MARCH 2019 / ADAR I – ADAR II 5779
VOL. 60, NO. 3
A Statement Celebrating our love for Israel and supporting equal rights for all to love and marry in Israel
MARCH 2019
VOL. 60, NO. 3
Washington Hebrew Congregation Clergy
M. Bruce Lustig, Senior Rabbi Susan N. Shankman, Rabbi Aaron Miller, Associate Rabbi Eliana Fischel, Assistant Rabbi Mikhail Manevich, Cantor Susan R.A. Bortnick, Cantor
Senior Staff – Education
SUPPORTED BY AN ENDOWMENT FROM LIBBY AND MELVIN MANDEL
DJ Schneider Jensen Head of Schools, Early Childhood Education Ira Miller, Director of Informal Education Stephanie Tankel, Director of Religious Education
Senior Staff – Administration
In This Issue Rabbi’s Reflection................................................................................3 On Purim, Why Do We ... ..................................................................4 Washington Hebrew Congregation’s “Totally ‘80” Purim...............................................................................5 Make an Impact on Mitzvah Day.........................................................6 Three Weddings and a Statement About the Event.......................................................................8 The Statement.......................................................................... 9 Sponsorships and Support...................................................... 10 Meet the Couples....................................................................11 Planning for Passover......................................................................... 12 WHC’s Tikkun Olam Values Fund Connects Students and Professionals................................................................. 13 WHC Programs & Events................................................................... 14 March Calendar................................................................................. 16 B’nei Mitzvah.................................................................................... 18 Life Cycle...........................................................................................20 Contributions..................................................................................... 22 Special Security Assessment............................................................... 23 “God Is in the Crowd — Discussing 21st-Century Judaism in Amram............................................................................. 25 “The Music of the Movies” — WHC’s Spring Concert.......................... 32
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Steven Jacober, Executive Director Lindsay Fry Feldman, Director of Member Services Naomi Abelson Gohn Director of Temple Programs & TOV Mohan Mistry, Director of Engineering & Maintenance Eliza Prince, Director of Development Stephen Stoupa, Director of Finance Susan J. Hanenbaum, Executive Director Emerita
Officers
Nell Shapiro, President Mark Director, First Vice President Janet Katz, Vice President Andrew Lazerow, Vice President Jeffrey Weiss, Vice President Kimberly Wachen, Treasurer Richard Newman, Assistant Treasurer Deborah Goldman, Secretary Dan Werner, Assistant Secretary Lewis Wiener, General Counsel
Board of Directors
Jami Axelrod Ellen R. Berlow Barry Chasen Sharon Jaffe Dan Beth Levin Dubin Betty Jane Eichberg Joseph Firschein Susan B. Gerson Edward P. Joseph Anne Lackritz Jeremy London Alejandro (Ali) Mayorkas
Past Presidents Leonard I. Abel David Astrove David R. Berz Stuart L. Bindeman Earl M. Colson Meg Jacobs Flax Jay W. Freedman
David Metzner William Miller Sandy Nesbit Ari Redbord Steven A. Robins Andrea Rubinfeld Lynn Sachs Melissa Schwartz Aaron W. Stopak Paula Tiedemann Philip Urofsky Kimberly Vogel
Susan J. Hanenbaum Sherry Bindeman Kahn Richard D. Kaufmann Hank D. Levine Kenneth L. Marks Paul J. Mason
John M. Nannes Lauren S. Racoosin Froma Sandler Bob M. Shapiro David A. Vise Richard M. Young Peter L. Winik
Auxiliary Presidents & Contacts
2239: Valerie Hillman Bluestein The Boomers: Jeanne Fleming Brotherhood: Alan Singer Couples Club: Kim & Brian Cooper, Chris McCannell & Ven Neralla EmptyNesters: Joan Adoff, Ruth Seif, Marcia Weinberg Prime Timers: Phyllis Belford, Sandy Grant Sisterhood: Ellen M. Miller WHECTY: Ian Rosenthal
We Can Be Reached
Temple Office ........................................ 202-362-7100 (M-Th: 9:00 am – 5:30 pm; F: 8:30 am – 4:00 pm) Weekends/After Hours ...........................202-895-6341 Temple Fax ..............................................202-537-1091 Julia Bindeman Suburban Center ............ 301-279-7505 Julia Bindeman Suburban Center Fax ..... 301-354-3200 Listen In .................................................202-895-6333 Live Streaming of Services......streaming.whctemple.org Website .................................................whctemple.org Jennifer Millstone, Editor, jmillstone@whctemple.org The Washington Hebrew Congregation Journal (Permit No. 4240) is published 11 times a year by Washington Hebrew Congregation. Send address changes to 3935 Macomb Street NW, Washington, DC 20016.
Rabbi’s Reflection Rabbi Susan N. Shankman
O
ne of the highest mitzvot in Judaism is to rejoice with bride and groom, and therefore, one of the most joyous celebrations in Judaism is that of the Jewish wedding. Sharing in the joy as two individuals join their hearts and their lives is a profound experience. As rabbis, the moment of standing under the chuppah with a couple is an awe-inspiring one, as we have the opportunity in witnessing, along with those who have gathered, an incredibly intimate moment.
“
new worlds through marriage, each of which begins with a wedding. Thus, matchmaking is a tradition that originated with the creation of the world! The process of finding a match has certainly changed over the centuries. For some, finding a match today can be as easy as clicking on a profile on JDate, “swiping right,” or making plans that consist of “just lunch.” The key concept here is freedom of choice. Freedom of choice in marriage is something that most of us take entirely for granted. In Israel, however, marriage is completely controlled by the Orthodox Chief Rabbinate, which maintains a monopoly on religion in the Jewish State. As a result, Reform, Conservative, and Reconstructionist marriages, as well as civil marriages performed in Israel are not recognized as legal. Couples who wish to marry outside the authority of the Chief Rabbinate — by choice or by prohibition — must go abroad to do so.
A Midrash (commentary) in Bereishit Rabbah tells of a Roman matron who asked Rabbi Yosi ben Halafta, “In how many days did God create the world?” He told her, “In six days God made heaven and earth.” “And since then,” she asked, “what has God been doing?” Rabbi Yosi responded, “God has been making matches.” The matron exclaimed, “Even I can do that. I have many slaves, both male and female. In no time at all, I can match them for marriage.” Rabbi Yosi responded, “Though this may be an easy thing for you to do, for God it is as difficult as splitting the Sea of Reeds.” The matron went home and lined up a thousand male and a thousand female slaves and paired them off before nightfall. The morning after, one slave came in with a black eye, another was bruised, another had a broken leg. She asked them what had happened, and each one said to her, “I don’t want this one” [with whom you matched me]. Immediately, she summoned Rabbi Yosi and said, “Your God is not like our god, and your Torah is true, pleasing, and praiseworthy. You spoke wisely.”
Washington Hebrew Congregation loves Israel, and we are showing our support for equal rights for all to love and marry in Israel through a very special historic event that will take place in Kaufmann Sanctuary on Tuesday, March 26 at 6:30 pm.
This Midrash stems, in part, from the concept that a wedding is equivalent to the creation of the world. What has God been doing since completing the creation of our world? Creating
“Three Weddings and a Statement” will be, as we’ve been calling it, a triple-y joyous celebration! But it will be much more than that. Three couples, Ilia and Sahar, Micha and
Freedom of choice in marriage is something that most of us take entirely for granted. In Israel, however, marriage is completely controlled by the Orthodox Chief Rabbinate, which maintains a monopoly on religion in the Jewish State.”
The majority of Israelis oppose this injustice. In fact, public support for freedom of choice in marriage in Israel has been increasing steadily; today more than 70 percent of Israelis want the State of Israel to recognize Reform, Conservative, Reconstructionist, and civil marriages performed there.
Continued on page 13. WHC Journal – March 2019 | Page 3
WHC Purim
On Purim, why do we … …call the holiday “Purim”?
Purim means “lots” — as in “lotteries.” Haman wanted to kill all of the Jews in Shushan because Mordechai, who was a Jew, would not bow down to him. Haman cast lots to choose a date for the massacre. He picked the 13th of Adar. We celebrate Purim on Adar 14, commemorating Esther and Mordechai’s bravery and the foiling of Haman’s plot.
…wear costumes?
Possibly originating from Esther masking her Jewish identity from the king, our tradition of dressing in costume adds to the merriment and celebration of this holiday. At WHC, we often dress according to our theme, which this year is the ‘80s Purim Prom! All styles of 1980s fashion are welcome (and encouraged)!
…read from a scroll?
This special scroll looks a bit like a Torah on one roller. It’s called Megillat Esther (Scroll of Esther), and contains the text we will read on Shabbat Purim. A special tradition at WHC, the scroll is held vertically when it is read, enabling all to see the text.
…use groggers?
The word “grogger” comes from the Polish word for rattle. When we read Megillat Esther, we are obligated to “blot out the name of Haman,” which we do very well with our voices, feet, and these loud noisemakers that Jews have used in Purim celebrations since the 13th century.
…give baskets of treats and tzedakah?
Another commandment of Purim is to give gifts of food to friends and those in need. Mishloach manot are baskets of sweets and treats given to friends, and matanot l’evyonim are gifts of food or tzedakah for the poor, helping us remember the social justice aspect of the holiday.
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… eat hamantashen?
These triangular cookies, which are shaped like the three-cornered hat Haman wore, are a delicious treat. You can support WHC’s youth programs by buying a box (or several!).
WHC Purim
All adults: $20; Kids 4–10: $10 3 and under: free
*For all the details and to register for dinner: whctemple.org/Purim WHC Journal – March 2019 | Page 5
Tikkun Olam
Make an Impact Mitzvah Day: Sunday, April 7
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ur biggest volunteer day of the year, Mitzvah Day, will be here before you know it. We have projects at Temple, JBSC, and out in the community that are perfect for all ages and abilities. This is a great opportunity to really make a difference in the lives of those in need living throughout our region. Here are some of this year’s featured projects:
Comfort Cases
We are collecting the following new items: sturdy backpacks for kids, fleece pajama bottoms in sizes M-2XL for boys and girls, travel-sized toiletries, journals, pens and pencils, and small stuffed animals. Kids in foster care can feel a small bit of dignity by getting a backpack filled with brand-new items instead of a trash bag.
Like to Paint?
Roll up your sleeves, help sand some walls, and put a coat of fresh paint on a house in conjunction with Yachad, an organization that strives to preserve and revitalize affordable homes in the metropolitan D.C. area.
A Warm Blanket
Help us tie knots on fleece blankets to be distributed to people in need.
Head “Off Campus”
Enjoy a simple mitzvah while you share some punch and enjoy a game of bingo with residents of the Hebrew Home. Take part in a sing-along with Cantor Manevich at Ring House. Visit with seniors at Homecrest House in a meet and greet with a performance by Teen Angel Project. Bring your friendly pooch to Sunrise Assisted Care, and visit with senior friends.
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WHC Collects
In addition to your involvement on Mitzvah Day — Sunday, April 7 — we also need your help NOW to collect items that will be used for various projects. You’ll find bins at JBSC and Temple through Mitzvah Day where you can donate the following items: • • • • • • • •
Gently used jeans for children, women, and men New pajamas for girls and boys sizes 10 - Adult XXL Sturdy backpacks for kids Small stuffed animals, journals, pens, pencils, and books for kids ages 10+ Personal care products and feminine hygiene products for homeless women Bras and underwear for women in all sizes Travel-sized toiletries (toothbrushes, toothpaste, lotion, soap, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, etc.) Unexpired, non-perishable food
We will also be collecting gently used clothing, small household goods, shoes, and cleats. You can place goods in the large storage trailer at JBSC or leave items at the parking lot entrance at Temple. Learn more about Mitzvah Day and sign up for a project now at whctemple.org/MitzvahDay.
Three Weddings and a Statement
With great joy and meaning, we invite you to attend
An
at
A Statement Shmu el
Sahar
Ilia
h Yes
Micha
ai
Tuesday, March 26 at  6:30 pm Triple-ly joyous reception follows
at Washington Hebrew Congregation
Generously supported by the Elizabeth & Richard Dubin Family Heritage Fund Presented jointly by Washington Hebrew Congregation and Adas Israel Congregation, in partnership with the Israel Religious Action Center, the Union for Reform Judaism, the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, and the Masorti Foundation for Conservative Judaism in Israel. David Astrove and Mindy Strelitz, Co-Chairs, Washington Hebrew Congregation Toni Bickart and Arnie Podgorsky, Co-Chairs, Adas Israel Congregation WHC Journal – March 2019 | Page 7
Three Weddings and a Statement
Three Weddings and a Statement We love Israel and support equal rights for all to love and marry in Israel. However, the State of Israel does not recognize marriages performed outside the sanctioned religious authorities (Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Druze). Interfaith and same-sex marriages are illegal in Israel. If you are Jewish and want to marry in Israel, the only way to have a legally-recognized
marriage is to be married in an Orthodox ceremony performed by an Orthodox rabbi. Interestingly, if a couple — whether Reform, Conservative, interfaith, or gay — is married abroad, the State of Israel will recognize this marriage upon their return.
It is with great joy and meaning, that we invite you to a very special event welcoming three couples into the covenant of marriage. WHC and Adas Israel Congregation, in partnership with the Israel Religious Action Center, the Union for Reform Judaism, the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, and the Masorti Foundation for Conservative Judaism in Israel, are bringing three Israeli couples — Sahar and Ilia, Shmuel and Anat, and Yeshai and Micha — halfway around the world and across an ocean to Washington, D.C. to make their love official. We hope you will join us at Temple on Tuesday, March 26 at 6:30 pm to celebrate love and the right to marry the person you love. These couples could not or would not legally marry in Israel under the auspices of the ultra-Orthodox Chief
Rabbinate for three very different reasons: one is a transgender, gay couple; the second couple has one partner that Israel’s Chief Rabbinate does not consider to be Jewish; the third couple rejects the Rabbinate’s rigid control over Jewish marriage. Their stories can be found on page 11. Each of the couples would prefer to marry in their home country. In fact, each has already had a wedding ceremony in Israel, but the government will not recognize their marriages. Much like “commitment ceremonies” that same-sex couples had in the United States before the Supreme Court decision that legalized gay marriage, the three couples are married only in their hearts.
Learn more and RSVP at whctemple.org/3weddings Page 8 | WHC Journal – March 2019
Three Weddings and a Statement
The Statement Israelis care about this matter, and public support has grown in recent years. A 2018 Smith Polling Institute survey found that nearly 70 percent of Israelis want the State of Israel to recognize Reform, Conservative, and civil marriages performed there. Panim, an association of 60 Israeli nonprofit organizations dedicated to building a society that supports Jewish pluralism, conducted a survey in 2018 that showed that more than 2,400 Israeli Jewish couples were married outside Israel in 2017, which represents an 8 percent increase from the previous year. The study also reported that most Israelis who married abroad were indeed eligible to marry in Israel under the auspices of the Orthodox Chief Rabbinate — but they chose not to do so. And it’s not that the couples were turning away from
Judaism. In fact, the study said, most of these weddings included traditional Jewish rituals. Dozens of Israeli organizations have also voiced their support for religious pluralism, including the Israel Religious Action Center, the public and legal advocacy branch of the Reform Movement in Israel; Jewish Pluralism Watch, the nonpartisan advocacy program of the Masorti (Conservative) Movement in Israel; and Hiddush, an organization that promotes religious freedom, diversity, and equality. These groups and others have been advocating to advance religious diversity and freedom of religion in Israel and are working to create a broadly inclusive Israeli democracy based on the principles of social justice and equality.
On April 9, Israel will hold its legislative election, and Israel’s citizens will have the opportunity to vote for leaders who will amend this historic injustice. On the day after the election, we will send the following Statement to Israel, urging the Prime Minister to take action. We invite you to add your name to this Statement at whctemple.org/3weddings.
To the Prime Minister of Israel There are 800,000 Israelis who are denied the basic right to marry. The current law requiring all Jewish marriages to go through the Orthodox Chief Rabbinate discriminates against women, converts, and non-Orthodox Jews and does not fit with Israel’s democratic values or nature. Previous Israeli governments have denied freedom of choice in marriage, which has alienated many of Israel’s citizens. The new Israeli government has an opportunity to amend this historic injustice. We urge you, as you form a new government, to ensure that: • All citizens of the State of Israel be permitted to legally marry in their country according to their conscience and religious choice. • Weddings performed by Israeli Reform and Conservative Rabbis be recognized by the State as a basic commitment to democracy and equality. • The State of Israel ends the ultra-Orthodox monopoly on issues of “Personal Status.” • That all citizens of the State of Israel be granted the right to marry in a civil ceremony, outside of a religious framework. We show our support for these principles by standing together with Sahar Malka and Ilia Rabkin, Shmuel Carmel and Anat Ornik, and Yeshai Moskovitch and Micha Yehudi. They are three Israeli couples who could not or would not marry in Israel under the auspices of the Orthodox Chief Rabbinate for three different reasons: a conversion that is not recognized in Israel, the rejection of the Rabbinate’s rigid control over Jewish marriage, and sexual orientation. We supported them as they stood under the chuppah and were married in Washington, D.C., and we share in the joy and blessing of the Jewish families they will build in Israel. We urge you to promote equality for all Israelis in marriage and divorce, and we are eager to partner with and support you in that effort. WHC Journal – March 2019 | Page 9
Three Weddings and a Statement
Sponsorships and Support As many of us know from experience, weddings can be costly We are so grateful for our amazing committee members, partners, and the businesses, groups, and organizations who are doing so much and giving so generously to make this evening a success. Whether in person or from afar, you can support love and the right to choose how one marries in Israel by becoming a Sponsor or Business Partner of Three Weddings and a Statement.
Do you own a business? We offer you the opportunity to sponsor/underwrite a specific event component (e.g., wedding cake, floral arrangements, hotel accommodations, kippot, etc.) or make a monetary donation (see Individual Sponsorship Levels below). As a Business Partner, your company will be listed on the event website and in the printed wedding program. More than 1,500 people will attend Three Weddings and a Statement in person and thousands more will join via live stream. It’s a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity to help make a beautiful and powerful statement … and to increase visibility, generate positive PR, and receive media exposure for your business, as the event is being promoted locally, nationally, and internationally. For more information, please contact Stephanie Tankel, stankel@whctemple.org or 202-895-6338.
Individual Sponsorship Levels: Simcha: $18 Show your support for marriage equality and love in the state of Israel!
Breaking of the Glass: $180 Recognition on WHC website Recognition in printed wedding program
Kiddushin (Betrothal): $360 “Breaking of the Glass” level benefits, plus: Recognition on all digital promotion and social media Recognition on all printed materials Photo opportunity with wedding couples
Auf Ruf: $750 “Kiddushin” level benefits, plus: Recognition on press release to local and national media Reserved seating at wedding for 2
Ketubah: $1,800 “Auf Ruf” level benefits, plus: Opportunity to meet with couples prior to the wedding at a private event
L’Chaim: $3,600 “Ketubah” level benefits, plus: Verbal recognition at wedding from bimah Reserved seating at wedding for 5
Sheva Brachot (Seven Blessings): $5,000 “L’Chaim” level benefits, plus: Reserved seating at wedding for 8
Chuppah: $10,000 “Sheva Brachot” level benefits, plus: Reserved seating at wedding for 10 Commemorative wedding gift
Mazel Tov: $25,000 “Chuppah” level benefits, plus: Honorary wedding party member – witness signing of ketubot, and present wedding rings during ceremony
Learn more and sign up to become a sponsor at whctemple.org/3weddings!
Sponsors and Partners as of February 18, 2019: Business Partners: Kimpton Glover Park Hotel, Jordan Von Lange Events, Mazel Tov Glass, Ruth Mergi Ketubahs “Bedeken” (Veiling) Synagogue & Organization Partners: Temple B’nai Shalom, Temple Rodef Shalom, Women of WHC “Ketubah” Level Sponsors: Deborah & David Astrove, Rabbi Amy & Gary Perlin, Nell & Ed Shapiro “Auf Ruf” Level Sponsor: Shari & Mark Director “Kiddushin” Level Sponsors: Rabbi Esther Lederman, Leslie Maitland & Dan Werner, Daryl Messinger, Lauren & Sam Racoosin, Rabbi Amy Schwartzman & Kevin Moss Three Weddings and a Statement is generously supported by the Elizabeth & Richard Dubin Family Heritage Fund Page 10 | WHC Journal – March 2019
Three Weddings and a Statement
Meet the Couples Sahar Malka & Ilia Rabkin Sahar, 27, was born in Netanya and grew up on a moshav (cooperative farm community). Raised Orthodox, Sahar was first exposed to the Reform movement when she worked for a year on Kibbutz Lotan before enlisting in the army. Following her IDF service, she was selected to serve as a Israeli emissary (Shaliach) for the Jewish Agency of Israel and spent two years here in the D.C. area working at Adat Shalom Reconstructionist Congregation, Ohr Kodesh Congregation, and Milton Gottesman Jewish Day School of the Nation’s Capital. Ilia, 30, was born in Novosibirsk, Russia and made aliyah with his mother and brother in 1998 because of the country’s financial crisis. After earning his bachelor’s degree in political science and communications at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, he also served as Continued on page 19.
Micha Yehudi & Yeshai Moskovitch When Micha was five, he and his family made aliyah from New Zealand to Eli, a small settlement north of Jerusalem made up of mostly Modern Orthodox families. Micha was born female, and his whole life, he felt uncomfortable in his body. Unlike many young Orthodox girls, after high school he decided to join the IDF. He became a career officer and found that the army was a perfect way to hide from life and the things expected from a young Orthodox woman. While in the army, Micha made the decision to transition to being a man, and the IDF fully supported him throughout his entire transition. After seven years of service, Micha left the army to study at the Pardes Institute of Jewish Study and began to volunteer with Shoval, an organization of Orthodox LGBT individuals who Continued on page 19.
Anat Ornik & Shmuel Carmel Anat, 25, is a special education teacher from Kiryat Yam, and Shmuel, 26, is an assistant manager at a computer and technology store in Haifa. They met online and have been together for nine years. Shmuel is the child of a deaf couple originally from Romania. His father was born and raised Jewish, and his mother was Christian, but she converted before they married in Romania. After they had been married for several years, the couple made aliyah and were both given Israeli citizenship. When Shmuel’s mother passed away, he approached the Hevra Kadisha (a “holy community” of Jewish men and women who prepare a body for burial according to traditional Jewish law to organize her funeral). It was only then that he Continued on page 19.
WHC Journal – March 2019 | Page 11
WHC Journal
Planning for Passover Sephardic Passover Cooking Class
Wednesday, April 3, 6:30 pm Sur La Table in North Bethesda Discover how to prepare new dishes that will bring spice and distinctive flavors to your Passover meal. This private class at Sur La Table is limited to just 18 participants. $85 per person
Women’s Seder Sunday, April 14 4:00 pm at JBSC
Co-hosted by the Women of WHC and the Women of Temple Beth Ami Before you sit down for your family seder, come to our Women’s Seder led by Brooklyn-based singer/songwriter Michelle Citrin, WHC’s Rabbi Shankman and Cantor Bortnick, and Temple Beth Ami’s Rabbi Baht Weiss. Michelle Citrin’s funky, soulful, folk-pop sound, powerful music, and viral videos including “20 Things to Do With Matzah” are just some of the reasons why Time included her in their top ten “New Jew-ish Rock Stars,” and the Jerusalem Post called her the “Jewish IT Girl.” Gather the women in your life from all generations and celebrate with us.
First Night Seders Friday, April 19
Congregational Seder 6:00 pm at Temple
$55 – adult WHC members $63 – adult guests $20 – all children 12 and under
2239 Young Professionals Seder 7:00 pm at Calvary Baptist Church $45 per person Page 12 | WHC Journal – March 2019
Holiday Worship at Temple
Shabbat and Festival Service Saturday, April 20 at 10:30 am
Festival and Yizkor Service Friday, April 26 at 10:30 am
Freedom Seder Wednesday, April 24 6:00 pm at Temple
Join us as we welcome our Christian and Muslim partners for a traditional seder meal with songs, prayers, and readings emphasizing the universal struggle for human dignity. $20 per person $200 to sponsor a table for our interfaith guests
Learn more and register for any of our seders or the cooking class online at whctemple.org/Passover.
WHC Journal
WHC’s Tikkun Olam Values (TOV) Fund Connects Students and Professionals
R
ecognizing that a high school degree no longer provides access to careers and jobs that can support a family above the poverty level, CollegeTracks, a Montgomery County, Maryland nonprofit organization, helps more than 1,300 low-income, immigrant, and first-generation-to-college students manage the challenges of the college experience every year. Many of these students, however, do not have access to professionals who can guide and advise as they consider post-college options. Looking for a means to improve access for these students, CollegeTracks, with the support of Washington Hebrew Congregation’s TOV Fund, piloted a career exploration and networking event at Temple in late January. CollegeTracks identified 18 college students in their College Success program and coached them on networking and interviewing skills prior to the event. On that late-January evening, 18 WHC members with expertise in the students’ areas of interest came to Temple to share professional insight and increase the students’ awareness of opportunities that are available to them through a panel discussion and a series of one-on-one networking sessions. The energy in the room was high. Both panelists and students were effusive in their praise of the pilot program, including this volunteer who shared, “I loved getting to speak with four students and hear from my fellow congregants about how the traditional path to finding one’s work and passion does not always work.”
Jennifer Adams, CollegeTracks’ College Success Director, had this to say: “One student said that he’s never been to an event before where so many people wanted to share their professional experiences with him and wanted to learn more about his career goals. This was such a valuable experience for the students we serve, and we’re delighted that so many WHC members stepped up to help!” If you would like to learn more about this TOV Fundsupported program with CollegeTracks, please contact Janet Katz, katzfam3@yahoo.com.
Rabbi’s Reflection (continued from page 3) Yeshai, Anat and Shmuel, will stand under three chuppot in Kaufmann Sanctuary as their marriages become legally recognized throughout the world. Our Washington Hebrew clergy will join with our colleagues from Adas Israel and the larger community in expressing our support for marriage equality in Israel. We will join together in lifting them up (spiritually and literally) as they celebrate their love. We will dance with them, sing with them, eat with them, and rejoice with bride and groom. I hope you will join us for this meaningful event. You can learn more about Three Weddings and a Statement throughout this issue of the WHC Journal. WHC Journal – March 2019 | Page 13
In March …
WHC Programs & Events Featured Programs “I
‘80s” Purim Carnival & Arcade
Sunday, March 17, 12:00 pm at JBSC
This year’s Purim Carnival is a throwback to the great arcades of the 1980s. There’s something for everyone — traditional carnival games and prizes, arcade favorites, inflatables, magic, pizza, and hamantashen. Give back to the community by participating in our food drive. Bring boxes of cereal or other non-perishable items and exchange them for free tickets to use at the carnival (one ticket per item, up to a maximum of five tickets).
The Amram Scholar Series Presents
Steven R. Weisman
whctemple.org/Purim Ira Miller: imiller@whctemple.org, 301-354-3209
WHC’s Totally ‘80s Shabbat Purim A “Totally Tubular” Purim Extravaganza for All Ages Friday, March 22 at Temple 6:00 pm Dinner 7:00 pm Service 8:00 pm After-Party!
Omigosh guys! Persia and WHC are time-warping to the decade when boom boxes were big, and hair was, like, bigger. Find your neon everything, parachute pants, shoulder pads, and scrunchies, and get ready for a radical night!
RSVP required for dinner only ($):whctemple.org/Purim Jonathan Honigman: jhonigman@whctemple.org, 301-354-3223
Three Weddings and a Statement
Tuesday, March 26, 6:30 pm at Temple
With great joy and meaning, Washington Hebrew Congregation and Adas Israel Congregation invite you to a very special event welcoming three couples into the covenant of marriage. These couples could not or would not legally marry in Israel under the auspices of the ultra-Orthodox Chief Rabbinate for three very different reasons: one is a transgender, gay couple; the second couple has one partner that Israel’s Chief Rabbinate does not consider to be Jewish; the third couple rejects the Rabbinate’s rigid control over Jewish marriage.
RSVP preferred (sponsorship opportunities): whctemple.org/3weddings Stephanie Tankel: stankel@whctemple.org, 202-895-6338
The Music of the Movies Spring Concert with Cantors Manevich and Bortnick Sunday, March 31, 3:00 pm at JBSC
Join us for this wonderful afternoon of song as our Cantors entertain us with music from films that have become the soundtrack to our lives. Accompanied by a small ensemble, we hope you’ll sing along and let your memories flow.
RSVP required ($): whctemple.org/SpringConcert Beth Donaldson: bdonaldson@whctemple.org, 202-895-6309
Sunday, March 3, 10:30 am at Temple RSVP preferred: whctemple.org/Amram
Special Worship Experiences
Tot Shabbat & Family Dinner
JBSC: Friday, March 1 at 5:30 pm Temple: Friday, March 29 at 5:00 pm
Our clergy and song leaders make going to Friday night services a fun, fulfilling event for families with young children (or grandchildren). We begin with an engaging, interactive Tot Shabbat service, which lasts about a half-hour and teaches Jewish prayers, traditions, and rituals through songs, stories, and art projects. A family-style (and family-friendly) dinner follows the service.
RSVP required for dinner only (free): whctemple.org/TotShabbat DJ Jensen: djensen@whctemple.org, 301-354-3208
Macomb St. Shabbat – For All Generations
Friday, March 1, 6:00 pm Pre-Oneg; 6:30 pm Shabbat service, with an oneg following
This joyful, spirited, and musical Shabbat evening has connection at its center. We begin with Chevruta — a deep and engaging Torah discussion for adults with our clergy, Shabbat stories for children, and hot hors d’oeuvres and drinks for everyone. Our service has live musical accompaniment and encourages participation, interaction, and connection. We’ll celebrate simchas, offer support through Mi Shebeirach and Kaddish prayers, and bless all our children. Afterward, eat, and drink, connect with clergy, or head off to begin your weekend. It’s all up to you! whctemple.org/MacombStShabbat Beth Donaldson: bdonaldson@whctemple.org, 202-895-6309
Page 14 | WHC Journal – March 2019
In March …
WHC Programs & Events Special Worship Experiences
Special Worship Experiences
For Teens and Young Adults With Special Needs Friday, March 1, 6:00 pm at Temple
Friday, March 15, 6:15 pm at St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church in Southwest DC
Sensory-Friendly Shabbat Celebration
Join us for this social gathering, where an emphasis is placed on building community through the beauty of Shabbat. Together, we will braid, bake (and enjoy!) challah and share in the Shabbat blessings through song and some movement. All participants are expected to be accompanied by an adult or caregiver.
RSVP required (suggested donation): whctemple.org/Shabbat Stephanie Tankel: stankel@whctemple.org, 202-895-6338
Pollin Music Shabbat Featuring Stacy Beyer For All Generations Friday, March 8, 6:00 pm at Temple
This native New Yorker moved to Nashville and discovered a niche in country and Jewish music with songs that have found their way into congregations around the world and inspired change. She has performed for the United Nation’s 60th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women and presented Congressman John Lewis with “Good Trouble,” a song based on his well-known phrase about civil disobedience. whctemple.org/Pollin Beth Donaldson: bdonaldson@whctemple.org, 202-895-6309
District Shabbat for Tots – For Families With Young Children Friday, March 15, 5:30 pm at St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church in Southwest DC
It’s a fun and engaging service led by WHC’s clergy and musicians Dan Nichols and Alan Goodis that’s perfect for the little ones — and will get you on your feet too. A complimentary, family-friendly Shabbat dinner follows, so both tummies and hearts will be full at the end of your evening.
District Shabbat – For All Generations
Meet us at the Southwest Waterfront for these monthly Shabbat experiences with our clergy and folk-rock musicians Dan Nichols and Alan Goodis. The night begins with a “Shot of Torah,” a spirited Torah discussion with our clergy fueled by food and drinks. It’s followed by a high-energy, participatory, and musical service and an optional dinner, catered by a fabulous, local restaurant.
RSVP required ($ for dinner only): whctemple.org/DistrictShabbat Marsha Humphries: mhumphries@whctemple.org, 202-895-6303
2239’s Metro Minyan – For Adults in Their 20s and 30s Friday, March 22, 6:15 pm at First Congregational UCC in NW Washington, DC
This monthly Shabbat evening for young professionals starts with “A Shot of Torah,” an opportunity to study the weekly Torah portion and dive into a discussion. The guitar-led, comeas-you-are service starts at 7:00 pm and is followed by dinner. RSVP required for dinner only ($): whctemple.org/2239 Valerie Bluestein: vbluestein@whctemple.org
Shirei Shabbat – For All Generations Friday, March 29, 6:00 pm at Temple
Led by our cantors, Shirei Shabbat is a spiritual, musical, and uplifting way to end the week. With upbeat tunes, some new music, and more English, this “Shabbat of Songs” is certain to engage and delight.
whctemple.org/Shabbat Beth Donaldson: bdonaldson@whctemple.org, 202-895-6309
RSVP required (free): whctemple.org/DistrictShabbat Marsha Humphries: mhumphries@whctemple.org, 202-895-6303
Continued on page 21.
“God Is in the Crowd” — Discussing 21st-Century Judaism in Amram
T
al Keinan, a dynamic, American-born former Israeli fighter pilot who went on to build a highly successful career as a financier in New York and Tel Aviv, will speak about the survival of Judaism in an Amram Scholar Series lecture on Sunday, March 31 at 10:30 am at Temple. The author of God Is in the Crowd: Twenty-First-Century Judaism, Keinan presents a provocative blueprint for reversing the alarming decrease in worldwide Jewish population. Through the prism of his own dramatic personal story and lessons learned in his profession, Keinan investigates how the collective intelligence of the Jewish people — its “crowd wisdom” — can be harnessed to endow Judaism with new purpose and save it from extinction. A Young Global Leader of the World Economic Forum, Keinan is also a director of the Steinhardt Foundation. A book sale and signing will follow his lecture, which is presented in partnership with the Jewish Book Council.
WHC Journal – March 2019 | Page 15
March 2019 Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
9:30am Religious School (M&B) 9:30am 6th-Grade Parent/Child B’nei Mitzvah Learning Day (B) 10:30am Amram Scholar Series: Steven R. Weisman (M) 12:00pm Prime Timers’ Luncheon (M)
3
10
9:30am Religious School (M&B) 9:30am 6th-Grade Parent/Child B’nei Mitzvah Learning Day (M) 3:00pm Boomers: Potluck & Planning (OUT)
9:30am Religious School (M&B)
Totally ‘80s al Purim Carniv ! e ad & Arc
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4
10:00am Women of WHC Purim Workshop with Rabbi Shankman and Monthly Meeting (B) 10:00am Conversational Hebrew: Intermediate (M) 10:00am Women of WHC Monthly Meeting (B) 7:00pm WHC Academy: Script 1 – The Haggadah (M)
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10:00am Conversational Hebrew: Intermediate (M) 7:00pm 12 Jewish Questions (M) 7:00pm WHC Academy: Script 1 – The Haggadah (M)
ECCs Closed: Staff Development Day (M&B)
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10:00am Conversational Hebrew – Intermediate (M) 7:00pm 12 Jewish Questions (M) 7:00pm WHC Academy: Script 1 – The Haggadah (M)
12:00pm (B)
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9:30am Religious School (M&B) 12:30pm Bereavement Support Group (M)
31
9:30am Religious School (M&B) 10:30am Amram Scholar Series: Tal Keinan (M) 3:00pm Cantors’ Concert: “The Music of the Movies” (B)
Page 16 | WHC Journal – March 2019
10:00am Conversational Hebrew – Intermediate (M) 7:00pm 12 Jewish Questions (M) 7:00pm WHC Academy: Script 1 – The Haggadah (M)
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4:30pm Hebrew School (B) 6:00pm Conversational Hebrew: Beginner/Intermediate (M) 6:30pm Upper School and Confirmation (M) 7:00pm Back to Basics (M) 7:00 pm Bereavement Support Group (M) 7:00pm WHC Books: “If All the Seas Were Ink” (M)
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4:30pm Hebrew School (B) 6:00pm Conversational Hebrew: Beginner/Intermediate (M) 6:30pm Upper School and Confirmation (M) 7:00pm Back to Basics (M) 7:00 pm Bereavement Support Group (M)
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4:30pm Hebrew School (B) 6:00pm Conversational Hebrew: Beginner/Intermediate (M) 6:30pm Upper School and Confirmation (M) 7:00pm Back to Basics (M)
4:30pm Hebrew School (B) 6:30pm Three Weddings and a Statement (M)
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B: Julia Bindeman Suburban Center
10:00am Back to Basics (B) 1:00pm Wednesday Study Group(M) 4:30pm Hebrew School (M) 6:00pm JAM Rehearsal (M) 6:00pm Conversational Hebrew: Beginner (B) 7:00pm Back to Basics (B) 7:00pm Wise Aging (M)
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10:00am Back to Basics (B) 1:00pm Wednesday Study Group(M) 4:30pm Hebrew School (M) 6:00pm JAM Rehearsal (M) 6:00pm Conversational Hebrew: Beginner (B) 7:00pm Back to Basics (B) 7:30pm Community Issues/Social Action Meeting (M)
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Erev Purim 10:00am Back to Basics (B) 1:00pm Wednesday Study Group(M) 4:30pm Hebrew School (M) 6:00pm JAM Rehearsal (M) 6:00pm Conversational Hebrew: Beginner (B) 7:00pm Attorneys’ Study Group (M)
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9:30am Infant/Toddler CPR Training (B) 10:00am Back to Basics (B) 1:00pm Wednesday Study Group(M) 4:30pm Hebrew School (M) 6:00pm JAM Rehearsal (M) 6:00pm Conversational Hebrew: Beginner (B)
M: Temple
OUT: Not at a WHC location
Adar I – Adar II 5779 Thursday
Friday
Saturday
L’Taken Social Justice Seminar (OUT through Monday) 10:00am Women of WHC Literary Group (B) 10:30am Women of WHC Mah Jongg (B)
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7
NFTY-MAR “TheVent” (OUT through Sunday) 10:30am Women of WHC Mah Jongg (B)
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14
10:30am Women of WHC Mah Jongg (B) 7:00pm Shabbat at the Shapiros’ (OUT)
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10:30am Women of WHC Mah Jongg (B)
Totally ‘80s at Temple Shabbat PurimDinner
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6:00pm ce 7:00pm Servi ! ty ar 8:00pm P
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10:30am Women of WHC Mah Jongg (B)
Services: 5:00pm Tot Shabbat and Family Dinner (M) 5:30pm Lay Led Service (M) 6:00pm Shirei Shabbat Service (M)
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23 Services: 9:00am Early Torah (M) 10:30am Shabbat Service (M) B’nei Mitzvah of Henry Hollander and Ryan Schwartz 5:30pm Afternoon Service and Havdalah (M) Bat Mitzvah of Sophia King
Services: 5:30pm Lay Led Service (M) 6:15pm 2239’s Metro Minyan (OUT) 10:00am Conversational Hebrew: Advanced (B)
5:00pm WHECTY: Purim Carnival Prep (B)
Services: 9:00am Early Torah (M) 10:30am Shabbat Service (M) Bat Mitzvah of Jordyn White 5:30pm Afternoon Service and Havdalah (M) Bat Mitzvah of Sydnie Steinberg
Services: 5:30pm District Shabbat for Tots (OUT) 5:30pm Lay Led Service (M) 6:00pm Shabbat Service (M) 6:15pm District Shabbat (OUT) Purim
9 Services: 9:00am Early Torah (M) 10:30am Shabbat Service (M) B’nei Mitzvah of Jonathan Corwin and Asher Lewis 5:30pm Afternoon Service and Havdalah (M) Bat Mitzvah of Alison Asher
Services: 5:30pm Lay Led Service (M) 6:00pm Pollin Music Shabbat Service With Stacy Beyer (M) 10:00am Conversational Hebrew: Advanced (B)
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Services: 9:00am Early Torah (M) 10:30am Shabbat Service (M) Bat Mitzvah of Shara Zuckerman 5:30pm Afternoon Service and Havdalah (M) Bat Mitzvah of Samantha Goldsteen
Services: 5:30pm Lay Led Service (M) 5:30pm Tot Shabbat and Family Dinner (B) 6:00pm Macomb St. Shabbat Service (M) 6:00pm Sensory-Friendly Shabbat (M) 10:00am Conversational Hebrew: Advanced (B)
7:00pm E-T ECC’s “Baskets & Brews” Fundraiser (M)
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30 Services: 9:00am Early Torah (M) 10:30am Shabbat Service (M) B’nei Mitzvah of Owen and Sarah Finke WHC Journal – March 2019 | Page 17
Mazel Tov to WHC’s March B'nei Mitzvah
Shara Grace Zuckerman March 2, Morning Shara is a seventh-grade student at the Bullis School. She is the daughter of Naomi and Lester Zuckerman, the sister of Kailey, and the granddaughter of Lila & Eugene Disten, Harriet Zuckerman, and the late Burton Zuckerman.
Samantha Ryann Goldsteen March 2, Havdalah Samantha is a seventh-grade student at Holton-Arms School. She is the daughter of Kimberly & Mitchell Goldsteen, the sister of Kenzie and Emmie, and the granddaughter of Caryn & Jerry Manne and the late Barbara & Mark Goldsteen.
Alison Paige Asher March 9, Havdalah Alison is a seventh-grade student at Herbert Hoover Middle School. She is the daughter of Laurie & Noah Asher; the sister of Jane, Hillary, and Ethan; and the granddaughter of Barbara & Jules Stein and Myrna & Howard Asher. Jordyn Melissa White March 16, Morning Jordyn is a seventh-grade student at Cabin John Middle School. She is the daughter of Hannah & Jeremy White, the sister of Emma and Olivia, and the granddaughter of Lynne & Jeff Karp, Marsha White, and Michael White & Susan Heyman.
Jonathan Tyler Corwin March 9, Morning Jonathan is a seventh-grade student at Tilden Middle School. He is the son of Debbie & EJ Corwin, the brother of Danielle and Matthew, and the grandson of Gail & Paul Pershes and Louise & Barney Corwin.
Sydnie Morgan Steinberg March 16, Havdalah Sydnie is a seventh-grade student at Herbert Hoover Middle School. She is the daughter of Elana & Jeff Steinberg, the sister of Evan, and the granddaughter of Sheila & Izzy Zaiderman and Joyce & Jay Steinberg.
Asher Jacob Lewis March 9, Morning Asher is a seventh-grade student at Westland Middle School. He is the son of Nancy Kadowitz & Andrew Lewis, the brother of Phoebe, and the grandson of Ellen & the late Philip Kadowitz and Karen & John Lewis.
Henry Alexander Hollander March 23, Morning Henry is a seventh-grade student at the Norwood School. He is the son of Judy & Robert Hollander and the grandson of Chen Zuo Ming & the late Guo Yan Ling and the late Mr. & Mrs. Stanley N. Hollander.
Page 18 | WHC Journal – March 2019
Ryan Jordan Schwartz March 23, Morning Ryan is a seventh-grade student at Herbert Hoover Middle School. He is the son of Susan Schwartz and Martin Schwartz, the brother of Gary, and the grandson of Rita Twain, the late Gary Twain, Elaine Schwartz, and Rabbi N. William Schwartz.
Owen Thompson Finke March 30, Morning Owen is a seventh-grade student at Cabin John Middle School. He is the son of Ashley & Jeff Finke; the brother of Ethan, Melissa, and Sarah; and the grandson of Joyce Isaacson, Jack & Pat Isaacson, Harry & Olga Finke, and the late Patricia L. Finke.
Sophia Riley King March 23, Havdalah Sophia is a seventh-grade student at Cabin John Middle School. She is the daughter of Stacy & Seth King, the sister of Benjamin, and the granddaughter of Deanna & Gerald Eichwald and Maxine & Donald King.
Sarah Anna Finke March 30, Morning Sarah is a seventh-grade student at Cabin John Middle School. She is the daughter of Ashley & Jeff Finke; the sister of Ethan, Melissa, and Owen; and the granddaughter of Joyce Isaacson, Jack & Pat Isaacson, Harry & Olga Finke, and the late Patricia L. Finke.
Meet the Couples (continued from page 11) Sahar & Ilia
Micah & Yeshai
a Shaliach through the Jewish Agency for Israel and spent a year in Toronto working with Jews from all different backgrounds.
educate for tolerance and compassion toward LGBT youth and adults in the religious community.
Ilia, now working at a boutique HR firm in Tel Aviv, and Sahar, a student at Hebrew University in Jerusalem studying agriculture sciences, met at a conference for returning Shlichim two years ago. Their experiences as Shlichim opened their eyes to the diverse ways one can live a Jewish life. They both feel a strong connection to Judaism. However, they cannot accept a Judaism that does not allow for progress and equality, is intolerant and unaccepting, and does not permit someone to marry the person they love, which is why they have decided to have a Reform wedding.
Anat & Shmuel learned that the State of Israel and the Orthodox Chief Rabbinate did not recognize his mother’s conversion, because — in the Rabbinate’s interpretation of Jewish law — people who are hearing-impaired cannot convert. Israel’s Ministry of the Interior defined Shmuel’s mother as “without religion.” Even more shocking, this meant that Shmuel — who was born and raised in Israel, had a ritual circumcision as a baby, became a Bar Mitzvah, and served in the army — was also classified as “without religion.” For Shmuel and Anat to legally marry, Shmuel would have to convert. Shmuel has decided to undergo a conversion through the Reform movement, where both he and Anat feel greater acceptance, and they will have a Reform wedding outside of the auspices of the Orthodox Chief Rabbinate.
Yeshai was born to a Modern Orthodox family, but his extended family is Haredi. For his army service, he was in Hesder, a special track for religious soldiers that combines a yeshiva program with military service. During one of his terms in yeshiva, he fell in love with a male student and sought help from him and a rabbi. Yeshai was sent to conversion therapy to try to convince him that he was not gay. When he realized his homosexuality was not a mental illness, Yeshai stopped the conversion treatments and became less observant. Yeshai came out at the age of 25, discovered the religious LGBT community, and has slowly returned to Judaism. Micha and Yeshai met at a Shoval training seminar and have been inseparable ever since. As a transgender-gay couple, they cannot legally marry in Israel.
WHC Journal – March 2019 | Page 19
Life Cycle Congratulations to… Rick & Eileen Feldman, on the marriage of their daughter, Amanda Isadora Feldman, to Ross Kelley, the son of Debbie & George Kelley. Amanda is also the daughter of Marie Feldman. Peggy & Douglas Letter, on the birth of their grandson, Jackson Harvey Miller; and to Jackson’s parents, Debbie & Jason Miller; paternal grandparents, Beth & Rob Miller; and great-grandmothers Edith Pollner and Mary Pace. Tracy & Bruce Ochsman, on the birth and naming of their grandson, Harris Sebastian Heiberger (Shlomo Eliezar), and to Harris’ parents, January & Andrew Heiberger, paternal grandparents, Marilyn & Howard Heiberger, and greatgrandfather, Bernard Kolker. Dana & Michael Rocks, on the birth and naming of their son, Vincent Ralph Rocks (Gabriel Raphael); and to Vincent’s big brother, Harrison; grandparents, Beth Ourisman Glassman & Jim Glassman, Nicholas Rocks, and Dr. Roberta Weiss & Dr. James Edelstein; and great-grandmother, Betty Joan Kogod Burr. Margery Shrinsky and Jason & Ronnie Shrinsky, on the Bar Mitzvah of their grandson, Abe Ezra, and to Abe’s parents, Stacy & Scott Ezra. Nancy Ross & Rick Simon, on the engagement of their son, Josh Simon, to Brandon Heishman. Josh is the grandson of Arthur “Skip” Ross.
Our Sincerest Condolences… Stephen Bruce Berman, stepson of Barbara Alk Berman; father of Jeremy Berman (Aurora) and Kerry Berman (Nicole); brother of Eve Berman, Leslie Berman, Claudia Berman (Dan), Mitchel Berman, and the late Geoffrey Deitz. Bella Guggenheim, mother of Herb Guggenheim (Leslie). Richard Lodish, husband of Erica Lodish; father of Maya Lodish; grandfather of Talia & Isabelle Zimmerman. Donald Mathison, husband of Sandra L. Feldman; father of Nicole Frankenberg (Ed), Jason Mathison (Nicole), Marc Feldman (Marla), and Jodi Renert (Justin); brother of Stuart Mathison (June); grandfather of eight. Michael Rosenstock, husband of Cynthia Rosenstock; father of Zachary Rosenstock; brother of Matt Rosenstock (Summer) and Jodi Rosenstock. Dr. Burton Schonfeld, husband of Gail Schonfeld; father of Sophia Schonfeld, Ariel Schonfeld, and the late Marisa Schonfeld. Selma Sitrick, wife of Joseph Sitrick; mother of Don Schepps (Sue), Jon Schepps (Carol), and Diane Leiber; stepmother of Bobby Sitrick (Mary Beth), Claudia Mitchell, and Debbie Claxton; step-grandmother of Emma and Olivia Sitrick; and grandmother of seven.
…may their memory be a blessing. Page 20 | WHC Journal – March 2019
In March …
WHC Programs & Events (continued from page 15) Lifelong Learning
Lifelong Learning
Alfred Moses to Discuss “Bucharest Diary”
12 Jewish Questions
Organized by the Women of WHC Friday, March 1, 10:00 am at JBSC
A (Re)Introduction to Adult-Level Judaism Mondays, beginning March 11, 7:00 pm at Temple
Alfred Moses, U.S. ambassador to Romania during the Clinton administration, will discuss his memoir, Bucharest Diary: An American Ambassador’s Journey. Having served as ambassador just a few years after the fall of the Berlin Wall, Moses has firsthand stories and colorful anecdotes of the diplomatic efforts he employed to help Romania recover from four decades of communist rule and, eventually, become a member of both NATO and the European Union. RSVP preferred (free): whctemple.org/WomenofWHC Mara Brick: mgbrickslp@gmail.com
Amram Scholar Series Presents: Steven R. Weisman “The Chosen Wars: How Judaism Became an American Religion” Sunday, March 3, 10:30 am at Temple
In The Chosen Wars: How Judaism Became an American Religion, journalist Steven R. Weisman tells the dramatic story of how Judaism redefined itself in America in the 18th and 19th centuries and of the forceful personalities that shaped its evolution. Beginning with the arrival of the first Jews in New Amsterdam, Weisman examines how Judaism enhanced America and how America inspired Judaism. Along the way, we meet colorful rabbis and activists who ultimately define American Judaism and its division into the Reform, Conservative, and Orthodox movements that continue today. RSVP preferred (free): whctemple.org/Amram Layne Weiss: lweiss@whctemple.org, 202-895-6307
WHC Academy: Script 1: The Haggadah
Mondays from March 4 – March 25, 7:00 pm at Temple
American Judaism has published more Haggadot than any other type of Jewish text. Why the need to write, adapt, and re-write? What does this text tell us about the communities who wrote them? What does this text tell us about us, the Jews who sit every year and recite these words? As we prepare for the celebration of Passover, this class will look at different types of Haggadot and other Passover rituals that have been added along the way.
What do I believe about God? Where is God in times of tragedy? What happens after I die? (Re)discover Judaism from an adult perspective with this 12-week learning community.
RSVP required ($): whctemple.org/12JQ Marsha Humphries: mhumphries@whctemple.org, 202-895-6303
Attorneys’ Study Group
Wednesday, March 20, 7:00 pm at Temple
Discover Jewish insights into the Anglo-American legal system with WHC’s study group for attorneys. The Attorneys’ Study Group will delve into topics such as the relationship between constitutional and Jewish law to shed light on the role Jewish attorneys have played in establishing the rule of law.
RSVP required ($): whctemple.org/Attorneys Marsha Humphries: mhumphries@whctemple.org, 202-895-6303
Amram Scholar Series Presents: Tal Keinan “God Is in the Crowd: Twenty-First-Century Judaism” Sunday, March 31, 10:30 am at Temple
Tal Keinan, an American-born former Israeli fighter pilot who went on to build a highly successful career as a financier in New York and Tel Aviv, will address the alarming decrease in the numbers of Jews worldwide in God Is in the Crowd: Twenty-First-Century Judaism, which is also the title of his new book. Through the prism of his own dramatic personal story and the lessons learned in his profession, Keinan will investigate the core values of Judaism and how the collective intelligence of the Jewish people can be harnessed to endow Judaism with new purpose and save it from extinction. RSVP preferred (free): whctemple.org/Amram Layne Weiss: lweiss@whctemple.org, 202-895-6307
Continued on page 24.
RSVP required ($): whctemple.org/WHCAcademy Marsha Humphries: mhumphries@whctemple.org, 202-895-6303
“If All the Seas Were Ink” by Ilana Kurshan Organized by WHC Books Tuesday, March 5, 7:00 pm at Temple
On the surface, this award-winning memoir is the story of how the author recovered from her divorce through daf yomi — the daily practice of studying the Talmud — which took her more than seven years to complete. But it is so much more. It’s a story of a woman’s journey and struggles, the wisdom of Talmudic literature, and the affect studying Jewish text has on one’s life. RSVP preferred (free): whctemple.org/WHCBooks Ellen Share: eshare@whctemple.org, 301-325-3212
BRAWS: Bringing Resources to Aid Women’s Shelters MITZVAH DAY COLLECTION Now through Sunday, April 7 Bras, underwear, and feminine hygiene supplies are some of the most requested critical needs by women in shelters. Visit our Amazon Wish List and make a purchase to help this important cause. Find it online at: whctemple.org/MitzvahDay WHC Journal – March 2019 | Page 21
Contributions
We gratefully acknowledge the following contributions, received through January 31. To make a contribution to any of Washington Hebrew Congregation’s funds, please visit whctemple.org/donate. H. Max & Jodie and Stephen Ammerman Interfaith Fund
Donor In Honor of: Andrew R. Ammerman Merle Pelaez’ Birthday Tracy Nadel’s Birthday Donor In Memory of: Andrew R. Ammerman Stephen C. Ammerman Esther Foer’s Mother Oreon Strusinski Kira & Craig Collin Josephine Ammerman & Dorothy Woolf
Amram Sunday Scholar Series Endowment Fund
Donor In Memory of: Dr. Seymour Perlin & Ruth R. Perlin Samuel Perlin
Lillian & Alfred Bennett Fine Arts Endowment Fund
Donor Yvette Kraft
In Memory of: Bruce Kraft
Julia & Jack Bindeman Fund
Donor In Memory of: Stuart L. Bindeman Sarah, Ben & William Bindeman
Florence & Norman Brody Archives Endowment Fund
Donor Beverly Baker
In Memory of: Anna Brody
Jane Burka Sisterhood Leadership Fund
Donor Kathy & Jody Dreyfuss Jane, Eric, Erin & Jack Flior Elaine Goldstein Ellen Miller & Bob Kelly
In Memory of: Joseph Dreyfuss Max Blume Muriel Dreyfuss Stella Steinthal Captain Arthur N. Flior Robert Goldstein Max Zweig
Dr. Edward A. & Mildred B. Cafritz Prayer Book Fund
Donor In Honor of: Karen & David Cantor The Adult Bar Mitzvah of Dr. Marvin Menick Donor In Memory of: Morria B. Zwetchkenbaum Rose Yeager Basseches
Cantorial & Concert Fund
Donor In Honor of: Beverly Rosenblatt Marcia Hahn’s Speedy Recovery Michael Stein’s Speedy Recovery Donor In Memory of: Susan & Alan Gold William Greenwald Ann Joseph George Joseph R. Daniel & Dr. Jill Ladd Lester S. Jayson Arthur & Tina Lazerow Linda Schwartz Rosenblum Phyllis Meyers Naomi Oshinsky Dr. & Mrs. Edward Mopsik Esther Mopsik Barbara F. Polansky Michael S. Polansky Marjorie N. Weingold Allan B. Weingold, M.D. Marilyn Wessler Dr. Stanley Schwartz
EmptyNesters Fund
Donor Joan & Stanley Adoff Tina & Arthur Lazerow
In Memory of: Amy Neuman Foy Bessie Adoff Meriam G. Shapiro
Lois & Richard England Special Needs Endowment Fund
Donor In Memory of: The Zacks/Gildenhorn Family Carol Sue Pailet Zacks
Page 22 | WHC Journal – March 2019
General Fund
Donor Lauren & Eric Lieberman Donor In Honor of: David & Sherry Berz Carole Nannes’ Birthday Marsha Pinson’s Birthday Pauline Calomiris The Lawrence Miller Family B’nei Mitzvah Irene Lehne & Ross Cohen Rabbi Aaron Miller Debbie & E.J. Corwin Bar Mitzvah of Jonathan Tyler Corwin Jamie & David Dorros Bat Mitzvah of Sophie Rose Dorros Shari Yost Gold & Jason Gold Bat Mitzvah of Isley Helen Gold Kimberly & Mitchell Goldsteen Bat Mitzvah of Samantha Ryann Goldsteen John & Nancy Harris Karen Cantor’s Special Birthday Robert & Judy (Huilan) Hollander Bar Mitzvah of Robert Brian Hollander Stacy & Seth King Bat Mitzvah of Sophia Riley King Susie & Andrew Lazerow Bat Mitzvah of Bea Myerberg Lazerow Leonard J. Lefkort Dr. Joan K. Rosenbach James & Alvina Leder Bar Mitzvah of Levi Leder Nancy Kadowitz & Andrew Lewis Bar Mitzvah of Asher Jacob Lewis Patricia Keren Manning Iris & Larry Miller and the B’nei Mitzvah of Their Grandchildren Susan Schwartz Bar Mitzvah of Ryan Jordan Schwartz Jeff & Elana Steinberg Bat Mitzvah of Sydnie Morgan Steinberg Jeremy & Hannah White Bat Mitzvah of Jordyn Melissa White Drs. Naomi & Lester Zuckerman Bat Mitzvah of Shara Grace Zuckerman Donor In Memory of: Michael Backenheimer Henry Backenheimer Wendy & Robert Banner Donald Brenner Susan Beck Selma Kessler Eliezer & Miriam Benbassat Ameli Benbassat David Berler Harry Berler Mrs. Michele Berman Loretta Gelayder Dr. & Mrs. F. Norman Berry & Family Dr. Joshua J. Berry Dr. & Mrs. F. Norman Berry Rose B. Chayes Marcia Billig Jennie Fitterman Marjorie & Harold Bingham Marietta L. Bingham Beverly & Bruce Birchman Ronald Birchman Jackie & Ken Blank Phil Blank Shirlee & William Blanken Melvin D. Schecter James & Daphne Bloomberg Daphne Dzwonkowski Tressa & Lynn Borkon Benjamin Mark Borkon Harvey Cherner Anne Cherner Michele F. Crown Sophia Crown John Decker Elaine Decker Rosensweig Janet K. DeCosta Morton Rosenbloom Barbara Dubit Mary Hartman Frank Herbert S. & Sandra J. Ezrin Helen Servator Carol Fischer Richard Barr Linda & Jay Freedman Pauline Newman Sylvan Gershowitz Esther Gershowitz Mr. & Mrs. Roger M. Golden Daniel L. Golden Linda & William Goldman Manuel D. Goldman Lillian S. Alberts Sandra Goldstein Leon L. Douglas Sonya L. Gordon Michael S. Gordon Maxwell Livshin Jean Livshin Jonathan Greenblatt & Linda Adams Ruth Jacobsohn Herman Greenblatt Nancy & John Harris Sarah M. Rosenthal Florence & Peter Hart Sarah Rubenstein Norma Rubenstein Mildred Meisels Ruth Arnstein Hart Erma Arnstein
General Fund
Donor In Memory of: Dolores Karp Joel J. Karp Nancy & David Katz Irene Plummer Norton Katz Raymond H. Katz Kathleen Kaufman Sophia Fleischer Dr. & Mrs. Richard Kaufman Philip Kaufman David & Susan Kentoff Jacob Kentoff Dr. S. Kalman Kolansky & Ellen Kolansky Stephanie A. Reinhardt Ann & Bruce S. Lane Isobelle J. Steinberg Bill & Marilyn Lane Burt Lane Ann Lane Isobelle J. Steinberg Gail Martin Fanny Martin Jay & Dorothy Martin Fanny Martin Thomas Lee Nordlinger Marion N. Katz Charlotte Pearlman & Sandra Pearlman Ira W. Pearlman Mr. & Mrs. Kinsey S. Reagan & Family Harriet Beckman Mr. Harry L. Beckman Rachel, Orli, Heidi & Stephanie Robinson Irvine Robinson Skip Ross Frances Ross Nancy Roth Harry Roth Mark, Lynne, Adam & Evan Schaffer Jennie Schaffer Wilma & Harold Schneiberg Louis Dinowitz Robert Schott Bella Berman Pepper Caro Schwartz David H. Schwartz Mr. John D. Shulman Stephen Shulman Sandra S. Shulman Stephen Shulman Gail K. Siegel Judith Jacobs Ellen & Gerald Sigal Noah Sigal Phyllis & Hy Slavin Claire Eisner Fred & Lauren Sternburg Max Zweig Marilyn & Hal Weiner Harry Mazur Roslyn Wolf Al Diamond WWHC’s Mah Jongg Group Benjamin Posin Michael Yahuda Doris & Benjamin Yahuda
Leo & Elizabeth Goodman Public Issues Endowment Fund
Donor Joan Churchill Donor Joan Churchill
In Honor of: Danielle Churchill’s Birthday and Graduation From UC/Boulder Morris Goodman’s Birthday Dustin Churchill’s Birthday In Memory of: Louis Miller Marko Moscovitch
Carol Kellner ECC Memorial Fund
Donor Rabbi Aaron Miller Donor In Memory of: Wendy & Jeff Cossman Marilyn Barclay Bruce Kellner & Donna Lane Judy Scherr Mintz Jil Levick & Alisa Liebowitz Marilyn Barclay Mr. & Mrs. Marvin Mermelstein Sadie Mermelstein The Saffan Family Sophie Saffan Candace Sahm Anne Lee Wortman Sahm Traci K. Solovey Barnet Kirshtein
Rose E. Koenig Religious School Fund
Donor Devora Rosen
Kol Rinah Fund
Donor Dr. Anita O. Solomon Murray R. Stein
In Memory of: Nathan Rosen
In Memory of: Gladys Sorentrue Elizabeth B. Stein
Harriet M. Kriesberg Fund for the Study of Torah
Donor Simeon Kriesberg
In Memory of: Marlene Tanzer
Contributions Lebbin Family Burial Assistance Fund
Donor In Honor of: Kit, Adam, Cindy, Noah, Gary, Jennifer Levine Cantor Susan Bortnick Donor In Memory of: Kit, Adam, Cindy, Noah, Gary, Jennifer Levine Joseph Levine
Library Fund
Donor In Honor of: Naomi Adelman Marsha Pinson’s Special Birthday Donor In Memory of: Susan Kay, Judith Brill & David Brill Dr. Warren Brill Wendy Cimmet Leon Markson Steven Fischer & Linda Adler Alan Fishman Selma Philipson Bruce Philipson Francine & Steve Seltzer Irving Arthhur Nancy J. Wartow Michael W. Edwards Horace Hart Shirley S. Aaron
Rabbi M. Bruce Lustig Scholarship Fund
Donor Linda & Al Neuman Ava & Allen Zweig
In Honor of: Mohan Mistry Madge Novel Layne Weiss Cantor Mikhail Manevich Rabbi M. Bruce Lustig Bruce Winston
Zena Mason Educational Fund Donor Gary & Laura Siegel
In Memory of: Drew Siegel
Mitzvah Day Fund
Donor In Memory of: RobBee & Josh Fredricks William Fischer Adam & Abbe Gross’ mother Betsy Grossman Susan Samuels Sol Aleskow Barbara Epstein Stanely Macklin Patricia Sarlin Klewans Max Zweig
Stephanie Morris Prime Timers Programming Fund
Donor Gail Brenner Adrienne S. Elman Suzy & Al Morris
In Memory of: Prof. Donald R. Brenner Stanley Alfred Elman Jean Morris Stephanie Morris
Kamy Loren Nathanson Bar & Bat Mitzvah Kiddush Cup Endowment Fund
Donor In Memory of: Steven Fischer & Linda Adler Hilda Schwartz Fischer Victor E. Adler
Albert & Scott Pelmoter Youth Scholarship Fund
Donor In Memory of: Elaine Rosenblum & Charles Mendels William Landis Sharon Seidel & Steve Moss Linda Schwartz Rosenthal
Sheldon & Judy Sadugor Memorial Fund of the ECC
Donor Dahn & Michael Burke
In Memory of: Evan Farkas
Abe & Sylvia Shrinsky Creative Worship Program Fund
Donor In Honor of: Margery Shrinsky Bar Mitzvah of Abraham Zachary Ezra
Abe & Sylvia Shrinsky Creative Worship Program Fund
Donor In Memory of: Faith & Jim Kirk Ida Weinstein Sylvia Shrinsky Margery Shrinsky & Family Sylvia Shrinsky & Ida Weinstein
Carlynn & Larry Silverman Family Endowment for Jewish Life & Learning
Donor The Bobb Family
In Memory of: Stanley H. Bobb
Abram Simon Elementary School Fund Donor Lois & Jay Copeland
In Memory of: David Michael Copeland
Carrie Simon House
Donor Mary Ellen Simon Donor Michael & Della Budow Jessica Dolleck Betty Glassman
In Memory of: Sidney Budow Ruth Milestone Berk Stanley H. Bobb
C. Haskell & Ruth Behrend Small Music Fund
Donor Sherry Sundick
In Memory of: Sara Behrend
Tikkun Olam Values (TOV) Fund
Donor Mary Ellen Simon Donor In Honor of: Sanjay Kalra Rabbi M. Bruce Lustig Donor In Memory of: Alex & Liz Bresler Charles Bresler Cathy Kwart Lisa Gill’s sister, Carolyn Barbara S. Landow Jerome L. Bernstein Susan & David Rosenblum Sidney Teplin Monica & Rich Sussman Mark Carlin
Rabbi Joseph Weinberg Young Leadership Community Service Fund
Donor In Honor of: Lauren Baillie Dorianna Andrade’s Birthday Donor In Memory of: Marshall & Joan Cutler Golde Cutler Ruth & Barry Fishman Brian N. Fishman
Wender Memorial Archives Fund Donor Louis & Dorothy Kornhauser
In Memory of: Jacob Adler
WHC Hunger Project
Donor Jeff & Holly Bergman Donor In Memory of: David Muenzer & Melissa Schwartz Meryl Schwartz
Women of WHC Fund
Donor Louise Bittker Ronald & Jane Katz Linda & Ron Recht Pat & Bob Shapiro
In Memory of: Marilyn Barclay Max Zweig Max Zweig Max Zweig Max Zweig
Worship and Music Fund
Donor In Honor of: Iris & Larry Miller Cantor Mikhail Manevich Rabbi M. Bruce Lustig Gillian Kline Reiman & Scott Reiman Rabbi Susan Shankman Mark Director Rabbi Eliana Fischel Toby, Ury, Drew, Allison, Chelsea & Jeff Emsellem, and Larry & Karen Solomon Dan Caplan Donor In Memory of: Wendy & Jeff Cossman David Hanania Deana Rose Halperin Fredric J. Rose Odette Klein Herman Gilberta Klein Amy & Joe Musher Jay A. Rosen Heidi & Sandy Sinick Max Zweig Layne Weiss, Rachel & Ryan Davis, Brian, Ilyssa, Ethan & Halle Weiss Jack Schooler Ellen & Bruce Winston & Family Beverly Footer
Young Professionals (22-39) Fund Donor David & Lynn Pearle Donor Wendy & Jeff Cossman
In Honor of: Rabbi Aaron Miller In Memory of: Doris & Robert Greenberg
Ivy Zola’s Help-a-Friend Fund
Donor The Mildred & Ellis April Family Alison McWilliams Simor & Marjory Moskowitz Karen & Richard Perkins Joan & Norman Smith
In Memory of: Lillian Zoole Bessie Checker Luba Moskowitz Bob Silverman Jerry Coppel Julius H. Orleans Marilyn Barclay Max Zweig
Special Security Assessment In early February, we sent an email requesting your help to meet the budgetary challenges of additional security measures we have implemented since the Tree of Life Synagogue attack in Pittsburgh. These enhancements, recommended by WHC’s Security Committee — Temple leaders and individuals within the Temple community who have considerable experience in the security field — and approved by the Board of Directors, have resulted in significant unbudgeted expenses that far exceed our current security fees. The Temple Board has concluded that safety and fiscal prudence make it necessary to adopt a Special Security Assessment with a recommended amount of $150 per Fair Share family and $50 for Young members. If this represents an undue burden, you may select an alternate amount that is comfortable for you. If you have already responded to our email, thank you! If you still need to make your Special Security Assessment contribution, you can do so on our website, whctemple.org/SecurityAssessment, or by contacting Petra Tchouante, ptouchante@whctemple.org or 301-354-3218. WHC Journal – March 2019 | Page 23
In March …
WHC Programs & Events (continued from page 21) Former U.S. Ambassador
Alfred Moses
Author of Bucharest Diary
Opportunities for Adults to Engage
WHC’s Totally ‘80s Shabbat Purim
A “Totally Tubular” Purim Extravaganza for All Ages Friday, March 22 at Temple 6:00 pm Dinner 7:00 pm Service 8:00 pm After-Party!
Hear the real story of Purim over dinner before the WHC Totally ‘80s Shabbat Purim Service and After-Party. No young ears allowed — we spiked the punch! RSVP required for dinner only ($): whctemple.org/Purim Jonathan Honigman: jhonigman@whctemple.org, 301-354-3223
Families With Young Children Friday, March 1, 10:00 am at JBSC Presented by the Women of WHC Literary Group All are welcome, RSVP preferred: whctemple.org/WomenofWHC
Opportunities for Adults to Engage
Alfred Moses to Discuss “Bucharest Diary” Organized by the Women of WHC Friday, March 1, 10:00 am at JBSC
Alfred Moses, U.S. ambassador to Romania during the Clinton administration, will discuss his memoir, Bucharest Diary: An American Ambassador’s Journey. Having served as ambassador just a few years after the fall of the Berlin Wall, Moses has firsthand stories and colorful anecdotes of the diplomatic efforts he employed to help Romania recover from four decades of communist rule and, eventually, become a member of both NATO and the European Union.
Baskets & Brews
An Evening to Benefit the E-T ECC Saturday, March 2, 7:00 pm at Temple
Sip, bid, and dance the night away at this fabulously fun evening to support the Edlavitch-Tyser Early Childhood Center.
RSVP required ($): whctemple.org/Baskets DJ Jensen: djensen@whctemple.org, 301-354-3208
“I
‘80s” Purim Carnival & Arcade
Sunday, March 17, 12:00 pm at JBSC
This year’s Purim Carnival is a throwback to the great arcades of the 1980s. There’s something for everyone — traditional carnival games and prizes, arcade favorites, inflatables, magic, pizza, and hamantashen. Bring boxes of cereal or other non-perishable items for those in need and exchange them for free carnival tickets (one ticket per item, up to a maximum of five tickets). whctemple.org/Purim Ira Miller: imiller@whctemple.org, 301-354-3209
RSVP preferred (free): whctemple.org/WomenofWHC Mara Brick: mgbrickslp@gmail.com
Prime Timers’ Amram Lecture and Lunch Sunday, March 3, 10:30 am at Temple
Join us for our Amram Scholar Series featuring Steven Weisman, author of The Chosen Wars: How Judaism Became an American Religion, followed by lunch with your fellow Prime Timers.
RSVP required for lunch only ($): whctemple.org/PrimeTimers Marsha Humphries: mhumphries@whctemple.org, 202-895-6303
Potluck and Planning With The Boomers Sunday, March 10, 5:00 pm in Chevy Chase
Join the Boomers for their annual planning meeting and potluck. This is where we will decide on fun events for the upcoming year. Just bring a dish, your appetite, and your good ideas!
RSVP required (free): whctemple.org/Boomers Beth Donaldson: bdonaldson@whctemple.org, 202-895-6309
Theatre Outing with Join The Boomers for a trip to the Lansburgh Theatre in Washington, DC to see a matinee performance of:
“Oslo” Sunday, May 5 2:00 pm Lansburgh Theatre 450 7th St, NW Washington, D.C. Cost: $50 per person optional, self-pay dinner at Clyde’s to follow. Must RSVP by April 5
RSVP: whctemple.org/Boomers Page 24 | WHC Journal – March 2019
In March …
WHC Programs & Events Families With Young Children
MITZVAH DAY
WHC’s Totally ‘80s Shabbat Purim
A “Totally Tubular” Purim Extravaganza for All Ages Friday, March 22 at Temple 6:00 pm Dinner; 7:00 pm Service; 8:00 pm After-Party!
JEAN COLLECTION
for Children, Women, & Men
Omigosh guys! Persia and WHC are time-warping to the decade when boom boxes were big, and hair was, like, bigger. Find your neon everything, parachute pants, shoulder pads, and scrunchies, and get ready for a radical night!
Now through Sunday, April 7 Bins are available for your donations of new and gently used jeans.
RSVP required for dinner only ($):whctemple.org/Purim Jonathan Honigman: jhonigman@whctemple.org, 301-354-3223
Infant/Toddler CPR Training
All sizes (especially plus sizes) are needed.
Wednesday, March 27, 9:30 am at JBSC
Looking for ways to add to your parent toolbox? Invest in your family’s safety by learning the basics of Infant and Child CPR with American Heart Association instructor Jay Gruber.
Learn more and sign up to volunteer: whctemple.org/MitzvahDay
RSVP required ($): whctemple.org/ECCMD Kirstin Springer: kspringer@whctemple.org, 301-354-3208
Youth
L’Taken Social Justice Seminar
For Students in Our 2019 Confirmation Class Friday, March 1 – Monday, March 4 in Washington, DC
Are you ready to change the world? Then, get excited for the Bernard and Audre Rapoport L’Taken Social Justice Seminar. In partnership with the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism (RAC), you will have the opportunity to impact our political process as you share your views on social justice topics with decision-makers on Capitol Hill.
RSVP required ($): whctemple.org/Confirmation Marsha Humphries: mhumphries@whctemple.org, 202-895-6303
NFTY-MAR TheVent For Students in Grades 8 through 12 Friday, March 8 – Sunday, March 10 in Durham, NC
The most fun NFTY-MAR event of the year includes social action programming and a huge color war on Saturday night. Spend an amazing weekend connecting with 300 other teenagers from our region. RSVP required ($): whctemple.org/WHECTY Ira Miller: imiller@whctemple.org, 301-354-3209
Purim Carnival Prep For Students in Grades 8 through 12 Saturday, March 16, 5:00 pm at JBSC
Youth
“I
‘80s” Purim Carnival & Arcade
Sunday, March 17, 12:00 pm at JBSC
This year’s Purim Carnival is a throwback to the great arcades of the 1980s. There’s something for everyone — traditional carnival games and prizes, arcade favorites, inflatables, magic, pizza, and hamantashen. Bring boxes of cereal or other non-perishable items for those in need and exchange them for free carnival tickets (one ticket per item, up to a maximum of five tickets). whctemple.org/Purim Ira Miller: imiller@whctemple.org, 301-354-3209
WHC’s Totally ‘80s Shabbat Purim A “Totally Tubular” Purim Extravaganza for All Ages Friday, March 22 at Temple 6:00 pm Dinner; 7:00 pm Service; 8:00 pm After-Party!
Omigosh guys! Persia and WHC are time-warping to the decade when boom boxes were big, and hair was, like, bigger. Find your neon everything, parachute pants, shoulder pads, and scrunchies, and get ready for a radical night!
RSVP required for dinner only ($):whctemple.org/Purim Jonathan Honigman: jhonigman@whctemple.org, 301-354-3223
Join us as we get prepared for the Purim Carnival!
RSVP preferred (free): whctemple.org/WHECTY Ira Miller: imiller@whctemple.org, 301-354-3209
WHC Journal – March 2019 | Page 25
NON-PROFIT ORG US POSTAGE
PAID SUBURBAN, MD PERMIT NO. 4240
3935 Macomb Street NW Washington, DC 20016 202-362-7100 whctemple.org facebook.com/whctemple
WASHINGTON HEBREW CONGREGATION PRESENTS:
The Music of the Movies Starring:
CANTORS MIKHAIL MANEVICH AND SUSAN BORTNICK One Night Only: SUNDAY, MARCH 31, 3:00 pm
JULIA BINDEMAN SUBURBAN CENTER 11810 FALLS ROAD, POTOMAC, MARYLAND
Tickets:
$25 IN ADVANCE; $30 AT THE DOOR
ORDER ONLINE: whctemple.org/SpringConcert Sponsored by David Hirshfeld, in memory of his wife, Sonny Hirshfeld