rabbi hillel skolnik’s message · 2012-11-30 · december 2012 / 17 kislev – 18 teves 5773 page...

DECEMBER 2012 / 17 KISLEV – 18 TEVES 5773

SOJC NEWSLETTER - 11200 South Apopka Vineland Rd. Orlando, Florida 32836407-239--5444 • www.sojc.org

RABBI HILLEL SKOLNIK’S MESSAGEDear SOJC,Just a bit more than two weeks ago, we began the Hebrew month of

Kislev and along with it a time that is supposed to be filled with joy. It is beginning on the 25th day of Kislev that we celebrate Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, commemorating the miraculous military victory of the Maccabees over the Greeks and the one jug of oil that managed to keep the menorah lit for eight days. We celebrate in a public way by lighting the Hanukkiyah, the special Hanukkah candelabra, and place it next to the windows of our homes so as to publicize the miracle. Of course we do so this year with a different feel in our heart, having been reminded once again that Jews around the world, most specifically in Israel, continue to fight some of the same battles our people have been fighting for thousands of years.

But, as I often say, if we fail to celebrate our happy times and let our joy in these precious moments be diminished, then the other side has already won. So let us make sure that we take full advantage of the many opportunities we have to be together this month to celebrate, to shop, to do acts of loving kindness, to eat and to pray. Here are just a few suggestions, though this is not an exhaustive list of all the wonderful activities taking place through SOJC this month.

If you’re into shopping, I suggest that you come to the Holiday Boutique on Sunday December 2nd from 11 AM – 2:30 PM. We’ll be selling wonderful gifts for people of all ages including great Hanukkah items that are being shipped in from Queens, NY. And while you’re shopping I hope you’ll come to the SOJC Talent show which is at 12:15 that same day. Lunch will be available for purchase for anyone interested.

Our actual Hanukkah events span the entirety of the holiday, from the first day to the last. On Sunday, December 9th the Sisterhood is celebrating in the morning during Hebrew School with Chalutzim celebrating afterward. Kadima/USY will have its Hanukkah gathering on Thursday evening, December 13th, with a regressive dinner, our tots have a special Hanukkah Tot Shabbat on Friday December 14th and our entire community will then have the chance to spend Hanukkah together that evening at our Family Friday Night dinner. On Shabbat morning, December 15th, a special Kiddush in being sponsored by SOJC in honor of all those who donated to this year’s Kol Nidrei appeal. And finally, on Sunday the 16th, the 8th day of Hanukkah, our Hebrew School will have its Hanukkah Universe celebration. All I can say is, “WOW!”

And in case all those Hanukkah festivities haven’t tired you out, the month comes to a close with our next SOJC

Shabbat/Holiday Services

Saturday, Dec. 1st, 9:30 a.m.

Friday, Dec. 7th, 7:30 p.m.Saturday, Dec. 8th, 9:30 a.m.

Friday, Dec. 14th, 7:30 p.m.Saturday, Dec. 15th, 9:30 a.m

Friday, Dec. 21st, 7:30 p.m.Saturday, Dec. 22nd, 9:30 a.m.

Friday, Dec. 28th, 7:30 p.m.Saturday, Dec. 29th, 9:30 a.m.

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SOJCDECEMBER 2012 / 17 KISLEV – 18 TEVES 5773


Mitzvah Day, on December 25th. We are partnering with the Coalition for the Homeless to collect items and raise money for the homeless in our community. There are boxes in our lobby where you can donate things like new men’s and women’s socks, new deodorant, new toiletries, new toys for young children and other items. Additionally, members of SOJC will have the chance to go to the Coalition for the Homeless on December 25th and serve hot meals. Space is limited so please rsvp to Brett Spector – [email protected] – to participate.

It is going to be a very busy month, but one that I hope is filled with happiness, joy, acts of loving kindness and peace for our Jewish brothers and sisters in Israel and around the world.

Chag Hanukkah Sameach! Have a wonderful Hanukkah!

Sincerely,Rabbi Hillel Skolnik

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QUESTIONDear Rabbi,How do we light Hanukkah Candles?

ANSWERThat’s a great question and very appropriate for this time of year. Here are the guidelines which I’ve copied from Conservative Movement’s “Luah Hashannah 5773; A guide to prayers, readings, laws and customs for the synagogue and for the home.”

“Setup for the Hanukkiyah:1. In the home, place the Hanukkiyah so that it is visible from the outside.2. Place the candles in the Hanukkiyah a. Start at the right end, placing candles from right to left. b. place one candle the first night, two the second, and so forth.3. Place the additional shammash into its distinct location.

Lighting and Blessings:1. Light the shammash first.2. Before lighting the other candles recite the blessings:Baruch Atah Adonai Eloheinu Melech Ha’olam Asher Kiddshanu B’mitzvotav V’tzivanu L’hadlik Ner Shel Hanukkah.Baruch Atah Adonai Eloheinu Melech Ha’olam She’asah Nisim La’avoteinu Bayamim Haheim Bazman Hazeh.On the first night add:Baruch Atah Adonai Eloheinu Melech Ha’olam Shehecheyanu Vkiymanu Vhigi’any Lazman Hazeh.3. Use the shammash to light the newest (leftmost) candle.4. Light the remaining candles, proceeding left to right.”

Submit it to the “ASK THE RABBI” column.IT JUST TAKES ONE CLICK.Each month the Rabbi will choose one or more to post into the newsletter.

ASK THE RABBI



I would like to extend Happy Hanukkah wishes to all our SOJC families. As we enter this holiday season, take a moment to reflect on how fortunate we are to live in a city that provides us the freedoms and safety that so many others throughout the world do not have. Thousands of years ago, the Jewish people, led by the Maccabees, fought for their religious freedom. Today in Israel, Jews continue to fight for their right not only to exist, but also to pray in a synagogue, eat kosher food, and adorn kippot and tallit. November 28, Wednesday at 7 PM, we gathered together with fellow Jews in Orlando at the JCC Maitland campus in solidarity to show our support to our brethren in Israel. Sunday, December 2, Sisterhood will host a Holiday Boutique at SOJC starting at 11 am. This is just the first of many planned Hanukkah celebrations for our SOJC families.

December 15th, the second to last day of Hanukkah, will be a chance for SOJC to thank all of those who have contributed to the Kol Nidrei Appeal. We DOUBLED our goal! This enabled us to pay for the new roof without having to incur further debt. Please join us during Shabbat services on December 15th so that the SOJC board, Rabbi Skolnik and Cantor Ramsay can extend our deepest appreciation and enjoy a Kiddush luncheon in your honor! If you have not made your Yom Kippur Appeal pledge, there is still time. Please contact the office or send in your donation as soon as possible.

Thank you for your generous support and contributions:

If a family name was inadvertently left off the list, please contact the office to rectify this mistake.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Michele Fischer - President SOJC

Bill and Doris Abramson Jose and Yeseima Alvarado Steve and Juli AronowLuis and Nora Beauchamp Larry and Roz Beltzer Marvin and Shelly Blatt Ronald and Yvonne Bleecker Ben Bolusky Mark Brivik Ed and Marion Bromberg Ted and Margie Brozanski Jack and Susan Colton Pablo and Julieta Davidovich Doug Ethridge & Eileen Krantz Howard and Rhonda Fair Michael and Rona Feldman Joseph and Paige Fennessey Jeff and Michele Fischer Scott and Teresa Fishman Scott and Susan Flower Mitch and Serena Frank Jules and Karen Gelade Ruth Gelfand & Martin Valeri Marc and Mindy Gerber David and Stephanie Glasser Gary Glassman

Tom and Debra Goodman Scott Gordon & Diane Zullow Jared and Vivian Gottesman Wendi & Clay Harris Carol Hauser Jason and Jennifer Jacobson Joe and Pamela Jamoom MarianKalman Amy Karr Peter and Bilinda Kaufman Buzz and Karen Klavans Jason and Virginia Kolin Gordon Kotzin Kurt and Paula Kotzin Jonathan and Lauren Laski William & Elizabeth Mack Eli Magen Mel and Judi Marsel Wendy Martinez Lynell Medel Stephen and Susan Meshover Morty MillerLee and Melanie Moore Steven and Susan Nathan Tom and Linda Nelson Harold and Milvia Oxer

Abby Pait Ken and Cynthia Posner Christopher and Rachel Proulx Evan and Bonnie Rayman Scott and Ellen RegenJeff Rosen Alan and Mary Roufa Dan and Margaret RubensteinYehoshua and Keyla Saenz Selma Shifter Sara SchlossmanJill Schwartz Yale and Lori Schwartz Adam and Sarah SiegelAlan and Kim Siegel Jeff and Risa Sikora Mark and Becky Silverstein Andy and Karin Snitz Richard and Frances Solomon Alfred and Shellie SpearBrett and Shira Spector Rich Waldor and Vivian Kerstein Charlotte WasserMichael and Cheryl Weiner Larry Wolfman Marion Wolfman



HURRICANE SANDYFrom the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism

Though Hurricane Sandy ended on Tuesday, it has left a trail of devastation along much of the East Coast. Millions of people remain without power; homes are underwater or destroyed; and tragically, many lives have been lost.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of those suffering continued hardship in the wake of this disaster, and our hearts go out to those who’ve lost loved ones.

As individuals and communities start to rebuild, people across North America are asking what they can do to help.We at United Synagogue have been reaching out to our kehillot to assess the extent of the damage, both to synagogue

buildings and the communities they serve, and we will continue to do so over the coming days and weeks. We have been coordinating this effort with our colleagues at the Rabbinical Assembly. If you are in the storm zone, please contact your Kehilla Relationship Manager. Let them know how you are doing. Contacts for all districts are here. You can also check in on the USCJ Facebook page at facebook.com/ UnitedSynagogueCJ

Already we’ve heard numerous reports of storm damage to synagogue buildings flooding and lost power are not uncommon -- but also of members and leaders making heroic efforts to keep their kehillot functioning and rush to the aid of those who need help. There continue to be inspiring acts of chesed and tzedakah on the part of so many of our kehillot.

On Long Island, where a million people are without power, Congregation Tifereth Israel invited the community to the cantor’s house for a barbeque; went door to door checking on elderly members; and is making plans this weekend for a “flashlight bar mitzvah.”

In Westchester County, also facing extensive power outages, Beth El Synagogue Center has invited people to “come in from the dark” for shmoozing, charging cell phones, minyan, and a pizza dinner. Across the region, kehillot not adversely affected are offering to host b’nai mitzvah celebrations and Shabbat services that would have been postponed or cancelled due to storm damage, while kehillot thousands of miles from the storm zone are collecting funds to help those in need.

This kind of outreach, in which we look beyond the walls of our buildings to care for those around us, is what transforms a congregation into a kehilla, a sacred community.

What You Can Do To HelpRight now, we encourage you to donate to the many reputable organizations collecting funds for disaster relief. You can

also donate to USCJ's disaster relief fund. If you’d like to speak to us about more ways you can help, please contact Jonathan Boiskin, our Chief Development Officer at [email protected].

Please bear in mind that the best way to be of help at this point in the recovery is to donate funds rather than physical goods.We pray that life soon returns to as close to normal as possible in the storm zone.

Resources• Donations - United Synagogue Disaster Relief Fund• Jewish Federations of North America Hurricane Sandy Relief Fund• Federal Disaster Assistance• m.fema.gov (for smartphones/mobile devices)• Volunteer through the Red Cross• Prayer: "A Prayer in the Aftermath of a Devastating Storm," Rabbi Menachem Creditor• "A Prayer in the Face of the Hurricane," Rabbi Samuel Barth• "A Kavannah After Hurricane Sandy", Rabbi Joshua Rabin



– Dates to RememberEVERY WEEK:Sat 12:30 p.m. “As the Torah Turns” Parshah discussion w/ Mary Roufa

MONTH’S EVENTS:Sat, Dec. 1 - 9:30 a.m. - Matthew and Erica Marsel B’nei MitzvahSun, Dec. 2 - 9:15 a.m. - Have Fun with Hebrew with Rich WaldorSun, Dec. 2- 9:30 a.m. - “Talkin” Torah in Tennis Shoes with Rabbi Sharon Barr SkolnikSun, Dec. 2- 12:15 p.m. - SOJC Talent ShowSun, Dec. 2 -11:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. - SOJC Holiday BoutiqueWed, Dec. 5 - 7:30 p.m. - Rabbi Hillel Skolnik’s Conversion ClassSat, Dec. 8 - 11:00 a.m. - Tot Shabbat with Rabbi Sharon Barr SkolnikSat. Dec. 8 - 1:30 p.m. - Shabbat BasketballSun, Dec. 9 - 9:30 a.m. - Sisterhood Hanukkah Party at the home of Michele Fischer Sun, Dec. 9 - 9:30 a.m. - Chalutzim Hanukkah PartyWed, Dec. 12 - 7:30 p.m. - Rabbi Hillel Skolnik’s Conversion ClassThurs, Dec. 13 – 5:30 p.m. - SOJUSY Regressive Hanukkah DinnerFri, Dec. 14 - 6 p.m. - Tot Shabbat with Rabbis Hillel and Sharon SkolnikFri, Dec. 14 - Hanukkah Family Friday prepaid DinnerWed, Dec. 19 - 7:30 p.m. - Rabbi Hillel Skolnik’s Conversion ClassTues, Dec. 25 - Mitzvah Day!

For more information, including the most up-to-date calendar, visit us at: www.sojc.org

Rabbi Skolnik will be teaching aConversion Class at SOJC.Class will meet Wednesday

evenings and begins October 17at 6:15 pm until mid-March.

If you or someoneyou know are interested,please get in touch with

Rabbi Skolnik for more details.

Israeli Dance Lessons Learn Israeli dances! Classes will be on Wednesdays at 7 pm at SOJC beginning Wednesday, January

9th. Please come out and join in the fun, the music, the camaraderie, and the movement! Contact Karen Gelade if you need more information at [email protected].

Rabbi Sharon Barr Skolnik’s “Talkin’ Torah inTennis Shoes:

Women’s Torah Study”completes the series this

Sunday morningDecember 2 at 9:30 am

Rich Waldor will be teaching“Have Fun with Hebrew”

beginning Hebrew December 2 at 9:15 am

SPONSORa Friday Night Oneg or Saturday Kiddush

for $36 to commemorate a momentous occasion,

BIRTHDAYS, ANNIVERSARIES, BIRTHS, GRADUATIONS, ETC.



– SOJC Knowledge College

Lifelong Learning Fall 2012 Schedule

“As the Torah Turns” with Mary RoufaSaturdays after Shabbat servicesMary Roufa leads a lively discussion of the parashah, the weekly Torah portion, Saturdays after Shabbat services.This is an opportunity to deepen your knowledge of the Hebrew Bible and to explore its meaning in a relaxed,conversational setting.

“Knosh and Knowledge” with Rabbi Hillel SkolnikSunday, November 4 & 13 and monthly thereafter – 9:15 AMJoin Rabbi Hillel for this once-a-month opportunity to discuss current events, learn about an upcoming Jewishholiday, and explore our tradition in an informal setting. Both Knosh and Knowledge will be provided.

“Have Fun with Hebrew” with Rich Waldor - Sunday, October 14, 28; November 4, 11;and December 2 – 9:15 AMRich Waldor makes understanding Hebrew fun by using familiar melodies like Adon Olam, Ein Keloheinu andAshrei as the gateway for analyzing, understanding and learning the Hebrew language. Course materials areprovided by the National Jewish Outreach Program.

“Time for Text” with Rabbi Hillel SkolnikTuesday, October 16, 23, 30 and November 6 and 13 – 7:30 PMJoin Rabbi Hillel as we spend five weeks exploring the book of Shoftim, the book of Judges. Together we’ll get toknow this sometimes overlooked book of the Hebrew Bible which is filled with dynamic leaders and excitingadventures.

“Talking Torah in Tennis Shoes: Women’s Torah Study” with Rabbi Sharon SkolnikSundays at 11 AM on Religious School days (October 7, 14, 28; November 4, 11; December 2)Women of SOJC areinvited to join Rabbi Sharon Barr Skolnik for a comfortable, casual conversation about Torah. We will focus on thevery gripping and controversial account of the Akeidah, the "Binding of Isaac", and learn in a layered approach,while both connecting with one another and asking and answering questions even the commentators couldn'timagine!

Conversion Class with Rabbi Hillel SkolnikWednesday, October 17 and weekly through mid-March 2013 – 7:30 PM This fall, SOJC will be offering aconversion class under the guidance of Rabbi Hillel Skolnik for those interested in converting to Judaism. Beginningon October 17, the class will meet every Wednesday evening through mid-March and learn about the foundationalbeliefs of Judaism, take a trip through the Hebrew Bible, explore our history, discover Jewish tradition and learn toread Hebrew. For more information contact Rabbi Skolnik directly by email – [email protected] - or by phone –407-239-5444.

For more information about SOJC’s “Knowledge College” programs, please contact:Southwest Orlando Jewish Congregation (SOJC), 11200 South Apopka Vineland Road, Orlando, FL 32836,Tel. (407) 239-5444, www.sojc.org



EDUCATION STATIONI hope everyone had a fulfilling Thanksgiving break with family, friends,

and the creation of pleasant family memories. We have a wonderful Hanukkah program planned for your students on Sunday, Dec. 16th (see calendar below), but it will require your student to be at school on time. The classes will be rotating through the classrooms between the two campuses and if they are late it will be hard to chase down your child’s class while it is in motion. Also, we could use help from parents to help with guiding students between the rooms and keeping them on schedule, as well as helping with the snacks. It will be busy and controlled chaos, but fun will be had by all!

Parents please remember to come into the rear of the Sanctuary to retrieve your students at the end of Religious School (both on Wed and Sunday) and leave the Sanctuary (with your child) by the side door of the Sanctuary. Teachers must maintain control of where your child is and who they are transferring responsibility to at the end of school. This is for your child’s safety and your peace of mind.

Please support the SOJC Family Talent Show by bringing the whole family. Kids love to show off, and they love to be wowed by adults and teens that show the artisan inside. All proceeds support the activities of the Cantorial Corps, our Jewish lay leaders of the future. We have plenty of acts and a few surprises. And variety is the spice of the show! Special surprises await the family audience!

Have a safe and fruitful winter break and I look forward to seeing you all NEXT YEAR! 2013

Remember that you can always download registration forms, volunteer forms, a School Calendar at a Glance page and view the most up-to-date Calendar at our website: www.sojc.org

Cantor Doug Ramsay

12/2/12 9:00am Religious School for Grades K-7 12:15pm SOJC TALENT SHOW with Lunch 12/5/12 5:30pm Religious School for Grades 3-712/8/12 11:00am TOT SHABBAT12/9/12 9:00am Religious School for Grades K-712/12/12 5:30pm Religious School for Grades 3-712/14/12 6:00pm TOT SHABBAT 6:30pm Hanukkah Family Friday Prepaid Dinner

12/16/12 9:00am Religious School for Grades K-7 HANUKKAH UNIVERSE!12/19/12 5:30pm Religious School for Grades 3-712/23/12 9:00am NO RELIGIOUS SCHOOL12/26/12 5:30pm NO RELIGIOUS SCHOOL 12/30/12 9:00am NO RELIGIOUS SCHOOL1/2/13 5:30pm NO RELIGIOUS SCHOOL 1/6/13 9:00am NO RELIGIOUS SCHOOL1/9/13 5:30pm Religious School for Grades 3-7

Here is our schedule



– Bar Mitzvah Profile

Matthew Marsel and Erica Marsel will be called to the Torah as B’nei Mitzvahon Saturday,December 1st, 2012

Matthew attends Bridgewater Middle School and is currently in 8th grade.

He is in band and plays clarinet as well as guitar and keyboard. Matthew

enjoys reading and recently completed the Hobbit, and Lord of the Rings

trilogy. In addition to reading Matthew likes puzzle games, cards and board

games. His favorite pastime is playing on the computer and hanging out with

his friends and family.

Erica also attends Bridgewater Middle School and is currently in 7th

grade. Erica is in band and plays trombone. Erica participates in Girls on

Track and has done so for the past 4 years. She has run five 5k races with her

father. Erica likes to sew and bake. She is also an avid TV watcher and likes

to watch competition reality shows. Erica’s favorite artists are Katy Perry and

Maroon 5.

All about Matthew Marsel

All about Erica Marsel



– Cantor Ramsay’s Notes

In November Cubby Rubenstein, Rebecca Lubin,

Grant Sikora, and Helena Cooper also led Shabbat

services with confidence and skill.

Calling all SOJC family members! Come to the

2nd Annual SOJC Talent Show (see dates below and on

www.sojc.org)! We had a wonderful show last year and all

the proceeds support Cantorial Corps activities. A pizza

lunch will be served before the show (included in ticket

pricing). There will be great talent, a couple of surprises,

and general family fun. See the Flyer in this Newsletter!

Am shalom v’shir,

Cantor Doug Ramsay

Cantorial Corps

Here’s our busy schedule:Sunday, Dec 2nd 12:15pm 2nd Annual SOJC Talent Show

Saturday, Dec 15th 9:30am Cantorial Corps Shabbat

Saturday, Dec 29th 9:30am Cantorial Corps Shabbat

This November Mel Marsel, and Jules Gelade both

chanted Haftarot beautifully. Mel Marsel, Wendy

Martinez, Mary Roufa, and Ed Bromberg also assisted in

leading services on Shabbat mornings.

These adult Laypeople are an inspiration to us all.

Some of them have honed their skills all their lives, but most have come to their mastery of these skills during

adulthood and continue to practice these skills in service to our synagogue. If you would like to learn, or

want to get on the list to read Torah, Haftarah or to lead a service, or if you just want more info, e-mail me at

[email protected]. It’s a mitzvah, it’s uplifting, and it’s a wonderful experience!

torah team

Saturday, Dec 15th 9:30am Torah Team Reads TorahSaturday, Dec 29th 9:30am Torah Team Reads Torah

donut forget to vote - Cantorial Meeting



December 2nd, 201212:15 – 2 pm

The SOJCFAMILY TALENT SHOW

Sponsored by the SOJC Cantorial Corps

Great fun and entertainment for the whole familyPerforming arts Talent from all ages

Come and discover the various talents hidden within your SOJC Family!

$7 Admission per person, $20 max per familyLunch is included (1 slice pizza, chips, soda-additional slices available for $1 each)

All proceeds go to support the activities of the Cantorial Corps



Hosted by

Southwest Orlando Jewish Congregation

Sunday, December 2, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.

11200 South Apopka Vineland Road,

Orlando, Florida 32836

Shop for the holidays and help our synagogue grow!

SOJC Talent Show*

Local Vendors & Artists

Exclusive Hanukkah goodies from Queens, NY

For more information contact: Michele Fischer 407-239-5444

Or [email protected]

*Talent show requires admission

Cash Encouraged, Checks Acceptable



– from the Heritage

SOJC Sponsors Eagle Scout’sHolocaust Memorial

The Southwest OrlandoJewish Congregation (SOJC) issponsoring a Holocaust Memorial to be constructed in their synagogue.This project is being led by EagleScout candidate Max Waldor and isdue to be constructed by YomHashoah of 2013. The project willbe a wall of tiles memorializing thestories of the victims and survivorsof the Holocaust.

Max Waldor is a Life Scoutwith Troop 996 in the Sand Lakedistrict and is an honors student atDr. Phillips High School. Thisproject is the culmination of years ofservice to his community both as ascout, a student ambassador for thePeople to People program, and acommunity volunteer to Give Kidsthe World and SOJC itself. Thisproject is his gift to the Orlandocommunity. Although there are other Holocaust memorials throughout Florida, there are none that represent this awful historical event in South Orlando.

The memorial will consist of288 photographic cork tiles at first,with potential for growth. Each tilewill represent a story with picturesand quotes that depict each story.There will also be a website wherethe stories in their entirety will beposted for access to the public. Thetiles will correspond to the stories onthe website and some will have aQR code to link to their story. Max

hopes for this project to become atype of legacy in which stories arecontinually added to the memorial.

“I am delighted that theSOJC board decided to support thisEagle project of a HolocaustMemorial for our community,” saidVivian Kerstein, Vice President ofSOJC. “It should be a beacon oflight for peace and tolerance, and alesson not turn away when facedwith injustices.”

Max is seeking supportfrom the nearby community. Thereare three ways that you cancontribute to this project. Max needsvolunteers to help in the design andconstruction of the project. He alsoneeds survivors and their families tocome forth with their stories tosubstantiate the content of thememorial. Finally, he needsmonetary contributions to facilitatethe construction of the project.

To help design this project,he needs people with access to acomputer with Photoshop andInDesign. Max will train thesevolunteers in how to prepare thestories to be printed during mid-December. Another way to help isby constructing the memorial. Heneeds people to drill holes in thecork tiles and to attach the tilestogether mid-March.

He also needs more storiesfrom survivors and their families.Any story will do as long as it isyours and it’s not under any sort ofcopyright. It is an opportunity toinclude your stories in a memorialthat will help to share them withmany generations to come. Thestories may be submitted nowthrough January 26, 2013.Visit:www.sojc.org/HolocaustMemorial.

If you would like to volunteer inany of the previous ways you cancontact Max through his email [email protected] orcall 407-342-6120.To contribute donations for theproject send them to:SOJC11200 Apopka Vineland Road,Orlando, FL 32836Checks can be made to SOJCwith the memo HolocaustMemorial.

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past for the future



Day Date Time Event - USY & Kadima (6th - 12th Grade)

Saturday November 10, 2012 9:30AM - 12:30 PM USY/Kadima/Chalutzim Shabbat Services

Friday-Sunday November 16-18 2012 Kadima Convention - Jacksonville, Florida

Thursday December 13, 2012 6:00PM - 8:00 PM Chanukah Dinner & gift exchange

Saturday January 19, 2013 Future Program will be provided

Sunday February 17, 2013 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Hanagev Region - Yom Disney

Sunday March 17, 2013 Future Program will be provided

Saturday April 13, 2013 SOJC Sleepover

Sunday May 5, 2013 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Tikkun Olam Car Wash & Pizza Party

Day Date Time Event - Chalutzim (K - 5th Grade)

Sunday November 4, 2012 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM Havdalah Box and Candle Making

Sunday December 2, 2012 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM Hanukkah Party

Please look for Periodic calendar updates from Holly Myerson & Brett SpectorPlease Friend us on SOJUSY & SOJC _ Southwest Orlando JewishCongregation for updates to Upcoming Events

– Youth Group Activities



SOJC Annual Mitzvah DaySOJC and the Coalition for the Homeless

December 25, 20128:00AM – 11:00AM

SOJC is partnering with the Coalition for the HomelessCome to the Coalition to the Homeless on December 25th and perform the Mitzvah of helping those in need by serving a hot breakfast sponsored by SOJC!

Space is limited to 30 people – send Brett Spector an email at [email protected] to RSVPCoalition for the Homeless Wish List Items(A box will be set up in the SOJC lobby Sunday, November 18th to collect these items)

1. Womens/Mens Socks2. Womens/Mens Underwear3. Mens undershirts4. Deoderant5. Shaving Cream6. Shaving Razors7. Tooth Brushes/Tooth Paste8. Lotions, shower gels, perfumes (for women)9. Gift cards – movies, Subway, Fast-Food Restraunts 10. Any gifts for kids in age from 0 – 15 years old

About the Coalition for the Homeless Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida was created in 1987 by a group of concerned citizens who noted a growing problem of homelessness in the community. The Coalition is now the largest provider of homeless services in Central Florida. The coalition’s mission is to address the needs of the homeless in our community and to serve as a catalyst for community collaboration to end homelessness. The Coalition is able to help over 750 people each day, including men, women and children. As one of the few emergency shelters that accept intact families in Central Florida, we see a large number of families in need of shelter and support. On any given night, the Coalition provides services to over 250 children, with a current average age of 8 years old. Last year, the Coalition served more than 300,000 meals.

continued on next page



But the Coalition doesn’t provide just a safety net for emergencies. The goal is to return residents to self-sufficiency through counseling, job training, and educational programs. While our clients work to reestablish productive lives, we provide transitional housing and daycare for their children until they are ready to move back into the community. Coalition for the Homeless operates two campuses. The main campus on Central Avenue in Parramore includes the Center for Women & Families, a 240-bed center for single women, single parents with children, and intact families; the Pavilion, a drop-in shelter for 375-plus men and nine transitional apartments to offer recovering male addicts the next stage toward independence. A separate campus near the intersection of Magnolia Ave. and East Hillcrest St. is home to Women’s Residential and Counseling Center

(WRCC), a 138-bed transitional facility for women, or women with children. Community support, through volunteering and donations, is a big key to the Coalition’s success depending on all members of the community, including individuals, foundations and corporations, for the support needed to carry out the mission. If you want to learn more about Coalition for the homeless go to the website at http://www.centralfloridahomeless.org/index.h

What SOJC is doing on December 25th from 8:00AM – 11:00AM:Members of SOJC will perform an important mitzvah of helping those less fortunate by serving much appreciated hot Christmas Day meals to those members of our Orlando community who are in need.

We ask that members of SOJC:• Arrive at the Coalition for the Homeless at 8:00AM on Tuesday, December 25, 2012 to serve

in the Center for Women and Families and the Men’s Pavilion. We need a minimum of 10 volunteers at the CWF and 10-15 in the Men’s Pavilion. A total of 30 people and we will begin serving at 9:00AM.

• We will need to carpool as parking is limited. • You will need to keep purses, wallets, and cell phones locked in your car. Wear comfortable

clothing and closed toed shoes. Please pull back long hair! Everyone will need to wear a cap/hat, or we can provide lovely hairnets!

• We will need to raise $400 to participate in this program, so please contribute what you can to support this great program. Please see the list of needed items for people in the shelter on the previous page. Thank you to all of the volunteers and people who donated money in advance for all of your hard work and participation.

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– This Month’s Celebrations

DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS1 David Cohen

2 Milvia Oxer

3 Evan Rayman

5 Nathan Spear

7 Laurence Beltzer

7 Jacob Rubenstein

7 Richard Solomon

8 Lori Schwartz

10 Sophia Abramowitz

12 Dan Gerstenblitt

13 Rabbi Sharon Barr Skolnik

13 Jeffrey Fischer

13 Simone Schiffmacher

15 Lon Gelade

16 Karen Klavans

17 Matthew Bryan

17 David Lipschitz

17 Charlotte Wasser

18 Mathew Greene

18 Judith Marsel

20 Rhonda Fair

20 Gabriella Hochberg

22 Emma Laski

24 Carly Rayman

26 Matt Hochberg

27 Casey Brozanski

27 Susan Colton

27 Susan Nathan

28 Eva Cooper

29 Kevin Hoppey

29 Oren Nelson

31 Karen Gelade

31 Selma Schifter

DECEMBER ANNIVERSARIES21 Mark & Becky Silverstein

23 Kenneth & Pascale Feuer

23 Eric & Meredith Klaff

28 Kenneth & Rebecca Jacques

28 Harold & Milvia Oxer

29 Alfred & Shellie Spear

THANK YOUTo Mel and Judy Marsel for donating the Challah

every Shabbat morning.

To Marian and Ed Bromberg for donating the food

on Shabbat mornings.

To Michele and Jeff Fischer for donating the yummy desserts every

Friday night and cooking the Family Friday dinners.

Thank you to Jeff and Amy Imber and Sara Schlossman for their

generous donation of new chairs in the SOJC lobby.



observance Deseased observer

12/2/2012 Beatrice Schwartz Yale Schwartz

12/4/2012 Blanche Stern Frank Mitchell Frank

12/4/2012 Esther Spear Alfred Spear

12/5/2012 Seymour Wolfman Marion Wolfman & Larry Wolfman

12/8/2012 Annette Rosen Jeff Rosen

12/9/2012 Hyman Brown Lucille Ackerman

12/10/2012 Jordyn Rose Harris Wendi Harris

12/11/2012 Rose Siegel Arthur Siegel

12/11/2012 Jon Barkan Holly Myerson

12/12/2012 Jack Bernard Karin Snitz

12/19/2012 Patrice Feldman Michael Feldman

12/22/2012 Sophie Rosenberg Milvia Oxer

12/22/2012 Morris Goldstein Judith Marsel

12/22/2012 Jacob (Jack) Weiner Michael Weiner

12/22/2012 Isidore Regen Scott Regen

12/23/2012 Frieda Block Phyllis Zunk

12/25/2012 Reuben Snitz Andrew Snitz

12/27/2012 Leon Rossum Steven Rossum

12/27/2012 Rose Atkin Scott Regen

12/28/2012 Rose Becker Dorsky Susan Colton

12/30/2012 Morris Dorsky Susan Colton

12/31/2012 Gerald Snitz Andrew Snitz

12/31/2012 Ruth Bleecker Ronald Bleecker

– This Month’s Yarzheits



– This BoardSOJC Spiritual Leadersand Board of Directors

RabbiHillel [email protected]

CantorDoug [email protected]

PresidentMichele [email protected]

Vice PresidentVivian [email protected]

Vice PresidentJeff [email protected]

TreasurerCheryl [email protected]

Financial SecretaryShelly [email protected]

Recording SecretaryBen [email protected]

DirectorsEd A. [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Spector... [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

www.sojc.org 407-239-5444

If you know of anyunafilliated Jews in theSouthwest Orlando Area, please give their name and number to the SOJC office at 407-239-5444.

We would love to invite and welcome them to our social events throughout the year.

www.sojc.org Come visit our new website:Calendar, Newsletters, Registration and Membership Forms, USY, Kadima & Cantorial Corps,Religious School, “Ask the Rabbi” and Blog, more features added each week!Thank you Jacob Weiner and Jeff Sikora for donating their time and efforts to bring our presence back to the web!



– Our Sponsors

sponsors of soJC

Your ad here.

Contact the Synagogue for

more information.

www.sojc.org

Mel Marsel – Member of SOJC

Support yourbusiness and SOJCby advertising in the

newsletter andwebsite.

Call 407-239-5444

Support yourbusiness and SOJC

by advertising in thenewsletter and

website.

Call 407-239-5444

rabbi hillel skolnik’s message · 2012-11-30 · december 2012 / 17 kislev – 18 teves 5773 page...

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