FULL
CIRCLE RABBI DENISE EGER
REFLECTION
By Rabbi Micah D. Greenstein
RESETTING THE TABLE
Building a Community of Holiness through Speaking Across Differences
NEW LEADERSHIP, GRATITUDE, & LOOKING AHEAD
Elections and installations bring new leadership to all corners of Temple
CROSSING GENERATIONS
MAZEL TOV!
B’nai Mitzvah, New Members, Engagements, Marriages,and Births
January 1 through March 31, 2026
Temple Israel is a sanctuary for prayer and inspiration, a vibrant center for Jewish learning, and a congregational home for living Torah. We are a source of strength and a force for good for Reform Jews, the greater community, and the world.
RABBI MICAH D. GREENSTEIN Senior Rabbi
RABBI ROSS Z. LEVY Associate Rabbi
RABBI LEAH STERNBERG Associate Rabbi
RABBI HARRY K. DANZIGER Rabbi Emeritus
JOHN M. KAPLAN Cantor Emeritus
HELEN SCHEIDT
SAM FARGOTSTEIN Senior Vice President
BENJAMIN ORGEL Vice President
LENNY FEILER Vice President
BRIAN LURIE
JORDAN
PETER BLUMBERG
WENDY T. ROTTER
Immediate Past President
JENNIFER GOLDBERG
Sisterhood President
AARON KANOWITZ
Brotherhood President
MARK GULNER
Executive Director
longer continuous history, and none has done more to promote the uplifting of humanity, than the synagogue.
As Rabbi David Wolpe writes, “I still believe the synagogue is the best refuge for the bereaved and a roadmap for the seeker. have been moved by how powerful the teachings of Jewish tradition prove to be in people’s lives, focusing on what matters, giving poignancy to celebrations and to life’s most joyous moments. The stories of the Torah, read year after year, wear grooves in our souls, so that patterns of life that might escape us become clear. Sibling rivalries and their costs are clear in the story of Jacob and Esau, Joseph and his brothers.
REFLECTION
The consequences of kindness emanate from the Book of Ruth. We share unanswerable questions with Job and passion with the Song of Songs. The Torah acts as a spur and a salve. Religious affiliation may be on decline in this country, but if you wish to see the full panoply of a human life, moments of the highest joy and deepest sorrow, the summit of hopes and the connections of community, they exist in one place: your local house of worship.”
I still believe the synagogue is the best refuge for the bereaved and a roadmap for the seeker.
TEMPLE ISRAEL
1376 East Massey Road Memphis, TN 38120
Temple Israel is a member of the Union for Reform Judaism. reformjudaism.org • urj.org
ow do you mark time each year? Obviously, January 1st changes the way we date our letters. In Jewish time, Rosh Hashanah draws us back to the notion of a spiritual New Year.
The end of the school year and start of summer is yet another seasonal shift.
This is the last edition of The Voice before we will begin saying “Shanah Tovah” in anticipation of Rosh Hashanah. The Hebrew word for year, “shanah,” comes from a seemingly contradictory root (shin-nun-hey). Those letters form the words for both “repeat” and “change.” In other words, implicit in the passage of time, whether a lazy summer or a hectic year is both repetition and change. What hasn’t changed for the Jewish people the past 2,000 years is the eternal light of a synagogue like ours. Unlike schools which have summer vacations, Temple never closes. It may very well be that no human institution has a
The beauty of our congregation is not simply about one season, age, or stage. Temple is for a lifetime. Faith, family, and community for a lifetime.
From a spiritual perspective, there really aren’t any beginnings or endings, just continuations. Whether new approaches to communications, music and spirituality, lifetime learning, or walking the Temple Trail during summer camp for pre-k children, Temple will continue to inspire a vibrant living Judaism all year long. Have a wonderful summer and please drop by 1376 E. Massey any time you happen to be in the neighborhood!
Faithfully yours,
RABBI MICAH D. GREENSTEIN
RABBI DAVID WOLPE
FROM BARNYARD FUN TO TINY TRAVELERS—SUMMER STARTS HERE Summer Camp at Barbara K. Lipman Early Learning Center
FULL CIRCLE
Fifty Years After Her Confirmation, A Daughter of Temple Israel Returns for Pride Shabbat
NEW MEMBER SPOLIGHT
Audrey Slote & Jeremy Orosz
Comments from Helen Scheidt, new Temple Israel President
RESETTING THE TABLE
BUILDING A COMMUNITY OF HOLINESS THROUGH SPEAKING ACROSS DIFFERENCES
WRITTEN BY RABBI LEAH STERNBERG
here is a teaching from Pirkei Avot that says. If three people sit at a table and do not share words of Torah, it is as if they have eaten from offerings to the dead. But if three sit together and share words of Torah, it is as if they have eaten at the table of the Divine, with God present among them.
Judaism reminds us that holiness is not found in silence, isolation, or refraining from conversation. God becomes more present when we come together—to learn, to listen, and to share the Torah each of us carries. It is in those moments that we begin to build the kinds of relationships that can lead to understanding, connection, and even change. The question comes up, how does this holiness resonate when we may differ in our views, interpretations, or how we understand the world around us? How do we maintain holiness between people in a world as politically polarized as the one we are currently living?
My own passion for bridging political divides began in the wake of the 2016 election, when our country entered a new chapter of division. Relationships were strained under the weight of political difference, and conversations that once felt possible began to feel at best, fractured, and at worst, lost. It became clear to me that if we did not learn how to speak to one another across those differences with a sense of unity and civility, we risked losing not only our ability to communicate, but our ability to remain in relationship at all.
One of the values that guides this important work is machloket l’shem shamayim—argument for the sake of heaven. This is not an argument for the sake of winning, but for the sake of understanding. It asks us to listen not in order to respond, but to truly hear until the other person feels seen and
understood exactly as they intended, which opens the door for meaningful conversation. In practicing this kind of sacred disagreement, we begin to build the muscle of deep listening and the ability to hold space for one another, even when we do not agree.
As spoke about last Yom Kippur, I am thrilled that this year we were able to launch our first cohort of a Speaking Across Difference workshop through an organization I have been involved with for years called Resetting the Table (RTT). RTT is a nonpartisan organization dedicated to strengthening democracy and civic life by equipping communities with the skills to communicate, deliberate, and build relationships across political divides.
What emerged from that first cohort was not consensus–nor was that the goal. Participants experienced rich conversation, new perspectives, and a deeper understanding of one another’s stories and lived experiences that shape how each of us sees the world. The work is not about changing minds, but about giving us the tools to stay connected with family, friends, coworkers and neighbors whom we might not see eye to eye with.
One of the greatest strengths of our community is the diversity of perspectives and life experiences that shape who we are. I believe how we show up for one another here within our Temple community is a microcosm of how we engage across chasms of difference in the broader world.
As we head into our next program year, we all have the opportunity to take part in this effort, and I invite you all to join us. If you are interested in learning more about Resetting the Table, or signing up for our next workshop, please be in touch.
One of the greatest strengths of our community is the diversity of perspectives and life experiences that shape who we are.
Please be on the lookout for upcoming cohorts of the Resetting the Table workshop in our new program year.
Summer at the Barbara K. Lipman Early Learning Center is a time of discovery, creativity, and joy. The 2026 ELC Summer Camp offers nine thoughtfully designed weeks, each built around engaging themes that spark curiosity and encourage hands-on learning in a nurturing environment.
FROM BARNYARD FUN TO TINY TRAVELERS— SUMMER STARTS HERE
Summer Camp at Barbara K. Lipman Early Learning Center
From the very first week, “Fun in the Sun,” campers dive into beach and ocean-inspired activities, setting the tone for a season filled with laughter and exploration. As the weeks progress, children experience a wide range of imaginative adventures— from meeting “Barnyard Friends” and moving to the rhythm in “Move and Groove,” to building and experimenting during “Tinker Tots.” Each theme is intentionally crafted to support early childhood development through play, creativity, and social interaction. The camp continues to evolve as the summer unfolds. Campers explore motion and transportation in “Things That Go,” connect with nature during “Little Sprouts,” and enjoy classic outdoor fun in “Happy Campers.” A highlight of the summer is “Tiny Travelers,” where children are introduced to the sights, sounds, and traditions of Israel through music, crafts, and sensory experiences—fostering both cultural awareness and a sense of community.
The summer concludes with a “Summer Send-Off,” celebrating friendships formed and memories made. More than just a camp, the BKL ELC Summer program is an extension of the center’s mission: to create meaningful, joyful experiences where children grow, explore, and thrive—together.
The BKL ELC Summer program is an extension of the center’s mission: to create meaningful, joyful experiences where children grow, explore, and thrive—together.
BARBARA K. LIPMAN EARLY LEARNING CENTER
abbi Denise Eger was not born in Memphis — but it was here, in this city, at this congregation, that the rabbi she would become first took shape. In a recent conversation, Rabbi Eger shared with me the deep mark Temple Israel left on her early years.
When her parents, Bernard and Estelle Eger, moved the family from a small town in Pennsylvania just before junior high, Temple Israel quickly became her second home. “I spent more time at Temple Israel sometimes than spent in my own house with my parents,” she told me. She was teaching Sunday school from the time she was twelve — even before her own bat mitzvah.
She remembers the generosity of Temple staff, clergy, and auxiliary groups in those early years — the hands that helped send her to URJ Henry S. Jacobs Camp, that supported her involvement in NFTY, and that walked alongside her toward the rabbinate. “Temple Israel Sisterhood was always so generous to me. And the Temple really helped me become who became. Rabbi Wax, of blessed memory, and then later Rabbi Danziger, my teacher and mentor, really shaped me into the rabbi I would become.”
And what a rabbi she became.
Over more than 35 years in the rabbinate, Rabbi Eger has left an indelible mark on the Jewish world. Her advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community — within our Reform Movement and in the wider Jewish world — has dramatically reshaped a
landscape that looked almost unrecognizable when she was ordained in 1988.
The world she stepped into as a newly ordained rabbi presented immense obstacles for LGBTQ+ people. “Gay marriage was not legal. You could be kicked out of your apartment or fired from your job at any time for being gay. In most places, you couldn’t adopt children. And if you had been in a straight marriage before and got divorced, most often, the person who was gay — regardless of whether it was the mother or the father — children would be taken away from you.” It was also the height of the AIDS crisis, when thousands of young gay men died within weeks of receiving their diagnoses, often left to struggle through the illness without the support of family, religious communities, or social services.
Though she did not set out to be an LGBTQ+ activist, her fierce commitment to justice — due in no small part to her upbringing at Temple Israel under teachers like Rabbi Wax — led her to action. She ministered to a suffering and traumatized community while working tirelessly to ensure that future generations would not face the same challenges.
Rabbi Eger was ordained before HUC-JIR’s policy of admitting openly lesbian and gay rabbinical candidates was changed. In 1990, as the Central Conference of American Rabbis was considering a resolution to move the seminary on that policy, Rabbi Eger came out publicly in a Los Angeles Times
She ministered to a suffering and traumatized community while working tirelessly to ensure that future generations would not face the same challenges.
article. “Some people said that was foolish,” she reflected, “and maybe in retrospect it was foolish, because it certainly limited my job prospects. On the other hand, what think it did is help move the bar — push rabbis to say, ‘Wait, I know her.’
All of the studies show that when someone knows somebody who’s gay, or has somebody in their family who’s trans, people’s views change. You have to put a real face and name to people. We’re talking about real people — not some group out there that can be made into a menacing other, but your neighbor, your sister, your brother, your rabbi. It’s different.” She went on to help craft the resolution on marriage equality for the Central Conference of American Rabbis and led the charge for its passage in 2000. As chair of the Gay and Lesbian Rabbinic Network and a member of the CCAR’s Human Sexuality Committee, she educated her colleagues and created liturgical materials for marriage ceremonies, counseling resources, and educational materials now used not only throughout our Reform Movement but across Jewish and non-Jewish communities alike.
In 1993, she founded Congregation Kol Ami in West Hollywood, California. From 2015 to 2017, she served as the first openly gay president of the CCAR — just two of her many accolades over a nearly four-decade career in the rabbinate. Though she retired from the pulpit in the summer of 2023, Rabbi Eger continues to serve the Jewish community through her work as an executive leadership coach with rabbis, ministers, and nonprofit executives and boards across North America. She also serves on the URJ Henry S. Jacobs Camp Committee and in a variety of capacities in her new home of Austin, Texas, where she lives with her wife, Rabbi Eleanor Steinman. Fifty years after her confirmation, we are honored to welcome this child of Temple Israel home for our Pride Shabbat.
Rabbi Denise L. Eger's visit for Pride Weekend is generously sponsored in memory of Dr. Mike Rankin, USN z"l.
LGBTQ Pride Scholar in Residence
Rabbi Denise L. Eger is one of most consequential voices in LGBTQ Jewish. Named by the Huffington Post as the #1 LGBT Clergy Person in America, she is the founding rabbi emerita of Congregation Kol Ami in West Hollywood, CA. She is a past president of the Central Conference of American Rabbis—the first openly gay or lesbian person ever elected to that role—and the first woman ever elected President of the Southern California Board of Rabbis. Recognized by the City of Los Angeles as a trailblazer, she was featured in “Holy Sparks” the landmark exhibition celebrating the first fifty years of women rabbis. She currently serves on Austin’s Public Safety Commission, appointed by the Austin City Council. She proudly serves on the URJ Henry S. Jacobs Camp Committee. She is the editor of the best-selling Mishkan Ga’avah: Where Pride Dwells: A Celebration of LGBTQ Jewish Life and Ritual (CCAR Press, 2020), the definitive liturgical resource for queer Jew-
ish life, and co-author of 7 Principles for Living Bravely (TKG, 2023). Her scholarship spans more than a dozen volumes, including Torah Queeries and the Social Justice Torah Commentary. She holds a Doctor of Divinity from HUC-JIR and an honorary Doctorate from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev.
Beyond the bimah, Rabbi Eger is a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) and founder of Rezilience Strategies, where she coaches senior executives and non-profit leaders through high-stakes transitions, governance challenges, and organizational transformation—bringing nearly four decades of lived leadership experience to every engagement. Rabbi Eger is married to Rabbi Dr. Eleanor Steinman, Senior Rabbi of Temple Beth Shalom in Austin, Texas, where she now resides. She is a proud mother and grandmother. She is delighted to return to her home congregation as your LGBTQ Pride Scholar in Residence.
AUDREY SLOTE & JEREMY OROSZ
Tell us a bit about yourself.
AUDREY: I'm actually very new to Memphis--I moved here in August 2025 to be with Jeremy after being long-distance for two years. Jeremy and I got engaged shortly after got here. I'm originally from a small college town in Northwestern PA. After moving to Minnesota for college, I lived in Minneapolis for six years and then Chicago for six years before moving here. I'm really loving Memphis so far! The access to nature and the slower pace of life (especially compared to Chicago) is really good for my well-being.
JEREMY: I have lived in Memphis for almost 12 years now, moving here to work at U of M. I am from the New York area originally (Long Island). Before moving to Memphis, I also lived in Ohio (Wooster) for college, in Korea for a gap year as an English teacher, and in Minneapolis to attend graduate school at the University of Minnesota.
What is your profession?
We actually have the same kind of niche profession: we are both academics who study music theory, and we first met at a music theory conference (a super dorky meet-cute, we know)!
AUDREY: I am currently finishing up my PhD in music theory at the University of Chicago. I'm in the final stages of writing my dissertation, which can do from anywhere, so I decided to come. I'm also a cellist, and spent my twenties primarily working as a freelance performer and teacher. I still actively play, and am starting to perform a bit around Memphis.
JEREMY: am a professor of music theory in the Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music at the U of M. I teach undergraduate and graduate courses there, and am active as a researcher, publishing my work in both academic and public-facing venues.
What are your interests or hobbies?
In addition to music, we share many hobbies and interests. We love the outdoors, and enjoy time hiking and kayaking. We are just starting to get into birding, too! We also like to cook together, and have made some recent improvements to our challah game (see picture!).
What inspired you to become a member of TI?
We are seeking groundedness in Jewish community and tradition. The process of preparing to get married has led us to reflect a lot about our Jewish values and the rituals we cherish, and we are excited to connect with others in the TI community over shared values and traditions.
RABBI DENISE L. EGER, PCC
NEW LEADERSHIP, GRATITUDE, & LOOKING AHEAD
the Pickled Peppers, Temple Israel’s teen band. Mary recently began an exciting new role as Chief Development Officer at the Mid-South Food Bank. As for me, I serve as an instructor pilot on the Airbus A300 for FedEx, enjoy homebrewing, and proudly provide elite chauffeur services for our children.
hope this message finds you enjoying the first weeks of summer. My name is Aaron Kanowitz, and I am honored to serve as the incoming President of Temple Israel Brotherhood. Some of you may remember me from such memorable roles as “Esther” in a Purim Spiel, or perhaps as, “Oh—you’re Mary’s husband.
I’ve seen you on Facebook.”
Fifteen years ago, Mary and I made the move from Denver to Memphis when I began flying for FedEx. At the time, Memphis, and frankly, the South, was completely unfamiliar territory. We knew very little about the city and didn’t know a single person. One of the very first things we did after arriving was call Temple Israel. That single phone call helped shape the course of our lives here in Memphis.
Fast-forward to today, and our family is deeply rooted in both the Jewish and the greater Memphis communities. Many of our closest friendships have grown directly from our involvement at Temple Israel. Our children, Josephine “Joey” (13) and Ari (12), attend White Station Middle School and are preparing for their B’nai Mitzvah later this summer. They are active in WAFRS, serve on the board of JYG, and perform in
For the past two years, have had the privilege of serving as Brotherhood Events Coordinator. Together with our outstanding Brotherhood Board, we have introduced new programs and activities while continuing many of the meaningful traditions that have long defined our organization.
As I begin this new role as Brotherhood President, look forward to strengthening our internal operations, expanding our outreach within the broader community, and continuing improvements to the Brotherhood/Boy Scouts House. am also excited to deepen connections with past Brotherhood leadership while creating new opportunities for future members to engage and participate.
There is no question that my family and I would not be where we are today without the Temple Israel community, and Brotherhood has always been an essential part of that experience. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to help cultivate and strengthen an organization that has given so much to my family.
AARON KANOWITZ
New Brotherhood President
I plan to enhance our own internal processes, and I wish to broaden our community outreach.
am truly honored to serve as the new Sisterhood President – and you could say it’s in my DNA! Both my grandmother and mother were Sisterhood Presidents at Temple Beth-El in Fort Worth, Texas. I even share my birthday with their opening program in 1971!
Since making Memphis my home in 2009, I’ve been grateful to grow within this community. I began volunteering at the Barbara K. Lipman Early Learning Center and soon joined the staff. A few years later, I was asked by Phyllis Strasberg to organize the Temple staff breakfast for Sisterhood and from that moment on, was hooked. Fast forward a decade, I have served on the Sisterhood board as a Director, Treasurer (two terms) and most recently Executive Vice President. I am grateful for the opportunity to lead this Sisterhood for the next 2 years.
This is an exciting time for the Temple Israel Sisterhood, and I hope you will be a part of our journey! We are committed to honoring our cherished traditions while expanding our programming and deepening our impact within the Temple and
throughout the broader community. Sisterhood is an inclusive organization for all women. It offers lifelong friendships, meaningful spiritual connection, opportunities for learning and laughter, and a shared commitment to social justice and action. It brings women together in ways that support us through life’s happiest moments, its most challenging times, and everything in between. Simply put—it brings us sisters. Our Sisterhood is an organization of women from our congregation and the greater Jewish Memphis area who come together in friendship to benefit Temple, the Jewish community and beyond. Sisterhood enables members to meet and work together to foster and further the ideals of Judaism. We are truly grateful to each member and hope you will join us. Membership allows Sisterhood to reach its goals by enriching our lives through personal growth, social events, and educational opportunities.
You can see Sisterhood’s impact in every corner of Temple Israel. One of the first things you’ll notice when entering is our beautiful Judaica shop- your one-stop destination for meaningful Judaica and thoughtful gifts. We are proud to support our congregation by providing gifts for B’nai Mitzvah, Confirmation, and Graduation students, holiday treats for the Religious School, gift cards for our college students, and donations that benefit our Temple community. Our largest fundraiser is the sale of Holland bulbs, which have helped our Temple grounds look more beautiful for over 75 years. Last, but not definitely not least, you’ll find Sisterhood members working in the Temple kitchen before each holiday.
I hope you will join us for one – or many – of our upcoming events. We are active, we are growing, and we are excited to welcome you. Whether you’re a longtime member or new to Temple Israel, there is a place for you in Sisterhood. Be on the lookout for future programs including game nights, social gatherings, creative workshops, bingo, flower arranging and the continuation of the wellness series.
A NEW CHAPTER OF LEADERSHIP
t our recent Annual Meeting, Temple Israel paused to honor meaningful service and look confidently toward the future. The evening offered an opportunity to both express deep gratitude and introduce the next generation of congregational leadership.
We began by recognizing our outgoing officers, whose dedication, wisdom, and steady guidance have strengthened our community in lasting ways. Through both moments of challenge and celebration, their commitment has helped shape Temple Israel’s path forward. Their service reflects the very best of our congregation, and we are deeply grateful.
The evening also marked an exciting transition as we elected the new slate of officers, trustees, and auxiliary representatives. This remarkable group of leaders has answered the call to serve— bringing with them a breadth of experience, perspective, and heart. Leadership in a synagogue is sacred work, and we are fortunate to have individuals so committed to stewarding our community’s future.
As the slate was presented for congregational approval, it was especially meaningful to have this moment led by outgoing President Wendy Rotter as one of her final acts in office—a fitting reflection of her impactful leadership.
Together, we celebrate those who have given so much and those who now step forward. With gratitude and anticipation, Temple Israel continues to build on its strong foundation, guided by leaders devoted to our shared mission and future.
CROSSING
t eight years old, I walked into Temple Israel’s East Memphis campus right after it opened. Even half a century later, my heart still fills with the excitement of that first day, standing surrounded by the newly constructed, breathtaking building. remember the awe and joy of discovering the hidden gems of the architecture, like the tunnel underneath the bimah, complete with red carpeting (which still holds true today).
REFLECTIONS BY 55 TH PRESIDENT HELEN SCHEIDT
As dedicated members, my parents encouraged my exploration because they understood the importance of our synagogue and what it would mean to the Memphis community. That deep-rooted love for discovery has served as a pillar of my faith, and Temple Israel has been along on my journey to shape my Jewish life in countless ways.
As a native Memphian, Temple Israel played a central role in my life. My family has been involved with the congregation as members, advisors, and leaders. My children grew up here, graduated from our religious school, and celebrated their B’nai Mitzvah. Now have the joy of watching the next generation begin their journey here as well in the Barbara K. Lipman Early Learning Center. Through every stage of my life, Temple Israel has been my extended family. It is my house of worship where I celebrate life’s joys with my community, where find comfort in times of sadness, and where my spirituality continues to grow. My hope is that every member of our congregation feels that same sense of belonging and connection, because for generations, Temple Israel has been a place for people to gather. Now, it is my honor to take a leading role in that continuing story.
Serving as President of Temple Israel is one of the greatest honors and responsibilities of my life, second only to raising my own family. I am deeply moved by the trust this congregation has placed in me, and am committed to serving Temple Israel with an unwavering dedication. I never imagined that one day I would have the privilege of serving as President of this congregation. During my most recent time on our board, Laurie Meskin selected me as her presidential appointee. I began by working with volunteers on smaller projects, including securing advertisements to support our printed
I am reminded how important it is that we preserve and strengthen Temple Israel for the next generation.
HELEN SCHEIDT, TEMPLE ISRAEL PRESIDENT
Members of the Board of Trustees and past presidents passed the Torah around the bimah to Helen Scheidt during her Leadership Shabbat on Friday, May 8.
Members of Helen’s immediate family came to help her celebrate, including (L to R) Marcus and Mason Gronauer, Helen Scheidt, Honey, Margo, and Steven Saharovici.
membership directory, which eventually led to helping plan our fundraiser with Alex Edelman. Over time, my involvement expanded, and I became even more aware of the incredible dedication of the people who make Temple Israel what it is. We have many unsung heroes on our staff, our clergy team, and our board who make our phenomenal programs possible. I look forward to working with each of them and am grateful for their partnership, guidance, and commitment to continually inspire our congregation.
One of my highest priorities in my new position will be to help ensure that Temple Israel remains strong for generations to come. This effort will only be achieved by building upon the sound financial practices and thoughtful policies that support the long-term health of our congregation. Careful stewardship of our resources is essential to ensure the Temple we cherish today will remain vibrant and sustainable for future generations. We must also continue to promote the sense of community that has always defined Temple Israel. My hope is that every member feels welcomed, valued, and connected. Whether someone has been a member for decades or is walking through our doors for the very first time, Temple should feel like a place where we all belong. Temple Israel has always been a place where tradition and growth walk hand in hand. As we continue to care for and renew this campus through the Vision 2026 project, I am reminded how important it is that we preserve and strengthen Temple Israel for the next generation — l'dor vador. I encourage our members to find ways for even greater engagement because Temple Israel is at its best when our congregants participate, volunteer, and share their talents. The programs, learning opportunities, and celebrations we
Songwriter and prayer leader Elana Arian (right) sings the traditional Priestly Benediction during the Leadership Shabbat where Helen Scheidt was installed as President of Temple Israel. (L to R) Rabbi Micah Greenstein, Helen Scheidt, Rabbi Ross Levy, Rabbi Leah Sternberg, Cantorial Soloist Eleanor Tallie Steinberg and Elana Arian.
Births
Engagements
EMERSON EILEEN FINESTONE
Caroline and Edward Finestone celebrated the birth of their daughter, Emerson Eileen Finestone. She is the granddaughter of Cindy & Mark Finestone.
OLIVIA SCOTT SCHOLBERG
Mollie and Zach Scholberg celebrated the birth of their daughter, Olivia Scott Scholberg. She is the granddaughter of Emily & Scott Weaver, and Lisa & Kevin Scholberg, and the great-granddaughter of Mollie "Scottie" Davis, Dr. Norman H. Davis*, Sherry Goad* & Bill Weaver*, Barbara Youngman & Jerry Brown, Shirley* & Larry Vonk*.
experience together are possible because of the dedication of the many individuals who care so deeply. As we look toward the future, my hope is that we continue to honor the values that have sustained this congregation for generations while also embracing new ideas and opportunities that strengthen our community. If we remain committed to caring for one another, to welcoming new families, and to nurturing Jewish life for all ages, Temple Israel will continue to thrive for many generations to come.
The Leadership Shabbat was imbued with signs of continuity, including this photo of incoming, outgoing, and future presidents of Temple (L to R), Wendy Rotter, Helen Scheidt, and Sam Fargotstein.
New Members
RODNEY GUY WELLS
Madison and Alexander Wells celebrated the birth of their son, Rodney Guy Wells. He is the grandson of Dory and Wayne Sims, Dave Wells, Tracy Donahue, and Amy & Fred Lovelace.
RACHEL SIMONE MEYERS
Coby Sills and Russell Meyers celebrated the birth of their daughter, Rachel Simone Meyers. She is the granddaughter of Carla-Maria Meyers.
CELIA SCOTT WILLIAMS
Sophie Weiss-Williams and Cullen Williams celebrated the birth of their daughter, Celia Scott Williams. She is the granddaughter of JoJo Weiss & David Goodwin, Martin Weiss, and Jayne & Scott* Williams.
Rachel Stein and Charlie Trautmann Bar Mitzvah
Henry Gulner became a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, April 18.
Ruch and Nathan Evans
and William Fu
Catherine & Mark Zitzer
Terry Fink & Kathleen Jacobson Fink
Brief
Blachman & Jerry Kelly
2026 CONFIRMANTS
Front Row (Left to right): Karleigh Ring, Elizabeth Mintz, Frankie Pierce, Abby Portnoy, Leia Sherman, Blake Barden, Gillian Parker, Rabbi Leah Sternberg
Back Row: Theodore Karol, Isaak Cowens, Maggie Olswanger, Emma Iskiwitz, Kate Wexler, Jack Tavalin
Not pictured: Ari Usdan, Sam Cohen, and Isaak Pierce
(Left
Annual Meeting
Mazel Tovs
Retiring
Trustees
Ben
DONATIONS
According to the Talmud, giving is as important as all of the other commandments combined.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those listed below who generously contributed to the following funds between January 1, 2026 to March 31, 2026: Barbara K. Lipman Early Learning Center, Beulah R. Vosse Library, Brotherhood, Cemetery, Clergy’s Discretionary, The CollecTIve, General, Grounds & Beautification, Hohenberg-Scheidt Lifetime Learning, Mary Shainberg Archives, Temple Teens, Mildred Schwartz B’nai Mitzvah Scholarship, Museum, Music Program, Rabbi James A. Wax Fund for Social Justice, Service to the Blind, Sisterhood, Temple Israel University, Vision 2026 fund and the Wendy & Avron Fogelman Religious School. Your support is deeply appreciated and vital to our mission.
Jeffrey H. Manis Award Winner
Sam Fargotstein
Outstanding Staff Service Award Winners
FOR THE RECOVERY OF
Corey Steinberg
Susan & Raymond Evans
Dr. Paul King
Valerie & Thomas Arnold
Jeanne Danziger
Louise & Jerry Sklar
IN HONOR OF
Abe and Ernie Chanin
Marcy & Michael Blen
Alla Lubin
Erin Ostrow
Buz Katz
Jamie & Glenn Goldring
Dr. Cary Finn
Jamie & Glenn Goldring
Debbie Jackson
Amy Adelman
Dolph Simon
Terri Goodman
Emily Groff Heilborn
Donald Strauss
Henry Gulner
Susanne & Bruce Landau
Jan & Lee Stein
Deborah & Sam Brackstone
Jan Klein
Susanne & Bruce Landau
Connie & Mike Sherman
Jeremy Mandel
The Mandel Family
Jocelyn Wurzburg
Viki Poole
Hallie Elliot
Judy Royal
Lisa Usdan & David Portnoy
and Family
Jennifer Goldberg
Sylvia Appleton
Marla Shainberg
Melissa & Rich Faber
Viki Poole
Kennedy Campbell
Judy Royal
Dr. Margo Saharovichi
Bettye J Gronauer
Mark Finestone
Diane & James Vogel
Sally & Michael Pelts
Dr. Mike Dragutsky
Jamie & Glenn Goldring
Past Presidents of Temple Israel
Donald Strauss
Paula Jacobson
Hallie Elliot
Susanne & Bruce Landau
Rabbi Leah Sternberg
Margaret & Satish Kedia
Rabbi Micah Greenstein
The Family of Harve C. Stein
Golden & Steve Bearman
Ross Felt and Abigail Felt
Leslie & Mark Gillenson
Jean & Gary Diamond
Gregory Miles
Linda Bedrin
Rabbi Ross Levy
Gayle & Dave Woloshin
Lynn & Joel Weiner
Marilyn & Louis Glazer
Connie & Mike Sherman
Hallie Elliot
Susanne & Bruce Landau
Rodney Guy Wells
Dory & Wayne Sims
Brenda Wolf
Russell Strauss
Deedee & Ron Perel
Bitsy Kasselberg
Sandy Schwartz
Viki Poole
Bessie Margolin Evensky
Peggy & Sidney Evensky
Betty Pelts
Stacey & Michael Alpert
Bettye Berlin
Caren Yarmuth
Janet & Alan Farber
Rose & David Ross
Jo & Larry Epstein
Susan
2026 GRADUATING SENIORS
to Right): Karleigh Ring, Rabbi Leah Sternberg, Johanna Hughes, Madeline Barden, Grant Krulewitz, Samuel First, Sami Bray, Rabbi Micah Greenstein
Connie & Mike Sherman
Lisa & Jonathan Frisch
Cathy Poulin
Janet Kisber
Jane Lettes, Louis and Amy Lettes,
Jan and Bob Zauzmer, and Families
Cathy & Richard Kessler
Ron & Debbie Jackson
Bettye J Gronauer
David Neuman
Robin & Jeff Wallace
Karen & Michael Koplon
Stephanie & Joel Sklar and Family
Dr. David Rosenthal
Bonnie Roquita
David Wagner Neuman
Marcy & Michael Blen
Eve & Craig Lazarov
Dick Eiseman
Meryl Rosen
Felix Caldwell
Wendy & Avron Fogelman
Doris W. Buchalter
Carol B. Stapp, PhD
Beverly Buchalter
Dorothy S. Lewis
Ronny O'Mell and Steve O'Mell
Esther & Ronny O'Mell
Edith Whitman
Emily & Douglas Frisch
Elliot Slutsky
Debra & Alex Saharovich and Family
Amy & Michael Egerman
Gail Lewis
Emily Fargotstein Poe
Sandy Kessler & Michael Woolsey
Emily Van Savoren Weinberg
Ronald Weinberg
Erma Cohen
Wendy & Avron Fogelman
Ernest "Ernie" Bernhardt
Kurt Bernhardt and Sam Whitford
Ernest L. Adler
Ann & Larry Adler and Nini Bodenheimer
Ernest Ray Kaplan
Adele Kaplan
Esther Klyce Pearson
John Minervini
Esther Lubin
Eileen & Clay Foster
Amy & Michael Egerman
Connie & Mike Sherman
Fannie Gilbert Karchmer
Gail & Norm Stern
Florence Feldman Royal
Robert Royal
Frank Balkin
Lynn & Vic Butcher
Frank Rosenberg
Frida "Friderica" Saharovici
Sally & Michael Pelts
Susan & Raymond Evans
Amy & Michael Egerman
Millie & Alan Katzen
Cindy & Mark Finestone
Lisa Levi
Stanley Zitron
Evalyn & Phil Grossman
Stephanie & Barry Leff
Jill & Ken Steinberg
Debbie & Ron Lazarov
Robin & Billy Orgel
Karen & Michael Koplon
Stacey & Michael Alpert
Louise & Jerry Sklar
Rayna & Michael Greenberg
Herman Gruber
Lynn & Vic Butcher
Gerald Leonard Fried
Mimi Fried Davis
Jerry Fried
Marilyn Fried Glazer
Gregory Hays Meyer
Elise Meyer
Guy "Cotton" Rubenstein
Bunny & Wain Rubenstein
Harry Bloom
Toba & Leslie Kornberg
Harve Stein
Harriet & Lou Strasberg
Jean Ballin
Valerie & Thomas Arnold
Rabbi Jordan & Cynthia* Parr
Debbie & Ron Lazarov
Marcia Ann Weiss
Allan Hayden
Stacey & Michael Alpert
Sara Beth & George Silverman
Heinda Borowsky
Carole & Charles Plesofsly
Tianna Daniels
Helen Goldstrum Wax
Jonathan Wax
Helen Malkin Fink
Jill & David Buring
Helen Ruth Weisburd
Anonymous
Herbert Cohen
Michelle & Paul Clein
Debra & Alex Saharovich and Family
Jennifer & Joe Roberts
Beverly Buchalter
Hubert Maury Malkin
Janis & David Iansmith and Family
Ida Engelberg
Alec Engelberg
Leonard Engelberg, Alec and Paul
June Odegard
Gail Perlberg
Ike Baruchman
Beverly Buchalter
Issy Paul Engelberg
Leonard Engelberg and Family
Jack Steven Magids
Jan Magids
Jeff Greenberg
Janet Branson
Jerry Lang
Janet Brueck
Jet Tate
Amy & Michael Egerman
Susan & Raymond Evans
Jill Eileen Krivcher
Jan Magids
Jill Fisher
Marcia & Tom Fisher
Joan Jekels
Joan & Ken Goree
Joanne Moore
Connie & Art Cruthirds
Joel Felt
Ross Felt and Abigail Felt
Fredrika Felt
Jori Bernhardt-Curd
Kurt Bernhardt and Sam Whitford
Joseph Alperin
Jan Magids
Joseph Lebovitz
June Odegard
Leonard Engelberg
Karen Dau Kuperman
Melissa & Aaron Kuperman
Larry J. Goldsmith
Darryl LaVare
Larry Perlberg
Gail Perlberg
Freda & Leo Siegel
Anonymous
Leo R. Jalenak, Sr.
Peggy & L.R. Jalenak, Jr.
Lew Weinberg
Ronald Weinberg
Lewis Binder
Irma Binder
Lillian Solomon Greenberg
Phyllis & Jay Greenberg
Lilo Haas Brueck
Janet Brueck
Linda Cooper Young
Anita Cooper
Anonymous
Joyce & Fred Graflund
Sherri & Jim Steiger
Golden & Steve Bearman
Jan Magids
Diane & Mark Halperin
Diane Rudner
Belinda & Carl* Reiter
Madolyn Frockt
Roselle Lazarov
Sheri Spielman
Debbie & Ron Lazarov
Eileen & Steven Wishnia
Marcia Ann Weiss
Elise Meyer
Ed Goldberg & Robin Torch
Abbie & Scott Gold
Jean Ballin
Rochelle & Dr. Avron Slutsky
Linda Pelts
Louise Wolf Ellis
Michelle & Buddy Bernstein
Lyn Yukon
Marcy & Michael Blen
Jan & Lee Stein
Judy Kriger
Susan & Fred Feinberg
Russell Strauss
Debbie Jackson
Nancy Rosenberg
Lynn Gruber
Wendy & Avron Fogelman
Melanie Magnus
Elaina, Roy, and Morris Sexton
Melvin "Buddy" Ballin
Wendy & Avron Fogelman
Melvin H. "Bubba" Goldberg
Phyllis & Jay Greenberg
Melvyn Harris Kirsch
Ronni Kirsch
Michael Lightman
Greg Belz
Wendy & Avron Fogelman
Harriet & Louis Strasberg
Dr. Milton B. Seligstein
Myrna & Sonny Saloman
Miriam Alabaster
Steve Alabaster
Morris Katz
Elaina, Roy, and Morris Sexton
Muriel Blatt Zuckerman
Ronni Kirsch
Myron Lewis
Gail Lewis and Family
Nathan Loskovitz
Myrna & Myron Thomas
Nina Katz
Marilyn & Alan Magnus
Elaina Sexton
Othneil Samuel Wolfson
Deborah & Sam Brackstone
Patty Evans Wurzburg
Deborah & James Parker
Pauline Plesofsky
Sandra Kessler & Michael Woolsey
Philip Louis Kirsch
Ronni Kirsch
Phyllis Winston
Rebecca & Alvin Labens
Mary & Darryl Labens
Rebecca Meriwether Cooper Klyce
John Minervini
Rene Waller Karchmer
Barbara & A.W. Karchmer
Richard Dennis Miller
Deborah & Steve Bilsky
Richard Kisber
Janet Kisber
Steve Kisber
Rita Bricker Zukerman
Meryl Rosen
Viki Poole
Sara Beth & George Silverman
Elaine & Robert Kaufman
Diane & Lewis Reich
Liz Atterman
Debbie & Ron Jackson
Amy & Michael Egerman
Sondra Price
Susan & Raymond Evans
Jennifer & Mike Ross
Toba & Leslie Kornberg
Dr. Robert Buchalter
Beverly Buchalter
Carol B. Stapp
Ronald Krelstein
Linda Pelts
Rose Brown Kirsch
Ronni Kirsch
Rose Gerber Evans
Paula & Joel Picker
Rose Shainberg
Deanna Burson
Sadie Evensky Steinberg
Allan Hayden
Samuel Abraham
Sharon Gadless
Samuel Magids
Jan Magids
Sandy Goldstein Anonymous
Sara Natalie Cooper
Tracey & Ronnie Cooper
Sara Tupper Wagerman
Carole & Robert Pinstein
& Craig Lazarov
Caldwell
& Stephanie Leff
Rosen
Sarah Karno Jeffer
Lazarov Saul Perlman Frank Perlman Dr. Sheila Ruth Hollander Melissa Lee Buckingham-Adams
Dr. Sidney Friedman Susan & Abe Plough Sidney Lazarov
Bilsky
Don Levy
Dr. Fred Klyman
Linda Bedrin
Ina Plesofsky Eiseman
Carole & Charles Plesofsky
Deborah, David, and Daniel Frockt
Deedee & Ron Perel
Karen & Michael Koplon
Juliet & Jerry Klein
Mickey & Arthur Buring
Ellen & Sammy Salky
Hallie Elliot
