...Temple Talk...Temple Talk...

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1 Nisan / Iyar 5773 April 2013 Temple Israel & JCC Tel: Fax: Dr. David J. Fine, Rabbi / Caitlin O. Bromberg, Cantor Sharon Litwin, Associate Rabbi / Allan Alterman, President...Temple Talk...Temple Talk... Fri, June 14 Open Mic Night Piano Recital See Page 15 Sunday, April pm See Page 17 Interfaith Blood Drive Sunday, April 21 9am-2pm See Page 11 hursda 8th Annual BMC Golf Outing Thursday, June 13 1:00 pm See Page 20 27th Annual Interfaith Holocaust Remembrance Service Sunday, April 7 th, 7:30 pm See Page 12 Max Aaron Strachman Memorial Author Talk & Book Signing with Award-winning Writer Joshua Henkin Sunday, April 7, 11:30 am See Page 10 SISTERHOOD WOMEN S HEALTH TALK Sunday, April 14 th, 10:30 am See Page 13 General Membership Meeting Wed, May 8, 7:00 pm Inside this issue: Rabbi s Message 2 Associate Rabbi s Message 3 President s Message 4 NNJJA Fundraisers 5-6 Circle of Honor. Oneg/ Kiddush.Milestones TI Celebrates Purim 8 Adult Education 10 Interfaith Blood Drive Flyer 11 Ritual.Tikkun Olam 12 Sisterhood 13 Chesed 14 Piano Recital Flyer 15 Musical Notes 16 Open Mic 17 Membership.Youth 18 Men s Club 19 Golf Outing Flyer 20 Ways & Means 21 Charitable Gift Annuities 25 Community Activities/ Announcements 7 26 Yom Hashoah Flyer 27 Donations 28 Opportunities for Giving 29 Calendars 30 Back Cover

2 FROM THE RABBI S STUDY... The Abraham Geiger College and Zacharias Frankel Institute in Berlin Many of you know that I teach Jewish law for a week once or twice a year at the Abraham Geiger College in Berlin. For the past three years, most recently in mid-february, I have had the wonderful opportunity to teach an intensive twenty-hour seminar spread over four days on practical matters of Jewish law for rabbinical students. On the Temple Israel trip to Germany in 2011, our group met the rector of the Geiger College, Rabbi Walter Homolka, when we were in Berlin. Working with him, and for the College, has added a significant dimension to my own rabbinate and enhanced the way I think and teach about Judaism in Ridgewood. What is the Abraham Geiger College? It is a rabbinical and graduate Judaics program affiliated with the University of Potsdam just outside Berlin. The academic department offers an MA program at Potsdam, while the rabbinical program is based in central Berlin. Geiger has become the major non-orthodox seminary for continental Europe, second only to the Leo Baeck College in London. About half of my students have been German Jews usually either the children of Russian immigrants or native Germans converted to Judaism from Protestantism. I have also had students from Russia, Hungary, France and Norway. They are being trained to serve communities throughout Europe. Geiger began as a Liberal institution affiliated with the Reform movement. However, in the past several years, an agreement has been negotiated with the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies at the American Jewish University in Los Angeles, where Geiger students will have the option of a Conservative track and may graduate as Conservative rabbis with ordination from Ziegler and membership in the Rabbinical Assembly. This new program will be called The Zacharias Frankel Institute, a name that I recommended to Rabbi Homolka because Zacharias Frankel was the conservative rival of the more liberal Abraham Geiger in nineteenth-century German Jewry. The Frankel Institute has not yet officially opened its doors but we are hoping that it will be an institutional reality by next year. The training of non-orthodox rabbis, be they Conservative or Reform, is critical for Europe as there has been a dramatic growth in the strong Jewish communities of France and Germany. France is the largest Jewish community, while Germany has grown dramatically, with the influx since 1991, of Jewish émigrés from the former Soviet Union. Those Soviet émigrés had very minimal Jewish education, but their children are being brought up Jewish in today s Germany, and they need rabbis. However, while many communities in Germany prefer to hire non-orthodox rabbis, there are very few non-orthodox rabbis available for work in Germany, whereas there are always Israeli-based Orthodox rabbis willing to move there to work. We in the non- Orthodox world are missing a tremendous opportunity to support a growing Jewish community that is looking for our approach to Judaism to pass on to its children. Given that context, I am aware of the importance of the training of the few non-orthodox rabbis who will be serving these communities. I believe that we are giving them a great education. You might also be amused that so many of the examples of practical synagogue practice that we talk about in seminar are examples from Ridgewood, New Jersey! Page 2

3 ASSOCIATE RABBI S MESSAGE As the director of the Religious School at Temple Israel for five years and now the director of NNJJA, I have had to re-imagine some of the programs and workshops for the students to involve both the students and rabbis from all of the participating NNJJA synagogues and to make them accessible to all our parents as well. We have held workshops and dinners at all of the schools throughout the year, with much success. Our Purim Carnival at Temple Beth Sholom in Fair Lawn was well attended by NNJJA families, along with unaffiliated members of the community. We are always happy to welcome newcomers to our programs. One program that really forced me to think differently is the annual Kitah Aleph Siddur Ceremony. For years at Temple Israel, Kitah Aleph students and their parents have participated in a Shabbat morning service, at the end of which students were presented with their new, personal siddurim. Now with students in Kitah Aleph enrolled from multiple synagogues and rabbis who would like to participate in the Kitah Aleph Siddur Ceremony at their home congregations on Shabbat morning, I had to figure out a way to accommodate everyone, taking into account the preference of many to avoid travel on Shabbat. Rather than simply do away with the Siddur Ceremony as it had traditionally been done, I instead decided to rethink the audience and the purpose of the ritual. In the past, the audience has been primarily Shabbat morning regulars and Kitah Aleph families and friends, but I thought it would be more meaningful for the Kitah Aleph students to receive their siddurim toward the end of their first year of earnest Hebrew study before the NNJJA community their classmates, teachers and rabbis. This entailed a rescheduling of the Kitah Aleph Siddur Ceremony from Shabbat morning to Sunday morning. This year s ceremony will take place Sunday, May 5th. Kitah Aleph will help lead a NNJJA style Shacharit, morning, service, assisted by all of their schoolmates. Each class will be invited to lead at least one prayer in the service, using the melodies from our Sunday morning tefillah. Afterward, members of Kitah Aleph will present their thoughts and reflections on what they have learned during the year, focusing on the teaching from Pirkei Avot: Al Shlosha D varim HaOlam Omed, Al HaTorah, V al HaAvodah, V al Gemilut Hasadim, on three things does the world stands: on Torah, on worship and on acts of loving-kindness. These are the themes of the Kitah Aleph curriculum. First, students learn to read Hebrew and begin to learn a few prayers; next, they explore the Torah stories from the Book of Genesis to the giving of the Torah on Mount Sinai in the Book of Exodus, and finally, they study what it means to be a mensch, from a curriculum entitled, The Kids Mensch Handbook. I am looking forward to writing my presentation, to be delivered alongside theirs and that of their capable teacher, Leora Secemski. I encourage everyone to attend what is sure to be an enriching, inspiring morning, a true highlight of the Kitah Aleph calendar. Because so many school districts are represented at NNJJA, we decided that rather than have a very long break in March and April to coincide with the breaks from every district, we would schedule our break over Passover and have school in April for those who can attend. If your children are home and are able to attend NNJJA during your school holiday, please do send them. If you are not around at that time, their absences will be excused and not be counted in their attendance record, with ample leeway given to make up missed assignments. By the time you read this page, your Pesach seders will be a memory. I hope you had a meaningful holiday. Rabbi Sharon Litwin Important dates in April for the NNJJA community: Wed, April 3rd -- School Resumes Sat, April 6th -- Junior Congregation at TBS not TI Sun, April 7th, Wed, April 10th, Sun, April 14th, Wed, April 17th -- Regular Classes; No workshops or parent programs Sat, April 20th -- Junior Congregation at TBS and TI Sun, April 21st -- Field Trip: Kitah Dalet and Kitah Hey to Museum of Jewish Heritage, Regular Class for Pre-K Wed, April 24th -- Regular Class Page 3

4 March was an exciting month of events that included: Numerous adult learning opportunities Men s Club Man-of-the-Year Continuation of the winter music program Bialywood this year s annual themed fundraiser The start of Passover Torah Club Shabbat. PRESIDENT S MESSAGE Our community continues to excel in providing rich programming. And it's not just the programming; it's the participation, as well. Bialywood had over 130 people signed up to attend in advance of the event, while the adult learning programs, such as the rabbi's Sunday morning lecture series, regularly draws over 60 people. Both the Man-of-the-Year and the Winter Music Festival were also very well attended. Our shul, by all measures, continues to be very vibrant and overall, great place to spend time for learning, worship and socializing. Our entire community deserves the credit for this; a big thank you to everyone for all that you do. There are a couple of exciting new programs that you will be hearing about over the coming months, but one in particular, I d like to highlight here: Torah Dedication Campaign The board has approved the establishment of a restricted ritual fund that will be used exclusively for ritual items and needs, e.g., the purchase of new ritual items or for repairs to our Sifrei Torah. Even before this has been publicized, some generous donors have come forward to seed the fund. One of the first major items we are planning to purchase is a new Torah -- which the board has already approved. This scroll is a rare miniature Torah, making it very valuable. It is fully usable and has excellent font clarity. The value to us of a miniature Torah (beyond dollar value) is multi-fold, facilitating: Participation by children or physically challenged individuals during Simchat Torah, Kol Nidre, Hagbah and Torah processionals; and Mobility of the Torah, if it is needed for a minyan off-site, for instance in someone's home or some other location. In connection with this acquisition, we will conduct a fundraising drive to offer members of our community the opportunity to contribute to its purchase and gain recognition when the Torah is formally dedicated. Children will be invited to dedicate a single letter for $18, and single adults or families may dedicate a single verse for $180. There will also be higher levels of giving available, representing an aliyah, weekly parsha or an entire book. Those who contribute will receive a certificate identifying the specific letter, verse or portion they ve dedicated. A dedication plaque will be mounted in the temple, identifying all contributors. Robert Obeiter has volunteered to chair this effort, and he is currently in the process of forming a committee. Please reach out to Bob if you are interested in serving on the Torah Dedication Campaign Committee or participating in some other way in this exciting program. Stay tuned as more details are communicated. Page 4 Credit: Photo by Johanna Resnick Rosen/Candid Eye

5 NNJJA Mother s Day Fundraiser Made of the finest, fresh ingredients just one taste will convince you! These delicious cakes and pies are served at exclusive restaurants, hotels and country clubs. All the items listed below are kosher dairy, except for the NY Blackout Cake which is pareve DE. Cakes can be picked up from Temple Israel on SUNDAY MAY 12 MOTHER S DAY. We will also be offering FREE DELIVERY for orders of 2 or more cakes in Ridgewood, Glen Rock, Waldwick, Ho Ho Kus, Saddle River and Upper Saddle River. All cakes and pies come frozen and can remain in a freezer for up to 3 months! 10 inch Pies Cost Per Pie Quantity Total Apple Apple Crumb Blueberry Crumb Cherry Crumb Coconut Custard Pecan Pumpkin Pumpkin cheese Tollhouse inch Cakes Cost Per Cake Quantity Total NY Cheese Marble Cheese Chocolate Chip NY Blackout Mousse Supreme Black &White Mousse Carrot Spice TOTAL DUE: NAME: PHONE NUMBER: Please select: I will pick up my order at Temple Israel on Sunday May 12 between 9:30 12:30 Please deliver my order of 2 or more cakes on Sunday May 12 between 9:30 12:30 to (Ridgewood, Glen Rock, Waldwick, Ho Ho Kus, Saddle River or Upper Saddle River ONLY) Please send in this order form and check made out to NNJJA by May 1, 2013 to NNJJA, 475 Grove Street, Ridgewood, NJ Page 5

6 Help support the programs of Temple Israel s Hebrew School at NO COST to you! TI Hebrew School Committee is now selling SUPERMARKET GIFT CARDS! How does it work? You purchase a Gift Card with a check made out to Temple Israel. The gift cards can be purchased in most denominations. How does the TI Hebrew School Committee earn money? We purchase the gift cards at a 5% discount and sell them at face value. When can I purchase them? We will be selling them in the TI lobby on Sunday mornings from 9:15 9:45 and 11:45 12:30. We will also try to have them available at other synagogue events. If I can t get to TI on a Sunday morning, how can I participate? Contact Miriam at miriambakal@optonline.net to make other arrangements. I don t really shop at Fairway, ShopRite, Stop & Shop or A&P. Do you have gift cards for other supermarkets? Please let us know where you shop and we will try to expand our program! PLEASE SUPPORT OUR CHILDREN S EDUCATION BY PARTICIPATING IN THIS PROGRAM! Page 6

7 Benefactor s Circle Beth & Freddie Kotek Tricia & Howard Schreiber Sustainer s Circle Sue Rubinoff Lenore & Neil Sherman Patron s Circle Sharon & Kenneth Levitsky Pillar s Circle Audrey Meyers & Scott Agins CIRCLE OF HONOR TODAH RABBAH TO OUR GENEROUS DONORS The Gruber Family Shari & Manny Haber Rita & Robert Obeiter Sponsor s Circle Cheryl & Allan Alterman Anonymous (4) Christine & Evan Dobkins The Fels Family Roberta & Charles Fleischman Beth & Arty Freed Tamara & Barry Freeman Sharyn & Alan Gallatin Hayley & Jeffrey Gluck Susie & Shelly Goldstein Suzanne & Joshua Holden Debbie, Wayne & Jared Miller Melony & Robert Muller Peri & David Namerow Lisa Mellman & Toby Nygaard Johanna & Michael Rosen Kurt Rosenberg Ellen & Allen Rubin Sisterhood of Temple Israel Carla & Denis Vogel Bonita & David Weiss ONEG/KIDDUSH SPONSORS Kiddush Sponsors Oneg Shabbat Sponsors Apr. 6: Jennifer & Stuart Zimmer in honor of their son, Zachary Zimmer on the occasion of his Apr. 5: Apr. 12: Apr. 19: Jennifer & Stuart Zimmer in honor of their son, Zachary Zimmer on the occasion of his bar mitzvah OPEN FOR SPONSORSHIP OPEN FOR SPONSORSHIP-Family Service Apr. 13: Apr. 20: Apr. 27: bar mitzvah OPEN FOR SPONSORSHIP-Nosh & Drash OPEN FOR SPONSORSHIP-Family Service OPEN FOR SPONSORSHIP Apr. 26: BNAI MITZVAH OPEN FOR SPONSORSHIP Zachary Zimmer, son of Jennifer & Stuart Zimmer We wish our Bar Mitzvah a lifetime of Torah, Mitzvot and Gemilut Hasadim (Acts of Loving-kindess) ENGAGEMENTS Michael Obeiter and Kristen Olson. Michael is the son of Rita Benezra & Robert Obeiter. Andrea Stern and Christopher O Keeffe. Andrea is the daughter of Libby & Michael Stern. We wish the engaged couples mazel and future happiness. MILESTONES REFUAH SHELEMAH William Holzer Dave Kaplan Sylvia Norden Ellen Rubin Martin Rubin We wish complete healing of body and spirit to all who confront illness Page 7

8 Tuesday Evening Talmud is Back! ADULT EDUCATION Tuesday Evening Talmud is Back! 8:00 pm, following minyan Join Rabbi Fine for these lively, interactive weekly seminar-style sessions. This semester, we begin the study of Tractate Brachot from a new Steinsaltz edition in English translation. For best price, order your copy on Amazon.com. And don t forget to Goodsearch so your purchase will benefit Temple Israel! Rabbi Fine s Sunday Morning Lecture Series THE HISTORY OF MODERN JUDAISM, 10:30 am-noon Rabbi Fine s Sunday Morning Lecture Series Concludes. It s Never Too Late to Join Us! April 7: Minority Denominations in America (Orthodox, Reconstructionist, Humanist, Renewal) April 21: Judaism in Israel April 28: Conservative Judaism in America On April 7 th, stay after the rabbi s class for the Max Aaron Strachman Memorial Author Talk & Book Signing with Award-winning Writer Joshua Henkin 11:30 am Fiction writer Joshua Henkin will talk about his new novel, The World Without You (Pantheon, 2012), and sign copies of his book, for sale. The event is co-sponsored by the Strachman Family Endowment and Adult Education Committee. This is Mr. Henkin s third novel. He previously published Matrimony, a New York Times Notable Book, and Swimming Across the Hudson, a Los Angeles Times Notable Book. This latest work, published last June, has been named an Editors Choice Book by The New York Times and the Chicago Tribune and is the winner of the 2012 Edward Lewis Wallant Award and a finalist for the 2012 National Jewish Book Awards. His short stories have been published widely, cited for distinction in Best American Short Stories, and broadcast on NPR s "Selected Shorts." He lives in Brooklyn, NY, and directs the MFA Program in Fiction Writing at Brooklyn College. Peri Namerow, Chair Page 10

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10 RITUAL Photos intentionally left blank Thanks to young TI congregant Zachary Manheimer and his Boy Scout troop, the upstairs youth lounge now has a spanking new ark for use by Junior Congregation and other Temple youth functions. For Zach, this community service project meant earning his Eagle Scout badge. Mazal tov, Zach! Here, Zach shares a bit about what moved him to undertake the project and other details about the ark s design and construction: I observed that the old ark being used for the children's services was way past its prime and that the congregation needed a new one. Here was a chance to help my Temple community by doing something useful for my Eagle Scout project. I chose to design and construct the new ark with solid woods; the ark is made of both maple and Purple Heart woods. To finish the project, I enlisted the help of some other Boy Scouts, including a couple of scouts who are members of Temple Israel. We met almost every Sunday, and the project took about four months to complete approximately 200 man-hours collectively from getting the wood to finally staining the completed ark. I hope that everyone loves the new ark and that this was a beneficial project to serve Temple Israel for years to come. Tikkun Olam activities for this month: Homeless Feeding: Cooking, Sunday April 7th, 10:30 a.m. 2:00 p.m. in the synagogue kitchen Serving, Tuesday April 9th: 4:00 6:30 p.m. at the Hackensack Shelter Interfaith Blood Drive: Sunday April 21st 8:45 a.m. 2:00 p.m. at the synagogue Please contact Nadine Genet at nzgnzg@aol.com for information on these activities. TIKKUN OLAM 27th Annual Interfaith Holocaust Remembrance Service Sunday, April 7 th, 7:30 pm West Side Presbyterian Church, Ridgewood Keynote Speaker: Dr. Tamara Freeman Page 12

11 SISTERHOOD WOMEN S HEALTH THROUGH THE LIFESPAN: Sunday, April 14 th Join us on Sunday, April 14 th at 10:30 am at Temple Israel for a fascinating program directed at women of all ages. Temple Israel members Dr. Sue Flanzman, Dr. Michele Preminger and Waltraud Unger will explore women's health through the various disciplines, focusing on prevention. We will be looking at food and lifestyle, genetic disposition and emotional factors and their respective roles in achieving a healthy life. Come listen, learn, ask questions, enjoy. BOOK GROUP: April 28 th The next meeting of the book group is planned for Sunday, April 28th, at 7:00 pm at the home of Risa Rohrberger, 20 Gaynor Place, Glen Rock. We will be discussing The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell either in April or in May. Please come, even if you have not had the opportunity to read the book. Suggestions for future reads always welcome! Contact Risa with questions: or risa.rohrberger@gmail.com MAH JONG SHABBATS Three crack! One bam! You know what those sounds mean it s time for MAH JONG! Whether you've never played before, or are looking for a social game, come join Sisterhood after Shabbat services for some game time. We'll be playing at the shul on the following dates: April 20 th and June 15 th. Instruction for beginners will be provided. Questions? Contact Arlene Bernhardt at (201) or arleneyb@yahoo.com. CRAFT NIGHT: Wednesday, May 22 nd Our final event of this program year will be a fun Craft Night at Temple Israel. Have you ever wanted to learn to knit or crochet or make yur own jewelry? This is your chance to come and get crafty! THANKS FOR YOUR HELP Many thanks to Pam Grant and Debbie Cantor for providing entertainment at Vashti s Feast and to Pam Cohen for shopping. It was a fun evening! WOMEN S TALLITOT Have you noticed the beautiful pink-and-silver tallitot in the rack in the synagogue lobby? They are Sisterhood s gift to the shul, and they debuted on Sisterhood Shabbat on January 19 th. Thanks to Hayley Gluck for the suggestion and to Stephanie Gottesman for finding and purchasing them for us. Kippots for your Simchas- Sisterhood is once again selling custom kippot. Before you buy on line, check with us. You'll save money and benefit the synagogue. Contact Carla Vogel at (201) or carla@synagogue.org. Tallitot are available in the gift shop. There is a wonderful selection of beautiful and unique tallitot for men and women of all ages. Torah Fund This year's Torah Fund pin is now available, and it's gorgeous. Contact Peri Namerow at (201) or pbn1@columbia.edu. Treat yourself and Women s League to a special gift for the holidays. Torah Fund cards cost $5 each and are lovely to send for any occasion--birthday, anniversary, wedding or b'nai mitzvah. To order, contact Libby Stern (201) or thelib104@gmail.com. Page 13

12 CHESED Many of you may know NNJJA Pre-Kindergarten teacher Tali Vogel. Tali is presently a patient at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York and has asked that we publicize the following: o What would really make a difference for me, and other patients like me, would be donations of platelets and blood at [Memorial] Sloan [Kettering] in NYC, where I'm being treated. Part of my treatment is receiving a lot of platelets and blood units. I would encourage people who are looking to make a difference and show their support to come in to Sloan, at their convenience, and donate. Donations must be made at Memorial Sloan Kettering where they offer free parking for up to 5 hours. No wait time is incurred if you make a reservation to donate in advance. Please call Temple Israel Chesed Committee Chair Elyse Beidner Levene ( ) for the Donation Reservation Phone Number. Thank you all for considering this most important request. Are you looking for a way to get involved in the community but don t want to make a major time commitment? Do you have a child that needs community service credit? If so, please consider joining the CHESED committee. There generally are no meetings, and all you have to do is want to stay connected while helping others in need. Please complete the form below, and either to me or leave it in the Temple office marked Attention: Chesed. Name: City, State, Zip: Home #: Work #: Cell #: Where do you prefer to be contacted (i.e. which phone number or address)? I would be delighted to fulfill the mitzvah of loving kindness (Gemilut Chasadim): Cook a meal My home is: Kosher not Kosher Deliver a meal Drive an adult Drive to/from shul on Friday night Shop for food Visit a congregant Make a friendly phone call Run quick errands Deliver Shabbat Challah to those in need Saturday Morning Elyse Beidner Levene, Chair elyselawyer@msn.com Please all of the information to Elyse Beidner Levene, Chesed chair, at elyselawyer@msn.com. Questions? Call or Elyse: (o); (c); (h); elyselawyer@msn.com. IF YOU ARE ALREADY A VOLUNTEER FROM LAST YEAR AND WISH TO CONTINUE TO PARTICIPATE, NO NEED TO COMPLETE ANOTHER FORM (UNLESS YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION OR AREAS OF INTEREST HAVE Page 14

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14 MUSICAL NOTES Many thanks to everyone who made our first season of Winter Music Saturdays such a resounding success! We finished our season with a wonderful jazz program on March 9 th, featuring two delightful young Israeli artists, Eyal Vilner and Eden Ladin, and co-sponsored by Richard Schnaittacher. Thanks to Rabbis Fine and Litwin and Cantor Bromberg for leading Havdalah, to Maureen, Jose and Tina for all their help, to the members of the Music Committee and to everyone who attended the concerts and donated to this year s music program. Catch the TI Choir at Yom HaShoah Interfaith Service: Sunday, April 7 th, 7:30 pm The choir will sing with area church choirs. Caitlin and Kenny Crane-Moscowitz will sing solos, and Tamara Freeman will give the keynote address on Hirsh Glik, the most famous Holocaust teen composer and partisan. Open Mics Continue Mark your calendar for our next open mic of the year, scheduled for Sunday afternoon, April 21st. These fun events feature the talents of many Temple members in many musical genres, all performed to an enthusiastic audience. If you would like to participate by playing an instrument, singing, dancing, telling a story or some jokes contact Marc Cantor at mcantor@casconsulting.com. Exciting Plans for Summer Music Fridays Save the dates! The popular Summer Music Fridays series resumes on June 14 th and continues on July 19 th and August 2 nd. These wonderful evenings begin with a concert and continue with Kabbalat Shabbat services and a festive oneg. On June 14 th, we will present our Piano Dedication Concert, at which we proudly dedicate Temple Israel s two new babies: the Knabe baby grand piano donated by Mrs. Natalie Hertz, a former member of Temple Israel, in loving memory of her husband, Walter Hertz z'l, and the Settergren baby grand donated by Libby and Michael Stern and now happily residing in the rabbi s house on Woodbine Court. Temple Israel pianists of all ages are invited to participate see the ad in this issue of Temple Talk or contact Tamara at tamarafreeman@verizon.net. Save the date of July 19th for a lovely evening of classical music presented by Annette Leib, on flute, and Tamara Freeman, on violin and viola. They will play works that include duets by Beethoven, Ibert and Delibe. And mark your calendars for the final event of the season, August 2nd, with Irene, harpist, and Artie Bressler, on woodwinds. Yes! I want to donate to music at Temple Israel Name: Benefactor ($72): Patron ($54): Friend ($36): Supporter ($18): Thank you for your continuing support! Our schedule for the coming months: April 21, 2013: Open Mic, 3:00-5:00 p.m. contact Marc Cantor if you wish to participate June 14, 2013: Summer Music Friday: Piano Dedication Concert July 19, 2013 Summer Music Friday: Annette Leib, flute, and Tamara Freeman, violin and viola August 2, 2013 Summer Music Friday: Irene Bressler, harp, and Artie Bressler, woodwinds Page 16

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16 MUSICAL NOTES Cont. Music Committee co-chairs Tamara Freeman, left, and Elaine Silverstein congratulate jazz artists Eden Ladin, left, and Eyal Vilner after their March 9 th Credit: Photo by JohannaResnick Rosen/Candid Eye Attention Families with Pre-Schoolers: MEMBERSHIP Take advantage of a special new offer from the Bergen County YJCC in Washington Township for new families enrolling 2-year-olds in its David Rukin Early Childhood Center Nursery School for September: a one-year complimentary family membership at the YJCC, from September 2013 through August 2014, thanks to an anonymous donor. Since YJCC membership is required for enrollment in Nursery School, this is a substantial savings. For information, contact Anette McGarity at (201) , ext or amcgarity@yjcc.org. And don t forget: after the first year of free membership, as a Temple Israel member, you ll be entitled to continue your family membership at the YJCC for just $360 a year. Membership year begins in September and runs through August, annually. EL AL This month, the group is looking forward to Maccabiya and the Lag B Omer BBQ, on Sunday, April 28th. Then, we ll stick around to hang out in the Youth Lounge, 12:45-2:15 pm, to play on the Wii, Foozball, AirHockey, Apples to Apples, Chalk Games and just relax. El Al loves when it s our turn to use the lounge! KADIMA Intentionally left blank YOUTH Spring is finally here! Lounge Night for April will be Tuesday, the 16th, 6:30-8:00 pm. Then join us for Kadima s annual food drive on Sunday, April 21st,1:00 4:00 pm. USY Please check the USY Facebook page for events or reach out to Heather at usyheather@gmail.com El-Al-niks enjoying the annual Chocolate Seder with Rabbi Sharon on Sunday, March 17 th. Credit: Photo by Dan Unger Page 18

17 Brandeis Men s Club Men s Club Weekend this past March was a terrific event. We hosted Shabbat services on March 9th, with more than 36 men helping to lead our services too many names to list here! This year, we involved many of our young men, mostly of post-bar mitzvah age, who have helped in and around our community. We also had many past BMC presidents join in the services, as well. It really made for a very special day for all who attended. On Sunday, March 10th, we honored Freddie Kotek as our Man-of-the-Year, with a brunch that was very well attended by many well-wishers! Richard Rosen gave the main address, detailing many of Freddie s accomplishments at Temple Israel and in the community at-large. He took a number of good-humored jabs at Freddie to give everyone a sense of what a great guy Freddie really is. Several other congregants, among them Tova Samuels, Bob Obeiter and Tamara Freeman, took advantage of my invitation to take the podium to speak candidly about their personal experiences over the years with Freddie and thank him for all he s done for Temple Israel. We are fortunate, and honored, to have a man with the highest integrity, and devotion to our community as Freddie, assisted and supported, as always by his wonderful wife, Beth. On Monday, April 22 nd at 7:30 pm, we will hold another Hearing Men s Voices : 7 Things You Must Do Now (Regardless of Your Age) to Achieve Financial Independence for You and Your Family in Retirement, presented by Howard Hook, a Certified Financial Planner. This event will take place in the back room at Smith Bros. on Broad Street in Ridgewood. Please feel free to engage in a discussion and enjoy a beverage or two of your choice, from the cash bar. This edition of Temple Talk will reach you just about the time of Yom Hashoah, on Monday, April 8 th. Don t forget to light your yellow candles, which you received courtesy of the Men s Club, on Sunday evening, April 7 th! Please take a few minutes to read some of the accompanying prayers with your family, and if you have children at home, discuss the Holocaust with them, as they are sure to have questions. This year, with funds raised from our Yellow Candle Program, our Men s Club is paying for a field trip for Temple Israel s NNJJA students. If you d like to make a donation, please fill out the form that came with candle, and mail it with your check in the return envelope provided. B Shalom Howard Schreiber Credit: Photos by Johanna Resnick Rosen/Candid Eye Page 19

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19 Ways and Means Bialywood It's a Wrap! This year's Ways & Means dinner, Bialywood, was a rousing success! People dressed for the occasion, danced Bollywood-style, ate delicious Indian and American food, drank late into the night, and most importantly, strengthened our sense of community at Temple Israel. For those of you who came to the event, thank you for your support. If you missed out on the fun, we hope to see you next year. The second part of our mission, to raise money for the Temple, was also a great success. We sold over 40 pages of advertising. Please make an effort to patronize the sponsors and thank them for advertising in Temple Israel's Ad Journal. I also want to thank the people who donated items and services for the auction, and I am especially grateful for those who bid recklessly for the good cause. Thank you to the committee chairs: Alla Fine and Beth Kotek, dinner co-chairs; Bob Dworkin, ad journal chair; Susie Goldstein and Peri Namerow, silent auction co-chairs; Cheryl Alterman, invitations chair; and Beth Freed, program design and layout. Special thanks to our "Big Bialys" whose volunteering helped all run smoothly: Allan Alterman, Nancy Bortinger, Irene and Artie Bressler, Laura Brody, Pam and Eitan Cohen, Abe Davis, Shari Haber, Helen Katz, Jo Rosen, Tova Samuels and Joe Wechsler. Thanks again. See you in Temple. Arty Freed Ways & Means Chair Page 21

20 CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITIES Make good financial sense! A CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITY is a wonderful way to make a gift to Temple Israel and receive a guaranteed income stream during these uncertain economic times. Whether you manage your own funds, or a close relative s, this investment may be for you. You need not be a T.I. member to participate. Consider establishing a CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITY to: Provide regular, fixed payments that offer you income for your lifetime Name up to two income beneficiaries (I.E. a husband and wife) Transfer cash or marketable securities in exchange for a guaranteed income Realize rates that are higher than CD s and money market accounts Take an immediate Charitable income tax deduction Receive a portion of each payment tax free Enjoy favorable capital gains treatment, if funded with appreciated securities Sample rate chart for a life annuity: Age Rate Age Rate % % % % % % To enquire about specific details please contact Howard Schreiber; , 10baker@optonline.net Page 25

21 Life Beyond Temple Israel: Community Activities/Announcements College Scholarships Available Application deadline: May 17, 2013 The Kaplen JCC on The Palisades at 411 East Clinton Avenue, Tenafly, is pleased to announce that applications for The Hildegard & Sidney Schonfeld Jewish Community College Scholarship Fund are now available. This countywide fund offers annual competitive grants to college-bound Jewish students in Bergen County, including students with special needs. Scholarships are open to undergraduates who are attending a 2-year or 4-year college full time in the United States or Israel. Students must possess a demonstrated financial need and be in good academic standing. Grants are not renewable. However, all qualified students may apply each year. Applications must be submitted on or before May 17, Applications can be downloaded at click on Children & Teens > Teens & Maccabi > Scholarships for Israel and College. Applications (an original and five 5 complete copies) should be mailed directly to: Kaplen JCC on the Palisades, 411 East Clinton Avenue, Tenafly, NJ 07670, Attention: Michele Schaffer. For more information, please contact Judi Nahary, Director of the College Scholarship Fund at (201) , ext Thursday, April 18 th - The Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey Synagogue Leadership Initiative is hosting the One Book One Community culminating event, highlighting The Zookeeper s Wife. There will be a Meet-and-Greet with author Diane Ackerman and a dessert reception. For more information contact Nancy Perlman at NancyP@jfnnj.org or (201) Sunday, March 17 th - April 7 th - - The traveling international art exhibit, People: A Common Thread will move to the Belskie Museum of Art and Science, 280 High Street in Closter. There will be a reception, a Meet-and-Greet with the artists. RCBC Kosher dietary laws observed. For more information contact Sarit Ron at SaritR@jfnnj.org or (201) Page 26

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23 DONATIONS Temple Israel Operating Fund Arlene & David Cox in honor of Freddie Kotek being chosen Brandeis Men s Club Man of the Year Linda & Abe Davis in memory of Elayne Joyce Kahn, sister of Judi Pitkowsky Joan & Keith Flicker in honor of their son Zachary s birthday and acceptance to Tufts Joan & Keith Flicker in memory of Doris Hesselbirg Beth & Arty Freed in honor of Jo Rosen on the occasion of her birthday Elyse & Louis Levene in honor of Gayle & Bob Sussman on the birth of their grandson, Robert Olafur Sussman Elyse & Louis Levene in honor of Beth & Freddie Kotek on the occasion of their being chosen Solomon Schechter s Honorees Ros & Sieradzki Law Offices in honor of Merille Siegel Jane & Richard Rosen in honor of Stephanie Gottesman & Robert Zeller on the birth of their grandson, Jackson Zeller Feinberg Rabbi Selig Salkowitz to all those who sent me Mishloach Manot Marion & Jerry Schraub in honor of Freddie Kotek being chosen Brandeis Men s Club Man of the Year We thank all of our donors: Cantor s Discretionary Fund Nadine Genet & Leigh Brown in honor of Jo Rosen on the occasion of her birthday Bequests To Temple Israel You can make an enduring gift to Temple Israel through your will as a bequest. A bequest is perhaps the simplest form of planned giving to arrange, and Temple Israel can be named as one of your beneficiaries. A bequest could involve cash, stocks, real estate or other property and is usually a percentage of the residue of your estate, which is given after your family needs are cared for. You may designate that your bequest be used for a particular purpose, and you may indicate whether it is for current needs or endowment. Because a bequest is revocable, there is no immediate income tax deduction, but your gift will be deductible from your taxable estate. Please consult with an attorney when writing your will in order for your wishes to be clearly articulated. Rabbi s Discretionary Fund Susie & Shelly Goldstein in honor of Rabbi Fine on the occasion of his 40th birthday Risa & Robert Rohrberger in honor of Ellen & Allen Rubin on the birth of their grandson, Samuel Harold Davisson Risa & Robert Rohrberger in memory of Martin Mensch, father of Eve Mensch Tricia & Howard Schreiber Page 28

24 Donations & Dedications While Judaism itself can thrive without reference to finances, a community of Jews who are committed to the purpose of the synagogue learning, worship, and fellowship does need financial resources to help each other and themselves. Most of us recognize our obligation to maintain membership in Temple Israel and to support it by payment of annual dues. However, dues alone do not cover all of our costs. There is a continuing need for donations to help assure the synagogue s strength and development. We encourage any and all donations to Temple Israel. The following are suggested giving opportunities in which the funds are used to support all aspects of synagogue life: Temple Israel Operating Fund any amount Tributes $5 DEDICATION OPPORTUNITIES Siddur Sim Shalom for Weekdays $54 Mahzor Lev Shalem For Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur $64 Chumash Etz Hayim $118 Simcha Terrace Paver $136 OPPORTUNITIES FOR GIVING Memorial Plaque $540 Large Memorial Tablet $54,000 The following are suggested giving opportunities in which the funds are used to support specific areas of synagogue life: Temple Israel Chai Campaign Fund any amount Funds the major capital improvements from our synagogue building renovation Religious School Enrichment Fund any amount Funds religious school enrichment programs & materials Endowment Funds $25,000 to establish a fund; $18 donation to established funds Each Fund has a specific purpose. Consult column on the right Susan Reeve/Temple Israel Feed the Hungry Fund any amount Funds Temple Israel s Tikkun Olam Feed the Hungry Program Kiddush Club Funds the kiddush when there is no regular kiddush sponsor $144 Rabbi s Discretionary Fund any amount Funds charitable purposes, at the discretion of the Rabbi Cantor s Discretionary Fund any amount Funds charitable purposes, at the discretion of the Cantor Associate Rabbi s Discretionary Fund any amount Funds charitable purposes, at the discretion of the Associate Rabbi Contribution Form Name: Address: Enclosed is my contribution of $ to Checks for General Donations or Dedications should be made payable to Temple Israel. Checks for an Endowment or Discretionary Fund should be made payable to the specific Fund. This contribution is in honor of or in memory of Endowment Funds TEMPLE ISRAEL GENERAL ENDOWMENT FUND PURPOSE: To fund maintenance and/or capital improvement projects to Temple Israel properties. AMSTERDAM FAMILY ENDOWMENT FUND PURPOSE: To provide siddurim to Temple Israel religious school students. DONALD FELLOWS HOLOCAUST EDUCATION MEMORIAL ENDOWMENT FUND PURPOSE: To fund the education program portion of the Annual Holocaust Remembrance. PHYLLIS ANN ZWEIG FRIEDMAN ENDOWMENT FUND PURPOSE: To provide scholarship to a Temple Israel high school student to attend an Israel/Eastern Europe educational program. BARRY H. GLICK CHESED ENDOWMENT FUND PURPOSE: To fund both the cost of a professional motivational speaker who will inspire attendees to perform acts of lovingkindness AND the Chesed forum which will follow the talk. DAVID & SARA GOODMAN ENDOWMENT FUND PURPOSE: To fund supplemental Jewish experiences for Jewish youth. DAVID & SALLY KIRSCH SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND PURPOSE: To provide scholarship to a religious school graduating student for continuing Jewish religious education. ALEXANDER & SOPHIE PURITZ MEMORIAL ENDOWMENT FUND PURPOSE: To fund the Temple Israel Annual Hanukkah Party, which shall include the distribution of silver dollars to all students. MAX AARON STRACHMAN MEMORIAL LIBRARY ENDOWMENT FUND PURPOSE: To purchase educational materials for the library as well as fund library related educational events. WILLIAM & RHODA TOONKEL JEWISH MUSIC ENDOWMENT FUND PURPOSE: To promote Jewish musical education for the Temple Israel religious school, as well as other musical and cultural experiences for Temple Israel and Jewish Community Center. Page 29

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27 Temple Israel & JCC 475 Grove Street Ridgewood, NJ Non-Profit Org. US POSTAGE PAID Paramus, NJ Permit No Temple Talk...Temple Talk...