April 2015 Volume 51 - Number 4 Nissan - Iyyar 5775

Building Community Since 1954

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page 19

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Reservation Deadline is Monday!

Bike With The Men’s Club

Sunday Afternoon Passover Schmooze

Heirloom Cooking Event

Everything You Wanted to

Know About Kosher, But

Were Too Afraid to Ask

And More Inside

We’ve Got Seats for

Spamalot! Limited number.

Reserve your seats at a discount today.

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Staff Rabbi ................................ Joshua Neely

Cong. Life Coord. ......Susan Bernstein

Youth Director ........... Eliana Gershon

Off. Admin. .. John-Patrick Alexander

Bookkeeper ................... Patricia Young

Executive

Committee President .........................Eric Hoffman

1st Vice Pres.. ................... Mark Kluger

VP Membership ........... Geanne Share

VP Education ................. Sharon Sachs

Comptroller ................. Michelle Bilsky

Secretary ........................... Mollie Savage

Sisterhood Pres. ......... Cathy Swerdlow

Men’s Club Co-Pres.. Wayne Bilsky & .................................................... Joe Ihns

Past Pres.................. Arlene van de Rijn

Trustees Nicki D'Amato

Lauren Brown

Kris Crane

Judi Chisdes

Sandra Eisenberg

Andrew Feinberg

Joe Ihns

Fabienne Kaplan

Michael Langman

Art Louv

Joni Okun

Harry Rein (Trustee Emeritus)

Fanny Sernik

Nancy Stern

Roz Weinstein

Standing

Committee Chairs Adult Education...... Michael Fineberg

Budget & Finance ....... Michelle Bilsky

Building & Grounds .............. Joe Ihns

Education - School ........ Sharon Sachs

Endowment ............ Andrew Feinberg

Ma’asim Tovim ..... Arlene van de Rijn

Marketing ..........................Larry Gutter

Membership ................... Geanne Share

Past Pres. Coun. .... Arlene van de Rijn

Ritual................................. Natan Brener

Ways & Means ........................................

Youth ................................. Nancy Stern

From Our Rabbi:

By Rabbi Joshua Neely

The implications of the Israeli election are still unfolding. Every-

one keeps wondering who won? Was it Likud and Netanyahu? Was it the

Haredim who are back in the coalition? Was it Iran who may exploit a public rift between

the leaders of Israel and the US?

Although I don't agree with much of his politics of theology in general,

Rabbi Aviner penned an excellent answer to the question “Who won the election.”

“The answer is simple: The Nation, because all of the political parties are good. They

all love the Nation of Israel. They all love the Land of Israel. They all love the State of Israel. And they

all love the spirit of Israel. But no one possesses all of the truth, all of the justice and all of the integ-

rity. Hashem, in His kindness for His Nation, spread the talents and good qualities among the entire

Nation of Israel and among all of the political parties. Everyone is required to find which party has the

most positives and the fewest negatives. No one can claim that his party has it all. And if someone thinks

that his party does have it all, he is dangerously close to “Sinat Chinam – baseless hatred.” “Sinat

Chinam” is hating for no reason. Then why does he hate? He hates anything which is different. It is for-

bidden to be different. “Everyone is obligated to be exactly like me. And anyone who is not exactly like

me is an enemy of the Nation.” Not true! We are all important. And I will remind you who established

the State of Israel – it was the Nation. And who was victorious in the War of Independence – it was the

Nation. And who was victorious in all of the wars – it was the Nation. And who built up the Land and

transformed it from desolation into a garden of Hashem – it was the Nation. And who absorbed all of the

exiles – it was the Nation. And who strengthened the economy- it was the Nation. And who returned

the Torah to the Land of Israel – it was the Nation. Everything was done by the entire Nation. Our

party is the Nation. If only we could establish one party of all of the Jews from one extreme to another! In

the meantime, it is not possible and there are different parties with different opinions. But do not forget: we

are one Nation and all of the parties must act with respect towards one another, with love towards one an-

other and with the recognition that we need one another. Then, we will have “Ahavat Chinam – baseless

love.” “Fortunate is the Nation for whom this is so” (Tehillim 144:15).”

Rabbi Aviner reminds us that unity comes from loving each other despite

differences and disagreements. Whatever party you wish had won, the fact that another

free election took place in Israel is a victory we can all share. Israel is the total of all her

people and all share in her victory. May the whole nation find peace and prosperity in the

coming years.

rabbi@tiflorida.org

Office Hours: Tuesday-Friday, Sunday

Please call or email for an appointment.

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From Our Congregational Life Coordinator

By Susan Bernstein

The Seder is divided into 15 sections that direct us through the Haggadah from the Kiddish to

the concluding songs. Maggid is the longest and most important part of the Seder. It contains the

story of Passover – how God helped us throw off the shackles of slavery and how we began our jour-

ney to become a free nation. Why, then do we start the Maggid section by pointing to the Matzah and announcing,

“This is the bread of poverty”? Why do we start to tell such an honorable story by mentioning something so lowly

and shameful? Perhaps the following parable will help to understand the Seder custom.

Once, a king was traveling through the fields when he heard the sounds of a flute being played. “I must find

this musician, whomever it is, is obviously a very special person.” The musician was actually a young shepherd. Hav-

ing spoken to him for only a few minutes, the king realized that this simple young fellow was a man of superior intelli-

gence. He offered him a position at the royal court and the young shepherd accepted.

At the palace, the young man quickly proved his value. He rose in power to become the king’s most trusted

and respected advisor. Though the king’s respect for his new chief advisor increased every day, the young man’s

popularity decreased steadily among his fellow palace workers. “Why should the new guy be the king’s favorite?” they

grumbled. “We’ve been here longer.”

Eventually, they came up with a plan. They accused the king’s new advisor of stealing money and property

from the king. The king wouldn’t believe them at first, but after some time and some persistent nagging from the

other palace workers, he agreed to search his advisor’s home. They found nothing. Happy, the king was about to re-

turn to the palace when his workers pointed out one more door they somehow missed during their search.”Don’t go

in there!” the advisor cried. His usually confident face had turned white, and beads of sweat began to form on his

forehead. The king and his workers insisted and the door was opened. What was inside was a source of great shock

and amazement to the king and all who witnessed.

Absolutely nothing. The room was empty, except for an old robe and a flute. Pressed for an explanation, the

chief advisor finally relented. “Having risen so quickly in position, I needed a way to make sure I wouldn’t let all of the

honor and power get to my head. So every morning, I lock myself in this room, put on my old shepherd’s robe and

play my flute. When I remember the old days, I realize that I have no reason to become haughty. This has helped me

immensely.

On the night of the Seder, our mitzvah is to tell a story about ourselves that involves much honor and glory.

Before we can do that, we must remind ourselves of our origin: “This is the bread of poverty.”

Hag Sameach V’Kasher!

Susan Bernstein kehillaclc@tiflorida.org 407.647.3055 ext. 304

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From Our Youth Director By Eliana Gershon

Spring is my favorite season. I love the blossoming trees and warmer weather, but what I

really enjoy is the sense of renewal. The idea of wiping clean and starting anew is comforting and up-

lifting. All year round I am constantly trying to recreate, reinvent, and improve upon myself and the

things around me. In spring, everyone seems to motivate one another to do the same. It is so fitting that Pesach falls

during this time of year. There is, of course, the “spring cleaning” aspect that comes before, when we search the

nooks and crannies of our homes for stray chametz, then there are the symbolic parts of the seder, like the carpas and

the egg, that remind us of the season. However, my favorite piece of renewal is the retelling of the story of the Exo-

dus. You may be thinking: how is retelling the same story year after year a means of renewal or reinvention? If you

are asking yourself this, you’d be in the same boat as my students. “Didn’t we do this last year, Ms. G?”

Well, yes we did. But how did we do it? Did we take the time to find new ways to discuss our history? Did we

discover new meaning in the text? Did we strive to take ownership of our story, or did we read the same words from

the haggadah without a second thought? The story of the Exodus acts as a foundation for reinvention and rediscovery

in the classroom, at the seder, and in our community.

How do the struggles of our ancestors apply to us today, and how does the conversation about freedom

change within a broader context of the world around us? In my classroom, we are using art to highlight the signifi-

cance of Pesach—what can you do to upgrade the discussion in your family?

Upcoming Events Saturday, April 11th—USY Hang Out! 8:45-11:00 PM

Let your first taste of glorious bread after Passover be with USY! We are going to make our own pizzas, eat ice

cream, watch movies, and hang out with all the teens at Temple Israel. This event costs 5 dollars at the door and is

open to grades 9-12.

Sunday, April 12th— USY Summer Program Open House! 12:30-2:30 PM

We'll be chatting about how you can travel all over the country, or even to Israel, Italy, and more with USY this sum-

mer! Learn how you can get involved in growing our TI USY Chapter! Meet in the lounge at TI for information and

snacks. Free for teens and parents.

Sunday, April 26th—Wonderworks with Kadima & L’dor V’dor! 12:30-5:00 PM

Join Kadima & L’Dor V’dor on our adventure to Wonderworks! Meet at TI and carpool to Wonderworks. Eat a deli-

cious lunch from Kosher Grill and then experience a thrilling ropes course, an awesome 4D theater ride, and an ex-

citing round of Lazer Tag! Event is open to grades 2-8. Cost is $25. Participants must sign up and pay in advance, by

filling out this form on our website: www.tiflorida.org/wonderworks-event

Deadline to sign up is Sunday, April 12th. For any questions please contact me at youthdirector@tiflorida.org

L’Shalom,

Eliana Gershon

youthdirector@tiflorida.org.

407.647.3055 ext. 302

office hours are Wednesday 9:30 am- 4:30 pm or call to set up an appointment at another time.

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From Our Comptroller By Michelle Bilsky

I am very honored to have been voted in as Comptroller this year. I am settling in and

I have had the opportunity to review everything and start working with our bookkeeper, Pat.

There is a great deal of work that goes into the day to day operation of the temple and I have

just been exposed to a small amount of it during my seven years on the board of directors and

two years on executive board. Now I am learning in much more detail how the business of a temple is accom-

plished and it is very interesting.

One very interesting thing is learning to calendar events amongst 10 or more committees. While Susan

Bernstein takes care of the coordination of events and John-Patrick Alexander places them on our calendar the

sheer volume of activities by our committees, school, Sisterhood, Men’s Club and Rabbi is impressive. Recently

I have been approached by many congregants (new and old) who are almost overwhelmed by how vibrant and ac-

tive our Temple Israel community has become in 2015. We have such a plethora of activities to choose from on

almost every weekend and many weekdays as well. What to go to …. What to do ….. that seems to be the question

on so many of our minds.

Here is my suggestion – don’t be overwhelmed and don’t feel obligated to go to events. The amazing board

members, committee members, staff and volunteers plan so many events to give everyone the opportunity to attend

the one or many things that they love. Young or old, active or couch potato, Temple Israel strives to have an ac-

tivity every month that would be appealing to attend. You may go to one event or maybe you go to several – what-

ever is your choice we are happy we can provide a calendar that can give you those choices.

Our end of the year fundraiser was a big success and my thanks to everyone who contributed in any and

every way to that wonderful event. We have not finalized all fundraising events this year, so if you have a sugges-

tion please feel free to let me know your ideas. Ways & Means has an open seat and I would love to have you in it!

You will be seeing more communication from me this year and I will be providing you with updates on our funds,

scholarship opportunities, 501C3 progress, and many other exciting financial, budgetary, and fundraising pieces of

information.

As it pertains to our budget, for now let me just say that I am in the process of reviewing all of our expenses

and contracts. Many of them have been in place for quite some time and it is time to renegotiate and either get the

best deal or find a new better deal. That’s one of the goals for this year and working with Budget & Finance we

plan to reduce our expenses where we can by buying in bulk, obtaining discounts, and maximizing our buying

power. I am also reviewing our investment portfolio and working to maximize our investments while maintaining

our financial security and nest egg. We are working closely with TOP and I am engaging with them in fundraising

and grant discussions.

Remember that we have many opportunities for endowment, dedicated funds and sponsorships. If you

want to discuss any of these please give me a call, text or email. I would love to talk to you.

L’Shalom,

Michelle Bilsky

michelle.bilsky@yahoo.com

407.620.7882

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Kosher Catering by Brown’s New York Deli

Saturday, April 4 - 6:30 pm Hosted in our Roth Social Hall

Led by Rabbi Joshua Neely

Discover the taste of freedom & experience spiritual liberation.

Menu Seder Plates (for each table)

Matzo Ball Soup A choice of Brisket, Chicken or Vegetarian Entree

Roasted Potatoes & Fresh Sautéed Vegetables Manischewitz, Grape Juice, Assorted Beverages & Dessert Buffet

Adult Temple Israel Members $38 Adult Non-Members $48

Children up to Age 12 Free

Become a Sponsor! Any amount is a mitzvah. With a donation of $54 and more a special message will

be included in our Seder handout. With a donation of $108 and more you may choose a bottle of kosher wine to enjoy at your table in lieu of Manischewitz.

Make your reservations by Monday, March 30, by 4:30 pm Make your reservations online

(https://www.tiflorida.org/events/second-night-seder-2015-04-04/) Phone: 407.647.3055 Fax: 407.647.8542

or Email: office@tiflorida.org

This is a plated event

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SIYUM BECHOROT - COMPLETION OF THE FIRST-BORN

In appreciation for being spared the plague of the first born and out of sympathy for the Egyptians who perished, first born children fast the day of Erev Pesach, April the 3rd. Since the mitzvah of celebrating learning trumps this fast, if a feast is made in honor of completing a course of study, participants can break their fast. Whether you are a first born or not, come on Friday, April 3 at 7:45 am to the community minyan at the Jewish Academy. The entire service and ceremony will be concluded by 8:45 am and will be followed by breakfast.

SCHEDULE OF PASSOVER SERVICES

Friday, April 3 7:45 am Minyan & Service of the first-born at the Jewish Academy of Orlando Friday, April 3 6:00 pm Erev Passover Services at Temple Israel 1st Night Seder at home Saturday, April 4 9:30 am-11:30 am 1st day Passover Services 6:30 pm Passover Evening Service & 2nd Night Community Seder Reservations required Sunday, April 5 9:30 am-11:30 am 2nd day Passover Services Friday, April 10 9:30 am-11:30 am 7th day Passover Services 7:30 pm Erev Shabbat & Passover Services Saturday, April 11 9:30 am-11:30 am 8th day Passover Services (Yizkor will be recited)

WE NEED YOU TO HELP US REPAIR THE WORLD!

Selling the Chametz

If possible, all chametz – food not acceptable during Pesach (Passover), or materials containing such unacceptable food – should be kashered, destroyed or given away before the holiday begins. In some cases this is physically impos-sible. In others, excessive destruction would violate the mitzvah of ba’al tashchit (do not destroy needlessly). In these circumstances, the chametz may be stored in such a way that we are sure not to use it during the holiday and its ac-tual ownership is transferred to a non-Jew until the holiday ends. This transfer can be done in person with Rabbi Joshua Neely on a Sunday or Wednesday during school hours or by appointment. If that is not possible, you can ap-point him as your proxy by returning the form below. In either case, it is customary that while we make room in our homes for Pesach that we also consider those who have less than we do and make a donation to tzedakah. Please complete the form below and return no later than April 1, 2014. You can also sell your Chametz online at: https://www.tiflorida.org/selling-chametz/ I, the undersigned, fully empower and permit Rabbi Joshua Neely to act on my behalf to sell all chametz possessed by me – knowingly or unknowingly – as defined by Torah and rabbinic law, and to lease all places wherein chametz owned may be found. This transaction will be in effect for the duration of Pesach, which this year begins with sun-down of April 3 and runs through April 11 until 3 stars appear. And to this I hereby affix my signature on this _________________day of_____________ ,in the year_________. Name Address

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JEWISH “SOUL FOOD” FOR PASSOVER

On Passover, chametz (leaven) symbolizes our lesser selves and arrogance. Therefore, the removal of chametz from our lives for eight days is an integral part of Pesach. Chametz is treated a little differently than other issues of kashrut. The following guide should help you stock your pantry: Foods that always need a Kosher for Pesach label All baked goods (matzah or any other products containing matzah), 100% fruit juices, herbal teas, canned tuna, wine, vinegar, liquor, decaffeinated coffee and tea, dried fruits, oils, frozen uncooked vegetables and all frozen processed foods, candy, chocolate-flavored milk, ice cream, yogurt, cheeses, butter, and soda. Any processed food bought during Pesach must have a kosher l’Pesach certification.

Foods OK without a Kosher for Pesach label if bought before or during Pesach Fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs, fresh fish (whole or gutted), fresh or frozen unchopped kosher meat, whole (unground) spices and nuts, pure black, green, or white tea leaves or teabags, Nestea regular and decaffeinated unflavored tea, coffee (unflavored regular), baking soda and bicarbonate of soda.

Foods OK without a Kosher for Pesach label only if bought before Pesach white milk, Tropicana 100% orange juice, filleted fish, frozen fruit (with no additives), pure white sugar (with no additives), olive oil (extra virgin only), non-iodized salt, quinoa (with no additional ingredients).

Any detergents, cleaners, etc. which are not a foodstuff and which are not eaten, may be used for Pesach and do not require a hekhsher. Prescription medicines are permitted. Non-prescription pills and capsules are per-mitted; for liquids check for alcohol as an ingredient.

SUCH A DISH

Many people have a separate set of dishes, utensils, cookware etc. used only for Pesach. This avoids the process of kashering them. However, it is unnecessary in most cases. Some gentle elbow grease can kasher most items. In all cases, the items should be thoroughly cleaned and then left unused for 24 hours before kashering. Metal utensils, pots, dishes: immerse the item in water that has been heated to a rolling boil (hag’alah). You may kasher a number of utensils together as long as the boiling water covers every piece individually. For pots and pans, clean handles thoroughly. If the handle can be removed, one must remove it for a more thorough cleaning. To effect hag’alah, the item must be completely exposed to the boiling water. The item is then rinsed in cold water. Pots and pans that are too big to immerse in another pot, are filled with water brought to a roll-ing boil, after which a heated stone is dropped in, causing the water to overflow to cover the sides of the pot. Glass dishes, Pyrex, and utensils: may be kashered by thoroughly cleaning them inside and out. Heavy-duty plastic items, including dishes, cutlery or serving pieces, provided they can withstand very hot water and do not permanently stain, may also be kashered by hag’alah.

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AND THE REST…

Dishwasher: A dishwasher needs to be cleaned thoroughly, including the inside area around the drainage and filters. Then run a full cycle with detergent (with racks inserted), while empty. After 24 hours of not being used, the dish-washer is again run empty (with racks inserted), and set on the highest heat for the purpose of kashering. If the sides of the dishwasher are made of enamel or porcelain, the dishwasher cannot be kashered for Pesach.

Oven: Every part of an oven or stove which may have been touched by food during the year must be thoroughly cleaned and left unused for 24 hours. Final kashering may be achieved by one of these methods:

Blow torching (libbun) the inside of the oven (not recommended). Turning the oven on to the highest setting for 1 hour. If it’s a self-cleaning oven, running it through the clean cycle.

The surface of the stove and the burner area should be as thoroughly cleaned as possible, and the burners should be turned to the maximum setting for 1 hour. All grates in the oven or stove should be cleaned and then heated on the maximum setting or self-cleaning cycle.

Microwave: Thoroughly clean. Then place an eight-ounce cup of water inside the oven and microwave until the wa-ter almost disappears. Do not heat until the water is completely evaporated, as this may damage the oven. A micro-wave oven that has a browning element cannot be kashered.

Surfaces: Tables, cabinets, and counters should be thoroughly cleaned for Pesach. Many people choose to cover them with paper, foil or unstarched cloth.

Plastic laminates, limestone, soapstone, granite, marble, glass, Corian, Staron, Ceasarstone, Swanstone, Surell, and Avonite surfaces can be kashered by iruy (pouring boiling water over the surface) provided there are no cracks or scratches that can be seen with the naked eye. A wood surface that does not contain deep scratches may be kashered by iruy. Ceramic, cement, or porcelain countertops cannot be kashered and must be cleaned and then covered. A metal kitchen sink can be kashered by thoroughly cleaning and scrubbing the sink (especially the garbage catch), letting it sit for 24 hours, and then carefully pouring boiling water over all the surfaces of the sink, including the lip. A porcelain sink cannot be kashered, but should be thoroughly cleaned and used with dish basins and dish drains.

SOME THINGS WON’T BUDGE

The following items which have been used within the last year cannot be kashered:

Chinaware, pottery, earthenware, wooden utensils, enamelware, porcelain, and most plastics. Utensils such as knives whose parts have been glued together. Utensils which cannot be thoroughly cleaned such as a sieve, grater, food grinder or processor, mix mas-

ter, and food mixer. In all of these cases, small particles may have become embedded where two surfaces meet so that it becomes impossible to dislodge it without damaging the utensil.

B’DIKAT CHAMETZ - THE SEARCH FOR LEAVEN BEE-UR CHAMETZ - DESTROYING THE LEAVEN

Removal of chametz includes an interesting ceremony. On Thursday, April 2 after dinner, the homeowner or family gathers together and conducts a search for remaining chametz (leaven). The rooms are darkened, and with a candle in hand, they search for and gather together the crumbs of bread which have been care-fully placed (wrapped or in ziploc bags) in strategic places in advance. This is especially fun for the children to hide (make sure they know where they hid them). This search by candlelight is a chance to symbolically check our own spirits before the Seder the next night and is reminiscent of the plague of darkness that pre-ceded our Exodus. These crumbs are to be burned on Friday, April 3 before 10:00 am. The short prayers which are said as part of these ceremonies may be found in the beginning of the Haggadah.

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Game Night at Temple Israel!

Monday, April 6, at 7:00 pm in the Lounge

Whatever your game is … the first Monday of the month is your night!

Come and enjoy a great game of Texas Hold’em, Mah Jongg, Chess or

Pool (or learn how!). Refreshments will be available, and it all goes down in

the Lounge. When you arrive, enter through the front of the temple. All are

welcome!

Sponsored by Temple Israel’s Men’s Club

Questions? Please call Joe Ihns at 407.267.2000.

For the rules of Texas Hold’em check out the video link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAoR9ji8D6A

For the rules of Mah Jongg & Chess, ask a player and get in on a game; they’re way too complicated to learn from a

video.

We brought it back just in time!

Sunday, April 12 at 9:30 am in the Roth Social Hall

We’re here with bagels, beverages, newspapers, Wi-Fi and more! Drop the kids off at re-

ligious school. Support the minyan at 9:00 am in the Savage Family Chapel. Come early

for that 10:30 or 11:00 meeting. Sleep in and enjoy until noon. Not a member? Come

visit and have a bagel. We’ll be happy to show you around.

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Orlando’s Premier Showing of the Nationally Acclaimed Movie

A Journey into the Holocaust April 15, 2015 at 7:00 in the Roth social Hall. In remembrance of Yom Ha Shoah, Temple Israel’s Adult Education Committee will be presenting to the film, A Journey into the Holocaust, which delves into the root cause of why the Holocaust happened. This acclaimed documentary written, directed and produced Mr. Paul S. Bachow, has received world wide rec-ognition. In this documentary, Mr. Bachow tries to answer the perpetual question of “Why?” Why did the Holocaust happen ? How did the Holocaust happen ? What can we do today to prevent it from happening again ? 70 years later, why is genocide still happening ? A Journey into the Holocaust tries to answer these questions in addition to pointing out the signs to be aware of that may lead to more genocide.

This showing is free to the public at Temple Israel located at 50 South Moss Road in Winter Springs, Florida. Refreshments will be served and discussion will follow the showing of the film

Sisterhood Book Club

Thursday, April 16 at 7:00 pm In the home of Valerie Kahn

We have had to change the book for our April book-club discussion. The new selection is one you will definitely want to read and join in on the discussion – The Family: Three Journeys Into the Heart of the Twentieth Century by David Laskin. The Family tells the story of the Jewish 20th century through the experience of one ordinary yet extraordinary family. While this book reads like a novel, it is the true story of David Laskin’s family from the late 1800s in Europe until today. “A century and a half ago, a Torah scribe and his wife raised six children at the western fringe of the Russian Empire. The upheavals of the last century split the family into three branches: one immigrated to America and founded two businesses, including the Maidenform Bra Company; one went to Palestine as pioneer farmers and participated in the violent birth of the State of Israel; the third branch remained behind in Europe and suffered the onslaught of the Nazi Occupation.” An incredible saga of a Jewish family, The Family takes us through shared experi-ences - those of joy, fear, sorrow. And don’t forget – you don’t have to be a member of Sisterhood to read the book or come to the discussion!

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Please Give a Warm Temple Israel Welcome to Our Newest Members!

Avi & Judy Arroyo

Ljubica Briceno Cappelletti & Daniel Gomez

Tot Shabbat is a joyful and engaging program geared toward families with

young children, ages 5 and under (older siblings are welcome too). This 30-

minute program includes Shabbat themed songs, dancing, stories, a Torah pa-

rade, simple blessings, and challah and juice too! Facilitated by Jennifer Cohen,

Tot Shabbat meets at 11:30 a.m. in a bright and cheerful kid-friendly section of

our Roth Social Hall.

Bring your friends and meet other families with small children as we celebrate Shabbat with the youngest members of

our community! All are welcome, and temple membership is not required. Afterward, stay and join our entire congre-

gation for our Shabbat Kiddush Luncheon.

Tot Shabbat Saturday, April 18, at 11:30 am in the Roth Social Hall

Sunday, April 19 at 9:00 am. Begins in the Savage Family Chapel

The program is open to everyone (kids, adults, young, old -- everyone) and

starts with the Sunday morning minyan in the Savage Family Chapel

at 9:00 am; We'll be leaving shortly thereafter for the Cross

Seminole Trail.

There will be a shorter route (10-12 miles) for our casual bikers, and a longer

route for more experienced riders. We look forward to seeing you there!

Exploring Our Spiritual Connections Saturday, April 18 at 11:00 am in the Rein Sanctuary

A monthly addition to our Shabbat morning worship, we will join together to uncover the treas-

ures within the Jewish spiritual traditions and tools.

In lieu of the regular sermon, we will seek to understand how Jewish spirituality works and how we

can make it work for us – analyzing our history and poetry, the function and power of our prayers

and their combined effect on our lives and our world.

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Honorable Menschen I would like to thank the following volunteers who helped make our Purim Family Megillah Reading/

Dinner and Carnival a huge success. Without the help from our dedicated members, none of these

programs and events would be as successful as they have been. Todah Rabbah!

Purim Dinner: Sarabecca Rosier, Ellen Kamenoff, Vered Tzur, Linda & Chuck Silverman

Megillah Readers: Rabbi Joshua Neely, Debbie Meitin, Eliana Gershon, Natan Brener,

Daniel Wise, Michael Fineberg, Judi Chisdes

Carnival Committee: Darci Brammer, Mardi Weiner, Sharon Sachs, Nancy Stern, Daniel Wise,

Kris Crane

Donors: Barbara Weinreich, Geanne Share, Marion Daitzman, Kris Crane, Arlene Silver,

Phyllis Kamenoff, Daniel Wise, Nance Stern, Mardi Weiner, Darci Brammer, Rebecca Yang,

Mollie Savage, The Neely Family, Vered Tzur, Susan Bernstein, Harold Plessner

Carnival Helpers: Kris & Johanna Crane, Matt Gordon, The Kluger Family, Mindy Markowitz,

Gary Berg, Chuck Silverman, Joel Adelman, Rebecca Yang, Mollie Savage, Gabby Pinsky,

Michelle Bilsky, Vered Tzur, Sara Conway, Max & Sam Ihns, Susan Morgan, Karen Pinsky,

Sharon Pinhas, Arlene van de Rijn, Eliana Gershon, Doug Sachs, Monica Garcia, Larry Silver,

Daniel Wise, Nancy Stern, Michael Langman, Cathy Swerdlow and Mary Pat Davis

Carnival Food: Men’s Club – Wayne Bilsky, Joe Ihns, Bernie Kahn; Arlene Silver and

Karen Pinsky

Tot Program: Jen & Lizzie Cohen

Purim Spiel: Chuck Silverman, Geanne & Adrian Share, Eliana Gershon, Susan Bernstein,

Dylan & McKenna Sachs, Lili Morgan and Miriam Crane

Construction of the new Plinko Game: Joe Ihns

Assembling the Mishloach Manot boxes: Vered Tzur, Gabby Pinsky, Rebecca Yang,

Penelope Neely, Michelle Bilsky and Ellen Kamenoff

L'Shalom,

Susan Bernstein

Congregational Life Coordinator

14

Runway pets: Canine Couture for a Cause article originally appeared in the Heritage

Seventh grader Aubrey Stern has always loved animals. As she approaches her 13th

birthday, Aubrey has been preparing to become bat mitzvah at Temple Israel in Winter

Springs. So, it's no surprise that when Aubrey was told one of the requirements of becoming

bat mitzvah is to perform community service, she chose to support a local no-kill animal rescue

organization. To do this, she held a dog fashion show as a fund-raiser and education event for

Pet Rescue by Judy. Aubrey raised $350 at the dog show.

Pet Rescue by Judy is a local 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the rescue of cats

and dogs. Many of them come to Pet Rescue by Judy (PRBJ) with medical needs where they

are doctored to the best of PRBJ's ability and resources. The Dog Fashion Show was held at

the Seminole County Cooperative Extension Auditorium in Sanford and was a success.

The "models" were adoptable dogs from Pet Rescue by Judy. Assisting Aubrey at the show

were friends and students from the Temple Israel Meitin Religious School.

For those who would still like to make a donation, checks should be made to Pet

Rescue by Judy and can be sent to either the Stern's address (please call 407.314.3520 for address) or directly to

Pet Rescue by Judy, 2620 Iroquois Ave, Sanford, FL 32773. Donations of goods from Pet Rescue by Judy's wish

list (seen at http://www.petrescuebyjudy.com or visit the Facebook page at http://www.Facebook.com/

RunwayPets) should go directly to PRBJ. For more information contact Nancy Stern at cookwithnan@yahoo.com

or 407.314.3520.

I would like to thank everyone for their support of my Bat Mitzvah project. It was a lot of work (and a lot of stress!) but we made over

$350 for Pet Rescue by Judy, that will go a long way helping them set up their low cost spay/neuter clinic. I would especially like to

thank my classmates for their help with the actual show – I couldn’t have done it without you!

- Aubrey Stern

Aubrey Stern (l) with Judy

Sarullo, founder of Pet

Rescue by Judy, and one

of the models, Gracie.

Congregational Shabbat Dinner

Friday, April 24, at 6:30 pm in the Roth Social Hall

Join us for Shabbat Dinner! Afterward join us for services. It’s $10 for ages 6

and up, with a cap at $40. Tots ages 5 and under eat for free. As always, our

Keepers of the Flame are invited to share good food and company with us at no

charge.

Please make your reservations online by April 21

or you can contact the office at

office@tiflorida.org - 407.647.3055

15

From Our Sisterhood President By Cathy Swerdlow It’s almost Pesach and the kitchen corners and backs of shelves are calling to me. It’s time to

clean (the original spring cleaning routine) and search for Chametz and re-line the shelves and live a

rather Spartan life for a week. Simple fruits and vegetables and basic meals, except when it comes to

desserts! I just love surfing the web for the latest ideas for kosher l’Pesach recipes. If it includes

chocolate, all the better!

Passover is that quintessential Jewish holiday that is layered with meaning. There is, of course, the story of the

Exodus with all its drama. The Rabbis, in their wisdom, gave us the mitzvah of the Seder that recreates the tension, the

intrigue, the experience for us – year after year. But woven into this, are the memories of sharing Passover with family

and friends. And even if this is the first year you are celebrating, you know you are building your storehouse of memo-

ries that will just get richer and richer as time goes on.

One of the things I love about the Seder is the fact that my Seder experience has grown and changed over the

years. I have added new readings and new rituals that have enhanced our Seder. Here are several websites/documents

that might pique your interest:

http://ajws.org/what_we_do/education/publications/chag_vchesed/5775/cc_pesach_5775.pdf

http://wlcj.org/resources/resources-for-members-and-friends/seasonal-materials/four-for-your-passover-seders/

http://pjlibrary.org/pj-blog/index.php/archives/4486/engaging-children-at-the-passover-seder/

http://www.uscj.org/JewishLivingandLearning/ShabbatandHolidayInformation/Holidays/JewishHolidays/

Passover/default.aspx

http://wlcj.org/resources/resources-for-members-and-friends/seasonal-materials/womens-seder/

Wishing you all a happy and a healthy Passover season.

L’shalom Cathy Swerdlow cswerd@gmail.com

Heirloom Cooking Event Sunday, April 26 at 10:00 am in the Roth Social Hall

We will meet in the kitchen and prepare a collection of old world favorites made new again!

These are all recipes from our cookbook, With These Hands – A Taste of Temple Israel Sisterhood. If you don’t already own a copy (or would like to give one as a gift!), they are available in the Judaica Shop!

Bring your apron and an old family recipe to share. Will cook, share stories and enjoy the fruits of our labor! We will also have a short general meeting and vote on the slate of officers for 2015-2016!

Please make your reservations with Shirley Gold at spgold29@aol.com or 407.772.2899 by Friday, April 24.

Cheese Blintzes Mock Chopped Liver Vegetarian Kishka

16

Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Kosher

But Were Too Afraid to Ask.

If you have ever wanted to cook kosher, or cook at home to bring in for temple events, then join

Rabbi Joshua Neely and learn about cooking kosher. This valuable lesson is open to everyone and

takes place on Sunday, April 12 at 11:00 am. Be there or be traif!

Happy Pesach! That means it’s time to start thinking about the High Holidays and the

Temple Israel High Holiday Choir. We are looking for a few good voices, people who can listen and

want to share their talent with the Temple Israel Congregation. The director is a music professor, and

our own Cantor is the organizer. Fluency in speaking Hebrew is not necessary. If people have

been saying you have a nice voice, and if you can read music a little bit, please contact Debbie

Meitin (dmeitin@gmail.com) to set up a try-out. Rehearsals start in mid-July!

17

Attention Temple Israel!

Sisterhood is asking for volunteers to help make the lunches for Saturday morning Shabbat. We only need you to serve

once every two months. We are asking you to come to the kitchen at 10:00 am to prepare and help with the serving and

the cleanup. We need more volunteers to assist our kitchen co-chairs, Linda Silverman and Arlene Silver, so that we

can continue to provide our delicious lunches on Saturday morning.

This is truly a mitzvah you can do for yourself and your temple. Please call Phyllis Kamenoff at 407.389.0828 or the

temple office at 407.647.3055, and tell us we can count on you.

18

19

The Membership Committee has reserved seats for Temple Israel members and

guests for the Orlando Shakespeare Theater production of

SPAMALOT

We have reserved 40 seats in Sections A & B of the Margeson Theater for the 2:00 pm performance with a meet & greet beginning at 1:00 pm

in Harriett’s Café.

Seats are 20% discount priced for: Section A (Gray) $48 & B (Red) $36

(The seating chart is on the website, orlandoshakes.org, under “Tickets”)

To express interest in attending, please contact the temple office at office@tiflorida.org and 407.647.3055.

More information will be coming in the near future.

Save the Date!

Sunday, October 11, 2015

at 2:00 pm

20

February 2015 Donations

may be purchased or reserved. May their memories

always serve as a blessing. $360 for a perpetual

memorial plaque in the sanctuary.

Contact the synagogue office at 407.647.3055.

Special Kiddush Luncheon Mentions for: Phyllis Kamenoff

Linda Silverman

Arlene Silver

Shirley Gold

The Kiddush Luncheon Was Sponsored in February by: Julia & Michael Fineberg - in celebration of Julia’s

birthday and Michael’s Bar Mitzvah anniversary Elliott Davis & Judy Kahan - in celebration of their

Aufruf

ADULT EDUCATION FUND Donor In Memory Of Edie Fenster Charles Fenster GENERAL FUND Donor In Memory Of Bernice Sulman Charles Sulman & Robin Lynn Sulman Musolino Celia & Morris Feldman Allan Feldman & Frank Fierman Carol & Judi Chisdes Vivian Ryhn & Francis Chisdes MA’ASIM TOVIM FUND Donor In Memory Of Edie Fenster Belle Krochek MARLENE A. DAVIS ART EDUCATION FUND Donor In Memory Of Claire Sternberg Shaby George Sternberg ONEG & KIDDUSH FUND Donor In Memory Of Alicia, Talisha & Dorothy Cline June Harrison-Cline-Roberts Etty & Jes Baru Abraham Baru SIDDUR CHADDASH FUND Donor In Memory Of Ruth Donenfeld Max Rubin Arlene Cotton Louis Kroll SISTERHOOD FUND Donor In Honor Of Helen Hosid Alex Freilich Fayge & Freddy Cohen Sophie Gingold TZEDAKAH FUND Donor In Honor Of Susan & Lou Lazarus Dr. Robert Kaplan’s kindness Rawleigh Sallee Helen Hosid’s 8 over 80 honor Alicia Cline Talisha Harrison’s caring support Nicki D’Amato her birthday honor on Shabbat A General Donation to the Fund Ljubica Briceno Cappelletti & Danny Gomez

February Kiddush Luncheon Hostesses: Arlene Silver Linda Silverman Marion Daitzman Sarabecca Rosier Judi Chisdes Monica Goldman Nancy Stern Sandy Gillman

Our condolences to …

Irene Lober & Family on the death of her beloved son,

Richard Lober, Thursday, March 5, 2015.

Celia Feldman, Fran Golden, Linda Merlin & Family

on the death of their beloved husband & father, Morris Feldman,

Wednesday, March 18, 2015.

Howard, Randall, Aaron, Steven and Daniel Oser & Family

on the death of their beloved wife & mother, Sandra "Sandy" Oser,

Thursday, March 19, 2015.

21

April

April

8 Ed & Ellen Calish 8 Ronald & Nancy Stern 12 Harold & Carol Plessner 13 Adam & Mindy Markowitz 13 Marty & Pam Skipper 15 Len & Sandy Silbert 16 Stuart & Jo Ann Farb

If we missed your birthday or anniversary, please call the office at 407.647.3055

and we will add you to the list.

18 Aubrey Stern 19 Joshua Neely 20 Hannah Neely 20 Sylvia Schafer 21 Jennifer Cohen 21 Jill Gold 21 Jeff Tabatabai 22 Sam Kauffman 25 Albert Katz 25 Susan Shechtman 28 Elliott Davis 29 Jacob Pinsky 30 Marion Daitzman 30 Benjamin Goldman 30 Geanne Share 30 Sheri Stearns

1 Bunny Feldman 2 Etty Baru 2 Sue Tatum 3 Sydney Forrest 3 Adam Simmens 4 Sylvia Semel 5 Cameron Rohme 6 Sondra Lichtenstein 6 Larry Silver 7 Harriett Lake 9 Bernard Kahn 9 Wayne Morris 10 Paul Patti 11 Maxwell Ihns 11 Philip Karr 11 Rosalind Weinstein

Thank You!

Fariba Mahgerefteh, Hannah Neely, Sandy Oser, Mollie Savage, Vered Tzur & Arlene van de Rijn

For volunteering in the office during the month of March.

A special thank you to our volunteer copy editors, without whom the Bulletin & Shabbat handout

would be rife with grammatical mishaps!

Larry Gutter, Debbie Meitin, Penelope Neely, Arlene van de Rijn, Geanne Share, Audrey St. Clair

& Cathy Swerdlow

If you are interested in being an office volunteer, please call 407.647.3055.

WITH THESE HANDS

A TASTE OF TEMPLE ISRAEL SISTERHOOD

$30.00 plus $5.00 for shipping and handling.

If you would like to have a copy

of our Sisterhood cookbook, please let us know!

Synagogue Office: 407.647.3055, office@tiflorida.org

Marion Daitzman: 407.843.3406, daitzm@aol.com

Proceeds will benefit the charitable projects supported by Sisterhood.

Kosher Scrolls for your mezuzah

$25 each - 2.75" x 2.5"

Ketubot by Joanne Fink

Three styles of Ketubot available

We also have an anniversary

commemorative Ketubah

Open on Sunday mornings, Wednesday evenings & by appointment.

Like us on Facebook! Look for Temple Israel Judaica Gift Shop.

We hope to see you at Simcha Shabbat

Friday, April 17, 7:30 pm

Anniversaries, birthdays and all other simchas will be

recognized, and you will be blessed from the pulpit.

22

Giving Opportunities

An important value in Jewish life is tzedakah. Temple Israel provides a simple and meaningful way of fulfilling this

righteous act through our family of funds, and giving to Temple Israel in recognition, remembrance or celebration is

an appropriate way to enhance those special moments. A card will be sent acknowledging your contribution of $10

or more.

Congregation Funds

Adult Education | Cemetery | General | Library | Ma’asim Tovim | Men’s Club | Oneg/Kiddush | Rabbi’s Tzedakah |

Religious School | Temple Israel Jewish Camping Scholarship | Torah Preservation | Youth Programming

Dedicated Funds

Michelle & Wayne Bilsky Education | Elaine Farb Memorial Choir | Friends of Ethan Gold Children’s Library |

Harold & Hannah Rosenblum Education | Marlene A. Davis Art Education | Savage Family Chapel

Prayer Book/Torah Commentary Dedications

The dedication of a prayer book (siddur) or Torah Commentary (chumash) is a uniquely appropriate way to make a gift of

tzedakah that benefits the congregation for years to come. Your dedicated siddur or chumash will be utilized by the entire con-

gregation. A book plate with your specific dedication will be placed in the book prior to its addition into the congregation

circulation and an acknowledgement card will be sent. The appropriate minimum contribution for each sacred book is as

follows:

New Shabbat Siddur Chadash - $36

New Etz Hayim Chumash - $54

Sisterhood Funds

Temple Israel Sisterhood plays an active role in supporting all aspects of synagogue life. There are two funds that have

been established by Sisterhood:

Sisterhood Scholarship

Sisterhood General

Donation Form

(You can cut out this form and mail it into the office. Make donations online at www.tiflorida.org/donations)

My/Our Name making donation_____________________________________________________ Address (must include street, city, state & zip__________________________________________________________

Enclosed please find $____Please place contribution in the ________________________________Fund _____Date (default is the General Fund) □In Honor of – person(s) name □In Memory of – person(s) name______________________________

On the occasion of________________________________________________________________________

Send notification of my/our donation to (please fill in complete name & address): Name_______________________________________________________________________________________ Address_____________________________________________________________________________

For credit cards, include #_____________________________Expiration Date____ Signature_______________

Contributions may be made to honor someone on a special occasion or in memory of a departed relative or friend. Donations are tax deductible.

23

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24

Temple Israel’s Keepers of the Flame Not surprisingly, our membership dues do not cover Temple Israel’s expenses, and without generous dona-tions we would be unable to fulfill our mission of building a sacred community. Thus our basic dues represent a member’s minimum financial commitment. Recognizing that there are many members who have the ability and the desire to provide greater support in addition to their basic dues, Temple Israel created a membership category called Keepers of the Flame to provide a mechanism for this increased level of giving. The generosity of our current and future Keepers is vital to the sustainability and growth of Temple Israel.

In appreciation of this increased-dues level of commitment, Keepers of the Flame are welcome at all Temple Israel sponsored Shabbat dinners, synagogue Seders and program events without additional charge. Only a res-ervation is required. Additionally, there is a designated “Keepers of the Flame” seating area at all of the High Holiday services.

The following giving levels are suggested:

Benefactors $15,000 and up

Pillars $10,000 to $14,999

Defenders $7,800 to $9,999

Guardians $5,300 to $7,799

Protectors $3,300 to $5,299

Preservers $2,400 to $3,299

Kindlers $2,000 to $2,399

If you would like to be counted among our Keepers of the Flame, please send your giving level to:

Temple Israel

50 S. Moss Rd.,

Winter Springs, FL 32708-3002

For further information please contact our President, Eric Hoffman, at 407.517.8733.

Temple Israel

50 South Moss Road

Winter Springs, FL 32708

407.647.3055

www.tiflorida.org

Building Community Since 1954

Friday Service: 7:30 pm, Saturday Service: 9:30 am

Meet & Greet every Friday at 7:00 pm before services

Sunday Minyan: 9:00 am (in the Savage Family Chapel)

Weekday Community Minyan at the Jewish Academy: 7:45 am, Monday-Friday

Rabbi Joshua Neely