David Segal - Adath Jeshurun Congregation

ADATH JESHURUN CONGREGATION
more than a synagogue . . . a sacred community
127 th ANNUAL MEETING
Continuing Our Journey Together
13 Sivan 5771
June 15, 2011
7:30 PM

The mission of Adath Jeshurun Congregation,
a member of the Conservative Movement,
is to be a progressive, egalitarian and
sacred community dedicated to
Torah (learning and tradition),
Avodah (prayer and spirituality) and
Gemilut Hasadim (acts of loving kindness).
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page number
Program 4
126 th Annual Meeting Minutes 5
Incoming and Outgoing Board of Trustees 6-7
Adath Staff Listing and Milestone Years of Service 8-9
Adath Past Leadership List 10
Shem Tov Award 11
Governance Structure 12-13
Administrative and Finance Committee Reports
Art 16
Communications 16
Development and Fundraising 17
Finance 18
Human Resources 19
Membership 19
Property and Catering 20
Education Committee Reports
Adult Learning 22-23
Gan Shelanu Preschool 24
Inclusion 25
Jewish Life and Learning 26-27
Noah‘s Ark 28
Primary Education 28-30
Secondary Education 31
65+ Senior Programming 32
Synaplex 33
Young Adult Outreach 34
Youth Department 34-35
Standing and Ad Hoc Committee Reports
20s/30s Krutzah 38
Cemetery 39
Chevra Kavod Hamet 40
Etz Chayim 41-42
Hesed 43-44
Israel and Masorti 45
Keruv 46
Nominating 47
Strategic Planning 48
TAMID 48
Welcoming/Connectedness 49
Women‘s League 50
Yad Sima Tova & Congregational Nurse Program 51-53
Adath Jeshurun Foundation Report and List of Funds 54-58
Bold Statements to Guide Our Future 59
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PROGRAM
President‘s Welcome and Call to Order.............................................................................. Mike Greenstein
Invocation .................................................................................................................. Rabbi Yonatan Sadoff
Star Spangled Banner and Hatikva ............................................................................. Cantor Scott Buckner
President‘s Annual Report, Approval of 2010 Annual Meeting Minutes,
Recognition of Outgoing Officers and Trustees ................................................................ Mike Greenstein
Nominating Committee Report ............................................................................................ Heidi Schneider
Election and Installation of New Officers and Trustees ................ Mike Greenstein/Rabbi Harold Kravitz
Staff Milestone Years of Service .............................................................................................. Sheila Sigel
Honor Rabbi Lilly Kaufman ................................................................................ Barbara Rubin-Greenberg
Welcome from Bnai Emet .......................................................................................................... Adeel Saad
Mahzor Lev Shalem .................................................................................................... Rabbi Harold Kravitz
Adath Foundation Report ........................................................................................................... David Segal
Shem Tov Award ........................................................................................... Lon Rosenfield/Todd Werner
Closing Benediction .................................................................................................... Rabbi Harold Kravitz
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Adath Jeshurun Congregation
126 th Annual Meeting Minutes
June 17, 2010
President Heidi Schneider called to order the 126 th Annual Meeting of Adath Jeshurun
Congregation on June 17, 2010 in the Adath Jeshurun Social Hall, and she welcomed the congregation
assembled. Rabbi Yonatan Sadoff gave an invocation and Cantor Scott Buckner led the congregation in
singing The Star Spangled Banner and Hatikva.
President Schneider presented the President‘s Annual Report and called for a motion to accept
the minutes of the 125th Annual Meeting of Adath Jeshurun Congregation on June 25, 2009. The
motion was made, seconded and passed.
President Schneider recognized the contributions of the outgoing officers and trustees, thanking
them for their service to Adath and announcing a donation to MAZON in honor of their contributions to
the congregation. President Schneider introduced the slate of officers and trustees for terms beginning
June 2010 and called for a motion to approve the slate of officers and trustees. The motion was made,
seconded and passed. Rabbi Kravitz installed the new officers and trustees of the congregation.
Vice President of Human Resources, Sheila Sigel, honored Adath staff members who have
achieved milestone years of service and thanked them for their hard work and dedication to the
congregation. Special recognition was given to Nina Samuels for twenty-five years of service to Adath
Jeshurun.
Vice President of Jewish Life & Learning, Barbara Rubin-Greenberg, recognized the Rosh
Hodesh program and its first group of participants to graduate high school. She also honored its longtime
leader, Helaine Bolter, who started the program along with Hana Gruenberg, and has remained
committed to the program since its inception.
President Schneider recognized David and Jill Orbuch for their leadership, vision, and dedication
as co-chairs of Adath‘s 125th Anniversary Committee, and expressed the congregation‘s appreciation to
them and all of their committee members for a joyous and meaningful year of celebration.
The co-chairs of the Strategic Planning Committee, Judy Cook and Keri Bahar, reported on the
strategic planning process that began in February 2009 and culminated with a Visioning Conference in
January 2010 that developed eleven dynamic Bold Statements articulating Adath‘s goals and vision for
the future. On behalf of the congregation, Judy and Keri thanked the members of the Strategic Planning
Committee and the participants in the Visioning Conference for their significant contributions to this
process. Incoming President Mike Greenstein presented gifts to Judy and Keri to honor their leadership
and dedication.
Hazzan Scott Buckner and representatives of the M‘shor‘rim sang Ashrei and then led the
congregation in singing happy birthday to Charles Newman in honor of his upcoming special birthday.
President Schneider shared her gratitude and remarks at the close of her term as president, and
presented a gift to incoming President Greenstein. Incoming President Greenstein thanked President
Schneider for her successful term leading the congregation and presented her with a gift on behalf of the
congregation. Incoming President Greenstein set forth his vision for his term of office.
Foundation President Alan Gingold gave a report on the status of the Adath Jeshurun
Foundation.
Past Shem Tov Award recipient Judy Cook presented this year‘s Shem Tov Award to two
recipients, Lon Rosenfield and Todd Werner. Lon and Todd accepted the recognition with words of
gratitude.
Rabbi Harold Kravitz closed the Annual Meeting with a benediction.
Ellen Sue Parker
Secretary
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INCOMING BOARD OF TRUSTEES
2011-2012
Executive Board
President .............................................................................................................................. Mike Greenstein
President Elect ..................................................................................................... Barbara Rubin-Greenberg
Adult Learning Vice President................................................................................................ Nancy Harold
Communications Vice President ....................................................................................... Lonny Goldsmith
Development & Fundraising Vice President ......................................................................... Rick Siedband
Finance Vice President ........................................................................................................... Chris Kellogg
Human Resources Vice President .............................................................................................. Sheila Sigel
Jewish Life and Learning Vice President ........................................................... Barbara Rubin-Greenberg
Membership Vice President ........................................................................................... Lauren Segelbaum
Primary Education Vice President ......................................................................................... Julie Ziessman
Property/Catering Vice President ............................................................................................ Todd Werner
Secondary Education Vice President ................................................................................... Lon Rosenfield
Secretary .................................................................................................................................... Ed Hoffman
Immediate Past President ..................................................................................................... Heidi Schneider
Second Immediate Past President ........................................................................................... David Orbuch
Trustees
Sally Appelbaum*
Keri Bahar
Gary Baron
Carol Bromer*
Judy Cook*
Cindy Dubansky+
Lucy Rose Fischer
Paula Fox
Kim Gedan+
Jeannie Gilfix
Debbie Goldenberg
Judy Goldstein*
Scott Grossfeld
Marcy Harris+
Ruth Harris+
Stan Kagin
Raleigh Kaminsky*
Esther Katz*
Marc Kermisch
Gary Kibort
Debra Krawetz+
Drea Lear
Darren Lederfine
Jules Levin*
Shari Levitt+
Joe Lifland+
Allison London
Bruce Nemer+
Amy Newman
Irving Nudell*
Joyce Orbuch*
Michael Oreck
Leslie Orenstein
Melvin Orenstein*
David Pink
Norman Pink*
Paul Pink*
Heidi Schneider*
David Segal*
Jonathan Shaver
Eli Sirotin
Jaye Snyder
Sheri Steinman
Hindy Tankenoff+
Scott Teplinsky
Debbie Wolfe
Ed Zeman
*Past President
+Standing Committee Chair or Constituent Group Chair
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OUTGOING BOARD OF TRUSTEES
2010-2011
Executive Board
President .............................................................................................................................. Mike Greenstein
Immediate Past-President..................................................................................................... Heidi Schneider
Adult Learning Vice President................................................................................................ Nancy Harold
Communications Vice President ....................................................................................... Lonny Goldsmith
Development & Fundraising Vice President ......................................................................... Rick Siedband
Finance Vice President ........................................................................................................... Chris Kellogg
Human Resources Vice President .............................................................................................. Sheila Sigel
Jewish Life and Learning Vice President ........................................................... Barbara Rubin-Greenberg
Membership Vice President ................................................................................................... Carrie Lifland
Primary Education Vice President .......................................................................................... Jeannie Gilfix
Property/Catering Vice President ............................................................................................ Todd Werner
Secondary Education Vice President ................................................................................... Lon Rosenfield
Secretary ............................................................................................................................. Ellen Sue Parker
Trustees
Sally Appelbaum*
Keri Bahar
Gary Baron
Michael Berde
Carol Bromer*
Judy Cook*
Cindy Dubansky+
Jerome Fischbein*
Lucy Rose Fischer
Paula Fox+
Kim Gedan+
Debra Goldenberg
Judy Goldstein*
Terri Gordon+
Scott Grossfeld
Brian Herstig
Ed Hoffman
Stan Kagin
Raleigh Kaminsky*
Esther Katz*
Gary Kibort
Debra Krawetz+
Drea Lear
Darren Lederfine
Jules Levin*
Joe Lifland+
Laura Lipshutz
Allison London
Bruce Nemer+
Amy Newman
Irving Nudell*
David Orbuch*
Joyce Orbuch*
Michael Oreck
Leslie Orenstein
Melvin Orenstein*
David Pink
Norman Pink*
Paul Pink*
David Segal*
Lauren Segelbaum
Jonathan Shaver
Craig Spencer
Sheri Steinman+
Hindy Tankenoff+
Scott Teplinsky
Ardis Wexler
Debbie Wolfe
Karen Yashar
Ed Zeman
*Past President
+Standing Committee Chair or Constituent Group Chair
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ADATH JESHURUN CONGREGATION
Professional and Administrative Staff
Rabbi Harold J. Kravitz ............................................................................................................Senior Rabbi
MAX NEWMAN FAMILY CHAIR IN RABBINICS
Rabbi Yonatan Sadoff ......................................................................................................... Associate Rabbi
Hazzan Scott Buckner ........................................................................................................................Hazzan
Rabbi Lilly Kaufman ........................................................................................Director of Jewish Learning
BERMAN FAMILY CHAIR OF JEWISH LEARNING
Jim Sherman......................................................................................................................Rabbis‘ Associate
Rabbi Barry Cytron ................................................................................................................ Senior Scholar
Cantor Morton Kula ........................................................................................................... Hazzan Emeritus
Cantor Morris Amsel ......................................................................................................... Hazzan Emeritus
Bernie Goldblatt .............................................................................................................. Executive Director
Tobi Cooper ........................................................................... Hazzan‘s Assistant/Administrative Assistant
Lauren Hoffman ...................................................................................................... Annual Giving Director
Deborah Bearman Jewett ........................................................................................... Congregational Nurse
Risa Kessler ......................................................... Education Administrative Assistant/SMP Administrator
Rafina Larsen ......................................................................................................................Finance Director
Beth Mayerich .......................................................................................................... Food Services Director
Nina Samuels .......................................................................................................... Adult Learning Director
Janice Schachtman .............................................. Gan Shelanu Preschool Director/Volunteer Coordinator
Renee Schwach .................................................................................. Childcare/Camp Mishpacha Director
Bob Simon ........................................................................................................................Facilities Director
Jennifer Herman Spiller ......................................................................... Development/Foundation Director
Elisabeth Wells ..................................................................................................................... Youth Director
LEONARD & CLARA SAVITT YOUTH DIRECTOR CHAIR
Gisell Wien ....................................................................................................................... Rabbis‘ Assistant
Chris Yarger ........................................................................................ Executive Assistant/Office Manager
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ADATH PAID PROFESSIONAL STAFF MILESTONE
YEARS OF SERVICE
5 years
Tobi Cooper
Lauren Hoffman
Beth Mayerich
10 Years
Vicki Londer
Mauricio Vazques Cortes
15 Years
Lynn Margolies
25 Years
Janice Schachtman
Gisell Wien
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ADATH JESHURUN LEADERSHIP
Sr. Rabbis
1921-27 C. David Matt*
1927-29 Jesse Schwartz*
1930-46 Albert Gordon*
1946-52 Morris Gordon*
1953-60 Stanley Rabinowitz
1960-65 Jerome Lipnick*
1966-82 Arnold Goodman
1983-96 Barry Cytron
1996-present
Harold J. Kravitz
Presidents
1907-32 Joseph Schanfeld*
1932-35 Louis B. Schwartz*
1935-43 Morris Kantar*
1943-46 Dr. David Pink*
1946-47 George Stillman*
1947-48 Arthur Figen*
1948-50 Louis M. Cohen*
1950-52 Samuel Libman*
1952-55 Maurice Grossman*
1955-58 Ellis Peilen*
1958-62 Sim Heller*
1962-63 Sidney Goldish*
1964-67 David Gordon*
1967-69 Irving Brand*
1969-71 Melvin Orenstein
1971-73 Jerome Fischbein*
1973-75 Irving Nudell
1975-77 Jules Levin
1977-79 Gerald Miller*
1979-81 Esther Katz
1981-83 Norman Pink
1983-85 Sally Appelbaum
1985-87 Judy Goldstein
1987-89 Paul Pink
1989-91 Joyce Orbuch
1991-93 Melvin Goldberg*
1993-96 Norman Pink
1996-98 Carol Bromer
1998-2000 Jerry Zweigbaum*
2000-02 Raleigh Kaminsky
2003-04 Judy Cook
2004-06 David Segal
2006-08 David Orbuch
2008-10 Heidi Schneider
* z’l - may their memories be for a blessing.
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SHEM TOV AWARD
The Shem Tov (Good Name) Award is given to individuals who have contributed substantially to
congregational activity and have had significant impact on the life of the Synagogue community.
Each year, several months prior to the Annual Meeting, a committee, composed solely of previous
award recipients, meets to select an individual who best meets these criteria.
1959 Sam Abrams*
1960 Herman Neff*
1961 Aaron Herman*
1962 Ellis Peilen*
1963 Sim Heller*
1964 Sidney Goldish*
1965 Sheldon Gensler
1967 David Gordon*
1970 Esther Katz
1972 Melvin Orenstein
1975 Gerald (Sonny) Miller*
1976 Jerome Fischbein*
1977 David Sherman*
1978 Morris Besner*
1979 Jules Levin
1980 Irving Nudell
1981 Judy Goldstein
1982 Max & *Dinah Elkin
1983 Sidney Rich*
1984 Joyce Orbuch
1985 Martin Miller*
1986 Maurice Selcer*
1987 Goldie Wilensky*
1989 Donald Masler
1990 Raleigh Brand
1991 Sally Appelbaum
1993 Jeffrey Schachtman
1996 Daniel Heilicher*
1997 Edwin Agranoff
1998 Norman Pink
1999 Charlotte Nudell
2000 Carol Bromer
2001 Martin Bush &
Ben Kibort
2002 Jerry Zweigbaum*
2003 Bruce Nemer
2004 Barbara Parks
2006 Julie Kozberg
2007 Mike Greenstein
2008 Ellen Sue Parker
2009 Judy Cook
2010 Lon Rosenfield &
Todd Werner
* z’l - may their memories be for a blessing.
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ADMINISTRATIVE
AND
FINANCE COMMITTEE
REPORTS
15

Art
This committee maintains the fine art collection of Adath Jeshurun Congregation. It accepts, preserves
and displays creative works and objects that represent a wide range of Jewish themes and observances.
The collection has been assembled mainly from generous donors for over 75 years and includes prime
quality paintings, original prints, sculptures, photography, commemorative plaques and banners. All
these complement silver, brass, pewter and plated ritual objects assembled through the years.
The Art Committee guides appropriate acquisitions and implements renovation; cleaning; framing and
inventory of art works. Periodically, special exhibitions and related educational programs are presented,
often in collaboration with other Adath entities.
In the 2010-11 period, a key highlight in Adath‘s Kitsis Foyer was the spring showing of Beth
Grossman‘s thought-provoking installation ―All the rest is commentary. . .‖ based on variations of the
Golden Rule collected from 12 world religions. Several educational sessions at Synaplex and other
gatherings were featured during the season.
A brochure titled ―Adath Jeshurun Congregation: A Walking Tour‖ was developed for the 125 th
Anniversary and is now being used by congregants and guests for self-guided art and architecture strolls
through our beautiful building. The brochure is available on a shelf inside the main sanctuary doors.
Volunteer help is needed in the display and management of Adath Jeshurun‘s art collection. For
information about joining the Art Committee, call Sharon Zweigbaum, 952-595-9992.
Sharon Zweigbaum
Chair
Communications
The Communications Group is a group of key staff personnel, the Executive Director and the VP of
Communications. The group meets weekly to vet and edit new information prior to publishing the Adath
Jeshurun website, Chadashot, the Shabbat Morning Program, the Clarion and other pertinent
communication issues. We work closely with the clergy, synagogue leadership and the professional staff
to ensure that all communications accurately represent the views and interests of the congregation.
This year, the Adath Communications Group finalized the synagogue's social media policy and launched
the synagogue's Facebook page. To date, it has nearly 300 members, and synagogue staff has been urged
to regularly update it with new and upcoming events. After launching the congregation-wide page,
Noah's Ark and the 20s and 30s Group have followed suit with their own Facebook pages to reach their
constituent groups. The committee has also worked with Gan volunteers to design its page. Also in the
social media realm, Rabbi Sadoff created a blog for the Kabbalah class he taught at Seven Stars
(kabbalogg.blogspot.com/).
We've worked closely with the Welcoming and Connectedness group on how we can support the short-,
medium- and long-term goals for making Adath a more welcoming and open place to new and current
members alike. One of the key initiatives will be to update the website with contact information for each
of the committee chairs for potential members to reach out to with questions.
Lonny Goldsmith
Vice President
16

Development and Fundraising
This past year was successful for Adath‘s Development and Fundraising Committee, whose primary
purpose is to oversee and coordinate all fundraising efforts within the Synagogue. The dollars raised
help ensure that our educational programming is affordable, our talented staff is supported, and the
many needs of our congregants are met.
Please share our pride in the following successes for this year:
The L‘Chaim Campaign raised $250,603 (101% of goal and a 10% increase over last year‘s
L‘Chaim Campaign total). The total number of family donations was 579 (47% of congregation).
Thank you to Darren Lederfine, L‘Chaim Campaign Chair, and Scott Grossfeld, Leadership
Circle Chair, and the entire committee for their commitment. We are immensely grateful for the
efforts of all those who participated by supporting this year‘s Campaign!
The Youth Department put on a successful play and Purim Carnival, raising a total of $6,304 to
support our congregation‘s youth activities. Mazal Tov to our USYers and the Youth
Commission!
The Gan Shelanu had a very successful year, thank you to Jeanne Gilfix and her team of
volunteers!
We published our fourth Annual Recognition of Giving booklet, which highlighted all the ways
our congregants and staff give of themselves and their dollars to benefit our congregation and
enrich lives. We would like to thank Arlen & Tybe Kitsis for their generous contribution that
made the production of this book possible and Sue Freeman for all of her work writing and
producing this book.
We hosted The Capitol Steps performance at The Orpheum Theater, bringing over 800 people
together to laugh at current political events. Thank you to our Chairs, Sue Oreck & Tami Segal.
Adath‘s Congregational Nurse Program continued to thrive this year due to the generous
sponsorship of Julie and Marc Kozberg.
We would like to thank Rimon: The Minnesota Jewish Arts Council, an initiative of the
Minneapolis Jewish Federation, for providing a grant to help bring the ―All the rest is
commentary…‖ exhibit by artist, Beth Grossman to our Congregation.
We are deeply grateful for the commitment that we received of a three year gift to sponsor our
Senior Scholar Position and the marketing of Adult Education Programing. The generous donor
has asked not to be acknowledged by name. This commitment enables us to continue to
be blessed by Rabbi Barry Cytron's teaching and rabbinic support in that capacity.
We are fortunate to have a very talented staff and lay leaders committed to ensuring we have the
resources to fulfill our mission and vision to maintain and strengthen the Adath Jeshurun Congregation.
We are grateful for the guidance of Lauren Hoffman, Annual Giving Director.
The leadership of the Fundraising and Development committee has been outstanding in setting priorities,
evaluating the best ways to secure an annual giving program and address the overall fundraising efforts
of our congregation. A special thank you to the members of the Fundraising and Development
Committee for their thoughtful participation and commitment: David Bayer, Judy Gaviser, Jeannie
Gilfix, Alan Gingold, Judy Goldstein, Scott Grossfeld, Bonnie Lazar, Laura Lipshutz, David Orbuch, Jill
Orbuch, Michael Oreck, Lon Rosenfield, Barbara Rubin-Greenberg, Heidi Schneider, Rick Siedband,
Craig Spencer, Jeff Usem and Rabbi Harold Kravitz, Bernie Goldblatt, Jennifer Herman Spiller, Rafina
Larsen, and Lauren Hoffman.
Rick Siedband
Chair
17

Finance
The overall purpose of the Finance Committee is to ensure our congregation‘s financial well-being. Our
committee is committed to operating in a fiscally responsible manner, where congregational needs are
balanced against available resources. Through out the year monthly financial statements and updated
annual forecasts are issued to staff, the Finance Committee and members of the Board of Trustees. The
information provided is accurate, consistent and reliable and is used to assess the financial performance
of the various programs and the congregation as a whole. The committee meets regularly in the early
months of our fiscal year, before the budgeting process begins, to understand the various programs
supported by our budget and how they connect to our synagogue community. In early spring staff
prepares budgets for the next fiscal year, and the Finance Committee begins the hard work of
collaborating with lay leaders and staff of the various departments to reconcile the proposed budgets to
available funds.
I am pleased to report that for the eighth year in a row we are projecting a balanced budget. The Board
has approved an approximately $3.7 million operating budget for the 2011-12 year. As part of the
budget process, the Board approved a modest dues increase. The budget is very tight and balancing it
involved give-and-take within the various departments to keep expenses to a minimum, yet still be able
to deliver services and support opportunities for everyone to participate in our community. In the
coming fiscal year we are pleased to be able to lift the salary freeze that has been in effect for the last
two years.
Our congregation owes a debt of gratitude to our Finance Director, Rafina Larsen. Her hard work and
dedication enable us to have accurate, reliable financial information in a timely manner, which is
essential to our sound fiscal status. We are also indebted to our incredibly devoted and talented staff,
which, in spite of the financial challenges they face each day, are able to provide quality services and
programming. I also want to thank members of the Finance Committee. They worked very hard and
have all helped Adath have another successful year.
Chris Kellogg
Treasurer
18

Human Resources
The Human Resources Committee contributes to the integrity of the congregation by ensuring the
development, implementation, and maintenance of sound employment practices.
The committee acts in an advisory capacity to the President and the Board of Trustees regarding issues
dealing with employment policies, practices and procedures. This year, the committee facilitated the
successful two year extension of Rabbi Sadoff's contract.
The committee continues to work hard to support the wonderful staff at Adath. Thank you to all the
congregants that sit on this committee.
Sheila Sigal
Vice President
Membership
The Membership Committee invites and welcomes new members and informs them of opportunities to
grow in Jewish experiences at Adath. This year, we welcomed 43 new households to the congregation.
Several Membership tasks, including delivering of Welcome Gift Bags to new members, have been
implemented as part of the Welcoming and Connectedness Initiative.
We are especially grateful to each of you who have taken the time to welcome a visitor to services, at an
oneg, a Kiddush lunch or at an adult learning event. Your spontaneous outreach makes a memorable
impact on potential members and enhances our reputation as a warm and vibrant community. The
committee looks forward to another year of active outreach to our Adath community.
Carrie Lifland
Vice President
19

Property and Catering
The Property Committee and Facilities Staff had a busy year maintaining the building and working on
the goals that were established at the beginning of the year.
With the assistance of the staff and a consultant we were able to identify the cause of the roof leaks that
enabled rainwater to seep into the ceiling above the spine and the sanctuary. The Property Committee,
including several architects, reviewed the problem and developed some potential solutions. The original
building contractor was notified of our findings and agreed to install a permanent fix at 1/3 rd the cost.
Even after this spring‘s heavy rains, no significant roof leaks were detected.
One of our Adath teen-agers decided to dedicate his Boy Scouts Eagle Scout Project to benefit the Adath
Jeshurun property. David Dotterweich, his scouting peers, and friends, including other Adath members,
spent several week-ends repairing and re-painting the two out-buildings on the land right next to the
entrance. They also cleaned up and beautified the grounds around the buildings. This project improved
the aesthetic appearance of the buildings and grounds as well as reducd the likelihood of vandalism.
The Catering Staff is in the process of updating their menus and literature so they can find a way past
kugel and tuna salad. Our goal is to show off what Adath Catering can do with more pizzazz. The
program of offering pre-cooked take-home Shabbat dinners is starting to grow as more congregants
learn that they can get a great Shabbat meal at a reasonable price without having to prepare it
themselves. Adath Catering has also hit the road by serving lunches and events off-site.
The Adath Property and Inclusion Committees reviewed issues concerning mobility in the spine for
congregants who find the ramp and distance difficult to negotiate. The two committees will be working
together to find creative ways to ensure that all congregants have access to all parts of the facility.
The Adath Property and Etz Chayim Committees are working together to reduce our carbon footprint.
The renewed emphasis on re-cycling combined with the investment that was made last year in
automated ventilation systems has given us a great start.
The next year will present us with new challenges for maintaining the great building that houses our
congregation. We hope to further improve our energy efficiency as we reduce our impact on the
environment.
The Property Committee would like to thank both Bob Simon and Beth Mayerich and their outstanding
staff for another successful year at Adath. Their efforts enable us to house and feed the Adath
community at a high standard while they operate on a tight budget.
Todd Werner
Vice President
20

EDUCATION COMMITTEE
REPORTS
21

Adult Learning
The mission of the Adult Learning Committee is to provide educational and social forums that motivate
and enable learners to build community, to expand their religious consciousness, to deepen their
knowledge and to strengthen their commitment, skills, and observance as members of the Jewish people,
and to grow as human beings.
Reflecting Adath Jeshurun‘s commitment to active engagement in life-long learning, the name Adult
Learning Committee has evolved in recent years from ―Adult Programs‖ to ―Adult Education‖ to ―Adult
Learning‖. This change was instituted to highlight the importance of ongoing learning to Jewish life and
our philosophy of active learning and interactive and participatory study.
The 2010-2011 year has been exciting. Our committee has been active and energetic. Our new
members have added diversity and new perspectives; our continuing members have provided history,
stability, and ongoing commitment. Under our always capable and excellent Director of Adult Learning,
Nina Samuels, we have successfully offered and supported many programs, classes, study groups and
other ―events.‖ Because we know that people learn differently and that certain topics lend themselves
more readily and appropriately to different formats, our programs take different shapes and are held in
different venues. The value of building and strengthening bonds of community is a backdrop to every
adult learning setting.
The following is a summary of some of the Adult Learning opportunities coordinated and presented
offered at Adath Jeshurun this year. Included are examples of the types of programs in the various
categories.
9 ongoing classes, 110 participants
o Biblical and conversational Hebrew; Torah Reading; Kabbalah; Hatan v’Kallah;
Exploration of Judaism
9 synagogue ongoing study groups, 130 participants
o Some have been meeting for many years, and some, such as the Israeli Book Club are
relatively new.
Short educational series, 100-150 participants total, with average of 20-30 in each session
o C.A.M.P., Creative Adult Morning Program. Initially intended primarily for parents of
SMP students but open to all, this program occurs on many Shabbat mornings, offering
the opportunity for people to meet together to discuss issues related to Jewish practice,
thought and parenting.
o Through the Jewish Learning for a Better World Fund, generously provided by Lucy
Rose and Mark Fischer, and the Bertram and Charlotte Cooper Adult Education Fund, we
held the fourth series of three Sunday brunches. This year‘s program, entitled Why
Israel? Why Zionism? was extremely successfully, with important discussions of
sensitive issues that were both respectful and informative. For the first time the series had
community co-sponsorship from the JCRC, the U of M Center for Jewish Studies, and the
Israel Center of the Minneapolis Jewish Federation.
22

Adult Learning - continued
Sampler of Jewish Culture, 150-225 participants
o To combat the dark, cold months of winter, each year the Adult Learning Committee presents
a wonderful program of topics and activities to appeal to a wide variety of interests.
Participants can choose 3 sessions from among an offering of 8- 12 topics. This year, our
highlight was a special presentation of excerpts from the Jewish Film Festival. As usual, the
event was followed by a lovely dessert reception which our committee members provided.
The Summer Sampler, 100 participants
o Minnesota summers are precious; we want to experience the joys of our city in the company
of our chevra (friends). This year, we are co-sponsoring Art From the Heart with the Chesed
Committee. We will also offer an Israeli Dance-inspired contemporary exercise class called
Sababa, and will show 2 videos of the Israeli TV hit, Srugim, which has been compared to
the American TV show Friends. Watch for more information in the Clarion and Chadashot.
Community Collaboration Events, 800 participants
o Interfaith Conversations; Conservative Consortium Pesach Program; U of M Center for
Jewish Studies and other organizations
Age-related activities, 120 participants
o 20s-30s group; Older adult programming
3 Synaplex Shabbatot including a 2-month art exhibit , 60-100 participants per Synaplex plus 500
who hear sermons by guest scholars; projected 150-200 community visitors to art exhibit
Tikkun Lail Shavuot, 80-100 participants
The Adult Learning Department is also responsible for oversight of the synagogue‘s Gross Family
Library. Our librarian Roberta Armel and her volunteers continue to catalogue and update our
collection. Over 750 books were checked out of the library in 2009 (most recent numbers) and the
librarian provided many students and adults with research assistance.
Our vision for the next year is to continue offering the broad range of excellent programming for adults
and also to look beyond where we are now. We hope to engage more of our Kehilla (congregation) in
learning and to provide new and different educational experiences for adults.
Special thanks go to all members of the Adult Learning committee. We are also indebted to the many
volunteers who teach our classes, help in the library, and support our Samplers and Synaplex programs
with their knowledge and wisdom. Finally, thanks again to Nina Samuels and our clergy for their
ongoing support and direction.
Nancy Harold
Vice President
23

Gan Shelanu Preschool had a terrific school year! Exciting events,
poignant tzedakah projects and fun-filled curriculum filled the school year.
Hundreds of people attended the Gan‘s annual Shabbat Dinner and Service,
Mother‘s Day event, Grandparent/Special Person Shabbat and Havdalah and
Sukkot parties. The students also enjoyed a trip to Orchestra Hall for a
Kinderkonzert, singing Hanukkah songs at Knollwood Place and meeting an
author of a newly-released children‘s book. The preKindergarteners had a
great time on their Mystery Fieldtrip—stopping at Heidi‘s restaurant where
they received the grand tour and special treat from four-star chefs!
Tikkun Olam continues to be an important part of the Gan curriculum. Record numbers of families
delivered Rosh Hashanah apple and honey baskets and Purim Shalach Manot to the Adath‘s elderly and
homebound congregants. Gan families collected diapers for the Harriet Tubman Women‘s Shelter,
provided Thanksgiving dinners for low income families and chose holiday toys for children at
Cornerstone Residence. Families also volunteered to light candles during Hanukkah at the Sholom
Home and Roitenberg Residence. The final tzedakah project the children participated in was very
sweet—Gan families donated pajamas to ―Sweet Dreams for Kids‖—a local organization that provides
children with life-threatening illnesses a new pair of pajamas while they are in the hospital.
The Gan continues to have a dedicated and committed group of teachers who give 110% every day—
providing unique learning experiences for their students.
CAMP MISHPACHA—provided fun for our campers from June through August. With themes like
―How Does Your Garden Grow‖, ―1, 2, 3 Science‖, ―Let‘s Go Camping‖ and ―State Fair Fun‖, the kids
enjoyed lots of exciting, new experiences. The campers and counselors once again created a scarecrow
for the annual Scarecrow Contest at the Minnesota State Fair. Their efforts were rewarded when they
won a third place ribbon! (This summer we‘re shooting for the blue ribbon!)
This year the Gan initiated two new exciting programs. A parenting class (Gan Katan), facilitated by
Jodi Rubin, allowed parents and their young toddlers to join together for a morning of discussion and
play. In addition, a Sunday morning Prekindergarten Gan enrichment class was begun—offering a oneday
Jewish ―immersion‖ alternative for families whose children do not attend the Gan during the week.
Gan Shelanu Preschool has been involved in a myriad of fundraisers this school year:
Beginning last summer, over 50 ―balaboostas‖ (female and male—veterans and novices) came to
make thousands of knishes for the Adath‘s annual High Holidays Knish Sale raising over $2,000.
Gan parents produced the first-ever Gan Shelanu Preschool cookbook, ―The Gan Goes Gourmet‖,
featuring recipes from preschool families and staff. It was a huge hit.
Once again, the Gan community sponsored the second annual Matzoh Brie Breakfast. Gan dads
volunteered to cook the matzoh brie and over 300 people attended this wonderful event! All
expenses were underwritten for the Breakfast and over $1,000 was raised.
Before Hanukkah, the Gan sold Hanukkah candles made in Israel.
The year‘s fundraising efforts ended with a night at the store, ―Hot Mama‖. Gan families enjoyed an
evening of shopping and schmoozing and a percentage of all profits was awarded to the Gan.
Gan Shelanu is extremely fortunate to have so many parents, grandparents, special friends and former
Gan families care so deeply about the school.
Janice Schachtman
Gan Shelanu Preschool Director
24

Inclusion
The Inclusion Committee is continuing the work on issues with accessibility within the synagogue.
Earlier this year Marlee Kivens started work with Bob Simon on a few accessibility issues. The
Inclusion Committee brought handrail concerns to the Building and Property Committee. We are
having a positive experience working with Todd Werner and look forward to working with the Property
Committee to improve accessibility at Adath for all congregants.
In May we invited Caring Connections to participate in a Carbelach Shabbat. Caring Connections
provides opportunities for Jewish adults with developmental disabilities to connect with their faith
community and take part in Jewish life and learn about holidays and traditions. Caring Connections is a
joint effort of JFCS, Jewish Family Service of St. Paul, the St. Paul JCC, and the Sabes JCC.
For Jewish Disabilities Awareness Month of 2011, a community-wide event was held at the the Sabes
JCC on Sunday, February 27. With Adath as one of the co-sponsors, a documentary called Wretches and
Jabberers, was screened for the entire community, free of charge. In this movie, two men with autism
embark on a global quest to change attitudes about disability and intelligence. Determined to put a new
face on autism, Tracy Thresher (42), and Larry Bissonnette (52) travel to Sri Lanka, Japan, and Finland.
At each stop, they dissect public attitudes about autism and issue a hopeful challenge to reconsider
competency and the future. At Adath, Jewish Disabilities Awareness Month was recognized at Shabbat
services on February 5 when Rabbi Kaufman gave a D‘var Torah relating to disability. Later in the year,
Shelly Christensen offered a parent discussion at CAMP on ―Parenting for Maximum Inclusion: The
Blessings and Challenges‖. In April, Adath co-sponsored a Disability Seder at Bnai Emet Synagogue.
In May, Marlee Kivens stepped down as Inclusion Chair and Paula Fox started as the new Inclusion
Chair. We are in the process of updating the Inclusion Committee visioning process and planning
programming for the 2011-2012 year, including activities for Jewish Disability Awareness Month in
February, 2012.
We are grateful to Rabbi Kaufman for serving as our liaison to the Adath staff and appreciate all the
support she has given us. She has been a strong advocate for inclusion and has inspired us with her
enthusiasm, knowledge, and creative ideas. We wish her well on her new endeavors.
Marlee Kivens
Chair
25

Jewish Life and Learning
L‘Dor Vador - our congregation provides a continuum of Jewish enrichment for every member of Adath
Jeshurun, in order to support informed life-long Jewish identification, participation in the Jewish
community, and personal spiritual growth. We provide strong and varied educational opportunities
through multiple means of access: formal and informal; learning and training; programs designed for
spiritual and ethical growth; holiday programming in support of clergy … all with a strong emphasis on
community-building and volunteerism.
From infancy through adulthood we offer a rich array of learning opportunities- preschool programming,
b‘nai mitzvah training, Shabbat teaching opportunities for teens and adults, youth programs, USY,
college outreach and adult learning – something for everyone. Through our programs and classes we
strive to foster strong relationships with G-d, Torah, Israel, the Jewish Community and the world at
large.
Rabbi Lilly Kaufman has, in her three years as the holder of the Berman Family Chair in Jewish
Learning, enriched our congregation with her educational skills, leadership, strategic planning,
enthusiasm and depth of knowledge. Rav todot (many thanks) to Rabbi Kaufman who has embraced our
vision, and worked to realize the educational possibilities of SMP, B‘Yachad, and a cohesive, integrated
educational system. We will miss her as our Director of Jewish Learning and wish her great success in
her new endeavors. We continue to be grateful to Theresa Berman and her family for establishing this
permanent endowment – the Berman Family Chair in Jewish Learning.
The Jewish Life and Learning Cabinet fosters collaboration and communication to leverage success
across all educational departments, and with our education partners, Talmud Torah and the HMJDS.
Staff and lay leadership are responsible for the extensive educational programs that are offered
throughout the year in our congregation as well as their participation on the Jewish Life and Learning
Cabinet. Their commitment, professionalism and skill are recognized and greatly valued. We are
indebted to this year‘s cabinet members who have given so much of their time, knowledge and passion
to benefit our congregation‘s learning environment:
Cabinet Leadership: Barbara Rubin-Greenberg, VP Jewish Life and Learning, Rabbi Lilly
Kaufman, Director of Jewish Learning
Clergy: Rabbi Harold Kravitz, Rabbi Yonatan Sadoff, Cantor Scott Buckner
Adult Learning: Nancy Harold, VP of Adult Learning; Nina Samuels, Adult Learning Director
Primary Education: Jeannie Gilfix, VP of Primary Education; Janice Schachtman, Gan Shelanu
Director; Rabbi Kaufman, DJL, and Toby Koritsky, Director, B‘Yachad Sunday School
Secondary Education: Lon Rosenfield, VP of Secondary Education; Rabbi Kaufman, DJL, and
Steve Mintz, Director of Tefillah, Shabbat Morning Program; Elisabeth Wells, Youth Director;
Terri Gordon and Hindy Tankenoff, Youth Commission Co-Chairs; Randi Wolfish, Young Adult
Outreach Chair; Todd Werner, past VP of Secondary Education
26

Jewish Life and Learning – continued
Constituent Committees: Marlee Kivens, Inclusion Chair; Debra Krawetz, Keruv Chair; Chris
Kellogg, VP of Finance; Lonny Goldsmith, VP Communications; Amy Newman and Lauren
Segelbaum, Synaplex Co-Chairs; Sheila Sigel, VP Human Resources; and Ed Zeman, Talmud
Torah Liaison
Member At Large: Jeff Raison
Officer: Mike Greenstein, President
Ritual Recognition: Each Simchat Torah, two congregants are honored for their inspiring service and
dedication to the congregation. This year we recognized Sue Kane, our Kallat Torah, with the honor of
the final aliyah in Devarim (Deuteronomy) and Jeannie Gilfix, our Kallat Bereshit, with the first aliyah
in Bereshit (Genesis). They both have enriched our congregation by their volunteerism, commitment
and leadership.
Honorees:
2002 Irv Nudell and Mike Greenstein
2003 Dina and Max Elkin and Ellen Sue Parker
2004 Don Masler and Todd Werner
2005 Bruce Nemer and Joel Green
2006 Lon Rosenfield and Leslie Gotlieb
2007 Matt Gilfix and Roni Gingold
2008 Carol Bromer and Sue Oreck
2009 Alan Gingold and Scott Grossfield
2010 Jeannie Gilfix and Sue Kane
Barbara Rubin-Greenberg
Vice President
27

Noah’s Ark
Noah's Ark had a very successful year and greatly appreciate the involvement of Rabbi Sadoff, Rabbi
Kravitz, Cantor Buckner and Rabbis‘ Associate Jim Sherman. Special thanks to song leader Amanda
Awend, who became our regular music leader, and inspired adults and children alike with her wonderful
music and warm manner. This year's programs included Shabbat dinners followed by services, Simchat
Torah dinner and our annual new baby Shabbat.
Elyse Goldsmith and Krista Margolis
Co-chairs
Noah‘s Ark participants are families with young children, age birth through five
years old. While there are many "regulars" who attend our programs, there were
always new families attending the service and the dinners.
Primary Education
The Primary Education Committee oversees all of our congregation‘s educational programming for
children from birth to 4th grade and their families. Our committee had several meetings this year that
covered the topics of children‘s high holiday programming, budgeting priorities, planning for the
creation of a B‘Yachad Parent Association, and new social programming for children ages kindergarten
– 4th grade and their families. With the incredible organization and support of our volunteer event
chairs, the committee helped to develop three wonderful and engaging programs. We hosted a
kindergarten-4 th grade Shabbat dinner in the fall, chaired by Sara Saferstein and Julie Ziessman, a
Winter Movie Night, chaired by Nancy Gendler and Pam Kermisch, and a spring Family Mitzvah
Makers program, chaired by Debbie Goldenberg and Nancy Getzkin. This was a wonderful working
committee with highly-committed members who were able to identify the key issues facing this group,
as well as to think ―outside the box‖ and come up with ideas for innovative and engaging programs.
B’YACHAD
This year our new B’Yachad Director, Toby Koritsky, brought new curricula to B‘Yachad,
strengthening the substance of our programming dramatically. This coincided with an exciting jump in
enrollments, from 51 to 71 children from 2009-10 to 2010-2011!
We are delighted with the new staff Toby hired last summer: Carol Hjulberg in Kindergarten,
Barb Weil in First Grade, and Assistant Teacher Susanne Silverman in First Grade. Together with
existing teachers Susan Becker, Noam Zedaka (Kindergarten), and Dan Geller (Second Grade), and
Laurie Herstig (Music and Tefillah) we had an exceptional staff this year.
At B‘Yachad we also provide an opportunity for teens to give back to the community, and to
learn about teaching. This year our teen madrichim (leaders) were: Maddie and Grace Ansel, Hannah
Gilfix, Gabe Herstig, Sammi Phillips, Samantha Tankenoff, and Michael Wittenberg.
Three Family Programs were held this year, including a very lovely new program about the
Shema. ‗The best Model Seder EVER‘, were the reviews for our annual Pesach event, which was the
liveliest and most interactive Seder any of us had ever attended! Kids were still abuzz about it at school
the next day! At a school meeting, held mid-year, two of the children‘s suggestions to Toby about how
we can improve B‘Yachad were: ―Can we have it during the week?‖ and ―Make it longer!‖ Kol hakavod
to Toby and to our staff for a wonderful year!
28

Primary Education - continued
SHABBAT/HOLIDAY PROGRAMMING FOR CHILDREN KINDERGARTEN – 4 TH GRADE
Havaya K'tana - This is a twice a month program for kindergarten-4th graders on Shabbat mornings.
Tamar Fenton makes Judaism come alive for the kids with interactive projects, stories, music and
games in the best Adath tradition of informal education. Jewish holidays, prayer, Jewish concepts, the
Torah portion, Jewish values are learned effortlessly and effectively. We routinely attracted between 8-
15 participants in the Kitsis Foyer (the open seating area between the Sanctuary and Social Hall). We
conclude each session with the children marching in the Torah procession around the Sanctuary before it
was returned to the Ark, greeting congregants and inspiring smiles all around.
We extend special recognition to Tamar Fenton, who has worked at Adath since 2004, sharing her
creativity and love for Judaism with our K-4 children on Shabbat at Havaya K'tana and on the Three
Festivals at L'Dor VaDor. We will still enjoy her presence at Spirit & Song this Rosh Hashanah (Day
Two).
L'dor V'dor (from Generation to Generation) - This is our inter-generational program which attracts
grandparents and grandchildren, and parents and other special grown-ups are always welcome. Also run
by Tamar Fenton, L'dor V'dor takes place on Sukkot, Pesach, and Shavuot and takes place from
10:00-11:30 AM. Through art, food, and activities, families create lasting memories around these
holidays, continuing the wonderful atmosphere of informal learning that takes place on Shabbat in
Havaya K‘tana.
Gimel Family Shabbat Service – We held 3 Gimel Shabbat Morning Family Services this year. These
services are held in the Chapel and are participatory and lively. Parents joined us in a condensed yet
meaningful service, led with panache and flair by Rabbi Sadoff, Laurie Herstig (on guitar) and Julie
Dean (on drums). Families sang, danced, and were fully engaged in this celebration of Shabbat. Gimel
was visited by Abraham, Moses, and Theodor Herzl, all of whom looked remarkably like Rabbi Sadoff.
We are planning six Gimel Services next year!
HIGH HOLY DAY SERVICES FOR YOUNG FAMILIES
Gimel Family Service on the First Day of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur
Once again, Steve Mintz and Rabbi Sadoff provided fun High Holy Day services to a standing-room
crowd for our young families, with lots of chances for children and parents to participate. We thank
them, and all the Torah readers, for their terrific work inspiring our community and bringing us together
to start the new year right.
New in 2010! - This year we added a wonderfully exciting program on the Second Day of Rosh
Hashanah called Spirit & Song! Over 300 adults and young children participated in this musical
and spiritual experience, created by Tamar Fenton and Laurie Herstig. Featuring a rockin‘ band
comprised of Laurie Herstig (guitar and vocals), Ivan Bonk (bass), Michael Raymond (drums); children
on bells; a beautiful story told by Bobby Zelle; and the effortless and enthusiastic m.c. work of David
Orbuch and Tamar Fenton; we drew on-lookers from all over Adath! Following Spirit & Song, we had
the highest-ever turn-out of young families for Tashlich at the lake. We gave the second day of the New
Year refreshing and meaningful new life!
29

Primary Education - continued
HIGH HOLY DAY PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN
Happy Birthday World (24 months-pre-K)
This wonderful program for our youngsters from 24 months to pre-K is an Adath classic, run with great
loving care by Janice Schachtman, and her crew of teachers and teens. It is available during services on
Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, and gives our parents the peace of mind to attend services, knowing
their children are well cared-for, and learning a little something besides!
Turning A New Leaf (K-4)
This small and lovely program of the first day of Rosh Hashanah and on Yom Kippur for children in
Grades K-4, allows them to explore themes of the High Holy Days using crafts and games that are
holiday-appropriate.
Honey Bees (K-4)
This interactive program on the Second Day of Rosh Hashanah begins with baking challah in the round,
traditional shape for the holiday, or any shape a child can think of! It‘s a hard call who enjoys this more,
the children or the teens, who tend to eat the raw challah dough, but save enough for the children. Quiet
games and gaga keep the kids busy while their parents are in services.
Jeannie Gilfix
Vice President
30

Secondary Education
Saturday Morning Program (SMP): Our efforts this past year were dedicated to strengthening the
quality and effectiveness of the SMP program while broadening its perspective. Our goal was to
increase not only the skills but the interest of the staff and students in the material that was taught. We
also strove to create a learning community of pre-teens, teens, and adults.
Skills training: Special thanks to Rabbi Kaufman and Etta Bernstein for paying special attention to the
standards of Hebrew pronunciation in the 5 th grade Tefillah class. Thank you to Drea Lear, Elisabeth
Wells, Jeannie Gilfix, Andy Cook, Avi Baron, Todd Werner and Joy Sandler for raising the level of
learning and helping students pursue mitzvah goals, a very successful initiative new this year. Thanks to
teens, who stepped forward in numbers greater than ever to help lead prayers at SMP Tefilla.
Deepening the interest, creating a learning community: thanks to all our adult classroom teachers and
teen staff, and special thanks to Leslie Gotlieb for revamping Community Time, interactive games,
stories, and learning with which we began our SMP programs this year. I owe special thanks to Rabbi
Kaufman for her vision in creating the challenging Yedidut class, in which 5 th graders learn the structure
of the Shabbat Morning Service, and how to discover meaning in its prayers.
Youth Commission: Thanks to Elisabeth Wells for continuing to lead our award winning program to
loftier heights. Special commendation to Avi Baron, whose USY web site was awarded ―Best in
Region‖, and to Ben Usem, who will be the next USY Regional President. Rosh Hodesh—it‘s a girls‘
thing, continues to create life-long bonds among its participants while deepening their Jewish
commitment. Next fall we hope to initiate ―The Brotherhood‖ program for boys.
Finally, rav todot (many thanks) to Rabbi Kaufman who, together with Steve Mintz and Risa Kessler,
has envisioned what SMP could be, and has worked tirelessly to make her vision a reality.
Lon Rosenfield
Vice President
31

65 Plus Senior Programming
Adath 65-plus Senior Programming is directed to active seniors 65 and over, men and women, couples
and singles. It replaces the former ―Over the Hillside Group‖ and ―Adath Hillsiders‖. A dual challenge
for senior adult programming at Adath is to keep older adults engaged as they age, and at the same time
to draw in new and younger ―older adult‖ participants. We are making modest gains in both directions.
At some point the congregation may want to start a new Hazak group, which is the senior program
model from United Synagogue.
In October 2010 senior adults enjoyed an all-day Fall Get-Away featuring a national commentator on
politics and elections, Professor David Schultz of Hamline University. This annual event took place at
Mount Olivet Retreat Center in Farmington, Minnesota. The group also enjoyed an Israel update from a
JCRC representative, comedy with Gloria Fredkove, current events discussion with Bill Aberman,
stories from Jerry Siegel, line dancing, and conversation with Rabbi Kravitz. Attendance was higher
than ever, including new and younger participants. Funding from the Silverman and Karasov Funds in
the Adath Foundation helped to keep the retreat affordable, and a generous private donation made
possible the use of a chartered bus at no extra charge.
Adath senior adults also enjoyed a luncheon on the last day of Pesach, with entertainment provided by
a puppeteer from In the Heart of the Beast Puppet Theatre. For the first time this annual luncheon and
program was open to the entire congregation, without charge, and publicized to all ages, in cooperation
with the Havaya L‘dor V‘dor event for grandparents and grandchildren. It allowed for a dynamic
intergenerational mix of participants and was quite well received.
Adath‘s 65 Plus Senior Programming also includes the Etzion Study Group which meets monthly from
September through May for interesting and lively discussions on issues that relate to our individual and
communal lives, plus relaxed socializing with friends. The discussions center on current books, essays
and articles that have Jewish themes or interests, and are led by Rabbis‘ Associate Jim Sherman. Several
new participants joined this group in the past year, and more would be welcome in the coming term.
Adath 65-plus Senior Programming activities are open to all Adath members and to the community.
Adath’s Outreach Caring Community: Yad Sima Tova has a transportation program that makes it
possible for Adath members who need assistance to receive a ride to these events. A call to our
transportation phone number, 952-215-3937, will secure a ride upon request.
Nina Samuels
Staff Liaison
32

Synaplex
Synaplex has completed yet another successful year! We had three Synaplex weekends which all had
outstanding congregational participation. We started with a Hanukkah themed weekend in December,
moved on to a social action weekend in February, and ended with the kick off of artist Beth Grossman‘s
two month long ―All the Rest is Commentary...‖ exhibit.
At our December Synaplex, ―Learning, Life and Latkes—a Synaplex Hanukkah Weekend!‖, we
welcomed Rabbi Stuart Kelman, founder of the first ―green‖ cemetery and his wife, Vicky Kelman, a
leading Jewish educator, as Adath‘s Numero-Steinfeldt Scholars. This weekend was co-sponsored with
the Adath Chesed Shel Emes Cemetery and the Chevra Kavod Hamet both of which provided additional
financial support. Julie Zeissman and Keri Bahar were the co-chairs for the weekend.
In February, Paula Fox and Judi Tennebaum co-chaired the Synaplex theme, ―Yes We Can! Synaplex
Explores Ways to Make a Difference‖. This informative weekend was co-sponsored by the Adath
Jeshurun Hesed Committee and Jewish Community Action. Members of Jewish Community Action
assisted with the break out sessions and Representative Frank Hornstein gave the D‘var Torah.
Finally, we ended our year on an extremely high note with our April Synaplex weekend, ―Art as Text,
Text as Dialogue, a multicultural conversation‖, with artist Beth Grossman. Beth brought her ―All the
Rest is Commentary...‖ exhibit to Adath Jeshurun to be shared with the community through June. This
exhibit was made possible by a generous grant from Rimon: The Minnesota Jewish Arts Council,
TAMID, and the Interfaith Conversations Project of the Jay Phillips Center for Interfaith Learning.
In addition to the exhibit we had a multicultural conversation with Rabbi Amy Eilberg, Zafar Siddiqui,
President of the Islamic Resource Group and Beth Grossman. The weekend was co-chaired by Sharon
Stillman and Suzanne Fenton.
This year we continued with the Shabbat morning coffeehouse, offering Equal Exchange fair trade
coffee and conversation weekly during services.
We continued to promote Synaplex weekend activities through the Clarion, Chadashot and the
synagogue website.
We are extremely grateful to every person who contributed to the success of Synaplex this year. The
benefit of active participation by Adath members was evident to everyone who enjoyed the weekends, as
was the sense of community experienced by volunteers. People gave generously of themselves. They did
so across all ages, groups, and interests, coming together in the synagogue on Shabbat to strengthen our
Adath community.
If you are interested in being part of next year‘s Synaplex programs, please contact
jill.orbuch@gmail.com. Your suggestions and active participation are welcome!
Amy Newman and Lauren Segelbaum
Co-Chairs
33

Young Adult Outreach Program
Participation in our Young Adult Outreach Program is open to those between the ages of 18 - 24. This
year, we had 64 young adults registered in our program. The program helps to strengthen the
connection these young adults have with the Adath. Four times a year packages are sent to the
participants: on the High Holidays, Hanukkah, Purim and Passover. The packages contain holiday
themed items and foodstuffs, e.g. hamentashen. In addition to receiving these packages, the young
adults also get holiday emails from the Rabbi. This year, we conducted a survey to try and measure the
successfulness of the program. One student wrote “I love them (the packages and emails). It feels
really good knowing that I'm still part of the community that I grew up in.” Another student wrote, “It is
nice to know Adath still has us in mind and the holiday packages were a nice reminder of home and
family.”
Thank you to all the parent volunteers who helped to package the holiday boxes and to those who helped
bake the dozens of hamentashens. Your efforts were very much appreciated by our young adults!
Randi Wolfish and Susie Kane
Co-chairs
Youth Department
As the young people of Adath embark on their unique Jewish Journeys, it is the role of the Youth
Department to provide them with substantive Jewish experiences to help guide their way. Our programs
aspire to be creative, inspirational, transformational, and spiritual. At Adath USY we try to incorporate
Shabbat and Jewish holidays, Israel, tikun olam, social action, and plenty of fun into our programming.
Another program that the Youth Department has is Rosh Hodesh: It’s a Girl Thing! - a program of
Moving Traditions, (www.roshhodesh.org). It is a contemporary monthly celebration of the ancient New
Moon holiday for girls in grades 7-12 that builds self-esteem, leadership skills, and Jewish identity.
USY offers teens the opportunity for travel, leadership and friendship with Jewish youth through
regional, national and international experiences such as weekend retreats – Encampment (New this
summer with 3 other regions; CHUSY, CRUSY, and SWUSY), LTI (leadership training institute),
Kinnus, International Convention, Winter Shabbaton, Kadima Kinnus, Spring Kallah, and CMT
(Chapter Membership Training) -- and summer trips such as USY Israel Pilgrimage and USY on
Wheels. This summer we have five members participating in a USY Israel program!
Our chapter is also active at the regional level: The Regional President for 2011-2012 is our own Ben
Usem, and we will have Adath USYers helping to plan regional/international conventions (not including
CMT), as well as having many who will be participating in other areas on the Regional General Board.
34

Youth Department – continued
This past year USYers were also involved in other Jewish and wider community activities:
Helped residents at Knollwood Place celebrate the holidays with a
personal visit and gift basket.
Led monthly Kabbalat Shabbat services at the Sholom Home West.
Raised over $750 in tzedakah money for Tikkun Olam
Adopted 2 soldiers serving in Israel on the ―Lone Soldiers‖ program
Adath USY is a recognized chapter of excellence throughout the USA, and
received over three awards at the last regional convention, Spring Kallah.
Fundraising activities for the Youth Department this past year included the USY play and the Purim
carnival. The Adath musical this year was ―Grease‖. The show had over 40 USYers and Kadimaniks
and it was a wonderful production. The talents of Adath USY are infinite!
The Youth Department relies on the support of the entire congregation. Whether it's by placing an ad in
the annual playbook, attending the musical, or other contributions, that support allows us to keep
providing our teens with meaningful programs. It was another amazing year and we look forward to all
of our successes next year as well.
Elisabeth Wells
LEONARD & CLARA SAVITT YOUTH DIRECTOR CHAIR
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36

STANDING AND AD HOC
COMMITTEE
REPORTS
37

20s/30s Kvutzah
Adath‘s new 20's 30's Kvutzah is a group of Adath couples and singles in their twenties and thirties who
get to know fellow members of our congregation through sharing Jewish holidays, social events and
informal Jewish education. Our goal is to reach out to many more people this coming year and offer
them a warm invitation to get involved with the synagogue and an opportunity to get to know their peers
better. We hope to increase our scope and reach for next year in order to connect more people in this age
group and expand our events. Here‘s a list of our fun-filled activities from this past year:
Lake Harriet Potluck Picnic - Kabbalat Shabbat musical service and picnic potluck. This was our first
event. More than 50 people attended. Steve Mintz (on guitar) and Rabbi Sadoff led a joyful Shabbat
Service .
Sukkot Party - Rabbi Sadoff hosted a really fun party in his purple sukkah. We had food, drinks and
learned a little too!
Seven Stars Coffee House - Relaxed evening of coffee and conversation. We had a modest turnout but
had a very nice time and opportunity to get to know a few of our members better.
The Interfaith Community Collaborative (Adath and SPARK 20/30s). We had several members that
came to help us volunteer at STEP foodshelves.
The Shout House - Fun night filled with ROCK 'N ROLL / SING-A-LONG / DUELING PIANOS.
Hanukkah Celebration - Rabbi Kravitz hosted. Candle lighting, singing, drinks and latkas, dreidel
games, and more! We had a very good turnout and a very successful event.
Casino Night – We went as an Adath group to the Jewish Federation's Young Leadership Annual Casino
Night at Oak Ridge Country Club-what a blast!
Adath 20's 30's Learn How To Make Sushi Event - This was our best event. We had a sushi chef come to
our house and teach us how to make sushi. Part cooking class; part mixer.
Purim Party – We attended the Megillah Reading at the Synagogue. 20's/30's had a reserved table. After
the Adath party we went to the Indie Jews Purim celebration at the 331 Club.
Movie Night – We attended the Minneapolis Jewish Film Festival to view "The Matchmaker".
Shabbat Dinner at Rabbi Sadoff’s house - Special Shabbat evening filled with food, singing, talk and
even a little bit of Torah.
Lag B’Omer Bonfire+ BBQ – Rained out, but our spirit isn‘t dampened. We plan to reschedule in June.
Art, Cheese + Wine at Adath – tour of Beth Grossman‘s exhibit with a wine and cheese reception.
Veronica Sirotin & Wesley Gagnelius
Co-chairs
38

Cemetery
It is said that the first obligation of a Jewish community is to establish a cemetery. Our cemetery, Adath
Chesed Shel Emes, is located at 3800 Winnetka Avenue North in Crystal. Now even Google maps
knows its name and location!
Adath Chesed Shel Emes Cemetery along with the Chevra Kavod co-sponsored a Synaplex weekend in
December. We helped bring in Rabbi Stuart Kelman from Berkley California to speak on several topics
of interest to the community and the cemetery. Rabbi Kelman was the lead consultant for the first Green
Jewish Cemetery in the country. Rabbi Kelman‘s discussions were very thought provoking and
informative. These discussions will help us as we move forward creating a green burial area of our own
at Adath Chesed Shel Emes Cemetery.
The Cemetery began implementing the first phase of its beautification project. We are trying to create a
more beautiful and functional cemetery. We have created family estate areas, and new lots as well as
adding some additional landscaping around our existing areas. We are thankful for Paul ―Buddy‖ Pink‘s
guidance through this process.
We have also decided to purchase a cemetery software package under the research of Joe Peilte. This
software will enable the cemetery to more efficiently store information (location, family members,
obituaries, etc.) and help us with cemetery mailings.
The Cemetery has two major events during the year, our Memorial Day service and our Kever Avot
service. These events could not go on without the efforts of Hersh Berman, our Treasurer and Event
Coordinator and longest standing board member. Todah rabah and yasher koach to Hersh for his
tremendous efforts.
Even during all this planning, the Cemetery continues to fulfill the burial needs of our community. It is
the most active Jewish Cemetery in the Twin Cities. We also provide free or reduced-price burials to
needy families.
We are always available to discuss the traditions of honoring our loved ones, selection of a plot, the
opportunity to support Cemetery plans for the future, or other questions. Feel free to contact any of our
members or our superintendent, Michael Morris, 612-998-0077.
Joe Lifland
Chair
39

Adath‘s nationally-recognized, award-winning Chevra Kavod Hamet (Society to Honor the Deceased)
was founded over 35 years ago by congregants who wanted to help other congregants. The Chevra
provides comfort and support to bereaved families, while honoring the deceased by providing a
traditional Jewish funeral for any Adath member upon request. Chevra funerals are simple, dignified,
and provided at a modest cost. Volunteers contribute their time and talents to administrative tasks,
education, outreach, or ritual participation, whatever is comfortable for them.
The Chevra Kavod Hamet was honored to co-sponsor the Synaplex Hanukkah Weekend ―Learning, Life
and Latkes‖ on December 3 – 5, 2010, with Rabbi Stuart Kelman and Vicky Kelman as our Numero-
Steinfeldt Scholars. In Rabbi Kelman‘s presentation to members of the Chevra on December 5 he
acknowledged the importance of Adath's Chevra, led study on the liturgy of the ritual of Taharah and
inspired us to consider how we can make the Chevra more a part of the continuum of congregational life
in the minds of congregants.
On 7 Adar (2/10/2011), the traditional day to celebrate the Chevra Kadisha, Rabbi Kravitz convened a
meeting with representatives of various departments and programs at Adath, including the Chevra
Kavod Hamet, to begin discussion of how we could collaborate better with each other to develop the
continuum of care at the end of life envisioned by Rabbi Kelman, from Bikkur Cholom to Tahara to
leaving a legacy for survivors.
Informational material on the Chevra is available on the Adath website, a Chevra brochure can be found
in the brochure racks and ―The Plain Pine Box,‖ a documentary about the Chevra and its work is
available in the Adath library in video, DVD, and book format. Join the hundreds of Adath members
who provide meaningful emotional and spiritual consolation to those who have experienced a loss. For
more information, for presentations to your committee, group or Chavura, or to volunteer, please contact
Cindy Dubansky at 612.866.2297, cld7214@gmail.com, or Bruce Nemer at 612.701.7089.
Cindy Dubansky and Bruce Nemer
Roshei Administration
40

Etz Chayim - Adath's Environmental Initiative
Mission Statement:
To generate awareness and action in the Congregation regarding the
connection between Judaism and environmental stewardship.
Goals:
1. Educate congregants regarding the Jewish tenets on environmental
sustainability and stewardship.
2. Inspire Congregants to adopt more earth friendly practices by providing the tools to evaluate
and reduce their energy consumption and waste generation.
3. Evaluate and enhance Adath‘s environmental sustainability and stewardship
Committee Initiatives FY2010-11
1. Sponsored the Tu B'Shevat Oneg Shabbat for the congregation and the Sunday morning B‘yachad
program.
2. Continuing efforts to reduce waste generation in the synagogue: 1) installing recycling containers for
paper, glass and cans around the synagogue and 2) researching the feasibility of composting organic
food and waste in the Gan and Adath kitchens.
3. Continuing the Adath/Easybean/ICA Foodshelf partnership for a third year to provide Adath families
an opportunity to purchase farm shares from Easybean Farm as well as donate farm shares directly to
ICA Foodshelf in Minnetonka.
4. Building a community garden on the Adath property. Produce will be used by the Gan and the Adath
kitchens and donations to local food shelves.
5. Working with other synagogues and faith-based organizations to expand environmental initiatives
beyond the Adath community. Co-sponsored the first Twin Cities Jewish EcoSummit with the JCRC
and other Twin Cities Jewish organizations. Presentation topics included green technologies and
products, energy conservation, CSAs, recycling, etc. Focus of the Summit was to bring people
together to share ideas and resources for greening their respective institutions.
6. Sponsoring a dinner at Our Savior‘s Shelter this summer. Plan to use food from the CSA for the
dinner.
Past Activities FY2009-2010
1. Continued the Adath/Easybean/ICA Foodshelf partnership for a second year, which provided
Adath families an opportunity to purchase farm shares from Easybean Farm as well as donate
farm shares directly to ICA Foodshelf in Minnetonka. Approximately 50 families purchased
farm shares this year. The ICA Foodshelf received $1,050 and 2,020 pounds of fresh produce
from Adath CSA members this season.
41

Etz Chayim – continued
2. Co-sponsored the March Synaplex: Jews, Food and Planet Earth with guest speaker Nigel
Savage, Founder and Director of Hazon. Activities included Friday night dinner, Eco-Judaism
and the Art of Bicycle Maintenance, a panel discussion on rain gardens, composting, and solar
energy; and Lunch and Learn, Environmental Issues for Environmental Skeptics.
3. Sponsored an Outdoor Kabbalat Shabbat service and picnic for Adath families. Approximately
40 people attended the outdoor service and picnic.
4. Co-sponsored a cooking demonstration with the Adult Learning Committee titled, ―From Farm
to Fork‖ taught by Jenny Breen. Jenny Breen is an active part of the Twin Cities sustainable food
movement. From 1996-2001 she was chef and co-owner of Good Life Cafe and since then has
co-run Good Life Catering. The session was well attended.
5. Sponsored the congregational Oneg Shabbat on Tu B'Shevat. Provided fruits and nuts associated
with Israel and the observance of holiday.
6. Etz Chayim committee members worked with Adath staff to eliminate the use of plastics and
other disposables at food-related events. Work continued to increase recycling efforts throughout
the synagogue.
Carol Sarnat and Jonathan London
Co-chairs
42

Hesed
Hesed Committee is an umbrella structure for social justice projects ranging from
direct service to advocacy. The values on which Hesed Committee has focused
its support predominantly involve hunger, affordable housing, and children. Our
goal is to encourage broad participation among our congregation in support of
Hesed‘s work through active participation and financial support.
Hunger: Hesed represents Adath Jeshurun on the Boards of ICA (Joan Weinstein, Larry Sholler) and
on STEP (Joy Sandler), food shelf and social service agencies for Minnetonka and St. Louis Park,
respectively. The Project Isaiah Food Drive at the High Holidays also benefits STEP. Donations are
provided to the programs of Our Saviour‘s Shelter (Deborah and Bob Smith) where over 40 people are
fed monthly and Concerned Jewish Congregations at Loaves and Fishes (Betty Jonas). Adath
congregants regularly serve meals at these inner city sites. Hesed provides additional support for a
Christmas Dinner at St. Stephens Church. Adath congregants are encouraged to donate 3% of the total
cost of their simcha to MAZON, and there is a special appeal at Passover for donations to MAZON
(Jaye Snyder).
Affordable Housing: Hesed continues its long-term support for JCA (Melissa Rudnick) and MICAH
(Aaron Parker), community advocacy groups for affordable housing as well as other social justice
issues. Financial support to JFCS‘s Emergency Food and Shelter Fund is provided. Hesed members are
involved with affordable housing task forces in Minnetonka and Edina. Through the Adath Foundation,
Hesed has funds, at a local community bank, which support community reinvestment loans for
homeownership, home improvements, and small business loans in the inner city.
Children: Hesed provides a Key Advocate (Sandy Glassman, Paula Fox) and financial support to
ICAN (Interfaith Children's Advocacy Network), formerly known as Congregations Concerned for
Children, which works on behalf of children living in poverty and violence. Hesed contributes to
Passage Community, a transitional support for women and their children moving into employment. A
Hesed member (Michelle Basman) helps with promotional brochures for Avenues for Homeless Youth
in North Minneapolis.
Hesed Supports:
The annual Pushke Project (Ed Goldsmith) raised funds which this year were contributed to the STEP
Capital Campaign to help pay off the mortgage on STEP‘s new building. In a very successful campaign,
$1249.58 was raised, and this amount was matched by the Morning Minyan Fund.
Hesed supports JCRC Justice Squared projects (Beth Silverwater) in the areas of hunger, clothing,
affordable housing, and literacy.
Hesed has participated (Leslie Goldblatt) in the Hechscher Tzedek initiative formed by Rabbi Allen of
Beth Jacob Congregation working to develop standards for employees working in kosher food plants.
Nechama organizes volunteers to respond to natural disasters and is supported by a Hesed contribution
and volunteers from the congregation.
Hesed provides funds to the North American Conference on Ethiopian Jewry (NACOEJ) (Harlan
Jacobs). NACOEJ helps Ethiopian Jews survive in Ethiopia, assists them in reaching Israel, aids in their
absorption into Israeli society, and preserves their unique and ancient culture.
43

Hesed - continued
Hesed supports the Joint Religious Legislative Coalition (JRLC) which strives for social justice in
Minnesota by proposing and promoting responsible legislation.
Hesed participates in the Minnesota Interfaith Darfur Coalition (Brad Lehrman), a grassroots
organization comprised of faith based groups, human rights and social action organizations, and students
committed to ending the humanitarian crisis created by the genocide in the Darfur region of Sudan.
Special Funds: Three funds in the Adath Foundation are managed by the Hesed Committee. The
interest from these funds helps support Hesed Committee activities. The Linda Weber Mitzvah Fund
(Becky Gray) is directed towards education and advocacy for families and children at risk. The Ferne
and Edward Grosmann Social Action Fund has been used to support STEP. The Paula and Norman
Fox Hesed Fund supports the areas of housing, hunger, and the well being of children.
The Hesed Emergency Fund provided monies this year to the JDC‘s Japan/Pacific Disaster Relief Fund
following the earthquake/tsunami in Japan and to MAZON for disaster relief following the tornados in
the southern US.
Outreach: A Hesed brochure and note cards are available at Hesed programs and Adath events. The
Hesed cards, which were created by Carol Bromer, Michelle Basman and Gloria Cooper, are available
for purchase to support the Hesed programs.
On February 12, 2011, a Synaplex Shabbat was held, co-sponsored by the Hesed Committee and Jewish
Community Action. The theme was ―Yes We Can! Synaplex Explores Ways to Make a Difference‖.
Co-chairs were Judi Tennebaum and Paula Fox, with support from Melissa Rudnick of JCA. The d‘var
Torah was presented by Frank Hornstein, state legislator and founder of JCA. A Learn after Lunch
panel explored ways of working with the legislature to get your voice heard.
A fundraising project being planned for this summer is Art from the Heart (Sharon Zweigbaum).
Guided tours by veteran docents Barbara Rubin-Greenberg and Sharon Zweigbaum will highlight
achievements by Jewish artists at the Minneapolis Institutes of Arts on June 26 and at the Walker on
August 7.
The Hesed Committee is comprised of a very committed and knowledgeable group of congregants. Our
goal is to encourage our congregation to broaden its support of Hesed‘s work through both active
participation and financial support. Please join us!
Paula Fox
Chair
44

Israel and Masorti
In October 2010, Rabbi Harold Kravitz and Heidi Schneider joined a Masorti mission to Israel with
Conservative movement representatives from across the United States and Canada. In Israel, they had
the opportunity to visit nearly a dozen new and long-established Masorti kehillot representing the
Conservative Movement in Israel. The Masorti delegation also had the opportunity to lobby on behalf
of religious pluralism in Israel with Knesset members from the Likud, Kadimah, Labor, and Meretz
parties, and they met personally with leadership from Masorti in Israel and with Natan Sharansky, head
of the Jewish Agency. Following the mission, Heidi Schneider was appointed to serve on the Masorti
Foundation Board. As a board member, Heidi wants to increase awareness of Masorti‘s outreach and
cutting-edge programming in Israel and to broaden Masorti‘s funding from our Minnesota Conservative
congregations. This year, with the financial support of members of Adath Jeshurun Congregation and
others, we were able to secure a $10,000 matching grant for the Masorti Foundation from the
Minneapolis Jewish Federation.
In April, Adath Jeshurun hosted Rabbi Gil Nativ and his wife Zivah of Magen Avraham in Omer, Israel.
Rabbi Nativ‘s Masorti kehillah is Adath‘s sister congregation. Zivah Nativ heads the award-winning
Masorti program for Bar and Bat Mitzvah for Children with Special Needs. Both Rabbi Nativ and Zivah
taught classes at the Passover Conservative Consortium. Again this year, Adath congregants helped to
raise over $10,000 to support Magen Avraham‘s rabbinic intern program, which helps to train and
support students learning to become Masorti rabbis at the Schechter Institute in Jerusalem. Adath
Jeshurun participated in the Israel Program Center‘s Parallel Lives program in May, hosting two Israel
soldiers on Shabbat, who met with our SMP students, participated in our Gimel service, and spoke with
adult congregants after services. Congregant Kim Gedan helped organize our Minneapolis communitywide
Yom Ha‘aztmaut celebration, where, for the first time, Masorti was featured with a staffed
information table.
Another Masorti mission to Israel is scheduled for January 22 through January 27, 2012. Rabbi Sadoff
and Heidi Schneider will be participating in the mission, and we would welcome many more participants
from Adath Jeshurun congregation to join us on this inspiring journey to support and learn from
pluralistic and egalitarian Masorti communities in Israel.
Heidi Schneider
Chair
45

Keruv
The goal of Keruv is to “bring close” those who may feel marginalized or without a place in the voice of
our community. We encourage and facilitate community building through outreach and education.
The Keruv Committee, established by the Board of Directors, held its first meeting in
May 2005 for the purpose of working toward a synagogue culture that is ―m‘karev‖
(inclusive). Since its inception, Keruv meets regularly to discuss issues related to
reaching out to those who may feel ―marginalized or without a voice‖ in our
synagogue community. Initially the Keruv Committee was brought together to
consider issues of gays and lesbians within the Conservative Movement and more
specifically in our own congregation. We keep this issue in the forefront of our activities while we
explore new areas to help other Adath members and their households feel more connected within our
community. Another area of the Keruv Committee‘s work consists of examining current synagogue
policies in light of the changing population of our community, as well as in the Conservative Movement.
Guided by the book The Spirituality of Welcoming by Ron Wolfson, which we read last year, this year
our committee began by reviewing the Summary of Welcoming and Connectedness Outcomes that
Keruv is responsible for addressing. As Keruv chair, I met this past year with Carol Bromer and Dani
Fisher to discuss ideas of how Keruv can help lead some of the new ―Welcoming and Connectedness‖
initiatives highlighted in the Welcoming and Connectedness Outcomes document drafted last summer.
A major role of the Keruv Committee is to study and review issues, serving as a sounding board to the
rabbis whose responsibility is to be the Mara D‘atra (the halakhic authority) for our community. This
year with Rabbi Kravitz as our teacher, our committee has focused on various texts related to interfaith
households at Adath. Interfaith issues that we studied and discussed at length pertain to life cycle events,
marriage and anniversary announcements, and funerals and burials in our Conservative community.
Specific texts that we studied this year include A Tale of Two Jewries: The “Inconvenient Truth” For
American Jews, Proceedings of the Committee on Jewish Law, Standards of the Conservative Movement
1986-1990, and a position paper that Rabbis Kravitz and Brusso composed in December 2008 defining
for the Minnesota Rabbinical Association Adath‘s stance on the subject of intermarrying couples and
interfaith households in our community. Keruv will continue to examine these issues next year and as
well as supporting the work that needs to be accomplished on the Welcoming and Connectedness goals.
On Sunday, June 26, our committee will again participate in the annual Pride Festival as a partner with
other Jewish communal and religious organizations. We will have a welcoming presence in the march
and the ―Ohel HaShalom,‖ The Tent of Peace, at the festival held in Loring Park. We seek members to
volunteer the day of this Festival; please contact a member of the Keruv Committee if you are interested
representing Adath by marching in the parade or greeting people in the welcoming tent.
The Keruv Committee is known for its spirited and lively discussions, as we delve into complicated
topics related to life cycle observances and synagogue policy. This year five new members joined Keruv
including Sharon Garber, Andi Kibort, Michelle Witcoff Kuhl, Rachel Orman, and Susanna Lodge.
Returning members were Sandy Baron, Rebecca Biderman, Jamie Gaviser, Nancy Harold, Abby
Kirschner, Lois Kozberg, Don Masler, Neil Meyer, Jeff Sherman, Rabbi Kravitz and Rabbi Sadoff. I
would like to thank the members of the Keruv Committee who have given not only their time, but also
their wisdom and insight to making our meetings very thought provoking. ―Todah rabah‖ to Rabbi
Kravitz for guiding us and shedding light on the many interesting aspects of Jewish law, and how this
impacts practices in the Conservative movement and our Adath community.
Debra Krawetz, Chair
46

Nominating
New Officers whose terms expire June 2013 (to be approved):
President-Elect
Secretary
Fundraising & Development
Primary Education
Jewish Life & Learning
Membership
Barbara Rubin-Greenberg
Ed Hoffman (first term)
Rick L. Siedband (second term)
Julie Ziessman (first term)
Barbara Rubin-Greenberg (second term)
Lauren Segelbaum (first term)
Officers whose terms expire June 2012:
President
Finance
Secondary Education
Human Resources
Property
Communications
Adult Learning
Mike Greenstein
Chris Kellogg (first term)
Lon Rosenfield (first term)
Sheila Sigel (second term)
Todd Werner (first term)
Lonny Goldsmith (first term)
Nancy Harold (first term)
TO BE APPROVED:
Board Members whose terms expire in 2014: (first term) Jeannie Gilfix, Marc Kermisch, Drea Lear,
Michael Oreck, Jaye Snyder; (second term) Scott Grossfeld.
Board Members whose terms expire in 2012: Eli Sirotin, Sheri Steinman.
Presidential Appointment whose term expires in 2012: Paula Fox
CONTINUING BOARD MEMBERS:
Board Members whose terms expire in 2012: (first term) Gary Baron, Alison London, David Pink;
(second term) Lucy Rose Fischer, Gary Kibort, Leslie Orenstein, Debbie Wolfe.
Board Members whose terms expire in 2013: (first term) Debbie Goldenberg, Darren Lederfine, Ed
Zeman, Jonathan Shaver; (second term) Keri Bahar, Stan Kagin, Amy Newman, Scott Teplinsky.
Chairs: The following persons, by virtue of their status as chairpersons of standing committees or
constituent organizations are appointed to the Board: Ruth Harris (President, Women‘s League), Bruce
Nemer & Cindy Dubansky (Co-chairs, Chevra Kavod Hamet), Marcy Harris (Chair, Hesed Committee),
Shari Levitt and Hindy Tankenoff (Co-Chairs, Youth Commission), Joseph Lifland (Chair, Cemetery
Committee), Kim Gedan (Chair, Yad Sima Tova), Debra Krawetz (Chair, Keruv).
Report submitted by the Nominating Committee: Heidi Schneider, Chair; Mike Greenstein, Jason Grais,
Julie Kozberg, Amy Newman, Irv Nudell, David Orbuch, Michael Oreck, Marty Rosenbaum, Lon
Rosenfield, and Barbara Rubin-Greenberg.
47

Strategic Planning
The other area of focus resulting from the Strategic Plan has been initial work to implement the
educational goals, co-chaired by Judy Cook and Beth Leonard. Among the accomplishments of the past
year is the active cooperation by Adath leadership with Talmud Torah's Strategic Planning; a
presentation by Talmud Torah to the Adath Board on the Findings of their Strategic Plan; synagogue
leadership meetings with Talmud Torah to determine how we might strengthen our relationship in the
future; and collaboration with other community partners on the Yachad Initiative, through the
generosity of the Minneapolis Federation, to study post B'nai Mitzvah Education and engagement as a
Minneapolis Jewish Community.
In addition to the areas of focus, we are continuing our overall efforts by distributing the Strategic
Planning Bold Statements to the congregation in a variety of ways. Committees and other Adath
gatherings have reviewed the Bold Statements to consider implementation opportunities. The focus of
Welcoming and Connectedness will prove to be particularly important in the coming year as B'nai Emet
has made the decision to join Adath.
We also want to recognize and express our thanks to Sally Appelbaum for her generous gift to support
the implementation of our strategic planning initiatives.
Judy Cook and Keri Bahar
Co-chairs
TAMID: Theatre, Arts, Music, Israel and Dance
On October 28th, TAMID presented a gala event ―Cantors in Concert – From Broadway to Bima‖ with
guest Cantor Meir Finkelstein and our own Cantor Scott Buckner joined by the Adath Jeshurun Choir.
Cantor Finkelstein is the renowned composer of ―L‘dor Vador‖ and Adath‘s exhilarating new
―Halleluya‖. The cantors combined their exquisite tenor voices to provide an evening of musical
splendor including liturgical, classic and contemporary favorites. The evening also featured the world
premiere of a new ―Hashkiveinu‖ commissioned by Adath for the occasion. The sanctuary was filled
and the audience was thrilled!
Thanks to the TAMID supporters and committee volunteers who were instrumental in making this a
very successful event.
The TAMID Committee
Cantor Scott Buckner
Artistic Director
48

Welcoming and Connectedness Initiative
Welcoming Place (Hachnasat Orchim): We are a warm, welcoming congregation that promotes
inclusion and participation while valuing diversity. We embrace welcoming as an important Jewish
value and a responsibility shared by all as we support each other throughout all stages of life, and in
times of joy and times of need.
Connectedness (Kesharim): Judaism is grounded in community. We will connect with one another
through a rich variety of opportunities that create smaller communities within our congregation
while reflecting the commitment to our mission and values.
Guided by the above statements from the January 2010 Visioning Conference, the Welcoming and
Connectedness Initiative first convened in the summer of 2010. The goal of the initiative is to make our
entire community more welcoming, more inclusive, and more connected.
Initial steps taken toward realization of the above goals include:
Communications channels, including Chadashot, the weekly congregational e-blast, the Clarion,
and the Adath Jeshurun website, www.adathjeshurun.org, are being analyzed and revised to
provide more information and more opportunities to learn about opportunities for involvement in
the congregation, and to learn about our fellow congregants.
Congregants are encouraged to join a committee that meets their interests, enables them to meet
new people, and get involved in shaping our Adath community.
To facilitate participation in the High Holidays, High Holiday tunes will be sent to new members
with the High Holiday packets, and will be available to download from the website.
The Clarion will begin to feature short profiles of staff and new members, to introduce us to one
another on a more personal level.
Synagogue-wide celebrations and programming are being planned to engage our whole
congregation. Plans are in process for summer neighborhood-based Shabbat events, welcoming
congregants for Holiday meals and visits to a Sukkah, creating more Chavurot, greeting new
members with Welcome Bags, and reaching out in friendship at services and Kiddush.
The effort will continue to ensure that the culture of the congregation is one where all feel included,
welcomed, valued, and connected. We invite all congregants to participate in this initiative. To find out
more, or to be a part of this effort, please contact Carol at cfbromer@comcast.net or Dani at
danzierach@gmail.com
Carol Bromer and Dani Fisher
Co-conveners
49

Women’s League
The Women‘s League of the Adath Jeshurun Congregation is dedicated to our synagogue, to Judaism, to
our community and to Israel! We are your friends, your relatives, your neighbors. Some are retired and
some still work…some are young and some are more mature…we join because we want a personal
connection to the synagogue.
We participate for the friendship, education and the opportunity to do something worth while and
contribute to the Adath and the other organizations that Woman‘s League supports.
We have board meetings, luncheon meetings and committee meetings and we raise money. Our Adath
Women‘s League this year just donated $9,000 to the Torah Fund. The T. F. is the four Rabbinical and
Cantorial schools: the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York (where Rabbi Kravitz and Rabbi
Kaufman studied), the Ziegler school in LA, the Schecter Institute in Jerusalem (where Rabbi Sadoff
studied) and the Seminario Rabinico in Buenos Aires. These schools train our leaders and our donations
go a long way towards helping them.
We gave $2,000 to our Gan and a couple hundred dollars to USY. We also pay 50% of the candlesticks
and wine cups given to the boys and girls at their Bat and Bar Mitzvahs.
We have social activities such as the Torah Fund Dinner, and an Interfaith Luncheon where churches
from all around the cities come to see our synagogue, eat our delicious Kosher food and learn a little
about Judaism.
At the Purim Carnival, we sold our delicious home-made Hammentachen. We also held a cancer genetic
education program, and a successful Rummage Sale.
Women‘s League owns the Adath Gift Shop where shopping for beautiful giftware and Judaic items for
all occasions is easy and convenient.
We publish the annual synagogue calendar that lists holidays, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, Yarzeits, etc. We
sponsored a Women‘s League Shabbat and brought in a student from JTS to speak. We also have
regional and national conventions that we plan and attend so that women across our region and across
our nation can connect with each other. This year a member of our own Women‘s League was elected to
be the President of the IntraContinental Region which extends from Canada to Mexico.
Women‘s League works hard for many causes and does a lot for the Adath and Israel. We are all very
proud of our accomplishments this year! Next year our goals will be stronger fellowships, more
monetary and service contributions to the synagogue, our community and Israel and we will have even
more fun and interesting activities for our members and all women.
Sheri Steinman
Women‘s League President
50

Adath’s Outreach Caring Community
Yad Sima Tova
With great pride Adath’s Outreach Caring Community - Yad Sima Tova (in memory of Susan
Himmelman Shapiro), provides a community approach to strengthening health and wellness and
spirituality to all members of Adath Jeshurun Congregation. Over the past year, our outreach program
for members of the Adath community and their families have become stronger and expanded in scope. It
is becoming quite apparent that the needs of our members will become greater due to a longer life span.
Adath's Outreach Caring Community -Yad Sima Tova has taken a giant step into the future with long
range vision by developing programs that will make a difference while reaching out to members of the
Adath community and their families who need help, support and encouragement.
Adath’s Outreach Caring Community: Yad Sima Tova has created the following programs that will
serve the congregation well into the future:
* Congregational Nurse: works as part of our team and in cooperation with the clergy. The
Congregational Nurse assesses health concerns, addresses spiritual and social needs, connects
individuals with the congregation and provides community resources for support.
* Meals-on-wheels: offered to individuals and their families who are in need of assistance while ill or
after returning home from the hospital or nursing home.
* Transportation: volunteers provide at no cost rides for members who are unable to drive to Shabbat
services or other Adath events.
* Visitor /Companion: volunteers call on congregants who are isolated from the synagogue in their
home or transitional care facilities through personal visits or telephone contact. Janice Schachtman
coordinates volunteers to delivery over 100 baskets to congregants who are home bound during the High
Holidays and Purim.
* Bank and Bill Management: provide assistance to individual members by organizing their mail, bank
statements, and bill payments.
* Healing Service: offers Adath families the opportunity to have a personal prayer service in their
home, hospital, or care facility for those who are recovering from an illness. The prayers reflect the
thoughts and message of healing in the Jewish tradition.
*Bereavement Comfort: congregant volunteers make telephone contact with members who have
suffered a death of a family member extending a message of comfort, sympathy, and help if desired.
Follow up calls and notes are made at a later date.
* Minyan Calling: calls are made to congregants who have an approaching yahrzeit to encourage their
attendance at daily Minyan services. Approximately 60 members are contacted weekly with this
reminder of the date and the time that they can pay honor to their loved ones.
* Spiritual and Religious Outreach: arrange for volunteers to conduct Shabbat services at Knollwood
Place Apartments, Sholom Home West, Roitenberg Assisted Living, Jones Harrison Residence and
Parkshore Senior Campus. Provide a ritual- spiritual experience at Knollwood Place Apartments one
evening a month, and annually sponsor a Chanukah Party celebration for the residents of the Sholom
Alliance Campus in St. Louis Park.
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Yad Sima Tova – continued
* The following are the contact people for the Yad Sima Tova Programs:
Congregational Nurse
Healing Service
Meals
Bereavement
Transportation
Visitor/Companion
Minyan Calling
Bank & Bill Management
Spiritual / Religious Outreach
Cindy Dubansky
Don Masler
Kim Gedan
Julie Kozberg
Marge and Ed Agranoff
Kim Gedan
Jim Sherman
Arnie Blatt
Kim Gedan, Donna Rodich,
Jackie Gleeman, Jana Savitz,
Jim Sherman
Adath’s Outreach Caring Community: Yad Sima Tova’s mission is to use the strength of our community
to support Adath members and their families in times of need. Our volunteers have compassion and are
committed to our work. It is their generous acts of kindness that brings a feeling of both community and
Jewish identity to make a better world in which we live; in the spirit of Tikkun Olam. We would like to
offer our warm thanks to the Susan Himmelman Shapiro Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation for
their continued support and funding as well as many other donations that enable us to provide such a
vital link to our community, and a very special thank you to all of our wonderful volunteers who have
made this program a success!
Kim Gedan
Chair
52

Yad Sima Tova – continued
ADATH’S CONGREGATIONAL NURSE PROGRAM
The Congregational Nurse Program grew out of Adath’s Outreach Caring Community: Yad Sima
Tova as a natural extension of its mission and purpose. The Nurse brings the medical, spiritual and
social dimensions of healing to our congregants. She visits Adath members and families in their homes
and other settings to offer support and guidance when recovering from an illness or when facing longterm
health issues. She does not provide hands-on care, but assesses needs and makes referrals to JFCS
and other agencies that can provide the necessary services. The Nurse also makes referrals back to Yad
Sima Tova for services that its volunteers can offer. Our congregational nurse, Debby Jewett, is a
Registered Nurse who is certified as a Faith Community Nurse. Within Adath, Debby works closely
with the clergy (as an extension of their pastoral work), the program liaison staff person, and the
Congregational Nurse Committee.
In addition, we have continually worked collaboratively with five other synagogue nurse programs and
JFCS/NORC in order to meet the long term needs of our joint community. As the Adath Congregational
Nurse, Debby Jewett relies on the clergy, families and friends as well as direct contacts from the
members themselves for her referrals. Everyone in the Adath Jeshurun Congregation needs to be a part
of her work as a caring and compassionate community, keeping her in mind as we see individuals that
need her help.
Funding for the Nurse Program is very important to ensure that it continues and grows in importance
and strength. The Congregational Nurse Program is now generously sponsored by Marc and Julie
Kozberg. With their noteworthy donation the future of this program has been ensured. Their
participation in this valuable outreach activity is very much appreciated, and we extend our heartfelt
thanks to them.
Adath’s Outreach Caring Community: Yad Sima Tova would also like to thank Debbie Jewett and Jim
Sherman for all of their efforts, as well as all of the clergy support that has helped us provide continuity
within our program and community.
Cindy Dubansky
Chair, Congregational Nurse Committee
53

Adath Jeshurun Foundation
It is once again my pleasure to share with you the news of the Adath Foundation‘s last fiscal year and
celebrate the support shown towards Adath‘s future. The Adath Foundation is our Synagogue‘s source
of endowment funding and provides financial support to secure its well-being for this and future
generations.
The Foundation‘s total assets have multiplied to more than $5.7 million. The Foundation‘s makeup
includes 88 endowed funds and three endowed chairs, the MAX NEWMAN FAMILY CHAIR IN
RABBINICS, the LEONARD AND CLARA SAVITT YOUTH DIRECTOR CHAIR, and the
BERMAN FAMILY CHAIR IN JEWISH LEARNING, along with 57 planned gifts.
During 2010, the total return on the Foundation‘s investment portfolio was approximately 9.2%, net of
manager fees. We are fortunate that we were able to provide more than $166,097 to the Congregation
addressing such needs as scholarships, educational programs, outreach, and capital improvements to the
synagogue. This past year, we were blessed with actual contributions totaling $186,020.50.
Please join me in acknowledging the generosity of our Legacy Society members who have already made
a commitment to Adath‘s future and in thanking the current Foundation board members for their service:
Carolyn Abramson, Michael Berman, Carol Bromer, Robert Ezrilov, Mark Fischer, Bradley Frank,
Bernie Goldblatt, Alan Gingold, Melvin Goldfein, Michael Greenstein, Christine Kellogg, Rabbi Harold
Kravitz, Darren Lederfine, Herman Markowitz, Charles Newman, Jeffrey Schachtman, Heidi Schneider,
Rick Siedband, and Andrew Weiner. Also, we are very grateful to Jennifer Herman Spiller, our
Foundation‘s Development Director.
We also want to recognize and express our sincere appreciation to The Jay & Rose Phillips Family
Foundation for their generous grant which will allow us to enhance our use of technology in promoting
philanthropy.
As a community, we recently came together and dreamed of the Congregation we aspired to be. These
dreams resulted in a set of goals and vision for the future of our Adath Jeshurun Congregation. I am
proud to report that your Adath Foundation is taking a leadership role in developing resources that
reduce financial barriers to participation in congregational activities and in the broader Jewish
community.
I personally invite you to help build our dreams by continuing to endow our future. With your
commitment, we will further position ourselves as a congregation with a longstanding history and a vital
future.
David Segal
Adath Jeshurun Foundation President
54

Adath Jeshurun Foundation - continued
The following individuals are helping secure the future of Adath by naming the Adath Jeshurun
Foundation as a beneficiary in their estate plans.
Carolyn Abramson and Family
Mike & Sarah Badower
Minnie Bergman
Sandra Bergman
Elaine Berkowitz
Judith & Michael Berman
Edward H. Borkon
Michael & Carol Bromer
Judy & Richard Cook and Family
Mark & Lucy Rose Fischer
Anonymous
Dr. James & Judy Gaviser
Mrs. Natalie Gerstein
Elaine Gingold
Roni & Alan Gingold
Anonymous
Leslie and Bernie Goldblatt
Harold & Cynthia Goldfine and Family
Alvin & Judy Goldstein
Karyn Gruenberg Goldstein
Barbara Rubin-Greenberg
Ida Greenfield
Anonymous
Susan & Thomas Kafka
Randy & Raleigh Kaminsky
Morton & Merle Kane
Harry & Marilyn Karasov
The Christine Kellogg & Jack Leveille Family
Ruth King-Smith
Ida & George Kleineman
Rabbi Harold J. Kravitz & Cindy Reich
Mayer & Faye Krupp
June & Neil Lapidus
Raymond M. Lazar
Steve & Sheri Lear
Morton Lent
Jules & Rose Levin
Martin & Laura Lipshutz
Herman & Nancy Markowitz
Roslyn & Edward Marks
Anonymous
Joel Mintzer & Heidi Schneider
Bobby & Bruce Nemer
Dr. Martin & Joyce Dechter Orbuch
Dr. Milton & Etta Fay Orkin
Barbara & Larry Parks
Nancy & Joseph Peilte
Jules & Gay Rosenthal
Janice & Jeffrey Schachtman and Family
David & Renee Segal and Family
Bert Bach & Miriam Segall
William & Ruth Seltz
Mrs. Tillie Shapiro
Carol Sarnat & Rick Siedband
Gerald & Eileen Siegel
Melissa Cohen Silberman &
Sheldon Silberman
Anonymous
Tom & Liba Stillman Family
Joseph & Lisa Thiegs
Andrew & Marci Weiner and Family
Anonymous
Barry Wolfish & Randi Winston
We would like to also thank the following individuals who have made significant current unrestricted
gifts to the Adath Jeshurun Foundation General Fund:
Rodney & Judith Cooperman
Irving & Charlotte Nudell
Please remember the Adath Foundation in your estate planning. For more information, check us out
online at www.adathfoundation.org
55

Adath Jeshurun Foundation Funds
Adath Women's League Fund
supports activities of the Adath Jeshurun Women's League
Arleen and Leonard Gruenberg Library Fund
supports the library’s children’s collection at Adath Jeshurun
Congregation
Art Brand Scholarship Fund
provides scholarships to young people of the Adath Jeshurun
Congregation for Jewish summer camp
Avis Margulies Savitt and Burton Savitt Gan Shelanu Fund
provides financial aid assistance for Adath families who have children
attending the Gan Shelanu Preschool at Adath Jeshurun Congregation
Bach/Segall Family Fund
supports adult education programming at Adath Jeshurun
Congregation
Badower Family Fund
supports general education needs of Adath Jeshurun Congregation
Ben and Reva Kibort Scholarship Fund
provides need-based scholarships to young people of the Adath
Jeshurun Congregation to learn about the Holocaust by visiting the
concentration camps
Ben and Ruth Liman Family Fund
supports children's activities at Adath Jeshurun Congregation
Bender Scholarship Fund
provides scholarships to young people of the Adath Jeshurun
Congregation
Berman Family Chair in Jewish Learning
supports the Director of Jewish Learning position at Adath
Jeshurun Congregation
Bernard and Ida Gingold Fund
supports general purposes of Adath Jeshurun Congregation
Bertram and Charlotte Cooper Adult Education Fund
supports adult education in the Congregation
Burton and Marty Abramson Fund
impacts young people at Adath Jeshurun Congregation
Burton Kronick Fund
supports adult education and adult education programs at Adath
Jeshurun Congregation
Capital Repair and Replacement Fund
supports capital improvements and long term maintenance needs of
the synagogue building
Charles and Elizabeth Grossman Staff Education Fund
enhances and promotes staff education at the Adath Jeshurun
Congregation
Corinne and Robert Neuman Gan Enrichment Fund
supports enrichment for the children in Adath's Gan Shelanu
Preschool
Dr. Milton and Etta Fay Orkin Family Fund
supports the ongoing maintenance of the history of Adath Jeshurun
Congregation
Education Programming Fund
supports our education staff and all education programming – from
babies and toddlers, through Gan Shelanu, Sunday School, SMP,
Youth, Adults, to Seniors. This fund is also for educational material and
equipment
Edythe and Burton Toles Fund
supports general purposes of Adath Jeshurun Congregation
Ella and Alexander Chester Fund
supports educational programming at Adath Jeshurun
Congregation
Esther and Bennett Goldberg Access Fund
enables congregants of all ages with special needs to
participate in religious, cultural, and educational activities in the
synagogue
Ferne and Edward Grosmann Social Action Fund
supports social action activities at Adath Jeshurun
Congregation
Fink Life Members Fund
supports a lifetime membership to Adath Jeshurun
Congregation
Foundation General Fund
supports general operating needs of the Synagogue and the
Foundation
Fred and Margo Berdass Scholarship Fund
provides scholarships to young people of the Adath Jeshurun
Congregation
Gan Shelanu Programming Endowment Fund
supports programming at the Gan Shelanu Preschool
Geraldine and Herbert Fineberg Family Fund
supports enhanced Shabbat programming at Adath Jeshurun
Congregation, especially if it can occasionally include providing
food/desserts for the congregation
Grace and Morris Besner Gan Shelanu Fund
supports the Gan Shelanu Nursery School at the Adath Jeshurun
Congregation
Gross Family Library Fund
supports expenses of the Gross Family Library
Harold and Elaine Rubin Gan Shelanu
Endowment Fund
supports the Gan Shelanu Nursery School at the Adath Jeshurun
Congregation
Harold and Zelda Goldenberg Israel Experience Fund
encourages and enables members of Adath Jeshurun Congregation
and their families to study in Israel
Harry and Marilyn Karasov Family Fund
supports educational programming at Adath Jeshurun Congregation
Heddy and Max Levy Ritual Fund
supports the purchase of siddurim, chumashim, as well as to repair the
sefrei torah
56

Adath Jeshurun Foundation Funds - continued
Henry and Harriet Davis Family Fund
supports the Gan Shelanu Preschool at Adath Jeshurun Congregation
primarily through the purchase of educational equipment and toys
Hesed Endowment Fund
supports the mission of Hesed
Ida and Irving Greenfield Education Fund
supports educational programming at Adath Jeshurun Congregation
Irving and Frances Herman Education Fund
supports any educational need of Adath young people at all age levels
from preschool through high school
Jerry and Sharon Zweigbaum Family Art Fund
supports the care and maintenance of the Adath Jeshurun
Congregation art collection
Jewish Studies for a Better World Fund
supports a lecture series at Adath Jeshurun Congregation with a
specific focus on making the world a better place
Joe and Estelle Kane Family Fund
supports general education programming at Adath Jeshurun
Congregation
Joseph L. Linoff and Hyman and Edith Edelman
Scholarship Fund
provides scholarships to young people at Adath Jeshurun
Congregation
Jules and Gay Rosenthal Fund for Lifelong Learning
supports lifespan development at Adath Jeshurun Congregation
Kagin Family Fund
supports outreach efforts at Adath Jeshurun Congregation including the
work of the Volunteer Coordinator
Karen Siegel-Jacobs Fund
supports creative activities of Jewish teenagers, such as Keren-Or, a
creative art and writing forum for teens
Kellogg Family Fund
sustains the Adath Jeshurun synagogue community by periodically
providing funds to support the annual L’Chaim fund drive as well as
other activities that build synagogue community
Ken and Sally Appelbaum Keruv Fund
provides seed money for new programming at the Adath Jeshurun
Congregation and supports the needs of our diverse community with a
specific focus on outreach to underserved populations
Kurt and Lee Lindau Education Fund
supports adult education programs at Adath Jeshurun Congregation
L’Dor V’Dor Lumel Family Fund
inspires youth by bringing Judaism alive through educational
experiences and study in the post B’nai Mitzvah years in order to foster
lifelong learning
Landscape Beautification Fund
supports the ongoing landscape beautification needs of the
Synagogue’s grounds
Leon, Naomi and Phyllis Kaplan Gan Scholarship Fund
provides financial aid assistance for Adath families who have children
attending the Gan Shelanu Preschool at Adath Jeshurun Congregation
57
Leonard and Clara Savitt Youth Director Chair
supports the Youth Director's position at Adath Jeshurun
Congregation
Linda Weber Hesed Fund
benefits children and families at risk
Marion L. and John C. Gepner Family Fund for Youth
supports youth programming at Adath Jeshurun Congregation
Max Newman Family Chair in Rabbinics
supports the Senior Rabbi's position at Adath Jeshurun Congregation
Martin and Ginger Bell Jewish Enhancement Fund
encourages Adath's young people to further develop and enhance their
Jewish experience during the post B’nai Mitzvah years
Martin Miller Family Fund
supports youth programming at Adath Jeshurun Congregation
Mel and Beatsy Orenstein Teachers' Education Fund
supports professional development of all teachers of the Adath
Jeshurun Congregation
Mel and Judith Goldfein Fund
supports the greatest needs that exist within the Synagogue
Michael Paul Family Fund
supports young families at Adath Jeshurun Congregation through
scholarships and programming that build community
Millie and Norman Stillman Garden Fund
supports the ongoing maintenance of the garden located in the main
circle of Adath Jeshurun Congregation
Minnie Weisberg Memorial Fund
supports educational programming at Adath Jeshurun
Congregation
N. Bud and Beverly Grossman Foundation Fund
supports enhancements to the N. Bud Grossman Family Chapel
Norman and Dee Silver Fund
supports the greatest needs that exist within the Synagogue
Norman and Dorothy Pink Family Leadership Fund
supports leadership development at the Adath Jeshurun
Congregation of lay leaders and staff of all ages
Numero Steinfeldt Scholar-in-Residence
enhances adult learning at the Adath Jeshurun Congregation
Orbuch Family Tikkun Olam Fund
supports social justice programming, education, and advocacy for
youth at Adath Jeshurun Congregation
Parish Family Fund
supports the greatest needs that exist within the Synagogue
Paula and Norman Fox Hesed Fund
supports Adath Jeshurun Congregation’s Hesed Committee in its
efforts in the areas of housing, hunger, and the well-being of children
Phillips Family Foundation Fund
supports the greatest needs that exist within Adath Jeshurun
Congregation

Adath Jeshurun Foundation Funds - continued
Phyllis and Dan Heilicher Fund
supports the greatest needs that exist within the Synagogue
Prentice and Marion Shapiro Family Music Fund
supports musical programming and related materials at Adath Jeshurun
Congregation
“Red” and Irene Goldstein Simcha Fund
ensures floral arrangements for Shabbat Services and High Holidays
and will assist families lacking funds for flowers for various simachot
(happy occasions) carrying on the tradition of the use of flowers as an
expression of the beauty of life
Ronna and Victor Goldsteen Fund
supports inclusion and adult education for the Adath Jeshurun
Congregation community and the greater Minneapolis Jewish
community
Rose and Jay Phillips Fund
supports adult education and adult education programs at Adath
Jeshurun Congregation
Rosella M. Lent Gan Shelanu Scholarship Fund
assists young families by offering need-based scholarships to the Gan
Shelanu
Russell J. and Sylvia H. Schwartz Israel Youth
Scholarship Fund
provides need-based scholarships to young people of the Adath
Jeshurun Congregation for Israel experiences
Ruthie and Elliott Gensler Memorial Fund
provides financial need-based scholarships to young people at the
Adath Jeshurun Congregation for summer camp and Israel experiences
Saba and Savta Fund
supports scholarships for Israel trips, Jewish Day Schools and the Gan
Shelanu
Sally Leafman Appelbaum Life Members Fund
supports a lifetime membership to Adath Jeshurun Congregation
Sandra and Irwin Mandel Fund
supports Bikkur Holim at Adath Jeshurun Congregation
Saul Winton Fund Camp Ramah Scholarship
provides Camp Ramah scholarships to Adath young people
Schneider Family Tenuah (Leadership) Fund
Supports leadership development of board members at Adath Jeshurun
Congregation at the regional, national and international level.
Sheila and Steven Sigel Family Fund
provides financial aid assistance to families of the Gan Shelanu
Preschool at Adath Jeshurun Congregation
Sidney and Irene Levin Family Scholarship and
Education Fund
supports education programming and providing scholarship
assistance to congregants to further their Jewish education
Teri and Mike Greenstein Jewish Education Fund
supports Adath’s Jewish education programming
The Chai Fund
supports the greatest needs that exist in the Synagogue
The Scholarship Fund
supports scholarships or assistance to congregants to further their
Jewish education
Anonymous
enhances senior programming at the Adath Jeshurun Congregation
Zvi and Miriam Liberman Memorial Fund
provides need-based scholarships to young people of the Adath
Jeshurun Congregation to experience Israel
58

BOLD STATEMENTS TO GUIDE OUR FUTURE
Welcoming Place (Hachnasat Orchim): We are a warm, welcoming congregation that promotes
inclusion and participation while valuing diversity. We embrace welcoming as an important Jewish
value and a responsibility shared by all as we support each other throughout all stages of life, and in
times of joy and times of need.
Connectedness (K’sharim): Judaism is grounded in community. We will connect with one another
through a rich variety of opportunities that foster smaller communities, engaged in our congregation,
reflecting the commitment to our mission and values.
Education (Chinuch): Education is the foundation for a committed Jewish life. We will provide a
lifelong continuum of quality Jewish learning opportunities to congregants of all ages, abilities and
means through a combination of our own resources and that of our community partners.
Teen Involvement (Noar): We value our teens and seek to engage them in congregational life. We
will foster a sense of belonging and spiritual fulfillment among our teens and remove barriers to full
participation in everyday Jewish life. We will provide leadership and financial support, creative
programming, and will welcome teen input into congregational committees.
Israel (Yisrael): Our commitment to the Land, the People and the State of Israel is steadfast. We will
provide and promote opportunities for congregants to experience, visit, and learn more about Israel and
will maintain a strong connection with the Masorti Movement and Magen Avraham, our sister
congregation in Omer. We will strongly advocate for pluralism and tolerance in Israel and will model
this by being respectful of differing points of view.
Shabbat (Shabbat Kodesh): We inspire our members to experience the beauty and holiness of Shabbat,
respecting tradition and offering an innovative array of Shabbat experiences. We recognize that
Shabbat is celebrated in the synagogue, the home and other places.
Conservative Judaism (Tenuah): We model what it means to be a leading Conservative Jewish
congregation, fully engaged with our national organizations as they reshape our movement.
Financial Commitment (Kemach): We will take a leadership role in developing resources that reduce
financial barriers to participation in congregational activities and in the broader Jewish community.
Technology (Technologia): We are committed to utilizing and expanding current and new technologies
in order to extend our presence beyond the physical building.
Mentoring (Hadracha): As congregants journey through a life dedicated to Torah, Avodah, and
Gemilut Hasadim, we will provide mentors to welcome newcomers and increase the congregation‘s
overall knowledge, skills and comfort level with their own Jewish journey.
Intentional Jews (Kavanah): We are a congregation that fosters intentional Jewish living. We will
help members grow to become active Conservative Jews living in a vibrant, spiritual, caring and ethical
community.
59