Click on this link to see how much power we are generating, and how we are reducing our carbon footprint.
In 2007 the B'nei Mitzvah Class of 5768 brainstormed ideas for a class Tikkun Olam project. They came up with the idea of getting solar PV panels for the synagogue's roof. It would take reduce the shul's carbon footprint and its utility bill. The class did some research, and presented their plan to the Board of Directors. They determined how much it would cost to get panels installed, and compared it with the long-term savings. They had planned on raising some of the money that would be required to get the project going.
Then the adults took over and formed a committee, which of course slowed down the project quite a bit. There were many options to solar panel installation, including reduced and no-cost installations that would eliminate the need to raise money, but would result in less saving on a monthly basis. There were quite a few companies that started to appear which had a solution "just right" for us. After multiple presentations, spreadsheets and changes in the committee, an agreement was finally reached with Solar City, which installs and finances solar projects throughout the region. Installation began in late August of 2011.
Please join us for a short ribbon-cutting ceremony in
honor of Sinai's new solar commitment, followed by a community luncheon
and sustainable food & energy social action event.
Sunday, November 6, 12:00-1:30 pm
12:00 Solar Roof Dedication and Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for the new solar panels
12:30 Lunch (using locally-grown produce) & Presentation by Full Circle Farm in Sunnyvale
• Pop quiz for children and adults on food and energy conservation!
• Planting demonstration to kick off the new Sinai Nursery School garden
• Learn about Sinai volunteering opportunities at Full Circle Farm
All ages welcome!
No need to RSVP.
In partnership with Full Circle Farm
To see full-size images, right-click on each photo and select your browser's option to view the image.
Watch Scott Budman's report on houses of worship going solar, featuring Rabbi Berkenwald (aired Nov. 3rd, 2011).
The
laws of Kashrut are a large part of living a Jewish life. The Torah
regards the dietary laws as a discipline in holiness and
spirituality. Here at Congregation Sinai, we are proud to be active
participants in this practice, within the walls of the synagogue and
for many of us in our homes as well. Out of respect for these
traditions the following procedures are provided to assure that these
standards are maintained.
The
Sinai kitchen is kosher. While members or pre-approved caterers
hired by members are welcome to use the kitchen, such use implies
consent to uphold the standards of Kashrut set forth. Sinai’s
kitchen is under the authority and supervision of Rabbi Joshua
Berkenwald and any questions should be directed to him.
Rabbi
Berkenwald is the mara d'atra of Congregation Sinai, and is
charged with setting halakhic standards and issuing rulings for all
questions of Jewish law that arise. This includes determining and
communicating the kashrut policy. Please feel free to contact
Rabbi Berkenwald for additional guidance if you’d like to learn
more about Kashrut observance.
