Washington Hebrew Congregation "Journal"

AUGUST 2018 / AV–ELUL 5778

VOL. 59, NO. 7

AUGUST 2018

VOL. 59, NO. 7

Washington Hebrew Congregation Clergy

M. Bruce Lustig, Senior Rabbi Susan N. Shankman, Rabbi Aaron Miller, Associate Rabbi Eliana Fischel, Assistant Rabbi Mikhail Manevich, Cantor Susan R.A. Bortnick, Cantor

Senior Staff – Education

SUPPORTED BY AN ENDOWMENT FROM LIBBY AND MELVIN MANDEL

DJ Schneider Jensen Head of Schools, Early Childhood Education Ira Miller, Director of Informal Education Stephanie Tankel, Director of Religious Education

Senior Staff – Administration

In This Issue Rabbi’s Reflection: Rabbi Eliana Fischel................................................3 President’s Column..............................................................................4 Rabbi’s Reflection: Rabbi M. Bruce Lustig.............................................5 WHC’s Summer in Israel, a Photo Retrospective...................................6 Selichot Concert and Service................................................................ 7 WHC High Holy Days.........................................................................8 Summary of Findings From Our Visioning Effort................................. 10 The Path to Wise Aging...................................................................... 13 WHC Programs & Events................................................................... 14 August Calendar................................................................................. 15 B’nei Mitzvah.................................................................................... 16 Life Cycle........................................................................................... 16 Contributions..................................................................................... 18 Shabbat at the Shapiros’..................................................................... 22

Steven Jacober, Executive Director Lindsay Fry Feldman, Director of Member Services Naomi Abelson Gohn Director of Temple Programs & TOV Mohan Mistry, Director of Engineering & Maintenance Eliza Prince, Director of Development Stephen Stoupa, Director of Finance Susan J. Hanenbaum, Executive Director Emerita

Officers

Nell Shapiro, President Mark Director, First Vice President Janet Katz, Vice President Andrew Lazerow, Vice President Jeffrey Weiss, Vice President Kimberly Wachen, Treasurer Richard Newman, Assistant Treasurer Deborah Goldman, Secretary Dan Werner, Assistant Secretary Lewis Wiener, General Counsel

Board of Directors

Jami Axelrod Ellen R. Berlow Barry Chasen Sharon Jaffe Dan Beth Levin Dubin Betty Jane Eichberg Joseph Firschein Susan B. Gerson Edward P. Joseph Anne Lackritz Jeremy London Alejandro (Ali) Mayorkas

Past Presidents Leonard I. Abel David Astrove David R. Berz Stuart L. Bindeman Earl M. Colson Meg Jacobs Flax Jay W. Freedman

David Metzner William Miller Sandy Nesbit Ari Redbord Steven A. Robins Andrea Rubinfeld Lynn Sachs Melissa Schwartz Aaron W. Stopak Paula Tiedemann Philip Urofsky Kimberly Vogel

Susan J. Hanenbaum Sherry Bindeman Kahn Richard D. Kaufmann Hank D. Levine Kenneth L. Marks Paul J. Mason

John M. Nannes Lauren S. Racoosin Froma Sandler Bob M. Shapiro David A. Vise Richard M. Young Peter L. Winik

Auxiliary Presidents & Contacts

Delivery issues with the June/July WHC Journal: We know you look forward to receiving the WHC Journal each month and the insights, Temple news, and resources it provides. Unfortunately, our most recent Journal, a combined issue for June and July, was delivered to most of our members nearly a month late, even though it was printed and available for mail on time. We have learned that the amount of political mail generated by the recent primary elections was most likely the cause of Postal Service delay.

We regret that our newsletter didn’t reach all of you in a timely manner and are planning to ensure that this doesn’t happen again.

On the cover: Rabbi Lustig performs his magic, captivating and connecting with our little Camp Keetov campers on Shabbat.

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2239: Valerie Hillman Bluestein The Boomers: Jeanne Fleming Brotherhood: Alan Singer Couples Club: Kim & Brian Cooper, Chris McCannell & Ven Neralla EmptyNesters: Joan Adoff, Ruth Seif, Marcia Weinberg Prime Timers: Phyllis Belford, Sandy Grant Sisterhood: Ellen M. Miller WHECTY: Ian Rosenthal

We Can Be Reached

Temple Office ........................................ 202-362-7100 (M-Th: 9:00 am – 5:30 pm; F: 8:30 am – 4:00 pm) Weekends/After Hours ...........................202-895-6341 Temple Fax ..............................................202-537-1091 Julia Bindeman Suburban Center ............ 301-279-7505 Julia Bindeman Suburban Center Fax ..... 301-354-3200 Listen In .................................................202-895-6333 Live Streaming of Services......streaming.whctemple.org Website .................................................whctemple.org Jennifer Millstone, Editor, jmillstone@whctemple.org The Washington Hebrew Congregation Journal (Permit No. 4240) is published 11 times a year by Washington Hebrew Congregation. Send address changes to 3935 Macomb Street NW, Washington, DC 20016.

Rabbi’s Reflection Rabbi Eliana Fischel

M

y first hours as an interviewee at Washington Hebrew Congregation spoke volumes. Instead of clergy or board members — the usual suspects for a rabbinic multi-day interview — I first met with a group of teens. We sat and spoke about what they loved about WHC. We discussed their concerns as students and people. We discussed what they would look for in a rabbi if they were hiring. I already knew WHC teens would be smart. However, their ability to share and speak about their community shocked me. They knew the ways in which WHC provided family and safety for them as they navigated adolescence.

They knew the importance of this place and Judaism.

for my Beloved and my Beloved is for me” (Song of Songs 6:3). Originally written as a line between lovers, the Rabbis reimagined this statement as one of covenant between the Israelites and God. Today, we use this verse with both intentions. Couples often engrave these words on their wedding rings to immortalize their dedication to each other; and it is also part of our Kabbalat Shabbat prayers, honoring the Israelite-God relationship that takes center stage on Shabbat.

In both instances, we employ the verse to describe a special relationship: a relationship in which both parties hear and respect each other; a relationship in which both feel “beloved”; a relationship that is inherently holy; a covenantal relationship.

Afterward, my husband, Eric, and I were taken to a congregant’s home for dinner.

We were greeted not only with a delicious meal, but also by different representations of WHC congregants. Everyone had name tags — a blessing for a new rabbi! Even though some attendees did not know one another, they spoke openly about their lives and the role WHC played in those lives. Once again, I was shocked. A couple opened their home, not only to a prospective rabbi, but also to other congregants whom they may or may not have known, cooked a delicious meal, and provided a welcoming environment.

In this month of Elul, I propose a new relational metaphor for this verse: that of congregation and rabbi. Although I may not have met you yet, we are already in a covenantal relationship. Ours is a relationship that is intrinsically holy.

However, feeling and comprehending this holiness takes some work. For one, it takes knowing each of you and remembering you by name—a task that is difficult for me, so please be patient! More importantly, it takes trust and reciprocity.

“Ani l’dodi v’dodi li” appears intentionally parallel. What one side does, the other responds in kind. I will put all I can into our covenantal relationship, and I look forward to honoring your contribution.

“

Over this month of Elul, and for months and years to come, my focus is to build and strengthen relationships with this community.”

The message of the meeting and the meal was clear: WHC is a place of relationships. It is a place where all voices are heard. I was sold.

Six months after that initial welcome, relationships dwell even more on my mind. We will soon welcome the Hebrew month of Elul. Just as my initial foray into this community revealed its value on relationships, so, too, does the month of Elul. The Hebrew letters of the name Elul — aleph, lamed, vav, lamed — are an acronym for one of Judaism’s most famous lines of biblical poetry: ani l’dodi v’dodi li, “I am

Over this month of Elul, and for months and years to come, my focus is to build and strengthen relationships with this community. May Elul remind each of us to do that holy work within our own personal relationships as well. Reach out to a lost friend. Ask family members a little more about their day. Locate and cultivate the holiness of these relationships.

Let us create a community in which, when we enter Rosh Hashanah at the end of Elul, we all can say, “Ani l’dodi v’dodi li,” and mean it for the many important people in our lives.

WHC Journal – August 2018 | Page 3

President’s Column Nell Shapiro

I

hope each of you is enjoying a relaxing and restorative summer! I am honored, humbled, and delighted to begin my term as President of Washington Hebrew Congregation — a truly amazing institution that means so much to my family and me.

As many of you know, I was not raised Jewish but rather was converted by Rabbi Lustig 23 years ago when I married my husband, Ed, and we joined WHC. In many ways, however, my “Jewish Journey” truly began in the Episcopal church in which I was raised. Like many who convert or choose to create a Jewish home when they themselves are not Jewish, I did not choose Judaism because my Christian faith wasn’t meaningful to me; but precisely because religion and faith were such formative parts of my life. Along with my entire family, I was active in our church – volunteering in the Sunday school classrooms (like our Madrichim), singing in the choir (very badly, and therefore softly), and serving as an acolyte and as a leader of my youth group.

“

President@whctemple.org 202-895-6301

Just as importantly, I found that Judaism – like my original faith — emphasizes that my relationship with God is highly personal and intellectual, requiring me to evaluate the range of religious practices and beliefs and determine which elements are meaningful to me. The understanding that there is no single, dogmatic or “correct” way to worship is central to Reform Judaism, and it is one of its most important tenets to me.

Although I know it is not the same for everyone who confronts this issue, my decision to convert was a relatively easy one, and I discovered an intellectual and spiritual home in Reform Judaism. More significantly, Ed and I found a true emotional home for our Jewish family here at Washington Hebrew.

So many meaningful aspects of my life have their roots here, from the relationship I forged with Rabbi Lustig during my conversion, to the gratifying social action work involved in chairing the Carrie Simon House and Mitzvah Day, to my adult Bat Mitzvah with the incomparable Gerdy Trachtman.

Not to mention learning the childhood Shabbat songs at the ECC and watching my children grow into their own Jewish identities. In all these things and at every stage, I have felt at home and cared for by this wonderful community. It goes without saying — but I want to make it clear — that I have never felt that my status as a “Jew

by Choice” was an obstacle in any way to my Jewish life here at WHC.

One of my priorities is to help everyone who comes to WHC feel the same warm welcome I did and have the same easy path to finding their place here.”

When I met Ed and began to explore the concept of becoming a Reform Jew and creating a Jewish home together, I found the fundamental values that I had learned from my Episcopalian upbringing were reflected in Reform Judaism. The first is a belief in the central importance of organized religion and its longstanding traditions. I am moved by the ancient customs and traditional language that have inspired and comforted humans for thousands of years. I find the prayers, rituals, and teachings based on biblical texts to be relevant to our lives today, and their long history gives them added resonance to me. And, I believe that praying together in a sacred community brings a depth and purpose to worship that I do not find in individual spiritual pursuits.

So that is my story — I came here as a stranger, and you welcomed me and showed me how to get involved and find my place. Not surprisingly, one of my priorities is to help everyone who comes to WHC feel the same warm welcome I did and have the same easy path to finding their place here. I know that is a value that many of you share.

Continued on page 13.

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Rabbi’s Reflection Rabbi M. Bruce Lustig

T

here is a bakery in Me’a She’arim, one of Jerusalem’s most Orthodox neighborhoods, that bakes nearly all the challah for the entire State of Israel. The bakery is abuzz at 10:30 pm on the Thursday night we visit. As we gather, the smell overwhelms us – it smells like Shabbat! There is purpose and diligence to the work as employees load tray after tray of challah. Some have poppy seeds; some, sesame; some, slick with a wash of egg. Some are large; some are small. On their soft insides, some are brown from whole wheat flour, some are white as angel’s wings, and some are soft and yellow — all standing in contrast to the golden-brown crust where the curves of their braided tops bulge muscularly as if to announce pride in the part they play in honoring God’s gift of Shabbat.

This experience could be seen as just a moment of culinary delight on a summer vacation, but it was something more. We were on a journey, into the heart of our Jewish identity. We were on a pilgrimage to discover what Israel could teach us about being Jewish through her history, splendor, beauty, bruises, ugly bumps, contradictions, and challenges.

I brought our congregational summer trip participants to this bakery — which I used to visit when I was a high school, college, and graduate student — so they could see the magic that happens throughout the night as they bake challah for a nation. I bought eight challot (the plural of “challah”), and in my hand, I held a bag with eight sticks of butter and the large bread knife I had purchased that very afternoon.

We were hosted by a Druze family and learned of their loyalty to the state of Israel and the freedom of religion they enjoy there.

We visited the Sir Charles Clore Jewish-Arab Community Center, an independent, voluntarily funded, non-political organization. Its founder, Mohammed Fahili, has spoken at WHC on Yom Kippur about how the center’s programs build bridges between and provide opportunities for Israel’s poorest Jewish and Muslim families. We stood at an outpost on Israel’s most northern border and saw a Hezbollah flag flying within spitting distance while we listened to a kibbutznik — an American expatriate — whose views were more hawkish than the right of the right. Just a day later, we heard Anat Hoffman speak about the struggles of Israeli Reform and Liberal Jews for equal, civil, and religious rights and the lack of marriage equality for the non-Orthodox. We visited Christian, Muslim, and Jewish holy sites freely and in total harmony.

“

Over 10 days, we would learn through experience that Israel is much like the challah in the bakery: varied and diverse in its form, size, and content; yet, it is all challah.

So, too, is Israel’s society diverse and rich — each person has their history, ideology, religious conviction or lack thereof, and political view; yet, each is an Israeli.

We were on a pilgrimage to discover what Israel could teach us about being Jewish through her history, splendor, beauty, bruises, ugly bumps, contradictions, and challenges. ”

Outside, on the sidewalk as we smelled Shabbat emanating from the bakery, I held the hot challah in my hands and cut each open on its flat-bottomed side. Carefully, I separated the halves just enough to slide a full stick of butter into the center of each loaf. The butter dissipated and became one with the challah, sweetening the bread just as the moment sweetened the very idea of a Shabbat celebrated standing outside a bakery in Jerusalem. And we tasted the sweetness of Shabbat as we devoured the warm, buttery challah on the streets of Jerusalem.

Continued on page 17.

WHC Journal – August 2018 | Page 5

WHC Journal

WHC’s Summer in Israel

Here are a few moments captured during this summer’s congregational trip to Israel with Rabbi Lustig.

Read more about the incredible journey this group had in Rabbi Lustig’s column on page 5!

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Worship

Selichot Concert & Service Begin the Spiritual Odyssey of the High Holy Days with Music, Worship, and Community

E

lul, the Hebrew month of reflection before the High Holy Days, culminates with Selichot, when we gather and recite prayers of penitence as a community. The Selichot liturgy contains some of the finest Jewish religious poetry ever composed, and our moving, inspiring candlelit service urges us to reflect on the year that is ending. With strains of the High Holy Day melodies, our rabbis, and the beautiful voices of Cantors Manevich and Bortnick to guide us, we will utter our first confession of the season, as well as Sh’ma Koleynu, asking God to hear our voices.

Please join us at Temple to celebrate Selichot on Saturday, September 1. The evening begins at 6:15 pm with an opening reception that features heavy hors d’oeuvres, followed at 7:00 pm by a concert performed by the National Chamber Ensemble, our candlelit Selichot service at 8:00 pm, and finally, an elegant white-glove dessert reception. It is certain to be soul-stirring evening that will touch all of the senses.

Selichot Concert Opens Pollin Music Series

We have invited the National Chamber Ensemble (NCE) to open our 2018-2019 Irene & Abe Pollin Music Program Initiative with an exciting program of great works in the classical and jazz genres. The Ensemble has redefined the meaning of “chamber music” by fusing traditional classical

masterpieces with spirituals, jazz, guitar, klezmer, opera, and more. From classical to contemporary compositions, their internationally-acclaimed musicians provide outstanding performances of chamber music in an intimate setting.

Called “delightful” by The Washington Post and “one of the gems of the entire Metro area” by DC Metro Theatre Arts, the Ensemble shares fascinating, short anecdotes about the composers and music, further drawing the audience into the performance. It’s a concert that offers the connoisseur as well as the first-time concertgoer an exciting musical experience.

For this performance, NCE artistic director and violinist Leonid Sushansky will be joined by piano virtuoso Carlos Cesar Rodriguez, Ephriam Wolfolk Jr. on double bass, and Leland Nakamura on drums. They will perform classical masterpieces for violin and piano as well as the extraordinary “Suite for Violin and Jazz Piano” by popular French composer Claude Bolling.

Kindly RSVP

There is no charge for any part of this evening, but to help us plan, we do ask that you register at whctemple.org/Selichot.

WHC Journal – August 2018 | Page 7

High Holy Days

H igh Holy Days Tickets and Reminders

Milestones and Mitzvot

Last month, we sent our pre-High Holy Day mailing to our members. It included the Guide to High Holy Day Services and Tickets and personalized Ticket Request and Memorial Book forms. High Holy Day tickets are free for WHC members and their children under the age of 30, provided the member’s Temple account is in good financial standing as of June 30, 2018. If you have questions about your membership status, please contact Lindsay Feldman, lfeldman@whctemple.org or 202-895-6321, and if you have questions about an unpaid balance on your Temple account, please contact Petra Tchouante, ptchouante@whctemple.org or 202-895-6318. We ask that you please complete and return to Temple your Memorial Book form by Wednesday, August 15 and your Ticket Request form by Monday, August 20. The High Holy Day Seating Office welcomes your questions, but they are unable to process ticket requests over the phone or via email. Later this summer, we will be mailing High Holy Day tickets and publishing news of special Washington Hebrew Congregation programming, features, and events for the fall and beyond. We look forward to sharing the beauty and joy of the High Holy Days with you.

Welcoming Babies and Grandchildren

Out-of-Town Guests?

You may request tickets for visiting friends or family who belong to a congregation out of our area. To complete the request, your guests must also have their synagogue send a Reciprocal Seating Request form to the WHC Seating Office.

Going Away for the High Holy Days?

WHC members in good standing who will be away for one or both of the High Holy Days and plan to attend services at another Reform congregation may request a Reciprocal Seating form from the WHC Seating Office: seating@whctemple.org or 202-895-6319.

Not Using Your Tickets This Year?

If you find that you will not be using tickets you requested for any High Holy Day service, please return them to Temple so we can accommodate everyone’s needs and preferences in the most timely manner.

Page 8 | WHC Journal – August 2018

We have a wonderful tradition on Rosh Hashanah of reading the names of the babies and children who have come into the lives of our Temple families since Rosh Hashanah 2017. If you welcomed a child or grandchild this past year and would like to include them in this reading, please contact Layne Weiss, lweiss@whctemple.org or 202-895-6307, with the child’s name and date of birth.

Celebrating 83rd Birthdays

Our religion gives us the opportunity to honor a long life with the beautiful custom of celebrating a second (or first!) Bar or Bat Mitzvah when a person turns 83. If you celebrated or will celebrate your birthday between last Yom Kippur (9/30/17) and this Yom Kippur (9/18/18), we invite you to join us on the bimah to read the Torah blessings during the morning Congregational Service on Yom Kippur. To participate in this aliyah, please contact Layne Weiss, 202-895-6307.

Ushering at High Holy Day Services

High Holy Day ushers are a welcoming presence at our doors and in our worship spaces. If you would like to serve as an usher at any of our services, please contact Nancy Misler, 202-895-6342.

High Holy Days

H igh Holy Days Experience a New Prayer Book on Erev Rosh Hashanah The High Holy Days are an important time of community, comfort, challenge, and change.

Each year at Washington Hebrew Congregation, we devote a great deal of thought and energy to making sure that the High Holy Days are spiritually moving. In keeping with that effort to create the most meaningful worship experience, we are pleased to share that those worshiping at our 6:00 pm Erev Rosh Hashanah service at Temple will be provided with the Reform Movement’s new machzor (High Holy Day prayer book) for this service.

Similar in style and layout to Mishkan T’filah, our Shabbat prayer book, Mishkan HaNefesh offers a balance of tradition and innovation that reflects our 21st-century sensibilities and perspectives. We will continue to use Gates of Repentance on Rosh Hashanah day, Kol Nidre, and Yom Kippur day. Our Rosh Hashanah Under the Stars service and our family services will also continue their use of visual tefilah, with projecting the services on large screens, enabling a heads-up, hands-free experience.

We hope that whichever service you choose to attend, your experience is meaningful, inspiring, and provides the spiritual renewal you seek.

Stay After the Final Shofar Sounds for a Delicious Break-Fast Meal Break the Fast With WHC

Your stomach is beyond grumbling, and you are both drained and energized by the spiritual odyssey you have just completed. Why spend the extra time and energy driving home after Neilah? Leave the break-fast preparations to us, sit down, and sink your teeth into the most delicious bagel you have ever tasted. We’ll even take you back to off-site parking when you are finished.

Your bagel awaits! The cost is $24 for adults and is free for children 10 and under. Your family and friends are welcome. Register online at whctemple.org/HighHolyDays. For more information, contact Beth Donaldson, bdonaldson@whctemple.org or 202-895-6309. This event is organized by the EmptyNesters.

For More Information …

You can learn more about the Days of Awe at WHC on the High Holy Day section of our website, whctemple.org/HighHolyDays. Our September issue of the WHC Journal will also include details about this year’s Yom Kippur Study Sessions, parking reminders, blessings you can recite at home, and more.

WHC Journal – August 2018 | Page 9

WHC Journal

Envision Our Future

175 And the old shall dream dreams, and the youth shall see visions, And our hopes shall rise up to the sky.

We must live for today; we must build for tomorrow.

— Debbie Friedman, “And the Youth Shall See Visions”

Summary of Findings From Our Visioning Effort

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e are pleased to present a summary of the results of the two-year effort to explore congregants’ views of the ideal future of WHC. In March 2016, we began a Visioning Effort that has led to considerable insights for Temple leadership to consider in planning for the future of the Temple, and we want to thank everyone who participated and shared their thoughts during this invaluable process.

The Visioning Effort began with two stand-alone, three-hour Visioning sessions at Temple, conducted by Zingerman’s Institute Leadership and attended by approximately 100 congregants over a weekend in March 2016.

Participants found that these sessions generated creative and interesting ideas about the potential future of many aspects of Temple life and were able to share their ideas with each other.

To continue the process, the Board of Directors formed a Visioning Task Force (VTF), led by Board members Nell Shapiro and Lew Wiener, along with Bobby Lipnick, and comprised of interested congregants who had participated in one of the March weekend sessions with Zingerman’s.

The VTF devised a method to inspire congregants to think broadly and creatively about their vision for Washington Hebrew Congregation in 10 years’ time. At these new sessions, participants were asked to imagine their ideal Temple in the future with no budgetary or other practical Page 10 | WHC Journal – August 2018

constraints – What would WHC look like, sound like, feel like if they could create it exactly as they wanted? The VTF had no preconceived notion of what the ultimate vision would be and encouraged participants to be as creative as they wanted to be in describing their vision for WHC. One of the goals of the VTF was to engage as many people as possible from all areas of the Congregation. The effort was promoted in the Journal and Life@WHC through school and auxiliary newsletters, and in postcards and other signage at Temple and JBSC, inviting everyone to attend a Visioning session or reach out to the VTF chairs to express their views. Ultimately, the VTF held a total of eight in-person sessions, including some specifically targeted to ECC parents, 2239 members, and post-B’nei Mitzvah teens, and created an online questionnaire that nearly 125 people completed. In all, a diverse group of over 500 congregants thought about, wrote down, and then shared the values that mattered most to them when they imagined their future at WHC. The discussions in the Visioning Sessions were wideranging and varied, but certain overarching themes were repeated throughout the process and are summarized here.

Many of the important concepts and aspirations identified on the following pages reinforced our current priorities while giving Temple staff, clergy, and lay leaders invaluable help to guide their actions in the future.

WHC Journal

Envision Our Future

175 Envision Our Future

175 Jewish Meaning and Purpose Congregants look to Washington Hebrew Congregation to be a source of Jewish meaning, purpose, and spirituality in their lives, and they connect with that higher purpose in a variety of ways.

Inspiring Worship: Worship is at the center of what we do at WHC and critically important to congregants of all ages and backgrounds. Congregants imagine worship that is inspiring, vibrant, interactive, and engaging. They envision services at which large numbers of multi-generational congregants “sing their guts out” and participate enthusiastically. They are open to being challenged and educated by the clergy on current and complex issues that are relevant to Reform Jews.

Robust Philanthropy and Social Action: Congregants imagine WHC as a center of Jewish philanthropy and giving that is deeply involved in social issues and actions informed by our shared Jewish values. Congregants see their clergy as leaders in the D.C. community and enjoy being involved and having an impact beyond the walls of the Temple.

Jewish Lifelong Learning: Congregants envision WHC as a center of progressive Jewish thought with educational programming that teaches and challenges its members.

Congregants are eager to address current, complex issues related to Jewish life and for WHC to be a model for civil discourse surrounding divisive subjects.

Flexibility and Experimentation: Congregants imagine WHC as a place that accommodates a wide variety of worship styles, encourages flexibility and experimentation in worship and programming, and invests in creative ways to reach out to and connect with unaffiliated Jews.

Connection and Community Throughout the Visioning Effort, participants emphasized the central importance of personal connections in a fulfilling Temple life. Washington Hebrew is a large and diverse institution in which it can sometimes be a challenge to find one’s place. Often, what drew people to WHC and kept them active was a close connection with clergy or a small group of other congregants, and participants imagined an ideal Temple in which it was easy to create, sustain, and deepen those personal connections.

Close Connections Between Clergy and Congregants: Congregants imagine feeling a true sense of belonging at WHC, and they love the wonderful feeling that comes when clergy and leaders “know” them. They want to be able to easily connect with family and friends and meet new people at Temple events. Congregants imagine seamless and guided transitions between every life stage at Temple.

All constituencies — singles, couples, and families; both young and old — want to be able to easily find their path, their peers, and their place at Temple.

Welcoming and Inclusive: Congregants want WHC to be a place that easily integrates new members into the community and is welcoming and inclusive to all with few or no barriers to membership and participation. Congregants want to recognize and celebrate the diversity of the Temple community.

Active and Appealing Atmosphere: Congregants emphasized the importance of creating attractive, lively, and functional physical spaces both inside and outside of both buildings.

It should inspire people to make WHC part of their lives 365 days a year, reflect the energy of the Congregation, and promote the values of gathering, interacting, and connecting with others at Temple.

Meaningful Partnerships: Congregants imagine WHC playing its proper, prominent role in the Reform Jewish community nationally, in its neighborhoods and the broader D.C. community, and in connection with Israel. Congregants imagine working with and being connected to other synagogues, religious institutions, and local and national organizations to enhance our experience and broaden our impact.

Continued on page 12.

WHC Journal – August 2018 | Page 11

WHC Journal

Summary of Findings From Our Visioning Effort (continued from page 11)

Envision Our Future

175 Communications and Technology Congregants understand that technology and communication strategies are changing rapidly, and WHC needs to remain current to meet the expectations of its members and to take advantage of the benefits technology can provide.

Congregants envision up-to-date, easy-to-use technology and communications tools that make them aware of all that is taking place at Temple, allow them to easily take advantage of what Temple has to offer, and help them connect to clergy and other members.

Technology to Navigate and Inform: Congregants have a number of ideas as to how technology could help them navigate the world of WHC and be more informed about the aspects of Temple life that are of most interest to them.

These include increased use of targeted messaging, the ability to sync their devices to WHC, “apps” that could enhance the flow of information, and other strategies .

Technology to Communicate and Connect: Congregants envision technologies that make it easier for them to connect to and communicate with each other and Temple through online resources, directories, and virtual community groups.

They want to enhance their Jewish learning through online databases of Jewish content and increased use of streaming technology for WHC programs. And they want to expand WHC’s ability to communicate its offerings to those outside of our community through a broader presence on a variety of social media platforms.

“And the old shall dream dreams, and the youth shall see visions, … ” “And our hopes shall rise up to the sky. …”

Envision Our Future

175 Next Steps Planning for the future is an on-going and constant process for the clergy, staff, and Board of Directors at Washington Hebrew Congregation. Congregant feedback and input during the Visioning effort have helped to identify themes and areas that are most important to congregants and have given leadership many effective ideas as to how to devote their energies. Throughout the process, we were moved by the dedication and devotion of congregants and their willingness to dream and help us go from strength to strength, l’dor v’dor, from generation to generation.

If you would like to learn more about the Visioning Effort or have questions, please feel free to contact Lindsay Feldman, lfeldman@whctemple.org or Nell Shapiro, president@whctemple.org.

“We must live for today; we must build for tomorrow.”

— Debbie Friedman “And the Youth Shall See Visions” Page 12 | WHC Journal – August 2018

Lifelong Learning

The Path to Wise Aging

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HC’s Wise Aging program brings individuals together in small groups to reflect and share opportunities for growth and new ways of seeing and understanding life’s stages.

Beginning its fourth year, Wise Aging has engaged participants from 63 to over 90 years of age. Chronological age is irrelevant, as each person comes with different life experiences, geographic origin, and emotional benchmarks.

Many face new challenges — ones that may bring change in work or retirement, in how younger people view them, and in social and family relationships. These are addressed through informal discussions led by trained facilitators and backed by Wise Aging, a book by Rabbi Rachel Cowan and Dr. Linda Thal. The discussions are not therapy; they focus on the current and prospective challenges and opportunities we face. Individualism stays strong during the sessions and commonalities emerge.

One participant noted, “You let down your guard, open your mind, and find new paths to enrich yourself socially and psychologically. Friendships develop from social and psychological openness.”

Another said, “The environment is such that people are open to talking about their experiences, which enhances self-reflection and self-perception.”

Although most of the issues discussed in Wise Aging are applicable to all ages, the Wise Aging sessions tailor these topics to older age groups — older in age but not in spirit.

The sessions instill a personal awareness and an enthusiasm

to explore current realities and what lies ahead in our daily lives. Jewish values plus Jewish and secular spiritual teachings enhance the sessions.

Wise Aging groups meet monthly, and new sessions will begin this fall. Registration will open soon. For further information, please contact Nancy Misler, nmisler@whctemple.org or 202-895-6342.

President’s Column (continued from page 4) I learned a lot about the values our congregants hold dear over the past 24 months as I co-chaired WHC’s Visioning/ Listening Effort, where we invited groups of interested congregants to share what they wanted WHC to look and feel like in 10 years. Certain values came up nearly every time, including that we want to continue to see ourselves as a community that is open and welcoming to all who are interested in Jewish life no matter their background or situation.

As one participant explained, “I want my Temple to be so warm and welcoming that I can’t wait to tell my friends about it.” I feel the same.

Several other important themes emerged from the Visioning Effort, and you can see a detailed summary of these shared aspirations and values on page 10 of this Journal. Throughout the two-year process, I was moved by the dedication to this congregation expressed by the participants and their genuine desire to make Washington Hebrew the best that it can be in the years and decades to come. The Visioning Effort reinforced many of our existing priorities while giving Continued on page 22.

WHC Journal – August 2018 | Page 13

In August …

WHC Programs & Events Featured Programs Grand Slam Sunday Jewish Community Day at Nationals Park Sunday, August 19 in Washington, DC Gates Open at 11:30 am; First Pitch at 1:35pm

LEONARD BERNSTEIN AT LEONARD BERNSTEIN AT100 100 Day Trip to the National Museum of

Day Trip To NationalJewish Museum of American Jewish History American History in Philadelphia

THURSDAY AUGUST 23

Come to this annual, end-of-summer celebration sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington. When the Washington Nationals take on the Miami Marlins, more than 1,500 Jewish community members will come out to the ballgame to celebrate our city’s love of baseball, the Nationals, and the Jewish community. Your ticket gets you access into the ballpark two hours before game time to enjoy Signature Caterers’ Tasting Table, family-friendly activities, games and giveaways. Plus, you’ll receive a free, limited edition Nationals hat when you buy your tickets through Federation.

Join Ema and Cantor Manevich for a day trip to Philadelphia to see “Leonard Bernstein: The Power of Music” exhibit.

Trip includes round-trip transportation, admission to the museum, and a private tour of the exhibit.

Bus Departs Temple: 8:30 am JBSC: 9:00 am

Registration required ($): shalomdc.org/grandslam Lauren Kessler: lauren.kessler@shalomdc.org, 301-230-7292

COST: $65

For more information, contact Beth at bdonaldson@whctemple.org, 202-895-6309

Private Tour – “Leonard Bernstein: The Power of Music” A Day Trip to Philadelphia Thursday, August 23 in Philadelphia, PA

Join Cantor Mikhail and Ema Manevich for a day trip to the National Museum of American Jewish History for a private, docent-led tour of the first large-scale museum exhibit to illustrate Leonard Bernstein’s life, Jewish identity, and social activism. You may be familiar with many of Bernstein’s works, notably West Side Story, but not necessarily with how he responded to the political and social crises of his day. Registration fee includes luxury coach transportation with departures from both JBSC and Temple, entrance to the museum, and docent fee. We will stop for lunch before the tour at Reading Terminal Market.

Registration required ($): whctemple.org/Bernstein Beth Donaldson: bdonaldson@whctemple.org, 202-895-6309

REGISTER NOW

REGISTERwhctemple.org/bernstein NOW: whctemple.org/Bernstein

Featured Programs Celebrate Selichot With WHC Concert Opens 2018-2019 Pollin Music Series Saturday, September 1 at Temple 6:15 pm – Heavy Hors d’Oeuvres Reception 7:00 pm – National Chamber Ensemble Concert 8:00 pm – Selichot Service 8:45 pm – White-Glove Dessert Reception

This year’s Selichot concert, which opens the 2018-2019 Irene & Abe Pollin Music Program Initiative, presents the National Chamber Ensemble with an exciting concert of great works in the classical and jazz genres. The Ensemble has redefined the meaning of “chamber music” by incorporating spirituals, jazz, guitar, klezmer, opera, and more with traditional classical masterpieces. The liturgy of the Selichot service that follows contains some of the finest Jewish religious poetry ever composed, and our moving, inspiring candlelit service urges us to reflect on the year that is ending.

Registration preferred (free): whctemple.org/Selichot Beth Donaldson: bdonaldson@whctemple.org, 202-895-6309

Shabbat Under the Erev Labor Day Weekend Stars

Labor on the Bimah Friday, 8/31, 6pm at Temple Stay for dinner! $12/person or $30/family Register: whctemple.org/SUTS Page 14 | WHC Journal – August 2018

Worship

Shabbat Under the Stars

A Family-Friendly Shabbat Service for All Generations Friday, August 10, 6:00 pm at JBSC

Our outdoor summertime Shabbat service series continues!

Join us for our outdoor evening services, held once a month at each location from June through August. In the event of inclement weather, these services will be moved indoors.

When Shabbat Under the Stars is at JBSC, our regular 6:00 pm Shabbat service will still be held at Temple. whctemple.org/SUTS Richard Gordon: rgordon@whctemple.org, 202-895-6337

Continued on page 20.

6

13

12

Monday

5

Page 15 | WHC Journal – August 2018

27

26

CC E-T E ay D First l (M) hoo of Sc

20

19

10:00am WHC Hunger Project (B) 11:30am Boomers at Nationals Park (OUT) 1:30pm “Grand Slam Sunday” – Jewish Community Day at Nationals Park (OUT)

5:30pm 2239 BBQ (M)

Sunday

Tuesday

AUGUST 2018

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21

14

7

8

1

29

22

15

7:30pm Community Issues/ Social Action Meeting (M)

Wednesday

17

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M: Temple

5:30pm Lay Led Service (M) 6:00pm Shabbat Under the Stars “Labor on the Bimah” (M)

Services:

31

10:30am Women of WHC Mah Jongg (B) 7:00pm Shabbat Under the Stars Dinner (M)

6:00pm Shabbat Service (M) 6:15pm 2239’s Metro Minyan (OUT)

Services:

10:30am Women of WHC Mah Jongg (B)

6:00pm Shabbat Service (M)

Services:

10:30am Women of WHC Mah Jongg (B)

3

10

6:00pm Shabbat Service (M) 6:00pm Shabbat Under the Stars (B)

Services:

10:30am Women of WHC Mah Jongg (B)

6:00pm Shabbat Service (M)

Services:

10:30am Women of WHC Mah Jongg (B)

Friday

B: Julia Bindeman Suburban Center

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23

16

9

2

Day Trip to Philadelphia With the Maneviches to See Leonard Bernstein Exhibit

Thursday

4

11

25

OUT: Not at a WHC location

9:00am Early Torah (M) 10:30am Shabbat Service (M) 5:30pm Afternoon Service and Havdalah (M) Bar Mitzvah of Bennett Richman

Services:

10:00am Couples Club Shabbat Hike & Picnic (OUT)

9:00am Early Torah (M) 10:30am Shabbat Service (M)

Services:

18

9:00am Early Torah (M) 10:30am Shabbat Service (M) Bat Mitzvah of Shoshanah Kriesberg

Services:

9:00am 2239 Tikkun Olam Project (OUT)

9:00am Early Torah (M) 10:30am Shabbat Service (M)

Services:

Saturday

Av–ELUL 5778

Mazel Tov to WHC’s August B'nei Mitzvah Shoshanah Katelyn Kahn Kriesberg August 11, Morning Shoshanah is a rising eighth-grade student at Herbert Hoover Middle School. She is the daughter of Martha L. Kahn & Simeon M. Kriesberg, the sister of Micah, and the granddaughter of the late Myra G. & Edwin L. Kahn and the late Harriet M. & Martin Kriesberg.

Bennett Adan Richman August 25, Havdalah Bennett is a rising seventh-grade student at the Bullis School. He is the son of Susan & Eric Richman, the brother of Blake and Margaux, and the grandson of Barbara & the late Samuel Tisherman and Rochelle & the late Marvin Richman.

Congratulations to …

Life Cycle

Mike Aguilar, WHC’s facilities manager at the Julia Bindeman Suburban Center, on his engagement to Riccy Martinez.

Lisa & Richard Garr, on the birth of their granddaughter, Clara Mae McDowell; and to Clara’s parents, Elizabeth Garr McDowell & Bill McDowell.

Ilene West Gordon and Thomas Gordon, on the engagement of their son, Andrew Lee Gordon to Nora Lee Bloom. Andrew is the grandson of Phyllis & Ron West and Barbara “Bobby” & the late Herb Gordon; Nora is the daughter of Jennifer Taub & Steven Bloom.

Rachel Kanter, on the birth and naming of her son, Isaac Martin Kanter (Yitzhak).

Carol & Benson Klein, on the birth of their grandson, Jonah Victor Klein Derby; and to Jonah’s parents, Sarah Klein & Jonathan Derby.

Nina Kraut, on the marriage of her son, Nicholas Kraut, to Alexis Olson. Alexis is the daughter of Claudia Bradshaw and Kevin Olson & Dr. Susan Hutchinson.

Judy & Robert Nath, on the engagement of their daughter, Cheryl Nath, to Travis Rogan. Travis is the son of Cindy & John Rogan.

Tracy & Bruce Ochsman, on the engagement of their daughter, Paris Magaziner, to Benjamin Blumenthal, the son of Linda & Mark Blumenthal. Paris is the granddaughter of Bernie & the late Ciss Kolker.

Ellen Share, WHC’s librarian, who was elected Vice President, Synagogue, School, and Center Division of the Association of Jewish Libraries for the 2018-2020 term. Ellen presented a paper at the Association’s 53rd annual conference in June titled, “Their Love of Children: Ezra Jack Keats, H.A. & Margaret Rey, and Maurice Bernard Sendak.”

Rabbis Erin Glazer & Joseph Skloot, on the birth and naming of their son, Solomon Nissam (Solomon Nissam); and to Solomon’s big sister, Maya.

Janine & Joshua Waxman, on the birth of their son, Davey Jay Waxman; and to Davey’s big sister, Ginger.

Page 16 | WHC Journal – August 2018

Our Sincerest Condolences …

Life Cycle

Sandra Arky, wife of Norman Arky; mother of Lauren Greilsamer and Jennifer Phillips.

Daniel Blatt, father of Jill Schwartz (Glenn) and Bonnie Massarik (David).

Ron Howard Dekelbaum, son of Sarah & Norman Dekelbaum; father of Alex and Jordan Dekelbaum; brother of Leon Dekelbaum, Michael Dekelbaum, and the late Andrew Dekelbaum.

Wayne Edisis, husband of Adrienne Edisis; father of Nathaniel Edisis and Aaron Edisis.

Jane Josephs, mother of Abby Donnelly (Jack) and Jessica Josephs.

Herman H. Kaplan, father of Jan Fischer (Robert) and Deeny Lorber (Ken).

Selma “Ciss” Kolker, wife of Bernie Kolker; mother of Tracy Kolker Ochsman (Bruce), Gary Kolker (Nancy), Jeff Kolker (Pamela), and the late Steve Kolker.

Joan Levine, mother of Hank Levine (Barbara).

Joseph Levine, husband of Kit Levine; father of J.J. Levine, Gary Levine, and Adam Levine (Cynthia); brother-in-law of Sylvan Herman.

Dr. Laurence Miller, husband of Leslie Miller; father of Ken Miller, and Scott Miller.

Dr. Martin L. Okun, husband of Tracee Okun; father of Jared Okun (Jennifer) and Alyson Small (Eric); brother of Mary Gorden.

Jack Pensyl, husband of Dottie Pensyl and former caretaker of WHC’s Memorial Park and the Julia Bindeman Suburban Center.

Neil Sherman, husband of Bonnie Sherman; father of Robert Sherman (Robin), Andrew Sherman (Russell Lopez), and Nancy LaBorwit.

Morton Spivack, M.D., husband of Carol Spivack, father of Laura Siegel (Gary), Mark Spivack (Laura), and Julie Spivack.

Sharon Weidberg, wife of Bert Weidberg; mother of Lynn Morgan (Randy), Elizabeth Maciag (Michael), and Suzanne Klein (Devon).

Steven Winkelman, husband of Anne Winkelman; father of Susan Hock (Alan), Nancy Winkelman, John Winkelman, and Michael Winkelman (Donna); brother of Ann Brown (Don).

… may their memory be a blessing.

Rabbi Lustig’s Reflection (continued from page 5) The openness of these conversations, the diversity of opinions, and the mutual tolerance that exist in Israeli society do not get a voice in the world’s critical presentation of the modern State of Israel. But indelible on the hearts and minds of those who were on this journey with me is the spectrum of wonder that makes up Israel.

I stepped from our congregational trip into another modern miracle in Israel that gets no press in our polarized world – the Shalom Hartman Institute, where I have been privileged to study for the last three years. This summer, a pluralistic group of 170 rabbis from Reform, Conservative, Reconstructionist, and a variety of Orthodox movements have gathered from across the globe to study and learn from and with each other. Our teachers were a broad spectrum of brilliant and equally diverse scholars; our topic was “Derech Eretz: Civility and Ethical Behavior.” As we embraced ancient text and modern challenges, the Institute and the style of study stood in contrast to the polarized world that is today’s norm. What was clear was that the issues we face today are not new, and the civil bridge among diverse groups is not lost to us if we try.

When a moderator at a peace forum I attended in Abu Dhabi said, “What we need is diversity!” a female Muslim scholar corrected him, saying, “Diversity is … We don’t and can’t create diversity. … What is needed is inclusion.” Having the open mind and open heart to see diversity in all its glory and to seek to transform society from a siloed, homogenous state to a painter’s palate of ideology, political beliefs, and culture is to have the ability to see Israel in her wonder and beauty. It is to stand on the street outside a bakery in Jerusalem and taste both Shabbat and hope. As we prepare for the Holy Days, may we strive to grow such a heart and live up to the potential God gave us when God choose to create us in God’s image.

WHC Journal – August 2018 | Page 17

Contributions

We gratefully acknowledge the following contributions, received through June 30. To make a contribution to any of Washington Hebrew Congregation’s funds, please visit whctemple.org/donate.

H. Max & Jodie and Stephen Ammerman Interfaith Fund

Donor In Honor of: Andrew Ammerman Sidney Levine’s Birthday

Avideh & Ken’s Anniversary

Arnold Danziger’s Birthday

Eli Collin’s Birthday

Davida Berman’s Birthday

David Kohn’s Graduation Drs. Susan & Richard Ammerman’s Anniversary

Wedding of Craig Collin

Joel Berman’s Special Birthday

Miriam Comer’s Birthday

Amram Sunday Scholar Series Endowment Fund Donor Roberta Biegel

In Memory of: Leonard Biegel

Lillian & Alfred Bennett Fine Arts Endowment Fund

Donor In Honor of: Bobbi & Edward Schiff Charli Vogel’s Confirmation

Sophie Schiff’s Confirmation

William Barlia’s Confirmation Donor In Memory of: Bobbi & Edward Schiff Yetta Schiff

Meyer Schiff John Zeller Elaine Scher Zeller

Julia & Jack Bindeman Fund

Donor Stuart Bindeman

In Memory of: J.E. Bindeman

Cantorial & Concert Fund

Donor In Honor of: Jennifer & Lloyd Hyde Cantor Bortnick Ellie & Sam Moseman & Family Cantor Manevich Joan & Barry Rosenthal Cantor Manevich Jeanne & Marvin Spivak Cantor Manevich Sheri & Max Zweig Cantor Manevich Donor In Memory of: Linda & Steve Cohen Al Cohen

Ida Kass Susan & Alan Gold Stewart Gold Joyce Isaacson Shirlee Rivin Margaret R. Lawson Lisette B. Lawson Dr. & Mrs. Edward Mopsik Harry Mopsik Beverly Rosenblatt Dr. Aaron Deitz

Jerry Collins

Andrew Rosenblatt

EmptyNesters Fund

Donor Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Adoff Robert Biegel

In Memory of: Lillian B. Gottlieb Louis B. Sodsisky

Lois & Richard England Special Needs Endowment Fund

Donor Florence Allentuck

General Fund

In Memory of: Carl J. Kaufman

Donor In Honor of: Bryna & Fred Bell

Nancy & Everett Korman’s Anniversary Loretta Feldman

Lionel & Annette Pashkoff’s 50th Anniversary Pat & Larry Mann

Nancy & Everett Korman’s 50th Anniversary

Page 18 | WHC Journal – August 2018

General Fund

Donor In Honor of: Sandra Sadoff Sara Warren Jeanne & Marvin Spivak Nancy Misler

Dan Caplan Lora & Craig Treiber Landon Howard Smith Donor In Memory of: Jane Abrams Miriam Feldman Thomas A. Bensinger Samuel M. Bensinger

Jane Bensinger Marjorie & Harold Bingham Sara R. Levy Beverly & Bruce Birchman Anne Lebowitz

Robert Birchman James & Daphne Bloomberg Joseph Dzwonkowski Arthur S. Brecher Laura Brecher Margie & Barry Brower Albert Dobbs Carol & Robert Burman Freda White Barbara Caplan Stan Caplan Carl & Nancy Gewirz Fund Morris Gewirz Barry, Lyn, Brandon, Ben & Blake Chasen

Pryle Gibson Francis Chucker, M.D. Emilie K. Bush

Dr. George N. Chucker Kathy Cole Erich Paschkus Phyllis S. Cole Samuel Rubin

Adele Livingston Cole Larry & Barbara Dubit Ethel Dubit Irwin Edlavitch Hilda Edlavitch Jackie & Rob Fishman Jeanette Boas Joanne Orleans Martin Rubin Jeffrey Gibbs & Jody Katz Stanley Gibbs Betty Glassman Rose Kanfer

Robert Saks

Stanley Glassman Marilyn & Michael Glosserman Marshall Marc Glick Sandra Goldstein David Douglas Stephen W. Grafman Rabbi Milton L. Grafman Sandra Grant Ruth Schwartz Inez & Alan Grimaldi Jessica Smith Laurence & Susan Harris Helen Harris Gabriele & Gilbert Herer Lillian Baron Herer Odette Klein Herman Leopold Stern William Herman Phyllis Samuels Herman Allen H. Jacobson Gladys Jacobson Eileen M. Jacobson Abe Goldstein

Adeline Goldstein Ferne Jaffe Emanuel Jaffe

Alfred Jaffe Norton Katz & Jody Katz Laine R. Katz Barbara Kaufman Joseph Naiman Dr. & Mrs. S. Kalman Kolansky Julia Saltz Dr. Gregorio Koss Blanca Koss

Sara Adela Litmanovich Daniel Ladd Evelyn S. Jayson Alan & Gail Levowitz Anne Lebowitz Alan Levine Robert Levine Jane Lipton Cafritz Frederick Lipton Charles & Jeanette Miller Amy G. Miller Bryna & Irwin Monsein Harry Monsein Ellen & Jim Myerberg Jack Pressman Dr. N. James Myerberg Abby Gail Belkin Rabbis Michael & Susan Namath Norman Namath Thomas Nordlinger Bernard Nordlinger Ronald J. Orleans & Family Harry B. Orleans

Janis Brown Annette Pashkoff Bess Pashkoff Jane & Jerome Putnam Adelaide Berger

Selma T. Putnam

General Fund

Donor In Memory of: Michael Rappaport Sonia Rappaport Elisabeth Ross

Frances Beckanstin & Harry Beckanstin Mark, Lynne, Adam & Evan Schaffer Jennie Schaffer Joan & George Schonholtz Rose Weissblum Isadora Semsker Ralph Semsker John Shulman Dean Shulman Erna Silberstein Norman Silberstein Linda Singer Samuel Nineberg Dennis Speisman Howard Speisman Marilynn Squire David Zwerin Karen Ostrow Sempel Miriam B. Ostrow Dr. & Mrs. Mark Taff & Family Eunice Taff Albert H. Taub, M.D. Julia Greenberg Gerdy Trachtman Ilse Teichner

Ron Howard Dekelbaum Ruth & Simon Wagman Leah Wagman Mr. & Mrs. Robert Warsaw Nathan Alperstein Madeline Weiss Stephen Joel Weiss Kathy & Bob Wenger Edith K. Buxbaum Roslyn Wolf Mary Diamond

Leo & Elizabeth Goodman Public Issues Endowment Fund

Donor Joan Churchill

In Honor of: Eric Churchill’s Birthday Emma Goodman’s Birthday

Abraham & Freida Hochberg Cultural Fund

Donor In Honor of: Bryna & Fred Bell

Jane & Phil Hochberg’s 50th Anniversary

Hurston Library

Donor Dr. & Mrs. Samuel Stoleru

In Memory of: Aaron Rosenstadt

Rose E. Koenig Religious School Fund

Donor Kira Epstein Begal

In Honor of: Stephanie Tankel

Kol Rinah

Donor In Honor of: Carolyn & Herbert Koben Dr. Irwin & Pauline Kurtzack’s Special Birthdays Donor In Memory of: Dr. Anita O. Solomon Rashel Manevich

Arnold Ostrin

Marjorie & Bernard Levin

Harriet M. Kriesberg Fund for the Study of Torah

Donor Cheryl Bleiberg

In Memory of: Carl Bleiberg

William R. & Nora H. Lichtenberg Membership Endowment Fund Donor Phyllis Dreyfuss

In Memory of: Bess LaBorwit

Rabbi M. Bruce Lustig Scholarship Fund

Donor Linda Wertlieb

In Memory of: Morton Silverberg

Zena Mason Education Fund Donor Linda & Marshall Ackerman Froma Sandler

In Memory of: Rosella Ruttenberg Lisa Sandler Spaeth

Contributions Mitzvah Day

Donor In Honor of: Linda & Ron Recht

Isabel Namath’s High School Graduation

Eve Lustig’s High School Graduation Donor In Memory of: Betsy Grossman Shirley Harsfield Eileen & Ronnie Orleans & Family Sam Roth

Kamy Loren Nathanson Bar & Bat Mitzvah Kiddush Cup Endowment Fund

Donor In Memory of: Amy Bronrott Munaker & Alan Munaker Hy Bronrott Mona M. Wolf Robert O. Wolf

Albert & Scott Pelmoter Youth Scholarship Fund

Donor In Memory of: Eleanor Feigenbaum Your beloved son, Gary Stephanie & Andy Pelmoter Frank Orzolek Shirley Pelmoter Albert Pelmoter

Frank Orzolek

Sylvia & Saul Ritzenberg Humanitarian Fund

Donor Cheryl Bleiberg Cathy & Scot McCulloch Trisha & Jim Ritzenberg

In Memory of: Doris Bleiberg Janne Ritzenberg Piper Janne Ritzenberg Piper

Naomi & LeRoy Robins Medical Emergency Fund

Donor In Memory of: Joan Robins Barry Faden Marlene Faden & Robins-Faden Family Barry Faden Sonda & Dick Schoenfeld Samuel Friedlander

Harold “Buddy” & Shirley Robinson Memorial Education Scholarship Fund

Donor Brett Zupan

In Honor of: Adi Paliti & Sarah Bickart’s Marriage

Abe & Sylvia Shrinsky Creative Worship Program Fund Donor Faith & Jim Kirk

In Memory of: Sonne Babkes Abe I. Shrinsky

Carlynn & Larry Silverman Family Endowment for Jewish Life & Learning

Donor In Memory of: Lauren, Fred, Sam & David Sternburg

Burton Sternburg

Abram Simon Elementary School Camp Fund

Donor Emily Van Agtmael Joan Churchill Jennifer Dryer Jo-Ellen & Alan Fishman Karen & Brendan Herron Nancy & Everett Korman Barbara & David Marblestone Nell & Ed Shapiro Donor In Honor of: The Chase Family Paul Nass Jo-Ellen & Alan Fishman

Barbara Berman’s Special Birthday Layne Weiss Cantor Bortnick

Rabbi Shankman

Bar Mitzvah of Ryan Davis Jacqueline & Frank Zappala

Bat Mitzvah of Emma Schlosser

Abram Simon Elementary School Camp Fund

Donor In Memory of: Ellen-Sue & Neal Brown Gladys Angel William H. Davis Florence Davis

William H. Davis Deena Kaplan Eve Berliant Linda & Al Neuman

Bea Balis, Bernard Balis & Doris Ascher Hilary Rubin, Joey & Ricky Goldberg Simon S. Rubin Hilary Rubin Jean Ann Dunkelberger Thomas Stiyer Adele Bady

Julia Rosser

Beatrice & Eddy Smith

Myrtice Thomas

Rachel Freeman

Abram Simon Elementary School Fund Donor Riki & Michael Sheehan

Carrie Simon House

Donor Susan Rolnick

In Memory of: Carol Poster

In Memory of: Samuel Rolnick Robert Rolnick Arnold Lozowick

C. Haskell & Ruth Behrend Small Music Fund

Donor Sherry Sundick Donor Sherry Sundick

In Honor of: Bar Mitzvah of Jack Solovey In Memory of: Amy N. B. Goldstein

Tikkun Olam Values (TOV) Fund

Donor In Honor of: Nina & Rich Abelson Rabbi Lustig Donor In Memory of: Susan Adland

Marilyn Friend Adland & Marvin L. Adland Ginny Edlavitch Allen Schwartzman Nick & Jo-Anne Fleischer Emery Fleischer Deborah Graze Minnie Gordon Cathy Kwart Joseph J. Kahn Tina & Albert Small Jr. Hy Liber Carol & Marc Spiegel Alvin L. Newmyer Jr.

Rabbi Joseph Weinberg Young Leadership Community Service Fund Donor Moritz Cohen Jr.

Reneé Lipsic Loeb Marcia Weinberg

In Memory of: Esther S. Cohen Honey Cohen Louis Lipsic Elaine Schwartz

Worship & Music Fund

Donor In Honor of: Karen & Peter Maser Rabbi Shankman Richard Neugass Rabbi Lustig Jeanne & Marvin Spivak Rabbi Skloot Donor In Memory of: Phyllis Dreyfuss & Family Larry LaBorwit Marjory & Herbert Gross Jennie Wasserstrom Susan T. Edlavitch & Harvey Grossinger

Hannah Grossinger Marvin Korengold Morris Korengold Dr. Barbara Sonies & Dr. Harvey Kupferberg

Eleanor Cohn & Jean Kupferberg Bunnye Schofer Levey Meyer Schofer Annette & Lionel Pashkoff Charles Pincus Eleanor Rosenfeld Gertrude Talpalar

Samuel J. Rosenfeld

Mitchell Talpalar Jim & Mary Salander June K. Salander Elisabeth Posner Schouten Petrus G. Schouten

Young Professionals (2239) Fund Donor Ellie & Sam Moseman & Family Dianne & Michael Michnick

In Honor of: Rabbi Miller Rabbi Miller

Ivy Zola’s Help-a-Friend Fund

Donor In Memory of: Paula, Neal, Steven, Michael & Cheka Bobys

Lillian Kushner Shelley & Joe Chartoff Beatrice Nevin

Sally Chartoff

Shirley Harsfield Joan & Norman Smith Adele M. Orleans Mildred & Ellis April Family Samuel Kaminsky

al d Annu r 3 e Th

Rosh Hashanah Community Oneg

Reconnect, schmooze, and nosh your way around Edlavitch Hall as you get to know your Temple in a whole new way.

Monday, September 10 1045– 1130 am and 115– 215 pm

Representatives from our auxiliaries, youth department, schools, adult learning , and tikkun olam initiatives will be on hand to answer questions and share information.

WHC Journal – August 2018 | Page 19

In August …

WHC Programs & Events (continued from page 14) Worship

2239’s Metro Minyan

A Shabbat Experience for Adults in Their 20s and 30s Friday, August 24, 6:15 pm at First Congregational UCC

This monthly Shabbat experience for young professionals begins with “A Shot of Torah,” an opportunity to study the weekly Torah portion and dive into some serious (and not so serious) Jewish discussion. The guitar-led, come-as-you-are Shabbat service starts at 7:00 pm and is followed by dinner.

Registration required for dinner only ($): whctemple.org/2239 Valerie Bluestein: vbluestein@whctemple.org

“Labor on the Bimah” at Shabbat Under the Stars A Family-Friendly Shabbat Experience for All Generations Friday, August 31, 6:00 pm at Temple

Join us as we bid farewell to summer with this season’s final Shabbat Under the Stars service. At this erev Labor Day Weekend service, we are participating in “Labor on the Bimah,” a nation-wide Shabbat effort that focuses on the hardworking men and women for whom the American Dream may never become a reality. An optional family-style dinner will follow this service.

Registration required for dinner only ($): whctemple.org/SUTS Richard Gordon: rgordon@whctemple.org, 202-895-6337

Opportunities for Adults

2239 Volunteers at DC Central Kitchen

Saturday, August 11, 9:00 am in Washington, DC

Loosen up your fingers and join us as we help the DC Central Kitchen staff cut, chop, and peel thousands of pounds of food that will help them create more that 5,000 meals.

Registration required?: whctemple.org/2239 Valerie Bluestein: vbluestein@whctemple.org

Conversational Hebrew

Learn to speak Hebrew without learning the aleph bet!

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September

Page 20 | WHC Journal – August 2018

Learn More: whctemple.org/Hebrew

JOIN WASHINGTON HEBREW FOR THEATER J’s PRODUCTION OF:

The Pianist of Willesden Lane Based on the book The Children of Willesden Lane

by Mona Golabek and Lee Cohen

Date: Sunday, September 23 Time: 2:00 pm Location: The Kennedy Center Cost: $64 Register by Tuesday, August 21 This event is open to all WHC members in parnership with The Boomers and EmptyNesters

For more info visit: whctemple.org/theaterj

Opportunities for Adults

2239’s Annual Barbecue

Sunday, August 12, 5:30 pm at Temple

2239’s annual BBQ is back! Send off summer with delicious food, good beer, and the best company! Join 100+ Jewish 20’s and 30’s rain or shine for the BBQ of the season. We will be serving hamburgers, kosher hot dogs, veggie burgers, salad, and more! If you’re new to D.C. or know someone who is, the 2239 BBQ is the perfect way to meet people and have a great time.

Registration required ($): whctemple.org/2239 Valerie Bluestein: vbluestein@whctemple.org

Jewish Community Day at Nationals Park Organized by The Boomers Sunday, August 19, 11:30 am in Washington, DC

Root for the home team as the Nationals take on the Marlins for Jewish Community Day at Nationals Park on Sunday, August 19. The Boomers have a special section reserved for our members and guests. The day begins with a community program at 11:30 am, and first pitch is at 1:35 pm.

Registration required ($): whctemple.org/Boomers Beth Donaldson: bdonaldson@whctemple.org, 202-895-6309

In August …

WHC Programs & Events Opportunities for Adults

Couples Club Welcome Back Shabbat Hike and Picnic Saturday, August 25, 10:00 am in Washington, DC

It’s a Saturday morning to connect with your family, community, nature, and Judaism. Join us for a 1.5-mile, kid-friendly, stroller-friendly, shaded hike along the Klingle Valley Trail with Rabbi Eliana Fischel.

Registration preferred (free): whctemple.org/CouplesClub Marsha Humphries: mhumphires@whctemple.org, 202-895-6303

Faith in Action

WHC Hunger Project Food Packing Sunday, August 19, 10:00 am at JBSC

Hunger doesn’t take a summer vacation, so we invite you to put on a hair net and join us to make a real impact on hunger in our community. All ages are welcome as we work together to package nutritious meals for those in need. Help support Manna Food, the Capital Area Food Bank, the Maryland Food Bank, and Bread for the City. SSL hours are awarded too.

We’re on Follow @whctemple and use #LifeatWHC in your posts!

Registration required (free): whctemple.org/HungerProject Jeff Bergman: hungerproject@whctemple.org

Youth

WHECTY Summer Night Out

Monday, August 27, 6:00 pm in Bethesda

All rising 9th through 12th graders (and recent alumni too) are invited to join us for a Summer Night Out at California Tortilla in downtown Bethesda. Monday night is also your night to spin the “prize wheel” at California Tortilla, and who knows what other end-of-summer giveaways there will be!

Registration preferred ($): imiller@whctemple.org Ira Miller: imiller@whctemple.org, 301-354-3209

Back to Basics

Explore why we do what we do as Jews, find the sources for our traditions, and delve into the origins for these ideas.

CLASS SCHEDULE

Tuesdays at Temple starting 9/4 7:00 pm

Wednesdays at JBSC starting 9/5 10:00 am and 7:00 pm

COST PER SEMESTER

$150 WHC Members; $250 Non-Members

whctemple.org/BacktoBasics WHC Journal – August 2018 | Page 21

NON-PROFIT ORG US POSTAGE

PAID SUBURBAN, MD PERMIT NO. 4240

3935 Macomb Street NW Washington, DC 20016 202-362-7100 whctemple.org facebook.com/whctemple

President’s Column (continued from page 13)

Temple leadership invaluable insights, feedback, and suggestions that will help to inform our actions in both the shortand long-term.

Already, as I think about the upcoming year at WHC, there is so much that I am looking forward to. There will be creative, new worship opportunities, important milestones to celebrate, and significant issues that we will explore together as a community. I look forward to learning from and with all of you.

Ed and I are also thrilled to continue a tradition started by my predecessor David Astrove, and we will host monthly Shabbat dinners in our home for anyone in our Temple community who wants to join us. Yes, we are inviting the entire congregation for dinner(!) and I hope all of you will sign up at whctemple.org/ ShapiroShabbat and help spread the word among your friends.

To our wonderful clergy, our talented staff, and my fellow congregants — thank you for your trust in me and for your devotion and commitment to our Temple.

Because of you and your support of all that goes on here, I feel confident that Washington Hebrew will continue to go from strength to strength, and these next two years will be remarkable ones in the life of this sacred community.

Good food.

Good people.

Good conversation.

t a t a b Shab apiros’ t h e Sh WHC President Nell Shapiro and her husband, Ed, invite you to join them in their home for one of their monthly Shabbat dinners.

Open to every WHC adult and limited each month to just 12 people, discover commonalities you didn’t know existed, laugh, and feel really good that you made this evening the start of your weekend.

Learn more and sign up online: whctemple.org/ShapiroShabbat