Everyone knows Rabbi Art plays a mean guitar. Those who attended this year’s Purim Play, Schmaltz...A Greased Purim were treated to a solo that would have made Chuck Berry smile. Check out the video below.
And did you know the entire night’s event is available on DVD? We are selling the DVDs, complete with high quality video editing on professionally-printed discs, for $18 each as a fundraiser to the temple. For more information, contact Ken Eisner or Mike Daninhirsch.
With the arrival of spring but a few days away (thank God) we quickly turn our communal attention to the Festival of Pesakh (Passover). In the coming weeks (Wednesday, April 8th is night of the 1st Seder) many of us will engage in our families’ varied rituals of preparation for this much beloved holiday. Of course, the essence of Pesakh is in its message of freedom and justice – that all peoples deserve to live a life filled with dignity and self-respect.
In keeping with this vital message, let me encourage all of our members to participate in the upcoming 12th Annual Interfaith Gathering that is being held this year at our congregation. On Sunday, March 29th from 3 – 5 PM peoples of many faith and religious communities will enter our sanctuary to celebrate and share and learn from one another. Our tradition considers the mitzvah of welcoming guests, “hakh’na’sat or’khim”, as a truly important sacred obligation (this mitzvah is included in a list special mitzvot that we recite each day from the Siddur); one that we should practice often in community.
Truth be told, too many of us haven’t taken advantage of this unique North Hills program when it has been held outside the temple, in churches throughout our community. Shortly after I arrived to serve as the rabbi of our community, 12 years ago, I had the privilege to participate in the very first Gathering that took at St. Paul’s on Ferguson Rd. And I have felt privileged and blessed every year to participate and I have usually offered the Jewish perspective on the theme of the program.
This year’s theme is “Working for Change” thus encouraging all of the presenters to focus upon their particular group’s approach to social and religious change. This is a very exciting topic and I’m sure that you will be engaged by the many presenters and learn something not only about the different religious groups but also something significant about yourself.
Recently, this past Monday night at our monthly Temple Board meeting, VP of Social Action, Chip Dougherty explained the important goals of this committee for the coming months, and he strongly encouraged the members of the Board to attend the Interfaith Gathering and I’m sure that many of them will attend.
So please mark your calendars to attend and if your middle school and teen students are interested in joining the “pick-up chorus” for this program, we will rehearse from 2 PM until 3 PM. Hope to see you on the 29th.
B’shalom,
Rabbi Art
SAVE THE DATES: TOS 201 – What do Jews Believe?
Last fall we offered three sessions of TOS 101 for new members, those interested in becoming Jewish and anyone else interested in learning about the customs and traditions of our congregation. This coming spring, we are offering three sessions about what Jews believe. Classes will be held on Tuesdays, May 12, 19, and 26. Lunch-n-Learn will take place at 12 noon (bring a bag lunch) and evening classes at 7 PM. Classes are free to members and prospective members.
Tuesday, May 12th – What do Jews Believe about God? Tuesday, May 19th – What do Jews Believe about the After Life? Tuesday, May 26th – What do Jews Believe about being a ‘Good’ Jew?
Come to one or all three and bring your questions. Handouts will be provided. Please RSVP to .
12th ANNUAL NORTH HILLS INTERFAITH GATHERING
“Celebrating Our Diversity: Working for Change”
This event will be March 29th at TOS 3:00-5:00PM. We invite representatives from many faiths to give presentations on their traditions including: Baha’is, Buddhists, Christians, Hindus, Jews (us!) Mormons, Muslims, Quakers, Unitarian Universalists, and Zoroastrians. It is a wonderful learning experience bringing together people of all ages who may choose to attend any three of the breakout sessions of 10-12 different religions. This is the second time it has been held at our Temple and is made possible by the addition of the newly created separate spaces for the number of religions involved. Clemmy Brodsky
“How to Lead the ‘Perfect’ Seder? No Joking!”
Wed. April 1st – 12 Noon – bring a Brown Bag Lunch if you want
Or Wed. April 1st – 7 PM
Please bring your favorite Haggadah and questions, of course.
Rabbi Art will facilitate a discussion about the key elements of the Seder and how to lead ‘perfect’ regardless of whether your Matzah Balls are fluffy or cannonballs!!!
JEWISH MUSIC FESTIVAL: “TIFANI KATOF and FRIENDS”
We received a grant from the UJF of Pittsburgh to have a Jewish Music Festival. Come to Borders in the Northway Mall on Saturday, April 4th @ 5:00PM for a celebration of Jewish music with Tifani and friends. Enjoy Passover songs and Jewish musical theatre! And check out a musical preview on our website right here!
BAR MITZVAH PROJECTS
Hi, my name is Jason Weis. Please help our community and support my Mitzvah project by donating foods to the Squirrel Hill Food Pantry. Please drop off any donations in the coat room by the Sanctuary by March 26, 2009. If you have any questions, please call me at 724 443 4696. A flier is attached that describes what they need.
Thank you,
Jason
I am having a Bake Sale next Sunday, March 22nd to raise money for my Bat Mitzvah project “Nothing But Nets”. Please come and buy a treat when you drop your child off for Sunday school.
Thanks
Hannah Fassler
WOS/HADASSAH Afternoon at the Movies!
Join the Woman of Ohav on April 5th at 4:00PM for the movie: Arranged! A flier is attached. RSVP to Kathy @ by April 1st!
RECYCLING CONTAINER
The new recycling container is in! It has the side openings and smaller tops so please continue to recycle your newspapers and paper at the Temple.
PRESCHOOL HAPPENINGS!
It is hard to believe that summer is around the corner, and we are gearing up for Preschool Summer Camp. We are open to children from age 2 thru 5. The first session runs from June 8th -19th. The second session runs from June 22nd- July 3rd. You may sign up for one or both sessions. Each day includes inside and outside play, crafts, stories, snack and “water day”!
If you would like more information, please contact Liz in the preschool office at or 412-369-0621. Registration Form attached to the eWeekly
SPREAD THE WORD; RECEIVE $100 DISCOUNT
Help us spread the word about our wonderful preschool to your friends and neighbors in the North Hills. Our Temple Ohav Shalom Preschool provides a warm and nurturing environment where a love for learning is established. With low teacher to student ratios, enrichment activities such as yoga, music and Hebrew language, and a creative and loving staff, there is no reason to go anywhere else!
All members who recruit a new family to the preschool will receive a $100 discount on next year’s membership dues.* Questions may be directed to Elana Kriess, VP Preschool () or Liz Sender, Preschool Director ().
*Members must be in good standing to receive discount; new family must enroll their child in the preschool.
BUY YOUR CHILDREN’S ARTWORK!
The Temple Ohav Shalom Art Sale for Lifelong Learning is Sunday, April 5th from 9:00AM to 12 Noon. All proceeds go to our school!
PITTSBURGH RACE FOR THE CURE
Join fellow TOS members and friends on Mother’s Day (May 10th) at the Pittsburgh Race for the Cure! It is a beautiful day of celebration and remembrance for those touched by breast cancer. Your participation in the 2009 Race and the Dick’s Sporting Goods Pledge Program will help provide the necessary funding for education, screening and treatment programs to fight breast cancer in our region. Join us as we strive to end breast cancer forever. RUNNERS and WALKERS are welcome! Bring your CHILDREN… there is a 1 mile fun run/walk that you can do with your kids!
To register, or to get more information, go to http://www.pittsburghraceforthecure.org. Click on “Join an existing team” to find the Temple Ohav Shalom team. Elana Kriess (724-452-7043)
DO YOUR CHILDREN LIKE TO SING?
The 12th Annual North Hills Interfaith Gathering is having a combined chorus with the youth of Temple Ohav Shalom and other North Hills youth of diverse faiths. There is a one rehearsal immediately prior to the gathering on Sunday March 29th @ 2:00PM at Temple Ohav Shalom.
SAVE THE DATE – SAVE THE DATE – SAVE THE DATE – SAVE THE DATE
A Thank You Celebration for Our Cantorial Intern: Tifani Katof
Friday, May 15th at 7:30 PM, we will join together and celebrate our Cantorial Intern, Tifani Katof. Our special guest on evening to help with the celebration will be Rabbi Mark Mahler, from Temple Emanuel of the South Hills. Rabbi Mahler was Tifani’s rabbi growing up in Upper St. Clair. Besides being a talented orator, Rabbi Mahler is an accomplished guitarist. So save this date on your calendar for what will surely be a joyous Kabbalat Shabbat experience.
AN EVENING AT THE RACES!
Invitations went out and we’ve started selling horses for our fundraiser, “An Evening at the Races” on Tuesday’s and Sunday’s. Don’t be left out horses are only $10.00 each and are first come, first serve! Also sponsor a race for only $75 per race. If anyone would like to donate a product or service for the Silent Auction (i.e., golf for 4, weekend getaways, hotel overnights, sports tickets, autographed sports items, restaurant gift certificates, jewelry or any other products or services please contact Amy Covell at or (724) 772-8117. We are in need of Silent Auction items!
GIFT SHOP
The Gift Shop is open during Sunday School and by appointment. Contact Elaine Cohen - 412-364-8484 or Andi Turkheimer 412-367-7864. We have many beautiful items for all aspects of Jewish life. There is no need to go to Squirrel Hill - visit us first!
UPCOMING EVENTS
Friday, March 20th 6:15 PM Tot Shabbat
Sunday, March 29th 3:00PM-5:00PM 12th Annual Interfaith Gathering - Hosted at TOS-NEW DATE
Tuesday, March 31st 5:30 Pm B’nai Mitzvah Workshop—PARENT’S ONLY!
Saturday, April 4th 9:30 AM B’Nai Mitzvah Workshop
Saturday, April 18th NIGHT AT THE RACES! TOS Social Hall
Friday, April 24th 6:15PM Tot Shabbat (4th Friday this month)
Saturday, April 25th 9:00 AM Special Needs Shabbat Morning Experience (30 minutes)
Friday, May 15th 7:30PM Shabbat honoring Tifani Katof Guest Rabbi: Rabbi Mark Mahler
Friday May 15th 6:15 Tot Shabbat
SCHEDULE OF WORSHIP SERVICES FOR MARCH
Parashat Vayakhel-Pekudei
Friday, March 20 – 24 Adar, 5769
6:15 pm Tot Shabbat
7:30 pm Kabbalat Shabbat
Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof, Cantorial Intern
Saturday, March 21 – 25 Adar, 5769
10:00 am Shabbat Morning Service
Bar Mitzvah of Benjamin Gibbs
Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof
Parashat Vayikra
Friday, March 27 – 2 Nissan, 5769
7:30 pm Kabbalat Shabbat
Rabbi Donsky & Bobbie Harley
Saturday, March 28 – 3 Nissan, 5769
10:00 am Shabbat Morning Service
Bar Mitzvah of Brett Rodgers
Rabbi Donsky & Bill Lowenberger
What a wonderful and joyous Purim we celebrated together – Saturday night’s very successful spoof of Grease, Sunday’s terrific Carnival and Monday’s uplifting Megillah reading. While it’s easy to give into Purim’s zaniness, and think it’s only for children, the holiday does have a serious side.
Coming half through the year, one of the primary mitzvot (sacred obligations) of the holiday, is to “hear the Megillah.” (Others include giving Tzedaka, gifts to friends and to the poor). We are commanded, therefore, to stop and listen, to pay attention, which isn’t so easy in the midst of the chaos and noise!
Of course, literally this instruction concerns Megillat Ester, on a symbolic level, however, we may understand this mitzvah to encourage us to ‘stop and pay extra attention’ to those around us who are most important in our lives. Certainly this is something important and worth doing anytime of the year; half way through would be a significant time to take an accounting of how we are doing with our personal relationships (bein Adam l’haveiro) and our relationship with God (bein Adam l’Makom) since Yom Kippur, last Fall.
Finally, here’s another reminder that this Erev Shabbat we have a second candidate for our Soloist position for next year. Michele Gray-Schaffer, one of our religious schoolteachers and weekday t’fillah leader will join me on the Bima. Please plan to celebrate Shabbat with us this Friday and let us know what you think of this candidate.
B’shalom,
Rabbi Art
PS Save the date: April 4th – 5 PM at Border’s in Northway Mall – for a special Jewish music concert: “Tifani Katof and Friends” (See below as well as attached flyer for more details.)
JEWISH MUSIC FESTIVAL “TIFANI KATOF and FRIENDS”
We received a grant from the UJF of Pittsburgh to have a Jewish Music Festival. Come to Borders in the Northway Mall on Saturday, April 4th @ 5:00PM for a celebration of Jewish music with Tifani and friends. Enjoy Passover songs and Jewish musical theatre!
PRESCHOOL HAPPENINGS!
It is hard to believe that summer is around the corner, and we are gearing up for Preschool Summer Camp. We are open to children from age 2 thru 5. The first session runs from June 8th -19th. The second session runs from June 22nd- July 3rd. You may sign up for one or both sessions. Each day includes inside and outside play, crafts, stories, snack and “water day”!
If you would like more information, please contact Liz in the preschool office at or 412-369-0621. Registration Form attached to the eWeekly
BUY YOUR CHILDREN’S ARTWORK!
The Temple Ohav Shalom Art Sale for Lifelong Learning is Sunday, April 5th from 9:00AM to 12 Noon. All proceeds go to our school!
Fundraising Baskets
A special “Thank You” to all the religious school parents who donated items for the fundraising gift baskets. Enough items were collected from the Kindergarten, 3rd and 4th grade classes to create three fun-filled baskets of Webkinz, Arts and Crafts and Sports equipment auctioned off at the Purim Carnival on Sunday. The remainder of the donations will be utilized to create baskets for the “Night at the Races” event on April 18th. There is still time to make your donation if you haven’t done so. Below are the recommended items we are looking for from each class; however, any donation would be greatly appreciated. Marcie Fassler & WOS
1st Grade - Cartoons/Disney
2nd Grade - Pittsburgh
5th Grade - Pamper Me
6th Grade - Gift Cards
7th Grade - Night at the Movies
8th Grade - Italian Dinner
9th - 12th Grade - In the Kitchen
Consultation on Conscience
The Consultation on Conscience is taking place April 19-21, 2009. We have an exciting program of speakers and sessions that address a broad array of international and domestic concerns. You can learn more at http://www.rac.org/conc What do President Clinton, Rabbi Michael Lerner, Senator Russ Feingold, Vice President Al Gore, and Elie Wiesel have in common? They have all been speakers at the Consultation on Conscience, Reform Judaism’s flagship social justice conference. Join us, Reform Jewish leaders, and public policy decision makers to bring social justice insight to your community!
PITTSBURGH RACE FOR THE CURE
Join fellow TOS members and friends on Mother’s Day (May 10th) at the Pittsburgh Race for the Cure! It is a beautiful day of celebration and remembrance for those touched by breast cancer. Your participation in the 2009 Race and the Dick’s Sporting Goods Pledge Program will help provide the necessary funding for education, screening and treatment programs to fight breast cancer in our region. Join us as we strive to end breast cancer forever. RUNNERS and WALKERS are welcome! Bring your CHILDREN… there is a 1 mile fun run/walk that you can do with your kids!
To register, or to get more information, go to http://www.pittsburghraceforthecure.org. Click on “Join an existing team” to find the Temple Ohav Shalom team. Elana Kriess (724-452-7043)
12th ANNUAL NORTH HILLS INTERFAITH GATHERING
“Celebrating Our Diversity: Working for Change”
This event will be March 29th at TOS 3:00-5:00PM. We invite representatives from many faiths to give presentations on their traditions including: Baha’is, Buddhists, Christians, Hindus, Jews (us!) Mormons, Muslims, Quakers, Unitarian Universalists, and Zoroastrians. It is a wonderful learning experience bringing together people of all ages who may choose to attend any three of the breakout sessions of 10-12 different religions. This is the second time it has been held at our Temple and is made possible by the addition of the newly created separate spaces for the number of religions involved. Clemmy Brodsky
DO YOUR CHILDREN LIKE TO SING?
The 12th Annual North Hills Interfaith Gathering is having a combined chorus with the youth of Temple Ohav Shalom and other North Hills youth of diverse faiths. There is a one rehearsal immediately prior to the gathering on Sunday March 29th @ 2:00PM at Temple Ohav Shalom.
BOARD ELECTIONS
The Leadership Development/Elections Committee is in the process of preparing a slate of candidates in advance of the open-nominations period April 1-15. The position that still needs to be filled on the slate is Vice President-Fundraising for a two-year term beginning June 1 and ending May 31, 2011. Several congregants have expressed willingness to serve on the Fundraising Committee but it still needs a chairperson who will serve on the temple board of directors as VP-Fundraising. Kindly contact Elections Committee chairman Bill Lowenberger by Tuesday, March 17, at 412-367-2974 or e-mail at if you are interested in running for this position.
SAVE THE DATE – SAVE THE DATE – SAVE THE DATE – SAVE THE DATE
A Thank You Celebration for Our Cantorial Intern: Tifani Katof
Friday, May 15th at 7:30 PM, we will join together and celebrate our Cantorial Intern, Tifani Katof. Our special guest on evening to help with the celebration will be Rabbi Mark Mahler, from Temple Emanuel of the South Hills. Rabbi Mahler was Tifani’s rabbi growing up in Upper St. Clair. Besides being a talented orator, Rabbi Mahler is an accomplished guitarist. So save this date on your calendar for what will surely be a joyous Kabbalat Shabbat experience.
COLLEGE STUDENTS: CONFLICT TRANSFORMATION SUMMER PROGRAM
Abraham’s Vision is now accepting applications for the 2009-2010 Vision Program from Jewish & Palestinian university students, from the US and abroad, to participate in an experiential educational trip through the former Yugoslavia. You can download the application at: http://www.abrahamsvision.org
16th ANNUAL PITTSBURGH JEWISH ISRAELI FILM FESTIVAL-North Hills
If anyone would like to attend the film in the North Hills (A Secret) on March 17th at 7:30PM at the Caermike Cranberry 8, and would like to buy tickets at the group rate, please contact Joanne Sosniak at or 412-427-3662. Looking forward to seeing everyone on the 17th and at other films throughout the Greater Pittsburgh area. Thanks, Joanne
AN EVENING AT THE RACES!
Invitations went out and we’ve started selling horses for our fundraiser, “An Evening at the Races” on Tuesday’s and Sunday’s. Don’t be left out horses are only $10.00 each and are first come, first serve! Also sponsor a race for only $75 per race. If anyone would like to donate a product or service for the Silent Auction (ie., golf for 4, weekend getaways, hotel overnights, sports tickets, autographed sports items, restaurant gift certificates, jewelry or any other products or services please contact Amy Covell at or (724) 772-8117. We are in need of Silent Auction items!
GIFT SHOP
The Gift Shop is open during Sunday School and by appointment. Contact Elaine Cohen - 412-364-8484 or Andi Turkheimer 412-367-7864. We have many beautiful items for all aspects of Jewish life. There is no need to go to Squirrel Hill - visit us first!
UPCOMING EVENTS
Saturday, March 14th 9:30 AM B’Nai Mitzvah Workshop
Sunday, March 15th 1:00-4:00 PM Mah Jong
Friday, March 20th 6:15 PM Tot Shabbat
Sunday, March 29th 3:00PM-5:00PM 12th Annual Interfaith Gathering - Hosted at TOS-NEW DATE
Tuesday, March 31st 5:30 Pm B’nai Mitzvah Workshop—PARENT’S ONLY!
Saturday, April 4th 9:30 AM B’Nai Mitzvah Workshop
Saturday, April 18th NIGHT AT THE RACES! TOS Social Hall
Friday, May 15th 7:30Pm Shabbat honoring Tifani Katof Guest Rabbi: Rabbi Mark Mahler
SCHEDULE OF WORSHIP SERVICES FOR MARCH
Parashat Ki Tissa
Friday, March 13 - 17Adar, 5769
7:30 pm Kabbalat Shabbat
Rabbi Donsky & Michelle Gray-Schaffer (audition)
Saturday, March 14 – 18 Adar, 5769
10:00 am Shabbat Morning Service
Rabbi Donsky & Bill Lowenberger
REMINDER: Due to the Purim Festival, Sunday school is 10:00-12:00 this coming weekend. And don’t forget to set your clock forward Saturday night!
Dear Friends,
Purim! Just the mention of this fun Feast of Lots brings joy to my heart and I hope yours, too. We at Temple Ohav Shalom have sought to make Purim a celebration unlike any other. This year plans to be no different:
March 7th, Saturday Night at 7 PM: “Schmaltz: A Greased Purim” featuring dozens of future Oscar winners from our very own congregation. Directed by our Cantorial Intern, Tifani Katof.
March 8th, Sunday, starting at 12 Noon: Our Purim Carnival!!!!
March 9th, Monday night at 7 PM: Purim Megillah Reading – Sharing the Story of Esther. Shake your groggers all night long!
And then Tuesday evening at 5:30 PM (at the beginning of Hebrew school) we will offer another opportunity to fulfill the mitzvah of hearing the Megillah.
And don’t forget that this Friday is our First Friday Shabbat Experience with “Dinner for All” at 6 PM and then our 7 PM “very kid friendly” service led in part by our Kitah Bet (2nd Graders) students.
See you soon……come celebrate….rejoice…..be a part of our wonderful community!
B’shalom
Rabbi Art Donsky
FIRST FRIDAY DINNER—MARCH 6th
Our next First Friday dinner is next week, March 6th. A-M families bring a side dish, N-Z bring dessert. Kitah Bet (2nd Grade) are hosting this dinner. Please RSVP to Elliot or call.
NOTE: Parents, we have had problems with unsupervised children during dinners. The upstairs education wing and the downstairs education wing are off limits to unsupervised children. They should remain within the social hall. Thanks for helping.
Bake Sale items are needed for the Purim Carnival (Sunday March 8th)! Anything that can be served individually (brownies, cookies, and especially hamentaschen) will make the Carnival more fun for everyone and help our fundraising efforts. Bring your donations to the Social Hall that morning. If it would more convenient for you to drop off your donation before Sunday, contact Ginger Solomon at or 412-548-2164.
Thanks!
Ginger
PITTSBURGH RACE FOR THE CURE
Join fellow TOS members and friends on Mother’s Day (May 10th) at the Pittsburgh Race for the Cure! It is a beautiful day of celebration and remembrance for those touched by breast cancer. Your participation in the 2009 Race and the Dick’s Sporting Goods Pledge Program will help provide the necessary funding for education, screening and treatment programs to fight breast cancer in our region. Join us as we strive to end breast cancer forever. RUNNERS and WALKERS are welcome! Bring your CHILDREN… there is a 1 mile fun run/walk that you can do with your kids!
To register, or to get more information, go to http://www.pittsburghraceforthecure.org. Click on “Join an existing team” to find the Temple Ohav Shalom team.
Elana Kriess (724-452-7043)
JEWISH MUSIC FESTIVAL
We received a grant from the UJF of Pittsburgh to have a Jewish Music Festival. On April 4th @ 5:00PM Tifani Katof and friends will perform Songs of Freedom & Songs of Joy at Borders. More information will follow!
DO YOUR CHILDREN LIKE TO SING?
The 12th Annual North Hills Interfaith Gathering is having a combined chorus with the youth of Temple Ohav Shalom and other North Hills youth of diverse faiths. There is a one rehearsal immediately prior to the gathering on Sunday March 29th @ 2:00PM at Temple Ohav Shalom.
BOARD ELECTIONS
The Leadership Development/Elections Committee is in the process of preparing a slate of candidates in advance of the open-nominations period April 1-15. The position that still needs to be filled on the slate is Vice President-Fundraising for a two-year term beginning June 1 and ending May 31, 2011. Several congregants have expressed willingness to serve on the Fundraising Committee but it still needs a chairperson who will serve on the temple board of directors as VP-Fundraising. Kindly contact Elections Committee chairman Bill Lowenberger by Tuesday, March 17, at 412-367-2974 or e-mail at if you are interested in running for this position.
Bar Mitzvah Project: Play It Forward Musical Instrument Donation and Re-use
Coleman Dougherty, one of our Temple Ohav Shalom B’nai Mitzvah students, has started the Play it Forward musical instrument donation and re-use program. In reflecting on what to do for his mitzvah project, Coleman naturally thought about the things that were important to him personally and how they impacted his quality of life. His passion for music and the place that it occupies in his daily routine led him to consider that some kids who might want to learn to play an instrument may not have access to one.
Play It Forward is a program designed to match up gently-used instruments with budding young musicians. Coleman is asking you to search your closets for any instrument that you have that is no longer serving a need in your home. The instruments will be re-furbished and initial donations will be dedicated to Hope Academy of East Liberty and the Afro-American Music Institute of Homewood – 2 deserving local organizations that Coleman has identified. Children who would not otherwise be able to pursue their love of music will be given an opportunity to do so – thanks to your generous tax-deductible donation.
Please join us March 7, 2000 from noon – 4 pm for Play It Forward’s instrument collection at Construction Junction. Even if you don’t have an instrument to donate, we invite you to join us for an afternoon of fun and musical entertainment to help kick of this pilot program.
You can reach Play It Forward by e-mail at or by phone at 412-487-8191. We will also accept instruments and sheet music at an alternate time if you are unavailable on this date.
SAVE THE DATE – SAVE THE DATE – SAVE THE DATE – SAVE THE DATE
A Thank You Celebration for Our Cantorial Intern: Tifani Katof
Friday, May 15th at 7:30 PM, we will join together and celebrate our Cantorial Intern, Tifani Katof. Our special guest on evening to help with the celebration will be Rabbi Mark Mahler, from Temple Emanuel of the South Hills. Rabbi Mahler was Tifani’s rabbi growing up in Upper St. Clair. Besides being a talented orator, Rabbi Mahler is an accomplished guitarist. So save this date on your calendar for what will surely be a joyous Kabbalat Shabbat experience.
16th ANNUAL PITTSBURGH JEWISH ISRAELI FILM FESTIVAL-North Hills
If anyone would like to attend the film in the North Hills (A Secret) on March 17th at 7:30PM at the Carmike Cranberry 8, and would like to buy tickets at the group rate, please contact Joanne Sosniak at or 412-427-3662. Looking forward to seeing everyone on the 17th and at other films throughout the Greater Pittsburgh area. Thanks,Joanne
AN EVENING AT THE RACES!
Invitations went out and we’ve started selling horses for our fundraiser, “An Evening at the Races” on Tuesday’s and Sunday’s. Don’t be left out horses are only $10.00 each and are first come, first serve! Also sponsor a race for only $75 per race. If anyone would like to donate a product or service for the Silent Auction (ie., golf for 4, weekend getaways, hotel overnights, sports tickets, autographed sports items, restaurant gift certificates, jewelry or any other products or services please contact Amy Covell at or (724) 772-8117. We are in need of Silent Auction items!
INTRO TO JUDAISM
Introduction to Judaism is a hands-on course that teaches beginners about the basics of Jewish history, thought and practice. The class runs 23 weeks and presents a mix of study, discussion and practical experiences designed for all interested in exploring a Jewish life for themselves--interfaith couples and/or non-Jews considering
conversion.
Taught by several Reform Rabbis form the Greater Pittsburgh area, Introduction to Judaism could be right for you. Completion of the course is only one part of the journey to Judaism for those who are considering conversion. Please speak with your Rabbi about registration. Every participant must be sponsored by a local Rabbi.
Classes are held on Thursdays at 7-9 PM at Rodef Shalom Congregation beginning on May 7, 2009 and continuing through October. Travel plans should not stop you from registering for the class.
TOS BLOOD DRIVE
Did you know that Central Blood Bank must see over 725 donors’ everyday in order to meet the needs of patients in local hospitals? Your donation will help ensure that blood is there when a local patient needs blood to recover from an accident or illness. We will have a blood drive from 9:00Am – 3:00AM during the Purim Carnival on Sunday, March 8th! Please give blood. Please logon to http://www.centralbloodbank.org and enter sponsor code G0020019 or call Peggy Jopling at 724-935-4902 to schedule your lifesaving appointment. You an also sign up outside the Sanctuary.
SOCIAL ACTION: VOLUNTEER…YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
2009 FAMILY VOLUNTEER MISSIONS IN NEW ORLEANS
Be part of a social action experience that is educational, spiritual and fun. Volunteer Expeditions (http://www.volunteerexpeditions.org) has planned two missions to New Orleans for families (children 12 and up).
Do good while having fun. Enjoy the culture of New Orleans while engaging in mitzvah projects that will benefit those affected by Hurricane Katrina.
Included are all land arrangements:
- Private transportation
- Trip host
- Accommodations
- Tours of Jewish New Orleans
- Volunteer experiences
- Outstanding speakers who explain the city culture and challenges
- Breakfast and lunch and dinner each day (one dinner on your own)
- Mitzvah projects
October 18-22, (5 days/4 nights) $995 per person
November 22- 25, (4 days/3 nights) $795 per person. Well known Jewish Educator Sharon Morton will accompany this trip.
Trips are based on double occupancy. Special pricing is available for families of 4 or more. For information or to plan a group trip, contact Patti Vile, 847-835-1142
GIFT SHOP
The Gift Shop is open during Sunday School and by appointment. Contact Elaine Cohen - 412-364-8484 or Andi Turkheimer 412-367-7864. We have many beautiful items for all aspects of Jewish life. There is no need to go to Squirrel Hill - visit us first!
UPCOMING EVENTS
Thursday, March 5th 7:30PM Temple Youth Committee
Friday, March 6th 6:00 PM First Friday Family Dinner Kitah Bet
Saturday, March 7th 5:00PM Final Purim Rehearsal
Saturday, March 7th “Schmaltz: A Greased Purim” 7 PM – Our Purim Shpiel!
Sunday, March 8th PURIM CARNIVAL & BLOOD DRIVE
Saturday, March 14th 9:30 AM B’Nai Mitzvah Workshop
Sunday, March 15th 1:00-4:00 PM Mah Jong
Friday, March 20th 6:15 PM Tot Shabbat
Sunday, March 29th 3:00PM-5:00PM 12th Annual Interfaith Gathering - Hosted at TOS-NEW DATE
Tuesday, March 31st 5:30 Pm B’nai Mitzvah Workshop—PARENT’S ONLY!
Saturday, April 4th 9:30 AM B’Nai Mitzvah Workshop
Saturday, April 18th NIGHT AT THE RACES! TOS Social Hall
Friday, May 15th 7:30Pm Shabbat honoring Tifani Katof Guest rabbi: Rabbi Mark Mahler
SCHEDULE OF WORSHIP SERVICES FOR MARCH
Parashat Tetzaveh
Friday, March 6 – 10 Adar, 5769
6:00 pm Dinner-for-All
7:00 pm First Friday Kabbalat Shabbat
Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof, Cantorial Intern
Saturday, March 7 – 11 Adar, 5769
10:00 am Shabbat Morning Service
Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof
7:00pm Purim Play
Parashat Ki Tissa
Friday, March 13 - 17Adar, 5769
7:30 pm Kabbalat Shabbat
Rabbi Donsky & Michelle Gray-Schaffer (audition)
Saturday, March 14 – 18 Adar, 5769
10:00 am Shabbat Morning Service
Rabbi Donsky & Bill Lowenberger
Parashat Vayakhel-Pekudei
Friday, March 20 – 24 Adar, 5769
6:15 pm Tot Shabbat
7:30 pm Kabbalat Shabbat
Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof, Cantorial Intern
Saturday, March 21 – 25 Adar, 5769
10:00 am Shabbat Morning Service
Bar Mitzvah of Benjamin Gibbs
Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof
Parashat Vayikra
Friday, March 27 – 2 Nissan, 5769
7:30 pm Kabbalat Shabbat
Rabbi Donsky & Bobbie Harley
Saturday, March 28 – 3 Nissan, 5769
10:00 am Shabbat Morning Service
Bar Mitzvah of Brett Rodgers
Rabbi Donsky & Bill Lowenberger
