Volume XXX March 2010 Number 6 ADAR/NISAN 5770 Congregation Temple Israel DATELINE St. Louis, Missouri

Congregation Temple Israel is a caring, inclusive community committed to living Reform Judaism and participating in the sacred destiny of the Jewish people and Israel through education, worship, and repair of the world. Noodle and Time of Favor to Headline March 14 TI Israeli Film Festival "Noodle" and "Time of Favor" will head- encompasses a moving romantic drama, line the 3rd Annual TI Israeli Film Fest on all captured against the beautiful Judean Sunday, March 14. Co-sponsored by the hills. The film subtly extolls the virtues of TI Israel Engagement Committee and the devout faith, while condemning religious Israeli House at Temple Israel. The festi- and political fanaticism. val is free, but seating is limited, and Both films are primarily in Hebrew, with reservations are required. English subtitles. "Noodle" is well-suited Both are highly-acclaimed and multi- for anyone age 12 and up. "Time of Favor" award-winning films. "Noodle" opens the is also best-suited for adults. Light Israeli film fest at 3:00 p.m. in the May Chapel. This crowd- refreshments will be served at no charge between films. pleasing film features Miri, a twice-widowed, 37-year-old For further information, call Linda or Jerry Koenig at El Al flight attendant. Her well-regulated existence is sud- (636) 394-6027. To make a reservation for one or both denly and unexpectedly turned upside down when her films, call the Temple Israel office at (314) 432-8050. Chinese cleaner leaves her 6-year-old son with Miri for an A panel of Israeli’s will lead a discussion following the hour...and never comes back. Noodle (the adorable boy) screening of the second film. doesn't speak Hebrew or English, so it's not easy for Miri and her sister to figure out where he lives and what 2nd Annual Shabbat St. Louis Service Planned happened to his mother. concept for last year's inaugural Shabbat This charming film is a Temple Israel will be participating in St. Louis service stemmed from an initia- touching comic-drama in the 2nd Annual Shabbat St. Louis commu- tive within the Reform movement to which two human nity-wide Shabbat service taking place at enhance the role of Shabbat morning beings...as different from 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 3, at worship. The Shabbat during Passover each other as Tel Aviv is Congregation Kol Am, 1023 Chesterfield has been designated for this community- from Beijing...accompany Parkway East in Chesterfield. A Kosher- wide service because it enables the great- for-Passover Kiddush reception will follow each other on a remarkable est number of congregations to partici- the service. We will be joining Reform and journey, one that takes them pate. This is the one Shabbat during the Reconstructionist congregations from St. both back to a meaningful year when most congregations do not Louis, St. Peters and Southern Illinois in life. have a Bar or Bat Mitzvah scheduled. sponsoring this unique collaborative At 6:00 .m. the film fest Participating congregations to date Shabbat service. We will not hold weekly will screen "Time of Favor." include B'nai El Congregation, Bible Study or our own Shabbat service at This film is a story of Congregation B'nai Torah, Congregation Temple Israel on April 3. We encourage romance and intrigue on an Kol Am, Congregation Shaare Emeth, Shir you to join us in attending the communi- Israeli settlement in the West Hadash Reconstructionist Community, ty-wide service. Bank, at a time when the (continued on page 4) country's political climate is The Shabbat St. Louis service is being explosively unsettling. When planned and organized by a committee of representatives from the sponsoring con- a militant Conservative Due to the late gregations in consultation with the Rabbi handpicks a brilliant February date for the Reform Rabbis of St. Louis. Nancy Kodner young scholar to be his is serving as Temple Israel's representa- Special Congregational Meeting, daughter's husband, she tive on the committee. The band official news concerning rebels and throws herself at HaShemesh is donating their musical tal- Rabbi Shook’s successor the scholar's best friend, a ent to accompany the service. popular young army com- Shabbat St. Louis is designed to pro- will be featured in the mander. "Time of Favor" is a mote the ruach (spirit) of celebrating April DATELINE. tense political thriller which Shabbat together as a community. The Congregation Temple IsraelMarch 2010 Page 2 DATELINE WorshipWorship ScheduleSchedule LEADERSHIP

OFFICERS Friday, March 12, 2010: Dr. David Weinstein 7:30 p.m. Service - Shabbat B’shir. Rabbi Feder will speak President Torah Portion: Exodus 35:1-9 David Chassin VP of Facilities Saturday, March 13, 2010 Yale Hollander 11:00 a.m. Service - Jessica Lazaroff, VP of Membership daughter of Jane and Lee Brotherton and Ken Kraus Dennis and Nancy Lazaroff will become Bat Mitzvah. VP of Strategic Planning JoAnne Levy Torah Portion: Exodus 36:1-7 Haftarah: I Kings 7:45-50 VP of Social Responsibility Jessica Lazaroff Larry Linkon Friday, March 19, 2010 VP of Fundraising 7:30 p.m. Service - Rabbi Feder will speak Ellen Brin Torah Portion: Leviticus 5:1-9 Treasurer Michael Weiss Saturday, March 20, 2010 Assistant Treasurer Carol Cohen 11:00 a.m. Service - Kelsey Culp, Secretary daughter of Jennifer and Cory Culp Diana Rothbarth will become Bat Mitzvah. Assistant Secretary Torah Portion: Leviticus 5:14-26 Haftarah: Isaiah 44:3-7 Kelsey Culp BOARD OF TRUSTEES Friday, March 26, 2010: Fred Cohen, Thelma Davidson, 7:30 p.m. Service - Rabbi Alper will speak Pamela Dern, Jennifer Deutsch, Torah Portion: Leviticus 7:35-38 Robert Epstein, Carla Feuer, David Golde, Marvin Goldfarb, Cathy Goldsticker, Ted Saturday, March 27, 2010 Greenberg, Bryson Hartranft, 11:00 a.m. Service - Sara Ory, Harvey A. Harris, Judy Jacks, daughter of Jean Schaffer and Daniel Ory Marcie Kalina, Nancy Kodner, will become Bat Mitzvah. Jerome Levy, Joelyn Knopf Torah Portion: Leviticus 8:1-13 Haftarah: Malachi 3:22-24 Levy,Arthur Lewis, Judy Lewis, Sara Ory Loren Ludmerer, Dr. Eric Mann, Tami Martens, Steven Monday, March 29, 2010 EREV PESACH - FIRST SEDER Melnick, Jan Offenbach Nykin, Laura Reichman, Dr. Friday, April 2, 2010: Howard Schlansky, Jackie 6:00 p.m. Light Up The Night Service and Program Sclair, Avery Seidel, Jeremy for Families with young children Shook, Arnold Spirtas, Eric 7:30 p.m. Service - Rabbi Shook will speak: “Not Enough Matza” Spirtas, Adam Wallis, Neil Torah Portion: Exodus 33:12-16 Wolfman and Susan Stiefel

Temple Israel DATELINE (USPS: Saturday, April 3, 2010 128-700) is published monthly THERE WILL BE NO SERVICE AT TEMPLE ISRAEL except bi-monthly July-August by WE ARE PARTICIPATING IN A REFORM COMMUNITY Congregation Temple Israel, #1 SHABBAT MORNING SERVICE AT CONGREGATION KOL AM (SEE PAGE ONE) Rabbi Alvan D. Rubin Drive, St. Louis, MO 63141-7670. Periodicals postage paid at St. Louis, MO. Monday, April 5, 2010 LAST DAY OF PESACH Postmaster: Send address changes 11:00 a.m. PESACH MEMORIAL SERVICE to: Temple Israel DATELINE, #1 The names of loved ones who have passed away since last Yom Kippur Rabbi Alvan D. Rubin Drive, St. Louis, MO 63141-7670. will be read at this service. Page 3 visit our website: www.templeisrael-stl.org If Not Now, When? by Rabbi Amy Feder On the cover of a recent edition of The New Yorker magazine, there was a four-panel cartoon depicting President Obama. In the first three panels, Obama is pictured approaching from afar, walking serenely on A few weeks ago, in a very tragic turn of events, water. In the final panel, he takes a false step and a group of spiritual seekers in Arizona lost their plunges into the depths, a look of surprise on his face. lives because they spent too much time in a sweat The message was clear--the President, viewed by so lodge. Following a practice of some Native many as a savior, appears to have lost his magic, and American tribes, the intended idea was to stay long we, as a result, have lost our faith. enough in a sweat lodge to induce a spiritual vision- Regardless of one's political stance, many of us can producing state among participants. A sweat lodge admit that the feelings of hope and excitement that is not a shvitz. Sitting in a sweat lodge is an ordeal. swept the country a year ago have dissipated. The Spending time in a shvitz is a m’chayyah. leader whom large numbers of people around the world The Shvitz (steam room) is a very interesting believed could walk on water, or at least come close, place. Consider for a moment all of the movies in has not yet succeeded in the ways we had hoped. Yet, which a steam room scene is present. I can think of as the cartoon and many commentators have pointed about a dozen without even breaking a sweat. Three of those were Roman Empire epics. By far, out, were our expectations too high to begin with? We the most creative dramatic steam room began as a elected Obama as president, not messiah. Placed so play and found new life as a “made for Public high on a pedestal, should we be surprised when, on Television fundraising” drama featuring Valerie occasion, our heroes and leaders stumble and fall? Perine and Bill Bixby. Of course, I am referring to In the Torah, the depictions of our Jewish heroes and Bruce J. Friedman’s Steambath. Most people remem- leaders are undeniably flawed, and this is done with ber Ms Perine’ s bath towel role. Few remember that intention. Through their failings, we are meant to find Friedman was writing a work of theology. His steam it easier to identify and sympathize with our ancestors. room was a vestibule to life after death. With no It is a comfort to know that even Rebecca struggled thought toward political correctness, God was por- with parenthood, that Jonah experienced depression, trayed as a Puerto Rican steam bath attendant. that Moses had anger management problems. When we Every doubt and question about the existence, read the stories of our people's heroes and see their goodness, and justice of God was raised in the weaknesses along with their strengths, we often find it sharp, no holds barred conversation that swirled easier to accept our own faults while still striving for with the steam. What is it about steam rooms that greatness. makes people loquacious? Yet there is a danger in focusing on the faults of our The shvitz at the new J is a case in point. It picks heroes and leaders, too. A few weeks ago, in a up just where the old J shvitz left off—-same play- B'yachad program with 6th graders and their families, ers, updated setting. With pulses of fresh steam, in less than five minutes, people are introduced to one groups of students and parents were asked to share another; establish who knows who’s relatives; calcu- what they knew about the biblical patriarchs and matri- late one another’s net worth; conduct ZAGAT quali- archs. One father shared how disturbed he was at his ty restaurant reviews; decide on Ram’s draft choic- group's responses: they discussed Sarah's jealousy, es; ban Mark Maguire from the Hall of Fame; pro- Joseph's egotism, Isaac's weakness. Have we taken our pose a solution to Middle East peace. There are a teachings too far in the other direction, encouraging few community Boards I know that might benefit our students to focus only on the faults of our leaders greatly by conducting their meetings in a shvitz. It and heroes? If we are too honest about the negative keeps things moving right along. traits of those we are meant to respect, do we lose the On a personal level, the shvitz keeps me ground- joy and hope that comes from having faith in heroes? ed in reality. The conversation with a St. Louis The answer, whether looking at the leaders of our native runs something like this: past or our present, goes back to the idea that all of us “Oh, you’re a rabbi? What shul? Temple Israel? are made b'tzelem Elohim, in the image of God. We Where’s that?” may have faults and weaknesses, but having been made It matters not how long you have been doing in God's image, we all have the potential for greatness, important things for a great congregation and com- even perfection. May we always strive to be the best munity. There are still people out there who have and godliest version of ourselves, and to remember never heard of you. It is a powerful spiritual moment—-an opportunity to consider carefully what that every day offers each of us, presidents, heroes, you did in your life that will be worthy of being and ordinary folks alike, the chance to reach that poten- remembered—-outside the shvitz. tial. [email protected] [email protected] Congregation Temple IsraelMarch 2010 Page 4

(continued from page 1) d¨R§vg Temple Emanuel, Temple Israel of Alton, IL, CHUTZPAH Congregation Temple Israel of St. Louis, and United Hebrew Congregation. Shabbat St. Louis Committee by Rabbi Michael Alper members to date are Jack Cohen, Ron Cytron, Nancy A few weeks ago at Shabbat services, a group of Gent, Colleen Isele, Nancy Kodner, Lesley Lutker, Dave Confirmation students from a nearby UCC church Siegel, Martha Senior, Kimberly Vonk, Sharon Weissman, joined us for a brief tour of the Temple and services. Carol Wolf and Carol Wolf Solomon. Their leader was a young man called Pastor Bob with For more information, visit the Shabbat St. Louis web- boundless energy and a purple streak in his hair, the site at www.shabbatstlouis.org. result of a recent overnight with his teenage students. Following the service, Pastor Bob came up to me to HAITI RELIEF DONATIONS share his appreciation, and he asked me, "Is there going to be Fellowship now?" I looked at him blankly A severe earthquake measuring 7.0 on the Richter scale devastated Haiti on January 12, 2010. This is the most for a moment, trying to figure out his meaning. "Oh, severe earthquake to hit that impoverished country in 200 you mean the Oneg," I answered, to which he now years. As in the past, the Reform Jewish community has a returned my blank stare. A student finally leaned in long history of generosity when natural disasters devastate to our conversation and bridged the language barrier. communities around the world. Your generosity at this criti- "Its all about the juice and cookies," she said. cal time enables us to play a role in recovery efforts and to And she was right. Often, the most important bring healing and hope to those whose lives have been moments that happen within any congregation are the affected. Donations to the Union for Reform Judaism Haiti ones that happen during our most casual, unstruc- Relief Fund can be made online or by check (note: Haiti tured moments. Catching up over cookies at the Relief in the memo section) to: Union for Reform Judaism Oneg, hanging out on the Bridge on Sunday mornings Attention: Development when TIFTY is selling bagels and coffee, sharing pop- 633 Third Avenue, 7th Floor corn and Evie Bernstein's amazing baked goods each New York, NY 10017 Tuesday with the Retirees; these are the moments Adapted by Rabbi Shawn Zevit from a prayer by Bradley Burston, when our community is at it's best, and often when I Israel News as found on the urj.org webside have the most opportunities to truly be a rabbi for A prayer for the people of Haiti, people. who, on a good day, You may notice that most of these events seem to must take heroic measures center around food. While food is certainly not a just to wake the next, requirement for a meaningful moment, the presence And who must now find a way of food allows people to feel comfortable, at ease, to live through the end of the world: and as a result, more open to sharing what is in their Compassionate One hearts and minds. A worship service may touch your whose relief work is beyond our capabilities Breathe life today into those buried alive soul, a class may challenge you to think, but more and strengthen the response capacity often than not, it's those few extra moments you of Your relief workers in this world share in the hallways that give you the glow of feeling To hear those who have yet to be saved, warm and welcomed. To hear those who have been saved Pastor Bob's term for these experiences, "fellow- but whose limbs and lives are crushed, To hear those who pray ship", is a wonderful way to think about these For those who can no longer pray for themselves. moments. When we take the extra time to share, to Source of Speech, embedded in the language of love have a conversation, we experience the joy of know- Fortify the souls of those who call out now in rescue ing that we are not alone, that there are others in our Life Force, expressed in the language of loss community who want to hear the stories of our lives Send strength to those who, with their last strength and offer theirs in return. Now seek nothing more than finding loved ones So the next time you're at Temple, whether drop- A prayer for the people of Haiti, ping off your child for Religious School or coming to a who on this day program or service, take a little time for fellowship take heroic measures just to survive, and meet some of the people already in your commu- And with the world's help, nity. And while you're at it, have a nosh. After all, it Will find a way is all about the juice and cookies. to live into [email protected] an new world, Though one rebuilt on the rubble of unfathomable loss. Source of Response to need Be the blessing Of prayers realized Page 5 visit our website: www.templeisrael-stl.org

Religious School Calendar TEMPLE ISRAEL March 2 Hebrew School EDUCATION CENTER Hebrew School Academy/Pre-Conf. Deborah Morosohk R.J.E., Confirmation March 6 Director of Education Mitzvah Mania March 16 NO HEBREW SCHOOL A new book crossed my desk this week. Sacred March 7 Parenting: Jewish Wisdom and Practical Guidance for Religious School March 21 Your Family's Early Years is a well written and accessi- 2nd Grade B'yachad NO SCHOOL ble guide to parenting babies and young children. Hebrew School The author, Rabbi Elaine Rose Glickman, uses words Academy/Pre-Conf. March 23 of Torah and Rabbinic Literature to guide readers to Confirmation NO HEBREW SCHOOL parent with spirituality as well as common sense. Topics range from mealtime and bedtime to discipline March 9 March 28 and teaching values. She approaches talking to our Hebrew School Religious School children about God and incorporating Jewish ritual Hebrew School into our lives. March 12 Confirmation There are a lot of good parenting books out there, 3rd/4th Grades but not many that integrate the best practices of our Shabbat Dinner March 30 time with the best lessons from our Jewish tradition. NO HEBREW SCHOOL The book starts with the premise that parenting is March 14 holy work. What a fabulous lesson for all of us to Religious School remember when our infant wakes up five minutes after we finally fall asleep, when our toddler com- pletes a work of art on the kitchen wall, or our teenager becomes defiant. We are doing holy work! When you think about our ancestors as role models, some of you may feel that some of our patriarchs and matriarchs may be found lacking in the parenting department. Are we truly proud of Abraham's obedi- ence to God in the matter of his son's sacrifice? Was Rebecca wise to choose Jacob over Esau and help Jacob cheat his brother out of his inheritance? On one level, our imperfect ancestors may give us hope that perfection is not a requirement of successful par- enting. We can all make mistakes without sentencing our children to a life of therapy. On another level, rabbinic teachings can help us delve into other aspects of our ancestors' stories and learn from them. As an example, the book uses Abraham's celebration of Isaac's weaning and some rabbinic comments on that celebration to encourage us to plan appropriate celebrations of important milestones in our children's lives. One of my favorite parts of the book would be the suggested blessings that can become a part of our routines with our children. Saying Shehecheyanu when they do something for the first time, reciting a blessing for healing when your child is ill, or singing Shma as a lullaby at bedtime are beautiful ways of weaving Judaism into the fabric of your lives. Sacred Parenting is a new addition to the Religious School's Rosenkranz Library. I hope that some of you will want to check it out. [email protected] Congregation Temple IsraelMarch 2010 Page 6

Could it possibly be March? Does that mean that spring is right around the corner and the dark cold days of winter are soon to end? Spring bulbs are getting ready to pop out of the ground, and there is a fresh feel- ing in the air! DECC began this time of year with the celebration of Purim. This is a favorite holiday at the preschool. We had a Purim parade and the students all dressed up in costumes. We made Purim treats for our mishloach manot bags and sent them to our friends and families. The older classes baked hamantaschen and acted out the DECC students in the Nature Center. story of Ester and Mordecai, while our graggers drowned out the evil Haman's name! We teach our students to be very brave like Ester and Mordecai. They acted on what they believed in, and saved the Jewish people. We learned that we all have the right to be ourselves!! DECC is also inviting all Dads and/or Granddads to take their DECC student/students to preschool on Wednesday, March 3 and stay for breakfast. Breakfast will begin at 8:15 a.m. What a great way for Dads or Granddads to start out their day. Our Conservation for Critter event is on Sunday, March 7. We invite the entire congregation to attend this event that focuses on our world around us. It is an annual event that brings together conservation minded groups together to better educate the general public about our wonderful world! We will have such groups as the St. Louis Zoo, the Butterfly House, and Gateway Search Dogs, just to name a few. It is an interactive event and YOU can become part of the exhibit by touch- ing animals, playing games, and gathering information. The event will take place from 1:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Above: DECC stu- DECC is so excited to be hosting this event this year and dents on an “air- hope that you will join us and learn about our natural plane” on their way to wonders! Mexico. Camp Shook registration is underway and there are so many new and exciting things for camp this year. Right: A DECC stu- This year the camp will be for kids ages 6 month to 6 dent enjoying Kidzroc. years. We are offering a Parent/Child swim class for campers under age 3 AND a Parent/Child KIDZROCK class. These will be special summer mornings for young Please join us for children to spend with a parent or caregiver. Also new this year is our YMCA certified swim program for all the Light Up The campers age 3 and older. All campers will also benefit from our exciting KIDZROCK musical program! Camp is Night Purim party. 8 weeks long and sign up is available in two week ses- sions. See page 20 for all It is also not too soon to sign up for DECC for the 2010 - 2011 school year. We have the MOST flexible of the details. programming around for students of all ages. All of our students also will be rocking out with our KIDZROCK pro- gram! Please give me a call to discuss all the awesome possibilities for next year. [email protected] Page 7 visit our website: www.templeisrael-stl.org TIFTY TEMPLE ISRAEL FEDERATION TIFTY Wins Awards OF TEMPLE YOUTH at the Winter Chavurah TIFTY's Spring semester is in full swing! In January, Please help me in wishing TIFTY a Mazel Tov. The we had a Sports Fusion event with the JYG and 20 people Weekend of January 15-18 we had 9 TIFTYites attend attended! February brought more fun with a Demolition Winter Chavurah at Shaare Emeth. Saturday night Ball program. Imagine playing basketball with lacrosse awards were given out. TIFTY won 3 awards! That's a sticks in bumper cars and you'll get the picture. We wel- comed 8th graders for the first time to this event, and lot at one event for such an up-and-coming young everyone had a blast. In late February, TIFTY planned youth group! We won the following awards: another successful Purim Carnival! Thanks to all those Programming Nerds and Jocks: volunteers who heped make it possible to run such a Very Stereotypical A++ programming awarded to great event! Jerry Thomeczek (for Fall Chavurah programs) March is in like a lion with two exciting TIFTY events. Must Cunning Mailer awarded to Liz Solomon On March 6, we'll combine with other St. Louis youth groups for a broomball event. And March 12 - 13 will be (For a creative membership write-up) TIFTY's annual Spring lock in. The theme of the weekend Rising Star for our awesome Religious and Cultural is "Would you rather" and we'll be exploring making Vice President, Healy Slakman Jewish choices with a variety of programming and a whole lot of fun! We'll take a quick break for Spring Thanks for all your help and support this year. Breaks and then be back in April with a lot more TIFTY Debbie Schultz and Jennifer Patchin fun! Visit us at www.tifty.org to find out more about TIFTY Advisors what's coming up for TIFTY! JUNIOR YOUTH GROUP TEMPLE ISRAEL JYG Are you at Hu Hot? Well, the JYG is! On February 20, JYGers gathered at Hu Hot for a delicious lunch together. And, for added fun, we invited the 6th graders along to join us! We'll be back together again on March 6 for our "Step Up" program with Club 56. We'll be heading to Incredible Pizza for an afternoon of fun and food! Lots of fun for all! 8th grade JYGers, you're now officially invited to TIFTY events, so check out what's happening on www.tifty.org! And 6th graders, plan to join us at the JYG events happening in March and April--mark your calendar for a fun event on April 10 with both JYG and TIFTY to celebrate our love of Israel! Got an idea for a fun JYG program? Contact your friendly JYG advisor, Debbie, at [email protected]. 5th and 6th Grade Club 56 Temple Israel Youth Group Club 56 had another great program at Sports Fusion on January 24th. Eighteen 5th and 6th graders climbed, dodged, jumped, ran, and put-putted our way through that fun afternoon. Alex Smoller was the top scoring 56er during our laser tag game. Mazel tov! We were so proud of Sydney Levinson, Rebecca Bloom, and the oth- ers for really stretching their way up the rock wall. Great Top: TIFTYites at Winter going! Chavurah. (Left to Right: A special thank you to Kristan Greenberg, Kate Claire Solomon, Jerry Clark, and Thomas Levinson for volunteering to drive Thomeczek, Healy us. That was so helpful! And a big Todah Rabah to Rabbi Slakman, Ellie Morosohk, Alper for helping chaperon. Your attendance helped Liz Solomon, Jordan make this event a success!! Ludmerer, Shari The next outing is set for Saturday, March 6. We are Mankofsky, Ben Kraus and going to Incredible Pizza from 12:00 - 3:00 p.m.. Please mark your calendars. It is the step up program...4th Andy Cohen. graders will be invited to become Club 56ers and the 6th Middle: Liz Solomon and graders will become TYGers. Hope to see you soon! Jerry Thomeczek Stephanie Rhea, Club 56 Advisor Bottom: Haley Slakman Congregation Temple IsraelMarch 2010 Page 8

Please join us for Sisterhood celebrated Tu B’Shevat with a Tu B’Shevat Seder. We enjoyed tasting various fruits. We talked about it being Spring in Israel and how they are planting trees at this time of the year. We have three different events planned for the month of March. Sisterhood's Passover 1) Our next “Dessert and Discussion” Book Club will be together with the Adult Education committe of Mitzvah Project Temple Israel. The book is Sarah’s Key by Tatiana De Rosnay. the date is Monday, march 8 at 7:00 p.m. in the Board Room. Debbie Moroosohk, our Director of on Tuesday, March 23, 7:00 p.m. Eduction, will review the book for us. in the Board Room 2) Our Sisterhood Passov er Mitzvah Project is scheduled for Tuesday, March 23 at 7L00 p.m. in the board room. this is when we bring in Passover foods To help put together (See flier on this page) to help feed the Jewish people in need right here in St. Louis. Temple Israel mem- Passover Baskets bers have come through with this Mitzvah Project for the past five years. Please help to make this a suc- for the Jewish Food Pantry. cess again this year.

3) Our next Sisterhood meeting will be on Please bring one or Monday, march 1 at 10:00 a.m. in the Conference Room. more of the following items:

I am going to end on a sad note. I. as well as any- one who has ever been in Sisterhood, amy very sad about the passing of a very special member, Sally Matzah Greenblatt. Sally was truly a Sisterhood leader and Matzah Meal held many positions of importance. Sally loved Temple Israel Sisterhood. She was a hard worker and Soup Mix loved to go to conventions. Sally was liked and respected by everyone in Sisterhood. Sally, we all will Cake Mix miss you. Susan Stiefel Macaroons Sisterhood President Gefilte Fish (cans) Come and Browse the Passover Candy Temple Israel Gift Shop or anything else Kosher for Passover for all of your Passover needs. R.S.V.P. to: Susan Stiefel, Seder Plates, Candles, (314) 434-1341 Matzah Holders, Elijah Cups, Haggadot Page 9 visit our website: www.templeisrael-stl.org The Rabbi Mark L. Shook Fund for Lifelong Jewish Learning Congregation Temple Israel is pleased to announce congregation's commitment to lifelong learning. the establishment of the Rabbi Mark L. Shook Fund for The creation of the Rabbi Mark L. Shook Fund for Lifelong Jewish Learning. Rabbi Shook is well known Lifelong Jewish Learning is just one facet of "A both at Temple Israel and throughout the community reMARKable Weekend: Celebrating the Rabbinate of as a master teacher. "He is truly a teacher for all gen- Mark L. Shook. The celebration weekend, culminating erations," says Deborah Morosohk, NATE, Director of in a festive dinner at the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac Education. He is as comfortable working with the Hotel on Saturday, June 5, will serve as Temple Israel's youngest preschoolers as he is teaching adults. primary fundraising event of the year, taking the place Rabbi Shook captivates young children with his story- of the annual August gala dinner-auction. telling and puppetry skills, particularly his portrayals Congregants can honor Rabbi Shook by becoming of the Sesame Street characters Cookie Monster and Benefactors of the weekend at levels ranging from Elmo. He has that special talent that enables him to $1,000 to $10,000. Benefactors will receive compli- connect with children while at the same time keeping mentary tickets to the June 5 dinner and will be listed their parents engaged with subtle touches of adult prominently in the tribute book for the event. humor. Congregants, businesses, organizations and friends Adults who have studied with Rabbi Shook marvel at can also place congratulatory advertisements or mes- his encyclopedic knowledge. "He never uses notes," sages in the tribute book. Donation opportunities start marvels congregant Bob Schnurman, a regular in at $72 for a name listing and go up to $500 for a full Rabbi Shook's Saturday morning Bible Study class. page advertisement. All of the proceeds from Rabbi Shook is a firm believer in the importance of Benefactor and Advertising donations will benefit the lifelong Jewish learning, and throughout his rabbinate Temple, with 10 percent designated specifically for he has made sure that adult education opportunities the Rabbi Mark L. Shook Fund for Lifelong Jewish are varied and plentiful at Temple Israel. A class Learning. Additional contributions to the fund in Rabbi taught by Rabbi Shook is virtually assured of being Shook's honor are also welcome. well attended. His sessions at the Temple's Tuesday For more information on the various donation oppor- Institute and Sunday Series adult education programs tunities for A reMARKable Weekend, contact Carol are always popular. The Rabbi Mark L. Shook Fund for Wolf Solomon at the Temple, 314-432-8050 or Life-long Jewish Learning will support existing adult [email protected]. education programs at the Temple and will further the Congregation Temple IsraelMarch 2010 Page 10

Pesach Pastries for the Pampered Palate

Join Temple Israel's own renowned chefs, Evie Bernstein, Diane Packman and Debbie Schultz for an evening of baking, eating, and schmoozing.

These three talented ladies will help us create scrumptious Passover desserts that will surprise everyone at your seder.

In just one evening, you will walk away with a tray full of gourmet Passover desserts and with one less thing you need to do to prepare for the holiday! You'll also receive recipes to add to your personal collection.

While sipping wine, noshing on cheese, and schmoozing with others, we'll watch and help as Evie, Diane and Debbie prepare tantalizing Pesadic desserts designed to fool the eye and taste buds!

No previous baking experience is necessary…just a desire to have fun!

When: Tuesday, March 23, 7-9 p.m.

Where: Kitchen of Temple Israel

Cost: $20, checks made payable to Temple Israel

RSVP: Seating is limited to the first 15 people. Call (314) 432-8050.

Questions? Contact Victoria Siegel, Director of Synagogue Community, [email protected] or (314) 432-8050, ext. 240. Page 11 visit our website: www.templeisrael-stl.org

Concessions will be available. Congregation Temple IsraelMarch 2010 Page 12

Join us for the 2nd annual

FRUIT OF THE VINE ...... a wine tasting at Temple Israel

Sunday, April 18, 2010 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Isserman Auditorium

Enjoy tasting fine wines and gourmet hors d’oeuvres.

Take advantage of wholesale pricing on a large assortment of wines from six different distributors...wine makes the perfect gift.

All proceeds benefit Temple Israel. Chairs Invite your friends...guests are welcome. Keith & Hui Hua Bernstein $25 per person before April 9 Jeff & Betsy Schechter $30 per person at the door Ron & Sarah Falkoff

Credit card payments by phone: 314-432-8050 Or mail checks payable to Temple Israel to: Congregation Temple Israel Attn: Wine Tasting #1 Rabbi Alvan D. Rubin Drive St. Louis, MO 63141 Page 13 visit our website: www.templeisrael-stl.org

Retirees’ Program

Join us every Tuesday afternoon for friendship, fun, and discovery. We provide the popcorn, desserts and beverages--you provideyour lunch.

this program is free and open to the public so tell your friends.

When: Tuesdays, 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Where: Harold Dubinsky Board Room

Date Activity Topic/Film

March 2 Film and Discussion Funny Girl

March 9 Speaker-Sharon Weissman “What Makes Hospice Jewish”

March 16 Film and Discussion Ben-Hur

March 23 Film and Discussion The 10 Commandments

March 30 NO MEETING (2nd Night of Passover)

April 6 Film and Discussion Crossing Delancey

April 13 Film and Discussion the Golem Congregation Temple IsraelMarch 2010 Page 14

Light Up The Night Shabbat Photo Album More than 170 parents and children attended the February 5 Shabbat service and program at the Temple. Shabbat will never be the same. A great time was had by all.

Congregation Temple IsraelMarch 2010 Page 16

LOVINGLY, WE REMEMBER THEM... (NAMES LISTED BELOW HAVE BEEN PLACED IN PERPETUAL MEMORIAL. FOR INFORMATION AS TO HOW YOU MAY PLACE A LOVED ONES NAME IN PERPETUAL MEMORIAL, PLEASE CONTACT SYDNEY MASIN AT [email protected]) March 7 -13 March 14-20 Edward N.Tepper March 28-April 3 J. Arthur Baer II Theresa G. Agatstein Ira L.Wagner Ben M. Berger Nathan "Smiley" Bender Irvin Bettman Arthur Michael Washauer Julia Sigoloff Cohen Bessie Bernhardt Michael Blumenfeld Klara Westheimer Arnold Harvey Cole Hattie Bierman Bella Cohen Abraham Wolff Albert L. Colowick Rose Bolgar Rachel Cohen Morton L. Zalk Dr. Harry Cutler Joseph J. Braman Samuel R. Cohen Jack Dubinsky Dr. Clarence Theodore Anna Cotler March 21-27 Joseph A. Epstein Eckert Dorothy Henrietta Dolgin Gertrude Silverstein Lory S. Fadem Jacob H. Epstein Abraham Edison Alpert Joyce Ann Conney Hilda Rose Fastman Carolyn Elaine Finkelstein Max Edward Arenson Flaherty Jeanne Gerstein Alberta H. Fisher Marguerite Strecker Baer Fannie Fox Miriam Londy Goldman Samuel L. Fox Harry Raymond Bean Hulda Arenson Freund Frances Guckenheim Bertha C. Frensdorf Norton Frederick Bender Emanuel Friedman Frieda P.Halpern Ann Steiner Friedman Jack Berg Edith Katcher Glaser Rabbi Ferdinand M. Isadore Fry Esther Offenbach Booke Eugene M. Goldberg Isserman Albert Gelber Morton Brand Nathan Goldberg Sidney H. Jacobson Julius Glaser Jonathan Israel Cohen Pauline Silver Goldman Rachel Bienenstok Kalish Stella Sommers Glaser Rosalind Geist Epstein Nathan Goldring Ralph W.Kalish Cecelia Goldman Martin Feist Harry Goldstein Nathan Lending Dr. Leo Gottlieb Leo Frank Herbert V.Goldwasser Samuel Ludwig Philip Gram Ida Vetsburg Friedheim Louis Good Joseph Mayer Harry Greenberg Oscar Frisch Nathan Kahn Fred J. Mishow John Julius Greenberg Dr. Jeffrey Scott Gall William P.Klauber Ben Muskin John J. Hamilton Jr. Carrie Glaser Samuel Kling Morris Neuberger Rose Schwartz Hearsh Lionel M. Herman Nathan Koslow Shirley Ades Platt Sadie Herman Marion Harris Isaacs Stella Weiner Kriegshaber Sol Reiches Sarah Shyer Hirsch Laura May Isaacson Curt B. Levi Charles S. Rice Sadie Pill Jacobson Fannie Isserman Jerome M. Lipkin Ida E. Rosenblatt Arthur Jungmann Moe Jacobs Yetive Schapiro Lipschultz Anna Rosenbloom Ernestine Kahn Frieda Steiner Klauber Bernhard Littmann Louis Rothgiesser Raymond Kohn Amy K. Lears Sol Loewenstein Saul L. Rubin Emily Landauer Max Lubin Norma Ludmerer Wallace Renard Ruwitch Ellis A. Levine Mildred Blustein Neuman Louis Abraham Platt Byrdie Medalie Sanowsky Mildred R. Levy Dr. Louis John Posener Sara Schermer Poe Joseph D. Schaefer Emma Berg Loewenstein Esther R. Rimmel Florence Rosenfeld Esther Perlman Schapiro Samuel Mages Ned Roberts Rabbi Alvan D. Rubin Rose N. Schasch Emil Manne Alex Rochman Abraham Lewis Schapiro Avery Schermer Ethel Orchard Sol Roos Sophie Schorsch Louis Schwartz Ida S. Platt Stanley E. Rosenfeld Samuel Schuchat Frank E. Sclair Henry A. Rossen Rose Rubin Ralph Sherberg Maurice Senturia Harriett Speier Harry Schasch Julia M. Shuchart Rosetta L. Siegfried Rostenberg Leo Schermer Stephen R. Shuchart Charles M. Silverman Ruth Ann Rubin Sadie Reichman Schucart Phillip L. Siteman Jack R. Smith Dena Sachs Karl Schweizer Margaret Snider Marcus H. Solomon Harold Sandmel Pauline Silver Theresa Hartmann Lena Meyer Steinberg Ida Schechter Rose Sigoloff Silver Stillman Bonnie Ellen Steuer Sam Schechter Sarah Stein George Studna Aaron Waldheim Alvin Serkes Max A.Wedeles Mildred Mae Talman Rose Wax David Silverman June Sachar Weil Elizabeth Waldman Alan Lee Weilitz Katherine Silverman Anna Weiss G. Daniel Woolf Sander Bernard Zwick Walter J. Skrainka Gertrude M.Weiss Florence Brown Yalem Anna Hendin Steinbach Dr. Richard S.Weiss Yetta Stromfeld Manuel Yanow Berenice Tenenbaum Page 17 visit our website: www.templeisrael-stl.org

CONDOLENCES We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of: Sylvia Cohen, Susan Fry, Sally Greenblatt, Carol Betsy Morgan, Barrett Scallet, Anne Wolkowitz

PERPETUAL MEMORIAL Carol Frank, Evelyn Orenstein

Names of departed loved ones may be perpetually memorialized by contributions to the Memorial Fund or the Wall of Honor. Inquiries may be made by calling Rabbi Shook’s office at (314) 432-8050.

THE SHIRLEY POST BIMAH FLOWER FUND February 19-20: In honor of Sydney Holt’s Bat Mitzvah. I am so proud of you! Love, Uncle Mikey (Michael Slawin). March 12-13: In honor of Jessica Lazaroff’s Bat Mitzvah. We are so proud of you and love you, the Lazaroff and Fedder families. March 26-27: In honor of Sara Ory’s Bat Mitzvah by her brother, Benjamin Ory. Bimah Flowers are a beautiful thought for special occasions and to remember loved ones. If you would like flowers placed on the Bimah, please contact Chair, Ann Epstein, #2 Wyndtop Lane, St. Louis, MO 63141, (314) 872-8159.

ONEG February 19: In honor of Sydney Holt’s Bat Mitzvah with love from Amanda and Michael Lucier, Laura and Sean Helmer, Jodi and Michael Kaplan, Sara and Jeff Bernstein, Janie and Eric Spirtas and Kim and Gary Bussard. If you would like to honor someone in a special way by sponsoring an Oneg Shabbat, contact Eli Montague at (314) 432-8050.

Tikkun Olam Committee G I V E - A - M E A L - A - M O N T H is looking for Volunteers MARCH Are you available a couple of hours each month to buy groceries for a small number of Covenant House For the month of March the Harvey Kornblum residents? Your Tikkun Olam committee is looking for someone to purchase groceries with funds donated Jewish Food Pantry is looking for these specific items for this purpose. Schedule is flexible, and food can be in order to provide well-balanced nourishment dropped-off at Temple Israel, where volunteers will for the community in need: deliver the food weekly to the residents. Thank you in advance for your interest! Please contact Pamela Tuna Fish, Peanut Butter & Jelly, Hearty Soups, Dern at (314) 991-8840 for more information. Canned Pasta with Meat, any type of Dry Pasta Caring Community and/or Rice, Canned Fruits, Healthy Snacks Volunteer to Cook on March 14 / 9:30-11:30 @ T.I. Items should be brought to your Temple or synagogue We are restocking for the Caring Community. Must be 14 yrs. or older. Please contact Pamela Dern at collection site. For further information, please contact (314) 991-8840 for more information on both of Louise Levine, (636) 227-1259. these activities. Congregation Temple IsraelMarch 2010 Page 18 Rabbi Shook to lead 11 day tour of Israel November 18 - 28, 2010 This is your invitation for discovery and adventure in Israel. Participants will walk the ancient cities our ancestors walked, explore the fortress of Masada and float in the Dead Sea. Our group will encounter Israeli Reform communities and celebrate Shabbat with them. We will study the pathways to peace with Israeli scholars and politicians. No vacation could offer more lasting memories. “I want very much to be your Israel tour leader, ‘said Rabbi Shook. “Whether you are a first-timer or a veteran traveler, a single, a couple, I promise you twelve days you’ll never forget.” The tour group will have a number of opportunities prior to departure to get to know each other, and to study the land and people of Israel. “Join me for a journey that will open your mind, touch your heart, and replenish your spirit!” The cost for the trip is $3,849. The rates are per person based on double occupancy. Airport taxes, (at this time estimated at $400) fees, security charges and tips are not included. The website for the trip is up and run- ning and you can view all of the details direct from our travel agent ARZA World. The website is http://www.arza- world.com. On the home page in the upper righthand corner you will see TOUR SEARCH. In this space enter TI St. Louis. You will find all of the relevant information and itinerary. If you have any questions you can also call one of the ARZA customer service representatives by dialing 1-888- 811-2812 and selecting option 1. You will be able to register online or over the phone with one of the represen- tatives. For more information, please contact Rabbi Shook at [email protected]. Congregation Temple IsraelMarch 2010 Page 20

TEMPLE ISRAEL DATELINE #1 Rabbi Alvan D. Rubin Drive VISIT YOUR TEMPLE PERIODICALS Ladue Road at Spoede ON THE WEB POSTAGE PAID Creve Coeur, MO 63141-7670 http://templeisrael-stl.org (314) 432-8050 V (314) 432-8053 Fax AT ST. LOUIS MISSOURI Volume XXX, No. 6 Address Service Requested

TODAH RABAH (THANK YOU)

Todah Rabah to Jerry Koenig and Joan Moscowitz for helping to stuff two synagogue mailings. Todah Rabah to our January ushers: Marvin Davidson,Thelma Davidson, Al DeSimone, Susan Fry, David Levine, Stan Schneider, Donna shanfeld and the Wides Family. Today Rabah to our January B’nai Mitzvah presenter: Thelma Davidson. Todah Rabah to Carol Cohen,Adam and Carolyn Goodman, and Joanna Owen for driving on our Mitzvah Mania field trips.

JOIN US FOR A M ARCH 5TH Purim Party WITH

NOODLES - H AMANTASCHEN - C OSTUMES - O H M Y!

PURIM PLAY STARRING YOUR CHILDREN ,COSTUME PARADE AND HAMANTASCHEN DECORATING

Noodles and fruit for the kids and wine and cheese for the adults. Service at 6:00 p.m. in the May Chapel. Dinner following in the Isserman Auditorium No RSVP required, casual dress or costume.