A Traditional, Egalitarian, and Participatory Conservative Synagogue

TAMMUZ/AV/ELUL 5773 NEWSLETTER/VOLUME 25:6 JULY/AUGUST 2013 OZ’s Student Congregants Tour Israel Reflections and photos

After Pesah, four members of Or Zarua who rode with my classmate Adina, our com- are eighth graders at either the Solomon plaining about our sore legs gave us Schechter School of Manhattan or The another chance to make connections with SUMMER Abraham Joshua Heschel School traveled the other eighth graders. to Israel. In words and photos, each student TALMUD CLASS Congregant reflects on an aspect of his or Hiking in the Negev Jerusalem in the Talmud her Israel experience.—CHARLIE SPIELHOLZ by Jonathan Mack, Heschel School and Midrash: his past April, the eighth grade A Survey of Sources Riding Camels in the Negev at Heschel took a two-week trip Five Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. by Yael Rayport, Schechter Manhattan to Israel. We toured the country, starting in the south, traveling highlight of the Israel trip with his summer, Rabbi Bolton will to the north, and concluding in the Solomon Schechter School T be conducting a Talmud class Jerusalem. There were many memorable of Manhattan for me was riding entitled “Jerusalem in the experiences that I shared with my class- T the camels in the Negev. Talmud and Midrash: A Survey of mates, and we all felt a little more “bond- Before going on the trip, I knew Sources.” The class will meet on five A ed” by the end of the two-week journey. I would gain many new experiences, but Wednesdays—July 24 and 31, and One highlight that stood out for me riding the camels was a very memorable August 7, 14, and 21—at 7:30 p.m. was a two-day, two-night hike in Machtesh one. As we rode on their backs, we role- in the OZ library. As in the past, anyone Ramon. Located in the Negev, the played as if this were our only form of may join Or Zarua’s Talmud class at Machtesh is a crater formed by water ero- transportation, and we were able to get a any time; experience in Talmud study, sion. As a group, we started hiking from taste of a Bedouin’s life. Not only that, but Hebrew, or Aramaic is not necessary. it was also a great bonding opportunity one side of the crater. We walked and with the other kids on the trip! Although I continued on page 4 E ANSHCTRMANHA MANN/SCHECHTER BEN TISHA B’AV SERVICES

TT Erev Tisha B’Av AN Monday, July 15 8:00 p.m. Minhah/Ma’ariv Reading of Eikha

Tisha B’Av Tuesday, July 16 7:00 a.m. Shaharit 8:00 p.m. Minhah/Ma’ariv

Riding camels in the Negev 1 CONGREGATION OR ZARUA JULY/AUGUST 2013 President’s Message by Diane Okrent

his message is row. Many members have shared with me A CONSERVATIVE SYNAGOGUE adapted from how he has brought them comfort and my remarks at consolation at a time of illness or loss. FOUNDED 1989 the Annual Many have shared how happy they have 127 East 82nd Street TMeeting on been sharing their simchas with him. And New York, NY 10028 May 20, 2013. many have remarked at how quickly he has phone: 212-452-2310 fax: 212-452-2103 I thank the mem- become “our rabbi.” If you haven’t had a www.orzarua.org bership of Or Zarua for chance to meet with him one-on-one, make electing me to my third and final year as an appointment. You’ll be glad you did! SCOTT N. BOLTON, Rabbi president. I thank the founders of Or As I embark on my third year as Or DR. HARLAN J. WECHSLER, Rabbi Emeritus Zarua for their foresight in setting term Zarua’s president, my focus will be on limits so that no individual can hold an membership. While we have always prided DIANE OKRENT, President office for more than three consecutive ourselves in being an intimate community, HENRY GLANTERNIK, Treasurer years. It’s healthy for the individual and we have room to grow. We want to be small ILANA BURGESS, Youth Education Director for the Congregation. enough to know one another, but large So far, I’ve had an exciting presidency. enough to have robust programming and CHARLES SPIELHOLZ, Newsletter Editor I took office right after Rabbi Wechsler pay our bills. Right now, we have fewer than announced his retirement. Then, less than 300 member units. In this year, our 25th, I a month later, we learned that we needed would like to add 25 new member units. To OZ Committee Chairs to find a new venue for our High Holy Day that end, I have appointed a Membership services in a little more than two months. and Kehilla-Building Committee to attract ADMINISTRATION Sara Stone The focus of my first year was the new members, retain the members we ADULT EDUCATION Laura Resnikoff activities surrounding the rabbinic search. have, and integrate new members as they AESTHETICS Aaron Shelden Then, at last year’s Annual Meeting, we join OZ. The committee will plan events to made Or Zarua history by voting to hire attract new members and create opportuni- ART GALLERY Bobbi Coller Rabbi Scott Bolton to be our next rabbi. ties for community building.I invite you to BOOK DISCUSSION Reed Schneider This past year my concentration was join the committee, but every member of BUILDING Alan Ilberman on the transition—how to bring Rabbi Or Zarua is already an ambassador for the CEMETERY Aliza Kaplan Bolton into the OZ fold, ease the way for Congregation. If you are enjoying your OZ Mort Schwartz him and his family, and help the Congre- membership, tell your friends, tell your rela- DEVELOPMENT Andr ew Plevin gation to get to know him. His first year tives, and bring them into our tent. EDUCATION David Bergman has been more successful than any of us From 1987 to 1996, American AND YOUTH Dara Shapiro could have imagined a year ago. He really Express used the slogan, “Membership HESED Richard Stadin stepped up to the plate! has its privileges.”Well, being a member HEVRA KADISHA Vera Silver Rabbi Bolton has brought new energy of Or Zarua has its privileges, too. We are Gerry Solomon to all aspects of Or Zarua. Services are members of a unique community of learn- ISRAEL Aliza Kaplan lively and upbeat. Adults and children are ers and pray-ers who participate in Jewish LIBRARY Barry Feldman engaged and involved. Rabbi Bolton added religious and communal life together. MARKETING AND Mechele Flaum a new class on the Siddur that has been But membership also implies obliga- COMMUNICATIONS Dara Shapiro very well attended. With rabbis from five tion. We have the obligation to support the Aaron Shelden neighboring congregations, he also initiated good works of the community—educating MEMBERSHIP Betsey Dizengoff the East Side Torah Learning Coalition or ourselves and our children, providing for the AND KEHILLA BUILDING William Zaientz TLC. The initial offerings of the TLC were needs of our members and the surrounding MINYAN Sheldon Adler classes on Pirke Avot, traditionally studied community, maintaining our physical home, ORAL HISTORY Mimi Alperin between Pesah and Shavuot. They were and supporting our rabbi and staff. The bot- huge successes! There will be a TLC day tom line is that we need your participation PUBLIC RELATIONS Aaron Shelden of learning on Rosh Hodesh Elul (August and financial support for the work we do. READERS yMarc Ashle 6), and more community learning opportu- And we need to grow our membership so AND LEADERS Jay Palmer nities are planned for the coming year. that we can build on and enhance the won- WEBMASTER Jay Palmer Rabbi Bolton has engaged so many derful community that is Or Zarua. If you are interested in serving on a synagogue members of the community as he has I look forward to leading Or Zarua in committee, please contact the office for the reached out in times of gladness and sor- the year ahead. Have a great summer! committee chair’s email address. 2 WWW.ORZARUA.ORG JULY/AUGUST 2013 East Side Torah Learning Coalition Summer program in preparation for the High Holy Days, August 6 at 1 p.m. and 8 p.m.

n May 30, the East Side Torah The TLC is a coalition of synagogues through engaging Torah study. Join us for Learning Coalition (TLC) com- that together create unity—achdut— these events! pleted its seventh session on Pirke Avot with Mordechai SPIELHOLZ CHARLIE ORosenstein discussing “The Art and Illumination of Pirke Avot.” You are invited to join the TLC this summer as it expands its rabbinical and congregational participation. On Tuesday, August 6, Rosh Hodesh Elul, two learning opportunities will be offered to prepare us for the High Holy Days: G At 1 p.m. at Or Olam–The East 55th Street Synagogue, Cantor Lori A. Corrsin (Temple Emanu-El), and Rabbis David Gelfand (Temple Israel, NYC), and David Kalb (Central Synagogue), will discuss “The Shofar: Music to the Ears or a Wake-Up Call for Sinners?” with Rabbi Ephraim Pelcovits (Or Olam) moderating. G At 8 p.m. at Or Zarua, Rabbis Rachel Ain (Sutton Place), Benjamin Mordechai Rosenstein presented “The Art and Illumination of Pirke Avot” for the Skydell (Orach Chaim), and Jonathan Stein seventh session of the Torah Learning Coalition. He is pictured above with the six rabbis (Shaaray Tefila) will discuss “Apples, who have participated in the TLC Pirke Avot program. From left, Rachel Ain (Sutton Honey and Sins: Does God Love Us or Place), Scott Bolton (Or Zarua), Ephraim Pelcovits (Or Olam–East 55th Street), Judge Us on the High Holidays?” with Mordechai Rosenstein, Jonathan Stein (Shaaray Tefila), Elie Weinstock (Kehilath Rabbi Scott Bolton (Or Zarua) moderating. Jeshurun), and Elliot Cosgrove (Park Avenue). HRI SPIELHOLZ CHARLIE EDITOR’S NOTE High Holy Days and Festivals of Tishri

raditionally, the Or Zarua Newsletter carries scheduling information Tand other details regarding Selihot, the High Holy Days, Sukkot, Shemini Azteret, and Simhat Torah in the September/October edition. This year, however, the High Holy Days fall in early September, making it necessary to publish relevant information in the July/August issue. Since Sukkot begins in the middle of September, informa- tion regarding the Festival days will appear in the September/October issue. High Holy Day information will , SUNDAY, JUNE 2. Approximately 60 Congregants and OZ be reprinted in the September/October Youth had a great time marching along on a beautiful day to show their Newsletter. Thank you for your under- support of Israel. White parade caps emblazoned with our shul’s name are available for standing. —-CHARLIE SPIELHOLZ an $18 donation. Call the office at 212-452-2310, extension 12, to obtain one.

3 CONGREGATION OR ZARUA JULY/AUGUST 2013 OZ’s Day School Students Tour Israel continued from page 1

climbed our way across the bottom to the MANHA MANN/SCHECHTER BEN other side and then climbed to the top of the crater. Looking back, we saw in the distance, miles and miles away, the little speck that was the place we had set off from. It was a very rewarding experience. TT

Before we set off on that hike, we AN davened together. We prayed, looking out over the vast crater we were about to cross. As the sun rose, we slowly warmed up from the evening chill of the desert. I remember the chill because I had to pull my sweatshirt sleeves over my leather- bound left arm to stay warm. As we prayed about God’s beautiful works of creation, we saw one ourselves. More than just an opportunity to Yom Ha’atzmaut festivities spend time with our friends, the trip helped us all connect to our Jewish roots in Israel, studies, and as a visitor from America more than we ever could have imagined. falling in love with Israel.

OAHNMA JONATHAN The highlight of the evening celebra- tion of Yom Ha’atzmaut was spending time with new and old friends. The old friends CK were my classmates for the past three This celebration was in stark contrast years, and the new friends were the other to Yom Hazikaron, which took place students who were traveling with us and starting the night before and continued Israelis we met during the festivities. into the start of Yom Ha’atzmaut. Yom We walked on Ben Yehuda Street, a Hazikaron is similar to our Memorial Day, cobblestone street closed to cars with a national remembrance day observed in stores lining each side of the street. Hiking in the Negev Israel for those who fought for Israel and There were festivities everywhere. There lost their lives from the days before the was Israeli music, dancing, candy vendors, founding of Israel and thereafter. There From Yom Hazikaron to and booths selling all sorts of celebratory was one siren that sounded at 8:00 the items, such as blue-and-white blow-up Yom Ha’atzmaut night of Yom Hazikaron and another siren hammers. Most impressive were all of the by Chloe Sahn, Schechter Manhattan at 11:00 the following morning. When the spray cans of white foam. People were sirens sound, people stop what they are or the past three years, I have spraying each other everywhere—on our doing, cars and buses stop, and people had the absolute pleasure of clothes, in our hair. There were also fire- get out of their cars. That morning during attending Solomon Schechter works popping up all over the place. We the second siren, we were on a hike in the School of Manhattan for middle ate crepes and ice cream that were so hills outside of Jerusalem, and during the school. My school trip to Israel delicious and so freshly made, ice cream F hike, we saw an Israeli military plane was the culmination of my studies and never tasted so good. We also met so almost eye level to us. learning experience at Schechter. And my many Israeli teens, and we spoke Hebrew, Reflecting on these two particular celebration of Yom Ha’atzmaut in and even though we were from different days during my visit to Israel made me Jerusalem was the most memorable part countries, we really connected with each very aware of how magnificent a place of the trip among many great memories of other. It was truly magical. Israel is, and how Israel came at a price my time in Israel. Celebrating Yom Ha’atzmaut for the first of people giving their lives for the idea of This was my first time visiting Israel. time in Israel was amazing. I had the experi- a Jewish homeland. Celebrating the founding of the State of ence of celebrating this important holiday as Celebrating Yom Ha’atzmaut for the Israel in Jerusalem brought into sharp if I had been living in Israel all my life. It first time in Israel was amazing. I had the focus my understanding of my heritage, as made me feel more connected to Israel, and experience of celebrating this important a Jew, as a student of Hebrew and Jewish I felt part of something bigger as a Jew.

4 WWW.ORZARUA.ORG JULY/AUGUST 2013 Israel Tour Rabbi’s Reflections continued from page 4 by Rabbi Scott N. Bolton holiday like an Israeli. It made me feel llow me to us, please join me for a five-session class more connected to Israel. I felt part of thank you— on “Jerusalem in the Talmud and Midrash: something bigger as a Jew. The songs so many of A Survey of Sources,” starting on Wednes- sung in Hebrew made me realize that I you—who day evening, July 24, at 7:30 p.m. Then on was not only in Israel, but in the Holy Ahave wel- Tuesday, August 6, Rosh Hodesh Elul, the Land. I cannot wait until I return to Israel comed my family and Torah Learning Coalition will offer two pan- and spend more time with my new friends me to the Or Zarua els concerning spiritual preparation for the and my new home away from home. community. We have High Holy Days. The first is on “The Shofar: shared simchas and tzarot (happy times Music to the Ears or a Wake-Up Call for Experiencing a National and sad times), and have found strength Sinners?” at 1 p.m. at Or Olam–The East Transition in a Day through our traditions, frameworks, and 55th Street Synagogue. The evening panel responses. During illness, we have drawn will be held at Or Zarua, at 8:00 p.m., on by Eliana Weinstein, Schechter Manhattan strength from spiritual wells, and during the topic “Apples, Honey and Sins: Does classes, we have gained wisdom from our God Love Us or Judge Us on the High his April, I traveled to Israel for holy sources. Holidays?” (see page 3 for details). two weeks with my eighth-grade Prayerful mornings at our daily minyan Finally, if we have not had a chance class at Solomon Schechter. help me start each day with inspiration, to meet one another, let us do so. I would There were many powerful experi- while Shabbat services have continued to very much enjoy getting to know you. I ences, but one that stands out T inspire. Our programming, which centers invite you to call my assistant, Deborah was the transition between Yom Hazikaron on Israel and intellectual and artful pur- Wenger, at 212-452-2310, extension 12, (Israel’s Memorial Day) and Yom Ha’atzmaut suits, helps me feel whole. We have much and make an appointment. I encourage (Israel’s Independence Day). On Yom to celebrate as a community, and with the everyone to connect with any one or a Hazikaron, we remember the soldiers who dedication of our board officers, commit- number of our programs and ongoing ser- died protecting Israel. It is a very emotional tee chairs, and programming groups, we vices, so that we can continue the sacred and personal day for Israelis because every- will create even more opportunities to be work and community of learning to which one seems to know someone who per- engaged this coming year. we are dedicated. ished. We visited Har Herzl, where everyone Before the High Holy Days come upon L’shalom! in the armed services who dies in the line of duty gets buried, as well as dignitaries such as Golda Meir. It was moving to see families visiting the graves of loved ones who died. This again made all of us there feel connected to one another. LIFE EVENTS AT OR ZARUA Afterwards, we hiked in the Judean community such as ours shares good times and bad with its members. Mountains. While hiking, we heard the When something good happens in your family—birth, graduation, engagement, long siren and immediately stopped mov- or marriage—let us share your joy. When something bad happens—illness, ing, talking, or laughing. When the siren A hospitalization, or a death in your family—let us share your burden. blows, people stop what they are doing to Sometimes people are reluctant to communicate these issues on their own. pay their respects. We watched off the If you know of a member who is coping with illness or loss, please contact the side of the mountain as people stopped OZ office at 212-452-2310, extension 12, so that Rabbi Bolton can be informed. their cars and got out of them. This was one of the pivotal moments of my trip. I felt connected to the entire state of Israel. Later in the evening, we celebrated Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israel’s Independence Day). We partied on Ben Yehuda Street— OR ZARUA ORAL HISTORY PROJECT laughing, dancing, and spraying foam on one another and complete strangers in cel- he Oral History committee, chaired by Mimi Alperin, continues to collect materials, ebration. It amazed me how quickly Israelis Tsuch as memories and artifacts, from the early days of Congregation Or Zarua. were able to transition from solemnness to If you have a submission for the Oral History Project, please contact Caroline Golden happiness. Both moments made me feel at [email protected] or Gerry Solomon at [email protected]. Questions connected to Israel. I will always remember should be directed to Meredith Katz at [email protected]. these moving experiences.

5 CONGREGATION OR ZARUA JULY/AUGUST 2013

HIGH HOLY DAY High Holy Days 5774/2013 SERVICES 5774/2013 Information regarding tickets, service schedules, and locations

Wednesday, September 4 or our High Teenagers are encouraged to attend the Erev Rosh Hashanah Holy Day main service. Please review the High Holy Evening 6:15 p.m.–7:15 p.m. services, we Day schedules, shown on pages 6 and 7, Congregation Or Zarua will again use for all service times and locations. Wallace Hall, The Family Learning Experience, led Thursday, September 5 F located on the lower by Rabbi Amy Bolton, is designed for the First Day Rosh Hashanah level of St. Ignatius entire family: children of all ages and their Morning 8:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Loyola Church, on the parents. The Family Learning Experience Wallace Hall west side of Park Avenue between 83rd is not a drop-off service for children. It will and 84th Streets. Last year, we found that be held at Or Zarua on East 82nd Street Tashlikh 6:00 p.m.–6:30 p.m. Wallace Hall held all of us comfortably, on the second day of Rosh Hashanah and , south end of Reservoir with a central bimah and unassigned seat- on Yom Kippur from 10:45 a.m. to 12:45 Evening 7:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. ing on three sides. Wallace Hall is also p.m. Grandparents are also invited. Times Congregation Or Zarua conveniently located close to our building and locations are shown on the schedule on East 82nd Street. on page 7. Friday, September 6 This year, Or Zarua will be offering The schedule for all main services for Second Day Rosh Hashanah three types of services for the High Holy the High Holy Days will be printed on the Morning 8:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Days: our main service, led by Rabbi Scott reverse side of your tickets. Remember to Wallace Hall Bolton; children’s services, divided by age; bring your ticket with you to all services. and a Family Learning Experience, led by Membership bills have been mailed Minhah/ 6:15 p.m.–7:15 p.m. Rabbi Amy Bolton. One set of children’s to each household. Tickets will be mailed Kabbalat Shabbat services is for children ages 2–6, and the to all members in good standing in August. Congregation Or Zarua other is for ages 7–12. Children’s services Please call the synagogue office with will be held on both days of Rosh questions regarding your membership. Saturday, September 7 Hashanah and on Yom Kippur. There will Note that all children through the age of Shabbat Shuvah also be a children’s service on Kol Nidre 22 are included in family membership; Shaharit 9:00 a.m. for children ages 5–12. Please note that children ages 23 and above are required Congregation Or Zarua children ages 2–4 years old must be to have guest tickets. To purchase guest accompanied by no more than one parent. tickets, please call the synagogue office. Friday, September 13 Erev Yom Kippur Minhah 1:30 p.m.–1:55 p.m. ADDITIONAL HIGH HOLY DAY TICKETS Congregation Or Zarua Guest tickets for all High Holy Day services are $360 each for ages 13 and up, Kol Nidre 6:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m. and $180 for ages 5-12. To order, contact Luisa Paulino at [email protected] Wallace Hall or 212-452-2310, extension 10.

Saturday, September 14 LN BURGESS ILANA

Yom Kippur/Yizkor Services 9:00 a.m.–7:57 p.m. Wallace Hall

G Service Locations G Congregation Or Zarua 127 East 82nd Street between Lexington and Park Avenues

Wallace Hall on west side of Park Avenue CONGREGATION OR ZARUA BID FAREWELL in June to Harvey Brenner (right center), between 83rd and 84th Streets who had been our executive director since 2009. Hebrew School students honored Tickets are required for all services. him with cards, words, and songs. We all wish Harvey good health and good fortune. Thank you, Harvey!

6 WWW.ORZARUA.ORG JULY/AUGUST 2013

Rabbi Silber at OZ on Pesah OR ZARUA YOUTH A change from High Holy Day tradition HIGH HOLY DAY SERVICES 5774/2013

ach year Holy Days, and for a good reason. His Rosh Hashanah G Choice of Services during the book, A Passover Haggadah: Go Forth and Children’s Services Days of Awe, Learn, has recently been published. This Thursday, September 5 (First Day) Rabbi Silber, Haggadah presents Rabbi Silber’s com- Friday, September 6 (Second Day) Efounder mentary and a collection of essays that 10:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m. and dean of the Drisha discuss biblical and rabbinic texts related Wallace Hall Institute for Jewish to the ritual and narration of the Passover Two groups: Ages 2–6 and ages 7–12 Education studies for Seder. Children ages 2–4 must be accompanied women, has led a study session for The March/April edition of the OZ by no more than one parent. Congregation Or Zarua. This year, we will Newsletter wil contain all the details about Family Learning Experience be breaking tradition. Rabbi Silber will be Rabbi Silber’s Pesah presentation. We with Rabbi Amy Bolton joining us for Pesah instead of the High look forward to seeing everyone there! Friday, September 6 (Second Day) 10:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m. Congregation Or Zarua For children of all ages and their Selihot Study Session parents. Grandparents welcome. “Seeking a Conception of the Jewish Soul: Coming Closer Kol Nidre to the High Holy Day Liturgy” Friday, September 13 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Ages 5–12: Wallace Hall uring the Selihot service and ceived of what a Jewish soul is made of Post–Bar/Bat Mitzvah: Wallace Hall Kol Nidre, we say “The Soul is and the whereabouts of her source. In (main service) Yours, God, and the Body Your this shiur before the Selihot service, we Servant.” Throughout the will study sources that deal with how the Yom Kippur G Choice of Services liturgy of Selihot and the High High Holy Day liturgy presents the Jewish D Children’s Services Holy Days, we encounter poetry and soul, discuss various conceptions of the Saturday, September 14 prayers that concern our souls. Over the soul, and touch upon how developing 10:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m. ages, various Jewish thinkers and sages, those understandings can enhance our Wallace Hall from mystics to rationalists, have con- prayer experiences. Two groups: Ages 2–6 and ages 7–12 Children ages 2–4 must be accompanied SELIHOT, SATURDAY, AUGUST 31 by no more than one parent. Family Learning Experience with Rabbi Amy Bolton 8:30 p.m. Dessert Reception Saturday, September 14 Join us for an evening of community as we usher in the Days of Awe with 10:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m. a dessert reception. Congregation Or Zarua 9:15 p.m. Study Session For children of all ages and their parents. Grandparents welcome. Rabbi Bolton will address the topic “Seeking a Conception of the Jewish Soul: Coming Closer to the High Holy Day Liturgy” G Service Locations G 10:00 p.m. Selihot Services Congregation Or Zarua 127 East 82nd Street between Lexington and Park Avenues Wallace Hall CALL FOR SHOFAR BLOWERS on west side of Park Avenue between 83rd and 84th Streets Or Zarua needs shofar blowers for each morning minyan during the month of Elul through Wednesday, September 4. If you would like to learn to blow the shofar, Or Tickets are required for all services. Zarua will teach you. If you can play a brass or woodwind instrument, you have a All children should attend youth services. great start. If not, blowing the shofar is easy to learn. Please contact Richard Stadin Teenagers in 9th grade and above are at [email protected] or 212-879-0448. encouraged to attend the main service.

7 127 East 82nd Street G New York, NY 10028 G 212-452-2310 July 2013 Tammuz/Av 5773

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 G 23 Tammuz 2 G 24 3 G 25 4 G 26 5 G 27 6 G 28 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan Independence Day 7:15 am Minyan 9:00 am Shaharit No Talmud Class 8:45 am Minyan 6:45 pm Minhah/Kabbalat Mattot/Masei Office closed Shabbat 9:18 pm Shabbat ends 8:13 pm Candlelighting Office closed

7 G 29 8 G 1 Av 9 G 2 10 G 3 11 G 4 12 G 5 13 G 6 8:45 am Minyan Rosh Hodesh Av 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan Shabbat Hazon 7:00 am Minyan No Talmud Class 6:45 pm Minhah/Kabbalat 9:00 am Shaharit Shabbat Devarim 8:10 pm Candlelighting 9:15 pm Shabbat ends

14 G 7 15 G 8 16 G 9 17 G 10 18 G 11 19 G 12 20 G 13 8:45 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan Tisha B’Av Fast Day 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan Shabbat Nahamu Erev Tisha B’Av 7:00 am Shaharit No Talmud Class 6:45 pm Minhah/Kabbalat 9:00 am Shaharit 8:00 pm Minhah/Ma’ariv 8:00 pm Minhah/Ma’ariv Shabbat Vaethanan Reading of Eikha 8:06 pm Candlelighting 9:12 pm Shabbat ends

21 G 14 22 G 15 23 G 16 24 G 17 25 G 18 26 G 19 27 G 20 8:45 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 9:00 am Shaharit 7:30 pm Bir’nana 7:30 pm Summer Talmud 6:45 pm Minhah/Kabbalat Ekev Rehearsal Class Shabbat 9:05 pm Shabbat ends 8:00 pm Candlelighting

28 G 21 29 G 22 30 G 23 31 G 24 8:45 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:30 pm Bir’nana 7:30 pm Summer Talmud Rehearsal Class 127 East 82nd Street G New York, NY 10028 G 212-452-2310 August 2013 Av/Elul 5773

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 G 25 Av 2 G 26 3 G 27 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 9:00 am Shaharit 6:30 pm Minhah/Kabbalat Re’eh Shabbat 8:58 pm Shabbat ends 7:53 pm Candlelighting

4 G 28 5 G 29 6 G 30 7 G 1 Elul 8 G 2 9 G 3 10 G 4 8:45 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan Rosh Hodesh Elul Rosh Hodesh Elul 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 9:00 am Shaharit 7:30 pm Bir’nana 7:00 am Minyan 7:00 am Minyan 6:30 pm Minhah/Kabbalat Shoftim Rehearsal 1:00 p.m. TLC Panel 7:30 pm Summer Talmud Shabbat 8:50 pm Shabbat ends Discussion at Or Olam Class 7:45 pm Candlelighting 8:00 p.m. TLC Panel Discussion at OZ

11 G 5 12 G 6 13 G 7 14 G 8 15 G 9 16 G 10 17 G 11 8:45 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 9:00 am Shaharit 7:30 pm Bir’nana 7:30 pm Summer Talmud 6:30 pm Minhah/Kabbalat Ki Tetze Rehearsal Class Shabbat 8:41 pm Shabbat ends 7:36 pm Candlelighting

18 G 12 19 G 13 20 G 14 21 G 15 22 G 16 23 G 17 24 G 18 8:45 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 9:00 am Shaharit 7:30 pm Bir’nana 7:30 pm Summer Talmud 6:30 pm Minhah/Kabbalat Ki Tavo Rehearsal Class Shabbat 8:31 pm Shabbat ends 7:26 pm Candlelighting

25 G 19 26 G 20 27 G 21 28 G 22 29 G 23 30 G 24 31 G 25 8:45 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 9:00 am Shaharit 6:30 pm Minhah/Kabbalat Nitzavim/Vayelech Shabbat 8:20 pm Shabbat ends 7:15 pm Candlelighting 8:30 pm Dessert Reception 9:15 pm Study with Rabbi 10:00 Selihot Services CONGREGATION OR ZARUA JULY/AUGUST 2013 Talmud and Siddur Classes EDITOR’S NOTE Summer Talmud Class, five Wednesdays in July and August o you have an idea or article

that is suitable for publication bout 20 Siddur class students SPIELHOLZ CHARLIE Din the OZ Newsletter? If so, and 35 Talmud class students please contact Charlie Spielholz at have wrapped up another year [email protected]. All copy for the of learning. At the end of the September/October 2013 issue should year, Talmud class students be received by Monday, August 5. A treat themselves to halvah, served by Rabbis Bolton and Wechsler. This summer, Or Zarua will be offering a five-session Talmud class, led by Rabbi Bolton, entitled “Jerusalem in the Talmud and Midrash: A Survey of Sources.” The class will meet Bir’nana at 7:30 p.m. in the OZ library on July 24 OZ’s a cappella group and 31, and August 7, 14, and 21. To participate, you just need to show up; prior experience with or knowledge of usic and singing have Talmud study, Hebrew, or Aramaic is not always been central to the required. And, of course, Talmud and Or Zarua experience. Our Siddur classes will resume meeting on Rabbi Bolton (left) and Rabbi Wechsler lay-led prayer services are Wednesday evenings and Thursday preparing to serve halvah in celebration nurtured by old and new mornings, respectively, after the holidays of a year of Talmud study. M of Tishri. liturgical melodies. The singing of zemirot and Israeli tunes accompanies our com- munal meals and celebrations. Musicality workshops have filled our calendar for the last several years. Concerts have exalted our acoustically blessed sanctuary. And now we have a new singing phenomenon in our midst—Or Zarua’s first a cappella group, newly named Bir’nana! The apt name Bir’nana (“with joyous singing”) comes from a well-known verse in Psalm 100: “Worship the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyous singing.” The joy that attends the singing Members of the Siddur class with Rabbi Bolton (center) of Jewish music epitomizes the spirit and purpose of our a cappella group. A core of Congregants committed to the vibrancy of Jewish music has gathered to learn classical and contemporary Jewish songs, first to sing happily with each other, and then over time to share their efforts with fellow Congregants. Bir’nana eventually will perform at—and enhance—selected Congregational events throughout the year. Our hope is that our infectious enthu- siasm for joyous Jewish song will inspire and entertain you, bringing newfound ruah to our communal celebrations. If you are interested in joining us, please contact Marc Ashley at [email protected]. —MARC ASHLEY Rabbi Wechsler (left) and Rabbi Bolton (third from right) with Talmud class members

10 WWW.ORZARUA.ORG JULY/AUGUST 2013 Newly Elected Or Zarua Board Members Installed at the Annual Meeting

Marc Ashley member of Schechter Manhattan’s develop- years, he has ridden in the ALYN of Love ment committee and of the Friends of Bard Bike Ride with his grandson Mickey in arc happily rejoins the Board after High School Early College. Laurie also Israel. prior service, including as a mem- enjoys helping with children and youth pro- Mber of the Executive Committee. gramming at Congregation Or Zarua. S. David Moche He and his wife, Joanne, discovered Or Laurie is married to Alan Yaillen, a Zarua in 1990, only a few months after financial analyst for the Cardiothoracic orn and raised in Kobe, Japan, the shul began holding weekly services. Surgery Department at Weill Cornell David received a B.A. from Yeshiva Or Zarua has been a beloved focal point Medical College. Their 18-year-old daughter, BUniversity, and an M.B.A. from the of the life of their family ever since. A year Aliza, is an alumna of Schechter University of Pittsburgh. He has lived and after joining, Marc and Joanne were mar- Manhattan and a recent graduate of Bard worked in Japan, Europe, the Middle East, ried by Rabbi Wechsler, with many Or High School Early College. Next year, Aliza and the United States, and is fluent in Zarua friends in attendance, in what was will be attending the Nativ program in four languages. Since 1975, David has perhaps the shul’s first communal wed- Israel and will continue her studies at the held a variety of positions, ranging from ding. Their three children, Josh, Rebecca, University of Massachusetts in Amherst. CPA, tax supervisor, trading advisor, senior and Benji, each celebrated becoming a vice president, and CEO with a number of Bar or Bat Mitzvah at Or Zarua. Marc has Edward Kopelowitz financial institutions, including Touche expressed his love of Jewish music and Ross & Co., Republic National Bank, liturgy by reading Torah and leading d has been a member of Or Zarua Dai-Ichi Kangyo Bank, Bank HaSapanut, services throughout the year, co-chairing for seven years. A graduate of Sumitomo Corporation of America, and the Readers & Leaders Committee, and EBoston University, he has been a Cornwall Partners. He has established helping launch the shul’s a cappella board member of several Jewish institu- hedge funds; managed his family’s 50- group. Following up on his graduate work tions, including Temple Beth El year-old import-export business, based in in Jewish studies, Marc also teaches an (Cedarhurst); Congregation Ahavat Israel Kobe, Japan; and invested in early-stage annual spring adult education course on (Hewlett), where he was also a founding Israeli high-tech startups. He founded issues of classical Jewish thought. Marc member; and a Solomon Schechter Blue Granite Partners, a real estate invest- is a litigator at Chadbourne & Parke LLP. School (Brandeis School, Lawrence), ment company, and Venturegeeks Ltd., an where he also served as board president. accelerator, to continue investing in and Laurie R. Dien Ed formerly worked in the textile nurturing high-tech entrepreneurs. machinery business as well as the yarn David lives in and aurie grew up in St. Louis with business. Presently, he manages real Cornwall, CT, with his wife, Nancy, and dreams first of designing toys and estate in Brooklyn and Queens with his daughters, Elsie and Ma’yan. He is active Llater entire playgrounds. After earning wife, Susan. in community affairs and sits on the a B.A. from Barnard and a Ph.D. in envi- Ed and Susan have three daughters boards of several religious, cultural, edu- ronmental psychology from CUNY, she real- and 11 grandchildren. For the past four cational, and art foundations. ized that her true motivation was a desire to improve the lives of young people in general. That led her to the Hasbro Children’s Foundation and, ultimately, to OROT FOR THE HIGH HOLY DAYS The Pinkerton Foundation, where she Call for articles, poems and reflections has been a senior program officer since lease submit reflective, creative, or scholarly pieces that would be appropriate for 1997. Laurie also serves on the steering PHigh Holy Day publication of Orot. Although the range of topics is broad, I would committees of the New York City Youth like to invite Congregants to reflect on these questions: Funders and the New York City Workforce 1. What do we learn from the Akeidah? Funders. 2. Why are there both public and private aspects of religious expression? Laurie’s volunteer activities have large- What should be kept private? What should be made public? ly been associated with her daughter Aliza’s 3. Is there a particular part of the High Holy Day liturgy or celebration that activities, beginning as an active parent speaks the most to you? committee member at the Seton Daycare Please write to me at [email protected] if you would like an editorial devel- and Preschool, then president of the opment meeting, so that we can create a rich collection of material for and with one Parents’ Association at Solomon Schechter another for this upcoming High Holy Day season. School of Manhattan, followed by a stint on —Rabbi Scott N. Bolton its board of trustees. Currently, she is a

11 CONGREGATION OR ZARUA JULY/AUGUST 2013

Hesed Events and Programs RABBI WECHSLER “The world exists for the sake of kindness.”—Rashi TEACHES ON SIRIUS XM RADIO Salvation Deliverance Church and good cheer to men and women with G “Pre-owned” adult and children’s clothing, a range of mental health and addiction Sundays at 5:00 a.m, toys, dolls, games, and related items can issues at the Neighborhood Coalition 7:00 a.m., and 12:00 p.m.

be put to good use by the many transitional Shelter’s East 81st Street Residence on SIRIU S homeless residents in the South Bronx, the last two Mondays of each month from XM including single, jobless mothers and their 6:00 to 6:45 p.m., when the residents’ children, as well as unemployed men. OZ government checks are depleted. partners with Salvation Deliverance Church, Ronald McDonald House whose members are housekeepers caring G Children come from across the U.S. and for their own local needy. around the world to undergo serious med- Butterfly and Hummingbird Garden ical treatment at New York City hospitals. G “Green thumbs” are needed from spring Many reside with their families at Ronald through fall to help care for Ronald McDonald House and have no local sup- McDonald House’s 7th Floor Terrace port system of friends or relatives. The abbi Wechsler can be heard on Butterfly and Hummingbird Garden. chaplain at Ronald McDonald House alerts RSiriusXM Stars Channel three times us when OZ may be of service to Jewish each Sunday. Subscribers to SiriusXM Home Visit Volunteers families who may require kosher meals, Satellite Radio can access “Rabbi G Volunteer to visit and cheer ill or home- synagogue services, and other assistance. Wechsler Teaches” on Channel 107. bound Or Zarua Congregants. Nonsubscribers can obtain a free, To participate in any of these hesed three-day trial at www.siriusxm.com. Monday Night Pasta and Salad at NCS programs, please contact Richard Stadin G Or Zarua Congregants serve hot food at [email protected] or 212-879-0448.

TORAH READERS Or Zarua’s Hebrew School NEEDED by Ilana Burgess, OZ Youth Education Director f you are able to read Torah or haf- tarah and would like to do so on a s I celebrate the completion of S’derot, Israel, producing a talent show IShabbat, please contact Marc Ashley 10 years as Youth Education (which benefits that school), Shabbat at [email protected] or Jay Director at Or Zarua, I want to Hayeled, youth groups, the PJ Library, and Palmer at [email protected]. You may take a moment to reflect upon the Holocaust Memorial Service. also sign up online at www.orzarua.org our Hebrew School. The future of the Jewish people is its by choosing “Read Torah” under the A “Prayer” drop-down menu. Or Zarua’s Hebrew School provides stu- children; a price cannot be placed on that. dents with a strong academic environment We will continue with our mission, but we offering individual attention. We encourage need the support of the whole community the kids to think, to analyze, and to form by visiting, participating, and being part of their own opinions. We challenge them to OZ Hebrew School life. YOUTH EDUCATION DEPARTMENT be individuals and leaders, not followers. The past 10 years have been wonder- We emphasize the uniqueness of our ful. I have made many friends and enjoyed Jewish heritage and guide them to become meeting all these remarkable September 2013 knowledgeable and proud Jews. We are children. I look forward to meeting more Mon 9 First day of school able to do this because the school is small. friends and children in coming years. Sat 21 Sukkah Overnight New programs that started in the last If you have questions about the Sun 22 PJ Library 10 years include Sukkah overnights, family OZ Hebrew School or Youth Education Other events and the complete Hebrew class dinners, cooking for the homeless programs, contact me at 212-452-2310, school schedule will be published in at B’nai Jeshurun, adopting a school in extension 15, or [email protected]. the Youth Education Calendar and the September/October issue of the OZ MINYAN Contact Sheldon Adler at [email protected] or choose “Daily Minyan” Or Zarua Newsletter. under the “Prayer” menu on www.orzarua.org to sign up for a day or two each month.

12 WWW.ORZARUA.ORG JULY/AUGUST 2013 Or Zarua Book Discussions BRENNER HARVEY The Age of Insight by Eric Kandel, Sunday, October 20, 7:30 p.m.

enowned Nobel tion and nonfiction on topics Prize–winning scien- of interest or concern to the tist Eric Kandel will American Jewish community. lead our discussion Becoming a book group mem- Rof his book, The Age ber is also a wonderful way to of Insight, on Sunday, October make friends with Congregants. 20, at 7:30 p.m. in the OZ If you would like more library. information on Or Zarua book Have you read a good discussions or have a book Jewish book lately? Joining Or suggestion, please contact A view of the Or Zarua cemetery section. Zarua’s book discussions is a Deborah Wenger at great way to read notable fic- [email protected]. OZ Cemetery Gravesites for members

WELCOMING GUESTS AT he Or Zarua section of Beth El CONGREGATION OR ZARUA Cemetery is located in Washington TTownship (Bergen County), New s a community, it is important for us to make guests and new members at our Jersey, just 10 miles away from the George services and kiddushim feel comfortable and welcome. If you are seated next Washington Bridge. Beth El Cemetery is Ato someone whom you do not know or see a new face at kiddush, please reach well maintained and landscaped with out and introduce yourself. Making this effort is consistent with our culture and will trees and shrubs. The cemetery’s design repay dividends. provides a serene and beautiful final resting place that reflects the values and aesthetics of Congregation Or Zarua. HRI SPIELHOLZ CHARLIE Gravesites within the Or Zarua section are available for sale solely to members of our Congregation. Burial is limited to per- sons of the Jewish faith. For information concerning gravesite purchases, please contact the synagogue office at 212-452- 2310, extension 14.

CONGREGATION OR ZARUA OFFICE HOURS Monday through Thursday 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Friday 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. “TODAYI AM: JEWISH COMING-OF-AGE RITUALS,” the current exhibit in the OZ Gallery, The Or Zarua office is closed Saturday opened to a crowd of nearly 100 guests on June 6. The exhibit examines origins and and Sunday, as well as on Jewish and practices of Bar and Bat Mitzvah ceremonies and celebrations. Guests were treated to federal holidays. chopped liver and an ice sculpture, and heard Bar and Bat Mitzvah stories under a canopy of 75 kippot. 13 CONGREGATION OR ZARUA 127 East 82nd Street New York, NY 10028-0807

CONGREGATION OR ZARUA JULY/AUGUST 2013 July/August Checklist

G Tisha B’Av begins Monday night, July 15. The schedule of G All Congregants should have received membership renewal services appears on page 1. information in the mail. Please contact the Or Zarua office G Summer Talmud Class, “Jerusalem in the Talmud and Midrash: (212-452-2310) with any questions that you may have. A Survey of Sources,” begins on Wednesday night, July 24. G Lulav and etrog orders will be placed in late August. Information Details on pages 1 and 10. will be mailed to Congregants. Additional information regarding G Bir’nana, OZ’s a capella group, will be meeting on Sundays, July Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret and Simhat Torah will appear in the 21 and 28, and August 4, 11, and 18. Learn about Bir’nana and September/October issue of the OZ Newsletter. how to participate on page 10. G Shofar blowers are needed for the month of Elul. Lessons are G East Side Torah Learning Coalition will be offering two programs available for those who are not experienced. Contact Richard in anticipation of the High Holy Days on Tuesday, August 6, Rosh Stadin as noted on page 7. Hodesh Elul. See page 3 for times and topics. G High Holy Days begin on September 4. Service schedules, G Selihot Study Session, “Seeking a Conception of the Jewish locations, and other information are on pages 6 and 7. Soul: Coming Closer to the High Holy Day Liturgy,” will be held G If you wish to submit material for Orot, please contact Rabbi on Saturday night, August 31, following a dessert reception and Bolton (see page 11). preceding Selihot services. See schedule on page 7. G The next Or Zarua Book Discussion will be Sunday, October 20, G Registration is underway for Or Zarua’s Hebrew School. For at 7:30 p.m. Nobel Prize-winning neuroscientist Eric Kandel will information about the school or other youth activities, please discuss his book The Age of Insight (see page 13). contact Ilana Burgess at [email protected]. G Help out with a Hesed Program (see page 12).

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