l A WONDROUS CELEBRATION AT BETH ISRAEL'S BIG TOP
l EVENTS SPOTLIGHT & HIGHLIGHTS l CARING COMMUNITY: SHIVA CIRCLE






RABBI’S MESSAGE
By Senior Rabbi Jason Nevarez

Dear Friends,
l A WONDROUS CELEBRATION AT BETH ISRAEL'S BIG TOP
l EVENTS SPOTLIGHT & HIGHLIGHTS l CARING COMMUNITY: SHIVA CIRCLE
RABBI’S MESSAGE
By Senior Rabbi Jason Nevarez
Dear Friends,
As I write these words, I had hoped to be preparing to lead another group of our Beth Israel congregants on a journey through Israel. These trips are always powerful—deepening our connection to the land and its people, and allowing us to carry their stories home in our hearts. But this time is different. The current war with Iran has made it unsafe to travel. Our plans did not come to fruition, and our hearts are heavy. The urgency we feel—to stand with Israel, to bear witness, to strengthen our bonds—remains, even from afar.
We are living in a time when so much weighs on the Jewish soul. Nearly every day brings new pain to process, new complexities to hold.
We are still reeling from the events of October 7, a day that continues to reshape Jewish life, not only in Israel but around the world. We hold in our hearts the unbearable truth that, as of this writing, 57 hostages remain in Gaza, their fates unknown, their families suspended between agony and hope. We pray for their return, even as the war continues to rage with no clear end in sight, exacting a terrible cost on both sides.
At the same time, the reverberations of this conflict are felt here in the United States in ways we could not have imagined. Antisemitism is no longer lurking on the margins — it is visible in headlines, on social media, on campuses, and in our streets. It is not subtle, and it is not isolated. It is loud. It is systemic. And it is chilling.
Additionally, as a rabbi, I have long cherished the deep interconnectedness between our Jewish community and other minority and marginalized communities — particularly the LGBTQ community, with whom we have shared decades of solidarity, activism, and pride. That makes it all the more heartbreaking to witness the growing exclusion of visibly Jewish voices from some of these spaces. When Jews — especially queer Jews — are told they are not welcome because they support Israel or because they refuse to disavow their people’s right to self-determination, it cuts to the core. Our sense of belonging fractures. Our hearts ache with the confusion of being asked to choose between parts of ourselves that are indivisible.
And beyond all this looms the ever-present concern of regional instability: Iran’s threats against Israel and the Jewish people and a world that seems more fragile than ever.
So….how do we hold all of this?
The truth is: we don’t have a choice but to hold it. This is what it means to live a Jewish life today — not to turn away,
not to simplify, not to despair. Instead, we practice what the great modern sage Rabbi Nachman of Breslov called “walking through the narrow bridge.” Life, he taught, “kol ha’olam kulo gesher tzar me’od,” the entire world is a very narrow bridge — but the most important thing is not to be afraid. Not to let fear or fatigue close our eyes or harden our hearts.
This teaching is more than a comforting phrase. It is a spiritual directive. It reminds us that narrowness is not a sign that we are lost — it is the terrain of our sacred journey. We walk forward not because it is easy, but because our ancestors taught us that faith means carrying both grief and hope, justice and compassion, strength and vulnerability.
Another teaching that offers me solace in this moment comes from Pirkei Avot (2:16): “Lo alecha ham’lacha ligmor, v’lo atah ben chorin l’hibatel mimena” — It is not upon you to finish the work, but neither are you free to desist from it.
We may not be able to solve every crisis. We may not be able to rescue every hostage, silence every hateful voice, or stop every missile. But we are not free to throw up our hands and walk away. Our responsibility is to engage, to speak up, to build bridges, to tend to our pain — and to find strength in each other.
As we enter the summer months, I urge us all to find moments to reset. To care for your soul. To breathe deeply. To hold your loved ones close. To cry, if you need to. To laugh – really laugh. This is not a time for escapism, but it is a time to tend to our resilience — to restore our capacity for compassion, for listening, for courage. Use the summer not only for vacation, but for recalibration. Ask yourself:
• What do I want my [Jewish] life to stand for in this moment?
• Where can I find and foster connection — with my people, with my neighbors, with community? Perhaps, even, with God?
• How can I show up in both pain and love, without losing my way?
This is a moment that demands emunah — deep faith — not in certainty, but in sacred responsibility. A faith that holds fast to the belief that we are each other’s keepers. That our people have faced narrow bridges before. And that even now, we are capable of walking forward — not alone, but together.
May this summer offer moments of light amid the shadows. And may we continue to be a community that holds each other through it all — with open hearts, unwavering strength, and enduring hope.
L’shalom, Rabbi Jason Nevarez
By John Lefter
Having recently concluded the 2025 Congregation Beth Israel annual meeting, I feel blessed to be in community with you and reflect on what the last 12 months have signified for us. This year has been a year of growth, connection, and sacred service to the Beth Israel community. We are deeply grateful for our clergy, staff, lay leaders, and volunteers who have helped us flourish in so many areas. Some of the highlights of the past year are:
Clergy and Spiritual Life: We celebrated transitions within our clergy team, including Susan Hutchison’s retirement and the seamless onboarding of Eugene Ramey and Rabbi Ackerman Hirsch. Rabbi/Cantor Gimbel became our Cantor, and Rabbi/Cantor Bernstein assumed the role of Rabbi/Cantor Emerita. Services, concerts, and events like Israel Shabbat and others have enriched our community spiritually and culturally.
Education: Our Early Childhood program had strong enrollment, with solid family engagement. Under Emily Ginsberg’s leadership, the Religious School welcomed over 400 students and supported 49 B’nei Mitzvah youth. Adult learning programs included an educational trip to Europe, a service trip to the Dominican Republic, an upcoming intergenerational Israel trip to further engagement and Jewish identity; and many more programs.
Caring Community & Inclusion: Over 250 members have contributed to acts of kindness, including meal prep and student service projects. We continued
accessibility and inclusion reviews, with the goal of continuing to make physical and programmatic improvements.
Membership & Strategic Planning: We grew to over 1,242 member units. Strategic initiatives advanced in areas including music, financial sustainability, lifelong learning, and innovation. Our new website launched, and tech upgrades improved, and we will continue to improve our operational efficiency.
Capital Campaign: With over 56% of our $12M goal raised, we have initiated the permitting process of our mikvah, completed the roof repairs, and are preparing to open the public phase of the campaign to the Congregation in the Fall.
Leadership & Recognition: We are blessed to have served with outgoing Board members Kimberly Carnot, Andrew Garman, Allison Golding, and Marsha Lubick. They are true leaders who have made a real, positive difference in our community, and we are deeply grateful for their support. We are also privileged to have elected Beverly Silldorf, Jay Rodrigues and Peter Gordon as new Board members; we look forward to serving with them. Lastly, we congratulate Mike Chasin who was recognized as Volunteer of the Year for his leadership in community safety and longstanding commitment.
In closing, we are grateful to look back at a transformative year and look ahead with hope and dedication to Beth Israel’s sacred future and the journey together.
RABBI ACKERMAN HIRSCH’S MESSAGE
By Rabbi Ackerman Hirsch
As we approach the slower summer months, I’ve been thinking about the concept of rest, or menuchah. This Hebrew word often describes the rest that God took on the seventh day of creation and the rest that we, too, are meant to take each Shabbat. The Chassidic masters suggest that God didn’t just rest on the seventh day of creation but in fact created the idea of rest so that we might experience a taste of the World to Come on Shabbat and so that we would learn about the power of taking a break and prioritizing rest.
Jewish tradition offers us the much-needed reminders to stop and breathe and rest. We are pulled in many directions—our phones light up, our families need us, work requires our attention, and rest can often fall to the bottom of our to-do lists.
But rest is crucial, not just for our physical and mental health, but also for our spiritual health. Jewish tradition
teaches us that rest allows us to be creative and use our imaginations. Rest gives us space to dream.
I often get caught up in trying to set aside large blocks of time to rest and then end up not resting at all. I wonder what it would look like for each of us to seek smaller moments of rest this summer, perhaps not just during vacations or trips (although those are good, too), but even smaller moments between our many obligations. Moments to give ourselves permission and space to let our minds wander, to dream, to be in nature, or to take time to do things that nourish our souls.
This summer, I invite each of us to think differently about rest. I hope that we can try to find small moments to honor ourselves, both physically and spiritually, and carve out dedicated time in these slower months so that we might get true menuchah this summer.
SCAN HERE TO RSVP & DISCOVER WHAT’S HAPPENING FOR JPRIDE WEEKEND!
COME CELEBRATE LOVE, COURAGE, AND PRIDE WITH US!
Join our San Diego Jewish community as we come together for a celebration of Pride, compassion, and unity. We will create welcoming spaces that uplift LGBTQ+ Jews and our allies, filled with joy and connection.
JPride Weekend is a reflection of who we are, the values we hold dear, and the inclusive future we’re building together.
To help us prepare and ensure a smooth and secure experience for all, please RSVP by scanning the QR code provided or visit cbisd.org/pride
SATURDAY JUNE 7, 2025
On Saturday, June 7, 2025, our community came together under The Beth Israel Big Top for an evening brimming with joy, connection, laughter, and intrigue. Guests enjoyed signature cocktails, elevated carnival-inspired fare, and an astounding performance by mentalist, Kevin Viner. A stilt walker and juggler added to the festivities!
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our sponsors and guests, more than $300,000 was raised to support the vital programs and services that make Beth Israel flourish. We are so grateful to everyone who joined us and helped make the evening such a spectacular success. Hats off to the spirit of Beth Israel and to many more magical moments together!
Mike Chasin has been a Beth Israel member since 2000, marking over two decades of commitment to the community. He serves as a Vice President on the Board of Directors, where he contributes to strategic decisions and helps guide the organization’s direction. Mike also volunteers as Chair of the Security Committee, leading a dedicated team that works closely with the Beth Israel staff to continually refine and enhance the temple’s security measures while ensuring the environment remains warm and welcoming for all who enter.
Recognizing the complexity of evolving security needs, Mike actively participates in meetings across the San Diego Jewish community. These gatherings offer valuable opportunities for collaboration and information sharing with organizations such as the Jewish Federation, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), and other synagogues, helping shape a unified approach to safety.
Mike’s commitment also includes direct education. He has co-taught several “Run-Hide-Fight” seminars on campus and is scheduled to assist with the upcoming “Stop-the-Bleed” training focused on emergency medical aid.
Outside of his security work, one of Mike’s favorite volunteer roles is helping the Men’s Club with its annual latke baking event, a beloved tradition for the Lee and Frank Goldberg Family Religious School.
Mazal Tov to Beth Israel member Silvana Christy, who was honored as a Woman of Valor this year. This meaningful tribute recognizes her strength, compassion, and the profound impact she has made through her leadership and dedicated service to the San Diego community.
David Olsen-Vazquez (he/him/his) and his husband, Manny (he/him/his), have been members of Beth Israel since 2022. They’ve quickly made it their second home, celebrating Shabbat and attending Torah study. David recently served on the Rabbinic Search Committee and, with many others, started our Beth Israel’s Keshet (a social group for LGBTQIA+ and allies).
David’s professional journey spans over 26 years. He started teaching elementary and middle school students in California for the first two decades. However, his passion for special education led him to shift his focus four years ago. David advocates for the inclusion and support of Jewish youth in public schools. He was recognized as teacher of the year for the Cajon Valley Union School District and received the same honor for his middle school with the San Diego Unified School District this year. David has collaborated with The Butterfly Project to introduce their Holocaust education program to students at his middle school and has contributed to the creation of a large mural installation that depicts butterflies representing the 1.5 million children who perished.
In the past year, David joined ADL’s Glass Institute and joined the mission of combating extremism against all marginalized groups. David and his husband Manny attend ADL’s Never is Now conference in New York and JPAC in Sacramento.
David’s commitment to fostering inclusive learning environments extends beyond the classroom. He actively participates on the board of GLSEN San Diego, the leading national organization dedicated to ensuring safe schools for all students. His involvement with GLSEN reflects his dedication to advocacy and community service.
David, his husband Manny, their dogs Hope and Timmy, and their cat Flippy enjoy spending time outdoors, dining with friends, and traveling.
Laughter, music, and the scent of fresh hamantaschen filled our campus as families came together to celebrate Purim in true carnival style! From bounce houses to costumes, joy was everywhere you looked.
Several Beth Israel members joined over 600 Jewish leaders from across California at the 2025 JPAC Capitol Summit in Sacramento. They met with lawmakers to help amplify the voice of the Jewish community and advance JPAC’s legislative priorities, including combating antisemitism, enhancing community security, supporting vulnerable populations, and promoting social justice.
This year’s Passover seder reminded us to open our hearts in challenging times and remember the story of our freedom. It was a night full of hope, remembrance, inspiration, and community.
This spring, members of our Beth Israel community joined Rabbi Jason and Nicole Nevarez on the Jewish Heritage River Cruise, a sacred journey of learning, memory, and connection with Jewish life past and present, traveling from Budapest to Prague. Along the way, they visited significant Jewish sites, including the Jewish quarters of Budapest and Vienna, the oldest Jewish community in Regensburg, and the Terezin concentration camp. Shabbat was celebrated together in community, and Havdalah offered a moving close to the week under the stars.
We welcomed the summer season with our outdoor Shabbat Under the Stars Erev Shabbat Services in the Price Family Courtyard. It was a beautiful evening filled with music, community, and connection. After services, everyone gathered on the lower field to enjoy tasty treats and fun activities for the kids.
Morgan, Charlie, and Ari Auster
Morgan and Charlie have birthdays just one day apart, a fun coincidence in their growing family. They were inspired to join Beth Israel while searching for daycare for their daughter Ari and felt it was the perfect time to reconnect with the Jewish community. We’re so happy to welcome them!
Rebecca Bajkowski and Charlie Hammond
Rebecca and Charlie recently moved to San Diego from Detroit and now live in Clairemont. They’re excited to welcome a new addition to their family this August. Both Rebecca and Charlie love playing and watching sports and enjoy spending time outdoors in San Diego’s beautiful weather. They already feel warmly connected to Beth Israel. Rabbi Bernstein officiated their wedding a few years ago and made them feel truly part of the community from the start. Rebecca and Charlie look forward to getting more involved in the Jewish community and are happy to begin that journey with Beth Israel.
Shira, Patrick, Isaac, and Aviva Engelbert
Shira, Patrick, Isaac, and Aviva are a Navy family living in the UTC area. They moved here just last summer for their second tour in San Diego. This time, they’re spending less time at breweries and more time at playgrounds!
They love the Young Family events, so much so that their son now thinks synagogue means pizza (and he's a fan). After moving to the area, they were drawn to Beth Israel for its warm community and are looking forward to getting involved in many different ways.
Lisa and Dr. Steve Ruderman
Steve is a retired physician, and Lisa is a retired Marriage and Family Therapist. They enjoy traveling, pickleball, yoga, hiking, biking, and playing cards. Lisa has been taking art lessons, and Steve is brushing up on his guitar skills. They’ve been married for 46 years. They have two grown children: Michael, a physician in Northern California, and Danielle, a photographer in Los Angeles. They care deeply about social justice and support efforts that promote equality, fairness, and compassion. Steve and Lisa feel very much at home at Beth Israel and truly appreciate the clergy. They’ve known Rabbi Cantor Jeremy Gimbel since he and their son Michael were children.
Jami Shapiro and Bryan Frieman
Bryan and Jami live in Carlsbad, where they’ve built a vibrant blended family. Originally from the East Coast, they enjoy good food, hiking, and time with their dog, Benji. Bryan works at Vertex, and Jami runs Silver Linings Transitions, a move management and home organizing company. She is a Certified Senior Advisor and hosts the podcast Grandma Has ADHD. Bryan’s daughter, Bella (13) attends San Diego Jewish Academy and spends her free time playing with Benji. Jami’s daughter Adyson (17) is passionate about theater and leads the Jewish Student Union at San Dieguito Academy. Her older children, Will (24) and Ali (21), no longer live at home but remain close. Blending their family has inspired Bryan and Jami to make a fresh start and join Beth Israel, where many of Bella’s classmates attend.
Liz Wolfson
Liz lives in the UTC area and is originally from New Orleans. She has been part of the San Diego community for 20 years. When she first moved here, Liz belonged to Beth Israel before joining another synagogue, and she’s glad to be back. Liz retired in 2021 after 16 years working in the San Diego Jewish community, including serving as CFO of the Jewish Federation of San Diego County from 2005 to 2009 and as Controller at Seacrest Village Retirement Communities from 2009 to 2021. Since 2023, she has enjoyed volunteering at the San Diego Zoo. Liz appreciates the openness of the Beth Israel community, the music, and the feeling of true community. She values the friendships with longtime members, the enjoyable services, and the thought-provoking classes.
Other new or returning members
Sean Alexander
Spence Burkholz and Nancy Juda
Ariel Druck and Rayna Karoll Druck
Dori and Eric Einhorn
Sheila Goldfarb
Andrew and Evangeline Goodman
Gabriela and Benjamin Johnson
Susan and Samuel Keith
Hayley and Brad Kritzer
Rachel Meisner
Shira Paul and Patrick Engelbert
Raquel and Robert Rissman
Michelle Rubin and David Monks
Krissy Salter
Emily and David Samuel
Linda Santangelo and Marci Siegel
Benjamin Shanken and Veronica Wang
Carol and Roy Slavin
Marlene Tenen
Michael Woods
Yue Zhao and Leeran Barzilai
Alana and Jared Ziman
Community Building and Pride
As we reflect on a year filled with joyful learning, we look ahead with excitement to what the coming year will bring at the Lee and Frank z”l Goldberg Family Religious School. During the 2024–2025 school year, we celebrated significant milestones: 29 first-grade students were honored at Consecration and 10 tenth-grade students affirmed their Jewish identities through Confirmation. Our 13 graduates traveled to explore Jewish New York with Rabbi Nevarez—many of them awaiting college decisions—and we are incredibly proud of all they’ve accomplished.
Justice League, our teen-led community service group for middle schoolers, continued to grow and successfully hosted multiple well-attended events each month. Our school community is thriving—not only in enrollment, but also in the number of alumni who return to teach and mentor the next generation.
Looking ahead, we are excited to welcome a new ShinShin (Israeli emissary), who will share personal insights about life in Israel as a recent high school graduate. Highlights for the year to come include our 4th–7th grade retreat in the mountains, expanded social action opportunities for all age groups, joyful explorations of Jewish life and community, and deeper engagement with Torah stories. Our 11th and 12th graders are preparing for the Platt Youth to Israel trip, while our 10th grade Confirmation class is eager to participate in the Religious Action Center’s L’Taken weekend in Washington, D.C., where they’ll join Reform Jewish teens from across the country in advocacy and learning.
TUESDAYS
The Bill & Sid Rubin Early Childhood Center invites all families to pack a picnic, grab a blanket, and join us for summer fun on the lower playfield! Enjoy live, family-friendly entertainment, sweet treats, and plenty of outdoor joy.
UPCOMING DATES:
July 15 Foam Party!
August 5 Ruth & Emilia
5:00–6:30 pm (Entertainment begins ~5:15)
No RSVP needed—just come and play!
May 10, 10am
Isaac Lipton is the son of Lisa and Bobby Lipton and grandson of Pam and Howard Lipton (z”l), Bob Fixman and Linda Rotskoff (z”l). Isaac attends Pacific Trails Middle School. For his Mitzvah project, Isaac has been volunteering several days a week with A New Life Charitable Foundation. He is helping a rescued dog named Paloma who was rescued in Mexico and heavily pregnant. He has been feeding her 9 newborn puppies as momma is too sick to feed them right now. Isaac also volunteers on Sundays feeding the homeless with Burrito Boys. Isaac loves playing flag football, pickleball and lacrosse, as well as watching sports with family and riding his bike around with his friends. Isaac also enjoys going to Hawaii to visit his grandpa and loves family vacations.
MILA BLAISE
June 14, 10am
RIVA CHURCHWELL
June 14, 10am
Mila is the daughter of Simone and Greg Blaise and the granddaughter of Carla and Robin Fischel, and Marie Michel. She is an Honor Roll student at Deportola Middle School. For her Mitzvah project, Mila has been volunteering at Father Joe's Villages, serving lunch on Sundays. She also has been collecting clothes for Father Joe's and will raise money as well. Mila loves swimming and water polo, enjoys baking, playing board games with family, riding bikes with her friends and hanging out with her dog, Eddy. She also loves to travel with her family and visit new places.
Riva is the daughter of Joseph Churchwell and Marissa Jarzyna Churchwell. Riva has shown great determination academically as well as sports. Riva has maintained A's in all of her classes and is a student leader at her school through Associated Student Body (student government). She also plays club soccer and was on her middle school soccer team for the past two seasons. She also has been volunteering her time at local community events. Riva has attended Beth Israel from the age of 5 and is excited to continue her journey. For her Mitzvah project, Riva collected supplies for local animal shelters. With the help of family, friends and the community, Riva has collected many items such as: food, blankets, towels, toys, and litter to donate.
BAER
WILLIAM BLEIER
August 2, 4pm
Baer is the beloved son of Andrew and Jessica Bleier and the cherished grandson of Arthur and Anne Bleier, and Gregory and Kathleen Monger. An Honor Roll student at Pacific Beach Middle School, Baer is often found excelling on the baseball field. He serves as captain of his 12U travel baseball team, primarily playing as catcher. In addition to baseball, Baer enjoys flag football, biking, swimming, and spending quality time with his friends and extensive family. In honor of his Bar Mitzvah, Baer dedicated his Mitzvah project to coaching and teaching younger children the fundamentals of baseball, combining his passion for the sport with his commitment to mentorship and community service.
August 9, 10am
Beau (Boaz Seraph) is the son of Drs Brett & Dawn Meyer, brother of Drew, and the grandson of Eric & Nena Matherne, Karen Meyer, and Dr John & Barbara Meyer. Beau attends Mesa Verde Middle School in Rancho Penasquitos. He is kind, curious, and creative. He’s a talented Percussionist who brings rhythm to everything he does, whether he’s drumming, cooking up something delicious, or getting lost in a good book. He’s also the best buddy to his dog, Sadie. Beau's Mitzvah projects included volunteering at Sharia's Closet, Coastal Roots Farm, the San Diego Humane Society, and his favorite the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank. Mazel tov, Beau!
Riva Churchwell
June 14, 2025 10am Mila Blaise
June 14, 2025 10am Benjamin Lewis
June 21, 2025 4pm
Schifrin
August 2, 2025 10am Baer Bleier
Meyer
August 2, 2025 4pm
August 9, 2025 10am Mia & Jordan Sklandsky
August 16, 2025 10am
August 23, 2025 5pm B’NEI MITZVAH June-August 2025
Your generosity makes membership open to all, including those who can’t afford full dues.
As of June 1, 2025
You make Beth Israel membership possible for others.
NER TAMID LIFE MEMBERS
Sandra & Earl Altshuler
Leonard Bloom
Alberta Feurzeig
Barry Neichin
Evelyn & Ernest Rady
Cassidy Robins
Iris Strauss
Carol Swimmer
Rachel Swimmer-Flores & Armando Flores
NER TAMID ANGELS
Allison and Robert Price
NER TAMID GUARDIANS
Karen Foster Silberman and Jeff Silberman
NER TAMID LEADERS
Michelle and Kevin Berkowitz
Lee Goldberg
Debby and Hal Jacobs
Lawrence Krause
Jackie and Charlie Mann
Brett Schreiber and Shayna DavisSchreiber
Linda and Jeff Shohet
Anne and Ron Simon
NER TAMID BUILDERS
Melissa Garfield Bartell and Michael Bartell
Joan and Jeremy Berg
Bev and Len Bernstein
Lisa Braun-Glazer and Jeff Glazer
Deborah and Dan Carnick
Kim Carnot and Traci Carpenter
Phyllis and Dan Epstein
Brett and Carly Feuerstein
Kathryn and Andrew Garman
Edward Goldberg
Barbara Goldman and Howard Katz
Marcia Hazan and Mark Cammell
Terry Klitzner
Sandra Levinson
Meg and Jess Mandel
Haydee Ojeda-Fournier and Andy Lowy
Linda and Larry Okmin
Jeanette and David Osias
Ellen Potter and Ron Evans
Zach and Ali Shuman
Elizabeth and Mitch Siegler
Donald Slate
Charlene Steinhauer
Martin Stern
Stacey and Josh Wallach
Jamie and Kevin Wechter
Bebe and Marvin Zigman
Helene and Allan Ziman
NER TAMID MITZVAH
Nenette Adelson-Rodriguez and Walter
Rodriguez
Roger Acheatel and Ingrid Scharpf
Betty Amber
Ronit and Tim Austgen
Rusti Bartell-Weiss
Nan and Alan Barth
Judith and Larry Belinsky
Ellen Benkle
Julie and Edgar Berner
Terri Bignell
Marc and Mary Louise Birch
Joyce and Bob Blumberg
Irene Borevitz
Bob and Jaclyn Bralower
Carol Butler and Larry Gratt
Seekey Cacciatore and Cory Briggs
Silvana and Richard Christy
Amy Corton and Carlton Eibl
Julie and Mitch Dubick
Lois and Marty Ehrlich
Toby Eisenberg
Sandy and Jan Feldman
Suzi and Bernie Feldman
Steve Feller
Diane and Elliot Feuerstein
Esther Fischer
Susanna and Michael Flaster
Lisa Foster and Alan Bersin
Carol Fox
Barbara Fryer and Bob Dighello
Elaine Galinson and Herb Solomon
Heidi Gantwerk and Andy Mayer
Marcia and Matt Gettinger
Bobbie and Jon Gilbert
Allison and Matt Golding
Sharon and Eric Goodman
Peter and Ellen Gordon
Ellen and Herb Hafter
Diana Hahn
Howard and Julie Haimsohn
Merrill and Bob Haimsohn
Sophie and Henry Haimsohn
Joan and Jeff Harris
Betsy and Richard Haubrich
Carolyn and Gary Jacobs
Emily and Chris Jennewein
Marge Katleman and Dick Perlman
Heather and Brandon Keith
Karen and Warren Kessler
Leonard Kornreich
Ellen Kroll
Robin and Joth Layton
Steve and Heidi Levin
Stefanie Levine and Michael Breslauer
Linda Levy and Ed Mcgrath
Judy and Marshall Lewis
Hollis and Al Litrownik
Meryl Maneker and Peter Herman
Julianne and Greg Markow
Mary Marshall
Lynn and Michael Maskin
Alyssa and Gabriel Mass
Maggie and Paul Meyer
Estelle Milch
Ami and Bill Minteer
Evelyn Mishuck
Susan and Jim Morris
Anne Nagorner
Christine Nievergelt and David Chait
Andrea Oster
Barbara Parker and Geoff Wahl
Janet and John Perlman
Hasty and Mark Pidgeon
Linda Platt
Laurie Price
Jackie Reiss-Kravitz and Alan Kravitz
Vivian Reznik and Andrew Ries
Arlene Rosen
Sheryl and William Rowling
Barbara and Norm Rozansky
Bruce and Sheri Sachs
Lynn Sampson
Jeffrey Sandler
Leslie Satz
Mary Ann and George Scher
Lori Shearer and Brian Haubenstock
Harriet and Alan Shumacher
Darcy and Paul Siegel
Marcie Sinclair and Andy Ratner
Robyn and Matt Spiegel
Sharon Spivak and David Hoffman
Karen and Richard Stern
Staci Tiras-Jones and Dan Jones
Karin and Tony Toranto
Ronni and Eric Udoff
Susan and Richard Ulevitch
Tammy and Louie Vener
Audrey Viterbi and Dan Smargon
Bennett Weinbaum
Rachel and Adam Welland
Caryl Witte
Your commitment is an investment in Beth Israel's future.
As of June 1, 2025
Anonymous (4)
Nancy and Dean Abelon
Janet and Larry Acheatel
Ingrid H. Scharpf, MD and Roger J. Acheatel, MD
Loretta Adams
Grayton Allen*
Betty Amber
Murray* and Anne-Marie Anker
Endowment
David Bark
Renee Barnow
Stanley Beck*
Leslie Belden
Rabbis Michael and Aliza Berk
Jack Berkman
Michelle and Kevin Berkowitz
Julie and Edgar Berner
Robert Berton
Beyer Family
Barbara Bloom*
Esther* and Jack* Bloom
Joyce and Robert Blumberg
Jenny and Andrew Bratt
Lillie* and Robert* Breitbard
Merle and Mitchell Brodie
Sophie* and Arthur* Brody
Hattie Brooks*
Betty* Byrnes and Dr. Donald* Byrnes
Kim Carnot and Traci Carpenter, Emma and Harley Carpenter
Marilyn Cohen*
Amy Corton and Carlton Eibl
Susan and Damon Couch
Clive David*
Deborah DeBow and Herb Weissman
Estelle* and Lou* Dunst
Stacey and Jeff Eaton
David Engel*
Phyllis and Dan Epstein
Diane and Elliot Feuerstein
April and Mathew Fink
Nadine* and Philip* Finkel
Esther Fischer
Sigrid* and Jack* Fischer
Judith and Tom Fisher
Susanna and Michael Flaster
Pauline Foster*
Karen Foster Silberman and Jeffrey
Silberman
Carol and Ron* Fox
Davis B. Fox
Marcia* and Leonard Fram
Elaine Galinson and Herbert Solomon
Heidi Gantwerk and Andy Mayer
Bobbie and Jon Gilbert
Francine and Phillip Ginsburg
Lee and Frank* Goldberg Family
Linda and Jerry Goldberg
The Estate of Jean and Herman Gordon*
Charlotte Haas Trust*
Ellen and Herbert Hafter Jr.
Diana and Norman* Hahn
Barbara* and Alan* Haubenstock
Barbara and Gordon* Haworth
Jimmy H. Heimann*
Tracy and Gary Hirschfeld
Debbie Horwitz and Paul Nierman
Emily and Chris Jennewein
Ellen and Adam Kahn
Lisa and Douglas Kalal
Margaret and Jerald* Katleman
The Klitzner Family
Zena* and Dr. Donn* Kobernick
Fern* and Allan Kohn
Jill and Martin Koller
Sallye* and Lawrence Krause
Ava and Michael Kurnow
M. Larry Lawrence*
Robin and Joth Layton
Frances B. Leslie*
Lainie Lesser-Mark*
Terri Levenson
Liz Levine and Andrew Resnick
Sandra and Arthur* Levinson
Leona and Dr. Jerome* Levy
Theodora Lewis*
Marsha and Herbert Lubick
Gail and Jim* Malkus
Meg and Jess Mandel
Meryl Maneker and Peter Herman
Jackie and Charlie Mann
Julianne and Greg Markow
Mary Marshall and Steve Gould*
Lynn and Michael Maskin
Jessica and Michael Middleton
Lesley Mills
Elaine Moser*
Ann Levenstein Mound
Nancy and Alan Nevin
Ronald J. Newell
Rebecca* and Dr. Lawrence* Newman
Anna Newton and Steven Guthauser
Haydee Ojeda-Fournier and Andy Lowy
Sima and Joseph* Oppenheimer
Renee* and Joseph* O'Rourke
Linda and Shearn* Platt
Cynthia* and Lorne Polger
Seymour Rabin*
Vivian Rich
Rosenberg Family Trust*
Barbara and Dr. Norman Rozansky
Rae and Ed* Samiljan
Marjorie and Sanford Schane
Mary Ann and Dr. George Scher
Helene "Eemah" and David Schlafman
Brenda and Ben Schneider
Laura Schumacher
Judi and Robert Schwartz
May Sebel
Sydney and Rick* Serwin
The Shapiro Family
Elizabeth and Mitchell Siegler
Beverly and Howard Silldorf
Anne and Ronald Simon
Debra and Robert Skomer
Gayle* and Donald Slate
Penny and Sidney* Spector
Susan and Rabbi Jonathan* Stein
Mickey Stern*
Celia Tingley
Susan and Richard Ulevitch
Tammy and Louie Vener
Diane and Buddy Voit
Jamie and Kevin Wechter
Cathy and John* Weil
Arlene* and Fred* Weitzen, Jr.
Cynthia* and Sydney* Wexler
Elaine Wilson
Stacey Wolf*
Geraldine* and Lt. Col. Hubert* Wolff
Marcia and Don Wolochow
*of blessed memory
The loss of a family member or dear friend is a very difficult time in the lives of our congregants. Caring Community continues to provide support during those challenging times. We are looking for volunteers to support The Shiva Circle (“TSC”), and assist families during the first night of Shiva. The task of TSC would be to set up the food upon arrival, store it after the service, and clean up so those in mourning can honor their loved ones with less stress.
Due to arrangements always being last minute, we hope to have a significant number of volunteers throughout the various neighborhoods so we can limit the distance and time needed by each person.
Our Shared Sacred Partnership: Beth Israel’s Self-Directed Membership Program
If you are interested in becoming part of The Shiva Circle and doing this wonderful mitzvah of bringing comfort to those experiencing loss, contact Katey Lindley, Director of Caring Community, (klindley@cbisd.org) to volunteer or for more details.
Belonging. Community. Partnership.
Make a meaningful membership commitment to your Beth Israel family.
VIBRANT. EMPOWERING. UPLIFTING.
Passing on traditions and teachings to future generations. Dedicated to enhancing the lives of those it touches.
CARING. ACTIVE. INVOLVED.
Make a meaningful commitment to your synagogue family.
Taking steps to aid those in need from every walk of life. Nurturing personal growth. As Moses asked each individual to contribute toward building the tabernacle according to their own ability, we ask YOU to help sustain and support Beth Israel in a manner that is meaningful to YOU.
We offer a variety of access options for our programs, including streaming and Zoom, for those unable to attend in person. For the Worship Schedule and livestream, and Diverse Access options, please visit cbisd.org/religious-life
Friday, July 4
5:30 pm Erev Shabbat Services, Foster Family Chapel (YouTube)
Please note: Erev Shabbat Services on July 4 will begin earlier at 5:30 pm in the Foster Family Chapel.
Saturday, July 5
Torah Portion: Chukat: Numbers 19:1–22:1
Haftarah: Judges 11:1–33
9:00 am Torah Study; Leader: Rabbi Marty Lawson, Feuerstein Family Activity Center (diverse access)
10:30 am Shabbat Lay Led Service, Foster Family Chapel (YouTube)
Friday, July 11
6:15 pm Erev Shabbat Outdoor Services, Price Family Courtyard (YouTube)
Saturday, July 12
Torah Portion: Balak: Numbers 22:225:9
Haftarah: Micah 5:6–6:8
9:00 am Torah Study, Feuerstein Family Activity Center (diverse access)
10:30 am Shabbat Lay Led Service, Foster Family Chapel (YouTube)
Friday, July 18
6:15 pm Pride Shabbat Erev Shabbat Services, Glickman-Galinson Sanctuary (YouTube)
Saturday, July 19
Torah Portion: Pinchas: Numbers
25:10–30:1
Haftarah: Jeremiah 1:1–2:3
9:00 am Torah Study; Leader: Rabbi Philip Graubart, Feuerstein Family Activity Center (diverse access)
10:30 am Shabbat Lay Led Service, Foster Family Chapel (YouTube)
Friday, July 25
6:15 pm Erev Shabbat Outdoor Services, Price Family Courtyard (YouTube)
Saturday, July 26
Torah Portion: Matot-Mas'ei: Numbers 30:2–26:13
Haftarah: Jeremiah 2:4–28; 3–4
9:00 am Torah Study; Leader: Rabbi Michael Berk, Feuerstein Family Activity Center (diverse access)
10:30 am Shabbat Lay Led Service, Foster Family Chapel (YouTube)
Friday, August 1
6:15 pm Erev Shabbat Outdoor Services, Price Family Courtyard (YouTube)
Saturday, August 2
Torah Portion: D’varim: Deuteronomy
1:1–3:22
Haftarah: Samuel 11:14–12:22
9:00 am Torah Study; Leader: Rabbi Marty Lawson, Feuerstein Family Activity Center (diverse access)
10:00 am The congregation celebrates a B’nei Mitzvah Service, Glickman-Galinson Sanctuary (YouTube)
10:30 am Shabbat Lay Led Services, Foster Family Chapel (YouTube)
4:00 pm The congregation celebrates a B’nei Mitzvah Service, Glickman-Galinson Sanctuary (YouTube)
Friday, August 8
6:15 pm Erev Shabbat Outdoor Services, Price Family Courtyard (YouTube)
Saturday, August 9
Torah Portion: Va-et'chanan: Deuteronomy 3:23–7:11
Haftarah: Isaiah 40:1–26
9:00 am Torah Study; Leader: Rabbi Michael Berk, Feuerstein Family Activity Center (diverse access)
10:00 am The congregation celebrates a B’nei Mitzvah Service, Glickman-Galinson Sanctuary (YouTube)
10:30 am Shabbat Lay Led Service, Foster Family Chapel (YouTube)
Friday, August 15
6:15 pm Erev Shabbat Outdoor Services, Price Family Courtyard (YouTube)
Saturday, August 16
Torah Portion: Eikev: Deuteronomy 7:12–11:25
Haftarah: Isaiah 49:14–51:3
9:00 am Torah Study; Leader: Rabbi Philip Graubart, Feuerstein Family Activity Center (diverse access)
10:00 am The congregation celebrates a B’nei Mitzvah Service, Glickman-Galinson Sanctuary (YouTube)
10:30 am Shabbat Lay Led Service, Foster Family Chapel (YouTube)
Friday, August 22
6:15 pm Erev Shabbat Outdoor Services, Price Family Courtyard (YouTube)
Saturday, August 23
Torah Portion: R’eih: Deuteronomy 11:26–16:17
Haftarah: Isaiah 54: 11–55:5
9:00 am Torah Study; Leader: Rabbi Jason Nevarez Feuerstein Family Activity Center (diverse access)
10:30 am Shabbat Lay Led Service, Foster Family Chapel (YouTube)
4:00 pm The congregation celebrates a B’nei Mitzvah Service, Glickman-Galinson Sanctuary (YouTube)
Friday, August 29
6:15 pm Erev Shabbat Outdoor Services, Price Family Courtyard (YouTube)
Saturday, August 30
Torah Portion: Shof’tim: Deuteronomy 16:18–21:9
Haftarah: Isaiah 51:12–52:12
9:00 am Torah Study; Leader: Rabbi Cantor Jeremy Gimbel Feuerstein Family Activity Center (diverse access)
10:30 am Shabbat Lay Led Service, Foster Family Chapel (YouTube)
CONGREGATIONAL LEARNING AND PROGRAMMING
ADULT EDUCATION
Visit us at cbisd.org/lifelonglearning/adult-education
Morning Mindfulness with Julie Potiker
Wednesdays: 10:00 am – 11:00 am
CARING COMMUNITY
Visit us at cbisd.org/get-involved/ caring-community
SOCIAL ACTION NETWORK
Visit us at cbisd.org/get-involved/ social-action-network
Providing Dinner to the Residents of Rachel’s Women’s Center & Night Shelter
Sunday: August 10 @ 4:15 pm
MEN'S CLUB
Visit us at cbisd.org/get-involved/ mensclub
Men’s Club Discussion Group
Mondays: July 14, 28 @ 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Men’s Club at Father Joe’s Sundays: June 29, August 31 @ 8:30 am – 11:30 am
The Czech Torah Scroll Story: How Our Czech Torah Was Saved and Given New Life
Speaker's Forum & Dinner | Sponsored by the Men's Club
Wednesday: July 16 @ 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
MEMBERSHIP & ENGAGEMENT
Visit us at cbisd.org/get-involved/ member-meet-ups
Member Meet Ups: Tuesday Afternoon Mahjong Tuesdays: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Member Meet Ups: The Ultimate Podcast Club
Monday: July 21 @ 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Member Meet Ups: JewJam Saturdays: July 26, August 30 @ 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm
Senior Social Hours Back by Popular Demand!
Fridays, August 1 (New date) & October 24 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
SPECIAL EVENTS
Visit us at cbisd.org/programs/ category/special/
TRIBE
Visit us at cbisd.org/get-involved/ tribe
Pride Shabbat Erev Shabbat Services
Followed by an Oneg Friday, July 18 @ 6:15 pm
HUNGER PROJECT
Visit us at cbisd.org/get-involved/ hunger-project
2nd through 5th Sunday of every month, @ 8:30–11:30 am
LEE AND FRANK GOLDBERG FAMILY RELIGIOUS SCHOOL
Visit us at https://cbisd.org/lifelonglearning/religious-school
FAMILY ACTIVITIES- EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION BILL & SID RUBIN PRESCHOOL
Visit us at cbisd.org/lifelonglearning/early-childhood-center
Tuesdays in the Park! Foam Party
Tuesday: July 15 @ 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Tuesdays in the Park! Ruth & Emilia Tuesday: August 5 @ 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
For all other events, visit www.cbisd.org
RABBI NEVAREZ'S FUND
Contribution by:
Judith Wilensky
In appreciation of:
Maggie and Ben’s B’nei Mitzvah by Shawn and Adam Pappelbaum
His support during Karen
Welland’s passing and funeral by Adam and Rachel Welland
Rabbi Nevarez by Liz Sharp
Rabbi Nevarez visiting him when he was ill and for his genuine kindness by Richard Weinroth
The beautiful funeral service for their father Ed Janon, and the comfort and support they received by Wendy and Amy Janon, Mindy Flood, Jill Ramirez, and Beth Keene
The bris for Ethan Mueller by Anna and Max Mueller
In honor of:
Leila and Wyatt Massey’s Hebrew naming by Valerie and Steven Massey
The bris for Ethan Mueller by Stuart Rubenstein
The memorial service for Arnold S. Fine by Amy and Mark Johnson
In memory of:
Debra Berton by Robert Berton
Mary Berton by Robert Berton
Warren Dean by Robert Berton
Dorothea Dundee by Shirley and Willie Burger
Charles Kellogg by Liz Sharp
Ruth Kellogg by Liz Sharp
Bonnie Lipton by Michael and Janice Sedloff
Neal Sachs by Bruce and Sheri Sachs
Edward Satz by Leslie Satz
Lylian Satz by Leslie Satz
Abram Sharp by Liz Sharp
Becky Sharp by Liz Sharp
Jacob Sharp by Liz Sharp
Lifsha Sharp by Liz Sharp
Isadore Sheinbein by Fred and Judy Sheinbein
Myron Shelley by Diane and Buddy Voit
Benjamin Smolian by Richard Weinroth
Sam Spevack by Janice and Michael Sedloff
Edna Spieler by Joan and Jeff Harris
RABBI BERNSTEIN CANTOR
EMERITA'S FUND
In appreciation of:
Rabbi Cantor Bernstein officiating their grandson’s brit milah by Marcia and Matthew Gettinger
Rabbi Cantor Bernstein for her support, kindness, and thoughtful service at the death of her sister
Joyce Weinstein by Carol Fox
Studying with Rabbi Cantor
Bernstein for her conversion by Yu Cai and Jeff Weinstein
Services for the Brill plaque installation at Beth Israel by the Brill children
Kaia Lily Ritter’s baby naming ceremony by Sharon and Stephen Ritter
The beautiful funeral service for their father Ed Janon, and the comfort and support they received by Wendy and Amy Janon, Mindy Flood, Jill Ramirez, and Beth Keene
In honor of:
Rabbi Cantor Bernstein for her loving kindness by Jamie and Kevin Wechter
Charlotte Marie Martin’s baby naming ceremony by Gordon Glenn
The bris for Asher Shanken by Stuart Rubenstein
Susan Hutchison’s retirement by Robin and Joth Layton, Julie Tedde
Talia Esther Savarese’s baby naming ceremony by David Savarese
In memory of:
Helen Bayle by Joan Kutner
Vernon Bayle by Joan Kutner
Jules Bloom by Janet Cook
Colin Campbell by Ian Campbell
Edward Carnot by Pamela Carnot
Sol Cohen by Ross Cohen and Valerie Leman
Danielle Coombs by Helena Berger-Heppner
Louis Deutsch by Nancy and Steven Deutsch
Sharon Lebolt Distaso by Nancy and Steven Deutsch
Inge Dor by Susan and James Morris
Cathy L. Engel by Thomas Engel
Joseph Feinstein by Jean Feinstein
Sigrid Fischer by Sylvia and David Geffen, the Morris family
Joseph Gutstadt by Jan and Irving Kass
James Harris by Nancy Harris
Edward Janon by Bev and Len Bernstein
Ruth Landecker by David and Sylvia Geffen
Lenore Lebolt by Nancy, Steven, Eliana, and Michelle Deutsch
Hazel Levenson by Terri Levenson
Maurice Levenson by Terri Levenson
Charles Levine by Helena BergerHeppner
Phyllis Levinson by Eileen Wingard
Betty Markin by Eileen Wingard
Vitaliy Mazurenko by Irina Shamilova
We acknowledge these contributions, processed through May 15, with appreciation. To make a contribution email dpritchard@cbisd.org, or call Deneille Pritchard at 858 900-2500
Benjamin Pearl by David and Sylvia Geffen
Lauren Resnik by Elizabeth and Mitch Siegler, Jamie and Kevin Wechter
Robert Resnik by Silvana and Richard Christy
Isadore Robin by Howard and Carole Robin
Hilda Roller by Linda and Larry Okmin and family
Louise Schiff by Eileen Wingard
Rose Schiff by Eileen Wingard
Belle Sedloff by Michael and Janice Sedloff
Myron Shelley by Diane and Buddy Voit
Marvin Spira by Ian Campbell
Pat Spira by Ian Campbell
Rabbi Jonathan Stein by Susan Levin
Irving Weiner by the Weiner family
Joyce Marie Weinstein by John Weinstein
RABBI CANTOR GIMBEL’S FUND
In appreciation of:
Rabbi Cantor Gimbel enriching and enhancing the musical and spiritual components of Beth Israel by Alyse and David Kirschen
Rabbi Cantor Gimbel for all he did to make Avery’s B’nei Mitzvah amazing and special day for their family by Jessica and William Perilman
The ongoing support of the Dean family by Cathy Cozen and Elazar Harel
Rabbi Cantor Gimbel by Liz Sharp
The baby naming of their granddaughter Peyton Brodie Greene by Barbara and Robert Ziering
For sheet music by Lianna Mendelson
Rabbi Cantor Gimbel for officiating their wedding by Yue Zhao and Leeran Barziali
The shiva service for Arlene Granet by Lisa and David Granet
Maggie and Ben Pappelbaum’s B’nei Mitzvah by Shawn and Adam Pappelbaum
In honor of:
Rabbi Gimbel’s instillation as Cantor by Becky and Daniel Baird and family, Seekey Cacciatore and Cory Briggs, Doreen and Marvin Estrin, Bonnie and Barry Graff , Joan and Steven Gross, Alyse and David Kirschen, Linda and Larry Okmin, Elizabeth and Mitch Siegler
Susan Huchison’s 25 years of dedicated service by Sarah and Rabbi Jeremy Gimbel
Alex Massey’s B’nei Mitzvah by Valerie and Steven Massey
The unveiling for Jim Malkus by Dana Cunningham and Gail Malkus
Rabbi Cantor Gimbel by Linda and Jeffrey Shohet
Rabbi Cantor Gimbel and his unending talent and commitment to our community by the Kuhn family
In memory of:
Maxine Altshuler by Earl and Sandra Altshuler
Hermine Bachrach by David and Linda Bachrach
Richard Bachrach by David and Linda Bachrach
Sarah Bacow and Gail Zides
Samuel BeRossy by the Friedman family
Eleanor Cooper by Dale and Gerald Spector
Mervin Cooper by Dale and Gerald Spector
Warren Dean by Cathy Cozen and Elazar Harel, Judith Kossy and Phillip Kossy
Sandra Fairman by Joan Kutner
Charles Ginsberg by Robert and Jamison Ginsberg
Robert Ilko by Jackie and Sue Geller
Charles Kellogg by Liz Sharp
Ruth Kellogg by Liz Sharp
Roz Myers by Gerald and Dale Spector
Dave Roller by Linda and Larry Okmin
Karen Rund by Eileen Wingard
Abram Sharp by Liz Sharp
Becky Sharp by Liz Sharp
Jacob Sharp by Liz Sharp
Lifsha Sharp by Liz Sharp
Alfred Wahl by Geoffrey Wahl and Barbara Parker
Bertha Wahl by Geoffrey Wahl and Barbara Parker
Harry Wohlander by Kirby Wohlander
Max Zides by Gail Zides
RABBI ACKERMAN HIRSCH FUND
In appreciation of:
Rabbi Ackerman Hirsch’s help with Avery’s B’nei Mitzvah by Jessica and William Perilman
Rabbi Ackerman Hirsch for her genuine kindness and warm interactive conversations by Richard Weinroth
Rabbi Ackerman Hirsch’s wise and insightful Shabbat teaching of Chavurah 613 by Emily and Chris Jennewein
In memory of:
Noah Hirsch by Marcia Bakst
BETH ISRAEL
Contribution by:
Herbert Adelman
Mindy and Art Lewis
Jan Nielsen and Jack Peter
Suzanne and Marc Pollack
Sarah & Malcom Reuben
In appreciation of:
Yahrzeits for family members by Carol and Daniel Strub
Purim celebration by Jenny and Ray Kaupp
In honor of:
Norman Rozansky’s 90th birthday by Toby and Howard Cohen, Janet Leeds
Stephanie and David Ulevitch by Susan and Richard Ulevitch
The birth of their grandson Robert Howard Ulevitch by Susan and Richard Ulevitch
Larry Newman's z”l posthumously winning the ski/golf group's annual NCAA Final Four draw for 2025 by Neil Satovsky
In memory of:
Goldina Almus by Fanny Almus-Jacobs and Larry Jacobs
Blanche Ashe by Jessica and Michael Middleton
Reuben Baker by Steven Wagner
Rose Kislin Baroff by Marina Baroff and Robert Kaplan
Max Bern by Fred and Brenda Bern
Mitchell Berner by Kelly Berner
Rose Bronstein by Terri Bignell
Edward Carnot by Nancy and Dean Abelon, Wendy Abramson, Janet and David Desmon, Carol Fox, Susan and Samuel Keith, Su-Yen and David Kuhn, Ann Mound, Paula and Joel Picker
Warren Dean by the Book family
Cecil D. Elfenbein by Judith Leitner
Bernice Felsenthal by Brenda and Fred Bern
Matthew Fox by Judith and Art Salomon
Irvin Franks by Penny Franks Spector
Jean Goldberg by Suzi and Berni Feldman
Anna Goldstein by Marc and Suzanne Pollack
Charles Gordon by Rita and Harold Block
Rachel Greenberg by Martin and Jean Greenberg
Susie Greenberg by Alan Greenberg and Sharon Gorevitz
Leon Gross by Susan and Ed Weiner
Edward Janon by Sarah Marks
Florence Kass by Irving and Jan Kass
Charles Kellogg by Liz Sharp
Ruth Kellogg by Liz Sharp
Gloria Kuhn by David and Su-Yen Kuhn
Anna Lanner by Robert Feier
Fred Leeds by Iris Strauss
Harvey Robert Levine by Judy Levine
Sol Lipsky by Rita and Harold Block
Esther Lohn by Ellen, Tom, and Liza Konnert
Sylvia Maniscalco by Alan Greenberg and Sharon Gorevitz
Joel Nagorner by Susan and Bernard Feldman
Nettie A. Nevin by Alan and Nancy Nevin
Michael Park by Paula Park and Richard Kitson
Jessica Pearlman by Edgar and Julie Berner
Casra K. Pollack by Marc and Suzanne Pollack
Lauren Resnik by Sherron and Jack Schuster
Dorothy Rubenfeld by Martin and Mary Rubenfeld
Fran Saknow by Lynn and Dick Gordon
Jack Schaffer by Mary and Martin Rubenfeld
Johanna “Hannie” Schattman by Phillip Linssen and Patricia Ungar-Linssen
Peter Pinchas Shaanan by Gad and Suzan Shaanan
Yvette Devidas Shaanan by Gad and Suzan Shaanan
Abram Sharp by Liz Sharp
Becky Sharp by Liz Sharp
Jacob Sharp by Liz Sharp
Lifsha Sharp by Liz Sharp
Donald R. Silldorf by Howard and Beverly Silldorf
Abdallah Simon by Ronald and Ann Simon
Linda H. Sitnick by Elizabeth and David Balfour
Robert L. Smith by Gregory and Arlette Smith
Ryan Smith by Margaret Katleman and Richard Perlman
Louis Spector by Penny Franks Spector
Jacob Stein by Edith Stein
Tema Stein by Edith Stein
Fran Suknow by Lynn and Richard Gordon
Irving Suknow by Lynda and Richard Gordon
Steven Turkel by Beverly and Howard Silldorf
Ethel Wagner by Steven Wagner
Gene Weissman by Edward and Suzanne Weissman
Sidney Winicki by Suzi and Berni Feldman
Steven Winter by Lori Shearer and Brian Haubenstock
George Wise by Allison and Robert Price
Wassey Zbikowski by Nancy and Dean Abelon
BILL AND SID RUBIN PRESCHOOL
In memory of:
Ronnie Chod by Allan and Helene Ziman
Lynn Epsten by Michael Stotsky
Shirley Mantell Friedman by Helene and Allan Ziman
Susie Greenberg by Jill and Mark Spitzer
Larry Mantell by Neal Rubin and Lilian Bennet
William Paul by Helene and Allan Ziman
Lauren Resnik by Helene and Allan Ziman
Norman Rubin by Neal Rubin and Lilian Bennet
Rita Schwartz by Helene and Allan Ziman
Ellen Solomon by Cheryl Solomon and Mike Ferry, David Solomon
Rabbi Jonathan Stein by Helene and Allan Ziman
Helen Ziman by Allan and Helene Ziman
LEE AND FRANK GOLDBERG FAMILY
RELIGIOUS SCHOOL
In honor of:
Rabbi Cantor Gimbel’s instillation service by Anne Nagorner and the Goldberg family
In memory of:
Dmitriy Lutsker by Susan and Bernard Feldman
Lynn Epsten by Susan and Bernard Feldman, Lee Goldberg
Shirley Harris by Barbara and Jeffrey Gordon
Myron Shelley by Anne Nagorner and Goldberg family
Rita Schwartz by Anne Nagorner and Goldberg family
ADOPT-A-SOLDIER FUND
In honor of:
Norman Rozansky’s 90th birthday by Geri and Robert Friedman
ADULT EDUCATION
In memory of:
Michael Abelon by Dean and Nancy Abelon
Harry Kass by Irving and Jan Kass
Khava Slavutskaya by Ken and Mila Favilukis
Dottie Tennebaum by Michael Heinzman
Isabelle Tennebaum by Michael Heinzman
BUILDING FUND
In memory of:
Edward Carnot by the Chai Chavurah
CAMPERSHIP FUND
In honor of:
Susan Huchison’s 25 years of dedicated service by Doreen and Marvin Estrin
In memory of:
Edward Carnot by Robin Samit
Warren Dean by Janice and Jay Schuffman
Benjamin Layton by Jonathan and Robin Layton
Ethel Schuffman by Jay and Janice Schuffman
CARING COMMUNITY
In appreciation of:
Joanne Gimbel, Rabbi Cantor Gimbel, and the Caring Community by Martin Stern
Their Mi Shebeirach bags by Anita and Rabbi Marty Lawson
Caring Community for the thoughtful Mi Shebeirach bag delivery to their home by Carol and Bruce Heilbrunn
The continued devotion of Beth Israel leaders and members to continue to help Beth Israel grow more as a community, and care for all its members by Rabbi Michael and Aliza Berk Kindness shown by the Caring Community and Rabbi Nevarez by Richard Weinroth
Their hard work supporting our community by Judith Hahn
Katey Lindley and the Caring Community by Simma and Paul Nemeth
The great work the caring community does for so many people by Susanne and Mark Schlissel
In honor of:
Cecilia Jacobs’ B’nei Mitzvah by Nancy and Don Sandweiss
Terri Bignell’s special birthday by Holly and David Hazan
In memory of:
Mindy Bornstein by Sandy Bornstein
Edward Carnot by Linda and Terry Vann, Gayle Wise
Mabel Danenberg by the Carr family
Lynn Epsten by Lisa and Adam Kleiger
Bob Fischer by Adam and Rachelle Fischer
Lori Gilbert-Kaye by Ellen and Larry Edwards
Jeanne Gross by Steve and Joani Gross
Darlene Heinzman by Michael Heinzman
Sala Hudes by Adam and Rachelle Fischer
Ann Kamel by Roxanne Hersh
Charles Kellogg by Liz Sharp
Ruth Kellogg by Liz Sharp
Clare Lesnick by Pamela and Stanley Herskovitz
Joseph Lesnick by Pamela and Stanley Herskovitz
Samuel Moskowitz by Ellen and Larry Edwards
Elsie Price by Janet Price-Silverstein
David Rosenblatt by Carol Rosenblatt
Don Shaevel by Geri Shaevel
Abram Sharp by Liz Sharp
Becky Sharp by Liz Sharp
Jacob Sharp by Liz Sharp
Lifsha Sharp by Liz Sharp
Rabbi Jonathan Stein by Sue and Jackie Geller
Steven Winter by Sue and Jackie Geller, Ellie, Anna, and Melanie Livingstone
George Wise by Sue and Jackie Geller
CAR DONATION PROGRAM
Contribution by:
Emily and Ben Ginsberg
HUNGER PROJECT
Contribution by:
Julie and Howard Haimsohn
Barbara and Paul Insel
Mia and Todd Kemp
Sylvie Snyder and Phillip Cohen
Penny Franks Spector
Judith Wilensky
Stephanie and Daniel Zelac
In honor of:
Norman Rozansky’s 90th birthday by Irene Borevitz
Terry Bignell’s special birthday by Bev and Len Bernstein, Nancy and Marty Goldberg, Roanne Gotthelf, Marge Katleman and Richard Perlman
In memory of:
Clifford Acheatel by Roger Acheatel and Ingrid Scharpf
Sydell Acheatel by Roger Acheatel and Ingrid Scharpf
Eli Amiel by David and Nancy Amiel
Inez Amiel by David and Nancy Amiel
Gustav Axelrod by Andrew Ries and Vivian Reznik
Rose Axelrod by Andrew Ries and Vivian Reznik
Sidney Baba by Sally and Joseph Nalven
William Bachrach by David and Linda Bachrach
Max Brody by Gordon and Marla Gerson
Edward Carnot by Olivia and Marty Winkler
Louis Chesner by Susan Levin and family
Maylyn Chester by Deborah Geary
Donald Cohn by Esther Fischer
Warren Dean by Bev and Len Bernstein
Lynn Epsten by Esther Fischer
Hy Glaser by Debbie and Ron Herz
Abraham Golokow by David Golokow and Sara Maltzman
Dorothy Green by Helen Green
Philip Green by Helen Green
Samuel Greenberg by Martin and Jean Greenberg
Sam Greene by Beverlee Greene
Edith Tennebaum Heinzman by Michael Heinzman
Stephanie Heinzman by Terry and Carol Tennebaum
Jacob Horowitz by Irene Cooper
Daniel Jacobs by Heather Shortreed
Ann Kamel by Roxanne Hersh
Julian Klein by Linda and Jerry Goldberg
Albert Nalven by Joseph and Sally Nalven
Anna Nalven by Joe and Sally Nalven
Rose Pechet by Lynn Pechet-Bruser and Howard Pechet
Harry Roller by Linda and Larry Okmin and family
Sylvia Roller by Linda and Larry Okmin and family
Robert Rosenzweig by Stacey Coleman and Michael Chasin
David Sandweiss by Don and Nancy Sandweiss
Freda Sandweiss by Don and Nancy Sandweiss
Morris Stein by Nancy and Don Sandweiss
Barbara Slate by Heidi and Steven Levin
Rose Stein by Nancy and Don Sandweiss
Lawrence Sternfield by Hedy Witham
Charles Winokur by Peter and Joan Winokur
Seymour Winokur by Peter and Joan Winokur
Susan Schwartz Witten by Beth Schulefand
Arthur Wright by Terri Bignell
ISRAEL ENGAGEMENT NETWORK
In honor of:
Norman Rozansky’s milestone birthday by Karen Leeds
In memory of:
Ben Alexander by Norma Alexander
Stephen Berkowitz by Jay Berkowitz and Jorrie Miller
Stephanie Christy by Silvana and Richard Christy
Adolfo Di Capua by Silvana and Richard Christy
Gayle Slate by Heidi and Steve Levin and family
Sanders Steinbach by Sandy Bornstein
ONEG SHABBAT/KIDDUSH
Contribution by:
Nancy and Dean Abelon, Ingrid Scharpf and Roger Acheatel, Judy Adler, Nancy and David Amiel, Brooke and Matthew Bassuk, Deborah and Isaac Bejar, Ellen Benkle, Terri Bignell, Nurit Carmel, Ann and Alan Chaitin, Stacy and Karton Chenelle, Joan Chesner, Si Coleman, Joan Cook, Ellen and Larry Edwards, Thomas Engel, Norma and Richard Erth, Robert Feier, Jean Feinstein, Janine and Sanford Feldman, Todd Frank, Jeff Freeman, Judy Friedman, Julie and Andrew Gardner, Joan and Arnold Gass, Sylvia and David Geffen, Deborah and A. Marcus Gerber, Marcia and Matthew Gettinger, Joanne and Kenneth Gimbel, Nancy and Joe Gordon, Jean and Martin Greenberg, Diana Hahn, Pamela and Walter Hanig, Betsy and Richard Haubrich, Penny Franks Spector, Leora Suprun
In honor of:
Peyton Brodie Greene’s baby naming by Barbara and Robert Ziering
Talia Baird’s high school graduation by Rebecca and Daniel Baird
In memory of:
Dorothy Green by Helen Green
Philip Green by Helen Green
Jimmy H. Heimann by Louis Galper
Charles Kellogg by Liz Sharp
Ruth Kellogg by Liz Sharp
David Leeds by Barbara and Norman Rozansky
Paul Leeds by Barbara and Norman Rozansky
Art Letter by Geraldine Goodstone
Abram Sharp by Liz Sharp
Becky Sharp by Liz Sharp
Jacob Sharp by Liz Sharp
Lifsha Sharp by Liz Sharp
SOCIAL ACTION
In memory of:
Warren Dean by Ruth Romanoff
Elaine Gutstadt by Jan and Irving Kass
Jeffrey Heilbrunn by Judy Faitek
Anita Hosenpud by Karen Coleman
TORAH STUDY AND MINYAN
Contribution by:
Barbara Grier and Michael Swarzman
Audrey and Steven Levine
In memory of:
Allan Adler by Judy Adler
David Adam Alper by Janice Alper
Ethel Alper by Janice Alper
Joseph Alper by Janice Alper
Marvin J. Alper by Janice Alper
Sharon Alper by Janice Alper
Sidney Baba by Sally and Joseph Nalven
Anna Bashlow by Susan Levin
Fred Davidson by Susan Levin
Nellie Davidson by Susan Levin
Judy Horowtiz Glenn by Gordon Glenn
James Goding by Jane and Bert Lazerow
Rose Goding by Jane and Bert Lazerow
Stephanie Heinzman by Michael Heinzman
Alyce Kirschenbaum by Maxine and Allan Endy
Claire Levin by Susan Levin
Ed Levin by Susan Levin
Fred Levin by Susan Levin
Jeffrey Loeb by Jean Feinstein
Karola Koppel Loeb by Jean Feinstein
Albert Nalven by Joseph and Sally Nalven
MEN’S CLUB
Contribution by:
M. Robert Breslauer
Stacey Coleman and Michael Chasin
Louis Galper
Joan and Arnold Gass
Joan and Steven Gross
Amanda Johnson
Leslie Mark and Kenneth Gross
Judy Metz
Jorrie Miller and Jay Berkowitz
Simma and Paul Nemeth
Charles Spitzer
Marty Stern
Tamara and Thomas Wendoll
In appreciation of:
Marty Stern by Geri Shaevel and family
In memory of:
Abraham Berkowitz by Jay Berkowitz and Jorrie Miller
Sondra L. Breslauer by M. Robert Breslauer
Arthur Chasin by Mike Chasin and Stacey Coleman
Larry Solomon by Judy Metz
Albert Stern by Martin Stern
Esther Udoff by Eric and Ronni Udoff
MEN’S CLUB YOM HASHOAH
Contribution by:
Roger Acheatel and Ingrid Scharpf
Lisa Guterman
Joan and Jeffrey Harris
Jan and Irving Kass
Robin and Jonathan Layton
Jorrie Miller and Jay Berkowitz
Stephanie and Robert Rubin
Tamara and Thomas Wendoll
In memory of:
Rabbi Jonathan Stein by Susan Stein
WOMEN OF BETH ISRAEL
In memory of:
Aenne-Ruth Kahn by Vivian Rich
Phyllis Levinson by Emily and Chris Jennewein
Karen Welland by Emily and Chris Jennewein
GENERAL AND NAMED ENDOWMENT FUNDS
BETH ISRAEL ENDOWMENT FUND
In memory of:
Edward Carnot by Elizabeth and Mitch Siegler
Karen Rund by Elizabeth and Mitch Siegler
Rita Schwartz by Elizabeth and Mitch Siegler
Sol Wortman by Norma and Richard Erth
LOUIS & LEE TEMKIN HUNGER PROJECT MEMORIAL FUND
In memory of:
Joel Nagorner by Barbara Nagorner
SHEARN & LINDA PLATT YOUTH TO ISRAEL FUND
In honor of:
Norman Rozansky’s 90th birthday by Linda Platt
In memory of:
Shearn Platt by Linda Platt
DONA SHENKMAN CAMPERSHIP FUND
In honor of:
David Kroll’s birthday by Genine RainbeauHeart
SILBERMAN FAMILY RELIGIOUS SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In memory of:
Isador Silberman by Ronald and Nanci Slayen
Helen Betty Slayen by Ronald and Nanci Slayen
RABBI’S YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In appreciation of:
All the clergy, Morah Katey and Eugene for their support of Ashley Habas’s B’nei Mitzvah by Allison and Brian Habas
MEMORIAL AND NAMED SPECIAL FUNDS
RABBI BERNSTEIN CANTOR EMERITA’S ISRAEL TRAVEL SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Contribution by:
Katherine Paculba Lacher and Jess Lacher
In memory of:
Irene Osias by David and Jeanette Osias
Beatrice Taffel by Sheree Stiegler
Joseph Taffel by Sheree Stiegler
William Taffel by Sheree Stiegler
Josef Emdin Usatin by Netanya and Karl Cranford
BILL AND GEORGE BURNETT MEMORIAL LIBRARY FUND
In memory of:
Austin Hutchison by Robin Samit and family
Phyllis Siegel by Barbara Gellman
CARNOT DISCRETIONARY FUND
In memory of:
Edward Carnot by Linda Cohen, Stephanie and Robert Rubin, Lori Shearer and Brian Haubenstock, Karin and Anthony Toranto, Rachel and Adam Welland
BONNIE GRAFF SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE FUND
In memory of:
Millie S. Friedman by Deborah Horwitz and Paul Nierman
Leonard G. Nierman by Paul Nierman and Deborah Horwitz
George Wise by Bonnie and Barry Graff
DOROTHY & ROBERT SHAPIRO GARDEN ENDOWMENT
Contribution by:
Edward Shapiro
HAUBENSTOCK-NEVAREZ FUND TO COMBAT ANTISEMITISM
In memory of:
Gerald Rosen by Marcia and Matthew Gettinger
Rabbi Jonathan Stein by Wendy Mantel
KENTON-KLEINBERG FUND FOR THE NEEDY
In memory of:
Audrey Newman by Margy Newman
Sibley Newman by Margy Newman
MONTE KOBEY PRESCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP MEMORIAL FUND
In memory of:
Gizella Nevins by Murray Rogow
Harry B. Rogow by Murray Rogow
JACOB NOVAK MEMORIAL FUND
In memory of:
Jack Shumacher by Alan and Harriet Shumacher
CINDY POLGER’S COLLEGE CREW FUND
In memory of:
Warren Jay Dean by Elissa Livingstone
Myron Shelley by Doreen and Marvin Estrin
HELENE SCHLAFMAN MADRICHIM FUND
In memory of:
Rachel Chasin by Michael Chasin and Stacey Coleman
TAMMY VENER PRESCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In memory of:
Vina Keaton by Nancy and Alan Nevin
Morris Nevin by Nancy and Alan Nevin
BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE CAMPAIGN –MIKVAH
Contribution by:
Katherine Paculba Lacher and Jess Lacher
Sylvie Snyder and Phillip Cohen
In memory of:
Terri Cacciatore by Seekey Cacciatore and Cory Briggs
Rabbi Jonathan Stein by Sally and Joe Nalven, Ellen and John Rothmann, Trudy San Filippo, Marilyn Smith
TEMPLE MUSIC FUND
In honor of:
Everyone who made the High Holy Day services so meaningful, musical and special by Roni Breite and Maurice Pessot
In memory of:
Edna Briggs by Cory Briggs and Seekey Cacciatore
Carol Falberg by Lisa and Doug Kalal
Howard Falberg by Lisa and Doug Kalal
Max Heinzman by Michael Heinzman
Beth Kalal by Doug and Lisa Kalal
Charles Kellogg by Liz Sharp
Ruth Kellogg by Liz Sharp
Joseph Loeb by Jean Feinstein
David Overbach by Cory Briggs and Seekey Cacciatore
Max Portugal by Cory Briggs and Seekey Cacciatore
Morton Rabkin by Barbara Rabkin
Abram Sharp by Liz Sharp
Becky Sharp by Liz Sharp
Jacob Sharp by Liz Sharp
Lifsha Sharp by Liz Sharp
The Beth Israel Quarterly is published Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer by Congregation Beth Israel of San Diego
9001 Towne Centre Drive
San Diego, CA 92122
Voice: 858 535 –1111
Fax: 858 900 –2501
Bill & Sid Rubin Preschool 858 900 –2530
Lee & Frank Goldberg Family Religious School 858 900 –2550 www.cbisd.org / cbi@cbisd.org
Senior Rabbi Jason Nevarez
Rabbi Cantor Jeremy Gimbel
Rabbi Arlene Bernstein, Cantor Emerita
Assistant Rabbi Elana Ackerman Hirsch
Executive Director Lesley Mills
President John Lefter
Like us on Facebook: Congregation Beth Israel
Follow us on Instagram: @bethisraelsandiego
Postage PAID
San Diego, CA
Permit No. 166
CONNECT WITH NEW AND OLD FRIENDS AT MEMBER MEET UPS! These engaging gatherings offer something for everyone. Each Meet Up is inspired and hosted by one of our very own congregants. They’re fun, interactive, and a great way to build community. We look forward to seeing you there!
The Ultimate Podcast Club Monday, July 21 | 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Member Meet Up: JewJam Saturdays, July 26, August 39, and September 27 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm
Senior Social Hours Back by Popular Demand! Fridays, August 1 (New date) & October 24 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
For more information and registration, visit scan the QR code or visit cbisd.org/ get-involved/member-meet-ups/.