
Daniel will give a talk on the phenomenon of Israelis coming back to their Jewish roots through music,  “shiva lameqorot.” He will present recordings of songs, providing lyrics  as a counterpoint to his remarks.  
Daniel's talk will be followed by a brief a cappella performance 
from members of our community, led by Natan Kuchar
Date &Time: Motzei Shabbat March 6,  8 o'clock, p.m. Place:  Maison Massarano, 1709 Sacramento St., across from North Berkeley BART

THE WOMEN’S GROUP, aka Sisterhood 5770—Upcoming Events

Congregation Beth Israel together with the CBI Sisterhood Present:
A Brunch, Nosh, & Schmooze with Beth Israel's own
Noah Alper
Sunday, March 7, at 10:00 a.m.
Free and Open to the Public

Founder of Noah's Bagels and Author of "Business Mensch"
Interviewed by Bill Schechner long time Bay Area news reporter
Brunch will feature a rich selection from Berkeley's Metropolis Baking Company, with a chance to schmooze with Robin Alexander, Head Baker and Partner at the bakery.

A serial entrepreneur, Noah Alper is the founder of six ventures, including two mega-successful food businesses—the West Coast Noah's New York Bagels chain and the East Coast natural foods chain Bread & Circus, now owned by Whole Foods. He is now a consultant to aspiring entrepreneurs, advisor to business school students, and a dynamic motivational speaker. His experience includes concept creation, marketing, retailing, food service and sales management.

  • Book Group: Our next meeting is scheduled for Sunday, March 14 at 10:30 am in the CBI library.  We will discuss Anne Frank: The Book, the Life, the Afterlife by Francine Prose, available in the CBI office. Please make an effort to arrive on time, 
EVENTS AT AFIKOMEN
MARCH 7th
Ira Steingroot, author of "Keeping Passover",
will dazzle you with his expert knowledge of the  Haggadah, its history, and its many variations.  A maven of Jewish culture, Ira will intrigue you with his insights…including a foray into the Pagan roots of the holiday and ideas for creating a personal and unique seder.

MARCH 14th
New Moon Illuminations with Chaim Mahgel, Owner, Afikomen Judaica.
  Kabbalistic insights into the character of each Hebrew Month. Theme for Nison:  Taking Ourselves Beyond Limitations.  With special added discussion of the Feng Shui of the Seder Plate to help enliven your Passover table conversation!
All events take place Sunday 3-5pm (unless otherwise noted) At Afikomen Judaica 3042 Claremont Avenue (near Ashby), Berkeley 510-655-1977, www.afikomen.com
Midrasha in Berkeley has a gift for you.  We would like to invite you to join us for our annual “Midrasha Seudah” which will be held on Sunday, March 14, at 5 p.m. at Congregation Netivot Shalom.  Our speaker is Frances Dinkelspiel, the author of Towers of Gold: Isaias Hellman, Banking, and the Role Jews Played in the Development of California.   But don’t just come for the speaker, come for the food and wine, which will be delicious, or for the jazz guitar in the background with Howard Barkan, or for the introductory remarks by alumna Rachel Finkelstein, Class of 2004.  There’s something for everyone.  Tickets can be purchased from the Midrasha office, 843-4667.  Please let us know by March 1 if you can be with us.  Thanks, Diane

NCSY Upcoming Events 
JR. AND SR. NCSY FOOD FUN- MARCH 14TH AT 5:30PM –AT BETH JACOB
Come stretch your stomach, eat competitively, portion controlled timed contest, and win a prize! Who can eat a whip cream pie quickest without hands? Who can eat 3 hotdogs and buns quickest? Come find out!
JR. NCSY SHABBATON-APRIL 16TH AT 4:30 PM – APRIL 18TH  AT 12 AM
Come spend an amazing Shabbos in Berkeley as we have a fun filled Shabbos.
Saturday Night Make your own pizza and prepare yourselves for the NCSY fun house!
Sign up and get more information at: http://tinyurl.com/yhxabtq

Hold the Date for CBI's Annual Dinner: June 6.

Details to follow.  Mark your calendars now!

 


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Merkavah Torah Institute classes for women

Talmud Program
In-depth text study and skill building.
Tuesday and Thursday
9:30am-12:30pm
Haggigah - Year 2009-2010
September 8, 2009 – May 6, 2010
Tuition:
Sliding Scale $950-$1800 year

Explore the Books of the Prophets, Kings II -Spring Semester 2010,
Wednesday 10:00am-12:30pm, February 17, 24 & March 3,10,17,24

Tuition:  Sliding Scale $130-$180 per semester, Scholarships available.

*Scholarships available* *Student discounts* *No one turned away for lack of funds*

Nell Mahgel-Friedman
Program Director
510-292-0175
merkavahberkeley@gmail.com
"The mission of Merkavah Torah Institute is to build accessible, inspiring and vigorous opportunities for Jewish women to engage in the study of classical Jewish texts and philosophy.

We believe that women’s in depth engagement with classical Jewish texts will give them the tools to enhance their own Jewish connection, lead richer more empowered Jewish lives, teach others, and step into leadership roles in the community. Merkavah is rooted in the belief that inspiring and educating Jewish women will uplift and strengthen the entire Jewish community." Israel Focus is designed to inform our members about a broad range of local area events concerning Israel.  It is expected that you will find events that you would support and others that you would not, yet we trust that they will all inform.  Beth Israel does not necessarily endorse any particular event. 

Israel Focus
For your interest, information, protest, or counter-protest

Sunday, March 7th, 7:00 – 9:00 pm
Israeli Dancing Class with Sharon Bleviss
Congregation B’nai Emunah – 3595 Taraval St @ 46th Avenue, San Francisco
Cost: Free
Contact: Sharon Bleviss at 415.664.7373 or office@bnaiemunahsf.org
 
Wednesday, March 10th, 7:00 – 10:30 pm
Aliyah Mega Event

Meet with Nefesh B’Nefesh staff, Israeli government representatives and professionals from various fields. Join Aliyah workshops on employment, communities, taxes, education and more... all under one roof.
San Francisco Marriot Marquis – 55 Fourth St, San Francisco
Info & Register: http://www.nbn.org.il/megaevent/

Thursday, March 11th,10:00 pm
The Idan Raichel Project

Come out for a live show from one of Israel’s leading artists. With an enchanting blend of African, Latin American, Caribbean and Middle Eastern sounds coupled with sophisticated production techniques, the multicultural collaboration spearheaded by Idan firmly established him as a new type of Israeli pop star.
Oshman Family JCC 3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto
Cost: $55 Center Members, $60 Non-members in advance, $65 Non-members at door
Contact: Katie Chapin at kchapin@paloaltojcc.org

Saturday, March 13th
Film Screening: “A Summer Rain”

As part of LUNAFEST, short films by women, this film depicts a young Israeli immigrant struggling in the U.S.
Contra Costa College – 2600 Mission Bell Drive, San Pablo
Cost: $10 - $20
Info: http://www.lunafest.org

Every Friday, 12-1 pm
Counter to Berkeley Women in Black by San Francisco Voice for Israel

Bancroft and Telegraph in Berkeley (right outside UC Berkeley)   http://www.sfvoiceforisrael.org/

Do you support Israel? Are you fed up with calls to boycott Israeli goods and services? Want to do something about it? Sign up for BUYCOTT ALERTS today. We'll alert you when a boycott initiative needs to be countered, and we'll let you know the results of every BUYCOTT action. http://www.buycottisrael.ca/form.php

We invite you to submit announcements for inclusion in Israel Focus to the office at office@cbiberkeley.org
Announcements will be edited for length (maximum of 5 lines) and content (to comply with the Announce List Guidelines).




1630 Bancroft Way, Berkeley, CA 94703   |   Directions   |   Congregation Office: (510) 843-5246   |   contact@cbiberkeley.org