Rabbi Steven A. Chester of Temple Sinai in Oakland was awarded an honorary doctorate of divinity at the Los Angeles campus of Hebrew Union College during annual commencement exercises. He has been the synagogue's spiritual leader since 1989, and is currently the president of the Jewish Community Relations Council of the Greater East Bay. He is the former president of the Pacific Association of Reform Rabbis, a member of the Human Relations Committee of the city of Oakland and board member of the Summit Hospital Medical Center.

Drumming, singing class to start June 12

Chochmat HaLev will offer a three-week course in drumming and singing as part of the Jewish spiritual path at 7 p.m. Wednesday June 12, 19 and 26 at 2525 Eighth St., Suite 13, Berkeley.

Teachers will be musicians Bon Brown and Jhos Ceapach Choinn.

No previous musical experience is required and instruments will be provided for those who do not have their own. Classes will be limited to 20 students. Cost is $10 per class. For information, call (510) 704-9687.