OCTOBER 2019 Tishri/Heshvan 5780

VOLUME 77 NUMBER 2

STAY CONNECTED facebook.com/groups/BnaiIsraelCong/ www.bnaiisraelcong.org

UPCOMING YOM KIPPUR BEGINS TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8 UPCOMING See page 9.

Men's Club Presents SUKKOT & FAMILY SIMHAT TORAH HEALTH CELEBRATIONS & October 13–22 FITNESS Congregational Sukkot Pizza in the Hut EXPO Dinner Sukkat Shalom: Creating Family Brunch in the A Shelter of Peace for Sukkah Refugees and Asylum Sunday, October 27 Seekers Open Sukkah: BYO Dinner See page 4 for information. Simhat Torah BBQ Sisterhood's Nosh & Learn in the Sukkah Hatan Torah & Kallat Inside Bereshit B’nai Mitzvah ...... 2 20s & 30s Evening Under Morocco Jewish Heritage Adventure ...... 2 Rabbi's Message ...... 3 the Stars: Sukkot Wine & Details on pages 10–11. Notes by Cantor Sarah Bolts ...... 4 Cheese Leadership Message ...... 5 HINEINI ...... 5 Lessans Adult Learning Institute...... 6 HAZAK...... 7 Cemetery Visits & Memorial Services ...... 8 High Holiday Highlights ...... 9 Sukkot Celebrations ...... 10 SARAH & SAMUEL J. Simhat Torah ...... 11 Shabbat Magic...... 12 LESSANS Early Childhood ...... 13 Youth & Education ...... 16 ADULT LEARNING Shabbat Magic Youth Services ...... 16 Youth Events ...... 17 INSTITUTE Israel Corner ...... 18 Blumberg-Zalis Family Library ...... 19 Courses Begin This Month Social Action ...... 20 Sisterhood ...... 21 See pages 6–7. Men's Club ...... 22 Mazal Tov ...... 23 Members in Mourning ...... 24 Donations ...... 25 B’NAI MITZVAH devn ipa Joshua Gregory Gregory Ganz Kahn Singer November 2 | 9:00 AM October 12 | 9:00 AM Gregory Kahn, son of Joshua Singer, son of Stacy and Steven Kahn, Rachel and Brian Singer, grandson of Rhoda and grandson of Laurice and Dr. Joel Ganz (z”l), and Dr. Robert Singer, and Miriam and Gunther Kahn CAMP RAMAH Laurie and Steven Forman, (z”l), is an 8th grade and great-grandson of student at Cabin John Sylvia Forman, is a 7th grade student at Middle School. For his mitzvah project, Tilden Middle School. For his mitzvah Gregory will be collecting donations project, Joshua raised money through the for Comfort Cases, an organization that World of Change organization for three local provides items of comfort for children charities: Stepping Stones Shelter, Manna entering the foster care system for the first Food Center, and Friendship Circle. He also time. volunteers at Friendship Circle by pairing Exotic Morocco Jewish up with special needs children to celebrate Heritage Adventure birthdays or other special events. Jessi Ganz Kahn November 2 | 9:00 AM with Jessi Kahn, daughter of Rabbi Michael & Sharon Daniel Ian Schlactus Stacy and Steven Kahn, Safra October 19 | 9:00 AM granddaughter of Rhoda Daniel Schlactus, son and Dr. Joel Ganz (z”l), April 19-29, 2020 of Stacy and Dr. David and Miriam and Gunther Schlactus, grandson of Kahn (z”l), is a 7th grade Tour includes: Lila and Joseph Mensh student at Cabin John Casablanca (z”l), and Barbara and Middle School. For her mitzvah project, Jessi Marrakesh Howard Schlactus, is will be collecting donations for Comfort Fes an 8th grade student at Cases, an organization that provides items Rabat Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School. For of comfort for children entering the foster Meknes his mitzvah project, Daniel is collecting care system for the first time. El Jadida food items in support of B’nai Israel’s Project Manna and the Manna Food Center. View and download the Lilli Ganz Kahn itinerary and application at November 2 | 9:00 AM www.bnaiisraelcong.org/morocco Lilli Kahn, daughter of Stacy and Steven Kahn, For more information, granddaughter of Rhoda contact Rabbi Safra and Dr. Joel Ganz (z”l), (301-881-6550, and Miriam and Gunther [email protected]). Kahn (z”l), is an 8th grade student at Cabin John Middle School. For her mitzvah project, Lilli will be collecting donations for Comfort Cases, an organization that provides items of comfort for children entering the foster care system for the first time. Lilli also actively volunteers with Best Buddies, an organization that creates opportunities for individuals living with intellectual and development disabilities.

2 OCTOBER 2019 for the meal in order to invite in one of these ancestors. Each one embodies one of God’s Welcome to the Newest attributes, and thus their presence in our Members of Our sukkah is a way of making God manifest B’nai Israel Family within the walls of our humble huts. (August 9–September 3, 2019)

In Siddur Sim Shalom, and the more recently published Siddur Lev Shalem, seven women New Members . . . of our tradition are included to accompany the men. They are Sarah, Rebecca, Leah, ERIC EINHORN Rachel, Miriam, Deborah, and Ruth. (For those who have the custom of eating in MICKEY GOLDSTEIN the sukkah on Shemini Atzeret, you invite RABBI'S MESSAGE Solomon and Esther.) This beautiful ritual of DR. MARNI HALL AND by RABBI MITCHELL BERKOWITZ acknowledging the presence of our ancestors EDWARD HALLISSEY (and in so doing, the Presence of God) is an opportunity for us to discuss, as friends and LIZ LAUREN-OSER AND You might expect that, for clergy, the end family, what these individuals represent in AARON OSER of Yom Kippur would bring a sigh of relief, our lives. How can we aspire to demonstrate followed by the onset of extreme exhaustion, hospitality like Abraham and Sarah? What PAULA CORREA-SILVER AND but that is not the experience that I have would the world look like if partners loved JONATHAN SILVER had over these past few years. Rather, I am each other as Isaac and Rebecca? How can exhilarated. I have had the same tradition we learn from the examples of Moses and EMILY AND HARRIS TROBMAN for the past 5 years, and I do not intend to Miriam to become more effective leaders? break it anytime soon: immediately after I Brukhim habaim! The entire congregation finish eating my break fast meal (and after This custom of inviting in the ushpizin is shares our joy in welcoming you into our a cappuccino), I go outside on our deck to without parallel on the other festivals of the B’nai Israel family. begin constructing our sukkah. No, I don’t year. It is a unique opportunity to look into usually finish that night, but I make an effort the past, and to try to emulate the greatest to sufficiently begin the project while I can attributes of our ancestors. We reset our still feel that excitement and exhilaration. relationship with God on the High Holidays, and then we go out to literally rebuild that As I child, Legos were my favorite toys, relationship with God and with the people Support B’nai Israel so it is no surprise that as an adult I derive around us, starting with the construction of a by Shopping in Your real joy and happiness in building our humble hut to which we invite not only our Sisterhood Judaica Shop! sukkah. Yet the most exciting aspect of nearest and dearest, but also our spiritual the hag is when the first guests arrive We have all that you need for your progenitors. In so doing, we hope to bring and enter the sukkah, looking around at holiday shopping as well as your joy and gladness to one another, and bring our various decorations (my favorite is a other gift-giving needs. meaning and depth to our relationship with poster with images depicting each of the the Divine. Torah’s parashot), our light fixtures, and Thank you in advance for your the table set for a celebratory feast. It is support! Rebecca, Ruby, and I wish you all a festive always a joy to welcome guests into our and meaningful celebration of Sukkot. May home for Shabbat and holidays, but there is See page 23 for details. your humble huts be filled with food, family, something particularly special about doing friends, and so much more. this on Sukkot. This extra special feeling comes from the spiritual guests that visit our humble huts during this time of the year. B'NAI ISRAEL CONGREGATION 6301 Montrose Road Rockville, Maryland 20852 This spiritual guests are collectively referred to as the ushpizin. In classical siddurim, 301-881-6550 these individuals are identified as Abraham, www.bnaiisraelcong.org Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Aaron, and Affiliated with The United Synagogue David. On each of the seven nights of of Conservative Judaism the festival (Shemini Atzeret is its own B’nai Israel Congregation celebration), we pause before the blessings is an accessible building.

OCTOBER 2019 3 polyphony, joining my own voice together with the voices of my community to create something that is bigger than all of us.

MICHAEL J. SAFRA Senior Rabbi So I want to hear from you. Do you love MITCHELL H. BERKOWITZ Assistant Rabbi to sing? Do you play an instrument? What JONATHAN A. SCHNITZER kinds of music would you like to hear at Rabbi Emeritus MATTHEW H. SIMON, DD, DHL B’nai Israel? Is there a musical event or Rabbi Emeritus experience that you’ve always wanted to see JOSH C. PERLMAN Hazzan here? Bring me your ideas and your voices, ILANA WOLPERT and let’s make music together. Associate Hazzan SARAH BOLTS Associate Hazzan/Music Director ROBERT KIEVAL NOTES Hazzan Emeritus by CANTOR SARAH BOLTS HAL OSSMAN Executive Director MOSHE BEN-LEV Education Director Thank you all for the warm welcome RABBI PENINA ALEXANDER Assistant Principal you’ve given me and my family! Michael, KAREN GERTON Julia, and I are excited to make Rockville Early Childhood Director our home and to become part of the B’nai TO Y UR NANCY GOLDBERG Schilit Nursery School Assistant Director Israel community. We are looking forward to SARAH JARVIS Director of Youth Engagement getting to know as many of you as we can, HEALTH! ARIELLE KATZEL so if we haven’t met yet, please feel free to Family Engagement Coordinator JILL GENDELMAN come and introduce yourself. Librarian NETTA ASNER I’ve spent my first couple of months here Congregational Shlicha FAMILY JOSE (PEPE) STRAUSS getting my office set up, preparing for Facilities Director the High Holidays, and getting to know PATRICIA SIMITAKOS HEALTH Events Manager the community. Once the High Holidays are over, however, I’m hoping to get a OFFICERS & STEVEN ROTHENBERG conversation started about how we do music President and prayer here at B’nai Israel. I want to SCOTT HODES FITNESS Vice President Administration talk about what we’re doing well, what we DAVID STEIN already love about the music we sing here. EXPO Vice President Development DANA LANDE And I want to talk about what else we could Vice President Membership be doing, what other ways we might find to DOUGLAS SUNSHINE expand our musical and spiritual horizons. Vice President Religious Affairs FONDA LOWE SUNDAY, OCTOBER 27 Vice President Youth and Education Part of this conversation will be facilitated DINA COHEN GRUBER Secretary by Eliana Light, our artist-in-residence for ROB LOEWY the weekend of November 14–17. Eliana 9:30 AM–1:00 PM Treasurer APRIL KAPLAN will be working with us over the course of Assistant Treasurer the year to explore our relationship to prayer Guest Speaker MARC LEVINE Parliamentarian and how we might bring renewed energy to Health Screenings MARLA SCHULMAN our prayers. Over the course of the weekend, Vendor Exhibits Immediate Past President she will be teaching us and leading us in CHERYL ROD Assessments Sisterhood President prayer and song in many different ways. I am WAYNE BERMAN | LEWIS GERTZ excited to welcome her to our congregation Fitness Advice Men’s Club Co-Presidents JUDITH ALTNEU and to hear what she has to teach us. Flu Shots, and more. United Synagogue Youth President STEVEN COHEN DR. PATRICIA GREENWEL-ROJKIND But part of this conversation will also Organized and sponsored DR. STEVEN HAUSMAN involve you, the members of the B’nai Israel DR. FRED MESSING by the B'nai Israel Men's Club. DR. STEPHEN B. ROBBINS community. A crucial goal of my vocation JOEL SHANKMAN as a cantor is that I don’t want to be the only JAY WECHSLER Gabbaim one who sings. My vision is to be part of a

4 OCTOBER 2019 our recently scheduled active shooter training on September 22, led by Jay Gruber and Sarit Scott, we attempt to keep our congregants as safe as possible. Under the guidance of Security Chair Karen Post, we constantly examine our needs and work with local, state and federal authorities. HINEINI Annual Campaign Finally, the lights in the building have now been converted to LED. Aside from the fact 2019–2020 that the lights are crisper and brighter, the future savings are expected to be substantial. As we start this I am working with Executive Director Hal year's Hineini Annual Ossman on creating ways in which we can LEADERSHIP attract and retain top notch personnel in our Campaign, this is the administrative functions. To that end we time for B’nai Israel. MESSAGE are examining the benefits offered to our by SCOTT HODES employees, and we hope to come up with Our community’s generous support Vice President Administration ideas to make these better (without greatly for last year’s record-breaking Hineini increasing costs) so that we can continue to annual campaign allowed us to do so compete in the marketplace for exceptional "I want to get involved in synagogue much to foster Jewish identity and staff moving forward. leadership because I'm interested grow our entire B’nai Israel community. in the physical structure, grounds and Thanks to your support, we successfully On behalf of Rochelle and my entire family, administrative personnel decisions of the met our goal of asking less and saying I'd like to wish everyone a very healthy and shul" said no one ever. In fact, unless “thank you” more. happy New Year. you have been involved directly in these decisions, you likely never even think We begin the new year in a position about how and what it takes to keep B'nai of financial strength. New families are Israel running 365 days a year. However, joining our congregation every day, and in the past few months since becoming The Fine Arts Committee we are engaging the community in new Vice President for Administration, I've Needs Your Historic and creative ways. received an education in all of the above B'nai Israel Photos! items and want to point out some of the This is the time to support Jewish life. The Fine Arts Committee is working recent developments around our building This is the time to build on our success. and grounds. on a project to display the history of B'nai Israel through photographs. This is the time to make a difference. We are in need of the following: We hope you will consider raising your First, our Fine Arts Committee has began the hand to say “Hineini/ Here I am” with a creation of a beautiful and interesting B'nai Confirmation Class gift to this year’s campaign. Israel museum exhibit. The construction of photos for the following years: the area took place over the summer, and Any photos prior to 1960; and, some items are already on display. As a 1963, 1967, 1972–2013. Make your gift today by returning the bonus, the silver Judaica around B'nai was pledge card you received in the mail, Historical photos through your ChaverWeb account, or all extensively cleaned up and polished! of B'nai Israel synagogue and/ by contacting our Executive Director, Thanks to Randy Sager and Anne Abend for or events that have taken place all their work. throughout it's long history— Hal Ossman, (301-816-5563, hossman@ weddings, bar mitzvahs, programs, bnaiisraelcong.org). We've replaced one of the air conditioner graduations, class photos, etc. compressors in Gudelsky Hall. While we If you have any of these photos, always hope the High Holidays are cool, please consider sending them you can never be too prepared! Pepe Strauss to us to reproduce. Your original does a fine job of overseeing and constantly photographs will be returned once inspecting our physical plant—and catching they are copied. the need for a compressor before we are all shvitzing is just one example of this. Please contact Randy Sager ([email protected]) for more information. Unfortunately, we must emphasize security these days, and as many of you know from

OCTOBER 2019 5 SARA & SAMUEL J. LESSANS ADULT LEARNING INSTITUTE

The Torah and Aleph Isn’t Tough: Learning to Read Hebrew for Adults Beyond: Lunch with Netta Asner, Congregational Shlicha and Learn Sunday, October 6, and continuing nine more Sundays with Rabbi Jonathan (No class 11/17 and 12/1) A. Schnitzer 9:15–10:30 AM Monday, October 7 $40/members, $50/nonmembers and the first Monday of This is a beginner’s course to help you learn to read Hebrew, with a focus all other months on the Hebrew of the siddur, or prayer book. The course will also explore 12:30–1:30 PM aspects of Israeli history and culture. The registration includes a copy of For many years, our Lunch and Learn the textbook, Aleph Isn’t Tough. group has explored the text of the Torah verse-by-verse, chapter-by-chapter, book- The congregational shlicha program is made possible by a partnership with the Jewish by-book. We “unpack” not only the more Federation of Greater Washington. obvious meaning of the words and ideas but how they interface with contemporary issues and our own personal concerns and challenges. Is This Any Way to Run a Country? with Steve Kerbel Our 2019–2020 season will be especially Wednesday, October 30 and continuing six more Wednesdays (No class 11/27) meaningful as we complete our study of 9:30–11:00 AM the Book of Deuteronomy, the last section Jewish self-rule in ancient Israel was a delicate balance that we will look of the Torah. We will then continue with at carefully with ancient texts and our modern perspectives. It involved excerpts from the Book of Joshua, the next negotiating the inherent conflicts between kingdom and empire building, text in the biblical sequence. Comments religious particularism, and the wants and needs of the people being ruled. Elie Wiesel: “(Joshua) is the narrative of We will start with King Solomon and study Kings I and II, Chronicles I a stunning adventure, the echoes of which and II, and other sources. Presented by the Haberman Institute for reverberate in our consciousness—and in Jewish Studies. our newspapers—to this day: a nation still exuberant and young, still homeless, is about to take possession of a territory, still MELTON SCHOLARS COURSE inhabited by other tribes and other entities, in the name of an ancient promise, on the Social Justice: The Heart authority of a higher inscrutable will.” of Judaism in Theory and Practice As the “regulars” will attest, our with Rabbis Gary Pokras, Adam conversations are lively, and we are not Raskin, Michael Safra, Baht Weiss Thursdays, October 31–January 23 a “closed club.” Newcomers are always 9:30–11:00 AM warmly welcomed, as together we discover at Congregation Har Shalom anew the power of the Bible. (B’nai Israel members use code BI100 for a $100 discount.) This new course draws from text and history to explore how social justice work goes beyond short-term needs and looks at structural causes of injustice. Topics include To REGISTER or for more poverty, immigration, and environmental degradation. Participants will be encouraged to information on any of our identify issues in their own communities that they would like to explore in greater depth. learning opportunities, Co-sponsored by B’nai Israel, Beth Ami, and Har Shalom congregations. go to www.bnaiisraelcong.org/ adulteducation. Subsidies are made possible through the generosity of the Dollye and I. Wolford Berman Educational Initiative Grant. QUESTIONS? Contact Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz (301-816-5575, [email protected]).

6 OCTOBER 2019 SARA & SAMUEL J. LESSANS ADULT LEARNING INSTITUTE

Midrash: Childhood Tales or Insightful Teachings L.I.F.E. LECTURE with Rabbi Michael Safra Rescue Board: The Tuesday, November 5, and continuing four more Tuesdays Untold Story of 7:30–9:00 PM America’s Efforts $36/members, $50/nonmembers to Save the Jews Modern readers often discount the imaginative stories of the ancient of Europe Rabbis as “old wives tales.” But the word “midrash” simply means with “study.” Close examination demonstrates just how insightful, creative, Dr. Rebecca Erbelding and consistent the Rabbis were in addressing inconsistencies within the Sunday, November 3 biblical text. Beneath the surface of the various stories, one finds that ancient readers were 7:30 PM disturbed by the very same questions that plague moderns. During this course, we will For more than a decade, a harsh immigration examine a series of midrashim on biblical stories in order to better understand the classical policy kept most Jewish refugees out of Rabbinic method of interpreting sacred text. Participants are encouraged to offer their America, even as Hitler and the Nazis own answers to these and other questions, creating their own modern midrash. closed in. In 1944, Franklin D. Roosevelt created the War Refugee Board, and put BRUNCH & LEARN IN THE SUKKAH a young Treasury lawyer, John Pehle, in Sukkat Shalom: Creating A Shelter of Peace for charge. In this remarkable work of historical Today’s Refugees and Asylum Seekers reclamation, Rebecca Erbelding pieces with Chelsey Berlin together years of research and archival HIAS Director of Community Engagement for Greater materials to tell the story of America’s little- Washington DC Sunday, October 20 known efforts to save the Jews of Europe. 11:00 AM Each year, we recreate the huts in which our Israelite ancestors found Dr. Rebecca Erbelding is a historian, refuge after escaping slavery in Egypt and wandering in the desert for 40 curator, and archivist at the U.S. Holocaust years. Sukkot allows us time to recognize our own fragility and reminds Memorial Museum and served as the us that, for so many, shelter remains impermanent. Today, more than 70 lead historian on the Museum’s special million refugees and displaced people still wander the earth in search of a safe place to call exhibition, Americans and the Holocaust, home. This Sukkot, join HIAS, the world’s oldest, and only Jewish refugee organization, on display 2018–2021. Her first book, for an update on the global refugee and asylum crisis, as well as a textual exploration of Rescue Board: The Untold Story of the Jewish obligation to take action. America’s Efforts to Save the Jews of Europe, won the National Jewish Book Hosted by the Refugee & Immigrant Aid Committee. Award, and has been featured in the New York Times, The Washington Post, the New Yorker, and on the History Channel and the HAZAK National Geographic. America’s Jewish Women from Colonial Times to Today Rescue Board details the War Refugee with Pamela Nadell Board, a U.S. government agency, run by Thursday, October 10 a young group of Department of Treasury Bring a dairy lunch at 12:00 PM; Program begins at 12:30 PM lawyers. They begged, borrowed, bribed, A groundbreaking history of how Jewish women maintained their laundered money, falsified documents, identity and influenced social activism as they wrote themselves into opened a refugee camp, and threw the American history. What does it mean to be a Jewish woman in America? weight of the U.S. government behind their In a gripping historical narrative, Pamela S. Nadell weaves together the stories of a plans, ultimately saving tens of thousands diverse group of extraordinary people. The twin threads binding these women together, of lives. she argues, are a strong sense of self and a resolute commitment to making the world a better place. Nadell recounts how Jewish women have been at the forefront of causes L.I.F.E. Lectures are typically free of for centuries, fighting for suffrage, trade unions, civil rights, and feminism, and hoisting charge and open to the entire community. banners for Jewish rights around the world.

This program is free of charge, but reservations are requested to Rachel Hyman, Program Associate (301-816-5562, [email protected]).

HAZAK is our group for individuals 55 or older who want to share in interesting experiences. It’s never too late to make new friends! OCTOBER 2019 7 HIGH HOLIDAYS 2019/5780 Cemetery Visits & Memorial Services

It is customary during the period before Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur to visit the graves of our family and friends as well as MANNA High Holiday to attend a Kever Avot Memorial service. FOOD DRIVE

Garden of Remembrance "Is this not the fast I have chosen… to share Gan Zikaron Memorial Park your bread with the hungry?” Sunday, October 6 (Isaiah 58:6–7) 10:00 AM and 2:30 PM For more information, contact Garden of Help us to feed those in need this holiday Remebrance (301-428-3000). season.

Judean Memorial Gardens Bring non-perishable items to B’nai Israel on Sunday, October 6 10:30 AM the evening of Tuesday, October 8 (before For more information, contact Judean Kol Nidre services) to help those who face Memorial Gardens (301-384-1000). hunger and food insecurity.

More information can be found online at This special annual project is led by our www.bnaiisraelcong.org/cemetery. USY chapter with hopes to collect as much as we can every year. The items we collect are donated to Manna Food Center to help the people of Montgomery County. Join Our Dweck The Synagogue offices Sanctuary Service Contact Sarah Jarvis, Director of Youth will be closed on Engagement (240-221-2515, sarahj@ Monday, September 30 bnaiisraelcong.org) with questions. by Telephone, PC, or and Tuesday, October 1 Mac for Sound for Rosh Hashanah. & Video The Synagogue offices will Join from PC, Mac, Linux, iOS or close at 12:00 PM Android: https://zoom.us/j/788352437 on Tuesday, October 8 and HAPPY remain closed on Wednesday, iPhone one-tap : October 9 for Yom Kippur. US: +19294362866, 788352437# or +16699006833, NEW YEAR The Synagogue offices 788352437# will be closed on Monday, October 14 and Telephone: Dial (for higher quality, daeh dpy Tuesday, October 15 for Sukkot. dial a number based on your current location): The Synagogue offices US: +1 929 436 2866 or will be closed on Monday, +1 669 900 6833 October 21 for Shemini Atzeret Meeting ID: 788 352 437 and on Tuesday, October 22 for Simhat Torah. International numbers available: https://zoom.us/u/esaDZyBr5 The Leadership, Clergy, and Staff of B’nai Israel

8 OCTOBER 2019 2019/5780 HIGH HOLIDAYS

For the complete service schedule, please check your tickets or visit Play & Pray www.bnaiisraelcong.org/highholidays. NEW Space this year The Bridal Room will ROSH HASHANAH YOM KIPPUR be open throughout our Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur Highlights Highlights services. Parents with infants or Sunday, September 29 toddlers who do not wish to sit through 1st Evening of Rosh Wednesday, October 9 the entirety of a traditional service Hashanah Breakout Session are welcome to watch and listen to Choosing to Be the Dweck Sanctuary service in this Minha/Ma'ariv Chosen comfortable environment. with Treva 6:30 PM Bustow, Nancy Eig & Dorothy of the new Mahzor Lev Dedication Matlis Security Procedures Shalem 12:30 PM Three remarkable women During the High Holidays, the same Sermon by Rabbi Matthew H. Simon tell their stories of how they ticket procedures that were instituted in "Who We Are" came to cast their lot with the recent years will be in place for security Jewish people. purposes. Please read the following information carefully. Monday, September 30 Breakout Session Bridging the Divide Between 1st Day of Rosh Hashanah • Tickets are required for all American and Israeli Jews individuals entering the building. with Netta Asner, Breakout Session If you forget your ticket, we will Congregational Shlicha The Year Ahead in 1:30 PM have a table set up to verify that you Politics: Three Things to Why is the relationship registered. We ask for your patience Worry About—And Not so important? What are the fissures? in both entering the building and Worry About—In 2020 verifying your seats. with Wes Kosova What does our future hold? The congregational shlicha program is made • Uniformed law enforcement 12:00 PM possible by a partnership with the Jewish personnel will be present. Also, off- Federation of Greater Washington. Tashlikh Service at 6:00 PM duty police officers will be stationed throughout the building. Emerging from the Whale: Jonah and • A certified EMT will be on premises His Journey with Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz in the building throughout the Tuesday, October 1 3:00 PM holidays to help respond to any health and safety issues that may 2nd Day of Rosh Hashanah In her commentary on the Book of Jonah, Erica Brown asks, “Maybe we will see in arise. the God of Jonah, the God of each and • Security concerns extend to school Creative Service every one of us, a God who cares for us age and teenage children. Parents with Rabbi Rami Schwartzer intimately and personally…” should ensure that their children 10:00 AM are enrolled in appropriate youth The informative Ask the Rabbi services or are sitting with them in explanations, engaging with Rabbi Michael Safra their assigned seats. Students who discussions, and a small amount of 3:45 PM have not pre-registered in youth meditation and musical exploration, Rabbi Safra looks forward to this exciting services may not be permitted to Yom Kippur tradition. Please submit your help us to focus on the most familiar participate. parts of the liturgy. questions to Susan Grinnan (susang@ bnaiisraelcong.org). We ask for your cooperation and Neilah understanding, so that all of us together 6:00 PM can foster a meaningful and safe Special Presentation by Rabbi Jonathan A. experience at B’nai Israel during the Schnitzer 2019/5780: A Son's Reflection. High Holidays. The service concludes with Shofar blasts at 7:15 PM.

OCTOBER 2019 9 SUKKOT

Men’s Club SUKKOT SALES Congregational Sukkot Dinner 20s & 30s Evening Under The Program Sunday, October 13 Stars: Sukkot Wine & Cheese 6:30 PM at a Sukkah in the Community $18/adult members, $22/adult Wednesday, October 16 nonmembers 8:00 PM $7/child member, $12/child nonmember (ages 3–12) An evening of learning and connecting with No charge for children 2 & under other 20s & 30s from the community. Host- Enjoy a delicious meal with family and ed by Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz and Rabbi friends under the stars as you fulfill the Aderet Drucker of The Den Collective. If mitzvah dwelling the sukkah! Registration you are interested in participating, please is required for dinner and is due by contact Rabbi Berkowitz (301-816-5575, Purchase a sukkah online from www.sukkot. Sunday, October 6. After October 6, the [email protected]) for de- com and use the code “bnaiisrael2019” at price per person increases by $4. Contact tails and location. checkout to receive a 10% discount while Rachel Hyman with questions (Rachel@ supplies last. bnaiisraelcong.org). Register online at www.bnaiisraelcong.org/sukkot. If you need assistance with your sukkah selection or help to construct a new or an existing sukkah, the Men’s Club members Sukkot Family Brunch will gladly help for a small donation to the Monday, October 14 Talmud Torah. Contact Asher Gendelman 10:30 AM Brunch (240-432-0020, [email protected]). 11:00 AM Youth Service $7/immediate family Traditional Festival services begin at 9:00 SUKKOT AM in Dweck Sanctuary. Bring your family Service Times and friends for a celebratory brunch in the Fanaroff Sukkah, followed by a festival Pizza in the Hut Sunday, October 13 youth service. The morning concludes with Thursday, October 17 Sukkot Eve the joyous hoshanot procession of lulav 6:00 PM 6:30 PM Congregational Dinner $20/immediate family before Sunday (reservations due by October 6) and etrog. Reservations for brunch are due October 13 8:00 PM Festival Service by Thursday, October 10. Contact Arielle $30/immediate family after Sunday, Monday, October 14 Katzel with questions (301-816-5567, October 13 1st Day of Sukkot [email protected]). 9:00 AM Festival Service Enjoy a night of fun with friends and 10:30 AM Family Brunch family. Join other school-aged families (reservations due by October 10) for a pizza and pasta dinner, followed by 11:00 AM Tots Service Open Sukkah: BYO Dinner a candy sukkah building contest! Contact 11:00 AM Junior Congregation Tuesday October 15 12:30 PM Minha Arielle Katzel with questions (301-816- and Wednesday, October 16 8:00 PM Festival Service 5567, [email protected]). This 5:00–7:30 PM program is co-sponsored by the Day School Tuesday, October 15 Bring your own dairy meal and enjoy it in 2nd Day of Sukkot and Talmud Torah Committees. 9:00 AM Festival Service the B’nai Israel FanaroffSukkah . No RSVP 11:00 AM Tots Service required. Please note that the sukkah will 12:30 PM Minha be closed if it is raining. 8:00 PM Evening Minyan

Sunday, October 20 Hoshana Raba 9:00 AM Festival Service Shemini Atzeret Eve Register online at www.bnaiisraelcong.org/sukkot 8:00 PM Festival Service or use the form on page 27.

Monday, October 21 Shemini Atzeret 9:00 AM Festival Service In the spirit of tradition, Sukkot events will take place outdoors 11:00 AM Tots Service 11:00 AM Junior Congregation in the Fanaroff Sukkah, except in the event of rain. 11:00 AM Yizkor 12:30 PM Minha Please dress appropriately.

10 OCTOBER 2019 SIMHAT TORAH During Simhat Torah services on Sunday, October 22, it is customary for every SIMHAT member of the congregation to receive an Aliyah. The honors of Hatan Torah, the NEW last Aliyah of the book of Deuteronomy; and Kallat Breishit, the first Aliyah in this year Genesis, are assigned by our Ritual committee to recognize significant contribu- TORAH BBQ tions to the ritual life of our synagogue. Mazal tov to Rabbi Arthur Rulnick and Stefanie Juster on receiving those honors this year.

RABBI STEFANIE ARTHUR JUSTER RULNICK

Arthur Rulnick and The power of music—a his wife, Adrienne, most precious gift from Monday, October 21 have been members my late father, Kenneth of B’nai Israel since William Juster, that I 5:30 PM BBQ Tailgate Dinner 2008. They moved am honored to share 6:30 PM Simhat Torah Service $12/adult with all of you. to Rockville to join $7/child their son, Aaron, and his wife, Alisa, No charge for children 2 & under who had previously moved to this area. My name is Stefanie Alison Juster and I Rabbi Rulnick was ordained by the have been married to my wonderful husband Start this night of fun and dance with Jewish Theological Seminary 50 years Aaron Michael Gothelf for over 15 years. a tailgate style BBQ dinner including ago and served congregations in Georgia, We moved to this area from Chicago when hotdogs, hamburgers, vegetarian options, Massachusetts and Long Island. When he our daughter, Rebeckah Jordan Gothelf and delicious side dishes. Dinner will retired from the active rabbinate in 2007, he was 17 months old; she will become a Bat be followed by our lively Simhat Torah told his son: “Visit all the synagogues in the Mitzvah this coming February here at B’nai. celebration. area and choose the one you like best; and Aaron and I chose Rebeckah’s Hebrew I will find a home within walking distance name, Kanara, to honor my Father. Kanara Registration is required for the dinner and we will be members together.” The means songbird and I cannot think of a more (www.bnaiisraelcong.org/simhattorah) Rulnicks are thrilled that Aaron chose Bnai fitting choice for her. and is due by Wednesday, October 16. Israel, where he, Alisa, and children Jacob A late fee of $3/person will be charged and Lily have been regular worshippers and Like all families, we have had our share for registration after October 16. For participants in synagogue activities. of ups and downs. The past year has been questions, contact Arielle Katzel, Family especially difficult—I became very ill two Engagement Coordinator (301-816-5567, Rabbi Rulnick grew up with inspirational weeks after surgery related to my second [email protected]). rabbis in West Hartford, Connecticut, breast cancer battle. Family and friends, Everyone is welcome to attend the Simhat and he is grateful in retirement to sit in and even work colleagues I barely knew said Torah celebration. No reservations are the pews and be spiritually nourished by my name during Mi Shebeirah. I wanted so necessary. the sermons and divrei torah of Rabbis desperately to find peace in prayer, to believe Jonathan Schnitzer, Michael Safra and now in G-d, to understand and quickly read the Mitchell Berkowitz. He adds that Cantor Hebrew words in our prayer books, to erase Josh Perlman’s glorious voice, Cantor Ilana the deep guilt and shame I feel for such SIMHAT TORAH Wolpert’s meticulous Torah reading, and failures, to feel comfortable during services, the contributions of Cantor Sarah Bolts to believe that I am a good Jew. Service Times add immeasurably to the beauty of Shabbat services. “Music,” Cantor Josh said to me in the Monday, October 21 hospital. His answer amazed me. It also Erev Simhat Torah provided great comfort. 5:30 PM BBQ Tailgate Dinner On a number of occasions Rabbi Rulnick (reservations due by October 16) has been called upon to assist B’nai Israel’s 6:30 PM Festival Service clergy. He has conducted Shabbat services, My father had filled our small New York led shiva services in congregant homes, apartments with popular songs from the Tuesday, October 22 and served on batei din to certifying the 1940s through the early 2000s, opera, show Simhat Torah 9:00 AM Festival Service conversion of candidates to Judaism. He tunes, jazz, country, rock, and classical 1:00 PM Minha has also taught classes at the synagogue. music. I loved watching him wave his green 8:00 PM Ma’ariv

CONTINUED ON PAGE 27. CONTINUED ON PAGE 27. OCTOBER 2019 11 SHABBAT MAGIC Shabbat Shenanigans Shabbat Morning Shabbat Saturday, October 12 NEW Wine & Cheese this Alternative 12:15–1:15 PM* year! Reception Games and fun for grades Sessions K–12 on the second Saturday of each Join us as we introduce new and exciting sessions Friday, October 4 month. Sports, activities, board games, on Shabbat mornings, which will 5:45 PM crafts, and more for you and your friends. run parallel to our traditional prayer Spend time with your Contact Sarah Jarvis, Director of Youth services. B’nai Israel family Engagement (240-221-2515, sarahj@ enjoying wine, cheese, and kid-friendly bnaiisraelcong.org) for more information. New Beginnings: snacks in the Teitel Atrium before A Service of Kabbalat Shabbat services. We will gather *Please note new time. Mindfulness and for a moment of kavanah (intentionality) before moving into Hayman Chapel for Movement our services. with Rabbi Michael Teen Minyan Safra & Saturday, October 19 Vicki Berman 10:30–11:45 AM Shabbat Breishit, This special service is led by and for October 26 10:00–11:30 AM Shabbat Afternoon teens. Contact Sarah Jarvis, Director Talmud Study of Youth Engagment (240-221-2515, As we begin the new with Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz [email protected]) to get Torah cycle, contemplate Resumes on Saturday, October 5 involved. the possibilities of the 4:30–5:45 PM “new you” … spiritually Blumberg-Zalis Family Library at least. Explore the We will continue our exploration of the core elements of the talmudic tractate Beitzah. Newcomers are traditional service through more than welcome to join us. No prior GRADE SHABBATOT movement and mindfulness. Consider knowledge is necessary. Contact Rabbi strategies for finding spiritual meaning and Berkowitz to RSVP (mhberkowitz@ 5th Grade Shabbat & Brunch personal fulfillment through prayer and bnaiisraelcong.org). Saturday, October 19 contemplation. Movement activities will 10:00 AM Brunch be physically easy and relaxing. Dress is 10:30 AM Junior Congregation “Shabbat casual.”

Shabbat Morning Torah Study Register Online October 12 (Ha'azinu) 3s Shabbat www.bnaiisraelcong.org/shma with Fonda Lowe Saturday, October 26 October 26 (Bereshit) 10:30 AM Brunch Contact Rachel Hyman, Program Associate with Alan Siegel 11:00 AM Tot Shabbat Service with questions (301-816-5562, rachel@ 9:00–10:00 AM bnaiisraelcong.org). Engage with the weekly parsha during these interactive discussions, led by community members and by clergy. NEW this Contact Laurie Weker-Lipton with Family Minyan NEW year! 20s & 30s Shabbat questions ([email protected]) or to Saturday, November 2 this 10:00 AM year! volunteer to lead a session. Meet n’ Eat Gather as a family for this special Shabbat Join our shlicha (Israeli emis- morning service with meaningful learning, sary) and other peers in their 20s and 30s spirited prayer, and engaging Torah reading. from the greater DC area for an intimate All are welcome to attend. Friday night Shabbat dinner once a month!

SHABBAT MAGIC If you would like a leadership role in Contact Netta Asner, Congregational YOUTH SERVICES the service, contact Rabbi Berkowitz Shlicha ([email protected], 240- ([email protected]). 388-8077) if you are interested in joining See page 16 for the schedule. her!

12 OCTOBER 2019 As we focus on our students, some classes, the children created promises we are reminded by Dr. Suess’ about how to get along in the classroom. Horton Hears a Who that, When children are a part of is process they “A person is a person no are more apt to own the behavior. matter how small.” While this seems simple, it has We also create respect when we allow great implications for our children their feelings and help them label work with children. We want their emotions. Becoming aware and able to our students to be inquisitive verbalize their desires, they are better able active learners, independent, to share, help others and be a productive and good citizens. Showing member of the class. respect to them, even at a very young age, helps develop these EARLY characteristics. CHILDHOOD by KAREN GERTON Director

The highest quality program is having a culture that aligns with our values. In a strong culture, there are overlapping and cohesive interactions, so that knowledge As the year progresses, our staff will be about the organizations distinctive character developing more strategies to ensure that is widely spread. Over the past several years, our culture guides our work. Our “little our staff has worked diligently to put into people” will be heard. Their ideas will be place tangible definitions of our culture We are respectful to children when we valued. They will have the chance to pause and expectations, defining our values and provide interesting materials for them to and think and share. They will be met at their learning goals. Last year we revisited our investigate and allowing time to work with level and shown confidence in their abilities. core beliefs about children and how that these materials. We worked to organize They will develop flexibility and learn from frames our work. From our theories, we classroom time so these can be longer their mistakes. They will have opportunites decided our year focus will be on respect. periods of exploration. Children can go to learn empathy. deeper into their work, building higher, changing strategies when their project fails, And, all while having a lot of fun at BISNS! and engaging with peers on resolutions. Just like adults, children want time to finish their work, so we respectfully give advance warnings when transitions are about to occur. We develop active learners when we allow children to be curious, ask questions and share theories, rather than “teaching” them topic by topic.

We show respect to children by believing Our summer training included learning in their capabilities. We give them practice about the growing brain and it’s relationship time and encourage them to develop the to behavior. Brain research tells us that skills to do things for themselves, such as children under the age of three are driven picking their own art materials, retrieving by emotions, not logic. They want and their lunch boxes and opening containers need control of their world. We can respect independently. We provide oportunities to children by using techniques that honor develop the ability of dressing themselves. their desires, and still get results we want. One simple example of this is to give a Just look at their face when they say, “I did child choices. “You can put your coat on by it!” and you will see a child with confidence! yourself, or I can help you.” The child feels powerful making the choice and the coat We also honor children when we allow gets worn; well, most of the time! them to be a part of decision making. In OCTOBER 2019 13 OCTOBER 2019 SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY 1 2 Administrative Offices Closed For the detailed High Holiday service schedule, visit www.bnaiisraelcong.org/highholidays 7:16 PM Havdalah

2nd Day of Rosh Hashanah 6 7 8 9 9:15 AM Aleph Isn't Tough with Netta 10:00 AM Sisterhood: Drop-In 12:00 PM Administrative Administrative Offices Closed Asner Begins p. 6 Mah Jongg p. 21 Offices Close 12:30 PM Choosing to Be Chosen 10:00 AM Garden of Remebrance 12:30 PM Lunch & Learn with p. 9 Memorial Service p. 8 Rabbi Schnitzer p. 6 Candlelighting after 1:30 PM Bridging the Divide 10:00 AM Sisterhood: Chicks Who Stitch 6:21 PM Between American and Israeli p. 21 6:20 PM Kol NIdre Jews p. 9 10:30 Judean Memorial Gardens 3:00 PM Emerging from the Memorial Service p. 8 Whale 2:30 PM Garden of Remebrance 3:45 PM Ask the Rabbi 6:00 PM Neilah Memorial Service p. 8 7:15 PM Shofar 2:30 PM Social Action: Volunteering at A Wider Circle p. 20 Eve of Yom Kippur Yom Kippur 13 14 15 16 10:30 AM Sisterhood: Lunch & 6:15 PM Candlelighting Administrative Offices Closed Administrative Learn in the Sukkah p. 21 6:30 PM Congregational Sukkot Dinner 9:00 AM Festival Service Offices Closed 5:00 PM Open Sukkah p. 10 p. 10 10:30 AM Sukkot Family Brunch 9:00 AM Festival Service 8:00 PM 20s & 30s Evening p. 10 11:00 AM Tots Service Under the Stars: Sukkot Wine & 11:00 AM Tots Service 12:30 PM Minha Cheese p. 10 11:00 AM Junior Congregation 5:00 PM Open Sukkah 12:30 PM Minha p. 10 Candlelighting after 6:55 PM

Eve of Sukkot 1st Day of Sukkot 2nd Day of Sukkot Hol Hamoed Sukkot 20 21 22 23 11:00 AM Sukkat Shalom: Creating a Administrative Offices Closed Administrative Offices Shelter of Peace for Today's Refugees 9:00 AM Festival Service Closed and Asylum Seekers with Chelsey Berlin 11:00 AM Tots Service 9:00 AM Festival Service p. 7 11:00 AM Junior Congregation11:00 1:00 PM Minha 12:15 PM Bonim: Sukkot Crafts p. 17 AM Yizkor 8:00 PM Ma'ariv 12:30 PM Minha Shemini Atzeret Eve 5:30 PM Simhat Torah BBQ p. 11 6:04 PM Candlelighting 6:30 PM Festival Service

Candlelighting after 6:41 PM

Hoshanah Rabbah Shemini Atzeret Simhat Torah 27 28 29 30 9:30 AM Is This Any Way to 9:30 AM Health & Fitness Expo Speaker 10:00 AM Sisterhood: p. 4 Bingo at the Hebrew Run a Country with Steve 10:00 AM Health & Fitness Expo Opens Home p. 21 Kerbel Begins p. 6 p. 4 12:15 PM Kadima: Israel Day p. 17 12:15 PM USY: Candy Sushi Making p. 17 Rosh Hodesh Rosh Hodesh

14 OCTOBER 2019 Sunday 9:00 AM | 8:00 PM Friday 7:15 AM | 6:15 PM DAILY Monday–Thursday 7:15 AM | 8:00 PM Saturday 9:00 AM | 12:30 PM MINYAN *Please note: Service times vary on Yom Kippur and Simhat Torah. Changes are noted on the calendar.

THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

3 4 5 Vayelech 6:30 PM Men's Club: Men's Night 5:45 PM Wine & Cheese October Birthday Shabbat Out ROMEO Dinner p. 22 Reception p. 12 10:15 AM Gold Kippah Chug 10:30 AM Junior Congregation (grades K–6) 11:00 AM Tot Shabbat (ages 5 and under with parent) 6:39 PM Candlelighting 4:30 PM Shabbat Afternoon Talmud Study p. 12 7:09 PM Havdalah

10 11 12 Ha'azinu 12:00 PM HAZAK: America's Bar Mitzvah of Joshua Singer Jewish Women from Colonial 9:00 AM Shabbat Morning Torah Study p. 12 Times to Today with Pamela Nadel 10:15 AM Gold Kippah Chug p. 7 10:30 AM Junior Congregation (grades K-6) 11:00 AM Tot Shabbat (ages 5 and under with parent) 12:30 PM Shabbat Shenanigans p. 12 4:30 PM Shabbat Afternoon Talmud Study p. 12 6:59 PM Havdalah

6:18 PM Candlelighting

17 18 19 Bar Mitzvah of Daniel Schlactus 6:00 PM Pizza in the Hut p. 10 10:00 AM 5th Grade Family Brunch 10:15 AM Gold Kippah Chug 10:30 AM Mini Minyan (grades K–2) 10:30 AM Junior Congregation (grades 3–6) 10:30 AM Teen Minyan 6:08 PM Candlelighting 11:00 AM Tot Shabbat (ages 5 and under with parent) 4:30 PM Shabbat Afternoon Talmud Study p. 12 6:48 PM Havdalah Hol Hamoed Sukkot Hol Hamoed Sukkot Hol Hamoed Sukkot

24 25 26 Bereshit Machar: Shabbat Dinner p. 17 9:00 AM Shabbat Morning Torah Study p. 12 10:00 AM Shabbat Morning Alternative Session p. 12 10:15 AM Gold Kippah Chug 10:30 AM Junior Congregation (grades K-6) 10:30 AM Three Year Old Classes Family Brunch 11:00 AM Tot Shabbat and Three Year Old Shabbat (ages 5 and under with parent) 4:30 PM Shabbat Afternoon Talmud Study p. 12 6:37 PM Havdalah 5:58 PM Candlelighting

31 1 2 Noach 9:30 AM Social Justice: The Heart B'nai Mitzvah of Gregory Kahn, Jessi Kahn, and Lilli Kahn of Judaism in Theory and Practice November Birthday Shabbat with Rabbis Pokras, Raskin, Safra, 10:00 AM Family Minyan (see page 12) and Weiss Begins p. 6 11:00 AM Tot Shabbat (ages 5 and under with parent) 4:30 PM Shabbat Afternoon Talmud Study p. 12 5:50 PM Candlelighting 6:32 PM Havdalah

OCTOBER 2019 15 goats interacting and listening to their bleats, when I turned my head and saw the most incredible sight: a bush. OCTOBER

Purple flowers caught my attention first Shabbat Magic with their symmetry and vibrancy. But Youth Programs suddenly, my awareness encompassed a small landscape teeming with life that seemed to simply appear there as if by magic. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5 Wild berries, ants, flies, and more flowers. October Birthday Shabbat 10:15 AM Gold Kippah Chug I couldn’t take my eyes off a black beetle 10:30 AM Junior Congregation with stunning iridescent wings crawling (grades K–6) around the leaves. Had this always been 11:00 AM Tot Shabbat (ages 5 and YOUTH & here? As our forefather Jacob said, “Mah under with parent) EDUCATION norah hamakom hazeh—How awesome is 11:40 AM Youth Kiddush honoring this place. Achein yesh Adonai bamakom all of our October Birthdays by RABBI PENINA ALEXANDER 12:00 PM Congregational Kiddush Assistant Principal hazeh v’anochi lo yada’ati—Truly, God was in this place and I did not know.” (Genesis SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12 28:10, 16) 10:15 AM Gold Kippah Chug 10:30 AM Junior Congregation Have you ever looked at a bush? I mean, Now that the days of summer are long past (grades K-6) really looked at a bush? Honestly, until this 11:00 AM Tot Shabbat (ages 5 and and our busy lives have resumed, I ask summer, I don’t think I ever had. under with parent) myself how to stay connected to the sense A highlight of my summer was participating of awe and wonder I experienced by looking SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19 in a week-long retreat with the Institute of closely at the natural world. Fortunately, our 10:00 AM 5th Grade Family Brunch 10:15 AM Gold Kippah Chug Jewish Spirituality, held mostly in silence. It tradition gets us outside our routines and the comfort of our homes by commanding us to 10:30 AM Mini Minyan (grades K–2) was an incredible gift that I gave to myself. 10:30 AM Junior Congregation and Each day, I prayed, meditated, practiced dwell in the sukkah. 5th Grade Shabbat (grades 3–6) yoga and ate delicious food, some of which 10:30 AM Teen Minyan was grown onsite, at a pace that I envy now. I The festival of Sukkot is one of my favorite 11:00 AM Tot Shabbat (ages 5 and under with parent) slowed down, breathed more and connected holidays precisely because it removes us from our routines and reacquaints us with the much of my Jewish learning to what I was SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26 cycles of nature as well as with our families experiencing in my body and mind. The 10:15 AM Gold Kippah Chug silence served as way to focus as well as a and communities. Seek ways to involve 10:30 AM Junior Congregation reminder to be judicious about the words we children in creating and decorating the (grades K-6) use when it is time to talk. This is a lesson sukkah or preparing food for meals. Sukkot 10:30 AM Three Year Old Classes Family Brunch that I am working on with my own kids: reminds us that we don’t only need to be in silence or in meditative or boisterous prayer 11:00 AM Tot Shabbat and Three “Say little, do much.” (Mishnah Avot 1:15) Year Old Shabbat (ages 5 and to have a powerful spiritual experience; the under with parent) One morning, during our regular meditation opportunities are there for us to enjoy. What session, our leader, Rabbi Sheila Peltz is required, however, is the willingness to Weinberg, invited us to do a walking slow down, bring our awareness to the vitality of the present moment and recognize meditation. There are a few ways to do Family Minyan NEW this, but that day, she sent us outside to that God is indeed in this place. Saturday, November 2 this walk carefully, gaze intently and open our 10:00 AM year! hearts to what we might find. I walked Gather as a family for this slowly through the tall grass out in the field, special Shabbat morning service with meaningful learning, spirited prayer, and noticing how it felt to walk and repeating a engaging Torah reading. All are welcome mantra to myself: shamayma: toward the to attend. heavens and artza: toward the earth. It kept me feeling balanced between the two great If you would like a leadership role in realms. I was paying close attention to the the service, contact Rabbi Berkowitz ([email protected]).

16 OCTOBER 2019 questions, learning from someone who has been in tough situations and has overcome them to become a better person and live a happier, more fulfilling life.

These sessions are a new project this year, and we have high hopes that this will change the way we do some of our holiday and service-based programming for the teens, helping them to get more out of their time here and more out of their experiences with their peers.

I am very excited for this year to be underway and I can't wait to see returning YOUTH EVENTS NEW by SARAH JARVIS youth all around the synagogue (and get to this Director of Youth Engagement know those new faces I see!). Get ready year! for an amazing year with the B’nai Israel SHABBAT Youth Department and be on the lookout for SHENANIGANS Now that the year is underway, and the High information about all upcoming programs. Holidays are upon us, I have taken some Saturday, October 12 time to reflect on our new High Holiday 12:15–1:15 PM* teen program, which offers our teens the Carl & Doris Lane opportunity to participate in breakout Games and fun for grades K–12 sessions of their choosing, in addition to the YOUTH students on the second Saturday of High Holiday services that we offer. One DEPARTMENT each month. Sports, activities, board of the sessions focuses on atonement, and games, crafts, and more for you and how atonement is the concept of returning to EVENTS your friends. Contact Sarah Jarvis, oneself. Each year we are reminded yet again Director of Youth Engagement, for to be who we really are and start again on a more information. fresh note with the Jewish New Year. We are BONIM (K–2) having a lot of open dialogue during these Sukkot Crafts *Please note new time. breakout sessions, and I believe that this is Sunday, October 20 a great way for the teens of B’nai to get to 12:15–2:00 PM know each other better by learning about Decorate Sukkot crafts to get you into how their peers handle various situations. the spirit of the holiday! COLLEGE Some of the other themes that we are MACHAR (3–5) discussing are water conservation and our Shabbat Dinner CONNECTION! environmental impact on the world. As Friday, October 25 the world around us changes, we learn that Bring in Shabbat with your Machar If you are a college student or the we are responsible for what is happening friends and enjoy yummy food and parent of one, sign up for College to it. The teens will discuss their personal treats! Connection today. Packages have environmental impact, as well as how included Starbucks gift cards, holidays they wish to see the world change in a KADIMA (6–8) gifts, candy, and more. positive way. We are discussing the fears Israel Day and questions they have about life after Sunday, October 27 Don't miss out! high school, whether that be a gap year or 12:15–2:00 PM www.bnaiisraelcong.org/college deciding which university to attend. They Hang out with Netta and learn a little are learning about what the High Holidays about where she comes from and enjoy are like in Israel, and how this compares and some yummy Israeli goodies. contrasts with the experience of celebrating here in America. USY (9–12) Candy Sushi Making Register Online for The session I am most excited for and that Sunday, October 27 YOUTH GROUPS I think will have the greatest impact on our 12:15–2:00 PM Make some yummy candy sushi and see teen community is a session that will be led www.bnaiisraelcong.org/ by a speaker from the National Coalition for who can make the most impressive roll! youthdeptregistration the Homeless. This session’s goals are to help the teens become comfortable asking

OCTOBER 2019 17 have lived there for the past 15 years. As a result, I am blunt and tachles (straight miihxq to the point). As much as I would like to share my experiences with you, I want to SERETIME hear about your ideas and experiences even Israeli Movie Night more. Let’s talk about those subjects that you have always wanted to talk about, but have instead let go to avoid “those” conversations. I think that the most important conversations can come from that—whether it be politics, religion, Israeli officials, beliefs, or Israeli populations, I am here to have “those” conversations. israel corner So, if you are interested in talking about by NETTA ASNER any Israel-related subject, I would love to Congregational Shlicha talk about it with you during Kiddush on The Wedding Plan Shabbat, or over coffee during the week. Being an Israeli emissary is not only about Thursday, November 7 Let’s Talk about Israel! offering programs and events (which I love 6:30 PM and am excited about), but it is also about The first B’nai Israel event that I attended being able to build real connections through How do you plan a wedding with only a was the B’nai Israel Schilit Nursery School conversations about Israel. So, let’s talk bride? Find out in our first Seretime of picnic at Cabin John Park. I met a parent about Israel! the year! In The Wedding Plan, Michal, who started asking me about the new HBO an Orthodox Jew, puts her faith in God to show, “Our Boys.” This mini-series is about Wishing a Shanah Tovah and Hag Sameah find a new groom for the original wedding the violent attacks in June 2014 that led up to you and your family! date after the groom breaks off their to “Operation Protective Edge.” engagement. Directed by Rama Burshtein, Israel’s first female ultra-orthodox director, the film explores the ultra-orthodox world Asking me about this show gave me the and the concept of faith. opportunity to share that I had just begun my military service when this occurred and The congregational shlicha program is A short discussion after the film will be my personal feelings about this situation. made possible by a partnership with the about when we rely on faith, and where we But more importantly, it opened up a Jewish Federation of Greater Washington. draw the line. conversation, and an opportunity to share our thoughts and emotions about a difficult There is no charge for this event, however but important subject. reservations are appreciated to Netta As- NOSH ner, Congregational Shlicha (netta@bnaiis- It is sometimes difficult to open up the raelcong.org). subject of Israel when you first want to make a connection, as feelings are mixed. On one hand, Israel is the Jewish state that we have supported and continue to do so. My role here at B’nai Israel as an Israeli emissary with is proof of that fact. However, the words Netta and actions of Israel’s leaders, politicians, and the Rabbinate have caused animosity and created distance. Rather than avoiding Choose an Israeli dish to cook together these complicated topics, or leaving them with me. I’ll bring the ingredients to for a rainy day, I would love to speak with your home, we’ll cook it together, and you about them! And we should talk about I’ll share about the origin of the dish. It’s them. Even if our views disagree, engaging free food, it’s Israeli, and it’s with me! in dialogue offers an opportunity to learn, to explore, to open ourselves up to others. I For more information and to schedule, would love to learn from you and hear your contact me ([email protected], ideas and opinions. 240-388-8077).

Although my English might be misleading, I consider myself to be from Israel and I

18 OCTOBER 2019 SUGGESTED Reading

Adults On Repentance: The Thought and Oral Discourses of Rabbi Joseph Dov Soloveitchik   by Pinchas Peli What Is the Reason? Yom Kippur by Chaim Press Food for The Spirit: Inspirational Lessons  from the Yom Kippur Service by Shmuel Herzfeld A Guide to Sukkot by Rabbi Isaac Fabricant We are all touched by Themes of Succos In Halacha and Agada by B’nai Israel. It makes a difference BLUMBERG-ZALIS Rabbi Raphael Pelcovitz Simchas Torah: Shemini Atzeres—Simchas in our lives. And it is our endeavor to FAMILY LIBRARY Torah: Its Significance, Laws and Prayers ensure that it makes a difference in our by JILL GENDELMAN by Moshe Lieber community for many years to come. Librarian High Holy Days and Sukkot Melodies CD Together in Prayer: Achad B'tefila: Shaharit I hope everyone had a lovely Rosh Hashanah. Melodies As our parents planted for us, let us sow This month we will observe Yom Kippur the seeds that will make a difference for followed by the festive celebrations of Teens/Tweens our children and grandchildren. Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret and ending with Shake a Palm Branch by Miriam Chaikin –Talmud Ta’anit 23a Simhat Torah. If you’d like to learn more Sukkot: A Time to Rejoice by Malka Drucker about the holidays, see the suggested reading Shaking in the Shack by Dori Weinstein list below and for even more holiday books, Tanta Teva and the Magic Booth by Joel movies and music search our Library Lurie Grishaver CREATE YOUR JEWISH website: https://www.bnaiisraelcong.org/ Apples and Pomegranates by Rahel Musleah LEGACY education/library-resources/, the click on the The Jewish Holiday Treasure Trail by www.jewishlegacygw.org highlighted word on-line catalog. I suggest Naomi Patz using the “All” search and entering each The Holiday Adventures of Achbar by holiday name in its variations of spelling, Barbara Sofer As we celebrate our successes, we e.g., Succoth, Sukkot, Sukkah, Succos, one are grateful for the commitment and at a time. No need for a password, just move Children generosity of those who came before the books into your bookbag and send me Does God Forgive Me by August Gold us. Dues and annual donations do not a copy (see library email below). Need a The Yom Kippur Think by Miriam Feinberg provide sufficient resources for all we demonstration? Stop into the library during Talia and the Very YUM Kippur by Linda must do to sustain Jewish life at B’nai library hours and Beth or I would be happy Elovitz Marshall Israel. And so we invite and encourage to show you how to access the catalog. Maya Prays for Rain by Susan Tarcov you to create your own legacy. Why Does it Always Rain on Sukkot? by Thank you to all who attended the Susan Schaalman Youdovin September’s book discussion of The Sadie's Sukkah Breakfast by Jamie Korngold Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin (great The Littlest Tree by Sylvia Rouss It is so easy to make a planned gift or book). Below is a list of the upcoming The Sefer Torah Parade by Tzivia Adler bequest through B’nai Israel’s Create a books and dates we will be discussing them. Rebbezin Tap & Friends: Jewish Holiday Jewish Legacy Program. Simply include All books are available in your B’nai Israel Celebration (DVD) B’nai Israel in your estate planning as Blumberg-Zalis Library. a beneficiary in your will, under your retirement plan or life insurance policy. UPCOMING Programs LIBRARY HOURS It carries no financial obligation in the Sunday 9:00 AM–12:30 PM present, but it will have a huge and Wednesday Book Discussions Monday 9:00 AM–1:00 PM lasting impact on our future. November 6 Mother Country by Irina Reyn Tuesday 9:00 AM–1:00 PM January 8 Kaddish.com by Nathan Englander 4:30–8:30 PM Closed Shabbat and Holidays March 4 Lone Soldiers by Leo Rozmaryn Hal Ossman May 6 Lost Girls of Paris by Pam Jenoff Executive Director June 3 Larry Felder, Candidate by Bob Levy 301-881-6550, ext. 524 301-816-5563 [email protected] [email protected] www.bnaiisraelcong.org/library

OCTOBER 2019 19 SOCIAL ACTION

caring corner BY SHANA FRENKEL, B’nai Israel Families LCSW-C Synagogue Liaison Volunteering Together at Preparing Lunch at the A Wider Circle Interfaith Works Women’s Sunday, October 6 2:30–4:00 PM Shelter Social media. This is the discussion many 9159 Brookville Road Sunday, November 3 parents have with their children. How much 11:30 AM Silver Spring, MD 20910 usage, what kind of usage, and what to do 2 Taft Court, Rockville How can your family help others in our about limiting screen time. community? Join us to make a difference in See page 22 for details. our community. A Wider Circle’s Essential Why does this even matter? Adolescents Support program provides basic need items and teenagers feel socially suppressed when for the home to our neighbors seeking to not engaging with their peers on social rise out of poverty. We will sort donations Support B’nai Israel’s media. Adolescents and teenagers maintain and stock the showrooms. Please RSVP by a communal relationship through social Wednesday, October 2 to Rachel Lanman media, including Facebook, Twitter, Vines, ([email protected]) or Michelle Finkel PROJECT Snapchat, and more. For many, connecting ([email protected]). through social media allows for a particular MANNA form of self-disclosure. They want to share Urgently Needed Food more with the social media world. Items (though we take all nonperishable food items) People often share 30–40% of their lives face-to-face, and online, they share • Instant Oatmeal Packets approximately 80% of their experiences (Original Flavor) with others. This creates two effects. The AmazonSmile is a simple and automatic • Brown Rice first effect is the more adolescents and way for you to support B'NAI ISRAEL • Whole Grain Pasta teenagers share their life, the more positive • Tuna/Salmon/Chicken (in Water) CONGREGATION every time you reinforcement they receive, which only • Dry/Canned Beans (Low Sodium) reinforces their desire to share with others. shop, at no cost to you. When you shop • Natural Nut Butters When using social media, one speaks with a at www.smile.amazon.com, Amazon will • Canned Vegetables (Low Sodium) donate a portion of the purchase price to • Canned Fruit (in Juice) different voice, often disclosing information your favorite charitable organization. • Fruit Cups to friends and acquaintances that would not • Shelf-stable Individual Milk Boxes otherwise be discussed in person. People’s On your first visit towww.smile.amazon. • Cooking Oils & Spices ability to socially and emotionally engage com, select B'nai Israel Congregation with their peers is inversely affected by one’s in Rockville to receive donations Thank you for your commitment to usage of social media. from eligible purchases before you this life-giving mitzvah! begin shopping. Your selection will be All food items will be directed to Primarily engaging on social media remembered, and every eligible purchase the Manna Food Center. influences brain development and changes you make will result in a donation. brain stimulation and brain functioning. Engrossing oneself in social media stimulates the release of dopamine, one of the brain’s neurotransmitters, in the brain. Dopamine sends reward and gives instant gratification

CONTINUED ON PAGE 27. 20 OCTOBER 2019 SISTERHOOD News

Sisterhood Membership Bingo at the Hebrew Home Join us for another wonderful year and Tuesdays, 10:00–11:30 AM get involved in our many activities and Wasserman: November 5 programs by joining or renewing your Smith/Kogod: October 29, November 19 Sisterhood membership. For questions Contact Dottie Cohen (301-881-7115, contact Lisa Isenberg (Partyonus@gmail. [email protected]). com) or Mona El-Gamil (melgamil54@ gmail.com). Sisterhood Fall Dinner Wednesday November 13 Torah Fund “CHESED” 6:30 PM 2019–2020 Join us for a Chinese dinner and entertainment from Robyn Helzner; Photo by Emily Koo Support JTS with a donation to Kreplach and Dim Sum; There are Jews Torah Fund. This year’s pin is CHESED in China. Membership dues are $36 and (kindness). Watch your mail for information. Drop-in Mah Jongg dinner is $25. For questions contact Lisa Contact Debra Fredman, Torah Fund Chair Mondays, 10:00 AM–12:00 PM Isenberg ([email protected]) or Mona ([email protected]) or Cheryl Rod Every Monday when B’nai Israel offices El-Gamil ([email protected]). ([email protected]) with questions. are open.

Torah Fund Tea 2019 Mah Jongg Cards Chicks Who Stitch Sunday afternoon, November 17 Sunday, October 6 Location to be Announced The Sisterhood Judaica Shop is now selling 10:00 AM–12:00 PM A special thank you event for all those who the 2019 Mah Jongg Cards. Standard Card Bring your knitting, crocheting, have made their contribution to Women’s is $8.00, Large Card is $9.00. Needlepoint project or any handicraft League Torah Fund this year. This intimate that you are working on and join us as we afternoon will celebrate Torah Fund and all create, talk and help each other, and have a that it does to serve the various institutions Washington Jewish Week fun time doing it. We'll provide the noshes, that train the future leaders of Conservative To renew or start a subscription, contact you provide the friendship. For questions, Judaism. Linda Reisner ([email protected]). contact Harriet Levi (301-589-3957).

Game Day—All are Welcome! Blanket Making Lunch & Learn in the Sukkah Thursday, November 21 B’nai Israel Sisterhood continues our long- Wednesday, October 16 10:00 AM–3:00 PM time relationship with the Blanket Making 10:30 AM–12:30 PM Come play Bridge, Mah Jongg, Canasta, Project of the Montgomery County chapter Netta Asner, our new Congregational or any other game you wish. Cost is $36 of the Maryland Association for Family and Shlicha, will lead us in a lively discussion per person, which includes a dairy lunch. Community Education (MDAFCE). The linking Israel, women and Sukkot. A Please RSVP by November 14. Contact following are some basic guidelines for light lunch from Soupergirl will follow. Sue Edwards (301-984-6329, suzied25@ donating knitted and crochet blankets, fleece No charge but RSVPs strongly requested gmail.com). blankets, and fabric quilts. For complete to Juliann Goldman (juliann.goldman@ instructions, go to the MDAFCE website yahoo.com). (http://mdafce.org/montgomerylinus. Mah Jongg Tournament htm). For more information or to make Sunday, January 12 arrangements for donation, contact Juliann Preparing Lunch at the 9:15 AM–3:00 PM Goldman ([email protected]). Interfaith Works Women’s Meet, play and socialize during this spirited Shelter tournament. RSVP to Joan Barr (301-340- Sunday, November 3 8940, [email protected]) to participate 11:30 AM and with any questions. See page 22.

www.bnaiisraelcong.org/sisterhood

OCTOBER 2019 21 The MEN’S CLUB

Service to B’nai Israel & Community Strengthening Jewish Values Building Friendships

September was a busy month for the Men’s Also, we want to thank the Sisterhood Club, with several successful programs. and the Social Action Committee for co- Many people helped make it successful and sponsoring events with the Men’s Club. It we want to recognize and thank them for is also a pleasure to work with them. their efforts.

First, we want to thank Signe Wetrogan, of the Social Action Committee; Jeff Fredman and Adam Posner, with his son Jonah, of the Men’s Club; and Ester Teller and Linda Heller of the Sisterhood. Our thanks to them for their work in the preparation and/ or serving of food at the Interfaith Works Women’s shelter on September 1st. We prepared and served lunch for over 45 residents in of the shelter. It was a great event. UPCOMING Events Preparing Lunch at the We want to recognize Stu Bushman and Matt Interfaith Works Women’s Gittleson for their terrific work organizing Shelter our Afternoon with Abba program at the Sunday, November 3 Frederick Keys game on September 1st. Men’s Night Out ROMEO Dinner 11:30 AM We had a record turnout of over 55 dads and Thursday, October 3 2 Taft Court, Rockville kids that came to have fun and see the game. 6:30 PM The Men’s Club, Sisterhood and Social at Bombay Bistro Action Committee will be preparing and 98 W. Montgomery Avenue, Rockville We want to thank Michael Greene and Jeff serving lunch on this day. This is a great This new monthly activity is aimed at Men's Fredman for the fantastic job that they did opportunity for adults and kids to work Club empty nesters. ROMEOs (Really Old cooking the brisket and sides for our annual together. There will be various options to Men Eating Out) will meet at a different Brisket and Beer event at 7 Locks Brewery participate including preparing part of the local restaurant for dinner, usually on the meal in your home, helping to prepare on September 10th. The nearly 60 people first Thursday of each month. Contact in attendance came for a fun evening, good items at the synagogue that morning, and/ Mark Berlin ([email protected]) or helping to serve the meal at the shelter. beer, friends and new acquaintances, and a for more information or to register. terrific kosher brisket meal thanks to Michael If you are interested in participating, please and Jeff. Kudos guys. contact Wayne ([email protected]). Open Board Meeting Finally, we want to give a special thanks to Sunday, October 6 Please join us and invite a B'nai friend Steve Goldberg, for all his work to organize 10:00 AM to join you! For more information on and arrange our September 18th dinner Join us to help guide the programs of the these programs, the Men’s Club, and how with Gideon Amir, who spoke on potential Men’s Club. to get involved, contact Wayne Berman impacts of the recent Israeli elections. ([email protected]) or Lewis Gertz Over 60 people attended. Thanks Steve. ([email protected]). Thanks always go to our Men’s Club Food Family Health and Fitness Expo committee for preparing the food that makes Sunday, October 27 all of these programs so successful. 9:30 AM–1:00 PM See page 4 for details.

www.bnaiisraelcong.org/mensclub

22 OCTOBER 2019 mazal tov aeh lfn October Anniversaries Corey and Rachel Anolik – 27 Rob and April Kaplan – 28 Ricky and Lisa Shofnos – 2 Jeffrey Pollak and Karen Foxman – 28 SISTERHOOD Brian and Margie Tommer – 2 Stuart and Karyn Tauber – 29 JUDAICA SHOP Stephen and Sharon Levine – 4 Darryl and Debra Feldman – 30 301-770-7577 Darren and Melissa Bernstein – 5 Joel and Nellie Grover – 30 Jonathan and Oren Shamay Draluck – 5 Scott and Jill Needleman – 30 Sukkot is here and your Judaica Shop Daniel Cohen and Nikki Herson – 7 Grant and Ellen Ottenstein – 30 has all you will need to decorate Norman and Anne Silberman – 7 Michael and Lesley Schrier – 30 your sukkah with meaning. We Doug and Julie Braunstein – 8 Mitch and Nicole Nydish – 31 have posters, foil grapes and plastic Stuart and Marlene Schooler – 8 fruit. We have all different sizes of Steven and Sheri Schlafstein – 9 plush Torah’s for your children and grandchildren. Come in and peruse Mark and Jodi Shulimson – 9 and Mazal Tov to... all our beautiful items. Your shop has Dan Fisher and Ellen Rice – 10 something for everyone. Michael and Lisa Miller – 11 Jacqueline and Dr. Bernard Greenbaum Barry and Audrey Suskind – 11 on the birth of their grandson, Cameron Gerald and Leslie Solomon – 12 Drew McFarlane. Jeffrey and Julie Bethke – 13 Jared and Cindy Entin – 13 Ruth and Andrew Ritwo on the birth of Bram and Gina Hass – 13 their granddaughter, Ella Sophia Milberg. Michael and Lauren Krauthamer – 13 Joseph and Karen Krupsaw – 13 Dr. Seymour Hepner on the birth of his Sol and Suzy Levy – 14 granddaughter, Simone Emanuela Hepner. Oran Tal and Michelle Rojas-Tal – 14 Stephen Hoffman and Kim Lee Sim – 16 Beverly and Rabbi Jonathan Schnitzer on Jared and Jamie Maier – 16 the birth of their grandson, Benjamin Noah Matthew and Andrea Nadelman – 16 Bergeron Schnitzer. To special order personalized kippot Mark and Beth Redmiles – 16 and benchers for your simcha, Contact Dean and Ellyn Gutridge – 17 Leah and Allan Zendel on the birth of their Suzy Levy (301-460-9636). Scott and Barbara Sanford – 17 granddaughter, Claire Zendel Gendreau. Wayne and Terri Kramer – 18 SHOP HOURS Robert and Susan Kruger – 20 Sunday Jackie and Jeidy Levandez on the birth Richard and Diane Saltzman – 20 9:00 AM–12:30 PM of their daughter, Sophia Rose Levandez. Monday–Friday Ken and Lara Kaufmann – 21 10:00 AM–12:30 PM Ken and Mona Levine – 21 Tuesday (all day) Phil and Ellen Ratner – 21 10:00 AM–6:00 PM Jonathon Nevett and Karen Post – 22 Robert and Anne Rubinovitz – 22 For special appointments outside of There is ALWAYS normal business hours, contact Dottie Charles and Diane Edwards – 23 something happening (301-881-7115), Miriam (301-649-3770) Matthew and Lori Eig – 23 or Debbie (240-686-6727). Scott and Amy Goff – 23 at B’nai Israel! Andrew and Phyllis Isaacson – 23 We accept all credit cards, cash and Gennady and Victoria Vinokur – 23 STAY CONNECTED checks. Kory and Amy Hankin – 24 Aaron and Beth Parker – 24 If you are not receiving our Doug and Rachel Sunshine – 25 electronic Community Connections, FOR ALL YOUR Bobby and Karen Epstein – 26 please send your email address to JUDAICA NEEDS! Harvey and Barbara Katzen – 26 [email protected].

OCTOBER 2019 23 IN SYMPATHY dkxal mpexkf Join Us by Telephone Visit When You Cannot Be MyJewishGeneticHealth.com at Services a free website designed to educate B'nai Israel Congregation mourns the Jewish community about the loss of our beloved member: Open your siddur or humash at home genetic health conditions for which or away from home and participate in they may be at higher risk. SHELDON GROSBERG our Shabbat, festival, and High Holy Day services. Follow the reading of MyJewishGeneticHealth.com the Torah, study the parasha together consists of individual “lessons” We extend our sincerest sympathy to with the congregation, listen to the covering various topics relevant to the our members who have experienced comments of the rabbis on the many Jewish community, including specific recent losses: concerns of Jewish life, offer personal prayers, and sing familiar melodies diseases and medical conditions, genetic along with the hazzan and our B’nai technologies, and bioethical issues. Alexis Anolik on the loss of her Israel community. grandmother, Glenda Gay Edwards. Participants will be able to call into Hymie Rosenberg on the loss of his the B’nai Israel phone system between sister, Zelda Green. 9:00 AM–12:00 PM and listen to the live audio of our service in the Dweck Sanctuary. Judy Grosberg on the loss of her husband, Sheldon Grosberg. DIAL-IN 1. Dial 1-929-436-2866 BEREAVEMENT Suzy Levy on the loss of her brother, 2. Enter meeting ID: 788 352 437 # Alan Katzman. 3. You will be connected to the live COMMITTEE Dweck Sanctuary audio. Are you interested in learning more Amanda Stein on the loss of her NEW about the Bereavement Committee? grandmother, Ruth Levine. This group provides needed support to VIDEO LIVESTREAM families who have had a recent death, Elvira Blanco on the loss of her sister, https://zoom.us/j/788352437 and also in helping to prepare families Natalia Michan. for this moment.

If you are interested and would like to Barry Suskind on the loss of his mother, learn more, please contact Alice Harris Charlotte “CJ” Simon. ([email protected]) or Susan Weinmann (susanw.mikew@gmail. Janet and Eddie Aaronson on the loss of B’NAI ISRAEL com). their sister-in-law, Phyllis West. CEMETERIES

B’nai Israel Congregation maintains three attractive cemetery locations.

For information about the B'nai Israel Oxon Hill Cemetery, or our sections at Judean Memorial Gardens or Garden of Remembrance, please contact Executive Director Hal Ossman (301-816-5563, hossman@ bnaiisraelcong.org).

24 OCTOBER 2019 B’nai Israel Congregation deeply appreciates all contributions directed to the various funds of our congregation.

Please note: DONATIONSDue to increased printing and labor costs: Etz Hayim Humash 1. Each contribution will be acknowledged by mail to one designated recipient. dedication: $60, 2. Only contributions of $18 or more will be printed in the Scroll. Siddur Sim Shalom 3. Donor acknowledgements will be sent by email and will also appear on year-end statements. dedication: $30

Donations Made in August | DONATIONS CAN BE MADE AT bnaiisraelcong.org

Louis and Helyn Fanaroff Sustaining Endowment Jay, Gail, Emily and Olivia Wasserman ENDOWMENTS In Memory Of: Communications Endowment Nathan Bobrow by Debby and Gary Bortnick and In Memory Of: Abrutyn Family Leadership Endowment Family Esther Crystal by Lynn and Michael Gittleson In Memory Of: The Bobrow family’s beloved husband, father and Steve Kerbel’s mother, Ruth Kerbel by Vickie grandfather, Dr. Nathan Bobrow by Sharon Seidel Wilma and Ron Lenkin Holocaust Education Abrutyn Endowment Mandel and Stein Prayer Book Fund A Speedy Recovery For: Arnold and Sylvia Heft Sustaining Endowment In Memory Of: Matlee Yadin by Ellen and Jake Rothmel In Memory Of: Gertrude Klastorin Mandel by Rita, Chet, Jonathan, In Appreciation Of: Herbie Heft by Marty and Harriet Feldman Amanda, Emma Goldie, and Benjamin Sidney Stein Rabbi Berkowitz for his kindness, support, and compassion during the loss of Susan Canter by Robin Beverly G. Schnitzer Tikun Olam Endowment Miriam Tommer Endowment for the Judaica Shop and Craig Lenkin and Family In Memory Of: In Honor Of: Rabbi Safra for his kindness, support, and compassion Art Rayman by Suzy and Sol Levy Sheldon and Miriam Tommer’s 60th wedding during the loss of Susan Canter by Robin and Craig Marc Goldstein by Suzy and Sol Levy anniversary by Barbara and Richard Daumit Lenkin and Family The birth of Miriam and Sheldon Tommer’s great Rabbi Schnitzer for his kindness, support, and Edith and Charles Pascal Yom Ha’Atzmaut grandson Brody Elliot Cines by Susan and Brett Lazerus compassion during the loss of Susan Canter by Robin Programming Endowment and Craig Lenkin and Family In Appreciation Of: Rabbi Jeshiah and Hilde M. Schnitzer Israel and Steve Kerbel for the thoughtful shiva service for Susan Cantor Josh Perlman for Yischmechu and enriching Camp Ramah Scholarship Endowment Fund Canter by Robin and Craig Lenkin and Family Shabbat by Paula Pascal Levine In Honor Of: In Memory Of: Ethan Ross Alperstein Sanctuary Garden Fund Scott, Sarah and Amy Fleischer’s participation in the Arthur Rayman by Sylvia Rozines In Memory Of: Shabbat service by Nicholas and Jo‑Anne Fleischer Marilyn Tublin’s beloved son, Robert Tublin by Wilma Nathan Bobrow by Janet and Eddie Aaronson Rabbi Jonathan Schnitzer for another Lunch n’ Learn and Ron Lenkin year of leadership, wisdom, and humor by Phyllis and Susan Canter by the Maged Family Hazzan Robert Kieval Music Library Fund Morton Lessans In Appreciation Of: Cantor Josh Perlman by Marilyn Tublin Rabbi Michael Safra Adult Programming Endowment Fund FUNDS Jerry Neil Memorial Sustaining Endowment In Appreciation Of: In Honor Of: Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz for the Wise Aging class by Adult Education Fund The anniversary of Art and Gail Nimetz by Norm and Beverly and Stuart Greenfeig In Memory Of: Marti Jacobs Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz for his contribution to the Arthur Rayman by Judy and Howard Rosen In Memory Of: Wise Aging class by Charlotte Freeman Art Rayman by Norm and Marti Jacobs Rabbi Berkowitz for supporting Wise Aging by Lin Aliyot and Honors Fund Solomon In Appreciation Of: Jonathan A. Schnitzer Rabbinic Chair Endowment Rabbi Safra by Marilyn Tublin My aliyah by Marshall Lewis In Appreciation Of: In Honor Of: Our 32nd wedding anniversary and birthday aliyah on The aufruf aliyah for Stacy Kramer and Josh Kuckley Cantor Ilana Wolpert Music Enrichment Fund August 10 by Stuart and Beverly Markowitz by Judy and Howard Kramer In Honor Of: In Memory Of: Our anniversary aliyah by Judy and Howard Kramer Cantor Ilana Wolpert by Chavurah Re’ut: Meg and Stephen Westerman by Robert and Susan Loewy Rabbi Safra with appreciation for officiating at my Marc Gold, Deedee and Jeremy Jacobsohn, Stefanie Irene Levine and Anne Solowey by Robert and Susan father’s funeral by Paula Post and Fred Langsam, Nancy and Eric Markus, Diane Loewy In Memory Of: and Richard Saltzman, Suzanne and Josh Schonfeld, Hank Modlin’s father Saul Modlin by Hank and Ruth Jodi and Mark Shulimson, Joanne and Steven Jonathan, Suzanne & Amy Schilit Nursery School Modlin Zuckerman Endowment Arthur Rayman by Sheila Chodorov Cantor Ilana by Paula Pascal Levine and Sarah and In Memory Of: Andrew Paul Alfred Levine by Trudy and Steven Anolik and Rachel Rachmill Schlafstein Memorial Bar and Bat Mitzvah Cantor Ilana, wishing her well in her new home by and Corey Anolik Tzedakah Box Endowment Lin Solomon Dorothy Finkel by the Schilit Family In Honor Of: The Kerbel Family’s beloved mother and grandmother, Barbara Panitz’s special birthday by Abby and Phil Ruth Kerbel by the Schilit Family Rogers The Goldstein Family’s beloved father and grandfather, The birth of Liam Warren Anolik by Sheri and Dr. Marc Goldstein by the Schilit Family Steven Schlafstein CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE. OCTOBER 2019 25 General Fund In Memory Of: Ray Evans by Lisa and Alan Isenberg In Appreciation Of: Jeff Mendelson by Karen and Bob Keats Bessie Gildenhorn by Lisa and Larry Cines The B’nai Israel community by Howard Metro Robert Tublin by Karen and Bob Keats Bernard Staller by Luci Altman In Honor Of: Larry Bulman by Karen and Bob Keats Myron Joseph Levine by Margie and Arthur Lappen The special birthday of Barbara Panitz by Amy S. Charles Fruman by Aaron and Florence Engel and Family Gordon Morris Bressler by Adele Goldberg Marian Krampf by Margie and Steven Hofberg Marti Jacobs’ special birthday by Arthur and Gail Jack Pollin by Alan Pollin Eleanor Scherlis and David Scherlis by Marilyn Tublin Nimetz Dorothy Kopstein by Andrea and Melvyn Kopstein Fay Heiserman by Marlyn and Michael Heiserman The bris of our son, Brody Ethan Sudow by Avery and Ben Goldberg by Anita Gross Henry Heiserman by Marlyn and Michael Heisesrman Noah Sudow Evelyn Johnson by Anne Jarrett Albert Book by Martin and Elaine Book Herbert Rosenblum on his birthday by Janet Falk and Said Harouni by Arasteh Moaadel Rose Katleman by Matlee and Mort Yadin Family Heshmat Moaadel by Arasteh Moaadel Jack Chernikoff and Peretz Forman by Michael The special birthday of Herbert Rosenblum by Cantor Herman Westerman by Arnold and Judith Westerman Chernikoff and Lolly Shapero Aaron and Shoshana Marcus Eugene Sussman by Barry and Peggy Sussman Jerry Kurman by Michael Kurman and Patricia Hoff The 50th wedding anniversary of Linda and Jeffrey Saul Modlin by Barry Modlin Eddie Freedman by Mickey and Linda Freedman Reisner by Judy and Jeff Gelfand Miriam Nickelsporn by Beth and Nathan Greenbaum Arthur Rayman by Deborah Rheinstrom Janet Stein’s special birthday by Karen Monsein Esther Horowitz by Betty Casper Rose Greenbaum by Nathan and Beth Greenbaum Herbert Rosenblum’s special birthday by Paula Post Alvin Liptz by Beverly and Joel Reiskin Bernard Fleischer by Nicholas and Jo‑Anne Fleischer Jeffrey and Linda Reisner’s special anniversary by Bernice and William Scharff by Beverly and Raymond Rose Miller by Norman Miller Robert and Ann Albert Scharff Tess Silberman by Norman Silberman In Memory Of: Morton and Sylvia Rosenfeld by Beverly and Stuart Harry Chidakel by Paula Pascal Levine Renie Levine and Anne Solowey by Debbie Miller Greenfeig Ida Lipsky by Philip Goldman Renie Levine by Hanita and Morry Schreiber Jeffrey Gruber by Brian and Hillary Gruber Edith Lebowitz by Richard and Fran Silbert Arthur Rayman by Jay and Joan Eichel Murray Steinberg by Carole and Jerry Cohen Joseph Reff by Richard and Robert Reff Arthur Rayman by Carolyn Pincus Joseph Brenner by Carole Forman Rachel Ovadia by Rita Hatwell Nathan Bobrow by Karen and Doug Monsein Martin Kamerow (Marty) by Connie Kamerow Sarah Kozushin by Rita Kozushin Stephen Westerman by Merika and Tom Hubscher Chava Hirsch by Connie Kamerow Gertrude Klastorin Mandel by Rita, Chet, Jonathan, Stephen Westerman by Ronnie and Norman Sweed Larry M. Rosenstein by Danny and Missy Resenstein Amanda, Emma, and Benjamin Stein Stephen Westerman by Ellen Fabricant Lauretta Irwin by David and Terry Irwin Kurt Gertner by Robert and Marjorie Gertner Art Rayman by Sheila and Joe Levine Lena Glazer by Debbie and Danny Glazer Sylvia Spiegel by Roberta Spiegel Hantman Thelma Kinland, Mark Kinland, Ernest Kaswell, and Benjamin Glazer by Debbie and Danny Glazer Nathan Zaba by Ronnie and Art Chantker Yolande Kaswell by Sherry and Stuart Kaswell Dennis Boone by Deborah and Joel Meisel Al Golden by Rozelle Grossman Leah Mensh by Donald and Iris Mensh Harry Chidakel by Sam and Cindy Pascal HAZAK Robert Dworkin by Dorothy Dworkin Irene (Renie) Levine and Anne Solowey by Shelley and In Honor Of: Brian Lewis by Douglas and Rita Lewis Steve Rothenberg and family Barbara Panitz’s special birthday by Harriet and Ted Dr. Edward Smith and Louis Wishner by Eileen Lena Glazer by Sherry and Larry Wachtel Fredman Wishner Smith Abraham Zitomer by Signe and Leon Wetrogan Esther Paull by Ellen Rothmel Marilyn Fanaroff by Stan Ratner Kiddush Fund Josef Schonberger by Emma Schonberger Rose Dorothy Metro by Stuart Metro In Appreciation Of: Marcus Stern by Esther Bergman Helen Edwards and Lynn Sierra by Sue Edwards Rabbi Berkowitz and the privilege of Kyla’s Irving Gold by Eugene Becker John Pondfield by Susan Pondfield, Bill Mentlik, and participation in the summer speaker series by Gayle Ruth Wertheimer by Evelyn and Norman Levy Dr. Stacey Weinstein and Ted Kaplan Fanny Stark by Evelyn Tabach Sydine Fredman by Ted Fredman In Honor Of: A. Samuel Feldman by Faith‑Robin and Steve Feldman Walter Kirsch by the Kirsch Family My 83rd birthday by Sheila Chodorov Fred Ehrlich by Fred Ehrlich Robert Fish by the Zingeser Family In Memory Of: Mark Langsam by Fred, Stefanie, and Samara Langsam Stuart Bass by Thelma Fisher Art Rayman by Don and Carol Vogel Dvora Vekselman by Frima Gorbach Rosalie Bass by Thelma Fisher Teibel Gelman by Gelman Family Irv Bernstein by Thelma Fisher Men’s Club Sol Seltzer by Helene and Victor Krauthamer and Solomon Nathanson by Toby Kullback A­ Speedy Recovery For: Family Jacob Steppa by Wendy Fanaroff Bernie Rod by Lisa and Alan Isenberg Arthur Rayman by Jamie Butler In Memory Of: Arthur Rayman by Jay Robert Myers Tzedakah and Welfare Fund Art Rayman by Howard Leopold Arthur Rayman by Harvey and Barbara Myers Temkin In Honor Of: Art Rayman by Stacy and Michael Rabinovitz Albert Goldin by Judy and Dick Freeman Lisa and Larry Cines’ grandson Brody Elliot by the Albert Goldin by Laurie and Len Lipton Maggid Family Morning Minyan Fund Melvin Greenfest by Jaye and Robert Greenfest In Memory Of: In Appreciation Of: Marcie Steinberg by Jill and Andy Klein Gertrude Ginsburg by Donald and Iris Mensh Joel Shankman, for his kindness by Billye Roberts Philip I. Rosen by Judy Rosen Cohen The following have made donations in memory of Miriam Revzan and David Revzan by Larry and Linda Youth Activities Fund Arthur “Art” Rayman: Revzan In Honor Of: Arthur and Margie Lappen Avrum Gudelsky by Laurel R.G. Moreno The bar mitzvah of Ethan Daniel, son of Rabbi Michael Stephen and Marjorie Goldberg Abraham Lipton by Laurie and Len Lipton and Sharon Safra by David and Rachel Weinstein David and Yael Moses George Leshner by Lawrence and Linda Revzan The birth of Ruby Eva Berkowitz, daughter of Rebecca Billy Oshinsky Florence Brodsky by Lesley and Bob Gasperow Ravski and Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz by David and Harvey and Harriet Stein Joseph M. Solomon by Lin Solomoon Rachel Weinstein Bram and Gina Hass Irene D. Levine by Linda and Earl Reba In Memory Of: Norma Brodell by Linda and Jeff Reisner and Family Jeff Mendelson by Jackie Mendelson and family Yahrzeit and Yizkor Fund Phillip Margolius by Linda and Stanley Margolius My mother Martha Idowicz by Norma and Ron Karp A Donation Has Been Made By: Murray Boris by Linda Boris Nathan Bobrow by Susan and Milton Koch Mr. and Mrs. Irwin Silberman Julius Boris by Linda Boris In Appreciation Of: Anna Boris by Linda Boris The honor given me on the yahrzeit of my mother, David Eisner by Linda Danovitch Bicks Frieda Salaman Brodsky, Fridel Bat Shimson, Tilda Bertha Pincus by Linda Koricki, Jodi Koricki, Susan by Elaine Steppa DiManna, Holly Karp and Family

26 OCTOBER 2019 Rabbi Arthur Rulnick Caring Corner continued from page 20. continued from page 11. Registration for SUKKOT FAMILY BRUNCH, CONGREGATIONAL Rabbi Rulnick serves on the Ethics online social networks, triggering the SUKKOT DINNER Committee of the Charles E. Smith Life dopamine release. Neuroscientists identify and PIZZA IN THE HUT (p. 10) Communities and volunteers as a co-leader too much dopamine release eventually of a men’s current events discussion group creates a dopamine triggered-behavior that Registration is due by Sunday, at the Hebrew Home. He enjoys daily can form into an addiction similar to the October 6. exercise at the Bender JCCGW. same chemical reaction from gambling and ______recreational drugs. Adult’s Name(s) Rabbi Rulnick and Adrienne are the proud parents of three married children and ______Furthermore, using social media decreases Child(ren)’s Name(s) & Age(s) grandparents of seven. Their son, Aaron, the activation of the prefrontal cortex. his wife and two children live in Potomac; The prefrontal cortex influences executive ______Phone Number their daughter, Debbie, lives in Modiin, functioning skills, social behavior and Israel, with her husband and two children; social-emotional engagement with others. ______and their son, Jonathan, lives on Kibbutz Executive functioning relates to people’s Email Address Kramim with his wife and three children. ability to determine the difference between good and bad, working on prediction of CONGREGATIONAL SUKKOT outcomes, and decision making. With one’s DINNER presence primarily online, one’s ability # ______Adult Meals (chicken/vegetarian entrée to interpersonally connect with others & sides) @ $18/member, $22/nonmember Stefanie Juster continued from page 11. = ______decrease, which correlates with increased # ______Children’s Meals (chicken/vegetarian social anxiety. nuggets & fries) @ $9/member, $12/nonmember baton, conducting the Boston Pops with = ______# ______Children 2 & under needing a chair/ Arthur Fiedler. We saw movie musicals Even though social media makes it easier highchair @ no charge = $0 and concerts and shows at Lincoln Center, to connect with others, both providing Carnegie Hall, and on Broadway. At home, people with a means to connect locally and We are willing to sit in the Fanaroff Pavilion if I belted out all the songs I knew, and at camp globally, it is important to limit the amount overflow seating is needed. _____Yes _____No and school, I sang in the plays and variety of time online in order to reduce the potential shows. I grew up singing and found joy in negative psychological effects. Is anyone in your family a vegetarian? If so, please specify adult or child. ______creative writing. ______The JSSA Synagogue Liaison program Fast forward to today. I am a lawyer by is a partnership between JSSA and local Any food allergies or issues? If so, please specify trade who loves to make up lyrics to great congregations as an additional support adult or child. ______melodies. For the past three years I have to families. Shana Frenkel, LCSW-C, is had the pleasure of helping our synagogue available to discuss a whole range of issues— A late fee of $4/person will be charged for develop its own Purim Spiel tradition. from parenting to aging, communicating to registration on/after Sunday, October 6.

What began as short performances on stress-relief. If Shana is not the right person Subtotal $ ______Purim following the carnival and during the to help, she will make the connection to other Megillah is now a separate Sunday affair. professionals from JSSA and beyond. We have moved from an all adult cast to an SUKKOT FAMILY BRUNCH almost all children cast telling Esther’s story Shana is available for regular office hours, $7 per immediate family Subtotal $ ______through song. every other Wednesday from 9:30–11:00 AM in room 208. Contact her (sfrenkel@jssa. PIZZA IN THE HUT Rabbi Safra explained that this is exactly org, 301-610-8396) anytime. $20 per immediate family by Sunday, October 13 what B’nai needs. The Purim Spiel creates $30 per immediate family on/after Sunday, a positive environment for celebrating the October 13 $5 per additional guest history of our people, inspiring bravery, highlighting talent, bridging the gap between Any food allergies or issues? If so, please specify young and old, and making sure our children adult or child. find their own peace and comfort in our ______community. Yes, the power of music. Subtotal $ ______

Very rarely am I at a loss for words. I am truly humbled by this honor you have given TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED $______me.

Please make your check payable and mail to B’nai Israel Congregation.

OCTOBER 2019 27 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Gaithersburg, MD SCROLL Permit No. 2707 6301 MONTROSE ROAD ROCKVILLE, MD 20852-4120

Schilit Nursery School 301-816-5578 301-881-6550 Talmud Torah 301-816-5576 www.bnaiisraelcong.org

We want your child to spend EVERY DAY with us! Schilit Nursery School HALF-DAY & FULL-DAY Options

• Before Care • Ages young 2s, 2, 3, and Pre-K • Half-day until 12:30 PM • Children’s Choice enrichment until 2:00 PM • Full-day IN-HOUSE until 6:00 PM • Flexible scheduling options 2019–2020 Registration is now Open www.bnaiisraelcong.org/nurseryschoolregistration

KAREN GERTON NANCY GOLDBERG Early Childhood Director Schilit Nursery School Assistant Director

301.816.5578 | www.bnaiisraelcong.org/nurseryschool Contact us to schedule a tour.

28 OCTOBER 2019