July 2020 Tamuz – Av 5780 Volume 104 Number 1

Shabbat ServicesSHABBAT Friday Evening, July 3*

6:05 P.M. – Virtual Kabbalat ShabbatJuly Birthday Shabbat

SHABBAT Saturday Morning, July 4 at 10:30 A.M.Torah Portion “Chukat Balak”

SHABBAT Friday Evening, July 10*6:05 P.M. – Virtual Kabbalat Shabbat

SHABBAT Saturday Morning, July 11 at 10:30 A.M.

Torah Portion “Pinchas”

SHABBAT Friday Evening, July 17*6:05 P.M. – Virtual Kabbalat Shabbat

SHABBAT Saturday Morning, July 18 at 10:30 A.M.Torah Portion “Matot-Masei”

SHABBAT Friday Evening, July 24*6:05 P.M. – Shabbat in your own backyard/green space!

SHABBAT Saturday Morning, July 25 at 10:30 A.M.Torah Portion “Devarim”

Shabbat Chazon

SHABBAT Friday Evening, July 31*6:05 P.M. – Virtual Kabbalat Shabbat

SHABBAT Saturday Morning, August 1 at 10:30 A.M.Torah Portion “Va’etchanan”

Shabbat Nachamu

SHABBAT Friday Evening, August 7*6:05 P.M. – Virtual Kabbalat Shabbat

August Birthday ShabbatSHABBAT Saturday Morning, August 8 at 10:30 A.M.

Torah Portion “Eikev”

*Please note time

LIKRAT SHABBATWe would like to thank Erwin Barrington, Joel Levin, Rainie

Nelson, Jake Nelson, Sue Schneider, Billy Wenger and Jon Shimberg who made a donation in honor of their July birthdays.

We would like to thank Carol Barrington who made a donation in honor of her August birthdays.

Rabbi’s ColumnIf you have ever sailed in a small sailboat you

know how much fun it is to lean out and try to make the boat go faster by shifting your weight. But you also probably know that there is a tipping point – a point at which, no matter what you do, the boat is going to capsize, and you will be in the water.

Marketers also talk about a tipping point in the world of commerce when a product – all of a sudden - goes from relative obscurity to

overwhelming popularity and economic success.Tipping point also can describe the phenomenon in society when an

idea which had seemed relatively marginal, only held by a few stalwarts, suddenly moves to become an expression of the vast mainstream of public opinion. Reaching that tipping point typically results in signifi cant legislative response which ultimately leads towards broad cultural change. Two recent examples of societal tipping points include the legalization of same-sex marriage, and the #MeToo movement which resulted in widespread intolerance of sexual harassment.

Now - in the wake of the widespread demonstrations against racism, and in support of police reform and systemic change in our justice system – we might ask: What is the tipping point that will move these ideas to become the expression of the vast mainstream of public opinion? What will it take to catalyze signifi cant legislative response and, ultimately, lead to broad cultural change?

To go back to the sailboat analogy, what makes the boat tip is enough people moving to the same side. Signifi cant legislative response and broad cultural change depends on enough people moving to the side of righteousness.

As Jews, we have a sacred responsibility to move to the side of righteousness. We are commanded to take up the cause of the downtrodden. We must not let ourselves get distracted by a particular group’s platform and we must not let ourselves get sidetracked by a particular person’s unpleasant tone or a particular individual’s bad behavior. We need not agree with everything someone says or does in order to make common cause with them to move to the side of righteousness. The slogan “Black Lives Matter” is not owned by any single organization. It is expressive of the side of righteousness towards which we must move. We must take the time and energy to listen, to learn, to examine our own privilege and inherent bias. We must acknowledge that while our Jewish suffering is indeed part of our collective history, for black and brown people in America suffering is part of their personal memory and their everyday lives.

We will move the fi ght against racism to the tipping point when we join hands with all people of good will, convinced and committed that we can build a better society: when we say ‘enough’ to hatred and bigotry, ‘enough’ to racism, ‘enough’ to the divisiveness and intolerance that eats away at the fabric of our society. Let us commit to do what it takes – to demonstrate and protest, to lobby our elected offi cials, to work in support of police reform and electoral reform, to vote. Let us commit not to stand idly by but to take every opportunity to speak up and speak out for justice – until every citizen feels that we all believe that their life matters; until all, who are created equal, are treated equally; until there really is liberty and justice for all.

IN THE TEMPLE FAMILYMAZEL TOV:

To Judy and Billy Wenger on the birth of their grandson, Leonard Doron Wenger.

To Rita and Lowell Goone on the birth of their great-grandson and Laura and David Goone on the birth of their grandnephew, Benjamin Trent Goone.

To Barbara and Sanford Alper on the birth of their granddaughter, Rae Charlotte Alper.

To Karen and Dean Nolan on the engagement of their daughter, Shoshana to Joshua Pomerantz.ON THE ROAD TO RECOVERY:

The following Temple members are recovering from recent illness: Cheri Meyer. We wish her a speedy recovery.

CONDOLENCES:We note with sorrow the passing of Adam Silverz”l, nephew of Kathy

Kornbluth. May his memory be for a blessing.We note with sorrow the passing of Kenneth Orzoffz”l, father of Eileen

Orzoff-Baranyk. May his memory be for a blessing.We note with sorrow the passing of Joel Meyerz”l, father of Scott

Meyer. May his memory be for a blessing.

WITH THANKS:Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all of the heartfelt

expressions of support that Rabbi Weinberg and the TBI community provided upon the death of our father and grandfather, Stanley Giffi nz”l. Even though we could not have a Shiva and in person hugs, we felt embraced by all your expressions of sympathy and love.

Paula, Dan, Jonathan, Noah Sabin, Brian and Mark Giffi n

B’RUCHIM HABA’IM - WELCOME!JOINING THE TBI FAMILY

Our coverage of new Temple Beth Israel members continues. We are delighted to welcome the following TBI households who have discovered just how friendly, supportive, and inclusive our community is. As it begins its second century, TBI offers a vibrant and welcoming presence in Skokie, the North Shore, and beyond.

Lindsay & Bill GrayChildren: Eva, 7, Sam, 5 and Jack, 2Evanston, IL

The Gray Family was introduced to Temple Beth Israel in 2019 by Bill’s aunts and uncles: Karen & Tom Keeler and Wendy & Marc Raven, long-time TBI members. A native of South Bend, IN, Lindsay works in fi nance for Wells Fargo and is an Indiana University graduate. Bill is a lawyer and

business owner originally from Munster, IN. He graduated from Indiana University and Harvard Law School.

First Impressions: “TBI was an excellent choice for us. It’s a friendly, welcoming congregation. We were immediately struck by the amazing sense of community, tradition and genuine caring at the Temple.” Bill, who recently joined the TBI board as a trustee, adds that he and Lindsay are delighted to be part of a vibrant and supportive community.

Getting to Know You: One of the aspects of Temple life that may have infl uenced the Gray’s in joining is TBI’s commitment to education at all levels especially for the family’s three children: Eva, Sam and Jack. They are looking forward to getting to know other school children at Temple. While raising and spending quality time with family is their No. 1 priority, Lindsay’s hobbies include playing golf, cooking and book restoration. Meanwhile Bill enjoys reading history, playing basketball and competing in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Prepared by Norwin Merens,TBI Membership Committee

A WORD FROMTRIBUTE COMMITTEE CHAIRS

We are honored to be chairing the year of tribute to Jody and Rabbi Michael Weinberg as they (and we) prepare for his retirement beginning July 2021. They have served this congregation in joy and devotion for 34 years and it is our intention to celebrate those years of service with all of you. We hope to provide the entire congregation with many opportunities to refl ect on Rabbi’s tenure, to continue to learn from him and to thank both Jody and Rabbi for all that they have given our community. We also believe that to move forward with the next exciting chapter of TBI, it is important to refl ect on the chapter that is closing and give thanks for the leadership provided.

Below is a list of the events and programs we are working on which may be expanded as the year progresses. Our goal is to engage as many members as possible in the creation of these programs and make them available to as many congregants as would like to attend. The details for each event will be publicized as soon as they are available. What we are able to do and the manner in which we do it will also be determined by COVID-19 and what is safe for the community at the time.

Monday Night Masterclass Series(Monthly dates to be determined)

Brotherhood Sunday Morning Speaker and Brunch(Date to be Determined)

Scholar-in-Residence Dec.4-6, 2020Dedication of the Rabbi Michael A. Weinberg

Center for Jewish Learning April 18, 2021Likrat Shabbat/Kabbalat Shabbat Celebration May 7, 2021Tribute Gala May 8, 2021Sisterhood T’Fillot Nashim May 14, 2021We will keep you posted as the work continues and look forward

to your participation in this exciting and meaningful celebration.Sara and Billy Belkov

Tribute Committee Chairs

FROM THE PRESIDENTIn this month’s article I would like to share excerpts

of my Tribute to Rabbi Weinberg which I gave at our TBI Congregational Annual Meeting which was held virtually on June 3, 2020. On that night, Rabbi was voted to become our Rabbi Emeritus on July 1, 2021, an honor which he truly deserves.

A Tribute to Rabbi Michael WeinbergA tribute is a sign of respect and admiration, an

honor for a person’s accomplishments. Tonight, we pay tribute to our beloved Rabbi Weinberg who on June 30,

2021 will retire from his 34 years as the Rabbi of Temple Beth Israel. It is a time to celebrate who we are and pay tribute to our wonderful Rabbi who is moving on to enjoy his retirement. Rabbi not only has been our spiritual leader, but also our teacher, our scholar, our counselor, our advisor and our friend. Rabbi is also the face of Temple Beth Israel to the larger community, both locally and beyond.

With Rabbi Weinberg’s spiritual leadership, we have built on the inspiring legacy of Temple Beth Israel; a legacy of caring and creativity, of devotion to Judaism, Israel and Jewish life and building a just world (Tikum Olam).

I am thrilled to share with you that Rabbi has agreed to become our Rabbi Emeritus, an honor that he well deserves.

I am also thrilled to share with you that at the February 12, 2020 TBI Board of Trustees meeting, a motion, in accordance with the unanimous recommendation of TBI’s Executive Committee, authorized the naming of the second fl oor of TBI’s building located at 3601 West Dempster Street Skokie, Illinois as the Rabbi Michael A. Weinberg Center for Jewish Learning upon the planned retirement of Rabbi Weinberg as TBI’s Rabbi on June 30, 2021. This honor is in recognition of Rabbi Weinberg’s long and distinguished tenure, and extraordinary service to our congregation, as well as to honor Rabbi Weinberg for his unsurpassed commitment to fostering Jewish learning by TBI members of all ages.

Sara and Billy Belkov are the chairs of the Tribute Committee. They will be planning the programs and events that will take place over the coming year that will continue to pay tribute to our Rabbi Weinberg.

More information to follow. Helene LevinePresident, TBI

IN MEMORIAMTemple Beth Israel announces with profound sorrow the passing of

PHYLLIS CANTORz”l

May her memory be for a blessing.

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF CONGREGATIONAL LEARNING

Dear Friends,

I write this while listening to a woodpecker who is only one of the plethora of birds that have graced our yard this summer. It has been a time of great introspection, calm as well as uncertainty. In the last few weeks we have seen our country awaken to an age-old injustice, a long-standing pandemic in contrast to the new one of COVID 19. Seeing the response from ordinary citizens has been enervating.

Challenging us as well is the unknown of the fall. We are working hard to determine what education at TBI will look like. You can be certain that we are being thoughtful and more than anything thinking about the health and safety of all those who learn at TBI, from our youngest to our oldest.

I am so grateful to all of you for your patience and support. This situation is untried and untested and requires all of us to be refl ective and careful as we chart our course. I have great thought partners in this work: the faculty, my colleagues on the professional staff and of course, all of you.

Please stay safe and healthy this summer. I know we are all anxious to “return to normal” but it is more important to begin our re-entry wisely and in a planful manner.

Missing all of you!B’Shalom,

Lori B. Sagarin

SOCIAL ACTION COUNCILYEAR IN REVIEW

The Social Action Council (SAC) meet on Monday, June 8th to review the year. This was an incredibly unique year with most programs and activities shuttered from March-June. However, through your help and assistance SAC made a difference in our Temple and community at large.

• One Mitzvah Project, Members of the Congregation purchased and helped pack personal hygiene items and writing items for individuals and families entering the US as refugees.

• High Holiday Food Drive was a great success. We also introduced the Food of the Month article in the monthly bulletin to help keep The Ark and Niles Food Pantry stocked. Money was raised for Maot Chitim. Unfortunately, due the pandemic we were unable to pack and deliver food. Instead, those in need received gift cards to purchase food for Passover.

• Green Team Initiative began with 4 events and became a regular activity. TBI greatly decreased the solid waste and increased composting and recycling. Through these activities, many TBI members have now begun composting at their homes.

• LBGTQ Leadership presented educational meetings and helped lead us in Shabbat worship.

• World Zionist Congress (WZO) Elections Members of TBI were encouraged to exercise their right and vote for representation at the World Zionist Congress.

• Health Resource Fair was held in March 2020. Representatives from various social services organizations and health related organizations were on hand to share information.

• Religious Action Council (RAC) Illinois Spring Initiative to end money bonds and to decrease the number of incarcerated individuals awaiting trial.

What is on the horizon for next year?

• Voter Registration and Civic Engagement Campaign though RAC Illinois. Whether someone votes blue or red, everyone needs to vote and every vote needs to count.

• Continue the Green Team Initiative. Let us continue to decrease our carbon footprint.

• Help keep The Ark and the Niles Food Pantry stocked. Look for more information on how to help our neighbors in need.

• Let us support our neighbors of all color and Stand Together Against Racism. SAC endorses the statement from the Union of Reform Judaism (URJ) stand against racism. Look for educational programs to help enlighten us on helping and supporting our neighbors of color.

Our next meeting will be Thursday, August 13th at 7 pm via Zoom.

Together we can help heal the world.B’Shalom

Dan Miller and Debbie ShulrufCo-Chairs SAC

What happens when all your hard work and planning stop in mid-stream due to circumstances so far out of your control? Well, at Temple Beth Israel, you get the best and brightest on Zoom and come up with Plan B in record time. TBI Gala 2020 will certainly be remembered (as will many other events and programs held at TBI this year), but perhaps, not because it was virtual. We believe it will be remembered for the eye-catching e-invitation, the whimsical e-blast reminders, the fi rst ever on-line auction, the toasts and the amazing talent offered up by our Broadway caliber members. We cannot adequately express how grateful we are to all who helped to ensure that the show went on!

They include: Lori Sagarin, Amber Wood, Marla Aviva Bentley, Rebecca Lieber, Mikala Stewart, Adam Stewart, Helene Levine, Norwin Merens, Jeff Dorfman, Julie Burt Nichols, Eleanor Katz, Sarah and Hagay Fringero (Sarah Marie Young and Guy King), Robin, David and Solly Winer, Justin Castellano, Lily Gussis and Rabbi Weinberg.

Yes, the individual parts of the evening were magnifi cent, but we believe what made “B, B & B” such a hit was all of you supporting us. You logged on wearing your fi nery, sipping your beverages of choice, and enjoying your scrumptious morsels. Even though we were not physically together we were certainly together in heart and minds. Please check out our Facebook page for photos from the event.

There will be more memorable fundraising events to come! Stay tuned for future great programs.

“Life is all about how you handle plan B.”

So very fondly,Sheila Rosenfeld and Joanne Merritt

Co-Vice Presidents Fundraising

Bubbles and Bites!

Stay Safe

and Healthy

Together.

CHAI NOTESFROM THE MUSIC DIRECTOR

Like Spring 2020, this summer looks different that all previous summers. For most summers in my life, I have been blessed to spend them at a Jewish summer camp – Camps Tamarack and Maas during my childhood, and OSRUI in my adult professional years. This summer, there is no camp for my children nor myself. Like many of you, I fi nd myself balancing my time trying to create a memorable summer for my children, while maintaining my responsibilities of TBI,

the GTM, and our home. Some days are balanced, and I am able to spend quality time with the kids, creating, reading, and playing, while other days I fi nd myself chained to my desk and Zoom.

I am doing my best to look at this time as an opportunity, to focus on the positive, and to make memories with my family. Instead of camps, we will set up tents in the yard; instead of swimming in the community pool or at the beach, we will enjoy the sprinklers and maybe purchase an above ground pool; instead of dining out, we will enjoy backyard barbeques and smores around the fi repit. We will do our best to enjoy the blessings of our natural surroundings and one another. What are your ideas to make the most of this summer? What opportunities will you seek out?

TBI continues to offer opportunities to be ‘together’ this summer even while we remain physically apart. There are numerous classes, programs and services where we can pray, learn, and grow together. Consider participating in an adult education class or two, like Stories of Music with me on Mondays, Together and Apart: The Future of Jewish Peoplehood with Rabbi on Tuesdays, Keeping in Good Voice on Thursdays, or Lunch and Learn with Lori on Fridays. Or enjoy summer Shabbat services in your own backyard or green space on July 24th and August 28th. Whatever you choose, I hope you too will seek out joy and give thanks to the Holy One of Blessing.

Joy & Blessings,Marla Aviva Bentley

Reminder: Material for the bulletin is due electronically to the Bulletin Editor at Bulletin@TBISkokie.org on the 10th of the month prior to publication. If you do not have access to a computer, please submit paper copy to the Temple offi ce by the 7th of the month prior to publication so that it can be transcribed and sent by the 10th. The deadline for the August bulletin is July 10th. Have an idea for an article? Send it in!

ATTENTION JOURNALISTS ANDASPIRING JOURNALISTS!

From Pam Lavine—This was supposed to be my farewell after serving as Sisterhood Co-

President the last two years. However, these are unusual circumstances and I felt that agreeing to stay on as Co-President was the right thing to do.

The past three months have been challenging for everyone. There were programs and meetings that were postponed or cancelled. We still are not sure what will happen for the next few months as we navigate this new “normal”. Thankfully Temple has been able to engage our members, and Sisterhood TBI has followed. Who knew the words “virtual” and “Zoom” would become part of our everyday vocabulary?

I want to thank Joanne Merritt, my fi rst Co-President, who guided me so well, and whose passion and dedication to Sisterhood are inspiring. And thank you to Cynthia Miller, who has been so gracious, smart and easy to work with this second year. I look forward to another productive and interesting year with Cynthia.

An immense thank you to our outgoing Offi cers and Board members. Without their support and hard work Sisterhood would not be such a vibrant organization. We look forward to our new Board starting July 1. We have Board Orientation on June 28 and our fi rst Board meeting with the new Board on July 12 (all virtual).

I had not been to Temple for 2 ½ months when I drove there to pick up my Shavuot cheesecake slices. I saw Rabbi, Lori, Amber and others (all behind masks). To see the “real” person as opposed to the “virtual” person made me happy and sad at the same time. I realized how much I miss going to Temple and being able to engage in our usual activities. But I know how lucky we are that we still connect on a regular basis. I look forward to when we can all be together again.

From Cynthia Miller—We have a lot to be thankful for, even amid a global pandemic and

nationwide unrest. Consider the basics. Most of us have plentiful food, comfortable housing and the blessings of family and friends. Our TBI community continues to sustain us and has kept us connected despite the restrictions and isolation. Our professional and offi ce staff quickly mastered Zoom and other social media to link us together (thank you, Amber Wood!). Rabbi Weinberg has graciously instituted summer adult education with learning opportunities led by himself. Our Director of Congregational Learning Lori B Sagarin and our Director of Music Marla Aviva Bentley also have wonderful weekly offerings. We have had to give up some of our cherished activities such as summer camp at OSRUI and in-person services in our sanctuary and at the park, but we have come to fi nd beauty in our “virtual” worship, online learning, music and even in our Temple, Sisterhood and Brotherhood meetings.

We long for the day when we can resume our “normal” activities. In the meantime, let us take advantage of technology to stay in contact. At the very least, you can always pick up the phone!

Respectfully submitted,Pam Lavine and Cynthia Miller

Co-Presidents – Sisterhood Temple Beth Israel

SISTERHOOD NEWS

SISTERHOOD OPEN MEETING PROGRAMSSisterhood TBI is excited to

welcome Dr. Dean Bell, President and CEO of Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership, who will present at our fi rst daytime program meeting of the season. The virtual program will start at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, July 1st. A Zoom link will be included in the Temple and Sisterhood eblasts.

Sisterhood Temple Beth Israel’s August 5th Open Program Meeting will take place virtually at the Holocaust Museum. You will have the opportunity to join us on a docent tour of the highly regarded Ruth Bader Ginsburg exhibit at 1:00 pm. Please watch for your Temple and Sisterhood eblasts that will contain instructions on how to register for this program. There will be a nominal charge of $5.00 per person to view the exhibit. If you have questions please email Laura Cooper, Cooper4449@gmail.com or Jane Page, janepage67@gmail.com.

SISTERHOOD ANNIVERSARIES AND BIRTHDAYSJULY ANNIVERSARIES

Carol and Erwin Barrington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8/3/1958Susan and Robert Reisberg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8/3/1980Ellen and Ira Baygood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8/10/1969Janis and Mark Fine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/11/1974Karen and Dean Nolan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/11/1984Jessica and Steve Dembo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/11/2001Marcia and Ira Satyr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8/12/1962Susan and Russell Baim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8/13/1989Martha and Allan Burman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8/13/2019Meryl and John Smyth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8/15/1987Gloria and Michael Froman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8/17/1975Patti and Cliff Levy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8/19/2001Rebecca and Michael Lieber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8/22/1999Jan and Steven Shiffman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8/28/1969Lori and Rabbi James Sagarin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8/31/1986

JULY BIRTHDAYSJody Weinberg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/1Helene Steen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/3Carol Barrington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/6Marjorie Getz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/7Patti Levy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/7Teri Lang. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/9Sharrel Titlebaum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/10Judith Simon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/14Lisa Drucker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/22Judy Sands. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/22Renee Gale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/24Ruth Helgemo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/25Phyllis Stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/27Stacy Oliver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/30Kathy Rabin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/30Ilene Klegon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8/31

Would you like to celebrate simchas and benefi t Sisterhood TBI? Uniongrams are only $2.00 each. Contact: Candy Siegel,maltesepeanut-biz@yahoo.com, 847-679-4707 or Jan Shiffman, janshiffman@sbcglobal.net, 847-674-1412.

When it came time to announce Brotherhood’s 2020 “Person-of-the-Year” at last month’s TBI Annual Meeting, Arnie Oskin was experiencing various zoom connectivity issues. Granted, we’ve all been challenged by this online medium for communicating and meeting since the

COVID-19 pandemic began months ago. What was so unusual in Arnie’s case was that he missed the introductory remarks that announced his selection as the TBI Brotherhood Person-of-the-Year recipient. In his own words, “Before I was ever connected on Zoom, I was receiving congratulatory emails and phone calls from TBI friends/colleagues and wasn’t exactly sure why.”

For more than 40 years, Arnie has served Temple Beth Israel as a trustee and offi cer with diverse board responsibilities. He has also crafted an impressive Brotherhood resume that points to his service as a Trustee, co-President (with Ted Lavine), and now co-Chaplain (with Bruce Crane). In recent years, he has

taken charge of the annual “Back-to-School” picnic and the detailed planning for a well-organized Veterans Shabbat.

A proud veteran and Buffalo, NY native, Arnie fi rst became involved with TBI as he was mentoring a nephew in preparation for his Bar Mitzvah in 1974. It was during that time that he met Rabbi Ernst M. Lorgez”l. Arnie concluded then that Temple would become the future spiritual and cultural home for his family.

“Faye (my wife) and I were recently married and planned to move near TBI’s (branch school building) located at Crawford & Howard Streets in Skokie. We were graciously welcomed and knew Temple was the place for us.” Shortly, after joining in April 1976, the Oskin’s welcomed their daughter, Sarah, who was named at TBI that summer. A few years later, the family was complete with the arrival of their son, David, in 1979.

Just as fellow TBI members and teachers were inspirational in the tutoring and schooling of his children, Arnie continues to take an active role as a mentor to aspiring B’nai Mitzvah at Temple. Further, his own link from Rabbi Lorge has continued for the past 33 years and counting with Rabbi Michael Weinberg, who will be retiring on June 30, 2021 and offi cially becoming Rabbi Emeritus.

“We’ve experienced wonderful moments and great stability with our Rabbis over the years. This trend should continue and will help shape our future as Skokie’s remaining Reform temple,” he adds. While few would disagree with Arnie’s assessment of TBI, it is because of his ongoing commitment as a member, mentor, and valued volunteer that Temple Beth Israel remains the vibrant community that it is today. Mazal Tov, Arnie! Continued good health and much happiness to you/your wonderful family.

Brotherhood Bytes – Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot has acknowledged Brotherhood’s volunteer efforts through CJE Senior Life and its participation this past January at the Lieberman Center in Skokie … Stan Rothbardt, a long-time TBI member and active for years in Brotherhood, including service as President, offers well wishes to all his Temple friends during the pandemic from his home in the Bradenton, FL area.

Zoom Talk sessions, sponsored by Brotherhood, will be offered on Thursday, July 9 and Thursday, August 13 at 7 pm. Check the TBI website for connecting links. A special “thank you” to all TBI and Brotherhood members who graciously supported the fi rst edition of “Father’s Day” tributes. An updated insert with the names of all participants is included with this bulletin. Response to the program will grow appreciably during the years to come. There will be no scheduled Chicago Dogs’ Independent League baseball game in Rosemont, IL, sponsored by Brotherhood this summer, because of Phase III guidelines recently imposed by the state of Illinois involving crowd size at public events since COVID-19.

Norwin Merens & Randall HemanBrotherhood Co-Presidents

BROTHERHOOD MATTERS Zoom-Driven World Offers

New Challenges

Broadway, Bubbles, and Bites was not our usual Gala, but it sure was spectacular. People “attended” from all over dressed up or not – we all enjoyed the show! Congratulations to Sheila Rosenfeld, Joanne Merritt, and the whole Fundraising team on an incredible show.

TBI’s Annual Congregational Meeting was held via Zoom on June 3rd and was widely “attended”. Business matters of the congregation were discussed including the budget for next year, the Brotherhood Person of the Year, the Sisterhood TBI’s generous donation to TBI, the nominating committee presentation and election of our new President-Elect, Neal Gussis.

CONTRIBUTIONSA minimum contribution of $15.00 (unless otherwise noted) for donation to be acknowledged with a card and published in the bulletin.

SIDNEY I. COLE CAMPSCHOLARSHIP FUND

Provides camp scholarships for ourstudents who attend Olin-Sang-Ruby

Union Institute CampDonor In Memory ofBill Klopsch ..................................... Myra Auslin

RABBI’S DISCRETIONARY FUNDProvides funds for charitable uses within

and outside the congregation at thediscretion of the Rabbi

Donor In Honor ofPaula and Dan Sabin............... Rabbi WeinbergSherry Brick ......................... Temple Beth IsraelErwin Barrington ...............Carol Barrington and .................. their 62nd Wedding AnniversaryMichael Siegel andAndrea Backman .... Cindy and Steve Franklin’s ......................................new granddaughterDeanne and Bernard Losoff .............................. ................... their 65th Wedding AnniversaryDonor In Memory ofMichael Siegel andAndrea Backman ..........................Morris BeiderTrudy Isbitz Brodsky ...........Manuel David IsbitzLinda and Milton BenjaminJeffrey Cohen ......................... Jane HoffenbergStephen Epstein .....................Rozanne EpsteinBrenda Neiman........................ Frances KaulkinBill Klospch ....................Thomas Richard HarrsBetsy Fuchs .............. Rose and Leonard FuchsJune and Joel Levin.............Ezra George LevinPaula and Dan SabinJane Pence andDouglas Masters..........................Phyllis Cantor

EDUCATION FUNDProvides funds for Jewish education at TBI

Donor In Honor ofCarol and Erwin BarringtonLaura and David GooneNathan Cohen ..........................Lori B Sagarin’s ................................25th Anniversary at TBIDeanne and Bernard Losoff ............... their new ........... great-granddaughter, Madison RoseDeanne and Bernard Losoff .................Bernie’s ................................................85th BirthdayBill Klopsch ................. Fellow TBI CongregantsPaula and Dan Sabin............Shoshana Nolan’s ..............engagement to Joshua PomerantzNanette Cohen ........................ Cindy Franklin’s ...................................retirement from JCFS

Donor In Memory ofKenneth Kolmin ..................... Dr. Julius EpsteinCaren and David Grossman ........... Myra AuslinBill Klopsch .......................................Rea RobinJack Schmerer...... Irving and Steven SchmererSheila and Eddie Rosenfeld ........ Gladys HellerDavid Kornbluth .................. Seymour KornbluthLinda andAlan Nidetz .................Betty Harrison PuchalskiHarriet and Richard AronsGary Zimmerman .........................Joel D. MeyerBarbara Milsk...............................Phyllis Cantor

MUSIC FUNDProvides funds for music programs

Donor In Memory ofAbby Sloan .................. Cheryl Parmet’s MotherAlice Solovy ..............................Sheldon SolovyAbby SloanPaula and Dan Sabin....................Morris BeiderNina and David Henry .................Joel D. Meyer

SOCIAL SERVICE FUNDProvides support for social service programs

within the temple and in the surroundingcommunity and to some individual

tzedakah recipientsDonor In Memory ofKathy Kornbluth ......................Robert KornbluthKathy Kornbluth .................. Suzanne KornbluthBetsy Fuchs .............. Rose and Leonard FuchsAlyce Heman ...............................Phyllis Cantor

MORRIS FAMILY COMMUNITY FUNDEstablished to respond to emergency needs

of individuals in the Skokie community asidentifi ed by the Village of Skokie

social services staffDonor In Memory ofLaura and Norwin Merens ..........Jacob Pikosky

NANETTE B. MENDELSOHNTREE OF LIFE FUND

Funds used for the beautifi cationof Temple Beth Israel

Donor In Memory ofSue Schneider ................................ Myra Auslin ...........................................Felice Jacobson

As an acknowledgement that we moved to Phase 3 of the Re-opening plan, Rabbi moved Zoom Shabbat services back to the Lorge Sanctuary.

Summer is upon us, and grass and weeds don’t seem to mind the rain and beautiful sunny days! Special Thanks to Jessica Hornick and her team of gardeners who worked so hard to clean up around the outside of TBI.

DATED MATERIAL — PLEASE RUSH

Change Service Requested

Temple Beth Israel Bulletin (USPS 537-480)Published Monthly by

3601 W. Dempster Street • Skokie, Illinois 60076847.675.0951 • www.t biskokie.org

Michael A.Weinberg, RabbiLori B. Sagarin, RJE, Director of Congregational Learning

Marla Aviva Bentley, Director of MusicAmber Wood, Director of Operations

Helene Levine, PresidentErnst M. Lorge, Rabbi Emeritus*

S. Felix Mendelsohn, Founding Rabbi**of Blessed Memory

Printed by Total Graphics

P E R I O D I CA L P O STAG E PA I D AT S KO K I E , I L

Hallie Neuhaus, Masters Degree in Public Administration, Ohio State University. Talia Neuhaus, Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Psychology with a double minor inBiology and Early Childhood Education at DePaulSophie Berne, Bachelor of Science majoring in Electrical Engineering, minor inMath, University of VermontBenji Sagarin, Bachelors of Fine Arts, Theatre Design and Technical Production,Western Michigan University Justin Celnik, DePaul UniversityJessica Kropveld graduated from the University of Cincinnati in AerospaceEngineeringRochelle Kropveld graduated from McKendree University in southern Illinois inPsychologyKoby Shaykin, Bachelor of Science in Psychology and BehavioralSciencesWestern Michigan University

College and University Grads 2020Rising 8th Graders

Lilly BroutmanNathan Miller

Ava RosenbergMitchell Tuchten

Josh MeyerBrayden Tratt

Max NovakJasmine Hermann

Jake NelsonJaime Kimmel-CholdinTeagan Dace-Choldin

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Thank you to all who contributed on Facebook. Is your grad missing from the list? Send an email to Amber Wood(DirectorOperations@TBISkokie.org) for addition next month!

The Members of Temple Beth Israel are so proud andwish Kol HaKavod to our grads!