MONTH XXXX/MONTH XXXX Chadashot SAVE THE DATE! DECEMBER 2014 KISLEV/TEVET 5775 VOLUME 42NUMBER 5 SCHEDULE OF SERVICES MESSAGE FROM Rabbi Weiss December 5 6:30 Erev Shabbat of Song and Story Grade 3 Shabbat Family Experience December 6 Join the Conversation on December 12 at a Special Shabbat for Gun Violence Prevention 10:30 am Shabbat Service Bat Mitzvah: Maya Sachs 5:30 pm Shabbat Service Bar Mitzvah: Max Mirkin In September, the District of Columbia Council voted unanimously to allow people to carry concealed handguns in the nation's capital for the first time in nearly 40 years. The Washington Post reported that those seeking a concealed-carry permit would have to complete a more extensive safety course than what is required for gun owners. Non-residents would also be able to get licenses if they meet the same standards. Open carrying of firearms would remain illegal. The city's police chief would decide whether people have a compelling reason to carry a concealed firearm. People who have received death threats or have been the victims of domestic violence are among those who could be granted permits. There are 3250 registered handguns in the District. Maryland has already had a policy of allowing its citizens to own either open or concealed weapons. December 12 6:30 pm Tot Shabbat 7:30 pm Erev Shabbat Service December 13 10:30 am Shabbat Service Bar Mitzvah: Evan Morris 10:30 am Shabbat Chapel Service December 19 6:30 pm Spirit of Shabanukkah December 20 10:30 am Shabbat Service Bar Mitzvah: Josh Rubin December 26 7:30 pm Erev Shabbat Service December 27 10:30 am Shabbat Service Bat Mitzvah: Hannah Meit January 2 6:30 pm Shabbat of Song and Stor January 3 10:30 am Shabbat Service While I know that owning a gun is a constitutional right, it is alarming to witness gun violence in our communities with more frequency. In October, we witnessed in horror as gunmen in Ottawa shot soldiers in front of memorials CONTINUED ON PAGE Sunday Minyans, 10:30 am 16 WELL DONE This year we donated 4281 pounds of food to the Manna Food Center to help feed our neighbors in Montgomery County. Together with other synagogues, 31,362 pounds were donated to Manna to help restock the shelves. The impact of the economic decline is still being felt by many in our community. Thank you for your generosity. For more information about the wonderful programs provided through Manna, go to www.mannafood,.org MESSAGE FROM TABLE OF CONTENTS President’s Message 2 Coming this Month 3-4 Tikkun Olam 5 Simchas 5 Brotherhood 6 Women of TBA 7 TBANS 8 B’nai Mitzvah Profiles 9 Simchas 9 Machane TBA 10 Shaliach 11 Photo Review 12 - 13 Committees 14 Glimpse of January 15 Ongoing 16 & 18 Sunshine 20 -22 Holiday 23 Advertising 24 - 31 Chadashot Published monthly by TEMPLE BETH AMI MEMBER UNION FOR REFORM JUDAISM 14330 TRAVILAH ROAD ROCKVILLE, MARYLAND 20850-3527 TEMPLE OFFICE 301.340.6818 FAX 301.738.0094 www.bethami.org HOURS: MON-THURS FRI SAT SUN 9:00 AM - 6:00 9:00 AM - 3:00 CLOSED CLOSED PM PM RELIGIOUS SCHOOL 301.340.8335 FAX 301.610.6239 NURSERY SCHOOL 301.762.5594 BROADCAST SYSTEM 301.308.3834 LIVE STREAMING WWW.BETHAMI.ORG Tom Temin, President What Dogs Teach Us About Audacious Hospitality One of my Saturday late-morning rituals (after Torah study) is walking our dog, an 11-year-old greyhound. We traversed the big park not far from our house. She’s old, and her face has turned entirely white. Yet she’s still got plenty of energy. Other dog walkers – often the same people at the same times – offer greetings while the dogs get re-acquainted with some thorough mutual sniffing. We know dozens of neighbors we never would have known had it not been for dog-walking. Often there are several kids’ soccer or baseball games going on, and invariably, children come over and want to pet Lizzie, which she patiently obliges, usually giving them a sniff in the face. Often I hear a bit about a child’s life and what kind of dog they have. When it comes to hospitality, we can learn a thing or two from dogs. For a dog, sniffing is no casual thing. It’s the focus of their lives, and it has a big social component. I’m always fascinated when the dog stops at a particular blade of grass or a single leaf on a shrub. She may spend 90 or 120 seconds carefully sniffing every millimeter of it. Why that blade exactly? Why that leaf of all the leaves? Where paths cross there’s a certain signpost that always causes a twominute sniff-pause in our walk. When we got our first greyhound many years ago – his name was Moses – I remember walking him on a late autumn evening, Mars was close to Earth at the time, adding an unusual and clearly reddish highlight to a starry sky. The kind of sky that causes wonder and awe when you stop for a minute to gaze up. I felt somehow rueful that, as the dog busily sniffed practically every inch of the walking route, he simply didn’t have the mental equipment to stare upwards and be awed by the splendor of it all. A dog can’t discern the cosmos, but to the canine nose, the post, branch or patch of grass is like a bulletin board, covered with meaningful messages from other dogs that have passed that way. Because a dog’s nose is exponentially more sensitive than a human’s, experts believe a dog can sniff out the gender, mood and status of the other dogs that passed – perhaps passed water on – that spot. And when a dog sees at a distance or encounters another dog close up, forget about it. Dogs are irresistibly drawn to check each other out with their noses. Most of the time they get along fine. Sometimes there’s a little snarl. If the dogs are left alone with no strain on the leash, they nearly always find a way to get along. This always makes we wonder why so many people avoid greeting people we encounter? I ask myself why I sometimes present a closed persona. If dogs have their noses, people have their eyes and the choice of whether to smile or not. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 17 Chadashot DECEMBER 2014 KISLEV/TEVET 5775 COMING This Month LIVE & LEARN WITH CANTOR ESCHLER Tuesdays, 12/2, 12/9, 12/16 10:30 - 12 noon Join Cantor Eschler for a conversation exploring ethics through a Jewish lens and how change is viewed as good or bad. Book Club Tuesday, 12/2 7:30 - 9 pm WTBA’s Book Club continues with The Storyteller by Jodi Picoult. Contact Phyllis Polster ([email protected]) for more information. Book Fair Benefit at Barnes & Noble Thursday, 12/4 Help support the Temple Beth Ami Nursery School with your purchase at the Barnes & Noble at RIO, Gaithersburg, on December 4. Join Cantor Eschler for a free sing-a-Long at Barnes & Noble at 10:30 am. Brunch & Exhibit at Strathmore Mansion Sunday, 12/7 12 noon WTBA invites you for brunch at Clydes-Tower Oaks Lodge at 12 noon (fee), followed by a tour of the Annual Exhibition of Fine Art in Miniature at Strathmore (free). Information on website. Contact Cecile: [email protected]. Brunch with Steven Wallace, Aviation Expert Sunday, 12/14 9 - 10:30 am The Brotherhood invites everyone for a stimulating morning with Steven Wallace, who has an extensive career as a media commentator on aviation issues. How does the NTSB reconstruct a destroyed airplane? What happened with the missing Malaysian airliner? Find out the answers to these questions and more! RSVP online by 12/10: www.bethami.org. 3 WTBA Preschool Hanukkah Party Sunday, 12/14 9:15 - 10:15 am The Women of Temple Beth Ami invite preschool-age children (and their parents) to a Hanukkah Party. Space is limited, so please RSVP by 12/8 to Amy Scher: [email protected], including the names of parent and child, as well as the child’s age. Israel Matters presents AIPAC at TBA Sunday, December 14 7:30 PM The Israel Matters Committee is sponsoring a workshop with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) to discuss the long term American Israeli relationship. This is an opportunity to have your questions answered. All are welcome. Contact: Edward Sondik, esondik@msncom, or Jack Rosenthal, [email protected] Israeli Movie Monday Monday, 12/15 10:30 am - 12:30 pm Join Lior for a free screening of the film Ballad of the Weeping Spring, a film that, among other things, is about how music serves as a powerful code that records and transmits memories, feelings and stories. Ballad of the Weeping Spring is also about musicians, about the baggage they carry, and about their ongoing internal conflict between a desire to devote themselves entirely to their craft and a more balanced and humane mix between life and art. Shabbanukkah Friday, 12/19 6 pm It’s Shabbat - It’s Hanukkah - It’s SHABBANUKKAH! Everyone is invited for a festive evening of celebration! We’ll begin at 6 pm with a Latke Bar, followed by an indoor picnic (don’t forget to bring your own dinner and a beach blanket/chairs to sit on). Our Indoor Shabbanukkah Service with “The ShabbaTones” begins at 7 pm and will be followed by a Hanukkah singalong with The ShabbaTones and a Hanukkahthemed oneg. Comfy and casual dress; PJs are welcome for the kids! February Chadashot Deadline December 24 4 Chadashot DECEMBER 2014 KISLEV/TEVET 5775 TIKKUN OLAM Community Service Projects LEND A HAND IN THE COMMUNITY • Sheets/Blankets/Pillows Needed by A Wider Circle - Temple Beth Ami Community Service Projects Thank you in advance for your support! (For information on additional TBA community service projects, visit Recently given a large donation to cover the purchase of 2,000 beds for needy area families, A Wider Circle needs new/gently used sheets and blankets and new pillows (especially twin and full sizes). Visit awidercircle.org for more information. bethami.org/groups/TO.) VOLUNTEERS NEEDED SIMCHAS Mazel Tov to... • Help Prepare/Serve Christmas Dinner for the Homeless on Dec. 25 - Volunteers (ages 10+) needed on Christmas Day at the Joshua Levine, Jeremy Golub, Joshua Levine, Daniel Rudden , and Benjamin McLenaghan each on becoming a Bar Lord’s Table in St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Gaithersburg for flexible shifts from 1:30 to 5:30 pm. Tasks include preparing or serving food, setting up, cleaning up. Contact Joanne Brodsky at [email protected] or 301-299-9240. Jamie Grossberg, Chloe Perel, Sydney White, and Abigail Russ, each on becoming a Bat Mitzvah • For Information on additional volunteer opportunities on Dec. 25, visit http://washingtondcjcc.org/volunteer/days-ofservice/december-25th-day-of-service/about-december-25th-dayof.html. • Community Ministries of Rockville (CMR) - Child care providers & tutors needed Tuesday/Thursday nights for the Language Outreach Program. (SSL hours available.) For more information on this and other volunteer opportunities, contact Andrea Kempner-Wink at 301-637-0172 or [email protected]. COLLECTIONS THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING THESE DRIVES! • Toy/Game Drive- -TBA will collect new, unwrapped toys for children of all ages to be donated to needy families served by A Wider Circle and the City of Rockville’s Holiday Drive. Collection boxes will be in the Temple lobby December 4 – 15. • “Adopt a Family” Holiday Gift Drive - In this family-oriented project, TBA families are paired with a family from Montgomery County Child Welfare Services and will receive a “wish list” with suggestions for items that the child(ren) in the family want or need. For more information or to participate, contact Judi Goozh at [email protected] or 301-990-7224. Mitzvah Jeanette and Norman Sturman on the Bar Mitzvah of their grandson, Asher Melamed, in Israel Elaine and Jerry Auerbach on the engagement of their daughter, Robyn, to Ryan Celestino Nancy and Howard Harrell on the marriage of their son, Myer, to Rose Slavkosky Janet and Mark Wallace on the marriage of their daughter, Amanda, to Vincent Albanese Kate, Seth, Carter, and Crew Wernick on the birth of their son and brother, Camble Braden Jill and Rick Finci on the birth of their granddaughter, Charlotte (Charli) Reese Livingston Hanukkah is Almost Here Visit the Judaica Shop for all of your Chanukah needs. Menorah! Candles! Dreidels! Gelt! Gifts for all ages! We are open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 9:30-1:30, and Sundays 8:45 – 12:45. For you shopping convenience on Sunday December 7th and 14th we will bring the shop out into the Temple Lobby. Come see us and we will make sure you leave ready for the holiday season! 5 BROTHERHOOD News Join Brotherhood Today The Brotherhood of Beth Ami is an organization that sustains a wide range of Temple and community activities. By joining the Brotherhood, your support will help provide kiddush cups to our youth becoming B'nai Mitzvah, financial aid for Rebuilding Together, meals for the Community Based Shelter, and sponsorship of family events. Join the Brotherhood today and enjoy great entertainment while expanding your network of friends and business contacts. Last Year was action-packed with guest speakers, participation in Rebuilding Together, the Temple Golf Outing at Worthington Manor, Laser Tag, a Wizards game, and many other exciting events! Event Calendar for 2014 - 2015: - Brunch with speaker Steven Wallace, independent aviation safety consultant, frequent media commentator on aviation issues - Sunday, December 14, 9:00 am - Brunch with speaker Nesse Godin, Holocaust Survivor - Sunday, February 8, 9:00 am - Brunch with speaker Professor Thomas Zeitzoff, Author, American University, Topic: Terrorism - Sunday, April 19th: 9:00 am Can't Find our Flyers? So much is happening in the Temple, we have moved from the Never Bored Board to the revolving display stand in the corner. Please check there for information about our events. Hope to see you at one of our future events! - Brotherhood/Temple Golf Outing, Worthington Manor - Tuesday, May 12th, 11:00 am SPECIAL EVENTS: Spring 2015 – Washington Wizards Group Event Spring 2015 – Brotherhood Softball League (weekly games) 6 Please check off the "Brotherhood" box on your Membership Dues statement and join today. Regular membership is $45 and the Gold membership is $90. Ira Greenspan President, Beth Ami Brotherhood Cell: (301) 524-6412 [email protected] Like "Beth FaceBook! Ami Brotherhood" on Chadashot DECEMBER 2014 KISLEV/TEVET 5775 WOMEN OF TEMPLE BETH AMI News In Appreciation - Thank you to Jackie Next Book Club Meeting - The Book Club Kippot Sales - Attention Manis for organizing our Stuff-a-Duff project and to Phyllis Polster for organizing our Crafts for a Cause program in October. The recipients of these social action projects (the social workers at the county Department of Health and Human Services and chemo patients) are always grateful for our donations. will meet again on Tuesday, December 2 at 7:30pm to discuss The Storyteller by Jodi Picoult. For more information, contact Phyllis Polster at [email protected]. B’nai Mitzvah families, brides and grooms! Please order your kippot through WTBA. For more information, please contact Michelle Freedberg at [email protected]. Brunch and Strathmore Mansion Art Exhibit - On December 7, join us for brunch at 12:00 noon at Clyde's Tower Oaks Lodge in Rockville (pay your own way). Then we’ll continue the fun at Strathmore Mansion to enjoy the 81st Annual Exhibition of Fine Art in Miniature. This is an amazing collection of masterpieces produced in miniature. They all represent a massive dab of talent and tender love and care. Finish up with time to browse the Gift Shop. Admission is free to the art exhibit. Please RSVP by December 1 to Cecile Plost at 301-294-0775 or [email protected]. Hanukkah is Coming! Remember to visit the Judaica Shop for all of your Hanukkah needs. We carry menorahs, candles, dreidels, gelt and gifts for all ages. The shop is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9:30am-1:30pm, and Sundays from 8:45am-12:45pm. For your shopping convenience, we will bring the shop out to the Temple lobby on Sunday, December 7th and 14th during religious school hours. Stop by and we’ll make sure you are ready for the holiday! Gift for Newlyweds - WTBA provides a gift of the book On the Doorposts of Your House: Prayers and Ceremonies for the Jewish Home to any temple member or child of a temple member who gets married. Please email Barbara Ranhand at [email protected] with contact information so we can send a copy of this wonderful book to the happy couple. Volunteers are needed to help the shop to Marilyn Bier be successful. Hanukkah is our busiest time of the year. Working in the shop provides opportunities to meet new people and chat with old friends. We’re asking for only two hours a week or every other week. Please contact Cindy Goodman at [email protected]. Chadashot article editor [email protected] Can't Find our Flyers? So much is happening in the Temple, we have moved from the Never Bored Board to the revolving display stand in the corner. Please check there for information about our events. PLEASE REMEMBER THE TEMPLE… …in your end of year giving plans. You can make a tax-deductible donation to the High Holy Days Appeal, the ATID Campaign, religious school and nursery school scholarships, the general fund, clergy discretionary funds, caring community funds or any fund that is important to you and your family. You can donate cash, pay on line by credit card, use appreciated stock. Please join your fellow congregants who remember the Temple every year; every gift is sincerely appreciated. All payments must be received by December 31 in order to be posted in this calendar year and, therefore, to appear on your tax report from the Temple. 7 NURSERY SCHOOL NEWS Paula Sayag, Director By Jennifer WInick Miller, TBANS Parent Committee My dear friend gave birth to a son six years before I did. In his first few weeks of life, she would hold him in her arms, look deeply at him, and say with awe, “You are absolutely perfect.” And then, a few moments later, with a mixture of horror, helplessness, and regret she would shake her head, nervously laugh, and say, “And I am going to totally mess you up!” I would laugh with, and at, her thinking, “You’re crazy! You’re going to be an amazing mom – he’s so lucky to have you.” And now, 10 years later, I have a four year old and have experienced countless moments when I have despaired, “What am I doing to this kid – to this perfect being, to this radiant soul?” I know that my friend and I are not alone in these thoughts and feelings. We all bring “perfect” children into the world; open, loving, curious, accepting, joyful, untarnished people. And we wish, with every cell in our bodies, that nothing bad ever happen to them, 8 knowing as we wish that this is an impossibility. From the time our children fit into the crook of one arm, sleeplessness takes its toll, conflicting needs and desires arise, communication falters, opportunities and obstacles appear – things happen as life happens. And as things build up, we often act and react in ways that we would prefer not to, in manners that we wouldn’t choose if circumstances were different. As I think about the person, and the mother, that I want to be I find myself considering again the timeless message of Yom Kippur and the role of t’shuvah, “returning forward,” in becoming that person. I remind myself that the beauty of mistakes is the opportunity to learn from them and to choose anew in the future. This message is brightened with anticipation of the lights of Hanukkah. As the menorah, candles, and matches are drawn forth I am reminded to ease my journey by finding the light within – the light that brings me to life and that inspires those around me to shine. In her book, My Grandfather’s Blessings, Rachel Naomi Remen recalls sitting in the dark of her grandfather’s study alongside his warm, calm presence. In awe of the light emanating from the tall white candles of the menorah, she quietly uttered, “It’s so beautiful.” “Ah yes,” her grandfather replied. “But God’s menorah is even more beautiful, Neshume-le. God’s menorah is made out of people, not of candles.” “When God says ‘Let There Be Light!’ he is speaking to us personally. He is telling us what is possible, how we might choose to live. But one candle does not do much in the darkness. God has not only given us the chance to carry the light, he has made it possible for us to kindle and strengthen the light in one another, passing the light along. This is the way that God’s light will shine forever in this world.” With the start of Hanukkah, I invite you to sit in awe of the light. Let’s take time to appreciate the unique flames of those around us and to find ways to kindle and care for them. While we’re at it, let’s take time to tend the life giving flame within ourselves as well. Chadashot DECEMBER 2014 KISLEV/TEVET 5775 B’NAI MITZVAH Profiles Please join with us at Shabbat Services during the month of December as we celebrate with... MAYA SACHS, daughter of Kim Dettelbach and Steven Sachs, will become a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, December 6. She is a seventh grade student at Tilden Middle School. Maya has an older brother, Joshua, and an older sister, Hannah. MAX MIRKIN, son on Franki and Geoff, will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, December 6. He is a seventh grade student at Lakelands Park Middle School. Max has an older sister, Paige. EVAN MORRIS, son of Tamara, will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, December 13. He is a seventh grade student at Argyle Magnet Middle School of Digital Design and Technology. For his Mitzvah Project, Evan is collecting new and gentlyused children's books to be donated to a local women and children's shelter. JOSHUA BRETT RUBIN, son of Lisa and Eric, will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, December 20. He is a seventh grade student at Lakelands Park Middle School. Josh has a younger sister, Olivia. For his Mitzvah Project, Josh is collecting new art supplies for children who are undergoing treatment at the Lombardi Pediatric Cancer Center at Georgetown University Hospital. HANNAH LOUISE MEIT, daughter of Flo and David, will become a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday December 27. She is a seventh grade student at Lakelands Park Middle School. Hannah has an older brother, Benjamin. For her Mitzvah Project, Hannah is volunteering at and raising funds for Days End Farm Horse Rescue or DEFHR. DEFHR is a nonprofit, volunteer-based, animal welfare organization established in 1989 to ensure quality care and treatment of horses through intervention, education and outreach. GFF (GLUTEN-FREE FRIENDS) SUPPORT GROUP A support group for kids in grades 3-8, sharing friendship, feelings, and fun. Facilitated by professional counselors. For more information contact Patti Needle Goldberg, [email protected] THE PERFECT HANUKKAH PRESENT For one of the eight nights, please consider a gift to the Temple in your child’s name. You can donate a copy of the wonderful new prayer book, Mishkan T’Filah for Children ($22) or the beautiful High Holiday Gates of Repentance for Young People ($18). A bookplate will be put in the book with your child(ren)’s name(s). Or consider a gift to any fund or program of interest to your children/family. Thank you. SNOW BIRDS If you are now – or will soon be – at your winter address, please let the office know so we can find you and keep you informed about your Temple. [email protected] And, please, remember to let us know when you return home. THE TEMPLE OFFICES WILL BE CLOSED ON THURSDAY AND FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25 AND 26 AND JANUARY 1 AND 2.. 9 RELIGIOUS SCHOOL NEWS Kim Roberts, Director Ĩ ņőŊœʼnņŗ Tuesday, December 2 TBAHigh Night, - Leadership, Aliyah Bet, Conversational Hebrew Friday, December 5 Gimel (Grade 3) Shabbat Family Experience 5:45 7 pm Tuesday, December 9 Grade 7 & TBAHigh Program Night Sunday, December 14 Coffee & Conversation 9:30 10:30 am Gaga League 12:45- 2 p.m. Tuesday, December 16 Hanukkah First Candle 5:50 pm TBAHigh Night - Social Action, Confirmation Class, Graduation Class, Aliyah Bet, Conversational Hebrew Friday, December 19 ShabbanukkahShabbat/Hanukkah Celebration Sunday, December 21 NO SCHOOL - Professional Day Friday-Sunday, December 26 - 28 NFTY-MAR Winter Kallah December 23 - 31 thru Jan 4 NO SCHOOL -Winter Break Classes resume Tuesday, January 6, 2015 We have fantastic news! Our Machane TBA “L’mata”* program has received a distinguished honor in the Jewish communal world. Our experiential learning program for 3rd-6th graders was selected from among hundreds of applicants to be recognized as one of the 18 leading Jewish programs in the DC Metro area in the ’14-’15 Slingshot Guide DC Edition. The Slingshot Guide is the foremost comprehensive resource into today's most groundbreaking and significant organizations, projects and programs of the North American Jewish community Inclusion in the Slingshot Guide recognizes the Machane TBA L'mata program as being among the foremost game changers of future Jewish life and engagement in the country! Machane TBA now joins a network of innovators in Jewish life and we are thrilled to be recognized as leaders who are at the forefront of Jewish education. The DC Supplement to the Slingshot Guide is funded by the Emanuel J. Friedman Philanthropies. Copies of the Slingshot DC Guide are available at the Machane TBA office or online at www.slingshotfund.org. A wonderful new addition to the L’mata program this year is the Teen Fellows program. Four teens have been selected to serve as L’mata teachers; they bring great energy and enthusiasm to our students and to our programming. This year our fellows are 11th graders Jake Fechter, Jonah Gordon, Alex Klugerman and Melissa Horowitz. These terrific teens serve as role models for our younger students and they have each made wonderful contributions to their teams; we are grateful to each one of them for being part of the L’mata Program. Our L’mata students have been engaged in a variety of activities this year. We are pleased to welcome specialists Rachel Lader (music), Orit Golan (Movement and Israeli Dance), Val Greenfeld (Kavana Yoga), and Elana Lippa (Glee, Machane TBA Style) to our school to teach electives on select days. On a gorgeous weekend in October we brought close to 100 students to Capital Camps for our first-ever Grades 3-6 Retreat, which was a huge success. Our large-scale programs this year include a High Holidays-based program called “Thinking in the New Year”, a “Dr. Who” time travel program about 12th century Jewish traveler Benjamin of Tudela, who visited Jewish communities all over the world, and a fun-filled Hannukkah themed game show with DJ Chris of Unique Dreams Entertainment! And that’s just our first semester! We are looking forward to learning more about Israel with our awesome shaliach, Lior Olinik, and having another visit from the Eco-Jewish educators from the Pearlstone Center, among other things. There is truly never a dull moment at L’mata and we look forward to greeting our students every week to share these exciting programs with them.Once again, we extend our gratitude to all of the CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 17 Chadashot DECEMBER 2014 KISLEV/TEVET 5775 FROM OUR SHALIACH Lior Olinik Shalom Y’all, Let me tell you something, last year December was a very difficult time for me living here in the US. In fact, it’s not about December, it’s about the winter. It’s too cold! It’s beautiful, I know, and I know how much I need to appreciate it because I won’t get to have this kind of white fluffy beauty experience in Israel so often, if at all, but still there is a limit. I admire your resiliency to the cold, and I hope that this winter won’t be too cold, but yet will still be pretty and unique. I don’t have enough winter experience, so I cannot give you tips or advice on how to stay warm and safe; the only thing I can give you for this month is a warm fact that has something to do with December, Israelis, Sweden, Norway, Jews, literature, peace, economy and chemistry. In case you still don’t know what I’m talking about then this month’s piece is in honor of the Nobel Prize award that is taking place in December, and about the 12 Israelis awarded the Nobel Prize since the state of Israel was established. Just so everybody reading this piece will be on the same line, here is a brief explanation brought to you by Rabbi Wikipedia about this institution called Nobel Prize. The Nobel Prize is a set of annual international awards bestowed in a number of categories by Swedish and Norwegian committees in recognition of cultural and/or scientific advances. The prizes were first awarded in 1901 and are awarded yearly. Each recipient, or laureate, receives a gold medal, a diploma and a sum of money, which is decided by the Nobel Foundation Since the foundation of the Nobel Prize institution until now, one of every four laureates (approximately) is a Jew depending how you look at the data. The percentage of Jewish Nobel Prize laureates is 22.7%-24.5% (2014 data is not part of the statistics), although Jews comprise less than 0.2% of the world's population (1 in every 500 people).. Approximately 194 among 850 laureates of the respected prize are Jews. Overall, Jews have won a total of 41% of all the Nobel Prizes in economics, 28% of medicine, 26% of Physics, 19% of Chemistry, 13% of Literature and 9% of all peace awards. 12 of the 194 Jews laureates hold Israeli citizenship. Israel ranked as one of the leading countries in nobel Prize laureates per capita. There is no need to say how big of a deal it is to hear about an Israeli Nobel laureate. It’s another event that puts Israel on the global map and shows the world how much the Israeli Jewish brain has contributed to the world in 66 years of existence. Yes, it defiantly has to do something with the Jewish genome, but for the last 66 years it’s about where those Jewish brains were nourished, and the answer is Israel; they soaked the Israeli culture, Israeli education, and were eating a lot of humus (probably). Yes, we did have some embarrassing moments - realizing that an Israeli Laureate does not live in Israel anymore because he didn’t feel supported enough there or because other domestic political issues - but we still kept the pride of declaring that another Israeli was awarded with the Nobel Prize. Beside the good international PR winning a Nobel Prize, it encourages young Israelis to work hard to win one of their own one day and it creates a better society. I hope that you found this piece heartwarming and feel warmer in this cold season. If you’re looking for me, I will probably be somewhere drinking a hot mint tea and trying to keep myself warm. L’shalom and L’warm Lior Olinik 11 PHOTO REVIEW Critical Issues Forum, Boogie Woogie Brunch, Culinary Crew, TBANS, Live and Learn with Rabbi Fink 12 Chadashot DECEMBER 2014 KISLEV/TEVET 5775 13 COMMITTEE News Critical Issues Forum Focuses on Food Hardship in Maryland and the Food Supplement Program Tikkun Olam in Action The Critical Issues Forum thanks everyone who attended the Critical Issues Forum/MAZON Event hosted on Sunday, October 19, entitled Our Hungry Neighbors. The themes of the panel discussion included increasing participation in SNAP (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and providing free breakfasts and lunches for all students in low-income school districts in Montgomery County with the CEP (Community Eligibility Program). Our expert panel included • Samuel Chu, National Synagogue Organizer, MAZON|A Jewish Response to Hunger • Michael J. Wilson, Director of Maryland Hunger Solutions • Marla Caplon, Director of Nutrition Services for Montgomery County Public Schools, • Odeth Berlin, representing TBA’s friend and partner Community Ministries of Rockville, plus two clients of Community Ministries who described their experiences applying for SNAP. calendar, be sure to mark Sunday, March 15, as Good Deeds Day. Since it began in 2007 in Israel, Good Deeds Day has spread to more than 50 countries and involved millions of people doing thousands of projects. This annual celebration of doing good is based on the simple idea that everyone can do something to improve the lives of others and help change the world for the better. Our audience included TBA congregants, as well as congregants representing Temple Beth El, Kol Shalom, and Adat Shalom. Also in attendance was Maryland State Delegate David Fraser-Hidalgo (District 15). This event laid the foundation for our next steps in combating hunger in our community. We are collaborating with MAZON and other Jewish congregations in Montgomery County and across Maryland to educate, enlighten, and work with our elected officials to bring about positive change. Our sincere “thank you” to Rabbi Luxemburg for his ongoing support of the Critical Issues Forum. Thank you also to TBA congregants for their support, as well as TBA’s administrative and housekeeping staff. For more information, to be involved in future Critical Issues Forum events, or to attend our next meeting on November 13, 2014, please contact Monya Cohen ([email protected]) or Jack Rosenthal ([email protected].) 14 Save the Date: March 15, 2015, Next Year’s Good Deeds Day - As you start filling in dates on your 2015 Temple Beth Ami has conducted a variety of Good Deeds Day projects onsite during recent years and has encouraged congregants to participate in projects throughout the DC metropolitan area. In 2015, we will encourage you and your family to participate in projects conducted by the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington and other local organizations. So, watch this space and the Temple listserv for more information about Good Deeds Day 2015 and how you can join with others across the world to help make the world a better place. In the meantime, for more information, visit http://gdd.goodnet.org/about and http://www.shalomdc.org/good-deeds-day/. Thank You to All Who Participated in Rosh Hashanah Baskets 2014! - TBA’s Tikkun Olam Committee expresses a heartfelt THANK YOU to all who volunteered to pick up and deliver Rosh Hashanah Baskets to needy Jewish families in our community on September 21, 2014. Your generosity and altruism truly are appreciated: Helene Casper, Diane Castiglione, Monya Cohen, Jenn Fechter, Caryn Fischer, Susan Fox, Michelle and Daron Freedberg, Janine Geisner, Amy Greenberg, Holly Gross, Fran and Harry Hertz, Elizabeth Joseloff, Gail KaplanWassell, Roz and Alan Katz, Jackie and Scott Kauff, Jill Lachter, Nicole and Jon Lebby, Tina and Jerry Levine, Karen Lewis, Eve Machol, Marci Maged, Sharlene Matten, Leslie Marks and Louis Solomon, Allison Morris, Tobi Printz-Platnick, Matt Rosenstock, Peter Schiff, Wendy and Jay Schuler, Audrey Tunick Soll, David Soroka, Lynn and David Stander, Barbara Strong, Olivia and Don Weinstein, Amy Wollins, and Charlotte Zuckerman. Chadashot DECEMBER 2014 KISLEV/TEVET 5775 A GLIMPSE INTO January Meet the Caterers Sunday, 1/11 2 - 4 pm Planning a simcha or celebration? Come by the Temple between 2 and 4 pm to make contacts with local caterers, get valuable information about the services they provide and, of course, enjoy some samples. Wine & Whine - Strategies for Dealing with Aging Parents Sunday, 1/11 7 - 9 pm Are you part of the growing population of adults who are caring for aging parents? Enjoy a light nosh and a glass of wine, share your story with others, and discuss some helpful strategies to help you “deal with it.” Our conversation will be facilitated by Roberta Drucker, LCSW-C. No charge, but please RSVP to Shelly ([email protected]) Food Film Fest: “The Sturgeon Queens” Friday, 1/16 7:30 pm Don’t miss a delicious dinner, inspired by the appetizer shops in NYC like Russ & Daughters, followed by a screening of “The Sturgeon Queens,” winner of the Audience Choice Awards in Palm Beach and San Diego’s Jewish Film Festivals. This film tells the story of the famed Lower East Side smoked fish emporium, Russ & Daughters, and the Jewish immigrant family who has run it for 100 years and 4 generations! Fee; register online by 1/12/15. Living & Sharing Your Legacy: - Creating your own legacy letter Sundays 1/18 & 1/25 2 - 4 pm Join Monica Schaeffer, Health Psychologist and President of VITAL, in this two-session workshop for individuals who are interested in creating their own ethical wills/legacy letters. Legacy letters preserve your legacy of values for your family, friends and community, and Monica will guide you through the process of creating your own. Fee; register online in advance. 15 ON GOING Information JSSA LIAISON IS HERE FOR YOU LOOKING TO MAKE A CONNECTION? Through our special relationship with JSSA, TBA members are able to receive free and confidential consultation on family and mental health issues including parenting children of all ages and aging parents. Roberta Drucker is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and also earned a BA in Psychology, and Early Childhood, Elementary and Special Education. Her specialized training and experience include the treatment of anxiety, OCD, and other mood issues, ADHD, learning disabilities, families with special needs, parenting, couples and family therapy, aging and bereavement, and intergenerational family therapy. During her tenure as Director of JSSA’s Resettlement Program, she provided services to families, and consultation to staff in a variety of settings, including Jewish Day Schools, public schools, pre-schools, and religious schools. Please contact Roberta at [email protected] or 301-610-8369 for free confidential consultation. The clergy and staff are here to help you find that special connection with your congregation. Whether it’s a class, service, kehillah, social action project, film, dinner, leadership role – just check out the Chadashot, the UTTM Thursday e-blast, the website and come join us. If you want help connecting, contact Shelly Gordon at 301-340-6818 or [email protected] It’s YOUR congregation; be connected. RABBI CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 and opened fire in the halls of Parliament. We saw acts of gun violence locally at Columbia (MD) Mall last year. From movie theaters to school shootings, we are becoming desensitized to incidences of gun violence. In our sacred text, the Torah, in Leviticus, we are commanded, “Do not stand idly by why your neighbor bleeds.” What is our collective responsibility when innocent lives are taken by bullets of anger and hatred? It feels negligent and irresponsible to stand by when so many people are dying from gun violence. Along with other local clergy, I have become part of the “Don’t Stand Idly by Campaign.” This campaign, launched by the faith leaders and citizens who make up the Metro Industrial Areas Foundation (Metro IAF) network, is based on two simple premises: 1. We can’t end the plague of gun violence in America until the manufacturers of guns make safety and responsible sales among their highest priorities. 2. The companies that step up to lead in these areas will thrive. They’ll tap a growing demand for safety and expand their market share among major public-sector gun buyers. OUR DIRECTORY IS ON-LINE The Temple directory is on line through Chaver-web. Please remember that you can go into your profile and update it. If you’ve never looked at it, please take a minute to see what’s there. The directory is available to Temple members only. Citizens, law enforcement leaders, public officials and investors are working together to ask gun manufacturers to lead their industry by: • Creating first-rate networks of dealers that meet high standards of security, record keeping and cooperation with law enforcement. • Bringing to market child-proof, theft-proof guns - such as the “smart gun”– along with a variety of other gun safety technologies. The Talmud teaches us that “one individual was created first, to teach that anyone who causes one life to be lost it is as if they have destroyed the entire world. And anyone who saves one life-it as if they have preserved an entire world.” (Sanhedrin 37a). Each life lost is one too many. The weekend of December 11-14 has been allocated as “Gun Violence Prevention Shabbat.” Houses of worship across the nation - synagogues, churches, mosques and temples - along with the Washington National Cathedral, the Newtown Foundation, and Faiths United to Prevent Gun Violence, a coalition of 50 national denominations and faith-based organizations, are joining together to remember those who have lost their lives to gunfire, pray for those whose lives have been forever CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 17 Chadashot DECEMBER 2014 RABBI CONTINUED FROM PAGE KISLEV/TEVET 5775 16 changed because of the loss of a loved one, and to educate one another on proven strategies to reduce gun violence. I hope that you will join us here at Temple Beth Ami on Friday evening, December 12th for a special night as we come together as a community for healing and prayer, and, together, take a look at Jewish perspectives and teachings on individual freedoms versus communal needs. Just as we turn toward Hanukkah, Zechariah’s words “Not by might and not by power, but by spirit alone” come to mind. We know that if we come together as a community, we can bring light to dark places. Come be a part of the conversation. Together we may have the opportunity to save one life and, in turn, save the world. PRESIDENT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 I’m not talking about a mobbed subway on a rainy Tuesday or a Transportation Security Administration line where it’s understandable if everyone is crabby. I’m talking about places like the gym. People tend to go at the same days and times, and use the same locker in the same bay. You get to chatting and pretty soon you’ve got a gym friend, or yoga friends, or whatever it is. Yet haven’t we all encountered those who, even if you see them week after week, perhaps have even spoken to them before, act as if you’re not there or they’ve never seen you? I spend a lot of time running the streets and trails. I always make eye contact with oncoming runners. I’d say 50 percent of the time we exchange friendly, if fleeting, greetings. A nod, a wave, a “lookin’ good.” I’m not as fast as I used to be, but when I overtake a runner I always say “howdy”. So many, though, keep eyes forward, or they use their sunglasses and headphone-plugged ears to keep people out. The ubiquitous white earphones have done much to convey the message, “I’m closed to you and everyone else.” Sometimes I’m guilty. I was in the 10th mile of an 11-mile route the other morning, and I was running into the sun. I encountered two people walking the opposite way, and just as I passed, ignoring them, one of them called out a hoarse and hearty “Hey!” His tone implied, “Wouldn’t hurt you to say hello!” In the spirit of “audacious hospitality” spelled out by Rabbi Weiss during the recent high holy days, I’m resolving to greet everyone I see at the Temple with at least eye contact and a smile. Would you join me? Many years ago, I used to supplement my income with wedding photography of every denomination. Once I found myself at a Catholic church. I was hurriedly fiddling with my equipment and also trying to find my way through the corridors. A young priest came around a corner, took one look at me and said, “Smile! You’ll live longer!” I couldn’t help but burst into a grin. In an instant, my whole outlook changed. This was at least 30 years ago and it’s stayed with me. If you see me around Temple Beth Ami, and I fail in the resolution I’ve just stated, just shout, “Hey!” MACHANE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 Machane TBA faculty and staff, the Temple Clergy and staff, and all the L’mata teachers past and present, for helping us to be recognized as an award-winning school program. May we go from strength to strength into the future! *The Machane TBA L'mata program was introduced in Fall 2011. The goal of this program was to create an experiential learning opportunity which provides Hebrew instruction via a lively tefillah/ruach session. We also offer (on a rotating basis) large-scale programs for grades 3-6, customized chugim so that students can learn about an aspect of Judaica which interests them, and "Kitah Time" which introduces a middot (values) curriculum. This year we also introduced the L'mata Teen Fellows Program for highly engaged and qualified teens. These teens work as teachers and serve as role models for our younger students. It is our hope that the structure and content of the L'mata program, will help to create community and deep engagement with Jewish life. ĸ ōņŗŊąŜ Ŏřōąĺ Řƭ Please inform the Temple of any significant life cycle event, such as a birth, engagement, wedding, illness or death, so we can be in touch. Please contact Gail Brodsky, Clergy Assistant, at 301-340-6818, ext. 230 or [email protected] 17 ON GOING Information CELEBRATING? INCLUDE MAZON Our congregation is a MAZON congregation; we contribute $3 of every oneg contribution to MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger. Please consider donating 3% of the cost of food for your celebration (Bar/Bat Mitzvah, wedding, anniversary, office party) to help fight hunger worldwide. OUR DIRECTORY IS ON-LINE The Temple directory is on line through Chaver-web. Please remember that you can go into your profile and update it. If you’ve never looked at it, please take a minute to see what’s there. The directory is available to Temple members only. ARE YOUR AWAY? HAVE YOU MOVED? HAVE YOU RESIGNED? Please let the office know of any change of address, even if it is just for a month or two, or membership status. It is very costly for the Temple when the newsletters are returned, when we pay postage to mail letters that never arrive (only first class mail is forwarded), or when we send materials to people who no longer live in the area and/or are no longer members. Please help us save natural resources (trees) and the Temple’s financial resources. Thank you FOR ONGOING TBA NEWS Check out the Temple website www.bethami.org 18 “May the memory of these Righteous be for a blessing” We mourn the recent death of: Ruth Neumann mother of Ed Neumann Eudice L. Gilman grandmother of Beth Jolles Bob Kesser son of Emily and Irving Kesser Sandy Levenson mother of Stacy Steinberg Stefanie Dinman sister of Jon Dinman Adele Horn grandmother of Cheryl Herman Hilde Marion mother of Suzanne Fialkoff Lila Pearl Arnold mother of Sharon Arnold Jack Glickman brother of Stuart Glickman Gordon Louis Danoff father of Gary Danoff Bob Nagshineh step-father of David Ferraro Kate Hackerman mother of Leslie Becker Helen Anna Kaplan Bass mother of Gail Roe Chadashot DECEMBER 2014 KISLEV/TEVET 5775 WE GRATEFULLY Acknowledge A contribution to a Temple fund is a meaningful Lauren Bogart and Adam Spector Edward and Susan Dosik way to support the Temple community while Marla and Steve Brannan Benjamin Glantz honoring a birthday, recuperation, wedding, Linda and Neil Burka Marilyn and Donald Goldman graduation, birth or any special occasion. Lillian Caplan Mitchell and Marjorie Halem Donations may also be made in memory of Richard Silver and Janice Caro Toby and Linda Lehman loved one. For a minimum $10 donation, an Barry and Barbara Fayne Mike and Ginny Michalowski acknowledgement will be sent to the person Flora and Burt Feldman Susan and Ed Neumann you wish to honor or the family of the Laine and Henry Friedman Sandra Reis deceased. If you have any questions about Rhonda and Mitchell Gaynor Lisa and James Richardson existing funds or wish to establish a fund, Robert Goldman Roger and Lois Rothman please call Janice Rosenblatt, Executive Larrie and Joyce Greenberg The Schorr Family Director, at 301.340.6818. Jason and Leslie Katz Jerome and Bette Schwartzman Dale and Ellis Koch Neil and Natalie Simon Lawrence Krevor and Marjorie Norris-Krevor Marcia and Jerry Sternburg Susan and Daniel Lahr Livia and Donald Weinstein Rise Lavine The Westin Family HIGH HOLY DAYS APPEAL SHOMRIM (GUARDIANS) Jonathan and Ellen Bortz MAGEN (PATRONS) Connie Heller Rebecca and Marc Hertzman Jim and Sherri Lieberman Joan and Brian Ochs Aaron and Lauren Perry Mark Klein and Deneen Wilson CHAVERIM (FRIENDS) Susan and Doug Baruch Susan and Steven Braunstein Josh and Moira Carin Catherine Copp Josh and Loren Felsher Mitchell and Judy Glassman Angela and Walter Harris Brad and Pat Harvey Arthur and Linda Jacobson David and Donna Kanin Joseph and Janey Nadler Mark and Olivia Sheinkopf Isadora and Ronald Stehlin TOMHIM (SUPPORTERS) Joseph and Barbara Levitt Betty and Tom Loggia DOUBLE CHAI Mitchell and Kim Lustig AnnLynn and Stan Alster Adele Narva Anita Berns Cecile and Charles Plost Morris and Sybil Cantor Lois and David Prensky Bonnie and Jeffrey Endick Jon and Barbara Ranhand Fredric and Elaine Gillespie Barbara and Richard Rosenblatt Charles and Gail Gorenstein Donna and James Smith Cheryl Moss Herman and Michael Herman Barry and Sheila Taylor Sandra and David Horowitz Janet and Mark Wallace Fred and Susie Kleiman Madeline and Alan Weinstock Tom and Naomi Miner Sondra Weiss Geoffrey Platnick and Tobi Printz-Platnick Susan and Stuart Woh Phyllis, Joel and Ellen Polster Laura and Peter Rose BONIM (BUILDERS) Margo and David Rosenberg Gary and April Albert Laurie and Matt Rudorfer Terry and Rhona Arbit Gary and Lori Saffitz David and Ilisa Bernstein Jim and Lois Schwartz Marilyn Bier Jodi and Robert Shapiro Judy Blickstein Hilde Stempel Gail and Arnold Brodsky Jeannette and Norman Sturman James and Linda Burgin Judy and Oscar Tunis Diane Castiglione Amy and Stuart Turow Kirk and Andrea Denicoff 19 CHAI BENNY FREEDMAN’S amazing TBA New The Clergy’s help with the service for his Helene and Jeffrey Casper Year's video by Daron and Michelle Freedberg father, GORDON LOUIS DANOFF, by Gary and Lisa and Jon Kaplan Debra Danoff Jane and Dan Laibstain ARZA Melanie Polk In honor of: Carol and Murray Stein ABIGAIL RUSS becoming a Bat Mitzvah by COMPUTER EQUIPMENT FUND Harriet and Arthur Sturm Daniel and Lauren Russ In honor of: Pauline Walstein Dorothy Welan ADMINISTRATIVE FUND IN MEMORY OF MARK GREENSTEIN In memory of: LISA FIRESTONE for receiving the CAMPERSHIP FUND IN MEMORY OF SHANA SWERS Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce In honor of: Michael and Lisa Firestone PAUL and SHERRY ZUCKER for their friend- RABBI BAHT WEISS in support of her decision ship and support by Albert Gladner to perform a marriage ceremony for interfaith couples who vow to create a Jewish home by Jon and Barbara Ranhand CANTOR’S DISCRETIONARY FUND JACK GLICKMAN, brother of Stuart Glickman, In honor of: by Jon and Barbara Ranhand JARED EZRIN’S Bar Mitzvah by Marci, BOB NAGSHINEH, stepfather of David Ferraro, ADULT EDUCATION FUND In honor of: MARILYN LIPOWSKY’S Milestone Birthday by R. Beth and Jack Rosenthal The birth of ESTHER BAYLA TEMIN, granddaughter of Tom and Robin Temin, by Small Business Leader of the Year Award by and join in preserving and nurturing Jewish traditions by Michael and Lisa Firestone HINENI FUND Patrick, Melissa and Alison McCalley In memory of: The marriage of AMANDA WALLACE, daughter JACK GLICKMAN, brother of Stuart Glickman, of Mark and Janet Wallace, by Lois and by Angela and Walter Harris Seymour Fishman PETER McALEVEY, brother of Mitch Rotbert, BENNY McLENAGHAN becoming a Bar by Gerald Callistein and Karen Carp- Mitzvah by JL Levit and Paula Mintzies Callistein MICAH FOUTZ becoming a Bar Mitzvah by JL Levit and Paula Mintzies In honor of: Lois and Seymour Fishman BRIAN ZELVY becoming a Bar Mitzvah by WALTER HARRIS’ Special Birthday by Craig MICHAEL FIRESTONE’S Special Birthday by JL Levit and Paula Mintzies Brockman and Heather Harris; Steven Rob Loewy ADAM HOROWITZ becoming a Bar Mitzvah Rubin and Lara Harris by JL Levit and Paula Mintzies In memory of: The birth of ESTHER BAYLA TEMIN, JEFF YORK, husband of Jo Ann York, by granddaughter of Tom and Robin Temin, by *ISRAEL TRAVEL FUND IN MEMORY OF DAVID CARIN Catherine Copp Mark and Janet Wallace In honor of: JANET SCHILLER, mother of Tom Schiller, by In memory of: NATHANIEL CARIN’s Birthday by Mom and Gary and Judy Tepper SANDY LEVENSON, mother of Stacy Dad (Bobbie and Phil Carin) Steinberg, by Marci, Patrick, Melissa and MOIRA CARIN’S Birthday by Mom and Dad Alison McCalley (Bobbie and Phil Carin); Shaun and Cara STANLEY KRAMER, father of Jonathan O’Connor Kramer, by Ira Dwoskin MARC LOWENTHAL becoming an Eagle Boy In appreciation of: Scout by Aunt Roberta and Uncle Phil Cantor Eschler for helping me with my (Bobbie and Phil Carin ALTER FAMILY SHOFAR END FUND In honor of: COLIN ALTER’S Special Birthday by Shaun 20 and Cara O’Connor; Daron and Michelle Haftorah portion for Rosh Hashanah by Freedberg Betty Loggia Chadashot DECEMBER 2014 KISLEV/TEVET 5775 JNF GROVE FUND and Livia Weinstein JANE TIERMAN MICHAELS by Joseph and In honor of: ANNA “CHAMKA” WEINSTEIN, mother of Don Heather Michaels KENNY LIEBOWITZ for passing the Bar by Jay Weinstein, by Don and Livia Weinstein SUE JACOBSON by Arthur and Linda Jacobson and Janet Liebowitz MORRIS WEINSTEIN, father of Livia Weinstein, GERALD NORTON by Howard Philips and Marci by Don and Livia Weinstein Norton SYLVIA GRUBER SHAPIRO by Ira and Nancy In memory of: MIKHAIL EYZNER by Kira Krivitskiy In honor of: Shapiro HILDE MARION, mother of Sue Fialkoff, by The birth of ESTHER BAYLA TEMIN, ALEXANDER SHORE by Albert and Wendy Cathy Friedman granddaughter of Tom and Robin Temin, by Gonzales Mitchell and Rhonda Gaynor BETTY MINER, mother of Tom Miner, by Tom and Naomi Miner LIBRARY FUND In honor of: LINDA and ART JACOBSON’S 50th Wedding Anniversary by Edward and Elinor Sondik *NURSERY SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP FUND IN MEMORY OF JOEL BLUE In honor of: In memory of: Jody Rosenblum MARILYN LIPOWSKY’S Special Birthday by *LIVE & LEARN FUND IN MEMORY OF SALLY B. KERA KATE HACKERMAN, mother of Leslie Becker, by In honor of: Blue and Family; Jerrold and Karen Greenberg; PRESIDENT’S DISCRETIONARY FUND GLORIA SEELIG, wishing a speedy recovery, by Deena and Ben Klopman In honor of: Janey and Joe Nadler CHARLES TURNER, father/grandfather of Fred, The birth of ESTHER BAYLA TEMIN, MARILYN LIPOWSKY’S Special Birthday by Deborah, Alexandra, and Lauren Turner, by granddaughter of Tom and Robin Temin, by Jody Rosenblum Darren and Julie Sapper Scott and Jacqueline Kauff *MACHANE TBA (RELIGIOUS EDUCATION) SCHOLARSHIP FUND IN MEMORY OF BUD LEVIN In honor of: The engagement of DANI KOMINSKY, daughter RABBIS’ DISCRETIONARY FUND of Stephen and Karen Kominsky, and JARED In memory of: ADLER, by Loretta Blue; Karen and Jerrold JEFFREY VAN GRACK, brother of Steven Van In honor of: Greenberg Grack, by Steven Van Grack The Bat Mitzvah of REBECCA YENTIS, The fabulous school and its high standards by HILDE MARION, mother of Sue Fialkoff, by granddaughter of Paul and Marilyn Yentis, by Philip Hagler Family Trust Linda and Bill Freedman; Annette and Irving Shirley Levin and Jules Bowen The birth of CHARLOTTE REESE LIVINGSTON, Fialkoff The birth of ESTHER BAYLA, granddaughter of granddaughter of Jill and Rick Finci, by The MORTON ARNOLD BARUCH by Douglas and Tom and Robin Temin, by Shirley Levin and TBANS Susan Baruch the Temple Beth Ami Nursery School; Loretta In memory of HILDE and WILLIAM MARION, Jules Bowen ONEG FUND parents of Suzanne Fialkoff . by Seth and Terry MAZON FUND In memory of: Steinberg In memory of: MARK HELLER by Connie Heller HELEN BASS, mother of Gail Roe, by Sheila ALBERT SHERMAN by Ira and Nancy Shapiro In honor of: Yuter WILFRED FINKEL, father of Jackie Kauff, by The marriage of our children, JASON Scott and Jacqueline Kauff LIEBOWITZ and ANAT CHEMERINSKI, and in MUSIC EQUIPMENT FUND SHIRLEY GOODMAN by Keith Goodman appreciation of the Rabbi’s participation in the In memory of: EUGENE DENTON MINER, father of Tom Miner, wedding ceremony by Janet and Jay Liebowitz GRETE NADEL, aunt of Livia Weinstein, by Don by Tom and Naomi Miner Rabbi Luxemburg’s inspiring Rosh Hashanah 21 sermon and for all of his efforts all year long of Jeannette and Norman Sturman, by Sadagursky, by Mitchell and Judith Glassman in the name of Tikkun Olam by Stephanie and Jeannette and Norman Sturman SAM HIPSH, father of Judy (Mitchell) Kevin Ross Glassman, by Peter and Susan Cohen Rabbi Luxemburg’s moving Rosh Hashanah TBA CARES FUND JEFFREY YORK, husband of Jo Ann York, by sermon by Gloria Caro In memory of: Matt Graves SYDNEY ALYSE WHITE, granddaughter of EIZIC INGBER by Gail and Charlie Gorenstein MICHAEL BERG by Mark and Arlynn Joffe Ellis and Dale Koch, becoming a Bat Mitzvah, SYLVIA LAPS by Gail, Charlie, Jeremy and by Ellis and Dale Koch Heather Gorenstein TRUMAH FUND The birth of DAVID GOREN, grandson of MICHAEL BERG, brother of Joanne Brodsky, In memory of: Robert and Marlyn Goren, by Robert and by Mel and Joanne Brodsky and sons GEORGE SADAGURSKY, father of Michael Sadagursky, by Jim and Sharon Lieberman Marlyn Goren ELLIE and ED SONDIK’S Special Anniversary In appreciation of: by Robert and Marjorie Bajefsky TBA cares for their help in a time of need by WTBA LINDA and ART JACOBSON’S Special Leon and Harriet Reiter Donation made by Jeanne and David Kahn to the WTBA Shelter Meals Anniversary Robert and Marjorie Bajefsky TBA TZEDAKAH FUND: In appreciation of: In honor of: *YOUTH ENDOWMENT FUND Rabbi Luxemburg spending time with us by ANDREW FEINSTEIN, grandson of Lillian In memory of: Stephen Greene and Elaine Haemisegger Caplan, for his beautiful Shofar blowing by MIRIAM (MICKEY) BURSTEIN, aunt of Janice Rabbi Luxemburg’s personal and memorable Lillian Caplan Rosenblatt, by David and Lois Prensky ELZWEIG’S wedding by Audrey and Michael *TIKKUN OLAM FUND *Endowment Funds Rollor In honor of: ** as of 10/25/2014 Rabbi Luxemburg’s caring and support in JOYCE AND LARRIE GREENBERG’S 50th presiding over the shiva service for STEFANIE Wedding Anniversary by Harriet and Howard DINMAN by Jon Dinman, Rachel Cohen and Diener Family LUCAS PFAFF and in honor of our 1st wedding The Clergy’s help with the service for his anniversary by Laura Harrison father, GORDON LOUIS DANOFF, by Gary and LIVIA and DON WEINSTEIN’S grandson's Bar Debra Danoff Mitzvah by Barry and Barbara Fayne service at JOYCE ROLLOR and JOEL Rabbi Luxemburg for so beautifully officiating at the Pidyon Haben for our son, Jacob, by In memory of: Julia and Ido Preis SHIRLEY LEVINE, wife of late Rabbi Rueben Levine, by Catherine Copp *SUSTAINING ENDOWMENT FUND HELEN ANNA KAPLAN BASS, mother of Gail In memory of: and Marlene Kirsch HILDE MARION, mother of Suzanne Fialkoff, JACK GLICKMAN, brother of Stuart Glickman, by Steve and Madeline D’Alessio by Louise and Elliott Allentuck Roe, by Louise and Elliott Allentuck; Martin ANDREA ELFIN, wife of Alan Sull, by Dale and 22 In honor of: Ellis Koch The Bar Mitzvah of ASHER MELAMED, grandson GEORGE SADAGURSKY, father of Michael The Story of Hanukkah Hanukkah begins on the 25th day of Kislev (this year it’s Tuesday, December 16) and lasts for eight days. It commemorates Judah Maccabee and his follower’s victory over the army of the Syrian tyrant, Antiochis, in 167 BCE. It celebrates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem, which the Syrians had profaned. According to Talmudic legend, when the Hasmonians recaptured the Temple, they were able to find only enough oil to light the eternal light for one day. But a miracle occurred and the light burned for eight nights. The nightly kindling of the Menorah has become a symbol for both our physical and spiritual resistance to tyranny and assimilation. Jewish tradition has preserved this twofold concept; the heroic Maccabean victory is balanced with the words of the prophet, Zechariah, who declared, “Not by might and not by power, but by My Spirit, says the Lord”. Hanukkah celebrates more then the end of an unsuccessful attempt by an outside power to destroy Judaism. The threat to Judaism was both internal and external. The assimilation to Hellenic culture was so great that certain elements within Jewish society sought to become fully assimilated, at the expense of their own unique Judaic culture. The story of Hanukkah tells of the age-old struggle of the Jewish people to remain Jewish is a non-Jewish world. Hanukkah is a reminder that we, as Jews, are obligated to reaffirm our Jewish identities and loyalties, while recognizing the positive influences of the world in which we live. Hanukkah was traditionally celebrated as a “minor” holiday, but it has increased in Western cultures due to its proximity to Christmas. The mitzvot and customs of Hanukkah include: • Kindling the Hanukkah lights and displaying the lighted Hanukiyah (special menorah for Hanukkah) where it can be seen (usually in a window), We will light the first candle on Saturday, December 8. • Celebrating with games and special foods. The most popular game is a dredial (or sevivon) (see back cover for playing directions). The drediel is a four-sided top with the Hebrew letters, nun, gimel, hay and shin, popularly identified as the Hebrew words Nes Gadol Haya Sham, “A great miracle happened there.” It is traditional to eat food cooked in oil to remind us of the oil that burned for eight days. Potato latkes and sufganiyot (jelly donuts) are the most popular. • Giving modest gifts. Many people exchange gifts during Hanukkah. This practice is part of Hanukkah’s special appeal to children during what has become in our country a time of almost universal gift giving. When given money as a gift, children should be encouraged to use some of tzedakah; families may also choose to donate one night’s gifts to children who would other wise not receive any. Tel: (301) 762-1696 Fax: (301) 762-7691 E-mail: [email protected] Elizabeth G. Loggia, Esq., Of Counsel Ethridge, Quinn, Kemp, McAuliffe, Rowan & Hartinger 33 Wood Lane, Rockville, MD 20850 www.eqkmrh.com Ronnie Lapinsky Sax, CPM® Senior Portfolio Manager Senior Vice President Financial Advisor MORGAN STANLEY [email protected] Makimanta Landscaping Services “Our customers are very important to us. Your satisfaction is our goal. Details are our philosoophy. A job well done is our pride” • • • • • • • Mowing Planting Seeding Fertilizing Mulching Trimming Tree Cutting Debris Removal • Interior/Exterior Painting • Power Washing: • Decks, Porches, Fences Hardwood Flooring • Tile • • Seasonal Services Including Leaf And Snow Removal AND MORE 240-353-1936 [email protected] Licensed & Insured • MHIC #130098 This space available for your ad 1-800-888-4574 FOR AD INFO CALL 1-800-888-4574 © LITURGICAL PUBLICATIONS INC. Be your best self, in all parts of your life Sequence Counseling and Consulting Services provides support for your personal and professional life. Our team of therapists, coaches, consultants and doctors is ready to offer you excellent care to address concerns and develop strengths. A partnership with one goal; achieve the life you are hoping for. Individual Therapy • Couples Therapy Family & Group Therapy • Parenting Support Medication Management • Mind-Body Wellness Career Coaching 3204 Tower Oaks Blvd. Rockville, Maryland 20852 For advertising information call at Wealth Management 7272 Wisconsin Ave 4th Floor Bethesda, MD 20814 Tel: 301-657-6368 Fax: 301-656-1510 Toll free: 800-455-6622 240-200-5401 [email protected] www.sequenceservices.com www.facebook.com/sequenceservices NOVEMBER 10, 2014 11:06 AM TEMPLE BETH AMI, ROCKVILLE, MD 04-0698 G ID FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY Our office is committed to providing personalized, quality care in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. “Value, Reliability and Service...EGGS-actly what you’re looking for!” • Omelettes Made To Order • Hors d’ Oeuvres • Smoked Fish Platters • Pasta Stations • Crepe Stations • N.Y. Rugelach • French Pastries • Fresh Fruit Display • Belgian Waffles • Espresso/Cappuccino, Smoothie Bars • Sushi Stations We welcome new patients to our practice. FULL GOURMET / DAIRY MENU Andrew J. Sorkin, D.M.D., L.L.C. Mark A. Wallace, D.D.S. For All Occasions In Your Home, Office & Outdoors Inquire About Our Corporate & Executive Packages FOR AN EGG-CITING PARTY! 301-340-2800 301-309-0707 1901 Research Blvd., Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20850 Please visit us on the web at www.wallacesorkin.com Mr. Omelette Caterers® will donate 5% of gross food sales on any catered affair held at Temple Beth Ami (with this ad) www.mromelettemd.com / MD VA DC This space available for your ad For advertising information call at 1-800-888-4574 FOR AD INFO CALL 1-800-888-4574 © LITURGICAL PUBLICATIONS INC. NOVEMBER 10, 2014 11:06 AM TEMPLE BETH AMI, ROCKVILLE, MD 04-0698 G ID Ruth Brodsky Consulting Transitioning Students to Higher Education Specializing in Students with Learning Disabilities and ADHD Do you worry that your bright child, who struggles in school, will not get into college? Ruth Brodsky Consulting can ease your concerns through experienced guidance, first-hand knowledge of college campuses and resources, and a caring attitude towards students who work hard for each accomplishment. Janet House Cleaning Professionally Trained, 24 years exp., 100% Residential Services, Reasonable Fee To Fit Your Budget 301-515-0745 Phone: 301-509-8065 or visit us at http://RuthBrodskyConsulting.com SAVE 60% Visit our website & review our testimonials Insured/Bonded www.janetcleaning.com Potomac Lice Lady is a full service lice removal and nit-picking salon. Don’t let lice ruin your life! We use natural products with no pesticides to safely remove lice--and the stress they bring. Got lice? Contact Lauren and Cindi today ! Visit us today on the web at www.potomaclicelady.com or call at 240-390-NITS Lauren Salzberg, Owner [email protected] 2012 Winner StartupNation Leading Moms In Business Competition (800) 888-4574 FOR AD INFO CALL 1-800-888-4574 © LITURGICAL PUBLICATIONS INC. NOVEMBER 10, 2014 11:06 AM TEMPLE BETH AMI, ROCKVILLE, MD 04-0698 G ID Love and Remembrance, Natural Beauty, A Tradition of Caring. JUDEAN MEMORIAL GARDENS Traditional Jewish Burial in the Heart of Montgomery County, Maryland 16225 Batchellors Forest Road, Olney, MD 20832 301-384-1000 • www.judeangardens.com “Ark” - one of 6 original art works created for Judean by Philip Ratner at the turn of the millennium FOR AD INFO CALL 1-800-888-4574 © LITURGICAL PUBLICATIONS INC. Contact Liturgical Publications Today! (800) 888-4574 NOVEMBER 10, 2014 11:06 AM TEMPLE BETH AMI, ROCKVILLE, MD 04-0698 G ID make your mitzvah invitation stand out unique • creative • affordable free full color proof we don’t hit print until you are 100% satisfied bar/bat mitzvah weddings and more warren 240-271-6348 the invitation is the first thing your guests will see make an amazing first impression [email protected] BOARD CERTIFIED OPHTHALMOLOGISTS Dr. Holly Gross Dr. David Yeh Obsessed with the Details. Exotic Tiles • Living Surfaces Custom Cabinets • Kitchens • Baths COMPREHENSIVE EYE CARE CATARACT SURGERY LASER & REFRACTIVE SURGERY CORNEAL SURGERY • GLAUCOMA DIABETES • DRY EYES FREDERICK OFFICE ROCKVILLE OFFICE 5283 Corporate Drive Suite 201 Frederick, MD 21703 301-662-4545 9420 Key West Avenue Suite 405 Rockville, MD 20850 855-549-2020 toll-free www.drhollygross.yourmd.com This space available for your ad DAVIDA’S KITCHEN & TILES For advertising information call Old Town Gaithersburg 435 A&B East Diamond Ave. at 1-800-368-7010 240-361-9331 • www.davidaskitchenandtiles.com FOR AD INFO CALL 1-800-888-4574 © LITURGICAL PUBLICATIONS INC. NOVEMBER 10, 2014 11:06 AM TEMPLE BETH AMI, ROCKVILLE, MD 04-0698 G ID As an actor, I have played many roles over my long career, but perhaps the most important has been Tevye in Fiddler on The Roof. I performed it more than 2,000 times. It has meant so much to me to portray this symbol of the struggle to keep the jewish faith and its traditions alive. I have a deep understanding and appreciation of this struggle, and I believe that the Dignity Memorial® network’s Jewish funeral providers understand this struggle as well. Many of them have been working for generations to preserve Jewish traditions, often in the face of tremendous change. They understand our needs, because they share our history and experiences - and our values. That’s whey I trusted my Dignity Memorial provider with my own funeral planning, and why you, too, should trush them with all of your traditional Jewish funeral needs. Special Packages for Temple Beth Ami Pre-Plan today, like Mr. Bikel PLEASE SUPPORT T HESE ADVERTISE RS, THEY MAKE OUR NEWSLETTE R POSSIBLE CALL ICAL PUBL ICATIONS © LITURG Call today to learn what your Dignity Memorial provide we can do for you. EDWARD SAGEL FUNERAL DIRECTION, INC. 1091 ROCKVILLE PIKE, ROCKVILLE, MD 20852 (301) 217-9400 1-800-888-4 INC. AT 574 Visit our new website - www.SagelFuneralDirection.com Corporate & Social Events 410-727-7777 www.BiddleSt.com FOR AD INFO CALL 1-800-888-4574 © LITURGICAL PUBLICATIONS INC. TEMPLE BETH AMI, ROCKVILLE, MD 04-0698 G ID FOR AD INFO CALL 1-800-888-4574 © LITURGICAL PUBLICATIONS INC. NOVEMBER 10, 2014 11:06 AM TEMPLE BETH AMI, ROCKVILLE, MD 04-0698 G ID 19725 Germantown Rd. Germantown, MD 20874 Mon-Fri: 6am-8pm Sat-Sun: 6am-4pm (301 )-428-1888 • www.royalbagel.com Since 1992 Voted #1 Bakery by the Montgomery County Gazette! Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert, or catering we have exactly what you’re looking for. Come on in and find what you’ve been missing! Thank you, The Royal Family Adam K. Spector, DPM, FACFAS Wheaton/Silver Spring Rockville/Gaithersburg www.fasmallc.com 301.949.FOOT Voted one of the top podiatrists in 2012 by Washingtonian Magazine FOR AD INFO CALL 1-800-888-4574 © LITURGICAL PUBLICATIONS INC. Contact Liturgical Publications Today! (800) 888-4574 NOVEMBER 10, 2014 11:06 AM TEMPLE BETH AMI, ROCKVILLE, MD 04-0698 G ID Chadashot NON PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID ROCKVILLE, MD 20850 PERMIT 761 Temple Beth Ami 14330 Travilah Road Rockville, Maryland 20850-3527 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED Chadashot DECEMBER 2014 TEMPLE STAFF RABBI JACK LUXEMBURG ASSOCIATE RABBI BAHT YAMEEM WEISS CANTOR LARRY ESCHLER CANTORIAL SOLOIST JOSHANA ERENBERG DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION KIM ROBERTS NURSERY SCHOOL DIRECTOR PAULA SAYAG EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JANICE ROSENBLATT PROGRAM DIRECTOR SHELLY LENKIN GORDON SHALIACH LIOR OLINIK CANTOR EMERITAS SUE ROEMER z”l DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION EMERITAS PHYLLIS GREENE NURSERY SCHOOL DIRECTOR EMERITAS KAREN GREENBERG TEMPLE ADMINISTRATOR/EDITOR DIANE FERRARO TEMPLE ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT AMY KEILSON ACCOUNTING JOANNE DIAMOND ACCOUNTING ESTHER ABELSON CLERGY ASSISTANT SUSAN NEUMANN CLERGY ASSISTANT GAIL BRODSKY TBA HIGH SUPERVISOR, GRADES 8 -12 AMY GOLDBERG L’MALA SUPERVISOR, GRADES 3 - 7 LISA GOODMAN L’MATA SUPERVISOR/FAMILY EDUCATOR 3 -7 SHARON TASH L’MALA SUPERVISOR K - 2 LORI FEIN REL. SCH. OFFICE MANAGER/REGISTRAR BOBBIE CHAIT NURSERY SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE ASST. JILL FINCI NURSERY SCHOOL SPECIAL PROJECTS COORDINATOR ELLEN BORTZ CUSTODIAL SUPERVISOR ADILIO GUZMAN BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT TOM TEMIN 1ST VICE PRESIDENT LAURA ROSE 2ND VICE PRESIDENT BUZZ KARPAY 3RD VICE PRESIDENT ROBERT OSHINSKY TREASURER JACK ROSENTHAL ASSISTANT TREASURER JASON LEVINE FINANCIAL SECRETARY STEVE FELDMAN ASSISTANT FINANCIAL SECRETARY BURT FELDMAN RECORDING SECRETARY KEN SAVELL GENERAL COUNSEL BETTY LOGGIA IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT BENITA MARCUS PAST PRESIDENT MITCHELL FROST WOMEN OF TBA REPRESENTATIVE FLORA FELDMAN BROTHERHOOD PRESIDENT IRA GREENSPAN MEMBERS-AT-LARGE: ANDRA ABRAMSON, MELISSA BAUMAN, JERRY CALLISTEIN, ANDREA FEDOCK, JUDI GOOZH, JACKIE KAUFF, KAL MIGLER, NANCY SHAPIRO, MONICA SLATER, DAVID SOROKA KISLEV/TEVET 5775 ĭĴ ļ ąĹĴ ąĵıĦ ľ ąĩķĪ ĮĩĪ ı The Hebrew word for dreidel is sevivon, which means to turn around. The four Hebrew letters on the dreidel stand for “Nes Gadol Haya Sham” – “a great miracle occurred there”. In Israel the letter “peh” (po) replaces “shin” (sham) and the phrase means “a great miracle occurred here”. Each payer begins the game with an equal number of game pieces (about 10-15), such as pennies, nuts, chocolate, raisins, etc. At the beginning of each round, every participant put one game piece into the center “pot”. In addition, every time the pot is empty or has only one game piece left, every player should put one game piece in the pot. At your turn, spin the dreidel once. Depending on the outcome, you give or get game pieces from the pot: Nun = nothing (nisht). The player does nothing Gimel = everything (gantz). The player gets everything in the pot. Hey = half (halb). The player gets half of the pot (if there is an odd number of pieces in the pot, the player takes half of the total plus one) Shin= put in (shtel) (In Israel, peh = pay). The player adds a game piece to the pot. When you have no more game pieces, you are either out or may ask a fellow player for a loan. The game is over when one person has won everything. Temple Beth Ami is a caring, inclusive congregational community united by Torah, guided by the philosophy of reform Judaism and committed to the Jewish people. We provide the foundation and resources to our congregants to engage in life-long Jewish learning, the pursuit of spiritual growth and the promotion of social justice for all.
© Copyright 2024 ExpyDoc
