Temple Israel Reform Congregation of Staten Island 315 Forest Avenue Staten Island, New York 10301 tmplisrael@aol.com

‌

Rabbi Michael D. Howald                     Student Cantor Jennifer Benrey Co-Presidents Jerry Gross and Alan Siegel

E-Shalom -MARCH 2020 Temple Israel’s Electronic Bulletin “Shalom, Welcome to Temple Israel....” is a phrase taught to us by Carole Lachman, a beloved, long-time congregant and bulletin editor who died in 2002. We named our bulletin in her honor and worked to realize her vision of Temple Israel as a community that welcomes the stranger and lets no one stand alone. As we move to a new version of this tradition of communicating with our Temple Israel family, we continue to forward Carole’s vision, love and devotion for our synagogue.

A Message from Rabbi Michael D. Howald          The end of June of this year will mark 10 years since I first accepted the position as your rabbi.  In those 10 years, I have learned a lot about this unique community and this singular congregation.  As I look forward to marking this milestone with you at the Temple Israel Gala in May, I wanted to share with you some of what I have discovered about this Island and this congregation and what discoveries still lie ahead.          I came to Staten Island after 3 ½ years in a small California congregation located on the edge of miles of prime agricultural land devoted to strawberries and green leafy vegetables.  Even though Monterrey county was only 100 miles south of San Francisco, Jewish life was hard to find on the central coast of California and our Temple was the only synagogue in town. When I first came to Staten Island to interview in 2010, I was immediately impressed with the vibrancy of the Jewish community here.  Instead of 1 synagogue, Staten Island has more than 10 congregations, from multiple denominations, with a rich history of participation in the history of the Island.  We also boast one of the most beautiful Jewish community centers in the country and an opportunity to learn about Jewish history and tradition at several local colleges.          People who grew up here frequently compare Jewish life on Staten Island unfavorably to that found in Brooklyn and Manhattan. I understand their point, but I feel blessed to be in a diverse community where everyone knows everybody else.  Staten Island may not have the depth of offerings that Brooklyn or the upper West Side can offer, but Staten Islanders try harder and our pride in our heritage and tradition is every bit as strong as any other borough.  From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed into this community in every segment of Island society, Jewish and non-Jewish alike.  As a result of that welcome, Robin and I have made a home here and take pride in our Island and everything it has to offer.          Most wonderful of all has been this congregation that has embraced me and my family.   This congregation responds like no other when tragedy strikes a Temple family and like no other congregation when the time comes to celebrate together.   Over the past 10 years, we have come together countless times to provide solace in grief and to share joy in happy moments.  You have been there with me, to support our members and their families, and your presence has lifted me through funerals and marriages, baby-namings and hospital visits.  Your generosity with both your time and your resources puts Temple Israel at the forefront of Jewish community participation.  Temple Israel may be a small congregation, but its reach exceeds those of synagogues many times its size. It has been my honor and joy to serve as your rabbi.  As I approach 10 years with this congregation, I take enormous pride in what we have accomplished together, and I look forward to what we might still do together. Rabbi Michael Howald 

CLICK HERE TO VOTE!

A Message from Co-Presidents Jerry Gross & Alan Siegel

There is always the temptation to dust off an older column and change a few words and offer it to the congregation as a new view, because who reads this anyway?   Well, we know that many of you do, because you compliment or confront us about what we say.  And that is encouraging.  We hope that many of you do read this one carefully, because, ultimately, the future of Temple Israel is literally in your hands.   The saying “March comes in like a lion…” is often quoted, and maybe this month it is time for us to confront some congregational realities in blunt terms and the heck with ending “…like a lamb.”   More and more of our former leadership core has migrated South – some just for the winter, but others permanently. And even those who haven’t, have stepped back a bit from what they used to do.   We have committees that work very hard – Adult Learning has 3 events lined up for March, and Sisterhood has had many events  during the past two months.  And a special shout out goes to the FUNdraising Committee for the Looney Bin event (off site) and the upcoming Murder Mystery night.    Someone might look at the calendar and say what are you talking about?  Every weekend, except March 1 when the parade closes off the Temple, has an event.  There is a Shabbat Shalom dinner, and on weekdays Rabbi has three Adult Learning events.  Earlier this year, your Shabbat announcements included a few “triple header” weekends.   Exactly.    We need more congregants involved in working on those events, and also attending them, so the committee chairs aren’t tasked with doing everything.  And there are everyday committees like House and Caring Community that perform essential work to keep Temple Israel running.  There is a national organization that has a slogan “All we ask is an hour a week…” and, while honestly, it may be a few hours, but not every week, for those who choose to be involved.   So, identify something you want to be part of and talk to one of us. Better yet, create a new agenda that will attract congregational attention and encourage other congregants to participate and share your thoughts with us.   And now it’s your turn…  Jerry & Alan  Jerrold Gross and Alan Siegel Co-Presidents

NEW OFFICE HOURS FOR TEMPLE ISRAEL Monday, Thursday, Friday - 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Tuesday - 8:30 am - 2:30 pm Wednesday - 8:30 am - 6:30 pm

Notes from Student Cantor Jennifer Benrey

Shalom Temple Israelites, This month, the Hebrew Calendar denotes that we are in the month of Adar, the month that is supposed to be filled with joy and celebration. Reflecting on this past month, we too have experienced much joy in the synagogue. February brought us Shabbat Shira, where both our adult and junior choirs shared their beautiful music with us. We relived our ancestor’s joy of finally crossing the sea to freedom as we heard the chanting of Shira Hayam, the song that Moses and Miriam sang with the Israelites. We also heard the chanting of the Ten Commandments, just as our ancestors did at the foot of Mount Sinai, and shared in their joy of receiving God’s law. Though our ancestors struggled going forward into their journey in the wilderness, we too must not forget their joy at have been chosen to walk forward in that path of God. We too are chosen to enjoy the freedom that our ancestors fought so hard for. The passion and beautiful music that both of our congregational choirs bring us here at Temple Israel bring me immense joy and help remind me that joy is meant to shared. Music is a beautiful vehicle to elevate our souls in that joy. It is said that when we sing, we pray twice; may we continue to raise our voices together in song this month and pray with exceeding joy, the joy of community. B’shir, Student Cantor Jennifer Benrey

Jodi Siegel & Shariann Ganz Co-Presidents

We are sisters. We care for each other, support each other, and are there for each other. We are philanthropists. We actively serve Temple Israel and our Jewish community through thoughtful fundraising. We are visionaries. We constantly look for and implement new ways to engage, support and integrate our congregation in exciting, timely and worthwhile programs. We are forces of nature. We make the impossible happen.  We make sure no detail is overlooked. We are the keepers of tradition. We make every effort to continue the long-standing customs and rituals which helped to make Temple Israel what it is today. We are leaders. We run social and educational programming, community service events, and play a major role in the functioning of our synagogue But…we are tired! We need you to work with us to keep Sisterhood and Temple Israel a vital  religious, caring, passionate, active community. Please come to our meetings and participate in all our programs and initiatives.

UPCOMING EVENTS Shalach Manot Bag Set-Up Friday, March 6 10 am Erev Purim Monday, March 9 7 pm Sisterhood Executive Board Meeting (All Officer, Past Presidents & Directors) Thursday, March 12 7 pm Meal Assembly for the Needy Sunday, March 15 10 am Shabbat Shalom Dinner Friday, March 20 6:30 am Sisterhood Meeting & Program Sunday, March 29 10 am Passover Community Seder Wednesday, April 8 6:00 pm

In Sisterhood, Jodi Siegel & Shariann Ganz Co-Presidents Click image to see Sisterhood Calendar

THE BROTHERHOOD Temple Israel – Reform Congregation of Staten Island brotherhoodpresident.ti.si@gmail.com

Brotherhood held a joint breakfast meeting with Sisterhood on Sunday February 9 th . After business was conducted we had the pleasure of listening to Jay Duskin talk about his family’s roots on Staten Island as well as their connection to Temple Israel. The memories that resonated with some of our congregants brought back memories of years past.  As we plan ahead please remember that our annual Purim Carnival will take place on Sunday March 8 immediately following Religious School. Please look for our flyer for details. Games and prizes for all of the children will be offered along with food and beverage. Please mark your calendars for this special afternoon. On Sunday March 29 th  immediately following Religious School the men of Temple Israel will have the opportunity to bond as well as learn about the symbols and importance of the Passover holiday by participating in our Men’s Seder. Flyers are on the lobby carousel. Looking ahead our commitment to the remembrance of the Holocaust will be honored by our Yellow Candle Project. These candles are lit in remembrance of all those that had to endure such terrible times. We shall never forget and we must keep the memory alive. I ask that when you receive the candle please offer a donation to offset the cost of this endeavor. As the cold winter months wind down continue to keep warm and join us at our monthly Breakfast meetings.  Brotherhood needs your support, Please join us as we become even more successful next year. For only $45 you can become a Brotherhood member. Please mail your check to Temple, attention Brotherhood. Brotherhood is a vital affiliate organization to the Temple. Together we are strong and make a difference to our Temple Family   Please share your ideas with us to enhance the Brotherhood experience.

Your in Friendship and Brotherhood, Jeff Ganz President

CALENDAR OF EVENTS MARCH 2020

F or calendar updates click here. To print or download a copy of this calendar , click here.

MAZEL TOV TO: Jim & Nina Rohan on the marriage of their daughter Elizabeth to Jereme Safier Adam Silberlight    on his promotion to Chief of the Trials Bureau of the Staten Island District   GET WELL: Miriam Friend  THINKING OF YOU: Alicia Baskin, Claire Bleiman, Pam Carlton, David Meltzer, Ken Pickover and Susan Weinman

February brought the observance of Shabbat Shira and Tu B’Shevat.  We thank the Adult and Junior Choirs and Student Cantor Jennifer Benry for the beautiful musical enhancement of our February 7 th  Shabbbat Service.  The Family Shabbat Shira Service was followed by a Tu B’Shevat themed Oneg with home baked goods for which we thank Sisterhood for sponsoring.  We even had the opportunity to plant seeds for growing parsley for Passover. Additionally, there was a Mishkan Pituach Family Service on Saturday morning February 29 th  at 11:00 AM.   March brings the observance of Purim.  The Purim Carnival sponsored by Brotherhood will be held on Sunday March 8 th  starting at noon.   Monday March 9th is Erev Purim.  Megillah reading with a special introduction by Rabbi Howald and Student Cantor Benrey will begin at 7:00 PM.  The Purim Spiel “Green Eggs and Hamentaschen” written and directed by Brooke Lopez follows.  Come in costume and join your fellow congregants for all the fun.   We look forward to seeing you often at Temple this month. Linda Brill and Jeffrey Ganz Co-Chairpersons ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE: Thank you to the following congregants for their assistance with  ushering during services, as well as for honoring the Congregation with their presence on the Bimah in February: Linda Brill, Gayle, Jeffrey, Evan, Shelby and Jacob Chasson, Barbara Feigelman, Barbara Fried, Karen Frey Gamoran, Joseph Gamoran, Shariann Ganz, Jeffrey Ganz, Karen Gross, Judy Pessah and Rhonda Trontz-Allen   Nina Rohan  Ushering Chair

I’ve been invited to light the Shabbat Candles, but I don’t know how. What do I need to do?

Kindling the Shabbat Candles The lighting of candles ushers in Shabbat. The practice is a rabbinic institution dating back to around 500 C.E., when the Talmud was codified, and over the centuries the practice became the tradition. Customarily, it was women who lit the Shabbat candles, but anyone may light them. It is an honor to be invited to light the candles at an Erev Shabbat Service, so please dress up for the occasion! It is Jewish custom to light at least two candles, representing the two passages in the Torah in which we are commanded to keep Shabbat. The first occurs in Exodus 20:8, which states: “Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy,” and the second in Deuteronomy 5:12: “Observe the Sabbath day to keep it holy.” At Temple Israel, when we light candles on the Bimah, we use a third (pre-lit) shorter candle instead of a match. If you are lighting candles on the Bimah, you may take your prayerbook with you when the Rabbi calls you to the Bimah or, you can use the laminated page which is on the Cantor’s lectern for your reading. Once you are in front of the candles, read one of the passages in English on page 121 in Mishkan T'Filah. (It’s your choice!) Then, light the candles. The blessing is said after the actual candle lighting. Why do we light the candles  before  we say the blessing? According to customary observance, one would not light a fire once Shabbat has begun. Thus, we light the candles before saying the blessing because the blessing is what marks the beginning of Shabbat. However, since a blessing always precedes an act, some people wave their hands in front of themselves three times before covering their eyes and reciting the blessing, ensuring they don’t see the burning candles until after the blessing has been completed. Although the custom of waving our hands is not drawn from any known text, it has been passed down for many generations. One teaching suggests it intentionally helps the energy of Shabbat enter our bodies and welcomes the light of Shabbat that will accompany us throughout the evening and into the next day. The order in which we do all of this is purposeful: We light the candles. We cover or close our eyes. We recite the blessing. To read and hear the blessing, click here! After you read the blessing in Hebrew, the Cantor will lead the congregation in the singing of the blessing. Once the blessing has been sung, read the English translation, say Shabbat Shalom to the Cantor and the President and return to your seat. That’s all there is to it! (If you need any assistance, please don’t hesitate to ask any member of our Clergy or Ritual Committee!)

Do you a have question about Temple Israel Rituals or Customs? Submit it to ticommunication@aol.com . Look for the answer in an upcoming bulletin!

ABOUT PURIM

PURIM HISTORY

PURIM CUSTOMS & RITUALS

PURIM ACTIVITIES

MARCH 6, 2020 Milton Feigelman Jacques Pessah * Bessie Bleiman Louis Harrison Elinor May Sadie Mogol * Lillian Selznick * Thomas Sparacio Blanche Dembiner Harry Levee * Albert Rosen * Ella Small Ida Baver * Felix Ecker * Moises Gornstein Ethel Kessler * Edward Lipsitz * David Sappin Harry Siegel * Margaret Guttman Max Kadin * William Levine Elaine Schnittman * Lena Tannenbaum Samuel Smith * And we remember from the Holocaust: Gyulane Ascher Max Leb Manfred Norden Rafael Finzi Pesya Hamburger MARCH 13, 2020 I Sidney Lachman * Carl Litkofsky Cecily Marianne Sostek Veronica Balogh Mary Curatola Norman Feigelman Michael Levine Mark James Sheirr * Ida Grober Charles Overberger Michael Sorkin Esther Bierman Luz Burstein * Robert Stakofsky * Beni Kessler * William Pollack * And we remember from the Holocaust: Berta  Hertzka  Emil  Bernstein  Antoni  Gaska  Bertha  Scholten Endre  Schreiber

MARCH 20, 2020 Estelle Kleinman * Eleanor Weinberg Caroline Elrich Greta Newman * Samuel Tepper * Howard Wolodiger * Harriet Simmons * Thelma Fuller Mollie Kantrowitz Daniel Shapiro Alice W. Blach George Schwartz * And we remember from the Holocaust: Armin  Fried  Alice  Liffmann  Sarah  Ofman  Itzhak  Guttman  Malka  Aizen MARCH 27, 2020 Jerry Fleishman James Levy * Falik Bronzaft Gertrude Doria Ida Herman * Lena Levinson * Jack Sugar Bertram Bronzaft Israel Pisetzner * Steven Schreiber * Lori Singer-Olson Rose Sugarman Jeffrey Walters Florence Rubin Nancy Avis * Aida Josel Brouse * Israel Pisetzner * And we remember from the Holocaust: Gottlob  Duda  Werner  Goldschmidt  Kurt  Klemperer  Hendel  Wajsberg Stanislaw  Tyszko

* These names are on our Memorial Wall.

We are sorry if your name was inadvertently omitted. Please contact Lara at the Temple Office to update your membership information.

The Sisterhood of Temple Israel would like to help you celebrate birthdays and anniversaries for you and your family. You can share the joy of Shabbat and your birthday and/or anniversary by helping to sponsor an Oneg Shabbat on the Friday evening when we celebrate birthdays and anniversaries for that month. In addition to sponsoring the Oneg, the names of those celebrating appear in the Friday night program and celebrants are invited to the Bimah. A contribution of $10 for birthdays and $18 for anniversaries is suggested to honor your special occasion and help the Temple at the same time.   Letters are sent out early in the month prior and payment would be appreciated before the first Friday of the month of the celebration.

Friday, March 6 FAMILY SERVICE AT 7:00 p.m. CHOIR SINGS CELEBRATION OF JANUARY BIRTHDAYS & ANNIVERSARIES Friday, March 13 KABBALAT SHABBAT 8:00 p.m. Choir Sings FOLLOWED BY ONEG Friday, March 20 TOT SHABBAT 6:00 p.m. SHABBAT SHALOM DINNER 6:30 pm KABBALAT SHABBAT 8:00 p.m. NATIONAL REFUGEE SHABBAT FOLLOWED BY ONEG Friday, March 27 KABBALAT SHABBAT 8:00 p.m. FOLLOWED BY ONEG

Services on the 1st Friday of each month begin at 7:00 p.m.

Become part of our community   by participating in our community. Temple Israel is   where community happens. Next Shabbat Shalom Dinner: The next Shabbat Shalom Dinner will take place on  Friday, March 20 th   at 6:30pm, immediately following Tot Shabbat.   Reservations are needed by March 8 th . Look for the  flyer in this E-Shalom .  Share Shabbat. Connect with your Temple Israel family. Meet and greet old friends and make new ones. We look forward to seeing everyone. ** TI-   WIIFM (Temple Israel-What’s In It For Me) – A Must-Read This Month In this space we have been featuring what our members-both new and long-term-say about their connection to Temple Israel. This month we are reprinting Jay Duskin’s presentation to the joint Brotherhood/Sisterhood meeting on Sunday, February 9 th .  Jay’s talk was very moving as he described his family’s four generation connection to Temple Israel and the role that Temple Israel has played in shaping who he is today. ******************************************************************************** From Jay Duskin: I have to preface my talk on the fact that other than my aunt on my mother’s  side, who was from Jersey, at this point in my life, unfortunately, all of my older relatives have passed,  including my siblings,  save for a couple of cousins who are older than me.  Thus, I don’t have a lot of resources to get information from regarding family history.  My Great Grandparents, Max Duskin and Anna Duskin, came to Staten Island in the mid to late 1800’s from Russia and settled on the North Shore on Jersey Street. My Great Grandfather had his own business as an oil cloth layer, which is a cloth water proofer. There was a sizeable Jewish community on Jersey Street and a congregation that most attended was called the Jersey Street Schul, according to my cousin Paul.  I believe my great grandfather may have been a founding member.  My Grandfather, Michael Duskin, who was born here on Staten Island, was an electrician  who helped to build the Staten Island Zoo, and other structures on Staten Island as part of the New Deal Work Project put forth by FDR . He later started his own electrical contracting business called Duskin Electric, and upon his death in 1962, my father succeeded him in this business.    My Grandmother, Rae Duskin, was the only kosher caterer on Staten Island and worked out of her home on Oakland Avenue, just a few blocks up from Castleton Avenue. She actually hosted weddings and other events at her home, as there was no Jewish catering hall.  Paul Hollender, a local attorney, related stories his parents told about being married in my Grandmother’s house over 70 years ago. I know my family has been members of this congregation for as long as this building has stood, as my father most certainly had a hand in doing some of the electrical work during the construction of this building. My parents and my father’s brother’s family were members of the Temple when it stood on Victory Blvd in Silver Lake before the fire in 1959 destroyed it. My cousin Paul remembers going to services there and picking up his sisters from Sunday School there.  He also remembers that Hebrew School was held at The Masonic Lodge on Carey Ave /Post Ave, the old Mandalay Catering Hall, and sniffing the books and smelling the smoke from the fire on them. He also said Rabbi Kramer saved the Torahs and the prayer books from the fire.  So for as long as I can remember, I was a member of Temple Israel and I fondly remember coming here to this building as a young toddler for various religious celebrations. I remember sitting in the sanctuary next to my dad, separated from my brother because we could not sit still nor behave next to each other and I remember my father exerting pressure on my hands if I acted out, so that the pain would make we want to scream, but knowing if I did, it would be much worse, so I settled down. I remember the Purim Schpiel with my various classmates being fidgety, mischievous and obnoxious…I most vividly remember being so clever as to save a macaroon for later when I got home, by putting it in my new pants pocket and getting home to reveal my treasure only to find out that I could not get it out of my pocket, as it had melded with my pants   pocket and remembering my mother’s not too happy response. I also remember the Purim Carnival and how much fun it was to run around and play games and win prizes and eat hamentashen. I remember how adored and loved and respected Rabbi Kramer was, and his wife as well, so sweet with the smile that was always warm and welcoming. Rabbi Kramer was a legend. Such a wonderful Rabbi!  He actually came out of retirement to do my bar mitzvah at my family’s request and because there was some controversy going on with the current Rabbi, Rabbi Brenner. During my Hebrew School studies, I met my best friend for life, Paul Scheckner. He never lets me forget the day I was eating a  Kitkat BAR in the parking lot before Hebrew School. I think I had just met him and he was on some sort of a diet . I would not share it with him so I would not hinder his diet, but actually I wanted it all to myself. He was not pleased, but thereafter we built a bond that has yet to be broken. Even as he moved to Brussels after college to pursue his professional career, we remain the best of friends and I owe a large part of that to our days at Temple Israel. Other memories of Temple are going to Weinsteins, which was on the corner of Forest Ave  and Broadway, to get Jewish appetizing to bring home and devour after Temple. And I remember getting to see my cousins and good friends during the High Holy Day services- The Weisses, The Marshons, The Sieglers and other cousin, aunts and uncles.  It was always a happy time and always had such good vibes and spirit.  I also remember that Rabbi Kramer’s son, Michael, who later became a rabbi, was our Hebrew teacher, helping us to prepare for our bar mitzvah. He was a wonderful teacher, much loved like his parents. I was never confirmed and after my bar mitzvah my connection to the Temple waned for many years. When Karen and I got engaged, we weren’t affiliated with a Temple, but I sought out the long retired Rabbi Kramer to see if he would consider marrying us. He was 87 at the time and agreed to do it. However, we later received the call from his wife, Harriett, saying he wasn’t up to it and was extremely apologetic. We understood as we were getting married at a Temple in Queens-Temple Torah- that the travel was too much for him.  It wasn’t until we had our son, Jonathan, and he was a toddler, that we came back to Temple Israel. Almost 25 years ago, Karen, an attorney practicing in Manhattan, met Rob Coppersmith in court. He recognized her from the ferry commute in the morning, realizing   she was a Staten Islander. They chatted and he said he had a daughter, Miriam, the same age as Jonathan and kept telling Karen to come for Tot Shabbat, which his wife, Cantor Suzanne Bernstein, ran at Temple Israel. So Karen brought Jonathan and the rest is history. We were once again part of the Temple Israel community. Karen enjoyed the Temple Israel community and was inspired to make her Bat Mitzvah in 1998, learning to read Hebrew for the first time and reading so beautifully from the Torah that day in 1998. Jonathan loved coming to Temple for the various services, enjoyed Sunday School and his religious instruction and was Bar Mitzvahed  here in 2006. In a twist that could only happen for me at Temple Israel, I memorialized my Mom on May 19, 2013, standing on the  bimah in the exact same place, on the same exact day, where 40 years earlier I Was Bar Mitzvahed . Looking out upon friends and family in those same blue seats that have been there since I can remember, I realized that many of the same friends and family had  been there for both very different life events . It is amazing to be part of our Temple Israel community. Through all the years, so much  has changed, yet so much has stayed the same. I am always happy when I walk through these doors, whether I spend a few minutes or a few hours here. I am always welcomed, embraced, comforted and celebrated, depending on the occasion, and have always appreciated it being such an intricate part of who I am. We even have a Rabbi now who most reminds me of Rabbi Kramer. Rabbi Howald has been a great inspiration to my family and me in the 10 years he has been here. Yes, we are lucky to have Temple Israel as our spiritual base and Rabbi Howald as our spiritual leader. ********************************************************** Some things to try this month:  (flyers available throughout this E-Shalom) For Adults only: * Attend Rabbi’s discussion of The World To Come on March 4 th  at 7:30. * Improve your Hebrew at Hebrew Boot Camp led by Rabbi Howald on March 18 th  and 25 th  at 7pm. For Young Families: * Make wonderful Purim memories at the Purim Shpiel, Megillah reading and Shalach Manot distribution on Monday, March 9 th  at 7pm. *Attend Tot Shabbat on Friday, March 20 th  at 6pm and bond with friends at the Shabbat Shalom dinner immediately following. Reservations required. * Enjoy Brian the Animal Guy on March 29 th . The above is only a sampling of what is available.  Many more opportunities for fun, learning and spiritual growth are listed in this E-Shalom. Temple Israel is a busy place, and there is something for everyone. If you know of anyone who is interested in joining, please contact the Membership Committee through the Temple Office. 

Click flyer to download or print.

$$$ EASY fundraising

1.Go to Smile.Amazon.com 2.Select "Change Your Charity" 3.Type in “Temple Israel Reform 4.Congregation of Staten Island" 5.Click Search 6.Click Select 7.Order as usual. Temple Israel benefits!

We are still collecting Raffles for the Avis Foundation event Jews and the Great American Songbook, a night of cabaret on March 14th at 8pm. This is free to Temple members. Non-Members are $25. Please RSVP to Terry Baver at 718-490-4428 or at  terryqbaver@gmail.com  so they know how many people to expect. Please join us on Saturday May 2, 2020 as we set sail for a rousing murder mystery adventure at Temple Israel at 7pm. Admission is $40 per passenger and includes hors d'oeuvres and dessert. Please book your cruise by April 7, 2020 for a role in the murder mystery. RSVP's are very important for this event. Please see attached flyer. Please consider donating a gift to raffle anytime, or please let us know if you know any businesses that might be willing to donate. Respectfully submitted, Rhonda Trontz-Allen, Karen Frey-Gamoran, Lissa Winchel Co-Chairs

CLICK ON FLYER TO PRINT OR DOWNLOAD.

ORDER FORMS ARE NOW AVAILABLE. CLICK ON THE FORMS BELOW TO DOWNLOAD OR PRINT THEM. JUST FILL THEM OUT AND GIVE THEM TO LARRY HANIBAL WITH PAYMENT.

ABOUT PASSOVER

PASSOVER HISTORY

BLESSINGS

CUSTOMS & RITUALS

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

CLICK ON FLYER TO DOWNLOAD OR PRINT

Click on flyer to download or print.

Temple Israel Sisterhood Judaica Shop EVERY HOLIDAY EVERY LIFE CYCLE EVERY SIMCHA Just what you need and just what they want! The only place on Staten Island for all your Jewish gifts. Special Orders available.

Contact branchtr@aol.com or call the Temple Office at 718-727-2231.

Some featured items this month:

ADULT CHOIR REHEARSALS Wednesday, March 11 to Sing on Friday, March 13 Wednesday, 1 & April 22 to Sing on Friday, April 24th Wednesday, 29 & May 6 to Sing on Friday, May 8 Wednesday, 3 & 10 to Sing on Friday, June 12 (Board Installation) Wednesday, 17 to Sing on Friday, June 19 (Brotherhood/Sisterhood Installation) JUNIOR CHOIR REHEARSALS SUNDAYS March 8 at 11:30 a.m. March 15 at 12 noon March 22 at 12 noon March 29 at 12 noon

If you would like to join the Choir, just come to any rehearsal... and all the rehearsals that follow!

Click here to print or download Tot Shabbat flyer.

Religious school students learned about and celebrated Tu Bishvat by coming together as a school in the sanctuary for some Tu Bishvat trivia before enjoying a seder of holiday foods. The day culminated with students planting parsley seeds which they’ll watch grow and then be able to use in their family Passover Seders.  Our Purim Celebrations begin with Brotherhood’s Purim Carnival on Sunday, March 8th at noon. We look forward to seeing all of our kids at the Purim Shpiel and Megillah Reading Purim service the next evening on Monday, March 9 at 7pm. Every child who comes and enjoys the evening will have a special Shalach Manot treat to take home with them. Don’t forget to come in costume and celebrate this joyous holiday! Looking ahead, please stay tuned for details about the Religious School Model Passover Seder and how you can help make it a special and memorable experience for all our students. I look forward to seeing you Sundays and to working together with you to support our school. -- Felicia Otto

Once again we thank everyone who participated in Adult Learning's return of Rosh Chodesh held on January 27th, hosted by Susan Marks. This Celebration of Women was a great success! We would like to repeat this event in late spring. We're looking for people to host and to work on the program. Anyone interested should email Cheryl at  cherylmlevine@gmail.com . On February 18th, Judy Lee led a spirited discussion of our book selection, "Fleishman Is In Trouble" by Taffy Brodesser-Akner. This novel was on the list of NY Times 100 Most Notable Books of 2019. The meeting was hosted by Maxine Cohen. Thank you Judy and Maxine. We have a very busy March coming up. On March 5th at 12pm we'll be holding our next planning meeting at Deanna Feder's home. On March 4th at 7:30pm, Rabbi Howald will be presenting a lecture/discussion on Olam HaBa: The World to Come. On March 18th and 25th he will be presenting continuing  Hebrew classes at 7pm. We are so excited to be co-sponsoring a special presentation with Sisterhood on March 29th. Jonathan Goldstein will be speaking on "The Exodus:Myth and Reality." This talk will take us on the journey of the Jewish people from enslavement to freedom. Jonathan has an MA in Land of Israel Studies and Archaeology and gives talks and tours for the 92StY and many other organizations. Don't miss this outstanding event! If you have any questions about any of our activities please contact Cheryl at  cherylmlevine@gmail.com  or Judy at   judithpessah@gmail.com . We hope to see you soon. Cheryl Levine Judy Pessah Co-chairs

On Saturday, March 14th we will be offering an evening of Cabaret music for the adults of our congregation. “ A Fine Romance” will be presented by Karen O’Donnell and Mickey Tennenbaum. The evening is free to members of Temple Israel, $25 for non-members. Join us on Friday , March 20 for Tot Shabbat at 6:00. Then bring the family to the Shabbat Shalom Dinner which follows immediately after the service. Flyers are available in the e-bulletin and in the Temple lobby. On Sunday, March 22 another delicious CulturEats program, created by Alina Shteynberg, will be offered from 1:00 - 3:30 PM to our children ages 9-above. Advance registration is a must. Saturday evening, March 28th is second trip to Board and Brush for the parents of our religious school students. Registration is limited. You must contact Bryn Biren at MsBunny7@aol.com  ASAP. We welcome back “ BRIAN the ANIMAL GUY” on Sunday, March 29th at 12:30 PM in our Social Hall. We are looking for additional young families that would like to make our synagogue their religious home. If you have anyone in mind contact Terry Baver at  Terryqbaver@gmail.com  or Bryn Biren at  MsBunny7@aol.com . We hope to see every family on Tuesday, March 9th at 7:00 PM for the reading of the Megillah and the Dr. Seuss based Purim Shpiel, “ Green Eggs and Hamentashen”. Bryn Biren

SUNDAY, MARCH 1 PURIM SHPIEL REHEARSAL 3:00 pm WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4 HEBREW SCHOOL 4:30 pm FRIDAY, MARCH 6 EREV SHABBAT FAMILY SERVICE Followed by Birthday/Anniversary Oneg 7:00 pm SATURDAY, MARCH 7 SHABBAT SERVICE 11:00 am SUNDAY, MARCH 8 RELIGIOUS SCHOOL 9:30 am JUNIOR CHOIR REHEARSAL 11:30 am PURIM CARNIVAL 12 noon PURIM SHPIEL REHEARSAL 1 pm MONDAY, MARCH 9 EREV PURIM MEGILLAH READING, SERVICE AND PURIM SHPIEL (MANDATORY FOR ALL STUDENTS) 7:00 pm WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11 HEBREW SCHOOL 4:30 pm FRIDAY, MARCH 13 EREV SHABBAT SERVICE 8:00 pm SATURDAY, MARCH 14 SHABBAT SERVICE 11:00 am SUNDAY, MARCH 15 RELIGIOUS SCHOOL 9:30 am JUNIOR CHOIR REHEARSAL 12 noon WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18 HEBREW SCHOOL 4:30 pm FRIDAY, MARCH 20 TOT SHABBAT 6:00 pm SHABBAT SHALOM DINNER 6:30 pm EREV SHABBAT SERVICE- NATIONAL REFUGEE SHABBAT 8:00 pm SATURDAY, MARCH 21 SHABBAT SERVICE 11:00 am SUNDAY, MARCH 22 RELIGIOUS SCHOOL 9:30 am JUNIOR CHOIR REHEARSAL 12 noon CULTUREATS PROGRAM 1:00 (RESERVATIONS REQUIRED) WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25 HEBREW SCHOOL 4:30 pm FRIDAY, MARCH 27 EREV SHABBAT SERVICE 8:00 pm SATURDAY, MARCH 28 MISHKAN PITUACH FAMILY SHABBAT SERVICE 11:00 am SUNDAY, MARCH 22 RELIGIOUS SCHOOL 9:30 am JUNIOR CHOIR REHEARSAL 12 noon BRIAN THE ANIMAL GUY 12:30

CLICK FLYER TO DOWNLOAD OR PRINT

Click on flyer to print or download.

Since June, over 300 new books have been added to the library, many of them recently published, especially novels with Jewish themes, written by Jewish authors. While new books are added each month, we are still accepting all books with Jewish content. They can be left in the box in the office or if there are a considerable number for donation, contact Steve Scher and he will pick them up. The library hours are Sunday morning and Wednesday afternoon, coinciding with Hebrew School classes. Books can be returned to the office where there is a box for them as well as for any books to be donated. For more information, contact Steve Scher at 347-683-0606 or  stevescher12@gmail.com  Steve Scher Chair

Click on the flyer to download or print.

Are you stressed? Do you want to build your core strength? Join Us. Thursdays 7:15-8:15 p.m. (March 5, 12,19,26) Sundays 6:00 -7:00 p.m. (March 1,8,15,29) Free for Temple Israel Members Non-members - $15 Bring your own Yoga Mat Both sets of classes are for ADULT ONLY. Both chair and mat students are accommodated at each class. For more information, contact Bryn Biren 718-727-2231

Please consider becoming a member of our KAVOD SOCIETY. It helps to make membership available to all our families. Speak to our Financial Secretary to upgrade your membership.

If you have any questions about your membership or if you know a potential new member please contact our Financial Secretary Jennifer Straniere at  tmplisrfinsec@aol.com .

Happy March!   I have sent out reminder statements to those members who still have outstanding commitments. Please take the time to go over these statements and call me if you have any questions or email me at  tmplisrfinsec@aol.com.   If you know anyone who might be interested in becoming a member of Temple Israel please have them contact me or call the Temple Office at 718-727-2231.   We urge you to consider becoming a member of the Kavod Society or if you are already a Kavod member please consider moving up a level. This additional funding allows us to assist some of our other members. Have a good month, Jennifer Straniere Financial Secretary

Contributions to Temple Israel as tributes, dedications or memorials are welcome  and are published in the weekly Shabbat program. Donations can be dedicated to the general Temple Israel Fund or to any of the following specific funds:  Adult Education Fund  Building Preservation Fund  Caring Community Fund  Carole Lachman Memorial Fund Choir Fund  Estelle A. Gootenberg Memorial Fund (for Torah Repair/ Restoration)  Gerald J. Lustig Memorial Fund (for Ark & Ark Doors)  Liheyot Fund  Membership Fund  Prayerbook Fund  Rabbi Marcus Kramer Memorial Library Fund  Shoah Education Fund Scholarship Fund  Social Action A $5.00 minimum donation is requested for these funds. Checks for donations to any of these funds should be made payable to Temple Israel. PRAYERBOOKS may be dedicated in honor or memory of a special person or occasion. For specific prayerbooks and donation amounts, look for the Prayerbook icons found in this bulletin Please make checks for Donations to the RABBI’S DISCRETIONARY FUND payable to that fund. Donations in any amount may be made to SISTERHOOD OF TEMPLE ISRAEL or BROTHERHOOD OF TEMPLE ISRAEL with checks made payable directly to the affiliate organization. For a leaf on the TREE OF LIFE in honor of a simcha, please scroll down.  For permanent MEMORIAL PLAQUES on our Family Memorial Wall or Original Memorial Wall, please call the Temple office at 718-727-2231. To see list of all recent Tributes and Program Donations to Funds...

CLICK HERE

Thanks for making our E-Shalom an award winning publication!

If you are not receiving this Bulletin via a direct e-mail and would like to, please contact us at TICOMMUNICATION@aol.com to be added to our mailing list.

CONTACT INFORMATION 718-727-2231     tmplisrael@aol.com Visit our website

Follow Us ‌

ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES Our E-Bulletin is shared with the entire Temple Israel Family and the Staten Island Community. If you are a local business or community organization and you would like to advertise in our monthly bulletin, please contact the Temple Office at 718-727-2231 or e-mail TICommunication@aol.com.