In This Issue:

1. A NOTE FROM HOWARD
2. TAS Food and Clothing Drive
3. SUPPORT/JOIN TAS SMALL INTEREST GROUPS
4. Sukkah Building UPDATE
5. OCTOBER MONTHLY MEETING: MISSIONS TO MARS on OCT 11
6. IN CLOSING

1. A NOTE FROM HOWARD

To my friends in The Men of TAS and our temple,

Every year we celebrate our Jewish and secular new year’s holidays with gratitude for the past year and hopes and dreams for a happy and healthy coming year.  This Rosh Hashana is no different but it is completely unique.  While it has been very difficult for many, we finish the last year knowing that our friends and family have successfully met the challenges life has brought us.  One of the things that have made it easier has been the online gatherings we have enjoyed together through MoTAS and temple activities.  Whether we like to Zoom or not, we enjoy seeing the faces of our friends.  The coming year may bring more of the same, at least for a while, but we can look forward to our frequent comradery via our interaction online.  We know that we are there for each other and there are so many we call our friends who wish us well.  I hope that the coming year is good to you and your families and that it is not too long before we can enjoy each other’s company together again. La Shana Tova!

Howard Miller
President, The Men of Temple Ahavat Shalom

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2. TAS Food and Clothing Drive

Our temple’s Social Action committee, led by Judy Stehr, is asking everyone to help collect food and gently used clothing for those in need.  Herea are all the instructions necessary to help our community.  The date to deliver these items to the temple is Sunday September 27 between 2-4pm. [Sorry this is in all caps — that’s how the folks that made the flyer had it.]

TAS HIGH HOLIDAY
“DRIVE UP” FOOD & CLOTHING COLLECTION & POST CARDS
SEPTEMBER 27TH BETWEEN 2 AND 4 PM IN THE TAS PARKING LOT

• FOOD FOR SOVA – FILL YOUR GROCERY BAGS WITH NON-PERISHABLES
• CASUAL CLOTHING & SHOES FOR MEND (Meet Each Need with Dignity): ONLY WASHED CLOTHING AND USABLE SHOES FOR MEN, WOMEN, CHILDREN & INFANTS
• BUSINESS CLOTHING & SHOES FOR LA FAMILY HOUSING:  ONLY CLEAN, DRY CLEANED OR WASHED ITEMS FOR MEN AND WOMEN

LEAVE YOUR DONATIONS AND PICK UP POST CARDS – HELP GET OUT THE VOTE!

COVID 19 requirements for clothes (& shoes):

1. All items must be folded and placed in a sealed box or tied plastic bag (pull string kitchen trash bag preferred)
2. Dress items packed separately in a sealed box or tied plastic bag and LABELED “Dress Clothes”

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3. SUPPORT/JOIN TAS SMALL INTEREST GROUPS

New Interest Groups are being developed for TAS Members. During our restrictions due to COVID -19, groups are encouraged to get creative with using Zoom to discuss, share, view, and talk more about your topics. Safe in person distancing is allowed per area guidelines. Down the road when more direct contact is allowed, your groups will be able to expand ways of getting together. Groups will determine their own schedule and facilitate personal Zoom accounts. Please contact Laraine Miller at tzlady@socal.rr.com to sign up and receive more information. Ideas for a group with a focus area not suggested are welcome for consideration.

• Gardening: Some of us are avid gardeners, both vegetable and ornamental. Some of us need a little more help. This group could also involve photography, “safe trips” to Gardens, like the Huntington, LA Arboretum, Descanso Gardens, areas in the Valley and City. Compare notes, articles on gardening, tips and trips. Help may also be needed to maintain our TAS Garden.
• Jews Celebrating Together: Creating Community & Finding Joy in Jewish Holidays.
• The Business World: Discuss the News of the Day, Big & Small Business, the Who’s Who in Business, Mergers, Acquisitions, Investments and more!
• Sports as a Window into US History & Society: Women’s & Men’s Professional Sports, Negro League Baseball, Anti-Semitism in Sports, Olympic Highlights, Sports Gambling & Cheating, Dangers Inherent with Sports and more!
• Sporting Book Club: Select sports themed books and engage in discussion.
• Pirke Avot: Studying the Wisdom of our Jewish Sages. (Our Clergy will assist with start -up).
• The First Act: For families with Toddlers through High School Children: Parenting Styles, Raising Menschs, How to Stay Sane. (Our Clergy will assist with start- up).
• The Second Act: The Kids Have Moved Out or Maybe Moved Back Home, Now What? Finding Meaning and Purpose. (Our Clergy will assist with start- up).
• The Third Act: Wise Aging & Living Fully in Your Senior Years. (Our Clergy will assist with start- up).
• Bubbies & Zaydes: The Joys & Challenges of Grandparenting in today’s world.
• In Pursuit of Music: Share and discuss music of the Divas, Crooners, Blues, Jazz and Other Genres, Male Groups, Female Groups and Favorite Singles.
• Trivial Pursuit: A group just to schmooze and enjoy each other’s company.
• The Curious Eaters (from a Safe Distance): Virtual and Eventual Dining Experiences! Share favorite places to dine, local and far away. Share photos, YouTubes from around the world and personal food stories.
• Break A Leg: Virtual and Eventual Live Theater Performances! Select a performance to view independently and arrange time for talking points. One play, several Jews, a multitude of opinions and perspectives!
• Explore Jewish History Through Historical Fiction Book Club: Select books to read and engage in group discussion
• Jewish Cooking Around the World: Share recipes, discuss ingredients and unique ways to cook different foods.
• Hiking/Walking: Grab your mask, hat and water, and within safe distancing walk with a few friends in neighborhoods or public access trails.
• Movie Club: Select movies to watch independently and meet online or in safe distance to discuss the characters, the plot, the ending, the cinematography, the actors and directors.
• Photography Club: Virtually share your photos and discuss the location, the reason for the photo, the techniques and camera used to take the photos. Safely meet at locations to take photos and enjoy the experience.
• Current Events: Pick a date, read the headlines, and engage in the talk of a town, state, country, and world.
• Travel Bug: Select a travel destination, share its history, its highlights, share photos and stories. Relive your favorite places and inspire others.

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4. Sukkah Building UPDATE

MoTAS offered to build the Sukkah this year, even with masks and gloves. However, we could not get the necessary permits without adding air conditioning, air scrubbers, water fountains and Covid19 inspection stations. We were willing to try but it was pointed out that the Torah explicitly forbids the use of electrical power. After all, Moses never stayed in the same place long enough to pay his water and power bills.

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5. OCTOBER MONTHLY MEETING: MISSIONS TO MARS on OCT 11

Our October meeting will be very special as we are in for a real treat. TAS’s own space scientist from Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Scott Gore, will be presenting a talk on the mission to Mars, including the Perseverance Rover and the Mars Helicopter. Scott’s presentation will be held at 9:45 sharp so that anyone interested one of the most visible space programs can participate at that time.

Scott’s career has been in electrical, electro-mechanical, and electronic parts. His work was mostly in radar, missile, and communications systems until he came to JPL in 2017, when he started applying his  experience to space components.

Since starting at JPL, a big part of his work has been on the Mars 2020 program, which recently resulted in the launch of the Perseverance Rover which is now on its way to Mars. He will talk about the flight – distance, speed, duration, and where Perseverance is going on Mars. He will also talk about the Perseverance Rover, the instruments on it, and the science goals for the mission. If there is time, he will talk about some of the challenges for robotic exploration of the solar system, and future missions planned.

Zoom info will be provided after the High Holidays.

Perseverance Rover with Mars Helicopter

Europa mission visualization

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IN CLOSING

As always, remember that the Men of Temple Ahavat Shalom is *your* organization. Keep up to date on our activities at http://www.tasnorthridge-motas.org/ and participate. Sign up for our action alert list at http://tinyurl.com/motas-action-alert. We want to serve all the men of Temple Ahavat Shalom and welcome new participants from the TAS membership. Join our Facebook group and “follow” our website. Come be part of the Men of Temple Ahavat Shalom!

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In This Issue:

1. IT’S FOOTBALL SQUARES SEASON AGAIN
2. September Monthly Meeting – First Meeting of 2020-21 – SEPT 13
3. SUPPORT/JOIN TAS SMALL INTEREST GROUPS
   
4. First Day Of Religious School Pancake Breakfast Update
5. Sukkah Building UPDATE
6. MRJ SPEAKER: Akiva Tor on SUN SEP 13 – Despite a Pandemic, the Holy Fire Will Burn
7. IN CLOSING

1. IT’S FOOTBALL SQUARES SEASON AGAIN

Please join MoTAS in our very popular fun-raiser, now in its 9th year.  It is a very important program, which raises funds for temple projects that are not able to be done because of budget limitations.  Much of the money is used primarily for education projects.

You don’t need to know anything about football, or even like football.  It’s all about helping TAS. For one entry, you participate in the entire 16-game season!

The rules are the same as last year, except that 1) if a Monday game is canceled or rescheduled, a game from Sunday will be used instead, and 2) if the season is shortened, adjustments to payouts and refunds will be determined at that time.  The entry fee remains $50 per square. If you wish to pay by check, please mail it directly to:

Roger Lowe
10659 Desplain Place
Chatsworth, CA 91311
(Mark “Football Squares” on the envelope.)

Please also send an email to Bob with your name(s) and # of squares you wish, so he can place you on the grid board (limit 2 per individual or 4 for couple).

For more information and to sign up, go to squares.tasnorhtridge-motas.org or email Bob Levine, tasboblevine@gmail.com

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2. September Monthly Meeting – First Meeting of 2020-21 – SEPT 13

Our first meeting of the 2020-2021 programming year will be Sunday, September 13 at 9am. For our meeting introductions, please email Howard (hmiller12@socal.rr.com) with a secret clue about yourself, something most people don’t know about you.  It may be a specific talent, an experience, someone you met, etc. Howard will read it and the group will try and guess who you are.  If it is juicy, we promise not to pass it on.

Join Zoom Meeting
Please contact Howard at president@tasnorthridge-motas.org for Zoom link specifics.

Meeting ID: xxx xxxx xxxx
Passcode: xxxxx

In our post-meeting program, William Moalem will talk about growing up in China, life in a Japanese concentration camp during WWII (1942-1945), how he was liberated and what life was like afterward.

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3. SUPPORT/JOIN TAS SMALL INTEREST GROUPS

New Interest Groups are being developed for TAS Members. During our restrictions due to COVID -19, groups are encouraged to get creative with using Zoom to discuss, share, view, and talk more about your topics. Safe in person distancing is allowed per area guidelines. Down the road when more direct contact is allowed, your groups will be able to expand ways of getting together. Groups will determine their own schedule and facilitate personal Zoom accounts. Please contact Laraine Miller at tzlady@socal.rr.com to sign up and receive more information. Ideas for a group with a focus area not suggested are welcome for consideration.

• Gardening: Some of us are avid gardeners, both vegetable and ornamental. Some of us need a little more help. This group could also involve photography, “safe trips” to Gardens, like the Huntington, LA Arboretum, Descanso Gardens, areas in the Valley and City. Compare notes, articles on gardening, tips and trips. Help may also be needed to maintain our TAS Garden.
• Jews Celebrating Together: Creating Community & Finding Joy in Jewish Holidays.
• The Business World: Discuss the News of the Day, Big & Small Business, the Who’s Who in Business, Mergers, Acquisitions, Investments and more!
• Sports as a Window into US History & Society: Women’s & Men’s Professional Sports, Negro League Baseball, Anti-Semitism in Sports, Olympic Highlights, Sports Gambling & Cheating, Dangers Inherent with Sports and more!
• Sporting Book Club: Select sports themed books and engage in discussion.
• Pirke Avot: Studying the Wisdom of our Jewish Sages. (Our Clergy will assist with start -up).
• The First Act: For families with Toddlers through High School Children: Parenting Styles, Raising Menschs, How to Stay Sane. (Our Clergy will assist with start- up).
• The Second Act: The Kids Have Moved Out or Maybe Moved Back Home, Now What? Finding Meaning and Purpose. (Our Clergy will assist with start- up).
• The Third Act: Wise Aging & Living Fully in Your Senior Years. (Our Clergy will assist with start- up).
• Bubbies & Zaydes: The Joys & Challenges of Grandparenting in today’s world.
• In Pursuit of Music: Share and discuss music of the Divas, Crooners, Blues, Jazz and Other Genres, Male Groups, Female Groups and Favorite Singles.
• Trivial Pursuit: A group just to schmooze and enjoy each other’s company.
• The Curious Eaters (from a Safe Distance): Virtual and Eventual Dining Experiences! Share favorite places to dine, local and far away. Share photos, YouTubes from around the world and personal food stories.
• Break A Leg: Virtual and Eventual Live Theater Performances! Select a performance to view independently and arrange time for talking points. One play, several Jews, a multitude of opinions and perspectives!
• Explore Jewish History Through Historical Fiction Book Club: Select books to read and engage in group discussion
• Jewish Cooking Around the World: Share recipes, discuss ingredients and unique ways to cook different foods.
• Hiking/Walking: Grab your mask, hat and water, and within safe distancing walk with a few friends in neighborhoods or public access trails.
• Movie Club: Select movies to watch independently and meet online or in safe distance to discuss the characters, the plot, the ending, the cinematography, the actors and directors.
• Photography Club: Virtually share your photos and discuss the location, the reason for the photo, the techniques and camera used to take the photos. Safely meet at locations to take photos and enjoy the experience.
• Current Events: Pick a date, read the headlines, and engage in the talk of a town, state, country, and world.
• Travel Bug: Select a travel destination, share its history, its highlights, share photos and stories. Relive your favorite places and inspire others.

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4. First Day Of Religious School Pancake Breakfast Update

MoTAS will not be holding our annual free pancake breakfast. We were ready to flip 300 hotcakes but, since there will be no opening day of school this year, we would have been left with a ten foot stack of pure carbs.  Instead, MoTAS will be contributing a family pancake breakfast package to religious school families via Rabbi Becky’s Rosh Hashana gift bags to members.  It will include a note of best wishes to our students. (Return to Top)

5. Sukkah Building UPDATE

MoTAS offered to build the Sukkah this year, even with masks and gloves. However, we could not get the necessary permits without adding air conditioning, air scrubbers, water fountains and Covid19 inspection stations. We were willing to try but it was pointed out that the Torah explicitly forbids the use of electrical power. After all, Moses never stayed in the same place long enough to pay his water and power bills. (Return to Top)

6. MRJ SPEAKER: Akiva Tor on SUN SEP 13 – Despite a Pandemic, the Holy Fire Will Burn

Listen to Akiva Tor’s interview with Media Line about a fiery Christian Orthodox ritual uninterrupted for ‘at least the last couple of centuries: the “Holy Fire” ceremony on April 18 at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the Christian Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City. The Media Line interview explores the annual ritual – and how it has been changed by Coronavirus. Akiva Tor is the head of the Bureau of World Jewish Affairs and World Religions of the Israeli Foreign Ministry.

After listening to the interview, join MRJ as we host him for a conversation on Sunday, September 13th at 1 p.m. ET. Register today.

Akiva Tor is the Head of Bureau for World Jewish Affairs and World Religions at the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Previously he served as Consul General of Israel for the Pacific Northwest, Director of the Israel Economic and Cultural Office in Taipei, Deputy Director for Palestinian Affairs in the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and as World Jewish Affairs Adviser to the President of Israel in which capacity he began the organization of the World Jewish Forum, an initiative for creating a pan-Jewish strategy for stemming assimilation and decline in Jewish life.

Akiva is a graduate of the Harvard University Kennedy School of Government, and holds an MA degree from Hebrew University in Jewish political thought and a BA from Columbia University in general philosophy. He has written and lectured on Jewish values in the foreign policy of Israel and on ethical considerations in international relations. He served as a paratrooper in the Israel Defense Forces and as an infantry captain in the IDF reserves. He is interested in running, mountain biking and ascending high places. Akiva is married to Naomi, a community social worker. Their home town is Beit Shemesh, near Jerusalem, and they have four children – Yonah, Zohar, Yehudah and Roni.

Read his blog pieces in the Times of Israel, including “Building a Bridge Over Troubled Waters.” You can also read his piece, “Pope Francis in Israel.”

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IN CLOSING

As always, remember that the Men of Temple Ahavat Shalom is *your* organization. Keep up to date on our activities at http://www.tasnorthridge-motas.org/ and participate. Sign up for our action alert list at http://tinyurl.com/motas-action-alert. We want to serve all the men of Temple Ahavat Shalom and welcome new participants from the TAS membership. Join our Facebook group and “follow” our website. Come be part of the Men of Temple Ahavat Shalom!

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In This Issue:

1. Another Summer Get-Together – SUN August 16
2. TAS Confirmation Students Provide Thanks for L’ Taken Help
3. Help Us Spread the News about Rabbi BeckY
4. MRJ SPEAKER: Akiva Tor on SUN SEP 13 – Despite a Pandemic, the Holy Fire Will Burn
5. IN CLOSING

Note: As we enter into the Summer months, the MoTAS Weekly make take the occasional week off if there are no new items for the week. As always, you can find the weekly posted on our website at www.tasnorthridge-motas.org.

1. Another Summer Get-Together – SUN August 16

After 16 guys caught up with each other at our July Trivia contest, MoTAS will be holding another social get-together in lieu of a meeting on Sunday August 16 at 9am.  Our theme will be “Bring your favorite jokes and quotations”.  Join us for some news and laughter!  Here is the plan for our Sunday Get-Together:

• What was the first joke you remember hearing or telling when you were a kid
• What joke have you told the most
• What joke has gotten you into trouble
• Open Joke telling
• What was the most important advice you received from your mom or dad
• What is the silliest advice or philosophy you have found that has been most valuable to you
• What is your favorite quotation or the one that has had the most meaning for you.

Here is the information on the meeting:

Join Zoom Meeting: Contact Howard or check your email for details

Meeting ID: xxx xxx xxxx
Passcode: ******
Dial in: 1-669-900-9128

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2. TAS Confirmation Students Provide Thanks for L’ Taken Help

As many of our members know, MoTAS provides a portion of our fundraising efforts to helping our TAS Confirmation students attend L’ Taken, the trip the class takes to Washington DC in Spring.  There, the students learn about issues important to Jewish Americans and are provided opportunities to meet with their Senate and House representatives.  As you will find in the Thank You notes provided in the link below, our students find this trip to be meaningful and often life changing.  They all appreciate the help MoTAS and individual members make to assisting with the costs of the trip.  Take time to read their notes of appreciation (which you can find at https://app.box.com/s/325irsf5lz6rhyin0a68g0fzvvl2ksq1), I think you will find them rewarding for the work MoTAS does to raise funds for such purposes.

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3. Help Us Spread the News about Rabbi Becky

Now that Rabbi Becky has started at TAS, we need to let our community know about the changes at TAS. This is not the TAS of yore: all of what might have inhibited folks in prior years is in the past. We have a new Rabbi, a new Cantor, and most importantly: a new spirit and a stronger family. We need to let our communities know: not only the local North Valley of Chatsworth, Northridge, North Hills, and Granada Hills. We need to let the folks in all directions nearby know: the Southern portion of the valley (Reseda, Woodland Hills, Van Nuys, Encino, etc.), the communities to the East (Arleta, Sylmar, San Fernando), Simi Valley to the West, and, to the North, the southern portions of Santa Clarita and Stevenson Ranch.

The best way to do this is to invite someone to sample our Friday night service. They can do this via Zoom, or that can join via Facebook Live via the Temple’s Facebook page. You’ll get the Zoom information in your weekly temple mailing that you can share. You can also recommend that folks contact the Temple office for information.

We also want you to go beyond asking local friends and family to meet her and our temple. First, you can spread the word on those social media sites you use. Spread the message on Facebook about our service. Look at the Temple’s Facebook page for information to share. Second, you can  introduce Rabbi Becky to your neighborhood using nextdoor.com . If you already have an account, you are ready.  If you need to register / create a new free account, click here:  https://help.nextdoor.com/s/article/How-to-join-Nextdoor?language=en_US. Once you have your account:

1. Go to your account on nextdoor.com
2. Select “General” under “Neighborhood”
3. Post a story about Rabbi Becky

We also encourage you to go write a review of the Temple on Yelp. Jews across the Valley look to Yelp for reviews and recommendations for all sorts of products, services, restaurants and even which temple to join. If you were asked to recommend TAS, what good things would you say? Now is a particularly good time to write your review, with Rabbi Becky joining us and Cantor Ken continuing to make our musical moments magic. In case you wish to share your opinion and add a review on the TAS Yelp page, it is simple and easy:

1. Go to   http://www.yelp.com
2. In “Find” type “Temple Ahavat Shalom” and in “Near” type  “Northridge”
3. Then click on “Temple Ahavat Shalom”
4. Then click on “Write a Review”
5. Select Your Rating of   *****    (5 stars is best!)
6. In your own words write a review / answer the question “Would do you love about being a member Temple Ahavat Shalom?”

Here are some suggestions for things to mention in your post or review:

• Temple Ahavat Shalom is a 54 year old warm and welcoming Jewish Reform Congregation in Northridge.
• Mention how long you have been a member.
• Join us for a dynamic Shabbat service with our new rabbi, Rebecca Hoffman, and provide the date and time.
• Invite people to come check us out.
• For more information on our Zoom service or attending via Facebook Live, call Ben Tenn at (818) 360-2258 or contact Aaron Solomon at (818) 360-2258.

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4. MRJ SPEAKER: Akiva Tor on SUN SEP 13 – Despite a Pandemic, the Holy Fire Will Burn

Listen to Akiva Tor’s interview with Media Line about a fiery Christian Orthodox ritual uninterrupted for ‘at least the last couple of centuries: the “Holy Fire” ceremony on April 18 at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the Christian Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City. The Media Line interview explores the annual ritual – and how it has been changed by Coronavirus. Akiva Tor is the head of the Bureau of World Jewish Affairs and World Religions of the Israeli Foreign Ministry.

After listening to the interview, join MRJ as we host him for a conversation on Sunday, September 13th at 1 p.m. ET. Register today.

Akiva Tor is the Head of Bureau for World Jewish Affairs and World Religions at the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Previously he served as Consul General of Israel for the Pacific Northwest, Director of the Israel Economic and Cultural Office in Taipei, Deputy Director for Palestinian Affairs in the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and as World Jewish Affairs Adviser to the President of Israel in which capacity he began the organization of the World Jewish Forum, an initiative for creating a pan-Jewish strategy for stemming assimilation and decline in Jewish life.

Akiva is a graduate of the Harvard University Kennedy School of Government, and holds an MA degree from Hebrew University in Jewish political thought and a BA from Columbia University in general philosophy. He has written and lectured on Jewish values in the foreign policy of Israel and on ethical considerations in international relations. He served as a paratrooper in the Israel Defense Forces and as an infantry captain in the IDF reserves. He is interested in running, mountain biking and ascending high places. Akiva is married to Naomi, a community social worker. Their home town is Beit Shemesh, near Jerusalem, and they have four children – Yonah, Zohar, Yehudah and Roni.

Read his blog pieces in the Times of Israel, including “Building a Bridge Over Troubled Waters.” You can also read his piece, “Pope Francis in Israel.”

(Return to Top)

IN CLOSING

As always, remember that the Men of Temple Ahavat Shalom is *your* organization. Keep up to date on our activities at http://www.tasnorthridge-motas.org/ and participate. Sign up for our action alert list at http://tinyurl.com/motas-action-alert. We want to serve all the men of Temple Ahavat Shalom and welcome new participants from the TAS membership. Join our Facebook group and “follow” our website. Come be part of the Men of Temple Ahavat Shalom!

(Return to Top)

In This Issue:

1. Another Summer Get-Together – SUN August 9
2. Brainstorming Session – Making TAS Better – WED AUGUST 5
3. TAS Confirmation Students Provide Thanks for L’ Taken Help
4. Monthly TAS Poker Game – Calling all Poker Players
5. Help Us Spread the News about Rabbi BeckY
6. MRJ SPEAKER: Akiva Tor on SUN SEP 13 – Despite a Pandemic, the Holy Fire Will Burn
   
7. IN CLOSING

Note: As we enter into the Summer months, the MoTAS Weekly make take the occasional week off if there are no new items for the week. As always, you can find the weekly posted on our website at www.tasnorthridge-motas.org.

1. Another Summer Get-Together – SUN August 9

After 16 guys caught up with each other at our July Trivia contest, MoTAS will be holding another social get-together in lieu of a meeting on Sunday August 9 at 9am.  Our theme will be “Bring your favorite jokes and quotations”.  Join us for some news and laughter!  Here is the plan for our Sunday Get-Together:

• What was the first joke you remember hearing or telling when you were a kid
• What joke have you told the most
• What joke has gotten you into trouble
• Open Joke telling
• What was the most important advice you received from your mom or dad
• What is the silliest advice or philosophy you have found that has been most valuable to you
• What is your favorite quotation or the one that has had the most meaning for you.

Here is the information on the meeting:

Join Zoom Meeting: — Contact Howard for Zoom Information —

Meeting ID: xxx xxxx xxxx
Passcode: xxxxxx
Dial in: 1-669-900-9128

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2. Brainstorming Session – Making TAS Better – WED AUGUST 5

Hasn’t there been a time when you thought, “if only TAS would just…?” We’re pretty sure most of you have.  That’s why the marketing/membership committee is holding a special brainstorming session, to hear your ideas and suggestions on how to make TAS a better home for your fellow members, or a place for nonmembers to become part of our community and family.

Please join us on Wednesday, August 5, 2020, at 7pm.

To be added to the zoom invitation list, contact either Brian Hatkoff (bhatkoff@aol.com) or Bob Levine (tasboblevine@gmail.com).

All ideas will be considered.  No idea is too small or too large.

One idea can unlock a breadth of solutions.

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3. TAS Confirmation Students Provide Thanks for L’ Taken Help

As many of our members know, MoTAS provides a portion of our fundraising efforts to helping our TAS Confirmation students attend L’ Taken, the trip the class takes to Washington DC in Spring.  There, the students learn about issues important to Jewish Americans and are provided opportunities to meet with their Senate and House representatives.  As you will find in the Thank You notes provided in the link below, our students find this trip to be meaningful and often life changing.  They all appreciate the help MoTAS and individual members make to assisting with the costs of the trip.  Take time to read their notes of appreciation (which you can find at https://app.box.com/s/325irsf5lz6rhyin0a68g0fzvvl2ksq1), I think you will find them rewarding for the work MoTAS does to raise funds for such purposes.

(Return to Top)

4. Monthly TAS Poker Game – Calling all Poker Players

If you like to play in a monthly game of poker and help out the temple, MoTAS is putting together a safe monthly online game of No Limit Hold-em.  A monthly tournament is a fun way to increase your skills at poker and make a bit of mullah.  Games would be played at 7:30 on the first Tuesday of each month.  The $20 buy-in would be handled by MoTAS.  MoTAS would take 15% of the stakes for our temple fundraising and the rest would be split 60% and 25% by the top two players.  Tournaments will take about 90 minutes.  If you (yes, men and women) have an interest, contact Howard Miller at hmiller12@socal.rr.com. 

(Return to Top)

5. Help Us Spread the News about Rabbi Becky

Now that Rabbi Becky has started at TAS, we need to let our community know about the changes at TAS. This is not the TAS of yore: all of what might have inhibited folks in prior years is in the past. We have a new Rabbi, a new Cantor, and most importantly: a new spirit and a stronger family. We need to let our communities know: not only the local North Valley of Chatsworth, Northridge, North Hills, and Granada Hills. We need to let the folks in all directions nearby know: the Southern portion of the valley (Reseda, Woodland Hills, Van Nuys, Encino, etc.), the communities to the East (Arleta, Sylmar, San Fernando), Simi Valley to the West, and, to the North, the southern portions of Santa Clarita and Stevenson Ranch.

The best way to do this is to invite someone to sample our Friday night service. They can do this via Zoom, or that can join via Facebook Live via the Temple’s Facebook page. You’ll get the Zoom information in your weekly temple mailing that you can share. You can also recommend that folks contact the Temple office for information.

We also want you to go beyond asking local friends and family to meet her and our temple. First, you can spread the word on those social media sites you use. Spread the message on Facebook about our service. Look at the Temple’s Facebook page for information to share. Second, you can  introduce Rabbi Becky to your neighborhood using nextdoor.com . If you already have an account, you are ready.  If you need to register / create a new free account, click here:  https://help.nextdoor.com/s/article/How-to-join-Nextdoor?language=en_US. Once you have your account:

1. Go to your account on nextdoor.com
2. Select “General” under “Neighborhood”
3. Post a story about Rabbi Becky

We also encourage you to go write a review of the Temple on Yelp. Jews across the Valley look to Yelp for reviews and recommendations for all sorts of products, services, restaurants and even which temple to join. If you were asked to recommend TAS, what good things would you say? Now is a particularly good time to write your review, with Rabbi Becky joining us and Cantor Ken continuing to make our musical moments magic. In case you wish to share your opinion and add a review on the TAS Yelp page, it is simple and easy:

1. Go to   http://www.yelp.com
2. In “Find” type “Temple Ahavat Shalom” and in “Near” type  “Northridge”
3. Then click on “Temple Ahavat Shalom”
4. Then click on “Write a Review”
5. Select Your Rating of   *****    (5 stars is best!)
6. In your own words write a review / answer the question “Would do you love about being a member Temple Ahavat Shalom?”

Here are some suggestions for things to mention in your post or review:

• Temple Ahavat Shalom is a 54 year old warm and welcoming Jewish Reform Congregation in Northridge.
• Mention how long you have been a member.
• Join us for a dynamic Shabbat service with our new rabbi, Rebecca Hoffman, and provide the date and time.
• Invite people to come check us out.
• For more information on our Zoom service or attending via Facebook Live, call Ben Tenn at (818) 360-2258 or contact Aaron Solomon at (818) 360-2258.

(Return to Top)

6. MRJ SPEAKER: Akiva Tor on SUN SEP 13 – Despite a Pandemic, the Holy Fire Will Burn

Listen to Akiva Tor’s interview with Media Line about a fiery Christian Orthodox ritual uninterrupted for ‘at least the last couple of centuries: the “Holy Fire” ceremony on April 18 at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the Christian Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City. The Media Line interview explores the annual ritual – and how it has been changed by Coronavirus. Akiva Tor is the head of the Bureau of World Jewish Affairs and World Religions of the Israeli Foreign Ministry.

After listening to the interview, join MRJ as we host him for a conversation on Sunday, September 13th at 1 p.m. ET. Register today.

Akiva Tor is the Head of Bureau for World Jewish Affairs and World Religions at the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Previously he served as Consul General of Israel for the Pacific Northwest, Director of the Israel Economic and Cultural Office in Taipei, Deputy Director for Palestinian Affairs in the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and as World Jewish Affairs Adviser to the President of Israel in which capacity he began the organization of the World Jewish Forum, an initiative for creating a pan-Jewish strategy for stemming assimilation and decline in Jewish life.

Akiva is a graduate of the Harvard University Kennedy School of Government, and holds an MA degree from Hebrew University in Jewish political thought and a BA from Columbia University in general philosophy. He has written and lectured on Jewish values in the foreign policy of Israel and on ethical considerations in international relations. He served as a paratrooper in the Israel Defense Forces and as an infantry captain in the IDF reserves. He is interested in running, mountain biking and ascending high places. Akiva is married to Naomi, a community social worker. Their home town is Beit Shemesh, near Jerusalem, and they have four children – Yonah, Zohar, Yehudah and Roni.

Read his blog pieces in the Times of Israel, including “Building a Bridge Over Troubled Waters.” You can also read his piece, “Pope Francis in Israel.”

(Return to Top)

IN CLOSING

As always, remember that the Men of Temple Ahavat Shalom is *your* organization. Keep up to date on our activities at http://www.tasnorthridge-motas.org/ and participate. Sign up for our action alert list at http://tinyurl.com/motas-action-alert. We want to serve all the men of Temple Ahavat Shalom and welcome new participants from the TAS membership. Join our Facebook group and “follow” our website. Come be part of the Men of Temple Ahavat Shalom!

(Return to Top)

In This Issue:

1. Another Summer Get-Together – SUN August 9
2. Brainstorming Session – Making TAS Better – WED AUGUST 5
3. Dining Does Good Gives Back – Golden HuNan Chinese – Tues August 4
4. Monthly TAS Poker Game – Calling all Poker Players
5. Help Us Spread the News about Rabbi BeckY
6. MRJ SPEAKER: Akiva Tor on SUN SEP 13 – Despite a Pandemic, the Holy Fire Will Burn
   
7. IN CLOSING

Note: As we enter into the Summer months, the MoTAS Weekly make take the occasional week off if there are no new items for the week. As always, you can find the weekly posted on our website at www.tasnorthridge-motas.org.

1. Another Summer Get-Together – SUN August 9

After 16 guys caught up with each other at our July Trivia contest, MoTAS will be holding another social get-together in lieu of a meeting on Sunday August 9 at 9am.  Our theme will be “Bring your favorite jokes and quotations”.  Join us for some news and laughter!  Zoom info will be provided soon.

(Return to Top)

2. Brainstorming Session – Making TAS Better – WED AUGUST 5

Hasn’t there been a time when you thought, “if only TAS would just…?” We’re pretty sure most of you have.  That’s why the marketing/membership committee is holding a special brainstorming session, to hear your ideas and suggestions on how to make TAS a better home for your fellow members, or a place for nonmembers to become part of our community and family.

Please join us on Wednesday, August 5, 2020, at 7pm.

To be added to the zoom invitation list, contact either Brian Hatkoff (bhatkoff@aol.com) or Bob Levine (tasboblevine@gmail.com).

All ideas will be considered.  No idea is too small or too large.

One idea can unlock a breadth of solutions.

(Return to Top)

3. Dining Does Good Gives Back – Golden HuNan Chinese – Tues August 4

A good friend of MoTAS, Golden Hunan Chinese Restaurant on Reseda (N of Devonshire, (818) 363-5511) , is in trouble.  They are in the midst of a real fight to remain open and viable during this pandemic.  Golden Hunan has hosted several “MoTAS Does Christmas” dinners over the years as well as a couple of our evening dinner meetings.  They have gone out of their way to give us special meals at great prices when we have met there.  So, if you are “Taking out Tuesday” for dinner on August 4th, order some Chinese food at our friends at Golden Hunan.  You can even order online. Let them know you are from MoTAS and Temple Ahavat Shalom.

(Return to Top)

4. Monthly TAS Poker Game – Calling all Poker Players

If you like to play in a monthly game of poker and help out the temple, MoTAS is putting together a safe monthly online game of No Limit Hold-em.  A monthly tournament is a fun way to increase your skills at poker and make a bit of mullah.  Games would be played at 7:30 on the first Tuesday of each month.  The $20 buy-in would be handled by MoTAS.  MoTAS would take 15% of the stakes for our temple fundraising and the rest would be split 60% and 25% by the top two players.  Tournaments will take about 90 minutes.  If you (yes, men and women) have an interest, contact Howard Miller at hmiller12@socal.rr.com. 

(Return to Top)

5. Help Us Spread the News about Rabbi Becky

Now that Rabbi Becky has started at TAS, we need to let our community know about the changes at TAS. This is not the TAS of yore: all of what might have inhibited folks in prior years is in the past. We have a new Rabbi, a new Cantor, and most importantly: a new spirit and a stronger family. We need to let our communities know: not only the local North Valley of Chatsworth, Northridge, North Hills, and Granada Hills. We need to let the folks in all directions nearby know: the Southern portion of the valley (Reseda, Woodland Hills, Van Nuys, Encino, etc.), the communities to the East (Arleta, Sylmar, San Fernando), Simi Valley to the West, and, to the North, the southern portions of Santa Clarita and Stevenson Ranch.

The best way to do this is to invite someone to sample our Friday night service. They can do this via Zoom, or that can join via Facebook Live via the Temple’s Facebook page. You’ll get the Zoom information in your weekly temple mailing that you can share. You can also recommend that folks contact the Temple office for information.

We also want you to go beyond asking local friends and family to meet her and our temple. First, you can spread the word on those social media sites you use. Spread the message on Facebook about our service. Look at the Temple’s Facebook page for information to share. Second, you can  introduce Rabbi Becky to your neighborhood using nextdoor.com . If you already have an account, you are ready.  If you need to register / create a new free account, click here:  https://help.nextdoor.com/s/article/How-to-join-Nextdoor?language=en_US. Once you have your account:

1. Go to your account on nextdoor.com
2. Select “General” under “Neighborhood”
3. Post a story about Rabbi Becky

We also encourage you to go write a review of the Temple on Yelp. Jews across the Valley look to Yelp for reviews and recommendations for all sorts of products, services, restaurants and even which temple to join. If you were asked to recommend TAS, what good things would you say? Now is a particularly good time to write your review, with Rabbi Becky joining us and Cantor Ken continuing to make our musical moments magic. In case you wish to share your opinion and add a review on the TAS Yelp page, it is simple and easy:

1. Go to   http://www.yelp.com
2. In “Find” type “Temple Ahavat Shalom” and in “Near” type  “Northridge”
3. Then click on “Temple Ahavat Shalom”
4. Then click on “Write a Review”
5. Select Your Rating of   *****    (5 stars is best!)
6. In your own words write a review / answer the question “Would do you love about being a member Temple Ahavat Shalom?”

Here are some suggestions for things to mention in your post or review:

• Temple Ahavat Shalom is a 54 year old warm and welcoming Jewish Reform Congregation in Northridge.
• Mention how long you have been a member.
• Join us for a dynamic Shabbat service with our new rabbi, Rebecca Hoffman, and provide the date and time.
• Invite people to come check us out.
• For more information on our Zoom service or attending via Facebook Live, call Ben Tenn at (818) 360-2258 or contact Aaron Solomon at (818) 360-2258.

(Return to Top)

6. MRJ SPEAKER: Akiva Tor on SUN SEP 13 – Despite a Pandemic, the Holy Fire Will Burn

Listen to Akiva Tor’s interview with Media Line about a fiery Christian Orthodox ritual uninterrupted for ‘at least the last couple of centuries: the “Holy Fire” ceremony on April 18 at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the Christian Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City. The Media Line interview explores the annual ritual – and how it has been changed by Coronavirus. Akiva Tor is the head of the Bureau of World Jewish Affairs and World Religions of the Israeli Foreign Ministry.

After listening to the interview, join MRJ as we host him for a conversation on Sunday, September 13th at 1 p.m. ET. Register today.

Akiva Tor is the Head of Bureau for World Jewish Affairs and World Religions at the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Previously he served as Consul General of Israel for the Pacific Northwest, Director of the Israel Economic and Cultural Office in Taipei, Deputy Director for Palestinian Affairs in the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and as World Jewish Affairs Adviser to the President of Israel in which capacity he began the organization of the World Jewish Forum, an initiative for creating a pan-Jewish strategy for stemming assimilation and decline in Jewish life.

Akiva is a graduate of the Harvard University Kennedy School of Government, and holds an MA degree from Hebrew University in Jewish political thought and a BA from Columbia University in general philosophy. He has written and lectured on Jewish values in the foreign policy of Israel and on ethical considerations in international relations. He served as a paratrooper in the Israel Defense Forces and as an infantry captain in the IDF reserves. He is interested in running, mountain biking and ascending high places. Akiva is married to Naomi, a community social worker. Their home town is Beit Shemesh, near Jerusalem, and they have four children – Yonah, Zohar, Yehudah and Roni.

Read his blog pieces in the Times of Israel, including “Building a Bridge Over Troubled Waters.” You can also read his piece, “Pope Francis in Israel.”

(Return to Top)

IN CLOSING

As always, remember that the Men of Temple Ahavat Shalom is *your* organization. Keep up to date on our activities at http://www.tasnorthridge-motas.org/ and participate. Sign up for our action alert list at http://tinyurl.com/motas-action-alert. We want to serve all the men of Temple Ahavat Shalom and welcome new participants from the TAS membership. Join our Facebook group and “follow” our website. Come be part of the Men of Temple Ahavat Shalom!

(Return to Top)

In This Issue:

1. Another Summer Get-Together August 9
2. Monthly TAS Poker Game – Calling all Poker Players
3. Help Us Spread the News about Rabbi BeckY
4. MRJ SPEAKER: Akiva Tor on SUN SEP 13 – Despite a Pandemic, the Holy Fire Will Burn
   
5. IN CLOSING

Note: As we enter into the Summer months, the MoTAS Weekly make take the occasional week off if there are no new items for the week. As always, you can find the weekly posted on our website at www.tasnorthridge-motas.org.

1. Another Summer Get-Together August 9

After 16 guys caught up with each other at our July Trivia contest, MoTAS will be holding another social get-together in lieu of a meeting on Sunday August 9 at 9am.  Our theme will be “Bring your favorite jokes and quotations”.  Join us for some news and laughter!  Zoom info will be provided soon.

(Return to Top)

2. Monthly TAS Poker Game – Calling all Poker Players

If you like to play in a monthly game of poker and help out the temple, MoTAS is putting together a safe monthly online game of No Limit Hold-em.  A monthly tournament is a fun way to increase your skills at poker and make a bit of mullah.  Games would be played at 7:30 on the first Tuesday of each month.  The $20 buy-in would be handled by MoTAS.  MoTAS would take 15% of the stakes for our temple fundraising and the rest would be split 60% and 25% by the top two players.  Tournaments will take about 90 minutes.  If you (yes, men and women) have an interest, contact Howard Miller at hmiller12@socal.rr.com. 

(Return to Top)

3. Help Us Spread the News about Rabbi Becky

Now that Rabbi Becky has started at TAS, we need to let our community know about the changes at TAS. This is not the TAS of yore: all of what might have inhibited folks in prior years is in the past. We have a new Rabbi, a new Cantor, and most importantly: a new spirit and a stronger family. We need to let our communities know: not only the local North Valley of Chatsworth, Northridge, North Hills, and Granada Hills. We need to let the folks in all directions nearby know: the Southern portion of the valley (Reseda, Woodland Hills, Van Nuys, Encino, etc.), the communities to the East (Arleta, Sylmar, San Fernando), Simi Valley to the West, and, to the North, the southern portions of Santa Clarita and Stevenson Ranch.

The best way to do this is to invite someone to sample our Friday night service. They can do this via Zoom, or that can join via Facebook Live via the Temple’s Facebook page. You’ll get the Zoom information in your weekly temple mailing that you can share. You can also recommend that folks contact the Temple office for information.

We also want you to go beyond asking local friends and family to meet her and our temple. First, you can spread the word on those social media sites you use. Spread the message on Facebook about our service. Look at the Temple’s Facebook page for information to share. Second, you can  introduce Rabbi Becky to your neighborhood using nextdoor.com . If you already have an account, you are ready.  If you need to register / create a new free account, click here:  https://help.nextdoor.com/s/article/How-to-join-Nextdoor?language=en_US. Once you have your account:

1. Go to your account on nextdoor.com
2. Select “General” under “Neighborhood”
3. Post a story about Rabbi Becky

We also encourage you to go write a rewiew of the Temple on Yelp. Jews across the Valley look to Yelp for reviews and recommendations for all sorts of products, services, restaurants and even which temple to join. If you were asked to recommend TAS, what good things would you say? Now is a particularly good time to write your review, with Rabbi Becky joining us and Cantor Ken continuing to make our musical moments magic. In case you wish to share your opinion and add a review on the TAS Yelp page, it is simple and easy:

1. Go to   http://www.yelp.com
2. In “Find” type “Temple Ahavat Shalom” and in “Near” type  “Northridge”
3. Then click on “Temple Ahavat Shalom”
4. Then click on “Write a Review”
5. Select Your Rating of   *****    (5 stars is best!)
6. In your own words write a review / answer the question “Would do you love about being a member Temple Ahavat Shalom?”

Here are some suggestions for things to mention in your post or review:

• Temple Ahavat Shalom is a 54 year old warm and welcoming Jewish Reform Congregation in Northridge.
• Mention how long you have been a member.
• Join us for a dynamic Shabbat service with our new rabbi, Rebecca Hoffman, and provide the date and time.
• Invite people to come check us out.
• For more information on our Zoom service or attending via Facebook Live, call Ben Tenn at (818) 360-2258 or contact Aaron Solomon at (818) 360-2258.

(Return to Top)

4. MRJ SPEAKER: Akiva Tor on SUN SEP 13 – Despite a Pandemic, the Holy Fire Will Burn

Listen to Akiva Tor’s interview with Media Line about a fiery Christian Orthodox ritual uninterrupted for ‘at least the last couple of centuries: the “Holy Fire” ceremony on April 18 at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the Christian Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City. The Media Line interview explores the annual ritual – and how it has been changed by Coronavirus. Akiva Tor is the head of the Bureau of World Jewish Affairs and World Religions of the Israeli Foreign Ministry.

After listening to the interview, join MRJ as we host him for a conversation on Sunday, September 13th at 1 p.m. ET. Register today.

Akiva Tor is the Head of Bureau for World Jewish Affairs and World Religions at the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Previously he served as Consul General of Israel for the Pacific Northwest, Director of the Israel Economic and Cultural Office in Taipei, Deputy Director for Palestinian Affairs in the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and as World Jewish Affairs Adviser to the President of Israel in which capacity he began the organization of the World Jewish Forum, an initiative for creating a pan-Jewish strategy for stemming assimilation and decline in Jewish life.

Akiva is a graduate of the Harvard University Kennedy School of Government, and holds an MA degree from Hebrew University in Jewish political thought and a BA from Columbia University in general philosophy. He has written and lectured on Jewish values in the foreign policy of Israel and on ethical considerations in international relations. He served as a paratrooper in the Israel Defense Forces and as an infantry captain in the IDF reserves. He is interested in running, mountain biking and ascending high places. Akiva is married to Naomi, a community social worker. Their home town is Beit Shemesh, near Jerusalem, and they have four children – Yonah, Zohar, Yehudah and Roni.

Read his blog pieces in the Times of Israel, including “Building a Bridge Over Troubled Waters.” You can also read his piece, “Pope Francis in Israel.”

(Return to Top)

IN CLOSING

As always, remember that the Men of Temple Ahavat Shalom is *your* organization. Keep up to date on our activities at http://www.tasnorthridge-motas.org/ and participate. Sign up for our action alert list at http://tinyurl.com/motas-action-alert. We want to serve all the men of Temple Ahavat Shalom and welcome new participants from the TAS membership. Join our Facebook group and “follow” our website. Come be part of the Men of Temple Ahavat Shalom!

(Return to Top)

In This Issue:

1. MoTAS Get Together, Sunday July 19
2. Monthly TAS Poker Game – Calling all Poker Players
3. Help Us Spread the News about Rabbi Becky
4. IN CLOSING

Note: As we enter into the Summer months, the MoTAS Weekly make take the occasional week off if there are no new items for the week. As always, you can find the weekly posted on our website at www.tasnorthridge-motas.org.

1. MoTAS Get Together, Sunday July 19

Our guys like to see each other and catch up.  While we don’t have our monthly meetings during summer, we are planning a morning Zoom on Sunday July 19 at 9am.  Just for fun, we will hold a short trivia contest.  If you would like to participate, use the following link to meet up with us on Zoom:

Topic: MoTAS July Get-together
Time: Jul 19, 2020 09:00 AM Pacific Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
Note: To prevent Zoom bombing, we don’t publish this information on the website. Please contact Howard for Meeting Information or check your emailed weekly. Dial in: 1-669-900-9128
Meeting ID: 870 2450 xxxx
Password: xxxxx

(Return to Top)

2. Monthly TAS Poker Game – Calling all Poker Players

If you like to play in a monthly game of poker and help out the temple, MoTAS is putting together a safe monthly online game of No Limit Hold-em.  A monthly tournament is a fun way to increase your skills at poker and make a bit of mullah.  Games would be played at 7:30 on the first Tuesday of each month.  The $20 buy-in would be handled by MoTAS.  MoTAS would take 15% of the stakes for our temple fundraising and the rest would be split 60% and 25% by the top two players.  Tournaments will take about 90 minutes.  If you (yes, men and women) have an interest, contact Howard Miller at hmiller12@socal.rr.com. 

(Return to Top)

3. Help Us Spread the News about Rabbi Becky

Now that Rabbi Becky has started at TAS, we need to let our community know about the changes at TAS. This is not the TAS of yore: all of what might have inhibited folks in prior years is in the past. We have a new Rabbi, a new Cantor, and most importantly: a new spirit and a stronger family. We need to let our communities know: not only the local North Valley of Chatsworth, Northridge, North Hills, and Granada Hills. We need to let the folks in all directions nearby know: the Southern portion of the valley (Reseda, Woodland Hills, Van Nuys, Encino, etc.), the communities to the East (Arleta, Sylmar, San Fernando), Simi Valley to the West, and, to the North, the southern portions of Santa Clarita and Stevenson Ranch.

The best way to do this is to invite someone to sample our Friday night service. They can do this via Zoom, or that can join via Facebook Live via the Temple’s Facebook page. You’ll get the Zoom information in your weekly temple mailing that you can share. You can also recommend that folks contact the Temple office for information.

We also want you to go beyond asking local friends and family to meet her and our temple. First, you can spread the word on those social media sites you use. Spread the message on Facebook about our service. Look at the Temple’s Facebook page for information to share. Second, you can  introduce Rabbi Becky to your neighborhood using nextdoor.com . If you already have an account, you are ready.  If you need to register / create a new free account, click here:  https://help.nextdoor.com/s/article/How-to-join-Nextdoor?language=en_US. Once you have your account:

1. Go to your account on nextdoor.com
2. Select “General” under “Neighborhood”
3. Post a story about Rabbi Becky

Here are some suggestions for things to mention in your post:

• Temple Ahavat Shalom is a 54 year old warm and welcoming Jewish Reform Congregation in Northridge.
• Mention how long you have been a member.
• Join us for a dynamic Shabbat service with our new rabbi, Rebecca Hoffman, and provide the date and time.
• Invite people to come check us out.
• For more information on our Zoom service or attending via Facebook Live, call Ben Tenn at (818) 360-2258 or contact Aaron Solomon at (818) 360-2258.

(Return to Top)

IN CLOSING

As always, remember that the Men of Temple Ahavat Shalom is *your* organization. Keep up to date on our activities at http://www.tasnorthridge-motas.org/ and participate. Sign up for our action alert list at http://tinyurl.com/motas-action-alert. We want to serve all the men of Temple Ahavat Shalom and welcome new participants from the TAS membership. Join our Facebook group and “follow” our website. Come be part of the Men of Temple Ahavat Shalom!

(Return to Top)

In This Issue:

1. July 3rd Shabbat Service Welcome for Rabbi Becky – 6:30
2. Help Us Spread the News about Rabbi Becky in Your Own Neighborhood
3. Monthly TAS Poker Game – Calling all Poker Players
4. MoTAS Get Together, Sunday July 19
5. IN CLOSING

Note: As we enter into the Summer months, the MoTAS Weekly make take the occasional week off if there are no new items for the week. As always, you can find the weekly posted on our website at www.tasnorthridge-motas.org.

1. July 3rd Shabbat Service Welcome for Rabbi Becky – 6:30

Our wonderful new Rabbi, Becky Hoffman, will be leading her first Shabbat service on Friday July 3.  Join the Men of TAS in making this service memorable by attending in force with your families and friends, creating the largest Zoom attendance ever.  If you have friends that were interested in TAS but were waiting to find out about our new Rabbi, make sure that they have the information so that they too can attend.  Let’s give Rabbi Becky a big MoTAS welcome.

6:30PM – Erev Shabbat Service with Rabbi Becky and Cantor Ken, Contact the temple office at 818-360-2258 info@TASnorthridge.org for information on the Zoom service.

(Return to Top)

2. Help Us Spread the News about Rabbi Becky in Your Own Neighborhood

The 6:30 Friday night Shabbat service via Zoom this week should be incredible.  We waqnt to get as many people onboard as possible and introduce people to our new rabbi.  There is something you can do beyond asking local friends and family to meet her and our temple. First, you can spread the word on those social media site you use. Spread the message on Facebook about our service. Look at the Temple’s Facebook page for information to share. Second, you can  introduce Rabbi Becky to your neighborhood using nextdoor.com . If you already have an account, you are ready.  If you need to register / create a new free account, click here:  https://help.nextdoor.com/s/article/How-to-join-Nextdoor?language=en_US. Once you have your account:

1. Go to your account on nextdoor.com
2. Select “General” under “Neighborhood”
3. Post a story about Rabbi Becky

Here are some suggestions for things to mention in your post:

1. Temple Ahavat Shalom is a 54 year old warm and welcoming Jewish Reform Congregation in Northridge.
2. Mention how long you have been a member.
3. Rabbi Rebecca Hoffman will be leading her inaugural / first Shabbat Service at TAS on Friday evening, July 3, at 6:30 via Zoom.  We are really excited.
4. Invite people to come check us out. You have the Zoom information above.
5. For more information on our Zoom service, call Ben Tenn at (818) 360-2258 or contact Aaron Solomon at (818) 360-2258.

(Return to Top)

3. Monthly TAS Poker Game – Calling all Poker Players

If you like to play in a monthly game of poker and help out the temple, MoTAS is putting together a safe monthly online game of No Limit Hold-em.  A monthly tournament is a fun way to increase your skills at poker and make a bit of mullah.  Games would be played at 7:30 on the first Tuesday of each month.  The $20 buy-in would be handled by MoTAS.  MoTAS would take 15% of the stakes for our temple fundraising and the rest would be split 60% and 25% by the top two players.  Tournaments will take about 90 minutes.  If you (yes, men and women) have an interest, contact Howard Miller at hmiller12@socal.rr.com. 

(Return to Top)

4. MoTAS Get Together, Sunday July 19

Our guys like to see each other and catch up.  While we don’t have our monthly meetings during summer, we are planning a morning Zoom on Sunday July 19 at 9am.  Just for fun, we will hold a short trivia contest.  If you would like to participate, use the following link to meet up with us on Zoom:

Topic: MoTAS July Get-together
Time: Jul 19, 2020 09:00 AM Pacific Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
Contact Howard Miller at hmiller12@socal.rr.com for the specifics of the Zoom meeting.

(Return to Top)

IN CLOSING

As always, remember that the Men of Temple Ahavat Shalom is *your* organization. Keep up to date on our activities at http://www.tasnorthridge-motas.org/ and participate. Sign up for our action alert list at http://tinyurl.com/motas-action-alert. We want to serve all the men of Temple Ahavat Shalom and welcome new participants from the TAS membership. Join our Facebook group and “follow” our website. Come be part of the Men of Temple Ahavat Shalom!

(Return to Top)

In This Issue:

1. MENS DISCUSSION GROUP – SUN JUN 28
2. FATHERS DAY REFLECTION
   
3. IN CLOSING

Note: As we enter into the Summer months, the MoTAS Weekly make take the occasional week off if there are no new items for the week. As always, you can find the weekly posted on our website at www.tasnorthridge-motas.org.

1. MENS DISCUSSION GROUP – SUN JUN 28

Tune into the next installment of the Men’s Discussion Group, Sunday, June 28th, 7pm.  The topic will be a general check-in chat, with some emphasis on how you and your family (including children/grandchildren) are handling the Covid-19, and if you’re doing anything unusual.  Contact Bob Levine at tasboblevine@gmail.com if you wish to participate.  “Seating” is limited.  Bring your own food.

(Return to Top)

2. FATHERS DAY REFLECTION

Mike Thornhill brought to our attention a nice essay for Father’s Day from one of our local MRJ  men: You can find it at https://reformjudaism.org/blog/2020/06/18/fathers-father-figures-and-jewish-concept-ldor-vador. Here’s the text:

Each Father’s Day, I reflect on my father, now deceased, and my relationship with him, and his relationship with me. I also reflect on the men who have become father figures to me, not so much in place of my father, but as wonderful supplements who continue to provide the love, support, guidance, and wisdom I need and yearn for in a father or father figure, even as a middle-aged man.

My father was an imperfect man. But so what, and who isn’t. My father was, however, perfect in at least one area, and that was in providing me with unconditional love, a love I still feel and relish today, long after his physical passing. So long as I was happy, my father was happy for me. What a blessing.

Even before my father’s passing, and increasingly since, various men have assumed a fatherly role in my life. Some are related to me by blood, some by longstanding familiar relationships, some through friendship, and some for only moments in time through happenstance. Each of these father figures has been essential to my continued well-being, and each has contributed to the making of the man that I am today. Also a blessing.

Our tradition commands us to honor our father. I accept a more expansive commandment – to honor all men, however denominated, who have served and who continue to serve in a fatherly role in support of me.

The concept of fatherhood has expanded greatly over the years. Beyond biological fathers, we have adoptive fathers, stepfathers, surrogate fathers, God fathers, and foster fathers. Often, grandfathers become the central father figure in a child’s life. Many men assume a fatherly role for children who might not otherwise have an adult male presence in their lives. And in our ever-changing and evolving world, it is not uncommon for women to assume the “fatherly” role in a child’s life. Fatherhood is no longer defined solely by biology and/or the law, and all fatherly relationships are equally worthy of acknowledgment and celebration.

Within our tradition, we often reflect on l’dor vador, from generation to generation. We often speak in terms of “passing down” or “passing on” our traditions. But as Father’s Day approaches, I think in terms of the mutuality of the relationship between generations, and the mutuality in the fatherly relationships we create. So on Father’s Day, while children celebrate their fathers, what better way for the fathers to honor their fathers on Father’s Day than to celebrate their children. What might seemingly be a unilateral celebration is rather, in fact, a mutual obligation.

So far, I have assumed (wrongly) that we all have nurturing father-child relationships or affirming father figures in our lives worthy of celebration. We know this is not the case far too often. Since Jewish tradition already embraces multiple dates for marking the New Year, perhaps Father’s Day can be added as an additional marking point, with the hope and promise of a fresh start or a second chance at building upon one of the most precious relationships we know.

And to all of the fathers and father figures, I say not only kol hakavod (with respect, good job), but also, allow yourselves to embrace your imperfections. You are under tremendous pressure from so many angles and quarters. It is not easy being a “man” today, let alone a “father.” Expectations are changing, often without you even knowing about it. But with any luck, and a little blessing, you will embrace the honor bestowed upon you by your children and those who love you, and you will freely and mutually return the honor.

On this Father’s Day, may we all be blessed with the wisdom and insight to acknowledge and to value the healthy relationships we have, and to mend or re-create the relationships we seek. Father’s Day is a day when we reflect on the memories, celebrate the moment, and dream of the future. May we do this individually with our families, and collectively as a Reform Movement and as a Jewish People.

This essay was first published in 2014. At the time of original publication,Stuart L. Leviton was the lay president of Men of Reform Judaism, an affiliate of the Union for Reform Judaism. Stuart is also a past co-president of Congregation Kol Ami, West Hollywood, CA, and an attorney in Los Angeles, CA.

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IN CLOSING

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