May Bulletin

BULLETIN MAY 2021 A IYAR-SIVAN 5781

BETH TFILOH

CELEBRATING THE JOY OF JUDAISM, EMBRACING ALL JEWS

DAVENING

in a Pandemic Our Minyanaires keep our shul going!

Behind the Scenes with Actress Shira Haas SPOTLIGHT 2021: Honoring Our Teachers Keeping Our Community Connected

RABBI’S CORNER HERE FOR YOU WITH CERTAINTY IN UNCERTAIN TIMES

By Rabbi Mitchell Wohlberg

Every synagogue was confronted with a real challenge in how to deal with the coronavirus. The challenge that Beth Tfiloh confronted was a unique one, given the unique nature of our congregation: ours is a congregation that attempts to be both Modern and Orthodox; ours is a congregation made up of families that are shomer Shabbat and others that are not; ours is a congregation of some people who daven three times a day and others who daven three times a year.

In reflecting upon the past year, I believe Beth Tfiloh can take pride in how it met this challenge. Because of a pre-existing condition I have, for much of the year I stayed home and my contribution had to be limited to Zoom. Credit must be given to Rabbis Posner, Yoggev and Wecker and to Hazzan Albrecht, who were always there for services and filling other needs. It is because of them that throughout the year we never missed a minyan for davening. Over the year we offered several praying options: inside, outside and Zoom, meeting the needs of the broadest elements of our congregation. All of this was supplemented with ongoing emails, writings and educational programs in quality and quantity that were practically unparalleled. You can read more about this in our cover story, written by BT shul members and school seniors Caleb Gitlitz ’21 and Ronen Seegull ’21.

Synagogue Office Fax Schedule of Services Information Hotline

410-486-1900 410-653-0603 Dial 6, 2 410-413-2345

mail@btfiloh.org • www.BethTfiloh.com

BETH TFILOH CONGREGATION Rabbi Mitchell Wohlberg Hazzan Avraham Albrecht Rabbi Chai Posner Rabbi Dr. Eli Yoggev Rabbi Chaim Wecker, Ritual Director Don Weinapple, VP, Finance Eve Kresin Steinberg, Executive Director

And yet, to date, we are still not sure what the future will look like! In the weeks leading up to Pesach, and during the Pesach holiday, I – fully vaccinated – was able to return to services and encouraged others to do so as well. We are very strict in our safety precautions, so people know that if they come to Beth Tfiloh everyone will be wearing masks and properly social distanced. With this in mind, our attendance numbers continue to increase. Slowly but surely, attendance at our Shabbat services is no longer in the tens, and is growing.

Cherie Brownstein, Synagogue Program Director

What will be when the High Holy Days come along? Governor Hogan says one thing, and Dr. Fauci says another. We are waiting to hear from God. Until we do, we are going ahead with plans for services in our Dahan Sanctuary and in the Hurwitz Hall. Presently, we are assuming that masks and social distancing will still be required. We know that, like last year, our services – yes, including the sermon – will be shorter and more concise, but hopefully just as meaningful and inspirational.

Bess Gilden, Chair, Synagogue Life

We can’t wait to see you – LIVE!

Chana Slavaticki, Mercaz Center for Jewish Life & Learning Director Sam Bloom, Director, Beth Tfiloh Camps Dr. Ron Davis, President Louis Schwartz, Board Chair Shelley Kaye and Anne Pfeffer, Co-Chairs, Mercaz Dr. Craig Friedman, Chair, Beth Tfiloh Camps

BETH TFILOH DAHAN COMMUNITY SCHOOL Switchboard: 410-486-1905 Dr. Zipora Schorr, Director of Education Laurie Kott, Director of Admission

IN THIS ISSUE

Mandi Miller, Director of Institutional Advancement

Dates & Happenings........................................................................3

Joan Feldman, Director of Strategic Initiatives

Milestones............................................................................................4

Larry Seegull, President, Board of Trustees

Cover Feature: Davening in a Pandemic....................................6

BULLETIN

School Highlights...............................................................................8

Rina Goloskov, Director of Marketing and Communications

SPOTLIGHT 2021.........................................................................10

Erin Smith, Communications Coordinator

Philanthropy & Giving...................................................................12 Davening & Shabbat Times.........................................................16

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Allison Magat, Chief Administrative Officer

BETH TFILOH BULLETIN

Paul Miller, Graphic Designer Meredith Hill, Communications Assistant

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DATES & HAPPENINGS

Sunday, May 2, 3 pm Acclaimed Emmy and Golden Globe Award nominee Shira Haas, star of Netflix’s hit series Shtisel and Unorthodox, will be with us for an exclusive online engagement open to members only!

Hear about her surprising and amazing journey to international recognition and behind-the-scenes stories of the roles she has played.

Israeli Media, New Media: The Personal Story of an Israeli Journalist Wednesday, May 12, 7 pm

Co-sponsored by Beth Tfiloh Congregation, Baltimore, MD; Congregation B’nai Tzedek, Potomac, MD; Hollis Hills Bayside Jewish Center, Hollis Hills, NY; Jewish Federation of Madison, WI

Israeli television newscaster Sivan Rahav Meir will share her personal journey as an internationally renowned Orthodox female journalist. She will reflect on Israeli life and culture and what she learned about American Jews and Israel during her travels as a World Mizrachi Scholar-in-Residence.

Beth Tfiloh Makes Its Mark at Baltimore Jewish Hall of Fame

Baltimore Jewish Film Festival: “Shared Legacies” with Rabbi Mitchell Wohlberg & Rev. Terris King

Beth Tfiloh Congregation’s Rabbi Mitchell Wohlberg, plus shul members, leaders and supporters Leonard J. Attman, Linda A. Hurwitz and Philip E. Klein z”l will be inducted into the JCC’s Baltimore Jewish Hall of Fame.

SHARED LEGACIES VIRTUAL SCREENING WINDOW:

Thursday, May 13, 7 pm

Established in 2008, the Baltimore Jewish Hall of Fame (HOF) honors and celebrates Jewish Marylanders who have initiated and led change in the fields of science, education, business, medicine, law, politics, community service, sports, and the arts. These prominent individuals may not have been nominated specifically for their work in the Jewish community; however, they reflect the universal Jewish value of making the world a better place. Inductions are held biennially.

Tuesday, May 11-Thursday, May 13, 7 pm VIRTUAL LIVE DISCUSSION WITH RABBI WOHLBERG AND REVEREND KING via Zoom:

Wednesday, May 12, 7 pm The crucial historical lessons of Black-Jewish cooperation are revisited in this fascinating documentary. Common cause was found in the turbulent ‘60s Civil Rights era, as Jewish leaders backed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s efforts for racial equality and harmony. Pivotal events came alive through archival footage, narrated by eyewitnesses, activists, and leaders of the movement, including Congressman John Lewis, Senator Raphael Warnock, Rabbi Alvin Sugarman, Rabbi Peter S. Berg, Oscar-winning actor Louis Gossett Jr., members of the King family, and many others.

Get the Beth Tfiloh community member discount: Save $2 on your ticket purchase for this film by using the code “BTShared” when purchasing a ticket online or by phone.

For registration or more information on these events: bethtfiloh.com/shulevents MAY 2021 A IYAR-SIVAN 5781

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MILESTONES CONDOLENCES: To the Bridge family on the loss of our member, Claire Bridge.

To Dr. Ian (Rosemary) Weiner on the loss of his mother, Susan Weiner; grandmother of Jared Max Weiner ‘13.

To Iris Silverman (nee Schwartzman) on the loss of her husband, our member, Gerald Silverman.

To Dror (Vered) Mei-Tal on the loss of his mother, Aliza Mei-Tal; grandmother of Lior ‘07, Yuval ‘13 and Guy ‘19.

To the Miliman family on the loss of our member, Marcia Merle Miliman.

To the Kaufmann family on the loss of our member, Susan Linda Kaufmann (née Phillips).

To Dr. David (Anita) Schreibman on the loss of his parents, Gloria Mertz Schreibman and Dr. Julian L. Schreibman.

To David (Leslie) Goldstein on the loss of his mother, Nettie Goldstein; grandmother of Alec ‘24, Julia ‘26, and Gabrielle.

To Rachel Cohen ‘01 and Elliot Fishman (Lori Gottlieb) on the loss of their mother and sister, Helene Cohen; aunt of Whitney Fishman (Ron) Zember ‘02 and Torrey (Amy) Fishman.

To Shimmy (Batsheva) Messing on the loss of his father, Rabbi Marc Howard Messing; grandfather of Sophie ‘25, Lilah ‘27, and Judah ‘30 Messing.

To Dr. Marian (Dr. Jeffrey Chinsky) Jackson on the loss of her father, Samuel H. Jackson, grandfather of Joshua (Marla) Chinsky (‘01), Benjamin Chinsky (‘04) and Rebecca (Adam Lazarus) Chinsky (‘04).

To Sheldon (Lynne) Kruger, Melvin (Elaine) Rosenzweig, and Stanley (Ilene “Binky”) Rosenzweig on the loss of their mother and sister, Esther R. Kruger (nee Rosenzweig).

To Gilbert Ruddie on the loss of his brother, our member, Samuel Louis Ruddie.

To Dr. Henry (Dr. Rachel) Brem on the loss of his mother, Adele Brem; grandmother of Andrea (Ariel) Wolf ‘01, Sarah (Joel) Sunshine ‘04, Alisa (Jacob) Rosenberg ‘04.

To Eli (Mila) Burman on the loss of his mother, Yelena Burman; grandmother of Avital ‘19, Ari ‘21, Sarit ‘24 and Yonatan ‘26 Burman.

To Leonard (Lois) Gerstein on the loss of his brother, Robert B. Gerstein.

To Aaron Donner and Sara (Michael) Flechner ‘99 on the loss of their wife and mother, Dorothy Donner.

To Jeff (Sara) Ostrow on the loss of his father, Harry Ostrow; grandfather of Zach Ostrow ‘24, Abby Ostrow ‘24, Lily Ostrow ‘29, Jonathan (Yakira) Howarth ‘06, David (Sandra) Howarth ‘11, and Adam Gerber ‘09.

To Harold (Barrie) Smullian on the loss of his brother, our member, Ronald M. Smullian.

To Stacey (Randy) Getz on the loss of her father, Jerry Steinberger; grandfather of Sophie ‘20, Eli ‘20, Hannah ‘22 and Noah Getz.

NEW MEMBERS: We welcome the following new shul members to our Beth Tfiloh family: Benjamin Sagel, who is retired and the cousin of our member, Jeffrey Sagel.

David and Huppit Miller and their children Eliav, Gefen, and Shaya. David is a title attorney with Terrapin Title & Escrow in Owings Mills, Huppit is a food blogger, Eliav is in 3rd grade, and Gefen and Shaya are in 6th grade at Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School.

Joseph and Josie Schwartzstein and their daughter, Vida. Joseph is a Chesapeake Bay Harbor pilot; Josie is a stay-at-home mom and Vida is enrolled in BT PreSchool’s February 2’s program.

BAR/BAT MITZVAHS: Zachary Sachs ‫שמואל אפרים‬ Son of Jennifer and Michael Sachs April 11, 2021 Zachary, a 7th grader at Jemicy School, is the brother of Matthew and Benjamin Sachs, and the grandson of Marcia and Alvin Sachs, Ira and Gloria Luchinsky, and the late Diane Cohen. Zachary’s hobbies are computers and gaming, music, and hanging with family and friends. For his Mitzvah project, Zach will collect donations and items for an animal shelter.

To the Friedman family on the loss of their father and our member, Philip “Pinny” Herman Friedman; uncle of Deborah Baer, Gloria Greenspun, and Myles Friedman; brother-in-law of Sara and Art Shanker.

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MAY 2021 A IYAR-SIVAN 5781

Aliza Chana Sobol ‫עליזה חנה‬ Daughter of Jen and Benny Sobol May 2, 2021 Aliza is a 6th grader at Jemicy School in Owings Mills. She is the sister of Davene Sobol, and the granddaughter of Isaac and Ethel Gheiler, and Iris Sobol-Bloch and Charles Sobol. Her hobbies are dancing, singing, and experimenting in the kitchen.

Aliza enjoys going to school and camp and loves to make new friends. Aliza completed several mitzvahs as part of her Bat Mitzvah program: she participated in a Challah Bake with her B’nai Mitzvah class, called a senior in the BT community during Covid, connected with an Israeli teen who lost a parent in the IDF, and made lunches for the homeless in Baltimore City.

Halle Stern ‫חוה מאירה‬ Daughter of Audra and Ari Stern May 23, 2021 Halle is in the 7th grade at Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School. She is the granddaughter of David and Barbara Schwartz, and Milton and Barbara Stern.

Her hobbies are reading, writing, drawing, and nature hikes. For her Mitzvah project, Halle participated in community and street clean-ups, cleaned the grounds of Baltimore Humane Society’s animal cemetery, donated 11.5 inches of her hair

to a charity for children with long-term or permanent hair loss, babysat virtually for a kindergartner during Covid to give his mother a break from home schooling, called home-bound seniors during Covid, connected with an Israeli teen who lost a parent in the IDF, and made lunches for the homeless in Baltimore City. In the spring she will clean up trails at the Irvine Nature Center and plant native flowers in their meadow.

To Ali and Michael Kleeman on the birth of their son, Lev Shlomo (Leo Samuel); grandparents Sherri and Gary Kassimir; great-grandparents Ina and Jeffrey Legum, and the late Claire and Al Kleeman.

Rina Eva Kelly

‫רינה חוה קלי‬

Daughter of Ed and Nonny Kelly May 30, 2021 Rina is a 6th grader at Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School and is the sister of Yoni Kelly ‘24. She is the granddaughter of Edward and Joan Kelly, and the late Leon and Sara Spotts. Her hobbies include painting, basketball, and volleyball. Rina participated in several mitzvahs as part of the Bnai Mitzvah program at Beth Tfiloh, including writing letters to seniors in the BT community to keep in touch with them during Covid, connecting with an Israeli teen who lost a parent in the IDF, and making lunches for the homeless in Baltimore City.

SHARE YOUR NEWS! Have a new member of your family? A special occasion? Share the good news with your BT family! Contact Eve Kresin Steinberg, Executive Director, at esteinberg@btfiloh.org and share your information about your celebration.

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BIRTHS:

SHAVUOT SCHEDULE

Times are subject to change. Please check our website for updates.

Erev Shavuot, Sunday, May 16 Candlelighting: 7:56 pm Mincha/Shiur: 8 pm Maariv: 8:50 pm Shavuot, Day 1, Monday, May 17 Shacharit: 9:15 am Mincha/Maariv: 8/8:15 pm Candlelighting: 8:58 pm Shavuot, Day 2, Tuesday, May 18 Shacharit: 9:15 am Yizkor: 11 am (check website for location) Mincha/Maariv: 8/8:45 pm Yom Tov ends: 8:59 pm

View Shavuot programs at bethtfiloh.com/shavuot BETH TFILOH BULLETIN

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C

The outdoor minyan restored davening to its

ovid struck in late 2019, sending much of the world into massive lockdowns in the following months that created hardship and uncertainty. In March 2020, this mysterious and threatening virus reached our own doorstep. Following the guidance of local and national health experts, as well as our own team of medical advisers, Beth Tfiloh Congregation leadership made a historic decision – to shut our shul doors to keep our community members safe.

As society went virtual, BT did the same.

For many, Zoom was a safe way for BT Congregation members and clergy to daven together and remain connected during the pandemic. Although we were halachically limited by not being able

traditional form, allowing attendees to finally respond to Kedusha, and also allowed mourners to say Kaddish for the first time in months. scenery, some congregants felt they were able to enhance their kavanah (concentration). Abbe Zuckerberg, who mourned the loss of both parents over the past two years, agreed that “it felt really good to have found a way to fulfill this obligation again.”

Despite a few technical newbie glitches, the outdoor minyan restored davening to its traditional form, allowing attendees to finally respond to Kedusha, and also allowed mourners to say Kaddish for the

masks, seats were marked off to provide social distance; siddurim and chumashim were regularly sanitized (and still are); and Rabbi Chaim Wecker received most of the aliyot to the Torah. Additionally, services were modified for brevity — Pesukei D’zimra was to be said at home, singing was reduced, and the sermon slot was much shorter.

“The first Shabbat indoor davening was most rewarding — even with the abbreviated schedule,” said

DAVENING

By BT High School senior interns Caleb Gitlitz ’21 and Ronen Seegull ’21

to say Kaddish and other parts of the service without an in-person minyan, BT implemented innovations such as increasing learning dedicated to the memory of loved ones, as well as a virtual musical pre-Kabbalat Shabbat. Frank Boches, a minyannaire who regularly attended daily services before the pandemic, reported that he has had a “great experience with Zoom for Mincha and Maariv. [I] connected with a number of people that I know.”

Once BT leadership determined it was safe enough to resume services outside, they gradually established a parking lot minyan over the summer for weekdays.

“As I recall, it was breezy!” Keith Kanter said. As the outdoors provided beautiful

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first time in months. Rabbi Chai Posner expressed how tremendous a blessing it was to be back, stating that it was “the most inspiring davening of my life,” and almost worth missing those three months “just to come back.”

By the end of June, our staff felt it was safe enough to reopen indoor Shabbat services indoors. In addition to wearing

Dr. Allan Zarembski, who also attended daily minyan in the parking lot before the building reopened. Rabbi Jeff Ifrah appreciated Beth Tfiloh’s ability to provide a safe davening environment: “Either davening outside or at home . . . BT did an amazing job at being able to effectively compensate for Covid.”

MAY 2021 A IYAR-SIVAN 5781

“The first Shabbat indoor davening was most rewarding — even with the abbreviated schedule,” said Dr. Allan Zarembski, who also attended daily minyan in the parking lot before the building reopened.

After getting both vaccine doses shortly following Purim, Rabbi Wohlberg got the go-ahead to return to shul. Rabbi Wohlberg’s return served as a public statement that the end to this pandemic is on the horizon and that we can begin to develop a sense of normalcy. “Rabbi Wohlberg is a tremendous scholar,” declares Rabbi Ifrah, expressing how nice it is to hear him speak again. As older members of our shul community have also received vaccinations, we have

in a Pandemic Rabbi Dr. Yoggev pointed out a silver lining of these modified services: that they enabled a more intimate davening experience. This continued throughout these hard times yet was embraced and enjoyed by our entire community. Rabbi Posner shared that people felt that being inside the Sanctuary was “really special,” and restored a sense of community.

Laurie Traub, who started attending once services began indoors, expressed immense gratitude for the physical aspect of experiencing “family, community, and being in your house of worship. [BT is] almost like a big hug.” She refuses to complain about any of the changes, as she is just “too happy that [the minyan] is happening.” We were home.

MAY 2021 A IYAR-SIVAN 5781

To maintain social connections with the community, the clergy have been reaching out to members by phone throughout the pandemic. As for the indoor Shabbat services, more social interaction has commenced outdoors as well, as attendees enter and exit services.

However, Abbe and Laurie are among those who still miss getting to sit next to friends and giving them hugs, and lingering after shul for social interactions.

Keith and Dr. Zarembski are both looking forward to the return of Shabbat morning kiddushes, once it is safe enough to restore them. Despite not being able to fully accommodate these wishes now, we hope that in the near future, as more people become vaccinated and our society becomes safer, we will be able to safely re-establish these traditional norms.

been able to welcome them back into our minyan as well. Nonetheless, Abbe Zuckerberg and Rabbi Ifrah both lament the absence of pre-Covid singing, and Dr. Zarembski still misses “the full davening — on Chag and Shabbat.”

They miss more than that though. Covid not only halted the spiritual aspects of minyan but the social aspects as well.

While Zoom cameras can be turned on during the week and you may unmute yourself and talk, it does not give off the same sense of community as does an in-person davening. Additionally, while the parking lot minyan allowed people to see one another in person, there was almost no social contact for safety reasons, as Abbe pointed out.

Caleb Gitlitz ‘21 interned with our BT clergy for his senior internship.

Next year, he will attend Yeshivat Har Etzion and then Yeshiva University’s Honors Program. Ronen Seegull ‘21 interned with BT’s marketing department. He will attend The Kelley School of Business at Indiana University next year.

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SCHOOL HIGHLIGHTS

Morah Liora Schlesinger and Mrs. Nikki Elgamil’s 7th grade girls joined Morah Lyn and Morah Julie’s PreSchool 2’s class for a virtual davening and Pesach song sing-along.

Congratulations to the Middle School cast and crew of Disney’s Frozen Jr., on their inspiring and Covid-safe musical production.

Morah Jeri and Morah Lisa’s PreSchool 4’s class “dug” learning about the Maryland state flower, the Black-eyed Susan.

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BT High School geometry students left their mark on the school, using both creative and mathematical skills to cover ceiling tiles with their custom-designed tessellation patterns.

Mrs. Jamie Karbeling and Morah Maman’s 2nd graders prepared virtual Baltimore City field trips, learning how to conduct safe online research, informative writing, and PowerPoint skills along the way.

Following the Covid safety recommendations of the National Federation of High School Sports, the BT Warriors are back in action!

BT Kindergarteners were immersed in a multisensory journey of the Pesach Seder, creating their own Seder objects and participating in a model Seder to better understand the Pesach story and the Seder’s significance.

MAY 2021 A IYAR-SIVAN 5781

Congratulations to the 35 newest members of Beth Tfiloh’s National Honor Society, who were inducted via Zoom.

BT’s NHS chapter promotes and recognizes outstanding scholarship, service, character, and leadership.

Yasher Koach to Guy Taylor ‘25, Aaron Z. ‘25, George B. ‘25, Jared R. ‘25, Andrew F. ‘25, Maya Taylor ‘22, Eagle Scout Troop 97 and the businesses that made our new outdoor classroom possible.

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BETH TFILOH DAHAN COMMUNITY SCHOOL’S ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP EVENT

SP TLIGHT 2021 Honoring Our Teachers June 3 | 8:00 pm |

Exclusively livestreamed at BTSpotlight.com FEATURING

LESLIE ODOM, JR. STAR OF HAMILTON

RSVP • DONATE • SPONSOR at BTSPOTLIGHT.com Over the past year, we have faced extraordinary challenges,

MEET THE CO-CHAIRS

reimagining our Beth Tfiloh educational experience to make

Sherry and Josh Mauer

both in-person and virtual school possible for our students

Beth Tfiloh has made a major impact on the Mauer family. Sherry grew up at Beth Tfiloh starting in Forest Park in the early ‘60s. She and her five Bormel siblings grew up at BT and were all Bar and Bat Mitzvahed and married by BT rabbis.

Sherry and Josh were married at Beth Tfiloh by Rabbi Wohlberg 29 years ago.

in the midst of a global pandemic. It hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth it!

Current Financial Aid assistance Needsthan ever before. And This year at Spotlight 2021, we will honor financial and celebrate the people who made this so we need your support like never before. possible – our extraordinary Beth Tfiloh Current Financial teachers and everyone who supported them.

Aid Needs Spotlight is our annual scholarship fundraising event which makes a Beth Tfiloh education possible for more than 50% of our students. Last year, we had to address Covid-19’s immediate financial impact on our community, and our community’s response was astonishing. Today, we are responding to the new financial reality for so many BT families, one that requires more

students receive 50%+ BTfinancial aid received 80 students first-time grants

60%

$100K

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prior recipients qualified for increased grants

emergency Covid-related grants

When it was time to select a school for their daughters, Hannah ‘13 and Olivia ‘15, Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School became their home beginning with the PreSchool 2’s until high school graduation.

“We are so appreciative for the dual-track education and Jewish values that BT instilled in our daughters,” said Sherry. “Their chosen careers – Hannah, a speech pathologist, and Olivia, a marketing account executive – are much attributed to the educational foundation, Jewish values, and work ethic they received at Beth Tfiloh.”

The Mauers are dedicated Beth Tfiloh leaders who have expressed their gratitude to BT through their extensive shul and school involvement. “Beth Tfiloh has given our family so much and we are so proud to answer the call once again,” said Josh. “When our daughters were MAY 2021 A IYAR-SIVAN 5781

MAXIMIZE YOUR GIFT TO THE BETH TFILOH SCHOLARSHIP FUND

young, Beth Tfiloh’s Scholarship Fund was there to help us. We are so blessed to now be able to give back with both our time and our donations to show our appreciation.”

Jamie and Josh Forman “BT has been a part of our lives for what seems forever,” says Jamie. “When choosing a preschool for Alyssa, who will graduate in June, there was no question where she would go as my mom was a BT preschool teacher and raved about the program.” Ryann, now a freshman, followed a few years later, as did Jamie, who has taught in the PreSchool for 13 years.

“BT has impacted our family in many ways. Both Alyssa and Ryann have received a wonderful education and have

been nurtured and supported along the way,” shared Josh. “As they learned about Jewish life and rituals, we created rituals in our home that worked for our family. As they became part of the BT community, we decided to do the same — welcoming our kids’ friends into our home, becoming great friends with many BT families, and serving on or chairing numerous BT school committees including Dreidel Shop, Mishloach Manot, Yad B’Yad, the High School committee, and Spotlight.”

Your support of scholarship at Beth Tfiloh provides financial aid for more than 50% of Beth Tfiloh students.

Ruby: $5,000+ Gold: $3,600+ Silver: $1,800+ Bronze: $1,000+ Patron: $500+

View complete sponsorship package details at BTspotlight.com * Sponsorship at these levels provides one or more full financial aid package(s) to Beth Tfiloh students.

MAY 2021 A IYAR-SIVAN 5781

Learn about other ways to maximize your support of Beth Tfiloh at

bethtfiloh.com/waystogive

The Formans know that, without scholarship support for more than 50% of BT students provided by SPOTLIGHT, the BT school community would be completely different, and many children would not have the opportunity to obtain a BT education. “We feel fortunate that our girls have had the opportunity to receive such a wonderful secular and Judaic education and feel strongly that any family who wants to send their child to BT should be able to do so.”

SPOTLIGHT 2021 SPONSORSHIP LEVELS

*Royal: $50,000+ *Crown: $36,000+ *Diamond: $25,000+ *Sapphire: $18,000+ *Emerald: $10,000+

Consider supporting Spotlight 2021 through a donor-advised fund to increase your philanthropic impact.

Donor-advised funds are a philanthropic investment account that allows donors to make a charitable contribution, receive an immediate tax deduction, and designate grants from the fund over time. If you have a philanthropic fund please consider using it to make meaningful gifts to Beth Tfiloh.

Leslie Odom, Jr. Leslie Odom, Jr. is a multifaceted, award-winning vocalist, songwriter, author, and actor. With a career that spans all performance genres, he has received recognition with Tony and Grammy Awards as well as an Emmy, and, most recently, two Academy Award nominations for his excellence and achievements in Broadway, television, film, and music. Best known for his Emmy-nominated performance as “Aaron Burr” in Hamilton, Odom currently stars and performs the songs of legendary singer Sam Cooke in the critically acclaimed Amazon film adaptation of the Olivier Awardnominated play, One Night in Miami, directed by Regina King.

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PHILANTHROPY & GIVING Keeping Our Community Connected While we miss seeing our extended BT family in person, we have found ways to keep our community connected and updated on what’s happening here at Beth Tfiloh.

GRANDPARENTING DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

included longtime congregants and school grandparents from all over the world! They schmoozed with Rabbi Wohlberg, Rabbi Posner and Dr. Schorr, were updated on Beth Tfiloh’s latest happenings, and shared what they’re looking forward to most when they return to BT in person.

ANNUAL SENIOR PANEL

Some of BT’s most loyal supporters had the opportunity to hear from nine Beth Tfiloh seniors who shared their personal reflections on their experiences at BT throughout the years — including what it has been like for them to learn and grow throughout these challenging times.

Class of 2021 members Nomi B., Noah B., Gabi D., Aviad G., Avi G., Eliav H., Margot J., Allison K., and Allison S. shared their perspectives on how BT has provided them with a vibrant and balanced education, each focusing on their personal experiences in student government, academic clubs, athletics, arts, STEM, and their rigorous preparation for college and life beyond BT. BT grandparents were given a unique opportunity to hear from David Raphael, co-founder and CEO of the Jewish Grandparents Network (JGN), who spoke about the JGN’s recent study of grandparenting during Covid-19. Seventy of our wonderful school grandparents explored the challenges and hardships this pandemic has created for families and the creative ways that grandparents have adapted, and they discovered new ways to support and engage with their grandchildren. They considered the powerful lessons to be learned from this pandemic and the importance of the extended family to our growth as a community.

UNFLORIDA EVENT

If we can’t travel to Florida, we’ll bring Florida here! Traditionally, Rabbi Wohlberg, Rabbi Posner and Dr. Schorr head down to Florida to meet up with our BT snowbirds who reside there over the winter months. This year’s event was held virtually and

Of note was the inspiring vocal performance of Gabi D., as well as Avi G.’s presentation of his awe-inspiring work developing and creating an acoustic levitation device using the latest technology provided by BT’s own STEM Center.

Director of Education Dr. Zipora Schorr and High School Principal Dr. Renee Koplon masterfully facilitated the discussion panel, providing a platform for the seniors to share their appreciation for their bonds with teachers, lifelong friendships, and their love for Judaism that was nurtured in their years at Beth Tfiloh.

“It was such a privilege to witness these thoughtful seniors reflect on their experiences, offer constructive criticism and give voice to their dreams,” said Rabbi Ron Muroff, father of four BT alumni.

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MAY 2021 A IYAR-SIVAN 5781

We gratefully acknowledge the following contributions to our Congregation & School BETH TFILOH DAHAN COMMUNITY SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Appreciation of: Dr. Zipora Schorr for her love and devotion to The Sagel Family in their time of need, by Lois and Leonard Gerstein n Dr. Zipora Schorr, by Lynn and Dr. Stuart Shindel n Shelby Kirk becoming a Bat Mitzvah and many thanks to Dr. Zipora Schorr for being a part of Shelby’s special day, by Shari and Brandon Kirk In Honor of: The Bar Mitzvah of Spencer Miller, son of Mandi and Brett Miller, by Sherry, Josh, Hannah and Olivia Mauer, Diane and Larry Seegull, Gilda and Howard Greenberg In Memory of: Sharon Schwartz, by Ann and Steve Halpern n Samuel H. Jackson, by Ann and Steve Halpern n Nettie Goldstein,

by Marcia and Alvin Sachs n Gerald Traub,

by The Blavatt Family n Samuel Ruddie,

by DeVera Gilden n Jack Eisen, by Marsha and Jay Danick n Marcia Miliman, by Harriett Kessler, Lisa & Gary Scherr, and

Suzanne Kessler n Aliza Mei-Tal, by Sherri & Layne Herman and Family n Adele Brem, by Helen Diamond BETH TFILOH RELIEF FUND In Memory of: Adele Brem, by Allison and Adam Steinmetz n Bernice Heyman, by Beth Tfiloh Lower School CHARLES CRANE AND HOWARD S. BROWN EDUCATION FUND We appreciate the anonymous donation made to this fund.

GENERAL FUND In Honor of: Shelby Kirk becoming a Bat Mitzvah and many thanks to Cantor Albrecht for being a part of Shelby’s special day, by Shari and Brandon Kirk n Phillip Levin for conducting the service for our beloved mother Edith Goldberg Zarow,

by Robin J. Michaels and Alex C. Zarow n Rabbi Wecker for his continued healing prayers and prayers for Nora, by Ruth and David Naftaly In Memory of: Nettie Goldstein, by Jennifer Heller and Joel Turner n Louis Katz, marking his shloshim, by his children Andre and Marianne Katz n Samuel Ruddie, by Carol and

Malcolm Rubenstein, Joyce and Tom Stern n Susan Weiner, by Jackie and Stuart Miller SONIA AND STANLEY GOLDBERG ADOPT-A-CHILD FUND In Honor of: Mr. and Mrs. Kent Greenberg on the engagement of their daughter, Julie,

by Dawn and Glenn Goldberg In Memory of: Samuel Ruddie, by Stanley, Dawn, Glenn, Jared, Jessica Cameron, Nora, Tyler, Stanley, Ron and Leslie Goldberg GRANDPARENTS CIRCLE OF BOOKS FUND In Memory of: Bernice Heyman, by Patty and Chuck Leve DAVID & JUDY JACOBSON HOLIDAY PROGRAMMING FUND In Honor of: Jesse Isaacson, and Renata and David Kepner with gratitude to our children during this difficult time, by Milana and Michael Isaacson n Irvin Lazinsky for his very generous donation to Beth Tfiloh Congregation n Lilah Messing, on becoming a Bat Mitzvah, by Paulayne Epstein In Memory of: Samuel Ruddie, by Evelyn, Jeff and Iris Hauser, Rob Garonzik

SUMMER 2021 AT BT CAMPS: GET READY FOR UNFORGETTABLE CAMP EXPERIENCES MONDAY, JUNE 28-FRIDAY, AUGUST 13 BIG CAMP

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MAY 2021 A IYAR-SIVAN 5781

BETH TFILOH BULLETIN

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PHILANTHROPY & GIVING WILLIE MAZER CHANUKAH LUNCH ENDOWMENT FUND In Honor of: Roslyn Mazer with wishes for good health and joy for many years, by Ellie and Andy Glass THE MERCAZ DAHAN CENTER FOR JEWISH LIFE AND LEARNING In Honor of: Les Vogel with thanks for the honor to work with you and the best of luck in your new adventures, by Jason Rubenstein STANLEY Z. PENN MEMORIAL LECTURE FUND In Honor of: Janet Penn in celebration on her new great-grandson, Elijah Maxwell Hoffman. Wishing Elijah much good health and happiness for many years, by Helene Penn ELLYN AND STEPHEN POLAKOFF SENIOR TRIP SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Honor of: Linda Freud on the birth of her grandson, Micah Kruger, by Ellyn and Stephen Polakoff In Memory of: Benton Pumpian, by Ellyn and Stephen Polakoff n Carolyn Beckman,

by Ellyn and Stephen Polakoff

RABBI POSNER DISCRETIONARY FUND: In Honor of: Rabbi Posner in appreciation of his sage guidance, by Abby Weinstock n Shelby Kirk becoming a Bat Mitzvah and many thanks to Rabbi Posner for being a part of Shelby’s special day, by Shari and Brandon Kirk PRAYER BOOK FUND In Memory of: Gerald Silverman, by Ruth and Jerry Kobernick KATRINA SAMUEL SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Memory of: Irving Berger, by Dodi and Joey Samuel n Sol Fishman, by Dodi and Joey Samuel

RABBI WOHLBERG’S DISCRETIONARY FUND In Honor of: Shelby Kirk becoming a Bat Mitzvah and many thanks to Rabbi Wohlberg for being a part of Shelby’s special day, by Shari and Brandon Kirk n Rabbi Mitchell Wohlberg for performing a lovely service for our grandson’s bris, by Sherri and Gary Kassimir In Memory of: Adele Brem, by Pat and David Bernstein n Stanley Ruddie, by Rosalie and Jerry Klotzman n Sam Shuvalsky to commemorate his yahrzeit,

by Tzipora Frager n Sylvia Pristoop to commemorate her yahrzeit, by Tzipora Frager

RACHELLE SILVERSTEIN SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Memory of: Phillip Friedman, by Ronnie Silverstein

THE EDWARD AND FAITH WOLF SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Honor of: The Bar Mitzvah of Spencer Miller, son of Mandi and Brett Miller, by Shoshi and Brian Ponczak

SISTERHOOD GIFT FUND In memory of: Evelyn Ruth Gross, by Marlene and Bruce Solomon

In Memory of: Stuart Schreiber to commemorate his yahrzeit, by Faith and Dr. Edward Wolf

THE HOLLY & STEVEN VENICK & FAMILY EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITY FUND In Memory of: Beverly Venick, by Nina and Kenny Venick

YAD B’YAD FUND In Memory of: Nettie Goldstein, by The Kelly Family n Aliza Mei-Tal, by Peter, Ilene, Mitchell, and Margot Jay, Faith and Adam Harrison n Susan Shefter, by Leah Bennett YAHRZEIT DONATIONS

BETH TFILOH SISTERHOOD JUDAICA GIFT SHOP Check out our collection of fine hand-crafted jewelry from American and Israeli artists. Ideal for your special ladies on Mother’s Day, birthdays and graduations.

Pictured here are samples currently in our shop.

Shabbat, bar/bat mitzvah and holiday items are always available.

Open by appointment.

Please call

410-484-4648

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February 2021 Celia Albin, by Leon Albin n David Albin, by Leon Albin n Louis Ashinsky, by Rochelle Louis n Sophie Baker, by Milt Baker n Arnold Barr, by Shelley Gitomer n Beverly Barr, by Shelley Gitomer n Ann Becker, by Joyce Becker n Mildred Helen Becker, by Marci Rosenbaum n Andrew Billig, by Janet Billig n Sarah Brafman,

by Marsha Grabush n Jacob Brem, by Henry Brem n Claire Cohen, by her children, grandchildren & great-grandchildren n Judith C. Coplin, by Mark Coplin n Ileen C. Dickman, by Elinda Hendin n David Dzhanashvili, by Ruth Penn n Dorothy Franklin, by Layne and Sherri Herman & family n Gerald Freedman, by Steven Bond n Hannah Friedman, by Milton Friedman n Yevgenya Friedman, by Diana Lubman n Lea Frydman, by Rachel Brem n Donald Futterman,

by Laura Samuel n Anne Gitomer, by James

MAY 2021 A IYAR-SIVAN 5781

Gitomer n Jacob Gitomer, by James Gitomer n Louis Goodwich, by Dr. Kenneth Goodwich n Florence Greenspan, by Karen Zarembski n Sonia C. Grossman, by Nina S. Grossman n Willard Hackerman, by Ted Chernak, Gwenn Eisenberg, Ronald Eisenberg n Milton Halpern,

by Steven Halpern n Jacob Hornstein, by Kenneth Hornstein n Irvin Jacobs, by Betty Jacobs Keyser n Emanuel O. Katz, by Sharon Benus n Goldie Katz, by Reba and Arnold Cohen n Ben Kowitz, by Ervin Kowitz, Joseph Kowitz n Sylvia Kramer, by Janis Kramer n Ladislas Krausz, by Rosemary Gluck Pozefsky n Philip Kravetsky, by Sonia Maltinsky n Marilyn Bolten Krupsaw, by Dr. Bruce Bolten n Sarah Landau, by Rosanne Ehrlich n Minnie Landsman,

by Ronald Eisenberg n Ruth M. Lazarus, by Lois Glassman n Jeannie Lazinsky, by Irvin Lazinsky n Yully Lubman, by Arthur Lubman n Shirley Miller, by Phyllis Brash n Sara Penn, by Ruthie Carliner, Helene Penn & family n Bernice Rabovsky, by Paula Pearl n Saul Robbins, by Dr. Solomon Robbins n Anna Rombro, by David Rombro n Jay Rosenberg, by Royce Houthuijzen n Ruth N. Rosenthal, by Richard Rosenthal n Bernard Sagel, by Dr. Jeffrey Sagel n Roy Sager,

by Mindy Dickler n Lisa Schechman, by Benjamin Schechman n Harry Schenker, by Wendy Schenker n Marion Schenker, by Donna Shapiro n Adele Schwartz, by David Schwartz, Marty Schwartz n Sarah K. Shapiro, by Donna Shapiro, Sanford Shapiro n Mikhail Rakhunov,

by Dr. Anna Zemelshtern n Elmer Robert Setlen, by Julie Wasserman n Harry Stark, by

Larry Hornstein n Lena Tulkoff, by Sylvia Tulkoff n Martin Tulkoff, by Sylvia Tulkoff n Shimmen Verstandig, by Carl Verstandig n Martha Weissman, by Sheila Jay n Zelda Zeiger, by Barry Zeiger n Isidor Zinreich, by Dr. Simion Zinreich March 2021 Leonard Aiken, by Lawrence Aiken n Freda Baltimore, by Norman DuBois n Moris Benus,

by Dr. Jacob Benus n Dorothy Berman, by Bonnie Berman n Milton Bernstein, by Dr. Benjamin Bernstein n Louis Bomstein, by Stanley Bomstein n Henry Dickman, by Elinda Hendin n Ruth Eisenberg, by Ronald Eisenberg n Nesya Goldman, by Jane Feldman n Martin Eidelman, by Gary Eidelman n Daniel Hersh Eisman, by Joan Isack n Herman Engel, by Rita Sollod n Gilbert Feinberg, by Melissa Eisner n Fannie Finkelstein, by Jack Finkelstein n Thelma Finkelstein, by Jill Eidelman n Antonina Fishman,

by Dr. Harvey Kasner n Anne Fox, by David Fox n Joseph Friedman, by Sharon Maier n Rose Wolfe Geshekter, by Dr. Charles Geshekter, Ruth Geshekter Millward n Abraham Aaron Goodwich, by Dr. Kenneth Goodwich n Sylvia R. Goodwich, by Dr. Kenneth Goodwich n Edward Gordon, by Phyllis Gordon n Gerald “Jerry” Gordon, by Alan Gordon, Helen Gordon, Emily Kishter n Morris Grossman, by Sylvia Tulkoff n Helen Haas, by Maureen Davidov n Samuel Hendin, by Barbara Rosenthal n Isidore Hettleman, by Jerome Hettleman n Joseph Harris, by Janice Bolten n Shirley Hirsch, by Tina Sheller n Edward Jay Isack, by

Steven Isack n Renee Isack, by Steven Isack n Steven Kaye, by Robert & Shelley Kaye n Azariah Kierson, by Mr. & Mrs. Kierson n Albert Klaff, by Sharon Benus n Shirley Kowitz, by Ervin Kowitz n Benjamin Kremen, by Gladys Kremen n Patricia “Poppy” Lark, by Lutz Alexander Prager n Sonia Lichter, by Harry Damareck n Jeffrey Lott, by Edward Lott, Carol Olschansky n Rose Macks, by Louise Macks n Sydney Miller, by Phyllis Brash n Leon B. Milner, by Stuart Milner n Sandy Moffet, by Jerry Moffet n Betty Mofsovitz, by Jerry Moffet n A. Leonard Mogol, by Ellen Cohen n Marian H. Needel, by Deborah Bernfeld n Louis Press, by Carol Pristoop n Sylvia Pristoop, by Dr. Allan Pristoop n Fannye G. Robbins, by Dr. Solomon Robbins n Gertrude B. Robinson, by Joan R. Friedel, Marlyn Seidman n Claire Rosenblatt, by Josef Rosenblatt n Sophia Rosenblatt, by Howard Rosenblatt n Paul Rosenzweig, by Elizabeth Levin n Barbara Samuelson, by Steven Samuelson n Herbert Sandler, by Alan Sandler n Claire Sanford, by Hanna Sanford n Lucille Schenker, by Wendy Schenker n Sarah Schenker, by Wendy Schenker n Margaret Schindler, by Stephanie Barthlow n Selina Schoenfeld, by Marilyn Rosenblatt n Regina Schreter, by Beverly Feldman n Sidney Schreter, by Beverly Feldman n Nathan Schwartz, by Louis Schwartz n Rose Schwartz,

by Jerry Moffet n Benjamin Sellman, by Alvin Sellman n Sarah K. Shapiro, by Sanford Shapiro n Carole Sibel, by Hanan Sibel n Rebecca M. Silbert, by Suzanne Fox, Brenda Nudelman n Anne Spector, by Libby Wolff n Neil Stein, by Dayna Leder n Magdalena Stern, by Michael Stern n Julius Yudin, by Henne Rapkin n Henry Zetlin, by Linda Isen Memorial Plaques: Toba Altman Rose Feit n Samuel Feit n Miriam Trieger Magat n Phyllis L. Sagel n Fern Sydney Swerdlin n Mitzie P. Cohen n Beatryce Radinsky n Adele Brem n Dorothy “Dotsie” Winegrad n

Effective May 1, all Yahrzeit notices will be sent electronically.

Any questions should be sent to Roberta Katz at rkatz@btfiloh.org or 410-413-2305

MAY 2021 A IYAR-SIVAN 5781

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Non-Profit Org U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 1262 Baltimore, MD

BETH TFILOH CONGREGATION Roz & Marvin H. Weiner Family Campus 3300 Old Court Road / Baltimore, MD 21208

Davening & Shabbat Times Shacharit – Sundays, 9 am • Monday-Friday, 7:30 am • Shabbat, 9:15 am Dates S-Th: Mincha/Maariv - Candle Shabbat Shabbat Ends

Fri.: Mincha/Kabbalat lighting Mincha/Maariv Shabbat

Parshah

Apr. 25-May 1

May 2-8

May 9-15 May 19-21 May 23-20 May 30-June 5 June 6-12 June 13-19 June 20-26 June 27-July 3

6:20/6:35 pm Friday 6:30/6:45 pm 6:25/6:40 pm Friday 6:30/6:45 6:30/6:45 pm 6:35/6:50 pm 6:40/6:55 pm 6:45/7:00 pm 6:50/7:05 pm 6:50/7:05 pm 6:50/7:05 pm 6:50/7:05 pm

7:41 pm

7:45/8:30 pm

8:43 pm

Emor

7:48 pm

7:50/8:35 pm

8:50 pm

Behar-Bechukotai

7:55 pm 8:01 pm 8:07 pm 8:12 pm 8:15 pm 8:18 pm 8:19 pm 8:19 pm

8:00/8:45 pm 8:05/8:50 pm 8:10/8:55 pm 8:15/9:00 pm 8:20/9:05 pm 8:20/9:05 pm 8:20/9:05 pm 8:20/9:05 pm

8:57 pm 9:03 pm 9:08 pm 9:13 pm 9:17 pm 9:19 pm 9:20 pm 9:20 pm

Bamidar Nasso Beha’alotcha Sh’lach Korach Chukat Balak Pinchas

Special dates: Memorial Day, Monday May 31: Shacharit at 9:00 am

Sunday, June 27/ 17th of Tammuz (fast day): The fast begins at 4:30 am and concludes at 9:20 pm.