Israeli activist Anat Hoffman to speak at Temple Beth Emeth JCC Auction celebrates 25th ...

36 Pages·2011·7.38 MB·English

In this issue…
Washtenaw Jewish News Presort Standard
c/o Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor U.S. Postage PAID
2939 Birch Hollow Drive Ann Arbor, MI
Ann Arbor, MI 48108 Permit No. 85
It's Adar– Rabbi Levy Habonim
Be Happy! On the Road U-M
Bayit
Page 8
and 14
and 15 Page 11 Page 7
March 2011 AdarI/AdarII 5770 Volume XXXV: Number 6 FREE
Israeli activist Anat Hoffman to speak at Temple Beth Emeth
Leading expert on Israel’s
Arab minority community
Rabbi Lisa Delson, special to the WJN
A n at Hoffman, executive director of to speak March 22
the Religious Action Center and
founder of Women of the Wall, Eileen Freed, special to the WJN
will present an evening of learning at Temple Elie Rekhess, one of Israel’s leading
Beth Emeth on Tuesday, April 5. The Sidney experts on the Arab minority in Is-
Davidson Memorial Scholar-in-Residence rael, will speak Tuesday, March 22,
Fund at Temple Beth Emeth affords the at 7:30 p.m., at the Jewish Community Cen-
congregation the opportunity to bring in an ter of Greater
outstanding scholar each year. The inaugural Ann Arbor. The
speaker was Thomas Friedman in 2008 and program, “Why
TBE is proud to continue the tradition with Israeli Arabs are
Anat Hoffman, Israeli trailblazer on issues of a Jewish Issue:
social justice for all in Israel. What Can the
Anat Hoffman became executive direc- North American
tor of the Israel Religious Action Center in Jewish Com-
April 2002. Hoffman guides IRAC in its work munity Do to
to promote Jewish pluralism, tolerance, and Ensure a Jewish
equality and to combat racism, corruption, and Democratic Elie Rekhess
and religious coercion. Israel,” is spon-
In Jerusalem, a city where women are tra- sored by the Jewish Federation of Greater
ditionally consigned to a subordinate role, Ann Arbor in conjunction with the Inter-
Hoffman led in the battles for the right of Agency Task Force on Israeli Arab Issues.
women to pray at the Western Wall and for Rekhess, Visiting Crown Chair in Middle
women’s equal pay for equal work. Hoffman Eastern Studies at Northwestern University,
pushed relentlessly for the provision of ad- A woman reading Torah at the Western Wall in Jerusalem will discuss the history of Jewish-Arab rela-
equate municipal services for the more than tions in Israel, the current state of Israel’s
and Peace Movement on the Jerusalem City Hoffman was born in Jerusalem and in her
200,000 Palestinian residents of Jerusalem. Arab minority, and the role the American
Council. She specialized in attending to the teens was an Israeli swimming champion. Af-
She has fought long and hard to see that the Jewish community has in ameliorating in-
details of municipal administration, where ter army service, she received her bachelor of
powerful Orthodox bloc in the City Council equalities in Israeli society. Neal Elyakin,
big decisions are often hidden away in the sciences degree in psychology at the Univer-
does not dictate lifestyle choices for the sec- Federation past president, participated in a
fine print. In doing so, she became a familiar sity of California in Los Angeles and then pur-
ular population of Jerusalem. Significantly, study tour in Israel organized by the Task
figure in the Supreme Court, as she pursued sued graduate studies at Bar Ilan University.
too, in a city split by religious differences, she Force last May. “During my week long visit
her quest for information that the bureau- Hoffman was a founding member of Women
has fought tirelessly for religious pluralism. to Israel, I heard disturbing facts and sto-
cracy preferred to keep secret.
Hoffman represented the Civil Rights ries about how this remarkable country,
continued on page 14
my country, treats 20 percent of its popu-
lation….. I also talked with advocates of
JCC Auction celebrates 25th anniversary, honors Leslie Bash
change, from Knesset members to commu-
nity advocates who, despite the burdens,
Halye Aisner, special to the WJN continue to believe that Israel is their home,
The Jewish Community Center of tographic sessions; Judaica; tickets to cultur- their nation, and that they have something
Greater Ann Arbor’s 2011 Gala Auc- al and entertainment events; clothing; and to contribute.” He emphasizes the impor-
tion will take place Sunday evening, home and food items. tance of the local Jewish community’s
March 27, at 6 p.m., at the JCC. The event Sponsorships are available, which entitle involvement addressing inequality. “We
will celebrate the JCC’s 25th anniversary and contributors to tickets to the event and ads in can help here in the Diaspora by learning
will honor Executive Director Leslie Bash on the auction program. Auction tickets are $50 about the issues and supporting the plural-
her retirement after almost 10 years of ser- per person. In addition, there will be a Kids’ ism issues funded by Federation. Professor
vice. There will be raffle items and both live Night Out Program at the JCC. continued on page 27
and silent auctions. Dinner will be catered by For further information about auction
Simply Scrumptious Catering. The evening’s admission, sponsorships, Kids’ Night Out,
More on Executive Director
auctioneer will be Dr. David Magidson. or to donate goods and services, contact
Auction items include vacation and travel Rachael Shifrin ([email protected]) Leslie Bash’s Retirement
offers; sports memorabilia; restaurant gift or Rebekah Gamble (rebekahgamble@jccfed.
Page 3
certificates; books; jewelry; art; lessons; pho- Andy Rudick bids at last year’s Auction org) or call 971-0990. n
I
Community
2935 Birch Hollow Drive
Iman: Synagogue protest “un-Islamic”
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108
voice: 734/971-1800
fax: [phone]
Yet local Muslim teacher has been at the fore
e-mail: [email protected]
WJN staff writers www.washtenawjewishnews.org
The weekly harassment of Jewish congregant’s suicide following harassment
families arriving for Sabbath services for her beliefs at school. Mary Beijan of the
outside Beth Israel Congregation in ACLU addressed first amendment issues as Editor and Publisher
Ann Arbor is “un-Islamic” in the judgment the invited panelists took turns discussing Susan Kravitz Ayer
of Imam Dawud Walid of the Council on local challenges of living up to the ideal of
Calendar Editor
American-Islamic
Claire Sandler
Relations-Michigan.
Walid denounced the Advertising Manager
disrespectful action— Gordon White
now in its eighth year—
in his remarks at a Design and Layout
panel discussion billed Dennis Platte
as “Can I Get Some Re-
Staff Writer
spect? Flashpoints and
Sandor Slomovits
Controversies On Re-
ligious Freedom,” held Contributing Writers
at the Ann Arbor Pub- Aura Ahuvia, Halye Aisner, Toby Axelrod, Leslie
lic Library on January Bash, Jacob Berkman, Dasee Berkowitz, Rabbi
Lisa Delson, Rabbi Robert Dobrusin, Emily
13, 2011. The imam
Eisbruch, Julie Ellis, Sue Fishkoff, Eileen Freed,
described incidents
Karen Freedland, Julie Gales, Karla Goldman,
of harassment and
Saffold is regarded as one of the more aggressive picketers. He Rabbi Aharon Goldstein, Tim Grimes, Ben
vandalism suffered by Harris, Peretz Hirshbein, Deborah Huerta,
videotapes synagogue attendees. In 2006 his camerawork provoked
Muslim congregations Ron Kampeas, Adam Kirsch, Avram Kluger,
an altercation with an octogenarian visiting from out-of-town for his
around the country. Kimberly Kunoff, Rabbi Robert Levy, Hal M.
(The presentation pre- granddaughter’s bat mitzvah. Lewis, Linda Morel, Marcy Oster, Merrill Po-
liner, Helena Rabinovitz, Edmon J. Rodman,
ceded the arrest in late January of a Califor- religious tolerance, respect, and freedom.
Dina Shtull, Ronnie Simon, Elliot Sorkin, Ber-
nia man suspected of planning to bomb a The event was disrupted by Blaine Cole-
nie Stiefel, Harriet Teller, Brett Willner, Bar-
Dearborn mosque.) man and his wife Mozhgan Savabieasfahani, bara Wood, Bev Wood, Martha Young
One of several city-endorsed observances who loudly marched in late objecting to the
of Religious Freedom Day, the discussion inclusion of a rabbi on the panel. “Don’t The Washtenaw Jewish News is a free and inde-
was moderated by Chuck Warpehoski of the dialogue with Zionists!” they shouted until pendent newspaper. It is published monthly,
with the exception of January and July. It is reg-
Interfaith Council for Peace and Justice; the library security removed them.
istered as a Non-profit Michigan Corporation.
event was also co-sponsor by the Interfaith In the audience was Thom Saffold, one
Opinions expressed in this publication do not
Round Table of Washtenaw County and the of the original and most persistent members necessarily reflect those of its editors or staff
library itself. of the tiny group that targets the synagogue.
Along with the imam, the standing- Formerly a Baptist minister, Saffold convert-
Member of
room-only crowd heard from Ann Arbor ed to Islam at about the time the picketers American Jewish Press Association
City Council member Carsten Hohnke; started showing up outside Sabbath services
Reverand Sue Sprowls, whose evangelical and is now a teacher at the Michigan Islamic
Lord of Light Lutheran Church was target- Academy, and contributing columnist for
ed by the anti-gay Phelps group; and Rabbi the national Muslim Observer. Another of
Robert Dobrusin, representing Beth Israel the picketers, Aimee Smith, who dresses as a
Congregation. Reverand Robert Keefer of devout Muslim when protesting at the Jew-
Crossroads Tabernacle Church, a Wiccan ish congregation and elsewhere, attended the
congregation, shared a tragic story of a teen library event without her usual hijab. n
©2011 by the Washtenaw Jewish News.
All rights reserved. No portion of the Washtenaw
Used book and media collection day at JCC Jewish News may be reproduced without
permission of the publisher.
Halye Aisner, special to the WJN Signed letters to the editor are we lcome; they should
The Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor will participate in the Bookstock Used not exceed 400 words. Letters can be emailed to the
editor at [email protected]. Name will be
Book and Media Sale. Monies raised fund various literacy projects throughout the Metro withheld at the discretion of the editor.
Detroit area. Stop by the JCC on Sunday, March 20, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. with used books,
Circulation: 5,000
books on tape, records, videos, CDs and DVDs. Donors can drive through and drop them Subscriptions:
off at the curb. All items will $12 bulk rate inside Washtenaw County
be donated to the Bookstock '11 $18 first-class su bscription
sale, which will take place
The deadline for the April 2011 issue of the
May 15–May 22 at Laurel Washtenaw Jewish News is
Park Place in Livonia. Monday, March 7.
Many volunteers are needed to help make this a success. The JCC will receive a share of the Publication date: Monday, March 28.
book sale profits for helping with this project. To schedule a pick-up of large donations or to Extra copies of the Washtenaw Jewish News
are available at locations throughout
volunteer, contact Rebekah Gamble at 971-0990 or [email protected]
Washtenaw County.
I
In this issue…
Congregations ...............................................9 Seniors ..........................................................4
Advertisers ..................................................35 Film .............................................................27 Teens/Youth ................................................19
Books ..........................................................26 Kosher Cuisine .............................................29 Vitals ...........................................................35
Calendar ......................................................30 On Another Note .........................................28 Women .........................................................4
Campus .........................................................7 On the Road ................................................11 World Jewry ................................................23
2 Washtenaw Jewish News A March 2011
I
Community
Leslie Bash to retire as JCC executive director
Halye Aisner, special to the WJN
After almost 10 years as the into a versatile all-purpose room. A
executive director of the pilot program involving the instal-
Jewish Community Cen- lation of geothermal heating and
ter of Greater Ann Arbor, Leslie cooling provided the HVAC system
Bash has announced her retirement for this area of the building. In ad-
effective this spring. She has served dition, windows in the front of the
the JCC and the Jewish Commu- building were replaced with shatter
nity Center Movement for 30 years proof glass, a new playground for
with great distinction. Leslie will be elementary-aged children was con-
honored at the JCC 25th Anniver- structed, new fencing was installed,
sary Celebration Gala and Auction the rear of the building was land-
on Sunday, March 27. scaped, a Nature’s Classroom creat-
Bash said, “It is with mixed emo- ed and new equipment was acquired
tions that I retire from my position for the preschool playground. A
at the JCC. I have loved working new conference room was con-
with all the wonderful staff and lay structed at the front of the building
leaders at the center and together and the Federation and JCC offices
we have accomplished a great deal were reorganized and renovated. In
to help create a strong Jewish com- the last two years, funds were raised
munity in Ann Arbor. I have been for the installation of a new roof for
privileged to have spent the last 30 the entire building and the New-
years serving the Jewish people. man, Gelman, and Levine lounges
They have been years of growth, Leslie Bash were renovated.
enjoyment and important work. A second Homeland Security
I feel very proud to be part of a movement under Bash’s tenure. In addition, there has Grant obtained in 2010 will provide addi-
that makes such an impact on Jewish life in been significant growth in the Early Child- tional window and door replacements and
America. I am now entering a new chapter in hood Center, Kids’ Konnection, youth and enhanced security equipment.
my life with more leisure time to travel and camp programs, and family programming. The JCC “Fund for the Future” Endow-
spend with family and friends.” A new website was created and innovative ment was established in 2008 when Chuck
During her years of leadership in Ann Ar- viral marketing programs included a weekly and Sharon Newman were honored at a JCC
bor, the JCC experienced significant growth message utilizing Constant Contact and JCC Gala. This fund now has almost $500,000,
and expansion in programming and utiliza- Facebook accounts. with additional funds still promised, and is
tion of the facility. The budget grew from $1.2 The JCC physical plant has been greatly bringing interest revenues into the general
million to $2.2 million. Many unique pro- improved over the last 10 years under Bash’s operating budget each year.
Make your next mailer,
grams were established, including the Jewish direction through multiple fundraising proj- JCC President Seth Penchansky said,
brochure, invitation or
Film Festival, a major expansion of the Jew- ects, including Gala Auctions, Maas Foun- “Leslie has been a great asset to the JCC and
any design project a
ish Book Festival, the Florence Melton Adult dation Funding, a Jewish Cultural Society we will miss her enthusiastic leadership and
Mini School, and the JCC Film Discussion matching grant and Homeland Security guidance. We wish her the best of luck in her
Group. Large community-wide programs grants. The gymnasium was completely ren- retirement.” n
such as Apples and Honey have thrived ovated and the Maas Lounge was converted
Author Lev Raphael to talk at Downtown Library
by Dennis Platte
734.483.9619
Tim Grimes, special to the WJN
[email protected]
When you grow up hating Ger- discovering essays, articles, and stories in a wide range of
many because your parents not so much a Jewish publications:
are Holocaust survivors, what new Germany, Raphael has keynoted three international
happens when you’re invited to speak there but a new self: Holocaust conferences, as well as appearing
about your books? Lev Raphael describes the someone un- at hundreds of lectures and readings in Israel,
surprising results of his travels to that taboo afraid to face North America, and Europe at Jewish Book
country in his memoir My Germany: A Jew- the past and Fairs, Jewish community centers, synagogues
ish Writer Returns To The World His Parents transcend it. and universities. Born and raised in New York
Escaped. On Monday, March 28, 7–8:30 p.m., Lev Ra- City, he received his MFA in Creative Writing
Raphael will discuss his book at the Down- phael is a pio- and English at the University of Massachu-
town Library in the Multi-Purpose Room. neer in writing setts at Amherst where he won the Harvey
Lev Raphael, haunted by his parents’ suf- fiction about Swados Fiction Prize, awarded by renowned
fering and traumatic losses under Nazi rule, America’s editor Martha Foley for a Holocaust-themed
was certain that Germany was one place in Second Gen- story later published in Redbook. Winner of
the world he would never visit. Those feel- eration, pub- the Reed Smith Fiction Prize and Interna-
ings shaped his Jewish and gay identity, his lishing his first short story about children of tional Quarterly’s Prize for Innovative Prose
life, and his career. Then the barriers of a life- survivors in 1978. Many of his early stories (judged by D. M. Thomas), Raphael holds a
time began to come down, as revealed in his on this theme were collected in his award- Ph.D. in American Studies from Michigan
moving memoir. After his mother’s death, winning book, Dancing on Tisha B’Av, while State University. Raphael taught at the uni-
while researching her war years, Raphael the best of those and newer ones appear in versity level in New York, Massachusetts and
found a distant relative living in the very city his second collection Secret Anniversaries of Michigan for 13 years and the first course
where she had been a slave laborer. the Heart. He is the author of 17 other books he designed was a multi-disciplinary study
What would he learn if he actually trav- including two novels about survivors, Winter of the Holocaust. He left teaching in 1988 to
eled to the place where his mother had found Eyes and The German Money, and two mem- write and review full-time.
freedom and met his father? Not long after oirs, Journeys & Arrivals and Writing a Jewish For more information on this event, call
that epochal trip, a German publisher bought Life. Along with hundreds of reviews in pa- the Library at 327-4555 or visit the website
several of his books for translation. Raphael pers from The Washington Post to The Detroit at aadl.org. n
was launched on book tours in Germany, Free Press, Raphael has published dozens of
Washtenaw Jewish News A March 2011 3
I
Seniors/Women
March SPICE* of Life
*Social, Physical, Intellectual, Cultural, and Educational Programs for Adults
Tuesdays Thursday special events
11 a.m.: Energy Exercise with Maria Far- March 3
quhar. $4 per session, or 3 sessions for $10 12:30 p.m.: Birthday celebration for all with
Noon: Dairy Lunch Buffet. $3 per person March birthdays. Bring your family and friends
1 p.m.: Games and Activities. Join in for for lunch and birthday cake.
a variety of games and activities including 1 p.m.: Tish Lehman will speak about Jewish
mahjong, quilting for the patients of Mott Dollmakers.
Hospital, art projects, and other card games. March 10
1 p.m.: Wii sports including bowling, ten- 12:30 p.m.: A nurse from Care Response will
nis, golf and baseball. No sports or computer monitor blood pressures. Free.
experience necessary. 1 p.m: Klezmer music has been described
many ways. Join us for a film that describes it as
Thursdays
A Tickle of the Heart.
10 a.m.: Energy Exercise with Maria Far- March 17
quhar. $4 per session, or 3 sessions for $10 1 p.m.: “The Love, Lure and Lore of Clothes-
11 a.m.: Current Events with Heather lines” Do you love hanging wash in the fresh air
Dombey. A discussion of this week’s news. on a clothesline? Do you have fond memories
Bring items of interest for group discussion. of laundry blowing in the breezes from days
Noon: Dairy Lunch Buffet. $3 per person gone by? Anne Lawrence will share her collec-
1 p.m.: Thursday Special Events and Pre- tion of clothesline memorabilia, in all its forms,
Deli Trays
sentations (see below for details) and would love to hear your stories.
for All Occasions 2:15 p.m.: Literary Group facilitated by March 24
Ranging from Sidney Warschausky, Call Merrill Poliner, 1 p.m.: A local pharmacist will discuss various
971-0990, for more information and the issues relating to medications: dosages, interac-
$7.25 – $13.50 / person current book. tions, side effects, and disposal. Bring questions
and comments
Fridays March 31
1:30 p.m.: Yiddish Reading Group at the 1 p.m.: Local artist and owner of the FLY Art
JCC. Call Ray Juni for additional informa- Center, Ruth Marks, will come to the JCC with
tion at 761-2765 an art class. Bring your creativity and sense of
fun—no artistic talent necessary.
Computers available for JCC seniors
Merrill Poliner, special to the WJN
Thanks to donations from local media company, annarbor.com, and LX4 , a local engineering
consulting company, there are now two computers available at the Jewish Community Center for
Greater Ann Arbor for use by older adults.
The computers, a Dell windows machine and an Apple MacIntosh, will be available on a reserva-
tion basis. The JCC Older Adults staff and volunteers will be available for assistance and tutoring on
the machines. The machines have Internet access, word processing and spreadsheet software.
Call Merrill Poliner, coordinator of Older Adults Programs, at 971-0990 for more information.
Hadassah’s Game Night now set for March 9
Julie Ellis, special to the WJN
Due to the blizzard in February, the Hadassah’s Game Night has been rescheduled for Wednesday,
March 9, at 7 p.m., at the Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor. This event is open to all
women in the community for a $5 entry fee, payable at the door. There will be games of Mah Jongg,
Bridge, Scrabble, Bananagrams and more. For those who want to learn Mah Jongg, there will be les-
sons available. There will also be desserts, snacks, and beverages, and a raffle and great prizes.
RSVP to Julie Ellis at 665-0439 or [email protected], or Laurie Barnett at 996-2849 or
[email protected]. Those who previously responded for the first Game Night date, are asked to
do so again for the March 9 date.
Contact Martha Young at 769-7523 if you would like transportation arranged to the event.
Hadassah theater party
Martha Young, special to the WJN
Join the Ann Arbor Hadassah chapter for an evening at the Purple Rose Theater in Chelsea on
Thursday evening, April 7, at 8 p.m., for the world premiere of Some Couples May, a “bittersweet
comedy about one woman’s journey with her family through the challenges and heartbreak of in-
fertility to the promise of motherhood.” The Purple Rose Theater is celebrating its 20th anniversary
this year with four world premier plays by Michigan artists. The play was written by Carey Crim, a
Michigan native and the daughter of WDIV-TV’s news anchor Mort Crim. She has written at least
two other plays and is also an actress, having acted with Detroit Second City’s touring company and
at Meadowbrook and Purple Rose theaters. She currently resides in New York.
Tickets are $25. RSVP is by check only, payable to “Hadassah.” Checks are due in to Miriam Shaw
by March 15 in order to reserve a seat. Shaw’s address is: 3447 Burbank, Ann Arbor, 48105. If you
need a ride to Chelsea, contact Barb Bergman at 668-6821 or [email protected]. Questions? Call
Martha Young at 769-7523 or email to [email protected].
4 Washtenaw Jewish News A March 2011
I
Community
Join the communal conversation
Karla Goldman, special to the WJN
Building upon the strong traditions 1080 South University Avenue. Dessert will
of Project STaR and the Drachler be served. “Communal Conversations, 21st-
Program, the University of Michi- Century Jewish Community and Identity:
gan Jewish Communal Leadership Program Education, Practice, Transformation” is pre-
Mik Moore Nigel Savage Rabbi Sharon Brous Robert Aronson
(JCLP) is once again training future leaders sented with the support of the Covenant
for the Jewish community. Six JCLP stu- Foundation. The schedule is as follows:
dents, hailing from across the country as • March 9, 2011, 7–9 p.m.: Mik Moore, chief
well as the Detroit area, are immersing them- strategy officer, Jewish Funds for Justice:
selves in their studies in the School of Social “Talking the Talk, Walking the Walk: Jews,
Work and Frankel Center for Judaic Studies, Race, and the Great Schlep”;
working with local Jewish agencies as non- • March 16, 7–9 p.m.: Robert Aronson,
voting board members, and getting to know president, Birthright Israel Foundation:
the Ann Arbor, Detroit, and national Jewish “Birthright Israel: Building a New Jewish
communities. Organization,” at U-M Hillel, 1429 Hill
This semester, the JCLP students invite Street;
the broader community to join in a com- • March 23, 7–9 p.m.: Rabbi Sharon Brous,
pelling discussion series planned for four Congregation IKAR: “Innovation, Agita-
Wednesday evenings in March. A stunning tion, and the Transformation of Jewish
array of national Jewish thought leaders will Life”;
be in Ann Arbor to engage with U-M stu- • March 30, 7–9 p.m.: Nigel Savage, executive
dents and the broader southeast Michigan director, Hazon: “The New Jewish Food
community, discussing issues that cut to the Movement and the Art of Bicycle Main-
heart of the critical challenges and oppor- tenance.”
tunities defining today’s American Jewish “Communal Conversations” offers the
community. opportunity to join in the discussions ani-
Unless otherwise noted, all events will mating the vibrant inaugural year of the Jew-
take place in the Educational Conference ish Communal Leadership Program. RSVPs
Center at the U-M School of Social Work, are welcome at 763-6886. n
Scholar to speak at JCS Sunday Schmooze
Julie Gales, special to the WJN
University of Michigan Schuster- book Where Are All the Women? U.N. Secu-
man Visiting Lecturer Sarai Aha- rity Council Resolution 1325: Gender Perspec-
roni will speak at a Jewish Cultural tives of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (2004).
Society’s Sunday Schmooze program enti- She is currently working on Gender and
tled, “Jewish Women, Feminism and Politics: ‘Peace-Work’: An Unofficial History of Israeli-
A View from Israel,” on March 6, 10 a.m.– Palestinian Formal Peace Negotiations. Sarai
noon, at the Jewish Community Center of Aharoni is one of the founding members
Greater Ann Arbor. In an attempt to rethink of the IWC (International Women’s Com-
the paths for Jewish women’s participation in mission) and has been active in promoting
political life, Aharoni will present recent de- women’s rights in Israel as a member of Isha
velopments and changes in the Israeli femi- l’Isha-Haifa Feminist Center.
nist movement. The broad scope of activism The Jewish Cultural Society’s Sunday
and political innovation of young Israeli Schmooze program presents local experts
women will be examined through photogra- to share their knowledge and create a true
phy, video and text. Aharoni will also share discussion among participants. Aharoni’s
her personal experiences and insights about Schmooze is co-sponsored by the Cultural
the Israeli women’s movement. Society’s Social Action Committee. “Dr.
Before arriving in Ann Arbor to join the Aharoni’s expertise on women’s contribu-
Frankel Center for Judaic Studies, Aharoni tions and impact in Israeli politics, par-
was a post-doctoral fellow in the Leonard ticularly in the service of conflict resolution
Davis Institute for International Relations and the promotion of peace, will offer Ann
at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Arbor a unique opportunity to explore this
a research fellow at the Jerusalem Van-Leer critical dimension of Israeli society and po-
Institute. She received her Ph.D. in Gender litical culture,” said Dr. Kristine Freeark, JCS
Studies from Bar-Ilan University, writing Social Action Committee chair. “We are very
her dissertation on gender perspectives and excited to have her share her thoughts and
the participation of Israeli women in formal engage us in discussion.”
Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations. The entire community is invited to attend
Aharoni has published articles on gender, Dr. Aharoni’s talk. Coffee and bagels will be
peace and conflict in Israel and co-edited the available at the Schmooze. n
Washtenaw Jewish News A March 2011 5
ums 10 11
MARCh |
132nd Season
Scharoun Ensemble Berlin
Chamber Musicians of the Berlin Philharmonic
Wed, Mar 9 | 8 PM
RackhaM auditoRiuM
In 1983, members of the Berlin Philharmonic founded
the Scharoun Ensemble Berlin, named after the
architect who designed the marvelous concert hall
where the Berlin Philharmonic performs at home. The
eight musicians of the Scharoun Ensemble express
an artistic commitment to both the heritage of the
past and the challenges of the present. The ensemble
comprises the standard octet instrumentation allowing
them to perform some of the great chamber music
literature of Schubert, Mozart, Beethoven, and Brahms,
in addition to 20th-century classical modernist works
and contemporary music.
PrograM
Kurt rhode as We Do
Dvořák Czech Suite in D Major, op. 39 (1879)
Shakespeare’s
Schubert octet in F Major, D. 803 (1824)
Richard III and
Media PaRtneR WGTE 91.3 FM.
The Comedy of Errors
Martin McDonagh’s
Propeller
The Cripple of Inishmaan
Edward Hall director
Druid and Atlantic Theater Company
PoWeR centeR
Garry Hynes director
Propeller, the internationally celebrated, innovative
thu-Sun, Mar 10-13
Shakespeare company led by Edward Hall, presents new
PoWeR centeR
productions of two of Shakespeare’s greatest contrasting
The Cripple of Inishmaan is “a break-your-heart, masterpieces. renowned for combining a rigorous approach
cruelly funny evening directed with an exhilarating to the text with an exciting, physical aesthetic to engage its
ruthlessness and acted with a bracing lack of audience’s imagination and bring fresh understanding to
sentimentality.” (The guardian) The second play in classic plays, Propeller is Shakespeare rediscovered.
Martin McDonagh’s “aran Islands” trilogy, it is infused
Richard III
with his trademark humor, rich with macabre cruelty,
and teeming with eccentric island characters. Ireland’s
Wed, Mar 30 7:30 PM
acclaimed Druid Theater Company makes its UMS
fri, apr 1 7:30 PM
debut with this 2008 production.
Sat, apr 2 2 PM
individual PeRfoRManceS SPonSoRed by Sun, apr 3 7:30 PM
Linda and MauricE BinkoW
PhiLanThroPic Fund richard III brings the War of the roses cycle of history plays
to a close in bloody fashion. arguably Shakespeare’s most
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Bach’s Mass in b minor
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Bach Collegium Japan
The Comedy of Errors
Masaaki Suzuki conductor
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The Comedy of Errors is Shakespeare’s most
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I
Campus
Celebration at U-M library honors donor Bert Askwith on his 100th birthday
Harriet Teller, special to the WJN
To thousands of University of Michigan for winter break. The 17-year-old Askwith Askwith Fund for Innovation in Asthma and
students, Bert’s Café in the Shapiro decided to charter a bus to take students to Allergy Management in the School of Public
Undergraduate Library is a convenient New York. Selling bus tickets from the steps of Health’s Center for Managing Chronic Dis-
spot to grab a cappuccino and take a study the Michigan Union, he quickly realized the ease, and a display of historical photographs at
break. If asked, most students would be hard- potential in this venture and launched a new the Michigan Union, where Askwith launched
pressed to explain why the café is named Bert’s business. He named his fledgling company Campus Coach Lines back in 1928.
or if it was even named for anyone in particu- Campus Coach Lines and used the profits to Askwith also endowed the Benny Friedman
lar. The inspirational story of the man behind cover his tuition and living expenses for the Fellowship in Sports Journalism at the Knight-
the name may now become better known as rest of his college years. After graduating from Wallace Fellows at Michigan. While a student
the university prepares for the grand opening U-M, Askwith moved the business to New York at U-M, Askwith had been a reporter for The
of Bert’s Study Lounge and celebration of do- and became a full-time entrepreneur. At age 99, Michigan Daily, writing a regular column of
nor Bert Askwith’s 100th birthday on Tuesday, he continues to run Campus Coach Lines, tak- film reviews called “Screen Reflections,” and he
March 22, at 1 p.m. ing the commuter train from his home in Har- retained an interest in journalism. Benny Fried-
Bert Askwith, who graduated the Univer- rison, New York, to his office in Manhattan five man was the son of Orthodox Jews who im-
sity of Michigan in 1931, previously provided days a week. He will be flying from New York to migrated from Russia. Friedman was captain
the funding for Bert’s Café in the Shapiro Li- Michigan on March 22, the day of the celebra- of the U-M football team in 1926. He had the
brary as well as a number of other programs Bert Askwith tion at the U-M Library, and returning home distinction of being the first Jew elected cap-
around campus. He recently made a generous be served following the program. This event, that same evening so he can be at his office on tain of a major college squad. Despite his ac-
gift allowing the library to create a high tech which will take place on the first floor of the time the next morning. complishments on the football field, Friedman
study lounge at the Harold and Vivian Shapiro Harold and Vivian Shapiro Undergraduate Li- For Bert Askwith, tzedakah, or charity, is never became as well-known as other athletes.
Undergraduate Library, named for the former brary, is free and open to the public. not simply a concept, it is a way of life. In addi- Askwith believed that the anti-Semitism of the
president of the University of Michigan and his The Bert Askwith story begins in March tion to supporting a variety of programs at the day was the reason why, and he wanted to help
wife. (After leaving Michigan, Harold Shapiro 1911, with his birth in Battle Creek, Michi- U-M, Askwith has been a major donor to the give Friedman his rightful place in history. By
became the first Jewish president of Princeton gan. Bert began his studies at the University of United Way and many other non-profit orga- funding the Benny Friedman Fellowship, Ask-
University.) At the March 22 celebration, U-M Michigan in the fall of 1927. A situation the fol- nizations. The Askwith name is visible across with was able to honor a Jewish sports hero as
President Mary Sue Coleman will make brief lowing year threatened to strand U-M students the U-M campus, including the Askwith Media well as provide career development opportuni-
remarks, and members of the U-M Marching who would normally have taken the train from Library on the second floor of the Shapiro Li- ties for sports journalists. n
Band will perform. Light refreshments will Ann Arbor to their homes on the east coast brary, Askwith Auditorium in Lorch Hall, the
U-M sophomores create warm home base for local youth movement
Emily Eisbruch, special to the WJN
Along with which classes to take, and menthal, Naamani, Lamm comments on the balance and per-
what activities to dive into, college Lamm, and Con- spective that living in the bayit can provide,
students also have another big deci- don still maintain a saying, “The world of college, especially a uni-
sion on a yearly basis: where to live. There are healthy balance of versity as big as U-M, can be fairly overwhelm-
benefits and drawbacks to dorms, apartments, other interests. For ing. You can feel distant from the people sitting
and Greek houses among other options. Four example, Condon, next to you in classes. Living in the Bayit and
University of Michigan sophomores made a major in environ- being involved in the Habonim Dror commu-
a special choice for the current school year mental science and nity helps me feel grounded. It even helps me
— they live in a house that serves as a home creative writing, loves realize that there are connections that can be
base for the Habonim Dror youth group local yoga and takes classes made and useful things that can be taught even
chapter. Their residence, a cozy house on Olivia that will lead to be- in a class of 500 kids. “
Street, is affectionately known as the “Bayit” ing a yoga instructor. According to Naamani, living in the Bayit
(the Hebrew word for house). Naamani, is a social is all part of “creating a strong and intentional
The full-time residents of the Habonim psych major, minor- and meaningful Jewish community where
Dror bayit are Sophia Blumenthal, Matan Naa- we strive to empower
mani, Maya Lamm, and Annie Condon. For youth to be leaders in
Blumenthal, Naamani and Lamm, their expe- that community and to
rience growing up in the Habonim Dror youth find their own personal
Left to right: Matan Naamani, Annie Condon,
movement played a key role in their choice to connection to their
Maya Lamm and Sophia Blumenthal
establish the Bayit. They participated in Ha- Jewish identity.”
bonim Dror’s workshop program the year af- we can in the bayit. We want to have meaningful With the somewhat
ter high school, lived on kibbutz, and then for and fun ways for Jewish kids to come together.” transient nature of stu-
several months lived in communal houses in A weekly highlight in the life of the Bayit is dent life, what is the
northern Israel, while doing volunteer work in the homework Mondays when kids of all ages future of the Habonim
the schools. Blumenthal comments, “We de- are invited and welcome to come to the Bayit Dror Bayit? Blumen-
cided we wanted to continue that kind of living after school, on a drop-in basis for socializing thal, Naamani, Lamm,
environment at some point during college. Our and doing homework. In addition, as the spring and Condon say they
freshman year at U-M, we lived in the dorms, progresses, the Bayit will host several informa- plan to continue liv-
and there we met Annie. For our sophomore tion sessions for Camp Tavor, near Three Riv- ing in the bayit at least
year, the four of us found this house, and we ers, Michigan, the local Habonim Dror camp, through their junior
moved here in August of 2010.” and the summer home for most of the kids in years. They have many
Kids having fun during a sleepover event at the Bayit
The Bayit on Olivia Street instantly became the Ken Pardes youth group. plans, including a new
a friendly headquarters for both planning and Condon notes that “the experience of liv- ing in community action and social change. He tikun olam (repair the world) program and
hosting Habonim Dror “Ken Pardes” youth ing in the Bayit is similar to other types of works tutoring Hebrew and is committed to a program called Habonim b’schunah (Ha-
group events. During August and September, communal living experiences, but it’s more community activism in a variety of forms. bonim in the neighborhood). In addition,
several high school seniors, who are the Ha- intentional. We talk and work out problems. Blumenthal participates in an a capella sing- they hope to establish new leadership for the
bonim Dror Ken Pardes youth group leaders, We are always doing something meaningful, ing group and in theater activities, and even Bayit going forward.
met at the house to plan a range of activities. doing planned activities with youth group finds time to teach Sunday school for the Ann For more information on Ken Pardes,
Many of the group’s events are hosted at the kids. It’s work but you feel like you are doing Arbor Reconstructionist Havurah. Lamm is contact Matan Naamani at ken.annarbor@
Bayit, including Shabbat dinners, holiday cel- something meaningful.” studying international studies and environ- gmail.com or 904-6578; for more informa-
ebrations, sleepovers, and sports days. As Lamm While the Bayit and the commitment to ment and holds babysitting and waitressing/ tion on Camp Tavor, visit camptavor.org or
explains “We try to have an many activities as the youth group take up plenty of time, Blu- catering jobs. call (800) 55-TAVOR n
Washtenaw Jewish News A March 2011 7
I
Purim
To drink, or not to drink The four mitzvot of Purim
Rabbi Robert Dobrusin, special to the WJN Rabbi Aharon Goldstein, special to the WJN
As Purim approaches each year, I am us, the idea that we should get so drunk on In the Megillah of Esther, the story is told in ways that were similar to non-Jews, but the
likely to receive the following ques- Purim that we can’t tell the hero from the vil- about Queen Esther, Achashverosh, Haman, level of holiness the Jews had with God was
tion on the “Ask the Rabbi” page on lain in the story is offensive and unseemly for and the threat the Jewish people overcame. greater than the relationship non-Jews could
our website: “Is it really true that the Talmud a religious holiday. Then, at the end, the Megillah says this verse, achieve with similar activities.
teaches that it is a mitzvah, a commandment, There are many who have tried, through “To the Jewish people it was light, happiness, joy So let’s look at these four relatively common
to get drunk on Purim?” the process of commentary, to minimize the and beautiful.”(Esther 8, 16) The Talmud asks activities and try to see why Haman found them
Whatever might prompt an individual to amount of drink that might fulfill the obliga- why the Megillah expresses the feeling in four so disturbing.
ask that question, I am always glad to oblige tion. Maimonides, for example, suggested that separate ways rather than simply saying it was a 1) Torah: The Jews followed Torah not because
with an answer. The Talmud does address we should drink only enough to sleep soundly, happy time for the Jewish people? The explana- it was logical or because it made complete
this issue, but the source requires some ex- for while we are asleep we can’t tell the differ- tion is that the four positive expressions of the sense to them, but simply because they had
planation and interpretation. ence between Haman and Mordeciai. Megillah correspond to the four evil decrees that faith that it was God’s will that they should
In the Talmudic tractate of Megillah Then there is a commentary I once read Haman proscribed for the Jewish people. He de- follow its dictates. Indeed, there are many
(page 7b) we read: “A man is obligated to which claims that “Arur Haman and Ba- creed the elimination of four Jewish activities: commandments that, to this day, have no
drink on Purim until he cannot tell the dif- ruch Mordecai” actually refers to the title 1) Torah study apparent rationale, but we do them because
ference between Arur Haman, Cursed be of a rather lengthy piyyut, a religious poem, 2) Jewish holidays Torah, which is God’s will, tells us to do so.
Haman, and Baruch Mordechai, blessed which was extremely complicated and there- 3) Circumcision In contrast to the Gentiles of Haman’s time,
be Mordechai.” To be precise, the word we fore required one to be clear headed in order 4) Tefillin the books of wisdom had to make sense to
translate as “to drink”, livsumay, comes from to recite. Once one could no long recite this These were the four mitzvot in particular them—they had to be able to understand it
the word whose root means “fragrance”. It complicated poem, says this commentary, that bothered Haman so very much that he in order to follow it. This is actually a form
seems that this refers to fragrant wine and, one has to stop drinking. wanted the Jewish people eliminated. These of self-serving because they only followed
from the context, it is clear that the Talmud Finally, let me share my own midrash on mitzvot highlighted the relationship between what made sense to themselves, whereas the
is referring to drinking. this issue. I believe that drinking moderate God and the Jewish people. Haman could not Jews obeyed even what they didn’t under-
So, how do we relate to this phrase today? amounts of alcohol, for those that can do so tolerate these constant reminders that the Jew- stand because they had faith in God’s word.
Before I begin to consider the possible legally, safely and reasonably, is a pleasure we ish people had a special relationship with God. 2) Holidays: The Jews celebrated holidays as a
implications of this phrase, let me make clear should permit to ourselves. However, having Once Haman was eliminated, the four mitzvot means to show appreciation to God or to feel
two points. Even if we were to accept the fact spent one or two Purims having drunk to were reinstituted. This is one of the components more in awe of God. By contrast, the Gen-
that the Talmud really means that one should excess when I was a student (of legal drink- of our happiness on Purim. tiles of the time used holidays as an excuse to
get drunk on Purim, Jewish law would not ing age of course), I can honestly say that it So what about these four mitzvot? “cut loose,” to indulge their baser impulses
permit the commandment to be extended didn’t help me appreciate the holiday. In fact, 1) The first one, “or” corresponded to by getting drunk and/or being promiscu-
to those under the local legal drinking age. it made any attempt to learn anything from light, which represented the Torah. ous. The Jews were more restrained and dis-
There is a principle in Jewish law: dina di- the holiday unsuccessful. 2) Happiness, “simcha,” the second one, related ciplined in their observances.
malchuta dina, the law of the land is the law, The truth is that there are many lessons to our holidays. Haman tried to prevent us 3) Circumcision: The Maimonides notes that
and therefore there is no way to justify un- that we can learn from the holiday of Purim; from celebrating our holidays. there is no rationale given in the Torah for
derage drinking on Purim in any way. Those and to learn them, we need to be clear-head- 3) The third of the four, joy, “sason,” as we will the commandment to circumcise. But he
who are not of legal drinking age should not ed. One of those lessons is that the difference see explained later, relates to the mitzvah of tells us that a benefit of the procedure is
be drinking on Purim or any day, and no one between good and evil in our world isn’t circumcision. that it reduces lustful tendencies of sexual
should encourage them to do so. quite as stark as we might think. So it really 4) And number four, “vikor,” beautiful, is refer- lust. The gentile would be upset if he had
Secondly, anyone who has an addiction doesn’t take much drink to cloud our minds ring to the mitzvah of tefillin. As God says to limit his pleasure in the physical world.
to alcohol or who plans to get into a car and and our hearts to the point where we can’t to Ezekiel “take off the beautiful object from The Jew feels joy from circumcision as it
drive on Purim must consider him of her- really tell the good guys from the bad guys. you,” the Talmud tells us that that reference helps him to behave in a manner that is
self exempt from any such commandment. We cannot take even one day, even Purim, was to tefillin. proscribed by Torah.
In fact, those individuals must consider it an off from the need to help repair the world by So why were these four mitzvot were so both- 4) Tefillin: The nations of the world also have
obligation to refrain from drinking on the clearly distinguishing good from evil. ersome to Haman when they weren’t even partic- religious accessories. Generally, though, they
grounds of pikkuach nefesh, saving a life. A drink or two on Purim, for those that ularly unique to the Jewish nation. For example: are elaborate. By contrast, our Tefillin are not
Now, to return to the question concern- can do so safely? Sure, why not? But in this 1) Torah is a book of knowledge and wisdom— elaborate. They are simple pieces of leather
ing the Talmudic source. Clearly, Purim is day and age, it is irresponsible to teach that but other nations and religions had their painted black with a simple parchment in-
the happiest holiday of the year and we are it is a commandment to drink to excess on books of knowledge and wisdom. side proclaiming the oneness of God. We
commanded to celebrate and we should take Purim or any other day. And to do so in a 2) Holidays were ubiquitous throughout all na- don’t perform the mitzvah to show-off for
that commandment seriously. For those that religious context sends the wrong message to tions of the world. others or to put on a display full of pomp
can do so safely and for whom it is legal, our children and keeps us from our respon- 3) Circumcision was not only practiced by and circumstance. We perform the mitzvah
drinking alcohol can legitimately be seen as sibility as human beings. n Jews—it was a part of other cultures as well. to show our unity and obedience to God.
a means to celebrate. However, for many of 4) And finally, tefillin was not unique in the So these are the qualities that made the Jew-
sense that many other cultures and nations ish people so unique amongst the nations of
and religions wore accessory items denoting the world and enraged Haman to the point he
Celebrate Purim in the Wild West at Chabad House their particular cultural values. wanted to eliminate them.
What made these four mitzvot that were not On Purim we celebrate the failure of Ha-
Brynie Stiefel, special to the WJN even overly unique to the Jews, so vexing to Ha- man’s plot as well as our ability to perform our
For many, March might be that time of year when they’ve just had enough—enough snow- man such that he wanted to eliminate the entire mitzvot today even as our ancestors did in their
filled rides to and from work; enough delayed flights and early nights; enough bundling of Jewish nation? He seemingly had no problem time. Both our exclusive laws and customs that
children to get outside and enough cabin fever being cooped inside. It’s the time of year with activities that were solely Jewish. It was make us unique among the nations. And sec-
that brings the promise of spring, but often enough in Michigan, that promise is fleeting these above-mentioned activities that Jews ond, the laws and customs that outwardly ap-
and seemingly far off as the weather keeps changing its course until spring finally arrives shared with other nations that troubled him. pear similar to those of the non-Jews but have
for good. Why should this be? different inner meanings that also make us
So Purim is always a welcomed holiday—a celebration waited for all year by children The problem he had was that the Jews acted unique among the nations. n
and adults alike. Chabad of Ann Arbor takes the fun to a new level each year with its annual
Purim Around the World event. Designed to bring a taste of the exotic, the theme this year Purim baskets made in Israel and Michigan
is Purim in the Wild West, and will feature a Cowboy Ross Magic Show, Western-style buffet
dinner, rope games and western activities for the whole family. Karen Freedland, special to the WJN
The warm and welcoming atmosphere at Chabad, coupled with the intense joy this fes-
Once again, the Hebrew Day School of Ann Arbor is offering their traditional Purim Basket event,
tival brings with it, makes Purim at Chabad an unforgettable event. The evening will begin
allowing community members to fulfill the mitzvah of sending Purim packages to friends and loved
with the traditional reading of the Megillah, and include a masquerade contest, face-paint-
ones. This year the theme is “Made in Michigan, Made in Israel” with most of the gourmet foods in
ing, live music and dancing. Purim in the Wild West will take place on Sunday, March 20, at
the basket being from one of those two locations. In addition to traditional local delivery, this year
the Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor, with festivities beginning at 4:30 p.m.
the Hebrew Day School is also offering the opportunity to send a mishloach manot gift to friends and
Cover Charge is $30 per family, $10 per adult and $8 per child. More information about the
family anywhere in the USA. To ensure timely delivery, all orders and payment must be received by
event is available by calling 995-3276, extension 5, or on the web at www.jewmich.com.
March 7. For more information, check your email inbox if you have ordered in the past, or call 662-
1849 or email [email protected].
8 Washtenaw Jewish News A March 2011
I
Congregations
Temple Beth Emeth Purim activities
Brett Willner, special to the WJN
Megillah reading and carnival programming. The Megillah reading and car-
On Sunday, March 20, beginning at 5 p.m., nival are open to the community.
Rabbi Delson and the Tot Shabbat Crew will
A Wild West Purim Party
tell the story of the Megillah as the congrega-
Dust off your cowboy boots and get ready for
tion participates with noise-making to drown
Temple Beth Emeth’s Purim Hoedown on Sat-
out Haman’s name. A Purim carnival will fol-
urday, March 19, at 8 p.m.—the second annual
low the service, with a separate area for tots
adult Purim party. Participants are invited to
located in the lower level. Dinner of pizza,
come dressed in a Wild West costume or their
beverages and snacks will be available for pur-
favorite Purim costume. Festivities will include
chase. Orders for hamentashen can be placed
a Texas hold-em poker tournament, a raffle to
in advance from TBE Sisterhood or purchased
help support the Back Door Food Pantry, danc-
at the event. (See the TBE website or call the
ing, a costume contest, appetizers, desserts, a
TBE office.) Game tickets for the carnival are
cash bar and more. Tickets can be purchased
4/$1 and prize tickets can be redeemed for a
at www.templebethemeth.org, at the door, or
huge variety of merchandise. There will be in-
by sending a check to the temple office. This
flatable carnival games as well as a traditional
event is open to the entire Ann Arbor Jewish
bean bag toss, cake walk, and face painting.
community. Tickets are $20, RSVP at hcallow@
Kadima and AARTY youth group members
templebethemeth.org or 665-4744. n
run this annual event and proceeds go to their
TBE activities this month
Brett Willner, special to the WJN
Spirituality Book Club leads to the exploration of each other’s back-
Tuesday March 1, 7:30–9 p.m. ground. Reuven Malter has grown up in a fairly
Thursday March 3, noon–1:30 p.m. secular, yet Zionist, home, while Danny Saun-
Temple Beth Emeth’s Spirituality Book Club ders is the son of a Hasidic rabbi. Their new
will be reading: My Grandfather’s Blessing, by Ra- found friendship does not sit well with their
chel Naomi Remen. Analysis of texts and group parents, as Rev Saunders is staunchly against
discussion provide lively sessions each month. Zionism, or many of their friends, as most of
Participants are welcome to drop in for selected Reuven’s friends have a degree of dislike for the
sessions or the entire series through June. Visit Hasidim. Join other movie enthusiasts for this
the TBE website, www.templebethemeth.org , afternoon movie and a discussion following the
for the book list for the year. Contact Cantor movie. Snacks are always provided and every-
Rose, [email protected], with questions. one is welcome.
TNT: Chopped Shabbat Torah Study with David Aaron
Saturday, March 5, 6 p.m. Saturday, March 19, 8:50 a.m.
Love those competition cooking shows like Rabbi Aaron, a professor of Bible at Hebrew
Iron Chef, Hell’s Kitchen, and Top Chef? Join Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in
Twenties and Thirties for, Chopped, TNT’s sec- Cincinnati, Ohio, is a visiting scholar with the
ond annual cooking competition on Saturday, University of Michigan’s Frankel Center. He
March 5, at 6 p.m. The event will cost $5 and in- is leading a monthly Shabbat morning Torah
dividuals should bring their own refreshments. Study during Rabbi Levy’s sabbatical. Everyone
Compete, be a food judge, or come just to en- is welcome to these monthly sessions. For more
joy the food. RSVP by March 1 to Brett Willner, information, contact Rabbi Lisa Delson at ldel-
[email protected] or 665-4744. [email protected]. The final date for
Torah Study with Rabbi Aaron will be April 23.
Women’s Torah Study
Tot Story Hour with Wendy Holden
Mondays, March 7 and 21, 7–8:30 p.m.
The first and third Mondays of each month, Monday, March 21, 10 a.m.
Cantor Annie Rose leads a Women’s Torah Once a month Wendy Holden, TBE librarian,
Study. The Women of Reform Judaism Women’s shares a story during Tot Story Hour in the TBE
Commentary has become a major source of library. No need to RSVP.
insight for those studying Torah in depth or
Grief Support group
simply reading the weekly parsha, portion. This
A Grief Support Group is forming at Temple
month the Women’s Torah group will be study-
Beth Emeth. It will be moderated by a trained
ing Vayikra and Sh’mini.
professional. Anyone interested in participating
Men’s Torah Study should contact Rabbi Lisa Delson at ldelson@
Wednesdays, March 9 and 23, 7:30 p.m. templebethemeth.org or 665-4744.
Join Temple Beth Emeth’s Men’s Torah
Sisterhood Gift Shop Passover sale
study for an evening of learning on March 9
Sunday, March 27, 3–7:30 p.m.
and 23. The seesion includes learning, refresh-
Sisterhood will hold its annual Passover sale
ments, and a bit of fun. For more information,
in the halls and area outside the gift shop. A
contact Roger Stutesman, at rgstutesman@sb-
variety of seder plates, matzoh plates, matzoh
cglobal.net.
covers, haggadot, cards, cookbooks and kitchen
Movie Tuesday: The Chosen items, paper goods, Elijah and Miriam cups,
Tuesday, March 15, 1–3 p.m. great toys for kids of all ages will be available
This month’s movie will be, The Chosen, for purchase. Need a large numbers of hagga-
adapted from the novel by Chaim Potok. When dot? E-mail ahead to [email protected] or
two Jewish youngsters from completely differ- call Amy, 668-6842. There are samples of many
ent lives meet on the baseball diamond in Post haggadot to choose from in the gift shop. n
WWII Brooklyn, they begin a friendship that
Washtenaw Jewish News A March 2011 9
I
Congregations
Beth Israel Congregation March events
Elliot Sorkin, special to the WJN
Reb Sullivan Show with the whole race against the 60-second shot clock while leged he is to be able to teach Torah as a part Beth Israel librarian, notes, “This is a feel-
Megilla, featuring The Bagels Band shooting basketballs from a video rocking of his profession. good book even as it deals with some weighty
chair. The carnival is free to all! issues. It speaks to us all about things we fear,
from Liverpool Friday Night Lights
Beth Israel Middle School Students will and trials we are all obliged to weather, at the
Saturday, March 19, have a separate, student-planned Purim Friday, March 25, same times as it inspires hope. Once I started
8:30 p.m. Maariv Service; celebration from 11 a.m.–noon and are in- 6 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat Service; reading it I couldn’t put it down!” On March
8:45 p.m. Megilla Reading with a Theme vited to join the carnival beginning at noon. 7 p.m. Dairy Dinner 26, after Kiddush, there will be a discussion
On Purim Eve, Beth Israel recreates that The Men’s Club of Beth Israel will be selling On selected Friday nights, Beth Israel of- on the book for all those interested.
now famous historic event of the mid sixties, lunch beginning at noon. fers a family-friendly Shabbat dairy dinner
when The Bagels boys’ band from Liverpool, A traditional reading of the complete for $7 per person, with no charge for chil- Tot Shabbat
England was first introduced to the Ameri- scroll of Esther will take place in the Sanctu- dren 3 and under. Families and individuals March 12 and 26, 11:15 a.m.
can public on TV’s popular variety program, ary at 1:15 p.m. that same day. are encouraged to attend the full evening, Tot Shabbat is a special Saturday morn-
The Reb Sullivan Show. The Bagels will sing which includes a Friday evening service at ing service for parents and their children 2
Purim selections from their first gold album. Archaeology of the Temple Mount 6 p.m., and all the traditional rituals of the – 5 years old which includes songs, stories,
Their performance will be introduced by Reb March 6, March 20, and March 27, 8 p.m. Friday Shabbat meal. Because no payments and prayers. This program is run by Peretz
Sullivan himself and will be preceded by the This three session free course is presented by can be accepted on Shabbat, there must be a Hirshbein (JCC Early Childhood assistant
reading of the entire scroll of Esther and ap- Jack Love. The first class will detail the topogra- pre-payment which will confirm the family’s director) on the second Saturday of each
pearances from popular entertainers between phy of the Temple Mount and conduct a com- or individual’s reservation. month and Jessica Kander (an experienced
the chapters. A themed coffee pub from the prehensive virtual tour of that area and what pre-school teacher) on the fourth Saturday
Henry Gershowitz Memorial Shabbat
city of Liverpool, complete with a picture of remains from Second Temple times. The second of each month. Special preschool sized tables
Great Britain’s current queen, Queen Esther session will consider the mechanics of building Saturday, March 26, 9:30 a.m. are set up for the regular Kiddush so that
the Temple Mount plat- This participatory Shabbat service honors families may easily attend with their children
form and the question of the memory of Beth Israel’s Past-President following Tot Shabbat. There is no charge for
the location of the Temple Henry Gershowitz. Until he passed away in this bi-monthly program.
on that platform. It will 1998, Henry was not only a pillar of the con-
also review the structures gregation, but he was also a regular at Shab-
that today grace the plat- bat Services, often leading Pesukei D’zimrah; Mini Minyan for children
form. In the third session, he also served as the Wednesday night min- in K–2nd grades
the layers of history will yan captain. Gershowitz also encouraged new Saturday, March 12, 11 a.m.
be peeled away to ex- members to participate in leading the Satur- The Mini Minyan is a program offered on
amine to what extent, if day service which inspires Beth Israel Men’s the second Saturday morning of each month
any, one may glimpse the Club to honor him with this annual event. and it serves as a bridge between Tot Shab-
shape of the Temple itself Volunteers lead every part of the service, fol- bat that is aimed at preschool children and
in the days before the plat- lowed by a Kiddush generously sponsored by their parents, and Kehillat Shabbat which is
form was constructed. Is the Gershowitz family and Men’s Club. For intended for 3rd–5th graders. Mini Minyan
there any realistic hope of more information, contact Haran Rashes features many of the same songs and stories
reaching back to the time at [email protected] or Charles Weaver at enjoyed during Tot Shabbat, while also offer-
The Bagels in years past of Solomon? [email protected]. ing the chance for children to learn and ex-
plore many of the Shabbat morning prayers
Lunch and Laugh series Beth Israel Reads
II, will serve free hot chocolate, coffee, tea, through age appropriate activities. The Mini
and hamentashen throughout the evening. Wednesdays, March 2, 9, 16, 23, Saturday, March 26, 12:45 p.m. Minyan service is led by program director Ja-
As is traditional at Beth Israel, both adults noon–1:15 p.m., Garfunkel Schteingart Culminating Book Discussion cob Kander with games and activities led by a
and children do wear costumes. Noisemakers Activity Center (2010 Washtenaw Avenue) Each year a different book is chosen for team of parent volunteers.
are provided along with the Books of Esther In honor of Purim, these Wednesday ses- the Beth Israel Reads effort. The book for this
(including large print and children’s editions) sions will feature some treasures from Rabbi year is Have a Kehillat Shabbat and Moadon
and a special surprise gift to all participants. Dobrusin’s extensive collection of humor Little Faith: A March 12, 11 a.m.
Beth Israel’s own Beatles tribute group, The both in video and in print, a tribute to the True Story by Kehillat Shabbat is a Saturday morning
Bagels, will be highlighted during the eve- genius of Allan Sherman and a look back at Mitch Albom. program for K–5th graders that includes a
ning. On Sunday, March 20, the entire Scroll some of the funniest television commercials Album, who morning service to celebrate, to schmooze
of Esther will be read again at 1:15 p.m. of all time. Participants are asked to bring a lives in Michi- and to learn, led by Gabe Pachter.
dairy lunch and Beth Israel will provide bev- gan, is the au- Moadon, a gathering place for elementary
Purimworld–fun for the whole family erages and dessert. thor of several school-aged children, starts at 10 a.m. every
Sunday, March 19, other books, Saturday, and provides a Junior Congrega-
9:30 a.m. Skits, songs, Abridged Favorite Torah Lessons Series including tion experience on weeks where there is no
Megillah Reading and Celebration; Monday, March 7, 8 p.m. Tuesdays with Kehillat Shabbat.
11 a.m.–1 p.m. Carnival “The Jews of Shushan Were Happy Morrie. In this
Participants will find Purimworld the When They Saw Mordecai Wearing non-fiction General community is always
happiest place on earth. All guests will be Royal Blue”: work, he ex- welcome to events
greeted by friends Buzz and Woody, of Toy This session will recreate an unexpected plores the dif- All of Beth Israel’s events, plus all edu-
Story fame, and see some classic Disney journey of Rabbi Robert Dobrusin along a fering worlds cational offerings are open to the general
friends as well. The morning will begin with rather surprising trail connecting several of Christians and Jews, African Americans community, often at no cost. For further in-
songs, skits and an abridged megillah read- seemingly unrelated texts. It was the type of and whites, and rich and poor, and examines formation call 665-9897 or visit www.bethis-
ing. A highlight of the morning is a special Torah study experience when someone real- how different religious leaders deal with is- rael-aa.org.
appearance by the Megillah Mouseketeers. izes the power Jewish text has to excite and to sues that perplex modern man. Nika Bareket,
Guests are asked to be sure to wear a costume challenge. The journey begins with a phrase
for this exciting Purim celebration. The com- from Shoshannat Ya’akov, a short poem sung
munity is welcome to attend this incredible after the reading of the Megilla, and con-
morning, which will also be attended by all cludes with a critical lesson which links the
Beth Israel Religious School students. holidays of Purim and Pesach. During this
The carnival will open at 11 Kids will en- session, Rabbi Dobrusin will teach the texts
joy great classic carnival games like Pluto’s as he encountered them and tell the story of Be Happy!
Plinko, Cinderella’s Ring Toss, and Bean Bag how one moment, while sitting on the side
Games with Pooh and Friends. The carni- of a road in Clinton, Michigan, on an early
val will also feature new, out of this world spring morning, he realized once again how
games like “Hooley Ball” where two people exciting Torah study can be and how privi- It’s Adar
10 Washtenaw Jewish News A March 2011