One of the Most Important Jobs at Our Synagogue
Our future begins in their classrooms
Family
Chanukah Celebration for Families
Sunday, December 14
5:00 – 7:00 PM
Bellevue campus
IN ADDITION...
We invite you to join us for virtual candlelight ceremonies throughout the holiday season—stay tuned for exact dates and more details!
SENIOR LEADERSHIP
Daniel A. Weiner, Senior Rabbi
Brett C. Weisman, Associate Rabbi
Jeffrey Silverstein, Assistant Rabbi
OFFICERS
Mike Ehrenberg, President
Ted Nelson, Treasurer
Steve Schwartz, Secretary
Jerry Dunietz, Vice President
Sarah Quint, Vice President
Alison Handlin, Immediate Past President
STAFF
Merav Canaan, Director of Operations
Jessie Cunningham, Director of Jennifer Rosen Meade Preschool
Stacey Frishman Delcau, Director of Education
Zinka Galusic, Director of Finance
Leah Levy, Director of Engagement for Families with Young Children
Barb Maduell, Senior Director of Capital Campaign & Major Gifts
Hallie Santo, Director of Advancement
Rabbi Kate Speizer, Director of Adult Engagement
Meyrav Altaras, Education Team Administrative Assistant
Nathalie Austin, Membership Manager
Katy Bourne, Executive Assistant
Robin Fern, Youth Engagement Coordinator
Abby Gallin, Database Administrator
Tony Garcia, Cemetery Caretaker
Jennifer Gould, Staff Accountant
Vincent Greene, Facilities Lead
Elisa Harris, Senior Accountant
Talya Kurland, Marketing Manager
Rachel Martin, B’nai Mitzvah Coordinator
Josh Niehaus, Artist-in-Residence
A. Zelle Rettman Nimni, Annual Giving Manager
Ruth Oskolkoff, Office Manager
Jennifer Phillips, Executive Assistant to the Clergy
Assistant Director of Jennifer Rosen Meade Preschool Assistant Director of Education
Assistant Director, Hebrew & Teen Programming
Communications & Marketing Coordinator
Produced quarterly by Temple De Hirsch Sinai 1511 East Pike Street, Seattle, WA 98122
3850 156th Avenue SE, Bellevue, WA 98006 publications@tdhs-nw.org | www.tdhs-nw.org
A new portal into the sanctuary will demarcate entry into sacred space. Go to page 23 for more construction updates and photos.
TEMPLE E-TIDINGS
Each week, Temple sends out an email newsletter, which gives an overview of our upcoming services, news, events, and programs. Email publications@tdhs-nw.org to subscribe. SOCIAL MEDIA
Follow Temple on Facebook (/templedehirschsinai) and Instagram (@templedehirschsinai)
THANK YOU TO OUR 2025-26 SPONSORS!
Looking for the right opportunity for your business or group? Contact Hallie Santo, Director of Advancement, at hsanto@tdhs-nw.org
Sponsorships at Temple
Sponsorships are a win-win for your business and for Temple! We have two exciting sponsorship opportunities for 2025-26:
Sponsor a Shabbat preneg to introduce your business to our community. Scan QR to Choose a date!
Join our corporate sponsorship program to have your business featured in Temple communications.
Letter from Our Board President
By Mike Ehrenberg
Dear friends,
Fall is always a lively time at Temple, and it has been a pleasure to see so many of you over the past few months. This season, we have so much to be thankful for: being together during the High Holy Days while our Seattle campus is under construction; the many guest speakers who have enriched our community in recent weeks; and of course, the release of the remaining hostages. Thank you to everyone who joined us in person and online this season, and to Temple’s clergy and staff for making these vital experiences possible during a year of transitions.
The search for Temple’s next Executive Director is well underway, and I’d like to thank our search committee for all their support. By the time you read this issue of Tidings, we will have interviewed several candidates for the role, and we hope to have good news to share soon.
We’re also making great progress on our Seattle campus renovation, thanks to the incredible generosity of our community. We’re excited to welcome you to our new worship spaces this spring for a weekend of grand opening festivities May 1-3. Please mark your calendars and look for more information coming in 2026.
In the meantime, we have many important Temple milestones to look forward to this winter: lighting the Chanukah candles, reaffirming our partnership with FAME at MLK Weekend, and all the simchas and significant moments we mark with our Temple family.
MIKE EHRENBERG BOARD PRESIDENT
Your support of Temple allows us to do all this and more, and I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has made a gift to our 5786 Annual Campaign. You can learn more about ways to support the campaign in this issue of Tidings on page 20.
As always, it is an honor and a pleasure to serve you as President, and I look forward to seeing you at Temple soon. Please feel free to reach out to me at mikeehrenberg@msn.com.
Mike Ehrenberg President, Board of Trustees
Maximize Your Impact Through Corporate Matching
Many companies in the Puget Sound area – including Microsoft, Boeing, Costco, and more – will match donations to nonprofit organizations made by their employees. Through corporate matching, you can double (or even triple) the impact of your gift to Temple!
You can support Temple’s Annual Campaign with a gift to a match-eligible fund:
• Jennifer Rosen Meade Preschool Fund
• Siegal Tikkun Olam Fund
SAVE THE DATE!
Join us for a special Chanukah celebration on Sunday, December 21 at 3 PM at the Bellevue campus. Scan the QR code for more details.
A Community of Care, Support & Hope
Nefesh L’Nefesh is a special group at Temple that supports families navigating cognitive and memory challenges through education, support, and social engagement. It is open to the entire local Jewish community—no synagogue affiliation required.
To learn more, scan the QR code or visit templedehirschsinai.org/nefesh-lnefesh
For general questions or to join our confidential mailing list, please contact Jennifer Phillips at jphillips@tdhs-nw.org
Rabbi’s Corner
By Jeff Silverstein, Assistant Rabbi
Timing is everything. Often when a person says this, it is in reference to some life situation or relationship—or even good comedy. But it’s also true in Judaism! The rabbis of our tradition thought a lot about time and timing. In fact, the first discussion in the Mishnah, the ancient rabbis’ early attempt at making practical sense out of the commandments, is about what time to say the evening Sh’ma… and that was only the beginning! Over thousands of years, our people have developed a unique sense of time, timing, and timelessness in our Jewish lives and the moments in which we find ourselves.
What is our sense of this moment? I think most of us would agree that this is a less-than-ideal period for the state of the world or for the Jewish people. I do hope, though, that we might also agree that in addition to the obvious obstacles in front of us, there are also great opportunities. Especially for our community at TDHS, this year holds the promise of growth and renewal for all of us, me included.
This month marks my official installation as your new Assistant Rabbi, and it couldn’t come at a better time. We are on the heels of an incredible High Holy Day season, the kickoff of our religious school and teen programs, and the blessing of the return of the last living hostages from Hamas captivity. Our recent days have been life-giving and affirming, and I know so many of us will remember this specific season for the rest of our lives, just as I know this period will go down in the annals of our history as Jews.
But this moment is not only auspicious because of our past. The Jewish people have a bright future ahead of us! Maybe, for the first time in two years, we can let ourselves feel truly hopeful. Locally, I have seen limited but undeniable progress made between individuals and within institutions to right the wrongs of antisemitism. Globally, we are experiencing an unprecedented
JEFF SILVERSTEIN ASSISTANT RABBI
opportunity for peace in the Middle East. Even our Jewish calendar is in an optimistic period. Soon we will bring in the joyous lights of Chanukah, and before you know it, we’ll be ready to celebrate and plant trees for Tu BiShvat. After that, we rejoice over the heroism of Esther and Mordechai and our survival on Purim, just before we remember our redemption from Egypt on Passover. It may be dark outside over these next few months, but they will be illuminated by our light, refracted through the positive perspective of our tradition.
Then, later this spring, we get to partake in a celebration that does not come every year. In fact, it’s perhaps a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I am talking, of course, about the official reopening of our historic Seattle campus! A couple of months ago, I had the opportunity to tour the construction and see some renderings of our new entryway and lobby. I am so impressed by the thought and intention that have gone into each piece of this sacred puzzle that it’s hard to find the words to express my excitement for the possibilities we are all about to unlock. There are so many reasons that I am grateful to be part of this synagogue, but I feel truly lucky to be here now, at this moment of transformation and renewal. We are all truly blessed, and I look forward to sharing in those blessings with you b’shaah tovah—in a good time.
Meet Our Latest Hires
From time to time, we have the opportunity to welcome new talent to our Temple team. We’re delighted to introduce our newest staff members, whose skills and spirit will strengthen our shared work and community.
MEYRAV ALTARAS
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT, BRIDGE FAMILY RELIGION SCHOOL
Meyrav Altaras is excited to join Temple De Hirsch Sinai as the new Administrative Assistant for the Bridge Family Religion School. Originally from Israel, she brings a strong background in administration, operations, and HR, with a passion for keeping things organized and running smoothly. She enjoys supporting teams, streamlining day-to-day processes, and helping to create a positive, efficient work environment. Meyrav holds a B.A. in Social Sciences from The Open University of Israel. In her free time, she enjoys exploring Seattle’s coffee shops and hiking trails.
ROBIN FERN
YOUTH ENGAGEMENT COORDINATOR
I’m so excited to be stepping into the Youth Engagement Coordinator role at Temple! As someone who was raised at TDHS, I’ve experienced firsthand the positive impact of being part of a welcoming Jewish community, and I’m looking forward to creating that same environment for students here. I hold a master’s degree in public health and have experience in behavioral health, preschool education, and religious school for elementary and middle school students. I can’t wait to watch your children grow throughout this school year!
Architecture
Interior Design
Landscape Architecture
Urban Design + Planning
mithun.com—
A Very Warm Welcome!
New Members
Welcome to our newest Temple members, who have joined from July 9 to October 6, 2025.
Rebecca Campbell
Noah & Sharon Childrey, Maya
Beth & Bobby Cohanim
Gabriela D’Jaen & Joe Gravante, Zadie and Stella
Stephen Dolinko & Sarah Braun
Daniel Esko & Sun Jung Kim, Maya
Sarah Gelman, Maxwell and Jameson
Jani Goldberg
Jordana Grodnitzky & Aaron Cohen, Samuel and Maxwell
Elizabeth Haim, Elliot
Russell & Jennifer Klenetsky, Sophia, Giavanna, and Isla
Amanda Mezistrano, Talia and Judah
Birth Announcements
Mazel tov to Leisha and Vincent Piha on the birth of
Sterling Vincent Piha on July 30, 2025.
Steven & Lesley Olswang
Joy & Ricardo Pocasangre
Royce & Maura Roberts
Charles & Sharon Rosen
Jack & Ana Rosen, Rita
Leslie Rosen, Amos
David Schor & Julie Wilchins, Benjamin
Noah & Naomi Solomon-Oblath, Shira and Ilana
Aaron & Rebecca Springut, Alex
Daniel Turner & Amy McManus, Jackson and Ian
Joelle & Ryan Wheatley, Jacob and Anna
Mazel tov to Ashley Bobman and Jacob Shenderovich on the birth of Jack George Shenderovich on September 21, 2025.
Q: In 1930, Samuel Goldfarb became the music director at Temple De Hirsch. Which beloved Chanukah song did he go on to compose?
(answer on page 27)
Looking to stay connected with Temple? Check out our “affinity groups,”
Connections @ Temple! If you’re interested in starting a new hobby, exploring your identity, or finding support, we’re here to help connect you.
MICROSOFT AFFINITY GROUP
OUR MISSION is to foster connections among colleagues, both professionally and socially, while also embracing our shared values and interests. Join us for networking opportunities, communitybuilding activities, family-friendly fun, and charitable initiatives to benefit Temple.
If you’re interested in shaping our group’s journey and contributing to a worthy cause, please email rickcohen401@gmail.com
TEMPLE BROTHERHOOD
TEMPLE BROTHERHOOD is about building community, strengthening Jewish knowledge, embodying Jewish values, and so much more. We hope you will participate in and support our upcoming events for the benefit of TDHS and the Greater Seattle Jewish community.
Join our Facebook group!
THE TRIBE
THE TRIBE invites all Seattle Jews in their 20’s and 30’s to connect, celebrate, and learn together. We encourage young Jewish adults to cultivate a deeper sense of their Jewish self and to join us in re-imagining congregational life in a changing world.
Tribe Shabbat
Fourth Friday of each month at 6:00 PM Seattle campus
Kick off your Shabbat with the Tribe! Start at 5:30 PM with a lively pre-neg, then enjoy meaningful services, a delicious catered dinner, and an evening filled with music and songs, activities, and genuine community connection.
A Mesopotamian Farewell
Saturday, November 29 at 6:00 PM Seattle campus
Step into the flavors and sounds of ancient Mesopotamia! Enjoy a short talk on culinary traditions, live music that sets the mood, and a chef-curated seasonal dinner. An evening of culture, community, and delicious discovery awaits.
Contact Rabbi Brett Weisman at bweisman@tdhs-nw.org to learn more.
Scan QR Code to learn more about Connections @ Temple.
TEMPLE SISTERHOOD
UPCOMING EVENTS
JOIN SISTERHOOD for these and other fun events throughout the winter season! Check your email and eTidings for details.
Mah Jongg is back! Join us monthly on Sunday mornings during Religion School and Tuesday evenings.
Book Clubs — Sisterhood’s monthly book clubs alternate between TDHS Bellevue and a private home in Seattle.
November (Bellevue campus - in partnership with Temple) - Standing on the Crack: Legacy of Five Jewish Families from Seattle’s Vibrant Gilded Age by Karen Treiger
Introducing Chai Dates
New monthly tradition — gather with us on the 18th of each month for casual connection and community.
Shabbat with Sisterhood
Join us on Friday, November 14, at the Bellevue campus for a special lay-led Shabbat service hosted by Sisterhood — open to everyone! Come together in community to celebrate and connect.
Celebrate Chanukah with Sisterhood – watch for more information coming soon!
STAY CONNECTED
Join the Sisterhood WhatsApp group to learn about pop-up gatherings and keep up-to-date on Sisterhood events. Go to http://tinyurl.com/3anuepmv to join the WRJ TDHS Sisterhood in WhatsApp
Have questions or want to get involved with Sisterhood? Contact us at sisterhood@tdhs-nw.org.
The High Holy Days brought a season of reflection and renewal — a perfect time to look back on the vibrant moments that closed out our summer and welcomed fall. From meaningful gatherings to memorable celebrations, Temple continues to grow in connection and community as we look ahead to winter.
JRM Leopards Oliver and Becca create seasonal crafts in celebration of Sukkot and fall.
The magic of Jewish summer camp came alive at Temple during Camp Shabbat, with ruach (spirit), laughter, and plenty of good food to share with friends!
After hearing the story of Jonah and the Whale, the Hedgies paint their own colorful whale creations.
Over the summer, Temple’s leadership team gathered for a retreat focused on vision, connection, and collaboration, inspiring ideas (and smiles) all around!
Jewish Transcript: Friedlanders & Staadeckers At Temple De Hirsch
By Karen Treiger, Author of Standing on the Crack
Below if an excerpt from Karen Treiger’s blog, Ancestry, Genealogy, Legacy, History: Stories of Five Jewish Families in Seattle. To read more visit soyouwanttowriteafamilyhistory. wordpress.com
Temple De Hirsch was founded in 1899, as a Reform congregation. Paul and Jenny Singerman, my great, great-grandparents were one of the original families to join. Belle Singerman, their daughter, was in Temple’s first confirmation class (1900).
Temple began construction of its first building on Boylston and Marion in 1901. But the congregation grew, and they decided to ditch that plan and build a larger building on 15th Avenue and East Union. The building was completed in 1908.
In 1924 an adjacent building was constructed called the Temple Center to house the religion school, library and social programs for Seattle’s entire Jewish community.
It was that same year, 1924, that the Jewish Transcript began publication in Seattle. As I did research into the lives of my ancestors in Seattle, I spent lots of time going through the Transcript archive.
I found so many family-related entries involving Temple in the ten years after the Transcript began.
By 1924, two more of my mother’s families had moved to Seattle and joined Temple. Victor Staadecker arrived in Seattle in 1905 and the Friedlander family
(Sam, Augusta, Louis and Anne) arrived in 1906. Belle married Louis Friedlander in 1909. By the 1920s – all three families were well established and very active members of Temple.
Join us on November 16 at 10 AM at the Seattle Campus for an Author Talk with Karen Treiger — Searching for Self in Our Ancestors: Exploring the Story of Three Temple De Hirsch Families.
Temple De Hirsch – 15th and E. Union – 1908
MOLLY COREY
Molly Corey will become a Bat Mitzvah on November 1, 2025. She is the daughter of Katie and Jordan Corey, and the sister to Alison Corey. Molly is the granddaughter of Ilene and Jeffrey Gutman, Amy and Larry Corey, and greatgrandmother Helen Glassman. She is a 7th grader at Islander Middle School. Molly enjoys acting, ballet, soccer, and piano. For her mitzvah project, Molly is working with the Birthday Dreams Organization to provide homeless children with birthday parties.
ISABELLA KLEINSTEIN
Isabella Kleinstein will become a Bat Mitzvah on November 8, 2025. She is the daughter of Jackie Kleinstein and the sister of JJ Kleinstein. Izzy is the grandchild of Stephanie Rosenthal and Jackie J. Kleinstein. She is a 7th grader at Brier Terrace Middle School. Izzy enjoys volleyball, pop-style dance, running, and spending time with family and friends. For her mitzvah project, Izzy is organizing a supply drive for Mary’s Place.
JACKSON JACOBSON
Jackson “JJ” Jacobson will become a Bar Mitzvah on January 24, 2026. He is the son of Carin and Scott Jacobson, and the brother to Ryan and Luke Jacobson. Jackson is the grandchild of Barbara and Stuart Sulman and Morrene and Terry Jacobson. He is a 7th grader at Seattle Academy of Arts and Sciences. JJ enjoys football, golf, fantasy football, collecting sports cards, video games, and hanging out with friends. For his mitzvah project, JJ worked with Friendship Circle and organized family and friends to participate in the Walk with Friendship in honor of his cousin, Frankie.
ZOE LEVITON
Zoe Leviton will become a Bat Mitzvah on December 13, 2025. She is the daughter of Jamie Leviton and her partner Alex Grage, and Brandon Leviton and his wife Carmel Schiff Leviton, and the sister to Lucinda Leviton. Zoe is the granddaughter of Ann and Fred Leviton and Linda and Dan Bledsoe, and the great-granddaughter of Kathie Barokas. She is a 7th grader at Denny International Middle School. Zoe enjoys soccer and baking. For her mitzvah project, Zoe is volunteering at the Mary Schwartz Summit, the only Jewish retirement community in Washington State.
SADIE GREENLICK-SEXTON
Sadie Greenlick-Sexton will become a Bat Mitzvah on January 31, 2026. She is the daughter of Shana Greenlick and Scott Sexton, and the sister to Seth GreenlickSexton. Sadie is the granddaughter of Cliff and Bobbie Greenlick and Jim and Karen Sexton. She is a 7th grader at McKnight Middle School. Sadie enjoys volleyball, fashion, and makeup. For her mitzvah project, Sadie is going to help clean up waterways in our region.
Empowering Young Minds, One Adventure at a Time
ENROLLING NOW!
Warm, safe, and welcoming Jewish environment
Educators who nurture curiosity and kindness
Emphasis on whole-child development
Inclusive, community-centered culture
Convenient for Bellevue and Eastside families
Learn more & schedule
Torah Study
Saturdays | 9:30 AM
In-person or on Zoom
Check weekly eTidings for in-person location
Start your Shabbat morning with an engaging discussion of the week’s Torah portion and its relevance to our daily lives. If you would like to recite the Mi Shebeirach (prayer for healing) or the Mourner’s Kaddish for a loved one, we will read names right after Torah Study. All are welcome, and no prior knowledge or experience is required.
Searching for Self in Our Ancestors: Exploring the Story of Three Temple De Hirsch Families
Scan QR Code to Register
Embracing the Season: The High Holy Days and Sukkot at JRM
By Jessie Cunningham, Director of Jennifer Rosen Meade Preschool
The spirit of the High Holy Days was alive and joyful at JRM Preschool! Over the past few weeks, our classrooms buzzed with meaningful activities that helped our youngest learners connect to the season in age-appropriate and heartwarming ways.
Children baked apple muffins, tasted apples and honey, blew the shofar, created beautiful holiday-themed art, and learned songs that celebrated reflection, renewal, and hope. Through play, stories, and song, we explored important themes like kindness, apology, and fresh beginnings.
As the seasons shifted, we welcomed the joy of Sukkot with continued excitement. We spent time in the sukkah, sang holiday songs, and explored themes of gratitude, hospitality, and our connection to nature through stories and play.
Alongside our Sukkot celebrations, we embraced the beauty of fall. Our classrooms came alive with seasonal crafts, leaf explorations, and cozy story times. The children delighted in discovering the changing weather, the harvest season, and the wonders of the natural world around them.
It has been a joyful time of year, and we’re grateful to have shared these cherished traditions with our preschoolers and the wider community.
From top to bottom: Baby Aaron focuses intently as he works on his painting. While painting an ocean backdrop for their whales, the Leopards practice taking turns and sharing supplies. Miyah, one of our Sand Cats, explores a fun painting technique — blowing through a straw to spread the paint!
One of the Most Important Jobs in our Synagogue
By Stacey Delcau, Director of Education
Many of our Bridge Family Religion School (BFRS) teachers find that teaching provides them with purpose and direction, especially during these challenging times. We are truly fortunate to have parents, congregants, and college students who strengthen our community by dedicating their time to teaching and nurturing the next generation.
Our teachers are, without a doubt, the most “essential workers” in our program. As Sanhedrin (Talmud) 19b teaches, imparting Torah to another person’s child is considered spiritually equivalent to giving them life. Our tradition clearly honors teachers as holding one of the highest roles within the community.
Many of our teachers balance full-time work or studies alongside this meaningful commitment. We thought it would be valuable to share their own voices, so you can hear why they choose to spend their free time as part of our teaching team.
We are always looking for teachers and substitutes, so if you are searching for ways to take action and make a difference during this challenging time, we encourage you to reach out to our staff and join our team!
Left photo: Our dedicated staff gathered for Teacher Learning Day. Right photo: Our teen madrichim and BFRS teachers work side by side to support and inspire students, building a vibrant, caring learning community for all ages.
“ I make time to teach Sunday school because I want every Jewish kid to be proud to be Jewish and to experience how powerful, joyful, and whole it feels to be part of a vibrant Jewish community.”
DAVID SILVERMAN, VP of Marketing for Dungeons and Dragons and 6th Grade Teacher
“ The heart and soul of our Religious School are our incredible teachers and madrichim. Every Sunday, they bring their love of Judaism, their passion for education, and their care for our students into the classroom—creating a rich, meaningful, and joyful learning experience for everyone.”
MEREDITH SILVERMAN, Assistant Director of Education
“ Sharing my own love of Judaism—the rituals, the culture, and my love for the land and the people of Israel—is so special, particularly when you see a spark light in the students!”
MARNEE MILNER, Forensic Psychologist/Neuropsychologist and 4th Grade Teacher
“I feel blessed to have received a strong Jewish education and feel a strong commitment to sharing it with my students. Teaching brings joy to my life—and at my age, I wouldn’t be doing it if it weren’t fun!”
LINDA ELMAN, 3rd Grade Hebrew and B’nai Mitzvah Tutor
“ I teach to inspire children to be their best selves, to encourage them to be curious, and to help them find their place in the world. Teaching is meaningful to me as I see my class grow and nurture their skills from fall to spring.”
JACOB COFFLER, JRM Teacher, Graduate Student, and 2nd Grade Teacher
“ Our teachers are role models and mentors for every person who walks into our building and joins our Zoom rooms. Most importantly, it is the care they show for our students and families that truly makes our program impactful and continue to shine.”
JESSIE STOTT, Assistant Director of Hebrew and Teen Education
Thank You to Our Sacred Journeys Volunteers
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Sacred Journeys volunteers who joined us in person to host Kever Avot on September 28. Rabbi Weiner once again led a beautiful and meaningful service—yasher koach and deep appreciation to him.
Each attendee had the opportunity to light a candle and share cherished memories of their loved ones. We are truly grateful to everyone who contributed their stories and spirit to this moving and meaningful occasion.
For more information, please contact Jennifer Phillips at jphillips@tdhs-nw.org. If you’d like to get involved, Sacred Journeys is always looking for volunteers—reach out to Jennifer to learn more about how you can take part.
Sacred Journeys is supported by the William and Edith Warshal Fund for Sacred Journeys.
Sacred Journey Volunteers
L’Dor VaDor Society
“As a transplant from the East Coast and a single parent, I was looking for Jewish connection and a school for my daughter to begin her Jewish education. Temple was the place, and we joined in 1999. The importance of Temple as a longestablished institution in the history of Seattle appealed to me and I felt we too could put roots down.
Now, more than twenty-five years later, I have so many wonderful memories - the High Holidays, teaching 3rd and 10th grade at BFRS, Margaret’s Bat Mitzvah, participating in Tikkun Olam activities, and my wedding to Steve Epstein in the chapel in 2018. And throughout these times, I have appreciated Rabbi Weiner’s knowledge, and steadfast commitment to Torah and Tikkun Olam.
Community service to the Jewish and general community has always been a core part of my life, and, when it came time to complete my will earlier this year, one beneficiary came to mind: as it was in the beginning, Temple was the place. An easy decision.
It’s meaningful to see how, as a holy community, Temple makes everyone feel welcomed into that kehillah, especially new, younger members.
Looking ahead, how do I imagine Temple in 2050? Our Temple community will offer a warm, inviting space for current and future congregants, all growing together, feeling welcomed, safe and at home.”
Thank you to Charlene Kahn for making a legacy gift that will help ensure our Temple community remains vibrant for future generations.
If Temple is already in your estate plans or for more information, please contact Barb Maduell, Senior Director of Capital Campaign and Major Gifts, at bmaduell@tdhs-nw.org or 425-891-9392.
Charlene Kahn with Margaret Kahn
How You Can Support Temple’s 5786 Annual Campaign
By A. Zelle Rettman Nimni, Annual Giving Manager
On September 24th, our Annual Campaign video premiered, featuring heartfelt tributes about finding belonging at Temple. Georges Krinker reminisced about the first Shabbat service he attended and how the music kept him coming back. Sarah Quint reflected on the importance of safety amid rising antisemitism and the peace of mind she and her family feel participating in Temple activities thanks to enhanced security measures. Jessica Fenton shared her personal story of loss and the incredible support she received from the Temple community.
For all these reasons and more, we ask for your support because you belong.
From parent-and-baby classes to social justice initiatives, soulful Shabbat services, and inspiring speakers like Hen Mazzig, your generosity makes all this and more possible. Since membership dues cover only a portion of our expenses, your gift to the Annual Campaign ensures we can continue creating meaningful connections regardless of personal circumstances and providing the cornerstone services and visionary programs that sustain our community.
We encourage you to support a fund that speaks to your values:
1. High Holy Days Fund: Provides Temple with flexibility, engages caring clergy and staff to create innovative, in-person and virtual experiences for all ages, and pays for the enhanced security needed during a period of growing antisemitism.
2. Jennifer Rosen Meade Preschool Fund*: Offers young families starting their Jewish journeys access to the highest-quality early childhood education in the region.
3. Tikkun Olam Fund (Siegal)*: Supports social justice programming, enabling a Jewish way to exercise your values and have agency in your community.
*If your employer has a matching gift program, you can double the impact of your gift.
As of October 6th, we have already reached over 50% of our $300,000 goal. Thank you to everyone who has donated so far!
Scan to Watch
Jewish community is more important than ever, and your generosity today allows us to create a Temple where everyone can belong. Thank you for your support!
We want to make donating to Temple as easy as possible for you and ensure it aligns with your financial preferences. Here are some of the most common ways to donate:
• Mailing a check
• Charging a credit card
• ACH transfer or “Bill My Account” when logged into ShulCloud
Donation options that are growing in popularity:
• Donor-Advised Fund (DAF): A charitable investment account where you can donate cash or appreciated assets to the DAF sponsoring organization (e.g., Fidelity Charitable or the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Seattle), receive an immediate tax deduction, and then grow the funds through taxfree investment. You may recommend grants at any time from your DAF to Temple using our non-profit tax ID number, 91-0437430.
• Appreciated Securities: Donating stocks that have increased in value (held for more than one year) can be a tax-efficient way to give, as you can avoid capital gains tax and may be able to deduct the full fair market value. All you need to do is inform your broker that you want to donate stock to Temple.
• Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD): To make a QCD from your IRA, you must be 70½ or older and arrange for your IRA administrator to send the funds directly to Temple. A QCD may be able to satisfy all or part of your annual Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) without adding to your taxable income.
Thank you to this year’s matchmakers, whose generosity doubles the impact of every gift!
The Alhadeff Family
The Bridge Family
The Loeb Family
Laurie Minsk and Jerry Dunietz
Donna Richman and Mike Ehrenberg
Karen and Gary Schwartz
Please be aware that new tax laws will take effect in 2026, which may impact your charitable giving. We recommend consulting your preferred tax professional or financial advisor to determine any benefits of donating by December 31, 2025.
Thank you so much for making Temple one of your top philanthropic priorities. Every donation, no matter the size, truly makes a meaningful impact!
For questions about the Annual Campaign and more information about ways to donate, please reach out to me directly at zrettman@tdhs-nw.org or (206) 492-5260.
Temple does not give tax advice; if you have tax questions, please check with your professional advisor.
A Temple for Today and Tomorrow
Temple members 60-plus years ago created worship and gathering spaces that reflected Reform Jewish traditions of the late 1950s. Our new Seattle campus reflects the values of our Temple community today, while providing flexibility for the future.
You are the Link Between Generations
Thank you to the hundreds of members who have already stepped forward with personally meaningful gifts and pledges to bring our vision to renew our Seattle campus to life. As of November 1, our very generous Temple family had donated almost $23.5 million toward our stretch goal of $24 million! Every new or increased gift will be doubled – dollar for dollar – up to $50,000 per gift.
Recognizing Community Generosity
Unless anonymity is requested, donors to this historic campaign will be recognized in various ways in Seattle’s new Foyer:
• Naming opportunities - Gifts of $250,000 or more
• Central Donor Wall - Gifts of $10,000 or more, in descending order
• Campaign donors at all levels will be listed in alphabetical order on a plaque adjacent to the Central Donor Wall
For more information or to make a gift, please use the QR code, visit the campaign microsite on Temple’s main website, or contact:
Barb
Maduell, Senior Director of Capital Campaign And Major Gifts
bmaduell@tdhs-nw.org (425) 891-9392
Thank You to our Matching Pool Donors
The Bridge Family
The Loeb Family
Laurie Minsk and Jerry Dunietz
Gary and Karen Schwartz
Our Vision is Coming to Life!
Thank you to all our members and guests who celebrated the High Holy Days at the new Convention Center while campus construction continues. We hope you’ve been watching the dramatic changes taking place in our Seattle campus, with the weekly photos shared in e-Tidings and on our campaign microsite each week.
Here are some highlights of what you will hear about in the coming months:
• Continued installation of finishes in the Alhadeff Sanctuary, including seating, carpet, and lighting
• Installation of the foyer finishes, including carpet, paint, wood, and lighting
• Construction of the new foyer ceiling and foyer wall
• Installation of fixtures and tiles in the restrooms
• Cleaning of the dome and exterior cast glass
• Installation of outdoor landscaping
• Installation of new glass windows on the south foyer wall
May 1 Shabbat Service
Honoring Rabbi Weiner’s 25th Anniversary
Aaron Alhadeff, Campaign Co-Chair aalhadeff@elttaes.com
Laurie Minsk, Campaign Co-Chair lminsk@msn.com
Don Loeb, Honorary Campaign Chair
(L to R) Members and friends will be welcomed into our secure and accessible plaza. New dome fabric will transform the acoustic experience for worship and gatherings.
Capital Campaign Honor Roll
Temple acknowledges and expresses gratitude to the hundreds of members and community friends whose commitments to the capital campaign have made our vision to renew the Seattle campus a reality.
Temple is profoundly grateful to The Loeb Family for their visionary investment in Temple’s future.
Jeff and Margie Abolofia
Alaskan Copper & Brass
Bob and Gail Alexander
The Alhadeff Family
Marleen and Kenny
Emily and Aaron
Alison and Aislinn
Andrea and Jesse
Joelle and Loren Alhadeff
Mitchell Alhadeff and Jessica Wald
The Isaac Alhadeff Foundation
Dean and Gigi Altaras
Anonymous (5)
Anonymous In honor of Carole and Alvin Pearl
Apple, Inc.
Richard and Dianne Arensberg
Alan and Terry Axelrod
Barbara Barokas in memory of William Schatz (z”l)
Linda and Manny Beigelmacher
Alan and Joyce Bender
Joyce Benezra
Mark and Cynthia Benezra
Debbie and Robert Bensussen
Larry and Shelley Bensussen
Richard and Nancy Beren
Linda Berkman
Kathy and Steve Berman
Michael and Leslie Bernstein
Leora and Paul Bloom
Bruce Bobman and Karen Tacher-Bobman
David and Audrey Bolson
Bonewitz LLC
Linda Brandeis
Martin Brashem
The Bridge Family
Bob and Bobbi (z”l) Bridge
Ed and Pam Bridge
Jon and Bobbe Bridge
Ted and Marilyn Weiss Bridge
Lisa and Gilad Berenstein
Marc Bridge and Julia Bonnheim
Larry and Sue Broder
Amanda Brown and Daniel Sanders
Barry and Doreen Butterklee
Jay and Rebecca Buxbaum
Earl and Cindy Caditz
Jack and Debbie Calderon
Harry Caraco
Stephanie Carmel and David Oder
Joseph and Gayle Carrol
Andrew, Beth, and Elena Carrol
Jennifer Carrol
John and Janice Casserd in memory of Genevieve Cosack
Rochelle Casserd in memory of Fredrick Casserd
Beth and Bobby Cohanim and Family
The Cohen Family
Laurie Warshal Cohen and Michael Cohen
Bryan Cohen and Elizabeth Strober
Alex Cohen
Jeff and Betsy Cohen
Rick and Marcy Cohen
The Cohn Family In memory of Sandra and Irv Cohn (z”l)
Laurie and Patrick Sarabia
Barbara and Michael Cohn
Joy and Robert Cohn
Karen and Marc Ovetz
Jack Cordova
Barbara Daniels
Grant and Kathryn Degginger
Stacey Delcau
Steve and Gina Dichter
Frederic and Harriette Dorkin
Richard and Stacey Eastern and Family
Mike Ehrenberg and Donna Richman
Don and Linda Elman
Larry Engel and Kate Battuello
David M. Epstein
Jeffrey and Janet Esfeld
Nancy and Paul Etsekson
David and Lynne Feinberg
Garrett and Jessica Fenton
Henry and Sandra Friedman
Steve and Julie Friedman in honor of Karen Hudesman
Alan and Linda Freyd in memory of Elsa K. Levinson
Averill and Shana Galante
Charlie and Cindy Galante
Raymond and Jeannette Galante
Bruce, Joanne, Tiffany, Brittany, and Bryan Glant
Sandy and Ken Glass
Mario and Elizabeth Goertzel
Jack and Elinor Goldberg
Robert and Carole Goldberg
Joan Goldblatt
Mark and Cynthia Goldhammer
Evan and Zoe Goldring
Elaine and Bruce Goldstein
Jay and Meredith Goldstein
The Gorlick Family Foundation in memory of Herman and Diane Gorlick (z’’l)
Steve and Jody Bellar
Madeline Bellar
Leanne and Seth Gordon
Rand Bellar and Ilene Darahovski
James and Gloria Gottesman in honor of Laurie Warshal Cohen
Richard and Katherine Greenberg
Judy and Jeff Greenstein
Eva Hanan in memory of Gail Alexander
Jack and Alison Handlin
Carol and Andy Harris
Madie and Jim Harris
Carolyn and Dan Hathaway
Michael and Kelly Hershey in memory of Paul Caraco (z”l)
Neal Hines and Carla Merkow
Chuck and Carol Hirsch
Joan Hirshberg
Lisa and Lewis Horowitz
Garrett and Rachel Hyman
Louis and Claudia Isquith
Jocelyn and Scott Isaacs
Jane Isenberg
Sue Israel
Carin and Scott Jacobson and Family
Cindy and Brian Jaffe
Jeff and Wendy Janison
Bruce and Tina Kahn
Lawrence M. Kahn in memory of Norman and Joyce Kahn
Wendy and Dr. Gary Kaplan
Irvin and Laura Karl
The Karl Foundation
Emmi Kearns
The Keller/Sulman Families
Nick and Michele Keller and family
Stuart and Barbara Sulman and family
James (z”l) and Leatrice Keller and family
Steve and Nancy Klein
Laurie and Randy Koehler
Mike and Shari Koppel
Robert and Lori Kraft
Brian and Marilyn Kremen
Georges Krinker
Gazelle Lacenski
Steve and Marcia Lazoff
Jon Lellelid and Linda Burns
Andy and Heidi Leonard
Joan Lerner (z”l)
Dan and Holly Levin
Laurence and Pamela Levine
Deborah Levinger and David Vaillancourt
Jan Levy
Leah and Samuel Levy
Bryan and Carol Leyton
Karen Mayers Liebman and Henry Liebman
The Loeb Family
Dick and Frankie
Don and JoEllen
Steve and Dianne
John and Paula Loewy
The Lowinger and Zommick Families
Chuck and Barbara Maduell
Robert M. Malin
In memory of Natalie Thomas Goldfarb Malin
Masin and Grosvenor Families
Susan Matalon
Lynda Haran Matthias
Gail Mautner and Mario Shaunette
Rich and Leah Medway
Marvin and Rebecca Meyers
Laurie Minsk and Jerry Dunietz
Renee and Tom Moore
Michele and Neal Mulnick
Kit and Sally Narodick
Carol Neiman
Theodore Nelson and Herry Changardi
Neale Obedin
Ruth Oskolkoff
Pete Parsons
Tad and Margaret Pearl
Richard Pelman and Sally Browning
Jessica Piha
Stanley and Valerie Piha
Jay and Debra Platt
Billy and Ricca Poll
Charlene Polyansky
Peggy Printz
Herb and Lucy Pruzan
Steve Pruzan and Janet Abrams
The Quint Family
Nancy and Brian
David and Sarah Quint Goldhammer & family
Megan Quint and Kevin Lind
Mike Ramey
Linden Rhoads
Vicki Robbins and Rocky Silverman
The Robins Nest Family Foundation in memory of our Dad/Husband/Papa, Lary Robins
Joan Robinson
Bunny Rogers
Alex Rosen and Laurie Bernbaum Rosen
Don and JoAnne Rosen
Jack and Ana Rosen
Jeanie and Bill Rosen
Jon and Patricia Rosen
Kermit and Judy Rosen
Leslie Rosen
Mimi Rosen and Nathan Goldberg
The Rita and Herbert Rosen Family Foundation
Stan and Michele Rosen
Andrea, Andrew, Jordan and Marley Ross
The Ross Family
Judy and Nate (z’’l) Ross
Bobbi Chamberlin and Don Shifrin and family
Neil Ross and Lisbeth Davis
The Rousso Family
Brian and Stephanie Rubens
Grant and Alexis Rubenstein
Randy and Betty Rubenstein
Nina Sanders
Michael and Jo Anne Sandler
Hallie Santo
Ilene and Rory Santo in memory of Howard Levy (z”l)
Herman (z”l) and Faye Sarkowsky
Barbara Schatz
Michael E. Schwab in memory of Gail Alexander (z”l)
Jeff and Julie Schoenfeld
Ken Schoenfeld
Gary and Karen Schwartz
The Alexander/Schwartz Family
Ronn and Linda Seligman
Dan and Susan Shames
Eddie and Connie Sherman
Earl and Eva Shulman
Stuart and Susan Simon
Ann Singer in honor of Max Alhadeff
The Sisterhood of Temple De Hirsch Sinai
David Skinner and Catherine Eaton
Bradley and Lynne Smith
Ilan and Rabbi Kate Speizer
Ronald and Ronnie Spiegel
The Spiezle Family
Harris and Estelle Sprincin
Ed and Fran Spring
Roberta Stern
David and Marcie Stone
Brian and Rachel Stoner
The Lewis/Stratiner Families:
Janice & Steve (z’’l) Lewis
Cindy & Gary Stratiner
Marcie & Andy Lewis & family
Scott Lewis & Family
Maya & Matthew Stratiner & Family
Marisa & Koltin Stratiner & Family
Kyle Stratiner
Zach and Corinne Stroum
Mel and Leena Sturman
Helen Rosen Stusser
Herb and Isabel Stusser
Jaqueline and Robert Tacher
Nathaniel Tavel and Anna Baldasty
Gary and Helen Teper
Jeff and Sandy Teper
Dawn and Chris Thomas
Jessica Towbin and Barry Lasky
Gary Volchok
Ruthie Sofer Voss
Jeremy and Lucy Wacksman
Alan and Kim Waldbaum
Halli and Brett Waldbaum
Rodney and Nina Waldbaum
Susan Waldbaum in memory of Kenneth Waldbaum
Greta Ward
Ardee Warshal
Diane and Dennis Warshal
Sheryl and Eli Warshal
Paul Weiden
Steve and Lisa Weidling
Rabbi Daniel and Cindy Weiner
Denise and Neil Weinstein
Madeline and Noah
Stuart and Lee Weinstein
Bill and Judy Weisfield
Rabbi Brett and Molly Weisman
Karen Weisman
Douglas and Marcia Wiviott
Michael and Marcia A. Wiviott
The Wolff Family
Lorraine Wright
Shauna and David Youssefnia
Marilyn and Larry Zommick
Temple Word Search
Ready for a little fun? Try out this easy and entertaining word search! Words may be hidden in all directions—horizontally, vertically, and diagonally. It’s a great activity for adults, kids, grandkids, or anyone looking for a low-key solo challenge. See how many words you can find!
MENORAH
SNOW
DREIDEL
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
MACCABEES
WINTER
JUDAH
SOUR CREAM
LATKES
MLK JR
CELEBRATION
OIL
CIVIL RIGHTS
INTERFAITH UNITY
NEW YEARS EVE
APPLESAUCE
EIGHT NIGHTS
A: “I Have a Little Dreidel”
CHANUKAH
Thank You
Temple De Hirsch Sinai thanks the following donors for their leadership support of $5,000 or more:
The Alhadeff Family Charitable Fund to the High Holy Days Fund
Michael Ehrenberg and Donna Richman to the High Holy Days Fund
Michael Ehrenberg and Donna Richman to the Jennifer Rosen Meade Preschool Fund
Sidney Pinch Fund at Seattle Foundation to the General Fund
Frank and Elise Katz to the Marty Bridge Campership Fund in memory of Bobbi Bridge For privacy purposes, discretionary fund contributions of any size are listed below.
BENEZRA BENEVOLENT FUND
Donation
Jeff Colchamiro and Ilyse Rosenberg
BENJAMIN ZUKOR CHILDREN’S LIBRARY FUND
In Honor of Zachary Greenberg
Lynne Landis
Stephen Landis
Charlotte Paulson
Eli Pratt
Rabbi Daniel and Cynthia Weiner
In Memory of Bobbi Bridge
Perry and Sandra Bloch
Yahrzeit of Jessie Kalmans Kachmar
Charles (Chaskel) Kalmans
Fanny Kalmans Mondschein
Carla Ginnis
BUILDING MAINTENANCE FUND
Donation
Joshua Halladay and Kati McConn
BRIDGE FAMILY 8TH GRADE EXPERIENCE FUND
In Memory of Bobbi Bridge
Michael and Tina Novick
BRIDGE FAMILY RELIGION SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In Memory of Bobbi Bridge
Jeffrey and Brenda Atkin
Steven and Hedy Barrat
Daniel and Linda Bledsoe
Barry and Marcy Bockow
Terry Brashem
Jon and Bobbe Bridge
Sue and Larry Broder
Jay and Rebecca Buxbaum
Paul and Nancy Etsekson
Leslie Huppin
David M. Kaplan
The Krisher, Klaff, and Marinelli Families
Karen and Henry Liebman
Steve and Dianne Loeb
Melanie, Jeff, and Peyton Miller
Michael and Susu Moshcatel
Laurie Porad
Judy and Kermit Rosen
Judith Ross
Bobbie Stern
Lee and Stuart Weinstein
Mark and Elizabeth Zobel
Dolores Ray
Michael and Susu Moshcatel
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DISCRETIONARY FUND
In Memory of Gail Alexander
Suzanne and Barry Goren
FREEMAN KOL NIDRE FUND
In Memory of Bobbi Bridge
Dr. Melvin and Nanette Freeman
GALANTE SUPPORTING FUND
In Memory of Gail Alexander
Bobbi Bridge
Burton Hoffman
Raymond and Jeannette
Galante
GENERAL FUND
Donation
Julia Aminov
Diana BarnesM
Russel L. and Rachel Cohen
Stephanie Dermont
Leigh Haldeman and Cameron JeffersM
Bruce Harwin
Luesa HealyM
Jennifer Jaech
Erik Lundberg
Ashley SmithM
David and Joy Stiefel
Robert and Jaqueline Tacher
In Memory of Gail Alexander
Marilyn Corets and Adam Mihlstin
Jim and Cathy Dixon
Liz and David Lippoff
Sylvia and Gary Pearlman
Larry Barokas
Stan and Michele Rosen, the Rosen Family, and Rosen
Properties
Bobbi Bridge
Rachel Cohen
Hod and Steff Fowler