December 2007 November 2006Kislev/Tevet 5768 Heshvan/ 5767

2200 Baltimore Road • Rockville, Maryland 20851 www.tikvatisrael.org Volume 1 • Number 10 Adult Education Committee Offers Something for Everyone Weekly Religious Services

The Adult Education Committee has been hard at work planning diverse and interesting Monday ...... 6:45 a.m...... 7:30 p.m. programs, as described below, for our members. Advance registration for all events is strongly Tuesday ...... 7:30 p.m. requested so that they can plan accordingly. Please help make these events as successful as Wednesday...... 7:30 p.m. possible by letting the coordinators know in advance that you plan to attend. Thursday ...... 6:45 a.m...... 7:30 p.m. Friday ...... 6:45 a.m...... Discussion Group on the Chumash Essays The Adult Education Committee is starting a group to read and discuss the essays in our Kabbalat Shabbat ...... 6:30 p.m. Chumash, Etz Hayim. The first meeting will take place on Sunday, December 23 at 10 a.m. in Shabbat...... 9:30 a.m...... room 11. The essay we will read and discuss is titled “Biblical Archaeology,” and can be found Sunday ...... 9 a.m...... 7:30 p.m. in pages 1339 to 1344 of Etz Hayim. The office has offered to supply photocopies of the essay Services are also held at Shiva houses to members. as needed. The next essay is titled “Ancient Near Eastern Mythology,” and can be found on pages 1344 to 1348. This discussion is scheduled for Sunday, January 27 at 10 a.m. Tentative dates for the next three meetings are February 17, March 23 and May 4. The list of essays is found Mincha on Page XIII of the Chumash. December 1 ...... 4:20 p.m. The only requirement for participation is reading the essay before coming to the discussion. There is no leader in this informal group.. December 8 ...... 4:20 p.m. While everyone who has read the essay is welcome, please let organizer Richard Stoll know December 15 ...... 4:20 p.m. if you plan to attend the first meeting. Please contact him at [email protected] or 301-946- December 22 ...... 4:20 p.m. 8435. We hope you’ll join us. December 29 ...... 4:25 p.m.

Israel @ 60 Lecture Series: History of Israel Join us on Wednesday, December 5 at 8 p.m. as Israeli tour guide Arie Mizrachi-Shoham Family and Youth Services speaks on “The Battle of , 1948.” This talk will explore the Battle of Jerusalem and its aftermath, in which Jerusalem was a divided city for 19 years, similar to the division created by Nov. 2 .. Shabbat is Special ... 7:15 p.m. the Berlin Wall. Nov. 3 ..... Jr. Congregation . 10:30 a.m. Nov. 17 ...... Yachad . 10:15 a.m. ADULT EDUCATION, cont. on page 7 Nov. 17 ...... Tot Shabbat . 11:00 a.m. Nov. 17 ...... Kehilat Kids . 11:00 a.m.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Candle Lighting Times

December 7 ...... 4:28 p.m. Shabbat Dinner to Honor New Members ...... Page 3 December 14 ...... 4:28 p.m. December 21 ...... 4:31 p.m. A Helzner Happening ...... Page 6 December 28 ...... 4:35 p.m.

Hiddur Project ...... Page 10 Ways to Get Involved Minyan Information Tikvat Israel Directory Bikur Holim Volunteers Please call the minyan captain if you plan to attend morning minyan. Louise Chatlynne [email protected] • 330-9349 Sunday Howard Gorin Rob Kline • 838-0123 Women’s Jewish Network [email protected] (formerly Sisterhood) Monday Rabbi Emeritus Sam Gilston • 924-5424 Bobbi Gorban Lewis A. Weintraub [email protected] • 838-4336 Thursday David Gantz • 460-4674 Cantor Membership Committee Rochelle Helzner Debby Berlyne • 340-0075 Friday [email protected] Joelle Black • 770-4773 College Outreach Barry Buchbinder • 424-3813 Cantor Emeritus Susan Apter Mark Levi [email protected] • 460-9657 Decisions about whether to hold evening President Elyse Bernstein minyan are made by the rabbi and executive Ronald L. Rabin, M.D. [email protected] • 460-0508 director. If minyan is canceled, a message will [email protected] Library be put on the synagogue answering machine. Phyllis Leise • 588-2089 If minyan is not canceled, there will be no Executive Director message on the machine. You can reach the Michael Grossman Attend Minyans machine by calling 762-7338, and press 8- [email protected] Len Lipton 10. [email protected] • 929-9106 Office Staff Cemetery Sites Carol Barsky Social Action Committee Peggy Mitchel Robbi and Larry Cohen Judean Memorial Gardens has established a Amy Schneider [email protected] section for Tikvat Israel. Purchase a site Debbie Segal through the synagogue office; it benefits you Kiddush Volunteers and the congregation. For details, call Michael Religious School Marsha Lyons Grossman at 762-7338 or David Gantz at Sandy Levine, Director [email protected] 460-4674. [email protected] Shepherd’s Table 424-4396 Richard Stoll Toiletries Collection Box Early Childhood [email protected] • 946-8435 When traveling, please remember to collect Rori Pollak, Director Stepping Stones Shelter the small samples you receive and bring them [email protected] Jay Plafker • [email protected] to the synagogue. The toiletries will be 251-0455 distributed to a coalition of homeless shelters. Potomac Valley Nursing & Wellness Center Youth & Family Programming Lynn Berk, Director Roma Sohn Food Addicts in [email protected] [email protected] Recovery Anonymous Reading Mentors Synagogue Office Ellen Eisner Food Addicts inRecovery Anonymous, a 12- Phone • 762-7338 [email protected] • 598-0635 step program for individuals recovering from Fax • 424-4399 addictive eating, meets every Monday from Bulletin Editor Adult Education Committee 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Tikvat Israel in the library Andi Kronzek Susan Apter annex. Newcomers are welcome. For more [email protected] • 294-2682 [email protected] • 460-9657 information, please call Susan at 340-6110. Betsy Miller Visit Tikvat Israel on the Web at [email protected] • 279-0453 www.tikvatisrael.org. Get Connected with TI Listserv Tikvat Israel supports two e-mail lists so members can connect to our community. All phone numbers are in the 301 To receive TI news only, visit http://groups.google.com/group/TikvatIsraelNewsOnly. area code unless otherwise noted. For news and discussion among members, visit http://groups.google.com/group/Tikvat-Israel. For more information about the listservs, please visit our Web site, www.tikvatisrael.org.

2 From the Rabbi’s Desk From the President’s Perspective Rabbi Howard Gorin Ronald L, Rabin, M.D. Dr. Moshe Greenberg is a highly regarded professor of Bible at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem as well as a well-respected, insightful observer of contemporary Jewry. He is the Imagine Shabbat author of an article called “An Agenda for an Ideal .” In his view, a quality Jewish education fosters four essential attributes of Jewish life. They are: My family was never religious, so it was the natural progression rather than a momentous · Love of learning and love of the fulfillment of the mitzvot (commandments) that decision to discontinue what little observing comprise our relationship between God and humanity (i.e., Jewish religious ritual). I did. When it didn’t quite feel right that I considered myself a despite my complete · Acceptance of the Torah as a moral guide, along with the recognition that its moral non-observance, it was simple curiosity that precepts have undergone and continue to undergo revision and refinement. led me to take an “Introduction to ” · A way of life that creates community. course, not any kind of calling from above. Rabbi Shelly Lewis of Congregation Kol · A relationship with the Jewish people in all the lands of their dispersion. Emeth taught the course. Rabbi Lewis was warm and approachable; I had never met I think that Tikvat Israel strives and to a large measure succeeds in instilling in both adults anyone like him. I had never experienced a and youth the importance of these values. I am very proud of our accomplishments in these congregation that was clearly happy to be at spheres of Jewish educational endeavors. It is, though, the fourth area that I would like to synagogue until I went to services at Kol discuss. Emeth. Meeting Rabbi Lewis and attending My work over the last few years has placed an emphasis on a relationship with Jewish Kol Emeth changed my life. communities around the world that is qualitatively and quantitatively different from that But not immediately. Periodic found in most congregations. We cannot exaggerate what our contributions have meant to attendance of services suited my comfort level, living in other parts of the world; their emails are testimony to the difference that we have and that progressed over time to something made. And I am proud whenever our synagogue receives its well-earned recognition for our kind of close to regular. That increased as accomplishments in this area. Janaki and I spent more time together, and It is one thing, though, to embrace Jews of color in Africa and elsewhere. It is quite another progressed to my current level of observance thing to embrace them when they live in our own country. My colleague and friend, Rabbi after we got married. So I came to my present Lynn Goldstein of St. Louis, has been working with a group of African-Americans who live in level of observance through a series of small Cairo, Illinois; fifty of them will be converting to Judaism within the next several weeks. She steps that felt kind of natural, and marked by shared with me that whenever she speaks about them to members of the Jewish establishment, a few memorable events. she is met with skepticism – “they must be some kind of cult” – if not outright hostility. I share this story not because I imagine it Why is it so difficult to believe that people of color can be just as Jewish as you or I? is exceptional, but because I suspect it is rather My reason for taking a group of Tikvat Israel members to Temple Congregation Bethel in common. Many of us become who we are Philadelphia – an historic African American Jewish congregation – is to underscore our kinship through a series of incremental choices that with Jews of all backgrounds, irrespective of the differences in background and style. By the bring us to a moment of surprise, or to a fork time that you read this, we will have returned from our visit, and we will have gained new in the road. We often make our best decisions understandings as to what it means to be Jewish. As I write, I am looking forward to this trip, by simply living our lives and following our with the awareness that I really do not know what to expect. instincts. When advising someone whether There is a secondary reason for the visit. The members of the Philadelphia congregation to pursue a career in science or medicine, the spend the entire day of Shabbat in synagogue. What do they do that would make such a first question I ask is, “What do you daydream weekly experience something to be anticipated with joy? I believe that they have a lot to teach about?” What we think about when we aren’t us. really thinking tells us a lot about ourselves. Twenty years ago, I never would have imagined that every week I would have an Erev Shabbat dinner and attend Shabbat services. Even more surprising is the sense of loss when it doesn’t happen. So for me, this weekly routine is wonderful — all I could have imagined. But many members of our community imagine more, and then make it happen. Cliff Fishman imagined a Torah

Continued on page 14

3 CANTOR’S CORNER

Cantor Rochelle Helzner Strathmore Concert Rehearsals for Adults Rabbi Gorin was met with many Rehearsals will be held every Thursday fascinating questions during his recent New! Shul Singers beginning December 13 (except for visit to some of our religious school classrooms: Cantor Helzner will hold an open session for December 27). There will also be three those who would like to learn new melodies voluntary regional rehearsals (see below). We “Why did you choose to become a for Shabbat morning services. Sessions will may decide to attend some of those instead rabbi? Was it to get closer to God?” be held after minyan on Tuesdays, December of our regular rehearsals. There will be a final “Why do we have so many holy books?” 18 and January 22. mandatory regional rehearsal at Washington “How do you pick the topics for your On Shabbat, participants will seat Hebrew Congregation on Sunday, February sermons?” “Has God ever spoken to you?” themselves among the congregation and will 24 from 3:30 to 5 p.m., and a mandatory join the Cantor in singing these melodies, final tech rehearsal on Tuesday, February 26 Rabbi Gorin’s responses were filled with thus increasing and spreading spirited at Strathmore Hall from 7 to 9:30 p.m. wisdom and insight. He told the davening. It is not necessary to be able to children that he chose to be a rabbi because read music or Hebrew (transliterations will Regional Music Rehearsals he loved being Jewish and be provided). The only requirement is a love Regional music rehearsals are voluntary but wanted to share Judaism with others. He told of singing, a willingness to participate and a important — everyone must know all music; the class that any person desire to enhance the “ruach” of our services. we will not take singers who have never sung in any profession can get close to God. He the music before. If your choir is behind, or reminded the children that Strathmore Concert your singers want more time, they should we are a people of the book. And he told On Sunday, March 2, adult and youth attend one, two or all of these rehearsals. them that there are a combination choirs, cantors and music professionals from of factors that he considers when writing a congregations throughout the Washington Sunday, January 13 – B’nai Tzedek sermon, such as what is happening area will present a concert at Strathmore Hall Sunday, January 27 – Beth Ami in his life and in the world; what the Torah in celebration of Israel’s 60th birthday. Adults Sunday, February 10 – Temple Emanuel teaches us about this will sing at both a 3:30 matinee and a 7 p.m. issue, and much more. performance. Tikvat Israel youth will perform 1:30-2:15 p.m. Youths rehearsal Rabbi’s visit to Mrs. Leavey’s third grade at the 7 p.m. performance only. Radio 2:15-2:30 p.m. Break with snack class resulted in a wonderful personality Martin Goldsmith will narrate. 2:30-3 p.m. Youths and adults discussion. One of the students said she had Information about tickets will be announced rehearsal learned about the Big soon. 3-4:30 p.m. Adults rehearsal Bang Theory in public school and had studied creation in religious Strathmore Concert Rehearsals for Youth school. She wanted to know which Rabbi Tikvat Israel’s third through seventh grade HOLD THESE DATES believed was true. The third students who have signed up to participate Sunday, Dec. 2 at 4 p.m. graders also discussed what it meant to be in the Strathmore concert will have rehearsals Family Concert: “A Helzner created in God’s image. with Cantor Helzner on Sundays, December Happening” I was particularly touched by comments 16, January 6, January 13, January 27, from two of our third graders as February 3 and February 10 PROMPTLY Sunday, March 2 at they spoke about God. Matthew at 9:30 a.m. at Tikvat Israel. A mandatory 3:30 p.m. & 7 p.m. th commented, “I think of God as one of my regional rehearsal will be held on Sunday, Strathmore Concert for Israel’s 60 family members.” Rabbi asked if he meant February 24 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Washington Sunday, April 6 at 4 p.m. like his mom or dad, Hebrew Congregation. A mandatory final Vocal Arts Society Recital at TI — NEW grandparents, sister or brothers. Matthew tech rehearsal will be held at Strathmore Hall Thursday, May 8 at 5:45 p.m. responded, “All of them.” on Tuesday, February 26 from 7 to 9:30 p.m. TI Yom Haastmaut Celebration & Ruben said that he thinks of God in the same Note: There are three voluntary regional BBQ way as Matthew described rehearsals (see below). As a group, we may decide and “like a lifeguard watching over a Sunday, June 1 to attend some of those instead of a regular swimming pool.” Washington Area Celebration of rehearsal session. Many thanks to Rabbi Gorin for visiting Israel’s 60th our classrooms! Please be sure to ask your child about their special time with our rabbi. My sincere thanks to Jamie Freedman for our successful Sally Foster gift wrap sale! We are grateful to her husband,

4 Religious School BROADMAN-KAPLAN EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

Sandy Levine, Director Rori Pollak, Director

Rabbi Gorin was met with many fascinating The leaves are finally turning red, yellow and orange, and the air is cooler — yeah! The children questions during his recent are enjoying playing in the leaves and spending as much time outdoors as possible until the visit to some of our religious school classrooms: really cold weather sets in. “Why did you choose to become a rabbi? The creativity of our staff is limitless. As you walk down the halls, you can see collages with Was it to get closer to God?” items the children found on their nature walks. Paintings in the bright beautiful colors of fall “Why do we have so many holy books?” have been created by the children using nature’s resources as paint brushes. Finally, as November “How do you pick the topics for your came to a close, the ECC celebrated Thanksgiving. The children enjoyed making different sermons?” “Has God ever spoken to you?” foods and sharing with friends in other classes at our feast. Rabbi Gorin’s responses were filled with But wait — mashed potatoes and other Thanksgiving leftovers — move aside. Ready or not, wisdom and insight. He told the here come the latkes! children that he chose to be a rabbi because Even though the calendar on the wall will have been turned to December for only four he loved being Jewish and days, we will need to get out the dreidels and put the chanukiah in the window. We will read wanted to share Judaism with others. He told stories of Judah Maccabee and, through encouraging children’s imaginative play, Chanukah the class that any person will become more than just a story to the children. The children will learn about cooperating in any profession can get close to God. He and working together with friends when they practice rebuilding the Temple with blocks. reminded the children that They will learn about the Maccabees and the miracle of the oil when they light candles and we are a people of the book. And he told retell the story. While Chanukah is not a major holiday in the Jewish annual cycle, it has them that there are a combination become a festive and exciting time for American Jewish families. We are all looking forward to of factors that he considers when writing a lighting the chanukiah, playing driedel and making latkes. sermon, such as what is happening Re-enrollment begins this month. Priority enrollment is extended to current ECC families in his life and in the world; what the Torah until December 15, after which registration will open to the public. Get your application in as teaches us about this issue, and much more. soon as possible so you don’t lose your spot! Rabbi’s visit to Mrs. Leavey’s third grade If you are not a current ECC family and are interested in sending your child to our class resulted in a wonderful program, please download an application form from the website, www.broadman-kaplan.org. discussion. One of the students said she had Once you complete and send in the application, we will place you on the waiting list. You will learned about the Big be sent an enrollment form, if space permits, once open enrollment begins. Bang Theory in public school and had studied creation in religious school. She wanted to know which Rabbi MARK YOUR CALENDAR believed was true. The third · New mini-science enrichment, which runs for three sessions, begins graders also discussed what it meant to be December 7. created in God’s image. · December 12 – Lion Tales Puppet productions will perform their I was particularly touched by comments from two of our third graders as Chanukah story. they spoke about God. Matthew · The ECC will be closed Tuesday, December 25 and Tuesday, January 1. commented, “I think of God as one of my · ECC Winter Camp runs from Monday, December 24 through family members.” Rabbi asked if he meant like his mom or dad, Monday, December 31. ECC does not close for a winter break. grandparents, sister or brothers. Matthew responded, “All of them.” Ruben said that he thinks of God in the same way as Matthew described and “like a lifeguard watching over a swimming pool.” Many thanks to Rabbi Gorin for visiting our classrooms! Please be sure to ask your child about their special time with our rabbi. My sincere thanks to Jamie Freedman for our successful Sally Foster gift wrap sale! We are grateful to her husband, Tony, and children, Allyson and Daniel, for their help as well. Jamie has been 5 chairing this fundraiser for many years. She has indicated that her TO ORDER TICKETS, CALL THE SYNAGOGUE OFFICE AT 301-762-7338.

A Rare Treat: Helzner Sisters Join in Song at Cantor’s Concert

Sisters Rochelle and Robyn Helzner first Robyn Helzner Trio, a professional outfit that audience at the Hebrew Home. The moment performed together in public as elementary travels the globe to perform concerts, and was recorded in local by a school kids, but their joint singing school-age children from Tikvat Israel who newspaper photo appearing a few days later engagements during the many years since are part of a choir for the event. in the Washington Jewish Week. have been uncommon affairs. Complete details on ordering tickets can Robyn Helzner recently provided some That makes the 2007 Cantor’s Concert be found at http://tikvatisrael.org/ personal insights on the rare opportunity to at Tikvat Israel a rare treat – a chance to hear community/HelznerHappening.html. The perform side by side with her big sister in a two lovely voices in harmony on the songs of event serves as one of the year’s most recent exclusive interview. the season, as well as a few surprises. This important fund-raising activities at TI. year’s event, dubbed “A Helzner Happening: The Helzner sisters’ first public Q. You don’t get to perform much publicly A Concert for Families,” takes shape at 4 p.m. performance as a tandem came well before with your sister these days. Does that make a on Sunday, December 2 in the synagogue’s Rochelle envisioned a lengthy career as a joint appearance special in some ways? social hall. cantor in the Conservative Jewish movement. Robyn: When Rochelle and I were growing The sisters will be joined on stage at She was 10 years old and her sister was 8 at up, we sang together all the time. We were times by the other two musicians in the the time they sang for an appreciative Continued on next page

6 HELZNER SISTERS continued from ADULT EDUCATION, cont. from page 1 previous page Arie Mizrachi-Shoham was born in 1948 in the newly-independent state of Israel. His known as “The Helzner Sisters.” These days, family made aliyah from Kurdistan to Israel in the 1920s, settling in Jerusalem. In 1969 he our joint performances are few and far enrolled at Hebrew University in Jerusalem to work toward a bachelor of arts degree. He between, so it is always a very special event majored in both Middle Eastern studies and . While attending the university, when we have the opportunity to do a concert Arie also earned his license as an official guide for Israel. His certification is in Yediot Ha’aretz together. (knowledge of Israel) including the geography, history and archaeology of Israel, as well as biblical history. Now in his 30th year as tour guide, he has completed thousands of hours of Q. Can you estimate how many times – as advanced training in areas such as the new archaeological digs in Israel, ancient water systems, adult professionals – that you’ve performed the evolution of the synagogue in Judaism and the conflicts over water in the Middle East. together in concert? Has that ever happened outside of appearances at our synagogue? The Jewish Perspective on Dissent Robyn: The majority of our joint concerts have Are Jews radicals? Take a look at what our tradition says about the role of Jews in challenging the been at Tikvat Israel. We also performed wrongs we see. What is our responsibility to speak up and when is it appropriate? together at Temple Israel, before the merger On Sunday, December 16 from 10:15 to 11:30 a.m. in the library, Rabbi Alana Suskin with Beth Tikva, and at a community-wide will lead a session during which we will look at classical texts. No Hebrew or Aramaic is festival in Northern Virginia. Most recently, necessary. Breakfast will be available for purchase at 9:45 a.m. Rochelle and I performed a concert for the Rabbi Suskin is a writer and educator who publishes on a variety of topics, including Jewish community in Honolulu, Hawaii! “cutting-edge Judaism” (such as blogging, independent minyanim, and Jewish social on- and Q. Does your dad Manny, being the lifelong off-line networking), feminism, social justice and economic justice in Jewish tradition. She has musician who influenced your formative published what is considered to be one of the essential articles on feminism and halacha, which years in music, offer any guidance, is used as part of the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Study’s curriculum on the Conservative suggestions or critiques these days? movement’s halachic approaches. Robyn: These days, our dad, also known as Mr. Kvell, just listens and beams! Jewish Literacy 101: – This third class of the fall session of Jewish Literacy 101, led by Rabbi Gorin, will take place on Q. The last time the cantor’s concert at TI Thursday, December 13 after minyan in Room 11. “Midrash. . Gemara. .” included the Robyn Helzner Trio was five We often hear these words, but what do they mean? They all refer to a genre of Jewish writings years ago. Did Rochelle suggest it might be collectively called Rabbinic Literature, comprising a period of approximately 600 years of time for a return engagement? Jewish intellectual endeavor. Come learn about these writings and what they say about God Robyn: The Trio participated in the concert and our relationship with God. In this session, we will focus on “Midrash” Attendance at the to celebrate Rochelle’s 18th anniversary at previous session is not a requirement. Tikvat Israel in 2002. The Trio has an The final meeting of the fall session will be held on Thursday, January 10, 2008, when extensive repertoire of songs that appeal to Rabbi Gorin will address, “Codes of Law or Bible Commentary.” both children and adults. Rochelle decided The spring session of Jewish Literacy 101, led by Rabbi Alana Suskin and Rabbi Moshe that a concert for families, combining our Faierstein, focuses on Mystical and Hasidic Literature (February 4, 2008), Philosophical voices and energies, would be a marvelous Literature (March 3, 2008), Musar – Ethical Literature (April 7, 2008), and Responsa (May way to celebrate the Chanukah holiday. 5, 2008). Q. Well-placed sources indicate the Tikvat Feminism and Liturgy Discussion Group Israel show is considered a family concert Led by Rabbi Alana Suskin, this class meets every other Monday evening. The dates for with an array of musical offerings that will December were not final at press time. For information, contact Rabbi Suskin at appeal to young and old? [email protected]. Robyn: Absolutely right! Q. Are you introducing anything new or Scholars Weekend especially fun to the song list in this show? Mark your calendars for March 28-29, 2008, when guest scholar Rabbi Burton Visotzky will Robyn: In addition to creating a chanukiah focus on the topic, “Engaging the Other: Christianity and Islam in the 21st Century.” Specifically, composed of kids, how does a song in English, Rabbi Visotzky will address: Hebrew, Luganda and Arabic sound? · Cairo to Qatar: Recent Developments in Jewish-Muslim Interfaith Dialogue · “And then I told the Pope….” – New Insights into Catholic-Jewish Relations (from his Q. Anything else you’d like to share? tenure as professor at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome) Robyn: We are very excited to have a · Isaac Unbound – Three Religions Read the Akedah children’s choir, featuring students from the Tikvat Israel Religious School, join us in the Look for more details as the date approaches. If you would like to volunteer to coordinate concert. the weekend or to set up for dinner, please contact Betsy Miller at 301-279-0453 or [email protected].

7 YOUTH & FAMILY PROGRAMMING

Lynn Berk, Director USY Family Game Day – Save the Date At print time, USY was still working on their Mark your calendar for Family Game Day on Happy Chanukah December calendar. They were considering Saturday, January 5 from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Join I hope everyone enjoyed the great gifts the having a Chanukah dinner at Mama Lucias us after Shabbat services and the kiddush for kids made at the Chanukah crafts workshop. in Olney on Saturday December 1, or to go a relaxing afternoon. We will play Scrabble, This is one of my favorite programs, the to “All Fired Up” for a pottery painting on Boggle, Four Across, checkers, chess, ping parents pay a small fee and the kids, from Sunday, December 2. Watch your mail for pong, pool, cards and more. Stay warm on a kindergarten thru 12th grade, make gifts for the flyers to see which program wins out. winter afternoon by visiting with friends, parents, siblings, grandparents and friends. USY is also planning to sponsor a playing with your kids and having some good Bonim will hold a “Give & Get” Chanukah holiday party at the Greentree Shelter on old-fashioned fun. party on Sunday, December 9. The group Sunday, December 15. They will help the will “get” to make latkes and fill sufganiot children at the shelter decorate holiday (jelly donuts). They will “get” reduced cookies and make a present for their parents. admission to the program if they bring a gift for Toys for Tots, and we will make peanut Youth Shabbat Morning Service butter and jelly sandwiches for a shelter. We The Youth and Family Programming are also asking the kids to bring a wrapped Department is sponsoring a Youth Shabbat unisex grab bag gift for no more than $5.They Morning Service on Saturday, December 15. will be “given” a chance to participate in a All of the youth in the synagogue community Chanukah Grab Bag and “given” dreidels and are invited to participate. Children who chocolate gelt. Watch for the Bonim flyer attend our religious school are learning their with all of the details. group parts in class. All families with children in a Jewish Day School should have received Machar a mailing with an invitation for your kids to The November Machar multi-chapter participate, and with copies of the prayers overnight was a huge success, with kids from and parts. For more information, call Lynn at Shaare Tefila, B’nai Israel and Beth El joining 301-762-7338. us. In addition to being creative with 10,000 The Youth and Family Programming Legos, we ate, played, prayed, watched movies Department is sponsoring the Kiddush that and had fun! day in honor of our Tikvat Israel children. If This month’s Machar program is you would like to contribute, we suggest $10 “Swimming in Eilat” on Sunday, December per family. Checks should be made out to 9. Check the Machar flyer for details. Tikvat Israel Youth Committee and mailed to the synagogue, c/o Lynn Berk, or they may Kadima be dropped off in the TI office. Kadima will hold a mystery sleepover on Saturday, December 9. It will begin at 7 p.m. Family Fun Day – December 25 with Havdallah and Menorah lighting. The Join us on December 25 for Family Fun Day evening will be jam-packed with activities — featuring Gary Rosenthal’s Hiddur Mitzvah some in our building and some out of our Project, food, face painting, Israeli dancing building. Watch for the e-vite with all of the and a family movie. DON’T FORGET TO information. ORDER YOUR GARY ROSENTHAL Our Kadimaniks will also be JUDAICA PIECES IN ADVANCE AND participating in the area-wide Chanukah SAVE. Every TI family should have received Blow Out at the JCC on Saturday, December a flyer with pictures & prices of available 15. More than 30 Jewish youth items. A flyers with pictures and prices of organizations are joining together to sponsor available items went out in the November this event which includes a dance, a social mid-month mailing and was included in the action projects, a Chanukah celebration and November Bulletin. For more information, more. please e-mail Bonnie at [email protected].

8 RELIGIOUS SCHOOL

Sandy Levine, Director significantly and she will not be You will receive your child’s report card able to continue chairing this sale. Please in the mail at the end of the month. Rabbi Gorin was met with many fascinating contact me at 301-424-4396 if you would questions during his recent visit to some of be willing to chair this fundraiser. Two MARK YOUR CALENDARS our religious school classrooms: volunteers may enjoy co-chairing our Sally Foster gift wrap sale. Jamie has graciously Dec. 2 6th Grade Tallit “Why did you choose to become a rabbi? offered to show her successor exactly what Workshop with Was it to get closer to God?” “Why do we needs to be done. Shirley Waxman have so many holy books?” “How do you We are all looking forward to “A Helzner Dec. 9 4th and 5th Grade to pick the topics for your sermons?” “Has God Happening” featuring Cantor Helzner and Ring House ever spoken to you?” the Robyn Helzner Trio on Sunday, December 2 at 4 p.m. Our fourth through sixth graders Dec. 9, 10 Festive Chanukah Rabbi Gorin’s responses were filled with will be featured during this concert! Programs wisdom and insight. He told the Please support our next Bagel Sale on Dec. 9, 16 3rd Grade Consecration children that he chose to be a rabbi because Sunday, December 16. Pre-orders must be Workshops he loved being Jewish and wanted to share submitted by Wednesday, December 12 (see Judaism with others. He told the class that form on this page). any person in any profession can get close to God. He reminded the children that we are a people of the book. And he told them that there are a combination of factors that he BAGELS TO GO! considers when writing a sermon, such as what RELIGIOUS SCHOOL FUNDRAISER is happening in his life and in the world; what the Torah teaches us about this issue, and much more. What? Fresh Bagels from Goldberg’s. Hot coffee. Relax at TI or take home a dozen Rabbi’s visit to Mrs. Leavey’s third grade bagels (or two!) class resulted in a wonderful discussion. One of the students said she had learned about When? Sunday December 16 (and monthly thereafter!) the Big Bang Theory in public school and 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. had studied creation in religious school. She Where? Room 14, Religious School Wing wanted to know which Rabbi believed was true. The third graders also discussed what it How to order: Return the order form and your check made out to Tikvat Israel Religious meant to be created in God’s image. School to Sandy Levine or the synagogue office by Wednesday, December 12 for pick- I was particularly touched by comments up on Sunday December 16. Questions? Call Stuart Berlin at 301-315-6141. from two of our third graders as they spoke about God. Matthew commented, “I think of God as one of my family members.” Rabbi BAGEL ORDER FORM asked if he meant like his mom or dad, For Pick-Up on Sunday, December 16 (9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) grandparents, sister or brothers. Matthew responded, “All of them.” Ruben said that Name ______Email ______he thinks of God in the same way as Matthew described and “like a lifeguard watching over Telephone number ______a swimming pool.” Many thanks to Rabbi Gorin for visiting our classrooms! Please be sure to ask your Number of bagels: Please order by the 1/2 dozen ($6 each) or dozen ($10 each). child about their special time with our rabbi. Minimum advance order is 1/2 dozen of each kind. My sincere thanks to Jamie Freedman Plain ____ Sesame ____ Everything ____ for our successful Sally Foster gift wrap sale! We are grateful to her husband, Tony, and Black Russian ____ Raisin ____ Egg ____ children, Allyson and Daniel, for their help (pumpernickel w/Vidalia onions) as well. Jamie has been chairing this fundraiser for many years. She has indicated Flavor of the Month! Onion _____ TOTAL = $______that her work responsibilities have increased

9 Israel @ 60 Harvey T. Kaplan your calendar for a special concert at of the Political Department of the Jerusalem- TI Representative on the Israel Educators Strathmore — with many TI family members based Jewish Agency, now known as the Institute participating with Cantor Helzner — on Jewish Agency for Israel (or JAFI). [Several of the Washington, DC Jewish Community Sunday, March 2. extremely knowledgeable and excellent The Adult Education Committee — speakers and visitors from JAFI are scheduled Declaration of the Establishment of the State in concert with the Israel Affairs Committee, to visit our congregation in support of our of Israel HAZAK, and the Strategic Communications Adult Education Program this year. See the In last month’s column, I discussed the Committee — has scheduled (as of this schedule for details.] content of the Declaration of the writing) 14 programs related to Israel this In 1948, Golda Meir (now the Israeli Establishment of the State of Israel. Our fifth year! The overview is available on a flyer (both surname she used) was appointed Minister graders already know the significance of the in print and downloadable from our website). to . She had left Kiev in Russia many four dates (i.e., years) that appear in the text I guarantee that you’ll find something of years earlier, where her father was a hard- of the Declaration. If you do not, it might be interest among the diverse offerings. working but poor carpenter. According to interesting to refer to the copy on display in , she “returned to the synagogue lobby. Hint: one of the four Golda Russia...[after 50 years from her departure to years is in the 19th Century, and the other In last month’s column, I mentioned the name the USA] as Israel’s first minister to Moscow, three are in the 20th. (If you haven’t had an of an Israeli closely linked to the United States, and was received by thousands of Jews who opportunity to read the text, try to guess Golda Myerson (born came to the Moscow Great Synagogue to meet what four dates the framers of Mabovitch, in Kiev, Russia, her.” She was elected to the (Israel’s the Declaration would make so 1898). Most of us remember her Parliament) in 1949 as a member of the Mapai prominent!) To learn more about as Golda Meir. Here are some party, and was selected to serve as Israel’s this amazing document, join us interesting and not-so-well- Minister of Labor. In that role, again according for the Adult Education known facts about the woman to Judaica, she began “large scale housing and Committee’s program scheduled who came to be known as road building programs, and supported a for March 12, 2008 at 8 p.m., Golda. policy of unrestricted immigration.” After she when Micha Balf, the Education Golda and her family became Foreign Minister in 1956 and held from the Jewish Agency emigrated from Russia to the that post for nine years, she had become a for Israel to Washington, DC, will talk about United States in 1906 due to poverty in the famous international figure — one of few the Declaration. area where she was born. The Mabovitch women in her time to hold such a high office. By the time you read this, the Hebrew family settled in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. There She was instrumental in that position in version of the Declaration should be on she studied in the Normal School for extending aid from the State of Israel to a display in the synagogue. It’s a beautiful and Teachers. She decided to become a Zionist, number of African nations. On February colorful framed edition, worthy of prominent largely because of her horrible memories of 26, 1969, Golda Meir became Israel’s fourth display during this special year of Israel @ the pogroms in Czarist Russia. She lived in Prime Minister. During her term of office, 60. the USA for about 15 years, from age 8 to she “encouraged the emigration of thousands age 23. In 1921 she and her husband, Morris of Soviet Jews to Israel, and strengthened Yom Ha’Atzmaut Myerson, settled in the British Mandate of relations with the United States.” The National Park Service has given its . The Myersons joined kibbutz Many of us remember her role during approval for a single celebration of Yom Merchavyah [Merhavyah] and managed the Yom Kippur War (1973). Egypt and Ha’Atzmaut ([Israel] Independence Day) on reasonably well under the harsh conditions Syria conducted a surprise attack on Israel the National Mall on Sunday, June 1, 2008. of kibbutz life. Her involvement in politics during that religious holiday. After leading This means that we’ll celebrate Chag and social activities eventually took her away her country through a difficult and intense Ha’Atzmaut, the newly-designated Holiday from the kibbutz, and she was sent back to period — and after winning the war — she of Independence, along with our friends in the United States as an emissary to the Pioneer resigned her office. However, she remained Northern Virginia and the District of Women’s Organization here (1932-1934). as head of a caretaker government, working Columbia. I’m confident that the TI When she returned to Palestine she joined diligently on military disengagement of forces, planning committee will be looking for the executive committee of the Israel labor until the assumption of the Prime Minister’s volunteers of all ages to make the TI booth union, Histadrut. She advanced within that role by her successor, Yitzchak (Yizhak) Rabin on the Mall attractive and successful. organization, became head of Histadrut’s in June of 1974. Golda Meir then retired Don’t forget about our Israeli-style Political Department, and received a great from government into private life, after a long barbecue and celebration on Thursday, May deal of training for more significant roles in and noteworthy career in support of the State 8, just before Yom Ha’Atzmaut. Also, mark Israeli politics. In 1946 she became the head of Israel.

10 SOCIAL ACTION New Committee for Leadership and Public Speaking COMMITTEE Hopeful Talkers Toastmasters Club was founded at Tikvat Israel by Dr. John Melmed with the assistance of several other TI members (Jeff Smith, Louise and Chuck Chatlynne, and Robert SOLAR COOKERS FOR SALE! Katz). Several more TI members followed suit and are still active in the club. Many outside experts, Jewish and Gentile alike, have assisted in building and strengthening the club. This What? last year was especially fruitful. Hopeful Talkers grew and, under the leadership of last year’s Solar Cookers: check out the displays Distinguished Toastmaster President, Ms. Barbara Walters, achieved “Distinguished” status. in the main lobby and library lobby As a club, we contributed to HAZAK (TI’s senior program) for two years, and we taught the Bar and Bat Mitzvah youth how to speak. We are now in the middle of the third such Who? instructional program. The congregation is aware of us and our activities, but we are not For the women and children of Darfur supported to the extent of functioning as a viable chartered club with TI member support who are currently living in refugee only. We would have extinguished if we had not opened the club to the community at large. camps Therefore, in order to attend to TI’s perceived needs which could include religion-related Why? issues, a few of us, members of both Hopeful Talkers and TI, decided to form a committee to · To decrease the violence endured by concentrate on areas of leadership and improved public speaking. With Rabbi Howard Gorin the women and children by and President Dr. Ron Rabin’s support, we have formed the Committee for Leadership and providing an alternative to firewood Public Speaking. The founding members are Judy and Robert Katz, John Melmed, Sam cooking; Freedenberg, Louise and Chuck Chatlynne, Neil Newman and Jeff Smith. Robert Katz will · To provide an environmentally- serve as coordinator and Judy Katz will be administrative assistant. responsible method of cooking; Such a committee (completely independently of Hopeful Talkers Toastmasters Club · To provide an opportunity for the which will continue to be Tikvat Israel’s Club in Residence and meet on the second and fourth refugees to create a solar cookers Thursday of the month in the Herman Flax Library) could be helpful to the congregation in manufacturing business several ways. For example: · It could improve the communications skills and workshop-conducting skills of congregation How? members interested in becoming discussion leaders in the session on Shabbat, · Complete an order/donation form helping to increase the number of future religious leaders at Tikvat Israel and strengthen the located on each of the solar cooker congregation as a Makom Torah (Home for the Torah). displays and send by mail; or · In a program that has been held for three years, committee members listen to and evaluate · Go online to jewishworldwatch.org speeches prepared by TI Bar/Bat Mitzvah candidates in order to improve their public to complete an order/donation form; speaking skills and build their self-confidence. Beginning in January or February, we plan or to open the program to Bar and Bat Mitzvah candidates in the community at large. · Call Jewish World Watch 818-501- 1836 to place an order/donation. Please think of useful projects and join us to implement them. Let us know what you would like to achieve for personal enrichment, or what are your ideas to enrich our lives as a Each $30 order/donation pays for: two group. We are ready to assist you or work with you. Challenge us! solar cookers, two pots, two potholders, a year’s supply of plastic bags, and skills training for refugee women and girls Free Self-Defense Class For more information, visit jewishworldwatch.org and read about Learn basic self-defense techniques in order to protect yourself and your family. The Chung this amazing program! If you have Shin Do School of Karate offers this free self-defense course as a public service to the community. additional questions, contact Robbi The adult co-ed class meets in the TI social hall on Wednesdays from 8 to 9:15 p.m. for eight Cohen at [email protected]. weeks beginning January 11. Registration deadline is January 3. Participants will learn how to avoid confrontation, and how to increase the chances of avoiding injury or death if assaulted. Students are also encouraged to provide their own “what- Blood Drive – Save the Date if” scenarios. If you’ve taken this class before, this is an opportunity for refresher training. The Social Action Committee will hold Class size is limited to about 12 students. If there is not enough interest (about eight students) its annual blood drive on Sunday, May 4, we’ll cancel the class. An October issue of the Gazette described a rash of attacks in the Bel Pre/ 2008. If you are regular blood donor, please Georgia Avenue area during the summer. Would knowing self-defense have helped? Perhaps, just schedule your donations so that they will by showing an air of confidence, the attackers might pass you by for a different target. coincide with this date. If you are considering We do request a $25-$35 donation to the shul for allowing us to meet in the social hall. a first time donation and have concerns and/ To register, or for more information on the self-defense class or our regular Wednesday night or questions, please contact Robbi Cohen at karate class, please contact Joel Kristal (evenings) at 301-460-6668 or by e-mail at [email protected]. [email protected].

11 An Essential Source: The ArtSites % Tikvat Israel Connection Your Synagogue Rosalind Feldman, PhD themes, seder plates, menorahs, mezuzzot, Website embellished towels and many other items The vitality of Judaism depends on people designed and made by ArtSites artists are in The TI website (www.tikvatisrael.org) is the living Jewish lives with their families, prominent use during prayer, religious “go-to” source of information for all participating in Jewish institutions, and ceremonies, and holiday celebrations congregants. In addition to news and features enlivening Jewish cultural traditions. ArtSites, throughout the Jewish community. Objects on various aspects of synagogue life, the Guild for Judaic Art, founded by Shirley of art created by ArtSites members enliven congregants now can access — with a Waxman and Leslie Montroll, has provided locally and throughout the password — a members-only area, where a Jewish culture to the Washington area for world. A sampling of objects that fortify membership directory and current and past more than 22 years. Jewish identity are watercolor paintings, pen issues of the monthly bulletin can be found. Tikvat Israel is the synagogue of choice and ink drawings, art quilts depicting Jewish In addition, a photo gallery that includes for many of the artists in ArtSites. Included themes to enhance the décor of homes; jewelry images of various TI events in 2006 and 2007 among them are Shirley Waxman, Cynthia with Jewish motifs; Ayshet Chayil tribute has been added to the site. Spritzer, Gale Pressman, Kate Jennes-Kahn, items; blessings depicted on wall hangings The website also houses a blog, where Melanie Grishman, Tamah Graber, Bobbi and pictures to welcome guests; and congregants can post views on relevant topics Gorban, Rosalind Feldman, Albert Feldman embellished clothing. and others can add their comments about and Avrum Ashery. The Goldman Art Gallery at the Jewish the original posting. ArtSites is the foremost group in the Community Center of Greater Washington Janaki Kuruppu serves as webmaster, and Greater Washington D.C. area, enriching is the location of the ArtSites Chanukah Show Jay P. Goldman serves as the chief editor of Jewish life through fine and graphic art, fiber and Sale for the third year in a row. Gallery the site. art, ceramics, stained and dichromatic glass, hours are listed below. and more. In addition to members designing We create because we must. We look and crafting one-of-a-kind items of Judaica, forward to sharing our art with you and ArtSites welcomes the public to educational meeting you at the show. Help Nurture the programs about Judaic art. The “guild” aspect of ArtSites is taken Beautification seriously. The dictionary defines “guild” as ARTSITES CHANUKAH Committee’s Efforts “an organization of persons with related GALLERY SHOW AND SALE interests, goals…formed for mutual aid….” Goldman Art Gallery Fundraising for Tikvat Israel’s landscaping [Random House, Webster’s Dictionary, 1999, Jewish Community Center project is now underway. If you would like 582]. The rigorous jurying process insures of Greater Washington to contribute, please refer to the description that every item displayed has passed review 6125 Montrose Road of areas and donation levels located on the by a committee of experts. ArtSites meetings Rockville, MD charts in the lobby. What a wonderful way can be “rip-roaring,” featuring more opinions to memorialize a loved one, recognize a than people attending but members are there November 18-December 3 milestone in someone’s life, commemorate an for each other in times of celebration and Sundays: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. anniversary or birth, or simply make a crises. Members appreciate the connection Mondays-Thursdays: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. donation to this worthwhile undertaking to with other Judaic artists. Camaraderie is strong, Fridays: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. make the outside of our synagogue look based on working together on projects, Closed Thanksgiving Day beautiful and more inviting to those who sharing experiences and ideas, and working enter. Donate whatever you can – no gift is at shows trying to please the public. ArtSites December 4-December 27 too small. If you choose not to donate money, provides the artists with a structure for group Sundays: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. consider purchasing a tree. shows, a professional website, publicity, Mondays: 1 p.m.-5 p.m. A big thank goes to you to donors Tikvat socializing among members, and mentoring. Tuesdays: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Israel’s Women’s Network, Robbi Cohen and Prayer shawls, skull caps, Torah mantles, Wednesdays: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. the Lerner family for their generous wedding canopies, spice boxes, challah covers, Thursdays: 4 p.m.-8 p.m. contributions to our landscaping project! matzo covers, quilted place mats with holiday Fridays: Closed Please call Debbie Diamond at 301- 929-1107 or the office at 301-762-7338 to make a contribution.

HOLD THE DATE Sunday, January 20 • 6 p.m. Landscaping Fundraising Dinner

12 Mourning Note from the Bereavement Committee

A shiva call is not a social outing or a mere formality. It is a sacred act of sharing the sorrow of one’s relatives and friends to console the mourners, and to support them with one’s presence. It is appropriate for visitors to bring nourishing food for the mourners. Condolence callers should not expect refreshments to be provided, and it is inappropriate to use a shiva call as an opportunity to socialize.

The custom of leaving a small stone on the monument when visiting the grave of a loved one fulfills the need to Save the World One Light Bulb at a Time! “communicate” with the deceased in a tangible way. The small stone becomes a Tikvat Israel’s Environmental Task Force is holding a sale of Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs calling card which says, “I was here, I (CFLs) during Chanukah. They will be for sale outside of the library on Sunday, December 9 thought about you, I love you and I miss from 10 a.m. to noon. (Other bulbs, including dimmable and 3-way CFLs, will be available to you.” order.) Or, you may pre-order using the form below.

Save energy and help slow global warming by purchasing CFLs at this special time of year! Women’s Network Why Buy CFL? They use 75 percent less energy to produce the same amount of light as an incandescent Rosh Chodesh Group bulb. A 27-watt CFL can replace a 100-watt incandescent, and a 14-watt CFL can replace a The Women’s Network Rosh Chodesh group 60-watt incandescent. will meet this month on Wednesday, December 12 at 7:45 p.m. (after minyan). Each month They last 10 times longer. The life of a CFL is up to 10,000 hours per bulb, compared to will have its own theme and program, and a less than 1,000 hours for an incandescent. different person will lead each one. Last month, we had a wonderful turnout with a great group of women and had a good time. We hope you HOW TO ORDER will join us this month. Purchase a 4-pack of 100-watt equivalent bulbs for $14.50, a 4-pack of 60-watt equivalent for $10.75, or a 4-pack of 75-watt equivalent for $12.95. Paid-Up Membership Chanukah Party The TI Women’s Network invites all members who have paid their dues by December 1 to join us for a Chanukah party to be held at CFL ORDER FORM Shelly Goldin’s home on Sunday, December 9 at 5 p.m. Name ______We will have a light meal with salad, latkes and dessert to Phone ______celebrate the holiday and what the Women’s Network has been Number of 60-watt 4-packs ______and will be doing this year! Please bring a small gift ($5-$10 in Number of 75-watt 4-packs ______value) to exchange. Please RSVP to Bobbi Gorban at [email protected] or 301-838- Number of 100-watt 4-packs ______4336 by December 1, and send your dues ($36) to Janice Balin. If you are a new Please enclose a check payable to Tikvat Israel Congregation and return the form to the office by member of the synagogue, Women’s Network December 16. dues are free for the first year. Please join us!

13 HAZAK Focuses on Art and Israel PRESIDENT, cont. from page 3

ArtSites, the Guild for Judaic Art, is holding their Chanukah Gallery Show and Sale at the JCC discussion each week after Kiddush, and now in Rockville through December 27. (For information about the ArtSites/Tikvat Israel we have it. Lior Golan imagines leading a connection, please see page XX.) On Sunday, December 9, Sephardic service once a month, and soon he HAZAK will be treated to a guided tour of the show, will. conducted by our own Shirley Waxman. We will also have the Elissa Schwartz imagines Shabbat at opportunity to meet and talk to several of the artists. We’ll gather Tikvat Israel that doesn’t start or end with the in the JCC lobby at 10:30 a.m. The tour should take about one service and extends beyond a Kiddush lunch. hour, after which we’ll have the chance to do additional We come to shul because it is our routine to browsing and purchasing, if desired. Please contact the spend Shabbat with our community. synagogue office if you plan to attend. To learn more about Unfamiliar with the traditional Shabbat ArtSites, visit their website at artsitesjudaicguild.org. service? Come to “Learner’s Services” lead by HAZAK Shabbat will be celebrated at TI on Friday, December 21. We will repeat last one of our many knowledgeable congregants. year’s successful Kabbalat Shabbat program, with dinner open to the entire congregation, Don’t much care for the traditional service? followed by our guest speaker. Our speaker will be Gilad Golani, “Partnership 2000” shaliach Try an alternative service that we can offer from the Jewish Agency for Israel {JAFI} to Washington D.C. The topic of his presentation will periodically. Services just aren’t your cup of be “Peoplehood and Homeland.” Please make your reservations early by completing the form tea? Hang in the library or with your kids in on this page and returning it to the office. Don’t miss this outstanding event! the playground and join us for Kiddush lunch. And then stay to discuss the weekly The entire congregation is invited to help celebrate Parshah or for a book club, or just to schmooze while the kids make use of a new playground HAZAK SHABBAT or play board games indoors. Elissa’s vision of a community Our guest speaker will be enjoying Shabbat together is wonderful because it so perfectly reflects the traditions Gilad Golani, “Partnership 2000” Shaliach of Shabbat that we love (or can easily learn to from the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) to Washington, DC love), but because it has room for anyone whose vision is consistent with Conservative His topic will be Judaism’s interpretation of Halachah. As we “Peoplehood & Homeland” plan to implement this vision, we may occasionally include programs available through Synaplex, a Shabbat enrichment Please join us to welcome Shabbat program sponsored by STAR (: Transformation And Renewal). Friday, December 21 Kabbalat Shabbat One of our greatest qualities is that we 6:30 p.m. are always evolving, thanks in no small part to the flexibility of Rabbi Gorin and Cantor Dinner followed by Mr. Golani’s Presentation Helzner. With their guidance, we can think 7:15 p.m. big, and implement in small steps so that we may learn from experience and build momentum. So how do you imagine Shabbat? If you are not a “Shabbat regular,” Yes, I will attend the December 21 Shabbat Dinner what event or activity at would bring you to Tikvat Israel, and if you are, what might keep Name ______you there? Imagine Shabbat, share what you Number of Adults______Number of Children______have imagined with Elissa, and yes, offer to help make what we imagine our reality so Total number of Vegetarian______that we may celebrate this most wonderful day of the week together as a community. Adults: $15 Children (ages 5-13): $6 Total Enclosed______

Please enclose check payable to Tikvat Israel Congregation and return to the office by December 13.

14 ALL IN THE FAMILY

Mazel Tov affection during the last month of October, culminating in the wonderful Lisa, Dan and Ivy Krell on the Bar Mitzvah Shabbat dinner attended by so of their son and brother Isaac many. I am most grateful to the committee Aaron Krell on October 20 at Chizuk who worked so hard on the Amuno, Pikesville, MD whole event. My sincere thanks go to Helen Frank, Tami and Sam Ethel Waltzer on the engagement of her Gilston, Shelly Goldin, Bobbi Gorban, granddaughter Jenifer Rose Seaton Melanie Grishman, Marian and Jesse to Rob Hare Kaiser, Paula Kasper, Barbara and Phil Katz, Dotty and Lou Kornhauser, and Roz Kram Mailbag and Larry Gorban for the delicious dinner, as well as those who helped To the Bereavement Committee, Roz and Larry cook and worked in the Thank you for providing our family with a kitchen. delicious meal during our period Thank you to the officers and board of shiva. It was greatly appreciated. and congregation for the beautiful —The Kristal-Finstein family (Barbara Waterford crystal bowl. It adorns our dining Kristal) room table and is absolutely magnificent! I will never forget your thoughtfulness. Dear Friends, Again, thank you for your support and As always our shul family has been a friendship these last 11 years. source of solace and love. Many thanks to —Susan Newman everyone for everything you did to make this difficult time bearable. To the Bereavement Committee, —Angie Hersh Thank you seems inadequate. The support you gave my brother, sister-in-law and me throughout the entire time Dear Friends, surrounding the death of my mother was Thank you so much for all the cards, letters, truly remarkable. My family and I thank you. gifts and donations to the —Tamah Graber synagogue you sent me on the occasion of my retirement. I will never forget your wonderful outpouring of Directory Update Susan Brannigan 18226 Swiss Circle, #3 Germantown, MD 20874 (202) 247-5161 [email protected]

15 Donations Bereavement Fund In honor of Louise and Chuck Chatlynne’s 40th The Congregation gratefully acknowledges the wedding anniversary following contributions which were received by Susannah Challis and Rich Nisenson from September 18 through October 15, 2007. Donations made on the occasion of yahrtzeit Sophie Berger Fund in memory of: In honor of the Bat Mitzvah of Molly Schneider Benson Kessler by Susan K. Apter by Sue and Jerry Boden

Carl Berger by Henrietta Asen Cantor’s Fund Julius Auerbach by Rae Auerbach In memory of George Simball, husband of Ruth Marion Bauman by Wendy W. Bauman Simball Maurice Berk by Anne A. Berk by Helen Frank Gerda Tuchler by Edna Breit In memory of Adel Belson Erdman by Mae Bernstein Tobie Waxler by Sandy and Ira Broadman In appreciation of Cantor Helzner Martha Flehinger by Elizabeth Chambre by Belle and Bernie Schechter Isadore Parzow by Harriet and Ted Cohen In appreciation of Cantor Helzner’s visit Irving Bryan by Sonya and Maurice Dunie by Victor Battino Alan Eisenberg by Steve Eisenberg Sylvia Gorban Fund David Lieberman by Phylis and Dan Ermann In memory of Fay Halpern, mother of Peggy Morris Fine by Ruth Fine Mitchel Stanley First by Faye First In memory of George Simball, husband of Ruth Simball Sara Goldman by Bob Goldman In memory of Abram Sapozhnikov, father of Irina Michael Goldstein by Bernice G. Grossman Knizhnik Willialm Horwitz by Selma G. Horwitz by Bobbi and Larry Gorban Herman Iskow by Sheldon Iskow Malka Jaffe, Max Apt, Leon Jaffe and Tov General Yehuda Jaffe by Helen and Paul Jaffe In memory of Fay Halpern, mother of Peggy Paul Kasper by Paula and Marvin Kasper Mitchel by Barbara and Phil Katz Jerry J. Brown by Barbara and Phil Katz by Carol and Richard Barsky Celia Kornhauser by Dotty and Lou Kornhauser by Rianne and John Melmed Alex Kreisman by Isidore Kreisman by Susan and Neil Newman by Marian and Jesse Kaiser Tillie Jarcho by Leona Krichefsky In memory of George Simball, husband of Ruth Samuel Kronenberg by Martin J. Kronenberg Simball Leo Kronzek by Andi and Sheldon Kronzek by Carol and Richard Barsky Rae Caplan Mensh by Helene and Elliot Lerner by Marian and Jesse Kaiser Harry Berlin by Sandy and Larry Levine In memory of Joseph Weinberg, father of Bonnie Cowan Claire Licht by Jack Licht and family by Rachelle and Mitchell Solkowitz Lena Moskowitz and Minnie Polansky by Ann For a refuah shlema to Aaron Kimberg and Harry Moskowitz by Harriet and Al Schwartz Benjamin Gorfine by Janet and Gordon In honor of the birth of Pressman grandchildren Oppenheimer by Alan Y. Weiner Tzipa Gordon and Moshe Gordon by Sue and In honor of Rebecca Salon and Jay Goldman Jay Plafker by the residents and staff of Potomac Valley Maurice Pressman by Edith Pressman Nursing and Wellness Center Gussie Reiner by Barbara and Alvin Reiner For a refuah shlema to Marilyn Teitelbaum by Carol and Richard Barsky Louis Sandler by Anne D. Rosenberg In honor of Shelly Goldin becoming Kallah Arthur Spanier and Noach Hoffman by Sharon Bereshit Spanier In honor of Danny Bachman becoming Hattan Ivan Tempchin and Maurice Becker by Edith Torah Tempchin by Barbara and Phil Katz Manny Senzer by Ethel Waltzer by Elyse and Jeff Bernstein by Betty and Cliff Fishman

16 Donations continued In memory of Rosalie Peck Rabbi’s Fund by Elisabeth and Victor Battino In memory of David Chefer For a refuah shlema to Helen Frank by Susan and Neil Newman In memory of David Fineman by Barbara and Phil Katz by Leslie and Aaron Fineman by Sonya and Maurice Dunie In memory of Muriel Joy Horowit, mother of In honor of Rabbi Gorin In honor of the birth of Sarah Anne Semel, Terry Horowit by Rianne and John Melmed granddaughter of Judy and Len Marco by Susan and Neil Newman In memory of Fay Halpern, mother of Peggy by Barbara and Phil Katz by Debby Berlyne and Danny Bachman Mitchel by Dotty and Lou Kornhauser In memory of Arthur Finstein, father of Barbara In memory of George Simball, husband of Ruth by Susan and Neil Newman Kristal Simball In honor of Susan Newman’s retirement by Dorothy M. O’Brien by Rebecca Salon and Jay Goldman by Sandy and Larry Levine by Sonya and Maury Dunie In honor of High Holiday Aliyah by Helen Frank In memory of Robin Butin by Bernice G. Grossman by Dotty and Lou Kornhauser by Jackie and Joel Hoffman by Barbara and Phil Katz In honor of the New Year In memory of Joseph Weinberg, father of by Mulitz-Gudelsky Family by Carol Kaplan Bonnie Cowan by Jayme Sokolow In memory of Rabbi Leivy Smolar, brother of For Jewish African Communities by Marian and Jesse Kaiser Naomi Kaplan by Sylvia Grob by Mike Schwartz In memory of Arthur Finstein, father of Barbara In appreciation of Rabbi Gorin by Joyce and Arnie Schwartz Kristal by Michele and Steve Eisenberg by Bernice Grossman In memory of Robert Oakley, father of Esther by Eileen McGuckian by Barbara Harshberger and Daniel Oakley by Nancy and Jonathan Solomon In appreciation of Rabbi Gorin’s visit Welcome to our new Executive Director, Michael by Bess and Bud Lavine by Victor Battino Grossman by Howard Chernoff by Betty and Cliff Fishman by Marian and Linc Hallen Religious School Fund by Michele and Steve Eisenberg In honor of Robert Katz’s special birthday In honor of the birth of Tamar Hannah Romm by Andi and Sheldon Kronzek In memory of Carol Peck, sister of Roy Peck and Rafael Moshe Romm, grandchildren of Gale by Becky and Aaron Leavey In memory of Norma Honick, sister of Mae and Marc Pressman by Paula and Marvin Kasper Berstein by Sandy and Larry Levine Sophie Steinberg by Toby and Melvyn Altman by Amy and Daniel Matathias High Holiday Aliyah Torah Fund by Barbara and Irv Cohen Phil Katz In memory of Fay Halpern, mother of Peggy by Janaki Kuruppu and Ron Rabin Joel Kristal Mitchel by Tami and Sam Gilston Ellen Sweet and Irv Gutman by Sandy and Larry Levine by Charlotte Kopp Rianne and John Melmed by Rose Rom In honor of High Holiday Aliyah Gertrude Krick by Louise and Chuck Chatlynne by Howard M. Berman Karen Cohen by Shelly and Bruce Goldin Marian and Jesse Kaiser In honor of Danny Bachman being honored as by Elyse and Jeff Bernstein Sue and Howard Wilchins Hattan Torah by Beverly and Steve Stryker Janice Balin by Sandy and Larry Levine by Annabelle and Barry Jaffe Len Lipton by Sara and David Harris In memory of Arthur Finstein, grandfather of Edward Nussbaum; Elisabeth Battino by Melanie Grishman and Herman Flax Sharon Beth Kristal Andi and Sheldon Kronzek by Sue and Howard Wilchins by Kenneth Birrell Joan and Don Margolies by Ricardo Gomez Julie Boynton and Michael Rubinstein TI Woman’s Jewish Network by Laurie and Len Lipton In memory of Rose Blonder, mother of Bobbi by Judy and Len Marco Kiddush Fund by Ellen and Sherman Eisner Gorban by Francine and Richard Cohen In honor of Shelly Goldin being honored as Kallah by Brenda and Keith Brooks Bereshit by Hilda Springer In honor of Shelly Goldin being honored as Kallah by Mary and Neil Meyerson In honor of Danny Bachman being honored as Bereshit by Betty and Cliff Fishman Hattan Torah by Sandy and Larry Levine by Judean Memorial Gardens by Susan and Neil Newman by Myra and Larry Promisel by Regina and Sam Speigel by Phyllis Leise by Rhoda Sakolsky Youth & Family Progamming by Leslie and Allan Slan New Landscaping Fund In honor of the birth of Maya Ruth and Ziv Moshe by Marlene and Steve Leavey Elyse and Jeff Bernstein Golan, grandchildren of Barbara Milenky by Marilyn and Len Teitelbaum by Marilyn Fliegler by Doris Curchack Rebecca Salon and Jay Goldman In memory of Adam Rothstein, brother of Dana by Sam and Penina Freedenberg Joan and Don Margolies by Susan and Alan Apter Rothstein by Sue and Martin Urban Herman J. Flax Library by Kol Shalom Congregation by Judy and Marvin Waldman In appreciation of refuah shlema prayers by Denise and Howard Dickinson by David W. Harris by Rianne and John Melmed by Diane Gardsbane and Paul Sully

17 Tikvat Israel remembers with respect those whose yahrzeits occur from 20 Cheshvan to 20 Kislev • November 2007

20 CHESHVAN/November 1 2 KISLEV/November 12 9 KISLEV/November 19 18 KISLEV/November 28 Jennie Jaffe Flax Alick Abramson Doris Amster Bobbie Leman May Kronenberg Golda Becker Shirley Blau Anna Levin Martin Rosenlicht Manuel Cohen Fred Curchack Max Wottitzky Helene Kopp Shirley Fishman /November 29 Myra Pasternak Reuben Lapin Eric Gerstle 21 CHESHVAN/November 2 Sam Schuchman Rose Oppenheim Levin Jeanette Sohn David Joseph First Jean Zalevsky Ezra Menachem Marcus Joseph Spiegelberg Bertha Greenfield Moe A. Robinson Max Klein 3 KISLEV/November 13 20 KISLEV/November 30 Martha Lohwasser Florence Cohen 10 KISLEV/November 20 Riva Fishman Ann Rubin Jesse Curchack Jack Bodner Sam Hendler Sidney Teitelbaum Leonard Hardis Rose Hamburger Sarah Kensky Muriel Sandler 22 CHESHVAN/November 3 Miriam Stein Rachel Armoza 11 KISLEV/November 21 Stefan Zweig 4 KISLEV/November 14 Bernard Sulsky Herbert Brotman 23 CHESHVAN/November 4 Bessie Bachman 5 KISLEV/November 15 12 KISLEV/November 22 Ben Frank Jacob Bernstein Fannie Fleitman Oscar Mitchael Lifshutz Jerome Feingold Florence Lyons Amy Strong Mollie Kaprow Alfons Reich Kurt Tuchler Morris Pachenker Louis Pelish 13 KISLEV/November 23 24 CHESHVAN/November 5 Henrietta Roth Henry Aronson Abraham Bernstein Toby Baum Joseph Bernstein 6 KISLEV/November 16 Louis Kensky Borushok Rosemary Birrell Beryl Newman Hyman Gardsbane Rose Fischer William W. Radin Ellen Halpern Paul Flacks Moishe Horelick Gordon Miller 14 KISLEV/November 24 Jack Sheskin Samuel Altschuler 26 CHESHVAN/November 7 Harry Weil Norman Belasco Howard Blafkin Daniel Kaiser Sam Krick 7 KISLEV/November 17 Jack Rosen Bernard Cohen 15 KISLEV/November 25 Yetta Finkelstein Isidor Schechter 27 CHESHVAN/November 8 David Fleitman Samuel Braunstein Nathan Halpern 16 KISLEV/November 26 Nathan Cohen Robert Kandalis Elizabeth Jennes Meyer David Green Ernest Nash Irvin Lerner Philip Grossmann Harry Ohr Florence Nachamkin Rachel Maran Nicky Papageorge Resel Zeidman 8 KISLEV/November 18 Samuel Salit Ellen Berman 29 CHESHVAN/November 10 Sophye Cohen 17 KISLEV/November 27 Condolences Herb Curchack Samuel Rosenberg Harry Brodofsky Max Feinsilber Tamah Graber on the death of /November 11 Dr. Theodore L. Tetenbaum Rebecca Gershowitz her mother, Belle Meyers Marvin Apter Max Glick Zenita Berman Abe Lavine Denny Kanuck on the death of Pearl Fink Charlotte Lowenfeld her father, Joey Pearl Edward Hallen Lilian Lowenfeld Rose Kopp Sharon Silberberg

18 SAVE THE DATE • “A HELZNER HAPPENING” CANTOR’S CONCERT • SUNDAY, DEC. 2 • 4 P.M. • SEE PAGE 6 FOR DETAILS. Cheshvan 20, 5768 - Kislev 20, 5768 November 2007

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 6:45 AM Minyan 6:45 AM Minyan 9:30 AM Shabbat 7:30 PM Minyan 6:30 PM Services Kabbalat 8:00 PM Israeli Shabbat Dancing 10:30 AM Jr. Congregation 7:15 PM Shabbat is 12:30 PM Special Shabbat Study

4 5 6 7 8 9 10 NO RELIGIOUS SCHOOL 6:45 AM Minyan 7:30 PM Minyan 7:30 PM Minyan 6:45 AM Minyan 6:45 AM Minyan Leor Newman Bar Mitzvah 8:00 PM Adult Education 9:00 AM Minyan 7:30 PM Minyan 8:00 PM Adult 8:00 PM Adult with Rabbi Gorin - 6:30 PM 11:00 AM Flu Shot Clinic Education with Education with Jewish Literacy 101 Kabbalat 9:30 AM Shabbat 8:00 PM Rabbi Gorin - Rabbi Lipsky Shabbat Services Meditation 5:45 PM Board Meeting Whither? 8:00 PM Israeli Dancing 12:30 PM Shabbat 7:30 PM Minyan Wither? Study 8:00 PM Environmental Committee - Global 8:00 PM Toastmasters 6:15 PM ECC - Warming Program Havdallah and Election Day Pajama Party

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 9:00 AM Minyan 6:45 AM Minyan 7:30 PM Minyan 7:30 PM Minyan 6:45 AM Minyan 6:45 AM Minyan 9:30 AM Shabbat Services 10:00 AM Adult Ed - 7:30 PM Minyan 8:00 PM Shul 8:00 PM 7:30 PM Minyan 6:30 PM Israel at 60 - Singers with Women's Kabbalat 10:15 AM Yachad Breakfast Series 8:00 PM 8:00 PM Israeli Cantor Helzner Jewish Network Shabbat 11:00 AM Kehillat Meditation Dancing 2:00 PM Hazak Book Group Kids 7:15 PM 7:30 PM Minyan 11:00 AM Tot Congregational Shabbat 8:00 PM Women's Shabbat Dinner Rosh Chodesh Honoring New 12:30 PM Shabbat Study Group Members Study 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 9:00 AM Minyan 6:45 AM Minyan 7:30 PM Minyan 7:00 PM Kadima 9:00 AM 6:45 AM Minyan 9:30 AM and USY Minyan Shabbat 10:00 AM Religious 7:30 PM Minyan 8:00 PM Adult 6:30 PM School Grades 3 - 7 Program Services Parent and Teacher Education with 7:30 PM Minyan Kabbalat Conferences 8:00 PM Rabbi Gorin - Shabbat Meditation 7:30 PM Minyan 12:30 PM Whither? Shabbat Study 7:30 PM Minyan Wither?

7:30 PM Thanksgiving Sing at SSPC Thanksgiving Day

25 26 27 28 29 30 9:00 AM Minyan 6:45 AM Minyan 7:30 PM Minyan 7:30 PM Minyan 6:45 AM Minyan 6:45 AM Minyan 7:30 PM Minyan 7:30 PM Minyan 7:30 PM Minyan 6:30 PM Kabbalat 8:00 PM 8:00 PM Israeli Shabbat Meditation Dancing

Tikvat Israel Congegation, 2200 Baltimore Road, Rockville, MD 20851 (301) 762-7338

19 TIKVAT ISRAEL CONGREGATION NON-PROFIT ORG. 2200 BALTIMORE ROAD ROCKVILLE, MD 20851 U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 147 ROCKVILLE, MD

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