- - CHRONICLES - -

SPRING 2009 — IYAR 5769

DECEMBER, 2008 ----KISLEV 5769

SEPTEMBER 2008 ... ELUL 5768

JULY 2008....................TAMUZ 5768

SPRING 2009 — IYAR 5769

WELCOME...THE NEW SEASON...

Although our "official" 2009 season does not begin until Rabbi Morris returns on May 15, we got off to an early and successful start with Reel Judaism, at the Bay Street Theater...the first offering of our Israeli Film Festival, Walk on Water, was very well received. The next film, Campfire, will be shown at Bay Street on May 3 at 11 AM. The suggested donation for the film, coffee and bagels is $8.00.

TAI joins with the other East End Jewish Congregations in celebrating Israel’s Independence Day on April 26. Each venue will offer its own program; TAI’s, to be shown at the Temple at 1:30, is a free showing of Visions of Israel, which was originally produced by and seen on the Public Broadcasting System. Rona and Alan Klopman were responsible for organizing all of the films being shown.

On Sunday, May 24th, Dr. Richard Gambino, Professor Emeritus at Queens College, will give the first of two talks about Jewish Philosophers and their respective relationships to Judaism past and present. His first talk will be on Baruch Spinoiza (1632-1677); the second, on June 14, will be on Martin Buber (1878-1965). Both will be at TAI at 11 AM.

Prof. Ralph Buultjens, expert on international politics, will make his annual appearance on Friday evening June 26; watch your Calendar and weekly TAI e-mails for his topic.

On Sunday June 28th at 5 PM the Temple holds its annual Members’ Cocktail Party. This year it will be at the new home of Ann and Howard Chwatsky and will honor our Presidential couple -Neal and Andrea Fagin. This event is always fun...don’t miss it!

Other programs in the works at the time of publication include Shabbat dinner on a Friday in July; a Pot Luck Supper in mid-August and a talk by Prof. Morris Dickstein, a widely published author on American culture and literature and a reviewer for the NYTimes Book Review. He is Distinguished Professor of English at the Graduate Center, City University of New York.

There will also be a Scholar in Residence weekend (date tbd) during which we will study with the scholar at Friday night services and Saturday Torah study, with a late afternoon session including a "seudah shlishit" in a member’s home. The scholar is a young Israeli man, Mishael Zion in the U.S. to study at Yeshivat Chovevei Torah. He is" warm,
engaging and has a strong scholarly presentation" according to Barbara Freedman who took a class with him.

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Message from RABBI LEON A. MORRIS...

Dear Friends,

Dasee, Tamir and I are eagerly awaiting our return to Sag Harbor in mid-May. The congregation has had its most active winter season to date, and we’re so inspired by the many ways in which our community continues to grow, enlightened by wonderful lay leadership. Here are a few highlights from our exciting Summer 09 program:

We will have an "early" Friday night service at 6:30 PM on the last Friday of each month. We found that this time is better for a significant sector of the congregation who find it hard to attend at 8PM.

Beginning in July we will offer a Family Shabbat celebration on the beach every other Friday at 5 PM. More information at a later date.

Building on the successful pilot we tried last summer, we will have "Minchah" (afternoon service) and Cocktails" once a month -a half hour service that includes reading the Torah followed by summer cocktails, wine and cheese. Please contact me if you’d like to sponsor one of these Saturday programs to honor or memorialize a loved one.

On Saturday mornings when there is no Bar or Bat Mitzvah, our regular Torah study will continue weekly, with one enhancement – we will begin each week by reading the Torah. Participants will have an opportunity for an aliya and to see the Torah read up close, in an intimate setting. After this 20 minute service, we will recite kiddush and continue to enjoy refreshments throughout the class that follows.

Finally, this summer we will continue to devote ourselves to strengthening a sense of community and making our synagogue a house of God. We’ll build on the meaningful conversations begun last summer, about enriching the life of our congregation with a series of conversations on topics of specific interest to various members. These will be held on select Shabbat afternoons at our home on Bay Street over a "Seudah Shlishit" (light afternoon meal). Dates to come soon. Topics will include:

*Helping console mourners and assisting with Shiva

*Interfaith families

*Artists interested in applying their talents to enhance congregational life

*Those interested in (or already) leading services during the winter.

*Visiting the sick in hospitals and at home

I look forward to sharing these experiences and many others in the months ahead.

L’Shalom,

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HEBREW SCHOOL...

We’ve had a winter of wonderful, intense learning. We celebrated Tu B’shevat at my house with a beautiful Seder of fruits and vegetables. We lit candles, drank wine and helped our children make connections between the dark bleakness of winter, the inevitable return of spring and our family choices to improve the world. Our children gave their ideas of a perfect world... a place where there is enough for everyone to eat, a place where animals are happy, and a place where everyone lives without fighting. The evening was touching and beautiful.

Purim was different this year…following our school tradition of keeping things light but learned, we skipped the carnival and did Purim Jeopardy, pitting parents against students in their knowledge of Purim lore…the students won of course. Aiden Doyle took the prize, and won a beautiful mezuzah from the Jillery collection (thanks to Jill Fagin for all your contributions to the School). The men and women of our congregation also created a beautiful midrash on the character of Esther/Vashti, a tribute to feminine courage. It will hang downstairs in the Social Hall. Finally, Donna Mashadi gave a beautiful reading of

the Megillah in Hebrew. ..and parents, grandparents, friends and neighbors took turns reading the English from our school created scroll. Once again my Hamantaschen fell apart while baking, but we all munched on cookies that tasted good!

Finally, we held our model Seder... it was like all other model seders in almost every way except that our students know that for every ancient plague in the land of Egypt, there is a modern plague faced by some child in our country or even here in Sag Harbor: unemployment: hunger: life without good water: homelessness: war: no schools: HIV/AIDS: gun violence. The kids compiled this list and we, their parents and teachers, strongly believe they will help make the changes they wish to see.

I am also happy to announce that each week the Holiday PlaySpace at TAI gains a new member. Take a look at our upgraded small classroom and see the wonderful toys contributed by the Doyle and Levine families. Our little group sings, cooks, listens to short stories about the holidays and incorporates the spirituality of early childhood learning into their parenting. If the temple has an extra shine, it is because baby energy has its own special blessings.

I could not finish the School column without mentioning our four B’nei Mitzvot. They regularly help at Friday night services...each one with a unique soul and understanding of God’s creation. Our investment in these children gives us kids like WuQing Hipsch who teaches at the school each week with other junior teachers like Kye Vatash and Nick Dwoskin...and Nathaniel Oppenheimer who volunteered for two weeks in Zambia tutoring kids and adults in math and computers...and Zach Fischman who shares his dramatic talent with his school community. Jeremy Pepper assisted at services during the winter and Stephen Solow is devoted to Junior Soccer League.

If anyone in the congregation would like to make a meaningful donation to our School , we could use a working copy machine that copies multi-page documents. New is NOT necessary. Thanks in advance.

LEAH OPPENHEIMER, Director

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MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT NEAL FAGIN...

I have been away most of the winter. The first weekend in April was my only visit to the Temple in the "quiet" season. Amazing! There were more than 40 people at the Pot Luck dinner and most stayed for Shabbat service led by our student cantor Donna Mashadi. Saturday morning Donna led a Torah study class. On Sunday our Reel Judaism Israeli film festival kicked off at Bay Street Theater. This project was led by Rona and Alan Klopman, assisted by Gail and Richard Gambino. They screened many films and chose the best. The series began with Walk on Water which engaged the attention of the audience, many of whom stayed for the lively discussion moderated by Prof. Richard Gambino. We all enjoyed coffee, (donated by Java Nation) bagels and Danish and the opportunity to socialize before and after the screening.

Just as the Temple has become "full time", the Fagins have become full time Sag Harbor residents. We worked hard to get the house ready for our first Passover in our new home. All of us who live out here, or have second homes here, should stop and think how lucky we are to be in the Hamptons.

The above is a prelude to the letter you will receive with your Dues bills. To help pay for our ever increasing expenses, we must increase our dues by $50.00. That brings us to $400 per person; $800 per family. We realize these times are not great. If any of you have a problem paying your Temple dues, please pay at least Chai ($18.00 per person) or whatever you can. We know you’ll resume paying the regular dues when you are able. For those more fortunate among us, we are establishing a SuperChai category. We are asking those who can afford it to pay $1800.00 per person. We NEED your help in making up for those having trouble – and for the increased expenditures that come with being a full time congregation with a Hebrew School.

I hope that each of you has had a memorable Passover. I’m looking forward to greeting everyone soon. Remember, this year in Temple Adas Israel, next year in Jerusalem!

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LOST – AND FOUND!

Last fall Rabbi Morris was contacted, through the Jewish Museum, by Myra and Ira Miller of Tenafly, NJ. It seems Ira’s grandfather, Rabbi Israel Aaron Millner had served as TAI’s rabbi. The Millers (name had been changed from Millner, date unknown) were moving and found two bronze relief plaques -one of the rabbi, the other of his wife and wished to give them to our Temple. They were sculpted by the "internationally known sculptor" Joseph Nicolosi. Also found was a TAI program from 1959 in which tribute was paid "In Loving Memory of Rabbi Israel Aaron Millner 1909-1912."

Board member Sandy, and Sam Slipp live near the Millers and picked up the bronze pieces which are now at TAI ready for display. In the "small world" department, conversation between the Millers and the Slipps revealed they were all students at Cornell around the same time.

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ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT from MARGARET BROMBERG...

Temple life was very active during the winter, with each month, December through April, following a pattern of Shabbat observances including a monthly Shabbaton when student cantor Donna Mashadi was with us. With the Potluck meals that began each of the Shabbaton weekends, we were never sure of what would be on our dinner table...but there was always a wonderful array and both body and soul were nourished. Twice monthly lay-led services were enriching as the lay leaders each brought their own special approach to welcoming Shabbat. The interaction of leaders and congregation was meaningful to all. Thanks to congregants David Lee, Myra Peskowitz, Gail Gambino, Ann and Perry Silver, Leah Oppenheimer, Jerry Adelberg, Rona and Alan Klopman, Barbara Freedman and the young people of the congregation as well, for accepting and fulfilling this responsibility.

My own "life cycle" event – retirement from employment as a social worker– has resulted, as planned, in my spending more time in the Temple building being concerned with the affairs of Temple Adas Israel. Being able to pay more attention means that several beautification projects have been identified and, with the help of Leah Oppenheimer, Ann Chwatsky and Andrea Fagin, they have been accomplished, hopefully making our surroundings even more pleasant. Please look around the next time you’re in Temple, perhaps you’ll notice what we have done. Maybe you can even suggest other ways in which to make our "home" more welcoming.

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DAVE LEE REMEMBERS...

A little more about our past...as we began our growth spurt in the early sixties we had to make a decision about which branch of Judaism to embrace. Our options included Orthodox – which was not really a possibility since very few of our members could read Hebrew and generally they had a more liberal outlook.

So we then had to choose affiliation with either the Conservative movement or the Reform Union of American Hebrew Congregations (since renamed Union of Reform Judaism) because we found it desirable to have a national affiliation.

After considerable discussion the decision was made that for the benefit and continued growth of our congregation, and the availability of trained religious leaders Reform Judaism was the best choice. Every time we attend services and reflect on the clergy that graces our bima, our choice is reconfirmed. We have been remarkably fortunate to have had both student and ordained rabbis and talented student cantors officiate at our Shabbat and Holiday services and Life cycle events.

Most of our Rabbis, including Rabbi George Lieberman (whose lovely widow Sylvia worshiped with us until she moved down south), Rabbi Paul

Steinberg and our beloved current Rabbi Leon Morris have come to our shul through Hebrew Union College -Jewish Institute of Religion. Rabbi Arthur Gilbert, whose Haggadah we still use, was from the Reconstructionist College. In retrospect, I think we chose our affiliation wisely.

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ROSH CHODESH... from GAIL GAMBINO

Our monthly gathering of women braved frigid temperatures, snow and sometimes daunting ice-covered driveways. Fortified with wine and refreshments, together we kept the home-fires burning with lively discussions, learning, wonderful sharing and growing friendships. We happily welcomed three new members this winter, and as we welcome back our entire group, we hope to see new faces in the coming months. In substance, our monthly meeting continues to honor the Jewish Calendar with each month's salient features and celebration of Jewish women heroes as well. We have also expanded our discussions to include universal moral and ethical questions. They have included, Jewish Identity, Pain and Pride, The meaning of light in our lives, The Power of Faith and The various Facets of Freedom, to mention a few.

Members volunteer to co-lead our discussions, enriching the experience with many perspectives. New on the horizon, prompted by a suggestion by Dasee Berkowitz and inspired by Rabbi Morris's series of "town meetings" with the congregation, our Rosh Chodesh group will spear-head the formation of a "Caring Committee". In the time-honored tradition of Bikur Cholim, grounded in moral and spiritual obligation and a reflection of good and kind interpersonal relations, this committee will offer a formalized way of meeting congregants' needs during difficult times. Rosh Chodesh will form a nucleus of volunteers who will respond to a variety of needs and crises.

I have outlined a preliminary structure for this and will work with Dasee and Rabbi Morris and Margaret Bromberg and Myra Peskowitz in its eventual implementation. We will report to the congregation regularly as we move forward with what we hope will be an important contribution in connecting us more meaningfully as a community. With more than a nod of gratitude to Dasee Berkowitz for offering Rosh Chodesh to TAI, we continue to grow, support and nourish each other as we reach out to our Temple family.

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MEMBERSHIP...MYRA PESKOWITZ

In recent years there has been a steady increase in the number of people who have found their way to Temple Adas Israel. They’ve liked what they’ve seen and have become members. This year we are looking for even more of these people. We have designated the May 3rd Reel Judaism Israeli Film Festival screening at Bay Street as the kick off event for our Membership Drive..

Membership information will be available and members will there to answer questions about our Temple and the benefits of membership. If you know of anyone who might be interested joining the temple, please ask them to join us on that day and also please ask them to contact me at or at

631 -749 0580 for more information. Inviting potentially interested members to Temple Services and activities is always a good way to start them on the road to participation and membership.

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LIFE CYCLE EVENTS...

SIMCHAS!...Triple Mazel Tovs to Gert and Don Katz and their family on the achievements of their grandchildren. Sydney Katz, daughter of Hank and Jayne Katz, will become a Bat Mitzvah at the Temple (where her Dad was a Bar Mitzvah) on May 16. Noah Leavitt, son of Susan and Alan Leavitt, receives a double degree from Columbia U. and Jewish Theological Seminary in May and Noah’s sister, Jessica Leavitt will graduate from Dwight School and plans to attend the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT).

Mazel Tov to Alma and Irwin Hyman on the birth of their grandson, Isaac Milton H. Winters, who joins parents Diane and Ben Winters and big sister Rosalie.

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IN MEMORIAM...

...the congregation sends its heartfelt condolences and love to Rabbi Leon A. Morris, Dasee, Tamir and his entire family on the death of his father, Jay M. Morris on Feb. 2.

Our collective sympathy to Sue Fischer, devoted companion of Dr. Joseph Berkeley who died in her arms on December 9. Dr. Berkeley practiced dentistry on the east end for many years. He and his late wife were long time TAI members.

Bob Riskin eulogized his wife Kiki: she was stricken with more illnesses than a dozen women...and she fought back...she ran a business, raised two children, created wonderful art, made friends, gave parties –and she was funny!" We will all miss her.

Condolences also to Karl and Janet Grossman on the death of Karl’s father, Herbert Grossman, on March 27.

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ON THE MEND...

Best wishes to Alan Klopman who is on the road to recovery after recent surgery.

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CALLING ALL COOKS...

Another fabulous season of winter Pot Luck dinners has come to a close. These dinners provide a wonderful way to build community and socialize during the "quiet season" and have confirmed what great cooks we have in our midst. Despite the mandate that all food be dairy or parve we’ve had bountiful meals filled with gourmet treats. We’d like to compile a Temple Adas Israel Pot Luck Cook Book so the joy of these meals will not be lost. If you have ever contributed to any of these dinners (or lunches) or if you have a recipe appropriate for a Pot Luck dinner, please e-mail it to the temple or to me. We thank you in advance.

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NEWS NOTES...

Gail (and Richard) Gambino’s daughter, Erica Huberty, owner of Blossom Haven Interior Design, was a featured designer in a Newsday home makeover article. She was credited with decorating an Easthampton "getaway" cottage on a budget.

Myra and Dan Peskowitz’s daughter, Miriam Peskowitz, co-authored a new book The Double Daring Book for Girls in bookstores now.

Artist Joanna Lee exhibited several paintings in a two person show at the Crazy Monkey Gallery in January and happily sold a canvas..

Margaret and Mike Bromberg recently visited their daughter Minna in Jerusalem. At the end of April, Minna, a 4th year rabbinical student, will participate in Arava Institute’s annual 300 mile bike ride from Tel Aviv to Eilat to raise funds for environmental and peace causes.

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SEDER...

The Second Seder, marking the unofficial beginning of our Spring Season, is always a success. This year the "dining room" looked beautifully springlike with tables lovingly decorated by Janet Grossman, Seder planner extraordinaire, and her behind the scenes crew, Diane Lewis and Gail Gambino. Everyone was immediately welcomed by the appearance of the space, which truly set the tone for us to recount the story of the Exodus and experience the joy of freedom.

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PERSONNEL

RABBI LEON A. MORRIS: 212-507-9581

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STUDENT CANTOR DONNA MASHADI: 8562-881-2979

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ADMINISTRATOR: MARGARET BROMBERG

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PRESIDENT: NEAL FAGIN: 631-835-2902

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VICE PRESIDENT: ALAN LEAVITT

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SECRETARY: DAVID J. LEE: 631-725-0429

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TREASURER: HOWARD CHWATSKY

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HEBREW SCHOOL DIRECTOR: LEAH OPPENHEIMER

<Loppenhe@optonline.net - 631-725-9456

CHRONICLES EDITOR: LEDA C. GOLDSMITH

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BOARD MEMBERS: Don Doctorow, James Dwoskin, Barbara Freedman, Amy Fischman, Jonathan Nash Glynn, Leda C. Goldsmith, Janet Grossman, Donald Katz, Howard Maisel, Leah Oppenheimer, Sandy Slipp. Honorary Board Member, Sylvia Lieberman. Associate Board Members, Margaret Bromberg, Mindy Cantor, Phyllis Silver

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TEMPLE ADAS ISRAEL

Elizabeth Street & Atlantic Avenue

Sag Harbor, NY 11963

631-725-0904

e-mail: adasisrael11963@optonline.net

website: www.templeadasisrael.org

DECEMBER, 2008 ----KISLEV 5769

BEYOND THE HIGH HOLY DAYS...

Reported by Margaret Bromberg...

The High Holidays and Fall Festivals at Temple Adas Israel this year were spiritually fulfilling for all who participated; a true reflection of our caring community. I use the word "participated" with intent, for it seemed as if all who attended were involved and contributed to make the Holiday celebrations meaningful. A big THANK YOU to our ushers; to those whose made appeals from the Bima and accepted various responsibilities associated with worship services; and to the numerous "behind the scenes" members of our Congregation.

Thanks also to Gail Gambino for her diligence in creating and managing our name tags and for her ongoing nurturing of the Rosh Chodesh group; to Myra Peskowitz, along with Ann Silver and Sue Schneider for their attention to members "new" and "old" ; to Leda Goldsmith for continuing to be the Communications arm of the Temple and to everyone else in the congregation who has lent a hand in any way.

We moved directly from Simchat Torah to weekly Shabbat Services with lay-leaders as our guides. Each of our lay-leaders brings a different approach to Friday evening services, but the gratification of being together to welcome Shabbat has been expressed by all. We will continue with one or two lay-led services each month through April. Other elements of our Shabbat observances include: a once-a-month week-end with Student Cantor Donna Mashadi as our prayer leader and teacher and a once-a- month at-home Shabbat Service and Pot Luck meal.

In addition to Friday evening Shabbat Services, there have been a number of special events: the Interfaith "not just books" Book Fair on November 16 and the annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Prayer Service on November 23, hosted this year by Cormaria Retreat Center on the waterfront in Sag Harbor, just a "stone’s throw" from the site of our Tashlich observance. The Hebrew Crash Course on December 7, is fully subscribed and we look forward to our Chanukah Anticipation Celebration on December 13 at 5 PM. (Homemade latkes are featured and we are looking for latke makers, so please let us know if you can make a batch!)

As we move into Winter, we will continue this format, making it possible for those of us who are lucky enough to be in the area year round to come together to welcome Shabbat, to study with the Cantor and to celebrate TuB’Shevat on February 8 and Purim on March 8.

Before you know it, Pesach will be here. We plan a Passover Workshop for all on April 5 and you may mark your calendars for our Second Seder on April 9, 2009. Everyone’s participation is needed to sustain our Congregation. We welcome your ideas and suggestions as well as contributions of your time and energy.

For more details please check the Temple website: www.templeadasisrael.org

FROM RABBI LEON A. MORRIS... (Dec.08)

Two of the most bandied about words of this past election cycle were "hope" and "change." Initially, these words were the distinctive and defining vocabulary of President-Elect Barack Obama. "Change we can believe in". "The audacity of hope". The politics of hope. But toward the end of his campaign, Senator McCain and his advisors came to understand the appeal of such terms and adapted them to their own campaign strategy. "Change we can believe in" became "For the change we need."

It's really quite remarkable that the desire for change and the theme of hope were so strongly expressed on the left as well as the right. The fact that these campaigns relied on the appeal of such words to the ears of the average American voter is significant, and may itself be a sign of hope.

Our culture has generally equated hope with naivete, inexperience, immaturity and youth. We have usually looked upon calls for change with a certain degree of cynicism. This isn't an approach that grew out of the last century. It's as old as Greek philosophy. Aristotle wrote: "The young have exalted notions, because they have not been humbled by life or learned its necessary limitations; moreover, their hopeful disposition makes them think themselves equal to great things—and that means having exalted notions. They would always rather do noble deeds than useful ones: Their lives are regulated more by moral feeling than by reasoning...."

But quite early on, Judaism offered a different message, an alternative world view from Greek philosophy. A philosophy of hope. Read these beautiful words of Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, chief rabbi of Britain:

"Western civilization is the product of two cultures: ancient Greece and ancient Israel. The Greeks believed in fate: the future is determined by the past. Jews believed in freedom: there is no 'evil decree' that cannot be averted. The Greeks gave the world the concept of tragedy. Jews gave it the idea of hope. The whole of Judaism – though it would take a book to show it – is a set of laws and narratives designed to create in people, families, communities and a nation, habits that defeat despair. Judaism is the voice of hope in the conversation of mankind."

That voice of hope is expressed in ways both explicit and subtle. It's such an ingrained part of our tradition that many of us might not even notice it's there. When Moses asks God to reveal His name at the burning bush so that he can tell the people who sent him, God's response is "Ehyeh asher ehyeh," usually translated as "I am what I am." But that is erroneous. The Hebrew is future tense – I will be what I will be. Ours is a God whose very name points us toward the future. What is truly divine is not what is, but rather what can be.

But that's just one story in the Torah. Think of the way the entire Torah is written. Its entire narrative is preoccupied with entering the land of Israel. The land is promised to Abraham toward the beginning of the book of Genesis, and by the Torah's conclusion, the people of Israel still remain just outside the land. Moses dies on the other side of the Jordan. The rest of the Hebrew Bible concludes similarly. The Takakh, the Hebrew Bible, concludes with the book called II Chronicles. It ends with the Persian King Cyrus allowing Jews to return to the land of Israel to rebuild their Temple and re-establish a Jewish nation. The final word in the Hebrew is V'ya'al – and let him go up. Here again, the narrative is not about where they are, but about where they will be. The entire Bible is a story whose conclusion has yet to unfold.

Or, as Harold Fisch has written, the Jewish narrative is "the unappeased memory of a future still to be fulfilled." The "secret of the Jews," Thomas Cahill explains, "is that Jews broke with conventional notions of cyclical time, that were based on unbreakable repetition, and invented the concept of linear time – that we change, progress, that there is a past and a future, that there is a beginning and end to history".

Jewish thought helped the world emerge from its global repetition compulsion. Our conception of time signaled that change and transformation are possible.

Hope is the ultimate religious emotion. It is the basis of faith. We sometimes confuse "faith" for things of certainty. We assume that someone with faith has little or no doubt. But faith is as much about what we believe NEEDS to be true, as it is about what we actually KNOW to be true. Hope is a necessity for life in this world.

The messianic impulse in Judaism – the belief in a messiah who has yet to arrive – is the most concrete symbol that the world can be different, that it will be different, that we can be different, and that life can be different than we know it.

But our commitment to hope is not empty. Our belief that change is possible is not without precedent. It's hard to have lived during the past 60 years without seeing that hopes can be realized and that almost unimaginable change can take place.

The establishment of a Jewish state after 2,000 years of exile. Landing a man on the moon. The fall of the Berlin wall. The end of Apartheid in South Africa. An African-American elected President of the United States

This year we have so many hopes. Our personal hopes and dreams, for ourselves and for our families. We express our people's hopes for peace, for unity, for fulfilling our potential and living out our ideals. We express theological hopes, that we will be united as a single family of humanity, and that goodness will overcome evil.

Let us use this year to reconnect to the impulse for hope, to restore our belief in change; to move beyond what is, and to dream about what might be.

Adapted by Rabbi Morris from his Erev Rosh Hashanah sermon.

THANKS TO...

Rona Klopman not only for arranging and teaching the one-day Hebrew Crash Course on December 7, from 9:30-3:30 sponsored by the National Jewish Outreach Program, but also for providing lunch for the students as well.

MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT NEAL FAGIN...(Dec.08)

The glow of the Holidays and festivals is receding; but the Temple is still shining. We have truly become a year round shul. Our many activities are described throughout this publication. We are providing a Jewish education to the children of our community as well as Shabbat services and events for adults all winter. Our dues only pay for about half of our budget and we therefore must count on contributions to make up the difference. With economic conditions as they are now, the donations we have received this year are greatly diminished. If each of you reached out to one friend, and that friend joined the Temple, it would contribute greatly to our finances. Following is an idea I ask you to read about, and participate in, if appropriate for you.

"ECONOMIC BAILOUT PLAN ALLOWS FOR TAX FREE IRA DISTRIBUTIONS TO CHARITIES." As you may have heard, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, the historic $700 billion bailout plan, was recently approved. This plan includes important provisions related to charitable giving, similar to the Pension Protection Act of 2006.

If you are 70 ½ or older, you can instruct your IRA Trustee to distribute funds directly to Temple Adas Israel FOR TAX YEARS 2008-2009. You will not have to report the withdrawal as income for tax purposes. This contribution will count toward your mandatory withdrawal amount.

This is a wonderful opportunity for you to make a current donation, large or small, to Temple Adas Israel.

Please join us during this winter for one of our activities. Remember J.P.G! Join, Participate and (find a way to) Give!

Hope to see you soon!

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS... (Dec.08)
Reported by MYRA PESKOWITZ

The following new members, who joined from June 2007 to October 2008, were warmly welcomed at a special Sukkot Shabbat luncheon on October 18th.

Jerry & Sheila Adelberg; Bob, Sharon and Jackson Bakes; Gerard and Mal Daffner; Bev Dash & Debra Lobel; Jill Danis & Leonard Fichtelberg; Gerard Doyle &Julia Cachere, Adin and Elia; Samuel Eber; Nathaniel and Ana Egosi; Andrew & Sandy Farkas; Steve Frankel and Debbie Rudoy; Irwin & Alma Hyman; Robert & Susan Kouffman; Bill Liebowitz & Alexandria Baer, Sam and Tess; Susan & Jerrold Mann; Arnold & Regina Mittler; Eileen Moskowitz and Mariah; Rhonda & Mitchell Rachlin; Ann & Alan Richer; Carleton, Diane & Ali Schade; Sue & Stanley Schneider; Wendy Serkin, Arnold & Toby Spitz; Meg Taylor; Ira & Barbara Trachtenberg; Lester & Harriet Yassky and Alan & Marilyn Zaretsky.

IN MEMORIAM...Sincere condolences to Marilyn Goldberg Rothbart and Michael Rothbart and their families on the death of Marilyn’s mother, Georgette Huberman.

HISTORIC NOTES FROM DAVE LEE... (Dec.08)

Over the years, in an effort to provide the East End Jews with a shul where they would feel comfortable, TAI changed its non-affiliated status to membership in the Reform Movement’s Union of American Hebrew Congregations...now Union for Reform Judaism.

Reform innovations included the giving of aliyahs to female congregants, and allowing them to sit with the men in the sanctuary. Vera Simms, a long time member– ( with her late husband, Dr. Harold Simms) was given the first aliyah. Years later, another of our members, Betty Friedan, was very happy with this practice. Vera is still a dues paying member of TAI and though we haven’t seen her in many years we wish her well.

Our entrance was originally at the back of the building, up a hard to maneuver stairway...and an even harder staircase to the women’s balcony. In the early days many female members had trouble with the stairs and young, strong men such as Don Katz and myself, carried them up on a chair.

We didn’t have a parking lot back then and Atlantic Avenue was a two-way street...on the High Holidays we had a traffic nightmare.

As we became more welcoming, our congregation grew and we thought about expanding. There was an empty lot next door and one day, while fixing a window, I got into a conversation with the owner. I told him of our expansion plans and made an offer of $1500.00 for his lot. We shook hands on the deal. He was killed soon after our agreement –but he had told his wife of our arrangement. After the funeral I got a call from her saying she would honor his $1500.00 commitment.

Now, many, many years later we have once again outgrown our facilities. Our Hebrew School has gone far beyond what it was when my late wife Vera and I were the teachers. Again, we are thinking of expanding. Look for more TAI history in the next issue.

 

PROGRAM COMMITTEE NOTES... (Dec.08)

Sandy Slipp, Program Chairperson, reports that her Committee has met and discussed a variety of ideas for the 2009 "high" season. There was a general agreement that the 2008 programs were successful and that in addition to formal events we should continue with the diverse Friday evening services that have included speakers, dinners, celebrations and child-centered programs.

One of the proposals for 2009 was a Film Festival at Bay Street Theater; the logistics are being explored. One set date is April 26th at 4 PM for a film about Israel narrated by Itzhak Perlman.

Another program idea includes two lectures by Richard Gambino -one on Spinoza, the other on Martin Buber that would be offered one Sunday morning in May and another in June.

The Committee is looking into musical events, more formal Saturday morning services alternating with Torah study; two Shabbat dinners and our Annual Members’ Cocktail party on June 28th.

It is one thing to talk about something; it is another to do it. Doing is what gives our school its unique character. This fall our children are learning to do many things: to help lead services: think about and prepare food for our tables: raise money so that others may eat: decorate beautiful Challah covers for their own families: care for younger children at school. And they manage all of this in just the two and a half hours per week we are in class! Not to mention ongoing Hebrew lessons.

This year two post B’nei Mitzvah students are teaching: WuQing Hipsh and Kye Vatash, along with our great teachers Diane Schifman, Sue Lichtenstein and a dedicated corps of parent volunteers. As you read this our November 16 Interfaith Book Fair will have taken place...given the great press it received, our hopes for success were high. This Fair had the potential of adding more wonderful books to the libraries of our students, our friends from the First Presbyterian Church and our Temple. Thanks to all: Linda Mintz, Faith Diskin, Joan Litsky, Leda Goldsmith, Maryann Calendrille at Canio’s, and Carol Thomason and the Whaler’s Church for making this event a reality.

Our B’nei Mitzvah students have undertaken a lovely project this year. They are raising money for an emergency lunch program at the CDCH Charter School. During this time of great economic hardship for some, several children routinely come to school without breakfast or lunch. Our students’ fund-raising will supply sandwich staples, milk, fruit and occasional treats for those students. Kol HaKavod to Ali, Sydney, Adin, and Baxter, their parents and Morah Sue.

On December 13, at 5 PM we will celebrate Hanukkah early, with songs, skits and games…and in January at a very special Shabbat we will celebrate with the animals in our lives, marking our co-existence with all living things, and our deep obligation to all of God’s creation. Also in January we will inaugurate two new programs in our family education continuum: ChevraMusic, an early childhood Jewish music program, and the Mother’s Circle, a support and educational program for non-Jewish women raising Jewish children. We are very excited about these proven and research-backed programs.

May all of our school and congregational community have a warm and safe winter!

Leah Oppenheimer, Director

P.S. We are happy to report that the Book Fair was a success and we’ll be able to supply food for the CDCH Charter school for about 3 months.

UNATANEH TOKEF...by JOANNA LEE

When Rabbi Morris asked me to comment on the Unataneh Tokef I agreed before I stopped to think...what can I say? Can I describe the fear and awe that come over me when I hear the words On Rosh Hashanah it is written, On Yom Kippur it is sealed? Can I talk about the sheer dread I felt the first time I heard these words and what followed -and realized that meant ME!

I am not a Jew of long standing, although I was born a Jew to Jewish parents, but I had never heard those ominous words. Perhaps I was in a temple and they were chanted –but they were not for me, or so I thought. Then I married into this congregation and started to listen.

"Oh yes, God intoned-– these words, this warning is for you. How could you doubt it??!" And God went on: "I’m giving you the benefit of the doubt. You’ve got ten days to tell me ‘Why Not’". Ten days to explain, to justify my life? Essentially, ten days to review the previous decades, to run my past by a really savvy God who has heard it all.

So I wrote out my life in 2 long columns, the Good Things and the Not So Good Things.

How to evaluate the lists? What was God looking for? I knew some really bad guys who lived through decades of lying, stealing, chicanery, bad stuff by anyone’s standard.

How are they feeling today as they tote up both columns? Then suddenly I knew what God wanted of me and of all of us. First of all, he wants us to figure out what we’ve

done this year that is praiseworthy and blameworthy. He wants us to take an active role in evaluating ourselves, to get in the game. And then I figure, he wants us to take on the pain of repentance as if it really makes a difference – as if we could really do something about our past actions. And then – I think he wants us to ask ourselves some simple questions like:

What did I do this past year that really matters? How am I going to define "significance" this year and make my life one of significance? How am I going to help repair wrongs, and act on my deepest convictions and ideals?

And finally, I think God would be proud to know that we are in the act of searching our hearts, of identifying our deepest values and of trying to live accordingly.

I think he would reward us for that.

Delivered on Rosh Hashanah morning September 30, 2008

WELCOME...

Cynthia and Seth Hemley welcomed Sabrina Bryce into their family on September 11, 2008. Loving grandparents are Susan and Richard Hemley. Mazel Tov to all!

ROSH CHODESH MEETING...The next Rosh Chodesh meeting will be held Sunday December 28th at the home of Gail Gambino. Call Gail at 631-725-2943 for details.
 

Personnel

RABBI LEON MORRIS: 212-507-9581

STUDENT CANTOR: DONNA MASHADI P

ADMINISTRATOR: MARGARET BROMBERG

PRESIDENT: NEAL FAGIN: 631-835-2902

VICE PRESIDENT: ALAN LEAVITT:

<>

SECRETARY: David J. Lee: 631-725-0429

TREASURER: HOWARD CHWATSKY

HowardChwatsky@aol.com

HEBREW SCHOOL DIRECTOR: LEAH OPPENHEIMER -631-725-9456

CHRONICLES EDITOR: LEDA C. GOLDSMITH

BOARD MEMBERS: Don Doctorow, James Dwoskin, Barbara Freedman, Amy Fischman, Jonathan Nash Glynn, Leda C. Goldsmith, Janet Grossman, Donald Katz, Howard Maisel, Leah Oppenheimer, Sandy Slipp. Honorary Board Member: Sylvia Lieberman. Associate Board Members, Margaret Bromberg, Mindy Cantor, Phyllis Silver

TEMPLE ADAS ISRAEL

Elizabeth Street & Atlantic Avenue

Sag Harbor, NY 11963

631-725-0904

e-mail: adasisrael11963@optonline.net

website: <www.templeadasisrael.org>

SEPTEMBER 2008 ... ELUL 5768

WELCOME TAMIR MICAH!!!

               Tamir Micah Berkowitz-Morris was welcomed into the world on August 4th by his loving and ecstatic parents, Dasee and Leon. He weighed in at 7 lbs, 7 oz. and was 20.5 inches long, with just a touch of dark hair.

               On August 11, he was named Tamir following the Ashkenazi tradition, in memory of his great grandmother Tillie Morris and Micah, in the Sephardic tradition, in honor of his grandmother, Mozelle Berkowitz.   The beautiful Brit Milah ceremony combining both Ashkenazic and Sephardic prayer and song was held in the magnificent Judaica Museum at Temple Emanu-el in Manhattan. 

               Today’s technical miracles allowed this lovely event to be beamed via the internet to Rabbi Leon’s parents in Pennsylvania, who were unable to attend; and to Dasee’s grandmother and other family members in Israel.TAI congregants eagerly awaited this most “blessed event” and adorable little Tamir will be loved and cherished by all.

HIGH HOLIDAY SCHEDULE...

            We begin to get into the mood and prepare for the High Holidays with Selichot, the Saturday evening before Rosh Hashanah. On 9/20 at 9 PM Board Member Jonathan Glynn will host a Dessert reception at his home, 11 William Street. This will be followed by a 10 PM service at the Temple, a block away.

Mon. 9/29...8PM  Erev Rosh Hashanah 

Tues. 9/30...10AM  Rosh Hashanah Morning Service...Followed by Outdoor Kiddush

       3PM  Family Program...for school age children, with Rabbi Morris

For children ages 0-5 with Leah Oppenheimer

Apples and honey for all

                         4:15PM Tashlich at Havens beach

Wed.10/1... 10AM Rosh Hashanah morning service, second day.

Wed. 10/8...6PM...Fast begins

8PM...Kol Nidre/Yom Kippur Evening Service    

MESSAGE FROM RABBI LEON MORRIS...September 08

In the traditional liturgy of Yom Kippur, the Machzor (High Holiday prayer book) includes a prayer for the new year that is meant to be a parallel to the prayer that the high Priest offered when emerging alive from the Holy of Holies after performing the elaborate Yom Kippur rituals. In the Sephardic rites, this is the prayer:

               May it be Your will,

               Adonai, our God, God of our forefathers

               that it may be this

               year coming upon us

               and upon Your entire people Israel

In any place they might be,

a year of light, a year of blessing,

               a year of joy, a year of delight,

a year of grandeur, a year of good assemblies,

               a year of song, a year of gladness,

               a year of goodness.

               A year of dew and rainfall for blessing,

               a year of salvation, a year of sustenance,

               a year of study, a year of tranquility,

               a year of consolation, a year of merriment,

a year of exultation, a year of redemption,

               a year of rejoicing,  a year of pride,

               a year of the ingathering of the exiles,

               a year of acceptance of prayers,

               a year of favor, a year of peace,

               a year of contentment,

a year in which You will lead us proudly to our land,

a year in which You will lead nations to be  ruled by us

               a year [in which]

               You will inscribe us for a good life

               a year [in which]

Your people, the House of Israel, will not need each other for their livelihood –nor any other nation

You will withhold [any] plague or ruin upon us,

and from upon your people, the House of Israel, a year [in which]

no woman shall lose the offspring of her womb.

This prayer, an alphabetic acrostic in Hebrew, is

modeled after a shorter Talmudic prayer and captures the hopes and dreams of Jews who lived in medieval times when the Machzor was compiled. As we prepare for our 21st century (58th century, actually) New Year, for what do we hope and pray in this new year?  What are the A, B, C’s of our dreams for ourselves and our families, for the Jewish people and for the world?                         

A year of valuing the unique gifts of those who surround us;

A year in which we are more fully present for those we love;

A year in which we grow in our capacity to love;

A year of appreciating and not denigrating difference;

A year of visionary leadership;

A year of breakthroughs in the search for peace between Israelis and Palestinians.

And so much more...

               The High Holidays require preparation in the month before we gather for Rosh Hashanah. Let each of us devote ourselves to beginning to write our own “prayer” for the New Year; to begin to discover what it is we will strive for in the year ahead

               My wife, Dasee and our son Tamir, join me in wishing you and your loved ones a shana tova tikateivu.           

High Holiday Schedule, cont...

Thurs. 10/9...10AM...Yom Kippur Morning Services

                      1 PM... Text Study

                      2PM... Family Service

                      3PM...Mincha (Afternoon Service)

                      5:15 PM... Yizkor(Memorial Service)

                      6 PM...Neilah (Concluding Service)

                      7PM...Final Shofar Blast...we ask all children to wear white and join us on the bima.

Break the Fast follows. Everyone is invited to join us.

                              FALL FESTIVALS

Mon. 10/13: First evening of SUKKOT

                 4:30PM...Decorate Sukkah

                 5:30... Pizza in the Hut

                 6PM...Sukkot Evening Services

Fri. 10/17 6 PM... Early Shabbat Sukkot Service

Sat.10/18 10:30 AM...Shabbat Sukkot Morning Service with special blessing to honor new members.

12 noon Pot Luck Lunch honoring new members.

Mon. 10/20  6:30 PM ...Shemini Atzeret/Simchat Torah Evening Service and Celebration...Come dance with the Torah scrolls and each other!

Tues. 10/21 10:30 AM ...Shemini Atzeret/Simchat Torah Morning Service

YOM KIPPUR ADVISORY...

               Many Temples and synagogues are suggesting that members who are taking medications check with their doctors before fasting on Yom Kippur.  Here at TAI we have had members faint due to lack of food and water after taking required medications -but not eating and drinking as needed. Health is of primary importance and if fasting is not advisable for you ...it is wise to heed the warning.

Rabbi Morris will gladly speak to anyone with specific concerns or questions..

MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT, NEAL FAGIN..   

               Like Paul Revere shouted...the holidays are coming!!! Right on time this year, on the 1st of Tishri!       

               We would like to have as many members as possible participate in our services.  If you would like to take part, please email me, or Howard Chwatsky (addresses on the last page of this edition) and we will do our best to give you a “role”.

               As in the past, seating in the Sanctuary is reserved for members only. If you come with other family members, or friends and would like to sit with them, please take seats in the first rows of the annex.

               This past summer has been a wonderful experience at TAI. So many services and events have evoked warm and wonderful feelings.  Can you imagine...we had two adult Bat Mitzvahs, Ann Silver and Joan Litsky, in addition to the traditional 13 year olds’ celebrations.  We have truly become a year round synagogue with something for everyone throughout the year.  I’d like to particularly  thank those who sponsored or helped bring us programming including Barbara Freedman, Howard Maisel, Ann Chwatsky and Leda Goldsmith; and those who organized (and cooked) Shabbat Dinner, Myra Peskowitz and Andrea Fagin; as well as Allan Silver who led our Book Discussion group.

               It would be wonderful if each of you reached out and encouraged one person or family to join our Temple.  This could be one of your Holiday pledges.

               I am looking forward to greeting you all during the Holidays.  Shana Tova to everyone!             

ANNUAL MEETING...

               The Annual meeting was held August 3, 2008. President Neal Fagin was re-elected and Alan Leavitt, formerly a member of the Board was elevated to Vice President, with the resignation of Jeffrey Britz. Howard Chwatsky and David Lee were re-elected to their respective posts of Treasurer and Secretary.  

               James Dwoskin, a Brooklyn native who moved to Sag Harbor with his family five years ago, was elected to fill the vacant spot on the Board. His son was a Bar Mitzvah at TAI last year and his daughter attends the Hebrew School. He sells investment real estate all over the country. Re-elected Board members were Donald Doctorow, Jonathan Nash Glynn, Janet Grossman, Leah Oppenheimer and Sandy Slipp.

               Membership chairperson Myra Peskowitz reported an increase in membership this year, most likely related to the number of new permanent residents in the area. Treasurer Howard Chwatsky reported on the Financial state of TAI which he pronounced was “in good shape”.              

HEBREW SCHOOL NEWS from LEAH OPPENHEIMER, DIRECTOR

               I believe that Hebrew schools are mini-cultures that both mimic the formation of the larger Jewish culture and push its boundaries just a bit farther. A Hebrew school succeeds if students leave feeling that Beit Midrash (house of learning) is a kind of home they can return to and feel connected. Our students have proven this...our B’nei Mitzvot return and volunteer at the synagogue and the school. One is now at a SUNY college majoring in religious studies. 

               Our teaching method is based on loving kindness. Every child is a treasure and each student’s instructional plan is individualized according to his/her own ability. Our goal is to develop in the students a sense of Jewish time and behavior, relating every day to liturgy, history and Torah. Our growing Hebrew School will be very busy this fall. During the Holiday season we will be focusing on connecting the wonders of God’s creation and the interconnectedness of life. During the winter, spring and fall we will explore our place in God’s creation and what we have to do to fulfill our part in God’s plan.

               We will have a number of Bar and Bat Mitzvahs this year; among them are Sidney Katz, daughter of Jayne and Hank Katz (granddaughter of Gert and Don Katz); Adin Doyle, son of Gerard Doyle and Julia Cachere; Baxter Parcher, son of Jolie Parcher; Ali Schade, daughter of Diane and Carleton Schade and Rebecca Kurz Snyder, daughter of Orin and Susan Kurz Snyder. These students and their parents will be the first to participate in our enhanced B’nai Mitzvah curriculum, newly revised by Rabbi Morris, Dasee Berkowitz, Sue Lichtenstein and me.

            On Sunday, September 21st at 10 AM we will go apple picking at the Halsey Farm Apple Orchard in Water Mill. Families can meet us there -or at Temple if a child needs a ride.

               I will also be expanding some of our school related activities, including programs for young children and the non-Jewish parents of interfaith families. Stay tuned for further information on these as the school year progresses.

GET WELL SOON... we wish a refuah sheleima to Sylvia Lieberman, Georgette Huberman, mother of member Marilyn Goldberg Rothbart; Jean Gottfried, mother of member Fran Gottfreid and Rachel Dashevsky, niece of member Bev Dash.

MORE BABY NEWS... Alexa Corrine Cole was born on August 13 to Dr. David and Amanda Cole. Amanda is the daughter of  Jeffrey and Sheila Britz

SEPTEMBER BAR/BAT MITZVAHS...

               Alexander Hanson Lapin Protell son of Ruth Lapin and David Protelll celebrated on September 13. Alex is a sensitive boy, kind to everyone, a serious student with a sense of humor; a Little League baseball star and fantastic dancer.

               Gillian Chapman Blutt, daughter of Margo and Mitchell Blutt celebrates on September 20. She is an 8th grader at Brearley. A music lover, she sings with bands and organized a large tag sale for her Tzedakah project, the proceeds of which will be donated to “Little Kids Rock”, a children’s charity.

REPORT FROM MARGARET BROMBERG, ADMINISTRATOR...     

               Our efforts to communicate more effectively with our Congregation really seem to be paying off. The weekly emails initiated last year by Bonnie Mahoney have been well received; hopefully this will become a two-way street. At our “Town Meeting” in August we spoke of the desire to be a “caring community” in response to both our joys and our sorrows.  We welcomed Tamir Micah Berkowitz-Morris with an Oneg Shabbat sponsored by Neal Fagin and Howard Chwatsky. The Silver, Litsky, Blutt and Lapin-Protell families have shared their Bar and Bat Mitzvah Simchas this way, and we celebrated a 50th anniversary with Bev Dash and Debra Lobel on September 5, 2008. One of the observations made at the “Town Meeting” was that we sometimes question whether the “community” wants to know about us...WE DO!  We love celebrating birthdays, new homes, graduations, safe returns from successful travels...any excuse to celebrate will be just fine!  We also want to be available when help is needed and this is part of the two-way street. A call or email to the Temple letting us know about an illness or loss will enable us to respond in an appropriate and caring way.

               Our Membership Chairperson, Myra Peskowitz is sending Membership Cards to all paid members. These will be helpful in facilitating High Holiday seating. If you’ve paid your dues, but haven’t received your card, please let us know. If you haven’t paid yet...PLEASE DO!

               Even though our format changes after the Fall Festivals, our Community remains vibrant. This year, student Cantor Donna Mashadi will be with us one weekend each month and we will have special events during each of her visits...in November  an interfaith gathering; at Chanukah, Tu B’Shevat,

Purim and in preparation for Passover (when we have our Traditional 2nd Seder. Monthly at-home services and Pot Luck dinners will continue to provide the warmth of extended family throughout the colder seasons.

               On a “personal” note, in addition to the gratification of growing Congregational relationships, my relationship with our Rakefet computer program continues to evolve, sometimes it’s love and joy...sometimes it’s NOT...but always we need your response. Another two way street...if we are not addressing you correctly, or you get a bill which doesn’t seem right – or for any other reason, please be in touch so that our data base may approach 100% accuracy.

NEWS NOTES...Mazel Tov to Board Member Howard Maisel,  whose daughter Jennifer Maisel’s new play, THERE OR HERE premiered off off Broadway September 6 and will run until 9/28 at the 14th Street Y Theater, 344 E. 14th Street.

RABBI MORRIS has a letter in the September issue of Commentary Magazine and an article in the September issue of Sh’ma: A Journal of Responsibility.

DAVE LEE’S MEMORIES...

Some memories of Temple Adas Israel’s activities from 1948, when I joined the congregation:

               At our Annual Meeting a few weeks ago we discussed the need to expand  in order to provide better classrooms for our Hebrew School; more comfortable areas for social activities; and office space to accommodate our ever growing TAI family. During that discussion my mind drifted back over 50 years.

               Our shul had a coal furnace at that time and it was far from adequate for the job it had to do. A local plumbing and heating firm in Sag Harbor was very good to us and allowed us to pay for a new oil fired furnace over a period of time. That was our first move into the 20th Century– albeit when it was halfway through. As I recall, it was about 1950.    

               From then on, we were on a roll. After the High Holidays we tried to collect on the Aliyahs we had auctioned off, but were very disappointed to discover most of our congregation were refugees from all over Europe and had no money. Many of our young people moved away to take advantage of G.I. Bill opportunities.

               At that time there were a few local families left and together we started a plan to rehab our beautiful building, which was, at that time, over 50 years old.

               The Rosenstein, Katz, Matles, Kelman and Lee families, together with the Spitzers and Mayers from Bridgehampton began a fund raising effort. David Spitzer and Fred Mayer loaned us a large potato storage building in which we ran a dance, which was quite successful...though a bit dusty.  

               We used the money to remove the center bima; replace the regular bima area and install new lighting. We also stabilized the building which had settled (I’m sure you have noticed the tie-rods across the sanctuary).

               In later Chronicles I’ll take you through more of what we did to assure that TAI was here when most of you came into our “family”.

               Meanwhile, best wishes for a very happy, healthy and prosperous 5769!

PROGRAM COMMITTEE NOTES...

               While the actually planning of the 2009 programs has not begun, Program Chairperson, Sandy Slipp asks that members who have ideas for specific programs, or would like to suggest  a different type of programing please email her  < 

TAI had several successful and well attended programs this year including the touching film,

“Praying With Lior”; Prof. Ralph Buultjens; our former cantor, Dan Singer brought us Ragtime Sings the Jews; Author Lucette Lagnado spoke to a full house when she discussed her family memoir, The Man In The White Sharkskin Suit, and Rabbi Joy Levitt, Executive Director of the Manhattan JCC spoke on Daramasala and Jerusalem...the Diapora Experience.  With your help we can have another great season next year.

WOMEN’S ROSH CHODESH NEWS...

               The next meeting of the Rosh Chodesh monthly women’s discussion group will be Sunday September 28 at  5PM at the home of Gail Gambino,33 Seely Lane, SH. The group, facilitated by Dasee Berkowitz and Gail will continue to plan for ongoing monthly meetings throughout the winter.

               Coinciding with the High Holidays, the discussion on September 28 will focus on the meaning of Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and Succot in our daily lives. If time permits, the group may investigate the work of Dr. Harriet Goldhor Lerner on “The Dance of Intimacy” and Selfhood as it relates to this time of reflection and repentance.

               Gail writes :”Dasee has brought us a wonderful gift in Rosh Chodesh; an opportunity to gather each month to study, explore ideas together, expand our knowledge and get to know each other. We offer light refreshments, laughter, learning and good company. We welcome all of the women in the Congregation and invite them all to join us.”        

FOR MEN ONLY...

 Sunday October 5th at 10:30AM, prepare for Yom Kippur with traditional ritual immersion. With the bay as our Mikveh, symbolically wash away regrets and mistakes of the past year and emerge as the new person you hope to be in the new year. The gathering will start with some insights into Yom Kippur with Rabbi Morris, at his home,133 Bay Street and will continue at Havens Beach. Bring a swimsuit and towel. For questions and to RSVP, call Rabbi Morris at 917-304-5089.

*************************************************************

PERSONNEL

RABBI LEON A. MORRIS: 212-508-9581

 

STUDENT CANTOR:DONNA MASHADI:

primadonna55@yahoo.com

 

ADMINISTRATOR: MARGARET BROMBERG

 

PRESIDENT: NEAL FAGIN: 631-825-2902

 

VICE PRESIDENT: ALAN LEAVITT

 

SECRETARY: David J. Lee: 631-725-0429

 

TREASURER: HOWARD CHWATSKY

HowardChwatsky

 

HEBREW SCHOOL DIRECTOR: LEAH OPPENHEIMER

-631-725-9456

 

CHRONICLES EDITOR: LEDA C. GOLDSMITH

BOARD MEMBERS: Don Doctorow, James Dwoskin, Barbara Freedman, Amy Fischman, Jonathan Nash Glynn, Leda Goldsmith, Janet Grossman, Donald Katz, Howard Maisel, Leah Oppenheimer, Sandy Slipp. Honorary Board Member: Sylvia Lieberman. Associate Board Members:

Margaret Bromberg, Mindy Cantor, Phyllis Silver

 TEMPLE ADAS ISRAEL

Elizabeth Street & Atlantic Avenue

Sag Harbor, NY 11963

631-725-0904 —www.templeadasisrael.org

email <>

JULY 2008......................................TAMUZ 5768

UPCOMING EVENTS...

            TAI’s Annual Congregational Meeting will be on Sunday August 3rd at 10:30 am at the Temple.  Please come to learn the “State of the Temple”; vote for the 2008-2009 slate of officers and Board members and contribute your thoughts. The Report of the Nominating Committee, chaired by Myra Peskowitz, along with Ann Chwatsky, is elsewhere in this issue.

            There will be a Shabbat Dinner on July 18 following a Shabbat Service at 7 pm, during which Rabbi Morris will discuss “What Can It Mean To Be  A Reform Jew Today?”  Cost of the dinner is $18 per person; please make reservations by calling Andrea Fagin at 631-725-4338 or emailing <Captain Fagin @aol.com>

            On Saturday morning July 26, at 10:30 am, Ann Silver will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah. See her story elsewhere in this issue.

            On Sunday July 27 at 5pm, we will happily welcome back our former Cantor, Daniel Singer and his side-kick, pianist Alexander Sandor, who will regale us with a rip-roaring program called RAGTIME SINGS THE JEWS.  You all know that Irving Berlin wrote Alexander’s Ragtime Band...but you’ll be surprised to learn about other famous Jewish composers who contributed to this genre, including the noted African American, Willie “The Lion” Smith who also performed as a cantor and George Gershwin.  Dan is now Cantor at Stephen Wise Free Synagogue in Manhattan and has also done some other wonderful things both in his synagogue and outside since he left TAI including the background vocal on the 3 part -6 hour PBS Documentary The Jewish Americans and appearances with the Folksbiene National Yiddish Theater in On Second Avenue and Pirates of Penzance.  He recently served as a cantorial instructor at HUC in Cincinnati where he received accolades for his ability to balance high musical standards with informal learning.  Alex Sandor is a nationally known ragtime and stride pianist who teaches at the U. of Wisconsin. He and Dan were college buddies. This is a MUST SEE program!    Refreshments and a chance to schmooze with Dan and Alex follow the show.

            On Friday August 8, following 8 pm services, Rabbi Joy Levitt, Executive Director of the Manhattan JCC will speak. She was a  pulpit rabbi in New Jersey, and is a former President of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association. She co-authored two books and has written many articles.

-------

MESSAGE FROM RABBI  MORRIS...(July 08)

Dear Friends,

            Our summer is certainly off to a wonderful start! There is a surge of new energy, activity and enthusiasm. Shabbat services have been well attended. The lecture by Prof. Ralph Buultjens was timely and intellectually stimulating. The screening of Praying With Lior and the discussion with the film maker was moving and insightful. Our women’s Rosh Chodesh group has been very well received. Our Shavuot celebrations brought new meaning and joy to the festival. Finally, our Shabbat morning study sessions (alternating between “Torah Study” and “Study of the Prayer Book”) are going strong.

            At any one of these events, the most palpable feeling is that of community. We are growing stronger as a congregation because we are increasingly focusing on issues of building community. On Friday night May 30 we began a series of monthly “town hall meetings” on the theme of community. These grew out of my sermon last Yom Kippur on what it means for us to be a sacred community. How do we shape an environment in which we relate to one another as images of God?  What would make the life of our synagogue qualitatively different from a country club, a place or work or other social setting. What ideas and principles could we begin to articulate that would express a desire for shared ties and connections? How can we provide greater support for one another? How might each member contribute something to our community beyond their financial support? Finally, how might we cultivate a greater sense of chesed -loving-kindness?

            These are some very big questions, indeed. Many of us are beginning to realize that grappling with these questions themselves serves to transform our sense of who we are. At the first “town hall meeting”, members spoke extemporaneously and movingly about how much they value the synagogue and the impact it has on their lives.  For those of us who were there, it was a lovely reminder that we are already well on the road to what we aspire to be.

            I look forward to continuing this discussion with you in the weeks ahead.

Warmly,

            Rabbi Leon A. Morris

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MARGARET BROMBERG WRITES…

            Oneg Shabbat, means joy of the Sabbath or Sabbath delights. It usually refers to our celebratory gathering for refreshments and socializing after Friday evening services.

            On Friday evenings we welcome the Sabbath Bride as part of our Shabbat observance, and after services have concluded,  we continue to celebrate just as we would at a wedding. The lighting of candles and other features of the service help us  separate the work week from the rest and reflection of Shabbat. The meditative aspect  of the service gives way to the celebration just as the solemn ceremony establishing the marriage covenant gives way to the joyous celebration with bride and groom.  Hand washing, Kiddush and “Motzi”, giving thanks for “our daily bread” and the fruit of the vine, precede the partaking of  food,  usually “sweets” but sometimes cheese, fruit and wine …. whatever brings us “delight”. Hopefully it is a time to get to know each other better… to visit while noshing.

            On several recent Friday evenings, members of our Congregation have chosen to enhance our Oneg Shabbat with an acknowledgment of joy in their lives – two wedding anniversaries and a Bar Mitzvah; The Brombergs and the Klopmans celebrated anniversaries, and Rona Klopman,  a birthday; Sam Liebowitz and family, a Bar Mitzvah.  This is a very meaningful way to share special events with the Temple family; we all become celebrants, of Shabbat, and of  meaningful occasions in each other’s lives.

            Sharing the joy of Shabbat doesn’t require a special occasion and I encourage all of our members to participate in Temple life in this way. Please do not hesitate to approach me or send email to   It can be as simple as stating your desire to sponsor an Oneg Shabbat and making a financial contribution (usually $180) to cover the cost. The Temple arranges for food and beverages although members sometimes choose to bring or request “treats” which signify “Celebration” to them.Our special thanks to Rona and Alan Klopman who celebrated their 50th anniversary as noted above, and asked that in lieu of gifts donations be made to TAI.   Rona and Alan, you have some very generous friends!

THANK YOU…

            The larger community also contributes to our well being. Late last fall we needed to repair and/or replace a few of our historical memorial plaques. Since they are all glass, we consulted Romany Kramoris whom many of you know as a Sag Habor gallery owner and the stained glass artist who created TAI’s windows. Romany not only found someone who could do the work, she shipped the plaques to that person and absorbed the costs of both the shipping and repair. We are most grateful for her support.

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IN MEMORIAM... Long time Temple member and supporter Susan Sackner died July 1 after a long battle with cancer. She is survived by her husband, Stanley, daughter Robin, son-in-law Richard, two grandchildren, Daniella and Alyssa, her mother, Cecelia Millman and her brother.

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MESSAGE FROM NEAL FAGIN, PRESIDENT...

            As I write this column, I am thinking about our Annual Cocktail Party where four generations of the Katz family were honored.  You probably don't realize how many of us are involved in Temple activities because of Donald Katz. He sure got me started. He engineered the victory in our only two party election. We all go to, or call Don for his advice or approval on many matters. He may not like this, but he is truly our "elder statesman" !

            While I am on the “probably don't realize it” thought...all of our events and programs have been sponsored by members. We want to thank all of you who have helped. If anyone would like to sponsor a program or an event I can furnish you with a short list. The lines are open.

            On June 13, we had the most fantastic Shabbat. We saw the uplifting film, Praying With Lior, had a wonderful discussion with its director, Ilana Trachtman, then joined Rona and Alan Klopman in celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. We all left the Temple with a glow. If you haven’t come to a Shabbat service recently, please join us soon. Rabbi Morris has planned some very interesting sermons.

            Thank you to the many members who have responded to our dues statements by renewing their memberships immediately. Just as our prayers evoke the time when the Jews were waiting for rain and sun to assure a sustaining and perhaps even plentiful harvest, those of us with responsibility for assuring that our building and congregation are sustained are thankful for our members...you are our rain and sun!

            I am very sorry that Jeffrey Britz has opted not to run again for TAI VP.  The Board, officers and I are all grateful for his past service and support  and hope he will continue to call TAI his spiritual home.

            Enjoy your summer in Sag Harbor...the “un-Hampton”.  I hope to see you all soon!

MAZEL TOV...To Neal and Andrea Fagin on the recent Bat Mitzvah of their granddaughter, Hannah,  daughter of Bruce and Beth Fagin.

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REPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE…

            Officers and Board members  up for re-election this year are: Neal Fagin, President; Jeffrey Britz, Vice President and Board Members Janet Grossman, Sandy Slipp, Jonathan Nash Glynn, Donald Doctorow, Alan Leavitt and Leah Oppenheimer. When they were polled to determine their continuing interest,  Jeffrey Britz was the only one who declined re-nomination. Therefore, the Committee recommends that  Alan Leavitt, who has made important contributions as a Board member, be moved to the Vice President slot. He is a Managing Member of Rossrock LLC, a private equity fund and a Board member of Kingsbrook Jewish Medical Center.  James Dwoskin, who moved to Sag Harbor with his family five years ago from Brooklyn is nominated to fill the Board position.  He runs his own business, ICA Realty Corp. The Dwoskin’s son was a Bar Mitzvah last year; his daughter attends our Hebrew School and his wife, Anne volunteers at the Hebrew School.

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MEMORIAL TO JEAN MENDELSON LEE....

by JOAN BAUM (at Dave Lee’s request)

            On Sunday, May 18th, a glorious, sunny afternoon after days of cold and rain, relatives from far and wide and friends of all ages, denominations and degrees of closeness gathered at Temple Adas Israel to pay tribute to Jean Mendelson Lee, David Lee’s Mom, who died at the age of 105 -- and “two days” --as David playfully pointed out more than once, with pride.  Jean lived the kind of life where each day, incredibly, seemed to yield yet another unexpected witticism or a knowing gesture from her that acknowledged the presence of those who came to visit.  Although a few weeks had elapsed since  Jean had passed away in her sleep on April 4th,  at home in Bayshore, the emotion her leaving elicited from those who rose to speak was moving and impressive.  Dave, the eldest of Jean’s three sons, led off the service, introducing Cantor Rebecca Goren, Jean’s great-granddaughter, who officiated. Alternating between songs and psalm readings in both Hebrew and English, and eulogies from family members, the service was a true memorial – a remembrance of warm and funny things past. Dave and his brothers Bernard and Martin recalled special moments with Jean that reflected her generosity, care for others and sharp humor. Grandchildren and even a great-great grandchild were spontaneously prompted to talk about particular incidents they recalled that spoke to Jean’s unusual sense of self and of others.  A grandson wearing an earring?  Well, no big deal. She survived The Depression and WW II. She could live with an earring.

            The occasion was such that not only did nieces and nephews come from all over the country, but others who knew Jean for fewer years but grew to love her, came to pay their respects, among them Lucillle Parks, who cared for her in her last year.  And those who had never met her but came to honor the memory of a woman who was the mother of one of Temple Adas Israel’s longest standing and most devoted congregants, came to feel at the end of the service that she belonged to them, as well.

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BOOK DISCUSSION...

            Book Club leader Allan Silver suggested  a discussion of Lucette Lagnado’s wonderful memoir, Man In The White Sharksin Suit for August 17 at 5 PM.   Many of you will have heard Ms. Lagnado speak at the Temple on Sunday July 13 at 5 PM.  If anyone is interested in joining this discussion, which will be held at the Silver’s home, please respond to Allan no later than August 3rd at 631-725-0647.  If there is not sufficient response, this tentative date will be cancelled.

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WELCOME DONNA MASHADI...

            On Friday June 23rd our new student cantor, the vivacious Donna Mashadi, joined us for the first time. She was most warmly welcomed and we all look forward to hearing her lovely voice enhance our services throughout the season.

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ANN SILVER...BAT MITZVAH THOUGHTS...

Thirty-nine years ago, my Hebrew school classmate and dear friend, Mona Klein Klapper and I approached our Rabbi in our Orthodox synagogue about our becoming Bat Mitzvot. Since it was not as commonplace back then for girls to become Bat Mitzvot, we agreed with the Rabbi we would become Bat Mitzvot jointly. As discussion with the Rabbi continued, however, there were all these stipulations about our the actual ceremony including not standing on the bimah, not reading from the Torah and not being held on Shabbat. Mona and I decided if we were not to be treated the same as the boys, we would not become Bat Mitzvot. Guess we were feminists even back in our youth!

            Becoming a Bat Mitzvah has been a driving force that I wanted to accomplish at some point in my life, which to this day I still am unable to fully explain nor understand. It has taken much time on a daily basis to study and learn chanting the Torah and Haftarah while managing my overwhelmingly busy life as a Registered Dietitian/Certified Diabetes Educator in private practice, teaching students in clinical settings as an Adjunct Assistant Professor at Suffolk County Community College, professional volunteering, fulfilling family obligations and squeezing in some personal time for exercise, which usually involved listening to my Haftarah on my iPod. 

I always thought if I was to become a Bat Mitzvah it would be of a denomination of 13, which it is for me this summer. This experience has been wonderful and I have a much greater appreciation of the requirements needed to fulfill a Bat Mitzvah. I do have this message for other adults who wish to become, Bar or Bat Mitzvah, yes, it's a lot of work but it's never too late, and the journey provides a deep feeling of fulfillment and accomplishment.

Ed.note: Ann will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah with joy on July 26 at 10:30 AM.

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ROSH CHODESH with DASEE BERKOWITZ…

            We had a very successful first Rosh Chodesh group. With about 12 women from our Adas Israel community in attendance, we explored the theme of “sisterhood” in light of the upcoming holiday of Shavuot. During havuot, the holiday that celebrates the giving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai, we read from the book of Ruth which explores the relationship and commitment between two women, Ruth and her mother in law Naomi. The commitment between these two women becomes a paradigm for the commitment between the Jewish people and the Torah. We learned the story of the book of Ruth and then explored the relationships with women in our lives. We closed the group by speaking about the relationships in our lives that we would like to strengthen and those we would like to repair. In this intimate setting, we enjoyed learning from one another and developing stronger bonds to each other as members of the Adas Israel community.                                                                                

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HEBREW SCHOOL NEWS from LEAH OPPENHEIMER....

            Shavuot was a wonderful holiday for the Hebrew School this year. We started our celebration during the enormous thunderstorm of June 4: so the art, supposed to be on the parking lot was moved inside: but our families did a wonderful job on “sidewalk like” long rolls of paper. Our theme during the counting of the Omer was Peace as a Central Part of Jewish Living: one of our families carried through on this theme by drawing birds in a beautiful nest; another family merged Eastern and Jewish iconography: stay tuned as these will be mounted in a small, temporary exhibit in July.

            We finished our Shavuot celebration by singing songs of peace for the Rabbi and our families: and the children received their achievement certificates. It was a wonderful celebration, demonstrating how the on-going revelation of God’s presence at Sinai still pulls us together in love and care today.

             I want to thank our teachers whose love and care builds a school that children enjoy and treasure. As four students said in their evaluations: “if only we had more time in class.”  Thank you dear teachers, Sue and Diane and Lisa and Tanya. And to WuQing Hipsh who will be a teacher next year and was a  flexible and cheerful madrikah. Kol Hakavod to all. And to Anne Dwoskin and all of the other volunteers who always did more than they were asked, Toddah Rabbah!

            This summer I will be working hard on upgrading and improving the school’s curriculum, and will attend CAJE – the Jewish Educators conference- in August. If anyone has an interest in helping with writing school materials or volunteering their time in other ways for the school, please call me at 631-725-9456. All help and ideas are welcome. The school also desperately needs a copy machinbe. If you want to donate a new or functional used machine, do not hesitate to call.

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GET WELL SOON...

  To our beloved Sylvia Lieberman...who was in the hospital, for pneumonia and other problems, but is now resting comfortable at home, being cared for by her daughter.   The very best wishes from the entire congregation are with you, Sylvia!

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LETTER TO SOUTHAMPTON PRESS...

            “As a Reform rabbi in a neighboring Hampton community, Sag Harbor, I want to publicly support Rabbi Marc Schneier in his proposal to establish an eruv in Westhampton Beach. The fear and intolerance that has been unleashed in the proposal’s wake is unfortunate. At its best, opposition to the eruv seems largely based on ignorance about tradition Sabbath laws and specifically the prohibition against carrying in the public domain. Provided that the eruv is privately funded, there is no violation of the separation of Church and State, a position upheld in the U.S. Courts.

            As a non-Orthodox rabbi, I would be deeply pained if any opposition to the establishment of this eruv came from Reform or Conservative Jews. Our commitment to religious pluralism would urge us to create the kind of diverse communities whose embrace is wide enough to include traditionally observant Jews who cannot carry or push their children in strollers on the Sabbath without an eruv.

            The concept of an eruv is a structure that symbolically turns the public domains into a private dwelling. What the eruv represents is what Westhampton Beach seems to need most urgently –a symbolic string that ties all of its residents together as a single family and reminds them that we all build and share a home.”

Sincerely,

Rabbi Leon A. Morris

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LAST MINUTE NEWS...GREAT PARTY...       

            President Neal Fagin wanted everyone to know what a joyous occasion the congregation celebrated on June 29th at the cocktail party honoring four generations of the Katz family.  Three generations were present...grandparents Gert and Don reminisced about how TAI was when Gert’s mother, Nettie Rosenstein, “made things happen” and “parties were held at Meyers Hall over the Five and Ten.”. Their daughters, son, sons in-law and several grandchildren paid tribute to these wonderful people.   A very special thanks to Susan and Orin Snyder who hosted the beautiful party at their lovely home in Easthampton.

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PERSONNEL

RABBI LEON A. MORRIS: 212-508-9581 - Leon@adultjewishlearning.org

Student Cantor Donna Mashadi -

 ADMINISTRATOR: MARGARET BROMBERG - adasisrael11963@optonline.net

PRESIDENT: NEAL FAGIN -631-825-2902 - CaptainFagin@aol.com

VICE PRESIDENT: Jeffrey Britz 

SECRETARY: David J. Lee -631-725-0429 - Davelee_@yahoo.com

TREASURER: Howard Chwatsky: Howardchwatsky@ aol.com 

HEBREW SCHOOL DIRECTOR: Leah Oppenheimer - 631725-9456 - Loppenhe@optonline.net 

CHRONICLES EDITOR: LEDA C. GOLDSMITH - Leda.gpg@verizon.net

BOARD MEMBERS: Don Doctorow, Barbara Freedman, Amy Fischman, Jonathan Nash Glynn, Leda Goldsmith, Janet Grossman, Donald Katz, Alan Leavitt, Howard Maisel, Leah Oppenheimer, Sandy Slipp.

Honorary Board Member, Sylvia Lieberman.

ASSOCIATE BOARD MEMBERS: Margaret Bromberg, Mindy Cantor, Phyllis Silver.

TEMPLE ADAS ISRAEL

Elizabeth Street & Atlantic Avenue

Sag Harbor, NY 11963

631-725-0904.. www.templeadasisrael.org

e-mail: adasisrael11963@optonline.net

Temple Adas Israel, Elizabeth Street & Atlantic Avenue, Sag Harbor, NY 11963.

Phone 631-725-0904

On the web www.templeadasisrael.org

TEMPLE ADAS ISRAEL
P.O. BOX 1378
Sag Harbor, NY 11963

 

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