PADS For the past two years, as part of our effort to brighten the holiday season for our homeless PADS guests, we have distributed gift cards which have been so generously donated by our congregants. The response to this gesture has been so enthusiastic that we are hoping to make it an annual tradition.

We are asking, once again, that you open your hearts (and pocketbooks!) to the homeless of DuPageCounty, and purchase $10.00 gift certificates from any of the following: Dominick's, Jewel, Target, Wal-Mart, or Walgreen's. Fast food establishments (McDonalds, Quizno's, Subway, etc) are also always enjoyed.

Get a double bang for your buck: If you purchase the cards through the Etz Chaim Manna sale, you'll also be donating to the synagogue without any additional expense! The next Manna order is due December 9th and will be ready for pickup on December 12^th.

Any amount that you can afford will be appreciated. Please send them or bring them to the temple office, in an envelope marked "PADS Holiday gifts."

Thank you in advance, Karen Friedman & Allan Carter

Rabbi's "Intro to Bible" Class Begins in February

Rabbi Bob will be teaching an "Introduction to Bible" course at Elmhurst College on Wednesday evenings beginning February 6th. The Biblical texts will be explored using scholarly, literary, and traditional approaches. The class will look at what these texts meant to the original authors, what they have meant throughout the centuries, and what they mean today. Etz Chaim members can audit this class.

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"Intro to Judaism" Class to be Offered at Etz Chaim

The Union for Reform Judaism will be sponsoring an "Intro to Judaism" class for those who are interested in learning more about Judaism. Classes will take place on Sunday afternoons from 12:30-2:30 PM starting January 13th and run through May 18th.

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Meet the New Temple Administrator

Carol Meyer began working as the new temple administrator this week. We wish her great success in this position. Stop in the office and introduce yourself. You can get to know a little about Carol here.

Sisterhood Lunch - December 13th

It's time for another lunch with the ladies. All are welcome to join us. We will be meeting on Thursday, December 13th at 11:30 AM for lunch at Caponata's Ristorante, 100 North Hale, Wheaton. For more info or RSVP: ginacarter201@yahoo.com

OSRUI Spring Programs

In addition to summer camp, OSRUI offers a variety of programs throughout the year. Spring programs include a writer's workshop, a weekend for quilters, a Shabbat for young adults, and others. You might find one is just right for you.

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DuPage United Delegate Assembly Meeting

DuPage County Budget cuts will have far-reaching negative effects. Recently, DuPage United held its Delegate Assembly at our temple. Over a dozen congregants were among the 115 attending. The purpose of the meeting was to look at the changes/trends in the region, results of the County's shortsighted planning, and to learn what's needed for DuPage United to be a stronger force in DuPage County. Many in attendance were very surprised by the proposed DuPage County budget cuts. If you have not seen them, you too may be surprised. If you are, please call or email your county board member to voice your concern.

Mah Jongg Cards

Attention all Mah Jongg players: Sisterhood is now taking orders for 2008 Mah Jongg cards. The costs are $6.50 for a standard card and $7.50 for large print. The deadline for sending the order in is February 1st. Please email Kathy Herbach at kathleen.herbach@gmail.com with the number of cards you wish to order. Checks can be made out to Congregation Etz Chaim Sisterhood. Thank you!

Book Club Groups Forming

books The Adult Ed committee is organizing a new book club which will start meeting in January. Information about meeting times, book choices and sign-up is available on our website.