the dove tale...there was no status in living in the same neighborhood in which you grew up. status...
TRANSCRIPT
In this issue:
V O L U M E 3 2 I S S U E 1 0
The Dove Tale S I V A N - T A M U Z 5 7 7 5 J U N E 2 0 1 5
Rabbi’s Study 2
From the
President
3
Member Focus
Paula Mann
4-5
Hebrew School 6
Early Learning
Center
8-10
B’nai Mitzvah 12–13
Calendar 14
Good and
Welfare
14
Shalom Awards 15
Inclusion
B’Kavod
16-17
Donations 20-21
Sisterhood 22-23
Men’s Club 24-25
Yom Hasoah
Candle Project
26
Annual Meeting
Pictures
27
Page 2
The Rabbi’s Study
Page 15
Annual Meeting
Shalom Awards
Ohev Shalom celebrates the uniqueness of each individual and welcomes diversity within our sacred community.
Bucks County Ranks as
Fourth Best County in America ...
We should spread the word to our kids
and just spread the word in general.
Pages 8 - 10
Early Learning Center
Year in Review
Page 27
Annual Meeting
18 and 36+ year
members
P A G E 2
Here is a thumb nail sketch of American Jewish
history. Plus or minus a hundred years ago, Jews
settled in small towns and cities across the
Midwest and South. These Jews were often
merchants and retailers. These far flung areas
were ripe for their arrival. Over a generation or
two, their children, gaining a college education,
were looking for places of new opportunity.
There was little reason for them to stay. These
communities were left to dwindle and too often to
die. Synagogues became museums, churches or
were demolished. They are now part of American
Jewish history.
Other Jews settled in the cities. The first area of
Jewish settlement was most often in a modest
area of town. As they acclimated to life in
American and started doing somewhat better,
they started moving on up. But they never stayed
too long in one place. Their children too went to
college, became professionals, succeeded in
business. There was no status in living in the same
neighborhood in which you grew up. Status was
always a bigger home in a better neighborhood
and so our ever wandering Jews remained on the
move.
With the rise of suburbia, Jews started moving
even farther out. In the mid seventies the Jewish
population began to grow and boom in our part of
Bucks County. There had been an earlier area of
Jewish settlement in Levittown but after a
generation or so, that too became a stepping
stone.
So our kids who grew up in Richboro, Holland,
Newtown, Yardley, Southampton, Central Bucks,
Langhorne, where are they to go to experience
the next level of success? For many, their first
stop is the city. That’s what happens when you
raise your children in suburbia. They want to live
in the city. Many head for Manhattan or the
surrounding bedroom communities that are an
easy commute into the city. Many find their way
to Philly. Some are settling in the same areas we
left fifty and more years ago like South Philadelphia
now gentrifying. Some are finding happiness in
areas that never housed much of a Jewish
community like Northern Liberties and also
gentrifying. The Big Question remains how long
will our kids remain in the city and where will they
go next? Will their present homes or apartments
support a growing family? Will Philadelphia get its
educational act together so that a quality public
school education is possible as it was for my
generation? Unless there is a dramatic change,
suburbs are still very attractive.
In a recent study conducted by researchers at
Harvard University, the top ten counties in the
country for upward mobility were assembled.
There are hundreds and thousand of counties all
throughout the United States. Bucks County
Pennsylvania ranked number four (4) in the country.
Bucks County PA must be an awfully great place to
live. I’ve always liked it here.
An online piece in the Examiner.com reported the
following:
Top five counties in America: Bucks County, Pa.
May 4, 20151:33 PM MST
Bucks County is the number four county in America in
terms of upward mobility.
A new study from Harvard economists has pinpointed
the best and worst counties in the country, based on
future earning potential. Bucks County is number 4.
Founded in the early days of America, Bucks County,
Pennsylvania is rich in history. Even if the Revolutionary
War isn't your thing, Bucks County will impress with its
breath-taking scenery and charming covered bridges.
Once based on steel work, Bucks County has adapted to
the changing times and is currently seeing rapid growth
in the biotech industries. You can't beat Bucks County
for culture, either, as it's situated about halfway between
New York and Philadelphia.
If not the perfect place, we are the fourth best
place. And the one thing not mentioned in the
study is that Bucks County is home to Ohev Shalom
of Bucks County. Let’s invite our kids to “come
home.” Some children see it as a concession or
compromise to live in the same area as their parents
or where they grew up. Maybe, but a study by
Harvard no less should give them all the reason they
could need.
We have a growing population of the third
generation of our families growing up in our
synagogue. That means more and more children in
our schools whose parents were Bar and Bat
Mitzvah on our Bimah. They seem plenty happy to
me.
We should spread the word to our kids and just
spread the word in general. Bucks County is a great
place for Jewish settlement and when that place is in
striking distance to Ohev Shalom, it is perfect. In
my last article, I mentioned that this is a great time
(Continued on page 26)
Rabbi Eliott Perlstein
The Rabbi’s Study Bucks County Ranks as
Fourth Best County in America
Follow me on Twitter
@EliottPerlstein
Let’s invite our kids
to “come home.”
P A G E 3
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At the Annual Meeting of the congregation on May
13, I presented the financial state of the
synagogue. As we turn into a new fiscal year, I
would like to use this space to reiterate my
remarks so that the entire congregation is aware
of our financial status, our victories and our
challenges.
Our short term financial outlook from a financial
statement perspective is pretty good. Our net
income will be positive for this year and our
projection is that it will be significantly positive
next year. It is critical that we stay on this course
since positive net income is a condition of our
mortgage.
Net Income
Year Ending June 30, 2011 $40,000
2012 $115,000
2013 ($160,000)
2014 ($22,000)
2015 (as of 3/31/15) $115,000
2016 (Budget) $100,000
As you can see from the numbers, we have been
able to crawl out of the two deficit years that
were forced upon us by our significant account
receivable write-offs. However, please note that the
positive accounting results do not necessarily
translate into real results because congregants’ bills
are not always paid on time. We have more than
$100,000 of accounts receivable from this year
alone, so the $115,000 paper surplus is, in reality,
offset by to almost zero by the accounts receivable.
Surely most of this money will come in eventually,
but late payers put a lot of stress on our finances
and our outside vendors. That said, we are doing
much better than in years past.
Our budget for the 2015-2016 fiscal year is a
combination of conservatism and optimism. It
serves primarily, in my view, as a realistic set of
goals for the Board and the congregation. The key
goals of the budget are (1) 20 new family members;
(2) $42,500 of fundraising from events such as the
summer flea market and Comedy Night V; (3) the
sale of 22 bricks for our beautiful entry patio; (4)
annual appeal of $185,000; (5) break-even Early
Learning Center; and (6) break-even Hebrew and
(Continued on page 18)
Barry L. Klein
President
From The President Financial State
of the Synagogue
Paula Mann and her husband, Farrel, are long-standing congregants of Ohev Shalom of Bucks
County. Paula has served on Ohev Shalom’s Board of Directors as Membership and Publicity
Chairs. She also taught for many years in Ohev Shalom’s Preschool as well as the Religious
School. Paula is also very active in Newtown Hadassah and serves on the Board of Hadassah of
Greater Philadelphia as co-Vice President of Leadership. She currently is teaching in
Bordentown, NJ as a Middle School Special Education/ Reading Specialist Language Arts teacher.
Part of the curriculum in NJ is the teaching of the Holocaust and Genocide Education.
Recently, Paula was nominated and was selected to receive the Jack Zaifman Humanitarian
award for all of the things that she has done for Holocaust education, and all that she will
continue to do as a dedicated educator. As stated by a peer, “I first met Mrs. Mann during the
summer of 2013 when we participated in the “Infamous Sites of the Holocaust” summer
institute offered by the NJ Commission on Holocaust Education. During the trip she
consistently took photos, kept a journal, and explained that what she learned and felt, needed to
be brought back to the classroom.” The 15 day Seminar included a visit to Eastern/Central
Europe, specifically to the countries of Germany, the Czech Republic, Poland, and the
Netherlands. Many sites were visited including museums, ancient cemeteries, and entering
seven concentration camps. Shortly after her trip, Paula presented the “Visit to the Infamous
Sites of the Holocaust” photos and information to two Hadassah Groups. She also gave the presentation to over 100 community members
of Ohev Shalom of Bucks County, within two weeks of her return. Paula spoke to executive members of the NJ Education Association,
NJEA, in September 2013 and advocated for the support of the “Infamous Sites of the Holocaust” trip for future participants.
Paula has taught Holocaust Education for over fifteen years in the public middle school classroom. She created an Animoto movie of her
visit to Majdanek Concentration/Death camp for students, entitled This Is Not a Home which can be found on YouTube. Paula created a 129
slide Power Point Presentation of the “Visit to the Infamous Sites of the Holocaust” and used it in the classroom and also shared it with
other teachers and community members. The presentation can be found on the web site of the NJ Commission on Holocaust Education.
Paula has also brought in a Holocaust Survivor to Bordentown Regional Middle School. In November 2014, she was one of three
presenters at the NJEA Teacher's Convention sharing “Traveling Teachers: Holocaust Education in the Classroom.” Paula worked with 2
other colleagues for ten months as a team member creating the NJEA presentation and creating the lesson plans for the website
http://travelteaching.wikispaces.com. This website is linked to the NJ Commission on Holocaust Education’s website. Paula created and
submitted twenty lessons for the presentation. As a NJ Teacher, she helped to lobby in Harrisburg, PA for the Holocaust/Genocide/Human
Rights Bill in PA, which did pass. As a NJ Teacher of the Holocaust, Paula collaborated with a committee of the Holocaust Awareness
Museum and Education Center in Philadelphia, PA to discuss teaching Holocaust Education in the state of PA due to the new Bill.
Paula also attended a Summit on Holocaust Education in 2014, held at Raritan Valley Community College in NJ. The Summit was led by
educators from the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the NJ Commission on Holocaust Education. She was trained in the
“Echoes and Reflections” Holocaust Education Program to further curriculum planning and delivery in her Middle School classroom. Paula
has also served on a Community-wide Multi-cultural Task Force as well as on an anti-Bullying committee in her School District.
Paula is often asked, “How do your Middle School students respond to the teaching of the Holocaust.” Her response, “Children have a
keen sense of right and wrong. They learn and understand quickly, the manipulative minds of wrong leadership. They begin to understand
how far hatred can go, if left unchecked. To teach the Holocaust provides me the opportunity to help my students develop a deeper sense
of empathy toward others, for all humanity. My students see the multiple lessons learned from the Holocaust. Through teaching them
about the Holocaust they begin to see they have a responsibility toward each other, toward mankind. They begin to feel empowered by
their education. I believe there are 3 pillars involved with the Philosophy of Educating others about the Holocaust: 1.) Remembrance
2.) Awareness (understanding) 3.) Responsibility. What did you do today; did you help others; it is your duty to change the world. My students
“get this” after learning about the Holocaust. They become advocates toward a better world. They know that it will take all of us to
prevent another genocide from happening, it is important for every one of us to do our part to make sure the victims of genocide are never
forgotten.”
Paula feels “It is my deepest honor and privilege to receive the Jack Zaigman Humanitarian Award.”
Member Focus Paula Mann
P A G E 4
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Nadine Simantov Top Agent 2014
Co-Owner/Realtor
Cell:215-858-2068 Office:215-757-6100 x 125
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Top Selling Real Estate Company
in Bucks County the past 5 years
P A G E 5
About the Jack Zaifman Humanitarian Award
This award is presented to one (1) or two (2) K-12 private, public or parochial educator in either Burlington, Somerset or Mercer County
that has demonstrated for at least three (3) years excellent instruction in the field of Holocaust/genocide and/or prejudice reduction
education and has achieved an outstanding accomplishment with students, staff and/or community in that field.
Jack Zaifman, a Holocaust survivor who withstood the horrors of the Nazi death camps including Auschwitz and Dachau, has through his life
demonstrated humanness and compassion. For the past 35 years, he has visited numerous schools and spoken to thousands of students and
told them the extraordinary story of how his skill as a tailor and his faith and courage helped him to survive one of the mankind’s darkest
times, while at the same time teaching the lessons of hope, tolerance and love.
The Zaifman family is extremely proud of Jack’s willingness to eloquently share his personal and painful memories in the hopes that young
people can come to understand that they have the power within themselves to make a difference. In an effort to do what they can to keep
the message alive, as well as honor the legacy of Jack’s commitment to teaching tolerance, this award was created so the story that he was a
witness to will continue to be heard.
With the assistance of Dr. Paul Winkler, the Executive Director of the NJ Commission on Holocaust Education, the Jack Zaifman
Humanitarian Award was established. This award is given annually to a New Jersey educator(s) that is nominated by their peers, who has
demonstrated their continued dedication to the teaching of the Holocaust and lessons of tolerance. This award, provided by Jack Zaifman’s
family, includes a monetary award to be used to continue and enhance the educator’s own classroom teaching of Holocaust/ genocide and a
classroom set of Jack’s remarkable book, co-authored by Deanna Sass, “Tailor Made for Life…The Story of Survival During the Nazi Holocaust".
Elie Weisel said ”Why write memories? Why share experiences? For the dead, it is too late.
We do all that because it is not too late for our children … for ALL children. It is never too late.”
It is the fervent hope of the Zaifman family that in some small way this award can help make a difference and students will learn that they
have the power to stop intolerance and not stand idly by.
Joanne Babbitt
Ruvo Travel We Move People!
65 Poplar Drive Phone: 215-962-3688
Richboro, PA 18954 215-962-1858
P A G E 6
The goal of the Hebrew School is to make Jewish
learning engaging and interactive. We want
students to build Jewish connections, develop a
strong Jewish identity and form lifelong Jewish
relationships. Hebrew School is not a transaction.
It is meaningful and important and helps shape our
children into strong, proud Jewish adults.
This past year, the Hebrew School continued its
uphill momentum and efforts by streamlining
existing programming, introducing new learning
opportunities for students and restructuring a
substantial portion of the Hebrew School
curriculum. Marnie Dratch and the Education
Committee created a curriculum document to
provide focus and structure, enabling teachers to
teach all learners while keeping students engaged.
How do we keep our students engaged?
Ensure that we have a solid programming agenda
and make modifications to incorporate a stronger
focus on community. A stronger community
emphasis helps to reinforce student’s classroom
learning to make all students successful. School-
wide holiday celebrations took the place of
individual classroom observances. Group activities
such as extreme dreidle and a school-wide Seder
allowed older students to interact with younger
ones and serve as good Jewish role models.
Buddy classes participated in team building
activities such as Hamantoshen baking. School-
wide T’fillah gave spirituality new meaning and
made praying together natural and organic.
Students explored empathy and gained completely
new insight during Jewish Disabilities Awareness
month as they participated in disability simulation
activities.
New programs to complement existing ones were
established to help further engage and involve
students. During Jewish Disabilities Awareness
Month representatives from Israel’s Guide Dogs
for the Blind spoke with our students and
introduced them to a miraculous Israeli woman
and her guide dog.
Our Ohev community is also filled with amazing
and wonderful members who have their own
history and stories. This year we tapped into our
very own congregation for resources and
programming. Our 4th grade Bet class will tell you
that they by far had the best intergenerational
learning activity this year. Congregant Agnes
Lebovic baked delicious, mouth-watering babka with
the students while sharing heartwarming memories
from her childhood. To honor Yom Ha’Atzmaut and
Yom Hazikaron, Tzipora Rolnick, Safta to one of our
Hei students, captivated the students as she told
them her personal story of being a young girl in
1948 and witnessing the creation of our beloved
State of Israel. Holocaust survivor Toby Mack
(grandmother to one of our Aleph students) shared
her story of growing up in a displaced persons camp
with our Gimel (5th gd) and Hei (7th gd) students.
The teachers also benefited from the knowledge and
experience of our Ohev congregants. A few of our
special Ohev members, who are educators,
facilitated the yearly teacher in-service professional
development-learning day. This half-day workshop
addressed the specific needs of the Hebrew School
faculty and how we can best serve our precious
students. Lindsay Miller and Suzanne Gold (Special
Needs Coordinator) gave teachers guidance and
tools to help reach all learners. Marnie Dratch
worked with teachers on building solid and
meaningful lesson plans. I gave teachers technology
resources to bolster what they do in the classroom.
We are also super excited about Tichon at Ohev, the
new Hebrew High School Program at Ohev. This
program is different than programs of the past.
Teen learning is important. We must continue to
build and foster a strong Jewish identity for them.
Tichon at Ohev curriculum will be concentrated and
experiential, giving teens a chance to choose how
they wish to pursue their learning.
Many thanks to Joanne Adar for her unwavering
guidance, spirit and support these past few years; to
Marnie Dratch for whole-heartedly embracing the
school and helping to make a difference; and to the
Education Committee for their work in making the
Hebrew School a wonderful environment for Jewish
learning. I am looking forward to next year and
making the learning even more engaging and the
programming even more interactive. Exciting times
are ahead for the Ohev Shalom Hebrew School and
Tichon at Ohev so stay tuned and stay connected.
Barbara Glickman
Principal
Hebrew School Looking back …
and looking ahead
Like us on Facebook
and
follow us on Twitter!
For more information
about Tichon at
Ohev, please contact
Hebrew School/
Hebrew High
Principal Barbara
Glickman at
215-322-9583 or
TICHON at OHEV - Exclusively for students entering 8th, 9th and 10th grade beginning September 2015
Tichon at Ohev for 8th and 9th graders meets Wednesday evenings from 6:30-8:30, and 10th grade/Confirmation meets 5:30-7:15, with
dinner included for all. Geared exclusively towards teens, the program provides innovative curriculum and experiential learning combined
with a strong focus on community, Israel, forming personal connections and strengthening Jewish identity. The schedule includes two
classes with dinner and peer-led minyan between classes. Featured guest speakers are planned to engage students and reinforce learning.
P A G E 7
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WE CAN CREATE THE MOOD FOR YOUR
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Aleph Class Consecration
P A G E 8
Jacquelyn Siegel
Director of the
Early Learning Center
It has been a whirlwind year in the Early Learning
Center. We have instituted many new traditions
such as our school-wide celebrations for
Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, and Purim during which
all of the age groups first performed for their
families, and then came together for a shared meal
or nosh. We also had our first ever school-wide
Seder with all age groups in attendance. After
learning all about Kashrut, our kindergarteners
were charged with doing the shopping for both
our Thanksgiving Feast and Pesach Seder. The
good people at Richboro Shop ‘n Bag welcomed
us and guided the shopping excursion.
Our themed Shabbat Mishpacha programs geared
toward our young families were a big hit this year
and very well attended as always. The ice cream
sundae oneg is always a favorite. Our ELC families
love this opportunity to bring their children to an
abbreviated Friday evening service and commune
with members of the Ohev congregation.
I am happy to report that the annual book fair
brought in significant funds to benefit the Early
Learning Center. The week-long event featuring a
pajama party and grandparents’ day is always much
anticipated. We received multiple bonus gifts as a
result of book sales. Our families can always be
counted on to support this venture in a big way,
and for that I am ever grateful.
None of these wonderful happenings would be
possible if it were not for our remarkably hard-
working PTO. The individuals who spearhead
events, volunteer repeatedly for all tasks, big and
small, and are always available to help and support
the ELC deserve a huge hug and gigantic “thank
you.” I would mention everyone by name, but the
list would be endless. One name in particular
must be mentioned however, and that is Rachel
Saks. As the VP who oversees the ELC, she has
worked tirelessly and sacrificed much to support
me in all endeavors. I will always be eternally
grateful for her help.
Although our special events like our Mothers’ day
breakfast “Donuts with Dudes,” and Lag B’Omer
picnic bring us unforgettable joy, it is what goes on
in the classrooms on a daily basis under the
guidance of our talented teaching staff that creates
a lifetime of memories for parents and children.
The creativity exhibited by the children during our
recent “Art Showcase” is a prime example of what
the children are learning and experiencing in our
dynamic program. The children integrated
knowledge from the realms of science, language
arts, math and social studies and produced
magnificent, imaginative representations of these
concepts from their mind’s eye. We continue to
graduate independent, critical thinkers who are
responsible citizens of the world, with well-
established Jewish identities.
I couldn’t be more proud of our students and their
teachers. Which is why I always look forward to
our annual “Teacher Appreciation Shabbat” during
which I have the opportunity to tell the teachers
how very valued they are, and how important their
contributions to the field of Early Childhood
Education are. I believe that we have the best
program operating in the area and am on a mission
to get the news out there.
So far, our community outreach seems to be
working as we have had many inquiries and
enrollments from families outside the Ohev
community. We have sponsored several story times
at local book stores, invited the community to family
fun days, and are offering enrollment incentives to
grow the ELC. Our young families are not only the
future of the Early Learning Center, but of the
Hebrew School and congregation as well. So please
help spread the word and help us to continue to
grow and prosper.
I wish everyone a relaxing summer.
L’Shalom
Jacky
Early Learning Center Looking back …
and looking ahead
P A G E 9
www.diamondridgecamps.com
Photos courtesy of Mandi Freedman
Art Show
P A G E 1 0
Art Show
P A G E 1 1
Member of
United Synagogue
of Conservative
Judaism
215-322-9819 [email protected]
215-322-9595, ext 54 [email protected]
215-322-9597 [email protected]
215-322-9583, ext 21 [email protected]
Dr. Eliott N. Perlstein, Rabbi
Paul Frimark, Cantor Emeritus
Barbara Glickman, Hebrew School Principal
Jacquelyn Siegel, Director of Early Learning Center
Ohev Shalom
of Bucks County
215-322-9595
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Barry L. Klein, President [email protected]
Rachel Saks, First Vice President
Dana Podob, Second Vice President
Lindsay Miller, Third Vice President
Scott Edelman, Treasurer
Chad Schieken, Finance Chairperson
Susan Reiter, Recording Secretary
Judie Weiss, Corresponding Secretary
Joshua Laff, Legal Counsel
David Weiss, Building Chairperson
Eli Shapiro, Adult Education Chairperson
Rachel Betesh, Early Learning Center Chair
Marnie Dratch, Education Chairperson
Marilyn Gelb, Programs Chairperson
Lindsey Heller, Membership Chairperson
Ilona Fligelman, Hebrew School PTO Chair
Alan Shandler, Social Action Chairperson
Idelle Wood, Ritual Chairperson
Deb Levin, Youth Chairperson
Lisa Yoskowitz, Social Media Chair
Jared Pashko, Publicity
Sheila Tannenbaum, Hazak President
Mark Podob, Men’s Club President
Linda Barankin, Sisterhood Co-President
Hedy Hoffman, Sisterhood Co-President
Soan Dubrow, Director At Large
Ron Stark, Director At Large
Alice Heller, Director At Large
Gary Freedman, Dove Tale Editor
Hal Barrow, Immediate Past President
Past Presidents: Arlene Rosenbaum,
Natalie H. Brooks, Laurie Segal,
Barbara Kind Berman, Bruce M. Shapiro,
David Friedman, Mark Shapiro,
Mark R. Pachman, Mitch Ziegler,
Bruce Baron, Fredi Lisgar
Synagogue Office Staff
Rachel Blum
Elizabeth Gallagher
Ruth Kresge
Hilary Leboff
Paula Segal
Ellie Zmuida
Confirmation Class
P A G E 1 2
Rachel Spurr Saturday, June 6th Hi, my name is Rachel Spurr and my Bat Mitzvah will be on June 6, 2015. I am 12 years old and
in seventh grade at Richboro Middle School. I love all my subjects in school because the
teachers are so nice and they know how to make learning more fun. I have made a lot of new
friends in middle school. It has been an amazing year so far and I can’t wait until eighth grade.
In my free time I enjoy drawing, writing and playing piano. I love doing those things because
they are relaxing to me and let me go into my own little world. I also love talking to my friends
who are amazing, funny and there when you need them most.
I have been going to Ohev since I was two years old. Everyone there does an amazing job at
giving me a Jewish education. I love learning the history of Judaism and also learning new
prayers. I can’t wait for next year when I start Hebrew high. For my mitzvah project, I
volunteered for Cook for a Friend. I would like to thank Rabbi Perlstein, Cantor Frimark, all
my teachers, my mom, my dad and my brothers, Zach, Ben and Harrison, for making my Bat
Mitzvah possible. Thank you so much.
Grant Kremsky Saturday, June 13th My name is Grant Kremsky and my Bar Mitzvah is on June 13, 2015. This day will be very
special not only because it is my Bar Mitzvah but it is also my 13th birthday.
I am a 7th grade student at Richboro Middle School. Education is very important to me and I
am an avid reader. I like hanging out with friends and playing video games. Summer is my
favorite time of year because I go to camp. When I was younger, I went to Southampton Day
Camp but now I go to Quest. I also love to travel often with my family.
My Bar Mitzvah project is quite unique. I am working with the Curing Retinal Blindness
Foundation. This cause is very close to home because it effects two kids in my neighborhood.
Michael and Mitchell Smedley were born with a rare genetic disease called Leber's Congenital
Amaurosis. They are rapidly losing what little sight they have left (both are legally blind). I am
helping to convert books into Braille for the new Braille section at the Northampton Public
Library. I have assisted with and played Goalball, a game for vision impaired kids. Most exciting
of all, I am helping to launch a viral campaign to raise awareness. We're trying very hard to get
them on The Ellen Degeneres show!
I would like to thank everyone at Ohev Shalom who has helped me throughout this journey.
Special thanks to Rabbi Perlstein, Cantor Paul, Liz Nover and Michelle Taylor. Mazel Tov to
Sidney who shares this special day with me. I can't wait to celebrate with family and friends.
Sidney Sadel Saturday, June 13th My name is Sid Sadel. I am in 7th grade at Holland Middle School. I enjoy my sports. I like to
play football, basketball, baseball and soccer. In school I run track. Participating in 5k runs and
long distance races is really enjoyable. My family and I look forward to travelling somewhere
new each year. We’ve driven from Maine to Key West and have also toured the West Coast.
At school, social studies is my favorite subject.
For my Bar Mitzvah project I volunteered for Cook for a Friend. Then I interviewed my
grandparents and learned about the injustice of the Holocaust. After the Holocaust my
grandfather came to Palestine and served in the Palmach, the fighting force of the Haganah. In
1948 he fought to help establish the land of Israel. Two weeks after my Bar Mitzvah I am going
to Israel for the first time. I will be visiting the Palmach museum bringing some pictures of my
grandfather’s brigade and battalion. This trip is going to be very special to me and my family.
My Bar Mitzvah is on June 13, 2015. I can’t wait to celebrate. Good luck Grant, whose Bar
Mitzvah is on the same day. I would like to thank my family, my teachers, the Rabbi and the
Cantor - everyone helped me prepare for this big day.
P A G E 1 3
B’nai Mitzvah
Jaymi Torjman Saturday, June 6th Hi! My name is Jaymi Jaqueline Torjman and I will become a Bat Mitzvah on June 6, 2015. My
mom’s Bat Mitzvah was also on June 6th so I am really glad to share that date with her.
I am in 7th grade at Klinger Middle School. I am an A student and very proud of that.
Some of the things I like to do at school are perform in the school musicals. This year we did
Alice in Wonderland Jr. and I played a singing flower. I am also in Concert Choir and Chorus
at school. I love to sing and dance. I am also on the Field Hockey team at school.
In my free time I enjoy hanging out with my friends, going on social media, and going down the
shore. My family and I have a house in Margate and I love to go down the shore. We spend a
lot of our summer there. Two of my aunts and uncles are at the shore too and it is great to
see them and spend fun times with all my cousins.
I also go to Dolphin Swim Club camp through Lower Southampton Township. I have been
going to this camp since I was 8 years old. Another passion of mine is making music videos and
vlogging, which means video blogging.
For my Bat Mitzvah project, I have been volunteering at Royce’s Rescue, which is a cat and
kitten rescue in Richboro. I feed the cats, clean their areas and play with them. I love cats so
this is a great place for me to be. It feels really good to help these cats hopefully find new
homes and until they do play with them and help take care of them.
I would like to thank Cantor Frimark and Rabbi Perlstein for helping me prepare for my Bat
Mitzvah. I would also like to thank my parents for always supporting me in all that I do and for
standing by my side and being great parents. I am really excited for my Bat Mitzvah and can’t
wait to celebrate with all my family and friends.
Aaron Schurman Saturday, June 20th Hi! My name is Aaron Schurman and I am in 7th grade going to Solebury School in New Hope
PA. I'm going to have my Bar Mitzvah on Saturday June 20. I enjoy playing travel soccer as a
goalie and helping to coach my sister's team on Fridays. I enjoy playing all sorts of games
physical and mental. For instance I love playing XBox and all sorts of gym games. I also play
Dungeons and Dragons with my dad and his friends and with my friends I play Magic the
Gathering. I have a trampoline in my backyard that provides all sorts of summer fun for me,
my sister, and neighborhood friends. During the summer you can find me at Ramah Poconos
sleep away camp, hanging out with my cousins at their beach house, and on fun summer
vacations. This year we are going to Israel and completing the second half of my Bar Mitzvah
project with Standing Together.
Standing Together is a non-profit organization that started by sending pizzas to soldiers
guarding the checkpoints. Standing Together then began to cater to the different needs of
soldiers, sending drinks, food, clothes, undergarments, and more to our soldiers in the field.
This is important to me because I get to have a connection to Israel and making the lives of the
people that protect my home away from home just that much better gives me a great feeling
inside.
I would like to thank Rabbi Perlstein for helping me with my Dvar Torah and Cantor Frimark
for making learning Torah so much easier. I would also like to thank my Hebrew school
teachers for motivating me to do a great job. I would also like to really thank Liz Nover for
helping with my whole Bar Mitzvah. And lastly I would like to thank my family for nagging and
motivating me through this whole endeavor.
P A G E 1 4
JUNE 2015 Monday June 1st 14th of Sivan Tuesday June 2nd 15th of Sivan 12 pm Sisterhood Mah Jongg 7 pm Minyan Wednesday June 3rd 16th of Sivan 7 pm Minyan Thursday June 4th 17th of Sivan 7 am Minyan 1 pm Sisterhood Canasta 7 pm Minyan 7 pm Sisterhood Book Club Friday June 5th 18th of Sivan 6 pm Kabbalat Shabbat - Volunteer Shabbat 8:08 pm Candle Lighting Saturday June 6th 19th of Sivan 9:30 am Services - Jaymi Torjman Bat Mitzvah - Rachel Spurr Bat Mitzvah 9:16 pm Havdalah Sunday June 7th 20th of Sivan 8:45 am Minyan 5:30 pm Men’s Club Dinner and Poker Monday June 8th 21st of Sivan Tuesday June 9th 22nd of Sivan 12 pm Sisterhood Mah Jongg 7 pm Minyan 7:15 pm Cantor’s Israel Trip Meeting Wednesday June 10th 23rd of Sivan 11 am ELC PTO Carnival 7 pm Minyan 7:15 pm Sisterhood Board Meeting Thursday June 11th 24th of Sivan 7 am Minyan 1 pm Sisterhood Canasta 6 pm Sisterhood Closing Dinner 7 pm Minyan
Friday June 12th 25th of Sivan ELC Graduation / Last Day of School 6 pm Kabbalat Shabbat - Honors Shabbat 8:11 pm Candle Lighting Saturday June 13th 26th of Sivan 9:30 am Services - Grant Kremsky Bar Mitzvah - Sidney Sadel Bar Mitzvah 9:20 pm Havdalah Sunday June 14th 27th of Sivan Flag Day 8:45 am Minyan Monday June 15th 28th of Sivan ELC Closed Day Care and Infant Center Open Tuesday June 16th 29th of Sivan 12 pm Sisterhood Mah Jongg 7 pm Minyan Wednesday June 17th 30th of Sivan Rosh Hodesh Tamuz 5 pm Cook for a Friend 7 pm Minyan 7:30 pm Board of Directors Meeting Thursday June 18th 1st of Tamuz Rosh Hodesh Tamuz 7 am Minyan 1 pm Sisterhood Canasta 3 - 8 pm Blood Drive 7 pm Minyan Friday June 19th 2nd of Tamuz ELC Day Care Begins 6 pm Kabbalat Shabbat 8:14 pm Candle Lighting Saturday June 20th 3rd of Tamuz 9:30 am Services - Aaron Schurman Bar Mitzvah 9:22 pm Havdalah
Sunday June 21st 4th of Tamuz Father’s Day 8:45 am Minyan Monday June 22nd 5th of Tamuz Tuesday June 23rd 6th of Tamuz 12 pm Sisterhood Mah Jongg 7 pm Minyan Wednesday June 24th 7th of Tamuz 7 pm Minyan Thursday June 25th 8th of Tamuz 7 am Minyan 1 pm Sisterhood Canasta 7 pm Minyan Friday June 26th 9th of Tamuz 6 pm Kabbalat Shabbat 8:15 Candle Lighting Saturday June 27th 10th of Tamuz 9:30 am Services - Adult Confirmation 9:23 pm Havdalah Sunday June 28th 11th of Tamuz 8:45 am Minyan Men’s Club goes to Dad’s Hat Distillery
in Bristol, PA Monday June 29th 12th of Tamuz Tuesday June 30th 13th of Tamuz 12 pm Sisterhood Mah Jongg 7 pm Minyan
Kol HaKavod to our April Torah/Haftarah readers: Natalie Brooks, Jeff Camson, Soni Feld, Marv Feld, Esther Fine,
Cantor Frimark, Mitch Gerson, Gail Goldstein, Bernie Grossman, Phyllis Halpern, Alan Katz, Sheldon Katz, Barry Klein, Josh Laff,
Alexa Lazar, Hannah Loffman, Neil Mittleman, Liz Nover, Mike Rabinowitz, Eric Rothstein, Brett Rubin, Rachel Saks, Mel Scharf,
Eileen Schein, Dana Segal, Iris Segal, Shep Smithline, Ken Sternberger, Idelle S. Wood, Lisa Yoskowitz, and Mike Zimet.
Kol HaKavod to our April Minyan leaders: Cantor Frimark, Jerry Gomberg, Bernie Grossman, Sam Heller, Saul Jacobs, Jahn Nolan,
Jeff Pevar, Mimi Pollack, and Mike Zimet.
We always have opportunities for readers and Minyan leaders. Please email Idelle S. Wood at [email protected].
Good and Welfare
P A G E 1 5
Mark Pachman’s acceptance speech on receiving the Shalom Award:
Ilene and I joined Ohev Shalom in the winter of 1977 when the synagogue was
less than one year old. Our sons were 1 and 5 years old. I am not a religious
person at all, but recognized the importance of a Jewish presence in our
community. We established many close friendships through the synagogue
including our 30-year plus Havarah.
Our family matured along with the synagogue. Scott went to our preschool, both
boys celebrated becoming a Bar Mitzvah followed by their confirmations, and
each stood under the chupah as Rabbi Perstein officiated at their weddings. Ilene
became an adult Bat Mitzvah, wrote and directed two original plays that were
performed here, and was honored when the Raoul Wallenberg US postage stamp
was issued. The Rabbi reconfirmed my in-laws’ wedding vows at their 50th
anniversary. An I, who in a million years never thought would become active in a
synagogue, went from an at-large member of the board of directors to vice
president and then from 1984-86 president. In 1987, our family and several
friends went to Israel with Rabbi Perlstein on the first and very rewarding
synagogue trip that I gladly organized.
Now the joy and fun continues as our two precious grandchildren have graduated from our Early Learning Center. Ethan attends our
Hebrew school program and Jessica just celebrated her Aleph class consecration. I can only hope that we are fortunate enough to celebrate
many more simchas and milestones here at Ohev.
Shalom Award Mark Pachman
Mike Wexler’s acceptance speech on receiving the Shalom Award:
Rabbi, thank you for the kind words. Mark, congratulations to you and your
family. Those who know me well, you know that this is an awkward situation for
me, as I prefer to be un-noticeably noticed. The reasons for my contributions to
Ohev are simple … I have a passion for this special place, I’m blessed to be able
to help, and I prefer to give than receive. Recognition is never a factor. So, it’s
very humbling to have been honored with this award. I wouldn’t be standing here
today without the help and support of so many wonderful people … I need to
thank many of you.
To Rabbi Perlstein, thank you for always having an open spot on the sofa in your
study to have enlightening and frank discussions. And thank you for the
friendship we’ve developed over the years.
To Arlene, Hal, and Barry … all wonderful presidents that I’ve been fortunate to
work with. Thank you for your leadership and never-ending dedication.
To Cantor Paul, the board of directors, and congregants who I’ve interacted with
… thank you for listening to my thoughts and ideas.
To my mom and dad, thank you for instilling values in me that have made me the
person that I am today.
To my amazing family Judy, Jeff, and Brooke, thank you for your never ending support and sacrifices you’ve made while I was consumed with
countless meetings and events.
I’m grateful to have worked with many of you on committees that are having a significant impact on the future of Ohev. It warms my heart
to know that we’ve morphed into a very different organization than we once were … and we’ll continue to do so. We’re fortunate to have
a beautiful synagogue, but what truly makes Ohev special are its congregants. My family and I have created life-long friends at Ohev, and for
that I am thankful. I’m grateful and proud to be able to call Ohev our home away from home. So far I’ve had a special and rewarding
journey at Ohev. I look forward to our exciting future, and continuing to help wherever I can. Thank you again for this honor.
Shalom Award Mike Wexler
P A G E 1 6
Inclusive Thoughts
The June Dove Tale is a time when we like to reflect on how our synagogue has become more inclusive during the year. It amazes us when
we look back on the year and reflect on each activity, event, service and community involvement, but it is truly even more incredible when
we look at the year as a whole. Here are the top eighteen reasons why the Inclusion B’Kavod Committee is appreciative of, extremely
proud of, and continuously amazed by our community and congregation, as we reflect upon 2104 -2015 and plan and prepare for 2015-2016.
1. The second year of our Live Stream High Holiday Services enabling those unable to physically attend services to participate meaningfully
and spiritually in their own way.
2. The third year of our monthly Celebrations! at Ohev Special Shabbat program with all of our previous families continuing to attend and
several new families joining in the fun.
3. The first Celebrations! at Ohev student beginning to attend our traditional Hebrew School program.
4. The beginning of our congregation’s involvement with Interfaith Philadelphia and the development of our own Keruv at Ohev
committee.
5. Lighting and yellow lines highlighting the steps leading to the main entrance making the steps less hazardous and more visible for all.
6. A slow speed sign and virtual speed bump as drivers approach the original entrance, slowing down traffic and improving safety for all,
especially those using our original and accessible entrance.
7. Rabbi Charles Sherman visiting Ohev Shalom as our guest speaker, moving us with his book, but also with a new and invigorated
appreciation of love, belief, and life.
8. Our first Inclusion Shabbat Service attended by a large cross section of our multigenerational community and facilitated by our
wonderful clergy, families, teen volunteers, and sign language interpreter.
9. Sam Sandler, “America’s only full time Deaf Illusionist,” and his daughter, helping us celebrate Jewish Disability Awareness month in
February by amazing us with his magical tricks and inspiring us with his messages.
10. Our Hebrew School students who, under the direction and leadership of Barbara Glickman, Suzanne Gold and our dedicated teaching
staff, participating in awareness activities that truly broadened their understanding of living and learning in different ways.
11. Kristin Arniotis, her phenomenal son, Billy, and her father Ronald Chakler, visiting us and inspiring us with Kristin and Billy’s story, “I
Have Autism and That’s Okay.”
12. One of our Celebrations! at Ohev parents writing an article about our program and their experiences which was featured in the Jewish
Exponent, which then led to a donation to Celebrations! at Ohev made by another non-profit organization that had read and was
inspired by the story.
13. Ohev Shalom being highlighted in Jewish Learning Venture’s annual Innovations report as a synagogue that advocates for inclusion as a
high priority throughout our community.
14. Jackson Reiter developing a phenomenal event, Family Fun and Game Day, as his Bar Mitzvah project, to benefit Inclusion B’Kavod, which
will hopefully become an annual event.
15. The development of Inclusion B’Kavod Pew Sheets that will be placed throughout the sanctuary so that congregants and guests will
become familiar with our mission, vision and what can be offered and available in terms of accommodations.
16. The Inclusion B’Kavod Mezuzah Project which, with our congregation’s support, will place our specially designed Gary Rosenthal
Inclusion B’Kavod Mezuzah below the existing mezuzah on each doorway throughout our campus enabling a mezuzah to be reached by
all of our members - sitting or standing, child or adult.
17. The realization that though our three year grant by our generous and anonymous sponsors has come to its end, we have faith that we
can remain cognizant of our mission and goals, continue our programs and projects, both already active and those yet to be developed,
as a sustained entity with the support of our congregants, our community, all of the various arms of our shul, our clergy and our Board
of Directors.
18. The determination and desire that enables us to be cognizant at all times of our synagogue wide commitment statement … Ohev Shalom
celebrates the uniqueness of each individual and welcomes diversity within our sacred community.
B’Shalom,
Lindsay Miller
Inclusion B’Kavod “If there be among you a person with needs, you shall not harden your heart,
but you shall surely open your hand.” (Deuteronomy 15:7)
Ohev Shalom celebrates the uniqueness of each individual and welcomes diversity within our sacred community.
P A G E 1 7
IBK Volunteer Focus of the Month … Jackson Reiter
It truly goes without saying that Jackson Reiter is our Inclusion B’Kavod Volunteer Focus for the month of June. Jackson’s v ision and
determination for a unique, creative and inspirational Bar Mitzvah project to benefit Inclusion B’Kavod, is how our first Family Game and Fun
Day, which took place on Sunday May 3 2015, was created. It was Jackson’s idea, from start to completion and it was hugely supported by a
true cross section of our multi-generational congregation. Developed as an “unplugged” afternoon of board games and crafts designed for
our ELC through Hebrew School students, the afternoon was fun for all, complete with kosher pizza lunch donated by Men’s Club, delicious
ice cream dessert, and both teen and adult volunteers. Even those who were not able to attend supported Jackson’s vision with their
donations, kind words, and encouragement. We have every expectation that this will now become an annual event. Thank you Jackson, the
entire Reiter family, all of our volunteers and all of you who attended and supported Family Game and Fun Day!
Family Game and Fun Day was a huge success! We raised a lot of money for the Inclusion Program. Over thirty kids and their families had
fun playing games, doing crafts, eating pizza and ice cream (thank you to the Men’s Club), and socializing. It was awesome to see so many
kids hanging out together at Ohev Shalom having a good time. Thank you to everyone who donated, helped, and attended. Special thanks
to Lindsay Miller, Suzanne Gold, and the Inclusion Team.
Jackson Reiter
Inclusion B’Kavod is proud to announce the launch of our Mezuzah Project
We have committed to placing a mezuzah that can be reached by all of our members - sitting or standing,
child or adult - on each of our doorways. There are 27 doorways that will need a second mezuzah.
In collaboration with artist Gary Rosenthal, the IBK committee has designed a mezuzah to reflect our passion
for and commitment to inclusion.
The first 27 people to make a donation of $218 will have their IBK mezuzah hung in the building and their
name placed on a recognition plaque in the lobby.
Once we have all of the needed mezuzot, we will have a limited number of additional mezuzot that will be
available for personal use.
Checks should be made to Ohev Shalom, with “IBK Mezuzah” in the note.
The IBK committee would like to thank the Confirmation Class of 2015 for choosing to sponsor the first 2
mezuzot as their class gift. These will be placed on the main entrance and the school entrance.
Our Mezuzah Project formally began on the night of the Congregational Meeting – May 13. Orders are
currently being taken by Joanne Adar at [email protected] or 215 694 6932
or http://www.ohev.org/donate-paypal/.
Many thanks for your support! The Inclusion B’Kavod Team
Inclusion Follow-up … David Zeitzer
It has come to my attention that I have been an inspiration to people because of my recovery from my accident. What else could I do but
therapy, exercises, lift weights, and push forward to get better? My doctor called and told my wife that I have become an inspiration to the
office staff. They first saw me when I left rehab on a gurney, and I returned a month later in my wheelchair upbeat. What else could I do,
throw in the towel? Relatives have remarked how well I have progressed. Once again, what was I supposed to do? I find it hard to accept
these types of comments. There is no other thing to do - I couldn’t give up and will never give up trying to get better. I again thank you all
for your support and my wife for her tireless assistance. KEEP PUSHING FORWARD.
P A G E 1 8
Hebrew High School. I am confident that with focused and disciplined efforts we can meet all of these goals and
exceed some of them. In particular, outreach to new members is critical and the entire congregation can and should
play a role. Everyone knows several unaffiliated Bucks County Jews. Please send us the names of just a few. We
should proudly and unabashedly “talk up” Ohev Shalom. Our publicity has been outstanding as of late. We have
more going on here than any synagogue in the area. We are the only Conservative synagogue in Bucks County with
two clergy. We have a great pre-school, a great Hebrew School and an exciting new Hebrew High School program.
Let’s all get out the message that is of Ohev Shalom. And keep this I mind: Our biggest competition by far is for the
unaffiliated. There are plenty of Bucks County Jews for every synagogue to thrive. Our job is to get the message to
them of Ohev Shalom.
Our short term debt at the end of this year will be a modest $60,000, really representing only the bills from vendors that we will receive
towards the end of May and into June. In the past, because of our cash flow issues, we have had to borrow from congregants, borrow against
internal funds and delay vendor payments. As a result our short term debt at the end of the year has been as high as $200,000. We should all be
proud that we have been able to keep up with our bills this year even as we have paid off the short term debt from last year.
Short Term Debt Mortgage Mortgage
As of June 30, 2011 $140,000 As of June 30 2011 $1.6 million
2012 $215,000 2012 $1.53 million
2013 $130,000 2013 $1.5 million
2014 $175,000 2014 $1.47 million
2015 $60,000 2015 $1.445 million
Our long term mortgage is a different matter. We refinanced our mortgage five years ago and we are due to refinance again this summer. We
have one term sheet in had at relatively favorable terms and we expect two more. As you will see from the numbers above, having to refinance
every five years, which is standard for loans to synagogues means that we never pay off much of our mortgage. Unlike your home mortgage
payments, which eventually get to the point where you are paying mostly principle, our annual payments, which are close to $100,000, are almost
all for interest. Therefore, we have paid $500,000 to the bank but our principle has been reduced by only $150,000, and a good chunk of that
was a one-time payment of $50,000 that we made a few years ago. Paying off the all or a good portion of the mortgage is a conversation that we
as a community should have. The annual payments, not to mention the costs involved every time we renew, all of which come from our
congregants, would be better used to further our mission or to reduce dues, not to enrich the bank.
With that I will end my presentation of the numbers. Special thanks to the finance team for helping me understand all of this and prepare it in a
way that is presentable to the congregation.
Happy summer.
(Continued from page 3)
P A G E 1 9
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Contact Allan Silverberg for
more information at
A D A T H T I K V A H - M O N T E F I O R E
C H A P E L F U N D In Honor of
My recovery, by Jeffrey Camson
Yizkor, by Paula Spigler
In Memory of
Yahrzeit of my beloved husband, Herbert Carson, by Rose M. Carson
Jeannette Tolmich, sister of Steve Miller, by Alice and Sammy Heller
A M Y R O C K O W E R
M E M O R I A L A R T C E N T E R In Honor of
Birth of Blake Evan Babbitt, grandson of Howard and Joanne Babbitt, by
Ilene and Sy Rockower
B E N N E T Z I O N F E L D
M E M O R I A L L I B R A R Y In Honor of
Soni and Marvin Feld in their new home, by
Eileen and Jahn Nolan
Florrie Fisher and Martin Watkins
Bernice and Ira Berkowitz
Mark Pachman receiving the Shalom Award, by Bernice and Ira Berkowitz
C O O K F O R A F R I E N D
In Honor of
Mort Tanenbaum’s 90th birthday, by Jerry Gottesman
Torah lifting honor during Pesach, by Bill Goldman
Speedy recovery of Harriette Mirsky, by Harriette and Steve Rellis
90th Birthday of David Mirsky, by Harriette and Steve Rellis
Speedy recovery of Idelle Wood, by Harriette and Steve Rellis
Mimi Pollack being honored, by Harriette and Steve Rellis
In Memory of
Lorraine Linsk, mother of David Linsk, by Marty and Gail Rosenfeld
Yiskor of Zelda Gottesman, by Jerry Gottesman
Louis Goldberg, father of Rick Goldberg, by
Jody and Brent Horwitz
Sandy and Raymond Savett
Lawrence Etkind, father of Ivy Graff, by Nadine Myerson
Brother, Martin Neidenberg, by Gloria Brooks
Mother-in-law, Ethel Brooks, with much fondness, by Gloria Brooks
Harriette Davidson, mother of Jeffrey Davidson, by
Bernice and Ira Berkowitz
Helene and Ron Peyton
Harriette and Steve Rellis
Shirley Gershenson, by Libby and Dave Weiss
Robert Klein, father of Barry Klein, by Harriette and Steve Rellis
Jeanette Tolmich, sister of Steve Miller, by Scott and Fran Gordon
C O L L E G E C O N N E C T I O N F U N D
In Honor of
Alexa Goldberg’s NCAA Big 12 gymnast of the week and WVU Athlete of
the week honors, by Holly and David Goldberg
In Memory of
Jessie Jacobs, mother of Saul Jacobs, by Steven and Marci Laderman
E A R L Y L E A R N I N G C E N T E R F U N D
In Memory of
Lorraine Linsk, mother of David Linsk, by Shelly and Saul Jacobs
Yiskor of Zelda Gottesman, by Jerry Gottesman
Jessie Jacobs, mother of Saul Jacobs, by
Neil and Susan Mittelman
Bev and Steve Levin
Elaine Aronsohn, mother of Estelle Rabinowitz
Lawrence Etkind, father of Ivy Graff, by Debbie and Larry Grant
G A R Y D O L I N E
H I G H H O L Y D A Y P R A Y E R B O O K F U N D
In Memory of
Lawrence Etkind, father of Ivy Graff, by
Linda, Stephen, Dani, Jonathan and Josh
Louis Goldberg, father of Richard Goldberg, by Ronda and Ron Dorfman
H A Z A K
O F O H E V S H A L O M
In Memory of
Ninth Yahrzeit of Allen Waldman, by Enid Waldman
I N C L U S I O N B ’ K A V O D
In Honor of
Jackson Reiter’s Bar Mitzvah, by Karen and Howard Brooks
Birth of Blake Evan Babbitt, grandson of Joanne and Howard Babbitt, by
Barbara and Jerry Kaplan
Linda Barankin
In Memory of
Lawrence Etkind, father of Ivy Graff, by
Caren and Nat Bosk
The Nover Family
Yiskor of Zelda Gottesman, by Jerry Gottesman
Jessie Jacobs, mother of Saul Jacobs, by Shelley and Lenny Rubin
Lorraine Linsk, mother of David Linsk, by Shelley and Lenny Rubin
Jeanette Tolmich, sister of Steve Miller, by
Joanne and Jonathan Adar
Arlene and Warren Roman
Liz and David Nover
K O P P E R / P O L L A C K C A M P R A M A H
S C H O L A R S H I P F U N D
In Honor of
My Aliyah on Pesach, by Mimi Pollack
M A X A D E L S B E R G
T O R A H R E A D E R S ’ F U N D In Memory of
Jessie Jacobs, mother of Saul Jacobs, by Gail and Sam Goldstein
Lawrence Etkind, father of Ivy Graff, by Gail and Sam Goldstein
M I R I A M P E R L S T E I N
M E M O R I A L F U N D In Honor of
Rabbi’s support during the loss of mother, by Amy and Jon Fisher
We Thank Our Generous Contributors P A G E 2 0
For donations call 215-322-9595
or on-line at
http://www.ohev.org/donations
P A G E 2 1
O H E V S H A L O M
G E N E R A L F U N D
In Honor of
Holocaust Memorial Service, by L.I. Rubin
In Memory of
Lorraine Linsk, mother of David Linsk, by
Marv Rosner and Family
David and Shelley Geltzer
Anita Gross
Jessie Jacobs, mother of Saul Jacobs, by Cantor Paul and Arlene Frimark
Selma Vogel, mother of Gail Goldstein, by Cantor Paul and Arlene Frimark
Lawrence Etkind, father of Ivy Graff, by Cantor Paul and Arlene Frimark
Pauline Price, aunt of Carl Goldtein, by Sandy, Mark and Josh Fisher
Harrietta Davidson, mother of Jeffrey Davidson by
Linda Domers-Petti
David and Shelley Geltzer
O H E V S H A L O M
M I T Z V A H F U N D
In Memory of
Harriette Davidson, mother of Jeff Davidson, by Jahn and Eileen Nolan
O H E V S H A L O M
T O R A H F U N D
In Honor of
Speedy recovery for Idelle Wood, by Jahn and Eileen Nolan
R A B B I ’ S D I S C R E T I O N A R Y F U N D
In Honor of
Our 50th Anniversary, by Marlyn and Herb Harris
In Memory of
Robert Klein, father of Barry Klein, by The Gelb Family
Mollie Davis, mother of Rose LaKier, by Saul and Rose LaKier
Samuel Davis, father of Rose LaKier, by Saul and Rose LaKier
Jennie, sister of Lillian Friedrich, by Stephanie and Len Arnold
Eugene Lebovic, father of Gabriel Lebovic, by Gabriel Lebovic Waldman
S I S T E R H O O D
In Honor of
Sheila and Mort Tannenbaum’s 67th Anniversary, and
Mort’s 90th Birthday, by
Linda Barankin, Stephen Springer, and Dani Breitbart
Ed and Elaine Snyder’s grandson’s Bar Mitzvah, by
Paula Spigler, Ana Andrusier, and Natalie Scharf
Speedy recovery and Refuah Shleymah for Michele Bernstein, by
Sisterhood
Linda Barankin & Stephen Springer
Denise & Mark Kolber
Fran & Roy Silverman
Roberta & Greg Gordon
Birth of Myer Conrad Freedman, grandson of Adrienne & Alan Magness,
by Linda Barankin
Speedy Recovery and Refuah Shlema for Idelle Wood, by Sisterhood &
Denise & Mark Kolber
Roberta & Greg Gordon
Linda Barankin
Fran & Roy Silverman
Speedy Recovery for Rachel Goldstein, by Sisterhood &
Linda Barankin
Speedy Recovery for Dr. Amy Brodkey, by
Linda Barankin
Speedy Recovery for Terry Jaffe, by
Linda Barankin
Bubby Gourmet
In Memory of
Enna and Boris, parents of Elana and Jon Sereda and families, by
Linda Crowell
Jessie Jacobs, mother of Saul Jacobs, by
Linda & Mark Shapiro
Hedy & Neil Hoffman
Fern & Drew Shulman
Lorraine Linsk, mother of David Linsk, by Sisterhood &
Joanne & Howard Babbitt
Tuesday Mah Jongg Ladies
Adrianne & Alan Cohen
Hedy & Neil Hoffman
Selma D. Vogel, mother of Gail Goldstein, by
Hedy & Neil Hoffman
Lawrence Etkind, father of Ivy Graff, by Sisterhood &
Roberta & Greg Gordon
Hedy & Neil Hoffman
Tanya & Allan Katz
Linda & Mark Shapiro
Denise & Mark Kolber
Fran & Roy Silverman
Harriette Davidson, mother of Jeffrey Davidson, by Sisterhood &
Fran & Roy Silverman
Yahrzeit of William Feder, by Harriet & Joel Feder
S I S T E R H O O D
K E S H E R F U N D In Honor of
Mort Tanenbaum’s 90th birthday, by Anna Andruiser and Paula Spigler
Speedy and full recovery of Idelle Wood, by Florrie Fisher
Birth of Blake Evan Babbitt, grandson of Joanne and Howie Babbitt, by
Linda Barankin
Y A H R T Z E I T F U N D
In Memory of
Perry Goldberg, by Harvey and Marsha Goldberg
Father, Maurice Merion, by Rose M. Carson, Phillip Mirsky,
Shirley Kushner, Fannye Rellis and Abraham Rellis by
Harriette and Steve Rellis
Hersh Andrusier, by Anna Andrusier
P A G E 2 2
Sisterhood has had a wonderful year, much for all to be proud
about. Just recently along with the help of both Men's club and
Hazak we purchased a beautiful new stove for our kitchen. For all
those who cook and bake at Ohev this is very exciting and long
overdue. This past week Sisterhood paid to have the parking lot
repaired of all those incredibly large potholes, it's amazing what a
winter can do. There is much, much more and thank you to each
of you for your support, without which none of the many
donations we are able to make would be possible.
Wishing you and you family a wonderful, relaxing, safe summer.
We look forward to seeing you in the fall as Ohev Shalom
celebrates our 40th year.
Yasher Koach and B'Shalom to all,
Hedy & Linda
Sisterhood of Ohev Shalom
Book Club
Please join us on Thursday June 4th at 7:30 p.m. at Ohev Shalom as
we discuss The Book Borrower by Alice Mattison.
Please rsvp to Denise at 215-499-2123 or [email protected].
Sisterhood’s Closing Affair
Thursday, June 11, 2015 at 6:30 PM
Hors d’Oeuvres and Dinner. Please RSVP to Barbara Kaplan.
Torah Fund
The Mishpachah theme this year encourages us, Conservative Jews,
to recognize the diverse character of families. It also encourages
our communities to be pluralistic, welcoming and open hearted.
Join us once again in supporting the Jewish Theological Seminary.
Contact Michele Bernstein at 215-741-9937 or
Simcha Boutique
Remember to shop Simcha Boutique for bridal showers, engagement
gifts, new baby gifts, hostess gifts, new house warming gifts, Judaica, or
just about any gift you will need.
Our lights may be out for the summer but we are here for you by
appointment. Please call 215-322-9595 or
Gail Wiener - 215-293-0506 or Email us at [email protected]
Mah Jongg
Every Tuesday at Noon. 18 week sessions for a donation of $54.00
Bring your Mah Jongg card & set … $$$ Prizes
Any questions call or email [email protected] / 215-322-1166
Birthday Greetings
Say 'Happy Birthday' in such a sweet way !!)
Our Birthday Greetings Program is just .75 cents per greeting or
$118.00 for the entire Sisterhood membership. Your name will be
included on the beautiful Birthday card which we send.
To participate contact Susan Berk
[email protected] or 215-956-0432.
Canasta
Canasta Open Play for $2.00 each Thursday from 1 to 3 PM.
Lessons also offered for $5.00/ lesson or $18.00/4.
Any questions? - [email protected] / 215-968-6755
Honor & Memory Cards
Such a wonderful way to support our Sisterhood. With a donation
of $5.00 (or more) cards can be mailed for you or you can
purchase them in advance.
Call or email Joanne Babbitt at 215-968-0107 - [email protected]
Women’s League of Conservative Judaism
Sisterhood had the honor of hosting the Mid Atlantic Region of
Women's League of Conservative Judaism Spring Conference on
May 3rd. We are both blessed and honored to have three past
region Presidents as part of our Congregation family - Sandy
Blumenthal, Mimi Pollack and Idelle Wood. Past Sisterhood
Presidents Roberta Gordon and Iris Segal Co-Chaired the event.
There were over 75 women in attendance from Sisterhoods
around our region. Keynote speaker was Randy Schwartz,
International Vice President and Region Services Team Leader. The
theme of the day was Educate, Inspire and Empower.
Preview of 2015-2016
9/27/15 Jill Zarin & Family Real Housewives of New York
10/2015 Paid up Membership
11/2/15 Fashion Show at Springmill
11/22/15 Trip to Broadway to see “On Your Feet”.
Sisterhood can be reached 24/6
by email at [email protected]
The Shalach Manot flowers begin to bloom.
P A G E 2 3
RICHBORO
Shop n Bag Murray Battleman, Owner
and member of Ohev Shalom
A full service Supermarket giving great value to our community
1025 N. Second Street Pike, Richboro, PA 18954, (215) 355-5300
Sisterhood BINGO night
Photos Courtesy of Mandy Rothstein
Over 250 women came out to play
and support this great evening!
P A G E 2 4
At our breakfast last month with we hosted Eric Raskin, the author of "The Moneymaker Effect" a
book about the rise of the big money Texas Holdem' tournaments. Eric talked to us about the
poker phenomenon as well as insight into the world of boxing based on his experience as a writer
for "Ring Magazine". The talk was followed up by a mini-Texas Holdem' tournament and I am
delighted to say that I came in tied for first, sharing the prize money with Jonathan Tobas! It was a
great breakfast and a great morning. Special thanks to Eric's family for coming out to support our
event.
We are winding down our year, but we have two terrific programs remaining:
The first is a tour of Dad's Hat Distillery located at 925 Canal Street in Bristol, PA scheduled for
Sunday, June 28th. This distillery which is only a few years old produces several different types of
rye whiskey, ranging from 2-year old aged to single barrel whiskeys and a 100-proof white rye
whiskey. The tour includes a tasting and the opportunity to purchase their products – perfect for
that Manhattan, Old Fashioned or for some of the ladies, some fruity, tasty concoctions. The tour is
open to all members of the synagogue, men and women alike and promises to be an enlightening
experience. Please e-mail Ron Wolf at [email protected] for your reservation. If you would like
to learn more about Dad's Hat, visit their website, www.dadshatrye.com.
The second is our annual trip to the Trenton Thunder Jewish Heritage night to be held on August
25th. There will be kosher food available. This has always proven to be a great time and the price
of the tickets are modest. Again, please contact Ron if you are interested in purchasing tickets. We
had over 75 people attend this event two years ago, and it was a wonderful evening.
While it is not too late to think about the fall, we have fixed the date of our third annual Scotch and
Steak in the Sukkah dinner for Tuesday, September 29th. And the annual Federation of Jewish Men's
Clubs Man of the Year Dinner will be held on Sunday, December 20th at Temple Sinai in Dresher, PA. We are excited to announce the
Cantor Paul Frimark will be Ohev Shalom's Man of the Year. Please mark this on your calendar for these two special events and look for
more details to follow.
I also want to congratulate Ron Wolf who was installed as a Vice President of the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of the Federation of Jewish Men's
Clubs. As a board member, Ron has our interests at heart and helps steer the organization with their programming.
As I start on my fourth year as President of the Men's Club, I want to thank the board members for their support as well as all of the
members of the club for coming out and supporting the synagogue. The Men's Club is not only a social organization, but one where we
gather to help and look out for each other. Meaningful spirituality by gathering as a group and discussing our issues, meeting with the Rabbi
for Torah on Tap or participating in the Sunday morning Minyan, and our two Men's Club Shabbat services has had great meaning for me
and I have enjoyed the camaraderie of sharing with the men.
Please look for your membership renewal letter to be mailed to you shortly – we look forward to a great 2015 – 2016.
Mark Podob
Men’s Club
Eric Raskin, Ohev Shalom
congregant and speaker at our Men's
Club Breakfast this past April
Ohev Shalom's TD Affiliation
IF YOU HAVE AN ACCOUNT ALREADY … YOU ARE WAY AHEAD! Here is how we can all help!! So very easy!!
1. Do you already have accounts at TD? Please go to the Richboro location (or your location) and let them know you are an
Ohev member. They will include ALL YOUR ACCOUNTS INTO OUR AFFINITY PROGRAM. (None of your personal
information is passed on to us - ever!)
2. If you do not have an account, then please consider opening up one. All types of accounts are available.
How do we benefit? We will earn between 1/4-1/2% of your balance. When you visit TD Richboro location ask for Reyka,
the manager. Thank you for your support and please call me if I can help you out in any way.
Linda Crowell 215-450-2405
Fundraising
IRIS SEGAL, ABR, CRS, GRI, SRES
Take advantage of my 30 + years experience.
I am a member of the Centurion Honor Society
Specializing in Residential Resale & New Construction
Proudly Serving Bucks, Philadelphia & Montgomery Counties
From Your First Home to Your Dream Home, I Can Help!
(ABR) Accredited Buyer Representative
(CRS) Certified Residential Specialist
(SRES) Seniors Real Estate Specialist
OFFICE: 215-968-6703 CELL: 267-474-7030
WEBSITE: www.irissegal.com E-MAIL: [email protected]
IRIS is a proud and active member of Ohev Shalom since 1978.
Results Not Promises, When
Buying or Selling Your Home
P A G E 2 5
Last month, in concert with the Adult Education Committee, we were pleased to welcome Rabbi
Robyn Frisch to Ohev Shalom. Robyn Frisch is Director of Interfaith Family Philadelphia and also
spiritual leader of Temple Menorah Kenseth Chai, the oldest synagogue in northeast Philadelphia.
She spoke to us on the topic "Lessons I've Learned working with Interfaith Couples and Families",
reflecting on her 15 years since her ordination, and particularly her past two years as Director of
Interfaith Family.
Once the floor was opened to questions and comments, a lively discussion touched on topics that
included understanding the perspective of extended family members who are not Jewish, how the
traditions of a parent who is not Jewish are honored in an interfaith family, and what it truly means
for synagogues and Jewish institutions to "engage" and "embrace" (and not just "tolerate") family
members who are not Jewish. Even pop-culture was discussed as the Rabbi compared the sitcom
"Bridgette Loves Bernie" which aired in 1972 and was pulled from CBS's line-up as too
controversial, with the "Big Bang Theory" where the interfaith marriage between Howard and
Bernadette is only a footnote to the show.
Most meaningful was the participation of all, some whom are the parents of children in interfaith
marriages, and some of the younger participants, who are interfaith marriages themselves. They
engaged Rabbi Frish, expressing their personal situations. The level of sharing was incredible and
we look to host more sessions like this in the coming months.
Mark Podob
Rabbi Robyn Frisch
P A G E 2 6
for children to grow up in our synagogue. It is a great time to be members of Ohev Shalom. I see our future as bright
today and how much brighter with a return our own kids and a new influx of young people wanting the best
opportunities for themselves and their children. We should spread the word.
And as for ourselves … we can just be happy that we are already here. As summer approaches, many tourists come
to Bucks County for the season. Again, we can just be happy that we are already here.
My best for an enjoyable and restful summer.
Rabbi
(Continued from page 2)
Yom HaShoah Candle Project.
We gratefully acknowledges the following contributions that help preserve the memories of those who perished while sustaining the Jewish people.
- Michael Zimet and the Men’s Club
Sponsors ($54 +) In Memory of
Cantor Paul & Arlene Frimark
Marsha & Chester Heller
Janet & Ira Hersh, Scott, & Brooke Irwin & Ethel Hersh
Liz & David Nover
Inessa & Gary Parkansky Mordhe Khrizman, Genya Biniminovich, & Mara Biniminovich
The Pevar Family
The Babbitt Family
Debbie & Ed Caplan Dora and Percy Kaye & Family
Rose Carson
The Dotzman Family
Amy & Jon Fisher
Mitch & Carol Gerson
Bill & Marci Goldman
Leah & Jerry Gomberg
Mr. & Mrs. Eric Greenspun David Benjamin
Alice & Sammy Heller
Felicia & Michael Krupit
Carol & Len Lebowitz
Raymond Levy David Levy, Charles Levy, & Anne Weiser
Jahn & Eileen Nolan
Larry & Lori Peck Bernard Rosenberg, Rita Peck, & Raoul Peck
Marc & Lisa Perecman
Mimi & Bernie Pollack
Susan & Sean Reiter
Jennifer Schied
Rita Solofsky Devorah Jur-Yuer, Razel Jur-Yuer, & M. Jur-Yuer
Sylvia Stern
Sherwyn Tucker
The Washerstein Family
Marta & Steve Wexler Ben & Rose Selesky, Rachel & Martin Gur, Dinah & Harry Wexler
P A G E 2 7
36+ Year Members
Howard and Joanne Babbitt
Mark and Judy Bonn
Aaron and Marsha Cane
Michael and Marsha Freedman
David and Judy Friedman
Alan Golombek
Larry and Debbie Grant
Anita Gross
Saul and Ilene Katz
Jeff Kravitz
Marvin and Leslie Kreithen
David and Sylvia Linsk
Fred and Rita Mastroni
Stephen Paul
Ron and Helene Peyton
Stanley and Paula Segal
Vivian Spector
Murray and Bonnie Zuckerman
Photo Courtesy of Joanne Adar
18 Year Members
Harris and Karen Abrams
Murray Battleman
Robert and Anne Bermon
Mark and Marlene Davidow
Robin Geller
Steven Geller
Larry and Natalie Katz
Barry and Judy Klein
Scott Korn and Audrey Kleeman
Gabriel and Agnes Lebovic
Seymour and Carol Mager
Michael and Elaine Makon
Richard and Beth Newman
Jeffrey and Gale Pollock
Edward and Abby Rosenberg
Steven and Iris Sabel
Robert and Caren Sattler
Michael and Danielle Schwartz
Michael and Donna Sharp
Scott Van Dyke
Photo Courtesy of Joanne Adar
Ohev Shalom of Bucks County
944 Second Street Pike
Richboro, PA 18954-1527
Phone: 215-322-9595
Fax: 215-322-8253
www.Ohev.org
Non Profit Org.
UNITED STATES
POSTAGE PAID
Southampton, PA 18966
Permit No. 164
Return Service Requested
Enjoy Your Summer