April - May 2019 1 April - May 2019 | 5779 rodefsholomtemple.org Religious Services Rodef Sholom Temple 401 City Center Blvd. Newport News, VA 23606 (757) 826-5894 www.rodefsholomtemple.org Monday and Thursday: 7:45 AM Friday Evening: 6:00 PM, unless otherwise noted Shabbat Morning: 9:30 AM Office Hours Monday, Tuesday & Thursday: 9:00AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Closed Wednesday Other hours by appointment The Messenger Rodef Sholom Temple What A Story! Make no mistake about it! The story of Passover and of the Exodus from Egypt is not only a Biblical and an historical story. It is much more! As Jews, we repeat this story year after year because it has a strong, forward-looking message for each of us – for the young, for the old, and for everyone in between! It is, in fact, a story told throughout the ages. And, it is, without a doubt, a story for all ages! Rabbi’s Message - Rabbi Gilah Dror What makes the Passover story so special? The story of the Exodus is foundational to Jewish life and to Jewish thought. We teach it to our children, but we continue to learn from it throughout our adult lives as well. Year after year, we remind ourselves of our experience when we were slaves in Egypt. Only after we “revive” our ancient memory of being slaves in Egypt, can we appreciate the magnitude of the Exodus and its meaning for all generations. What does the memory of our enslavement in Egypt represent? Egypt was a place where huge disparaties in social status and in wealth led to the degradation of the value of life. And, the story of the Exodus from Egypt represents all that we consciously reject about the experience of enslavement. In the building of the pyramids, thousands upon thousands of slaves lost their lives, as their masters used them mercilessly to create great monuments. The monuments remain intact to this day. But those human beings, who lost their lives in the process of building the pyramids, are long buried and forgotten. The Torah wants us to appreciate what enslavement is really about. Only by facing that reality, can we hope to leave that existence behind. Only by re-enacting the Exodus can we continue our journey, walking step by step toward a different, more just and more compassionate, vision of human society and relationship. That is what the Exodus and the journey to the Promised Land was all about, then and now. While we may not be enslaved in Egypt any longer, we still live in a world where some of us are “privileged” and others of us are “underprivileged.” We still live in a world of huge disparaties; in a world of haves and have-nots. We still live in a world where some are significantly more powerful than others. It may not be the slavery of Egypt, but it isn’t the freedom that our prophets envisioned when they conveyed God’s word to us. We have a sacred mission, as Jews. We are commanded to remember what slavery means. We are commanded to follow God, away from slavery, toward freedom – toward the Promised Land! And, lest we think that we have already reached the Promised Land… As we tell and retell the story of Passover and of the Exodus, we are commanded to ask ourselves: to what degree we are still enslaved? And, to what degree we are still enslaving others around us? Ultimately, we must ask ourselves: What will the fulfillment of God’s vision of freedom for us, and for the continued on page 2
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April - May 2019
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April - May 2019 | 5779rodefsholomtemple.org
Religious Services
Rodef Sholom Temple 401 City Center Blvd. Newport News, VA 23606 (757) 826-5894 www.rodefsholomtemple.org
Monday and Thursday: 7:45 AM
Friday Evening: 6:00 PM, unlessotherwise noted
Shabbat Morning: 9:30 AM
Office Hours
Monday, Tuesday & Thursday:9:00AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Closed Wednesday
Other hours by appointment
The MessengerRodef Sholom Temple
What A Story!
Make no mistake about it! The story of Passover and of the Exodus from Egypt is not only a Biblical and an historical story. It is much more! As Jews, we repeat this story year after year because it has a strong, forward-looking message for each of us – for the young, for the old, and for everyone in between! It is, in fact, a story told throughout the ages. And, it is, without a doubt, a story for all ages!
Rabbi’s Message - Rabbi Gilah DrorWhat makes the Passover story so special? The story of the Exodus is foundational to Jewish life and to Jewish thought. We teach it to our children, but we continue to learn from it throughout our adult lives as well.
Year after year, we remind ourselves of our experience when we were slaves in Egypt. Only after we “revive” our ancient memory of being slaves in Egypt, can we appreciate the magnitude of the Exodus and its meaning for all generations.
What does the memory of our enslavement in Egypt represent? Egypt was a place where huge disparaties in social status and in wealth led to the degradation of the value of life. And, the story of the Exodus from Egypt represents all that we consciously reject about the experience of enslavement.
In the building of the pyramids, thousands upon thousands of slaves lost their lives, as their masters used them mercilessly to create great monuments. The monuments remain intact to this day. But those human beings, who lost their lives in the process of building the pyramids, are long buried and forgotten.
The Torah wants us to appreciate what enslavement is really about. Only by facing that reality, can we hope to leave that existence behind.
Only by re-enacting the Exodus can we continue our journey, walking step by step toward a different, more just and more compassionate, vision of human society and relationship. That is what the Exodus and the journey to the Promised Land was all about, then and now.
While we may not be enslaved in Egypt any longer, we still live in a world where some of us are “privileged” and others of us are “underprivileged.” We still live in a world of huge disparaties; in a world of haves and have-nots. We still live in a world where some are significantly more powerful than others. It may not be the slavery of Egypt, but it isn’t the freedom that our prophets envisioned when they conveyed God’s word to us. We have a sacred mission, as Jews. We are commanded to remember what slavery means. We are commanded to follow God, away from slavery, toward freedom – toward the Promised Land! And, lest we think that we have already reached the Promised Land… As we tell and retell the story of Passover and of the Exodus, we are commanded to ask ourselves: to what degree we are still enslaved? And, to what degree we are still enslaving others around us? Ultimately, we must ask ourselves: What will the fulfillment of God’s vision of freedom for us, and for the
continued on page 2
Rodef Sholom Temple
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Rodef Sholom Temple
401 City Center Blvd. Newport News, Virginia 23606
world around us, look like? To help us answer that question, let us ask ourselves the following questions:
Would we be satisfied with our world, in its present state, if we were not assured of being who we are in the world? Would we be satisfied to live in our world if we found ourselves walking around in someone else’s shoes? How would we feel if we were the stranger or the under-privileged person in our midst?
And, if the answer is that we would not be comfortable changing places with such a person – then we know that we have not yet arrived in the Promised Land. We have not yet seen the fulfillment of God’s vision for God’s world. We are still somewhere on the journey. That is the
forward-looking nature of the message of our Passover and of our Exodus story. We are still progressing, albeit slowly, toward God’s vision for a world of true justice and of compassion - toward a world in which life is sacred, life is valued and life is protected. Our awareness of the journey will help us progress toward a better tomorrow.This Passover, as we tell our story, yet again, may we remind ourselves that our story is not only for children, it is for all of us, and for all human-kind!
I take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones a Pesach Kasher v’Sameach – a kosher and a joyous Passover holiday!
Rabbi Gilah Dror
Rabbi’s Message continued from page 1
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April 9 & April 30
Tuesdays at Noon in RST’s New Nachman/Levin Library
Jewish Stories from the Past… for the Present! Tales from Midrash and Talmud
Happy almost Spring! As I pen this article, the temperatures are in the 60’s and hopefully it will not be too much longer before we see temps consistently in this range. I hope everyone celebrated “Pi Day” on March 14 (you know, Pi is 3.14) and enjoyed the pie of your choosing, either savory or dessert.
I also want to officially welcome our two newest staff members: Radie Maye, our new Temple Administrator and Bookkeeper, and Gavrielle Bargash, our new Director of Congregational Learning. Both Radie and Gavrielle come to Rodef Sholom Temple with a wealth of experience and both are now fully immersed in their duties and doing a great job, thanks to Tess’s tutelage and guidance. When you get a chance, please stop by the office and meet and welcome Radie and Gavrielle.
I really don’t know how to express my appreciation and gratitude to Tess Goldblatt for everything she has done for Rodef Sholom Temple for the past decade and then some. Tess has been our Temple Administrator and Director of Congregational Learning and has done an outstanding job in both capacities. I know that I could not have survived as President for the past 3 years had it not been for Tess and her assistance and wise guidance. I believe that I speak for the entire RST family when I say that we’re going to miss you, “Sh’ Mama”! Fortunately for us though, Tess will still be a part of our congregation and community. Yasher Koach, Tess!
This past month also saw two extremely well attended events on the campus. On Saturday March 9, the UJC held their once-every-three-year auction. The auction had a summer camp theme and was attended by over 200 community members. The night included wonderful comfort food provided by Richard and Evelyn as well as a silent auction and live auction. I attended with my son and daughter-in-law and we had a blast (and also came away with some great items). Dollars are still being counted, but by all accounts, the auction was a tremendous success.
On Sunday March 10, the annual Blue Yarmulke Person of the Year celebration, sponsored by the Seaboard Region of the Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs, was held, for the first time in our brand new building. Over 180 folks attended to celebrate the honorees from Congregation Beth El and Temple Israel, both in Norfolk, and our own honoree Barbara Gordon! Barbara is so deserving of this honor for all the work that she has done, and continues to do, for RST and the Jewish community at large. It was a wonderful morning seeing so many faces in our new building and celebrating with Barbara and her family and friends.
That’s about it for me…I hope you attended our Purim festivities and don’t forget that Passover is just around the corner. Be well!
B’ShalomSteve
President’s Message
Rodef Sholom Temple
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1. It is my secret desire to live :Dana said: on the Beach.
2. I am wild about __ and not so much about:Allen said: family time, traveling, and sports, in particular the Washington DC area sports teams. Dana said: History and not so much about Math.
3. I am looking for someone to go/do __ with me.Allen said: Go to a ball game, play a round of golf, and anyone who wants to practice and learn Shabbat Service parts, as I learn as well.
4. My favorite part of Rodef Sholom Temple is ____ and I wish:Allen & Dana said: Feeling of community as most everyone smiles and makes you feel welcome.Renee’ said: The Saturday Shabbat services, and I wish to continue participating.
5. You may be surprised to know that I :Allen said: I Was born in Luray, a small Shenandoah Valley town and as a teen moved to the Tidewater area and been here ever since. Renee’ said: I once chose having my parents pay for a Bat Mitzvah over having them pay for a wedding; however, they eventually did both.
6. My hobby/hobbies is/are:Allen said: being outside. Love activities like golf, kayaking, walking, and volunteer work.Dana said: Art, going to museums, and staying active.
7. My life’s work is/has been: Allen said:for 28 years working with individuals and businesses with their insurance needs.
8. I’m looking forward to saying:Allen said: ‘Mazal Tov’ to Dana for graduating from college
9. The accomplishment I am most proud of:Allen said: My journey to Judaism, learning to read Hebrew, and having an adult Bar Mitzvah.Renee’ said: Leading most of my Bat Mitzvah service which is more than what was common at that time.
10. My perfect day would be:Dana: going out with friends.
11. My motto is: Allen said: work hard and enjoy time off with family and friends.
12. If I won the lottery, my top 3 spends/gives would be:Allen said: Set up an endowment for RST, continue working yet take longer vacations.Renee’ said: to get a Ranch style house, travel to all the places I’ve wanted to see, and give a donation to RST.
13. My best ideas come to me when:Dana said: When I am in a happy participative mood..
14. I admire someone who is/does:Allen said: focused and driven to accomplish positive things in life, especially while facing unusual challenges in life. Dana said: : is open minded and questions their own ideas about things.
Meet RST Members Allen & Renee’ Fraley & Dana Fraley They live in the Carleton Falls neighborhood, Lee Hall area of Newport News
Members since: Renee’ since age 14, Allen since 1995, Dana lifetime.
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Many remember the articles I wrote for the Messenger when I was “just” working the education piece at RST. As soon as I also became the administrator, I noticed there was no room in my head for creative writing. So for seven years, I haven’t submitted an article like those in the first seven years. As my kids say, “It’s been a fat minute.”
I feel I want to say thank you and goodbye but not goodbye… and I feel I want to tell you some things I’ve learned about our congregation:
1. I once heard a visiting journalist say about us, “Rodef Sholom Temple is the smallest congregation that doesn’t know it.” My goodness, how I have come to understand how right she was! We tend towards doing things up right… and big! Our magnificent new building is proof of how our congregants pull together to do our jobs big and right. I’ve often said that at least I was paid to do my jobs. It’s the volunteers who really need the thanking. And to everyone, I’d say that not every single thing has to be done big. Sometimes keeping it simple means sparing the volunteers and paid staff from going into full throttle so often.
2. We describe ourselves as warm and welcoming, and we are… to prospective members, visitors, and each other. This year’s “Making Connections” dinner theme was designed to help us get to know each other better. Even after 14 years here, some people are just now coming up to me saying, “I never knew you were a paratrooper in the Army!” Take advantage of these “formal” formats to get to know each other better but also informal formats such as Kiddush lunches, breakfasts, and invitations to each other’s homes. A couple years ago, Rabbi and I marveled at all the metal structures and joints that were going into supporting the new building. Rabbi talked in her sermon that year about making the same kind of human connections to support the spiritual life of the congregation. And let us say, Amen.
3. I once wrote an article that Jewish education was like peeling back the many layers of an onion. Just when you think you have learned something, there is more to it. After all, 5,000 years of Jewish thinking and
history means a lot of lifelong learning is available to you. RST is a place where you can truly grow your Jewish education. Don’t know enough? Try teaching a religious school class with our ready-made lesson plans! It is the BEST way to learn, and when you don’t know an answer, every classroom has a white board “parking lot questions for the Rabbi.” Don’t know enough? Come to “Tuesdays with Rabbi” lunch and learns. Or just come to Shabbat morning services and read the English commentary while the Torah and Haftarah are being chanted. Participate in the discussion by asking a question. Tell Gavrielle Bargash and Rabbi if you want to become an adult bar or bat mitzvah! And tell me if you want to learn how to read Hebrew and even chant some, because between now and September, I’m taking appointments to tutor adult Hebrew at my kitchen table looking out on the Chesapeake Bay. Many of you don’t know I became bat mitzvah when I was 42. I was 45 when we arrived at RST. Everything else I have learned came at the elbow of Rabbi Dror, Sarah Barnett, other congregants, from our children, and simple self-study.
4. I have learned when to say when. It’s time to let Radie and Gavrielle take the reins and ride with the wind. When I pray during the silent portion of the Amidah, I always add prayers for wind under the wings of the people I love. (I know. Slightly mixed metaphor). I’m praying you all will help God put the wind under their wings as they settle in to serving you. …And I’m praying for new gusts of wind under my own wings while I take this time off to recover my sleep cycle and to enjoy my family’s many wonderful upcoming transitions. August 17th will be here in a “hot minute.” Please come to services to celebrate Annie and Jonathan’s aufruf with us. We will need your RSVPs for a wonderful catered lunch by the Masons. We’ll mail you the invitation later!
5. Speaking of the Masons, they and Donald and I all started at RST in 2004. They have been bedrock solid workers on our team. They took care of you and me, and I tried to take care of them. Combined, they represent 45 years of institutional knowledge that needs care and respect. Show them your love, as I am now. And let us say, Amen.
I Haven’t Written “in a Fat Minute”By Ester “Tess” Goldblatt
Rodef Sholom Temple
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Todah Rabah Thank You!Endowment Fund
Mazel Tov to Barbara Gordon for being named Blue Yarmulke Person of the Year.Sam & Lisa Margolin
In memory of Richard Glasser, brother of Jane Susan FrankSam & Lisa Margolin
Silverman-Schoenbaum Fund
In memory of Ruth ReissLouis & Bobbi Sue Silverman
In honor of Bert Aaron being named Citizen of the Year by the Daily PressLouis & Bobbi Sue Silverman
Gemilut Chasadim (Acts of Loving Kindness)
In honor of Barbara Gordon being named Blue Yarmulke Person of the YearGeofrey & Lisa Nochimson
In memory of Ruth ReissBarbara Gordon & Ellen Waranch
Firestone Family RST Landscaping Fund
In memory of Ruth ReissBill & Claudia Stiebel
Dina & Leon Familant Memorial Scholarship Fund
With condolences for the Jaffe family’s lossJoe & Lynne Familant
Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund
Jennie Abrams
In honor of Bert Aaron being named Citizen of the Year by the Daily PressArnie & Elaine Abrams
In honor of Josh David for receiving the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities Humanitarian awardArnie & Elaine Abrams
In memory of Devera BelkovMark & Marilyn Nataupsky
In memory of Dorothy TicklerMark & Marilyn Nataupsky
Sisterhood Torah Fund
Harvey & Doris Margulies
In honor of Ruby Conn being elected Director of Virginia Peninsula Association of Realtors David & Karen Levy
In memory of Ruth ReissEvelyn Goodman
In celebration of Roy and Betty Lasris’ first grandchild Larry & Danile Spokony
In honor of the birth of Roy & Betty Lasris’ granddaughter, OliviaDavid & Karen Levy
In honor of Mark & Marilyn Nataupsky’s 50th Wedding AnniversaryJay & Tova Warren
In honor of Josh David receiving the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities Humanitarian awardDavid & Karen Levy
In honor of Arnie Abrams’ birthday.David and Karen Levy
In memory of Richard Glasser, brother of Jane Susan FrankKaren & David LevyJay and Tova Warren
Sisterhood
In celebration of Roy & BettyLasris’ new granddaughterBeth & Jack Arager
Rodef Sholom Minyan Club
In memory of Ruth ReissConor Shapiro
The Seymour & Lillian Glasofer Education Fund
In memory of Ruth ReissStan & Janet Glasofer
In honor of Josh David for receiving the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities Humanitarian awardStan & Janet Glasofer
In honor of Bert Aaron being named Citizen of the Year by the Daily PressStan & Janet Glasofer
In honor of Tess Goldblatt for her service and patienceJeff & Bonnie Spigel
In honor of the birth of Roy and Betty Lasris’ first grandchild, Olivia LasrisJim & Sarah Barnett
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Building Fund – Relocation
Mazel Tov to Barbara Gordon for being named Blue Yarmulke Person of the Year.Jeff & Bonnie SpigelKenny & Robin MurovAl & Fran MolikenEllen WaranchChris Kuhn & Carmela Malkin KuhnBetty LevinThe Sisters GroupNeal & Barbara RosenbaumFloyd & Carol Lewis
Wishing Norman Katzenberg, a speedy recoveryAl & Fran MolikenKenny & Robin Murov
Wishing Joan Rosenbaum, a speedy recoveryLinwood & Myra KramerAl & Fran Moliken
In honor of Josh David for receiving the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities Humanitarian award.Kenny & Robin MurovJim & Sarah BarnettAl & Fran MolikenTsvi & Martha Katz-HymanWendy DruckerJeff & Bonnie SpigelNorman & Bonnie KatzenbergHarvey & Doris MarguliesJudy Morewitz
In memory of Donna Greene’s mother, Sybil WeingartNorman & Bonnie Katzenberg
Wishing Norman & Bebe Petock the very best in their new homeNorman & Bonnie Katzenberg
Wishing Joanie Rosenbaum, a speedy recoveryNorman & Bonnie Katzenberg
Todah Rabah, continued
In honor of Bert Aaron being named Citizen of the Year by the Daily PressTsvi & Martha Katz-Hyman
Congratulating Judie and Gary Kavit on the engagement of Ben Kavit and Soley EstevesNorman & Bonnie Katzenberg
In honor of the birth of Betty & Roy Lasris’ granddaughterNorman & Bonnie Katzenberg
In memory of Dorothy TicklerNorman & Bonnie Katzenberg
Wishing Charles Friedman a speedy recoveryMike & Jill Keech
In memory of Ruth ReissJoan Aaron
In honor of Roy and Betty Lasris’ first grandchildRabbi Norman & Jeanne GolnerKenny & Robin MurovHarvey & Doris Margulies
In honor of Bert Aaron being named the Citizen of the Year by the Daily pressHarvey & Doris Margulies
In memory of Richard Glasser, brother of Jane Susan FrankBetty LevinBarbara Gordon & Ellen WaranchJudy Morewitz
Social Action Committee
In memory of Ruth ReissWoody & Ann Chapman
Library Fund
In memory of Devera Wilks Belkov Betty Levin
In memory of Sol Cohon Betty Levin
In memory of Sylvia Tarlow Betty Levin
Rodef Sholom Temple
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Yahrzeits
April 5-6, 2019
Elliott AbrahamJacob Benjamin DamskyJoseph GoldCharles A. LevinsonJennie BeckerDaniel BerlinIda BraslowSherman Aaron ClevensonHilda KirsnerSidney KaplanRobert W. LernerRhoda SpokonyCarl AnapolHarry BlackmanMyrtle S. BraslowAbraham “Abe” FirestoneJeanette Cooper GreenbergerSaul MinkoffSylvia Freed MoonvesAl SnyderDolly KatzensteinLena S. TannenIrene Leah CohenArthur LevyMorris PearlmanNellie F. RosenbaumBessie AltmanMax AronoffMiriam CarmelBernice EuzentCharles GuttermanAnnie JanuaryMarion R. MirmelsteinBertha Rosenstein
April 12-13, 2019
Bessie BlackmanPercy CarmelLouis ChernockS. Herman GoldbergMilton M. KatzJacob SandlerKathy WoodMinnie Meyhr CohenDavid LapidusLouis B. MirmelsteinPauline VogelSarah Ornoff AbelkopMarie Penn BlechmanBertha GellmanRose Frances Levinson GlasserGertrude RichmanAnna SlutskyJoseph W. JacobsonArthur Segall, Sr.Seymour I. WilksLena Eisenberg FriedmanSarah GuttermanGeorge PosnerLouis P. Spritzer
April 19 – 20, 2019
Jack D. SilvermanRose Blackman BrennerAlexander SoddenClara SpritzerLudwig SternAbraham GrossEdell GabelJoseph GetsugIda MinkoffReba AronoffT. HornsbyWilliam RichmanEve Avedon SpirnAnna TicklerIsaac GreensponElinore Blumenson KavitMorton Miles ZeddMary LevitzkyHerman Massell
April 26 – 27, 2019 Abraham BaileySol GoldblattNaomi HarrisIsabel S. OstheimerEunice Liebman PortnoyGertrude GreenbergBertha Stern SpigelDavid WaranchFlorence M. BlockSarah Ethel NeviasRose Portnoy StraussSarah Frank ArrollMilton FamilantAmelia MorrisJohnny Lee PackBen WeinerSamuel ZeddAnnie Goldstein BrownIrene Bookbinder LeiferHilda LevyMarion MarkowitzYenta Reva SiegelEva ArchEdna Margolis FranklinLeah GrossDavid LevineNehama (Nina) MiroyanGeorge H. NataupskyMarian Sandler NataupskyLillian Z. RogatzHarry SteinBenjamin VogelMark VoloshinRose G. ChernockIsaac DruckerHyman Seltzer
The names of these loved ones will be called on these weekends:
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Yahrzeits, continued
May 17-18, 2019
Ana Maria Alvarez-MenaJoseph KleinDavid KrugerLaura L. PressBen JacobsDiane KorfinMary Millin MarksHarry PerzekowHarry A. GreenMelvin KleinEmil MargolisBoris RosenfeldDavid SmithMilton WeinsteinTyler Ford BialekBenjamin BlackmanTillie S. DiamonsteinNathan EidelsGoldie Epstein FischJoseph KleinHerman SmithBenjamin WeisenfeldGabriel BrownDoris G. JacobsBelle LevinsonAnna Abel CohenZipporah FriedmanAnna GoodmanClarence I. KleinGolda KramerMartin NochimsonIrving KlesmerSolomon Paster
May 3-4, 2019
Milton FriedmanYetta SmithEsther Meyhr CannonReuben EpsteinBob SiegelSadye Massell BlechmanMartin William DamskyEdith Smith KaneSamuel S. MorewitzJames CohenSarah EpsteinAlex LipsitzLeopold RiibnerDonald W. RosenbaumAnna CohenHerbert Gerald HotchnerEsther KatzenbergDorothy LichtensteinCharles SalkenRose E. SandlerJacob SchatzmanCharles L. SegaloffMeyer KanterSara Omansky “Sassi” LevySarah MorewitzHenry SachsPhilip A. AbrahamLeon E. Diamondstein
May 10 – 11, 2019
Harry FrankHarry FriedlandLena Laibstain GoodmanR. Lorraine MorewitzBelle Banks SoltzAl SugermanAnne WeinsteinMinnie ZilberRose F. CaplanMaurice ErlachBessie Pear JacobsThomas J. Casey, Sr.Barney FarberMax LemerSol NachmanMaurice SolomonAnna TeichmanHelen WeiserRosa Bregman DamskyAnne MolikenRae AstorLeatrice BrookeJoseph BurlockA. B. MirmelsteinCarol A. SpigelLouis B. TuchmannMildred K. FoxSimcha FriedmanIrwin HellerKatie KaplanLynn Levitt KrugerCarolyn RudermanJoseph SilversteinAnna BernsteinHerbert B. LewittMax MolikenEthel Workman
May 24 – 25, 2019Theodore H. BeskinEllis J. GraffHarry D. GrossFrances S. KrinickMartin J. KrinickAlan B. NataupskyFrances StadlinMary E. SummersRobert David WendellAnita L. AbramsRalph M. BeckerMinnie KesslerFannie Goldstein LewittJean MorganKay Andrea ScherAdolph B. BanksSophie LevyHelen Cooper SchmerlingSamuel M. AaronLouis BeckerEdward ElsbergMeyer SlaterIrwin B. (Buck) FreedmanAlbert Abe SchyAnne Kabik PosnerFannie Jaffe BroutLyla Rubin Longman
May 31 – June 1, 2019
Lillian B. AaronAlbert EuzentThelma “Ted” FoxJoseph Gordon
The names of these loved ones will be called on these weekends:
Rodef Sholom Temple
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Temple NewsCelebrate Special Occasions at Rodef Sholom Temple Having a special birthday or anniversary? Remembering a departed loved one? Want to share good news or good fortune with friends? Are you reading Haftorah on the anniversary of your Bar/Bat Mitzvah?
Celebrate that special occasion with Temple members by sponsoring a Oneg Shabbat, a Kiddush Luncheon, or Minyan Breakfast. For the most basic menu selection, your minimum donation of $50 for a Oneg Shabbat, $150 for a Kiddush Luncheon, or $35 for a Minyan Breakfast is tax-deductible. Call the Temple Office to schedule your sponsorship.
Thank you to the following who have sponsored or provided a meal:
February meals• Beth Arager in memory of Rhea Tannen
• Linda Roesen in memory of Larry Roesen
• Dr. Phil Levy in memory of Steve Portnoy
• Sam Parrucci in honor of Eric Koppelman
• Hank Brodsky in memory of Frances Brodsky
• Mike Klesmer in memory of Helen Klesmer
March Meals• Arnie Abrams in honor of his birthday
• The Aragers in celebration of their 30th Anniversary
• Dr. Bill Becker in honor of his son-in-law, Dr. Ross Radusky
• The Gleisers in memory of Betty Sudarsky
• Sandy Katz In memory of Milton Katz
Milestones:
• Josh David was the awarded the Virginia Inclusive Communities Humanitarian Award.
• In February, Bert Aaron was named the 2018 Daily Press Citizen of the Year.
• Judie and Gary Kavit are thrilled to announce the engagement of their son Benjamin (Ben) to Soley Esteves. The wedding date is to be determined.
• Roy and Betty Lasris announce with great joy the birth of their granddaughter Olivia Ellarose on February 20, 2019. The parents are Ethan and Amanda Lasris.
Condolences:
The congregation notes with sadness the passing of:
• Richard Glasser, husband of Martha; brother of Jane Susan Frank (Joe), Michael Glasser (Lore), Stuart Glasser (Sarah); uncle of Shelly Currin (Doug), Jason Frank (Jennifer) and Missy Clagg.
Save These Dates for Upcoming Congregational Dinners:
Friday night services at 6:00 p.m. followed by Evelyn and Richard Mason’s finest.
• April 12th: Farewell to Chametz. A carb-loaded feast!
• May 31st: New Member/Teacher Appreciation Shabbat
Congratulations to our Confirmation Class:
• Disraeli Brooks, Sydney Frank and Josh Kostiner! Services will be Friday night, May 3rd at 6:00 p.m., followed by an Oneg provided by the families.
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RST Sisterhood
Many thanks to everyone who supported our Mishloach Manot project this year. By sending Mishloach Manot to your friends and fellow congregants, you not only support Sisterhood but, most important, help fulfill one of the commandments of Purim. Your contribution will help Sisterhood better serve Rodef Sholom Temple! Of course, our project would not have been successful without the help of many people, including Daniel Spokony, who organized the project, and Shelly Portnoy and her group of volunteers who put the bags together, We hope you enjoyed them!
Danile also organized this year’s Passover Gift Fair, with the help of Tova Warren. It was a great success, and we hope that those who came will also enjoy the recipes sent in by Sisterhood members.
Our annual Torah Fund brunch at the end of February brought us together at the home of Elina Blaha, where our guest was Leora Skolnik, daughter-in-law of Tova and Jay Warren, and wife of Navy chaplain Rabbi Yoni Warren. Leora answered our questions about her experiences on Okinawa in keeping kosher and talking about being Jewish with the wives of Christian chaplains. It was certainly interesting! Thanks to all of those members who brought women’s hygiene supplies for our own Jewish Family Service office on the Peninsula, and gently-used and new bras for the clients of FISH, in Williamsburg. My thanks to Elina for hosting us and organizing the brunch, with the help of Shelly Portnoy and Beth Arager, and to everyone who donated to Torah Fund. Your contributions will help the students who attend our Conservative Jewish institutions of higher learning and our rabbinical schools, where our rabbis, cantors and educators study.
Please watch for information about our last program of the year: an afternoon of Tai Chi with Rhoda Nachman, coming up after Passover.
Sisterhood wishes all members of the Rodef Sholom Temple family a happy and kosher Passover!
RST Book ClubThe next Book Club Meeting will be Sunday, May 19th. The book discussed will be In the Darkroom by Susan Faludi.
“This book is a masterpiece.” - Ann Patchett
“In the Darkroom is an absolute stunner of a memoir - probing, steel-nerved, moving in ways you’d never expect. Ms. Faludi is determined both to demystify the father of her youth - ‘a simultaneously inscrutable and volatile presence, a black box and a detonator’ - and to reexamine the very notion and nature of identity.” - New York Times (daily review)
“Penetrating and lucid...In the Darkroom is Faludi’s rich, arresting, and ultimately generous investigation of her father.” - New York Times Book Review (front page)
“A gripping and honest personal journey...that ultimately transcends family and addresses much bigger questions of identity and reinvention.” - Entertainment Weekly
“Riveting...Ms. Faludi unfolds her father’s story like the plot of a detective novel.” - Wall Street Journal
Susan Faludi is a Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist and the author of The Terror Dream, Stiffed, and Backlash, which won the National Book Critics Circle Award for Nonfiction. A former reporter for the Wall Street Journal, she has written for the New Yorker, the New York Times, Harper’s, and The Baffler, among other publications.
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Congratulations
Barbara Gordon
2019 Blue Yarmulke Person-of-the-Year
Rodef Sholom Temple
April - May 2019
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Rodef Sholom Temple Golf Classic In Memory of Martin Damsky
Sunday, June 23, 2019, 8:30am Woods Course
Format: Captain’s Choice, 4-Person Teams. Shotgun Start at 8:30am (If you do not have 4 players, enter individually and a team will be formed for you)
Player / Sponsor Registration
Player/Company ________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________ City _________________________ Zip _________ PH _________________ Players Names: Captain _________________________ Phone ______________ Email ______________ Name ___________________________Phone ______________ Email ______________ Name ___________________________Phone ______________ Email ______________ Name ___________________________Phone ______________ Email ______________ SPECIAL SPONSORSHIPS-Contact Kenny Murov at 757-291-8048 or [email protected] for details:
Ruby-$1,000_____ Platinum-$750_____ Gold-$500______ Silver-$250______ White-$100_______ Tournament Players $85 Per Single Player $340 Foursome Mulligans – 2 for $10.00 (Max 4/player)
Hole Sponsor: Players: Mulligans: RubyGld/Slvr or Wht Sponsor Total
All players receive greens fee, golf cart, range balls, lunch, 1st & 2nd place awards for each flight and closest-to-the-pin on two par 3s. Lunch will be held after the round at the Mounts Bay Recreation Center on Mounts Bay Road ¼ mile past Kingsmill’s Rt 199 gatehouse. Please register by Thursday, June 13, 2019. Make checks payable to: Rodef Sholom Temple Send to: Kenny Murov, 716 J. Clyde Morris Blvd, Suite B, Newport News, VA 23601 I am not able to participate, but please accept the enclosed donation of $_______________ (This contribution is totally tax deductible). For more information call Kenny Murov (757) 291-8048 or Email: [email protected]
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Selling of Chametz At Passover, we are commanded to remove all Chametz, all products that include flour and water from our homes. Typically, people clean out their home and get out their Passover dishes in the few days leading up to Passover. Since we are not allowed to own Chametz during Passover, there is a custom of placing the Chametz in a closed, clearly marked cabinet and then selling that Chametz to a non-Jew. If you are interested in selling your Chametz, mail back the form below giving me permission to sell your Chametz. The completed form must reach the RST office no later than Thursday, April 18, 2019 by Noon. Please be aware that you cannot use the Chametz from the afternoon preceding Passover until 2 hours after Passover ends. It is customary to make a small donation to the Synagogue or the Rabbi’s Discretionary fund as part of this service. Best wishes for a happy and kosher Passover! Rabbi Gilah Dror
I, ______________________________, hereby appoint Rabbi Gilah Dror to act as my agent to sell my Chametz in preparation for Passover. I understand that I can neither use it nor look at it during Passover. _________________________ _______________________ Signature Date
April - May 2019
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Let All Who are Hungry Come and Eat…
DO YOU HAVE SPACE AT YOUR SEDER TABLE? PLEASE OPEN YOUR HOME TO A MEMBER OF OUR COMMUNITY
If you can accommodate one or more guests, please check all that apply:
_____1st Night Seder (Fri. 4/19) # of guests_____ _____2nd Night Seder (Sat. 4/20) # of guests_____ ___I/we observe Jewish dietary laws. ____I/we can accommodate a vegetarian diet. NAME_________________________________ Email________________________________________ ADDRESS____________________________________________ CONTACT PHONE NUMBER_____________________________ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE HOSTED FOR A PASSOVER SEDER, PLEASE COMPLETE THE INFORMATION BELOW
The Temple will do its best to make a placement for at least one seder. I/we are available the following day(s):
_____1st Night Seder (Fri. 4/19) # of guests_____ _____2nd Night Seder (Sat. 4/20) # of guests_____ _____I/we observe Jewish dietary laws. _____I/we observe a vegetarian diet. NAME__________________________________________Email________________________ ADDRESS____________________________________________ CONTACT PHONE NUMBER_____________________________
Mail: 401 City Center Blvd., Newport News, VA 23606 or e-mail [email protected]
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RodefSholomTemple
401 City Center Blvd.Newport News, VA 23606
ELECTRONIC ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Dated Material: Please Deliver by April 1, 2019
Non-Profit Organization
U.S. Postage PaidNewport News, VA
Permit No. 30
Making Connections: Passover Congregational Dinner Come share your favorite or funny Passover stories.
Come eat chametz and help us to clean out our pantry.
Friday, April 12th6:00 p.m. services followed by dinner
Menu:Minestrone Soup | Salad with dressing | Corn Pudding
Pasta with Red and White Sauces | Spinach Lasagna Fresh Sautéed Veggies | Garlic Toast | Bread Pudding
$15 for adults & teens; $6 for kids 5-12; Free for kids under 5
Please RSVP by April 8thChecks Payable to Rodef Sholom Temple
