http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog News and announcements from Temple Ohav Shalom en Mdaninhirsch@comcast.net Copyright 2010 2010-02-08T19:01:00-05:00 http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/tuesday-night-hebrew-school-cancelled-due-to-the-weather-report/ http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/tuesday-night-hebrew-school-cancelled-due-to-the-weather-report/#When:19:01:00Z We’ve decided to cancel classes Tuesday night, Feb 9th, due to the pending inclement weather. Urgent Notices 2010-02-08T19:01:00-05:00 http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/tos-e-weekly-v4i6-october-28th-2009/ http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/tos-e-weekly-v4i6-october-28th-2009/#When:15:06:00Z (For the text on this weeks Torah portion, go to http://urj.org/torah/ ) Parashat Lech L’cha – Genesis 12:1 – 17:27 Table of Contents 1. Temple Office Hours 2. Schedule of Worship Services for October 3. October Events 4. Happy November Birthday 5. Happy November Anniversary 6. November Yahrzeit 7. Schedule of Worship Services for November 8. November Events 9. Youth News 10. 1st Friday Dinners Schedule 11. Tot Shabbat Schedule 12. Women of Ohav News 13. Special Notices 14. TOS Employment Stimulus Package 15. Temple Directory Information ** We are looking for folks to collect and donate yarn, beads, Judaic material and magazines for various arts and crafts projects at our School.  Please bring in items and address them to Elaine Bergstrom’s attention.  THANKS!!** 1. Temple Office Hours Monday - 10:00 am to 4:00 pm Tuesday - 10:00 am to 4:00 pm Wednesday - 10:00 am to 4:00 pm Thursday - OFFICE CLOSED Friday - 10:00 am to 4:00 pm 2. Schedule of Worship Services for October Parashat Lech-Lecha Friday, October 30 --- 12 Heshvan, 5770 7:00pm Kabbalat Shabbat Marshal Auron Saturday, October 31 --- 13 Heshvan, 5770 10:00am Shabbat Morning Rabbi Donsky 3. October Events Weds, Oct 28th 7:30pm Melton Adult Mini Class Thurs, Oct 29th 7:00pm Preschool Back to School Night 4. Happy November Birthday 3 Amanda Boehmke Jason Piechowicz 6 Jared Cohen 7 Natalie Stahl 9 Julia Solomon 10 Max Fleischer 16 Benjamin Pasternak 17 Chloe Geller Daniel Lebovitz 18 Benjamin Pizov 19 Jillian Siegal 20 Tyler Skirble Sara Weiss 23 Shane Mitnick Andrew Roth 26 Casey Ferrara 28 Abigail Savitz Lane Trust 29 Phil Krassenstein 30 Alison Karsh Caleb Karsh 5. Happy November Anniversary 2 Todd and Susan Hertzberg Doug and Deb Taylor 3 Mike and Tara Ginsburg Alan and Pam Peisakoff 4 Ed and Marcie Fassler 5 Domenic and Daryl Jean Marks 6 Richard and Leslie Snow Brad and Amy Trust 15 Scott and Marcella Pollock 29 Luke and Corri Parrinello 6. November Yahrzeit May Their Memories Be For A Blessing November 2 / Heshvan 15 Paul Begler Father of Arnold Begler November 4 / Heshvan 17 Claryne Leatrice Karsh Mother of Ken & Ralph Karsh November 6 / Heshvan 19 Anita Parrinello Mother of Luke Parrinello November 7 / Heshvan 20 Joel Greenberg Brother of Linda Greenberg November 8 / Hersvan 21 John Sample Father of John R. Sample November 9 / Heshvan 22 Marilyn Elefant Mother of Karen Borden November 10 / Heshvan 23 Irvin Moschinsky Brother of Gerri Greenberg November 15 / Heshvan 28 Bernard Sanders Father of Mark Heims Sanders November 18 / Kislev 1 Rose Kaufman Mother of Herb Kaufman 7. Schedule of Worship Services for November Parashat Vayera Friday, November 6 --- 19 Heshvan, 5770 6:00pm Dinner for All 7:00pm First Friday Family Service Rabbi Donsky & Nikki Avershal Saturday, November 7 --- 20 Heshvan, 5770 10:00am Shabbat Morning Service Bat Mitzvah of Allison Shepard Rabbi Donsky & Nikki Avershal Parashat Chayei Sarah Friday, November 13 --- 26 Heshvan, 5770 6:15pm Tot Shabbat 7:30pm Kabbalat Shabbat Rabbi Donsky & Nikki Avershal Saturday, November 14 --- 27 Heshvan, 5770 10:00am Shabbat Morning Service Rabbi Donsky & Nikki Avershal Parashat Toldot Friday, November 20 ---3 Kislev, 5770 7:30pm Kabbalat Shabbat Rabbi Donksy & Gerri Greenberg Saturday, November 21 --- 4 Kislev, 5770 10:00am Shabbat Morning Service Rabbi Donsky Parashat Vayetzei Friday, November 27 --- 10 Kislev, 5770 7:30pm Kabbalat Shabbat Bill Lowenberger Saturday, November 28 --- 11 Kislev, 5770 10:00am Shabbat Morning Service Rabbi Donsky 8. November Events Sun, Nov 1st 1-4:00pm Mah Jongg Tues, Nov 3rd No Religious School Weds, Nov 4th 7:00pm Melton Adult Mini Class Fri, Nov 6th 6:00pm Dinner for All Sat, Nov 7th 10:00am Bat Mitzvah of Allison Shepard Sun, Nov 8th No Religious School-In Service Teacher Faculty Day Set Up the Book Fair/Sale Starts Mon, Nov 9th Weds, Nov 11th 7:00pm Melton Adult Mini Class Fri, Nov 13th 6:15pm Tot Shabbat Mon, Nov 16th 7:30pm Board Meeting Tues, Nov 17th 5:30pm WOS Board Weds, Nov 18th 7:30pm Melton Adult Mini Class Fri & Sat 20&21 NA Away Fall Kallah Tues, Nov 24th No Religious School Thurs, Nov 26 Thanksgivng Day Preschool Break through Mon, Nov 30th Sun, Nov 29th No Religious School 9. Youth News Calling all singers 3rd-8th grade!!! If you haven’t heard we are re-instating Ohav Shalom’s Youth Chorus KOL YAFEH Interested students should join us for rehearsals from 12-1 pm every other Sunday after Religious School. Parents please mark these rehearsal dates on your calendar: October 25th November 15th December 13th January 10th January 24th February 28th March 14th March 28th April 11th April 25th NFTY – PAR’S FALL KALLAH is November 20th-22nd.  9th – 12th Graders can register now at http://www.nfty.org Any Questions? Email/ Call Nikki @ NikkiOhav@gmail.com, 412 369 0900 x 14 10. Schedule of 1st Fridays Shabbat Dinners aka “Dinners for All” (All dinners begin at 6:00 PM unless otherwise noted.) (The entire congregation is welcome at all of these dinners!) 1) November 6 Grade 5 2) December 4 Grade 4 3) December 18 Hanukkah Celebration 4) January 8* Grade 3 5) February 5 Grade 2 6) March 5 Grade 1 7) April 9* Kindergarten 8) May 7 Grades 9, 10, 11, & 12 • scheduled on second Friday due holiday 11. Tot Shabbat Schedule (Special Worship Service begins at 6:15 PM) (Dinner follows immediately – approximately 6:45 PM) 1) November 13th 2) December 18th * 3) January 22nd 4) February 19th 5) March 19th 6) April 16th *Hanukkah Celebration for all families 12. Women of Ohav News Women of Ohav Shalom… Do you love watching football? Or do you just love noshing on the food? Either way, please join us for the Women of Ohav Shalom Paid Up Members Lunch Tailgating Party Join us in cheering on the Steelers Sunday, November 22,12:30pm at Beth Mongilio’s home, 117 Field Brook Lane, Gibsonia, PA 15044 Please RSVP by November 15 to Beth Mongilio 724-443-3566 or enmsmom@msn.com November 10 from 5:30-7:30pm Please join Patty and WOS members for conversation and recipe sharing. This months theme is Thanksgiving. Please join us for a nosh and good conversation. The Book Fair will also be open. We hope to see you there and everyone including husbands are welcome. 13. Special Notices On Sunday, November 8th, our own Rabbi Donsky will be participating in “Pittsburgh Faith in Action Against the Death Penalty”, an Interfaith Initiative at the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.  The Rabbi will be on a panel of clergy and faith leaders in our area to discuss how our faiths speak to and about the death penalty. TOS SKI / SNOWBOARD CLUB The TOS Ski/Snowboard Club is here again!  This is a great way to enjoy the company of temple members and get a great deal on lift tickets, lessons, and rentals at Hidden Valley Ski Resort.  Here are the details: • Sessions are on Sundays after Religious school. (12pm – 10pm) Just drive to HV. Dates are 1/10/10, 1/24/10, 1/31/10, 2/7/10, 2/21/10, 2/28/10 • All costs cover the 5 sessions – that works out to $19 per lift ticket! (Regular price is $42 adults/ $32 kids) • Costs are: Lift Tickets -$95; Ski Rental - $65 Board rental - $85 Lessons - $70 (Adults and kids are the same price; minimum age of 7).  Lift tickets are mandatory, others are optional. • First step is sign up… We need 15 people minimum to make it happen, signed up by November 30.  You do not have to be a temple member to ski. Sign up here: http://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?formkey=dE0ydDQ0bUtlV0Q1cE5mNndLVkRhQ3c6MA Questions? Contact Dave Silberstein: at djsilbers@comcast.net; or 412-877-1104 Also, there is program for 4th and 5th graders where they can get some free lift tickets.  Go to: http://www.skipa.com See you on the slopes! SPORTS ITEMS NEEDED I will become a Bar-Mitzvah on April 17, 2010. For my Bar-Mitzvah project I am collecting sports items (hats, T-shirts, terrible towels, magazines, etc.) for a platoon of soldiers in Iraq who are from Pennsylvania and are big sports fans. They especially like the Steelers, Eagles, and Penguins. If you would be kind enough to donate any of these items there will be a collection bin in the temple, upstairs near the school entrance until November 22nd. If it is more convenient I can arrange to have items picked up. Thank You for your support. Jake Vries 724-272-2527 Teri_Vries@yahoo.com TEMPLE BOOK FAIR Get your new release of Diary of a Wimpy Kid, DOG DAYS, at the ANNUAL TOS Book Fair The book fair will be held during preschool hours from November 9th through the 20th, and on Tuesdays of religious school the 10th and 17th, Sundays during religious school 15th and 22nd.  Proceeds will benefit both the Temple and pre-school. Volunteers are needed for set-up, take down, and as cashiers during hours of operation, Anyone interested in helping, please contact Kathy Dougherty at 412-487-8191 or by email at katydoc@verizon.net GOLDMAN UNION CAMP INSTITUTE – FOR THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE Entering 3rd through 10th grade children from synagogues across the Midwest are currently being enrolled for the coming summer program at our regional U.R.J. camp, The Goldman Union Camp Institute.  DON’T LET YOUR CHILD MISS THIS CHANCE TO JOIN IN THE FUN AND FRIENSHIP OF G.U.C.I.  A four week session (a two week session is offered for entering 3rd and 4th graders) at Goldman Camp is a unique experience.  Campers participate in a full range of sports, arts and Jewish programs, all offered within the exciting and motivating atmosphere of a Refom Jewish community of young people.  There is simply no other experience like it. Scholarship and incentive grants are now available. Find out more about this wonderful opportunity for your child by picking up a 2010 Goldman Camp Brochure from the Temple office or call the camp directly @ 317-873-3361.  You can e-mail the camp at SDILL@URJ.org. There will be a Mah-Jongg on Sunday, November 1st from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. 14. TOS Employment Stimulus Package Temple Member Moira Singer is sharing information regarding the following job opportunity: Property Manager for Franklin West, Inc. responsible for managing two adjacent complexes in Oakmont.  This full time position comes with benefits and would be perfect for a sales and marketing professional with a PA Real Estate Sales License.  Contact temple member Moira Singer at singer@zoominternet.net for more information and a copy of the job posting. CompuWiz has a need for 2 full time employees:  IT Specialist and IT Sales.  Visit http://www.monster.com to find the job listings and details for both positions or call Eve at 412-847-0650 for more information. If you would like to place a listing, send an e-mail to Laura Flieder at flieder@juno.com or call 724-449-2779. 15. Temple Directory Information We are getting close to finalizing the new directory.  Please respond quickly to update your current information including an accurate e-mail address. If you are interested in placing an ad in the directory, please contact Amy Covell at acovell@zoominternet.net. Prices range from $50 to $800.  Don’t miss the opportunity.  Time is running out. Dear Members, Over the next few months, Amy Covell and I will be working to create a new Temple Directory.  Attached to the e-weekly is a TOS Directory Information Form.  Please fill it out and return it to either Ruth or Jessica in the office. Please list the names of all of the family members residing in your house. For children, please list their birth year only as we will not print exact birth dates in the new directory. Please list only one e-mail address and one phone number.  This will not have any effect on any additional e-mail addresses you have listed for receiving the e-weekly. We are also asking Temple members first, if they would like to place an ad in the Temple directory.  Amy has the size and rate information.  Due to current budgetary restrictions, we are looking to have the ads pay for the cost of the directory.  If we are unable to cover costs, we will have to sell the directories at a nominal cost. Wouldn’t you like your family or your business to be the one we can thank for having a new directory at no cost? If we do not receive a form for you by October 15th, we will use the information we currently have in our database. (Thanks), Laura Flieder TEMPLE OHAV SHALOM DIRECTORY INFORMATION (Please Print Clearly) ADULT NAME:_______________________________________________________________________________ ADULT NAME:________________________________________________________________________________ CHILD NAME:__________________________________________________YEAR OF BIRTH:_________________ CHILD NAME:__________________________________________________YEAR OF BIRTH:_________________ CHILD NAME:__________________________________________________YEAR OF BIRTH:_________________ CHILD NAME:__________________________________________________YEAR OF BIRTH:_________________ HOME ADDRESS:___________________________________________________________________________ CITY:________________________________________ STATE:________________ ZIP CODE:_____________ TELEPHONE(_______) ______________________________________ E-MAIL ADDRESS:__________________________________________________ TOS Directory Coming Soon… TOS Membership Directory Ad information AAdvertising space is limited.  This will be done on a first-come, first-served basis and isavailable in the prices shown below: Back Cover $800 Inside Covers $600 Opposite Directory $500 Full Page $300 Half Page $150 Quarter Page $75 Business Card Size $50 Interested? Contact Amy Covell by e-mail at acovell@zoominternet.net or 724-772-8117. eWeekly 2009-10-28T15:06:00-05:00 http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/preschool-at-tos-wins-best-preschool-in-the-burgh/ http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/preschool-at-tos-wins-best-preschool-in-the-burgh/#When:01:26:04Z According to the readers of Parents Connect, and GoCityKids, the Preschool at Temple Ohav Shalom has been voted #1 preschool in Pittsburgh! See the glowing reviews here! Announcements 2009-09-15T01:26:04-05:00 http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/new-times-for-sunday-school-and-hebrew-school/ http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/new-times-for-sunday-school-and-hebrew-school/#When:01:13:00Z It’s that time of year again! Sunday School begins this Sunday, September 13, at 9:30 AM, and Hebrew School commences Tuesday, Sept. 15 at 5:30 PM. Note that this is a NEW time for Sunday School this year. Announcements 2009-09-09T01:13:00-05:00 http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/florence-melton-adult-mini-school/ http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/florence-melton-adult-mini-school/#When:11:46:00Z The Florence Melton Adult Mini-School is coming to Temple Ohav Shalom!!! Yes, Finally!!!!!Melton is a two year adult education program devised by a team of scholars and educators at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.  It provides the opportunity for adults to achieve basic Jewish literacy in two years.  Learners are introduced to a broad spectrum of Jewish knowledge through an integrated, sequential course of study in a pluralistic and non denominational approach. 1st year classes: - Purposes of Jewish Living- Essential Jewish concepts and ideas as they unfold in the bible and other sacred texts. - Rhythms of Jewish Living- Central ideas which mold the traditional patterns of life cycles, holidays and practices which define and shape a Jewish life. Tuition: - Ohav Members:  $350 for 30 classes (partially subsidized by Ohav Shalom) - Non members:  $525 A $125 deposit is necessary to reserve your spot. The remainder can be paid throughout the year. Class begins Sept. 23rd To register, Click here to print the Registration Form and send to TOS, or contact Amy Karp at 412.521.1101 or l. Announcements 2009-06-22T11:46:00-05:00 http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/the-rabbis-challenge/ http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/the-rabbis-challenge/#When:11:41:00Z Dear Friends, We all know, too well, of the difficult economic situation facing our country and our own community.  Our congregation, like thousands around the country, is facing a financial short-fall that will affect our ability to offer the many needed services that we have come to expect in the past. Recently, I offered a challenge to the Executive Board and then to the Board that I want to share with you and encourage those of you, who are able to do so, to take up this challenge. I plan to donate a portion of my scheduled cost-of-living increase, $2,500, back to the temple. I challenge 10 individuals, families, or groups of individuals and families to match my tzedekah. While the $27,500 this challenge can raise won’t completely fix our current cash-flow and budget difficulties, I do believe that it will certainly help. I am a ready to do my part! In addition, I am very grateful to the hard work and long, long hours that our president, Ralph Karsh, and our treasurer, Martin Greenberg, along with the rest of the Executive Board and Board, have dedicated to our congregation during the past 10 months to guide us on a path toward fiscal solvency.  Yasher koach! (Way to go!) I urge you to please participate in this unique challenge today; as we say after we finish reading one of the books of Torah – hazak, hazak, v’nit’hazek – be strong, be strong and together we shall be strengthened. Please contact or to let them at what level you will participate; remember no amount is too small and by contributing together we can meet this challenge. B’shalom, Art Rabbi Art Donsky From Rabbi Art 2009-06-22T11:41:00-05:00 http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/llc-members-honored/ http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/llc-members-honored/#When:18:48:00Z This past Sunday, two member of our Lifelong Learning faculty, Deb Cohen, our Kindergarten (Gan Yeladim) teacher, and our Marci Barnes, Lifelong Learning Director, were honored by the Agency for Jewish Learning in two separate but important communal programs. Deb was recognized as one of the greater Pittsburgh Jewish community’s “Unsung Heroes” for her tremendous dedication to our youngest religious school students.  Each Sunday during the school year, Deb has offered a welcoming and warm classroom for these students as they continue their Jewish education after attending our pre-school.  Simply, Deb is a magician in the classroom because if you see her students at the beginning of the year and then watch them come the Spring you will be amazed about how confidant and comfortable they already feel about their connection of Judaism and our community.  Thank you Deb for all you do for our temple family and for the Jewish people each Sunday! Also, last Sunday, Marci Barnes, was honored by the AJL for her efforts to enhance our programming for our Special Needs students.  Marci with the help of our faculty members, especially Cathy Filson, and dedicated parents, has worked during this past year to ensure that all of students have an opportunity to experience a quality Jewish education.  Thank you, Marci for these efforts.  And thank you for all that you began to accomplish this past year. Sadly, because of our difficult financial situation, Marci, as you already have learned, will not be with us next year.  We will miss you and I know, that I speak for our congregation in wishing you only the best in the coming year. And this week we will also say thank you to Elliot Frank who has served our community as Executive Director for the past year and a half.  Elliot has worn many hats around the temple – treasurer, construction manager, administrator/executive director – and we are grateful for his dedication to the temple.  And we wish him well in his future endeavors. We like many, many small and medium size congregations around the country are facing very real financial difficulties because of the current state of our nation’s economy and our past deficit budgets.  Our president, Ralph Karsh, and members of the temple’s executive board, are currently preparing a detailed letter explaining our particular situation. This letter will be forthcoming soon, and I urge you to join us for a Congregational Meeting on Sunday, June 28th at 9:30 AM as we seek to move forward in the coming months towards a more secure fiscal future. B’shalom, Rabbi Art Donsky Announcements 2009-06-11T18:48:00-05:00 http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/eweekly-may-13-2009/ http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/eweekly-may-13-2009/#When:15:10:00Z TOS eWeekly Volume 3 Issue 33, May 13th 2009 (For the text on this weeks Torah portion, go to http://urj.org/torah/ )  From the Rabbi  Sometimes you meet a person for the first time and you click and a great connection blossoms and grows wonderfully.  I can say with great joy that during the last two years that I, along with many of you, have been privileged to enjoy such a musical and spiritual connection with our student Cantor, Tifani Katof, who we will be honoring this coming Friday, May 15th at our 7:30 PM Kabbalat Shabbat service.  Her childhood rabbi, Mark Mahler, from Temple Emanuel of the South Hills, will be joining us to celebrate Tifani so please make this Friday night, temple night for your family.   From the moment that Shara Taylor, Elaine Rose and I first interviewed Tifani more than two years ago, at the Student Cantor auditions our at reform movement’s School of Sacred Music on the New York campus of Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of  Religion, I knew that she would be a great addition to our temple family.  Tifani has served us with great dedication and enthusiasm, while at the same time; she has stretched and enhanced our understanding of Jewish music.  Her warm and soaring voice inspired us whether she was praying the majestic melodies of the High Holy Day liturgy, chanting niggunim (wordless melodies) during a 1st Friday service or leading our youngest worshippers in her or their favorite Tot Shabbat tunes.   Those of us who attended her special workshops on the history and development of Jewish music not only gained a great deal of information about our tradition’s sacred music, we also witnessed the ongoing development of a future Jewish leader.  One very lucky congregation will be blessed in a year from now when Tifani is invested as a Cantor. (She recently received her Master of Arts in Sacred Music and next year in addition to investiture she will also receive a Masters of Arts in Jewish Education).   The Psalmist reminds us, “Shiru La’donai shir chadash,” “Sing a new song to the Holy One”. Tifani has certainly fulfilled this charge teaching us new music while infusing the rest of our melodies with her “new and youthful” spirit.   Please join me in wishing Tifani blessing in all her “comings and goings” in her years ahead serving our people.   B’shalom,   Rabbi Art Donsky     PS  Our last Tot Shabbat of the school year will take place at 6:15 PM followed by our Pizza Dinner, so if you have little ones this would be a great time to join us and say thanks Tifani for her service to our community.   MAZEL TOV!  We welcome to our community, Jackson Mac Mason, son of Rebecca and Bob Mason who was born Monday evening, May 11th, 2009.  Mom and baby, and dad are doing well. The Bris is 6:30PM Monday, May 18th in the sanctuary.   LAST TOT SHABBAT OF THE YEAR!  This Friday, May 15th at 6:15PM. Please be sure to RSVP to Elliot at efrank@templeohavshalom.org or call if you will be attending.     GOOD & WELFARE  More Mazel Tov’s!    Marci Barnes, our Lifelong Learning Director, will be honored Sunday, June 7th by the Agency for Jewish Learning Special Education Services Department. Rabbi Bradley Artson, Dean of the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies at American Jewish University will be the guest speaker at the JCC in Squirrel Hill from 11:00Am-Noon.   Our own  Deb Cohen will also be honored that day by the AJL at 10:00AM!  She is one of 18 Jewish Educators from all across our community who are being honored as  Unsung Heroes. Sixteen institutions have chosen these talented and devoted individuals for recognition as their 2009 Jewish Educator of the Year. These educators will be individually recognized at a special ceremony that is open to the community at the AJL’s annual meeting, which will take place from 10 - 11 am at the Squirrel Hill JCC.    If you wish to attend, please RSVP to tsteinberg@ajlpittsburgh.org or call 412.521.11901, x. 3206   MEMBERSHIP LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES-2 MORE SESSIONS  The Rabbi is offering a series of classes called   TOS 201 – What do Jews Believe?   The two remaining classes will be held on Tuesdays, 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 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 Laura Flieder at flieder@juno.com or 724-449-2779.    GIFT SHOP Now that Sunday school is over for the year, the gift shop is on a summer schedule. We will be glad to meet you any time. Please call either Elaine Cohen 412-364-8484 or Andi Turkheimer 412-367-7864 so set an appointment. We have many items that will make beautiful engagement and wedding gifts, Bar and Bat Mitzvah tallit and gifts, and lovely Judaica items. Please visit us first. There is no need to go to Squirrel Hill.

   UPCOMING EVENTS   Tuesday, May 12th                   7:00PM  What Do Jews Believe (about God?)  TOS 201 Friday, May 15th                      7:30PM Shabbat honoring Tifani Katof Guest Rabbi: Rabbi Mark Mahler Tuesday, May 19th                   7:00PM  What Do Jews Believe (about the After Life?) TOS 201 Friday May 15th                       6:15  Tot Shabbat Thursday, May 21st                  Last Day of Pre-School! Tuesday, May 26th                   7:00PM  What Do Jews Believe (about being a ‘Good’ Jew?) TOS 201 Friday, July 3rd                          All American Pre-Shabbat Barbeque Friday, August 28th                   Shabbat In The Park   SCHEDULE OF WORSHIP  SERVICES FOR MAY    Parashat Behar – Behukotai Friday, May 15     21 lyar, 5769 6:15 pm        Tot Shabbat 7:30 pm         Kabbalat Shabbat                       Rabbi  Mark Mahler – Honoring Tifani                       Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof   Saturday, May 16 – 22 lyar, 5769 10:00 am       Shabbat Morning Service                       Bat Mitzvah of  Rena Ferrara                       Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof   Parashat Bamidbar Friday, May 22 – 28 lyar, 5769 7:30 pm         Kabbalat Shabbat                       Rabbi Donsky & Bobbie Harley   Saturday, May 23 – 29 lyar, 5769 10:00 am       Shabbat Morning Service                       Bat Mitzvah of  Becky Lebovitz                       Rabbi Donsky & Shara Taylor   Shavuot Friday, May 29 – 6 Sivan, 5769 7:30 pm          Kabbalat Torah                        10th Grade Graduation                        Rabbi Donsky & Shara Taylor   Saturday, May 30 – 7 Sivan, 5769 10:00 am        Shabbat Morning Service                        Bar Mitzvah of Andres Hoberman                        Rabbi Donsky & Bobby Harley eWeekly 2009-05-13T15:10:00-05:00 http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/eweekly-may-6-2009/ http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/eweekly-may-6-2009/#When:11:17:00Z TOS eWeekly Volume 3 Issue 32, May 6th 2009From the Rabbi On Pesakh we ask at least four questions. This week I have but one to pose.  What Jewish festival gets no respect?  The Rodney Dangerfield of Jewish celebrations is Shavuot. Even though Shavuot goes by several names from the Bible and the Rabbis it gets little respect. Our tradition calls it “The Festival of Weeks” (7 weeks after Pesakh), “The Festival of the Ingathering” (the barley harvest in the Spring), and “Z’man Matan Torateinu” (the Season of the Giving/our Receiving of the Torah).    Now I can understand why calling a festival “7 Weeks” doesn’t excite some people. And “the festival of the Ingathering” may not be any better for us city dwellers.  But the “Season of the Giving/Receiving of the Torah” should have everyone filling the sanctuary to standing room only just as the Israelites stood at Mt. Sinai over 3,000 years ago.   So why is it that many of us, especially in non-Orthodox communities (this not only a reform dilemma) ignore this ancient Biblically ordained festival?   Here are a few possibilities that I can think of, please feel free to share with me yours’:   1)      It comes very late in the school year (usually the very end of May or June) and most religious schools are finished and never get around to teaching about it and families and students are counting the days until school “real” is over ; 2)      Unlike Pesakh when we have a Seder and make use of the Haggadah or Sukkot when we put up a Sukkah and take up a lulav and etrog, Shavuot doesn’t have anything comparable; (except of the course, the Torah itself) 3)      In communities such as ours, while we hold the Torah in very high esteem and give it appropriate honor and respect, because we don’t believe literally in the story of the Revelation at Sinai and don’t observe Halakha, Jewish law, in a literal manner thus the pull of the festival is much less that Pesakh or Sukkot, not to mention Rosh HaShanah or Yom Kippur; 4)      Many in the Jewish community, consciously or unconsciously, still believe that Jewish education ends with Bat or Bat Mitzvah and that the celebrating of Kabbalat Torah/Confirmation of our young people at the end of 10th is still not well known.   What do you think?  Why doesn’t Shavuot get any respect? While you are contemplating your answer to this question why don’t you save the following date, Friday, May 29 at 7:30 PM when three of our young people, Emily Gibbs, Alex Greenblatt and Kate Rosenzweig will lead our Shavuot/Kabbalat Torah service and share their “Statements of Faith”, their personal remarks about what Judaism means them.    I look forward to hearing your replies and I look forward to wishing you “Hag HaShavuot Sameakh”, a joyous festival of receiving the Torah.   B’shalom, Rabbi Art Donsky    (For the text on this weeks Torah portion, go to  http://urj.org/torah/ )   A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT   Dear Temple Ohav Shalom Community,   I have not communicated with all of you in quite awhile and thought it was time to express some thoughts, say thank you and share some good news. I am blessed to have been voted in as President by the Board of Directors of our Temple and am enjoying the process of learning the responsibilities of the position. It feels like much longer than six months have passed since I became President. It has been especially interesting to discover all that I didn’t know about the office and its many duties and responsibilities.  One of the biggest blessings of this experience is the opportunity to be mentored by past presidents Bill Lowenberger, Maury Locke and Mike Rosenzweig. All three of these men have been unfailingly generous with their wisdom, time and energy.  Through their examples and teaching I am hoping to lead this Temple forward in a positive direction in the remaining year of my term.    The Board of directors as a whole is incredibly hardworking and dedicated. They should be commended by this congregation for the time, commitment, work and effort they put in for the betterment of our temple.   A perfect example of this effort is the recent “Night at the Races” fundraiser organized by our fundraising chair Amy Covell with help from her committee and the Women of Ohav Shalom. Everyone had a great time, even those of us who picked no winners, and the evening was a great success on both a social and financial level. This past Friday was the Teacher Appreciation Shabbat followed by a talent show where our youth displayed incredible musical abilities and Rabbi Art brought down the house with a moving rendition of the “B’nai Mitzvah Blues”. Everyone who attended had a fantastic time and I want to personally express my gratitude to the teachers, who make our religious and Hebrew school the best in greater Pittsburgh, Marci Barnes, our Education Director, and all of the talented youth who performed for us. Speaking of Marci Barnes, she is being honored by the Agency for Jewish Learning at an event at the Jewish Community Center on Sunday June 7, 2009 at 11:00 AM for her work with “special needs children”. Congratulations to Marcie for this wonderful recognition and for the great dedication she shows these children.   I want to encourage all congregants to attend our special service Friday night, May 15th, honoring our Cantorial intern, Tifani Katof. It is our opportunity to thank Tifani for all she has done leading our services, and providing educational and spiritual experience for our children these past two years. We wish her the best as she finishes her studies and in her upcoming marriage to Luic!   I want to take this opportunity to introduce you to   Nicole Avershal as our new music coordinator and youth advisor. Nikki will be singing at services, teaching in the school, helping tutor B’nai Mitzvah students and will also serve as our youth advisor! We welcome Nikki to our TOS family.   I also want to announce that through the generosity of the Snow family and the 2008-2009 B’nai Mitzvah class families, the Temple is acquiring new siddurim, the Mishkan T’filah. The Snows are making this donation in honor of the Blessed Memory of Richard’s parents, Martin W. Snow and Sylvia Snow.   As President, I have found myself spending more time at the Temple than I had previously. I have always thought of myself as being involved in our congregation but it is a very different experience when in this position. I am more convinced than ever that we have a very special community and that we are blessed by the caring, nurturing and generous character of our members. I am also more convinced that we all have to become more involved, attend more functions, come to more services, and give our time. Through this involvement our community will grow, our relationships with each other grow deeper, and our temple will prosper. The summer is coming which usually equates to the slow time in Temple activity. Please take this time and consider what you and your families can do to become more involved in Temple life and to help our community flourish.   B’shalom   Ralph    TALENT SHOW  The talent show was held last Friday, May 1, and benefited the Squirrel Hill Food Pantry. You can still drop off kosher canned goods at the Temple, and checks (addressed to the Squirrel Hill Food Pantry) can either be sent or dropped off at the Lifelong Learning Office.   Thanks,   Naomi     MEMBERSHIP LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES  The Rabbi is offering a series of classes called   TOS 201 – What do 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 Laura Flieder at flieder@juno.com or 724-449-2779.   PITTSBURGH RACE FOR THE CURE 
We now have a team of 10 people who, together, have raised over $1300 for this cause!!
 
Join fellow TOS members 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 will help provide the necessary funding 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)     GIFT SHOP Now that Sunday school is over for the year, the gift shop is on a summer schedule. We will be glad to meet you any time. Please call either Elaine Cohen 412-364-8484 or Andi Turkheimer 412-367-7864 so set an appointment. We have many items that will make beautiful engagement and wedding gifts, Bar and Bat Mitzvah tallit and gifts, and lovely Judaica items. Please visit us first. There is no need to go to Squirrel Hill.   UPCOMING EVENTS  Friday, May 8th                        11:30Am  Pre-School Mother’s Tea Tuesday, May 12th                   7:00PM  What Do Jews Believe (about God?)  TOS 201 Friday, May 15th                      7:30PM Shabbat honoring Tifani Katof Guest Rabbi: Rabbi Mark Mahler Tuesday, May 19th                   7:00PM  What Do Jews Believe (about the After Life?) TOS 201 Friday May 15th                       6:15  Tot Shabbat Thursday, May 21st                  Last Day of Pre-School! Tuesday, May 26th                   7:00PM  What Do Jews Believe (about being a ‘Good’ Jew?) TOS 201 Friday, July 3rd                          All American Pre-Shabbat Barbeque Friday, August 28th                   Shabbat In The Park   SCHEDULE OF WORSHIP  SERVICES FOR MAY Parashat Emor Friday, May 8         14 lyar, 5769 7:30 pm         Kabbalat Shabbat                       Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof   Saturday, May 9     15 lyar,  5769 10:00 am        Shabbat Morning Service                        Bar Mitzvah of Jason Weis                        Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof   Parashat Behar – Behukotai Friday, May 15     21 lyar, 5769 6:15 pm        Tot Shabbat 7:30 pm         Kabbalat Shabbat                       Rabbi  Mark Mahler – Honoring Tifani                       Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof   Saturday, May 16 – 22 lyar, 5769 10:00 am       Shabbat Morning Service                       Bat Mitzvah of  Rena Ferrara                       Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof   Parashat Bamidbar Friday, May 22 – 28 lyar, 5769 7:30 pm         Kabbalat Shabbat                       Rabbi Donsky & Bobbie Harley   Saturday, May 23 – 29 lyar, 5769 10:00 am       Shabbat Morning Service                       Bat Mitzvah of  Becky Lebovitz                       Rabbi Donsky & Shara Taylor   Shavuot Friday, May 29 – 6 Sivan, 5769 7:30 pm          Kabbalat Torah                        10th Grade Graduation                        Rabbi Donsky & Shara Taylor   Saturday, May 30 – 7 Sivan, 5769 10:00 am        Shabbat Morning Service                        Bar Mitzvah of Andres Hoberman                        Rabbi Donsky & Bill Lowenberger   eWeekly 2009-05-06T11:17:00-05:00 http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/eweekly-april-292009/ http://www.templeohavshalom.org/weblog/eweekly-april-292009/#When:19:43:00Z TOS eWeekly Volume 3 Issue 31, April 29th 2009 This week we welcome the month of May with a double Torah portion, Aharei Mot – Kedoshim. These portions contain some of our Torah’s key texts, the Yom Kippur scapegoat ritual and the Holiness Code, respectively.  In the latter portion we are taught, “v’ahavta l’rey’a’ha k’mokha, ani Adonai,” “you shall love [be loyal] your neighbor as yourself, I am the Eternal.” Historical, of course, this ancient Torah command meant showing loyalty to your fellow Israelite kinsperson. Our sages and teachers over time came to interpret the Torah’s words more broadly. Now, these sacred words remind us year in and year out how we must relate to our neighbors, our fellow humans beings, whether they live next door to us or half a world away, whether Jew or Gentile, Protestant or Catholic, Buddhist or Muslim, Hindu or Sikh. Yes, of course, there are times when it is awfully difficult to fulfill this mitzvah, this sacred obligation, when relating to those outside of our familiar circle of family and friends, however, this is when I believe it is all the more important. Two weeks ago I had the privilege of meeting and sharing a meal with Dr. Izzeldin Abuelaish, a Palestinian physician, and a Nobel Peace prize nominee, from Gaza who spoke at the Jewish Community Center.  Dr. Abuelaish, you may remember, in the early hours of January 16th, after speaking to a variety of individuals at the JCC on January 15th via cell phone Gaza, lost three of his daughters to an Israeli rocket attack on his home. (This horrific tragedy was determined to be an accident and the Israeli government will compensate his family). You may listen to Dr. Abuelaish’s presentation from the JCC by clicking on this link. While I cannot do justice to his remarks in this small space, let me say that in spite of his terrible loss, Dr. Abuelaish’s intense personal Muslim faith and his over arching love for humanity have allowed him to overcome the desire for revenge or the creation of a life of hatred. Instead, he is an example someone fulfilling God’s demand to be “loyal to your neighbor” even in the midst of the most awful moments in his life. May Dr. Abuelaish’s example of “kedushat haShem”, sanctifying God’s name, be an inspiration for us even in the darkest moments of our own lives and even at times when true justice and peace between Israelis and Palestinians may seem difficult to achieve with the new Israeli government. B’shalom, Rabbi Art Donsky ADDITIONAL SHIVA INFORMATION FOR PAUL HYMAN This is follow-up information to the announcement you received yesterday. Bobbi Harley says she will have an additional night of Shivah this Sunday, @ 8:00PM at her home in Franklin Park. Andi Turkheimer is coordinating the arrangements. 412-367-7864 TEACHER APPRECIATION DINNER & FIRST FRIDAY This Friday, May 1st, is First Friday & Teacher Appreciation Shabbat Dinner! Your teachers and volunteers will be among the staff members being honored at Shabbat Services. Please come and bring your family to help us say “THANK YOU!” to your teachers for a job well done!!  A-M please bring a side dish for 10. N-Z bring a dessert for 10.  People have been forgetting the dishes. PLEASE BE SURE TO EMAIL YOUR RSVP to efrank@templeohavshalom.org or call so we have an accurate count, even if you have paid for the year.  Thank you CEMETERY MARKETING ( I am repeating this because after running it a few weeks ago, Danielle was in a car accident and could not work. Then Pesach came, so this marketing will begin next week again—Elliot) Many members may not know this, but there is a section of Allegheny County Memorial Park that is designated the Jewish Section for Temple Ohav Shalom. This was done in the late 1980’s. The cemetery has changed management a few times since then and we recently met with the current management to discuss landscaping etc. Though a relatively young congregation, we have now had families which have had all the life cycle events at our temple (births, naming, b’nai mitzvah’s, marriage and burials).  The Temple Ohav Shalom Cemetery Gardens has approximately 432 sites available for us. Part of our agreement was to allow solicitation for grave sales by providing membership information to the cemetery sales person. Our representative is Danielle Matascik (412.366.8296). She will begin a marketing effort shortly. Please contact Elliot if you have any questions or concerns. MEMBERSHIP LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES The Rabbi is offering a series of classes called TOS 201 – What do 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 Laura Flieder at flieder@juno.com or 724-449-2779. PITTSBURGH RACE FOR THE CURE We now have a team of 10 people who, together, have raised over $1300 for this cause!! Join fellow TOS members 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 will help provide the necessary funding 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) 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, May 1st 6:00PM First Friday Dinner Friday, May 1st 7:00PM First Friday Services –Teacher Appreciation Shabbat & Oneg Friday, May 1st Talent Show right after services Friday, May 8th 11:30Am Pre-School Mother’s Tea Tuesday, May 12th 7:00PM What Do Jews Believe (about God?) TOS 201 Friday, May 15th 7:30PM Shabbat honoring Tifani Katof Guest Rabbi: Rabbi Mark Mahler Tuesday, May 19th 7:00PM What Do Jews Believe (about the After Life?) TOS 201 Friday May 15th 6:15 Tot Shabbat Thursday, May 21st Last Day of Pre-School! Tuesday, May 26th 7:00PM What Do Jews Believe (about being a ‘Good’ Jew?) TOS 201 Friday, July 3rd All American Pre-Shabbat Barbeque Friday, August 28th Shabbat In The Park SCHEDULE OF WORSHIP SERVICES FOR MAY Parashat Achrei Mot-Kedoshim Friday, May 1 7 lyar, 5769 6:00 pm Dinner for All 7:00 pm First Friday Kabbalat Shabbat Rabbi Donsky & Nikki Avershal Saturday, May 2 8 lyar, 5769 10:00 am Shabbat Morning Service Bat Mitzvah of Hannah Fassler Rabbi Donsky & Nikki Avershal Parashat Emor Friday, May 8 14 lyar, 5769 7:30 pm Kabbalat Shabbat Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof Saturday, May 9 15 lyar, 5769 10:00 am Shabbat Morning Service Bar Mitzvah of Jason Weis Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof Parashat Behar – Behukotai Friday, May 15 21 lyar, 5769 6:15 pm Tot Shabbat 7:30 pm Kabbalat Shabbat Rabbi Mark Mahler – Honoring Tifani Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof Saturday, May 16 – 22 lyar, 5769 10:00 am Shabbat Morning Service Bat Mitzvah of Rena Ferrara Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof Parashat Bamidbar Friday, May 22 – 28 lyar, 5769 7:30 pm Kabbalat Shabbat Rabbi Donsky & Bobbie Harley Saturday, May 23 – 29 lyar, 5769 10:00 am Shabbat Morning Service Bat Mitzvah of Becky Lebovitz Rabbi Donsky & Shara Taylor Shavuot Friday, May 29 – 6 Sivan, 5769 7:30 pm Kabbalat Torah 10th Grade Graduation Rabbi Donsky & Shara Taylor Saturday, May 30 – 7 Sivan, 5769 10:00 am Shabbat Morning Service Bar Mitzvah of Andres Hoberman Rabbi Donsky & Bill Lowenberger Happy May Birthdays 1 Jacob Vries 2 Michael Feldman 3 Alex Levine 4 Noah Frank Jeremy West 5 Rena Ferrara 8 Alexander Auron Jared Orons 10 Lauren Berlin Benjamin Maenza Casey Mann 11 Jenna Marinstein 12 Elana Fishbaine 15 Leah Popkin 16 Brian Boehmke 19 Rachael Harrison 20 Matthew Kramer 21 Steven Schorr 24 Charney Burg MAY YAHZEITS May Their Memories Be For A Blessing May 1 / lyar 7 Adolph Markowitz Father of Daryl Jean Marks May 3 / lyar 9 David Newman Stepfather of Maury Locke May 7 / lyar 13 Irving Hurwitz Father of Cathy Filson May 8 / lyar 14 S. William Locke Father of Maury Locke May 12 / lyar 18 Katherine Barash Mother of Mark Barash Bernard Zvirman Father of Charles Zvirman May 13 / lyar 19 Lawrence Ginsburg Father of Michael Ginsburg May 15 / lyar 21 Shirley Strahl Mother of Shelley Piechowicz May 16 / lyar 22 Sandra Belloff Sister of Barbara Laine May 17 / lyar 23 Ida Burns Mother of Audrey Baker May 20 / lyar 26 Beth Hyatt-Golling Sister of Arlene Pauley William Levenson Father of Susan Goldman May 23 / lyar 29 Meyer Goddy Spouse of Frances Goddy Father of Joanne Pampena May 25 / Sivan 2 Ralph Brodsky Father of Allan Brodsky Mildred Pankey Mother of Eileen Burke May 27 / Sivan 4 Maurice Rosenthal Husband of Ann Rosenthal Father of Elaine Cohen Norman Zakowitz Father of Hilary Daninhirsch May 28 / Sivan 5 Josef Lifson Father of Melvyn Lifson May 29 /Sivan 6 Marian Weiner Mother of Nancy Garber eWeekly 2009-04-29T19:43:00-05:00