AaronionThe TEMPLE OF AARON’S MONTHLY NEWSLETTER 616 S. Mississippi River Blvd. • St. Paul, MN 55116-1099 (651) 698-8874 • www.templeofaaron.org

Vol. 87 • No. 12 August 1, 2012 13 Av, 5772

Hugh Gitlin – The 2012 Ner Tamid Award Honoree Gulner Strengthens Staff On July 5, by unanimous Mark Gulner is our first Director of Informal Education and acclamation, the Temple of Marketing. He began July 1, 2012 and is focusing on Aaron Board of Directors voted engaging our youth in meaningful and compelling to present Hugh Gitlin the 2012 programming. Mark is experienced in motivating children Ner Tamid Award as its ninth and teens to form solid Jewish friendships and honoree. The award is made connections to meet present and future challenges. In annually to a long-standing addition, he will use his marketing knowledge acquired member of Temple of Aaron over the past eight years to raise the visibility of our who, as a volunteer, has had a synagogue in every area. continuing and visible impact on Mark is the son of Ernie and Martha Gulner and grew up the welfare and vitality at the Temple of Aaron with his twin brother Scott. Mark on Temple of Aaron’s was recently married to Amy, daughter of Dr. Alan and membership for a protracted Nancy Goldenhar, and they will be celebrating their period of time. This year, and second anniversary this henceforth, the award will also year. He attended Henry be presented in the memory of Sibley High School in Richard “Dick” Shaller. Dick’s Mendota Heights and vision and high moral standard as a member of the Keruv spent several years at the committee (the committee responsible for ultimately making the Temple of Aaron as the nomination to the Board) is now reflected on a part of the youth director while nomination process. The Ner Tamid Award will be presented to attending the University Hugh at the Selichot service on Saturday evening, Sept. 8, 2012. of Minnesota Like many who belong to Temple of Aaron, Hugh has been a life- to complete his BS in long member. But unlike most, Hugh’s experiences as a English Literature. After volunteer began very early on. In fact, Hugh’s first effort as a gaining experience volunteer might be considered the USY play he appeared in at working here as the the age of six. But there is no question though that it started in Youth Director at Temple earnest when he began ushering for the High Holydays at the of Aaron, EMTZA/SWUSY age of 16. Region USY hired Mark to be part of their team. Now, nearly 35 years later, Hugh has become as much a fixture at Temple of Aaron as anyone aside from the clergy and staff. He For the past five years Mark has excelled as the Regional gave up ushering after eight years to move to the “back” as a Youth Director for EMTZA Region (United Synagogue for member of the choir, which he has now been a part of for more Conservative Judaism) which included within than 25 years. But he hasn’t left USY beyond. While not a Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, parent, Hugh’s volunteer experiences with USY plays include five North and South Dakota, and Wisconsin, as well as play appearances, twice being the assistant director, and working with USY’s Southwest Regional synagogues participating the last four years as a set builder. including Louisiana, Texas, and Oklahoma. Within this position Mark successfully coordinated multiple Hugh has been president of Men’s Club twice. He was an active conventions and teen programs with focuses on Israel, supporter and participant in the new Sukkah project during his social action, education, fun and Tikun Olam second term – during which he also pushed Men’s club to fundraising. He spearheaded the region’s success in donate the cost of one repair and started the “Dinner with fostering Jewish teen leadership and identity. The — continued on page 8 — — continued on page 6 — From the ’s Desk . . . Renew Yourself! In Israel, if somebody purchases a new For Jews, calendar creates this time of renewal with the High Holydays. Each תתחדש – item, it is customary to say Titchadesh, which means: “Enjoy the year we are offered a chance to renew newness.” But the actual word means, our lives, to re-focus our relationships “Renew yourself.” This curious idiom and ourselves, and to become better links the mundane purchase of new people. This renewal gives us all a things to the personal imperative to chance to be our best selves. renew our lives. The Temple of Aaron is in a period of I believe there is a desire to constantly renewal as well. We have a new Assistant improve and renew ourselves, be it in our Rabbi, Jeremy Fine. We are welcoming personal lives, our relationships, our Mark Gulner back in a new role as community, The impulse and ability to Director of Informal Education and renew ourselves is built into the very Marketing. Josh Fineblum’s role has Rabbi Alan Shavit-Lonstein nature of the world around us. expanded to become Director of [email protected] Education and Community Life; and we 651-698-8874 ext. 111 Spring is nature’s automatic time of welcome Susan Tervola as our new renewal. The trees blossom, baby Clergy Assistant. Cantor Kowitz and I are animals are born and the days lengthen our lives. We will share some of the thrilled with this new team. Together we and become warmer. After the heat of specific plans for our continued will build on the strong foundation of the the summer, cooling temperatures arrive congregational renewal, the many synagogue’s past renewals, and look and nature prepares for rest. opportunities available to the diverse towards an exciting future. In future circles of community at the synagogue, Humans, however, gear up and after the columns we will reinforce the value of lay and the many ways you can be frenetic fun of children, grandchildren, leadership impacting our synagogue and involved. Please share contact data with nieces and nephews home from school broader community and our dedicated us for the names unaffiliated friends, and activities, we deliberately introduce support staff. neighbors and adult children so they can structure back into our lives. We are able One important step in this process will be join our community for the High to renew, to begin with a new direction the second day of Rosh Hashanah Holydays. and energy, to build on the foundation of (September 18) which will focus on the the past to a new future. It does not It’s time to begin again. It is time for theme of renewal. Using readings, songs happen as automatically as in nature, renewal. We look forward to having you and prayer we will explore a variety of and it takes awareness and effort. join us. As we say in Hebrew, Titchadesh! ways that we can renew all aspects of

(For Toddler-1st Grade Families) August 10th

Time: Questions? Joshua Fineblum, Director of Education Friday Night [email protected] Lindsay Berg, Coordinator 6:00 PM-7:00 PM [email protected]

2 Cantor’s Column The Power of the High Holydays

Every single year I look forward to the High Holydays. One of the reasons is that It is difficult to forgive yourself. How the power of this time gives us the many times have you still carried the opportunity to have a clean slate. Every burden of not forgiving yourself for single year we spend our time making certain decisions that you know were not decisions. Some of them are small, and the right ones? The High Holydays give some of them are quite large. Decisions us this opportunity of forgiveness. It that we make in the year help define us teaches us that every year we should and our character. When we make bad start fresh. We can learn from our ones, we often regret it. But what can we mistakes, and try our best to correct do about it? How can we fix what has them. We need to learn each and every already been done? year about ourselves and about how our Hazzan Mitchell D. Kowitz actions affect others. [email protected] The first thing we can do if we hurt our 651-698-8874 ext. 113 friend is go directly to that person, and So this year, when we all come together apologize for what we did. This is not to pray in September, let us not just ask always easy, but it is something that we forgiveness from our friends and from need to do. We also need to ask God. Let us also try to find the strength AUGUST WEDDING forgiveness from God. This is a little to be able to forgive ourselves. That will easier, but still somewhat difficult. I think go a long way in freeing ourselves so that ANNIVERSARIES the most challenging thing is to forgive we can truly have a new start for a new We display every 5 years and all ourselves. year. anniversaries of more than 50 years

מזל טוב Sign up now for our first

Got Shabbat 25 Judy & Jim Berg 30 Sandra Rosenberg & Jim Liston Synagogue dinner! 35 Mary & Bill Lerman September 14, 2012 35 Susan & Ramon Gonzalez 35 Nancy & Steve Lane More information and to 45 Victoria & Ben Pieser sign up refer to page 7 50 Jean & Yale Kanter 51 Ellen & Paul Roitenberg 52 Ida & David Valdman 54 Ruta Fradkina & Mikhail Fradkin 56 Shirley & Ron Goldman Help Those 57 Georgia & Jerry Fishman Who Need Food Shelf 57 Sis & Ron Goren Help us make progress in the state- wide fight against hunger. Support our 57 Jan & Sherm Ringer food shelf! 57 Ryv & Bill Tilsner

You can leave food at the synagogue. 58 Betty & Harold Zats You can use our website and make an online donation. You can mail a check 61 Malka & Ernie Goodman to chair person Harriet Levy and she 63 Marilyn & Mel Warren will mail a card for a celebration, get well or condolence. 64 Barbara & Fred Hirsekorn 65 Roza & Motel Vinokur 3 Department of Informal Education

The Temple of Aaron Youth department is very excited to begin an amazing year. It is the goal of the department to create programming that will engage all grade levels and encourage youth within the synagogue to come and join one of the many groups the youth department offers. Whether you are a 3rd-4th grader in Chaverim, 5th-6th grader in B’resheet, 7th-8th grader in Kadima or a 9th- 12th grader in USY, the Temple of Aaron Youth department will be offering new exciting programs for your children throughout the school year.

Before heading off to camps, jobs and Israel for the summer the members of the Temple of Aaron USY Executive Board participated in a retreat to focus on the types of programming we would like to offer throughout the year and to strengthen the Mark Gulner already strong connection that they have with each other. One of main goals for this Director of Informal Education group is to insure that the programs we run for all of our age groups are well-planned, & Marketing well-executed, and are programs that our youth are interested in attending. The [email protected] members of this board are truly enthusiastic about the upcoming year. 651-698-8874 ext. 114 If you have any questions or comments about what type of programming your child will be interested in please contact Director of Informal Education & Marketing Mark Summer in Israel & Poland Gulner. Have an amazing rest of the summer and we look forward to seeing you at our next event!

USY leadership goes to St. Louis! Eight young leaders from The Temple of Aaron will continue to enhance their skills by attending EMTZA Region’s Leadership Training Institute (LTI) in St. Louis, MO, August 24-26. Besides the intense leadership sessions, the USYers will also participate in programming focused on teen issues, social action, Israel and Tikkun Olam. The USYers who attend this seminar always return energized to begin the year, have a greater understanding and appreciation of the leadership they can bring, and time management skills and dedication to creating programming that all of their peers will appreciate. Looking forward to an amazing year!

A Life-Changing Experience Although summer for most students is a time to relax and take it easy for others it is a great time to see new places, learn about new cultures and to meet other young Jews from across the country. Several USYers from the Temple of Aaron are spending six weeks on USY Poland and Israel Summer Pilgrimage. This program is an amazing opportunity for our young people to explore Jewish life in Poland, followed by four weeks of renewal in Israel. A full week is spent discovering the history and culture of Polish Jewry, including visits to the concentration camps of Sobibor, Majdanek, Auschwitz, Birkenau, and Treblinka. After they experience Poland, the USYers have an amazing time spending four weeks exploring the length and breadth of Israel. They will be exposed to the history and contemporary realities of Judaism and Israel. Climb the fortress of Masada, explore the stalactite caves of Netifim, swim in the waters of the Kinneret, pray at the Kotel, and drink tea in a Bedouin tent on the sands of the Negev desert. They will experience these sights and sounds with new friends who share the love of Israel that we all feel. We look forward to welcoming these USYers back to the Temple of Aaron with a renewed passion for Israel and know that this experience will only go to strengthen the connection that these USYers have with the Temple of Aaron and their homeland.

4

Lilmod U’lilamed — “To Teach and to Learn”- Pirkei Avot ללמד וללמד

I hope you are having an amazing summer and relaxing before getting ready for another wonderful school and programming year here at Temple of Aaron. I, along with Rabbi Shavit-Lonstein, Rabbi Fine, Cantor Kowitz, Mark Gulner, and Susie Haim are very busy cleaning, updating the calendar, and brainstorming programming as we are getting ready for another exciting year with plenty of things for everyone to par- take in this coming year. Please be on the lookout for information about all of our programming in the September issue of the Aaronian including:

 5th-6th grade Junior Congregation Family Services

 2nd-4th Grade Little Minyan Family Services

 Family Education programming for Toddler-7th grade

 Junior/Senior Seminar Information

Joshua Fineblum  Congregational programming for the Fall months and beyond Director of Education I am looking forward to a great beginning to a wonderful year of programming and & Community Life please let me know what I can do to make your and your family feel comfortable here [email protected] at Temple of Aaron. I would love to hear what you want and how I can help provide 651-698-8874 ext. 103 you with what you wish to see happen at your synagogue.

Have an amazing rest of the summer and I'm looking forward to seeing you back and ready to go in the Fall! Register Students Now for 2012—2013 Watch for B’YACHAD bins at Temple of Aaron

Remember to register your beginning in September child(ren) for next year to get Once again, we’re collecting toys, books, sporting equipment, toiletries, gift cards and other items to create gift baskets for children and tuition discounts. adults in need during the winter holidays. Participating organizations: Adath Israel Congregation, Beth Jacob Congrega- Encourage friends and tion, B.O.N.D., Jewish Family Service, Mount Zion Temple, Oneg Shabbos non-members to try our school V’Yom Tov, Saint Paul JCC, Shaller Family Sholom East, Talmud Torah, Temple of Aaron and receive one month of FREE and The Jewish Federation of Greater St. Paul.

tuition (restrictions apply). For more information, contact Tim Gothmann at Jewish Family Service, 651-698-0767 or [email protected]. Questions: Susie Haim at 651-698-8874 x104 [email protected] Save the Dates: September 5th September 9th Back to school night First Day of Sunday School 4:30 PM-Toddler-6th Grade Pancake Breakfast 6:30 PM-7th-10th Grade Confirmation Class Auction & Raffle

5 2nd Annual Annual BBQ — Save the Date! The 7th Annual Temple of Aaron Read & Rock PJ Congregational BBQ will be held on Sunday August 12, 2012, from 1 to 4 Library Concert p.m., rain or shine. The location will be the north parking lot adjacent to Raskas This year's headliner: Road (Hartford Ave). The menu will include hamburgers, hot dogs, Boca Sheldon Low burgers, chips, baked beans, roasted 10 a.m., Sunday, August 12 corn and watermelon. Beverages will be Minnesota Children's Museum provided. The laws of Kashrut will be observed. Prices will be $10 per adult, Ten 7th Street W, St. Paul $5 for each child 5-12 years old, with a Sign up today maximum of $30 per family (immediate The cost is $18 per family (up to families of 6.) family members). The event will be No one will be turned away if unable to pay. Along with the concert you’ll receive free ad- sponsored by the Temple of Aaron mission to the Minnesota Children’s Museum on the day of the concert and an exclu- Men’s Club. Please RSVP with payment sive discount on a one year family membership if purchased that day. to the Temple of Aaron Men’s Club, 616 Purchase tickets by Wednesday, August 1: S. Mississippi River Blvd, St. Paul, MN Call 952-546-0616 55116-1099. Contact Terry Zien at

The concert is sponsored by your local PJ Library through the Jewish (651) 452-4465 or [email protected] if you Federation of Greater St. Paul, Jewish Family and Children's Service of have any questions. Minneapolis and the Minneapolis Jewish Federation, along with Adath Jeshurun Congregation's Gan Shelanu, Amos and Celia Heilicher Min- neapolis Jewish Day School, Bet Shalom's Shalom Yeladim Preschool, Beth El Synagogue's Aleph School, Beth Jacob Congregation, Jewish Community Center of Greater St. Paul, Mount Zion Temple's Parents and Tots Group, Sabes JCC Early Childhood Center, Talmud Torah of St. Paul, Temple Israel Early Childhood Development Center and Temple of Aaron. Gulner Strengthens Staff

— continued from page 1 — USY 60th Celebration Twin Cities Update combination propelled growth of EMTZA It’s time to double the fun! The USY60 transformative programs, including and we look forward to him continuing celebration in the Twin Cities will take regional conventions, summer programs this model of teen development at the place on Sunday, October such as USY on Wheels Temple of Aaron. Mark is a member of 14, 2012. and Israel Pilgrimage, and the JYDA (Jewish Youth Director Nativ, a yearlong program The four Conservative Association) and hopes to take a in Israel for recent high synagogues in Minnesota’s leadership role within that organization school graduates. in the near future. Through an effective Twin Cities — Adath Jeshurun Congregation, We are grateful for the marketing campaign that Mark both Beth El Synagogue, the involvement and developed and implemented, EMTZA Temple of Aaron and Beth dedication of our event co- region has grown into one of the Jacob — are all part of this chairs and committee and strongest regions in the country showing USY 60th anniversary look forward to the an increase in participation at regional celebration. By honoring festivities. To purchase conventions and membership in the our past and celebrating our future, the tickets, place a journal ad or make a national organization throughout his funds raised will give more of our youth donation, please visit www.usy60.org. time there. the opportunity to participate in USY’s Mark has a passion for Jewish education and the Temple of Aaron family. His strong connection with the Get Involved with a Home! community at the Temple along with the Temple of Aaron’s Social Action community as a whole will only go to AV BANNER: In memory of Rose and strengthen our congregation. The Committee presents the 10th Isadore Marsh by children Jack anniversary of Building for Habitat for knowledge, experience, dedication, Marsh, Herbert Marsh, Elizabeth and interpersonal skills that Mark will Humanity with Interfaith Builders. Aug. Baum, and Helen and Roland Felix. 13-17 and Aug. 20-25 in St Paul at 803 bring to the teen programs and Titled “Z’chor” (remember) the ban- marketing at the Temple will serve our Lawson Ave E. Anyone interested should ner commemorates Tisha B’Av. call Susan Flynn at 651-683-0706 or congregation well and further our email [email protected] or mission to energetically enrich and Alexandria Ganzel, serve the diverse spiritual, emotional [email protected]. No experience and social needs of our members necessary! All 16 yrs old and older through both traditional and innovative welcome!! approaches to our Jewish heritage. 6 Jewish Organizations Affiliate ATTENTION TEMPLE OF AARON FAMILIES! to Strengthen Economic and WE HAVE A QUESTION…. Social Policy Agenda

Jewish Community Action in St. Paul and Jews United for Justice in Washington, Everyone is cordially DC have affiliated with Bend the Arc, which has offices in New York, Los invited to join us as Angeles, San Francisco, Washington, we celebrate Philadelphia and Boston.

Shabbat together The three organizations each have a as a community. history of organizing Jews within their respective communities in support of Dinner begins at better wages, affordable housing, workers’ rights, marriage equality, anti- 6:30 PM followed bias and fair immigration laws. By by a youth-led Erev affiliating, the organizations will strengthen their ability to support each Shabbat Live service other in local campaigns and engage at 8:00 PM. the Jewish community nationally in pursuit of domestic policy goals.

“JCA is looking forward to the opportunity to learn from our partners, Friday, share our best practices and work together on national campaigns” said September 14, 2012 ***Actual Cost: $12 Vic Rosenthal, Executive Director of per person JCA. “We can use the lessons of local Questions? campaigns to move a progressive Minimum $5 agenda at the national level. Through Susie Haim organizing, training and collaboration, Administrative Assistant per person JCA is excited to build a more powerful Jewish voice for economic, social and [email protected] Donations welcome racial justice.” 651-698-8874 ext. 104 “The decision to affiliate expresses our organizations’ commitment to act in ***To help make meals affordable to all members, we have a new pricing plan. We ask that everyone pay at least the mini- concert in growing the American Jewish mum amount ($5) but list the actual cost for each meal ($12), and encourage all who can to pay that. We also accept dona- economic and social justice movement tions to help make up the difference. It is our intention that this helps make everyone feel welcome at the Temple of Aaron. of which we are part,” said Rosenthal. “It’s no accident that each of our organizations has a commitment to Please return this portion to the Temple of Aaron office by working across lines of race, class and September 5, 2012. Make checks payable to Temple of Aaron. faith to make our communities better

RSVP by September 5th by sending form to Temple of Aaron. places to live and to help hold America Attention: “Got Shabbat,” 616 Mississippi River Blvd, St. Paul, MN 55116 to its promise. Through this new partnership we will learn from each other’s experience, collaborate in Family Name: ______developing and executing effective strategies that further our goals, work Phone Number: ______together on campaigns, share programs and organizing methods, and fundraise E-mail:______together, as appropriate.”

Vegetarians (#) ______As part of the affiliation, Jews United for Justice and JCA will nominate members Number of Attendees: ____ X (Amount) $______= $______to Bend the Arc’s board.

Donation Amount: $______

TOTAL AMOUNT: $ ______7 21st Century Cemetery Keruv Committee Rolls Out Member Questionnaire

Monuments/Markers As a part of its continuing effort to build membership participation at Temple of Jews have a custom of marking a grave Aaron, the Keruv (“Building Participation”) committee has begun the process of intro- with a monument (upright headstone) or ducing its Member Interest and Involvement Opportunity Assessment to the mem- marker (lies on the ground). The memo- bers. The assessment is specifically designed to enable congregation leadership and rial tends to have English and Hebrew clergy to develop programs of interest to members as well as to more effectively en- identifying basic background informa- gage members in the activities of the synagogue. It will also give members a much tion. Many families also add a Jewish more up-to-date and substantive overview of needs and opportunities for volunteer- symbol which is laser-etched or sand- ism that exist at the Temple. blasted on the stone. The immediate goal of the committee is to have each member (of Bar/Bat Mitzvah Most people install the memorial near age or older) complete and return the assessment to the Temple office (if using “hard the first yahrzeit signifying the one year copy”) or via email to either Ken Agranoff (at [email protected] ) or to anniversary for death of a loved one. Dave Rosner, chair of the committee (at [email protected] ) if attached to an Please contact Norman Taple at 612- email. Watch for the link to the questionnaire in the weekly electronic newsletter or 508-7795 or [email protected] feel free to pick up printed copies of the assessment at the Temple. with all of your questions. He is the President of Katzman Monument Com- Long term, it is the hope of the committee to make questionnaires an integral part of pany which is dedicated to convenience each members online profile. The ultimate goal is to give each member/family se- and unparalleled customer service. You cured access through the internet to their Temple of Aaron membership profile, of can visit their website to see options. which the assessment will be a part. This will enable members to update their per- Katzman also has interactive memorials sonal information and the assessment form as changes occur in their lives to allow designed to tell the story of a loved one clergy and laic leadership to most effectively meet the needs of its members. to future generations. A “QR” code is If you have any questions, or, if as the result of completing the assessment, prompted added to the stone and any smartphone you to consider getting involved in a specific volunteer activity at Temple of Aaron, or tablet can activate the memorial. please call Dave Rosner at 651-686-0895 evenings and Sundays. He’ll be pleased to Another option is a Katzman representa- talk with you. tive will meet you to help with the pur- chase.

Hugh Gitlin – 2012 Ner Tamid Award Honoree admits that he has learned to install sheetrock.) This year, Hugh also helped staff the Nature Valley Grand Prix – which — continued from page 1 — raised money for Children’s Lighthouse, the first children’s hospice in the Midwest. Rabbi” program. The “Dinner” program remains a passion of In Hugh’s opinion, no non-profit can survive without volunteers. his as he continues to schedule and organize dinners. There He pointed out that paid staff can only do so much and that have been eight or nine in the last two years and, with addition every “non-profit” needs a base of volunteers to extend and of our new Assistant Rabbi, Jeremy Fine, to the Temple of support the mission of the organization. He views religious Aaron pulpit, Hugh has indicated a desire to add dates and organizations as the largest sector of non-profits in America, sports-oriented restaurants to the schedule. Hugh also has and feels that without volunteers, the synagogue can’t survive undertaken a fund raising project with the stated goal of – which is why he volunteers. Hugh enthusiastically points out having a new bike rack installed here at the Temple by the fall. that there are opportunities to volunteer at Temple of Aaron for Among other activities that Hugh is involved in here at Temple almost every age group – whether as a greeter at a Friday of Aaron includes being a frequent greeter at Friday night and night or Saturday morning service, helping USY on one of their Saturday morning services and, though he is paid a minimal many programs, working as an usher, and more. He urges stipend for this activity, he has worked for the religious school people to just inquire. for the past 10 years directing traffic on both Wednesdays and Long term, he admits that he can see the day when he’ll be Sundays as he watches out for the well-being of our children. helping in the office to put stickers on the Aaronian, but feels Hugh’s perspective on this position is very interesting as he that is a long way off. He feels that volunteerism keeps you pointed out that the first incoming class that he “directed” was young and active. His parents (Barbara and Neil Gitlin) set the confirmed this year, and that as a regular Saturday morning examples for him and he continues to admire his father’s service attendee, he has really enjoyed the opportunity to see efforts at Sholom Home for their “Happy Hour” and his how each child as grown and matured from the time he first mother's previous stints as president of the Temple of Aaron met them as incoming students. Sisterhood and Sholom Auxiliary. Hugh’s volunteerism doesn’t stop with Temple of Aaron. This While this year’s Ner Tamid nominee may not have the year, he was the chair of the Twin Cities Bicycling Club annual longevity of some of our previous winners, there is no question Watermelon Ride fundraising event which took place on the as to the on-going commitment to volunteering to Temple of 4th of July. He also participates annually in the MN MS TRAM – Aaron that Hugh continues to display on a weekly basis. “The Ride Across MN” to support the Multiple Sclerosis Please save the evening of September 8 and join the Society. In addition, Hugh has worked on the Habitat 500 bike congregation as we honor Hugh. event and has volunteered to work with Habitat for Humanity a number of times over the past years (during which he proudly 8 B’nai Mitzvah

Leo Lerner, son of Adam Lerner and Wang Ping, will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah on August 10 and 11, 2012. Leo is in eighth grade at Highland Middle School, where he participates in baseball and hockey. He also enjoys reading, video games, music, travel and playing with his dog, Percy. Leo has designated the Animal Humane Society for his tzedaka contribution. Oneg Shabbat refreshments will be sponsored by Leo’s aunt and uncle, Mia and Raul Posada. Kiddush will be sponsored by Leo’s father, Adam Lerner. Adam’s grandparents, Harry and Sandy Lerner, will be sponsoring the Friday night dinner.

Leo Lerner

Erika Kuretsky, daughter of David and Laurie Kuretsky, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on August 17 and 18, 2012. Erika is in eighth grade at Friendly Hills Middle School, where she participates in fast pitch softball and gymnastics. Erika enjoys horseback riding and spending time with her family. She also enjoys taking care of her two rescued Dobermans, Holly and Brutus. Erika is a member of Temple of Aaron Kadima. Erika has designated the Animal Humane Society for her tzedaka contribution. Oneg Shabbat and Kiddush refreshments will be sponsored by Erika’s grandparents, Howard and Elaine Kuretsky, and Joe and Karen Zimlich.

Erika Kuretsky

Rachel Bloom, daughter of Marilyn and Stuart Bloom, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on August 24 and 25, 2012. Rachel is entering the eighth grade at Dakota Hills Middle School, where she participates in the band. Rachel also enjoys attending Herzl Camp and hanging out with friends. She is a member of Temple of Aaron Kadima. Rachel has designated the Tubman Center for her tzedaka contribution. Oneg Shabbat and Kiddush refreshments will be sponsored by Rachel’s parents, Marilyn and Stuart Bloom, and her grandmother, Charlotte Rubenstein.

Rachel Bloom

Samantha Gouette, daughter of Stephanie Gouette and Steven Gouette, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on August 31 and September 1, 2012. Sami is in seventh grade at Falcon Ridge Middle School, where she participates in band. She also enjoys hanging out with her friends and participating in dance, where she helps to teach the younger kids. Sami is a member of Temple of Aaron Kadima. Sami has designated the Minnesota Zoo for her tzedaka contribution. Oneg Shabbat and Kiddush refreshments will be sponsored by Sami’s grandparents, Linda and Barry Gersick, her great-grandmother, Rose Goldsmith, and her great-grandparents, Florence and Al Gersick. Samantha Gouette

9 תודה רבה Thank You Todah Rabah Thank you (todah rabah) to those listed below who supported our Yahrzeit Fund in memory of loved ones with donations of $10 or more June 2012 Sivan-Tammuz 5772 Agranoff, Betty & family Katz, Chelle & Leon Pieser, Ben Allen, Jeffrey & Carol Khaskin, Iosif Pogoler, Andrew Antokolskaya, Zinaida Klein, Marion & E. Gary Raskin, Maria Baldinger, Estelle Kloner, Louise Rosner, Sue & Dave Barenbaum, Bettie Knurenko, Izabella Rubin, Paula Baum, Maryam Krugman, Faina Sadoff, Ruth Beckman, Jerry Kurnow, Jeanette & sons Savage, Edith Berke, Beryl & family Kushnir, Rozaliya Schaffer, Michael Binder, Jay Lane, Harriet & Miles Schneider, Margie & Bart Bloomfield, Leon Leibman, Jack Schumeister, Bloomfield, Catherine Lerman, Frank Ruth Ann & Dick

Calmenson, Beverly Lerman, Bill & Mary Schwartz, Jerry & Sue Our deep and sincere Chauss, Barbara & Bernie Levey, Sylvia Shaller, Michelle & Steven sympathy to the families Eisenstadt, Larry & Linda Levitt, Arthur & Beatrice Shaller, Rossy Eisenstadt, Samuel Libman, Cary Shear, Isabelle & Jerry of the following members Feldman, Kayleen Lifson, Helen & Ron Shear, Gerald & Isabelle who have passed away Fiedelman, Eileen Sweet Mack, Ellen & Tom Bates Shear, Bert Fridman, Alla & Vladimir Marver, John & Jeannie Simes, Josephine & Hy Harold Schenker Geller-Wollstein, Judy Marvy, Bob & Florie Simon, Jerome & Yetta Robert Goldberger Glickson, James Meerovich, Gedaly Skadron, Nancy Godes, Barb & Steve Meltzer, Rose Smith, Marilyn Goldberg, Sharleen Michaels, Noreen Smookler, Rick & Diane Goldetsky, Celia Mogol, Leo Stillman, Tom & Sue Goldman, Arnold Mogol, Noralee Strickon, Beryl Goldman, Irene Mogol, Marc Swartz, Helen & Don Gordon, Frank & Cookie Netzman, Steve Tillipman, Pearl .Grifman, Sandra Noun, Joan Tragar, C.A תודה רבה Gurstelle, Alice Oleisky, Esther Udodovsky, Mira & family . . . to Betty Agranoff, Burt Katz and Hirsekorn, Frank & Barbara Paletz, Jim, Esther, Usem, Mary & Lynn Mandle Anita Holland Ernst for helping label Jerson, Francine & Sid Steven & Lauren Vinnik, Val & Luda over 1,000 July Aaronions keeping all Kamin, Evelyn Paper, Steve Volodarskaya, Klara of our members fully informed. Kaminsky, Beverly Patterson, Esther Vysotsky, Alla & Feliks Gak . . . to Golden Kepah readers on Kaplan, Vicky Pawson, Beverly Warren, Mel Shabbat: Andy Miller, Anne Balto, Kaplan, Harvey Peker, Busya Weinberg, Idele Brandon Krisko, Michaella Zien, and Liza Sivriver. . . . to Paul Najlis for taking professional clergy/staff photos to Cemetery Planning Is Crucial Membership Is Powerful update our website and marketing Our well-maintained cemetery is located Young Adults from 22 to 30 rarely join materials. in Roseville. We sell graves to members but enjoy attending with family and . . . to Gabbaim and Ozrim on each and non-members thus making it community on High Holydays. Parents or Shabbat. possible for extended families to be in grandparents can create a membership . . . to Shabbat greeters making our the same cemetery. In addition, we have for free by providing basic information community a more welcoming place. a mixed faith section solely reserved for like mailing address, cell phone, and . . . to Harlan Stern and Hugh Gitlin for members. Please contact Executive email address. Adults 31 to 39 periodi- BBQ dinner for USY on Wheels. Director Ken Agranoff at 651-698-8874, cally delay membership. Parents and ext. 106 and schedule a 15 minute grandparents can help us recruit the meeting to explore your cemetery young adults by providing a cell number options. Be prudent and plan ahead. or email address. Please send the info to [email protected] or call 651-698-8874. Rabbi Jeremy Fine and Joshua Fineblum have started re-energizing programming for people ages 22 to 39 and we need contact information so people can sample the 10 new opportunities. SISTERHOOD GIFT SHOP Sisterhood News 651-699-9192

Community Service Project - Non-Prescription Reading Glasses/Cheaters: Need a Sale little help reading the siddur and announcements during services? Problem solved! We are collecting reading glasses for use at Temple. All strengths needed and you Now - Sept 9! may drop them off in the Sisterhood Gift Shop. Questions, call Susan Flynn (651-683- 0706). Regular & Sale * * * * Book Club - The Book Club meets on the third Sunday of the month at The Highland Merchandise Café and Bakery in Highland Park at 10 am. Upcoming books: Aug. 19 - The Woman Who Heard Color by Kelly Jones; Sept. 16 - The Hare with Amber Eyes by Edmund de Waal. Call Teddy Gerr for more info (651-405-6658). Discount

* * * * 20% Women’s Shelter Donations - Needed: new, unopened toiletries to be donated to BOOKS 10% Discount local women’s shelters. They can be dropped off in the Temple Gift Shop. Needed now are twin-size sheets. New, unopened cosmetics also will be distributed to the No Discount on homeless. Help out our local community and give someone a lift with these easy, inexpensive donations. Questions, call Alexandria Ganzel (651-490-7684) or Susan Mezzuzah Parchments Flynn (651-683-0706). * * * * Open Hours: Building Fund Cards - Beautiful cards for every occasion are only a phone call away. Sunday 9-Noon Pick up the phone and show someone you care by sending one of these lovely cards. Tuesday 10-2 All funds raised by the use of these cards go directly to benefit our beautiful building. Wednesday 10-1 To purchase our cards, call Sis Goren (651-686-0425) or Susan Kushner (651-454- By Appointment Call: 8336). For billing questions, call Betty Agranoff (651-698-8275). Marcia Taple, 651-688-3030 * * * * Food Shelf - This ongoing project serves our community year round. Donate food items at any time by dropping them off in the cart located in our coat room. Monetary donations will also be accepted by sending a check, payable to Temple of Aaron Food by August 5, payable to Temple of Aaron Shelf, to Harriet Levy, 1826 Merlot Curve, Eagan, MN 55122. For more info, call Sisterhood, to Shari Lowenthal, 1582 Harriet Levy (651-454-6829). Hollywood Ct., Falcon Heights, MN * * * * 55108. Indicate how you would like Gift Shop - Find all of your Judaica needs at The Temple of Aaron Sisterhood Gift your name to appear in the Aaronion. Shop. Jillbeads, contemporary fashion jewelry, are now available in the gift shop. Questions, call Marcia Taple (651-688- Check out these new products at www.jillbeads.com. The shop carries Michael Aram, 3030). Gary Rosenthal and Tamara Baskin and some new Badash crystal. There are items * * * * for Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, weddings, graduations, confirmations and any other special Happenings/Entertainment Book occasion. Inventory is constantly changing and if you can’t get to the Gift Shop during Fundraiser - Books are available in the regular hours, arrangements can be made for you at other times (call Marcia Taple at Sisterhood Gift Shop for $30. Get 651-688-3030). Not sure what to purchase for that special someone? Gift Shop gift discounts on food, hotels, films, shops cards are always available. We also have a Bar/Bat Mitzvah & Bridal Registry to make and more. Call Paula Schraber (651- your shopping easy. Summer Sale (today - Sept. 9) — all merchandise 20% off regular and sale prices. (Exceptions — books are 10% off and no discount for mezuzah 454-2708) for more info. parchments.) Summer Hours: Sundays 9 am - noon; Tuesdays 10 am - 2 pm; * * * * Wednesdays 10 am - 1 pm. For more info, call the Gift Shop (651-699-9192). September Opening Program - Dinner & * * * * Magic - Watch for more info to come. Remember that new members are Membership Renewal - You should have received your Sisterhood renewal envelope invited to this opening Sisterhood in Temple of Aaron’s June billing statement. If you did not receive a billing statement, call Linda Eisenstadt (651-454-6042). Questions about Sisterhood memberships? program as our guests at no charge. What does Sisterhood do? Call Roxanne Portnoy (612-334-2725). * * * * * * * * Arts & Crafts Show - Many, many thanks to Margie Schneider and all of her Rosh Hashanah Fundraiser - Only a few days left - Wish your Temple of Aaron family a volunteers who made this event a Shanah Tovah Tikatevu for 5773 in the September Aaronion. Send your $10 check success!! 11 Blindness at the International Olympic Games

By Dr. Steven Derfler referenced the murdered athletes but praised the strength of the Olympic Every four years, the world comes movement. together to share in the excitement of universal athletic competition and For a wide variety of reasons, a portion camaraderie. As the Olympic creed of the international community has suggests, “The Olympic ideal is the chosen athletic events, including the premise that individuals, not countries, Olympic Games, to vilify Jewish athletes compete against each other in sport… and the State of Israel. The context peaceful competition without the appears to the continued rise of anti- burden of politics, religion or racism. Semitism in the late 20th and 21st The most important thing in the Olympic Century and the constant uphill battle Games is not to win but to take part, At 4:30 am on 5 September, 1972, as that the State of Israel has faced since just as the most important thing in life is the members of the Israeli Olympic its birth to legitimately be recognized in not the triumph but the struggle. The team slept, eight tracksuit-clad the international community. essential thing is not to have conquered members of Black September carrying but to have fought well.” The games are duffel bags loaded with AKM assault an extraordinary international venue, rifles, Tokarev pistols, and grenades witnessed by millions around the world. scaled a two-meter chain-link fence with the assistance of unsuspecting athletes who were also sneaking into the Olympic Village. Once inside, they used stolen keys to enter two apartments being used by the Israeli team at 31 Connollystraße.

On 5 September, Golda Meir, Prime Minister of Israel, appealed to other countries to “save our citizens and condemn the unspeakable criminal acts committed.” The bravery of one of the most influential peacemakers in the Arab world, King Hussein of Jordan, would be the only leader of an Arab country to publicly denounce the Olympic attack — calling it a “savage crime against civilization... perpetrated by sick minds.”

By early morning the following day, a terribly planned rescue attempt by the German police would leave eleven members of the Israeli team dead. Jim However, as is the case with everything McKay, the stellar sports broadcaster involving human nature, politics would would emotionally report the tragic continually intrude into the Olympic An international educational news to the world — he would say, arena. Forty years ago, these noble “When I was a kid, my father used to consultant, public speaker, games and their peaceful intention say ‘Our greatest hopes and our worst archaeologist, historian, researcher, were shattered through a heinous act of fears are seldom realized.’ Our worst teacher and writer, Dr. Derfler has terror and violence. The 1972 Munich fears have been realized tonight. been uncovering the histories of Olympic Games venue would be enough They’ve now said that there were eleven Ancient Civilizations for 35 years. to affect the psyche of Jewish athletes hostages. Two were killed in their rooms competing from around the world; and Tracing the development of yesterday morning, nine were killed at weigh heavily on those Jewish athletes western religions from their roots in the airport tonight. They’re all gone.” representing the State of Israel which the Middle East and Eastern would eventually rise from the ashes of Mediterranean countries, Dr. Derfler On 6 September, a memorial service the Nazi Final Solution. brings insight to current political was attended by 80,000 spectators and

3,000 athletes in the Olympic Stadium. and social events, bridging the past

IOC President Avery Brundage barely with the future to promote greater understanding between people from different faiths and walks of life. 12 Social Justice - A Volunteer Committee

Jewish Community Action joins “Our Vote, Our Future” Coalition, led by Mondale, Carlson Vote No on the Photo ID Amendment on November 6th

This November, we will be asked to vote on an important change to our state’s constitution: the “Photo ID amendment.” If it passes, this amendment would require every voter to bring “valid government-issued photographic identification” with them to the polls in order to be allowed to vote. This is an expensive, unnecessary and extreme overhaul of an elections system that isn’t broken, and is, in fact, considered to be one of the best systems in the nation. The law would put in place expensive requirements for local governments, leading to cuts in services or higher property taxes, and it would place unfair hurdles in front of seniors and active duty solders’ ability to vote. The amendment would also end Election Day Registration (Same Day Registration) On Sunday, July 15, members of the as we know it. Social Justice Committee manned their cell phones at Temple of Aaron Although proponents of the amendment claim that it was written to prevent to talk to fellow congregants regarding voter fraud, the truth is that voter fraud is not a problem in our state. There have the upcoming Marriage Amendment. been no instances of voter impersonation in Minnesota, which is the only form Volunteers had conversations with our of fraud that would be addressed by the new law if the amendment passes. members to make them aware of the Minnesota has one of the highest voter turnout rates in the country and is a amendment and asked them standard bearer of election integrity. questions as to where they stand on I recently had a conversation with an older woman who, much like myself, had the issue. at first seen the amendment as a common sense measure. She told me, The upcoming November election will however, that she had decided to vote against it when she realized that it would include a proposed constitutional prevent a close friend from voting. Her friend lives in an assisted living facility, amendment concerning the definition can no longer drive and does not have a valid license. She also lacks access to of marriage. The Minnesota the transportation she would need to get a new ID card. This woman is just one Rabbinical Assembly, putting the among many who would be impacted by the amendment – students, men and matter in a Jewish context, has issued women serving overseas, home bound adults, and many others would also be a statement in opposition to the affected. proposed amendment and is Our current voting system works. Time and again we’ve managed to lead the encouraging their constituencies to nation in voter participation, with zero cases of voter impersonation. The last “vote no.” Rabbi Shavit-Lonstein is a thing we need is an overhaul of our entire voting system, especially one that member of the MRA and voted in would cost us millions every election cycle and place hurdles in front of our own support of the MRA statement and friends and family members’ voting rights. We should be proud of the great our Temple of Aaron Board has system we have in place – I hope you will join me in voting NO to protect it. reaffirmed this.

TIME IS RUNNING OUT!!! HABITAT NEEDS VOLUNTEERS!!!

Sign up NOW to join Temple of Aaron volunteers this August as we build a house for Habitat for Humanity. The dates are Aug. 13-17 and 20-24. There are still some times open. Invite a friend and e-mail or call Susan Flynn or Alexandria Ganzel to reserve your day. We still need food hosts as well. If you can’t work a whole day, then please join with your organization or friends and bringing food for 20-25 volunteers from 11:30-1:00 PM. If you just can’t see yourself climbing ladders, we need site hosts to check-in volunteers and oversee their care during the course of the day – this is just as important as building! Alexandria Ganzel hard at Contact us today and see what all the fun is about — Susan: [email protected] or work at last year’s build. 651-683-0706; Alexandria: [email protected]

13 Temple of Aaron Calendar of Events August 2012 Av - Elul 5772

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 2 3 4 7:30 am Minyan 7:30 am Minyan 7:30 am Minyan 8 am No Coffee w/Rashi For more information on these and other events and programs, please visit our website at 6 pm Minyan 9 am Service 6 pm Minyan 6:30 pm Talmud Class 8 pm Service www.templeofaaron.org 7:30 pm Bible Class 6 pm Minyan Candlelighting 8:16 pm

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 9 am Minyan, 7:30 am Minyan 7:30 am Minyan 7:30 am Minyan 7:30 am Minyan 7:30 am Minyan 8 am Coffee w/Rashi Men’s Club Breakfast 6 pm Minyan 6 pm Prayers in PJs 9 am Service-Leo Lerner Bar 6 pm Minyan 6 pm Minyan 6 pm Minyan 6:30 pm Talmud Class 8 pm Service Mitzvah 6 pm Minyan 7:30 pm Bible Class Leo Lerner Bar Mitzvah 7 pm Bldg. Closes 7 pm Bldg. Closes Candlelighting 8:06 pm 6 pm Minyan

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 9 am Minyan, 7:30 am Minyan 7:30 am Minyan 7:30 am Minyan 7:30 am Minyan 7:30 am Minyan 8 am Coffee w/Rashi Men’s Club Breakfast 6 pm Minyan 9 am Service-Erika 1 pm Annual BBQ 6 pm Minyan 6 pm Minyan 6 pm Minyan 6:30 pm Talmud Class 8 pm Service– ESL Kuretsky Bat Mitzvah 6 pm Minyan 6:30 pm Book Club 7:30 pm Bible Class Erika Kuretsky 7 pm Bldg. Closes 8 pm Bldg. Closes Bat Mitzvah 6 pm Minyan Candlelighting 7:55 pm

19 1 Elul 20 21 22 23 24 25 9 am Minyan, 7:30 am Minyan 7:30 am Minyan 7:30 am Minyan 7:30 am Minyan 7:30 am Minyan 8 am Coffee w/Rashi Men’s Club Breakfast 3 pm Tutor/Aide Meetings/ 3 pm Tutor/Aide Meetings/ 4 pm Teacher Meeting 6 pm Minyan 8 pm Service– ESL 9 am Service-Rachel Bloom Bat Book Club Interviews Interviews Toddler-Grade 6 6:30 pm Talmud Class Rachel Bloom Bat Mitzvah Mitzvah 6 pm Minyan 6 pm Minyan 6 pm Minyan 5:45 pm Teacher Meeting 7:30 pm Bible Class Candlelighting 7:43 pm 6 pm Minyan Grades 7-10 7 pm Bldg. Closes 7 pm Bldg. Closes 6 pm Minyan USY at LTI in St. Louis USY at LTI in St. Louis

26 27 28 29 30 31 Sept. 1 9 am Minyan, 7:30 am Minyan 7:30 am Minyan 7:30 am Minyan 7:30 am Minyan 7:30 am Minyan 9 am Service– Samantha Gouette Men’s Club Breakfast 6 pm Minyan 8 pm Service – ESL Bat Mitzvah 6 pm Minyan 6 pm Minyan 6 pm Minyan 6 pm Minyan 6:30 pm Talmud Class Samantha Gouette 7:00 pm Board of Directors Bat Mitzvah 6 pm Minyan USY at LTI in St. Louis 7 pm Bldg. Closes 7 pm Bldg. Closes 7:30 pm Bible Class Candlelighting 7:31 pm Temple of Aaron Congregation NONPROFIT ORG 616 S. Mississippi River Blvd. U.S. POSTAGE St. Paul, MN 55116-1099 PAID ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Permit No. 1328

Twin Cities MN

soon! coming information More TAP! on TAXY

house. Save the date for our next event August 2, 2012 for for 2012 2, August event next our for date the Save house.

(20’s and 30’s Generation X and Y) event at the Fineblums’ Fineblums’ the at event Y) and X Generation 30’s and (20’s Over 40 people came and participated at our first TAXY TAXY first our at participated and came people 40 Over