DECEMBER 2018

KISLEV/TEVET 5779 AAC Sisterhood and Social Action Committee present….

NUMBER 4

THE BULLETIN

Join us for Brunch on Sunday on

December 9
9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Featuring Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom®
RSVPs are highly encouraged to ensure enough food!!
RSVP by December 3rd to: http://bit.ly/shalom-brunch
“At a time when we are seeing increasing incidents of anti-Semitism
and Islamophobia, it is more important than ever for our communities
to build understanding and jointly combat all forms of bigotry.” -Joshua
Cohen, New Jersey Regional Director of the Anti-Defamation League
As of 2018, over 2,500 Muslim and Jewish
women have committed to interfaith ex-
AGUDAS ACHIM change and partnership in Sisterhood of Sa-
laam Shalom® chapters throughout the
CONGREGATION United States, Canada, and in England! Chapter members participate in
dialogue, socialize, and take part in social action projects. All the while,
members are expanding their knowledge of each other’s practices and
beliefs, forming strong friendships.
Learn how the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® got its start. Guest speak-
ers will include a local SOSS member who will talk about her experience on
the SOSS Building Bridges trip to the American South—from the Martin
Luther King Center to the Rosa Parks Museum, from First Street Baptist
Churches to Edmund Pettus Bridge—on a civil rights and social justice
journey. We will also hear from local Jewish and Muslim SOSS members and
have the opportunity to ask questions.
Blanket & Coat Drive for Syrian Refugees 2018
Since 2011, the Syrian civil war has displaced over 6 million people
within Syria and another 5 million seeking safe haven as refugees, especially
in the neighboring countries of Turkey, Iraq, Lebanon, Jordan and Israel.
One of the biggest challenges these refugees face is harsh winter condi-
tions, which make the dire situation even worse. Northern Virginia leaders
and communities have united since 2013 to collect and distribute blankets,
coats and winter clothing for Syrian and other refugees abroad.
You can help make this event a success by donating gently used blankets
and/or coats. Thanks to the donated services of Paxton Van Lines and
Maersk, all items will be shipped to the refugees in Jordan this winter, free
of charge. Donations accepted through noon December 9. Collection boxes
are in the Synagogue Lobby.
Event Co-Chairs:
Judith Fogel (jfogel2000@aol.com, 703-801-8088)
2908 V•alley D•rive Samara Weinstein (samarajw@yahoo.com, 703-243-9099)
Alexandria, V•
A 2• 2302

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30
Candlelighting.......................4:29 p.m.
Kabbalat Shabbat Service......6:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1
Shabbat Services....................9:30 a.m.
Mincha........45 minutes after Kiddush
Havdalah Time......................5:30 p.m.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7
Candlelighting.......................4:28 p.m.
Kabbalat Shabbat Service......6:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8
Shabbat Services....................9:30 a.m.
Mincha........45 minutes after Kiddush
Havdalah Time......................5:30 p.m.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14
Candlelighting.......................4:29 p.m.
Kabbalat Shabbat Service......6:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15
Shabbat Services....................9:30 a.m.
Mincha........45 minutes after Kiddush
Havdalah Time......................5:31 p.m.
BAT MITZVAH OF ILANA MORGAN COHEN
ILANA CHAYA BAT
CHANUCH JOSEF HACOHEN
V’ SHANA RUTH
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 21
Candlelighting.......................4:32 p.m.
Kabbalat Shabbat Service......6:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22
Shabbat Services....................9:30 a.m.
Mincha........45 minutes after Kiddush
Havdalah Time......................5:34 p.m.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 28
Candlelighting.......................4:36 p.m.
Kabbalat Shabbat Service......6:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 29
Shabbat Services....................9:30 a.m.
Mincha........45 minutes after Kiddush
Havdalah Time......................5:39 p.m.
DAILY MINYAN SCHEDULE
(UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED ABOVE.)
Monday through Friday
Mornings................................7:30 a.m.
Sundays and Federal Holiday
Mornings............................... 9:00 a.m.
Sunday through Thursday
Evenings................................7:50 p.m.
AGUDAS ACHIM CONGREGATION
RABBI’S
MESSAGE
SHINING THE LIGHT OF OUR JEWISH IDENTITY
Every year on Hanukkah, I make a mess of our dining room table as I place our
hanukkiah (menorah) upon it and try to move it as close to our window as possible.
Why? You might ask. The Rabbis in the Talmud argue (what a surprise) about what
is the true mitzvah of Hanukkah. Every detail of the holiday matters, from the glow
of the candles to the smell of fried latkes, but what is the one moment that
encapsulates the entire holiday? Some argue that the core of the holiday is placing
the hanukkiah in the window so that all the world will know the miracle that was
wrought for our ancestors. Others argue that the mitzvah of the holiday isn’t
complete until we light the candles, and it is that holy fire which embodies
Hanukkah. The Rabbis resolve the dispute, but more interesting than their answer
is the question itself. What is more important: placing the menorah in the window,
or lighting the candles?
Behind this question is a question about what the holiday of Hanukkah is meant
to be for the Jewish people. Placing the menorah in the window is a statement of
presence: there was a brutal war, we were almost wiped out, but we made it; we are
still here, and here we will remain. We publicize not only the miracle but also our
presence. Placing the menorah in the window shows that despite renewed waves of
anti-Semitism, we will not cower or hide. Placing the menorah in the window is a
sign of strength and permanence.
Lighting the candles is also impermanent. The fire flickers, burns brightly, and
eventually burns out. Yes, the candles also remind us of God’s miracles and that
our people have survived through so much strife. But lighting candles which will
burn out is not a message about the temporary nature of our people; rather it is a
symbol of how our people have endured. The candles go out but are rekindled the
next night and then the next and then again the next year and so on and so on.
Lighting the candles reminds us that we must continually rekindle our Jewish
identities. The permanence of our people is based on all Jews continually renewing
themselves and their commitment to Judaism.
The rabbis conclude that both are necessary. Thus we say two blessings when
we light: “Blessed are you Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified
us through lighting the candles of Hanukkah” and “Blessed are you Lord our God,
King of the universe, who performed miracles for our ancestors in those days and
at this time.” This month, let us proudly place our Jewish identity in the windows
of our home for all to see and then let us rededicate ourselves to kindling our Jewish
identities. Come to an ELZ concert. Take a class. Consider Jewish camp for your
children next summer. Read a Jewish book. Engage with Israel. Come to services
and join your voice to those of your community.
As we prepare to light the candles this month, let us renew our commitment to
Jewish learning, Jewish art, Jewish history, Jewish literature, and our Jewish selves.
Hag Urim Sameah, Happy Festival of Lights!
MORNING/EVENING MINYAN
Please help us to maintain our daily minyan. If someone is saying kaddish and
we don’t have ten people, kaddish cannot be recited.
Some of the regulars say that attending minyan gives them a wonderful start or end for
the day, and that the friendships they have made there have been true and lasting. Check
for yourself – join us whenever you can.
PAGE 2
 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25 &
Kenneth Labowitz JANUARY 1
● MORNING MINYAN WILL TAKE
PLACE AT 9:00 A.M.
It is hard to find much to be positive about the shootings at Tree of Life in ● THE AAC OFFICES WILL BE
Pittsburgh on October 27. CLOSED
DUE TO THE FEDERAL HOLIDAYS.
The grief is real for the families in Pittsburgh. The anxiety for Jews across
North America is real, and in a sense our sense of innocence – “it can’t happen to
THERE WILL BE NO EVENING
us” – is lost. As with Jewish organizations and congregations across the continent,
MINYAN ON
we are taking affirmative steps to improve the security of our space, a space that
MONDAY, DECEMBER 31.
has been devoted to prayer, community, and sanctuary. There will expense that we
have not budgeted for in making those improvements.
What has been particularly gratifying has been the support that we have
AAC CAN EARN MONEY THROUGH
received individually and as a synagogue from those around us. Old friends such as
AMAZON SMILE
Westminster Presbyterian Church and Trinity United Methodist Church made sure
to let us know that their members were thinking of us in this stressful time, as did Do you shop Amazon? You could
Alfred Street Baptist Church. The Basilica of St. Mary’s Catholic Community in be supporting AAC with every
Old Town Alexandria sent flowers and good wishes. Many of us received purchase. Use the Amazon Smile web
consoling messages from people we knew and those we don’t, simply letting us address and Amazon will donate 0.5%
know that we do not experience this tragedy alone. of the price of eligible purchases to
The sign board at Commonwealth Baptist Church in the Rosemont area of AAC. Visit the Support Us page on the
Alexandria read “To our Jewish friends: We Love You and Stand by You.” That AAC website for all the details
touched me every time I drove past on Commonwealth Avenue. including a link to
In our congregation, we have been blessed with the energy and initiative of the Amazon Smile
many who have devoted hours to responding to this new reality of enhanced website.
concern for security, starting with Rabbi Rein and Executive Director Barry Nove.
Changes throughout the synagogue are being made, some simple and small, others
quite obvious. The Security Committee and its leaders Larry Altenburg, Phil
Carter, and Beth Robbins, bring actual security expertise into the efforts we are
making. THANK YOU TO
There will be inconveniences that we will have to deal with. The only point of STACY KREPPEL FOR
entry into the building will be through the wooden front doors facing Valley Drive. PROOFREADING THIS
The door to the back parking lot will no longer will available as an entry; those MONTH’S BULLETIN.
parking back there will have to come around to enter through the front.
We live in a different world than that existing on October 26. We will work AAC ACTIVE SENIORS
together to make the best of this new reality. LUNCH AND LEARN PROGRAM
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20
CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER AT 12:00 NOON – 2:00 P.M.
CARPENTER’S SHELTER LAINOF AUDITORIUM
Join us as we welcome Helping
Sisterhood will once again host the Christmas Eve dinner on Monday,
Hearts through the Arts (HHA). Get
December 24. There are many ways to be involved and support this dinner:
ready to tap your toes, click your heels,
● Donate food (both purchased and homemade)
and shimmy like your sister Kate. We
● Donate drinks (water, juice, soda, etc.)
will be entertained by this group of
● Donate gift cards to from Giant, Safeway, etc. or money to go toward the
dancers, ranging in age from 40s-70s,
purchase of food and drink not donated. (Please do so by December 19.
who voluntarily dance with this group.
Make checks payable to “Agudas Achim Sisterhood” with “Carpenter’s
We look forward to welcoming AAC’s
Shelter Dinner” on the memo line. Mail to or drop off at Agudas Achim
Rachel Goldberg and her colleagues at
Congregation
this event.
● Volunteer to help serve and clean up from dinner.
This program is funded in full by
Questions or to sign up for food donations/hands-on support should be AAC Sisterhood although donations are
directed to Lisa Bregman. lisa.bregman@verizon.net. 571-218-4526 (daytime) welcome and reservations are required.
or 571-643-8272 (evenings and weekends). Information regarding food drop RSVP by Thursday, December 6 to
off locations and times will be provided to volunteers closer to the event date, Jane Bergen (janebergen@verizon.net
due to the temporary location of Carpenter’s Shelter at Landmark Mall. /703-861-6419).

NOVEMBER 2018 P AGE 3

 INCLUSION FOR OUR CHILDREN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S
DEBBIE PERRY MESSAGE
On October 28 a group of parents from Barry Nove
Agudas Achim gathered to talk about how
children with a variety of special needs and Our President, Ken Labowitz, will be sharing soon that the congregation has a
differences are included in our commitment of a substantial gift that is both unexpected and shows a great deal of
congregation and religious school. We caring for our congregation and community. I believe this gift has come about
began by asking, “What is a disability?” because the Strategic Planning Process has proved so beneficial. We sought input
Disabilities look different from person to from so many, while helping us begin to address how we can be even better.
person. As a society we are quick to think One of the first things members began saying to me when I first became Executive
of a disability as someone in a wheelchair, Director was: “We need to update the Sanctuary’s carpet.”
someone with an intellectual disability,
That was a tall order, but it never hurts to do some research, which led to it
someone who is blind, etc. We often
being added to the synagogue’s “Wish List.” The fact is this special gift will not
forget, or are unaware of, the “invisible
only fund that “wish” but provide new carpeting throughout the ENTIRE building,
disabilities.” Many of us who have an
not just in the Sanctuary. It will also fund the dedication of one of the last two
“invisible disability” or a child with one
pillars. Now, to be honest, it would be much more efficient to have the artist come
may not even classify our situation as a
back and put up the artwork of the last pillar at the same time.
disability because it may not affect every
moment of everyday. Therefore, I’d like to propose that the last pillar be a “Legacy” pillar, dedicated
by families who include Agudas Achim in their wills or through other planned
According to the Invisible Disabilities
gifts. It’s possible that you or a number of our families actually already have
Association an invisible disability is
included the congregation in your will or estate plan. By letting us know, you can
defined as “a physical, mental or
help us dedicate this last pillar.
neurological condition that limits a
person’s movements, senses, or activities One of our pillars was dedicated years ago through a planned gift. Lynne and
that is invisible to the onlooker.” This may Don Sandler established a Charitable Remainder Unitrust, and the congregation is
include psychiatric disabilities (depression, receiving the charitable remainder. Establishing a charitable testamentary gift to
anxiety, PTSD, etc), medical illnesses the congregation and letting us know would help us reach the $100,000 dedication
(diabetes, food allergies, asthma, etc.), amount. If you’ve already included the congregation in your will, please let us
learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, brain know and we can recognize that legacy now as part of the “Legacy” pillar. I’ve
injuries, and more. It is quite possible that mentioned previously that making a nonprofit like the synagogue a beneficiary of
you have an invisible disability and it’s an IRA, or even a portion of one, can save heirs money in taxes. If such an idea
quite probable that when you attend a interests you, I encourage you to contact your financial advisor to see if that would
service or event at the synagogue you be mutually beneficial to your estate plan as well. All Legacy donors will be
interact with someone with an invisible recognized as helping us dedicate the last pillar.
disability. Our plan is to replace the carpeting in the Sanctuary this summer, so that the
For our children, many of these congregation will be able to enjoy the new look in time for the High Holy Days.
invisible disabilities can look like poor The last pillar being made possible through legacy gift commitments would
behavior, being rude, or being disruptive. truly be wonderful… and I am more than happy to speak with any family interested
Think about the older child you have in learning more about how they could leave a legacy.
seen who just cannot sit still. What about
the child who doesn’t respond when you Thank you.
ask them a question or the child who is Barry Nove
frequently jumping or bumping into
people? It could be that these children you stop and think about what may be causing these children to act the way they
have sensory needs in which their body do. Have compassion. Have patience. Ask if you can help. Please remember to
does not feel or hear things the way welcome the stranger. Let’s create an environment where our children of all
yours does. It could be that he or she is abilities are welcome in our services, events, and school. Ben Azzai taught,
unable to speak without stuttering or is “Despise no one and call nothing useless. For there is no thing that does not have
incredibly anxious when in new places or its place and no person whose hour does not come.” (Pirkei Avot 4:3).
with new people. As parents of children Some wonderful ideas were discussed at our round table including beginning
with invisible and visible disabilities we a parent support group, training for our religious school teachers on how to include
ask that before you judge these children and accommodate children with disabilities in the classroom, and more education
to be poorly behaved or disruptive that for our congregation on what different disabilities looks like and how to truly be
(Continued on next column.)
welcoming, inclusive, and supportive.

AGUDAS ACHIM CONGREGATION PAGE 4

 DEAR HAZZAN MEN’S CLUB MENSCHENINGS
ELLIOT PARKIN, MEN’S CLUB PRESIDENT
Hazzan Elisheva Dienstfrey
Thank you to the many donors to
our 2018 Yellow Candle campaign in
commemoration of those who perished
THE BEST OF…..HANUKA** ON YOUTUBE! in the Holocaust. The net proceeds of
If you are anything like me, the days leading up to Hanukkah are a frantic and over $1,300 were distributed equally
harried search for the best, the most awesome, the most treasured Hanukkah videos among the United States Holocaust
on YouTube from the past year. Well, to make things easier, I have done the Memorial Museum, The Center for
research for you, and I found this wonderful compilation of Channukah YouTube Advancing Holocaust Survivor Care, and
videos from 2017. I know, it’s already 2018, and maybe by the time this Bulletin the Ed and Charlene Schiff Holocaust
article comes out there will be Chanuka videos from this year, but right now, the Educational Fund. Save the date for
only ones that are available are from last year. Fortunately, they are still a lot of Sunday morning February 3 when we
fun to watch – especially the video “How do you spell Hannukah?” Here is the link will kickoff the 2019 campaign with a
to the compilation called “This Year’s Top Chanukah Videos” from the New York bagels and lox brunch and a speaker
Jewish Week. appropriate for the occasion.
https://jewishweek.timesofisrael.com/watch-this-years-top-chanukah-videos/ The Men’s Club Israel Pilgrimage
You can type out the link as I’ve pasted it above, or you can just type in your Scholarship Program has provided 100
google browser: “Top Chanukah Videos” and the first link to pop up is probably scholarships over the past thirty years to
the correct link. teens of the Congregation for Israel
experiences. We look forward to having
There are three a cappella groups featured in this compilation: Six13, YStuds, 2018 scholarship participants speak to the
and The Maccabeats. They are not only talented, but know how to blend humor congregation during Shabbat services on
and harmony and appeal to the young and old alike. Have fun watching these January 12. If you have a teen who is
videos and Hag Urim Sameach – Happy Holiday of Lights! interested in a peer trip to Israel, contact
Mike Scheinberg (mike@schuschein.com)
*Please Note: This column will alternate between music reviews/ for scholarship details.
recommendations and “Dear Hazzan” letters. If you would like to introduce or
recommend recordings, or if you have a question for the Hazzan regarding the We would greatly appreciate your
ritual, liturgy, and/or music of the synagogue, please write Hazzan Dienstfrey at support by sending in your membership
the synagogue (2908 Valley Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302) or email her at dues if you have not already done so for
HazzanERLD@hotmail.com. the New Year 5779. Our nominal dues
are $36, but please consider donating
**The multiple spellings of the word “Hanukkah” in this article is intentional. Just “Chai’er” amounts, such as $54, $72,
watch the video – then you will understand. $90, or $108. We welcome your ideas
for future events as well as your help
with activities. Please contact me at
elliot.parkin@gmail.com or 703-575-
7879 with your particular interests.

OPEN HOUSES PRESCHOOL CLOSED

for the 2019-2020 year DECEMBER 25
THROUGH
JANUARY 2.

Tuesday, December 11
7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Wednesday, December 12
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon
Visit the AAC website or contact
Jen Halpern, Preschool Director
preschool@agudasachim-va.org.

NOVEMBER 2018 P AGE 5

 YOUNG FAMILIES
Programming and community
focused on families with
children ages 0-5.
ONGOING EVENTS
Gan Shabbat
Saturdays 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon
Volunteer led service for kids ages
0-5, accompanied by an adult. Looking
for volunteers to lead – no experience
necessary.
Oh Say Shalom Sing-a-Long and
Playgroup
Sunday, December 2 | 11:00 a.m.
Hazzan Elisheva Dienstfrey leads
songs for the first half hour with free
play after. No Jewish knowledge or
experience necessary. Each child
requires a grownup.
Shababy Kabbalat Shabbat
Friday, December 21 | 5:30 p.m.
Friday night service for kids 0-5 and station all afternoon.
parents with songs, instruments, scarves,
dancing, parachutes, challah, and juice. Ettedgui, Liora Ettedgui, and Ari Halpern, thank you for manning our game and
CONNECT WITH YOUNG
FAMILIES
  Find  us  on  the  Facebook  ‟Agudas
Achim Young Families” Group to keep
track of what is going on and receive the
latest updates! For more information or to
get involved contact:
aacyoungfamilies@gmail.com
Hannah Kraushaar
Jennifer Munz
MacKenzie Silverman
SAVE THE DATE
YOUNG FAMILY HANUKKAH
CANDLELIGHTING
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2
Join us for the first night of
Hanukkah on Sunday, December 2.
We will light candles, play dreidel
and do fun crafts. Details and RSVP
information coming
in the Weekly
Update email and on
the Young Families
Facebook page.
AGUDAS ACHIM CONGREGATION
PRESCHOOL NEWS
Jen Halpern, Director
TODA RABAH - PRESCHOOL FALL FESTIVAL WRAP-UP
Almost 200 children and their families helped the preschool celebrate its 13
anniversary at the Fall Festival on November 4. In addition to preschool families,
current and former, numerous families from the neighborhood joined us for a day
of arts and crafts, games and prizes, a petting zoo, a moon bounce, and a
performance by Rainbow Rock Band.
The day wouldn’t have been possible without the help and support of so many
wonderful volunteers and donors. I must extend a multitude of thanks to Stephanie
Byrne, a preschool parent volunteer, for suggesting the Fall Festival in the first
place, for planning so many of the activities, for soliciting so many donations, and
for volunteering so many hours of her time. Thank you, Stephanie!
Thank you also to preschool parents Brooke Ringel, Alex Perry, and Elliot
Golden for helping us set up and clean up. We couldn’t have gotten ready for the
day without your help.
Thank you to preschool parent Amy Gura, former preschool parent Rachel
Albert, and preschool alum Aviva Albert for working tirelessly at the face painting
To my former Gesher students: Dalia Fishman, Noah Krischer, Anouchka
snack stations. More importantly, thank you for showing your support for your
wider Jewish community.
Thank you, Marya Runkle, for dedicating even more of your time to Agudas
Achim. Preschool teacher Susan Auerhan, thank you for giving up a Sunday
afternoon to support your school and your families. Gesher friends Jodi Rein and
Jen Scher, thank you for spending your afternoon with us. (And happy anniversary
number 36 to Gesher!) Thank you all for being such friendly and welcoming faces
at the registration table.
Preschool alumni David Runkle, Jacob Sanchez, Margalit Dienstfrey, Virginia
Arnold, Mary Arnold, and former preschool parents Arden Levy and Ellen Bayer,
thank you so much for coming out to support your extended preschool family, and
for helping us remember how much the preschool has grown and how many lives it
has affected.
To my neighbors, Maximillian, Michaela, and Madison Islas, thank you for
coming out to play with us. I hope you enjoyed selling snacks with Ari and helping
out at the petting zoo.
Wegmans, thank you for donating apples that we could give away for free, and
Krispy Kreme, thank you for donating donuts for our snack table.
Diversions, thank you for the balloons, and Greenstreet Gardens, thank you for
the hay bales. Your decorations helped brighten our day.
To the Alexandria Police Department and the Alexandria Fire Department,
thank you for coming to our Fall Festival to celebrate with us. Your police cruiser
and fire truck were such a huge hit.
PAGE 6
 BRINGING ISRAEL TO between Israelis and American Jews -
AGUDAS: OUR SHLICHA, our two communities have many
MIRI BERNOVSKY differences and gaps between them but
we need to support and empower each
Shalom Chaverim. other. Now more than ever.
As you are reading these lines, I’m in Israel - and I’m there with more than two
dozen Agudas Achim members who joined us for our congregational trip! As I’m SAVE THE DATE
writing these lines, however, I’m still in my living room in Alexandria, so I can’t
report on what is happening during the trip - for updates on that, you’ll have to KOSHER/SOUL
check my “Miri Bernovksy Shlicha” Facebook account (and if you aren’t yet one WITH
Facebook friends with me - better later than never...).
MICHAEL TWITTY
This trip means a lot for me. When I arrived at Agudas last summer, in one of
my first conversations with Rabbi Rein, we discussed a theoretical idea of Culinary and cultural historean,
organizing such a trip for late 2018. I feel proud and happy that we were able to do chef, Judaics teacher, food blogger
it. The idea behind this trip, for me, is to bring a lot of my personal Israel to and author, Michael Twitty, will join us
members of the community. Our itinerary includes a visit to my Kibbutz, Nahal Oz, for a special evening of food and
where I’m going to do something I’m super excited about: introduce my Kibbutz stories. Blacks and Jews have mitigated
neighbors and friends to my NoVa neighbors and friends. This is what it means to otherness and oppression using what
create connections. they eat as well as the global stories
This trip comes just weeks after the terrible tragedy at Tree of Life synagogue Diasporic foodways have to offer. For
in Pittsburgh. This terrible incident hit close to home for my family: Amir had to detailed information, and to purchase
go cover it and met many members of the local community. Coincidentally, his tickets and sponsorship, go to:
mother Gali was invited to teach a course about the Holocaust this semester at
Carnegie Mellon University. http://bit.ly/michael-twitty
I’m full of pain and sorrow over what happened to the Pittsburgh community.
This event makes it more important than ever, in my opinion, to strengthen the ties

THIS SPACE IS

3-D-4-5 For ad info. call 1-800-477-4574 • www.4lpi.com 14-0995

 “MAH KOREH” - WHAT’S HAPPENING IN
THE EDUCATION AND YOUTH DEPARTMENT
Chaya Silver
Youth/Education Director

KINDERGARTEN FAMILY
LEARNING

Katherine Allen, David Weingart Aiden Ramos and his father

and their daughter Devora work Melvin add a special drawing to
together to make a pillowcase with their pillowcase.
the Sh’ma on it. Esther and Hedieh Fusfield smile
as they work.

FOURTH GRADE MITZVAH MANIA

Fourth graders from around NOVA gathered for the annual Mitzvah Mania event at Temple Rodef Shalom.

Ari Runkle and Noa Kammerman

Avery Altenburg assembles dry make tzedakah boxes. Jack Rosenthal, Gabby Wilson, and
soup packets. Anna Snyder work to make gifts for
those in need.

AGUDAS ACHIM CONGREGATION PAGE 8

IN THE FAMILY
OUR SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO: HAZZAN'S DISCRETIONARY FUND
Cheryl Nelson In appreciation of Elisheva Dienstfrey's kindness when Les'
on the death of her cousin, Peggy Harris z"l, brother passed away.
and aunt, Marble Burton z"l. Lester & Joan Edelman
Gary and Brianna Zuckerman In memory of Anna Helman.
on the death of Gary's niece and Brianna's cousin, Gerald Helma
Melissa Zuckerman z"l. In honor of Elisheva Dienstfrey for her generous participation in
our family's special Simcha.
Tamar Gelboin and Adam, Ally, Dalit, and Talia Milewich Richard & Beth-Ann Kirby
on the death of their aunt and great-aunt, Helen Friedman z"l. In memory of Betty Jean Linver, Michael Linver's Mother and
Andrea and David Flax Elisheva's Grandmother.
on the death of their cousin Rachael Kaflowitz z"l. Patricia Franklin
Marty & Norman Hallowell
Daniel and Ava Munz Mickey & Allan Lazarus
on the death of their grandmother and Arden Levy & Anthony Sanchez
great-grandmother, Claire Munz z"l. Mirza & Rafael Lopez
Dr. Lawrence (Larry) Kotler Karen & Elliot Parkin
on the death of his wife Marija Kotler z"l. James & Elizabeth Robbins
Nancy Siega
Sue Finger In memory of Max Stern beloved father.
on the death of her mother, Dorothy Kraushar Finger z''l. Renee Roberts
Don Sandler on death of his sister; Miriam Berkowitz and Minda In appreciation of the caring assistance of Hazzan Dienstfrey.
Lehto on the death of their aunt; Natalie Berkowitz and Julie Victor & Judy Tynes
Berkowitz on the death of her great-aunt; and Silas Davis on the HENRY H. KREVOR FUND FOR SOCIAL ACTION
death of his great-great aunt, Bette Levin z"l. In Memory of Ruth Welland
Marty & Norman Hallowell
MAZEL TOV TO:
In Memory of Victor Tynes, Sr.
Barbara Elkin and Paul Klein
Leib Kaminsky
on the birth of their granddaughter, Beatrice Batya Austerklein.
In Memory of Ruth Krevor My Mother-in-Law, on her Yarzheit
CAMP RAMAH June Krevor
In memory of Stephen Bodzin. JACK MOLINE LECTURE SERIES
Mickey & Allan Lazarus In memory of Joan Berman, Jack Berman's mother.
CAPITAL CAMPAIGN Janet Barnett
In honor of Philip Lurie reading Torah & chanting haftorah. In memory of Stephen Bodzin.
Patricia Franklin Janet Barnett
In honor of the Ritual Committee. In honor of Jack Moline. In appreciation for the Rabbi Jack
Patricia Franklin Moline Lecture Series.
In memory of Victor Tynes, Sr., Victor Tynes' Father. Andrew & Barbara Effron
Karen & Elliot Parkin In honor of Jack Moline for his generous participation in our
COMMUNITY CARING family's special simcha.
With sympathy to Cheryl Nelson on the passing of her Aunt and Cousin. Richard & Beth-ann Kirby
Mickey & Allan Lazarus Mazel Tov to Ann & Jack Moline on the engagement of their
In memory of Marilyn Otterness. son, Max to Jenny Orel.
Dale & Linda Otterness Joan Hartman Moore
In appreciation of Lynne Sandler. Anita Turk
Victor & Judy Tynes In memory of Maurice Wolf, my beloved husband.
ENDOWMENT FUND
Yolanda Wolf
In memory of Benjamin Frommer. KOL NIDRE PLEDGE 5779
Elizabeth & Paul Frommer Uri Arkin
In memory of Victor Tynes, Sr. Jeffrey Berkowitz
Elizabeth & Paul Frommer Jack Berson
Claudia Swain Fred Blum
In memory of Arnold Moore. Bernard Engel
Charles & Ellen Wayne David Frenkel
HAZZAN'S DISCRETIONARY FUND
Paul Frommer
In Mmmory of Stephen Bodzin. Deepest sympathy to Tanya Bodzin Philip Garon
and family on the loss of Steve. Levi Goldfarb
Sheila Bicoff Leonard Guedalia
Deepest sympathy to Elisheva Dienstfrey on the loss of Betty Jean Linver. Hugh Halpern
Sheila Bicoff
In memory of Esther Molly Bondareff. (Continued on page 10.)
Erwin Bondareff
NOVEMBER 2018 PAGE 9
IN THE FAMILY MUSIC FUND
(Continued from page 9.) In Memory of Helen Singer.
KOL NIDRE PLEDGE 5779 Sonya Singer Livingston
Robert Lipnick In Memory of Ruth Maline.
Rafael Lopez Alan & Mindi Maline
Renee Luebke In Memory of Minnie Miller Yartzheit of my beloved Mother.
Philip Lurie Victor & Judy Tynes
Alan Mankofsky In Honor of Meryl & Joel Goldhammer.
Alan Marcus Victor & Judy Tynes
Kenneth Matzkin PRAYERBOOKS
Steven Rein In Memory of Yehuda Arkin.
Sheldon Richman Michele Arkin & Jack Rosenthal
James Robbins In Memory of Judith Kornfein Arkin.
Jonathan Saiger Michele Arkin & Jack Rosenthal
Irwin Schneider In Memory of Milton Israel.
Robert Segan Robert Diamond & Amy Pullman
Marc Wilson In Memory of Dorothy Levine.
Alan Zucker Marilyn Levine
In Appreciation of Chaya Silver for her kindness on Yom Kippur. In Memory of Phil Weinkrantz My Uncle.
Bonnie Carroll Marilyn Levine
MUSIC FUND PRESCHOOL DONATION
In memory of Stephen Bodzin. In memory of Elliott Goldberg, our father and Zaydee.
Neale & Donna Ainsfield Bruce & Marcia Brown
Brenda Neuss In memory of Ray C. Shapiro.
Estelle Posen Robert & Maureen Shapiro
Lawrence & Deanna Shuman RABBI'S DISCRETIONARY FUND
In memory of Victor Tynes, Sr., father of Victor Tynes, Jr. In appreciation of Steven Rein for his help when Lester's brother
Barbara Cline passed away.
Michael Dratch Joan & Lester Edelman
Edward & Rhonda Friedler In memory of Arnold Moore.
Arnold & Ellen Levin Andrew & Barbara Effron
Marilyn Levine In memory of Leo Esbin.
Michael Schwartz Barbara Esbin
Gwen Stokols In memory of Florence Esbin.
Charles & Ellen Wayne Barbara Esbin
In loving memory of Dr. Victor H. Tynes, father of Vic and father- On occasion of the bris of David & Shaina's Son, Jeremiah.
in-law of Judy, our dear friends. David & Shaina Goldberg
Nancy Fisher In honor of Steven Rein for his generous participation in our
In memory of Dorothy Landman. family's special Simcha.
Bruce & Cheryl Goldhirsch Richard & Beth-Ann Kirby
In memory of Sheldon Kaplan. In memory of Stephen Bodzin and his many good works.
Marty & Norman Hallowell Howard & Sherri Kohr
In memory of Betty Jean Linver, Elisheva's Grandmother. For all your help with making the High Holy Days so smooth:
Neale & Donna Ainsfield Andi Bregston, Jerry Friedman, Nancy Hailpern, Arnold
Stanley & Rita Blacker Konheim, Phil Lurie, Don Sandler, Mike Scheinber and Julia
Suzanne Brooks Pitkin-Shantz.
Gloria Canter Howard & Sherri Kohr
Justin & Deborah Dunie In Memory of Victor Tynes, Sr. Victor Tynes' father
Edward & Rhonda Friedler Howard & Sherri Kohr
Joan Hartman Moore In Memory of Samuel Gerstein
Leib Kaminsky Dale & Linda Otterness
Howard & Sherri Kohr In Memory of Gerald Rose
Arnold & Ellen Levin Shirley Rose
Sonya Singer Livingston In honor of the birth of Silas James Davis, grandson of Miriam
Robert Levine & Robin Miller and Jeffrey Berkowitz, and the great-grandson of Lynne and Don
Robert & Maureen Shapiro Sandler.
Gwen Stokols Gwen Stokols
Charles & Ellen Wayne In honor of the birth of Yoni Elmalem and Sarah Manthey's daughter.
In memory of Betty Jean Linver, mother of Michael Linver, Gwen Stokols
grandmother of Elisheva Dienstfrey, great-grandmother of
Margalit, Akiva, Hadassah and Lev. (Continued on page 12.)
Victor & Judy Tynes

AGUDAS ACHIM CONGREGATION PAGE 10

 ProfilesofOurLEADERS
Harveystoler by Carol Backman
Born in Borough Park, New vision, Harvey offered programs of interest to younger
York, a very Jewish neighbor- men. These included local “happy hours,” a session on
hood in Brooklyn, Harvey grew avoiding school bullying and sukkah raisings.
up in a Conservative home in After leaving the Men’s Club presidency, Harvey did
Rochester, where his mother not rest on his laurels. He helps the Sisterhood by working
kept a kosher home. Harvey in the kitchen during the Seniors’ luncheon programs and
was close to his grandparents is instrumental in putting together the annual
who he knew as “Bubbe” and congregational barbecue. He is a member of the AAC
“Zayde.” His grandfather dav- Chevrah Kadesha and has served as a board member on the
ened twice daily in a beautiful Funeral Practices Committee of Metropolitan Washington
voice and served as a lay cantor for approximately 12 years. This committee encourages
at his synagogue when needed. Jews to follow funeral practices in accordance with
“Being close to my grandparents influenced me to have a religious tradition and establishes contracts with area
strong, Jewish identity,” says Harvey. He had a Bar Mitzvah at funeral homes to provide Jewish funerals at reasonable
the Conservative synagogue where his parents belonged, but he prices.
regrets that he didn’t attend the Hebrew high school in Harvey has led Shabbat Mussaf services when asked
Rochester where he could have grown more proficient in He- by Hazzan Dienstfrey to help out. He is a regular attendee
brew. Instead, during his high school years, Harvey participat- of morning and evening minyans, and he encourages other
ed in NFTY, the Reform movement’s youth organization. congregants to pick a few days a month to attend minyans
Harvey attended the state university in Albany in and help others who need to say Kaddish.
preparation to become a history teacher. Upon graduating he Since retiring seven years ago, Harvey lives four to
entered the U.S. Army Reserve. During his training he would five months of the year in Delray Beach, Florida where he
attend services at the Jewish Chapel. “It was a great way to get
has joined Shaarei Kodesh, a Conservative congregation in
away from the screaming drill sergeants and spend more time Boca Raton. “I feel like I haven’t left the AAC family
with other Jewish trainees,” he remembers. “After services we when I am there, because their rabbi was a classmate and
would have a touch of home when we were served bagels, friend of our Rabbi Rein at JTS. Their hazzan was a
cream cheese and lox during Kiddush,” Harvey adds. classmate and buddy of Matt Klein, son of our
After training in Fort Jackson, South Carolina and Fort congregants, Barbara Elkin and Paul Klein. The Jewish
Gordon, Georgia, he returned to reserve status and became a world is a small world,” observes Harvey.
history teacher in Norfolk, Virginia for three years where he Harvey likes to explore the world by traveling to
attended the local Orthodox synagogue. Harvey served in the interesting places and places of Jewish interest. He has
U.S. Army Reserves mostly as a Military Personnel Sergeant traveled on safari to Tanzania, Africa, which was one of
for 22 years and retired as a Sergeant First Class. the most fascinating experiences he ever had. He also went
Not satisfied with his teaching job, Harvey moved to the to Peru on a trip sponsored by the Federation of Jewish
D.C. area where he started a 32-year career in Human Men’s Clubs. Many of their descendants converted to
Resources with the federal government following five years in Judaism when they discovered their Jewish roots and
the private sector. “My specialties were staffing and position established a Conservative synagogue. “We had a lovely
classification,” he explains. Shabbat with them and donated Hebrew/Spanish prayer
When his mother died in 2003, Harvey was looking for a books to their synagogue.
place to say Kaddish. He knew that Agudas Achim had daily Harvey has been to Israel twice. The second time
minyans and started attending services. “The people at Agudas included a trip to Jordan, where he was able to explore
Achim were so friendly and welcoming that I decided to Petra. “It’s one of the most fascinating places I have ever
become a member.” Harvey notes. been, and I especially loved the food there,” Harvey
Not only did he join the congregation, but he became a very remembers. He has additionally traveled to Alaska,
active member. He was president of the Men’s Club from 2008 Australia, Denmark, Iceland, New Zealand, Rome and
to 2012, receiving the coveted Blue Yarmulka Award as Sicily.
testimony to his service. As president of the Men’s Club,
(Continued on page 14.)
Harvey also served on the AAC Executive Board. As part of his

NOVEMBER 2018 P AGE 11

 (Continued from page 10.) SYNAGOGUE FUND
In memory of Sheldon Saferstein, brother of Sharon Saferstein.
RABBI'S DISCRETIONARY FUND Nancy Siegal
In memory of Stephen Bodzin, husband of Tanya Bodzin, and father Victor & Judy Tynes
of Samantha Siegman. In appreciation of the kindness of the AAC staff.
Gwen Stokols Victor& Judy Tynes
In memory of David Fine, uncle of Nancy Hailpern. TURK MUSIC ENDOWMENT FUND
Gwen Stokols In memory of Joan Berman.
In memory of Isidor Turk, and prayers at family graves at AAC Edward & Rhonda Friedler
Cemetery Service. In loving memory of Evelyn Levine on her Yarhzeit.
Anita Turk Mickey & Allan Lazarus
In appreciation of the caring assistance of Rabbi Steven Rein. In memory of Victor Tynes, Sr.
Victor & Judy Tynes Joan Hartman Moore
In memory of Sara Warshawsky.
Jay Warshawsky
SAM & ANITA TURK FUND SISTERHOOD’S JUDAICA SHOP
In memory of Stephen Bodzin with deepest sympathy. Open on the Sundays Religious School meets from
Anita Turk 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon and by appointment.
SEFER TORAH FUND
In Memory of Joan Berman, Jack Berman's mother. Shop with us and help support lots
Mickey & Allan Lazarus of local worthy causes.
SYNAGOGUE FUND Check out our new merchandise and remember
In memory of Margo & Monroe Lange. we can do special orders on items as requested.
Jack & Elinor Abraham
In memory of Victor Tynes, Sr. We are your source for B’Nai Mitzvah needs
Michael Ambrose as well as gift suggestions.
In memory of Rachael Kaflowitz, Andrea Flax's cousin.
Sonya Singer Livingston Chairs: Michelle (202-288-9856)
Lynn Lovett Susan (703-489-5068)

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DECEMBER 1, 2018
*Bashe Fagelson
*Bessie Fagelson
*Victoria Landau
Esther Ludwig
*Mary Lee Edelstein
DECEMBER 2, 2018
Mary Meritz
Anna Shapiro
Meyer Shapiro
Sam Shapiro
Flora Leyens Switzer
*Albert Rubin
*David Tauber
Maurice Wolf
DECEMBER 3, 2018
Sylvia Schwartz Ashkenas
Anna Gerner
*Samuel Jurin
*Soloman Rossio
DECEMBER 4, 2018
Seymour Goldhammer
Rabbi Israel Meyer Levitan
*Ruth Rickard
David Spector
DECEMBER 5, 2018
*Felix Lieberman
Nathan Newberger
Helen Quint
Stanley Weingast
*Hyman Zalkind
DECEMBER 6, 2018
Fred Bergen
Louise Chapman
Lena Kaback
Morris Labowitz
*Cecelia Sheinoff
Myer Simon Tulkoff
Ethel Zenn
DECEMBER 7, 2018
Rebecca Axelrad
Roslyn Meyers
Frances Myerson
Daniel Sprecher
Harry A. Tropp
Dorothy Wiener
DECEMBER 8, 2018
Esther Heitin
Bernice Morse
David Sattler
Samuel Wagner
DECEMBER 9, 2018
Morris Friedman
Arthur John Iller
*Reva Kramer
Joseph Langbart
Linda Morse
*William Narden
Gail Newman
Robert Potash
DECEMBER 10, 2018
*Milton Alexander
*Frieda Friedson
* A memorial light will be lit in the synagogue for those names marked with an asterisk.
NOVEMBER 2018
IN MEMORIAM
KISLEV 23, 5779 DECEMBER 10, 2018 TEVETH 2, 5779 DECEMBER 18, 2018 TEVETH 10, 5779
Mark Goldman Ramon Ruiz
*Rae Levy *Simcha Perlmutter
Laurence Pitkin Morris Kesner
DECEMBER 11, 2018 TEVETH 3, 5779 Hyman Weinstein
*Miriam Friedman DECEMBER 19, 2018 TEVETH 11, 5779
KISLEV 24, 5779 *Edward Goldberg Florence Barnett
*Eleanor Schwartz Pearl Max Haber
*Bella Schwarzber Edward Meritz
*Hyman Stokols *Nosan Rubin
DECEMBER 12, 2018 TEVETH 4, 5779 Jacqueline Russler
*Richard Hodges Sue Berlowe
*Braine Hoffman DECEMBER 20, 2018 TEVETH 12, 5779
*Jacob Homes *Bernard J Lowell
DECEMBER 13, 2018 TEVETH 5, 5779 Albert Leito Mourad
KISLEV 25, 5779 *Roselyn L. Arons Karyn Poole
Raymond Beans Jack Stoler
*Minnie Beekman DECEMBER 21, 2018 TEVETH 13, 5779
*Frank Elster *Delphine Landau
*Abraham Goldberg Marie Reif
KISLEV 26, 5779 *Basil Greene Kate Schneider
Doris Holtzman Adam Sher
*Gertrude Kushner DECEMBER 22, 2018 TEVETH 14, 5779
Louis Levy Anna Alster
Blanche Melman *Bessie Cohen
KISLEV 27, 5779 *Evelyn Rosen Rose Marie Fiedler
Beatrice Sadowsky Mollie Rose
*Rose Hayman DECEMBER 23, 2018 TEVETH 15, 5779
DECEMBER 14, 2018 TEVETH 6, 5779 *Henrietta Fink Shantz Levine
*Ruth Adler *Anna Sklarewitz
Sorita Barder Harry Vavithes
KISLEV 28, 5779 Esther Shalloway Bohrman DECEMBER 24, 2018 TEVETH 16, 5779
*Haskell David Cohen *Mordechai Max Arkin
*Leonard Roberts Eti Lieberman
Arthur Rose *Harry Sandler
Anna Wengrovitz
DECEMBER 25, 2018 TEVETH 17, 5779
*Shirley Woolf
*Samuel Kaufman Sara Anglister
*William H. Davis
DECEMBER 15, 2018 TEVETH 7, 5779
Morris Dinerstein
KISLEV 29, 5779 *Mortimer Cohen Rena Franklin
*Milton Frank *Bernard S. Lehman
Florence Gaffen Joseph Lichtman
*Samuel R. Kaufman Evelina Moulder
Michael Kornfein Sidney Ratner
Rose Terner Adrienne Warshawsky
Charles Nauert Helen Weintrob
KISLEV 30, 5779 DECEMBER 16, 2018 TEVETH 8, 5779
DECEMBER 26, 2018 TEVETH 18, 5779
Hyman Glasser Ayala Dvoretsky
Harry Greenberg Selma Issner
*Merlin Kutchinsky Solomon Ludwig
*Allen Sorens *Solomon Rosen
TEVETH 1, 5779 *Minnie Stein *Ida Valenstein
*Julius Stone
DECEMBER 27, 2018 TEVETH 19, 5779
DECEMBER 17, 2018 TEVETH 9, 5779
*Ellen Fagen
Ben Fagen *Avraham Lieb Hoffman
Louis Keller Abraham Miller
DECEMBER 18, 2018 TEVETH 10, 5779 *Jerome Rosenstock
Clair Berger Begun *Helen Rubin
Seth Fingerman DECEMBER 28, 2018 TEVETH 20, 5779
*Janie Cohen Kleiman Bessie Eisenberg Davis
TEVETH 2, 5779 *Ben Zion ben Tzvi Mendelson *Joseph Lainoff
Anna Newman Taylor Lazarus
Murray Rosen (Continued on page 14.)
P AGE 13
 SISTERHOOD DOINGS IN MEMORIAM
BY JUDITH FOGEL, PROGRAMMING VICE PRESIDENT
(Continued from page 13.)
FALL RETROSPECTIVE DECEMBER 28, 2018 TEVETH 20, 5779
Aaron H. Meller
Supper in the Sukkah William J. Mulligan
Sisterhood also acknowledges Hazzan Sidney Rabinowitz’ beautiful rendition DECEMBER 29, 2018 TEVETH 21, 5779
of Birchat HaMazon to close out the dinner event. Thank you to all our honorees Thelma Cohen
that evening. Nancy Drembus
*Frederick Kutchinsky
Sisterhood Soiree Max Levin
Orange, red and yellow leaves adorned the tables to celebrate autumn and an- DECEMBER 30, 2018 TEVETH 22, 5779
other year of Sisterhood fellowship. About fifty women gathered in the Lainof *Allan Kamerow
Auiditorim on October 21 for a festive evening of good food and good conversation *Ruth E. Stier
as we said thank you to all our paid up members. Seaboard Region Women’s DECEMBER 31, 2018 TEVETH 23, 5779
League President Cathy Litofsky battled Baltimore traffic to conduct Installation of *Harry Bonnett
*Malka Chester
officers, bid farewell to the outgoing board and deliver the keynote address. Sister- *Bas Shevah Rubin
hood Ensemble graced us with a four-song repertoire, led by the ever talented Haz- *Jeanne Weinberg
zan Elisheva Dienstfrey.
Yasher Koach to Stacy Zuckerman, Sisterhood Membership VP who chaired KNITTING CLUB
the event. Thank you also to our hard working volunteers who bought decorations, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16
produced flyers and promotional copy, chopped and sliced in the kitchen, decorated 12:00 NOON
the tables, checked in attendees, ran the raffle, snapped photos and cleaned up: Rob- AAC LOBBY
in Braverman, Susan Auerhan, Lynne Rosenblum, Gary Zuckerman, Allen For-
man, Lenore Garon, Sharon Saferstein, Diana Weil, Joan Arsenault, Elizabeth
Margosches and Sara Krumbein. Several other women also pitched in to break
down the social hall.
Morning With the Mayor (Elect)
Two days before Justin Wilson became the Mayor-Elect of Alexandria, he took SUPPORT GROUP FOR INDIVIDUALS
time out of his busy schedule to address Sisterhood. Over coffee, lox and rugelach, WITH DEPRESSION
the soon-to-be mayor discussed critical issues affecting our city and his vision and The Jewish Social Service Agency
plans for the new administration. Sisterhood took time out to recognize the mayor, (JSSA) will be holding a support group
vice mayor and Alexandria Police Chief Michael Brown for their added security for those with depression on the first
and patrols following the horrific attack on a Pittsburgh synagogue a week before Wednesday of each month at AAC.
our event.
For details contact Erica Jacobs at the
At this brunch, Sisterhood also honored Cheryl Nelson for her 30 years of ex- synagogue office, 703-998-6460 or
ceptional service in the kitchen and presented her with a special gift to show our ejacobs@agudasachim-va.org.
appreciation, a Torah Fund pin. The award was presented by Lynne Sandler.
Many thanks to the Kitchen Crew who arrived extra early to produce a delecta-
ble and eye catching brunch buffet: Lynne Rosenblum, Susan Auerhan, Robin
PROFILES OF OUR LEADERS
Braverman, Stay Zuckerman and Ken Notis. Thanks also to Marcia Lawson for
kitchen clean up and Robin Braverman for formatting the flyer.
(Continued from page 11.)
Great Challah Bake
Several Sisterhood members joined this community wide sold out event at the With such a busy lifestyle, Harvey
Northern Virginia JCC on October 25. AAC Sisterhood was a co-sponsor. Thank finds time to enjoy theater and the
you to Membership VP Stacy Zuckerman for spearheading our participation. symphony with subscriptions to both as
well as hiking with friends. When he
STAY IN TOUCH goes to Maryland to do his kosher
Want to know the latest Sisterhood happenings? Send an email to Jodi Wittlin at shopping, he will call and ask a few
jlwittlin@yahoo.com to be included in Sisterhood’s TinyLetter. And don’t miss senior friends to see if they would like
Sisterhood’s Facebook updates. We can be found at Agudas Achim Sisterhood of VA. to come along.
“I feel Agudas Achim is my family.
DECEMBER EVENT They are always there for me in good
See information on the front page about our December brunch co-sponsored with the and bad times. People who said
Social Action Committee including collection coats and blankets for Syrian refugees. Kaddish with me are still my friends
today,” says Harvey.
AGUDAS ACHIM CONGREGATION PAGE 14
 Enjoy the Carefree Lifestyle You Deserve! RABBI MICHAEL HENESCH
Celebrating
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 WHAT’S INSIDE . . .
Agudas Achim Congregation DECEMBER BRUNCH........................page 1
2908 Valley Drive RABBI’S MESSAGE...........................page 2
Alexandria, VA 22302 SCHEDULE OF SERVICES..................page 2
Phone: 703-998-6460 Fax: 703-998-5843 PRESIDENTS’S MESSAGE.................page 3
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE...page 3
The Bulletin is published monthly - ISSN1084-9858 AAC ACTIVE SENIORS LUNCH.........page 3
Rabbi ...….................................................................….………Steven I. Rein CHRISTMAS DINNER.........................page 3
Hazzan..........................................................................Elisheva R. Dienstfrey EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE...page 4
Rabbi Emeritus...............................................................................Jack Moline INCLUSION FOR OUR CHILDREN........page 4
Executive Director.....................................................................….Barry Nove DEAR HAZZAN.................................page 5
Youth/Education Director...........….……….................................Chaya Silver MEN’S CLUB MENSCHENING.............page 5
Preschool Director……............................................................….Jen Halpern PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSES.............page 5
Shlicha.………………………………………………………Miri Bernovsky PRESCHOOL NEWS..........................page 6
President……..……………………………………………Kenneth Labowitz YOUNG FAMILIES.............................page 6
Sisterhood Co-Presidents..............................Lenore Garon and Susan Auerhan BRINGING ISRAEL TO AGUDAS.........page 7
Men’s Club President..........................…..………………………Elliot Parkin MAH KOREH - EDUCATION...............page 8
Communication Specialist.....………………….………………Marya Runkle SHLICHA PROGRAMMING..................page 8
IN THE FAMILY.................................page 9
Email: synagogue@agudasachim-va.org Twitter: @agudasachim
Web: www.agudasachim-va.org Facebook: facebook.com/agudasachim PROFILES OF OUR LEADERS...........page 11
SISTERHOOD JUDAICA SHOP..........page 12
IN MEMORIAM................................page 13
WHAT’S AHEAD . . . SISTERHOOD DOINGS.....................page 14
DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP......page 14
Thursdays, 7:00 p.m......................................Introduction to Judaism Class
Fridays, 9:00 a.m...........................................................Talmud Study Class
Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. ....................................................Parashat Ha’Shavua
Saturdays, 11:00 a.m.................................................................Gan Shabbat

THE MONTH AT-A-GLANCE

Sunday, December 2.................Young Families Hanukkah Candlelighting

Sunday, December 9.....................Brunch with Sisterhood Salaam Shalom
Tuesday, December 11..............................................Preschool Open House
Wednesday, December 12.........................................Preschool Open House
Sunday, December 16...............................................................Knitting Club
Tuesday, December 20..............................Active Seniors Lunch and Learn
Friday, December 21..........................................Shababy Kabbalat Shabbat

Time Value
Alexandria, VA
Permit No. 263 Address Service Requested
PAID
U.S. Postage Alexandria, VA 22302
Non-Profit Org. 2908 Valley Drive
Agudas Achim Congregation