In This Issue:

1. FR JAN 22: 2021 MOTAS SHABBAT SERVICE
2. WE JAN 27:TU B’SHEVAT TIME
3. SHARE YOUR SIMCHAS FOR FEBRUARY
4. TU FEB 02: SUPER BOWL SQUARES NOW AVAILABLE
5. SU FEB 21: MOTAS MEMBERSHIP MEETING – AL LAPIDES on ADVERTISING
6. JANUARY MEMBERSHIP MEETING MINUTES
7. IN CLOSING

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1. FR JAN 22: 2021 MOTAS SHABBAT SERVICE

As you are aware, every year MoTAS has an opportunity to lead the congregation in prayer.  We also give the temple our unofficial “State of MoTAS” address, and announce our Man of the Year.  This year, our service will be held on Friday, January 22, 2021, 6:30 PM, via Zoom. If you are participating in the service, you should have already received an email from Bob Levine. Those participating should log into the zoom meeting by 6:15 so we can do a sound check, practice unmuting/muting, and have general announcements related to the service itself.  The service will begin at approximately 6:30.  Open the Service and scroll down to find your name on the slides, which indicates how you will participate. 

We know we’re going to have a great, meaningful service, as MoTAS shares with the community inspiration and news of our continued work for the temple.  And, by the way, Howard will announce our newest Man of the Year.  He will not be accepting contributions to MoTAS for you to get advance information.  

Here’s the information on the Zoom service:

• Click to join: Contact the Temple for Zoom Information

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2. WE JAN 27:TU B’SHEVAT TIME

Tu B’Shevat, which celebrates the birthday of the trees, starts on the evening of Wednesday, January 27. This year, we’re not hosting the MoTAS Tu B’Shevat service for the congregation or the school due to COVID, but that doesn’t mean the holiday isn’t here. If you would like to celebrate Tu B’Shevat with our service and your family, visit our Tu B’Shevat Seder page. Ignore the date and the flyer, and scroll to the bottom. There you will find a link to our Tu B’Shevat Seder. You can also go directly to https://app.box.com/s/8m3gd5mro3z91k53o53j1a4v8hx6p9pb and download a copy for yourself.

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3. SHARE YOUR SIMCHAS FOR FEBRUARY

If you have a Simcha you want to share, click here for the link to submit your Simcha. Submissions will be due no later than the last day of the month prior to the month of publication. We are now taking January submissions to be listed on February 10, 2021. For more details or questions contact Bob Levine. If you are interested in making a donation to TAS in honor of your Simcha, click here. A donation is not required to submit your Simcha.

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4. TU FEB 02: SUPER BOWL SQUARES NOW AVAILABLE

The Monday Night Football season is over, and now is the time to buy a Superbowl Square. The cost is only $25 per square, and you can help Temple Ahavat Shalom while potentially rewarding yourself. The price is the same as last year, although on-line registrations now have a small handling fee from TicketLeap that we used to absorb — this allows reduces the cost to MoTAS and allows us to do more for TAS. Payouts are the same: $230 for each quarter, and $460 for the final score. A full board of 91 squares pays out $1150 to players, and $1125 to MoTAS. You can find the rules of the game, register and pay online, or find a form that you can print and mail in, at http://squares.tasnorthridge-motas.org/. Squares must be purchased by the Tuesday before the Super Bowl.

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5. SU FEB 21: MOTAS MEMBERSHIP MEETING – AL LAPIDES on ADVERTISING

Our February 21 MoTAS Meeting will feature our own Al Lapides speaking on The History of Advertising and its Effect on Society.  The presentation will cover the early roots and history of advertising to the 21st century.   Much of advertising can be applied to discussions on the ideas and ideals we believe in.  The key is to identify your target, and engage and motivate the people or groups you desire to help your cause or buy your product.  The debate includes whether advertising should entertain and/or irritate (yes that too) your audience, as well as inform them.  Al will also cover the 5 different types of advertising:

1. Product or service direct to consumer
2. Institutional / corporate
3. Targeted business or trade advertising
4. Political advertising
5. Lobbying advertising focused on or to consumers

Zoom details will be in a future weekly.

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6. JANUARY MEMBERSHIP MEETING MINUTES

Date: Sunday, January 10, 2021 via Zoom due to social isolation related to the pandemic

Presiding: President Howard Miller

Members Present: Howard Miller (President), Hal Bass (Secretary), Les Birken, Daniel Faigin (Past President), Ken Feldman, Scott Gore, Brian Hatkoff, Fred Kimmel, Al Lapides, Ed Lapporte, Bob Levine, Roger Lowe (Treasurer), Joel Lowell, Chuck Mondrus, Mark Moskowitz, Jeff Neiman, Russ Rapoport (VP), Bill Shapiro, Bernie Singer, Alan Stepakoff, Sandy Stern, Ben Tenn, Mike Thornhill, Ken Wolf, Scott Yollis

Guests: Rabbi Becky Hoffman, Mel Birken, Karen Davis, Cheryl Hatkoff, Gloria Katcher, Fran Lapides, Laurie Mondrus, Kathy Pullman, Sheila Reback, Debbie Schwartz, Tammy Singer, Cindy Tenn, Tyree Wieder, Sandy Zonnis

President’s Report:

Howard began the meeting by asking members what they wish to happen to them and their families in 2021.

Howard thanked Hal Bass for last month’s presentation on the Armenian Genocide.

MoTAS provided $500 in support for two families in serious financial straits. Howard informed the group that as a result of hearing this, two other individuals have donated to TAS to help such families.

Howard encouraged members to purchase Super Bowl Squares, explaining that income from Sports Squares helps finance special projects and other activities not funded by the temple. Prior examples include an emergency water heater replacement, synthetic turf for the ECEC playground, foyer restroom upgrades, and WiFi enhancements.

Bob Levine announced that 29 Super Bowl squares are still open. Squares are available for $25 each–up to two squares per person or four squares when a spouse or partner is included.

The annual MoTAS Men’s Shabbat is in the planning stage. It will take place on January 22. Members were asked to notify Bob Levine by email at tasboblevine@gmail.com if they wish to participate in the service. It is at the Men’s Shabbat that our MoTAS Man of the Year is announced.

Our 2020 Man of the Year, Les Birken, was presented with a plaque by Howard in a ceremony recorded on video at the Birkens’ home, since the annual regional awards dinner could not be held last year due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Bob Levine will publish simchas in the temple’s Wednesday and Friday eblasts. Email your simchas to Bob at tasboblevine@gmail.com. January 31 is this month’s deadline for publication on February 9.

The 2021 MoTAS Annual Appeal will be announced shortly. This activity provides funds for Avodah, camperships, b’nai mitzvah and confirmation gifts, and our annual commitment to TAS.

Howard’s mid-year MoTAS budget review anticipated total income of $8,800 and expenses of $9,392. Hopefully, the Annual Appeal will erase the $592 shortfall.

Treasurer’s Report, as of 01/06/21:

Income: $0

Expenses: 

Sports Squares Distributions:

• Exit sign lighting upgrades not covered by DWP: $1,500 (funds not yet allocated)
• Support for two TAS member families: $500

Sports Squares:
Prior Years Sports Squares Balance: $5,145
2020-21 Football Squares:

Income $4,828; Winners paid out <$1,925>; Winnings donated back $125; Net $3,028

2021 Super Bowl

Income $425; Winners paid out $0; Net $425

Total Sports Squares Funds Available for Distribution: $8,598 ($5,145+$3,028+425)

Rabbi Becky’s Presentation:

Rabbi Becky began by asking the men and women present to list what they considered to be the temple’s greatest strength. Many of the responses touched upon camaraderie, innovative programming and rabbinic leadership. She said TAS is poised to be the most vibrant Jewish force in the North Valley and directed people to the Mission Statement on the TAS website’s home page.

Rabbi Becky enumerated the temple’s myriad strengths: MoTAS, Sisterhood, small groups, havurot, Caring Community, Melton program participation, online Shabbat services via Zoom and on Facebook, Meditation & Music, Religious School, weekly Torah study, Zoom to Commune, Social Action Committee, High Holy Days food collection, and voter information.

Our challenges provide multiple opportunities. Many young families with children in school or even younger are struggling, and the temple leadership is working to form small groups of these young families based on the ages of their children or their grades in school. We strive to provide dynamic services, obtain outside speakers, engage in social justice, and develop a new paradigm for services and other activities once the pandemic has been brought under control.

Rabbi Becky’s presentation was very well attended and greatly appreciated by all who listened to her and asked follow-up questions.

Adjournment and Next MoTAS Meeting: The next meeting will be held by Zoom, Sunday, February 21, 2021, at 9:00 am. Al Lapides will do an educational presentation entitled, “History of Advertising and Its Effect on Society.” 

Respectfully submitted,
Hal Bass/Secretary

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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. SU JAN 10: MOTAS JANUARY MEETING – RABBI BECKY
2. SHARE YOUR SIMCHAS FOR FEBRUARY
3. FR JAN 22: 2021 MOTAS SHABBAT SERVICE
4. TU FEB 02: SUPER BOWL SQUARES NOW AVAILABLE
5. IN CLOSING

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1. SU JAN 10: MOTAS JANUARY MEETING – RABBI BECKY

We have finalized planss with Rabbi Becky to speak at our January 10th meeting.  Rabbi Becky will be giving us a half year update.  She will talk about her experience in getting to know the temple and its members, what she has learned and where she would like to see for TAS in the future. As always, the business meeting will start at 9am with Virtual Lox and Bagels (meaning we’ll show you pictures of them), and our speaker will start between 945am and 10am.

Here is the Zoom information for our Jan 10 monthly meeting. MoTAS members should join at 9am; guests are invited to join at 9:45.

Join Zoom Meeting: Contact Howard Miller at president@tasnorthridge-motas.org for meeting information.

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2. SHARE YOUR SIMCHAS FOR FEBRUARY

If you have a Simcha you want to share, click here for the link to submit your Simcha. Submissions will be due no later than the last day of the month prior to the month of publication. We are now taking January submissions to be listed on February 10, 2021. For more details or questions contact Bob Levine. If you are interested in making a donation to TAS in honor of your Simcha, click here. A donation is not required to submit your Simcha.

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3. FR JAN 22: 2021 MOTAS SHABBAT SERVICE

As you are aware, every year MoTAS has an opportunity to lead the congregation in prayer.  We also give the temple our unofficial “State of MoTAS” address, and announce our Man of the Year.  In past years, interested men were able to participate in the service, by reading sections in English, prayers in Hebrew, singing in our “choir,” or making brief reflections on their experiences with MoTAS.This year we’ll be virtual so the structure is still being worked out, but we hope to have something similar.

This year, our service will be held on Friday, January 22, 2021, 6:30 PM, via Zoom

Please contact Bob Levine, at tasboblevine@gmail.com if you are able to join in, and what you would like to do.  If you are unable/unwilling/not available, please let Bob know as well.

More information regarding what you would be doing will be sent out as soon as the service is put together. (Return to Top)

4. TU FEB 02: SUPER BOWL SQUARES NOW AVAILABLE

The Monday Night Football season is over, and now is the time to buy a Superbowl Square. The cost is only $25 per square, and you can help Temple Ahavat Shalom while potentially rewarding yourself. The price is the same as last year, although on-line registrations now have a small handling fee from TicketLeap that we used to absorb — this allows reduces the cost to MoTAS and allows us to do more for TAS. Payouts are the same: $230 for each quarter, and $460 for the final score. A full board of 91 squares pays out $1150 to players, and $1125 to MoTAS. You can find the rules of the game, register and pay online, or find a form that you can print and mail in, at http://squares.tasnorthridge-motas.org/. Squares must be purchased by the Tuesday before the Super Bowl.

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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. DECEMBER 13 MOTAS MEETING: The Armenian Genocide: Prelude to The Holocaust
   
2. MRJ SEMINAR: THE ELECTION: A JEWISH PERSPECTIVE — DEC 21
3. support the siSTERHOOD GIFT Shop for chanukah
4. CHRISTMAKKAH MOTAS EVENT:  Friday December 25
5. 2021 MOTAS SHABBAT SERVICE: FRIDAY JANUARY 22
   
6. IN CLOSING

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1. DECEMBER 13 MOTAS MEETING: The Armenian Genocide: Prelude to The Holocaust.

At our October meeting program, Dr. Hal Bass will present a review of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-23 and Hitler’s comment on the eve of World War II, “Who speaks today of the extermination of the Armenians?”  Hal will also take note of the recent Armenian-Azeri war over Nagorno-Karabakh, in which Israeli-made drones sold to its ally Azerbaijan played a major role in Armenia’s defeat. Our meeting begins at 9am via the Zoom instructions below and those interested in attending the meeting program can join on the same Zoom call at 9:45am (promptly).

Join Zoom Meeting:
Contact Howard Miller at hmiller12@socal.rr.com for URL

Meeting ID: xxx xxxx xxxx
Passcode: ******

Dial by your location if connecting via cell phone:
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose and Los Angeles)

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2. MRJ SEMINAR: THE ELECTION: A JEWISH PERSPECTIVE — DEC 21

You are invited to join the Men of Reform Judaism on December 21, 2020 at 5pm Pacific for a very unique and insightful examination of the election results: “The Election: A Jewish Perspective“. Our speaker will be Rabbi David Saperstein, and he will be talking about the effects of our relationship with Israel, and our relationship with other denominations.

For 40 years, Rabbi Saperstein directed the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, representing the Reform Jewish Movement, the largest segment of American Jewry, to the U.S. Congress and Administration and currently serves as its Director Emeritus. Designated by Newsweek Magazine as the most influential rabbi in America and by the Washington Post as the “quintessential religious lobbyist on Capitol Hill,” for over two years (2015-2017), Rabbi Saperstein served as the U.S. Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom, carrying out his responsibilities as the country’s chief diplomat on religious freedom issues. Also, an attorney, he taught seminars on Church–State law and on Jewish Law for 35 years at Georgetown University Law Center. In 2019-2020, Rabbi Saperstein served as the President of the World Union for Progressive Judaism, the international arm of the Reform Jewish Movement.

The meeting will be held over Zoom, and you MUST register in advance. To register, visit https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Yoj4_U5oRta8glIPeVjkPQ .

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3. support the siSTERHOOD GIFT Shop for chanukah

Get your Hanukkah necessities at our TAS Sisterhood Judaica Shop. The TAS Sisterhood Judaica Shop is open for private appointments, Monday through Friday during business hours. Masks are required and temperature will be taken by office staff. Proceeds benefit the many programs that Sisterhood provides TAS and the national Women of Reform Judaism. To arrange your private appointment, please contact Laraine Miller at 818-631-8199 or tzlady@socal.rr.com. Your patronage is appreciated.

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4. CHRISTMAKKAH MOTAS EVENT:  Friday December 25

Our MoTAS Christmas Night tradition has been to meet for Chinese after going to a movie.  Well, neither of those are going to happen this year.  However, we can still get together for something different via Zoom.  Shabbat services for that Friday will be held at 5pm.  For those that are interested, we can Zoom a special movie at 7:30 and discuss it or just pass stories after the movie.  If you are interested, please email Howard at hmiller12@socal.rr.com and Larry at lpfefer@tasnorthridge.org.  Let us know if you would like to view a comedy, action, or drama, or recommend a specific movie for that night (as long as it exists in the Pfefer archives).

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5. 2021 MOTAS SHABBAT SERVICE: FRIDAY JANUARY 22

Our annual MoTAS Shabbat service will be held on January 22.  More details will follow in future MoTAS Weeklies.  Who will be our 2021 Man of the Year?!. (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. MARK YOUR Calendars: DECEMBER 13 MOTAS MEETING
   
2. MRJ SEMINAR: THE ELECTION: A JEWISH PERSPECTIVE — DEC 21
3. support the siSTERHOOD GIFT Shop for chanukah
4. NOvember meeting minutes
   
5. IN CLOSING

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1. MARK YOUR Calendars: DECEMBER 13 MOTAS MEETING

Please mark your calendar for our next membership meeting on Sunday, December 13 at 9am. We are still finalizing the speaker, but you can trust that we’ll have a virtual breakfast that can’t be beat (because you get to make your favorite food).

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2. MRJ SEMINAR: THE ELECTION: A JEWISH PERSPECTIVE — DEC 21

You are invited to join the Men of Reform Judaism on December 21, 2020 at 5pm Pacific for a very unique and insightful examination of the election results: “The Election: A Jewish Perspective“. Our speaker will be Rabbi David Saperstein, and he will be talking about the effects of our relationship with Israel, and our relationship with other denominations.

For 40 years, Rabbi Saperstein directed the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, representing the Reform Jewish Movement, the largest segment of American Jewry, to the U.S. Congress and Administration and currently serves as its Director Emeritus. Designated by Newsweek Magazine as the most influential rabbi in America and by the Washington Post as the “quintessential religious lobbyist on Capitol Hill,” for over two years (2015-2017), Rabbi Saperstein served as the U.S. Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom, carrying out his responsibilities as the country’s chief diplomat on religious freedom issues. Also, an attorney, he taught seminars on Church–State law and on Jewish Law for 35 years at Georgetown University Law Center. In 2019-2020, Rabbi Saperstein served as the President of the World Union for Progressive Judaism, the international arm of the Reform Jewish Movement.

The meeting will be held over Zoom, and you MUST register in advance. To register, visit https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Yoj4_U5oRta8glIPeVjkPQ .

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3. support the siSTERHOOD GIFT Shop for chanukah

Get your Hanukkah necessities at our TAS Sisterhood Judaica Shop. The TAS Sisterhood Judaica Shop is open for private appointments, Monday through Friday during business hours. Masks are required and temperature will be taken by office staff. Proceeds benefit the many programs that Sisterhood provides TAS and the national Women of Reform Judaism. To arrange your private appointment, please contact Laraine Miller at 818-631-8199 or tzlady@socal.rr.com. Your patronage is appreciated.

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4. NOvember meeting minutes

Date: Sunday, November 15, 2020 via Zoom due to social isolation related to the pandemic

Presiding: President Howard Miller

Members Present: Howard Miller (President), Hal Bass (Secretary), Les Birken, Daniel Faigin (Past President), Ken Feldman, Scott Gore, Brian Hatkoff, Al Lapides, Ed Lapporte, Bob Levine, Roger Lowe (Treasurer), Barry Mann, Chuck Mondrus, Mark Moskowitz, Larry Pfefer (VP), Russ Rapoport (VP), Todd Reznik, Bill Shapiro, Bernie Singer, Sandy Stern, Mike Thornhill, Ken Wolf, and Scott Yollis.  Guests: Mel Birken, Sue Cohen, Cheryl Hatkoff, Annette Held, Janet Rice, Fran Lapides, Debby Lieber, Andy Mann, Laraine Miller, Elaine Pfefferman, Sheila Reback, Tyree Wieder, and Sandy Zonnis.

President’s Report:

Howard began the meeting by asking MoTAS members about their Thanksgiving plans.

Howard thanked Scott Gore for last month’s presentation on NASA’s Mars project.

Howard expressed gratitude to Hal Bass, Bob Levine and Roger Lowe for planning the well-attended Shabbat service honoring our veterans on November 13, and he has also emailed a note of appreciation to  Rabbi Becky.

Mark Moskowitz volunteered to explore the feasibility of providing a plaque containing the names of military veterans among the TAS membership.

The Sisterhood Hanukkah Boutique this year is a virtual event thru December 31.

MoTAS is sponsoring a station at the Hanukkah drive-by on Friday, December 11. Four to six volunteers are needed to pass out boxes of potato latke mix. Howard requested that members contact him with ideas for MoTAS projects or educational presentations.

Debby Lieber has asked people to make their Count Me In campaign contributions, if they have not already done so.

A kashrut task force is in the planning stage.

The temple’s new clergy assistant, Debbie Shayer, comes to TAS with a considerable background in the field.

The access control project will shortly be implemented.

Howard and Daniel Faigin are looking into holding a Zoom dinner for “Christmaskkah” on December 25.

Bob Levine will publish simchas in the temple’s Wednesday and Friday eblasts. Email your simchas to Bob at tasboblevine@gmail.com. November 30 is this month’s deadline for publication on December 9.

Brian Hatkoff announced that the Men of Reform Judaism is presenting a webinar on December 21 featuring Rabbi David Saperstein, director of the Religious Action Center in Washington, D.C.

Treasurer’s Report, as of 11/10/20:

Income: $0
Expenses: $0

Sports Squares Distributions:

• Exit sign lighting upgrades not covered by DWP: $1,500 (funds not yet allocated)
• Grant for Eagle Scout project organized by William Rosen to build ECEC equipment: $350

Sports Squares:

Prior Years Sports Squares Funds: $5,645

2020-21 Football Squares:

• Income $4,828; Winners paid out <$925> Net $3,903

Total Sports Squares Funds Available for Distribution: $9,548 ($5,645+$3,903)

New Business: Howard moved, and Al Lapides seconded, a motion to contribute $180 to the Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund in recognition of Rabbi Becky’s involvement in the Veterans’ Shabbat service on November 13. The motion carried.

Howard Miller moved, and Larry Pfefer seconded, a motion to contribute $300 to sponsor a station of 4-6 MoTAS volunteers at a Hanukkah drive-by on Friday, December 11. MoTAS members manning the station will pass out boxes of potato latke mix. The motion carried.

Educational Presentation: Janet Rice, a member of the TAS Board of Trustees, discussed the veterans’ homeless crisis and plans to provide housing on the West Side VA campus. Janet literally grew up at TAS. Her parents, Bess &amp; Gary Himler, of blessed memory, were founding members of the congregation in 1965. Janet graduated Phi Beta Kappa from UCSB and went on to receive a master’s degree from the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas in Austin. She has had extensive experience working with the Department of Defense in a civilian capacity. She is currently the western regional director for The Craddock Group, a service-disabled-veteran-owned firm that specializes in capital planning and real estate development. The Craddock Group is one of several companies engaged in an attractive four-phase project to provide 1,691 residences for homeless veterans on the grounds of the VA center in West L.A. Janet pointed to the urgent need for housing homeless veterans across the country. In L.A. alone, there are 555,000 rent-burdened households. Some 83,000 individuals in Southern California are currently homeless, 3,900 of whom are military veterans primarily from Vietnam and the wars in Iraq and  Afghanistan.

Adjournment and Next MoTAS Meeting: The next meeting will be held by Zoom on Sunday, December 13, 2020, at 9:00 am.

Respectfully submitted,

Hal Bass/Secretary

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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. OCTOBER 18 (SUNDAY): 2PM – REVIEW OF THE 2020 ELECTION BALLOT MEASURES
2. How can we better your TAS community experience? A BRIEF SURVEY
3. November 13: MoTAS Men’s Shabbat Honoring our Veterans
4. November 15 Meeting Program – The Homeless Crisis for Military Veterans in Los AngelesX
5. IN CLOSING

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1.  OCTOBER 18 (SUNDAY): 2PM – REVIEW OF THE 2020 ELECTION BALLOT MEASURES

At 2pm on Sunday October 18, TAS Sisterhood and our Social Action Committee will be hosting our own Fran Lapides, a representative of The League of Women Voters.  Fran will be describing the 2020 General Election propositions and ballot measures we are all going nuts trying to figure out on our own.

Contact TAS for meeting information

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2. How can we better your TAS community experience? A BRIEF SURVEY

A team of marketing students from The David Nazarian College of Business and Economics at California State University, Northridge, are conducting a survey of everyone who receives this Temple Ahavat Shalom newsletter. We encourage you to take this survey and share your experience with TAS! The survey will help the CSUN Marketing Class with recommending suggestions to TAS regarding membership acquisition and retention strategies for the purpose of growing and maintaining our wonderful community. TAS member, Ben Tenn, is our liaison with this CSUN effort.  You are welcome to contact him if you have need of more information.

Click here to take the survey.

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3. November 13: MoTAS Men’s Shabbat Honoring our Veterans

Rabbi Becky and MoTAS (Roger Lowe, Hal Bass and Bob Levine) are planning a shabbat service to honor our temple veterans. The evening service will recognize all temple veterans who have served our country.  The Temple Weekly publication will request the names of current TAS members or immediate family who are veterans (active duty, National Guard, Reserves). We will also ask for the veteran’s highest rank, branch of service, years served, and whether they plan to attend services Nov 13.  MOTAS looks forward to honoring our veterans. (Return to Top)

4. November 15 Meeting Program – The Homeless Crisis for Military Veterans in Los Angeles

Janet Rice (of TAS), Western Region Managing Director for The Kraddock Group and member of the TAS Board of Trustees, will describe the ongoing homelessness crisis experienced by many military veterans in Los Angeles and current plans to improve the situation.  The plight of many veterans is quite sad in America and locally, as many cannot afford housing, medical care, or find jobs.  Janet is working on a project that will help alleviate this situation for many such veterans in the Los Angeles area.  Zoom information will be provided in a future MoTAS Weekly. (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. OCTOBER MONTHLY MEETING: MISSIONS TO MARS on OCT 11
2. OCTOBER 18 (SUNDAY): 2PM – REVIEW OF THE 2020 ELECTION BALLOT MEASURES
3. IN CLOSING

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

Starting at 9:00 am, 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 in one of the nation’s 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 that 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.

Join Zoom Meeting:
Contact Howard for Meeting Link

Meeting ID: xxx xxxx xxxx (if needed)
Passcode: xxxxxx

Dial by your location if connecting via cell phone:
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose and Los Angeles)
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York).

Perseverance Rover with Mars Helicopter

Europa mission visualization

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2. OCTOBER 18 (SUNDAY): 2PM – REVIEW OF THE 2020 ELECTION BALLOT MEASURES

At 2pm on Sunday October 18, TAS Sisterhood and our Social Action Committee will be hosting our own Fran Lapides, a representative of The League of Women Voters.  Fran will be describing the 2020 General Election propositions and ballot measures we are all going nuts trying to figure out on our own.  Information for participation via Zoom will soon be provided in the TAS weekly publication.

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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. 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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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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