Congregation B’nai Israel2710 Park AvenueBridgeport, CT 06604www.cbibpt.org

Volume 155, Number 7 Shevat/Adar 5774 February 2014

February 28–March 1Please join us as we welcome scholar-in residence Rabbi Dr. Norman Cohen, professor of midrash at Hebrew Union College–Jewish Institute of Religion in New York City. Rabbi Cohen lectures frequently to audiences of many faiths and was a participant in Bill Moyers’ “Genesis: A Living

Conversation” series on PBS. He has served as HUC’s provost and as the college’s dean.

The discussion topic over these two days will be “Reading the Torah Through the Prism of Midrash: What the Bible Can Teach Us in Our Struggles as Human Beings.”

Friday, February 28 at 8:30 p.m.A conversation in the round with Dr. Cohen following services and Shabbat dinner: “Hineini in our Lives: Responding to Those Whom We Love.” RSVP to Lynn in the office for dinner at 203-336-1858 or lynn@cbibpt.org.

Saturday, March 1 at 9:30 a.m.Special Torah study session with Dr. Cohen: “Abraham’s Journey From Haran to Moriah: The Journey of Every Family.”

We look forward to sharing these engaging sessions with you!

B’nai Israel Welcomes Rabbi Dr. Norman Cohen

The First B’nai Israel Art Show—February 6–16 Celebrating the Talent and Artistry of Our CongregantsFrom February 6 to 16 we’ll be exhibiting the work of some of the talented artists in our congregation. Some who will be displaying are professionals, while others see their work as an avocation. Either way, you’ll be impressed by your fellow congregants! Stop by the pavilion during these 10 days and enjoy the paintings, sketches, photographs, and sculpture. The centerpiece of the show will be some special events, as follows:

A Fine Arts Weekend, February 7–9February 7: Friday night services and Shabbat dinner followed by a talk from Philip Eliasoph, Fairfield University art history professor, “The Artless Jews: Idol Breakers or Icon Makers?” The cost for dinner is $20.00, paid in advance. Contact Lynn at 203-336-1858 or lynn@cbibpt.org.

February 8: Saturday afternoon at 4:30 p.m., we will host an artists’ reception featuring wine, cheese, Havdalah, and a panel discussion from those artists who wish to participate on their creative process and the spirituality they find in their art. February 9: On Sunday at noon there will be a program for Religious School children and parents. Creating with our artists: Join our B’nai Israel artists along with your classmates and friends in making your own art—collage, sculpture, graphics, and calligraphy. Pizza lunch will be served. RSVP to Lynn at 203-336-1858 or lynn@cbibpt.org.

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James Prosnit, D.D. .................................................................... RabbiEvan Schultz ............................................................................... RabbiArnold I. Sher, D.D. ..................................................... Rabbi EmeritusSheri E. Blum, D.M. ................................................................ CantorRamon Gilbert, D.M. ................................................ Cantor EmeritusIra J. Wise, R.J.E. ............................................. Director of EducationRobert H. Gillette, R.J.E. ....................................... Educator EmeritusAlexa Cohen .............................................. Early Childhood DirectorAbby Rohinsky ..................................................... Director of Facility

OfficersMindy Siegel ......................................................................... PresidentSamuel Rosenberg ....................................................1st Vice PresidentMichael Blumenthal ...................................................... Vice PresidentShari Nerreau ................................................................ Vice PresidentRichard Walden ............................................................ Vice PresidentLori Underberger .................................................................. TreasurerLawrence Levine ................................................... Assistant TreasurerJulie Pressman ....................................................................... SecretaryDonna Tauss .......................................................... Financial SecretaryMark A. Kirsch ............................................. Immediate Past President

AffiliatesJim Greenberg ................................................. Brotherhood PresidentMaddy Lippman & Elizabeth Maisel .............. BIFTY Co-Presidents

2710 Park Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06604(203) 336-1858www.cbibpt.org

The Bulletin of Congregation B’nai Israelis published every month except July.

What’s happening at temple? Get Happenings, our weekly email! Send your request to lynn@cbibpt.org.

Sharing Our Joy!Congratulations to:

Alice and George Kelly on the birth of their grandson, Sam, son of David and Christine Kelly.Gail and Peter Weinstein on the birth of their granddaughter, Chloe Samantha, daughter of Brad and Jordana Weinstein.Elaine and Juda Chetrit on the engagement of their son, Michael Chetrit, to Sarah Kim.Maggie and Marc Walowitz on the engagement of their son, Jason Walowitz, to Adrianne Iber.Mindy and Jeff Siegel on the engagement of their daughter, Jaclyn Siegel, to Asher Epstein.Terri and Dan Green on the birth of their granddaughter, Gwendolyn May Braman, daughter of Annie and Lenny Braman. Becky and Rich Rosen on the engagement of their daughter, Julie.Cleo and Jon Sonneborn on the engagement of their daughter, Jessica.

Sincere SympathyWe extend our sympathy to the bereaved families of:

Bernard Gerber, father of Janice JacobsJoseph GoloffUrsula Kay, mother of Tom and Larry KayMarjorie OlschanLeona (Lee) Attenberg

Welcome! Welcome!

A warm welcome to our newest members. We look forward to their participation in our many programs and hope their affiliation will enrich not only their lives, but that of our congregation as well.

Roberta and Sanford Small Hall Road, Easton

B’nai Israel Book Group

Temple book lovers are invited to join an ongoing group. We meet in the temple library the third Thursday of every month from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The next meeting will be on Thursday, February 20. For more information, contact Sue Shane at 203-345-4539.

3Bring your young family to Mishpacha Shabbat—see p. 4 for details.

The visual tradition is alive and well within Judaism. Over the years, some have suggested that the commandment against “graven images” has steered Jews away from the visual arts. But most interpreters see that as a misreading of the text. Although the rabbis of

old found three-dimensional images that imitate living things problematic, they clearly considered other art forms “kosher.” In fact, their concern was less about prohibiting artworks and more about the sense that if you are going to make it, make it beautiful.

The commandment became hiddur mitzvah—to enhance the sacred object by making it beautiful. This was true for synagogue mosaics and architecture, menorahs and Kiddush cups, Torah scrolls and illuminated manuscripts, especially haggadot. Throughout our history there have been some very talented Jews creating some magnificent and lasting images.

When the Renaissance and periods of Enlightenment took Christian artists away from classic biblical and religious themes, the Jewish artists of the day did similarly. By the 19th and 20th centuries, Jewish painters especially became recognized the world over but in many cases more as artists who happened to be Jews than as Jewish artists.

Such themes will be part of the discussion and the vision in early February as we celebrate some very talented people in our congregation who engage in the fine arts. As you’ll note on the front cover of this Bulletin, we’re holding the first B’nai Israel Art Show, featuring the work of about a dozen of our congregants. Some do their work professionally and others as avocation—either way, I think you’ll find something that will delight you and impress you.

But more than just a display of the artworks, we’ll find ways to add conversation on the nature of Jewish art and the creative process. I hope you’ll join us on Friday evening, February 7, for Fairfield University’s professor of art history Dr. Philip Eliasoph’s talk on “The Artless Jews: Idol Breakers or Icon Makers,” and on Saturday afternoon, February 8, when our artists will talk about their creative process and the spirituality they find in their work. Do they consider themselves to be artists who happen to be Jews or Jewish artists? Please note also the program on Sunday, when some of our artists will work with some of the elementary school children on some special projects.

Thanks to Philip Eliasoph and to our artists—Elaine Clayton, Beth Doris, Kate Eisemann, Geoff Gladstein, Lisa Greenberg, Eric Gross, Noah Hendler, Katie Klein, Mollie Keller, Brenda Kreuzer, Steven Mayerson, Ellen Hyde Phillips, David Pressler, Barbara Saltman, Mark Schiff, Cleo Sonneborn, Wendy Swain, Adam Weisblatt, and Florence Zolan—for sharing their talents.

Rabbi James Prosnit

From the Rabbi’s Desk

Make It Beautiful—A Celebration of the Artists Among Us

We Want to Visit You!

Because of privacy laws, neither Bridgeport Hospital nor St. Vincent’s will let us know of congregants who are hospitalized. Please let us know if you are going into the hospital or know of others who are. Our clergy makes pastoral visits, but we can only do so if we’re aware (better to hear from several congregants than from none). Thank you, and as always, our best wishes for a speedy recovery!

4 Items of the month: juices

Brotherhood NewsIn the past our Brotherhood news has focused on events, opportunities to volunteer, and the like, but in this edition we take a moment to spotlight a few of our members and their recent accomplishments.

Back in summer 2013, members Bob Sheiman and Jerry Demner approached Cantor Blum and expressed their interest in learning to chant Torah. Bob and Jerry, a “few” years removed from their Bar Mitzvahs, brought the same energy and enthusiasm to this project as they do to everything else. The cantor was happy to work with them, and regular study ensued. On consecutive Shabbat mornings in December, both Jerry and Bob chanted Torah in stellar fashion, and Bob completed the journey by delivering the week’s D’var Torah. It was heartwarming and inspiring, and Cantor Blum was more than proud of her students.

I had the pleasure of delivering the D’var Torah the following week—Parsha Shemot, the rich text in which we enter the Book of Exodus and witness the awe-inspiring events that shaped Jewish history. We find heroes at every turn in this story, but we learned that everyday folks can be heroes when they reach deep to find their passion and pursue it. Bob and Jerry exemplified that kind of passion. Mazel Tov to you both!

Our 8:00 a.m. Shabbat morning service is a treasured part of B’nai Israel known for its spirituality, camaraderie, and informality. It is a great combination. If you are looking for a way to get more involved in synagogue life, perhaps attending the Shabbat morning service is the perfect place to start…of course followed by our weekly Brotherhood Breakfast! Everyone is welcome. If you are interested, and would like to talk about it beforehand, feel free to contact me anytime at the e-mail address below.

Also, if you are not a member and wish to join Brotherhood, please feel free to send a $40.00 check made out to B’nai Israel Brotherhood to:

B’nai Israel Brotherhood2710 Park AvenueBridgeport, CT 06604

We thank all of our members for their continuing support.

L’shalom,Jim Greenberg, Brotherhood Presidentjim@unionmachinery.com

Mishpacha Shabbat Monthly Shabbat Community for Families (children ages 5 – 12)Fridays, February 28, March 21, April 4, May 9, and June 13 from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m.Choose from any (or all) of the dates above and join other B’nai Israel families for a Shabbat potluck dinner followed by Shabbat singing and a brief, age-appropriate Shabbat service. To RSVP or for more information or to join the Mishpacha Shabbat e-mail list, please contact our parent coordinator, Rachel Yurdin, at rachelyurdin@gmail.com, or Rabbi Schultz at eschultz@cbibpt.org.

Consider Giving to the Red Cross B’nai Israel will host our second Red Cross blood drive during this season of giving and gratitude, Monday, February 10, from 1:00 to 6:30 p.m. Schedule your appointment by calling

the Red Cross at 1-800-448-3543. Previous donors can log in at www.redcrossblood.org. Thank you for this vital gift!

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If you were to sit down with me, Rabbi Prosnit, Cantor Blum, and Ira Wise, and ask us, “Who are the people that you consider your teachers?” we would probably give you a wide array of names, both historical figures and living greats. Yet one of the names that would thread through all of our responses would surely be Rabbi

Dr. Norman Cohen. Dr. Cohen is a professor of midrash at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, in New York City. Rabbi Prosnit, Cantor Blum, Ira, and I have all had the opportunity to study and explore the midrashic world of rabbinic imagination with Dr. Cohen, and we couldn’t be more thrilled that he is coming to spend Shabbat and share his gifts with us this February.

Midrash is most often defined as rabbinic folklore—stories and teachings from our sages to explain curious or difficult phrases and verses in the Hebrew Bible. Midrash is one of my favorite texts to study, as we see the full extent of the rabbinic imagination at work. This body of Jewish literature is non-halachic, meaning that it contains no laws of Jewish ritual or practice; rather, midrash strives to interpret and uncover deeper meanings and connections with our text.

Here’s an example of midrash, as we see how the rabbis connect two seemingly disparate passages in the

Torah. Consider the famous verse from Genesis, when three strangers approach Abraham and Sarah’s tent in the wilderness. Genesis 18:6 reads, “Knead and make cakes!” The word for cakes in Hebrew is matzot (the plural of matzah, the food we eat on Passover). Here’s the midrash: The rabbis observe that the matzot that the Israelites prepared when they left Egypt were also called (Ex. 12:39) “unleavened cakes.” The cakes that Sarah prepared for the angels were matzot, so the visitors must have come to visit the couple during Passover. The midrash adds that by merit of the cakes that Sarah prepared for the angels, the Israelites were given manna in the wilderness (Gen. Rabbah 48:12), thus adding an even deeper symbolism to the crunchy cracker we eat around the Seder table. All that from the word matzah!

Dr. Cohen is a master of midrashic literature. Every week in class he would take us on a journey through the rabbinic mind, and leave us with a great “gift”: a secret embedded within the text that we never knew was there. I highly encourage you to come learn with Dr. Cohen the weekend of February 28–March 1 here at B’nai Israel. Dr. Cohen will speak after services on Friday night and at Torah study on Saturday morning at 9:30 a.m. He will surely come bearing many “gifts” to share with our community. Come let your rabbinic imagination run wild!

Rabbi Evan Schultz

From Rabbi SchultzWe Invite You to Learn With the Teacher to Your Teachers

Visit our first-ever congregation-wide art show! See front cover for details.

Tree Planting in Israel—In Honor of Ellen Kadden’s Courageous SpiritAt the Tu B’Shvat Rosh Chodesh Seder, the group collected donations toward the purchase of trees to be planted in the Coretta Scott King Forest in the Galilee Region of Northern Israel. Three trees have already been purchased, and the word has spread throughout our community. Many congregants have since asked Rabbi Suri Krieger if more can be purchased; of course they can, and Suri would be happy to arrange this! If you would like to contribute a few dollars toward this wonderful cause and in support of Ellen Kadden, please see Lynn in the temple office.

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From the Early Childhood Center

PJ Goes to SchoolWe are so excited to announce that we are going to be part of the new pilot program “PJ Goes to School.” For those of you who are not familiar with the PJ Library, it is a program that started in one community through the generous donation of Harold Grinspoon,

who was inspired by Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and has now spread to more than 260 communities. Through the continued philanthropy of Mr. Grinspoon, the PJ Library delivers one book or CD a month to Jewish children throughout the country.

“PJ Goes to School” was started in Israel because as many of you know, mailbox space in Israel is very small, so many children were not able to receive their books. It was decided that the PJ Library books in Israel would be delivered to the children’s school; thus, “PJ Goes to School” was born (here in the United States, children still receive their books at home). The Grinspoon Foundation decided to launch this program in conjunction with local Jewish preschools.

“PJ Goes to School” is dedicated to enhancing the Jewish content of the classroom. It engages families in conversations about Jewish values by using PJ Library books as a catalyst. Schools receive PJ books, related

resource guides, and professional development. “PJ Goes to School” is in approximately 400 classrooms in 14 PJ Library communities—and growing!

The program

• is a values-based Jewish education initiative incorporating PJ books.

• enhances the Jewish content of the classroom. • helps build relationships for shared values between

families and schools. • engages families in conversations about Jewish

values. • provides educators with opportunities for

professional development.

PJ Goes to School is not a curriculum, and it is not prescriptive. Rather, it

• uses, at its foundation, the creativity and spirit of each teacher.

• weaves Jewish values throughout each school’s existing programs.

• supports schools as they inspire Jewish conversations in the classroom and in the home.

We at the B’nai Israel Early Childhood Education Center are so fortunate to welcome this wonderful program to our nursery school!

(some text adapted from www.pjlibrary.org)

Coffee and Cuddles—Toddler Group (ages 11–23 months)Join a stimulating playgroup facilitated by an experienced early childhood education professional for a wonderful socialization opportunity for children and caregivers alike. Held in B’nai Israel’s Early Childhood Education center (ECEC), activities in Coffee and Cuddles include story time, free play, circle time, snack, singing, and outdoor play.

This is a special program for parents/caregivers and their children to participate in together. It’s not too late to join us for a terrific year! We meet on Thursday mornings from 9:15 to 10:30 a.m.

For more information, please call Alexa Cohen in the ECEC office at 203-335-5058.

7Bring your young family to Mishpacha Shabbat—see p. 4 for details.

From the Education Center

Experiencing JudaismWhat are your favorite Jewish experiences from when you were younger? Maybe it was when you hosted your parents at a Seder or other holiday dinner in your own home for the first time. Could be it was the time you met with your rabbi to get started on writing your

d’var Torah for your Bar or Bat Mitzvah.

One of my favorite Jewish memories happened every few weeks when it was warm in the years after I got my driver’s license. I would load some gardening tools in the car, pick up Grandma Honey, and head to the cemetery. We spent hours there, pulling weeds and planting. We also talked a lot about many different things, but we always talked about Grandpa Leo, his parents and brother, and her friend Annie Dukelsky, who were all buried there. Before going home, she would ask me to recite the Kaddish.

Actually, these are among my most treasured experiences.

By now I hope you are aware of how our teachers have begun incorporating experiential educational techniques in our religious school classrooms for the past few years. Just this week, Laura Pappas’s Kitah Zayin (7th grade) students created their own Jewish superheroes. They designed their heroes to perform acts of Pikuach Nefesh—saving lives—as they culminated their semester of learning about Jewish solutions to ethical dilemmas.

Karen Montagna, Bonnie Appel, and Laura Pappas (again) helped their Kitah Hey (5th grade) students design identity cards that tell people about who they are. We sent them to their new friends at our partner school in Afula, Israel, and they are sending theirs to

us. We will trade a few more artifacts as well. Omer and Ya’ara, our Shinshinot (Young Israeli Emissaries), will visit the school in February. In March we will have a Skype meeting with them.

Yesterday I watched Rafael Carruthers’s Kitah Vav (3rd

grade) class play musical chairs in Hebrew and Hebrew MadLibs and have a contest in which teams read and defined Hebrew words on the board. The mood in the room felt like a playground, but the Hebrew skills were great!

This is cutting-edge stuff. And our teachers have had opportunities to learn more about using experiential techniques from master teachers who have come to temple. What can you do to help?

Well, we could use some money to buy iPads to give us the tools to do more. We can get them for about $285.00 apiece. Actually, this was not supposed to be a fundraising column. But my e-mail address is iwise@cbibpt.org, and you won’t be refused.

What we all can do is to share our experiences and create new ones with our children and grandchildren. You can help us with the Chavurah program. You can light candles on Friday night with your own kids or invite other families to do so in your home. Sit down with kids and share some of your Jewish memories—like the ones I asked you about at the top of the page.

One thing to remember: No experience is educational by itself. Until you talk about it. Until you process it and make meaning of it. That is part of what our teachers do. And so can you!

L’shalom,Ira J. Wise, Director of Education

8 Visit our first-ever congregation-wide art show! See front cover for details.

Adult Jewish Learning at Congregation B’nai Israel

Sunday Morning Forums: Health and Wellness at B’nai IsraelFebruary 2, March 2, and April 6 at 9:30 a.m. Join us for our series on health and wellness—all are invited to attend these communal meet-ups! Free babysitting will be available. RSVP to Rabbi Schultz at 203-336-1858 or eschultz@cbibpt.org if you would like a babysitter.

February 2: Play With Your Food! A Parent’s Guide to Kid’s Nutrition, with Dr. Judy HochstadtMarch 2: Movie screening of Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead, and juicing demonstration with Laura LehrhauptApril 6: Brighten Up: an educational workshop focused on breast and ovarian health

Adult RoundtableFebruary 6 and the first Thursday of each month at 12:30 p.m.This group holds a discussion about current events for anyone who wants to go deeper than the deadlines and enjoys expressing their own opinions and hearing those of others. Facilitated by Gloria Katz. Join us on the first Thursday of each month and bring a sandwich, your opinion, and an open mind.

The First B’nai Israel Art Show, February 6–16Celebrating the Talent and Artistry of Our CongregantsThis February we’ll be exhibiting the work of some of the talented artists in our congregation. Some who will be displaying are professionals, while others see their work as an avocation. Either way, you’ll be impressed by your fellow congregants! Stop by the pavilion during those 10

days and enjoy the paintings, sketches, photographs, and sculpture. See the front cover for further information.

But Where Is the Lamb?Lifelong Learning: Fridays at noon, February 7 and 14Rabbi James Prosnit leads the last two sessions of a five-part series on the Akeidah, the Binding of Isaac. The famous narrative has challenged the ancient interpreters and contemporary scholars. From Soren Kierkegaard to Bob Dylan and Woody Allen, it seems that many have a perspective on this section from Genesis. Our focus will be a new book by James Goodman entitled But Where Is the Lamb: Imagining the Stories of Abraham and Isaac, which brings some of these disparate voices together.

What Phase of the Moon Are You In? Rosh Chodesh—Women’s group with Rabbi Suri KriegerThursdays, February 13, March 13, April 10, and May 8 at 7:30 p.m.The waxing and waning of lunar cycles has been a guiding force for women throughout the ages, both literally and spiritually. Since the Jewish feminist movement reclaimed Rosh Chodesh in the 1970s, women have been gathering on a monthly basis to acknowledge and celebrate. The form of this celebration has taken on many faces...ancient text, contemporary outreach, food, and fantasy. Please join us!

The Woman’s Voice in Jewish Writing Mondays, February 24, March 3, 10, 17 at 7:00 p.m., with Rabbi Evan SchultzThis course is an opportunity to read, discuss, and appreciate the woman’s voice in Jewish writing. Focusing mainly on modern Jewish writers, both American and Israeli, we will explore poetry, prose, and contemporary thought. Some of the writers and thinkers we read will include Gluckel of Hameln, Cynthia Ozick, Emma Lazarus, Marcia Falk, Rachel Adler, and Rachel Morpugo. This class is not for women only! All community members are invited to attend this journey through Jewish women’s words.

9Items of the month: juices

Adult Jewish Learning at Congregation B’nai Israel

Spector Family Scholar-in-Residence Reading the Torah Through the Prism of Midrash: What the Bible Can Teach Us in Our Struggles as Human Beings, With Rabbi Dr. Norman Cohen Friday, February 28 and Saturday, March 1Join us as we welcome scholar-in residence Rabbi Dr. Norman Cohen, professor of Midrash at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in New York City. Please see the front cover for further information and to RSVP. The Future of Judaism?Monday Midrasha, March 24, 31, and April 7 at 7:00 p.m.

Our congregation was founded 155 years ago and was structured to meet the needs of Bridgeport’s Jews just before the Civil War (or for our Southern-born members, the War Between the States). B’nai Israel has evolved and reinvented itself many times over since then. Each generation sees the world differently and finds its own ways to seek

connection, spirituality, and community. Let’s have a frank conversation about what we and our children will need to fulfill us Jewishly in the 21st century. With Ira Wise.

Jews Under Islam Part II: Maimonides, Egypt, and the CrusadesLifelong Learning, Fridays, April 11, 18, and 25 at noonOur next stop through history will be a closer look at the life, times, and ideas of Rabbi Moses ben Maimon, known alternately as Rambam or Maimonides. There is an old saying: “From Moses (the guy in Exodus) to Moses

(Rambam) there was no one like Moses.” His teaching and leadership did much to set the course for the Jewish people, and his impact is still felt today. Join Ira Wise in unpacking what Maimonides has to teach us today.

Tikkun Leil ShavuotTuesday, June 3 at 8:00 p.m.

Our tradition says that in every generation we should view ourselves as if we personally had gone out from Egypt, stood at Mount Sinai, and received the Torah. Join Rabbis Prosnit and Schultz

and Ira Wise for a Shavuot journey of learning. There will be more details in the May Bulletin!

The Journey Continues—Torah Study in Bamidbar/NumbersEvery Saturday morning at 9:30 a.m.Every Saturday morning we learn Torah together. Some attend 8:00 a.m. services, others arrive in time for the study group. Some participate every week, and others drop in when they can. Some have solid biblical backgrounds, and others are novices to the study. Some know Hebrew, and most do not. Bottom line: Everyone is welcome! Join us for an enriching, enjoyable, and engaging hour of weekly learning of our most sacred text.

10 What’s happening at temple? Get Happenings, our weekly email! Send your request to lynn@cbibpt.org.

SHABBAT SERVICE SCHEDULE(Fridays at 6:00 p.m. where indicated, preceded by an Oneg Shabbat at 5:30 p.m.)

Friday, February 7 6:00 p.m. Service

Torah Portion – T’tzaveh, Exod. 27:20-30:10 Haftarah – Ezekiel 43:10-27

Saturday, February 8 8:00 a.m. Service 9:00 a.m. Brotherhood Breakfast 9:30 a.m. Torah Study 9:30 a.m. Young Families

Havurah Friday, February 14 6:00 p.m. Service

Torah Portion – Ki Tisa, Exod. 30:11-34:35 Haftarah – I Kings 18:1-39

Saturday, February 15 8:00 a.m. Service 9:00 a.m. Brotherhood Breakfast 9:30 a.m. Torah Study 9:30 a.m. Young Families

Havurah Friday, February 21 6:00 p.m. Service

Torah Portion – Vayak’heil, Exod. 35:1-38:20 Haftarah – I Kings 7:40-50

Saturday, February 22 8:00 a.m. Service 9:00 a.m. Brotherhood Breakfast 9:30 a.m. Torah Study 9:30 a.m. Young Families

Havurah 9:45 a.m. Service

Friday, February 28 5:30 p.m. Mishpacha Shabbat 6:00 p.m. Service

Torah Portion – P’kudei, Exod. 38:21-40:38

Haftarah – II Kings 12:5-16

Saturday, March 1 8:00 a.m. Service 9:00 a.m. Brotherhood Breakfast 9:30 a.m. Torah Study 9:30 a.m. Young Families

Havurah 11:00 a.m. Bat Mitzvah of Sarah

Weinstein, daughter of Kenneth and Rita Weinstein

High Holy Days AppealThese donations were received after the January Bulletin was published. Thank you for your support!

Benefactor of Congregation Elaine and Juda Chetrit Fran and Rob Morris

President’s Circle

Carol and Peter Mack

General Contributions Judith Ohl Bart

Marty and Alayne Burger Geoffrey Gladstein

Sally Kenler Lori and Bruce Skyer

11Bring your young family to Mishpacha Shabbat—see p. 4 for details.

DonationsPlease note that only contributions of $10.00 or more will be acknowledged with a card and Bulletin listing.

Rabbi Prosnit Discretionary FundLuise and Ed Burger, Allie, Marc, and Dan in loving memory of Samuel Burger and Herbert Mann.Alyssa Cohen in memory of Marcia Dolgin Cohen.Lilla and Milton Cooper in memory of Arnold Kaplan, husband of Bobby Kaplan.Michael and Diane Farber—a donation.The Fromme family in honor of Isabel’s Bat Mitzvah, and with appreciation to Rabbi Prosnit.Maxine, Stewart, and Jena Gross in memory of mother and grandmother, Jean Schafrank.Alice and George Kelly in honor of the birth of grandson, Sam, son of David and Christine Kelly.Barry and Judy Kramer in loving memory of mother, Rose Singer, and sister, Rebecca Kramer.The Kadden family with thanks.Carol Krim—Mazel Tov to the Breslows, especially Craig.Aleksey and Raisa Ledvich in memory of grandmother, Sarah Ledvich.Ledvich and Goldshteyn families in memory of aunt and sister, Shelya Sotnick.Andy and Carol Lubin a donation.Esther and Neil Miller in memory of David Miller, father of Neil Miller.Steve and Gail Unger in memory of Janet Unger and Ida Blam.Marilyn and Dr. Norman Weinstein in memory of Janet Kõper, mother of Dr. Judy Hochstadt.Florence Yasser in loving memory of mother, Sarah Epstein.

Rabbi Schultz Discretionary FundPhyllis and Larry Bausher in honor of the naming service of granddaughters, Lilah Sydney Bausher and Hallie Lena Bausher. The Kadden family with thanks.Carol Krim in appreciation to Rabbi Schultz for highlighting the crucial issue of global warming.Andy and Carol Lubin—a donation.Samuel Rosenberg in appreciation of Rabbi Schultz.

Music FundCarol and Nate Barsky in honor of Cantor Blum’s 20th anniversary at B’nai Israel, and for Rachel’s engagement to Noam.Judi and David Beier Mazel Tov to Cantor Blum on the engagement of her daughter Rachel Ginsburg to Noam Schaap.Luise and Ed Burger—Mazel Tov on the engagement of Rachel to Noam.Jerry Demner in appreciation of Cantor Blum’s help.Bari S. Dworken in appreciation of Cantor Sheri Blum.The Fromme family in honor of Isabel’s Bat Mitzvah and with appreciation to Cantor Blum.The Goldfields—congratulations and thanks for all of the fine musical and tutorial work you did with Julian, Miriam, and their class.Jena Gross in honor of your special anniversary and with thanks.The Kadden family in honor of Cantor Sheri Blum’s 20 years of music at B’nai Israel.The Kenler family in honor of Cantor Blum’s 20th anniversary with the synagogue.The Reznikoff family in honor of Cantor Sheri Blum’s 20 years at B’nai Israel.Abby Schine in memory of Jacob Zeldes, husband of Nancy Zeldes; in memory of Elizabeth Henriquez, sister of Maggie Walowitz; in memory of James Baum, husband of Edie Baum.Nancy and Irving Silverman in celebration of Cantor Blum’s 20th anniversary and in honor of the birth of Debbie and Michael Weisman’s granddaughter.

Steve and Gail Unger in memory of Boris Muntner and Mary Unger.Debbie and Michael Weisman in memory of Mary Frauwirth, mother; Max Frauwirth, father; and Nancy Frauwirth, sister.Ronnie and Fred Zinn in memory of Sidney Silverman, father of Marc Silverman.

Enhancement FundDebbie and Lanny Boles in memory of Bernard Gerber, father of Jan Jacobs.Luise and Ed Burger—Mazel Tov on the birth of Mesa, granddaughter of Wendy and Ralph Michel; Mazel Tov on the birth of Sadie, granddaughter of Barbara and Derek Solomon; in memory of Dr. James Baum, husband of Edie Baum; in memory of Bernie Gerber, father of Jan Jacobs; Mazel Tov to Maggie and Marc Walowitz on Jason’s engagement to Adrianne Iber; Mazel Tov to Randy and Beth Reich on Julie and Brandon’s marriage; Mazel Tov to Elaine and Juda Chetrit on the engagement of Michael to Sarah Kim.Luise and Ed Burger, Allie, Marc, and Dan—Mazel Tov to Mindy and Jeff Siegel on the engagement of Jaclyn to Asher Epstein.Mr. and Mrs. Robert DeBona in memory of Dr. Bernie Gerber, father of Janice Jacobs.Dr. and Mrs. Milton Cooper in memory of Dr. Bernard Gerber.Shirley Deutsch in memory of father, Louis Krofssik.Marvin Gelfand in memory of father, Nathan Gelfand, and brother, Cyril Gelfand.Debbie and David Gitner in memory of Dr. Bernard Gerber.Laurel and Hank Greenberg in memory of brother, Dr. Lloyd H. Silverman; in memory of Betty Keller, mother of Janet Jurow; and with thanks to Ira Wise for his interesting class on Mohamed.Ronni Kirsch in appreciation to Lynn Lynch, and in memory of my father, Dr. Eugene Zuckerman.Alida and Al Kleban in memory of father, Irving Kleban.Linda Koski in memory of father, Don Schimmel, and grandmother, Shirley Schimmel.Bernard Levine in memory of mother, Gertrude Levine.Andy and Carol Lubin—a donation.Ruth Madwed in memory of son, Steven Madwed, and parents, Jacob and Eva Dolid.Marina Malnikoff in appreciation of Rabbi Schultz.Chris and George Markley in memory of Bernie Gerber, father of Jan Jacobs.Rhoda Mazur in fond memory of Bernie Gerber, father of Jan Jacobs.Jill and Stephen Montag in honor of the Bar Mitzvah of our cousin, Jared Smith, and in appreciation of having received the aliyah of carrying the Torah upon its removal from the Ark.Arthur and Ann Nishball—a donation.Paul and Gertrude Reisman in memory of Stella Zalusky, mother of Gertrude Reisman.Paul Rosch in memory of my mother, Mollie Rosch.Claire Rosenberg in memory of Mary Plaine, grandmother, and Louis Rosenberg, husband.Gloria Sheiman in memory of father, Louis Krofssik.Mindy and Jeff Siegel in honor of the engagement of daughter, Jaclyn, to Asher Epstein.Debbie and Michael Weisman in memory of Bernie Gerber, father of Janice Jacobs.

Nursery School Scholarship FundThe Giglietti family in memory of Michael Giglietti, father of Rob Giglietti.Gail and Peter Weinstein—congratulations on the birth of Nathan, grandson of Rosanne and Steve Ain;

congratulations to Carol and Shep Goldstein on their granddaughter’s Bat Mitzvah; in memory of Henry, father of Larry Kahn; in honor of the special birthday of Jerry Pressman.

Rabbi Martin Library FundThe Library Ladies in honor of Dale and Jerry Demner’s 45th anniversary.Susan Sherman in memory of Edward Murray Sherman.

Religious School Scholarship FundAndy and Carol Lubin—a donation.

Rabbi Arnold Sher Social Action FundCarol and Nate Barsky in memory of our daughter, Lynn Barsky Ryalls.Ellen and Larry Dinkes in memory of Janet Kõper, mother of Dr. Judy Hochstadt.Geraldyn Eckber in memory of Dr. Bernard Gerber, father of Janice Jacobs.Joni and Michael Greenspan in honor of the Bat Mitzvah of Naomi Bloch, granddaughter of Serena and Arnie Sher, and in appreciation for your wonderful hospitality.Jerry Lazar in honor of sister, Beth Lazar, who exemplifies the tradition and philosophy that “Judiasm Is a Verb”—it’s not enough to be Jewish, but to do Jewish.Len and Suzanne Lazar—a donation.Janet and Dennis Magid in honor of the Bat Mitzvah of Naomi Bloch, granddaughter of Serena and Arnie Sher.George and Chris Markley in support of the temple’s commitment to CONECT—Congregations Organized for a New Connecticut.Scott, James, Susan, Emma, and Edward William Sherman in appreciation.Laura Sydney and Ted Pulton in memory of Sydell Jacobs, mother of Philip Jacobs.Steve and Gail Unger in honor of Arthur Unger and David Muntner.

Vision Loan Reduction FundGeoffrey Gladstein in memory of Henry Kahn.The Kadden family in honor of, and with thanks to, the B’nai Israel leaf-raking crew;with thanks to David and Georgette Chetrit.Patti and Samuel Rosenberg in memory of Bernard Gerber, father of Jan Jacobs.Sarah Rosenberg in appreciation of Amy Rich.Mindy and Jeff Siegel in honor of the engagement of Jason Walowitz to Adrianne Iber.

Jim Abraham Education Fund for Jewish LeadershipDebora Frauwirth Weisman in memory of Joseph Goloff, father of Carol Goloff.

MAZONBarbara and Rob Liberman in memory of Bernie Gerber, father of Janice Jacobs.Nora Mayerson in memory of beloved mother, Lily S. Shereshevsky.

Slepian Floral FundThe Panisch Family in memory of Debra Madow, daughter of Sheila Madow.

Prayer Book FundDr. Loryn Lesser in memory of Dr. Bernard Gerber.

12

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Come All and Have a Ball!2014/5774 Purim Celebration and CarnivalJoin us on Sunday, March 16 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for our annual Purim celebration and carnival. It’s big fun for the entire family! Here’s what’s coming your way:

First, we’ll• Enjoy a fun and funny Purim play (another

Cahr/Chase Production)! • Hear the Junior Choir sing!• Read the Megillah!

Then, we’ll:•Have lunch!•Play Purim carnival games!•Jump in the bounce house!

The Purim Celebration and Carnival is a great way to celebrate Purim with friends and family. The more, the merrier! And feel free to come in costume!

Comedy Night at B’nai IsraelIt’s Purim! Join us for an adult evening of comedy on Saturday, March 15 at 6:30 p.m. We’re planning a spectacular Purim Spiel, the hilarious comic act of Joel Chasnoff, and a Middle

Eastern dinner with wine, beer, dessert, and coffee. The cost is $54.00 per person, paid in advance only, to Lynn in the temple office. Reserve your seat today! For more information on Joel Chasnoff, visit www.joelchasnoff.com. We’re looking forward to a really entertaining and enjoyable evening!