J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6 / T e v e t - S h ’ v a t 5 7 7 6

Pathfinder Thoughts for This Holiday Season

T he day after Thanksgiving, my family participated at Shabbat services at Temple Solel in part to celebrate the life of Dr. Harold Udelman, my father of blessed memory. My dad’s yahrzeit comes up each year around this time since his passing in 2002. Expecting a time

of reflection and remembrance, I also found myself with a big smile on my face celebrating with two families as they participated in two separate baby naming ceremonies. So not only was Friday, November 27 considered the busiest shopping day of the year, but it also served as a reminder for myself and my family of the seasons and life cycles each of us face every day as we look toward our congregational family for support and encouragement.

On Shabbat, we celebrated the life of my sweet father whose smile, dry sense of humor, keen intellect and gentle, caring attitude serve as a foundation for how we’d

like our children to approach their daily lives. And we did so at Temple Solel at a Shabbat service where we celebrated the naming of two children whose families introduced them to a new world and to a proud congregation. How appropriate to celebrate both the blessed memory of my father and the baby naming of two new arrivals into this world!

I hope that each of you are able to call Temple Solel your congregational family and that in some small way, as we move toward celebrating fifty years, our congregation has been able to help you honor lifecycle events in your family in a caring and gentle way. Please accept our family’s best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season.

Randall Udelman Temple Solel Board President

THE MISSION OF TEMPLE SOLEL IS TO BE A VIBRANT, INCLUSIVE AND ENGAGED REFORM COMMUNITY, GROUNDED IN RELATIONSHIPS AND DEEDS,

AND ELEVATED BY SHABBAT AND TORAH. WE SEE THE DIVINE SPARK IN EACH INDIVIDUAL BY TOGETHER:

WARMLY WELCOMING ALL WHO ENTER NURTURING LIFELONG LEARNING CREATING JOY THROUGH PRAYER AND MUSIC CELEBRATING HOLIDAYS AND SHARING LIFE CYCLES FOSTERING A LOVE OF ISRAEL, AND WORKING FOR TIKKUN OLAM – REPAIRING THE WORLD

Join Us! Jewish Perspective on Altruism & Compassion

Co-taught by Rabbi Dr. Yanklowitz & Rabbi Linder

Thursdays, January 14, 21 and 28 7:00-9:00 pm at Temple Solel

RSVP to Chelsi Johnson at cjohnson@templesolel.org if you plan to attend. This event is free of charge & open to the community. Refreshments will be served.

J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6 / Te v e t - S h ’ va t 5 7 7 6 2 Service Schedule

Friday, January 1, 2016 Erev Shabbat Service 6:15 pm An oneg will precede the service at 5:30 pm. Anniversaries will be announced.

Saturday, January 2, 2016 Torah Study 9:00 am Shabbat Morning Service 10:30 am During the service Eliana Spierer will be called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah.

Friday, January 8, 2016 Shabbat Service 6:15 pm An oneg will precede the service at 5:30 pm. Visual T’filah and Birthday Shabbat.

Saturday, January 9, 2016 Torah Study 9:00 am

Friday, January 15, 2016 Shabbat Service 6:15 pm An oneg will precede the service at 5:30 pm. Shabbat Shira with Rabbi Linder, Rabbi Mills and Cantorial Soloist Todd Herzog and his band.

Saturday, January 16, 2016 Torah Study 9:00 am Shabbat Morning Service 10:30 am During the service Andrew Kort will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah.

Friday, January 22, 2016 Shabbat Service 6:15 pm An oneg will precede the service at 5:30 pm.

Saturday, January 23, 2016 Torah Study 9:00 am Shabbat Morning Service 10:30 am During the service Seth Kasper will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah.

Friday, January 29, 2016 Shabbat Service 6:15 pm An oneg will precede the service at 5:30 pm.

Saturday, January 30, 2016 Torah Study 9:00 am Shabbat Morning Service 10:30 am During the service Zachary Hauben will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah.

JANUARY ANNIVERSARIES Stanley & Joyce Aronovitch ................. 50 yrs Herb Bartick & Harriet Joselit-Bartick .. 16 yrs Richard & Marcy Bern .......................... 32 yrs Craig & Lauren Brown .......................... 11 yrs Ori & Mirit Eisen .................................. 16 yrs Craig & Robin Fink ............................... 43 yrs Ken & Betsy Gometz ................................. 30 Steve & Terri Ann Greenberg............... 27 yrs Jaron & Amanda Gressel........................ 6 yrs Glen & Pam Hait .................................. 50 yrs Hanan & Sue Haskell ............................ 37 yrs Marty & Gloria Holtzman..................... 69 yrs

Larry & Fern Kane ............................... 28 yrs Marvin & Karen Leff ............................ 47 yrs Jim & Bobbi Moss ................................ 38 yrs Laurence & Hillary Palestrant .............. 10 yrs Robert & Sheila Press .......................... 48 yrs Ron & Marilyn Reinstein ..................... 44 yrs Roger & Janet Robinson ...................... 24 yrs Milton & Gail Scharff ........................... 35 yrs Robert & Jackie Siamon ...................... 17 yrs Matthew Marcus & Maria Sims .......... 14 yrs Leonard & Norma Suckle .................... 39 yrs

KOL HAKAVOD/MAZAL TOV Geoffrey Harris, temple member, on his marriage to Lauren Lezcano on

November 13, 2015.

Sharon and Stewart Levine, temple members and head of the Arizona chapter of Shoes That Fit, have received a prestigious grant from the Executive Council Charities of Arizona. The grant will enable Sharon and Stewart to provide hundreds of pairs of new athletic shoes to local Arizona children in need.

Michael Hall, temple member, on being selected to join the NOWGen Board of the Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix.

Andrew Jacob Kort, son of Myndi and Robert Kort, will become a bar mitzvah on Saturday, January 16, 2016 at 10:30 am. Andrew attends Veritas Preparatory Academy

and enjoys playing basketball and lacrosse, reading, and playing piano. For his mitzvah project, Andrew volunteered at Future For Kids, which provides afterschool programs for children in underprivileged communities; MORTAH, which matches peer mentors with special needs children; and Forever Loved Pet Sanctuary.

Zachary Michael Hauben, son of Wendy and Steven Hauben, will become a bar mitzvah on Saturday, January 30, 2016 at 10:30 am. Zachary attends Desert Canyon Self

Contained Accelerated Program and enjoys soccer, skiing, surfing, paintball, video gaming, hanging out with sisters and friends, chess, watching sci fi (Star Wars!) and being around animals. For his mitzvah project, Zachary volunteered with a dog and cat animal rescue organization.

Seth Jordan Kasper, son of Deniele and Robert Kasper, will become a bar mitzvah on Saturday, January 23, 2016 at 10:30 am. Seth attends Montessori Kingdom of Learning and enjoys sports, especially baseball, and he also enjoys computers, electronics, gaming, and cooking.

Eliana Grace Spierer, daughter of Marnee and David Spierer, will become a bat mitzvah on Saturday, January 2, 2016 at 10:30 am. Eliana attends Pardes Jewish Day School and enjoys baking, taking care of and helping animals. For her mitzvah project, Eliana worked with Family to Family—A Year of Giving, which enabled her to help a different charity each month for the past year through the organization Family to Family.

J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6 / Te v e t - S h ’ va t 5 7 7 6 3

T his month we celebrate the holiday of Tu BiSh’vat. This occurs on the 15th day of the month of Sh’vat. The holiday is often referred to as the 'New Year of the Trees.' However, the ancient Kabbalists called it the 'New Year of the Tree' (singular). The

specific tree they were referring to is the tree which bears the etrog fruit that we use for the holiday of Sukkot. There is even a tradition of preserving the etrog from Sukkot and making it into a jam, which is eaten for the first time on Tu BiSh’vat.

It is interesting that this holiday of trees occurs during the wintertime. There are a couple of explanations for this as well. One is that in Israel, the earliest-blooming trees awaken from their slumber and begin a new cycle of growth and fruit-bearing. Even though we are Jews in the Diaspora, we still refer to the land of Israel for our traditions and our calendar. The second is that the seeds

of winter contain the potential fruit of the spring and summer. The Kabbalists also developed a Tu B'Shevat seder, similar to the Passover seder to recognize the symbolism and importance of trees in our lives. This seder also involves four cups of wine. The first cup is pure white wine, symbolizing the paleness of winter. More red wine is added to the white with each successive cup. By the third cup, there is more red wine than white, representing the possibility of spring. By the fourth cup, the wine is completely red, representing summer and creation and the hope of redemption.

In this season of growth and potential, may we all take a moment to appreciate the possibilities and opportunities for growth and learning that surround us each day.

In song,

Todd Herzog Cantorial Soloist

“New Year of the Tree”

To all our Yiddish friends and supporters of the Yiddish Club

here at Temple Solel, we want to invite you to join us for our next meeting to take place Wednesday, January 6, 1:30-3:00 pm. Dedrie Cohen will share Yiddish records from the 1920s-1950s that represent the best of Yiddish comedy, soap operas and music. Please come to socialize, enjoy and laugh! We hope to see you then as we explore and share all things Yiddish. Until then, Zay Gezunt!

The Al Feldman Y i d d i s h Club

A Tree Grows in Solel The purchase of a leaf on Temple Solel’s Tree of Life provides a

special way to commemorate a life-cycle event, while at the same time providing needed funds for our children’s religious

education. You have probably noticed the inscribed leaves, each one reminding us of a special Simchah or thought celebrated by

a temple member or organization. These leaves can be purchased for $180 each. All funds are used to support various

Temple Youth and Education Programs.

A leaf has been purchased:

In honor of the birth of Gideon Roy Bloom

From Mary Ann and Pete Bloom

A Special Message from Bella Kazen Thanks to all of my extended family at Temple Solel. Your prayers, cards, and good wishes are helping me recover. A special thanks to my rabbis for their prayers. A big thank you to Leslie Scheck and the students at The Solel Preschool for sending me get well wishes at the rehab and also the entire office staff. A big hug to all! Bella

Shabbat Shira Service Friday, January 15, 2016 at 6:15 pm

This special Shabbat Shira continues our recognition of Temple Solel’s 50th anniversary and will focus on the present state of music at Temple Solel. The service will feature many contemporary compositions and plenty of ruach! Join Rabbi Linder, Rabbi Mills, Todd Herzog and his band for an energy-filled celebration.

CONNECTIONS DINNER GROUP Come to our Connections dinner group Friday, January 15 directly after 6:15 pm service. We will be dining at Goldman’s Deli (6929 N. Hayden Rd., Scottsdale, 85250). RSVP to Saralee Rahm, srahm@cox.net; Diana Turk, adturk1@msn.com; Bill Brandt, bb@azparadiserealty.com if you plan to attend. We’d love to have you join us!

J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6 / Te v e t - S h ’ va t 5 7 7 6 4 New Year, New Programs at The Solel Preschool!

It’s January and we are very busy...there is so much going on here at The Solel Preschool!

Our new FREE playgroup, Solel Preschool PALs will debut Tuesday, January 12! PAL stands for play and learning, which is exactly what we will be doing!

Children infants through 3 years of age (and a grown-up) are invited to join Miss Angela for songs, stories, art projects, sensory play, and much more! We will meet Tuesday mornings from 9:15-11:15am. Bring a snack for your child and plan to get messy and have fun! All are welcome. There is no charge for this program, but RSVP's are required. Donations encouraged. RSVP to Mary Ann for our first class atmabloom@templesolel.org or (480)991-4545 by January 11.

January is the time to register your child for the 2016-17 school year! Check out our website for registration procedures and materials... www.solelpreschool.org.

Registration is open to Solel members in good standing first, followed by returning preschool families, then new families. Contact Leslie at lscheck@templesolel.org to schedule a tour.

It’s almost time to register for Camp Machaneh Solel! We will be opening registration early next month for our amazing program. This year, we are expanding our programming to offer camp for kids in 1st-3rd grades. The “big kids” will participate in some amazing thematic programming including Sports Camp, Forensics Camp, Drama Camp, and Building Camp. We will also offer field trips and special activities just for them!

For more information about any of our programs, contact The Solel Preschool office at 480.991.4545.

Leslie Scheck Director of Early Childhood Education

Top to Bottom, left to right:

Pre-K did a Space Exploration unit and we made “space slime” which we pretended was from an alien planet

We also made astronaut masks and pretended to blast off!

We made Chanukah cards using paper cutouts and foil decorated with sequins and gems

We celebrated Chanukah in the Hanukkah Holiday Room with a latke toss game

We had a visit from Nurse Chastity who taught us about nutrition and the food groups

J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6 / Te v e t - S h ’ va t 5 7 7 6 5 Reflections about the K’hilah Kedoshah (Holy Community)

Made at This Year’s Youth Retreat

T his year’s youth retreat was a couple of months ago already, but I feel it necessary to reflect upon the magic that happened there.

The theme of the youth retreat was The Game of Life, which took students on a tour of the Jewish life cycle events: Birth and naming, consecration and learning Torah, B’nai Mitzvah, confirmation, weddings, and death and mourning. Preparation for this event was no small task with many hours spent by Chelsi Johnson, Adina Zarchan, myself and Rabbi Mills reviewing and rewriting the programs and getting each detail organized. Students on the retreat learned about the Jewish traditions regarding these events, but the entire weekend had an additional underlying theme that emerged about creating community and connection.

When students arrived on Friday evening after a full school day and a long bus ride, I will be honest and say they were a bit draggy. We fed them and came together for Shabbat and an interactive game that toured and introduced the life cycles. We had fun, but it was not the energetic start we had hoped for. After a full night’s sleep (most students were out 10 minutes after arriving in their cabins), the group emerged in the morning more ready to engage.

This is when the magic began. Rabbi Mills led a brilliant torah study that connected kids to the Parsha and a beautiful service outside that incorporated their reflections of the torah story and the lovely music of Lucy Greenbaum, our music specialist for the weekend. The day continued with several more interactive programs executed with expert cooperative efforts of all 15 adult staff and 21 teenage staff members. Events included a simulation activity called The Game of Life and a station

rotation activity through the life cycles, followed by a team building course at the camp and free time to play sports and games, get crafty, or enjoy music.

By dinner that evening a true K’hilah Kedoshah or holy community had been formed. I took the time to observe as students ate and noticed that the entire room buzzed with happy energy, friendly chatter and smiles. This was the feeling of connection that only a rustic retreat to the great outdoors for Shabbat could prompt. We had unplugged from the stresses of life and could simply be together. This feeling was amplified by the arrival of Debra and John Grobmeier, who generously lent their Mazel Music DJ skills to our Bnai’ Mitzvah party that night. Ruach was certainly raised and we learned that this Temple Solel group has moves like no other!!!

The next day as we watched our slideshow and prepared for our journey home, the kids on the retreat shared their highlights in our Siyum or closing friendship circle.

There were many moments mentioned that would be remembered and many students, including teens who have been on several retreats relayed that this was the best retreat they had attended. Magic had indeed been created, but it did not come out of nowhere-it came from a spirit of giving and the efforts of loving people at varying life stages, coming together to create the right environment to bring it out. Let this true story be a reminder for all of us to look for and contribute to the magic of community as we begin the second semester of our school year and gather inspiration for a fresh start in 2016.

April Goodman Interim Raker Religious School Director

Upcoming Dates to Remember: January 6: First Wednesday for 4th-6th grade

students January 10: First Sunday for Parparim-7th

grade students January 17: No Sunday School—MLK Day

observance January 31: 2nd Grade Naming, T’filah

Service and Brunch (arrive by 9:15 am)

J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6 / Te v e t - S h ’ va t 5 7 7 6 6

NEW MEMBERS Ava Adell Jordan and Beth Sennet Bob and Marion Smith

BIRTHS Gideon Roy Bloom – grandson of

Pete and Mary Ann Bloom Cassidy Willow Tronson – granddaughter

of Ruth LeGrand

Join Rabbi Mills and Todd Herzog for an interactive, family-friendly Shabbat Service

Friday, January 29, 2016 at the ASU Kerr Cultural Center 5:30 pm Oneg (snacks), 6:15 pm Service

Cost for Dinner: $10 per individual, $18 per family The evening will include a chance for families to connect with each other. Service will include a chance to be creative with the liturgy and to have an open discussion about how the Torah relates to our everyday lives.

RSVP to Edie Bradt by January 25th at 480.991.7414/ebradt@templesolel.org. Please note: Rabbi Linder will lead a traditional Friday night service at Temple Solel this evening.

Patsy Parker presents: “Women of Valor”

Monday, January 11 at 6:30 pm Please join us for our first new moon Rosh Chodesh of the new year. Patsy Parker will be presenting Women of Valor for our discussion and learning session. We will have a dairy potluck with wine and other beverages provided by the temple. Please bring enough to serve 6-8 women. Babysitting is available. Please contact Marilyn Carson at marilyncarson6@gmail.com.

T3 News

W e are so excited to begin our 2nd semester of SUNDAY TEEN SCENE with two fabulous elective classes for our teens!

Veteran Teen Scene teacher and art specialist, Dawn Uscher will be teaming up

with congregant, teen parent, and local artist Deena Goldstein to present a photography course entitled The Jewish Lens. This workshop will blend photography technique with an examination of students’ developing Jewish identity. The workshop will culminate in a reception and gallery show at Temple Solel (date TBD).

Temple Solel Temple Youth Advisor, Michelle Ross, along with several visiting guest chefs/bubbes, will take teens on a culinary journey to learn to Cook Like A Bubbe. Each session will teach students the how to’s of new classic

Jewish recipes. Besides eating yummy food and enjoying time together, teens will get to interact with “Bubbes” from around our temple. The workshop will culminate with each teen receiving a class cookbook.

Other teen learning highlights this spring include: January 22-January 25, 2016- The L’Taken trip to

Washington, DC

Sunday, February 21, 2016-A group social action project to implement a carnival for MORIAH

Sunday, March 20, 2016-A special teen and parent learning session entitled, “How to Talk to Your Teen/Parent” presented by Jessica Levin from Jewish Family and Children’s Services

April Goodman T3 Coordinator

Jonathan’s Walk4Friendship Sunday, January 24, 2016

12:30-4:00 pm Jonathan's Walk4Friendship is a 1 mile walk that raises crucial funds and community awareness for The Friendship Circle—a nonprofit organization for individuals with special needs. Jonathan's Walk4Friendship begins with an inspirational opening ceremony followed by a 1 mile family walk. Upon reaching the finish line, walkers enjoy a post-walk celebration with entertainment, activities, food and much more! To register and for more details, visit www.jonathanswalk.com.

J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6 / Te v e t - S h ’ va t 5 7 7 6 7

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee cordially invites you to the:

2016 AIPAC PHOENIX DINNER

featuring

The Honorable John Baird Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Canada

Monday, January 11, 2016 Registration & Reception 6:00 pm

Dinner & Program 6:45 pm

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Palomino Ballroom

7575 E. Princess Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$150 per person before December 18 $200 per person after December 18

Registrations due by January 4th. Questions? Email phoenixdinner@aipac.org

or call 602.277.3318.

Calling All Singles 60+

“Coffee & Carmen” Wednesday, January 13, 2016

9:30 am Coffee & Refreshments at the Kerr 10:30 am Carmen presented by Arizona Opera

RSVP to Cynthia Marcus by 1/6 to 480.451.4727. ASU Kerr Cultural Center

6110 N. Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85253

Jewish Free Loan: Your first stop.

Not your last resort.

What if we told you that there is a place where you can borrow money without any interest charges; a place dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for Jewish Arizonans; a place that offers interest-loans for life’s up and downs and everything in between? If you’re familiar with Jewish Free Loan (JFL), these things may not surprise you. However, if you have never heard of JFL or haven’t had a chance to visit with us lately, you may

think this sounds too good to be true or must only be for people facing crisis situations or severe financial challenges. While JFL does respond to emergency needs like avoiding eviction or paying overdue utility bills regularly, it is only a small part of the interest-free lending we do on a daily basis.

Founded in 1950 by a group of volunteers, Jewish Free Loan has provided interest-free loans to enhance the lives of Jewish individuals and families throughout Arizona for 65 years. Since the organization’s inception, thousands of individuals and families have been able to continue their education, travel to Israel, start a business, tend to medical/dental needs, experience Jewish summer camp, adopt a child, provide a loved one with a Jewish burial, avoid eviction and navigate

numerous other life experiences without the worry or burden of compounding interest. From adoption and IVF treatments to emergency situations to end-of-life care, JFL is giving borrowers and their families the opportunity to engage in life in meaningful ways and our donors the chance to fulfill the highest level of giving by supporting interest-free lending.

In a day and age when payday/title loan shops are on almost every corner and high-interest cash advances on credit cards are the norm, we ask that you consider trying something new the next time you would like to access additional funds – an interest-free loan from JFL. Let us be your first stop, not your last resort. And, if you find that you don’t need us, we still need you. Please share Jewish Free Loan with others you think may benefit from an interest-free loan. For more information, please visit www.jewishfreeloan.org or call 602.230.7983.

Ellen Sacks Associate Executive Director Jewish Free Loan

Tina Sheinbein Executive Director Jewish Free Loan

J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6 / Te v e t - S h ’ va t 5 7 7 6 8 Ben Davis, Bassoon & Friends

in a woodwind chamber music concert

Tuesday, January 5, 2016 at 6:30 pm Free and open to the public with reception to follow concert

Join us as Ben Davis, Executive Director, performs some of his favorite woodwind chamber music with friends and colleagues. This festive

concert will feature music by W.A. Mozart, Gustav Holst, Percy Grainger, Francis Poulenca and David Maslanka.

RSVP by January 4th to Edie at ebradt@templesolel.org.

Stuart Foster, piano Scott Morano, oboe Melanie Winans, flute Mark Fugina, clarinet Paul Seeley, horn

Security Town Hall Meetings Announcement

On Sunday, January 10 at 10:30 am and again on Tuesday, January 12 at 6:30 pm, Temple Solel will be holding Town Hall meetings to review the various security methods that have been implemented recently. Members are encouraged to attend one of the Town Hall meetings to learn about the security features of our facility and operation, and to ask questions. Both meetings will include presentations from the Security Committee, the Paradise Valley Police Department, and Paul Penzone, Temple Solel’s security consultant. Refreshments will be provided. RSVP with your preferred meeting date/time to Edie Bradt at ebradt@templesolel.org or via phone call, 480.991.7414.

A group of international students from Scottsdale Community College came with staff member Megan Young to experience Chanukah for the first time at Temple Solel. Pictured here with Ariella Feld, temple member and Raker Religious School teacher, who was kind enough to show them around Solel.

J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6 / Te v e t - S h ’ va t 5 7 7 6 9 “Paris Lamb” at the Temple Solel Library

Have you ever found a buried treasure? Welcome to the world of PARIS LAMB (2015), a new novel by award-winning author and Temple Solel member Marcia Fine. In her sixth novel, Ms. Fine once again expresses her talent for romantic storytelling blended with fascinating details from Jewish history.

PARIS LAMB tells the story of Michael Saunders, a biblical archeologist who specializes in antiquities mentioned in the Bible. While vacationing in Paris, Michael’s life turns chaotic when a colleague is killed in what appears to be a dispute over relics found in the Vatican. Known as “God’s Gold,” these items may have come from King Solomon’s Temple in Jerusalem. If Michael can prove that the relics are authentic, while facing mounting threats to his own life, he could solve a mystery dating back 2,000 years.

Along the way, Michael’s penchant for digging up the past impacts his personal history. In flashbacks throughout the novel, Michael returns to his childhood home in Miami, which contains secrets of its own. Fortunately, a woman he met in Paris helps him confront all these challenges. Her name is Sandrine, meaning “protector of men.” As powerbrokers fight over “God’s Gold,” Michael wonders if he has found a treasure within this woman’s heart. I highly recommend this entertaining book!

Matthew Kozinets

“A Morning Stroll in Paris” Book Lecture and Signing

with Marcia Fine

Sunday, January 24 at 10:30 am

Please join us for a multimedia presentation of Marcia Fine’s new novel, “Paris Lamb.” Marcia will share stories from her travels researching and writing this exciting new book. We will visit romantic streets in Paris, biblical digs in Israel, and political suspense in New York City. All these settings

provide a backdrop for the book’s main theme—Jewish identity, and how world events shape our personal sense of what it means to be a Jew. Complimentary patisserie will be served. RSVP to Chelsi Johnson at cjohnson@templesolel.org or 480.991.7414 by 1/20.

Marcia Fine is the author of six award-winning novels. Please purchase “Paris Lamb” at Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, and MarciaFine.com.

Thank You Volunteers Volunteers are an essential part of Temple Solel. We would like to thank the following volunteers for their time, hard work and efforts:

Empty Nesters Michelle Fillman Judy and Michael Schaffert Men’s Group Abbey Goldberg Steve Slogoff Dick Jacobs Spin a Little Love Linda Ribnik Knitting for a Purpose Frieda Allweiss Rose Amendola Charlotte Block Dot Bolno Arlene Bonime Carol Brillman Jan Carp Carol Finch Cecile Kaufman Helen Gubin Arline Kossoff Jill Lobel Hannah Pollack Norma Power Margie Rahilly Janet Robinson Judy Sirkis Debbie Smith Joanne Thompson Adele Ware Nancy Weinstein Women’s Pinot’s Palette Bonnie Levitt Vodka Latka Rebecca and Adam Goldberg Yahrzeits Cynthia Marcus 60+ Singles Ruth LeGrand Cynthia Marcus Doris Perlmutter Tot Shabbat Ushers Abbey Goldberg Sandy Goodman New Member Shabbat Diana and Aaron Turk Doreen Feldberg

Birthday Calls Arlene Bonime Bubbe Brigade Storytime Readers Jill Christenholz Abbey Goldberg Rochelle Wolf Sandy Goodman Alice Gartell Mary McPeck Diana Turk Barbara Chassin Myrna Wechter Bubbe Brigade Chanukah Holiday Room Barbara Chassin Shari Cohen Jill Christenholz Mary McPeck Sheila Schwalb Diana Turk Greeters Phyl Bolno Joan Matlock Toby and Abbey Goldberg Sol and Helen Epstein Jeff and Patsy Parker Rose Amendola Farol and Jerry Sax Carol Brillman Scott Tucker Bella Kazen Saralee Rahm Sonny Elfant Paul and Marnee Solon Bistro Volunteers Ben Siamon Sam Banen Sam Hopkins Robert Siamon Jim and Susan Hall Betsy Lawful Steve Mishlove Carol Brillman Matt Ross Adam Ross Rachel Grobmeier Jacob Dickman Mark Strick Ari Strick Jaimee Marks Rosh Chodesh Kandy Wagenbach

Volunteer Opportunities If you would like to volunteer, or learn about volunteer

opportunities, please contact Adina at 480.991.7414 ext. 134 or azarchan@templesolel.org.

J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6 / Te v e t - S h ’ va t 5 7 7 6 10 LIFELONG LEARNING and UPCOMING EVENTS

New Year’s Day Friday, January 1 Temple Solel office and The Solel Preschool are closed.

Torah Study with Rabbi Linder, Rabbi Mills, and our own fabulous lay leaders! The lifeblood of Judaism is found in the study of Torah in community. Let it flow through your veins! Torah study is held Saturday mornings at 9:00 am, January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 in the Temple Solel library and also serves as a minyan for those saying Kaddish.

Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Mills Wednesday, January 6, 12:00 pm, Temple Solel

Downtown Study Group with Rabbi Linder Wednesday, January 6, 12:00 pm at Engelman Berger, PC RSVPs are needed to attend and should be made to Jelena Santiago at jsantiago@templesolel.org.

Yiddish Club, Wednesday, January 6, 1:30-3:00 pm See ad on page 3 for special details

Temple Solel Boker Tov Bistro Sundays January 10, 24, 31, 8:30–11:30 am Building Community One Bagel at a Time! Grab a coffee, mingle with friends, come & meet new friends, read a book, play mah jongg...and more! All proceeds from the Boker Tov Bistro benefit the Raker Religious School Scholarship Fund to assist students with tuition expenses. Any additional donations are appreciated.

Rosh Chodesh, Monday, January 11, 6:30 pm See ad on page 6 for details

Men’s Happy Hour at Blue 32 Tuesday, January 12, 5:30 pm

60+ Singles Event: “Coffee & Carmen” Wednesday, January 13, 9:30 am coffee & refreshments at the Kerr, 10:30 am Carmen, Arizona Opera ASU Kerr Cultural Center, 6110 N. Scottsdale Rd.

Knitting For A Purpose Wednesday, January 14, 1:00–3:00 pm

Bad Girls of Torah with Rabbi Mills Thursday, January 14, 12:00 pm

Connections Dinner, Friday, January 15 following services See ad on page 3 for details

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Monday, January 18 Temple Solel office and The Solel Preschool are closed.

Movie Club Thursday, January 21, 7:00 pm

“A Monday Stroll in Paris” Book Lecture and Signing with Marcia Fine, Sunday, January 24, 10:30 am See ad on page 9 for details

Women’s Mini-Retreat Sunday, January 30, 12:00-8:00 pm

Youth Retreat 2015 Highlights

J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6 / Te v e t - S h ’ va t 5 7 7 6 11 WHAT IS ENGAGEMENT?

Temple Solel’s Community Engagement, Growth and Communication (“CEGC”) Task Force was developed out of the August 2013 Strategic Plan to define and measure engagement and make recommendations to enhance relationships within our community.

The Task Force defined engagement:

“Engaged congregants accept Temple Solel's invitations to become involved in its activities, worship and events. They feel welcomed, accepted, valued and connected as members of its community. They contribute their presence, gifts and talents and appreciate the contributions of others. They seek inspiration to lead meaningful, productive, Godly lives based on Jewish values.”

In May of 2015 the Task Force asked members of Temple Solel to participate in a short survey to measure engagement. We received 184 responses (with 178 answering almost all questions). Thank you to those who took the time to respond to the survey and share your thoughts. The actual survey results and all comments are being used by our professional and lay leadership as part of the process of charting our course forward.

Statistical Trends: Grouping “Strongly Agree” and “Mostly Agree” into the same category, the survey indicates:

More than 92% feel welcomed, accepted, valued at Temple Solel and feel physically and emotionally safe as members of the Temple Solel Community; Almost 90% feel that Temple Solel communicates appropriately with its members;

More than 88% agree that “the clergy and staff

know me and care about me;” and feel “connected

to the clergy and staff”;

More than 80% feel that their concerns are heard and responded to appropriately by clergy and staff, and that people at Temple Solel are accepting and forgiving. More than 82% say that Temple Solel provides opportunities to contribute their presence, gifts and talents and that Temple Solel provides opportunities to grow meaningful relationships with other members.

More than 75% feel that the clergy and staff respond appropriately to their concerns. More than 75% also feel connected to other members at

Temple Solel and about 75% would recommend Temple Solel to others.

There are genuinely appreciative and supportive comments that validate the efforts by our clergy, staff and volunteer leadership; People connect through the Bistro. They appreciate personal attention from the clergy, caring community, and birthday calls and many enjoy services. They think Temple Solel is a warm and friendly place. They appreciate when the clergy and staff helps them. Specific Comments include some recurring themes:

Some members (in several demographics including religious school and preschool as well as 50+ adults) want opportunities to take the warm greetings and grow them into meaningful relationships and to have opportunities to get to know one another.

Members want to know how to get information about Temple Solel.

Members want to know how they can take a passion, an idea or a need to someone to move it forward. While members feel there are opportunities to contribute their presence, gifts

and talents, the “how” of doing so is not readily apparent.

Members want to know that their needs and concerns are addressed consistently.

Members gave specific recommendations about website development, religious school, access to directories, better Wi-Fi and programs to address individual needs and interest. It is clear that “one size does not fit all” in terms of what people are looking for in their synagogue community.

The CEGC Task force is taking its report and recommendations to the Board of Trustees at the November meeting.

I’d like to thank the invaluable efforts from the task force members for all their help in preparing the CEGC report and recommendations. The core group included myself, Rabbi Linder, Randy Udelman, Elissa Katz, Robert Danoff, David Weissman, Steve Mishlove, and Steve Slogoff. Other current Temple Solel members include Rabbi Mills, Adina Zarchan, Ben Davis, Dedrie Cohen, Iris Feinstein, Doreen Feldberg, Rich Kasper, Anne Phillips, Sue Silvert, and Sue Waldbaum.

Lisa Banen

J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6 / Te v e t - S h ’ va t 5 7 7 6 12

Rabbi Linder’s Discretionary Fund In memory of Dr. Harold Udelman

From Lisa and Nelson Lerner From Robin, Len and Shana Balon

In memory of Howard Levey In memory of Henry Hollander

A donation was made by Suzanne Serlin In honor of Lena Weissman’s

bat mitzvah From Nancijoy and Norman Weissman

Thank you for the High Holy Day Honor From Rose Amendola

In honor of Cassidy Willow Tronson From Ruth LeGrand

In memory of Emery Hertz From Clara Grossman

In appreciation of Benjamin Sood’s baby naming

From Barbara and Marvin Chassin In memory of Stan Joseph

From Marc and Cathy Joseph From Jerry and Elaine Gerber

From Phyllis Stone In memory of Allen Stone In memory of Harry Stone In memory of Frances Blechman

Thank you Rabbi Linder From Marv and Karen Leff

In memory of Stan Mintz From Barbara Kish From Sandy Mintz

In memory of Max Zuckerman From Lois Zuckerman From Bob and Suzanne Wasser

Thank you for all you do From Maxi and Bob Joselyn

In memory of Stanley Joseph From Elaine and Jerry Gerber

In appreciation of services to our family From Jim and Vivian Ullman and Alyssa and Adam Cooper

In honor of Rabbi Linder From Vicki and Neil Motzkin

In gratitude to Rabbi Linder From Robert and Susan Diamond

In gratitude to Rabbi Linder From Celia Cohen

Rabbi Mills’ Discretionary Fund In honor of Rabbi Mills

From Vicki and Neil Motzkin

Cantorial Soloist’s Discretionary Fund In honor of Todd Herzog

From Vicki and Neil Motzkin In memory of Gladys Shuttan

From Len and Ellie Harris

In memory of David Feldman From Marilyn Evins

A donation was made by Mat Kozinets Speedy recovery to Freeman Rosenblum

From The Friendship Couples’ Chavurah

In memory of Leonard Monashkin From Ellen and Howard Grobstein

In memory of Harry Lazinsk From Mal and Elaine Lazinsk

In memory of Iz Bernstein From Sharon Cohen

In memory of Allan Neuman From Frank and Phyllis Neuman

In memory of Maddi Jacobowitz From Harvey and Jennifer Goldstein

In honor of the Temple Solel Family From Bella Kazen

In memory of Vivian Golombuski From Michael Golombuski

In memory of Alice Novak From Judy Alpert

In memory of Patricia Kaplan From Pam, Tamar and Leah Kaplan

In memory of Max Simons From Perry Simons nd Melanie Rich

In memory of Larry Hall From Amy and Derrick Hall

In memory of Florence Rigberg From Lynne and Leon Rigberg

In memory of Dr. Fred Benderoff From Paula and Howard Donsky

In memory of Libby Bencoff From Howard and Janice Lavitt

In memory of Max Zuckerman From Ruth Cilio From Raymond and Cathie Rod and family From Gloria and Joel Smith From Rose Amendola

From Carolyn Rauch and Joe Freeman In memory of Tonda Gorton In memory of Joe Freeman

Thank you Abbey and Toby Goldberg From Ruth LeGrand

In memory of Betty Levie From Ethelyn and Howard Cohen

In memory of Louis Fish From Edy Fish and family

MAZON Fund In memory of Goldie Garrison

From Wolf and Florence Brandwein

Oneg Fund Sponsors In honor of our 62nd anniversary

From Len and Ellie Harris

Building Beautification Fund From Ira and Susan Thomas

In memory of Andrea Goodstein-Curtis In memory of Kelvin Levitt

Caring Community Fund In memory of Fran Blechman

From Marilyn and Phil Hawkes In memory of Dick Miller

From Joan Remes From Norma Power

In memory of Hannah Finkelstein In memory of Oscar Povar In memory of Eugene Power

In memory of Rosalie Spiegel From Rick and Judy Spiegel

Choir Fund In memory of Ruth Fields

From Steven and Shari Cohen From Bonnie, Steve, Tommy and

Gary Miller In memory of Morrie Bauer In memory of Leo Miller In memory of Michael Miller

Edward Linder Memorial Interfaith Bridge-building Fund In memory of Louis Sokolinsky

From Frank and Rae Rader From Norman and Frani Wolfe

In memory of Robert Spiegel In memory of Max Zuckerman

Endowment Fund From Avery Crossman

In memory of Mary Crossman In memory of Virginia Glascock In memory of Lizzie Crossman

Executive Director’s Discretionary Fund In memory of Betty Steinberg

From Marlene and Scott Tucker

Dr. Gerald Becker Adult Education Fund Thank you for the prayer books

honoring Leanne Rabin’s memory From The Rabin and Schaffert Family

A donation was made by Charles Vogel

General Fund In memory of Elliott Benson Golden

From The Ornstein Family In memory of Fran Blechman

From Cheryl and Dan Guyer In honor of Judith Dobbs’ 80th birthday

From Karen and Leonard Katzenstein From Dennis and Laurie Checkoway

Contributions We appreciate the thoughtfulness of those who support Temple Solel by remembering and honoring their friends and loved ones through their generous contributions.

J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6 / Te v e t - S h ’ va t 5 7 7 6 13

In honor of Eliana Spierer’s bat mitzvah From Marnee and David Spierer

In honor Andrew Kort’s bar mitzvah From Myndi and Rob Kort

In honor of Seth Kasper’s bar mitzvah From Deniele and Robert Kasper

In honor of Zachary Hauben’s bar mitzvah

From Wendy and Steven Hauben Contributions In honor of Benjamin Sood’s baby

naming From Barbara and Marvin Chassin

In honor of our anniversary From Patsy and Jeff Parker

Prayerbook Fund In memory of Jordan Jae Lipsman

From Jeff and Jeri Lipsman A donation was made by Charles Vogel

The Solel Preschool Fund In memory of Harry Lewis

From Barbara and Marvin Chassin In honor of the birth of Gideon Bloom

From Mike and Judy Schaffert In honor of the arrival of Amelia

From Bonnie and Sheldon Levitt From Pete and Mary Ann Bloom

In honor of Calvin Lieberman’s wedding In honor of David Lamden receiving the NATA award

Donations received after December 4, 2015 will be printed in the

next issue of the Pathfinder.

Contributions Cont’d

From the Board Lisa Banen reported on the Engagement Task force which has been active almost a year. Their suggestions were to do an annual survey of the congregation. Set goals for leadership and accountability. Evaluate the

effectiveness of communication. Develop measurable goals. Randy advised that the professional development will be extended. Leon Gavartin reported that the various security initiatives are in process. There are discussions going on regarding extra security at the preschool. All monitoring will be done by the Paradise Valley police. In related news, Larry Fink reported that the Paradise Valley police is discussing putting a substation at the temple. The Raker Religious School Director search is ongoing. Dick Lamden reported that the Endowment effort is at almost 1 million. The goal is 1.8 million. Dedrie Cohen of the Caring Committee is now working with interfaith families. The final report was from Phil Hawkes. He updated financials to September 30.

Knitting for a Purpose Happy Healthy New Year to all. We hope one of your New Year’s resolutions is to join Knitting for a Purpose. We meet on Wednesday January 13, 1:00-3:00 pm. Please bring your crochet hooks or knitting needles and a desire to create and we provide the camaraderie, refreshments, room and

yarn. Questions? Contact Arlene Bonime at 480.391.1645 or abonime1@cox.net. Cash donations are always accepted. The Purple Society writes: Dear Arlene Bonime and Knitting for a Purpose, On behalf of The Purple Society and Nitalia’s Blankets, we would like to thank you all, who work so hard all year long for children fighting cancer. Every hat and blanket brings warmth and smiles to every child that receives them. Your charitable spirit allows us to continue her mission! Thank you so very much! God Bless, Suzanne Conti, Founder, The Purple Society

J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6 / Te v e t - S h ’ va t 5 7 7 6 14

Deaths We Mourn the Loss of:

Max Zuckerman – husband of Lois Zuckerman Daniel Leff – father of Marvin Leff Stan Mintz Stanley Joseph – father of Marc Joseph Donald Goldstein – uncle of Karen Aland

Yahrzeits Kaddish will be recited on Erev Shabbat on the following dates:

January 1, 2016

Mort Balon Joel Birnbaum Sarah Brody Anna Brustin Hannah Busch Rose Chanin James Cutler Bettie Cutler Dana Dickman Adam Donnenfield Eve Donsky Harry Epstein Max Fischbein Stanley Garner Sylvia Ginsburg Harry Ginsburg Deborah Haase

Gerald Quiat Louis Rabinovitz Lillie Rosenthal Jeanette Rosing Leon Rubin Abe Rudberg Ruth Schwartz Arnold Siegel Lillian Smith Samuel Sonnabend Maurice Targove Morris Vinegar Harry Whitman Murray Wlody Geraldine Wynia

James Harris Morry Howard Max Hutchnecker Leona Isaac Russell Jurgenson Erwin Lanson Samuel Lazarus William LeGrand Diane Marin Austin Matlock Julius Menaged Robert Murray Mira Neymark Joyce Oppenheim Susie Parelman Polly Pass Ida Pitler

January 8, 2016

Jean Barrett Phillip Becker Harriet Benton Hyman Brandwein Anita Breit Shirley Charash Adam Cohen J. Eugene Farber Jack Gershman David Glaser Joseph Glash Robert Gold Jill D'Anne Goldberg Adele Goldstein Phil Gorman

Evelyn Pliskin Ruth Powell Charles Raker Sarah Reinherz Mark Reisman Ada Rosenblum Eugene Schwartz Marilyn Shippey Ben Silverman Oscar Smith Ruth Stalerman Miriam Waldbaum Anna Wood Ruth Yelsky Abraham Zuckerman

Paul Hochberg Rosalia Hollander Phyllis Kaplan Sheldon Katz Phillip Kottle Benjamin Kushnerov Zelda Lasky Fred Levey Belle Levitt Joseph Mayers Doris Megeff Evelyn Motzkin Shirley Motzkin Milton Nomkin Manuel Pass

January 15, 2016

Arthur Brace Stan Cohen Ruth Cohen Elizabeth Cohen Victoria Fallas Steven Fields Adolph (Bob) Fine David Friedman Rose Geller Isadore Gilman Barbara Gold Isaac Goldstein Dorothy Grotsky Margaret Hawkes Laura Jenkins

Kate Passon Alfred Press Leo Randall Rose Rosenwein Samuel Roth Lee Seidenfeld Ruth Slaton William Spiegel Marian Steiner Charlotte Wallach Alex Weiss David Wiener David Wiener Samuel Zyttenfeld

Marion Kaplan Peggy Kauffman Leah Klegar Leo Lamden Edward Lazeroff Rose Levinsohn Frieda Litwin Joseph Loiacono Sandford Love Octavio M. Martin Walter Marx Ola McGrew Stuart Miller Ben Moretsky Aaron Novak

January 22, 2016

Jean Adleman David Bloom Bill Bloom David Brecker Sophia Chapman Thelma Cohen Maxwell Coleman W. Louis Coppersmith Herman Dickstein Clara Freidenreich Lois Frumess Louis Furstman Beverly Ginsberg Dianna Ginsburg

Herman Lewis Ruth Lidawer Lynn Lupton Jean Miller Belle Mintz Natalie Mintz Ron Newman Clara Rotfeld June Sandoval Annette Seplow William Silberstein Gusssie Siporin Israel Stempil

Henry Glascock Bennett Goldberg Shirley Goldberg Dora Goldstein Ruthe Grossman Edith Guyer Evelyn Jacobs Saul Jacobs Charlyne Katz Mollie Kipness Sandra Kirschblum Ann Krips Jack Lazarus Lawrence Leebove

January 29, 2016

Albert Aarons Willard Abraham Emile Carp Herbert Cohen Saul Cohen Shirley Fanger Roni Fisher Ruth Fishgold Arnon Fixman Jerry Germaine Lila Glasky Rosa Hirsch Edith Hutchnecker

Lea Nach Lillian Paull Milton Polayes Rosalie Rabich Harry Robbins Sophie Sachs Henry Sayrs Elayne Schleider Arthur Silverstein Frances Solon Bea Tobin Mary Wasserman Harvey Wine

Janet Kane Harvey Katz Blanche Katz Molly Kreitzer Rose Landers David Laufer Charles Lavitt Gertrude Levine David Lieberman Sophie Lurie Richard MacMillan Earl Miller Reuben Mozenter

6805 E. McDonald Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

480.991.7414 phone 480.951.0829 fax

The Solel Preschool 480.991.4545

Current Resident or

NON PROFIT ORGANIZATION US POSTAGE

PAID SCOTTSDALE AZ PERMIT NO. 24

Issued monthly except August Volume 15 - Issue 5

- Dated Material - Visit our website Via this QR Code

PATHFINDER Published by and for the members of Temple Solel

January 2016

Rabbi John A. Linder rabbilinder@templesolel.org x.122 Rabbi Rabbi Ilana Mills rabbimills@templesolel.org x.171 Rabbi Todd Herzog therzog@templesolel.org x.136 Cantorial Soloist Maynard W. Bell Rabbi Emeritus

Ben Davis bdavis@templesolel.org x.124 Executive Director Leslie Scheck lscheck@templesolel.org x.163 Director of Early Childhood Ed. Adina Zarchan azarchan@templesolel.org x.134 Program Director April Goodman agoodman@templesolel.org x.123 Interim Religious School Dir./T3 Vickie Ryan vryan@templesolel.org x.125 Accounting Manager Joan Giannini jgiannini@templesolel.org x.127 Accounting Associate Edie Bradt ebradt@templesolel.org x.120 Receptionist Jelena Santiago jsantiago@templesolel.org x.126 Executive Assistant Chelsi Johnson cjohnson@templesolel.org x.128 Administrative Assistant Karen Aland kaland@templesolel.org x.164 Machaneh Solel Director Mary Ann Bloom mabloom@templesolel.org x.162 Assistant Preschool Director Sonya Placencia splacencia@templesolel.org x.135 Preschool Office Assistant Kathleen Manahan katmanahan@templesolel.org x.164 Preschool Education Assistant

Executive Committee

Randall Udelman .................................................................................................... President Larry Fink ........................................................................................ Executive Vice President Bettina Chow ............................................................................... Vice President - Education Doreen Feldberg .....................................................................Vice President - Membership Stephen Slogoff ............................................................................ Vice President - Accounts Andy Abraham ...................................................................... Vice President - Development Bobbi Moss ............................................................................................................ Secretary Phil Hawkes ........................................................................................................... Treasurer

Trustees

Sharon Fixman Bricker Julie Knoller-Schwartz David Weissman Dedrie Cohen Richard Lamden Scott Cohen Pamela Ornstein TSTY Co-Presidents: Robert Danoff Rae Rader Talia Boninger Leon Gavartin Sue Waldbaum Eva Turner

Torah Portions/Candle Lighting Times

January 1 Exodus 1:1-6:1/Sh’mot/5:13 pm January 8 Exodus 6:2-9:35/Va-eira/5:19 pm January 15 Exodus 10:1-13:16/Bo/5:25 pm January 22 Exodus 13:17-17:16/B’shalach/5:31 pm January 29 Exodus 18:1-20:23/Yitro/5:38 pm

Gift Shop News

Return Policy The temple will cheerfully accept any returns for store credit only.

Thank You!

Best LITTLE gift shop in the Valley! We have tallitot, mezzuzahs, gifts, jewelry and many more items for all your lifecycle events. Come shop the shop!

Gift Shop Hours Monday 10:00 am to 1:00 pm Tuesday 10:00 am to 1:00 pm Wednesday 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm Friday Prior to Service Sunday 9:00 am to 12:00 pm

Carol Brillman Shirley Dubow Susan Hall Ruth LeGrand

Barbara Krich Leah Valadez