Normally, on the Shabbat before a new month on the Jewish calendar, we announce that month with a special prayer, but we do not do so before the month of Tishrei, when the High Holidays fall. Why is this month different from all other months?
Perhaps because the entire month of Elul that leads up to it is one long announcement in and of itself. There are a number of preparatory ritual practices that begin in Elul (roughly from the middle of August to the middle of September this year). At the end of services, evening and morning, we recite Psalm 27, sometimes referred to as the “Penitential Psalm”. In the morning, we blow one set of shofar blasts at the end of the service. Sephardim begin reciting Seli ḥot prayers in the early morning before Sha ḥarit throughout this month and beyond. These serve as daily ritual reminders that Tishrei and Rosh Hashanah are coming, but these are not arbitrary rituals. They are supposed to drive us to take non-ritual action.
Our prophets often berated the ancient Israelites for performing ritual while acting unethical in their everyday lives. This idea features in the Yom Kippur haftarah, for example, with Isaiah asking on God’s behalf “Is this the fast I desire?” Elul is a month for taking stock. The shofar blasts are supposed to wake us up that we have work to do before Rosh Hashanah; the words of Psalm 27 and Seli ḥot are not just for reciting by rote, but to remind us of what we need to do.
Elul is a month for “ḥeshbon ha-nefesh,” literally “the accounting of the soul.” We are supposed to set aside some time to look back at the year and our relationships with both other humans and with God. Last year, during one of my holiday sermons, I talked about “not yet” vs “no” as a response to whether we are doing what God and Judaism ask of us, and challenged each person to try to go up in holiness by doing at least one small thing more during the upcoming year. This is one measuring stick you can use (and the year isn’t over yet - it’s not too late), but ḥeshbon ha-nefesh should ideally be more than just that.
We need to take each relationship and evaluate where we need to make course-corrections and what we can do better, interpersonally, ethically, and religiously. What are our strengths and weaknesses? If we need to make amends, this is the time to do it. If we are not sure if we have inadvertently offended someone, this is the time to ask. Our tradition is that God cannot forgive for offenses between one person and another until forgiveness is first granted by the offended party. Here is a webpage with one approach to ḥeshbon ha-nefesh based on the traditional work of that name: http://www.jewishmag.com/58mag/chesbon/chesbon.htm
Some have suggested that the very name of the month of Elul contains hints of what we must do this month. If one reverses the letter in the name Elul, one gets the word lulei (which interestingly enough, features in the aforementioned Psalm 27). What does this word mean? “If it wasn’t for.” These words introduce an alternate reality that did not happen. We can apply this as we look back at the last year in terms of what we regret, for example: “If it wasn’t for how busy things were at work, I would have been able to spend more time with my family.” Thinking about our regrets can indeed help us identify what we can do better and how we can accomplish that in the new year, but this isn’t the only way we can use the word lulei, “if it wasn’t for.” We can also use it in a way that reminds us of the people and things we do have in our lives, without which our lives would be incomplete. This too can help us towards our Elul goals. When we recognize and appreciate others and feel gratitude, that helps us to want to strengthen our relationships with them and repair any breaches - indeed, even the very act of expressing gratitude can go a long way. Not only that, but thinking about those who have helped us and how they have done so can also increase our motivation to pay it forward and resolve to help other people in the new year.
Lulei is not the only suggestion of a hidden meaning in the name of the month. The biblical book of Song of Songs famously declares “I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine.” This is certainly a beautiful line for a wedding, but it also has the traditional implication of referring to our relationship with God. In Hebrew, this phrase is “ani l’dodi v’dodi li.” If you take the first letters of those four words and put them together, what do you get? Elul. The idea here is that the love between God and ourselves has the potential to be deepened and intensified during this month, but as in any relationship, it requires effort on our part to rebuild and/or strengthen that bond. And the corollary is that since humans are in God’s image, so too for our relationships with other humans.
Elul may not seem like an eventful month, looking at a Jewish calendar, but it is in fact of great importance. The High Holidays are not a time for empty ritual; they require preparation, and if it wasn’t for this month of Elul, we would have no opportunity for ḥe shbon ha-nefesh, to work on repairing relationships and ourselves, and to deepen our connection with God and our fellow humans. I encourage you to take this opportunity Judaism so wisely gives us.
Rabbi Aaron Marsh
Chicago’s Obscure Garment Strike
In mid-June, Jan and I traveled to the "Windy City" with 13 others on a Federation bus trip. Chicago lived up to its nickname; We dressed as though it was mid-April here. We ate kosher food at Manny’s Deli on the west side, at Milt’s Barbecue for the Perplexed on the north side, and received sandwiches on the way in from Kramer’s Kosher Cuisine in South Bend that’s near a yeshiva. You can close your mouth now.
Our tour guide, Matthew Schlerf, was extremely knowledgeable and entertaining. We visited the Art Institute, the Garfield Park Conservatory, got the history behind KAM Isaiah Israel Synagogue (it’s Reform and across from Obama’s residence on the south side) toured historic Jewish neighborhoods and learned a good amount of local history. What follows comes from info Matthew sent me, as well as Wikipedia and The National Park Service’s website.
You may remember that in the early 1900s, New York City’s women’s garment trades dominated its economy, culminating in a 1909 strike called “The Uprising of the 20,000”. Much lesser known is that Chicago was a main source of men’s garments, an industry that actually surpassed the famed stockyards as its largest employer. Over two-thirds of the laborers were immigrants and about half were women. Chicago suffered its own (and again less well-remembered) garment strike – one of the biggest in the city’s history - begun by a female Jewish employee in 1910.
Ukrainian-born Hannah Shapiro worked at Hart, Schaffner, and Marx (HSM), Chicago’s largest men’s garment manufacturer. As the eldest child, Shapiro joined the workforce at 13 to help support her family. She did various things, such as making bowties and removing temporary stitches in men’s coats. She earned her highest wage at one time, $12 per week, operating a pocket cutting machine. But in September, 1910, her weekly earnings totaled just $7 while working 10 hour days at HSM’s Shop #5, earning 4 cents for each pocket she sewed on men’s trousers or jackets.
Hannah recalled that life in a 1976 interview – about a year before she died. She didn’t remember HSM as being a terrible place to work because Jews were allowed passes to leave early on Friday and weren’t forced to work on Shabbos. She also didn’t mind walking up five floors to sew. (The interview didn’t speak of the inconsistent shifts in cramped sweatshops with poor lighting.) But on September 22, 1910, HSM cut the 4 cents per trouser pocket by ¼ cent. Hannah and 16 women took their scissors and walked out of Shop #5, one of 48 owned by HSM.
It took 3-4 weeks before 41,000 HSM employees joined them. Besides having no mass technology, the women (and men) were Jews mainly from Russia, Ukraine and Germany, along with Poles, Italians, Scandinavians and Czechs. English wasn’t a shared language, making communication difficult between the different ethnicities.
As in the more famous NYC strike, much violence occurred and five people lost their lives. The strike mainly ended in mid-January, 1911 with an agreement reached by Jewish local labor leader Sidney Hillman and famous attorney Clarence Darrow. HSM workers got their jobs back and an Arbitration Board was formed to handle current and future grievances. That Board was extremely successful in resolving differences over wages and work rules. Sadly, this is a very incomplete summary of the strike as I’m limited by space. Email me to know more and I’ll send the full history.
Wasn’t our 160th anniversary celebration such a wonderful, memorable event? My first debt of gratitude is to everyone who created it: Committee Chair - Joshua Leizerman, Rhoda Miller, Cathy Sperling, Mike Mallin, Christina Katz and Paul Causman. Thanks to Howard Moskowitz, who had CBI history at our electronic fingertips, aided by Deborah Orloff, Rachel, Hannah and Sophia Chernow, Cobin Katz, Dale Levy, and Brynna Post. Thanks to all the bakers too! They were: Miriam Beckerman, Mary Bilyeu, Hannah Chernow, Rachel Chernow, Nancy Goldberg, Joan Levitan, Kathryn Linver, Rhoda Miller, Cathy Sperling, and Dena Zack
Thanks to all the voluntary participants in our first Gay Pride Shabbat Service in June, especially to organizer Dale Levy. Thanks also to May’s Connecting Kids volunteers: Jack Katz, Jeff Bauer, Mike Tamor, Fran Weinblatt and Mark Wexler who comes on his own every Thursday. June’s Connecting Kids volunteers: Janet Erickson, Fran Weinblatt, Judy Weinberg, Debbie Katz-Liebenthal, Sophia Chernow, Rabbi Marsh and Darlene Portnoy. Can you spot the first-timers? Can you become one?
Tom Kasle, CBI President
August Special Birthdays
A Hearty Mazal Tov & Happy Birthday wishes to the following congregants on the occasion of their milestone birthdays!
Marvyn Greenberg
Eleanor Golding
August 2 nd 97 th Birthday
August 26 th 94 th Birthday
Sam Zyndorf August 13
Dolores Alexander August 16
Adam Levine August 19
Rabbi Aaron Marsh August 25
Janice Schott August 29
Jessica Leizerman August 31
August Special Anniversaries
No August Special Anniversaries
Special Birthdays & Anniversaries reflect the "0" or "5" year of the birthday or anniversary.
A Special Todah Rabah to...
TO VOLUNTEERS & STAFF ON THE CBI 16OTH ANNIVERSARY EVENT
Miriam Beckerman, Mary Bilyeu, Paul Causman, Rachel Chernow, Hannah Chernow, Nancy Goldberg, David Jeffries, Christina Katz, Joshual Leizerman, Joan Levitan, Kathryn Linver, Mike Mallin, Rhoda Miller, Howard Moskowitz, Stacey Oswald, Cathy Sperling, Dena Zack
Condolences
OUR SYNAGOGUE FAMILY MOURNS THE LOSS OF DIANA PENNY LIPSZYC
Beloved wife of Jack, mother of Brian (Debbie) Lipszyc, Sarah (Matthew) Forti, and Michelle (Andrew) Read, and grandmother of Emily, Ben and Hannah; and brother Jim (Karen) Lesky.
May her family be comforted amongst all who mourn in Zion.
57 87 Kol Nidre Appeal
Please watch your mailbox for the 5787 Kol Nidre Appeal donation envelopes. We thank you in advance for your support of Congregation B'nai Israel.
New Members
OUR SYNAGOGUE FAMILY WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS
Marcia Ann Sweet
Mazal Tov to...
• Carol & Bill Richman on the birth of grandson Samuel Reza Richman. Proud parents are Sheeva & Nathan Richman.
• Cheryl & Stephen Rothschild, and Rona & Paul Rothschild on the birth of granddaughter/great-granddaughter, Maya Pearl Rothschild. Proud parents are Aly & Andrew Rothschild.
Join the CBI Sukkah Hop!
This year, Sukkot begins on the evening of Friday, September 26th and ends on Friday, October 2nd. Are you planning to put up a sukkah at your home this year?
If the answer is yes, we hope you will consider welcoming CBI members to your sukkah as part of the CBI Sukkah Hop! Last year, the attendees visited sukkot at three CBI members homes and everyone had a truly wonderful and meaningful experience! Contact Miriam Beckerman with any questions at wcbi@cbitoledo.org.
CBI Dues Notice
A 2026-2027 dues statements will arrive at your home in August as the CBI fiscal year begins on August 1, 2026. Monthly payments to your Visa, Mastercard or Discover or by scheduled bank checks can be arranged by contacting the office at 419.517.8400.
We appreciate your timely payment.
Please note that credit card payments will incur an additional 3% processing fee.
A Jewish Education is the foundation of a Jewish life
The David S. Stone Religious School invites grandparent who are members in good standing at Congregation B’nai Israel and Congregation Etz Chayim to enroll their school-aged grandchildren (grades 1-10) for the 2026-2027 year. Grandparents will be responsible for the $200 fee to CBI for the Religious School academic year.
Please contact Kim Brody and Shira Hartman at kbrody@ cbitoledo.org if you are interested in this exceptional opportunity to educate our Jewish children or if you have any questions.
We Invite You to Experience the Most Holy Time of the Year
If you or a member of your family would like to be a part of High Holiday services, please email Joel Levitan at jll1@ buckeye-express.com. If you participated in services last year, you will be contacted to confirm your participation this year.
Choose from:
• Chanting from the Torah
• English or Hebrew Reading
• Open/Close the Ark
• Chanting the Haftarah
• Carry, lift, or dress the Torah
• Usher... and more!
Lulav & Etrog Set with Hoshanot
If you wish to purchase a set for Sukkot, please call the office at (419) 517-8400 or email gmallin@cbitoledo.org no later than Thursday, September 3, 2026.
ORDER YOURS NOW
Price: $65 per set
The
57 87
Yizkor
1:1 Matching Funds Tepper Grant awarded to CBI
The Jewish Federation & Foundation of Greater Toledo has approved a 1:1 Matching Funds Tepper Grant to Congregation B’nai Israel for the total amount of $4050. This grant is for security for children’s programs and attendance at CBI. To receive the funds, CBI must raise $2025 by February 15, 2027 which will be matched by the Tepper Foundation. If you would like to support this effort, donations should be made directly to JFGT (not to CBI). Click on this link to make your donation: https://tinyurl.com/cbitepper or you can go to the donation page on the jewishtoledo.org website and click donate on the box named “CBI-Tepper Matching Security Grant Fund”.
Thank you for your support!
Remembering Our Loved Ones
For many of us, one of the most meaningful parts of our services during the High Holy Days is Yizkor on Yom Kippur. It is at that time when we turn our thoughts to our loved ones who have left this earth. We reflect upon their lives, as well as the lives of members of our congregation, and family and friends. In addition, we take the time to formally recognize the Martyrs of our people, especially the Six Million who were murdered during the Shoah, and those who gave their lives for Israel. Each year, we print a Yizkor Book which contains the Yizkor Service, a list of the synagogue’s Memorial Plaques, and a memorial to the Six Million and Israeli victims. Not only is this book substantial and permanent, but those who wish may take it home for use during the year.
I urge you to take advantage of this opportunity, as a way of remembering those dearest to us, and at the same time helping our congregation. An order form is printed below.
Shana Tova - A Blessed Year, Rabbi Aaron Marsh
Book - “In Remembrance”
The “IN REMEMBRANCE” section of the Yizkor book for 5787, includes a list of names submitted by our members and friends as personal memorials. A minimum contribution of $18.00 per memorial name/per donor. Please return the form below along with your check by Friday, August 14, 2026. If you wish to maintain your entry from last year, you need do nothing. The synagogue will bill you.
Names should be printed the way you wish them to appear in the program.
Photos from WCBI visit to the Ottawa Wildlife Refuge on Thursday, June 4, 2026
Photos from CBI Annual Meeting on Sunday, June 7, 2026
Tom Kasle, gives the "State of the Congregation" remarks
Rabbi Marsh recites the Invocation
Anne Bauer presents WCBI's contribution towards the new LegacyLink kiosk
Executive and new Board of Trustees are sworn in
Congregant of the Year Miriam Beckerman
Board Member of the Year Joshua Leizerman
Sam Schwartz Minyan Award Jeff Bauer
President's Award Roanne Katzman & Linda Moskowitz
Outgoing
Board Member Jim Wilson
Photos from the CBI 160th Anniversary Celebration on Sunday, July 12, 2026
TORAH PORTION OF THE WEEK
Join us each Friday morning to discuss and learn the weekly Torah portion with fellow CBI members and friends
Friday Mornings at 11 AM -12 PM,
In-Person at CBI except on Jewish holidays or otherwise notified
NO REGISTRATION NEEDED & A KNOWLEDGE OF TORAH IS NOT REQUIRED
Let's all learn together!
THIS PROGRAM IS OPEN TO THE MEMBERS OF ALL LOCAL CONGREGATIONS & GUESTS WITH RSVP
Volunteer to Help Hungry Children in Toledo
at Cherry Street Mission Building 1501 Monroe Street
Thursday, August 13, 2026 at 3:00 PM
We need 8-12 volunteers.
The volunteers will be putting together packages of food for children that live in the Toledo area.
RSVP to Kim Brody at kbrody@cbitoledo.org by Aug. 12th
Canasta at CBI: Tuesdays at 12:30 PM
Mahjong at CBI: Thursdays at 12:30 PM
BOTH PROGRAMS OPEN TO THE MEMBERS OF ALL LOCAL CONGREGATIONS & GUESTS WITH RSVP
Echoes of Vilna at the Glass Pavilion
This August, the Toledo Jewish community will gather for a theatrical event that transcends the stage to become an act of collective witness. On Sunday, August 9, 2026, at 2:00 PM, the Toledo Museum of Art’s Glass Pavilion will host a special staged reading of Echoes of Vilna. Recently honored by the Yad Vashem archives in Jerusalem and following acclaimed presentations at the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Interlochen Academy for the Arts, this powerful work finally arrives home to Toledo.
A sacred journey of resilience, Echoes of Vilna is far more than a historical drama; it is a profound exploration of courage, family, and the enduring Jewish spirit. At its core is the authentic diary of Yitskhok Rudashevski, a brilliant teenager in the Vilna Ghetto, and the historical account of his cousin, Sore Voloshin. Through a blend of poetry, music, and humor, the play reveals that our history is defined not just by tragedy, but by spiritual endurance.
Please Note: Seating at the Glass Pavilion is very limited. Because strong attendance is expected for this "one time only" event, we urge all synagogue members to pre-register for seats as early as possible. Presentation made possible with a grant from the Toledo Jewish Community Foundation.
Annual Meeting of
In-Person Kabbalat Shabbat Service
Friday, August 7, 2026, 6:00 PM at CBI
Join us for a meaningful in-person Mincha and Kabbalat Shabbat service.
RSVP to Kim Brody & Shira Hartman at kbrody@cbitoledo.org or call the office at 419.517.8400 by 2:00 PM, Friday, August 6th.
Light Apps and Pizza Dinner & In-Person Kabbalat Shabbat Services
Friday, August 21, 2026, 6:00 PM at CBI
Join us for a light dinner of appetizers for adults and pizza for the kids, followed by the Kabbalat Shabbat service. Kids are encouraged to participate in the service with Rabbi Marsh!
RSVP to Kim Brody & Shira Hartman at kbrody@cbitoledo.org or call the office at 419.517.8400 by Tuesday, August 18th.
SAVE THE DATE EVENT: WCBI Women's Day of Learning
Thursday, November 5, 2026
Details to follow in upcoming bulletins
Members*
Sunday, August 30, 2026
Free Event
Vegetarian dinner included
Yom HaShoah
Holocaust Remembrance Day Community Observance
RSVP Required by Monday, August 24 online at https://jftoledo.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/list/ ticket or with Sherry Majewski at 419-724-0351. The location will be emailed to registered participants 72 hours in advance of the event.
Featuring Sarah Hurwitz, Author, As a Jew: Reclaiming our Story from Those Who Blame, Shame Us, and Try to Erase Us
Books will be available for purchase at the event, and Sarah Hurwitz will be signing copies.
5:45 - Doors Open/Registration
6:15 p.m. - Dinner
6:45 p.m. - Remarks/Business Meeting
7:15 p.m. - Main Event featuring Sarah Hurwitz
Speeches from our Confirmands, Cecilia Bringman and Sophia Chernow delivered at CBI
Confirmation Services, Friday, May 8, 2026
Speech by Cecilia Bringman:
Today marks an important step in my Jewish journey, to me this is a big accomplishment. I put in lots of hard work over the years to get to this point and to have the opportunity to be confirmed. This shows how much I've grown as a Jewish person and how far I've come. Being confirmed is only just the start of my journey.
Throughout my time preparing for this day I've had the chance to think more about what being Jewish means to me personally and learning some of the values. There were definitely moments when I wondered, “Why do I need to learn this?” But somewhere along the way that changed. I realized that this isn't about having everything memorized or getting everything perfect which is great for me. It’s more about thinking for yourself and what this means in your own life.
Growing up, I was never around anyone who was Jewish. In elementary school, around Christmas time, my teachers would ask if someone in my family would come in and talk about Judaism. So then I could have something special to me. My Bubbie would be the one to usually come into my class to talk to everyone. When she would come, she brought things to share with the class. One time it was jelly donuts, other times it was dreidels and gelt. I think that all of this made me realize how important it is to be Jewish and it felt good to be able to share it with others. This showed me the traditions I need to carry forward and the history behind it.
My family has played such an important role in guiding me along my Jewish journey. Through their support I've learned what it means to live a meaningful Jewish life. They’ve shown me the importance of love and connection. Especially through my sisters, I've learned lessons you can’t get from books, like how to listen, compromise, and care for others even when it’s not easy. Judaism teaches us about patience and honestly, I think having two little sisters was my extra assignment. If I can survive everyday with them, I think I'm pretty prepared for the rest of my Jewish journey. This experience has taught me that being Jewish isn’t just something you are, it’s something you keep working on. I’ve also learned that learning never really ends, which is great…I think.
The other day, one of my sisters asked me for help with a slideshow project. It wasn’t a huge thing, but it actually meant a lot to me. Usually, I’m the one asking for help, so for her to rely on me felt different, in a good way. That helped me understand that those values aren't just big ideas, they show up everyday. Taking the time to help, and be there for someone else is a way of living those values, and it’s something I want to keep doing.
One Jewish value that stood out to me is Bikkur Holim, which means visiting the sick. While doing and putting together my confirmation project I was modeling Bikkur Holim
My Zayde passed away due to cancer, I never got to meet him but it still impacted my life, so for my confirmation project I put together cancer care kits. Cancer care kits are filled with things that people can use during their time in recovery. Some things that were in these kits were chapstick, gum, coloring books, crosswords, etc. I chose to do this for my project because I want to help people and their families get through this. With putting these kits together, I asked for donations for the supplies needed, I got lots of donations and I am grateful that there were people willing to help. My best friend even came over to help make sure I had all my supplies. My original goal was to make at
least 10 cancer care kits, I ended up having enough to make 15, which I was very happy about reaching.
Right now, I go to Sunday school almost every Sunday. I go to the morning services and participate in those services. At home, we celebrate the holidays and do some of the traditions. Finishing Sunday school means I'm moving onto the real test, except there's no quiz to study for, and no right or wrong answer. As I take these steps, I want today to remind me to think about my everyday choices. Not just in the big moments, but also in the small decisions I make, so I can carry the lessons I’ve learned with me everywhere I go. That’s what I plan to do after Sunday school.
I used to think Sunday school was just something I had to show up for once a week, but looking back, I realized it shaped a lot of who I am today. It taught me the importance of showing up, staying connected and remembering that I'm part of something bigger. I may not remember everything I've learned, but I'll carry those values with me and I'm grateful for that.
If there's one thing I've learned about myself through all of this is that I've grown more than I expected. I come in not always sure where I fit or how much this would matter to me, but over time, I think I found my place. I’m still deciding what kind of person I want to be, and my identity is something I get to keep shaping.
I still can’t believe how far I have come on this journey. I know that it doesn't end here, it’s only the beginning. Thank you to everyone who has supported me and helped me reach this point in my life. I think it’s safe to say that I'm no longer afraid of speaking in front of people now. I am excited to keep growing, learning and carrying my Jewish identity forward.
Speech by Sophia Chernow:
Standing here today, surrounded by the people who have shaped my Jewish life, I feel deeply grateful and proud to have reached this milestone. When I first started preparing for Confirmation, I thought it would just be another step in Sunday School. But somewhere between the discussions, the questions, and the laughter, I realized this moment means much more than I had expected.
For as long as I can remember we have been more of a traditional family. This means I grew up with certain traditions we do to this day. Like making hamantaschen with my great-grandmother’s recipe. Also having Friday night dinners at my grandparent's house. You all know my grandmother Judy Weinberg and how she always welcomes anyone in her home for holiday dinners. The holidays were made even more special when I went to synagogue with my saba. During the services, we would talk and play the glove game. It is a game where one person has an oversized puffy glove and they put a finger out and the other person tries to guess what fingers the person pulled out. Also on Friday nights Saba and I would discuss what was happening in Israel, since I would read and listen to some of the Israeli news and he would listen to the news in Hebrew. For Friday night we always have a salad that I ended up making. I would also do all the chopping of the vegetables for Passover. These traditions have shaped me more than I have realized.
When it came time to choose my confirmation project, I knew I wanted to do something that helped and supported the people of this community.
Religious School Principal, Kim Brody, Retires After 23 Years of Dedication to Congregation B'nai Israel
Message from Kim Brody:
Congregation B’nai Israel holds a profound place in my heart. I have been part of this community my entire life, as were my parents and grandparents. While making the decision to retire was incredibly difficult it is what is best for me and my family at this time. It is now time for me to take on more of our family travel business and be with family. Thank you for putting your trust in me for the past 23 years. It has been a deep privilege to watch our David S. Stone Religious School students grow and develop strong Jewish identities during their years at CBI. Our students are blessed to be in the most capable hands of Shira.
I will see you all in shul. - Kim
Sophia Chernow's Speech, cont.
That’s why I decided to volunteer with Connecting Kids to Meals and Burrito Blessings. Now you might be wondering why I chose these places to volunteer? I chose Connecting Kids to Meals because my Noni and I would go in the summers after work and we always ended up being the last ones to leave. So I reached out to them because I know about the organization and knew that all of the hard work would be worth it. I mentioned earlier that I also volunteer for Burrito Blessings. I know people are asking what in the world is Burrito Blessings. We meet once a month at a church to make burritos. Then we take them downtown, along with donations, and hand them out to people who may not have as much as we do. I chose Burrito Blessings because I wanted to help people directly — to physically hand someone food or supplies and know I made a difference in that moment. This is an example of one of the many important values in Judaism, "azar". It translates to helping or supporting others.
Now that I’ve successfully proven I can stand here without tripping over the bimah, I’d like to switch gears and talk about something else. My Jewish identity. My Jewish identity means a lot to me. After I am confirmed I will continue to go to shul on Saturdays and holidays. I will also keep going to my noni’s house for Friday night dinner. I will also try to go to morning services on Sundays, even though I would rather be in bed. My Jewish identity has shaped my life so much and it will continue to shape my life even after I am confirmed. I will also keep volunteering and helping out in the community. I will never stop listening to the Israeli news, even though I don’t have my Saba to discuss it with.
So, as I wrap this up, I guess this is the moment where I officially confirm my Jewish identity — like my love for babka. Today isn’t just about finishing a program; it’s about choosing to stay connected to something bigger than myself. I am very grateful for everyone who has helped me get to this point. I am also very grateful for the patience people have had with me. Honestly, I don’t think I could have put up with my own mishegas. My Jewish journey will continue to grow, like the challah my aunt makes every Friday night. And if I ever get lost, I’ll follow the smell of brisket and find my way home. Shabbat Shalom.
CBI Welcomes
Shira Hartman, New David S. Stone Religious School Facilitator & Program Coordinator
Shira Hartman is a dedicated Jewish communal professional with a strong background in community building, leadership development, education, and Israel engagement. She holds a dual Master’s degree in Education and Jewish Professional Leadership from Brandeis University’s Hornstein Program, where she deepened her passion for fostering meaningful connections and collaboration across diverse communities.
Born in Israel and raised in Boston, Shira’s connection to Judaism and Israel was shaped by her Israeli family and her involvement in programs such as Tzofim–Israeli Scouts, Birthright Israel, and Onward Israel. After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and Marketing from Simmons University in 2016, she served in the IDF’s International Relations Division, where she gained valuable experience in diplomacy and global engagement.
Throughout her career, Shira has held a variety of leadership roles within the Jewish community, including serving as the IACT Director at Northeastern Hillel, where she focused on Israel engagement and education on campus; an Education Advisor for the Israeli-American Council’s New England region; and the Israel Educator at The Rashi School in the Boston area. She also worked in Israel as a project manager and development professional, further strengthening her expertise in strategic planning, relationship building, and community engagement.
After relocating from Tel Aviv to Ohio with her husband, Roy Büchler, Shira continues to bring her passion for Jewish community building, leadership, and Israel engagement to her work and volunteer involvement. Roy serves as the Director of the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) at the Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo, and together they are proud to be active members of the local Toledo Jewish community. Shira is committed to creating welcoming and meaningful opportunities that inspire the next generation of Jewish leaders and strengthen Jewish communities.
David S. Stone Religious School August 2026
8/30
School - 9 AM - 12 PM
CONTRIBUTION LEVELS:
B’nai Mitzvah contribution
Chai contribution
Silver contribution
Double Chai contribution
Gold contribution
Platinum contribution
Platinum Chai contribution
Double Platinum contribution
Sapphire contribution
Dbl Platinum Chai contribution
Ruby contribution
Emerald contribution
Diamond contribution
$13
$18
$25
$36
$50
$100
$180
$200
$250
$360
$500
$750
$1000+
All contributions listed were made on or before July 15, 2026
Building Beautification Fund
YAHRZEIT:
- PLATINUMKen Alexander Dolores Alexander
Camp Ramah Fund
IN MEMORY OF:
- SILVER -
Diana Lipszyc Kathryn Linver
SPEEDY RECOVERY:
- CHAI -
Bruce Post, Speedy Recovery
Katherine Linver
Harry Gometz Fund
YAHRZEIT:
- CHAI -
Martin Davis Hope & Greg Davis & Family &
Hiddur/Kiddush Fund
IN HONOR OF:
- B'NAI MITZVAH -
Nora Romanoff & Eli Abramson, Special Anniversary Rhoda Miller
- SILVER -
Ted Miller, Special Birthday
Nora Romanoff & Eli Abramson
SPEEDY RECOVERY:
- DOUBLE CHAI -
Bruce Post, Speedy Recovery
Sharon Hoicowitz & Hoicowitz & Ken Adler Ken
IN MEMORY OF:
Hiddur/Kiddush Fund (cont.)
- B'NAI MITZVAH -
YAHRZEIT:
Eve Friedman, Beloved Aunt Rhoda Miller
- CHAI -
Carol Sacks Sharon & Sanford Stein
L. A. Miller, Jr. Rhoda Miller & Family Rhoda Miller
- SILVER -
Leroy Rosenberg
Henrietta Rosenberg Ann & Howard Rosenberg Ann &
Eunice Freedman Lori & David Friedes Lori &
Cal & Art Katz Fund
YAHRZEIT:
- SILVER -
E. Mitchell Kaufman Susan & Steve Kaufman Susan &
- GOLD -
Jan Katz
Laney, Sheila, & Marci Sheila, & Marci
Sherwin & Naomi Kripke Fund
IN MEMORY OF:
- B'NAI MITZVAH -
Stewart Friedman Ann Levison
YAHRZEIT:
- GOLD -
Naomi Kripke Stacey & Harley Kripke
Boris Brauer, Beloved Father, Grandfather, & Great-Grandfather Eleanor Golding & Family
Library Fund
YAHRZEIT:
- CHAI -
Samuel Mann
Jean Mann Jan Mann Schott Jan Schott
Marian & Stanley Oberlin Fund
- B'NAI MITZVAH -
YAHRZEIT:
Ida Schall, Beloved Mother
Susan & Alan Schall
Rabbi's Discretionary Fund
IN APPRECIATION:
- CHAI -
Rabbi Marsh, In Appreciation
- GOLD -
Neal & Lisa Intrater & Family Neal
Rabbi Marsh, In Appreciation Elisheva Reut Reut
YAHRZEIT:
- CHAI -
Howard Smith Rene' & Rich Rusgo & Family
- SILVER -
Mollie Schall Green Janet Steinberg & Family Janet
Shalim Meylakhov
Mariya Meylakhov Galina & Val Kagan Galina
- DOUBLE CHAI -
Calvin Lieberman, Beloved Father
Rabbi's Discretionary Fund
YAHRZEIT:
- DOUBLE CHAI -
(cont.)
Nathan Post Sheila, Bruce, Jordon & & Brynna Post
Religious School Fund
YAHRZEIT:
- PLATINUM -
Mervin Russell, Beloved Father Corey Russell
Safety
&
Security Fund
IN HONOR OF:
- B'NAI MITZVAH -
Carol & Bill Richman, New Grandson Samuel Susan Richards
- DOUBLE CHAI -
Nora Romanoff & Eli Abramson, Special Anniversary Debbie & Stu Diamond, Ilana & Michael
IN APPRECIATION:
- PLATINUMIn Appreciation of CBI Elisheva Reut Reut
YAHRZEIT:
- CHAI -
David Scheer Kathy & Marvin Scheer & Marvin Scheer
- SILVERRose & Bill Hirsch Cathy and Steve Sperling
Richard Zanville Sue & Joel Zanville
- DOUBLE CHAI -
Maurice Zanville Sue & Joel Zanville
Phyllis Bernstein Richard Bernstein & Family Richard Bernstein &
- PLATINUM -
David Scheer Marianne Scheer & Family Marianne Scheer
Abe & Dorothy Steinberg SKIP Fund
IN HONOR OF:
- CHAI -
Nancy & Nate Danziger, Special Anniversary Betty Goldstein IN MEMORY OF:
- B'NAI MITZVAHDiana Lipszyc Betty Goldstein
- SILVERDiana Lipszyc Doris & Buz Steinberg
YAHRZEIT:
- CHAIDorothy Steinberg, Beloved Mother & Grandmother Nancy Beren, Mark & Jeff Fetterman Fetterman
Joseph Beren Nancy Beren
Tribute Fund
IN HONOR OF:
- DOUBLE CHAINora Romanoff & Eli Abramson, Special Anniversary Kay & Ted Miller Kay & Ted Miller
SPEEDY RECOVERY:
- GOLD -
Diana Lipszyc Gayle & Bob Retske
Ann & Howard Rosenberg Ann &
Sadie Lieberman, Beloved Mother
Karen Lieberman & Bruce Lieberman
- CHAIBruce Post, Speedy Recovery
Margie & Mel Siegel Margie &
August 1 - 18 Av
Idah Fine
Renee Quiroga
Tan Wengrow
Charlotte Leibovitz
August 2 - 19 Av
Shirley Liber
Hesel Cuznir
Julie Lazar
Rebecca Kaplan
August 3 - 20 Av
Mark Brunswick
Dr. H. Neil Karp
Max Sattinger
August 4 - 21 Av
Esther Miller
Herman Goldner
August 5 - 22 Av
Adrienne Silverman
Kenneth Kaplan
Harry Garfinkel
Gayle Kaback
Julius Rosenfeld
Betty Smith
Ahuda Zaliouk
Eve Friedman
Harry Petler
Dora Roisman
August 6 - 23 Av
Barney Jacobs
Victor Alzfan
Joseph Strassner
Joseph Friedman
Richard Lascherer
August 7 - 24 Av
Jerome H. Fink
Richard Zanville
Seymour Greenspoon
Kyle Schwartz
Anne Walker
August 7 - 24 Av cont
Mickey Levy Sokobin
Rose Hamerman
August 8 - 25 Av
Sada Loebelson
Ida Cohen
Terrie Brunswick
David Kerper
August 9 - 26 Av
Sandra Levy
Philip A Hendel
Barry Shenofsky
William T. Unger
August 10 - 27 Av
Morton Mallin
Sadie Bustow
Abraham Beckerman
Anna Mainwold
Marcia Grimson
Bessie Graf Rosenbloom
Max Katz
Minnie Remer
August 11 - 28 Av
Joseph Chasin
Samuel Laderman
David A. Fettman
Andrew Winter
Anna Phillips
Morris Karp
Aaron Levison
August 12 - 29 Av
Rebecca Gittel Kasle
Elsie Siegman
Leona Davis Soldinger
Mervyn Russell
Ira Levison
Arlynne Gold
Goldie Sakheim
Tribute Fund (cont.)
SPEEDY RECOVERY:
- CHAI -
Susan Roth, Speedy Recovery
Arlene & Jerry Russell Russell & Family &
IN MEMORY OF:
- CHAI -
Barbara Treuhaft Kay & Ted Miller Kay & Ted Miller
David Weinberg Education Fund (cont.) IN MEMORY OF:
- B'NAI MITZVAH -
Diana Lipszyc Cheryl & Bob Berkowitz
Phyllis & Charles Wittenberg
Irina & Greg Zaurov Irina &
Karen McQuade Karen
Arlene & Jerry Russell Russell
- SILVER -
Diana Lipszyc Angie & Jack Katz Katz
- DOUBLE CHAI -
Diana Lipszyc Jan & Tom Kasle Jan & Tom Kasle
- B'NAI MITZVAH -
YAHRZEIT:
Julia Rubenstein, Beloved Sister
Mervyn Russell, Beloved Brother
Goldie Siegman, Beloved Mother
Julia Altman, Beloved Grandmother
Elsie Siegman, Beloved Grandmother
- CHAI -
Cary Kart
- PLATINUM -
Sylvia Rosenberg
Arlene & Jerry Russell Russell
Michelle Kart
Jerry Moskowitz Linda & Howard Moskowitz
Rhoda Ruddie, Beloved Mother
Carol & Bill Richman
CBI Weekly Services Schedule
Mon. & Thurs. Morning Minyan 8:00 AM - In Person/Zoom
Monday ~ Thursday Evening Minyan 5:45 PM Zoom
Friday Evening Kabbalat Shabbat 5:45 PM *Zoom
*Except during In-person services - then In-person & Live Stream
Saturday Morning Shabbat
9:30 AM - In Person/Live Stream
Shabbat Mincha 12:45 PM - In-Person/Live Steam
Sunday Morning Minyan 9:00 AM - *Zoom
*Zoom & In-person when religious school is in session
The link and passcode for weekday Zoom services is included in the Wednesday Update email sent to all CBI members.
If you need the information resent to you, email gmallin@cbitoledo.org with your request.
Process for Funeral Arrangements and Other Life Cycle Events
If a death occurs and you need to make funeral arrangements, your first call should be to the funeral director. The funeral home will contact CBI staff to make the necessary arrangements, including notifying the rabbi. The rabbi will then contact you to set up a meeting to gather information and plan the funeral.
Please bear in mind the Rabbi does not have his phone on him during Shabbat and Yom Tov, but he will respond as soon as he is able after Shabbat or Yom Tov ends.
To schedule and plan other life cycle events, you should call the synagogue office at 419-517-8400 during office hours (M-F, 9-3). Staff members can give you the Rabbi’s number or will give the Rabbi your information and he will return your call.
YAHRZEIT NOTICES...
If you are not receiving a yahrzeit notice for a friend or relative and would like one sent annually, please call the office at 419-517-8400. We will need the English date of death.
FJMC Fundraiser Raffle
The Raffle prize is a framed art print of Jews in baseball. The artwork includes the images and facsimile signature of 26 players, including Sandy Kaufax, Hank Greenburg and Al Rosen. The print is valued at $500 and raffle tickets are $20 each.
To purchase raffle tickets, contact Dale Levy at adulted@cbitoledo.org.
How to access CBI Live Stream Services
On your Computer, Tablet or Cell Phone:
• Go to the CBI website, cbitoledo.org.
• At the top of the home page click on "Live Stream".
• When the page opens, you will be connected to the CBI live stream service.
On your Television:
You can also access the live stream services through your television if you have a "smart" TV, Roku or streaming stick which gives you access to YouTube.
• Click on the YouTube icon on your TV.
• When YouTube opens, search for "Congregation B'nai Israel - Sylvania, Ohio".
• Be sure to click on the listing that has the photo with Jewish star (see photo above).
• We recommend that you "subscribe" to the channel so you can easily locate the live stream for future services. We also highly recommend connecting to the live stream services on your TV as it is the most immersive and closest experience, short of being in the synagogue.
How to access CBI Zoom Programs & Services
• Check your email for the Zoom link and password for CBI Zoom services.
• Click on the link in the body of the email.
• If you have never used Zoom, you will be prompted to follow steps to download it on your computer.
• After that is successful, click on the link provided in the email, type in the provided password and you will be connected to the Zoom service.
A link and passcode will be emailed to congregants.
CBI Gift Shop
Visit the CBI Gift Shop for all of your Shabbat,Holiday, and gift-giving needs.
