Temple Israel Reform Congregation
of Staten Island
315 Forest Avenue
Staten Island, New York 10301
tmplisrael@aol.com
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Rabbi Michael D. Howald Student Cantor Shirel Richman
Co-Presidents Jerry Gross and Alan Siegel
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E-Shalom - FEBRUARY 2022
Temple Israel’s Electronic Bulletin
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“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. |
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NOTICE:
To All Voting Members In Good Standing of Temple Israel Reform Congregation of Staten Island
Congregational Meeting
Sunday, February 13, 2022 at 1 PM
using ZOOM technology – see link below*
[Due to Covid precautions, there is no in-person location]
The purpose of this meeting is to elect 3 members from the Congregation-at- large to serve on the Nominating Committee with 2 Trustees duly appointed by the President. The Nominating Committee will prepare the Slate of Officers & Trustees for the year 2022- 2023.
You must be present to make a nomination to the Committee and to vote for the Nominating Committee members.
The Slate of Officers & Trustees will be voted upon by the Congregation at the Annual Meeting on May 11, 2022.
Join us to be part of this important process!
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 13
1:00 P.M.
ON ZOOM
Topic: Temple Israel Congregational Meeting
Time: Feb 13, 2022 01:00 PM
Meeting ID: 889 9610 0375
Passcode: TICONG
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Dial by your location
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 646 876 9923 US (New York)
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 408 638 0968 US (San Jose)
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
Meeting ID: 889 9610 0375
Passcode: 857971
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdSaw1pvjy
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The Temple Board has updated the Temple COVID policy with respect to attending anything inside the Temple building. It now includes all events, not just services, and provides access to meetings and services for non-vaccinated attendees upon proof of a recent negative COVID test.
Proof of vaccination is required for those 12 and older, or, for the unvaccinated (regardless of medical waiver,) a negative COVID test taken within the previous 7 days.
This is effective as of Friday, September 24, 2021. In summary, the policy for admittance to the building will be:
· For entry into the Temple building for any event, adults and children over 16 must show proof of vaccination or present a negative result of a COVID test taken in the previous seven (7) days.
· All children must remain with their parents or guardians except during school classes or organized child activities.
· Masks must be worn at all times, within and outside of the building.
· Please bring your vaccination information to the door (phone app or copy of certificate.) You can also submit proof to the Temple office to expedite entry.
Thank you for your cooperation in maximizing the safety of our Congregation.
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All services during the month of February will take place via Zoom. The Links will be e-mailed to all congregants, along with the Friday night Progam, every Friday. The Zoom link for Saturday morning Torah Study and Services can be found below. (Please check weekly News and Notes and the Friday Night Program for any updates or changes.)
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Every week on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. followed by Services at 11:00 a.m.
Meeting ID: 894 4131 1190
Passcode: 981418
One tap mobile
+16465588656,,89441311190#,,,,*981418# US (New York)
+13017158592,,89441311190#,,,,*981418# US (Washington DC)
Dial by your location
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
Meeting ID: 894 4131 1190
Passcode: 981418
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**PLEASE CHECK NEWS & NOTES AND THE FRIDAY NIGHT PROGRAM E-MAILS FOR STREAMING LINKS FOR FRIDAY NIGHTS AND FOR ANY CHANGES REGARDING STREAMING AND/OR ZOOM LINKS. |
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ONLINE ACCESS TO
MISHKAN T'FILAH
Through the generosity of the Central Conference of American Rabbis, there is a free online flip-book version of our prayer book, Mishkan T'filah for Shabbat, available
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ONLINE ACCESS TO
MISHKAN T'FILAH for YOUTH
Through the generosity of the Central Conference of American Rabbis, there is a free online flip-book version of our prayer book, Mishkan T'filah for Youth, available
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A Message from
Rabbi Michael D. Howald
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Like many of you, I first heard about the hostage-taking at Beth Israel Congregation in Colleyville, Texas on Shabbat evening when the situation was still unresolved. Shortly after hearing the news through a telephone call from my younger son, Kevin, I learned that a classmate of mine from Hebrew Union College, Rabbi Charlie Citron-Walker, was one of the hostages. Charlie and his wife, Adena, were part of a very tight-knit HUC community in Israel trying to stay safe and focused on classes during the height of the Second Intifada. For months, this group of about fifty of us spent almost every waking hour together as part of the security measures put in place by HUC to keep us from harm during a time when terrorist bombings or attacks in Jerusalem were almost a weekly occurrence. Hearing that Charlie was among the hostages taken in Colleyville brought back a lot of those memories.
One of the issues we constantly discussed in Israel, and one which the attack on Beth Israel in Colleyville raises as well, was how to find the right balance between security and openness. I came to Israel hoping to freely explore the country during my time there. The whole point of requiring an initial year in Israel was, I thought, to allow us to soak up the culture of the country during the course of our studies. As a result of the ongoing terror campaign in Israel during 2001-02, however, the school required us to avoid certain areas and strongly encouraged us to limit our travel elsewhere. Most of our days, consequently, were spent with each other within the relatively safe environs of HUC’s Jerusalem campus. As a result, I never got to see large parts of the country, an omission I am still trying to remedy 20 years later.
The attack on the Colleyville synagogue, just like the previous terrorist incidents in Pittsburgh, Poway, and Monsey, raises the same question about how far we should go in pursuit of safety. Houses of worship, including synagogues, have traditionally been open to members and non-members alike to attend regular services. Before Pittsburgh, we usually left our front door unlocked on Erev Shabbat and Shabbat morning to encourage attendance. After Pittsburgh, we usually lock our door when services begin but we still admit newcomers who arrive before services start. After hearing that the attacker in Colleyville gained admission to the synagogue by playing on the empathy of a community accustomed to helping those in need, it is natural to now wonder if we need to go further in limiting access to our synagogue.
The good news is that law enforcement believes that the attacker acted alone. His own family has condemned his actions and we have no evidence that any individual or group assisted him in his plan to take hostages. When we place this attack, and the others I mentioned above, against the thousands of events and interactions that take place safely every day in the Jewish community in this country, it is important to be cautious in drawing broad conclusions about further limiting access. We clearly need to feel secure in our sanctuary, social hall, and school. Yet, we are also part of the Staten Island community and cannot entirely close ourselves off from the outside world and still remain a warm and welcoming congregation. The next few months, accordingly, are a time for a robust conversation about what further steps, if any, we should take to control access to our building. In that discussion, the tension between safety and openness will be a central consideration. I hope you all will bring your wisdom to that dialogue so that whatever decisions we reach, we will do so together. Wishing you all health and safety as we move forward into the new secular year of 2022!
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A Message from
Co-Presidents
Jerry Gross & Alan Siegel
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“Man makes plans . . . and G-d laughs.”
(Yiddish proverb)
Our ancestors got that right.
In December, all the signs were pointing to a slow but steady climb to an acceptable new normal.
But, practically at the same time the Internet delivered E-Shalom to your inbox, the number of Omicron incidents accelerated into a surge. Two days after the ball dropped in Times Square, your Executive Board evaluated the situation and, with a heavy heart, suspended all on-site activities.
At the end of January, the Executive Board gathered the leadership of Temple who were most involved in on-site activity in an emergency session. We heard the concern of our usual Shabbat attendees about the ease of transmission, looked at the dropping infection rates and the need to provide consistent guidance for the month. As optimistic as we wanted to be, it was clear where the safest path lay, so it was decided that, with a few exceptions, we would continue to shift most activity offsite in February.
Hopefully, March 4 will be a big welcome back Oneg. We are encouraged that our sense of community remains strong. Two of the last Zoom Shabbats in January had over 50 people attend, and Sisterhood had a good turnout at their meeting as well.
Stay strong and safe.
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Jerry and Alan
Jerry Gross
Alan Siegel
Co-Presidents
P.S. On February 13 at 1 PM, there will be a Zoom Congregational meeting to select members at large for the nominating committee. Their guidance will set the tone for the next year at Temple Israel – please be sure log on to the meeting.
Here are the links to the Zoom meeting:
or Meeting ID: 889 9610 0375
Passcode: TICONG (case sensitive)
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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.
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Dear Temple Israel,
There is a tradition in Hasidic thought which teaches that there is a spark of holiness in everything. Rebbe Nachman of Breslov invites us to search for that spark in others and in ourselves. Rabbi Dov Baer, the Maggid of Mezeritch, elevates the practice as he directs us that this spark exists even in inanimate objects, in actions, and in circumstances with traces of divinity.
The past two years have been difficult for finding divinity. Covid 19 has brought suffering, loss, and lack of stability to each of us as individuals, to Temple Israel, and to all the other institutions that we treasure. The hostage situation at the temple in Colleyville, Texas, has added fear and real concern into many of our communal conversations.
And yet, in some ways, the sparks of holiness are here. All four hostages got out with no physical injury. Under the calm and brave leadership of Rabbi Charlie Cytron-Walker and the great work of the local law enforcement, the event ended with the best possible outcome. This eleven-hour standoff brought the entire worldwide Jewish community together in hopes and in prayers that the hostages would survive this terrifying situation. Other faith-communities in Colleyville stood by the synagogue in support and offered help. Our individual and communal prayers were heard.
In an inspiring sermon on Friday, January 21, 2022, Rabbi Angela Buchdahl from Central Synagogue in Manhattan did not hide her concerns but instead validated our fears. “If you are a Jew in America today and you are not feeling unsettled, you are not paying enough attention.” She inspired the Jewish community to be supported by each other and to support others. Like Moses, our great ancient leader, we become better leaders when accepting the help of others.
In these scary, confusing, and unsettling times, look around and acknowledge the sparks of holiness in others. Staying in touch with our community and supporting each other will make us stronger.
At the end of her sermon, Rabbi Buchdahl finished with some words of hope from the prophet Zechariah:
“Baruch atah Adonai, eloheinu melech ha’olam, asher asanu asirei tikvah. Blessed are you, God, who makes us captives of hope.”
For Angela Buchdahl’s sermon, click here:
Wishing you a hopeful and peaceful February!
Yours in song,
Shirel Richman
Student Cantor
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Adult Choir Rehearsals
Wednesday, February 2- TBA
Wednesday, February 16 - TBA
Junior Choir Rehearsals
Sunday, February -12 noon
Sunday, January 23-TBA
Sunday, January 30-TBA
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Jodi Siegel & Shariann Ganz
Co-Presidents
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Every few months, there is a meeting of Sisterhood Presidents with our Area Director from The WRJ Northeast District. There are about 5 or 6 synagogues represented from Manhattan, Queens and, of course, Staten Island. Our Sisterhood is not from the smallest temple in the group, and certainly not the largest. We are also not the from the wealthiest or the most needy. What we are is the most active, creative, and successful.
Each meeting focuses on a specific common challenge and each Sisterhood President is encouraged to invite other Sisterhood Officers or Committee chairs who can contribute and learn from the discussions. Cheryl Levine, one of our Vice-Presidents of Programming, joined us for a couple of meetings and impressed everyone with the innovative and interesting programs and presentations we have had over the past few years, in person and via Zoom. Sylvia Gornstein and Judy Lee, two of our Vice-Presidents of Ways and Means, “wowed the crowd” with the creativity and success of our recent fundraising programs. It’s difficult for us to not monopolize the discussion. Sisterhood of Temple Israel seems to have more successful activities than any other synagogue in our group, even the “big ones”. I am always so proud of our Sisterhood’s accomplishments. And you should be too!
The topic for the next meeting in that series will focus on Leadership Transitions and Development. I’m not sure we’re going to shine so brightly during that discussion. Although we are not the only Sisterhood (or Temple, for that matter), where this is a challenge, I do believe that this is the most pressing concern for us. And it's somethng we really haven't been too successful at cultivating!
Sisterhood’s Nominating Committee has just been formed with the task of preparing the Slate of Officers and Directors for 2022-2023. This year, for the first time in many years, they will need to nominate new co-presidents. Shariann and I will both be stepping down, after having served for the last 7 years….3 years longer than the original term limits stated in our Constitution. Additionally, they are tasked with developing new leadership by inviting those who have not yet served as officers or directors to join the Sisterhood Board. Without a new generation of leaders, our Sisterhood and our Temple will not survive.
Those of us currently in leadership positions fully appreciate and recognize the encouragement and support we received from our predecessors. We too, at one time, thought their jobs were too much for us; that we could “never do what they do”. And yet, we watched, we learned, we asked questions, we sought advice and we grew into our offices. Our role-models were (and are) still around to guide us.
I encourage everyone to accept a more active leadership role in our Sisterhood (and our Temple). I promise you, you can do it. There are so many people to help, to support, to guide, to answer, to teach. Everyone wants you to succeed, so you will.
When you get that call from the Nominating Committee, say yes!
L’Dor V’Dor,
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PLEASE NOTE THAT THE DATE OF OUR NEXT
GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
HAS BEEN CHANGED TO
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 17TH AT 7:15 P.M.
VIA ZOOM.
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Click on the icon to the right to print or download the entire Updated Sisterhood Calendar for 2021-2022.
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Please note that this calendar may not reflect very recent changes. |
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CLICK ON FLYER ABOVE TO PRINT OR DOWNLOAD. |
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THE BROTHERHOOD
Temple Israel – Reform Congregation of Staten Island
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Brotherhood continues to keep busy in the work we do for our Temple Family.
Unfortunately, we have had to take a step back and not allow in person gatherings at this time. We wish good health and happy days to our entire congregation. Hopefully, we will be able to gather in person very shortly.
We are planning ahead for our annual Purim Carnival for the children of our Religious School.
Please be on the lookout for our annual Yellow Candle Project to remember the Holocaust. Once again Brotherhood will provide the Yellow Memorial Candles for the entire congregation. Please be so kind as to offer a donation to offset the cost of this very important initiative we undertake each year.
Always know that we are here to assist in any way. If you need something done, someone to talk to or whatever it might be, please reach out and we will make sure your needs are addressed. I leave you with: stay strong, stay safe, be positive and do your best. Together we will come through this stronger.
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.
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Yours in Friendship and Brotherhood,
Jeff Ganz
President
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
FEBRUARY 2022
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MAZEL TOV TO:
THE SGAMELLURI FAMILY on the occasion of Peri Elle being called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah.
GET WELL WISHES TO:
JOE GAMORAN recovering from neck and back surgery
at Eger Rehabilitation Center;
MICHAEL HENKEN currently hospitalized;
LARRY HANIBAL, CLAIRE GUTTSMAN, JERRY GROSS, BARBARA FRIED and FRED SIMON recovering from COVID-19.
THINKING OF YOU:
AZI RICHMAN, CLAIRE BLEIMAN
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Happy February. We hope you are staying warm and safe during this frosty winter. As you know, the Executive Board, in an abundance of caution decided to return all Shabbat Services to the Zoom platform for the month of January. As this article is being written this continues into the month of February. The Services commence at their usual times (Erev Shabbat First Friday Family Service 7:00 PM, all other Fridays 7:30 PM, Saturday Morning Torah Study 10:00AM, Saturday Morning Service 11:00AM). Please be sure to look to your E-mails, messages, Temple Israel News and Notes, Facebook Page and this E-Shalom Bulletin for any changes or additional information that becomes available.
We are so happy to have Student Cantor Shirel Richman and Lincoln Richman back with us starting with the Erev Shabbat Service of December 31st on Zoom. We thank them, Rabbi Howald, the Temple Adult Choir and Congregants for the special Shabbat Service on Friday January 14th which incorporated the observance of Shabbat Shira, Shabbat Tzedek and Tu B’Shevat with the Torah chanting of the Song of the Sea, special prayers, readings and song. Thank you to all who participated.
We congratulate Peri Elle Sgambelluri and her Family on Peri becoming a Bat Mitzvah on January 15th at the only in-person Service in January which was also streamed.
We look forward via Zoom to the “Shabbat Shalom Dinner from Home” on Friday February 25th at 6:00 PM organized by Temple Israel’s Membership Committee. You will find more information elsewhere in this Bulletin. Be sure to make your reservations. Further, Purim will be observed on Wednesday evening March 16th with Megillah reading and a Purim Spiel written by Rabbi Howald. Passover will begin on Friday evening April 15th at 6:00 PM with “The Jennifer Straniere Memorial Community Seder” organized by Sisterhood. More information can be found on the flyer in this bulletin.
We hope to be able to see you in person soon. Until then it will be on Zoom.
Linda Brill and Jeffrey Ganz
Co-Chairpersons
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We thank the following congregants who have graciously accepted the honors of candle lighting and Motzi at Erev Shabbat Services in January:
Ira Gershansky, Libby Gershansky, Sam Gornstein, Silvia Gornstein, Claire Guttsman, Dennis Guttsman,
Stephanie Sgambelluri and Perri Sgambelluri
Nina Rohan
Ushering Chair
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February 4, 2022
Harriet Bogart
Emma Greenwald *
Miriam Lavender
Gussie Siegel *
Hersh Blumin *
Max Dichter *
Abigail Wolchok
Dr. David Silverman *
Maurice Silverman
Kalman Weis
Martha Leef
Rabbi Marcus Kramer *
Alexander Meltser
Harry Nison
Caroline Stern *
Robert Henken
Harvey I. Sonnenblick
Stanley Waldman *
And we remember from the Holocaust:
Hana Weiner
Michal Biberman
Ernst Settgast
Josef Aladjem
Pepi Groszman
February 11, 2022
Richard Diamond *
Milton Feigelman
Solomon Eugene Hirsh *
Hela Mydlarz
Ricci Robert
Bessie Bleiman
Edward C. Frey, Jr
Maurice Quartin *
Marie Dub *
Irving Blackman
Solomon Feldman
Minnie Harris
Rose Soren Jablon *
Anita Jurikson
Ruth Tiger
Joseph R. Carlton *
Eleanor Goldberg
Morris Lewis
Howard Rosenblum *
Milton Weiss
Max Yanowitz *
Charles Baver *
Rosella Cohen
Barbara Freedman
Josie Machol *
Simon Schwartz *
And we remember from the Holocaust:
Erno Jozsa
Georg Piacek
Fani Perlman
Ernest Zehnacker
Józef Szydlowski
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February 18, 2022
Gerald Silberlight
Joseph Andrews
Bella Leder
Abraham Lipson *
Tillie Yanowitz *
Robert Harper
Isabelle Slamow
Allan Weissglass
Paul Jurikson
Dr. David Machol *
Evelina Shapiro
Leonard Winer *
And we remember from the Holocaust:
Gentija Gildingoriu
Mieczyalow Majecki
Shmuel Muenzer
Abram Guza
Emil Schwarz
February 22, 2022
Nancy Kerstein
Jerome Fried *
Esther Grossman *
Walter Hanibal
Jacob Rabin *
Freda Rosenblum *
Amy Smith
Charles Kaner
Dorothy Siegel *
Marcus Soloff *
Morris Heitowit *
Anna Rodale
Joseph Sitler
Thomas McGowan
Ruth Mulnick
Barney Sher *
And we remember from the Holocaust:
Ignatz Fokschaner
Siegfried Herz
Haia Tennenhaus
René Blieck
Lea Strassmann
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* These names are on our Memorial Wall.
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About the Weekly Yahrzeit List... |
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It has come to our attention that there is some confusion about who is listed on the Yahrzeit List each Shabbat. The list consists of three parts.
The first part is only read when there has been a recent death in the congregational family, and is introduced by “….recently taken from our midst.” In this section, we list congregants who have passed away, or the seven closest family members of a congregant as defined by those for whom a mourner is traditionally obligated to sit shiva: spouse, mother, father, sister, brother, son or daughter. These names are included weekly for the month after their funeral.
The second part of the list is preceded by the phrase “We recall the names of our loved ones whose Yahrzeit is observed this week” and it consists of those whose yahrzeits (death anniversary) fall from Saturday to the next Friday. These names come from the compilation of names of people our congregants have submitted that they wish to remember annually on either the Hebrew or Gregorian anniversary of their passing. It is not limited to family members outlined above and can include grandparents, in-laws or others of significance to you. You have the opportunity to add names every year with the papers that come with the renewal of your annual commitment. You can also add names at any time by writing to the Temple Office. These names are kept from year to year. Those who have had a memorial plaque dedicated to their name will be read each year regardless of your membership status.
The third part of the list contains the name of several Holocaust victims from the list we have obtained from Yad Vashem as of way of remembering those who have no one to say Kaddish for them
As you may have noticed, after Rabbi has finished reading the Yahrzeit List, he invites Service attendees to offer additional names for any period of mourning. This is an opportunity to mention anyone important to you.
Please be aware that the second and third part of the weekly Yahrzeit List are printed in E-Shalom each month. Also, you will receive a letter from Rabbi prior to the Yahrzeit that the name will be read on an upcoming Shabbat and a reminder when to light a Yahrzeit candle if that is your practice. You can also make a donation in your loved one’s memory in the Shabbat program the week his or her name is read.
If you have any further questions about the weekly Yahrzeit List, please feel free to reach out to us through the Temple office.
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We are sorry if your name was inadvertently omitted. Please contact John at the Temple Office to update your membership information. |
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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.
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Erev Shabbat Services
Friday, February 4
Celebration of February
Birthdays & Anniversaries
FAMILY SHABBAT SERVICE
Service at 7:00 p.m.
via Zoom
_________
Friday, February 11
Service at 7:30 p.m.
via Zoom
_________
Friday, February 18
Service at 7:30 p.m.
via Zoom
_________
Friday, February 25
Service at 7:30 p.m.
via Zoom
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SATURDAY MORNING SHABBAT SERVICES
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Torah Study and Shabbat Services
Saturdays at 10:00 a.m.
Via ZOOM
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While our school seamlessly pivoted to virtual learning last month, we are excited to see each other back in-person this month!
This month's Parents' Committee meeting will take place via Zoom on Wednesday, February 9th at 7:30pm. We will be planning for spring holiday celebrations and activities and we look forward to having all families' input.
See you soon!
Felicia Otto
Parents' Committee Chair
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Become part of our community by participating in our community. Temple Israel is where community happens.
Welcome to new members Michelle & Eugene Shagenov and Oren & Daniel.
Welcome back to rejoining members Joyce & Mel Kaplan.
We are proud to see our congregation growing and look forward to greeting everyone in person soon.
Once again the Membership Committee is planning a Shabbat at Home Dinner, with break out Zoom table groups and services following on Zoom. The date is Friday, February 25th. The deadline for your orders to be received is February 16th. We hope that our Temple Israel South family will order their own dinners and join us virtually as well.
See flyer following this article.
We look forward to welcoming in the joy and sweetness of Shabbat together.
We are working on additional ideas for in person gatherings. Watch this space for more information.
Learn- Pray-Eat-Sing and Schmooze with us!
Our community offers everything from worship to family engagement to adult learning to opportunities to engage in social justice. If you know of anyone who is interested in joining our Temple, please have them contact the Membership Committee through the Temple Office.
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CLICK ON FLYER ABOVE TO PRINT OR DOWNLOAD. |
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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!
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Temple Israel Sisterhood Judaica Shop
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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.
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Some featured Judaica Shop items this month: |
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Contact Blanche Ricci at branchtr.ricci@gmail.com
if you are interested in any Judaica Shop items.
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Dear Temple Israel Family,
Purim in coming! This year our Purim Spiel, based on the Book of Esther, will draw on the successful Apple TV show, Ted Lasso for its plot and character development.
As you will discover when you participate, this play is not a musical and is more dialogue heavy than in past years. As a consequence, we are encouraging adults as well as students to take part in our spiel this year. We have a limited number of parts so, if you are interested, please let me know as soon as possible, and we will send you a copy of the script. To volunteer or review the script, contact Rabbi Howald immediately at MDHOWALD@GMAIL.COM
Since I will be directing the spiel this year, the rehearsals will take place on Sunday evenings at 7 pm, beginning on January 30th and continuing through March 13th. Our rehearsals will initially be on Zoom with the possibility, pandemic permitting, of moving to in-person rehearsals.
It's our hope we will be able to present our spiel in-person on the evening of Wednesday, March 16th..
I look forward to hearing from you!
Rabbi
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The Library is ready to reopen. New acquisitions have been shelved.
There are a lot of new books for young children.
We are accepting book donations but please limit it to Jewish content only. Please contact me through the Temple Office if you would like to make a donation.
If you wish to sign out a book, simply make note of it on the sign up sheet on the desk.
Thank you.
Steve Scher
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CLICK ON FLYER ABOVE TO PRINT OR DOWNLOAD. |
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CLICK ON FLYER ABOVE TO PRINT OR DOWNLOAD. |
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Due to the current Omicron situation,
the Avis Foundation is postponing the
FUN FRIDAY programs for 6-9 year olds,
that were scheduled to begin on 1/28 at
The Resource Room.
We will keep you posted concerning new
dates.
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Bryn Biren
Terry Baver
Avis Foundation Trustees
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The mission of the Dr. Ronald Avis Foundation for Temple Israel Reform Congregation is:
…. to provide financial support for young families seeking membership in Temple Israel, and to attract new young families by providing learning opportunities, family programming, and social justice initiatives.
We began our journey on June 27, 2017. We were shocked when we realized that will be approaching five years of planning, executing and parenting this Foundation in June, 2022. We have made every effort to include all of the children who attend our Religious school (as well as their parents) in our programming--no one has been excluded.
Our questions to YOU at this point are:
· WHAT PROGRAMMING WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE FOR YOUR CHILDREN AND YOUR FAMILY?
· WHICH PROGRAMS HAVE YOU ENJOYED AND WOULD LIKE TO SEE CONTINUED?
· WHAT NEW PROGRAMS WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE INITIATED?
· WOULD YOU LIKE TO WORK WITH US GOING FORWARD?
We need to hear from you to let us know. Hopefully our instincts have been correct so far, but we want to expand and move ahead.
We also need you, the parents of our children, to step up and work with us. You and your children are the future of our synagogue.
Temple Israel will be 75 years old in May, 2023. The leadership of our Temple should not be only individuals who are that same age.
We look forward to hearing specific suggestions from you and your offers to volunteer to work with us.
YOU are the future of Temple Israel!
Sincerely,
Bryn Biren and Terry Baver
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CLICK ON FLYER ABOVE TO PRINT OR DOWNLOAD. |
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CLICK ON FLYER ABOVE TO PRINT OR DOWNLOAD. |
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On Sunday, January 30 we Zoom to Paris to be greeted by our lovely guide, Karen Reb Rudman; our mouths watering as we enjoy Karen’s French Food Frenzy. And now we are off to our own kitchens to feel a little French!
Events to Come
Thursday, February 10, 7 PM—Book Discussion— “The Four Winds” by Kristen Hannah
An American epic about love, heroism, and hope , set in the Era of the “Dust Bowl” in the Great Plains states, during the Great Depression. To value this novel even more, watch “The Dust Bowl” by Ken Burns, a 4 hour Documentary, on PBS (by subscription). Please RSVP—Cherylmlevine@gmail.com, if you wish to attend and be sent the Zoom link.
Sunday, May 1, 2 PM—“Harmony” A new musical by Barry Manilow
This show, at The Museum of Jewish Heritage, is based on a true story. Limited tickets available—$99. Respond ASAP please, to cherylmlevine@gmail.com , if interested.
Cheryl Levine and Judith Pessah
Adult Learning Committee Co-Chairpersons
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CLICK ON FLYER ABOVE TO PRINT OR DOWNLOAD. |
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Please save the date of Saturday April 30, 2022 for a FUNdrasing event.
Details to follow shortly.
Respectfully submitted,
Rhonda Trontz-Allen, Karen Frey-Gamoran, Lissa Winchel
Co-Chairs
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NEWLY ADDED:
BUY BUY BABY TARGET & CARVEL!!!!
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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.
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Click the order forms above to print or download. |
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Beginning in February the cost of Yoga is:
Temple Israel members: $48 per month $6 per class
Non members : $10 per class
(Two people in a home pay only one fee)
Pilates classes are FREE.
Checks payable to:
Ronald Avis Temple Israel Foundation
Send monthly payment to:
Terry Baver. 30 Theresa Place. SI, NY. 10301
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Are you stressed?
Do you want to build your core strength?
Join Us.
ALL YOGA CLASSES
ARE TAKING PLACE
VIA ZOOM ON
Monday, February 7- 6:00 pm
Monday, February 14- 6:00 pm
Monday, February 21- 6:00 pm
Instructor: Denise Nizzare
ZOOM LINK FOR MONDAYS
ZOOM MEETING ID:
964 585 2910
PASSWORD:
332084
PLEASE CONTACT BRYN BIREN FOR INFORMATION.
Free for Temple Israel Members & Their Friends!
Classes are for ADULTS ONLY.
Both chair and mat students are accommodated at each class.
For more information, contact
Terry Baver at 718-490-4428 or
Bryn Biren at 718-447-6225
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As this is being written, the Senate is debating voting rights legislation.
The Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act need to advance in the Senate in order to combat voter suppression and ensure that all votes are counted and all voices are heard.
The RAC is asking us to:
1- Call our senators to once again let them know that their constituents strongly support these bills and encourage their efforts in reforming the filibuster to make this happen.
Senator Schumer- (202) 224-6542
Senator Gillibrand- (202) 224-4451
2- Sign the petition to urge President Biden to do everything in his power to protect our democracy.
The campaign to protect voting rights will continue regardless of the decisions reached in Washington, D.C. Keeping up the pressure is important and working locally to make sure that all of our family members and friends are aware of when and how to vote, both in the Primary and in the November General Election, will also be critical.
Stay up-to-date with the RAC and see how your actions can make a difference. Keep in touch with the latest updates from The RAC here- https://rac.org
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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
- Confirmation Fund
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Estelle A. Gootenberg Memorial Fund (for Torah Repair/ Restoration)
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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
- Rabbi Michael D. Howald Fund for Social Action and Tikkun Olam
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...
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CLICK ON THIS ICON TO TAKE YOU THERE! |
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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.
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CONTACT INFORMATION
718-727-2231
tmplisrael@aol.com
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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.
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