DECEMBER 2019 VOLUME 164, ISSUE 3

C O N G R E G A T I O N G A T E S O F H E A V E N • A F F I L I A T E D W I T H U R J

VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.CGOH.ORG / L IKE US ON FACE BOOK @/GATESOFHEAVEN

TOT SHABBAT

TORAH STUDY

For families with preschool children. Tot Shabbat Services are held the first Friday of each month at 5:30 p.m. followed by a kid friendly dinner at 6:00 p.m. Dinner is free. We appreciate any donations to help cover the cost of the meal. RSVP to 518-374-8173 or klaws@cgoh.org.

KATTAN SHABBAT

SHABBAT SERVICES

PRAYER GROUP

LIVE STREAM SERVICES

A 30-minute service for children in grades K-2. Held the second Friday of each month (except July and August) during 7:00 p.m. Shabbat Services. We sing, have story time, playtime, and begin to follow the Siddur.

Parents and infants-preschoolers: meets monthly on second Friday during service in the back of the sanctuary for quiet play.

Held at the temple on Saturday mornings at 9:00 a.m. New participants are warmly welcomed.

Shabbat Vayetzei/Genesis 28:10-32:3 12/6—5:30 p.m. Tot Shabbat and 7:00 p.m. Shabbat Service Shabbat Vayishlach/Genesis 32:4-36:43 12/13—7:00 p.m. Family Shabbat Service with birthday blessings Shabbat Vayeshev/Genesis 37:1-40:23 12/20—7:00 p.m. Shabbat Service 12/21—10:45 a.m. Morning Shabbat Service with Ami Sidi becoming a bar mitzvah Shabbat Miketz/Genesis 41:1-44:17 12/27—7:00 p.m. Shabbat Service

Watch Shabbat evening and Saturday morning (during b’nai mitzvah only) services, live and archived, at www.cgoh.org.

$5/PP

UPCOMING DATES: 12/13/19, 1/10/20,

2/7/20, 3/13/20, 4/10/20, 5/8/20, and 6/12/20

SALE 12.15.19

$10

SAVE THE DATE

Martin Luther King Jr.

Community Service & Soup Shabbat

Friday, January 24, 2019 5:00 p.m. Shabbat Service 6:00 p.m. Soup Dinner 7:00 p.m. Community Conversation with Professor Sarah Rogerson, Director of the Immigration Law Clinic at Albany Law School

A LEGACY WAS BESTOWED TO US… HAPPY HANUKKAH

We're hosting a Scholastic Book Fair! We’ll have a great selection of engaging and affordable books, both Judaic and secular choices for every reading level. All purchases benefit our Religious School! You can also shop online at scholastic.com/fair.

Shopping Hours: 12/4—4:00 pm to 7:00 pm 12/5—11:00 am to 1:30 pm 12/6—10:00 am to 1:00 pm 12/8—8:00 am to 1:30 pm

12/9—10:00 am to 1:00 pm 12/10—10:00am to 1:00 pm

RABBI MATT CUTLER

Hanukkah is seen as a joyful time. Coming in such close proximity of the Christian celebration of Christmas, Hanukkah has become known as a time of celebration—we light the Hanukkaih; we spin the dreidels; we eat latkas and sufgayniot; we exchange presents. It is fun! But the historical story is anything but fun. And let’s not be so glib as to say: “They came for us; we fought back and won, now let’s eat.” No, this was a brutal time of occupation. There was a lot of bloodshed in Antiochus’ desire to occupy Jerusalem. The story of the Maccabees is one of armed rebellion to prevent a conquest. Antiochus responded with a ruthlessness which was a clear catalyst for the remembrance of this historic event.

Antiochus was determined to enforce his vicious edicts upon the Jews, effectively destroying their attachment to the Torah. He forbade the observance of all religious laws; anyone found with a Torah would be executed; circumcision, kosher food, Shabbat, all vestiges of Judaism was outlawed. Phillip was appointed governor of Judea, and he set out to ruthlessly enforce the king's edicts. He decided to begin his campaign with the arrest of the notable sage and High Priest, Elazar. Elazar thwarted Phillip's design by choosing martyrdom over submission. Soon after, Hannah and her seven sons were arrested. When the king, who was returning to Antioch, heard about the events which were taking place in Jerusalem, he decided to take an active role in enforcing his decrees. The mother and her sons were bound and brought before the King. Antiochus tried to convince the eldest boy to abandon the Torah. The youth responded with great confidence, "Why do you bother with this long speech, trying to inflict your abominable religion upon us? We are ready to welcome death for the sake of our holy Torah!" The King was furious and ordered the boy's tongue, hands, and feet severed and placed in a fire. The soldiers proceeded to torture the boy, forcing his mother and six brothers to watch his excruciating pain. Antiochus was sure that this sight would intimidate his prisoners into unquestioning submission.

Instead, the martyrdom spurred the family to a deep resolve to accept their fate and to sanctify God's name. One by one, the brothers stood before Antiochus and defied him. One by one, they were tortured and mutilated before their mother. Antiochus turned to the 7th son and in his perceived act of mercy, he offered a compromise; he gave the boy a chance to simulate submission by picking up the King’s signet ring. It gave a perception of the boy bowing. But the youngest choose the same fate as his brothers. The story told that Hannah was left surrounded by the bodies of her sons, a prayer exalting God on her lips. Then the distraught woman threw herself from a roof and rested beside her martyred sons.

I do not share this tale as a demand for us to perform an act of martyrdom. No, those times are rare—only in extreme circumstances are we given the option for kedushat HaShem, dying in order to preserve God’s name. For our ancestors, such acts were tied to the Messianic ideal of resurrection [m’chaye matim]—Ezekiel spoke of this when he saw dry bones resurrecting from the ground to form God’s eternal army. As rationalists whose theology does not focus on that concept, we focus on a theme found in the Haftarah for the season from the book of Zechariah: “Not by might, not by power, but by spirit alone shall all people live in peace.”

As the season emerges, celebrate with full gusto. Embrace the meaning of the days with joy. Dance, eat, give gifts, and light the Hanukkiah. But don’t forget the pain and sacrifice of those who came before us; they gave of themselves so that we could be free to embrace Judaism and God with true sincerity. Instead of martyrdom, find dedication, commitment, and tenacity as virtues worthy of being emulated.

May this season be one of joy and true remembrance. Chag Orim Same’ach… Happy Festival of Lights!!

Join us in an age-old tradition of community dancing at this year’s Hanukkah celebration. It’s a wonderful way to connect with your community, friends, and family with a circle left, do-si-do, and swing! Easy squares, contras, and folk dances. Smiles guaranteed! We will have our traditional Hanukkah chicken dinner with Mona Golub’s famous homemade latkes beginning at 5:00 p.m. with the menorah lighting, live music from the FireFlies, and line dancing.

The band consists of Jim Broden, fiddle; Sue Mead, fiddle and banjo, Jim Mead, guitar; Patricia Kernan, flute and whistle. Dances led by dancing master Paul Rosenberg. This is the same band that has played at Eisner Camp for more than ten years and has achieved cult-like status for their music and silly dances.

Please RSVP to Klaws@cgoh.org or call 518-374-8174. Fee is $10 per adult/$6 for kids 12 years and under/$6 for Eisner Camp Alumni.

HANUKKAH HOEDOWN

WHAT’S HAPPENING @ GATES

The next Brotherhood sponsored Dinner and a Movie is on Saturday, December 14 at 6 p.m. Buffet dinner by Homestyle of salad, eggplant parm, veggie lasagna, meatballs, and rolls. Movies TBD. The fee is $12pp and $30 per family max, includes drinks and snacks. Free for those not eating. RSVP to Mike at mgauerbach13@gmail.com or 518-381-4432.

SENIOR MOMENTS LUNCH

Join us for our next senior luncheon on Wednesday, December 11 from noon to 2:00 p.m. Richard Feldman will present us with another part of his very popular program about Jews on Broadway.

This program is facilitated by Rabbi Eleanor Pearlman, speakers arranged by Arnie Rotenberg, and food prepared by Matt Yager. This program is free and open to the public; donations accepted. RSVP to Kathy at 518-374-8173 or klaws@cgoh.org.

BROTHERHOOD BREAKFAST Looking for the best breakfast in town? Come to the next BH Breakfast on Sunday, December 15. We will feature Dead Sea Scroll scholar Andrew Fincke. His topic will be The History of Dead Sea Scroll Scholarship in the Context of the Development of the State Israel.

Fincke graduated Harvard University in 1987 with a Masters Degree in Liberal Arts and a thesis on netilat yadayim (hand washing). He then studied in Germany, including at the Heidelberg School of Jewish Studies, and later studied at Hebrew University in Jerusalem. In 2001, these studies culminated in publication of his book, titled The Samuel Scroll from Qumran.

Breakfast begins at 10:00 a.m.; free for Gates BH members, $5 for all others. The program at 10:30 a.m. is free. No RSVP needed.

DINNER & A MOVIE NIGHT

It's been a Gates tradition for 16 years to provide December holiday meal for the Schenectady Lighthouse, a permanent supportive housing residence for chronically homeless adult men with a history of untreated severe and persistent mental illness and other disabling conditions, run by the Bethesda House.

Volunteers are needed to prepare items for these meals and drop off at the temple by 10:00 a.m. on 12/24 and a few to deliver the food to the shelter. Items should feed 20, be cooked/prepared, and in a container you don't want back. Foil pans work well for items that need reheating.

Items needed: turkey, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, stuffing, various veggies (frozen bags ok), lasagna or other baked pasta, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, pies, other desserts, rolls, butter, gravy, soda, juice, milk, fresh fruit, condiment tray, nuts, 1/2 & 1/2, coffee, tea, sugar, loaves of sandwich bread, and mayo (for leftover sandwiches).

If you would like to participate in this mitzvah tradition, please contact Kathy by 12/20 at klaws@cgoh.org or 518-374-8173.

FEED THE HOMELESS HOLIDAY MEALS

CHINESE DINNER & MOVIE Please join us for the annual Brotherhood sponsored Chinese Dinner & A Movie at the Temple at 5:00 pm on Wednesday, December 25. This event will be catered once again by Jade Bistro in Scotia. Movie TBA. Fee: $18pp ages 13 & up, $8pp ages 7-12, and $50 max per family. RSVP by mailing your check to the Temple indicating “Chinese Dinner & A Movie.” RSVP MUST be made and paid by 12/20. Questions? Contact Jeff at cohenj.646@gmail.com.

2ND WIND The 2nd winders invite all adults to their upcoming programs: • December 29: Hanukkah Party and Game Night from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. at Gates. Potluck with Ed's latkes; you'll be a winner already just for coming! RSVP to coordinator Paula Metzner at metzner.paula@gmail.com.

• January 12: Potluck and Planning Meeting at Mary Ellen and David Singer’s home, 953 Douglas Ct, Schenectady, NY 12309. at 4:00 pm. RSVP to coordinator: Mary Ellen Singer at auntcooky@gmail.com.

• February 23: Fiddler on the Roof at Proctors; the 2:00 performance. If you’re interested in going as a group, (and they may be very reasonably priced tickets available TBD) contact Rhoda Gilbert at rhobill1@twc.com.

ADULT PROGRAMMING

ONGOING ADULT PROGRAMS & EDUCATION

SISTERHOOD BOOK GROUPS AM GROUP: 11/12 at 10:00 a.m. at the temple. Gail Sternstein will lead the discussion of the book The Secrets Between Us by Thrity Umrigar. If you have any questions, please contact Rabbi Eleanor Pearlman at ebgp@aol.com or call 518-374-8173.

PM GROUP: 1/5/20 at 1:00 p.m. Ellen Blake will lead the discussion of the book Inheritance by Dani Shapiro. We will have our potluck luncheon at the home of Lauren Savage; Any questions or to RSVP for the luncheon, please contact Ellen Strauss at 518-377-3610 or straelle@gmail.com.

ADULT B’NAI MITZVAH CLASSES WITH MICHAEL SCHULMAN Beginning Hebrew is on Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 am. This is for those interested in learning Hebrew decoding to be able to follow our service. This course will culminate in an Adult B’nai Mitzvah Celebration; it will prepare you to chant and understand the Shabbat service and the Torah reading for that day. This class follows the Religious School calendar. New students welcome. Contact Arnie at arotenberg@cgoh.org. SUNDAY MORNING ADULT HEBREW AND PRAYER STUDY Hebrew Catch-Up at 9:00 a.m. (Aleph Isn't Enough, ch 1-6). Hebrew reading is required. Beginning study of biblical vocabulary, roots, and grammar. Ongoing Biblical Hebrew at 9:45 a.m. (Aleph isn't Enough ch 7 and on). We learn a little, drill a little, read a little, and translate a lot with excerpts from prayers and Torah. History and Prayer at 10:55 a.m: We are studying in English the Kabbalat Shabbat section of the Erev Shabbat liturgy and the time period which led to its creation. Teachers: Lee Brice, Rabbi Eleanor Pearlman, Student Cantor Stefano Iacono, Arnie Rotenberg, and Rabbi Matt. We follow the RS calendar. Questions? Contact Lee at 518-727-6968 or lbrice39@gmail.com. WORDS WE LIVE BY with Lee Brice. Thursdays at 11:00 a.m. No fee. LUNCH & LEARN with Rabbi Matt. Thursdays at noon. Lunch provided. No fee. Donations accepted. LEARNERS MINYAN with Rabbi Eleanor Pearlman. We will be exploring the values of the Talmud utilizing The Wisdom of Judaism by Rabbi Dov Peretz Elkins. Books provided during the class or purchase your own on Amazon. Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or 10:15 a.m. on Senior Moments days. No fee. MAH JONGG All level of players welcomed. Mondays at 12:30 p.m. Contact Bea Hahn at 518-374-0713 or bea254@gmail.com. KNITTING GROUP with Lee Brice. Join us the first Wednesday of each month at noon. Hats, scarves, sweaters, and shawls: all begin with a simple knit stitch, and we can show you how! You will find enthusiastic encouragement and support. Come learn, no experience necessary. Bring your own projects or make hats and scarves to be donated. Yarn available. *Note we now meet the first Wednesday of each month. Dates: 12/4, 1/8 (New Year’s Day is the first Wednesday), 2/5, 3/4, 4/1, 5/6, 6/3. ZENOBICS TAI CHI Mondays 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm. No Fee. Certified Tai Chi instructors, Aaron and Ina Fried will guide you through the yin and yang of Tai Chi, a healthful form of “moving meditation” whose 108 slow and gentle flowing dancelike movements will naturally exercise your body and breathing. No registration needed, show up when you can.

THURSDAY NIGHT ADULT ED CONTINUES SIBLINGS: SECOND TEMPLE JUDAISM AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF EARLY CHRISTIANITY & RABBINIC JUDAISM Taught by Dr. Steven Stark-Riemer

This course is presented in two parts each consisting of six 1.5 hour sessions, featuring a weekly presentation, discussion, and handouts, and continues the study of the archaeology, history, and religion of Ancient Israel into the Second Temple Period. Registration Fee for each part is $45. Classes meet on Thursday evenings from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. To register or for more information, contact Arnie Rotenberg at arotenberg@cgoh.org or call 518-374-8173.

Part 2: Second Temple Judaism and the Development of Early Christianity & Rabbinic Judaism We begin with two sessions on the sect responsible for gathering, preserving, and authoring the Dead Sea Scrolls, before focusing chiefly on the two Jewish sects that survive the national catastrophe of 70 CE the defeat at the hands of the Romans and the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple. In the aftermath, Second Temple Judaism would give birth to both Early Christianity and Rabbinic Judaism. During these sessions, we will explore the roots of both, their responses to the First and Second Revolts against Rome, their early development, and their “Parting of the Ways”. Classes on: April 16 & 30; May 14 & 21; June 11 & 25.

CO-ED BOOK GROUP Our next discussion will be on Sunday, January 5 at 7:00 p.m. at the temple in the Randall Adult Library. We will discuss the book The Golem and the Jinni: A Novel by Helene Wecker. Please read the book before the meeting. Copies are available in the temple library. If you have any questions, please contact Mindy Holland at mholland@sunrisemc.com.

WOMEN’S NIGHT OUT Gates is co-sponsoring a Women’s Night Out presented by B’nos Israel Mikvah on Sunday, December 9 at 7pm at the SAAJCC, 340 Whitehall Rd, Albany. The Secrets of Jewish Femininity with guest speaker Chaya Reich from Mikvah USA… tour the Mikvah and get all your questions answered. All Jewish women of all affiliations are invited to a warm evening of connection and inspiration. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, soups, hot drinks, desserts, raffles, homesteading demos—such as soap feting, recycled weaving and more. Fee $20pp. Questions or to RSVP, call Susannah at 518-813-0633 or Devorah Leah at 917-945-0229.

SISTERHOOD SOUP KITCHEN The Regional Food Bank has a program to help alleviate hunger for children in Schenectady Schools. Backpacks filled with child-friendly easy-to-prepare foods are sent home with these students every Friday. Sponsor a child’s backpack for a year: $183.00 for a full backpack; $92.00 for half a backpack; all contributions are appreciated. Please send your donations to the temple made out to the Regional Food Bank. For details, contact Lorna Snapp at 518-384-1303.

Please sign up to get school updates on your phone or email: Smart phones can download the Rewind App or if you want email alerts: in browser go to rmd.at/b6af38. Non-smart phones can sign up for text messages: text @b6af38 to 81010 or 315-675-4277.

Hebrew School and Chai School: Closed when Niskayuna schools (or after-school activities) are closed due to bad weather. Clifton Park Hebrew School: Closed when Shen. schools (or after-school activities) are closed due to bad weather. Sunday Religious School: See closing or delays: on TV 13 (WNYT), 6 (WRGB), and 10 (WTEN); on AM radio WROW 590 and WGNA 1460; and on FM radio FLY 92.3, B95.5, JAM 96.3, and Smooth Jazz 104.9, and Arnie will also send out an email alert.

YOUNG FAMILIES/SCHOOL NEWS

PJ LIBRARY PLAYGROUP Our weekly playgroup, sponsored by PJ Library, is now held on Tuesday mornings from 9:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., unless noted on our calendar. This free program is open to both members and non-members with kids under 5 years old and their caregivers. Come play, sing, enjoy story time, and snacks. No registration is needed, show up when you can. If you have questions, please contact Arnie Rotenberg at arotenberg@cgoh.org or 518-374-8173.

REGIONAL FOOD BANK

BACKPACK PROGRAM We prepare, serve, and clean up lunch at the Salvation Army Soup Kitchen at 10:00 a.m. on the dates below. This is a Sisterhood-sponsored program that all are welcome to participate. For details, contact Elisa at 518-605-7783 or elisameredithlcsw@gmail.com. Upcoming dates: 1/13, 3/9, 5/11, and 6/8.

Volunteer with other Gates families at the NE Regional Food Bank on Sundays from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. This is a great family activity. To RSVP, email Eric at esiegelm@nycap.rr.com. Upcoming dates: 12/8, 1/5, 2/2, 3/1, 4/5, and 5/3.

BAR MITZVAH

SOCIAL ACTION

Better Together, is our new inter-generational program that focuses on sensitizing students to the challenges of the elderly and incorporate Jewish learning and values in their interactions with the elderly. The Better Together program includes the opportunity to teach students Jewish traditions and ethics that they can actualize in their daily lives. Our Chai School students in grades 8-12 will be interviewing our senior population. If you would like to help out by being interviewed by a student, or helping students with the interview process, please contact Arnie at arotenberg@cgoh.org.

BETTER TOGETHER

SCHOOL SNOW CLOSINGS

We congratulate the parents of this month’s Bar Mitzvah and thank them for co-sponsoring the Oneg Shabbat. We welcome the family to the bimah as they bless the Shabbat candles and lead us in Kiddush.

December 21, 2019: Ami Sidi, son of Chana Maya Ritter and Andrew Sidi and brother to Chava Ritter.

GOHTY KIDS PRESENTS CUPCAKE WARS All GOHTY Kids—students in grades 5-7—are invited to a battle of the butter cream at the annual Cupcake Wars. Join us on Sunday, December 8 from noon to 2pm. We’ll have lunch at noon followed by decorating and judging. Winner will receive the coveted Golden Cupcake Award. Please RSVP to GOHTY Youth Advisor, Austin at Austin@cgoh.org or call the temple at 518-374-8173. (Parents… please let us know if you can help out at this event.)

DAVID A. HATKOFF MEMORIAL/CAMPERSHIP FUND In Memory Of Dr. Richard Ginsburg from Lauren Savage Dr. Richard Ginsburg from Ellen Blake

SUPPORTING JEWISH VIBRANCY (General Fund) In Memory Of Dr. Richard Ginsburg from Fay Grossberg Dr. Richard Ginsburg from Eileen & Bob Michaels Dr. Richard Ginsburg from Miriam & Peter Vollweiler Dr. Richard Ginsburg from Kathleen McAuley Dr. Richard Ginsburg from Rabbi Eleanor Pearlman Dr. Richard Ginsburg from Barby & Stan Harris Dr. Richard Ginsburg from Linda Cohen Dr. Richard Ginsburg from Murray & Marsha Jaros Helen Abrams from Claudette Koza Brushka Shkolnik from Samuil Shkolnik Asa Kaplan from Judy Kaplan Roza Yevzerova Zllberman from Alexander Nelli Sanford Levine from Margaret Levine Harry Friedman from C. Sandra Smith In Honor Of Rabbi Matt, the temple staff, Sisterhood Reyut, and everyone who attended the Shiva in memory of Dr. Richard Ginsburg from Rabbi Eleanor Pearlman Rabbi Matt from Ron Weiss The High Holy Days from Michelle Ostrelich & Howard Schlossberg

HIGH HOLY DAY APPEAL John Berhaupt and Suzanne Gold Bill and Rhoda Gilbert Boris and Julia Gisin Steven Goldberg Holly Loth and Andy Witney Paula Metzner and Ed Bein Marc Rosenbloom Ellen and Stan Strauss Sarah & Michael Goetz Sherry Shapiro

RANDALL ADULT LIBRARY FUND In Memory Of Dr. Richard Ginsburg from Ann & Sid Cramer Dr. Richard Ginsburg from Stan & Ellen Strauss Asa Kaplan from Judy Kaplan Lore Funke in memory of Ellen Blake

JO AUERBACH CULINARY ARTS FUND In Memory Of Jo Auerbach from Karl Auerbach

LEWIS CHAPMAN LIFELONG LEARNING FUND In Memory Of Dr. Richard Ginsburg and Henry Chapman from Sarah Chapman Dr. Richard Ginsburg and Alice Gorowitz from Judith Diamond In Appreciation Of Rabbi Pearlman’s Learner’s Minyan class from Elisa Meredith Rabbi Pearlman’s kindness from Joan Ollendorf

MUSIC In Memory Of Albert Allison from Sharon & Ken Einbinder

LESTER & KAREN GERHARDT CANTORIAL FUND Karen Gerhardt In Memory Of Esther Davidow from Ina & Aaron Fried

PRAYERBOOK FUND In Memory Of

Dr. Richard Ginsburg from Miriam & Peter Vollweiler

RABBI’S DISCRETIONARY FUND In Memory Of Sandra Ostrelich from Michelle Ostrelich & Howard Schlossberg Dr. Aaron Preiss and Kurt Hirschen from Thomas & Stefanie Hirschen David Coplon from Leslee & Ken Leichman Morris Manberg and Nathan Silvergerg from Richard & Elaine Manberg Rakhil Gisina from The Gisin family Richard Silverman and Josephine Kupic from Christine Silverman Walter W. Horowitz and Ted Weiant from Charles & Johanna Horowitz David Feldman from Alan White Shirley Kimmer from Jeffrey Kimmer In Appreciation Of High Holy Day tickets from Arlene & Richard Platt

RELIGIOUS SCHOOL FUND In Memory Of Bella Lustig from Miriam & Peter Vollweiler General Donation: Fiddler on the Roof Tickets from Bill & Rhoda Gilbert

ALAN STERNSTEIN CHEDER SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Memory Of Pauline Jacob, Nola Goodman, Adele Wolman Derby, and Dr. Richard Ginsburg from Gail & Sanford Sternstein Sandy Coffman and Dr. Richard Ginsburg from Elaine & Harvey Cline

BROTHERHOOD MITZVAH FUND In Memory Of Simon Schill from Lusha Kaufmann & Chris Brown Fred Stein from Harry Stein

SISTERHOOD GENERAL FUND In Memory Of Sheldon Kramer from Barbara Kramer

SISTERHOOD DOROTHY LUDWIG REYUT FUND In Memory Of Mildred Cohen from Jane Frankel

SISTERHOOD JILL PAUL LIHEYOT FUND In Memory Of Jeannette Silverman from Christine Silverman

SISTERHOOD SOUP KITCHEN FUND In Memory Of Marga Bachenheimer from Ellen Blake

TEMPLE COMMUNITY SERVICE CORP FUND In Memory Of Daisy Reiner from Roy & Susan Keats

HAHN FAMILY TEEN INITIATIVE FUND In Memory Of David Coplon from Ted Vinick Dr. Richard Ginsburg from Dorothy Meyer

MARWILL COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Memory Of Felix Cohen from D. Graham and Karen Cohen Holmes

YOUNG FAMILIES/SCHOOL NEWS Thank you for your generosity. D O N A T I O N S

OUR TEMPLE FAMILY

Kaddish will be recited at Shabbat services in memory of: December 6: Josephine Auerbach, Alfred Bluestein, Barbara Brown, Samuel Cooper, Rose Cooper, Claire Cooper, Adolph Diamond, Esther Doctorow, Sylvie T Dolins, Abraham Dwore, Howard Edmund, Shirley Einbinder, Eve Feig, Mary Finkelberg, Charles Freedman, Fannie Gewirtzman, Shirley Glasser, Elisabeth Towler-Grayman, Devora Grossman, Paul Hale, Hannah Horowitz, Gertrude Kahn, Dr. Cyril Kanterman, Mortimer Keats, David Klein, Jerome Liebman, Phyllis Margolin, Adelaide Margolis, Donald Mockler, Anna Monblatt, Bob Monblatt, Mark Newman, Eve Newman, Arthur Newmark, Timothy O'Donnell, Dr. Aaron Preiss, Richard Rudin, Del Salmon, Eric Sanes, Louise Savage, Simon Schwartz, Leonard Silverman, Susan Taskin.

December 13:Patricia Allison, Robert J. Biren, Sadye Brown, Albert Bush, Frances Casullo, Pauline Cohen, Mildred Davis, Joseph Dubinett, Nathan Feinberg, Arlene Feld, Harold Fialkoff, Theo Fried, Gregory Gisin, Lewis Goldman, Alfred Grossman, Ester Hamovitz, John Hebert, , Asa Kaplan, Frank Karp, Abraham Katz, Herman Kessler, Barbara Kimball, Thomas Metzner ,Marie Emilie Moore, Louis Nelson, Bertha Oppenheim, Celia Ropeik, Rose Rosen, Virginia Rosenbloom, Miriam Rotenberg, Lonnie Szwarcberg, Reuben Tolkoff, Kurt Wachenheim, Ernest Wasserman, Sonia Weinberger, Theodore Wicyk.

YAHRZEITS

SNOW BIRDS If you plan to go to warmer climates for the winter, please let the office know. We will forward your temple mail and bulletin so you don't miss anything. Contact Kathy with the departure/return dates and your winter address at klaws@cgoh.org or call the temple office at 518-374-8173.

YEAR END GIFT GIVING

We share in their joy and extend warm congratulations to: • Andrea and Ed Leighton on the birth of their granddaughter, Yaffa Meira Leighton, daughter of Zack and Stephanie.

We grieve with those who have lost loved ones and extend our condolences to: Rabbi Eleanor Pearlman on the passing of her brother and past member, Dr. Richard Ginsburg. Marc Rosenbloom on the passing of his mother-in-law, Marcella “ Marcy” Szymanski.

December 27: Alfred Atkin, Sr., Roslyn Berney, Seymour Bloom, Donald Bragg, Jerome Brief, Robert Claridge, Ernest Cohen, Beth Dalby, Edith Davis, Thelma Epstein, Ray Epstein, Pearl Field, Lulu Field, Peter Fisher, Charmaine "Cooky" Florell, Abraham Gilboord, Milton Gipstein, Sr., Chaim Guts, Kurt Hirschen, Fred Koelsch, Barry Lashin, David Levine, Jacob Meltzer, Sonia Moss, Nancy Mousaw, Bernard Polk, Fanya Portnaya, David Richter, Lawrence Schwartz, Avram Shlizerman, Thelma Speigel, Corinne Tepper, Jacob Tigar, Harry Tischler, Ivan Weiskopf, Murray Wennar, Sam Zolkin.

December 20: Helen Abrams, Henry Appelbaum, Eugene Attuil, Simon Broytman, David Burrick, Joan Dougherty, Sidney Dwore, Marvin Dwore, Loma Ehrich, Clifford Elson, Jean Epstein, Leon Gordon, Dr. David Holstein, Patricia Hurwitz, Judy Kaplan, Freda Keats, Edward Lashins, Jack Minkoff, Lynn Nelson, Florence Ravitz, Rose Rich, Paul Sandler, Louise Savage, Henry Schaffer, Jacob Tweed, Rosette Weiss, Florence White, Flora Williams.

Like most congregations, a significant percentage of our members cannot afford to pay the full cost of membership. This happens for many reasons, like a change in employment status, military deployment, medical expenses, the rising cost of raising a family, and wages and earned benefits not keeping up with the real cost of living. At Gates, we are proud that we do not turn away anyone for financial reasons. Our budget is met by a combination of annual membership, fundraising, fees, and philanthropy.

Guardian Circle is an important piece of our financial picture. While some donors opt to remain anonymous, others are thanked publicly. It's your choice! Guardian Circle members and other donors who contribute over $500 throughout the year will be honored at a special Shabbat service on April 24 and dinner on April 25.

Since 1981, Gates of Heaven has relied on Guardians to keep our Gates open to all, regardless of their financial status. Your generosity helps us keep this tradition alive. This year, 49 people have pledged a total of $48,700.00. As 2019 comes to a close, please consider joining our circle. Guardian Circle membership starts at $500 above your regular annual financial commitment. For details, contact Mindy Holland at Mholland@sunrisemc.com or Sharon in the office.

DECEMBER 2019

Ad info. 1-800-477-4574 • Publication Support 1-800-888-4574 • www.4lpi.com Congregation Gates of Heaven, Schenectady, NY 03-1277

www.dossc.org

- Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy- New State-of-the-Art Equipment- All Private Rooms with In-Suite Bathroom

We care for you like you’re family!

The Rehabilitation Center at

For yourpersonaltour, call456-7831

Tell your doctor. Tell your hospital. Your choice forRehab is Daughters of Sarah.

537 VAN ANTWERP RDSCHENECTADY

374-4414

GERSHON’SDeli and Catering

1600 Union St. • Schenectady, NYPhone :393-0617 Fax: 393-5675

Complimentary Hot Breakfast Buffet & High Speed Internet Access, Indoor Pool, Private

Meeting Room, Fitness Center

HOLIDAY SPECIAL RATESOnly 5 ml from CGOH - Ideal for your

Bar/BatMitzvah lodging needs.

Email: ALBAP_hampton_Suites@Hilton.com

45 British American BlvdLatham, NY

(518) 782-7500

“Bringing Art to Kitchen Design”

Kitchens by Christina, Inc.518-388-8685

www.kbcdesignstudio.comCHRISTINA C. FELDMAN

Designer/Owner

Nosal MemorialsOur Lasting Remembrance to Life

SINCE 1957We offer custom monuments,

mausoleums, bronze and granite markers, cemetery engraving and cleaning

with professional service and compassion.

518-355-25952457 HAMBURG ST. (RT. 146)

SCHENECTADY, NY 12303www.nosalmemorials.com

SCOTT A. WILSONKRISTINE K. SHAFER, CLTCPAUL J. MURRAY, CFP®JONATHAN A. SEFCIK, CLTC

7 Southwoods BoulevardSuite 200, Albany, NY 12211518.426.8227• 866.830.5124 (toll-free)SouthwoodInvestmentGroup.com

©Janney Montgomery Scott LLCMember: FINRA, NYSE, SIPC

Contact Clare Colamaria to place an ad today! ccolamaria@4LPi.com or (800) 477-4574 x6444

www.ayelet.com • (800) 237-1517We are proud to coordinate Jewish Heritage tours to Israel & Beyond with Congregation Gates of Heaven!

For all your mitzvahs

www.joanhefflerphotography.com

Ad info. 1-800-477-4574 • Publication Support 1-800-888-4574 • www.4lpi.com Congregation Gates of Heaven, Schenectady, NY 03-1277

The Distinguished Name in Jewish Funeral Service

518.438.1002 ◆ www.levinememorialchapel.comFAMILY OWNED SINCE 1952

The key to all your real estate needs!

Barbara A. WaltonReal Estate Broker

Cell: (518) 527-5800Email: Barbara@WaltonRealtyGRP.com

Office: (518) 213-8791974 Albany Shaker Road, Latham, NY

www.WaltonRealtyGRP.com

K & A LaBRAKE MEMORIALS MEMORIALSSchenectady Saratoga Springs381-6090 584-5660

Cemetery MonumentsMarkers and Engraving

Serving the community for over 100 yearsCrafted locally in our own facility

ALBANY, CLIFTON PARK & GLENS FALLS

518-348-0634Dr. Timothy Lynch • Dr. Pierpaolo Preceruti

Dr. Robert Chang • Dr. Jeremy LassetterDr. Michael Gelfman

Tax • Audit • Accounting • M&A

518-477-1102wojeskico.com

518-783-1600 | www.saatideliandcatering.com

Catering Available For All OccasionsBar/Bat Mitzvahs | Weddings | House Parties | Corporate Luncheons | Memorial Services

Break The Fast And Rosh Hashanah | And Any Other Catering Needs.Visit us at 586 New Loudon Road, Latham or our downtown Albany locations at 518 Broadway and SUNY Plaza.

CHARLES PADULA DDSFamily & Comprehensive Dentistry

518-346-250030 Union Ave. Schenectady, NY 12308

www.paduladds.com

852 ASHMORE AVENUE SCHENECTADY, NY 12309

U.S.POSTAGE

Non-Profit Org.

PAID

ALBANY, NY

Permit No. 797

LEADERSHIP Rabbi Matthew S. Cutler, DD Adjunct Rabbi Emeritus Eleanor B. Pearlman Rabbi Emeritus Dr. Bernard Bloom Executive Director, Laura J. Ehrich, MSP Director of Congregational Jewish Living, Arnold Rotenberg

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Jonathan Falk, President Peter Kopcha, Executive Vice President Jeffrey Cohen, Vice President Elizabeth Desbiens, Vice President Stacey Farber, Vice President Richard Dolins, Honorary Vice President Randy Simon, Financial Secretary Ronald Wachenheim, Treasurer Lisa Morlitz, Secretary

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Michael Auerbach, Andrea Berkowitz-Cerasano, Ed Bein, Randy Belkin, Jeffrey Cohen, Elizabeth Desbiens, Steve Elson, Jonathan Falk, Stacey Farber, Elisa Harrington-Verb, Kay Keller, Peter Kopcha, Joe Krongold, Jeffry Luria, Gerry Magnes, Lisa Morlitz, Jay Rourke, Randy Simon, Shawn Tabankin, Melinda Teter, Ron Wachenheim, Stacie Waters, Debbie Wein.

BOARD OF ADVISORS Richard Dolins-Chair, Lois Bluestein, Ann Cramer, Jeffrey Cohen, Victor Friedman, Gerald Hahn, Eileen Michaels, Sheila Randall, Ruth Sanes, Harry Stein, Stan Strauss.