March 2019/5779 Volume 35 No

Congregation Monthly B’nai Shalom Connections mely ipa March 2019/5779 Volume 35 No. 7 Page 2 Congregation B’nai Shalom Worship Schedule Rabbis and Staff

Friday, March 1 Saturday, March 16 MAIN OFFICE 6:00 pm Shabbat Rishon at the Shab- Leviticus 1:1 - 5:26 508-366-7191 FAX: 855-780-2665 bat Table — Gezah Shabbat 8:00 am Torah and T’filah http://www.cbnaishalom.org Family Dinner 11:30 am 40th Anniversary Shabbat 7:00 pm Shabbat Family Visual Tefilah Brunch and Torah Study HOURS: Mon–Fri 8:30 am – 4pm and during religious school Service Friday, March 22 Saturday, March 2 7:30 pm Simply Shabbat Rabbi: Rachel Gurevitz Vayakhel. Exodus 35:1 - 38:20 Saturday, March 23 Ext. 201 [email protected] 8:00 am Torah and T’filah Leviticus 6:1 - 8:36 10:15 am Shabbat Morning Service – 8:00 am Torah and T’filah Rabbi–Educator: Joe Eiduson Sean Arthur Miniman will be 10:15 am Shabbat Morning Service – Ext. 204 [email protected] called to the Torah as a Bar Abby Mahr will be called to Mitzvah the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah Executive Director: Steve Winer Friday, March 8 Ext. 202 [email protected] Friday, March 29 7:30 pm Simply Shabbat 7:30 pm Ritual Lab Shabbat Saturday, March 9 Youth Educator: Debbi Morin Ext. 209 [email protected] Pekudei. Exodus 38:21 - 40:38 Saturday, March 30 8:00 am Torah and T’filah Shmini...... Leviticus 9:1 - 11:47 8:00 am Torah and T’filah Cantorial Soloist: Sharon Brown Goldstein 10:15 am Shabbat Morning Service – Avery Susan Rosenfield will 10:15 am Shabbat Morning Service – Ext. 203 [email protected] be called to the Torah as a Bat Simon Isaiah Bleier will be Mitzvah called to the Torah as a Bar Cantorial Soloist: Lisa Marcus Jones Mitzvah Ext. 312 [email protected] Friday, March 15 th 7:30 pm 40 Anniversary Weekend Family Educator Cheryl Pouliot Shabbat Service and Celebra- Ext. 209 [email protected] tory Oneg Early Childhood Coord. Alissa Schimmel Ext. 206 [email protected]

Torah and T’filah • Saturdays, 8 – 9:30 am, Library Secretary: Lori Zembruski Chronicles! The last book of the Hebrew Bible (although not quite the last book we’ll Ext. 200 [email protected] be studying before completing our review of the Tenach). History is in the eye of the beholder. Jewish history as seen by a member of the priestly elite during early Second Secretary: Stacey Wein Temple times gives us a window into how the Jewish people of that time understood their Ext. 205 [email protected] heritage and their origins. What remains the same today, and what has changed in our understanding of our past? Join us any Saturday morning for Torah study to find out. Bookkeepeer Marsha Beals Ext. 208 [email protected]

Our Board and Committee Chairs

President: Rob Blumberg Directors: Committee Chairs: [email protected] Robin Baer Finance: Larry Samberg Simon Davis Information Technology: Steven Goldstein VP Finance & Admin: Michael Manning Judy Deane Membership: Karen Rothman [email protected] Alan Ehrlich Ritual: Adam Winter VP Education: Steven Goldstein Jordan Eisenstock Social Action: Amy Rosenberg [email protected] Laura King CBS Cares: OPEN VP Cong. Affairs: Cheryl Kasof Phil Leavitt [email protected] Allen Rosenfeld Affiliate Groups: VP Membership: Karen Rothman Andrew Shaw Sisterhood: Nancy Bosco [email protected] Wendy Zingher Brotherhood: Jim Wilner Treasurer: Carole Grayson WAFTY: Ari Drotch [email protected] Secretary: Heidi Swanick [email protected] Immediate Past President: Allison Orenstein [email protected] March 2019 Page 3 From the Rabbi – Beyond 40 years — a glimpse into the future

ver these past few months, communities, too. We are not the the trajectory of I’ve shared insights gleaned custodians of a ritual museum; while our lives to open from investigating forty years our Judaism is deeply grounded in up new vistas for of our archives, and I’ve sought to our heritage, it cannot and will not us. A recent Pew Oarticulate some of what we stand for survive if we are simply re-enact- research study as a congregation today, building on ing ancient rites. Rather, Judaism found a signifi- our past. This month, as we arrive remains relevant and vibrant when cantly higher at the pinnacle weekend of our year we are engaged in the ongoing expression of of celebrations, I’d like to take a process of redefining its value and happiness in life among people who glimpse into the future. meaning in our lives. engaged in religious community When some in the Jewish con- Every time we celebrate a bar or on a regular basis, especially if that gregational world look to the bat mitzvah, I look to our students engagement included deeper social future, their response is one that is to begin to articulate that meaning connections and opportunities to do infused with anxiety, fretting over for them in their own words. Over volunteer work to make a difference what exists today that may not exist this past month, I’ve been invited in the wider community. Our work tomorrow. For sure, we have seen a in to Mill Pond School three times, is to create meaningful and acces- great deal of shifting in the ways that sible ritual gathering spaces, social many people seek out the spiritual Judaism remains action opportunities, and engaging life and express their Jewish cultural relevant and social and cultural activities that identities, but I look out at the same vibrant when we continue to bring us together as landscape and feel energized by the are engaged in the Jewish community. possibilities. Many of us who are ongoing process So much of the work we have part of Jewish community life know of redefining its done together over these past years that our expression of Judaism is not value and meaning has been about evolving what we the same as our parents’. And that in our lives. do, how we do it, and the choices is nothing new. In fact, one of our and options we make available, to founding members and early Pres- provide multiple entry points for idents, Marshall Gould, expressed speaking to two hundred 5th grade all who seek this kind of spiritual that desire to create a different kind students, to help them think about community life. But just as culture is of community culture from the con- the connections between spirituality ever-evolving, so we are never done gregations of his parents’ generation and wellness. Utilizing the wisdom in our work to evolve and do more when our teens interviewed him of positive psychology and character to remain a vibrant hub of Jewish earlier in the year. Every generation trait development, we can find so community life. We have 40 years redefines and remakes Jewish com- much in the spiritual tool box of our of experience as Congregation B’nai munity in ways that are reflective of own tradition that contributes to Shalom and almost three millennia their values and the broader culture overall wellness, including mental of evolution as the Jewish people to that we are a part of. health, resilience, and measures build upon. Our future may look dif- It is not surprising that in an age of happiness. Our rituals lift up ferent from our past, but, together, of disruptive innovation, curated opportunities to express gratitude, we will continue to create a Jewish experiences, and a search for mean- to notice and bless the “wow” community of purpose. ing, the same forces that are creating moments in our lives, and to rec- shifts in many aspects of our day- ognize the messenger angels who, Rabbi Rachel Gurevitz to-day life would have an impact on through a conversation or a word [email protected] how we think about our spiritual of encouragement, help to redirect Page 4 Congregation B’nai Shalom From Our President – Help Ensure the Future of Our Oneg Shabbat

ear Congregation B’nai and nosh. In the current system, warm touches Shalom, about once every one and half to and culture of The purpose of my two years a member is sent a letter the Oneg is Monthly Connections article this from the office explaining hosting. something that I Dmonth is to look for volunteers to The member is given a date by the am reluctant to help ensure the future of a great office to be a host family, and told start outsourc- tradition at Congregation B’nai a Sisterhood Captain will make ing to a third Shalom. I am certain everyone has contact a week to ten days before to party caterer. It attended Shabbat Services on Friday confirm and coordinate food. The is not a question of money — it is night. After our Shabbat services, we Sisterhood Captain then shops for about preserving the “Friday night host an Oneg in the Social Hall. The any additional foods that will be with friends” feel of our Onegs. Oneg always consists of a variety of needed for that night (reimbursed I hope that we can find new vol- foods — fruits, vegetables, glu- by Sisterhood) and is then present unteers. Please reach out to me at ten-free options, cake, sweets, etc. at the Oneg and helps the host with [email protected] or our Our families stay and socialize, the set-up and clean-up. An Oneg takes Executive Director, Steve Winer at clergy usually stays and chats with place about fifty times a year! [email protected] if members and guests, and children you would like to volunteer. load up on sugar and turn the bimah I would like to thank the cur- in the Social Hall into some form of The Friday Oneg is rent team of Captains who make gymnastics equipment. The Friday part of the fabric of sure that every Oneg is a success, Oneg is part of the fabric of our our congregation, and for being great volunteers, and for congregation, and the energy in the the energy in the room quietly leading by example for all room during our Oneg is not easily during our Oneg is not of these years. A special thank you replaceable. easily replaceable. to Cheryl Kasof who serves on our The Friday Oneg has not changed Board of Directors and so thought- that much from when we were fully brought this to my attention, a very small congregation. Back The team of Sisterhood Captains Rabbi Gurevitz’s attention, and then all members of the congrega- coordinating the Oneg hosts is now shared her concern with the Board tion took turns hosting the Oneg. dwindling in numbers. We would of Directors in January. Most congregants knew each other like to keep the Onegs as we go for- Last week someone asked me, from attending services or as their ward. To do that we will need new “What is the hardest part of being children were in religious school volunteers or “Captains.” If we can President of the Congregation?” together. They brought food, served get to twenty to twenty-five volun- I did not have to think at all. My it, and cleaned up. This included teers then that is just two to three response was “finding volunteers.” wiping down the tables, vacuuming Onegs a year for each Captain. All No matter how big, financially the carpets, and bringing the trash Captains are taught what the respon- strong, and mature Congregation to the dumpster. As the once small sibilities are and co-captaining with B’nai Shalom becomes, our future group of families became a larger a friend is encouraged. We also real- will always rely on volunteers. I congregation with a more diverse ize that there are some new efficien- hope that we can bring in a new demographic, it became harder to cies that we can bring to the system generation of volunteers to keep our get volunteers to host. Sisterhood with partners like Amazon, Roche, wonderful Oneg tradition alive for recognized the positive impact that and Stop & Shop now delivering. generations to come. the Friday night Oneg has on the We also have a custodial service that congregation and developed a plan comes in to vacuum, empty trash, L’shalom, Rob Blumberg to coordinate the hosts and create a and clean up, so that is no longer [email protected] warm, inviting, and delicious place the responsibility of the volunteers. for us to celebrate, socialize, bond, However, the set-up, coordination, March 2019 Page 5 From Our Executive Director – (Many, Many) Lessons Learned

s I wrote last month, I had Brady and Belichick), and then me, although the pleasure of attending the Monday morning, classes began. exhausted, biennial Institute run by the There were nine two-hour classes energized and National Association for Temple and nine two-hour exams in four inspired to bring AAdministration. I had a general days. I realize in the forty or so years this information idea of what I was getting myself since my college days that I had back to Con- into — but once I got there, I quickly forgotten how to study. Fortunately, gregation B’nai found out that my expectations fell most of my colleagues were in the Shalom. far short of reality. same boat, and our study groups The good news is that I did find, Let me also say, that I flew to LA were very helpful. as I have previously, that we are on Super Bowl Sunday, and did “rep- So, what did we study, and what doing far more right than many of resent” — wearing my Patriots shirt did I learn? The courses included my colleagues’ congregations. Of as I walked through LAX. I got a few Membership, Communications, course, some “tweaks” are always looks but it was worth it. Personnel, Budget & Finance, Syn- important as we move forward, but Twenty Executive Directors and agogue Management, and Gover- they’re minor tweaks. So, as presi- Temple Administrators, as well as nance. There were also classes on dents have said for years…The state our faculty, arrived at the Brandeis Jewish Holidays, Ceremonies, and of our Congregation is strong. Campus of American Jewish Univer- Practices, as well as Liturgy and the Steve Winer sity in time to watch the game (and I History of Reform Judaism. But, Executive Director got a bit of a lesson as to how much by far, the six management courses [email protected] the rest of the country really dislikes were the most practical and left

Celebratory Shabbat on March 15 – 16 40th Anniversary Shabbat Friday night, March 15, 7:30 pm • Welcoming back our Founding Rabbi, Debra Hachen. • With special guest Rabbi Daniel Freelander, President of the World Union for Progressive Judaism • Followed by a Celebratory Oneg Shabbat Brunch and Torah Study, in honor of Rabbi Debra Hachen, led by Rabbi Elyse Frishman Saturday, March 16, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm Rabbi Frishman is Rabbi Emerita of Barnet Temple, Franklin Lakes, NJ and Editor of our movement’s prayer book, Mishkan T’filah. • Please bring a meat-free contribution to enhance our brunch. Bagels, smoked salmon, and quiche will be provided.

BOTH EVENTS ARE FREE OF CHARGE, BUT RSVP BY MARCH 10 TO ENABLE US TO PLAN. www.cbnaishalom.org/event/40th-anniversary-weekend-shabbat-service-and-celebratory-oneg.html www.cbnaishalom.org/event/40th-anniversary-weekend-shabbat-brunch-and-torah-study.html Page 6 Congregation B’nai Shalom

From the Desk of Rabbi Eiduson – Senior Recognition Shabbat…Purim

ur annual Senior Recognition Shab- Purim Reminder bat Service will be on Friday, May 10, 2018 Religious School will meet on at 7:30 pm. Every senior who is present will Sunday, March 24 from 9:30 am receive a graduation certificate and a special gift from to 11:30 am for all students in Othe temple. Please contact Lori in the school office at grades K – 5. The annual WAFTY [email protected] or 508-366- 7191 and let Purim Carnival will follow her know that your graduate and your family can join Religious School, beginning at us for the service. Seniors must RSVP so that we may 11:30 am. Parking will be limited prepare the gifts and the certificates for the graduates. at pick-up, so those staying for the It is customary for our students currently in eleventh carnival are asked to park at Rabbi Joe Eiduson grade to usher for the service and for the parents of our the Hastings School. [email protected] students in eleventh grade to provide desserts for the Oneg Shabbat following the service. Parents of students currently in eleventh grade — please contact Lori in the school office [email protected] and indicate your ability to usher and what you would like to bring for the Oneg Shabbat following the service.

Religious School – What’s Happening

Shabbat Rishon Winter Format — At The Shabbat Table For the months of February, March, and April only, The timing of these Shabbat experiences will be as our Shabbat Rishon (the first Friday of the month) Fam- follows: ily service will look a little different.Everyone in the 6:00 pm Kabbalat Shabbat — Welcoming Shabbat with community is welcome for all parts of the evening. songs and blessings. These services will take place in the Social Hall, as 6:20 pm Shabbat Dinner —RSVP at https://www. we create a home-style Kabbalat Shabbat experience cbnaishalom.org/event/shabbat-family-dinner.html.* leading into dinner, followed by a slightly abbreviated (Students under 18 must be accompanied by a parent Ma’ariv (Evening) service. Each Shabbat, one of our for dinner) Eitz Chayim Religious School grades will help lead the 7:00 pm Candle-lighting, Kiddush, and Evening prayers they have learned and contribute to the special service continues with Visual Tefilah (a service themes of the service. projected on screen) in the Social Hall. Those who prefer to have dinner at home are invited to join us at this time. 7:45 pm Dessert Oneg Shabbat for all.

* No one is ever turned away from a community dinner for financial reasons. If you need financial assistance to attend, or would like to arrange for an alternate payment method, please contact Executive Director Steve Winer.

What’s Happening continued on page 7 March 2019 Page 7

Religious School – What’s Happening (continued from page 6)

K–5 Facebook Group Anaf Fam Ed on March 31 Post High School Task Force There is now a Facebook group There will be a Anaf (Grades 4 Do you have kids between the ages for parents of our K–5 Eitz Chayim & 5) Family Program on Sunday, of 18 and 25? Are you interested students. All parents of K–5 stu- March 31, 8:30 –11:30 am. in keeping our post high school dents are invited to join this Face- youth connected to B’nai Shalom book group via request by going Tzedakah and the Jewish community? If you to https://www.facebook.com/ All Tzedakah (monetary) donations are interested in helping create a groups/225407168406589/. The during March through May will post high school task force at B’nai group is designed to help our Reli- be donated to the ADL and Jewish Shalom, please email Debbi Morin gious School parents get to know Family and Children’s Services with at [email protected]. each other, share information, create thanks for the programming they social gatherings, and more. provide to our students throughout the year. Gezah Fam Ed on March 17 There will be a Gezah (Grades 2 Bulletin Board & 3) Family Program on Sunday, Check out our school bulletin board March 17, 8:30 –11:30 am. outside of the library for school news and other updates from our teachers.

Sunday Religious School Starting Time

Religious School on Sundays begins at 8:30 am. Please help your child be on time for school.

Eitz Chayim Special Dates Shoresh (K/1) Parent & Student B’nai Mitzvah Experience Shoresh Shabbat Rishon Dinner, April 4, 2019 6:00 pm Saturday, March 16, 2019, 9:00 – 11:30 am, Social Hall

Gezah (2/3) ADL Parent & Student Seminar Family Education, Sunday, March 17, 2019 Sunday, April 7, 2019, 8:30 – 11:00 am Gezah Shabbat Rishon Dinner, March 1, 2019 6:00 pm Family Project Showcase Anaf (4/5) Wednesday, May 15, 2019, 6:00 – 7:30 pm Family Education, Sunday, March 31, 2019

Volunteer Opportunities Purim Carnival Do you do volunteer work in the community? Do Mark Your Calendar! you work with an organization that is looking for (Sponsored by WAFTY) student volunteers? Are there ways our pre and Sunday, March 24 post B’nai Mitzvah kids could help out? Email Rabbi Joe Eiduson ([email protected]) if 11:30 am – 1:00 pm you have volunteer opportunities available. CBS Social Hall Costume Parade! Games! Lunch Available! Page 8 Congregation B’nai Shalom

Purim! March 20 at 6:45 pm

From Our Youth Educator – Jewish Youth Experiences

here are many wonderful provide social opportunities for bines serious learning opportunities available for your children so they can form their with serious fun. your children to participate in own special communities within our There are also Jewish youth experiences. congregation. NFTY programs on TCongregation B’nai Shalom WAFTY 678 and Senior WAFTY the national level. offers Youth Groups for grades are part of NFTY, which is the youth NFTY Convention 2 through 12: 2/3 WAFTY for grades division of the URJ. At NFTY over- is where thousands 2 and 3; WAFTY Lite for grades night events, students meet Jewish of teens gather for four days to 4 and 5; WAFTY 678 for grades 6 teens from across the Northeast explore and live Reform Judaism. through 8; and Senior WAFTY for when they gather for Shabbat wor- Mitzvah Corps is a summer program high school students. These groups ship and programming that com- where teens do social action work in another community either in the States or abroad. Heller High is a fully-accredited semester in Israel for high school students. And there are several different summer trips for exploring Israel. With so many options to choose from, you are sure to find the right Jewish experiences for your children.

L’shalom Debbi Morin [email protected] Confirmation Class trip to Washington D.C. for the L’Taken Social Justice Seminar of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism March 2019 Page 9 Member Activities

Start Date Rescheduled! An Encounter with Jewish Latin American Poetry Mondays, 7 – 8 pm, Community Room 4 Week course, March 4 – March 25 The Jewish population of Latin America is esti- mated at 400,000 souls. The largest communities are in Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico; there are Jewish communities in every Latin American country and in Puerto Rico. The majority are Ashkenazi in background, but there are significant numbers of Sephardic Jews and Misraji Jews from the Middle East. Jewish Latin Ameri- can poetry is filled with joy and mourning, realism and fantasy, emotion and reflection — intensely Jewish in content and perspective. Despite the fact that the poets have lived through populist governments, dictatorships, This course will be led by Professor Emeritus Stephen anti-Semitism, endemic economic and political crises, A. Sadow, Northeastern University, with input by the poets have continued to produce extraordinary Professor Marsha Nourse. Brandeis University poetry that has its own flavor and tone. This course will treat how these Jewish Latin American poets have Register online at https://www.cbnaishalom.org/ explored: Jewish Identity, The Bible, The Holocaust, and event/Jewish-latin-american-poetry. Mysticism.

RSVP at https://www.cbnaishalom.org/event/ Iron-Chef-Passover-and-wine-2019. Page 10 Congregation B’nai Shalom Member Activities

Sisterhood Action BS Sisterhood is having to all women and there is no charge. Bosco know if you plan to join us. a wonderful year. You are For our potluck dinner, please bring We do cancel for inclement weather. invited to join us this Spring a non-dairy main dish, side dish, for more great programming. All salad, or dessert, if you are able. A big thank you to Judy Palken Cwomen of Congregation B’nai We will need volunteers for set-up and Ruth Lubitz for coordinating Shalom and friends of CBS are at 5:15 pm and clean-up at the end Word Game Night in January and welcome. of the evening. RSVP by March 28 February. We hope to continue at https://www.cbnaishalom.org/ Word Game Night this Spring. Stay Annual Women’s Seder event/annual-womens-seder.html. tuned. Thursday, April 4 • 6:00-9:00pm Contact Nancy Bosco at This is always a meaningful Drop-in Mah Jongg [email protected] with any evening of music and reflection led Thank you to Rickey Lopatin for comments, questions or suggestions by Rabbi Gurevitz and coordinated leading Mah Jongg learn/re-learn. about these events. I look forward to by Sisterhood. Our theme this year We have several new players. Mah hearing from you. is Gratitude. We encourage you to Jongg continues every Tuesday from invite your mothers, sisters, daugh- 11:15 – 1:15 at CBS. Do you enjoy Nancy (Leveillee) Bosco ters (fifth grade and older), and playing Mah Jongg or would you like Sisterhood President friends to share this inspiring expe- to learn? Join us for Drop-in Mah [email protected] rience with you. This event is open Jongg every Tuesday. Let Nancy

B’nai Shalom Book Group on April 8 n Monday April 8, please join us to discuss fire, water, air, and earth. Cooked: A Natural History of Transformation by Michael Pollan is a well-known author and professor Michael Pollan. In this entertaining nonfiction on the subjects of food history, healthy eating, and the book, Pollan journeys through his kitchen’s uncharted environment. In 2010, Time Magazine named him as one Oterritory. He discovers that the cook occupies a special of the one hundred most influential people in the world; place in the world, somewhere between nature and in 2012, The Jerusalem Post named him as one of the fifty culture. He explains how cooking involves us in a web of most influential Jews in the world. Congregant Judy social and ecological relationships: with plants and ani- Palken, MNS, RD, LDN (Registered Dietitian) will lead mals, the soil, farmers, our culture, and the people our the discussion. cooking nourishes and delights. Cooking, above all, con- The meeting will be held at B’nai Shalom at 7 nects us and distinguishes us as humans (excerpted from pm. All B’nai Shalom members are welcome. For www.goodreads.com). As an added treat, we’ll offer light more information, please contact Barbara Barry at refreshments representing the four major cooking meth- [email protected]. ods that homo sapiens has used for thousands of years:

My Toddler and Me! • Tuesdays, 9:30 – 11:00 am Make new friends and have fun with your little one. Are you looking for a fun, lively class that challenges tod- dlers as they continue to figure out how the world works? Activities will focus on movement, multi-step activities, using problem-solving skills, and providing rich sensory experiences. Dance and gymnastics are also included. Join us for a weekly playgroup every Tuesday for children four and under and their grown-ups. March 2019 Page 11 Member Activities

Brotherhood News ur next CBS Brotherhood Breakfast is on Coming up on March 31, Brotherhood has tentative Sunday, March 3 from 9:00 – 11:30 am. For this plans to carpool to Newport, RI for the day to visit breakfast, we’re going to try something a little dif- and tour the famous Touro Synagogue, America’s ferent. Instead of taking place at the temple, this break- oldest synagogue (https://www.tourosynagogue.org/). Ofast will be at the home of our member Glenn Randall. While in Newport, we’ll also have lunch and visit the Instead of just the standard bagels and lox spread, we’re Audrain Auto Museum and its impressive collection of going to make this one a pot luck — everyone is asked over two hundred and thirty cars, from an 1899 Crouch to bring one dish or item. Finally, instead of a formal steam powered car to the exclusive 2016 Porsche 911R. speaker or program, we’re going to use this occasion to Full trip details are being finalized. Please contactjim. try to get to know each other a little better and hopefully [email protected] to RSVP and reserve your spot. have a good group discussion; don’t worry, we’ll be pre- It’s never too late to become involved with CBS pared with some interesting discussion topics to get the Brotherhood and make connections with other men in juices flowing. Glenn’s address is 30 Nourse Street (Rte. the community. Brotherhood is an active group of men 30), Westborough, about two miles west of the rotary of all ages — many are Jewish but non-Jewish partners/ and two miles east of Tufts Veterinary School. The drive- spouses are always welcome too. We get together for way is long, and cars can park on the right side, or on social events, educational events, and community ser- the lawn if the ground is not soft. Parking is also avail- vice events; usually, food is involved. Go to able across the street from the driveway on Old Nourse https://www.cbnaishalom.org/join-brotherhood.html Street, but please don’t park near the corner of Old today. Nourse and Nourse due to turning cars. If you have any questions, please reach out to [email protected]. Brotherhood Officers (2018-2019): RSVP and choose a dish or item to bring from the Jim Wilner, President suggested list at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ [email protected], 508-460-1936 RBL7MNR. Please check the survey results at https:// Adam Winter, Treasurer www.surveymonkey.com/results/SM-BJY97XWWV, [email protected], 508-393-3828 to see what items have already been selected. There is Activities Co-Chairs: no cost for this breakfast if you’re able to bring a dish or Glenn Randall, Mike Backer, Sam Skraly item. We hope you can join us. Jim Wilner

Are you Newish (to CBS)? Member Social Groups Are you free Saturday, April 6 at 6 pm? Social group members organize their own activi- My name is Kim Kleine. I joined CBS two years ago ties at times that work for them, and most activities are and would like to get to know more temple members. also advertised on the temple’s weekly email. Go to: I am organizing a pot-luck dinner at CBS for all mem- https://www.cbnaishalom.org/lets-have-fun.html/, bers of CBS who have joined or click on Member Resources under the Belong tab on within the last five years. our website. Fill out the online form. You’ll If you are interested in helping only get email from the groups you select. with organizing or just want to You will get a confirming email with the come, email me at emails for those groups. [email protected]. I’m look- Want to start a new social ing forward to hearing from you. group? Contact Karen Rothman at [email protected]. Page 12 Congregation B’nai Shalom Member Activities

Download the CBS App Today

The new Congregation B’nai Shalom App for Android and iOS is now available. You’ll be able to review your account information, check our calendar, access the directory, and sign up and pay for events right from the app. In addition, we’ll be able to send push notifications to you in case we have to cancel or change events. You can see a demo of the app (by Steve Winer) on YouTube at http://bit.ly/CBSAppYoutube. Remember, you must be logged in to take full advantage of the app’s capabilities, and, please, also remember to log in any time you visit our website. You can get the app by searching for Congregation Bnai Shalom (note: no apostrophe) on Google Play or the App Store.

Todah rabbah to our oneg hosts, oneg captains, and Need to Catch Up on the ushers since the last issue: Hosts: Monthly Connections? The D. Johnson Family, The Johnston Family, Judy and The current issue and previous issues of the Barnett Kalman, Susan and Jeffrey Hojlo, The Karp Monthly Connections can be accessed by logging in Family, Roberta Decker-Kigner and Stuart Kigner, Anita to our website at www.cbnaishalom.org and click- and Stan King, The M. Johnson Family, Peggy Wu and ing on Belong-> CBS Bulletin Library. David Kanter, The Janecek Family, The T. Goldberg Family, Karen and Edward Ingerman, Robin Silverman and Harry Keates, Iris and Eliyahu Kraus, Michelle and Steven Koss. Captains: Leah Nassar, Bobbi and Joel Feinblatt, Cheryl Kasof, Ruth Lubitz, Judy Palken. Please send announcements and news to Ushers: Eileen Samberg at [email protected] Phil Leavitt, Carole Grayson, Mike Manning, Allen Rosenfeld, Cheryl Kasof.

Follow Rabbi Gurevitz’s blog “Raise it up” at http://shmakoleinu-hearourvoices.blogspot.com/ Visit our Facebook page (you don’t need an account) at www.facebook.com/cbnaishalom K–5 Eitz Chayim Facebook Group (you must join) at https://www.facebook.com/groups/225407168406589/ CBS Early Childhood Facebook Group (you must join) at https://www.facebook.com/groups/392004534295513/ CBS Interfaith Family Group (you must join): https://www.facebook.com/groups/192799714446106/ Watch our Shabbat and High Holy Days worship live stream at https://www.cbnaishalom.org/livestream.html March 2019 Page 13 Our B’nai Mitzvah

Sean Arthur Miniman, son of Heather and Stuart Abby Mahr will be called to the Torah as a Bat Miniman, will become a Bar Mitzvah on March 2, 2019. Mitzvah on March 23, 2019. She lives in Westborough As a student at Hopkinton Middle School, Sean plays with her parents, Daniel and Melissa Mahr, and brother, the bass clarinet in the 7th grade band, the jazz band, and Jacob (15). Abby is a 7th grade student at Gibbons Mid- the symphonic orchestra. In April, he hopes to represent dle School and enjoys dancing, skiing, singing, and art. his music program at the 2019 Central District Mas- Abby is also a year-long, weekly volunteer coach with sachusetts Music Educators Association Junior High Darby’s Dancers, a non-profit organization dedicated to Concert Festival. Sean also wrestles for HMS, pursues providing dance classes to children with special needs. his interest in archery at a club in Hudson, and will play lacrosse (for his seventh year) in the town league in the Simon Isaiah Bleier will become a Bar Mitzvah on spring. In his free time, Sean enjoys biking, hiking, and March 30, 2019. Simon resides in Westborough with (of course) playing video games with his friends online. his parents, Thomas Bleier and Victoria Frenkel, and His big sister, Rachel (15), became a Bat Mitzvah on the his brother, Theo (15). Simon is in th7 grade at Gibbons same winter weekend two years ago. Middle School. In school, Simon has begun to take Spanish and is really enjoying learning another language Avery Susan Rosenfield, daughter of Todd and from his family’s heritage. When Simon is not in school Amy Rosenfield, will become a Bat Mitzvah on March 9, he enjoys playing soccer, baseball, and basketball. This 2019. Avery has an older brother, Sammy (16), and lives fall, Simon was one of only three 7th grade boys to make in North Grafton. She attends Grafton Middle School the middle school basketball team. If Simon is not as a 7th grade student with high honors. Avery’s hobbies playing a sport, he can often be found hanging out with include soccer, basketball, reading, and ocean conserva- friends, playing Fortnite and NBA 2K on Xbox, and tion. striving to become the ping pong playing master of his household.

B’nai Shalom Oneg Sponsors Celebrate s’machot (happy events) and remembrances with your temple family by sponsoring an oneg. Please contact Ruth Lubitz at [email protected].

March 1 Heather and Stuart Miniman in honor of Sean being called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah

March 9 The Rosenfield family in honor of Avery being called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah

March 22 The Mahr Family in honor of Abigail being called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah

March 29 Tori and Tom Bleier in honor of Simon being called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah Page 14 Congregation B’nai Shalom Our Sponsors

Best Choice Robbi Rubenstein ProudAward member Honored and Realtor sponsor since 1994! Award Honored Realtor SRES, CBR, Marketing & Negotiation Specialist Hall of Fame, Buyers & Sellers Representation

Mazel Tov Highfields Golf & Country Club would like to extend our sincere appreciation to our past families who have given us the honor of hosting their event at our Coun- try Club. We look forward to meeting our new families from the congregation Joan H. Bress, LICSW, CEP and hope you, too, will share the same amazing experience at Highfields. Please College School & College contact AnnMarie in our Sales Department Resource at (508)839-1945 ext. 222 to book your Associates Admissions Consultant upcoming event. 42 Magill Dr., Grafton, MA 01519 • www.HighfieldsGolfcc.com 12 Southwood Road / Worcester, MA 01609 Phone / Fax: (508) 757-8920 E-mail: [email protected] www.CollegeResourceAssociates.com

PARK STREET DENTAL BAR MITZVAH Jonathan Hoffman, DMD HEADQUARTERS Cosmetic, Implant and Family Dentistry

Tel (508) 366-5028 www.Westborodental.com

210 Turnpike Road, Westborough, MA

Marsha Beals, Health Coach Certifications in Holistic Health, Healing, Nutrition, & Autoimmune Happy 2019! It’s the season for new Boys Clothing beginnings! If your #1 health goal for 2019 is to get in control of your eating, without going on a diet, I want to support you For All Occasions! on your journey. Contact me & we’ll start the year off happy & healthy! Contact me for a FREE consulation. 978-376-2564 SIMON & SONS [email protected] 679 Highland Avenue • Needham, MA • 781-559-3212 www.naturalbeautyfromwithin.com March 2019 Page 15 Our Sponsors

Trusts and Estates Law Marvin S. Silver, Esquire Happy 2019 Trusts & Estates “Lawyer of the Year” 40th! Best Lawyers in America, Worcester County, MA (also received in 2015 and 2017)

Christopher ◆ Hays Wojcik & Mavricos

45 Lyman Street, Suite 15 Westborough, MA 01581 508-986-9430 www.chwmlaw.com • [email protected]

ADVANCED DENTAL GROUP M. Moheban, D.M.D. D. Moheban, D.M.D. Mark Henry Sebell All phases of dentistry under one roof College Admission Specialist 144 E. Main St. • Westborough, MA 01581 Over 25 years of helping high school juniors (508) 366-5444 & seniors to successfully navigate through the college admission process, and gain admission to their stretch schools Free exam and x-ray! [email protected] (978) 808-1851

Congregation B’nai Shalom references available upon request



JF&CS is proud to serve  Central MA, including Westborough,  Shrewsbury, Northborough, Marlborough, Worcester, and Holden.

To learn more, visit jfcscentralma.org or call 508-755-3101. SALMON'S CONTINUUM OF CARE ALSO INCLUDES

OF CENTRAL MASSACHUSETTS WHITNEY PLACE Assisted Living Residences BEAUMONT Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Waltham Headquarters | Brighton | Canton | Central MA | North Shore ALL LOCATED ON THE SAME CAMPUS Page 16 Congregation B’nai Shalom Our Sponsors

BREZNIAK RODMAN FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Independent • Family Owned

In the Tradition of Our Great-Great Grandfather Jacob H. Levine (1858-1944)

www.brezniakrodman.com 617-969-0800 800-554-2199

Richard Perlman Serving the Jewish communities of Worcester and Worcester County Is now affiliated with Miles Funeral Directors of Holden 508.829.4434 800.983.4434

Taharah (religious preparation) is performed on-site by the Worcester Chevra Kadisha

Richard S. Mansfield, Funeral Director www.milesfuneralhome.com

*Lic. – Type 6 March 2019 Page 17

Adar I Adar II / 5779 אדר א / אדר ב March 2019 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 NFTY-NE NE/NAR 678 NFTY-NE NE/NAR 678 Overnight Overnight 600p Gezah Shabbat Family 800a Torah & Tefilah Dinner 1015a Shabbat Morning 700p Shabbat Rishon Family Service With B'nai Mitzvah Service (Miniman) 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 830a Garinim (Pre School) 700p Jewish Latin Hebrew School Hebrew School Hebrew School 730p Simply Shabbat 800a Torah & Tefilah 830a Religious School American Poetry 930a My Toddler and Me! 345p Gesher Classes 1015a Shabbat Morning 900a Brotherhood 1115a Drop-In Mah Jongg Service With B'nai Mitzvah 345p Gesher Classes Breakfast (Rosenfield) 600p Chai School 600p Post Confirmation 400p WAFTY Lite Event 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 830a Religious School 700p Jewish Latin Hebrew School Hebrew School Hebrew School 730p 40th Anniversary 830a Gesher Fam Ed 1130a WAFTY 67 Event American Poetry 930a My Toddler and Me! 345p Gesher Classes Weekend Shabbat Service Shabbat Program 1115a Drop-In Mah Jongg 730p Social Action Cmte and Celebratory Oneg 1130a 40th Ann. Shabbat 345p Gesher Classes Brunch and Torah Study 600p Chai School 700p Fabulous at Forty! 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 830a Garinim (Pre School) 700p Jewish Latin Hebrew School Erev Purim Hebrew School 730p Simply Shabbat Parshat Tzav 830a Religious School American Poetry 930a My Toddler and Me! Hebrew School Purim 800a Torah & Tefilah 845a Gezah (2/3) Fam Ed 1115a Drop-In Mah Jongg 345p Gesher Classes 1015a Shabbat Morning 345p Gesher Classes 600p Purim Spiel & Service With B'nai Mitzvah 600p Chai School (Mahr) 600p Post Confirmation Megillah Reading 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 930a Religious School 700p Jewish Latin Hebrew School Hebrew School Hebrew School NFTY -NE Spring NFTY -NE Spring Conclvet 1130a Purim Carnival American Poetry 930a My Toddler and Me! 345p Gesher Classes 700p Iron Chef Passover & Conclavette 800a Torah & Tefilah 1015a Shabbat Morning 1115a Drop-In Mah Jongg 700p Board of Directors Wine Tasting Beth Am 730p Ritual Lab Shabbat Service With B'nai Mitzvah 345p Gesher Classes Mtg (Bleier) 600p Chai School 400p 2/3 WAFTY Event 31 NFTY -NE Spring Conclavette 830a Religious School 845a Anaf (4/5) Fam Ed

March Birthdays

1 Michael Bernzweig 11 Brenda Coutinho 19 Melissa Mahr 27 Wendy Diamond 3 David Abrams 11 Audrey Feldman 19 Stephanie Blumenthal 27 Resa Sherr 3 Branch Yules 13 Lisa Eiduson 20 Jason Mard 27 Howard Jacobson 3 Joseph Eiduson 13 Lisa Chace 20 Andrew Kessler 27 Lynne Auslander 4 Shari Markowitz 13 William Gaines 21 Matthew Terrill 27 Emily Levine 5 Simon Davis 14 Leslie Kingsley 22 Jeff Hojlo 28 Mark Sebell 5 Bruce Simon 14 Emily Sandahl 22 Joseph Mayotte 28 Harvey Douglas 5 Robbi Rubenstein 15 Bernice Miller 23 Alan Raider 28 James Casady 6 William Martin 15 Samantha Gerlovin 23 Cheryl Kasof 28 David Ammerman 7 David Damiano 15 Barbara Gorfinkle 23 Emily Rose 29 Elissa Lanzetta 7 Patricia Rosenthal 16 Jared Smith 24 Laura Leacu 29 William Haley 8 Allison Orenstein 16 Marc Rubin 24 Laurie Rains 29 Lynne Buchhalter 8 Stephanie Terrill 16 James Mulgrew 24 Suzanne Martin 29 Gary Goldberg 9 Roslyn Rothman 17 Sandra Tillman 24 Susan Janfaza 29 Judy Kalman 9 David Orenstein 17 Marsha Ovrut 25 Jay Stone 30 Michael Bloch 9 Andrew Powell 17 Andrew Bishop 25 Jonathan Newton 30 Sallee Lipshutz 10 Joy Sachs 17 Suri Krieger 25 Adam Sachs 31 Peter Chen 10 Jesse Goyette 17 Amy Rosenberg 26 Adam Blumenau 31 Mason Haber 10 Paula Silverman 17 Greg Manousos 26 Eva Friedner 11 Adam Winter 17 Rachel Bernzweig 26 Laura Cressotti Page 18 Congregation B’nai Shalom Donations Abby Brown Education Fund Social Action Fund Abby Brown Education William Lopatin in memory of Nathan Lopatin Stacey and Elliott Berger and Family in loving memory of our Used for special school projects and Paul and Amy Drotch father/papa, Joseph Solomon Kent materials such as films and records, speakers and field trips. General Fund Yad b’Yad Fund Eileen and Larry Samberg in memory of Terry Terhune Patricia Rosenthal in memory of Peter Sadowski Roslyn Rothman in memory of Harry Rothman Adult Education Mark and Carole Grayson Used for Adult Education Programs and Leadership Training Programs. Lisa Elaine Feingold Memorial Fund Alan and Enid Feingold in memory of Steve Burwick Art Prayer Book and Ritual Fund Alan and Jody Yoffie in memory of Rabbi Herbert E. Drooz and Used to purchase and display artwork to Judith S. Yoffie Please send donations to: Attn: Donations beautify the synagogue. Congregation B’nai Shalom Rabbi Debra R Hachen Caring Fund PO Box 1019, Westborough, MA 01581-6019 Stacey and Elliott Berger and Family in loving memory of our In order for an acknowledgement to be sent, the donation must Building Improvement mother/nana, Jeannette Berger Fund be at least $10, and must include the name of the fund, the Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund name and address of the person(s) to whom the acknowledge- Used for special projects on the interior of Jean and Glen Kessler in memory of Samuel Chafetz ment is to be sent, and your name and address. the Congregation B’nai Shalom building Charles and Lynda Nelson and Family in memory of You can also donate at including maintenance, repairs, security, Bea Zuckerman https://www.cbnaishalom.org/donations.html. and furniture.

Early Childhood Used for Early Childhood programming.

General Used to support the congregation’s current budget.

High Holy Day Used to arrange our High Holy Day Services.

Jennifer Lee Levine Youth Supports cultural and educational programs to benefit out preteen and teen members. Honors and Memorials Joel I. Silverstein There are many ways to commemorate a special lifecycle event, or remember a loved one. Our beautiful Tree of Life in the lobby is a way to mark a Bar or Bat Used to refurbish the temple kitchen. Mitzvah, a graduation, or just to express thanks. We can also dedicate a copy of our Shabbat Prayer Book, Mishkan T’filah, or our High Holy Days Prayer Books with an Landscape Improvement inscription. Library In addition, many remember a loved one through a Yahrtzeit plaque on our Memorial Wall, which will be illuminated annually on the anniversary of your loved one’s death. Used to purchase books for children and adults for our circulating library. Go to https://www.cbnaishalom.org/donations.html or contact the temple office at 508-366-7191. Lisa Elaine Feingold Memorial Used for the annual children’s Hanukkah celebration and for media or cultural projects to benefit our Pre-K to Grade 1 students.

Music Used to augment the congregation’s musical programs. March 2019 Page 19 Yahrzeits and Condolences 1 March, 2019 25 Adar I, 5779 15 March 9 Adar II Prayer Book and Ritual Jeannette Berger Lea Kraus Dr. John Cryan Effie Meaghan Harrington * Used to purchase items needed in the Murray Boykin * Ruth Markowitz Frances Elowitch Mary Richardson sanctuary, religious observerance, and Leona Breeze Anna Marks Elliott Stanley Finn Dora Smith copies of our High Holiday prayerbook Samuel Cohen Norman Medvin Charles Halpert Gilbert Weinstein and our regular prayerbook, Mishkan Marie Cotton Lena Miller T’filah. A donation of $36 for Mishkah Shirley Davidoff Morey Seidman * 22 March 16 Adar II T’filah is acknowledged with a bookplate James Eisenstock Dorothy Siegal on the inside cover of the prayerbook. Michael Federman * Milton Silver Leon Antarsh * Carole Garland * Frances Silver Sandee Eiduson Myles Gatterman Edward Silverman Gregory Gustafson Rabbi Debra R. Hachen Gary Hamos * Danielle Simas * Irving Hurwitz Caring Herb Hoffman Myra Slovin * Rosalie Lubitz Used to offer emergency assistance to Florence Hymowitz Nathan J. Talbot Samuel Resnick congregants in times of need. Gertrude Isaacson Charlotte Wernick Sanford Rubin Meyer Temkin Virginia Kopald Rabbi’s Discretionary 29 March 23 Adar II Used by the rabbi for Tzedakah (charity) 8 March 2 Adar II and special projects. Bonnie Bassuk Isadore Ostroff * Charles Fried Burton Cohen Irving Rosen Cheryl Jacobson Donna Beth Diemont David Saul Rubenstein * Charles E. Linsey Rabbi-Educator’s Clara Douglas Lillian Seidman * Doris Pollack Discretionary Sylvia Ehrlich * Norman Shapiro Yale Richards Used by the rabbi-educator for Tzedakah Saul Epstein Rita Weber * Sheldon Seidman * and special projects. Stanley Epstein Paul Weissman * Irving Zuckerman Newman Kopald Marilyn Darlene Wyner * Ron Kramer Judith S Yoffie Social Action Shirley Kramer Lillian Zaft * Yahrzeit Plaque Used for social action and mitzvah Richard Mack * Robert Zwetchkenbaum programs, including “Mitzvah Day”, Oscar Merzel * educational activities and speakers, and to assist worthy non-profit causes selected by the Social Action Committee.

Steve Meltzer Memorial Summer Camp Scholarship Used to defray some of the costs of The congregation extends its condolences to the following families on the deaths of their loved ones. attending summer programs offered by nonprofit Jewish organizations. • Laura, Andrew, and Benjamin Bishop, on the death of Laura’s mother, Cheryl Jepsen Seide• Qualifying programs include Jewish overnight nonprofit summer camps and other programs for students sponsored Zichronam Livracha, may their memories be a blessing. by nonprofit Jewish organizations.

CBS Cares • Yad b’Yad Used by the CBS Cares committee to prepare and deliver meals to congregants who are ill or caring for a family member; making friendly visits to congregants with various needs; sending זכרונם לברכה cards etc.

Youth Used to further the work of all of our youth groups, and provide subsidies for retreats, conclaves, and conferences. Congregation B’nai Shalom NON-PROFIT ORG 117 East Main Street US POSTAGE PO Box 1019 PAID Westborough, MA 01581-6019 Westborough, MA Permit No. 93 Member of the Union for Reform Judaism

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Congregation B’nai Shalom Monthly Connections Departments Features Worship Schedule...... 2 Fabulous at 40RTY!...... 1 From the Rabbi – Beyond 40 years ...... 3 Celebratory Shabbat on March 15 – 16...... 5 From Our President – FABULOUS AT 40RTY...... 4 Shabbat Rishon Winter Format — At The Shabbat Table...... 6 From Our Executive Director – Lessons Learned...... 5 Purim Carnival on March 24...... 7 From the Desk of Rabbi Eiduson...... 6 40th Anniversary Purim Celebration on March 20...... 8 Religious School – What’s Happening...... 6–7 An Encounter with Jewish Latin American Poetry...... 9 Purim! March 20 at 6:45 pm...... 8 Iron Chef Rabbi with Passover Wine Pairing...... 9 From Our Youth Educator...... 8 Sisterhood Action...... 10 Member Activities...... 9–12 B’nai Shalom Book Group on April 8...... 10 Our B’nai Mitzvah...... 13 My Toddler and Me! • Tuesdays, 9:30 – 11:00 am...... 10 Our Sponsors...... 14–16 Brotherhood News...... 11 Calendar...... 17 Are you Newish (to CBS)?...... 11 Birthdays...... 17 Member Social Groups...... 11 Donations...... 18 Yahrzeits and Condolences...... 19

The Congregation B’nai ShalomMonthly Connections is published 12 times a year (11 monthly issues and a High Holy Days Supplement) by Congregation B’nai Shalom, PO Box 1019, 117 East Main Street, Westborough, MA 01581-6019. All content is the responsibility of Congregation B’nai Shalom. Comments and submissions should be e-mailed to [email protected]. The deadline is the 10th of the month. Copyright © 2019, Congregation B’nai Shalom, Westborough, MA All Rights Reserved