The Message

The Message

Congregation Beth Yeshurun August 2019

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From Rabbi Sarah Fort

Recently I started back at work after maternity leave following the birth of my son. When I was on leave, people would ask, “How are you doing?” I would often answer, “Tired!” I was busy, too. Being a new parent is hard work! I wasn’t busy the same way I was when I was working, but I was working hard. Partly because I had to constantly care for this tiny creature who couldn’t even hold up his own head. But mostly because I was in a time of physical, mental, and emotional recovery from the life-changing event of giving birth. Time to adjust to a “new normal” as a family of three. I wasn’t “working,” but I was certainly doing hard work!

The Torah teaches this very lesson: you can’t work and work and work the land, without a break. The break is important, its own kind of work—the work of resting. Of readjusting. Re-calibrating. Letting the land rest, the Torah teaches, will result in crops growing threefold.

Practically speaking, it makes good agricultural sense.

Growing up in Virginia, we learned about crop rotation in school (native Virginian George Washington innovated crop rotation!). You can’t simply work the land endlessly.

Sometimes you have to plant something different than your cash crop in your field. Something that would actually enrich the earth with depleted nutrients. So that when you put your cash crop back in, it would grow like gangbusters.

Even better than before.

doing a hobby, or just lazing around with your kids or spouse or pets. The pull of emails is strong. I get it. But take the time to truly rest, spend time doing things you love with people you love. You will find that, like the land that flourished after a break from constant planting, you’ll return to your work enriched, refreshed, and ready to plow on.

But the Torah lesson isn’t important on the off-chance we happen to be farmers. It’s a metaphor for ourselves.

Sometimes we, too, need to lie fallow. Like taking parental leave to re-calibrate life with a new baby. It’s not like going to the office every day. But it’s very important, hard work!

Even if your ‘new baby years’ are well behind you, you need to take time to “lie fallow.” Right now we’re in the middle of summer. Prime “lying fallow” time! Most of us The Torah teaches this. We are to farm our land for six are bad at this: stepping back, taking time out. We feel the years. Plowing, sowing, harvesting—like normal. In the need to be busy with work all the time, even on vacation. seventh year, we let the land rest. No plowing, sowing But truly being on vacation—taking leave, taking a break— harvesting. Can’t prune back growth. Just let the land sit is important work! It allows you to re-calibrate. Get back in there. Lie fallow. touch with the things that enrich your soul—being outside,

I am so blessed to have had the time to rest and re-calibrate to life as a new mom. I’m rejuvenated and excited to come back to work as your rabbi!

Congregation Beth Yeshurun

We Value Our Members Beth Yeshurun is a community institution with a vital mission: to offer spiritual experiences that inspire and uplift all ages, to educate children and adults, and to provide a setting in which Judaism can be joyously lived and experienced.

The Message Vol. LIV, No. 12

Interested in Joining? Our synagogue welcomes people of the Jewish faith and their families to make Beth Yeshurun their spiritual home. Mindi Stern, our Director of Member Relations, (713.666.1881) is here to welcome everyone interested in becoming part of our beautiful congregational family.

Rhona & Bruce Caress Family Campus 4525 Beechnut St.│Houston, TX 77096-1801 713.666.1881│www.bethyeshurun.org August 2019│Tamuz-Av 5779

Do You Have a Question about Your Membership? Members who may have special needs, whose family situations have changed or who have questions about their membership in the synagogue will find a responsive and empathetic ear by arranging a visit with Mindi Stern, our Director of Member Relations, (713.666.1881).

The Message of Congregation Beth Yeshurun (USPS 968-

500) is published monthly August-July by Congregation Beth Yeshurun, 4525 Beechnut, Houston, Harris County, TX 770961801. Periodical Postage Paid at Houston, Texas.

Postmaster send address changes to Congregation Beth Yeshurun │4525 Beechnut│Houston, TX 77096-1801.

Front Cover Photos Want to see your picture on the cover?

Make sure to tag Beth Yeshurun when posting!

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Follow Us Online! Beth Yeshurun is an active and engaging congregation for members of all ages and backgrounds. To learn more about our ongoing and special programming, visit our website (www.bethyeshurun.org) or follow us on our Facebook page under “Congregation Beth Yeshurun.“

AROUND THE SHUL MENSCH OF THE MONTH

MAZEL MOMENTS

Rae Gerson is our extremely deserving initial recipient of the AroundTheShul Mensch of the Month. For many years, Rae has been known around the synagogue as a strong family woman, devoted congregant and hard worker.

But many folks don’t realize that she has long been a regular volunteer at Houstonarea hospitals where she provides patients a friendly face, a warm shoulder, a comforting ear, and genuine companionship during what is unquestionably a very challenging time in their lives.

Series debut, Window To Yesterday: The Swordsman, by Beth Yeshurun member Jeff Lefkowitz is fun, thought-provoking, and historically accurate. What if… buried deep inside your brain were eyewitness memories of events that changed history? Memories of what your own great, great -- too many to write -- grandfather or grandmother saw and did when they were young. It is available on line at Amazon at amzn.to/2VdBz7A or in our gift shop.

CBY Congregant Steve Levine recognized for His 40 Years as a Publisher in Houston with a Congressional Recognition, a Proclamation from the Mayor (himself) Designating June 10th as "Steve Levine Day" in Houston, and an Olympic gold medal from a Paralympian from the 2012 London Olympics.

In 1965, the Jewish Chaplaincy program was established in Houston as patients were traveling from around the world to see famed Drs. DeBakey and Cooley and others. Its mission is to offer support to these patients and let them know the Houston Jewish community cares about them. Rae immediately responded “Heneini” (here I am!) and knew right away the chaplaincy program (now run by Jewish Family Service) was the right place for her. For over three decades, she has been a welcomed regular around the halls of MD Anderson Cancer Center and has chaired its Christmas Day Lunch for patients and their families for the past 25 years.

Jewish Chaplaincy has become a family affair as Rae’s children and grandchildren have joined her in this rewarding volunteer work for many years.

Michelle Petras and Larry Flick, daughter of Ellen & Michael Petras, on their recent marriage.

Congratulations to Steven Sheldon on his new position as Director and Senior Wealth Advisor at Mariner Wealth Advisors.

THE JEWISH EXPERIENCE

While in Montreal in June, we decided to take the Jewish Food Tour (called “Beyond the Bagel”), hosted by the Jewish Museum of Montreal. In addition to hitting the two well-known Montreal bagel makers, St. Viateur Bagels and Fairmont Bagels (and learn about the differences between Montreal bagels and NY bagels), we went to a bakery established by Hungarian Jews in the early 1900s, as well as a bakery established last year by a Jewish pastry chef who wanted to bring something new to the community. Of course, we had to sample Montreal’s famous “smoked meat sandwich” at Schwartz’s (which tasted a lot like corned beef) and the “Wilensky Special”, a simple sandwich they have been serving at Moe Wilensky’s since the 1930s. As we walked between stops, we learned about the history of Jewish immigration to and settlement in Montreal in the 20th century, and discussed Montreal’s thriving Jewish population today. Photos and article by Congregant: Paul Strug

A member of Beth Yeshurun for almost 69 years, Rae and her husband Buddy are native Houstonians and have three wonderful children, nine loving grandchildren (and six more by marriage) and nine great-grandchildren with another on the way. Our synagogue is so fortunate to have the Gerson family as part of our congregation. In sharing her volunteer passion, Rae quotes Ralph Waldo Emerson who once wrote, “It is one of the beautiful compensations of life that no person can sincerely help another without helping himself.” Mazel Tov to Rae Gerson, AroundTheShul’s first Mensch of the Month. In honor of Rae, Rabbi Strauss will be making a donation from his discretionary fund to the Jewish Chaplaincy program.

THE SCHTICK A man is circling an office building, late for a meeting that could change his life. But he can’t find a place to park. He says: “God, if you get me a parking space I promise I will keep kosher. I will be better to my wife and children. I will attend services on Shabbat. I will …”

Just at that moment, a spot opens up right in front of the building.

“Never mind,” he says, “I’ve got it, I’m good.”

Please send all nominations and ideas to aroundtheshul@bethyeshurun.org Only submitted material will be considered for publication.

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It’s a Mitzvah

Interested in sponsoring a Chapel Minyan weekday breakfast, or a Chapel or Museum Minyan Shabbat Kiddush in memory of your loved one or in honor of a simcha? Please contact Eileen Pettigrew, Food Service Manager, at epettigrew@bethyeshurun.org or 713.666.1881, ext. 368. Sponsorships will be acknowledged in The Message. Standard breakfasts begin at $120 and kiddushes begin at $145. Special meals may be arranged with the Food Service Department and monthly sponsorships are available.

All sponsorships must be paid in advance. Dates will be reserved in the order they are received.

IN MEMORY OF Ruth Marie Adler by Jim S. Adler Anna Garsh Asarch and Ruth Grund Rubin by Tom and Bobbi Asarch Joseph Cweren & Abe Cweren by The Family of Gerson Cweren Neil Greene, by Lu and Robin Dorfman Milton Levit by the Benjy & Erica Levit; Lee Levit Family Ivan Marine by Sheryl Levin Leo Schwartz by Newton Schwartz Henry Spira by Ginger Kaplan

Coming to See Us?

The Synagogue Office is open Monday through Thursday from 8:30am to 5:00pm, and Friday from 8:30am to 4:00pm.

While members and guests are always welcome to visit with our clergy and staff as needs arise, we encourage members to make an appointment first, if at all possible, so that we can make sure you receive the time and attention you both require and deserve.

The next YES Group will meet: August 21, 2019 RSVP by August 14th to Riana Sherman at rsherman@bethyeshurun.org or call 713.666.1881

CLOSURES Administrative Offices September 2nd - Labor Day September 30th - Rosh Hashanah (First Day)

In need of Support?

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Our Clergy want to be with you and help you deal with life’s many challenges.

If you have a death in the family, a loved one is in the hospital, or need a get well prayer for someone special, contact the synagogue at 713.666.1881 so that our Clergy can be a source of strength and support.

Worship Services FRIDAY EVENINGS

August 2, 2019 Parashat Mattot + Mas’ei | CL 7:55pm 6:00 PM - Shabbat Renewal Service 6:45 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel August 9, 2019 Parashat D’varim | Shabbat Hazon | CL 7:49pm 6:00 PM - Shabbat Renewal Service 6:30 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel August 16, 2019 Parashat Va-Ethannan | Shabbat Nahamu | CL 7:43pm 6:00 PM - Shabbat Renewal Service (College Student Send-Off Shabbat) 6:30 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel August 23, 2019 Parashat Eikev | Shabbat Mevarekhim Hahodesh | CL 8:06pm 6:00 PM - Shabbat Renewal Service (BYDS Installation Shabbat) 6:30 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel August 30, 2019 Parashat Balak| CL 8:04pm 6:00 PM - Shabbat Renewal Service 6:30 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel September 6, 2019 Parashat R’eih | CL 8:00pm 6:00 PM - Shabbat Renewal Service 6:30 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel

SATURDAY MORNING

8:30 AM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel 9:15 AM - Museum Minyan Service 9:30 AM - Sanctuary Service 10:15 AM - Shabbat Shalom 11:45 AM - Torah Study

SATURDAY EVENING SERVICES

August 3, 2019 | 7:45 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel August 10, 2019 | 7:30 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel August 17, 2019 | 7:30 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel August 24, 2019 | 7:15 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel August 31, 2019 | 7:15 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel September 7, 2019 | 7:00 PM - J.B. Greenfield Chapel

WEEKDAY CHAPEL SERVICES

Week of August 11th Mornings: Sun 8:00am, Mon-Fri 7:00am; Afternoon/Evenings: Sun-Thu 6:30pm Week of August 18th Mornings: Sun 8:00am, Mon-Fri 7:00am; Afternoon/Evenings: Sun-Thu 6:30pm Week of August 25th Mornings: Sun 8:00am, Mon-Fri 7:00am; Afternoon/Evenings: Sun-Thu 6:30pm Week of September 1st Mornings: Sun-Mon 8:00am, Tue-Fri 7:00am; Afternoon/Evenings: Sun-Thu 6:30pm 5

Wisdom of Torah with Rabbi Brian Strauss Tuesday Mornings, 8:00am Resumes August 27th Together, over breakfast, we will explore the ancient wisdom of Torah and how it can be applied in today’s modern world. All are welcome!

INTEREST FREE LOANS AVAILABLE Hebrew Free Loan Association of Houston (HFLA) is able to provide immediate assistance in the form of a confidential, interest free loan. Loans are provided for various items including emergency funding.

To apply for a loan, visit www.hfla.net.

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Cemetery Chapel Ground Breaking Sisterhood Honey Cake CBY Open House Tish’a B’Av Tish’a B’Av Sisterhood Open Meeting CBY Socials College Student Send-Off Shabbat BYDS Meet the Teacher BYDS First Day BYDS Installation Shabbat High Holidays 101 Wisdom of Torah Resumes B’nai Mitzvah Orientation Sisterhood Challah Bake CBY Offices Closed - Labor Day CBY Open House

Every Tuesday: Wisdom of Torah with Rabbi Strauss at 8am Resuming August 27th Every Wednesday: Meditation & Israeli Dancing

100 Jewish Men is a group of men dedicated to improving themselves and each other as men, fathers, husbands, brothers, sons, friends and Jews. Through controversial, thought-provoking speakers and small group discussions, we will explore what usually remains unspoken in men’s lives at work and at home. We have an incredible year planned and we hope you choose to be part of it.

OUR 18TH YEAR OF PROGRAMMING KICKS OFF WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH THANK YOU TO OUR STEERING COMMITTEE! Wayne Arzt, Reid Friedman, Eric Gibbs, Nir Grossman, Benny Herzog, Ryan Kagan, Paul Katz, Mark Newman, Marty Peskin, Michael Schwartzberg, Bill Schwartz, Jerry Selzer, Jeremy Sorkin, and Michael Wiesenthal.

All dinners at 7:00 pm followed by programs at 7:30 pm.

Register online or by check. Programs are open to members and non-members Financial Assistance is available - Please contact Rabbi Strauss.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 - JERRY GREENSPAN - AIPAC - 2020 ELECTION Jerry Greenspan joined AIPAC in March 2012; today, in his role as Regional Political Director, Jerry works day-in and day-out to increase pro-Israel political participation in the Southwest. A life-long Texan, Jerry is responsible for educating candidates and members of Congress throughout the 7-state region. Prior to joining AIPAC, Jerry served as Chief of Staff, Legislative Director and Campaign Manager for a Texas State Representative, and was active in both state and local Houston politics.

Jerry will discuss the upcoming 2020 Presidential & Congressional elections and their impact on the U.S.- Israel relationship. Jerry will also discuss how AIPAC approaches candidates for office and how anyone concerned with the safety and security of the US and Israel should also consider engaging in the political process.

2019-2020 Dates

Register & pay online at bethyeshurun.org/100JM or submit this registration form, along with a check payable to Congregation Beth Yeshurun, to

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13 | TOM KOCH WESER Head of Analytics with the Houston Astros

Beth Yeshurun attn:Rabbi Brian Strauss 4525 Beechnut St. Houston, TX 77096

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11 | SCOTT SONENSHEIN Professor of Management at Rice University "What Does the Condition of our Lawns Tell Us About our Most Important Endeavors in Life?"

Registration Cost*: $110/CBY Members; $125/Non-CBY Members *Financial Assistance is available - please contact Rabbi Strauss.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8 | BOB GOMEL Internationally known photojournalist who’s created images of world leaders, athletes, entertainers, and major events

100 JEWISH MEN 2019-2020 REGISTRATION

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13 | RABBI ELIE SPITZ “Mensch-Making: Refining the Traits You Most Admire.”

Name_______________________________________ Billing Address________________________________

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11 | CONSTABLE ALAN ROSEN Harris County Precinct 1 Constable “Keeping our Families Safe”

City/St/Zip___________________________________ Contact Phone #_______________________________

SUNDAY, APRIL TBA 15th Annual Men’s Mock Seder

E-Mail_______________________________________

WEDNESDAY, MAY 13 | DEB NEUBEK Assistant Chief for Human Systems Engineering & Integration Division for NASA “Will We Really Put Humans on Mars?”

Optional Scholarship Donation $ ____

CBY Member __ CBY Non-Member __ 6

M arsha

E

Loring

Congregation Beth Yeshurun Member

Broker Associate 713.550.7722 marsha@graciousathome.com www.graciousathome.com

johndaugherty.com

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Family Album

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Lisa & Alan Lipman Sue & Stuart Jacobson Andrea & Steven Fradkin Rina & Elias Camhi Helaine Gordon & David Mincberg Bonnie & Jerry Winograd Elizabeth & Frank Karkowsky Jacqueline & Max Monheit Terry & Bruce Merwin Janis & Lawrence Odensky Patti & Michael Morgan Jennifer & Mark Sondock Patricia & Lawrence Reichstein Julie Riggins & David Edelstein Irene & Alexander Wolchansky Cheryl & Stanton Moldovan Alison & Joaquin Altenberg Andrea & Boyd Nash-Stacey Dianne & Marc Magids Wendy & Ira Bleiweiss Susan & Bruce Hurta Sara Esquenazi & Stewart Kalterman Maureen & Larry Wainer Amma & Jared Grodin Stephanie & Nir Stanietzky Minna & Julius Hochstein Mardi & Mark Kunik Susan & Jeffrey Raizner Debbie & Mark Gottesman Patricia & Guy Bobkoff Barbara & Thomas Asarch Ahuva & Solomon Stopnicki Rochelle & Edward Middleman Eileen & Burt Skolnik Meredith & Mark Sakowitz Sarah & Eric Gibbs Hannah & Michael Hofrichter Cela & David Cukierman Mona & Kenneth Bloom Harriet & Jack Babchick Susan & Jeffrey Penn Linda & Ronny Abramson Rhea & Joseph Greenbaum Iris & Nathan Caplovitz Joyce & Arthur Dauber Marlene & Melvin Palla Geraldine & Bernard Woolf Patricia & Chad Sweeden Cynthia & Robert MacLeod Deborah & Reuben BarYadin Donna & Harry Price Pat & John Flatowicz

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Celine & David Hecht Estelle & David Simchowitz Diana & Ronald Hecht Sheryl Levin & Avner Ramu April & Albert Hiller Elena & Yury Potylchansky Janice & David Gerber Holly & Steve Radom Rhoda & Allen Clamen Adi & Oren Lutfak Jill & David Siller Myrna & Marvin Cohen Barbara & Samuel Sakowitz Cantor Diane Dorf & Rabbi Steven Morgen Diane & Mitchel Levy Arlene & Gary Lassin Jennifer & Ben Cowan Elaine & Melvin Kapell Andrea & George Forbes Susan & Michael Bloome Elissa & Tom Varadi Diane & Alan Levin Thelma & Seth Harwood Ellen & Abram Rosenberg Jean & Micah Kessler Linda & Nelson Block Barbara & Jonathan Baliff Ruth & Jack Alpert Lisa & Matthew Kornhauser Norma & Stanley Siegel Sharon & Abe Charski Esther & Forrest Fox Brenda & Edward Yosowitz Lori & Ben Herzog Ellen & Michael Petras Sandra & Kenneth Kopel Susana & Isaac Johary Marlene & Alan Finger Lea & Chaim Steinberg Beth & Mendel Nock Janet & Thomas Mcculloch Susan & Melvin Cweren Jessica & Joel Levine Shirley & Marvin Rich Marilyn & Arthur Klein Ethel & Benard Nelkin Wendy & Andrew Bernstein Katie & Benjamin Dillon Phyllis & Ronald Miller Amy & Segev Zadok Dori & Adam Goldman Rachel & Michael Saghian Eleonora & Bryan Leibman

CONDOLENCES The congregation extends its sincerest condolences

to the families of: Bonnie Gordon Cohen, Jack Fink, Khaya Gandler, Alvin Gurin, Frances Leff, Jacob Lefkowitz, Daniel Adam Rosen, Mervin Rosenbaum, Sheila M. Sacks, Jacqueline Samuelson, Moses Hyman Schimmel, Carl Waldman May their memories be for a blessing.

A Notice About Bereavement Communications

Bereavement notices for our synagogue family are distributed with the permission of the deceased’s family, and the timing of these notices is dictated by the family’s request. Of course, each family grieves in its own way, and we are grateful for our congregation’s patience and understanding with different families’ preferences about how their loss is publicized.

B’nai Mitzvah

Jenna Kiara Weitz (August 2-3) is the daughter of Shelley and Paul Weitz; sister of Noah, granddaughter of Berenice Angel and Michael Angel (of blessed memory), and Una Weitz (of blessed memory) and Tibor Weitz, of Johannesburg, South Africa. Jenna is a graduate of Beth Yeshurun Day School.

Jenna will be going into 7th grade at The Emery/Weiner School where she participates in theater, choir, music and lacrosse. Jenna loves the performing arts and enjoys playing chess. For her mitzvah project, Jenna chose her love of dogs to raise money for the Israel Guide Dog Center. She set up a dog walk at Evelyn’s Park and a booth where she gave out materials and made Dog paw necklaces which she sold to raise money for the program. Jenna also donated books to Books between Kids. Jenna will also participate in the Rabbis 10% plan by donating a portion of her monetary gifts to the American Heart Association in memory of her Uncle Jeff and Uncle Larry, and to the Houston Humane Society. Jenna is truly honored to have her family and friends from near and far to share in her simcha.

Join Rabbi Strauss and Cantor Finkelstein for a

MANDATORY B’NAI MITZVAH MEETING August 27, 2019 at 7:00 pm Freedman-Levit Sanctuary for Families with a B’nai Mitzvah August of 2019 – June of 2020

Julia Mae Miller August 30-31) is the daughter of Stuart Miller and Laina and Read Hammond; sister of Alex Miller; step-sister of Claire, Caroline, and Trey Hammond; granddaughter of Donna and Arthur Miller of Houston and Laurie and Leonard Reinsmith of The Woodlands. Julia attends The Emery/ Weiner School. For her Mitzvah Project, Julia is preparing Shabbat boxes for patients at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center.

Julia will also participate in the Rabbi’s 10% plan by donating a portion of her monetary gifts. Julia is excited to share this simcha with her lifelong friend Emmy Brounes.

Emily “Emmy” Blair Brounes (August 30-31) is the daughter of Barbara and Ron Brounes; sister of Zoe; granddaughter of Helen and Pincus (of blessed memory) Brounes of Houston, Texas, and Libby and Walter Hachenburg (both of blessed memory) of Miramar, Florida. Emmy is currently a seventh grade student at The Emery/Weiner Middle School where she plays tennis, basketball and volleyball and participates in theater. For her mitzvah project, Emmy used her passion for sports to bring fun and joy to children and adults with special needs; she participates in both the West University Challenger baseball program and the JCC Sports Stars basketball/soccer program. Emmy will also participate in the Rabbi’s 10% plan and donate a portion of her monetary gifts to support research for cancer and Alzheimer’s. Emmy is excited to celebrate her Bat Mitzvah with her relatives and many friends.

Sabrina Aubrey Blinderman (August 16-17) is the daughter of Viki and Jay Blinderman; granddaughter of Sharyn and Barry King, who reside in Houston; and Marilyn and the late Sam Blinderman, from Fort Worth. The week following her Bat Mitzvah, Sabrina will be entering the 2019/2020 school year as an 8th grader at The Emery/Weiner School. For her Mitzvah project, Sabrina has been working with Kids’ Meals, which delivers free, healthy meals, year-round to the doorsteps of Houston’s hungriest preschool-aged children.

She is participating in the Rabbi’s challenge and will donate 10% of her monetary gifts to charity, with a portion going to Kids’ Meals.

Please contact Sara Cohen Kaiser at 713.255.8005 or skaiser@bethyeshurun.org, for your submission deadline to list your Bar/Bat Mitzvah student’s parents, siblings, grandparents, school, and Mitzvah Projects.

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5780/2019 HIGH HOLY DAY FAMILY CHOIR Dear Families, It is hard to believe that the summer is just begun and I am already focused on the High Holy Days, the Freedman/Levit Service and the Family Choir. If you have ever considered being part of the choir, this is definitely the year to do it. There are significant changes being made and it is always fun to be part of something new.

DETAILS MATTER. No matter how small, every detail that is important to you is important to us.

With thorough and compassionate attention, we take care of the details so that you can focus on taking care of each other.

Through the years the family choir has grown to include parents and children and will participate in services in the Freedman/Levit Sanctuary. This year again, the Freedman/Levit Contemporary High Holy Day service will be led by Rabbi Sarah Fort and myself with Judy Yambra leading the choir, but only on Erev Rosh Hashana, September 29 and Kol Nidre, October 8. The day time service will change and the Family Choir will lead the congregation in Barg at different times during the day, both on Rosh Hashana, September 30 and Yom Kippur, October 9.

In addition, the choir will also be an integral part of the teenage Mincha service later in the afternoon on Yom Kippur day in the Barg Sanctuary.

Syd Waldman, CFSP

Certified Funeral Service Practitioner Funeral Director / Owner

WE SERVE OUR FAMILIES FROM OUR HEART. Extraordinary Service. Compassionate Care.

713-875-4811

www.WaldmanFuneralCare.com Affiliated with Hardin Family Funeral Home Chevra Kadisha of Houston Approved

It is our plan to hold an initial rehearsal on Sunday, August 25th from 4:30 pm-6:00 pm. If it is impossible for you to attend, please let me know your intentions and I will see you the following rehearsal, which will take place on Wednesday, August 28th from 6:307:30. Typically, we meet for 1 ½ hours on Sundays and 1 hour on weekdays. Most of the rehearsals will take place in Stein Hall. You will be notified of changes and we will confirm all rehearsals by email after the first rehearsal.

If you are interested, call Beth Yeshurun at 713666-1881 or e-mail me at asondock@aol.com and leave your name, the number of people who will be participating and your phone number. I look forward to seeing you on August 25th.

Annette Sondock, Freedman/Levit Contemporary High Holy Day Service 10

4525 Beechnut Street | Houston, Texas 77096 Rhona and Bruce Caress Family Campus www.bethyeshurun.org

YOM KIPPUR - SHEMINI ATZERET - PASSOVER – SHAVUOT 5780

With the approach of the High Holy Day season, we recall the everlasting attachments to our beloved relatives and friends who have departed. We remember the bonds of kinship and friendship that linked their lives to ours.

IN MEMORIAM is dedicated in reverent and grateful tribute to the loyal and courageous pioneers of Traditional Judaism, whose names will be forever enshrined in our hearts and in the annals of Beth Yeshurun.

To ensure that the IN MEMORIAM book is printed and ready for distribution all names to be memorialized must be submitted on the form below to arrive in the synagogue office by Friday, September 6, 2019. Names received after September 6, 2019 might not be printed in the memorial book, but will be included on an addendum sheet.

A minimum contribution of $18.00 per name is suggested. Your generosity in increasing your last year's contribution will be greatly appreciated. A separate form is necessary for each contributor.

New Option: Pay and complete this form online – www.bethyeshurun.org/highholydays bethyeshurun.org/yizkor Please PRINT the names to be remembered (in alphabetical order): 1)

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REMEMBERED BY___________________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS: _________________________________________________________________________________ DAYTIME PHONE NO: ___________________________________________________________________ AMOUNT OF CONTRIBUTION: $______________________ For Office Use Only

Additional names may be added to the back

Date Received ____/_____/______

Questions: Please contact Jennifer Sutton at 713-666-1881 x 315 jsutton@bethyeshurun.org

Check #________________

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The Gathering Place provides a free of charge loving, safe and fun environment for care partners experiencing memory loss due to Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, stroke or other forms of dementia.

THE MOLLIE AND LOUIS KAPLAN MUSEUM OF JUDAICA

The Gathering Place meets once a month, at Congregation Beth Yeshurun.

The meetings combine physical movement, socialization, music, and other memorystimulating activity in a safe and comfortable 3 1/2 hour time block, enabling caregivers to attend to their personal needs without worry.

A professional staff member attends each Gathering Place to provide expert support and assistance to the volunteers. The Beth Yeshurun Sisterhood is a proud suporter of the Gathering Place.

For more information please contact our coordinators: Lillie Hurwitz at lilliehur@gmail.com or Hedy Spiegel at hedy1234@aol.com bethyeshurun.org/gathering-place

Pause before you enter the Freedman Levit Sanctuary this Shabbat, and look at the wall to your right to find this magnificent wood panel from the 17th century, a particular favorite in the Mollie and Louis Kaplan Museum of Judaica. It is a depiction of Jacob blessing Joseph’s sons (Genesis 48).

This scene is the basis for the blessing that Jewish parents traditionally make over their boys on Friday night, "May God make you as Ephraim and Menashe." Faithful to the biblical text, we see an aged Jacob struggling to rise up in bed, with Joseph hovering attentively over the scene.

The artist has succeeded in portraying Jacob's eyes as being dim. Joseph has placed Menashe, the elder, at Jacob's right hand to receive the principal blessing, and Menashe at Jacob's left to receive the secondary blessing. Jacob knows that Ephraim is to receive the primary blessing, so he crosses his hands, placing the right on the head of Ephraim and the left on the head of Menashe.

In an attempt to create the appearance of an ancient scene, the artist has dressed the characters anachronistically in fanciful Roman cloaks and medieval Teutonic helmets. The background shows an interior that might have been typical for the 17th century in northern Europe. The use of perspective is heightened by the lines separating the floor tiles.

A pet dog has been added in the left foreground.

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TISHA B’AV

A few years ago, I read a piece by an Orthodox rabbi, Rabbi Nathan Lopes Cardozo, about the fast day of Tisha b’Av, the 9th of Av, in which he expressed gratitude for the miracle of modern Jerusalem and the State of Israel, and what a relief they Rabbi Horwitz represent after two thousand years of often bitter exile and persecutions. And he asked: “How can I go to synagogue where the reader chants Eikhah (Lamentations) to a heart-rending tune, telling me that I am living in a city that has been destroyed and consists of rubble?” True, Jerusalem was destroyed, her gates made desolate. But that is not only past tense. In fact, Rabbi Cardozo lives in the rebuilt Jerusalem. And he describes the reading of Eikhah as a slap in God’s face, as it were, denying the truth of God’s new Jerusalem!

Tisha B’Av SERVICE SCHEDULE

SATURDAY, AUGUST 10 Mincha/Maariv at 7:30 PM

SUNDAY, AUGUST 11 Shacharit at 8:00 AM Early Mincha at 2:00 PM Regular Mincha/Maariv at 6:30 PM

THERE’S STILL TIME FOR HONEY!

While Rabbi Cardozo has a serious point, he also acknowledges that all of it can be destroyed in a moment. That also is a truth that we confront on Tisha B’Av. The current crisis in the relationship between our country and Iran reminds us that Israel is smack in the middle, and vulnerable to powerful blows if war breaks out. Similarly, we American Jews are generally prosperous, but the attacks on synagogues in the past year have been a reminder of our own vulnerability.

You still have time to order Honey for friends and family. Order by September 4th and your recipients will receive their honey prior to Erev Rosh Hashana.

Use this as a High Holidays greeting. Each package includes an 8 oz. jar of Kosher honey with a Rosh Hashana greeting from you and the appropriate blessing over apples and honey.

Honey will be delivered directly to the recipient by first-class mail. Cost is $12/jar plus an additional $5 for first-class postage anywhere in the USA. We also ship overseas. Or if you prefer you can order a bulk shipment of 8 jars or more to one location and we will waive the late fee.

It is a challenge with which we must continue to wrestle. And Tisha B’Av is prime time for reminding us that it DID happen, and it CAN happen.

Join us in the Greenfield Chapel on Saturday evening, August 10th, and Sunday the 11th, as we acknowledge what was and pray that we and our descendants will not have to mourn the kinds of tragedies that took such a toll on our people.

---Rabbi Daniel Horwitz

Go to bethyeshurun.org and click on the Honey link. All orders must be placed on the order-entry system. No paper orders will be accepted.Order by August 5th to avoid a late fee.

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Beth Yeshurun goes to Camp Young Judaea-Texas!

Since 1952, CYJ Texas has given thousands of Jewish children life-changing summers.

They offer a fun, inclusive, challenging, action-packed, safe environment where campers can play, grow, and make lifelong friendships. Year after year campers go home with a love of Judaism and a strong connection to Israel. CYJ fosters personal growth by encouraging all kids to try new things and build new skills each and every summer.

CYJ 2019 | Session 1 visit made by Sheryl Eskowitz, Education Director, Sarah Goldberg, Youth Programming Coordinator, and Ariel Rozen, BYDS Director of Jewish Life

CYJ 2019 [ Session 2 visit made by Rabbis Sarah Fort and Ariel Sholklapper, along with baby David.

The 2019-2020 Jewish Learning Project!

ADULT AND PEDIATRIC FIRST AID/CPR/AED On July 25th, members of our Clergy and Staff completed Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED training from the American Red Cross!

The Jewish Learning Project (JLP) is Congregation Beth Yeshurun’s Adult Learning Program. Our JLP sessions offer a variety of spiritual, intellectual, and stimulating topics for you to choose from.

Sessions are held mostly on Sunday mornings and are open to the public and free* of charge.

It is vitally important that we are prepared to respond to the needs of our congregants, family, and friends whenever (and wherever) we are faced with an emergency situation requiring first aid and CPR.

To see the full listing visit our website at

bethyeshurun.org/learn/adult-learning

*Some classes may have materials fees.

CLASSES RESUME SEPTEMBER 8TH ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS IN THE MESSAGE! Contact: amills@bethyeshurun.org or 713.666.1881 for sizes & rates

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Your Gift Shop is stocked for all your needs!

The Beth Yeshurun Sisterhood Gift Shop Summer hours:

It was standing room only at the July CBY Socials happy hour. Thank you so much to Benjy’s for hosting us. Your generosity is so appreciated!

Every month will be different opportunity to meet new CBY members. Special thanks to chairs, Rodi and Bob Franco.

Sunday: Closed Monday: Closed Tuesday-Friday: 10:00am - 2:00pm Saturday: Closed

For more information contact Mindi Stern at mstern@bethyeshurun.org or 713.666.1881

Save the Date September 22, 2019 Self Defense Workshop with Constable Alan Rosen and Sisterhood Back by popular demand...

THE SISTERHOOD CHALLAH BAKE WORKSHOP! thursday, august 29, 2019 stein hall | 6:30 – 9:00 PM $18.00 | members

Join the Beth Yeshurun Sisterhood for wine, cheese, tea, and other light bites as we welcome New Members and learn to make Challah!

Bring your teenage children and grandchildren free of charge!

To register for the event or to learn more, visit byschallah0819.eventbrite.com

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Contact Us

SYNAGOGUE OFFICE bethyeshurun.org | 713.666.1881 4525 Beechnut St | Houston, TX 77096-1801 CLERGY Rabbi Brian Strauss bstrauss@bethyeshurun.org Assistant: Abby Rotenberg arotenberg@bethyeshurun.org | 713.255.8011 Rabbi Steven Morgen smorgen@bethyeshurun.org Rabbi Sarah Fort sfort@bethyeshurun.org Assistant: Lisa Unsell lunsell@bethyeshurun.org | 713.255.8017 Rabbi David Rosen, drosen@bethyeshurun.org Rabbi Jack Segal rabsegal@aol.com Rabbi Danny Horwitz rabbidanny@aol.com Cantor Meir Finkelstein mfinkelstein@bethyeshurun.org Asst. & B’nai Mitzvah Coordinator: Sara Cohen Kaiser skaiser@bethyeshurun.org | 713.255.8005

Time sensitive material - please deliver promptly!

WINE & CHEESE OPEN HOUSE NEW DATE! September 4, 2019 5:30-7:00pm Stop by and meet the Beth Yeshurun Family!

Supervised kid-friendly play area with inflatables and snacks

SYNAGOGUE Jerrad Bloome, President

president@bethyeshurun.org

CONGREGATION BETH YESHURUN

Andy Burger, Executive Director

Warmly Welcomes You!

aburger@bethyeshurun.org

Mindi Stern, Membership

Come Discover How Congregation Beth Yeshurun:

mstern@bethyeshurun.org

Jennifer-Joy Sutton, Director of Development jsutton@bethyeshurun.org

Riana Sherman, Programming Director

Ignites your spirituality through meaningful services and celebrations

Ashley Mills, Marketing & Communications Manager

Expands your insights and perspectives of Jewish life and thought

Arthur Miller, Cemetery

Connects and creates friendships with our expansive multi-generational community

WILLIAM S. MALEV RELIGIOUS SCHOOLS Sheryl Eskowitz, Education Director

Special One Year Introductory Memberships

BETH YESHURUN DAY SCHOOL School Office 713.666.1884, 713.255.8045 Jennifer LeVine, Head of School: jlevine@byds.org Read The Message online at bethyeshurun.org September deadline: August 9th to Ashley Mills

Contact Mindi Stern for details at 713.666.1881 or mstern@bethyeshurun.org

rsherman@bethyeshurun.org amills@bethyeshurun.org

amiller@bethyeshurun.org

| 713.255.8076

seskowitz@bethyeshurun.org

| 713.255.8040

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