beth jacob congregation annual dinner · applbaums, and includes same-day, round-trip airfare,...

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2015, 5:00PMOAKLAND, CALIFORNIA

Catalog 2015

ANNUAL DINNERSOIREE

BETH JACOB CONGREGATION

120 Years 120 Years

ii iii

From the Auction Chairs

Fellow Beth Jacobians,

The year was 1893. The first Ferris wheel was built, Oakland’s population crossed 50,000, and the city began enforcing speed limits for horse-drawn carriages. Meanwhile, a group of 40 Jewish families came together to found Beth Jacob, a new orthodox shul at the corner of Ninth and Castro streets in downtown Oakland. For over 120 years, Beth Jacob has been a pillar of the East Bay Jewish community, and it continues to grow and thrive. Tonight, we gather to celebrate both the history and future of this great congregation—not with speeches, but rather in the grand Oakland tradition of eating, drinking, and socializing with friends. Also, by giving Tzedakah (mostly for the opportunity to eat, drink, and socialize some more).

Beth Jacob’s strength has always been its community. And while it may take a village to raise a child, it certainly takes a small army to put on the Annual Dinner. We therefore would like thank, glorify, and praise these great volunteers (in no particular order):

RABBI ALBERT AND RABBI FOX: Our spiritual and organizational leaders, for their counsel, problem-solving, and willingness to field our questions and kvetching. They handled everything from kashrut to furniture.

THE VARIOUS AND EVER-ROTATING BJC OFFICE STAFF: Elaine was our one constant in the BJC office throughout the entire planning process; she and the other staff provided necessary behind-the-scenes office support, and for that we remain grateful.

RUDI BROOKS: For keeping our second home neat, tidy, and prepared.

DEBORAH SOSEBEE AND MELONY BRAVMANN: Our auction co-chairs, who compiled all the auction offerings, put together this booklet, handled all bid sheets, and coordinated all the items and events.

ADREA GERBER AND HARRIET SCHIFFER SCOTT: For managing all the member donations to the auction—basically for working with, nagging, and providing creative ideas to the entire congregation.

TOVA BERNSTEIN: For handling all business solicitations.

KEN BRAVMANN: For greatly improving the software behind how auction donations were processed. While this work was behind the scenes, it greatly improved the lives of our auction and donations chairs.

OAKLAND KOSHER FOODS: For preparing and serving all the delicious food we consume tonight.

SEMIFREDDIS: For donating the bread that accompanies dinner.

JENNIFER BLUMENFELD: Our webmaster and crack IT expert, for making the dinner webpage both attractive and functional.

BONNIE CARASSO AND ELKE BARTER: For their vision and graphic design expertise, including the dinner logo, branding, and invitations.

MIRIAM BARRERE, KIRSTEN BARRERE, AND PAM MILLER: Our decorations co-chairs, who will transform our BJC microcosm into an epic Oaklandish macrocosm.

REBECCA ASTRACHAN: For coordinating all the RSVP’s, reaching out to some of our members to encourage attendance, and for setting up the bar so that Ben and his team could keep the beverages flowing all night.

JACK ZIMMERMAN: For being the master of odd jobs, from stuffing and mailing invitations to running numerous errands.

BEN MARCUS AND HIS BARTENDING TEAM: For running the bar and ensuring that the entire congregation will be well-watered.

JOEL ACKERMAN AND STEPHANIE MAMANE: For providing Ben with the tools (OK, the drinks) to keep the bar fully stocked.

MARSHALL SCHWARTZ: For arranging the license to allow us to serve the delicious libations, legally.

ZEV RUBENSTEIN: For emceeing the evening and keeping things lively.

DAVID GLUCK: Our audio department, for putting together a musical tour of Oakland.

DAN LEVIN: Our AV-department, for ensuring that you can hear both Zev and MC Hammer.

TEEN VOLUNTEERS: Our younger congregants who will make sure you get in the door, know where to sit, and get fed.

RAY EDELMAN: For soliciting underwriters.

UNDERWRITERS: For providing the generous funds that make this evening possible.

For anyone that we forgot to mention (or who generously volunteered after this booklet went to print), we are truly sorry. We thank you for all your hard work in making this evening’s dinner a success! To all of them, and to all of you, we say: thank you!

What do you say to a man (or woman) upon reaching 120? HAVE A GREAT DAY!

What do you say to BJC on the occasion of its 120th birthday? HERE’S TO 120 MORE WONDERFUL AND GLORIOUS YEARS!

Can’t touch this,

JESSICA BLAZER AND MICHAEL GERBER

120 Years 120 Years

iv v

Evening Schedule

5:00 pm

MINCHA

5:00-6:30 pm

HORS D’OEUVRES AND OPEN BAR

SILENT AUCTION

BASKET AUCTION TICKET SALES

COVENANT DINNER RAFFLE SALES

6:30 pm

SILENT AUCTION TABLES CLOSE

MAARIV

PROCEED TO DINNER

6:30 – 8:30 pm

DINNER

REMARKS FROM THE DINNER CHAIRS AND PRESIDENT

LIVE AUCTION

PADDLE ITEMS

BASKET AUCTION AND COVENANT DINNER

RAFFLE RESULTS

DESSERT & COFFEE

Contents

From the Auction Chairs ....................................................................... ii

The Complicated Stuff.......................................................................... 1

Live Auction Item: Spirited Away—An Unforgettable Dawn to Dusk Experience ..................... 2

You Can’t Buy These in Stores!! ................................................................ 3

Special Raffle: Win Dinner for Six at Covenant Winery .......................................... 4

Paddle Items to Support Beth Jacob ............................................................ 5

Stimulus Package .............................................................................. 5

Handy Dandy Calendar Planner ................................................................. 6

Silent Auction Items

100 - There is There There: Items for Your Home ......................................... 8

200 - Steppin’ Out in Oakland and Beyond ................................................ 10

300 – Oakland is Community: Services Provided ........................................... 11

400 – Gastronomical Delights ............................................................ 13

500 – Operation Oakland: Your Social Calendar ........................................... 15

1

120 Years120 Years

vi

The Complicated Stuff

Bid Sheet Tutorial

Welcome to the Bid Sheet Tutorial. In this lesson, you will learn how to score the event of your dreams, maximize your potential, and bring about world peace. If you have questions, contact Deborah Sosebee or Melony Bravmann.

First, READ THE EVENT DESCRIPTION so you know how many slots are available. The slots are awarded to the highest bidders downward, and, if there are multiple bids at the same price, to the first bidders signed up at that price. In the example below—an event that can accommodate eight people—the two slots at the highest bid ($70) got in, as did the four slots at the middle bid ($60), and then only the first two at the cheapest bid ($50) (see highlighted names).

The Foxes, seeing that the Friedmans and Sosebees were taking up four slots, realized that they had to increase their bid to at least $60 in order to be in the top eight. (This action forced a Bravmann and a Blazer out of the running.)

The Zaks, feeling extremely lucky, just waited it out—this time their gamble paid off. Of note, the Friedmans DEFINITELY wanted this dinner, so they bid $70 before anyone else bid $60 to ensure they would have a slot. Also of note, there may end up being multiple bid sheets if there are not enough columns to accommodate increasing prices.

Bid Sheet Example

501WONDERFUL FOOD WONDERFUL PEOPLECome dine with these phenomenal chefs. Your senses will be amazed. For eight adults. Minimum bid $50. Raise $10.

$50 $60 $701 ZAK SOSEBEE FRIEDMAN

2 ZAK SOSEBEE FRIEDMAN

3 Bravmann FOX

4 Blazer FOX

5 Fox

6 Fox

7 Albert

8 Albert

P.S.If you can’t attend the dinner, find yourself a BIDDING BUDDY so you don’t miss out on all the wonderful offerings.

120 Years 120 Years

2 3

You Can’t Buy These in Stores!!

This year, three fantastic prizes are being sold in a Basket Auction. So, you may be wondering:

What is a Basket Auction, and how does it work?

In our Basket Auction, there will be several items on a table, each with a basket in front of it. You get to choose which item(s) you want to win by buying tickets and placing them in the basket(s) of your choosing. You may buy as many tickets as you want and place as many tickets in whichever baskets you want. When the auction closes, the baskets will be taken away, and one lucky winner’s name is drawn from each basket. Obviously, placing more tickets into any one or more baskets increases your chances of winning. Where can tickets be purchased? Tickets for the Basket Auction will be sold at the dinner when you enter the upstairs social hall. Tickets cost $50 each, or 3 tickets for $100. You may purchase as many tickets as you like; the cost for the tickets will be included in your bill.The items available in the Basket Auction are:

1) MULTIPLIER BASKET: Winner from this basket receives one ticket in each of the following three baskets

2) OGLE GOOGLE: You and three very lucky guests will spend a half day at Google headquarters in Mountain View. The excursion will include a guided tour in the computer science museum, covering the first computing machines up to current smart phones, with detailed explanations and the history and biography of the people behind it. You will also “fly” in a simulator to Jerusalem (no passports needed and you can bring a note for the Kotel), and be plied with an endless supply of snacks, drinks and coffee. If you’re lucky, this tour will coincide with the Google science fair—an internationally recognized competition for young (age 13 - 18) scientists. The science fair is the final competition in which visitors get to meet a panel of the 20 runners-up, discuss their projects and see demonstrations. This is a great opportunity to educate your kids about computer science and have fun.

3) HAJDU PETITE SIRAH: One Double Magnum of 2013 Hajdu Petite Sirah, Mendocino County, Eaglepoint Ranch. This inky purple wine is made from grapes sourced from one of California’s most famous vineyards. Look for notes of blueberries, chocolate, tar and scorched earth. One of only three bottles produced.

4) PIXAR POSTER: Pixar is at it again! This summer they will be releasing Inside Out (try to wrap your head around that!) and one lucky winner will go home tonight with a poster for that film. But not just any poster—a two-sided poster signed by director Pete Docter!

High bidder and seven adult companions will spend a day in Portland, Oregon with Yitz & Hilda Applbaum for a tour of House Spirits. Founded in 2004 in Oregon, House Spirits Distillery is a leader of America’s craft distilling movement. Its award-winning products are batch-distilled and are inspired by a passion for quality spirits and delicious cocktails. Its flavorful, innovative spirits include Aviation American Gin® (one of the fastest growing gin companies in the US), Westward Oregon Straight Malt WhiskeyTM (a favorite of many whiskey connoisseurs, including Aimee Fisher), Krogstad Festlig AquavitTM, Volstead VodkaTM, and a line of limited release small-batch spirits. This package will take place on a date mutually convenient to the buyer and the Applbaums, and includes same-day, round-trip airfare, distillery tour, sushi dinner, and maybe even a bottle or two of House Spirits products. Start thinking now about whom you’ll “spirit away.” Put together a consortium!

Minimum bid: $2,500.

Live Auction Item: Spirited Away—An Unforgettable Dawn to Dusk Experience

5

120 Years120 Years

4

Paddle Items to Support Beth Jacob

Stimulus Package

Imagine this: You can’t attend the event or find items you want to buy, but you want to support BJC. Or this: The evening is winding down and you were outbid on a couple of items. So maybe, just maybe, you’ve got a few extra dollars to spend.

For $180: HELP US BID A FOND FAREWELL AND GIVE A HUGE THANK YOU TO RABBI AKIVA, CHANI, D-ZEV, MATANYA AND NEW BABY NAIMAN as they “transition” from our community back to Israel. For $180 you will contribute to a delicious, kosher, nutritious, organic, locally-sourced, hand-made (okay, maybe we’re getting carried away here) upstairs Kiddush in their honor in true BJC style.

For $54: HELP US MAINTAIN THE SAFETY OF OUR CONGREGATION ON SHABBAT MORNINGS. We have stepped up security at BJC in light of recent events in Oakland and abroad. For $54 you can help offset the increased cost of providing excellent coverage during Shabbat davening and Kiddushes.

For $18: PROMOTE LEARNING AMONGST OUR TEENS (AND ADULTS). We are looking to stock our library with sefarim (books) specifically geared towards our teens for them to distribute and use at NCSY events, during Shavuot all-night learning, and when they have a few minutes to fill and are looking for something to read. And if we raise enough money, we’ll be able to augment our adult offerings as well!!

Thanks to several generous anonymous donors, we are able to offer a stimulus package again this year.

Under this plan, everything you spend between $100 and $200 will be covered.

• If you spend up to $100 at the auction, your bill will reflect that amount.

• If you spend $100—$199, your bill will be $100.

• If you spend $200 or more your bill will be reduced by $100.

This plan is OPTIONAL. You are welcome to avail yourself of this stimulus package. You are also welcome to pay your bill in full and leave the stimulus money in the shul’s coffers.

Special Raffle: Win Dinner for Six at Covenant Winery

This year we are raffling one of our most exclusive events—DINNER FOR SIX AT THE NEW COVENANT WINERY IN BERKELEY.

Jeff and Jodie Morgan will prepare a four-course dairy/pescetarian feast taken straight from their newest cookbook The Covenant Kitchen, Food and Wine for the New Jewish Table (Schocken/OU Press), to be released this March, 2015, while co-host Jonathan Hajdu will ensure that the meal is expertly paired with wines from Covenant. Covenant Winery is the only functioning urban kosher winery in America since Prohibition. And while they don’t really believe that there is such a thing as the “greatest” kosher wine, it’s nice to know that renowned wine critic Robert Parker has called Covenant “the greatest kosher wine on Planet Earth.” Covenant wines—even at $100/bottle—sell out quickly and are enjoyed throughout the world: from the USA to Paris and London, to Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, Canada, Mexico, South America and Australia. Additionally, there will be three signed copies of their new cookbook available to share amongst the attendees.

Tickets are $100 and only 50 tickets will be sold. Unlike the lottery, buying multiple tickets actually increases your odds of winning! The tickets are being sold on a first come/first served basis (at www.bjcdinner.org), so if there are any left, that’s where you’ll find them.

The winner will be drawn at the Beth Jacob Annual Dinner on Feb 8th. You do not have to be present to win.

Please note: Raffle tickets are not tax deductible.

120 Years 120 Years

6 7

# Event Name Event Date Time Min. Bid527 Crafting and Cocktails Tuesday, September 1 7:00 PM $20

547 Rosh Hashana Meal at the Alberts'

September 13 or 14 $125

528 Cheese With a Breeze Wednesday, September 30 7:00 PM $50

529 Sukkah Fun Thursday, October 1 6:30 PM $25

530 Shtetl Comfort Food Sunday, October 11 5:30 PM $30

531 Star Wars-a-Thon Sunday, October 18 6:00 PM $50

532 Journey to China Tea Tasting Sunday, October 25 2:00 PM $20

533 Folk Night at the Albert Home Sunday, October 25 8:00 PM $25

534 Cult Movie Night Sunday, November 1 7:30 PM $20

535 Shul of Rock Saturday, November 7 7:00 PM $30

536 East Bay Rocks! Sunday, November 8 9:00 AM $25

537 6th Annual Poker Tournament Sunday, November 8 6:30 PM $50

500 Belgian Beer, Bar Games and Belly Laughs

Saturday, November 14 7:00 PM $25

538 Exploring Potato Latkas Sunday, November 15 11:00 AM $30

539 Afternoon Tea in the British Manner

Sunday, November 15 4:00 PM $30

540 Ladies' Poker Night Saturday, November 21 7:30 PM $25

541 Babushkin Borsch Sunday, November 22 7:00 PM $50

542 Kosher Soul Food Sunday, November 29 5:30 PM $35

543 Cartoons, Macaroons & Chocolate Rangoons Redux

Saturday, December 5 8:00 PM $100

544 Persian Dinner Sunday, January 10 6:00 PM $50

545 Hot n' Crusty Sunday, January 31 11:00 AM $25

THERE IS NO PRE-SET DATE FOR THE EVENTS BELOW.

548 Faites la Fete $50

549 Shabbat With the Foxes $125

550 Shabbat Dinner in Your Home $500

TO BE DETERMINED

AUGUST

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

2016JANUARY

2015 SEPTEMBER

# Event Name Event Date Time Min. Bid501 Settlers of Catan Tournament Sunday, March 1 1:00 PM $25

502 Hockey Morning in Oakland Sunday, March 8 10:00 AM $25

503 Pinball Tournament Sunday, March 8 5:00 PM $35

504 Bagel Baking Sunday, March 15 10:00 AM $25

505 Tips and Tricks for Being Safe Online

Sunday, March 15 7:30 PM $50

506 Pinot and Paint Wednesday, March 18 7:00 PM $25

507 An Evening of Classic Comedy Sunday, March 22 7:00 PM $30

552 Mindfulness Sunday, March 22 10:00 AM $25

508 Jewish Plays Project Thursday, March 26 7:00 PM $35

509 Sunday Sole Searching Sunday, March 29 11:00 AM $35

553 Death: Italian Style Sunday, March 29, 2015 6:00 PM $36

510 A Night of Improv Sunday, April 19 7:00 PM $25

511 Financial Seminar/Brunch Sunday, April 26 11:00 AM $25

512 Ikebana Class Sunday, April 26 2:00 PM $60

513 10th Annual Beth Jacob Wine Tasting

Sunday, April 26 6:30 PM $55

514 Tres de Mayo!!! Sunday, May 3 6:00 PM $50

515 Pint Night Redux—Feeling Saucy! Sunday, May 3 7:00 PM $25

516 The Colorful Side of Classical Music

Sunday, May 10 7:00 PM $50

517 Rock-Climbing Adventure Sunday, May 17 9:30 AM $35

518 Chummus and Chamin Bar Sunday, May 17 5:30 PM $25

519 Muppets with a Menu Sunday, May 31 11:00 AM $35

551 Serious Scotch Tasting Sunday, May 31 7:00 PM $125

546 Mah Jong All Wednesdays in May 7:30 PM $25

524 South African Boerewors Bash Sunday, June 7 12:00 noon $75/fam

520 Rabbi Fox's Restaurant Sunday, June 7 5:00 PM $25

521 Bollywood Banquet Sunday, June 14 6:30 PM $50

522 Man's Cup Shabbat Lunch w/Rabbis Dardik & Rozen

Saturday, June 20 2:30 PM $200

523 Man's Cup IX Sunday, June 21 5:00 PM $100

525 New Year of Meat Sunday, August 16 5:00 PM $50

526 Some Like It Hot Sunday, August 30 5:00 PM $50

Handy Dandy Calendar Planner

2015MARCH

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

98

120 Years 120 Years

100 - There IS There There: Items for Your Home

109 LENOX CHALLAH PLATE AND KNIFEChallah plate crafted of Lenox ivory fine china accented with gold, inscribed in Hebrew with the phrase, “Blessed are You, Lord our G-d, King of the universe, Who brings forth bread from the earth.” The knife is ivory china with stainless steel and gold accents, and is inscribed in Hebrew with the phrase “Who brings forth bread from the earth.” Dishwasher safe. Donor: Michael & Adrea Gerber Donor Value: $100

110 $50 ITUNES GIFT CARDUse this iTunes Gift Card for apps, games, music, movies, TV shows, books, and more. Donor Value: $50

111 OAKLAND ATHLETICS—WORLD CHAMPS!An Oakland Athletics pennant reading “2,000,000 Million Thanks!” from 1988 when the A’s won the World Series. Go team! Donor Value: $20.

112 OAKLAND ATHLETICS—WORLD CHAMPS! A World Series pennant showing the Oakland A’s and the LA Dodgers from 1988 when the A’s won the Series. Go team! Donor Value: $10.

113 THE HISTORY OF BASEBALL IN OAKLAND Home Field Advantage: The City that Changed the Face of Sports is a book on the history of baseball in Oakland. It is signed by the author, Paul Brekke-Miesner. Donor Value: $27.

114 GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS PENNANT Felt pennant displaying the logo of the Warriors. Go Oakland! Donor Value: $11.

1153 SERIES TREK BICYCLE 3 Series is your weekend trail bike, your workday commuter, or both. Versatility, great suspension and smart spec...it’s no wonder 3 Series is the world’s best-selling mountain bike. 21”, gently used, and purple—what’s not to like? Donor: Jeffrey & Leslie Klonoff Donor Value: $150.

116OAKLAND A’S TICKETS Two first-row tickets for an Oakland A’s game. Package includes parking and $20 food or drink credit. Game to be chosen by the high bidder from a list of available dates.

Donor: David & June Marinoff Donor Value: $250.

117PAVÉ FINE JEWELRY$300 to spend any way you want at Pavé on College Avenue. Specializing in custom jewelry, Pavé is widely known for its distinctive artistic designs with an emphasis on personalized service and impeccable workmanship. Donor: Pavé Fine Jewelry Donor Value: $300

118 WATERFORD CRYSTAL BISCUIT BARREL A Waterford crystal biscuit barrel in the Glandore pattern. This beautiful jar with lid is designed in a laurel and cross-hatch cut pattern. The bottom has the distinctive Waterford cut star as well as the Waterford stamp. Donor: Neil & Marlee Taxy Donor Value: $120

100 - There is There There: Items for Your Home

100A GREAT GOOD PLACE FOR BOOKSLet’s support our local Montclair Village businesses! $50 gift certificate to A Great Good Place for Books. AGGPB is a whimsical, snug indie bookseller featuring floor-to-ceiling shelves, a kids’ area & author events. Find it at 6120 La Salle. Donor: Jeffrey & Leslie Klonoff Donor Value: $50.

101 SOMEONE’S IN THE KITCHENCome on all you BJC chefs and chefettes! You know you need this $50 gift certificate to Someone’s In the Kitchen at 6128 La Salle. Donor: Jeffrey & Leslie Klonoff Donor Value: $50.

102PEET’S$50 Peets gift card. Beans? Tea? Lattes? Their new light roast? How will you spend it? Donor: Neil & Marlee Taxy Donor Value: $50.

103 FUN FOR KIDS!Fun assortment of Jewish games and books for your child, niece, nephew, grandbaby or neighbor age 4 - 6. Donor Value: $25.

104 TALL BEARDED IRIS RHIZOMES Brighten up your garden with beautiful, colorful, tall bearded irises. A half dozen or more rhizomes (bulbs), according to what we dig up this summer, ready for planting at the end of summer. Available to the 3 highest bidders. Donor: Joel & Ruth Ackerman Donor Value: $35.

105 WIRELESS HOME SECURITY SYSTEMWireless alarm system includes the following components: panel, 1 PIR Motion detector, 1 key remote, 3 door/window contacts and 6 months of free alarm monitoring (provided there is a land line on the premises). Installation is included. Certificate must be registered within 3 months of the auction, and system installed within 1 year. Minimum bid: $300. Donor: Highcom Security Donor Value: $1,200.

106 BOKHARA KIPPABeautifully embroidered Bokhara Kippa. Adult size. Donor: Joel & Ruth Ackerman Donor Value: $35.

107 BOKHARA KIPPABeautifully embroidered Bokhara Kippa. Adult size. Donor: Joel & Ruth Ackerman Donor Value: $35.

108 ORA BOTANICAOrganic handmade skincare gift set by Ora Botanica. Gift set includes Restorative Face Creme, Himalyan Bath Salts with organically grown flowers, and Shea Butter Body and Hand Butter with Rose Geranium or Lavender Essential Oils. Donor: Lori Rubens Donor Value: $145.

1110

120 Years 120 Years

208 OAKLAND ZOO One family pass to the Oakland Zoo. It admits two adults and two children to visit the zoo and offers free parking. Donor: Oakland Zoo Donor Value: $63

209 OAKLAND A’S Four Plaza Outfield Vouchers to an Oakland A’s 2015 regular-season home game. Redeemable for games played on Monday - Thursday. Blackout dates include: 4/6, 5/11, 5/13, 5/25, 5/28, 8/18, 8/19 and 9/7. Donor: Oakland A’s Donor Value: $96

210 OAKLAND HILLS TENNIS CLUB One month mini-membership entitling a family full use of the OHTC facilities—10 tennis courts, swimming pool, spa, saunas, steam rooms, group fitness/banquet room, fitness room and clubhouse. Strict dress code is enforced. Expires November 2015 and excludes June, July and August. May not be used by current member in lieu of dues. Donor: Oakland Hills Tennis Club Donor Value: $260

300 CUSTOM-BUILT COMPUTERAdam Cohen of Cohen’s Custom Computers will custom build a desk-top computer with an Intel I5 or equivalent processor, read-writable DVD drive, solid state hard drive, 8 megabytes of RAM, and Windows 8.1 operating system. Monitor not included. Components subject to change based on market conditions. Minimum bid: $700. Donor: Adam Cohen Donor Value: $1,000.

301 TAX PREPARATIONTax preparation by an enrolled agent using the top program in the business—Lacerte. Individual, partnership, estate, trust or S-Corp. Valid through 4/15/2015. Minimum bid: $85. Donor: Marshall Schwartz Donor Value: $300.

302 MUSIC LESSONOne one-hour lesson for anyone—age 8 to 80—on winds, keyboards, frets or digital audio at a time mutually convenient to the buyer and Mikel Estrin. Expires 12/31/15. Donor: Mikel Estrin Donor Value: $50.

303 PESACH SHOPPINGPesach without the hassle, because I will do your shopping in Oakland and Palo Alto. Give me a list (no matter how long), or come along and we’ll make a Pesach-shopping extravaganza out of it! Donor: Meira Albert Donor Value: Priceless!

200 - Steppin’ Out in Oakland and Beyond

300 – Oakland is Community: Services Provided

200 LAWRENCE HALL OF SCIENCE FAMILY GUEST PASS One-time-use Family Guest Pass. Explore hands-on indoor and outdoor science exhibits including: an engineering design lab, a discovery room with live animals, interactive planetarium programs, summer camps, family workshops, and special events that inspire science learning. Admits up to two adults and their children up to age 18. No expiration. Donor: Leslie Edelman Donor Value: $60.

201TWO INTRO TO CLIMBING CLASSESRedeem this card for a 2-person Intro to Climbing class at any of Touchstone’s seven Bay Area rope-climbing locations (including Great Western Power Company in downtown Oakland). Includes gear and day pass; must be 14 years or older. Expires 12/15/31. Available to the top four bidders. Donor: Touchstone Climbing Donor Value: $60.

202 CALISTOGA SPA HOT SPRINGS$150 to spend on hotel or spa services at the Jagodas’ favorite getaway destination, Calistoga Spa Hot Springs. Go for a rigorous (but incredibly relaxing!) spa day, work out in the fitness studio with weights or a little yoga or aerobics, or go for a glorious hike up the Palisades Mountains. No expiration date. Donor: Jeff & Joanne Jagoda Donor Value: $150.

203 YOGA AND PILATESBrooklyn Academy Roots in downtown Oakland offers five 60- to 75-minute yoga classes and one private 45-min pilates session on The Reformer. Strengthen your core, improve your flexibility and decrease joint pain. Expires 12/31/15. Donor: Brooklyn Academy Roots Donor Value: $185.

204 CONTEMPORARY JEWISH MUSEUMExperience the Contemporary Jewish Museum in San Francisco, right across from the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts. The CJM makes the diversity of the Jewish experience relevant for a twenty-first century audience. Four passes each to the top two bidders. No expiration. Donor: Michael & Deborah Sosebee Donor Value: $48.

205 OAKLAND MUSEUM OF CALIFORNIAEnjoy the Oakland Museum of California right by Lake Merritt. The OMCA is an interdisciplinary museum dedicated to the art, history, and natural science of California. Four passes each to the top two bidders. No expiration. Donor: Michael & Deborah Sosebee Donor Value: $60.

206SAN FRANCISCO BALLETTwo tickets in Orchestra, Dress Circle or Balcony Circle for one performance during San Francisco Ballet’s 2015 Repertory Season in the War Memorial Opera House. May be redeemed for Program 5, 6 or 7 and expires April 20, 2015. visit www.sfballet.org for details regarding the programs. Donated by San Francisco Ballet Donor value is $146.

207HABITOT CHILDREN’S MUSEUM One Family Guest Pass to Habitot Children’s Museum in Berkeley. Admits two adults and all your children. Habitot offers hands-on exhibits, art programs, multicultural events, drop-in activities and parent support activities. Help young children learn and grow! Expires February 8, 2016. Donor Habitot Children’s Museum Donor Value: $39.

200 - Steppin’ Out in Oakland and Beyond

1312

120 Years 120 Years

311 TENNIS INSTRUCTION OR THERAPYTwo hours of tennis instruction with the Shul Pro. Stephen is available to work with you on your game or with a child or grandchild. He has produced 2 Piedmont High School tennis team captains, and child #3 is a sophomore on the men’s varsity. It takes a tough man to produce a skilled player. Donor: Stephen Leist Donor Value: Priceless!

312 HOME REPAIRBJC’s own handyman, Stephen Leist, will come to your home or place of business for three hours to solve that nagging Honey-Do item. Past projects include fixing walls, hanging shelves and mounting art. He comes with with his own tools and boombox. Donor: Stephen Leist Donor Value: Priceless!

313 PAMPER YOURSELF, PAMPER YOUR CHILDREN Leave your beloved little ones, or older ones, ages 5 to 12 with Sheryl Nureck! Cast all worries to the wind, as you head out for a few hours of well-deserved, quality adult time. Top three bidders will each receive care for one or two children for one evening. And if you coordinate with friends, she’ll take all the kids (up to six) on one night so you can go out together! Saturday night or Sunday afternoon/evening to be determined by Sheryl and winning bidder(s). Donor: Sheryl Nureck Donor Value: priceless

401 CHOCOLATE CAKE*Again offering Ruth’s deservedly famous pareve chocolate cake—with icing—to the highest bidder. The winner should contact Ruth at least a week in advance of the desired date. Donor: Joel & Ruth Ackerman Donor Value: $40.

402 SCOPUS CHARDONNAYSix bottles of a Sonoma Mountain chardonnay made from grapes grown by the Sassons and produced by Covenant winemaker Jeff Morgan. Scopus Chardonnay has an aromatic nose of stone fruit, tart apple, and citrus buoyed by a good mineral streak, much of which follows onto the medium-bodied palate with some toasty oak from the 12 months in the barrel. Available to the two top bidders. Donor: Susan & Ori Sasson Donor Value: $192.

403 A YEAR OF SEMIFREDDI’SSemifreddi’s offers one year of bread, one loaf per week. May be used at either retail location (Kensington or Berkeley). Valid for one year from date of first redemption. Donor: Semifreddi’s Donor Value: $160.

404 HOMEMADE MACAROONS*Do you love coconut? Perhaps dipped in chocolate? I will make you 2 dozen standard (or 18 large) home-made macaroons to your specification and deliver them to your home: They can be dairy or pareve; chocolate-dipped, caramel drizzled (dairy only) or plain. Donor: Jessica Blazer Donor Value: Priceless!


400 – Gastronomical Delights

*Standards of kashrut are those of the host family and are not assured by Beth Jacob. Please consult with Rabbi Albert or Rabbi Fox if you have questions about the kashrut standards of the host kitchen.

304 SPEAK SLOWLY, CLEARLY, CONFIDENTLY! GIVING A DRASH CAN ACTUALLY BE FUN!The invitations have been sent, the caterer is on board - who’s going to help your son or daughter prepare for delivering the drasha? Harriet Schiffer Scott is an actor, director and executive speech coach offering highly effective performance and presentation skills that will have them looking forward to speaking on their special day. Four one-hour sessions at the shul. Donor: Harriet Schiffer Scott Donor Value: $300.

305 INTRO TO PROGRAMMING AGE 4 - 8Got a child age 4 - 8 who is interested in learning beginning computer programming? Katie Bravmann (OHDS 7th grader) invites him/her to attend three of her Sunday afternoon (4:00 - 5:00) Intro to Programming classes. Your child will learn how to create a game in Scratch, a free visual programming language for beginners. Available to the top three bidders. Donor: Katie Bravmann Donor Value: $30.

306 2015 BACK TO BUSINESS LINKEDIN OVERHAULAre you using LinkedIn effectively to maximize your synergies to leverage all of the opportunities out there? Forget the Gobbledygook. Spend one hour with Dan Cohen working on your LinkedIn profile to help you job hunt, find customers, grow your business, or just provide a platform for marketing what you care about. Donor: Dan Cohen Donor Value: $100.

307 SIMCHA SISTERS EVENT PLANNING GIFT CARDSimcha Sisters is donating a $180 gift card towards event-planning services. Simcha Sisters provides its clients with the highest level of event-planning services, often exceeding their clients’ expectations. Donor: Simcha Sisters Donor Value: $180.

308 LANDSCAPING SERVICESHave you been on the fence about landscaping your home or office? Maybe you just need... a fence!!! or a new irrigation system or modify or repair an old one? Do you need to prepare your grounds to accommodate the drought and reduce water use? Possibly you just want to beautify your garden. Whatever your need, this is the item for you! East Bay Landscaping Company is offering $3000 of labor toward installation, consultation and/or design services to the two highest bidders. Minimum bid: $2000. No expiration. www.eastbaylandscaping.com. Donor: Richard & Naomi Applebaum Donor Value: $3,000.

309 ZOOM IN - OFFICE TEETH WHITENINGTeeth whitening - brightens teeth in about an hour. Contact Dr. Elena Davidson at Drelena...davidsondentalgroup.com or 510-449-6034. Expires 12/1/15. Available to the top two bidders. Donor: Dr. Elena Davidson Donor Value: $500.

310 WOMAN’S HAIR CUT & BLOW DRYOne woman’s hair cut & blow dry with hair designer & color specialist Troy Ledo (Danville). Call 925-785-7791 to reserve your appointment! Expires 4/30/15. Donor: Roni & Julie Ovadia Donor Value: $70.


1514

120 Years 120 Years

415HAGAFEN TOUR AND WINE High bidder is entitled to a VIP tasting of all wines (current releases, reserve, and library wines) and a tour for six at Hagafen’s Napa Valley winery. In addition, the winner will take home one free case of Hagafen Cellars White Riesling. One week’s notice for the tour. Valid through February 8, 2016. Donor: Hagafen Donor Value: $450.

500 BELGIAN BEER, BAR GAMES AND BELLY LAUGHS*A wild, hilarious, and irreverent parents’ night out with the finest Belgian and artisan beers, as well as bar games, familiar and new! Offered by the Minkoffs to 12 adults on Saturday, November 14, 2015 at 7:00 pm at The Trappist Bar in Oakland. Minimum bid: $25.

501 SETTLERS OF CATAN TOURNAMENTHow many roads will you build? Should you trade ore for sheep? Join Jack Zimmerman to find out whether you have what it takes to be the champion Settler of Catan in this two-round tournament. Available to 15-24 participants on Sunday March 1, 2015 at 1 pm in the BJC downstairs social hall. Dairy snacks will be provided and a prize goes to the top settler. Minimum bid: $25.

502 HOCKEY MORNING IN OAKLAND*Come watch the Red Wings take on the Bruins. Ian Blumenfeld and Michael Gerber will grill some sausages, brew some coffee, and pour some beers for your pleasure. Enjoy hockey with a genuine Canadian! Available to 8 guests on Sunday, March 8, 2015 at 10 am at the Blumenfeld home. Minimum bid: $25.

503 PINBALL TOURNAMENTJoin Rick Tash at the Alameda Pinball Museum for a late afternoon of unlimited pinball. We will have a pinball competition to determine who plays the meanest pinball. Available to 10 adults on Sunday, March 8, 2015 at 5 pm. Minimum bid: $35.

400 – Gastronomical Delights 500 – Operation Oakland: Your Social Calendar


405 SHAKE ‘N BAKE*If it’s baked, it’s yours. Deborah will make a lasagna, a quiche, or a batch of muffins or scones just for you! Available to the top two bidders. One week’s notice, please. Donor: Deborah Sosebee Donor Value: Priceless!

406 THE PERFECT COOKIE*A baker’s dozen of the world’s best chocolate chip cookies, at least in the opinion of the New York Times (and the many BJC members who have been privileged to try them). These enormous cookies are firm at the edges, soft in the center, very dairy, very decadent and very delicious. One week’s notice, please. Available to the top two bidders. Donor: Deborah Sosebee Donor Value: Priceless!

407 GIFT SET OF SPICES6 jars of spices including Cinnamon Saigon Powder, Herbs de Provence Salt, Organic Roasted Chicken Blend, Lemon Herbs Seasoning, Garlic & Parsley Salt, and Zhug. Available to the top 10 bidders. Donor: Ronit & Shuli Madmone Donor Value: $25.

408 POST-PESACH CHALLAH*How tired are you of matzah after Pesach? This year, get two large, freshly baked, and lovingly homemade challahs to get the taste of matzah out of your mouth. To be redeemed for Shabbos of April 17th/18th. Donor: Adrea Gerber Donor Value: Priceless!

409 PIEDMONT GROCERY $100 to spend any way you like at Piedmont Grocery. Serving the local community since 1902. Donor: Piedmont Grocery Donor Value: $100

410 DINING AT OAKLAND KOSHEREnjoy $25 off your bill of $37.50 or more at the restaurant at Oakland Kosher. Not valid for grocery products. No expiration. Donor Value: $25.

411 DARDIQUE: POT POURRIOne bottle of Chateau Dardique 2005 Merlot (Rabbi Dardik’s surprise favorite), one bottle of 2009 Merlot (surprisingly complex fruit), three bottles of 2008 Merlot, and three mystery bottles of unmarked but surely delicious Chateau Dardique—a total of eight bottles for your gustatory pleasure! Donor: Rabbi Dardik Donor Value: Priceless!

412 CHATEAU DARDIQUE 2007 MERLOTSix bottles of Chateau Dardique 2007 Merlot. According to Rabbi Dardik, the 2007 was hands down the smoothest vintage of Chateau Dardique ever made. Silky down to the finish. The kind of wine to sip in front of the fireplace on a long evening, or compliment a favorite dinner menu. Available to the two top bidders. Donor: Rabbi Dardik Donor Value: Priceless!

413 DARDIQUE ORIGINALSix bottles of Chateau Dardique’s original 2004 vintage. Definitely not available in stores, so place your bids before midnight tonight. Available to the two top bidders. Donor: Rabbi Dardik Donor Value: Priceless!

414 CHATEAU DARDIQUE 2011 SYRAHSix bottles of Chateau Dardique’s “final vintage.” Special reserve - it spent more than twice as long aging in the oak barrel as any other Dardique wine. Available to the two top bidders. Donor: Rabbi Dardik Donor Value: Priceless!

400 – Gastronomical Delights

1716

120 Years 120 Years

510 AN EVENING OF IMPROV STARRING—YOUHave you ever wondered what it would be like to perform Improv? Have you done Improv in the past and miss the excitement of creating something out of nothing? Did you act in high school or college and want to relive the thrill of performance, but don’t have the time to memorize lines? If you answered “yes” to any of the above, then this event is for you! A director from Pan Theater will lead a 2-1/2 hour Intro to Improv class, assisted by our very own Zev Rubenstein. Included in the package are two $12 tickets to their Saturday night Improv shows. Available to 10 participants at 7:00 pm on Sunday, April 19, 2015 at the Pan Theater in Oakland. Minimum bid: $25.

511 FINANCIAL SEMINAR/BRUNCH*After a delicious dairy brunch, Dana Gross will present An Economic Guide to 2015. Key strategies include: Navigating the Medicare Surtax, Ideas for Tax-Savvy Investing, Little Known Social Security Strategies, Family and Charitable Giving, Aging and Its Financial Implications: Planning For Housing. Available to 12 adults at 11 am on Sunday, April 26, 2015 at 11 am at Kirsten Barrere’s home. Minimum bid: $25.

512 IKEBANA CLASS WITH A MASTER*What better way to spend a Sunday afternoon than with beautiful flowers and tasty tea and treats? Learn to create your own holiday floral arrangement. 4th term Master Suikei Ashizawa will teach the basic principles of Ohara school of Ikebana. Ohara is one of several thousand schools in Japan and among the top ten largest and most popular. The main focus of Ohara (and what distinguishes the school) is that it closely follows the natural forms that occur in nature. Flowers and materials (vase and kenzan) will be provided. Bring your own clippers or “hasami.” Available to 10 people at 2:00 pm on Sunday, April 26, 2015 at Galyn Susman’s home. Minimum bid: $60.

513 10TH ANNUAL BETH JACOB WINE TASTING*In the past we’ve tasted Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Syrah. This year, red wines from other grapes, mainly grown along the shores of the Mediterranean, such as Cabernet Franc, Sangiovese, Carignan and Barbera. Plus, a special surprise to complete our 10th—and probably final—year. As always, dessert, coffee and tea will be provided. Available to 20 adults on Sunday April 26, 2015 at 6:30 pm at the Ackerman home in Richmond. Minimum bid: $55.

514 TRES DE MAYO!!!*Get ready for the holiday two days early with this Mexican fiesta! Includes handcrafted cocktails, tacos—short-rib with horseradish aioli, and grilled fish or vegetarian with grapefruit jalapeno slaw—a home-made salsa bar, tomato gazpacho with lime “cream,” meat-filled chile rellenos, achiote rice, and beans, made with love from authentic Mexican family recipes. Your chef: Jeremy Abenojar Weiss (of Mexican descent, and who works all positions in the SF restaurant industry) with sous chef (and father) Paul Weiss; your hostess with the mostess: Mamacita Allison Kent Weiss. Nuestra casa es su casa! Available to 8 adults on Sunday, May 3, 2015 at 6 pm at the Weiss home. Minimum bid: $50.

515 PINT NIGHT REDUX—FEELING SAUCY!*If you love ice cream—and even moreso all the toppings that go with it—then you’ll want to come party with us. Sweet Susan Zimmerman and Spicy Jessica Blazer invite you to taste a variety of toppings, all homemade, including the traditional chocolate, strawberry, caramel and/or butterscotch, and we’ll also venture into newer territory, like peanut butter, praline, and maybe even garlic. Find your favorite, and then indulge in a sundae with one or more scoops, sauces, and toppings! This saucy shindig is available to 12 adults on Sunday, May 3, 2015 at the Sosebee home. Minimum bid: $25.

500 – Operation Oakland: Your Social Calendar


504 BAGEL BAKING*Who says you can’t get good bagels in California? Learn how to make the real thing and then enjoy your creations at a light dairy brunch. Available to six bakers on Sunday, March 15, 2015 at 10 am at the Orbach home in Novato. Minimum bid: $25.

505 TIPS AND TRICKS FOR BEING SAFE ONLINE*With the rising rates of identity theft—particularly targeting children—and medical-identity theft, exacerbated by the ubiquity of technology, do you ever wonder if you’re doing enough to keep yourself and your loved ones safe online? We’ll share helpful reminders and tips and tricks we’ve picked up over the years in our respective roles as a privacy attorney (Jessica Blazer) and an IT professional (David White) with more than 40 years of combined experience. Cookies will be served. Will you accept them? Sunday, March 15, 2015 at 7:30 pm. Minimum bid: $50.

506 PINOT AND PAINTJoin Melony Bravmann to create your own beautiful Jewish painting while sipping wine, kvelling with good friends and noshing. All supplies are provided and no art experience is needed! Just bring your creative spirit and a playful willingness to get messy. Available to 12 guests on March 18, 2015 at 7 pm in the downstairs Social Hall. Minimum bid: $25.

507AN EVENING OF CLASSIC COMEDY*Does Monty Python still crack you up? Can you quote choice passages from Mel Brooks’ 2000 Year Old Man? Do you know Who’s On First? Then join us for a night of classic audio comedy clips from the 1950s through the 1980s, carefully curated by Mark Zitter, Todd Wilkof and Rabbi Howard Ruben. You’ll hear plenty of old favorites as well as more obscure (but equally hilarious) selections. Laughter is guaranteed! After-dinner drinks, dairy hors d’oeuvres, and desserts are included. Available to 25 adults on Sunday, March 22, 2015 at 7 pm at the Zitter home. Minimum bid: $30.

508 JEWISH PLAYS PROJECTDiscover the next Wendy Wasserstein or David Mamet. Howard and Debby Jacoby Ruben invite you to be part of the judging audience for the JPP as we gather in the JCHS (Jewish Community High School) Theater in reserved seats for an evening of three staged-readings followed by voting to advance one play to the international 2015 Jewish Play Writing Contest. Then enjoy a conversation with JCHS Theater Director Dylan Russell accompanied by dairy desserts and wine. Available to 14 guests on Thursday, March 26 at 7 pm. Minimum bid: $35.

509 SUNDAY SOLE SEARCHING*San Francisco Shoe Shopping Expedition. Join Dawn Arens for a “heeling” trek across the bridge. Taking a less trodden path, boldly venture to at least three lesser-known shoe stores. Test the heights to which you are willing to step and wonder at how little regard some among us—perhaps even yourself—have for personal comfort. It is highly recommended that you have your credit card “in toe.” Includes a dairy bag lunch and is available to 7 shoe-shoppers on Sunday, March 29, 2015 at 11 am. Minimum bid: $35.



1918

120 Years 120 Years

523 MAN’S CUP IXBarry and Alan challenge you to pit your skills in foosball, table hockey, and paper football against fellow congregants (as well as a panel of esteemed rabbis) to determine if you have what it takes to bring home The Cup and earn the title: Manliest Man at Beth Jacob! Meat for carnivores, veggie options for manitarians, and beer for all will be provided. Catering by Heshy Fried. Available to 16 manly men on Sunday, June 21, 2015 at 5 pm in the upstairs Social Hall. Minimum bid: $100.

524SOUTH AFRICAN BOEREWORS BASH*Enjoy a casual, fun-for-the-whole-family “boerewors braai” by the pool in Moraga. Traditional South African boerewors (farmers’ sausages) and mielie pap topped with a secret tomato gravy recipe, followed by a delicious Cape brandy pudding dessert. Try a boerie roll with delectable South African chutney and peri-peri sauces! Hosted at the home of Vered and Mark Links, with co-hosts Nicole & Jonathan Smith, and Philippa & Justin Lichterman. Available to three families at noon on Sunday, June 7, 2015. Minimum bid: $75 per family.

525 NEW YEAR OF MEAT*Tractate Rosh Hoshana identifies Rosh Chodesh Elul as the New Year of meat. Why waste your time with fruit salad on Tu b’Shevat when you can make a holy seuda of basar? Join in the great forgotten Jewish holiday. Available to 6 adults on Sunday, August 16, 2015 at 5 pm at the Gerber home. Minimum bid: $50.

526 SOME LIKE IT HOT*The Leider, Ross, Gluck and Green families offer a warm summer evening south of the border tasting a dozen salsas, delectable dairy tapas, Spanish-inspired cuisines, margaritas and premium tequilas. Let the last breezes of summer and strains of Spanish ballads wash over you as you enjoy good company on the Ross family’s zocalo. Available to 20 adults on Sunday, August 30, 2015 at 5 pm. Minimum bid: $50.

527 CRAFTING AND COCKTAILS*Join crafting sisters Jen Blumenfeld and Jessica Minkoff for a girls’ night of cocktails, crafts and creativity! We will make items appropriate for decorating your sukkah. No previous crafting experience necessary. Available to 10 adults on Tuesday, September 1, 2015 at 7 pm at the Minkoff home. Minimum bid: $20.

528 CHEESE WITH A BREEZE*Fondue in our Sukkah, prepared by Todd Wilkof, the founder of the original Fondue Fred’s in Berkeley. Two different cheese fondues paired with wine, as well as a dark chocolate dessert fondue, will be served. Available to 8 adults on Wednesday, September 30, 2015 at 7 pm in the Wilkofs’ sukkah. Minimum bid: $50.

529 SUKKAH FUNPartay in the Sukkah!! This is no regular game night! Join the Foxes and the new NCSY couple (!!) for some interactive games! Lots of fun and lots of food in store for 12 lucky peeps at 6:30 pm on Thursday, October 1, 2015 in the Foxes’ sukkah. Minimum bid: $25.




516 THE COLORFUL SIDE OF CLASSICAL MUSIC*Join the colorful Robert Greenberg for another spectacular listening party. This time Dr. Greenberg will focus on the lesser known - and spicier - details of the lives of Western Music’s best known composers. If you like classical music (or wish you did), come hear America’s most popular music educator, whose expertise is exceeded only by his wit. After-dinner drinks and parve desserts included! Available to 25 teens and adults on Sunday, May 10, 2015 at 7 pm at the Zitter home. Minimum bid: $50.

517 ROCK-CLIMBING ADVENTUREJoin David Gluck and Leor Weinberger for a morning of vigorous rock climbing at Oakland’s own Great Western Power Company climbing gym. Rope up and attempt to ascend the many indoor routes up to 48 feet above the padded floor. Climbing shoes, harnesses, equipment and ropes all generously provided by Touchstone Climbing. We will meet at Beth Jacob at 9:30 am to carpool over to the gym where we will be trained in the proper use of the equipment before beginning our climbs. Available to 8 adults on Sunday, May 17, 2015 from 9:30 am to 12:00 noon. Minimum bid: $35.

518 CHUMMUS AND CHAMIN BARSure, you know what chummus is, but what’s chamin? It’s been called “Modern Manna” and the “Ancient Shabbat Stew.” The French call theirs “cassoulet,” the Spanish “cocido madrile” and the Ashkenazim chow down on “chulent.” Carried from Old World Spain to New World Portugal, chamin has been the gastric delight for generations of Jews around the world. Join the Alberts and Harriet Schiffer Scott at the Chummus and Chamin Bar for a fleishig epicurean extravaganza in a delightful “cham” (hot) feast with Middle Eastern dips galore. Available to 20 guests on Sunday, May 17, 2015 at 5:30 pm at Harriet’s home. Minimum bid: $30.

519 MUPPETS WITH A MENU*Join Ellie Brickman Hajdu and Galyn Susman for a late morning brunch and puppet-building class. Munch on some tasty treats while learning to make your own puppet using Jim Henson and Folkmanis puppet-building techniques. Available to 10 adults and young adults (due to the combination of sharp implements and strong beverages) on May 31, 2015 at 11 am at the Susman/Levin home. Minimum bid: $35.

520 RABBI FOX’S RESTAURANTWho says only meat is manly? Enjoy a lavish array of carbs and cheese, done Rabbi Fox style! And cooked up by Daniel himself! Available to six adults (family friendly—kids eat FREE) at 5:00 pm on Sunday, June 7, 2015 at the Fox home. Minimum bid: $25.

521 BOLLYWOOD BANQUET*Jackie Dahan and Alex Hart invite you to an exotic Bollywood dinner event featuring the flavors of India. Allow all your senses to be indulged as you feast on classic Indian cuisine in a beautiful outdoor garden. It will be an evening to remember! Meat with vegetarian options. Available to 8 guests on June 14, 2015 at 6:30 pm at the Dahan home. Minimum bid: $50.

522 MAN’S CUP SHABBAT LUNCH W/RABBIS DARDIK & ROZENHosted by Rachel & Alan Engel, you will dine with Man’s Cup Hall of Fame Members Rabbi Dardik (2014) & Rabbi Rozen (2011). We will strictly observe the Man’s Cup three-meat minhag. Vegi options available. Available to 6 guests on Shabbat, June 20, 2015 at 2:30 pm at the Engel home. Minimum bid: $200.


2120

120 Years 120 Years

537 6TH ANNUAL POKER TOURNAMENT*All are welcome to join David White at the 6th annual BJC poker tournament, also known as “eat pizza, drink beer and talk smack.” Food will be provided and a bottle of something good will be awarded to the winner. Available to adults only on Sunday, November 8, 2015 at 6:30 pm. Minimum bid: $50.

538 EXPLORING POTATO LATKAS*A hands-on opportunity to learn to make latkas with Kirsten Barrere and then sit down and taste your creation with homemade applesauce as a side. She will walk participants through lacy potato/sweet potato latkas and mushroom/spinach pancakes. Available to 6 adults on November 15, 2015 at 11 am at Kirsten’s home. Minimum bid: $30.

539 AFTERNOON TEA IN THE BRITISH MANNER*Won’t you have a spot of tea? Might Alex Hart, Bev Weinberger and Jackie Dahan tempt you to wafer thin sandwiches, scones with strawberry jam and clotted cream and a slice, or two, of freshly baked cake? Available to 12 guests on November 15, 2015 at 4 pm at the Hart Manor. Minimum bid: $30.

540 LADIES’ POKER NIGHT*Do you want to learn when to hold ‘em and when to fold ‘em, while sipping yummy drinks, enjoying some light snacks, and laughing with your lady friends? If so, join Jessica Blazer, Millie Santiago and Miriam Barrere for a fun-filled, non-competitive evening. We’ll learn basic poker rules and then, if there’s interest, move onto some other games and variations. There might even be boas... but you’ll have to participate to find out! We provide the chips (and dip, too). Just bring a good attitude and willingness to play with the big boys... er, girls! Available to 8 women on Saturday, November 21, 2015 at 7:30 pm at the Ross home. Minimum bid: $25.

541 РУССКИЙ ОБЕД (BABUSHKIN BORSCH)*Would you like to enjoy a traditional Russian dinner—delicious appetizers, beet soup, pelmeni (chicken dumplings)—toast vodka, and learn a little bit about Russian culture? Or maybe you already know it and the Russian dinner is not so much Russian but something you remember from your childhood, something your grandma (babushka) used to cook for you? Please come, enjoy and tell your stories! The Burshteyns, Vaisenbergs and Shusteffs offer this experience to 20 adults on Sunday November 22, 2015 at 7 pm at the Burshteyn home in Walnut Creek. Minimum bid: $50.

542 KOSHER SOUL FOOD*Back by popular demand! Very slow cooked meat-and-potato cholent with diced potatoes, onions, chuck roast and ground beef. Baked for hours with continual addition of water. To be served in an elegant setting with kosher wines. Tour of car collection available before dinner if sufficient interest. Available to 8 adults at 5:30 pm on Sunday, November 29, 2105 at the Barricks home. Minimum bid: $35.

543 CARTOONS, MACAROONS & CHOCOLATE RANGOONS REDUX*It’s no secret some of the finest dairy desserts in our community are created in the Edelman & Diengott/Carr kitchens. Here’s your chance to double down. Indulge!! Enjoy!! Pair some red wine or made-to-order hand-roasted coffee with your chocolate truffles. And once your endorphin levels have been properly elevated, grab a seat in front of the big screen for Andrew Gordon’s tour of the first two decades of Pixar’s animated characters, with never-before-seen footage and other surprises. Volunteers will go through acting exercises to demonstrate concepts such as status and gestures. Available to 40 adults on Saturday, December 5, 2015 at 8 pm at the Susman/Levin home. Minimum bid: $100.



530 SHTETL COMFORT FOOD*Bubbe Meat - from Zondra’s bubbe—a traditional favorite of our family. Brisket, white potatoes, sweet potatoes, onions, vegetables—all slow cooked. A prototypical old recipe from the village of Vinizer in the Ukraine. Dinner will be served in a beautiful setting with plenty of excellent kosher wine. Tour of car collection included. Available to 8 adults at 5:30 pm on Sunday, October 11, 2015 at the Barricks home. Minimum bid: $30.

531 STAR WARS-A-THON*In preparation for the release of the seventh installment of the saga, join Jack Zimmerman and Dan Cohen for a dairy meal and treats, and watch the first six installments in order of original release date. Available to 8 guests on Sunday, October 18, 2015 at 6 pm at the Fisher/Cohen home. Minimum bid: $50.

532 JOURNEY TO CHINA TEA TASTING*Journey to China Tea Tasting—Enjoy 5 types of traditional Chinese tea (white, green, yellow, oolong, pu-erh). All teas are loose leaf, single origin, unblended, with no additives. Learn about the benefits of tea and traditional brewing techniques. Light pareve tea snacks will be served. All guests will take home some loose-leaf teas. Available to six adults on Sunday, October 25, 2015 at 2:00 pm at the Green/Huang home. Minimum bid: $20.

533 FOLK NIGHT AT THE ALBERT HOMEJoin Rabbi Gershon and Meira Albert as they sing through the songbook of Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen, and others. Lyric books, coffee, tea, pareve snacks and dim lighting provided. It’s going to be a tranquil blast. Available to 15 teenagers and adults on Sunday, October 25, 2015 at 8 pm at the Alberts’ home. Minimum bid: $25.

534 CULT MOVIE NIGHT*Come join in a screening of a cult classic movie. Participants will choose between three movies that have developed a rabid following. Popcorn, beer, and other yummy dairy movie treats will be provided as well as a discussion of how the film become a cult sensation. Available to four teenagers or adults at 7:30 pm on Sunday, November 1, 2015 at the Gerber Theater. Minimum bid: $20.

535 SHUL OF ROCK*A walk through David Gluck’s and Diane Whitten-Vile’s selection of 1960s and 70s rock ‘n roll music. Music Trivia, Who-Done-It, Who Wrote It, “Sounds Like,” Alternative Versions of Classics and “Who Did They Rip this Song Off From?” Plenty of easy, medium and hard questions (Shul of Rock 101, 201, and 301), with prizes, rewards and a tasty dairy dinner with dessert. Available to 20 adults on Saturday November 7, 2015 at 7 pm at the Gluck home. Minimum bid $30.

536 EAST BAY ROCKS!*Join us for a trip to Mount Diablo, a fascinating window to the geology beneath us as well as a spectacular viewpoint for the world around us. We’ll take a look at the stories the rocks and fossils of Mount Diablo tell about the natural history of the East Bay, enjoy some moderate walking, and have a simple picnic lunch at the summit. All adults and children with patience for discussions and explorations are welcome. Available to 12 guests on November 8, 2015 at 9 am at Mt. Diablo. Minimum bid: $25.



22

120 Years 120 Years

23

551SERIOUS SCOTCH TASTING*Rare scotch on a rarely held event. An evening for which you will need a clear schedule for the morning after. Give me a few hours, give Beth Jacob a few dollars, and I will give you an outrageous Scotch experience. (Thus Spake Neil.) Available to 15 adults at 7 pm on Sunday, May 31, 2015 at the Hart home. Minimum bid: $125.

552 MINDFULNESSGive the gift of mindfulness to yourself and/or someone you love! Join us for a morning of basic meditation techniques and practice. Learn how meditation offers tremendous benefits to individuals, from stress relief to increased professional effectiveness and greater life satisfaction. We will explore the core skills of meditation with a few Jewish options as well. With Mike Smith, Ph.D., former meditation instructor at Cal State, East Bay; Richard Leavitt, MD, who has done Mindfulness Meditation/Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for many years; and Ellen Beilock, JD, long-time meditator trained in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. Available on Sunday, March 22, 2015 at 10 am in the BJC small shul. Minimum bid: $25.

553 DEATH: ITALIAN STYLE*Are you ready for the end of your life? The challenges of facing death can be overwhelming. This stressful time is made difficult by the complexity of navigating the medical health industry and is further complicated as Jewish medical ethics dictates specific guidelines for making end-of-life decisions. Join Dr. Jessica Nutik-Zitter, palliative care specialist, and Rabbi Daniel Fox, as they share their expertise and wisdom about preparing for the end of life. Available to 18 adults on Sunday, March 29, 2015 at 6:00 pm at the Gluck home. Delicious dairy Italian meal prepared by Robin Gluck. Minimum bid: $36.

544 PERSIAN DINNERJoin Lynn Greene, and Rabbi and Bryna Fox, as they take a trip back to Bryna’s family roots, with a gourmet Persian dinner! 14 lucky people will enjoy delicious, exotic, fleishig cuisine and good company, too, at 6:00 pm on Sunday, January 10, 2016 at the Fox home. Minimum bid: $50.

545 HOT N’ CRUSTY*Hot n’ Crusty, the winter soup and sandwich extravaganza, returns for its sixth year. “Have it your way” takes on new meaning when Shelley and Ari Zak and Harriet Schiffer Scott custom create each and every sandwich from gourmet ingredients that you select. Come spend a lovely chilly Sunday with old friends while making new ones. Taste some tummy-warming soups and build your own panini sandwiches. Available to 12 guests on Sunday, January 31, 2016 at 11 am at the Zak home. Minimum bid: $25.

546 MAH JONG*Mah Jong is a game of skill played by four people with domino-like tiles and has been actively played since the 19th century. Jewish Mah Jong evolved from the Chinese game. As reported by Stanford PhD., Ashley Waters in her doctoral research, “Many Jewish daughters are now returning to the game as a way to connect with their Jewish identities and...the game their parents and grandparents played.” Fun for beginners and experts alike. Snack and cards are included. Bid is for four sessions. Available to 12 guests on 4 Wednesdays in May (May 6, 13, 20 and 27) at 7:30 pm at the Shachat home. Minimum bid: $25.

547 ROSH HASHANA MEAL AT THE ALBERTS’Join Rabbi and Meira Albert (and Sarah!) for a fleishikh Rosh Hashana meal. Available to two lucky bidder families for a meal of your choosing during Rosh Hashana 2015 (September 13/14). Minimum bid: $125.

548 FAITES LA FETE!*Une soirée d’été, tout en français avec Patrick Feigelson et Abraham Boskovitz! À la demande générale, l’équipe franco-suisse de Beth Jacob remet ça! Patrick et Abraham vous proposent une petite grande fête de derrière les fagots et dont eux seuls ont le secret! Uniquement en français, repas inclus : 50 dollars (ou 42 Euros) par personne, minimum. Available to many francophones on a date to be determined. Minimum bid $50.

549 SHABBAT WITH THE FOXESSpend time with Daniel, Bryna, Rivka Neima, Shua, and Nachi Fox over a Shabbat meal. Enjoy the Rabbi’s melodious Kiddush, the children’s Shabbat excitement, and some good food too! Two lucky families will each partake in a private Shabbat meal on a date mutually convenient to the winner and Foxes. Minimum bid: $125.

550 SHABBAT DINNER IN YOUR HOME*Take Friday off. Jay Goldman and Mona Goldfine will shop, cook in your kitchen, and serve dinner for 10 (plus the two of them—hey, they gotta eat, too). Everything from challah and wine to dessert. Best roast chicken EVER, or excellent fish entrée. 6-7 courses. And they’ll clean up from meal preparation, too! Menu details to be arranged when scheduling. (Must be dog- and cat-free environment). On a date convenient to the purchaser and the donors. Minimum bid: $500.




PRINTED 2015 OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA

beth jacob congregation annual dinner · applbaums, and includes same-day, round-trip airfare,...

Documents