NOVEMBER 2020 Heshvan/Kislev 5781
VOLUME 78 NUMBER 3
STAY CONNECTED facebook.com/groups/BnaiIsraelCong/ www.bnaiisraelcong.org
UPCOMING Men's Club Jews & Brews UPCOMING Thursday, November 19 | See page 7 for details.
L.I.F.E. LECTURE Israel’s Political GETTING READY FOR System in the Age of Coronavirus Sacred Ecology: Divine Energy in Heaven and Earth During Kabbalat Shabbat with Debra Band with Sunday, November 1 AMBASSADOR IDO AHARONI Learn more on page 6. Sunday, November 15 10:30 AM See page 7. JOIN THE PERLMAN CANTORS Inside FOR A SPECIAL AFTERNOON B’nai Mitzvah ...... 2 Rabbi’s Message ...... 3 VIRTUAL CONCERT Notes by Cantor Bolts ...... 4 Leadership Message ...... 5 Lessans Adult Learning Institute ...... 6 The Perlman Cantors ...... 8 Artist-in-Residence Eliana Light ...... 8 HINEINI Campaign ...... 9 Shabbat Magic ...... 10 Early Childhood ...... 11 Youth & Education ...... 12 Youth Events ...... 13 Blumberg-Zalis Family Library ...... 14 Israel Corner ...... 15 Social Action ...... 16 Men’s Club ...... 17 Judaica Shop ...... 17 Sisterhood ...... 18 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8 Mazal Tovim ...... 19 See page 8 for information. Members in Mourning ...... 20 Donations ...... 21 B’NAI MITZVAH devn ipa Samantha Rose Shapiro Danielle Elyse Krinn November 1 | 9:00 AM November 15 | 9:00 AM Samantha Shapiro, daughter of Stacey and David Danielle Krinn, daughter of Dr. Elizabeth Krinn and Shapiro, granddaughter of Ronnie and Arthur Jonathan Martel, and Jonathan Krinn, granddaughter Chantker, and Harriet and Dr. Stephen Shapiro, and of Irene and Jerrold Davis, and Linda and Dr. Mal sister to Lindsey Shapiro, is an eighth-grade student Krinn, is an eighth-grade student at Silver Creek at Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School. For her Middle School. For her mitzvah project, Danielle is mitzvah project, Samantha is collecting tween and volunteering at A Wider Circle in Silver Spring, MD. The mission teen toys and activities for the Kennedy Krieger Institute Therapeutic of A Wider Circle is to help children and adults lift themselves out Recreation department to help adolescents work towards reaching of poverty. Danielle helps sort and organize donations, making sure their therapy goals and adjust to being in the hospital. Samantha also they are in “dignity condition.” is promoting horse rescue farms by volunteering her time and raising money to support the Gentle Giants Draft Horse Rescue. Taryn Jade Su November 21 | 9:00 AM Shawn Austin Muchnick Taryn Su, daughter of Lauren and John Su, November 7 | 9:00 AM granddaughter of Bernice and Dr. Gilbert August, Shawn Muchnick, son of Dr. Julia Katzen and and Mei and Te-Yun Su, is a seventh-grade student Morgan Muchnick, grandson of Dr. Jay and Lynn at Robert Frost Middle School. For her mitzvah Katzen, Phoebe Muchnick, and Dr. Carl Muchnick, project, Taryn is collecting school supplies and art is a seventh-grade student at Cabin John Middle supplies for underserved elementary school students. School. For his mitzvah project, Shawn started his Taryn also volunteers at Team River Runner, an organization that own fundraising effort with Children’s National teaches disabled veterans and children with special needs to kayak Hospital in Washington, D.C. These efforts will direct donations and paddle board. towards Children’s National’s education coordinators and teachers so they can help children keep up with their school work during extended Joshua Ilan Berl hospitalizations or clinic visits. Shawn is also putting together “care November 22 | 9:00 AM kits” with items donated through Amazon for children that have Joshua Berl, son of Sara Garon Berl and David Berl, unexpected stays at the hospital. The Dr. Cyrus Katzen Foundation grandson of Phyllis and Phil Garon, and Tom Berl (founded by his great grandfather) will be matching donations. For and Daisy Berl, is an eighth-grade student at Charles information on how to support and donate, you can go to http://giving. E. Smith Jewish Day School. For his mitzvah project, childrensnational.org/goto/ShawnMuchnick. Josh is collecting items for Leveling the Playing Field so children have the sports equipment they need in order to participate in youth sports. Alexa Morgan Azia November 14 | 9:00 AM Francesca Madison Brown Alexa Azia, daughter of Melissa and Stephen Azia, November 28 | 9:00 AM granddaughter of Donald Seidman, and Gloria and Francesca Brown, daughter of Samantha and Burton Azia (z”l), is a seventh-grade student at Michael Brown, granddaughter of Fran and Robert Herbert Hoover Middle School. For her mitzvah Raider, and A. Ruth Brown-Waters and E. Kenneth project, Alexa is working with Birthday Cakes 4 Free Brown (z”l), is a seventh-grade student at La Paz to bake, decorate, and deliver free birthday cakes to Intermediate School in Mission Viejo, CA. For her financially and socially disadvantaged children and seniors. Alexa mitzvah project, Frankie collected and delivered household items to is a proud member of the Executive Board and helps create special donation centers for redistribution to those in need. memories for the cake recipients. Matthew Shane Stillman Molly Rose Eisenfeld December 5 | 9:00 AM November 14 | 9:00 AM Matthew Stillman, son of Debbie and Dan Stillman, Molly Eisenfeld, daughter of Jennifer and Joel grandson of Charlotte Mirman, Ben Mirman and Eisenfeld, granddaughter of Michele and Stanley Judye Yellon, and Jake and Anita Sillman (z”l) is Corn, and Joan and Emanuel Eisenfeld, is a seventh- a seventh-grade student at Charles E. Smith Jewish grade student at Robert Frost Middle School. For Day School. For his mitzvah project, Matty leads her mitzvah project, Molly is working with Manna weekly Kabbalat Shabbat services over Zoom for residents of a to collect food and monetary donations to aid families who are food local assisted living facility. Due to the pandemic, the rabbi who had insecure. Manna’s mission is helping families and individuals in previously led these services in person was no longer allowed to enter the fight against ending hunger by distributing food, education, and the facility. Matty’s Bubby (Charlotte) lives there and he wanted to advocacy. make sure that she and the other Jewish residents could still celebrate Shabbat together.
2 NOVEMBER 2020 A midrash demonstrates how our construct of time is nevertheless a holy endeavor: It is like a king who had a timepiece and could tell the time of day by looking at it. When the prince matured, the king said to him, Welcome to the Newest “The timepiece was in my hands until now. Members of Our But today I give it over to you.” God is the B’nai Israel Family king, and we are the child who has come (September 5–October 6) of age. The timepiece is the moon, and it is now within our power to look upon it and establish the months, thereby declaring the New Members ... festival days. AMY ROSSELLE & But time is not the only construct of our soci- ROBERT KALLMAN RABBI'S MESSAGE ety. We also have constructs of race, sexual- by RABBI MITCHELL BERKOWITZ ity, gender, and more. Of them all, time has remained somewhat unchanged. But the AMANDA & CHARLES others have evolved and transformed. Some LEHMAN On Sunday, November 1 at 2:00 AM we “fall of these constructs have historically created imbalance and unfair power dynamics, and back,” turning the clocks back one hour to JANELLE & conclude daylight savings time. The history that is why they have been challenged in of this practice is interesting, and the debate recent years as we push our society to be CHRISTOPHER MIZERA about its relevance comes up whenever we more equitable for all. approach this time of the year. But that is MICHELE & THOMAS not my concern here. Rather, I want to note If race is a construct, then we have the power that time as we understand it is a societal to change it. We have not only the power, SUDOW construct. We have constructed the cycle but also the obligation to change it such of daylight savings time and standard time. that it does not serve as a mechanism for Brukhim habaim! We have constructed whether it is 1:00 AM oppression. Like the timepiece given over The entire congregation shares our joy or 2:00 AM. to the prince, the societal constructs of our in welcoming you into our B’nai Israel day are given over to us, and they are in our family. The national time standard in this country hands. We must find ways to make them was adopted to make sure that railroad more equitable, more righteous, and more in schedules operated “on time,” and that was line with our values as a Jewish community. not standardized until 1883. Some even pushed back. One newspaper wrote, “Let the At B’nai Israel, we are committed to equity people of Cincinnati stick to the truth as it is and equality. We seek the betterment of our written by the sun, moon and stars.” Juda- society. And we are not in this alone. As part ism agrees: time should be informed by the of our S.E.A. Change: Racial Equity Round- sun, moon and stars, and time is a construct. table, we are working with Washington He- brew to educate ourselves about the issues, One of the mitzvot of the Torah is to sanctify engage with local partners, act to make a the new month, intercalate the calendar, and difference, and work towards change. We thereby establish the holidays of the year. are grateful to our immediate past president, In ancient times this was done by witnesses Marla Schulman, for leading this initiative, testifying in Jerusalem that they saw the and we look forward to the launch of the first B'NAI ISRAEL first sliver of the new moon. Eventually, phase of the roundtable this month. CONGREGATION our tradition codified the calendar so that 6301 Montrose Road we no longer rely on witness testimony. May we all seek to establish a fair and just Rockville, Maryland 20852 301-881-6550 Nevertheless, it is still we who sanctify the society for all. In the words of the Aleinu www.bnaiisraelcong.org new month, and it is thus we who determine prayer, l’taken olam b’malchut Shaddai, perfecting the world with God’s sovereignty. when exactly we celebrate the festivals of Affiliated with The United our calendar. The Sages of our tradition even May we seek the perfection of the world with Synagogue of Conservative Judaism constructed the calendar such that certain God as our partner. holidays never fall on certain days of the week. For example, Yom Kippur never falls on Friday or Sunday so as to avoid the problems associated with preparing for or B’nai Israel Congregation is concluding Shabbat. Even in Judaism, time an accessible building. is a construct. NOVEMBER 2020 3 These are all strategies for coping when you are faced with uncertainty and fear. Find something small that you can control, some island of predictability, some refuge MICHAEL J. SAFRA of familiarity and comfort. Not an escape, Senior Rabbi because sticking our heads in the sand MITCHELL H. BERKOWITZ Associate Rabbi will do no good, but a touchpoint that you JONATHAN A. SCHNITZER can use to bring yourself back to a calm Rabbi Emeritus space whenever you need it. What are your MATTHEW H. SIMON, DD, DHL Rabbi Emeritus touchpoints? How are you coping in these JOSH C. PERLMAN troubled times? Hazzan SARAH BOLTS Associate Hazzan/Music Director ROBERT KIEVAL Hazzan Emeritus HAL OSSMAN NOTES Executive Director by CANTOR SARAH BOLTS MOSHE BEN-LEV Education Director RABBI PENINA ALEXANDER Assistant Principal RACHEL SIEGEL When I was in high school and college, I Early Childhood Director became somewhat obsessed with a computer KAREN GERTON Early Childhood Director Emerita game called Snood. The premise of the NANCY GOLDBERG game is pretty simple: you are presented Schilit Nursery School Assistant Director with a board full of colorful game pieces SARAH JARVIS Director of Youth Engagement called Snoods. You launch new Snoods at JILL GENDELMAN this board in an attempt to hit two or more Librarian NETTA ASNER-MINSTER adjacent Snoods of the same color, which Congregational Shlicha causes those Snoods to disappear. When the Thank you to the readers of AVERY SUDOW board is clear, you advance to the next level. Washington Jewish Week Communications and Development Director JOSE (PEPE) STRAUSS for choosing Facilities Director A couple of months ago, I found myself in PATRICIA SIMITAKOS B’nai Israel Events Manager need of a new way to unwind when I was at home on my computer. In the midst of Congregation OFFICERS a pandemic and a volatile election season, as the best STEVEN ROTHENBERG President my former standby of scrolling through SCOTT HODES Facebook could best be described using • Continuing Education President-Elect ROBERT LOEWY the newly coined (and very appropriate Program Vice President Administration for 2020) term “doomscrolling.” It had the DAVID STEIN • Alternative Shabbat Vice President Development tendency to create more anxiety, instead DINA COHEN GRUBER of allowing me to relax. And that’s how I Service/Programming Vice President Membership rediscovered Snood, and have been playing DANIEL FISHER • Judaica Shop Vice President Religious Affairs it in my downtime ever since. FONDA LOWE • Preschool (Runner Up) Vice President Youth and Education • Family-Friendly Shabbat JESSICA LIEBERMAN You might be thinking, Cantor Bolts, why are Secretary you telling me about this computer game? Service (Runner Up) KAREN POST Because I think my reasons for choosing Treasurer ROBERT ALTNEU Snood in particular as my relaxation tool in the DC metropolitan area! Assistant Treasurer are instructive. It engages my brain, but MARC LEVINE Parliamentarian a different part of my brain than reading MARLA SCHULMAN or knitting or even singing: Snood is all Immediate Past President about spatial reasoning and strategy. It’s JULIANN GOLDMAN | ALISA ISENBERG CHERYL ROD predictable: every action has a clear and Sisterhood Co-Presidents consistent result. It’s something I can WAYNE BERMAN | LEWIS GERTZ Men’s Club Co-Presidents control, when there is so much else in the STEVEN COHEN world that is out of my control. And there DR. PATRICIA GREENWEL-ROJKIND DR. STEVEN HAUSMAN is the nostalgia factor of this being a game DR. FRED MESSING I played as a teenager, so it feels familiar DR. STEPHEN B. ROBBINS and comforting. JOEL SHANKMAN JAY WECHSLER Gabbaim
4 NOVEMBER 2020 pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together.” So many member volunteers have reached out to congregants to say "hi" and check in, this has been a great mitzvah. In doing this, SHABBAT I have had the pleasure of speaking to many people in our B’nai Israel community and Candlelighting have gotten to know many of them just a & Havdalah little bit better through our conversations. In pre-COVID times I may not have made these connections. NOVEMBER Our amazing clergy, professional staff and lay leaders have helped us connect in so 6/7 4:44 PM / 5:23 PM many ways throughout this pandemic. The 13/14 4:37 PM / 5:16 PM LEADERSHIP programming has been rich and diverse. We have enjoyed the various speakers, learning 20/21 4:33 PM / 5:10 PM MESSAGE opportunities, outdoor Friday evening 27/28 4:29 PM / 5:07 PM by DINA COHEN GRUBER services and our socially distanced High Vice President Membership Holiday services.
Even in these strange and difficult times it is important to our mental and physical This is not the year I expected, I don’t think health to connect with one another. Our this is the year anyone expected. I thought Hineini campaign is well under way, thank both of my kids would be away at college you to those who have already given gifts and Jay and I would be enjoying our empty and, if you haven’t already done so, please nest. Instead, Gerry and Charlotte are both consider it. B’nai Israel has been here as a Join Our Services by attending different colleges at the satellite vibrant part of our community and our lives Video Live Stream or campus in Kensington, where our school during a time that has been very difficult for motto is “at this university we want you to Telephone so many. Every donation helps B’nai Israel feel like you’re at home!” In addition, we continue to stand as a strong foundation in Shabbat just adopted our second rescue and now we our community. Friday evening, 6:15–7:15 PM have two dogs. It’s a pretty full house. Saturday, 9:00 AM –12:00 PM Jay, Gerry, Charlotte and I wish you all Everything is so different; I could never *Limited in-person attendance is good health and hedva (togetherness), albeit available for this Shabbat service. have imagined this. While my husband, virtually. Please send an email to allison@ Jay, attended High Holiday services and bnaiisraelcong.org. trumpeted the sounds of the shofar in the synagogue, I did not physically attend. Daily Minyan Instead, I watched and listened virtually Monday–Thursday, (thank you to all the clergy and staff who 7:15 AM & 8:00 PM adapted so well in the age of COVID). I Friday, 7:15 AM was initially concerned that the services Sunday, 9:00 AM & 8:00 PM wouldn’t be as profound for me and that I may not connect to it. Instead, I found Video Live Stream Access the services and sermons were even more www.bnaiisraelcong.org/ meaningful for me. Knowing that wherever dailyminyan I am I am able to connect to Judaism and B’nai Israel brings me much comfort and Audio Dial-in: 1-929-436-2866 reassurance. HAPPY Thanksgiving! Meeting ID: 788 352 437 # Connection has been a common theme from Your B’nai Israel Family Phone Instructions through the past six months. Our in-person Dial 1-929-436-2866 connections have largely been put on hold Thursday, November 26 minyan Meeting ID: 788 352 437 # and we are left with connecting virtually. is at 9:00 AM and 8:00 PM. Six months ago, the definition of Zoom was going fast, now, it’s one way we relate and join together. Even though we are now Friday, November 27 minyan virtually seeing each other, it is still vital is at 7:15 AM and 6:15 PM. to maintain our relationships. As written in Psalm 133, “Behold, how good and how NOVEMBER 2020 5 SARA & SAMUEL J. LESSANS ADULT LEARNING INSTITUTE Talmud on Tuesdays GETTING READY FOR Singing Circle Lunch & Learn with Cantor Sarah Bolts (formerly Shabbat Thursday, November 5 Afternoon Talmud 7:15–8:00 PM Study) Prepare for Kabbalat with Rabbi Mitchell Shabbat services by singing Berkowitz together and learning new Tuesdays, 12:30–1:30 PM tunes with Cantor Sarah Bolts. A Shabbat afternoon favorite moves to the Tuesday lunch hour! We will Sacred Ecology: Please register online at https:// continue our exploration of the talmudic Divine Energy in www.bnaiisraelcong.org/event/ tractate Beitzah, focusing upon the Heaven and Earth singingcirclewithcantorbolts.Zoom celebration of our festivals. Newcomers During Kabbalat information will be included in confirmation are more than welcome to join us. No Shabbat email. prior knowledge is necessary. Register with Debra Band online at www.bnaiisraelcong.org/ Sunday, November 1 adulteducationprograms.Zoom information 7:30 PM will be included in the confirmation email. As Shabbat arrives, the Shekhina enters MEN'S CLUB our world and souls, enacting the exchange The Walking Club of human and divine energy that inspires Sunday, November 8 our Friday evening traditions. In this 11:00 AM–1:00 PM slide discussion, Debra Band shares her Join with Men’s Club members in this Drop-In Hebrew Prayer Reading illuminated paintings from Kabbalat new Walking Club. The first activity will Tuesdays, 2:30–3:30 PM Shabbat: the Grand Unification, exploring be a social distancing self-guided tour of November 3, 10, 17, and 24 how our Kabbalat Shabbat customs, drawn historic African-American downtown from the Jewish mystical tradition and the Practice your Hebrew reading of prayer Rockville. Participants must preregister to community of Rabbi Isaac Luria, support and text with our Shlicha Netta Asner- Steve Goldberg ([email protected]). this divine ecology in ritual, blessing and Minster. This is designed for those who All are welcome! song. want to strengthen their Hebrew reading and familiarity with prayers. Recommended to Debra Band holds a BA Honours in History bring and use the Sim Shalom prayerbook for from Concordia University in Montreal and Shabbat and Festivals. Zoom link: https:// an MS in Political Science from MIT. She us02web.zoom.us/j/404382516 turned full attention to Hebrew manuscript arts in 1987. Descended from an eminent Israel’s Most Daring rabbinic family, her extensive studies of Operations Jewish texts and research into medieval with Netta Asner-Minster European and Middle Eastern painting Wednesday, November 11 Friday Morning Torah Study and manuscripts inform her work. Her 7:30-8:30 PM (formerly Shabbat Morning Torah work, celebrated for its intellectual and Join our shlicha, Netta Study) spiritual depth as well as visual beauty, Fridays, 10:00–11:00 AM Asner-Minster, for this November 6 (Vayera) with Ira includes illuminated and papercut books series exploring Israel’s most daring Lieberman and ketubot, other manuscript pieces and operations. Learn how Israel created November 20 (Toldot) with Fonda papercuts, in exhibits, private collections, an intelligence agency that has become Lowe community institutions and galleries across world-renowned and about the less-known Engage with the weekly parsha during these the English-speaking world. Debra is the fascinating operations that showcase the interactive discussions led by community artist and author of multiple works. For more Mossad’s unique abilites. information go to www.dbandart.com. members and by clergy. Contact Wendy Fanaroff with questions. Register online Sessions continue on December 3, and Register online at https://www. at https://www.bnaiisraelcong.org/event/ January 28. bnaiisraelcong.org/event/sacredecology. fridaymorningtorahstudy. Zoom information Register online at www.bnaiisraelcong. will be included in the confirmation email. Presented by the Arts Task Force of the Adult Education Committee. org/event/israeldaringoperations. Zoom information included in confirmation email.
6 NOVEMBER 2020 SARA & SAMUEL J. LESSANS ADULT LEARNING INSTITUTE MEN'S CLUB L.I.F.E. LECTURE SPEAKER SERIES Israel’s Political The African-American System in the Age of History of Downtown Coronavirus Rockville with Ambassador Thursday, November 12 Ido Aharoni Sunday, November 15 7:30–8:30 PM MEN'S CLUB 10:30 AM (note special time) The Men's Club invites you to join us for Hearing Men’s Voices: A Men’s Israel’s parliamentarian democracy is facing this Zoom event on the African-American Club Monthly Dialogue on Men’s an unprecedented dual challenge: an History of Downtown Rockville. We will Concerns hear from Ms. Miriam Bunow representing historically complex and prolonged political Sunday, November 15 Peerless Rockville, who will be speaking deadlock coupled with the need to manage 8:00 PM about the rich African-American History a first-of-its-kind health crisis. What are Men’s Club members meet monthly for open in Rockville. She will provide important the solutions and how can Israel’s uniquely conversation on personal, societal, cultural, details of the many African-American sites vibrant democracy cope with both? In religious, and political, and/or economic located in Downtown Rockville. All are this presentation Ambassador Aharoni concerns led by Jeff Moss. RSVP to Wayne welcome! will address the unique characteristics of Berman ([email protected]). Israel’s political system, pointing to both Participants must preregister to Steve its advantages and disadvantages trying to Goldberg ([email protected]) to answer the question of what will happen in receive Zoom information. the foreseeable future. SISTERHOOD/ MEN'S CLUB Ambassador Aharoni serves as Global The Variety of Women Distinguished Professor for International in Judaism Relations at New York University’s miihxq Thursday, November 19 GraduateSchool of Art and Science. He is 1:00–2:00 PM a member of the International Advisory SERETIME Join our shlicha, Netta Council of APCO Worldwide, founder of Israeli Movie Night Asner-Minster, for the second session of Emerson Rigby, an Israel-based full-service ‘Women in Judaism’ for this year. During consultancy, Chairman of the Charney this session, Netta will be hosting women Forum for New Diplomacy and Global from different Jewish sects in the U.S. and Ambassador for Maccabi World Union. Wednesday, Israel to share about their practices and Ambassador Aharoni is a 25-year veteran November 18 beliefs. This program is cosponsored by of Israel’s Foreign Service. He is a public Sisterhood and Men’s Club. Register online 7:30–9:00 PM diplomacy specialist, founder of the Brand at https://www.bnaiisraelcong.org/event/ Israel program, and a well-known nation womeninjudaism. Zoom information will be branding practitioner. Ambassador Aharoni included in the confirmation email. has been Israel’s longest serving Consul- Join our shlicha, Netta Asner-Minster, General in New York and the tri-state area for an Israeli movie and discussion, to date. He held that position for six years, exploring the variety and complexity overseeing the operations of Israel’s largest of Israeli society. We will be watching diplomatic mission worldwide. MEN'S CLUB Sallah Shabati, about Mizrachi Jewish Jews and Brews immigration and their integration into Register online at https://www. with Rabbi Michael Israeli society. The discussion that bnaiisraelcong.org/event/LIFEAharoni. Safra follows will provide more information Zoom information will be included in the Thursday, November 19 on this subject and elaborate on the confirmation email. 7:30 PM issues expressed in the movie. BYOB and join Rabbi Safra for a thoughtful discussion Register online at https://www. on Jewish values related to racisim and racial bnaiisraelcong.org/event/ equity. All are welcome! RSVP to Wayne israelimovienight. Zoom information Berman ([email protected]). included in confirmation email. www.bnaiisraelcong.org/adulteducation
NOVEMBER 2020 7 THE PERLMAN
CANTORS JOSH C. ELI B. EMANUEL C. RICHARD E. PERLMAN PERLMAN PERLMAN PERLMAN HAZZAN RABBI HAZZAN RABBI/ Sunday, November 8 B’nai Israel Congregation EMERITUS SPIRITUAL Congregation Beit Shalom Chizuk Amuno LEADER 4:00 PM Rockville, MD Monroe Congregation Temple Ner Tamid Township, NJ Baltimore, MD Peabody, MA Join the Perlman Cantors for a Special Afternoon Virtual Concert Don’t miss your opportunity to hear from the Perlman Cantors in this rescheduled virtual event that will feature: • A walk down memory lane with previous concert clips featuring Ivan E. Perlman, z"l and other family members, • Live solo performances from the Perlman Cantors’ home studios • All of the joy and laughter you expect between brothers and the audience
Please check the website for access information for this event. This virtual event is free of charge and open to all! www.bnaiisraelcong.org/cantorsconcert
Shabbat with Our ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE Eliana Light Thursday–Saturday, November 12–14
Our artist-in-residence, Eliana Light, will join us virtually to participate in services, teach, and lead a Havdalah concert.
SINGING CIRCLE Thursday, November 12 at 7:15 PM Prepare for Shabbat with the words and sounds of our Friday evening prayers.
HACHANA L’SHABBAT: A MOMENT OF PREPARATION FOR SHABBAT Friday, November 13 at 4:00 PM Pause for a few moments before the onset of Shabbat to frame the approaching day with mindfulness and clarity.
HAVDALAH & KUMSITZ Saturday, November 14 at 5:30 PM Wish farewell to Shabbat and greet the week ahead with song.
www.bnaiisraelcong.org/artistinresidence
8 NOVEMBER 2020 HINEINIANNUAL CAMPAIGN 2020–2021 HINEINI Annual Campaign
Supporting Hineini While 2020–2021 Receiving End of Year Tax Benefits We are in this together. by David Stein Our Hineini Annual Vice President of Development Campaign is as important as ever. Our Hineini Annual Giving Campaign runs through December 31 and, as you Our community’s generous support can imagine, is as important as ever. each year for our Hineini annual Thank you to so many of you who campaign allows us to do so much to have already pledged your support. foster Jewish identity and grow our Our campaign is strong, but we must entire B’nai Israel community. Thanks continue to ask for support in order to to your support, we are continuing meet our goal. to host meaningful programming and worship opportunities that If you can believe it, we are close to the end of 2020. Traditionally, the end of keep us connected even as we the year is a wonderful time to be inspired to support charitable causes as well socially distance. as take advantage of tax benefits. This year, while so much was different, this giving principle remains the same—there are several different strategies besides As we cannot stand shoulder-to- cash to consider to qualify for a tax deduction this calendar year. Here a couple shoulder at this time, we must stand popular options: up in other ways. Supporting the institutions that have held us up in IRA Charitable Rollover this crisis is not just philanthropic Individuals older than 70½ may distribute up to $100,000 per year tax-free from this year, it is imperative. an individual retirement account (IRA) directly to a qualified charity of your choice, such as B’nai Israel Congregation. These gifts can count toward your Required This is the time to support Jewish Minimum Distribution (RMD). life. This is the time to build on our success. This is the time to make Gifts of Securities a difference. We hope you will Avoid paying capital gains tax on the increase in the value of the securities when consider raising your hand to say you transfer to B’nai Israel Congregation. You may also receive an income tax “Hineini/ Here I am” with a gift to charitable deduction for the full fair market value of the securities at the time of this year’s campaign. the gift. Make your gift today by returning the Please consult your tax advisor for specific details on your situation, but please pledge card you received in the mail, know that B’nai Israel can accept these types of gifts. visiting www.bnaiisraelcong.org/ hineinicampaign, or by contacting Should you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me or to our our Development Director, Avery Director of Development Avery Sudow at [email protected]. Sudow (301-816-5569, avery@ bnaiisraelcong.org). I am glad to stand up with so many in our congregation in saying “Hineini, Here I Am.” Thank you for your consideration of this meaningful support.
NOVEMBER 2020 9 Calling All Day School Families!
B'nai Day School parents are invited, Shabbat welcome, and encouraged to join the Day School Committee. In past years, Magic the committee has planned a number of popular events over the course of the year to engage Day School families in shul life. We may not have as many YOUTH opportunities for in-person gatherings this year, but we are still committed to building a "community within a PROGRAMS community" at B'nai. Stay tuned for more information about November an upcoming planning meeting and feel free to contact co-chairs Leah Tulin ([email protected]) or Paula Correa TOT SHABBAT (Ages 5 and under with parent) Silver ([email protected]) with November 7 & November 21 any questions. 9:30 AM
JUNIOR CONGREGATION (Grades K–6) November 14 & November 28 10:30 AM
TEEN MINYAN (Grades 7–12) November 7 Get Social 10:30 AM With Us BIRTHDAY SHABBATOT November 7
GRADE SHABBATOT (During Junior Congregation) Kindergarten – November 14 1st Grade – November 14 During this time of social distancing, make sure to stay connected with us via social media for latest updates, Facebook Live events, and more. FAMILY MINYAN November 7 (in the B'nai Israel parking lot, weather permitting) Join our group on FB November 21 https://www.facebook.com/ 10:15 AM groups/BnaiIsraelCong/ Tune in for these special Shabbat morning services with meaningful learning, spirited prayer, and engaging Torah reading. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ All are welcome. Contact Rabbi Berkowitz with questions bnaiisraelcong/ ([email protected]).
10 NOVEMBER 2020 While things were different than in the past, the joy and pride was felt by all as we gathered together on a beautiful Fall evening with Rabbi Safra, Cantor Josh, Rabbi Berkowitz, Nancy Goldberg and teachers Hava Shirazi Anderson and Debra Diewald. It would not have been complete without Karen Gerton joining us and sharing some lovely reflections, words, and advice to the EARLY children and families.
CHILDHOOD Honored that evening were: by RACHEL SIEGEL Lily Bulkin Director Harlow Goff Norah Greenberg Avi Jacobsohn Maya Kimchy Romi Kimchy The past few months have been a whirlwind Audrey Milzman with the start of school, getting to know Blake Neuringer our children, and the high holidays. But, Ezra Possner like I’ve said before, it’s been incredibly Eleanor Rappaport wonderful to be in person together here at Jordyn Robbins B’nai Israel Schilit Nursery School. Asher Schwarz Amit Segal As with any transition, the beginning of Will Tannenbaum one occurrence typically coincides with Reese Willcher the ending of another. For example, on Simhat Torah, we finish reading the Torah How delightful it was to hear what makes and then immediately begin reading it from our school special. The children shared the beginning again. some of their favorite BISNS memories as the following: playing on the playground, A part of this cycle for our school is our building with Duplos, having family come Siyum which is usually held in June to honor for Shabbat, searching for mezuzot around our four and five-year-old children and their the building, afterschool cooking classes, families. As with so many other things this the bike room, making friends, playing year, this recognition of the completion of with friends everyday, celebrating Purim at their time at our school was put on hold. school, the bouncy house on Purim fun day, And so, this October, with the beginning of the ice cream truck on truck day, going to our school year, we also coupled celebrating Israel, art sketches on nature walks and the the ending of nursery school for that group playground, all my teachers and friends, and of students. B’nai Israel Schilit Nursery "everything!" School certainly found unique, clever, and special ways to honor and celebrate the Although I wasn’t part of this community last accomplishments of these children and year with these children, it was a wonderful their families, but we all still wanted to plan reminder of the amazing community that is something in-person to mark the milestone here at BISNS and B’nai Israel. event. Reflecting and learning from the outdoor programming over the summer and fall, we planned an in-person, socially- distant, outdoor Siyum celebration for the 2019–2020 Gan Kohavim class.
NOVEMBER 2020 11 become a valuable asset to have! When I observe classes I notice when students are struggling and now have an opening for discussing how to best engage students in virtual space. 6th Grade With all this in mind, and recalling my mentor’s wise words, I decided to teach a B’nai Mitzvah regular weekly class for 8th grade. My topic is “Archaeology & the Bible” and I have a Experience class of 10 students. It’s a terrific group of teens who I know well, and I enjoy spending time with. Each week I attempt to connect with them, have them share and hopefully engage and inspire. YOUTH & One of the highlights of the school year at B’nai Israel is the 6th Grade B’nai EDUCATION I have learned that our children are resilient Mitzvah Experience. This year, we by MOSHE BEN-LEV but (not unlike their parents) struggle with have created a four-part program that Education Director too much Zoom time and social isolation. will take place over the academic year. For this reason, we decided that although Some of these events will take place we may not be able to meet in person, there Many years ago, when I first moved from during the time period when Talmud was no reason to find a way to interact teaching in a classroom to be an Education Torah normally meets. The entire B’nai outdoors following safety protocols. Teens Director, my mentor took me aside and Mitzvah Experience is for all of our need social interaction and thrive mentally advised me to always find an opportunity families, both those whose students are when connected with peers. What we engage to teach a class. His reasoning was simple, enrolled in Talmud Torah and those who them in is less important than how we if you don’t teach, you will forget what are in day schools. it's like to be in a classroom. If you forget engage them. Programming that includes fun activities, tefilah, a little text study and that, he went on, you won’t understand the “Meet the Family!” whole lot of talking about how we feel teacher’s perspective. Over the years I have Sunday, November 15 taught teens about Jewish leadership, 3rd and how we can manage our lives now is graders about social emotional intelligence fundamental in keeping teens engaged in 9:30–11:30 AM Following an introduction and ice and spirituality, 7th graders how to create community. They also want to know that, breakers, we will hold panel discussions their own Jewish educational program, and beyond their parents and teachers, their peers with veteran b’nai mitzvah parents even subbed a 2nd grade class a few times and friends have not forsaken them. We and post-b’nai mitzvah students who as a way of learning about a class and its know that teens crave social interaction as will share their experiences, answer dynamics and how our curriculum works a way of maturation between childhood and questions, and make some great in reality. Each time I have taught, I have young adulthood. Without that, depression, recommendations. This will be followed found it rewarding, enjoyable, and helpful anxiety, isolation and mental health issues by an opportunity for parents and in thinking about the classroom both from arise. Now is the time for us to help them and upcoming b’nai mitzvah students to meet teacher and student perspective. guide them to stay physically and mentally healthy. and share their expectations, hopes and experiences. In the spring, when we closed Talmud Torah and quickly reopened virtually, I spent This October Sarah Jarvis, our director Register online at https://www. every waking moment trying to figure out of youth engagement and I, embarked on bnaiisraelcong.org/event/6thgradebnai how we could manage everyday tasks and reaching out to all of our teens in the hope mitzvahexperiencepart1. stay connected. As summer progressed, it that together in partnership, we can create a became apparent that we would remain in new approach to teen engagement that meets This program will take place outdoors. a virtual mode. Once again, I was faced their needs for community and meaning in In the event of inclement weather, we will with preparing teachers for the ongoing their COVID lives. Whatever the outcome, hold a virtual program. challenges of teaching from home on a we are committed to doing all that we can computer. Like many of us, adaptation can as synagogue educators and professionals be difficult and for some it requires much in supporting our teens. If you are a parent hand holding and training. of a teen, please contact us and let us know how we can help. As they say, “It takes a I also read and attended webinars dedicated village.” In this case we want B’nai Israel to engaging students on Zoom. Little did I to be their village! know that my SECD (Social Emotional and Character Development) training would
12 NOVEMBER 2020 in-person, which is vital for the development of teens into young adults. Giving them a safe space to discuss both the “highs” and COLLEGE the “lows” of their lives will help them, and will also help us to better understand what CONNECTION! our teens need to thrive and flourish. If you are a college student or the I am very excited about this initiative and parent of one, sign up for College hope it can continue for many years to come, Connection today. Packages have not just as a way to get people out of their included Starbucks gift cards, holidays houses during such a difficult time, but as a gifts, candy, and more. way for us to come together as a community and foster the development of Jewish youth Don't miss out! who will go on to be the next generation of www.bnaiisraelcong.org/college YOUTH EVENTS Jewish leaders. by SARAH JARVIS Director of Youth Engagement
One of our strengths at B’nai Israel is our ability to partner with various groups within Carl & Doris Lane the congregational community to create meaningful and engaging programming. YOUTH During the pandemic, this has been DEPARTMENT B'nai Israel especially true as we seek opportunities to work together, which is why I am excited to EVENTS Cookbook announce a new initiative between the Youth Project Department and the Education Department: Teen Talks! BONIM (GRADES K–2) I am passionate about ensuring that our Baking with Bonim teens feel that they are heard and understood Sunday, November 8 during this difficult time. We are all facing 1:45–2:45 PM challenges during this time, and I want to Make some sweet treats with all of your make sure that our teens have the support Bonim friends. Be a Part of the B’nai and resources that they need to address Israel Cookbook their challenges. Being a teenager is already Do you LOVE to bake and cook? Even such a confusing time, and then add to it a MACHAR (GRADES 3–5) if you don't, send your favorite recipes pandemic and it can become overwhelming. Jewish Bingo That is where Teen Talks comes in: We are (up to three) for our new B'nai Israel Sunday, November 8 Cookbook. During this difficult time, aiming to create opportunities for teens in 12:30–1:30 PM grades 9–12 to gather together, in-person we can share our favorite recipes with Get ready to say “bingo” during this each other and with our families. (with social distancing, of course!). fun afternoon program. Once completed, this cookbook Our goals are: to help teens build new will be sold as a fundraiser and will friendships, to cultivate and nurture existing make a great gift and addition to KADIMA & USY (GRADES 6–12) friendships, to give them a chance to gather your kitchen! We'd also appreciate and share their concerns in a safe space, and Murder Mystery Party any photos of your food, your family Sunday, November 15 to give them a space to be themselves and enjoying your food, or your family 3:00–4:00 PM celebrate the good that is still happening cooking your food, that you'd be Find out “who done it” during this in our individual lives. We hope that the willing to allow to be published in the interactive program. connections they build during Teen Talks cookbook. will continue after this is all over. Send your recipes to either Lynn Teen Minyan (Grades 7–12) Rayman ([email protected]) or We feel that giving them a chance to meet in Saturday, November 7 Jeff Fredman ([email protected]). person is crucial. Most of their interactions these days, especially when it comes to 10:30 AM school, are online via Zoom or some other video platform. By meeting in person we are giving the teens a chance to socialize
NOVEMBER 2020 13 Rabbi Matthew Monday Night Movie Simon's Winter Book Discussion "The Review Cousin" Sunday November 8 Monday, November 23 10:00–11:00 AM 7:30–8:30 PM Join us once again for Rabbi Presented as a comedy, Matthew Simon’s seasonal A family man’s loyalties book review series, full and values are tested when of information, insight and interesting his Palestinian handyman is the target of anecdotes. venomous accusations by his neighbors. To Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/97848416190 watch this movie Prior to the discussion, rent it for $4.99 on Amazon or FREE with Amazon Prime. (1 hr. 32 min.; Hebrew with B’nai Israel Book English Subtitles) BLUMBERG-ZALIS Discussion Group Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/91942507838 FAMILY LIBRARY Wednesday, November 11 by JILL GENDELMAN 11:30 AM–12:30 PM Followed by author Librarian Presentation on Sunday, November 22 Introducing Our New (see program listed Each November, we celebrate, what was JSSA Synagogue Liaison once Jewish Book Week, now known below) Hidden in Plain Sight by Karen Batshaw as Jewish Book Month, heightening our awareness of our Jewish identity and Anna, a young Jewess from Salonika, enriching our Jewish lives, reconfirming has gone to live in Athens. Trained as a that we are “the people of the book” quite doctor, Anna knows if the German army literally! The month commemorates the invades, she will no longer be allowed to thriving vitality of Jewish culture around the practice medicine at the hospitals. With NAOMI LEVINE world. It is a celebration of literature, film, great anguish, Anna masks her faith and MS, LGMFT theatre, art and music, and an opportunity her vocation to live as a Christian and avoid Synagogue for the Jewish community to share in various arousing any suspicion. Documenting the Liaison terrible brutal occupation of Greece by the events related to this celebration. Please The JSSA Synagogue Liaison program Nazis, Hidden in Plain Sight shines a light consider joining us for one of our many is a partnership between JSSA and local on the plight of Greece’s Jews and the brave events marking Jewish Book Month. congregations as an additional support to attempts of the Archbishop of Athens to families. As a JSSA Synagogue Liaison, protect them. Available in the B’nai Library Naomi LeVine, LGMFT, provides Upcoming Programs upon request (pick-up at guard’s desk) or consultations, support, and referrals to Amazon.com (free with Kindle unlimited, members of our synagogue regarding a or $2.99 on Kindle or $11.99 in paperback). Author Presentation wide variety of concerns. Sunday, November 1 Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/92855269762 11:00 AM–12:00 PM Naomi is a marriage and family therapist The Lives of Isaac Stern licensed in Maryland. In addition to by David Schoenbaum, couples and families, Naomi works member of B'nai Israel Author Presentation with children, adolescents, and adults A centennial celebration Sunday, November 22 with a wide variety of concerns. She of the sixty year career 11:00 AM–12:00 PM has experience providing mental health and legacy of Isaac Stern, one of the first Join us for an interactive support in community clinic, domestic made-in-America violin virtuoso America’s discussion with local author violence outreach, summer camp, and twentieth century’s greatest musicians: Karen Batshaw as she private practice settings. Her areas from his formative years in San Francisco shares insights as to why of focus include anxiety, emotional to concurrent careers as an activist, public she wrote her book, how she conducted her regulation, issues with self-image citizen, chairman, and cultural leader research, her follow-up novel Light and and identity, navigating transitions, in the Jewish community who began as Shadows, and any questions and comments pre-marital counseling, parenting, an American dreamer and left a lasting you may have. communication, and separation and inheritance to his art, profession, and the Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/94370327805 divorce. world,, along the way developing young talents—including Itzhak Perlman, Pinchas Zukerman, Yo-Yo Ma, and Midori. Co- If you need support, please contact Sponsored by the Men’s Club, Sisterhood, Naomi ([email protected], 240-405- and the library. 6705). Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/95515571285 14 NOVEMBER 2020 religious backgrounds and practices in relation to the country they live in. This is the second session this year in the “Women UPCOMING ISRAEL in Judaism” series, focusing specifically on the comparison between Jewish women’s PROGRAMS experiences in the U.S. and Israel. Unlike the “Unorthodox” series in May, this session will be open to men as well, and I am excited Drop-In Hebrew Prayer to have men join this important discussion. Reading Tuesdays, 2:30–3:30 PM My personal Jewish journey has not only November 3, 10, 17, and 24 been influenced by Hartman and my See page 6. education there, but from women in the U.S. and Israel who have encouraged me Israel’s Most Daring Operations israel corner to explore and to learn in order to find my with Netta Asner-Minster by NETTA ASNER-MINSTER comfort zone in Judaism. I am hoping that Wednesday, November 11 Congregational Shlicha this panel will inspire others to learn more 7:30-8:30 PM about the variety of experiences Judaism See page 6. has to offer for women both in the U.S. and In the winter of sixth grade my parents and Israel. The Variety of Women in Judaism I had a big decision to make: Where would I Thursday, November 19 attend middle school and high school? This Hope to see you there! 1:00–2:00 PM decision would determine where I would See page 7. study for the next six years. The first option was to continue at Evelina D. Rothschild, a religious school for girls where I had been going for elementary school. My mom and The congregational shlicha program is made aunt had gone there for high school too, possible by a partnership with the Jewish when they were growing up. Federation of Greater Washington. miihxq SERETIME But the other option for me was a new Israeli Movie Night school beginning its first year, Hartman Girls, affiliated with the Hartman Institute. Hartman was unique for various reasons: there was a school-wide all-women's service Israel Date with Netta! every Monday and Thursday including Torah reading, they emphasized learning Are you interested in learning how to Talmud and Jewish philosophy, and even make Israeli food? Or learning how to had unique exercise classes such as yoga and play an Israeli game? Or do you have improvisation. Hartman provided a unique some burning questions about Israel? new outlook on education for women in Wednesday, November 18 the religious world. As someone who had Families, adults, and teens are invited to 7:30–9:00 PM been passionate about praying and enjoyed arrange a virtual or social distanced studying in-depth, I easily chose Hartman. “Israel date” with our shlicha, Netta! Join our shlicha, Netta Asner-Minster, Please fill out this form and Netta will for an Israeli movie and discussion, Despite the fact that Hartman was an easy get back to you soon. exploring the variety and complexity and suitable choice for me, the school of Israeli society. We will be watching was not always looked upon favorably by https://bit.ly/3aR9701 Sallah Shabati, about Mizrachi Jewish others, both inside and outside the school. immigration and their integration into The women who founded and taught in [email protected] Israeli society. The discussion that the school were passionate, and they were follows will provide more information pioneers in their own way. I have been on this subject and elaborate on the inspired by them on my own Jewish journey issues expressed in the movie. and through the school have been exposed to the many colors and variety of Judaism Register online at https://www. generally and in Israel specifically. bnaiisraelcong.org/event/ israelimovienight. Zoom information On November 19th, I will be moderating included in confirmation email. and leading a panel of women from the U.S. and Israel who will talk about their
NOVEMBER 2020 15 SOCIAL Let Us Build a World of ACTION Kindness (Ps. 89:3)
B’nai Helps Deliver Rosh Hashannah Mitzvah Packages Families from B’nai Israel participated with Confirmation Class of 1988 JSSA on Sunday, September 13 in delivering Day Rosh Hashannah packages to families in the The Fine Arts Committee Rockville area. Many thanks to: Dorothy SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 Needs Your Historic Cohen, Amanda Goldstein, Linda Heller, B'nai Israel Photos! Adam and Jonah Possner, Andrea and Matt Nadelman, Julian Goldman, Paulette Kaffee, The Fine Arts Committee is working on Yvonne Klinger & a project to display the history of B'nai Randi Poli, and Signe Wetrogan for their Abigail Bortnick Israel through photographs. We are in participation. Chairs need of the following: Confirmation Class Holiday Gift photos for the following years: www.bnaiisraelcong.org/ any photos prior to 1954, Snowflake Project mitzvahday 1958, 1959, 1964, 1967, 1970, 1972–1982, 1984–1986, 1994–2001, 2009–2013.
Historical photos of B'nai Israel synagogue and/or events that have taken place throughout it's long history—weddings, b'nai mitzvahs, programs, graduations, class photos, This year, once again, B’nai Israel will etc. be helping to make holiday wishes come Support B’nai Israel’s true for children identified by the Linkages If you have any of these photos, for Learning Coordinator at Weller Road please consider sending them to us to PROJECT reproduce. Your original photographs Elementary School. Donated gifts and gift will be returned once they are copied. cards will be collected in December. Contact MANNA Signe Wetrogan ([email protected]) to Please contact Randy Sager Urgently Needed Food Items receive more information. ([email protected]) (though we take all nonperishable for more information. food items)
Meals for Interfaith Works Women’s • Instant Oatmeal Packets Shelter (Original Flavor) Sunday, December 6 • Brown Rice 11:30 AM • Whole Grain Pasta B’nai Israel will be providing brunch for • Tuna/Salmon/Chicken (in Water) the women at the Interfaith Works Women’s • Dry/Canned Beans (Low The new and expanding Shelter at 11:30 AM on Sunday, December Sodium) B'nai Israel 6. We need your help in supplying various • Natural Nut Butters Judaica Museum parts of the meal. The meal items can • Canned Vegetables (Low is actively soliciting fine antique/ be purchased or prepared in your home. Sodium) • Canned Fruit (in Juice) vintage Judaica for its collection. There will be various options for drop off • Fruit Cups of your items. The meal items should serve • Shelf-stable Individual Milk Boxes If you have any items you would like 8 to 10 people and be in disposable pans. • Cooking Oils & Spices to donate or would consider lending Sign up at https://www.signupgenius. to B'nai Israel for display, com/go/20f094aacac22a02-brunch1. For Thank you for your commitment to this life-giving mitzvah! All food items will please contact Randy Sager, more information, contact Signe Wetrogan be directed to the Manna Food Center. Fine Arts Chairperson ([email protected]) or Wayne Berman ([email protected]). ([email protected]).
16 NOVEMBER 2020 MEN’S CLUB SISTERHOOD JUDAICA Service to B’nai Israel & Community Strengthening Jewish Values SHOP Building Friendships
We hope everyone had a meaningful holiday Are you ready season and you were able to worship in the for Hanukkah? manner you felt most comfortable. After Simhat Torah we are able to take a breather We are open by appointment only and follow CDC rules for safety. and look forward to Thanksgiving and September & October Recap Hanukkah! At our open Men’s Club meeting we adopted We have many new a new set of by-laws reflecting how we beautiful arrivals of: November starts out with an author now operate as affiliates of the National presentation we are pleased to co-sponsor Federation of Men’s Clubs and B’nai Israel. Tallitot with the Sisterhood and the Blumberg- This was the first revision since 2004 and Jewelry Zalis Family Library. Our member David we appreciate the work of the by-laws Challah Boards Schoenbaum will be discussing his book committee led by Jonathan Salant with input Challah Covers The Many Lives of Isaac Stern on Sunday, by Dan Fisher, Rob Loewy, Bernie Rod, Jeff Menorahs November 1 at 11:00 AM. Please look for Fredman, Alan Isenberg, Mark Berlin, Eric Gifts for a New Baby details and sign-up information on page 14. Luftman and Bram Hass. We apologize if we have left anyone out. Wedding Gifts On Sunday, November 8 at 11:00 AM we are introducing our new activity, which We would like to take this opportunity to we hope to make a regular feature, our thank our member David Sotsky for his walking group. The first activity will be a September 16 Zoom presentation on the state social distanced, self-guided tour of historic of the economy in our COVID-19 world. African-American downtown Rockville, our Some great information was presented and first in-person gathering since March! This is appreciated. open to men and women and will be coupled with a Zoom talk on Thursday, November Our Political Forum took place on Sunday, 12 at 7:30 PM by Miriam Bunlow from the October 18 with our area's two congressional Peerless Rockville Historic Preservation incumbents and their opponents participating. Museum. She will be providing more details This event took a massive amount of about these sites as well as other historic planning by our co-president elect and sites in Rockville. moderator Jonathan Salant, his son Izzy and Larry Lesser. Izzy actually Zoom-directed Please note: registration is required for both the event from Massachusetts and we thank programs, but you can choose one or both: them for the time spent putting it all together. attendance at the walk is not required for participation in the Zoom talk. Registration Our other big October event was the Health for the walk is with Steve Goldberg Awareness program October 29. A big To make an appointment, ([email protected]) by noon on “yasher koach” to Bram Hass and Wayne contact Debbie Anolik Friday, November 6. After registering Steve Berman for putting this together and a huge ([email protected]) or will send out guided tour information to thank you to all of the health professionals Lisa Isenberg (301-963-4511). everyone Friday afternoon or after Shabbat who participated. A review of this event will Saturday evening. be shared in the December Scroll.
Thursday, November 19 we are hosting our In closing we would like to extend our first Jews and Brews featuring Rabbi Michael wishes for a complete recovery for our Safra leading a thoughtful discussion on member Mark Berlin who has been going Jewish values related to racism and racial through some very serious health issues equity. As this program is on Zoom it will recently. be open to men and women. Please RSVP to Wayne Berman ([email protected]). Lewis Gertz & Wayne Berman FOR ALL YOUR Co-Presidents JUDAICA NEEDS www.bnaiisraelcong.org/mensclub
NOVEMBER 2020 17 SISTERHOOD
The Lives of Isaac Stern What is Torah Fund? Sunday, November 1 (Part One) 11:00 AM–12:00 PM The Torah Fund Local author and B’nai member David campaign began in 1942 Mah Jongg Cards Schoenbaum presents his new book. Co- as a scholarship fund. If you ordered 2020 mah jongg cards and sponsored by Sisterhood, Men’s Club, and In 1963, it merged with have not yet received them, please contact the Library. the Mathilde Schechter Harriet Levi (301-598-3957) or Linda Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/95515571285 Residence Hall campaign that provided Reisner ([email protected]) to arrange for housing for undergraduate students. In time, delivery. Additional 2020 cards are still The Variety of Women in Judaism the campaign identified needs and raised available for purchase. Please contact either Thursday, November 19 funds for specific projects, including: Linda or Harriet for details. 1:00–2:00 PM Join our shlicha, Netta Asner-Minster, for • Women’s League Educational the second session of “Women in Judaism”. Pavilion (Kripke Tower) Sisterhood Membership Dues Netta will be hosting women from different • Women’s League Seminary Complete the membership registration form Jewish sects in the U.S. and Israel to share Synagogue and mail it together with your check made about their practices and beliefs. Co- • Mathilde Schechter Residence Hall payable to B’nai Israel Sisterhood to: sponsored by Sisterhood and Men’s Club. Renovations See page 7 for registration information. • Goldsmith Hall B’nai Israel Sisterhood • Residence Hall at the American c/o Lisa Isenberg Meals for Interfaith Works Women’s Jewish University 18313 Amber Meadows Court Shelter • JTS Quadrangle Gaithersburg, MD 20879 Sunday, December 6 • JTS Library Bookshelves 11:30 AM • Schechter Institute of Jewish Studies For additional information or questions B’nai Israel will be providing brunch for Garden contact Debbie Moss (debmoss55@comcast. the women at the Interfaith Works Women’s • Women’s League Study Space net) or Signe Wetrogan (signe0420@ Shelter at 11:30 AM on Sunday, December verizon.net). 6. We need your help in supplying various For the past several years, funds raised by parts of the meal. The meal items can Torah Fund have gone toward scholarships be purchased or prepared in your home. and programming at the five Conservative/ There will be various options for drop Masorti institutes of higher Jewish learning. Sisterhood Membership off of your items. The meal items should Read about these schools in the next Scroll. Registration Form serve 8 to 10 people and be in disposable pans. Sign up at https://www.signupgenius. B’nai Israel Sisterhood’s Torah Fund is proud to have achieved its financial goal com/go/20f094aacac22a02-brunch1. For Member Name more information, contact Signe Wetrogan for 2019–20 with your help. We hope you will continue your support and donate again ([email protected]) or Wayne Berman Address ([email protected]). this coming year. You can make an online donation at jtsa.edu/torah-fund or by check City/State/Zip Code Flowers for Thanksgiving? made out to Torah Fund and mailed to Sue Taffet (14402 Nadine Drive, Rockville, MD We may not be able to celebrate the holiday Home Phone with family and friends, but you can send a 20853). beautiful arrangement to say that you are Cell Phone thinking of them. $55 for local delivery and Sue Taffet ([email protected]) and Debra Fredman ([email protected]), Torah Fund $65 for out-of-area delivery. Contact Linda Email Address Heller for details ([email protected]). co-chairs. q New congregant (joined after 4/1/2020) Washington Jewish Week q Washington Jewish Week subscriptions are $36 General Member $55 for one year and $100 for two years (for q $54 Sarah seniors 55+, $42 and $76). Contact Linda q $72 Rebecca Reisner for more information (301-519- q $90 Leah 1776, [email protected]). q $120 Rachel q Additional contribution $______www.bnaiisraelcong.org/sisterhood
18 NOVEMBER 2020 aeh lfn mazal tov November Anniversaries Stewart and Barbara Bushman – 20 Ira and Kristen Mirsky – 20 Jeffrey Fenster and Rachel Wollitzer – 1 Jonathan Forest and Pam Martin – 21 Steven and Rachel Kerchner – 2 Lawrence and Mindy Nadel – 21 Michael and Michelle Logsdon – 2 Jonathan and Jenna Schilit – 21 Joel and Jennifer Eisenfeld – 22 Joel Michaels and Jennifer Russel – 2 We are all touched by Neil and Marcie Jacobs – 22 David and Carrie Stein – 4 B’nai Israel. Nancy Van Grack and Joe Feinsod – 4 Mark and Judy Lerner – 22 Ken Winer and Emily Hofmann – 22 Ronald and Gail Minsk – 5 It makes a difference in our lives. And it Jason and Ilana Rubin – 23 Jeffrey and Stephanie Holtzman – 6 is our endeavor to ensure that it makes Michael and Deidre Sacks – 23 Doug and Sarah Kotlove – 6 a difference in our community for many Lee and Stacey Shenker – 23 Asher and Jill Gendelman – 7 years to come. Yoav and Jodi Gershoni – 7 Brian and Rachel Singer – 23 Stuart Lipshutz and Dori Silverman – 7 Glenn and Cindy Easton – 24 Michael and Nechama Fellner – 24 Jonathan and Stephanie Weiss – 7 As our parents planted for us, let us sow Steven and Laurie Forman – 24 Zack and Jamie Kramer – 8 the seeds that will make a difference for Robert and Gayna Kieval – 24 Craig and Robin Lenkin – 8 our children and grandchildren. Stephen and Ellen Kraft – 24 Michael and Dianne Michnick – 8 –Talmud Ta’anit 23a Andy and Faye Mitchell – 8 Ronald and Phyllis Levine – 24 Andrew and Lesley Ziman – 8 Mitchel and Jill Kider – 25 Ariel Rattner and Micaela Carmio – 25 Glen and Elise Goldstein – 9 CREATE YOUR JEWISH Kenny and Evalyn Cohn – 26 Stuart and Sherry Kaswell – 9 LEGACY Yale and Christine Goldberg – 27 Craig and Marcie Peters – 9 www.jewishlegacygw.org Aaron Bull and Lisa Garson – 10 Jerry and Carole Cohen – 28 George and Rona Eisenberger – 28 Arnold and Nancy Fanaroff – 10 As we celebrate our successes, we Jacob and Dorie Ravick – 28 Steve and Marjorie Goldberg – 10 are grateful for the commitment and Jonathan and Victoria Goldberg – 29 Barry and Shari Golob – 10 generosity of those who came before Aaron and Jessica Lieberman – 29 Ronald and Gale Greenbaum – 11 us. Dues and annual donations do not Ben and Yvonne Klinger – 11 provide sufficient resources for all we Jeff and Sally Lachin – 11 and Mazal Tov to... must do to sustain Jewish life at B’nai Andrew and Lisa Shulman – 11 Israel. And so we invite and encourage Ron and Sharon Gross – 12 Lois and Leslie Alperstein on the birth you to create your own legacy. Ernst and Nancy Billig – 13 of their granddaughter, Ella Meyer Cohen. Adam and Dawn Stern – 13 Mazal tov to the parents Lauren Alperstein It is so easy to make a planned gift or Myles Getlan and and Zachary Cohen. bequest through B’nai Israel’s Create a Leah Schmulewitz Getlan – 14 Jewish Legacy Program. Simply include Rob and Randi Poli – 14 Vicki Berman and Yeheskel Dori and Drs. B’nai Israel in your estate planning as Benjamin and Erin Willcher – 14 Jodi and Richard Reff on the birth of their a beneficiary in your will, under your Steve and Kim Cohen – 16 grandson, Owen Meyer Berman. Mazal tov retirement plan or life insurance policy. to the parents Lauren Reff and Lee Berman. Bryan and Amy Cole – 16 It carries no financial obligation in the Aaron and Shoshana Marcus – 16 present, but it will have a huge and Sherry and Lawrence Wachtel on the Howard and Sandy Arnold – 17 lasting impact on our future. David and Michelle Marquardt – 17 engagement of their son, Richard Wachtel, Dale Morton and Irma Goff-Morton – 17 to Laurel Gates. Bernard and Cheryl Rod – 17 Avery Sudow Joshua and Suzanne Schonfeld – 17 Development Director Leon and Ellen Taranto – 17 301-816-5569 Arthur and Carol Besner – 18 [email protected] Jason and Karen Silberberg – 18 Charles and Mindy Postal – 19 Harris and Michelle Bernstein – 20
NOVEMBER 2020 19 "For everything there is a IN SYMPATHY season, and a time for every dkxal mpexkf purpose...... a time to be born, and a time B'nai Israel Congregation extend to die..." AmazonSmile is a simple and automatic way for you to support B'NAI ISRAEL sympathies to our members: CONGREGATION every time you B’NAI ISRAEL shop, at no cost to you. When you shop Judy Cohen and Stacey Shenker at www.smile.amazon.com, Amazon will on the loss of their mother and CEMETERIES donate a portion of the purchase price to grandmother, Phyllis Snider your favorite charitable organization. B’nai Israel Congregation maintains Blumson. three attractive cemetery On your first visit towww.smile.amazon. locations. com, select B'nai Israel Congregation Cheryl Falk on the loss of her in Rockville to receive donations mother, Ann Falk. B'nai Israel Historic Cemetery from eligible purchases before you Oxon Hill, Maryland begin shopping. Your selection will be Robin Bortnick, Dr. Joanne Crantz, remembered, and every eligible purchase Judean Memorial Gardens you make will result in a donation. Dr. Michael Gittleson, Matthew Olney, Maryland Gittleson, and Michelle Marquardt on the loss of their mother and Garden of Remembrance grandmother, Geraldine "Jerrie" Memorial Park Gittleson. Clarksburg, Maryland
For information, please contact our There is ALWAYS Ernst Billig on the loss of his sister, executive director, Hal Ossman at something happening Rita Glanz. the synagogue office (301-816-5563, [email protected]). at B’nai Israel! Karen Goozh on the loss of her mother, Pearl Richmond. STAY CONNECTED
Stefanie Juster on the loss of her If you are not receiving our mother, Barbara Susan Rosenthal. electronic communications, please send your email address to [email protected]. Debby and Gary Bortnick, Robin Opportunities to and Dr. Bruce Bortnick, and many Bortnick cousins on the loss of Memorialize and their nephew and cousin, Richard Honor Your Loved Ones Shafritz of Atlanta, Georgia. Our beautiful Synagogue provides many meaningful opportunities to Marc Solomon on the loss of his arrange dedications in memory of or in father, Sidney Solomon. honor of loved ones. Visit MyJewishGeneticHealth.com Zachary Simms on the loss of his Memorial plaques, endowments, a free website designed to educate grandmother, Elizabeth “Betty” scholarships, capital gifts, fine arts, the Jewish community about Zeller. and educational programs are among genetic health conditions for which the possibilities available at B’nai they may be at higher risk. Israel Congregation. MyJewishGeneticHealth.com For further information, please contact consists of individual “lessons” Allison Karasik (240-221-2507, [email protected]). covering various topics relevant to the Jewish community, including specific diseases and medical conditions, genetic technologies, and bioethical issues.
20 NOVEMBER 2020 B’nai Israel Congregation deeply appreciates all contributions directed to the various funds of our congregation.
Please note: DONATIONSDue to increased printing and labor costs: Etz Hayim Humash 1. Each contribution will be acknowledged by mail to one designated recipient. dedication: $60, 2. Only contributions of $18 or more will be printed in the Scroll. Siddur Sim Shalom 3. Donor acknowledgements will be sent by email and will also appear on year-end statements. dedication: $30
Donations Made in September | DONATIONS CAN BE MADE AT bnaiisraelcong.org/donate
Karen Gerton Nursery School Enhancement Toby Herman Memorial Educational Endowment Endowments Endowment Fund In Honor Of: A Speedy Recovery For: Karen Keats’ birthday by Mike and Judy Herman Abrutyn Family Leadership Endowment Karen Gerton by Suzy and Sol Levy A Donation Was Made By: Wachtel Family Senior Programming Endowment Louis and Helyn Fanaroff Sustaining Endowment Stephanie Abrutyn In Appreciation Of: In Honor Of: In Celebration Of: Rabbi Berkowitz and Netta Asner-Minster for the The marriage of Katie and Harris Fanaroff by Robin Noah Friedman’s bar mitzvah by Vickie Abrutyn learning I have enjoyed by Laura Jacobs In Memory Of: and Bruce Bortnick Phyllis Cohodes’ beloved Sister by Vickie Abrutyn The wedding of Harris and Katie Fanaroff by Sharon and Steve Moss Wilma and Ron Lenkin Holocaust Education B’nai Israel clergy and staff for all the wonderful Endowment Beverly G. Schnitzer Tikun Olam Endowment In Honor Of: efforts during this pandemic by Wendy Fanaroff In Memory Of: Lewis Gertz becoming Hatan Torah by Wilma and Marty Trachtenberg by Rob Loewy The birth of Jayden Siegel by Wendy Fanaroff Theo Gittleson’s bar mitzvah by Wendy Fanaroff Ron Lenkin David Easton Video Education Endowment The new grandchild of Diane and Howard Schilit by In Memory Of: Wendy Fanaroff Funds In Memory Of: Annette Rayman by Cindy and Glenn Easton Aliyot and Honors Fund Irwin Epstein by Cindy and Glenn Easton Robert Minkoff, brother of Gail Chod by Debby and Gary Bortnick In Honor Of: Janet Lobatz, Maftir aliyah, Torah and Haftorah Diane Lipson Schilit Youth Endowment Robert Minkoff by Wendy Fanaroff reading on the first day of Rosh Hashanah by In Honor Of: Jerome Michael Goodman by Wendy Fanaroff Michael and Debra Lobatz Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz’s moving Yom Kippur Susie Abramowitz by Wendy Fanaroff sermon on the basis of his grandmother Phyllis Marshall Lewis’s mother by Wendy Fanaroff “Peshe” Waldman by Ellen Weiner Ava Sebastian by Wendy Fanaroff B’nai Israel Men’s Club In Honor Of: Ethan Ross Alperstein Sanctuary Garden Rabbi Henry and Yetta Segal Educational Lewis Gertz for the honor of Hatan Torah on Simchat Endowment Fund Endowment Torah by Sharon Seidel Moss and Stephen Moss In Memory Of: A Donation Was Made By: Libbie and Simon Rosenthal by Leah and Allan Daniel and Helene Bass Capital Campaign Fund/Building Fund Zendel In Memory Of: Robert Minkoff, beloved brother of Gail Chod by the Rabbi Joshua Rubinow Simon Memorial Robert Mitchell Minkoff by Jeff Fredman Alperstein family Endowment For Camp Ramah Tikvah Program In Memory Of: Edith and Charles Pascal Library Book Fund Goldie and Henry Stein Endowment For Special David Nebb by Charlotte Streidel In Memory Of: Education Hannah Schorr by Jill and Asher Gendelman In Memory Of: Rabbi Michael Safra Adult Programming Fund Jerome Michael Goodman by Jill and Asher Ann Falk by Chet and Rita Stein In Appreciation Of: Gendelman Rabbi Safra’s support, gentle humor, and thoughtfulness regarding the terrible loss of our Hazzan Robert Kieval Music Library Fund General Fund In Appreciation Of: beloved son. We are so glad to be a part of the B’nai In Appreciation Of: Cantor Perlman for his kind expression of sympathy Israel community by Martie and Jack Nebb The daily minyan for saying kaddish for my father by In Honor Of: and thoughtfulness after my husband’s death by Adam Levin Judy Saks being named as Kallat Breishit for Brenda Sandler and Family B’nai Israel with thanks for providing Zoom services Simchat Torah 5781 by Diane Boehr In Honor Of: so my husband and I were able to be together at your
Cantor Josh Perlman, for the kindness he expressed services during this Covid time by Feiga Herzog during my recent shloshim for my mother and for Ethel and Irving Schilit/Suzanne and Sol Lipson Eli Javaheri’s bris and naming ceremony by Irina and B’nai Israel’s clergy and Zoom services by Peshie Endowment For College Outreach Joshua Javaheri Chaifetz In Honor Of: Rabbi Safra and Cantor Josh by Steven Friedman and In Memory Of: The High Holidays live stream by Anonymous Julie Friedman Steven Stadd by Gail Feldman Shirley and Stanley Hayman Chapel Endowment Rabbi Berkowitz whose moving sermons at Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur touched my heart and are Helen and Herman Glazer Youth Endowment In Memory Of: with me still by Virginia Lipton Fund M. Ruth Bernstein by Carolyn and Jay Bernstein In Celebration Of: In Honor Of: Thelma and Melvin Lenkin Family Endowment The bar mitzvah of Nehemiah Isaiah Driskill by The birth of Miles Scholnick, grandson of Sherry and In Memory Of: Katherine, David and Eli Hatwell Larry Wachtel by Robin Bortnick Robert Minkoff by Rob Loewy CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE. NOVEMBER 2020 21 In Honor Of: Jodi and Mark Shulimson Tzedakah and Welfare Fund Our son and granddaughter Michael Schrier and Bobbi and Larry Shulman In Honor Of: Michelle Schrier who participated in Rosh Hashanah Marjory and Alan Siegel The clergy and executive director for the High services. And in appreciation of B’nai’s live streaming Leslie and Jerry Solomon Holidays by B’nai Israel Sisterhood which allowed us to enjoy them by David and Naomi Leslie Terner My reading the Torah in honor of the 50th Schrier Miriam and Sheldon Tommer Anniversary of my bar mitzvah by Bruce Lewis The bar mitzvah of Dylan Himelfarb by Robin and Vicki Uchill Rabbi Safra for always welcoming Stacy, Joanna, Bruce Bortnick Sherry and Lawrence Wachtel and us into B’nai by Debbie and Perry Immerman Yuda Dana by Suzy and Jack Menase Stacey and Aaron Weinberg In Memory Of: In Memory Of: David Abell by Nellie Abell Robert Minkoff by Anne and Jeffrey Abend HAZAK Barbara Susan Rosenthal by the Himelfarb Family In Memory Of: Yahrzeit and Yizkor Fund My parents, Max and Fanny Ross by Linda and Marty Trachtenberg, brother-in-law of Drs. Robert and A Donation Was Made By: Michael Sandler Marcia Kerchner by Harriet and Ted Fredman Margery and Alan Levine Rita Glanz by Michael and Jennifer Scher In Memory Of: Joseph and Stema Levy by Roberta Levy Liss HINEINI Campaign Steven Oser by Aaron Oser and Liz Lauren-Oser Robert Minkoff by Robin and Bruce Bortnick In Appreciation Of: Hannah Shamraevsky by Aelita Zagoskin The excellent on-line services by Anonymous Jeanette Zetlin Ceppos by Alan Pollin Greatest Need Services at Bnai for High Holy Days 2020 by Billie and Rose Klotz by Al and Sharlene Klotz and family Thank you to those who donated the cost of their Steven Sandler William Klotz by Al and Sharlene Klotz and ticket purchase from the Perlman Cantors Concert: The offering of the special blessings that Rabbi Mickey family Nancy Abramowitz and Mark Ellenberg Safra and Cantor Josh Perlman in honor of our 58th Ida Follender by Alice Follender Harris Rose and Stephen Abramowitz anniversary by H. Richard and Judy Freeman Gladys Follender by Alice Follender Harris William Bakshi The amazing dedication of our clergy by Haidee K. Jerome Goodman by Alice Strasser Bobbie Berger Bernstein Syd Shapiro by Allan and Susan Goodman Ann Berman B’nai Israel and all it offers by Ilana Bernstein Carolyn Gross by Amy Rosselle Susan and David Bick The clergy, staff and volunteers for all they do by Rose Fried by Amy Rosselle Diane Boehr Jo-Anne and Nick Fleischer Nelson Fried by Amy Rosselle Bonnie and Robert Chernikoff Everyone who worked so hard to make in-person services Max Gross by Amy Rosselle Lisa and Larry Cines possible on Rosh Hashana by Mr. and Mrs. Justin Epner Herbert Dagen by Andrew and Linda Dagen Robin Wind-Faillace and Walter Faillace Rabbi Safra for providing access to High Holy Day Robert Johnson by Anne Jarrett Thelma Fisher services by Nancy Robins Rose Chantker by Art and Ronnie Chantker Robert Fonner Cantor Josh for preparing Ethan Scott for his bar mitzvah Hale Friedenberg by Arthur and Gail Nimetz Judith and Richard Freeman by The Scott Family Louis Fuchs by Arthur and Sharyn Fuchs Arthur Fuchs In Celebration Of: Jack Goren by Audrey and Bert Greenberg Rhoda Ganz The new year by Mitchell Gross Saul Modlin by Barry and Amanda Modlin Lynn and Lewis Gertz In Honor Of: Reba Denenburg by Carol Vogel Debbie and Danny Glazer Judy Saks being named as Kallat Breishit for Simchat Beatrice Pollekoff by Carol Vogel Mickey Goldstein Torah 5781 by Diane Boehr Abbott Sachar by Carol and Stan Sachar Joan and Jerry Goldstein In Memory Of: Barry M. Clayman by Caryn Clayman Jaye and Robert Greenfest Dr. Robert Kramer, by the Jacobs and Kramer families Faye Perlmeter by Connie Kamerow Patricia Greenwel-Rojkind and by Ann K. Jacobs John Ferenstein by Connie Kamerow Carol and Barry Hartman Larry Levine, beloved father and grandfather by Rene Morris Gordon by David, Rebecca, and Emily Rita Hoffman Schecker Gordon Anne Jarrett and Shelley Honikman Regina Gordon by David, Rebecca, and Emily Alisa and Alan Isenberg Jonathan, Suzanne, and Amy Schilit Nursery School Gordon Elaine and Steven Keller In Memory Of: Joshua Gordon by David, Rebecca, and Emily Leslie and Larry Kline The 35th yahrzeit of Diane Schilit’s mother, Suzanne Gordon Sharlene and Albert Klotz Lipson by the Schilit family Robert Abel by Debbie and Danny Glazer Judy and Howard Kramer In Honor Of: Joseph W. Bortnick by Debby and Gary Bortnick Marjorie and Lawrence Kravitz The birth of Diane and Howard’s granddaughter, Eden and family Diane Lane Orly Benarroch by the Schilit Family Helyn Francis Steppa Fanaroff by Debby and Judy and Harry Lapping Gary Bortnick and family Susan and Brett Lazerus L.I.F.E. Lecture Fund David Fastovsky by Drs. Irina and Leonid Selya Wilma and Ron Lenkin A Donation Was Made By: Nina Saver by Drs. Irina and Leonid Selya Paula Pascal Levine Alisa and Alan Isenberg Galina Mankovskaya by Drs. Irina and Leonid Suzy and Sol Levy Susan and Robert Loewy Selya Bruce Lewis In Appreciation Of: Arthur Fingerhut by Earle and Arlene Fingerhut Dina and Alan Lipschultz L.I.F.E. lectures by Lois Kushner Cohen Zelman Gorewicz by Eddi Tisch Debbie and Jeff Moss The L.I.F.E. Lecture Committee and a superb fall series Rose Tauber by Edward and Alice Tauber Barbara and Martin Needle by Wayne and Nancy Eig Jacqueline Ouaknine by Edward and Alice Tauber Karen Post and Jonathon Nevett In Honor Of: Matthew Herbst by Elaine and Martin Book Gail and Arthur Nimetz Judy Saks, Kallat Breishit by Alice Harris All my departed loved ones by Ellen Rothstein Martha Nudel Sol Levy’s decades of good works by Susan Leibenhaut Weiner Annette Perlin and Joseph Gootenberg Arnold E. Sukrow by Ellie and Steven Kahan Jean Polatsek In Memory Of: Burton Schwalb by Estelle Schwalb Marci and Adam Possner Rita Glanz, sister of Ernie Billig by Alice Harris Louis Needleman by Etta Doris Ruth and Andrew Ritwo Rita Glanz by Marjorie and Stephen Goldberg Joseph Doris by Etta Doris Sylvia and Irwin Rosenthal Irving Niedelman by Gail and Steven Niedelman Randi and Russell Rothenberg Morning Minyan Fund and Family Ellen and Jacob Rothmel In Celebration Of: Nakhama Shapiro by Galina Beloglovsky Gail and Gene Rubinson The bar mitzvah of Noah Friedman, son of Steven and David Frank by Gerald Frank Adrienne and Arthur Rulnick Julie Friedman, grandson of Greg and Harriet Friedman Henry W. Isenberg by Heidi and Erik Feig Rene Schecker by Alan and Debby Berger Stella Emsellem by Helene and David Emsellem Wendy and Gary Schonman In Memory Of: Hyman Saginor by Hortensia R. Saginor Sarit and Russell Scott Rose Lobatz by Janet Lobatz Stella Emsellem by Irene Kaplan Beth and Richard Sheer Otto Lobatz by Janet Lobatz Murray Gold by James and Rhonda Gold 22 NOVEMBER 2020 Susan Gold by James and Rhonda Gold Hale Friedenberg by Janis, Jay and Lisa Datz Meta Abraham by Joan Barr THANK YOU FOR CELEBRATING Stuart Perry by Joyce P. Kirshenbaum Herbert S. Levy by Joyce Spechler THE HIGH HOLIDAYS WITH US! Gertrude S. Ginsburg by Judith Avrunin Marty Trachtenberg by Lara and Ken Kaufmann Estelle Rubin by Leonard Golding and Debra Golding Here are just a few of the beautiful emails we received: Chanita Garabito Arias by Leslie Garber Augusta Mandelstamm by Leslie Mandelstamm Solomon “Dear B’nai Clergy, Staff, Committees Vertner Mandelstamm by Leslie Mandelstamm and Congregation, What would I do Solomon Joseph Donald Berman by Linda and Mitchell without you? I feel this way under Berman normal circumstances and now, since Alvin Gelfound by Linda and Stanley Margolius the pandemic my gratitude has been Irving Spar by Lorraine Spar greatly multiplied. The continued Fannie Greenspan by Lorraine Spar Rubin Greenspan by Lorraine Spar efforts to keep us all connected in so Rose Spar by Lorraine Spar many ways, technology, personal letters Max Spar by Lorraine Spar of thanks, calls to all members and Walter Spar by Lorraine Spar special reaching out to our bereaved; Ira Tublin by Marilyn Tublin Eleanor Scherlis by Marilyn Tublin classes, lectures, meaningful sermons David Scherlis by Marilyn Tublin to keep our minds and spirits open and Hannah Schulman by Michael and Marlyn Heiserman challenged. What would we all do Sarah Forman by Mike Chernikoff and Lolly Shaperodatz without each other. Thank you.” Dora Wartska by Mila Sobel Doris Grossnickle by Monroe Grossnickle “Dear Clergy. I want to thank you for David Sukenik by Mordechai Yadin the lovely meaningful High Holidays Munish Sukenik by Mordechai Yadin Jack Pollin by Morton and Cynthia Zetlin that you so beautifully brought into my Irene Pollin by Morton and Cynthia Zetlin home this year. I realize the difficulty Virginia Goodman by Mr. and Mrs. Allan Goodman with which you all had to work. It Edith Pitler by Mr. and Mrs. Barry Greenberg Charlotte K. Lewis by Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Lewis was amazing, the services that you put Martha Reisner by Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey J. Reisner forth to us all. A huge Yasha Koacha Robert W. Brouse by Mrs. Barbara Polin to everyone for the terrific holiday, Bernard Fleischer by Nicholas Fleischer With such wonderful professional as Murray Goldberg by Randy Goren Greenberg Rose Epstein Reines by Richard and Barbara Daumit yourselves in charge of modern day Bessie Taffet by Richard and Susan Taffet Jewry, I truly feel that the future of Frances Levy by Richard and Susan Taffet our people is in the best most capable Aaron Belkindas by Riva Sokolsky Riva Belkindas by Riva Sokolsky hands.” Joseph W. Bortnick by Robin and Bruce Bortnick Jack Lustig by Robyn and Steve Lustig “I want to say thank you for the Sylvia Golden by Rozelle Grossman herculean task you undertook and with Ivan Gerson by Samuel and Adrienne Klewans William Schaechter by Sara and Robert Schaechter respect to which you and the Hazzanim and family succeeded, to make this High Holiday Sandra Ratner by Stan Ratner and family season so wonderful. Even with masks, Herman Herbst by Steve and Judy Goozh even with a vast array of empty chairs Ruth Graff by Stuart Graff Lillian Straus by Susan Kneller facing you, even with the technological Murray Rubrum by Suzanne Edwards and emotional challenges, you all brought the sounds and words and feelings and Dorothy Rubrum by Suzanne Edwards the spirit of the Holidays to your exiled congregation.” Evelyn Feigenbaum by Suzanne Edwards Ida Silberman by Sydelle and Irwin Silberman Bertha Baron by Sydelle and Irwin Silberman “We wanted to express our immense gratitude and appreciation. You all were Gussie Berman by Vicki Berman absolutely wonderful during the High Holidays. The attention to detail, the effort Gustave Berman by Vicki Berman and warmth really came through and was very much appreciated. We are very Helyn Fanaroff by Wendy Fanaroff and family Rita Lenkin Hawkins by Wilma and Ron Lenkin blessed to have you and you all made an otherwise complicated situation during Steven Edeiken by Wilma and Ron Lenkin a crucial time seamless. Miss seeing everyone in person but we really felt you all Sander Golyand by Yakov and Anna Khavtan were in our home with us as we reflected, prayed and celebrated.”
Yizkor Appeal In Memory Of: “The next best thing to being there in person. A great experience!” Rosalind Kay by Marvin Kay Nathan Kuperminc by Rachela Klein If you would like to share feedback on your experience, please email info@bnaiisraelcong. org. Thank you!
NOVEMBER 2020 23 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Gaithersburg, MD SCROLL Permit No. 2707 6301 MONTROSE ROAD ROCKVILLE, MD 20852-4120
Schilit Nursery School 301-816-5578 301-881-6550 Talmud Torah 301-816-5576 www.bnaiisraelcong.org
We want your child to spend EVERY DAY with us! Schilit Nursery School HALF-DAY & FULL-DAY Options • Ages transitional 2s, 2, 3, and Pre-K • Half-day until 12:30 PM • Full-day option until 6:00 PM • Flexible scheduling options We are so glad to have out students back in the building! WE ARE OPEN! 2020–2021 Registration is still available. www.bnaiisraelcong.org/nurseryschoolregistration RACHEL SIEGEL NANCY GOLDBERG Early Childhood Director Schilit Nursery School Assistant Director
301.816.5578 | www.bnaiisraelcong.org/nurseryschool Contact us to schedule a tour.
24 NOVEMBER 2020