Link of the week...
Wednesday, February 12
6:30-8:00 pm
Tori Shepard will present Home Match , a nonprofit organization to help connect homeowners with people seeing an affordable place to live. She will also cover other services for older adults in San Francisco including Rebuilding Together , another non-profit that provides home safety modification like grab bars, handrails, etc for those who want to age in place. Open to Everyone. Brought to you by SZ's Adult Orphans group. Paisha Rochlin: paimar@pacbell.net // onceupntym@sbcglobal.net
Our SZ Torah Mantles are on Exhibit
At the Contemporary Jewish Museum (CJM)!
Wednesday, February 12
6:00 pm Reception
Contemporary Jewish Museum: 736 Mission St. 94103
Drawn from the holdings of The Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life (UC Berkeley, curated by Francesco Spagnolo) this exhibition showcases a variety of textiles used by the San Francisco Jewish community during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Join other Sha'ar Zahavniks at the grand opening reception. The exhibit will run from Feb 13-Aug 9.
Friday, February 21
12:45-1:15 pm
Contemporary Jewish Museum: 736 Mission St. 94103
The upcoming exhibition Levi Strauss: A History of American Style includes a pair of denim Sefer Torah mantles, created for Sha’ar Zahav. Avi Goldberg (long-time member of Sha'ar Zahav). Goldberg shares the story behind our unique Torah Mantles and how their history is woven into the fabric of the San Francisco Jewish community.
Propositions – yea or nay?
A pre-election discussion about state
& local propositions
Monday, February 24 at 7:00 pm
If you'd like to get informed on how to vote on propositions in the ballot, or if want to share your opinions, join other Sha’ar Zahav members and friends as we share information about many of the propositions on the ballot. Bring endorsements from your favorite political clubs and media sources, and we’ll have a facilitated discussion that will ease your way into the voting booth. Ora Prochovnick oprochov@gmail.com // Karen Schiller kschiller@igc.org . 
East Bay Havurah Shabbat
Friday, February 28
6:30-9:00 pm
Join us for a vegetarian potluck meal. We'll share blessings and something from our week, sing and eat and enjoy each other. Later in the evening those adults (and teens) who want are invited to continue our Shabbat experience with some text-based meaningful Jewish dialogue. Please bring a vegetarian/vegan dish to share. We'll meet at the home of Jim Frazin in Oakland **for address and to RSVP contact Jim at jf@shibboleth.com or 415-312-1390. The house is scent-free, so please do not wear any scented products.We look forward to sharing Shabbat with you!
Every first Monday of the month for five months beginning in February:
March 2, April 6, May 4 and June 1
7:00-9:00 pm
Facilitated by Ora Prochovnik and Rose Katz
This group will explore issues that arise for people who are considering, are in the process of, or have recently completed, converting to Judaism. Those with a Jewish parent (or parents), but raised with little or no Jewish experience and are interested in exploring their connection to Judaism are also welcome to attend. Topics will include questions of identity, community, and family. This group is not an introduction to Judaism course, but rather a place to ask questions and discuss issues with others who are also on this journey. There is no charge for this group, however, pre-registration is required . For information, or to register, please contact Rose Katz at 415-567-3327 ext. 706 ( rkatz@jewishlearningworks.org ).
Sunday, March 1 at 4:00 pm
Musicians
Randall Weiss, violin
Patricia Whaley, viola
Victoria Ehrlich, cello

Program
String Trio – Gideon Klein
Tanec (Dance) – Hans Krasa
Passacaglia and Fugue – Hans Krasa
Duo for Violin and Viola – Laszlo Weiner
Serenade for String Trio – Ernst von Dohnanyi

Long-time member Randall Weiss and The Bridge Players present the 20th season of Music in the Mishkan on Sundays... mark your calendars! March 1 “Czech It Out”, April 26 “If the Schumann Fits…” All concerts begin at 4:00 p.m., followed by a wine and cheese reception. Don't miss these beautiful concerts in our lovely sanctuary! Reserve Tickets .
 A Holocaust Without Bullets: Italian Fascism and the Jews
Friday, March 6
6:00-7:15 pm
In honor of Shabbat Zachor/Shabbat of Memory Francesco Spagnolo curator of The Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life will share his expertise in the multicultural history of the Jews in Italy, with a focus on Italian Fascism.
SAVE THE DATE!
Gender Schmear 2020
Saturday, March 7
9:00 pm-1:00 am
@Oasis Nightclub
Sunday, March 8 at 4:00 pm
Sha’ar Zahav: 290 Dolores Street
San Francisco Choral Artists (SFCA), in collaboration with the acclaimed Klezmer trio Veretski Pass, apply their trademark imaginative and diverse programming to Jewish music of many styles and periods in Joyful Voices, Stomping Feet: Song and Dance in the Jewish Tradition. Tickets available at the door; or online in advance from www.sfca.org/2019-2020-season. For information: info@sfca.org (415) 494-8149. Under 30 - Advance/Door $12.50/$15.00, Senior - Advance/Door $25.00/$29.00, General - Advance/Door $30.00/$35.00
Purim is coming!
Monday, March 9
5:30-9:00 pm
Purim is our wacky, silly, inappropriate, irreverent, topsy-turvy holiday coming up on the evening of March 9th. Are you into performance? Theater? Comedy? Want to be part of making the holiday come to life? If so, we hope you'll join us! We are also looking for Hamentashen makers to bake with our children -- if you're interested, please contact Sue Bojdak at education@shaarzahav.org .
SAVE THE DATE.... Glimpses of Persian Jewish Life
Thursday, March 12 at 7:00 pm
Jewish Community Library: 1835 Ellis St. SF 94115
Presented by Rabbi Tarlan Rabizadeh and Ron Lezell (long-time member of Sha'ar Zahav). Free program & free parking. More details to come.
Mazel Tov Arthur Slepian
We are very proud to announce that our beloved past president, Arthur Slepian has been elected as the next chair of the board of the Jewish Community Federation of San Francisco.

In addition to his many roles in our congregation, he currently serves as one of our Vice Presidents. While this is a much deserved recognition for his leadership of the Israel Committee of Federation, we can take great pride in his being the first openly LGBTQ board chair in the organization's long history.
 
Arthur also founded A Wider Bridge and served as its first Executive Director. He has brought many people from all walks of life, religions and ethnicities to a greater understanding of Israel.
Ongoing Events
Adult Orphan Friendship Circle
Wednesday, February 12
 6:30-8:00 pm
Second Wednesday of every month
Home Match: Connecting Homeowners with Folks Seeking an Affordable- Place to Live Open to Everyone. See details on event listed above. For more information contact Paisha: paimar@pacbell.net , Marjorie: onceupntym@sbcglobal.net
Saturday, February 15
9:00 am
Every Saturday except B'nei Mitzvah days
Join a lay-led weekly Talmud study group. No experience necessary. For information, contact Jackie Kaplan .
Hiking Chavurah
Saturday, February 15
10:00 am
 Third Saturday of every month
Come see the city from a new perspective with other Sha’ar Zahav members. Then join us for lunch after we complete the days’ hike. Contact Karen Schiller and Ellen Murland for more information!
Board Meeting (Va'ad)
Wednesday, February 19
6:30 pm Dinner, 7:00 pm Meeting
Third Wednesday of every month, open to all members
Our Board of Directors is responsible for expressing the voice of the community. If you’re curious about Sha'ar Zahav's behind the scenes work, come to a Board meeting! Contact president@shaarzahav.org .
Shabbes Beat with Cantor Bernstein
Friday, February 21
7:30 pm
Third Friday of the month
It’s all about that Shabbes groove! Sing, dance, and pray. Joy up, relax, breathe, sway! Join Cantor Sharon and the Shabbes Beat band and chorus at this monthly rock, jazz, Latin, and blues service and get your Shabbes rest on. For more information contact Cantor Bernstein .
Fine Arts for Sha'ar Zahav Members
Drop-Ins Welcome 
Monday, February 24
10:30 am - 1:30 pm
Every Monday except holidays
Bring your art supplies, lunch and parallel play with other creative congregants.If you have any questions, please contact your Fine Art Committee hosts: Paisha: paimar@pacbell.net, Barb: bcymrot@sbcglobal.net, AJ: ajsparkles@gmail.com.
Ritual Committee Meeting
Wednesday, February 26
Contact  ritual@shaarzahav.org . James Carlson will be stepping in to co-chair the Ritual Committee with Ron Edelman, who continues as co-chair. We look forward to Ron's and James's working with our Rabbi, Cantor, and the Ritual Committee in helping to set Sha'ar Zahav's ritual agenda and continuing to strengthen our clergy/lay partnership in service leading and other ritual activities.
Monday, March 2
  6:00 pm
Usually first Monday of the month. 
Everyone welcome! Bring your interests, curiosity, passions, questions.Together we can make a difference. Social Action group sends a warm Thank You for your generous donations of winter clothing for a newly arrived immigrant Honduran family and the Gubbio Project for the homeless. There is continual need for socks, blankets, and travel toiletries.Contact Leah: leaheve@indra.com or Nancy: nwecker@earthlink.net . 
Meditation Group (SF)
Saturday, March 7
10:30 am
First Saturday of every month
Everyone is welcome. Typical session includes a short and longer silent sit, with chanting, movement, and a short teaching. Contact Andy Schwartz for information.
Environmental Justice Group
Monday, March 9
6:30 pm
Generally meets the second MONDAY of every month
Join us as we find ways to protect Earth, from changing our personal habits to reducing our shul’s carbon footprint; from divesting from fossil fuels to supporting local, state, and federal policy changes that can truly make a difference. Come share your ideas and make friends while doing this urgent and sacred work. Contact Terry Fletcher, gillianf19@gmail.com.
Hineni Caring Community
(formerly Bikkur Cholim)
“ Hineni ” is the biblical answer our ancestors gave when God called out to them: “I am present,” or “I am ready.”   Our Hineni Caring Community wants to do what we can to help our members, whether it’s outreach by our clergy or practical assistance from members of our community who can be present for them. Do you have a need or know someone who does? Or can you perform a mitzvah like running an errand, making a visit, offering a ride, or bringing food? Find out how you can help fellow Sha’ar Zahav members by signing up with our online community, or ask any questions about Hineni Caring Community, by contacting us at HineniLeaders@shaarzahav.org
A new, short-term emergency housing program. The Initiative matches congregants experiencing a housing crisis with members who can open their home and serve as a temporary host. If you or someone you know needs urgent housing or if you may be able to offer short-term housing, please contact makom@shaarzahav.org .
A welcoming group focused on fostering Jewish identity in an inclusive social setting for gay, bi, queer, and trans men. Creating social spaces and service opportunities that foster meaningful connections and generate a positive impact in our community. Check out njb-sf.com for upcoming events.
Scents and Sensibility Task-force
A group is helping to build a scent-free Sha’ar Zahav. For information contact Bob Gordon .
Pray
20 Shevat
Yithro

Friday Evening Service - February 14,
7:30 pm 
Led by : Cantor Bernstein & Emery Cohen
Drash : Ami Zusman

Flowers Sponsor(s) : Jerry & Ada Rosenbaum
In memory of Rae Gillis, mother of Ada Rosenbaum (Grandmother of Rabbi Copeland)

Oneg Sponsor(s) : Steve Polsky
In memory of my mother, Elaine Polsky,
& my grandmother, Rachel Polsky 
Oneg Volunteer(s) :
Ann Bauman & Kelly Thiemann
(Including Kelly and Ann’s
Valentine’s Day Chocolate Oneg)
Greeter(s) : Joe Harkman

Saturday Morning Service - February 15, 10:00 am
Led by : Alan Gordon

Kiddush Sponsor(s) : Jeffrey Auman
In memory of my friend, Masha Zakheim

27 Shevat
Mishpatim

Friday Evening Service - February 21,
7:30 pm 
Led by : Cantor Bernstein,
Shabbes Beat Band & Chorus
Drash : Ariel Bernstein Spagnolo

Flowers Sponsor(s) : OPEN
Oneg Sponsor(s) : Gerry Llamado
In honor of Arthur Slepian being elected
chair of SFJCF board
Oneg Volunteer(s) : Trudi White
Greeter(s) : Vaad

Saturday Morning Service - February 22, 10:00 am
Led by : Alan Gordon
& Isaac Lachter (bar mitzvah student)
Contact sharonh@shaarzahav.org to sponsor an oneg, kiddush, or flowers
Community Events
The Institute for Jewish Spirituality is excited to offer a limited number of full scholarships to attend a Jewish mindfulness retreat on
Wednesday-Sunday, March 18-22
Brandeis-Bardin campus of American Jewish University, in Simi Valley CA
These scholarships are provided through the generosity of the Nathan Cummings Foundation in support of the Rabbi Rachel Cowan Scholarship Fund for those with financial need, leadership potential, and who
·     Identify as a Jew of Color
·     Identify as lesbian, gay or bisexual
·     Identify as queer, transgender, or nonbinary
·     Are engaged in social justice activism
·     Between the ages of 18 - 35
·     Come from a Jewish population that has been historically marginalized
Interested applicants should apply by Monday, February 24 , at: https://ijs.regfox.com/rcsf-application (access code: RCSF5780). Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
This retreat is open to all -- beginners as well as those with established mindfulness practices -- and will feature mindfulness meditation, contemplative prayer, yoga and embodied practice, reflective text study, singing, and small group practice, as well as a contemplative Shabbat. Please contact Rabbi Marc Margolius ( marc@jewishspirituality.org ) with questions about the retreat or the scholarship application.
March 22 & 29; 9:00 am-4:00 pm (both sessions must be attended)
Jewish Family and Children’s Services: 2150 Post St. SF 94115
Seniors at Home, a division of Jewish Family and Children’s Services, provides support to older adults and people of all ages who have serious or chronic illness, or are at the end of their lives. Our Palliative Care Service helps people remain in their homes as long as possible and provides them with the information, care, and services that they need. Our community of specially trained Palliative Care Volunteers are a key part of these services, playing a vital role in the lives of JFCS’ Seniors At Home clients and their families. Cost: $180. Full scholarships are readily available. Click here for more information or to apply. Questions? Contact Rabbi Daniel Isaacson at palliative_volunteer@jfcs.org .
Bend the Arc’s national conference will bring together progressive activists and organizers who root their work in Jewish values for three days of learning, connection, and solidarity in Washington DC. Deepen your understanding, expand your skills, prepare for 2020, and seed a vision for the future. Register.
From HamaQom The Place
Do I have to belong to a synagogue to be buried in a Jewish cemetery? How does tahara apply to trans people? What is the etiquette surrounding shiva? What if I can’t afford a burial? Is it okay for Jews to be cremated? If I have tattoos, can I have a Jewish burial? What do I say to someone in mourning? Join us for a series of discussions about the challenging issues surrounding death and dying. Participants can register for any class at any location, and can pick and choose any number of sessions. Sessions are $10 each and run from Feb-Jun 2020. Registration is open until the day before the session. Questions? Please call 510.845.6420 or email us at info@hmqm.org.
Happy Birthday!
Zoe Friedman 2/2
Spencer Fischer 2/2
Shahpour Matloob 2/2
Jacob Robinson 2/3
Ivan Willard 2/4
Denise Gordon 2/4
Ami Zusman 2/5
Andrew Fyne 2/6
Andrew Sullivan 2/6
Erika Katske 2/8
Irene Friedman 2/9
Emily Dorian 2/9
Elias Ross Trupin 2/10
Andrew Berger 2/10
Marion Vera Williamson 2/11
Matthew Zvi Rawlings-Fein 2/12
Leva Choden 2/13
Avi Goldberg 2/13
Avraham Giannini 2/14
Beth Ross 2/14
Irene Ogus 2/14
Lisa DiGirolamo 2/14
Ema Morales-Diaz 2/15
David Lowe 2/16
Adam Best-Leung 2/18
Nancy Muller 2/18
Reuben Friedman 2/18
Steven Mazer 2/19
Jim Edlin 2/20
Hilary Zaid 2/20
Barbara Bergmann 2/20
Andrew Schwartz 2/21
Kirsten Gustavson 2/21
Susan Tubbesing 2/22
You are receiving this email because you expressed interest in Sha'ar Zahav. Be sure to add office@shaarzahav.org to your (email) contacts list so that our communications land in your inbox! All our events take place at Sha'ar Zahav 290 Dolores Street, unless noted otherwise. To unsubscribe, please click on the "Unsubscribe" link at the bottom of this email.