Temple
Isaiah
Bulletin
VOLUME 49, ISSUE 9
May 2014
Celebrate at
Temple Isaiah
Temple Isaiah
Events
MEET RABBI SHARON SOBEL MAY 4
YOM HA’ATZMAUT CELEBRATION MAY 5
RUMMAGE SALE MAY 4, 5, 6
END-OF-YEAR BBQ MAY 18
Member Union
for
Reform Judaism
11
25
1:30 pm Renaissance Club
18
Religious School/Atid 8 am Brotherhood BBQ prep 11 am End-of-Year BBQ NOON Adult Ed: Torah Study
Religious School 1:15 pm Soup Kitchen
Memorial Day
Religious School
26
19
12
Religious School-Rekudiah 8 pm Bd of Trustees Mtg
5
27
6:30 am Early AM StudyJewish Thought 8 pm Basic Judaism: Torah Values Track
20
6:30 am Early AM StudyHaftarot 7 pm Basic Judaism: Hebrew Track 8 pm Basic Judaism: Torah Values Track
13
Religious School 6:30 am Early AM StudyJewish Thought 7 pm Basic Judaism: Hebrew Track 8 pm Basic Judaism: Torah Values Track
6
Religious School/TYG 9:09 am Brotherhood Mtg NOON Adult Ed: Torah Study 9 am Rummage drop-off 1pm Rummage Sale 7 pm Rabbi Sobel Meet-&-Greet
4
Religious School 6:30 am Early AM StudyHaftarot 10 am-1 pm Rummage Sale Bag Day 8 pm Basic Judaism: Torah Values Track
Religious School 10 am-1 pm and 7 pm-9 pm Rummage Sale 2 pm Book Discussion Group
7:30 pm Yom Ha’atzmaut Celebration
Saturday Ushers 3 Steinweis/Arato family 10 Jonas/Free family 17 Feldman 24 Rosen/Dichter family 31 Kolsch family
Tuesday
Friday Ushers 2 Schoenfeld 9 Rosofsky 16 Feldman 23 Kanter 30 Rosen
Monday
Oneg Hosts 2 Arato 9 Kelson 23 Lieberman 30 Dichter
Sunday
14
7
28
21
7 pm Social Action Dinner
NFTY Jr Youth Kallah: 5/3-5/4
Wednesday
8
7 pm Confirmation Rehearsal
29
22
7:30 pm Ritual Committee Mtg
15
7 pm Brotherhood Dinner Mtg 7:15 pm Sisterhood Bd Mtg
1
7-10 pm Defensive DrivingRm 5
Thursday
Friday
Candle Lighting: 7:59
30
5 pm Music Tot Shabbat
23
16
8 pm Erev Shabbat Service Honoring Rabbi Karol
Candle Lighting: 7:55
6 pm Kabbalat Shabbat Service
Candle lighting: 7:47
2
9 8 pm Erev Shabbat Service
Candle lighting: 7:40
5 pm Story Tot Shabbat
8 pm Erev Shabbat Service
Candle lighting: 7:33
7 pm Erev Shabbat Service -Scouts
May 2014 / Iyar - Sivan - 5774
3
10
17
31
Max LiebermanBar Mitzvah NASO Evening Event-Honoring Rabbi Karol
24 10 am Shabbat Morning Service
BAMIDBAR
Joshua Kelson-Bar Mitzvah
10 am Shabbat Morning Service
BECHUKOTAI
Marilyn Zucker Adult Bat Mitzvah 12 pm Shabbaton Program
10 am Shabbat Morning Service
BEHAR
Cameron Arato-Bar Mitzvah
10 am Shabbat Morning Service
EMOR
Mason Gruber-Bar Mitzvah B’nai Mitzvah Disc Grp-D
10 am Shabbat Morning Service
Shabbat
Temple Isaiah
,s Reflections R abbi Rabbi,s Reflections
MY SUCCESSOR’S SUCCESS I have used the words “my successor” twice before
that a successor is “someone who has a job,
—first at Temple Beth Zion in Buffalo (in 1981)
position, or title after someone else.” Rabbi Sobel
and later in Hingham, Massachusetts (in 2003—a
will succeed me because she comes after me, but
year after I came to Stony Brook because there was
I hope that she will succeed in three other ways as
an interim rabbi for one year). Those two words may
listed by Dictionary.com: 1) to “have the desired
be scary to some people and welcome to others, but
result”; 2) to “thrive, prosper, grow”; and 3) to
they bring me tremendous joy and optimism.
“accomplish what is intended or attempted.” The desired result could be to create spiritual, social,
My successor is Rabbi Sharon Sobel, a colleague
and educational connections with you. The thriving,
I met a number of years ago and have become ac-
prospering, and growing could be for her as a rabbi,
quainted with during and after the search process.
for you and me as her congregants, and for our con-
We spoke on the phone for over an hour before she
gregation as a community. And, the accomplishing
came here for her interview and we talked in person
what is intended or attempted would reflect one of
when she was at our temple in February. We made
the priorities of the Search Committee that acted on
it a point to have lunch on the first full day of the
your behalf—to move this congregation forward in a
convention of the Central Conference of American
positive way for the future.
Rabbis (CCAR) in Chicago at the end of March, and we saw each other frequently over the next few
In my opinion, the best example of how a leader
days. Our colleagues believe—as I do—that she is
should relate to his successor and his community
the right person for our congregation. I look forward
comes from the Torah with Moses and Joshua.
to spending more time talking with her when she is
Knowing that he will not be going to the Promised
here for a visit near the beginning of this month.
Land, Moses works with Joshua and places confi-
And, we will actually be working together in July
dence in him in front of the entire people. He says to
because her first two weeks (July 1st-14th) will be
Joshua: “Be strong, be courageous.” (Deuteronomy
my last two weeks. This will give us an opportu-
31:6) That is my message to Rabbi Sobel and to
nity for orientation and collaboration as we seek
you because her success will be your success and
to point our congregation in the right direction for
Temple Isaiah’s success. She will succeed because
the future. As the second Rabbi Emeritus of our
of her skills and knowledge and experience and
congregation, I am invested in the future of our
personality, and she will succeed because you will
congregation as Rabbi Emeritus Adam Fisher has
help her to do so. Each of us, after all, should want
been during my twelve-year tenure. He has provided
my successor to succeed.
me a fine example of being a great Emeritus. Of course, the word “successor” has a number of
L’Shalom,
meanings.
Rabbi Stephen Karol
The Merriam-Webster Dictionary says
3
Music & Meditation
Shabbaton
May 17th at 12 pm Music is a part of worship on Shabbat. It can enhance the day as we medidate and de-stress. Come relax with friends as Cantor Labow performs "music from the soul" on piano. Bring a yoga mat, pillow, and/or comfortable chair and leave your cares at the door. Bring your own lunch. Beverage and snack will be provided. RSVP temple office: 631-751-8518
Save The Date! June 27th at 8 pm Join us in wishing Cantor Labow farewell & good luck! A tribute to Cantor Labow is being planned for this Erev Shabbat Service to be followed by a special Oneg. 4
Notes
from the
Cantor
THE STORY OF THE JEWS AND A MUSICAL MEDITATION SHABBATON If you had a chance to catch any of Simon Schama's
than despair. It is a quality that can be understood
series “The Story of the Jews” on PBS recently, you
by anyone, and this is why so many of these artists
might have been struck by how his enthusiasm for
have become so successful in the greater world. All
Jewish history infused the historical facts with fervent
of this is eloquently presented by Schama in the
emotion. You might also have noticed, at least in the
series. There is also a specifically meditative quality
films covering the 1700’s and beyond, that he has a
to Jewish art and music. When interpretive systems
particular passion for Jewish history as told through
(Midrash, Kabbalah) are applied, the art and music
the careers of famous Jewish musicians, lyricists
take us deeper into the world and into ourselves, to
and composers such as Mendelssohn, Meyerbeer,
places that are, in effect, transcendental. The soul
Schoenberg and Yip Harburg. Music, historically,
follows the melody or the line in a painting or the
was a vehicle for Jewish passions and prophetic
images of a poem, and loses itself either in joy or
messages even as the careers of the musicians were
sorrow; the floodgates of emotions opened wide. The
complicated by the ever-present pressure to melt
art becomes a refuge from the world into a uniquely
into the general society. Jewish musicians suffered
Judeo-human realm.
from anti-semitism but not as severely as military or political figures. Contrast Alfred Dreyfus’ ceremonial
Shabbat, the ultimate refuge in the labyrinth of
degradation with any concurrent criticism of Jewish
creation, has been a traditional time for meditation
music (such as that of Wagner, based in anti-semi-
and reflection. It is a gift for all of the Jewish people,
tism mixed with a petulant aesthetic tirade) and a
regardless of affiliations. Music is a part of worship
picture will emerge in which the Jewish soul is free
on Shabbat, and can enhance the day with medita-
in the arts even as its body is chained to the ground.
tion and relaxation. Along those lines, I would like to invite you to a special Shabbaton program of musical
The continuity of Jewish spiritual expression through
relaxation and meditation for a Shabbat afternoon on
art is long-standing. Even in suffering we become
May 17th. After a lunch and some study about music
poets, writers, painters, and musicians who utter
and spirituality (you bring the lunch - Temple will
longing to God for peace and stability. The cathar-
provide beverages and dessert), I will provide an hour
sis that is found in the art of other cultures (Chris-
of improvised music from the soul, weaving Jewish
tian art, for instance, frames it in telling the story of
melodies into the mix on the beautiful Yamaha C5
Jesus) permeates Jewish art and culture through the
piano at Temple. You are invited to be silent and
centuries in every land in which we have lived. A full
listen during the hour - bring a Yoga mat, a pillow,
catalogue of Jewish creative output would be mas-
a comfortable folding chair, a favorite book, a family
sive, and would include cultural artifacts that might
photo album to leaf through, Shabbat study read-
not seem Jewish, but have a Jewish soul. The idea of
ing or another religious text, or just your thoughts.
a Jewish soul or neshama in art is a specific one that tells us of yearning, faithfulness, and hope rather
(continued on page 7)
5
Sustaining Members & Friends of Temple Isaiah 2014 Please help us to maintain Temple Isaiah as a house of worship, a house of learning, and a house of assembly by becoming a Sustaining Member in 2014. It is here where you celebrate life-cycle events, and it is here where you will find support when you need it. It is with your strong financial support that Temple Isaiah will continue to provide education, worship services, and support for people who are experiencing loss, crisis, or illness. Please join our growing list of Sustaining Members!
Silver Chai Claire Baer Arnie & Honey Katz Richard & Gina Rose Circle of Enrichment Jerry & Linda Barancik Jerry & Barbara Fine David & Iris Schiff Mark & Gloria Snyder Harry Verby Circle of Growth Craig & Paula Balaban Steve & Paula Bennett Rabbi Adam & Eileen Fisher Marc & Ruth Fisher Rodger & Linda Jonas Rabbi Stephen Karol Ted & Deborah Rosenberg Richard & Linda Stopsky Circle of Hope Ivan & Ilene Ensler Alfred & Suzan Goldhaber Randee Kanter & Pat Urquhart Paul & Norma Michael Stephen & Lisa Sokoloff Dan Stenzler & Joan Korins Phyllis Sterne Chaverim Howard & Leah Block Mark & Essie Freilach q q q q q
6
Chaverim (continued) Suzanne Gabrielsen Stewart & Anita Gaffan Bernard & Irene Gische Barbara Goldberg Luis Gruberg & Rakefet Einav Gruberg Gary & Barbara Kamen Marshall Lacoff Micheal & Dreania LeVine Theo & Marion Pavlidis Morton & Bernice Rosen Dean & Susan Rosenzweig Alan & Myra Rosofsky Mark & Mona Saidens Lewis Silverman Richard & Susan Tuckman Daniel & Phyllis Turner Stephen & Diane Weitzman Mitzvah Partner Judy Albano Stephen & Sandy Dick Joseph & Eileen Donnelly Larry & Sharon Epstein Pamela Feldman James & Janet Feldstein Howard & Shelley Fleit Rose French Marian Guralnick Stephen & Janet Hiller Ira & Robin Koeppel Marlin & Cora Levi Steven Shapiro Cantor Michael & Cherie Trachtenberg
Platinum Chai ($5,400 or above) Golden Chai ($3,600-$5,399) Silver Chai ($1,800-$3,599) Circle of Enrichment ($1,018-$1,799) Circle of Growth ($540-$1,017)
q q q q
Mitzvah Partner (continued) Douglas & Lisa Walters Tom & Robin Wells Chai or Multiple Bruce & Jill Berns Kenneth & Melissa Bossert Jayne Cohen Alan & Shari Countess Steven Fallis & Carrie Blank Sylvia Feingold Lillian Goldstein Carole-Ann Gordon Steven & Bonnie Katz Lance & Lisa Kirshner Carl Kravitz Charles & June Levine Carlos & Michelle Lopes Harriet Martin Howard & Jodi Mazer Norman & Gigi Querido Harvey & Fran Robinson Jay & Margaret Schoenfeld Ilene & Dion Shea Pamela Shulder Randee Silberfeld Brett & Fern Silverman Saul & Irva Steinweis George Sterman & Elise Frank Shirley Willig Richard & Barbara Wright Larry & Marcia Yellin
Circle of Hope ($360-$539) Chaverim ($180-$359) Mitzvah Partner ($118-$179) Chai or Multiple ($18-$117)
Temple Isaiah
President,s Podium
CHANGES… BIG AND SMALL There are so many changes taking place at Temple
As Cantor Labow prepares for his move to Pennsyl-
Isaiah these days.
vania, we’ll have one final opportunity to thank him and say goodbye at a special Shabbat service, next
We’ve turned our main building and our school build-
month on June 27th. Cantor Trachtenberg, mean-
ing into wi-fi hot spots this spring (thank you, David
while, is very excited to be resuming his former role.
Schiff), as we move toward fully embracing current technology. And now that word is getting out about
And finally, the response from congregants to the
this, I’ve begun to notice several parents already tak-
announcement that Rabbi Sharon Sobel will be
ing advantage of our wi-fi-enabled lobby with their
Temple Isaiah’s next rabbi has been tremendous.
laptops, iPads/tablets, and smart phones while wait-
The Search Committee and I have heard the positive
ing for their child during Hebrew School or Bar/Bat
comments from so many of you who’ve checked out
Mitzvah tutoring.
her website and blog via the link we had provided. You’ve added to the confidence we feel that we’ve
Penny Gentile is settling in as our new Temple Ad-
chosen the right person to lead us into the future and
ministrator, following the much-deserved retirement
begin Temple Isaiah’s next fifty years. As you know
of her longtime predecessor Nancy Cali. Stop by the
by now, she’ll be in town early this month and I hope
front office to congratulate Penny on her new role!
you’ll take advantage of this first opportunity to meet Rabbi Sobel in person on May 4th.
And, of course, there are the seismic changes. Yes, lots of changes and the need to adjust that will It’s been wonderful to see the large turnout at events
come with all these changes. I’m so excited about
honoring Rabbi Karol as he prepares to retire this
our future.
summer and join Rabbi Fisher as Rabbi Emeritus. One more huge opportunity to thank Rabbi Karol and
L’Shalom
to celebrate his years of service is coming later this
Dean Rosenzweig
month, the weekend after Memorial Day, at services
Email: dtrosenzweig@gmail.com
on Friday, May 30th, and at a party on Saturday, May
Home Ph (631) 444-0199
31st.
Cell Ph (646) 884-3615
Notes from the Cantor (continued from page 5) To be left at the door: news of violence, current
Shabbat afternoon and hope you will join me to
affairs concerns, and worries about gain (shopping)
experience it.
and monetary affairs. It is the enhanced version of the “shabbat afternoon nap” with doors open to new
L’Shalom
spiritual worlds. I am looking forward to this unique
Cantor Ted Labow
7
Postings from the Parents’ Association It’s hard to believe but the school year is drawing
too late to join! If you would like to be involved next
to a close. PA’s final event of the year is the End-
year, please e-mail us, Nancy Linden & Ilene Horan,
of-Year Barbeque on the last day of Sunday classes--
at nlinden@optonline.net & mamallama2@optonline.
May 18th. Join us at 11
net. We’re the co-chairs of the Parents’ Association
am
for food, face-painting,
temporary tattoos, and more! Stay tuned! It’s NEVER
and we’re looking forward to meeting you!
Meet Our New Rabbi Come and meet Rabbi Sharon Sobel on May 4th at 7
pm
in our sanctuary. It
will be an informal setting where our congregants will have the opportunity to ask questions and get to know her.
The Rabbi Adam D. Fisher Library Our temple library is open one half-hour before each Erev Shabbat Service. If you are available to volunteer, please call Barbara Yarmus at 981-2709.
Story Tot Shabbat
Tot Shabbat
Musical Tot Shabbat
Led by Rabbi Karol & Eileen Fisher
Led by Cantor Labow
May 9th
May 30th
Preschoolers (3 to 5 years old) and their parents are invited to come and share a "Taste of Shabbat" at our bi-weekly Tot Shabbat Services. These services include songs, basic prayers, a story, and an up-close-and-personal experience with the Torah. After we bless the juice and challah at the Oneg Shabbat, each child will receive a mini-challah to take home. What a great way for Temple Isaiah members, relatives, friends, and neighbors to greet Shabbat together.
8
Religious School Review A PORTRAIT OF A RELIGIOUS SCHOOL TEACHER Mitzvah Day at Temple Isaiah is always a great way
for our land, our water and animals, and to teach
for our Religious School students to learn as well as
others to do the same.
to help our community. This year, the topic was the significance of water. The preservation and conser-
The educators from the Sierra Club that were here
vation of our water supply on Long Island and all
for Mitzvah Day were engaging and explained the
over the world is a midah [a value]. This is man-
water issue on Long Island and why our issue is dif-
dated in the Torah as the concept of Bal Tashchit,
ferent from other locations. Kibbutz Lotan in Israel
you shall not destroy. The theme begins with the
(which we support) has an ecological theme. The
Creation story in Genesis.
kibbutz is a major education center for recycling. Our Temple Isaiah fifth grade students spend sev-
We are on this planet given to us by God to use it for
eral weeks learning about the exciting projects that
everyday life, to enjoy all that nature has to offer.
take place at Kibbutz Lotan.
Bal Tashchit is a very significant mitzvah to perform as we live on this earth, and preserving our planet is
Thank you to the Social Action Committee for all
a significant responsibility we all share. As we work
their efforts at Mitzvah Day 2014 and teaching our
with organizations that reduce pollution and protect
students about the significance of water and Bal
our endangered species to keep our environment
Tashchit.
and our earth in harmony, Psalm 115:16 comes to mind.
It states that God has given the earth to
humanity.
We must feel a responsibility to care
Rabbi Harvey Witman Educational Director
Fifth and Sixth Grade Parents Please join us on Monday, May 12th for our annual Rekudiah Dance Festival for Israel. Jill Cohen will be leading your children in the wonderful experience of Israeli Dance. Parent participation is welcome!
Our Daily Bread Soup Kitchen Members of Temple Isaiah’s Social Action Committee and other volunteers staff the Our Daily Bread Soup Kitchen at St. James Catholic Church (429 Route 25A in Setauket). This month’s date is May 11th. Please note the times: set-up will be from 1:15 - 2:00, dinner will be served at 3:00, and all clean-up should be done by 5:00.
9
Please join us as we wish
Rabbi Stephen Karol a future of fulfillment and happiness
Laugh Sing Reminisce Saturday, May 31st 8 pm at Temple Isaiah
Hors d'oeuvres Desserts Wine Music $30 per person Please RSVP by May 15 to tisaiah@optonline.net or call 751-8518 10
Our Year of Living Torah RESTORING OUR SCROLL - RENEWING OUR SOULS A CONTINUING COMMITMENT The Holocaust Torah Restoration Committee was thrilled to have as our Scholar-in-Residence Sofer Neil Yerman, who instructed us about the significance of Hebrew letters, led us through a creative art project, and helped our adults and Confirmation/ Post-Confirmation students to be "Torah Detectives.� Approximately 380 people have had the opportunity to take part in the writing to restore our Holocaust Torah. It was a very successful fundraiser, but it is still an ongoing project. We have to make sure that we finalize exactly what needs to be done in the Ark to insure that temperature and moisture levels are appropriate to maintain the Holocaust Torah now that it has been restored. Donations are still being accepted towards this goal as well as for other ways
to allocate the funds that have been raised and will be raised in the future. You can send contributions to Temple Isaiah or call the Temple office for more details. Sunday April 27th Yom Ha Shoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, was the "official" celebration of the Torah returning. A special Oneg followed the morning ceremony. We want to thank everyone who was involved in this project and made it such a success.
L' Dor Vador From generation to generation
Temple Board Members A President: Dean Rosenzweig A Past President: Carole-Ann Gordon A Vice President: Randee Kanter A Vice President: Alan Rosofsky A Vice President: Gloria Snyder A Vice President: Richard Tuckman A Recording Secretary: Irva Steinweis A Corresponding Secretary: Jill Berns A Financial Secretary: Diane Weitzman
A Treasurer: Steven Katz A Trustees: Jayne Cohen, Shari Countess, Pam Feldman, Suzan Goldhaber, Linda Jonas, June Levine, Howard Mazer, Mort Rosen, Mark Saidens, Iris Schiff, Phyllis Sterne, Harry Verby
A Sisterhood Representative: Janet Feldstein A Brotherhood Representative: Jay Schoenfeld
TEMPLE ISAIAH
11
Adult Education Torah Study: The Book
of
at
Temple Isaiah
Joshua
Rabbi Karol and other members of the group will be expanding the meaning of “studying Torah” to include the Book of Joshua and find out what happened in the Promised Land. Members and non-members are welcome. You will need to purchase The Jewish Study Bible, edited by Adele Berlin and Marc Zvi Brettler, and published by Oxford University Press. Please contact the Rabbi if you have any questions. Leader:
Rabbi Stephen Karol
Sunday: 5/4, Chapter 24 (the final chapter)
Time: Noon-1
pm
5/18, Celebration and Discussion of next year’s book or books to study
Basic Judaism
Basic Judaism: The Torah Values Track We are using the book Entering the Biblical Text: Exploring Jewish Values in the Torah by Rabbi Ronald H. Isaacs. During these classes we will be discussing certain Torah portions. Students are responsible for obtaining the book and reading the chapters before each class. Instructor: Rabbi Stephen Karol Tuesday: 5/6, “Ten Spies: Demoralizing a People”
Time: 8
pm
(This is the Torah portion from which our Adult B’nai Mitzvah will be reading on Saturday morning,
June 14th)
5/13, “The Sacrifice of Isaac”
5/20, “The Blessing of Jacob and Esau”
5/27, “The Ten Commandments”
Adult B’nai Mitzvah: On May 17th, Marilyn Zucker will become a Bat Mitzvah at our Shabbat morning service. On June 14th, Eileen Baker, Paula Balaban, Marylin Baracks, Suzanne Dulin, Tina Dunayer, Ilene Horan, Geri Kazenoff, Ann Lieberman, Barbara Meyer, Karen Rose, Myra Rosofsky, Gladys Rothbell, and Preston Schoenfeld will become B’nai Mitzvah at our Shabbat morning service. They are among the 25 adults who participated in the Basic Judaism course that began in September and met almost every week. Arranged as “tracks,” the classes were taught by Carole-Ann Gordon (Hebrew), Rabbi Karol (Services, Theology, and Torah Values), Rabbi Witman (Holidays and Life-Cycle Events), and Cantor Labow (Torah Trope). Like the Adult B’nai Mitzvah classes and the Adult Confirmation class before them, the students developed a series of camaraderie and community. Please join them for their simcha and praise them for their accomplishments.
12
Camp Corner Over the past several years, a number of research
The Union for Reform Judaism’s (URJ) camping
studies have established that Jewish camping plays
system is the largest in North America. More than
a vital role in the formation of a strong and proud
9,000 children and teens attend camp at 12 remark-
Jewish identity. In fact, these studies confirm that
able facilities that are designed to ensure the health,
children who attend a Jewish camp have more
safety, and well-being of our camp communities.
Jewish friends and are more inclined when they
Innovative programming ensures that campers enjoy
become adults to raise a Jewish family and to
a diverse menu of activities. From climbing walls,
become active members of a Jewish community.
to scoring points on the athletic field, to learning a new song on the guitar, to social action projects
As parents, we are constantly confronted with mak-
– campers are given opportunities to grow, create,
ing decisions that affect our children’s development
explore, and have fun! But, what makes URJ camps
and happiness. One of those key decisions is what
truly unique is the way they celebrate our Reform
our children will do over summer vacation. With so
heritage, encourage Jewish values, and nurture
many summer programming options available, the
positive Jewish identity. There is a wonderful sense
decision can be overwhelming. We ask ourselves:
of spirit and connection that can only be achieved
What is the right program for my child? Where will
when hundreds of Jewish kids come together to live,
my child learn something of value? Is it time for my
to eat, to work, to spend Shabbat together, to sing,
child to go away to camp? Will she be safe? Will he
to dance, to help others… in short, to build a vibrant
make friends? Will my child have fun? Some even
Jewish community.
ask: Will it help my child get into college? Temple Isaiah recognizes how important a URJ These are all valid and important questions. But,
summer camp experience is to our children, our
there is one more critical question that parents must
families, our community, and our future. We have,
consider: Who do I want my child to be?
therefore, made a commitment to help families become more aware of what URJ camping has to
This question cuts to the core of such critical
offer. If you’d like more information about URJ
character-development issues as values, morality,
camps, Rabbi Karol, Stephen Weitzman, or I will
and self-identity. Any good summer camp program
gladly answer any questions you have. You can also
should be able to assure you that your child will be
learn more about the positive difference a URJ camp
safe and that your child will have a myriad of oppor-
experience can make in your child’s life by visiting
tunities to learn new skills, make new friends, grow,
the URJ camps website at www.urjcamps.org
and have fun. (No matter what they tell you, there are no guarantees regarding college). But, there is
Susan Tuckman
only one summer program that seamlessly weaves
TI Camp Ambassador
the joy of living as a proud Reform Jew into the fun and excitement of camp life.
13
Come join us on Monday, May 5th at 7:30 pm for food, songs, stories, and the showing of the PBS documentary
Tour Israel with Peter Greenberg and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Admission is free.
14
in the
Annual Celebrate Israel Parade Sunday, June 1st
There will be T-shirts, flags, and banners! Everyone should come and be counted!
15
Shmoozing
with
Sisterhood
We had a really fun-filled month of April with our
Sunday May 4th
Miriam’s Seder and annual Sisterhood Shabbat
9:00
am
- 1:00
pm:
Rummage Drop-Off – Social Hall
dinner and service. We would like to profusely thank
1:30
pm
- 3:00
pm:
Sale opens for all
Julia Bennett for leading our Miriam’s Seder this year. The service was an all-new and very uplifting
Monday May 5th
celebration of the contribution of Miriam and women
10:00
during the Exodus from Egypt. Julia did a splendid
7:00
am
pm
- 1:00
- 9:00
pm:
pm:
Sale open
Sale open
job! It is always a joy to see our former Religious School students develop into poised and confident
Tuesday May 6th
young adults. We would also like to thank Paula
10:00
Plotkin for providing the ritual foods and all of you
1:00
am
pm
- 1:00
- 3:00
pm:
pm:
Sale open
Cleanup
who helped with set-up and cleanup. P.S.--Rummage helpers are always needed and dearly Our annual TI Sisterhood dinner and service was a
loved for set-up, sale support, and cleanup.
great success. Everyone’s food contributions were really delicious and we enjoyed every delectable bite!
Wednesday June 11th
We really appreciate all of Ilene Steinhauer’s efforts
Sisterhood member appreciation dinner and book
in setting up and organizing the dinner. Thanks to all
discussion – 6:00
pm
in the Social Hall
who helped out with set-up and cleanup. Sisterhood very sincerely thanks Kate Bennett for organizing
Janet Feldstein has chosen My Promised Land:
and leading the service, and Robyn DeLuca for giving
The Triumph and Tragedy of Israel by Ari Shavit,
a truly meaningful and inspiring D’var Torah. We
which won the Natan Book Award. Jeffrey Goldberg,
would also like to thank all of our members who
national correspondent for The Atlantic, wrote: "A
participated in readings, song, and prayer.
beautiful, mesmerizing, morally serious, and vexing book. My Promised Land is a remarkable achieve-
Temple Isaiah Sisterhood’s Stupendous Annual Spring Rummage Sale Begins Sunday May 4th
ment." A catered, complimentary dinner will be served
Don't forget about our rummage sale chaired by Ruth
before our book discussion.
Gerbi and our energetic volunteers. Start packing up those bags! Please drop them off at temple on Sun-
We look forward to seeing you there!
day May 4th, and plan to help sort your donations. The sale is May 4th, 5th, and 6th. Here are the
Very Sincerely Yours,
details…
Paula Bennett & Janet Feldstein Sisterhood Co-presidents
TEMPLE ISAIAH 16
3% of the cost will be donated to Mazon; a Jewish Response to Hunger.
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Breaking Bread with Brotherhood This month’s events include our last Brotherhood
If you’re not present, that means you are missing out
meeting of the year on Thursday, May 15th, and the
on the fun of Las Vegas Night, when the Social Hall
End-of-Year Barbeque held with the Religious School
becomes a casino for the evening. Games include
on Sunday, May 18th. I hope you can make it to
blackjack, roulette, best-hand poker, and the money
either or both of these events.
wheel. Please see the ad in the Bulletin for more details. Thanks to our Car Raffle committee, chaired
One of the things that I’ve always liked about Brother-
by Harold Guberman, and our Las Vegas Night com-
hood is that it is a place where you can bring ideas
mittee, led by Mike Kelson, for all their hard work.
and work to get them implemented. Most of our events, such as Las Vegas Night, and even our new-
Looking backward for a moment, I'd like to thank
est event, our Car Raffle, started out that way.
Howard Mazer for leading our annual cleanup and Dave Tellerman for teaching the Defensive Driving
Even though they take place in June, I want to talk
course last month.
about Las Vegas Night and our Car Raffle this month. The raffle has ten prizes, including a grand prize of
I look forward to seeing you at our next Brotherhood
your choice of a new Subaru Legacy that you can
meeting on Thursday, May 15th at 7:00
keep, a two-year Mercedes lease, or $15,000 cash.
will be served. As always, if you have any thoughts,
If less than 350 tickets are sold, the grand prize
ideas, suggestions, or comments, please email me
becomes a 50/50 and the other prizes will still be
at tekuates@yahoo.com or call me at 981-5128
awarded. The drawing will be held at Las Vegas Night
evenings.
and you do not need to be present to win. Tickets are available from any Brotherhood member or through
Jay Schoenfeld
the Temple office.
Brotherhood President
Chai for Chayalim
$18
for
Soldiers
Temple Isaiah's Social Action Committee is continuing its commitment to our soldiers. Please help us in our year-long campaign to support the Jewish soldiers overseas. Won’t you join us by donating $18 for this worthy cause?
18
pm.
Dinner
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Israel Committee Insights ISRAEL: THE GRAND TOUR With Israel’s Independence Day fast approaching, it’s
of the north to the deserts of the south. Together
appropriate to take time out and celebrate Israel’s
they float in the Dead Sea, take a boat through the
remarkable achievements. Despite the numerous on-
Red Sea, and raft down the Jordan River. They visit
going threats, Israel has thrived and has made so
the ancient site of Masada before traveling to Hai-
many contributions in science, medicine, technology,
fa to see the high-tech world of the Technion. The
the arts, and humanitarian efforts. In addition to
cinematography is vivid and at times breathtaking.
being a high-tech wonder, Israel is also steeped in
Admission is free. The film is sponsored by the Israel
history and beauty. From the upper Galilee to the
Committee.
Negev, and from the Mediterranean to the Red Sea, Israel is blessed with diverse and stunning land-
Rich Tuckman
scapes.
Chair of the Israel Committee dooderspa@aol.com
As part of Temple Isaiah’s Israel Independence Day Celebration on Monday May 5th at 7:30
pm,
come
join the Rabbi and the Cantor for food, stories, songs, and the screening of the new PBS documentary “Israel: The Grand Tour.” CBS News travel editor Peter Greenberg joins Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from the snow-topped peaks
Partners in Caring Counseling Available HELP FOR THOSE IN NEED Under the auspices of Partners in Caring, a UJA-
confidential short-term individual, couples, and fam-
funded program bringing together FEGS Health and
ily counseling and referral services will be available
Human Services (the region’s Jewish human services
to our members. Children, adolescents and adults
agency) and synagogues, we have the services of a
are welcome. For more information or to speak to
FEGS social worker, Janet Zimmerman, available to
a social worker, please contact Janet Zimmerman,
Temple Isaiah members. Partners in Caring brings
LCSW-R, at (631) 462-9800 ext.139 or by e-mail at
educational programs and workshops, volunteer op-
jazimmerman@fegs.org.
portunities, and projects to the synagogue. Free and
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Media Watch Israel 1. In elaborate tracking achievement, Israel seizes Iranian missile shipment to Gaza. Israeli PM
Netanyahu blasts international community's "self-deception" regarding Iran.
http://www.foxnews.com/world/2014/03/10/israel-says-confiscated-gaza-bound-rockets-had 100-mile-range/ 2. “82 US senators outline 'acceptable' terms for final Iran deal in letter to President Obama.” Letter
calls for dismantling Iran's ability to have uranium or plutonium path to nukes.
http://www.jpost.com/Iranian-Threat/News/82-senators-outline-acceptable-terms-for-Iran-deal-in letter-to-Obama-345537 3. Anti-Semitic attack on Jewish teacher in Paris condemned by mayor as betrayal of foundation of the
French Republic.
http://www.foxnews.com/world/2014/03/27/victim-savage-anti-semitic-attack-in-paris-recounts beating/ 4. Saudi Arabia denies entrance visa to US Jerusalem Post correspondent traveling with President
Obama. White House condemns, and White House Press Corps expresses outrage.
http://www.jpost.com/Diplomacy-and-Politics/White-House-press-corps-outraged-at-Saudi-visa denial-for-Post-correspondent-346499 5. “Spain invites descendants of Sephardic Jews expelled 500 years ago to return.” http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/spain/10631714/Spain-invites-descendants-of Sephardic-Jews-expelled-500-years-ago-to-return.html
Larry Weber
weberl@optonline.net
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Temple Isaiah Wish List Report We have been trying to keep the Wish List current and prominent in the minds of our congregation. The response has been wonderful. Members of Brotherhood and Sisterhood have recognized the needs expressed on the list and have paid for new security measures and a new commercial refrigerator. Donations have begun to come in for the irrigation system for our cemetery property. Wi-Fi is now available throughout the temple buildings. All of this has been accomplished without raising dues or tapping into the temple's operating budget. We owe a huge todah rabah to all who have taken an interest in this work. The following is the list of remaining projects that still need our attention: Irrigation for cemetery section I Blinds for all classrooms
$5,000
$3,000
10 rectangular tables
$950
2 rectangular table caddies
$378
10 circular tables
$1,890
2 circular table caddies
60 folding chairs
2 LCD players
$690 $1,500
$650
TV/DVD projection equipment for the Youth Building
$800
Pool Table for Youth Building
$400
Ping Pong Table for Youth Building
$100
Cork Board for Youth Building
$50
Shelving for Youth Building
$100
Please remember that we are engaged in an effort to thrive, and not just survive. Helping us to purchase any item on the wish list is a mitzvah, a tax deduction, and a way to make Temple Isaiah a better home for our families. Mort Rosen
Scouting at Temple Isaiah All scouts are invited to attend our Family Service on Friday, May 2nd. The service begins at 7
pm
and you are encouraged to wear your uniform. Please contact Howard
Mazer at 631.737.8083 for more information about scouting opportunities.
TEMPLE ISAIAH 22
23
Temple Isaiah Parents’ Association presents our annual
END-OF-YEAR BARBEQUE Sunday, May 18th from 11
am-1 pm
A ARTS & CRAFTS A FACE-PAINTING A A GAMES A BBQ A and more... Many thanks to Brotherhood for providing the food and manning the grill.
24
Please bring a non-perishable donation for the Food Pantry.
Simchas & Tzures Whether you have happy news (simchas) or sad news (tzures), we hope you will share it with us. Rabbi Karol likes to know about births, engagements, weddings, and other happy occasions, as well as hospitalizations, sicknesses, or deaths. As hospital stays are often short, and hospitals do not call us when you are admitted, please let us know so Rabbi or Cantor can arrange to visit or at least telephone. If you would like Rabbi Karol or Rabbi Fisher to officiate at a funeral, please speak to Rabbi Karol before scheduling. Our sanctuary is available for funeral or memorial services. If you call the Temple about a funeral and have to leave a message with the answering service, please mention that you are calling regarding a funeral.
Welcome New Members
Congratulations
Warren & Carol Sanderson
To Laurie & Leon Klempner on the engagement of their daughter Jodi to Jared Wolinsky
Condolences To our congregation on the death of Florence Bolatin
To June & Steven Hoffman on the engagement of their daughter Faith Ellen to Daniel Schlesinger
To Carole-Ann Gordon on the death of her mother, Terry Gordon
To Nancy & Tony Cali on the birth of their grandson, Davin Bennett Cali
Sunshine Funds It’s always the "right time" to make a contribution
Beautification Fund
to your Temple. It might be in honor of a living per-
The purpose of the Beautification Fund is to
son or a recent event, or in memory of someone or
generate money to renovate and beautify our syna-
something, or anything you want. Donations can
gogue. All monies will go into a fund dedicated to
be made over the phone, by email, or through the
this purpose.
USPS. However you send the information, your donation can be added to your monthly Temple Isa-
To assist in this goal, a wall sculpture has been
iah invoice for easy bookkeeping. Sunshine cards
commissioned. This permanent work of art pro-
require a minimum contribution of ten dollars.
vides the opportunity to commemorate your support for Temple Isaiah. Plaques of different
Minimum contribution is $10
sizes will be available in the following categories:
Prayer Book: $45 Chumash: $60 Tree of Life Leaf: $118 Pew Plaque: $500 Memorial Board Plaque: $250
CONTRIBUTOR........ $250 per year for 3 years SPONSOR................. $500 per year for 3 years PATRON................. $1000 per year for 3 years BENEFACTOR......... $2500 per year for 3 years
Please call the office for more information regarding the above contributions.
To make a contribution, or if you have any questions, please call the office at 751-8518.
25
Sunshine Funds & Other Donations Beautification Fund
Rabbi Adam D. Fisher Library
In honor of Jodi Klempner’s engagement to Jared Wolinsky Laurie & Leon Klempner
In memory of Terry Gordon Mark & Gloria Snyder Saul & Irva Steinweis Myra & Alan Rosofsky June & Steve Hoffman Tuesday Night Adult B’nai Mitzvah class In memory of Mildred Lorenz The Gowa Family In memory of Joe Lieberman Rhoda Lieberman In memory of Sidney Roth Carol & Mark Swerdloff
Cantor’s Discretionary Fund In memory of Terry Gordon Carole-Ann Gordon
Fund to Feed the Hungry In memory of Terry Gordon Bert & Marge Feldstein In memory of Helaine Michaelis Laurie & Leon Klempner In memory of Mickey Phillips The Kamen family
Israel Fund In memory of Terry Gordon The Kamen family
Cantor Trachtenberg Landscape Fund In memory of Terry Gordon Larry Lieblich & Perri Fitterman
Music Fund In memory of Ilona Gluck The Wright Family In memory of Joel Saperstein Bruce & Barbara Meyer
Rabbi Adam D. Fisher Library In memory of Terry Gordon Judy Albano Joe & Eileen Donnelly Barbara Goldberg Carole-Ann Gordon Ivan & Ilene Ensler Mark & Essie Freilach Mark & Mona Saidens David & Iris Schiff
26
(cont)
Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund In memory of Frieda Holanski Rose Block In memory of Ruth Fisher The Gerstein Family In memory of Pearl Hollander Paul Rosenthal In memory of Terry Gordon Tony & Robyn DeLuca Carole-Ann Gordon Steve & Ellen Kuhn A speedy recovery to Marshall Blum Marylin & Peter Baracks Mazel Tov to Eileen Baker on the birth of Josephine Sydelle Iris & David Schiff
Religious School Fund In memory of Terry Gordon Claire Baer Estelle “Cooky’ Block Fred & Suzan Goldhaber Steve & Bonnie Katz Paul & Marge Weiser Marylin & Peter Baracks Tuesday night Adult Ed class
Sunshine Funds & Other Donations Special Projects Fund
Vivian Kohn Fund
In memory of Rebecca Ehrlich Enid & Roy Newman A speedy recovery to Tom Wells Nancy & Tony Cali Iris & David Schiff In memory of Terry Gordon David & Sheila Silberhartz Tom & Robin Wells Mazel Tov to Nancy & Tony Cali on the birth of Davin Bennett Iris & David Schiff Mazel Tov to June & Steve Hoffman on the engagement of Faith to Daniel Schlesinger Iris & David Schiff In honor of Nancy Cali’s retirement Myra & Alan Rosofsky
A speedy recovery to Jeremy Parilla Diane & Stephen Weitzman A speedy recovery to Bella Austin Diane & Stephen Weitzman
Tikkun Olam Fund In memory of Murray Kamen The Kamen family
URJ Camp Scholarship Fund In memory of Ida Weitzman Diane & Stephen Weitzman In memory of Joseph Weitzman Diane & Stephen Weitzman In memory of Fay Kaminsky Diane & Stephen Weitzman In memory of Jerry Kaminsky Diane & Stephen Weitzman In honor of Ben Tuckman’s honesty Diane & Stephen Weitzman
Worship Fund In memory of Bernard Kamenetzky The Kamen family
Youth Group Fund In honor of Mason Gruber, Cameron Arato, Joshua Kelson, & Max Lieberman as they become B’nai Mitzvah Sisterhood In memory of Ruth Yezer Enid & Roy Newman In memory of Selma Cohen Sheila & David Silberhartz In memory of Sidney Cohen Sheila & David Silberhartz In memory of Terry Gordon Bruce & Barbara Meyer Doug & Lisa Walters Mazel Tov to Eileen Baker on the birth of Josephine Sydelle Randee Kanter & Pat Urquhart Mona & Mark Saidens Mazel Tov to Nancy & Tony Cali on the birth of Davin Bennett Mona & Mark Saidens
Renaissance Club Attention Seniors! Our Renaissance Club meets once a month at the Temple. You are invited to come, make new friends, and share your ideas for speakers, outings, and events. The next meeting is May 25th at 1:30 pm. Please call Lillian Goldstein at 862-1747 for more information.
27
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Visit our Websites for Special Offers
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Serving 3V community for over 35 years LIC. / INS. • Senior Discounts
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FAMILY WHEN FAMILY CAN'T BE THERE Assistance • Accompaniment • Transportation • Companionship
Insured & Bonded
Office (631) 751-0196 Cell (631) 807-7162
Wheelchair Accessible Van
We Can Transport Your Loved Ones To Special Occasions! Tom & Robin Wells, owners/operators phone: 631-751--0909 • email: info@wells-care.com website: www.wells-care.com
764 RT. 25A SETAUKET, NY 11733
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NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
STONY BROOK, N.Y. PERMIT #28
Temple Isaiah 1404 Stony Brook Road Stony Brook, N.Y. 11790 Forwarding Service Requested Rabbi—Stephen A. Karol Rabbi Emeritus—Adam D. Fisher Cantor—Ted Labow Cantor Emeritus—Michael F. Trachtenberg Educational Director— Rabbi Harvey Witman Temple President—Dean Rosenzweig Sisterhood Co-Presidents—Janet Feldstein & Paula Bennett Brotherhood President—Jay Schoenfeld Parents' Association Co-Chairs—Nancy Linden & Ilene Horan Youth Group Director—Joanna Schess Youth Group President—Alex Shea
(631) 751- 8518
A
www.tisbny.org
A
tisaiah@optonline.net
Bulletin Designed & Edited by Gary Kamen / Syzygy Creative Studios / www.syzygycreative.net
B’nai Mitzvah May 2014 Mason Gruber on May 3rd Son of Ross & Beth Gruber
Cameron Arato on May 10th Son of Alex & Lynn Arato
Joshua Kelson on May 24th Son of Michael & Jill Kelson
Max Lieberman on May 31st
Son of Lawrence & Ann Lieberman
Siman Tov & Mazel Tov To All!