Synagogue Wins 'Energy Oscar'

Temple Judea, a reform Jewish congregation in the West San Fernando Valley, has been named a finalist for an "Energy Oscar" award by California Interfaith Power & Light (CIPL) in recognition of its "green" efforts in a recent multi-million dollar rebuilding project. CIPL works with thousands of congregations across the state on energy efficiency, renewable energy, education and advocacy, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

"Since we began initial discussions nearly 10 years ago to expand and rebuild our Tarzana campus, our focus has been on community responsibility with energy conservation as an key ingredient of that commitment," explained Temple Executive Director Ellen Franklin.

Following an extensive feasibility study and wide-ranging interview process, the synagogue hired well-known San Francisco architects Herman Coliver and Locus in 2007 who were extremely experienced in synagogue design. Additionally, temple leaders worked closely with the Tarzana Neighborhood Council Land Use Committee to review the plans and gain their full approval on the project.

Throughout the two-year construction period, temple leaders were committed to making their new synagogue as "green" as possible and enacted a comprehensive series of energy efficiency and environmental measures in the new building.

Some of these features include:

• On-site storm water infiltration pit which prevents storm water from entering and polluting city streets and sewers,
• 25% fly ash content in concrete mix, in lieu of cement, reducing greenhouse gases,
• Formaldehyde-free plywood,
• High efficiency heating and cooling systems,
• Thermal Break aluminum window frames with low-e coating,
• Bamboo flooring, a rapidly renewable source,
• Low VOC paints,
• Drought-tolerant, locally-sourced planting including original San Fernando Valley citrus trees and an edible vegetable garden.

"The rebuilding project has enabled Temple Judea to enhance its mission of being a holy space where all congregants have a place of their own to be comfortable, to gather, to grow, to be safe, to learn and to strengthen their ties to Judaism," said Rabbi Don Goor.

Temple Judea will be presented with its award by CIPL at the "Energy Oscars" ceremony on Tuesday, November 15, at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco. CIPL's goal with the program is to activate California's faith communities by providing them with links and referrals to local sources of energy audits, building improvements, and solar panel installation.

Temple Judea, 5429 Lindley Ave. Tel: 818-758-3800.