Tammuz/Av/Elul 5785
The Shofar
July/August 2025
We Must Save Earth’s Wildlife In Order to Save Ourselves
From Science Sensei by Trista
“In the intricate web of life, every species plays a crucial role. As we face unprecedented environmental challenges, the urgency to protect Earth's wildlife has never been more apparent. Our own survival is inextricably linked to the health of our planet's ecosystems. Without the birds, bees, forests, and seas, humanity stands to lose more than just biodiversity. We could face food shortages, economic instability, and the collapse of essential natural services. As stewards of this planet, it is our responsibility to act swiftly and decisively. Saving wildlife is not just about preserving beauty it's about ensuring a sustainable future for all.
Biodiversity is the backbone of the ecosystem services that sustain human life. Pollination, a natural process carried out by bees and other insects, is essential for the production of fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Without these pollinators, our food supply would be at risk. Similarly, wetlands and forests play a vital role in water purification, filtering pollutants and ensuring clean water flows. These natural processes, fueled by a diverse array of species, provide us with critical resources we often take for granted. Protecting biodiversity means preserving these indispensable services that support our daily lives.
Wildlife plays a critical role in maintaining ecological balance. Predators, for example, help regulate prey populations, preventing any single species from becoming overly dominant. This control is essential for keeping ecosystems healthy and functional. Without wolves, deer populations can explode, leading to overgrazing and devastation of vegetation. Similarly, keystone species, such as sea otters, maintain the structure of their ecosystems by controlling sea urchin populations, thus preserving kelp forests. By safeguarding wildlife, we ensure that these natural checks and balances remain in effect, supporting diverse and thriving ecosystems.
Wildlife tourism significantly contributes to global economies, offering livelihoods to millions and funding for conservation. Tourists flock to natural reserves and national parks, eager to witness majestic creatures in their natural habitats. This influx of visitors generates substantial revenue, supporting local communities and businesses. In many countries, wildlife tourism is a vital economic pillar. Moreover, the funds raised through entrance fees and guided tours are often reinvested in conservation efforts, creating a sustainable cycle of protection and prosperity. By saving wildlife, we nurture economic growth and preserve natural wonders for future generations.
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Nature has long been a source of medicinal breakthroughs, providing compounds that have led to the development of numerous life-saving drugs. Many modern medicines, including aspirin and penicillin, originate from plants and fungi. The Amazon rainforest alone is a treasure trove of untapped potential, housing thousands of undiscovered species that could hold the key to future cures. Preserving wildlife and their habitats is essential to maintaining this natural pharmacy. As we protect these ecosystems, we not only safeguard biodiversity but also ensure that we can continue to explore and benefit from nature's medicinal bounty.
Wildlife plays a pivotal role in climate regulation, acting as natural moderators of Earth's climate systems. Forests, supported by diverse species, are vital for carbon sequestration, capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and mitigating climate change. Animals like elephants and large herbivores maintain forest health by spreading seeds and promoting plant growth, ensuring these ecosystems continue to thrive. Additionally, marine life, such as phytoplankton and sea grasses, also contribute to carbon absorption in oceans. By conserving wildlife, we bolster these natural processes that are essential for sustaining a balanced climate.
Indicator species serve as vital barometers of environmental health, offering early warnings for emerging ecological issues. Amphibians, like frogs, are particularly sensitive to changes in their environment due to their permeable skin, making them excellent indicators of water quality and pollution levels. The decline of such species often signals broader ecological disturbances. Similarly, birds can reflect changes in air quality and habitat integrity. By monitoring these indicator species, we gain crucial insights into the well-being of ecosystems, allowing for timely interventions and the prevention of further environmental degradation.
Genetic diversity within wildlife populations is crucial for adaptation and resilience in the face of environmental changes. A rich genetic pool allows species to adapt to new challenges, such as climate shifts, diseases, and habitat alterations. This diversity enhances the ability of species to survive and thrive under varying conditions. When genetic diversity is lost, populations become vulnerable to extinction due to reduced adaptability. Conserving wildlife not only protects individual species but also preserves the genetic variations necessary for long-term ecosystem stability and the adaptation of life on Earth.
Wildlife and biodiversity are integral to global food security, providing essential services that sustain agriculture. Pollinators like bees and butterflies are critical for the fertilization of many crops, directly influencing the yield and quality of our food supply. The presence of diverse species in agricultural ecosystems enhances productivity and resilience. Furthermore, natural predators help control pest populations, reducing the need for chemical pesticides which can harm the environment. Protecting wildlife ensures the continued availability of these natural services, supporting sustainable agriculture and securing food resources for future generations.”
A Note from Jo Ann Howard, President
It is so important for us to heed the words of this article. Remember, God created the Earth for us, and it is our obligation –tikkun olam – to repair and protect our world. Think of all the ways we can do this: Plant our own pollinator gardens; support agencies that protect wildlife and their
environments; write to or meet with our legislators to have protective bills passed; take a look at our own actions to make sure we’re not adding to the problem; talk with other people and stress the concerns of this article..
May Their Memories Be a Blessing
– Abe Koplen
Henry Rubin
B. Kushner
11– Julian S. Sater
–
– Rose Schein Manheim
12– Fannie Kirsten Platt
– Mamie Zietz Singer
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Bessie Halperin Jaiven
Rabbi David M. Kushner
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JULY
When lighting the Yahrzeit candle, you can recite the following prayer: The human soul is a light from God. May it be your will that the soul of (insert name) enjoy eternal life, along with the souls of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah, and the rest of the righteous that are in Gan Eden. Amen
Let’s Welcome Shabbat Together
(In the chapel at First Presbyterian Church)
Friday, 4th Shabbat Service not scheduled (Torah reading: Chukkat – Numbers 19:1 – 22:1)
Friday, 11th 7:30 p.m. Shabbat Service
Friday, 18th Shabbat Service not scheduled (Torah reading: Pinchas – Numbers 25:10 – 30:1)
Friday, 25th 7:30 p.m. Shabbat Service
Friday, 1st 7:30 p.m. Shabbat Service
Friday, 8th Shabbat Service not scheduled
Torah reading: Vaetchanan– Deuteronomy 3:23 – 7:11
Friday, 15th 7:30 p.m. Shabbat Service
Friday, 22nd 7:30 p.m. Shabbat Service
Friday, 29th Shabbat Service not scheduled
(Torah reading: Shoftim – Deuteronomy 16:18 – 21:9)
Important Dates in September and October
September 22nd Erev Rosh Hashanah Service
September 23rd Rosh Hashanah Service
October 1st Kol Nidre/Erev Yom Kippur Service
October 2nd Yom Kippur Services
Dates for Sukkot and Simchat Torah services will be included in the September/October calendar.
WITH OUR CONGREGATION
(If you would like information printed in this section, please let Jo Ann know.)
Best wishes to Michael Caplan and Eddy Fraifeld, who have both retired. We hope you both will now have time on your hands to spend time with family and friends. Your expertise, caring hearts, and long hours of devotion have meant so much to hundreds of patients and to your respective medical fields.
Our heartfelt sympathy has been extended to Jackson (Alary) Loper Wingate and Don Loper on the recent death of Lynne Steinberg on June 18. May her memory be for a blessing. Thank you to those
of you who were able to attend Lynne’s funeral. Donations may be made to Hadassah (either send a check to Jo Ann, or donate on line: donate.hadassah.org and designate credit to Danville Hadassah), the World Wildlife Fund (https://wwfdonate.panda.org/support_wwf/) or Temple Beth Sholom.
Our heartfelt sympathy has been extended to the Silverman family on the recent death of Keith Silverman on June 23. He was the husband of Donna Silverman and son of the late Alvin and Trudy Silverman. Donations have been suggested for the Alvin & Trudy Silverman Scholarship for Humanities, Arts, & Sciences through the Community Foundation, Chad Tough Defeat DIPG Foundation (chadtough.org), or the charitable organization of your choice.
Our wishes for good health are extended to Bernard Baker, Mildred Barth, Mira Becher, Carol Caplan, Joe Eisenberg, Eddy Fraifeld, Larry Golsen, Faye Kushner, Don Loper, Debbie Rippe, and Kathy Sahale.
BIRTHDAYS AND ANNIVERSARIES
Yom Huledet Sameach/Yom Nisuin Sameach – Happy Birthday/Happy Anniversary to you:
July Birthdays: 6 – Jason Eisner; 10 – Susan Dufour; 15 – Faye Kushner; 18 – Estelle Mills; 21 – Mark Stanley; 28 – Alex Eisner
July Anniversary: 22 – Karen and Paul Mandel
August Birthdays: 3 – Sam Kushner; 15 – Diane Krome; 15 – Kathy Sahale; 18 – Noah Kramer; 23 – John Lantor; 29 – Matt Harris
August Anniversary: 20 – Joan and Eddy Fraifeld
“Attention is the rarest and purest form of generosity.” Uplift another congregant’s spirits by giving them a call or sending them a card, email or text! It only takes a few minutes and it will make a big difference in their day and yours!
Temple Beth Sholom Donations
Please remember the Building Fund for such things as Sympathy, Mazel Tov, Thank You, and Speedy Recovery. The list is endless. Your contribution will brighten someone’s day and help support YOUR temple at the same time!
Ann Anderson – In honor of the Hebrew Naming Ceremony of her children Kayla (Hadassah Lenora) and Joshua (Hosea Levi) which was held on May 9th
Rhoda Strulowitz – Thank you to Temple Beth Sholom for the Hebrew Naming Ceremony for my niece and nephew, Kayla and Joshua Gunter
Bonnie and Mike Eisenman – In honor of Mildred Barth’s 98th birthday
Jo Ann and Peter Howard – In honor of Mildred Barth’s 98th birthday
In memory of Lynne Steinberg
Jimmy Adkins –May: Wishes for a Happy Shavuot to the Temple Beth Sholom Congregation
June: “Let the peace of Adonai rule our hearts in all things showing grace and mercy to the world as a light shining brightly in darkness.”
Bernard and Belinda Baker – In memory of Lynne Steinberg and Keith Silverman
In honor of Mildred Barth’s 98th birthday;
Bernard Baker - Thank you to Jo Ann and Peter Howard for everything you do for me.
Ronnie and Steven Mand – In memory of Lynne Steinberg
Under the Dust
By Sam Kushner
I was driving by the Temple on a Saturday morning, and spotted Mike. He had a brush in his hand, and was painting the door at the top of the handicap ramp. I got out of my car, and Mike motioned to me to join him. After greeting each other, he asked, “Would you like to see what’s going on inside?”
“Sure”, I said, and followed him into the Temple.
Mike turned on the lights, and we walked into the sanctuary. What a sad, sad sight. The plaster of the east wall toward which we pray has been turned into powder, and lies on the carpet. I knew from Mike’s report to the Temple Board that moisture trapped in the sanctuary has dissolved the plaster. If we plan to return to the Temple, the moisture problem must be resolved.
I looked around at the pews, the old organ, and at the bima. All were covered with dust. Then I saw it: On one of the small tables flanking the lectern sat a large brown book – the “Temple Bible.” It had sat there forever, yet I had never seen it lifted from the table, nor had I ever heard anyone read from it.
I approached, and wiped the dust from the cover. The inscription read as follows:
Presented
to Beth Sholom Synagogue
By Louis L. Kaufman
In Loving Memory of his wife Amelia H. Kaufman
I remembered that the Kaufman family operated a men’s clothing company at the bottom of Main St., next door to Silverman’s, another clothier. I recalled, as well, that the Kaufmans were in business with the Hoffman family. Had Amelia Kaufman been a Hoffman?
I
opened the book, turned several pages, and found a beautifully hand written page which reads as follows:
Prayer
Lord of the shadow-browed mountains, God of the rolling seas, Molder of life immortal Thy creator – have mercy on me.
Unknowingly came I hither Unwittingly hence I go
Through the narrow house and darkness To what? – I do not know.
Everywhere doubt and misgiving, But under Thy chastening rod, I pray for the strength and the faith to see Only thy love – Oh, God.
Judge me not by my merit; Forgive what thou hast made; Undeserving, I kneel before thee Lord, make me unafraid.
By Amelia H Kaufman
After reading this prayer a second time, I wondered whether Mrs. Kaufman wrote it as she approached the end of her life. It is a treasure rediscovered.
I hope that soon after we return to our restored Temple, Jo Ann will lift that heavy volume, place it on the lectern, and read to us Mrs. Kaufman’s affirmation of hope and faith. May her words, so many years after her passing, inspire us to rededicate ourselves to the Temple and to our beloved faith.
Editor’s Note: A mystery has been solved! In all the records I had looked in previously, Louis Kaufman’s wife had been identified as Mrs. Louis Kaufman – even on the memorial board! Now we know her beautiful name, Amelia.
A Little Humor is Good for the Soul!
Believe it or not, all of these puns were found on signs!
Great hide & seek players Are hard to find
Hadassah Danville News
Happy 98 Birthday to Mildred Barth!
Lynne Steinberg
December 28, 1953 — June 18, 2025
Lynne Steinberg, 71, passed away on June 18, 2025. She was born to the late Albert Steinberg and Sylvia Baker Steinberg on December 28, 1953.
She loved to read and dance - finding joy in a good book and the rhythm of beautiful music. She was well known for her fierce sense of integrity and never hesitated to voice what she believed was right. A true steward of nature, she believed in justice for the planet and all its inhabitants human and animal alike. Lynne was an active member of the Temple Beth Sholom in Danville, VA for decades. Her Jewish faith was a guiding light throughout her life, and she was deeply committed to her local community, offering her time, support, and heart wherever it was needed
She is survived by her husband Donald Loper, daughter Jackson Wingate, and brothers Michael Steinberg, Richard Ben Avram, and Brian Steinberg.
