The Message
Congregation Beth Yeshurun March 2020
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From Rabbi Brian Strauss
difficult Jewish holiday during their years of captivity? You would think it would be Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish year. Or perhaps Passover, the holiday of freedom. However, they will often tell you the most difficult day of the year was Purim. Because they kept asking - Where is our Queen Esther?
This month we celebrate the festive holiday of Purim. While we celebrate with carnivals, hamantaschen, and costumes, the holiday also brings up some serious theological issues. Purim is one of the most unusual stories in the entire Hebrew Bible. A man named Haman wants to destroy the Jewish people simply because one Jew (Mordechai) will not bow down to him. Unfortunately, he has the power to murder all of the Jews because of his status and access to King Achashverosh. In the end, the Jewish people are saved by Queen Esther who convinces the King to save her people. Until that time, she had kept her Judaism secret.
There are countless theological explanations for the Holocaust. There is the Chasidic view that all which emanates from God is hesed (goodness, kindness) though its understanding may be hidden from our finite perspective. There is also the traditional view that the Jews were punished for the majority’s tendency to assimilate and distance themselves from the tradition. There is also a more modern view that God gave humankind the freedom to choose. But the price of free choice is evil. Humans, not God, perpetrated the Holocaust. God allows us to do bad things but can help us do good things. Through prayer, study, the power of a religious community, and the strength of our tradition, God can inspire all of us to do more good in this world.
Is it Esther that saves the people? What about God? Where is God in the story? The story of Purim is the only text in the Hebrew Bible, except for the Song of Songs, that does not mention the name of God explicitly. Yet, according to the tradition, God works behind the scenes. God works through Esther and affects the outcome for the best.
No matter what you believe, we are all free to help those in need. Today, while genocide continues in parts of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, what are we doing to help? What are our children doing? Will we stand by or learn from Queen Esther’s example? Because God often works through us. I believe God needs all of us more than ever.
No matter what we may believe about God, we may ask, why did God wait so long during the Holocaust? Yes, eventually, the Allies defeated the Nazis and liberated the concentration camps. But only after the Germans and their collaborators had murdered millions of innocents. Ask any religious Jewish survivor what was the most
We Value Our Members Beth Yeshurun is a community institution with a vital mission: to offer spiritual experiences that inspire and uplift all ages, to educate children and adults, and to provide a setting in which Judaism can be joyously lived and experienced.
Congregation Beth Yeshurun Rhona & Bruce Caress Family Campus 4525 Beechnut St.│Houston, TX 77096-1801 713.666.1881│www.bethyeshurun.org
Interested in Joining? Our synagogue welcomes people of the Jewish faith and their families to make Beth Yeshurun their spiritual home. Mindi Stern, our Director of Member Relations, (713.666.1881) is here to welcome everyone interested in becoming part of our beautiful congregational family.
The Message Vol. LV, No. 4 February 2020│Shevat-Adar 5780 The Message of Congregation Beth Yeshurun (USPS 968500) is published monthly August-June by Congregation Beth Yeshurun, 4525 Beechnut, Houston, Harris County, TX 77096-1801. Periodical Postage Paid at Houston, Texas.
Do You Have a Question about Your Membership? Members who may have special needs, whose family situations have changed or who have questions about their membership in the synagogue will find a responsive and empathetic ear by arranging a visit with Mindi Stern, our Director of Member Relations, (713.666.1881).
Postmaster send address changes to Congregation Beth Yeshurun │4525 Beechnut│Houston, TX 77096-1801. Front Cover Photos taken from January and February programming at Beth Yeshurun and within the community including: The Daddy Daughter Dance, Family Camp, Collage Jewish Federation of Greater Houston Women’s Philanthropy Signature Event. Want to see your photo? Make sure to tag Beth Yeshurun when posting!
Follow Us Online! Beth Yeshurun is an active and engaging congregation for members of all ages and backgrounds. To learn more about our ongoing and special programming, visit our website (www.bethyeshurun.org) or follow us on our Facebook page under “Congregation Beth Yeshurun.“ 2
AROUND THE SHUL MENSCH OF THE MONTH
MAZEL MOMENTS
Marsha Abramson is our very deserving “Mensch of the Month” for March 2020. Through the years, Marsha has ser ved on various Beth Yeshurun committees (education, ritual, Bar/Bat Mitzvah), but truly found her calling through social action. Initially she joined other volunteers at the St. Joseph Food Pantry and also brought much-needed groceries to residents in Houston’s 6th Ward. Marsha was instrumental in developing the highly successful Sack Lunch project at SEARCH Homeless Shelter where congregant volunteers make sandwiches and high protein sack lunches for homeless individuals. Last year, her social action team partnered with Kids’ Meals; each month they assemble 200 healthy lunch packs for preschool-aged children who do not have access to school-based free meal programs. “I have enjoyed organizing these projects from the beginning because of the impact they have on so many people,” explains Marsha. “From our fellow Houstonians experiencing homelessness and hunger to the agencies who work to end that cycle to our volunteer participants… all are impacted and derive benefit.”
L’dor Vador (Vador). A hearty Mazel Tov to Shirley Cooper whose grandchildren, Eli and Abby Lennon Sapir, welcomed twin boys in Eretz Yisrael. Shirley now has six GREAT grandchildren. The twins have even more reason to visit Houston as their great aunt and great uncle happen to be our own Tobi Cooper and Rabbi Danny Horwitz. (Never too early to start Torah Trope training, right Rabbi Danny?) So Mazel Tov to four generations of Coopers (and all the happy relatives). Mazel Tov to Blanche and Irving Rose and Annie & Isadore Reichek on their 70th Wedding Anniversaries! We asked each couple what their three secrets to a long and successful marriage are, and this is what they said: Blanche and Irving Blanche & Irving Rose Rose - Mutual respect; Being surrounded in Galveston July, 1949 by a loving family, and getting joy from their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; Grateful for having each other through the good times and the bad times. Annie & Isadore Reichek - They look out for each other and always try to show their love for each other; Having wonderful children who look out for them; As long as they can watch John Wayne movies together, they will get along.
JEWISH EXPERIENCE
Welcome to the ‘hood! Certainly by now, most of you have made it to the new H-E-B in Meyerland Plaza. Well, if you have, you not only noticed a beautiful new grocery store designed to help with the neighborhood’s recovery from Hurricane Harvey, but also one with expansive Kosher sections, the likes of which the City has never seen. The 95,000 square-foot grocery offers a dedicated kosher bakery and butcher plus aisles stocked with kosher frozen food, fish, and dairy items produced in-store and approved by a full-time mashgiach. Even the coffee shop and cafe features kosher coffee, snacks, and sandwiches that have been developed specifically for this location. H-E-B has been working with the Houston Kashruth Association and also Chabad to ensure the store remains in compliance with all the religious restrictions. So it may be time to pay the new H-E-B a (or another) visit, especially with Pesach (or even Shabbat) just around the corner).
Marsha and her husband Arnold are native Houstonians and lifelong Beth Yeshurun members. They have four children and 10 grandchildren and pass along the spirit of volunteerism through family projects like a Hanukkah “mitzvah night” in which they all get together to make survival kits for the homeless. Marsha’s gift of Tzadakah was passed down from her parents, Rae & Buddy Gerson, who continue to be active in our synagogue and community. In fact, Rae was our inaugural “Mensch of the Month” (August 2019) for her long-standing volunteer work for patients at MD Anderson. It’s not surprising that Marsha and her family have worked alongside her mother by serving Christmas Day Lunch at the hospital for the past 25 years. In honor of Marsha, Rabbi Strauss will make a donation to SEARCH Homeless Shelter.
THE SCHTICK A group of five Jewish women are eating lunch in a busy cafe. Nervously, their waiter approaches the table. “Ladies,” he says. “Is anything okay?” Please send all nominations and ideas to Ron Brounes at ron@ronbrounes.com Only submitted material will be considered for publication. 3
Star the megillah reading Wars
It’s a Mitzvah
Interested in sponsoring a Chapel Minyan weekday breakfast, or a Chapel or Museum Minyan Shabbat Kiddush in memory of your loved one or in honor of a simcha? Please contact Eileen Pettigrew, Food Service Manager, at epettigrew @ bethyeshurun . org or 713.666.1881, ext. 368. Sponsorships will be acknowledged in The Message. Standard breakfasts begin at $120 and kiddushes begin at $145. Special meals may be arranged with the Food Service Department and monthly sponsorships are available. All sponsorships must be paid in advance. Dates will be reserved in the order they are received.
Monday, March 9, 2020 Enjoy this year’s retelling of the Purim story with a Star Wars twist! All are welcome to attend. Come in costume – especially Star Wars costumes – and May the Force Be With You!
IN HONOR OF Chapel Community by Harry Brand Karol’s 75th birthday by the Dr. Daniel Musher Family IN MEMORY OF Jo Capito & Linda Penn by Pam Penn Rosalind Chess by by Linda, Joel & Esther Chess Edith Kaplan and Fred Weisselberg by Susan Gumbiner and Alex Weisselberg Joseph Klaiman by Michael Klaiman Amelia Kornfeld by The Kornfeld Family Harold Levine by Martine Levine Dora Freedman Levit by Leah Levit Murray Lieberman by Steven & Pepper Lieberman Florence Eisen Rosenthal by Stewart and Louise Rosenthal Hyman Sofer by Roger & Linden Sofer Philip A Zuber by Merryl and Gordon Zuber
Main Sanctuary Celebration Costume Parade at 6:30pm Megillah Reading at 6:45pm
Hamentashen Dessert Bar
7:30pm in Stein Hall
6th-12th Grade Hamentashen Schmooze
7:30pm in the Swartz Youth Lounge
Happy Purim! TRADITIONAL MEGILLAH READING Monday, March 9th at 6:30pm & Tuesday, March 10th at 6:45am in the J.B. Greenfield Chapel
Coming to See Us?
The Synagogue Office is open Monday through Thursday from 8:30am to 5:00pm, and Friday from 8:30am to 4:00pm. While members and guests are always welcome to visit with our clergy and staff as needs arise, we encourage members to make an appointment first, if at all possible, so that we can make sure you receive the time and attention you both require and deserve.
MUSEUM MINYAN MEGILLAH READING Monday, March 9th at 6:30pm in Reiches Hall
In need of Support?
CEMETERY UPDATE It has been brought to our attention that ornaments are being tied around tree limbs near family gravesites. The Beth Yeshurun Cemetery Association would appreciate it if the ornaments were removed as soon as possible. When it is necessary to trim tree limbs, our cemetery staff will remove any ornaments remaining and they will not be replaced.
Our Clergy want to be with you and help you deal with life’s many challenges.
If you have a death in the family, a loved one is in the hospital, or need a get well prayer for someone special, contact the synagogue at 713.666.1881 so that our Clergy can be a source of strength and support.
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Worship Services FRIDAY EVENINGS
March 6, 2020 Parashat T’tzavveh | Shabbat Zachor | CL 6:08pm 5:30 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel 6:00 PM - Shabbat Renewal Service
3/1 3/6 3/8 3/9 3/11 3/14 3/18 3/23 3/24 3/26 3/27 3/28 3/29 4/3 4/8 4/9 4/10 4/11
March 13, 2020 Parashat Ki Tisa | CL 7:12pm 6:00 PM - Shabbat Renewal Service 6:30 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel March 20, 2020 Parashat Vayakhel-Pekudei Shabbat Hahodesh | CL 7:16pm 6:00 PM - Shabbat Renewal Service 6:30 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel March 27, 2020 Parashat Vayikra | CL 7:21pm 6:00 PM - Shabbat Renewal Service 6:30 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel April 3, 2020 Parashat Tzav | Shabbat HaGadol | CL 7:25pm 6:00 PM - Shabbat Renewal Service 6:30 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel SATURDAY MORNING 8:30 AM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel 9:15 AM - Museum Minyan Service 9:30 AM - Sanctuary Service 10:15 AM - Shabbat Shalom 11:45 AM - Torah Study
Kosher Chili Cookoff AIPAC Conference Begins Kol Rinah Daylight Savings Purim Carnival Star Wars Megillah 100 Jewish Men MyShabbat YES Group Passover Workshop Security Training Sisterhood Passover Workshop Rabbi Israel Breakfast Gathering Place CBY Socials Tot Shabbat MyShabbat Young Parent Series Social Action Shabbat First Night Seder CBY Admin/BYDS Closed for Passover I Second Night Seder at Beth Yeshurun CBY Admin/BYDS Closed for Passover II Newborn Shabbat
Every Tuesday: Wisdom of Torah at 8am Every Wednesday: Meditation & Israeli Dancing
SATURDAY EVENING SERVICES March 7, 2020 | 6:00 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel March 14, 2020 | 7:00 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel March 21, 2020 | 7:00 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel March 28, 2020 | 7:00 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel April 4, 2020 | 7:15 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel
Our clergy want to help you transition from everyday life to a more spiritual time by enhancing your Shabbat experience. Each package comes equipped with a full kosher meal prepared by our Catering Department, the Shabbat essentials, and a Shabbat Message from our clergy to share at the table.
WEEKDAY CHAPEL SERVICES Week of March 1st Mornings: Sun 8:00am, Mon-Fri 7:00am, Afternoon/Evenings: Sun-Thu 5:30pm Week of March 8th Mornings: Sun 8:00am, Mon 7:00am, Tue 6:45am, Wed-Fri 7:00am; Afternoon/Evenings: SunThu 6:30pm Week of March 15th Mornings: Sun 8:00am, Mon-Fri 7:00am; Afternoon/Evenings: Sun-Thu 6:30pm Week of March 22nd Mornings: Sun 8:00am, Mon-Wed 7:00am, Thu 6:45am, Fri 7:00am; Afternoon/Evenings: Sun-Thu 6:30pm Week of March 29th Mornings: Sun 8:00am, Mon-Fri 7:00am; Afternoon/Evenings: Sun-Thu 6:30pm
$18 Per Person Minimum 4 People March 13, 2020 Menu Apricot Grilled Chicken with Sautéed Green Beans, Roasted Potatoes, Mixed Green Salad, & Chocolate Cake Registration closes at noon on Tuesday, March 10th
www.bethyeshurun.org/shabbattogo 5
I CAN SO BE TWO THINGS AT ONCE 100 Jewish Men is a group of men dedicated to improving themselves and each other as men, fathers, husbands, brothers, sons, friends and Jews. Through controversial, thought-provoking speakers and small group discussions, we will explore what usually remains unspoken in men’s lives at work and at home. We have an incredible year planned and we hope you choose to be part of it.
Rabbi Horwitz
about it either.
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO REGISTER VISIT BETHYESHURUN.ORG/100JM
Do you ever feel that you are caught between two opposite poles? You have a task to complete, and you know that “haste makes waste,” so you better take the time to do it right, but you also know that “he who hesitates is lost,” and you better get it done now. Somehow, you have to get the job done well and not take forever
We have a similar phenomenon near the beginning of our morning prayers. On the one hand, in a section that is also included on Yom Kippur, we declare: “What are we? What is our life? What is our piety? What is our righteousness?” We admit we live a short life, don’t accomplish much, and, in short, are not really any better than the animals. But the next paragraph declares just the opposite: we are partners in God’s covenant, “Your firstborn people.” God loves us! We have status, we have dignity, we are special! So which one is true?
All dinners at 7:00 pm followed by programs at 7:30 pm. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11 - CONSTABLE ALAN ROSEN “Keeping our Families Safe” Having worked in Law Enforcement for over 23 plus years, and with the Harris County Constable’s Office for over 14 of those years, Constable Alan Rosen’s training, education, and depth of experience makes him uniquely qualified to provide the leadership and management skills needed for the success and growth of the Precinct One Constable’s Office.
The answer is: both are true. It depends on which one you need to be. Many situations call for courage and confidence. If you’re the one person who can save the life of someone drowning, that’s no time for meekness. If you’re a person in a crowd who can help prevent it from becoming a mob, don’t say: “Who am I to do such a thing?” Or, before Election Day, it’s not right for us to say: “What do I know?” Learn what you need to learn, make your best choice and cast your ballot.
A life-long Houstonian, Constable Rosen completed his Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Houston, where he graduated with honors. He is deeply committed to keeping families safe, aggressively addressing crime issues and improving the quality of life for all residents of Precinct One.
Spring 2020 Dates SUNDAY, MARCH 29 AT 7:15PM | UOS 15th Annual Men’s Mock Seder
The Chasidic master, Simcha Bunim of Przysucha, taught that each of us should have two pockets; when we are discouraged and depressed, we should reach into the right pocket for a note which says: “For my sake the world was created.” (Talmud, Sanhedrin 37a) But if we are too high and mighty, we should take a note from the left pocket which says: “I am but dust and ashes.” (Gen. 18:27) It’s all about knowing which one you need.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 13 | DEB NEUBEK Assistant Chief for Human Systems Engineering & Integration Division for NASA
“Will We Really Put Humans on Mars?”
Join us in the Greenfield Chapel, and in contemplating who we are. --- Rabbi Daniel Horwitz
DO YOU HAVE ROOM AT YOUR SEDER? Will you host a member of our congregation who has no family in town or is new to our community, or for a college student who cannot go home for the holiday? Please call Rabbi Strauss’s assistant Abby (713.666.1881 x311) or send her an email arotenberg@bethyeshurun.org
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS IN THE MESSAGE!
Contact: Ashley Mills at amills@bethyeshurun.org or 713.666.1881 for sizes & rates 6
Purim Carnival Sunday, March 8, 2020 11:00am - 2:00pm
RIDES & ACTIVITIES New Castle Deluxe, Wipeout, Trackless Train, Skee Ball, 4-in-1 Sports, Hungry Hippos, Volcano Island Rock Wall, Dual Zipline, Laser Tag, Bungee Trampoline, Wrecking Ball Carnival Ride, Dixie Twister Chair Swing, and more! ALL INCLUDED IN THE WRISTBAND FOR KIDS 5+ or 4-6 Tickets per activity/ride
Preschool Area ACTIVITIES Bike Track, Toddler Zone Bounce House, Search for Burried Treasure, Make your own Purim Mask, Scratch and Decorate Craft, Basketball Shoot, Face Paint ALL INCLUDED IN THE PRESCHOOL WRISTBAND or 2-4 Tickets per activity/ride
Crescent Circus returns! A show for all ages full of magic illusions and stunts! Come one, come all, join us at 11:45AM and 1:00PM for a FREE performance!
CARNIVAL FOOD & SNACKS Chips – 2 tickets Corn on the Cob – 2 tickets Sausage-on-a-stick – 4 tickets Hotdogs – 4 tickets Veggie Burgers – 6 tickets Hamburgers – 8 tickets Drinks – 2 tickets Dippin Dots – 4 tickets Doc Pop – 4 tickets Hamentaschen – 4 tickets
PRICES Unlimited Wristbands* Ages 5+: $25.00 Preschool: $8.00 10 pack of tickets: $10.00 *prices increase March 1st
Purchase your tickets today! BETHYESHURUN.ORG/FORM/PURIMCARNIVAL2020 7
THANK YOU TO THE MEMBERS OF THE RABBI’S CIRCLE Support for The Rabbi’s Circle enables us to provide innovative programs, including our Scholar-in-Residence, Rabbi Elie Spitz, and much-needed services for our Congregation.
2019-2020 Rabbi's Circle Members
Celebrates Jewish Families
Supports Social Action Projects
Anonymous Debbie & Jim Adler Susan & Michael Bono Rhona & Bruce Caress Barbara & Michael Gamson Robin & Bennett Greenspan Marilyn & Cary Hoffman Julie & Michael Kaplan Diane & Alan Levin Lee Levit Patti & Michael Morgan Paula & Irving Pozmantier Leslie & Russ Robinson Glen Rosenbaum Melanie & Gregg Rosenberg Claudia & Sergio Soroka Andrea & David Stein Bruce Stein Robin & Brad Stein Tracy & Gary Stein
Presents Cutting-Edge Scholars
Funds Young Adult Programming We invite you to make Congregation Beth Yeshurun a high priority in your philanthropic giving by participating in The Rabbi’s Circle. To learn more, please contact Rabbi Brian Strauss or Jennifer Sutton, Director of Development at 713-666-1881 or jsutton@bethyeshurun.org 8
Beth Yeshurun’s New Membership Portal We have transitioned to our new online member portal and database powered by ShulCloud. We are excited about the advantages that the easy-to-use ShulCloud will bring to both our congregants and to staff. Benefits include managing your own account online if you choose, connecting with other congregants through the online directory, and registering for events and programs.
What can I access... PUBLIC (without logging in)
MEMBERS (Logging in)
1. Welcome Brief overview of Beth Yeshurun and what Beth Yeshurun has to offer our community, Clergy, Staff, Leadership, The Mollie & Louis Kaplan Museum of Judaica, The Message, our locations 2. Our Community 100 Jewish Men, CBY Socials, Family Programming, Inclusion, Jewish Mindfulness, Sisterhood, Social Action, YES Group, Young Adults, Youth Groups 3. Learning Adult Education, Malev Religious School, The Beth Yeshurun Day School 4. Prayer Information about Daily Services, Lifecycle, Live Streaming 5. Membership Information about membership at Beth Yeshurun 6. Donate Gifts & Legacies 7. Other Calendar Events at Beth Yeshurun
All of the tabs without logging in, as well as: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Member exclusive Forms Directory My Account Contains your member information My Profile Update information about you My Billing View your transactions/submit a payment My Events Quick view of events registered for Manage Members Add/edit people in your household Manage Yahrzeits Add / edit yahrzeit to be reminded of the date
ACCESSING YOUR BETH YESHURUN MEMBER ACCOUNT FOR THE FIRST TIME 1. GO TO WWW.BETHYESHURUN.ORG Click on the grey box labeled “Login” in the upper right hand corner in the black bar. Click Forgot Password • Please enter the email address that you will use to log in to your account. Click “Email Password” • An email with instructions to login will be sent to you. We will send you a link you can use to access your account, where you will be able to set a new password. Note: If the email address you entered is different from what we currently have on file, you will receive an error message. Please contact us at 713.666.1881 or info@bethyeshurun.org to update your account. 2. SET PASSWORD – PASSWORDS ARE REQUIRED TO FINISH SETTING UP YOUR ACCOUNT • Passwords must be a minimum of 8 characters • You may choose to include a combination of upper/lowercase, numbers and special characters • Passwords are case sensitive Click ‘SET PASSWORD’ at bottom of screen 3. MY ACCOUNT PAGE Scroll down and click‘View & edit your profile’ 4. UPDATE YOUR INFORMATION ON EACH TAB You DO NOT need to re-enter your password; only if you wish to change it! It is essential that we have your most current email, phone numbers, and addresses on file. Updating as many fields as possible will ensure we have the most accurate information to better serve you. • What are Permissions? Administer Family: access to add, edit and delete members of their family /yahrzeits. Billing: access to transaction history, receive billing statements, and make payments to the account. Login: access to login to their account CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 9
New Membership Portal, CONT. Click Contact Info tab Update info Click Business tab Update info (optional) Click Other tab Note: Lifecycles are only visible to you/your family. Therefore, it is not necessary to check any of the boxes to hide them from public views. Tags/interests: Let us know which activities you are interested in! (This does not mean you are “joining” or “obligated” to an activitiy; it just lets us know what you are interested in.)
Fiddler: A Miracle of Miracles
Click ‘SAVE CHANGES TO PERSON’ at bottom of screen
AT THE EVELYN RUBENSTEIN JCC FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020 from 1:00-2:30pm
JOIN CBY SOCIALS AND RABBI STRAUSS FOR
Fiddler chronicles the life, themes, and origin story behind one of Broadway’s most beloved musicals, Fiddler on the Roof, and its creative roots in early 1960s New York, when “tradition” was on the wane as gender roles, sexuality, race relations and religion were evolving.
5. REVIEW/UPDATE YAHRZEIT DETAILS Click My Account (on the top navigation bar) Click Manage Yahrzeits then click Add Yahrzeit Complete the form and click SAVE NEW YAHRZEIT (To delete yahrzeits, click My Account then Manage Yahrzeits)
7. ACCESS YOUR ACCOUNT IN THE FUTURE Go to www.bethyeshurun.org---> login with your email and password
For the first time, intimate interviews with the show’s creators reveal how the tremendous success and worldwide impact of Fiddler and its subsequent film adaptation is most appropriately viewed through the lens of the social upheaval and change in mid-20th century America.
If you are unable to login to your account, contact the Synagogue office at 713.666.1881 or email info@bethyeshurun.org
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO RSVP CONTACT MINDI STERN AT 713.666.1881 OR MSTERN@BETHYESHURUN.ORG
6. SIGN OUT OF YOUR ACCOUNT Click ‘Welcome Your Name’ and ‘Sign Out’
THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED GENEROUS SUPPORT OF THE SYNAGOGUE With the introduction of our new membership portal and database there have been some changes in how donations are processed. Many have noticed the way in which their name is listed as a donor in the Bulletin, the online donation form, and a few other changes. We greatly appreciate your patience during this transition. Outlined below are the most up-to-date guidlines when making a donation at Beth Yeshurun. • To make a donation please visit our website at normal business hours to submit your form.
bethyeshurun.org/donations
or visit the Administrative office during
• A minimum donation of $18 per tribute is required to have your donation published in the Bulletin and/or have an acknowledgement letter sent to the honoree or a deceased person’s family member. Only one acknowledgement letter will be sent per donation. All addressee fields must be completed in order to send an acknowledgement letter. • The deadline for donations to be published in the Bulletin is the previous Friday at noon. • Donations are published upon submission and will not be “held” for future publication. • Personal messages are not published in the Bulletin or included in the acknowledgement letter. Tributes are listed as they are submitted and should include only one family. • Please complete all fields. If it’s incomplete or not legible, we are unable to process your donation efficiently. Donations with no specific fund indicated will be credited to the Synagogue General Fund. If you have any questions concerning these guidlines please contact Andy Burger at 713.666.1881 or aburger@bethyeshurun.org 10
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Leaving Fast; Leaving Slow: Explaining Matza - Judaism’s “Fast Food?” March 26, 2020 at 8:00am
Beth Yeshurun Sisterhood Presents
Guest Speaker: Rabbi Alex Israel
A Passover Workshop
What is the symbolism of Matza? Matza must be baked in less than 18 minutes. What is the symbolism of this “fast-food”? Why does the Exodus have to be so quick? We shall discuss what happens in the life of the nation, and in our personal lives, when we make rapid transitions. Are they beneficial or harmful? From Rav Tzadok of Lublin to Rav Kook, from the Exodus to the Ethiopian Aliyah, join our journey.
Tuesday, March 24th 11:00 am - 1:00 pm at the home of Ronna Selber
address provided upon registration
Join the Beth Yeshurun Sisterhood for a special Passover Workshop featuring a demonstration by Jenny Tavor Custom Catering! Please bring a favorite Passover dairy or parve dish to share and submit the recipe with your reservation so that we can put together a “digital recipe” cookbook to share with all participants.
Rabbi Alex Israel teaches Bible at Pardes and is the Director of the Community Education Program and the Summer Program. Alex was born and raised in London. He holds degrees from London School of Economics, the Institute of Education London and Bar-Ilan University. Alex studied at Yeshivat Har Etzion under Rav Aharon Lichtenstein and Rav Yehudah Amital, and gained Rabbinic ordination from the Israeli Rabbinate. Alex has taught for twenty years in many top Jerusalem Yeshivot and Midrashot. He is also a volunteer for Tzohar – a group that seeks to bridge the gaps between religious and secular communities In Israel. Alex lives with his wife and 4 children in Gush Etzion.
rsvp by thursday, march 19th
bethyeshurun.org/form/ sisterhoodpassoverworkshop
Alex recently published his first book – I Kings:Torn in Two (Maggid: 2014) – a sweeping and enlightening commentary on Sefer Melakhim.
Call the Best We’ll do the Rest! Unstop Drains Replace Sewer Lines Tank & Tankless Water Heaters Live Video Camera for Line Breaks Repair and Replace Faucets & Toilets
The Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies (www.pardes. org.il) is an open, inclusive, diverse and intellectually challenging Jewish learning community based in Jerusalem with programs worldwide. Pardes cultivates a life-long love of Jewish learning, the Jewish people and Israel. Pardes inspires engagement in Jewish life — as communal and spiritual leaders, educators and active participants.
Mention our ad for $15 off any service. Gary Bloch
FREE Estimates
MLP# 12248
bethyeshurun.org/event/rabbialexisrael
www.plumbcohouston.com 12
Before I Die Featuring:
GAIL RUBIN
Certified Thanatologist, The Doyenne of DeathÂŽ
Gail Rubin
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Presented by:
713-875-4811 Affiliated with Hardin Family Funeral Home
waldmanfuneralcare.com/before-i-die-houston
Your Gift Shop is stocked for all your Passover needs! The Beth Yeshurun Sisterhood Gift Shop hours: Sunday: 10:00am - 1:00pm Monday: Closed Tuesday-Thursday: 10:00am - 4:30pm Friday: 10:00am - 2:30pm Saturday: Closed
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Presents
Cantor Meir Finkelstein Wednesday, March 18 Lunch 11:30am Entertainment 12:00pm RSVP by March 11
With special guests: The BYDS Choir Thank you to our Gold Sponsor for March:
Preregister to be eligible for Door Prizes!
$8 before 3/11 | $12 after deadline or at the door Pay online: BETHYESHURUN.ORG/EVENT/YESMARCH2020 Or mail your check to: CBY, Jennifer Rosenzweig, 4525 Beechnut, Houston 77096 Questions? (713) 666-1881 ext. 312
MONDAY, MARCH 23RD 7:00pm Presented by Stephen Daniel Open to the congregation, RSVP Required BETHYESHURUN.ORG/EVENT/SECURITYTRAINING Stephen Daniel has worked for the Houston Police department (HPD) as a Senior Community Liaison since 2007. In 2011, Mr. Daniel began facilitating “Active Shooter Defense” training alongside a member of HPD’s elite SWAT team.
Friday, March 6th at 5:30pm
Wisdom of Torah
with Rabbi Brian Strauss Tuesday Mornings, 8:00am Together, over breakfast, we will explore the ancient wisdom of Torah and how it can be applied in today’s modern world. All are welcome!
bethyeshurun . org / form/kolrinah0320
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THE MOLLIE & LOUIS KAPLAN MUSEUM OF JUDAICA The next time you walk down that long corridor to the Rabbis’ offices, take a look at the art on the walls. All of this is a part of our Mollie and Louis Kaplan Museum of Judaica. Look to the left as you approach the offices and you’ll see several prints from paintings by Isidor Kaufmann. Kaufmann began, in the 1880's, to paint Jewish subjects in Vienna. By the early 1890's, he had committed himself to recreating on canvas the life of Jews in Eastern Europe. Traveling through small towns and making sketches on which he later based paintings, Kaufmann came to be recognized as the greatest Jewish genre painter of religious life in the shtetl. If not for his meticulous realistic style, we would lack an important portrait of a life that is part of our history.
PLAY BALL! Beth Yeshurun is fielding a Men’s softball team to participate in the synagogue league Spring 2020. All positions are available. Contact Paul Katz for more information, pkatz88@ comcast.net. Make sure to include the phone number and email address.
The Medallion Jewish Assisted Living Residence is located on the Seven Acres campus, providing a continuum of care that gives seniors the services they need while maintaining their dignity, quality of life and a sense of independence. We have 77 years of experience caring for seniors. Our staff, residents and families make The Medallion a special place to call home. Come join our family...
• Jewish cultural programs and holidays observed • Kosher dining with personalized meal planning • Access to on-site skilled nursing care/long term care services • Wellness Center and heated aqua therapy pool • A warm, friendly residence in an intimate setting • Full personal care services Facility ID # 102491
We invite you to visit us today. Contact Stephanie Barrocas at 713-778-5777 or sbarrocas@themedallion.org 6262 North Braeswood Blvd., Houston, TX 77074 www.themedallion.org
WE HONOR AND NURTURE, TOGETHER 15
“DIARY OF ANNE FRANK” AND DISCUSSION WITH CHAJA VERVEER Over 20 Beth Yeshurun 6th - 7th graders and their families attended “The Diary of Anne Frank” together on February 9th at Main Street Theater. Following a moving production, the audience heard from Holocaust survivor Chaja Verveer and her experience as a child in Holland. Many of the teens had never read or seen “The Diary of Anne Frank” before. While it was challenging for them to watch, they all walked away with a new understanding of the Holocaust and a commitment to preserving the history. It was a meaningful afternoon for all who attended.
713-771-8000
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The Three Cantors FEATURING
Cantor Meir Finkelstein Congregation Beth Yeshurun of Houston, Texas Cantor Natanel Hershtik The Hamptons Synagogue of New York
Cantor Marcus Feldman Sinai Temple of Los Angeles, California
The Wortham Center May 17, 2020
Cindy Weinstein Sharon Krost Chairs
Lorraine Horwitz Alice Small Bruce Stein Judy Yambra Founding Chairs
WWW.BETHYESHURUN.ORG JENNIFER SUTTON, JSUTTON@BETHYESHURUN.ORG 713-666-1881 17
Family Album
ANNIVERSARIES 3/1 5 Karen Dow & Brian Kelly 3/2 3/3 3/4 3/5 3/6 3/7 3/10 3/11 3/12 3/13 3/14 3/15 3/16 3/17 3/18
33 23 24 45 48 7 8 46 41 14 32 32 31 26 32 10 4 21 49 21 11 11 38 5 11 19 8 13 58 20 36 25 14 20 31 14 14 16 27 26 28 44 16 33 23 35 40 59 18 6 35 35 48 47 8
3/19 3/20 3/21 3/22 3/23 3/24 3/25 3/26 3/27 3/28
Mendy & David Mitrani Melissa & Scott Selzer Melissa & Bradley Kalmans Marcia & David Solomon Helene & Dror Zadok Courtney Zubowski-Haas & Eric Haas Allison & Eric Danziger Amy & Aron Grenader Marcia & Randall Davidoff Molly & Bruce Frankel Pepper & Steven Lieberman Carin & Todd Barth Gloria & Gary Lepow Sarah & Andrew Taibel Hallie & Barry Zietz Deborah & Benjamin Haseltine Patricia & Mark Moussazadeh Elise & Mark Newman Ellen & Daniel Trachtenberg Stephanie & Isaac Barrocas Stephanie & Joshua Cohen Melanie & Gregg Rosenberg Deeanne & Richard Rosenberg Stacy & Zachary Samet Cara & Brian Striegold Haley & Alan Finkelman Valeriya & Brian Grabarnik Brooke & Michael Jones Clara & Eitan Kuperman Jessica & Garth Beinart Helen & Cal Cohn Gina & Joshua Roberts Lindsey & David Sheinbein Lisa & Brian Silver Shelley & Steven Davidoff Anna-Marie & Bruce Levy Mindy & Scott Michelman Edit & Sean Churchill Maria & Ivan Gomez Leslie & Aaron Roffwarg Fanny & Mitchell Frederick Frances & Robert Grossman Emily & Jonathan Lepow Paula & David Ginsburg Rachel & Scott Jacobson Evelyn & Felix Eyzaguirre Anna-Lee & Duane Kamins Josephine & Seymour Sugar Rachel & Andrew Toubin Michelle & Jonathan Zadok Helene & Darrell Lubel Lea Weingarten Fastow & Andrew Fastow Raquel & Roberto Fleischer Frances & Julian Koch Maria & Alejandro Messing
3/29 3/30
47 19 44 42 4 20 27 27 25 43 38 37 33 10 34 62 17 18 23 63 35 46 14 41 34 48 48 54 21 10 61 49 22 11 50 23 11 17 40 12 6
Joan & Geoffrey Schnider Carrie & Mark Wolf Sharron & Philip Zeisman Sharon & Michael Krost Rachael & Daniel MacLeod Leslie & Paul Strug Fonda & Wayne Arzt Kate Birenbaum & Michael Grosser Susan & Paul Danziger Dianna & Allan Margolin Judith & Mark Mucasey Diane & Murray Schoendorf Susan & Steve Berdinis Yosely & David Tanenbaum Silvia & Todd Riff Frieda & Melvin Dow Adrienne & Asaf Glaich Rachel & Joshua Jacobs Sondra & Jody Ludwick Carol & Larry Fradkin Michele & Steven Strauss Kay & Alvin Zeisman Libi & Neville Fleishman Rochelle & Lee Wunsch Rochelle & Michael Alexander Cheryl & Stephen Golub Susan & Leonard Kammerman Lois & Lary Kupor Linda & Scott Newar Obeth & Ben Avner Roxanne & Samuel Gold Norma & Jonathan Hyman Heather & Ari Purcell Amalia & Brian Stanton Gail & Gary Swartz Blythe & Nir Grossman Cindy & Richard Meador Jamie & Bryan Garrett Selma & Jorge Guttin Kari & Elias Saratovsky Jennifer & David Stockel
TheCONDOLENCES congregation extends its sincerest condolences to the families of:
Dr. Leon Bloom, Martin “Marty” Brian Levinson, Sheila Prenowitz, Leslie Michael Ribnik, and Tibor Weitz
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May their memories be for a blessing. A Notice About Bereavement Communications Bereavement notices for our synagogue family are distributed with the permission of the deceased’s family, and the timing of these notices is dictated by the family’s request. Of course, each family grieves in its own way, and we are grateful for our congregation’s patience and understanding with different families’ preferences about how their loss is publicized.
B’nai Mitzvah
Siena Lauren Bush (March 6-7) is the daughter of Joanne and Grayson Bush; sister of Sophia; granddaughter of Abby and Garrett Hulett; Pam and Bruce Schleifman; the late Louise Bush; and Ronald Bush. Siena is a 7th grader at Lanier Middle School, where she plays the cello in the school orchestra and is a member of the swim team. For her Mitzvah project, Siena decorated Shabbat boxes for patients at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Siena will donate a portion of her monetary gifts to Children’s Music Fund, which provides music therapy programs and instruments to children affected by serious conditions or life-threatening illnesses to improve their quality of life. Gabriel Brandon Eisenberg (March 6-7) is the son of Michelle Eisenberg and Michael & Allison Eisenberg; brother of Jayden and William; Grandson of Joyce and Martin Oppenheimer, Zipora Eisenberg and Larry Eisenberg, of blessed memory; Great grandson of Doris Oppenheimer. Gabriel attended Beth Yeshurun Day School and now attends Emery/Weiner School where he participates on the tennis team. For his Mitzvah project he volunteered with the rescue organization Animal Justice League assisting with cat adoptions. Gabriel will participate in the Rabbi’s 10% plan and will donate part of his monetary gifts to the Animal Justice League. Samuel Edward Sondock (March 1314) is the son of Jennifer and Mark Sondock;brother of Lizzie; grandson of Gary Emrick, Linden & Roger Sofer, and Annette & Larry Sondock. Sam attended Beth Yeshurun Day School. Sam is now a sixth grader at The Briarwood School. For his mitzvah project he is donating his time and collecting supplies for Houston Pets Alive. Sam will be participating in the Rabbi’s 10% plan by donating a portion of his monetary gifts to the Jewish Family Service of Houston. Harrison Scott Zimmermann (March 13-14) is the son of Karen and Greg Zimmermann; brother of Meaghan and Zachary; grandson of Mary & Les Garb, Jocelyn & Mark Roth and Sharon Henneke. Harrison attended Beth Yeshurun Day School. Harrison is now a sixth grader at Emery. For his mitzvah project he is donating his time and collecting supplies for Houston Pets Alive. He will be participating in the Rabbi’s 10% plan by donating a portion of his monetary gifts to various Animal Rescue Groups and Shelters.
Katie Robinson (March 20-21) is the daughter of Stacy and Andy Robinson; sister of Abby Robinson; granddaughter of Ellen and Gary Robinson and Joyce and Robbie Robertson of Atlanta, Georgia. Katie is a seventh grader at Trafton Academy where she cheers and plays clarinet. Outside of school, Katie loves performing in musical theater at the ERJCC. For the past six years, Katie has participated in a variety of shows with main roles in Pippin, Seussical Jr., Camp Rock, and Ducktails and Bobbysox. For her mitzvah project, Katie volunteered regularly at the Houston Food Bank and raised donations for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Katie personally donated to St. Jude for Hanukkah for the past two years and wants to thank her family and friends who joined her in this wonderful tradition. Katie will participate in the Rabbi’s 10% plan by donating a portion of her gifts to charity. Blake Elliott Cohen (March 27-28) is the son of Tamara and Matthew Cohen and the brother of Drew Cohen. He is the grandson of Margie Cohen and Sue and Kenneth Reichek and great-grandson of Anne and Isadore Reichek and Fran Spector and the late Myer Spector. Blake attends Emery Weiner School where he enjoys baseball, soccer, choir and spikeball. For his mitzvah project, Blake and his partner Jake Melamed are volunteering with Run for the Rose which will take place the same weekend as their Bar Mitzvah. Blake will also take place in the Rabbis Ten Percent Plan for charitable giving. Blake looks forward to sharing this special occasion with his friend and Bar Mitzvah partner Jake. Jake Harrison Melamed (March 27-28) is the son of Robin and Evan Melamed; brother of Max Melamed; grandson of Jane Gold, Paul and Suzanne Gold, and Leon and Maureen Melamed. Jake is a seventh grader at Trafton Academy, and enjoys playing basketball and baseball. For his mitzvah project, he volunteered with Run for the Rose, which is an organization that raises money to help fight brain cancer. He will also be donating a portion of his monetary gifts to The Innocence Project, which is an organization that works to exonerate people who have been wrongly convicted.
Please contact Sara Ellen Kaiser at 713.255.8005 or skaiser@bethyeshurun.org, for your submission deadline to list your Bar/Bat Mitzvah student’s parents, siblings, grandparents, school, and Mitzvah Projects. 19
Contact Us
SYNAGOGUE OFFICE | 713.666.1881 4525 Beechnut St | Houston, TX 77096-1801 CLERGY Rabbi Brian Strauss bstrauss@bethyeshurun.org Assistant: Abby Rotenberg arotenberg@bethyeshurun.org | 713.255.8011 Rabbi Steven Morgen smorgen@bethyeshurun.org Rabbi Sarah Fort sfort@bethyeshurun.org Assistant: Lisa Unsell lunsell@bethyeshurun.org | 713.255.8017 Rabbi David Rosen, drosen@bethyeshurun.org Rabbi Jack Segal rabsegal@aol.com Rabbi Danny Horwitz rabbidanny@aol.com Cantor Meir Finkelstein mfinkelstein@bethyeshurun.org Asst. & B’nai Mitzvah Coordinator: Sara Ellen Kaiser skaiser@bethyeshurun.org | 713.255.8005 SYNAGOGUE Jerrad Bloome, President bethyeshurun.org
Time sensitive material - please deliver promptly!
Second Night Seder Thursday, April 9, 2020 bethyeshurun.org/passover
Passover Workshop wednesday, march 18th
president@bethyeshurun.org
Andy Burger, Executive Director
7:00-9:00pm in Stein Hall
Jennifer Rosenzweig, Program Director
Join Rabbi Brian Strauss, Rabbi Steven Morgen, Rabbi Sarah Fort, and Cantor Meir Finkelstein for...
Mindi Stern, Director of Member Relations
“OY GeFaLT”
aburger@bethyeshurun.org
jrosenzweig@bethyeshurun.org mstern@bethyeshurun.org
Jennifer-Joy Sutton, Director of Development
Official Yontiff Gefilte Fish Lovers’ Taste-Test
Ashley Mills, Marketing & Communications Manager
In addition to gefilte fish taste-testing join us for breakout sessions led by clergy including:
jsutton@bethyeshurun.org amills@bethyeshurun.org
What Does Modern Day Slavery Have to do with Our Own Seders? with Rabbi Brian Strauss Silly Songs and Poems for the Passover Seder with Rabbi Steven Morgen Drinking for Redemption: The Cup of Elijah with Rabbi Sarah Fort Ancient Texts & Contemporary Melodies with Cantor Meir Finkelstein
Arthur Miller, Cemetery
amiller@bethyeshurun.org
| 713.255.8076
WILLIAM S. MALEV RELIGIOUS SCHOOLS Sheryl Eskowitz, Education Director
seskowitz@bethyeshurun.org
| 713.255.8040
BETH YESHURUN DAY SCHOOL School Office 713.666.1884, 713.255.8045 Jennifer LeVine, Head of School: jlevine@byds.org Read The Message online at bethyeshurun.org April deadline: March 6th to Ashley Mills
bethyeshurun.org/event/passoverworkshop2020
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