Bulletin. Temple Beth-El

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1 Temple Beth-El Bulletin Vol. 21, No. 2 February 1, Shevat Belknap Place San Antonio, Texas temple@beth-elsa.org Visiting Scholar Rabbi Josh Weinberg Thursday, February 8, 7:00 pm The Struggle for the Soul of the Jewish State: Challenges and Opportunities for Liberal Judaism Friday, February 9, 6:30 pm Shabbat Service Saturday, February 10, 11:45 am Lunch & Learn Join us for an exciting time with Rabbi Josh Weinberg, President of ARZA. Studies will begin with Rabbi Weinberg on Thursday, February 8, at 7:00 pm, continuing with Shabbat Service on February 9 at 6:30 pm where he will speak on Israel: Living the Dream, Facing the Reality. Rabbi Weinberg will conclude his weekend with a Lunch & Learn session on Saturday, February 10, directly after services. If you plan to attend, the cost is $12.00 per person, and you must RSVP at Rabbi Josh Weinberg was ordained from the Hebrew Union College Jewish Institute of Religion Israeli Rabbinic Program in Jerusalem, and currently lives in New York. Josh previously served as the Director of the Israel program for the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College and as a faculty member of NFTY-EIE High School in Israel teaching Jewish History. Josh is a reserve officer in the IDF spokesperson s unit, has hiked the Israel National Trail, and came on Aliyah to Israel in Originally from Chicago, he has a B.A. from the University of Wisconsin in Hebrew Literature, Political Science and International Relations, and studied for an M.A. at the Hebrew University in Jewish Education. Josh has taught and lectured widely throughout Israel, the U.S. and Europe, as well as on the Kivunim See pages 9-10 SAFTY and Shnat Netzer gap-year programs. He has led numerous tours and trained tour educators for the Reform movement s Israel experiences. In addition to being a Storahtelling Mayven, Josh has a passion for the environment and spends lots of time outdoors hiking and climbing, playing music and volleyball. Josh is passionate about anything connected to Israel and hopes to strengthen the connection between the Reform movement and the Jewish State. He is married to Mara Sheftel Getz, and is the proud abba of Noa, Ella and Mia. ARZA The Association of Reform Zionists of America (ARZA) is the central address for Israel engagement in the Reform Movement. ARZA works to connect Reform communities to the Jewish State, and helps clergy and lay leaders center that connection within their congregations. ARZA also partners with organizations in Israel to promote our shared values on the ground there, advancing a more inclusive and accepting Zionist vision. Together we build Reform synagogues in Israel, advocate for religious equality in the courts, and educate the public about egalitarian and progressive Judaism. ARZA works to make Israel a State for all Jews, and to connect all Jews to our shared Homeland. This event is made possible by the Jean and Jesse Wulfe Religious Enhancement Fund of Temple Beth-El. What do you love about Temple Beth-El? Send us a selfie and let us know what you love about TBE! Look for your picture and quote on the Temple website and Facebook! tory@beth-elsa.org or text

2 Cantor s Notes Judaism teaches that we should strive to be the best version of ourselves. This could mean learning to be more patient or forgiving a friend, or improving ourselves in some other way. We need to continually be learning and challenging ourselves in order to reach our highest potential. With all of our daily busy-ness though, it is easy to become stuck in a rut, repeatedly doing things the same way. I always welcome opportunities to participate in an inspiring webinar or thought-provoking conference call. I continue to take voice lessons regularly, and am grateful to my vocal coaches who help me grow. I was particularly excited last fall when Dr. Joe Causby, Organist and Choirmaster at St. Mark s Episcopal Church, invited me to participate in the inaugural Alamo Baroque Festival. Part of being a vibrant, world class city, like London, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston and Austin, is establishing a culture of early music. With the help of a generous donor, Joe created the Alamo Baroque Festival to begin to grow a cadre of local musicians who play and sing early music in San Antonio. International singers and instrumentalists who are the best in the field of Baroque music presented workshops and concerts to various groups in San Antonio, including the Children s Chorus of San Antonio and Youth Orchestras of San Antonio. I participated in the culminating concert of the festival. It was thrilling to join nineteen of the best voices in San Antonio, many of whom also sing in our High Holy Day choir, as well as about twenty musicians from the San Antonio Symphony. I was honored, albeit a bit intimidated, to be singing with such an amazing group of musicians. The music was extremely challenging technically, more so than any Jewish music I have sung recently. It was very inspiring to work with wonderful musicians singing challenging music and presenting a concert to the San Antonio community, hopefully inspiring some to carry on this genre. In her Erev Yom Kippur sermon, Rabbi Nathan spoke of how we can create sacred time in our lives to balance the time we spend being busy with life. She recounted how former Google engineer, Matthew Cutt, chose a new challenge every 30 days in order to broaden himself and his outlook on life. I found Cutt s 30 Day Challenge idea intriguing. I thought it might help me to take time each day to slow down and to appreciate the day. In October I chose to read every day. In November I challenged myself to track my food each day and to do a plank each day. December and January sort of got away from me. I missed having that daily challenge and have a new one planned for February. The discipline helps me focus and grow and appreciate blessings each day. Like most of us, I am at my best when I step out of my comfort zone and strive to do a little better every day. Page 2 Cantor Julie Berlin February Family Shabbat featuring Grade 6 Join our Grade 6 students and their families along with Leah and Joel for Family Shabbat where we will sing, pray, eat and learn together. This 45-minutes familyfriendly service is perfect for young children and Religious School aged students. The service begins at 6:15 pm and is held in the Oppenheimer Chapel. Following the service, there will be a delicious dinner. Cost for the dinner is $7 for adults, $5 for children with a maximum of $36 per family. To confirm we have enough food and space at dinner you must RSVP online at tbe-fs or call Dollie at , ext. 126 Bagels & Books Book Club The next selection for the Bagels and Books Club is The New Anti-Semitism by Phyllis Chesler. A discussion of this book, will be led by Temple member and author David Liss Sunday, February 11, 10:30 am in the Block Conference Center A dangerous worldwide coalition of Islamic terrorists, well-intentioned but misinformed students, right-wing fascists, left-wing ideologues, academics, feminists, European politicians, journalists, and international human rights organizations have joined together to again scapegoat the Jews and the Jewish state for crimes they did not commit and for whatever ails the world. In this intensely passionate and compelling book, the best-selling and prize-winning Jewish feminist author Dr Phyllis Chesler demonstrates how old-fashioned anti-semitism now often seen in the form of anti-zionism has become fashionable and even politically correct, and how this plague threatens the Jews of the world, Israel, America, and Western civilization. The 2003 edition of this book was a pioneering work that has stood the test of time. This new edition updates, expands, and strengthens the original analysis and also has a new introduction, resource section, and the answers to the twenty most frequently asked questions. The New Anti-Semitism is available on Amazon.com in traditional paper and Kindle formats. Temple Beth-El Bulletin

3 Bat Mitzvah February Isabella Sophia Provada, daughter of Laura and Paul Provada, granddaughter of Dafran and Fred Provada and Pauline and John Olsovsky Oneg Shabbat Reception February 2, 9, 23: Temple Beth-El Sisterhood February 16: Laura and Paul Provada in honor of their daughter Isabella s Bat Mitzvah Shabbat Lunch Chavurah Join us after Shabbat Morning Worship for lunch and an interesting program Open to everyone! Saturday, February 3 11:45 am in the Block Conference Room We will enjoy a delicious catered lunch and then hear from Rachel Katz, our ISJL Fellow (Institute of Southern Jewish Life). Saturday, March 3 11:45 am in the Block Conference Room We will enjoy a delicious catered lunch then see the movie, Devil s Arithmetic (95 min.) Those 65 and older are free; those under 65 are only $5. RSVP for the lunch and program to geri@beth-elsa.org or , ext Thanks to San Antonio Jewish Senior Services for making this event possible. Shabbat Services Friday, February 2 6:30 pm Shabbat Worship Service Accompaniment by Kol Simchah Rachel Katz, ISJL Fellow will offer the D var Torah Rabbi Stahl will read Torah Saturday, February 3 10:30 am Shabbat Morning Worship 10:30 am Chant and Meditation Service Torah Portion: Yitro Friday, February 9 6:15 pm Family Shabbat Service and Dinner 6:30 pm Shabbat Worship Service with Scholar in Residence, Rabbi Josh Weinberg Saturday, February 10 10:30 am Shabbat Morning Worship Elaine Kovner will offer the D var Torah Torah Portion: Mishpatim Friday, February 16 6:30 pm Shabbat Worship Service Rabbi Stahl will offer the D var Torah Bat Mitzvah of Isabella Sophia Provada 6:30 pm Lay Led Worship Service Saturday, February 17 10:30 am Shabbat Morning Worship Bat Mitzvah of Isabella Sophia Provada 10:30 am Chant and Meditation Service Torah Portion: Terumah Friday, February 23 6:30 pm Shabbat Services welcoming New Members Worship Works The Origins of Classical Reform Music Accompaniment by Temple Beth-El Band Saturday, February 24 10:00 am Shabbat Nature Hike 10:30 am Shabbat Morning Worship Torah Portion: Tetzaveh Temple Beth-El Bulletin (USPS ) is published the first of every month, except July, by Temple Beth-El, 211 Belknap Place, San Antonio, Texas Application to Mail at Periodicals postage rates is paid at San Antonio, Texas. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Temple Beth-El, 211 Belknap Place, San Antonio, Texas February 2018 Page 3

4 TBE30s40s50s February 22, 7:00 10:00 pm Join us for a night of bowling and fun at La Cantera Pkwy Ste 102, TBE50s+ Sunday, February 11, 6:00 10:00 pm Family Night & Free Dance music by Texas Rimshot Join your TBE Friends for a fun night at John T Floore Country Store Old Bandera Road, Helotes Food and drinks available. Reservations required by Friday, February 9 Call Mindi for questions at RSVP RSVP to Jessica Berg at JessicaB@lmfj.com Page 4 Sunday Afternoon Concert Series Postponed, date TBA Join Cantor Julie Berlin and Bob Brewer as they share a variety of secular and sacred music of different styles. Come hear some of their favorite musical pieces. Light refreshments will follow the concert. Look for the date announcement. Religious School Purim Celebration! Sunday, February 25 11:00 am In the Wulfe Sanctuary Religious School Purim festivities are just around the corner! Get ready for a wacky and fun morning on February 25. Be sure to come in costume for classes, which will begin as usual at 9:30 am and are sure to help our students get in the Purim spirit. At 11:00 am, families are invited to join the whole school to sing Purim songs, watch our Grade 8 students perform a hilarious Purim shpiel, and compete in our annual costume contest complete with prizes! Please bring a box of uncooked pasta or macaroni to use as your gragger (noise maker). We will collect the pasta and donate it to the San Antonio Food Bank, fulfilling the Purim mitzvah of matanot l evyonim, giving gifts to those in need. Families with preschool-aged children are also welcome to join in the fun! Sunday for families with young children Sunday, February 4 9:30 am 12:00 pm (We ll only meet once in February) In the Barshop Auditorium Join us at the Purim Carnival February 25! 11:00 am Religious School Purim Celebration 12:00 pm SAFTY Purim Carnival Special toddler room! Contact Tory Richmond for further information, tory@beth-elsa.org or , ext.158 Help us spread the story of Temple Beth-El by sharing posts about us on social media. Let your social media friends know when you participate in services, programs, and more at our Temple. And don't forget to use our hashtags #ShareShalom #tbesatx Temple Beth-El Bulletin

5 @TBE20s30s Upcoming Events: February 8, 6:30 pm McNay Art Museum Night 6000 N New Braunfels Ave, Come meet us for a FREE evening at the McNay Art Museum. We will walk around and enjoy the exhibits at the McNay and enjoy each other s company This is a family friendly activity, so feel free to bring your whole crew! February 16, 8:15 After Hours 1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria Huebner Rd, We will head to dinner together after services in the Wulfe Sanctuary at 6:30 pm and the following oneg. If you cannot make it to services, join us around 8:15 pm at 1000 Degrees. Can t wait to see everyone! February 24, 10:00 Shabbat Morning Hike Eisenhower Park NW Military Hwy, Join us for our February Shabbat Hike. Note: this will be a lay-led experience. We are meeting at the head of the Hillview Natural Trail off the parking lot. Note: this will be a lay-led experience. This experience is in addition to the already scheduled service at TBE. We will hike the trail while reflecting on the gift of nature and Shabbat. Join us afterward for a no-host lunch (location will be decided as a group). February 28, 8:30 pm Purim Bash 2018 Stone Street Pub Huebner Rd, This Purim Bash brought to you by the Young Adult Division of the Jewish Federation of San Agudas Achim, Temple Chai, Rodfei Sholom, and YJSA is not to be missed. There will be a costume contest (with prizes), Megillah reading, trivia, hamantaschen, and more! This is always a highlight of every Purim. March 10, 10:00am Shabbat Morning Hike Location TBD This March Shabbat hike experience is in addition to the already scheduled service at TBE. We will hike the trail while reflecting on the gift of nature and Shabbat. Join us afterward for a no-host lunch (location will be decided as a group). Stay tuned to our Facebook page for more details as we get closer. March 23, 8:15 After Hours Location TBD Join us for services in Wulfe Sanctuary for our Scholar in Residence, Dr. Jenna Weissman Joselit, who will speak about the intersection between Jewish religion and culture in America. Following services, we will go to dinner. Stay tuned to our Facebook page and the March bulletin for more information as we get closer to the event. April 1, 6:30 Seder We will have a full and FUN interactive seder led by Dave and Rabbi Marina Yergin at the Yergin Residence with LOTS of food for everyone. Cost will be $15 per person and a bottle of Kosher for Passover wine to both cover the cost of food and ensure there is enough wine for everyone. Your payment will be your RSVP and the link will be available closer to the seder. Poetry & Writing Workshop Chavurah Come join us as we explore writing poetry and prose as a means of expressing ourselves. Whether you are a master poet, a published author, or a beginner, this Chavurah (group of friends) is for you! Temple member Harold Rodinsky, an experienced writer and poet, facilitates this new social and informal group which is open to all. This is a safe, non-critical, non-judgmental environment in which to explore selfexpression through writing. Our in-person meetings are on the first Thursday of each month, and our next two are Thursdays, February 1 and March 1, at 6:30 pm in the Block Conference Room at the Temple. Bring writing instruments, paper, and an open mind! We meet once a month and send reminders, but find that people can t always make the in-person meeting. We ve created a private Facebook group for people to write, comment, and share, at ask to join! Sign up to be on the notification list by letting Geri Gregory (geri@beth-elsa.org) or Harold Rodinsky (haroldrodinsky@gmail.com) know. February 2018 Page 5

6 Hope תקותנו Our Celebrate with friends as Rabbi Mara Nathan and Cantor Julie Berlin lead our inspirational Seder. Music by Elaine Kovner and Wendy Geisler. 6:15 pm Shalom, 6:30 pm Seder Temple Beth-El, Barshop Auditorium Register online Invitations to be mailed soon! Tikvateinu RSVP online by March 18 Program features an Original Haggadah Page 6 Temple Beth-El Bulletin

7 Adult Education with Rachel Stern Temple Beth-El promotes life-long learning and therefore offers learning opportunities for every stage of life. In addition to exceptional youth educational opportunities, Temple Beth-El also offers a robust adult education program. One example of adult learning is our monthly Sunday morning series taught by Rachel Stern. Rachel holds Masters degrees in both Jewish Education and Jewish Non Profit Management and has been in Jewish education for over 20 years. Rachel currently serves as the Director of Education at the Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life. The Sunday classes from 9:30 to 11:00 am focus on a yearly theme and explore a multitude of angles. This year the topic is Israel. The class draws a diverse crowd and while there is great learning, the atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable, ensuring to welcome and include all levels of learners. Some participants are parents of religious school students inspired to learn with their children, while others are exploring Judaism for themselves. Some participants attend all of the sessions, while others come for the specific topics of their interest. We note with sorrow the passing of our members Arthur Stein brother of Dennis (and Kay) Stein, uncle of Dr. Tracy (and Michael) Tommack The Congregation extends its sincere condolences to the families of Michael Bley nephew of Natalie Kramer Sondra Lotman Rosenthal mother of Bobby (and Jill) Rosenthal May their souls be bound up in the bonds of eternal life. Everyone is welcome and everyone becomes part of the unique classroom community that Temple has fostered. You will leave with new ideas to think about and happy that you took this time for yourself. February 4 ABC s of Israeli Organizations So many groups support the State of Israel. Which ones are right for me? A primer session on what s out there and how various groups differ in mission, perspective, and prominence. March 4 Marking Holy Time in the Holy Land How does the rhythm of Jewish life change when all the rules are Jewish? April 8 Da-ati vs. Cheloni The clash between religious and secular values in the state of Israel. How do tensions between the ultra-religious and the secular communities play out big picture and day to day? April 29 (DATE CHANGE) Cultural Diversity in the Holy Land Who makes up the population in Israel today? How does this impact the reality of a Democratic Jewish state in the future? If you are interested in attending any of the classes, RSVP to sara@beth-elsa.org. In the Temple Family We congratulate those celebrating life s joyous occasions Rabbi Marina and David Yergin on the birth of their son, Trevor Miles Yergin. We congratulate those who have achieved something extra-special Harold Rodinsky, on the publication of his new book of poetry, Many Lives. We congratulate those celebrating milestone birthdays in February Lourdes Benjamin, Edee Berkus, Rabbi Alan Berlin, Ruth Butler, Rick Byrd, Ruth Chafetz, Mauricio Cohn, Eddie Duchin, Henry Fischl, Natalie Joss, Gail Korzeniowski, Eric Kraus, Erin Kraus, Lauren Kraus, Roselle Lebo, Betty Lifshutz, Rosalie Miller, Charlotte Pollock, Milton Porterfield, Grant Sechler, Ellen Sims, Jodi Starr and Barbara Vorhes. We congratulate those celebrating milestone anniversaries in February 25 Years: Mary Barad and John Seidenfeld; Robin and Michael Bernstein 30 Years: Marcia Goren Weser and Dr. Elliot Weser 65 Years: Helene and Arthur Riklin Bulletin Deadline The deadline for the March Temple Bulletin will be Monday, February 12, at 12:00 pm. All articles and photos must be submitted by that time. Articles and photos may be submitted via to geri@beth-elsa.org. Articles may not exceed 250 words. February 2018 Page 7

8 SAFTY Food! Fun! Games! Prize Sunday, February 25 12:00 2:00 pm in the Barshop Auditorium Join us, after Religious School, for an afternoon full of Food!, Games!, Raffles! Prizes! and lots of Fun! Jump on the INFLATABLES, munch on HAMANTASCHEN, and design your own cupcakes at the CupCake Walk. This year we will be introducing a brand new Toddler Carnival Room for children 5 and under! The room will feature age appropriate games, crafts, and snacks! All proceeds from the Carnival benefit the Youth Fund, which funds all Temple Youth Group and Informal Education programming throughout the year. Celebrate with us and make sure our programs continue for years to come! Help us grow our Jewish future Become a Purim Carnival Sponsor! Sponsorships help underwrite the cost of the Carnival and other major youth programs. Your contribution benefits the Youth Fund, which funds all TBE Youth Programming and informal education. Sponsor the 2018 Purim Carnival and help us create more meaningful Jewish experiences and connections for our kids and teens. Contribute online or submit this form with payment to Temple Beth-El, Attn: Joel Swedlove, Director of Youth Programs & Informal Education. Questions? Contact Joel Swedlove, joel@beth-elsa.org, or call , ext Name: Phone: Select your sponsorship level: $1000 Hero of the Jewish People (includes 6 wristbands and 5 dozen hamantaschen) $500 Hero of Shushan (includes 2 wristbands and 3 dozen hamantaschen) $360 Queen Esther (includes 2 wristbands and 1 dozen hamantaschen) $180 Mordechai (includes 1 wristband) $90 King Ahasuerus $36 Queen Vashti Other: All sponsorships will be published in the April bulletin. They will also be displayed at the Purim Carnival. Please let us know if you prefer not to have your contribution published.

9 Inflatables! s! Raffle! Raffle Tickets 1 for $5 or 3 for $12 Prizes will be announced soon! Raffle will occur during the carnival. If raffle ticket is pre-ordered online, you will be ed the week before the carnival with the numbers of your ticket(s). Youth Committee members will fill in the appropriate information. Raffle tickets will also be sold on the day of the Purim Carnival. It s time for Hamantaschen! It s that time of year again! We are getting ready for the annual SAFTY Purim Carnival by whipping up batch after batch of our famous hamantaschen. We ll be baking up a storm in the Temple kitchen and we need your help. Come be a part of the fun! No baking experience necessary. Pizza included at every session. Baking sessions are open to everyone Grade 6 and up! Sunday February 4, 12:00 3:30 pm Wednesday February 7, 6:00 8:00 pm Sunday February 11, 12:00 3:30 pm Wednesday February 14, 6:00 8:30 pm Wednesday February 21, 6:00 8:30 pm RSVP to Joel for any date you plan to bake so we have enough hands in the kitchen and pizza for bakers! Joel Swedlove, Director of Youth Programs & Informal Education at joel@beth-elsa.org or call , ext Order your HAMANTASCHEN and TICKETS now! All hamantaschen are sold in 1 dozen quantities Select Flavor(s) of hamantaschen: $ 10 per dozen Assorted Cherry Blueberry Apricot Chocolate Poppyseed Peach Advanced Wristbands for the Carnival! (a wristband entitles the wearer to unlimited games, facepainting, balloon animals, etc.) Wristbands: x $30 each Toddler Room Wristbands: x $15 Advanced Tickets for Carnival: good for individual games as well as food items at the snack bar 20 for $10 30 for $15 40 for $20 60 for $25 Pick up your hamantaschen and pre-order items at the carnival on February 25. Enclosed is my check for: $ Pay by credit card: $ Card type Expiration Name on Card Card number Address and Zip Code Please submit form and payment NO LATER THAN February 19. SAFTY at Temple Beth-El, 211 Belknap Place, San Antonio, TX Questions? Contact Joel Swedlove, Director of Youth Programs & Informal Education at joel@beth-elsa.org or call x151. order online:

10 You are invited Nitsana Darshan-Leitner Israeli Activist and Attorney, President of Shurat HaDin Author of: HARPOON Inside the Covert War Against Terrorism s Money Masters Thursday, February 15 at 7:15 pm Campus of the Jewish Community NW Military Hwy A groundbreaking look at how spies, soldiers, statesmen, and lawyers waged a relentless campaign to dry up the financial streams that funded terrorism against Israel and the United States. A great read about a compelling issue. Alan Dershowitz This is the story of how Mossad led this movement and substantially effected investigations of terrorism and similarly important matters and how this influenced the CIA s later work in the same field R. James Woolsey, former CIA director Darshan-Leitner is regularly interviewed and provides commentary in the global media and was recognized by Forbes Israel as one of the Fifty Most Influential Israeli Women of 2016 and by The Jerusalem Post as one of the Most Influential Jews. Sponsored by the Jewish Federation of San Antonio and Congregation Rodfei Sholom, Cosponsored by Congregation Agudas Achim, Chabad Center and Temple Beth-El. Reservations are encouraged. For more information and reservations please contact the Israel Public Action Committee of Congregation Rodfei Sholom, , ext. 212 or the Jewish Federation at Page 10 Temple Beth-El Bulletin

11 Sisterhood News What s Cooking in February? Retreat Sisterhood is on retreat the first weekend in February at the SchlitterStein Lofts in New Braunfels. The agenda includes relaxation, friendship and food. Fran Cohen and committee have planned the details. Elaine Kovner will lead Shabbat services. Susan Butler is hosting a jewelry workshop. The condo space is courtesy of Kay and Dennis Stein. Trish Marcus will ensure that tasty treats are plated to be served at the Temple Shabbat oneg. Aids Foundation Dinner The Temple Cooking Project will be preparing a meal for the San Antonio Area Aids Foundation in the Temple kitchen on Sunday, February 18 from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm. Interacting in the kitchen is a great opportunity to get to know other congregants, maybe even pick up some cooking tips. Recipes and ingredients are provided. To join the fun, RSVP to Kay Stein at Kay78232@gmail.com. Purim Party The Temple Cooking Project will be preparing the food for the Temple Purim Party on February 28. Your help is needed in the kitchen in advance of the party. For more information, contact Kay Stein at Kay78232@gmail.com. More Activities Planning for community service and social activities continues. Sisterhood President Shirley Swanson welcomes your input. Contact Shirley at Shirl_Swanson@yahoo.com. Educator s Edition Last month, a group of delegates from San Antonio Federation s partnership region in Budapest visited our Tuesday Hebrew school students. When I mentioned to Joel that part of their presentation was a promotional video about a Jewish camp, Joel quipped that showing these videos to kids is always fun because afterwards one will always yell out, I SO am going this summer! A lot of kids watch videos of their peers on water slides and zip lines, singing around a campfire with s mores, playing sports and learning to play the guitar and want in on the action. When they can picture doing that in a Jewish setting, it s even better. Camp is a foundational Jewish experience. According to a preliminary report from a soon-to-be-released study conducted by the URJ, camp and youth program alumni are far more likely to care about being Jewish than are the general Reform population (as represented by the Pew survey data). Alumni, regardless of whether they come from interfaith families, are more than twice as likely (81% vs. 37%) to say that identifying as Jewish is very important to them. Our goal as a Jewish education staff is to create meaningful, educational Jewish experiences for our students. With that in mind, I hope families with students in Grade 1-Grade 9 will attend a Greene Family Camp informational session for parents and kids at Rabbi Nathan s home at 4:30 pm on February 11. Leadership staff from camp will be on hand to schmooze and answer any questions. Hope to see you there. Sisterhood: The Original Social Network Leah Apothaker, Director of Congregational Learning On January 19 Rabbi Nathan was introduced by U.S. House speaker Rep. Paul Ryan as she offered the opening invocation at the U.S. House. The honor was coordinated by Rep. Joaquin Castro. She and Joel Swedlove, our Director of Youth Programming, were in D.C. with a group of teens participating in a L taken Seminar with the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism. February 2018 Page 11

12 Help us celebrate the deep impact that the Jewish community has had on the city of San Antonio throughout the years! Join us as we mark the 70th Anniversary of the State of Israel with an Israeli shuk style street fair, live entertainment, kids activities, kosher food vendors and displays highlighting the rich history of the San Antonio Jewish community! Mayor Ron Nirenberg, Shindig Grand Marshal For more information contact Sunday, 12pm 8pm Corner of Ashby & Belknap in the Monte Vista Neighborhood Shindig Partner Organizations Alamo Alamo Brandeis Brandeis Lodge Lodge B nai B nai B rith B rith Barshop Jewish Community Center Chabad Center Congregation Agudas Achim Congregation Beth Am Congregation Rodfei Sholom Israel Bonds Jewish Family Service Temple Beth-El Chai Temple Chai Beth-El San Antonio Jewish Senior Services Shindig Sponsors Halff Family Foundation Kaliff Insurance The Jesse H. & Susan R. Oppenheimer Foundation Page 12 Temple Beth-El Bulletin

13 MLK Service at Antioch Baptist Church January Shabbat Lunch Chavurah TBE60s+ Singles Toured the Toyota San Antonio Plant! February 2018 Page 13

14 We Gratefully Acknowledge the Contributions of Our Members and Friends Contributions received in the Temple office by Thursday, February 8 will appear in the March Temple Bulletin. Contributions received after February 8 will appear in the April Temple Bulletin. Contributions are welcome to any of our funds at any time. For a list of Temple funds and their descriptions, go to the Temple website at You may also make a contribution online at RABBI NATHAN S DISCRETIONARY FUND IN APPRECIATION AND IN HONOR OF The wedding ceremony of Mimi Mimi Jefferson and Jefferson and Kalav Mistry Kalav Mistry IN HONOR OF THE BIRTHDAY OF Glenda Neuwirth Dr. Yair Gazitt Idelle Ringel Abramson Ann Barshop Leah Burstein Reesa Pullen Sondra Lotman Rosenthal Julie and Jonathan Starr RABBI YERGIN S DISCRETIONARY FUND IN APPRECIATION James Kallison Mina Lopez IN HONOR OF THE CONVERSION CEREMONY OF Brandon Henson Laura Rustin Mina Lopez John Newman, Jr. IN HONOR OF THE BIRTH OF Trevor Miles Yergin Margie and Stanley Sherman RABBI STAHL S DISCRETIONARY FUND IN HONOR OF THE BIRTHDAY OF Nancy Portnoy Sandra and Fredric Kline Leah Burstein Maynard Burstein and Family CANTOR BERLIN S DISCRETIONARY FUND IN APPRECIATION Beth and Dr. Paul Rogers FINE ARTS FUND IN HONOR OF The engagement of Susan Harold Rodinsky Rodinsky and Erik Selzer GENERAL OPERATING FUND OF TEMPLE BETH-EL IN HONOR OF MANY YEARS OF FRIENDSHIP Pam and Mark Ayers Dana and Bart Klein Michele and Alan Krapf Karen and David Palans Jeanne and Dr. Jay Rubin Iris Berman-Smith and Charley Smith Drs. Isabel Bass and Peter Wald Idelle Abramson Jeannie and Alvin Frieden Anna Rado Elvira Real Downing Marsha Krassner and Dr. David Spener Etnyline Friedman Mark Friedman Marie Mangum Micheline and George Rotblut Julius Palans Judy and Seymour Palans Dorothy Ratner Sylvia and Dr. Herb Brown Sondra Lotman Rosenthal Sally Halff Mindi Alterman and Dr.Glenn Halff Page 14 Temple Telephone Extensions ( ) Rabbi Mara S. Nathan Rabbi Marina Yergin Cantor Julie Berlin Rabbi Alan Berlin, Executive Director Leah Apothaker, Director of Congregational Learning. 105 Joel Swedlove, Director of Youth Programs & Informal Education Iris Berman-Smith, Clergy and Cemetery Administrator Geri Gregory, Member Services Coordinator Bernard Rubin Ann and Roger Ojeda IN APPRECIATION OF The Hanukkah celebration Harriet Shpiner at Adante CONTRIBUTIONS Laura Castillo Adrienne Goodwin Debby Kalk Harold Thornton Todd Stein JACOBSON GARDEN FUND JUDY RUTSTEIN Charles Bry Judy Rutstein Reva Bry JEAN AND JESSE WULFE RELIGIOUS ENHANCEMENT FUND Sondra Lotman Rosenthal Susan and Ken Gindy JULIETTE & JACK ART MA ASEH SCHOLARSHIP FUND Jack Art Maxine and Dick Zucker Juliette Art Esther Zucker Ray Zucker KAY AND DENNIS STEIN KITCHEN FUND Annie Hampton Emily and Rob Kaufman CONTRIBUTION Kay and Dennis Stein LANDSMAN FAMILY RELIEF FUND IN HONOR OF MANY YEARS OF FRIENDSHIP Pam and Mark Ayers Dana and Bart Klein Michele and Alan Krapf Karen and David Palans Jeanne and Dr. Jay Rubin Iris Berman-Smith and Charley Smith Drs. Isabel Bass and Peter Wald SISTERHOOD FUND Alex Levinson Marjorie Gernsbacher TEMPLE ENDOWMENT FUND IN HONOR OF THE BIRTHDAY OF Marcia Katz Michael Bley Jean Ladensohn Kenneth R. Ladensohn Nancy and Jerry Gerson Elaine and Steve Kovner Charlotte and Robert Pollock Ruthie and Dick Wurzburg Natalie Kramer Sydney and Jon Stern Tory Richmond, Membership Director Michael Kung, Facilities Manager Michael Ringel, Controller Edith Vanderventer, Rabbinic Assistant & Cantorial Assistant Sara Planto, Religious School Administrator Dollie Closna, Administrative Assistant Miranda Sutin, Librarian Reservations Hotline Temple Beth-El Bulletin

15 February 2018 Page 15 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Keep the Temple Informed We rely on our Temple members, their friends and family to let us know when someone is hospitalized or suffering any illness or bereavement, or would just enjoy a call or visit from the clergy or a member of the congregation. The clergy would also like to hear good news, such as celebrating a birth or other simchah. Please share this information with our clergy by calling Iris Berman-Smith at , ext :30 am Religious School 9:30 am Sunday Funday 9:30 am Adult Learning w/ Rachel Stern 12:00 pm SAFTY Hamantaschen Baking :30 am Religious School 9:30 am Grade 7 Family Ed Day 10:30 am Bagel & Books: The New Anti-Semitism by Phiyllis Chesler 12:00 pm SAFTY Hamantaschen Baking 4:30 pm GFC Info Session, Nathan residence 6:00 pm TBE50s John T. Floore Country Store No Religious School Purim Carnival 9:30 am Religious School 11:00 am Religious School Purim Celebration 12:00 pm SAFTY Purim Carnival February 2018 Shevat/Adar Shevat 17 Shevat 18 Shevat 19 Shevat 20 Shevat 21 Shevat 22 Shevat 23 Shevat 24 Shevat 25 Shevat 26 Shevat 27 Shevat 28 Shevat 29 Shevat 30 Shevat 1 Adar 2 Adar 12:00 pm Bulletin Deadline 3 Adar 4 Adar 5 Adar 6 Adar 7 Adar 8 Adar 9 Adar President s Day 4:30 pm Hebrew JCC 7:00 pm Board Meeting 4:30 pm Hebrew JCC 4:30 pm Hebrew JCC 10 Adar 11 Adar 12 Adar 13 Adar 4:30 pm Hebrew JCC 4:30 pm Hebrew TBE 5:30 pm Sisterhood Sip n Schmooze 6:00 pm SAFTY Hamantaschen Baking 4:30 pm Hebrew TBE 6:00 pm SAFTY Hamantaschen Baking 4:30 pm Hebrew TBE 6:00 pm SAFTY Hamantaschen Baking Erev Purim 4:30 pm Hebrew TBE 6:00 pm Purim Shpiel & Happy Hour 8:30 pm TBE20s30s Purim Bash :30 pm Poetry & Writing Workshop Chavurah 6:30 pm TBE20s30s McNay Art Museum Night 7:00 pm Rabbi Josh Weinberg 7:15 pm Author Nitsana JCC 7:00 pm TBE30s40s50s Bowl & Barrel, La Cantera Pkwy 6:30 pm Shabbat Worship Service Accompaniment by Kol Simchah Rachel Katz, ISJL Fellow will offer the D var Torah Rabbi Stahl will read Torah 6:15 pm Family Shabbat Service and Dinner 6:30 pm Shabbat Worship Service Scholar in Residence, Rabbi Josh Weinberg 6:30 pm Shabbat Worship Service Rabbi Stahl will offer the D var Torah Bat Mitzvah of Isabella Sophia Provada 6:30 pm Lay Led Worship Service 8:15 pm TBE20s30s After Hours 6:30 pm Shabbat Service welcoming New Members Worship Works The Origins of Classical Reform Music Accompaniment by Temple Beth-El Band 9:00 am Shabbat Torah Study 10:30 am Shabbat Morning Worship 10:30 am Chant and Meditation Service 12:00 pm Shabbat Lunch Havurah w/rachel Katz 9:00 am Shabbat Torah Study 10:30 am Shabbat Morning Worship Elaine Kovner will offer the D var Torah 12:00 pm Lunch-n-Learn with Rabbi Weinberg 9:00 am Shabbat Torah Study 10:30 am Shabbat Morning Worship Bat Mitzvah of Isabella Sophia Provada 10:30 am Chant and Meditation Service 9:00 am Shabbat Torah Study 10:00 am Shabbat Nature Hike 10:30 am Shabbat Morning Worship Photos of Historic Jewish Businesses Needed! As part of the Jewish Community s involvement in the city s 300 th anniversary, businesses run by Jewish families will be recognized. These businesses should be at least 50 years old, or have been in existence more than 50 years ago. If you know of a business that fits this category, please let us know its name and the name of owner. If you have any photos of the business please send a copy to Geri Gregory at geri@beth-elsa.org. Temple Telephone: FAX: temple@beth-elsa.org March Bulletin Deadline: February 12, at 12:00 pm

16 Officers David Adelman, President Jim Halff, Senior Vice President Dr. Amy Benedikt, Vice President Russell Davis, Vice President Dr. Debra Morrow, Vice President Jean Kolovson, Treasurer Perry Wulfe, Secretary Auxiliaries Andy Kabbe, Brotherhood President Shirley Swanson, Sisterhood President Ashley Rosen, SAFTY President Rabbis Mara S. Nathan, Senior Rabbi Marina Yergin, Assistant Rabbi Dr. Samuel M. Stahl, Emeritus Cantor Julie Berlin Professional Staff Rabbi Alan Berlin, Executive Director Leah Apothaker, Director of Congregational Learning Joel Swedlove, Director of Youth Programs & Informal Education Iris Berman-Smith, Clergy & Cemetery Administrator Michael Ringel, Controller Geri Gregory, Member Services Coordinator Tory Richmond, Membership Director Michael D. Kung, Facilities Manager 211 Belknap Place San Antonio, Texas Address Service Requested TIME SENSITIVE MATERIAL Mission Statement of Congregation Beth-El The mission of Congregation Beth-El (also known as Temple Beth-El ) is to create a welcoming and vibrant house of God that inspires a community of Reform Jews committed to meaningful worship, spiritual growth, tikkun olam, and outreach within and beyond our Congregation. PERIODICAL Congregational Purim Celebration Wednesday, February 28 6:00 pm Right after Hebrew School all ages welcome! Dinner Haman's Happy Hour No charge All-original spiel featuring your favorite staff and Temple members Based on the feature film The Greatest Showman Wear your best themed costumes!