CONGREGATION P’NAI TIKVAH — —
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Rabbi’s Message
Dear Chevreh: Those of you who participated in services on February 19th will remember how we worked in small groups to get relevant meaning from the portion of that week, Par’shat Tetzaveh. One of the questions with which we grappled that evening, and again the following morning in Torah Study dealt with the concept of the Cohein Gadol, the High Priest. We had read, in great detail, how Aaron, the first Cohein Gadol, was to be dressed; and we asked ourselves who, in contemporary times, might be considered comparable to the Cohein Gadol? In his book, Lessons in Leadership, Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, the former Chief Rabbi of Great Britain, points out that “one of the most important Jewish contributions to our understanding of leadership is its early insistence (on) separation of power.” In ancient times this could be conceived of as secular authority (King), religious authority (Priest), and moral authority (Prophet). Priests had to be descended from Aaron and could only be male. However, several prophets were female. Priests were considered “holy” and, therefore, were set apart from the people. Prophets, on the other hand, lived among the people. We can look at our literature and see that some words associated with the Priesthood are: pure, impure, sacred; for the Prophets we see such words as righteous, just, loving, and compassionate. Priests gave rulings; Prophets gave warnings. As Lawrence Layfer, a frequent Torah commentator in the Chicago Jewish News, says: “Priests constituted a religious establishment; Prophets an anti-establishment, critical of the powers that be.” Rabbi Sacks summed it up by saying: “In ancient Israel, kings dealt with power, priests with holiness, and prophets with integrity.” And the conclusion, of course is that no one person on earth can hold a monopoly on leadership. Judaism insists that only G-d is the commanding voice.
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Clearly times have changed. We no longer have a Mishkan (Tabernacle), nor an Ohel Moeid (Tent of Meeting). Nor do we bring Korbanot (sacrifices) to the Priests. Our tradition is revered, and it has undergone changes throughout the ages. While the original concept of a holy locus where G-d would “dwell” amongst us was an important and necessary innovation for its time, we now know that, G-d is wherever we let G-d in. Our homes are to be considered a “mishkan m’at” (a little sanctuary); when we transform wherever we are holding our services, that becomes a holy place; and when we hold services (traditionally at the three times a day that we had brought sacrifices in biblical times), we feel the presence of the Shechinah. But what about the Cohein Gadol? Our tradition reminds us that we were all to emulate holiness…to be a “kingdom of Priests.” (Exodus 19:6) And although the era of Prophets has passed, it seems quite natural for each of us to be leery of those in powerful positions, so, it would seem to me that the position of Cohein Gadol does not exist now and cannot be replicated…nor should it. We can learn from the bells and pomegranates of the priestly vestments that we each can carry ourselves in holiness. We can learn from the engraved stone epaulets and bejeweled ephod that we must be cognizant of our heritage and remember our history. We can learn from the headband that we need to carry a G-d consciousness with us at all times…perhaps the most challenging aspect to bear in mind. So, while we no longer live as we did in the wilderness of ancient times, nor as members of the Temple cult, we definitely can learn from the past. As times change and circumstances change, we can and, indeed, must change, adapt, reconstruct, and renew our leadership. We must take an active part in our own governance; and, hopefully, b’ezrat HaShem (with G-d’s help) we can then grow from strength to strength. L’Shalom,
Rabbi Yocheved Mintz
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Cantor’s Notes
A Note From the Cantor Okay, so my final two years at HUC were more of the same style as the previous years. We studied the nusach (the melodies) of the various holidays. We had classes on analyzing music so we could get ready for our fifth year thesis papers. With Cantor Schall I began to learn how to improvise the prayers according to the melodic modes that fit the various services. We studied Cantorial music history learning about how our liturgical music has evolved throughout the years. A part of that history was known as the “Golden Age of Cantors” a time between the two World Wars when many great cantors like Yossele Rosenblatt, Moishe Oysher, and Jan Peerce toured the country performing the great cantorial works. Cantor Israel Goldstein gave each of us in our class a piece from these great cantors to learn and perform. I was given a version of Shomeir Yisrael made famous by Yossele Rosenblatt to learn. It made me very nervous to have to work on a piece that was done by the cantor who is probably known as the greatest of the great. Surprisingly, I connected very well to that piece. I guess Izzy Goldstein knew me better than I did myself. I still love it today. I this Shomeir Yisrael with the Las Vegas Philharmonic for a concert for Israel’s 60th anniversary. At the end of our fourth year of study, my class received our Master’s of Sacred Music degrees. I also ended my second year of working at the Hebrew Congregation of St. Thomas. Unfortunately, in my second year there Tropical Storm Jean (when it was a degree below hurricane level) decided to visit St. Thomas on Erev Rosh Hashanah. Let me just say I don’t recommend driving in a near hurricane, even though I was only going a short distance. Well, the storm damaged the congregation’s social hall, and the money had to go to fixing that instead of bringing down a student cantor for a third year. So I changed congregations and spent a year working at the Jewish Home and Hospital in the Bronx while finishing up my years at the School of Sacred music.
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The fifth year mostly consisted of learning Yiddish and Ladino art songs, working on a final thesis and recital, and looking for jobs after we graduated. My thesis was on the music of a wonderful modern compose, and mensch, Ben Steinberg. His music has always touched me. The style of his music combined the traditional cantorial music he learned growing up with a father who was a cantor and all his father’s cantor friends (the ones of the Golden Age) who visited their home in Toronto, and the modern classical music Ben studied in the Canadian Royal Music Conservatory. I also have known Ben for many years. In my recital, a tribute to his music, I had the honor to be the second person to perform his version of “The 23rd Psalm” in concert. In May of 2006 my class was “Invested” as cantors. This term was used for many years instead of “Ordained”. This was a big contention between the cantors and rabbis of the Union of Reform Judaism for many years, but luckily this was changed a few years ago and the URJ officially changed all cantors to being “Ordained”. It is just a matter of semantics, but the use of words was confusing. It is a little strange for me to think that this year marks my 10th as an Ordained cantor. The years have had their ups and downs, but I am happy and grateful to have found a home here at Congregation P’nai Tikvah. L’Shalom, Cantor Marla Goldberg
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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE For those members who missed the semi-annual membership meeting of Congregation P’nai Tikvah that was held on Sunday, February 28, 2016, here is a summary of the meeting which was very much well received by the attending members. Agenda: Welcome- President Holland D’var- Rabbi Mintz President’s Message Financial and Membership Snap shot Highlights of Strategic Plan Community Stability and Growth Goals Education Spiritual Governance Financial Workshops- IF YOU COULD WHAT WOULD YOU DO? Closing Adjournment Financial and Membership Snap shot The basic operating expenses for the year is $ 100,800.00. Membership income increased from $ 23,001.00 to $ 28,020.00 for the period of July, 2014 to February, 2015 to the period of July 1, 2015 to February, 2016. This year the roast brought in $ 16,911.00 as compared with last year’s roast of $ 11,226.00. Total fundraising so far in 2015/2016 was $ 20,232.00. Last year at this time, we had raised $9218.00. Total income for 2015/2016 was $ 54,928.00 less operating expenses of $ 46,627.00 leaving a net income of $ 8,301.00. For the previous period of 2014/2015, total income was $ 55,084.00 less operating expenses of $ 44,305.00 leaving a net income of $ 10,778.00 I told the membership that we had projected an income of $ 79,815.00 for the 2015/2016 against operating expenses of $ 100,728.00 leaving a negative budget of $ 20,912.00. I reminded the membership that this projected operating expenses represent the “bare-bottom” expenses. Our goal is to be able to reach $ 100,800.00 each year as a starting point for future growth and development such as having a leased office space for educational courses and Jewish learning. continued on page 7
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Membership Snap shot 2015/2016 81 total members plus 3 life time members 66 pledged and paid members 9 paid members from the High Holiday promotions The total pledge commitments were $ 34,233.00. We have received $ 28,020.00 with the balance of $ 6, 214.00 on payment plan. Strategic Plan- topics that were discussedCommunity Stability and Growth Goals 100 plus membership Member retention Increased connectivity Supportive programs for members in need Building programs and protocols Membership Acquisition Expand and plan outreach events Strength marketing outreach Education Review current programming Develop new programming Priorities and incorporate ideas shared by members Spiritual Goals Improve implementation of current programs Expand spiritual connection Identify and implement new programming Identify spaces Governance Identify, train and develop committee and board members Explore best affiliation for future growth Identify locations at non-casinos for High Holiday Look for locations along route 215 Develop rabbinic succession Financial goals Increase membership revenue Increase grant funding opportunities Serious fund raising- $ 500,000.00- legacies, grant donations, endowments continued on page 8
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I then conducted the workshops. There were a series of questions that I asked the members to tell us what they would do if they could make changes within the CPT organization- here is what the membership stated, as follows: WHAT CHANGES WOULD YOU MAKE FOR SHABBAT SERVICES? Musical diversity Choir under the direction of the Cantor Gospel music Group activity to discuss Torah Interactive- a question and answer period Original melodies Possibility of more English without taking away the Hebrew Put L’cha Dodi in supplement Periodic learning service Page numbers more often announced Possible quarterly early service and dinner afterwards Possible Shabbat Saturday services in addition to Torah study WHAT CHANGES WOULD YOU MAKE FOR THE HIGH HOLIDAYS? No casinos in the future Huntridge Theater as future possibility Enhanced audio for hard of hearing LDS as location option or revisit UNLV’s separate building and parking Childcare again More opportunities for honors- we need more volunteers Speakers at Yom Kippur between breaks to have topics relating to the High Holidays Chevrutah study maybe for the break period Hiring valet for parking problems WHAT AFFILITATION SHOULD WE BE? We need to be more educated about the options such as Renewal, etc Post denominationalism Trans-denominationalism Which organizations or movements can provide resources and support Non-affiliation Reconstructionist World Progressive Organization Branding – business aspect for growth Can be unaffiliated now and change later Take away the labels and market who we are and what and how we do What changes, we like how we do our services continued on page 9
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OUR FINALTOPIC- WHAT MAKES A GREAT RABBI FOR YOU? Caring- heart and soul Educational- spiritual advisement Willingness to bring us into their home Rabbi’s resources Openness to diversity Female Inspiring Approachability Warm, friendly, caring Leader and also team player- works well with others Smiles Knowledgeable Answer’s questions Charisma Presence Walks the talk One of the community Mentor Wise understanding heart Good sales person to sell Judaism Good listener Excellent with children True collaborative partner that works with us Fun Sense of humor We can be proud of her Contributes to community The business to really know the people and their families Non-political rabbi Wisdom, knowledge, kindness Strength Ability to build foundation Accessibility Their own person Welcoming Challenging us to be better
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AFTER WE COMPLETED THE WORKSHOP QUESTIONS, I INDICATED TO THE MEMBERSHIP THAT THE LAST TOPIC OF WHAT MAKES A GREAT RABBI FOR YOU WAS MORE THAN ACADEMIC. I informed the membership that because of Rabbi Mintz’ health that she will be resigning as the primary Rabbi for Congregation P’nai Tikvah. She will hold the title of Rabbi Emerita and Senior Educational Instructor. Rabbi Mintz wants to be able to contribute to the Synagogue. She is not disappearing but obviously scaling back of her rabbinical duties because of her Parkinson Disease. Both the Board of Directors, the Search Committee and Rabbi Mintz understand the importance of making this transition as smooth as possible with both Rabbis and the Cantor working together in harmony. WE ALL HAVE BEEN THERE BEFORE WHEN A WELL-KNOWN RABBI HAS RETIRED…WE REALIZE THAT SOME MEMBERS MAY FEEL THE NEED TO MAKE A CHANGE IN WHERE THEY WORSHIP. BUT AND HERE IS THE BIG BUT…WE ASK ALL OF OUR MEMBERS TO GIVE US THE CHANCE TO MAKE THIS WORK. AFTERALL RABBI MINTZ DID NOT PUT HER HEART, SOUL AND RESOURCES TO BUILD THIS SHUL TO SEE IT FALL APART BECAUSE OF THIS CHANGE. REST ASSURED THAT THOSE RABBINICAL CANDIDATES WILL BE INVITED TO THE SYNAGOGUE SO THAT THE MEMBERSHIP WILL HAVE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET THE CANDIDATES. PLEASE MARK DOWN THIS IMPORTANT DATE. ON MARCH 18, AT THE SHABBAT SERVICES AND AT THE TORAH STUDY ON MARCH 19TH, RABBI DOV GOTTESFELD HAS BEEN INVITED AS OUR FIRST RABBINICAL CANDIDATE. HE WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE SERMON AND WILL JOINTLY LEAD THE TORAH STUDY THE NEXT MORNING WITH RABBI MINTZ. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE TO CONTACT ME. IF YOU WOULD LIKE A FORMAL COPY OF THE FINANCIAL REPORT OR A COPY OF THE STRATEGIC PLAN, PLEASE LET NANCEY KNOW AND WE WILL MAKE SURE ONE IS PROVIDED.
Barbara Holland President
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P’nai Tikvah in Action Congregation P’nai Tikvah breaks away in chavruta study for the parsha of the week; “How do you suppose Aaron felt with the ephod on his shoulders. Do we have a Aaron today?” This group study was facilitated by Board Member Iris Katz on the Shabbat of Tetazveh. Kol HaKavod Iris!
Our most recent Kallah and Chattan, Tania and Malcolm Kammer
Provost Shelley Berkley emceeing at the Rebel Regent Roast of Sam Lieberman (above) Chaplain Bonnie Polley and Rabbi Yocheved Mintz at our recent Brunch with Brilliants (right) 11
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Essence of Adar I This "Essence" is taken from the Sourcebook for Leaders, written by Rabbi Rachel Gartner and Barbara Berley Melits, for Rosh Hodesh: It's a Girl Thing! This experiential program was created by Kolot: The Center for Jewish Women's and Gender Studies to strengthen the Jewish identity and self-esteem of adolescent girls through monthly celebrations of the New Moon festival. The program is now available through Moving Traditions. Adar I is the twelfth month of the Jewish calendar. Seven of the nineteen years in the cycle of the Jewish calendar are leap years. When we add an extra month, Adar I, the regular Adar becomes Adar II. During leap years we celebrate Purim in Adar II. Adar I comes at the same time as the secular months February/March. We can think of Adar I as a hidden month, revealed only when we need it, to set the calendar straight! Similarly, in the natural world, many things hidden are coming to light. Hints of spring, until now hidden beneath the snow, begin to show themselves. We wonder when the first flowers will come out of their hiding place. The mazal (constellation) for Adar I is Pisces, dagim (fish). Living in the vast, deep ocean, fish are the creatures of a "hidden world." During Purim, which doesn't come until Adar II, Queen Esther saved the day by revealing her Jewish identity to the king. We imagine that during Adar I Esther's true identity was still hidden like a fish under water. Both Adar I and II are considered the happiest, most joyous months of the Hebrew calendar. Adar's motto is "Mishenihnas adar marbim besimha" or "When Adar arrives, joy increases." Tradition teaches that Adar is so full of joy that it is as if Adar were pregnant with happiness. Some years we need two Adars to contain all the joy of Adar! Features There are no holidays in Adar I; however, the Talmud teaches that the only difference between Adar I and Adar II is that we tell the story of Purim in Adar II. Adar I can therefore be considered a month of preparation for the festivities of Purim. Purim is observed on the 14th of Adar II, except in Jerusalem, where Purim is celebrated on the 15th of Adar II in honor of the Jews of Shushan, who fought against their enemies for an extra day. The story of Purim is told in Megillat Esther (The Book of Esther). Megillat Esther is one of two books of the Bible to bear a woman's name. (The other is Ruth.) Jews often refer to the Hebrew Bible as the Tanach, after the initial letters of its three parts: Torah (Instruction), Nevi'im (Prophets), and Ketuvim (Writings). Megillat Esther is found in Ketuvim. Purim is the only Jewish holiday that focuses on the talents, courage, and dedication of a woman. The story begins when Queen Vashti is banished for refusing to entertain the king's guests, continued on page 15
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and Esther is chosen in a beauty contest to be the new queen. Haman, the evil courtier, gets promoted to grand vizier, but Mordechai, Esther's uncle, refuses to bow down to him. Haman decides to take revenge on Mordechai and on all the Jews. He convinces the foolish King Ahashverosh (Ahasuerus) to call for the massacre of all the Jews throughout the kingdom. Purim means "lots" because Haman picked lots to decide precisely when to kill the Jews. Mordechai and Esther devise a plan to foil Haman's evil plot. Esther courageously approaches the king and invites him to a series of parties in Haman's honor. At the third party Esther wines and dines the king, reveals that she is Jewish, and pleads for the life of her people. Haman is hanged, and the Jews are saved. Fabulous Females Queen Vashti and Queen Esther show tremendous bravery in the Purim story. We will honor them both in Adar II. Dina. Beginning in the second century CE, the twelve calendar months were associated with the twelve tribes of Israel. Adar I is an additional, 13th month which some traditions associate with Dina, Leah's only daughter, and the youngest of Leah's children. Dina's story is complicated, and we know little about it. One day she goes out to meet the women of the local Hivite town and ends up entangled with one of the men of the place. Some traditions say that Dina chose freely to spend time with this man; the Torah implies that he imposed himself on her by force. Unfortunately, the Torah does not record Dina's own thoughts and feelings on the matter, and so we are left to speculate. Dina's story reminds us to be careful and to make good choices in potentially dangerous situations. At the same time, it is very important to understand that when someone is the victim of a crime when he or she was simply going about freely, the victim is innocent. When we or someone we care about are hurt, there can be a tendency to wish that the victim had done something differently so she would not have come in harm's way. But we must remember that the one harmed is not in any way at fault. Foods Hamantaschen are the best-known traditional food for Purim. These triangular cookies, filled with poppy seeds, fruit, cheese, or prune jam, are said to represent the three-cornered hat or three-cornered pocket of the villain Haman. In Israel, hamantaschen are called oznei Haman, Haman's ears. Some Sephardic Jews have a custom of wrapping hard-boiled eggs in pastry dough in the shape of an animal or a Purim character. These folares are baked, displayed, and later eaten as a Purim treat. Bean dishes, such as humous, are also eaten to remind us that, according to legend, Esther ate a vegetarian diet while in the court, in order to avoid eating non-kosher food.* *This and additional Purim foodways information is found in Teaching Jewish Holidays: History, Values, and Activities, by Robert Goodman (Denver, CO: A.R.E. Publications, 1997). http://www.ritualwell.org/ritual/essence-adar-i
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For the Love of Hamantaschen
Best Hamantaschen Recipe Ingredients ½ cup butter (or margarine) ¾ cup granulated sugar 1 egg 1 Tbsp milk (or almond milk) 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp grated lemon zest 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour ¼ tsp baking powder ¼ tsp salt Directions Beat the butter and sugar together until smooth. Add egg, milk, vanilla and lemon zest until mixed thoroughly. Sift together the flour, baking powder and salt. Add dry mixture to wet mixture until incorporated. Note: if the dough is too soft, increase flour amount by ½ cupfuls until firm. Chill dough for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours. Dust surface with powdered sugar to keep from sticking. Roll the dough to about ¼ inch thick. Using a round cookie cutter, cut out and place onto cookie sheet. To keep the dough from sticking to your cutter, dip in powdered sugar before each cut! Fill each round with your favorite filling, and using your favorite method, pinch corners together tightly. Bake at 400° for about 7-9 minutes. Recipe adapted from Betty Crocker’s Picture Cookbook, General Mills, 1950 http://www.myjewishlearning.com/the-nosher/15-mouthwatering-hamantaschen-recipes-for-purim/
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continued from page 16 Hamantaschen as savory hors d’oeuvres? Or perhaps as a hearty supper dish? Maybe reimagined as a saucy and cheesy personal pizza? For too long the hamantaschen has been cornered into being the expectedly sweet holiday treat. When culinary considering the iconic Purim cookie, it’s clear that its most important characteristic is its shape. Its triangular form is meant to ridicule the Purim villain Haman’s hat, or even more insulting, ears. And beyond the shape, a hamantaschen is about the crust that holds or cradles a flavorful filling. Balsamic Red Onion Hamantaschen Bites are a fun and fanciful take on the Purim treat reinterpreted for grownups and would be delicious served along a nice glass of wine or cocktail. Thinly-sliced red onions are sautéed in balsamic vinegar and scattered with tangy goat cheese crumbles or if you prefer a more assertive flavor: blue cheese crumbles. And then it’s all baked in a crispy, flaky, buttery hamantaschen dough. The salty sharp flavor of the crust, due to the parmesan, makes it unique and irresistible. The Steak and Mushroom Hamantaschen is a Jewish take on the British steak and kidney pie. The crust is chewy and adds extra flavor to the dish with olive oil and the dried herbs folded in. The dough is parve and vegan, and tastefully holds the filling for the pizza hamantaschen as well. …Because you just can’t reimagine the hamantaschen as savory without including a version of pizza hamantaschen for the kids… and who are we kidding? The adults as well. You can use cubed fresh mozzarella or shredded cheese, dried basil or fresh strips; do it just the way you like your pizza. Or hamantaschen. The Doughs It’s important that the hamantaschen dough is sturdy enough to hold its triangular form while baking, yet still tender enough to be toothsome. Both doughs start off with a shaggy appearance and texture, but after being wrapped and chilled in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, it all comes together nicely. Olive Oil- Herb Dough 2 cups all-purpose flour/whole wheat flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon dried herb-of-choice ¼ cup olive oil (extra-virgin is fine) ½ cup cold water Yields enough dough for 6 hand-pie sized hamantaschen 1. In a large bowl whisk together the flour, salt, and herbs. 2. Add oil to the bowl and mix into flour with a fork. Add water and mix in with the fork until it is absorbed. 3. Knead lightly until the dough comes together somewhat. Gather dough in a ball, cover in plastic wrap, and flatten into a disc. Place in fridge and chill for two hours or overnight. Butter Parmesan Crust 1 2/3 c. all-purpose flour ¼ teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 1/3 cup finely grated parmesan cheese 1 stick unsalted butter, cubed and chilled 6-8 tablespoons ice water 1 teaspoon distilled vinegar Yields enough dough for 5-6 hand-pie sized hamantaschen or 12-15 hors d’oeuvre sized hamantaschen 1. In a large bowl whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cheese. 2. (Here’s where it gets messy and especially fun for kids) Add chilled butter cubes and rub it into the flour mixture until pea-sized crumbles result. 3. Add 4 tablespoons of water and teaspoon of vinegar, and mix in to form a dough, adding more water, one tablespoon at a time, as needed. 4. Gather dough together and wrap in plastic and level into a disc, and chill for at least two hours or overnight http://www.myjewishlearning.com/the-nosher/15-mouthwatering-hamantaschen-recipes-for-purim/ continued on page 18 17
continued from page 17 Rice Krispie Treat Hamantaschen Yield: 2 dozen treats As a former chef and pastry chef I had many delicious sweet and savory treats in mind to turn into hamantaschen for this year. But I wanted to keep it simple enough to recreate in a home kitchen, yet something different to also get people excited about Purim and hamantaschen of course too. Rice Krispies treats on a stick are always one of the most popular items I sell from my dessert company, and so it felt only natural to turn these into a Purim delight for the whole family to enjoy. The best part about this recipe is that there is no oozing of filling, no seams of the dough breaking, and NO BAKING. This recipe may be different than your average Rice Krispies Treat since there is no fluff involved. The authentic way to make Rice Krispies Treats uses real marshmallows melted with a little butter to insure a crunchy, not too sweet and absolutely delicious dessert. To use these in your mishloach manot I recommend heading to Amazing Savings or Michael’s to get some cute treat bags to store them. Include a packet of hot chocolate mix and you have yourself an easy and delicious s’mores -themed mishloach manot. Ingredients 6 cups Rice Krispie 10 oz mini marshmallows - DO NOT substitute fluff. 3 Tbsp butter or margarine Lollipop sticks 15 oz bar of semi-sweet chocolate Sprinkles, candy or other decorative items Directions Grease a large bowl and the spatula you will be using. This will help avoid too much sticking. In a microwave safe bowl melt the margarine with the marshmallows at 30 second intervals at full power. Stir after each interval. When melted, remove and pour into bowl with the Rice Krispies. Mix well until all are coated with marshmallow. Spread mixture into a greased sheet pan. Using your hands, spread mixture evenly onto pan, then press together so the Rice Krispie treats are compact. (see picture above) Allow to sit for several minutes at room temperature to cool. Using the pictures as your guide, form the Rice Krispie treat mix into Hamantaschen shapes. Place lollipop stick into center. Over a double broiler, melt 3/4 of a large bar (15 oz) of semi-sweet chocolate. Reserve the last 1/4. Melt chocolate, stirring gently until all is melted. Take chocolate CAREFULLY off the double broiler. Be very careful not to let any water drip into chocolate. If this happens, you need to start over. Chocolate "seizes" when water gets into it. If this happens, the tempering process does not work. Add in the remaining chocolate. Let sit in hot chocolate for 30 seconds, then stir. Dip hamantaschen into chocolate, tap stick lightly to remove the excess chocolate. Place on parchment to let dry. After 2 -3 dipped pops, start decorating before that chocolate sets in! Use your favorite sprinkles, chocolate chips, oreos or candy to add your own flare. http://www.myjewishlearning.com/the-nosher/15-mouthwatering-hamantaschen-recipes-for-purim/ continued on page 19 18
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Yummy Gluten-Free Hamantaschen Yield: 7-8 dozen small hamantaschen Food related traditions like hamantaschen are some of my favorite parts of being Jewish. I had to work on this hamantaschen recipe for a while, because creating gluten-free cookie dough that can be rolled and cut is no easy task. But I think I’ve finally got it (don’t skip chilling the dough; it really makes all the difference)! This recipe makes hamantaschen that are crispy on the outside but soft and chewy on the inside. If you prefer them to be completely crispy, bake an additional 2-3 minutes. Ingredients 1 cup (2 sticks) of margarine, softened to room temperature 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar 2 eggs 1 tsp vanilla 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp salt 3 1/4 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour, divided* jam or other filling of your choice Directions *Make sure you choose a gluten-free flour that includes xanthan gum (I like Bob's Wonderful Bread Mix or Namaste Foods Perfect Flour Blend), or add 1 1/2 tsp of xanthan gum with the flour. Cream margarine and sugar on high for 2-3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, allowing to combine before adding the next. In a separate bowl, whisk together baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 3 cups of gluten-free flour (and xanthan gum if required). Turn mixer to the lowest speed and add to wet mixture a 1/2 cup at a time, allowing the dry ingredients to be incorporated before adding more. The dough should be soft but not sticky. Divide the dough into four parts, roll each into a ball, wrap separately in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for an hour. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Dust the counter and the rolling pin with gluten-free flour. Remove 1 dough ball from the refrigerator and cut into circles using a 4 oz. mason jar or small juice glass (if the dough is too sticky to roll out and cut, add additional flour a tablespoon at a time until it is pliable enough). Fill with 1/4 tsp tsp of filling, pinch into a triangle, and bake at 350 for 15 minutes. Cool on a wire rack. Repeat with remaining dough balls. Rella Kaplowitz has blogged gluten-free and mostly dairy-free as the Penny Pinching Epicure for the last 3 years. In "real life," Rella lives in Washington, DC with her husband where she specializes in organizational improvement consulting for the federal government http://www.myjewishlearning.com/the-nosher/15-mouthwatering-hamantaschen-recipes-for-purim/ continued on page 20 19
continued from page 19 The Fillings: Balsamic Red Onion 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon butter 2 red onions, peeled and halves and then thinly sliced 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon honey Salt and Pepper, to taste ½ cup crumbled goat cheese or blue cheese 1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat for 30 seconds and then add olive oil and butter. 2. When the butter has melted add the thinly sliced onions, and sauté until the onions are tender about 3-4 minutes. 3. Mix in balsamic vinegar and honey. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. 4. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions are reduced and soft. Pizza Margarita 1/2 cup seasoned tomato sauce 4 oz. or ½ cup of fresh mozzarella cubed 1-2 basil leaves cut into thin strips Steak & Mushroom Filling 1 tablespoon(+) vegetable oil 12 oz. beef chuck, cut into ½” cubes 1 yellow onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 4 oz. mushrooms, cleaned and diced ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 cup dark beer ½ cup vegetable or beef stock Parsley, for garnishing 1. Add vegetable oil to a large skillet and cook beef cubes over medium-high heat until browned on all sides. About 5 minutes. 2. Remove from pan and add diced onions, adding more oil if necessary. Cook, stirring every so often, until soft, 34 mins. Add garlic and stir for one minute more. 3. Throw in the mushrooms and cook until they start to shrink and wilt and get darker, approx. 4 minutes. 4. Add salt, pepper, flour, and Worcestershire sauce, mix well. 5. Add beer and stock, and stir well, making sure to lift up the bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Bring to a boil and return the meat to the pan. Lower the heat, cover and let simmer for 45 minutes, or until the meat is tender. To Assemble: 1. Remove dough from fridge and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. In the meantime preheat oven to 400F. 2. Prepare a flat, uncluttered surface by lightly sprinkling with flour 3. Lay out utensils in arms reach: A rolling pin, a 3 ” round cookie cutter, or a drinking glass with a 3″ diameter, a soup bowl (for the larger meal sized hamantaschen), a dough scraper or metal spatula, and a couple of baking trays covered with parchment paper or sprayed with PAM. OK, now to roll: Remove the dough from the plastic wrap, place on the lightly floured surface and gently but firmly roll the dough out in brisk strokes, until it reaches ¼ “-1/8” consistency. Press the rim of the glass, bowl, or cookie cut in flour, and then cut out circles from the dough. Depending on the size of your dough circle place heaping tablespoons or teaspoons of the filling-of-choice in the center. Re-roll dough scraps until all dough is used. http://www.myjewishlearning.com/the-nosher/15-mouthwatering-hamantaschen-recipes-for-purim/ continued on page 21 20
continued from page 20 For the Balsamic Onion–scatter blue or goat cheese crumbles across the top of the onions, before folding over each side of dough snugly over filling. If you wish you can brush with an egg wash (1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp water) before placing in oven 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown around edges. For Margarita Pizza spread thickly in the center of the dough, place mozzarella cubes and basil strips and proceed as above. To get more of Rachel’s recipes, check out her cookbook Get Cooking: A Jewish American Family Cookbook. For more Purim books, costumes, and accessories, visit Amazon and a portion of the profits will go to help support Kveller.
http://www.myjewishlearning.com/the-nosher/15-mouthwatering-hamantaschen-recipes-for-purim/
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Jewlicious Learning Purim is here. This semester our youngest readers will be putting their AlephBet skills to use in their first text. Our Solelim (pathfinders) will be blazing trails in their reading and printing skills; and our pre-B’nei Mitzvah students will be completing their proficiency in the Shabbat morning liturgy, polishing their trope skills, and learning to read from the Torah. Delving into the Weekly Sidrah in age-appropriate levels, working on individualized mitzvah projects, and connecting to history through learning about Jewish heroes, the curriculum continues to challenge and engage our youngsters.
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Jewlicious Learning cont.
Our soon to be Bat Mitzvah, Smicha Sara and Bar Mitzvah Yonatan practice their reading skills on the
Megillah Ester.
From seed to garden, Jewlicious learners receive a hands-on lesson about the distance from Tu B’Sh’vat to Passover through the growing of parsley for the seder table. 24
KIDZ KORNER for March
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Congregation P’nai Tikvah Women’s Rosh Chodesh Group If you are interested in hosting, please contact the office 702.436.4900
March 13, 2016
Adar II
Home of Ann Mandell
May 15, 2016
Iyyar
Home of Wendy Sprattler
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SIGN UP TO SPONSOR AND/OR CATER AN ONEG Our first and third Friday evening services create space for people to socialize, to talk over the ideas Rabbi Mintz has shared in her sermon, and to meet one another. Sponsoring and/or catering the Oneg Shabbat is a lovely way to share joy of Shabbat with the community. Any reason is a good reason to sponsor and/or cater an Oneg! Perhaps you are marking a special event (a birth, baby-naming, engagement, wedding, anniversary, graduation, bar/bat mitzvah) or you want to remember a loved one in a special way, or celebrate a return to health, a new job…or any reason.
March 4
Sponsored & Catered by Faith &David Silverman in honor of Faith becoming a Bat Mitzvah
March 18
Sponsored by and Catered by Nancey Eason in honor of Gina’s Birthday
April 1
April 15
May 6
May 20 June 3 June 17
Sponsored by Jane Kusel in loving memory of her husband, Donald R. Kusel and Catered by Sponsored by Harriet Bernstein in celebration of Roz Tessler’s Birthday and Catered by Jaeger-Lockett Family in celebration of Kristen’s birthday. Sponsored by Roz Tessler in memory of Jerry Bernstein and Catered by David Abrams in honor of Jonathan’s Bar Mitzvah Sponsored by MayLee DeLee in honor of her birthday and Catered by Barbara and Andy Holland’s in honor of Sami's Bat Mitzvah Sponsored by and Catered by Susana and David Abrams in honor of Jonathan’s Birthday Sponsored by Marian Baum in memory of father, Isidor Baum and Catered by
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Chai Mitzvah participants make a commitment to "Grow their Judaism" in three aspects: Ritual, Social Action and Learning. Chai Mitzvah meets monthly to facilitate continuing Adult Education experience that lets the students explore what they are interested in learning as a group and individually.
This years remaining topics will be:
March 6, 2016-Joy of Judaism facilitated by Iris Katz May 1, 2016-Do Jews Believe in the Afterlife facilitated by Jennifer Cohen June 12, 2016-�Headed to the Mikvah� facilitated by the Chai Mitzvah class of 2015-2016
Fee for the Year is $25.00 Call 702.436.4900 for more information
"Grow Your Judaism Your Way: Ritual, Social Action, Learning"
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March Birthdays Douglas Hansen Jerald Cohen Harriet Bernstein Jane Kusel Lesley Wagmeister Torrey Barrett Laura Sussman
3-Mar 6-Mar 14-Mar 18-Mar 19-Mar 20-Mar 26-Mar
Zandra & Elliot Bender Susan & Rick Bindhamer
Jewlicious Learners Classes continue in 2016, Monday afternoons at the Rabbi’s home, from 4:15 to 6:00, October to June. Registration is open. CALL TODAY!
9-Mar 24-Mar
For $40.00 a prayer book can either be purchased for personal use or be dedicated to the congregation “In Memory” or “In Honor of” and a card from CPT will be sent to the family. The prayer book plate will be placed on the inside cover of our Kol HaNeshamah siddur.
VOLUNTEERISM ABOUNDS AT CPT Homes are always needed for the various activities and meetings of our congregation. Offer a Personal prayer – If you’d like to write your own, please do so. If you would like to see it published in the newsletter. 29
For the Month of March Rudolph Berdy -Remembered by Barbara Finkelberg, Debbie Mindlin & Lynn Pisetzner Frank Brandt -Remembered by Ann Brandt Abraham Feldman -Remembered by Barbara & Andrew Holland Allick Greenman -Remembered by Dana Yavitz Carolyn Gamerman -Remembered by Iris Katz Michael Kosso -Remembered by Kristen Jaeger & Tim Lockett Esther & Ben Marber -Remembered by Sam Marber Basha Piekarsky -Remembered by Jay & Ronald Piekarsky Louis Tessler -Remembered by Harriet Bernstein & Roz Tessler
Memorial plaques are available; to honor the departed, to inspire the living. to be remembered in the hearts of those we leave behind is, in a sense, to live forever. For further information, call the Synagogue office at 702-436-4900
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COMMUNITY RESOURCES Jewish Free Loan Program-The Jewish Free Loan Program (JFL) was established by the Jewish Federation and administered by the Jewish Family Service Agency to assist members of our Jewish community with short-term, no-interest loans of up to $2,500. For more information about the Jewish Free Loan Program please contact Renea Parr at the Jewish Family Service Agency (rparr@jfsalv.org) or 702-732-0304. United Way Fund for Families-Our Jewish Federation has a close working partnership with United Way and the Marilyn & Tom Spiegel Fund for Families. The fund was established by the Spiegel's to specifically address financial needs for families with children who are struggling to make "ends meets" and who are committed to providing a wholesome family environment for their children in spite of short-term financial insecurity. To learn more about this program please contact Jewish Federation at 702-732-0556. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Jewish Family Service Agency (JFSA) is looking to fill several volunteer positions within the food pantry. The following Openings are available: Client Intake, Food Packing and Distribution – M, W, F from 8:30-12:30 (weekly shifts of 3 or 4 hours) Pantry Maintenance – M, W, Th, F between 1:00-5:00 (weekly shifts from 1 hour and up) Food Pantry Coordinator – 15 hour per week commitment (schedule can be flexible) Middle School and High School students are welcome to join our team! Please contact Katie Brase at 702-732-0304 or at katieb@jfsalv.org for further information.
Find us on the second floor of Center for Social Justice in Houssels House, across from the Architecture Library. Matthew Kramer-Morning | Director, The Hillel Jewish Student Center at UNLV Sigesmund Center | 2317 Renaissance Drive | Las Vegas, NV 89119 Email: Matthew@jewishlasvegas.com
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COMMUNITY REWARDS
OUR SMITH’S NPO NUMBER IS 61229.
61229
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Nid’vei Lev- Donations from the Heart Rabbi Discretionary Fund David Aris Stephanie Paykel
MiSheBeriach Tehilla bat Shoshana from Carolyn Stewart
In gratitude In gratitude of Rabbi Mintz’s visit from Mark Blatt
Torah Study David Aris Ann Brandt Annie Wolff
In honor of the Roast of Sam Lieberman Shelley Berkley Stacy Blattner Dale Gardner Gloria Granat Adam and Ellen Greenfield and Family Kate Korgan Jane Kusel Susan Lieberman Hal & Rebecca Lieberman and Family Dan Lieberman and Suzanne Fenton and Family Ann Mandell Anne and Ari Mintz Jon Mintz Rabbi Yocheved Mintz Wendy Kraft and Laura Sussman "Way to Go Shmu" The Phyllistan's Jacob Thompson Jeff Van Niel
Tzedakah All those who participate in eScrip
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March 1 March 2 March 4 March 5 March 6 March 7 March 9 March 13 March 14 March 16 March 17 March 18 March 19 March 20 March 21 March 22 March 23 March 28 March 29 March 30 April 1 April 2 April 3 April 4 April 5 April 6 April 8-9 April 11 April 13
CALENDAR AT A GLANCE: 7:00 PM Jewish, Alive and American 7:00 PM Hebrew I 6:30 PM Tot Shabbat, Kabbalat Shabbat and Ma’ariv at the Kraft Sussman Chapel 10:00 AM Torah Study—Par’shat Vayakhel at the home of Rabbi Mintz 3:30 PM Chai Mitzvah “Joy of Judaism” facilitated by Iris Katz 4:15 PM Jewlicious Learning 7:00 PM “Year of Dialogue featuring Matt Brooks and Jeremy BenAmi at Temple Beth Sholom 7:00 PM Women’s Rosh Chodesh at the Home of Ann Mandell 4:15 PM Jewlicious Learning 7:00 PM Hebrew I 7:00 PM CPT Board Meeting 7:30 PM Kabbalat Shabbat and Ma’ariv at the Kraft Sussman Chapel 10:00 AM Torah Study—Par’shat Vayikra-Shabbat Zachor at the home of Rabbi Mintz 11:30 AM Brunch with Brilliants featuring Dr. Charles Bernick 4:15 PM Jewlicious Learning 7:00 PM Jewish, Alive and American 7:00 PM “Come As You Are Not” Purim Service at the home of Rabbi Mintz 4:15 PM Jewlicious Learning 7:00 PM Jewish, Alive and American 7:00 PM Hebrew I 6:30 PM Tot Shabbat, Kabbalat Shabbat and Ma’ariv at the Kraft Sussman Chapel 10:00 AM Torah Study—Par’shat Tazria at the home of Rabbi Mintz JCC presents the 2nd Annual Women’s Spirituality Day: Seek-Nourish-Ignite 4:15 PM Jewlicious Learning 7:00 PM Jewish, Alive and American 7:00 PM Hebrew I Stay@Home Shabbaton featuring Scholar-in-Residence Rabbi Rachel Barenblat a.k.a. “The Velveteen Rabbi” 4:15 PM Jewlicious Learning 7:00 PM Biblical Hebrew I
Blessing for the Month of Adar Bet We know that when we enter the month of Adar, our joy is to increase. In this leap year, we are treated with a second Adar, so let us commit to increasing joy in our life, eliminate or reduce what does not generate joy in our life, be open to that which does, wipe out our personal Amalek, give Tzedakah, and serve G-d with joy! Amen. 36