Winter 2024 Shelanu

shelanu VOLUME XXXVV JANUARY 2024 | KISLEV - TEVET, 5784

TABLE OF CONTENTS LETTER FROM RABBI 1 SHABBAT HIGHLIGHTS 2 A NIGHT OUT WITH ANDY COHEN 3 ISRAEL COMMUNITY DRIVE 6 ADULT EDUCATION CLASSES 7 COMMUNITY PROGRAMMING 8 NCECE EVENTS 10 SLJ EVENTS 11 YOUTH & TEENS EVENTS 12 SAVE THESE DATES 13 HOW TO BAKE HEAVENLY 16 HAMANTASCHEN 40TH ANNUAL FEED THE COMMUNITY 1 7 31ST ANNUAL LORI SKLAR MITZVAH 19 DAY WINTER B’NAI MITZVAH 22

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE This online guide is digital and interactive!

Look for videos and special links throughout that will lead you to learn more.

To register for programs, visit cbiboca.org/events or click on registration icons in this document.

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CLERGY & SENIOR STAFF Rony S. Keller, RJE, Senior Rabbi Samantha Kahn, Senior Associate Rabbi David Muchnick, Senior Cantor Steve Allen, Executive Director Linda B. Harris, Director of Lifelong Learning Allison Sands, Director of Early Childhood Education Carly Wallenstein, Director of Religious School Robert A. Silvers, Rabbi Emeritus

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS Sharon Landau, President Andrea Cannon, VP of Social Action Ira Ginsberg, VP of Financial & Asset Management Gil Kaminer, VP of Membership Phil Rothschild, VP of Strategic Planning Robyn Rubinoff, VP of Education Barry Schwartz, VP of Administration Evan Appell, VP of Communications & Technology Jeffrey Cannon, Immediate Past President

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Annie Becker Danitte Beegel Jill Eisner Dani Helitzer Ali Myrick Mollie O'Grady

Rachel Ostrovsky Sean Tibor Amanda Tillman Taylor Weiss Philip Wishna

2023-24 SHOMRIM Howard & Karolina Kanner Richard & Rachel Ostrovsky Ken & Lisa Rosen Shai & Lauren Wolkowicki Steven & Abbe Becker Randall Elliott & Roberta Palestine Lawrence & Diane Feldman Lynn Garson Family Foundation Jeffrey & Darcy Hollander David & Leslie Kantor Jerome & Fran Butwin Renee Herskowitz Ron & Sharon Landau Arthur Schechner & Cynthia Hollander Schnechner Richard & Lois S. Werner Lewis & Lori Gold Matthew & Hilary K. Rosenthal David & Robyn Rubinoff Barry & Sally M. Schwartz Harry & Amy Seidman Allan & Elaine Abrams Howard & Deborah Belford Marcia Davis

Doug Feurring William Frankel Ira & Robynn Ginsburg Jason & Lauriel Klinghoffer Neil & Constance Meisel Renee Nadel & Harry Dubow Jeffrey & Andrea Cannon Douglas & Robin Ebstein Michael & Lynn Gross Robert & Auta Hendler David & Julie Kirschner Sydell Schubot Corey Shapiro Douglas & Jill Sherman Spencer & Dara Siegel Stanley & Susan Silber Gary & Vicky Weiner Victor & Vicki Weinstein Shirley Weisman William & Barbara Weprin Laurence & Robin Nagle David Ross Gary Rubin Phyllis Sandler Larry Schnurmacher

Shelanu is Hebrew for “ours” and is Congregation B’nai Israel’s quarterly magazine with a special High Holy Days print edition. It provides coverage of our congregation’s educational, religious, and social programming.

Questions? Email marketing@cbiboca.org

A LETTER FROM

RABBI KELLER Shalom Everyone,

How lucky are we that we, as a Jewish community, are able to celebrate the new year twice!

We, of course, celebrate Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, two holidays that help us to start the Jewish new year with sweetness and introspection.

Hopefully, we all internalized the meaningful messages from our Jewish new year and we have found ways to implement them in our lives. Now, we also have another opportunity for introspection and reflection as we begin the secular New Year.

horrifying images we’ve ached with the loss of soldiers, the waiting for hostages and the loss of lives. I will tell you though, having visited Israel By now I hope we had a shortly after the attacks on chance to sing Auld Lang Syne October 7th, Israelis are and toast in 2024…our second consistently filled with resolve. chance at a New Year to allow Even as they are faced with us to set resolutions and look challenges militarily, and forward to what's in store for pressure from the outside us. world, they continue to persevere. We must persevere I know you’ll agree that the as well. last part of 2023 was extremely challenging for the Within the early weeks of the entire Jewish community.

Hamas attacks, we at CBI and From the moment we the Jewish community around attempted to conclude the world responded quickly Sukkot/Simchat Torah we and generously to support have been in a fight for our Israel. Unfortunately, the lives. We’ve been witness to support has been waning. As the Hamas massacres, the the days of this war wage on, despicable nature of terrorists, we must continue to support and the constant barrage of Israel, through our financial rockets onto the homes of our donations and through our brothers and sisters in Israel. careful following of balanced Through news reports and news.

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With our new (secular) year now ahead of us, let’s make it a year filled with joy and happiness. Let's strive to find another opportunity to continue the introspection we started on Rosh Hashanah and let's continue to be a strong Jewish nation; a nation that feels the important and authentic connection that kol Yisrael aravim zeh ba’zeh (all members of the Jewish community are responsible for one another).

Happy (secular) New Year.

L’Shalom,

Rabbi Rony Keller, RJE Senior Rabbi

SHABBAT

SERVICE HIGHLIGHTS OUR

SERVICES FRIDAY EVENING SHABBAT SERVICES 6:30 PM Cohen/Friedkin Sanctuary In-person or via livestream on our CBI Boca Livestream Channel

SATURDAY MORNING SHABBAT SERVICES 8:30 AM Hollander Family Chapel In-person or via livestream on our CBI Boca Livestream Channel TORAH DISCUSSION 9:00 AM In-person or via Zoom

JANAURY 12, 2024

FEBRUARY 9, 2024

MLK INTERFAITH SHABBAT SERVICE

SHABBAT BLITZ

6:30 PM For over 30 years, Congregation B’nai Israel and Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church have joined together in friendship and song for interfaith services to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Join us at our Annual Interfaith Shabbat Service. After services, mingle with fellow members and community guests over wine, cheese, and lite bites.

This event is complimentary for all attendees.

LIVESTREAM SERVICES: tinyurl.com/CBILive Livestreaming services are made possible by the Goldstein-Kestecher Family Livestreaming Fund.

Score BIG this Shabbat as we turn the Cohen/Friedkin Sanctuary into the ultimate fan zone. Kickoff the weekend with a tailgate themed dinner, post-game celebration and endless fun for your family!

Pre-Game Tailgate Complimentary for members & school families $18 for community guests Post-Game Celebration Complimentary for all attendees.

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FEBRUARY 16, 2024

FEBRUARY 23, 2024

MAGIC OF DISNEY SHABBAT

A MUSICAL SHABBAT WITH DAN NICHOLS

6:30 PM

6:30 PM

Celebrate the MAGIC of Shabbat at Friday Evening Services featuring prayers set to Disney melodies. After our service, all are invited to enjoy a Disney-themed Oneg.

Dan Nichols will be joining CBI's clergy on the bimah for a musical Shabbat experience. This service is open to CBI members, school families and the community.

Costumes are highly encouraged!

This event is complimentary for all attendees.

This event is complimentary for all attendees.

RSVP TO ATTEND SHABBAT IN PERSON: login.cbiboca.org/shabbatservices

6:30PM

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MARCH 1, 2024 COMMUNITY PRIDE SHABBAT 5:30PM Adolph and Rose Levis JCC 21050 95th Avenue S, Boca Raton, FL Congregation B’nai Israel clergy, in conjunction with many of our community’s Jewish organizations, is excited to bring you the 2nd Annual South Palm Beach County Pride Shabbat! Rabbi Keller, Rabbi Kahn and Cantor Muchnick will lead our community together in a musical, communal and pluralistic erev Shabbat service and oneg to celebrate the diverse beauty that is the LGTBQ+ community. All are welcome to join us in this joyous recognition.

Please note that there will not be a Friday evening service on the CBI campus.

Registration information coming soon.

MARCH 2, 2024 CHAI MEMBER’S HAVDALAH & DINNER 6:30 PM In honor of its 40th Anniversary, Congregation B’nai Israel has the pleasure of honoring and celebrating the longstanding commitment of our cherished members who have been an integral part of our synagogue for 18 years or more.

Registration information coming soon.

MARCH 15, 2024 SHABBAT SHEROES 6:30 PM Women of CBI will take the bimah to lead us in prayers based on the words of powerful women from Torah, history and modern-day.

Following services, join Women of CBI for hors d’oeuvres to celebrate the women of our congregation.

This event is complimentary for all attendees.

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A NIGHT OUT WITH

ANDY COHEN The Rosenthal Speaker Series at Congregation B’nai Israel presented “A Night Out with Andy Cohen” on Thursday, November 9, 2023. Cohen’s hour long Q&A, moderated by Kelly Blanco, was the perfect mix of upbeat and unfiltered. Cohen talked about his upbringing, career, and life with kids.

The Watch What Happens Live host, also an executive producer across The Real Housewives universe, said his career stemmed from his incessant talking as a child. On a road trip from St. Louis to Florida, Cohen shared how he used a hairbrush for a pretend microphone and narrated the trip for two days straight.

Finally, his aunt poured a cup of tea over his head to get him to stop talking.

When reflecting on his upbringing, Cohen spoke fondly of his Jewish heritage. He was raised in a Reform synagogue in St. Louis and celebrated all the holidays. He recalled that he frequently uses Yiddish terms – his favorite being “Meshuggeneh.”

Cohen also shared that he had a keen interest in TV and celebrities, specifically referencing the soap, All My Children. While in college, he persuaded Susan Lucci to agree to be interviewed for an assignment.

He later circled back to how pivotal Lucci was - and is - in his career.

As the conversation shifted to discuss the role of Bravo and The Real Housewives franchise in his career, he was extremely gratefully – “Without The Housewives, I wouldn’t be here.” Blanco tried to stir things up, asking which Housewife he’d let look over his children. Ever the diplomat, Cohen praised all the women’s maternal instincts “I’d let any Housewife babysit my kids,” he said. “They’re all fantastic mothers.”

Cohen’s list of accolades far extends The Real Housewives franchise. He has launched two radio channels of Sirius XM and written numerous books.

Inspired by Andy Warhol’s diaries, Andy Cohen’s Diaries are honest, irreverent, and laugh-out-loud accounts of his experiences. His latest is the third installment of the “Andy Cohen Diaries” series, “The Daddy Diaries: The Year I Grew Up,” which chronicles his day-to-day life as a dad.

always played such a key role in his life and wants his children to have the same guidance that he received.

While parenting has tested the amount of patience he has, his favorite part about being a parent is watching his children’s personalities develop. Cohen shared that Ben (age 4) has his sense of humor, a little dark and twisted, and loves to call him “Andy Cohen” in public.

Knowing the importance that When asked how life has Judaism has had in his life, changed since becoming a Cohen wants to share those dad, Cohen first shared that values with his children. As of while he used to not get any now, he refuses to subscribe sleep because he’d stay out all to the current Bar Mitzvah night, now he doesn’t sleep party culture and plans to “for the right reasons.” have Ben’s Bar Mitzvah at a Fatherhood also helped Cohen pizzeria. Adding a little humor realize how superficial his life into the conversation, Cohen was previously and that he shared that take some of the wanted more out of life. dazzle away from Christmas and emphasize Chanukah, he Although Cohen is a single gives his son, Ben, fun and dad, his tight-knit circle enticing presents during the ensures that he is never truly Festival of Lights, and a “little alone. Cohen’s circle includes piece of plastic” on Christmas. many confident and powerful women. “I want him [Ben], and Congregation B’nai Israel my daughter, to be hosts The Rosenthal Speaker surrounded by as many Series, generously women as possible.” underwritten by Matthew and Hilary Rosenthal. Each year, He noted that women have The Rosenthal Speaker Series brings worldfamous thinkers and celebrities to Boca Raton to discuss a variety of topics as well as their connection to the Jewish community. Past speakers have included Maya

Angelou, Deepak Chopra, Henry Winkler and more.

Blanco ended the fireside chat by putting Cohen in the hot seat for “Plead the Fifth.”

PLEAD THE

FIFTH Burger or Chocolate?

Burger… Cheeseburger Cardi B or Nicki Minaj?

Nicki Sarah Jessica Parker or Kim Catrall?

S.J.P. Orange County or New York?

New York Nova or Lox? Lox Ryan Reynolds or Ryan Gosling?

Gosling… that’s the only correct answer.

Kyle or Lisa?

Both Jets or Giants?

I don’t know… Giants?

Padma or Tom? Padma Days of Our Lives or All My Children?

All My Children 4

taste of melton with Rabbi Silvers

WEDNESDAY APRIL 10 11:30AM WHET YOUR YOUR SOUL

APPETITE

AND

FEED

Congregation B’nai Israel and The South Palm Beach Florence Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning invite you to enjoy a “Taste of Melton.”

Sample a lesson Experience Melton's text-based, discussionoriented approach to Jewish learning Enjoy lunch THIS EVENT IS OPEN TO ALL. REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Members: $10 Community Guests: $18 REGISTER

For questions or more information, please contact Sophie Schnaper at programming@cbiboca.org.

ISRAEL COMMUNITY

DRIVE

Our congregation has a personal connection to the ongoing situation in Israel.

When our staff and congregants learned about the war, they jumped into action.

From collecting and shipping supplies to Israel soldiers to raising money to beautify bomb shelters with Jewish National Fund-USA, Congregation B’nai Israel members came together to support Israel.

Alex Cender and Ashley Katzen collaborated with Rabbi Keller to spearhead the Israel Community Drive, collecting supplies for the Israeli soldiers that were being called to respond as well as families who had lost everything.

The drive was held by the congregation between October 16th and 19th.

Congregants rallied together to donate in-demand supplies such as gauze, hydration packs, headlamps, flashlights and new clothing.

the support they desperately needed. In addition to donated items, synagogue members donated warehouse space, pallets, and helped with transportation of supplies. By October 20th, most of the emergency medical and tactical gear had made it to Israel. In total, more than 16,000 pounds of supplies were donated.

solidarity for Israel. Israelis living in the Gaza Envelope have 15 seconds to get to a bomb shelter when a missile siren goes off, therefore, bomb shelters are needed in close proximity – they’re on highways, in parks, and next to playgrounds, schools, and other community gathering areas.

Rabbi Keller felt a strong connection to the Jewish The Congregation B’nai Israel community also raised enough National Fund-USA’s Bomb Shelter Beautification Initiative "What was really amazing is money to beautify two after seeing the painted shelters. Rabbi Keller, who is that it was not just the shelters firsthand while American-Jewish community also a member of Jewish attending the organization’s or the Israeli-American National Fund-USA’s Rabbi’s community, it was people of all for Israel affinity group, began Rabbis for Israel Mission to Israel this past summer. Rabbi a fundraising campaign to ethnicities and all races really coming together to show up beautify a bomb shelter during Keller spoke on behalf of the congregation, saying “It was a for us," Katzen said. Katzen’s the High Holy Days. After the privilege to participate in this dad is from Israel and she has atrocities committed by project.” family living there. She felt Hamas on October 7, 2023, disconnected and guilty not the project quickly turned into LEARN MORE being able to give her family a showing of unity and 6

ADULT

EDUCATION Spring into 2024 with our compelling classes, candid conversations, and engaging events.

TORAH AND TEA: A JEWISH WOMAN’S ROUNDTABLE WEDNESDAYS AT 10:30AM Join Rabbi Kahn to discuss each week’s Torah portion from the Women’s Commentary over a steaming cup of tea.

REGISTER SHABBAT TORAH STUDY SATURDAYS AT 8:30AM Join CBI Clergy for insights and investigations into the the weekly Torah portion.

REGISTER LUNCH AND LEARN: HYMAN F. KLEINMAN FEBRUARY 20 AT 11:30AM Join Hyman F. Kleinman for a discussion about the creation of Mount Rushmore, the American Judaic reaction to the memorial, the reasoning behind the presidents honored, and their relationship with American Jewry.

REGISTER MEGILLAH AND MIMOSAS MARCH 24 AT 11AM Join CBI Clergy for an adults-only event in the festive spirit of Purim for some mimosas and breakfast bites. We will take a deeper look into the Book of Esther, what life was like in Shushan, and chat about what really went down during the Purim story.

REGISTER TASTE OF MELTON WITH RABBI SILVERS APRIL 10 AT 11:30AM WHET YOUR APPETITE AND FEED YOUR SOUL Congregation B’nai Israel and The South Palm Beach Florence Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning invite you to enjoy a “Taste of Melton.” Experience Melton's text-based, discussion-oriented approach to Jewish learning.

This event is free and open to both members and community guests. Lunch will be provided. Registration is required.

REGISTER POWER OF MUSIC APRIL 11 AT 7PM APRIL 18 AT 7PM APRIL 25 AT 7PM Partake in a three-part series of music, prayer, and meditation with Cantor Muchnick and Marianne Altschul.

REGISTER 7

MAHJONG CLUB TUESDAYS AT 6:30PM THURSDAYS AT 10:30AM Let’s get our Mahj on! Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned pro, join us Tuesdays and Thursdays for Mahjong. This club is open to our members, school families, and community guests.

Registration is requested.

REGISTER BOOK CLUB JANUARY 18 AT 7PM Join our book club for a virtual discussion of Jodi Picoult’s and Jennifer Finney Boyaln’s Mad Honey. A New York Times best seller, this is a riveting novel of suspense, an unforgettable love story, and a moving and powerful exploration of the secrets we keep and the risks we take in order to become ourselves.

COMMUNITY

PROGRAMMING From welcoming Shabbat together to hearing guest speakers, CBI provides many opportunities to find personal connection and build community. Find your people through a plethora of community programs.

REGISTER BLANKET MAKING FEBRUARY 5 AT 10:30AM MARCH 4 AT 10:30AM APRIL 1 AT 10:30AM Help us make no-sew blankets for hospital patients and the underserved in our community.

REGISTER CONNECTING CBI: BUSINESS NETWORKING JANUARY 31 AT 5:30PM FEBRUARY 21 AT 5:30PM Meet fellow congregants and community members in this monthly business networking group. Market your business, expand your business opportunities, learn helpful business practices and share the latest technologies.

Please note February registration will be available after the January event.

REGISTER BOOK CLUB FEBRUARY 15 AT 7PM Join our book club for an in-person discussion of The One-in-a-Million Boy. The novel revolves around a friendship between a 104year-old Lithuanian immigrant woman and an 11-year-old Boy Scout obsessed with Guinness world records. This book is a richly layered novel of hearts broken seemingly beyond repair and then bound by a stunning act of human devotion.

REGISTER

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NCECE and SLJ

PURIM Carnival EVENT SPONSORSHIPS March 10, 2024

QUEEN ESTHER - $1,000 Sponsor one of our main attractions, personalized banner hung at CBI prior to and during the event, name on all Purim marketing materials and shared on social media, free admission for your family to the event plus $30 in food tickets, and a reserved parking spot at the event.

KING AHASHVAROSH - $500 Personalized banner hung at CBI prior to and during the event, name on all Purim marketing materials and shared on social media, free admission for your family to the event plus $20 in food tickets.

UNCLE MORDECHAI - $250 Name on all marketing materials including social media, and free admission for your family to the event plus $10 in food tickets.

HAMANTASCHEN - $100 Free admission for your family to the event. Thank you for helping make our event more fun and supporting CBI! FOR INFORMATION ABOUT SPONSORSHIPS: Rebecca Gaines: gainesrebecca14@gmail.com Jen Geller: jennifer.kriger@gmail.com Ashley Wolpert: ashley.n.wolpert@gmail.com

A portion of the proceeds will benefit the ongoing building enhancement projects throughout CBI, NCECE and SLJ. SPONSOR NOW!

“A NIGHT IN VEGAS” PARENT’S NIGHT OUT JANUARY 18 AT 7:30PM Welcome to Fabulous CBI! Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, open bar, Blackjack, Roulette and Poker, and a live and silent auction.

Our event will include a variety of fabulous auction items for everyone including queen of carpool, spa and wellness packages, themed gift bundles galore…

Questions? Contact pnobnaiisrael@gmail.com.

BUY TICKETS GRANDPARENT’S DAY FEBRUARY 5 - 8 Grandparents, grandma, grandpa, or other grand person - come join your grandchild on campus for a snack, craft and sing-a-long!

Parents: Check with your child’s teacher for your assigned day.

Please RSVP to your child's teacher with the names of the Grands who will be attending by Thursday, January 25.

SPECIAL GUY’S DAY FEBRUARY 12 - 15 Children of all ages bring a special guy with them to school for an hour of fun and memories.

Check with your child’s teacher for your assigned day.

TOT SHABBAT

NADEL

CENTER FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION The Nadel Center for Early Childhood Education and its Parent Organization develop Family Programs that are a great way to try something new, strengthen family bonds, and connect with other families in the community.

MARCH 29 AT 4:45PM Don’t miss the last Tot Shabbat of the year!

Please join us in the Cohen/Friedkin Sanctuary for a Shabbat service with Rabbi Keller and Ms. Susan, followed by dinner and a special art project in the VIP ballroom.

Please note that due to the number of anticipated attendees, doors will open at 4:45PM to account for security procedures.

The service will begin promptly at 5PM. Registration information coming soon.

PURIM CARNIVAL MARCH 10 AT 3PM Bring the family and celebrate Purim at Congregation B’nai Israel with our annual carnival! Connect with old friends and meet new ones as we enjoy this festive holiday together. Featuring games, attractions, face painting and more!

Ticket purchasing information coming soon.

SPONSOR NOW!

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2ND GRADE SHABBAT

BARRY IRA GRAFF

SCHOOL FOR LIVING JUDAISM The Barry Ira Graff School for Living Judaism is dedicated to positive and engaging Jewish education to inspire lifelong participation in the Jewish community for all learners and their families.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SLJ PROGRAM, PLEASE CONTACT CARLY WALLENSTEIN, DIRECTOR OF RELIGIOUS EDUCATION, VIA EMAIL AT CARLY.WALLENSTEIN@CBIBOCA.ORG.

JANUARY 19 AT 6:30PM Our 2nd Grade students will join our clergy on the bimah and participate in the Friday Night Shabbat Service. All SLJ 2nd Grade families are invited to join us for a kid-friendly Shabbat Dinner before services. Dinner will start at 5:30 pm. Dinner is complimentary for SLJ families. Services begin at 6:30 pm with Oneg to follow.

REGISTER 6TH GRADE FAMILY PROGRAM JANUARY 21 AT 9AM Your student's Bar/Bat Mitzvah is not so far away! 6th Grade students and families are invited to make a yad (a Torah pointer) to be used when your child is called up to the Torah as a Jewish adult for the first time. This meaningful family program will allow you to ask clergy questions and engage in dialogue regarding what it means to become a Bar/Bat Mitzvah in 2024. A light breakfast will be served.

REGISTER 3RD GRADE SHABBAT FEBRUARY 2 AT 6:30PM Our 3rd Grade students will join our clergy on the bimah and participate in the Friday Night Shabbat Service. All SLJ 3rd Grade families are invited to join us for a kid-friendly Shabbat Dinner before services. Dinner will start at 5:30 pm. Dinner is complimentary for SLJ families. Services begin at 6:30 pm with Oneg to follow.

Registration information coming soon.

1ST GRADE FAMILY PROGRAM FEBRUARY 11 AT 9AM Judaism commands us to place a physical reminder of the commandments between our eyes and on the doorposts of our guests. One way we fulfill this commandment is with beautifully decorated Mezuzot. Join your child's 1st Grade class to create a unique Mezuzah for you and your family to take home. A light breakfast will be served.

Registration information coming soon.

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MENTAL HEALTH FOR TEENS JANUARY 16 AT 5:45PM JANUARY 23 AT 5:45PM The 9-12th Grade Kamsly Grant Program is excited to welcome Arielle Blumenthal from JFS for a three-part series, with each session focusing on a different topic about teen’s mental health.

Session 1 (1/9): Overview of mental health and its effects on teens Session 2 (1/16): Social media's impact on our mental health Session 3 (1/23): Parents are invited to join us for a workshop on how to communicate with your child about mental health, followed by a joint session with the teens.

Arielle Blumenthal is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) from Ruth Norman Rales JFS in Boca Raton. Arielle has years of experience working with youth, teens, families, and adults.

No RSVP required. This series will take the place of our regular 9th-12th grade classes.

NFTY STR AT UNIVERSAL’S ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE JANUARY 14 9th-12th Graders are invited to join South Florida High School youth groups on a fullday turn-around trip up to Universal's Islands of Adventure! The trip cost includes a charter bus for transportation and a park ticket. *Discounted registration is available upon request for those with annual passes.

YOUTH & TEENS CBI’s Youth Groups aim to create a path of continuous engagement for our elementary-age and teenage community members.

FOR UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION ABOUT PROGRAMMING — CONTACT ANNIE ROSENTHAL, YOUTH ENGAGEMENT PROFESSIONAL, VIA EMAIL AT ANNIE.ROSENTHAL@CBIBOCA.ORG.

REGISTER CLUB 678 MONSTER MINI GOLF JANUARY 21 AT 12:30 PM MONSTER MINI GOLF 9533 WESTVIEW DRIVE, CORAL SPRINGS Club 678 is headed to Monster Mini Golf for a fun day of mini golfing, arcade games, and a pizza party at Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza!

REGISTER CLUB 678 SHABBATON FEBRUARY 9-10 Grab your sleeping bags and pillows! Club 678's spending the night at CBI for a Shabbat celebration. Dinner and breakfast are included.

REGISTER CHAVERIM MAD SCIENTISTS FEBRUARY 11 AT 10:30AM Calling all of our Mad Scientists! We will be taking part in some crazy experiments and watching how elements react together. Some of our experiments will even be edible! *Please note that all Sunday Enrichment students will attend.

REGISTER 12

11

Bedtime Blessings Room 101

12

MLK Interfaith Shabbat Service with CBI’s Choir

14

MLK Interfaith Service at Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church NFTY STR Trip to Universal’s Islands of Adventure

15

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day CBI Offices and School Closed

17

Bedtime Blessings Room 102

18

NCECE PO Parent’s Night Out Book Club

21

Club 678 at Monster Mini Golf

24

Erev Tu B’shevat Bedtime Blessings Room 103

25

Tu B’shevat

31

Connecting CBI Bedtime Blessings Room 104

FEBRUARY 1

Bedtime Blessings Room 11 Getting to Know Your Mental Health with Arielle Blumenthal

2

SLJ Bible Players SLJ 3rd Grade Shabbat

4

Mitzvah Day

5-7

NCECE Grandparent Week

7

Bedtime Blessings Room 115

9

Shabbat Blitz

9-10

Club 678 Shabbaton

11

Chaverim Mad Scientists

12-15

NCECE Special Guy Day

15

Bedtime Blessings Room 120 Book Club on Campus

13

16

Magic of Disney Shabbat

19

Presidents’ Day CBI Offices and School Closed

20

Lunch and Learn with Hyman F. Kleinman

21

Connecting CBI

23

A Musical Shabbat with Dan Nichols and CBI’s Choir

25

Club 345 at Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park

SAVE THESE DATES

JANUARY

MARCH 1

Community Pride Shabbat at JCC

2

Chai Member’s Havdalah and Dinner

4

Blanket Buddies

10

Purim Carnival

15

Shabbat SHEroes

17

NCECE My First Holiday

20

Connecting CBI

21

Book Club

23

Erev Purim Purim Shpiel

24

Purim Megillah & Mimosas

29

Tot Shabbat

14

GET INVOLVED WITH

WOMEN OF CBI "Women of CBI" is a programming committee working to serve the needs of all female-identifying members of CBI at every age and stage of life. This initiative will ensure a vast array of events, adventures, learning opportunities and community involvement activities to engage and connect all participants.

LOOK FORWARD TO

UPCOMING EVENTS

Intergenerational Tea Party (2/10) Women's Shabbat (3/15) Women's Seder (4/4) Hope in Gold - program for pediatric cancer (5/9) Blue & White Family Havdalah (5/11) Cookbook Project Women’s Weekly Torah Study and more!

FROM OUR

CONGREGATION TO YOUR

KITCHEN TIPS & TRICKS FOR BAKING HEAVENLY HAMANTASCHEN “First, make sure your dough is cut into big enough circles, around the size of a large coffee mug. If the circle of dough is too small, it will be more difficult to fold around the filling you choose. Also, for the filling - thicker fillings work better. Chilling your fillings in the refrigerator can help to make them stay in the center of your Hamantaschen and not leak out.” - Ali Myrick “Roll the dough thin. NOT paper thin, but thin.

Also, put a dollop of filling, about the size of a quarter. Not too much, it will ooze out!”

- Susan Shane-Linder

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SOCIAL ACTION 17

40TH ANNUAL

FEED THE

COMMUNITY

Congregation B’nai Israel has partnered with Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church for 40 years to provide a Thanksgiving feast for members of our community.

A collaboration of corporations, community organizations, and more came together to collect and distribute food to the underserved in our community. This year, Congregation B’nai Israel provided over 5,500 pounds of dry goods, 3,800 pounds of turkey and chicken, and 2,800 pounds of fresh produce, in addition to corn bread, cookies, pies, water bottles, and student lunches.

Volunteers spent the morning at Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church assembling “make your own Thanksgiving meal kits.” The kits were then given to families, feeding more than 1,000 people. Food supplies were donated from event sponsors and individuals, including Myrick Produce, Phyllis and Irving Smith Foundation, Hope and Todd Blum, St. Andrews Country Club, Woodfield Country Club, Frenchman’s Creek Country Club, Boca Grove Country Club, Addison Reserve Country Club, Victory Wholesale Group, VIP Caterers, Stein Posner Realty, Walmart, Renee Herskowitz, Karen Coles, and Robyn and David Rubinoff.

MONTHLY MITZVAHS As a Congregation with a Conscience®, social action initiatives are integral to our synagogue's mission. Throughout the year, we host various events and collections for local charities. As a united effort, the Nadel Center for Early Childhood Education, The Barry Ira Graff School for Living Judaism, and Congregation B'nai Israel participate in volunteer opportunities and collections centered around a central guiding theme each month.

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MARCH

Tikun Olam Repair the World

Kibud Zkeynim Honor Your Elders

Shalom Bayit Peace in the Home

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR MONTHLY INITIATIVES, GO TO CBIBOCA.ORG/MONTHLYMITZVAHS.

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VOLUNTEER

OPPORTUNITIES Congregation B’nai Israel was built on a foundation of service to the community.

Together as a congregation, we have come together to use our voices and actions in a meaningful way to make a positive difference in our community. For those looking to volunteer, CBI offers a number of ways to help others and connecting with fellow volunteers

AROUND THE OFFICE

COMMUNITY INITIATIVES

CBI is always looking to keep a list of names to have as a back-up volunteer for days our staff is out of the office.

The Kantor Family Center for Justice sponsors various collections and hands-on opportunities throughout the year. Each month, members can volunteer to: Assemble blankets Make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches Organize and deliver collections to the designated organizations and more

EVENTS Volunteers are needed to assist with checking in and greeting guests at special events, such as High Holy Day Services

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31ST ANNUAL

LORI SKLAR MITZVAH DAY In keeping with Judaism’s teachings of Tikkun Olam, this is a day for volunteers of all ages to come together, lending their time, energy and compassion to work on projects that improve the lives of those in need.

This year, we will have on-campus, offcampus and at-home activities as well as collections. Donations can also be made to the Kantor Family Center for Justice.

Our Opening Ceremony featuring CBI President Sharon Landau, CBI Executive Director Steve Allen, CBI Clergy, Boca Raton Mayor Scott Singer and DJ Miss Susan will be held at CBI at 9am. A light breakfast will be served.

MITZVOT AT CBI Following the Opening Ceremony, participate in one of our many on-campus activities including: PB & J Sandwich Making Making Birthday Boxes Decorating Cards for IDF Soldiers Assembling No-Sew Blankets Putting Together Toiletry Kits Bagging Shabbat Kits Donating blood with ONEblood drive

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OFF CAMPUS ACTIVITIES For those of you looking to get out into the community, we have a bunch of activities to choose from. Opportunities include: Beach Clean Up: Help us clean up our beaches, protect our ocean and raise awareness about litter and plastic pollution. Please bring your own garbage bags and sunscreen – gloves, pickers, water and a snack will be provided.

Gleaning: When we glean, we harvest fruits and vegetables for families, seniors and children who have limited access to fresh food.

Join us and CROS Ministries to help pick fresh produce.

Bingo at JARC: Join us at JARC (Jewish Adult Recreation Center) for bingo, pizza and fun with members of our community.

Menorah House Concert: Cantor Muchnick and CBI's Adult Choir will be performing for residents of this assisted-living community. CBI Members are invited to join to play games and spend time with residents.

Little Free Pantry Food Delivery: Help us fill the Little Free Pantries at Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church with non-perishable food items that have been collected at CBI. In Jacob's Shoes: Visit the facility in Deerfield to clean shoes for members of our community.

GOOD DEEDS AT HOME From baking to making cards to collections and more, we have fun, meaningful activities for all ages that you can do at home and drop off at CBI on Mitzvah Day from 9am-12:00pm in the Admin Circle.

PB & J Sandwich Making: Make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for after school programs for underprivileged children. Please buy a loaf of your favorite bread, a jar of peanut butter (or sun butter) and a jar of jelly and make between 8 and 10 sandwiches. Place each sandwich in a zip lock bag then right back into the bread bag.

Birthday Boxes: Decorate a shoe box (recycle an Amazon box) and fill it with party favors, cake mix, frosting, an aluminum pan, candles, a small bag of balloons, and make a birthday card. Boxes will be given to various organizations for children’s birthdays.

Cards and Pictures for First Responders and Seniors: Get creative and make your own cards and draw pictures to say thank you or spread some love. These will be distributed to Boca PD, Fire Rescue, Hospital workers and JFS seniors in our community.

Bake Cookies for Fire Fighters: Whip up your favorite cookies and place them in a small plastic bag with a thank you card for our local community helpers.

Washcloths and Soap: Purchase washcloths and soap and tie them together with a ribbon to distribute to members of our community.

Put Together Toiletries: Purchase socks, toothbrushes and toothpaste. Place the toothbrush and toothpaste inside the socks, and tie them together with a ribbon to distribute to members of our community.

LEARN MORE & REGISTER TO PARTICIPATE To learn more about Mitzvah Day and to sign-up please visit cbiboca.org/mitzvahday or click the button below.

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GUESTS ARE INVITED TO WEAR THEIR FAVORITE NFL TEAM JERSEY (OR ANY SPORTS TEAM JERSEY) AND JOIN IN CELEBRATING SHABBAT WITH FANS OF ALL AGES.

SCORE BIG THIS SHABBAT AS WE TURN THE COHEN/FRIEDKIN SANCTUARY INTO THE ULTIMATE FAN ZONE.

FEBRUARY

9 2024

5:30PM - PRE-GAME TAILGATE Pollock Family Courtyard Complimentary for members & school families $18 for community guests

6:30PM - SERVICE 7:30PM - POST-GAME CELEBRATION VIP Lounge Complimentary for all attendees

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. REGISTER

WINTER 2024

B’NAI MITZVAH The B’nai Mitzvah experience marks the transition from childhood to responsible adulthood. Judaism, both in belief and deed, is guided by mitzvot, those lessons of the ages that give structure, meaning, and purpose to our lives. In our congregation, this important chapter in a child’s life brings the entire family together to celebrate a time-honored tradition and create a memorable Jewish experience.

CAI & ELI RUDIKOFF JANUARY 13, 2024

Family: Sons of Adam & Leia Rudikoff, Grandsons of Dr. Jeff & Dr. Ellen Rudikoff and Chunming Lu & Yihua Xu Hobbies: Fishing, swimming, golf and piano School: American Heritage - Boca Delray Mitzvah Project: Cai and Eli are doing two projects together: 1) cleaning up the Pond Hawk Nature Area so the community can fully appreciate its beauty; 2) raising money to help build a bomb shelter in Israel. Anyone who makes a donation will receive a bag of cookies baked by Eli Rudikoff.

AVERY SCHECKNER

JANUARY 20, 2024

Family: Daughter of Allison & Justin Scheckner, Sister of Ella, Granddaughter of Nan & Ira Theodore and Lois & Joel Scheckner Hobbies: Playing soccer and tennis, spending time with family and friends, and shopping School: Eagles Landing Middle School Mitzvah Project: Avery is raising money to send toys, dolls and stuffed animals to displaced children in Israel with the help of Congregation B’nai Israel. In addition, Avery works twice a month with children with special needs as part of the community service group, Best Buddies at Eagles Landing Middle School.

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JORDAN SOLODKIN

FEBRUARY 3, 2024

Family: Son of Lori & Jason Solodkin, Brother of Samantha, Grandson of Joanne Moskin and Erica & Jeff Solodkin Hobbies: Dancing, music, shows, playing Wii and basketball

EMILY HARMON

FEBRUARY 17, 2024 Family: Daughter of Michael & Pamela Harmon, Granddaughter of Ruth Rothenberg, Barbara Harmon, Stephen Harmon, and Cynthia Harmon Hobbies: Ice skating, sewing and traveling School: Omni Middle School Mitzvah Project: Emily is fundraising for Give Kids the World, an organization located in Orlando which provides weeklong, cost-free vacations for children with critical illnesses and their families.

ETHAN FISCHBEIN

MARCH 2, 2024

Family: son of Hara & Brian Fischbein, Brother of Brielle and Vivian, Grandson of Nancy & Stuart Fischbein and Anita & Joel Robrish Hobbies: Ethan is apart of the Middle School Leadership Counsel, plays flag football and tennis, and enjoys robotics, theater, piano and cooking.

School: Pine Crest School Mitzvah Project: Ethan is volunteering at Friendship Circle, an organization which cultivates meaningful relationships and friendships between teens and children with disabilities.

HANNAH AND SARAH KAMINER MARCH 9, 2024 Family: Daughters of Gil & Joy Kaminer, Sisters of Sarah and Lilah, Granddaughters of Ann & David Kaminer Hobbies: Hannah and Sarah have been dancing since age 3 and are dance teaching assistants. They both love to read, listen to music, attend concerts and musicals, and like watching NY sports (Sarah the Rangers and Hannah the Knicks). Music is a major aspect of everyday day life for Hannah and Sarah who play several instruments. Sarah studies piano and plays saxophone in her school’s wind ensemble and jazz band. Hannah studies guitar, sings and plays the French horn in school wind ensemble.

School: Don Estridge High Tech Middle School Mitzvah project: Hannah and Sarah are collecting gently used instruments to be donated to the Palm Beach Symphony, who will tune them, and distribute to public schools in need. They also intend to perform at local senior living facilities. If you would like more information about donating musical equipment to Hannah and Sarah’s Mitzvah project, please email Joy Kaminer at joy1226kam@gmail.com.

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THE POWER of

Join Cantor Muchnick and Marianne Altschul for a three-part series of music, prayer, and meditation.

April 11 April 18 7:00 - 8:30PM

April 25

Marianne is a holistic life coach, integrative therapist, speaker, educator, and meditation teacher. Together, Cantor Muchnick and Marianne will provide an amazing musical experience.

Registration is Required.

Complimentary for CBI Members Community Guests: $18 for One Session $36 for Three Sessions REGISTER

DO

BE LA T ’ N T FOR

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a very important date!

THE WOMEN OF CBI INVITE YOU TO THE

INTERGENERATIONAL TEA PARTY February 10 • 2PM Tealicious Tea House 4995 W Atlantic Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33445

Spend the afternoon sipping the tea while bridging the gap between generations, sharing stories, and creating lasting memories together.

Open to children aged 12+, moms and grandmas.

CBI Members: $36 Member Guests: $50 REGISTER

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2200 Yamato Road Boca Raton, FL 33431 561.241.8118 cbiboca.org

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