The TBI Bulletin December 2018 Temple B’nai , the Reform Jewish Congregation of Kalamazoo

The history of the celebration of is one of my favorite things to talk about because in comparison with some other Simone Schicker (read Biblical) holidays, Hanukkah is a minor holiday. The desire for Hanukkah to become a major celebration can be traced [email protected] to the late 19th and early 20th centuries 269-350-1825 here in America.

As many Jewish immigrants found their place in American society, they wished to In This Issue of find a way to celebrate alongside their Christian neighbors during the Christmas season. Many new immi- The TBI Bulletin grants felt pressure to shed their old ways and to exchange gifts with their neighbors. An article appeared in the Forward, in 1904, and quoted “Jewish Christmas shoppers, who, when challenged, asked Page (in ), “Who says we haven’t Americanized?” The paper Rabbi’s Column 1 observed, “The purchase of Christmas gifts is one of the first things that proves one is no longer a greenhorn.” OKCJS News 4 TBI Calendar 8 This response, that Americanizing meant the exchange of Christmas gifts, caused some distress to Jewish community leaders. Yet they TBI Staff, Board 10 too recognized that needed something. Rabbi Kaufman and Committees Kohler, who would later become President of Hebrew Union College, wrote in 1890 the following in the newspaper The Menorah: “How can the Jew, without losing self-respect, partake in the joy and festive mirth of Christmas? Can he without self-surrender, without Temple B’nai Israel entailing insult and disgrace upon his faith and race, plant the 4409 Grand Prairie Christmas tree in his household?” Yet, Rabbi Kohler admitted that P.O. Box 19666 “Hanukkah as then celebrated by American Jewry could not hold a Kalamazoo, MI 49019 candle (so to speak) to Christmas.” Kohler said of the comparison, 269-342-9170 “How humble and insignificant does one appear by the side of the [email protected] other” and suggested that Hanukkah needed more pizzazz if it was www.templebnaiisrael.com to compete with Christmas.”

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Hanukkah Community Potluck and Cook-Off Friday, December 7, at 7:00 p.m., following 6:00 services

Get out your graters; it’s time for TBI’s great latke cook-off! Sweet, savory, traditional -- we love them all. Fry at home and keep them warm in our state-of-the-art warming oven or make arrangements to cook at temple in the new kitchen space. Awards will be given to the people’s choice and celebrity judges’ picks.

Competition not your thing? Bring a vegetarian dish to pass to round out our dinner menu.

Fun for the whole family! Along with games and gelt prizes, we will swap “grab bag” gifts for children. If you would like to participate, please bring a gender-neutral, all-ages wrapped or bagged gift worth $5-$10 to exchange. (Need ideas? How about gift cards or Hanukkah-themed knick knacks.)

Please sign up for a dish/beverage to pass or secure your latke entry at: http://bit.ly/TBIHanukkah2018

If you have any questions, contact Member Connections Committee Cochair Nora Chaus at [email protected] or at (269) 373-4138.

Scenes from the Hanukkah Bazaar

MANY THANKS to EVERYONE who helped make TBI's 2018 Hanukkah Bazaar a great success!

Appreciation to all the vendors for bringing your beautiful crafts and delicious homemade goods. The bazaar was vibrant and festive with the variety of your creative works.

Thanks to all the shoppers for your support. The continuous stream of all ages of shoppers helped make for a lively and successful event. Sales of Hanukkah supplies, gift items (from the glass case), and vendor table fees raised $300 for the religious school!

BIG THANKS to every one of you who stepped up to handle the details which made the bazaar come to life! Whether it was set up, clean up, publicity, purchasing, pricing, staffing a table, giving opinions, suggestions, or wisdom from prior years, (yes, a lot of work goes into this!), you all made it happen!! And some extra gratitude here for Carol Berg, (a new TBI member, if you don't recognize her name), who generously offered and did anything and everything that was needed! You rock!!

Each year that I've been coordinating the Hanukkah Bazaar, in the weeks before the event I get over- whelmed with the things that need to get done, and I think, "I'm not gonna do this next year". This year, I sent an email to a few people with a desperate plea for help, and the response was amazing. True to the TBI community way, many people took on the many tasks, and it all came together. With support like that, surely WE (and I) can do it again next year! Rebecca Pollens

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If you're attending this event at the KIA, bring your own menorah and candles so that everyone can light candles together. It will be a beautiful sight! See you there! RSVP by Friday, November 30, at http://www.kjfed.com/

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The High School Class at OKCJS

With adult guidance, the students in grades 8-10 are developing their own curriculum and are implementing much of what they learned through the Chai curriculum. They are doing this through direct action and through delving deeper into various topics (continuing the spiral curriculum that Chai established).

During the three years students spend in the high school curriculum, we hope to help them understand that: • Judaism is more than a religion, it is a culture, a way of life, • engaging in acts of G’milut Chasadim is a lifelong pursuit, and that • we are all a part of K’lal Yisrael, the Jewish People, and knowing more about our history and current events is paramount in allowing us to participate in the ongoing story of K’lal Yisrael.

The students meet together for one class on Sunday morning from 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Teachers for the class are Rabbi Schicker and Beth Grode, with assistance from adult volunteers as needed.

In September, the students visited a member of the congregation who is at a rehab facility and discussed what it means to visit the sick. They cooked a and took it to a family who was sitting shiva after discussing shiva with Rabbi Spivak. They also had an introductory lesson on “How is THAT Jewish?” They discussed various topics (Christmas carols, comedy, musicians, science, gender, etc.) through a Jewish lens with Rabbi Schicker. Beth Grode

In October, students watched the film “7 Days in Entebbe,” and had a discussion to prepare them for a visiting speaker. To help them understand that, as a Jew, they have a responsibility to help make the world a better place through acts of g’milut chasadim, they volunteered at Ministry with Community. Students attended a lecture with Rabbi Sasso to understand more about the struggles of women entering and participating in the rabbinate. They also attended a panel discussion “Growing Up Jewish in America”. They were able to hear about the lives of four adult, Jewish women and learn about the different experiences children and teenagers in the Jewish community based on location, schooling, and the movement of Judaism they grew up in.

Students attended a panel discussion on anti-semitism in November so that they could understand the basics of how anti-semitism developed historically and learn how to recognize anti-semitic slogans, pictures, and phrases. Now they will be able to explain to others why an act is anti-semitic. They also volunteered at an animal shelter and had a lesson about the land of Israel today.

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OKCJS News (cont’d from pg. 4)

If you pass by the classroom, you will see piles of plastic bags in the corner and wonder what is going on. When the students get tired and need a break, they get out their scissors and plastic grocery bags and make plarn, “plastic yarn.” Plarn is made by cutting plastic grocery bags into strips, which are then strung together into a single long strand. One of the students learned about a woman in Kalamazoo who crochets plarn into warming mats for the homeless. The class decided they wanted to help and now they make plarn, roll it into balls, and donate it so that she can make more mats for the homeless.

The students volunteer somewhere in Kalamazoo each month. Throughout the school year, the high school students are also encouraged to volunteer in the school. Five 8th-10th grade students volunteer before their class starts as teacher assistants. Another volunteers as a Hebrew tutor. They will all be volunteering on December 2 when Noah Aronson visits our school. Their work in the school is vital to our overall curriculum. While they are learning how to take on a leadership role in our school, they also connect with the younger students in a way the teachers can’t. It’s a win-win situation!

As always, thank you for the honor of teaching our children.

Nora Chaus, Director, OKCJS

Rabbi’s Column (cont’d from pg. 1)

It would not be until the 1920s, when Jewish immigration was halted, that Hanukkah found its footing as a major gift-giving, winter holiday. The commercialization of Hanukkah caused the growth of the celebration of Hanukkah just as the commercialization of Christmas had done. For example: • Colgate promoted toiletries as Hanukkah gifts. • Barton’s candies marketed chocolates wrapped in gold foil to simulate Hanukkah gelt [money]. • Aunt Jemima flour proclaimed itself “the best flour for .” • Hadassah Newsletter advised that “mah-jongg sets make appreciated Hanukkah gifts.”

The growth of Hanukkah as a time to celebrate grew even more after the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. This growth was of a different sort, as it was based upon a new understanding of the struggles of the as written about in the books of First and Second Maccabees. The citizens of the new State had been victorious against invasion and felt the spirit of the Maccabees was born again. This spirit showed the Jews as a people willing to take up arms in defense of their homeland. A story which paralleled well with the birth of the new State.

It is important to note that while First and Second Maccabees are not read as a part of the Jewish Bible, they are widely read. The Books find a role in the Canon of the Catholic Bible, but only as a part of the Apocrypha (biblical or related writings not forming part of the accepted canon of Scripture) in the Jewish and Protestant traditions. First and Second Maccabees explore the story of the military victory but not of the miracle of Hanukkah. We find the miracle mentioned first in the Mishnah, and then later in the Talmud along with directions on how to celebrate the holiday. It is from the Talmud that we learn of the role of the hanukkiah, the nine-branched menorah, in our celebration. Hanukkah is truly a celebration of light as it is a celebration of the rededication of the Temple, and the acknowledgement that it takes people working together to bring light into a dark world.

A holiday within a holiday?!? Hanukkah is the only holiday to straddle two months; therefore, the celebration of Rosh Chodesh during Hanukkah is a special one. We hope you will come out and celebrate Rosh Chodesh on Saturday, December 8, 7:00 p.m. For more information about this special holiday, please see: https://www.ritualwell.org/ritual/chag-habanot-festival-daughters Questions can be directed to Terra Eash at [email protected].

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FUNDRAISER FOR TBI

This time of year, we are often thinking of gifts for friends and family. There are so many people that add to our lives in big and small ways, and it is great to recognize them. You might be lucky to have an amazing teacher, neighbor, employee or colleague — but perhaps you don't know what to get them. A gift card is the perfect answer to this dilemma! And if you purchase the gift card through Scrip, you can also give to TBI at the same time and for no additional cost to you!

I happen to have an amazing mail lady; she is so cheerful that just watching her drive down the street brightens my day. I have no idea what her name is, what foods she likes, or where she regularly shops. But I feel confident that a gift card will be a perfect way to show my appreciation to her. Using Scrip, I can choose from 700+ vendors, and for each purchase a percentage will go directly to TBI. A practical gift card from Target will donate 2.5% to TBI, and a purely fun and sugary gift card from Fannie May Candies will donates 25%!

The next Scrip order deadline for plastic/hard gift cards is 12:00 noon Monday, December 10, for delivery by Thursday, December 13. This is the only order for December. Enrollment in Scrip is e.a.s.y. and fast! To get the enrollment code or to ask any questions about Scrip, please email me at [email protected].

Rosh Chodesh feminine spirituality group

Rosh Chodesh feminine spirituality group

Open and welcoming to all who seek to deepen their connection to the divine, indwelling presence of God (Shekinah). We will meet at the temple to celebrate the month of Tevet on Saturday, December 8, from 7:00-8:30 p.m.

During Tevet, we learn to embrace the darkest time of the year. We will experience a special candle lighting ceremony, discuss the many facets of anger and make a take-home set of Hanukkah candles.

For more information about Rosh Chodesh traditions for the month of Tevet, go to: https://www.ritualwell.org/ritual/essence-tevet

Please email Terra at [email protected] with questions or to RSVP.

TBI Bookclub

No bookclub gathering in December. Will keep you posted on January date and book.

Cary Mannaberg

6 Member Interview—Terra Eash

Terra Eash joined Temple B’nai Israel in August 2017. She describes herself as being on a spiritual quest since age 15, learning about various religions, and looking for a good fit that could become her spiritual home. She explored Hinduism and Buddhism, as well as practicing yoga. Terra also studied Kabbalah and was very interested in the mystical realm, which led her to further explore Judaism. She grew up in Centerville, MI, where there were no Jewish people, to her knowledge. Wanting to learn more, Terra came to a Hanukkah service at TBI (with Eugenia Zachs-Carney) about two years ago, and then took the Intro to Judaism class offered at the temple. In August 2017, Terra joined TBI on a trial basis and jumped right in. She got on the Member Connections commit- tee and took a lead role in every holiday celebration at TBI. Terra also started studying with Rabbi Matt, which has continued over the past year, and will come full circle as Terra plans to convert to Judaism in March. Terra’s partner, Josh Cypher, was raised Catholic. He has been volunteering with Terra serving meals at Ministry with Community and likes being part of TBI’s social justice work.

Terra enjoys teaching yoga from her home and also works downtown at Daus Financial Group (data organization and technology). After high school (in Centerville), she moved to Muskegon, where she attended Baker College and received a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems and Psychology. Terra likes Kalamazoo, where she has lived since 2008. When compared to Centerville, she especially appreciates that there is more diversity, more things to do, and something for everyone. Josh owns Cypher Technologies, which provides IT support to businesses, and Cypher Real Estate, which owns and rents residential and commercial properties. When he’s not working, Josh enjoys tinkering with stuff in the basement, making good use of his workshop. He’s very creative and handy at fixing and making things. Terra enjoys various spiritual practices, such as yoga and gong sound healing. She continues to be very involved with the work of the Member Connections Committee and leads the monthly Rosh Chodesh group.

Terra and Josh have two 2-year old dogs, Dug and Luna, a brother and sister from the same litter, (golden retriever and border collie combo), which keep them very busy. They also have made part of their home into an Airbnb, welcoming guests frequently. AND … they are expecting their first child in April!!

Terra feels the TBI community has been so welcoming and genuine. She knows people are there for her, as she has been for others, to lend support if needed. She has made many good connections with people and feels very much at home.

WARM WELCOME to you and your family, Terra! (AND congratulations to you and Josh on the new family member due in spring.)

Rebecca Pollens

Miscellaneous

• Temple is looking for 2-3 chairs or a bench, as well as a rug, to go outside of Rabbi Schicker's office (end of the hallway, where the desks used to be). If you are interested in donating items or funds to purchase new items, please let Rabbi Schicker know at [email protected].

• Interested in volunteering to serve the annual Christmas dinner at Blue Dolphin? We need 6 volunteers from 11:55 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Christmas Day. We will join COM members. Anyone interested can contact Sue Goldenberg at 269-568-0505 or [email protected]. Thanks.

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Upcoming Temple and Worship Events

Saturday, December 1 Monday, December 10 10 AM: Minyan Milamed 10 AM: Adult Hebrew Class

Sunday, December 2 Wednesday, December 12 9:15 AM: Religious School at COM 4:30 PM: Religious School at TBI 4 PM: Noah Aronson at KIA/Community Hanukkah Celebration 6 PM: Community Menorah Lighting Friday, December 14 in Bronson Park 6 PM: Tot Shabbat 6:45 PM: Oneg for All 7:30 PM: Shabbat services Monday, December 3 10 AM: Adult Hebrew Class 6 PM: Community Menorah Lighting Saturday, December 15 in Bronson Park 10 AM: Minyan Milamed

Tuesday, December 4 Sunday, December 16 6 PM: Community Menorah Lighting 9:15 AM: Religious School at COM in Bronson Park

Monday, December 17 Wednesday, December 5 10 AM: Adult Hebrew Class 4:30 PM: Religious School at TBI 6 PM: Community Menorah Lighting in Bronson Park Wednesday, December 19 4:30 PM: Religious School at TBI 7 PM: TBI Monthly Board Meeting Thursday, December 6 6 PM: Community Menorah Lighting in Bronson Park Friday, December 21 7 PM: Shabbat services

Friday, December 7 4:30 PM: Community Menorah Lighting Saturday, December 22 in Bronson Park 10 AM: Minyan Milamed 6 PM: Shabbat services 7 PM: Latke Cookoff & Potluck Dinner 8 PM: Oneg Monday, December 24 10 AM: Adult Hebrew Class

Saturday, December 8 10 AM: Minyan Milamed Friday, December 28 6 PM: Community Menorah Lighting 7 PM: Shabbat services in Bronson Park 7 PM: Rosh Chodesh Group—Tevet Saturday, December 29 10 AM: Minyan Milamed Sunday, December 9 9:15 AM: Religious School at COM 12:30 PM: Serve meal at Ministry with Community 6 PM: Community Menorah Lighting in Bronson Park

8 December 2018 December & January Donations Oneg Hosts

Rabbi Salary Fund December 7 Goldenberg Roslyn and Richard Cooper Marlene and Stephen Denenfeld December 14 Podolsky & Riley Abby and Mark Miller

General Donation December 21 R/S Pollens & R Bertman Diane Schear and Mike Tanoff December 28 Jones & Open

December 2018 Birthdays January 4 Olken & Smith

Ben Berkowitz Cheryl Pesti January 11 Nutting & Chaus

Isaac Bertman Jennifer Pike January 18 Winter & Messinger Nora Chaus Gabriel Podolsky January 25 Tanoff/Schear & Halpern Laura Feffer Merrie Shina Steve Feffer Alexandria Siskind Contact Sue at [email protected] if you can help Steve Hanson Eric Siskind as an oneg host. Thank you. Joanna Hartenstein- Gavin Siskind McIntyre Lauren Smith Lexie Hemenway Bill Stein Austin Hemenway Lynn Stevens Deb Hemenway Elizah Whitsett Zoe Leinwand Sharon Wittenberg Christopher Mejia Joel Wittenberg Naomi Morse Raye Ziring December Perpetual Memorials (Yahrzeits)

BARBARA SALLY BERTMAN ABRAM KAGAN MILTON ‘PEPPY’ RESSLER RUTH K COHEN JODY KATZ ZELDA ROTHSTEIN PEARL CLAYON SIDNEY S KATZ SADYE RUBIN HARRY COHON JOSEPH KESTENBAUM MARC SISMAN ROBERT ALAN DAVIS BETTIE KLOPFENSTEIN FAY SKOLNIK-PLAKS NANCY BOWLES ELLIN ROBBIE LEVINE MARK SKOLNIK EDWARD FINMAN HELEN LEVY PHILLIP W STARK BEATRICE GOLDMAN FISHER LEONARD ARTHUR MAYER JACK SAUSNER RABBI STEPHEN FORESTEIN MILTON ORWIN ANNA BERG ZIRING IRVING HURWITZ DAVID RAKIETEN MARSHALL ZIRING

9 Temple B’nai Israel Staff, Board, and Committees

Rabbi Caring Circle Simone Schicker Cochairs Ellen Winter & Morry Edwards

Synagogue Associate Cemetery Committee Chair Dr. Michael A. Tanoff Jacob Weintraub

Okun Kalamazoo Community Jewish School Communications Committee Chair Director Nora Chaus Cheryl Pesti Treasurer Brandt Lubratich Member Connections Committee Administrative Assistant & Newsletter Editor Cochairs Cary Mannaberg & Nora Chaus Julie Lewandowski Finance Committee Chair Rick Rodbard Temple Board of Trustees President Sharon Wittenberg Fundraising Committee Chair Open Vice President of Operations and Programs Rose Kirsch Vice President of Membership Randy Lubratich Religious Activities Committee Chair Mike Tanoff Recording Secretary Hayley Wasser Corresponding Secretary Steve Klein Joint Religious School Committee Treasurer Abby Miller Brandt Lubratich, Paulette Thompson, Eric Siskind Members at Large Brian Horvitz, Jacob Hurwitz, Ken Odza, Raye Ziring Social Action Committee Cochairs Sue Goldenberg & Robin Pollens Immediate Past President Joan Hawxhurst Webmaster Randy Lubratich Building Committee Chair Dave Goldenberg

Temple B’nai Israel, founded in 1866, is a thriving congregation that actively engages all its members in Reform Jewish cultural, spiritual, and educational growth, individually and as a diverse and welcoming community.

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