Announcements

September/October President's Column by Debby Radin: What's in a Name
Do you recall the moment you created your first email account? Did you try for an address that would provide privacy, express your personality, accurately identify you, or perhaps you were just hoping to secure an address that no one with your same name had thought of before? I opted for simplicity, and forever forward I became known as “Deb Radin”.

Looking for A Few Friendly Volunteer Greeters
Be the friendly first impression and helpful presence at our community events. We need volunteers to help with greeting and creating a positive experience so that every person who walks through our doors feels at home. We are looking for warm, enthusiastic, friendly people to help us. Sound like you? Sound like someone you know? Encourage them to sign up, too. A fun training will be provided. If you or someone you know might be interested, please contact greeterleads@betham.org.

Beth Am Solidarity Trip to Israel
Travel Dates: Sunday, November 16-Sunday, November 23
Join Rabbi Art Nemitoff and Rabbi Heath Watenmaker for a once-in-a-generation experience on a week-long congregational trip to Israel for one week (November 16-23). Participants will spend time exploring the “matzav” (situation) on the ground, talking with Israelis and Palestinians. The itinerary will begin with a visit to Hostage Square (if it still exists!), followed by a day visiting the Gaza Envelope and Nova Festival site. Travelers will also spend time visiting with hostage families, journalists and commentators, government representatives, and regular Israelis and Palestinians.

Caregivers Sh'ma Groups
Are you caring for a spouse? If you feel overwhelmed, you are not alone. You can take part in a Sh’ma group — not therapy, but a safe and friendly space to share stories. This group format has proved successful here at Beth Am in helping us start meaningful, supportive conversations. You will have guidelines for suggested topics and respectful interactions. You can easily form or join a group; the leadership duties are minimal and help from clergy is continually available. Groups are now forming. Join in! For more information, please contact Rabbi Watenmaker at rabbi_watenmaker@betham.org.

October Fund in Focus: Beit R’Fuah (House of Healing) Fund
Beit R’Fuah (House of Healing) is a vital program serving people who suffer from mental illness and their families. In the safety of a confidential, caring and nonjudgmental environment, families and their loved ones who are coping with mental illness can share their stories without fear of being judged or embarrassed. Our world just gets more and more complicated and stressful, resulting in greater urgency to serve as a resource for members who need support.

Together, Let’s Renew Our Commitment to a Healthy Beth Am
Beth Am is committed to being the center of your Jewish life, a place to find meaning and fulfillment, and a safe and loving space for all who seek it. As we embark on our new synagogue year, we must renew our commitment to each other, and to the financial health of our congregation.

Does your employer have a matching gift program? You may be able to double your support of Beth Am!
Many Bay Area companies will match charitable donations dollar-for-dollar, including your contributions for Beth Am membership.

Adult Education Opportunities: Start 5786 Off Right by Learning Something New!
We have an exciting schedule of learning opportunities this fall, including a Klezmer class, a Trope class, the Saxe Scholar-in-Residence Weekend, and the Fall Guthaner Lecture. Whether you are a talmid chacham (Torah scholar) or new to Judaism, Jewish learning is for you! Please visit the Adult Education webpage for full class descriptions and registration information.