February/March 2019 Scribe

SHEVAT/ADAR I/ADAR II 5779 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2019 Volume 75 • Number 4

Courage, wisdom & the whole Megillah

2 SCRIBE Feb-Mar 2019

a message from the

PRESIDENT

Richard Evans revans@mysinai.org

A New Chapter The Year was 2000. We were living at 53 Peachtree Lane, and it was the first year that our son, Jordan, was going to summer day camp. He would be turning three in September. We wanted him to go to camp at Temple Sinai, where he would be starting nursery school, but there was a problem - the camp was full.

Luckily, we lived across the street from the President of Temple Sinai, Steve Goodman. Steve lived at 42 Peachtree Lane, which was the biggest and the nicest house on the block. He was able to pull some strings for us and get Jordan into the camp that summer. After that, we became members of Temple Sinai.

Fast forward to 2002. One evening, Vicki sent me out to pick up dinner at Chicken Kebab. When I returned, I ran into Steve outside of our homes. He asked me if I might have any young friends who might be interested in buying his house. He and his wife, Sherry, would be moving to Port Washington. “Yes,” I said. “Me!” When I returned home, Vicki asked if I had picked up the gyros and Greek salad she asked for. I told her I had and I bought us a new house as well!

In 2003, we moved across the street into #42. That makes me the second President of Temple Sinai to reside in this house. On December 19, 2018, we embarked on our newest, and I am sure not our final, real estate adventure. We purchased a townhouse in the Hamlet East development in Jericho.

While we will only be moving five miles east, our hearts and religious souls will always remain in Roslyn Heights. We have no plans to leave our Temple community, which we cherish as our true home. We have made so many wonderful friends, whom we value as close-to-us-as-family people we travel with, spend holidays with, and share each other’s simchas with, as if they were our own. We have raised our children in parallel and have experienced so many of the joys of life’s milestones in unity.

When we were looking for our new home, it was of paramount importance to stay close to Temple Sinai. As of this writing, 42 Peachtree Lane is still available for sale. Hopefully the next young, future President of Temple Sinai could be reading this and could possibly be the next owner??

L’Shalom

Richard Evans Temple President SCRIBE Feb-Mar 2019 3

Adult Education with Rabbi Michael White

JUDAISM’S BIG IDEAS Mondays at 7:00pm February 11 • March 11 • April 8 • May 13 OR Tuesdays at 9:30am February 12 • March 12 • April 9 • May 14 At each session we will explore one of Judaism’s core values and learn how it can inspire us and deepen our connection to our faith and tradition.

The topics will be: • Prayer - How Jews Pray • Prayer - What’s in It for Me? • Forgiveness in Judaism - How to Receive It and How to Offer It • Shabbat - Getting Off the Treadmill • Tikkun Olam - Jews and Justice • A Jewish View of Death and Dying • How Jews Mourn • What’s Different About Reform Judaism?

All are welcome, free of charge 4 SCRIBE Feb-Mar 2019

from from

RABBI WHITE’S WHITE’S RABBI study

Rabbi Michael White Rabbi Michael White rabbiwhite@mysinai.org rabbiwhite@mysinai.org

study

Come into your sanctuary. Shake off the cold. Be warmed by our pillar of fire.

This season we read the Torah’s description of the construction of our first sanctuary, the sacred space during our ancestors’ desert journey, a description that anticipates the special, elevated, sacred community that gathers in our own sanctuary each Shabbat and holy day.

The Torah teaches: The cloud of the Eternal One was upon the Sanctuary by day, and a pillar of fire was on it by night. (Ex. 40:38) Our teacher, the Arono Shel Yosef, taught that the cloud represents those influences on us that distract us from what is true and real - the quest for material wealth, our screens and addiction to social media, the pressures to succeed well beyond what is healthy. The Arono Shel Yosef teaches that these pressures, like a cloud, obscure our view. They keep us from seeing the essential goodness and holiness in our world. They keep us from opening our eyes and our hearts to each other; they blind us to how we can grant each other strength and comfort, laughter and love.

The pillar of fire, on the other hand, is the light that helps us clearly see and appreciate every person, every child as the handiwork of the Holy One, exactly as they are; to see that our gifts and even our challenges are beautiful. They are the image of God. That every single person is within our tabernacle, in the House of Israel, in God’s sight along our journey in this world. We’d all be better off if we turned away from the clouds and spent more time grateful for the beauty, the light, the reflection of God’s blessings inside of us, and that surround us.

When you enter our sanctuary, you will be warmed by the light of life, the beauty and blessing of diversity, the vibrant, rich, glorious people of Israel. Temple Sinai’s beautiful sanctuary shines with the energy of this vital Jewish community.

February and March are busy months at your temple, granting many opportunities for you to dust off the cold and be embraced by the welcoming Jewish community in your Temple Sinai. Take a look inside this Scribe and join us. I want to especially encourage you to worship with us at our 6:45pm Friday night services. One hour of spiritual nourishment, joyful singing, quiet contemplation, and wise, engaging wisdom. A perfect way to remind us of what’s important in our lives, a pillar of fire amidst all the chaos that fills our days and weeks.

Join us on Shabbat. Surround yourselves with your people so together, we can be grateful to be in God’s temple, to reach out in our prayers and our hearts, for God’s grace. To be grateful for the surrounding grace of each other, each of us a reflection of God’s light, each potential blessing in our lives.

L’Shalom

Rabbi Michael A. White SCRIBE Feb-Mar 2019 5

Adult Education with Rabbi Alex Kress Is Judaism God-Optional?

Tuesdays at 8:00pm February 26 •March 26 •April 16 Can Jews be athiests? Could Judaism survive without belief in God? Is Judaism God-Optional? We will explore these questions and survey the evolving interpretations of God throughout our history in a quest to deepen and enrich our understanding of God.

Reclaiming the Talmud Wednesdays at 10:00am February 27 • March 27 •April 17 For centuries, Reform Judaism relegated the Talmud to the periphery of its Torah-centric practice. However, over the past few decades, Talmud study has inched its way back into the hearts of Reform Jews. During our sessions together, we will reclaim the Talmud for ourselves by reflecting on the rabbis’ most absurd ideas, learning the rationale behind many of our religious customs, and wrestling with the questions that still agitate us today.

Saturday Mornings 9:30-11:30am with Rabbi Kress 9:00am 10:30am 10:45am 6 SCRIBE Feb-Mar 2019

Minyan Schmooze & Schmear Torah Study

from

RABBI KRESS’

Rabbi Alex Kress rabbikress@mysinai.org

study

It’s What’s Inside That Counts The Talmud tells the story about the daughter of the Roman emperor and Rabbi Yehoshua ben Hananya.

“What a shame for glorious wisdom such as yours to be contained in such an ugly vessel,” she tells him.

Without missing a beat, the Rabbi asks, “Does your father keep his wine in simple clay vessels?” The emperor’s daughter thought for a moment, and said, “Of course! What else would he keep it in?” The beguiling Rabbi said, “You, who are so important, should put your wine in vessels of gold and silver. The emperor’s daughter relayed this to her father, who put every last drop of his vast wine cellar into beautiful gold and silver vessels.

Any wine drinkers will know what happened next: it spoiled.

Sometimes, like the emperor’s daughter, we lose sight of what’s important (the wine!). We deem the vessel more important than the contents inside. So wrapped up in our focus on external appearance, we forget that the inherent value is found within.

This year, the Hebrew calendar is in a leap year in which we have two months of Adar: the creatively named Adar I and Adar II. During these leap years, we get an added holiday called Purim Katan, or little Purim, that precedes Purim itself a month later. In effect, our calendar encourages us to celebrate Purim twice.

Much like our Talmudic tale of gentile royal and Jew, the Purim story features the gentile King Ahasuerus and Jewish Esther. Here too, we find our tradition admonishes the importance placed on external beauty. Though the gentile King puts on a beauty pageant to find his next queen – which Esther soundly wins – her beauty is not what makes her our hero.

Esther is our hero because her internal moral compass guides her to stand up to injustice. Esther is our hero because she stares down the nefarious Haman, a hyperbolic embodiment of evil, and wins. Esther is our hero because she reminds us that value isn’t found in external appearances, it’s found in acting out who we are on the inside.

So, over these two months in which we celebrate Purim twice, reflect on what our tradition values: integrity, intellect, and a healthy dose of wit. Consider where you find these innately Jewish values in your life. And, on a holiday where we drink much wine, remember that it’s not all about the bottle it came in.

Chag Purim Sameach!

Rabbi Alex Kress SCRIBE Feb-Mar 2019 7

on being an usher

A DEEPER MEANING Jonathan Rothschild

Recently, for the very first time, I served as an usher at Temple Sinai. Feeling a little nervous, I arrived an hour early for Shabbat services and popped into Rabbi White’s study. He greeted me with a welcoming smile and asked, “So, are you here today to serve on the Bimah?” Hesitating for a moment I said, “No, I’m just an usher.” “Just an usher?” he asked, rattled by my self-deprecating voice. “An usher has a very important role in this congregation.”

Afterwards, I wondered how I, and many people in our community, perceive usherdom. We are not automotons, performing perfunctory duties by simply handing out Shabbat brochures, telling congregants to silence their cell phones, and directing them to their seats. In fact, ushers are not only important in all houses of worship, but in the very fabric of our society. An usher in a synogogue is a representative of the entire community, welcoming friends and strangers alike, and making them feel at home. An usher opens the doors of the sanctuary, greeting people as they would in the home where they live.

The concept of an usher is not new and was referred to in Psalms as a position known as Doorkeeper or Gatekeeper. Our ancestor Abraham, revered in both Jewish and Islamic religions, introduced us to the importance of welcoming strangers. Abraham sat outside his tent and hosted any stranger who walked by, offering both physical and spiritual comfort. It is both a tradition and mitzvah that we hold to this day, Hachnasot Orchim, welcoming guests with loving kindness. Whether it is the abode where we live or the sanctuary where we pray, it is the welcoming spirit that makes any stranger who visits a synagogue feel present and comfortable.

Do you ever wonder what it would be like to enter a House of Worship you knew nothing about, but wanted to respect its mores and traditions? That’s how most people feel when they enter a synagogue for the first time. Whether it’s wearing an optional head covering, waiting at the entrance of the sanctuary when the ark is open, or even bowing in unison during Tefilah, an usher guides the visitor who wishes to respect our traditions.

As travelers to foreign lands, we are eager to respect the local customs. Whether it’s bowing to a Shinto shrine in Kyoto, Japan or to a statue of Shiva in Agra, India, taking off our hats in a cathedral, or removing our shoes before entering a Mosque and wishing everyone Salaam Aleichem, it’s a universal respect for our fellow souls. An usher gets to witness it all first-hand and our connection with people is the gift we receive.

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Sometimes the people we are guiding in our synagogue, guide us in return. On that first day as an usher, I met a physician from Forest Hills who was born and raised in India; I told him that our family

planned a trip to see the Taj Mahal. This was his first exposure to a Reform

Jewish temple. At first, he asked me about our traditions. Then he

informed me of the customs in the Hindu religion, including Ahinsa, or

non-violence towards all living creatures, great and small. He told me

that in India, people don’t complain, regardless of their class. Whether

they are blessed as Brahmins or cursed as Untouchables, they don’t kvetch. He suggested that while travelling to India I leave my kvetching behind in Roslyn. This was valuable information that I would never get in a tour book.

“So doctor,” I asked sheepishly, trying to hide my foolish grin, “how do you know the word kvetch?”

“Are you kidding?” he bellowed in a blended Hindi-Borscht belt accent, “I practice in Forest Hills. At least half of my patients are Jewish.”

To be an usher doesn’t require a specific skill set or training. One doesn’t have to be an adult, know how to read Hebrew, or even be a believer. It’s an Aliyah, an honor, as easy to perform as opening the Ark. All that is required is to be yourself, welcome friends, acquaintances and strangers with mutual respect. Although it may feel awkward at first, the experience can be gratifying. One can even make new friends. As ushers, we are following the tradition of our ancestors, from Abraham to Grandma Sadie, who opened the door to strangers at her humble home in the shtetl.

Sometimes being an usher comes with a few challenges. At times, someone may fall ill or one has to quiet a row of rowdy teenaged boys during a Bat Mitzvah service. Adults, too, need to be reminded that their chatter can be heard by the clergy on the Bimah. In the secular world, being an usher may come with a few privileges, such as seeing Hamilton six times a week at the Richard Rodgers theater or being blessed with a musical talent and the name itself, Usher, who sings before 50,000 adoring fans.

In either case, ushers are not invisible and all serve a noble purpose. As our own rabbi teaches, “ushers have a very important role in this congregation.” Our community relies on them. Shalom Aleichem.

If Jonathan has inspired you and you would like be an usher, please contact Betty Brandel, Member Services Manager at 516.621.6800 or bbrandel@mysinai.org

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Temple Sinai and AIPAC Proudly Present Thou Shalt Innovate by Avi Jorisch AIPAC is bringing Avi Jorisch to Temple Sinai on Tuesday, February 5 at 7:30pm for a compelling conversation about his highly acclaimed book. Jorisch profiles wondrous Israeli innovations that are collectively changing the lives of billions of people around the world, and explores why Israeli innovators of all faiths feel compelled to make the world better.

Avi will dazzle us with stories of how Israelis are helping to feed the hungry, cure the sick, protect the defenseless, and make the desert bloom. Israel is playing a disproportionate role in helping solve some of the world’s biggest challenges by tapping into the nation’s soul: the spirit of tikkun olam - the Jewish concept of repairing the world.

Thou Shalt Innovate is also this year’s Sinai Big Read selection. Avi has graciously agreed to autograph copies of his book (available at Amazon) at the conclusion of his talk.

RSVP Required; click the link on our website home page to register. $18 Congregants; $25 Non-Congregants

What is AIPAC and what does it do?

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) is a bipartisan organization of U.S. citizens committed solely to strengthening, protecting and promoting the U.S.-Israel relationship in ways that enhance the security of the United States and Israel.

Every day, AIPAC’s staff and citizen activists engage with decision makers about the bonds that unite the two countries, and how it is in America’s best interest to help ensure that the Jewish state remains safe, strong and secure. AIPAC works to expand the U.S.-Israel alliance by cultivating relationships around shared values and by empowering pro-Israel leaders across America, including those from the Jewish, African-American, Hispanic, Christian, Progressive, Veteran and student communities.

AIPAC advocates for vital security assistance to Israel and the development of cooperative missile defense programs with the United States, which allow Israel to defend itself by itself. It works to end Israel’s isolation in international forums and to support its efforts to achieve peace with the Palestinians through direct, bilateral negotiations. And, it promotes strategic cooperation in key sectors including technology, energy, cyber security, border security, intelligence sharing and agriculture.

AIPAC also holds a yearly Policy Conference, the largest gathering of America’s pro-Israel community. Through demonstrations of groundbreaking Israeli innovations, keynote speeches by American and Israeli leaders, inspiring moments on stage, and intimate educational sessions, Policy Conference delegates experience the full scale of pro-Israel activism in three powerful days. Temple Sinai always brings a nice delegation to Washington, DC, joining more than 18,000 pro-Israel Americans who come together to learn and lobby and enhance the relationship between the U.S. and Israel. To join Rabbi White and your fellow congretants March 24-26, register at www.aipac.org and click the Policy Conference tab.

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“Purim in Art” The story of Purim, told in the biblical Book of Esther, commemorates the deliverance of Jews in fifth century BCE Persia from the annihilation planned by Haman, the trusted advisor of King Ahasuerus. The heroes of the story are Esther, a member of the king’s harem, and her uncle, Mordecai, who refused to bow down to Haman, hence incurring his wrath.

King Ahasuerus favored Esther and made her queen, not knowing she was Jewish. Upon learning of Haman’s evil plan to destroy the Jews, Mordecai Rembrandt van Rijn implored Esther to speak to the king on behalf of her people. After three Ahasuerus and Haman at the Feast of Esther days of fasting, Esther went to the king unsummoned – a bold act that was 1660 punishable by death – and saved the Jewish people from certain obliteration.

Oil on canvas 29 x 37 inches Upon learning of Haman’s plot, King Ahasuerus sentenced Haman and his Collection of the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts, 10 sons to death. Artists throughout the ages have portrayed the Purim story: Moscow Rembrandt depicted the moment when Queen Esther told the king of Haman’s plot.

Contemporary artists also look to the powerful narrative as a source of inspiration. Since the story of

Purim is recorded in scroll form, some of today’s book artists

create modern-day interpretations of both the scroll format and

the subject of persecution at the heart of the Purim story. One

striking example is David Wander’s Megillah Esther, a 45-foot long accordion-fold scroll. Wander’s work uses contemporary

imagery as an allegory for the story of Purim, highlighting the

timeless nature of the story.

David Wander Megillah Esther 2008 Acrylic and ink on paper 19 inches x 45 feet Collection of the Herbert & Eileen Bernard Museum of Judaica, Temple Emanu-El, New York

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Behind the Scenes of From Shtetl to Stage: A Celebration of Yiddish Music and Culture at Carnegie Hall with Seth Rogovoy

Tuesday, February 26 at 7:30pm

(snow date: Wednesday, March 13 at 7:30pm)

$5 Congregants; $10 Non Congregants

Shards: Putting the Pieces Together Cantor Evan Kent Sunday, March 3 at 2:00pm

Suitable for children 12 and over This one-man show tells the story of Cantor Kent’s Aliyah to Israel and his grandparents’ emigration from Europe to the United States at the beginning of the twentieth century. The stories are interwoven crossing generations, continents, and oceans.

Shards is the search for home, homeland, family roots, and discovering what you didn’t even know you had lost. The stories are told through anecdotes, song, and even a few puppets.

$18 Congregants; $25 Non Congregants; $10 Ages 12-18

Gateway to the Moon

Health Forum

Thursday, March 28 at 7:30pm

Sunday, March 24 at 2:00pm

Mary Morris

Award-winning novelist

Mary Morris will join us for

a discussion about this remarkable story of Entrada de la Luna, a remote New Mexican town coming to grips with a dark history it never imagined. Moving and unforgettable, Gateway to the Moon beautifully weaves the journeys of the converso Jews into the larger American story.

PLEASE NOTE: NEW DATE

In the tradition of Maimonides, we value our physical well-being. Don’t miss a panel discussion about health matters relevant to us and the people we love! Three experts, Donna Casali, Joanne Orlando, and Randy Hight, will share their knowledge on a variety of topics.

Presented through the combined auspices of the Sid Jacobson JCC and the Jewish Book Council

Fee: $5 All are welcome; free of charge 12 SCRIBE Feb-Mar 2019

light classical

concert

with the Vlad Zaslavsky Jazz Trio

• Vladimir Zaslavsky - Piano • Dmitri Kolesnik - Bass • Vitai Imerei - Violin

Sunday, March 31 at 4:00pm In celebration of this year’s immigration theme, the members of this talented trio are all from the former Soviet Union

$10 Congregants; $20 Non-Congregants There will be a wine and cheese reception immediately following the concert

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Intergenerational Women’s Seder

Wednesday, April 3 6:30pm

If I were to ask you to give me a quick summary of the Passover story, you’d probably say something like, “It’s the holiday where Moses saves the Israelites from the dreaded Pharaoh and leads the Israelites out of slavery into freedom.”

And, if I asked you to summarize all of the Harry Potter books or movies you’d probably say something like, “It’s the story of Harry Potter saving the whole world: wizards and muggles alike from the dark wizard, Lord Voldemort.”

Moses and Harry, Harry and Moses….. aren’t they awesome? But, if you dig a little deeper you will see who the real heroINES are.

Throughout the Harry Potter story, it is Hermione Granger the cleverest witch, with her quick wit, deft recall and encyclopedic knowledge that saves Harry Potter countless times and enables him to save the day. Without Hermione’s intelligence and bravery the entire world would have been subjugated by Lord Voldemort!

And so it goes, as in the Harry Potter series, where nothing would have been possible without Hermione, the Exodus would not have been possible without Shifra and Puah, Jocheved, Bityah, and Miriam. These are the women who defied the Egyptian Pharaoh’s order to have all Jewish baby boys killed. It is Shifra and Puah, the midwives whom Pharaoh orders to kill the babies, who are the first to defy Pharoah’s decree. Then, Moses mother, Yocheved, places him in a basket and sends him down the Nile, only to be rescued by Pharaoh’s daughter, Bityah, who drew him from the Nile and boldly ignored her own father’s decree to kill Jewish baby boys. And finally, there is Miriam, Moses’ sister, who arranged for Moses’ own birth mother, Yocheved, to serve as Moses’ nurse in the Palace, which ultimately led to Moses discovering his true identity. Without their quick thinking, intelligence, sheer bravery, and the actions taken by these women, the entire Exodus would have been impossible and there would be no Passover.

So, you ask, “Why a women’s seder?” Because if we don’t go out and tell our stories of bravery, righteousness, and leadership, others will, and they will get it wrong. Because a women’s seder is a place to draw inspiration from our foremother’s courageousness as well as a place to honor and learn from the story of our collective experiences as Jewish women. Because together, we will make sure our daughters grow up in a world where Hermione and Miriam’s stories are highlighted, not trivialized. Because simply put, when women get together, magic happens and together, we will continue to change our world.

Be a part of the magic and join us on April 3, for an evening of support, learning, laughter, and fun as we celebrate Passover at our own seder given by women, for women.

Robyn Corbin

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Temple Vice President

24th Annual

Second Night

SEDER

Saturday, April 20, 2019 6:00PM

Services conducted by Rabbi Michael White and Cantors Sergei and Elena Schwartz

Traditional Catered Passover Seder CATERED BY V&Z CATERERS

Featuring: Gefilte Fish, Chicken Soup with Matzoh Balls, Tossed Salad, Brisket with Gravy, Roast Chicken, Vegetables, Potato Kugel, Tsimmes, Passover Desserts Members: $60* Non-Members: $70

Children 5–12: $25 Children 4 & Under: Free

All children must be accompanied by an adult

TEMPLE SINAI

24th Annual Second Night Seder April 20, 2019

Number of Member Adults

_________ x $60 = $_________

Number of Non-Member Adults

_________ x $70 = $_________

Number of Children 5–12

_________ x $25 = $_________

Number of Children 4 & Under

_________

Total in Your Party

_________

Reservations are required and must be accompanied by your payment in full.

Dietary restrictions must be indicated in advance.

No reservations will be accepted after April 12.

For further information, please call the Temple office at 516.621.6800

Name ________________________________________________

*Reservations received prior to April 3, 2019. Price $65 after April 3.

_____________________________________________________

Total Enclosed

$_________

Email ________________________________________________ Please seat us with ______________________________________ Please list any dietary restrictions ____________________________

Temple Sinai of Roslyn 425 Roslyn Road, Roslyn Heights, NY 11577 516.621.6800 | mysinai.org

_____________________________________________________ Please complete and return by April 12, along with your check payable to Temple Sinai to: 425 Roslyn Road, Roslyn Heights, NY 11577, Attn: Second Night Seder

SCRIBE Feb-Mar 2019 15

0

SOCIAL ACTION CALENDAR FEBRUARY - MARCH 2019 SUNDAY, MARCH 10, 10:00am-12:00pm MASBIA SOUP KITCHEN WITH BROTHERHOOD Help prepare meals for needy families.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20, TIME TBD - PURIM AT THE HOSPITAL Bring some Purim cheer to patients at St. Francis Hospital

SUNDAY, MARCH 31, 10:30am-12:00pm - PACK IT UP FOR HATZILU Help pack bags for families in need at the Sid Jacobson JCC RSVP to Rabbi Alex Kress at rabbikress@mysinai.org

FEBRUARY/MARCH COLLECTIONS:

Laundry detergent for Hatzilu 40-64 ounce bottles of laundry detergent for March 31 Pack It Up at the JCC

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Tired of the same old dinner plans for your birthday?

Try something totally new! The Social Action Committee’s “Cooking for a Cause” program invites you to hold your birthday celebration at Temple Sinai. All the set-up and prep is taken care of for you! Celebrate your birthday and help others at the same time.

STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4

Gather at Temple Sinai with your closest friends

Prepare a meal for Long Island families in need while jamming to your personal “playlist” Car pool to drop off the meals directly to the families an incredibly meaningful experience Meet back at your host’s home or a restaurant for celebratory drinks & dessert!

See how good it feels to do a mitzvah for your birthday!

COST:

$36 per person

VALUE:

A priceless experience

For further information, please contact Nancy Schreiber at socialaction@mysinai.org

SCRIBE Feb-Mar 2019 17

nursery school notes from

MISS DEBBIE

Debbie Neuschatz dneuschatz@mysinai.org Looking Back at the Festival of Lights Chanukah is always a very special time at Temple Sinai Nursery School. The children learn about the miracle through stories and songs and puppetry. They eat potato latkes and applesauce, generously donated by Friend of a Friend. Each class celebrates at a festive party, which is organized by the class parents. The Chanukiah lights are lit as we count together the eight days of Chanukah. The children in the 3’s and Pre-K classes make their own menorahs. Below is a letter sent to me by one of our families about the menorahs that their children have made over the years at our nursery school. I smile a GREAT, BIG smile every time I look at the photo. It fills me with pride and joy to see the faces of these beautiful children shine in the glow of the Chanukah lights.

Wishing everyone a very happy and healthy 2019.

Shalom,

Debbie Neuschatz, Director

Hi Miss Debbie, Laurence and I wanted to share this photo with you. We wanted to show you how much we love and cherish the Temple Sinai menorahs our girls have made in their nursery school classes throughout the years. We look forward to add to our collection each year. If any need repairs, Laurence has fixed them. We talk about who created what menorah and with what teacher. Funny stories and memories are shared. We hold this tradition close to our hearts. And yes, it makes for a long night of lighting the candles but we enjoy each moment!

Kelly Spier

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Dates to Remember Friday, February 15: Last day of first semester after-school enrichments Monday, February 18 - Friday, February 22: No School, Mid-Winter break Thursday, February 28: “No Slumber Slumber Party,” 6:30pm Wednesday, March 6: Parent Workshop, “Nutrition and Healthy Eating,” 9:30am Thursday, March 28: No School, Staff Workshop Thursday, April 4: Parent-Teacher Conferences

parenting workshops

We hope you’ll join us for our upcoming series of Parenting Workshops, led by Limor Weinstein and Associates.

Whether you choose to attend one, two, or all four, we’re sure you will find the sessions to be both enlightening and engaging.

intended for parents of nursery school-age children and is free of charge.

workshop number threeThis series is Nutrition Education, Healthy Eating Habits & Picky Eaters

Sleep Fundamentals and Habits Tuesday, May 14 at 9:30am

Wednesday, March 6 at 9:30am

Whether you feel completely lost when it comes to teaching your child healthy eating habits or you’re just looking for a few extra nutrition tips to add to your daily routine, you’l leave this workshop better equipped to plate your kid’s next meal (as well as your own!). Gain insights into enjoying family meals, trusting your child’s stomach, becoming a great role model, and trying new foods with your child. Raise a healthy eater one step at a time!

er b m u l S n No

future workshops

Get advice from sleep specialists on what works best for the families they help, from good routines to sleep disorders to comfort.

LIMOR WEINSTEIN, MA, MHC, FAED, is the founder of LW Wellness Network. As an eating disorder specialist, parent coach, and mother of three girls, Limor helps her clients feel empowered by providing them with the skills and tools they need to become more confident parents.

Thursday, February 28 6:30-7:30pm

Come in your PJs (grown-ups, too!) and join Miss Debbie for a fun hour of bedtime stories, crafts, and snacks!

RSVP to Miss Gayle at gfriedman@mysinai.org

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our children, our future

RELIGIOUS SCHOOL

Cantor-Educator Elena Schwartz cantorelenaschwartz@mysinai.org Do Not Separate Yourself From the Community The notion of Klal Israel, of caring for one another and belonging to a kehillah, surfaces clearly in the Purim story. Purim is the most festive holiday of the Jewish calendar. It marks the celebration of an ancient history – when Queen Esther, a Jewish woman, a stranger to court intrigues, with no political power and no experience, simply saw, understood, and took action. She found the courage to risk her life to save the Jewish people from an evil advisor who plotted to destroy the Jews of Shushan. Esther, having reached a comfortable state in the Persian palace while her people were destined to be killed, was secluded from the Jewish community of Shushan. But after receiving a message from Mordechai saying: “Do not imagine that you, of all the Jews, will escape with your life by being in the king’s palace…” to which she replies: “go assemble all the Jews of Shushan…I shall go to the king, though it is contrary to the law; and if I am to perish, I shall perish!” The festival of Purim also celebrates the bravery of Mordechai – one stubborn, “impractical” Jew who refused to submit to the Persian authorities. Both Esther and Mordechai knew that without the support and connection from their kehillah (community), their existence would be fruitless.

On Purim, it is a mitzvah to read Megilah, the Book of Esther. Purim festivities center on this reading. The Megilah reading of Purim can be a wonderful opportunity to introduce children to a synagogue. Even without understanding the context, very young children can learn to associate Judaism with joy and celebration. Giving Shalach Manot is a simple mitzvah, which reminds us that being a Jew means being a part of a Jewish community and sharing celebration with relatives and friends. It is a mitzvah to celebrate and be happy.

A special meal, carnivals, sounding of rushunim, plays, and costumes are all part of the Purim celebration.

Happy Purim to all of you! Do not separate yourself from the community! Please come to cerebrate Purim with our amazing Torah Explorers students as they lead us in a special Erev Purim service on Friday, March 20, where you and your children will have an opportunity to hear megilah, sing songs, and sound rushunim.

Cantor-Educator Elena Schwartz Director of Education

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Mitzvah Makers is the long-term community service component of the B’nei Mitzvah Project. Temple Sinai Religious School provides our 7th Graders a variety of projects they can choose from. Before and after putting in their volunteer hours, the students will engage in service learning to forge deep connections between their volunteer work and Jewish traditions.

Maxwell Katcher is a 7th grade Mitzvah Maker who decided to work with Urban Pathways for his mitzvah

project. Urban Pathways is a non-profit organization that helps the homeless of

New York City. Maxwell was inspired by the work his father, Daniel Katcher, does

for the organization.

Hevra and Hineni students met on Sunday December 9 for

Chanukah Happenings, to decorate reusable canvas bags and

stuff them full of collected cold weather accessories, such as

hats, scarves, gloves, and warm socks. Maxwell worked with

Audra Groveman, Mitzvah Makers Coordinator as well as Hineni Coordinator, to come up with a plan to distribute

the cold weather accessories to Urban Pathways

as a part of his Mitzvah Makers project.

Together with the Urban Pathways outreach team, Maxwell and Daniel will go to hand out these items to the homeless of New York City.

Our religious school students perform mitzvot even when they aren’t part of the Mitzvah Makers program!

A Holiday Miracle

Just before Thanksgiving, Miles and Mason Adelman were out grocery

shopping with their mom, Meredith, when they found a wallet left behind at

the checkout. They waited for an hour to see if anyone would come back to

claim it, but when no one did, they decided to do their own research to find

the owner, Laurel Nachman. Thanks to the power of the internet and a list

of phone numbers found, the Adelmans were able to connect the wallet to

husband David, who let them know that Laurel was actually looking for her

wallet in the parking lot of the shopping center, where she thought it was lost.

The Nachmans were very grateful the wallet was found and they wanted to

reward Miles and Mason for their act of honesty. The boys did not want to accept anything, but David asked when their Bar Mitzvah was and if they belonged to a temple. It was discovered that both families are members here at Temple Sinai and the Nachmans made a donation to the Simcha Fund in honor of Miles and Mason.

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Yellow Highlighted Dates - NO SCHOOL

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MAXWELL KANE FEBRUARY 2

Parents: Dorit & Gary Kane Siblings: Chloe - 10, Zachary -10 Grandparents: Sylvia & Allen Kane, Joanne & Yechiel Gordon School: Roslyn Middle School - 7th Grade Years in Our Religious School: 4 Favorite Holiday: My favorite holiday is Passover. I like the story of Passover and I like getting together with family and eating a good meal together.

Describe Yourself: My favorite subject in school is science. I like doing interesting experiments.

I also like to play football. When I grow up, I want to be a football player for the New York Giants. In addition to football, I like many other sports: soccer, basketball, and hockey. I also love animals and going to the Bronx Zoo. My favorite animal is a dog, more specifically, a Havanese. I also like sleepaway camp.

Why is Becoming a Bar Mitzvah Important? Becoming a Bar Mitzvah means I am becoming a man. I am looking forward to having more responsibilities and being able to make my own choices.

BENJAMIN RABINOVICH FEBRUARY 9

Parents: Lisa & Philip Rabinovich Siblings: Mia - 15, Jordan - 6 Grandparents: Linda & Jeff Kaplan, Eva & Stan Rabinovich School: Roslyn Middle School - 7th Grade Years in Our Religious School: 5 Favorite Holiday: Passover is my favorite holiday, because we always host a Seder for our extended family and it’s fun to see which one of us will find the Afikomen first.

Describe Yourself: In my free time I love to play hockey, basketball, and Xbox. I root for the Denver Broncos and the Rangers. My favorite subjects in school are social studies and Spanish. I am looking forward to spending my sixth summer at Camp Lokanda this year.

Why is Becoming a Bar Mitzvah Important? Becoming a Bar Mitzvah is an honor and means that I have to step up to take on more responsibility at home and in my community.

ISABEL LEVINE FEBRUARY 28

Parents: Liz & Andrew Levine Siblings: Bennett - 14 School: Roslyn Middle School - 7th Grade Years in Our Religious School: 5 Favorite Holiday: Chanukah. I love celebrations with my family. During Chanukah we spend time together and it reminds me just how important family is.

Describe Yourself: I love to spend time with my family and friends. My favorite subject in school is math because it is challenging and fun.

Why is Becoming a Bat Mitzvah Important? To become a Bat Mitzvah means to become a woman, honor the Jewish traditions, and spread kindness to all.

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BLAKE SOHMER MARCH 2

Parents: Samantha & Spencer Sohmer Siblings: Morgan - 9 Grandparents: Victoria-Schneps-Yunis, Susan & Stephen Sohmer, Teri Schneps School: Roslyn Middle School - 7th Grade Years in Our Religious School: 5 Favorite Holiday: My favorite Jewish holiday is Passover because I enjoy spending time with my family and searching for the Afikomen. It is always so much fun with my family.

Describe Yourself: I like playing sports and hanging out with my friends. My favorite sports are soccer, football, and basketball. My favorite subject in school is math and I am grateful that I can go to Tyler Hill Camp in the summer with my friends, sister, and cousins.

Why is Becoming a Bar Mitzvah Important? Becoming a Bar Mitzvah means taking on more responsibility in the Jewish world. It also signifies a milestone in my life that I can share with my family and friends. I am looking forward to my Bar Mitzvah service very much and also can’t wait to celebrate.

KAIDEN MOROVATI MARCH 23

Parents: Sanaz & Bobby Morovati Siblings: Kiara -6 Grandparents: Farzaneh & Janhangir Morovati, Shahla & Parviz Ooriel School: Mineola Middle School - 7th Grade Years in Our Religious School: less than 1 year Favorite Holiday: My favorite Jewish holiday is Chanukah. I get to celebrate and spend time with my family and relatives. We exchange presents by our decorated Chanukah tree, light the menorah together, and celebrate the miracle that happened.

Describe Yourself: I have been attending Taekwondo school since I was four years old and I am a black belt. I also enjoy tennis and basketball. Although my favorite subject in school is math, I also love to read a variety of books. I enjoy playing the viola and piano, and in my spare time, I collect key chains from around the world.

Why is Becoming a Bar Mitzvah Important? I have learned so much while going through the process of becoming a Bar Mitzvah. It’s an important rite of passage in becoming a young man, and as I enter adulthood I will be taking on more responsibility and awareness of the world around me.

ALEXA KESSLER MARCH 23

Parents: Risa & David Kessler Siblings: Ethan - 15 Grandparents: Linda & Howard Kessler, Diana & Irwin Portnoy School: Roslyn Middle School - 7th Grade Years in Our Religious School: 5 Favorite Holiday: My favorite Jewish holiday is Chanukah because I love gathering with my family and lighting the menorah. I also love exchanging gifts with everyone.

Describe Yourself: I enjoy playing tennis, basketball, and softball. I love spending my summers at sleepaway camp. My favorite subject in school is math. Above all, I love spending time with my family and friends.

Why is Becoming a Bat Mitzvah Important? I am excited to become a Bat Mitzvah because I have been working hard for the past year. I am looking forward to contributing to the Jewish community and taking on more responsibilities.

SCRIBE Feb-Mar 2019 25

TEMPLE SINAI TEEN PROGRAMS lulu’s

TEEN TALK

Lulu Belferder lbelferder@mysinai.org In January, I had the good fortune and pleasure to take two of our teens to Washington D.C. to participate in the L’Taken Seminar. The L’Taken seminar is hosted by the URJ’s Religious Action Center. Every seminar addresses 10-12 different issue areas in a variety of interactive formats.

These issues, ranging from Gun Violence Provention to Global Health, from Israel to environmental and economic justice, are selected based on both the current legislative agenda and issues of primary concern to the Reform Movement, such as Israel’s security and well-being. The students are exposed to multiple perspectives on the issues, the Jewish values, texts and teachings that guide our thinking, and the position adopted by the Reform Movement.

Sarah Golden and Aram Ebrahimian chose to write their speech on Climate Change and working to pass the ‘100 by 50 Act’. Here are some excerpts from the beautiful and powerful speech they wrote and shared with Representative Suozzi’s office.

“This bill represents our Jewish values by showing us to treat our planet with respect; According to Genesis 2:15 “ G-d took the man and placed him in the Garden of Eden.

Aram Ebrahimian and Sarah Golden at the To till it and tend it.” According to the Bible, Earth was our L’Taken Seminar. gift. We were created to treat it with respect and cherish it.

Renewable energy would help us from depleting our natural resources, causing more, unnecessary damage to our planet, and harming ourselves in countless ways.”

“A couple of years ago I (Sarah) went with National Geographic to study sustainability and climate change in Belize with a main focus on marine biology. Belize’s shore is home to the second biggest coral reef in the world. With my own eyes I saw the pollution, the coral bleaching, and the invasive species.

We have hurt our planet and the life on it for so many years; this bill is our chance to change our ways.

Just because it is ambitious doesn’t mean it is impossible. I want us to start taking better care of our planet so people can explore the coral reefs for generations to come. Aram has also been conducting research about water pollution on Long Island, something we’re sure hits home for Representative Suozzi. This work has given him a chance to see how we are affected by climate change right in our own backyard.

We both understand that if we don’t act now it might be too late.”

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We are so proud of all of the accomplishments of our teens as they are standing in the footsteps of incredible activists and advocates that came before. For more than 50 years, the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism (“the RAC”) has been the hub of Jewish social justice and legislative activity in

Washington, D.C. It has helped activate the Jewish

community in the key debates and mobilizations of each

generation since its founding, from the civil rights

movement to contemporary fights over LGBT equality.

Sarah and Aram can now share proudly that they are a part

of this great tradition and understand its value.

Sarah Golden, Rabbi Alex Kress, Aram Ebrahimian, and Lulu Belferder visit the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial in Washington, DC.

All 9th-12th grade members of Temple Sinai will have another opportunity to lobby on issue areas that are important to them during our Albany Advocacy trip on March 17 – 18, 2019. Information is coming out in the next few weeks to register for this event. Can’t wait to see what our amazing SORTYites do next!

Lauren “Lulu” Belferder Director of Youth Engagement

We are pleased to share with you this incredible letter, penned by our very own Phoebe Weinstock, a junior at Indiana University, and a graduate of Temple Sinai’s religious school, youth programs, and teen programs. Phoebe demonstrates such grace and confidence in her response to AEPhi alumni, who publicly questioned her sorority’s holiday practices. We are incredibly proud of Phoebe’s strong Jewish identity and her willingness to take a stand for what she believes in.

Kol Hakavod, Phoebe - well done!

Alison Stamm Executive Director December 8, 2018

Phoebe, with her dad, Seth, mom, Lara, and brother, Jordan

First of all – I would like to wish everyone happy holidays. Whether you celebrate Chanukah, Christmas, both, or neither, the holiday season is always a joyful time of the year to spend with family and friends. In light of recent comments, I urge all alumni of Alpha Epsilon Phi to please read my response below: At a school of over 36,000 undergraduate students coming from all over the world and having many

SCRIBE Feb-Mar 2019 27

different backgrounds, Indiana University has always celebrated everyone’s differences. Alpha Epsilon Phi, as well as the entire Greek community at Indiana University, prides itself on doing the same.

For many years, during Thanksgiving break while most students are gone, all Greek houses on campus put up lights to welcome the holiday season. Driving down N. Jordan Ave. at night is truly magical and distracts me – even just for a minute – from the stress of final exams. Sigma Delta Tau and Alpha Epsilon Pi, both Greek organizations that are affiliated with Judaism, also put up these lights. These decorations have absolutely no symbol other than festivity. The lights that are hung up to outline our physical house are not green and red – they are blue, plain string lights, which many girls in the house hang up in their rooms as well. The wreath that was hung up on our door (which has now been taken down due to recent events) was decorated in blue and white – a representation of both holidays. Additionally, inside the house, we have Menorahs on the kitchen tables and blue and white Chanukah decorations in the informal.

After returning from Thanksgiving break, Chanukah quickly approached and our house celebrated joyfully.

The Rabbi from Chabad came to our house three times to the light the candles with us and on November 30, some of our members went to a Chanukah party at Zeta Beta Tau with Hillel, where they celebrated the holiday by making menorahs and playing games of spin the dreidel. On December 3, we had a formal sitdown Chanukah dinner, where we enjoyed latkes, challah, brisket, and Jewish star and dreidel-shaped cookies that our amazing kitchen staff prepared for us. Earlier today, PC ’21 exchanged gifts with each other, which they creatively called Mystery Maccabi, before saying goodbye for winter break. Additionally, aside from Chanukah, throughout the year we have representatives from various Birthright organizations come to the house to advertise the amazing opportunity and help our members sign up for the trip. I could go on and on about the ways our house supports Judaism.

Every year during recruitment we describe Alpha Epsilon Phi to the PNMs as an organization that is built on Jewish values, but we accept anyone who feels as though this sorority is a home. We are not a “Jewish house;” we are based on Jewish values and we do not discriminate. One particular Jewish value that Alpha Epsilon Phi prides itself on epitomizing is the idea of inclusion, regardless of religion. We are an organization of 156 current members coming from many different backgrounds and we are so excited for 50 more young women to join us in January. To give you some perspective on our diverse backgrounds, we have approximately 23 women who celebrate both Chanukah and Christmas, 9 who solely celebrate Christmas, and one who celebrates neither holiday. These women make up 21% of our sorority. In fact, some of these women, who do not identify as 100% Jewish, have both held and will soon hold Executive positions such as President, VP Recruitment, VP Philanthropy, and VP Finance. I understand that these numbers might not be uniform to the demographic of Alpha Epsilon Phi in the past, and we are extremely proud of our ever-changing and growing organization. Additionally, these numbers do not include our house mom, who constantly goes above and beyond for us, and the group of staff that feeds us and cleans our house every day, which we are so thankful for.

The recent comments about our chapter promoting Christmas due to lights being hung up on our house are upsetting. String lights are a universal symbol of festivity and the fact that every Greek house on campus puts them up represents a welcoming and joyful community. In times like these, it is so important that we are inclusive and respectful of everyone. Our chapter does so many things to celebrate Jewish holidays and foster Jewish values, while simultaneously respecting and supporting the women in our organization who identify with other religions.

Happy Holidays.

Sincerely,

Phoebe Weinstock (PC ’19) Alpha Epsilon Phi – Epsilon Epsilon Chapter Alumni Relations Chair

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Friend of a Friend/Chaverot is a dynamic, intergenerational group of women committed to uniting our Temple Sinai community by planning and hosting cultural, intellectual, and charitable events throughout the year.

November, December and January were incredibly busy with the Chanukah Boutiques, Latke Parties, Wine, Women & Wisdom, Cooking for a Cause, Israeli Dancing, and Glass Mezuzah-Making events.

Your participation is what makes all these activities so great!

Welcome to our new members of Friend of a Friend!

Here’s what’s coming up.

Wednesday, February 6 - SINAI’S BIG CHALLAH BAKE Arrival at 10:30am; program starts promptly at 11:00am Learn how to make every day a challah-day! Join us as Sinai’s own Tracy Zimmerman demonstrates how to prepare delicious challah. Learn techniques and tips for both making and braiding challah. Don’t miss this day filled with warmth and tradition. All ingredients and supplies will be provided. $18 for FOF members, $25 for non-FOF members. RSVP to fof@mysinai.org.

Wednesday, March 6 - MIKVAH TOUR & LUNCHEON Arrival 10:45am; tour begins promptly at 11:00am Enjoy a tour and a staff-led discussion of the new, spa-like Mikvah Mei Toba at the Chai Center in Dix Hills. Learn all about the mikvah ritual and its role in Jewish life and law. See why many are re-imagining how this beautiful, ancient ritual can be meaningful to us today, and learn about a modern awareness of among the non-Orthodox of this link to an ageless tradition. Kosher dairy luncheon at the Chai Center included. $36 for FOF members, $45 for non-FOF members. Space is limited; RSVP to fof@mysinai.org.

Wednesday, April 3 - WOMEN’S INTERGENERATIONAL SEDER Doors open at 6:30pm; program begins promptly at 7:00pm Don’t miss this special seder where we’ll debut our all-new Women’s Haggadah, created by the women of Temple Sinai, for the women of Temple Sinai! We’re joining generations to honor the past and embrace new traditions as we celebrate Passover together. Seder and songs led by Cantor-Educator Elena Schwartz, and delicious seder dinner catered by our own V & Z Caterers. Mark your calendars, and please look for upcoming flyers with all the details. RSVP to fof@mysinai.org.

Hope to see you soon at Friend of a Friend events!

Visit us at mysinai.org/fof and email us at fof@mysinai.org.

Jacqueline Covey President, Friend of a Friend/Chaverot

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Thankful for Our Blessings On Wednesday evening, November 28, 31 women gathered together to perform the mitzvah of studying the Torah at the home of our gracious hostess, Kim Levine. We ate, drank, and schmoozed and ended with a celebration in honor of our Cantor’s birthday with a homemade cake made by our hostess.

Cantor Elena led us in a very lively discussion on blessings and how they pertain to the study of the Torah as well as to each of our lives. We questioned the meaning of a blessing and we agreed that we as Jews have many blessings.

We referred to the bracha, Adonai, bless you and Keep you! Adonai, deal kindly and graciously with you! Adonai, bestow divine favor upon you and grant you peace!

This appears in the book of Numbers in the Torah.

Judaism is not only about working hard and enjoying life’s offerings, It is also going beyond the material world and

pausing to reflect and believe in God, community, and the Jewish people.

This is reflected in the Kaddish Prayer which ends with May there be

abundant peace from heaven, and life, for us and all Israel. Let us say Amen.

In summary, the Cantor discussed that throughout the Bible, God encouraged

man to take care of his fields and crops for sustenance, to not only

enjoy the fruits of their labor, but also have a meaningful life of value,

self-acceptance, caring for others and believing in the strength of the Jewish

community. To paraphrase a quote by a famous Jewish scholar, Yehuda Halevi, “When we pray together with the whole community, we combine our merits with theirs. Prayer is community made articulate, when we delete the first person singular and substitute the first person plural.”

This was made so apparent after the mass shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. Temple Sinai came together, at our Shabbat service, both with the Jewish community and other faiths, for a service of healing. Despite the loss, we left with a feeling of hope and healing because we are powerful as a community.

The next Wine, Women and Wisdom meeting will take place on Wednesday, May 22. If you would like to attend, please RSVP to our email winewomenwisdom@mysinai.org Charlotte Hollander Co-chair, Wine, Women and Wisdom Friend of a Friend/Chaverot

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TODAH RABAH FROM TEMPLE SINAI Thank You

a look behind the scenes of the

HOLOCAUST CLASS

Todah Rabah

with Abbie and Richard Laskey

Abbie and Richard Laskey, and their sons, Alex and Jake, have been members of Temple Sinai since 1983. Over the last thirty-five years, the Laskeys have played an active role in both the scholastic and emotional leadership within the congregation.

Abbie, an educator, is a retired Middle School English teacher in the Herricks school system. Richard, an attorney and former prosecutor in the Brooklyn DA’s office, also served as Temple president from 2007-2009. Together, they have spent their lives devoted to community and congregation. While teaching her middle school students about Anne Frank, Abbie was encouraged by her department chairman to pursue her interest in Holocaust study. In 1996, Abbie received a fellowship where she furthered her interest by studying the Holocaust in both Poland and Israel. In 1998, with the support of Rabbi White, the Laskey’s began the Holocaust Study Class for six grade students and their families here at Temple Sinai.

In thinking about Judaism, we always consider the numbers; the six million Jews that perished in the Holocaust. The Laskeys have their own numbers: having taught their class for over 22 years, Abbie and Richard have influenced the lives of hundreds and hundreds of Temple Sinai students and their families. Not just simply educating their students, but leaving a lasting effect on generations to come. These students and their families are the last generation to meet and hear first hand the stories of survivors.

As Richard would say, “Remember, do not forget. These are lessons we take with us.”

And, to quote Abbie, “In their class, it is not just the facts that the students learn, they are taught about the people.”

So, in consideration of people, we as a congregation and the Temple Sinai family reach out to Abbie and Richard Laskey with a thank you and a much deserved Todah Rabah.

With sincere appreciation, Bert Kraus Todah Rabah Committe

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Thursday, February 7th at 12:30pm Tuesday, March 19th at 7pm Thursday, April 11th at 12:30pm Wednesday, May 8th at 7pm Tuesday, June 11th at 12:30pm

For more information: Contact Michelle Golden msgolden@optonline.net 516-650-6690

ecile S

FROM THE CARING COMMITTEE

Temple Sinai’s Caring Committee continues to assist members and their families during times of need, illness and loss. Of course, we also acknowlege their simchas!

Initiated by our members, clergy, and staff, we are called upon to help in any way we are able.

The Caring Committee enjoyed the first of the year’s “Lunch and Learn” events.

We will be hosting two additional luncheons: Wednesday, March 27 and Wednesday, May 15 at noon in the Library. After a delicious lunch, Rabbi Kress will introduce us to Judaic texts and lead us in wonderful discussions. We hope you will be free to join us.

To learn more about joining this wonderful committee, please contact the Temple office at 516.621.6800, or send an email to templeoffice@mysinai.org to reach out to us.

L’Shalom, Burnette Groveman and Cecile Saretsky

Brotherhood has one more scheduled Scotch and Sacred Text night with Rabbi White on April 29, 2019. Please join us at 7:30pm for an interesting evening of learning and discussion. Please email Brotherhood at brotherhood@mysinai.org for the exact location.

We will be going to Masbia in Brooklyn on March 10 at 10:30am to help prepare meals for needy families. This is a very rewarding event. All are welcome. Please email Brotherhood if you will attend. There will also be a pre-Passover dinner at Ben’s with Rabbi Kress on April 15.

We welcome your input regarding ideas and programing. Please feel free to email us and/or join our monthly meetings. If you have not joined us before…check us out…we support the temple in many ways but also have fun together.

Steve Halpern President, Richard Blatt Vice-President, Stu Goldberg Treasurer SCRIBE Feb-Mar 2019 33

Join Temple Sinai of Roslyn on a tour exploring Israeli challenges & innovations in

ISRAEL

Led by Rabbi Michael White July 9-19, 2019 On our adventure together we will...

Hear from leading Israel thinkers, HUC's Professor Reuven Hazan, The Jerusalem Post's Khaled Abu Toameh, the IMPJ's Rabbi Gilad Kariv and more Tour famed Machane Yehuda market led by Chef Moshe Basson, taking in the sights, smells and sounds of the market, then cook our dinner together Join Women of the Wall for Rosh Hodesh services, supporting their struggle for egalitarian prayer space at the Western Wall Travel through Jewish and Arab neighborhoods beyond the '67 borders with Ir Amim, a left-leaning organization focused on finding an "equitable peace" in Jerusalem

Jerusalem

Dead Sea

...and so much more!

Golan Heights

See Israel as you’ve never seen it before. Together we will explore hidden gems and encounter new perspectives. We’ll face a multitude of social justice and political issues including bridging the Palestinian/Settler divide and equality for women. We’ll lend our support by volunteering at the Jaffa Institute. We’ll celebrate and enjoy, from wine tasting and hummus making in the north, to a shuk tasting tour and so much more. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity!

Tel Aviv

www.ayelet.com P 800-237-1517 • F 518-783-6003 19 Aviation Rd., Albany, NY 12205

®

This amazing tour includes...

• 4 nights at the Inbal Hotel, Jerusalem • 2 nights at Kibbutz Hagoshrim, Galilee • 2 nights plus late check out at the Carlton Hotel, Tel Aviv • Breakfast daily • 6 dinners, including Shabbat dinner in Jerusalem • Home hospitality lunch in Rosh Pina • Arrival/departure transfers with main group • Tips to guide, driver & dining room waiters • Entrance fees & porterage per itinerary

TOUR PRICING Price per person (double occupancy)

Discounted Rate (Payment by Check)

Full Cost (Credit Card)

LAND TOUR

$4,129

$ 4,253

Additional Cost for Single Occupancy

$1,199

$1,235

TBD

TBD

AIRFARE

Group flights coming soon!

• Touring in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle • Incredible & unique touring adventures throughout Explore the full itinerary online

Full itinerary & online registration:

secure.ayelet.com/WhiteJuly2019.aspx Tour does not include: Roundtrip airfare, any border taxes or visa fees, meals not listed, travel insurance (highly recommended) or items of a personal nature.

Please note, tour pricing and operation is based on a minimum group size. A small group supplement may be applicable if we do not reach the minimum requirement. Note, airfare departure taxes and fuel surcharges are subject to change until ticketed. CANCELLATION POLICY: $100 per person charged if cancelled once booked, plus any applicable airline penalties. $250 per person charged if cancelled 60-31 days before departure, plus any applicable airline penalties. 100% penalties apply if cancelled 30 days or less before departure. All prices in USD. Full payment is due May 8, 2019.

Disclaimer: Ayelet Tours, Rabbi Michael White & Temple Sinai of Roslyn act only as agents for the tour members in making arrangements for hotels, transportation, touring, restaurants or any other services in connection with the itinerary. We will exercise reasonable care in making such arrangements.

However, we do not assume any liability whatsoever for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity to person and property because of an act of default of any hotel, airline carrier, restaurant, company, or person rendering any of the services included in the tour. The right is reserved to cancel or change itineraries or to substitute comparable service without notice. Right is reserved to decline to accept or retain any tour passengers should such person’s health or genera deportment impede the operation of the tour to the detriment of the other tour passengers.

Yes! I want to join Rabbi Michael White on this challenges & innovations tour of Israel in July 2019!

I am sending this form with a $500 per person deposit, payable to Ayelet Tours.

Land only

* Please include a copy of the front page of each registrant’s passport and fill out one form per person * Passport must be valid for 6 months past travel dates

Land & Group Air

Name as it appears on passport: ______________________________________________

Please contact me about hotel room category upgrades

Address: ________________________________ City: _______________________ State: ________ Zip: ___________ Passport #: ________________________________ Expiration: __________________ Date of Birth: _______________ Phone: _______________________________ Email: _____________________________________________________ Sharing with another registrant (registering separately)? Please note name here: ____________________________ Departure City (if taking air): __________________________________________ Pay by credit card: __ MC __ Visa __ Disc __AmEx #__________________________________ Exp: ________ Security Code: ______ If submitting multiple forms, please check this box to apply the credit card information to cover all registration deposits in your family.

Mail to: Ayelet Tours, Ltd. • 19 Aviation Rd. • Albany, NY 12205 Phone: 800.237.1517 • 518.783.6001 • Fax: 518.783.6003 • Email: ayelet@ayelet.com

®

mazel tov Amy & Howard Smith on the birth of their granddaughter Ryan Parker Smith Enid Offenbach on the marriage of her grandson Andrew Spaulding & Delaney Jorgensen Jodie & Clifford Lewisohn on the birth of their granddaughter Presley Ryan Mann Drs. Anne & Keith Niesenbaum on the marriage of their son Charles & Jessica Schissel Allison & Alan Luckman on the marriage of their daughter Elizabeth & Eli Sklarin Ilene & James Robbins on the birth of their granddaughter Logan Brooke Mintz Myrna Skidell on the marriage of her daughter Stefani & Andrew Knipp Alice Chamow-Bader & Marvin Bader on the marriage of their son Joshua & Emily Hauser Andrea & Dennis Spitalnick on the engagement of their son Adam & Maria D’Annunzio Barbara & Lonnie Maron on the engagement of their daughter/stepdaughter Morgan Unger & Jesse Deutsch Lisa & Robert Seader on the engagement of their son Andrew & Renee Tomik Audra Groveman on the engagement of her daughter Madison McGahan & Samantha White Burnette Groveman on the engagement of her granddaughter Madison McGahan & Samantha White Spotlight on

The Social Action Fund

Contributions made to the Social Action Fund support Temple Sinai’s broad range of social action activities including Be A Mensch, Cooking for a Cause, Mitzvah Day, and the support of local charities.

with deepest sympathy Wayne Romano on the loss of his father Wayne Romano Sr. Lisa Colwell on the loss of her father Lawrence Brown Jana Grotas on the loss of her grandfather David Knie Richard Bolnick on the loss of his father Martin Maxwell Bolnick Barry Goodman on the loss of his mother Isabel Goodman Pamela Potter-Osit on the loss of her father William A. Potter Cheryl Horowitz on the loss of her husband Paul Horowitz Lenard Leeds on the loss of his sister Rhonda Winston Dr, Richard Greenwald on the loss of his wife Joyce Greenwald Dr. Marc Greenwald on the loss of his mother Joyce Greenwald We record with sorrow the death of Temple Members

Our temple family shares both simchas and sorrows.

Please let us know if you would like to receive members’ life cycle information via email by contacting the Temple office at templeoffice@mysinai.org

36 SCRIBE Feb-Mar 2019

Charlotte Schwartz Joyce Greenwald Paul Horowitz

With deepest sympathy to their families.

May their memories be for a blessing.

SPECIAL NOTICE Temple Sinai of Roslyn takes the safety of our members, staff, and students as our greatest responsibility.

Your Temple Leadership is firmly committed to employing the best practices to ensure your protection.

Many of our systems and upgrades are invisible, others more visually evident. All are recommended to us by our professional security consultants; experts in their field. Some measures are covered by governmental grants, some can be included in our budget, and others exceed our financial capacity as a religious non-profit.

On December 3, 2018, a special meeting of the membership was held to vote on a proposed security assessment. The meeting was well attended and many voices were heard. During the vote that followed this open forum, the security assessment was overwhelmingly approved.

By now, you have received an invoice to this effect. We thank you in advance for your participation in this communal responsibility. These funds will be held separately from dues and will only be used for security expenses. We ask that all families make their payments as soon as possible, with a firm deadline of May 15, 2019. Payments can be made by check or online at mysinai.org/payments. The assessment categories are as follows: Member Families: $350 Non-Member Nursery School Families: $350 Non-Member Teen Programs Families: $180 Members on Arrangement: $180 Your payment allows us to have a security agent on-site to protect our synagogue and all who enter it, from the youngest toddlers in the Nursery School to the seniors who volunteer here regularly. The security agents are trained and supervised by the management of Global Operations, which consists of former officers of the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) Protective Security Department, with vast field experience.

Please be aware that the agents’ protocol relies on, among other things, spot-checking. This means that you may be asked to show ID, to unzip your winter coat, or to open your handbag or tallit bag upon entering the facility. The spot-checking method is purposely random; not everyone will be asked every time. We hope you understand that complying with these requests is important to the security of our organization. We thank you in advance.

While Temple Sinai will always be a welcoming community, we will also continue to ensure the safety and well-being of all who enter.

Should you have any questions, please reach out to Alison Stamm, Executive Director at 516.621.6800.

SCRIBE Feb-Mar 2019 37

HONOR YOUR LOVED ONES WITH PLAQUES, LEAVES, AND BRICKS Leaves on the Tree of Life are for those special family simchas: births, marriages, B’nei Mitzvah, Anniversaries, etc. The cost of each leaf is $1000.

Walkway Bricks for our Nursery School Playground are also available for special family simchas for our youngest congregants. Births, nursery school graduation, birthdays, and more. The cost of each brick is $350.

Memorial Plaques honor the memories of our loved ones who have passed away. They are in the hallway leading to the sanctuary. Cost of each plaque is $700, which includes a second version to be put up for your loved one’s yahrzeit.

Please contact Betty Brandel in the Temple office at 516.621.6800 for more information or to place an order.

Donations to Clergy Discretionary and Other Funds A donation to any of the clergy discretionary funds requires a separate check. For each of these donations, please make your check payable to Temple Sinai of Roslyn with the specific discretionary fund written in the check memo line: Rabbi Michael White’s Discretionary Fund Rabbi Alex Kress’ Discretionary Fund Cantor Sergei Schwartz’s Discretionary Fund Cantor-Educator Elena Schwartz’s Discretionary Fund Donations to any other funds can be combined in one check made payable to Temple Sinai of Roslyn. Please remember that if you use a company or similar type check, your name should appear on the check so we can properly credit your account.

Are you making a donation? Paying your Temple bill?

You can do so online at http://mysinai.org Click on either donate or payments in the upper right hand corner, and follow the instructions.

Temple Sinai Emergency Communication System Be informed regarding weather-related building closures, security updates, and more

Temple Sinai has automatically added you to Remind - a one-way texting servic. Remind keeps phone numbers anonymous, and won’t flood your phone with everyone else’s responses. We love it and think you will, too, but if you don’t, you can easily cancel at any time by emailing us at templeoffice@mysinai.org 38 SCRIBE Feb-Mar 2019

SCRIBE Feb-Mar 2019 39

Support Merchants Who Support Temple Sinai

40 SCRIBE Feb-Mar 2019

Why Go Anywhere Else?

You know us…

You trust us…

We’re here where you are!

Call the event specialists Mary Venier-Zwirn & Vincent D’Elia to view our newly decorated space for your next special occasion

516.484.4300 Let us turn your event into THE EVENT!

SCRIBE Feb-Mar 2019 41

Dates and times are current as of January 19, 2019 and are subject to change. Online calendars will be updated on a regular basis. If you have any questions, please call the phone members listed below:

Religious School 516.621.8016

Nursery School 516.621.8709

Main Office 516.621.6800

February 2019 Sun

Mon

3

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

1

2

9:30am Friend of a Friend/ Chaverot Monthly Meeting 6:45pm Shabbat Hallelu/ Birthday Blessings

9:00am Shabbat AM 10:30am Shabbat Service Bar Mitzvah Maxwell Kane

4

5

6

7

8

9

7:30pm Board Meeting

7:30pm AIPAC Presents Avi Jorisch - Thou Shalt Innovate

10:30am FOF Big Challah Bake 1:30pm Prayer Book Hebrew 6:15pm Teen Chazak Yoga 7:00pm Teen Chazak

12:30pm Sinai Stitches

6:45pm Shabbat Service

9:00am Shabbat AM 6:30pm Havdallah Service Bar Mitzvah Benjamin Rabinovich

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

2:00pm Health Fair

7:00pm Adult Ed with Rabbi White

9:30am Adult Ed with Rabbi White 7:30pm Community Choir

1:30pm Prayer Book Hebrew

6:45pm Shabbat LaNeshama/Birthday & Anniversary Blessings

9:00am Shabbat AM

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

9:30am Nursery School Vacation Camp 6:45pm Shabbat Service

9:00am Shabbat AM

No Religious School No Nursery School

24

Office Closed: Presidents’ Day

9:30am Nursery School Vacation Camp 7:30pm Community Choir

9:30am Nursery School Vacation Camp

9:30am Nursery School Vacation Camp

25

26

27

28

7:00pm Religious Affairs Committee Meeting

7:30pm Behind the Scenes of From Shtetl to Stage with Seth Rogovoy 8:00pm “Is Judaism GodOptional?” with Rabbi Kress

10:00am “Reclaiming the Talmud” with Rabbi Kress

10:30am Bat Mitzvah Service Bat Mitzvah Isabel Levine 6:30pm Nursery School “Non-Slumber Slumber Party”

Join the Facebook group Temple Sinai of Roslyn, NY facebook.com/groups/mysinai Follow us on Instagram @mysinairoslyn Follow us on Twitter Temple Sinai Roslyn @MySinaiRoslyn

Dates and times are current as of January 18, 2019 and are subject to change. Online calendars will be updated on a regular basis. If you have any questions, please call the phone members listed below:

Religious School 516.621.8016

Nursery School 516.621.8709

Main Office 516.621.6800

March 2019 Sun

Mon

Tue

Wed

3

4

5

6

2:00pm Shards: Putting the Pieces Together with Cantor Evan Kent

7:30pm Board Meeting

7:30pm Community Choir 7:45am Brotherhood Monthly Meeting

9:30am Parenting Workshop 10:30am FOF Mikvah Tour (offsite)

13

10

11

12

10:30am Masbia Kitchen with Brotherhood

7:00pm Adult Ed with Rabbi White

9:30am Adult Ed with Rabbi White 7:30pm Community Choir

17

18

19

24 AIPAC Policy Conference 10:00am Purim Carnival

31

10:30am Pack it Up for Hatzilu (offsite) 3:00pm Light Classical Concert

Thu

7

14

20

21

Fri

Sat

1

2

9:30am FOF Meeting Purim Bags 6:45pm Shabbat Hallelu/ Birthday Blessings

9:00am Shabbat AM 6:00pm Havdallah Service Bar Mitzvah Blake Sohmer

8

9

6:30pm SORTY Shabbat 6:45pm Shabbat Service

9:00am Shabbat AM

15

16

6:45pm Shabbat LaNeshama/Birthday & Anniversary Blessings

9:00am Shabbat AM 10:00am Chazak Purim 7:30 Purim Shpiel/Casino Night Fundraiser

22

23

6:45pm Shabbat Service

9:00am Shabbat AM 10:30am Shabbat Service Bar Mitzvah Kaiden Morovati 6:15pm Havdallah Service Bat Mitzvah Alexa Kessler

7:00pm Sinai Stitches 7:30pm Community Choir

No Religious School

25

26

27

28

29

30

AIPAC Policy Conference

AIPAC Conference 7:30pm Community Choir 8:00pm “Is Judaism GodOptional? with Rabbi Kress

10:00am “Reclaiming the Talmud” with Rabbi Kress 12:00pm Caring Committee Lunch & Learn

No Nursery School

6:45pm Shabbat Service 8:00pm Sinai Supper Club (offsite)

9:00am Shabbat AM

Purim at the Hospital K-2 Milestone Purim Service (time TBD)

7:30pm Gateway to the Moon with Mary Morris

Back by popular demand! We are thrilled to announce the return of Sinai’s Got Talent! The event will take place on Thursday, May 30 at 7:30pm.

If you would like to participate - by either singing or playing an instrument - please contact Cantors Sergei and Elena Schwartz. Sinai’s Got Talent is open to all Temple members, high school age and above.

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Temple Sinai of Roslyn

425 Roslyn Road Roslyn Heights, NY 11577 516.621.6800 mysinai.org Affiliated with the Union for Reform Judaism

FEBRUARY/MARCH SERVICE SCHEDULE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2

6:45pm 9:00am 10:30am

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9

6:45pm 9:00am 6:30pm

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15

6:45pm

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28

9:00am 6:45pm 9:00am 10:30am

FRIDAY, MARCH 1 SATURDAY, MARCH 2

6:45pm 9:00am 6:00pm

FRIDAY, MARCH 8 SATURDAY, MARCH 9 FRIDAY, MARCH 15 SATURDAY, MARCH 16 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20 FRIDAY, MARCH 22 SATURDAY, MARCH 23

6:30om 6:45pm 9:00am 6:45pm 9:00am 10:00am TBD 6:45pm 9:00am 10:30am 6:15pm

FRIDAY, MARCH 29 SATURDAY, MARCH 30

6:45pm 9:00am

Shabbat Hallelu/Brithday Blessings Shabbat AM/Morning Minyan Shabbat Service/Bar Mitzvah Maxwell Kane Shabbat Service Shabbat AM/Morning Minyan Havdallah Service/Bar Mitzvah Benjamin Rabinovich Shabbat LaNeshama/Birthday & Anniversary Blessings Shabbat AM/Morning Minyan Shabbat Service Shabbat AM/Morning Minyan Bat Mitzvah Service/Bat Mitzvah Isabel Levine Shabbat Hallelu/Birthday Blessings Shabbat AM/Morning Minyan Havdallah Service/Bar Mitzvah Blake Sohmer SORTY Shabbat Shabbat Service Shabbat AM/Morning Minyan Shabbat LaNeshama/Birthday & Anniversary Blessings Shabbat AM/Morning Minyan Chazak Purim Torah Explorers (K-2nd Grade) Purim Milestone Shabbat Service Shabbat AM/Morning Minyan Shabbat Service/Bar Mitzvah Kaiden Morovati Havdallah Service/Bat Mitzvah Alexa Kessler Shabbat Service Shabbat AM/Morning Minyan

TEMPLE SINAI

SHEVAT/ADAR I/ADAR II 5779 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2019 Volume 75 • No. 4

Main Office: 516.621.6800 Nursery School: 516.621.8708 Religious School: 516.621.8016 Rabbi Michael White rabbiwhite@mysinai.org Rabbi Alexander Kress rabbikress@mysinai.org Cantor Sergei Schwartz cantorsergeischwartz@mysinai.org Cantor-Educator Elena Schwartz cantoreleneaschwartz@mysinai.org Cantor Emeritus Cantor Andrew H. Edison

Nursery School Director Debbie Neuschatz dneuschatz@mysinai.org

Director of Youth Engagement Lauren “Lulu” Belferder lbelferder@mysinai.org

Outreach & Engagement Manager Adrianne Rubin, PhD arubin@mysinai.org

Vice Presidents Amy Braunstein Robyn Corbin Andrew Kraus

Follow us on Twitter Temple Sinai Roslyn @MySinaiRoslyn

astamm@mysinai.org

jhallberg@mysinai.org

Executive Vice President Michelle Golden

Follow us on Instagram @mysinairoslyn

Executive Director Alison Stamm

Office Manager Jane Hallberg

President Richard Evans

Join the Facebook group Temple Sinai of Roslyn, NY facebook.com/groups/mysinai

Marketing & Communications Manager Kathy Diamond kdiamond@mysinai.org

Member Services Manager Betty Brandel

Treasurer Michael Shaffet

bbrandel@mysinai.org

Secretary Larry Cohen Brotherhood President Steve Halpern Friend of a Friend/Chaverot President Jacqueline Covey

Controller Arlene Zucker azucker@mysinai.org

Assistant to Rabbis White & Kress Linda Neiman lneiman@mysinai.org

V&Z Caterers

44 SCRIBE Feb-Mar 2019

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: mysinai.org

516.484.4300