1302 February 13 Scroll vWEB
Transcription
1302 February 13 Scroll vWEB
Scroll Congregation Beth El February 2013 • Shevat–Adar 5773 Shehecheyanu From the Clergy Theme Be Happy, It’s Adar! • 1, 10-14 From the Clergy • 1 Ask the Clergy • 1 Shabbat Across America • 2 Youth Activities • 7 Musician-in-Residence • 8 Library Corner • 9 Shir Atid 4U • 15 Departments Sisterhood • 4-5 Men’s Club • 6 Contributions • 17 Bulletin Board • 20 By Rabbi Greg Harris Jews know about joy. We know how to celebrate, dance the hora, and say l’chaim. We are a people that laugh with Jackie Mason, Andy Kaufman, and Sarah Silverman. The holiday of Purim (beginning the night of February 23) brings our own Megillah Madness, which is Beth El’s amazing and joyous telling of the story of Queen Esther, Haman, and Mordechai. It might seem natural that we are a people keenly aware of joy because our history seems overflowing with hardship. As the joke goes, Jewish holidays are basically this: they tried to kill us, we won, let’s eat. Maybe joy was the antidote to our centuries of despair. It is possible that the quintessential prayer of joy, Shehecheyanu, emphasizes moments of Ask the Clergy No, really. Why do we eat hamantaschen on Purim? By Hazzan Matthew Klein This issue is partially underwritten with the generous support of Sharon Margolis Apfel and Dov Apfel. The Scroll is a recipient of three Solomon Schechter Gold Awards from the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. Vol. 62 No. 6 Jews are great at puns. Look at the names of most people in the Bible; they are allusions or puns on some event or name in the person’s life. Cain’s name means “gotten,” for, said his mother, Eve, “I have gotten a son from the Lord! (Gen. 4:1). Jacob is so named because he “follows behind (ya’akov)” his brother and Moses, the Bible explains, means “drawn” because they drew him from the water. Perhaps joy precisely because those moments are unpredictable. Today, Everything Seems Joyous Today, however, we seem to live a life full of joyous moments. We turn everything into mini-celebrations. They include not only promotions, weddings, births, and significant birthdays but also doing well on an exam or a concert performance. We create celebrations for everything, yet I do not think we feel our lives are more joyous. For many, joy is no longer a “peak experience” in life because we expect it in every activity we do. Happiness, accomplishment, and pride are important emotions, and joy is something even greater. Two examples of joy in the Tanach underscore its unique position. The first example is that joy is the continued on page 6 in English they would have named him “Drew.” The hamantasch comes from a pun dating back to the German Middle Ages. The pastries were originally a dessert known as mohntaschen, meaning “poppyseed (mohn) pockets (taschen).” But put a “Ha” sound in front of it, and you get something that sounds like Haman’s name: “HaMOHN-taschen.” Thus a clever pun in the Middle Ages gave birth to a timeless Purim treat. But this isn’t the end to Jewish puns about food. Rosh Hashanah has a long custom of making food puns for the fes- continued on page 16 Scroll 8215 Old Georgetown Road Bethesda, Maryland 20814-1451 Phone 301-652-2606 Fax 301-907-8559 Webwww.bethelmc.org Affiliated with United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism Senior Rabbi William D. Rudolph [email protected] Rabbi Gregory Harris [email protected] Hazzan Matthew Klein [email protected] Executive Director Sheila H. Bellack [email protected] Interim Religious School Director Elisha Frumkin [email protected] Director of Community Engagement Geryl Baer [email protected] Preschool Director Elaine Auerbach [email protected] Youth Director Adam Zeren [email protected] Rabbi Emeritus Samuel Scolnic, z"l Hazzan Emeritus Abraham Lubin [email protected] President Dale Rosenthal Executive Vice President David Mills Communications and Tikkun Olam Vice President Jerome Sorkin Education and Lifelong Learning Vice President Amy Kaufman Goott Worship and Spirituality Vice President Mitchell Solkowitz Administrative Vice President Larisa Avner Trainor Community Vice President Carolyn Weinberg Development and Finance Vice President Bradley Wine Treasurer Robert Rubin Secretary Sharon Zissman Scroll Committee [email protected] Janet Meyers, Chair, Sharon Apfel, Judy Futterman, Mara Greengrass, Davida Kales, Marci Kanstoroom, Helen Popper, Kim Redlich, Marsha Rehns, and Jerry Sorkin. 4U editor: Jennifer Katz Scroll Design and Layout Adina Moses [email protected] 2 Scroll, USPS Number 009813, is published monthly by Congregation Beth El of Montgomery County, 8215 Old Georgetown Rd., Bethesda, MD 20814. Periodical postage rate paid at Bethesda, Maryland and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Scroll, 8215 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD 20814. Shabbat Across America, March 1 By Rabbi Laura Rappaport, Beth El Family Education Specialist “More than the Jews have kept Shabbat, Shabbat has kept the Jews.” This expression that the Shabbat day is the very heart of our heritage was written by Zionist thinker, Ahad Ha-am. How beautiful that we are a people united by sacred time, carved from each hectic, frenzied week. The Shabbat day is our holy opportunity to connect with loved ones, our highest values, and God. This most ancient of observances is more relevant than ever to spiritual health in an often-overwhelming modern world. On Friday evening, March 1, Beth El will join with hundreds of synagogues nationwide to encourage celebration of this most holy of Jewish days as part of Shabbat Across America, a project of the National Jewish Outreach Program. This is the second year that Congregation Beth El has participated as an official program site for SAA. As part of our SAA observance, all Beth El members are invited to participate in a musical, family-friendly service (featuring Beth El’s own Marak HaYom) and dinner. We are especially encouraging individuals and families who have not yet incorporated Shabbat observance into their Jewish lives. You may also order a Shabbat-in-a-Bag kit, which contains lovely Israeli candles, kosher grape juice, challah, chocolates (perhaps not mentioned in the Talmud, but necessary for any special occasion), and a guide to Shabbat home observance. Also plan to join Sisterhood for a challah-baking workshop, Thursday, February 28, at 9:30 am (see page 4). Unplug Yourself For that same Shabbat, Beth El will be a partner in Reboot’s “National Day of Unplugging” (see more at http://www.sabbathmanifesto.org/unplug) for which individuals pledge to unplug their devices from Friday evening, March 1, through the end of Shabbat on March 2 in order to focus on face-to-face communication, quiet introspection, and connection with the natural world. On the Sabbath Manifesto Web site, you can find videos and articles from a variety of national sources on the crucial importance of regular “unplugging” to our intellectual, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Our Biblical ancestors could not have envisioned a world in which technology pulls us, distracts us, and demands our constant attention. They could not have foreseen how much greater would be our current need for Shabbat peace – necessary for the health and growth of our individual spirits, our family lives, and our communities. Join together with other Beth El members to refresh our spirits and connect nonvirtually with one another. We hope to see you at shul on Friday night, March 1. n In a New Year with a New Congress and a New Presidential Term “Making Our Democracy Work” Monday, February 25, 7:30 pm at Beth El U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justice Stephen G. Breyer in dialogue with Kenneth R. Feinberg, Esq. Attendance is free. Honoring the Legacy of Rabbi Samuel Scolnic: A Rededication of Beth El’s Adult Institute Wednesday, February 13, 7:30 pm (snow date - February 20) Congregation Beth El You are invited to a program to rededicate The Saul Bendit Adult Institute as: The Rabbi Samuel Scolnic Adult Institute Founded in 1977 in Memory of Saul Bendit Speakers: Rabbi William Rudolph, Beth El’s Senior Rabbi Dr. Emile Bendit, son of Saul Bendit z”l Rabbi Benjamin Scolnic, son of Rabbi Samuel Scolnic z”l, offering the keynote: Does My Father Still Live? Jewish Perspectives on the Afterlife A reception follows the program. There will be an opportunity to register for courses in the spring semester, starting March 5 and 6, of the newly renamed institute. Attendance is free. 3 Sisterhood Upcoming Sisterhood/Zhava Events Sunday, February 3, 10:00 am Author Beyhan Cagri Trock, The Ottoman Turk and the Pretty Jewish Girl Tuesdays, February 5, 12, & 26, 6:30 pm Mah Jongg Saturday, February 9, 10:00 am Zhava Learner¹s Service Sunday, February 10, 11:15 am Book Club, In the Garden of Beasts Tuesday, February 12 Provide dinner at Rainbow Shelter Tuesday, February 19, 7:15 pm Leesa Fine: “What Were the Rabbis Thinking?” Wednesday, February 20, 9:30 am HamantaschenBaking Workshop Thursday, February 28, 9:30 am, Challah-Baking Workshop Thursday, March 7, 7:30 pm Miriam’s Cup Workshop Miriam’s Cup Workshop Sisterhood Challah-Baking Workshop Reservation Form Led by Annette Abrams Thursday, March 7, 7:00-9:00 pm Fee: $18 per cup Name: _______________________________________ Annette will provide the materials and confidence to create your own hand-painted Miriam’s Cup for your seder table. Open to women, men, and youth, Thursday, February 28, 9:30am-11:45am Email: _______________________________________ Phone: _______________________________________ Enclosed is $2 in (circle one) cash/check made payable to Beth El Sisterhood. Please return this form with the workshop fee to Beth El, attention Sisterhood. 13 years and up. Space is limited. WHAT WERE THE RABBIS THINKING? Miriam’s Cup Workshop Registration Form Name_______________________________________ Email _______________________________________ Phone ______________________________________ Check amount $______________ ($18 per cup, payable to Beth El Sisterhood) RSVP by February 28 to Annette Abrams, [email protected] 4 Tuesday, February 19, 7:15 pm An erotic love poem? A spinmaster’s political guide? A great beach read? Join our own Leesa Fine as she uncovers these and other gems found in “Writings,” the fascinating and underappreciated third section of the Hebrew Bible. Discussion will center on one of this section’s famous literary jewels, the Book of Esther. For information on this Sisterhood/Zhava program, contact Susan Winarsky at 301-652-2606 or [email protected], or Marge London at info@ bethelmc.org. Book Club Discussion The Ottoman Turk and the Pretty Jewish Girl A Taste of Turkish Food and Culture In the Garden of Beasts by Erik Larson Sunday, February 10, 11:15 am - 12:15 pm For more information, please contact Marge London or Robin Jacobson at info@ bethelmc.org Sponsored by the Library Committee, Sisterhood, and Men's Club Explore Turkish culture, history, and cuisine through the eyes of author, architect, and artist Beyhan Cagri Trock. In her cookbook, The Ottoman Turk and the Pretty Jewish Girl, Trock tells the story of her Jewish mother and Muslim father living in Turkey. Her book is filled with recipes from both cultures in addition to an intriguing tale. Trock will speak at Beth El on Sunday, February 3, at 10:00 am. Sisterhood and Zhava are this presentation, discussion, and recipe sampling. Joinsponsoring us and sing and dance with timbrels fee for attending this event is $5 for JoinThe us and sing and dance with timbrels Featuring the musical talent of Beth El members and the musical talent of Featuring $8 for non-members. Beth El Sisterhood/Zhava Beth El Sisterhood/Zhava Annual Women’s Seder Annual Women’s Seder Calliope Calliope Beth El Sisterhood/Zhava Beth ElBeth Sisterhood/Zhava El Sisterhood/Zhava Sunday, March 10, 2013 Women’s Annual Women’s Seder Seder Annual Sunday, March 10, 2013 Seder Annual Women’s Join us and and sing and dance with timbrels Join us and sing with timbrels 5:30 pm Join us and dance singthe and dance with timbrels musical talent of Featuring the musical talent of Featuring 5:30 musicalpm talent of Featuring the Calliope Calliope Calliope “And Miriam…took a timbrel in her hand and all the women went “And Miriam…took a timbrel in her hand and the women went Sunday, March 10, 2013 out after her with timbrels and withalldances.” Sunday, March 10, 2013 Sunday, March 10, 2013 out after her with timbrels and with dances.” 5:30 pm pm Cost: $5:30 36 Sisterhood/Zhava Members 5:30 pm Cost: $ 36 Sisterhood/Zhava Members $ 40a timbrel non-members* “And Miriam…took in her hand and all the women went “And Miriam…took aout timbrel her hand all the women $after 40in non-members* “And Miriam…took a timbrel inand her hand and all thewent women went her with timbrels and with dances.” Please bringout size) forand thewith Community aftertimbrels her(any withand timbrels dances.” Based Shelter and out after hertoiletries with with dances.” “Wheat Money” (cash(any or checks) feed the hungry in ourShelter community. Please bring toiletries size) fortothe Community Based and Cost: $ 36 Sisterhood/Zhava Members “Wheat $Money” (cash or checks) to feed the hungry in our community. Cost: $ 36 Sisterhood/Zhava Members Cost: 36Note: Sisterhood/Zhava Members $ The 40 non-members* Seder fills up quickly - sign up early! $ 40 non-members* $ 40 non-members* Responses received after seating Note: The (any Seder fills upCommunity quickly -Based signhas up filled early! Please bring toiletries size) for the Shelter and Please bring (any size) the Community Based and Money” (cashfor orthe checks) to feed the hungry in our community. Please bring“Wheat toiletries (any size) Community Based Shelter and ortoiletries after March 1for will be placed on a Shelter wait list. Responses received after seating has filled “Wheat Money” (cash to or feed checks) to feed the hungry in our community. “Wheat Money” (cash or checks) the hungry in our community. or after 1 will be placed onearly! a wait list. Note: TheMarch Seder fills up quickly - sign up Note: Thebe Seder fills -upsign quickly - sign upfilled early! Dinner. We will serving a Sephardic Responses received after seating has Note: The Seder fills up quickly up early! Responses received after seating after be March 1seating will be placed on ahas waitfilled list. Dinner. We or will serving a Sephardic Responses received after has filled Seder is open seating. or after March 1 will be placed on a wait list. or after March 1 will be placed on a wait list. Seder isaopen seating. We will be serving Sephardic Dinner. The Cups will be dedicated to our clergy wives/mom. We will be serving a Sephardic Seder is open seating. We be serving a Sephardic Dinner. Thewill Cups will be dedicated to ourDinner. clergy wives/mom. Seder is open seating. The Cups will be dedicated to our clergy wives/mom. NO PHONE RESERVATIONS AT THE DOOR Seder is OR openPAYMENT seating. The Cups will be dedicated to our clergy wives/mom. NO PHONE RESERVATIONS OR PAYMENT AT DOOR THE DOOR The Cups will be dedicated to our clergy NO PHONE RESERVATIONS OR PAYMENT AT wives/mom. THE Beth El Women’s OR Seder Reservation NO PHONE RESERVATIONS PAYMENT AT THE DOOR NO PHONEcan RESERVATIONS PAYMENT AT THE DOOR (using the Paypal link) Beth ElOR Women’s Seder Reservation Reservations alsoBeth be made on line atSeder www.bethelmc.org El Women’s Reservation El Women’s Reservation(using the Paypal link) Reservations can alsoBeth be made on line atSeder www.bethelmc.org Reservations canBeth also made on line at thelink) Paypal link) Elbe Women’s Seder Reservation Reservations can also be made on line at www.bethelmc.org www.bethelmc.org (using(using the Paypal Name and Guest Names (limit: 2(limit: guests):____________________________________________________ Name and Guest Names 2on guests):____________________________________________________ Reservations can also be made line at www.bethelmc.org (using the Paypal link) Name and Guest(limit: Names2(limit: 2 guests):____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ Name and Guest Names guests):____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ Email ________________________________________________________________________________ Name and Guest Names (limit: 2 guests):____________________________________________________ Email ________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ Email _____________________________________________________________________________________ Phone________________________________________________________________________________ Number________________________________________ Send to: Email Phone Number________________________________________ Send to: Email ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ Phone Number________________________________________ Send El to: # of Sisterhood members @ $36 __________________________ Beth Phone Number________________________________________ Send Number________________________________________ Send to: # of Sisterhood members @ $36 __________________________ Beth El #Phone of Sisterhood members @ $36 __________________________ Beth to: El Seder # of Zhava members @ $36 _____________________________ Attn: Sisterhood #members ofmembers Zhava members @ $36 _____________________________ Attn:Beth Sisterhood SederRoad Sisterhood# @ $36 __________________________ Beth El of Non-members @ $40 _______________________________ 8215 Old Georgetown ###ofof Sisterhood @ $36 __________________________ El of Zhava members @ $36 _____________________________ Attn: Sisterhood Seder # of Non-members @ $40 _______________________________ 8215 Old Georgetown Road # of Zhava members @ $36 of_____________________________ Attn: Sisterhood Seder Total Amount Check $ ________________________________ Bethesda, MD 20814 ##ofofZhava members@ @$40 $36_______________________________ _____________________________ Attn: Sisterhood Seder Road Non-members 8215 Old Georgetown Total@ Amount of Check $ ________________________________ Bethesda, MD 20814 # of Non-members $40to_______________________________ 8215 Old Georgetown Road (made out Beth El Sisterhood) #Total of Non-members @ $40 _______________________________ 8215 Old Georgetown Amount of Check $ ________________________________ Bethesda, MD 20814 Road (made out Beth El Sisterhood) NUMBER OF VEGETARIAN MEALS REQUESTED _____ Total Amount of Check $ to ________________________________ Bethesda, MD 20814 NUMBER VEGETARIAN MEALS _____ Are you aOF vegetarian who eats fish?REQUESTED Yes____ Bethesda, No____ Total Amount of Check $ ________________________________ MD 20814 (made out to Beth El Sisterhood) (made out to Beth El Sisterhood) Are you a vegetarian who eats fish? Yes____ No____ NUMBER OF VEGETARIAN MEALS REQUESTED _____ NUMBER OF VEGETARIAN MEALS REQUESTED _____ (made out to Beth El Sisterhood) *Please Sisterhoodwho witheats all itsfish? benefits for $36 and pay the member price. Are you join a vegetarian Yes____ No____ Are youOF a vegetarian who eats fish? Yes____ NUMBER VEGETARIAN MEALS REQUESTED _____ *Please join Sisterhood with all its benefits for $36 and pay the memberNo____ price. Are you a vegetarian who eats fish? Yes____ No____ *Please join Sisterhood with all its benefits for $36 and pay the member price. *Please join Sisterhood with all its benefits for $36 and pay the member price. *Please join Sisterhood with all its benefits for $36 and pay the member price. 5 Men's Club Health Care Speaker On Sunday, February 17, at 10:00 am, author Rosemary Gibson will speak to the Beth El Men’s Club about healthcare in the U.S. Ms. Gibson is the principal author, with Janardan Prasad Singh, of The Battle Over Health Care: What Obama’s Reform Means for America’s Future, a non-partisan analysis of “Obamacare.” As senior program officer at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation in Princeton, N.J., for 16 years, Ms. Gibson was chief architect of its $200 million national strategy to establish palliative care in the U.S. health care system. She worked with Bill Moyers and Public Affairs Television on the PBS documentary, “On Our Own Terms,” about how the U.S. health care system can better care for seriously ill patients and their families. Ms. Gibson is also author of Wall of Silence, which contains narratives of patient experiences with medical errors, and The Treatment Trap, which examines unnecessary medical treatments. n Beth El Men’s Club presents the 2013 Purim Carnival Sunday, February 24 11:45 am to 3:00 pm Games, fun, prizes, food, and a magician! Tickets: 3/$1 in advance 2/$1 at the door Buy tickets on Sundays at Religious School drop-off. Upcoming Men’s Club Events Sunday, February 3, 8:45 am World Wide Wrap will be held at the morning minyan. Sunday, February 10, 10:00 am Akiva Lichtenberg will talk about Uri L’Tzedek, an Orthodox social justice organization guided by Torah values and dedicated to combating suffering and oppression. Sunday, February 17, 10:00 am Rosemary Gibson, national leader in U.S. health care, will discuss her recent book The Battle Over Health Care:What Obama’s Reform Means for American Health Care Costs. Sunday, February 24 Purim Carnival 6 Learning to appreciate a good brewski at the Men's Club tasting in December. Photo by Mitchell Solkowitz Youth Activities Don’t Miss the USY Silent Auction By Adam Zeren One of the biggest thrills the teens at Beth El get is the opportunity to repair the world. All the Youth Groups do many tikkun olam activities, such as building stuffed bears for sick and homeless children and brightening up animal shelters. But the silent auction that USYers run during the Men’s Club Purim Carnival is easily the most fun activity they have each year. The USY Purim Silent Auction has raised more than $13,000 over the past five years I’ve been youth director. Much of the money we have raised has gone to the National Tay Sachs Foundation. We’ve also donated to many other organizations including Magen David Adom and the Dysautonomia Foundation. The teens who make up the USY board spend hours of their free time going to area businesses soliciting donations to the auction. Then they dedicate the entire Sunday of the carnival to set up the auction items and tables and promote the auction to the hundreds who attend.This year, the Purim Silent Auction will be held on February 24, from noon until 2:30 pm. Our auction items will include two pairs of VIP tickets to "The Daily Show With Jon Stewart," two tickets to a Washington Nationals game, Shabbat dinner with Rabbi Harris, video editing services for your simcha, babysitting, coffee from Quartermaine Coffee Roasters, and much more. The success of the auction also depends on you. In addition to all of the incredible fun of the carnival, please help support our great causes. Mazal tov to Beth El's Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School seniors, who graduate on February 10. From left to right: David Kessler, Olivia Farber, Tamar Eisen, Elana Handelman, Michael Paretzky, and David Solkowitz. February Happenings We also have many other amazing activities going on this month. February's highlight is the annual Winter Fun Extravaganza for 9th through 12th graders, Saturday and Sunday, February 9-10. The Extravaganza is an overnight ski, snowboard, and snow-tubing trip to Seven Springs in Western Pennsylvania. There’s still space available, so sign up now! The 6th through 8th graders are also going away this month to join 150 other middle-school kids for the Winter Kadima Kallah at Capital Camps. Snow tubing is part of this trip as well. It takes place Friday through Sunday, February 15-17. Our Bonim (K-2) kids will celebrate Purim with 25,000 Lego bricks on Sunday, February 10. Keep up to date with all of the Youth Group events through email or get in touch with me at [email protected]. n Beth El’s Shir Atid children’s choir, directed by Sandy Lederman, performed at the kickoff event celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington in January. 7 Off the Charts & Off the Bimah Musician-in-Residence Weekend by Hazzan Matthew Klein Beth El’s Musician-in-Residence Weekend was a huge success. Not just because we had a great time singing; we did. And not because it made everyone happy; it didn’t. But because the weekend challenged us to ask deep questions about how we sing together and how we pray together. How does having a visual aid (being able to see the Hazzan or leader) advance prayer and how it can engender passive, responsibility-free roles for worshipers? How does the placement of the leader affect participation? How does where we sit in synagogue affect our musical and spiritual experience? Our guide to answering these questions was Joey Weisenberg, one of the foremost composers, prayer leaders, teachers, and musicians in the world of independent minyanim (prayer groups). While at Beth El, Joey was the center of a whirlwind of activity. He led Friday night services, worked with our minyanim, harmonized during Musaf, gave a sermon, held a communal sing, and facilitated a Jewish Instrumental Workshop. The Beth El community had a blast and explored a lot of new ideas. Singing Close Together Our first idea was about space - that to sing together, we need to be close together. An a cappella group could never make harmony if the singers were spaced far apart; they simply couldn’t hear each other.Yet in churches and Special Service with Prayers and Songs of Comfort, Healing and Renewal: 7:15 pm, Sunday, February 24 Music-suffused traditions have long served to comfort us in the face of life's challenges and to help us find renewal when we, or others we know, are confronted by emotional, physical, or spiritual pain. In recognition of this truism, Evan Krame and Scott Glick have created a new service meant to engage the Beth El community in an exploration of faith, comfort, and healing through the liturgies, melodies, and poetry of Jewish music. Please join them for a special service on Sunday, February 24, at 7:15 pm, when they will incorporate traditional as well as contemporary prayers melodies in a special service, including some by the legendary Debbie Friedman (z"l), who has given the world Jewish music that is transformative, offering joy and comfort, hope and faith, healing and inspiration. The regular Ma'ariv service will take place immediately afterwards at 8:00 pm. synagogues, people often sit far away from one another and even farther from the leaders. Sometimes we do go to shul just to sit, to be quiet, to be alone, or to talk to people we care about, but if we are there to sing, we might also think differently about how we sit. Our second idea was about the placement of the hazzan or leader. One would never conduct an orchestra from the other side of a room - it is hard to communicate musically (and spiritually) at a far distance.Yet when the leader is moved off the bimah and into the congregation, it seems like there’s an empty space up front. Reconfiguring the Space Joey’s experiments at Beth El played with both of these questions, with the goal (well achieved) of getting the singing community closer together. On Friday night, the chapel was rearranged with the wooden reader’s desk in the middle of the room, with the chairs around it in a threequarter circle. We warmed up before services for half an hour with a niggun (wordless melody) so that we were ready to sing by service time. Other Beth El members and I also stood next to the prayer leaders and harmonized. The effect was transformative singing. For Musaf in the morning, instead of singing from the bimah, we moved a podium into the middle of the room, clumped some Beth El members around the podium, and led from there. The result? Singing that was - hands down - the best I have ever heard. To use a popular phrase, “the house was rocking.”You don’t have to take my word for it – two highlight recordings of that Musaf are available online (http:/ www.soundcloud.com/beth-el-melodies/sets/beth-el-sings/). Because with two Jews, you have three opinions, there were several objections to the singing. Some congregants were unable to hear the hazzan when he led Musaf (unamplified) and some felt disconnected if they couldn’t see the leader. Some were also a little taken aback at how bluntly Joey offered his message on Saturday as he challenged the current culture of synagogue music. These objections were important and made us think about our core values - making sure that everyone can hear and connect to the service. Continuing the Conversation Our time with Joey was well spent, and we had a ball. The success and conversations that we had demand a follow-up to see if this style of service can be helpful in augmenting the musical and spiritual quality of worship at Beth El. Several months ago, I wrote asking you to think of your continued on page 19 8 Library Corner Words Like Sapphires By Robin Jacobson A rare display of splendid Judaic treasures is on view at the Library of Congress in Washington until March 16. Showcased like royal jewels, these precious manuscripts, scrolls, and books invite visitors to imagine the long-ago and not-so-long-ago worlds of the Jews who labored over these texts, enshrining tradition in words and art. “Words Like Sapphires: 100 Years of Hebraica at the Library of Congress, 1912-2012” celebrates the centennial of the Hebraic collection of the Library of Congress.The exhibition’s sparkling “sapphire” imagery is taken from medieval writings, described in the visitor’s guide. Rabbis and poets likened “the clarity and brilliance of the well-chosen word and the beauty of the written page” to “shining sapphires.” You can take a special Beth El guided tour of the exhibition on Thursday, February 28 (see announcement, this page). A Seminal Gift In 1912, Librarian of Congress Herbert Putnam persuaded philanthropist Jacob Schiff to purchase for the Library a magnificent collection of nearly 10,000 Hebrew books and pamphlets from more than 300 localities and spanning almost 500 years. Befitting this grand beginning, the Library’s Hebraic Section has grown into one of the world’s great treasure houses of Judaica, with close to 200,000 works in Hebrew,Yiddish, Ladino, Judeo-Persian, Judeo-Arabic, Aramaic, Syriac, and Amharic. (A Beth El connection is that congregant Claire Marwick’s husband, Lawrence Marwick z”l, served as head of the Hebraic Section from 1948-1980.) Exhibition Highlights The exhibition encompasses 60 objects, each a gem with its own fascinating story. Here is a sample. • “The Washington Haggadah” (1478). Small in size for easy use at the seder table, this haggadah is celebrated for its beautiful calligraphy, vivid illumination, and subtle commentary implicit in the illustrations. The illustration of the wicked son, for example, is placed below and removed from the text, just as the wicked son removed himself from the Jewish people. • In another 15th century treasure, “Psalms with Commentary,” the heavy ink marks made by a zealous Christian censor have faded with time to reveal the original text underneath, almost as if the ordinary processes of nature were undoing the censorship. • Ironically, the author of the “First Hebrew Grammar in America” (1735) had to convert to Christianity in order to become a Hebrew instructor at Harvard College. For nearly 40 years, Judah Monis taught Harvard students, perpetuating the language of the religion he was forced to relinquish. • The publication of the “Hebrew Bible Printed in 1933” in Berlin coincided with the consolidation of Nazi power in Germany; nonetheless, two Bible verses promising that the Jews shall triumph over their enemies were defiantly printed in red. • Another moving Holocaust-era item is the 1948 “Talmud Created for Holocaust Survivors” living in Displaced Persons Camps. The Talmud’s cover illustration depicts a Nazi labor camp lined with barbed wire and contrasting, hopeful images of Israeli palm trees and scenery. • On a lighter note, it is hard to resist smiling at a Yiddish version of Winnie the Pooh, charmingly transliterated as “Vini-der-Pu.” • Another delight is “The Playing Card Art of Arthur Szyk,” a 20th-century cartoonist and illuminator. In Szyk’s deck of cards, each of the kings, queens, and jacks represents a Biblical figure. As King of Clubs, David holds his lyre, while the Queen of Diamonds, Deborah, a judge, is shown with the scales of justice. “Words Like Sapphires” is open Monday through Saturday, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm. Preview the exhibition online at www.loc.gov/exhibits. n Words Like Sapphires Guided tour of the 100th Anniversary Exhibition of the Hebraic Section of the Library of Congress, “Words Like Sapphires” Led by Dr. Peggy Pearlstein, head of the Hebraic Section, with Rabbi Greg Harris Thursday, February 28, noon – 1:00 pm Metro transportation recommended The tour is free, but attendance is limited, and registration is required. For more information and to register, please contact Robin Jacobson. ([email protected]). Sponsored by the Library Committee 9 Fifth Annual Latke-Hamantasch Debate By Linda Orenstein, Photos by Lee Shekter You’ve seen parades and performances. Perhaps you’ve traveled the world and viewed great wonders of nature, history, and culture.You may be acquainted with masterpieces of art, music, and theater. The Latke-Hamantasch Debate at Beth El includes all those delights, and you don’t have to leave Bethesda to get them. December 9, 2012, a few minutes before 10:00 am. The Swoff Memorial Chapel is filled with a boisterous crowd eager for the entertainment to begin. The microphone is switched on, ready for “testing, testing.” The computer equipment is set Herb Tanenbaum up and (presumably) functional to enhance debaters’ presentations. Jerry Danoff sounds his trumpet. The solemn procession of participants in their no-wash, no dry-clean robes (according to Rabbi Hazzan Matthew Klein Rudolph) enters the room, and the audience rises to its feet and applauds thunderously. The Fifth Annual Latke-Hamantasch Debate commences. After the singing of Hatikvah and the Star Spangled Banner, Rabbi Rudolph gave a brief history of the debate, noting that it started at the University of Chicago. Then, ever the just, impartial moderator, Rabbi Rudolph announced that there would be no coin toss. The coin toss had been abandoned because there had been issues about which coin was used and how far it rolled. He also said that there would also be no follow-up questions and that it was not actually a debate. Progress often means leaving some tradi- tions by the wayside. Feinstein for the Defense of the Hamantasch The first debater, Debbie Feinstein, was pro-hamantasch. She and her husband Steve, Beth El members for 15 years, founded Minyan Chaverim with Aryeh Portnoy. Debbie and Steve have two children, Noah and Tali. Debbie is an assistant state’s attorney for Montgomery County and chief of the family violence division. As she began, two young men declared the Court of Shushan in session. The case was that of the State versus Larry Latke. Debbie proceeded Debbie Feinstein to analyze a crime scene in the Beth El kitchen where oil had been stolen. The perpetrator was trying to sabotage Purim! According to Debbie’s brief, Larry had long lived in Harriet HamanPeter Friedmann taschen’s shadow, and the stress finally propelled him to resort to the crime and to “strike while the oven was hot.” He was obsessed with the sweet smell of hamantaschen and the portability of the Purim treat. A Timberland boot, an egg-cracking method, fingerprints, a prune-poppy witness, and the discovery of a quantity of oil at his home all pointed to Larry Latke’s guilt. Larry was caught and charged with theft, malicious destruction of property, and an attempt to derail the celebration of Purim. It was a tragic end to the career of a community latke maker. Friedmann for the People’s Latke Peter Friedmann, a lobbyist, was the first defender of the continued on page 13 10 Be Happy , It's Adar! Megillah Madness Director Steve Escobar Interviews Steve Escobar How long have you been a Beth El member? About seven years. My wife, Elisabeth, however, grew up a Beth El member. Her parents, Sheila and Henry Roth, were married here by Rabbi Scolnic in 1963. What is your theatrical and musical background? I was in a lot of plays in my high school in Georgia, but I was in only one musical – “The Sound of Music,” in which I played the Captain. It was a bit unusual since I was in the 10th grade and some of my “children” were a couple of years older than I was. I also competed in the state one-act play championships, which we won twice. I didn’t participate too much in theater when I was in college, but I actually was surprisingly quite involved in musical theater in law school. I went to Columbia, which turned out to be full of frustrated writ- ers, singers, actors, and dancers. In fact, Elisabeth and I met during one of these “Law Revue Shows.” After becoming a lawyer, I took another hiatus from acting, until about 10 years ago, when I became active in community theater in our area. I did several plays at Rockville Little Theatre and Silver Spring Stage. My favorite of these was a socialist Italian farce, “We Won’t Pay! We Won’t Pay!” for which I received a best actor nomination in the D.C. area community theater “Oscars.” In 2006, after 16 years of practicing law, I decided to make a career change and became a residential real estate agent. Building my business from the ground up didn’t leave a lot of time for theater, so when Elisabeth suggested I become involved in Megillah Madness, I was hesitant at first. But then I saw continued on page 14 Writing the Whole Megillah (Madness) By Mara Greengrass The annual Purim shpiel is one of the biggest events at Beth El; crowds of 700-800 people are a yearly sight. What many people don’t realize, however, is how much work goes into planning Megillah Madness. I have (thankfully, gratefully, and deliberately) never directed the event, but I’ve been a writer for the past few years, so I can provide some insight into part of the massive process. Did you know that writing often begins in June? Since we’re not exactly full-time shpiel employees, planning begins over the summer to give us as much time as possible. The director comes up with a theme (such as Billy Joel, Disney, or Cole Porter) and either provides a list of songs to parody or gathers writers together to come up with that list. And then the solo work begins. Personal Approach Each writer has his or her own way of creating a parody, but I begin with the song’s theme, looking at the chapter of the Book of Esther it will accompany. Then I copy the current lyrics of the song into a Word document and examine the structure. I’ll look at the rhyming scheme, the repetition, and what the song is saying. Last year, for example, I wrote the closing number, “Anything Goes (in Shushan).” It had to include the Jews’ winning the day, but the original song suggested I could take it one step further. Not only had the Jews won, but now we can also live together with people of all different races, religions, and creeds. Each verse described continued on page 14 11 Be Happy, It's Adar! Continued Soon-to-Debut at a Shabbat Kiddush All preschool-aged children and their families are invited to Sunday, February 24 11:00 am—11:45 am Featuring Rechov Shushan with Beth El’s own Sesame Street Players! Exciting changes are coming to Shabbat kiddushim as Sisterhood keeps an eye on the health of the congregation and the planet. To start, the Catering Committee has decided that all purchased food will arrive via bicycle courier. Keep an eye out for the new delivery service. The recently purchased house has been torn down and will be replaced by a vegetable and grain garden, tuna and herring pond, and free-range chicken enclosure to provide ingredients for new menus such as this one: • Old Georgetown Road tuna salad with an infusion of herring foam • Beth El free-range egg salad • Chai 18-grain bagels with ingredients from the Beth El garden • Heavenly brownies made with cocoa grown in the shade of the rear of the sanctuary. Sunday February 24 5:30-7:00 pm Bender Social Hall $25 per family includes pizza, drinks, and snacks Elvis and the BeATLES: LIVE IN SHUSHAN Saturday, February 23, 8:00 pm Megillah Madness is a musical extravaganza and a great way to celebrate Purim! It combines the reading of selected verses of the Megillah with musical parodies, all written and performed by members of Beth El. A brand-new production – “Elvis and the Beatles: LIVE in Shushan” – is slated for this year, and it will prove to be fun for all ages, so don’t miss it. Please note: A traditional reading of the Megillah will also take place on Saturday evening, February 23, at 8:30 pm. 12 Be Happy, It's Adar! Continued Latke-Hamantasch Debate continued from page 10 comes from the olive groves of the wicked. latke. A latke necklace with a latke on a plate underscored The Hazzan summarized the opposing foods in simple his preference. Peter declared he was a “layman for the terms. The latke, a circle, may lead to paganism, as in Stonelatke” and railed against the “big talent” (lawyer and clergy) brought in to defend the hamantasch. He compared it to the henge, a séance, the Kabbalah, Madonna, and the Dallas Cowboys’ stadium. The latke is violent, oily, dull, wicked, condefense team of the O. J. Simpson case. servative, stingy, and faithless. The hamantasch, by contrast, is Peter cited one authority on Jewish cuisine – the monotheistic, charitable, and righteous. Manischewitz Company. He pointed out that many mixes Tanenbaum for the Long-Lived Latke are sold to make latkes, but no hamantaschen mixes exist. The final debater, Herb Tanenbaum, Peter had polled delicatessens – Katz’s, a board-certified internist and cardiLansky’s, and the Carnegie Deli – none ologist, presented a case for the latke. ever sold hamantaschen. But…they Herb, a long-time Beth El member, sold latkes daily. served as governor for the American Peter displayed charts showing College of Cardiology. He established wheat subsidies. The potato requires no the cardiac lab at Washington Hospital subsidies. He explained that in the biand the cardiac rehabilitation program partisan states of Washington, Oregon, at the JCC. and Idaho, Republicans and DemoHerb analyzed his favorite food, the crats coexist amicably. They are models latke, from several perspectives includfor the rest of the country. The shape ing scientific, economic, and religious. of the latke is round, like the Round Debate judge Rabbi Bill Rudolph He indicated that research into the Table. The latke is a symbol of equal molecular structure of the potato latke status, a circle of equality. The rabbi was being considered for a Nobel quipped that Peter was “appealing to Prize. Herb revealed that archeologists the women’s vote.” had analyzed DNA from the patriarchs Hazzan Klein for the Holy Haand matriarchs. The DNA resembled mantasch that of the potato latke, not of the haHazzan Matthew Klein supported the mantasch. hamantasch. The second full-time hazA successful businessman backs a zan at Beth El, Hazzan Klein is the product that needs no changes, Herb editor of Sacred Sounds, the Cantors Ascontinued. This epitomizes the potato sembly lay newsletter, and is a founding latke, the same for centuries. The hamember of the Wizards of Ashkenaz, a Hamantasch and latke in a mantasch requires improvements such Jewish singing group. midnight wrestling match as different fillings. Herb suggested that Hazzan Klein stated there is “pernicious danger” inherent in the latke. The hamantasch traces its origin filling a hamantasch with potato latke would be a definite upgrade. to the Book of Esther and is canonical. The latke appears in When it comes to religion, the latke rules. The Book the books of the Maccabees and not in the Bible. Jewish valof Genesis, Herb claimed, indicates that the latke existed ues, gifts to others, and charity for the poor may be traced to in the Garden of Eden. If Eve had served latkes instead of the Book of Esther, a savvy Jewish heroine. The Book of the hamantaschen with apple filling, we would all still be in the Maccabees, deplorably, contains no female characters. According to Hazzan Klein, the hamantasch stands for the Garden of Eden. Rabbi Rudolph declared that everyone in the audicore precepts of Judaism - Torah, prayer, and good works. The ence had two votes. He called for votes for latkes and for gematria (numerical value) of the hamantasch is 404, which equals religion, faith, law and justice. The gematria of the latke hamantaschen, and hands were raised. Then he declared the debate-non-debate a tie and sent everyone into the Zahler is 445. This may translate to “bitterness.” So a life filled with Social Hall for latkes and hamantaschen. n latkes might be a life full of bitterness. The oil of the latke 13 Be Happy, It's Adar! Continued Steve Escobar INterview continued from page 11 the “Billy Joel” show, and I caught the fever again. I volunteered to be in “Shush-A-Lot,” and director Alan Simon kindly gave me a nice role. The next year, he gave me my own group to direct in “A Very Disney Purim” – my first directing experience ever. And then, the coup de grace: he offered me “the whole megillah” for the following year. After a lot of consideration, I accepted, and it’s really been a wonderful experience. What’s the best part about being the director of Megillah Madness? I love picking the themes and the songs for the shows. This is the most creative and fun aspect of my job – kind of an early reward for the work that is to come. I have unusually “old” tastes in music – hence last year’s Cole Porter theme and this year’s Elvis/Beatles show. In fact, my worst nightmare – whether as a director or a performer – would be a show spotlighting modern pop music, as my favorite period of music is from about 1915 to 1964. My children, Miranda and Nicolas, love to play a game with me in which they play songs from their phones or MP3 players and ask me to guess the artist. I pretty much guess Kylie Minogue for every song until one of her songs actually comes up. What’s the worst part about being the director of Megillah Madness? My one regret about being the director of Beth El’s Megillah Madness is that I can’t do it full time. Seriously. As with all “extracurricular” projects we undertake, family, work, and other personal obligations limit the total commitment that even an obsessive perfectionist can devote to a task as delightful as putting on a show. How early in the year do you start preparing for the show? I’m now in my second season as director, and a clear pattern has emerged. Postpone when work gets crazy (in residential real estate, this year was particularly so), postpone when the kids’ schedules require extended shuttling and attending, and postpone for sleep. And then, sometime around the third week of August during our annual sojourn to the Outer Banks, it happens. PANIC. It is at that moment that I call upon the most powerful reserves of energy and commitment that I possess - the Megillah Madness team of writers. Headed by Mara Greengrass, this year’s crew includes Rachel Gafni, Sheldon Novek, Alan Simon, and Joel Taubenblatt. They are all veterans of this process, having written several songs for me last year and for Alan and other directors who preceded me. They invariably pull my kishkes out of the fire by generating eight to 10 songs of incomparable quality that make me laugh and sway as I sing along to them at my computer. And speaking of people who save me, in addition to the writers, if it weren’t for the performers, band members, cheerleaders, chapter sign holders, stage hands, office and facilities staffs, and all the folks who coordinate these people – first and foremost among them assistant director Alisa Lipkind, whose unenviable task is to coordinate me – the show could not go on. So, all in all, Megillah Madness is emblematic of the best of Beth El - a community that comes together to have fun, support one another in times of need, and ultimately do good acts – 10 of them, in our case. I hope you and your families will enjoy this year’s Megillah Madness, “Elvis and the Beatles: LIVE in Shushan,” as much as everyone on the Megillah Madness team will enjoy putting it together for you. n Writing the WHole MEgillah continued from page 11 people we can now co-exist with. That makes it sound like a quick process, which (for me) it decidedly isn’t. I break out my beloved rhyming dictionary and figure out how my idea fits with the song structure. Then it’s a slow slog of coming up with ideas for each verse and making them fit the number of syllables and correct word emphasis from the original. It doesn’t matter how clever my words are if they can’t be sung to the tune! Bridging the Chapters For several years, I’ve also jumped at the opportunity of writing the narration that occurs between the Megillah chapters and the songs (even though, as my husband pointed out to me, “nobody listens to the narration”). I actually find this task harder than writing the songs. The goal is to write something 14 pithy and witty that bridges the gap between the chapter and the song, which usually only covers one small part of the chapter’s story. Some years I think my narration is good (Disney), and some years I realize that all the funny lines were added in by the director after I finished writing (Cole Porter). Once the songs are collected from all the writers and passed on to the director, my job is done. The director gets the unenviable task of finding performers, divvying up songs, and making sure groups rehearse. My hat is off to all the cast and crew that bring you your yearly fun because they work harder than you imagine. Writing Megillah Madness always ends up being more stressful than I remember, but I wouldn’t miss it for the world! n SHIR ATID 4 U Photos by Marci Ruderman and Ben Katz Beth El’s Children’s Choir, Shir Atid (Song of the Future) has been very busy over the past couple of months. The choir, led by the incomparable Sandy Lederman, includes students in grades 3 – 7, and rehearses every Thursday at Beth El. So far this year, they have performed to rave reviews at the Interfaith Thanksgiving concert in November and at the Rockville JCC’s Centennial kick-off celebration in January. Next up, Shir Atid will open the Friday evening service on January 25. The Choir will continue entertaining the community when they take to the stage on February 23 during Beth El’s renowned Megilla Madness program. Here are some highlights from Shir Atid’s annual December holiday variety show, Maccabean Idol. Individual and group acts performed just for fun, in front of a small audience comprised of choir members and their families. The judges, Beth El’s Rabbi Greg Harris and Elisha Frumkin, were amazed and delighted by all the students’ incredibly diverse talents. 15 Ask the Clergy continued from page 1 tive meal. Fish or lamb heads are customary dishes, in order that we may celebrate the new year “at the head and not at the tail” (Deut. 28:13). Pumpkin (k’ra’a) in Hebrew bears resemblance to the word “to call (k’ra),” so we say “may our good deeds ‘Call/ pumpkin’ (yi-KRA) our merits before you.” You might try this in English, perhaps saying over the salad “Lettuce have a sweet and happy new year.” Or “may we relish our time together.” Or perhaps “may our roof have no leeks.” In conclusion, I offer you my own personal stash of food-related puns (prepared with the help of my colleagues in the Wizards of Ashkenaz). These are the culmination of my life-long aspiration to be the proprietor of a kosher Mexican restaurant called BURRIT-Olam. Featuring a broad menu of Jewish-Mexican favorites, including Ve’Ahav-tacos, Menschiladas, Ir Tzion Tamales, HaKadosh BBQ, Pidyon HaBean, Tofu Vavohu, Talmud Torah-tillas, Chiri-biri-chimmichangas, El Guaca-Mole, and Rachamim Sour Cream (pareve, of course). And wash it all down with an ice-cold glass of Cola-Neshama. Everything above will be funnier the more time that you spend in synagogue. And if they’re not funny yet...come to shul! Author’s note: Financial backers should email Hazzan Klein privately for investment information. n 16 Congregation Beth El is proud to be a participant in Shabbat Across America on Friday, March 1 Join us for some or all of the Shabbat activities we have planned: Purchase a Shabbat-in-a-Bag kit for $15 (Includes candles, challah, grape juice, and other Shabbat goodies and info in a reusable Beth El shopping bag) Sisterhood Challah-Baking Workshop on Thursday, February 28, at 9:30 am Special Friday evening service with Marak HaYom at 6:30 pm followed by Congregational Shabbat Dinner For more information, contact Rabbi Laura Rappaport ([email protected] or 301-652-2606, ext. 310) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Shabbat Across America Congregational Dinner Reservation Form & Shabbat-in-a-Bag RSVP by Tuesday morning, February 26. Please make checks payable to Congregation Beth El and return to: Congregation Beth El Attn: SAA 8215 Old Georgetown Road Bethesda, MD 20814 Family Name(s) ________________________________________________________ Phone ________________________ Email _________________________________ _____ Shabbat-in-a-Bag @$15 each Total ________________ Dinner Reservations _____ # Member Adults/Teens @ $22 each Total _________________ _____ # Non-member Adults @ $27 each Total _________________ _____ # Children 6 - 12 @ $10 Total ________________ _____ # Children 2 - 5 @ $5 each _ Total _________________ Total Due (Household dinner maximum $64): _________________ Please provide ________ vegetarian meals. If vegetarian, is fish okay? _____________ Please list any food allergies __________________________________ I would like to sit with _______________________________________ Contributions Please remember that contributions can be made easily, quickly, and securely via our Web page – www.bethelmc.org Donations made from November 22 to December 19 Bendit Adult Institute Fund In Memory Of: Sarah Cherkas by Milton Nichaman Freda Rosenthal, mother of John Rosenthal, by John Rosenthal Beth El Forest In Memory Of: Eleonora Semo, mother of Joe Semo, by Joan and Joel Simon Leona Fribush, beloved mother of Gail Fribush, by the Bregman family Sylvia Ozarin by Lucy Ozarin Beth El Israel Fund By: Manuel A. and Solange L. Barrera Building Fund/Capital Campaign In Memory Of: Goldie Margolis Abelson by Dov and Sharon Margolis Apfel Howard Jacobs, father of Nancy Feldman, by Mark Levitt and Kay Klass Zelda and Herman Levine by Sandy and Dick Pollen Anna Dickler, mother of Elliott Dickler, and Benjamin Miller, father of Phyllis Dickler, by Elliott and Phyllis Dickler Cantor’s Fund In Honor Of: Hazzan Klein, for his presentation in support of the hamantasch by Rita and Irv Kopin Hazzan Klein for his help preparing Jenny for leading the Kabbalat Shabbat service by Shelly and Jerry Belson In Memory Of: Beloved father, Maurice Horowitz, by Rita Liebowitz Harold Feigenbaum by Kenneth Feigenbaum Sara Socher by Jorge and Sharona Sapoznikow My beloved mother, Ericka Kaplan, by Rosalie Sporn Chevra Kadisha Fund In Memory Of: Erika Meyerhoff, mother of Gabriela Bebchick, by Gabriela Bebchick Leona Fribush, mother of Gail Fribush, by Ellen and Norman Eule Henrietta Bruckheim by Arthur Bruckheim Disabled Access Fund In Memory Of: Shirley Orenstein, beloved mother and grandmother, by Audrey Berger General Fund In Honor Of: Doris Meyer’s 93rd birthday by Deborah Reiser and Bart Widom Ellen and Norman Eule by Rabbi Stephanie Bernstein and Henry Winokur Kay Klass and Mark Levitt by Stacey and David Topol, Susan Kitt and Steve Teitelbaum, and Susan D. and Howard Feibus Beth El staff by Bob Janney and Susan Levine Matthew Landy’s bar mitzvah by Dianne and Jonathan Brickman Harriet and David Brooks’ birthday by Susan Cohen Bnai mitzvah of Ruth Assal’s grandchildren, Emma and Oren, by Ann and Bruce Barcome Birth of Jacob Benjamin, first grandchild of Fran and Robert Rubin, by Kathy Hooley In Memory Of: Howard Jacobs by Deborah Reiser and Bart Widom Walter Solomon by Steve Solomon Gregory Dvorkin by Etia Dvorkina Margaret Kahn by Harriet K. Rabin Herb Levinson by Margie and Joe Hoffman, Diane and Laura Rosenberg, and June and Marty Levin and family My mother, Fay Yudkovitz Feibus, by Howard Feibus Gladys Eisler, sister of Howard Ratain, by Anita and Howard Ratain Rose Tilles and Morris Shapiro by Hy and Barbara Shapiro Regina Ohlbaum by Paul Love and Kathy Sklar Rose Wallerstein, mother of Gloria Derkay, by Gloria and Lee Derkay Klare Heinemann, aunt of Howard Stein, by Howard and Holly Stein Fred Schulman by Richard Schulman Ruth Zahler, mother and mother-in-law of Robert and Rhonda Zahler, by Beth El Sisterhood and Gale and Ron Dutcher Jordan Walerstein by Faith Walerstein Max Kurz by Leesa Fields and Jonathan Band Erika R. Behrend by Susan Jerison David Berkowitz by Dr. and Mrs. E. David Appelbaum Herbert Tabb by Abby Nathans Phyllis Frank by Wynne Sitrin Louis Rosoff by Janice Raffel Herb Levinson by June and Marty Levin and family William Davis by Libby and Harvey Gordon Elaine Silverman Gessow College Activities Fund In Memory Of: Alejandro Munster by Ricardo and Irene Munster Beloved grandmother, Emma Gessow, by Dr. and Mrs. Marc Michelson Beloved mother-in-law, Emma Gessow, by Mrs. Alfred Gessow Toni Bloom by Hellaine and Irwin Nepo Jeanette Rosing by Barbara and Douglas Rosing Groner Ramah Scholarship Fund In Honor Of: Harrison Arnberg’s bar mitzvah by Erwin and Leena Groner In Memory Of: Leona Fribush by Judith and Jonathan Levin Ernesto Rosenfeld by Erwin and Leena Groner Gideon Arie by Erwin and Leena Groner Kimball Nursery School Fund In Memory Of: Marc Russell Devinsky by Paul Devinsky Civia Berman and Evelyn Berman by Stuart Berman Library Fund In Honor Of: Cheryl Kreiser, for her invaluable services to Beth El, by Sabina Shalom In Memory Of: My beloved father, Abraham Bernstein, by Susan and Lewis Winarsky Robert Loss by Rita and Irv Weiss 17 Contributions Continued Litman Holocaust Education Fund In Memory Of: Abraham Yellowitz by Beatrice Y. Golfer Masorti In Memory Of: Mark Reed by Shimshon Plotkin Mazon In Memory Of: Milton Goldstein by Steven Goldstein Leon and Esther Matsas by Ninetta Feldman Mintz Landscaping Fund In Memory Of: Harry Bruckheim by Arthur Bruckheim Morning Minyan Fund In Honor Of: Peter Novick, in appreciation, by Andy and Katey Koblenz Sam Kessler’s aliyah by Sam and Miriam Kessler In Memory Of: Benjamin Levine by Shirley R. Levine Herb and Peggy Levinson by their children and grandchildren, Hellaine and Irwin Nepo, Lynn and Philip Metzger, and the Mahj girls Sylvia Cantor by Judy Goldman Isadore Routhenstein, our dear father, by Irene Routhenstein and Shirley R. Levine Edward Shapiro, beloved father, grandfather, and brother-in-law, by Madelyn Shapiro Benjamin Edenbaum by Bob and Sandy Edenbaum Harold Cohen, father of Barbara Lerman, by Barbara and Allen Lerman Prayerbook Fund In Memory Of: Our beloved grandfather and great-grandfather, Joseph Woolman, by the O’Brien family Samuel Orenstein by Alan Orenstein Beloved brothers, Reuven and Zeev Gendelman, by Boris Gendelman Abraham Katz by Linda Katz and Don Stein Minnie Bobb by Sharon Bobb Herb and Peggy Levinson by their children and grandchildren Rabbi’s Fund In Honor Of: Irene and Ricardo Munster by Reina Lerner Rabbi Harris by Lucas Kiel Rabbi Rudolph by Brenda Gruss and Daniel O. Hirsch Rabbi Rudolph, for his introduction and impartial mediation of the Latke-Hamantasch Debate, by Rita and Irv Kopin In appreciation of Rabbi Harris for our daughter Jenny’s bat mitzvah by Shelly and Jerry Belson In appreciation of Rabbi Rudolph by Cary and Nancy Feldman In appreciation of Sisterhood and members of the congregation for their support after the death of Regina Ohlbaum, our mother, mother-in-law, and grandmother, by Estie, Ed, Matthew, and Allison Lipsit In appreciation of Peter Novick for his support after the death of Regina Ohlbaum by Estie, Ed, Matthew, and Allison Lipsit 18 In appreciation of Rabbi Rudolph and Hazzan Klein for their support after the death of Regina Ohlbaum by Estie, Ed, Matthew, and Allison Lipsit Rabbi Rudolph, for leading the naming ceremony of Ella Sydney Stromberg, by Dan and Ariele Stromberg In Memory Of: My cherished father, Edward Ian Henry, by Tricia Sachs Leona Fribush, mother of Gail Fribush, by Rosine and Bob Nussenblatt, Hellaine and Irwin Nepo, Ace and Linda Lipson, and Lois Hartman and family My beloved mother, Edith Orban, and aunt, Lillian Stranszky, by Annamarie Sokoly Annie R. Sherman by Libby and Harvey Gordon My parents, Itz and Judy Fine, by Leesa Fine Beatrice Gilbert by Robert Gilbert Joseph Auerbach by Fran and Robert Rubin Fannie Stein by Ruth Stein Helen Fried by Jerry Herman My beloved mother, Romayne N. Bernstein, by Susan and Lewis Winarsky Ben and Ester Levin and Sylvia and Ben Lesselroth by Edgar Levin Howard Jacobs by Rhoda Jacobs Ruth Zahler, beloved mother of Robert Zahler, by Jerry and Ina Wernick and sons Abraham and Louise Wagman, and in appreciation of Rabbi Harris for his support, by Bonnie Wagman and Clif Hancock Louis Pernick by Irwin Pernick Irene Golden, beloved aunt of Jerome Wernick, by Jerome and Ina Wernick Robert Einzig by Judith and Bert Spector Gloria Orin and Leon Eisenstein by Harry and Rhonda Eisenstein Herb Levinson by Kathy Sklar Steven Michael Fefferman by Adeen Postar Israel Greenberg, Theresa Greenberg, and Daniel Greenberg by Lois Hartman and family Hyman Jacob Rifkin by Morton and Lillian Davis Enta Feldman by Reina Lerner Max Kurz by Fran Katz Watson and Robert Watson Benjamin Lerner by Reina Lerner Senior Caucus In Memory Of: My beloved mother, Carola Shapiro, by Yael Greenberg Dr. Elaine L. Shalowitz Education Fund In Honor Of: Louis Nagel’s years of service to Beth El education by Erwin Shalowitz Simos Music Fund In Memory Of: Lea Glick by Scott and Debbie Glick Sisterhood Kiddush Fund In Honor Of: Peter and Debbie Friedmann, for the Latke-Hamantasch Debate, by Rita and Irv Kopin In Memory Of: Florence Mermel, mother of Shoshannah Freilich, by Barbara and Barry Friedman and Judy and Murray Blank Ethel Reed by Shim Plotkin Contributions Continued Sisterhood Shiva Meal Fund In Memory Of: Howard Jacobs, father of Nancy Jacobs Feldman, by Estie and Ed Lipsit Sisterhood Torah Fund By: Hilda Getz In Honor Of: Marge London by Joan and Joel Simon and Ilene and David Jacobowitz Social Action Fund In Honor Of: Diana Huffman by Courtney Schenk Noah and Avi Kuperberg, for their introduction of Debbie Feinstein, and her presentation in Latke-Hamantasch Debate, Rita and Irv Kopin Cheryl Kreiser by Rita Kahn In Memory Of: Ruth Zahler, mother of Bob Zahler, by Michael Polis and Rhoda Barish Elaine Tanenbaum Religious School Enrichment Fund In Honor Of: Sheldon Novek by Lucas Kiel Rapid and complete recovery of Esther Isralow by Herbert Tanenbaum First great-grandchild of Sanford Kay by Herbert Tanenbaum Dina Kallay and Paula Kahn by the second grade Religious School class In Memory Of: Joseph Lieberman by Herbert Tanenbaum Herbert Levinson by Herbert Tanenbaum Transportation Fund In Memory Of: Julius J. Gottlieb, husband, Hyman D. Papernik, father, and Gussie Gottlieb, mother-in-law, by Charlotte Gottlieb Ernestine Goldstein, devoted mother of Judith G. Levin, by Judith and Jonathan Levin Barbara Wolf “Israel Quest” Fund In Memory Of: Florence Mermel, mother of Shoshannah Freilich, by Fay Rosen Wolf n HACHNASSAT ORCHIM: SHABBAT HOSPITALITY Volunteer homes are occasionally needed for Shabbat to offer sleeping arrangements and a possible meal for Shomer Shabbat visitors to Beth El. Please contact Marilyn Hammerman at 301-652-2606 or info@ bethelmc.org if you are willing to participate in this mitzvah. n Musician-in-Residence continued from page 8 favorite memory of singing together. It could be around a campfire, at a concert, at a Jewish event or not. Hold that thought in your mind, and think of the closeness of those who sing. In my heart, I’m hoping we can bring some of that closeness to Beth El -- some of which is the work of how we organize our musical space. But in the end, it is all the work of caring for each other that will bring the closeness and freedom that we desire. On the second Saturday of each month, starting on February 9, Beth El will host “Shabbat-in-the-middle,” in which the Shacharit and Musaf services will be led, amplified, from the middle of the room. It is our hope that this will not only enhance our singing but also encourage conversation about prayer at Beth El. Honest feedback, both positive and negative, will help our community grow. n INTERNET INVITATION AND STATIONERY PURCHASES CAN BENEFIT BETH EL For years, Beth El congregant and Sisterhood member Marilyn Hammerman has run an invitations and stationery service out of her home in North Bethesda. The proceeds of this service go entirely to Beth El’s Sisterhood and in turn benefit the Congregation. Now, those same purchases and the selection can be made online without leaving your home. In addition, Marilyn says she “will match prices of other invitation and stationery providers” and has “the best selection available.” Sisterhood and Beth El receive 100 percent of the profits.We can obtain invitations or stationery at the lowest prices available, and it is an easy process on line. So there’s no reason to use anyone else,” Marilyn said. For details on selecting and ordering invitations or stationery, contact Marilyn Hammerman by phone at 301652-2606 or at [email protected]. n 19 Congregation Beth El 8215 Old Georgetown Road Bethesda, Maryland 20814-1451 Periodicals Postage PAID Bethesda, MD 20814 While we know you’ll want to read every word in this issue of the Scroll, when you’re finished, please recycle it. Bulletin Board Mazal Tov to Alan and Deborah Pollack on the engagement of their son, Michael, to Lyndsi Silberman. Kerry and Carol Reynolds and Lee Harvey on the engagement of their daughter and granddaughter, Rachel, to Dean Baxtresser. Fran and Robert Rubin on the birth of their grandson, Jacob Benjamin Katthagen, on November 30, 2012. Proud parents are Elyse and Michael Katthagen. Jon and Sandy Simon on the engagement of their daughter, Ilana, to Terry Rubin. Rabbi Bill Rudolph and Gail Fribush on the engagement of their son, Marc Rudolph, to Karen Terry. Condolences to Sheldon Bolasny on the death of his mother, Celia Bolasny Ester Kurz on the death of her father, Max Kurz Estie Lipsit on the death of her mother, Regina Ohlbaum Joe and Judy Semo on the death of Joe’s mother, Eleonora Semo Noteworthy Senior Caucus Meeting, Wednesday, February 6, 1:00 pm. These vibrant, active retirees join to hear about the ongoing programs and plans new activities. Be one of them. This program is followed by: Roundtable with the Rabbi, Wednesday, February 6, 2:00 pm. Join us celebrate February’s birthdays (yours and those of others) with desserts, coffee, and an inspiring discussion lead by Rabbi Rudolph. The discussion is always lively and challenging. Birthday celebrants receive a special Send submissions to the Scroll to [email protected] invitation, but all are welcome. Dor L’Dor, Thursday, February 7, noon. Join the Beth El Preschool (BEPS) 4s Class,Vatikkim, and Senior Caucus for this intergenerational program connecting kids with seniors. To participate and share some pizza with the preschoolers, RSVP to Audrey Berger at 301-652-2606 or Ricardo Munster at 301-652-8569, ext. 316, or rmunster@ bethelmc.org. Senior Caucus Luncheon/Program, Thursday, February 14, noon. Following lunch, watch the film, “The Tomashefskys – Music and Memories of a Life in the Yiddish Theater.” The stage version of The Thomashefskys has been performed at sold-out houses in New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Miami, and Tanglewood in Massachusetts. The San Francisco Chronicle said, “Tilson Thomas and his collaborators do what Yiddish artists always meant to do. They make you forget your troubles for an evening, plunge into another world and feel your own more fully in the end.” Lunch costs $8.00. To RSVP for lunch, call Ricardo Munster at 301-652-2606, ext. 316 or [email protected] by Tuesday, February 12. The program is free and begins around 1:00 pm Senior Caucus Brown Bag Lunch, Thursday, February 28, noon. Come and socialize with your friends and enjoy some light refreshments and dessert. Bridge – the greatest game ever! Join us every Monday and now also on Thursdays (except the 3rd Thursday) from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. Drop in and join a game; no partner necessary. For information or transportation, contact Ricardo Munster at 301-652-2606, ext. 316 or rmunster@ bethelmc.org. Weekly Parashiot Source: Siddur Sim Shalom Yitro Terumah Moses spends much of his time explaining God’s statutes and laws to the people; his father-in-law, Jethro, suggests that he delegate some of this judicial authority. After ascending Mount Sinai to speak with God, Moses returns to prepare the people for Revelation. Amidst awesome thunder, lightning, and flame, God, glorious and holy, reveals to Israel the Divine Presence—and the Ten Commandments. While Moses remains on Mount Sinai, God provides detailed instructions regarding the construction and decoration of the Mishkan. This Tabernacle is to house the Ark and allow the Divine Presence to dwell among the people. February 2, 22 Shevat Mishpatim February 9, 29 Shevat The civil laws, along with moral and religious precepts, are presented after the Ten Commandments. The people accept the Torah wholeheartedly, vowing, “All that Adonai has commanded, we will do.” Israel affirms the Covenant, and Moses returns to Mount Sinai to receive the law, etched in stone, from God. February 16, 6 Adar Tetzaveh February 23, 13 Adar God commands that a lamp filled with oil should burn all night in the Mishkan, that priests serving therein should wear holy garments, and that the High Priest should wear a breastplate with 12 precious stones, one for each tribe. God provides directions for the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests and prescribes their duties. Beth El Calendar &Weekly Parashiot Descriptions of Services Minyan Chaverim offers the ruach of the Shabbat services in USY, BBYO, and Hillel. We have a lay-led, traditional, participatory, spirit-filled service, including full repetition of the Shacharit and Musaf amidah, as well as the full Torah reading with an interactive Torah discussion. A pot-luck lunch follows the service at a nearby home. For information, contact Debbie Feinstein or Sheryl Rosensky Miller at info@ bethelmc.org. The Worship and Study Minyan is conducted by members of the congregation and combines evocative Torah study with ample singing and ruach. Children are welcome, although the service is oriented toward adults. For information, contact Dan Hirsch, Sid Getz, or Mark Levitt at 301-652-2606, [email protected]. Teen Service is a cool service without parents, conducted by and for post-b’nai mitzvah teens, with a great kiddush. To volunteer to read Torah, conduct part of the service, or help with a discussion, contact David Solkowitz at 301-652-2606, [email protected] Other Youth /Family Services, for information, contact Elisha Frumkin, 301-652-8573, ext. 319, [email protected]. Daily Services M-F 7:30 am Sun-Th 8:00 pm Fri 6:30 pm Sun 9:00 am Shabbat Services (all services are weekly, except as noted) Early Morning Service Main Service Babysitting (2-6 years old) Minyan Chaverim (3rd Shabbat) Worship and Study Minyan (1st Shabbat) Mincha, Seudah Shlishit, Ma’ariv, & Havdalah (3rd Shabbat) Youth Shabbat Services 7:30 am 9:30 am 9:15 am 9:30 am 9:45 am 5:00 pm Teen Service (1st Shabbat) 10:00 am Junior Congregation (5th grade +; Library) 10:00 am Shitufim 10:30-11:30 am (2nd– 4th grades; 2nd & 4th Shabbat; Zahler Social Hall) Gan Shabbat (kindergarten-2nd grade; 1st & 3rd Shabbat; MP 1&2) 10:30-11:30 am Nitzanim (birth - kindergarten; 2nd, 4th, 5th Shabbat; MP 1&2) 10:30-11:30 am Congregation Beth El February 2013 Monthly Calendar Sunday 1 Shevat–Adar 5773 Monday 1 Sukkot Tuesday 1 New Year’s Day Wednesday 2 Thursday 3 Friday 1 Candles 5:11 pm 10:00 am BEPS Shabbat 6:30 pm Friday Evening Service 6:30 pm Nitzanim Kabbalat Shabbat 7:15 pm B’nai Mitzvah Family Dinner Saturday 2 7:30 am Early Shabbat Service 9:30 am Main Shabbat Service 9:30 am Eve Strickberger Bat Mitzvah 9:45 am Worship & Study Minyan 10:00 am Jr. Congregation 10:00 am Teen Service 10:30 am Gan Shabbat 12:40 pm Hazzan’s Shabbat Melodies Class 3 9:00 am Minyan 9:30 am Men’s Club Breakfast 10:00 am Men’s Club Program 10:00 am Sisterhood/Zhava Program 6:30 pm Yoga 7:00 pm Talmud Class 10 Rosh Hodesh Adar 6th Grade Brooklyn Trip 9:00 am Minyan 9:30 am Men’s Club Breakfast 10:00 am Men’s Club Program 10:00 am Adult B’nai Mitzvah Class 11:15 am Book Group 4:30 pm Nitzanim Pizza Party 6:30 pm Yoga 7:00 pm Talmud Class 17 Offices and Schools Closed 9:00 am Minyan 9:30 am Men’s Club Breakfast 10:00 am Men’s Club Program 10:00 am Megillah Madness Rehearsal 6:30 pm Yoga 7:00 pm Talmud Class 24 Purim 9:00 am Minyan 9:30 am Men’s Club Breakfast 11:00 am Bit O’Megillah 11:45 am Purim Carnival 5:30 pm Jewish Fdn. for Grp. Homes Purim Party 6:30 pm Yoga 7:15 pm Healing Service 4 1:00 pm Bridge 7:30 pm Boy Scouts 7:30 pm RS Committee Meeting 11 Rosh Hodesh Adar 1:00 pm Bridge 7:30 pm Boy Scouts 5 8:30 am A Taste of Talmud 6:30 pm Mah Jongg 12 8:30 am A Taste of Talmud 6:30 pm Mah Jongg 7:30 pm BEPS Board Meeting 6 9:00 am Rabbi’s Torah Class 9:30 am M. Fine Class 9:30 am Rabbi’s Haftarah Class 2:00 pm Roundtable with the Rabbi 13 9:00 am Rabbi’s Torah Class 9:30 am BEPS Juliet Wolff Session 9:30 am M. Fine Class 9:30 am Rabbi’s Haftarah Class 7:30 pm Bendit/Scolnic Inst. 7 Noon Senior Caucus 1:00 pm Bridge 8:30 pm Hearing Men’s Voices 14 Noon Senior Caucus 1:00 pm Bridge 7:00 pm Executive Committee Meeting 8 Candles 5:19 pm 9 10:00 am BEPS Shabbat 6:30 pm Traditional Friday Evening 7:30 am Early Shabbat Service 9:30 am Main Shabbat Service/Day 6th Grade Brooklyn Trip Service 6th Grade Brooklyn Trip School Shabbat 6:30 pm Kol Haneshama 10:00 am Jr. Congregation 10:00 am Learners Service 10:30 am Shitufim 10:30 am Nitzanim 15 Candles 5:27 pm 16 10:00 am BEPS Shabbat 6:30 pm Friday Evening Service Rededication Program 7:30 am Early Shabbat Service 9:30 am Main Shabbat Service 9:30 am Emma Sorkin Bat Mitzvah 9:30 am Minyan Chaverim 10:30 am Gan Shabbat 5:00 pm Shabbat Mincha, Seudah Shlishit, Ma’ariv, Havdalah 7:30 pm Israel Media Series 18 President’s Day 9:00 am Morning Minyan 25 1:00 pm Bridge 7:30 pm Boy Scouts 7:30 pm Feinberg/Breyer Dialogue 19 8:30 am A Taste of Talmud 6:30 pm Mah Jongg 7:15 pm Sisterhood Education Program 26 8:30 am A Taste of Talmud 6:30 pm Mah Jongg 7:30 pm Board Meeting 20 9:00 am Rabbi’s Torah Class 9:30 am M. Fine Class 9:30 am Rabbi’s Haftarah Class 9:30 am Hamantaschen Baking 27 9:00 am Rabbi’s Torah Class 9:30 am M. Fine Class 9:30 am Rabbi’s Haftarah Class 21 Fast of Esther 7:00 pm Sisterhood Exec. Board/Regular Board Mtng. 22 Candles 5:35 pm 6:30 pm Friday Evening Service 23 7:30 am Early Shabbat Service 9:30 am Main Shabbat Service 9:30 am David Huberman Bar Mitzvah 9:30 am Katie Rosenfeld Bat Mitzvah 10:00 am Jr. Congregation 10:30 am Shitufim 10:30 am Nitzanim 8:00 pm Megillah Madness 8:30 pm The Whole Megillah 28 9:00 am Sisterhood Challah Baking Noon Senior Caucus 1:00 pm Bridge 1 Candles 5:42 pm Shabbat Across America 10:00 am BEPS Shabbat 6:30 pm Friday Evening Service 7:15 pm Congregational Shabbat Dinner - Shabbat Across America 2 7:30 am Early Shabbat Service 9:30 am Main Shabbat Service 9:30 am Jessica Ravitch Bat Mitzvah 9:30 am Joshua Eisen Bar Mitzvah 9:45 am Worship & Study Minyan 10:00 am Jr. Congregation 10:00 am Teen Service 10:30 am Gan Shabbat 12:40 pm Hazzan’s Shabbat Melodies Class