B'nai Israel Review February 2017

February 2017 Shevat-Adar 5777

IN THIS ISSUE Contact Us

Page 2

What’s NU?

Page 3

Leadership Messages

Pages 4-5

Youth & Religious School

Pages 8,9, 11 PRECEC

Page 10

Adult Studies

Pages 16

Women’s League & Mitzvah Men’s Club

Pages 13, 17, 21

Life Cycle Events

Pages 18-19 Tributes

Pages 20 Advertisers

Pages 22-28

Volume 5777 Issue 8

Our Mission Through our congregational life, our goal is to provide the opportunity for our members and friends to experience Jewish life to its fullest. We want to transmit the ideals of Conservative Judaism to our children and grandchildren, to enable them to be knowledgeable and responsible participants in Jewish life, sensitive and ethical human beings and reliable custodians of an enduring heritage.

Through the synagogue, we want to find strength and inspiration in worship and study, in the sharing of life cycle events, in acts of caring, in reaching out to the wide Jewish and non-Jewish communities, and in concern and support for Israel.

Contact Us Rabbi Jacob Luski, D.D. 727.381.4900 Rabbi.luski@cbistpete.org

Cantor Jonathan Schultz 727.381.4900 x1005 Cantor.schultz@cbistpete.org

Pauline Rivkind Early Childhood Education Center Director Rachel Bennett 727.381.4900 x2001 preschool@cbistpete.org

Torah Reader/Facilities/Finance Bob Weinrib 727.381.4900 x1004 Accounting@cbistpete.org

Congregant Support Pam Askin 727.381.4901 officemgr@cbistpete.org Director Of Communications Hana Cowart 727.344.1017 Hana@cbistpete.org

Lifelong Learning Maureen Sechan 727.381.4900 x1011 DLL@cbistpete.org

President Susan Marger LeVine doc2roc@aol.com Women’s League Catering Livia Wein polyglatt@gmail.com USY President Danielle LeVine DanielleL3201@gmail.com

Community Engagement Liz Sembler 727.381.4900 x1007 lizsembler@aol.com

Kehilla BIKKUR HOLIM: Bikkur Holim, or visiting the sick, is one of the most important mitzvot in Judaism and is a responsibility that the clergy of B’nai Israel take seriously. We want to know when our members are ill or hospitalized. Hospitals today are very cautious about sharing patient names, even with clergy. We need you to talk directly with Pam Askin at (727) 381-4901 so clergy and your synagogue family can be helpful in times of difficulty or stress.

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What’s Nu? World Wide Wrap Sunday, February 5 at 8:30 am Every tallit has a story, every tefillin a tale. Start your story or add to the tale and "Wrap and Roll" at the Mitzvah Men's Club World Wide Wrap. Join us beginning at 8:30 am for mentoring before we daven, and enjoy a complimentary brunch together.

Guest Speaker: Chaim Bloom, Sr. Vice President of the Tampa Bay Rays.

RSVP for brunch with Pam Askin at (727) 381-4901.

Guess Who’s Coming to Shabbas?

Friday, February 17 You may have received an invitation from the congregant-hosts who are kicking off the program.

The idea is for every CBI member to be invited to another’s home during 2017 and for guests who are able to “pay it forward” by hosting a dinner of their own. Our goal is total member involvement!

Shabbat Shirah Saturday, February 11 at 9:00 am In honor of the “Sabbath of Song” Cantor Jonathan Schultz joined by the CBI choir will be including special musical selections during our Shabbat morning service.

To host or to get an invitation, contact Maureen Shacter at weinma@gmail.com or Mary Ann Marger at artmarger@aol.com.

Active Shooter Training Sunday, February 26 at 10:00 am Deputy Sean O’Brien from Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office informs us how to have a survival mindset during an active shooter situation. This event is free and open to the community, registration required at http://www.cbistpete.org/active-shooter-training

Torah Fund Dinner honoring

SANDY BRASCH 2017 JACKIE JACOBS WOMAN OF ACHIEVEMENT AWARD FOR HER YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE

CBI Scholarships for Summer Camp and Israel travel are available!

The deadline to apply is Monday, February 20th.

Please check our website or email Maureen Sechan at dll@cbistpete.org for more information.

GUEST SPEAKER: LIZ SEMBLER Board of Advisors William Davidson Graduate School of Education, Jewish Theological Seminary of America “THE FUTURE IS NOW AT JTS” TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2017 6:00 P.M. Benjamin Family Social Hall Reservations required

Save the Date Purim: Saturday, March 11 & Sunday, March 12: Megilla readings, Purim Carnival, and more

Survival in Shanghai Film and Presentation March 26 at 1:30 pm

Mitzvah Men’s Club Got Shabbat? Dinner: Friday March 24 following Kabbalat Shabbat Services at 6:00 pm

Meet Betty Grebenschikoff, author of Once My Name Was Sarah, and feature film “Survival in Shanghai.”

An advance preview of the film will follow introduction and short presentation by the author. Event will conclude with a Q & A discussion.

Passover: Monday, April 10, First Night CBI Congregational Seder

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From the Rabbi It is An Honor When Theodor Herzl prepared to open the first World Zionist Congress, the international gathering that would change Jewish history, his greatest worry was being called to the Torah the preceding Shabbat. I suspect his experience is not so different from yours. So to help allay such concerns, I offer this concise guide to enjoying the honor of an aliya.

While you may think the customs you learned in other circumstances are authoritative, I assure you that what follows is what halakha prescribes. I offer these words to assist you in fulfilling this great honor, in the “right way.”

You take the ramp up to the bima and take a seat by the Cantor. When you are called, you walk to the readers table, standing to the right of the Torah reader, unless you are the reader. You lightly touch the first word of your portion with the corner of your tallit, then kiss the corner. You grip the handles of the scroll with the column from which the reading begins. Looking away from the Torah so as not to give the impression you are reading from the text, you recite “Barkhu…” and wait for the congregation’s response. Repeat that response and continue with the first brakha.

The congregation and then the reader, unless it is you, will answer “amen.” Then, you should follow the actual reading from the Torah scroll while holding the Torah handle closest to you.

When the reading is completed, touch and kiss the last word, as before, and holding both handles again, roll closed the scroll. Recite the last brakha. When you finish, step to the right and remain in place through the next aliya.

You will be greeted with some version of “yasher koach,” to which the proper response is “barukh tih’yeh.” Greet the Rabbi, officer, and Cantor as you return to your seat.

Now, you can take satisfaction that you can have as much confidence in being called to the Torah as Theodor Herzl, the founder of modern Zionism!

Shalom,

Rabbi Jacob Luski

From the Cantor This February, we have three events that I’d like to tell you about, and also a Jewish holiday. First, I’d like to let you know that the PRTT students will be leading the Friday night service on February 10 at 6:00 pm in the CBI Chapel. Come on out and support our children as we welcome in Shabbat together.

The following day, we will have Shabbat Shirah services on February 11 at 9:00 am, featuring the CBI Choir.

This is also the anniversary of my Bar Mitzvah, and I invite all of you to come celebrate with me. I will be chanting part of the Torah reading as well as my Haftarah, and my father will also chant part of the Torah reading. I would like to thank my choir members in advance: Phyllis Werner, Mali Feld, Sarah Feld, Eve Epstein, Joan Epstein, Ellie LeVine, Mitchell LeVine, Cary Reich, and Sidney Werner.

And as if that weren’t enough, the annual Bay Area Cantorial Association (BACA) concert will take place on Sunday, February 12, 2017 at 7:00 pm at Temple B’nai Israel, 1685 S Belcher Rd, Clearwater. Presented

by Cantors and Cantorial Soloists from the Tampa Bay and Sarasota regions, this year’s theme will be “Shirat Ha’Am: Jewish Musical Gems.” Tickets are available at the door for a suggested donation of $18 each. All proceeds benefit scholarships for students of Conservative and Reform Schools of Sacred Cantorial Music. There will also be a second concert the following Sunday, February 19 at Temple Sinai in Sarasota.

This year, Shabbat Shirah also coincides with Tu B’Shevat, the New Year of the trees. Two years ago, I wrote a Tu B’Shevat article about California redwoods, with special emphasis on the fact that they’re endangered, because they were prized by the logging and lumber industries. This year, I would like to tell you about three endangered species of tree that are native to Florida.

The Four-Petal Pawpaw: a population of about 500 grows in Palm Beach County.

The Florida Yew: this small tree only occurs in a 100 square km area along the Apalachicola River.

The Florida Torreya: grows in the same small area as the Florida Yew. You may read more information about these trees on the following website: http://www.the-understory.com/2012/12/04/5-rarest-trees-in-northamerica/ Happy Tu B’Shevat,

Cantor Jonathan Schultz

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From the President

“Make new friends but keep the old; some are silver and the others gold.” As a child, this song resonated the importance of tried and true friends being the most precious of them all.

In synagogue efforts to be warm and welcoming to increase membership, it is important to meet the needs of our existing members. If you change too much in order to bring in the new, you may end up losing the core stabilizing force.

Based on our strategic plan findings two years ago, we have a committed membership who holds tight to traditional Jewish practices while reaching out to the young, the intermarried, and the unaffiliated. We love to express the beauty of Judaism through connection, ruach and spirit. We are truly a unique congregation with our twice-daily minyan, full Torah reading and our level of Kashrut. Although we provide innovative programming, we work within the framework of tradition.

Engaging our current membership is the focus of the “Guess Who’s Coming To Shabbas” program, which began the end of January. This event will be held monthly with invitation growing exponentially. Starting with families hosting on average 4-8 member guests, those guests will in turn host a new set of 4-8 guests the following month and then those guests will entertain 4-8 guests and so on and so on. In doing so, this Shabbat program provides a Havurot opportunity to connect, learn and care for one another through Shabbat hospitality. Check out the dates and jump in to host your fellow congregants: Feb. 17, March 3, April 21, May 12 or June 2, 2017. Contact Mary Ann Marger (aka “mom”) or Maureen Shacter to host or request to be hosted.

See you in Shul!

Susan Marger LeVine, President

From the Director of Lifelong Learning During winter break, I traveled to Israel - for the first time – through Partners 2Gether, a Jewish Agency initiative pairing US educators with Israeli counterparts.

Our region, Hadera-Eiron, is less than 50 miles from Tel Aviv and Haifa, near the Golan region. Hadera, established in 1893 by Zionist immigrants from Latvia and Lithuania, grew after Israel statehood in 1948 and again in the 1990s as immigrants from Russia and Ethiopia made aliya. Where Hadera was once a backwater village, it is now home to one of the largest desalination plants in Israel. Technological breakthroughs in desalination have led to a water surplus in Israel! Hadera is also home to Orot Rabin, a power plant that supplies approximately 20% of the country’s power.

While there were the usual Israel touring experiences including the Western Wall, the shops on Ben Yehuda Street, the Carmel market in Tel Aviv, delicious food (Israeli breakfasts!) and visiting museums, there were unique aspects of this trip. As part of the Partnership, American educators stayed with Israeli educators for the first part of the trip. For the first few days I stayed with the principal of Beit Sefer G’vanim. I celebrated Hanukkah with Nomi, her husband Asi, and their 10th grade daughter Gal. I stayed in Yuval’s room while she serves in the IDF. Gal and I had a great time practicing English and Hebrew as we asked each other questions –about Israeli sitcoms! As in my own home, the TV was usually on the news. Nomi and Asi translated stories, including an interview with an Ethiopian Israeli Scout discussing the difficulties of integrating into Israeli society as a minority. Asi, Nomi, and I engaged in a great deal of discussions regarding the economic and social situation in Israel, the recent UN vote, and what a new administration might mean for Israel.

On Sunday, I spent the day at Beit Sefer G’vanim experiencing the Israeli side of the Peoplehood Project our CBI children had explored. The students filled in points on a Star of David with their thoughts on a holiday, custom, personality, music, place, and symbol in Judaism. They thought it was very funny when I explained to them in Hebrew that my favorite Jewish personality was the star of the sitcom I had been introduced to the night before! There were many similarities between our kids and their Israeli counterparts, such as the symbol of the Jewish Star, the holiday of Purim, and the custom of B’nai Mitzvah. We talked a lot about what being Jewish meant to our kids and what it meant to them. They had a class discussion about whether they felt more Israeli or more Jewish, and there was mixed results from the Israeli students.

One of the amazing things I discovered during this trip? When Israeli teens who are part of the Partnership come back from a trip to the United States, they go home feeling more Jewish despite having Jewish and Israeli culture and history surrounding them all the time. Having experienced this unique trip, I can truly say that I understand!

Maureen Sechan Director of Lifelong Learning

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The Hereld Institute for Jewish Studies of The Jewish Theological Seminary proudly presents the

JTS Outreach Tampa Bay Lecture Series 30th Annual Program In partnership with Congregation Beth Shalom, Congregation Kol Ami, Congregation B’nai Israel, and Congregation Rodeph Sholom

March 19-20, 2017 with

Dr. Alan Cooper Elaine Ravich Professor of Jewish Studies and Provost, JTS

“Strange Stories about Moses’ Family” Given Moses’ stature as lawgiver and foremost of the prophets, the Bible’s inattention to his lineage is remarkable. Together we will explore some of the surprising teachings surrounding Moses’ family.

Sunday, March 19, 7:00 p.m.

Congregation Beth Shalom 1325 So. Belcher Road, Clearwater Telephone 727-531-1418

“Why Did God Flood the World?”

Several explanations for the flood have been offered including lessons of morality and human responsibility. In this session, we will study an alternative to the standard interpretation of the flood story.

Monday, March 20, 7:00 p.m.

Congregation Kol Ami 3919 Moran Road, Tampa (813) 962-6338

ALL ARE WELCOME .

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February 2014

Pauline Rivkind Early Childhood Education Center

Tu B’Shvat is here!

We are so THANKFUL for all of the FUN we get to have outside each day. Celebrate Tu B’Shvat with us this month by recycling or planting your own tree in your backyard!

Our school is expanding, call to book your tour today! Space is EXTREMELY limited.

CALLING ALL STORYTELLERS! Pauline Rivkind Early Childhood Education Center is looking for some fabulous volunteers to come read to our youngest learners.

Interested in volunteering?

Please contact PRECEC Director Rachel Bennett at preschool@cbistpete.org or 727.302.9668.

Coming up in February: Wednesday February 8: 10:30am Tu B’Shvat Field Trip Philip Benjamin Towers Wednesday February 8: 11:30am Reading with Rabbi (VPK) Tuesday February 14: 9:30am Timeless Tales’ The Frog Prince CR #3 Monday February 20: PRECEC CLOSED in observance of President’s Day Friday February 24: 10am Family Pre Shabbat CBI Sanctuary Tuesday February 28: 4:30pm PTA Meeting

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Upcoming Religious Events Special Shabbatot Cholent Kiddush and Torah Study: Saturday, February 4, at 9:00 am Shabbat morning services in the Benstock Family Sanctuary followed by a Cholent Kiddush and Torah Study, vegan and meat options will be served.

PRTT Shabbat: Friday, February 10 at 6:00 pm Join our Pauline Rivkind Talmud Torah Religious School students as they help lead Kabbalat Shabbat services on in the Grossman Family Chapel.

Shabbat Shirah: February 11 at 9:00 am In honor of the “Sabbath of Song,” Cantor Jonathan Schultz and the CBI choir will present special musical selections during our Shabbat morning service.

Carlebach Shabbat: Friday, February 17th at 6:00 pm Greet the Shabbat Bride with a festive Kabbalat Shabbat highlighting the niggunim, wordless melodies, made famous by Shlomo Carlebach.

February Federation Shabbat speaker Eric Lynn, Simha Shabbat: Saturday, February 18 at 9:00 am Join us for a special Simha Shabbat Service celebrating February birthdays and anniversaries in the Sanctuary, At 10:00 am, child care will be offered in the preschool, and Tot Shabbat in the Youth Lounge & Junior Congregation in the Chapel.

Law Shabbat: Saturday, February 25 at 9:00 am.

Honor all those in the legal and law enforcement professions at our Law Shabbat, speaker Bernie McCabe.

Tu B’Shevat, “15th of Shevat,” Hag Ha’Ilanot, Holiday of Trees, or the Jewish Arbor Day, has evolved significantly since its first mention in the Mishna. Originally, it designated the age a tree’s fruit was sanctified to the Lord (4 years) and when its fruit could be eaten and enjoyed by all (in the fifth year), with the collective birth date occurring on the 15th of the Hebrew month Shevat.

A very popular custom is to eat fruit from the seven species mentioned in the Torah: grapes, wheat, barley, pomegranate, figs, dates, and olives. In the 16th century, the mystics of Safed created a seder to explore their spiritual significance.

Planting trees is a long standing tradition for Tu B’Shevat, even before the famous JNF blue and white boxes! In 1890 Rabbi Ze’ev Yavetz led his students outside on a first planting outing to Zichron Yaakov. By 1901 JNF had embraced the tradition, and by 2014 over 240 million trees have been planted including our own CBI Parkland. In the United States, as in Israel, many people celebrate with a creative Tu B’shevat Seder, and in Israel Tu B’shevat is celebrated as an ecological holiday. PRTT students and their families will have an opportunity to do the same this year on Sunday, February 12 during Religious School!

Nurture the Wow: Tuesday, February 21, 4:30 - 6:00 pm In this series on spirituality in parenting, we will share our experiences, draw inspiration from each other, and build our community! Email Maureen for more information, dll@cbistpete.org Here’s a sneak peek at holiday activities coming up: Purim: Saturday, March 11: Megillah reading, USY grogger sale, Adult Purim Parody Contest Late night lock in, after Megillah reading, for CBI & TBE teens to set up Purim Carnival!

Sunday, March 12: Megillah reading, Young Family Purim Spiel, Purim Carnival: community fun with Temple Beth El at CBI!

Passover: Monday, April 10 First Night CBI Congregational Seder

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Women’s League of Congregation B’nai Israel invites you to attend the annual

TORAH FUND DINNER on behalf of THE JEWISH THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY OF AMERICA honoring

SANDY BRASCH 2017 JACKIE JACOBS WOMAN OF ACHIEVEMENT AWARD FOR HER YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE

GUEST SPEAKER: LIZ SEMBLER Board of Advisors William Davidson Graduate School of Education, Jewish Theological Seminary of America “THE FUTURE IS NOW AT JTS” TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2017 6:00 P.M. Benjamin Family Social Hall R.S.V.P Anita Helfand 347-2300 or anita1121@msn.com

by Tuesday, February 14, 2017 Covert: $20.00 Plus suggested donation Your check is your reservation, made payable to CBI Women’s League Donations: Contact Information: $180 – Benefactor Torah Fund Chair: Joanne Luski 347-1741 $300 - Guardian Level Torah Fund Cards: Jennifer Sternberg 391-9085 $600 - Associate Patron Special Gifts Co Chair: Marilyn LeVine 343-2196 $1,200 – Patron Assistant Gifts Chair: Vivian Lurie 391-7441

SUNDAY MORNING UNIVERSITY Our 3rd annual adult learning series held in partnership with Temple Beth-El was a resounding success! With topics as diverse as physics, music, literature and medicine, all courses were taught by professors from CBI and were attended by more than 100 people from across Tampa Bay. Thank you to Dr. Larry Green, Dr. Elizabeth Unruh, Dr. David Wein, Professor Ellen S. Podgor, Professor Stephen Cantor, and Professor Joan O. Epstein for enriching our day. Thank you to Valerie Hyman, Carolyn Isakson, Jackie Wertel, Marian Lustigman-Rooth, Fred Silverman, Joan Epstein, Cary Reich, Sheryl Sutton, Sandy Brasch, Reisha Freedman, Hana Cowart, Forrest Feld, and Bob Weinrib for giving your time and energy to make Sunday Morning University a successful event.

Sunday Morning University Committee Chairs, Liz Sembler, Janet Augenbraun, and Sheryl Sutton

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Shevat-Adar 5777 February 2017 Sun

Mon

Tue

Morning Minyan Followed by Breakfast

Sundays 9:00 am Monday - Friday: 7:45 am

Evening Minyan

Sunday Thursday: 6:30 pm

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8:30am

Mitzvah Men’s Club, World Wide Wrap Instruction, Minyan, Speaker & Brunch 9:45 am PRTT 9:45 am Gan Yom Rishon 10:30 am Rosh Hodesh Women’s Group at Eileen Richman’s Home 6:30 pm Evening Minyan

7:45 am Morning Minyan, Breakfast 6:30 pm Evening Minyan

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7:45 am Morning Minyan, Breakfast 6:30 pm Evening Minyan

7:45 am Morning Minyan, Breakfast 6:30 pm Evening Minyan

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NO PRTT NO Gan Yom Rishon Federation Thanks Week 7:30 am Yom Disney USY & Kadima 9:00 am Morning Minyan, Breakfast 6:30 pm Evening Minyan

PRECEC Closed President’s Day 7:45 am Morning Minyan, Breakfast 6:30 pm Evening Minyan

7:45 am Morning Minyan, Breakfast 4:30 pm Nurture of Wow 6:00 pm Torah Fund Dinner 6:30 pm Evening Minyan

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Rosh Hodesh Adar 9:00 am Morning Minyan, Breakfast 9:45 am PRTT 9:45 am Gan Yom Rishon 6:30 pm Evening Minyan

Rosh Hodesh Adar 7:45 am Morning Minyan, Breakfast 6:30 pm Evening Minyan

7:45 am Morning Minyan, Breakfast 4:40 pm PRECEC PTA 6:30 pm Evening Minyan 7:00 pm Board of Trustees

9:00 am

Mitzvah Men’s Club World Wide Wrap Sunday, February 5 8:30 am Mentoring Minyan, Followed by Complimentary Brunch Guest Speaker: Chaim Bloom, Sr. Vice President, Baseball Operations for the Tampa Bay Rays

Federation Community Celebration Sunday, February 19 Tzedakah Fest Family Fun: 12:30 – 2:30 pm Community Campaign: 1:00 – 3:00 pm

Morning Minyan, Breakfast 9:45 am PRTT 9:45 am Gan Yom Rishon 12:00 pm Shalom Club & Kadima Tu B’Shevat 6:30 pm Evening Minyan 7:00 pm Shirat Ha-ama: Jewish Musical Gems Bay Area Cantorial Association Concert at TBI

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7 7:45 am Morning Minyan, Breakfast 11:00 am Torah for Seniors at PBT 6:30 pm Evening Minyan

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

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7:45 am Morning Minyan, Breakfast 4:30 pm PRTT 5:15 pm Intro to Judaism 6:30 pm Hebrew High 6:30 pm Evening Minyan

7:45 am

Morning Minyan, Breakfast 10:00 am Library Committee 6:30 pm Evening Minyan 6:45 pm Choir Rehearsal

7:45 am Morning Minyan, Breakfast 6:00 pm Kabbalat Shabbat 5:55 pm Candle Lighting

Sedra Bo 9:00am Shabbat Services, Cholent Kiddush & Torah Study 10:00am Learner’s Service 12:30 pm Minha*

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7:45 am

Morning Minyan, Breakfast 10:00 am Library Committee 6:30 pm Evening Minyan 6:45 pm Choir Rehearsal

7:45 am Morning Minyan, Breakfast 6:00 pm PRTT Kabbalat Shabbat 6:01 pm Candle Lighting

Sedra B’Shallah 9:00 am Shabbat Shirah, Tu B’Shevat, Shabbat Shirah Services, CBI Choir & Kiddush 12:30 pm Minha*

7:45 am Morning Minyan, Breakfast 11:00am PRECEC Storytime with Rabbi Luski 12:00 pm Lunch with Rabbi Luski and Mishna Study 4:30 pm PRTT 5:15 pm Intro to Judaism 5:30 pm Haftarah Class 6:30 pm Evening Minyan 6:30 pm Hebrew High 7:00 pm Talmud Class

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7:45 am

Morning Minyan, Breakfast 10:30 am CBI Hadassah Book Club 4:30 pm PRTT 5:15 pm Intro to Judaism 5:30 pm Haftarah Class 6:30 pm Hebrew High 6:30 pm Evening Minyan

7:45 am

Morning Minyan, Breakfast 10:00 am Library Committee 6:30 pm Evening Minyan 6:45 pm Choir Rehearsal

Guess Who’s Coming for Shabbas?

7:45 am Morning Minyan, Breakfast 5:30 pm Tot Shabbat Experience & Dinner 6:00 pm Carlebach Kabbalat Shabbat 6:06 pm Candle Lighting

Sedra Yitro 9:00 am Federation Shabbat, Speaker Eric Lynn, February Simha Shabbat Services & Kiddush 10:00 am Learner’s Service 10:00 am Child Care & Junior Congregation 12:30 pm Minha*

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7:45 am Morning Minyan, Breakfast 4:30 pm PRTT 5:15 pm Intro to Judaism 6:30 pm Evening Minyan 6:30 pm Hebrew High 7:00 pm Talmud Class 7:00 pm Haftarah Class

9:00 am

7:45 am Morning Minyan, Breakfast 10:00 am PRECEC Pre-Shabbat Celebration 6:00 pm Kabbalat Shabbat 6:10 pm Candle Lighting

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Morning Minyan, Breakfast 10:00 am Library Committee 6:30 pm Evening Minyan 6:45 pm Choir Rehearsal

Sedra Mishpatim/Shekalim 9:00 am Law Shabbat, speaker Bernie McCabe, Services & Kiddush 12:30 pm Minha*

*Shabbat Minha will begin approximately 45 minutes after the conclusion of morning services 15

Adult Studies & Special Events ROSH HODESH WOMEN’S GROUP SUNDAY, February 5, 10:30 am at the home of Eileen Richman, facilitator Liz Sembler.

RSVP to Eileen at speechgodess@gmail.com or by calling (727) 492-4509. A light brunch will be served. As always, lively participation and discussion will follow!!

TORAH FOR SENIORS WITH RABBI LUSKI TUESDAY, February 7, 11:00 AM PHILIP BENJAMIN TOWER Rabbi Jacob Luski meets for monthly Torah discussion at Philip Benjamin Tower.

TALMUD MAD EASY: Wednesday February 22nd at 7:00 pm. Join us as Steve Wein continues his bi-weekly class studying Talmudic text along with selected commentaries. All materials are provided. The class involves both textual analysis and lively discussion and is open to all. The class is free and no previous knowledge is needed.

LUNCH WITH RABBI AND MISHNA STUDY WEDNESDAY, February 8, 12:00 NOON, CBI ATRIUM Deli lunch and Mishna Study with Rabbi Luski meets monthly on Wednesdays at noon in the Atrium. Submit your lunch order by Tuesday, February 7 to Pam Askin at 727.381.4901 or officemgr@cbistpete.org CBI-HADASSAH BOOK CLUB Wednesday, February 15, 10:30 AM, CBI LIBRARY Good news for those who like to sleep in: we'll be meeting a little later at 10:30 am until further notice.

Please join us for lively and intellectual discussion at the CBI library. Note the two new selections at the bottom of the list.

We still don't have a volunteer to facilitate the April and May meetings. Consider stepping up. We are a mostly selffacilitating discussion group needing someone to keep us on topic. You can prepare as much or as little as you prefer.

2/15/17 One last thing before I go by Jonathan Tropper; Facilitator: Sheila Wasserman 3/15/17 Fault Lines by Nancy Huston; Facilitator: Carolyn Isakson 4/19/17 to be announced 5/17/17 to be announced

CBI Learners’ Service Shabbat Mornings 10:00 a.m. -11:30 a.m.

February 4, 2017 Join us to unravel the meaning, structure, and choreography of the traditional Shabbat morning prayer service.

If you’ve ever wondered why we say certain prayers, or even why we pray; if you’ve been confused during services, or even checked out at times; come learn with us how to decipher individual prayers and create a worship practice that is meaningful and inspirational to you. Each service will be led by either Jay Kauffman, Liz Sembler, or Steve Wein, and each will focus on one aspect or section of the service during a condensed Shacharit, Torah and Musaf service. This is a chance to learn how to pray in a low-key, non-threatening environment. These sessions will enable you to feel more comfortable and integrated when you join the main service in the Sanctuary. The ability to read Hebrew is not required.

Survival in Shanghai Film and Presentation March 26 at 1:30 pm Meet Betty Grebenschikoff, author of Once My Name Was Sarah, made into feature film “Survival in Shanghai.” Shanghai received more than 25,000 Jewish refugees from Europe during the Shoah. This film represents the largest action taken by Chinese television media to find Jewish refugees and their descendants who survived Shanghai Ghetto. An advance preview of the film will follow introduction and short presentation by the author. Event will conclude with a Q & A discussion. Refreshments will be served.

The Learner’s Service will be held on February 4, February 18, March 4, March 18, and April 1.

Please let Liz know if you plan to attend any or all of these sessions. Call the synagogue at 381-4900, ext. 207 or email Liz at lizsembler@aol.com.

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Mitzvah Men’s Club

Women’s League FROM THE JUDAICA SHOP CREW....

All are welcome to the “GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH”. On February 5, SUPER BOWL SUNDAY the Mitzvah Men’s Club will sponsor the World Wide Wrap. We will show you how to wrap yourself in Tefilin. Learners should be here at CBI at 8:30 am and the service starts at 9:00 am. Be part of the big picture, Men, Ladies and children of all ages can participate. It’s a great Mitzvah.

Thank you for your support for Hanukka Shopping the Judaica Shop way!!! We did it through having Hanukka hours and CBI office support.

Let us remind you that we have a complete line of ceremonial items, gift items, jewelry, mezzuzot, kosher parchments, candleholders, tallitot and much more. Remember we special order and gift wrap.

On February 26, 2017 the Mitzvah Men’s Club will sponsor a breakfast for the whole community to hear from the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Department on “What to do if there is an Active Shooter in the area” like at the airport and the club in Orlando. The program is free to the community but we would like a RSVP so we can feed all who attend with a continental breakfast.

Call us for an appointment....

Diana Litt.............392-5554 Anita Helfand......347-2300 Eileen Richman....393-6430 WOMEN'S LEAGUE SHABBAT WL Shabbat was a huge success. The services were delightful and many of our women participated. We do have a talented group of ladies. The dinner under the chairmanship of Joan Redisch and catered by MEZE 119 and Dean Hershkowitz was delicious. Reisha Freedman deserves accolades for coordinating the services.

March 24th & 25th is Men’s Club Shabbat. Dinner on Friday night will catered and the Kiddush on Saturday morning will be outstanding.

Down the road……...

TORAH FUND DINNER Joanne Luski is chairing this event and we are reminding you that it will take place on Tuesday, February 21, 6:00 pm. The invitation was mailed and we are thrilled that Sandy Brasch will receive the Jackie Jacobs' Woman of Achievement honor. The cost of the dinner is $20.00.

There are many gift opportunities available as we support the JTS. Liz Sembler will be our guest speaker and she will speak on "The Future is Now at JTS." We look forward to seeing you at this event.

April involves the Passover BBQ and the building of the Kotel in the social hall.

Phil Redisch

BUNS FAMILY LIBRARY

WL wishes our CBI family a Happy, Healthy New Year!

New books come to the Library on a regular basis. Feel free to stop by, see our new selections and check out some great books. The Library is open for browsing during regular synagogue hours, except when there is a previously scheduled meeting in that location. You may ask for the key in the CBI office.

Contact Anita Helfand at 343-2300 or Carol Marger at 345-0433 if you have suggestions or questions.

With warm wishes, Anita Helfand

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Life Cycle Events In Memoriam Sonya Miller, z’l Sister of Marilyn Benjamin

Births

Marcelle Miller,z’l Mother of Barbara (Michael) Noonberg

Marius Samuel Atri Parents Daniela & Isaac Modiano Grandparents Rachel & Jimmy Atri Great-grandmother Ana Masri

May God comfort the families among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.

Leo Burton Watson

INTO GOD’S HAND I COMMIT MY SPIRIT

Parents Sara Beth & Seth Watson Grandparents Ed & Vivian Lurie; Linda Knolle

The Solitary Flame of the Yahrzeit light is a silent tribute to the preciousness and eternity of the human soul.

Attending services, reciting Kaddish, and contributing to tzedakah are appropriate ways to commemorate your loved one’s memory.

Engagements Ellie Kremer and Aaron Lieberman Parents Henry & Lori Kremer, grandmother Mirla Kremer

If you are interested in purchasing a permanent Memorial Plaque and having it placed on our Memorial Wall, please contact Pam Askin at 727.381.4901 or

Wedding Noah Silverberg & April Hensley Parents Ed Silverberg; Shelly Silverberg Grandmother Jane Silverberg

Nachas & Simhas

B’nai Mitzvah

Congratulations to

Bar Mitzvah of Jonah Tecktiel Son of Rabbi Brad & Susan Tacktiel, Grandson of Jack and Irma Mayer

Jordan Tralins Finalist for the WEDU Be More Inspiring ”Rising Star” Award for her work with The Arc Tampa Bay Foundation

Bar Mitzvah of Ilan Yonah Kohan Son of Keyvan & Stephanie Kohan

Congratulations to

Steve Warren and Diana Sager

Bat Mitzvah of Mollie Gould Daughter of Matthew & Dara Gould

Recipients of the Israel Bonds’ Israel69 Award at the International Prime Minister’s Club Dinner

Celebrate your February Birthdays and Anniversaries at Simha Shabbat on Saturday, February 18 at 9:00 am.

Junior Congregation & Tot Shabbat are at 10:00 am.

Do a Mitzvah, Make a Minyan!

Your special simha is a wonderful opportunity to attend one of our twice-daily Minyan services.

See the calendar on Pages 14-15 for service times.

Etz Chaim Tree of Life Looking for a special way to honor family and friends?

Celebrating a Simha?

BUNS FAMILY TREE OF LIFE is just the answer. What a joy it is for someone to walk into our shul and see a tribute in honor of his/her Bar or Bat Mitzvah, special birthday, anniversary, or wedding.

Order forms are in the synagogue office and lobby.

Minimum donation $254

It is a tree of life to those who uphold it.

Proverbs 3:18

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February Birthdays & Anniversaries Birthdays 1 2 2 3 4 5 6 8 8 9 11 12

Masha Ronay Edward Ginsberg Dolores Diamond Joe Fuchs Marv Bartell Michael Noonberg Alma Hirsch Fredr Geffon Terri Gross Carol Epstein Edward Bailey Marilyn Goldberg

11 12 12 13 13 14 14 14 15 16 16 17 19

Lynn Ober Patricia Adelson Ellen LeVine Eileen Richman Marian Lustigman-Rooth Bryan Greenberg Lea Sandler Beverly Sherman Rony David Dean Hershkowitz Starr Silver Livia Wein Mark Howard

21 23 24 24 25 25 27 27 27 27 28 28

Jeff Litt Sarah Feld Charlotte Goldberg Marcus Oginsky Vivian Neumann Mark Sokolov Chaim Bloom Rosalind Litt Eric Pastman Robert Weiner Millie Gelfond Beverly Levine

Anniversaries 5 7 10 11 14 17 17 19 26

Bruce & Mary Ann Marger Alan & Laney Kay Lou & Yollette Frey Ben-Ami Braun & Anita Braun-Luria Joe & Diana Rosin Ben & Yael Alpert Robert & Sheryl Sutton Frank & Kathy Mendelblatt Tom & Carol Epstein

Support Shabbat Kiddush Lunch Our Shabbat Kiddush luncheons have become a staple of the past year.

Rather than rushing home to eat lunch the CBI community has enjoyed additional time after Shabbat morning services to socialize with friends and make new acquaintances. These lunches have encouraged the Mitzvah of participation in the Shabbat Minha Minyan. They have provided an additional opportunity for those saying Kaddish. Please help your Kehilla continue what has become a beloved part of the CBI Shabbat experience. To contribute to or sponsor a Kiddush luncheon please contact: Livia Wein at 727-393-3289 or email at polyglatt@gmail.com

COME TOGETHER March 26-28 Join and fellow members of Congregation B’nai Israel in our nation’s capital for the most important days affecting the US-Israel relationship.

Our advertisers make the B’nai Review possible.

Please support them too!

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Donations & Tributes Buns Technology Fund Kathleen Buns

In Memory Of Robert Campbell

Gail Warren Leadership Fund Laurie & Marc Reiskind

In Honor Of Sondra Levin’s Birthday

Jacobs Beautification Fund Debbie & Richard Blanchard Debbie & Richard Blanchard

In Memory Of Ed Reiskind Sally Cohen

Mitzvah Fund Karen & Cary Reich Karen & Cary Reich

Sherri Frogel Marilyn Benjamin Marilyn Benjamin Henry Maller Claire Geller Kolchetski Deborah & Marc Gallanter Gloria Weinberger Judy Ackerman Adele Morris Reva & Leslie Pearlstein Karen & Cary Reich Mavis & Mike Wallace Julia & Mark Wolfson

In Honor Of Josh Ludin’s Engagement Sarah Silverberg’s Performance In Appreciation of Wendy Levine Birth of Levi Feinman Laurie Reiskind’s Honor Joanne Luski’s Honor Anita Helfand’s Birthday Birth of Levi Feinman Selma Gaby’s Birthday Pam Askin’s Birthday In Memory Of Sarah Daneman Helen Appelfield Ed Reiskind Lorraine & Allan Maller Sally Cohen Don Silverberg Don Silverberg Don Silverberg Don Silverberg Theodore Pearlstein Don Silverberg Don Silverberg Abe and Harold Wolfson

Chase The Dreidel Chase the Dreidel 5K

Reisha Freedman

Laurie & Marc Reiskind Mavis & Mike Wallace Marilyn Benjamin Marilyn Benjamin Laurie & Marc Reiskind Laurie & Marc Reiskind Laurie & Marc Reiskind Liz & Greg Sembler

Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund Charlotte & Harold Goldberg Charlotte & Harold Goldberg Diana & Art Jay Lee & Marv Leibson Anita Sher Anita Sher Helen Kahan

My family and I were deeply touched by your kind expressions of sympathy and comfort following the recent passing of my dear parents, Abraham and Rose Luski. We were privileged to have them with us for for many years. Our memory of these years are indeed a blessing to us.

With sincere appreciation, Shalom, Rabbi Jacob Luski and Family Lou Bader Louisa & Mark Benjamin Marilyn Benjamin Monty Bennett Joan & Jerry Benstock Susie & Ira Berman Ellen Bernstein Debbie & Richard Blanchard Esta Blaxberg Steve Bloom & Charlene Wygodski Billie & Morry Bornstein Dorothy Bowser & Elizabeth Unruh E.M. & Mary Ruth Bumgarner Kathleen Buns Sherrie & Brian Carroll Judith & Alan Cohan Pat Cottrille Sheryl & Larry Feinman Barbara & Irwin Feinman Reisha Freedman Yollette & Lou Frey Hannah Freid Millie & Lenny Gelfond Ed Ginsberg Charlotte & Harold Goldberg Linda & Jack Goldfarb Judi & Mark Gordon Linda & Steve Grau Vera & Larry Green Myra & David H Gross Aracelli & Alan Gross Terri & Jay Gross Pati & David Gross Ann Haendel Lorri Helfand Anita Helfand Dean Hershkowitz Alma Hirsch Arlene & Michael Hurwitz Sheila & David Hutman Valerie Hyman Myrna & Lawrence Irwin Carolyn Isakson Sandy & Sam Janofsky Diana & Arthur Jay Ellen & Joel Goetz, Jo-Els Helen Kahan Jackie & Barry Kanner Malina & Meni Kanner AudreyKopelman Mirla Kremer Ruth Lebowitz Pam & Moe LeCompte Meisha Leibson Marilyn & Morrie LeVine

In Honor Of Their 67th Anniversary In Memory Of Don Silverberg Don Silverberg Don Silverberg Don Silverberg Otto Weiskoff Coleman Kahan

Donations & Tributes as of January 23, 2017

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Ricki & Mark Lewis Judy & Mark Ludin Vivian & Edward Lurie Shelley Lynn Norma & Ron Maller Mary Ann & Bruce Marger Bebby & Arthur Marlin Ana Masri Ruth Mauer Irma & Jack Mayer Adele Morris Stacy & Bruce Orloff Lois & Peter Pardoll Chandaye & Eric Pastman Reva & Leslie Pearlstein Helen & Ben Pertcheck Anita & Harold Pollack Randi & Bennett Rabin Joan & Phil Redisch Reich Family Eileen Richman Zina & Martin Rosenblum Diana & Joseph Rosin Myrna & Murray Rubin Susie & Alan Schwartz Sharron Scott Joyce & Harold Seder Liz & Greg Sembler Betty Sue & Joel Shane Jan & Craig Sher Bev Sherman Jane Silverberg Fred Silverman Sandy & Mike Slomka Debbie& Mark Sokolov Shirley Sommella Jennifer & Bob Sternberg Rita & Ben Thomas Robert Tropp Mavis & Mike Wallace Rachel & David Wein Claire Weinstein Cindy & Bob Weisberg Linda Weiss Leslie & Mitchell Weiss Phyllis & Sid Werner Karen & Michael Wetmore Jean Giles Wittner Mary Wygodski Claire & Ron Yogman

THE WOMEN’S LEAGUE JUDAICA SHOP Our Judaica Shop has many items for your home or gift-giving pleasure. Remember, we gift wrap and take special orders. We have an array of items for all the holidays including Hanukka, and Pesah. If you are a Mah Jongg enthusiast, we have several gift items.

Please call us for an appointment.

To volunteer, please call Diana Litt, 727.392.5554, Eileen Richman, 727.393.6430 or Anita Helfand, 727.347.2300

MITZVAH GRAM!

Join us in wishing Mazal Tov! to members celebrating their birthdays, anniversaries, and B'nai Mitzvah. Your good wishes can be part of their memories, while at the same time supporting CBI's commitment to help our schools, youth groups, and kehilla through your donations to our Mitzvah Fund.

Circle the names of everyone you want to honor with a Mitzvah Gram. Send this form together with a check made out to CBI to: CBI c/o Kesef Accounting Services, PO Box 159 Montvale, NJ 07645. You can also donate online at cbistpete.org/donate.

We request a minimum donation of $10 per acknowledgement.

Your Name: ______________________________________________________________________ Address: _____________________________________ City:____________________ Zip: ________ Telephone: _______________________________________________________________________

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NEW BOOKS IN THE BUNS FAMILY LIBRARY Halachic Rules Relating To The Blind R234TOI A Night Of Watching, Elliott Arnold FARN Danish Underground 1943 Tales Of The Hasidim, Later Masters, Martin Buber - 284BUB The Dignity Of Difference: How To Avoid The Clash Of Civilizations, Rabbi Jonathan Sacks - 170SAC Zalata’s Diary: A Child’s Life In Wartime Sarajevo, Zalata Filipovic T948 The Israel Secret Service, Richard Deacon - 953.5DEA Seventy and One Tales For The Jewish New Year: Folk Tales For Festivals, 398RUS The Talmud And The Internet, Jonathan Rosen - 231.01ROS Henrietta Szold, Nachum T. Gidal BSZO Tree Of Souls: The Mythology Of Judaism ( National Book Award Winner), Howard Schwartz - 398.2SCH The Complete Guide To Yarmulke Design, Ricky Wolbrom - 746WOL Just Say Nu: Yiddish For Every Ocassion, Michael Wex - 488.3WEX The Book Of Blessings: New Jewish Prayers, Marsha Falk - 262FAL

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