Congregation B’nai Israel2710 Park AvenueBridgeport, CT 06604www.congregationbnaiisrael.org

Volume 154, Number 10 Iyar/Sivan 5773 May 2013

Congregation B’nai Israel GalaSaturday, June 1

Please Join Us As We Honor Rabbi Arnold I. Sher

On the evening of June 1, every member of the congregation will have a “golden opportunity”—defined as “an excellent chance to do or achieve something that is not likely to be repeated.” That golden opportunity will be to come together to celebrate a golden anniversary: the 50th anniversary of the rabbinic ordination of our own Rabbi Emeritus, Rabbi Arnold I. Sher. This celebration will mark not only a milestone in Rabbi Sher’s career, but also a significant milestone in the life of Congregation B’nai Israel as well. Not many congregations can boast having a rabbi within their congregational family who is marking 50 distinguished years in the rabbinate, let alone one who contributed so greatly to the present-day strength and vitality of the congregation and who continues to be actively involved in the life of the synagogue.

continued on p. 8

Tuesday, May 14Shavuot is the holiday when we celebrate receiving the Torah at Mount Sinai. It’s a wonderful spring evening of conversation, dinner, drinks, planting, and learning.

Schedule of Events

5:30–6:00 p.m. Tefillah service: Everyone is invited to attend! All Religious School students will be participating, so parents are especially encouraged to join with their children for this special service in the sanctuary. 6:00–6:45 p.m. Dairy potluck dinner: Please bring a main dairy dish or dessert to share with everyone—a dairy casserole, blintz soufflé, salad, etc. Thank you!

6:45–7:30 Shavuot flower planting: We’ll head outside to beautify our grounds with some beautiful plants and flowers. Adults and children are all welcome! 8:00–9:30 Ethical Dilemmas Café! Join us for this one-of-a-kind “learning” event. The synagogue will be transformed into a West Village jazz café—the only catch is that instead of ordering food, you and your table mates will order up Jewish texts on modern ethical dilemmas! Enjoy live jazz piano, glasses of wine, and some really interesting conversation as we fulfill our duty to learn on the eve of Shavuot.

Join Us for Erev Shavuot!

James Prosnit, D.D. .................................................................... RabbiEvan Schultz ............................................................................... RabbiArnold I. Sher, D.D. ..................................................... Rabbi EmeritusSheri E. Blum, D.M. ................................................................ CantorRamon Gilbert, D.M. ................................................ Cantor EmeritusIra J. Wise, R.J.E. ............................................. Director of EducationRobert H. Gillette, R.J.E. ....................................... Educator EmeritusAlexa Cohen .............................................. Early Childhood DirectorAbby Rohinsky ..................................................... Director of FacilityMatthew Rosen ............................................................. Youth Advisor

OfficersMindy Siegel ......................................................................... PresidentSamuel Rosenberg ....................................................1st Vice PresidentMichael Blumenthal ...................................................... Vice PresidentShari Nerreau ................................................................ Vice PresidentRichard Walden ............................................................ Vice PresidentLori Underberger .................................................................. TreasurerLawrence Levine ................................................... Assistant TreasurerJulie Pressman ....................................................................... SecretaryDonna Tauss .......................................................... Financial SecretaryMark A. Kirsch ............................................. Immediate Past President

AffiliatesJim Greenberg ................................................. Brotherhood PresidentMaia Butterfield & Hannah Greenhall .............. BIFTY Co-Presidents

2710 Park Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06604(203) 336-1858www.cbibpt.org

The Bulletin of Congregation B’nai Israelis published every month except July.

2 What’s happening at temple? Get Happenings, our weekly email! Send your request to lynn@cbibpt.org!

Widows and Widowers GroupSaturday, May 18 at 2:00 p.m.

Please join us at the home of Lee Attenberg, 51 Morning Glory Drive in Easton, to hear our own Barbara Solomon share her experiences growing up Jewish in South Africa.

Please RSVP by May 15 to Lee at 203-374-9688. We look forward to seeing you there!

Table of Contents

From the Rabbi’s Desk .......................................... 3Shabbat Service Schedule .................................. 4From Rabbi Schultz ............................................. 5Early Childhood .................................................... 6Brotherhood News ............................................... 6From the Education Center ................................... 7Adult Jewish Learning .......................................... 9Donations ............................................................ 10

Sincere Sympathy

We extend our sympathy to the bereaved families of:

Anna Scherer, sister of Esther SpiegelWanda Hazelton, mother of Ron Hazelton

A lot has been written lately about Pope Francis and the move of Pope Benedict XVI to his now emeritus status. For the Catholic Church, Benedict will be the first pope emeritus in 600 years, so they could learn a little about the role and its challenges by seeing how synagogues do it.

There are some guidelines published by the URJ and Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR) that include statements like, “Only one Rabbi can carry the responsibility for the administration of rabbinic functions in the Congregation.…The Rabbi Emeritus should help to establish the successor in the position, and should guide lay people to understand that the new Rabbi is the Rabbi of the Congregation.” In a blog posting on the CCAR Web site, Rabbi Mark Kaiserman of California quips, “Two popes would be a real challenge as the Pope is infallible [I suggest you insert your own “rabbi as infallible” joke here—perhaps using “mother thinks he/she is” or “that one lay leader is sure he is not”].”

But just because rabbis are familiar with the role and have had a lot of time to perfect it doesn’t mean that it is something we always get right. As a matter of fact, a lot of sub-rosa complaining that goes on at rabbinic conferences is connected to the emeritus who can’t let go, or the new rabbi who fails to pay respect or honor to his or her emeritus.But we know present company is excluded.

I have long believed that I have had the best rabbi emeritus in the country. Of course it didn’t hurt that Rabbi Arnold Sher left the congregation for a very full-time position serving as a “rabbi’s rabbi” in the capacity of Director of Placement for the CCAR. There he not only served as “matchmaker” between rabbis and congregations, but as ombudsman when problems arose and honored counsel to many colleagues and synagogues looking for all sorts of advice. He distinguished himself in that capacity, just as he distinguished himself for 23 years as rabbi of B’nai Israel.

But for me it has been as rabbi emeritus that Rabbi Sher has been most influential. He has been a blessing of collegiality, history, wisdom, and support—available when needed and in the background when needed as well. He has been a mentor and a friend. What a thrill it will be for us as a congregation to be celebrating the 50th anniversary of his rabbinic ordination

and honoring him for his many years of dedicated and visionary service to our congregation and to the Reform movement.

I ask that everyone, be they long-time congregants who remember Arnie well, or more recent congregants who have benefited from his legacy, be part of both the commemorative journal being created in his honor and the gala celebration on June 1. This is a unique opportunity to express your appreciation to Rabbi Sher, and to make our annual Spring Gala fundraising effort a success.

And you may just hear Rabbi Sher and me give some advice to Popes Benedict and Francis.

And speaking of honors—Here’s to you Pat MarchettiIf Rabbi Sher and I can give some advice to the popes, it is perhaps because for 36 years we have received the best counsel, support, and love from Pat Marchetti, who retired at the end of April after decades of incredible service to our entire community. Pat worked as the Rabbi’s secretary for all of those years, but in so doing became beloved by many in the congregation.

On so many occasions folks have commented about the warm welcome and thoughtful assistance that they received from Pat when they called or stopped by. She was a trusted confidant, an insightful source of historical memory, and a person who filled the office with great competence and good humor. Both she and her partner for many of those years, Kay Gennarini, created so much goodwill among congregants and community that B’nai Israel became a stronger and more responsive sacred place.

I know I am joined by Cantor Blum and Rabbis Schultz, Gurevitz, Greene, and Sher when I say to Pat that words cannot fully express our indebtedness to you for all that you have done and accomplished. We wish you good health and many years of happy and well-deserved retirement surrounded by your sons and wonderful grandchildren.

Rabbi James Prosnit

3Celebrate Shavuot with us on May 14—see front cover for details.

From the Rabbi’s Desk

In Praise of the Emeritus—Pope Benedict XVI and Rabbi Arnold Sher

4 Items of the month: toiletries (shampoo/conditioner, soap, toothpaste, deodorant)

SHABBAT SERVICE SCHEDULE

Friday, May 3 6:00 p.m. Service

Torah Portion – B’har-B’chukotai,Lev. 25:1-27:34Haftarah – Jeremiah 16:19-17:14

Saturday, May 4 8:00 a.m. Service 9:00 a.m. Brotherhood Breakfast 9:30 a.m. Torah Study 9:30 a.m. Young Families Havurah 11:00 a.m. B’nai Mitzvah of Mark

Vinci, son of Paul and Marni Vinci, and Madison Wechsler, daughter of Michael and Nancy Wechsler

Friday, May 10 6:00 p.m. Service

Torah Portion – B’midbar, Num. 1:1-4:20Haftarah – Hosea 2:1-22

Saturday, May 11 8:00 a.m. Service 9:00 a.m. Brotherhood Breakfast 9:30 a.m. Torah Study 9:30 a.m. Young Families Havurah 11:00 a.m. B’not Mitzvah of Ellie

Rocco, daughter of Beth Doris and Daniel Rocco, and Jessica Weinstein, daughter of Stephanie Weinstein and Robert Weinstein

Friday, May 17 6:00 p.m. Service

Torah Portion – Naso, Num. 4:21-7:89Haftarah – Judges 13:2-25

Saturday, May 18 8:00 a.m. Bat Mitzvah of Renee

Grubler, daughter of David Grubler and Stephanie Grubler

9:00 a.m. Brotherhood Breakfast 9:30 a.m. Torah Study 9:30 a.m. Young Families Havurah

Friday, May 24 6:00 p.m. Service

Torah Portion – B’haalot’cha, Num. 8:1-12:16 Haftarah – Zechariah 2:14-4:7

Saturday, May 25 8:00 a.m. Service 9:00 a.m. Brotherhood Breakfast 9:30 a.m. Torah Study 9:30 a.m. Young Families Havurah 11:00 a.m. Bat Mitzvah of Alyssa

Maisner, daughter of Gerald and Anna Maisner

Friday, May 31 6:00 p.m. Service – The B’nai Israel

Band will playTorah Portion – Sh’lach L’cha, Num 13:1-15:41Haftarah – Joshua 2:1-24

Saturday, June 1 8:00 a.m. Service 9:00 a.m. Brotherhood Breakfast 9:30 a.m. Torah Study 9:30 a.m. Young Families Havurah 11:00 a.m. B’nai Mitzvah of Richard

Condon, son of Lawrence and Judith Condon, and Shaye Manton, daughter of Mark and Marci Manton

(Fridays at 6:00 p.m. where indicated, preceded by an Oneg Shabbat at 5:30 p.m.)

It has been more than a month since the Supreme Court began hearing arguments on the issue of marriage equality, specifically the cases of California’s Proposition 8 and the federal Defense of Marriage Act. As I write this in early April, I hope that progress has been made for our brothers and sisters seeking marriage

equality in our country.

On that first day of Passover, when the Supreme Court began hearing these cases, the Human Rights Campaign, an advocacy group for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender individuals, modified their standard blue and yellow logo to a red equals sign. The new red logo went viral within days, as thousands (myself included) changed their Facebook profile pictures to the new logo as a symbol of solidarity and support for marriage equality in our country. Some very clever soul created an alternate logo with two pieces of matzah! Quickly my Facebook news feed turned to a sea of Red (Insert Passover connection here). The Atlantic magazine reported that more than 2.7 million people changed their profile pictures to the red equals sign.

As I changed my Facebook profile picture, I did have a moment when I asked myself, “Will this do anything to promote marriage equality? Are the Supreme Court justices really checking my Facebook page?”

The action was small, but it did matter. Rabbi Mark Kaiserman of Congregation B’nai Tzedek in California

wrote, “[this action] shows incredible support and solidarity with every GLBT individual and couple currently denied the right to marry by the federal government.” Rabbi Eleanor Steinman, the Executive Director of California Faith for Equality, also shared on her blog, “I wonder what it must feel like to the person still in the closet to see their friends and family, allies and LGBT, affirming that they are supportive in a subtle yet very public way. I assure you, that red symbol made a difference.”

Sometimes our simple actions can make a difference. In this new world in which we live, how we present ourselves in the world makes an impact. We can show solidarity with our friends, family, congregants, and even strangers with a quick click of the mouse. Certainly it is no replacement for our words and our actions, and many more of those are needed before we reach a place of true equality and acceptance in our country, but little actions like this one were certainly a step in the right direction.

Rabbi Evan Schultz

5

From Rabbi SchultzWhy All the Red Mattered

Please join us for our Annual Gala!

6 Items of the month: toiletries (shampoo/conditioner, soap, toothpaste, deodorant)

From the Early Childhood CenterSpring Scenes!

Mrs. Block is so excited to be making matzah with Sophia for our school Passover Seder.

Our 4-year-old friends visited Warrup’s Farm in Redding for a maple sugaring demonstration.

Mason takes a taste of the freshest maple syrup, just

tapped from the tree.Julia, Henry, and their mom bless the first cup of wine (juice) during our school Passover Seder.

The Pre-K students sing all Four Questions at our school Passover Seder. We were so proud!

Brotherhood NewsHard to believe that the last day of Religious School is upon us…we look forward to seeing the students and their families at the Annual Spring BBQ & Picnic on Sunday, May 19 at the Pavilion Patio.

To all men in the B’nai Israel community: Your membership is the single most important contribution you can make to ensure the continued success of our efforts. Each and every man in our community can make a difference. If you wish to join Brotherhood, please send a $40.00 check made out to B’nai Israel Brotherhood to:

B’nai Israel Brotherhood2710 Park AvenueBridgeport, CT 06604

At Brotherhood we measure our success by the mitzvahs we make and the joy they bring…whether you are already a member, or are looking for a fun and productive way to get more involved in temple life, come on out and lend a hand in the company of some really great guys who love to have fun! Drop me an email anytime for more information.

L’shalom,Jim Greenberg, Brotherhood Presidentjim@unionmachinery.com

Max Fink, Gerd Weindling, and Sam Greenberg prepare the Brotherhood Matzo Brie

Breakfast on Shabbat morning.

7Celebrate Shavuot with us on May 14—see front cover for details.

From the Education Center

Working Together

We need your help with timing. Among the more difficult things to get right in the Education Center are staffing and class assignments. The thing that makes them most difficult is timing. The school year comes to an end before Memorial Day, people scatter for the

summer, and we need to get the teachers situated, hire new teachers when needed, get the children enrolled and assigned to their classrooms, and communicate all of this back to the families by the end of the summer. And there is the financial issue.

These are the kinds of things most members would like to have happen quietly in the background. And for the most part they do. This year we are trying something that should make it all work more smoothly for all concerned—our learners and their families (you), our teachers and those of us in the back office fitting the pieces together.

To do that better, we are adopting something that has been proven to be a “best practice” in other synagogues. We will be sending out enrollment materials the second week in May—two months earlier than we have in the past. And we are asking you to complete and return them no later than June 21. By getting them back to us so soon, we can have a clearer picture on our staffing needs at a time when it is easier to find and hire teachers (they too scatter for the summer).

It will also allow us to respond to the needs of each student in terms of placement and support services. It gives us time to work with those families with financial concerns in a timely manner—and this is especially necessary because Rosh Hashanah falls two days after Labor Day!

To help make responding quickly more attractive, the Early Bird Discount will be $50.00 per child, rather than the $20.00 it was previously. That discount will expire on June 21. All returning students need to have both

their enrollment forms and a deposit in to the Education Center by that date. As always, first-time students will receive the Early Bird rate no matter when they enroll, but we urge you to enroll them as early as possible for all of the reasons above. And as we have been able to do in the past few years, you may choose to pay online. The discount for third, fourth, and fifth children in a family also applies no matter when you register.

We will also be including the Jewish Educational Action Plan (JEAP) and Student Profile forms. We ask that you get those to us right away as well, but no later than July 31. The JEAP should be familiar to returning families. It asks you to tell us more about your child’s needs and preferences as a learner and your goals for their experience. This is vital for all students. The Student Profile will tell our teachers and madrikhim some basics about each child and will give you an opportunity to list two friends you hope your child might have in their class. (No promises, but we do our best to make sure there is at least one friend!) Classes are being set right after July 31, so we will not be able to accept requests after that time.

This school year is not yet over, and we are already excited about the coming year!

L’shalom,Ira J. Wise, Director of Education

8 Please join us for our Annual Gala!

More About Shavuot--Did You Know...Shavuot (also known as the Festival of the Giving of the Torah) is a Hebrew word meaning “weeks” and refers to the Jewish festival marking the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. The Torah recounts how after the Exodus from Egypt, the Children of Israel proceeded for precisely 49 days (the same number of days as the counting of the Omer—see Rabbi Schultz’s column in the April Bulletin) to Mount Sinai in the desert, where they were to receive the Torah. Moses went up the mountain to meet God, who gave him the Ten Commandments, written on two tablets, to be delivered to the Children of Israel.

Shavuot is also a harvest holiday. In the time of the Temples, the Children of Israel brought their first fruits to the Temple to offer to God at Shavuot. Like so many other Jewish holidays, Shavuot

began as an ancient agricultural festival, marking the end of the spring barley harvest and the beginning of the summer wheat harvest. Special customs on Shavuot include:

• the reading of the Book of Ruth, which reminds us that we too can find a continual source of blessing in our tradition

• staying up all night to study Torah and Mishnah, a custom called Tikkun Leil Shavuot, which symbolizes our commitment to the Torah and our readiness to receive the Torah

• serving dairy dishes to symbolize the sweetness of the Torah, as well as the bounty of “the land of milk and honey”

—adapted from the Union for Reform Judaism, www.urj.org

Rabbi Sher came to B’nai Israel in 1968. For the next 22 years, he served our congregation with devotion, passion, and a wonderful sense of humor. Rabbi Sher touched the lives of literally thousands of members of the congregation and the larger community, in both large ways and small. For many, “Arnie” was a major influence on their lives and their futures, and as a result he has developed a huge fan club of devoted friends who are grateful for the service he rendered to them.

Rabbi Sher left his position as spiritual leader of B’nai Israel in 1990, when he was tapped by the Central Conference of American Rabbis to serve as the director of placement for all Reform rabbis throughout North America. During his 18 years in that position, his sage and practical advice to both rabbis seeking a congregation and congregations seeking a rabbi earned him the respect and loyalty of everyone who got to work with him.

When we gather together on June 1, we will have an opportunity to thank Rabbi Sher for all that he has done for B’nai Israel and for the Reform Jewish movement. We will all have a chance to celebrate what the congregation is today, and to thank a man who

contributed so greatly to it. This is an opportunity not only for those congregants who were members during Rabbi Sher’s tenure as rabbi of the temple, but also for those newer members who don’t even know Rabbi Sher but who love what B’nai Israel is and what it stands for, who relish the warmth and friendliness of this congregation, and who embrace the congregation’s commitment to learning and to social justice. All of those wonderful characteristics of our temple are part of Rabbi Sher’s legacy.

There is no doubt that this will be a special and memorable evening—a milestone in the life of the congregation that you will not want to miss. Be part of the celebration, and don’t let this golden opportunity pass you by!

Note: The June 1 gala will be the temple’s largest fundraising event of the year, and we hope that everyone will support it by joining us that evening and by contributing to the journal that will be published in Rabbi Sher’s honor. If you have not sent your response card in to the temple, please do so as soon as possible. For additional information, please call the office at 203-336-1858.

continued from cover

9Items of the month: toiletries (shampoo/conditioner, soap, toothpaste, deodorant)

Adult RoundtableThursday, May 2 at 12:15 p.m.

This group holds a discussion about current events for anyone who wants to go deeper than the deadlines and enjoys expressing their own opinions and hearing those of others.

Facilitated by Gloria Katz. Join us on the first Thursday of each month and bring a sandwich, your opinion, and an open mind.

The Journey Toward the Promised Land ContinuesSaturday Morning Torah Study—Each Week at 9:30 a.m. Every Saturday morning we learn Torah together. Some attend 8:00 a.m. services, and others arrive in time for the study group. Some participate every week, and others drop in when they can. Some have solid biblical backgrounds, and others are novices to the study. Some know Hebrew, and most do not. Bottom line: Everyone is welcome! Join us for an enriching, enjoyable, and engaging hour of weekly learning of our most sacred text.

Parent Learning CircleSunday, May 12 at 10:30 a.m.The Parent Learning Circle (PLC) is an opportunity for parents of students in Gan through Kitah Gimel (kindergarten through 3rd grade) to connect, learn, and create community. Our learning and discussions mirror the topics that students are learning in their classrooms. PLC helps participants feel better prepared to answer children’s questions about Judaism, God, birth, death, and much more. Group members gain confidence in celebrating Shabbat, holidays, and engaging in Jewish rituals. And participants have an opportunity to learn Hebrew during the first 20 minutes of each class, just like the children in their classrooms! Join us for the whole session, or drop in at 10:50 a.m. to participate in the Jewish living conversations. With Rabbi Schultz.

Tikkun Leil ShavuotTuesday, May 14 at 8:00 p.m. Our tradition says that in every generation we should view ourselves as if we personally had gone out from Egypt, stood at Mount Sinai, and received the Torah. Join Rabbis Prosnit and Schultz and Ira Wise for a Shavuot journey of learning.

Mixing Religion and Politics: A New Generation Speaks of and for Israel—With Steven KrubinerFriday, May 10 (rescheduled from February 8)This is part of a special series in which we focus on some “hot” topics presented by talented, passionate, and articulate people who have been long connected to B’nai Israel. Steven Krubiner grew up at B’nai Israel and today lives in Washington, DC. He is the Chief of Staff for J Street and has spent the past decade working on Middle East conflict resolution. Steven was previously J Street’s Director of Israel and International Programs and oversaw efforts to highlight the significant support that exists in Israel for a two-state solution. The program will begin around 8:00 p.m., following 6:00 p.m. services and 7:00 p.m. dinner. Reservations and a $20.00 charge for dinner only. If you already reserved a place for the original February 8 date, please reconfirm with Lynn in the office, or make a new reservation, at 203-336-1858 or lynn@cbibpt.org.

Adult Jewish Learning at Congregation B’nai Israel

10 What’s happening at temple? Get Happenings, our weekly email! Send your request to lynn@cbibpt.org!

Discretionary Fund–Rabbi ProsnitSusan Bauchner, Ellen and Allan Gittleman in honor of the 99th birthday of their father, Arnold Kaplan. Marilyn Bissell in memory of Edwin Locke, husband of Evelyn Locke. Fredell Cederbaum in memory of Jack Berkowitz.Ellen and Larry Dinkes in appreciation to Rabbi Prosnit for officiating at daughter Michelle’s wedding to Jason.Beth H. Doris in memory of parents, Bob and Ellie Doris.Sylvia Edelson in loving memory of her mother, Daisy Gordon.Bennett and Nancy Hersch in loving memory of mother, Rhode Hersch. Hank and Laurel Greenberg in memory of parents, Ruth C. and Sol H. Silverman and sister, Marilyn Weiner; in honor of the milestone birthday of Lorraine Smith. Bobby Kaplan in honor of the 99th birthday of her husband, Arnold Kaplan.Gloria Katz in memory of Ken Mayerson.Marc, Janice, and Matthew Katz in memory of Arnold Katz.Dr. Bernard Levine in memory of his father, Herman Levine. Joyce Moriber in loving memory of daughter, Mindy Jo Moriber; in memory of parents, Sadie and Irving Roffman, Esther and Benjamin Moriber.Beth and Randy Reich and family in memory of father and grandfather, Stanley Reich.Edward and Winsome Rosenthal in memory of father, Alfred Rosenthal. Dr. Norman and Marilyn Weinstein in memory of Dr. Edwin Locke.The Yaffie family in loving memory of mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Mildred Skydel Seigel; in memory of dear friend, Dr. Edwin Locke; in memory of Arnold Harris, father of Scott Harris.Rachel Yurdin in appreciation and in memory of grandmother, Millie Hirschlock.

Discretionary Fund–Rabbi SchultzEdward and Winsome Rosenthal in memory of father, Alfred Rosenthal.Rachel Yurdin in appreciation and in memory of grandmother, Millie Hirschlock.

Music FundElaine and Juda Chetrit in memory of Arnold Harris, father of Scott Harris.Linda Epstein in appreciation of Cantor Blum.Anne Kamens in memory of Ellen Gordon.Gregory and Robin Miller in appreciation to Cantor Blum and in honor of Kyle’s Bar Mitzvah.Edward and Winsome Rosenthal in memory of father, Alfred Rosenthal.Abigail Schine in memory of Edwin Locke.Debbie and Michael Weisman—best wishes for a good recovery for Marc Rottman, son of Luise and Ed Burger.

Enhancement FundThe following contributions were made in memory of Dr. Edwin Locke, husband of Evelyn Locke:

Tobie Bernstein and Jeffrey Blueter Bruce and Coleen BlanchardBernadette Conway and Frank IannottiJoanna M. FisherThe Frankel familySheila Feld-Gordon and Charles GordonGordon and Arianna HirschmanMarvin and Jane IsraelDick Jamieson and April HusseySidney Jamieson Jr.Anne KamensEdith Katzen Jean-Ellen KingLucy and Michael LehmanStephen and Christine Molinsek Jim and Valerie NearyElissa A. Parker Laurie and Eric PortugueseMark SchiffSally ShernowJanet and John SilkDr. and Mrs. David T. SmileyRene, Binky, and Chadd TauraRoni Beth Tower and David GriffFrancine and Hal Wiener Lewis and Cathy Yurdin

Dale and Jerry Demner in memory of Anna and David Slive, Theodore Slive, and Joseph Greenfield; thank you to Richard Walden for the gift of “the grape.”Henry N. Diamond in memory of Dr. Albert Madwed.Sidney Fialk in honor of his nephew, David Kooris.Anne and Mark Kirsch in memory of Charles Kannel.Herman Kranes in loving memory of his wife, Dorothy, at Passover.Alice Madwed in loving memory of husband, Albert Madwed.Ruth Madwed in loving memory of husband, Jack Madwed. Rhoda Mazur in loving memory of husband, George Mazur.Lou and Roberta Pabian in memory of Irving Alexander and Ida Pabian.Howard and Julie Rosenbaum in memory of Junith M. Rothstein. The Rosenthal family in honor of Kaleigh Eve Karnal’s Bat Mitzvah.Fred and Sharon West in honor of the marriage of Eric and Kelly.

Sylvia Prosnit Adult Education FundCleo and Jon Sonneborn—Mazel Tov to Janet Jurow on the birth of her granddaughter, Lillia Jurow.

Bob and Marsha Gillette Judaic Enrichment FundGeorge and Chris Markley in memory of Stanley Manasevit, father of Sharon Harris, and Arnold Harris, father of Scott Harris.

Arnold and Doris Tower FundDavid Abbey and Deborah Goodman in memory of Dr. Edwin Locke.

Robin Isaacson and Ben Rottman in memory of Dr. Edwin Locke.

Lee and David Lester Kesher ProjectLena “Lee” Lester in memory of dear friend, Norma Dombroff, and in memory of Kenneth Mayerson, husband of Nora Mayerson.

Rabbi Martin Library FundMuriel “Muggs” Lefsetz in memory of Ed Locke.Samuel Miller in loving memory of Jennie Smith Kot. Adele Ruderman in memory of Shirley Winnick’s sister, Elaine.

Vision Loan Reduction FundVal Bogner and Linda Torzsa with love to Bob Ford on his 80th birthday.Barbara and Mark Edinberg in honor of Bob Ford’s special birthday.Kathleen Hickson in honor of Bob Ford’s 80th birthday.Lorraine and William Smith in memory of parents, Rose Smith and Solomon and Helen Rubak.

Judith Brav Sher Fund for Family EducationDebbie and Michael Weisman—best wishes to Elaine Chetrit on her retirement.Beth and Randy Reich and family in appreciation to Elaine Chetrit for her years of service and friendship.Judi, David, and Jordan Beier in honor of Elaine Chetrit with deep gratitude for all her years of devotion to B’nai Israel and the heartfelt friendship she offered to everyone.Nora Mayerson in memory of Anne Sherer, sister of Esther Spiegel.George and Chris Markley with profound gratitude to Elaine Chetrit for her many years of devoted service to B’nai Israel. Thank you for being our teacher and our model.

Rabbi Arnold I. Sher Social Action FundLisa and Yoav Burger in memory of Rose Radnai.Ilse Levi in loving memory of her sister, Betty May. Audrey and Ira Wise—in support of the work of the Temple Loving Care Committee/team.

Nursery School Enrichment FundElaine and Juda Chetrit in memory of Millie Hirschlock, grandmother of Rachel Yurdin.

Religious School Scholarship FundDeena and Mark Spector in memory of Dr. Edwin Locke.James and Lisa Greenberg and family in appreciation to Elaine Chetrit.

Slepian Flower FundThe Panisch family in loving memory of mother and grandmother, Julia Slepian.

DonationsPlease note that only contributions of $10.00 or more will be acknowledged with a card and Bulletin listing.

11Celebrate Shavuot with us on May 14—see front cover for details.

eB’nai

eB’nai 2013 thanks these generous donors and encourages our congregants to patronize and support them whenever possible:

Restaurants/Other Food Retailers & Services Abel CaterersAnnie CakesBigelow TeaBilly’s BakeryCooking with ClaudiaDuchessGarelick & HerbsCatering by GreystoneHeartland BreweryMarcia Selden CaterersMichael Gennaro’s SteakhouseNewman’s OwnOlaRizzuto’sSarah’s Simple SweetsSBC16 HandlesSuper Duper WeenieWendy’sWild Rice

Clothing, Accessories, Jewelry, & SalonsAmy’s Elegant I.D.sB’nai Israel Gift ShopCapriDirect Diamond CompanyFairfield Center JewelersHair ExplosionHarpers of FairfieldIn2designKasson JewelersSalon ISAShaw JewelersSimply CharmedW by Worth

Health, Fitness, Fun, & AdventureBe Well Laura LBlack Rock Pilates StudioChicago the Musical Broadway CompanyFairfield Ice AcademyFairfield Theatre CompanyField House of FairfieldFIT ClubGymnastics & Cheerleading Academy of CT

Dr. Rick KalmansLinda Marshella Personal TrainingMuthersbaugh ChiropracticNew Haven Open at YaleDr. Ken RabineJim Royle Drum StudioSaugatuck Rowing ClubTrumbull Racquet ClubDr. Lynelle SchneebergUnderground Boxing & Fitness

In and Around the HouseFairfield InteriorsGlobe EquipmentHome & Garden Design SolutionskellydesignsKitchen Design by Bernie JacobsLS Designs Staging and InteriorsNatural Pet OutletOrganizing by LeeAnn WeaverSleep, Etc.Window Fashions by Maggie

Events, Photography, Tutoring, & Other Professional ServicesAu Pair in AmericaCapitol Photointeractive/Capitol Photo & SonsCollege Assistance Plus of Fairfield CountyDog training by Roger JacksonEtana Creative PhotographyKate Eisemann PicturesFinancial Services by Ken FlattoGuitar Lessons by Eddy BakhashGuitar Lessons by Jeff ByingtonImages by DavidInvitations by Side-LinesKnowledge for CollegeLet Me Help UMilestone VideoMurnick Speech & Language AssociatesPiano Playing by Milt JacobyRecording Studio—David GoldbergStephanie Horwitz PhotographySuccess TutoringTrés Amie Invites & EventsVoiceovers by Randy Kaye

Guided ToursRepresentative Kim FawcettCongressman Jim HimesDr. Howard Rosenbaum, Bronx ZooWendy Swain, Central Park SculpturesFirst Selectman Mike TetreauRich Walden, Yale

Additional DonorsJack & Margot AbramsLinda Barlaam & Amy MoorinCarson BerkowitzWendy Bloch & Rabbi Jim ProsnitCantor Sheri BlumB’nai Israel Early Childhood Education CenterAlison BondsLuise & Ed BurgerMarty BurgerBob & Judy ChessinJuda & Elaine ChetritEllen & Larry Dinkes and Laurie & Dan SchopickRonnie DubrowinJohn FlahertyGreenbaum FamilyEllen KaddenSally KenlerMark & Anne KirschNorci KochmanRichard & Joanne KrantzRob MorrisAlan & Sylvie NeigherShari Nerreau & Marcy ShinbaumLiz NigroshSuzanne PhillipSherry Portnoy Sam RosenbergSheryl SantiagoRabbi Evan & Jenny Schultz Jeff & Mindy SiegelJill Tarlov & Mike WittmanDan & Lori UnderbergerDebbie ViensRich & Susan WaldenKatie WilburIra & Audrey Wise

12

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The following members of the medical community join together in their

support of the B’nai Israel Bulletin:

Dr. Andrea Hagani

Dr. Robert D. Chessin

Dr. David F. Bindelglass

Dr. Alan M. Nelson

Dr. Glenn M. Rich

Dr. Michael Sonick

Dr. Lawrence Dinkes

Dr. Kenneth Rabine

Dr. George P. Kelly

Dr. Howard B. Twersky

Dr. Martha Yepes Small

Dr. Peter A. Small

Dr. Charles Gary Gibson

Dr. Edward Portnay

Dr. Michael Connolly

Dr. Kenneth Kingsly

Dr. Mark J. Hotchkiss

Dr. Alan Landau

Dr. Robert Landis

Dr. Andrew Levi

Dr. Jared SelterWESTPORT BRIDGEPORT DANBURY ORANGE

203-222-1034 203-368-0211 203-791-8149 203-298-4066www.cohenandwolf.com

Mark A. KirschIrving J. Kern

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Land Use & Zoning, Securities, Personal Injury

Celebrating Our 60th Year!

Not Just a Law Firm. Your Law Firm.

The following members of the legal community join together in their support of

the B’nai Israel Bulletin:

Michael BeckerKen Beck

Eric Broder

Stewart I. EdelsteinIrving J. Kern

Mark A. Kirsch

Richard KrantzGeorge MarkleyDaniel Schopick

Call or email today for a free, no-obligation consultation!

Sheryl SantiagoCollege Assistance Plus of Fairfield County(203) 345-1953ssantiago@collegeassistanceplus.com

More college choices, Less college debt.

www.collegeassistanceplus.com

CAPlusC O L L E G E A S S I S T A N C E P L U S

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13What’s happening at temple? Get Happenings, our weekly email! Send your request to lynn@cbibpt.org!

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Family Owned and Operated Since 1920

Shop 24/7By Phone or Website

Bar, Bat Mitzvahs and Weddings Our Specialty

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51

Special Occasion DressesBat Mitzvah, Graduation, Prom, etc . . .

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T e e n S c e n e

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Gene McKenna, director

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www.cleartutoring.comTutoring in Fairfield and Westchester Counties

Phone: 914-953-9579

14 Please join us for our Annual Gala!

All Invitations Discounted •••• 203 795 5553

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Andy Ellis Entertainm

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Full Service Disc Jockey Company

p. 203.816.1964e. info@andyellisentertainmentw. www.andyellisentertainment.com

Très AmieInvites & Events

Your “Go-To Girls” foryour party needs!

tresamieinvites@gmail.comtresamieinvites.com

Tracie Wizda Amy Gordon727-643-4521 203-246-3573

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GEORGE J. MARKLEYATTORNEY AT LAW

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E-MAIL michael@strategies4ltc.com

Michael J Lehrhaupt, CLTC

15Celebrate Shavuot with us on May 14—see front cover for details.

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THE JEWISH HOMEexcellence in our home and yours

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Broder & Orland LLC

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Eric J. Broder ebroder@broderorland.com

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The following members of the financial community join together in their support of the B’nai Israel Bulletin:

Edward P. Burger, CPA Luise M. Burger, CPA

Marc A. Silverman, CPA

Congregation B’nai Israel2710 Park AvenueBridgeport, CT 06604www.congregationbnaiisrael.org

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PAIDPermit No. 171Fairfield, Conn.

What’s happening at temple? Get Happenings, our weekly email! Send your request to lynn@cbibpt.org!

Congregation B’nai IsraelCordially invites you to attend

The Confirmation ServiceClass of 2013

Sunday, May 19 at 3:00 p.m.

Reception following the service

Justin BowerLauren Chase

Danielle EpsteinSamantha Ferleger

Brian GauglerIsaac GreenbaumHunter LightmanJoshua MadwedSamuel Mahler

Elizabeth MaiselAlec Daniel MallonMeredith NerreauCarrie O’Connell

Alexander RosenthalJacob RudolphBenjamin SteinDaniel Zeigher