Messenger - March 2020

MESSENGER

104

volume

FROMB’NAI THE RABBI HIGHLIGHTS THECALENDAR SYNAGOGUE | CONGREGATION EMUNAH | TULSA | MARCH 2020

WE’VE GOT A PLAN FOR THAT: PURIM AT THE SYNAGOGUE—SEE PAGE 9

MASTHEAD APRIL HIGHLIGHTS

MILESTONES

Daniel S. Kaiman and Marc B. Fitzerman................. Rabbis 1 Dr. Elana Newman................................................ President Dr. John Schumann...................................... Vice-President 3 Heyman........... Vice-President for Finance/Treasurer Ross Nancy Cohen.......................................................... Secretary Jeremy Rabinowitz......... Synagogue Foundation President 5 Hillary Roubein.................................... Sisterhood President Sara Levitt..................Director of Jewish Life and Learning 9 Lehman.............................. Synagogue Administrator Betty Shelli Wright........................................... Preschool Director Simon 17 Lowen.............................................Program Director Valerie Henderson.............................................. Bookkeeper Brigid Kelley & Cheryl Myers......Co-Staff, Rabbis Offices 19 RedCorn......................................... Co-Receptionist Gwenn Nicki Johnson............................................. Co-Receptionist Nancy Cohen............................ Sisterhood Gift Shop Chair 25 Forrest Young...............................................Security Officer David Kraft...................................................Security Officer

CHALLAH BAKING

BIRTHS Noah Evan Cohen Son of Bryan and Karen Cohen Grandson of Nancy and Harvey Cohen

FIRST FRIDAY AT FLYLOFT

UNVEILING FOR IRVING FENSTER

IN MEMORIAM

SECOND SEDER AT THE SYNAGOGUE

Kay Oleinick Wife of Dr. Sam Oleinick

SHABBAT FOR EVERYONE

Frank Salle Brother of Fran Steinberg and Sherry Salomon Son of the late Abe and Ethel Salle

SEVENTEENTH STREET DELI

BAR MITZVAH OF RYAN LEVINE

MAZAL TOV To Janet Levit, on her appointment as Interim President of the University of Tulsa. Janet succeeds Dr. Gerry Clancy, who recently retired from his position.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

To Trevor Langston and Jeni Gregory on their recent engagement. Trevor is the son of Mimi Tarrasch and Richard Langston.

Steven Aberson Emily Melton Bolusky ON THE COVER Sharon Cash Brian Brouse The subject is Queen Esther, but the form Nancy Cohen Randee Charney may be unfamiliar.

Painted by Charles Carrillo, Barbara Eisen Mark Goldman a contemporary Rossdevotional Heyman Jake Lerner artist of Catholic images, this version of Esther isMatt a so-called Terry Marcum Katz Santa Ester, an unofficial saint of theRabinowitz Church, Jeremy Dr. Elana Newman much loved

by Jewish anusim, forced converts Debby Raskin David Sandler, M.D. to Catholicism. anusim have Angela TaubmanDescendants JohnofSchumann, M.D. been attracted to such images since the Eva Unterman Ricki Wimmer period of the Inquisition, when they opened Hillary Roubein opportunities to retain suppressed ceremonies.

Santa Esters may be seen in the American IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENTS Southwest, where they function as bultos (altar figures) or A. retablos (altar paintings).

Sally Donaldson

IN THE CITY AT LARGE MORE GREAT MUSIC IN TULSA Internationally renowned Israeli cellist Inbal Segev will perform in Tulsa on March 5. Ms. Segev plays with the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and has performed concertos with orchestras all over the world. She is also a champion of new music and will be performing a new piece for cello and electronics, “A Prayer for Those Who Look Away,” by Synagogue member Noam Faingold.

Craig Silberg Jolene Sanditen

The concert will take place at 8:30 p.m. at Duet Jazz as a part of the annual OK Electric Festival. Tickets are $10.

THE MESSENGER March 2020 - Published Monthly | Bimonthly

SECOND SEDER

CONGREGATION B’NAI EMUNAH

Please make your reservations at

1719 South Owasso Tulsa, Oklahoma 74120 Office: (918) 583‑7121 School: (918) 585‑KIDS Fax: (918) 747-9696 Website: www.tulsagogue.com

tulsagogue.com or call (918) 583-7121

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THE MARCH CALENDAR OF EVENTS 4

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CHALLAH BAKING

Four mitzvot animate the traditional approach to the Festival of Purim. Reading the megillah, enjoying a festive meal, giving gifts to each other, and giving gifts to the poor mark the day as distinct and unique. All are invited to gather in the chapel at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 10, for a short service during which we will chant the Book of Esther. Immediately following the service, we will serve a light breakfast and provide materials to fulfill the expectations of the day. We’ll conclude by 9:00 a.m. so that you can move into your day on the strength of the holiday.

There is nothing better than the sweet smell of challah filling your home on a Friday afternoon. We dig our hands into this dough and connect with generation upon generation who have formed these loaves as a way to celebrate Shabbat. Join us as we prepare our dough together and walk through the steps of making this bread for yourself. Our challah baking class begins at 6:00 p.m., and there is no cost to attend. Just call our office or email Brigid Kelley at bkelley@bnaiemunah.com to reserve your spot.

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SEVENTEENTH STREET DELI

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Authentic Jewish delicatessen in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Housecured pastrami and corned beef, fresh-baked rye bread, half-sour pickles, and the only thing missing is the Formica counter-top. You’re hungry for this and we’re ready to feed you. For just $18 a person, fulfill the nostalgic longing of the Jewish people over a deli dinner. Bring friends, bring neighbors, bring appetites! Visit tulsadeli.org today to reserve your spot. Dinner begins at 6:00 p.m.

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ERIK LARSON AND MAYOR G.T. BYNUM

New York Times bestselling author Erik Larson’s most recent book, The Splendid and the Vile, Vile, is a compelling portrait of Winston Churchill’s political leadership. Larson’s books have been published in nearly twenty countries. In conversation with Mayor G.T. Bynum, Erik Larson will visit the Synagogue on Thursday, March 12; the program will begin at 7:00 p.m.

Tickets are on sale now at www.magiccitybooks.com. Please see the article on page 9.

ALL THINGS CORONAVIRUS

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Immediately after the deli meal concludes, we’ll continue with Dr. Kitty Cardwell, OSU epidemiologist on the coronavirus outbreak. Starting time is 7:00 p.m. Please note that you don’t have to join in the deli dinner to hear Dr. Cardwell.

Please see the article on page 10.

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TRADITIONAL MEGILLAH READING

BIBI-DIBI

It’s a monthly Shabbat gathering for babies, toddlers, and their families. We sing songs, play games, and share in a beautiful Shabbat dinner. We see this as a lovely way to build your family traditions and connect with other young families. Be sure to wear fun socks! While no reservation is necessary for the 6:00 p.m. celebration, we do ask that you make reservations by calling or visiting our website if you plan to join us for the meal.

PURIM-PALOOZA

The entire community is invited to join in celebrating Purim at The Synagogue. Events begin at 5:30 p.m. with an optional delicious, festive dinner featuring homemade hamantashen for dessert. At 6:15 p.m., we’ll gather in the Sanctuary for an Interactive Megillah reading for the whole family.

The evening will culminate with the legendary Shushan-oCasbah-Rama, a Purim carnival for kids young and old. Inflatables, games, and face-painting abound as we celebrate with treats, hamantashen, popcorn, cotton candy, and so much more! Hope to see you there. Visit our website or call our offices to make your meal reservations soon. The cost for the meal is $14 for adults and $7 for kids 12 years of age and younger. Tots under 3 are $1. The megillah reading and carnival are free of charge. Participants are encouraged to come in costume. Please see the article on page 9.

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MIDRASHA IN NEW YORK CITY

Start spreading the news! Tulsa Midrasha is headed to New York City over Spring Break for a week of history, entertainment, food, and fun. Our teens will connect to the arrival of the Jews from Eastern Europe at Ellis Island, imagine their futures of Jewish experiences during and after college with Hillel at Columbia, and a unique program with Avodah: The Jewish Service Corps, see a Broadway show, explore the blend of art and social justice at The Jewish Museum, and so much more! Check out next month’s Messenger for details. (continued on page 5)

Bake Challah. Celebrate Life.

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BETTY LEHMAN

Join us for the 2020 Touro Celebration on Monday, May 11, 2020. Watch your mail for details.

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MARCH CALENDAR [CONC.]

FROM RABBI FITZERMAN

(continued from page 3)

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MEET THE NEW CHIEF ON MARCH 27

TALLGRASS PRAIRIE HIKE

We normally announce upcoming events in the appropriate section of the Messenger and leave it at that, but I want to underscore the importance of Shabbat for Everyone on Friday evening, March 27.

Spend time today with our own Simon Lowen as he takes a group from the Synagogue to the Tallgrass Prairie for an illuminating look at the topography of our state. The experience will begin at 9:00 a.m. at the Synagogue and hikers will return to Tulsa by the middle of the afternoon. Please see the article on page 11 of this isssue. Cost is $5 per person.

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On that evening, our special guest will be Major Wendell Franklin, veteran of more than two decades of service on the Tulsa Police Department. As you may have heard, Major Franklin has just been chosen as Tulsa’s new Chief of Police.

COOKING SCHOOL: SEDER SECRETS

One of four candidates for the position, Major Franklin was an especially experienced prospect. At different points along the way, he has held significant authority in three different department divisions, including Riverside, the division in which the Synagogue is set. In the course of his career, Major Franklin collected accolades of all kinds, including the esteem of his fellow officers. Despite his status, he was both modest and honest on hearing the news of his appointment, confessing that he was nervous and fearful of “messing up.”

The most daunting holiday meal? Maybe. But we think hosting Seder can be a pretty straightforward and manageable task.

Just let the B’nai Emunah Cooking School show you the way.

In this evening workshop, we’ll dig our hands into some essential recipes, learn skills that will save you time, and help you envision hosting a bountiful feast of your own. Along the way, we’ll enjoy good food and have a great time, too! Call our offices or visit the Synagogue website to register for this workshop or get more information. The class will begin at 7:00 p.m.

Space is limited, so sign up soon.

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Of special note is that Major Franklin is our fortieth Chief of Police and the first African-American to hold this position. It means that he will be in office during the city’s commemoration of the Race Massacre Centennial in 2021. For a city with a long history of problematic race relations, Franklin’s appointment points in a promising direction and may bring with it the potential for deeper reconciliation.

BOOKSMART: ANN PATCHETT

On Wednesday, March 25, at 7:00 p.m., we are proud to welcome bestselling author Ann Patchett in celebration of her latest novel, The Dutch House, House, a #1 New York Times bestseller, and one of Time Magazine’s 100 Must-Read Books of 2019. This is a ticketed event; each ticket includes one copy of The Dutch House and one seat at the event. Visit Magiccitybooks.com to purchase your tickets. See the article on page 9.

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Arrangements for the evening of March 27 will follow the normal pattern, with an optional Shabbat Dinner at 6:15 p.m. and a Klay Kodesh Shabbat celebration at 7:00 p.m. We expect that Chief Franklin will begin to address the congregation at approximately 7:30 p.m. A special Oneg Shabbat in the Chief’s honor will take place immediately following Adon Olam.

CHIEF WENDELL FRANKLIN AT CBE

All are invited, and no reservations are necessary for those who plan to join us at 7:00 p.m. If you’d like us to hold a place for you at dinner, please make your reservation online at tulsagogue.com or call Gwenn RedCorn or Nicki Johnson at (918) 583-7121.

Our monthly, all-ages, Shabbat for Everyone experience begins with a delicious dinner so you can relax and enjoy Shabbat with friends and family. We then move into the sounds and movements of a joyous Friday night celebration. This month we will welcome recently named Tulsa Police Chief Wendell Franklin as our special guest. Your feet will be stomping as the music carries us forward. See Rabbi Fitzerman’s article one column over.

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BETTY's FINE FOODS

MAKER JUDAISM: CANDLES FOR SHABBAT

OUR ANNUAL SALE OF KOSHER-FOR-

Do it yourself? Of course. As we all try to become less reliant on industry and manufacturing, let’s turn our attention to beeswax candles. Simple and satisfying to make, they’re a way of personalizing Shabbat as a deeply spiritual practice. Planned

by Simon Lowen, this workshop will begin with heavy hors d’oeuvres and proceed with an evening of making. Please see the article on page 11 and call the Synagogue to reserve a spot.

PASSOVER GOODS BEGINS MARCH 24.

PLEASE CALL BETTY AT (918) 583-7121 FOR SPECIAL REQUESTS.

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The Seventeenth Street Deli is now accepting orders for kosher-for-Passover briskets cooked and ready to go. Please call (918) 583-7121 to place your order by March 31. First come, first served. The price is $25 per pound (cooked), and each pound serves three adults.

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SISTERHOOD EVENTS | JANET DUNDEE

UPCOMING (CONCLUDED) LOOKING BACK

TOBIAS PICKER AT THE SYNAGOGUE

It is never too late to salute a very successful Sisterhood program. We are talking about the Mah Jongg Tournament which took place in December. Mah Jongg players and others donated 160 winter coats to Family and Children’s Services. Estimates of the value of all of those coats is at least $5,500. Sisterhood appreciates the dedicated work of Roxanne Imerson who propelled this coat drive.

Alice Blue has shared the news that Tulsa Opera Artistic Director, Tobias Picker, will be Sisterhood's guest on Sunday morning, April 12, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Synagogue, discussing the Tulsa Opera's production of Emmeline.

Emmeline is based on a true incident, captured in the book by Judith Rossner. It is the story of an American teenager who is forced to give up her illegitimate child for adoption, only to fall from grace when family secrets are revealed twenty years later.

Congratulations and thanks go to Barbara Eisen and Kristi Tarabolous who chaired this program. Graphic design was supplied by Laurie Berman, and wonderful, yummy snacks were organized by Nancy Cohen and Molly Berger. Let’s not forget the hard work of committee members Jolene Sanditen, Terry Marcum, and Dr. Jan Finer. Tiles and Tributes to all who participated in the Mah Jongg Tournament!

Tobias Picker, winner of the 2020 Grammy Award for his Fantastic Mr. Fox best opera recording, composed Emmeline which is sung in English and will be presented May 1 and 3.

SISTERHOOD SHABBAT

April 12 attendees will see a 15-minute film which explains the sad story of the real Emmeline. Mr. Picker will discuss how he got the idea for this opera, as well as how a New York City Jew landed in Tulsa as the Artistic Director of Tulsa Opera. He will also tell us how Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg, opera aficionado, was convinced to perform his wedding ceremony.

Once again Sisterhood members and congregants were impressed with the ability and dedication of the women who participated in Sisterhood Shabbat on January 25. Organized by Jackie Lasky, Jennifer Joels, Hillary Roubein, and Jodi Finer Zalk, the Shabbat morning service was fully conducted by women in the congregation.

Molly Berger, Dr. Jan Finer, and Betty Lehman presented a delicious Kiddush following services. Special thanks go to Debbye Zanerhaft for creating the CDs to assist the Torah readers; to Dennis Johnson for producing the Honors Cards; Altamont Bakery for baking cookies for the Kiddush; and the Synagogue staff, who always support every Sisterhood service and program.

This program is open to all congregants and friends.

Outstanding Passover treats will be served, along with coffee and tea. In addition, someone will win two tickets to a performance of Emmeline. If child care is required, please contact Sara Levitt at (918) 583-7121 for this free service.

Sisterhood Shabbat is an annual Shabbat service. We urge the women of the congregation to consider their place on the bima or preparing the Kiddush for next year’s service.

The next meeting of the Book Club, open to all congregants, will be on March 15, at 1:30 p.m. Attendees will meet at Marcy Cyter's studio and participate in a Skype discussion with author Julie Zuckerman about her debut novel The Book of Jeremiah.

SISTERHOOD BOOK CLUB

This novel-in-stories follows Jeremiah Gerstler, son of Jewish immigrants, from boyhood, through WWII military service, marriage and children, his career as a professor, and finally Jeremiah's retirement. The novel spans eight decades of Jeremiah's life and is interwoven with the 20th century Jewish experience.

Marcy Cyter's studio is located at 2020 East 11 Street.

This Skype experience is a first for Sisterhood's Book Club and should make for an exciting afternoon.

Tobias Picker of Tulsa Opera. See next column for details.

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RABBI KAIMAN

ONWARD AND UPWARD

A TASK WITHOUT THANKS

SIMON LOWEN

Religious traditions are supposed to help us make sense of the world. Rituals offer guidance. They are formulas to follow. They are behaviors we turn to when things feel out of control or when we simply cannot figure out what to do next. As anyone who has looked carefully at religion can attest, sometimes these rules are rituals that make perfect sense. Other times, the rituals can seem burdensome, intrusive, or even out of place.

Watch the next edition of the Messenger for a formal announcement about our new full-time Program Director, Simon Lowen. But in the meantime, we’re delighted to say that Simon has arrived and you will see his name in several places in this issue. Simon will be working in all areas of the Synagogue’s program, with special attention to engaging young professionals. He’ll be working side-by-side with Sara Levitt and the rest of the Synagogue professional family to open up opportunities for engagement and leadership development.

Please make sure that you meet Simon the next time you are at the Synagogue!

My own training in our tradition always underscored the tension we might feel as we navigate that which makes intuitive sense alongside things that might not make sense anymore. The Sages of the Talmud set a precedent for interpretation and exploration, which looks to innovate while simultaneously preserving what is essential and necessary. But amidst all of this, there are sometimes rituals that just make sense. Their explanations can vary, but the sensible rightness of these actions is plain and obvious.

For me, the prime example here is a task called shemira. When a member of the Jewish community passes away, we work very hard to ensure that the body never sits alone from the time of death until burial. The compelling reason for me? It just feels wrong to do anything else.

Of course, this task, like any, has its challenges and complications. Deaths do not occur on schedule and often come connected to a period of uncertainty for the grieving family. Yet, quietly our members organize themselves into shifts for coverage around the clock. Together, they make sure our loved ones are never left alone. The mitzvah itself is for the deceased, which makes it the ultimate “thankless” task. But that thanklessness extends one step further. Members of this group, like the Chevra Kadisha, often remain anonymous. It’s a sort of secret society where the central act is service to others.

The rhythms of this mitzvah sometimes demand that we have many people available to serve in this role. A fellow member of the congregation serves as coordinator and directs traffic when needed, but there’s lots of room for more involvement. If any of what I have said here feels appealing or intriguing, I’d love to speak with you further. The task is holy and thankless. But that is also why it just makes so much sense.

At our Shabbat celebration on March 27, we’ll gather at 7:00 p.m., and announce all the yahrtzeits you ask us to name. Please call Brigid or Cheryl at (918) 583-7121 to let us know you’re coming so that we can make sure that your loved one is listed.

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SPECIAL EVENTS AT CONGREGATION B’NAI EMUNAH The book has been called “a kind of Downton on Downing,” and provides a comprehensive portrait not just of Churchill’s “Secret Circle” of political advisers but also his family (wife Clementine, son Randolph, and daughters Sarah, Diana, and Mary) as they navigate one of the most eventful years in British history. Larson’s work is informed by new sources such as recently declassified government files and personal diaries.

PURIM AT THE SYNAGOGUE ON MARCH 9 It’s the Jewish carnival season at Congregation B’nai Emunah. Costumes, dancing, confetti, toys! Purim-Palooza is one massive celebration that you will not want to miss. The holiday of Purim is the time of year when we recall the story of Queen Esther and the triumphant victory over the evil Haman, who plotted to destroy the Jews. On this day, we celebrate the distinction between good and evil, and the ability for the righteous to prevail even in the most dangerous circumstances.

Highlighting the theme of political leadership, Mayor G.T. Bynum will join the author in a conversation. The event takes place on Thursday, March 12, at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are now on sale at www.magiccitybooks.com.

On Monday, March 9, at 5:30 p.m. our evening will begin with an optional Purim feast. At 6:15 p.m., we’ll delight in an interactive, musical Megillah reading. And by 7:00 p.m., we will let loose at the most fantastic carnival you’ve ever seen.

There will be new games and toys. Balloon artists, face painting, and games will delight and engage people of all ages. And don’t forget all the necessary delicious treats. This multi-generational event is fun for the entire family.

To make reservations for the optional meal, please visit our website at tulsagogue.com or call the Synagogue offices at (918) 583-7121. No reservations are necessary for the Megillah reading and carnival. If you’d like to be part of the carnival host team facilitating activities and running concessions, please contact Simon Lowen, our new Program Director (official introduction to follow!).

On Tuesday morning, March 10, at 8:00 a.m., a group will gather for a short, traditional service followed by a traditional chanting of Megillat Esther in Hebrew. All are welcome.

Later in the month, we will be visited by acclaimed writer Ann Patchett who recently released a new novel, The Dutch House. Already a New York Times #1 Bestseller, the book has been widely praised by book reviewers and readers alike. The story explores the bond between two siblings, the house of their childhood, and a past that will not let them go. Set over

SPEAKING SCHEDULE, MARCH 12 + 25 We are excited to announce two upcoming programs in the Synagogue’s Speaker Series. As always, we are happy to partner with Magic City Books in producing these events. Please note that these events are ticketed and require the purchase of a book for admission. Should the cost of tickets be a barrier to your participation, please contact Rabbi Kaiman.

(continued on page 10)

Named one of the most anticipated books of 2020 by The Washington Post, Erik Larson’s The Splendid and the Vile offers a portrait of Winston Churchill and London during the Blitz. With five national best-sellers to his credit (Dead Wake, In the Garden of Beasts, Thunderstruck, The Devil in the White City, and Isaac’s Storm), Erik Larson has collectively sold more than nine million books. His works have been published in nearly twenty countries and he is widely acclaimed as one of the leading non-fiction writers of our generation.

The Splendid and the Vile tells the story of Churchill’s eventful first year as British Prime Minister amidst the escalating war with Nazi Germany. It begins with Churchill’s election to office on May 10, 1940, and ends a year later on May 10, 1941, the final and most intense night of the German Blitz.

MAKE YOUR DELI RESERVATION TODAY 9

SPECIAL EVENTS AT CONGREGATION B’NAI EMUNAH [CONT.]

UPCOMING (CONCLUDED) (continued from page 9)

ALL THINGS CORONAVIRUS ON MARCH 8

the course of five decades, The Dutch House is a dark fairy tale about two smart people who cannot overcome their past.

Cruise ship quarantines, activist doctors, and a fast-spreading virus: these are the type of headlines that could keep you up late at night. And it can be especially difficult to make sense of these unfolding events.

Ann Patchett is the author of seven novels, The Patron Saint of Liars, Taft, The Magician’s Assistant, Bel Canto, Run, State of Wonder, and Commonwealth. She was the editor of Best American Short Stories 2006, and has written three books of nonfiction–Truth & Beauty, about her friendship with the writer Lucy Grealy; What Now? an expansion of her graduation address at Sarah Lawrence College; and This is the Story of a Happy Marriage, a collection of essays examining the theme of commitment. In 2019, she published her first children’s book, Lambslide, illustrated

by Robin Preiss Glasser.

Fortunately for us, Dr. Kitty Cardwell is both a member of our congregation and an expert in the field of microbial epidemiology. Director of the National Institute for Microbial Forensics and Food and Agricultural Biosecurity at Oklahoma State University, Dr. Cardwell brings breadth and depth to what for many of us is a new topic.

On Sunday evening, March 8, at 7:00 p.m., immediately following dinner at the Seventeenth Street Deli, Dr. Cardwell will speak on Epidemiology and the Coronavirus. Please note that the Deli and the lecture are separate events. No reservations are necessary to hear Dr. Cardwell and all are welcome to join in the conversation. For more information, contact Simon Lowen at (918) 583-7121.

A graduate of Sarah Lawrence College and the Iowa Writer’s Workshop, Patchett has been the recipient of numerous awards and fellowships, including England’s Orange Prize and the PEN/Faulkner Award. Her work has been translated into more than thirty languages. In November 2011, she opened Parnassus Books in Nashville, Tennessee, with her business partner Karen Hayes. She has since become a spokesperson for independent booksellers, championing books and bookstores. In 2012 she was named by Time magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World. Patchett’s visit will take place on Wednesday, March 25, at 7:00 p.m. Purchase your tickets for this event by visiting www.magiccitybooks.com.

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Cooking School: Seder Secrets on March 24.

Register Now by Phone or ON OUR Website.

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FROM SARA LEVITT

SPECIAL EVENTS [CONCLUDED]

UPCOMING (CONCLUDED) THINKING ABOUT PURIM

TALLGRASS PRAIRIE TRIP ON MARCH 22 Fancy a marvelous trip to the prairie, with spring breezes delighting the senses? On March 22, we’ll gather at the Synagogue at 9:00 a.m. for bagels and cream cheese. We’ll make sandwiches and snacks, packing them up for a picnic, and then pile into a 12-passenger van and head on out to the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve!

The Purim story is one of many which features the Jews of the Diaspora living as outsiders in a foreign land. Remarkably, Queen Esther, a Jew, is able to rise to the throne by cloaking her identity until she reveals herself to the King in an effort to save her people.

Esther’s concealing of her Jewish identity in a kingdom where being Jewish was difficult is not particularly surprising. It is easy to blend in and to omit those things that make us different from others. Esther’s reveal and a subsequent plea to her husband to save the Jewish people make her one of the favorite heroines in our tradition.

There we’ll learn about ecology, history, conservation, and earth-based Judaism, surrounded by the largest remaining swath of tallgrass prairie on Earth, as we wander the 2-mile Prairie Earth Trail.

We’ll indulge with a yummy picnic, some scintillating conversation, and stellar company, before heading back home to arrive at the Synagogue before 3:30 p.m. The trip will be led by Simon Lowen, our new Program Director, who brings with him an abundance of experience in trekking, environmental activism, and sustainability. Think of this as the opening chapter of PrairieJews at Congregation B’nai Emunah. Call in with your reservation.

But let’s imagine what it would have been like for Esther to admit her Jewish identity from the start. How could the story have been different if Esther taught the King and his court about Jewish practice and found common ground with them? What story would we tell?

Sometimes it is the inaction of others that gives us the greatest perspective and learning. Esther reminds me of the opportunity to create a shared understanding between our neighbors and friends of different faiths and to declare openly and proudly the values of the Jewish people. At the Synagogue, we embrace the opportunity for rich interfaith dialogue and partnership with people of different faiths. As the chair of the Youth Committee for OCCJ and a new member of Catholic Charities NextGen Committee, I am happy to be doing the important work of being an ambassador for the Jewish people and our community in particular.

Please note this hike is open to persons 13 and older and should be a welcoming experience for novices. Please dress for the weather in footgear appropriate to following an unpaved path. Cost? $5 per person.

MAKER JUDAISM ON MARCH 30 If the therapeutic smell of beeswax, combined with handson crafting of useful and beautiful candles for Shabbat, nestling on top of delicious heavy hors d’oeuvres and wonderful company sounds up your alley, come out on Monday evening, March 30. Call in with your reservation.

What could Esther have done with a program like OCCJ and a partnership with Catholic Charities? Probably a great deal. In this work, we can prevent the Hamans of the world from emerging, and bring about a time of peace and understanding in our community and the world. Interested in getting more involved? Please don’t hesitate to be in touch!

We’ll start with delicious heavy hors d’oeuvres at 7:00 p.m., and candle-making promptly at 7:30 p.m. Beeswax candlemaking is a simple and satisfying process, so no prior experience is necessary. A $5 contribution is requested.

Please note that this experience is intended for adult members of the congregation. Our students will have many other opportunities to make candles of their own!

MANY THANKS Todah rabbah to Jackie Lasky and Wendy Weisberg for baking kugels to stock our freezer for meal deliveries. Interested in baking or delivering for Bikkur Cholim? Please be in touch with Sara Levitt at slevitt@bnaiemunah.com.

There's still time to send Altamont Cookies as your Purim gift!

Please call Nancy Cohen at (918) 633-1491 to place your order.

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CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE SYNAGOGUE Altamont Bakery Fund

Rabbi Marc Boone Fitzerman Discretionary Fund

Michael and Cindy Guterman

Morris and Toby Fell Landscaping Fund

Gary and Martha Leff

Toby Fell

Fred Dorwart, Laura, Erica, Wynn, and Tobyn

Joe and Dorothy Katz Senior Adult Fund

Dr. Jan and David Finer

Dr. Jacob and Kristi Tarabolous Isrella Taxon

Susan Contente and G. Kurt Piehler Julie Frank

Jerry and Elaine Muhlberg

Ann Beerman Flower and Garden Fund

Louis Klein Nursery Fund

Dr. Jan and David Finer

Courtney Frederick

Michael and Cindy Guterman

Drew MacDonald

Stan and Klara Klein

Todd and Kim Alexander

Ashley Frederick Vicki Frederick

Norman and Shirley Levin Fund for Prayerbook Publication

Ashley Frederick Courtney Frederick Vicki Frederick Laura and Tim Howard Drew MacDonald Howard and Jill Mizel

Debbie and Mel Hallerman

Phyllis Raskin

Andrew and Terry Marcum

Rabbi Arthur D. Kahn, D. D., Culture Fund

Robinowitz Library Fund

Nancy Resnick

Jerry and Susan Sokol

Bikur Cholim Fund Anna Hudson

Elaine and Albert Weise

Building and Grounds Fund Jason Brimer and Mary Cantrell

George and Bonnie Kennedy

Rabbi Daniel S. Kaiman Discretionary Fund Todd and Kim Alexander Julie Frank Ashley Frederick Courtney Frederick

Edgar and Isabel Sanditen Preschool Fund Michael Borofsky

Vicki Frederick Joe Kleiner Drew MacDonald

Rose Borg Sukkah Fund Rosalyn Borg (St. Louis)

Scott Foreman Zarrow Rabbinic Endowment Jolene Sanditen

Dr. Sam Oleinick John Seibold

Ashley Frederick

Sherry and Steve Salomon

Courtney Frederick

Charles and Frances Steinberg

Vicki Frederick

Scott Sanditen Memorial Community Service Fund Jolene Sanditen and Family

Drew MacDonald Oriann Phillips

Synagogue Endowment

Environmental Education Fund Eva Unterman

Vellie Bloch Marvin and Faye Robinowitz

Maxine Milgrim Dr. Jacob and Kristi Tarabolous

JOIN US ON SUNDAY, MARCH 22 FOR TRIP TO THE

TALLGRASS PRAIRIE WITH SIMON LOWEN. SEE PAGE 11 FOR DETAILS.

CONTRIBUTIONS [CONTINUED] Synagogue General Fund

In Memory Of

Bernard Backer

Howard Alexander

O’Neil Cobb

Sandy Blumenthal

Ashley Frederick

David “Toots” Borochoff

Courtney Frederick

Jerry Y. Borofsky

Vicki Frederick

Arthur Brimer

Samuel and Sheila Harding

Marion and Phyllis Brodsky

Allan and Elaine Jeffy

Lois Contente

Betty and Keith Lehman

Reine-Anne (Nanu) Dorwart

Paul Levy

Jules Edelman

Drew MacDonald

Loren Frederick

Andrew and Terry Marcum

Dr. Eric Glichouse

Jeffrey and Elizabeth Rambach

Bessie Goldsmith

Jolene Sanditen

Sylvia Golsen

Darryl Sartwell

Ursula Guterman

John Seibold

Marvin Hart

Irene Silberg

Ossie E. Hudson

Kevin Thomas

Herman Jeffy

Barbara and Ronald Winder

Ralph Jeffy

Jan and Rudy Winzinger

Nathan Kleiner

The Religious School Fund Dr. Harvey Blumenthal

Phyllis W. Mendlowitz

Mary Raskin Mel Resnick Frances Robinowitz Freda Robinson Frank Salle Scott Sanditen Gilbert Schechtman Gene Serlin Seymour Shapiro Darrell and Sylvia Smith David John Tarabolous Norman Tugenberg Minnie Freigher Weinstein Dorothy Wolowitz

In Honor Of Maya and Dancy Apple, on their wedding Arielle Auerbach, on her bat mitzvah Scott Biespiel, on his birthday Anya Max, granddaughter of Rabbi Fitzerman and Alice Blue, on her birth

Fannie Miller Adolf Neuwald Kay Oleinick

MAKER JUDAISM

CANDLEMAKING 101 Shabbat. Chanukah. Cozy Nights at Home.

See page 11 for details.

march | adar-nisan 1

Sunday

9:00 AM ShulSchool 10:30 AM To+Gather 5:30 PM Service

2

Monday

3

5:30 PM Service 7:00 PM Adult Institute at the JCC

Tuesday

5:30 PM Service 1:00 PM Altamont Baking

4

Wednesday

9:00 AM Altamont Packing 4:00 PM Hebrew Lab 5:30 PM Service 6:00 PM Challah Baking 6:30 PM Midrasha

Thursday

5

5:30 PM Service

6

Friday

5:30 PM Service 6:03 PM Candles 6:23 PM Sunset

Saturday

7

8:30 AM Siddur Study 9:00 AM Shabbat Service 6:30 PM Closing Service 6:45 PM Havdalah

Torah: Tetzaveh

8

9:00 AM ShulSchool 5:30 PM Service 6:00 PM 17th Street Deli 7:00 PM The Coronavirus Crisis

9

10

5:15 PM Service 5:30 PM Purim Dinner 6:15 PM Purim Megillah and Carnival

8:00 AM Purim Service and Traditional Megillah 1:00 PM Altamont Baking 5:30 PM Service 7:00 PM Board of Directors

11

9:00 AM Altamont Packing 4:00 PM Hebrew Lab 5:30 PM Service 6:30 PM Midrasha

12

5:30 PM Service 7:00 PM Booksmart: Erik Larson

13

5:30 PM Service 6:00 PM Bibi-Dibi 7:10 PM Candles 7:30 PM Sunset

14

8:30 AM Siddur Study 9:00 AM Shabbat Service 7:40 PM Closing Service 7:50 PM Havdalah

Torah: Ki Tisa

15

5:30 PM Service 1:30 PM Sisterhood Book Club

16

17

5:30 PM Service

1:00 PM Altamont Baking 5:30 PM Service

18

9:00 AM Altamont Packing 5:30 PM Service

19

5:30 PM Service

20

5:30 PM Service 7:16 PM Candles 7:36 PM Sunset

9:00 AM Prairie Tallgrass Hike 5:30 PM Service

29

9:00 AM ShulSchool 5:30 PM Service

23

5:30 PM Service

30

5:30 PM Service 7:00 PM Candlemaking 101

24

9:00 AM Passover Food Sale Begins 1:00 PM Altamont Baking 5:30 PM Service 7:00 PM Cooking School: Seder Secrets

31

1:00 PM Altamont Baking 5:30 PM Service

25

9:00 AM Altamont Packing 4:00 PM Hebrew Lab 5:30 PM Service 6:30 PM Midrasha 7:00 PM Booksmart: Ann Patchett

8:30 AM Siddur Study 9:00 AM Shabbat Service 7:45 PM Closing Service 7:55 PM Havdalah

Torah: Vaykhel Pekuday

Midrasha Spring Break Trip to New York City

22

21

26

5:30 PM Service

Rosh Chodesh Nisan

27

5:30 PM Service 6:15 PM Shabbat Dinner 7:00 PM Shabbat for Everyone with Chief Wendell Franklin 7:22 PM Candles 7:42 PM Sunset

28

8:30 AM Siddur Study 9:00 AM Shabbat Service 7:50 PM Closing Service 8:00 PM Havdalah

Torah: Vayikra

THE SYNAGOGUE

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage

CONGREGATION B’NAI EMUNAH

PAID

Tulsa, Oklahoma Permit No. 587

1719 South Owasso Avenue Tulsa, Oklahoma 74120 P.O. Box 52430 Tulsa, Oklahoma 74152

YAHRTZEIT CALENDAR­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ — 5 ADAR 5780 THROUGH 6 NISAN 5780 Sunday, March 1 - 5 Adar A. Lou Brouse Rose Degen Adolph H. Eichenberg Sarah Finkelstein Gertrude Kantor Dr. Gerald Sanford Richards Mendel Rubin Abraham Sucherman Monday, March 2 - 6 Adar Fred Fidanque Adeline Fish Gertie Nissim Herbert Morris Paul Sam Plost Dorothy Pruitt Rainey Jack J. White Tuesday, March 3 - 7 Adar Florentine Binstock Mischa Abraham Kahn Rose Kantor Louis Lederman Sol Panken Charles Rosenthal Maurice Schwartz Ruth Snitz Wednesday, March 4 - 8 Adar Benjamin Albert Abraham Goldstein Mary Kallmeyer Bella Kopp Harry Kravetz Ethel Markus Elliott Mason Dean Sanditen Sheldon Tilkin Bessie Zeff Thursday, March 5 - 9 Adar Paul Friedman Friday, March 6 - 10 Adar Edwin Marcum Minnie Moran Lee Roodman Beatrice A. Rotman Bessie Zeldich Ungerman Saturday, March 7 - 11 Adar Isadore C. Alamar Julius Bookman Eva Brouse Elayne Cohen Bess Heyman Nathan Magoon Bess Hass Robinson

Sunday, March 8 - 12 Adar George Fischbein Irvin Frank Sam Rothman Louis S. Rubin Scott Sanditen Yom Tov Sobel Monday, March 9 - 13 Adar Arnold Schreier Leonard A. Springer Leona Taylor Jerome R. Watt Jack J. Weisberg Elijah Zacharin Tuesday, March 10 - 14 Adar Helen Abrahamson Larry Jacobs George Kahn Sam Katz Donald Peckner Harry J. Warshaw Irving Zeff Sam Zeligson Wednesday, March 11 - 15 Adar Michael Andelman Max Bengels Mia Sarah Cyter Mary Sterba Emil Turk Thursday, March 12 - 16 Adar Goldie Avery Hilda Cyter Rose Fischbein Leona Glazer Michael Guterman Agar Levin Friday, March 13 - 17 Adar Jean Zelda Eichenberg Irving Fenster Mildred T. Sanditen Phillip Sokol Max R. Travis Ann Freed Weisman Saturday, March 14 - 18 Adar Stan Burnstein Morris Butkin Martin R. Kopelman Stanley Silberg Sunday, March 15 - 19 Adar Aaron Appelsies Larry Fasel Donald N. Irwin

Elma Frances Jankowsky Jennie Rozen Ben Schwartz Frank Sitrin Rose Smith Dr. Joseph Stovin Monday, March 16 - 20 Adar Estelle H. Berger Betty Kaplan Florence Klein Max Ruby Morris Schuman Herbert Unterman Tuesday, March 17 - 21 Adar Marla Brody Joyce Epperson Lorraine Klein Juby Celia Klein Esther Kurtz Wednesday, March 18 - 22 Adar Evelyn S. Alster Irving Borg Ariella Buckmaster Marian Darmstadter Abe Salle Thursday, March 19 - 23 Adar Bill (Wm.) E. Meyer Seymour Price Steven Sanditen Sy Sweet Friday, March 20 - 24 Adar Alfred E. Aaronson Myron W. Glichouse Amelia Josey Joan Kutner Isaac Lebow Miles Schuman Asher Zeldich Saturday, March 21 - 25 Adar Chasye Dundee Neta H. (Blumenfeld) Dundee Ronnie Singer Larry Sitrin Sunday, March 22 - 26 Adar Sam R. Dritch Bernard Jacobs Alexander Urban Monday, March 23 - 27 Adar Morrey Frey John Payne Hammond Henry Levy

Elsie Moran George Joseph Renberg Jack Winer Tuesday, March 24 - 28 Adar Bessie Contente Norman Lewis Frey Anna Glenn Diane G. Kaiser Sheine Mehl Sarah Schusterman Ida Sucherman Jerry Wolens Wednesday, March 25 - 29 Adar Anna Apt George Fein Joe Levit Israel James Miller Samuel Schiff Thursday, March 26 - 1 Nisan Joseph S. Kantor Shimon Sam Mizel Morris Mizel Morris Myers Dr. Herbert Prussack Friday, March 27 - 2 Nisan Charles Borochoff Nadine Iola Wise Irene Renee Kasner Ilse Schwarz Mark Seigel Sol Spector Bernice Stekoll Benjamin Franklin Stockfish Saturday, March 28 - 3 Nisan Celia Davis Barbara Rambach Eva Rashbaum Sunday, March 29 - 4 Nisan Henry “Hank” Alcouloumre Monroe “Jim” Friedman Max Wolens Monday, March 30 - 5 Nisan Joe Bobrow H.C. Bortel Maxine Jeffy Etta Price Tuesday, March 31 - 6 Nisan Odie McReynolds Nathan Mizel Milford S. Ungerman

May their souls be bound up in the bond of life everlasting. Please note that each yahrtzeit begins at sunset on the day before the date listed.