January 21, 2026 ()
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January 21, 2026 ()
Rick and Lisa Birnbaum are a blended family with six children, five grandchildren, one dog, and two cats. Both were born and raised in New York—Brooklyn and the Bronx—and they are longtime, unapologetic Mets fans. That loyalty was on full display at their wedding, officiated by Rabbi Jon, when Rick walked down the aisle to “Meet the Mets.”
They have been members of Kol Tikvah for more than twenty years. The temple has marked many important family milestones, including the Bat Mitzvahs of their daughters, Ella and Sarah.
Lisa is a familiar presence during High Holiday services, often singing with the Cantor. She has also served on the Gala Committee, helping to secure donations for the silent auction. Rick has supported the temple by sharing his financial expertise over the years.
In 2019, Rick and Lisa traveled to Israel with Kol Tikvah, strengthening relationships with fellow congregants and forming new ones. Over time, they have introduced many friends to the Temple community, several of whom have become long-term members.
Karen and Adam Friedman have been devoted members of the Kol Tikvah community since 2006. Karen began her leadership in the Early Childhood Center, later serving on the Board of Trustees, including as Vice President of Membership and Vice President of Development. From 2018–2021, she served as Development Director, co-creating the Hazak Circle Fund and securing in-kind donations that revitalized the Social Hall. She has also helped plan numerous community events and sings with the Kol Tikvah Choir.
Adam has strengthened Kol Tikvah through his technical expertise and constant readiness to serve. He has been active in multiple programs and projects throughout the years: securing $250,000 in security grants, co-designing the temple’s multi-camera livestream system during the pandemic and helping create the Kol Tikvah Poker Tournament. Adam is the person the community relies on.
Together, Karen and Adam are trusted, behind-the-scenes leaders who take on whatever is needed to help Kol Tikvah thrive. They are proud parents of Julian and Liam, who grew up at Kol Tikvah and continue their family’s legacy of commitment, generosity, and community.
Sarae Shenkin and Herb Zweig were longtime members of Temple Emet. Herb joined with his late wife and son in 1973, and Sarae joined with her late husband and two daughters in 1976. All of their children became B’nai Mitzvahs there. Both families left in the mid-1990s as life circumstances changed.
In 2016, they visited Kol Tikvah when Sarae’s granddaughters enrolled in religious school. Sarae and Herb were seeking a spiritual home, believing that communities of worship, learning, and comfort depend on participation across generations. After meeting Rabbi Jon and getting to know the community, they joined and have been very happy with their decision.
Now retired, Herb is a former chemical engineer who enjoys playing piano and bridge. Sarae is a retired special education administrator who volunteers as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for Ventura County and enjoys cooking and gardening.
Kol Tikvah is central to their lives. They were married four years ago, with Rabbi Jon officiating in their backyard. They participate in Torah Study, the Renaissance Group, the Caring Committee, holiday food preparation, Shabbat services, and joined the 2023 Israel Mission. This loving, diverse, and unique temple on a hill is truly their home.
