Volume 22 Number 4 | Tishrei 28, 5781 | October 16, 2020

Living with the Times

By: Rabbi Yeruchem Eilfort

Parshat Beraishit – Genesis

A New Beginning - Again

Last week we celebrated Simchat Torah, and on Simchat Torah we concluded the Torah reading. As is our custom, immediately upon concluding the Torah reading we start it again – from the beginning – again. We have been doing this routine for thousands of years. We review the story, including the wondrous miracles and abject failures. Every. Single. Year.

On a personal note; every year when we read the story of Adam and Eve, Ahdahm and Chava in the Hebrew pronunciation, I cringe at their interactions with The Snake, the embodiment of the evil inclination. I say to myself (or sometimes out loud), “DON’T DO IT!” I practically plead with the first humans to resist the temptation. And once the failure has occurred to take ownership of it and beseech the Almighty for forgiveness.  

Alas, my pleadings have been to no avail as the Torah still reads the same.

Then a thought occurred to me. If I can’t change the story maybe I can change my interpretation of it. If I truly believe that the Torah is meant as a life-affirming, positive gift to humanity (and I truly and heartily believe that to be the case), there are definitely positives to be found in this story, even with its dramatic failures.

Let’s cut to the chase.

Adam and Eve were very special souls, created from the earth by the ‘hands’ of the Almighty. They were infused with the Divine Spirit as, ‘G-d blew into his nostrils a living soul,’ and from Adam fashioned Eve. G-d created the first humans in His ‘image,’ which means they were endowed with a G-dly spark to serve as their soul and the great gift of free choice. It is only by virtue of the fact that we have free choice that we are able to refine and uplift the world in a way that nothing else can.

G-d exercised His free will to create the world. He appointed the ultimate creation, humankind, to refine it, to actually improve upon it. If not for our free will we would be no better than angels or even beasts of the field, who live their lives entirely by instinct. We, however, are different. We CHOOSE to serve G-d. And it is precisely this free choice that makes all of the difference in the world.

This year when reading the portion of Genesis I will focus on the free choice bestowed upon the first humans. When I do I will remember that their free choice, meaning ultimately OUR free choice, is what this entire creative process is about. G-d loves us because of our free choice, even when we use it incorrectly. It behooves us to use our mistakes as building blocks for improvement and progress in our personal relationship with Hashem.

Wishing everyone a happy and HEALTHY Shabbos!

Rabbi Yeruchem Eilfort is Director of Coastal Chabads and Chabad at La Costa. Rabbi Eilfort welcomes readers’ comments and questions and may be reached at [email protected].

Haftarah Parshat Beraishit

Isaiah 42:5-21.

The haftorah of this week's reading opens with a statement by "the Almighty G‑d, who created the heavens and stretched them out, who laid out the earth and made grow from it." This echoes the Torah portion's recounting of the creation of the world in six days.

G‑d speaks to the prophet Isaiah, reminding him of his life's purpose and duty, namely that of arousing the Jewish people to return to being a light unto the nations, "To open blind eyes, to bring prisoners out of a dungeon; those who sit in darkness out of a prison."

The prophecy continues with a discussion regarding the Final Redemption, and the song that all of creation will sing to G‑d on that day. G‑d promises to punish all the nations that have persecuted Israel while they were exiled. The prophet also rebukes Israel for their errant ways, but assures them that they will return to the correct path and will be redeemed.

This is a synopsis of the Haftorah that is read in Chabad synagogues. Other communities could possibly read more, less, or a different section of the Prophets altogether. Additionally, specific calendrical conditions can cause another Haftorah to be read instead of this one.

 

NEW TIME - Weekly Sermon Friday @ 3pm on Facebook Live

Join Rabbi Eilfort this afternoon at 3pm as he gives his weekly sermon as a Facebook Live event. If you have not already done so, please send Rabbi Eilfort (Yeruchem Eilfort) a Friend Request on Facebook!

Shabbat Services are Inside OR Outside! It is YOUR Choice!

We continue to offer services indoors with available seating in the Breezeway, which is consistent with all governmental, rabbinic, and Chabad standards. Actually, we are exceeding many of the protocols so as to make the environment safe.

Please note that we have invested heavily so as to be able to open up safely and comfortably.

Below please find our safety rules:

Masks must be worn at all times while on campus other than when eating (masks available).

Hands must be washed with soap or sanitized upon entry and should be regularly while here.

Social distancing must be maintained at all times. No exceptions and no physical contact.

If you have been exposed to anyone with the virus within the last 14 days, those with symptoms, or those whose doctors advise them not to participate, should not, under any circumstances, come to shul. But rather should pray at home.

If you plan on joining us on Shabbos please let us know by responding to this message.

First Shabbos of the Year

We expect a lower than normal turn out for services this week and can really use YOUR help. Join us on Saturday at 10am for Shabbos Services.

Working Car (still) Needed

We are currently seeking a car in good mechanical condition. If you, or someone you know, has a car that you can donate please respond to this message. This request is time sensitive. Thank you in advance!

Seeking Room to Rent

Single female seeking a room to rent. Please contact Rabbi with leads.

FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER - Tuition Free Hebrew School

Due to the economic hardships created by the pandemic we will be offering Tuition Free Hebrew School this year. Families are struggling to make ends meet, but we cannot allow the children to suffer. We are offering two options – In-person learning (outdoor and indoor classes, socially distant, masks on), and virtual learning. Please respond to this message for further information. We are the only synagogue in the county making such an offer! Morah Chaya has worked diligently to create an amazing curriculum that will educate and inspire our students. Our teachers will always offer lots of positive reinforcement to the students so that they will not only learn, but they will ENJOY the EXPERIENCE! Please get back to us and let your friends know.

Pay-What-You-Can-Membership

We want the membership experience to be positive. We want you to feel GOOD about giving. Yes, we have suggested donations, but you should give what you feel you can afford. If you cannot comfortably give the suggested amount THAT IS OK. If you can give more than the suggested amount, THANK YOU, IT IS APPRECIATED! We  love and appreciate your participation, and that is that. Please fill out our Membership form online by logging onto: www.ChabadatLaCosta.com/Membership. 

Calendar Arrived!

We hope you received your calendar in the mail. It seems that some of them came unstapled! Please stop in and pick up a new one. The bulk boxes have also arrived this week if you would like to pick up an extra calendar.  

Jewish Family Services Food Drive – Let’s Help!

Jewish Family Services is trying to collect food for their annual Food Drive. Their goal is to be able to collect at least 30,000 pounds of food, 15,000 pounds of which they have already collected. Those who would like to participate please respond to this message. It would be very nice if our community can pitch in with this worthy goal! Drop of your donation on the bench outside the shul and we will collect it.

No Chicken Soup & Challah this Week

We are extraordinarily proud of the fact that we have provided chicken soup and challah from the beginning of the pandemic. During this time we have distributed thousands of challahs and servings of soup, at no cost, to our community and those in need. We have been able to do this due to the generosity of our sponsors (best in the world!) and our outstanding volunteers. Let’s face it; we are blessed to have such a beautiful community!

We are on for Chicken Soup and Challah THIS Week

Those who live near Chabad at La Costa are welcome to let us know if you want some delicious Challah and/or Chicken Soup delivered to you on Friday to help you celebrate Shabbat in the most delicious way possible. If you can help with deliveries, reach out to Kayla or Nechama.

Please note that all food is prepared and delivered using recommended safeguards.

Sponsors Appreciated (And Needed)

These are extraordinary times. Many people are reaching out for help and, Baruch Hashem / thank G-d, we are HERE to help! ‘We’ means YOU and US, TOGETHER. It is an amazing partnership that we have!

We are extremely grateful to those who have reached out to help fund us, enabling us to serve others.

We would like to specifically acknowledge at this time:

Channah Hale for her generous sponsorship of the Challahs. Channah has been absolutely phenomenal in her generous sponsorships! We thank her for her kindness and love. 

We are seeking additional sponsors for the following dedications:

Next week’s Loaves of Love.

Next week’s Chicken soup.

Next week’s Torah classes.

Note About Sponsorships

You may have noticed that we seek multiple sponsors for the Challah, Soup, and Torah classes. We do this because we need to find ways to cover our budgetary shortfall that has been caused by the coronavirus. The donations coming to the shul have been dramatically reduced. We greatly appreciate those of you who are still supporting us! G-d bless you! We greatly appreciate your understanding as we seek ways of propping up the income necessary to keep things afloat. Your ideas about additional income streams are likewise greatly appreciated!

Ways to Give

We would be nowhere without the generous support of our community. Please know that your support is profoundly appreciated!

There are many ways to donate besides for checks and cash. Following please find a list of the various other ‘platforms’ that are available for secure donations that go directly and entirely into the synagogue account.

1. PayPal   [email protected]  or PayPal.me/Neilfort

2. Venmo @Nechama-Eilfort

3. Cashapp $nechamae

4. Zelle (Bank of America)  [email protected]

5. Personal credit card   chabadatlacosta.com/donate

Easy Fundraising Opportunity

First, let us take this opportunity to thank all of those who have had  Facebook Birthday Fundraisers for Chabad at La Costa! I cannot tell you how much Nechama & I appreciate it! The money we have received through these fundraisers has helped our shul continue with programming, delivering soup and challah as well as other activities. 

Do you have a birthday coming up? We would be honored if you would consider making our shul the recipient of your birthday fundraiser.  Wouldn’t it be wonderful to celebrate your birthday and do a wonderful Mitzvah at the same time? Thank you for your consideration and Happy Birthday!  

NEW TIME - Weekly Sermon Friday @ 3pm on Facebook Live

Join Rabbi Eilfort this afternoon at 3pm as he gives his weekly sermon as a Facebook Live event. If you have not already done so, please send Rabbi Eilfort (Yeruchem Eilfort) a Friend Request on Facebook!

Havdala Live with Rabbi Yossi (Sunday this week.)

Join Rabbi Yossi Rodal on Facebook Live on Sunday night at 7:30pm for a meaningful Havdalah service. Following Havdalah Rabbi Yossi will share an uplifting Chasidic story as is traditional on Saturday night.

Daily & Weekly Classes

Join us, at no cost, on Facebook Live (must friend request Yeruchem Eilfort if you are not already my friend) and be a member of the Chabad at La Costa Facebook page for ongoing classes in Chasidic Philosophy, Caffeine for the Soul, Torah Portion of the Week, Positivity Bias, Holiday Overviews, and much more. Torah study is THE way to keep the soul charged! 

 

 

OUR HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES are extended to the families of the victims of the coronavirus! We pray for the day when the Almighty will remove death and suffering from humanity. May it come speedily in our day!

SPEEDY RECOVERY wishes are extended to all of those who are suffering from the coronavirus. May you be granted a complete and speedy recovery! 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY wishes go out to Amanda Carolyn Brown, Sheila Lebovitz, and all of those celebrating their birthdays this week!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY wishes go out to all of those celebrating their anniversaries this week!

WE REMEMBER Reb Isaac Weksler, Morris Teshuba, Anna Kupchin, Yitzchak Nejathaim, Misha Galperin, Bernard Polonsky, Rose Lewis and all of those whose Yarzeit is observed this week.

May Channah Hale, Sheila Lebovitz, Camille Stern, Adam Lemberger, Sandy Radom and Roz Mintz be blessed with a speedy and complete recovery!

We have an ever-expanding menu of online learning opportunities for everyone. Below please find an overview of our current classes and a schedule of when you can join in on Facebook Live. If you miss the live class you can watch the recorded version, either on Facebook or on YouTube (our channel is called the Chabad Virtual Academy).

If you cannot get the classes online please email us at  [email protected] and we will work out a different arrangement.

Rabbi Eilfort Published Weekly by the San Diego Jewish World

Our own Rabbi Eilfort is submitting weekly columns on the Torah Portion of the Week and other subjects, which are published by the San Diego Jewish World ( www.SDJewishWorld.com).

Rabbi Eilfort always enjoy hearing feedback about his articles, so please don’t be shy!

Please check the shul’s Facebook page for information on live broadcasts.  

https://www.facebook.com/ChabadatLaCosta

Belonging to a Jewish Community is not only gratifying and fulfilling it is also extremely important, for within the community one finds a place to connect with G-d and one’s soul, a place of learning and spiritual enrichment, a great source of friends, a place to bestow one’s Jewish legacy upon his or her child/ren, and so much more. Check out   www.ChabadatLaCosta.com to learn more. 

The beauty of OUR Jewish Community is that we offer so many different options that everyone is sure to find something enriching and meaningful. Below please find a partial list of some of our current offerings. If you have never come by before pick an item or two and try it out. If you have already tried an item or two find another one that sounds interesting and give it a whirl. “Connection” – that is the name of the game and that is precisely what you will find here! 

*Daily Minyan   *Shabbat Services   *Weekly Kiddush Luncheon   *Mysticism Classes   *Torah Portion Class   *Hebrew School   *Bar/Bat Mitzvah Training   *Mommy and Me   *Family Friday Night Services and Dinner   *Women’s Group   *Youth Activities   *Pastoral Counseling   *Holiday Programming   *Community Meals   *Hospital Visitation   *Weekly Email Updates   *Hospital Visitation   *Mezuzah Campaign   *Jewish Heritage Workshops   *Jewish Learning Institute Affiliate *www.JewishEncinitas.com *Chabad of Carlsbad N

 

Need a Minyan?

If you need a Minyan to say Kaddish please give the office at least a few days’ notice. We are happy to provide this important service, but it takes time to arrange enough participants to assure the quorum is present. Please email  [email protected] your request.

Shabbat Services with Meaning & Joy

Every Saturday we get together to celebrate the holy Shabbat in song and prayer. Our services are both traditional and user-friendly, as we fully recognize that not everyone has experience ‘Davening’ (praying) in a traditional setting. What those who have joined have found is that the atmosphere in our synagogue is conducive to meaningful meditation. A knowledge of Hebrew is not necessary to participate. In fact, the only thing that is needed is the desire to learn and to connect to the Almighty. It is an enriching experience not to be missed! Shabbat services begin at 10am and conclude at approximately 12:30pm and are followed by a wonderful community lunch. There is no cost to attend and reservations are not needed.

Hebrew School & C-Kids

Hebrew School Theme this Week: A Home For Hashem

Give your children the Jewish education that they deserve! Our Sunday Hebrew School offers lots of hands-on activities and positive reinforcement. Students learn Hebrew language skills, Jewish living and observance, Jewish history, and so much more! We include arts & crafts, field trips, and holiday programming to make their experience even more enjoyable. Your child will have fun as he or she gains an appreciation for the ‘why’s and ‘how’s of Judaism. Currently Distance Learning with Zoom! Our students want to be here!

Please contact our Hebrew School Director, Morah Chaya Eilfort for info at   [email protected].

Omni La Costa Resort Welcomes Chabad at La Costa Guests

We are pleased that our world-famous neighbor, the Omni La Costa Resort, has extended a special program offering all sorts of perks to those who book using the ‘Chabad’ code when booking. The special terms include the lowest room rate available, a reduced resort fee of $15.00 (normally $28.00) and complimentary self-parking (savings of $18.00 per car per day).  The resort’s deposit requirement is waived for Chabad guests as well as the three-day cancellation policy.  Chadad guests may cancel until 6pm on the day of arrival to avoid a charge of one night’s room and tax.

To book your room at the special Chabad rate, call toll-free 800-854-5000 or book online at   http://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/san-diego-la-costa/meetings/chabad.  Or you can find more information or book through our website:   www.ChabadatLaCosta.com. Follow the link for Visitor Information.

More than 500 people use the Chabad code each year ! Many people have expressed gratitude at having such world-class facilities in such close and convenient proximity to our Shul, and the joy at being to stay at the Omni and walk to Chabad for Shabbat services.

 

Create Your Jewish Legacy Plan for the Future - NOW

We have been blessed with life! Yet, we know that no one lives forever. This begs the question, “What will  your legacy be?” Most of us have children, and they certainly should figure prominently into our plans. But our children are only a part of what we leave behind. Just as we endeavor to give Tzedakah generously, so as to selflessly make the world a better place while we are alive, so too we need to make sure that we leave a percentage of our estates for the benefit of others. Judaism tells us that it is incumbent upon us to leave the world better than when we found it. We do this by giving Tzedakah.

We can help.

Many people do not prepare appropriately for the inevitable. They do not leave a will, or even if they do it is not consistent with Jewish Law. If one wants his body to be handled with the respect and care mandated by Jewish Law or if one wants the funeral service conducted according to Jewish Law, it must be arranged in advance. Don’t leave these critical details to luck!

Contact Rabbi Eilfort for a private appointment so these important matters can be handled how you want. Send a personal email to   [email protected] to schedule an appointment today. Click here for a Declaration of Intent and more information.

 

Memorial Plaques & Tree of Life Plaques Available

Our beautiful Memorial Boards have been installed. We specifically designed our custom-built bookcases to ‘frame’ each of the boards. The first Memorial Board was dedicated by the Brunelle Family, the second Board was dedicated by the Alter Family, and the new Board has been dedicated by Miriam Reisman in memory of her husband, Harold.

We are currently offering Memorial Plaques to those who wish to perpetually honor the memory of a loved one in a most dignified and permanent manner. Those who dedicate Memorial Plaques will also receive yearly reminders of the Yarzeit and the light on the Board will be illuminated each year on the Yarzeit.

We also have a gorgeous Tree of Life dedicated by the Lieberman Family that has been ‘growing’. The purpose of the plaques on the Tree of Life is to commemorate joyous occasions (like Bar/Bat Mitzvah, anniversaries, special birthdays, weddings etc.).

The donation is only $500 per plaque for the Memorial Board or $180 for the Tree of Life. Those who wish to participate should send an email to   [email protected], or call Rabbi Eilfort at 760-943-8891.

Shul Etiquette

Those who join us regularly for Shabbat services will agree that we have something very special going. The family-friendly atmosphere is unique and most inviting. We welcome everyone as though he/she is a long time member of the family.

At the same time it is important to remember that we are a synagogue. Our sanctuary is meant to be a place where it is conducive to finding inner peace and tranquility. That is why the Rabbis have many laws concerning the decorum of a shul.

It is appropriate to dress modestly and to dress somewhat formally in shul. Men should wear button down shirts, slacks (no jeans or shorts), with jackets and even ties when possible. Of course the head is to be kept covered at all times. Women should wear skirts that go past the knees and blouses with high neck lines and sleeves that cover the elbows. Married women should wear hats and the like.

Children must be supervised at all times by the parents except during Junior Congregation (11:30am). While we want the children to have a great time together it is also important that they do not become so wild and/or boisterous that they disturb those of us who are participating in the services.

We must remember that we should walk to shul and never park in the parking lot if there already eight cars parked. Finally, and we fully realize this goes against Jewish DNA, it is appropriate to come to shul ON TIME. While we know everyone is vying to be counted as the 10th, we are equally sure Hashem will give extra credit to those who come ON TIME at 10am (not to be confused with 11:30). We look forward to seeing you here!

Cell Phones & Chatting During Services

Needless to say the sanctuary on Shabbat or holidays is a place that must be conducive to reflective prayers and serenity. To help keep it this way, please refrain from engaging in any conversations during services and please do not bring in your cell phone. Thank you for your cooperation.

Critical Maintenance Issue – Your Cooperation Needed

PLEASE NOTE: The ONLY thing that may be flushed is toilet paper – NO EXCEPTIONS. This means tissue, baby wipes, paper towels, or any other product may NEVER be flushed, but instead must be disposed of in the provided trash receptacles.

THANK YOU for your cooperation!

Tzedakah news – Planning for your 2020 taxes

Happy news for those wanting to enroll their child in one of Chabad’s K-12 schools, and who have started saving for their children’s college tuition using a 529 College Savings plan. Tax law passed in 2017 allows those parents (and others) to withdraw money to pay for private school K-12 tuition. You can withdraw up to $10,000 annually, tax free.

Rina Coleman is an Enrolled Agent with more than 20 years experience preparing taxes for all walks of life. Please contact her at affordable.tax.prep4u@gmail.com for a free 15 minute consultation.

Marc Nimetz Farmers Insurance

It's almost all the same, until you have a claim!

Marc Nimetz
Farmers Insurance                                                
15644 Pomerado Road, Suite 104                                  
Poway, CA 92064
License #0H35885
858-866-8147 (Office)
858-603-4961 (Cell)
858-815-6930 (Fax)

Your Chabad Real Estate Agent & Mortgage Broker

Jonathan Rozansky is a licensed realtor and mortgage professional.

Whether you are Selling, Buying or Refinancing your home, do not proceed without calling Jonathan Rozansky first.  Jonathan will look out for your best interest and can answer all your real estate and financing questions.   Call for a free market analysis report today.

Jonathan Rozansky
Direct   (619) 392-1234
[email protected]
www.rozanskyteam.com

DRE. # 01754457
NMLS ID : 315987

Center for Hormonal Health and Well-Being

Center for Hormonal Health and Well-Being ">is a personalized, proactive, patient-centered medical practice with a unique focus on Integrative Endocrinology. Dr. Danielle Weiss takes a holistic approach to the patient and their health condition. She harnesses the physical, social, and spiritual aspects of healing. Dr. Weiss prides herself on spending time truly listening to your concerns and needs. She uses a team approach to develop a plan to address these issues together.     http://www.centerforhormonalhealth.com/

Ron Lewis Insurance Services

www.MedigapExpress.com
[email protected]
760-525-5769 - Cell
866-718-1600 - Toll-free

Specializing in Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Insurance! 

• As an independent agent, I work with ALL the major insurance carriers.

• Let me do the shopping for you!

• I will save you money on your insurance premiums.

• Call me for a free, no-obligation quote.

• References available upon request.

Neal Sperling Business Development

Highly talented, highly experienced business development/marketing consultant to wide range of businesses and non-profits can help you to find innovative new ways to raise money, launch, brand, market, sell, merchandise, and promote your products, services, and organization. Has written and improved wide variety of business plans, marketing plans, obtained major grants/new funding for a wide variety of ventures. Has unique ability to study most any business, quickly and creatively identify new sources of potential revenue, reduce costs, increase efficiencies, and drive more sales in the quickest time frames. Recognized expert on how to drive new sales via the internet. Acclaimed speaker to Southern California business groups, and particularly known for being a great “connector” with ability to introduce you to a wide variety of hard-to-reach decision-makers in various fields. Strong background in consumer products, medical products, high tech, "clean tech," "green" products, non-profits, much more. Call for details: cell: 818-219-9585.

Dream Home Cinema

*Family Room Surround
*Wholesale House Audio
*Home Automation

Joseph Markowitz: 760-415-8742  [email protected]

Pammy's Pony Parties and Petting Zoos

I am a small Jewish farmer running my business in La Costa  called Pammy's Pony Parties and Petting Zoo. I arrive with my animals at little children's birthday parties, senior homes,  graduation parties, and resorts in the area, to share my love of animals. I also do animal therapy with children and adults. Fantastic!! Call me to make an appointment or set up a birthday party.

Pam Glickman 760-535-5293

Cost Effective Advertising Available HERE

Hundreds of people see Chabad at La Costa's Weekly Email Update. Those who are looking to effectively promote their business and at the same time support this important community resource are invited to become sponsors for only $50 per month (that's per MONTH, not per week). Call Rabbi Eilfort at 760-943-8891 to get your message out there.