Happy Hanukkah! Let the celebration begin at sundown December 6, 2015.
The Jewish Journalof san antonio KISLEV – TEVET 5776 Published by The Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 PJ Library Goes to School
unifies San Antonio How can we WINTER BREAK FUN! Jewish preschools collectively Missing summer friends bring light and fun? Sign-up for a San Antonio’s three Jewish early childhood winter camp! centers the Barshop Jewish Community Center’s into the world Block and Dreeben School for Young Children, PAGE 26-27 in 2016? Gan Gani Preschool of Chabad Center for Jewish Life and Learning, and Heintz Preschool at Agudas Join Federation's Achim gathered on November 11 for a collaborative, campaign to serve enriching day of learning for their faculty. those in need See PJ LIBRARY, page 12 near and far. (l to r) Celina Geideshman, Heintz Preschool director; Lauren Abraham, Details on PJ Library San Antonio Coordinator; Lisa Litman, National PJ Library pages 5 & 7 Goes To School director; Rivkie Block, Gan Gani director; and Alissa WHAT’S HAPPENING As a community, we Levey Baugh JCC Block and Dreeben School director. are stronger together. See what everyone’s been up to! PAGE 18-19 Updated Chanukah Torahs rescued following on the River schedule the Holocaust on display The Chanukah on the River minimize the amount of walking This Hanukkah Cruise on Sunday, Dec. 13 between venues and will shorten Congregation Rodfei will leave from the Arneson the duration of the program. Sholom will celebrate the River Theatre landing at 1 p.m. This will allow families to make miracle of the small cruse NOT at 3 p.m. as previously it home at a decent hour for of oil discovered in the announced. Chanukah their own menorah lighting and ruins of the Temple, with MAKE IT A Wonderland will begin at Chanukah celebrations” said three Torahs rescued from MITZVAH MONTH 1:30 p.m. at Maverick Plaza Rabbi Levi Teldon, Program the ruins of the Holocaust. Volunteer opportunties in La Villita and go until 3:30 Director at Chabad. They will be displayed at the abound this month. p.m. The Menorah Lighting For more information synagogue Thursday, Dec. For over 75 years, Looking to get ceremony and concert will begin and reservations please involved? 10 through Sunday, Dec. 13. thousands of Torahs at 3:30 p.m. and end at 4:30 p.m. contact Chabad or visit www. The Torahs will give light to PAGE 34 “This new schedule will chanukahontheriver.com. our community. See TORAHS, page 37
12500 N. W. NON PROFIT WHAT’S INSIDE Military ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE Highway, #200 CALENDAR 4 SENIOR NEWS 27 San Antonio, PAID CANDLE LIGHTING 5 PERSPECTIVE 30 TX 78231 SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS IN THE COMMUNITY 16 ARTS & CULTURE 31 Change PERMIT NO. 17 WHAT’S HAPPENING 20 HANUKKAH 32 - 36 Service Requested Home- Requested Delivery By YOUTH 25 US & WORLD 38 Dec. 5, 2015 Also read the Journal online at: www.jfsatx.org PAGE TWO Honoring Jewish Lifestyles and Traditions... at Arden Courts, it‘s important to us too.
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PUBLISHED BY SUPPORTED BY The Jewish Federation of San Antonio Grants from the Helen Arronge 12500 N. W. Military Highway, #200 Fund, the Eilenberg Family San Antonio, TX 78231 Memorial Endowment Fund, the !RDEN #OURTS OF 3AN !NTONIO IS A WARM WELCOMING INTERFAITH COMMUNITY FOR ALL RESIDENTS AND VISITORS 4HE Charles Atkin Memorial Trust (210)302-6960 RELAXED ATMOSPHERE LEADS TO MANY FRIENDSHIPS AND ENCOURAGES REWARDING NEW OUTLOOKS ON EACH DAY Fund, the Freeman Education 7E INVITE YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONE TO JOIN US AT ANY OF OUR PROGRAMS TO DISCOVER HOW !RDEN #OURTS HONORS THE www.jfsatx.org Fund and the Jewish Federation Jewish lifestyle. Annual Campaign. Call 210.408.9100 or e-mail [email protected] RONIT SHERWIN, CEO for more information. RICHARD PLANTO, Board Chair LESLIE KOMET AUSBURN, Editor/Director of Marketing & Communication
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is a proud member of the Jewish Federations of North America. mean you’re too far to help. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS: The submission deadline for the JANUARY 2016 issue of the Jewish Journal is DECEMBER 11, 2015 at noon. All materials submitted after this date will be considered for the following issue. How to submit: Email submissions to [email protected] • Articles & Announcements - Email as word documents. Articles submitted for consideration are subject to editing. • Photos - Email high resolution images (300 dpi) in jpg attachments only. ADVERTISING: To place an advertisement or request ad rates, contact Sandy Leigh at (240) 498-8999 or [email protected]. Ad deadlines for JANUARY 2016 ISSUE: • Ad space reservations due no later than DECEMBER 11, 2015 noon; • Press ready ads due by DECEMBER 14, 2015. Please include a contact name and phone number with all submissions. The Jewish Journal is a free publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio, and is published in print and online 11 times a year as a public service to the community. Donations to offset production and mailing costs are always welcome.
JEWISH JOURNAL EDITORIAL POLICY When you support Magen David Adom, it’s like you’re sitting in the ambulance next to the driver, sharing in the mitzvah of saving lives. As Israelis face terror attacks and other The Jewish Journal of San Antonio is a monthly publication created and paid for by the Jewish Federation of San Antonio. The Journal's emergencies, MDA medics are counting on you to ensure they have the equipment and primary focus is creating awareness and engagement within the local training they need. Jewish community about activities, programs and issues with which As we celebrate Chanukah, please give the gift of life, and make your year-end the Jewish Federation is involved. tax-deductible donation today. As a service to the broader Jewish community, area synagogues and organizations are invited to submit content relevant to the Jewish community at large for publication consideration. AFMDA Midwest Region Items selected for publication are done so solely at the discretion of Cari Margulis Immerman, Director the Journal Editor and the Jewish Federation. Submissions may be 3175 Commercial Avenue, Suite 101, Northbrook, IL 60062 edited and/or re-written for content and length. Toll-Free 888.674.4871• [email protected] www.afmda.org We aim to fairly reflect the breadth and depth of activities and Jewish life taking place in the San Antonio Jewish community.
2 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL ב“ה
EXCLUSIVE PRE-GAME EVENT! l Spurs Coyote appearance l Menorah Lighting ’ l Exclusive ‘Chanukah @ the Spurs 2015 T-Shirt l Watch the Spurs’ pre-game shootaround l 5:30-6:30pm in the HEB Fanzone tickets from $35 @ www.spurschanukah.com (210) 764-0300, Enter promo code Spurs. For more information call Chabad @ Spurs’ rep Chanson Douglas @ (210) 444-5099, or visit www.ChabadSA.com/SpursNight. Presented by Chabad Center for Jewish Life & Learning in cooperation with our community synagogues & Jewish organizations.
THE JEWISH JOURNAL A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 3 CALENDAR OF EVENTS: December 2015 YOUR FEDERATION DOLLARS AT WORK December 1 • Scholar in Residence: December 9 • Alamo-Brandeis B’nai • Author Lecture: The Land • JCC: Hands on Rabbi Tokayer, Chabad • L’Chayim Club for B’rith Business Meeting, of Israel –The Real Story, Chanukah, The Campus, Center (Dec 4-5) Seniors, Rodfei, 11:30 a.m. 10:30 a.m. 7 p.m. 3:30 p.m. • First Friday Shabbat & • Lots of Latkes Dinner & • Chabad Chanukah on • Yud tes Kislev Dinner, Temple Beth-El, Program, Agudas Achim, the River & Chanukah December 19 Community Dinner, 5:30 p.m. 6 p.m. Wonderland, Arneson River • Family Shabbat, Temple Beth-El, 9 a.m. Chabad Center, 6 p.m. • Chabad Chanukah at the Theater, 1 p.m. • Informational Meeting for December 5 Pearl, 6 p.m. • JCC Dance Showcase, • Club Agudas Achim, Upcoming December 2016 • STARZ Presents 3 p.m. 7 p.m. Thoroughly Modern Millie, Trip to Israel, Temple Beth- December 10 • Jewish Family Services: • Young Couples Club of 7 p.m. El, 6:15p.m. • Jewish & Catholic Latke Event, The Campus, Agudas at Hacienda De Los • JFSA, “SUPER Hanukkah Luncheon, 4:30 p.m. Barrios, 7 p.m. December 6 11:30 a.m. SWEEPS” Phone-a-thon, • Nova Presents, • Erev Hanukkah December 21 7 p.m. • Hanukkah Party, Temple Cinderella Kids, • Hanukkah Party at • Winter J-Camp (Dec. 21- • Temple Beth-El Board Beth-El, 7 p.m. The Campus, 7 p.m. Rodfei, 6:30 p.m. 31 with no camp on Dec Meeting, 7 p.m. • Recovered Torahs on 25), 9:30 a.m. • Agudas Achim Hands on Display with Speaker December 15 December 2 Hanukkah, Vineyard-Whole Explanation, Rodfei • Congregation Agudas • Rodfei Winter Camp • JCC Board Meeting, The Foods, 12 p.m. Sholom, 7 p.m. Achim Sisterhood Games (Dec. 21 – 31) 9 a.m. Campus, 7:30 p.m. • Sisterhood Program, Day, 10 a.m. • GMJSS Board Meeting, • Rodfei Sholom Book Temple Beth-El, 12 p.m. December 12 The Campus, 7 p.m. Club, 7:30 p.m. • STARZ Presents • Nova Presents, Cinderella December 16 Thoroughly Modern Millie, Kids, 7 p.m. • Great Big San Antonio December 24 December 3 2 p.m. & 4:30 p.m. • Recovered Torahs on Challah Bake, Rodfei • PJ Pizza Pajama Party, • Agudas Achim Simcha Display, Speaker at Shabbat Sholom, All Day The Campus, 5:30 p.m. Social Club with Hazzan December 7 Services, Rodfei Sholom, • Family Movie Night & Lipton, 11:30 a.m. • Hanukkah (Dec 7 - 14) 11:15 a.m. December 17 Dinner, Agudas Achim, • Author Lecture: The • Agudas Hanukkah • Torah Academy of San 6 p.m. Return of the Jewish Nation Storytime with Rabbi Antonio Chanukah Party, December 13 to its Land, Rodfei Sholom, Abraham, Barnes & Noble, Rodfei Sholom, 6 p.m. • Recovered Torahs on December 25 12 p.m. 4:30 p.m. Display, Learn Their • Rodfei Annual Trip to the History at Rodfei Sholom, • Agudas Achim Moonlight Zoo, 10 a.m. • GMJSS Meet-Up at the December 8 All Day Supper Club, 7 p.m. McNay, 6 p.m. • Chabad/Gan Gani • Shabbat Dinner with Chanukah Dinner, Chabad • Cycle for Good, The • Campaign Closing, Chinese Food, Rodfei • Shower the Community Center, 5 p.m. Campus, 9 a.m. Jewish Federation of San Sholom, 6:30 p.m. with Love, JFSA Women’s Antonio, 7 p.m. Philanthropy Event, The • NCJW Trashy Book
Campus, 7 p.m. Club at the home of Cathy Pottorf, 6:30 p.m. • TBE30s40s, 7 p.m. • JFSA Board Meeting, The December 4 Campus, 7 p.m. • Temple Beth-El, Class • NCJW, Bye-Bye Rabbi at Retreat (Dec 4-6) the IBC, 7:30 p.m.
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4 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL YOUR FEDERATION DOLLARS AT WORK
CANDLE LIGHTING Friday, Dec 4, 2015 Light Candles at: 5:17 P.M. Make a difference in Shabbat, Dec 5, 2015 Shabbat Ends: 6:13 P.M. Friday, Dec 11, 2015 Light Candles at: 5:18 P.M. Shabbat Ends: 6:15 P.M. the world around you Shabbat, Dec 12, 2015 Friday, Dec 18, 2015 Light Candles at: 5:20 P.M. I am not a fan of the month Letter from Washington, DC. There Shabbat, Dec 19, 2015 Shabbat Ends: 6:17 P.M. of December. I do not care our CEO were many fantastic speakers for the shorter days and the – David Gregory, Debra Friday, Dec 25, 2015 Light Candles at: 5:23 P.M. longer nights, nor do I like RONIT Messing and Prime Minister SHERWIN Shabbat, Dec 26, 2015 Shabbat Ends: 6:21 P.M. the cold of winter (growing Benjamin Netanyahu, to Friday, Jan 1, 2016 Light Candles at: 5:28 P.M. up in Cleveland I know what name a few. While I was Shabbat, Jan 2, 2016 Shabbat Ends: 6:25 P.M. that can really mean). But moved to tears by many of what I most dislike about for display are all you need these famous individuals December is the focus on to complete the mitzvah of of our Jewish family, I December 27 “things” and the receiving the holiday. Adding some was particularly inspired • Jewish War Veterans IN LOVING of material objects. We live dreidels, chocolate gelt and by the remarks of Harold Post 753 Business Meeting MEMORY in a culture of consumption, a sack of potatoes for latkes Gernsbacher. & Election, The Campus, and there is no month of the seem minimalist relative Harold is the new 9:30 a.m. Helene Fitell year that better embodies this to the overabundance of National Campaign Chair culture of consumption that accessories and tchachkes for the Jewish Federation • Sisterhood Shabbat Trudy Harris the month of December. around the rest of our city movement, which is a Dinner, Honoring the Fortunately, we also live this month. Hanukkah is significant leadership Veterans, Agudas Achim, Edwin Henkin our lives by the Hebrew about a great miracle of position with great 6:15 p.m. calendar, and December survival and perseverance responsibility. Harold is Audrey Sloter typically corresponds and our celebration of pride not just a macher, as my January 1 with Kislev. While it is as a people of strength. grandfather would say, he • New Years Day still dark and cold, the Last month, I attended is also a mentsch. Harold • First Friday Family • Temple Beth-El Board month of Kislev brings us the Jewish Federations of impressed me not by the Shabbat & Dinner, Temple Meeting, 7 p.m. the lights of Hanukkah and North America (JFNA) fact that he contributes Beth-El, 5:30 p.m. the warmth of family (and General Assembly. With a significant amount of January 7 latkes and sufganiyot). I 3,000 Jewish leaders, financial resources to his January 5 • AIPAC Club Event, also love the simplicity of professionals and community local Jewish Federation • Sisterhood Book Review, 6:30 p.m. the Hanukkah rituals. A volunteers I learned and was Agudas Achim, 10 a.m. hanukkiah and a window inspired over three days in See LETTER, page 7
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THE JEWISH JOURNAL A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 5
3x3.indd 1 2/16/15 2:28 PM THIS HANUKKAH Do good EVERYWHERE. From ANYWHERE.
It’s Hanukkah! Chag Sameach! You’re in the kitchen frying up latkes. Lighting the menorah. Giving out gifts. Good things you do every year for your family.
But while you’re doing them, why not do good things for your global family as well? Like nurturing and strengthening Jewish life. Helping the vulnerable. Inspiring the young. And safeguarding our people.
This Hanukkah, change Jewish lives for the better Everywhere. — in San Antonio, Israel and 60 countries around the world. You can do it from ANYWHERE— even your own kitchen.
Your gift to the Federation’s 2015 Annual Community Campaign enables us to accomplish all this and more. You are an integral part of all we do.
Visit us at www.jfsatx.org to donate and make a difference today.
Jonathan Gurwitz, Chair, 2015 Annual Campaign Richard Planto, Chair, Board of Directors
STRONGER www.jfstax.org ▪ [email protected] TOGETHER 210-302-6960
6 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL YOUR FEDERATION DOLLARS AT WORK Stronger together as Campaign Message of Condolences and Support for the People of France giving increases The miracle of Hanukkah The Jewish Community of San Antonio is saddened and outraged by the terrorists Campaign is that a small amount of oil attacks in Paris this past weekend. We wish to extend condolences to the people of Commentary sufficient for only a single France, and we stand in solidarity with France in their efforts to fight against such day lasted eight full days, JONATHAN terrorism and murder of innocent lives. even as the oil diminished. GURWITZ, Annual Yet Hillel instructed that Please see below the letter to the leadership of the French Jewish community on Campaign Chair the Hanukkah menorah behalf of the Jewish Federations of North America. should be lit in ascending
order, with one candle “golden ladder” ascends L’shalom, on the first day growing from the person who gives to eight rather than eight but does so grudgingly, to Richard Planto, Chair of the Board of Directors decreasing to one. Among the highest level of one Ronit Sherwin, CEO the explanations offered who “strengthens the hands by the Talmud is that we of an Israelite who faces should strive to increase poverty, giving him a gift our holiness, or to perform or a loan, entering into a November 16, 2015 even greater mitzvot, business partnership with including bringing light to him, or giving him a job M. Roger Cukierman, President, CRIF the world. in order to strengthen his M. Joel Mergi, President, Consistoire Just as there are eight hand and to prevent him M. Ariel Goldmann, President, FSJU ascending Hanukkah from becoming an object of
candles, Maimonides tzedakah.” Dear Friends, taught that there are eight Just as the first candle
levels of the mitzvah of We are writing to you on behalf of Jewish Federations across North America to tzedakah. Maimonides’ See CAMPAIGN, page 12 express our solidarity and concern, to you and the entire French Jewish community over the horrific attacks that took place in Paris over Shabbat.
LETTER While it does not seem that the attacks specifically targeted the Jewish community, continued from page 5 we are well aware of how these outrageous acts of terror have shaken the people of These are our Jewish values France, and how vulnerable the Jewish community is also feeling. of Dallas, but because that serve as our foundation Harold describes himself and motivate our actions. Of course, free people across the globe stand shoulder to shoulder with all of as a “community worker,” Like Harold Gernsbacher, I France today. But at this time, you should also know that millions of Jewish people a Fort Worth boy from too feel fuller when I give throughout North America, and indeed around the world, are thinking of the French modest beginnings. Harold of myself, my time and my Jewish community and are standing by your side, sending messages of unity and stated, “The more I have, resources, and I know that support. the more I give. And the by doing so, I can make a more I give, the more I difference in the world. We are deeply troubled by the unsettling climate across all of Europe and when have.” This month let’s not be innocent people are targeted as occurred last Friday, the pain is felt by us all. Giving. Tzedakah - consumed by receiving. Let’s focus on giving to Hernandezjustice. Gemulut CPA / chasadim2x1 units (2 units) – acts of lovingkindness. make a difference. Please convey our support to the entire Jewish community and indeed to all the Jewish Journal - January 2010 - v.1 people of France.
Nos coeurs sont unis avec la communauté juive de France.
Sincerely,
Richard V. Sandler Susan K. Stern Jerry Silverman Chair, Board of Trustees Vice Chair, Board of Trustees President & CEO
THE JEWISH JOURNAL A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 7 YOUR FEDERATION DOLLARS AT WORK The role of truth in Holocaust history The importance of extermination plans, history has to be very than expel them, much more CRC accuracy in Holocaust according to Michael Sells, carefully documented and data would be needed to Commentary Historiography recently professor of Islamic History based on fact, especially in prove a more dominant role and Literature and Professor the face of the continuing of the Mufti in this aspect emerged in statements by JUDY the Israeli Prime Minister LACKRITZ of Comparative Literature at onslaught of Holocaust of Nazism. Given the Nazis’ Benjamin Netanyahu the University of Chicago, denial. Harry Mazal, who belief in the superiority regarding the role of there is not definitive lived his last years in San of the Aryans, it is hard Hajj Muhammad Amin he had to flee to Lebanon in evidence that he was actually Antonio devoting himself to conceive that the Mufti Al-Husseini. Netanyahu 1937 to escape the British close to Adolf Eichmann, to the Holocaust History could have gained such referred to Al-Husseini as authorities. In November of that he made multiple visits Project and combating prominence in their circles. having a prominent role in 1941 he ended up in Berlin to the concentration camps, Holocaust denial, always It is more likely that he was the extermination of the Jews where he proposed to bring or that he had influence stressed that absolute convenient and useful for under the Nazi regime. The about Arab and Muslim over the plans for the Final accuracy should be their military goals. Prime Minister later backed support for the Axis powers Solution of the Jews. demanded in discussing the Holocaust history has been away from the comment in return for recognition of The concern is that Holocaust so that the deniers extensive in the past fifty placing it in a wider context, his leadership in the Arab placing the Mufti in a would never have any kind years. As Prime Minister stating that he did not intend World. It should be noted more prominent role in the of foothold on the historical Netanyahu said in his to absolve Hitler. that he represented neither genocide of the Jews can landscape. address at the GA last month, Al Husseini became the a political entity nor a clear be a misuse of Holocaust Getting to the truth of “ The only way to fight lies Mufti of Jerusalem under constituency. history for political purposes the story must always be a is to tell the truth.” It is the British Mandate prior Though it is well in the Israeli Arab conflict. priority. Though some have crucial that accuracy is kept to World War II. When documented that the Mufti What emerges as claimed that the Mufti had a at the forefront. Therefore he became a leader of the was a fervent supporter paramount in the story vital role in the decision to it is crucial that accuracy be Arab revolt in the 1930’s of the Nazis and their therefore is that Holocaust exterminate the Jews rather our continual quest.
Interfaith Hanukkah celebration – December 10 Members of the San Dec. 10 at 11:30 a.m. The Fernando Cathedral are the Antonio-area Roman event will be held at San co-sponsors. Catholic and Jewish Fernando Cathedral Hall, For further information, communities will gather 231 West Commerce. call San Fernando for an interfaith Hanukkah The Jewish Federation Cathedral, (210) 227-1297. celebration on Thursday, of San Antonio and San
8 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL YOUR FEDERATION DOLLARS AT WORK JNetSA Rabbi Round Robin in the Dominion
Rabbi Panel Discussion - Jacob Kluger-J Net Chair as Moderator, Rabbi Ari Weingarten, Rabbi Jeffrey Abraham, Rabbi Marina Yergin, Rabbi David Komerofsky, and Rabbi Avraham Scheinberg JNetSA attendees listen to the Rabbi panel Roberto Kenigstein and Gloria Kenigstein from Image Homes Each of the Rabbis Image Homes for allowing answered questions asked by JNetSA to use their beautiful JNetSA Chair, Jacob Kluger, property for the JNetSA that many may have been event,” said Federation’s afraid to ask. Some of these Suzie Kariv. “It truly was a questions included: Why did wonderful evening of R & R Victor’s Jaguar / 2x3 units (6 units) you become a Rabbi? What (Rabbis and Real Estate).” Jewish Journal - January 2010 - v.1 are the 3 key ingredients JNetSA holds monthly to a successful day of rest? Jewish networking events On Thursday, Nov. 5, And What’s your definition featuring various inspiring nearly 50 young adults of prayer? The event was community and business gathered for JNetSA’s held at the award-winning leaders. By liking the Rabbi Round Robin event Dominion Image home, JNetSA Facebook page, one with with guests Rabbi which was showcased in can learn about upcoming Jeffrey Abraham, Rabbi the San Antonio Parade of events. The full schedule of David Komerofsky, Rabbi Homes. JNetSADough events/ 1x2 canunits be found Avraham Scheinberg, Rabbi “Many thanks to Roberto on(2 http://www.units) jnetsa.com. Ari Weingarten, and Rabbi and Gloria Kenigstein from Jewish Journal - MarinaDr. Garry Yergin. Gossen / 2x2 units (4 units) Jewish Journal - August 15 January 2010 - v.1
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THE JEWISH JOURNAL A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 9 (l to r) Elisa Reinsmith and Jodi Starr
10 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL YOUR FEDERATION DOLLARS AT WORK Jewish Federation hosts best-selling Israeli author
Left to right: Susan Butler, Iris Weissburg, Diana Bletter, Marlene Spirt,and Mindi Silver-Weiss. Members of National Council of Jewish During her visit to Federation in November, Western Galilee author Diana Bletter shared many stories and Women’s Trashy Book club visited with Bletter during her reading in philosophies about sisterhood with sisterhood representatives from area synagogues and Hadassah in San the Beldon Library. Antonio. By Lauren Abraham Bletter enjoyed lunch Bletter discussed the Bletter shared The Jewish Federation of with two different sets of inspiration for her novel, details about the San Antonio hosted selling sisterhood leaders from each A Remarkable Kindness, Partnership2gether Western Galilee author, Diana Bletter of the of the area synagogues, she which traces the lives of four region and Western Gallilee region rejuvenated the Israel and fictional American Jewish anecdotes from her in Israel for a number of Overseas Committee during women who are part of a life in Israel. community events in early a special dinner at the home unique Jewish tradition in their November. Although Bletter of committee co-chairman coastal village in Northern was only in San Antonio for David Komet. She was also Israel. In preparing and two and a half days, she met able to share her beautiful dressing women for burial, the with many groups in intimate writing and philosophies women grow in friendship settings, and she was able with dozens of attendees at and marriages, learn to accept to touch the heart and soul two of her book readings in death, and come to appreciate ofEl our Jarro San Antoniode Arturo Jewish / 2x2 unitsthe Beldon(4 units) Library on the the sorrows and wonders of community. Jewish campus. life. Jewish Journal - January 2010 - v.1 Bletter explained her philosophy, and made the divide, yet we all have a soul touch.” claim that we should always that binds us. Ritual is part Bletter visited San Antonio look to our spirituality over of the word spiritual, and we as part of her 2015 American religion. “Religion can can all agree on it and stay in bookJohn Troytour. / 1x1 units (1 unit) Jewish Journal - December 2014
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THE JEWISH JOURNAL A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 11 FROM THE COVER
PJ LIBRARY Faculty of the continued from page 1 JCC Block and Dreeben The group began at Chabad for School for breakfast and greetings from Rabbi Young Children Chaim Block, and for icebreakers, a (pictured) along keynote address and text study with with staff from PJ Library Goes to School national the Heintz director Lisa Litman who visited Preschool and from Pennsylvania. The group of Gan Gani recently 70 teachers visited the classrooms of gathered for PJ Library Goes to Gan Gani Preschool, and then moved School. to Congregation Agudas Achim where they visited the sanctuary and Heintz Preschool classrooms. They were greeted by Rabbis Jeffrey Abraham and Ariel Greenberg, and Hazzan Jeremy Lipton and learned new songs and stories to take back to their respective schools. books can help their students connect Federation told them, “Clearly define program, Jewish early After lunch, the group headed with Jewish values on a deeper level. the idea of collaboration.” childhood educators in to the Jewish Campus where they PJ Library’s Litman ran this session The group has since opened a San Antonio will receive PJ Library were greeted by Barshop JCC CEO using her educational tools and PJ Facebook forum to continue sharing books and curriculum each month to Saul Levenshus, and took part in an Library Goes to School curriculum. ideas and, as Alissa Levey Baugh, utilize and share in their classrooms. orientation with PJ Library materials. The teachers were able to connect Director of the Block and Dreeben San Antonio will once again have During their visit to the JCC’s with their own colleagues and those School for Young Children says, the pleasure of having Lisa Litman Block and Dreeben School, the from other schools, and expand “We have only begun to scratch the return and do another follow up teachers split into groups according from their comfort zone to see new surface!” workshop in the Spring. This is a way to the age levels they teach to classrooms, eat authentic Israeli food As the 19th community around for families to connect to Judaism explore Hanukkah books, and then provided by Aroma Grill, and, as the country to become a member in a deeper way, and it starts in the brainstormed and planned how the Ronit Sherwin, CEO of the Jewish of the PJ Library Goes to School classrooms.
The Heintz Preschool staff
PJ LIBRARY SPOTLIGHTS ISRAEL PJ Library and children’s literature illustrator, Joni Rothenberg, and her cousin, Yael Buxbaum, (both from our Partnership2gether region in America and Israel) held a special PJ Library story reading of Rothenberg’s illustrated books. The theme of her visit was the Mezuzah, the sign Jews put on their home. In the story the rabbis argue about the placement of the Mezuzah (upright or down flat). Rothenberg and Buxbaum showed the children how to make a Mezuzah out of Popsicle sticks and sticky tape with a prayer inside. During this process, the PJ Library children got to write their own prayers and aspirations for the world. The Gan Gani Preschool staff
12 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL YOUR JEWISH COMMUNITY JEWISH FEDERATION OF SAN ANTONIO COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS Main Number: (210) 302-6960 / Holocaust Memorial Museum: (210) 302-6807 / Beldon Library: (210) 302-6805 Barshop Jewish Community Center Ronit Sherwin, Chief Executive Officer Sandy Leigh, Advertising Director 12500 NW Military Highway, Suite 275, San Antonio, TX 78231 [email protected] / (210) 302-6961 The Jewish Journal Phone: (210) 302-6820 Fax: (210) 408-2341 [email protected] Executive Director: Saul F. Levenshus Email: [email protected] Lauren Abraham, Special Programs Coordinator President: Stephen J. Kramer Website: www.jccsanantonio.org A birth through life organization, JCC programs include a nationally- [email protected] Nathan Ratner, Coordinator San Antonio Jewish Coalition for Literacy accredited nursery school, after school care and programs, summer Tiffany Bockerstette, Chief Financial Officer [email protected] camp programs, programming for adults and senior adults, plus [email protected] cultural, educational and recreational programs open to the community. Danielle Roberts, Campaign Administrator Linda Brown, Campaign Administrator [email protected] Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Campus [email protected] of the San Antonio Jewish Community Kristin Rodriguez, Education Associate, 12500 NW Military Hwy, Suite 100, San Antonio Texas 78231 Alan Carney, Accounting Manager Holocaust Memorial Museum Phone: (210) 302-6801 Fax: (210) 408-2322 [email protected] [email protected] Director of Operations: Mike Griffin President: Alice Viroslav Website: www.thecampustx.org Matthew Faulkner, Programs Manager, Juana Rubalcava, Education Director Holocaust Memorial Museum The Campus features a variety of spaces available to rent for small or Holocaust Memorial Museum large events. [email protected] [email protected] Golden Manor Jewish Senior Services Susan Avitan Kariv, Chief Development Officer Julie Schack, 12500 N.W. Military Hwy. Suite 260, San Antonio, TX 78231 [email protected] DIrector of Women’s Philanthropy [email protected] Phone: (210) 302-6946 Website: http://www.goldenmanor.net Leslie Komet Ausburn, Executive Director: Daniel L. Laser President: Alice R. Troy Marketing/Editor The Jewish Journal Caitlyn Strayer, Office Manager Golden Manor Jewish Senior Services (GMJSS) works to enhance the [email protected] lives of Jewish seniors in the San Antonio Area by providing Lynn Waghalter, Librarian Beldon Library transportation and direct programing and through partnerships with Judy Lackritz, [email protected] other organizations for programs that benefit San Antonio area Jewish Community Relations Director and seniors. Director Holocaust Memorial Museum [email protected] Hebrew Free Loan Association of San Antonio P.O. Box 780264 San Antonio, TX 78278 Phone: (210) 736-4352 Non-profit organization offering interest-free loans to members of the SAN ANTONIO CONGREGATIONS San Antonio Jewish community in need of temporary assistance Congregation Agudas Achim (Conservative) Jewish Community of the Hill Country Jewish Family Service 16550 Huebner Road, 78248 Kerrville, Texas 12500 NW Military Highway, Suite 250, San Antonio, TX 78231 Phone: (210) 479-0307 Fax: (210) 479-0295 For information: (830) 331-8941 Phone: (210) 302-6920 Fax: (210) 302-6952 website: www.agudas-achim.org Executive Director: M. H. Levine President: Marion Bernstein Rabbi Jeffrey Abraham, Senior Rabbi Temple Chai (Reform) Jewish Family Service (JFS) offers a wide range of professional Hazzan Jeremy Lipton 2121 Lockhill-Selma counseling, social services, advocacy for victims of crime, and Rabbi Ariel Greenberg, Director of San Antonio, TX 78213 services for seniors including senior living and care options. Congregational Learning Phone: (210) 340-2090 National Council Of Jewish Women (NCJW) website: www.templechaisa.org Congregation Beth Am (Reconstructionist) Website: www.ncjwsa.org Rabbi David Komerofsky 7150 IH 10 West, 78213 For Membership Information: Cathy Pottorf - [email protected] Phone: (210) 492-2173 Fax: (210) 342-8935 Chabad Lubavitch of South Texas NCJW is a grassroots organization that advocates for women, children website: www.bethamsatx.org and family issues both locally and nationally. Lay Leader Marion Bernstein 14535 Blanco Rd., 78216 Phone: (210) 492-1085 Fax: (210) 493-9460 Hillel San Antonio Congregation Rodfei Sholom website: www.chabadsa.com Website: www.sahillel.org Phone: (210) 201-Jews (5397) (Orthodox) Rabbi Chaim Block Contact: Alan Yancelson Email: [email protected] 3003 Sholom Dr., 78230 Rabbi Yossi Marrus San Antonio Hillel serves college students throughout the San Antonio area. Phone: (210) 493-3557 Fax: (210) 492-0629 Rabbi Levi Teldon E-Mail address: [email protected] After School Judaics (JAS @ The J) Website: www.rodfeisholom.org Congregation Israel of San Antonio 12500 NW Military Hwy., 78231 / Phone: (210) 302-6969 Rabbi Aryeh Scheinberg (Conservative, Covenantal Gan Gani Preschool Rabbi Avraham Scheinberg Judaism in Prayer and Practice) 14535 Blanco Rd. 78216 / Phone: (210) 764-0300 Temple Beth-El (Reform) Office & Mailings: 211 Belknap Place, 78212 16320 Huebner Road at St. Andrew Heintz Preschool Phone: (210) 733-9135 Fax: (210) 737-8946 San Antonio, Texas, 78248 16550 Huebner Rd. 78248 / Phone: (210) 479-0429 E-mail address: [email protected] website: www.congregationisraelsatx.org JCC Block & Dreeben School for Young Children Website:www.beth-elsa.org All Faiths Chapel: 12500 NW Military Hwy., 78231 / Phone: (210) 302-6846 Rabbi Mara Nathan, Senior Rabbi 5000 Fawn Meadow Drive at Floyd Curl Rabbi Marina Yergin San Antonio, Texas 78240 Shmuel Bass Torah Academy Rabbi Samuel M. Stahl, Emeritus Phone: (210) 387-2436 3003 Sholom Drive, Suite #200, 78230 / Phone: (210) 607-7261 Cantor Julie Berlin Hazzan David Silverstein, JD,
THE JEWISH JOURNAL A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 13 YOUR FEDERATION DOLLARS AT WORK
CAMPAIGN Why after years of continued from page 7 diminishing campaigns would we set such an of Hanukkah adds light to aggressive, increased goal the world, even the donation for 2015? The first answer, made grudgingly serves a of course, is that it is the worthy purpose. Yet, as “Jewish thing to do.” From Hillel taught, we should Hillel to Maimonides, our always strive to increase our tradition instructs us to good deeds. increase our efforts. The Last year, our Jewish second answer is that we take Federation Annual Campaign seriously the concept of “Kol increased on two levels. We Yisrael arevim zeh bazeh,” (l to r) William increased the number of our sacred responsibility Daroff and Steve volunteers who participated Butler to the Jewish community in the campaign, and we everywhere. increased the number of With the dedication of our individuals who made Federation staff, the work donations to the campaign. JFNA William Daroff of our campaign volunteers With that, however, our and the continued support of 2014 campaign raised generous donors, we stand slightly less than the prior details advocacy efforts prepared to increase our year, continuing a trend that 2015 Annual Campaign and William Daroff, Senior Vice President of stretches back to 2008. support the critical services Public Policy & Director of the Washington We have unmet needs in provided by our Jewish Office of the Jewish Federations of North our community and we are agencies, both here in San America, recently spoke at a reception at determined to turning around Antonio and abroad. the home of Barbara and Stanley Spigel, the trend. We are committed If you have already made educating the community about the role to raising additional dollars a commitment to the 2015 that JFNA plays in public policy on behalf with everyone’s help we will Annual Campaign, we thank of the Jewish community. Daroff spoke do so. We therefore have set you. As the year draws to about how JFNA’s Washington office works a community goal of raising an end and tax implications to bring the voice of Jewish Federations $1,540,000 so that we may become considerations, to Capitol Hill and the White House, support the growing needs we hope you will – as advocating for life-saving and humanitarian in our community. This appropriate – explore assistance in the United States and 70 other represents a 5% increase increasing your commitment. countries around the world. from our previous year’s If you have not yet made a Daroff leads the advocacy efforts on key achievement. With this (l to r) Rabbi Aryeh Scheinberg and Stanley Spigel commitment, there is still domestic policy issues, principally on health increase we can continue time to fulfill the mitzvah and human services, as well as homeland our commitment to Jewish of tzedakah, increasing security programs. Daroff, who is a key communities, and the fight to combat states education, programs for the the scope of services of player in foreign policy circles, spoke about promoting terror. elderly, Israel experiences, our Jewish institutions and the efforts of his office to advise policy- For more information about the holiday celebrations, young strengthening our community makers and elected officials on concerns Washington office and the key Public Policy adult networking, PJ Library, for generations to come. related to the US-Israel relationship, the Priorities, visit http://jewishfederations.org/ safety net services for those Thank you. Middle East conflicts, vulnerable Jewish about-jfna/washington-office. in need, advocacy for Jewish We are Jewish San Antonio causes and Israel on Capitol (l to r) Susan and we are STRONGER Hill, trauma services for Jacobson, Brian Feld, TOGETHER. and Laura Ehrenberg- victims of terror, and support Chesler forHadassah Jews worldwide. / 2x1 units (2 units) Jewish Journal - January 2015
Who will say Kaddish? Hadassah will. Every year. Forever. For more information, visit www.hadassah.org/yahrzeit, call 877.212.3321 or email [email protected].
14 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL YOUR FEDERATION DOLLARS AT WORK
(l to r) 2015 Pomegranates: Julie Schack, Marlene Spirt, Sheila Schwartzman M.D., Ilene Franco- Pomegranate Co-Chair, Michele Vizurraga, Elisa Reinsmith. Other new Pomegranates (l to r) Diane Fisher, Marlene Spirt and Leslie Tramer not pictured: Lisa Menick, Leslie Byrd, Barbara Schnitzler Powell and Bobbie Ravicz. Pomegranate Demi Dinner a big success
This year’s annual Demi Dinner honoring the women of the Jewish Federation’s Pomegranate Society gathered on Wednesday, Oct. 14 for an evening filled with good company and an inspiring message. Co-chairs Ilene Franco, Simone Kboudi and Lauren Stanley along with their host committee worked tirelessly (l to r) Pomegranate Co-Chair- Ilene Franco, Ronit Sherwin CEO, Lauren Stanley- to plan a wonderful event. The dinner Board member was held at the Grill at Leon Springs where guests enjoyed a blackened redfish dish accompanied by a specially selected wine from the Western Galilee in Israel. Guest speakers for the evening were collaborative artists Joani Rothenberg and her cousin Yael Buxbaum who painted the Tree of Life mosaic piece, Pomegranate Mosaic which hangs in the new women’s health wing at the Western Galilee Medical Pomegranate painting from Joani and Center in Nahariya, Israel. Yael that will be completed and remain Created in three panels, the finished in our community. piece constitutes the collaboration of The Pomegranate Society is open hundreds of staff, patients, visitors to all women who make a minimum and volunteers to the hospital as well gift of $1800 to the annual campaign. as local community partners from the Federation honored 9 new Pomegranate Central Area Consortium, of which San women this year. Antonio is a partner city. Guests enjoyed their own artistic (l to r) Elisa Reinsmith and Jodi Starr collaboration as they tiled a
THE JEWISH JOURNAL A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 15 IN THE COMMUNITY December 25: What’s a Jew to do? Congregation Rodfei Sholom has congregation will be hosting the a great turnout at the zoo. Everybody ‘This year is also Shabbat so it will created two memorable events for the 2nd annual ZooMas Day at the San brought lunch and we all had a great be a new experience. I guarantee no Jewish community on December 25, a Antonio Zoo. time together,” said Rabbi Avraham Sesame Gefilte Fish!” said Scheinberg. day where most businesses are closed “It seemed like everything was Scheinberg. Call the office for more details and in recognition of Christmas. closed and Jews had nothing to do Also for the second year, Rodfei will to make reservations at (210) 493- During the daytime, the and nowhere to go. Last year we had host a Chinese dinner on December 25. 3557 or email [email protected]. Great Hadassah’s Hanukkah gift New Healing Those who would like to receive a one-year gift membership to Hadassah big San have only one month left to do so. The special gift membership is available Service at to any woman over the age of 18 who has not been a member of Hadassah Antonio previously. The offer expires on December 31, 2015. Agudas Achim Anyone who would like to take advantage of the free membership may contact any life member of Hadassah, who will be able to confer this Saturday, Dec. 20 at 8:30 a.m. Agudas Challah Hanukkah gift. Or the prospective member should call Kathy O’Neill at Achim will be hosting its monthly Healing (210) 823-8603. Service, offering participants the space to Bake Hadassah is celebrating Hanukkah early in San Antonio with a holiday recenter, regroup, and revive themselves supper on Wednesday, Dec. 1 at 7 p.m. at the home of Annette Goldberg. after a busy week with the support of the Roll up your sleeves Rabbi David Komerofsky of Temple Chai and Hillel will be the guest community. The Healing Service will be led and join other women and speaker. Please contact Annette Goldberg as soon as possible at (210) 860- by Rabbi Ariel Greenberg. All are invited to children from San Antonio 8536 if you plan to attend. join this rejuvenating celebration of Shabbat. to participate together in a monumental challah bake on Wednesday, Dec. 16 at Rodfei Sholom. Everybody will make their own dough, taking the Biblically commanded Challah portion and saying the beautiful prayer together. The event will be lead by Hudy Abrams of Dallas, Texas. She is the co-director of the Jewish Learning Center of Dallas and a world renowned Jewish teacher and leader. She will be delivering words of Jewish inspiration and growth during the event. For more details and to reserve your spot email sachallahbake@gmail. Greencom. Cuisine / 1x1 units (1 unit) Jewish Journal - Jan 2014
KOSHER
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16 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL IN THE COMMUNITY Young Couples Club of Agudas December program Rabbi Stahl to speak Agudas Achim’s Young Couples Program Reservations are made through Agudas will be meeting at Napa Flats on Saturday, Achim at [email protected] or call at Temple Chai Dec. 19, 2015 at 7 p.m. This program is (210) 479-0307. Deadline for reservations is open to all young couples in our community. Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2015. on December 4 Rabbi Samuel M. Stahl, unparalleled and he stands Emeritus Rabbi of its sister out as an exemplary figure in PJ Library and the Barshop JCC invite you to... congregation, Temple Beth- the Reform Movement.” El, will be the guest speaker Before retiring in 2002, at Temple Chai’s Friday, Dec. Rabbi Stahl served as 4 Shabbat service, held at Senior Rabbi at Temple 2121 Lockhill Selma (corner Beth-El for 26 years. He of NW Military Hwy). had previously served as Rabbi Stahl’s timely topic is Rabbi at Cong. B’nai Israel A Special Event Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, and in Galveston and was a Christmas. Services begin at chaplain in the United States 6:45 p.m. and the community Army. He is the author of Wear your PJs & come ready to eat pizza for is invited to attend. Making the Timeless Timely: “Rabbi Stahl has been Thoughts and Reflections my mentor for more than of a Contemporary Reform 20 years, dating to my time Rabbi, published in 1993. Drummin’ in the New Year in rabbinical school,” said For more information, Temple Chai’s Rabbi David please call Temple Chai at Thursday, December 24th @ 5:30 PM Komerofsky. “His intellect, (210) 340-2090 or visit www. warmth, and memory are templechaisa.org. The Holzman Auditorium on the Campus of the San Antonio Jewish Community Agudas Achim Movie Club p resents Star Wars and Chinese Food All are invited to join the Agudas Achim Movie Club for a special family event on Thursday, Dec. 24, 2015. The club will be showing a private screening of Star Wars: The Force Awakens at Santikos Embassy Theater beginning at 3 Stories, special crafts, new friends. p.m. All tickets must be purchased in advance and seating is limited. Reserved seating is $25/adult and $13/child (under 13). General seating is $15/adult and $10/child (under 13). All Fun and surprises in store! tickets include a kid’s popcorn and 16oz. drink. The movie will be followed by a no-host dinner at Wah Kee @PJLibrarySanAntonio Chinese Restaurant (please confirm you are joining for dinner when booking your movie ticket). RSVP to Agudas Achim at (210) 479-0307 or [email protected] event is co- [email protected] Mainsponsored Street by Propertiesthe Agudas Achim / 2x1 Men’sunits (2Club. units) Jewish Journal - Sept. 2014
RSVP (210) 302-6960
PJ Library is a program of the Jewish Federation of LISTYOUR HOUSE San Antonio, Nathalie and Gladys Dalkowitz Charitable MAIN STREET PROPERTIES Trust and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation MICHAEL LITOFSKY • MELODY YANCELSON • MARTIN LITOFSKY
(210) 344-2200
THE JEWISH JOURNAL A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 17 IN THE COMMUNITY
Journey of the Soul classes at Chabad
Journey of the Soul, a new 6-session accredited course presented by the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute (JLI) at the Chabad Center for Jewish Life & Learning, launched in San Antonio last month with over 60 students attending between both classes. The course addresses the many questions related to the Jewish perspective on life, death, and what lies beyond. Learn more at www.myJLI. com.
Deep discussions at the JLI course Journey of the Soul, led by Rabbi Levi Teldon at the Chabad Center for Jewish Life & Learning. Mussar: Jewish spirituality for better living Frame every image with care. Mussar learning and to the study and practice of practice continues at Temple Mussar. The middot covered Beth-El beginning January 24, in A Season of Mussar I are 2016. Mussar is a thousand- Humility (Anavah), Anger year-old Jewish system for (Ka’as), Gratitude (Hakarat personal growth. It is aimed Ha’tov), Trust (Bitahon), at elevating one’s character, or Honor (Kavod), and Alacrity what Mussar calls soul traits (Zerizut). (middot). Practices include A Season of Mussar I will meditation, chanting, studying be led by Barry Menick. He Mussar texts, engaging in has been a student of Mussar Mussar discussions, and since attending a Mussar keeping a daily journal on Institute Kallah in 2007. Barry the middot (soul traits) that has completed the Everyday practitioners discover to be Holiness and Path of the Soul obstacles in their lives. courses online through The Though Mussar practice is Institute and has graduated often viewed in ethical terms, from the Manchim program it is at its core a method of which trains facilitators. He drawing oneself closer to God. has led several Va’adot at According to Alan Morinis, Temple Beth-El and said founding director of The he is excited to help people Mussar Institute, “To single realize their connection to God The images you keep of people you love – in photos, in your mind, in your heart – out the ethical, behavioral, through this innately Jewish deserve to be framed in a proper way. One that honors your family’s faith, culture and or practical elements without practice of mindfulness, self- tradition. We understand. After all, creating exactly the right way for you to say farewell reference to the religious or examination and rectification. spiritual aspects is to distort The cost for the program is something the Porter Loring family has done for four generations. what Mussar is and has always is $100. Registration is open been.” through Monday, Jan. 11. A Season of Mussar I will (Nobody will be denied both be offered from 9:30- admission because of inability 11 a.m. on seven Sunday to pay. Please contact Rabbi mornings on January 24, Mara Nathan regarding February 7, February 21, scholarships if needed.) March 6, March 27, April 10, For information, contact Sara 1101 McCullough 227-8221 I 2102 North Loop 1604 East 495-8221 I porterloring.com and May 1. Planto at [email protected] This class is an introduction or (210) 733-9135, ext. 108.
18 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL ב“ה eighteenth annual
Chanukah on the River
SUNDAY, DEC. 13
2015
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Chabad Center w hanu OnTh co FOR JEWISH LIFE & LEARNING ww.C kah eRiver. m Judasim. Done Joyfully. FREE LIVE PRESENTED BY CHANUKAH Chabad Center for Jewish Life & Learning Menorah Concert in cooperation with our R iverCruise Wonderland community synagogues DEPARTS FROM carnival & crafts moshav & Jewish organizations Arneson La Villita holzman family River Theater maverick Plaza band foundation in loving memory of Isaac Rapaport 1:00pm-2:00pm 1:30pm-3:30pm 3:30pm-4:30pm Israel & Paula Holzman MENORAH LIGHTING $5/PER PERSON ADMISSION $6/CHILD & concessions FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call (210) 764-0300 l ChanukahOnTheRiver.com
THE JEWISH JOURNAL A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 19 WHAT’S HAPPENING
TEXAS KOSHER BBQ CHAMPIONSHIP A SMOKIN’ SUCCESS Delicious Q, beautiful weather, great entertainment and lots of happy people filled the 2015/5776 Texas Kosher BBQ Championship. Congrats to the The Kosher Frat Pack who walked away as Grand Champion! Save the date for GOLDEN CALF GRILLERS PLACE next Year: December 4, 2016 (4 Kislev, 5777). AT AGUDAS ACHIM TEXAS KOSHER BBQ CHAMPIONSHIP The Golden Calf Grillers, a team of Golden Manor Jewish Senior Services, competed at the Texas Kosher BBQ Championship at Agudas Achim on November 8. The team received a third place award for brisket. The team - Tim Williamson, Lori Williamson, Daniel Laser, Linda Levy and Lauren Sandoval- served up beans, chicken, brisket and salmon.
SPREADING A LITTLE SUNSHINE On Tuesday, Nov. 10, more than 40 seniors attended a Thanksgiving-themed Sunshine Club Luncheon at the Chabad Center for Jewish Life & Learning. The event included a turkey lunch prepared by Sunshine Club volunteers Wendy Glick and Courtney Silver, and a heartwarming talk on the gratitude of giving by M.H. Levine, Executive Director of Jewish Family Service of San Antonio. The Sunshine Club is a joint program of the Chabad Center for Jewish Life & Learning and Golden Manor Jewish Senior Services. All Sunshine Club events and activities are complimentary. Free transportation is available. For more information please call (210) (210) 764-0300 or visit www. Happy Sunshine Club members enjoy a pre-Thanksgiving turkey lunch at the Chabad Center for Jewish Life & ChabadSA.com/SunshineClub. Learning
20 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL WHAT’S HAPPENING
YAD B’YAD CELEBRATES NOAH’S ARK WITH A ZOO SHOW Heintz Preschool’s Yad B’Yad inter- generational program celebrated Noah’s Ark with a special zoo show. The students along with grandparents and grandpals met the animals in the show ate animal related snacks, worked on a special Noah’s Ark art project, and learned about the animals in Spanish. Upcoming Yad B’Yad Events include a Hanukkah Party on December 8th, a Mock Wedding on January 13th, and a Rodeo Pony Ride Party on February 18th. This program is made possible thanks to a generous grant from Golden Manor Jewish Senior Services. For more information on Yad B’Yad. Contact Celina Geideshman at (210) 479-00429.
TASA TOGETHERNESS
Andrea Benatar, Kelly Maizel with baby Louis, and Marisa Tawil JUMP IN FOR SUNDAY FUNDAY Rodfei girls enjoy Sunday Funday at the Jumpy Place on October 25.
ABOVE: TASA 4th and 5th grade girls leading prayers over Sabbath Candles during Kabbalat Shabbat.
LEFT: TASA Judaic and Hebrew Studies teacher, Rabbi Levi Grossbaum, leading prayer and discussion with students during neighborhood Ushpizin “Sukkot” Walk.
RIGHT: TASA students enjoying lunch outside in the Sukkah, on a beautiful day at school.
Below: (l to r) Aliza Hanun, Sophie Powell, Eliana Fux, and Shayna Klein)
THE JEWISH JOURNAL A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 21 IN THE COMMUNITY Night to Honor Israel distributes $3.2 million Reprinted with permission from the declared, “There are members of the Jewish Herald-Voice United States Congress and there are members of the United States Senate On Sunday, Oct. 25, Jewish who get on their knees praying for and Christian friends gathered at the peace of Jerusalem.” Cornerstone Church in San Antonio The Jewish Federation of Greater to celebrate their mutual connection Houston has a more than 30-year to the State of Israel and to one partnership with San Antonio Pastor another. The 34th-annual A Night John Hagee. Each year, Pastor Hagee to Honor Israel featured keynote raises millions of dollars for various speakers Sen. Tim Scott of South charitable Israeli organizations that Carolina and Pastor John Hagee. he supports through the Jewish The program also included a Federation. greeting from Israel by Consul This year, Pastor Hagee General of Israel to the Southwest committed $3,425,000 to 24 United States Eitan Levon, and Jewish organizations. Among those an invocation by Rabbi Aryeh receiving grants were the American Scheinberg, from San Antonio’s Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, Orthodox synagogue, Congregation (l to r) Israel Consul General Eitan Levon, Rabbi Aryeh Scheinberg, Pastor John Hagee Friends of the IDF, Galilee Medical Rodfei Sholom. At a time when and U.S. Sen. Tim Scott. Center, the Holocaust Memorial Israel is inundated by daily violence Museum of San Antonio, Jewish and crises, this show of support and Hagee’s son, Pastor Matthew Hagee. about the $95 million distributed over Agency for Israel, Koby Mandel solidarity was especially meaningful. Pastor John Hagee, a charismatic the past 34 years to fund humanitarian Foundation, Magen David Adom, A Night to Honor Israel, an and inspiring leader, along with aid for the Jewish people, Pastor Meir Panim, Nefesh B’Nefesh, emotionally charged event sponsored this congregation, has created an Hagee proclaimed that “Love is not Netanya Academic College, by John Hagee Ministries, was environment of commitment and what you say, love is what you do.” Shurat Hadin, and the Women’s declared an overwhelming success generosity through philanthropy, Consul General Levon International Zionist Organization. by the more than 5,000 Christians innovation and involvement. In acknowledged the appreciation of Cornerstone Church is a and Jews in attendance and the his opening remarks, Pastor Hagee the strong messages of support sent nondenominational evangelical millions of television and Internet said, “We are here tonight to stand by the Christian community to Israel: church with more than 20,000 viewers. Musical performances of boldly with the State of Israel and the “Your support makes us strong and members. Since holding its first songs in Hebrew and English were Jewish people and to make it known secure and fills our hearts with joy.” Night to Honor Israel, JHM has sung by the Cornerstone Concert to the nations of the world that we In his stirring address, keynote donated more than $95 million to Choir and Orchestra led by Pastor are Israel’s dearest friend.” Speaking speaker Sen. Scott passionately Israeli and Jewish charities.
Aish Hatorah Scholar Emerge Yourself speaking at Rodfei In Elegance Rabbi Ahron Hoch of Shul and the Toronto will be visiting Aish Hatorah at the Rodfei Sholom from Learning December 14-16. Rabbi Centre. Éilan Hotel & Spa Hoch was one of the 5 He will founding Rabbis of Aish be giving HaTorah Toronto in 1981. RABBI classes on AHRON HOCH In 1991, he became Aish marital HaTorah’s Educational harmony, raising Jewish 18603 La Cantera Terrace Director, a position he held children, the journey of until 2006. During that time spiritual growth, and the San Antonio, Texas 78256 the branch expanded, and parsha. Please be in contact built 3 communities, with with the shul office at (210) 210-598-2900 over 8,000 people attending 493-3557 or email rodfeisa@ www.eilanhotel.com Aish annually. He is now the gmail.com for more Senior Rabbi at The Village information.
22 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL IN THE COMMUNITY Agudas JEWISH WAR VETERANS CORNER Agudas Upcoming Events Winter Conclave of the Achim Friday, Dec. 25 - Post Mid Department of Texas, Winter Ice Cream/Cookies Arkansas, Louisiana and Achim Purim Ball social at Audie Murphy VA Oklahoma.(TALO). Posts Hospital. Post members will from the four states will be Men’s Agudas Achim will be walk the wards distributing represented. Events begin hosting a Purim Ball on ice cream and cookies to with Friday night services Saturday, March 26, 2016. patients and employees on duty at Ft Sam Houston Main Club The evening will begin beginning at 1 p.m. to about Chapel. On Saturday with wine and Havdallah 3:30 p.m. morning, Jan. 23, TALO program followed by a lavish Purim Sunday, Dec. 27 - Post members will attend Ball to include heavy meeting and election of post officers for services at Congregation Agudas Achim. Congregation Agudas appetizers, bar service, 2016. Meeting begins at 9:30 a.m. with light Saturday afternoon, there will be an Achim Men’s Club will be dancing, silent auction breakfast, followed by business meeting and informal get together at the Main Chapel presenting guest speaker, and several surprises. election of officers. at Ft. Sam Houston. Saturday night’s Lynn Hickey, Associate More information is Tuesday, Dec. 29 - Post members banquet at The Barn Door begins at 7 p.m. Vice President and Director forthcoming. If you would to conduct bingo/social at CTC Center Sunday, Jan. 24, business meeting at Jewish of Athletics at University like to sit on a committee beginning at 7 p.m. with bingo, followed at Community Center. of Texas at San Antonio on and help plan this event, 8 p.m. by social time where post members For further information contact Jeffery Sunday, Dec. 13, 2015 at 11 please contact event co- serve coffee, cookies and lemonade to Hoffman at (210) 492-4980. a.m. A light breakfast will be chairs Lisa Abramson at patients in attendance and staff on duty. served. To RSVP and learn lisakabramson@gmail. For further details on the above activities, The JWV Membership Drive is in full more about the program, com or Michelle Vizurraga contact Ken Ashworth at (210) 647-0330. swing. If you would like to become a please contact Mike Kelne, at mkvizzurraga@ member of the post or learn more about [email protected] or bellsouth.net. Friday Jan. 22, 2016 – The new year them, contact Irwin Barath at (210) 341- Oren Leff at odleff@gmail. begins with San Antonio Post hosting 4502. com.
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THE JEWISH JOURNAL A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 23 IN THE COMMUNITY The CRC and Rodfei Sholom JCC to participate to present The Land in Cycle for Good This year, the Barshop Jewish Community Center will participate, of Israel, The Real Story for the first time, in Cycle for Good, a fundraiser The community is The Land the University of London, a organized annually by the invited to participate in two of Israel Master’s degree in Education Jewish Community Center workshops on Thursday, –The Real from Johns Hopkins Association (JCCA), to gather pledges to raise Dec. 17, by Ronnie Halibard, Story-4,000 University and is a licensed benefitting a charity of each funds for the First Chance author of Jewish History in a Years of school teacher in Israel, JCC’s choice. Locally, the Foundation of San Antonio, Flash. The first presentation History of where he now lives. event will be held Sunday, a local organization who HALIBARD is being co-sponsored by this most Over the past 6 years, Dec. 13 from 9 a.m. to will provide warm winter the Community Relations Coveted Land.” Throughout Ronnie has created and 12 noon in the Holzman clothing for underprivileged Council of the Jewish history the Land of Israel developed ‘Jewish History Auditorium. Thanks to children in the San Antonio Federation and the Israel has been invaded and settled in a Flash’ - a series of staggered start times, many area. Public Action Committee of in by numerous nations fast-paced and exciting, participants in Cycle for During this event, Congregation Rodfei Sholom with Jerusalem holding the interactive multimedia Good will ride indoor bikes participants will watch (IPA). It is entitled “The distinction of being the most presentations summarizing at the same time in Jewish cycling videos so they can Return of the Jewish Nation conquered city in history. Jewish history, each with a Community Centers across enjoy the simulation of to its Land.” It will be at the This will be a multimedia different subject focus. He North America. cycling through different Campus of the San Antonio presentation of 4000 years has traveled extensively Participants will register parts of the world, making Jewish Community at 12 demonstrating the ancient including communities in to cycle for one to three for a fun and interactive noon, 12500 NW Military Jewish connection to the land, Israel, England, Scotland, hours on one of the JCC’s morning. Hwy. A taco luncheon will be Jerusalem and Temple Mount. Ireland, Holland, Belgium, Schwinn Indoor Cycles, For more details served at $5. The program is There is no charge and the Switzerland, Gibraltar, South or they may opt to utilize on this event, contact free and open to the public. program is open to the public. Africa, the USA, Panama, their personal bikes with Gretchen Hokenson at The second lecture, Ronnie Halibard is an Australia and New Zealand. an exercise trainer. The (210) 302-6851, or visit sponsored by the Steven English-born educator This will be Halibard’s first cost to participate is $15 www.jccsanantonio.org/ Gossen Education Fund of with years of experience visit to San Antonio. per hour. Additionally, cycleforgood. Congregation Rodfei Sholom, teaching students of all For reservations or more cyclists will be encouraged will be in the evening of ages at Jewish schools in information please contact the December 17 at Rodfei the USA and in Israel. He Jewish Federation at (210) Sholom, 3003 Sholom holds a Bachelor’s degree 302-6960 or Rodfei Sholom Drive, 7-9 pm. It is entitled in Jewish Studies from at (210) 493-3557.
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24 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL IN THE IN THE COMMUNITY: Youth COMMUNITY Temple Beth-El Jewish Children’s Regional offers monthly adult Service offers assistance learning program to San Antonio youth Jewish Education Consultant, Rachel Stern, is Every year, 40-50 Jewish computer programmers and included San Antonin’s Bobbie offering monthly adult learning sessions during youth in San Antonio receive pharmacists, and many have Stern, Rabbi and Lynn Stahl and Religious School at Temple Beth-El. The theme of service from the Jewish appeared in public relations Gerd and Dorothy Miller. the classes, held on Sundays from 9:30 a.m. – 11 Children’s Regional Service materials produced by JCRS. Applications are currently a.m., is how Jewish ethics can guide family life. If (JCRS). In 2015, 42 area youth JCRS funds and serves Jewish being accepted for camp you are interested in attending any of the classes, received a combination of youth from seven states of the scholarship aid in 2016 and must please rsvp to [email protected]. services including “needs-based” Mid-south that include Texas. In be submitted by the February 15 Upcoming sessions include: scholarships for undergraduate 2015, more than unduplicated deadline. The deadline to apply December 13: The Ethical Implications for How college education, Jewish 1500 Jewish youth were funded for college aid for the 2016/2017 and What We Eat overnight camp, and special and served, including over 900 academic year is May 31, 2016. February 7: Take a walk on the wild side: What needs. Additional youth, from Jewish youth enrolled in the Special needs applications are Judaism says about: Tattoos, gambling, drinking, lower income families, are PJ Library Program. JCRS is accepted year-round. sex and other ‘sinful’ topics sent Hanukkah gifts, as are the oldest Jewish children’s To contact the agency March 27: Yetzer Ha ra/ Yetzer Ha Tov: What permanent Jewish residents of agency in the United States, to donate, or to apply for Judaism teaches about knowing right from wrong Texas state hospitals. having begun in 1855, when assistance, visit www.jcrs.org, April 3: Chochma, Binah, Da’at: understanding Generations of San Antonio it was created in New Orleans call (800) 729-5277 or email the stages of moral development in Jewish tradition Jewish youth funded by the as the first Jewish children’s [email protected]. The agency May 1: What would you do?: Judaism edition… agency have become physicians, home in this country. Past Board headquarters address is PO Box explore real life ethical dilemmas from a Jewish accountants, nurses, teachers, Members of the agency have 7368, Metairie, LA 70010. perspective FESTIVAL OF DELIGHTS From braised brisket to chocolate dreidels to freshly baked treats, seven kinds of potatoes for latkes (or homemade latkes in the Chef’s Case if you choose to forgo the fryer) to 20 kinds of apples for applesauce – we’re here for you.
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THE JEWISH JOURNAL A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 25 IN THE COMMUNITY: Youth Camp Gan Israel Winter Rodfei Sholom to host Winter Camp Camp registration underway Rodfei Sholom will hold a Winter happiness, and excitement about being Camp 2015 from December 21-31. Rodfei Jewish. It rubs off on the campers and Camp Gan Israel Winter Fun Time, edible creations, will be bringing down the famed SEED even their parents. They are amazing role Camp is currently registering hot cocoa club, Lego and COUNSELORS that have made such an models. Last year we had over 40 children campers, ages 18 months pottery workshops, a field trip impact in the summer camp and last year’s and parents have been calling to make sure through 11 years. The camp to Thin Air and more, all in the winter camp. it’s happening again,” said Rabbi Avraham will be held during the second Camp Gan Israel spirit. “The young women that come down to Scheinberg. week of winter break, Monday, “We look at this time as be counselors are the secret to our camp’s Please call the synagogue office at (210) Dec. 28 and goes until Friday, an opportunity for kids to amazing success. They love being in San 493-3557 or email [email protected] for Jan. 1. Drop-off is at 9 a.m. connect with Jewish friends Antonio and connecting with our children. more details. and pick-up is at 3:30 p.m. in a fun and educational way, They are just overflowing with warmth, Children 18 months - 4/5 year almost like a shot in the arm olds will be in the Gan Gani of Jewish pride,” said Camp classrooms with a similar Director, Rochel Teldon. schedule. For more information call Energized by a team of the Chabad office at (210) Standing Strong for San Antonio dedicated staff, the children 764-0300 or email Rochel@ will enjoy arts n’ crafts, Jewish ChabadSA.com.
Block & Dreeben School for Young Children offering parenting workshops
The Block & Dreeben 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in JCC School for Young Children’s Room 229, and Sunday, parenting workshops will Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 continue December 3 and a.m. in the Fisher Board Left to right: Albert Estrada, SVP; Michael Molak, San Antonio Region Chairman; Jack Roney, SVP; Mayra Mendoza, Bank Officer; 6 with Giving Authentic Room (Room 277). Parents Sarah Pendley,VP; Shahid Abdulla, SVP; Chris Davenport, SVP; Connie Gilbert, SVP; Alvin Shenk,VP; Marco Gonzalez, SVP Praise in a Culture Where do not need to attend both Marco Gonzalez, SVP; Connie Gilbert, SVP; Chris Davenport, SVP Everything is Awesome. workshops. Taught by Master Teacher The cost to attend is $5; it Like our symbol the mighty buffalo, PlainsCapital Bank and Parent Educator Laine is free for JCC members. Tea embodies strength, stability, and momentum. For over a Lipsky, this class will teach and snacks will be served. quarter of a century we have served the great state of Texas, parents about giving genuine Babysitting will also be forging long-lasting relationships and proudly utilizing our praise in an effort to help available for JCC members financial strength to help individuals and businesses in children build a positive at $3 per hour per child, sense of self. Often, children with advanced reservations. San Antonio prosper and move forward. are smothered with trophies, Members who have a Family awards, and inauthentic Plus membership will have Happy Chanukah from your friends at PlainsCapital Bank. praise; however, all of this access to free childcare with well-meaning acclaim has a advanced reservations. Call tendency to hurt children. (210) 302-6820 to reserve 210.541.8228 Parents are invited to childcare. Register to attend PlainsCapital.com come to this workshop to the workshop online at http:// discover ways in which they www.jccsanantonio.org/early- can more effectively deliver childhood/parenting-classes- praise. The workshop will at-the-jcc/. Call (210) 302- meet Thursday, Dec. 3 from 6873 for more information.
26 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL IN THE COMMUNITY: Youth IN THE COMMUNITY: Seniors Heintz Preschool opens up Winter Break Camp Heintz Preschool of Congregation Agudas Achim has opened up enrollment for its Winter Break Day Camp for children 2-8 years old. Heintz will be doing science experiments, Simcha Social Club games, arts and crafts, sports, and more! The camp runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every day with extended day options available both before and after camp. Session one will be from December 21-23 and session two will be from December 28-30. Hanukkah Program For more information on prices and times of our winter camp as well as other special Agudas Achim’s Senior Social Club events are free programs, please contact Preschool Director Celina Geideshman for this information or a tour Program, The Simcha for those 65 years of age of Heintz Preschool, (210) 479-0429 or [email protected]. Social Club, will be and over - $5 under 65. celebrating Hanukkah with Contact Agudas Achim at Hazzan Jeremy Lipton on (210) 479-0307 or email to Thursday, Dec. 3, 2015 at [email protected]. 11:30 a.m. in the Gurinsky Simcha Social Club Family Social Hall. The is a joint program of luncheon and program will Congregation Agudas feature songs and stories, Achim and Golden Manor latkes and laughs. RSVP Jewish Senior Services. is necessary for catering Transportation only purposes by Wednesday, arranged by Lety at (210) Dec.2, 2015. All Simcha 302-6946. Moonlight Supper Club at Napa Flats
The Agudas Achim 60+ Moonlight Supper Club December dinner will be held at Napa Flats, 1301 N Loop 1604 W, between Blanco and Huebner, on Thursday, Dec. 17 at 7 p.m. There will be vegetarian and dairy options available on the menu. This no-host dinner club, for “seasoned” participants is open to the community. For more information please contact Mickey Gross at [email protected] or Marilynn Berkowitz at marilynn31@ sbcglobal.net. Reservations are made through Agudas Achim at [email protected] or call (210) 479- 0307. Deadline for reservations is Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2015. Golden Manor Jewish Senior Services is offering rides to those in need of transportation. Please call Lety at (210) 302-6946 to make transportation arrangements. ChicagoChicago BagelBagel && DeliDeli // 2x1.52x1.5 unitsunits (3(3 units)units) JewishJewish JournalJournal -- AugustDecember 2013 2014
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THE JEWISH JOURNAL A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 27 IN THE COMMUNITY: Seniors
Members of the JCC’s GMJSS to Fit 4 Life fitness class perform seated dance offer new routines, complete with props, for students from programs the Block & Dreeben School for Young and services Children. in 2016
As 2015 nears its close, Golden Manor Jewish Senior Services (GMJSS) is busy planning for new growth, goals and ideas for the year to come. GMJSS serves seniors throughout the San Antonio area with transportation, Senior/Early Childhood one-on-one connections, agency partnerships, direct programming, kosher meals connections: building bridges and much more. The Barshop Jewish Community catalyst for the teachers to introduce make special snacks to share with This year, GMJSS turned Center Early Childhood and Senior the mitzvah, P’nei Zaken, honoring the seniors. On November 17, the to the community, asking for Services Departments are building the elderly which meshed well with children and seniors were able to their opinions on how the connections between the youngest the Block & Dreeben School for share a special meal together at the organization can best serve the and oldest members. The JCC Fit 4 Young Children’s November Jewish annual Senior Pre-K Thanksgiving Jewish community through Life classes recently shared some Value of the Month, rachamim - Luncheon. this growth. Reimagine, the lively exercise routines with children compassion. The teachers read Alissa Levey Baugh, JCC Director initiative that is collecting from early childhood. The children books about visiting the elderly and of Early Childhood Services, stated these thoughts and ideas from danced and clapped along as the found ways to incorporate visits “It’s an incredible opportunity the community through focus class participants performed three with the seniors into their classroom to have senior adults and young groups and surveys, will routines for them, complete with activities. children together under one roof. provide information to give props. After the performance, the Additionally, a class of two-year- The sky is the limit for possibilities direction to take in the year to children had the opportunity to visit olds made a special visit to the for building relationships across the come that will be the best fit and talk with the seniors. Senior Card Room as part of their generations.” for our Jewish community – This performance provided a daily routine, and pre-K classes including seniors of all ages. Academy Sleep / 2x2 units (4 units) “With your support, GMJSS Jewish Journal - January 2010 - v.1 can continue to grow and make many of these ideas and concepts given by the community a reality,” said Executive Director Daniel Laser. “Also, GMJSS will be able to maintain providing services by reaching more households to keep fighting Sleep Better. Breathe Easier. Think More Clearly. isolation, continuing to provide more rides to Jewish v Accredited by The American Academy of Sleep Medicine community events and v A full-service, all ages sleep center. Our medical directors are board-certified in sleep medicine, neurology (CN), religious services, and helping pulmonary medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics to address the needs that v Offering full diagnostic and therapeutic services, seniors today face.” comprehensive management, home sleep testing, GMJSS is preparing for and alternatives to CPAP its 2016 Membership drive. Academy Diagnostics, LLC Joshua Rotenberg, MD To be added to the GMJSS Adult & Pediatric Sleep Center Tarak Patel, MD mailing list or for questions, www.AcademyDxSleep.com Avie Grunspan, MD 8215 Fredericksburg Road Kelly Smith, MD contact the GMJSS office at San Antonio, Texas 78229 (210) 302-6946. 210.616.9500 tel 210.616.0400 fax Habla Español
28 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL IN THE COMMUNITY: College
KEEPING UP WITH CHABAD ON CAMPUS ABOVE: Students enjoy an engaging Torah discussion at the weekly Pizza and Parsha class hosted by Chabad on Campus BELOW: Cory Weinberg and Brett Davidoff Rabbi Ari at the Chabad on Campus student leadership convention in NYC. See page 34 for details on Chabad on Campus menorah lighting.
Students stop to pose for a picture at Agudas’ Kosher BBQ Championship. Out and About with Hillel San Antonio Hillel San Antonio continues to offer exciting and engaging opportunities for students on campus. On Sunday Oct. 11, students participated in the Jewish Federation’s Super Sunday, making calls to connect the wider Jewish community with the good work supported by the Annual Campaign. On Oct. 18, Hillel women participated in Barry Efron, Attourney / 2x2 units (4 units) Project Uplift, decorating bras for cancer Jewish Journal - January 2010 - v.1 patients in order to raise awareness of breast cancer. The event was co-sponsored by Hadassah and Congregation Agudas Achim’s Sisterhood. On Sunday Nov. 1, students participated in the annual AIPAC event, at which campus activities were highlighted by many of the speakers. On Nov. 7, Hillel San Antonio tailgated at the UTSA football game, with kosher hot dogs and refreshments cheering for their football team. The next day, Hillel’s team in the Kosher BBQ Championship was led by UTHSCA medical students Zach Spigel and UTSA Student Jordan Reich showcases the Brian Milman. The Hillel team’s salmon bra she made at Project Uplift. was very popular among attendees and the beans took third place with the judges. San Antonio visit the website at www. That afternoon students also made blankets HillelSA.org or contact Alan Yancelson for cancer patients with Texas Lutheran at [email protected]. Check out University’s civic engagement program. Hillel on Facebook, and please subscribe to For more information about Hillel the e-newsletter and share with your friends.
THE JEWISH JOURNAL A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 29 PERSPECTIVE From a San Antonio Church Choir to Jerusalem My wife and I return to San The answer, surprisingly, higher. Antonio to run the Rock 'n' PERSPECTIVE Not unlike how we devel- Roll Marathon December 6, oped into multiple marathon one of five marathons we are HAROLD BERMAN runners. We started running running this year to "cel- when we lived in San Anto- ebrate" my 50th birthday. We is the same answer to the nio. But we never ran more haven't been back since 1991. question how we can run five than three miles. Gradually, This is a homecoming for us. marathons in a single year. we saw that there were longer For however much San An- It comes down to one word: races and became inspired to tonio has changed since then, transformation. train for them. we have changed more. At a time when many Oh, and I'm running these When we first met in San Jewish communal leaders five marathons, including Antonio, I was the Principal continue to ask how we can the one in San Antonio, for Clarinetist in the Air Force make Judaism more acces- an organization that is all Band at Lackland. Beyond sible to intermarried families, about transforming lives. The occasionally participating in our journey suggests they Israel Sport Center for the Jewish activities on base, I may be asking the wrong Disabled helps people with was as unaffiliated as they question. We are better served missing limbs achieve in come. My wife, however, by asking how Judaism sports what many able-bodied was highly affiliated - just not can transform intermarried people cannot (if you want with the Jewish community. families and bring meaning to to help me help this amazing Born into a devout Christian their lives. Rather than focus organization that is a world family, she was the Minister mostly on making the Jewish leader in its field, you can do of Music at a large San Anto- door easy to open, we should so at www.fiscd.org/mitzvah- nio church. focus more on what is behind Berman.html.) Today, we return to San An- the door. We return to San Antonio tonio as an observant Jewish The complete story of as a Jewish family. We return family living in Israel. In San how we transformed from to San Antonio as marathon Antonio, my wife conducted an intermarried family to runners. We return to San church choirs. In Israel, she an observant Jewish one is Antonio transformed. directs a Jewish women's cho- too detailed to recount here. Harold Berman lives with rus and teaches at a Jerusalem But it's all about transforma- his wife, Gayle, and their girls seminary. In San Anto- tion - we were inspired by family in Efrat in Israel. Har- nio, I had a gig singing in a role models who offered us a old blogs about his marathon- Harold Berman crossing the finish line at the Geneva Marathon in May, church choir. In Israel, I have deepBulter vision / 2x2 of Jewish units life(4 andunits) ing adventures at Onthero- 2015. been raising funds for several gentlyJewish challenged Journal us- Augustto aim 2011adto50.com. non-profit organizations vital to Israel's social fabric. In San Antonio, we were a childless Steven H. Butler, C.P.A. couple. In Israel, we have two beautiful children who are Darilek Butler & Associates PLLC fluent in Hebrew and conver- sant in Jewish texts. n How we got from point A n to point B could literally fill a Taxes book - and it has. Doublelife: One Family, Two Faiths and a Small Business Journey of Hope (available on n Amazon and other book sites) Consulting tells of our unanticipated journey to becoming a Jewish Personal Financial family. Planning How did an intermarried couple so unaffiliated that they weren't on any Jewish organization's radar screen 2702 N. Loop 1604 E., Suite 202, San Antonio, TX 78232 become a Jewish family (210) 979-0055 / FAX (210) 979-0058 passionate about all things [email protected] Jewish?
30 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL ARTS & CULTURE Discount tickets to B’nai B’rith Kinky Boots available gift for Golden Manor Jewish turn his business around with Federation Senior Services has a very help from Lola, a fabulous limited number of tickets entertainer in need of some literacy available to see the musical sturdy stilettos. Together, this initiative Kinky Boots at the Majestic unlikely pair finds that they Theatre at 7:30 p.m. on have more in common than JFSA CFO Tiffany Thursday, Jan. 28, 2016. The they ever dreamed possible, Bockerstette accepts a tickets are for seats in the proving that when you change donation from B’nai B’rith Center Mezzanine section, your mind about someone, Alamo Brandeis Chapter and are available for a group you can change your whole for the San Antonio Jewish discounted rate of $54. To world. Inspired by a true story, Coalition for Literacy. purchase, contact Christina Kinky Boots features a joyous, Weinfeld, (210) 302-6954 or Tony®-winning score by [email protected]. Cyndi Lauper, direction and Rodfei Sholom Book Club discovers Winner of 6 Tony Awards® Tony-winning choreography Jewish Pirates Of The Caribbean including best musical, Kinky by Jerry Mitchell and a Boots is an inspirational story hilarious, uplifting book by Rodfei Sholom’s Book Club will meet in Spain and Portugal, follows a struggling shoe four-time Tony winner Harvey on Wednesday, Dec. 2, at 7:30 p.m. in the many underground Jews factory owner who works to Fierstein. conference room at the synagogue to discuss were forced to flee. Many Jewish Pirates of the Caribbean by Edward went to the New World as Kritzler. Kritzler, a journalist who moved explorers, conquistadors, Agudas Achim January from New York to the island of Jamaica, has and pioneering spent decades studying the Jewish history of merchants. Others became Sisterhood Book Review his adopted island. outlaws, practicing piracy While the book has a historic basis, it is on the high seas. Agudas Achim Sisterhood January written as an entertaining novel making it an Jewish Pirates of the Carribean delves into book review will be presented by easy book to read. The discussion will be led the lives of Jews who chose the freedom of Rabbi Ariel Greenberg. The selection by Amanda Nathan. the high seas and New World adventure over will be The Dovekeepers by Alice During the Inquisition, which took hold the persecution of the Old World. Hoffman. Nearly 2,000 years ago, nine hundred Jews held out for months against armies of Romans on Shabbat lunch and a movie at Temple Beth-El Masada, a mountain in the Judean desert. According to the ancient Head to Temple Beth-El Kutscher’s, a film about for those 65 and older, and historian Josephus, two women and for lunch and a movie on the last Jewish country only $5 for those under 65. five children survived. Based on this Saturday, Dec. 5 at 11:45 club resort in the Catskills. RSVP to Dollie at dollie@ tragic and iconic event, Hoffman’s a.m. The Shabbat lunch will Kutsher’s was family owned beth-elsa.org or (210) 733- novel is a spellbinding tale of four extraordinarily bold, feature specially prepared and operated for more than 9135, ext. 208. The event is resourceful, women, each of whom has come toPho Masada VN Bistro by a (VietnameseJewish comfort Noodle foods House) and 100 years until its demolition made possible by a generous different path. will be followed by the in 2014. grant from Golden Manor - Boba tea – traditionalshowing menu of –Welcome vegetarian to The Shabbat lunch is free Jewish Senior Services. 10003 NW Military HWY 210-994-9638 Mon-Sat 11-9PMBELDON (Closed Sun) LIBRARY NEWS 10% off with this coupon Pho VN Bistro The Beldon Library has shipped 3 cartons of books to the Vilnius HOURS FOR THE Jewish Library in Vilnius, Lithuania. There will be more books to send. BELDON LIBRARY (Vietnamese Noodle House) The Vilnius Jewish Library was destroyed by the Nazis during the Mondays: Holocaust. The Lithuanian Jewish community is trying to rebuild and • Boba tea • Traditional Menu • Vegetarian 12:30 p.m. – restock this library with Jewish books. Monetary donations to cover 5:30 p.m. 10003 NW Military Hwy. 210-994-9638 shipping costs are welcome. Tuesdays: The next Beldon Used Book Sale will take place on May 15 and 16, Mon - Sat: 11 - 9PM (Closed Sunday) 10 a.m. – 2016. Donations of gently used books, CDs and DVDs for children and 12:45 p.m. adults are being accepted. Wednesdays: The Beldon Library, part of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio, has 1:15 p.m. – 10% OFF WITH THIS COUPON a full selection of Hanukkah books for children and adults. There are also 3:30 p.m. cookbooks with a variety of latke recipes available for check out.
THE JEWISH JOURNAL A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 31 WHAT IS HANUKKAH? HANUKKAH - FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Hanukkah commemorates the victory of the ancient Israelites over the Syrian Greek army, and the subsequent miracle of restoring the menorah in the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. The miracle of Hanukkah is that only one vial of oil was found with just enough oil for one day, and yet it lasted for eight full days. Decorated Brownie Bites If you’re looking for something other than another doughnut or latkes vari- ation, consider these great, alternative treats from Pastry chef Paula Shoy- er’s cookbook, The Holiday Kosher Baker (Sterling Epicure, November 2013.) They can be decorated with colored sugars, sprinkles, nonpareils, crushed candies, or nuts.
Servings: 96 one-inch bites
Ingredients: 10 ounces bittersweet chocolate 1/2 c canola oil, plus 2 teaspoons Hanukkah Candle for greasing pan 1½ c sugar 1/3 c soy milk Lighting Ceremony 3 large eggs 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract As with all other Jewish after placing them in the menorah), 1/2 tsp salt nilla, and whisk again. Add the salt, rituals, the lighting of Hanukkah we recite three blessings. 3/4 tsp baking powder baking powder, and cocoa—and mix. candles goes according to a specific To read and hear these 1/3 c unsweetened cocoa Finally, add the flour in four parts and order and has blessings that blessings in Hebrew (and to see 1¼ c all-purpose flour whisk well each time. Scoop the mix- accompany it. transliteration) visit http://bit. At least 3 different colored sugars, ture into the pan and spread it evenly. On the first of Hanukkah’s ly/1IawkcF. sprinkles, nonpareils, crushed can- eight nights, only two candles are dies, or ground nuts 4. Bake for 30 minutes, or un- placed in the Hanukkah menorah Praised are You, til the top looks dry and a toothpick (also known as a hanukkiah): the Our G-d, Ruler of the universe, Directions: inserted in the center comes out look- shammash, or “helper” candle, Who made us holy through Your ing a little gooey. Cool for 30 min- which has its own designated spot commandments 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Use 1 utes and then freeze for a minimum (usually in the center), and another and commanded us teaspoon oil to grease a 9 x 13-inch of one hour. candle. Each night, another candle to kindle the Hanukkah lights. baking pan. Line with parchment pa- is added so that on the eighth and per, allowing some to extend up and 5. Place the decorations into final night of Hanukkah, nine Praised are You, Our G-d, over the sides. Grease top and sides small shallow bowls. Pull up the candles (the shammash plus eight Ruler of the universe, Who with the other teaspoon of oil. parchment paper to lift the brownie others) are lit. performed wondrous deeds for our out of the pan. Trim 1/2 inch from The candles are placed in the ancestors in those ancient days at 2. Break of chop the chocolate the sides and cut the short side of menorah from right to left (just as this season. into small pieces and melt it, either the brownie into long 3/4 to 1-inch Hebrew is written from right to over a double boiler or in the micro- wide strips. Cut each strip into small left), but are lit from left to right. (First Night Only): Praised wave oven for 45 seconds, stir, heat squares. The shammash candle is always are You, Our G-d, Ruler of the for 30 seconds, stir, and heat another the first one lit, and is used to light universe, Who has given us life 15 seconds if needed, until complete- 6. To decorate, press the top or the others, starting with the left- and sustained us and enabled us to ly melted. bottom of each brownie into the de- most one. (Think of it as lighting reach this season. sired decoration. Store in an airtight When the chocolate is melt- the candle representing the newest 3. container at room temperature for up ed, add the oil and sugar and whisk night first.) Reprinted from to three days or freeze them for up to well. Add the soy milk, eggs, and va- Before lighting the candles (but MyJewishLearning.com. three months.
32 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL HANUKKAH Remembering The Maccabeats release deceased Jewish new Hanukkah video Military Veterans By Jas Chana in 2010. The video for the song, a take Jewish War Veterans of America SA Post #753 asks you to (JTA) Jewish a cappella group the on Taio Cruz’s then-popular club anthem Maccabeat has released a new music “Dynamite,” has garnered 10.6 million views remember these Jewish military veterans whose yahhrzeit video for their song Latke Recipe ahead of on YouTube. (anniversary of the individual’s death) occurs in the month Hanukkah 2015. The band has since opened for Jewish of DECEMBER and who are buried in a local cemetary. If Latke Recipe is a parody of rock band Walk reggae star Matisyahu and performed at the you know of a names missing please contact Herschel at The Moon’s Shut Up and Dance hit from last White House for a reception in honor of (210) 494-8768. summer. Jewish Heritage Month. The Maccabeats breakout hit was another To watch the video, visit the link on the AARON, BERNARD MORETSKY, HAROLD JTA website, http://bit.ly/1TeD1LR. Hanukkah song, Candlelight, released AARONSON, ALVIN NARTER, SIDNEY ALBERTS, WILLIAM NAULT, WENDY In the Kitchen: APPLESTEIN, ROSE PALM , JOSEPH ARBETTER, MILTON PATTERSON, JAMES Potato Latkes BARSHOP, SAM PHILLIPS, HENRY BLUM, CARL POMERANTZ, MARK By Claudia Roden CHOSED, ALBERT RECKTOR, MORRIS myjewishlearning.com COHAN, DAVID REISFIELD, HAROLD Potato Latkes are one of the most famous COHEN, SOLOMON RESNICK, SAUL of Jewish foods and a specialty of Hanukkah. DAVIS, DONALD RIPPSTINE, EDWARD The latkes are served as an appetizer, as a remove the starchy liquid, which could make side dish, and even for tea with a sprinkling DAVIS, MICHAEL RIVKIND, ROGER the latkes soggy. of confectioners’ sugar. They can be Beat the eggs lightly with salt, add to the DAVIS, HYMAN SCHERR, HYMAN marvelous if properly prepared, just before potatoes, and stir well. Film the bottom of a eating. DORMAN, ROBERT SCHWARZKOPF, SIDNEY frying pan with oil and heat. Take serving- spoonfuls, or as much as 1/4 cup (50 ml), of DUFF, JOHN SEIDMAN, JACOB Ingredients: the mixture and drop into the hot oil. Flatten Salt ESSERICK, BEN SELIGMANN, IRVING a little, and lower the heat so that the fritters 2 large eggs cook through evenly. When one side is FEIN, WALTER SEMEGRAN, MICHAEL 2 lbs potatoes brown, turn over and brown the other. Oil for frying FRANK, MELVIN SILBERMAN, SAMUEL Lift out and serve very hot. Peel and finely grate the potatoes. Put GARCIA, BRUNETTA SMITH, ZAVELL them straight into cold water, then drain and Reprinted with permission from The GENSBERG, FRANK STEPNER, PAUL squeeze them as dry as you can by pressing Book of Jewish Food: An Odyssey from them with your hands in a colander. This is to Samarkand to New York (Knopf). GITZES, JOSEPH STOCKMAN , LILY GOTTLIEB, A. MATHEW SUAREZ, CECILIO HALFF, HARRY TEBELLE, ISADORE KIMMELMAN, WEINTRAUB, MICHAEL ABRAHAM Happy Hanukkah! WEISSBERG, SAMUEL LEVINE, SAMUEL WIEDERMANN, From the Board and Staff of the LEWIS, CHARLES BERNARD Jewish Federation of San Antonio LOWELL, WALFORD WOLFF, RICHARD M’CARVER, MITCHELL WOLFSON, SIDNEY MICHAELS, DREW WULFE, LEON MILLER, BERNARD ZALMAN, LEONARD
THE JEWISH JOURNAL A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 33 HANUKKAH Temple Beth-El organizes “Mitzvah Month” There are many toys to donate for Holiday Two locations of the Fifth Night opportunities to make a gift giving. The event San Antonio Ronald difference in the lives of is generously supported McDonald House are in Hanukkah Project others during the month of financially by Golden Manor need of volunteers on December: Jewish Senior Services. Christmas Day, Friday, The Fifth Night program, and Christmas,” explains Hanukkah Party at Dec. 25. The three shifts sponsored by Big Tent Agudas Achim Social Judaism, is a brief but big, Action Chair, Isadora Golden Estates San Antonio Food Bank for volunteers are 9:00 a.m. blowout event supporting Sintes. – pick a day during to 12:00 Noon, 12 Noon 130 Spencer Lane – in the Congregation Agudas The synagogue will entertainment area Hanukkah to volunteer to 3:00 p.m., and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Volunteer duties Achim’s continuing be collecting the toys Sunday, Dec. 6, at 3 p.m. 5200 W. Old Highway 90 partnership with the San from now through Join with other volunteers Tuesdays through Fridays include answering phones and assisting/checking- Antonio Fisher House. Hanukkah. Ms. Sintes to bring Jewish residents in December, 9 a.m. to 12 “Essentially a toy drive, will be presenting more and their friends a Taste of noon and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in families. Volunteers must be at least 18 years the program is designed information on the project Hanukkah! Volunteers will (Closed Christmas Day) to engage children in the at Agudas Achim’s Lots of deliver Hanukkah treats and The San Antonio Food of age, and must come by the location for brief value of giving back. Latkes Family Hanukkah goody bags, play dreidel, Bank receives a lot of Children are encouraged Program at 5:30 p.m. on light the menorah, and sing donations during December, instructions beforehand. For more information or to to donate one Hanukkah Wednesday, Dec. 9. For Hanukkah songs. The event and they need help in their toy that they receive to more information, call is generously supported Warehouse and Kitchen. volunteer, please call Liz Medina, 614-2554 or e-mail be presented to the Fisher Mindi Stern at (210) 479- by Golden Manor Jewish Volunteers will sort and/or House between Hanukkah 0307. Senior Services. All ages pack produce, nonperishable [email protected]. and families from across the foods, and household community are welcome. items, preparing them Family Service Contact Geri Gregory at for distribution. Duties Association’s “Adopt a Temple Beth-El, (210) 733- may include checking for Family” for Christmas 9135, ext. 120 or geri@beth- expiration dates, opened Family Service Association elsa.org to tell her you will packages and spoilage, receives applications from be there. labeling cans, packing bags over 450 families each of food and household year who need assistance Two Seniors’ Hanukkah items. Other duties may during the holiday season. 1102 E. Sonterra Blvd. #106 Parties at Adante include general cleaning The organization will give San Antonio, TX 78258 of the area, breaking down us a list of families and Independent and Assisted www.janismorganrealty.com Senior Living boxes, etc. This project is you may be matched with Independent – 2702 Cembalo fun and rewarding for both a family that matches your Janis 210.413.5032 Blvd. (off NW Military adults and children. Contact family in size, age, etc. Kerri 210.445.0320 Hwy) in their Casual Café Dayna Robokowski at so that you may provide Office 210.482.3236 Sunday, Dec. 13, 2 p.m. and (210) 431-8388 for further wrapped gifts and food for 3:15 p.m. information and to sign up Christmas. You will deliver Join with other volunteers to volunteer. the items to the agency, not to bring our Jewish seniors, the family directly. This friends, and family two Ronald McDonald House is a mitzvah project that warm and engaging of San Antonio involves all ages. For more Hanukkah parties. Sing 4803 Sid Katz, in the information, contact Geri Hanukkah songs with Medical Center area Gregory at 733-9135, ext. Kol Simcha, the Temple’s 227 Lewis St., between San 120 or [email protected] volunteer choir, play dreidel, Pedro & McCullough, near to let her know you would distribute goody bags, and the Temple like to help out. serve latkes and refreshments All ages and families are Sunday at Silo welcome! Contact Geri Present this Special Invitation to Receive A Gregory at 733-9135, ext. COMPLIMENTARY ENTRÉE 120 or geri@beth-elsa. Buy one entrée and receive the second, of equal or lesser value, org to tell her you will be complimentary. Parties of 10 or less. Sunday evenings 5-9pm there. Adante has asked Reservation required. Dine-in only. Excludes Prix Fixe. Must present this offer at time of service. volunteers to help with their Toys for Tots drive – please visit siloelevatedcuisine.com bring new and unwrapped 1133 Austin Hwy - 824.8686 / 434 N. Loop 1604 West - 483.8989
34 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL HANUKKAH Spurs Mascot Temple Beth-El hosts Hanukkah to Shine at celebration for adults Temple Beth-El will host an this fabulous, fun-filled event where Gift Certificate to Joseph’s and a Chanukah at Adults Only Hanukkah Celebration you can dress casual, eat delicious David Yurman bracelet from Lee beginning at 7 p.m. on December 10. holiday food, that you don’t have to Michaels Fine Jewelry. Winners do The evening will feature a signature cook, and celebrate Hanukkah,” said not need to be present to win. the Spurs Pre- cocktail, a Maccabee Martini, wine chair, Dr. Amy Benedikt. Event sponsorships are available and appetizers. Games, dancing, During the event, five raffle prizes for $800, $1200, and $1800 for Game Event and music by Barshop Ollervidez will be awarded: A top of the line tables of 8, and individual tickets Entertainment and a festive catered Apple watch; a restaurant package are $72. For reservations and to buy The second annual Chanukah at the dinner by Drew Glick will round out to Il Sogno, Moshe’s Golden raffle tickets, log onto www.beth- Spurs will feature a pre-game event in the the evening. Falafel, and The Luxury; a $500 Gift elsa.org or call (210) 733-9135. H-E-B Fan Zone at the AT&T Center on “You won’t want to miss out on Certificate to Julian Gold; a $500 Monday, Dec. 14, from 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. The event will feature an appearance by the Spurs Coyote, a Menorah lighting, a Fogiel Gift Shop JFS announces 2015 commemorative Chanukah at the Spurs 2015 T-Shirt, and an opportunity to watch ready for Hanukkah Latke Party honorees the Spurs’ shootaround practice. The Fogiel Gift Shop at the Barshop Jewish Jewish Family Service will prepared by guest chefs. A limited number of tickets at a Community Center has added new inventory honor Rosanne Atlas, Dan To make your reservations, discounted group rate will be available for this Hanukkah. In addition to the wide Markson and Natalie Levine at send your check for $36 per for the game against the Utah Jazz variety of Judaica that is regularly in stock, this year’s Annual Latke Party. person, payable to Jewish (7:30 p.m. tipoff). Tickets may be the shop has additional dreidels (including The honorees are all community Family Service, to “JFS Latke purchased and printed by visiting this decorative ones), cards, wrapping paper, leaders and long-time supporters Party,” 12500 NW Military exclusive link: www.SpursChanukah.com. children’s items, latke plates, and many other of Jewish Family Service. Hwy, Suite 250, San Antonio, Enter promo code Spurs. items for sale. The Menorah selection includes Alice and Ron Perloff are TX 78231. You may also call Chanukah at the Spurs is coordinated items in stone, metal, and ceramic. hosting the event on Sunday, JFS with your credit card by the Chabad Center for Jewish Life & The Fogiel Gift Shop is open Tuesdays Dec. 20 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. information at (210) 302-6921, Learning in conjunction with our local and Wednesdays from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., and Cost per person is $36, with the or make your online payment at synagogues and Jewish organizations. Thursdays and Fridays from 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. proceeds helping JFS continue www.jfs-sa.org. For more information, please call The shop will stay open until 6pm Tuesday, its work in the San Antonio and If you cannot attend the Chabad at (210) 764-0300, Spurs accounts Dec. 1 for Hands on Chanukah, a free the surrounding area. Attendees event, JFS welcomes donations manager Chanson Douglas at (210) 444- community event. will enjoy a mouth-watering to support the professional 5099, email [email protected], or For more information about merchandise, dinner, schmoozing, making mental health and senior visit www.ChabadSA.com/SpursNight. please contact Donna Hatchett at (210) 302- new friendsBeyer Boys and, /of 2x2 course, (4 units) services that JFS provides to the 6863 or [email protected]. deliciousJewish homemade Journal - Januarylatkes 2014 community.
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THE JEWISH JOURNAL A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 35 HANUKKAH Pearl to host Hanukkah celebration First ever UTSA campus menorah lighting and menorah lighting with YSJA Chabad on Campus will host the first-ever public Pearl is creating a as well. menorah lighting on the UTSA campus. The lighting will new holiday tradition The celebration will begin at 6 p.m. with take place on a Giant 9 foot Menorah in the center of in partnership with Hanukkah greetings from Rabbi Chaim Campus on Monday Dec. 7, from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Young & Jewish Block, Executive Director at Chabad Center All are welcome to join this momentous occasion of San Antonio (YJSA) for Jewish Life & Learning as well as Mayor bringing the Chanukah Miracle to the biggest college with the inaugural Ivy Taylor, followed by a historic nine-foot in San Antonio, while enjoying music, chocolate gelt, Hanukkah Menorah Menorah lighting to celebrate the fourth night dreidels and more. lighting celebration on of the holiday for an evening celebrating the For more info please contact Rabbi Ari Weingarten at Wednesday, Dec. 9. holiday in true Pearl fashion. (210) 391-3621 or email [email protected]. The festivities run Indie-folk-rock band Tera Ferna will take from 6 p.m. to 9:30 the stage following the lighting to play Rodfei Sholom p.m. and will include several traditional Chanukah songs along traditional kosher with a 45-minute set of their own music. Hanukkah Celebration food along with music throughout the evening. Throughout the evening, Green Vegetarian Rodfei Sholom will celebrate the start of Hanukkah “The Menorah stands as a symbol of the Cuisine will offer falafel burritos for $8, on Sunday, Dec. 6, at the synagogue, from 4 p.m. - 6:30 power of light, liberty, religious freedom along with traditional Chanukah Jelly Donuts p.m. The fun will begin with The Twister Sisters and their and tolerance,” said Rabbi Levi Teldon, for $4. Local favorite singer-songwriter Brent fantastic balloons - including dreidels and menorahs. In Co-Director at YJSA. “Pearl continuously Michael Wood will close out the special addition, there will be face-painting, a dreidel pinata, opens its arms to every individual of the evening with a two-hour set of music on the and arts & crafts activities. At 5 p.m. there will be a San Antonio community and we are very plaza for all to enjoy. home-cooked traditional Hanukkah meal served in a much looking forward to the Chanukah For more information, please visit www. warm, friendly environment. The highlight of the event celebration,” said Nicole Porterfield, Board atpearl.com and to keep up with upcoming will be lighting the first candle of Hanukkah. For more Member at YJSA. The Menorah at Pearl will events and happenings, “Like” Pearl on information and to RSVP contact the synagogue office at be lit each successive evening of Chanukah Facebook at facebook.com/historicpearl (210) 493-3557 or e-mail to [email protected]. Happiness and Help 24/7: Reinventing Memory Care
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36 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL FROM THE COVER
Thursday, Dec. 10 at
TORAHS 7 p.m. continued from page 1 Lecture at Rodfei Sholom stolen from the Jewish - Restoring Jewish Heritage communities during the Speaker / Presenter - Sibyl Holocaust have been held by Silver, Foundation President Russian and other Eastern Saturday, Dec. 12 European governments, like During Shabbat Belarus, Poland, Rumania services Rodfei Sholom will and the Ukraine. Until have a special presentation now, Russia had never by Sibyl Silver. Our Stolen allowed any of these stolen Heritage and What Needs to Torahs to be returned to be Done to Locate, Rescue service and used by Jewish and Restore Judaica Stolen by communities. Through the the Nazis and Kept in Russia, long and dedicated service Belarus, Poland, Ukraine and of Sybil Silver from the Romania Jewish Heritage Foundation A Stand-Up Kiddush will Inc. of Boca Raton, Florida, follow the Shabbat services. these and other Holocaust Sunday, Dec. 13 from 10 Torahs are being returned to a.m. until 2 p.m. service. Display with explanation “These Torahs represent of the history of the Torahs. the heart and soul of the The Thursday lecture Jewish people,” said Rabbi and the Sunday display are Aryeh Scheinberg.“This is being co-sponsored by the the first time that Torahs Holocaust Memorial of stolen during the Holocaust San Antonio, a program of and kept in Russia have ever Federation. been exhibited in Texas. The community is invited These Torahs are being to see the display and used to promote Holocaust listen to the history of the education and strengthen recovered Torahs. Jewish communities.” For more information A full program is being contact Judy Lackritz at planned for the weekend: (210) 302-6960 or Bobbie Ghitis at (210) 493-3557.
Is the number of friends your son can invite to his Bar Mitzvah directly proportional to the number of people you can squeeze into your living room?
If only they’d rent at the Campus. Then I could invite Jimmy, and Tara, and Corey, and Shelby, and Martha, and Jason, and Mark, and Karen, and Noah, and...
WE RENT! For more information, call Mike Gri n at 210-302-6801 or Carisa Heiss at 210-302-6866. You can also visit www.thecampustx.org.
THE JEWISH JOURNAL A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 37
Brainstorming a Bat or Bar Mitzvah? There’s a room for that! The Campus has a variety of rooms available for rent which are perfect for events large and small. For more information, visit www.thecampustx.org or call Mike Gri n, 210-302-6801 or Carisa Heiss, 210-302-6866. U.S. & WORLD Hungarian couple uncovers last records of murdered Jews in apartment wall By Sam Sokol/ still remains missing, “the claimed showed a tendency the rotating chairmanship of Both Hungary and IHRA Jerusalem Post content and scale of the towards downplaying their the International Holocaust have asserted that Holocaust finding is unprecedented,” countrymen’s role in the Remembrance Alliance and researchers in Europe have Thousands of pages culled Kenyeres said. “It helps to fill genocide of Hungarian Jewry. is strongly lobbying to revise had their investigations from a census documenting a huge gap in the history of That conflict led to a the European Union’s General hampered by restricted Budapest’s Jewish the Holocaust in Budapest.” year-long boycott of the Data Protection Regulation, access to archival data, with population for the purposes `While deportations for government’s official 2014 a measure being touted by archivists citing the GDPR of ghettoization during the rural Jews began immediately Hungarian Holocaust policymakers as creating a as their rationale for not Holocaust were uncovered following Germany’s invasion Memorial Year. “right to be forgotten” for EU complying with requests for behind a wall by a couple and occupation of its one-time Hungary currently holds citizens. documents. renovating their apartment ally in 1944, many of the Jews in the Hungarian capital, of Budapest were saved by according to media reports. the arrival of the Red Army According to a report in only months after the ghetto’s The Guardian, Gabor and establishment. Brigitte Berdefy found more Last January, the Hungarian than 6,000 pages, which ambassador to the UN were used to track down the officially took responsibility Jewish inhabitants of the city for his country’s role in the so that they could be moved Holocaust. That statement to a ghetto for subsequent came only days after the local deportation to Auschwitz. Jewish community accused “Jewish people filled in the Budapest of engaging in forms honestly, they refused Holocaust revisionism. to believe where this might At the time, the Federation end up,” Istvan Kenyeres, of Hungarian Jewish who runs the city’s archives Communities (Mazsihisz) had and is now in possession of been involved in a high-profile the papers, was quoted as dispute with President Viktor saying. Orbán’s administration over While most of the census a series of incidents which it members of the san antonio jewish community for four generations
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38 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL U.S. & WORLD Hundreds gather at Israel memorial Penner's / 2x2 units (4 units) Jewish Journal service for Ezra Schwartz BAR MITZVAH TRADITION TEL AVIV (JTA) — West Bank Etzion settlement Hundreds of people gathered bloc. He had come to help at Ben Gurion Airport to pay beautify a nature reserve
Penner’s BAR MITZVAH TRADITION tribute to Ezra Schwartz, the dedicated to the three Jewish American student killed in late teens kidnapped and killed by Has the largest selection of boy’s suits in the southwest November in a terror attack. terrorists last year in the same Friends, classmates and area. fellow yeshiva students sang Family and friends recalled Max Schwartz found the Jewish songs arm-in-arm in a Schwartz, a native of Sharon, perfect suit large circle November 21, in a Massachusetts, as a funny at Penner’s Ezra Schwartz, an 18-year-old for his Bar room near the ambulance that and caring young man with Mitzvah. held Schwartz’s coffin, before American, was fatally shot in a magnetic personality and a it left for its final journey Israel on November 19 while love for sports. home to Massachusetts. At the delivering food packages to “He was someone who soldiers. circle’s center were an Israeli touched people,” said flag, a New England Patriots Schwartz’s uncle, Yoav It’s worth the trip from The Valley, Corpus, Austin and even Houston for the best selection of suits! football Jersey and Schweppes Yeshivat Ashreinu in the Schwartz, a resident of Israel. TRADITION BAR MITZVAH Penner’s 226-2487 Apple soda, Schwartz’s central Israeli city of Beit “Wherever he went, people 311 West Commerce (free parking in rear) favorite drink. Shemesh, was killed in a were attracted to him by his Schwartz, a student at shooting November 19 in the sweet demeanor.” BAR MITZVAH TRADITION Jonathan Pollard freed after 30 years (JTA) — Jonathan Pollard, adamantly opposed, saying States for as long as five the former Navy intelligence the breadth of his spying fully years under federal parole analyst convicted of spying merited his life sentence. rules, although he has asked for Israel, was freed from “The people of Israel to immigrate to Israel, saying a federal prison in North welcome the release of he would relinquish his U.S. Carolina. Jonathan Pollard,” Israeli citizenship and agree never to Pollard was released on Prime Minister Benjamin return to the United States as parole November 20 after Netanyahu said in a a condition. serving 30 years of a life statement. sentence for passing classified “As someone who raised documents to Israel. Jonathan’s case for years His imprisonment has long with successive American been a sore point in relations presidents, I had long hoped between the United States and this day would come,” he Israel. said. “After three long and Successive Israeli prime difficult decades, Jonathan ministers have raised the issue has been reunited with his in their meetings with U.S. family. May this Sabbath presidents. In recent years, bring him much joy and support in the U.S. political peace that will continue in the establishment has grown years and decades ahead.” for his release, although the Pollard will not be security community remained permitted to leave the United TEXANS KNOW STEAK. AND THEY NAMED US THE Jonathan Pollard, left, # 2 Steakhouse in the Whole Steak-Loving state. arrives at a federal courthouse in New Bohanan’s fame is founded on sublimely tender and succulent seafood flown in daily. We’re located York with his wife, prime beef grilled over fragrant mesquite wood. downtown, just a block from the River Walk. Imbibe Esther, to check in at Enjoy extraordinary Akaushi beef, Chef/Owner Mark a classic cocktail at the first-floor Bar at Bohanan’s, a probation office just Bohanan’s large custom cuts of aged corn-fed beef, then join us upstairs for the best steak you’ve ever had. hours after he was released from prison. (210) 472-2600 # 221 East Houston Street San Antonio, Texas www.bohanans.com (Ilana Gold/WCBS-TV via AP Images)
THE JEWISH JOURNAL A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio DECEMBER 2015 39 Rodfei Sholom 2016 Annual Fundraiser along with the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Presents Bridging the Latino Jewish Connection Honoring Secretary Henry Cisneros, Senator Leticia Van de Putte, Congressman Joaquin Castro and Diana Hagee
January 10, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. featuring Paul Begala Paul Begala is a commentator for CNN, where he is part of the political team that has won both an “Emmy” and a“Peabody Award”. In the 2012 campaign he was a senior adviser for the pro-Obama Super PAC, making Begala one of the few people to play a critical role in electing two different presidents. To purchase tickets or ads in the tribute book contact us at [email protected] or (210) 493-3557 Guest speaker has been underwritten by the Starr Family.
40 DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio THE JEWISH JOURNAL