MARCH 2015 ADAR / NISAN 5775

CONTENTS RABBI’S MESSAGE RABBI’S A Memorable Israel MESSAGE 1 Moment Rabbi Daniel Cotzin Burg CANTOR’S CORNER 3 On a trip chock-full of provocative lessons and powerful CONGREGATION encounters, one of the more meaningful moments for me took LEARNING 4 place in, of all places, the lobby of our Tel Aviv hotel. Our group gathered Saturday evening to make our final Havdalah. The wind UPCOMING howling outside, we had little chance of recreating the scene from EVENTS 5* a week prior in Jerusalem when we had said farewell to Shabbat on a rooftop overlooking the King David Hotel and the Old City ISRAEL PHOTOS 7 Walls. Instead we formed a circle in the hotel lobby amidst the bustle of arriving and departing tourists and raised our voices CALENDARS 13 over a corny rendition of Besame Mucho, playing improbably on COMMUNITY ubiquitous overhead speakers. As the twisted candle struggled to NEWS 16 cast its light in the brightened lobby, and just before we sang the berachot, I asked participants to randomly select a slip of paper from CONTRIBUTIONS 18 an envelope and read one of their fellow travelers’ endings to the following sentence, “What I want my fellow Beth Am’ers to know FUND about Israel is...” Here’s what was said: DESIGNATION 23 • “This country is more than just a vacation: Interesting, inspiring, impressive, passionate, historic and compelling.” • “Israel is a beautifully vibrant country, and in spite of the world’s perception, Israel maintains a diverse society that perpetuates and challenges the ideology of ‘what makes a *throughout bulletin Jewish state.’” • “You don’t have to be Jewish to love Israel.” • “Vibrant country and beautiful peoples.” • “In great need of a peaceful resolution with its Palestinian neighbors.” • “It’s safer than Copenhagen.” • “Israel IS and that’s what’s most important, though not the US only thing that is important.” ON • “How important the trip we took is to understanding where we come from, who we are, and who we can and should be.” facebook.com/ • “Israel is a vibrant, dynamic country of people living their BethAmBaltimore dreams.” continued on page 6 BETH AM BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Rabbi Daniel Cotzin Burg Standing Committees Adult Ed Chair Elaine Weiss Officers Adult Ed Co-Chair Carla Rosenthal President Scott Zeger Finance Chair Alan Kopolow 1st Vice President Julie Gottlieb Finance Co-Chair Joe Wolfson 2nd Vice President Lynn Sassin House Chair Sam Polakoff Treasurer Alan Kopolow Kiddush Chair Meg Hyman Secretary Elaine Weiss Membership Chair Sharon Nathanson Membership Co-Chair Robin Katcoff Trustees through 2015 Religious Services Chair Joe Wolfson Alyson Bonavoglia Social Action Chair Arthur Shulman Eliza Feller Social Action Co-Chair Jackie Donowitz Cheri Levin Youth Education Chair David Lunken David Lunken Ad Hoc Committees Trustees through 2016 Annual Fund Honorary Chair Gil Sandler Neil Kahn Annual Fund Chair Ricky Fine Cindy Paradies Annual Fund Vice Chair Jim Jacobs Desiree Robinson Balt. Jewish Council Rep. Ben Rosenberg Jim Schwartz Beth Am Connection Joanne Katz Risa Jampel Trustees through 2017 BAYITT Chair Brian Ross David Demsky Congregant to Congregant Joyce Keating Risa Jampel Eutaw Place Ellen Kahan Zager Ashley Pressman Zager Naomi Rosner In, For and Of Lisa Akchin Maggi Gaines Past Presidents and Life Members Marketing Chair Ellen Spokes Past President Cy Smith Operations Co-Chair Ashley Pressman Past President Jack Lapides Operations Co-Chair David Demsky Honorary Life Member Lainy LeBow-Sachs Res. Hill Improvement Council Carol Shulman Honorary Life Member Efrem Potts

Office Hours Rabbi Daniel Cotzin Burg Tuesday-Thursday: 9:00-4:00 443.202.0912 (cell) (emergencies only, please) Friday: 9:00-3:00 [email protected]

Office Contact Extentions: Cantor Ira Greenstein Tel: 410.523.2446 / Fax: 410.523.1729 443.759.7807 (home) Extensions: Rabbi Daniel Burg - 14 [email protected] Rabbi Gludt - 15 Henry Feller, Exec. Dir. - 20 Rabbi Kelley Gludt, Director of Linda Small, Senior Staff and Congregational Learning Development Coordinator - 12 520.248.9541 (cell) Ralph Shaver, Finance Manager -18 [email protected] Norm Weinstein, Bookkeeper - 17 Marsha Blank, Educ. Admin - 16 Henry Feller, Executive Director Idella Crenshaw, Admin. Specialist and [email protected] Assistant to the Rabbi - 21 443.742.9654 (cell) (emergencies only, please) Nakia Davis, Front Office Coordinator - 11 Valerie Tracy, Marketing Coordinator- 10 Scott L. Zeger, Board President Sandy Winters, Ritual Coordinator: 410.868.7761 410-598-6397 [email protected]

Office E-mail: In case of an emergency, please contact: Email: [email protected] Henry Feller, Executive Director Web site: www.bethambaltimore.org 443.742.9654 (cell)

2 3 CANTOR’S CORNER Since When is Chocolate Persian? Cantor Ira Greenstein

As we begin March together, the holiday is not prominent in the territory reported to of Purim has arrived. It is impossible to resist have beeen controlled by King Ahasuerus. eating the three-cornered pastry treat, the However, what about Persia’s major “export” hamentasch. Since the term is Yiddish, and commodity (perhaps by camel in those that language was not yet spoken in the times), more than any other country in the Persia of Esther’s time (whenever that might world – the pistachio? have been), who knows what the pastry I have never encountered a pistachio would have been called. Besides, it is quite hamentasch. Perhaps you readers have. As a unclear even today whether the pastry is baker by hobby, I have set out to create a good symbolic for Haman’s hat, or his ears (the hamentasch filling incorporating pistachios, Hebrew version/translation), or the shape thus offering you an opportunity to attempt of the dice Haman possibly used in the something that may be authentically Persian. Purim tale, or even money - “tasch” actually Given how much filling I used for a 3” round means “pocket,” although it seems likely that pastry-size (before folding), this is enough the “tasch” in this case is not the container filling for about 18 pastries. but simply the dough’s function. I strongly suspect that Queen Esther was not noshing Ingredients: on hamentaschen in ancient Persia…but if we 3/4 cup shelled, unsalted pistachios stretch the imagination (and it takes a lot of 1/3 cup sugar stretching), what fillings MIGHT the royal 1/2 tsp. salt court have used? After all, if we are going to 3 tbsp. unsalted butter (or pareve be playful about the holiday, let’s have at this margarine) at room temperature one. 1 egg, beaten (divided) Some quick research shows that it is 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract likely that Esther’s hamentasch would have Your favorite hamentasch pastry recipe, been influenced not only by the sweet for approximately 2 dozen cookies foods of Persia itself, but of the 120 states Put the pistachios, sugar, and salt in a between Ethiopia and India comprising the food processor (with cutting blade) and Persian Empire, as depicted in the Book grind until the nuts are finely ground (some of Esther. If this is the case, then surely it small remaining nuggets are fine). Add butter is conceivable that poppy seed was used… (or margarine) and vanilla and pulse until indeed, in Yiddish, this would be “mohn- combined. Then add 1 tablespoon (only) taschen,” which is getting pretty close, of the egg and pulse until just combined, and poppies are definitely grown in the scraping the sides and bottom if needed. Set region. Fillings could include “stone fruit” aside (it can be prepared a day or so ahead of such as apricots, dates, or perhaps prunes. time, covered tightly, and refrigerated). Raspberry and cherry, yes. I am not very sure about chocolate filling, since chocolate continued on page 6

3 CONGREGATIONAL LEARNING “When Adar enters, joy increases.” (Ta’anit 29a) Rabbi Kelley Gludt

Welcome to the month of Purim, a time costumes, the carnival. A little sticky cotton of silliness, frivolity, games, costumes, special candy always proves good for the soul. treats and some serious drinking! Welcome But can it be this easy? At this difficult to that time of year when Jews proclaim to time for our people, here at home and one another, “Be happy! It’s Adar!” around the world, you may feel that this “Be happy!” Is this injunction a commandment to rejoice, to feel happy, commandment or a blessing? Is it a wish for proves unrealistic. So please remember that what we hope for ourselves, our families and Purim provides a message about finding our neighbors or a Jewish “have to?” Does balance, mixing the somber and the sublime, God really and truly expect to dictate our specifically to give us perspective. emotions and, if so, how in the world do we At times most dangerous, with the threat actually fulfill this directive? most pressing, we need Purim. We must This isn’t the first time that Judaism recall that we need not always despair, that commandeers our feelings. TheVa’ahavta our worst nightmares do not always come to tells us we must love God and on Shabbat pass, that Purim is the flip side of the coin. we are given no option but to rejoice. Purim reminds us to count blessings, to grab Clearly, Judaism takes no issue with such joy when we can, and to create moments dictates, so how do we go about meeting the of light and happiness. Our Sages teach expectation? How do we engender a feeling us that even when all of the other festivals of joy, especially when we might not want are abolished, Purim will remain (Midrash to? Is this even a fair thing to ask? Mishle 9:2). Why? Because sadness and Just like Shabbat, with its beautiful table, tzurus are part of every life, but we need extra-good food, flickering lights and peace, to remember to be aware of moments of Purim’s mitzvot are designed to bring on the blessing. joy. Take a gift of sweet treats to friends or Rabbi Ruth Adar (really) says, “Adar those who may be feeling a bit lonely and comes with a command to ‘increase joy.’ your heart will feel lighter. Give tzedakah and To do that, we must stay attuned to the do not forget to take a moment to savor the possibility of the sacred moment when feelings that come with making the world laughter breaks through tears, sun through a better place. Enjoy a festive meal - that clouds, beauty through the gray winter. If almost always works! Come to Beth Am, we are paying attention, we will be awake your home away from home, to listen to the for joy. Adar is the month to cultivate that Megillah being read and enjoy the spiel, the sacred skill in ourselves.”

4 5 CHILDCARE NOW AVAILABLE! Every Shabbat, for children SCHEDULE 18 months to 5 years old. March Calendar Begins at 10 am, with a snack Sunday, March 1: Lab at 11 am, followed by Wednesday, March 4: Lab, Purim Shabbat Yachad at 11:15 am Saturday, March 7: Shabbat Lab and (when scheduled). Havdalah Sleepover Sunday, March 8: Purim Carnival Generously sponsored by the Wednesday, March 11: Lab Alexander Grass Foundation. Saturday, March 14: Jr. Congregation Sunday, March 15: Lab Wednesday, March 18: Lab Sunday, March 22: Lab B’nai Mitzvah Class Wednesday, March 25: Lab Sunday, March 29: Lab

Sunday, March 29: Kadima / USY Chocolate Seder

SHABBAT YOUTH SERVICES Shabbat Yachad GOT SHABBAT? Saturdays at 11:15 am April 17 Combines familiar children’s Shabbat 5:45 pm at Beth Am songs with age appropriate sensory experiences. Every Saturday, except the Shabbat celebrations for first Saturday of the month, for newborns families with young children to kindergartners in the Chapel, begins Experience an enriching family- before Haftarah reading (unless there’s a friendly Shabbat celebration. The Bar or Bat Mitzvah, in which case it begins evening includes Tot Shabbat, a after candy throwing). full catered Shabbat dinner and Shabbat Lab activities for young children. Enjoy Saturday, March 7 at 10:45 am the opportunity to meet and A mix of traditional and innovative connect with other families and davening. First Saturday of every month the Jewish community. Families for children in kindergarten through fifth new to the area, interfaith families, grade in the Chapel. and families new to Shabbat Jr. Congregation observance are all welcome and Saturday, March 14 at 10:15 am encouraged to join in the fun! Calling all third, fourth, fifth and Fee: $25 per family sixth graders! Join Rabbi Burg for a participatory Shabbat Service which blends Register or learn more at traditional davening with upbeat music www.goo.gl/mYmIpn and engaging learning.

5 Rabbi Burg cont’d Cantor cont’d • “You cannot know Israel - its people, After preparing the filling, prepare its , its struggles - without hamentasch pastry of your choosing and experiencing it firsthand. Go! Go! Go!” thickness preference and cut into cookies. The moment was, in some ways, Place a portion of the filling in each before quintessential Israel, as existence in that folding; seal well. Use the remaining egg as country is so often about carving out moments a wash on the outside of each cookie… or of tranquility or even transcendence amidst not. The filling will expand a little, so don’t the bubbling din and complexity of life there. pack the filling too tight. Bake at 350 F° on And having read the statements, I chanted a lightly greased (or sprayed) cookie sheet the traditional introductory paragraph for about 18-20 minutes, until the cookies containing, as always, words from Megillat are lightly golden (timing will depend on Esther: “The Jews enjoyed light and gladness, the oven and the thickness of the pastry). joy and honor” (8:16). Then, as now, I add As a side note, this filling will also go great the traditional postscript to the verse, three in rugelach, rolled in breads (e.g., as an words that serve to remind us each week alternative to cinnamon raisin bread), as a that our people’s recorded is also an spread before toasting, or as a filling in other invitation to become part of the unfolding cakes and pastries. Thus, if you have too story: much, or have to force yourself to make a Ken t’hiyeh lanu. May we too enjoy such second batch or more, it should not go to blessings! waste. Enjoy! The Megillah is a diaspora tale. Modern Israel is, at its best, a fulfillment of an ancient yearning. Havdalah is about marking sacred time for Jews the world over. Purim Sameach. Am Yisrael Chai!

PRESIDENT APPOINTS NOMINATING COMMITTEE 2015 Please speak with the nominating committee with your ideas for officers, trustees and future leaders. Send your nominee recommendations to Jerry Doctrow: [email protected] Elections will take place at the Annual Meeting in June.

The Nominating Committee, appointed by, Beth Am President, Scott Zeger: Jerry Doctrow, Chair Bonnie Stainman, Co-Chair Jim Schwartz Evan Serpick and Octavia Shulman

6 7 ISRAEL PHOTOS right: Western Wall from left to right, Allan Krumholz, Tom Baker, Dan Chemers, Janine Armstrong, Betty Chemers, Phil Armstrong, Arna Desser, Francine Krumholz, Connie Baker, Brian Johnson, Lisa Garten, Alan Garten, Rabbi Daniel Burg

left: Lisa & Alan Garten in front of Robinson’s Arch, a monumental staircase which once stood at the Temple Mount.

right: The group on Masada, on 2015 the eastern edge of the Judaean Desert, overlooking the Dead Sea

left: The group at an overlook near Montefiore Windmill in Jerusalem

See Rabbi’s Message for more information about this wonderful trip to Israel last month.

7 PASSOVER SALE OF HAMETZ SCHEDULE Friday, April 3 7:30 am - Siyyum B’chorim Service for the First Born with light breakfast

Erev Passover - First Seder

Saturday, April 4 1st Day Passover 9:30 am - Kesher Service

A donation to the Rabbi’s Discretionary Second Seder Fund for the sale of hametz is appreciated. Form is due, no later Sunday, April 5 2nd Day Passover than 12 noon, Thursday, April 2. 9:30 am - Service Mail to: Beth Am, 2501 Eutaw Place Friday, April 10 Baltimore, MD 21217 7th Day Passover 9:30 am - Service Fax to: 410-523-1729 Saturday, April 11 I hereby authorize Rabbi Daniel Cotzin 8th Day Passover Burg or his designee to effect the 9:30 am - Service with Yizkor & sale of any and all hametz that I may Memorial Plaque Dedication have in my possession, in my home, at my place of business, or any other property that I own or control, as of 12 noon on Friday, April 3.

______Signature Date SHUKAN STORE ______OPEN SUNDAYS Printed Name Come browse our new merchandise Below is any address, (other than on Sundays during Lab School home), which is in my control and hours. We have new inventory of contains hametz: jewelry and Tzedakah boxes. We look forward to seeing you! ______If you cannot make it on Sundays, purchases can be made by ______contacting: Your hametz is available to you at Marcia Amith – 410-433-5582 9:21 pm on Saturday, April 11 an Bonnie Guralnick – 410-653-2380 hour after Pesah concludes. or Renee’ Feller – 410-602-2124

8 9 EUTAWMUSIC PLACE {at Beth Am} $20 MAR. 14/ 8:45 PM {DOORS 8:15} TIX & INFO EMILY HEARN W/LUKE BRINDLEY Emily’s first full-length album, Red Balloon was released in 2012. With carefully eclectic instrumentation and rich background vocals that beckon listeners to sing along, the 10-track album bears the beer. .ORG signature Emily Hearn stamp—quirky, fun and flirtatious, with a wine. dash of love had and lost. Her new album, Hourglass, is due to coffee. be released March 10. “With a hauntingly beautiful voice at only tea. 22-years-old, keep your eyes peeled, because we guarantee this name will be heard more and more as the buzz around her only homemade continues to heighten.”—Buzznet cookies. snacks. Luke Brindley has been obsessed with the guitar and writing songs 2501 EUTAW PL.for as long as he can remember. He married young, is an adoptive RESERVOIR HILLparent, and is the son of a preacher man. He toured a lot for a few years and put out a few records as Luke Brindley, the Brindley BALTIMORE. Brothers, and Native Run. Having never quite fit into nor cared 410-484-9110much about “the business” he’s making his own rules now. Living info at outside of DC, he runs Jammin Java in partnership with his brothers, eutawplace.orgone of the Top 100 Clubs In The World. Luke’s songs have a definite concentration on the lyrics, focusing on larger worldview questions such as, Why are we here? What are we supposed to be doing? {all ages welcome}What does it mean to know another person? To love someone? “Magical…an early contender for one the best albums of the year.” —The Washington Post EUTAWPLACE {ALL AGES WELCOME} BEER. WINE. COFFEE. TEA. HOMEMADE COOKIES.SNACKS. 2501 EUTAW PL. RESERVOIR HILL | 410-484-9110 | INFO AT EUTAWPLACE.ORG

9 SOCIAL ACTION Committee Meeting Thursday, March 12 at 7:30 pm

Location: Jackie Donowitz’s home Thursday, March 12 at 7:30 pm Wednesday, May 20 at 7:30 pm ALL ARE WELCOME! Bring your ENERGY and your PASSION and your THOUGHTS! We address issues relating to poverty, homelessness, domestic violence, environmental sustainability, literacy and more in the Reservoir Hill community and beyond at the home of Jackie Donowitz, [email protected]. Contact Arthur Shulman if you need a ride to the meeting, [email protected].

PURIM SCHEDULE

Megillah Reading Purim Carnival Wednesday, March 4 Sunday, March 8 • 6 pm - BYO dairy/fish dinner • 9 am - Morning Minyan • 6:45 pm - Maariv (Sanctuary) • 10 am - Family Megillah Reading • 7 pm - Megillah reading, • 10:30 am - 12 pm - Children’s Costume Parade will Purim Carnival take place between the first and second chapters of the Megillah reading. Purim Spiel (Purim Wars) to follow.

PURIM WARS Wednesday, March 4 - Immediately following the Megillah reading, aka past your bedtime! A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, an orphaned princess with big talent saved the plant Shoeshine from an evil vizier... It's the singing, dancing, extravaganza with harem girls, a masked , and a special appearance by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. May the Farsi be with you!

10 11 BAYITT - Beth Am Young Adult Initiative for Twenties and Thirties

March Second Fridays Passover Prep Fest Friday, March 13, 6:30pm at Beth Am Synagogue Following our vibrant service and delicious dinner, we’ll break into groups for some Passover learning with special guest teachers: Rabbi Daniel Burg, Cantor Ira Greenstein and Jews United for BAYITT Justice Director Molly Amster. E-mail [email protected] to RSVP.

Baltimore’s Second Annual Social Justice Seder Sunday, March 15, from 4 pm-6 pm Topic: A Focus on Environmental Justice and the Curtis Bay Incinerator - This event is open to EVERYONE! Held at Beth Am Synagogue in conjunction with BAYITT and other community groups. Registration information coming soon!

Post Passover Pizza Party Saturday, April 11, 8:30pm Enjoy pizza and drinks as we bid farewell to Passover together!

SANCTUARY SERVICES Our next Sanctuary Services will be March 7 Join the “Kiddush Krew” and help make our kiddush buffet extra enticing and delicious! Once a month, in preparation for our Sanctuary Shabbatot, we ask you to put your culinary skills to work by sharing with the congregation a recipe that no one will be able to resist. Your delectable donation will help Beth Am live up to its motto “Feels like Home.” Go to Sign Up Genius to sign up: goo.gl/KozzA0 or contact Meg Hyman: [email protected]

In the spirit of volunteerism, we would like to invite you to help clean up after Kiddush lunch.

Please join our unofficial clean up crew to make the transition quicker and cleaner than ever before. Make it a mitzvah! Thank you!

11 5775

ADAR

NISAN MUSICAL KABBALAT MUSICAL KABBALAT SHABBAT 27 March Friday, 6 pm - Services Please join Rabbi Daniel Burg, and guest Cantor Ira Greenstein musicians for a Musical Kabbalat Shabbat. Open to the community! 7 pm - Mediterranean dinner Adults - $16 6-12 yrs. - $10 Children Household maximum - $56 free! 5 and under are Children Please contact Nakia for space availability: 410.523.2446 or [email protected] KLEI KODESH

and Rabbi Kelley Rabbi Daniel Burg Rabbi Daniel Burg Rabbi Daniel Burg Rabbi Kelley Gludt Rabbi Kelley Gludt

(legal rulings) 3/17: 4/21: 5/19: teshuvot

learn LUNCH

&

Tuesdays, Noon - 1 pm Tuesdays, Spring schedule below:

Conservative

Discuss modern Jewish issues through Discuss modern Jewish issues through Please join Beth Am congregants and friends for Lunch Please join Beth Am congregants and Rabbi Kelley Gludt. Learn with Rabbi Daniel Burg welcome. Please bring a fish/dairy lunch. All are 2015 MARCH Karin Batterton’s Office Karin Batterton’s Coldwell Banker Brokerage Keys Village of Cross 38 Village Square MD 21210 Baltimore, 12 ADAR MARCH NISAN

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1 2 3 4 - Erev Purim 5 - Purim 6 7 9 am - Morning Minyan 4:15 pm - Lab 5:46 pm - Candle 8:45 am - Learning Minyan 9:30 am - Lab 6:00 pm - BYO lighting 9:30 am - Sanctuary Service dairy/fish dinner 10:45 am - Shabbat Lab 6:45 pm - Maariv 6 pm - Havdalah Sleepover 7:00 pm - Megillah reading Children’s Costume Parade Purim Spiel

8 - Daylight Savings Begins 9 10 11 12 13 14 4:15 pm - Lab 7:30 pm - Social 6:30 pm BAYITT 8:45 am - Torah Study 9 am - Morning Minyan 7 pm - BIG Jewish Action Commit- Second Fridays 9:30 am - Kesher Service 10 am - Family Megillah Ideas tee Meeting (off Passover Prep Fest 10:15 am - Jr. Congregation Reading premises) 6:53 pm - Candle 11:15 am - Shabbat Yachad 10:30 am - Purim Carnival lighting 8:45 pm - Eutaw Place 6 pm - New Member Dinner (off premises)

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 9 am - Morning Minyan 12 pm - Lunch and Spring Clothing Rosh Chodesh Rosh Chodesh 8:45 am - Torah Study 9:30 am - Lab Learn Drive Ends 7 pm - Candle 9:30 am - Kesher Service 4 pm - Baltimore’s Second 4:15 pm - Lab lighting 11:15 am - Shabbat Yachad Annual Social Justice Seder 7 pm - BIG Jewish Ideas

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 9 am - Morning Minyan 4:15 pm - Lab 6 pm - Klei Kodesh 8:45 am - Torah Study 9:30 am - Lab 7 pm - BIG Jewish 7:07 pm - Candle 9:30 am - Kesher Service Ideas lighting 11:15 am - Shabbat Yachad

29 30 31 9 am - Morning Minyan 9:30 am - Lab 2 pm - Kadima / USY - Choco- late Seder 14

JEWISH IDEAS IN MINYAN HISTORY, THOUGHT AND TEXT MORNING MINYAN is every Sunday at 9 am. We take an integrated and Beth Am needs you for Minyan! BIG conversant approach to Ten adult Jews are needed for a JEWISH these central Jewish ideas. Minyan - without it, people can’t Rabbi Burg will reprise the say kaddish. Pick your week to Fall’s course on seven new IDEAS dates. All are welcome! participate and speak to one of our Minyan Reading Coordinators: What does it mean PLEASE NOTE THE Zack Berger, Richard Bloom, David to think Jewishly? Schwartz, Annie Kaufman, Rachel DATE/TIME CHANGES. Weitzner and Robin Katcoff. What ideas has our tradition offered the world? SPRING DATES: Wednesdays at Beth Am Who are the thought 7-8:30 pm leaders in our history March 11, 18, 25 LEARNING MINYAN who have shaped and April 15, 22, 29 Shabbat, March 7 at 8:45 am in place of Torah Study disseminated these ideas? May 6 Learning Minyan is a blending of liturgical content and skill What is the canon of building. The first Saturday of each month, Learning Minyan will Jewish literature and what RSVP to focus on a different section of the Shabbat morning service. No distinguishes and unites [email protected] preparation required; just show up! these sacred texts?

NISAN 2015 APRIL IYAR 5775 NISAN APRIL IYAR

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1 2 3 4 4:15 pm - Lab 7:30 am - Siyyum First day Passover No BIG Jewish B’chorim Services 8:45 am - Learning Minyan Ideas for the First Born 9:30 am - Pesach Kesher with light breakfast Service

Erev Passover Second Seder First Seder

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Second day Passover Third day Passover Fourth day Passover Fifth day Passover Sixth day Passover Seventh day Eighth day Passover 9 am Morning Minyan No Lab Passover 8:45 am - Torah Study No Lab No BIG Jewish 9:30 am - Kesher Service with Ideas Yizkor & Memorial Plaque Dedication 11:15 am - Shabbat Yachad 8:30 pm - BAYITT - Post Pass- over Pizza Party

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 9 am - Morning Minyan 4:15 pm - Lab Yom Hashoah 5:45 pm - Got 8:45 am - Torah Study 9:30 am - Lab 7 pm - BIG Jewish Shabbat at Beth Am 9:30 am - Sanctuary Service - Ideas Teen Take Over 10:15 am - Jr. Congregation 11:15 am - Shabbat Yachad Evening Bat Mitzvah of Jilly Reck 9:15 pm - Eutaw Place

19 20 21 22 23 24 25 9 am - Morning Minyan 12 pm - Lunch and 4:15 pm - Lab Yom Ha’atzma’ut 8:45 am - Torah Study 9:30 am - Lab Learn 7 pm - BIG Jewish 9:30 am - Sanctuary Service 10 am - Building Blocks Family Ideas with Ellie Maza’s Bat Mitzvah Program 11:15 am - Shabbat Yachad

26 27 28 29 30 9 am - Morning Minyan 4:15 pm - Lab 9:30 am - Lab 7 pm - BIG Jewish 4 pm - Sages for the Ages Ideas speaker: Kurt Schmoke PRAYERS FOR HEALING Gail Wohlmuth (Lou) Ron Silberberg, friend of Robin & Jason Katcoff Aaron Rogat, friend of Roberta Greenstein (Cantor Ira Greenstein) Karen Weisberg, cousin of Cantor Ira Greenstein (Roberta) Judy Miller Scott Silverstine, cousin of Gail Wohlmuth (Lou) Rochelle Engamil, friend of Gail and Lou Wohlmuth Mike Hess, cousin of Lou Wohlmuth (Gail) Nancy Schechman, friend of Gail and Lou Wohlmuth Eliana Joy Matz, grandaughter of Judy Richter Audrey Stearns, mother of Maxwell Stearns (Vered) Ray Katz, mother of Joanne Katz (Scott Zeger) Burton Gold, father of Joanne Gold (Andrew Stern) Elizabeth Stern, mother of Andrew Stern (Joanne Gold) Alexa Moinkoff, grandaughter of Sharon Zamkoff Joel Balsham, friend of Lissa Rotundo Laurie Glassner Merle Sachs (Murray) Lottie Greene, mother of Meg Hyman Lenore Berman, mother of Janis Silverman (Jay) Alan Pressman (Ashley) Mike Steedman, brother of Linda Small Harry Adler, friend of Roberta and Cantor Ira Greenstein Ofra Shipman, cousin of Roberta Greenstein (Cantor Ira Greenstein) Donald Allen, father of Lisa Minick (Chris) Norma Gaines, grandmother of Emily Gaines Demsky (David) Steven Kraft, brother of Jim Kraft (Kristi Aho) Jerald Lipsch, brother of Harriet Goldman (Herb) Cyndi Lee Haaz, mother of Stephany Moonaz (Robert) Robin Leidner & Sue Martin, friends of Amy Davidoff & Steve Gore Hilda Coyne Vickie Dorf Fran Kanterman

RECENT DEATHS • Richard Schwartz, father of Diane Schwartz (Jim Maza) • Gertrude Edith Shear, mother of David Shear (Carol) • Jeffrey Weinstock, brother of Raellen Polan (John) and uncle of Sam Polakoff and Tony Polakoff • Louis M. Balk brother of Ida Gulin (Edward) and uncle of Joan Schoenfeld (Stuart) COMMUNITY NEWS

16 17 70+ BIRTHDAYS MAZEL TOV Happy Birthday! Congratulations! Michael Pearlman 1-Mar • Michael Salcman on the launch of David Fishman 9-Mar his new book, Poetry in Medicine, Muriel Friedman 12-Mar a unique collection of more than Lois Macht 12-Mar 200 poems on doctors, patients, Fred Barron 14-Mar illness and healing. Rodney Klein 14-Mar Ave Amith 16-Mar Norm Weinstein 17-Mar Hal Dwin 22-Mar NEW MEMBERS Stuart Fine 22-Mar Bob Hillman 23-Mar Stan Rodbell 23-Mar Welcome! David Goldstein 24-Mar Sharon Achinstein & David Norbrook Stuart Schoenfeld 24-Mar Maggie & Reed Cordish John Singer 24-Mar Jennifer Daks Laurie Glassner 26-Mar Laura Daks Nancy Kohn Rabin 27-Mar Rachel & Jerrel Duffy Roger Garfink 28-Mar Melissa & Mark Friendlich Liliane Katz 29-Mar Mira & Laurie Green Ron Shapiro 29-Mar Naomi Gubernick Gershon Efron 30-Mar Katie Kline & David Finkler Buzzy Hettleman 30-Mar Sharon Lack & Robert Hirsch Gladys Arak Freedman 31-Mar Gail & Bob Liss Tace Samet & Kevin Loeb Steve Snyder Susannah Wolf & Douglas Gauck 50+ ANNIVERSARIES Congratulations! JoAnn & Jack Fruchtman 29-Mar

A SPECIAL THANK YOU to Sarajane Greenfeld and Betty Seidel for their support Beth Am Chix showcase their rings after proofreading for Beth Am! the Ring Workshop with jeweler and congregant Shana Kroiz in February.

17 Thank you! JANUARY CONTRIBUTIONS Accessibility Fund • Laurie Glassner - in honor of Stanley Fine, on his special Bar • Bonnie & Stuart Stainman - in honor Mitzvah of Nancy & Richard Bloom, on their • Helene & Alan Goldberg - in honor wedding anniversary of Nancy & Richard Bloom, on their wedding anniversary BAYITT Fund • Eleanor & David Goldstein - in • Jeff Watcher - in appreciation memory of Celia Goldstein, his mother, on her yahrzeit Building Preservation & Ritual • Linda Himmelrich - in memory of Enhancement Fund Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, brother of • Eva Bazant & Rafael Coven - in Debbie Potts memory of Harry Coven on his • Roz & Nelson Hyman - in memory of yahrzeit; Betty Akchin, mother of Don Akchin; in honor of Ludmilla Coven on her in memory of Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, birthday brother of Debbie Potts; • Michele & Herbie Better - in honor of in honor of Sara Miller on her birthday Stanley Fine, on his birthday and Bar • Marcia & Robert Kargon - in memory Mitzvah anniversary of Inez Kargon, his mother, on her • Joan & Lenny Cohen - in hopes of a yahrzeit speedy recovery for Judy Miller • Joanne Katz & Scott Zeger - in • Emily Gaines Demsky & Dave Demsky memory of Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, in memory of Betty Akchin, mother of brother of Debbie Potts; Don Akchin; in memory of Debbie Katcoff, mother in memory of Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, of Jason Katcoff; brother of Debbie Potts in memory of Dorothy Zenilman, • Jeri Falk & Peter Fitz - in memory of mother of Jonathan Zenilman Betty Akchin, mother of Don Akchin • Lois & Alan Kopolow - in honor of • Miriam & Forrest Foss - in memory of Nancy & Richard Bloom, on their Betty Akchin, mother of Don Akchin; wedding anniversary; in memory of Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, in memory of Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, brother of Debbie Potts brother of Debbie Potts • Patricia Fradkin-Berman & Mike • Lainy LeBow-Sachs & Leonard Sachs Berman - in memory of Betty Akchin, in memory of Betty Akchin, mother of mother of Don Akchin Don Akchin • Julie Frein - in memory of Rabbi in memory of Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, Daniel Kaplan, brother of Debbie brother of Debbie Potts Potts; • Harriet Miller - in memory of Betty in memory of Debbie Katcoff, mother Akchin, mother of Don Akchin; of Jason Katcoff in memory of Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, • Laurie Glassner in honor of Nancy brother of Debbie Potts & Richard Bloom, on their wedding • Liz Moser - in memory of Martin Kohn, anniversary her father, on his yahrzeit cont’d on next page

18 19 Social Action Fund

Building Preservation & Ritual Enhancement • Ricky & Eric Fine - in memory of Fund cont’d Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, brother of • Ellen Patz - in memory of Rabbi Daniel Debbie Potts Kaplan, brother of Debbie Potts • Eleanor & David Goldstein - in • Doreen & Richard Rosenthal - in memory of Isaac Goldstein, his father, memory of Betty Akchin, mother of on his yahrzeit Don Akchin; • Jan Kaufman - in memory of Rabbi in memory of Martin Doctrow, brother Daniel Kaplan, brother of Debbie of Jerry Doctrow Potts • Annette & Michael Saxon - in memory • Stanley Kroiz - in memory of Samuel of Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, brother of Kroiz, his father, on his yahrzeit Debbie Potts • Judy & Hersh Langenthal - in memory • Jane Schapiro - in memory of Rabbi of Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, brother of Daniel Kaplan, brother of Debbie Debbie Potts Potts • Sheila & Steve LeMel - in memory • Linell Smith & Tom Hall - in honor of of Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, brother of Rabbis Daniel & Miriam Burg Debbie Potts • Carol & David Shulman - in memory of Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, brother of Cantor’s Discretionary Fund Debbie Potts • Diane Ableoff & Emile Bendit - in honor of Nancy & Richard Bloom, on Floral Fund their wedding anniversary • Lauren Lyon-Collis & Ariel Collis - in • Bonnie & Stuart Stainman - in memory memory of Arnold Dienstfrei, her of Hattie Stainman, his mother, on her grandfather, on his yahrzeit yahrzeit • Linda Small - in memory of Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, brother of Debbie Garden Fund Potts; • Eva Bazant & Rafael Coven - in honor in appreciation of Gail Wohlmuth, of their 15th wedding anniversary friend and co-worker • Shirley Braverman - in memory of Ida Goldman, her mother, on her yahrzeit Educator’s Discretionary Fund • Stanley Kroiz - in memory of Emmy General Fund Kroiz, his wife, on her yahrzeit • Shirley Braverman - in hopes of a • Lynn Sassin & Nate Braverman - speedy recovery for Judy Miller in memory of Golda Sassin, her • Eleanor & David Goldstein - in grandmother, on her yahrzeit memory of Rena Madansky, his sister on her yahrzeit Etta & Louis L. Kaplan • Hillary & Jim Jacobs - in memory Education Fund of Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, brother of Debbie Potts; • Doreen & Richard Rosenthal - in in honor of Nancy & Richard memory of Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, Bloom, on their wedding brother of Debbie Potts anniversary • Shirley Braverman - in memory of • Joanne Katz & Scott Zeger - in Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, brother of appreciation Debbie Potts • Ilene & Michael Salcman - in honor • Karen Egorin & Martin Yaker - in of Nancy & Richard Bloom, on their memory of Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, wedding anniversary brother of Debbie Potts cont’d on next page

19 I. William Schimmel Student • Harriet & Herb Goldman - in memory Scholarship Fund of Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, brother of Debbie Potts • Dovey & Billy Kahn - in memory of • Ida & Ed Gulin - in memory of her Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, brother of father Harry Balk; Debbie Potts in memory of Karpel Gulin, his father, • Judy Miller - in honor of Nancy & on his yahrzeit Richard Bloom, on their wedding • Mary Jacobs - in memory of Lillian anniversary Wortsman, her mother, on her yahrzeit • Sheila & Steve LeMel - in memory of Kiddush Fund Alvin Abrams, her stepfather, on his • Harriet Miller - in memory of Debbie yahrzeit Katcoff, mother of Jason Katcoff • Liz Moser - in honor of Nancy & • Abby & Charles Rammelkamp - in Richard Bloom, on their wedding honor of Don & Lisa Akchin, on the anniversary; birth of their granddaughter Anne in memory of Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, Marcella brother of Debbie Potts • Miriam Shulman - in hopes of a safe • Sharon & Joe Nathanson - in travel and safe return home for Carol appreciation & David Shulman • Georgia Parker - in honor of Nancy • Elaine Weiss & Julian Krolik - in & Richard Bloom, on their wedding memory of Jeannette Weiss, her anniversary mother on her yahrzeit • Georgia Parker, Diane Carasik Dion, • Gail & Lou Wohlmuth - in memory and Dana Parker - in memory of of Rabbi Daniel Kaplan, brother of Morris “Pat” Carasik, Georgia’s father, Debbie Potts on his yahrzeit • Nadja & Albert Pats - in memory of Morris Pats, his father, on his yahrzeit Prayer Book Fund • Ellen Pats - in memory of Eleanor • Drs. William & Lawrence Heller and Levy, mother of Ellen Patz and Judge Ellen Heller (Humash) - in grandmother of Susan Patz; memory of Dr. Richard Heller, her late in memory of Martin Kohn, father of husband & their father, on his yahrzeit Liz Moser, on his yahrzeit • Dee & Ben Rosenberg (Mahzor) - in • Dee & Ben Rosenberg - in memory honor of Stanley Fine, on his 58th Bar of Albert Rosenberg, his father on his Mitzvah anniversary yahrzeit • Lynn Sassin & Nate Braverman - in memory of Benjamin Sassin, her Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund father, on his yahrzeit • Diane Abeloff & Emile Bendit - in • Lorraine & Mark Schapiro - in hopes of honor of Nancy & Richard Bloom, on a speedy recovery for Phyllis Burg their wedding anniversary • Carol & David Shulman - in memory of • Lisa & Don Akchin - in appreciation Betty Akchin, mother of Don Akchin • Marcia & Ave Amith - in memory of • Stacy & Gary Suskauer - in memory Miriam Amith-Waldman, his mother of Barbara Kolton, her sister, on her on her yahrzeit yahrzeit; • Carol & Jerry Doctrow - in memory of in memory of Ida Suskauer, his his brother, Martin Doctrow grandmother, on her yahrzeit • Ricky & Eric Fine - in appreciation • Carole & Michael Tucker - in • Harriet & Herb Goldman - in memory appreciation of Betty Akchin, mother of Don Akchin • Jeff Watcher - in appreciation cont’d on next page 20 21 Social Action Fund • Lisa & Don Akchin - in honor of Nancy & Richard Bloom, on their wedding anniversary • Hillary & Jim Jacobs - in memory of Online Donations Betty Akchin, mother of Don Akchin Now Available! • Sharon & Joe Nathanson - in memory of Martin Doctrow, brother of Jerry You can now make online credit Doctrow card payments to acknowledge life • Abby & Charles Rammelkamp - in cycle events and special occasions. memory of Betty Akchin, mother of Don Akchin bethambaltimore.org/donate/ • Joan & Edward Sills - in memory of Lillian Green, her mother, on her yahrzeit; in memory of Max Sills, his father, on his yahrzeit • Leslie Sporn-Symonds & Phil Symonds in memory of Betty Akchin, mother The Campaign for Beth Am, of Don Akchin and grandmother of Tradition and Transformation, is Jonathan Akchin; designed to ensure Beth Am’s in memory of Charles Nathanson, future by investing in talented clergy brother of Joe Nathanson & uncle of and staff, renovating/expanding Amy Nathanson; the historic Sperry synagogue in honor of Lisa Kramer & Jonathan building, and supporting innovative Akchin on the birth of their daughter programs. How much we can do Anne Marcella; depends on you. Learn more at: in memory of Martin Doctrow, brother of Jerry Doctrow; bethambaltimore.org/ in memory of Milton Frank, uncle of whatsnew/campaign/ Sharon Nathanson • MiriamTillman - in memory of Betty Akchin, mother of Don Akchin From time to • Irma Weinstein - in memory of Marcia time Beth Am Kramer, her mother, on her yahrzeit members ask • Helen & Michael Weiss - in memory for help in the of Tessie Weiss, his mother, on her following ways: yahrzeit • Elaine Weiss & Julian Krolik - in honor ~Rides to shul and events of Nancy & Richard Bloom, on their ~Rides to doctor appointments wedding anniversary ~One Dish Meals for those who are ill ~Occasional errands Beth Am’s Congregant to KIDDUSH LUNCHEON Congregant (C2C) committee wants AND BIMAH FLOWERS to provide these services for our members. Sponsorships and Donations Please send Joyce Keating February 14 The Kiddush luncheon was sponsored [email protected] or by Alfred Moses in memory of his late [email protected] an wife, Carol Moses, on her yahrzeit. email indicating your interest.

21  .  .     .      .  .  

From every person whose heart is willing take my offering...and make Me a holy space that I may dwell among them. - Exodus 25

Our heartfelt gratitude to all who so generously pledged to this year’s Annual Fund Campaign. Thank you to our solicitors, who have worked so hard, and to our members who will pledge in the coming weeks. Every gift to the Annual Fund moves us closer to the goal of 100% participation. Contact Ricky Fine, Annual Fund Chair, at 410-358-2380 or [email protected] with any questions you may have.

22 23 FUND DESIGNATION Accessibility Fund - Used to make the Garden Fund - Beautifies grounds facility accessible to those with impaired General Fund - Applied to the physical abilities operating budget of the congregation Adult Education Fund - Supports I. William Schimmel Student Scholarship educational programs for all adults Fund - Assists students in their educational BAYITT Fund - Beth Am’s Young Adult pursuits Initiative for 20’s and 30’s Kiddush Fund - Used for luncheons Building Preservation and Ritual following Sabbath and holiday services Enhancement Fund - Supports the Prayer Book Fund - Supports the preservation and renovation of the building purchase of prayer books and dedication and the ritual items prayer books Cantor’s Discretionary Fund - Allows the Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund - Allows the Cantor to support special programs and Rabbi to support special programs and individuals in need individuals in need Educator’s Discretionary Fund - Social Action Fund - Supports social action Allows the Educator to support special activities in the Reservoir Hill area and the programs and individuals in need general community Etta & Louis L. Kaplan Education Fund Tiny Tots Shabbat Fund - Supports Supports the purchase of furniture, Shabbat programs for our preschoolers equipment and capital improvements for the Jewish Discovery Lab Youth & Teen Education Support Fund - Supports educational programs for all of Floral Fund - Beautifies the Bimah Beth Am’s youth

ACKNOWLEDGE THE OCCASION THROUGH BETH AM We encourage all congregants to send their contribution requests directly to Nakia Davis, [email protected] so they can be processed in a timely manner. Online donations available at our website bethambaltimore.org/donate/

First & Last Name(s): ______

______If your contribution is from a couple or family, please list all names (use additional paper if necessary)

Telephone: (______) ______- ______

Address: ______

City/State/Zip: ______

Date: ______Amount of Donation: ______($10 minimum requested; please make checks payable to Beth Am)

Fund Designation______

In honor/memory/appreciation of ______Send Acknowledgement Card To:

Name: ______

Address: ______

City/State/Zip: ______23 2501 Eutaw Place Baltimore, MD 21217

Beth Am Synagogue is a member of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. Look for the USCJ on-line at: www.uscj.org.

© 2015 Beth Am Synagogue