"Messages from the Mountain" is our monthly print-style newsletter. Read it online in the window below, or print and enjoy!
TMS Messages, May 2009
May 2009/Iyyar-Sivan, 5769 Number 603 Shavuot, May 28-29 — Torah-giving Time Z’man Matan Torateinu — “Torah-giving Time” is almost upon us. On Thursday night, May 28, and Friday morning, May 29, we will celebrate Chag Hashavu’ot, the Festival of “Weeks.” So-named because it comes “a week of weeks” after Passover, the earliest references to the holiday link it to ancient Israel’s agricultural calendar. We now celebrate it as the anniversary of our standing at Sinai to enter into an enduring covenant with God. The question is asked: Why do we call Shavuot “Torah-giving Time” and not “Torahreceiving Time? Surely it is z’man kabbalat torateinu as well? The answer: We celebrate the Sinai moment, which happened once upon a time, and which represents God’s gift to us. Our role, receiving Torah, is not a once-and-for-all proposition. At any moment we may receive Torah, by being awake, aware, alive to the truth of that moment. We celebrate z’man matan torateinu, the giving of a particular revelation, at Shavuot; but z’man kabbalat torateinu is forever and always. Temple Mount Sinai will celebrate as follows: on Thursday night, May 28, at 7:30 pm we’ll gather at Congregation B’nai Zion (805 Cherry Hill) for the Festival Evening Service. At the conclusion of the service, Rabbi Bach, Rabbi Leon, and others will teach into the night at a tikkun leil shavu’ot, a late-night study session for the night of Shavuot. On Friday morning, May 29, our Festival Morning Service will begin at Temple at 10:30 am. The liturgical highlights of the Shavuot service include the recitation of the Hallel Psalms, the reading of the Ten Commandments, and the Yizkor Memorial Prayers. A Kiddush with Simon Bir’s renowned blintzes will follow. We look forward to celebrating Z’man Matan Torateinu with you at the end of the month, and Z’man Kabbalat Torateinu all year round! Page 2 Messages from the Mountain Shabbat and Holiday Worship Schedule May 15-16 Parashat Behar-Bechukotai Friday, May 15 Candlelighting, 7:37 pm Oneg Shabbat, 5:45 pm Kabbalat Shabbat Services, 6:15 pm Saturday, May 16 Torah Study, 9:30 am Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 am May 22-23 Parashat Bamidbar Friday, May 22 Candlelighting, 7:42 pm Oneg Shabbat, 5:45 pm Kabbalat Shabbat Services, 6:15 pm Installation of Officers and Trustees Saturday, May 23 Torah Study, 9:30 am Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 am May 28-29 Shavuot Thursday, May 28 Festival Service at Congregation B’nai Zion, 7:30 pm Tikkun Leil Shavuot Study following Friday, May 29 Festival Morning Service at Temple Mount Sinai, 10:30 am, including Yizkor May 29-30 “Shabbat Shavuot” Friday, May 29 Candlelighting, 7:47 pm Oneg Shabbat, 5:45 pm Kabbalat Shabbat Services, 6:15 pm Saturday, May 30 Torah Study, 9:30 am Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 am June 5-6 Parashat Naso Friday, June 5 Candlelighting, 7:50 pm Oneg Shabbat, 5:45 pm Family Shabbat Services, 6:15 pm Saturday, June 6 Torah Study, 9:30 am Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 am June 12-13 Parashat Beha’alotecha Friday, June 12 Candlelighting, 7:54 pm Oneg Shabbat, 5:45 pm Kabbalat Shabbat Services, 6:15 pm Saturday, June 13 Torah Study, 9:30 am Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 am May 2009/Iyyar-Sivan 5769 Page 3 From the Rabbi’s Study... This issue of Messages from the Mountain has a new look — or, more properly, returns to an old look. In place of the smaller booklet-style, we’re going back to a larger format. How is this observation worthy of the Rabbi’s bulletin column, you ask? Read on. We’ve made this change to facilitate printing the bulletin from home. Since the page size is now 8.5 x 11 inches (the paper size most of us keep in our printers), it will be an easy thing to click on a link in an email from Temple and print your own copy of the bulletin if you choose. Or, if it is your habit to read Adobe files (.pdf files) on your screen, you can save the paper entirely. their copy of Messages from the Mountain. People who would like to continue receiving a paper version, in the mail, will be able to do so. We do hope that most of our members will choose to receive a paperless bulletin over time, as the cost savings to Temple will be significant. David Kern is forming an ad hoc committee to explore other ways that technology can help us control costs while providing a better experience for our members. If you have ideas, please share them with him or me. And if you’d like to serve on that committee, which will begin meeting very shortly, with an eye toward completing its work and making a set of You’ve probably figured out where this is recommendations to our Trustees in a matter of months, please let him know going by now: Temple plans to move, in the months ahead, toward generating even that as well. less paper, and spending less on postage, B’shalom, than we do now. We’ve already taken Rabbi Bach many steps to cut down on those costs, making extensive use of email in a number of areas of Temple life. Moving the monthly bulletin toward being an online publication (easily printed for those who choose) is the next step in this evolution. As we make this transition, we want to assure that we won’t leave anyone without Page 4 Messages from the Mountain May Birthdays May 1 Kyle Goldfarb May 2 Lisa Wolff May 3 Susan Bargemann Donald Fertel May 4 Andrew Feinberg Laura Karp Naomi Katz* Sabrina Katz* Eithan Kotkowski* May 5 Clara Bowman May 6 Susan Forbes* Lauren Holderman Marge Lippman Robert Prensky May 8 William Dahlberg May 9 Asher Litt John Mobbs Carol Parker Molly Tennen May 10 Linda Ettinger* Alan Kahn* Herbert Schwartz May 11 Alanna Bach Benjamin Ettinger May 12 Agueda Freundlich Robert Jacobs Kenneth Weiss May 13 Erica Holland* Audrey Louise Loeb Marie Robbins* Harold Soule May 14 David Yates May 15 Evelyn Bellman Samuel Farley Sonya Harris Bettye Kohlhagen Barbara Yarber May 16 Elan Goldstein Robin Kobren Lyndon Mansfield May 17 Lietzie Belford Riley Miner May 18 Colin Burton Madeline Halperin Debra Trejo May 20 Roger Belbel Julian Gonzalez May 21 Marvin Abrams* Drew Frank Leonard Krugman Meyer Marcus May 22 Jackie Heins Isaac Ibarra David Zehden May 23 Shari Schwartz* May 25 Mandy Blumenfeld May 26 Mimmy Halperin* Steve Shapiro May 27 Dorothy Borschow* Levi Meyer* Elaine Rosenbloom Arthur E. Weiss* May 28 Laura Alpern* Julie Mullen Matthew Schonberg May 29 Beatriz Eger Jeffrey Siegel May 31 Maddie Goldfarb* Ann Marks May Anniversaries May 1 Bob & Susie May May 12 Christopher & Amissa Burton May 13 Ellyce & Gil Kimmelman May 14 Arthur & Rhoberta Leeser Mark & Kyta Levitt May 16 Stuart & Nancy Shiloff May 17 Michael & Karla Franco May 18 Soheil & Ellen Nazarian * May 19 Lisa & Marcel Wolff May 23 Greg & Susanne Kligman Bernie & Elaine Rosenbloom May 24 Britt & Heather Chapman Alan & Lori Gaman May 30 John & Rita Silverman Bill & Anne Spier May 31 Bruce & Shelly Gopin Gil & Lauri Holland Lee & Sandy Nadler May 28 May 20 Laura Brannon-Rosales & John & Bea Eger * Steve & Kris Mickenberg * Ricky Rosales May 22 Alan & Cheryl Karp Bob & Jane Snow May 29 Mark & Dori Fenenbock May 2009/Iyyar-Sivan 5769 Page 5 Hamakom Y’nachem—May God Bring Comfort... to Jonathan Purvin, Stacy Berry, Robyn Purvin and Erin Purvin on the death of mother and grandmother, Alice Purvin. to Marian Given on the death of brother-in-law, Jimmy Given. to Stanlee Rubin and Dana Frank on the death of mother and grandmother, Laura Rosenberg. to friends and family on the death of Marvin Diamond. to Lila Bowman on the death of her mother, Consuelo Hughes. to Peggy Feinberg on the death of her father, Frank Mangan. to friends and family on the death of Aghdah Khodadad Tavana. to Mimi Pittle, children and grandchildren on the death of Lillian Lipson. to Steve Spivack on the death of his mother, Ida Spivack. Mazel Tov—Congratulations… to parents Heather and Jeff Jefferson, and grandmother Olivia Chavez, on the birth of Leah Elizabeth Jefferson. to parents Nathan and Leticia Stevens, grandparents Bonnie and Scott Stevens, and great-grandparents Rhoberta and Arthur Leeser on the birth of Matthew David Stevens. to parents Alan Spier and Suzanne Whitaker, and grandparents Anne and Billy Spier, on the birth of Ethan Craig Spier. Leaves and Stones on the Temple’s Tree of Life Do you know that you can honor or remember a loved one with a leaf or a stone on the Tree of Life? This beautiful work of art is displayed on the wall in the foyer at Temple just outside the Sanctuary. For a minimum donation of $300 for a leaf or $3,000 for a stone, the brass will be engraved according to your instructions and will remain on the Tree of Life forever. Your donation becomes part of the Foundation Trust and benefits Temple Mount Sinai in perpetuity. For more information, contact Sally Parke at the Temple office, 532-5959. Page 6 Messages from the Mountain Marcia Dahlberg’s Annual Meeting Remarks - April 22, 2009 Susan Jaffee gave me a pin last year that says “It’s not about the numbers – it’s about the people.” That statement sums up my experience as president these past two years. There are lots of things I could talk about this evening, but most important to me are the sacred relationships that I have made. I thought about talking about what I learned as president, but no one wants to spend the evening here, so I’ve limited my talk to “The Top Ten”: 1) We are so very fortunate to have a dedicated, hard-working professional staff, and I am so thankful to all of them for everything they do at Temple. They are truly a “team” – pitching in to help and fill in for each other when someone is ill or on vacation – always with a smile! Rabbi Bach is definitely one of the brightest, most talented, and hardest-working rabbis in the country. Larry, I have learned so much from working and worshipping with you, and although we won’t be in touch on a day-to-day basis, I look forward to our continuing friendship. Our administrative staff of Sally Parke and Buddy Schwartz along with our Building Manager, Frank Hernandez, and housekeeper Ramona Pineles work so hard to keep Temple running smoothly. For the second year in a row, our building expenses for the fiscal year are below budget. Special thanks to Sally, Buddy, Frank, and Ramona, who have made this happen. Our programming staff consisting of Susan Jaffee, Grace Bir, Alanna Bach, Alison Westermann, and Stacy Purvin Berry continues to grow participation in their particular areas of Outreach, Religious School, Family Education, and Youth, while contributing their talents and enthusiasm in all areas of Temple life. We are so fortunate to have such a wonderful team leading our Temple. Thanks also to Susie Novick who has served as Bulletin editor this past year and to our wonderful accompanist, Linda McClain. 2) Our Temple officers and members of the Board of Trustees have all contributed tirelessly of their time to make important decisions that impact Temple now and in the future. Thanks to Executive Committee members: Ruth Braun, Marian Daross, Tommy Goldfarb, Ellen Goodman, David Kern, Alan Krasne, and Jon Sonnen for always being willing to brainstorm, discuss, and come to a consensus for presentation to the Board. The Board of Trustees had made important decisions this past year, particularly in approving the revised Bylaws that you have heard tonight. Thank you to our outgoing Board members: Ruth Braun, who has served as secretary this past year and has made sure that our minutes and our meetings are as prescribed in the Bylaws; Linda Fruithandler, who is completing a second term on the Board and has shown all of us how to welcome our members and guests to Temple; and Mark Levitt, who always asks the thought-provoking questions that make us think. We will miss all of you and hope that you will continue your involvement in Temple. Past President Alan Krasne is completing his formal board service but has promised to continue his involvement in finances as well as other areas of Temple life. Alan, your advice (Continued on page 7) May 2009/Iyyar-Sivan 5769 (Continued from page 6) Page 7 has been so valuable, and please know that you are always welcome to attend Board meetings. 3) Our Past Presidents are an invaluable resource and always ready to help – whether by chairing or serving on a committee or project or answering questions and offering advice. I appreciate all of you! 4) We are so privileged to have our Sh’lichim (Synagogue Associates), Ellen Goodman, Ed Solomon, and Tina Wolfe who ably lead congregational services, officiate at life cycle events, and help in so many ways, as assistants to Rabbi Bach and as our leaders when Rabbi Bach is away. I extend my sincere thanks to all of you for your ongoing commitment to Temple. On behalf of the congregation, thank you for everything you do for all of us. 6) I have learned how important the support of my family has been over these past two years. To my husband, Bill, who has been so understanding of my Temple commitments, and who has lately been spending as much time as I have at Temple, either in the rose garden or the kitchen - thank you for all of your love, support, and advice. And to my parents, Charlotte and Bud – thank you for your love and for always being here to model, to advise, and to participate and attend almost everything that happens at Temple. 7 ) I have learned that change takes time, but I have suddenly realized how much has been accomplished in the past two years: We have approved and completed the following improvements to our building and grounds: a 5) Temple Mount Sinai is thriving because of the new, energy efficient heating and cooling system wonderful members and volunteers who for the office wing; replacement of parking comprise our Temple family. Thanks to everyone blocks outside of Zielonka Hall; safety plexiwho has contributed to Temple in the past two glass covering of the Hal Marcus windows in years, including the following members of the Zielonka Hall; renovation of the kitchen; Temple community: landscaping the corner of Kenyon Joyce and Stanton and placement of the sign; reTemple staff, including Religious School landscaping of the courtyard in front of the teachers and assistants, the Sh’lichim, Temple Sanctuary. officers, Board of Trustees, Past Presidents, Office Volunteers, Religious School volunteers, We have made important financial decisions committee chairs, and everyone who has served including: completed a lease agreement with Ton one or more of the following committees and Mobile to build a cell tower on our property that projects: Foundation Trust, Perpetual Care, will help on the income side of our financial Shared Vision, Chevra Kadisha, Caring statement for years to come; approved an Community, Border Interfaith, Care Teams, investment policy for Temple’s Foundation Membership, Casino Night, Youth and Trust Committee; approved balanced budgets Education, WRJ, MRJ, Building and Grounds, and hope to end this fiscal year as we did the last Second Seder, Lunch and Learn, Shir Chadash, one – in the black; completed the formal phase Knitzvah, 10th Anniversary, Gift Shop, sponsors of our Shared Vision Campaign with pledges and of our Shabbat flowers, an Oneg Shabbat, bequests totaling $3.8 million, a wonderful Kiddush, or Lunch and Learn. (Continued on page 8) Page 8 Messages from the Mountain (Continued from page 7) legacy for this congregation; held two consecutive years of successful Casino Night Fundraisers that have helped to balance our budgets. Other important decisions made by the Board of Trustees include: a Conflict of Interest Policy; a long overdue revision of our bylaws; and approval of the use of our chapel on Sunday mornings by members of St. Francis on the Hill Episcopal Church. 8) I feel that our most important accomplishment during the past year was the adoption of Rabbi Bach’s new continuing contract and the ensuing 10th Anniversary Celebration last December. What a wonderful evening! but this year Rabbi Bach reminded me that the Hebrew month of Nisan is actually the first month of the Hebrew calendar which is something our forefathers must have known when they scheduled this “change of command.” 10) And finally, I’ve learned that it is time for new leadership. I am so excited about the outstanding slate of officers and board members we will be electing and know that, with David Kern’s leadership, Temple will continue to prosper and grow. The past two years have been both challenging and rewarding. Serving as president of Temple Mount Sinai is an honor, a commitment, and an education. My life has been enriched by the experiences I have had, but mostly, by the people I have encountered along the way. 9) I’ve often wondered why Temple’s Annual Thank you for the opportunity and for your Meeting and election of officers occurs in what support. seems like the middle of the year – it isn’t done with the calendar year, it doesn’t match our fiscal year, and it’s not on a school year calendar, Casino Night a Great Success! Temple’s Casino Night Fundraiser was a huge success, thanks to the efforts of the volunteers who made it happen and to those who attended. With some monies still to be received, it looks as though we raised about $8,700. Special thanks to the Casino Night Committee chaired by Past President Jaime Papa and composed of Rabbi Larry Bach, Burton and Cindy Cohen, Marcia Dahlberg, Marian and Jim Daross, Joyce Davidoff, Scott and Angela Feldt, Ellen Goodman, Susan Jaffee, Randee Mansfield, Debbie and Ronald Marcus, and Sally Parke. A large number of people and businesses contributed to Casino Night in various ways, and they are all appreciated. They are acknowledged on the facing page, with gratitude. May 2009/Iyyar-Sivan 5769 Page 9 Decorations Angela Feldt, chair Scott Feldt Prizes and Auction Items Ellen Goodman, chair Alanna Bach Burton Cohen Marcia and Bill Dahlberg Marian and Jim Daross Susan Jaffee Debbie Marcus Susie Novick Jaime Papa Sally Parke Buddy Schwartz Underwriters Sally Parke Signage Cindy Graff-Cohen Hors d’oeuvres and Desserts Grace and Simon Bir Bill Dahlberg Correspondence Joyce Davidoff Servers – UTEP Hillel Students Rebecca Washer Auctioneer David Pearlman MSTY Childcare Alison Westermann, co-chair Stacy Purvin Berry, co-chair Shana Levin Nate Benjamin Kaylen Duran Cheyanne Mickenberg Auction Items and Prizes Donated by: 2900 Al Varela Alamo Auto Supply Araceli Gallegos, Daniel’s Hair Salon Casa Frost Guesthouse in Santa Fe Chocolat Coffee Emporium El Paso Icons El Paso Playhouse Famous Dave’s Greenery Hal Marcus Gallery Household Furniture Hurricane Gussie’s J. Edwards Jewelry Jacqui Hair Salon Jenny Meyers Kern Place Florist Mark Schrier Mi Piaci Pizzazz Sheldon Jewelry Simon and Grace Bir Susan Eisen Fine Jewelry & Watches Temple Mount Sinai Gift Shop West End Hair Company A very special thank you to the following businesses and families for supporting Casino Night: Underwriters Lauterbach Financial Martin Funeral Home PC Automated Controls Prime Irrigation Wells Fargo Insurance Zamorano’s Monuments EPR Contractors Goldfarb Financial RJL Real Estate Consultants Larry and Alanna Bach Bill and Marcia Dahlberg David and Susie Novick Bob and Elaine Krasne Tibor and Ann Schaechner David and Tina Wolfe Gifts In Kind Eureka Media Group Margaritas To Go Mission Linen Supply National Restaurant Supply Spectrum Imaging Page 10 Messages from the Mountain From the Religious School... Parents And Grandparents – You are cordially invited to join us at 11:15 am on May 17th (last day of Religious School) for a cookout which is generously sponsored by David and Donna Leffman. This year has been an impressive school year at the Religious School. Through their hard work, dedication, creative abilities, flexibility in programming changes, devotion to our students and love of Judaism, our faculty and substitutes have made this school year a tremendous success. Together we will continue to make positive changes for the upcoming Religious School year and beyond. Along with our CHAI and Mitkadem Hebrew curriculum, we included a Holocaust curriculum, a Mock Shabbat, and a Model Seder for our 7th and 8th grade students. There was an increase in attendance at our Parent and Grandparent Days. We had four successful Family Events, a very well attended Jewish Cultural Celebration and we exceeded our goal of raising $1,000 for our special Tzedakah Project for “A Package From Home” by $350! We also raised a few dollars by selling snacks before Hebrew classes on Wednesdays. During a number of Friday night services, our students participated by leading us in prayer. Twenty-two new students were recognized and welcomed to our Religious School during our Consecration Service this school year. During our after-school Enrichment classes, students created beautiful keepsake art pieces and had a whopping good time cooking Jewish foods. Special thanks go out to Sylvia Krapin, Mary Ann Plaut, Rebecca and Alan Krasne, Anat Rieter, Helene Solomon, Haidi Appel, and David Leffman for their involvement and contributions that helps our Religious School run so smoothly and successfully. Appreciation also goes to the Temple’s Gift Shop for its generous support to the Religious School throughout the year. Your suggestions and comments are greatly appreciated, and Education Director Grace Bir would love to hear from you regarding our Religious School programming. May 2009/Iyyar-Sivan 5769 Page 11 Mini-MSTY Activities Round Out the Year The Chocolate Seder was another big hit this year! Thanks go to many people for many reasons: To the planning committee - Ali Gluck, Helaine Bach and Lydia Duran - this year’s Chocolate Seder was a great success because of your thoughtful advice and leadership To Stacy Berry, Kaylen Duran, Stanley Ross and Leah Gluck, for helping out both before and during the Seder itself. To Alanna Bach, Stanley Ross and Michelle Blumenfeld, who provided dinner – yum! Our year wrapped up earlier this month with a Mitzvah Scavenger Hunt and the End-of-the-Year Dinner. B’nai Torah and NFTY-SW Spring Kallah High school students spent April studying social justice texts, the Haggadah and discussing the connections between Yom HaShoah and Yom HaAtzmaut. For more information about any of these topics, please ask any of our Temple teens! NFTY-SW Spring Kallah has come and gone, leaving a new regional board and very inspired MSTY-ites! Nine teens came back from Phoenix with even more passion and dedication to their home TYG (Temple Youth Group) than they had before. Each one of the teens enjoyed themselves fully. The teens cannot wait for the next conclave, which will be NFTY-SW Fall Kallah, held from August 27-30th at Camp Charles Pearlstein in Prescott, AZ. During Spring Kallah, MSTY-ites were able to experience NFTY-SW annual elections as well as educational programs about Jewish and non-Jewish influences of the past and learn more about themselves through the friends they made. Our May 9 End-of-the-Year Dinner at the Goldmans’ home was a blast — many thanks to Susie and Eddie for opening their home to us! Our year winds down with an afternoon and evening together on Sunday, May 17. We’ll begin with a Leadership Training Institute Planning Meeting at 4:30 pm. It is vital that we get parents and students to attend this meeting to learn about our host duties for October 2009. We will be welcoming a group of NFTY-SW teens for a weekend, and we need your help! The meeting is followed by MSTY Executive Board Elections at 5 pm, and then our final Dine & Discuss, from 6 until 8 pm. To RSVP, visit our calendar online or email Alison Westermann at awestermann@templemountsinai.com or call her at 532-5959. Page 12 Messages from the Mountain Tributes, March 10 - April 20 Rabbi Bach's Discretionary Fund: In appreciation of Rabbi & Alanna Bach by: Jimmy & Anne Spier In appreciation of Rabbi Bach for Emerson Rapp's naming ceremony by: Jason & Eva Rapp In appreciation of Rabbi Bach by: Judi & James Keller In appreciation of Rabbi Bach by: Gerald & Charlene Spielvogel In appreciation of Rabbi Bach by: Marty & Bonnie Colton In appreciation of Rabbi & Alanna Bach by: Myles & Cita Cohen In honor of Helen Goldberg's Special Birthday by: Marty & Jody Klein In honor of Bud Ramenofsky's Special Birthday by: Tibor & Ann Schaechner In memory of Mildred April by: Bob & Jane Rosen In memory of Charlotte Mann by: Bob & Jane Rosen, Carolyn Feinberg, Judy Leonard In memory of George Weiss by: Bob & Jane Rosen In memory of Glenn Chicofsky by: Alan & Lynn Ames In memory of Corinne & Francis Grosse by: Carina Ramirez In memory of Jimmy Given by: Judy Leonard In memory of Marvin Diamond by: Judy Leonard In memory of Frances Eisner Barjansky by: David Eisner In memory of Lawrence Reedman Rose Holland, Kurt Maier, Nancy Heydemann, Harvey & Barbara by: Barbara Berliner Falk, Myles & Cita Cohen, Sara Mansfield, Bill & Miriam Campership Fund: Goldfarb, Sarita Heller, Clara In honor of Peter & Tova Heller & Family, Isabel Schnadig, Herman's new granddaughter, Gershon & Barbara Ettinger, Leah by: Bob & Susie May Leonard & Carol Hoffman, Dori & Adam Goldman, Judy Leonard, In memory of Herbert Given by: Mildred Marcus, Sue BendalIn, Bob & Susie May In memory of Geri Given by: Bud JoAnne McDevitt, Shelly & Carolyn Gopin, Loree Furman, & Charlotte Ramenofsky Jim Levy & Liz Goodman-Levy, Steve & Eve Riter, Norma Caring Community Fund: Levenson, Keith & Becky Myers, Mimi Lait, Daughters of the In memory of Herbert Given by: Republic of Texas Donna Munch, Abe & Annette Goldberg In memory of Jennie Friedman by: Loree Furman In memory of George Weiss by: Cemetery Fund: Jeanette Riter In memory of Herbert Given by: Dick & Jean Scherotter, Stuart & Frances Kahn, Molly Rosen, Marc & Pam Bernat, Carolyn Feinberg, John & Kristine Shecter, Curtis & Jacquelyn Spier, John Gottschalk, Mary Lou Geller, Mickey & Susan Schwartz, Garland & Daphne Head, Arlene Ellenburg, Bud & Charlotte Ramenofsky, Bernie & Judy Lauterbach, Ervin & Beverly Colton, Bill & Anne Spier, Brenda & Herbert Ehrlich, Valerie Barnett, Arthur & Rhoberta Leeser, Joyce Davidoff, Bertha Davidoff, Walter & Theresa Chayes, Anne Hollander, Irma Oppenheim, Julian Bernat, Ed & Nancy Sochat, Lola May, Lewis Frapart, Alan & Jean Kahn, Norman & Cheryl Gordon, Chevrah Kadisha Fund: In appreciation of Chevrah Kadisha by: Marty & Bonnie Colton In honor of Chevrah Kadisha by: Gerald & Charlene Spielvogel In memory of Maurice C. Solomon by: Edward & Helene Solomon CD Project Fund: In appreciation of Larry Bach by: Stanley Rosen Temple appreciates your tribute donations. Call Buddy at 532-5959 to make a contribution. Prepaid Tribute Donations are a convenient way to support the Temple and honor your friends and family. Speak with Buddy in the Temple office about setting up an account. May 2009/Iyyar-Sivan 5769 Page 13 In honor of our great-grandson, Matthew David Stevens by: Arthur & Rhoberta Leeser In honor of Helen Goldberg's Special Birthday by: Nina Baskind In honor of Judy Blumenfeld's Floyd Fierman Religious Special Birthday by: Irene School Fund: Oppenheimer In honor of Pamela Bernat by: In honor of Callie Rose Burton & Cindy Cohen Blumenfeld's Bat Mitzvah by: In memory of George Weiss by: Irene Oppenheimer Ron & Judy Blumenfeld In honor of Kristine & John In memory of Herbert Given by: Shecter’s Special Anniversary by: Jonathan & Ellen Bortz Josh & Sean Shecter In memory of Geri Given by: In memory of Herbert Given by: Mildred Marcus, Ron & Judy Dick & Marlene Fass, Stuart & Blumenfeld Shari Schwartz, Buddy Schwartz, In memory of Marian Warsowe Bill & Marcia Dahlberg, Ruth by: Helen Goldberg, Larry & Braun, Nat & Nanci Maddux, Jim Sandra Baskind & Marian Daross, Dorothy Samuel, Lillian Silberman, Ben & Freidman/Bloom/Rothstein Barbara Rosenberg, Bob & Edi Brannon, Vivienne Corn Outdoor Chapel: In memory of Charlotte Mann by: In honor of Fay & Sid Kligman's Bud & Charlotte Ramenofsky, Special Anniversary by: Phil & Curtis & Jacquelyn Spier, Mary Ann Rothstein Lou Geller, Mickey & Susan In honor of Idell Rothstein's Schwartz, Julia & Polly Special Birthday by: Jerry Bloom Wommack, Alan & Jean Kahn, In honor of Judy Blumenfeld's Abe & Annette Goldberg Special Birthday by: Phil & Ann In memory of Geri Given by: Rothstein John & Stephanie Daresh, Ann In memory of Herbert Given by: Marks, Estelle Goldman, Marty & Phil & Ann Rothstein Bonnie Colton, Jim & Marian Daross, Nancy Heydemann, Mary Yelderman, Bob & Edi Brannon, General Donations Fund: Richard & Marilyn Rotwein, Bill & In appreciation of Ed Solomon by: Miriam Goldfarb, Hy & Marilyn Meyer & Mindy Marcus Silverstein, Vivienne Corn, Bill & In appreciation of Temple Mt. Marcia Dahlberg Sinai by: Douglas Waters In memory of Alice Purvin by: In honor of Sister Blumenthal's Arthur & Rhoberta Leeser, Nat & great-grandson's baby naming by: Nanci Maddux, Hy & Marilyn Norma Levenson Silverstein, Vivienne Corn, Keith & Becky Myers In honor of Simon Bir's Special Birthday by: Ruth Braun In memory of Charlotte Mann by: Paquita Litt In honor of Mimi Lait's Special Birthday by: Tibor & Ann In memory of George Weiss by: Schaechner Edward & Evelyn Schwartz Syd Dictor Music Fund: In memory of Leopold Garas by: Joe Feldberg In memory of Marian K. Warsowe by: Frankie Lerner In memory of Jacob Schut by: Karen Syzdek In memory of Syd Dictor by: Karen Syzdek In memory of Mollie Oliver by: Isabel Schnadig In memory of Anne Ovsay Weiss by: Arthur Weiss In memory of George Weiss by: Nat & Nanci Maddux In memory of Laura Rosenberg by: Alan & Lynn Ames In memory of George Weiss by: Arthur Weiss In memory of Frances Catalano, Heidi Bona Weiss & Janet Susan Weiss by: Arthur Weiss In memory of Elsie Shapiro by: Vivienne Corn In memory of Elayne Bernat by: Ruth Rutledge & Family In memory of George Weiss by: Vivienne Corn In memory of Marvin Diamond by: Isabel Schnadig Speedy recovery to Edward Schwartz by: Gershon & Barbara Ettinger L. A. Goodman Book Fund: Speedy recovery to Eleanor Goodman by: Gershon & Barbara Ettinger Isadore Kahn Memorial Fund: In memory of George Weiss by: Buddy & Ellen Dorfman In memory of Isadore Kahn by: Bill & Miriam Goldfarb In memory of Herbert Given by: Buddy & Ellen Dorfman In memory of Geri Given by: Bill & Miriam Goldfarb Page 14 Messages from the Mountain MAZON Fund: In honor of Judy Blumenfeld's Special Birthday by: Bill & Anne Spier In memory of Herbert Given by: Edward & Evelyn Schwartz, Charlie & Sue Zaltz In memory of Geri Given by: Edward & Evelyn Schwartz, Keith & Becky Myers Ethel Oppenheimer Bima Flower Fund: In appreciation of Rhoberta & Arthur Leeser for their many kindnesses by: Ruth Braun In honor of Rabbi & Alanna Bach's Special Anniversary by: Merrill Krupp In honor of Helen Goldberg's Special Birthday by: Ruth Braun In honor of Idell Rothstein's Special Birthday by: Ruth Braun In honor of Fifi Heller's Special Birthday by: Ruth Braun In memory of Norman F. Stone by: Annette Stone In memory of Jack Morgan by: Cliff & Martha Eisenberg In memory of Charlotte Mann by: Merrill Krupp In memory of Sandi Kern by: Merrill Krupp In memory of Herbert Given by: Merrill Krupp, Jeanne Moye In memory of Elayne Bernat by: Merrill Krupp In memory of Albert Heydemann by: Jack Heydemann In memory of Jean B. Feinberg by: Feinberg Foundation In memory of Geri Given by: Jeanne Moye In memory of David Oscar Leeser by: Arthur & Rhoberta Leeser In memory of Grace Fagelman by: John & Rita Silverman In memory of Milton Goldman by: Debbie Hamlyn In memory of Charlotte Mann by: Bob & Elaine Krasne In memory of George Weiss by: Bob & Elaine Krasne In memory of Herbert Given by: Rita Novak In memory of Millard Krasne by: Bob & Elaine Krasne In memory of Herbert Given by: Bob & Elaine Krasne Ruthie and Andrew Kahn In memory of Charles Given by: Rose Garden Fund: Marty & Bonnie Colton In honor of Ellen Dorfman's Special Birthday by: Scott & Susan In memory of Alice Purvin by: Bob & Elaine Krasne, Bill & Anne Spier, Spier, Stuart & Frances Kahn In memory of Charlotte Mann by: Marty & Bonnie Colton In memory of Jimmy Given by: Buddy & Ellen Dorfman Marty & Bonnie Colton In memory of Herbert Given by: Buddy & Ellen Dorfman Amelia G. Krohn Basic Judaism Collection Fund: Krasne Discretionary Fund: In appreciation of Ellen Goodman In memory of Herbert Given by: for all your support by: Marty & Amelia Krohn Bonnie Colton In honor of Burton Cohen's Special Landscape Special Projects Birthday by: Marty & Bonnie Fund: Colton In honor of Helen Goldberg's In honor of Cindy Graff Cohen's Special Birthday by: Mel & Arlene Special Birthday by: Marty & Levenson Bonnie Colton In honor of Shirley & Bob In honor of Judy Blumenfeld's Goldfarb's great-granddaughter Special Birthday by: Marty & by: Dick & Jean Scherotter Bonnie Colton, Bob & Elaine In honor of Norma Levenson's new Krasne grandbaby, Abigail Levenson by: In honor of Anne & Bill Spier's new Gershon & Barbara Ettinger, Ruth grandson, Ethan Spier by: Bob & Braun Elaine Krasne In memory of Herbert Given by: In honor of Holli Berry’s Special Ruth Oppenheim, Mel & Arlene Birthday by: Marty & Bonnie Levenson Colton In memory of Abe Scherotter by: In honor of Jeryl Marcus' Special Norma Levenson Birthday by: Marty & Bonnie Colton Lauterbach Campership In honor of Mimi Lait's Special Fund: Birthday by: Marty & Bonnie In honor of Bernie Lauterbach's Colton Special Birthday by: Judy Leonard In memory of Mrs. Mark In memory of Geri Given by: Ramenofsky's mother by: Bud & Bernie & Judy Lauterbach Charlotte Ramenofsky In memory of George Weiss by: Bernie & Judy Lauterbach Josh Kahn Endowment For Youth Fund: In memory of Herbert Given by: Sandi & Mike Carpenter In memory of Geri Given by: Sandi & Mike Carpenter In memory of Alice Purvin by: Sandi & Mike Carpenter May 2009/Iyyar-Sivan 5769 Page 15 In memory of Sandy Feldblum by: Larry & Alanna Bach In memory of Linda Falcon by: Rose Falcon In memory of Robert Hughes by: Lila & Arnold Bowman Youth Fund: In honor of Fay & Sid Kligman's Special Anniversary by: Peggy Kligman In memory of Geri Given by: SKIP Fund: Donna Munch In honor of Rick & Leslie Otis by: In memory of Sandi Kern by: Burton & Cindy Cohen Norman & Cheryl Gordon, Judy Jo Ann Rothbardt Petersen Leonard, Texas Employment Healing Resource Center: Special Oneg or Kiddush: Lawyers Association In honor of Mimi Lait's Special In honor of Bud Ramenofsky's In memory of David Bleiberg by: Birthday by: Abe & Annette Special Birthday by: Bill & Marcia Al & Rosalie Bleiberg Goldberg Dahlberg, Matthew & Jane Brenner In memory of Alice Purvin by: In honor of Michael Goldman's In memory of Fred Davidoff by: Peggy Kligman Special Birthday by: Abe & Bert Davidoff, Joyce Davidoff Annette Goldberg In memory of Robert Hughes by: In memory of Lillian Lazovick by: Zork Memorial Library Fund: Arnold & Lila Bowman Paul Lazovick In memory of Geri Given by: In memory of Herbert Given by: Gershon & Barbara Ettinger, Ann In memory of Herbert Given by: Dick & Toni Harris Marks, Judy Leonard, Hal & Linda Bruce & Jackie Gulbas, Phil & Judy In memory of Geri Given by: Dick Ettinger, Ruth Braun Bargman & Toni Harris In memory of Sandi Kern by: Phil In memory of John Shanblum & & Judy Bargman Isadore Kahn by: Stuart & Frances In memory of Charlotte Mann by: Kahn Phil & Judy Bargman, Ed & Lory In memory of Milton D. Feinberg Oppenheimer by: Feinberg Foundation In memory of Pat Hejtmanek by: Judy Rothbardt Tree Of Life Donation: In memory of Herbert Given by: Ed & Lory Oppenheimer In honor of Dorothy Borschow's In memory of Geri Given by: Ed & Special Birthday by: Norma Lory Oppenheimer, Bruce & Jackie Levenson, Joyce Jaffee, Judy Lauterbach, Lillian Silberman, Gulbas Joan Cherno In memory of George Weiss by: Ed & Lory Oppenheimer In memory of James Given by: Ed Rabbi Ken & Sue Weiss URJ Youth Travel Fund: & Lory Oppenheimer In memory of George Weiss by: Speedy recovery to Sis Druxman Dick & Marlene Fass, Bob & Sara by: Abe & Annette Goldberg Shiloff, Bud & Charlotte Ramenofsky, Stuart & Shari Prayer Book Fund: Schwartz, Bill & Marcia Dahlberg, Stuart & Frances Kahn, John & In memory of Charlotte Mann by: Kristine Shecter, Jeannette Riter, Jimmy & Anne Spier In memory of Edwin F. Berliner by: Steve & Eve Riter, Charlie & Sue Zaltz, Joyce Davidoff, Marty & Barbara Berliner Bonnie Colton In memory of Herbert Given by: Jimmy & Anne Spier Stolaroff Fund: In memory of Charlotte Mann by: Steve & Jeremy Potash Temple Mount Sinai 4408 North Stanton Street El Paso, TX 79902 Phone: 915-532-5959 Fax: 915-533-0092 www.templemountsinai.com NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. Postage PAID EL Paso TX Permit No. 1386 Mailing Address goes here Staff Rabbi.......................................................................... Larry Bach Rabbi Emeritus .......................................................... Ken Weiss Administrator ............................................................ Sally Parke Administrative Assistant .................................. Buddy Schwartz Religious School Director ............................................ Grace Bir Outreach Director ................................................... Susan Jaffee Family Educator ......................................................Alanna Bach Youth Advisors ................. Stacy Berry and Alison Westermann Building Manager........................................... Frank Hernandez House Keeping .................................................. Ramona Pinales Accompanist ........................................................ Linda McClain Bulletin Editor ....................................................... Susan Novick Officers David Kern ................................................................... President Shari Schwartz ................................................... President-Elect Marian Daross ...................................................... Vice President Greta Duran.......................................................... Vice President Ellen Goodman .................................................... Vice President Jon Sonnen ........................................................... Vice President Tommy Goldfarb .................................................. Vice President Stephanie Calvo ............................................................ Secretary Marcia Dahlberg................................ Immediate Past President Trustees Rick Amstater, Olivia Chavez, Joyce Davidoff, Scott Feldt, Lori Gaman, Susie Goldman, Jack Heydemann, David Leffman, David Mansfield, Hal Marcus, David Novick Debby Robalin, Nancy Rothschild, Phil Rothstein Temple Mount Sinai is the Reform Jewish congregation serving El Paso, Texas. We are a congregation of supportive, caring and diverse people with a rich history. Temple is a place for prayer, ritual, spirituality, education, wholeness and healing, social action and celebration. Join us as we explore, through these elements of sacred living, the richness of Jewish faith and tradition.
May 2009/Iyyar-Sivan, 5769 Number 603 Shavuot, May 28-29 — Torah-giving Time Z’man Matan Torateinu — “Torah-giving Time” is almost upon us. On Thursday night, May 28, and Friday morning, May 29, we will celebrate Chag Hashavu’ot, the Festival of “Weeks.” So-named because it comes “a week of weeks” after Passover, the earliest references to the holiday link it to ancient Israel’s agricultural calendar. We now celebrate it as the anniversary of our standing at Sinai to enter into an enduring covenant with God. The question is asked: Why do we call Shavuot “Torah-giving Time” and not “Torahreceiving Time? Surely it is z’man kabbalat torateinu as well? The answer: We celebrate the Sinai moment, which happened once upon a time, and which represents God’s gift to us. Our role, receiving Torah, is not a once-and-for-all proposition. At any moment we may receive Torah, by being awake, aware, alive to the truth of that moment. We celebrate z’man matan torateinu, the giving of a particular revelation, at Shavuot; but z’man kabbalat torateinu is forever and always. Temple Mount Sinai will celebrate as follows: on Thursday night, May 28, at 7:30 pm we’ll gather at Congregation B’nai Zion (805 Cherry Hill) for the Festival Evening Service. At the conclusion of the service, Rabbi Bach, Rabbi Leon, and others will teach into the night at a tikkun leil shavu’ot, a late-night study session for the night of Shavuot. On Friday morning, May 29, our Festival Morning Service will begin at Temple at 10:30 am. The liturgical highlights of the Shavuot service include the recitation of the Hallel Psalms, the reading of the Ten Commandments, and the Yizkor Memorial Prayers. A Kiddush with Simon Bir’s renowned blintzes will follow. We look forward to celebrating Z’man Matan Torateinu with you at the end of the month, and Z’man Kabbalat Torateinu all year round! Page 2 Messages from the Mountain Shabbat and Holiday Worship Schedule May 15-16 Parashat Behar-Bechukotai Friday, May 15 Candlelighting, 7:37 pm Oneg Shabbat, 5:45 pm Kabbalat Shabbat Services, 6:15 pm Saturday, May 16 Torah Study, 9:30 am Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 am May 22-23 Parashat Bamidbar Friday, May 22 Candlelighting, 7:42 pm Oneg Shabbat, 5:45 pm Kabbalat Shabbat Services, 6:15 pm Installation of Officers and Trustees Saturday, May 23 Torah Study, 9:30 am Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 am May 28-29 Shavuot Thursday, May 28 Festival Service at Congregation B’nai Zion, 7:30 pm Tikkun Leil Shavuot Study following Friday, May 29 Festival Morning Service at Temple Mount Sinai, 10:30 am, including Yizkor May 29-30 “Shabbat Shavuot” Friday, May 29 Candlelighting, 7:47 pm Oneg Shabbat, 5:45 pm Kabbalat Shabbat Services, 6:15 pm Saturday, May 30 Torah Study, 9:30 am Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 am June 5-6 Parashat Naso Friday, June 5 Candlelighting, 7:50 pm Oneg Shabbat, 5:45 pm Family Shabbat Services, 6:15 pm Saturday, June 6 Torah Study, 9:30 am Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 am June 12-13 Parashat Beha’alotecha Friday, June 12 Candlelighting, 7:54 pm Oneg Shabbat, 5:45 pm Kabbalat Shabbat Services, 6:15 pm Saturday, June 13 Torah Study, 9:30 am Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 am May 2009/Iyyar-Sivan 5769 Page 3 From the Rabbi’s Study... This issue of Messages from the Mountain has a new look — or, more properly, returns to an old look. In place of the smaller booklet-style, we’re going back to a larger format. How is this observation worthy of the Rabbi’s bulletin column, you ask? Read on. We’ve made this change to facilitate printing the bulletin from home. Since the page size is now 8.5 x 11 inches (the paper size most of us keep in our printers), it will be an easy thing to click on a link in an email from Temple and print your own copy of the bulletin if you choose. Or, if it is your habit to read Adobe files (.pdf files) on your screen, you can save the paper entirely. their copy of Messages from the Mountain. People who would like to continue receiving a paper version, in the mail, will be able to do so. We do hope that most of our members will choose to receive a paperless bulletin over time, as the cost savings to Temple will be significant. David Kern is forming an ad hoc committee to explore other ways that technology can help us control costs while providing a better experience for our members. If you have ideas, please share them with him or me. And if you’d like to serve on that committee, which will begin meeting very shortly, with an eye toward completing its work and making a set of You’ve probably figured out where this is recommendations to our Trustees in a matter of months, please let him know going by now: Temple plans to move, in the months ahead, toward generating even that as well. less paper, and spending less on postage, B’shalom, than we do now. We’ve already taken Rabbi Bach many steps to cut down on those costs, making extensive use of email in a number of areas of Temple life. Moving the monthly bulletin toward being an online publication (easily printed for those who choose) is the next step in this evolution. As we make this transition, we want to assure that we won’t leave anyone without Page 4 Messages from the Mountain May Birthdays May 1 Kyle Goldfarb May 2 Lisa Wolff May 3 Susan Bargemann Donald Fertel May 4 Andrew Feinberg Laura Karp Naomi Katz* Sabrina Katz* Eithan Kotkowski* May 5 Clara Bowman May 6 Susan Forbes* Lauren Holderman Marge Lippman Robert Prensky May 8 William Dahlberg May 9 Asher Litt John Mobbs Carol Parker Molly Tennen May 10 Linda Ettinger* Alan Kahn* Herbert Schwartz May 11 Alanna Bach Benjamin Ettinger May 12 Agueda Freundlich Robert Jacobs Kenneth Weiss May 13 Erica Holland* Audrey Louise Loeb Marie Robbins* Harold Soule May 14 David Yates May 15 Evelyn Bellman Samuel Farley Sonya Harris Bettye Kohlhagen Barbara Yarber May 16 Elan Goldstein Robin Kobren Lyndon Mansfield May 17 Lietzie Belford Riley Miner May 18 Colin Burton Madeline Halperin Debra Trejo May 20 Roger Belbel Julian Gonzalez May 21 Marvin Abrams* Drew Frank Leonard Krugman Meyer Marcus May 22 Jackie Heins Isaac Ibarra David Zehden May 23 Shari Schwartz* May 25 Mandy Blumenfeld May 26 Mimmy Halperin* Steve Shapiro May 27 Dorothy Borschow* Levi Meyer* Elaine Rosenbloom Arthur E. Weiss* May 28 Laura Alpern* Julie Mullen Matthew Schonberg May 29 Beatriz Eger Jeffrey Siegel May 31 Maddie Goldfarb* Ann Marks May Anniversaries May 1 Bob & Susie May May 12 Christopher & Amissa Burton May 13 Ellyce & Gil Kimmelman May 14 Arthur & Rhoberta Leeser Mark & Kyta Levitt May 16 Stuart & Nancy Shiloff May 17 Michael & Karla Franco May 18 Soheil & Ellen Nazarian * May 19 Lisa & Marcel Wolff May 23 Greg & Susanne Kligman Bernie & Elaine Rosenbloom May 24 Britt & Heather Chapman Alan & Lori Gaman May 30 John & Rita Silverman Bill & Anne Spier May 31 Bruce & Shelly Gopin Gil & Lauri Holland Lee & Sandy Nadler May 28 May 20 Laura Brannon-Rosales & John & Bea Eger * Steve & Kris Mickenberg * Ricky Rosales May 22 Alan & Cheryl Karp Bob & Jane Snow May 29 Mark & Dori Fenenbock May 2009/Iyyar-Sivan 5769 Page 5 Hamakom Y’nachem—May God Bring Comfort... to Jonathan Purvin, Stacy Berry, Robyn Purvin and Erin Purvin on the death of mother and grandmother, Alice Purvin. to Marian Given on the death of brother-in-law, Jimmy Given. to Stanlee Rubin and Dana Frank on the death of mother and grandmother, Laura Rosenberg. to friends and family on the death of Marvin Diamond. to Lila Bowman on the death of her mother, Consuelo Hughes. to Peggy Feinberg on the death of her father, Frank Mangan. to friends and family on the death of Aghdah Khodadad Tavana. to Mimi Pittle, children and grandchildren on the death of Lillian Lipson. to Steve Spivack on the death of his mother, Ida Spivack. Mazel Tov—Congratulations… to parents Heather and Jeff Jefferson, and grandmother Olivia Chavez, on the birth of Leah Elizabeth Jefferson. to parents Nathan and Leticia Stevens, grandparents Bonnie and Scott Stevens, and great-grandparents Rhoberta and Arthur Leeser on the birth of Matthew David Stevens. to parents Alan Spier and Suzanne Whitaker, and grandparents Anne and Billy Spier, on the birth of Ethan Craig Spier. Leaves and Stones on the Temple’s Tree of Life Do you know that you can honor or remember a loved one with a leaf or a stone on the Tree of Life? This beautiful work of art is displayed on the wall in the foyer at Temple just outside the Sanctuary. For a minimum donation of $300 for a leaf or $3,000 for a stone, the brass will be engraved according to your instructions and will remain on the Tree of Life forever. Your donation becomes part of the Foundation Trust and benefits Temple Mount Sinai in perpetuity. For more information, contact Sally Parke at the Temple office, 532-5959. Page 6 Messages from the Mountain Marcia Dahlberg’s Annual Meeting Remarks - April 22, 2009 Susan Jaffee gave me a pin last year that says “It’s not about the numbers – it’s about the people.” That statement sums up my experience as president these past two years. There are lots of things I could talk about this evening, but most important to me are the sacred relationships that I have made. I thought about talking about what I learned as president, but no one wants to spend the evening here, so I’ve limited my talk to “The Top Ten”: 1) We are so very fortunate to have a dedicated, hard-working professional staff, and I am so thankful to all of them for everything they do at Temple. They are truly a “team” – pitching in to help and fill in for each other when someone is ill or on vacation – always with a smile! Rabbi Bach is definitely one of the brightest, most talented, and hardest-working rabbis in the country. Larry, I have learned so much from working and worshipping with you, and although we won’t be in touch on a day-to-day basis, I look forward to our continuing friendship. Our administrative staff of Sally Parke and Buddy Schwartz along with our Building Manager, Frank Hernandez, and housekeeper Ramona Pineles work so hard to keep Temple running smoothly. For the second year in a row, our building expenses for the fiscal year are below budget. Special thanks to Sally, Buddy, Frank, and Ramona, who have made this happen. Our programming staff consisting of Susan Jaffee, Grace Bir, Alanna Bach, Alison Westermann, and Stacy Purvin Berry continues to grow participation in their particular areas of Outreach, Religious School, Family Education, and Youth, while contributing their talents and enthusiasm in all areas of Temple life. We are so fortunate to have such a wonderful team leading our Temple. Thanks also to Susie Novick who has served as Bulletin editor this past year and to our wonderful accompanist, Linda McClain. 2) Our Temple officers and members of the Board of Trustees have all contributed tirelessly of their time to make important decisions that impact Temple now and in the future. Thanks to Executive Committee members: Ruth Braun, Marian Daross, Tommy Goldfarb, Ellen Goodman, David Kern, Alan Krasne, and Jon Sonnen for always being willing to brainstorm, discuss, and come to a consensus for presentation to the Board. The Board of Trustees had made important decisions this past year, particularly in approving the revised Bylaws that you have heard tonight. Thank you to our outgoing Board members: Ruth Braun, who has served as secretary this past year and has made sure that our minutes and our meetings are as prescribed in the Bylaws; Linda Fruithandler, who is completing a second term on the Board and has shown all of us how to welcome our members and guests to Temple; and Mark Levitt, who always asks the thought-provoking questions that make us think. We will miss all of you and hope that you will continue your involvement in Temple. Past President Alan Krasne is completing his formal board service but has promised to continue his involvement in finances as well as other areas of Temple life. Alan, your advice (Continued on page 7) May 2009/Iyyar-Sivan 5769 (Continued from page 6) Page 7 has been so valuable, and please know that you are always welcome to attend Board meetings. 3) Our Past Presidents are an invaluable resource and always ready to help – whether by chairing or serving on a committee or project or answering questions and offering advice. I appreciate all of you! 4) We are so privileged to have our Sh’lichim (Synagogue Associates), Ellen Goodman, Ed Solomon, and Tina Wolfe who ably lead congregational services, officiate at life cycle events, and help in so many ways, as assistants to Rabbi Bach and as our leaders when Rabbi Bach is away. I extend my sincere thanks to all of you for your ongoing commitment to Temple. On behalf of the congregation, thank you for everything you do for all of us. 6) I have learned how important the support of my family has been over these past two years. To my husband, Bill, who has been so understanding of my Temple commitments, and who has lately been spending as much time as I have at Temple, either in the rose garden or the kitchen - thank you for all of your love, support, and advice. And to my parents, Charlotte and Bud – thank you for your love and for always being here to model, to advise, and to participate and attend almost everything that happens at Temple. 7 ) I have learned that change takes time, but I have suddenly realized how much has been accomplished in the past two years: We have approved and completed the following improvements to our building and grounds: a 5) Temple Mount Sinai is thriving because of the new, energy efficient heating and cooling system wonderful members and volunteers who for the office wing; replacement of parking comprise our Temple family. Thanks to everyone blocks outside of Zielonka Hall; safety plexiwho has contributed to Temple in the past two glass covering of the Hal Marcus windows in years, including the following members of the Zielonka Hall; renovation of the kitchen; Temple community: landscaping the corner of Kenyon Joyce and Stanton and placement of the sign; reTemple staff, including Religious School landscaping of the courtyard in front of the teachers and assistants, the Sh’lichim, Temple Sanctuary. officers, Board of Trustees, Past Presidents, Office Volunteers, Religious School volunteers, We have made important financial decisions committee chairs, and everyone who has served including: completed a lease agreement with Ton one or more of the following committees and Mobile to build a cell tower on our property that projects: Foundation Trust, Perpetual Care, will help on the income side of our financial Shared Vision, Chevra Kadisha, Caring statement for years to come; approved an Community, Border Interfaith, Care Teams, investment policy for Temple’s Foundation Membership, Casino Night, Youth and Trust Committee; approved balanced budgets Education, WRJ, MRJ, Building and Grounds, and hope to end this fiscal year as we did the last Second Seder, Lunch and Learn, Shir Chadash, one – in the black; completed the formal phase Knitzvah, 10th Anniversary, Gift Shop, sponsors of our Shared Vision Campaign with pledges and of our Shabbat flowers, an Oneg Shabbat, bequests totaling $3.8 million, a wonderful Kiddush, or Lunch and Learn. (Continued on page 8) Page 8 Messages from the Mountain (Continued from page 7) legacy for this congregation; held two consecutive years of successful Casino Night Fundraisers that have helped to balance our budgets. Other important decisions made by the Board of Trustees include: a Conflict of Interest Policy; a long overdue revision of our bylaws; and approval of the use of our chapel on Sunday mornings by members of St. Francis on the Hill Episcopal Church. 8) I feel that our most important accomplishment during the past year was the adoption of Rabbi Bach’s new continuing contract and the ensuing 10th Anniversary Celebration last December. What a wonderful evening! but this year Rabbi Bach reminded me that the Hebrew month of Nisan is actually the first month of the Hebrew calendar which is something our forefathers must have known when they scheduled this “change of command.” 10) And finally, I’ve learned that it is time for new leadership. I am so excited about the outstanding slate of officers and board members we will be electing and know that, with David Kern’s leadership, Temple will continue to prosper and grow. The past two years have been both challenging and rewarding. Serving as president of Temple Mount Sinai is an honor, a commitment, and an education. My life has been enriched by the experiences I have had, but mostly, by the people I have encountered along the way. 9) I’ve often wondered why Temple’s Annual Thank you for the opportunity and for your Meeting and election of officers occurs in what support. seems like the middle of the year – it isn’t done with the calendar year, it doesn’t match our fiscal year, and it’s not on a school year calendar, Casino Night a Great Success! Temple’s Casino Night Fundraiser was a huge success, thanks to the efforts of the volunteers who made it happen and to those who attended. With some monies still to be received, it looks as though we raised about $8,700. Special thanks to the Casino Night Committee chaired by Past President Jaime Papa and composed of Rabbi Larry Bach, Burton and Cindy Cohen, Marcia Dahlberg, Marian and Jim Daross, Joyce Davidoff, Scott and Angela Feldt, Ellen Goodman, Susan Jaffee, Randee Mansfield, Debbie and Ronald Marcus, and Sally Parke. A large number of people and businesses contributed to Casino Night in various ways, and they are all appreciated. They are acknowledged on the facing page, with gratitude. May 2009/Iyyar-Sivan 5769 Page 9 Decorations Angela Feldt, chair Scott Feldt Prizes and Auction Items Ellen Goodman, chair Alanna Bach Burton Cohen Marcia and Bill Dahlberg Marian and Jim Daross Susan Jaffee Debbie Marcus Susie Novick Jaime Papa Sally Parke Buddy Schwartz Underwriters Sally Parke Signage Cindy Graff-Cohen Hors d’oeuvres and Desserts Grace and Simon Bir Bill Dahlberg Correspondence Joyce Davidoff Servers – UTEP Hillel Students Rebecca Washer Auctioneer David Pearlman MSTY Childcare Alison Westermann, co-chair Stacy Purvin Berry, co-chair Shana Levin Nate Benjamin Kaylen Duran Cheyanne Mickenberg Auction Items and Prizes Donated by: 2900 Al Varela Alamo Auto Supply Araceli Gallegos, Daniel’s Hair Salon Casa Frost Guesthouse in Santa Fe Chocolat Coffee Emporium El Paso Icons El Paso Playhouse Famous Dave’s Greenery Hal Marcus Gallery Household Furniture Hurricane Gussie’s J. Edwards Jewelry Jacqui Hair Salon Jenny Meyers Kern Place Florist Mark Schrier Mi Piaci Pizzazz Sheldon Jewelry Simon and Grace Bir Susan Eisen Fine Jewelry & Watches Temple Mount Sinai Gift Shop West End Hair Company A very special thank you to the following businesses and families for supporting Casino Night: Underwriters Lauterbach Financial Martin Funeral Home PC Automated Controls Prime Irrigation Wells Fargo Insurance Zamorano’s Monuments EPR Contractors Goldfarb Financial RJL Real Estate Consultants Larry and Alanna Bach Bill and Marcia Dahlberg David and Susie Novick Bob and Elaine Krasne Tibor and Ann Schaechner David and Tina Wolfe Gifts In Kind Eureka Media Group Margaritas To Go Mission Linen Supply National Restaurant Supply Spectrum Imaging Page 10 Messages from the Mountain From the Religious School... Parents And Grandparents – You are cordially invited to join us at 11:15 am on May 17th (last day of Religious School) for a cookout which is generously sponsored by David and Donna Leffman. This year has been an impressive school year at the Religious School. Through their hard work, dedication, creative abilities, flexibility in programming changes, devotion to our students and love of Judaism, our faculty and substitutes have made this school year a tremendous success. Together we will continue to make positive changes for the upcoming Religious School year and beyond. Along with our CHAI and Mitkadem Hebrew curriculum, we included a Holocaust curriculum, a Mock Shabbat, and a Model Seder for our 7th and 8th grade students. There was an increase in attendance at our Parent and Grandparent Days. We had four successful Family Events, a very well attended Jewish Cultural Celebration and we exceeded our goal of raising $1,000 for our special Tzedakah Project for “A Package From Home” by $350! We also raised a few dollars by selling snacks before Hebrew classes on Wednesdays. During a number of Friday night services, our students participated by leading us in prayer. Twenty-two new students were recognized and welcomed to our Religious School during our Consecration Service this school year. During our after-school Enrichment classes, students created beautiful keepsake art pieces and had a whopping good time cooking Jewish foods. Special thanks go out to Sylvia Krapin, Mary Ann Plaut, Rebecca and Alan Krasne, Anat Rieter, Helene Solomon, Haidi Appel, and David Leffman for their involvement and contributions that helps our Religious School run so smoothly and successfully. Appreciation also goes to the Temple’s Gift Shop for its generous support to the Religious School throughout the year. Your suggestions and comments are greatly appreciated, and Education Director Grace Bir would love to hear from you regarding our Religious School programming. May 2009/Iyyar-Sivan 5769 Page 11 Mini-MSTY Activities Round Out the Year The Chocolate Seder was another big hit this year! Thanks go to many people for many reasons: To the planning committee - Ali Gluck, Helaine Bach and Lydia Duran - this year’s Chocolate Seder was a great success because of your thoughtful advice and leadership To Stacy Berry, Kaylen Duran, Stanley Ross and Leah Gluck, for helping out both before and during the Seder itself. To Alanna Bach, Stanley Ross and Michelle Blumenfeld, who provided dinner – yum! Our year wrapped up earlier this month with a Mitzvah Scavenger Hunt and the End-of-the-Year Dinner. B’nai Torah and NFTY-SW Spring Kallah High school students spent April studying social justice texts, the Haggadah and discussing the connections between Yom HaShoah and Yom HaAtzmaut. For more information about any of these topics, please ask any of our Temple teens! NFTY-SW Spring Kallah has come and gone, leaving a new regional board and very inspired MSTY-ites! Nine teens came back from Phoenix with even more passion and dedication to their home TYG (Temple Youth Group) than they had before. Each one of the teens enjoyed themselves fully. The teens cannot wait for the next conclave, which will be NFTY-SW Fall Kallah, held from August 27-30th at Camp Charles Pearlstein in Prescott, AZ. During Spring Kallah, MSTY-ites were able to experience NFTY-SW annual elections as well as educational programs about Jewish and non-Jewish influences of the past and learn more about themselves through the friends they made. Our May 9 End-of-the-Year Dinner at the Goldmans’ home was a blast — many thanks to Susie and Eddie for opening their home to us! Our year winds down with an afternoon and evening together on Sunday, May 17. We’ll begin with a Leadership Training Institute Planning Meeting at 4:30 pm. It is vital that we get parents and students to attend this meeting to learn about our host duties for October 2009. We will be welcoming a group of NFTY-SW teens for a weekend, and we need your help! The meeting is followed by MSTY Executive Board Elections at 5 pm, and then our final Dine & Discuss, from 6 until 8 pm. To RSVP, visit our calendar online or email Alison Westermann at awestermann@templemountsinai.com or call her at 532-5959. Page 12 Messages from the Mountain Tributes, March 10 - April 20 Rabbi Bach's Discretionary Fund: In appreciation of Rabbi & Alanna Bach by: Jimmy & Anne Spier In appreciation of Rabbi Bach for Emerson Rapp's naming ceremony by: Jason & Eva Rapp In appreciation of Rabbi Bach by: Judi & James Keller In appreciation of Rabbi Bach by: Gerald & Charlene Spielvogel In appreciation of Rabbi Bach by: Marty & Bonnie Colton In appreciation of Rabbi & Alanna Bach by: Myles & Cita Cohen In honor of Helen Goldberg's Special Birthday by: Marty & Jody Klein In honor of Bud Ramenofsky's Special Birthday by: Tibor & Ann Schaechner In memory of Mildred April by: Bob & Jane Rosen In memory of Charlotte Mann by: Bob & Jane Rosen, Carolyn Feinberg, Judy Leonard In memory of George Weiss by: Bob & Jane Rosen In memory of Glenn Chicofsky by: Alan & Lynn Ames In memory of Corinne & Francis Grosse by: Carina Ramirez In memory of Jimmy Given by: Judy Leonard In memory of Marvin Diamond by: Judy Leonard In memory of Frances Eisner Barjansky by: David Eisner In memory of Lawrence Reedman Rose Holland, Kurt Maier, Nancy Heydemann, Harvey & Barbara by: Barbara Berliner Falk, Myles & Cita Cohen, Sara Mansfield, Bill & Miriam Campership Fund: Goldfarb, Sarita Heller, Clara In honor of Peter & Tova Heller & Family, Isabel Schnadig, Herman's new granddaughter, Gershon & Barbara Ettinger, Leah by: Bob & Susie May Leonard & Carol Hoffman, Dori & Adam Goldman, Judy Leonard, In memory of Herbert Given by: Mildred Marcus, Sue BendalIn, Bob & Susie May In memory of Geri Given by: Bud JoAnne McDevitt, Shelly & Carolyn Gopin, Loree Furman, & Charlotte Ramenofsky Jim Levy & Liz Goodman-Levy, Steve & Eve Riter, Norma Caring Community Fund: Levenson, Keith & Becky Myers, Mimi Lait, Daughters of the In memory of Herbert Given by: Republic of Texas Donna Munch, Abe & Annette Goldberg In memory of Jennie Friedman by: Loree Furman In memory of George Weiss by: Cemetery Fund: Jeanette Riter In memory of Herbert Given by: Dick & Jean Scherotter, Stuart & Frances Kahn, Molly Rosen, Marc & Pam Bernat, Carolyn Feinberg, John & Kristine Shecter, Curtis & Jacquelyn Spier, John Gottschalk, Mary Lou Geller, Mickey & Susan Schwartz, Garland & Daphne Head, Arlene Ellenburg, Bud & Charlotte Ramenofsky, Bernie & Judy Lauterbach, Ervin & Beverly Colton, Bill & Anne Spier, Brenda & Herbert Ehrlich, Valerie Barnett, Arthur & Rhoberta Leeser, Joyce Davidoff, Bertha Davidoff, Walter & Theresa Chayes, Anne Hollander, Irma Oppenheim, Julian Bernat, Ed & Nancy Sochat, Lola May, Lewis Frapart, Alan & Jean Kahn, Norman & Cheryl Gordon, Chevrah Kadisha Fund: In appreciation of Chevrah Kadisha by: Marty & Bonnie Colton In honor of Chevrah Kadisha by: Gerald & Charlene Spielvogel In memory of Maurice C. Solomon by: Edward & Helene Solomon CD Project Fund: In appreciation of Larry Bach by: Stanley Rosen Temple appreciates your tribute donations. Call Buddy at 532-5959 to make a contribution. Prepaid Tribute Donations are a convenient way to support the Temple and honor your friends and family. Speak with Buddy in the Temple office about setting up an account. May 2009/Iyyar-Sivan 5769 Page 13 In honor of our great-grandson, Matthew David Stevens by: Arthur & Rhoberta Leeser In honor of Helen Goldberg's Special Birthday by: Nina Baskind In honor of Judy Blumenfeld's Floyd Fierman Religious Special Birthday by: Irene School Fund: Oppenheimer In honor of Pamela Bernat by: In honor of Callie Rose Burton & Cindy Cohen Blumenfeld's Bat Mitzvah by: In memory of George Weiss by: Irene Oppenheimer Ron & Judy Blumenfeld In honor of Kristine & John In memory of Herbert Given by: Shecter’s Special Anniversary by: Jonathan & Ellen Bortz Josh & Sean Shecter In memory of Geri Given by: In memory of Herbert Given by: Mildred Marcus, Ron & Judy Dick & Marlene Fass, Stuart & Blumenfeld Shari Schwartz, Buddy Schwartz, In memory of Marian Warsowe Bill & Marcia Dahlberg, Ruth by: Helen Goldberg, Larry & Braun, Nat & Nanci Maddux, Jim Sandra Baskind & Marian Daross, Dorothy Samuel, Lillian Silberman, Ben & Freidman/Bloom/Rothstein Barbara Rosenberg, Bob & Edi Brannon, Vivienne Corn Outdoor Chapel: In memory of Charlotte Mann by: In honor of Fay & Sid Kligman's Bud & Charlotte Ramenofsky, Special Anniversary by: Phil & Curtis & Jacquelyn Spier, Mary Ann Rothstein Lou Geller, Mickey & Susan In honor of Idell Rothstein's Schwartz, Julia & Polly Special Birthday by: Jerry Bloom Wommack, Alan & Jean Kahn, In honor of Judy Blumenfeld's Abe & Annette Goldberg Special Birthday by: Phil & Ann In memory of Geri Given by: Rothstein John & Stephanie Daresh, Ann In memory of Herbert Given by: Marks, Estelle Goldman, Marty & Phil & Ann Rothstein Bonnie Colton, Jim & Marian Daross, Nancy Heydemann, Mary Yelderman, Bob & Edi Brannon, General Donations Fund: Richard & Marilyn Rotwein, Bill & In appreciation of Ed Solomon by: Miriam Goldfarb, Hy & Marilyn Meyer & Mindy Marcus Silverstein, Vivienne Corn, Bill & In appreciation of Temple Mt. Marcia Dahlberg Sinai by: Douglas Waters In memory of Alice Purvin by: In honor of Sister Blumenthal's Arthur & Rhoberta Leeser, Nat & great-grandson's baby naming by: Nanci Maddux, Hy & Marilyn Norma Levenson Silverstein, Vivienne Corn, Keith & Becky Myers In honor of Simon Bir's Special Birthday by: Ruth Braun In memory of Charlotte Mann by: Paquita Litt In honor of Mimi Lait's Special Birthday by: Tibor & Ann In memory of George Weiss by: Schaechner Edward & Evelyn Schwartz Syd Dictor Music Fund: In memory of Leopold Garas by: Joe Feldberg In memory of Marian K. Warsowe by: Frankie Lerner In memory of Jacob Schut by: Karen Syzdek In memory of Syd Dictor by: Karen Syzdek In memory of Mollie Oliver by: Isabel Schnadig In memory of Anne Ovsay Weiss by: Arthur Weiss In memory of George Weiss by: Nat & Nanci Maddux In memory of Laura Rosenberg by: Alan & Lynn Ames In memory of George Weiss by: Arthur Weiss In memory of Frances Catalano, Heidi Bona Weiss & Janet Susan Weiss by: Arthur Weiss In memory of Elsie Shapiro by: Vivienne Corn In memory of Elayne Bernat by: Ruth Rutledge & Family In memory of George Weiss by: Vivienne Corn In memory of Marvin Diamond by: Isabel Schnadig Speedy recovery to Edward Schwartz by: Gershon & Barbara Ettinger L. A. Goodman Book Fund: Speedy recovery to Eleanor Goodman by: Gershon & Barbara Ettinger Isadore Kahn Memorial Fund: In memory of George Weiss by: Buddy & Ellen Dorfman In memory of Isadore Kahn by: Bill & Miriam Goldfarb In memory of Herbert Given by: Buddy & Ellen Dorfman In memory of Geri Given by: Bill & Miriam Goldfarb Page 14 Messages from the Mountain MAZON Fund: In honor of Judy Blumenfeld's Special Birthday by: Bill & Anne Spier In memory of Herbert Given by: Edward & Evelyn Schwartz, Charlie & Sue Zaltz In memory of Geri Given by: Edward & Evelyn Schwartz, Keith & Becky Myers Ethel Oppenheimer Bima Flower Fund: In appreciation of Rhoberta & Arthur Leeser for their many kindnesses by: Ruth Braun In honor of Rabbi & Alanna Bach's Special Anniversary by: Merrill Krupp In honor of Helen Goldberg's Special Birthday by: Ruth Braun In honor of Idell Rothstein's Special Birthday by: Ruth Braun In honor of Fifi Heller's Special Birthday by: Ruth Braun In memory of Norman F. Stone by: Annette Stone In memory of Jack Morgan by: Cliff & Martha Eisenberg In memory of Charlotte Mann by: Merrill Krupp In memory of Sandi Kern by: Merrill Krupp In memory of Herbert Given by: Merrill Krupp, Jeanne Moye In memory of Elayne Bernat by: Merrill Krupp In memory of Albert Heydemann by: Jack Heydemann In memory of Jean B. Feinberg by: Feinberg Foundation In memory of Geri Given by: Jeanne Moye In memory of David Oscar Leeser by: Arthur & Rhoberta Leeser In memory of Grace Fagelman by: John & Rita Silverman In memory of Milton Goldman by: Debbie Hamlyn In memory of Charlotte Mann by: Bob & Elaine Krasne In memory of George Weiss by: Bob & Elaine Krasne In memory of Herbert Given by: Rita Novak In memory of Millard Krasne by: Bob & Elaine Krasne In memory of Herbert Given by: Bob & Elaine Krasne Ruthie and Andrew Kahn In memory of Charles Given by: Rose Garden Fund: Marty & Bonnie Colton In honor of Ellen Dorfman's Special Birthday by: Scott & Susan In memory of Alice Purvin by: Bob & Elaine Krasne, Bill & Anne Spier, Spier, Stuart & Frances Kahn In memory of Charlotte Mann by: Marty & Bonnie Colton In memory of Jimmy Given by: Buddy & Ellen Dorfman Marty & Bonnie Colton In memory of Herbert Given by: Buddy & Ellen Dorfman Amelia G. Krohn Basic Judaism Collection Fund: Krasne Discretionary Fund: In appreciation of Ellen Goodman In memory of Herbert Given by: for all your support by: Marty & Amelia Krohn Bonnie Colton In honor of Burton Cohen's Special Landscape Special Projects Birthday by: Marty & Bonnie Fund: Colton In honor of Helen Goldberg's In honor of Cindy Graff Cohen's Special Birthday by: Mel & Arlene Special Birthday by: Marty & Levenson Bonnie Colton In honor of Shirley & Bob In honor of Judy Blumenfeld's Goldfarb's great-granddaughter Special Birthday by: Marty & by: Dick & Jean Scherotter Bonnie Colton, Bob & Elaine In honor of Norma Levenson's new Krasne grandbaby, Abigail Levenson by: In honor of Anne & Bill Spier's new Gershon & Barbara Ettinger, Ruth grandson, Ethan Spier by: Bob & Braun Elaine Krasne In memory of Herbert Given by: In honor of Holli Berry’s Special Ruth Oppenheim, Mel & Arlene Birthday by: Marty & Bonnie Levenson Colton In memory of Abe Scherotter by: In honor of Jeryl Marcus' Special Norma Levenson Birthday by: Marty & Bonnie Colton Lauterbach Campership In honor of Mimi Lait's Special Fund: Birthday by: Marty & Bonnie In honor of Bernie Lauterbach's Colton Special Birthday by: Judy Leonard In memory of Mrs. Mark In memory of Geri Given by: Ramenofsky's mother by: Bud & Bernie & Judy Lauterbach Charlotte Ramenofsky In memory of George Weiss by: Bernie & Judy Lauterbach Josh Kahn Endowment For Youth Fund: In memory of Herbert Given by: Sandi & Mike Carpenter In memory of Geri Given by: Sandi & Mike Carpenter In memory of Alice Purvin by: Sandi & Mike Carpenter May 2009/Iyyar-Sivan 5769 Page 15 In memory of Sandy Feldblum by: Larry & Alanna Bach In memory of Linda Falcon by: Rose Falcon In memory of Robert Hughes by: Lila & Arnold Bowman Youth Fund: In honor of Fay & Sid Kligman's Special Anniversary by: Peggy Kligman In memory of Geri Given by: SKIP Fund: Donna Munch In honor of Rick & Leslie Otis by: In memory of Sandi Kern by: Burton & Cindy Cohen Norman & Cheryl Gordon, Judy Jo Ann Rothbardt Petersen Leonard, Texas Employment Healing Resource Center: Special Oneg or Kiddush: Lawyers Association In honor of Mimi Lait's Special In honor of Bud Ramenofsky's In memory of David Bleiberg by: Birthday by: Abe & Annette Special Birthday by: Bill & Marcia Al & Rosalie Bleiberg Goldberg Dahlberg, Matthew & Jane Brenner In memory of Alice Purvin by: In honor of Michael Goldman's In memory of Fred Davidoff by: Peggy Kligman Special Birthday by: Abe & Bert Davidoff, Joyce Davidoff Annette Goldberg In memory of Robert Hughes by: In memory of Lillian Lazovick by: Zork Memorial Library Fund: Arnold & Lila Bowman Paul Lazovick In memory of Geri Given by: In memory of Herbert Given by: Gershon & Barbara Ettinger, Ann In memory of Herbert Given by: Dick & Toni Harris Marks, Judy Leonard, Hal & Linda Bruce & Jackie Gulbas, Phil & Judy In memory of Geri Given by: Dick Ettinger, Ruth Braun Bargman & Toni Harris In memory of Sandi Kern by: Phil In memory of John Shanblum & & Judy Bargman Isadore Kahn by: Stuart & Frances In memory of Charlotte Mann by: Kahn Phil & Judy Bargman, Ed & Lory In memory of Milton D. Feinberg Oppenheimer by: Feinberg Foundation In memory of Pat Hejtmanek by: Judy Rothbardt Tree Of Life Donation: In memory of Herbert Given by: Ed & Lory Oppenheimer In honor of Dorothy Borschow's In memory of Geri Given by: Ed & Special Birthday by: Norma Lory Oppenheimer, Bruce & Jackie Levenson, Joyce Jaffee, Judy Lauterbach, Lillian Silberman, Gulbas Joan Cherno In memory of George Weiss by: Ed & Lory Oppenheimer In memory of James Given by: Ed Rabbi Ken & Sue Weiss URJ Youth Travel Fund: & Lory Oppenheimer In memory of George Weiss by: Speedy recovery to Sis Druxman Dick & Marlene Fass, Bob & Sara by: Abe & Annette Goldberg Shiloff, Bud & Charlotte Ramenofsky, Stuart & Shari Prayer Book Fund: Schwartz, Bill & Marcia Dahlberg, Stuart & Frances Kahn, John & In memory of Charlotte Mann by: Kristine Shecter, Jeannette Riter, Jimmy & Anne Spier In memory of Edwin F. Berliner by: Steve & Eve Riter, Charlie & Sue Zaltz, Joyce Davidoff, Marty & Barbara Berliner Bonnie Colton In memory of Herbert Given by: Jimmy & Anne Spier Stolaroff Fund: In memory of Charlotte Mann by: Steve & Jeremy Potash Temple Mount Sinai 4408 North Stanton Street El Paso, TX 79902 Phone: 915-532-5959 Fax: 915-533-0092 www.templemountsinai.com NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. Postage PAID EL Paso TX Permit No. 1386 Mailing Address goes here Staff Rabbi.......................................................................... Larry Bach Rabbi Emeritus .......................................................... Ken Weiss Administrator ............................................................ Sally Parke Administrative Assistant .................................. Buddy Schwartz Religious School Director ............................................ Grace Bir Outreach Director ................................................... Susan Jaffee Family Educator ......................................................Alanna Bach Youth Advisors ................. Stacy Berry and Alison Westermann Building Manager........................................... Frank Hernandez House Keeping .................................................. Ramona Pinales Accompanist ........................................................ Linda McClain Bulletin Editor ....................................................... Susan Novick Officers David Kern ................................................................... President Shari Schwartz ................................................... President-Elect Marian Daross ...................................................... Vice President Greta Duran.......................................................... Vice President Ellen Goodman .................................................... Vice President Jon Sonnen ........................................................... Vice President Tommy Goldfarb .................................................. Vice President Stephanie Calvo ............................................................ Secretary Marcia Dahlberg................................ Immediate Past President Trustees Rick Amstater, Olivia Chavez, Joyce Davidoff, Scott Feldt, Lori Gaman, Susie Goldman, Jack Heydemann, David Leffman, David Mansfield, Hal Marcus, David Novick Debby Robalin, Nancy Rothschild, Phil Rothstein Temple Mount Sinai is the Reform Jewish congregation serving El Paso, Texas. We are a congregation of supportive, caring and diverse people with a rich history. Temple is a place for prayer, ritual, spirituality, education, wholeness and healing, social action and celebration. Join us as we explore, through these elements of sacred living, the richness of Jewish faith and tradition.