December 30, 2020 | 15 Tevet 5781
Do you have a question about any of the events or announcements in this email? Call the synagogue office at 215.635.6611. 

Do you have good news to share? We sure can use it! Let us know and we'll include it in the weekly email.

Please note: Due to coronavirus, the synagogue building will be closed until further notice. Until then, all services will be held virtually through Zoom. See below for the links.

***The May/June 2021 Newsletter is now online (the March/April 2021 Newsletter is too, of course).
Donations
If you'd like to make a donation to AJ, you can make a donation online, on our website. Or, you can click here to download a donation form.
Service Schedule
SHABBAT BEHAR | BEHUKOTAI
May 7, 8, 2021 | 26 Iyar 5781

Friday Evening
Kabbalat Shabbat
with Strings Attached
6:15 PM

Saturday Morning
Morning Service
9:30 AM

Bar Mitzvah of
Judah Blitstein,
Son of
Dan and Mia Blitstein

You can see a Pew Pamphlet here.

Saturday Evening
Minhah-Ma'ariv-Havdalah
7:45 PM

ROSH HODESH SIVAN
May 12, 2021 | 1 Sivan 5781

Wednesday Morning
Morning Service
7:00 AM

Through the Zoom platform, congregants can attend services virtually.

REGULAR WEEKDAY SCHEDULE
Evenings
Sunday through Thursday: 7:00 PM

Mornings
Sunday: 9:00 AM
Monday and Thursday: 7:20 AM
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday:
7:30 AM
We have three Zoom links for AJ services.

For Friday evening and Saturday morning services:
By computer:
By phone:
Please dial 929.436.2866 or 301.715.8592.
Meeting ID: 970 5403 7610
(Password required)

For Saturday evening services:
By computer:
By phone:
Please dial 929.436.2866 or 301.715.8592. 
Meeting ID#: 933131679
(Password required.)

Congregants should see the separate email for the latest password for Friday evening, Saturday morning, and Saturday evening services.

For all other services (Sunday through Friday morning and Sunday through Thursday evening services):
By computer:
By phone:
Please dial 929.436.2866 or 301.715.8592. 
Meeting ID#: 109428724
(No password required.)
A Tip for Using Zoom
If you are having trouble with links for AJ services or events that are held via Zoom, here's another way to get into a meeting.

1. Go to https://zoom.us.
2. Click on "Join a Meeting" in the upper right. It looks like this:
You'll see a screen that looks like this:
3. A meeting ID is included with all Zoom information we distribute. Type or copy and paste the meeting ID into the box (just the numbers).
4. Click "Join." You will be placed into the meeting or be put in a "Waiting Room" until the meeting starts, or until the host of the meeting lets you in. Enjoy your meeting!
Zoom Update
A new update for Zoom has been released. For best results and to avoid any problems, update the Zoom application on your computer. For instructions on how to do so on your computer, use one of the links below.

What's Happening
Kabbalat Shabbat with Strings Attached
Friday, May 7 at 6:15 PM (via Zoom)

Unplug from a busy week with an acoustic Shabbat service led by Hazzan Howard Glantz with familiar tunes that will put a smile on your face and a song in your heart. For all ages, from babies to bubbies. Zoom in with your friends for this relaxed, casual, and enjoyable service! Please plan to join us! Zoom info:

By phone: Please dial 929.436.2866 or 301.715.8592
Meeting ID: 970 5403 7610 (Password required)

Next Strings Attached: June 4, 6:15 PM
Confirmation
Friday, May 14 at 6:15 PM (via Zoom)

Join our confirmands as we celebrate their achievement!

By phone: Please dial 929.436.2866 or 301.715.8592
Meeting ID: 970 5403 7610 (Password required)
Kehillah Events Coming in May:
Fighting White Supremacy: From Charlottesville to Capitol Hill (via Zoom)
Thursday, May 6 at 7:30 PM (TONIGHT!)

In 2017, white supremacists meticulously planned and carried out a violent attack on Charlottesville that resulted in dozens of injuries and the death of Heather Heyer. Join Integrity First for America Executive Director Amy Spitalnick and Regional Director of ADL Philadelphia Shira Goodman for a conversation about how we can hold these violent extremists accountable — starting with IFA’s Charlottesville lawsuit, Sines v. Kessler, which takes on the leaders of this violent movement and heads to trial this fall. Click here to register.
Jewish Learning Fest (Tikkun Leyl)
Sunday, May 16 from 7:30 PM to 12:00 AM

Let’s virtually celebrate Shavuot with a night of learning. You will have the ability to choose from a lineup of engaging and thought-provoking sessions. Here's a sneak peek at the topics: Collaborative Services; Who was I at Sinai? A Midrash-Making Experience; Emigrating to Torahland!; Hasidic Thought in the 20th Century; Let the Book of Ruth Be our Teacher: from Scarcity to Abundance; The Holiness of Forgetting; and Wise Women, Witnesses, and Warriors: Welcoming Women of our Tanakh. Click here to register.

The evening will begin at 7:00 PM with Minhah Ma'ariv -- a collaborative service full of song with Cantor Agar, Cantor Freedman, and Hazzan Glantz. 

(There won't be an AJ-led evening service or any additional Shavuot learning at AJ this year.)
Harrisburg Advocacy Day
Wednesday, May 19 from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM

Join the Jewish Federation’s Jewish Community Relations Council and ADL for a day of advocacy as we meet -- virtually -- with our elected officials at the State Capitol in Harrisburg to raise awareness about issues of concern to our communities. Sessions are planned from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM. These include:

8:00 AM - 8:30 AM  A Conversation with Lt. Gov. John Fetterman
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM Panel discussions with Rep. Matt Bradford (D-Montgomery County), Minority Appropriations Chair; Rep. Jordan Harris (D-Philadelphia); Rep. Kerry Benninghoff (R-Centre), Majority Leader; and Rep. Seth Grove (R-York), State Government Chair.
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Group advocacy sessions with key legislators about: safeguarding the right to vote; protecting the safety net and combating food insecurity; improving laws regarding hate crimes.

Book Discussion: Palestine Posts
Sunday, June 13, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM 

Join us for a book discussion of “Palestine Posts: An Eyewitness Account of the Birth of Israel,” featuring author Daniel Chertoff. Daniel’s father, Mordecai, came to Palestine in 1947 as a twenty-five-year-old, determined to make his contribution to the emerging Jewish State. Between 1947 and 1950, he was a local news editor, foreign news editor, and war correspondent for The Palestine Post; a soldier in the Haganah; and a resident of Jerusalem. The book reflects the personal journey undertaken by the author to better understand a crucial period in Jewish history as well as his father as a young man, and describes powerful encounters. The book is available via Amazon in either softcover or Kindle or through the publisher, Koren. Use the code “posts” for a 15% discount. To register, click here.
Rav Shai To Discuss Coherent Judaism with AJU
Monday, May 24 at 2:00 PM

On Monday, May 24, American Jewish University (AJU) will welcome Rav Shai (virturally) to discuss his book Coherent Judaism. The talk will begin at 2:00 PM and the cost is $18. Please register here.
Torah Fund Event, Honoring AJ President Judy Stutman Izes
Sunday, June 6 at 10:30 AM

On Sunday, June 6, AJWA Sisterhood will honor AJ President Judy Stutman Izes with the well-deserved Torah Fund Woman of Achievement Award. Hopefully you have received your invitation!

If you haven't yet contributed to the Torah Fund, there's still time! Contact Merril Stup (215.782.3735) or Violet Zeitlin (215.635.1587).
SAVE THE DATE! E-waste Recycling Drive at AJ
Sunday, June 27 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM

AJ will be partnering with PAR*-Recycling Works to hold an e-waste recycling event in the parking lot on Sunday, June 27 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. PAR-Recycling Works is a nonprofit electronics recycler that provides transitional employment to people returning from prison. They will ensure that every item is disposed of in a safe and environmentally conscious way. *People Advancing Reintegration

Accepted Items: (DO NOT DROP OFF ITEMS AT AJ PRIOR TO EVENT)
Printers
Mice
Keyboards
Monitors (LCD) flat-screens
AV equipment
Phones
Speakers
Motherboards
Hard drives
Power supply wire (chargers, connectors, etc.) 
Computer batteries
Laptops
Gaming equipment
Routers
Server cabinets
Floppy disks
Docking stations
Miscellaneous computer-related materials
The following items include a cost to ensure they are properly recycled:
• Older CRT monitors and TVs: $35 to $75 each (size varies)
• Flatscreen TVs: $20 each
• Computer monitors: $5 each
• Air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and air purifiers: $20 each
• Microwave ovens: $10 each
Announcements
Shavuot Discount at Rita's!
Sunday, May 16, from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Rita's Water Ice at 1709 Grant Avenue in Northeast Philadelphia is offering congregants of member synagogues of the Kehillah of Old York Road 25% off of purchases of kids', small, and large sizes of water ice and custard. Rita's is kosher certified by Keystone-K Philadelphia. The Kehillah of Old York Road thanks the Kasner family for their sponsorship.

Sign up here for the coupon code. (This offer excludes gallons, party tubs, and DIY.)
Exclusive Virtual Screening: To Bigotry No Sanction
Wednesday, June 2, at 7:00 PM

"To Bigotry No Sanction" is a magnificent musical work composed by Jonathan Comisar based on George Washington’s historic Letter to the Hebrew Congregation of Newport, Rhode Island.

Comisar’s stunning new cantata embodies touchstones of Jewish and American music in an orchestral/choral setting. This professional performance conducted by Kensho Watanbe features members of The Philadelphia Orchestra and a multicultural choir representing 17 languages. 

The June 2 program includes introductory readings by renowned historical interpretive actor Dean Malissa as “George Washington” and a post-performance discussion with Jonathan Comisar and KI Rabbi Lance J. Sussman, PhD, a professor of American Jewish History, moderated by Emmy Award-winning documentary filmmaker Sam Katz of History Making Productions. 

This is a free, prerecorded event, no registration required. On June 2 at 7:00 PM, watch event here: bit.ly/ki-tbns.

Presented by Reform Congregation Keneseth Israel (KI). All are welcome
Opportunities for Teens

The Diller Teen Fellows Program
The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia is honored to partner with the Diller Teen Fellows program, an incredible experiential learning, traveling and growth experience for 10th and 11th graders.

The program aims to build the next generation of committed Jewish leaders: to inspire and empower a global network of teens and equip them with the skills, confidence, knowledge and Jewish values they need to help create a better world. Each year, hundreds of young people take part in the Diller training program from 32 communities across the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia, South America, Europe and Israel.

Applications for the 2021-2022 Diller Teen Fellows program are now open through June 25, 2021Click here to apply! Know a teen who would be a good candidate for the program? Nominate them here by June 4, 2021.

CityStage 2021: Transformational Summer Program for High School Students
CityStage is a unique performing arts pre-college summer institute, where rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors explore theater through a Jewish lens, led by experts in the field. As part of this online one college credit* program, participants will train in acting techniques, playwriting, script analysis, and more while creating a meaningful Jewish community. CityStage students will also explore the history of Jewish identity in the performing arts field and on stage while creatively analyzing Jewish texts and rituals.

Master Classes. In addition to daily training and study, CityStage offers master classes with Jewish stars and creators from Broadway and Off-Broadway, as well as electives in Musical Theater, Improvisation, Songwriting, Design, College Auditioning, and more! 

A Taste of College. CityStage participants experience the excitement of college life and coursework and form lasting friendships with a network of passionate teens from around the country. The program culminates with a showcase of collaborative online performances.

Interactive Shabbat and Sunday programming, too!

COST: $750

*For students enrolling in List College, 1 credit will transfer automatically. For students wishing to apply the credit elsewhere, an additional $700 will be due.

CityStage is online, from June 27 to July 11. Apply here.
Lifecycle Events

Stephen Blumenfeld, husband of Irene, passed away on Tuesday, April 27, 2021.

Dr. Irwin "Buddy" Feldman, brother of our congregant, Roberta Liebenberg, passed away on Saturday, May 1, 2021.

Andrew J. Green, son of Margie Green and the late Aaron Green z"l, will marry Tori Heffler on June 5, 2021. Mazal Tov!
Two Programs for Teens from JEVS

Paid Summer Internships Available

Do you know a current Jewish college sophomore or junior? Tell them about the Franklin C. Ash Summer Internship Progam? Applications are being taken now and there are limited spaces. This is a paid summer internship.

The Franklin C. Ash Summer Internship Program offers mentoring, networking, and workplace experiences for high-achieving Jewish college students interested in nonprofit career paths. You can learn more here.

Lasko College Prep Program

The Lasko College Prep Program now offers two tracks this summer for FREE* college counseling and SAT test prep guidance. Each program is tailored to meet students where they are in the college planning process and offers evening classes to accommodate the schedules active of high school students.

College Readiness:
Eligibility: Rising juniors in fall of 2021 interested in beginning the college planning process. Program includes: 10 hours of group SAT test prep; 10 hours of group college-themed workshops (topics include: Basic Pre-SAT Prep, Curating a High School Curriculum, Exploring Potential Career Interests, Debunking College Myths, Financing Your Education, etc.); and 2 one-hour individual counseling sessions with an Educational Counselor.

College Prep: 
Eligibility: Rising seniors in the fall of 2021 looking for guidance through the intricate college application and financial aid processes. Program includes: 10 hours of group SAT test prep; 14 hours of group workshops (topics include: Completing the Common App, Resources for Scholarships, College Essay Writing, Jewish Life on Campus, Transition to College, Choosing the Right Colleges, etc., and additional Family FAFSA workshop in fall 2021); and unlimited individual college counseling sessions throughout 
senior year.

Click here for more info. You can download a flyer here.
Rav Shai's Latest Publication, Coherent Judaism

All of the copies of Rav Shai's latest book, Coherent Judaism, that we had at AJ have been sold. No worries if you haven't bought your copy yet! They are available on Amazon here

Rav Shai will be happy to sign the books purchased through Amazon. Just drop your copy off at AJ and he will sign them.
Programs for Seniors at AJ 

Kleinlife: Montgomery County suspended onsite activities in March 2020. As of October 2020, they have begun to offer programs via Zoom! You can see the calendar offering learning sessions, yoga, and more here.

Grab & Go Meals! Kleinlife is now offering Grab & Go frozen meals once a week from AJ. You MUST RESERVE at least a week ahead of time for 5 frozen kosher meals, which will be put into your car in our drive-by on Thursdays at noon. Call 215.635.5244 for more details.
Kosher Meals from Betty the Caterer

Betty the Caterer is offering kosher meals for pickup at MBIEE. They are offering weekend meals called "Weekend in a Box" and you can find the flyer hereHere is the menu from April 29 through May 13. You can find out more about Betty the Caterer here. Stay informed about their services and money-saving specials on FacebookTwitter, or Instagram.
Kosher Foods Available Through KMF Food Distribution

KMF Food Distribution is a locally owned family business with over 35 years of experience in Kosher food service distribution. Our commitment to customer service and high-quality products have allowed us to be a reliable source for Kosher consumers nationwide. COVID-19 has effected our community in numerous ways including severe interruptions in our food supply. As a result, we are offering poultry, beef, lamb, veal, deli, fish, cheese, Heat N' Serve, and other traditional items.

In partnering with Congregation Adath Jeshurun, KMF Food Distribution would like to offer a special group delivery order. Orders placed by Sunday will be delivered to Melrose B'nai Israel Emanu-El on Wednesday between 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM. The minimum order has been reduced to $100.

You can download a general flyer here, and an order form here. Order forms can also be found on their website at www.koshermartfoods.com/retail.

KMF Food Distribution: 615 Deer Road Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
Phone: (856) 444-0143; Email: retail@koshermartfoods.com
Are You Suffering From Loneliness?

The social distancing required to defeat the coronavirus has upended our lives. We have been separated from family, friends, and coworkers. If you are experiencing loneliness or know of someone who is, please let us know how we can help. You can reach Rav Shai at 215.992.4112 or ravshai@adathjeshurun.info, or Hazzan Glantz at 215.439.5033 or hglantz@gmail.com.
Community and Other Events You May Be Interested In
New Weekly Digital Series: “Bringing Israel Home.” Each Wednesday evening for 16 weeks, chef Michael Solomonov (of Sahav) will bring Israel’s extraordinarily diverse and vibrant culinary landscape into people’s homes via weekly interviews with food and cultural figures in Israel, cooking both new and signature recipes live in his home kitchen, and through live conversation with viewers. Watch the show each week to experience Israeli cuisine like you’ve never seen it before and cook a unique, new Israeli-inspired recipe along with this James Beard award-winning chef, right from your own kitchen. Tune in every Wednesday night at 8:00 pm EST. The series started January 13 but previous episodes are available for viewing. Watch here. You can find the recipes in advance of the show each week on The Nosher, and you can also view them on Jewish Food Society.
Calendar
MAY
5/7
Kabbalat Shabbat with Strings Attached. (via Zoom) Unplug from a busy week with an acoustic Shabbat service led by Hazzan Howard Glantz with familiar tunes that will put a smile on your face and a song in your heart. For all ages, from babies to bubbies. Zoom in with your friends for this relaxed, casual, and enjoyable service! Please plan to join us! Zoom info: By computer: https://zoom.us/j/97054037610; By phone: Please dial 929.436.2866 or 301.715.8592; Meeting ID: 970 5403 7610 (Password required) Next Strings Attached: June 4. 6:15 PM
5/10
Yom Yerushalayim.
5/10
Robyn Orodenker Book Club. House on Endless Waters, by Emuna Elon. Please read the book before the meeting! 7:45 PM. Sponsored by AJWA Sisterhood.
5/12
Rosh Hodesh Sivan. Morning Service at 7:00 AM.
5/14
Confirmation. Join our confirmands on Zoom for Kabbalat Shabbat and celebrate their achievements. 6:15 PM
5/16
Jewish Learning Fest (Tikkun Leyl Shavuot). The Kehillah of Old York Road is organizing this year’s tikkun. You will have the ability to choose from a lineup of engaging and thought-provoking sessions. 7:00 PM to 12:00 AM. See details in the article above.
5/17
Shavuot, Day I. Shavuot morning service, including Yizkor, begins at 9:30 AM. Evening service at 7:00 PM.
5/18
Shavuot, Day II. Shavuot morning service begins at 9:30 AM. Evening service at 7:00 PM.
5/24
Board of Trustees and Directors Meeting. Via Zoom at 7:00 PM.
5/24
Yom Yerushalayim.
5/24
Rav Shai To Discuss Coherent Judaism with AJU. American Jewish University (AJU) will welcome Rav Shai (virturally) to discuss his book Coherent Judaism. The talk will begin at 2:00 PM and the cost is $18. 
5/31
Memorial Day. Morning service via Zoom at 9:00 AM.