Congregation B’nai Israel 6525 Sylvania Avenue Sylvania OH 43560 (419) 517-8400 A Congregation Affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 147 Years of Consecrated Service to God, Torah and Israel www.cbitoledo.org February 1 - 28, 2014 1 Adar 1 - 28 Adar I 5774 SHABBAT-LUCK TURN FRIDAY NIGHTS INTO SHABBAT Friday, February 21, 2014 6:45 p.m. You are invited to celebrate Shabbat with a potluck dinner. Members of our congregation will simultaneously host a Shabbat dinner in their homes. The main dish (typically dairy) will be provided and guests will be asked to bring an assigned item such as a salad, challah, wine, or dessert. Bring your family, friends, and prospective members! You have the option of choosing a home or being assigned a home. We will try to accommodate special requests such as Kashruth, animal-free homes, homes with your friends, etc. To RSVP, contact Fran Weinblatt by e-mail at [email protected] or call (419) 290-9697. Please be sure to include your contact information and the number of people in your group. RSVP by February 12, 2014 We look forward to being with you! Saturday, February 15, 2014 FAMILY SHABBAT SERVICE Bring your family and enjoy a very lively, participatory and inspiring Shabbat Service. 1 NOTES FROM THE CANTOR Surviving Winter When we first moved to Toledo two and a half years ago the first two winters were so mild that we decided to give up the garage we were renting. We thought it a waste of money. In fact that first winter Jan had stayed behind in Arizona to try to sell our home before joining me seven months later. I recall texting her beautiful photos I had taken at Wildwood where I walked even in winter. Boy how we regret that now! I am out every morning at 6:00 a.m. de-icing and warming up our cars before heading off to morning minyan where a few stalwarts, led by our fearless minyan leader Howard Rosenbaum, huddle in our intimate and wellwarmed chapel for early morning davening. Then it is off to Panera for coffee and a good schmooze during which most of the world’s difficult problems are solved. By the time you read this article Jan and I will be back in Tucson, Arizona, where I was invited back for a scholar-in-residence program culminating in a concert on Saturday night. It will be wonderful to be reunited with old friends and former congregants, even a few B’nai Israel members who are wintering in Arizona; not to say anything of the welcome opportunity to thaw out a little, grab some sun, watch the Superbowl with family, before returning back to Ohio. Having spent two decades there, we retain many wonderful memories and deep friendships we will always cherish. But for those who remain here and are not fortunate to be in Florida and other places not so affected by the arctic blasts, there is much at B’nai Israel to help you survive the winter, keep you indoors and your spiritual life intact. Here are but a few examples – Family Shabbat on February 15, a participatory and uplifting experience; Shabbat Luck on February 21 when you will have the opportunity to go to any host’s home to experience shabbat together; a gabbai training class on February 24th at 6 p.m.; haftorah trop class (date to be determined); exciting Purim events like Vashti’s Banquet on Sunday, March 9th; traditional Purim celebration Saturday night, March 15th with full megillah reading and the not to be missed and better than ever Purim Spiel ‘Hakunah Megillah’ written by Deena, Sophie and Meira Zucker on Sunday morning, March 16th. This will be followed by USY led carnival and lunch. I am most gratified that we will also be welcoming back Rabbi Jason Miller more frequently throughout the year for shabbat and other programs. Watch for details and dates when he is coming. In addition to these special programs, every shabbat we have uplifting services and a first class kiddush. Inside our beautiful sanctuary the atmosphere at services will warm your heart and body, I assure you. Ask those who come week after week. But we would like to see more of all of you! Stay well and keep warm. Hazzan Ivor Lichterman We wish to thank the following individuals who have provided “schnops” for our Shabbat kiddush. Jeff Bauer Jim Sack Andy Sattler 2 Meira Zucker MESSAGE FROM RABBI MILLER Making Our Synagogue Our Home The most well known modern Orthodox rabbi in America is Rabbi Avi Weiss. In the 1980s he was known for the work he did on behalf of Soviet Jewry, sometimes even getting arrested for chaining himself to buildings in protest of the Soviet regime. In fact, he's probably been arrested for civil disobedience more than any other rabbi. In recent months many Jews from all of the liberal denominations have rallied to support Rabbi Weiss who has drawn criticism from the Israeli Chief Rabbinate who claimed that his conversions would not be valid for weddings in Israel. This was surprising as he is considered to be one of the great congregational rabbis of our generation. A few years ago I attended a retreat with other rabbis who had been ordained less than ten years (the 10 year anniversary of my ordination will be in May, 2014). The retreat was for alumni of the STAR (Synagogue Transformation and Renewal) Foundation’s PEER (Professional Education for Excellence in Rabbis) Executive Leadership Program. It was the fourth STAR PEER retreat I attended. During the first year of this program I took part in two online courses about executive leadership in the rabbinate. At this particular alumni retreat I had the opportunity to learn from Rabbi Avi Weiss. Now a rabbi in Riverdale, NY, and a pioneer in the progressive Orthodox movement, Rabbi Weiss (or “Reb Avi” as he is known) is the author of the book Spiritual Activism: A Jewish Guide to Leadership and Repairing the World. Through studying different texts together, Rabbi Weiss gave us rabbis a new lens for understanding our jobs, congregations, and Jewish communities. We looked in depth at the two different covenants (divine promises) of the Torah. In Bereshit (Genesis), we learn of the covenant of family. The other four books of the Torah document the covenant of nationhood (or peoplehood). Without the covenant of family we could never have developed into the Jewish nation. Rabbi Weiss used this idea to encourage us to understand our own congregations and communities as mishpacha (family) as he does. Our communities are to be places where, as members of a family, we are responsible for one another. We should care for each other just as members of a family do. He also helped us to see our synagogue the way he sees his – as a bayit (home). He encouraged us to create homes that are heterogeneous, inclusive, and welcoming to people from multi-generations and from different points of entry. With the community as a mishpacha and the synagogue as a bayit, Rabbi Weiss explained that the rabbi can then serve as a familial leader. Rabbi Weiss is a seasoned veteran of the pulpit rabbinate and served as a wise sage for the young rabbis at the retreat. Together, we explored the three houses of the synagogue structure: beit tefilah (house of worship), beit k’nesset (house of gathering), and beit midrash (house of study). Rabbi Weiss, a successful change agent in the field of social justice, demanded that we “go out there and change the world.” He charged us by reminding us that being a rabbi is a sacred task and an awesome responsibility. We concluded our final session with Rabbi Avi Weiss as a family of rabbis -- Reform, Reconstructionist, Conservative and Orthodox rabbis, repeating the Hebrew word “yachad“ (together). I hope to impart and use some of the holy wisdom I derived from learning at the feet of such an influential rabbi like Avi Weiss as I begin to serve as the interim rabbi of our holy congregation. Together, we will continue to make our congregation feel more like a family… and our shul more like a home. Please know that as the interim rabbi of the congregation I am available to you for your pastoral and lifecycle needs and I look forward to working in concert with Cantor Lichterman. Rabbi Jason Miller, Interim Rabbi 3 PRESIDENTS’ CORNER “A lot of people like snow. I find it to be an unnecessary freezing of water.” - Carl Reiner As we all struggle through this beautiful winter wonderland, we want to remind you that CBI is a warm retreat, with welcoming friends and fresh tuna salad waiting for you every Shabbat! Despite the cold and snow, we have seen so many people the past month showing up to celebrate the Bar Mitzvah of Noah Leizerman, to sing the special songs of Shabbat Shirah, and to toast a “L’Chaim” and dance. There is always something happening at CBI. Rabbi Jason Miller will be in town for Shabbat on February 1. Please come and welcome him as he becomes a regular fixture in our shul. Please say hello to Larry Johnson, who will be working at CBI as our “houseman” - setting up and tearing down meeting rooms, making repairs, shoveling snow, spot cleaning, and organizing everything - in addition to his duties as an employee of Toledo Building Services. We are constantly evaluating our needs and the building’s condition, so if you know of something that needs attention, please contact Caren Zaft in the office. And as you are trudging through the snow, just remember: Purim is March 16! There will be a new silly contest before the Spiel; details to follow. Michael Podolsky and Meira Zucker Co-presidents 150-Year Anniversary Honor - Celebrate - Inspire Introducing Congregation B’nai Israel’s 150th Anniversary Fund “May God who blessed our ancestors....bless those who unite to establish synagogues....and those who give funds for heat and light”...(Siddur Sim Shalom for Shabbat and Festivals) It is in the spirit of the above text that we formally introduce this very special fund. The funds in this account will help to support the year-long activities for our 150th anniversary, which begins in September, 2016 and will continue throughout 2017. There will be many programs to mark this momentous time in our congregation's history, and in order to offset some of the costs that will be incurred, our Board of Trustees has created a special category of giving. This category will be available from the present time through the end of the celebration year in 2017. When making a contribution to Congregation B'nai Israel in remembrance of loved ones' life cycle events, we encourage you to designate your gift to the 150th Anniversary Fund. Thank you, Fagie Benstein and Sharon Stein Co-chairmen USY & KADIMA CBI Youth Lounge Hours Monday - Thursday 2:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. For more information contact Stephen Lamb, Youth Director [email protected] 4 March Bat Mitzvah Madison Smith will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, March 1, 2014 at Congregation B’nai Israel. Madison is the daughter of Steven (Michelle) Smith and Andrea (Chris) Sons, sister to Haley, and granddaughter to London and Debra Mitchell, Tracy and Linda Clark, and the late Howard and Betty Smith. Madison attended the Hebrew Academy through the fourth grade and is currently in the seventh grade at Timberstone Junior High in Sylvania where she is an honor student. Madison has a love for all animals, and she especially enjoys riding horses. She enjoys sketching and arts and crafts in her spare time. For her Mitzvah project Madison is collecting board games and children’s activities to be donated to Ebeid Hospice in Sylvania, Ohio. Madison is looking forward to celebrating her Bat Mitzvah with family and friends. Daily Services HAKUNA MEGILLAH Sundays: Mon.-Thurs: Friday: Saturday: A Disney Purim Spiel By 3Z Productions Deena, Sophie and Meira Zucker 9:30 A.M. 7:00 A.M. — 5:45 P.M. 7:00 A.M. — 5:00 P.M. 9:30 A.M. see schedule below for P.M. hours Shabbat Service Sunday, March 16, 2014 10:00 a.m. For fun, laughs, guffaws, and all-out silliness come to our Purim Spiel followed by our annual Purim Carnival. Saturday, February 1, 2014 5:00 p.m. Saturday, February 8, 2014 5:15 p.m. Saturday, February 15, 2014 5:30 p.m. Saturday, February 22, 2014 5:30 p.m. Friday evening services will begin at 5:00 p.m. until further notice. The day includes Jokes for Princes and Princesses of all ages. Sing along to your favorite Disney tunes. Featuring a cast of extremely talented, enthusiastic, and brave members of CBI. Due to the inclement weather, please call before Friday night, Saturday evening or daily minyan services. We may have to cancel services for the safety of our congregants. Thank you for your understanding. Join us for games, gifts, lunch and Hamentaschen 5 SISTERHOOD B’nai Israel Sisterhood Book Club Tuesday, February 25, 2014 11:00 a.m. in the B’nai Israel library. There will not be an evening session The Book Club will be reviewing two books: Russ & Daughters: reflections and recipes from the house that herring built, by Mark Russ Federman and Messages from my Father: a memoir, by Calvin Trillin. Stop by for an engaging discussion and a cup of coffee with the group. PHYLLIS DIAMOND JUDAIC GIFT SHOP Wednesdays 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sundays 9:30 a.m. – noon (when Sunday School is in session) TODAH RABAH To the wonderful “Shikker Sponsors” of the fabulous L’Chaim Event Michelle & David Bader Anne & Jeff Bauer Fagie & Eli Benstein Paul Causman Harriet & Marty Davis Phyllis Diamond Luann & Bill Garber Susan & Marc Glasser JoJo & Stuart Goldberg Shelly & Tom Helberg Inge Horowitz Susan & Steve Kaufman Jill & Matt Kripke Rena & Michael Leizerman Leslie & Michael Podolsky Darlene & Michael Portnoy Sheila & Bruce Post Cheryl & Stephen Rothschild Jim Rothschild Arlene & Jerry Russell Kathy & Jimmy Sack Sandy & Chuck Traugott Wanda & Ron Wachsman Dena & David Zack Meira & David Zucker Carolyn Z. and Jerry Lemieux Winners of the Martini contest . Martini Winner Sailing to St. Somewhere… Ingredients: 1/4 wedge of lime! 12 fresh blueberries! 1.5 oz. Absolut Vodka! 3.5 oz. fresh pink grapefruit juice (from Fresh Market)! 1 teaspoon St. Germain elderflower liqueur! Large twist of grapefruit rind for garnish! Instructions: Squeeze lime into a large cocktail shaker equipped with a strainer. Add the squeezed lime and blueberries, and muddle well. Add the vodka, grapefruit and St. Germain. Add ice and shake well. Strain and serve in a cold martini glass, garnished with the grapefruit rind. Makes one 6 oz. drink. L’chaim was an outstanding success and enjoyed by all who attended. Todah Rabah to the many people who worked on the event. 6 RELIGIOUS SCHOOL Religious School Open House Sunday, March 2, 2014 Prospective students are invited to join our program, meet our dedicated staff and learn about our amazing curriculum. Despite the winter weather, we managed to accomplish a lot in the few days of Religious School that we had in January. Our kitah hay class ( 5th )is still working diligently on their Penny Wars tzedekah project collecting money for Jewish Family Service. Please help them with this important project by sending in change with your students weekly. Every penny helps. Our kitah daled (3-4th) baked cookies and had a bake sale to benefit Jewish Family Service. They initiated this project all on their own! February Religious School Calendar Sunday Wednesday Sunday Wednesday Wednesday Sunday Wednesday The 8th and 9th grade girls still enjoy getting together with Shomer Emunim on a monthly basis for an amazing Rosh Hodesh program. Our B’nai Mitzvah class book club has been great, thanks to Marcia Kaplan for facilitating the joint program with Shomer Emunim. The students meet and disuss The Four Perfect Pebbles. Everyone enjoys dancing and singing with Nick Thanasiu weekly, especially our Torah Tot students. February 2- Religious School and Jewish Disabilities Awareness Program February 5, 2014 February 9, 2014 February 12, 2014 February 19, 2014 February 23, 2014 February 26, 2014 The Community Disability Awareness program is February 2, 2014 at Congregation B’nai Israel. The younger students will have a program at Shomer Emunim. Kim Brody Principal RELIGIOUS SCHOOL ACTIVITIES Lucas and his teacher, Abe Cantor Lichterman teaching a class how to put on tefillin Colin and Emma Alice & Sylvia dancing 7 MAZEL TOV SPECIAL BIRTHDAYS Stephen & Nancy Goldberg on the birth of their Grandson, Ethan David Goldberg to Daniel & Lena Goldberg. Proud great-grandmother is Harriet Goldberg. Steven Burke Ellen Chabler Deborah Orloff Zachary Morse Colin Thaler Blair Helberg Amy Damrauer Jennifer Zaurov, daughter of Irina and Greg Zaurov, was the only person from Ottawa Hills High School and the third student in the greater Toledo area who was recognized by the United States Achievement Academy as a National Leadership Merit Award Winner 2012-2013. 2/9 2/9 2/11 2/11 2/16 2/23 2/27 SPECIAL ANNIVERSARIES 2/2 Fred & Ruth Mahler 40 years. SIMCHA TREE CLASSES WITH THE CANTOR “The Tree of Life” Leaves – $100 Stones - $1000 Gabbai Training Monday, February 24, 2014 at 6:00 p.m. come to B’nai Israel and learn how to become a Gabbai. This one hour class will give you the techniques necessary to serve as a special participant in torah services. The following leaves have recently been inscribed on the B’nai Israel Simcha Tree In Honor of Howard Rosenbaum’s Special Birthday Haftorah Chanting Have you always wanted to learn how to chant Haftorah?? Hazzan Lichterman will be teaching a class. Contact the office at 419-517-8400 for details and let us know you are interested. Steve & Linda Jacobson Randy & Brenda Soverinsky Lou & Sally Soverinsky In Honor of the Birth of our Grandson Shay Landon Pearl Love, PaPa Tom and Grandma Shelley Helberg S.O.A.P. (Synagogue Organized Afternoon Program) a stimulating discussion of Jewish current events with Hazzan Ivor Lichterman Wednesdays 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. in the B’nai Israel Library ALL ARE WELCOME IMPORTANT LIBRARY INFORMATION We have changed our link for the library to be more user-friendly. The new link is: www.librarything.com/catalog/ bnaiisraelsylvania 8 Was I a villain or victim? Hear my story and you be the judge! Queen Vashti, ALIVE AND IN PERSON, returns to tell her story. She looks forward to meeting you. Sunday, March 9th, 2014 7 Adar II 9:30 a.m. B’nai Israel Spectacular Persian Brunch befitting our own Royals prepared by Persian Chef Jeffrey Sherman $15.00 per person Just as Queen Esther was the heroine, and Mordechai was the hero, Sisterhood will recognize and honor our Religious School aides (our very own heroes and heroines) at this special program; Josh Brody, Sari Kripke, Emma Podolsky, Morgan Segall, Josh Sherman, Sam Zack, and Deena Zucker. February Kiddush Sponsors February 1 Phyllis Diamond and Shirley Gerber Jewels fit for a queen designed by three Israeli artists will be available for purchase. The royal designers are Ayla Bar, Yoolie’s and Angie Alomi. FROM THE KITCHEN….. Many people have enjoyed the delicious Kiddush lunches following Shabbat services each week. There are a variety of costs and lots of work that is required to present a lunch each week for our congregants. In order to continue serving the wonderful weekly Kiddush lunches we are asking you to help offset the costs through sponsorship. There are different ways to sponsor a Kiddush lunch: Donate to the Kiddush fund Sponsor partially Sponsor with others Sponsor for a simcha Sponsor just because……... Thank you to all who have sponsored and donated already. We look forward to continuing this special time the congregation has created and supported after services together. Israeli Jewelry connoisseurs and co-chairs are Tova Eisenberg and Luann Garber. Vashti Event co-chairs are Anne Bauer and Ann Rosenberg. This event is open to all loyal subjects, proud parents, grandparents, gals and guys of the Kingdom of B’nai Israel relocated from downtown Shushan, Persia BCE. Cost to sponsor a simple Kiddush is $300.00. Watch for your invitation in the mail soon! Please call the synagogue office, 419-517-8400 to help sponsor a kiddush. 9 Contributions for January Minimum Contributions are $10.00 Please note: More generous contributions will be indicated in the following ways: * denotes B’nai Mitzvah-$13.00 ** denotes Chai-$18.00 *** denotes Silver-$25.00 **** denotes double Chai - $36 A box denotes Gold-$50.00 A bold box denotes Platinum-$100.00 Tribute Fund Yahrzeit Aron Kaplan, Brother Beatrice Kaplan, Mother & Grandmother Florence Schwartz, Mother & Grandmother Chuck & Sharon Schwartz & Family* Joseph Fingerhut, Grandfather Louis Fingerhut, Uncle Isadore Fingerhut, Uncle Barry & Esther Sherman*** Mary Pintis Zale & Shirley Kohler*** Frances Swolsky, Beloved Mother Jeff & Sherry Phillips, & Elaine Aubin Rose Worshtil Scheer Dr.David Scheer & family Kiddush Fund Yahrzeit Isabel Korman, Beloved Mother Arnold & Marlene Remer** Abraham Altman, Grandfather Jerry & Arlene Russell Freida Russell, Grandmother Jerry & Arlene Russell Harry D. Chabler Allen & Ellen Chabler Harry Yaffee Saundra Yaffee Harry Goldman Gordon Goldman & Roz Solomon*** Gertrude Goldman Gordon Goldman & Roz Solomon*** Rebecca Betty Fogel, Beloved Mother Helen Boxenbaum** Deena Kaufman, Beloved Mother & Grandmother Steve, Susan, Eli & Max Kaufman *** In Memory Shabbat Prayer Book Etz Hayim Bible Tree of Life Leaf Tree of Life Stone Memorial Plaque Kiddush Lunch $65.00 $100.00 $100.00 $1000.00 $500.00 $300.00 REMEMBER B’NAI ISRAEL IN YOUR WILL Bobbi and Amy Rosenbloom Howard & Chris Epstein** Linda Russell Anita Beckerman, Miriam Beckerman’s Mother Inge Horowitz*** Leah Connor Ron & Wanda Wachsman** Arleen Levine Good Health Tribute Marilyn Reinstein Irwin Rosenbloom & Rochelle Russell In Honor of Harry Gometz Fund Arnie & Marlene Remer, 55th Anniversary Eli Abramson & Nora Romanoff Howard Rosenbaum, Special Birthday Eli Abramson & Nora Romanoff** Phyllis Diamond Ron & Wanda Wachsman**** Yahrzeit Frances Gometz Greg, Hope, Jeremy, Adam, & Andy Davis Ann Waldman Deann Shapiro In Appreciation Michael & Renee Quiroga B'nai Israel Ron and Wanda Wachsman Yahrzeit Religious School Fund Esther Goldberg Bill & Dorothy Goldberg**** Yahrzeit In Memory Edith Friedman Eileen Manoff Rose Scheer, Mother Marianne E. Scheer*** Rudy Ertis, Beloved Husband Jan Steinberg & family*** Melvin Fogel Jerry & Ruth Gold Irv Jacobson Marty & Ruth Sitzmann Harris /Williams Fund In Memory In Memory Kate Weinberg Alex Hurwitz Arlene Brookenthal Anita Beckerman, Miriam Beckerman’s Mother David & Debbie Perlmutter & Family Good Health Tribute Howard Rosenbaum, Special Birthday Roy Treuhaft*** Good Health Tribute Marilyn Reinstein Howard & Karen Rosenbaum Building Fund Yahrzeit Harry Bustow Lillian B. Petler** Bertha Kohler Treuhaft Lillian B. Petler** Robert Barry Schuller Goldye Schuller In Memory Jadzia Greenbaum, Ann Rosenberg's Mother Jack & Diana Lipszyc*** In Honor of Howard Rosenbaum, Special Birthday Tom & Shelley Helberg**** Marilyn Devenow Building Beautification Yahrzeit Susana Bernstein Jonathan, Jeannette, Natalie & Kayla Bernstein** Art and Cal Katz Sanctuary Fund Yahrzeit Sam Schwartz Minyan Fund Marilyn Reinstein Arlene Brookenthal In Honor of In Honor of David Katz, Special Birthday Robert Siegel Rabbi & Meira Saks, new grandchild Howard & Karen Rosenbaum Jadzia Greenbaum, Ann Rosenberg's Mother 10 Louis Lipszyc Jack & Diana Lipszyc*** Jean Liber Sherrie Zaft In Memory Mel Conn Jan Katz * Cantor’s Discretionary Fund Yahrzeit Sam Goodleman Karen Lieberman* Abraham Altman, Beloved Grandfather Freida Russell, Beloved Grandmother Merv & Marlene Russell In Appreciation Cantor Lichterman Doug Wachter 150th Anniversary Yahrzeit David Goldberg Stu & JoJo Goldberg Jean Liber, Beloved Mother Steve & Cathy Sperling*** Doris Goldberg Stu & JoJo Goldberg +P/GOQT[ Nina Kass Sanford & Sharon Stein* Anita Beckerman, Miriam Beckerman's Mother Sanford & Sharon Stein* Jadzia Greenbaum Ann Rosenberg's Mother Sanford & Sharon Stein* Youth Activities Scholarship Fund Yahrzeit Norman Podolsky Jeanne Podolsky Charles Liber Joel & Judy Scheinbach & Family** Sherwin and Naomi Kripke Israel Program Abraham Smith Sondra Gallis & family Yahrzeit Hy Auslander, Father Chuck & Fran Weinblatt** Hy Auslander, Husband Evelyn Auslander Harry Levison Alfred Levison** Rose Levison Ira Levison & Family*** Charles & Jeanette Rabinowitz Beryl & Ada Rabinowitz** Jacob & Sarah Cooperman Florence Ostrow* Rabbi Morris Adler, Father Eli & Fagie Benstein*** Sam Gallis, Beloved Father, Grandfrather & Great Grandfather Sondra Gallis & family In Honor of Howard Rosenbaum, Special Birthday Joel & Linda Beren **** In Honor of Arnie & Marlene Remer, Special Anniversary Sanford & Sharon Stein* Sharon Rappaport & Stan Joehlin*** Howard Rosenbaum, Special Birthday Sanford & Sharon Stein* Rabbi & Meira Saks, Grandchild Sanford & Sharon Stein* Caren Zaft, New position at CBI Don & Mary Perlmutter* Torah Fund Residence Hall Campaign of the Jewish Theological Seminary Phyllis Diamond.…..531-5005 Marilyn Reinstein…..882-8757 In Memory Anita Beckerman, mother of Miriam Beckerman Arnie & Marlene Remer Phyllis Diamond Sylvia Glassman Belle Swartz Phyllis Diamond Robert Golden, Marilyn J. Reinstein Fredda Barnes Phyllis Diamond Arnie & Marlene Remer Sherrie & Caren Zaft Good Health Tribute Yale Roberts Camp Ramah Fund Arthur Friedman Marilyn J. Reinstein Marilyn J. Reinstein Arthur & Marcia Friedman Yahrzeit In Honor of J. Nemo Wexler Sandy Wexler & Stuart Dunn Chuck Wexler & Family In Memory of Mel Conn Kathryn Linver Arnie & Marlene Remer – 55th Anniversary Marilyn J. Reinstein Elaine Hershman Sherrie Zaft Phyllis Diamond Caren Zaft Evy Auslander Jerry Feldstein & Corrine Adler In Appreciation David & Judy Weinberg Arnie & Marlene Remer CANTOR’S DISCRETIONARY FUND Congregation B’nai Israel gratefully acknowledges a generous gift to our Building Fund from Dan Steinberg through the Savage & Associates, Inc. Foundation in honor of Don (z’l) and Jan Steinberg and William and Helene Sherman It is customary to honor our clergy with a monetary gift on occasions when they have extended themselves for us. In times of distress and mourning, for simchas and any other acts of kindness, a donation can be sent to the Cantor’s Discretionary Fund in appreciation. This fund is used by Hazzan Lichterman to provide financial aid to congregants in need, support educational projects and programming, etc. Please consider a gift to this fund so our Hazzan can continue his good works. All contributions to the fund will be acknowledged in the bulletin. 11 February Yahrzeits Febuary 1 – I Adar 1.. Arthur Edelstein, Freda Hallem, Febuary 2 – I Adar 2….. Abe Levine, Lillian Save Febuary 3 – I Adar 3….. Charlotte Goldhammer, Janette Rabinowitz, Fannie Ravin, Esther Schwartz, Lillian Vogel Febuary 4 – I Adar 4….. Abraham Altman, Lisa Feilhardt, Irving Kart, William Rothman, Milton Waldman buary 5 – I Adar 5… Wolf Nistel, Leah Saks, Febuary 6 – I Adar 6….. Mollie Kahn, Edward Minsky, February 7– I Adar 7….. David Frankel, Nathan Weinstein February 8 – I Adar 8….. Bernice Goldstein, Jacob Lieberman, Irene Rosenberg, Anna Shoffer February 9 – I Adar 9…. Bernard Baker February 10 – I Adar 10….. Sylvia Applebaum, Manuel Goldman, Rose Klein, Joseph Krawetz, Abraham Mindel, Wilfred Williams February 11 – I Adar 11….. Gladys Becker, Helen Goldhammer, Jacob Torchin February 12 – I Adar 12…..Susana Bernstein, Frances Swolsky February 13 – I Adar 13….. Minnie Bateman, Hyman Davis, Louis Friedman, Irma Rothschild, Irene Steinberg February 14 – I Adar 14..Faye Edelstein, Betty Fine, Samuel Gallis, Nachoma Lichtenstein, Gertie Pinsky, Sandra Remer, Jeanette Rosen, Masha Weissfeld February 16 – I Adar 16….. James Fox, Mildred Friedman, In Memoriam Our synagogue family mourns the loss of : Melvin Fogel Beloved brother of Helen Boxenbaum Mike Pontelle Beloved uncle of Hope Davis Sam Litwin, William Palman, Max Rabinowitz, Freida Russell, Irving Scheinbach February 17 – I Adar 17….. Ida Salzman, Anna Schuller, Hyman Wallick February 18 – I Adar 18….. Morris Gersz February 19 – I Adar 19….. Rabbi Morris Adler, Ralph Harris, Erwin Hoffman, Theodore Resnick, February 20 – I Adar 20….. Max Hersh, Jean Liber, Usher Markowicz, Oscar Soldinger February 21 – I Adar 21….. Jennie Bloom, Albert Burg, Manuel Tarschis, Joe Nemo Wexler February 22 – I Adar 22….. Marion Manoff, Arnold Sells February 23 – I Adar 23….. Rose Arnovitz, Julius Boxenbaum, Celia Harris, Mollie Jaffee, Rose Scheer, Hazel Stahl February 24 – I Adar 24…Ruth Berenson, Anna Friedmar, Doris Goldberg, Diane Markowicz, Helen Wilk February 25 – I Adar 25….. Sam Goodleman, February 26 – I Adar 26…..Harmon Rusgo, Maurice Shuer, Bertha Toplin February 27– I Adar 27….. Richard Friedmar, Jack Gallon, Sam Goodman, Ralph Kwait, William Schuller February 28 – I Adar 28….. David Botsch, Leo Lesky, Ben Levine, Lottie Sattinger, Bernard Schulak, Selma Shore, Phillip Smullin CHESED COMMITEE Never are we more aware Of how much friends and family mean Than at the time of bereavement. When a bereavement or serious illness befalls you or your loved one, the newly formed Chesed Committee at Congregation B’nai Israel is there to assist you. Please contact Hazzan Lichterman for further information. Committee members will maintain strict confidentiality. Cemetery Hours PLEASE LET US KNOW…... Sunday through Thursday 6:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday 6:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. If you or someone you know is in the hospital or would appreciate a visit at home from the Hazzan, please call the shul office at 419-517-8400 or email [email protected] Closed Saturday and all religious Jewish Holidays 12 Congregation B’nai Israel 6525 Sylvania Ave Sylvania OH 43560 Hazzan Ivor Lichterman [email protected] Youth Director Stephen Lamb [email protected] Synagogue Administrator Caren Zaft [email protected] Synagogue Outreach Coordinator Rhoda Miller [email protected] Religious School Principal Kim Brody [email protected] Minyan Leader Howard Rosenbaum Bookkeeper Lou Steingroot [email protected] p (419) 517-8400 f (419) 517-8401 www.cbitoledo.org Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo Toledo Jewish Community Foundation Attn: Mr. Dan Steinberg, Chair Mrs. Arleen R. Levine, Director 6465 Sylvania Avenue Sylvania, Ohio 43560 Dear Dan and Arleen, On behalf of the B’nai Israel Board of Trustees and our entire congregation, we want to thank you for the very generous and heartfelt grant to Congregation B’nai Israel. This check represents the significant allocation that the Jewish Community Foundation made to the three Congregational Religious Schools this year, and we sincerely appreciate your meaningful donation. Congregation B’nai Israel understands the costs of operating our Religious School. By relying on the generosity of our congregants and donors, such as The Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo and the Toledo Jewish Community Foundation, we are able to provide a positive lifetime educational experience for our youth and the entire Toledo Jewish Community. Your generous donation helps support Congregation B’nai Israel’s mission to permit the accessibility of a religious education to all students. Our congregation and our students, especially, appreciate the Federation’s support of that goal. Thank you again for your most generous gift and have a healthy and happy new year. Very truly yours, Michael Podolsky and Meira Zucker, Co-Presidents Michael Portnoy, Vice President of Youth and Education A Conservative Congregation affiliated with United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 13 SUPPORTED BY YO U R C A M PA I G N G I F TS AT WO R K JEWISH FEDERATION OF GREATER TOLEDO UPCOMING EVENTS You are cordially invited to join us as we continue our series of live broadcasts. The Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo is proud to present some of the 92nd Street Y’s highly regarded lecture series, made available via live simulcast to Jewish institutions all over the world. This program, open to the entire Jewish community, is a cooperative effort of Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo, JFGT Department of Jewish Programs and Temple Shomer Emunim. Tuesday, February 4 Amy Chua and Jed Rubenfeld Success in America 8:15 p.m. (reception at 7 p.m.) Temple Shomer Emunim, 6453 Sylvania Ave. of Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother) and Jed Rubenfeld (both Yale professors) discuss their new book, The Triple Package, and expose the three unlikely traits that explain the rise and fall of cultural groups in America, in a talk that could transform the way you think about success and achievement. Monday, March 24 Simon Schama The Story of the Jews 8:15 p.m. (reception at 7:15 p.m.) Temple Shomer Emunim 1000 BC-1492 AD (a new book and television series, soon to air on PBS) takes us all over India, Spain, Oxford, Syria, Paris, Cairo and beyond to show how Jews everywhere lived not as a people apart, but as a vital force in any society they joined, inspiring and being inspired by everything around them. Husband-and-wife team Amy Chua (author Schama’s The Story of the Jews: Finding the Words Please register to 419-724-0354 or [email protected]. Babysitting is available, by request, for all 92nd St Y™ programs. Save the Date Florida Snowbird Brunch March 16, 2014 Ballenisles Country Club Palm Beach Gardens, Florida Jewish Federation & Foundation YOUR CAMPAIGN AND LEGACY GIFTS AT WORK 92|Y events are generously supported by Ruth and Ralph Delman. The Senior Adult Programs of the Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo are supported in part through your campaign dollars and through a generous grant from the Jewish Senior Services Supporting Organization. All events are part of the Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo and occasionally take place at the various synagogues. Please note registration deadlines for all programs! To register for a Jewish Federation Senior Program, please call 419-724-0354 or email [email protected]. To register for a Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo senior program, please call 419-724-0354 or email [email protected] Thursday, February 6 Thanks. I Needed That. And other Stories of the Spirit by Robert Alper Noon Congregation B’nai Israel 6525 Sylvania Avenue $5 per person – includes lunch, author presentation and book Warm, touching stories that evoke laughter and tears, as told by a rabbi who became a full-time stand-up comic (really). The Tonight Show, the forests of Vermont and a tiny Polish village are among the settings for these 32 true stories by Rabbi Bob Alper. In “Thanks. I Needed That. ...,” Bob guides the reader to places as diverse as synagogues in Kentucky and London, a small plane flying over Oklahoma, a refusenik’s Moscow apartment, comedy clubs and even a convention of rabbis. Bob’s unique experiences, from leading large congregations to performing stand-up at Toronto’s “Muslimfest,” make for a wealth of engaging stories that touch people of all backgrounds with warmth, humor, and wisdom. This event is supported by Jewish Senior Services and is a Jewish Book Council Author. Registration and payment is required by Monday, January 27 Thursday, February 20 Celebrating Israel 65: “Israel Inside – How a Small Nation Makes a Big Difference” (38 minutes) and “Every Tuesday: A Portrait of the New Yorker Cartoonists” (22 minutes) 1 p.m. Sekach Building 6505 Sylvania Avenue “Israel Inside: How a Small Nation Makes a Big Difference” is a featurelength documentary that explores the positive characteristics of Israeli society from a humanistic, psychological and emotional perspective. This insightful and uplifting documentary sidesteps the usual conversation of politics, conflict and violence and tells the story of the Israeli people, whose resilience has propelled Israel to the forefront of world innovation and progress. Despite daily challenges ranging from limited resources to security needs, Israeli creativity and inventiveness help make the world a better place. Israel has made significant advancements in the fields of science, environment, medicine and technology, and has shared these developments with the rest of the world. The New Yorker is famous for its clever, absurdly off-kilter cartoons. Now you can go behind the scenes and see the drawing studios and Tuesday afternoon lunches with the select group of cartoonists who are forever seeking the perfect fusion of drawing and caption as they ponder inspiration and rejection. Directed by Rachel Loube. Registration is required by Thursday, February 13. Special Notice: Please note that our trips are open to all seniors and reservations and payment are due at the time of the request to hold your space. We will accept reservations on a first-come basis since space is limited. A waitlist will be formed as needed. No confirmations will be mailed; your credit card charge or cancelled check will serve as your confirmation. Please fill out an Emergency Contact Form if you will be traveling with us for the first time. For questions about a program, please contact René Rusgo at 419-724-0365 or rene@ JewishToledo.org or Mary Lou Whittaker at 419-531-2119 or [email protected]. Please note registration deadlines for all programs. To register for a program, please call 419-7240354 or email registration@ JewishToledo.org. 26 Mon Congregation B'nai Israel, Jewish Holidays Sun International Holocaust Remembrance Day 10:30am - Staff Meeting 27 Tue 28 Wed 29 5 Thu 30 6 Specialty Kinnus CINCINNATI 4 1 p m - SOAP @ Library 1 2 p m - JSS Luncheon 3 4 : 3 0 p m - Religious School 2 6:15pm - Kadima 1 0 : 3 0 a m - Staff Meeting @ Youth Lounge 9 : 3 0 a m - Service 7 p m - Spiel Rehersal 9 : 3 0 a m - Religious School 9 : 3 0 a m - World Wide Wrap Fri 31 1 Feb 2014 (Eastern Time) Sat Parsha Teruman Rabbi Miller here 9 : 3 0 a m - Shabbat Service 5 p m - Service 6 : 3 3 p m - Shabbat Ends Parsha Tetzaveh 8 9 : 3 0 a m - Shabbat Service 7 5 p m - Services 5 : 1 5 p m - Service 6 : 4 1 p m - Shabbat Ends 15 5 : 3 9 p m - Light Candles 14 Family Shabbat 13 SATO Dance 12 10 1 p m - SOAP @ Library Parsha Ki Tissa 11 9 1 0 : 3 0 a m - Staff Meeting @ Youth Lounge 5 p m - Services 9 : 3 0 a m - Shabbat Service 5 : 3 0 p m - Service 5 p m - Services 9 : 3 0 a m - Shabbat Service Parsha Vayakhel 6 : 5 0 p m - Shabbat Ends 5 : 5 7 p m - Light Candles 22 6 : 4 5 p m - Shabbat Luck 6 : 5 8 p m - Shabbat Ends 1 0 a m - Hayes Memorial United Methodist 5 : 3 0 p m - Service 21 4 : 3 0 p m - Religious School EXEC COMMITTEE Room CBI BOARD MTG Room 20 Specialty Kinnus CINCINNATI 9 : 3 0 a m - Religious School 6:15pm - Kadima 7 p m - Spiel Rehearsal Madison Smith Bat Mitzvah 1 Parsha Pekudei 28 5 p m - Services 27 1 p m - SOAP @ Library 9 : 3 0 a m - Shabbat Service 6 : 0 5 p m - Light Candles 7 p m - Spiel Rehearsal 6 : 1 5 p m - USY 4 : 3 0 p m - Religious School 26 4 : 3 0 p m - Religious School 19 5 : 4 8 p m - Light Candles 18 6 : 1 5 p m - USY 17 25 1 p m - SOAP @ Library 7 p m - Spiel Rehearsal 16 1 0 : 3 0 a m - Staff Meeting @ Youth Lounge 6 p m - Gabbai Training 24 Presidents' Day @ United States 1 0 : 3 0 a m - Staff Meeting @ Youth Lounge Office Closed 9 : 3 0 a m - Service 6:30pm @ Mediai 7:30pm @ Mediia 1 2 p m - Spiel Rehearsal 1 1 a m - Book Club 1 2 p m - Spiel Rehearsal SATO Dance 9 : 3 0 a m - Service 23 9 : 3 0 a m - Religious School Open House 9 : 3 0 a m - Service 1 2 p m - Spiel Rehearsal 1 2 p m - USY/Kadima CONGREGATION B’NAI ISRAEL STAFF Ivor Lichterman [email protected] Howard Rosenbaum Kim Brody Hazzan Minyan Leader CONGREGATION B’NAI ISRAEL BULLETIN 6525 Sylvania Ave Sylvania OH 43560 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Sylvania, OH Permit No. 42 Address Service Requested Religious School Principal [email protected] Stephen Lamb Youth Director [email protected] Caren Zaft Administrator [email protected] Rhoda Miller Community Outreach Coordinator [email protected] Lou Steingroot Bookkeeper [email protected] Fagie Benstein & Sharon Rappaport Sisterhood co-presidents David Zack Sam Zack Men’s Club President USY President EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Co-Presidents Meira Zucker & Michael Podolsky Vice Presidents Hope Davis, Ellen Federman, Michael Portnoy Secretary Alix Greenblatt Treasurer Bruce Post BOARD OF TRUSTEES Stuart Brody, David Friedes, Jan Katz, Jill Kripke, Marc Glasser, Arnold Remer, Howard Rosenberg, Jerry Russell, Debbie Spangenthal, Fran Weinblatt, www.cbitoledo.org SAVE THESE DATES Saturday, February 1, 2014 Saturday, February 1, 2014 February 6-9, 2014 Saturday, March 15, 2014 Monday, February 17, 2014 Friday, February 21, 2014 Monday, February 24, 2014 Tuesday, February 25, 2014 Sunday, March 2, 2014 Sunday, March 9, 2014 Sunday, March 16, 2014 Rabbi Miller returns to lead Shabbat Services Cantor Ivor Lichterman will be a Scholar-in-Residence at Bet Shalom Synagogue in Tucson, Arizona, and he will also present a concert that evening USY Kinnus in Cincinnati Megillah Reading Presidents’ Day - office will be closed 6:45 p.m. Shabbat-luck Dinner 6:00 p.m. Gabbai Training 11:00 a.m. Sisterhood Book Club Religious School Open House 9:30 a.m. Vashti’s Banquet 10:00 a.m. Hakuna Megillah 12:00 p.m. Purim Carnival 16