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

(Return to Top)

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.

(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 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)

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

(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. 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.”

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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!

(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

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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. 

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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

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.

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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.

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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

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 is Here to Help / WELLNESS CONNECTION
2. A Bright Future – Rabbi Becky Hoffman: Meet her at the June 14 Monthly Zoom meeting
3. MoTAS Supports the 2020 Temple Gala: You Should Too!  SATURDAY June 20
4. IN CLOSING

1. MoTAS is Here to Help / WELLNESS CONNECTION

Our President, Howard Miller, wants everyone to know that our men’s group has talents, expertise, and friendly guys willing to help our fellow congregants in the time of need during the pandemic. If there is something one of our members might be able to help you with, even just a friendly voice, you are welcome to call Howard at (818) 993-0796.  He will help find someone who can answer your questions, find people to provide a friendly call, and work with our Caring Community to help with various needs.

Additionally, we would like to remind you of the Wellness Connection being provided by the Temple. Men, in particular, have a problem with reaching out when they are in need. MoTAS is here for you, your Temple friends are here for your, but sometimes you need a little bit more. That’s where the TAS Wellness Connection comes in. Our temple has three mental health professionals who have availed their services to us at no charge through our TAS Wellness Connection. Simply, send an email to caringcommunity@tasnorthridge.org and provide your name, contact number, and age, and a therapist will be in contact with you. As the Cantor recently reminded us, “pain in life is unavoidable, suffering is optional.”

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2. A Bright Future – Rabbi Becky Hoffman: Meet her at the June 14 Monthly Zoom meeting

Our temple’s biggest news of course is that we will have a new Rabbi to lead TAS into the future.  Rabbi Becky (as she likes to be called) will be an asset to our temple.  She is warm, intelligent and easy to talk with.  We will introduce her to MoTAS and she will tell us a little bit about herself and her family.  Rabbi Becky is looking forward to meeting our group.  Join us on Zoom and help us give Rabbi Becky a warm welcome to TAS!

Topic: MoTAS June 14 Meeting
Time: Jun 14, 2020 9:00 AM

Join Zoom Meeting (click on the link):
(CONTACT HOWARD FOR LINK)

Meeting ID: (CONTACT HOWARD FOR MEETING ID) (If needed)
Password: 8XXXb7

For those using the phone for audio, or who are just dialing in, the dial-in for the meeting is: (669) 900-9128. Note that this is an out-of-area call, for anyone that still might pay long distance.

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3. MoTAS Supports the 2020 Temple Gala: You Should Too!  SATURDAY June 20

MoTAS has always supported our temple’s gala.  MoTAS will be purchasing a $1,000 full page ad for this year’s Gala of Gratitude. 

The Gala is TAS’ biggest fundraiser and needs to be successful now more than ever. COVID-19 will have a large impact on our current budget.  While the Gala will be held virtually on Saturday June 20, your financial  and online support is paramount to our temple’s success.  So, Laraine and I have a challenge for everyone in MoTAS whether or not you have attended TAS Galas in the past.  Tickets to previous galas would have cost each couple almost $400 to attend and you had to get all gussied up.  Pretend this year’s prices went up, purchase a half page ad with your personal message for $450.  Or, if you will really miss the dinner, purchase a quarter page ad for $236.  Check the latest temple email bulletin for larger or smaller contributions.  Let’s make our MoTAS members the Gala’s largest group of supporters.  And you won’t have to spend hours deciding between beef, chicken or fish! According to Howard, he and Laraine are going to get all gussied up and attend the virtual Gala on June 20.  He hopes you and your wife are thinking about it also.  We would love to toast the future of TAS with you that night.  Please check your temple emails for more information or find out where you put your invitation.  See you there!

(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 is Here to Help / WELLNESS CONNECTION
2. A Bright Future – Rabbi Becky Hoffman: Meet her at the June 14 Monthly Zoom meeting
3. MoTAS Brings WiFi to TAS
4. MoTAS Supports the 2020 Temple Gala: You Should Too!  SATURDAY June 20
5. MENS HANGOUT – POSTPONED
6. MRJ WEBINAR ON COMBATING ANTISEMITISM AND HATE – JUN 9
7. IN CLOSING

1. MoTAS is Here to Help / WELLNESS CONNECTION

Our President, Howard Miller, wants everyone to know that our men’s group has talents, expertise, and friendly guys willing to help our fellow congregants in the time of need during the pandemic. If there is something one of our members might be able to help you with, even just a friendly voice, you are welcome to call Howard at (818) 993-0796.  He will help find someone who can answer your questions, find people to provide a friendly call, and work with our Caring Community to help with various needs.

Additionally, we would like to remind you of the Wellness Connection being provided by the Temple. Men, in particular, have a problem with reaching out when they are in need. MoTAS is here for you, your Temple friends are here for your, but sometimes you need a little bit more. That’s where the TAS Wellness Connection comes in. Our temple has three mental health professionals who have availed their services to us at no charge through our TAS Wellness Connection. Simply, send an email to caringcommunity@tasnorthridge.org and provide your name, contact number, and age, and a therapist will be in contact with you. As the Cantor recently reminded us, “pain in life is unavoidable, suffering is optional.”

(Return to Top)

2. A Bright Future – Rabbi Becky Hoffman: Meet her at the June 14 Monthly Zoom meeting

Our temple’s biggest news of course is that we will have a new Rabbi to lead TAS into the future.  Rabbi Becky (as she likes to be called) will be an asset to our temple.  She is warm, intelligent and easy to talk with.  We will introduce her to MoTAS and she will tell us a little bit about herself and her family.  Rabbi Becky is looking forward to meeting our group.  Join us on Zoom and help us give Rabbi Becky a warm welcome to TAS!

Topic: MoTAS June 14 Meeting
Time: Jun 14, 2020 9:00 AM

Join Zoom Meeting (click on the link): (contact Howard for Link)

Meeting ID: (contact Howard for Meeting ID) (If needed)
Password: 8XXXb7

For those using the phone for audio, or who are just dialing in, the dial-in for the meeting is: (669) 900-9128. Note that this is an out-of-area call, for anyone that still might pay long distance.

(Return to Top)

3. MoTAS Brings WiFi to TAS

Earlier this year, MoTAS committed $5,000 toward generating full WiFi capability for TAS. Due to the efforts of Larry Pfefer, working with Spectrum, as of April 1st every office computer at the temple now has high speed broadband.  But that is only part of the story.  Our ability to use WiFi is just enough to support a pirate radio show across the main office.  To bring TAS into the 21st century, MoTAS has committed the remaining money needed to support full WiFi capability to the majority of the campus.

MoTAS will use our $5K allocation to pay for the remaining required local cabling and wireless access points needed.  This equipment will support wireless capabilities for the offices, Chapel, sanctuary and social hall as well as the school office, many classrooms and common areas such as the BBQ area, our playgrounds and hopefully, the parking lot.

The goal is to enable ALL of our members and staff to make full use of internet capabilities across the campus.  TAS will be able to stream services when we are ready and our temple staff, our security [alarm] monitoring company and first responders will be able to view our security cameras onsite and remotely in real time in case of emergencies.

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4. MoTAS Supports the 2020 Temple Gala: You Should Too!  SATURDAY June 20

MoTAS has always supported our temple’s gala.  MoTAS will be purchasing a $1,000 full page ad for this year’s Gala of Gratitude. 

The Gala is TAS’ biggest fundraiser and needs to be successful now more than ever. COVID-19 will have a large impact on our current budget.  While the Gala will be held virtually on Saturday June 20, your financial  and online support is paramount to our temple’s success.  So, Laraine and I have a challenge for everyone in MoTAS whether or not you have attended TAS Galas in the past.  Tickets to previous galas would have cost each couple almost $400 to attend and you had to get all gussied up.  Pretend this year’s prices went up, purchase a half page ad with your personal message for $450.  Or, if you will really miss the dinner, purchase a quarter page ad for $236.  Check the latest temple email bulletin for larger or smaller contributions.  Let’s make our MoTAS members the Gala’s largest group of supporters.  And you won’t have to spend hours deciding between beef, chicken or fish!

According to Howard, he and Laraine are going to get all gussied up and attend the virtual Gala on June 20.  He hopes you and your wife are thinking about it also.  We would love to toast the future of TAS with you that night.  Please check your temple emails for more information or find out where you put your invitation.  See you there!

(Return to Top)

5. MENS HANGOUT – POSTPONED

Unfortunately, there was limited response to the May Mens Hangout, so it has been postponed until after our June meeting.  Perhaps people are overwhelmed with all the zoom opportunities around, and this is just one more…. MoTAS recognizes that the quarantine is affecting us all, and both in similar and also unique ways.  In a few weeks, whatever the situation, there may be more people who want to dig between the weeds and express how your life is being changed and how you are adapting, or not, and how it makes you feel about it. Please mention to your MoTAS friends about this confidential opportunity to share what’s really going on. If you would be interested in participating in June, please contact Bob Levine at tasboblevine@gmail.com . All men are welcome to attend. (Return to Top)

6. MRJ WEBINAR ON COMBATING ANTISEMITISM AND HATE – JUN 9

MRJ invites MoTAS to participate in a webinar led by German Consul General David Gil on the subject of combating Anti-Semitism and Hate.  The webinar will be held at 6pm on Tuesday June 9.  His background includes overseeing the dissolution of the East German Stassi (secret police). If interested, you will need to register at:

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ZxwEBWnXRASkXPQtmILXSw

Here’s the abstract:

Germany has been a world leader in the efforts to educate and eliminate anti-Semitism and hate. On Thursday, April 30, 2020, Germany outlawed all Hezbollah activities, including those of its political wing. Here’s more infomation: https://bit.ly/2SA9dkN The speaker is Consul General David Gill, German Consulate General New York. Born in 1966, Gill grew up in a protestant minister’s family in Herrnhut, Saxony, in former East Germany. He was denied a higher education by the communist regime for political reasons. Instead, he trained and worked as a plumber before joining a preparatory protestant school and later the theological seminary of the Protestant Church in Berlin-Brandenburg. In 1990, he initially was the chairman of Normannenstrasse Citizens’ Committee which oversaw the dissolution of the Ministry of State Security at the Stasi headquarters and served as the secretary of the Special Committee for the dissolution of the Stasi of the East German Parliament. After reunification, Gill became spokesman and head of the research division of the Federal Commissioner for the Stasi-Files before studying law in Berlin and Philadelphia. After holding positions in the Federal Ministry of the Interior and at the Commissioner for Data Protection and Freedom of Information in Berlin, he served as the Deputy Representative of the Council of the Protestant Church in Germany to the Federal Republic of Germany and the European Union. During Federal President Joachim Gauck’s term from 2012-2017, he was state secretary and chief of staff of the President. Since August 2017, he has been the German Consul General in New York.

(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)