Temple Israel Reform Congregation of Staten Island
315 Forest Avenue
Staten Island, New York 10301
tmplisrael@aol.com
‌
Rabbi Michael D. Howald                     Student Cantor Shirel Richman
Co-Presidents Jerry Gross and Alan Siegel
E-Shalom - AUGUST 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.
Many of our usual Temple activities have now become virtual. Please join us for any or all of the following Shabbat services and Torah Study sessions, Tisha B'Av Service & Study, or Sisterhood Gatherings by simply clicking on the links in the purple boxes at the posted times. All sessions will take place using Zoom. Links are also posted on in weekly News and Notes. If you wish to call into these meetings, the phone numbers for audio access are also listed. *Please note that some of the meetings may require that you inlcude the listed password.
Friday, August 7 at 7 p.m.
All other weeks on Friday at 8 p.m.
Dial by your location
   +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
    +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
    +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)
    +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
    +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
    +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
Meeting ID: 947 946 323
Passcode: 947053
Find your local number:  https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kiTgwLeuU
Every week on Saturday at 10:00 a.m.
   Dial by your location
 1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
    +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)
    +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
    +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
    +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
    +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
Meeting ID: 614 246 852
Passcode: 549042
Find your local number:  https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kbBPyZ5AGn
(Please take note of specific dates for August and new Passcode)
MONDAYS AT 10:00 a.m.
AUGUST 10 & 24
Dial by your location
    +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
    +1 408 638 0968 US (San Jose)
    +1 646 876 9923 US (New York)
    +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
    +1 253 215 8782 US
    +1 301 715 8592 US
    +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
Meeting ID: 956 716 667
Passcode: 025972
(Please take note of specific dates for August and new Passcode)
THURSDAYS AT 7:30 p.m.
AUGUST 6 & 20
Dial by your location
    +1 408 638 0968 US (San Jose)
    +1 646 876 9923 US (New York)
    +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
    +1 253 215 8782 US
    +1 301 715 8592 US
    +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
    +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
Meeting ID: 255 299 887
Passode: 052087
WEDNESDAY JULY 29th AT 7:30 p.m.
Meeting ID: 865 8389 5631
Passcode: 317941
Dial by your location
    +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
    +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
    +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)
    +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
    +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
    +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)

ONLINE ACCESS TO
MISHKAN TEFILAH

Through the generosity of the Central Conference of American Rabbis, there is a free online version of our prayer book, Mishkan Tefilah for Shabbat, available 
A Message from
Rabbi Michael D. Howald

The passage of time during the pandemic has been especially hard to calculate.  All the usual signposts we use to gage the course of the months and the seasons have either receded into the background against a foreground filled with daily anxiety, or we have missed them entirely during our extended time indoors. It may come as a considerable surprise, accordingly, to realize that the month of Elul, the month in the Jewish calendar that precedes the High Holy Days, begins, as I write this article, in just over a month.  This year, perhaps more than any other year in our memory, we do not know where the time flew.  How, then, shall we prepare for the rapidly upcoming Days of Awe when we can hardly account for our days, let alone our mistakes and missteps? 
         Just as this year has been different from all other years, so will the personal and collective introspection that traditionally comes with the month of Elul be different this year than ever before.  In the best of times, our reflections in advance of the High Holy Days are filled with internal bargaining.  “If I find the time, I’ll make that call.”  “When they finally apologize to me, I’ll drop that grudge.”  “When things settle down, I’ll fulfill that promise.”  The pandemic and the social and economic dislocation it has caused gives us a better excuse than ever before to put off the hard work of what our ancestors called  Chesbon HaNefesh , the individual accounting of our deeds and words in the past year that precedes the coming of the new.  We could, accordingly, decide to postpone the difficult conversations about change and forgiveness until things return to normal or we have a vaccine or a cure.
         Yet, if we are honest, we will acknowledge that change is difficult no matter the circumstances.  We often cling to the fantasy that a perfect time will come for us to forgive and be forgiven but, in truth, we know that such moments rarely come unless we have the courage make them happen.  The uncertainties of this year of pandemic may seem like a roadblock but they are also an opportunity.  In our national life, we have seen a sea-change in our ability to acknowledge the pernicious effects of systemic racism.  On a personal level, we have turned our lives upside down to pursue work and school at home and many of us have discovered (or rediscovered) the joys of home cooking and baking.  Something about this time of vulnerability and anxiety has opened our minds to new ways of thinking and doing and, it seems, made possible real changes in our perspective and behavior.  British anthropologist Victor Turner would have called our current moment, where we have left the familiar world behind and are uncertain about what lies ahead, a “liminal space” where genuine change can often take place.
           Our people have passed through many liminal spaces, from the Exodus from Egypt to the transition from a people without a home to the citizens of a Jewish sovereign state.  In the passage through this pandemic, we are not helpless.  We still can examine our choices, forgive ourselves for our failings and rise to the challenge of being a human being who can seek but never obtain perfection. This year the challenges are greater but so are possibilities of achieving lasting change.  May we, even during this time of upheaval, nevertheless find a way to open ourselves to the gifts that the upcoming month of Elul will spread before us.   

Rabbi Michael Howald     
If you have not yet sent in your reservation and wish to join us,
please contact JSiegel23@aol.com to check availablilty.
A Message from
Co-Presidents
Jerry Gross & Alan Siegel

Halfway through the Summer, and it feels like not much has changed in our new normal.  As we write this message we are hopeful that in the very near future we will be able to begin to resume our regular complement of activities which have been severely curtailed.

Throughout this difficult time, we have been able to ‘gather’ in a rather unusual manner: Zoom on-line format.  Thanks to Rabbi Howald for becoming a major factor in enabling us to share our Erev Shabbat services, Torah Study and Shabbat morning services.  Many of our congregants have taken part in these services to continue their commitments and relationships with Temple Israel.  In addition, Sisterhood has kept their members involved by means of weekly Coffee and Conversation gatherings as well as evening Happy Hours.  Each of these sessions has enabled their members to effectively interact with each other to plan for the future of their organization as it services the greater good of Temple Israel. Brotherhood also has been holding its monthly meetings to keep their members updated.  Another thank you goes out to the Fundraising Committee for planning and implementing its recent Trivia Night which proved to be a social and financial success.  And a very significant “Thank You” is extended to the Avis Foundation for Temple Israel as it continues to sponsor and encourage regular Yoga classes, and, collaborating with our Adult Learning Committee, Poetry Writing classes and a Temple-wide lecture series and other meaningful learning activities.  Also noted are the ongoing efforts of the Ritual Committee in preparation for the High Holy Days.  

And now it is time to direct our attention to the future of our Temple.  As you know, we were very fortunate to secure the placement of a new Student Cantor, Shirel Richman.  We are very pleased to welcome her to our temple family. Student Cantor Richman has begun working with Rabbi Howald to prepare for the upcoming High Holiday Services to which we anxiously look forward.  She has also been holding meetings with the Senior Choir as they also prepare.  We would like to wish her a warm welcome and look forward to a meaningful relationship.

The challenges with which our congregation has been faced are significant and continue to require a great deal of planning and attention.  Moreover, YOUR attention to the needs of our spiritual home has become even more important than ever.  By this time, each of you should have received your membership package for the coming year. We encourage you to review its contents and respond with your commitment as soon as possible.  As you can appreciate, since our physical building has been effectively shuttered for the past several months, the lack of on-site activities has put a dent in our finances.  In addition, we are preparing to enable you to participate in High Holy Day services in a remote format that will support the solemnity of the season and provide our members with a very meaningful experience.  In order to accomplish this massive effort, we need your help.  Please keep up to date with the information you will be receiving via News and Notes and in this and future editions of our Bulletin.  With your on-going support and assistance, we look forward to continued success.

We wish you a safe and healthy balance of this year’s very strange Summer.


 Jerry & Alan
 Jerrold Gross and Alan Siegel
Co-Presidents   
Dear Temple Israel,
 
In these unprecedented times, we all feel isolated, detached from one another, and we all miss our community, our routines and our Temple Israel building. These days, I am thinking about my near future in Temple Israel, co-leading weekly services online and preparing our High Holidays (HHD) experience.
 
Rabbi Howald is a great resource and already a valuable mentor for me. We are having long conversations about our new online reality. I am also making it a priority to educate myself and stay updated about online services through the Reform movement. Through professional webinars of the American Conference of Cantors (ACC), Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR), and of course my professors at Hebrew Union College (HUC) we are all learning from each other and supporting each other as a community.
 
Different times bring challenges and anxiety, but also call for re-examining our values, asking essential questions about what is important for us as a congregation, how we can keep our traditions and be creative in our new reality. We are trying to maintain the sense of awe and grandeur that we look forward to every year during the HHD, but at the same time, looking to be creative, flexible and open minded in these circumstances. Our building might be unavailable to us these HHD, but we are working together to build our sacred space – this time, a virtual sacred space.
 
The first sacred space in our Jewish history was the Tabernacle, or the  Mishkan . Since the children of Israel were nomads in the desert, the  Mishkan  had to be portable, fit for the reality of life in the desert, but at the same time inspire a sense of awe and grandeur.
 
In Exodus 35:4-11 and 21 we read: “This is what the Lord has commanded: Take from among you gifts to the Lord; everyone whose heart so moves him shall bring them… And let all among you who are skilled come and make all that the Lord has commanded: the Tabernacle… And everyone who excelled in ability and everyone whose spirit moved him came, bringing to the Lord his offering for the Tent of Meeting [the Tabernacle] and for all its service and for the sacral vestments.”
 
In these few verses we learn a lot about the process of building the  Mishkan.  First of all, the children of Israel were not obligated to contribute to its creation, only “everyone whose heart so moves him.” Or in other words – volunteers. We also learn that the people’s contributions were different from each other. Some provided gifts, some brought their skills and some brought their abilities (or talents). 

Our new  Mishkan  is a virtual  Mishkan  and we are working hard to build it together. 
 
In the past few weeks I was so excited to see many of Temple Israel’s members’ hearts “being moved” in helping to build our new  Mishkan . Our volunteer choir members are rising to the challenge in this online reality and are learning how to record music videos. Since communal singing is not possible online, the choir realized together that their role this year is more important than ever. The choir will be providing the only communal singing at the services. 
 
I just attended my first meeting of the Ritual Committee. It was exciting to see how everyone was trying to work together combining skills like leadership, planning, brainstorming together and executing ideas to make this all happen, and providing the best experience of the HHD in our new reality.
 
I feel honored and humbled to lead my first High Holidays Services as a student cantor at Temple Israel in a time that will definitely be remembered in history. I am moved by Temple Israel’s committee members who are thinking creatively about planning a sacred space for the community. I am excited about working with Temple Israel’s choir singers who are being challenged weekly and are committed to being the worship voice of our community.
 
I would like to invite you all to join and be part of this challenging, creative and rewarding process! Let us all stay connected with each other in new and exciting ways.
 
B’shira,
Shirel Richman
Student Cantor
Jodi Siegel & Shariann Ganz
Co-Presidents
Sisterhood is planning ahead, as usual.  At our recent planning meeting we added all our annual activities, events and traditions to the calendar.  We are resilient and flexible.  If we have to adjust the way we have our meetings, hold our fundraisers or continue our ritual events, we have no doubt that we will be able to come up with wonderful, creative solutions-- just the way we have managed to make them happen over the past few months.  We are hopeful that we will be able to gather in person more often in the coming months.  We are hopeful that we will be able to engage our membership, continue to offer new programs and welcome new members along with new ideas.  If you have a suggestion for a program or activity, please don’t hesitate to let us know!

In the meantime, please continue to support Sisterhood with your membership dues, your participation in our Community New Year’s Card and Honey Gift Bag Program, and with your contributions.  It is more important than ever that we stay strong!

For the month of August, we are cutting down on the number of weekly Zoom events we are sponsoring, but we are looking forward to having those of you who are comfortable with being around others (who will, of course, be practicing safe social distancing procedures), join us for an in-person picnic in the park later this month.
Please take note of Sisterhood’s August Calendar so that you are aware of our new schedule.
Wishing you all a safe, healthy and pleasant August!
Jodi Siegel & Shariann Ganz
Co-Presidents
THE BROTHERHOOD
Temple Israel – Reform Congregation of Staten Island
Hello Everyone.

I hope this finds everyone well and enjoying the summer months as best as we possibly could. Brotherhood is actively planning for the coming year. We will hold our next meeting via Zoom on August 17 th  at 7:30P.M. I hope everyone can set some time aside to catch up and have a friendly chat.

As we move through the summer months and the city moves into the next phase of reopening we as a congregation are planning some limited outdoor Shabbat services .There will be one that took place in July and another planned for August. These will take place as long as the city meets the criteria to be able to do so. With that in mind please keep in mind that it is our intentions right now to have the Sukkah put up in the fall. As we move forward with the greatest of caution please be on the lookout for coming events. During these trying and unprecedented times we know we can always count on Rabbi for his spirituality, guidance and knowledge to lift up our feelings.

At this time all events and meetings for the Brotherhood are being cancelled. Hopefully we will all be able to come together soon and experience the friendship and camaraderie that we so much look forward to.

It is very important to keep the work of Brotherhood going strong as we navigate these unprecedented times. With that in mind I am asking each and every Male member to please consider joining Brotherhood.  The dues are only $45. Now more than ever we need your support. I would like to thank those members who have already made their commitment for the coming year. I sincerely thank you.

During these changing times always know that we are there 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. Until we can enjoy our personal interaction 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.
Your in Friendship and Brotherhood,
Jeff Ganz
President

CALENDAR OF EVENTS
AUGUST 2020
ADDITIONAL AUGUST DATES FOR CIVIC ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE MEETINGS:
Tuesday, August 4 and Tuesday, August 25
(Zoom Links will be forwarded to committee members)

  MAZEL TOV TO:
ELIZABETH & JOEL TANZER & family  on the birth of their granddaughter, Sadie Iris Feuer; 
DAVID SORKIN & family  on his retirement as CEO of the Staten Island JCC;  
IRIS HERSHENSON & JAIMIE BLACKMAN  on the birth of their granddaughter, Clara Angelica Blackman to their son, Joshua Blackman and Militza M. Franco

CONDOLENCES TO:  
The ROHAN FAMILY on the loss of NINA’s mother,
MURIEL P. SCHWARTZ ;
Former member SUSAN ROSCH & family on the loss of her husband.  STEVE ROSCH; 
Cara Gross (daughter-in-law of  KAREN & JERRY GROSS ) and family   on the loss of her mother, Susan Scherker


GET WELL WISHES TO:  
KAREN GROSS  recovering from eye surgery; 
JEFF GANZ  recovering from recent surgery;
JUDITH PESSAH recovering from cataract surgery.

THINKING OF YOU:
SUE WEINMAN, DAVID MELTZER, DR. ALICIA BASKIN,
PAMELA CARLTON, DR. KEN PICKOVER, CLAIRE BLEIMAN
 and to all our members impacted by the coronavirus.



Dear Congregants,

The 2020-2021 Membership Packets have been mailed out and, by now, you should have received yours. If you have not received your package please call the office and we will send another one to you.

Now that you have your packet, please take a moment to go over everything. We have made some changes in the forms, hopefully making everything easier. Please review all the information in your packet carefully and provide us with an missing information by filling in those areas.

If you have any questions about your commitment please email me at  tmplisrfinsec@aol.com  and I will contact you so that we can review everything. I am here to help you solve any issues.  

Please do not forget to complete all the school forms for your children who attend Religious/Hebrew school.  

Sisterhood and Brotherhood dues require separate checks payable directly to those affiliate organizations.

If you are sending in post-dated checks please make sure all the checks are dated the 15th of the month and that the last check is dated no later than June 15, 2021 . June is the end of our fiscal year and all commitments should be complete before the end of the month.

We urge you to think about upgrading your membership by becoming a member of the Kavod Society. If you are already a member please consider moving up a category.

Jennifer Straniere
Financial Secretary













As we write this article for the August Bulletin, New York City is about to enter Phase 4 of the reopening, albeit without the opening of indoor dinning, museums and movies.    We are still experiencing a challenging time.  Temple Leaders, Rabbi Howald and the Ritual Committee continue to investigate how and where we can pray during these summer and upcoming fall months.  Your responses to our survey indicated that for those who responded you are split almost evenly between the desire to pray remotely and the desire to return to the sanctuary.  A tentative (weather permitting) in person Erev Shabbat Service outdoors on the patio was scheduled for July 24 th  at 6:30 PM with reservations and limited attendance, social distancing, masks, hand sanitizer and waiver forms required.  The Service was to be recorded and the recording played back at the usual 8:00 PM time for those who did not attend.  Unfortunately,
the weather did not cooperate and our Erev Shabbat Service that evening took place on Zoom as (has become) usual.

As for the High Holy Days, it appears that, as it is not possible to socially distance appropriately, it is likely that much of our Services will be online, possibly partially recorded and partially in person.  When final decisions are made you will be the first to know.

You have received information by mail about the annual Memory Book that is traditionally distributed during the Yizkor Service on Yom Kippur afternoon.  This year it is likely to be delivered on-line.  The Memory Book is an opportunity to remember family and friends.  To participate in the Memory Book please follow the instructions provided in the mailing and return immediately to the Temple Office in the envelope provided.

Should you wish to order your own copy of the two-volume prayer book for the High Holy Days Mishkan HaNefesh to have at home, it can be ordered in different ways.  Please see the
“WAYS TO ACCESS HIGH HOLIDAY PRAYERBOOKS AT HOME"
section following this article.

In the meantime, we continue to be grateful for the ways Temple Israel has been able to keep us spiritually, emotionally and prayerfully connected using the Zoom platform.  During the month of July, we were particularly grateful for Rabbi Howald, congregants Jim Rohan and Jaimie Blackman and the Temple leadership for continuing to provide “virtual” Erev Shabbat Services, Torah Study and Shabbat Morning Services.

And we continue to encourage parents with their children to join our “virtual” Family Service on the first Friday of the month, that Service remains at the 7:00 PM start time.  The “virtual” Family Service for August is on Friday August 7 th .  The remainder of the” “virtual” Erev Shabbat Services are at 8:00 PM.  “Virtual” Torah Study begins at 10:00 AM on Saturday mornings and “virtual” Shabbat Services follow at 11:00 AM.  We note there is a second outdoor in person Erev Shabbbat Service (weather permitting) scheduled for August 14 th  at 6:30 PM with the same requirements noted above.  It is again to be recorded and played back on Zoom at the usual 8:00 PM time.

On Wednesday evening July 29 th  Rabbi Howald led a Tisha B’ Av learning session over Zoom.

Please look to your e-mails, messages, Temple Israel News & Notes, Temple Israel’s Facebook page, and this E-Shalom Bulletin for additional information about the special Service and study opportunities in the month of August.

Please stay safe and healthy.  

Linda Brill and Jeffrey Ganz
Co-Chairpersons
WAYS TO ACCESS HIGH HOLIDAY PRAYERBOOKS AT HOME
If you would like to order your own copy of the two-volume prayer book for the high holy days,
Mishkan NaNefesh, you can order the set from the CCAR Press online at this link:
The regular price for the set is $44.
For a limited time, CCAR is offering a special discount of 20% on the print edition of the books. To get the discount, enter coed  MHN2020  during checkout. 

******************
Amazon is offering the books in a digital version for Kindle for $9.99 per volume. You can find the Kindle volumes at this link:

******************
Finally, the CCAR is offering free access to both volumes in a “flipbook” online version which can be viewed on a computer.
Access is through the following page: 
Tisha B'Av, observed on the 9th ( tisha ) of the Hebrew month of Av, is a day of mourning the destruction of both ancient Temples in Jerusalem. Liberal Judaism never has assigned a central religious role to the ancient Temple, so mourning the destruction of the Temple may not be particularly meaningful to liberal Jews. In modern times, many Jews understand Tisha B'Av as a day to remember many tragedies that have befallen the Jewish people throughout history, and to reflect on the suffering that still occurs in our world.

Customarily, Tisha B'Av is a time set aside for fasting and mourning. As on  Yom Kippur , the fast extends from sundown until the following sundown. In the synagogue, the Book of  Eichah  (Lamentations) is chanted, as are  kinot , which are dirges written during the Middle Ages. Sitting on low stools, a custom associated with mourning the dead, Jews read sections of the books of Jeremiah and Job, as well as passages from the Bible and the Talmud that deal with the Temples' destructions in 586 B.C.E. and 70 C.E.
Some Jewish communities begin a period of semi-mourning three weeks before Tisha B’Av, on the 17th of the Hebrew month of Tammuz. It was supposedly on this day in 586 B.C.E. that the Babylonians first made an incursion into the Temple in Jerusalem. Beginning on this date, Jews who observe this custom refrain from holding weddings and festive celebrations or cutting their hair. The mourning intensifies on the first of Av, with no meat or wine consumed, no new clothing purchased, and no shaving allowed. On the evening before Tishah B’Av, a 24-hour fast begins, and in synagogue services, the Book of Lamentations is chanted. When Tisha B’Av falls on Shabbat, its observance begins after Shabbat ends and extends into the next day.

For most liberal Jews, Tisha B'Av has faded in importance as a ritual observance, as the rebuilding of a central Temple in Jerusalem has lost its priority and significance in modern times. Although historians dispute the fact that both Temples were destroyed on this day, Tisha B’Av has become a symbol of Jewish suffering and loss. Over the centuries, other tragic events have come to be commemorated on this day, including the brutal massacres of the Crusades, the Jewish expulsion from Spain, and the Holocaust.
Please join us on July 29th at 7:30 p.m. for
EREV TISHA B’AV SERVICES AND STUDY SESSION
Led by Rabbi Howald
via

Meeting ID: 865 8389 5631
Passcode: 317941
Dial by your location
    +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
    +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
    +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)
    +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
    +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
    +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)

Rabbi Howald will be also presenting during the JCC’s Commemoration of Tisha B’Av
at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 30th.
August 7, 2020
Shimonov Mashiach
Yetta Weiss *
Jimmy Smith
Stella Blumin *
Jean Baruch *
Stanley Schuster
Augusta Straniere *
Marion Cohen
Emanuel Trachman *
Lila Avis *
Celia Holtz *

And we remember from the Holocaust:
Walter  Gutmann 
Willem  Velleman
Kazimierz  Suski
Samuel  Leipnik 
Eduard  Toedheide


August 14, 2020
Isadore Marks Dumont
Alter Pisetzner
Claire Eisen *
Augusta Levinson
Harriet Taylor
Lewis Dickar *
Rose Jaeger *
Vernon Scholar *
Gertrude Sappin *

And we remember from the Holocaust:
Gretel  Goldmann
Narcyz  Kalicki 
Kurt  Schüller 
Vinzenz  Cichowski 
Pieter  Sloos



August 21, 2020
Fannie Feldhamer *
Louis Friedburg
Cynthia Roiter
Bella Bronzaft
Renee Nadel
Celia Holtz *
Audrey Lasher *
Max Baskin
Solomon Jacob Gross *
Mina Dashman Katz *
Joseph Silberberg

And we remember from the Holocaust:
Jakab Altmann
Rosa Strauss
Franz Korbut
Lucjan Dudkiewicz
Dezso Veszi


August 28, 2020
Jack Kleinman *
Bertram Bleiman
Emil Checchi
Royal Slamow *
Sidney Wolchok
Louis Henken
John David Muhlfelder *
Eva Benjamin *
Vera Armstrong
Lena Goldberg *
Sarah Miriam Gross *
Mary Krisburg *
Rose Lippman
Sylvia Chazanoff
Mary Freedman
Evelyn Ruth Konigsberg *
Louis Schlefstein *
Norman Sorkin

And we remember from the Holocaust:
Hana Hajt
Henri Nouque
Wilhelm Szafarczyk
Jean Plumet
Albert De Bock
* 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.
As soon as we are able to celebrate Shabbat together
in person at Temple Israel,
we will celebrate all the Birthdays and Anniversaries that we missed at a very special Oneg!

In the meantime,
we appreciate you sending in your contributions toward these wonderful Onegs!
balloons_happy_bday.jpg
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. 
Erev Shabbat Services

Friday,
August 7
7:00 p.m. via ZOOM

Friday,August 14
6:30 p.m.
Live on the Patio at Temple Israel
(Reservations Required.
Information will be e-mailed
prior to the date.)

All other Fridays
8:00 p.m.
Via ZOOM
Torah Study and Shabbat Services
Saturdays at 10:00 a.m.
Via ZOOM
Every Voice, Every Vote.
  The Reform Movement's
2020 Civic Engagement Campaign
The Civic Engagement Committee at Temple Israel has been calling our congregants to make sure that everyone has the necessary information to prepare to vote on November 3 rd .  

Let’s all commit to making TEMPLE ISRAEL a 100% VOTING   CONGREGATION.

The response to the calls has been very positive and the committee appreciates the opportunity to chat with you. We will be calling again with additional reminders and follow-up information.

Here are some key points again.
  •  If you or a young adult in your household or in your family is voting for the first time and needs to register, here is the procedure:
b .       Choose  Register to Vote  from the menu
c .       Scroll to  New York State Voter Registration Form
d .       Click on  Complete English Form Online (or Spanish
Form if needed)
e .       Complete form online and Print
f .        Sign form (** YOUR ACTUAL SIGNATURE WILL BE
NECESSARY-NOT AN ONLINE SIGNATURE)

  • If you need to apply for an absentee ballot do the following:
b.       Select  Absentee Voting  from the menu
c.       Go  to  How to Vote by Absentee Ballot
d.       Click on  Download English Form (or Spanish Form if necessary)
e.       Complete form online and PRINT
f.        Sign form (** YOUR ACTUAL SIGNATURE WILL BE
NECESSARY-NOT AN ONLINE SIGNATURE)

Mail the SIGNED and COMPLETED forms to:
Richmond County Board of Elections
1 Edgewater Plaza- 4 th  Floor
Staten Island, NY 10305
Become part of our community by participating in our community. Temple Israel is where community happens.

** TI-   WIIFM (Temple Israel-What’s In It For Me?) 
          Last month, we published some of the poetry that our congregants wrote as part of a series of poetry writing workshops with the poet laureate of Staten Island, Marguerite Rivas, sponsored by the Avis Foundation.  The response was so positive that we decided to publish a second round as an August summer treat and as a distraction from our current situation.
Our committee is working on some ideas for some  together but apart  Shabbat Shalom Dinners. We will keep you posted as plans are put in place.
            For now, enjoy the poetry that follows.

Stay strong, stay well, and stay in touch. Zoom with us until we can meet face to face again.
Hazak Hazak V’Nit Hazek- Be strong, be strong and let us be strengthened  (together).

THE MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE MEETING
ON TUESDAY, JUNE 28th
will begin at 8:30 p.m.
via Zoom
(originally scheduled for 8:00 p.m.)
IF
By Bryn Biren

If I feel anxious when I must face something new
If I feel cranky and don’t want to deal with it
If I would like someone else to handle the situation for me,
Does that mean that something is wrong with me?
If I get something new, but then I don’t want to use it
If I rush to get things for others, but hesitate for myself
If I hesitate to try something new for fear that I might look foolish
Does that show weakness of character?

I know in my mind, techniques I’ve been taught
To deal with annoyance, when things do go wrong
To let them flow past me,
Like an endless ticker tape of words. 

If I work through these issues and take a deep breath
If I tense and release till my muscles go limp
If I say “NEXT” to issues that appear new each day
Will I find peace of mind, will anxiety go away? 

A Passover Home Run –
April 8, 1974
By Libby Gershansky

My Dad, a big baseball buff,
savored the delicious delights of 
chicken soup and fluffy matzoh balls,
as major league baseball was on everyone’s mind.

We, two, young newlyweds,
were testing our culinary competency
in our sparsely furnished nest.

Will Elijah help us
to understand life’s perplexities?
Will heaven and earth unite
to ensure the success 
of a brave, Atlanta Braves batter
named Hammerin’ Henry Hank Aaron?

The black and white TV crackles.
We cut our brisket
and marvel at the myron tzimmis.
It’s the fourth inning. We’re glued to the screen.

Is it up to Elijah to decide the fate
of this faithful crowd?
Will there be joy or racial divide?

The pitch-from Al Downing;
the bat smacks against the ball-
A HOME RUN-#715.
Babe’s record is broken.
The fans cheer.
Aaron’s parents run onto the field.

Let us now open the door for Elijah.
Next year in Jerusalem
and in Cooperstown and in ball fields everywhere.
Next year may we all be free.
Next year may we all live in peace and harmony.
83 Muttontown Road
By Judy A. Lee

The Great Northeast Blackout occurred on November 9, 1965.
I was 11 and in the 6 th  grade.
In Tuesday afternoon Hebrew School
North Shore Synagogue in Syosset, NY
When the lights dimmed, we went to the Social Hall
We were confused, puzzled, and hoping that school would end early.
One teacher kept repeating himself about how Abraham Lincoln studied by the warm glow of the fireplace.
He was annoying.
The principal kept asking me when my mother was coming to pick me up.
My mother hated driving at night and my carpool was on the way.
We were picked up in the bright silver filled moonlight.
My mother, by candle and flashlight, casting a mysterious shadow, made us peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
And waited anxiously for my father to call.
When he called, he assured us that he was fine.
He had to sleep on the couch in his office in NYC.
He didn’t know there was a party a floor below him until the following day.
I tried really hard to study by candles and flashlights.
I tried to listen to the transistor radio, but it was too distracting.
Eventually I went to sleep, starring into the empty eerie, silent space, wondering when the lights would return.
The next day, by 7:00AM, it was over.
Life resumed with the lights on.
Under African Skies (Bop)
by Jack M. Freedman

Unsure of backdrops of paternal lines
Too many unknown DNA structures
While 23andMe has filled the gaps
I’m long for rituals and traditions
Grandparents were satsangi and vegans
Fusion of Judaism and Hindu

Under African Skies

Johannesburg - where paternity starts
I’ve never been, but hopefully I’ll go
Too dangerous, because of gang warfare
Grandpa Jack, Granny, Aunt Barbara, and Dad
Zayin - two apostrophes - lamed
Honoring them upon my turntable
Makeshift altar for all the ancestors
Although American, I long to sleep

Under African Skies

One day, I hope to traverse the Transvaal
Krueger National Park will grace my eyes
Travel in summer to feel winter chills
I wonder if I’ll maintain through the flight
For seventeen hours is worth the wait
Would love to feel the moon shine upon me

Under African Skies
Yom Kippur,
1973
By Sue Freedman

Saturday, October 6, 1973.
Yom Kippur afternoon.
I was alone in our apartment in Arad, Israel.
My fiance, Reg, was at work.

I’d just awakened from a nap,
Struggling through the fast.
The radio hummed softly.

I heard a familiar voice,
Abie Nathan,
Broadcasting from a ship off the coast
Of the Mediterranean near Tel Aviv
The ship was called “Kol Ha Shalom”,
The Voice of Peace.

Abie sadly informed me,
“We are once again at war.”
The broadcast, in English normally featured popular songs,
But that day, Ocotber 6, 1973,
There was no music.

Only troubling words.
Haunting images.
The war lasted 19 days.
A peace treaty was finalized.

But for Reg and I,
There were only the troubling memories.
I don’t remember the name of Reg’s co-worker,
who lost his life during the Yom Kippur War.
Grief, mourning, fear.
The Day of Atonement will never be the same.
Choices
By Rochelle Maltz
 
If I were to make other choices in my life
Would I
Should I
Could I

Is my life determined by fate
Written in the stars
Part of a master plan
Or simple choices such as yes or no.

Is it all about me
And what I desire
Or is it bigger than that.
My decisions are reflected in my family
And future generations.

Do we make decisions based on our whims
Or do values govern our choices.
Is it nature or nurture? 
Is DNA destiny
Or can we challenge our minds and bodies
To change our footprint and our future.

Immigration, 1906.
By Judith Pessah

Malcha prays as she trudges onward.
Will tiny Faygele, at her side, be safe,
Will Solomon be waiting at the dock?
Will the New World sparkle as promised?

The ship crosses the Sea,
Sounds of Yiddish,
Rising from the crowded Steerage Where Malcha and Faygele restlessly lie.

Malcha doesn’t feel well.
Faygele is hungry.
The little child ascends the steps, Reaching toward the clatter of the First Class Dining Room.

Faygele bangs on the plates.
She is fed.
The travelers wonder,
Why is this scruffy child joining them.

The ship crosses the sea, and enters New York Harbor,
As whiffs of city life reach their senses.
Malcha and Faygele peer into the distance.
Faygele shouts :Zana da lechtila!

The birds twitter overhead.
The red, white and blue flag flutters in the fast moving air.
Welcome dear ones,
To your new home. 
SHABBAT SHALOM
by Dr. Ken Pickover

While everyone is saying what is good and happy in their lives because the rabbi
Wise and astute wants us to remember that.
I can only think, I'm getting fat.
The grandchild oy what naches, the best, I’m kvelling.
And my feet I see are mildly swelling.
On Shabbat the greeting, the meeting, the eating.
And here I am adjusting the seating. Gotta look good for my peeps.
The cantors girding loins for high notes and low
I want to join in, unmute me for a show.
My voice is like butter cause I don’t even utter
Not a word to a spouse or a louse or a mouse in the house.
Can Shabbat, our Shabbat have any less drama?
A lament perhaps, from an overwhelmed mama
I’ll take the rowdy crowd, kibitzing so close
Instead of on the distant screen that makes me so morose.
A Love Sonnet to Willy
By Terry Baver

I’ve always called it my epiphany
when, like lightening, you went through my mind.
Your soul moved me like a symphony,
my heart felt like it touched the divine.

I moved into your world, decided to stay, 
living among your words so profound.
You opened for me a pathway
that still leaves me spellbound.

I brought you into the lives of my two sons,
opening your world to them before they were eight.
Never seeing you as “work”, they saw you as fun
and so sealed our family’s fate.

Sharing your world of beauty together,
connects us with love to each other forever. 
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Temple Israel benefits!















Thank you to all who participated in Trivia Night Via Zoom. It was very successful.

Please save the date for Saturday October 24, 2020 as we are planning to have a fundraising event that evening. At this time, we are not sure if it will be via Zoom or in person, but we will share all the details as soon as the plans are finalized.

We hope everyone will join us in the Spring of 2021 as we set sail for adventure and mystery at Temple Israel.  

We will also be planning to dine at Jimmy Maxx again .  

Respectfully submitted,
Rhonda Trontz-Allen, Karen Frey-Gamoran, Lissa Winchel
Co-Chairs
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Just what you need and just what they want!
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Some featured items this month:
Contact Blanche Ricci at branchtr@aol.com if you are interested in any Judaica Shop items.









EVERY TUESDAY AT 7:00 p.m.
If you would like to join the Choir, just please contact Student Cantor Shirel Richman at scantorrichman@gmail.com .

We'll be back next month with information about activities and initiatives for the beginning of our school programs in September!
Thomas Friedman, NY Times columnist, said recently that to salvage this terrible time, he has been invested in learning. If you are interested in expanding your horizons, Adult Learning offers many opportunities.
In June and July, we offered a poetry class, presented by the poet laureate of Staten Island, Marguerite Rivas. You can see additional examples of our poems this month in the Membership article.

Rabbi Howald has offered several entertaining and informative classes. On July 27th, we learned about the connections between Kabbalah and Reform Judaism.

There has been a three part series, given by the Hartman Institute , Together and Apart: The Future of the Jewish People . The course began with a fascinating discussion between two female rabbis, one from Israel and one from America about "feeling at home." Each session is moderated by Rabbi Howald. The last class is on Aug. 5th. On Aug. 12th, we are offering Israeli Cooking with Rabbi Howald at 7:30pm. If you're interested, please rsvp by contacting Cheryl at  cherylmlevine@gmail.com . Thank you so much to Rabbi Howald for presenting these special classes, and thank you to the Avis Foundation for co-sponsoring all of these sessions.

In addition, there are so many organizations offering virtual classes, tours, etc. Strongly recommended this month is Campfire on Tour, an online concert series benefitting URJ Camps and NFTY. They are aimed at enhancing the Reform Jewish Experience. You can find them every Sunday evening at 8pm through August 23rd. These concerts are FREE!
Among the artists who have already appeared are Nefesh Mountain and Michelle Citrin. Appearing on August 2nd is Josh Nelson, a gifted, multi-instrumentalist and song writer. Don't miss him!!

Cheryl Levine
Judy Pessah
Co-chairs
The Avis Foundation’s mission statement is focused on making Temple Israel membership possible for families with young children. It is also the Foundation’s focus to provide religious, educational and enjoyable activities for all members of Temple Israel.
In the past three years we have offered STEAM classes, pottery classes, animal visits, museum visits, yoga classes,and special religious services. Each year the programs that we offer are evaluated and supplemented.
The COVID - 19 situation has caused us to put planning on a temporary hold. During the month of August we will be on hiatus. 
We have lots of ideas for programming moving into our Fall and Winter seasons. If we are not able to safely meet in the Temple Israel building we will be inventive and will provide ZOOM activities for families. 
We will definitely be continuing the wonderful, inventive food preparation classes conceived of by congregant and Temple Board member, ALINA SHTEYNBERG. We are planning six sessions of CULTUREATS in the coming year- whether they will take place in the Temple Israel kitchen or via ZOOM.
The challenging situation during the past four months has NOT diminished our desire to find new families for our synagogue. If you know of any family that desires a Jewish education for their youngsters contact Terry Baver at  Terryqbaver@gmail.com  or Bryn Biren at  MsBunny7@aol.com . We will reach out to them immediately.
We need connection now, more than ever before. Help us to increase our Temple Israel family!
Sincerely,
Terry Baver & Bryn Biren

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ALL AUGUST YOGA CLASSES ARE TAKING PLACE VIA ZOOM ON
MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS.

MONDAY class begins at 6:15 PM.
THURSDAY class begins at 6:30 PM.
THE MEETING ID:
964 585 2910
PASSWORD:
332084

PLEASE CONTACT BRYN BIREN FOR INFORMATION.


Free for Temple Israel Members & Their Friends during the month of August!

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
Terry Baver at 718-490-4428 or
Bryn Biren at 718-447-6225

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 .
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...
hands_together_sand.jpg


Please contact the committee chair for information.


Pamela Rogozin
Caring Community Chair
917-607-0782
people_social_icons.jpg


Please contact the committee chair for information.



Pamela Rogozin
Caring Community Chair
917-607-0782
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