Congregation Sinai Milwaukee Newsletter--November/December 2012

SINAI NEWS
Issue 12, Volume 1

A bi-monthly publication

November-December 2012 • Cheshvan-Tevet 5773
Hannah Halaska, Zoe Styler and Jordan Arenzon enjoy sufganiyot at the 2011 Latke Lunch.

In this issue
Rabbi’s Corner 2 Reflections, From the Cantor 3 Search Committee Lifelong Jewish Learning Women at Sinai Brotherhood 4-9 10 11 12 13 13-14 15 16 16-18 19 20-21 22 23 24 25 26-28

Join us December 9th!

Shabbat & Holiday Schedule
Shabbat Vayera Genesis 18:1 - 22:24 Nov 2 Shabbat Service 6:15 pm Nov 3 Torah Study 8 am Morning Minyan 9:30 am Shabbat Vayeshev Genesis 37:1 - 40:23 Dec 7 Shabbat Service 6:15 pm Dec 8 Torah Study 8 am Morning Minyan 9:30 am

Green Team Chesed Social Action Committee Israel Committee My Sinai “Scene” at Sinai What’s Happening Supporting Sinai November Calendar December Calendar In the Sinai Family Those We Remember Contributions

Shabbat Chayei Sara Genesis 23:1 - 25:18 Nov 9 Rockin’ Shabbat Service 6:15 pm Congregational Dinner 7:15 pm Nov 10 Torah Study 8 am Morning Minyan 9:30 am

Shabbat Miketz Genesis 41:1 - 44:17 Dec 14 Chanukah Shabbat Service 6:15 pm Dec 15 Torah Study 8 am Morning Minyan 9:30 am

Shabbat Toldot Genesis 25:19 - 28:9 Nov 16 Shabbat Service 6:15 pm Nov 17 Torah Study 8 am Morning Minyan 9:30 am

Shabbat Vayigash Genesis 44:18 - 47:27 Dec 21 Shabbat Service 6:15 pm Dec 22 Torah Study 8 am Morning Minyan 9:30 am

Shabbat Vayetzei Genesis 28:10 - 32:3 Nov 23 Shabbat Service 6:15 pm Nov 24 Torah Study 8 am Morning Minyan 9:30 am

Shabbat Vayechi Genesis 47:28 - 50:26 Dec 28 Shabbat Service 6:15 pm Dec 29 Torah Study 8 am Morning Minyan 9:30 am

Shabbat Vayishlach Genesis 32:4 - 36:43 Nov 30 Shabbat Service 6:15 pm Dec 1 Torah Study 8 am Morning Minyan 9:30 am

Rabbi David B. Cohen • Rabbi Emeritus Jay R. Brickman Director of Youth Education Barb Shimansky, MSW • Director of Administration Karen Lancina • Program Coordinator Jen Friedman Assistant to Rabbi Cohen Karen Hintz• School Administrator Jeri Danz • Bookkeeper Ilene Wasserman • Sinai News Nicole Sether Congregation Sinai • 8223 N. Port Washington Road• Fox Point, WI 53217 414.352.2970• 414.352.0944 (fax)• www.congregationsinai.org

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November-December 2012

Rabbi’s Corner
A Time for Every Experience Under Heaven: Embracing Sacred Aging
If I had a nickel for every time, over the years, someone was surprised to learn my age (currently fifty two and holding steady), I’d be a very wealthy man. “But you look so young!” comes the incredulous response. “I’m lucky to have good genes,” I reply modestly. Were I more truthful, I’d share the irony that my young looks are, in fact, a liability as a rabbi, a vocation in which one is assumed to have hit one’s stride and gained wisdom in one’s seventies. Believe me, I am not complaining. I had grandparents who lived long, fulfilling lives. Yet, given what I have experienced with many Sinai’s families, I am fully aware that, as Mae West is said to have put it: “getting old is not for sissies.” We are all getting older. I was born at the tail end of the baby boom, a part of history’s largest demographic shift into older age. First with our parents and then for ourselves, we are confronting the challenge of aging and mortality, and addressing existential questions of the highest order. As Rabbi Richard Address writes: “Who am I? Why am I here?” These are questions that guide us – or haunt us – our entire lives. As we age, these questions take on new relevance, all the more so as we face the daunting challenges of our aging society. We are seeing the health of our parents decline. We are deferring retirement in a difficult economy. We are becoming caregivers for loved ones. We are struggling with our own issues of health and wellness. Where do we turn for guidance in navigating these uncharted waters? Where do we now seek meaning in our lives? Jewish tradition is a place to inquire and our Sinai community has begun to ask ourselves, in the midst of such a demographic shift, how can we best embrace these challenges and opportunities? The Chesed (loving kindness) Committee, chaired by Amy Newman, and with the help of Sally Moskol, are spearheading the process of assessing the needs, identifying the opportunities and meeting the challenges. You are invited to join us at Sinai Monday night, November 19th, at 7:15 pm. to talk, brainstorm, and identify issues, resources, and ways we can respond as a community. What might some of those responses look like? Here are some examples: · Inviting congregants with older relatives to contact Amy Newman or Sally Moskol to let us know about their loved ones’ situation and needs. While the Chesed Committee won’t be able to address every need, we will be able to direct families to resources within the wider community. · As an adjunct to the rabbi and cantor’s pastoral efforts, a Bikkur Kholim team to visit congregants who are limited in their ability to leave their homes or care facilities. · Finding ways to connect our older congregants to the younger generations. Some are blessed to have attentive family in town; others would enjoy meaningful interaction with other congregants. · Sponsor a support group for those caring for their older parents and relatives. · Creating opportunities to honor the wisdom and experience of our older congregants. · A series of book discussions led by Rabbi Cohen focusing on books like Daniel Boorstin’s The Discoverers, in which he addresses the invention of time and how humans created it to break free of being imprisoned by nature; or Mitch Albom’s wonderful recent allegory The Time Keeper (2012) in which he writes how we are the only creatures that “mark” time, fear is that we will run out of time, yet make concerted efforts to, as the Bible puts it, “…number our days that we may acquire a heart of wisdom”; and Heschel’s essay on “The Sabbath: Holiness in Time” that brings the particular Jewish approach to time into focus. · Finding ways to provide transportation to enable older members to attend Shabbat services. There are myriad ways we can meet the challenges and opportunities of growing older together. We are limited only by our imagination and willingness to help. Growing old is a sacred opportunity and each of us is positioned to realize “sacred aging”, that is, aging with a growing sense of meaning and purpose, for ourselves and for others. I hope you will join us in this sacred task. Rabbi David B. Cohen

Sacred Aging Meeting

Join us at Sinai Monday, November 19th, 7:15 PM
We’ll talk, brainstorm, and identify issues, resources and ways we can respond as a community.

November-December 2012

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Reflections
American higher education is in crisis. Students spend on the average of $100,000, far more for an advanced degree, and emerge, unable to find employment. My solution is to establish a college with a sharp division between occupational training and study of the liberal arts. By way of precedent, there are two examples that are suggested by historic Jewish experience. Our tradition teaches that in addition to the “Written Law”, the Five Books revealed to Moses, there was revealed at the same time an Oral Law, i.e. an authentic method of interpretation. The intellectual and political leaders in the traditional Jewish community were the rabbis, who interpreted the law to address contemporary circumstances. Rabbis in the early centuries were not paid for their services. They made a living as craftsmen: shoemakers, carpenters, doctors. My first visit to the Holy Land was in 1947, just prior to the establishment of a Jewish state. The economy was primitive. There were few academic positions for those with advanced degrees from European universities. As a consequence, world leaders in Jewish scholarship pursued their studies, published articles and books, on their own time. Like the rabbis of old, their livelihood was gained, in many instances, as craftsmen or trades people. In the institute of higher learning which I envision, one half of the students’ time will be spent preparing for a trade. In our High-tech society, many available positions now go unfulfilled for want of trained applicants. Occupational study, which will occupy two full years of training, will be limited to situations for which help is in demand. The balance of the student’s study time will be directed to study of the liberal arts, affording him or her the basic knowledge of: art, history, literature, science. Graduates will possess prerequisites essential both to gaining a livelihood, and being enlightened and responsible citizens of a world community. Rabbi Jay R. Brickman

President’s Report-From the Cantor Search Committee
The President’s report this month comes from Rick Meyer, on behalf of the Cantor Search Committee in order to keep you informed. The search for a new Congregation Sinai cantor is officially underway. Rick Meyer and Jen Moglowsky are co-chairing the Search Committee comprised of thirteen (13) members representing all areas of Sinai (choir, young families, singles, founders, teachers, the musically and not so musically inclined, day school, etc.). It’s a great cross representation and there was engaged interaction and discussion at the first meeting held September 10th. As Congregation Sinai is known as a welcoming, energetic, caring, full service synagogue, with a well-deserved wonderful reputation, it is anticipated that many prospective cantors will seek us out. The charge to the committee determined by Congregation Sinai’s Board and Executive committee is to seek applicants among invested cantors who wish to be considered as full-time clergy and professional staff member at our synagogue. The American Association of Cantors (ACC), the official representative of cantors and placement organization within the Union of Reform Judaism (URJ) is partnering with us in this process. Reform as well as Conservative cantors are members of and use services of the ACC. Additionally, the committee is open to suggestions for any other resources that might provide assistance in this important search. At its first meeting, committee members brainstormed key values that the congregation seeks in a new cantor. Over fifty (50) characteristics were listed in eight (8) major categories. These characteristics will be prioritized and are part of the criteria which will serve as the basis for submission of a formal position application that will be filed with and used by the ACC with interested potential applicants. A timeline has been established with the goal of securing a new cantor this coming spring, someone who will begin his/her tenure during the early summer. As part of the process all finalists will be invited to the synagogue to perform a recital, visit with various congregational groups and leadership as well as hold a formal interview with the Search Committee. Final recommendations will be forwarded to the Board for action and approval. If congregational members have any questions, recommendations and or would like to participate during the recital process they are encouraged to contact Rick ([email protected]) or Jen ([email protected]). I’d like to thank the Search Committee for this report and their continued efforts. Marc Kartman President

November-December 2012

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Lifelong Jewish Learning
Adult Learning
Lunch and Learn Fridays with Rabbi Cohen
Every Friday at noon in the upstairs conference room. Rabbi Cohen takes the helm of our Torah study group that follows the weekly portion (in contrast with Saturday mornings, which each week get as far as they get, completing the full five books of Torah over seven years, approximately). Begin your Shabbat with some words of Torah!

Mark your calendars!

MCRC Shabbat Metropolitan Council of Reform Congregations Featuring Rabbi David Saperstein, Director of the Reform Movement's Religious Action Center (RAC)

Friday, February 15 at Congregation Sinai at 7:30 PM Selected by Newsweek magazine in 2009 as the most influential rabbi in the country and described in a Washington Post profile as the "quintessential religious lobbyist on Capitol Hill," Rabbi David Saperstein represents the Reform Jewish Movement to Congress and the Administration as the Director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism (RAC). A prolific writer and speaker, Rabbi Saperstein has appeared on a number of television news and talk shows including Oprah, Nightline, Lehrer News Hour, ABC's Sunday Morning, Crossfire, Hardball - and the O'Reilly Factor.

“This, I Believe” with Rabbi Cohen
Tuesday evenings, 7:30 – 9:00 pm – November 27, December 4, 11 and 18 In the mindset of Judaism, the matter of faith is, at best, multifaceted; at times, it can be confusing, even perplexing. Some say that in contrast to Christianity, which places a premium on the importance of faith over acts, Judaism is precisely the opposite – one’s actions are what matters, faith being an entirely private matter. Yet, this statement doesn’t do justice to either faith tradition. The question of faith in Judaism has been a constant companion throughout the ages, addressed by the rationalists, such as Maimonides in the 11 th century, as well as the mystics of the land of Israel in the 16th. All of them understood that Judaism commends us to forge a connection between belief and action, as each reinforces, builds up and strengthens each other. Join us for a survey of the variety of ways Jewish thinkers have addressed the matter of faith, as well as an exploration of where faith fits into your own Jewish Journey.

Parent Sunday Morning Series with Rabbi Cohen & Youth Ed Committee
10:00 AM-12:00 PM, Light breakfast served 9:30-10:00 AM Sunday, November 11, January 13, February 10, March 10, April 14. The Chairs of our Youth Education Committee want to hear from you at 10:00 AM to talk about school and youth programming. At 11:00 AM Rabbi Cohen will present a series of conversations on topics relating to Jewish parenting. Topics will include: How to talk to your children about God and spirituality; death; the problem of evil and the holocaust; love, intimacy and sex; who is a Jew – Jewish identity; interfaith dating, and others. Since the first step in preparing to discuss these topics with our children is figuring out how we think about them, this class is open and available to all; children not required!

Sunday Morning Current Events Series with Rabbi Cohen and Guests
Sundays, 10:00 am – 11:30 am November 18, January 20, March 17 (scholar-in-residence), April 7 In a rapidly moving and changing world, Judaism offers a compelling way of understanding the events around us. Join Rabbi Cohen in a series of conversations, the topics of which will be determined by the news of the day. From time to time, Rabbi Cohen will invite guests who have specific relevant expertise to share.

November-December 2012

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Lifelong Jewish Learning
Scholar-in-Residence
Save the weekend of March 15-17, 2013 for a series of special presentations by Noam Zion
Noam is a Senior Research Fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute in Jerusalem. His numerous publications include: A Different Night: The Family Participation Haggadah, "A Different Light: The Big Book of Hanukkah, A Day Apart: Shabbat at Home, Sipurei Reshit, a Hebrew anthology on contemporary readings of Genesis, and Halaila Hazeh, and the best selling A Night to Remember. Noam will be with us in the weeks before Passover and will undoubtedly tie his presentations to the holiday. We are sharing his visit with Congregation Beth Israel Ner– Tamid. Noam will be speaking at Sinai on Sunday, March, 15 at 10:00 am.

Ongoing Classes
Friday Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Cohen
Day: Fridays Time: 12:00pm With: Rabbi David B. Cohen

A Modern Rabbi's Approach to the Bible
Day: Wednesdays Time: 9:30 am With: Rabbi Jay Brickman

Seniors Havurah
Tuesday, November 27 All Seniors Havurah meet at 1:00 p.m. With: Rabbi David B. Cohen

Acheinu (Men’s Spirituality Group)
Share nosh & discuss spiritual & practical matters concerning God, work, family & more. Day: Sundays, 8:30-10 AM: 11/18, 12/9, 1/6 (following Pancake Breakfast), 2/10, 4/7, 5/5 With: Rabbi David B. Cohen & Joe Glassman

Shabbat Morning Torah Study
Verse by verse, line by line, word by word... Day: Saturdays at 8:00 am With: Rabbi Jay Brickman & Rabbi David B. Cohen

“Through the Eyes of Women” Women’s Ways of Reading the Bible
From traditional to modern including feminist readings & modern midrash Day: Fridays at 9:45 am With: Dr. Sherry Blumberg

School News
Teens!
CoSY is Cruising
Congregation Sinai's program for high school age youth, CoSY, provides fun youth programming for all 9th through 12th graders. CoSY is run by its members and is a part of NFTY, the North American Federation of Temple Youth, which plans events for Reform Jewish teens throughout North America. To learn more about NFTY, go to www.nfty.org* In addition, put the following upcoming events on your calendar: Winter Kallah: Dec. 21-23, Oconomowoc, WI JYG Kallah: March 1-3, Oconomowoc, WI Spring Kallah: April 4-7, St. Paul, MN Information about upcoming events will be sent directly to all teens and be posted on the Sinai web page. Seven CoSY members attended August's Summer Kallah at OSRUI and had a fantastic time. Don't miss out when the next Kallah comes around! If you are interested in learning more about CoSY, contact CoSY advisor, Julie Turetsky, (414) 899-5128. *region-NFTY North

11th & 12th Grade

Rabbi Rap
Sundays 12 – 1:30 pm November 18, December 16, March 17, April 7, May 12.

A new monthly program for 11th and 12th graders! Keep your Jewish soul nourished as we meet once a month with Rabbi Cohen for informal fun and interesting conversation. Topics we’ll address include: Ethics through modern music, rock – through Hip Hop; love, intimacy and sex; how to survive the college application process; why do bad things happen to good people?, and others.

November-December 2012

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Lifelong Jewish Learning
School News
Ask any Jewish kid what their favorite Jewish holiday is, and you are most likely to hear “Chanukah” as an answer. I have to admit, Chanukah is one of my favorite holidays as well. I love the idea that in the darkest part of the calendar year, we bring light into the world. We do this literally by lighting the Chanukiyah, and I particularly love the last night, when all the candles glow. I also like to look at this metaphorically – how can we, living within our Jewish values and ethics, bring more goodness (“light”) into the world? But generally, when you ask a child why he/she loves Chanukah, the answer will be “presents.” This is a constant battle for us as Jewish parents. Chanukah is not the “Jewish Christmas.” In fact, while small trinkets were traditionally part of Chanukah celebrations, presents did not become a prevalent feature of this festival until the early part of the 20th century, when new immigrants to the United States were trying to assimilate. In an effort to keep their own children on par with Christian children receiving Christmas gifts, Jewish parents began adopting the giftgiving practice into a holiday that fell at the same time of year – Chanukah. It is now so ingrained as part of our culture that it would be difficult to refrain from this practice now. However, there are ways in which we can shift the focus of gift-giving without getting rid of this custom altogether. Quite a few years ago, a movement began to encourage families to set aside the 6th night of Chanukah as a “Tzedakah Night.” My family has been doing this for many years. No one in our house receives gifts on the 6th night; instead, we discuss a cause or organization to which we would like to donate money, and we do that rather than spend roughly the equivalent amount of money on gifts. I won’t tell you that my children do not grumble about this – they do. But it also deepens their understanding that there are many in the world who do not even have access to basic needs, let alone toys or video games. And each year, I am pleasantly surprised by the decisions my children make – yours may surprise you, too! Another practice I adopted from the time my boys were each about two years old is the following: I set aside some time with each child to take him shopping for gifts for his brothers. During our shopping trip, the child is not allowed to look for anything for himself, and he needs to focus on finding gifts that his brothers would like – not that he might like for himself. This has also been a difficult but worthwhile lesson – they each learn to buy a gift based on what someone else’s likes and interests are, and to give in the spirit of thinking of the other person. One more practice that I think we may try to adopt this year is to talk about blessings each night. There are a couple of ways in which this could be done (and I have not yet determined which we will try!). You could pre-designate a “theme” for each night of Chanukah, and focus on blessings related to the theme of each day. Alternatively, you could have each family member talk about something they are thankful for each night, but there can be no repeats from night to night. In this way, just as with the increasing candles of the Chanukiyah, the acknowledgement of your family’s blessings will increase throughout the festival. Let me know if you decide to try this, and I will let you know how it goes in my house! But before we even get to Chanukah, I hope all of our school families are having fun with our “Tov Cheshvan” game! Keep doing all those Jewish activities throughout the Hebrew month of Cheshvan, which ends on November 14th. Bring your game boards (with any pictures attached!) back to Religious School on Sunday, November 18th. Everyone who plays will be acknowledged, and prizes will be awarded during our Chanukah Latke Lunch on December 9th. I’m looking forward to seeing you all there! Barb Shimansky, MSW Director of Youth Education

Substitute Teachers Needed!
Do you love to spend time with kids? Always thought you might like to teach, but don’t have the time to plan lessons, or perhaps do not have experience in the world of education? Have we got the perfect opportunity for you! We are always looking for great substitute teachers for our Religious School. If this is something you might be interested in, please contact Jeri Danz to get more information and/or to add your name to the sub list!

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November-December 2012

Lifelong Jewish Learning
School News

Attention 4th grade families!
Please plan to join us on

School Vacation Dates
November 20-25 Happy Thanksgiving! December 23 - January 3 Winter Break See you at the Pancake Breakfast on January 6th!

Sunday, November 4th
for our 4th grade Family Learning Program, “The Many Faces of My Jewish Family,” from 9:30 AM – 12 PM. See you there!

Learn about OSRUI Summer Camp!
On Sunday, December 2nd we will welcome Jerry Kaye, Director of the URJ Olin-Sang-Ruby Union Institute (OSRUI) to Congregation Sinai. Jerry will share information about this amazing Jewish summer camp opportunity in nearby Oconomowoc, WI. The presentation begins at 11:15 with our 3rd-6th grade students. Parents of children in these grades are welcome and encouraged to join us and learn about a fantastic summer experience for your child!

Annual Chanukah Latke Lunch
on Sunday, December 9th
right after Religious School!

All families are invited to attend the

Kivun News
Our new post-B’nei Mitzvah program, Kivun, kicked off on September 30th with a wonderful family learning program focused on ethics in social media usage. 10th graders have started their studies toward Affirmation with Rabbi Cohen, and 8th and 9th graders have been learning about Jewish identity with our newest Sinai staff member, Denelle Carriger. This is Denelle’s 26th year working in the field of Jewish education. Originally hailing from South Africa, Denelle has taught both there and in several communities in the United States. She recently moved to Milwaukee, and we are fortunate to have her teaching in both our Kivun and Mitkadem programs! Dates: November 4, 11, 18 & December 2, 16 at 12:00-1:30 PM *December 9th join us for the Latke Lunch!

Need something? Think of something? Email us!
Barb Shimansky, MSW, Director of Youth Education [email protected] Jeri Danz, School Administrator [email protected] Judy Flegel, Youth Ed Co-Chair [email protected] Marjorie Laing, Youth Ed Co-Chair [email protected] Jenni Goldbaum, Youth Ed Long-Range Planning Chair [email protected]

November-December 2012

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Lifelong Jewish Learning
Family Programming

Yum-Yum Latke Style! Join us for “Chanukah Around the World” Latke Lunch
Sample delicious foods from around the world (created by our very own congregants from their traditions and enjoy American Jewish staple foods too! Latkes and Sufganiot for all!)

All Thi ng Chanu s kah!

Sunday, December 9th 12:00-1:30 pm Congregation Sinai
● Craft Project ● 5th Annual Design-Your-Own Chanukiyah Contest ● Yummy Latke Lunch and Sufganiyot for Dessert! ● Bring your friends!
$10 adults/ $12 non-member adults $7 children 4-12/ $9 non-member children $5 adults 55 and up Children 3 and under FREE

Register by Thursday December 6th at http://latkelunch2012.eventbrite.com
Mitzvah Moment!
Bring a toy to contribute to the Tikun Ha-Ir Holiday gift collection for children and teens living in homeless shelters this holiday season.

Design-your-own Chanukiyah Contest:
Bring your Chanukiyah to Sinai on Sunday, December 9th, at the start of school to be displayed in the social hall. It must have 9 candle holders (one for each night of Chanukah and a shamash). It must be useable in some way and made by your family (one entry per family please)! All Chanukiyot will be judged by Rabbi Cohen and family prizes will be awarded to 1 st, 2nd, and 3rd place!

Ruby Balatovsky and the Buff Family-last year’s winner!

John, Zachary and Benjamin Yopps and Melissa Chudnow can’t wait for this year’s Latke Lunch!

Chanukah Continues for 7 more nights! Join us for Chanukah Shabbat on Friday December 14th at 6:15 pm followed by a sufganiyot Oneg! *Don’t forget to shop the Holiday Bazaar November 18 & December 2!

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November-December 2012

Lifelong Jewish Learning
Family Programming

Rockin' Shabbat and Roll into Dinner!
Friday, November 9th
6:15 pm: Rockin' Shabbat Service 7:15 pm: Congregational Dinner
Join us for Rockin' Shabbat filled with song and music. You won't want to miss this Shabbat experience. Great for all ages! Give those kids a snack before because following services we will Roll into Dinner for a delicious meal with activities for the kids. This will allow for a leisurely dinner for all. Feel free to bring a bottle of wine to share! Cost: Adults: $10.00 Children 12 and under: $7.00 Children 3 and under: Free RSVP by Monday, November 5th

http://novemberrockinshabbatanddinner2012.eventbrite.com

Family Programming and Worship Opportunities 2012-2013
November Friday 9 December Sunday 9 Friday 14 January Sunday 6 Friday 11 February Friday 8 Sunday 24 March Friday 8 April Friday 12 May Sunday 5 Friday 10 Sunday 19 6:15 PM Rockin’ Shabbat & Congregational Dinner 12:00 PM Design-Your-Own Chanukiyah Contest & Latke Lunch 6:15 PM Chanukah Shabbat Service 9:30 AM Pancake Breakfast 6:15 PM Rockin’ Shabbat & Congregational Dinner 5:30-6:00 PM Tot Shabbat w/ Wendy Cohen 9:30 AM Purim Carnival 6:15 PM Rockin’ Shabbat & Congregational Dinner 5:30-6:00 PM Tot Shabbat w/ Wendy Cohen 9:30 AM Taste of Sinai–breakfast & learn about programs, committees, school 6:15 PM Rockin’ Shabbat & Congregational Dinner 11:00 AM Year End Family Picnic Weekly Shabbat: We welcome everyone to experience Shabbat at Congregation Sinai. Family Friendly Friday Shabbat services are at 6:15 weekly. All Shabbat services last one hour. Tefillah Shira: All religious school Sunday mornings begin with a VERY family friendly 25 minute song and story filled service at 9:30 am. All ages are welcome to come experience this beautiful way to start the day.

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Women at Sinai B’rit Nashim Open Meeting!
B’rit Nashim means “Covenant of Women”. We are a group of women who meet one evening each month for programs of Jewish and personal content. We also have an annual Shabbat retreat. Our group, which started about 16 years ago, was designed to be a forum for women to gather to share common interests and to build a community of women within the larger community of Congregation Sinai. Each fall, B’rit Nashim is open to new members. We find that this is a great opportunity to get to know additional women, who bring wonderful new energy and input to our "covenant." We invite you to join us.

Mitbach Sinai (Sinai Cooks!)
Do you enjoy cooking for fun with friends? Come have a glass of wine with Sinai Cooks! During the course of the year we will gather in the Sinai kitchen to cook and bake for Sinai events and ourselves. We promise laughter, great conversation and friendship! Soon, we will be cooking for the Sinai Latke Lunch. Please look to your eNews for cooking dates and times. Looking forward to seeing many new faces! Have a great Sinai Cooks! Idea? Contact Jill Weinshel @ [email protected]

Come to our open meeting:

Monday, November 12 at 7:15 p.m.
For further information, please call Toby Colton at 351-5205 or Joanne Roberts at 351-6486.

Experience Nia
Your body & soul will thank you!
What is Nia? How does Nia help me connect to my Jewish identity? Nia is no ordinary fitness class. Nia technique blends Dance Arts, Martial Arts & Healing Arts. Discover ease, comfort and creativity in your body. Learn moves that are flowing, rhythmic and adaptable. Self-awareness plays a key role. Positively affect your whole life!

Sinai hosts KOACH
January 17, 2013
Helpers needed to serve lunch to our seniors. Interested in doing a Mitzvah? Contact Jen Friedman at [email protected]

Join others who find enormous personal benefit in weekly Nia classes.

Fridays 8:30-9:30am
Four classes for $36. There is a one month Grace Period to use up a package of four classes. Questions? Contact Kate Mann at 414-254-4141 or [email protected]

“Through the Eyes of Women” Women’s Ways of Reading the Bible
with Dr. Sherry Blumberg From traditional to modern including feminist readings and modern midrash Fridays at 9:45 am

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Brotherhood
The Brotherhood has had an exciting fall! From building the Sinai Sukkah and co-hosting the Sukkot BBQ we are off to a great start. Over 100 people attended the BBQ! Thanks to Mitbach Sinai and the Israel Committee and all the Brotherhood men who helped make this a terrific event! And there’s more! Join us for Brotherhood Coffees and Acheinu (men’s spirituality group). Meet people, make new friends, come and enjoy one of the speakers at a Brotherhood Coffee, work on one of our special projects, help build the Sukkah, play softball, play Bridge, or just feel good knowing that your dues have helped support the Sukkot BBQ, Purim Carnival, Affirmation, or B'nei Mitzvah celebrants. I look forward to meeting old and new friends and sharing Brotherhood experiences with all! Please contact me to learn more about Sinai Brotherhood. Sincerely, James Stillman Brotherhood [email protected]

Brotherhood Coffee:
Sunday, November 4, 2012
10:00 AM-12:00 PM “Political Decisions and Economic Consequences”
Business journalist, Avi Lank will challenge us with his spin on the impact of our political decisions on the economic state of our country. With the presidential election on November 6th this should be one event you don't miss!

Sunday, December 16, 2012
10:00 AM-12:00 PM “Kabbalah of the Soul”
Rabbi David Begoun, of the Milwaukee Kollel, returns to Sinai to continue his lectures on the "Kabbalah of the Soul", traditional Jewish perspectives on the afterlife.

Bill Ross, Jim Stillman, Alan Mendeloff, Michael Hool, Mike Weinshel, and Andy Gollin grill for the Sukkot BBQ. Check out those aprons!

Sinai Custodian Dick Kaeppal, Jim Salinsky, Terry Jacobs, Tedd Lookatch, Mitt Hwang, Jim Stillman, Josh and Noah Lookatch

Jenny Stonemeier samples the Sukkot BBQ cuisine from Bill Ross and Mike Lerner

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November-December 2012

Sinai Committees
The Green Team
Then God said, "Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds." And it was so. The land produced vegetation: plants bearing seed according to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. Genesis 1:11-12 The month of October saw the successful completion of three projects implemented by Sinai’s Green Committee: • The FOURTH annual Sukkah Garden project • The SECOND CSA Season • The FIRST Green Shabbat Our Sukkah Garden was once again totally fabulous! Under the very creative and skilled direction of Naomi Cobb, our garden’s fall harvest was bountiful and beautiful. I hope you all had the opportunity to spend some time in the Sukkah and were able to absorb the significance of celebrating the harvest festival while surrounded by our community’s very own harvest, as well as an array of art projects completed by our youth during both Sunday school and the Youth Program on Yom Kippur. A huge heartfelt thank you to Naomi Cobb for leading the charge on this project and to all the families and children that participated in planting, watering, weeding, growing, harvesting, and decorating. The planting beds are now asleep for the long winter and we look forward to bringing them back to life in the spring. Our second CSA season came to a close at the end of October. The season proved to be bountiful and delicious, as the Sinai shareholders enjoyed the great variety of crops produced by Steve and Andrea Levsen of Stoney Meadow Farm in Cascade, WI. We thank the Levsens for their extraordinary flexibility and kindness, and look forward to continuing our relationship with them next year. Lastly, Sinai celebrated it’s first GREEN SHABBAT on Friday evening October 5th. The evening began with a lovely Friday evening service in which Naomi Cobb and Rabbi Cohen presented a fun and informative d’var Torah on the relationship between Judaism and the environment: the why’s and how’s of protecting the earth were discussed. We then shared an amazing potluck dinner, in which participants were challenged to cook dishes using locally grown foods. Everyone there would agree it was one of the best potluck meals ever!! To conclude the evening, we headed over to the Schlitz Audubon Nature Center for a night hike in the woods. The evening program, all planned and implemented by Naomi Cobb, was so well received that it seems we have started yet another new tradition at Sinai. Look out for more Green Shabbat in the future! If you want to join the Sukkah Garden Project next year, become a CSA shareholder, or be a part of the Green Team at Sinai, please contact Deb Schermer at [email protected]. ‘Til next spring… Deb Schermer & Naomi Cobb The Green Team

Green Shabbat

Gathering from the Sukkah Garden

Sinai’s beautiful Sukkah!

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November-December 2012

Sinai Committees
Chesed
Sinai Chesed would like to thank all the children and volunteers from the Rosh Hashanah Youth Programming for making the warm, delicious soup for our Soup Delivery Program. Did you know? When Sinai is notified that a member has fallen ill or has an injury: We deliver soup to their home. This year, the High Holy Days Youth Programming theme was Chesed: A Caring Community. Chesed is defined as Acts of Loving Kindness. The children made beautiful cards for Chesed to send out when we deliver soup. The children discussed other ideas and ways we can show we care for those around us. Chesed connects to our members through phone calls, sending cards, delivering soup, volunteering to watch a family home during a funeral, emails to our college kids, and offering rides to seniors. There are so many different ways to help! And when you volunteer, you can decide how often and in what way most interests you. Again, many thanks to our Youth Programming for all of your time, help, and dedication to our members. We appreciate the hard work, care, and thoughtfulness. You truly made Sinai: A Caring Community

College Connection
Rabbi Cohen would like to stay connected to our college students via email. Please send your college student's email to Jeri Danz at [email protected]

Sacred Connections Sacred Aging
Chesed is in the beginning stage of making connections between some of our aging members with more active congregants. A letter, a phone call, or an update on activities and services will be appreciated. Let us know if you would like to help out.

To get involved in Chesed contact Amy Newman at [email protected] Social Action Committee
Social Action Volunteer Opportunities: We are looking for volunteers interested in participating in service projects on December 25th (Christmas Day). Many of the opportunities are suitable for families with young children. Some of the activities include making hospital visits, providing a meal and presents for clients of The Guest House, playing bingo with the residents of Bader Center, the Jewish Home and Care Center, and making a party for residents living in Milwaukee housing projects. If interested, contact Idy Goodman. Volunteer opportunities are also available for people interested in serving lunch at the Bethesda Church Meal Program, on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday afternoons - from 11:30-1:00. Please contact Idy Goodman, at [email protected], if you are interested in getting more information about any of these activities.

Tikun Ha-Ir Holiday Gift Collection

November & December:
Toys for children and teens living in homeless shelters during the holiday season.

Please drop off donations in the Sinai lobby.

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November-December 2012

Sinai Committees
The Social Action Film Series
Havdallah and a Movie: Miss Representation Saturday, November 17, 4:00-6:00 PM First seen at the Sundance film Festival in 2011, this documentary explores how the media’s misrepresentations of women have led to the underrepresentation of women in positions of power and influence. This film is especially important for pre-teen and teens and their families. Strangers No More Tuesday, January 15, 2013, 7:00 PM In co-sponsorship with Sinai’s Israel Committee, the Academy Award Winning Strangers No More is a documentary telling the story of an exceptional school where children form 48 different countries come together to learn.

Homeless: The Motel Kids of Orange County Tuesday, February 19, 7:00 PM This film explores the world of children who reside in discounted motels within walking distance of Disneyland, living in limbo as their families struggle to survive in one of the wealthiest regions of America.

Last Call at the Oasis Sunday, April 28, 7:00 PM LAST CALL AT THE OASIS presents a powerful argument for why the global water crisis will be the central issue facing our world this century.

Your contributions make a difference: Much of the financial support comes through the Sinai Tzedakah Fund. Please consider this fund when making your next contribution in honor or memory of someone.

November-December 2012

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Sinai Committees
Israel Committee
“Jewish women are united by faith and fate whether they live in Israel, or in the Diaspora. Nevertheless, the geographic distance between us is great and sometimes concerns and cultural differences can be large as well.” These are the words of Sharon Mann, who made aliyah to Israel 20 years ago and now lives in Nahariya, located eight miles from Lebanon’s border on the Mediterranean coast. Sharon is an active member of Emet VeShalom, our sistercongregation in Israel. Sharon Mann’s statement inspired me to join B’rit Nashim, a women’s group at Congregation Sinai. This year, I thought of the beautiful Erev Sukkot service led by the Women of B’rit Nashim and how emotionally liberating and inspiring it felt. And then I thought of Israel, as I usually do. The power of women is undeniable and exercised extensively in the United States, albeit the proverbial “glass ceiling”. Sometimes we even take it for granted. In Israel women serve in the army, and participate in the political, economic, and cultural life. The big exception is in the official Israeli religious life (orthodox), which places too many restrictions on women’s participation. Presently, Reform Judaism is fighting to be recognized as a legitimate state religion in Israel. This movement is carried out by URJ-affiliate ARZA, which is the single largest supporter of the Israel Movement for Progressive Judaism (IMPJ) and the Israel Religious Action Center (IRAC). ARZA promotes Reform Judaism values: freedom of religion, women rights, pluralism, and social justice. Let’s stand and support ARZA in this fight. Eti Ganin, Israel Committee Chair

Message from President Beth Loberant, Congregation Emet veShalom for the New Year
September 2012/ Elul 5772 Dear Friends, As we embark on the Jewish Year, 5773 it is once again my privilege and opportunity to write to you. At Emet ve’Shalom, 5772 has been an active year as we continue with community activities, prayer and celebration. As we close the circle from last Rosh Hashanah and review the highs and lows of our community life there is no doubt that welcoming Gilad Shalit back to his home in the Western Galilee was a high point of our year. We have visited the cemetery more than we would like; we have welcomed new friends and members in Israel and abroad and celebrated wonderful b’nei mitzvah and holidays. We continue to be very grateful for the rich community life we are privileged to share with one another as Jews in Israel. Our cup, in the worst of times, is half full. The Partnership and our connection to friends in communities abroad are very important to us. In the last year, we celebrated women's events that were shared with US communities. We also hosted visitors and look forward to seeing more in the coming year. We thank each of you for your visits, friendship, concern and continuing moral and financial support. The world financial crisis hasn’t bypassed Emet VeShalom. Here Emet VeShalom is active in the Nahariya community together with other non-profits to improve conditions for all of us in our area. Due to financial pressure we gave up our rented facility at 108 Weizman St. and we have had to reconsider the salaries of our professionals. As a result, our Rabbi, Israel Horowitz will be leaving us at the end of 2012. We will miss him and his wife Raquel, who as the rabbanit has given much to the community. I wish I could report that the challenges of life in Israel have diminished but our region continues to roil and foment and we all pray that solutions will be reached to avoid a conflagration. On behalf of Rabbi Israel Horowitz, coordinator Marcos Lion and the entire congregation of Emet VeShalom, I extend to you and yours our best wishes that all your endeavors in 5773 will be filled with health, prosperity, happiness, light and peace. Sincerely, Beth Loberant President, Congregation Emet veShalom

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November-December 2012

My Sinai
Skip Bid Bridge Club
Skip Bid, a duplicate bridge club has formed and is meeting at Congregation Sinai! Every Wednesday, beginning September 5, 2012 (except December 26) 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm $4.00 per person per week *partners are encouraged to arrive 15 minutes early Questions? Please call Judie or Fred Kommrusch at (414) 228-9538.

Sinai Outside
Sinai Outside is a multi-faceted group of Sinai members who celebrate the relationship we have with Nature and/or Shabbat through various outdoor activities. Interested in hiking, canoeing, snowshoeing, or exploring the outdoors? Do you have a great idea for connecting with nature? Let’s do it! Contact Bobbi Rector at [email protected]

“Scene” at Sinai Shofar blowing

November-December 2012

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“Scene” at Sinai High Holy Day Youth Programming

Yom Kippur

November-December 2012

Page 18

“Scene” at Sinai Sukkot

Simchat Torah

November-December 2012

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What’s Happening

The Sinai Holiday Gift Bazaar
We have all your Chanukah supplies & gifts too.

Chanukah is coming!

Sunday, November 18th & December 2nd
9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Cash or checks only

Attention Sinai Artisans & Merchants!
Come sell your gift wares at the Holiday Bazaar. Contact Karen Lancina at [email protected] by November 15th. Merchant fee: $25.00 for 1 week $40.00 for both weeks All merchants will receive an 8’x5’ table depending on needs.

Like us on Facebook!
Congregation Sinai has a facebook page! Stay connected to other Sinai members and get up to date information on events. Find us at www.facebook.com.

Sinai Shabbat Walks
Did you know that every Saturday after Shabbat services at Sinai there is a group that enjoys walking?
If you are interested in a Shabbat stroll for about an hour around the immediate neighborhood with Sinai friends we'd love for you to join us. For more information contact Randee Zitelman at [email protected]

Sinai Enews & Website
Stay informed about all the happenings at Congregation Sinai! Each week you should receive a Sinai Enews about the upcoming events at Sinai. Be sure to open and read your Sinai Enews. All kinds of exciting things are happening at Sinai and you won’t want to miss any of them! If you are not currently receiving the Enews, please email [email protected] or call Congregation Sinai at 414-352-2970 so we can update our distribution list. Also, visit our website at www.congregationsinai.org.

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November-December 2012

Supporting Sinai
t on’ t! D e g For

Shop

& Support Sinai!

Support Sinai whenever you shop on-line at amazon.com. Go to the Sinai homepage: www.congregationsinai.org. Click on the amazon.com banner. You’ll be linked directly to amazon.com by using the website link, your purchase will support Congregation Sinai. Bubbe says: It’s a win—win!

Welcome home my Shaina!
After all those years away from me in New York City (doing God knows what in that God forsaken place….the noise, the expense) my Shaina has finally come if t G p home to be with me. Why it took Sho this long, I can’t imagine! Shaina has the most fabulous taste…she was a buyer for Bloomingdales of course! And now she has agreed to run our beautiful Sinai gift shop. You can’t believe the new look! Such gorgeous mezuzahs, Shabbat candlesticks and jewelry! I’m telling you there is no better place to shop for that perfect piece of Judaica (as if you would go anywhere else knowing your purchase is a mitzvah at Congregation Sinai)! So come by and see what my Shaina has done! Oh, and if you know any nice boys…my Shaina is quite the catch! -Your Bubbe

Support Sinai While Shopping at SENDIK’S!
Now you can purchase your Scrip card at times that are convenient for YOU!

Purchase Scrip Cards on Sundays:

November 18 & December 2
Scrip cards can ALWAYS be purchased during regular Sinai office hours. What is Scrip? Scrip means “substitute money”. Through Sendik’s Food Market Scrip program 5% of what you pay for your Scrip card is donated to Sinai.

Questions? Contact: Leigh Maxon: [email protected]

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November-December 2012

Supporting Sinai

Advertise in the 2013 Sinai Directory
Whether your business is large or small….
Know of someone’s business that can benefit from advertising?
Your hairdresser? Your auto mechanic? Your lawn care service? Your pet sitter? Your cleaning service?

To advertise visit www.congregationsinai.org and download the advertising form. For more information, please contact Karen Lancina at [email protected]

1/2 page 4 1/2” x 3 3/4” $120.00 $145.00

Full page 4 1/2” x 7 1/2” $210.00 $260.00 (color)

1/4 page Vertical 2 1/2” x 3 3/4”

$75.00 $90.00 (color)

Or 1/4 page Horizontal 4 1/2” x 1 7/8”

1/3 page 4 1/2” x 2 1/2” $85.00 $105.00 (color)

Back Cover $300 ($350 color), Inside Front Cover $260 ($315 color), Inside Back Cover $220 ($260 color)

November 2012
M
O N U E E D R I H U
Mitkadem 4 pm Executive Committee Meeting 7 pm Nia 8:30 am Through the Eyes of Women 9:30 am Lunch & Learn w/ Rabbi Cohen 12:00 pm Social Action Committee Meeting 12:00 pm Shabbat Service 6:15 pm

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1

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Torah Study 8 am Morning Minyan 9:30 am Culture Connection (@ The Rep) 8 pm

3

Daylight Savings ends fall back 1 hour Teacher Staff Meeting 8:30 am Religious School (K-7th) 9:30 am 4th Grade Family Learning 9:30 am Brotherhood Coffee 10 am Kivun 12 pm Finance Committee Meeting 7:30 am Mitkadem 4 pm “Jesus for Jews” w/ Dr. Blumberg 7:30 pm Bible Study w/ Rabbi Brickman 9:30 am Skip Bid Bridge Club 12 pm Mitkadem 4 pm Mitkadem 4 pm B’nei Mitzvah Family Education Program #1 7 pm

4

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Nia 8:30 am Through the Eyes of Women 9:30 am Lunch & Learn w/ Rabbi Cohen 12 pm Rockin’ Shabbat 6:15 pm Congregational Dinner 7:15 pm

9

Torah Study 8 am Morning Minyan 9:30 am

10

Religious School (K-7th) 9:30 am Parent Breakfast 9:30 am Parent Sunday Morning Series 10 am Kivun 12 pm

11
Mitkadem 4 pm “Jesus for Jews” w/ Dr. Blumberg 7:30 pm Bible Study w/ Rabbi Brickman 9:30 am Skip Bid Bridge Club 12 pm Mitkadem 4 pm

Brit Nashim Open Meeting 7 pm

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Mitkadem 4 pm Board Meeting 7 pm

15

Nia 8:30 am Through the Eyes of Women 9:30 am Lunch & Learn w/ Rabbi Cohen 12 pm Shabbat Service 6:15 pm

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Torah Study 8 am Morning Minyan 9:30 am Social Action Movie & Havdalah 4 pm

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Acheinu (Men’s Spirituality) 8:30 am Religious School (K-7th) 9:30 am Holiday Bazaar 9:30 am Sunday Morning Current Events 10 am Kivun 12 pm

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No Mitkadem

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20

No Mitkadem Bible Study w/ Rabbi Brickman 9:30 am Skip Bid Bridge Club 12 pm

21

No Mitkadem Thanksgiving Office Closed

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Office Closed Shabbat Service 6:15 pm

23

Torah Study 8 am Morning Minyan 9:30 am

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No Religious School

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26

Seniors Havurah 1 pm Mitkadem 4 pm “This I Belive” w/ Rabbi Cohen 7:30 pm

27

Bible Study w/ Rabbi Brickman 9:30 am Skip Bid Bridge Club 12 pm Mitkadem 4 pm

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Mitkadem 4 pm

29

Nia 8:30 am Through the Eyes of Women 9:30 am Lunch & Learn w/ Rabbi Cohen 12 pm Shabbat Service 6:15 pm

30

Torah Study 8 am Morning Minyan 9:30 am

31

December 2012
M
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Torah Study 8 am Morning Minyan 9:30 am

1

Teacher Staff Meeting 8:30 am Religious School (K-7th) 9:30 am Holiday Bazaar 9:30 am Kivun 12 pm Finance Committee Meeting 7:30 am Mitkadem 4 pm “This I Belive” w/ Rabbi Cohen 7:30 pm Bible Study w/ Rabbi Brickman 9:30 am Skip Bid Bridge Club 12 pm Mitkadem 4 pm Mitkadem 4 pm Executive Committee Meeting 7 pm

2

3

4

5

6

Nia 8:30 am Through the Eyes of Women 9:30 am Lunch & Learn w/ Rabbi Cohen 12 pm Social Action Committee Meeting 12 pm Shabbat Service 6:15 pm

7

Erev Chanukah Torah Study 8 am Morning Minyan 9:30 am

8

Chanukah Acheinu (Men’s Spirituality) 8:30 am Religious School (K-7th) 9:30 am Parent Breakfast 9:30 am Parent Sunday Morning Series 10 am Design Your Own Chanukiyyah Contest & Latke Lunch 12 pm

9
Chanukah Mitkadem 4 pm “This I Belive” w/ Rabbi Cohen 7:30 pm Chanukah Bible Study w/ Rabbi Brickman 9:30 am Skip Bid Bridge Club 12 pm Mitkadem 4 pm

Chanukah Brit Nashim 7 pm

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11

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Chanukah Mitkadem 4 pm

13

Chanukah Nia 8:30 am Through the Eyes of Women 9:30 am Lunch & Learn w/ Rabbi Cohen 12 pm Chanukah Shabbat Service 6:15 pm

14

Chanukah Torah Study 8 am Morning Minyan 9:30 am

15

Chanukah Religious School (K-7th) 9:30 am Brotherhood Coffee 10 am Kivun 12 pm Rabbi Rap 12 pm

16
Mitkadem 4 pm “This I Belive” w/ Rabbi Cohen 7:30 pm

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18

Bible Study w/ Rabbi Brickman 9:30 am Skip Bid Bridge Club 12 pm

19

Mitkadem 4 pm Board Meeting 7 pm

20

Through the Eyes of Women 9:30 am Lunch & Learn w/ Rabbi Cohen 12 pm Shabbat Service 6:15 pm

21

Torah Study 8 am Morning Minyan 9:30 am

22

No Religious School Office Closed

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Office Closed

24

25

Bible Study w/ Rabbi Brickman 9:30 am

26

27

Through the Eyes of Women 9:30 am Shabbat Service 6:15 pm Builders & Founders deadline

28

Torah Study 8 am Morning Minyan 9:30 am

29

No Religious School Office Closed

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November-December 2012

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In the Sinai Family
Welcome New Members!
Joseph Aaron Susan Armour Seidman Sheldon Bankier Rhoda Baumgarten Andrea & Avi Bernstein Seth & Jori Broidy Eliot & Natalie Caplan Arthur & Shirley Cohen Leo & Elizabeth Eckman Bobbi Fishbein Lauren Fox Evelyn Garfinkel Ronna & David Goodman Michael & Barbie Grossman Robert & Kristen Hieb Eva & Fred Jacob Les & Leith Johnson Abigail Lank George Levin & Sheila Smith Sue LeVine & Kevin Mackey Roy & Carol Levison Brooke Litwack Ydelle Litwack Lucia Lozano & Daniel Musickant Robert & Donna Neubauer Gillian Rodger Ludmile Rosen Ramona Tenorio Carolyn & Albert Tzeel Phyllis Wiggins

Mazel Tov to:
Mazel Tov to our Consecrants: Sasha Bernstein, Jake Bernstein, Lena Essak, Molly FoxKincaid, Tess Fox-Kincaid, Jake Goodman, Zoe Kinstler, Ben Kramer, Max Kramer, Grace Laber, Ben Lichtenstein, Will Lichtenstein, Gabriela Musickant and Mara Tarnoff Rob Golub for passing the Wisconsin State Bar Exam and on his promotion to Managing Editor of The Journal Times, a daily newspaper in Racine, WI. Dr. Marc and Lori Jacobson on the engagement of their son Brian to Carly Farbman

Condolences to:
Hamakon Y’Nachem—May God Comfort
Nancy (John) Kennedy and John Meissner on the death of their mother, Gail Meissner

Sponsor an Oneg
If you are looking for a wonderful way to honor or remember someone, or recognize a special occasion, you can do so by sponsoring the flowers on the Bima or an Oneg Shabbat after a Friday night service. Congregation Sinai typically provides these items for Friday evenings when there is no Bar or Bat Mitzvah. Simply let us know that you would like to sponsor and we will create a beautiful flower arrangement or dessert table to recognize your occasion. All sponsorships will be acknowledged in the Sinai Shabbat Pamphlet and the Sinai News. We will also send a note of congratulations or thanks to the honorees. The cost of sponsoring Bima flowers is $60.00 and an Oneg Shabbat is $260.00. Email Jen Friedman at [email protected] or call (414) 352-2970.

Life Cycle Events
If you learn of any events - births, engagements, marriages, ordinations - that should be included in our “My Sinai” page, please notify the congregation office at [email protected] or by telephone (414) 352-2970. When there is a death in our immediate family, please notify the synagogue office, even if the funeral is out of town. The clergy and the Sinai community would like the opportunity to express sympathy for your loss.

Available Dates for Sponsorships:
November 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 December 7, 14, 21, 28

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November-December 2012

Those We Remember
November Yarhzeits
November 2, 2012 William Cobb Joan Frazer Lew Goldstein Dr. Bernard Horwitz Margaret “Peggy” Juda Helen Kimmel Abe Lipton Alice Quateman Samuel D. Saffro Carol Siegel-Zdatny Theodus Wiggins November 9, 2012 Margaret Beer Alan Bromley Bernice Cohen Ateret Cohn Lee Cherniack Bertha Goldberger Melvin Goldberger Golda Gutman Bertheld Hefter Marvin Heifetz John J. Higgins Madelain Julius Arthur Koven Norman Leib Marilyn L. Look Dorothy Lubotsky Harry Luck Edith Meyer Harold Nemson Lillian Peck Herbert Polacheck Kenneth Ross Ann Shafton Richard Teweles November 16, 2012 Saul Arbit Sarah Fleder Jean Heilbronner Joseph Hoffman Miriam Hool Mollie Lipshultz Mildred Levy Zelda Margolin Peter Pumpian Betty Schapiro Howard James Seesel Jr. Anna Sherman Alfred Shovers Edward Stillman Beverly Stix Cecilia Warschauer November 23, 2012 Dr. Louis Abels Eisenberg Helen Cook Morris Cutler Helen Fisher Shirley Glick Bessie Greenfield Nancy Hindin Carol Ikenn Herbert Kahn Joshua Kestelman Arnold Miller Lottie Neubauer Albert Ostermann William A. Padway Kisa Peskina Dorothy Pollak Harry Schwartz Lillian Schwartz Abraham Schwedelson Joann Weber Michael Weinberg Bessie Weiss Willie Weiss Richard Werner November 30, 2012 Loretta Cohn Ann Derengowski Ann Eckman Joseph Falk Bertha Feld Harry Hillman Samuel Lipshultz Janette Manheim Joanne Mendeloff Misaqi Mark Roth Julia E. Siegel Dr. John David Silbar Rita Teplin Irene Warschauer Ardis J. Zarem

December Yarhzeits
December 7, 2012 John Beer Jack Blutstein Dorothy Brickman Lena Brown Jacobs Ruth Diamond Goldmann Fred Feld Michael Fleysh Theodore Friedlander Sr. Mildred Glassman Duane Hill Judi Kahn Mae Miles Beatrice Muchin Lew Sangor Lillian Schwartz Nathan Shlimovitz Alan Shor Elayne Staller Marian Stark Sadie Stern December 14, 2012 Sidney Atinsky Allan Bein Aaron C. Cherniack David Cooper Rose Cooper Dr. David E. Davidoff Florence Frank Fannie Gershan Pauline Goldstein Herbert Honig Ian Ikenn Laurie Ikenn Barbara Kantor Kaplan Judith Kerns Pence Arthur Levin Laurence Luff Edwin “Ted” Ostermann Stanley M. Ottenstein Zelma Ottenstein Ethel Sedlet Dr. Alex Sigal Anders Solvang Delbert Wile December 21, 2012 Lawrence Ball Aaron Bram Eliezer (Hersch) Elath Toni Ettenheim Benjamin Fagan Anita Feld Silbar Harry Feldman Jack Freeman Arthur Goldstein Emanuel “Mannie” Hassel Bessie Kahn Fred Kahn Sylvia Katz Seidman Joan Prince Esther Soifer Bess Urich Ann Urkofsky Rabbi Cary David Yales December 28, 2012 Michael Bankier Jack Barnow Bee Brill Leo Diamond Manley Frisch Ruth Gordon Erich Gutman Julie Hirsh Barney Hool Anne Klein Max Laserson Manuel Padway Allen S. Rieselbach Roberta Rosenberg Bernard Schlossmann

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November-December 2012

Contributions
Donations received from 8/3/12-10/6/12 Adult Programming & Education Fund In memory of Harry Schopler Hana Albert Tzedakah Fund In memory of Kenneth Allschwang Shari & Allan Luck In memory of Elizabeth Lamb William Rickards & Marleen Pugach In honor of Dr. Jay Larkey’s 90th birthday Idy & Bill Goodman Stanley Jolton In memory of Esther Larkey Jay Larkey In memory of Edward Kapper Susan Engler & Jeff Teplin In memory of Gail Meissner Jeff & Ilene Wasserman In memory of Aaron James Carr Thomas Phyllis M. Wiggins Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund In appreciation for High Holidays Marv & Marlene Lauwasser In appreciation for kindness The Edward S. Kapper Family In memory of Hannah Auerbach In memory of Milton Auerbach Shirley Horowitz In honor of Margie Becker’s birthday Bettie & David Meltzer In memory of Andrew Cherniack Gerry Cherniack In memory of Sheldon Frank Jeff Frank & Family In memory of Louise Friedlander Jean Friedlander In memory of Esther Gliber Jody Kaufman Loewenstein & Paul Loewenstein In memory of Thomas E. Hassel In memory of Beverly Hassel-Manburg Toots Hassel In honor of Rabbi Cohen’s participation in Maya Goldbaum’s Bat Mitzvah Gordon & Jennifer Goldbaum In memory of Gertrude Kerns Pat & Joan Kerns In memory of Joseph Lubar Marianne & Sheldon Lubar In memory of Lottie Lubar Sheldon & Marianne Lubar Esther & Robert Sametz In memory of Jim Muchin Toots Hassel In memory of David Orenstein In memory of Ruth F. Orenstein Marlene & Bert Bilsky In memory of Ethel Primakow Francine Glusman In memory of Charlotte Rabenn Tom & Andi Rabenn In memory of Jonathan David Resek In memory of Michael Shapiro Donna Resek Ron & Beth Shapiro In memory of Sandra Rotter Robert Schlossmann In memory of Sara Shafton Barbara Shafton In memory of Leo Weiss Jean Friedlander Floral and Oneg Fund In memory of Dr. Abram Levine Joan Levine In memory of Anita Silbar In memory of Dr. John Silbar Dr. Muriel Silbar In memory of Florence Waxman The Waxman Family Chesed (Caring) Fund In honor of Audrie Berman & Mark Mendelson’s Marriage Dorothy & Al Meyers In memory of Carl Diamond Joni Diamond Ansfield & Family In memory of Robert Fishkin Pauline Zarne In memory of Edward Kapper Elyse & BJ Cohn & Family In memory of Racine Meyerowitz Dorothy & Al Meyers Music Fund In memory of Albert Cherniack Gerry Cherniack In memory of David Colburn Stephen Colburn & Marlee Sabo In honor of Stephen Colburn’s Beautiful High Holiday Music Joe Aaron Marv & Marlene Lauwasser In memory of Geneva Rife Jan Rosenberg & Marty Barnes In memory of Edward Rosenberg Marcia Cherniack In memory of Jeanette Rosenberg Jan Rosenberg In memory of Ida Rugowitz Harriet Weiss Jacob M. Fine & Family Library & Technology Fund In memory of Samuel Bender Rosalee & Herb Bratt In memory of Eleanor Goldberg In memory of Peter Goldberg Betsy, Jessica, & Shelly Goldberg In memory of Charlotte Schwartz Rosalee & Herb Bratt Janet Greenebaum Scholarship Fund In memory of Rachel Presley Janet Greenebaum In memory of Elaine Strauss Hana Albert Passport to Israel Fund In memory of Sherwin J Kader Rona & Gary Wolfe In memory of Ed Kapper Barbara, Ariel, David and Robby Friedlander In memory of James Jay Katz Mari Katz & Family

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November-December 2012

Contributions
In honor of Micki Peck’s 85th birthday Bede Segal Robert Grant Marks Youth Fund In memory of Jerome Marks In memory of Robert Grant Marks Brynn & Jerry Bloch In memory of Charles Wiggins Phyllis M. Wiggins Landscape Fund In memory of Mary Flesch Jim & Ellen Flesch In memory of Elise Kahn Dick Kahn In honor of Bill Schulhof’s 70th birthday Eileen & Howard Dubner John & Linda Lewenauer Jeffrey & Annette Nye Prayer Book Fund In memory of Louis Kaufman Jody Kaufman Loewenstein & Paul Loewenstein Lieberman Memorial Arts Fund In honor of Dr. Ellen Danto-Nocton Sally Kapper Moskol Rebecca Robins Youth Engagement Scholarship Fund In honor of Marc Cohen’s participation in Maya Goldbaum’s Bat Mitzvah Gordon & Jennifer Goldbaum New Sukkah Fund In honor of Ellen Flesch’s Wonderful Art Museum Tour Edith Gilman In honor of Josh Lookatch’s Bar Mitzvah The Falender Family Mike & Joan Friedman The Holman Family Jeanne Jacobs Dorothy & Al Meyers Dan Schnoll Laurie Segal Dick & Shelly Seesel Mike & Jill Weinshel Operating Fund In memory of Kenneth Allschwang Elyse & BJ Cohn & Family In memory of Larry Chudnow Marlene & Marv Lauwasser In memory of Ardell Eisenberg In memory of Gerald Kahn Rosalie Kahn In honor of Sharon Goldstein’s special birthday Marlene & Bob Watchmaker In honor of marriage of Dan Grunfeld and Samantha Simon Rosalie Kahn In memory of Morris Hackman Judy & Andy Shor In honor of Bill Schulhof’s 70th birthday Sylvia & Joel Fishman Barbara & Irving Kahn Rita Lewenauer In memory of Jeffrey C. Siegel Joan Lubar & family Madeleine, David, Hannah, Patrick, & Joe (z”l) Lubar In memory of Harold Stemmerman Joanne & Keith Roberts

Those making donations will receive recognition for their generosity in the Sinai News. Those honored or the family of someone remembered will receive notice in the mail from Congregation Sinai.

Over the summer, we were lucky to have Hannah Levy come in to the library to help process some of our new books. Ilene Wasserman, Sinai's wonderful bookkeeper, enabled us to get the collection of children's books from Congregation Beth El Ner Tamid when that congregation merged with Beth Israel. Many thanks to you both. Thank you, also to Eve DeToro, who helped me pack the books and move them over to Sinai's Library. Frequently, I come into the library and find books on the desk that a congregant has donated. I would like to thank all of you for thinking of our library. When I process and catalog these books, I am reminded that one of the beautiful aspects of books, is that they can be read and re-read. I was looking at Isaac Singer's short stories and saw his collection called Short Friday. That story may be one of my favorites of all time. I would encourage you to read this or come in and see the many other great books we have. We have a great selection in our library. Please use it as a resource whenever you need to. Please call if you need help finding things or if you would like to work in the library. I'd love to have you. Jayne Butlein

√ Check o ut Sinai’s libr ary

Congregation Sinai
8223 N. Port Washington Road, Fox Point, WI 53217
Member of the Union for Reform Judaism
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Board of Trustees, 2012-2013
Marc Kartman, President Craig Johnson, Vice President Andy Gollin, Vice President Tom St. John, Treasurer Sandy Saltzstein, Secretary Judi Ketten, Past President Marlene Lauwasser, Past President Patti Levy, Past President Dan Elias, Membership Judy Flegel, Youth Education Idy Goodman, Social Action Davida Amenta, Social Action Toots Hassel Hugh Hoffman, Finance Julie Lookatch, Women of Sinai Nick Padway Amy Newman, Chesed Jimmy Schulhof, Building & Grounds Mark Sweet Jill Weinshel, Celebrations

The form below may be used when submitting your donation. Those remembered will be promptly informed of your thoughtfulness. Please return form to the Sinai office. Please make checks payable to Congregation Sinai. Note: Suggested minimum donations is $10.00.

□Adult Programming & Education Fund □Andy Brickman Museum Fund □Barbara Eiseman Memorial Fund for Spiritual Growth □Cantor’s Discretionary Fund □Chesed (Caring) Fund □Congregation Sinai Endowment (@ the Jewish Community Foundation) □Congregation Sinai Operating Fund □Floral & Oneg Fund □Jacob M. Fine & Family Library & Technology Fund □Prayerbook Fund

□Landscape Fund □Lieberman Memorial Arts Fund □Miriam Miringoff Kitchen Fund □Music Fund □Passport to Israel Fund □Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund □Robert Grant Marks Youth Fund □Tzedakah Fund □Rebecca Robins Youth Engagement Scholarship Fund □Other_________________

Enclosed is a $________________ contribution

□In honor of □In memory of □Other
Send acknowledgement card to:

________________________________________________________ From: Name:___________________________________________ Address:_________________________________________ City:____________________ State:_____ Zip:__________ Phone:__________________________________________

Name:_______________________________________ Address:_____________________________________ City:___________________ State:_____ Zip:________

□

Do not include my contribution in the Sinai News.