Draft February Bulletin 2012.indd - Touro Synagogue

Touro Synagogue
New Orleans
February 2012 - Shevat / Adar 5772 Volume 183, Issue 5
Welcome Kerry Tapia, Executive Director
Our new executive director, Kerry Tapia, will arrive and begin her work at Touro the first week in March
– just after Mardi Gras. Which means, she’ll be moving here during Mardi Gras week. What a way to arrive
in New Orleans! Frankly, we are so happy that Kerry is to become part of the Touro Synagogue community;
a parade might be just the right kind of welcome.
When it became clear that we would be searching for a new executive
director for Touro Synagogue, Kerry was my first phone call. I thought
it would be nearly impossible that she’d leave her position and join
our staff. But, she felt open to this change – for herself, professionally,
and for her family.
Kerry has spent the past eleven years as office manager of Congregation Micah in
Brentwood, Tennessee. I had the privilege of working with Kerry in my first years as a rabbi.
I remember wondering how one person could have such competence, efficiency, creativity,
and warmth. But, it turns out, Kerry is just extraordinary. And she is a wonderful match for
the extraordinary staff we have here.
Her husband, Ben Beasley, has owned a successful contracting company for many years. He
has recently decided to pursue a degree in Environmental Science, and will do so beginning
in the fall at UNO. Ben and Kerry recently welcomed their new baby girl, Emilia.
Kerry is a person who loves to think, yet she leads with her heart. She has expressed a very
strong desire to connect with the congregation. She will want to know you. And, I promise,
you will want to know her.
Kerry Tapia, husband Ben
Beasley, and daughter Emilia
Mardi Gras Mitzvah
Please join me in a kind embrace for Kerry and her family.
Warmly,
Rabbi Alexis Berk
Touro Synagogue enjoys a very prominent and well-deserved reputation for excellence in the New Orleans
community.Our history dates back to 1828 when we were originally known as Congregation Gates of Mercy.
After several changes of name and location, the current sanctuary was dedicated in 1909. Today, we are
blessed with a vibrant and engaged membership led by our inspiring clergy and educator. Our congregation
is involved in a myriad of activities running the gamut from Torah Study to social action initiatives. But
during this season, perhaps Touro’s most outstanding asset is its incredibly premier location on the Mardi
Gras parade route. Certainly our founding fathers had that distinction in mind when they moved us to St.
Charles Avenue! But could they have imagined the mitzvah that would grow out of this location?
A few years ago Touro member Dr. Jay Goldsmith approached Touro member Dr. Juan Gershanik questioning
the possibility of erecting stands on Touro’s steps to accomodate children with disabilities who would otherwise be unable to
attend a Mardi Gras parade. Juan contacted Hal Shepard and the wheels were set in motion. The simple act of attending a Mardi
Gras parade...something most of us take for granted ...can be an impossibility for the disabled. For the last two years, caring
members of Touro Synagogue have provided a venue that fits the needs of the disabled. Safway Scaffold agreed to provide
scaffolding. Hal Shepard and Dave Willis build the stands. Juan arranges with Childrens Hospital and others for special needs
children (accompanied by a parent) to reserve spots. Refreshments and handicap accessible bathrooms are provided. This year,
Juan has been contacted by groups representing adults with special needs to see if they can reserve spots - we are trying to
accomodate all.
This simple act of kindness is filled with generosity of spirit and unconditional love of mankind. We were given the chance to
make a difference and did not hesitate. Indeed, this is a beautiful fulfillment of the definition of mitzvah , and a proud addition
to our legacy.
Phyllis Alltmont , President
1

Costumes, Alcohol, and Cheering--and I’m Not Talking About Mardi Gras
Purim is, in my opinion, one of the most misunderstood holidays in the Jewish calendar. What comes to
mind when we describe Purim? Is it a little kid’s holiday of silliness? Another tired entry in the “they tried
to kill us, we survived, let’s eat” trope? A big Jewish drinking party á la Mardi Gras, St Patrick’s Day, or
Halloween?
The story of Purim is an adult story with adult themes. We’ve sanitized and softened this ribald tale
to make it suitable for all ages. But the Book of Esther is full of violence and slapstick comedy, sex and
revenge, idol worship and existential threats, heroes and villains.
There’s value in teaching it to our children at a level that’s appropriate for them, but where’s our version?
When do we get to see the story--and the world we live in today--for what it is?
Come join us on Wednesday, March 7 at 8pm to cheer for the good guys, boo the bad guys, wear a mask and discover what lies
behind it. Did I mention it’s ages 21 and up only?
Cantor Jamie Marx
“The mitzvah is in the hearing of the Megillah, my
friends, so come hear the story as it was meant to be
heard. This story has everything: Revenge! Conspiracy!
Sex! Pratfalls!
Come dressed up and compete in our costume contest.
Free snacks and drinks! Get a babysitter if you need
one, because this Purim is for adults 21 and up only.”
Adult Purim Spiel
Wednesday, March 7, 6pm
You know you want to!
An EXPERIENTIAL Weekend
With Something For ALL
Scholar in Residence
GABE GOLDMAN PH.D
February 3rd- 5th
Judaism and Nature
FRIDAY NIGHT, FEB. 3: Following Shabbat Evening Services
TuB’Shevat Seder and Dinner with guest, Gabe Goldman
Friday evening is in conjunction with the Tu B’Shevat Seder, sponsored by Brotherhood.
Gabe will lead us in a demonstration of the connections between Jewish life and nature.
Audience participation is a must!
Dinner price is $18 dollars for ages 13 and older but free for
childen under 13. See Page 10 for the scrumptuous menu.
EVERYBODY IS ASKED TO BRING AN ITEM INDIGENOUS TO THIS AREA TO SHARE, IF THEY WANT.
But geared to adults and children
ages 7 an d up
Gabe Goldman, Ph.D.
SATURDAY, FEB. 4, 4:00-6:00 pm: (note slight extension of time)
A Hands-on Family Program at the Park “Mah Rabu Ma-asekah…Discovering the Awe and Wonder in Nature”
A hands on experience open to all but geared to participants ages 7 and up. Families should bring water, flashlights, etc and
Gabe will lead a nature hike to discover the awe in our surroundings. The program will end with Havdalah as Gabe rubs sticks
together to create the fire. The afternoon is FREE but please call Arlean at 895-4843 to register your place, as soon as possible.
SUNDAY, FEB. 5: B’YACHAD – grades 7 – 9
“Jewish Survivor-man Program: Fire in Jewish Tradition”
This is a program for just 7 – 9 graders in our community. It will take place in the Park during their regular religious school
hours.
2

SAVE THE DATE!
Annual Touro Synagogue Fundraiser,
... with a twist!
MAY 20, 2012
Rabbi David Goldstein is 75!
It is time to ROAST, TOAST AND CELEBRATE
a great friend, a great Rabbi, and a great Sport
Get your stories and photos ready!
Saturday ~ FEBRUARY 11, 2012
9:30 –10:10am
Our theme will be
“All Our Fun Winter Holidays”
With a special story and project by
Sasha Mardon’s mom, Kim.
Thank you to our Tot Shabbat
Family Sponsor for February:
Kim Sherman, Steve Mardon ,and Sasha
Contact Mona to be put on the Tot Shabbat reminder list, or to
become next month’s Sp0nsor Family.
895-4843; mona@tourosynagogue.com
3

Ongoing Programs
JEWISH JOURNEYERS
A vehicle to help those considering conversion to Judaism.
Along with experiential moments, outside reading and some formal learning,
this program will help guide those who are seeking a home in Judaism.
Saturday, February 4
9:00 am
Chapel Lounge
TEA AND TALMUD
Come share in the exploration of some of
the most beautiful, complex teachings in
Jewish tradition over a delightful cup of
afternoon tea.
Prayer of the Month
Discussion and debate, explanation and extrapolation.
Each session is independent and will look closely at one of the prayers
we experience regularly at Shabbat services. Bring your own lunch,
soft drink provided.
Tuesday,
February 14
2:00 pm
Mautener Library
Thursday, February 16
Noon
Mautner Library
TOURO HEBREW ACADEMY
HEBREW ACADEMY CONTINUES IN FEBRUARY
• Beginners ~ Tuesday evenings, 7:00 – 8:30 pm (except Mardi Gras)
• Intermediate Prayers ~ Thursdays 10:00 am (through February 9th)
T’fi llah Sunrise!
“Wrapped in Mitzvot: The Tallit”
A weekday morning worship experience. Join us on a prayerful
exploration of our liturgy and and traditions.
Tuesday, February 23
7:30 am
Forgotston Chapel
To participate in any of the above programs, or for more information, contact
Arlean at 895-4843, or afermanis@tourosynagogue.com.
Aaron Spevack, Assistant Professor of Islamic
Studies, Loyola University New Orleans, and
convert to Islam, will speak on the topic:
“My Journey to Islam”
Tuesday, February 7, 12:30 pm
Lenes Hall, Jesuit Church of the Immaculate Conception
130 Baronne Street
NEXT MONTH:
Thich Nu Thanh Trang, Presiding Nun, Van Hanh Buddhist Center
“Being Buddhist in New Orleans”
Tuesday, March 6, 12:30 pm
4

From the Educator
Religious School
http://www.tourosynagogue.com/education/religious-school/
At City-Data.com, “lucyhoneychurch” poses:
Q: Just wondering - - are your kids self motivated when it comes to activities, or do you choose
activities for them and make them participate?
A: Fortunately, my kids are self motivated. They are both pretty outgoing and prefer to stay
busy. If that were not the case, I think I would encourage them to find SOMETHING to be
involved in…These days there is something for everyone out there.
A: My only “force” is that if they sign up for something, that they see it through.
Force, yes, but not to an unhealthy extent.
A: I am probably doing this more because my parents never did. I was never involved in any activities and didn’t realize
the importance of them until it was too late.
The most commonly heard catch phrases from those with teenagers are: “I just can’t force him to do that…”; “we have to pick
our battles and this is not one I am willing to fight”; “she won’t do that – I just know it and I don’t even have to ask her, I just
know”. These answers are in response to things like: is your teenager involved in youth group? Is your son going to camp this
summer or to Israel? There is a great program at the JCC later, will we see Susie there?
Some say that Bar Mitzvah is held too early; that age 13 is not mature enough for such a big milestone. But can we “get” our
teenagers, say age 17, to prepare for Bar Mitzvah? Force them even?
There are a lot of things that one could be involved with aside from school, extra curriculars, and family. And some of them
keep older students, those who are past the age of Confirmation, involved in Jewish activities. Not all teens like all things, but
certainly there are many items on the menu. The options are endless. Some of you know just how many there are and how
busy your children are in these activities, but the numbers are still low – more and more teens can and should become engaged
in continued Jewish learning and activity – formal and informal.
What if you put forward (not forced, not coerced, or even battled) a simple rule like: while you are in high school, you must
choose one or two things a year to be involved with Jewishly. You can go to youth group or to a regional conclave, take a trip to
Israel, or attend an education program at the synagogue. You can become a member of an organization that supports Jewish
causes or even volunteer time to repair the world. It’s not a choice of whether to do it or not, it’s just a choice of how and what.
Imagine that this “household rule” lends itself to your teen’s Jewish social life, not to mention, some good Jewish learning too.
Perhaps “forcing” your children to do things seems painful, but not when it becomes a family expectation. If we do not talk
to our teens about staying involved and choosing to do Jewish things, we leave a gap between what we provided for them as
young children, and the hope that they will pick up the ball later in life. The gaps in our children’s teeth are repaired by braces,
and the gaps in their secular education are repaired by tutors, studying, and our commitment. Should we really leave a gap in
our Jewish future?
Eileen Hamilton, Director of Education
Everyone Loves Purim!
And All are welcome to our Feast
--- in costume or not ---
Join Uptown Hebrew for a Purim Feast … or at least a yummy dinner!
Wednesday, March 7
5:00 – 6:30 pm
Dinner, Megillah Fun, songs, and Purim treats.
You’re going to laugh yourself silly, we’ll make sure of that! .
RSVP TO MONA BY FRIDAY, MARCH 3 WITH THE NUMBER ATTENDING. 895-4843
5

9th Graders work in Touro’s kitchen
to prepare food for a bake sale to benefit
the Desmond Project.
Confirming Jewish Values
The Confirmation class participated with Brotherhood and members of the the Desmond
Project in preparing food for the hungry on Saturday, January 7, 2012. After preparing the
food they car-pooled to the New Orleans Mission and served the food to New Orleans’
hungry and homeless.
Members of Brotherhood work with the Desmond Project each Saturday of the year, cooking
at Touro and then transporting the food to the New Orleans Mission to serve it to some of the
many, many hungry and homeless in our city.
Volunteers are welcome to join them any Saturday, but be warned - it can change how you
and your teens see the world! Contact Dan Checkman at dpc47852@yahoo.com.
Members of the 10th Grade Confirmation
class, along with their teacher, Rabbi Berk,
prepare and then serve food at the
New Orleans Mission.
“With the growing number
of homeless coming to the
Mission (pre-Katrina: 6,000
homeless, post-Katrina: 12,000
homeless, and today: UP TO
19,000 HOMELESS), we find
ourselves reaching out to all
of you for help.” (New Orleans
Mission.org)
To discover ways you can help,
from donations of toilet paper
and soap, to regular paypal
donations of a few dollars a
month, or physically helping
with repairs,
visit the New Orleans Mission
website at
http://www.
Neworleansmission.org/
New Orleans Mission
1130-40 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd.
New Orleans, LA 70113
Phone: (504) 523-2116
Fax: (504) 529-3094
6

Needed for Sophie B. Wright
$5 Student Incentive
Gift Cards
Subway and Smoothie King are especially
popular. These gifts are used to reward and
encourage academic achievements. Drop them
off at the Synagogue; we’ll be happy to pass
them on.
gift card
SOPHIE B. WRIGHT
GIFT CARD
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT
INCENTIVE AWARDS
Needed - College Application Mentors at SBW
Work with the college guidance counselor to support students with
the intimidating and often overwhelming process of filling in college
applications and writing essays.
Hours and time commitment are very flexible.
Touro is A Community
in Action!
Is your family involved in a social justice project together? Help inspire others by
sharing your story. We would love to feature your family in the bulletin.
LGBTQ
Save the date for our event
March 16th.
Please plan to join us after services on
Friday night March 16th for a special
Oneg Shabbat panel discussion:
“If Not Now When? -- Ending state
Sanctioned Discrimination again
LGBTQ* communities in Louisiana.”
The panel will feature our own Rabbi
Berk and ACLU of Louisiana Executive
Director Marjorie Esman, along
with Executive Director of the City
of New Orleans’ Human Relations
Commission, Larry Bagneris and
renowned Family rights lawyer Regina
Mathews.
*Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual/Transgender/
Queer
Synagogue
a Community
in Action
ACTION
Touro
February 9th
6:00 pm, Touro Synagogue
Open Social Action Meeting
Mitzvah & Caring
We’ve got goodie bags ready for
delivery. We just need to know
where to deliver them.
For more information, or to send us a
name, or if you would like to be a
part of this mitzvah,
Contact either Lauren Greenberg
(laurengreenberg@cox.net)or
Dianne Africk (dafrick@ochsner.org),
our Mitzvah and Caring coordinators.
Two speakers from community organizations, plus updates on our ongoing projects.
Touro
cares
Contact Social Action Chair ~ Teri Hunter
(tlhunter22@gmail.com) for more details unless otherwise specifi ed
7

MEMBERS OF
TOURO SYNAGOGUE JOIN THE
MARTIN LUTHER KING DAY
CITY-WIDE WALK
Monday,
January 16,
2012
On Monday, standing at the
lecturn in Congo Square,
[Mayor Mitch Landrieu]
implored citizens to do their
part to address the “rampant
hopelessness and despair of
young people who act out in
violence.” He talked of King’s
call to action, and said city
residents need to take heed.
“We must keep dreaming
and we must dream new
dreams,” he added.
Following the ceremony,
a parade of community
groups and marching bands,
uniform-clad dancers, civic
and religious leaders and
elected officials, marched
through downtown. The procession snaked through Central City and marched up Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to South
Claiborne Avenue, ending steps from a monument to King on the neutral ground.
There, a longtime civil rights leader sat in a folding chair, watching the crowds gather. Rev. Samson “Skip” Alexander, 81, had
marched with King, shared in that fight, spread those same beliefs for decades. “White and black, Jews and Gentiles, anyone,
we can all appreciate being here together in this city,” Alexander said Monday. “This is not a day for black people -- it’s for all
humanity.”
Monday, January 16, 2012. By Brendan McCarthy, The Times-Picayune, on nola.com
On Monday January 16, Touro members marched behind the Sophie B. Wright Band and proudly held our banner, one that
is becoming a common site in social action marches and gatherings in the city. Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel was famous
for his participation in the protest walk at Selma, marching alongside Martin Luther King. What may be less well known
was his role at the National Conference of Religion and Race in Chicago, 1963, at which he delivered a major address: “One
hundred years ago,” he reminded the delegates, “the emancipation was proclaimed. It is time for the white man to strive for selfemancipation,
to set himself free of bigotry.” The greatest sin, he declared, is that of indifference: “Equality is a good thing ... what
is lacking is a sense of the monstrosity of inequality.” (JTA OP-ED By Rabbi Sid Schwarz, October 26, 2006)
If you want to find out about current and future social action endeavors at Touro, or if you have a project you would like to
suggest, please come to our next Social Action Meeting on February 9th. See previous page.
8

In the Eye of the Beholder
Sisterhood
I had an eye opening experience today. I attended a family Bat Mitzvah in San Diego. I know many of you go to B’nai Mitzvah out
of town and outside of our New Orleans community but this is the first one I can recall going to as an adult. The service was held
in Temple Beth Israel, the second oldest synagogue in the American West, which is no longer an active congregation and is now
a historic site and managed by the Park Service. My family is unaffiliated and the Bat Mitzvah girl was privately tutored in order
to prepare for this simcha. There was no cantor, no ordained Rabbi, no siddureem. Her tutor acted as Gabbi as the parsha was
read and a friend played guitar to help enhance the beauty of the prayers. Needless to say, this is very different from our Touro
experience. We have the blessings of enlightened and engaged clergy, a beautiful sanctuary, prayer books, a stocked library and
a thriving, active congregation. Yes, on the surface not so much mirrored a B’nai Mitzvah that would take place at Touro. But,
really, so much was exactly the same. The room was filled with friends, family, beaming grandparents and fidgety teens. Parents
blessed their daughter as she donned her talit for the first time. The honor of aliya was given to close family members and the
Torah was carefully read in unvocalized Hebrew. The traditions of our people were passed from generation to generation.
I came away from the experience with two thoughts; first, how lucky are we that we just have to show up, tune in and participate
if we choose. The stage is already set for our communal prayers. The other thought is that today’s shabbat experience was
wholly created and lovingly carried out not by clergy, executive directors or paid staff but by regular people who felt a call to
Torah and a responsibility to perform this mitzvot. I wonder how many services like this one today have taken place around the
world and through the ages? I truly believe that we, at Touro, are the beneficiaries of those who have had to create their own
Jewish experience.
So, is it the beauty of the Cantor’s song, the light streaming through the stained glass at sundown and the majesty of the Ark
that creates a meaningful prayer experience, or is it the commitment in the hearts of those gathering to pray, the desire to stay
connected to our past and to ensure a Jewish future that makes prayer holy? To this I say yes, and again, yes.
Stacey Weinreb, Sisterhood President
Sisterhood Judaica Shop
Featuring an outstanding array of Judaica.
Chanukah perishables sale 75% off”
Shop Sundays during Religious School
or by appointment.
Your purchases support YOUR Sisterhood
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
FOR SUNDAY MORNINGS
Contact Chris Kahn ~
zahava13@hotmail.com
You Are Appreciated!
Come and celebrate at the Sisterhood
Membership Appreciation Party
March 6th- 7PM
Sip and Schvitz!
Come for a soak in the Jacuzzi and enjoy an evening of
wine and cheese with your Sisters
at the home of Dollie Gill Katz and Ralph Katz
5629 Cherlyn Dr., New Orleans 70124 .
Please RSVP to Dollie Gill Katz at dolliegill@cox.net or 504-
494-2538 by February 29th.
A Blessing for all Birthdays
this Month!
(Next month March 2nd)
Friday, February 3rd
at the 6:00pm
Shabbat Evening Services
Birthday blessings continue the first
Friday of every month.
Just come to services, no RSVP necessary
We’d love to wish you a Happy Birthday!
9

Touro Synagogue Brotherhood
Presents the 4th Annual
TU B’SHEVAT SEDER
Friday, February 3, 2012
With Special Guest and Scholar-in-Residence,
Gabe Goldman!
Come Celebrate the New Year of the Trees with Us and Share in a Special Seder Meal
THE TU B’SHEVAT MENU
*KumquatKuchen
Kuchen
* Bread with Olivada
* Salad with Figs and Pomegranate
*NorthwestBarleyStew
* Bamia b’Mishmosh
(Okra with Prunes and Apricots in Tamarind Sauce)
*HamimdeKastanya
(Lamb and Chestnut Stew)
*Assorted Desserts
(Including Marzipan-Stuffed Dates and “Charoset” Pie)
SPACE IS LIMITED AND RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED
Adults (ages 13 and up) $18; Children (12 and under) $8
Please call Arlean at the Touro Synagogue Office (895-4843) or
Daniel Checkman at (504)913-0342
by JANUARY 30 to reserve your seat(s)
10

20’S & 30’S TnT @ Touro
TnT@Touro Presents: Bacchus Bash 2012!
Sunday, February 19, 3 P.M.
Food | Drinks |Bathrooms |Friends |VIP View of Bacchus on St.
Charles
RSVP BY CALLING TOURO SYNAGOGUE’S OFFICE AT
(504) 895-4843
TICKET INFORMATION:
$30 – PURCHASED BEFORE THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15 TH
$45 – PURCHASED ON OR AFTER THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15 TH
$18 – CHILDREN 13 AND UNDER
(Payment is via cash, check, or credit card either in advance or at the door the day of the event.)
11

Springing into Conclave JewCCY
It’s hard to believe that it is already February and Conclave is just one month away! JewCCY has been working hard all year to
make this event a success and is looking forward to seeing as many JewCCY members as possible at the event. JewCCY will be
hosting another Conclave meeting, this one on Sunday February 26th. If you haven’t
yet, please consider volunteering to make our Spring Conclave a special event. We
need donations of food, snacks, advisor gifts and volunteers for chaperoning or setup.
Most importantly, we need families willing to host teens from around our region
for the weekend. Please email Kiki at JewCCY@gmail.com if there is any way you
might be willing to help.
Also this month, JewCCY is finally having their joint program with BBYO which was
postponed last month. It will be on Sunday, February 12th from 4pm-6pm at the
Uptown JCC.
Watch out for JewCCY members who will be selling raffle tickets to New Orleans’
Dream Street fundraiser. Dream Street, for those who don’t know, is a week-long
summer camp for kids with disabilities that is sponsored by NFTY Southern. Each
year it is through generous donations of the southern Jewish community that the
camp is able to run. In March, organizers for Dream Street will be hosting a raffle
of a huge range of amazing gifts and prizes. Ask your favorite JewCCY member for
tickets to support this awesome cause!
As always, don’t hesitate to call Kiki at 504 912 5515 or email at JewCCY@gmail.com
if you have any questions or concerns!
Kiki
Kiki Kamenetz, JewCCY Advisor
February
26th
Touro Synagogue
Brotherhood
Congratulations to the winners of the Great Latke Cook-Off
The WINNERS of the Latke contest WERE:
• Liz Goldstein - TRADITIONAL
• Heather Glass - NON-TRADITIONAL with her rutabagalatkes
• Julianne Vered - BEST CONDIMENTS - with her yogurt-cucumber-horseradish dip
Tu B’Shevat Seder
Brotherhood is busy preparing for the fantabulous Tu B’Shevat Seder meal. And this year we are especially lucky
for the Seder to coincide with Gabe Goldman’s Scholar in residence weekend. Friday night is sure to be unique,
entertaining, enlightening and very tasty.
Be sure to reserve your table now, and remember kids eat free.
Brotherhood Shabbat
Brotherhood Shabbat will be on Saturday morning, February 4th.
Contact Adrian Jutner (ajtnr@aol.com) or Dan Checkman (dpc47852@yahoo.com) for more information.
TOURO BROTHERHOOD -- FEEDING THE HOMELESS EVERY WEEK
Our commitment to the Desmond Project continues at Touro Synagogue
EVERY SATURDAY ~ 5:00pm - 8:30pm. Teens and adults welcome.
Contact Brotherhood member Dan Checkman at: dpc47852@yahoo.com
or John Antonucci at antonucci_john@yahoo.com for more details.
12

Family
Touro the In
YAHRZEITS
Perpetually enshrined on the Yahrzeit Tablets of
Touro Synagogue are the following loved ones for
whom Kaddish will be recited at Touro Synagogue for
the month of February.
TORAH STUDY @ TOURO
UNWRAPPING ANCIENT WISDOM
IN A POST-MODERN WORLD
Torah Study is held at 9:00am every Shabbat
morning, 52 weeks a year,
in the Mautner Learning Center.
It is never too late to start;
Torah resources and bagels provided.
PARASHOT
February 3 - 4: B’shalach
Exodus 13:17-17:16
Judges 4:4-5:31
February 10 - 11: Yitro
Exodus 18:1-20:23
Isaiah 6:1-7:6; 9:5-6
February 17 - 18: Mishpatim
Exodus 21:1-24:18
II Kings 12:5-16
February 24 - 25: T’rumah
Exodus 25:1-27:19
Isaiah 66:1-13, 23
March 2 - 3: T’tzaveh
Exodus 27:20-30:10
Esther 7:1-10; 8:15-17 or I Samuel 15:2-34
Go to http://urj.org/torah for other
resources.
Mazel Tov To ...
...Aimee Bain upon receiving
the Maurice Feingerts Memorial
Leadership Award presented by the
JCC.
... Scott Cowen for being chosen as
one of Gambit’s New Orleanians of the
Year.
...Michelle and Max Erenberg on
the birth of their daughter Nadia
Addison Erenberg.
...Tim Lupin upon receiving the
John N. Weinstock Leadership Award
presented by the JCC.
IN MEMORIAM
MAY THEIR MEMORIES BE FOR A BLESSING
Hannah C. Lightman
Mother of Shannie Goldstein
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3/SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4
Julie Hirsch Bloch, Leopold Feibleman, Leon Simon
Geismar, Theone Greenspan, Hilda Levy Jacobs, Gustave
J. Klotz, Sr., Thirba W. Green Margolis, Jacquelyn Barbara
Mintz, Sheba Oreck, David Jacob Rabin, Malvin P. Rahm,
Simon Jonas Rosenthal, Dorothy Feitel Rothschild,
Hermina Ochs Schwartz, Mathilde Heinemann Weill,
Lillian Widofsky, Valerie B. Wolf, Helen Weil Young.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10/SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11
Julia Beer Bartlett, William B. Bear, Rabbi Leo A. Bergman,
Bertha Berlin, Irma Dresner Boczar, Milton E. Burglass,
Ralph H. Fishman, Hilda Aaron Godchaux, Mayer
Godchaux, Louis Kaufman Good, Jr. Michael Heymann,
Sampson L. Hiller, Dr. Irwin Isaacson, Lazarus Kohlmann,
Pauline Mayer Levy, Samuel Levy, Selma Ruth Levy, Amelia
Meyer, Leo Miller, Sr., Dr. Isadore J. Rosen, Charles Mayer
Samuel, Harry Shushan, Esther Singer, Charles Louis
Stern, Sr., Lionel Weil, Frieda Young, Gertrude Appleton
Zarowitz.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17/SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18
Susan Weil Bain, Alma Lemmel Bloch, Charles Bloch,
Isaac Bloch, Flora Meyer Brill, Helen Friedel Byerly, Gerald
Harvey Cohen, Hannah Heinemann Cohn, Abraham
Copeland, Max Feibleman, George M. Gross, Caroline
Weil Heinemann, Harris Hyman, Simon Isaacs, Harry
S. Kaufman, Jr., Beatrice Burg Kottwitz, Herman Wolf
Krasne. Malena Block Levy, Bertha Spiegel Miller, James
Morton, Bertha Davis Ochs, Irma Goldstein Phillips,
Jacques Trautman, Ruth Helen Young, Fred S. Zander.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24/SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25
David Band, Louise Mayer Blum, Harry B. Caplan, Charles
Epstein, Gustave Falk, Lena Leopold Falk, Eva Tulbowitz
Geismar, Robert Gervis, Richard B. Kaufmann, Jr., David
Leo Koppman, Retta Strouse Leipziger, Charles Levy,
Rose Stern Levy, Jeannette Greenspan Mintz, Benjamin J.
Phillips, M.D., Julius Weill, Leo Zander.
SHABBAT CLUB
PRE BAR/BAT MITZVAH STUDENTS
February 25
March 17
If you have a son or daughter who is
just one year away from their Bar or Bat
Mitzvah, please have them join us at
9:45 am on the following Saturdays,
when they will assist the Rabbi and
Cantor in leading Morning Services.
Contact Arlean Fermanis for more
details: 895-4843
or: afermanis@tourosynagogue.com
“Our beloved are with us through
the blessing of memory...
we think of them now;
they live in our hearts;
they are a continual blessing.”
Chaim Stern, Paths of Faith
TOURO SYNAGOGUE
ADULT CHOIR
Discover a new way to pray!
Help us welcome the following member
who has joined our congregation
since our previous bulletin.
Let us celebrate Daniel for choosing to
support Touro Synagogue.
Daniel Walker
Thursdays at 7:30
February 2, 9 and 23
Choir Shabbat - February 3
If you are interested in
joining, feel free to just
show up on a Thursday
night or contact Cantor
Marx with any questions:
jmarx@tourosynagogue.
com
13

DONATIONS
TOURO SYNAGOGUE FUND
In Honor of:
Birth of Harper Ruth Africk
By: Karen and Lance Turkish
Torah Study group
By: Joshua Baker
Birthday of Jackie Toledano
By: Juliet Greenberg
In Memory of:
Helen Sizeler
By: Marilyn and Sidney Lassen
David Schatz
Paula Newman Schatz
By: Janice and Jeffrey Smith
Susan and Lou Good
Charlotte and Barry Leader
Julie Grant and Michael D. Meyer,
Rachel and Josh
Ann and Steve Harris
Hannah Cohen Lightman
By: Sherrie and Alan Goodman
Phyllis and Jack Alltmont
Susan and Lou Good
Steven Lane
Laura and Walter Levy
Janice and Jeffrey Smith
Julie Grant and Michael D. Meyer,
Rachel and Josh
Nathan Wexler
Dale and Alan Singer
Edie and Paul Rosenblum
Beverly Katz
Carol Good
Cathy and Charles Glaser
Leon Geismar
Simon Geismar
By: Evelyn DeBardeleben
Leonard Rothstein
By: Charlotte and Barry Leader
Clyde H. Cole
By: Joycelyn Cole
Arthur Q. Davis
By: Julie Grant and Michael D. Meyer,
Rachel and Josh
Be Herman
By: Sherril Herman
Minnie B. Ames
By: Sarah Rabin
Donations:
By: Beverly Katz/Exterior Designs, Inc.
Denise Hoffman
William Wilder
BROTHERHOOD SUPPORT
Donations:
By: Barbara and Paul Chirlian
Ellen and Bruce Gandle
Lilia Carrion and Andrew Gross
Julie and Scott Silbert
Adrian Juttner
Doris and Bill Norman
CARING SUPPORT
In Memory of:
Tilden A. Levy
By: Joan Sheridan
ONEG SHABBAT AND PULPIT FLOWER
SUPPORT
In Memory of:
Dr. Ben J. Phillips
By: Jane Phillips
Donations:
By: James Mounger
PRAYER BOOK SUPPORT
In Memory of:
Hannah Cohen Lightman
By: Janet and Rene Koppel
RELIGIOUS SCHOOL SUPPORT
In Memory of:
Valerie B. Wolf
By: Thomas Wolf
SOCIAL ACTION SUPPORT
In Memory of:
Sarah Weincord Iker
Sam Iker
Charles Iker
By: Dorothy and John Clemmer
BARBARA S. LOEB TIKKUN OLAM FUND
In Appreciation of:
Rabbi Berk
Phyllis Alltmont
By: Teri and Jonathan Hunter
In Honor of:
Dr. and Mrs. David S. Loeb
Suzy Miller
By: Teri and Jonathan Hunter
In Memory of:
Barbara S. Loeb
Hannah Cohen Lightman
By: Teri and Jonathan Hunter
Donations:
By: Dana and Louis Shepard
BUILDING PRESERVATION FUND
In Honor of:
Birthday of Sarah Ames Rabin
By: Joan Giraud
In Memory of:
Beulah Mondshine Allenberg
By: Joan Giraud
DAVID KANTER WORSHIP FUND
In Memory of:
Arthur Q. Davis
Carol Rubenstein
Paula Newman Schatz
David Schatz
Morris Bart, Sr.
Hannah Cohen Lightman
Kitty Greenberg
By: Patsy Kanter
DONALD MINTZ FUND
In Memory of:
Fannie Klein
Hannah Cohen Lightman
By: Susan and Byron Kantrow
JACKIE WOLFF SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In Memory of:
Hannah Cohen Lightman
By: Frankie Wolff
KAREN J. (KITTY) GREENBERG
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In Memory of:
Kitty Greenberg
By: Karen and Lance Turkish
SAVE OUR SANCTUARY CAMPAIGN
In Memory of:
Sidney Weiner
Sylvia Weiner
By: Marjorie and Roy Weiner
Hannah Cohen Lightman
Paula Newman Schatz
David Schatz
By: Jan and Steven Yellin
RABBI EMERITUS’ DISCRETIONARY
FUND
In Memory of:
Hannah Cohen Lightman
By: Ivy and Fred Kushner
Elinor and Ernest Cohen
CANTOR’S DISCRETIONARY FUND
In Honor of:
Bar Mitzvah of their son, Joshua Harris Balkin
By: Ellen and Mark Balkin
In Memory of:
Elaine Menszer
By: Sam Menszer
RABBI’S DISCRETIONARY FUND
In Appreciation of:
Rabbi Berk
By: Rae Sara and Michael Mayer
Adam Kramer
Ellen and Marc Yellin
Mathile and Steven Abramson
Dr. Bernard Jaffe
Cantor William Tiep
Cantor Jason Kaufman
By: Mathile and Steven Abramson
In Honor of:
Bar Mitzvah of their son, Joshua Harris Balkin
By: Ellen and Mark Balkin
Bar Mitzvah of Alex Abramson
By: Mathile and Steven Abramson
In Memory of:
David Schatz
Paula Newman Schatz
By: Ivy and Fred Kushner
Barbara Marcus
Elaine Menszer
By: Sam Menszer
Hannah Cohen Lightman
By: Barbara Marcus
Gertrude Appelton Zarowitz
By: Joan and Lawrence Zaslow
Donations:
By: The Ben Kestenbaum Foundation, Inc.
Pulpit Flowers
Ellen and Mark Balkin
Carole Glazer Jacobson
Lisa and William Keleher
Stacey Weinreb
Jenni and David Hammer
Evelyn DeBardeleben
Oneg Shabbat
Susie Balkin
Carole Glazer Jacobson
Kiddush Luncheon
Adrien and Errol Genet
14

26 *Religious School in session
- 9 am
27 28 29 *Uptown
Hebrew – 4 pm
19 *Religious School NOT in
Session / Mardi Gras Parades
* TnT 4 th Annual Bacchus Bash
– 3 pm
20 21 Mardi Gras –
Office Closed
22*Uptown
Hebrew NOT in
session – Mardi
Gras
23 * Rosh Chodesh - T’filah
Sunrise- 7:30 am
*Choir Rehearsal – 7:30 pm
24 *Shabbat Evening
Service – 6 pm
25 *Torah Study – 9 am
*Shabbat Club -9:45 am
*Shabbat Morning Service – 10:30 am
*Brotherhood Cooking for Desmond
Project – 5 pm
12 *Religious School NOT in
session / Mardi Gras Parades
13 14 *Tea & Talmud– 2
pm
15 *Uptown
Hebrew NOT in
session – Mardi
Gras Parades
16 *Prayer of the Month –
noon
*NO Choir Rehearsal
17 *Shabbat Evening
Service / JewCCY Shabbati
Gras / Pot luck and
parades to follow – 5 pm
18 *Torah Study – 9 am
*Shabbat Morning Service – 10:30 am
*Brotherhood Cooking for Desmond
Project – 5 pm
5 *Religious School with Pre-K,
9th and Confirmation-9 am
* B’Yachad – Community
Program with Scholar-in -
Residence, Dr. Gabe Goldman –
9 am
6 *Sisterhood
Executive Board
meeting – 6 pm
*Sisterhood Board
of Directors
Meeting – 7 pm
7 8 *Uptown
Hebrew – 4 pm
9 *Hebrew Academy /
Intermediate Prayer – 10 am
*Social Action Open Meeting
– 6 pm
*Choir Rehearsal – 7:30 pm
10 *Shabbat Evening
Service / Federation
Newcomers’ Shabbat /
Family Shabbat dinner and
parades to follow – 5 pm
11 *Torah Study – 9 am
*Tot Shabbat Rocks - 9:30
*Shabbat Morning Service – 10:30 am
*Brotherhood Cooking for Desmond
Project – 5 pm
1 *Uptown
Hebrew – 4 pm
2 *Hebrew Academy /
Intermediate Prayer – 10 am
*Choir Rehearsal – 7:30 pm
3 *Shabbat Evening
Service / Birthday
Blessings / Choir Shabbat –
6 pm
*TuB’Shevat
Congregational Seder/
Scholar-in-Residence guest
speaker, Dr. Gabe
Goldman – 7:20 pm
4 *Torah Study – 9 am
*Jewish Journeyers – 9 am
*Shabbat Morning Service /
Brotherhood Shabbat –10:30 am
*Family Programs with Scholar-in-
Residence, Dr. Gabe Goldman – 4 pm
*Brotherhood Cooking for Desmond
Project – 5 pm
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wed. Thursday Friday Saturday
February 2012 – Touro Events­at­a­Glance
15

SHABBAT SERVICES: FEBRUARY 2012
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3
6:00 pm Main Sanctuary
Tu B’Shevat Seder (sponsored by
Brotherhood)
Birthday Blessings / Choir Shabbat
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11
10:30 am Forgotston Chapel
FRIDAY, FERUARY 17
5:00 pm Forgotston Chapel
Potluck and Parade to follow
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4
10:30 am Forgotston Chapel
Brotherhood Shabbat
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10
5:00 pm Forgotston Chapel
Federation Newcomer’s Shabbat
Family Shabbat Dinner and Parade to
follow
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18
10:30 am Forgotston Chapel
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24
6:00 pm Forgotston Chapel
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25
10:30 am Forgotston Chapel
TORAH STUDY AT 9:00AM
EVERY SATURDAY MORNING
MAUTNER LEARNING CENTER
Saturday, March 10–
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Tulane University
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
New Orleans, LA
Permit No. 412
Rabbi Alexis Berk
Cantor Jamie Marx
Rabbi Emeritus David Goldstein
Cantor Emeritus Ralph H. Slifkin
Phyllis Alltmont
President
TOURO SYNAGOGUE
Founded in 1828
Original congregation
“Gates of Mercy”
North Rampart Street
(1828)
Eileen A. Hamilton
Director of Education
Terry D. Maddox MM
Music Director
William D. Norman, Jr.
Director of Endowment
Touro Synagogue • 4238 St. Charles Avenue • New Orleans, LA 70115
• (504) 895-4843 • TSmail@tourosynagogue.com • www.tourosynagogue.com
MEMBER OF UNION FOR
REFORM JUDAISM
16