SHERITH MAY–AUGUST, 2019 NEWS Is democracy good for the Jews? CSI RECEIVES GRANT TO SUPPORT DEMOCRACY PROGRAMMING Sherith Israel will host a year-long series of programs to they were discovered and exposed to modern Jewish practices. explore ’s relationship to democratic values and in- In addition to sharing Judeo-Ugandan music at Shabbat ser- stitutions. The program, entitled “Democracy and Resistance vices, Rabbi Sizomu spoke about the challenging history of Through a Jewish Lens,” is underwritten by the Laszlo N. Tau- the . He highlighted their trials during the regime ber Family Foundation. of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin. Because Amin attempted to de- Rabbi Jessica Graf, who worked with the Tauber Foundation stroy the tiny Jewish community, including by burning syna- to develop the program, described it as a scholar-in-residence gogues, many Abayudaya converted to Christianity or Islam. series. She sees it as an opportunity to explore Jewish perspec- Those who refused to convert went underground, practicing tives on democracy and democratic values both in the United Judaism in secret. Their children were not allowed to attend States and in other countries. school. With Amin’s fall in 1979, the remnant Abayudaya com- munity emerged and began to grow. The initial speaker, Rabbi Gershom Sizomu, leader of the Aba- yudaya Jewish community of , addressed the congrega- Rabbi Sizomu currently serves as a representative to Uganda’s tion at Shabbat services on April 12. The Abayudaya adopted parliament. His constituency consists primarily of his Chris- Judaism in the early 20th century when they were approached tian and Moslem neighbors, illustrating the importance for by Christian missionaries. Exposed to both the Hebrew and Jewish communities to maintain strong relationships with oth- Christian Bibles, they decided to follow the original source. er groups. He also noted the necessity of political engagement Having no exposure to rabbinic Judaism as it had developed in as a key to protecting the rights of Jewish and other minorities. post-biblical times, they evolved their own set of practices until Democracy Programming continues, page 4

MARK YOUR CALENDAR! RABBI MARTIN WEINER LECTURE With Rabbi Lawrence Englander Democracy & Resistance Through a Jewish Lens: Israeli Songs of Protest FRIDAY, June 14, 7:30 pm SF Giants Jewish Heritage Night TUESDAY, August 27

INSIDE: A Moment with Rabbi Jessica Graf 2 4 Questions for Rabbi Abby Phelps 3 Behind the Scenes with Gordon Gladstone 5 Incoming CSI president Lindsay Braunig 5 Remembering Rabbi Larry Raphael 6 What’s Happening 8–9 Profile: Rebekah Alessi 10 News Nosh 11 RABBI EMERITUS LARRY RAPHAEL, who served as Sherith Israel’s senior rabbi Tikkun Olam 12 from 2003–16, died on March 17. His contributions to our synagogue community— Passages 13 and to the Reform movement—were many. For an overview, see page 6. Annual Fund Donations 14–15 A MOMENT WITH RABBI JESSICA GRAF

2266 California Street San Francisco, CA 94115 MORAL COURAGE IN ACTION T: 415.346.1720 This March, I completed the American of opportunities for women in Guatema- F: 415.673.9439 Jewish World Service Global Justice lan society. Even with education, job op- Fellowship. AJWS helps the American portunities for women are very limited. www.sherithisrael.org Jewish community respond to global The other group consists of Mayan Member of the Union for poverty, supporting NGOs in many na- Reform Judaism since 1903 midwives working in small communi- tions to address their citizens’ human ties where women have little access to and civil rights. Over the last six months, CLERGY basic healthcare. In addition to provid- Jessica Zimmerman Graf the AJWS fellowship enabled 15 rabbis ing medical care, the midwives serve as Senior Rabbi to study, learn and travel. We explored Abby Phelps social activists. They encourage women the idea of “moral courage”—how ordi- Rabbi Educator to demand basic rights: safety for them- nary people act in extraordinary ways David Frommer selves and their children, clean drinking Cantor despite personal risk. water and sufficient nutrition. EMERITUS CLERGY We first met in New York, which allowed The courageous people we met in Gua- Martin Weiner Rabbi Emeritus us to get to know each other and begin Martin Feldman Cantor Emeritus temala inspired us to think more deeply conversations that guided us throughout about what we can do at home. We were BOARD OF TRUSTEES the fellowship. In January, we spent a reminded that our Jewish values compel OFFICERS week in Guatemala, witnessing inspir- us to engage in the ongoing pursuit of Craig Etlin, President ing moral courage in action. We spoke Lindsay Braunig, Vice President justice. The fellowship’s final gathering with leaders of five NGOs working to Katie Zier, Treasurer took place in Washington, D.C. We met Karen Zelmar, Assistant Treasurer save lives and ensure personal dignity with our congressional representatives Erik Migdail, Secretary for all people. We were privileged to Evan Kletter, Immediate Past President and some government organizations to meet real heroes. TRUSTEES learn how U.S. policies impact people Claire Davis They included lawyers working against throughout the world. Dan Dohan all odds to bring more transparency and Michael Gaines The fellowship had a great impact, chal- justice to Guatemala’s corrupt legal sys- Gale Gottlieb lenging us to reflect on our roles as Jerry Hurwitz tem. We listened to journalists, who risk congregational leaders. Not everyone is Joan Libman their lives daily to report on government Alan Mirviss called upon to exercise the moral cour- abuse and corruption. We heard stories Stacy Passman age we saw in Guatemala, but Judaism Liat Sadler from indigenous farmers whose families teaches us to support the work of those Judie Wexler had been killed during decades of armed Amy Widdowson who have stepped up against injustice. internal conflict. STAFF There is much work to be done to ensure Gordon Gladstone Perhaps most impactful were visits that all people live with dignity and free- Executive Director to two NGOs working to enhance the dom. The challenge can feel overwhelm- Jonathan Dimmock rights of women in Guatemalan soci- ing, but Judaism is wise. The Mishna Music Director ety. One group helps families under- teaches, “the work ahead is great and Nia Taylor stand the importance of educating their you are not obligated to finish it. But nei- Development Manager girls. The group’s leaders were young ther are you free to desist from it.” Natalie Weizman n Youth Program Manager and hopeful—and honest about the lack Rabbi Samantha Kahn Director, Sherith Littles Peter Bonos Program Manager PEOPLE OF THE BOOK Corey Christopher Office Manager “When you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap all the way to the edges of your field . . .” — Vayikra (Leviticus) 19:9 SHERITH ISRAEL NEWS David Newman, Ellen Newman, David Perlstein We have a responsibility to help others Plaut points out that the commandment Editors in need. Leviticus commands us to leave does not appeal to a landowner’s gener- Susan Weeks Graphic Design some of our harvest for the poor and the osity; it is not, in effect, optional. “It is David Frommer, David Newman, Ellen Newman, stranger. (The commandment is repeat- perhaps the oldest declaration that dis- Larry Rosenberg, Nancy Sheftel-Gomes ed in Lev. 23:22 and, adding olives and advantaged members of society have a Photographers grapes, in Deut. 24:19ff.) Rabbi Gunther right to support from that society . . .” n 2 Questions for RABBI ABBY PHELPS

This past school year has been filled with experimentation and evaluation for Studio, Sherith Israel’s new art- and project-centered youth education program, and for Rabbi Phelps, our new rabbi educator. We asked her what our children have learned—and what she learned, too.

Q: What’s your take on Studio’s first year? Q: How about our teens? It’s a tricky time in kids’ A: It has gone well. I’ve been delighted to get to know our lives. core of talented, loyal, engaged teachers, and our fantas- A: Yes, and our teen programs are going well. Historically, tic youth programs manager, Natalie Weizman. I’ve also our 7th graders through high schoolers had two main points learned that many families feel like Sherith Israel is their— of engagement: SITY, our teen youth group offering social and their children’s—second home, a great thing to build and service-oriented events, and our madrichim program, on. Our program has grown. Participants tell me they’re enabling teens to assist Studio teachers. Madrichim used enjoying it. We’ll develop more arts- and project-based to spend part of their day learning together, which pulled components for next year. them away from their work as helpers. This year, we profes- sionalized the program. Madrichim always help out in the Q: What creative approaches have you classroom during Studio. And we added Teens @ Studio, introduced? bringing teens together twice monthly on Friday nights or A: I’ve been very focused on Hebrew. Learning a second Sunday afternoons to learn, pray and share a meal. language in one meeting a week is difficult, so we’ve ex- Teens face so much stress, especially with a crazily com- perimented. We’ve taken inspiration from #OnwardHe- petitive college admissions process. We try to create an en- brew, a movement advocating sound-to-print learning— vironment where they can talk about what bothers them how children naturally acquire language. First they hear, and decompress. Next year, they’ll meet only for Friday- then they understand and begin to speak. Only later do night learning/worship/dinner programs that will nour- they read and write. For Studio, this means lots of Hebrew ish them intellectually, spiritually, and socially—and give in t’filah and singing; relating Hebrew words to physical them more Sunday time to themselves. movements, like adding hand motions to prayers and do- The key is meeting teens—and all young people—where ing Aleph Bet yoga; and waiting until about 4th grade to they are, making their interests our entry points for learn- focus on decoding—sounding out written Hebrew. Our pre- ing. This year, our teens wanted a zombie apocalypse- schoolers have been learning the Sh’ma—in Hebrew—with themed event. We helped them organize one. It included hand motions that show words’ meanings. Now, they help text study about Jewish views on death, dying and the af- me lead the Sh’ma in t’filah and practice for their parents terlife, and a zombie-escape game that took them all over at home. We’ll build even more spoken and physicalized the building. We even got board members to play zombies. Hebrew into next year’s program. We’ve also integrated one or more big creative projects Q: We’ve brought back confirmation. How’s that into every grade’s curriculum, from making chanukiot and going? other usable ritual objects with our preschoolers to hand- A: Great! Confirmation lets teens articulate how they con- ing our 7th graders the reins for our Purim spiel. Our com- nect with Judaism, how it informs their lives. It’s been a bined 2nd/3rd-grade class made vegetarian soup, sold it pleasure to hear their thoughts. This year’s confirmation and gave the $300 in proceeds to the SF-Marin Food Bank. class used the Friday-night liturgy as a jumping-off point In the process, they learned Jewish values around food, for discussing Jewish ideas and values. We give our teens environmentalism and feeding the hungry. Our 5th graders space to talk about the burning issues in their lives, what- learned about holiness by designing, building and decorat- ever troubles or challenges them. We’ve had some really ing their own “holiness hideout”—a kind of mini-taberna- interesting, free-wheeling discussions. cle. Our 6th-grade curriculum is essentially b’nai mitzvah boot camp. It included making illuminated texts of prayers This year’s confirmation ceremony will be part of our June 7 and a field trip to the Contemporary Jewish Museum to Friday evening worship for the congregation. Each confir- explore questions of identity through portraiture. mand will speak from the heart on what Judaism means to them. Natalie and I are really enjoying making connec- tions with each of our confirmands and teens. We’re ex- cited about what’s happening at Sherith Israel. n

3 DEMOCRACY PROGRAMMING, from page 1 The series’ second speaker was Rabbi David Ellenson, past president and chancellor emeritus of Hebrew Union College- Jewish Institute of Religion. He conducted a study session on truth-telling, lying and deception for members of CSI’s Circle of Friends on April 14. Based on an article he is writing, Rabbi Ellenson stated, “Lying would seem to have a corrosive im- pact on the integrity and trust that many of us have in public offices within our country.” Jewish sources, he said, are nuanced. Many treat truth as the highest ideal. “Truth is the seal of God,” according to one Tal- mudic source. Other sources condone deception if it promotes peace between people. How then, he asked, do you adjudicate TRUTH HAS CONSEQUENCES: Rabbi David Ellenson when there are conflicting values and principles at stake? (center), with Cantor David Frommer and Rabbi Jessica Rabbi Graf notes that the first two speakers already demon- Graf. Rabbi Ellenson, past president and chancellor strate the breadth of issues that Sherith Israel’s series will emeritus of Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of explore. The next two speakers will broaden the conversa- Religion, spoke to the Sherith Israel Circle of Friends on tion. On May 6, Rabbi Ed Feinstein, senior rabbi of Valley April 14 as part of our series on Democracy and Resistance Beth Shalom in Encino, California, will speak on democracy Through a Jewish Lens. He discussed truth-telling, lying and and resistance in America as seen through a Jewish lens. deception in public life. Rabbi Larry Englander will deliver the annual Rabbi Martin Weiner Lecture on June 11, discussing songs and poetry that were created by Israeli resistance movements. Rabbi England- have thrived in open democratic societies. This is a matter of er is founding rabbi and rabbi emeritus of Solel Congregation our security as a community. Moreover, the Jewish command in Mississauga, Ontario, and adjunct rabbi at Temple Sinai in to pursue justice means safeguarding those values and institu- Toronto. tions that protect all vulnerable communities.” “We wanted to take a broad Jewish look at democracy and Rabbi Graf is deeply grateful to the Tauber Foundation for resistance throughout history and around the world,” Rabbi supporting our democracy programming. “The foundation Graf says, “so that we could apply the general wisdom to our wanted to give Sherith Israel the freedom to create program- current situation in America.” Other speakers and programs ming,” she says. She adds that, during her tenure and the pre- are in the works. vious tenure of Rabbi Larry Raphael, the foundation provided hundreds of thousands of dollars in support of our religious Sherith Israel’s program is part of a larger concern among lo- school, adult programming and the seismic retrofit. cal Jewish organizations about threats to American democra- cy and the Jewish response to those threats. David Newman, “We’ve been blessed that such a generous supporter of Jewish former CSI board president and currently chair of the Jewish life in the Bay Area sees Sherith Israel as an integral part of Community Relations Council’s public policy committee, this Jewish community. We are a stronger and more vital com- comments that JCRC has been developing a policy statement munity because of that support.” on protecting democracy. “We see the threats to democracy From the foundation’s perspective, this was an opportunity to as a core concern for the Jewish community,” he says. “Jews foster Sherith Israel and the work that Rabbi Graf and Cantor David Frommer are doing. Says foundation president Ingrid Tauber, “We wanted to bring people into the synagogue for programming that was intellectual and scholarly.” n

AFRICAN VISITOR: Rabbi Gershom Sizomu of Uganda’s Abayudaya Jewish community brought his music and his people’s history to Shabbat services at Sherith Israel on April 12. Rabbi Sizomu, a member of Uganda’s parliament, was the leadoff speaker in CSI’s series on Democracy and Resistance Through a Jewish Lens. 4 BEHIND THE SCENES WITH GORDON GLADSTONE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

IN PRAISE OF LAY LEADERSHIP In the world of nonprofit profession- everything else together. In my 25 years leader of Sherith Israel’s seismic retrofit. als, we often talk about lay leaders as of Jewish communal work I have had Craig is a rare lay leader who is both at- belonging to three different groups: the pleasure, and occasional frustration, tentive to detail and mindful of the larger donors, connectors and doers. Donors of working with dozens of committee vision as we move forward. He has been are obvious: they provide the funds ev- chairs, board members, presidents and an invaluable resource to me in learn- ery nonprofit needs to sustain its work. other volunteers. Working with a board ing the Sherith Israel community and a Donor cultivation in larger organizations chair or a president is a balance of tak- critical part of Sherith Israel's navigation is often the province of dedicated staff ing direction, giving advice and promot- of the last twenty years of challenges. members who organize events and op- ing the success of the lay leader and the Craig has been one of the best lay lead- portunities to keep donors engaged and organization. For many nonprofit profes- ers I have worked with, and I cannot say supportive. sionals, that relationship can make or enough how about how fortunate this break a job. community is to have him. The second group—connectors—is less obvious but also important. They are Since coming to Sherith Israel last year, As Craig passes the gavel to Lindsay people who have relationships with I have seen a congregation blessed with Braunig, who has invested a great deal other agencies, foundations and political generous donors, engaged connectors of time and energy preparing for her allies, a critical group to have if the or- and hard-working doers. In particular, tenure, I am certain she also will be an ganization is going to amplify its work in it has been my great pleasure to work outstanding synagogue president. I look the larger community. with Craig Etlin. Craig's term as presi- forward to working with Sherith Israel’s dent ends this May after many years of extraordinary lay leaders—donors, con- That leaves one last key role—those who service on the board of trustees and as nectors and, above all, doers. n do. Doing is the final piece that brings

Passing the gavel LINDSAY BRAUNIG TO BECOME NEXT CSI PRESIDENT When Lindsay Braunig accepts the In a sense, Lindsay’s involvement at LINDSAY BRAUNIG: gavel from Craig Etlin at this year’s an- Sherith Israel is a natural evolution. Welcome our new nual meeting, she will make Sherith Her mother was involved as a lay leader board president Israel history: the first Jew by choice of her church, and Lindsay was a lead- at the CSI Annual to become president of CSI. Her election er in her church youth group. “It’s just Meeting, 6 pm, highlights the embrace that Sherith Isra- a continuation of my family’s legacy,” Tuesday, el seeks to provide everyone who wants she notes. Her husband Warren’s family May 21. to find community under our dome. is heavily involved in the leadership of their synagogue. Lindsay is mindful of the significance of her becoming president. “At first, I felt Lindsay’s goal as president is to “embody a little self-conscious,” she confesses. the philosophy of audacious hospitality. antz, where she specialized in state and Before attending the Scheidt Seminar, I believe in the importance of commu- local tax litigation. She will be supported a URJ Training program for incoming nity. We all need to have people to be in as president by an experienced slate of synagogue presidents, she says, “I kept fellowship with.” She sees Sherith Israel officers. Craig Etlin will stay active as asking myself, ‘Am I the only one? Will as being in a “sweet spot” in terms of vice-president; Erik Migdail will contin- people think it’s weird.’ I needed to ask size—“big enough for robust program- ue as secretary; and Katie Zier and Kar- myself what it meant to me.” ming, but small enough that everyone en Zelmar will share financial steward- can get involved.” She adds, “We are a She found the answer in “the power of ship as treasurer and assistant treasurer. very congregant-driven community.” community.” She explains, “My family Lindsay looks forward to greeting the and I have built a lovely community at Lindsay brings to her new role as presi- congregation for the first time as presi- CSI. It has become meaningful, and I feel dent the strategic strengths she has de- dent at the Annual Meeting, 6 pm, Tues- a desire to give back and help it reach its veloped as a litigator, first at Morrison & day, May 21. n full potential.” Foerster, and later at Silverstein & Pomer- 5 Senior rabbi emeritus led CSI through transition, seismic retrofit LAWRENCE “RABBI LARRY” RAPHAEL REMEMBERED FONDLY Lawrence Raphael, senior rabbi of end camping trips in the San Bernardino leaders had been working on the proj- Sherith Israel from 2003-16, died from Mountains near his native Los Angeles. ect since 2000, a final design had not lymphoma on March 17, 2019. He was On breaking camp, Larry’s father would been settled upon, and only limited fun- 73, surrounded by family in his adopted tell the boys to leave the campsite clean- draising had been done. As the design San Francisco and held in the thoughts er than they found it. That teaching from was finalized, Rabbi Raphael worked of congregants, friends and hundreds of his father remained with Rabbi Raphael closely with the congregation's lay lead- rabbis throughout North America. He is throughout his life. He always worked to ers over his entire tenure to secure the survived by his wife, Terrie, and chil- leave things better, more sound, than he lion’s share of the $16 million in dona- dren, Matthew, Andrew and Rachel. found them. tions and grants that would eventually Larry’s family and friends, congregants be raised. The project was completed in Rabbi Raphael spent three decades at and members of the San Francisco inter- two phases with minimal impact on the the forefront of adult Jewish learning faith community gathered to honor and congregation. and rabbinic training at Hebrew Union celebrate him on May 4. College-Jewish Institute of Religion in “Larry put his heart and soul into fund- Rabbi Raphael came to CSI in July 2003, New York. In his roles as both teacher raising,” said Craig Etlin, outgoing pres- bringing commitment, vision, purpose and dean, Rabbi Raphael got to know ident of CSI and the project’s leader for and faith. He served as the congrega- nearly every Reform rabbi in the U.S. 18 years. “Without his tireless efforts, tion’s ninth senior rabbi since its found- the project would not have become a Creating a life well lived underscored his ing in 1851. His wise, confident leader- reality.” Said campaign co-chair Lynn sermons and teachings: In dealings with ship reflected traits formed at an early Sedway, “The most important gift Larry others, no matter how small, he encour- age. In an interview before his retire- gave me was to awaken and nurture my aged us to try to leave things in better ment in 2016, he recalled that, as a Boy commitment to Judaism. He and I were shape than we found them. For Rabbi Scout, he would accompany his troop also early partners in soliciting essential Raphael, the essence was always what leader father and fellow scouts on week- funds to make the retrofit happen. He Judaism can teach us about how to live increased my comfort in asking for con- our lives, and how we can attempt to be tributions by reminding me that we ask the best of who we are. not for ourselves but for Sherith Israel. Under Rabbi Raphael’s guidance, Sherith I’m a better person and a far better Jew Israel grew as a vibrant center of Jew- thanks to him.” Co-chair David New- ish life in San Francisco. He worked to man added, “One of the privileges of my foster community, connectivity and car- being involved in synagogue leadership ing for one another. Toward that end, he was working with Larry to help preserve made Sherith Israel a spiritual home for Sherith Israel. His leadership was critical interfaith couples and families, Jews of to what we achieved.” diverse orientations and ethnicities, and Building people’s connections with Jews by choice. He initiated a tradition of themselves and something larger also blessing non-Jewish congregants during occupied him. This was evident when- High Holiday services. He took pride in ever Rabbi Raphael spoke from the creating a truly embracing congregation. bimah or met congregants in his study Change and challenge marked Rabbi filled with Judaica and San Francisco Raphael’s tenure. He led the congrega- Giants memorabilia. In his sermons, tion in bringing Sherith Israel’s now- he often spoke about the issue of God’s 114-year-old sanctuary into com- presence in our lives. The question Larry pliance with San Francisco’s strict posed for us was not “Does God exist?” seismic safety requirements. Arriv- but rather ”When have I experienced ing at Sherith Israel, he was aware God in my life?” that the seismic retrofit would be Holy moments were inherent in the life- part of his mandate and a daunting cycle events he led. He experienced sa- one. When he experienced Sher- credness when blessing a couple at their ith Israel’s majestic sanctuary— wedding, when naming a baby, when mahogany-adorned bimah, inspir- blessing a bar- or bat-mitzvah student, ing stained glass reflecting Jewish and when sitting with a family at shiva. history through Californian eyes As a congregational rabbi, he felt he had and splendid dome—he recognized the privilege of helping create these mo- the building’s deep significance to ments and felt most successful when he Sherith Israel and San Francisco. let the moment speak for itself. Although a team of dedicated lay 6 A LEADER IN SO MANY WAYS: Throughout his 13 years as Sherith Israel’s spiritual leader, Rabbi Larry Raphael was at the center of so many congregational celebrations, such as our Hard Hat and Hardly Strictly Shabbats to celebrate retrofit achievements and commemorations of important milestones in the lives of our clergy, like the 80th birthday celebration for Cantor Emeritus Martin Feldman (above). However, most of us remember Larry’s warm, one-to-one touch in moments of joy or sorrow.

A talented teacher, Rabbi Raphael em- moving experiences when students were tenth senior rabbi. Says Rabbi Graf, braced leading Study on Sat- formally welcomed into the Sherith Is- “Larry prided himself on being a teacher urday mornings, teaching evening rael community.” of rabbis. He was a generous mentor and classes and, for several years, hosting wanted those around him to succeed.” Students who became part of the Jewish a successful downtown Talmud study people praised Rabbi Raphael. Said Tam- In retirement, Rabbi Raphael taught at group. “It was a joy to study with Larry,” ar Draper Mahru, “Rabbi Raphael was San Francisco’s Fromm Institute and at said David Perlstein. “He welcomed and encouraging yet challenging, especially Lehrhaus Judaica. He also served on the respected students’ varying opinions, when I was passionate about something board of the San Francisco Interfaith and never took questions as challenges specific. He was a part of every major Council and volunteered as a hospice to his position. The breadth of what he moment in my life over the past seven chaplain. Maintaining his attachment to taught, from Torah and Talmud to po- years.” Collin Edwards added, “I came the pulpit, he served part-time at small etry and fiction, was incredible.” to Sherith Israel looking for community, congregations in Lake Tahoe and Santa Rabbi Raphael also served as team lead- and Rabbi Raphael helped me find it and Ynez along the central coast. er for CSI’s annual Introduction to Ju- be comfortable. At our first meeting, I Rabbi Raphael’s fondness for Six-Word daism course, offered to Jews and non- knew Sherith Israel was where I wanted Memoirs was well known. On his re- Jews alike. The course led more than 50 to be.” tirement, congregants wrote these little individuals to become Jews by choice. For Rabbi Jessica Zimmerman Graf, nuggets to express their gratitude and Lisa Erdberg helped develop the course Rabbi Raphael’s legacy was his guid- love. And he shared his own with us: and taught it with him. “Larry found ance and support as she transitioned particular joy in helping people navigate “Family. Friends. Faith: A Wonderful into her new role as Sherith Israel’s their Jewish journeys. We shared many Life.” n

“Family. Friends. Faith: A Wonderful Life.”

7 SHABBAT WHAT’S HAPPENING SERVICES FRIDAY EVENINGS 6 pm: Kabbalat Shabbat Special Shabbats Adult 7:15 pm: Kiddush and oneg Join us to welcome Shabbat. ✓ IN OUR OWN VOICE ✓ PRIME TIME CLUB National Alliance on Mental Illness Monthly lunch and learn LATE MINYAN Friday, May 31, 7:30 pm Second Fridays, noon–2 pm Cantor David Frommer An educational presentation given by Lunch, $10; presentation only, free May 31, June 21, July 19, August 16 trained volunteer speakers living full and 7:30 pm productive lives while overcoming the June 14: Israel Right Now: CSI execu- Check out our musical minyan in the challenges of mental illness. Get practical, tive director Gordon Gladstone offers a round beneath the majestic dome of useful information about mental illness briefing and leads a discussion of current our historic sanctuary. No microphones. and available treatments. Presented in as- events in Israel. No instruments. Just singing. Infor- sociation with the Chesed Committee. Light July 12: The Impact of Climate Change, mation: Cantor Frommer, dfrommer@ meal provided. presented by Carol Vollen, an activist as- sherithisrael.org. CONFIRMATION sociated with Elders for Climate Change. SATURDAY MORNINGS Friday, June 7 August 9: Shofar Studies 101: Congre- gant Maurice Kamins reveals everything 9:15 am: Torah Study with bagels 6 pm: Confirmation during and lox, coffee and tea. you’ve ever wanted to know about the Kabbalat Shabbat shofar. 10:30 am: Sh’ma Koleynu Shabbat 7:15 pm: Festive oneg morning services—intimate lay- Join us to celebrate our newest group MOVIE GROUP led services using our Mishkan T’filah of confirmands, who will share their Information Session prayerbook. Includes chanting or personal thoughts about what Judaism Sunday, June 2, 12:30 pm reading from our Torah scrolls. means to them. Calling all CSI movie mavens! You are cor- dially invited to join Michael Moss, Mar- ✓ RABBI MARTIN garet Scheinman, Lynn Sedway and Rabbi WEINER ANNUAL Martin Weiner to help organize a monthly YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED LECTURE film discussion group for the fall. Coffee, TO JOIN US FOR OUR Democracy & Resistance: tea and dessert provided. Information ANNUAL Israeli Songs of Protest and RSVP: [email protected] or www.sherithisrael.org. 2019 MEETING and dinner! Rabbi Lawrence Englander Friday, June 14, 7:30 pm TUESDAY, MAY 21, 6 PM Hear and discuss protest songs from the JEWISH BOOK CLUB Get updates about CSI. You must be a aftermath of the 1967 Six-Day War to the Mondays, 7 pm member in good standing. present. Rabbi Lawrence A. Englander May 20: Waking Lions by Ayelet Gunder– is the retired founding rabbi of Solel Goshen. Facilitator: Joan Korenman ✓ Dinner provided. Congregation in Mississauga, Ontario, and Catered by Sunrise Deli. now at Toronto’s Temple Sinai. Sponsored June 24: Annual book selection ses- in part by the Laszlo N. Tauber Family sion. Participants present books (paper- Foundation. Free. Dinner included. back only) with a Jewish theme, author or historical setting. The club will take a KOLEYNU CHOIR— summer break during July and August. Information: Julie House, juliehousesf@ HIGH HOLIDAYS gmail.com. Rehearsals: Tuesdays, June 3–Sept. 24, 7:30–9 pm ADULT INTERMEDIATE HEBREW Cantor David Frommer with Noa Levy Join our congregational choir Koleynu Sundays, 1–2 pm and our professional choristers at all Improve your prayerbook Hebrew as an major services on Rosh Hashanah advanced beginner with a focus on read- and Yom Kippur. No singing ing and deeply understanding prayers in experience required. Cantor David the Siddur. Information: noalevy8@gmail. Frommer, 415.346.1720, x19, or com. Class on break during June. Hours [email protected].

8 subject to change.

✓ SF PRIDE PARADE Sunday, June 29 Market Street, San Francisco Meet 10 am; parade begins 10:30 am AND YOU SHALL TEACH YOUR CHILDREN: Families with babies and toddlers Be part of the URJ delegation at San Francisco’s iconic, festive Pride Parade. gave their children a first taste of Passover at a Sherith Littles pre-Pesach We’ve marched together for more than program. CSI treasurer Katie Zier and her children play with a stuffed Seder plate five years. (left), while Cantor David Frommer and Sherith Littles director Rabbi Samantha Kahn part a Red Sea made of blue towels for the toddlers to pass through. ✓ JEWISH HERITAGE NIGHT— S.F. GIANTS Tuesday, August 27 4:30 pm: Pre-game party Youth Education Young Families 6:45 pm: vs. Arizona Diamondbacks Root for the Giants, get a special gift and SECOND-HOME SHABBAT SHERITH LITTLES PARK MEETUPS enjoy pre-game festivities. Cantor David PROGRAM & DINNER Saturdays, May 25, June 22, July 20 Frommer leads off with a home-run Friday, May 31, 5:30–8 pm 10:30 am–12:30 pm, Lafayette Park rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Explore all that Shabbat evening offers, Cantor David Frommer leads a creative, Tickets for infield seats: $TBA. joining the Sherith Israel community for fun musical service for children under 5, the first part of Kabbalat Shabbat servic- their families and friends. Includes plush es, then bringing our Shabbat experience Torah toys and reading from the Torah. Community Support to the dinner table to learn about and Kosher snacks provided. practice rituals for celebrating Shabbat at HAMOTZI & CHICKEN SOUPERS home. Dinner served. Register with Rabbi FAMILY SHABBAT DINNERS HaMotzi: Phelps, [email protected], or at Fridays, June 7, July 5, August 2, 5 pm Sundays, 9:30 am–12:30 pm sherithisrael.org. Enjoy a lively family Shabbat with Cantor David Frommer and Rabbi Jessica Graf Chicken Soupers: FIRST DAY OF followed by a congregational vegetarian Sundays, monthly, noon–4 pm STUDIO @ SHERITH ISRAEL dinner. June 2, July 7, August 4, Sept. 8 Sunday, Sept. 8, 9:30 am–12:30 pm HaMotzi volunteers prepare meals for SHERITH LITTLES SHABBAT two shelters in San Francisco each week. FIRST DAY OF TEENS @ STUDIO AT THE BEACH Chicken Souper volunteers cook and Friday, Sept. 13, 5–8 pm Saturday, August 31, 10:30 am deliver meals monthly for clients of Jewish Teens will participate in a special program Crissy Field–West Bluff Family and Children’s Services. To shop, just for them, attend Friday night services Give your family a lively Shabbat morning pick up donations, cook or deliver: Nancy and enjoy dinner together. with Cantor David Frommer and Rabbi Sheftel-Gomes, [email protected]. Jessica Graf. Bring a blanket and beach toys, and pack a lunch and snacks. CHESED STUDIO WELCOME (BACK) BBQ We support one another during times of Sunday, Sept. 22, 10:30 am–1:00 pm Say hello to old friends and meet new need, celebration or transition. Par- ones at our kickoff BBQ. We’ll learn, play ✓ = REGISTRATION REQUIRED ticipate in sustaining the warmth and and, of course, eat lunch together in inclusiveness we value at CSI. If you or Three ways to register: one of San Francisco’s beautiful parks. someone you know in the congregation can 1. ONLINE www.sherithisrael.org/programs Location TBD. Register with Rabbi Phelps, benefit from support, contact Nia Taylor: [email protected], or 2. EMAIL [email protected] [email protected]. If you can offer sherithisrael.org. 3. PHONE 415.346.1720 an occasional visit, meal, or ride, contact Janet Parker: [email protected].

LET ALL WHO ARE HUNGRY: At our congregational second-night seder (page 8, right), more than 190 people shared a meal prepared by HaMotzi volunteers like Christina Jefferson (page 8, left). The seder is the annual fundraiser for CSI’s HaMotzi and Chicken Soupers programs. This year‘s event raised close to $10,000, nearly half of HaMotzi’s annual budget. Thanks to everyone who supported the event, and yasher koach to the volunteers who made it happen: Estuardo Arevalo, Luis Arevalo, Ruth Auerbach, Heath Connell, Katherine Delaney, John Dellar, Julie Driscoll and Christina Jefferson, Stephanie Galinson, Bradley Graham, Van Hart, Julie House, Evelyn Jaffe, Valerie and Thierry Jahan, Lynn and Ron Laupheimer, Michelle Levenson, Carrie Ann Lopez, Zachary Migdail, Patti Morse, Shira Shore, Mary and David Sperber, Marcia Spith, Nia Taylor, Roz Tolson and Aliyah Whitney. 9 CSICONGREGATION SHERITH ISRAEL

Bringing heart and hands to Sherith Israel people PROFILE: REBEKAH ALESSI People who march to their own drum- Rebekah calls her own learning style Rebekah was convinced she would do no beat often make music for all to hear. “non-linear,” meaning that she likes to such thing. But when the baby arrived, Shabbat mornings at Congregation improvise. “I take things as they come,” Rebekah looked at her face and thought Sherith Israel, Rebekah Alessi shares she says. “There’s joy in being open to she had “lips like roses.” That kindled original songs she has composed for the what’s going on right now.” a memory of something her mother, Sh’ma Koleynu Torah service. Her pro- Selma, shared with her not long before For Rebekah, Sherith Israel is a place cess: The holy words come first, then the her death. Rebekah relates, “Selma had where her own sense of wonder illu- melody arrives to support them, moving a dream where she held a beautiful baby minates her worship and teaching, and from heart to hands. “My hands know with lips like roses.” where her husband, Gary, who is not what to do,” Rebekah says of her creative Jewish, is welcome. “I feel part of some- So Shoshanah it was. Fittingly, her “S” process. “I like to wait and see what thing bigger than me,” Rebekah says. name honors her grandmother Selma, shows up.” “This temple is humble and human. This while the "H" at the end of her name Rebekah shows up for Sherith Israel in is the right place for us.” honors her great-grandmother Hanah. many solid, supportive ways. In addition Now, 16-year-old Shoshanah is active Sherith Israel came into the Alessi fam- to assisting the lay-led Sh’ma Koleynu in Studio. On Shabbat mornings she fre- ily’s life 17 years ago, shortly after Re- service, Rebekah teaches Hebrew to quently accompanies her mother in song bekah’s mother had passed and before her fifth-grade students at Studio @ Sherith and prayer. daughter, Shoshanah, was born. Cantor Israel, our Jewish education program for Emeritus Martin Feldman officiated at Rebekah observes that the synagogue preschool through high school. her mother’s funeral, and he and the Ales- is a grounding presence. This is why In striving to foster students’ individual- sis became close. Says Rebekah, “Cantor Sherith Israel is so important to her and ism and creativity, Rebekah embraces the Feldman is a very special person to me. how it has enriched her family. She val- idea that people have different learning As soon as I saw Cantor Feldman, I got ues CSI’s authenticity, its non-judgmen- styles. To her, the best teachers help stu- the same peace as being with my mom.” tal openness that allows a self-described dents find their own rhythm so that learn- improvisational, non-linear person to be Rebekah and Gary became more in- ing becomes joyful and self-generated. herself. volved with Sherith Israel when their “Everyone is born with the Torah in- baby was due and they wanted to build This makes sense for a student of the side of them,” Rebekah says. “I have a a Jewish life. What they couldn’t know world like Rebekah, who majored in ge- connection; I encourage them to have a is the sweetly special way Sherith Israel ography in college. Geography, she ex- connection too. I don’t tell them how to would help them along. Rebekah at the plains, tells us where we are in the world be Jewish. Each kid has their own way. time was taking an adult bat-mitzvah and where we might go. It roots us in I want to leave that intact, and maybe class and a “La Mazl Tov” class for ex- place and encourages us to wander, but then I can be a witness to them seeing pecting parents. She was friendly with it also opens a door for us to explore our- their own Judaism.” Stephen Kahn, then associate rabbi at selves, our heritage, and in this case, our CSI. What to name the baby came up Judaism. Geography reassures us that in conversation, and Rabbi Kahn said, wherever we are in the world, we are not “You’re going to have a girl and lost and not alone—especially when we name her Shoshanah,” Hebrew for carry a spiritual compass that points to rose. Sherith Israel. “I see how important it is to be part of a community where people want you to be your best self,” Rebekah says. “This is my temple. I feel so at home, and God is always here.” n

SHOWING UP FOR CSI: Rebekah Alessi (center), with daughter Shoshanah and husband Gary, value Sherith Israel’s authenticity and openness. Rebekah teaches 5th- grade Hebrew and composes songs for Sh’ma Koleynu, our lay-led Saturday morning minyan. 10 news nosh

azel tov to Cantor David From- ore author news: David Perlstein abbi Jessica Graf’s op-ed in the Mmer, an Army National Guard Mhas brought outCSI his short-story RJ., “Guatemalan midwives taught chaplain—the only cantor to hold this collection, Big Truth (available on Ama- me the meaning of moral courage,” position—who this March was promot- zon). He’ll host a launch party Sunday describes her January visit to the ed to major. On duty, Chaplain From- afternoon, June 9 at Lokma Turkish country as a Global Justice Fellow with mer leads services for Jewish military restaurant in San Francisco. (Ask David American Jewish World Service. Read and civilian personnel and provides for info—RSVP required.) Actor-wife more in her Moment With column on spiritual counseling for troops of any Carolyn Power (Perlstein) shot a scene page 2 … faith. On hand to honor Cantor David’s for an episode of CBS All Access’ national service were his wife, Rabbi “Strange Angel” in Hollywood. And F Chronicle columnist Leah Garchik Carla Fenves, their children, Aaron, their son Seth just received his M.S. in Smentioned CSI trustee Judie Wexler, Eliana and Talia, and his father, Henry Digital Media Art & Engineering from president of the California Institute of Frommer. CSI guests included David Louisiana State University… Integral Studies, on the occasion of the Bolaffi, Alan Mirviss and Diane Fell- school’s 50th anniversary, celebrated on man, Gayle Gottlieb, Steve and Laura ongratulations to Asher Etlin for the 61st floor of the Salesforce Tower. Olson, Joan Libman and Jim Coughlin, Chis recording debut on Matt Mar- Judie talked about how the interdisci- and Greg Tolson ... tians’ new album, "The Last Party," plinary school strives “to embody spirit, released in April. You can hear Asher intellect and wisdom in service to indi- rchitect Arnie Lerner was recently playing the alto sax lines he composed viduals, communities and the earth.” … Aelected president of the San Fran- on six of the eight tracks. The album is cisco Access Appeals Commission, available on iTunes and Spotify. ho knew there was a CSI con- which hears appeals regarding access to Wnection in the interview NPR’s public accommodations to the Depart- ongrats to Dr. Jim Davis, honored Ari Shapiro did with labor lawyer Ed ment of Building Inspection. Arnie also Cthis February by the San Francisco Passman, who represents whistleblower serves on on the Education and Out- Institute on Aging at its annual Dinner Tricia Newbold? It was Newbold who reach Committee of the California Com- a la Heart fundraiser. In addition to exposed dubious security clearance mission on Disability Access. His work his lifetime work as a physician and practices in the White House. Ari Shap- truly embraces the commandment, teacher at UCSF Medical Center at iro is the son-in-law of CSI trustee Gale “Thou shall not place a stumbling block Mount Zion, he has been an active Gottleib. He and Gale’s son, Michael, before the blind.” Yasher koach … leader of San Francisco Jewish were married by Rabbi Marty Weiner. organizations supporting the elderly, Ed Passman is the father of CSI trustee nd CSI board member Amy Wid- including the Institute on Aging and Stacy Passman, co-chair of our social Adowson is keeping busy. She began the Jewish Home, now the Campus for action committee… a new job as vice president for corporate Jewish Living. Jim’s many community communications at public relations firm activities were lauded in a well- herith Israel was well represented Zeno Group, which was recently named deserved February profile in the J. … Sat the Jewish Community Relations 2019 Agency of the Year by PRWeek. Council’s San Francisco Multicultural Amy is also CSI’s newly appointed rep- ee Labé Pollak was recognized Passover Freedom Seder. Among resentative on the JCRC Assembly and Lthis April by the Bay Area Jewish CSI members in attendance at the is working with former CSI rabbi Julie Healing Center for her leadership in participatory, cross-cultural, interfaith Saxe-Taller on the communications co-founding its Grief and Growing event: Lindsay Braunig, Julie Driscoll committee of the Reform Action Com- Weekend for bereaved families. Lee and Christina Jefferson, Craig Etlin, mittee of Northern California. received the inaugural Rabbi Michael Diane Fellman and Alan Mirviss, and Hannah Barenbaum Award. CSI Evan Kletter, Eric Safire and Katie ongrats to Erin Gordon, whose new supporters at the BAJHC’s Healing and Luke Zier. n Cnovel Beshert was published this Matters breakfast included Julia January. Like her previous two books, Cheever, Ira Fateman and JoBeth By the News Nosher, aka Ellen Newman. Beshert is women’s fiction—this time Walt, Cantor David Frommer, Gordon Please send bits and bites of gossip to a modern romance set in Israel that Gladstone, Arlene and Stephan [email protected]. Be sure to explores themes of faith against a vivid Krieger, Helen Luey, Lynn and Paul put “News Nosh” in the subject line. Middle East setting. Friends and fans Sedway, Shira Shore, Lee Ann and joined her for events at Book Passage Paul Steiner, Rabbi Martin and Karen and Books Inc., and she is currently Weiner, Stephen Weiner and Norm visiting book clubs. Call Erin directly to Dito, and Rhoda and Shel Wolfe … invite her to yours … 11 TIKKUN OLAM CORNER

As Tom Friedman noted in his April 24 New York Times col- umn, immigrants seeking asylum in the U.S. have increased by nearly 30 percent in the past year. Many, particularly from Honduras and Guatemala, request asylum because of a fear of persecution and violence. Formerly, asylum seekers could stay in the U.S. legally while they wait for their pending court cases. Under the current administration, their situation is more pre- carious. Helping immigrants navigate the U.S. immigration system is just one way Sherith Israel’s Social Action Committee embod- ies our status as a sanctuary congregation. We work closely with Faith in Action, the Religious Action Center of the URJ and other national justice organizations to do this and other important advocacy work. SINGING TO SUPPORT FAITH IN ACTION: This March, SANCTUARY AND ACCOMPANIMENT Sherith Israel hosted a benefit concert by Solstice, a vocal As a sanctuary congregation, CSI has committed itself to help- ensemble founded by Sheryl Kaskowitz, daughter of ing refugees and asylum seekers navigate the legal gauntlet Shira Shore. The concert raised $3,000 to support the necessary to establish their claims. Once again Leslie Rabine ongoing immigration work of Faith in Action, a network of has come to the aid of a French-speaking asylum seeker, this time a woman tortured in the Democratic Republic of the Con- congregations working to create social justice for all. go. “These cases are always complicated,” explains Leslie. The woman, originally in detention in Bakersfield, was with her Karen joined 75 faith leaders on a “Root Causes Pilgrimage” to cousin in Louisville when her case was being heard in San Honduras. The national delegation, sponsored by the Interfaith Francisco. “I put out her story and people were very generous, Movement for Human Integrity and the SHARE Foundation, donating funds for her transportation. Eventually we found a spent a week meeting with communities confronting human lawyer who helped get her hearing rescheduled to Louisville.” rights abuses that are forcing people to flee their homes. “All And that’s just one person who needed help. the places we visited were surrounded by high walls and se- Accompaniment literally means accompanying someone going curity with guns,” notes Karen. The group met with women’s to court. Rabbi Abby Phelps, clergy liaison to the Social Action organizations working toward solutions. They listened to wom- Committee, accompanied Cambodians who had been marked en’s personal stories of difficult lives and the fight to survive, to for deportation because of prior criminal records, despite hav- lead and someday to thrive. “They have no money and no jobs. ing served their time and having families and jobs here. “This They confront violence from both gangs and the government. issue of deportation is close to my heart,” notes Rabbi Abby. “As Four hundred women are murdered in an average year, and Jews we are invested in the idea of t’shuvah, or turning one’s men seem to act with nearly total impunity,” adds Karen. No life around.” She described her courtroom role as showing up wonder so many want to flee with their children. and offering support and comfort to the families. “It’s all about PARTNERING WITH THE RELIGIOUS ACTION bearing witness,” she adds. “I’m grateful that it is part my job CENTER ON DOMESTIC ISSUES to do this and that I work for a congregation that supports me As a Reform congregation, CSI partners with the Religious Ac- in this.” tion Center, the political action arm of the Union for Reform Many CSI congregants have been part of accompaniment teams Judaism. In California the RAC looks at legislation being dis- supporting refugees at court proceedings. “Just filling the court cussed in Sacramento and chooses specific bills to support. and witnessing the process can be really amazing,” says social This year, a budget allocation for gun-violence prevention is action co-chair Stacy Passman. “Judges make different deci- the RAC’s top legislative priority. sions when the court is full.” On the national level, this May, Rabbi Abby Phelps, Karen DELVING INTO THE ROOT CAUSES OF Alschuler, Stacy Passman and Fran Schreiberg are heading to MASS MIGRATION the RAC Consultation on Conscience in Washington, D.C. They The rise in immigration and asylum claims did not originate will join nearly a thousand people to discuss national issues in a vacuum. To learn more about causes of increased immi- and lobby Congress. “It’s extraordinary to be together with so gration, Rabbi Jessica Graf and social action co-chair Karen many Jewish people all doing social action work,” comments Alschuler joined fact-finding and educational trips to Central Karen, who has attended the conference before. “It’s so power- America. Rabbi Graf details her trip to Guatemala in her Mo- ful to make our voices heard.” n ment With column on page 2.

12 PASSAGES

A hearty mazel tov to each of our May the memory of the righteous families celebrating the following simchas: be for a blessing.

NEW BABIES NEW MEMBERS Zachary Adelson Maia Kai-Ling Gil, daughter of Jennifer Huang & Pauline, Douglas & Greta Gould Galina Alterman, wife of Yevgeniy Zherebin and Elad Gil Rebecca Handler and David, Willa & mother of Greg Alterman Liora Gurdin, granddaughter of Rita Jeremy & Simone Andrade Adelaide Fateman, mother of Ira Fateman J. Barry Gurdin and daughter of Jyoti Uppuluri Dave, Grace & Harper Hollander (JoBeth Walt) and grandmother of Meryl and & Boaz Gurdin Elisabeth Houseman Emily Fateman Adam Joseph, son of Elizabeth & Michael Joseph Meghan Marmor & Andrew Arruda Raymond Gomes, son of August Gomes and Madeleine Koss, granddaughter of Nadine Koss, Patti Morse stepson of Nancy Sheftel-Gomes daughter of Amy & Randy Koss and sister Benjamin Ruhs Helen Jarkovsky, wife of the late Irving of Noah Leonard Singer Jarkovsky and mother of Jill Jarkovsky and Yash Winkler, son of Deepa Seetharaman & Sandi and Ron Blair Rolfe Winkler Theodore Kelter, husband of Janet Gallin; B’NAI MITZVAH father of Ted, Kim, Sunny, David, Kay, Adam and Michael; and stepfather of Julianna and Dahlia Gabriel Benjamin, son of Jenny & Naomi Miller, mother of Daniel and Stephen Miller Jeremy Benjamin, May 4 Rochelle Orloff, mother of Nina (Ron) Gilson Orly Morgenstein, daughter of Lida & and grandmother of Cassie Gilson and David Morgenstein, May 11 Rebecca Gilson Wara Dahlia Kelly, daughter of Amanda & Alex Kelly, Rabbi Larry Raphael, husband of Terrie Raphael May 18 and father of Matthew, Andrew and Zachary Bayrer, son of Rebecca & James Bayrer, Rachel Raphael June 1 Aleksey Smotkin, father of Marina Smotinka Kevin Kerzhner, son of Feliks & Tatiana Kerzhner, (Aleksandr Kagan) June 8 Lila Wagmann, sister of Dr. Melvin (Ellen) Rosen Paige Clancy, daughter of Jeni & Kevin Clancy, June 15 Braydon Backman, son of Teresa & Joel Backman, August 17 Binnie Kenvin, daughter of Mina & Seth Kenvin, August 24 Asher Weston, son of Maacah Marah & Stephen Weston, September 7

CONFIRMATION CLASS 2019: This year’s confirmands will take part in Friday-night Kabbalat Shabbat services on June 7th. Each will speak on how Judaism impacts them and the road they’ve taken to reach this moment. (L–R) Jessica Schwarz, Elizabeth Flaherman, David Milberg, Max Klivans, Nina Morgenstein, Shoshanah Alessi, Emmy Etlin. 13 Giving from the heart Annual GENEROUS DONORS PUSH 2018 ANNUAL FUND OVER THE TOP Fund2018 Raising nearly $297,000, Sherith Israel’s cover the costs of our programs and wrote personal notes and sent email 2018 Annual Fund broke all previous activities. CSI congregants and friends messages to more people than ever. records. This generous outpouring is understand this need and respond every Emeritus trustees David Newman and notable because many supporters were year with greater and greater generosity. Howard Wexler, as well as Cantor Da- also contributing to the final push for vid Frommer, took on important contact Members of the Sherith Israel Board of the Seismic Retrofit Campaign. lists. Linda Feldman and Cathy Taylor Trustees set the tone for the campaign helped Nia with handwritten addresses, “In making these donations Sherith Is- with their combined gifts of nearly hand stamping and other mailing de- rael supporters told us they feel more $51,000. More than 100 congregants and tails. closely connected to our community,” friends donated over $1,000 each, plac- says CSI trustee Joan Libman. Joan has ing them in our Circle of Friends. Joan “This effort from trustees, staff and co-chaired the Annual Fund with for- and Julie were especially excited that volunteers made our Annual Fund suc- mer trustee Julie Lekach House for the dozens of gifts were from new donors. cess possible, even in the midst of the past decade. Development manager Nia “Every gift counts. We thank each of remarkable finish to our Seismic Retrofit Taylor has coordinated the campaign our 250 supporters for giving from the Campaign,” concludes Julie. “One mitz- since 2015. heart,” notes Julie, vah leads to another!” n As with all synagogues and nonprofits, Raising these essential funds requires dues and program fees simply do not lots of teamwork. Trustees made calls,

A SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR CIRCLE OF FRIENDS DONORS (Annual Fund Gifts of $1,000 or more) Rina Alcalay & Osborn Erickson Sandra Handler Barry Sacks Rochelle Alpert & Steven Greenwald Julie Lekach House & Stan Lekach Eric Safire William & Karen Alschuler Jennifer Huang & Elad Gil Karen Sakanashi & Jonathan Lemberg Julia & Fred Altshuler Mikiko Huang & Marshall Stoller in honor of Fernando San Martin & Amanda Legge Ingrid Apter Julie Lekach House Margaret & Mel Scheinman Patricia Axelrod Valerie & Thierry Jahan Dan & Ellen Schumm Teresa & Joel Backman Nancy & Peder Jones Lynn & Paul Sedway The Kenneth S Baron Family Alicia & Evan Kletter Gaye & Stu Seiler Phaedra Bell & Daniel Dohan Susan Kolb Susan E. Shapiro Jim Blattner Sandra & Merle Kovtun Nancy Sheftel-Gomes & August Gomes Susan Borkin & Jerry Hurwitz Arlene & Steve Krieger William & Shira Shore Lindsay & Warren Braunig Nancy Lenvin Joanie Silverstein in memory of Ardis & Al Breslauer Monica Levin Larry Silverstein and James Hurwitz Dr. Eric Brondfield & Dr. Jane Melnick Elizabeth Lewis & David Thier Denise Sobel Lisa Brown & Daniel Handler Joan Libman & Jim Coughlin Audrey & Robert Sockolov Anne Cohen Helen & Leon Luey Lisa Spiegel & Michael Ungar Fred Cohen & Carolyn Klebanoff Frank Mainzer & Lonnie Zwerin in memory of Karen & Samuel Spivack Drs. Claire & James Davis Herbert Zwerin Janice & Lowell Sucherman Andrew & Yuka Denmark Jan Maisel & Douglas Currens Constance & Eric Tabas Ronald Eaton Denise & Erik Migdail Ruth Temkin & Richard Schwartzberg Irene K. Epstein Jane & Michael Miller Caroline Voorsanger Lisa Erdberg & Dennis Gibbons Mary Montella & Jeffrey Newman JoBeth Walt & Ira Fateman Joanne Yawitz Farkas & Gabriel Farkas Lida & David Morgenstein Allen Weinberg Cantor & Mrs. Martin Feldman Ellen & David Newman Steve Weiner & Norm Dito Diane Fellman & Alan Mirviss Laura & Stephen Olson Denise & David Weinstein Janet Gallin & Theodore Kelter (z”l) Stacy Passman & Daniel LaPushin Helaine Weinstein & Maurice Kamins Karen & Stuart Gansky David & Carolyn Perlstein Lindsey & Zachariah Weinstein Ellen Garber & Glenn Hunt Mauree Jane Perry David & Kay Werdegar Mimi Gauss Lee & Stuart Pollak Judie & Howard Wexler Ronald J. & Nina Gilson Leslie & Merle Rabine in memory of Rhoda & Sheldon Wolfe Marcia & David Glassel Bea & Henry Wahl Betsy Wolkin & Michael Gaines Erin Gordon & Craig Etlin Ashley & Richard Rochman Karen Zelmar Gale Gottlieb Gina & Mark Rosenberg in memory of Susan Zetzer Rabbi Jessica & Dr. Jonathan Graf Sam & Eve Rosenberg Bennett & Cynthia Zier Deborah & Edmund Green Lynn Rothman & Richard Koch in honor of Katie & Lucas Zier Barbara & John Greenberg Rabbi Larry Raphael (z”l) Melissa & Tracy Boxer Zill Bernice Greene Suzanne Rittenberg Rubinstein & Monica & Alan Zimmerman Lorrie & Richard Greene David Rubinstein Anonymous 14 ANNUAL FUND DONATIONS Amy & Michael Allen Teresa & Bradley Graham in honor of Edie & Ira Plotinsky (z"l) Marilyn Allen Elizabeth Gold and Lawrence & Donald Raphael Rachel Alschuler Barbara Graham Roslyn Rhodes Joram Altman & Barbara Winer in honor of Eleanore & Burton Greenberg Carrie Rice Tasia Melvin Bartell Deborah & John Greenspan Diana & Jerry Robinson Kathryn Amenta Marcia D. Gruskin Ellen & Melvin Rosen Shoshana Chana Asher in honor of Marsha & Ralph Guggenheim Art & Gayle Rosenberg Cantor Feldman, Olivia Krisna Melvin, Candace Heisler Elsa Rosenberg & David Zuckerman Tasia Melvin Bartell and Arlene & Steve Jennifer Heyman Erica & Andrew Rosenblatt in memory of Krieger, and in memory of Tony Bartell Justine & Bruce Highman Miriam Wilner Dorothy & Hal Auerbach Jessica Hilberman Jeffrey Ross & Janice Platt Janet Bensu Elizabeth Hurwitz and Joann Glaser Hurwitz Agnes Rothblatt Margaret & Ian Berke in memory of James S. Hurwitz Susan Rothstein & John Koeppel Frances Bertetta Robert & Evelyn Jaffe in memory of Jim Hurwitz Aly & Nir Biderman Rita J. Jeremy Ruth & Richard Rozen Paula Birnbaum & Neil Solomon Eleanor & Richard Johns Liat & Peter Sadler Sandee Blechman & Steven Goldberg Blanche Kahn Neal & Sheila Sapper Gayle & Michael Blum Jane & Arnold Kahn Nancy Sayavong & Mitchel Cohen Robert & Marion Blumberg Marilyn & Richard Kandel Sayfer Family Felicia Borkovi Susan Kaplan in memory of Gary Apter Frances Schreiberg Breathable Cece Kaufman & Daniel Himelstein Liz & Zeev Schultz Rachel Breuer & Mike Feldman Karmen Khachatryan & Igor Kigel Kerryn & Joel Schwarz Elizabeth Buck Maya Kigel Moisey Shnayder Millie & Barry Chauser Carol Kingsley Jay & Ellie Shukert Beth Cousens & Joel Aufrecht Joan Korenman Dale Silver Merle Cutler & Neal Snyder Dalila Koshevatskaya Bella Sloutskaya Nancy & Arnie Davis Nadine Koss Harold Spar Susan & John Dean in memory of Hilary Krant & Jack Bernstein Mary & David Sperber Heinz Frankenstein Adrienne Kristine Stephen Sperber & Roberta Silverstein Jobyna & John Dellar Debra Lande Lee Ann & Paul Steiner Lisa Eltinge & Jonathan Burton Lindsay Lassman & Ohad Ben-Yoseph Kate Steinheimer & Peter Klivans Robert Epstein Lynn & Ron Laupheimer Cathy Taylor Ingrid Evans & Art Klein Robin & David Lee Roz & Greg Tolson Linda Feldman in honor of Rhoda & Judith Leff in honor of Joseph Amster & Karen & Paul Travis Sheldon Wolfe Rick Shelton Jack & Beverly Vaupen Richard Felton & Linda Wagner Michelle Levenson & Todd Macomber Melvin Wasserman Arthur & Marilee Fenn Janet Lewis Sharon & Steven Wasserman Rabbi Carla Fenves & Cantor David Frommer Christine & Dan Linder Frieda Weiner in honor of Craig Etlin Marlene Litvak & Bruce Fisher Rabbi Martin & Karen Weiner Nicole & Jeffrey Fessel Melanie & Peter Maier Anne & Steven Werth Anastasia Fink Joanne & Michael Mandel Amy Widdowson Nancy Flaxman & Lila McCarthy Evelyn Manies Shellie Wiener & Alan Geist Shelley & Andy Forrest Karen & Harry Maring Jean Wright Jean & Ken Freeman Frank Meyer Supriya & Mitchell Wunsh Ena & Erad Fridman Jason Miao Julia & Vladimir Zagatsky Rona & Donald Friedman Lindsey Milberg & Beatriz Davila Cornejo Svetlana Zbarakh Linda Fries in memory of Gary Apter Joseph & Susan Wise Miller Kristen Zeitzer Philip & Velia Frost Danny Montemayor Margene Fudenna & James Seff June & Donald Nadler Stephanie Funt & David Back Eileen & Fred Nervo Stephen Garber & Rena Pasick Diane & Robert Neuhaus Sandy & Nancie Garfinkel Janet Parker & Chris Focht Jane E. Ginsburg Judy & Gerry Pelzner The Golden Family Mary Penn Sheila & Alan Gordon Annabella Phillips

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Jewish education that meets kids where they’re at.

Studio @ Sherith Israel + Teens @ Studio Build your children’s Jewish identity, knowledge and sense of community.

Studio @ Sherith Israel (grades PK–6) and Teens @ Studio (grades 7–12) engage hearts, minds and senses with creative, hands-on, project-centered learning that instills the essence of Jewish traditions and values. Enrollment for the 2019–2020 school year is now open. VISIT ▶ sherithisrael.org/StudioEnroll