shironshiraminow.org/wp-content/uploads/shirami_dec_shiron2017v3.pdf · a few words from rabbi...

The Monthly Newsletter from Shir Ami in Newtown, Pennsylvania

ShironDecember 2017 | Kislev • Tevet 5778

IN THIS ISSUE ________________________________________________________

From the Rabbi’s Desk ................... Page 3

Chanukah Events and more ........... Page 7

WoSA and Men’s Club .................. 3

In The Community photos ........... Page 17

Brisket Cook-Off Event .......... Back Cover ________________________________________________________

... and so much more inside!

101 Richboro Rd | Newtown, PA 18940 | www.shiraminow.org Main: 215.968.3400 | Religious School: 215.968.3254 | E.L.C.: 215.968.6255

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A FEW WORDS FROM RABBI SIMON SHIRON | December 2017

I have only stood on a roof once in my life. I was helping to build a house for Habitat for Humanity and somehow I ended up assigned to shingle nailing. I have no problem with roller coasters, ropes courses, or skyscrapers; I am fine with heights as long as I’m enclosed or strapped in, but standing on that roof was about as scared as I had ever been. In addition to my gratitude for being able to help someone less fortunate than myself and, of course, my prayers to not fall, I remember having two specific thoughts connected to my Judaism. First, I gained a new understanding of Deuteronomy 22:8, commanding that when you build a new house, you must build a parapet (a small wall) around the roof. At a time when people spent significant time on their roof, the Torah commanded that we must do so as safely as possible. (The roof on which I was shingling had no such parapet!) My other “Jewish thought” was gratitude that I would never have to hang Christmas lights.

However, while we may not have the tradition of hanging lights from our roofs, the custom of a public light display does have its origins in Chanukah. In the Babylonian Talmud (Shabbat 21a), we read:

Our Rabbis taught: It is incumbent to place the Chanukah lamp by the door of one’s house on the outside; if one dwells in an upper chamber, he places it at the window nearest the street.

If you think about it, it makes quite a bit of sense. How do we commemorate a holiday that celebrates our ability to freely be Jews? We shout out to the world, “We’re Jewish!” We put our Chanukah menorah in a place where our neighbors and passersby will see it, publicizing our Judaism and our pride of that Judaism.

The Talmud continues, however, with a provision:

But in times of danger it is sufficient to place it on the table.

In other words, while the Rabbis wanted us to celebrate our freedom, they also realized that even after the time of the Maccabees, there were, and would always be, times in which that freedom was a fragile one, and if having your Chanukah menorah visible would make you vulnerable to an attack, it was not worth that risk. Thank God, we are living in a time and place in which we can proudly wear our Judaism on our sleeves. We may encounter ignorance and insensitive comments, and while we are on the list of vulnerable communities, there are

others who are far more at risk.

I am extremely proud to let you all know that Shir Ami has signed on to the Reform Movement’s Religious Action Center’s Brit Olam, a Covenant with the World, “because we seek the world we want, not the world as it is.” The Brit Olam is uniting synagogues who want to help those who can’t always safely coexist with their neighbors, who live in fear, who have to hide part of themselves because sharing it would put them at risk. Over the coming months, we will have multiple opportunities to share in conversation of what exactly this will mean for Shir Ami, but our goal is to help create a Bucks County and a United States in which all can feel the same freedoms we do. I am happy to speak with anyone who would like to be a part of that conversation, as is our President, Sharon Benoff, or our Tikkun Olam Chair, Corinne Strauss. Please feel free to be in touch any time.

As scared as I was that morning on that roof, I know that so many others live with that fear during every moment of their lives. We are the ones who can build a parapet; we are the ones who can help them to let their light shine.

Chag Orim Sameach, May each of your lights shine bright this Chanukah,

Rabbi Joel Simon

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- Rabbi Simon

We Are the Ones Who Can Help Let Their Light Shine

DECEMBER WORSHIP CALENDAR

Week of December 1

Friday Dec 1: Shabbat Service with SHIR KLEZ!

7:30pm Join us for a wonderful Shabbat

Saturday, Dec 2:

10:15am SHABBAT WORSHIP / ZIBELMAN BAr MItZvAh

10:15am CHEVRAT TORAH

led by Rabbinical Intern Miriam Geronimus in the Chodorow Family Life Center

Week of December 22

Friday Dec 22: Shabbat Service with the Choir

7:30pm Let’s make music together!

Saturday, Dec 23:


led by Rabbi Joel Simonin the Chodorow Family Life Center

Week of December 29

Friday Dec 29: Shabbat Service

7:30pm

Saturday, Dec 30:


led by Rabbi Paula Goldberg in the Chodorow Family Life Center

Week of December 8

Week of December 15

Friday Dec 8: Shabbat Service7:30pm

Saturday, Dec 9:

7:30am SHABBAT WALKING / RUNNING GROUP


led by Rabbinical Intern Miriam Geronimus in the Chodorow Family Life Center

Friday Dec 15: Family Shabbat Service, with7:30pm Anniversary/ Birthday Blessings, and the

Chanukah story told by our 8th grade class

Saturday, Dec 16:

7:30am SHABBAT WALKING / RUNNING GROUP

10:15am SHABBAT WORSHIP / KUrtZ BAr MItZvAh


led by Rabbi Paula Goldberg in the Chodorow Family Life Center

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A schedule of services and other weekly ritual events follow. Congregants of all ages are welcome at all of our services. All Erev Shabbat Services and B’nai Mitzvah will take place in the Abraham-Swerdlow Sanctuary, unless otherwise noted. For a full calendar listing of all upcoming Shir Ami events throughout our community, we invite you to visit www.shiraminow.org

New Hours: Friday night Shabbat Services now begin at 7:30pm

Walk With Us on ShabbatShabbat can be an important reminder to take care of our bodies and

our souls, and Rabbi Eric Goldberg will be leading a running/walking

Shabbat throughout the year. We will meet at the canal/towpath near

Washington Crossing Park at 7:30am for a brief service/Torah study,

walk or run with others or at your own pace, and, for those who wish,

meet at Colonial Farms for a cup of coffee

and a concluding prayer. For more

info: [email protected] or

215.968.3254.

Saturdays: December 9 & 16

Refuah Shleimah*

Debbie Berlin Norton Borochaner Judith Buch Chickie BuschStephen Bush Ethel Cohen Stacy Curry Rochelle Einheber Kenneth GibbsBonnie GoldsteinBradley GoodmanMelissa Hashemian

Charles HudesJim JohnsonAlbert JonesKaren KatzRena Karlin Amy Lasner Estelle Lasner Gloria Lemonick Ann Levitt Adrianne LoevMarvin LoevHarold Mansfield

Nina Bat VaraHarriett ObusMarci Rubin Michael SandmanGreg Schwartz Harlee SchwartzRick SideritsLydia SolomonovAndrea Stein Brad StoltzAndrea Tankin

CONDOleNCeS*

To Harriet Levy, on the passing of her husband Saul Levy

To Karen Surkin, on the passing of her father Leonard Shapiro

To Helene Whiteside, on the passing of her mother Arlene Roberson

To Susan Wolbransky, on the passing of her sister Beth Alper

mazal TOv!*

To Joshua Losben, son of Andee and Steve (z”l) Losben, for being one of 20 finalists out of 1,000 in the comedy script pilot category at the Austin Film Festival.

TODah RaBah*

To Ilene Kniaz and the Women of Shir Ami for organizing the Chanukah Bazaar

To the Men’s Club for hosting a Hospitality Room during the Bazaar

To Melissa Caplan and Bari Jacobson for organizing a very successful Tot Shabbat with YoYo

WelCOme NeW memBeRS!*

Janice ZoltakFritz, Dari, Luccia, and Enzo Kunstler

SHIR AMI NEWS

If you would like to share an achievement, milestone, refuah, simcha or other news in Shiron, please contact us: 215.968.3400

SHIRON | December 2017

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DECEMBER B’NAI MITZVAH

JACK ZIBELMANSon of Debbie and Alan Zibelman December 2, 201714 Kislev 5778, Parshat Vayishlah

EvErEtt KUrtZSon of Lisa and Daniel Kurtz December 16, 201728 Kislev 5778, Parshat Miketz

If you are in need of clergy for any reason, contact rabbi Simon: [email protected] 215-968-3400 (x102) cell 813-435-8350

The clergy of Shir Ami and our Chesed (Kindness) Committee want to be there for you in your times of need if you are:

● •facing an illness ● •scheduledforsurgery● •mourningalovedone● •inneedofsomeonetotalkto

Please also let us know if you want to (or don’t want to) be listed in our Refuah Shleimah list.

We also want to celebrate with you in times of joy if you: ● •getengaged● •haveanewchildorgrandchild● •winanaward● •wanttoshareotherexcitingnews

For any of the above or anything else, contact the Shir Ami office or a clergy member directly.

if you NEED uS:

Mazel tov to our December Shir Ami B’nai Mitzvah families:

* AllcontentlistedasofNovember27,2017

Cantor Elson’s Retirement Weekend Celebration

Save tHe Date June1-2,2018JOIN TOGETHER IN COMMUNITY AS WE HONOR

THE CAREER OF OUR BELOVED CANTOR

Shabbat Service, Alan Sheinberg, Chair([email protected])

Oneg, Stephanie Kravatz, Chair ([email protected])

Gala, Becky Markowitz, Chair([email protected])

UPDATE FROM OUR SEARCH COMMITTEES

rABBINIC COMMIttEE

November was incredibly busy for the Rabbinic Search Committee. The 18 members of this committee spent many long evenings reviewing candidate applications, and ultimately scheduled eight virtual interviews. On most occasions we held two interviews per day (or evening), which meant lots of excellent note taking to make sure we remembered everything that was said. Careful analysis and discussion followed, which led to us narrowing down that group to four. We then invited those candidates in to Shir Ami for a second interview. Those rabbis met with the search committee for additional questions and were given an opportunity to teach us. The candidates also had an opportunity to meet with the Shir Ami staff while visiting. The good news is that we are getting close, and are hoping to have a Senior Rabbi candidate to present to our congregation very soon!

CANtOrIAL COMMIttEE

Cantorial search “season” is just beginning. We have received our first several applications through the Joint Cantorial Placement Commission (JCPC.) Our committee is reviewing those applications this month. We have been advised that cantorial searches frequently get busiest during the winter

months. As with the rabbinic search, we will first select cantorial candidates to invite for “virtual” (Skype) interviews, and then narrow our search to finalists who will be brought to Shir Ami for in-person interviews.

Once a new senior rabbi is approved by our congregation, that rabbi will also have opportunities to meet and speak in-depth with cantorial position finalists.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns about the search process, please feel free to contact us at [email protected] or [email protected]

Many Voices. One Song

.

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If you would like to volunteer or have any questions, please contact Alan, Becky, or Stephanie.

Co-chairs rabbinic search committee

DebbieK.Stevens [email protected] [email protected]

Co-chairs cantorial search committee

KenBieber [email protected] [email protected]

To reach your Chairs directly, please write to:

UPCOMING SHIR AMI EVENTS

Wed, December 13 | 6:15pm-8:15pm Location: Shalom Hall Cost: $10/child

SHAFTY presents the annual Chalutzim and Bonim Chanukah hop at Shir Ami. Don’t miss the fun! Includes DJ and dancing, photos, games, prizes and dinner. $10 entrance fee plus an unwrapped toy for donation to Bucks County Children and Youth Services.

CHANUKAHHOP•3rd-6thGraders

thurs, December 14 | 5:30pm-7:30pm Location: Shalom Hall Cost: $25/per family

Join together with the Shir Ami ELC for dancing and games led by a DJ. Songs and a special candle- lighting with clergy. Plus, we’ll be serving a delicious pizza and pasta dinner.

RSVP to the ELC Office: 215.968.6255

ELCCHANUKAHPArty

Wed, January 31, 2018 Location: Stevens Atrium

Session 1 – 5:00pm-6:00pm

Session 2 – 6:45pm-7:45pm

Join Rabbi Simon and our own resident sommelier, Scott Stevens, for a special Tu b’Shevat wine tasting. Tu b’Shevat, as most of us know it, is the “birthday of the trees.” But the Kabbalists (Mystics) of 16th century Safed brought mysticism and wine into the holiday with the Tu B’Shevat Seder. Like the Passover Seder, it includes four cups of wine, progressing from white to red. In addition to wine, a variety of fruits and nuts will help us remember all the things we get from trees. A small “drivers’ pour” will be available, along with grape juice and other non-alcoholic beverages as well.

Tu B’ShevaT WiNe TaSTiNg

RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE

Sun, January 14 | 9:30am-2:30pm

The Shir Ami community gathers together to help save lives.

Please register at Redcrossblood.org with key word SHIR AMI

WOMEN’S SELF DEFENSE CLASS

thurs, January 18 | 7:00pm

Please see page 12 for more details.

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A LOOK AHEAD: UPCOMING IN JANUArY

ShABBAt IN FLOrIDASaturday, January 20 | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Location: JANIS JACOBS’ HOME8181 Muirhead Circle, Boynton Beach, FL 33472

We look forward to seeing you and sharing Shabbat with you! RSVPs are needed by January 15. Please let Cantor Elson know by phone or email: 267-808-8310 or [email protected]

CalliNg all ShiR ami SNOWBiRDS!

ADULT EDUCATION: LIFELONG LEARNING

SHIR AMI BOOK CLUB SELECTIONthey May Not Mean to, But they Do by Cathleen Schine

thursday, December 14 | 7:30pm

tuesday, December 19 | 11:15am

*Due to a scheduling conflict, there will not be a book discussion on Sunday morning the 17th – We apologize for any inconvenience.

As the Bergman family prepares for and reacts to the death of its patriarch, we enter the life of his wife, their middle age daughter with a son just out of college, and their youngest son of three children. This book tackles the issues of this aging family from all perspectives in a humorous, honest, and empathetic way, with details that are relatable to so many of our lives today. After our sessions with Rabbi Address, perhaps we will now look at our own lives differently, and we will be able to discuss the lives of the Bergman family in a new way as well. Rabbi Simon looks forward to sharing this book with you.

If you would like to purchase a copy from us,contact Julie in the office.

Attend any one of these opportunities to discuss the book:

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ChANukAh LAtkE Dinner

thursday, December 14 | 6:30pmAuditorium

Come and Enjoy a Chanukah Latke Dinner prior to the book review. Cost $5.00 per person. RSVP by Friday, December 8 to Jodi ([email protected]).

ShIR AMI LUnCH AnD LeArn

thursday, December 14 | 11:45amled by Rabbi Eric Goldberg

A delicious lunch of bagels, white fish, egg salad, tuna and dessert will be offered.

DECEMBER’S TOPIC: A Letter, A Question and A Most Amazing Answer

In the early 20th century, Rabbi Yosef Messas, who eventually became the chief rabbi of Haifa, was living in Morocco. He received a letter from a member of the community who became skeptical of the well-known story about the oil lasting for eight days that forms the basis for our Chanukah celebration. The student noted that his doubt was rooted in the fact that he was unable to find a written source that ‘proved’ such an event had happened. He had heard the story from his parents and family many times, but they didn’t quote the rabbis of the Talmud or ancient sages of our tradition. What was the rabbi’s answer? How does it help us understand Jewish observance on Chanukah and throughout the year? Why would his answer make every Jewish mother happy?

Come and join us for an afternoon of learning about Rabbi Messas, his answer to this question and Sephardic Chanukah observance.

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Synagogue Member

“I’m thankful for my family.” “I’m thankful for my toys.” “I’m thankful for food.” These are just some of the many responses the children gave when asked what they were thankful for as Thanksgiving approached. The children learned and explored all about Thanksgiving and the first Thanksgiving feast as they prepared for their own. They made costumes and dressed up as Pilgrims, Indians and turkeys, baked yummy treats with pumpkin, corn, cranberries and applesauce, and created beautiful artwork to represent the holiday and season. Let’s not forget the joyful songs you could hear throughout all the hallways. We also had a wonderful visit from Briarbush Nature Center. Our 3-year-old, PreK and Kindergarten children got to learn all about the Lenape Indians. They dressed up in animal skinned clothes, played games the Lenape children played, and got to experience, first hand, what it was like to be a Lenape Indian child back then. Miss Susan also taught us some really fun Thanksgiving songs, fingerplays and dances in Music class.

A special thank you to all the parents who helped wrap, set-up, shop and clean up for our Secret Shop fundraiser. The kids had a great time shopping for gifts for their families. Thank you Preschool Committee for all your hard work. We are working toward tuning up our playground!!

As we look ahead to December, we will begin learning about Chanukah. Stay tuned for our Kindergarten production of, “Judah Who Always Said No!” It’s always a hit!!

SHIR AMI | EARLY LEARNING CENTER

Many Reasons to Be Thankful

Shari Beck-Nahman, ELC Director

For more about Shir Ami’s acclaimed Early Learning Center, contact Shari Beck-Nahman at [email protected] 215.968.6255

UPCOMING IN DECEMBERDec 8 - NO SCHOOL - Parent/Teacher Conferences (Infant Center Open)

Dec 14 - ELC Chanukah Party

Dec 18, 19, 20 - Kindergarten Plays and Age Level Chanukah Parties

Dec 22 - School-wide Pajama Party

Dec 26 - Jan 1 - School Closed for Winter Break(Infant Center Open 12/27,12/28,12/29)

Don’tMisstheJAN18thE.L.C.-SponsoredWOMEN’S SELF-DEFENSE WORKSHOP

See Registration Info and other details on page 12


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During the Jewish month of Kislev we once again get to celebrate Chanukah. Chanukah is filled with all types of wonderful traditions, including lighting the hanukkiah, singing songs like Maoz Tzur and remembering the brave acts of our ancestors, the Maccabees. There is the giving and receiving of gifts and, hopefully, taking the time to give back to others who are in need.

Chanukah is also a time of great debates: In the Talmud we read of one such debate between the school of Rabbi Hillel and Rabbi Shammai regarding how to light the hanukkiah. Rabbi Shammai’s school states that we should begin by lighting eight candles on the first night, seven on the second night, and so on until we reach the eighth night on which we should light only one candle. Rabbi Hillel’s school believes the exact opposite: We should begin by lighting one candle on the first night, two on the second until we reach eight on the final night of Chanukah. The rationale for Hillel’s school is simple: We should only increase in holiness throughout our lives and never decrease. Therefore, start with one candle and finish with eight. As we know, Hillel’s school ‘wins’ this debate and for centuries Jews around the world have lit their hanukiot in the fashion he taught.

At Shir Ami’s Religious School, we see debates like this as an important insight into what it means to be a Jew. We teach our children it is okay to have differing points of view (as long as they are logically defensible and do not seek to harm others), that we should be respectful of everyone’s opinion on a subject and that using our minds to solve problems (both Jewish and otherwise) is of the highest importance in Jewish thought.

With this in mind, here’s a fun debate to have with your kids/family/friends over Chanukah. It is not as serious as the debate between Hillel and Shammai, but it is one that I am sure will bring out strong opinions on both sides. As you know, the miracle of Chanukah is the oil in the Temple lasting for eight days. As a result, it is customary on Chanukah to eat foods that are fried in oil. So, here is a question: Which are better – Latkes or Donuts (sufganiyot in Hebrew)? While I have a clear winner (latkes), I make sure to sample both latkes and sufganiyot each year just to make sure my opinion doesn’t change.

Please let me know your answer tothis delicious debate and I hope you and your family have a sweet Chanukah.

L’Shalom. Eric

Rabbi Eric Goldberg, Religious School Director

SHIR AMI | RELIGIOUS SCHOOL

A Great (and Delicious) Debate

For more information about the Shir Ami Religious School, contact Rabbi Eric Goldberg [email protected] | 215.968.3254

DECEMBER DAtESSunday December 102nd Grade Family Program (9-11am) in Shalom Hall

Friday December 15 8th Grade Shabbat Experience (5:30-9pm)

Sunday December 17 6th Grade Family Program (9-11am) in Shalom Halland 9th Grade Volunteer Day at Woods School (1-3pm)

Sunday December 24 - Sunday December 31No Religious School (Winter Break)

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I don’t watch much TV so it took me some time to finish the Netflix series, “13 Reasons Why.” I felt so many emotions while watching – anger, sadness, confusion, frustration, curiosity and sympathy. But, when it was over, I had one final takeaway from the show … to encourage parents and teens to watch it in its entirety. Not just the series, but the 30 minutes after, which is just as important – maybe more so – than the show itself. It’s my understanding that some parents, educators and medical experts thought the show glamorized suicide. From my perspective, not only was it not the intention of the writer and producers, but I cannot see how anyone could think teen suicide and the underlying problems that lead to it are glamorous. My short message to you, watch it. Watch it with your teens or by yourself. Have meaningful discussions about it. Issues such as suicide, sexual assault, bullying, rape, alcohol, drugs and peer pressure ARE REAL. They aren’t going away, so it’s up to us as parents to talk about it. These discussions can equip your kids with the right tools to help them get through these extremely difficult teenage years. Today, our social media society doesn’t allow for safe spaces anymore, and teens can’t easily “take a break” from their lives in this social world. In just one second a kid’s life can be changed, good or bad.

Let’s work hard to encourage your kids to speak kindly and with positive intention. Sign them up to be a part of a weekend retreat in NFTY where programs focus on the aforementioned topics. In NFTY, safe space is provided so that kids can be open about their feelings and learn best practices. Have them attend a URJ overnight camp where a focus is the mental health of teens. Be an active listener. Don’t judge, just listen... and listen carefully. And, if you find this conversation too difficult, feel free to contact me or any member of our clergy; our doors are always open. Have a wonderful Chanukah! We hope to see many of you at our upcoming December events.

Don’t Judge . . . Listen Carefully

For more info about SHAFTY, contact Youth Director Ferne Levy at [email protected]

FOLLOW SHAFTY:SHIR AMI | YOUTH GROUPS

Ferne Levy, Youth Director

SHAFTY IN DECEMBER

Sr. ShAFtY (9-12 grade)December 14 - General board meeting and Chanukah celebration

Jr. ShAFtY (7 & 8 grade)December 1-3, TON (Taste of NFTY- 6th-8th grade only)

Bonim (5 & 6 grade)December 13, Chanukah Hop

Chalutzim (3 & 4 grade)December 13, Chanukah Hop

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JANuARY WOMEN’S SeLF-DeFenSe WOrKSHOP

thursday, January 18, 2018 | 7:00pmCost: $20/per person (Snow Date: Thurs., Jan 25)

Self defense starts with understanding how predators think and how to identify a potentially dangerous situation, and only then move into how to react and self-protect. This is a reality-based, hands-on defense training and educational seminar.

Make checks payable to Shir Ami Early Learning Center, and let us know the names of the people you will be bringing.

REGISTER BY FRI, JAN 12 and GET A FREE PEPPER SPRAY!

ShIR AMI’s 20s / 30s GATHerinG

“Chanukah Chappy Hour”

thursday, December 14 | 7:00pmIsaac Newton’s | State Street, Newtown

Join other 20s and 30s, singles and couples, upstairs at Isaac Newton’s. Our 20s/30s chairs, Andrew and Stacy Rothman and Eric and Kristi Gases look forward to seeing you there! Contact Rabbi Simon with any questions or to join the Shir Ami 20s/30s Facebook Group.Save the Date – Friday, January 12th – Shir Ami 20s/30s Shabbat Dinner – watch for more information!

Shir Ami 20s/30s is open to everyone in their 20s and 30s, singles and couples, membersand non-members of Shir Ami.Please let your children or grandchildren know, and contact Rabbi Simon for more information.

Please join us for great Broadway shows and camaraderie. Open to all Shir Ami members, and your families and friends.

Our Shir Ami Theatre Club has some exciting shows planned on Broadway this winter and spring. December 3, 2017 is the musical “The Band’s Visit” with Tony Shaloub and Katrina Lenk. Then on December 17, 2017 we have tickets for the Steve Martin comedy “Meteor Shower” with Amy Schumer, Laura Benanti, and Keegan-Michael Key. They are both Sunday matinees. Sunday, April 8, 2018 has over 65 of us going to see “Dear Evan Hansen” and Sunday, June 10, 2018 is the Lincoln Center revival of “My Fair Lady.” All of these are sold-out (except a new group of “My Fair Lady” tickets). I keep a waiting list, so please contact me as often times someone has to cancel and I have tickets available for that show you want to see on Broadway! I am also looking into tickets for the revival of “Carousel” for early summer 2018.

Please remember that I am a volunteer, but I am happy to receive suggestions and to offer advice about shows that I have seen. Our “club” was formed over 21 years ago and I have chaired it always for camaraderie and for our Shir Ami family to bring their family and friends to enjoy great theatre. Love, Andee

Andrea Losben, Shir Ami Theatre Club [email protected]

theater Club

SHIR AMI | MORE HAPPENINGS

Would you like to support Israel?

Please attend the AIPAC Policy Conference from March 4, 2018 – March 6, 2018 in Washington D.C.

For more information contact: Steve Rosenberg at 215-348-0436, [email protected]

Alan Sheinberg at 215-497-9898, [email protected]

Or to register please follow: www.policyconference.org

Women of Shir ami

WoSA Chanukah Potluck DinnerWedmesday, December 6 | 7:00pm | Shalom Hall

Light the Candles and Support our Food Pantry! Bring a dairy dish and a

bottle of cooking oil to donate to the food pantry. It will be a fun evening

and there will be a few surprises that should make you smile!

Signup Genius for the potluck will follow.

Any questions, contact: Nancy Axler,

[email protected]

____________________

Woods Services Chanukah PartySunday, December 17 | 1:00pm | Woods Services, Langhorne

To volunteer, contact: Debbie Shain, [email protected]_______________________________________________________

A SPECIAL thANK YOU tO: Diane Dienstman for organizing our lovely Membership Dinner

Faith Bowers for picking the delicious wines for the dinner

Ilene Kniaz and her volunteers for organizing the Chanukah Bazaar -an extraordinary shopping experience!

For more info about ongoing activities contact:

Shelley Pulaski-Fisher: [email protected] for Gentle Yoga

Joy Kauffman: [email protected] for Daytime Mah Jongg

Faith Bowers: [email protected] for the Evening Book Club

Margie Kopkins: [email protected] for the Daytime Book Club

_______________________________________________________

by President, Mike Markowitz

I was thinking about what to write about this month, trying to be witty and creative - and unfortunately my brain was not cooperating. I am going to blame it on the cold – and not trying to get this done by Jodi’s deadline. We had two great programs so far this year. We had our Steak and Bourbon program that turned out to be a great deal of fun. You learn a lot about people as they drink turpentine…I mean bourbon. And I learned something about myself- boy, I did not like bourbon. Others really liked our assortment of spirits and our friends from Maker’s Mark left us all the samples. The Cantor made out in this deal. Next year, we will have it again, although we may do frozen drinks and steaks because everyone likes frozen drinks. So if you missed this event, there will definitely be another next year. I promise!

Our second program was also very successful - breakfast with guest speaker and sports columnist Marcus Hayes. He spent almost 90 minutes with us sharing his thoughts and stories. My thanks to Stan Cohen for putting this together and for hooking us up with the Inquirer for future speakers.

We also tried some new events that had the beginnings of some new traditions. We hosted an Eagles-Watch party at my house (no I did not get my TV - It will be in for the Eagles Playoff party) and we had a Men’s Club Man Cave at the Chanukah Bazaar. Both programs will be back.

We are having John Runyan as our Paid-Up Membership Speaker on December 7. We get the best of both worlds - sports and politics. John is a former Eagle, a former Senator and currently is working for the NFL.

As we roll into 2018 we will have a Trivia night, additional speaker brunches, a hypnotist, and much much more. All that is needed is you! Come on out and enjoy the programs. Here is our schedule:

12/7/17 - Paid-Up Membership DInner 1/17/18 - Beer tasting

2/10/18 - trivia Night 3/18/18 - Brunch

Men’s Club of Shir ami

AUXILIARY INFORMATION SHIRON | December 2017

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CHANUKAHON tHe DeLaWaRetuesday, Decemer 19, 2017 | 6:30pm

Come celebrate with your entire Jewish community at the edge of the New Hope-Lambertville Free Bridge (across the street from Starbucks). There will be a candle-lighting, singing, refreshments, as well as gelt and dreidels for the children.

OPeN tO aLL IN tHe COMMUNItYSupported by: Bucks County Rabbinic Council, Bucks County Synagogues, and Hadassah

third Annual

WHAT IS CIRCLE OF GIVING?Circle of Giving ensures that everyone can be a member of Shir Ami, regardless of financial means. Our annual campaign assists all elements of the congregation, including youth, education, security, and programming for all our members, from youth to seniors. Contributions at all levels are greatly appreciated.

Thanks to our 2017-2018 Challenge givers, Linda and Ted Liebman and Myrna and Steve Pressman, we have a head start to meeting (and hopefully beating) our $108,000 goal, but we hope you will step up to their challenge and make an investment in Shir Ami, our beloved Jewish home.

Name: ___________________________________________________

Phone: ___________________________________________________

E-Mail ___________________________________________________

❑ Enclosed is my check (payable to “Shir Ami”)

❑ Please bill my account

❑ $7,200 – Tzedek (Righteousness)

❑ $5,400 – Chesed (Kindness)

❑ $3,600 – Ahava (Love)

❑ $2,500 – Chaver (Friend)

❑ $1,800 – Simcha (Joy)

❑ $1,000 – Kavod (Honor)

❑ $720 – Shalom (Peace)

❑ $360 – Beracha (Blessing)

❑ $180 – Chai (Life)

______ (other amount)

____ I would like to contribute to the Circle of Giving:

Please make checks payable to Shir Ami and mail to: 101 Richboro Road, Newtown, PA 18940

____ As a member in good standing of Shir Ami, YES, I would like to be a

member of Circle of Giving for the fiscal year July, 2017 through June, 2018.

I pledge, in addition to my full synagogue dues, the following:

SHIR AMI’S CIRCLE OF GIVINGthank You to Our 2018

CIRCLE OF GIVING CHALLENGE GIVERS

($18,000)Linda and ted Liebman | Myrna and Steve Pressman

tzedek (righteousness) -------Chesed (Kindness)Sharon and Jack BenoffMeri and Jon Stevens Ahava (Love)Peter Coe Chaver (Friend)Johanna and Joseph DiMedio Janet and Morris Kaplan Rabbi Joel and Jacent Simon Simcha (Joy)Marcia and Ron AbrahamDonna and Bob DeSantis Pamela and Bruce Dick Stephanie and Alan KravatzMarlene and Marvin LasterJoshua McCoyGeorgann and Steve SemblerLindye and Steven Shechtman Kavod (honor)Abby and Scott Applebaum Kerry and Richard Domsky Rabbi Paula and Harvey Goldberg Judy and Barry Kroll Wendy and Daniel Lebovic Barbara and Michael MarkowitzMarilyn and Alan SheinbergDebbie and Scott Stevens

Shalom (Peace)Randi and Brett CohenJessica and Michael GoodmanFerne and Scott Levy Ivy and Larry PearlsteinEllie and Ed Short Beracha (Blessing)Anonymous Stacey and Jeff Cohen Dara and Neil DayenCantor Mark and Barbara Elson

Nancy and Scott Erman Rabbi Eric Goldberg and Rabbi Geri Newburge Susan and Allan GoodmanNancy and Michael GreenJoanna and Nate HolzmanLinda and Norman IdlebergRachel and Neil Lesser Becky MarkowitzPhil Nordlinger Harriet and Jerry PaleyEllen and George Rifkin Betsy and Eliot RosenfieldDebbie and David RosenthalDorothy SilvermanMeryl Reis and Bill SpitzCorinne and Cliff Strauss Chai (Life)Sheila and David AuslanderDale and Steven Berkley Marcia and Jeffrey Berman Susan and Ken BieberSusan Cohen and Barry Bloom Judi Buch Sybil CooperFlora and Robert DayDiane and Adam Dienstman Natalie DonnLynn and Richard FiorelliJodi and Scott Friedman Diana and Hal GeverBeverly and Mark Goldberg Marilyn and Sheldon HalpernPaula and Arthur KraussJanis and Howard Kritzer Allen LeboffAllison and Scott Leff Randi and Todd LeonDawn and Alan Levine Rochelle and Michael Newman Lorrie and David RiggsDebbie and Steve Rosenberg Susan and George Rosenberg

2016-2017 Circle of Giving Challenge Givers Mindy and David Chesner, Margie and Mark Kopins, Debbie and Scott Stevens

14

Keepers of Jewish excellenceShir Ami is pleased to present our ongoing Keepers of Jewish Excellence program, allowing all members the opportunity to study throughout the year. Please consider becoming a “Keeper” here at Shir Ami. Your donation in turn supports all of the important mitzvot of learning and prayer that we share, and what’s more, allows us to continue our Lifelong Learning commitments.

Your support makes a big difference in bringing education to our Shir Ami adults. Please consider becoming a “keeper” this year.

thANK YOU tO OUr 2017-2018 “KEEPErS”Ronald and Marcia Abraham

Ken and Susan BieberJudi Buch

Donna and Bob DeSantisMarilyn EisenthalBecky Markowitz

Anna and Allen Schwar tzDorothy Silverman

BECOME A KEEPER OF JEWISH ExCELLENCE

I’d like to support Lifelong Learning at the following level:

❑$500 ❑$250 ❑$180 ❑$100 ❑Other

Name: _________________________________________________________

Phone: _________________________________________________________

E-Mail _________________________________________________________

❑ Enclosed is my check (payable to “Shir Ami”)

❑ Please bill my account

Please make checks payable to Shir Ami and mail to 101 Richboro Road, Newtown, PA 18940

All “KEEPERS” will be recognized in the Shiron for their participation and generosity throughout the year.

there are numerous ways to give a boost to your beloved Shir Ami community. As we approach the end of the calendar year, many people take advantage of some of these options to take tax deductions and avoid capital gains taxes.

If you’re unaware, you can donate appreciated stock, bonds or mutual fund shares to Shir Ami and take a tax deduction for the full fair market value (as long as you have owned them for over 1 year). We can accept your donation of most liquid securities. We advise you to check with your tax advisor to see if this strategy is right for you.

to discuss how you can make a difference in Shir Ami’s future, please contact Phil Nordlinger, [email protected].

an Invitation to Invest in Shir ami’s Future

JOB PLACEMENt hELP

Searching for a job is never easy. For 76 years, JEVS Career Strategies has provided a guided approach to career change for those in all stages of career transition. We help individuals of all ages find meaningful, satisfying employment through tools and processes to unlock and present their own skills, abilities and interests. In addition, we have many employer connections and can assist with job placement for qualified jobseekers. As a non-profit organization, our services are either free or on a sliding fee scale, depending on income. We offer a confidential one-on-one setting, with in-person or online appointments available. Be confident in our professional services and schedule your first appointment for FREE for new clients only. Two locations: Northeast Philadelphia and Center City; SKYPE is also an option. Please check out our website at jevshumanservices.org/careerstrategies or call Wendy Rosenfeldt at 215-832-0878.


15

16

hELP ShIr AMI, WhILE YOU ShOP. Purchase supermarket cards from Shir Ami at face value, and we make a 5% profit from the store. Help raise money just by shopping. We stock the cards in the office - it’s easy and really makes a big difference!

Acme, McCaffrey’s, Shoprite, Giant, redners

• CallorstopintoShirAmitoorderthe cards you need

• Spenditlikeagiftcardwhenyoubuy groceries

• 5%ofyourpurchasesdirectlybenefit Shir Ami

More info: [email protected] today to get started! 215.968.3400

SUPeRMaRKet GIFt CaRDS

DISCOUNt RetaIL CaRDS

Look for the new Shir Ami Savings Card coming this fall! This popular card is accepted at many local retailers, including:

It’s the perfect way to save throughout the year and help raise a little money for Shir Ami at the same time. (Available through the Shir Ami and ELC offices).

$20EACH

ONLY

•PartyFair•DolceCarini•GoldenChina•RedBerry•Applebees•Ben&Irv’s•Saladworks

•ManhattanBagel•Moish&Itzy’s•GoBananas•Marco’sPizza•CornerBakery•TheFancyFig•ArirangHibachi

•LearningExpress•RichboroCarWash•DragonofNewtown•Rita’sWaterIce•TheHanger

FUNDRAISING AND SOCIAL ACTION MITZVOT

ChAI MiTZVAH

January 12, 2018 | Shabbat Services2018 Social Action Collection Project Information

Shir Ami’s Chai Mitzvah group would like to invite you to join us at Shabbat services on January 12, 2018. Chai Mitzvah was created as a way to engage adults in a Jewish journey throughout their lives. Chai Mitzvah encourages adults to take some time to reflect on where they are Jewishly and what they would like to achieve. We have been meeting as a group for almost a year and would like to share our experience with you at this January Shabbat service.

Our group has chosen a social action project. We are collecting unused travel size, sample size, or hotel souvenir size toiletries such as shampoos, conditioners, soaps, hand lotions, etc. to donate to a homeless shelter, A Woman’s Place, where they can very much use these products. We encourage you to clear out your sundries shelves and see what you might like to donate. Please bring what you have collected to services on January 12. We will have a bin ready for the collection and will see that these products go to a home where they will be appreciated.

We hope to see you on January 12 at services!

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS

rELIGIOUS SChOOL

vEtErAN’S ShABBAt

rELIGIOUS SChOOL

Shir Ami is Always Full of Life!

17

IN OUR COMMUNITY SHIRON | December 2017

ShAFtY At thE WAX MUSEUM IN NYC

ShAFtY BOArDrEtrEAt

tOt ShABBAt WIth YOYO

tOt ShABBAt WIth YOYO

9th GrADE At thE SOUP KItChEN MEN’S CLUB BrUNCh

9th GrADE At thE SOUP KItChEN rELIGIOUS SChOOL

On the anniversaries of remembering, a Jew remembers not only by feeling, but by doing. Kindling a yahrzeit candle the evening before is one thing we do; the Kaddish spoken at a gathering of our people is another. All names will be read on the Friday evening before the yahrzeit. One way to honor your loved one is with a living memorial such as a contribution to one of our Temple funds in their memory.

TO BE READ DECEMBEr 1 December 2 Samuel Abramson Harry Cherson Donald Cohen Anna Gever Minnie Miller Blanche Nissim December 3 Eleanor Caplin Lorraine Paul Ruth Rosenberg Gerald Thomas

December 4 Lee Baronoff Martin Baronoff Richard Goodman Anna Hyman Alfred Jones Nathan Kranberg Edward Levitt Barry Richmond Jean Zaretzky

December 5 Beatrice Badner David Samuel Bernstein Terri Brody Anna Charles Irv Krum Ada Michel Tamara Mitlyansky Miriam Pressman Reba Trotman

December 6 Lilo Bieber December 7 Pauline Block Sandra Borochaner Norman Harry Cherkin Helen Cohen Harris Epstein Melenda Goldberg Robert Rosenfeld

December 8 Ruth Collinge Alice Galey Rachel Maleh Jean McCoy Marni Schwartz Mark Shuchat

TO BE READ DECEMBEr 8

December 9 Louis Green Harold Lefcourt Cecile LeShay Richard Riggs Sarah Silverman Leah Silverman Rose Stein Thelma Weston Itzik Zaydenberg December 10 Samuel Feldman Alexander Feldstein Chana Huscher Natalia Katz Sybil Pall

December 11 Morton Schwartz Martin Snyderman Harold Weissman

December 12 Emily Birnbaum Sylvia Coslen Rae Krakowitz Anna Krauss E. Robert Obus

December 14 Pinkus Chodosh Michael Friedman Shirley Goldstein Stephen Losben

December 15 Ida Allal David Averbach Estelle Chodosh Martin Rossman Jerry Swierczynski


December 16 Alan Benner Samuel Berger Frank Hyman Jami Rodriguez Marjorie Shavel Diane Wulfsohn

December 17 Jeannette Lipson Stephen Young

December 18 Florence Eirenberg Madeline Frank Gussie Friedman David Getz Irving Levine Ruth Tankin

December 19 Sadie Cutler Emma Ross

December 20 Lena Gilman Anna Levin Rosalyn Schonzeit Anna Sobel Shirley Steinberg

December 21 Elias Dubrowin Richard Evans December 22 Morton Cohen Benjamin Klein

Isador Nessel Lewis Rossman Sandra Rubin


December 23 Sylvia Bienstock Stanley Cherson Lawrence Freedman David Katz Eleanor Shander December 24 Helen Bolden Harry Brooks Neil Feldstein Aaron Hart

December 25 Violet Goldstein Gertrude Jonas Alan Kovnot Brian Lipkin Rhoda Small December 26 Simmy Ginsberg Ira Goldner

December 27 Stanley Berg Ted Cooper Esse Dubrowin Evelyn Miller Herman Weiss December 28 Jay DoroshowBruce Kliman Elizabeth Schwartz Esther Silverzweig Carol Wolf

December 29 Jacquelyn Benner Harry Ginsberg

Pearl Grodin Celia Heimerling Joseph Marchello Mimi Segal


December 30 Ann Bowers Miriam S. Eisenthal Jeanette Greenberg Betty Heller Wiliam Morris Daniel Rosenthal

December 31 Bernard Cohen Samuel Izes Mark Jeffrey Lewis Leah Shapiro January 1 Sidney Doroshow Robert McGarry Robert Palm Selma Sosky January 2 Stuart Berman Jacques Marini January 3 Cecelia Feldman Sarah Green January 4 Louis Applebaum Ann Freedman Wilbur Greenfield Shirley Slomovitz Evelyn Zlotnick January 5 Elliot Bloom Linda Rosenthal Nathan Shipon

YAhrZEIt LIGht CErEMONIALThe family gathers at dusk, before the evening meal, on the eve of the anniversary of the death of the departed. The head of the family speaks: At this moment which bears the memory of our beloved (name), let us join hands in a token of God’s grace. A link has been broken in the chain of affection which has long bound us together, yet the blessed bonds of home and love remain. With prayerful heart, we receive this divine gift of life which holds us together in family unison.

Eternal God, we thank You that, in this time of sadness and loss, You have helped to keep us strong. Though the pain of our loss is still present for us, we know that love will always be stronger than death. And so, to You, we lift our hearts, because we know that our loved one continues to be a living presence in our lives. We acknowledge your mercy, O God, who strengthens us with faith and peace. As our loved one lives for us in these words and memories, we kindle this yahrzeit light and sanctify it in the remembrance of the Divine Word: The spirit of humanity is the light of the Lord. (Kindle the Memorial Light.) ZECHER TZADIK LIV-RACHA. May the memory of the righteous be an eternal blessing.

NOVEMBER | YAHRZEITS

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MONTHLY DONATIONS

ANNA GEVER MUSIC FUND

BEVERLY SPIEGLER SPEC. EDUCATION LIBRARY FUND

BOBBI SLUTZSKY ELC SCHOLARSHIP FUND from Adina and Michael Pliskin to Pam Fienberg IMO Mark Feinberg from Adina and Michael Pliskin to Earl Rochwarg IMO William Campbell from Elaine Shubin to Susan Wolbransky IMO Beth Alper

BOB MCGARRY ADULT EDUCATION FUND

BRUCE BIRNBAUM TIKKUN OLAM FUND

CLAIRE AND JERRY MILLER CAPITAL FUND

CANTOR MARK ELSON’S DISCRETIONARY FUND from Andee Losben IMO Steve Losben from Phyllis Doroshow to Karin Surkin IMO Leonard Shapiro

CIRCLE OF GIVING from Sharon and Jack Benoff to Rick Siderits IHO a full recovery from the Erman Family to The Green Family IHO Abby and Matt B’nai Mitzvah from Roberta and Jerry Miller IMO Carrie Somerstein from Marilyn Eisenthal from Julie and Gary Hershgordon from Shari Beck-Nahman and Jack Nahman from Judy and David Friedman from Marilyn Halpern IMO Richard Zallen from Richard and Shari Goldfarb to Joshua McCoy IMO Kevin McCoy from Dr. Goldfarbs Office to Joshua McCoy IMO Kevin McCoy from Shelley Lynde to Joshua McCoy IMO Kevin McCoy from Donna and Bob DeSantis to Joshua McCoy IMO Kevin McCoy from Ellen and George Rifkin to Leonard Bein Beverwyck IHO his birthday from Deena and Matthew Weissman to Mindi Klein IMO uncle from Marian Weintraub to the family of Sara Sealtiel IMO Sara Sealtiel

FOOD PANTRY from Nancy and Rick Siderits to Karin Surkin IMO Leonard Shapiro

ISRAEL CAMP SCHOLARSHIP FUND from Marilyn Eisenthal IMO Edward I. Fischman from Marilyn Eisenthal IMO Abraham Vineberg from Marilyn Eisenthal IMO Manual Vineberg from Marilyn Eisenthal IMO Stephen Eisenthal from Marilyn Eisenthal IMO Marcus Laster from Debbie and Larry Schorr IMO Al and Andy Gibb from Shirley Silverman to Sylvia Shain IMO Ira Shain from Debbie and Jon Shain to Howard Kritzer IMO Muriel Kritzer

ISRAEL TIYUL FUND

KAY SWERDLOW BUILDING FUND

KAYTES FAMILY GRATZ SCHOLARSHIP

MEN’S CLUB YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP FUND from Paula and Arthur Krauss to Karin Surkin IMO Leonard Shapiro

PRAYERBOOK DONATIONS

PRESSMAN LIBRARY FUND from Andrea Losben IMO Stephen Losben from Andrea Losben to Michael Kingston IHO Beth and Fred’s Wedding from Jean Simmons Scupari IMO Hyman Simcovitch from Jean Simmons Scupari IMO Michael Scupari from Andrea Losben IMO Samuel Finkelstein

RABBI ERIC GOLDBERG’S DISCRETIONARY FUND from Evelyn Cohen IMO Marvin Cohen

RABBI PAULA GOLDBERG’S HONORARY CHEVRAT TORAH FUND from Bob Fishback IMO David B. Fishback

RABBI ELLIOT STROM’S DISCRETIONARY FUND from Roberta and Gerald Miller IMO Morris A. Miller

RABBI JOEL SIMON’S DISCRETIONARY FUND from Lenore Weissberg IMO Rebecca Lazarus from Andrea Losben IMO Stephen Losben

SENIOR ENDOWMENT

SHARING IS CARING FUND from Ann Pollock IMO Richard S. Pollock from Natalie Donn IMO Arnold Orleans from Anita Rubin IMO Lucille Kushner

SIMCHA

SLOMOVITZ/ HUDESSCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE FUND from Harold Gever to Linda Drogin IMO her father

STAN AVERBACH BIBLICAL GARDEN FUND from Judy and Norton Borochaner IMO Fannie Hoffman from Judy and Norton Borochaner IMO Herman Borochaner from Judy and Norton Borochaner IMO Irv Borochanerfrom Debbie and Larry Schorr IMO Gerald M. Geiger from Debbie and Larry Schorr IMO Jerry Schorr from Fran Jonas to Karin Surkin IMO Leonard Shapiro

TEMPLE SHALOM SISTERHOOD CHILDREN’S FUNDfrom Iris Frank IMO Hannah Levine and Sheldon Levine from Rochelle Gould IMO William Olinsky from Rochelle Gould IMO Bertha Jacobs


19

thE FOLLOWING FUNDS ArE AvAILABLE: ($18 minimum please, unless noted)

___ Circle of Giving: Sustains programs and membership for all, regardless of ability to pay.

___ anna Gever Music: Interest on your donation supports our annual Gever Music Shabbat with extraordinary guest musical leaders.

___ Beverly Spiegler Special education Library Collection Fund: Supports the purchase of special education materials for our Pressman Library.

___ Bobbi Slutzky early Learning Center Scholarship: Provides need-based scholarships for ELC tuition.

___ Bob McGarry adult education: Provides books and other materials to support our Lifelong Learning programs.

___ Bruce Birnbaum tikkun Olam: Supports community service projects.

___ Claire & Jerry Miller Capital Fund: For capital improvements to our building and grounds.

___ Israel/Camp Scholarship: Provides financial assistance for our children and teens to attend URJ-affiliated camps and NFTY programs in Israel.

___ Israel tiyul: Defrays the cost of the Israel Trip for our 8th and 9th grade students so they can embrace the importance of supporting Israel.

___ Kay Swerdlow Building endowment: The interest is used for structural maintenance to our building and grounds.

___ Kaytes Family Gratz Scholarship: Provides need-based scholarships to enable our high school students to attend Gratz JCHS programs.

___ Pressman Library: Purchases books and journals to maintain and enhance our library.

___ Men’s Club Youth Scholarship: supports SHAFTY, youth programming and youth scholarships.

___ Oneg Shabbat Sponsorship: $54 per date (please provide the name of the person you would like to honor or in memory of)

___ Prayer Book Donation: Provides for the purchase and maintenance of prayer books for the synagogue (minimum donation $54).

___ Rabbi Paula Goldberg Honorary Chevrat torah Fund - supplements our Saturday morning Chevrat Torah service, including food, books, tallitot, and special speakers

___ Senior endowment: Supports the maintenance of our building.

___ Sharing is Caring: Provides emergency funds for individuals with crisis need for housing, food or payment of utilities.

___ SIMCHa: Supports Judaic programming for individuals with special needs.

___ Slomovitz/Hudes Scholar-in-Residence Fund: Supports our annual Scholar in Residence programs and weekends.

___ Stan averbach Biblical Garden: To maintain and enhance our beautiful outdoor Biblical Garden.

___ temple Shalom Sisterhood Children’s Fund: For programs, materials or initiatives for our children that is not included in our budget.

___ torah Commentary Donation: Provides for the purchase and maintenance of Torah commentaries for the synagogue (minimum donation $72).

Clergy Discretionary Funds:

______Rabbi Joel Simon’s Discretionary Fund: This fund allows Rabbi Simon, at his discretion, to provide emergency assistance/scholarships to congregants and others in need, supplement congregational programs in need of additional funding, and to support local, national, and international non-profit organizations.

______Cantor Mark elson’s Discretionary Fund: Used to assist needy individuals, as well as to support community causes or worthy institutions at the discretion of the Cantor. In addition, the Fund is used for educational and musical activities at Shir Ami.

______Rabbi eric Goldberg’s Discretionary Fund: Utilized by the Rabbi to assist those in need, for programming not covered by our budget or for Tikkun Olam. All expenditures are at his discretion.

______Rabbi emeritus elliot Strom’s Discretionary Fund: Utilized by the Rabbi to assist those in need, for programming not covered by our budget or for Tikkun Olam. All expenditures are at his discretion.

Permanent honors/memorials: An order form will be mailed to you

______Brick/Paver: Engrave a brick with a permanent honor or memorial in our beautiful garden walkway. Brick - $180; Paver - $360.

______Leaf: Add a leaf to our Tree of Life to honor a person/event. Honor a B’nai Mitzvah, Confirmation, Wedding or a special family member. $200.

______Yahrzeit plaque: In our sanctuary or chapel; the perfect way to honor the memory of your loved one. Each year their name will be highlighted and their memory will be honored during Shabbat services. $400.

INFORMATION ABOUT OUR SHIR AMI FUNDS

Your donations in honor or memory of your friends and family help Shir Ami.Call the office at 215-968-3400 or donate through our website.

20

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS

Synagogue Member 21


OUR COMMUNITY

ADVERTISE IN SHIRON

Shir Ami supports our advertisers and thanksthem for their generosity throughout the year.your ad in SHIrON reaches almost 700 fami-liesandfriendsoftheShirAmicommunity,andhelpstosupportoursynagogue.

Fullpage,halfpageandbusinesscardadop-portunitiesareavailabletorunforthefullyearofissues,orjustaportionasyouprefer.

to learn more about advertising in SHIrON,pleasecalltheShirAmiofficeat215.968.3400.

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(800) 949-2667

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SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS

Arcade Archery Arts & Crafts Basketball Beach Volleyball BMX Bikes Boating Ceramics

Drama/ Dance Fishing Ga-Ga Gymnastics Hockey Kangaroo Jumper Kayaking

FUN IN THE SUN!

1380 Creek Road Furlong, PA 18925

215.598.7143

For boys and girls age 3-15 Lunch and snacks provided

Well-rounded camp experiences for kids since 1986

Door to door transportation ACA Accredited

Rental facilities available for picnics and weekends

Owned and Operated by a Shir Ami family

Lacrosse Miniature

Golf Nature

Newcomb Rockwall/

Zip Line

Soccer (In & Outdoor)

Softball Swimming

(3 Pools) Tennis

Wiffle Ball Yoga

briarwooddaycamp.com

[email protected]

... & so much more!

CLErGYRabbi Joel Simon – [email protected] Mark Elson – [email protected] Emeritus Elliot M. Strom – [email protected]

rabbinic ScholarRabbi Paula Goldberg – [email protected]

PresidentSharon Benoff - [email protected]

Director of OperationsPhil Nordlinger - [email protected]

Director of EducationRabbi Eric Goldberg – [email protected]

Executive Assistant to the ClergyJulie Hershgordon - [email protected]

Membership CoordinatorJodi Friedman - [email protected]

ShAFtY (Youth Groups)Ferne Levy – [email protected]

E.L.C. DirectorShari Beck-Nahman - [email protected]

Asst. ELC DirectorJudy Friedman – [email protected]

For general Info: [email protected]

NFtY websiteNFTY.org/par

Women of reform Judaism www.wrj.org

Union of reform Judaism www.URJ.org

BOArD OF DIrECtOrSPresident Sharon K. Benoff

Vice President Debbie Rosenthal

Vice President Jessica Goodman

Secretary Ellie Short

Treasurer Faith Bowers

Immediate Past President Joshua McCoy

Mindy Chesner Donna DeSantis

Jeffrey Eder Nancy Green

Joanna Holzman Stephanie Kravatz

Steven Pressman Jon Stevens

Corinne Strauss

CLErGY AND ADMINIStrAtION

Rabbi Joel SimonCantor Mark ElsonRabbi Emeritus Elliot M. StromRabbinic Scholar Paula GoldbergDirector of Operations Phil NordlingerDirector of Education Rabbi Eric GoldbergE.L.C. Director Shari Beck-NahmanYouth Director Ferne Levy

AUXILIArY PrESIDENtS Men’s Club Michael MarkowitzWomen of Shir Ami Debbie WeinsteinSHAFTY Joey Axler

NOMINatIONS FOR tHe BOaRD OF DIReCtORS

It’s a mitzvah to devote your time to the Shir Ami mission. If you are

interested in serving on the Shir Ami Board of Directors, please contact

Joshua Mccoy at [email protected].

* (z’l) zichrono livracha “of blessed memory”

PASt PrESIDENtSRonald AbrahamHarvey AbramsonIrving Altman TS (z’l)Ken BieberFred BockDanny BrownFilbert Cherry (z’l)Phyllis DoroshowRuth FivesHarvey GoldbergSheldon Gould TS (z’l)Janis JacobsBob Kasman (z’l)Robert KatzensteinArthur KraussHarold Lefcourt TS (z’l)

Larry Lefkowitz TSNorman Leibowitz TSBecky MarkowitzJoshua McCoyAndrea Miller TSJerome Miller TS (z’l)Mo Perera Stephen RodosAlan Rosenberg TSAlan SheinbergNancy Siderits Teri SiegelRonald SmolowNathan Snyder TSLeonard Sokolove TS (z’l)Dena Stein TS (z’l)Debbie Stevens

OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS

CONTACT US Main: 215.968.3400 | Religious School: 215.968.3254 | E.L.C.: 215.968.6255


23

101 Richboro Road | Newtown, PA 18940

hELP SUPPOrt

OUr ShIrONWe are excited that the Shiron will continue to be mailed to almost 700 homes. You can help ensure a regular mailing by supporting the advertisers each issue, or even taking an ad out for your own business.

For more information contact Phil: [email protected]

ADvErtISE IN thE ShIrON For rates, ad sizes and other info call: 215.968.3400

JOIN US FOR a FUN SOCIaL eveNt!

Shir Ami is an active community – there’s always so much going on here! Inside this issue of SHIRON you’ll find Shir Ami news, updates from our Directors, and lots of info about our upcoming events throughout the Shir Ami community. Keep it on hand --

the Shiron is a great resource for everything that’s going on in the month of December and beyond.

IS YOUr BUBBE’S BrISKEt rECIPE thE BESt EvEr?

tIME tO PrOvE It! BE thE FIrSt ShIr AMI BrISKEt StAr!

Cost: Free for you and your family if you’re one of the chefs to register to bring a brisket.

Guests: $12 for adults, $8 for children 12 and under, free for children under 5. Everyone welcome, 4-7 PM, Shalom Hall. This event is BYOB.

Soft drinks and sides will be provided. Please contribute a NON-DAIRY dessert. To register to enter a brisket, email Risa Kane: [email protected]

SUNDAY, JANUArY 7

FIRST-EVER SHIR AMI BRISKET

COOK-OFF

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