Judging from the reaction of over 200 congregants who participated in PTS's first Synaplex Shabbat, on Oct. 30-31, 2009, this was an experience worth repeating -- and will be. The next is scheduled for March 26, 2010.

As one member of the PTS family put it: "This was one of the best programs we have offered at PTS. I feel energized and I hope we'll do it more often."

Said another: "During the recent focus groups we were asked, 'What was the greatest thing we would tell a friend about PTS?' Today, my answer would be Synaplex Shabbat. For me and my family, it was a home run."

The weekend began with "Kabbalat Shabbat," during which one could opt for a Rabbi Ettlinger and Cantor Reich-led Musical Shabbat Service, or a Family-Oriented Shabbat Service, led by Rabbi Feder and song leader/story teller Ira Levin.

Following Shabbat dinner, congregants chose from among a variety of study, story and song programs, including: Holiness in Time with Rabbi Feder; Kumsitz & Stories with Cantor Reich and Patti Moskovitz; Shabbat for Teenagers with Rabbi Ettlinger and Teen Youth Advisor Nufar Inbar-Valko; and Jewish Tales & Skits with Ira Levin.

The evening concluded with a yummy Ice Cream Social Oneg Shabbat, co-sponsored by Sholom Women.

Saturday morning began with Parashat Hashavuah, during which Rabbi Feder explored key Torah portions of the week, followed by the Lay-Led and Sephardic Minyans; a Torah Trek, led by Rabbi Ettlinger; and a Torah Service, led by Rabbi Feder and Cantor Reich. The day concluded with a Potluck Lunch.

Past President Karen Wisialowski, who heads up the Lifelong Learning at PTS program, and chaired the event, heaped praise on her committee members -- Steve Bloom, Rose Calander, Liz Gottfried, Robin Karp, Kathryn Karp and Scott Stokes.

She asked those who attended to provide their feedback to PTS Executive Director Amy Mallor on what they thought of the event and their ideas for future programs. Those who would like to join the Synaplex Shabbat Committee are asked to contact Amy at amallor@sholom.org or 650-697-2266.