September
2016
Av / Elul
5776
It’s not accidental that Beth Torah flat out prefers
Friday night services with Joyful Noise so, fermata
thin air, we bring you the noteworthy Joyful Noise A
Cappella. You’re chordially invited to be there sharp
every third Friday at 6:30 PM for some great singing.
And bring the kids! We love unaccompanied minors
and don’t worry too much about tempo tantrums.
Contents
In the event of an
emergency—
For illness, death, or
other family life cycle
emergency after-hours,
please contact Rabbi
Zelony at 310.409.6532.
Synagogue
offices are
open— Sunday—Friday
9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Business office
will be closed— All Day—September 5
Submissions for the Family Record are encouraged! The deadline for each issue is
the FIRST OF THE MONTH prior to publication month and can be done online at
http://congregationbethtorah.org/calendar-communications. The Family Record is
published in color and mailed monthly, except bi-monthly during summer, to those
who subscribe ($50 per year subscription). Contact the office to subscribe.
Sisterhood 18
Scholar–in–Residence 20
Project Isaiah 20
Men's Club 20
Donations 21
Yahrzeits 22
From Ritual 10
High Holiday Schedule 11
Inclusion Initiative 12
About Our Funds 12
Habitat for Halakah 13
Adult Education 14
Shul Doings 16
Welcome From Our Rabbi 3
From Our President 4
2016 Las Vegas Trip 5
From Our DCL 6
Member News 8
President
Cyd Friedman
Executive VP
Marty Fried
Development VP
David Engelberg
Education VP
Justin Ross
Financial VP
Aaron Drazin
Membership VP
Debbie Wills
Ritual VP
Neil Burnstein
Treasurer
Marc Machbitz
Board Secretary
Lisa Miller
Past President
Alan Hoffman
Executive Board Members
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
Urbandictionary.com is an open-source site where the average citizen
contributes to the definition of the words found there. As the High
Holidays approach I’ve been contemplating the phrase, “epic fail.”
According to one entry on Urban Dictionary epic fail means, “complete
and total failure when success should have been reasonably easy to
attain.”
Epic fail defines most of the sins I contemplate during the High
Holidays. I should have been able to succeed, but I didn’t because I’m
human and I have weaknesses. I spend the High Holidays thinking of the many times
when I could easily have been more kind, patient, and optimistic but failed to do so. It
isn’t that I’m incapable of those behaviors. I have a normal psyche, and I’m able to be
a good person. However, as a human, I failed to be my best self during the past year
on numerous occasions. I know I’m not alone in my epic fail. Look at the stories we’re
told about the Jewish people in the Torah.
The epic fail of the Jewish people was worshiping the Golden Calf, and the epic fail of
Moses was smashing the 10 Commandments God carved with God’s own finger. All
the people had to do was wait until Moses returned with God’s law, but they panicked
during their leader’s absence and sought security in a golden image. All Moses had to
do was reprimand the people. Instead, he flew into a rage and smashed the holy
tablets. They were capable of doing a better job, but they didn’t
Here’s the good news. Elul, the month leading up to the High Holidays, is one of
contemplation. According to the midrash, on the first of Elul Moses began carving a
second set of tablets with his own hands. Carving the second set of tablets is about
starting over again after failure.
The High Holiday cycle demands that we examine the ways we have failed, but it also
gives us the strength to start anew. On the first of Elul (September 4 this year) we
begin re-carving our own smashed tablets. It’s hard work to hew meaning out of
stone, but the effort leads to renewed relationships and hope for the future. Check out
the following websites to help with your preparation for High Holidays during Elul:
http://www.jewelsofelul.com/ and http://www.ritualwell.org/month-elul.
On Rosh Hashanah, if I see callouses on your hands I’ll point to my own. We’ll nod
knowingly and smile at one another. We’ll affirm the hard work that went into re-
carving ourselves. Together, we’ll celebrate the new year as an opportunity to start all
over again.
Rabbi Elana Zelony
Rabbi Elana Zelony | [email protected]
From the Rabbi
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
By now you have received your High Holiday packet. If you have not
looked closely yet, please do so. The packet provides all the
information you need to navigate the upcoming high holidays, with
detailed scheduling and instructions, and the forms you need for a
variety of needs during the holidays.
An addition to your packet this year was our all new Adult Education
brochure. We have received many requests to expand our adult
education offerings and, thanks to Rabbi Zelony, Beri Schwitzer, and
our Adult Education Committee chairs, Robin Popik and Evelyn Utay, your wishes came true!
There is truly something for everyone. Please read through it and sign up for all that interests
you.
As we prepare for the upcoming holidays, we are staying very busy. On September 9, we hope
you will join us at our Congregational Shabbat dinner, honoring the outgoing Executive Team
and all they have done for Beth Torah. Please register at http://cbt.news/cbtdinner, it will be a
wonderful time together leading into Kabbalat Shabbat and kicking off the new year as a
community.
Learning Center starts September 7—if you haven’t registered your children, please do so. We
have our first Social Action event on September 11. And many of our groups are having their
kick off events in September: Chai Lights, The Middle, MishMash, USY and Kadima. Men’s
Club, and Sisterhood always have so much going on. Please see our website for LC
registration and details about all of the other events.
Please join us as we usher in the High Holidays with the community Selichot Services, hosted
this year by Anshai Torah, September 24 at 8:45 PM. Also, we hope to see you at our
community Break the Fast immediately following Yom Kippur services.
I would like to extend a special thank you to our staff, Carren, Tom, Heather, and Cathryn for
all of their hard work as we have been and continue to prepare for the upcoming High
Holidays. Also, thank you to the High Holiday committee and all of the volunteers who make it
possible for the holidays to go smoothly. So much happens in August and September as we
get ready to be together for this very meaningful time and these special people work closely
together to make sure we are ready.
I still haven’t met many of you, and hope to get to do so over the High Holidays or one of the
many wonderful social and educational events taking place at Beth Torah.
Cyd Friedman | [email protected]
From the President
Cyd Friedman
10.30.2016
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
Join members of Congregation Beth Torah on a
special behind the scenes tour of Las Vegas, December 11–15. As part of our Adult Education program, we will be examining the origins of Thugs Who Knew Torah: a Look at Jewish Gangsters. Led by Director of Congregational Learning and Las Vegas native, Beri Schwitzer, our program will feature…
Four night stay at Treasure Island (on the
strip including one-night buffet dinner)
Inside local stories and tours of the Las
Vegas Jewish community including a unique
synagogue tour with local cantor (and
acclaimed Yiddish recording artist)
Two museum packages
Transportation around town with experienced
tour guide
Visit to Red Rock Canyon
Price of the trip is $350* per person (*airfare not included. Show tickets and additional meals are extra).
For more information, contact the Congregational Learning Center Office at 972.234.1542 x224
Participants are encouraged to attend two classes (2PM in the library Oct 16 and Nov 6) in which we will be examining the origins of Thugs Who Knew Torah: A Look at Jewish Gangsters. Led by Director of Congregational Learning and Las Vegas native, Beri Schwitzer, this class focuses on immigration, Jewish social action, and the origins of Jewish gangsters.
Register early as we’re limited
to 54 participants. Deadline for
registration is November 8.
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
It is safe to say that I am obsessed with pineapples. My office is littered with them: pineapple stress toys, pineapple magnets, and pineapple pillows have become the focal point of my work décor lately. Which is ironic seeing as one bite from this tropical fruit would kill me. One morsel from this Hawaiian delicacy and I’m done for. It’s not pretty. My throat shuts down, I swell violently, and I have mere moments before I either pass out or I get the lifesaving epi-pen. So what does this have to do with Jewish education and why focus my column on this?
My Zaidie (z’l) used to always say, “Your education never stops.” At 92, he modeled that behavior when, at the time, he became the oldest bar mitzvah in
Dallas. He talked the talk and walked the proverbial walk. He instilled in us the importance of education and his passion for learning. In his 96 years of life, he held multiple college degrees and was always finding new ways to study and grow. I often marveled at how he adapted to technology even as his eyesight was failing. I think Zaidie’s passion for learning could best be described in this Albert Einstein quote: “Once you stop learning, you start dying.”
Perhaps that is the core of my obsession—pineapples are my kryptonite. They are my reminder that I am far from perfect. That I, like my childhood comic book superheroes, have flaws and limitations. It is also my reminder that I have to fight my fears and learn how to navigate my way in a world that can be scary. I have to get out of my comfort zone and challenge my surroundings. I have to be vulnerable and challenge myself to do things that might challenge me.
We each bring to the classroom a suitcase of real world experiences, apprehensions, and vast amounts of knowledge. We also bring every negative thought and emotion, every scar from the parent, teacher, or coach that told us we weren’t good enough. Learning can be exciting and exhilarating but it can be downright frightening too. We must recognize that we all learn differently and each try to conquer our fears knowing that Congregation Beth Torah provides a safe place for each of us to find our own Jewish journey and make our own path.
My role as Director of Congregational Learning reminds me every day that we are never too old to start learning. I am so thrilled at the offerings that our Education co-chairs, Robin Popik and Evelyn Utay, as well as the Rabbi and myself have put together for our community this year. I hope you will take a peek at our large class lists and make it to one of our many course offerings this fall. Challenge yourself and if you don’t see something you like but want to learn more about, please feel free to let me know.
As a dyslexic, I am still challenged with reading Hebrew but I make it a point to push myself out of my comfort zone each day. Perhaps that’s why I am surrounded by my pineapples—because they remind me to stand tall in the face of adversity. To wear a crown of honor when I feel the most frustrated. They remind me that I have armor when I feel my most vulnerable but at my core I am sweet.
(Continued on page 7)
Beri Schwitzer
Beri Schwitzer | [email protected]
From the Director of Congregational Learning
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
Changes Coming this Fall
All grades start at 9:00 AM
Grades Pre-K—2nd will start in their classrooms while grades 3—10 will begin in the Main
Sanctuary for minyan. Please continue to use the walk-in or carpool doors to enter. This will
be a learner’s minyan led by Rabbi Zelony, Beri Schwitzer, and Rachel Leventon. All
participants will have a chance to support each other and learn together during this service.
Take Five for Hebrew
Students will be encouraged to practice their Hebrew skills at home
through the “Take 5 for Hebrew” program. Students will be given
coupons that say, “I took 5 for Hebrew,” encouraging students to
spend five minutes, five days a week, to work on their Hebrew.
Students may read out loud to their parents, parents may read out
loud to their children…or use a variety of recommended apps or
our Behrman House On-Line Learning Center. Afterwards, parents
and students can sign off on one of the coupons. When a student
completes a page he/she turns it in to our staff. Prizes will be
awarded monthly for individuals and class participation.
Exciting Teen Curriculum
After the success of our Walk Through the Siddur program for younger grades, we will be
offering our post b’nai mitzvah students the opportunity to participate on Sundays as well as
our new Madrichim (or classroom helper) training.
Family Programming Enhanced by ISJL
We want all of our CBT families to be connected to lifelong Jewish learning. In addition to the
special programs offered for our Learning Center students, we will be offering programs that
engage our families with day school students to be part of our Kehillah Kedosha (sacred
community). Our first program will be our Family Sukkah Sleepover starting on Saturday,
October 22! Our ISJL fellow, Shira Moskowitz, will be joining us for this amazing event!
On-Line Learning Center
We have activated an account for each student through Behrman House to utilize their on-line
learning center for supplemental support. Repetition and consistent practice helps to reinforce
the learning throughout the week and this extra tool will strengthen our Hebrew program for
all grades!
CLC Continued... We've been
busy moving
your cheese!
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
Do we have a wrong or missing date?
Contact the office at 972.234.1542 or
Happy Anniversary to...
Joshua & Mandy Clairfield 3-Sep
Uri & Debbie Rozemberg 4-Sep
Jerry & Jo Zeffren 6-Sep
Richard Foltak & Abra Udisky 9-Sep
Sandy & Jeanette Dorf 10-Sep
Keith & Elsa Mond 14-Sep
Michael & Jennifer Shaub 18-Sep
Stacey & Henry Clark 27-Sep
John & Harriet Pratt 27-Sep
Neil & Iris Deutsch 28-Sep
Member News Lisa Miller | [email protected]
Condolences to… Michele Mandell on the passing of her
father, Harvey Schein.
Diane Mosbacher on the passing of her
father, Erich Mosbacher.
Mazel Tov to… Farrah Reese Montoya, daughter of Elaine & Larry Montoya, will be
called to the Torah on Saturday, September 17. Farrah is the younger
sister of Cheyenne and the granddaughter of Fern & David Gerstein of
Plano and Mary & Larry Montoya of Wylie.
Farrah is in seventh grade at Hudson Middle School in Sachse as an honor
student. She has a love of dance, choir, track, and basketball. Farrah and
her family are excited to celebrate this simcha with family, friends, and the
congregation.
Welcome New Members… We welcome the following new members to
Congregation Beth Torah. Watch for your
next directory update for contact
information.
Libbi O'Dean Ellis Shwarts
Hilary & Philip Bierman
The Meyerhardt Family
(L to R) Martin Meyerhardt, Dana Meyerhardt, Drew Meyerhardt, Marci Meyerhardt
Mazel Tov to… Jill & Lou Kaiser on the engagement of
their son Scott to Whitney Goldberg. The
wedding is planed for April 30, 2017.
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
Carlie Ross 19-Sep
Max Holtmann 20-Sep
Karen Prager-Eaves 20-Sep
Jared Elad 21-Sep
Jason Matisoff 22-Sep
Howard Taper 22-Sep
Janet Fried 23-Sep
Joseph Liken 23-Sep
Farrah Montoya 23-Sep
Larry Montoya 23-Sep
Cooper Leibow 24-Sep
Aaron Myers 24-Sep
Steven Parham 24-Sep
Adam Block 25-Sep
Francine Simpson 25-Sep
Martin Barenblat 28-Sep
Judith Glazer 29-Sep
Deanna Koenigsberg 29-Sep
Dana Meyerhardt 29-Sep
Happy Birthday to... Lisa Miller | [email protected]
Matthew Morris 1-Sep
Evelyn Utay 1-Sep
Kathy Garber 2-Sep
Teddy Hogan 2-Sep
Kenneth Rifkin 4-Sep
Leslie Farin 5-Sep
Phillip Kopita 5-Sep
Elaine Montoya 5-Sep
Mira Schwitzer 5-Sep
Zoe Schwitzer 5-Sep
Teddy Garber 6-Sep
Jessica Doty 7-Sep
Sarah Korman 7-Sep
Irwin Roth 7-Sep
Marissa Terra 7-Sep
Gayle Hill 8-Sep
Laura Schnitzer 8-Sep
Richard Simpson 8-Sep
Allen Udisky 8-Sep
Laura Levy 9-Sep
Jessica Liken 9-Sep
Michelle Wolff 9-Sep
Abigail Mindle 10-Sep
Ira Nevelow 11-Sep
Samara Taper 11-Sep
Paul Lake 12-Sep
Abigail Segal 12-Sep
Hope Decker 13-Sep
Lauren Holtmann 13-Sep
Haley Hogan 14-Sep
Janice Mayo 15-Sep
Alan Weiss 15-Sep
Helen Levy 16-Sep
Ann Myer 16-Sep
Donna Zeff 16-Sep
Michael Levy 17-Sep
Lev Gelb 18-Sep
CasSandra Kessner 18-Sep
Jacob Kupersztoch 18-Sep
Steve Simmons 18-Sep
A Big Thanks to... The wonderful Talk 'n Fold volunteers who showed
up to help prepare both the August M3 mailing and
the High Holiday packet mailing. This group had
everything done in only an hour!
Fern Gerstein Michael Gross
Lisa Miller Marty Fried
Stephen Rowley Roz Prupes
Miriam Starke Madison Stewart
Farrah Montoya Harriet Pratt
Ellen & Herb Schacter (and grandbaby)
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
Ritual Committee | [email protected]
Friday Night Leaders: Rabbi Elana Zelony, Elizabeth Stein, Garry Kahalnik, Joyful Noise, Jerry Zeffren, Earl Bills, Farrah Montoya, Dylan Rose
Psukei D’Zimra: Rabbi Elana Zelony, Arny Felner, Earl Bills
Shacharit: Rabbi Elana Zelony, Arny Felner, Joe Liken, Phil Stayman, Paul Utay
Torah Service: Phillip Kopita, Jonathan Rosen, Alisone Kopita, Arny Felner, Elizabeth Stein, Phillip Kopita, Jonathan Rosen, Alisone Kopita, Arny Felner, Elizabeth Stein, Farrah Montoya, Dylan Rose
Gabbai: Chuck Smith, Garry Kahalnik, Cliff Friedman
Torah Readers: Joe Liken, John Wills, Myrna Silver, Jeff Silver, Jerry Zeffren, Jackie Wald, Rabbi Elana Zelony, David Engelberg, Barbara Rosen, Paul Utay, Eleanor Eidels, Rusty Dworkin, Elizabeth Stein, Phil Stayman, Stan Sutkin, Casey Gendason, Marilyn Guzick, Dylan Rose
Haftarah: Paul Utay, Jerry Zeffren, Joe Liken, Stan Sutkin, Chuck Smith, Jessica Winter, Eleanor Eidels, Dylan Rose
Sermons and Sermonettes: Rabbi Elana Zelony, Rabbi Jordan Parr, Morris Fried, Garry Kahalnik, Beri Schwitzer, Bob Austein
Musaf: Arny Felner, Garry Kahalnik, Elizabeth Stein, Francine Simpson, Ron Blumka, Earl Bills, Dylan Rose
While we generally do
not schedule service
leaders and Torah
readers in advance for
the daily minyanim, we
would also like to thank
everyone who steps
forward and helps our
daily services be just
as enjoyable and
participatory as during
Shabbat and the
Chagim (Holidays).
On behalf of the congregation, the Ritual Committee wishes a hearty
Yasher Koach and Thank You to the following congregants, friends and
family who led a service, read from the Torah, or chanted a Haftarah on
Shabbat during the months of July & August 2016:
From Ritual
See the
back cover
for service
times
8:45 PM Saturday, September 24
Featuring JTS Scholar, Dr. Amy Kalmanofsky
Hineni: Awesome Biblical Texts for the Days of Awe
Includes Communal Havdalah Service, change colorful Torah mantles to
white, service led by Klay Kodesh and Kol Rina Choirs.
Dessert reception / Waffle bar. Open to the community. RSVP requested.
Community Selichot Service Anshai
Torah 5501 W Parker
Plano, TX 75093
Questions
RSVP Debbie Butvin
972.473.7718
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
COMMUNITY-WIDE SELICHOT at Anshai Torah Saturday, September 24
Havdalah followed by guest speaker Rabbi Dr. Amy Kalmanofsky from JTS Selichot Service for the Conservative Community
8:45 PM—10:45 PM
KEVER AVOT at RESTLAND’S United Jewish Cemetery Sunday, September 25
Memorial Service at Restland’s United Jewish Cemetery led by Rabbi Howard Wolk 9:15 AM
EREV ROSH HASHANAH Sunday, October 2
Evening Service 8:15 PM
ROSH HASHANAH Monday, October 3
Morning Service 8:30 AM—1:15 PM
7th–12
th grades Walk through the Machzor Program (Library) 9:15 AM—10:00 AM
Tot Service with parents (Infants to 5 years / Multi-Purpose Room) 10:00 AM—11:00 AM
Kindergarten–2nd
grades classroom activities 10:00 AM—11:00 AM
3rd
to 6th grades Junior Congregation (Youth Lounge) 10:00 AM—11:00 AM
Kindergarten–2nd
grades Family Service (Multi-Purpose Room) 11:10 AM—12:10 PM
3rd
to 6th grades activities (Youth Lounge) 11:10 AM—12:10 PM
7th–12
th grades Teen Program (Youth Lounge) 12:15 PM—1:15 PM
Learner’s Minyan (Library) During Musaf
Tashlich 1:30 PM
OPEN HOUSE at Rabbi’s Home (308 Canyon Drive, Richardson 75080) After Tashlich Service
EVENING SERVICE 8:15 PM
ROSH HASHANAH SECOND DAY Tuesday, October 4
Morning Service 8:30 AM— 1:15 PM
Youth Service (Multi-Purpose Room) 10:00 AM—11:00 AM
Kindergarten–7th grades classroom activities 11:00 AM— 1:00 PM
KEVER AVOT Sunday, October 9
Memorial Service led by Rabbi Elana Zelony at Sparkman Hillcrest Memorial Park, 7405 W. Northwest Highway, Dallas. Entrance is on Hillcrest Road, just north of Northwest Highway.
1:00 PM
EREV YOM KIPPUR Tuesday, October 11
Kol Nidre Service 6:15 PM
YOM KIPPUR Wednesday, October 12
Morning Service 8:30 AM—1:45 PM
7th–12
th grades Walk through the Machzor Program (Library) 9:15 AM—10:00 AM
Tot Service with parents (Infants to 5 years / Multi-Purpose Room) 10:00 AM—11:00 AM
Kindergarten–2nd
grades classroom activities 10:00 AM—11:00 AM
3rd
to 6th grades Junior Congregation (Youth Lounge) 10:00 AM—11:00 AM
Kindergarten–2nd
grades Family Service (Multi-Purpose Room) 11:10 AM—12:10 PM
3rd
to 6th grades classroom activities 11:10 AM—1:15 PM
7th–12
th grades Teen Program (Youth Lounge) 12:15 PM—1:15 PM
Learner’s Minyan (Library) During Musaf
Yizkor Service (approximately) 11:30 AM
Study Session (Sanctuary) 3:30 PM—4:30 PM
Stretching Your Body and Soul (Yoga / Multi-Purpose Room) 4:30 PM—5:00 PM
Alternative Mincha followed by Neilah 5:00 PM
Congregational “Break the Fast” 7:46 PM
2016–2017 High Holiday Schedule
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
Summer is over and this next month gives us the time and opportunity to get ready for the New
Year. The INCLUSION INITIATIVE plans to develop several offerings for the coming year that
support our members of all ages who currently have or who may discover barriers to full and
comfortable participation in synagogue life.
Some of the options include an education series on issues related to mental health, e.g., depression
or anxiety. Remember, not all disabilities are visible. Another option involves dealing with and
preparing for end of life decisions. We intend to continue and expand our relationship with CHAI
(Community Homes For Adults, Inc.). Supporting CBT Cares remains a priority as does engaging
those who are unable to attend services and synagogue activities in real time. USCJ will host its
international USY convention here in Dallas in December and we may have a role to play regarding
their disability thread.
There are many possible areas for inclusion to serve you. Please let us know what needs exist and
share ideas for addressing the challenges that members face. Our committee is dedicated to serving
our congregants, to making CBT the Shul that cares about and works for our members. The
INCLUSION INITIATIVE welcomes and invites your input.
Zelene Lovitt | [email protected]
From Inclusion
How can you make a difference at Beth Torah and directly impact what we do? We want to inform
our members on the various funds to which your donations help us provide and give us the tools to
thrive.
There are three main funds that are linked to ritual.
CEMETRY FUND—Helps support the Beth Torah Cemetery and Chevra
Kadisha. Donations to this fund are used to help maintain and beautify our cemetery
facilities and to help cover supply expenses of the Chevra Kadisha.
DEE DEE FIELDS McKITTRICK TORAH FUND—Provides for the maintenance of any
Torah at Beth Torah as well as for any youth studies program at Beth Torah. Money
from this fund may be allocated to the purchase of new Mahzor’s for our guests at
High Holidays
RITUAL FUND—Funds the purchase and/or repair of ritual items as well as subsidize
items and/or events that facilitates the improvement/advancement of ritual life, the
Social Action Committee, and the goals of the Holiday Committee.
Neil Burnstein | Ritual–[email protected]
About Our Funds
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
Share
Your News! Do you have news you’d
like to share with your
Beth Torah family? Send
us your Bar/Bat Mitzvahs,
engagement/marriages,
graduations, new babies,
baby-naming/Bris...you
get the idea!
Just go to http://cbt.news/
congregantnews to
submit online or email it
to communications@
congregationbethtorah.org.
Rabbi Elana Zelony | [email protected]
Habitat for Halakha Jewish law teaches that we use the cycle of the High
Holidays, from the first of Elul through Simchat Torah for
contemplation. One way to do this is to recite Psalm 27.
Traditionally, this is done during morning and evening
prayers. If you don’t have a daily prayer practice, please
consider starting with a small step during Elul, which
begins Sunday, September 4 this year.
Place a copy of Psalm 27 next to your bed and recite it
when you awaken and when you go to sleep. Then, spend
a few moments thinking about the ways you want to
change and grow this year.
Helping to Celebrate the Compassion Games September 15, 7:00–9:00 PM
Contact Anna Segal / [email protected]
This gathering is to collect all the items and to finish up last projects
as well as talk and socialize. It's not too late to join this joint event
with other Richardson religious congregations.
Each house of worship that chooses to participate are to work to
gather yarn or other items that can be used to create scarves, hats,
fingerless gloves (yarn, fleece, other warm fabrics) that can be
utilized by their own house of worship or given to the Richardson
Interfaith Alliance to be distributed to others. Items can be knitted,
crocheted, sewn, or created in any way that produces a warm item.
Scarves should be at least 5 feet in length and 12 inches wide. Hats
should be made to fit at least a teen's head or larger. The goal is to
produce 100 sets (a set is a hat and a scarf). Please log your hours
so that they can be posted on the Compassion Games website. Items
will be donated to groups helping the homeless in the DFW area.
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
Adult Education Opportunities
The Talmud The Talmud is the foundational text upon which all modern forms of Judaism
stand. Come explore, spar with, and make meaning of this sacred book.
Open to all learners. Hebrew text is provided but class discussions will be
based on English translation. Light breakfast served.
Led by Rabbi Zelony / [email protected]
Mondays in the Oneg following 6:45 AM Minyan (time will vary on holidays)
Intro to Judaism
On One Foot
This course will cover the sweep of more than 3,000 years of history, encounter texts and teachers
both ancient and contemporary, and most importantly—have the opportunity to reflect on your
place in the narrative of the Jewish people.
Led by Beri Schwitzer / [email protected]
Tuesdays in the library, 6PM, September 6, 13, 27
Beit Midrash The traditional place to learn Jewish text is a Beit Midrash which means "House of Seeking." Small
groups of students gather in a study-hall type atmosphere to seek wisdom from inside Jewish
texts. Throughout the experience, teachers guide and support the students.
The Book of Samuel with Rabbi Zelony
Insights of Dr. Avivah Zorenberg on the Torah with Beri Schwitzer
Each of these classes will be offered twice—students may stay the full two hours and rotate
through both sessions or take only one class of their choice.
Led by Beri Schwitzer / [email protected]
Wednesdays (Location TBA), 7PM & 8PM, September 7, 14, 21, 28
Jewish Spirituality
The Mystical Tradition and How it Speaks to Our Everyday Lives
Come explore essays of the Chassidic masters and modern scholars to
understand what Judaism has to say about God, inner transformation, spiritual
practice, compassion, healing, tshuva, halacha, and mitzvot.
Led by Rabbi Zelony / [email protected]
Sundays in Room 11, 8AM, September 11, 18, 25
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
Jewish & Christian Study A unique interfaith study group of Jews and Christians. We are learning about each other as we
study primary source texts (Bible, Mishnah) together. We’ve spent the last year studying the
Mishnah, and the Talmud in the context of the development of Judaism in the post Temple period.
We are now looking at the development of early Christianity during the same period. Bring a Bible.
For questions, contact Earl Bills / [email protected]
Monday in the Oneg, September 12, Noon to 1PM
Ritual Havurah
Developing a Regular Torah Study Practice
A little bit of Torah study can be a wonderful way to start the day, share an experience with a friend
and help us understand our tradition better. But, how do we start a daily Torah study
practice? How do we develop the habit, and what are the resources we can use?
Led by Rabbi Zelony / [email protected]
Tuesday, September 20, 7PM, hosted by Joy & Herb Weinstein
Psychology Today: A Current, Expert Update for the Concered & Curious
A current, expert update for the concerned and curious. Join Alan Koenigsberg, M.D. as he breaks
down the barriers of mental illnesses, builds understanding of their impact, and overviews common
supports. Each month, Dr. Koenigsberg will cover a variety of topics. Find out more and see the
video, as well as new monthly topics as they are added, online at http://cbt.news/DRK2016.
For questions, contact Beri Schwitzer / [email protected]
Sunday (Location TBA), September 25, 10AM—topic is Depression
Adult Education Opportunities
GAN TOV: HOW GOOD DOES OUR GARDEN GROW?
We are exploring the possibility of establishing a Gan Tov
gardening group at CBT—it would be for all ages and bring
together Learning Center, Adult Education, Ritual, Social
Action, Youth, volunteer gardeners, etc. Using a special
curriculum that incorporates Torah text and digging in the
dirt, our hands-on learning allows us to grow as
Jews and feed souls! We hope to donate our
produce to the JFS food pantry. To learn more,
email [email protected].
Interested in
Hebrew at all
levels?
Let us know! Contact Beri Schwitzer at
972.234.1542 x224
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
Shul Doings FESTIVE FIRST FRIDAY SERVICE 2 September, Friday, 8PM
Join us for this special monthly service celebrating upcoming birthdays and anniversaries.
NO CLC CLASSES / BUSINESS OFFICES CLOSED 4 September, Sunday
BUSINESS OFFICES CLOSED 5 September, Monday
INTRO TO JUDAISM: ON ONE FOOT
6, 13, 27 September, Tuesdays, 6PM (Library) (See page 14 for details)
BEIT MIDRASH 7, 14, 21, 28 Sept, Wednesdays, 7PM & 8PM (See page 14 for details)
SHABBAT DINNER 9 September, Friday, 6:30 PM Contact Debbie Wills [email protected]
Join us to honor our outgoing president, Alan Hoffman, past president, Chuck Smith, and outgoing executive committee members: Joe Liken, Vikki Silvis, and Jessica Winter. Help us prepare for a great evening by RSVP-ing either online at http://cbt.news/cbtdinner or calling the office. At 6PM in the sanctuary, Beri Schwitzer will have story time for young families or anyone interested.
SERVICE TIME CHANGE 9 September, Friday, 8PM Contact [email protected]
Friday Night service will begin at 8PM instead of the usual 6:30 PM to allow for a special Shabbat dinner.
SCHMOOZING WITH THE MIDDLE 10 September, Saturday, 8:40 PM Contact Gloria & Phil Stayman [email protected]
The Middle is a purely social, all-inclusive, non-exclusive group of post-carpool, pre-retirement age people. If this sounds like you and you’re looking for a little fun, join us!
JEWISH SPIRITUALITY The Mystical Tradition and How it Speaks to Our Everyday Lives 11, 18, 25 September, Sunday, 8AM (Rm 11) (See page 14 for details)
TALK ‘N FOLD (M3) 11 September, Sunday, 11AM (Workroom) Contact Lisa Miller [email protected]
Come help fold, seal, label, and postage the monthly mailing. The more hands we have, the faster it goes! This mailing is done the second Sunday of each month at 11AM so put it on your calendar!
MISHMASH BRUNCH 11 September, Sunday, 10AM (Offsite) Contact [email protected]
Join MishMash (CBT’s newest social group) for brunch at Panera Bread in Richardson while the kids attend Sunday School. MishMash is made up (mostly) of parents of school–aged kids…sort of. Some have kids…some don’t. Some of us are married…some aren’t.
FEEDING CHILDREN EVERYWHERE 11 September, Sunday, 12–5PM Contact Ruben Granado [email protected]
Help package 125,000 meals for hungry children with your neighbors of all cultures and faiths. Join Rabbi Zelony and her family at the 1:15 shift at the Richardson Civic Center. You must sign-up in advance. For more details, to register or to make a donation please visit https://feedingchildreneverywhere.com/richardson2016.
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
DIY CARDS
Personal handwritten notes grow rarer by the
day and, yet, they are the best way to remind
someone that you value them.
You can help sustain Beth Torah while also
showing the people who matter to your life
that they are important to you by purchasing
and sending Do-It-Yourself donation cards
from Congregation Beth Torah.
Stop by the office to purchase cards and
envelopes for $13 per donation (must choose
fund upon pick-up).
CHAI LIGHTS KICK-OFF DINNER 11 September, Sunday, 5PM (Oneg) Contact Joy & Herb Weinstein [email protected]
Chai Lights' events are only open to their members so if you're 50 or over and not a member of Chai Lights, you're missing the fun! Contact Joy & Herb about joining.
TEXAS HOLD’EM POKER 14 September, Wednesday, 7PM (Oneg) Contact Neil Burnstein [email protected]
Come for a night of fun and friendship. $20 members and $25 non-members.
BAT MITZVAH 16 & 17 September, Friday & Saturday (See page 8 for details)
MEN’S CLUB BREAKFAST PROGRAM 18 September, Sunday, 9AM Contact Brian Rubenstein [email protected]
This monthly breakfast program, featuring speaker Chuck Greenberg, is open to everyone. $7 member / $10 non–member.
USY & KADIMA “HANG OUT” 18 September, Sunday, 12–2PM (YL) Contact [email protected]
For all youth ages 6th to 12th grade, come "hang out" with USY and Kadima kids for food and fun after Learning Center.
RITUAL HAVURAH 20 September, Tuesday, 7PM (See page 15 for details)
COMMUNITY SELICHOT SERVICE 24 September, Saturday, 8:45–10:45 PM (See page 10 for details)
PSYCHOLOGY TODAY: A CURRENT, EXPERT UPDATE FOR THE CONCERNED & CURIOUS
25 September, Sunday, 10AM (Location TBA) (See page 15 for details)
BOARD MEETING 26 September, Monday, 7:30 PM (Oneg) Contact Lisa Miller [email protected]
Monthly board meetings are open to all CBT members with Minyan starting at 7:15 PM.
More Shul Doings
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
Ladies Who Lunch Tuesday, 12:30 PM
27 September, 15 November, 13 December, 17 January (2017 dates to come)
Go Dutch with us once a month and gab with the
girls while enjoying a new culinary spot around
town. For location, RSVP at least a week in
advance to Carol Taper at [email protected].
Sisterhood Esther Cohen & Robyn Rose | [email protected]
Membership By joining or renewing your membership today,
you will benefit from a time–limited preferred
rate of $40. A reminder that new Beth Torah
members enjoy their first year of membership
completely free of charge! *Paid-up
membership includes the annual membership
brunch on October 16 at 9:30 AM. Please
complete the registration form http://cbt.news/
sisterhoodapp for your 2016–2017 membership.
If you have any questions or prefer a paper
membership form, please contact Elaine Scharf
at [email protected] or 972.307.3521.
Torah Discussion Thursday, 5:45–7:30 PM (Oneg Rm)
8 September, 10 November, 8 December, 19 January, 9 February
Our monthly dinner meeting features a
discussion based on Rabbi Barry L. Schwartz'
Judaism's Great Debates: Timeless
Controversies from Abraham to Herzl. $10 per
session for dinner. Pre—pay for all five sessions
and receive a 20% discount when you complete
your membership form. RSVP to Nancy Siegel
Break-the-Fast and High Holiday Bimah Flowers If you are interested in helping Sisterhood
sponsor, please contact Esther Cohen at
*Membership Brunch Sunday, 16 October, 9:30 AM
This is our kick-off event! This annual event is
open to all paid–up Sisterhood members.
Others welcome for $40 per person. Sandra
Moudy from Dallas Food Truck Pros will be
entertaining us with her talk, "For the Love of
the Truck." She'll cover the history of food
trucks, route trucks vs gourmet food trucks vs
brick and mortar, business and economics of
food trucks, and take questions. Join us for a
fun morning!
College Connection Help your student stay connected to Beth Torah
while away at school! For $66 we will send 3
festive packages filled with traditional foods, fun
gifts, and greetings from our Rabbi and
Sisterhood throughout the school year. Anyone
can order—mom, dad, grandparents, aunts,
uncles, friends...anyone and everyone! To
order, contact Melanie at [email protected].
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
Book Club 20 September, Tuesday, 7:30 PM
The Richardson Reads One Book pick for 2016 is Spare Parts by Joshua Davis.
Please plan to arrive at Richardson High School by 6:30 PM to pick up your
ticket—doors open at 6:45 PM.
Synopsis: Four undocumented Mexican American teenagers, two great
teachers, one robot building contest and the battle for the American Dream. In
2004, four Latino teenagers arrived at the Marine Advanced Technology Education Robotics
Competition. They were born in Mexico but raised in Phoenix, Arizona where they attended an
underfunded public high school. Two inspiring science teachers had convinced these kids from the
dessert who had never even seen the ocean that they should try to build an underwater robot.
13 October, Thursday 7:00 PM
The Tycher Library Community Read at the JCC will be Anna and the Swallow
Man by Gavriel Savit. Plan on meeting for dinner at Cindi's (11111 Central
Expressway) at 5:30 PM and attend the author's discussion as a group. Please e
-mail [email protected] if you plan to attend by October 7 so
a reservation can be made for you.
See all of the books for the coming months at http://congregationbethtorah.org/
bookclub.
For questions about the Sisterhood Book Club, contact Carol Rothschild at 972.805.3612 or
Sisterhood Esther Cohen & Robyn Rose | [email protected]
Sisterhood Dates to Save
Break the Fast, 12 October
Membership Brunch, 16 October
Intra-Faith Lunch, 22 January
Torah Fund Brunch, 26 February
Purim Bag Delivery, 12 March
Sponsored Shabbat & Dinner, 31 March
Dinner & Election, 11 May
KNITTING CIRCLE 9 November, Wednesday, 7PM
Our circle includes experienced knitters and
beginners. Bring your current project and
questions, or work on items to donate, and join
our wonderful schmooze! Check in at the
Member's Lounge. Questions? Contact Kimber
Miller—[email protected]. Future dates:
14 Dec, 11 Jan, 8 Feb, 8 Mar, 12 Apr, 10 May.
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
Brian Rubenstein | [email protected]
From Men’s Club
Social Action will have our annual non-perishable food and toiletry drive. As usual, on Kol Nidre and Yom Kippur (October 11 & 12), a couple of vehicles will be parked just outside the synagogue entrance where you can directly deposit items. All food will go to JFS.
There is always a need for toiletries (shampoo, soap, toothpaste and deodorant) and meals in a box (Rice-a-Roni, chicken/hamburger/tuna Helpers are often in short supply). Cookies, cleaning items (dish soap, detergent), and paper goods (paper towels, facial tissue) are extras that the pantry does not often have. Expired foods will be discarded!
Antisemitism: Just Under the Surface This year we welcome Dr. David Patterson, Hillel A. Feinberg Chair in
Holocaust Studies in the Ackerman Center at the University of Texas at
Dallas.
Following our regular Festive First Friday Kabbalat service, hear 'The
Why of Anti-Semitism through the Lens of Judaism.'
Dr. Patterson will continue his discussion with a D'Var during Shabbat
service followed by an after–lunch discussion on 'Contemporary Anti-
Semitism: From Left-Wing Intellectuals to Islamic Jihadists to College
Campuses and at Work.'
$36 Beth Torah Members ● $45 Non–Members ● $10 Students
Robin Popik & Evelyn Utay | Adult–[email protected]
2016 Mark A. Siegel Scholar-in-Residence
September is a busy time for Men's Club as we had a great kick off event in August and now are ready for the year. Coming up on September 18, we will host Chuck Greenberg for our monthly breakfast. We also continue with our efforts for the big event in October—the Second Annual Dallas Kosher BBQ Championship.
Be watching for a busy October leading up to the BBQ event as we have High Holiday services to usher (be watching for the sign up online soon!), cigars and spirits to enjoy, a sukkah to build (and take down!), and all the prep and volunteer opportunities for the BBQ.
If you have not already signed up or renewed your membership, come do it at breakfast!
Beth Mond & Ruben Granado [email protected]
Project Isaiah
the november 4 & 5
Page 21
Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
David Engelberg | [email protected]
We Gratefully Acknowledge the Following Contributions
Burn the Mortgage —Suzie & Howard Hacker
A Speedy Recovery For
Gilda Daniel —Esther & Nat Cohen
Harry Morris —Esther & Nat Cohen
In Celebration Of
Evelyn Utay's Birthday —Esther & Nat
Cohen
In Memory Of
Luba Bonn —Irwin Roth
Max Weinstein —Esther Rae & Jay
Weinstein
Rose Pincus —Irwin Roth
Camp Scholarship Fund
In Memory Of
Erich Mosbacher —Marilyn & Stan
Rothstein
Inclusion Initiative —Inclusion Committee
Congregational Learning Center
In Honor Of
Dylan Rose's Bar Mitzvah —Carol & Gene
Taper
Esther & Nat Cohen —Elaine Bernstein
In Memory Of
Anne Cohen —Harriet Sham
Rabbi's Discretionary Fund —Ava Skipworth
In Honor Of
Joyful Noise —Esther & Nat Cohen
Dee Dee Fields–McKittrick —Patti &
Howard Fields
Joyce Abramowitz —Anita & Marc
Abramowitz
Laurence Taper —Carol & Gene Taper
Melvyn Lischin —Susan & Barry Slotnick
Melvyn Lischin
Michele Mandell's father, Harvey Schein
—Cheryl & Michael Kasner
Minnie Gassner —Patti & Howard Fields
Sara Zorinsky —Sheryl & Eldon Zorinsky
Ritual
In Honor Of
Dylan Rose's Bar Mitzvah —Jill & Louis
Kaiser
Ritual Kiddush
—Hanna Farbiarz
Robert Linker Liquor Fund —Cyd & Cliff Friedman
In Honor Of
Ethel Gruen's Birthday —Linda & Garry
Kahalnik
Our Family —Jenny & Lou Fisher
Sara Ackerman Library Fund
In Honor Of
Dylan Rose's Bar Mitzvah —Ellen & Gary
Ackerman
Don't See Your Donation?
Contact the Rabbi's Secretary, Heather 972.234.1542 x227
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
Ritual Committee | [email protected]
Lighting a Candle Perhaps the best known custom for
observing a Yahrzeit is lighting a candle
made to burn for at least 24 hours. We
light the candle at home on the evening
that the Yahrzeit begins. It is a symbol of
the soul and spirit of the deceased. If a
Yahrzeit falls on Shabbat or a Holiday,
the candle is typically lit before the
Shabbat or holiday candles. Although
there is no formal blessing when lighting
the candle, a meditation may be said. It is
appropriate, of course, to use your own
words and thoughts.
Attending Services The Yahrzeit observance lasts a full day
and it is customary to attend services on
the Shabbat before the Yahrzeit. You will
receive a reminder from the office each
year, sharing with you the date in which
the name of your loved one will be read,
and the name will be read prior to the
Kaddish prayer. Should you wish to
change the date in which you want the
name to be read, please contact the
Synagogue office at 972.234.1542 x221.
Tzedakah It is traditional to do Tzedakah—righteous
acts of charitable giving—when observing
a Yahrzeit to honor the memory of the
deceased. The annual reminders you
receive from the shul includes a donation
slip if you wish to give to Beth Torah.
Yahrzeit is a Yiddish word meaning “a year’s time”
and it is the remembrance of the anniversary of a
loved one’s death. It is observed each year on the
date of death.
One of the many services that Congregation Beth
Torah offers to its members is the reminder of family
yahrzeits. Yahrzeit is the memorialization of a loved
one on the anniversary of their death. It is a very
emotional time for family and friends of the deceased
and, at CBT, we do our best to ensure that yahrzeits
are announced and family members are notified in a
timely manner. We depend on the family to inform us
of the date of a loved one’s death. It is the tradition at
CBT, and of Conservative congregations in general,
to observe a yahrzeit based on the Hebrew calendar.
To make it easy for those congregants who may not
be familiar with the Hebrew calendar, we ask for the
secular calendar date and we make the conversion.
However, while a day on the secular calendar starts
at 12:00 AM, midnight, and goes through 11:59 PM,
the day on the Hebrew calendar starts at sundown
and goes through sundown. Therefore, it is very
important that when you report the date of a yahrzeit,
you must specify whether the death occurred before
or after sundown on the secular date so that we can
convert it to the correct Hebrew date. If you are not
sure if it was before or after sundown, provide the
date and the time of death (always listed on the
death certificate) and we will determine when
sundown was.
Questions? If you have any questions about yahrzeit
dates, or anything having to do with the
rituals and customs surrounding the end
of life experience, contact—
All About Yahrzeits
Rabbi Zelony ([email protected])
Ritual Committee ([email protected])
Cemetery Committee ([email protected])
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Congregation Beth Torah monthly Family Record
Although there is no prescribed prayer
for lighting a yahrzeit candle, you might
include the following meditation in
addition to your own personal memories:
I haven't forgotten you, even though
it's been some time now since I've
seen your face, touched your hand,
heard your voice. You are with me all
the time. I used to think you left me. I
know better now. You come to me.
Sometimes in fleeting moments I feel
your presence close by. But I still miss
you. And nothing, no person, no joy,
no accomplishment, no distraction, not
even God, can fill the gaping hole your
absence has left in my life. But mixed
together with all the sadness, there is
a great joy for having known you. I
want to thank you for the time we
shared, for the love you gave, for the
wisdom you spread. Thank you for the
magnificent moments and for the
ordinary ones too. There was beauty
in our simplicity. Holiness in our
unspectacular days. And I will carry
the lessons you taught me always.
Your life has ended, but your light can
never be extinguished. It continues to
shine upon me even on the darkest
nights and illuminates my way. I light
this candle in your honor and in your
memory. May God bless you as you
have blessed me with love, with grace,
and with peace. Amen.
Yahrzeits
These names will be read at
Shabbat services on the
dates listed. To make a
correction or add a new
name, contact the office at
972.234.1542 or go online to http://
congregationbethtorah.org/
yahrzeit-info/
September 2 & 3 Jay Wanger
Rhonda Fisher
Izzie Bold
Maurice Freedman
Max B. Danenberg
Murray Ingber
Manuel Joison
Joseph Levin
Allan Sparage
Max Meth
Pauline Marksfeld
Samuel Robins
George Seiden
Helen Wells
Louis Lieberman
Macey Matisoff
Robert Weiss
Samuel Finkelshtain
Edwina Hammond
Irving "Sunny" Hacker
September 9 & 10 Louis Stein
Bickey Shum
Leonard Kelewitz
Frank Guzick
Harry Rubin
Meyer Levinson
William Shapero
Celia Goode
Dr Allen Winer
Alvin A. Shapero
Edith Ingber
September 16 & 17 Celia Mostovitch
Rabbi Leo Eliezer Turitz
Leo Ingber
Pearl Wise
Rose Pincus
Ruth Herman
David Navias
Ron Gruen
Samuel Engelberg
Anne Cohen
Richard Dubsky
Sam Zorinsky
September 23 & 24 David Goldberg
Eugene Leibs
Gertrude Shapero
Harry Singer
Joseph Cohen
Sophie Geller
Ada Mayoff
Alvin Zeff
Cantor Bernard Saitz
Luba Bonn
Mary Lakernick
Mayzelle Porter
Aaron Zachery Gruen
Alexander Kesselman
Mark Weiss
Mary Surasky
Sam Cohen
William Segal
Deborah Greenberg
Herbert Blumka
George Schwitzer
Ida Cooper
Angelo E. Lombardi
Anita Wohlman
Bessie Quat
Pearl Gans
Florence Blinn
Milton Green
Congregation Beth Torah
720 W. Lookout Drive
Richardson, Texas 75080
Services Minyan
9:00 AM
Sunday
6:45 AM
Monday, Non-Holiday
8:30 AM
Monday, Holidays
Shabbat
9:30 AM
Main Service
Babysitting in Room 1
10:30 AM
Junior Congregation
11:00 AM
Tot Shabbat (second and
fourth Shabbat of the
month)
Kabbalat Shabbat
6:30 PM
Friday
8:00 PM
Festive First Friday! Join us
on the first Friday of each
month for a special service
where we celebrate the
month’s upcoming birthdays
and anniversaries—
September 2
October 7
November 4
December 2
January 6
February 3
March 3
Israeli Dancing Contact Linda Kahalnik
All dancers welcome! We meet on Wednesday evenings in the
Multi-Purpose room (unless otherwise noted on the
synagogue calendar). Free for members. $5 for non-members. 7:30 PM to 8:15 PM beginners. 8:30 to 10:30 PM for advanced.
Tot Shabbat Contact Jessica Winter
On the 2nd
and 4th Saturday of
the month at 11AM in the MPR room, bring your tot and enjoy singing, dancing, storytelling and a snack. It’s a fun-filled ritual to educate, entertain, enthrall, and envelope our
youngest members.
