The Message
Congregation Beth Yeshurun November 2018
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From the Cantor
Cantor Meir Finkelstein
1914, Samuel — who was making music in Yiddish theaters and other popular venues — entered into an arranged marriage with Bella Horowitz, from the family that owned Horowitz-Margareten, renowned makers of matzah and Passover products.
There are many prayers we sing at services, whose tunes are all so familiar, and that we happily pass down from one generation to the next. One example is “Shalom Aleichem” — it isn’t hard to imagine Jewish families around the world simultaneously welcoming Shabbat with the familiar strains of this cherished liturgical melody. Another is the Chanukah favorite, “I Have a Little Dreidel” — chances are, most everyone reading this can sing the chorus. What isn’t widely known, however, is that “I Have a Little Dreidel” and the melody most Ashkenazi Jews worldwide use for “Shalom Aleichem” were written in the early 20th century by two brothers from New York City. Samuel E. Goldfarb penned “I Have a Little Dreidel” (with Samuel S. Grossman), while his older brother, Israel Goldfarb, composed “Shalom Aleichem.”
While Samuel started out playing piano in theaters, Israel — a graduate of the Institute of Musical Art (now the Juilliard School), the Jewish Theological Seminary and Columbia University — rose to fame as a noted cantor, and later became the long-serving rabbi at the venerable Kane Street Synagogue in Brooklyn. He wrote his melody to “Shalom Aleichem” in 1918. Its popularity spread throughout the world, so much so, that Israel said that “many came to believe this music was handed down from Mount Sinai by Moses.” During the 1920s, Samuel Goldfarb wrote “I Have a Little Dreidel.” It took some time to catch on, and did not become popular until the early 1950s, when Chanukah was becoming more commercially parallel to Christmas.
The Goldfarb brothers grew up on the Lower East Side of New York in a family of 11 children that emigrated from Galicia, Poland. Samuel was born in 1891, and learned how to read and play music from Israel, who was 12 years his senior. In
I hope you enjoy these little historical gems, and look forward to sharing more interesting facts about our synagogue music and the various composers who set our prayers to music. Until next time, Shabbat Shalom to all my Beth Yeshurun family! 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. LIV, No. 1
November 2018│Cheshvan-Kislev 5779
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 th-e synagogue will find a responsive and empathetic ear by arranging a visit with Mindi Stern, our Director of Member Relations, (713.666.1881).
The Message of Congregation Beth Yeshurun (USPS 968-
500) is published monthly August-July by Congregation Beth Yeshurun, 4525 Beechnut, Houston, Harris County, TX 770961801. Periodical Postage Paid at Houston, Texas.
Postmaster send address changes to Congregation Beth Yeshurun │4525 Beechnut│Houston, TX 77096-1801.
Front Cover Photos taken from our Facebook page from
September and October 2018. Want to see your picture on the cover? Make sure to tag Beth Yeshurun when posting!
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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.“
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Worship Services
It’s a Mitzvah
FRIDAY EVENINGS November 2, 2018 Parashat Hayyei Sarah Shabbat Mevarekhim Hahodesh | CL 6:16pm 5:30 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel 6:00 PM - Shabbat Renewal Service November 9, 2018 Parashat Tol’dot | CL 5:11pm 5:00 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel 6:00 PM - Shabbat Renewal Service November 16, 2018 Parashat Va-Yetzei | CL 5:07pm 5:00 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel 6:00 PM - Shabbat Renewal Service November 23, 2018 Parashat Va-Yishlah | CL 5:05pm 5:00 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel 6:00 PM - Shabbat Renewal Service November 30, 2018 Parashat Va-Yeishev | CL 5:04pm 5:00 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel 6:00 PM - Shabbat Renewal Service 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 SATURDAY EVENING SERVICES November 3, 2018 6:00 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel November 10, 2018 5:00 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel November 17, 2018 5:00 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel November 24, 2018 5:00 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel WEEKDAY CHAPEL SERVICES Week of 10/28 Mornings Sun 8:00am, Mon-Fri 7:00am; Afternoon/Evenings Sun-Thu 5:30pm Week of 11/04 Mornings Sun 8:00am, Mon-Wed 7:00am, Thu-Fri 6:45am; Afternoon/Evenings SunThu 5:00pm Week of 11/11 Mornings Sun 8:00am, Mon-Fri 7:00am; Afternoon/Evenings Sun-Thu 5:00pm Week of 11/18 Mornings Sun 8:00am, Mon-Wed 7:00am, Thu 8:00am, Fri 7:00am; Afternoon/ Evenings Sun-Thu 5:00pm Week of 11/25 Mornings Sun 8:00am, Mon-Fri 7:00am; Afternoon/Evenings Sun-Thu 5:30pm
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. In memory of Marvin Gumbiner Sponsored by Susan Gumbiner Weisselberg & Family In memory of Dorothy Malowitz Karp Sponsored by Marcy Malowitz In memory of Jack & Rhea Lane Sponsored by Helane W. & David L. Lane and Family In memory of Sally Leva Sponsored by Marcie & David Rosen & Family In memory of Ruth Rappaport Sponsored by Norman H. Rappaport In memory of Arnold Skolnik Sponsored by Leenie & Burt Skolnik
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. Our Administrative Offices will be closed the following days: 11/22-23 - Thanksgiving
In need of Support? 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. 4
This page sponsored by HOUSTON JEWISH FUNERALS Interested in sponsoring a page? Contact amills@bethyeshurun.org
CONGREGATION BETH YESHURUN
Warmly Welcomes You!
Come Discover How Congregation Beth Yeshurun: Ignites your spirituality through meaningful services and celebrations Expands your insights and perspectives of Jewish life and thought Connects and creates friendships with our expansive multi-generational community
Special One Year Introductory Memberships Contact Mindi Stern for details at 713.666.1881 or mstern@bethyeshurun.org
weekly torah study
The 2018-2019 Jewish Learning Project!
11:45am Shabbat Mornings
at Beth Yeshurun Join our Weekly Torah discussions led by Rabbi Danny Horwitz each Shabbat to discern the simple and complex, the explicit and implicit of Torah Wisdom as it applies to our daily life.
The Jewish Learning Project (JLP) is Congregation Beth Yeshurun’s Adult Learning Program. Our JLP sessions offer a variety of spiritual, intellectual, and stimulating topics for you to choose from. Sessions are held mostly on Sunday mornings and are open to the public and free* of charge.
Your Gift Shop is stocked for all your Chanukah needs! Toys, Menorahs, Dreidels, Decorations, Tabletop, Candles
New this year! “Siddur GPS” with Rabbi Morgen; “Elder Care and Beyond - A Special Lecture Series” sponsored by Houston Jewish Funerals; “Chai Mitzvah” a Mussar based group with Rabbi Strauss; “Jewish Mindfulness Foundations” with Rabbi Sholklapper; Several online learning opportunities; and so much more!
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
To see the full listing visit our website at
bethyeshurun.org/learn/adult-learning
*Some classes may have materials fees. 5
C E L E B R AT I N G 7 0 Y E A R S O F F R I E N D S H I P
Congregation Beth Yeshurun &
Now that the holidays are over I wanted to take a moment to reach out to you about something that holds a special place in my heart and inspires me. As you know, I care a lot about Israel and am very involved with AIPAC, which I believe is still the most important way we have to protect the U.S.-Israel relationship. On Rosh Hashanah you heard Rhoda and Steve Saka, Cara Rosenthal, and Daniel Johary discuss the importance of attending the AIPAC Policy Conference in Washington, D.C. from March 24-26, 2019.
AIPAC SOUTHWEST SYNAGOGUE INITIATIVE present
A VIEW FROM THE PALESTINIAN STREET FEATURING
KHALED ABU TOAMEH PALESTINIAN AFFAIRS CORRESPONDENT, THE JERUSALEM POST
My hope is that you will join me along with the entire Beth Yeshurun Clergy team at the AIPAC Policy Conference. At the conference, we as a congregation can make a difference, have our voices heard and take part in strengthening the U.S.-Israel relationship. Being a part of more than 18,000 people from across the country as we learn from experts in the field, listen to political minds from both sides of the aisle and lobby our elected officials is something that truly speaks to me and I know it will do the same for you.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2018 Registration 6:00 PM • Program 6:30 PM
There are so many reasons to attend Policy Conference given both Israel's critical situation and the fact that I believe AIPAC itself needs to hear our Beth Yeshurun voice. I am hoping for our largest contingent ever.
This event is off-the-record and closed to the press.
CONGREGATION BETH YESHURUN 4525 BEECHNUT STREET • HOUSTON
FOR ONLINE RESERVATIONS VISIT www.aipac.org/BethYeshurun You may also register by emailing Hayley Rosenberg at hrosenberg@aipac.org or calling 832-380-7710.
Special thanks to Congregation Beth Yeshurun AIPAC Policy Conference Ambassadors: Daniel Johary • Cara Rosenthal • Rhoda Saka
A FRESH VIEW OF CBY ART! The Building Arts Committee is pleased to announce a new home for one of our pieces of original art a bronze sculpture entitled Family, envisioned and created by Richard (Dick) Emery, z’l. This piece was commissioned in 1978 by The Beth Yeshurun Men’s Club to honor its Man of the Year award recipients. The sculpture was installed in the Beechnut lobby for many years. Because of damage due to Hurricane Harvey, a new pedestal was created to enhance this work of art. It is now on display in the Fein Atrium at the entrance to the Pulaski-Rauch Auditorium. Please take a fresh look at it the next time you’re in the synagogue.
AIPAC has arranged a discount code for CBY members, CBY50, to register for the conference to take $150 off the total price ($449 for non-club, $399 for club). Visit policyconference.org to register and enter promotional code CBY50. Don't hesitate to ask if you have any further questions, and feel free to extend the invitation to other members. For a preview of how incredible Policy Conference can be, Congregation Beth Yeshurun is hosting Khaled Abu Toameh on November 27th at 6:30pm. Toameh is a popular Arab Israeli journalist who will present, “A View from the Palestinian Street.” Please join us for this fascinating evening by registering at aipac.org/ bethyeshurun. I look forward to seeing you there. L’Shalom, Rabbi Brian Strauss 6
BYachad Scavenger Hunt BYachad (6th-8th grade) had a great opening program on Sunday, October 14 at the Synagogue Scavenger Hunt! Teens were split in to groups and raced to answer questions located around the synagogue building. They discovered many interesting pieces in the Kaplan Museum, studied the art in the hallways, learned CBY history, and tested their Judaic knowledge. See everyone on November 4th for the next event at Top Golf! For more info on youth programming, contact Sarah Goldberg at sgoldberg@bethyeshurun.org or 713-255-8031.
Greatest Showman Havdallah All 3rd-5th graders connected to Beth Yeshurun, including Beth Yeshurun Religious School and Beth Yeshurun Day School, had a fantastic time at the Greatest Showman Havdallah on Saturday, October 13! Planned by Carly Abramson, Institute for Southern Jewish Life Education Fellow, and Sarah Goldberg, Beth Yeshurun Youth Programming Coordinator, participants had a great time playing different carnival themed games. After getting to know each other better, the program then focused on team building, creativity, communication, and having lots of Shabbat friendly fun! After a circus performance which showcased everyone’s unique skills, families were invited back to participate in Havdallah. Check out our group on this month’s cover of The Message! We can’t wait for the next Bonim program on Saturday, March 30. For more info on youth programs, contact Sarah at sgoldberg@bethyeshurun.org or 713-2558031.
Grandmas’ Boyfriends Barbershop Quartet RSVP REQUIRED BY: NOVEMBER 7, 2018 Lunch at 11:30 AM Program & Lunch $8 if prepaid by 11/7/18 $12 after 11/7/18 Please write “YES” on your check and mail to: Riana Sherman 4525 Beechnut Houston, TX 77096 Questions? (713) 666-1881 ext. 312
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Religious School Kindergarten Consecration Held Kindergarten Consecration in the Religious School was held on September 30 with the Kindergarten families and the entire Religious School in attendance. After the students sang several songs and were blessed by Rabbi Strauss, Rabbi Morgen led the kindergarten parents in a parents’ prayer. During the ceremony, each student was presented with a small Torah and Consecration certificate to mark the beginning of their formal Jewish education. They also received a few pieces of candy so that they will associate the Torah with sweetness. After a benediction was given by Rabbi Fort, the Kindergarten families were invited to a reception. The program was coordinated by Music teacher, Marcia Sterling, and Kindergarten teachers, Chaya Lazenga and Mamie Marx.
START learning HERE.
Come see why our families choose to "start here."
Accepting applications for the 2019-2020 School Year 15 months
-
5th grade | www.byds.org | admissions@byds.org
book your tour 713.666.1884
11/4 Youth Event - BYachad 11/6 Sisterhood Torah Fund 11/9 Teacher’s Shabbat 11/10 Siddur GPS Pre-Service Sit with Rabbi Sholklapper MyShabbat 11/11 Youth - Rosh Hodesh Program Friendship Circle Walk 11/12 Prep for Chanukah with Rabbi Sholklapper 11/14 100 Jewish Men YES Group Chai Mitzvah 11/15 Gathering Place 11/16 Rabbi Strauss Installation Weekend Scholar-in-Residence: Rabbi Artson 11/17 Scholar-in-Residence: Rabbi Artson 11/18 No Religious School/Sulam 11/19 Prep for Chanukah with Rabbi Sholklapper 11/22 Administrative Offices Closed 11/23 Administrative Offices Closed 11/24 MyShabbat 11/25 No Religious School/Sulam or JLP 11/27 AIPAC/CBY Event 11/28 Sisterhood Supports the Girls, Part II 11/29 Interfaith Series, Part I 11/30 Special Shabbat Speakers: Hand in Hand Family Friday Night Every Tuesday: Wisdom of Torah with Rabbi Strauss at 8am Every Wednesday: Meditation & Israeli Dancing
kindergarten students pictured (left to right):
front row: Madeline Taibel, Zachary Hill, Sophie Peskin,
Lilah Cohen, Benjamin Rosenfeld, Penelope Staller, Joshua Bershad, Ariana Staller, Owen Samet, Madison Wade, Ellie Roth, Wright Meador, Alex Leibman; back row: Elon Blotcky, Corey Burck, Ethan Kaufman, Ashton Blotcky, Lexi Cohen, Ty Hernandez, Devon Dobbs, Walker Dillon, Ava Olitzki, Max Bender, Savannah Beinart, and Benson Mintz. Not pictured is Emma Churchill.
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COUNT ME IN IS BACK FOR THE 2018 HANUKAH SEASON The first night of Hanukkah this year is Sunday, December 2nd. Count Me In is excited to be back and making Hanukkah brighter for others for the 14th year. Count Me In, Inc. is a non-profit 501C3 corporation, which began as a High School community service project by two local Jewish teens, Eric Berdinis and Ben Rice and their families when the boys started 9th grade. Their mission was to collect and distribute 8 NEW, UNUSED Hanukkah gifts to children in the community ages birth-18 years old whose families are experiencing financial difficulties. A major component of the program is that it is anonymous and allows the recipient parents to provide the Hanukkah gifts directly to their children. 9 years ago, Count Me In began a very exciting partnership with Lonestar Region BBYO and has since partnered with multiple organizations and congregations around the Houston area. Count Me In is open to any volunteers looking to make a difference, and teen volunteers are strongly needed and encouraged. Last year, 2017, due to the generosity of the Houston Community, Count Me In provided 8 new gifts to over 400 children. Count Me In saw an increase in participation last year due to Hurricane Harvey, and with the Jewish community still recovering, we anticipate need to be significant again this year. Count Me In bags and literature will be available throughout the community, at local synagogues and schools. Congregations Beth Yeshurun, Beth Israel, Emanu El, Shma Koleinu, Houston Congregation For Reform Judaism, and Congregation Beth El are all participating and will have bags available at their locations to pick-up and shop for Hanukkah. More partners are anticipated to sign on as bag drop off points. Please check your temple and school bulletins for more information Bags may also be picked up and dropped off at the Merfish Teen Center on 9000 S Rice Blvd. Completed bags can be dropped off at their pick-up location or the Merfish by November 11th. For more information about Count Me In or to make a financial donation visit www.countmeininc.org as well as the Count Me In Facebook page to learn more and find out about volunteer opportunities. 9
We are so grateful to each and every supporter of our High Holy Day Appeal! Thank you for all that you do to ensure that Beth Yeshurun continues to provide its Jewish programs, classes and services.
We could not do this without you!
Lisa & David Aaronson Myrna Aber Lynn & Philip Abrams Riva & Grigory Adamovsky Deborah & Jim Adler Rochelle & Michael Alexander Ruth & Jack Alpert Jeffrey & Cindy Anapolsky Adriana & Brian Arias Roberta & Robert Arkus Dorita & Hertzel Aron Fonda & WayneArzt Linda & Shimon Atzil Davida Avery Barbara & Jonathan Baliff Margot & Michael Barnard Carin & Todd Barth Rochelle Batagower Elissa & Joshua Bauer Heidi& Robert Bazarsky Stacie & William Beaujon Jannette & Ben David Lisa & Joel Bender David Bent Madelyn & Edward Bernstein Marsha Bernstein Simone & Matthew Berry Elizabeth & Edward Berzin Vicki & Robert Birenbaum Daniel Bissonnet Melanie & Greg Blashki Emily & Stephen Blechman Wendy & Ira Bleiweiss Mona & Kenneth Bloom Sara & Jerrad Bloome Susan & Michael Bloome Jerry Blum Rita Blumenfeld
Jennifer & Emanuel Bodner Beverly Borden Amy Bossin Nick Bouza Sarah & Denis Braham Melissa & Andrew Brams Linda Brandt Taryn & Dan Braun Marian & Gabriel Braun Jacqueline & Jeremy Breed Helen Brounes Barbara & Ronald Brounes Toby & Gregg Brown Terry & Norman Buchalter Karen & Frederick Buckwold Linda & Ralph Burdett Linda & Andy Burger Valerie & Darryl Burman Sarah Camhi Rina & Elias Camhi Pamela & Byron Capito Rhona & Bruce Caress Faye & Jason Casell Meyer Chaskin Michele Chimene Rhoda & Allen Clamen Jessica & Bruce Coane Jo & Burton Cohen Nedra & Edward Cohen Wendy & Howard Cohen Sara & Leslie Cohen Tamara & Matthew Cohen Angela & Ofir Cohen Charles Cohen Shirley & Alan Cohn Barbara & Dell Coleman Jennifer & Gregg Costa Deborah & Marvin Crane Adele & Steven Croft
Allison & Eric Danziger Susan & Paul Danziger Joyce & Arthur Dauber Sylvia & Charles Dauber Robin & Jordan Davis Linda & Fernando Fernandez de Cordoba Carina & Bryan Deaktor Jennifer & Allen Deutsch Talia Diamond Robin & Lu Dorfman Greta & Kyle Drennan Beth & Clayton Dreyer Sherry & Lenny Dubin Ruth & Raymond Eagle Harriet & Arnold Eisenstein Julie & David Edelstein Naomi & Eyal Enav Linda & Daniel Epner Elaine Epstein Betty & Jay Epstein Sheryl Eskowitz Sara & Stewart Esquenazi Trudi & Max Esses Kelli Cohen & Martin Fein Edward Fein Judy & Michael Feinstein Lorri & Jon Feiwell Hayley & Marc Feldman Marjorie & Clive Fields Sandra & Harold Fields Janice & Larry Finder Yarden & Robert Finder Michelle & Jeremy Fingeret Relda Finger-Hoffer Karen & Steve Finkelman Monica & Cantor Meir Finkelstein Rabbis Sarah Fort & Ariel Sholklapper
* High Holy Day Appeal Contributors as of October 1, 2018 10
We are so grateful to each and every supporter of our High Holy Day Appeal! Thank you for all that you do to ensure that Beth Yeshurun continues to provide its Jewish programs, classes and services.
We could not do this without you!
Andrea & Steven Fradkin Carlos Fraifeld Rodi & Robert Franco Shari & Scott Frankel Ricki & Milton Frankfort Linda & Gordon Franklin Sheila Franklin Sylvia Freedman Martha & Donald Freedman Karen & Edwin Freedman Linda & Michael Friedberg Frances Dow Friedman Melissa & Michael Friedman Anissa & Reid Friedman Toni & Paul Friedman Charlett & Marshall Frumin Diane Garber Jamie & Bryan Garrett Janice & David Gerber Ronit & Arje Gerecht Rae & Sheldon Gerson Jaffray & Chris Getz Annette & Mark Goldberg Lynn & William Goldberg Zeev Goldberg Rysse & Brian Goldfarb Barbara Goldfield James Goldman Silvia & Mike Goldstein Barbara Golub Jeryl & Jeffrey Golub Sharon & Kenneth Goodgame Sue & John Goott Everett Gorel Debbie & Mark Gottesman Michele & Marvin Granit Teri & Harry Greenblatt Robin & Bennett Greenspan
Shelly & Mark Grenader Nancy & Melvin Gross Blythe & Nir Grossman Manizeh & Nelson Gruber Selma & Jorge Guttin Courtney Zubowski & Eric Haas Harriet & Taghi Hajizade Rebeca & Leon Halfon Celine & Gary Hanson Michael Hartman Terry Hausner Celine & David Hecht Phyllis Herdliska Gayle & Fred Hersch Linda & Sanford Herskovitz Lori & Ben Herzog Leticia & Harry Himmelstein Susan & Alan Hirshman Minna & Julius Hochstein Gayle & Scott Hoffer Marilyn & Cary Hoffman Hannah & Michael Hofrichter Barbara Horwitz Tobi & Rabbi Danny Horwitz Lorraine & Buddy Horwitz Lillie & Ben Hurwitz Norma & Jonathan Hyman Sue & Stuart Jacobson Dorothy & Robert Jenkins Miriam Joachim Sharon & Arnold Kagan Hydee & Ryan Kagan Sara & Hugh Kaiser Doris & Bennett Kalmans Melissa & Bradley Kalmans Rosalind & Melvin Kalmans Phyllis & Barry Kalmin Amy & Murray Kalmin
Jill & Neal Kaminsky Jan & Robert Kaminsky Sharon & Richard Kammerman Linda & Curtis Kantor Cindy Kaplan Elizabeth & Frank Karkowsky Geraldine Karkowsky Lauren & Ronald Karkowsky Linda Kashar Mireille & Harvey Katz Shirley Katz Lesley & Jeffrey Katz Joan & Louis Katz Leah & Paul Katz Harriet & Michael Katzeff Bernice Kaufman Eileen & Aaron Keiter Jean & Micah Kessler Jo & Steve King Eileen & Edward Kisluk Cathy & David Knobler Tillie Koch Judith & Robert Komorn Luisa Kopinsky Joseph Kornfeld Joanna Kornfeld Barbara & Geoffrey Koslov Marjorie & Jerome Kosoy Jeanie & Lawrence Krim Sari & Chris Kronzer Sharon & Michael Krost Mardi & Mark Kunik Danielle & Danny Kuperman Robert Kushner Trudy Kwartler Donna & Robert Lane Arlene & Gary Lassin Eileen & Steven Lee
* High Holy Day Appeal Contributors as of October 1, 2018 11
We are so grateful to each and every supporter of our High Holy Day Appeal! Thank you for all that you do to ensure that Beth Yeshurun continues to provide its Jewish programs, classes and services.
We could not do this without you! .
Beth & Jeff Lefkowitz Eleonora & Bryan Leibman Allison & Neville Leibman Richard Leibman Diane & Alan Levin Leorah & Jack Levin Sheryl Levin Rebecca Levine Martine Levine Jessica & Joel Levine Erica & Benjy Levit Lynn Levit Anna-Marie & Bruce Levy Malka & Bradley Levy Syma & Darryl Levy Zahava & Joshua Levy Sherry & Ken Levy Diane & Mitchel Levy Noreen Lewitton Libby Lieberman Esther & Naman Lipinsky Cheryl & James Lipshutz Marilyn & Herman Litt Hannah & David Loev Bernice & Jordan Loftus Rochelle & Tim Lootens Sondra & Jody Ludwick Joan & Max Lupuloff Lorraine Luskey Rachael & Daniel MacLeod Nasrin & Abraham Maghsoudi Reba Magids Helene Maltzman Barry Mandel Susan & Howard Marblestone Judi Marcoe
Dianna & Allan Margolin Bebby & Arthur Marlin Muriel & Marcel Meicler Ronit & James Mele Samantha & Gil Melman Anne Meltzer Amy & Michael Merkin Victoria & Rodney Merwin Donna & Arthur Miller Lauren & Jordan Mintz Sylvia & Martin Mintzer Susan & Ron Misrack Brena & Howard Moglovkin Cantor Diane & Rabbi Steven Morgen Moira & Michael Morris Hilary & Roni Most Ellen & Yahya Moussazadeh Gaston & Kelly Murray Karol & Daniel Musher Joanne & Louis Nash Nadezhda & Mikhail Natanzon Arlene & Arthur Nathan Tyann & Marc Nathan Ethel & Benard Nelkin Elise & Mark Newman Toby & Richard Newman Jill & Steven Newman Linda & Jerrold Paine Janine & Michael Pappert Sherrel & Keith Paull Reva Pearl Pamela & Barry Pearl Cheryl & Steven Pedersen Susan & Jeffrey Penn Melissa & Martin Peskin Carolyn Plessner Margaret & Donald Plotkin
Paula & Irving Pozmantier Donna & Harry Price Linda Rabinowitz Estelle & Charles Racusin Bradley Radoff Norman & Deborah & Rappaport Heather & Avi Rasowsky Ryva & Burton Reckles Annie & Isadore Reichek Sue & Kenneth Reichek Abigail & Howard Reiner Harriet E. Reitman Valerie & Jay Resh Joseph Rice Vicky & Michael Richker Stacy & Andy Robinson Leslie & Aaron Roffwarg Danielle & Jude Rolfes Debora & Giancarlo Romero Blanche & Irving Rose Rose Rose Marcie & Rabbi David Rosen Linda & Jay Rosen Adriana & Steve Rosenbaum Sheila & Marvin Rosenberg Debra & Todd Rosengart Marlene & Norman Rosenthal Shirlee Rosenthal Louise & Stewart Rosenthal Hava & Irving Rothman Tammy & Marcy Lynn Rothman Linda & Sheldon Rubenfeld Carolyn & Greg Rubenstein Peta & Jason Rubenstein Sandy Rubin Lisa & Eric Rubin Lisa & Abraham Rubinsky Joel Sachs
* High Holy Day Appeal Contributors as of October 1, 2018 12
We are so grateful to each and every supporter of our High Holy Day Appeal! Thank you for all that you do to ensure that Beth Yeshurun continues to provide its Jewish programs, classes and services.
We could not do this without you!
Robyn & Sion Saghian Meredith & Mark Sakowitz Barbara & Samuel Sakowitz Carol & Eric Samet Susan Sandler Daniel Savitt Marion & Dennis Schepps Abe Schnitzer Susan & Eric Schoen Marsha & Lionel Schooler Trina & Edward Schukar Dixon & Brian Schultz Elyse & Howard Schultz Leah & William Schultz Steven Schwartz Jacqueline & William Schwartz Stacy & Michael Schwartzberg Toby & Rabbi Jack Segal Dena & Scott Segal Barbara & Jerry Selzer Julie & Scott Shainock-Pearson Wendy & Allen Shapiro Linda & Brian Shapiro Jane Shapiro Reva Shapiro Sondra Shapiro Irene & Frank Shaw Lindsey & David Sheinbein Esther & Howard Shubitz Suzanne & Bryan Siegel Betsy & Todd Siff Maxine & Herman Silberstein Lisa & Brian Silver Donna & Paul Silverman Estelle & David Simchowitz Rochelle Sinderbrand Paula & Kenneth Singer Rochelle Skibell Alice Small
Angela & Jason Smith Marion & Richard Smith Barbara & Ron Smoller Linden & Roger Sofer Suzanne & Stuart Solomon Annette & Larry Sondock Marilyn & Tom Sonnenberg Shelley & Jeremy Sorkin Claudia & Sergio Soroka Melanie & Daniel Spelkin Hedy & Howard Spiegel Yvonne & Ronnie Spolane Amira & Bradley Staller Arlene & Joseph Staller Diane Statham Andrea & David Stein Meghan & David Stein Tracy & Gary Stein Debra & Howard Stein Ronnie Stein Samuel Stein Julia & Allan Steinberg Lindsy & Ryan Steinberg Sanford Steinberg Sherry Stoger Geri & Bob Stone Ahuva & Solomon Stopnicki Lisa & Rabbi Brian Strauss Michele & Steven Strauss Polina & Mark Strug Sandra & Bernard Sugar Patricia & Howard Sussman Jennifer-Joy Sutton Gail & Gary Swartz Sarah & Hershel Swartz Caryn & Benjamin Tamber-Rosenau Lindsay & Elan Tavor Jesse & Rachel Teichman Benjamin & Michele Tesciuba
Juliana & Stephen Tew Ilona & James Thomson Rachel & Andrew Toubin Ellen & Daniel Trachtenberg Sarah & David Turell Marsha Turell Roslyn Unger Netanya & Joshua Utay Jack Uzick Linda & Thomas Uzick Elizabeth Vincent Adrienne & Roy Wagenheim Glenda & Terry Waldman Yvonne Wallace Elizabeth Waxman Elizabeth & Jack Weingarten Marla & Michael Weinstein Barbara & Stanley Weinstein Susan & Alex Weisselberg Mindy & Miles Wertheimer Michael Wiesenthal Bianca & Matthew Wigder Sylvia & Jerome Wilkenfeld Bonnie & Jerry Winograd Bess Wishnow Rosemary H. Wishnow Marcia & Irving Wishnow Annat & David Wolf Rochelle & Lee Wunsch Judy & Ronnie Yambra Evelyn & Jerry Yellen Brenda & Edward Yosowitz Michelle & Jonathan Zadok Karen & Gregory Zimmerman Merryl & J. Gordon Zuber Rachel Zuckman Dianne & Stanley Zweback Myrna & Sheldon Zwickel
* High Holy Day Appeal Contributors as of October 1, 2018 13
AUGUST 2018 JEWISH FALL HOLIDAYS GATHERING PLACE PROGRAM We had a lot of fun at our August 2018 Jewish Fall Holidays Gathering Place program. One of our congregants stopped by to blow the shofar for our CarePartners. Our CarePartners also stretched with seated Tai Chi, enjoyed magic by Dr. Ed Sheinberg, listened to an inspirational talk by Rabbi Segal, visited with Rabbi Strauss, enjoyed a delicious lunch, and played bingo. Everyone enjoyed the beautiful cake donated by Three Brothers Bakery with the symbols of Rosh Hashanah. Thank you, Janice and Bobby Jucker, for all your support. At our October Gathering Place Program, we celebrated our seventh birthday, yes seven years of successful programming for people with memory loss. We were entertained by one of our favorite singing groups, Grandma’s Boy Friends, who sang us down memory lane with songs we love. The food was outstanding, and of course, thank you to InterFaith Care Partners for the beautiful birthday cake. Delicious. Many thanks to Rabbis Segal and Strauss who always make our programs so enjoyable. A giant thank you to our Sisterhood, clergy and volunteers for all their support. We can't do it without you! Lillie Hurwitz and Hedy Spiegel are Co-Chairs of the Gathering Place Program which is part of our Inclusion Committee programming. Richard Kammerman Chairman, Committee for the Inclusion of People with Disabilities 14
Depending on God Join us on Wednesdays from 7:00-8:00pm on the Bimah in the Freedman-Levit Sanctuary November 7th with Jan Silver mindfulness meditation for healing and restoration November 14th with Ray Sher and Gary Edmondson meditation and chanting based on this week’s Torah portion November 21st with Rabbi Sholklapper mindfulness meditation November 28th with Janice Rubin meditation and chanting No experience is necessary. Newcomers are always welcome. Drop in anytime. For more information contact Karen Hurwitz at karenhurwitz@karenhurwitz.com
Rabbi Horwitz
How much depends on God, and how much depends on us? We never know for sure. Sometimes, circumstances just don’t allow us to realize commitments we want to fulfill, and believe we should fulfill! But there are also times when we’re just not that committed.
Our siddur captures this uncertainty in a phrase included in one of the morning berakhot. “Vi’hi ratzon milfanekha, may it be Your will, Lord our God, that You accustom us to Your Torah and that we cleave to Your commandments...” Is it God’s job to get us to hold fast to Jewish practice? Someone is asking a lot of God! Don’t WE make our own decisions? We do set our own priorities...usually. What I think this prayer asks is not to have God do the work for us, but to help us with more favorable circumstances. If you have a job working ungodly hours, it will be harder for you to live a Godly life. You can still do it, but it will be more challenging because of the stress. And if you have no job at all, you may be spending all your time trying to get one... or you may be so depressed you can barely focus on getting resumes out, let alone coming to synagogue. If you feel you are the only person in your set of Jewish friends who seems to enjoy Judaism and really wants a meaningful Jewish life, that makes it harder for you to have it. That doesn’t mean you should give up these friends; they may be true friends and terrific people; plus, you may be the best Jewish influence they have! But it will be harder for you to maintain your commitments without the kind of peer support you would like. We all have at least some of these problems at some time. So, God, help me out a little...give me extra inspiration. If I haven’t yet made the commitment, at least I am here and asking. And that is a beginning. If your shift doesn’t pose a conflict, make it a priority and join us for worship in the Greenfield Chapel! ---Rabbi Daniel Horwitz 15
Direct HOPE 09.30.18
As you heard on Yom Kippur, Rabbi Strauss shared the importance of giving the time to do a little more for those in need. This month we share with you the work some of our congregants did with Direct HOPE on Sunday, September 30, 2018. On the first Sunday of each month, come rain or shine, volunteers from our congregation will travel to downtown Houston to serve 2 pm brunch to the clients of Direct HOPE. Direct HOPE serves approximately 150 to 200 hot meals each week to Houston’s homeless and low income community members, and distributes hundreds of snacks, beverages, and other necessities. This is a 1 to 2 hour commitment, is family friendly and requires the assistance of 15 volunteers each time. Although Direct HOPE began as a group to feed the homeless, today the organization focuses on helping people build better lives – ONE INDIVIDUAL AT A TIME, so that they can get off the streets and integrated back into the community as productive citizens. Résumé assistance, job connections, interview-appropriate clothing, housing assistance with furnishings, health care and finding emergency shelters are just some of the ways Direct HOPE has expanded its services. Many of their volunteers are former clients and now stand on the serving side of the buffet line each week. To view the 2018 Social Action Booklet and contact our chairs, Melissa Levin and Samantha Melman, visit bethyeshurun.org/our-community/social-action.
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B’nai Mitzvah
Sophia Alexis Frankel (November 2/3) is the daughter of Shari and Scott Frankel; sister of Megan Frankel; granddaughter of Barbara and Norman Frankel; Ellen Hariton and Steven Hariton. Sophia is a 7th grade student at the Emery Weiner School. For her mitzvah project, Sophia assembled bags of apples and honey for Rosh Hashanah; they were given to patients in the Medical Center from the Jewish Family Services. Inspired by her passion for animals, Sophia collected supplies and donated it to the SPCA and Pets Alive organizations. Sophia will donate a portion of her gifts to Jewish Family Services.
Teacher’s Shabbat November 9, 2018 at 6:00pm A special Shabbat honoring our Religious School and Day School Educators
Max Stuart Feferman (November 9/10) is the son of Melissa Schepps and Mark Feferman; brother of Miles Aaron Feferman. He is the grandson of Dennis and Marion Schepps and Don and Carol Feferman. For his Mitzvah project, he is volunteering through the Beth Yeshurun Teens volunteer program. In addition, because of his love for animals, Max will be donating a portion of his monetary gifts to the Wildlife Center of Texas. Asher Zachary Golub (November 23/24) is the son of Jeryl and Jeffrey Golub; brother of Orly and Olivia; granddaughter of Cheryl and Stephen Golub, and Zona and Martin Hoffman. Asher attends The Emery/Weiner School. For his Mitzvah projects, Asher organized multiple donation drives and volunteer opportunities for Houston Pets Alive, as well as donation collections for Neema International, a nonprofit orphanage and school in Tanzania, founded by Congregation Beth Yeshurun’s very own Mandy Stein. Asher will donate ten percent of his monetary gifts to Neema International. Please contact Hilary Nitsun at hnitsun@bethyeshurun.org or 713.255.8005, for your submission deadline to list your Bar/Bat Mitzvah student’s parents, siblings, grandparents, school, and Mitzvah Projects. 17
Family Album
Anniversaries ď ™ 11/1 3 Zachary Hiller & Donna Haim 11/2 11/3 11/4 11/5 11/6 11/7 11/8 11/9 11/10 11/11 11/12 11/13 11/14 11/15 11/16
15 42 49 59 10 15 27 41 11 17 55 18 18 30 30 7 8 49 3 3 9 31 64 10 31 4 15 21 5 11 17 17 33 58 1 18 39 2 14 37 58 9 9 14 19 53 9 10 15 48 5
11/17 11/18 11/19 11/20 11/21 11/22 11/23 11/24 11/25 11/26 11/27 11/28 11/29 11/30
Kenneth & Dana Katz Volf & Lilya Borchenko Francisco & Julia Maislos Norman & Marlene Rosenthal Elan & Lindsay Tavor Jeffrey & Amy Kaufman Cary & Marilyn Hoffman Irvin & Olivia Reiner Gabriel & Hayley Maislos Jay & Viki Blinderman Dmitriy Idashkin & Larisa Bogachevskaya Scott & Shari Frankel Steven & Linda Sheldon Robert & Pamela Penn Joseph & Rene Bloom Joshua & Alexandra Grosman Gilad & Lisa Zadok Mario & Drora Grossman Seth Hurwitz & Alexandra Penzell Scott & Rachel Lipshutz Mickey & Paige Baden Joe & Joy Kaplan William & Shirley Morgan Daniel & Melanie Spelkin Allan & Mellody Panzer Bruce & Jessica Coane David Schwartz & Rachel Kosoy Jeffery & Teresa Kaplan Kevin & Deborah Metter Jeffrey & Stacey Shidler Bobby & Heidi Bazarsky Rob & Elizabeth Naggar Cary & Karen Robinson Mikhail & Nadezhda Natanzon Doron & Cindy Levin Robert & Dorothy Jenkins Mark & Marlene Finkelstein Andrew Victores & Margaret Sopozhnikov Paul & Carrie Ostrin Dunbar Chambers & Joanna Gol Frank & Irene Shaw Stephen & Julia Jacobson Adam Price & Carolyn Douglas Benjamin & Lydia Musher Jeremy & Shelley Sorkin Sewell & Hannah Martin Jonathan & Yoela Levin Jason & Jessica Zoller Noah & Tamara Spiegel Herbert & Jill Kalman Michael & Rachel Schneider 18
21 32 43 6 50 63 1 17 45 2 13 18 24 35 35 3 9 19 31 37 47 38 15 60 62 68 11 16 61 1 8 18 34 34 51 53 67 14 46 7 25 30 26 37 42 47 48 33 31 31 32 5 49
David & Hannah Loev Eric & Isabelle Mayer Allen & Anita Mattis Micah & Jordann Grodin Jerry & Barbara Selzer Paul & Carol Horvitz Adam & Jaclyn Norris Steven & Gaby Goodweather Kenneth & Sue Reichek Joshua & Elissa Bauer Darin & Allyson Ackerman Murray & Amy Kalmin Peter & Julie Schneider Brian & Linda Shapiro Ben & Barbara Eisenbaum Brian & Amy Gordon Daniel & Jennifer Leventhal Martin & Kelli Fein Russell & Mary Miller Jerrel & Arlene Schorr Lawrence & Gail Silver Jeff & Carolyn Karp Scott & Dena Segal Leon & Miriam Toubin Jerry & Marcia Pappert Sheldon & Rae Gerson Roger & Judi Mendelovitz Jason Smith & Angela Smith-Litvak Jack & Toby Segal Byron & Pamela Capito Yoav & Erika Kaufman Benjamin & Rachel Lavine Robert & Julia Shaddox Stephen & Cathy Kuper Steve & Jo King Jerome & Judith Bell Raymond & Ruth Eagle Joseph & Constance Shoss Howard & Susan Marblestone Brian & Blakely Loftus Barry & Judi Wuntch Michael & Klara Lewis Ronny & Gail Shoss Stuart & Frida Wilson Michael & Elissa Laviage Sheldon & Linda Rubenfeld Myles & Linda Goetz Mark & Charisse Sands Steve & Sandra Finkelman Richard & Jackie Mark Bradley & Malka Levy Alex & Stephanie Yudovich Ivor & Hadassah Foox
ď ™CONDOLENCES The congregation extends its sincerest condolences to the families of: Aaron Goldstein and Solo Kandel. May their memories be for a blessing.
TO OUR NEW MEMBERS ď ™WELCOME Daniel & Amy Ferber and Family
Jonathan & Emily Lepow and Family David & Brenlee Selchen and Family Laurie Dreyfuss Arje & Ronit Gerecht Scott & Reina McMillian and Family Joshua & Elissa Bauer Jonathan Stoger Sarah Robinson Steven & Noga Tobias and Family Marsha Glickman Brian & Robyn Goldstein and Family Jennifer Varadi David Freudenberger Eric Lipkowitz Todd & Debra Rosengart Todd Ratajczak & Jamie Patin Laura Neiman Leon Luxemburg Talia Mergi and Family Mario Zamora Rachel Collett Raymond & Ruth Eagle Joel & Jennifer LeVine Joel & Andrea Falk and Family Beth Tavernith and Family Mark & Jocelyn Roth Suzanne Bershad and Family Matthew & Catherine Ginzberg and Family Anna Guerra Itai & Lindsay Ben Eli and Family Vadim & Rita Tunitsky John & Jennifer Bolton and Family Airan Yoets & Veronica Olvera Andrew & Leigh Wilk Summer Rebienot Gina Freeman Jeffrey Simon & Linda Vega Erica Robinson Matan Agam & Erica Thum Eryn Schultz Daniel Smith Joshua & Lauren Hill and Family William Beaujon & Stacie Lefkowitz Elliot Kerns James & Karen Feldman and Family
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Samuel Strum Kyle Bloch & Sarah Goldberg Josh & Shannon Aruh and Family Joseph Lewis David & Jessica Kreiner and Family Daniel & Leslie Pesis and Family Matthew & Catherine Steele and Family Gabriel & Sara Samet David & Sarah Turell Matthew Turell Ryan Brown Ariel Brown Corrado & Carley Giovanella and Family Reuben & Maxine Grinstein Shannon Reiter Jared Rubenstein & Leyat Tal Yair & Hayley Kol and Family Julie Stein Charles & Pamela Cohen Alan Prossin & Julie Kaplow and Family Erik Levinson & Kristina Prapuolenis Gillian Freede Matthew & Ellee Breit and Family Marlie Merwin Gita Holodovsky and Family Leon & Rina Trakhtenberg David Bent Greg Zivov Joshua Segall & Tiffany McNeal Danny Shoham & Hayley Stulmalar and Family Wayne & Susan Hill Natassia McMillian Michael & Mari Taksa and Family Aaron & Rebecca Lindenbaum and Family Eden Shapiro Judith Joachim Rousseau and Family Gordon Jones & Lauren Nagler and Family Alan & Judy Rosen Charles & Fannet Nater and Family Jay Schaffer Tomas & Abby Ackerman and Family Sonia Valenzuela Steven Stein Ori & Damaris Cruz-Goldberg and Family Robert and Elizabeth Greene Natalie Garson Rachael Levy Jason & Faye Casell and Family Seth Podhoretz and Zhaniya Nurseiit Daniel Blucher Neale & Haley Clark Andrew & Leigh Wilk Andrew & Heidi Kaminsky
Interfaith Dialog Series: Begins November 29th Heaven and Hell: Who’s Going Where? with pastor taylor ince
November 29
Religion and Politics: How Can Our Faith Guide us on Issues of the Day with pastor taylor ince
December 6
Back by Poplular Demand with matthias henze, ph.d. December 13
Meet the Speakers As a pastor of Sojourn Galleria, Taylor oversees the preaching ministry at Sojourn, and he provides overall leadership for the ministries of Sojourn Galleria Church. Both he and Robin, his wife, are Houston natives! Taylor studied at Wake Forest University (history), Reformed Theological Seminary (divinity), and The University of Edinburgh, New College (Hebrew and Old Testament). He is a 2015 graduate of the Houston Church Planting Network finishing residency. Matthias Henze, Ph.D., is the Isla Carroll and Percy E. Turner Professor of Hebrew Bible and Early Judaism. His areas of interest include the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament, Jewish literature and thought at the time of the Second Temple, apocalyptic literature, and the Qumran fragments. In particular, Dr. Henze focuses on those early texts that never became part of the Jewish Bible - often subsumed under the labels ‘Apocrypha’ and ‘Pseudepigrapha’ – and what we can learn when these texts are read side by side with the canonical writings.
Friday, November 30, 2018 Shabbat Guest Speakers Noa Yammer, International Engagement and Communications
Raneem Nashef, Graduating Class 2016, Max Rayne Hand in Hand Jerusalem School Noa is an Americanborn educator, activist, Raneem grew up in and musician who has Jerusalem in the Beit been living in Jerusalem Tzafafa Neighborhood, since 2003. Noa shares and studied at Hand the Hand in Hand story with thousands in Hand from kindergarten through of supporters in Israel and around the 12th grade. She is now in her second world in visits, workshops, and online. year of a BA in Biology at the Hebrew Trained in Public Narrative, she also University in Jerusalem. When Raneem leads storytelling workshops for Hand in graduates in two years, she is interested Hand staff, parents, and alumni, helping in working in a microbiology lab, focusing them share their stories locally and world- on studying diseases and developing wide. Noa is also the Program Director at new medications. In her free time, she Heartbeat, a music dialogue organization volunteers in a children’s cancer ward for Israeli and Palestinian youth and has in Hadassah hospital, supporting and years of experience in dialogue facilitation bringing joy to the Jewish and Arab and informal education in many different patients there. “Hand in Hand is a huge forums. Noa earned a BA in psychology part of who I am now – strong and and Jewish history and an MA in gender independent, open to all of the different studies from Bar Ilan University. In her people that I meet out in the world. I see spare time, Noa studies and teaches that Jews and Arabs stay so separate, Nonviolent Communication, studies but I know it can be different. I want to Arabic, and volunteers at the Jerusalem show them that.” Rape Crisis Center. 20
Shira Mingelgrin, Graduating Class 2012, Max Rayne Hand in Hand Jerusalem School Shira grew up in Jerusalem with one younger brother, and started at Hand in Hand in first grade. She left the school for a few years at age 13, but chose to return at age 16, because “this is where I feel most at home – with my Jewish and Arab friends, together.” After graduating high school in 2012, she entered a two-year compulsory military service, which she finished in 2015. In 2016, Shira began her BA in statistics and economics in Hebrew University and is now in her third and last year of her studies. She hopes to continue into a MA in biostatistics and bio data analysis. Shira was one of the founders of the Hand in Hand alumni program, because she wanted to help alumni stay connected and involved. In her free time, she volunteers in a shelter for abused women and their children.
FREE FIREWOOD Any Beth Yeshurun member looking for free firewood can bring their car/truck to Post Oak Cemetery and take as much as they can carry. For information contact Jose Ramirez at 713-560-8102. Hours of the cemetery are Sunday-Friday, 8:30am – 4:00pm.
2018-2019 PROGRAM SCHEDULE 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. A complete schedule can be found on our website by visiting: bethyeshurun.org/100JM
Thank you to our Steering Committee! Michael Wiesenthal, Mark Newman, Wayne Arzt, Nir Grossman, Jerry Selzer, Michael Schwartzberg, Bill Schwartz, Paul Katz, Michael Lisch, Eric Gibbs, Marty Peskin, Reid Friedman, and Ryan Kagan. All dinners at 7:00 pm followed by programs at 7:30 pm. Wednesday, November 14 | Jim G. Conway, FBI agent | The Challenges of Protecting Houston from Terrorists James G. Conway has served our nation with distinction for over 35 years, twenty-five of those years as a Special Agent of the FBI. Beginning in 1984, Conway, was a member of the Houston Division of the FBI where he managed a number of successful and complex investigations in the areas of Organized Crime, Violent Crime, and Counterterrorism. Currently, Conway is the President of Global Intel Strategies a Houston-based firm that consults, trains and advises government agencies, academia, and the media on terrorism and national security issues as well as private sector corporations on global and travel security issues, counterterrorism measures and risk mitigation. For a complete biography visit: globalintelstrategies.com/bio Wednesday, December 12 | Rep. Sarah Davis Sarah Davis is an accomplished attorney devoting her career to defending against personal injury lawsuits. She is of counsel with the national law firm of Wilson Elser Moskowitz Edleman & Dicker, LLP. Sarah was first elected to the Texas House of Representatives in 2010 and served on the Public Health and Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committees. Sarah was re-elected in 2012 and served on the Public Health, Calendars, and Appropriations committees. In her current term, Sarah continues to serve on the Calendars committee, and was appointed to serve on the Corrections committee. For a complete biography visit: sarahdavis134.com/about
Save the Date for Spring 2019!
Wednesday, January 9 J. Kent Friedman, President Houston Sports Authority, Lawyer, Community leader
Wednesday, February 13 Charlie Pallilo Sports, A Lot More than Just Games
Sunday, April 7 Men's Mock Passover Seder at UOS with Rabbi Brian Strauss & Others
Wednesday, May 15 Doctor Panel with Clive Fields Staying Alive: Men's Health in the 21st Century
Register & pay online at www.bethyeshurun.org/100JM or submit this registration form, along with a check payable to Beth Yeshurun, to Rabbi Brian Strauss Congregation Beth Yeshurun | 4525 Beechnut St. | Houston, TX 77096 Registration Cost*: $110/CBY Members; $125/Non-CBY Members *Financial Assistance is available - please contact Rabbi Strauss.
100 JEWISH MEN 2018-2019 REGISTRATION
Name________________________________________________________________________________________________ Billing Address____________________________________________ City/St/Zip_____________________________________ Contact Phone #_____________________________________ E-Mail____________________________________________ Optional Scholarship Donation $ ______ CBY Member __ CBY Non-Member __ 21
The Gathering Place provides a free of charge loving, safe and fun environment for care partners experiencing memory loss due to Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, stroke or other forms of dementia. The Gathering Place meets once a month, at Congregation Beth Yeshurun. The meetings combine physical movement, socialization, music, and other memory-stimulating activity in a safe and comfortable 3 1/2 hour time block, enabling caregivers to attend to their personal needs without worry. A professional staff member attends each Gathering Place to provide expert support and assistance to the volunteers. The Beth Yeshurun Sisterhood is a proud suporter of the Gathering Place. For more information please contact our coordinators: Lillie Hurwitz at lilliehur@gmail.com or Hedy Spiegel at hedy1234@aol.com bethyeshurun.org/gathering-place
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THE MEDALLION AND THE JEWISH COMMUNITY... WE HONOR AND NURTURE, TOGETHER 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.
• Wellness Center and heated aqua therapy pool • Fine kosher dining • Jewish cultural programs and holidays observed • Active schedule of social and recreational programs
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The Medallion and Seven Acres have 75 years of experience caring for seniors. Our staff, residents and families make The Medallion a special place to call home. Come join our family.
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Contact Us
SYNAGOGUE OFFICE bethyeshurun.org | 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: Hilary Nitsun hnitsun@bethyeshurun.org | 713.255.8005
Time sensitive material - please deliver promptly!
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!
SYNAGOGUE Jerrad Bloome, President
president@bethyeshurun.org
Andy Burger, Executive Director aburger@bethyeshurun.org
Mindi Stern, Membership
mstern@bethyeshurun.org
Jennifer-Joy Sutton, Director of Development jsutton@bethyeshurun.org
Riana Sherman, Programming Director rsherman@bethyeshurun.org
Ashley Mills, Marketing & Communications Manager amills@bethyeshurun.org
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 Dan Ahlstrom, Head of School: dahlstrom@byds.org Read The Message online at bethyeshurun.org December deadline: November 2nd to Ashley Mills 24