Early Childhood Education Director Debbie Blumenthal
Religious School Director Joyce Bronstein
Early Childhood Education Asst. Director Keri Loventhal
Office Manager Shane Silverstein
ECE Administrative Assistant Jessica Jacoby
RS Administrative Assistant Sarah Karamas
Clergy Assistant Jill Rosenberg
Musical Director Mariano Dugatkin
Board of Trustees
President Felicia Toporoff
Vice President Dan Lubetkin
Immediate Past President Eric Feigenbaum
Treasurer Arnie Blitstein
If you are interested in placing an
please send an email to: communications@templeetzchaim.org
Secretary Brianna Abrams Trustee, Bingo Michael Roberts Trustee, Building and Grounds Steve Plotkin Trustee, Early Childhood Education Josh Atlas Trustee, Financial Consideration Neal Arons Trustee, Inclusion Paula Lefko Trustee, Membership Rachael Pugh Trustee, Personnel & Legal Affairs Josh Hopstone Trustee, Programming Evan Robichaud Trustee, Religion and Worship Cheryl Math Trustee, Religious Education Adya Riss Trustee, Security Paul Dryman Trustee, Social Action Pam Friedman Trustee, Ways & Means Donald Zimring President, Men’s Club Mark Goldstein President, Women of TEC Phyllis Dankberg & Elissa
Past
Past
Past
Letters from Our Leaders
Rabbi Ari Averbach
rabbiaverbach@templeetzchaim.org
If you have been to my office, you know of the countless books on the shelves (and more in the cabinets) that keep me company. There is some historical basis to this passion to be surrounded by wisdom – the Quran calls us the People of the Book, and that title has stuck. People often recommend books to me. I do my best to read them, or at least parts of them, if I feel it will help with my role as rabbi. One recent book was Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew, which is written out as a scripted dialogue between Noa Tishby (a Jewish “influencer”) and Emmanuel Acho (a football player and sportscaster).
The book is problematic, to be sure, and I am happy to talk about that. But perhaps my bristling is with the title, which could have been Uncomfortable Conversations with Someone Who Knows Nothing About Judaism.
So much of the book is Emmanuel asking a question like, “Are Jews
white?” and Noa giving a long answer explaining the history of Jewish migration since the diaspora 2600 years ago, which includes Jews in India, central Africa, the Middle East and across Europe; Jews of every race that it is impossible to say Jews are of one skin tone (something we probably all know, just by looking at the TEC community). She is so patient with her answer. And I realize how many people know nothing about Jews or Judaism. How many people are out there protesting and shouting, and don’t know any facts. This book is a fascinating resource for how to explain our current plight – not just since October 7th, but since the beginning of antisemitism, the beginning of Zionism.
I received a call this week from someone who claimed that Jews have no historical right to the land of Israel. Once I collected myself, I wanted to recommend this book. It is accessible, written in the language people speak, and thoroughly fact-checked by so many people. A great place to start.
Noam Fields-Meyer Gould, Hazzan
Noam@templeetzchaim.org
Kayitz Sameach (Happy Summer), TEC! I’m thrilled to be writing to you today as both a doctor of music theory and, more importantly, as your full-time cantor. It brings me immense joy to come into our sacred space each day, to do the rewarding work of “tuning things up”—no pun intended—to keep our synagogue vibrant, engaging, and responsive to the diverse voices and experiences of our community. My aim is to ensure that every person feels seen, heard, and represented, fostering an atmosphere where we can all grow and learn together.
I want to use this space to share a few exciting initiatives that I’m currently spearheading: Firstly, our adult chamber choir is now in full swing, actively rehearsing for the upcoming High Holidays. This dedicated group meets weekly and brings together singers with strong choral backgrounds. After the High Holidays, I’ll be opening auditions to welcome new members into this talented ensemble, as we continue to enrich our community with music throughout the entire year.
Secondly, I am reaching out to families, inviting children and teens from first through twelfth grade to join me in leading our High Holiday services. If your child enjoys singing and performing, I’d love to hear from them! I’m interested in learning about their musical experiences and offering them an opportunity to lead a song or prayer during services. My goal is to make the High Holidays more memorable—not only for the participating children
and their families—but for our entire community. To get involved, please email me at noam@templeetzchaim.org.
Additionally, I’m excited to announce the launch of a children’s choir, which will rehearse after religious school on Sunday mornings around 11:30 a.m. This choir offers a wonderful opportunity for kids to build musical skills, explore their Jewish heritage, make new friends, and create lasting memories. We will begin with High Holidays music but look forward to performing at events throughout the year, including Hanukkah and Purim celebrations. Stay tuned for more details, and I look forward to welcoming many enthusiastic young singers.
Lastly, I’m developing a new weekly class focused on Jewish synagogue music, intended for adults of all ages and backgrounds. Together, we’ll explore questions like: Why this particular melody? Where did it originate? How has it evolved over time? While the class will include listening sessions and discussions based on readings, it will also serve as a living “museum” of our personal musical experiences in synagogue settings. I am eager to learn from your own meaningful memories and perspectives. Your stories will help us understand the deeper significance of music in our communal and spiritual lives. As I continue to grow as both a cantor and scholar, I warmly invite you to join me in these explorations. Your participation will greatly enrich our understanding and appreciation of the beautiful, diverse musical traditions that connect us.
Felicia Toporoff, President ftoporoff@templeetzchaim.org
By the time this article reaches all of you, we will be fully into the second month of the new fiscal year and with that a new Board of Trustees to help guide our community towards the future. Being a member of the Board of Trustees brings a lot of personal satisfaction knowing that you, as a member, are helping to shape the course of our synagogue and finding new ways to support our growing community. But this satisfaction comes with a significant time commitment, and I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the dedication and time that this group of congregants volunteer on a regular basis to ensure that this organization runs smoothly.
I want to thank the members who have previously served and who’s terms have ended along with our new members who have stepped into those roles to continue the valuable work and spirit of volunteerism that makes Temple Etz Chaim so special. We appreciate everyone’s efforts more than can be expressed.
The Board and I look forward to the year ahead and we hope all of you are as well. And if you’re interested in what being a Board member entails, please feel free to reach out to any of us. We would love to talk to you about becoming more involved.
I hope you have had some fun experiences during the summer months. The seven weeks are upon us and before we know it, the High Holidays are here. Which is the time to summarize your good deeds for the year.
The day that most of us forget during this month of Av is the 15 of Av, Tu B’Av, which is the Jewish Valentine’s Day. In Mishna Ta’anit 4:8 we read “Rabban Shimon ben Gamliel said: The Jewish people did not have festivals comparable to the 15th of or Yom Kippur, when the maidens of Jerusalem went out dressed in white clothes that they borrowed from one another. So as not to embarrass one who did not have fine clothing. The maidens of Jerusalem were to go out and dance in the vineyards, and unmarried men would go there to choose a wife.” This was a day of matchmaking and celebration.
It’s a wonderful reminder that our tradition offers such multitudes of emotions within one week of each other. From Tisha B’Av to Tu B’Av, we personify Ecclesiastes “a time to mourn, and a time to dance.”
The high points for myself have been the joint celebration of my wife Irma’s big birthday and my graduation from Chaplaincy school, and the FJMC international Convention in Chicago. Temple Etz Chaim was celebrated and well represented at the convention. Both me and Myles Simpson were honored. Gary Katz was installed as EVP for the movement. I’d like to thank the Board and Clergy for the kind words in the tribute journal as well as the ad in the last ETZ.
The not so good is that the war in Israel is ongoing with little chance of peace in a foreseeable future. I am longing to visit but I suppose it will have to wait.
TEC Education
Debbie Blumenthal, Early Education Director debbieb@templeetzchaim.org
We are in the second month of the 2025-26 school year and already the children are settling into their classrooms and comfortable with the daily routines at school. Our weekly themes this month include dinosaurs, pirates and mermaids, the ocean, and we will end the month with a beach bash!
Mr. Jeffrey is our music specialist, and all the children are enjoying his instruments, drum circle activities, and fun interactive songs. Summer camp songs are always the best!
We have some great programs this month including a Mad Science Show, Foamin’ Fun, Captain Carl Ocean Touch Tanks, and Soccer Shots. Our summer has been filled with new and exciting experiences for all ages.
Each Thursday, we have been learning about a new artist and
trying out new art techniques just like the famous artists. This month we will learn about Vincent Van Gogh, Wassily Kandinsky, Jackson Pollack and Andy Warhol. The children are amazing artists, and I look forward to seeing how each child explores the different styles and art materials.
This month we will say goodbye to our 4-year-olds who are leaving to start TK programs in their local public schools. We will miss everyone and wish them all the best as they continue their education journey. Hopefully we will see most of them as they begin Religious School at Temple Etz Chaim in September.
I hope to see everyone at TEC’s Tailgate Shabbat program on August 15th!
Shalom, Debbie Blumenthal
Joyce Bronstein, Religious School Director joyce@templeetzchaim.org
Throughout the summer months, we are preparing for another incredible year in Religious School. We’ve missed seeing our students’ smiling faces, and we’re eagerly counting down the days until we welcome everyone back! The first day of Religious School for students in grades TK–7 is Sunday, September 7.
Before the school year begins, we invite you to join us for one of our favorite TEC traditions, Tailgate Shabbat, on Friday, August 15, at 5:30 p.m. This fun, inclusive event is a chance for families to reconnect, share summer stories, and celebrate Shabbat together. We’ll enjoy a delicious dinner, followed by popsicles for dessert, and later in the evening experience a beautiful Shabbat Service under the Stars. All you need to do is RSVP and bring your blankets and chairs. Please bring your friends, and let’s welcome Shabbat together.
If you know a family who might be looking for a Temple community
or is considering enrolling their children in Religious School, this is a perfect time to introduce them to TEC. They’ll have the opportunity to meet me, other staff members, and current school families in a relaxed and welcoming Shabbat experience.
Being part of the TEC community and enrolling your children in Religious School lays the foundation for a lifelong connection to Jewish values, traditions, and identity. A Jewish education is a lasting gift you give to your children—one that will guide and inspire them for years to come.
If you have any questions or would just like to say hello, my door is always open. I love when families stop by! Wishing you and your family a happy, safe, and meaningful summer.
Warmly, Joyce
TEC Community
Phyllis Dankberg & Elissa Lazarus, Co-President, Women of TEC
I hope you’ve all been enjoying your summer—whether that means traveling, spending time with family, or simply taking a well-earned break. As we begin to transition into the new year, I wanted to share some of what’s coming up for Women of Temple Etz Chaim.
We’ll be kicking off the 2025–26 year with our Torah Fund Ice Cream Social on September 9th. It’s always a lovely chance to reconnect after the summer, enjoy some ice cream together, and hear about this year’s Torah Fund campaign. This fund continues to support the education of Rabbis, Cantors, and Jewish educators— something we’re very proud to be a part of.
Looking ahead, please save the date for our Paid-Up Membership Luncheon on November 16th. It’s always a warm, welcoming event with good food, raffle prizes, and time to just enjoy each
other’s company. Many of us look forward to it every year.
We’re also starting to plan a Tu B’Shvat garden program and some Israeli dancing later in the year—more details to come. During the High Holidays, look for our program card in the foyer—it’ll have the full list of events for the year.
And if you’d like to be more involved, we’d truly love to have you. Whether it’s helping with a single event or joining a committee, there are so many ways to contribute and connect. You can reach out to Jill Rosenberg, our Programs Vice President, if you’re interested.
Keep an eye on your email for our Constant Contact updates, and don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you have questions—or just want to say hello.
Pam Friedman, Trustee, Social Action
I would like to invite you to join Social Action. We work together to help make the world a better place, Tikku Olam one step at a time.
We work through community service projects to support local causes. We meet monthly on the third Tuesday where we plan our outreach programs and service projects.
Here are a few of our community outreach and service projects: We support Harbor House each month by making 80 lunches supporting their Feed the Hungry program. Harbor House provides lunches and hot meals for the homeless 365 days a year.
We have a food donation bin at our temple office, for the Conejo Valley Food Bank. We collect donations every day for those in need. We are proud to work together to provide support for these worthy causes and many more.
Join us, as we reach out to help others in need. We do not have to finish the mitzvah but simply start the mitzvah one step at a time.
For The Conejo Closet, who supports CVUSD students and families in need, we provide year-round donations of underwear, socks, sweatshirts, toiletries and other needed items. The Conejo Closet is managed by CVUSD Department of Student Support Services. We provide support services and donations to the Westminster Free Clinic. The clinic provides free medical care to those in need in the local community. They also train high school students through their Teen Healthcare lnternship program.
Mark Goldstein, President, Men’s Club
Shalom! Hope you are having a good summer! We had a fun, educational and meaningful Hike and Havdallah on July 19 with 32 attending, aged from 10 to 90! We were lucky enough to see many deer and enjoy wonderful weather. Thank you to Nikki Stokols for leading the hike and providing information on the many plants viewed on the trail. Thank you to Benny Sommerfeld for leading Havdalah with ruach. We will plan more Adventures in Learning events like this in the fall and spring, including a Dragon Fruit Orchard visit. Hope to see you there!
The annual Jeff Finn Memorial Dinner is set for August 13. We already have an exciting magic night for adults on Saturday, September 6 on
the books. Upcoming events being planned include a game night for adults. Flyers will be distributed soon with more information for these events. By the time you read this, we will have held our annual planning meeting and BBQ. Keep an eye out for more Men’s Club hosted events to come.
We welcome your participation in organizing, leading or assisting in these programs. Please email mensclub@tempeetzchaim.org to volunteer.
All are welcome to our Men’s Club Board Meetings held the third Tuesday of the month @ 7:00 pm. The next meeting is August 19, 2025.
B’nai Mitzvah
Evan Gorowitz August 9
My name is Evan Gorowitz and I will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on August 9, 2025. I am an 8th Grader at Medea Creek Middle School. At school, my favorite subject is language arts, and I play drums for the regular and jazz bands. My hobbies are playing video games, spending time with family and friends, and reading. I am a competitive swimmer and I enjoy playing and watching all sports. I have been attending Religious School at Temple Etz Chaim since Kindergarten. I would like to thank my religious school teachers, Joyce Bronstein, Hazzan Noam, Rabbi Averbach, and especially my tutor, Rivka Moscovich, for helping to prepare me for this special milestone in my life. I am very grateful to my parents, Alison and Jason Gorowitz, as well as my brother, Elie, for always supporting my goals and dreams.
Noah Slomowitz August 16
Hi, my name is Noah Slomowitz, and I will be starting 8th grade at Redwood Middle School. I have been at TEC since preschool. My favorite subject is science, and I want to be an engineer when I grow up. Outside of school I love to play video games, soccer, and go fishing. I could not have become a bar mitzvah without the help of my mom, dad and family, everyone from religious school, my tutor Rivka Moscovitch and Rabbi Ari Averbach. I look forward to sharing my bar mitzvah with all my friends, family and community.
Danica Neiderman August 23
Hi! My name is Danica Neiderman. I am currently in 9th grade at Newbury Park High School. I have been a student at TEC since 3rd grade, and I am now in Confirmation and volunteer as a teacher’s aide in religious school. When I am not studying, I love to crochet, draw, read, hang out with my family and friends, and participate in musical theater. I would like to thank Rabbi Averbach, Hazzan Fields-Meyer Gould, Joyce Bronstein, and Rivka Moscovitch for guiding me on my journey to become a Bat Mitzvah. And I would also like to thank my parents for their love and support. I am looking forward to celebrating with my sister on the Bima and with everyone who traveled here to be with us on this special day.
Shira Neiderman August 23
Hi, my name is Shira Neiderman, and I am currently in 7th grade at Sycamore Canyon School. I have been a student at TEC since 1st grade and have learned so much throughout the years thank s to the support of the religious school teachers. When I am not in school, I love to paint, play volleyball, ride horses, and volunteer at the local equestrian center. I would like to thank Rabbi Ari, Hazzan Noam, Joyce Bronstein, my tutor, Rivka Moscovitch, and my parents for all their guidance and support on my journey to become a Bat Mitzvah. I am excited to be sharing this milestone with my older sister as we are surrounded by our friends and family.
Eva Bowens August 30
Hi! My name is Eva Bowens, and I am 13 years old. I’m going into 8th grade at Sinaloa Middle School. I have been at TEC since preschool! My favorite things to do are dancing, singing, and acting. I would like to thank Betty Zonshine, Rabbi Ari, Cantor Kenny Ellis, Joyce Bronstein and all the TEC staff for encouraging, supporting and motivating me through all my years at TEC. I would also like to thank my family, friends and everyone else who has helped me put this together.
Simchas
Congratulations to the Kaiser-Durkee family on the birth of
Archie Lawrence Kaiser-Durkee
Born on July 7, 2025
Parents: Ali and Adam Kaiser-Durkee
Siblings: Ava, Axel and Atticus
Grandparents:
Mamie & Lawrence Kaiser and Debi & Tom Durkee
We extend our congratulations to Temple Members
Susan and Andrew Richman on the marriage of their son
Joseph Richman to Jessica “Jesse” Reing
Date: June 27, 2025
Bride’s Parents: Ellen and Gary Reing
We extend our congratulations to Temple Members
Barbara Anik and David Cohan on the marriage of their son
Benjamin Anik to Shawn Parikh
Date: July 20, 2025
Anne & Arnold Organ Memorial Fund
In Memory of Arnold Organ
Stanley Organ
Dunaier Music Fund
In Memory of Eleanor Landau
Gina Landau
Early Childhood Education Fund
In Memory of David Abdolrazagh
Zoe Abdolrazagh
In Memory of Henia Rutberg
Barbara Nemet
In Honor of the Birth of Archie Kaiser-Durkee
Scott & Debbie Blumenthal
In Memory of Jerome Berlin
Leah Shechter
Elisa Feldman Memorial RSSF
In Memory of Minna Agranoff
Eileen Sachs
In Memory of Gertrude Barney
Irwin Barney
In Memory of Abraham Klapper
Bonnie Goldenberg
In Honor of Les & Debbie Feldman’s Birthdays
Leo & Joyce Bronstein
Jotkowitz Camp Ramah
Scholarship Fund
In Memory of Dena Yaskiel
Cyndi Mahler
In Memory of Solomon Fleishman
Sandra Levy
In Memory of Jeanne Salzman
David Salzman
Men’s Club Scholar-in-Residence Fund
In Memory of Rona Kaufman
Joel Shrater
Rabbi Averbach’s Discretionary Fund
In Memory of Sarah Solomon
Marie Rubens
In Memory of Edward Zabel
Sandra Lutzker
In Memory of Fanny Kessler
Gil Kessler
In Memory of Belle Kunin
Ricky Dennis
In Memory of Sadie Borgen
In Memory of Arnold Borgen
Eileen Sachs
In Memory of Howard Grossman
Beth Meyer
In Memory of Steve Zeitlin
Dan & Lori Lubetkin
In Memory of Joan Darsa
Susan Kane
In Memory of Melvin S. Wank
David Wank
In Memory of Myra Bernback
David & Donna Lamm
In Memory of David Pfefferman
Arthur Pfefferman
In Memory of Harry Kramer
Linda Natlin
In Memory of Florence Greenberg
Janis Leshnov
In Memory of Jean O’Connor
Laura Gilbard
In Memory of Irving Zwicker
Joseph Zwicker
In Memory of Harry Treisman
Robin Oberman
In Memory of Nathaniel Rubens
Marie Rubens
In Memory of Max Minarsky
Robert Peisner
In Memory of Betty Buchbinder
In Memory of Martin Sturman
Sara Sturman
In Memory of Ben Zion Kulik
Morry Kulik
In Appreciation of of Rabbi Averbach and the beautiful service for Ron Bara. Thank you.
Karin Bara
Religious School Fund
In Memory of Joan Darsa
Susan Kane
In Memory of Doris Ruvman
Maureen Levine
In Memory of Ruth Wachs
Lesley Schneider
In Memory of Beau Mann
David & Alane Shechter
In Memory of David I. Cohen
In Memory of Beatrice Cohen
Susan Cohen
In Memory of Samuel Jacob Slomowitz
Larry Slomowitz
In Memory of Abraham Berman
Cynthia Urbach
Social Action Fund
In Honor of Feed the Hungry for Harbor House
Myles & Gail Simpson
In Appreciation of Pam Friedman’s hard work on the Social Action Committee
Perry & Susan Pierce
In Memory of Eleanor Landau: I don’t need a Yahrzeit reminder to remember “Ma.” Love Debra
Jay & Debra Levine
Tributes
In Memory of Arnold Landau: I never met Dziadek Arnold in person, but having known Bobcia and Ric makes me think I did. Love Debra
Jay & Debra Levine
In Memory of Louis Rothman
Bonnie Rothman
In Memory of Hanna Hayman
Ann Hayman
Temple General Fund
In Memory of Arnold Landau
Gina Landau
In Memory of Fano Buttica Ciaccio
Rebeccah Schwartz
In Memory of Luzer Finkelstein
Reuben Finkelstein
In Memory of Jack Kalinski
Zvi & Yola Kalinski
In Memory of Beau Mann
Jay & Debra Levine
Robert Charnow
In Memory of Mary Green
William Green
In Memory of Ken Levy
Stuart Comis
In Honor of the Marriage of Benjamin Anik & Shawn Parikh
In Memory of Janice Elaine Levich
In Memory of Beau Mann
William & Cynthia Koepcke
Tzedakah Fund
Marie Rubens
In Memory of Mary Wexler
In Memory of Michael Wexler
Herb Wexler
USY Youth and Scholarship Fund
In Memory of Louis Miller
Susan Kanner
In Memory of In Memory of Marsha
Stan & Lynne Rosen
In Memory of Boris Mann
Stan & Lynne Rosen
In Memory of Andrew “Bandi” Sabolch
Judith Feldman
In Memory of Elaine Schermerhorn
Steve Schermerhorn
Women of TEC Torah Fund
In Memory of Shirley Wojcik
Al Ungar
In Memory of Steven Seery
Holly Seery
LET’S EAT, SING, DANCE AND CELEBRATE SHABBAT TOGETHER!
Dinner at 5:30pm with Shabbat Services to follow
COMPLIMENTARY DINNER & POPSICLES ON WARREN LAWN. If you have any food allergies, please bring your own pareve meal. We are a nut-aware facility.
Bring your own blanket and lawn chairs!
Do you have any friends thinking of joining TEC? BRING THEM TOO!
• Large plastic trash bags and remember your loved ones.
MEMORIAL RECEPTION
Services offered by Women of TEC Mitzvah Committee
What to Expect
We will be at your house a day or two before the funeral, or as time permits, for planning and any questions. We will arrive at your house half hour to one hour before you leave for the cemetery to receive any last-minute instructions. Our volunteers will be there to accept all deliveries and complete the set-up.
We will provide:
• Handwashing station to be set up outside, in front of the door, including water pitcher, paper towels, TV tray and trash bag
• Hard-boiled eggs (12)
• Challah, wine and mini wine cups
• Large and small paper plates, napkins, and cutlery
• Hot and cold cups
• Ice cubes in a cooler
• Large coffee maker, coffee, tea bags
• Sugar, sweeteners, mocha mix
Family provides:
• Tablecloth, serving platters and utensils
• Cold drinks, water bottles
• Folding chairs
Have the deli/bakery deliver:
• Platters of food, bread, salads, cakes, etc.
Special Instructions for the deli/bakery:
• Be sure to schedule these items to be delivered at the same time the funeral is scheduled to begin.
• Remind them not to mix meat and dairy on the same platter.
To ask questions or make arrangements
Contact the Temple Office at 805-497-6891 or inquire via email at Shiva@templeetzchaim.org
After hours, please contact Roni Rosen at 818-585-9449
