ETZetera May 2026 FINAL

THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF

TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM

M AY 2 0 2 6

ISSUE 5

Inside This Issue

PAGE 3 Passover Schedule of Services

PAGE 18 PAGE 19 Spring Boutique!

Learn More About Samech for 65+

Contents 4

Letters From Our Leaders

Clergy

6

TEC Education

Rabbi Ari Averbach

8

TEC Community

10

B’nai Mitzvah and Simchas

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TEC Tributes

12

May Calendar

Staff

13

Birthdays and Anniversaries

Early Childhood Education Director Debbie Blumenthal

14

Tributes

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Upcoming Events

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Kids’ Corner

22 Memorial Receptions Available

Hazzan Noam Fields-Meyer Gould Chaplain Benny Sommerfeld Rabbi Emeritus Richard Spiegel

Executive Director Cindy Goldberg 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

23 Memorial Plaques & Digital Memorial Library

Musical Director Mariano Dugatkin

23 Hearing Assistance Network Support Our Community: 23 Small Business Highlights

Board of Trustees President Felicia Toporoff

Vice President Dan Lubetkin Immediate Past President Eric Feigenbaum

WANT TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS? Space is available in our Etzetera.

If you are interested in placing an ad, please send an email to: communications@templeetzchaim.org

Treasurer Arnie Blitstein Secretary Brianna Abrams Trustee, Bingo Michael Roberts Trustee, Building and Grounds Steve Plotkin Trustee, Early Childhood Education Josh Atlas Trustee, Endowment Jeff Landau Trustee, Financial Consideration Neal Arons Trustee, Inclusion Paula Lefko Trustee, Membership, Sarica Klein Trustee, Personnel & Legal Affairs Josh Hopstone Trustee, Programming Evan Robichaud

Join TEC on Social Media!

Trustee, Religion and Worship Cheryl Math

Stay up-to-date with community events, news and happenings. Follow us on your favorite social platform.

President, Women of TEC Phyllis Dankberg & Elissa Lazarus

Search for @templeetzchaim across all platforms. On Facebook search for Temple Etz Chaim as well as Temple Etz Chaim Preschool.

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

Past President, Board Member Sherri Finn-Werber Past President, Board Member Gary Katz Past President, Board Member Myles Simpson Past President, Board Member Marshall Scherr Past President, Board Member Shari Mark Past President, Board Member Wendy Margolis

Tuesday, May 5, 2026

www.templeetzchaim.org

May 2026 | Iyar - Sivan, 5786

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Letters from Our Leaders Rabbi Ari Averbach

rabbiaverbach@templeetzchaim.org

If you wanted to, you could read the Torah as a work of misogyny.

It isn’t that difficult to do, really. For as far back as we can trace, our sacred scripture has been used to denigrate all sorts of people who were considered other. One of my ongoing projects is to re-read the words of our Bible, trying to understand what they truly mean. What they probably meant way back then, and what they could mean today. And it has been eye-opening.

The undisputed greatest leader from the Book of Judges is Deborah. Yael is in the pantheon of brave and cunning heroes.

Miriam and Hulda are prophets; Rebecca understands God’s mission more than her husband; Hannah is perhaps the first biblical character to engage in silent prayer. The list continues of often-overlooked iconoclasts who deserve more attention.

In a strange section of the Book of Leviticus, the common

interpretation is for women to feel inferior for the fact that they bear children. In studying it this year, I found that the Medieval understanding that still lingers today is not quite right. The Torah, in its own antiquated way, is actually honoring mothers at the most crucial moment in their lives.

To honor that idea this year, we invited young moms to read that very section of the Torah, in an act of reclaiming a beautiful biblical notion that had been twisted over the millennia. And it’s not unusual, on any other given Shabbat, that a majority of our Torah reading is done by women in the community.

As we get closer to Mother’s Day, I hope we can continue to reread our sacred literature that has been (or should be) a perennial reminder of the integral role women have played in leadership positions from the very beginning.

Noam Fields-Meyer Gould, Hazzan Noam@templeetzchaim.org

Passover has come and gone, and I’m still smiling. There is something about gathering for a musical, celebratory seder — keeping the night moving, filling it with song — that reminds me why I love this community. Thank you to everyone who joined us.

course, Temple Etz Chaim. Each community gave me something different: a melody, a question, a way of sitting with a text. But I don’t think my experience is so unusual. Most of us can trace a map of places and people who handed us something we’re still carrying.

Now we’re in the counting of the Omer, that in-between stretch connecting Passover to Shavuot. And as Shavuot approaches, I find myself thinking about learning — and I’d invite you to do the same.

That’s the heart of what Shavuot celebrates. The word Torah comes from the root meaning to teach, to instruct — it is not a destination but a direction. Being Jewish is a commitment to lifelong learning, and that learning has never happened alone.

Where did your Jewish life take shape? For me it was Pressman Academy, Milken, Camp Ramah, Beth Am, Ikar — and of

As we approach the holiday, I’d love to hear: who taught you?

What have you carried?

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May 2026 | Iyar - Sivan, 5786

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Felicia Toporoff, President ftoporoff@templeetzchaim.org

May is such a busy time of the year in everyone’s lives. We plan our summer vacations, attend graduations, and plan for the end of the school year for many of our kids. May is also an extremely busy time of the year for our temple.

Every year, one half of the Board of Trustees face the end of their term. Some stay on the Board in other roles. Other cycle off and resume their role as congregant. As a temple leader, I am so thankful for the time and effort each one of our lay leaders has given to make our temple more inviting, more welcoming, and run more efficiently. Being on the Board of Trustees is a serious time commitment, and we are so lucky to have as many talented people as possible among our congregation who want to serve for the betterment of our community. Those cycling off the Board are busy finishing up tasks and goals and preparing for the transition to a new Trustee who will take the baton from them. The slate for the 2026-2028 Board of Trustees is being presented to the

congregation at our Congregational Meeting scheduled for June 14, 2026.

During this meeting we will also be presenting our budget for the 26/27 Fiscal Year. Currently, we are working on finalizing projections and numbers to present to the Board at the May 27, 2026 Board meeting for its approval. We are working hard to develop a budget that meets the needs of the entire organization in a fiscally prudent and responsible manner, meeting with each Department and scrutinizing their individual budgets.

We hope you will attend the Board of Trustees meeting in May to hear our budget presentation to the Board before it goes to the greater congregation for approval. Your participation in the process is crucial to ensure that we haven’t missed anything of importance to the greater community. It is our hope that this process is as transparent as possible. Thank you all for your care and commitment to our temple and our mutual desire that it will continue to thrive for years to come!

Benny Sommerfeld, Chaplain benny@templeetzchaim.org

Memorial Day is approaching, and the official BBQ season is starting. Graduation and summer camps are around the corner.

This year has gone fast, and nothing seems to slow it down. I am organizing a new initiative called Samech ( , numeric value = 60 ) which is directed for the 60+ members in our community.

We are planning to meet bi-monthly and to connect, learn, and have fun. The idea is to enrich your lives with events and activities catered to your lifestage, with the intention to enrich your membership experience at TEC. Our first get-together is on May 8 for a Shabbat dinner. You will have an opportunity to socialize, “kibbitz” and tell us about what you would like to see happen. We have plans for events, but we want to involve you in the process when planning our agenda. You can scan the QR code below and RSVP for the event, the cost is $36 for dinner.

www.templeetzchaim.org

On a spiritual note, we are approaching the pilgrimage festival of Shavuot. Three times a year we are obligated to come to the Temple to sacrifice animals for our sins. Luckily, we don’t have sacrifices anymore but instead we have prayers. We are having a special study program at TEC in preparation for receiving the 10 commandments. Tradition has it that we eat dairy on Shavuot so you can load up on calories without guilt, (if you are not lactose intolerant). Three years ago, I was in Jerusalem on this special holiday. The city distributed a walking map on all the different lectures that were available throughout the night.

The study sessions culminate with a walk to the prayer plaza where thousands of worshippers were awaiting the sunrise. It was quite spectacular event with people everywhere coming together to receive the Torah again. I hope to see you in Shul.

May 2026 | Iyar - Sivan, 5786

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TEC Education Debbie Blumenthal, Early Education Director debbieb@templeetzchaim.org

The month of May is off to a joyful and meaningful start in our Early childhood Education Program. We begin with a full week of Teacher Appreciation celebrations, lovingly sponsored by our Parents of Temple Etz Chaim (PTEC). Throughout the week, our teachers will be treated to delicious breakfasts and lunches, beautiful flowers, and thoughtful gestures of gratitude.

It is a wonderful opportunity to recognize the dedication, care, and energy our staff brings to the children every day.

Also, during the first week of May, our Intermediate and TK classes will take their graduation photos, complete with caps and gowns. It’s hard to believe that graduation is just around the corner, and this milestone always brings a mix of excitement and pride.

Our TK class will enjoy their final field trip of the year on Tuesday, May 19th, with a visit to the City of Thousand Oaks Public Works Open House. This outing has consistently been a

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rich and engaging learning experience, giving children a behindthe-scenes look at how their community functions.

On Friday, May 22nd, the school will come together to celebrate Shavuot. Families are invited to a special service led by Mr. Jeffrey where we will honor the traditions such as wearing white and tasting delicious dairy foods.

Throughout the month, children will be busy preparing for graduation, practicing songs and participating in classroom activities that highlight their growth and accomplishments over the year. Our last day of school is Thursday, June 18th, 2026.

May promises to be a full, festive, and memorable month for all of us at the ECE Center.

Warmly, Debbie Blumenthal

May 2026 | Iyar - Sivan, 5786

www.templeetzchaim.org

Joyce Bronstein, Religious School Director joyce@templeetzchaim.org

We are excited to welcome new families to visit the Religious School! On May 3 and May 17 at 10:00 a.m., we will host two “Open House” events for parents interested in joining the temple and enrolling their children in our Religious School.

These gatherings are a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the many facets of our programs, meet our Clergy and Board Members, too. Parents and their children will have a chance to visit classrooms and take a tour of the school. Of course, we’ll also enjoy some bagels and cream cheese together.

Program begins in eighth grade and offers a meaningful experience during this formative time in their lives. Staying connected during these teenage years helps nurture their strong Jewish identity, as well as deepen their bonds with each other and within our synagogue community.

If you know families who may be looking for a warm, engaging Jewish community, please encourage them to join us, as we would love to meet them.

I am deeply proud of each of them. They represent the future of Judaism, and it is reassuring and inspiring to see their commitment, compassion, and sense of purpose. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the parents who have supported their children every step of the way through the years. Your love, partnership, and dedication have helped make this life cycle event truly special.

Later in the month, we will celebrate important milestones in our students’ lives. On May 20th, our seventh-grade students will participate in our Promotion ceremony. They will lead this special and creative service. These remarkable students have spent years learning, growing, and deepening their connection to Judaism, and it has been a privilege to watch their journey.

Their teachers and I are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished.

We are especially thankful that many of them will continue their Jewish education through twelfth grade. Our Confirmation

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Erev Shavuot is on May 21st, and we will have the Confirmation Ceremony of our 10th-grade students. These thoughtful and dedicated young adults have explored Judaism in rich and varied ways throughout their years in Religious School.

As always, if you have questions, ideas, or simply want to “schmooze,” my door is always open. I love talking with our TEC community.

Stop by and say hi...

L’hitraot, Joyce Bronstein

May 2026 | Iyar - Sivan, 5786

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TEC Community Phyllis Dankberg & Elissa Lazarus, Co-President, Women of TEC What’s your Game? Come and join the Women of TEC on Game Day Sunday, May 3rd at 12pm. We will play, snack and schmooze.

As the Co- President of WOTEC I have the opportunity to participate in Confirmation, where the Women of TEC and Men’s Club jointly present a gift to the Confirmands. This is one of the highlights of the year hearing the inspirational stories of what their Judaism means to them, and it is truly an honor

to participate. Women of TEC is proud to support this amazing group of our best! Hopefully I’ll see you there on May 21st.

As the current calendar year winds down, as we look ahead we are thinking of who will assume what rolls for next year, and also planning fun and interesting events. If you would like to participate on our board we have a place for you.

Contact me and we can discuss how you can offer your talents to the Women of TEC.

elazarus@templeetzchaim.org | phyllis@templeetzchaim.org.

Pam Friedman, Trustee, Social Action We are starting the second month of our exciting Recycle Beyond the Bag program. So many of you are participating in the program, it’s fantastic.

We have collected close to 30 lbs. in just one month. I know it’s hard to believe. We are doing great. Keep dropping off your plastic bags, zip lock bags, bread bags, dry cleaning bags, bubble wrap and any other plastic that’s on the list. We will reach 40 lbs. in no time. The best thing to remember is that by working together we are all keeping plastic out of the landfill. That’s it for now.

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May 2026 | Iyar - Sivan, 5786

www.templeetzchaim.org

Mark Goldstein, President, Men’s Club Hi Everyone! With Passover and Purim behind us we look forward to the summer. We will soon announce havdallah hikes to enjoy the summer sunsets together.

This past month, Men’s Club members distributed Holocaust memorial candles for lighting on Yom HaShoah as part of FJMC’s Yellow Candle Program. We hope you lit the candle and used the opportunity to commemorate the somber day. Please make a donation so that Men’s Club can continue to provide this important service.

Thank you to everyone who participated in the Men’s Club/WoTEC Shabbat. We appreciate the efforts of Steve Friedman and Cyndy Koepcke in organizing the services.

We’re continuing regular, monthly Men’s Night Out meet-ups. The Fifth Wednesday Men’s Night Out at Naughty Pine Brewing Co. in Westlake Village will be Wednesday, May 13 from 7pm–9pm. Come for a few minutes or all two hours. It’s a good opportunity to meet other men from TEC. New Men’s Club TEC Cycling Club forming. Events to be announced.

Please email if you’re interested. Get ready to roll!

We welcome your participation in organizing, leading or assisting in these and other programs. All are welcome to Men’s Club Board Meetings typically held the third Tuesday of the month at 7 pm with the next meeting set for May 19.

Antisemitism And You

The following is an abbreviated version of a drash provided by Mark Goldstein, President of Men’s Club, during Men’s Club/Women of TEC Shabbat on April 3, 2026.

This shabbat occurs during Passover. As we all know, Passover commemorates the freedom of the Israelites, the Jewish people, from slavery in Egypt under Pharoah. Many modern haggadot direct us to not only feel as if we were slaves but to consider our current personal bondage, such as spending undo time on less important things or inaction that hinders us from living our best lives. But this year, many of us are burdened by and feel the pain inflicted by external forces negatively impacting our wellbeing. Unlike the single focus of pharaoh, it is a greater, larger, scourge. This pain we feel is the result of antisemitism. Antisemitism that seems to be all around us.

Since Oct. 7, 2023, hateful actions against Jews have been increasing at a tremendous rate. Too often we hear about swastikas on buildings and anti-Jewish name calling and bullying at parks and schools in our backyard.

So, what can we do? The problem of antisemitism is pervasive and debilitating. It’s such a large burden. How can we shake it? What can you do? FJMC, the international organization supporting Men’s Clubs worldwide, provides some answers and guidance. FJMC is partnering with the ADL. ADL has as its longstanding mission to stop antisemitism and secure justice and fair treatment to all. I recently attended ADL’s Never Is Now Summit in New York City. Over 4,000 from business, education, entertainment, government, religion and advocacy attended to confront the rising tide of antisemitism and hate. The programming offered analysis of current threats and tangible strategies for action on campuses, in communities, and across industries.

Among the most compelling moments was the recognition of Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots, with the 2026 ADL Changemaker Award as founder of the Blue Square Initiative to combat antisemitism globally and Richard Dickson of Gap Inc. www.templeetzchaim.org

with the 2026 ADL Courage Against Hate Award representing the growing role of corporate leadership in shaping cultural accountability and standing firmly against hate. The struggles and support of students was a focus of Adam Lehman, president and CEO of Hillel International. Over 60 Hillel student leaders from around the world and BBYO highschoolers from across the country attended to become empowered.

The conference provided examples for action, from grassroots organizing to high-level corporate engagement, the message was clear: silence is no longer a choice.

ADL, StandWithUs and other organizations provide support, education and tools to empower and help us. For educational materials and guidance on addressing and responding to antisemitic acts refer to the following: ADL offers multiple programs for middle, high school and college students as well as teacher lesson plans and other guidance. Visit www.adl.org/about/education. To learn more about responding to antisemitism, ADL has a program called Kulanu available to TEC members. Email Mark Goldstein for more information.

StandWithUs provides educational pamphlets and information at standwithus.com/library.

It is important to report hateful incidents you or your family members experience at work, at school and in public settings. This allows tracking and, when appropriate, taking actions in response. Report antisemitic and other hateful occurrences at: ADL www.adl.org and StandWithUs standwithus.com/report.

By being active in our community and taking action, you can make things happen for yourself and others. There is hope.

May 2026 | Iyar - Sivan, 5786

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B’nai Mitzvah

Ayla Sklar

May 2

Hi, my name is Ayla Sklar and I am in the seventh grade at Colina Middle School. I love hanging out with my friends and binge-watching Stranger Things. Thank you for all the support I’ve received from my friends and family during this Bat Mitzvah preparation time, and thank you to all of my family that will be coming in town for the occasion.

Judah Sklar

May 2

Hi, my name is Judah Sklar and I am in the seventh grade at Colina Middle School. I enjoy football, baseball and track and I love hanging out with my friends and riding bikes. Thank you to my friends and family for their support during this time of my Bar Mitzvah study and thank you to all my family members that will be coming in town for the occasion.

Emmet Pugh

May 9

Shabbat Shalom. My name is Emmet and I am in 7th grade. I go to Bridges Charter school and I like it. When I am not at Temple, I am reading, playing video games, and hanging out with my brother and friends. I love Legend of Zelda and ONE PIECE, and LEGO. Thank you to my teachers and tutors Ellen, Hazzan Noam and Rabbi Ari for helping me prepare for this. Thank you to my family and friends for all their support. I hope you join me this weekend as I read Torah!

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May 2026 | Iyar - Sivan, 5786

www.templeetzchaim.org

Alana Silverstein

May 16

Hi, my name is AJ Silverstein, I’m a seventh grader at Chaparral Middle School.

My favorite classes at school are Theatre Arts. Math, and History. In my free time I’m an avid soccer player. I also play flag football, cheer, and volleyball. I have been a part of TEC since I was 2 years old, where I met some of my closest friends. When I’m not at TEC you will find me playing a sport or hanging out with my friends. I’d like to thank Rabbi Ari, Hazzan Noam, Joyce Bronstein and all my Religious School teachers. Special thank you to my tutors Betty Zonshine and Rivka Moscovitch, I couldn’t have done this without your guidance. Most importantly I’d like to thank my mom, dad, and sister Hannah for their love and support in my journey to becoming a Bat Mitzvah. I look forward to celebrating this milestone surrounded by my family and friends. Shabbat Shalom!

Ben Hopstone

May 30

Hi! My name is Ben Hopstone, and I am in seventh grade at Colina Middle School. I have attended TEC Religious School since the first grade and spent the past three summers at Camp Ramah. I enjoy playing sports, hiking, camping, traveling, playing chess, playing video games, and watching movies. I would like to thank my parents, my Religious School teachers, my tutors Betty Zonshine and Rifka Moscovitch, Joyce Bronstein, Rabbi Ari, and Hazzan Noam for helping me in my Bar Mitzvah studies. I would also like to thank my sister Natalie for being my #1 fan. As I become a Bar Mitzvah, I look forward to celebrating with my family, friends, and the TEC community.

Daniel Asher Sharon & Benjamin Ezra Sharon Born April 2, 2026

Parents: Sydney and Brit Sharon Siblings: Nathan, Thea, and Zoe Grandparents: Dana and Dany Sharon & Briar and Jay Grossman

James David Levine

Great-Grandparents: Joan Grossman and Carol-Ann Flicker

Born April 3, 2026

Parents: Morgan and Noah Levine Grandparents: Debra and Jay Levine & Molly and Scott Miller

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May 2026 | Iyar - Sivan, 5786

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Dates to Remember

May SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THU

FRI

SAT

1

2 Ayla & Judah Sklar B’nai Mitzvah

3

WOTEC Game Day

10

4

5

Lag BaOmer

6

7

8

9 Emmet Pugh Bar Mitzvah

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12

13

14

15

16 Alana Silverstein Bat Mitzvah

17

24

18

25

Memorial Day

19

Feed the Hungry Book Club via Zoom

26

20

21

27

28

Board Meeting

22

23

29

30

Shavuot

Benjamin Hopstone Bar Mitzvah

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Men’s Club Brunch

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May 2026 | Iyar - Sivan, 5786

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Birthdays & Anniversaries 1 Shaye Amato Ruby Freund Lawrence Grosslight Ayla Sklar Judah Sklar Judith Sneed 2 Steven Golove John Mc Cauley Jackson Tucker Jake Wellen 3 Brian Lacy Mark Scop 4 Arielle Amato Richard Eidman Sydney Sharon 5 Arnie Blitstein Drew Cowan Gabriel Korn Sharon Pevsner Eric Shechter Alana Silverstein Jake Simowitz David Weiss 6 Eden Lazarus 7 Carl Friedlander Ian Gold Tali Lefko Ron Mark Romi Resnik Megan Welch 8 Kathryn Bronstein Sharon Meiselman Cyrus Mizrahi Harvey Moskowitz Jaclyn Plotkin 9 Leah Israel Spencer Morris Kimi Wohl 10 Jessica Anderson Heather Friedman Logan Gelfound Jeanna Gindi Jennifer Golove Jacob Tobias Annie Wolfson Lynne Zuckerman 11 Erin Bordofsky Rebecca Gindi Lane Nussbaum Leon Sassoon Kyle Tucker www.templeetzchaim.org

12 Jeremy Garelik Noa Ghozland Tatyana Gutman Paul Munowitch Riley Tucker 13 Rachel Axelrad Debra Byer Jason Fitch Alan Horwitz Hillary Natlin Ethan Rinkov Josh Rudman Robert Sarto Eli Tischler 14 Brianna Brownstein Sarah Golden Devora Hettena Elisha Manzur Irving Weiss 15 Israel Bronstein Max Cohan Adam McCullough David Pevsner Josh Yukelson 16 Wesley Cohen Anita Heber Neir Kroytoro Jeff Landau Michele Salant Kenneth Saul 17 Paige Esqueda Lillian Levine Alexa Mizrahi Sol Mizrahi Gabrielle Polkes Rachelle Varley 18 Nicole Blitstein M. Brian Goodkin Paula Lefko Samuel Lyons Dylan Sklar Benjamin Slomowitz 19 Shailee Hoffmann Gilbert Kessler Jacqueline Mansky Brian Rubin Joshua Spielberg 20 Ronald Freeman Aaron Heirshberg Jenna Marx Marilynn Musiker Roth 21 Bryan Breverman Penelope Mauge Matan Nussbaum

22 Michael Bayewitch Dennis Bernstein Michael Druyen Kenny Ellis Oni Lazarus Brittany Rosen 23 Finley Freedman Micah Goss Ariana Mendelson Ann Moore-Ross Shai Nussbaum Emma Riss Amy Shipow Irma Sommerfeld 24 Judy Koutal 25 Doina Borla Emmy Goodkin Lila Goodkin Lennon Scharf Aimee Weber David Werner 26 Neil Bordofsky Elijah Lubetkin 27 Kenley Booth Jack Gindi Jessica Simpson Cora Sklar Aaron Zucherman 28 Joanna Greenbaum Sophie Simpson Ryan Sterling Richard Quodomine 29 David Cohan Aami Gutman Jonathan Hops Andy Lever Andrew Moore Josh Wohl 30 Matthew Garelik Benjamin Hopstone Matthew Jacobs Aria McCullough Ron Stein Orly Weinstock Daniel Weiss Declan Winthrop Betty Zonshine 31 Meredith Druyen Judy Gindi Eitan Weber Mayzie Werner

May 2026 | Iyar - Sivan, 5786

May 1 Jason & Jessica Anderson 2 Harold & Sharon Seiden 4 Adam & Emily Robinson 5 Ronald & Elizabeth Groden 7 Mark & Inez Zucherman 16 Joel & Laurie Volk 18 Timothy & Susan Mellon 19 Mike & Jackie Wellen 19 Daniel & Amanda Sissman 20 Howard & Jessica Simpson Mike & Fran Curtis 21 Lawrence & Gabriele Bugaisky 22 Darren & Nili Perlmutter Charles & Nancy Schwager 23 David & Lauren Cohen Brian & Kimberly Lovi 27 Andrew & Brittany Booth GiL & Cindy Goldberg Jay & Debra Levine Alik Shulman & Yevgeniya Belenkaya-Shulman 28 Ross & Robin Berman Jared & Jackie Weintraub 29 Chad & Lorie Hampton Jordan & Briana Roberts David & Tova Weinstock 30 Josh & Lacey Yukelson 31 Daniel & Susan Kane

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Tributes Capital Campaign

In Memory of Sidney Liberman Jeff & Sheri Shoenwald

Community Garden and Bird Sanctuary In Memory of Reba Stelman Myrna Stelman In Memory of Helena Dain Cherie Wrigley

Early Childhood Education Fund

In Appreciation of the loving teaching and staff at the TEC Prechool and Day Care Patti Wolfson & Dennis Bernstein In Memory of Sidney Liberman Scott & Debbie Blumenthal In Memory of George Garabedian In Memory of Hilda Garabedian Melinda Garabedian In Memory of Bonnie Malchicoff Sheldon Malchicoff In Honor ofthe Births of Daniel and Benjamin Sharon In Honor of the Birth of James David Levine Scott & Debbie Blumenthal Bruce B. Cohen

Elisa Feldman Memorial Religious School Scholarship Fund

In Honor of the Birth of Baby Carmona In Honor of the Birth of Jonah Emerson Fox In Memory of Sidney Liberman In Memory of Karen Cashen In Memory of Steven Somogyi In Memory of Libby Penner Frank In Memory of Gary Feldman In Memory of Dr. Judith Margolis In Honor of the Birth of the Gero’s Grandchild Les & Debbie Feldman In Memory of Sidney Liberman Nomi Freed

In Memory of Herb Wexler Myra Matlin

In Memory of Edward Bernstein Shari Mark

In Memory of Dr. Judith Margolis Jay & Debra Levine

In Appreciation of Rabbi Averbach, Thank you on behalf of the Borenstein family. The ceremony was perfect.

Bernard & Paula Borenstein

Lipnick RSSF

In Memory of June Cher Mark Cher

In Memory of Sadie Alperson Bonnie Garfinkel

In Memory of Yetta Edelstein Judi Gill

In Memory of Stanley Klein Steven Gilbard

Men’s Club

In Appreciation of Rabbi Averbach for Officiating Herb Wexler’s Funeral Friedman Family

In Honor of Yom HaShoah Yellow Candle Project Stan & Lynne Rosen In Honor of Yom HaShoah Yellow Candle Project Nomi Freed In Honor of Yom HaShoah Yellow Candle Project George & Jeanne Mitchell In Honor of Yom HaShoah Yellow Candle Project Ronald & Rebecca Lascoe In Honor of Myles Simpson’s Birthday Joyce Edelson

Men’s Club Silverstein Humanitarian Fund

In Memory of Lori Pullan Weiss In Memory of Sarah Simpson Myles & Gail Simpson

Rabbi Averbach’s Discretionary Fund

In Honor of the Sale of Chametz Joel & Harriet Shrater In Memory of Dora Borenstein In Memory of Israel Borenstein Jeffrey Borenstein In Memory of Eileen Peisner Robert Peisner In Memory of Florence Renny Goldtich Stephanie Shipow

In Memory of Herb Wexler David & Rebeccah Schwartz In Memory of Sidney Liberman William & Cynthia Koepcke In Honor of Luke Simpson’s Bar Mitzvah Joyce Edelson In Appreciation of Rabbi Averbach for his support and kindness to Luke for his Bar Mitzvah Myles & Gail Simpson

Sandee Tischler Religious School Scholarship Fund In Memory of Abe Bass Dawne Ratzan

In Memory of Abe Ratzan Dawne Ratzan In Memory of Harvey J. Levine Dawne Ratzan

Social Action Fund

In Honor of the Birth of Jonah Emerson Fox Jay & Debra Levine In Memory of Dr. Judith Margolis Martin & Donna Lichtman In Honor of April’s TEC Feed the Hungry Myles & Gail Simpson In Memory of Judy Stockell Bonnie Rothman In Memory of Stephen Herzog Elaine Herzog In Honor of the Birth of James David Levine Jack & Judy Gindi

In Memory of Dr. Judith Margolis In Honor of the Birth of Jonah Emerson Fox Ron & Liz Groden

Temple General Fund

In Memory of Florence E. Blum In Memory of Alfred Blum Sheri Wechsler

In Memory of Dr. Judith Margolis Jan & Janice Orlowski

In Memory of Mollie Chadroff Edward Chadroff In Memory of Florence Kinsbruner Jodi Greenberg In Honor of Yom HaShoah Yellow Candle Project Robert Peisner In Memory of Raquel Saranga Rivka Moscovitch In Appreciation of Rabbi Averbach for his help and support during Ronald’s funeral Sylvia Weiss In Memory of Marilyn Cohen Seiden Harold & Sharon Seiden

In Memory of Sigmund Geltner Roberta Toporoff

In Memory of Daniel Kaffka In Memory of DellaMae Kaffka Jeffrey & Beverly Adler In Memory of Herbert James Greenberg Lawrence & Nina Wallach In Memory of Jay Shery David & Rebeccah Schwartz Jerrald & Deborah Cohen In Memory of Aghdass Harounian Safani Michael Safani In Memory of Ronnie Melrose Ross & Robin Berman In Honor of Surviving Another Tax Season!

Steven Altabef

In Memory of Dr. Judith Margolis Jeff & Sheri Shoenwald

In Memory of Myrtle Zealand In Memory of Maurice Zealand Helene Gollub

In Memory of Dr. Judith Margolis In Memory of Morris Freed Nomi Freed

In Memory of Morris Marks Kenneth Marks

In Memory of Irwin Marco Fran Curtis

In Memory of Eli Levine Barbara Kluber

In Memory of Maurice L. Fine Lila Fine Oberman

In Memory of Evelyn Peisner Robert Peisner

In Memory of Blanche Kulik Morry Kulik

In Memory of Dr. Judith Margolis Neil & Carolyn Bordoksky

In Memory of Davood Moradian Nasser Moradian

In Memory of Ernest Kovar Rita Kover

In Honor of the Sale of Chametz Larry & Judy Mayer

In Memory of Herb Wexler Joan Silver

In Memory of Albert Goldenberg Merrill Goldenberg

In Memory of Leonard Mendel In Memory of Roberta Mendel Valerie Knight In Memory of Albert Kaye Patricia Kaye

Jotkowitz Camp Ramah Scholarship Fund

In Honor of the Sale of Chametz Irwin & Ilene Barney

In Appreciation of Rabbi Averbach Sidney & Sheryl Gutmann

Tzedakah Fund

In Memory of Sidney Benjamin Lisa Benjamin

In Memory of Sidney Liberman Richard Engler & Ellen Zucker

Religious School

Women of TEC

In Appreciation of Rabbi Averbach Nomi Freed

In Memory of Lillian Fleishman Sandra Levy

In Honor of Colin & Esther Pullan’s 55th Anniversary Duncan & Shari Forsythe

In Memory of Nancee Maze In Memory of Jerry Maze Mark & Heidi Birnbaum

In Honor of the Sale of Chametz Steven & Pamela Friedman

In Memory of Raquel Saranga Rivka Moscovitch

In Appreciation of the Mitzvah Committee for helping to set up our home after Ronald’s funeral Sylvia Weiss

In Memory of Jack Siegel Judith Feldman

Kiddush Fund

In Honor of the Birth of Noah Matan Carmona In Honor of the Birth of Jonah Emerson Fox In Memory of Herb Wexler William & Cynthia Koepcke

In Memory of Joseph Belzer Yaffa Rosemary Tobin

In Memory of Herb Wexler, who loved Shabbat lunches Larry & Judy Mayer

In Memory of Kerry Jolna In Memory of Elsie Mitchell George Mitchell

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In Memory of Harry Eisenoff Larry Joshua

Ritual Fund

In Memory of Herb Wexler Patricia Kaye

In Memory of June Cher The OLDTIMERS Lunch Bunch Ladies

Women of TEC Scholarship Fund In Memory of Beatrice Forman Harriet Shrater

In Memory of Blanche Chak David & Rebeccah Schwartz

May 2026 | Iyar - Sivan, 5786

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May 2026 | Iyar - Sivan, 5786

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Lag Ba’Omer

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The Mitzvah Committee is here to help... 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:

Family provides:

• 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 • Large plastic trash bags

• 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

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May 2026 | Iyar - Sivan, 5786

www.templeetzchaim.org

TEC Has a Hearing TEC Has a Hearing Assistance Network Assistance Network

Improve your hearing when Improve your hearing when being in services, using your being in services, using own smartphone and your own smartphone and or earbuds, headphones, earbuds, headphones, or compatible hearing aids. compatible hearing aids.

To Access the network, do the following: To Access the network, do the following: 1.

Download the ListenWIFI app your app store or scan 1. from Download the ListenWIFI app the QR code from your app store or scan the QRyou code 2. When arrive at TEC, go to your settings and togo Wi-Fi 2. phone When you arrive at go TEC, to your connections.

Scroll phone settings and down go to your Wi-Filist and select TEC Listen Everywhere connections.

Scroll down your list and select TECis: Listen Everywhere 3. Password TEC24680!

3. Join Password is: TEC24680!

4. the network (Note: you will be to an internal Wi-Fi 4. connected Join the network (Note: you will be system, notto toan the internet) connected internal Wi-Fi system, not to the internet) 5. Open the ListenWIFI app 5.

Open the ListenWIFI 6. If permission is asked app by app, please "Allow" 6. answer If permission is asked by app, please answer 7. Click on"Allow" the venue scan button 7. Click Click on on the the top venue scanof button 8. button the screen. connected tothe thescreen.

8. You Clickare on now the top button of hearing network.

Please You are assistance now connected to the adjust volume on your phone to hearingthe assistance network.

Please control thevolume sound in adjust the onyour yourears. phone to control the sound in your ears.

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May 2026 | Iyar - Sivan, 5786

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Dental treatment from a compassionate team dedicated to quality and comfort.

Our goal is to assist each patient in achieving and maintaining long-term oral health and a beautiful smile.

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