ITON TZIYON

The Newsletter of Mount Zion Temple

September/October 2015

Elul/Tishrei/Cheshvan5775-5776

Vol. 160, No. 1

iuhm iuTg¦¦¦ ¦

The Faces of MussarWith a core Mussar* teaching that touched their hearts.

Panim el Panim

"Mussar is about making the heart feelwhat the intellect understands.”

– Rabbi Eliyahu Lopian

“Beloved is the human created in the image of God.”

– Rabbi Akiva

“Each of us is a holy soul.”-Alan Morinis

The soul trait of “trust” actually… means “trust in God”.

– Alan Morinis

Batya Spector Dan Rybeck

Jon Strauss Sarah Schaleger

*Mussar is Hebrew for “instruction”. It is a treasury of Jewish teachings and practices thathave evolved over the past thousand years. Itspurpose is to help us live more intentionally, bothethically and spiritually.

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L’DOR VADORFROM GENERATION TO GENERATION

MAZEL TOV TO...Our members who will celebrate a milestone anniversary in September/October: Tony & LauraMogelson, David & Karlene Baum, Steve Swenson& Suzy Frisch, Euan & Jane Kerr, Charlie Nauen& P.J. Pofahl, Les & Karen Suzukamo, LindsayNauen & Richard Weil, Clifford & Andrea Berg,Charlie Levine & Marjorie Dana-Levine, Scott &Michele Bordo, Gregg Weber & Marjie Messnick-Weber, Roger & Jennifer Kramer.

LETTER FROM THE RABBI

ZICHRONAM LIVRACHA...May their memories be a blessing

We note with sorrow the passing of our member:Helen Corwin

Our condolences to her family.

WE EXTEND CONDOLENCES TO...Richard Soule (Deborah Fineman) on the death ofhis mother, Virginia Soule, on August 11.

May God grant peace to all who mourn and comfortto all who are bereaved.

WELCOME...B’RUCHIM HA’BAIM... TO OUR NEW MEMBERS!

Abbey and Deirdre Kanzer, and their children Nadav and Matan

Scott Kaplan and Nancy Schwartz, and their daughter, Stephanie

Bruce and Annie Matza

Taking Torah on the RoadDo you remember holding a Torah scroll? Its sudden weight in yourarms and soul, the joy of connecting through the generations to Sinaiin an instant. When was that moment? Was it being called to the Torahfor the first time as Bat or Bar Mitzvah, accepting a Shabbat or HighHoly Day honor, or passing the scroll to a child or grandchild? In al-

most all of these memories, likely that the place of that moment is in the sanctuary.

The contrast between holding a Torah in synagogue and holding a Torah anywhere elsebut a synagogue is what struck me the most when I held the Torah scroll on Friday, Au-gust 7. Along with twenty others, I was on Route US-29 walking for nineteen miles withthe NAACP’s America’s Journey for Justice from Opelika, Alabama to West Point, Geor-gia, flanked by six Alabama State Police. The Torah had come down the mountain. I heldthe Torah tight, embracing its teachings, its symbolic presence, my personal memories ofholding Torah when I was ordained a rabbi and when I handed the scroll to my son andthen daughter as they became Bar and Bat Mitzvah, and my vision of the iconic photoin Arlington National Cemetery of the Torah in the arms of Rabbi Maurice Eisendrath,President of then-Union of American Hebrew Congregations, now the Union for Re-form Judaism, as he marched next to the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King.

The Torah in my arms came from Chicago Sinai Congregation because of the leadershipof Rabbi Seth Limmer, who invited his congregation to lend a Torah scroll to make theentire 860 mile journey over forty days from Selma, AL to Washington, D.C. A water-proof backpack with Torah messages written on it and a banner from the Religious Ac-tion Center was at the ready if there was any threat of rain. Over 150 rabbis havevolunteered escort the scroll, taking daily shifts during the entire journey.

Mirroring the forty days Moses stood on Sinai receiving the message of Torah, we willmarch about forty days bringing the values, teachings and relevance of Torah to the streetsof America. On Friday, August 7, I was joined by Rabbi Peter Stein, from Rochester, NY.Several other fellow marchers enjoyed taking the scroll for a mile or so. Many were notJewish but felt - as they called it - the inspiration of carrying God’s word.

For those watching us march, on their porches, in stopped cars, once in a while lining theroads, there were only two visible symbols: the American flag and the Torah scroll. Thatwas all: six police cars, about 20 marchers, and two symbols. What could they be think-ing? News reports prepared the remote townships about the march. We would sing oursongs and shout our chants for justice. Still our march took many by surprise. I am surethat this was the first Torah scroll many had ever seen. I wanted to stop to explain, butwe had our marching orders. We did not stop from 8 am to 4 pm that day; the Torah didnot rest; our message was on the move. For those who knew even a little, the symbol ofthe Torah demanded a response: we have Jewish values that are synonymous with Chris-tian values and Muslim values and many other peoples’ values and most importantly withAmerican values: we cannot stand idly by when our neighbors are in need.

W.E.B. Du Bois said, "The battle we wage is not for ourselves alone but for all true Amer-icans." Over those many miles, my feet though weary felt lightened by the embrace ofTorah. Etz Chayim Hi – The Torah truly is a Tree of Life, and all who hold it tight willfind happiness (Prov. 3:18). I will never hold the Torah scroll the same way.

Adam Stock Spilker, Rabbi

New Children’s Book Carts in the Sanctuary!

The Mount Zion Inclusion & Accessibility Task Force alongwith Parents and Tots has set up achildren’s book cart in the sanctu-ary. Children attending worshipservices can borrow a book or twoto read in the sanctuary. Thebooks are located in the back ofthe sanctuary on the right side.

Most books are geared toward young and school-agedchildren, but there are a few for older kids as well. Wehope these books will be loved and enjoyed!

The Faces of MussarOn the Cover: This year the Bulletin covers will featureMount Zion members who have taken our Mussar classes.If you are interested in trying out Mussar, please see ournew offerings at www.mzion.org under Adult Education.

If you’ve joined Mount Zion since January 2014, join us for the

New Member Shabbat DinnerFriday, October 23, 6:00 p.m.

We’re glad you have become part of the Mount Zion family.Please join our clergy and congregational leaders for Shabbat din-ner. We’ll get to know each other, share some great food, andbuild our community! Please RSVP at mzion.nirsham.com.

Questions? Contact Betsy Rest at elberest@gmail.com by Friday, October 16.

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MAKE SHABBAT YOUR SANCTUARY

Schedule Every Shabbat Day9:00 a.m. Open Torah Study - Drop in any time to study the week’sTorah portion (listed above). *Using a triennial [3 year] cycle, we arereading the second third of each parashah this year. **Beginning theweek of 10/10, using a triennial [3 year] cycle, we are reading the third third of each parashah this year.

10:00 a.m. Shabbat Morning Service

FRIDAY SHABBATEVENING SERVICES

SATURDAY SHABBATMORNING SERVICES

October 2, 6:30 p.m.Shir Tzion Participates

Installation of Sue Summit,Religious School Director

Soul Food Friday, 7:15 p.m. (p. 18)

October 9, 7:30 p.m.Professional Choir

Food for Thought (p. 15)

October 16, 7:30 p.m.Birthday Blessings

October 23, 7:30 p.m.New Member Shabbat Dinner (p. 2)Pulpit Guest: Michael Carasik (p. 14)

October 30, 7:30 p.m.Shabbat for the Soul (Johnson Social Hall)

Mussar for Thought (p. 5)

October 3, 10:00 a.m.Chol Hamoed SukkotEx. 33:12-34:34:26*

Jennifer Ries, Bat Mitzvah

October 10, 10:00 a.m.Ekev – Deut. 9:4-10:11**

Madeline Swenson, Bat Mitzvah

October 17, 10:00 a.m.Noah - Gen 11:1-11:32**

Celebrate Shabbat!

October 24, 10:00 a.m.L’ch Lecha - Gen. 16:1-17:27**

Levi Mellin, Bar Mitzvah

October 31, 10:00 a.m.Vayera - Gen. 21:1-22:24** Isaac Fein, Bar Mitzvah

OCTOBERTot Shabbat

Tot Shabbat is the second Saturday of every month.For families with children from birth to seven years old.

This year, we will be learning about the “middah (value) of themonth.” Each Tot Shabbat we will focus on a middah that relates

to the holiday or parasha (weekly Torah portion).

Prepare for the High Holy Days (Forgiveness)Saturday, September 12, 10:30 a.m.

B’reishit/Creation (Quiet)Saturday, October 10 at 10:30 a.m.

Please bring a healthy, nut-free vegetarian dish to share.

FRIDAY SHABBATEVENING SERVICES

SATURDAY SHABBATMORNING SERVICES

September 4, 6:30 p.m.Shir Tzion Participates

Soul Food Friday, 7:15 p.m. (see p. 18)

September 11, 7:30 p.m.Professional Choir

September 18, 7:30 p.m.Shabbat for the Soul (Johnson Social Hall)

Mussar for Thought (p. 5)

Birthday Blessings

September 25, 7:30 p.m.Celebrate Shabbat!

September 5, 10:00 a.m.Ki Tavo – Deut 26:12:28-6*

Celebrate Shabbat!

September 12, 10:00 a.m.Nitzavim – Deut. 29:9-30:20*

Max & Sadie Wall, B’nei Mitzvah

September 19, 10:00 a.m.Vayelech – Deut. 31:1-30*

Shabbat ShuvahCelebrate Shabbat!

September 26, 10:00 a.m.Haazinu – Deut. 32:1-52*

Andrew & Daniel Ellis, B’nei Mitzvah

SEPTEMBER

Engaging TorahScholar-in-Residence with Michael Carasik,

author of The Commentators’ BibleThursday-Shabbat, Oct 22-24See page 14 for more details.

Installation of Sue Summit, Religious School DirectorDuring Shabbat Services, Friday, October 2, 6:30 p.m.

Sue has been involved in Jewish education for thepast 19 years in a variety of roles including classroomteacher, family educator, curriculum developer, community-wide program facilitator and individualeducation specialist. Her most recent position wasDirector of Education (K-12) at Temple Beth Amin Framingham, MA. Sue received the Grinspoon-Steinhart Awardfor Excellence in Jewish Education in 2009 and her Certificate inJewish Special Education from Hebrew College in 2015. Sue andher husband, Jeff have two daughters, Ariana (24) and Zoe (21).

Daily Service ScheduleDaily services are held in the Harris Chapel, Monday through Thursdayat 5:45 p.m., Sundays at 9:30 a.m.Please note: in observance of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, therewill be no Daily Services on September 14, 22, and 23

SeptemberMondays: Patrick Zimmerman, Arnie Krohn, Sheila SchumanTuesdays: John Mast, Deb Bachrach, Sheri FrisqueWednesdays: Eric Lund, Betsy Rest, Margie AbrahamsonThursdays: Rita Grossman, Victor Vital, Joni BurgSundays: John Mast, Gloria Levin, Anne and Kurt Schaeffer

OctoberMondays: Patrick Zimmerman, Mitch and Sally RubinsteinTuesdays: John Mast, Deb Bachrach, Arnie KrohnWednesdays: Eric Lund, Steve Levin, Lee LitmanThursdays: Rita Grossman, Batya Spector, Henry LippmanSundays: Anne and Kurt Schaeffer, Sally Glick, Ray Sevett, Gloria Levin

If you would like to participate in Leading or Greeting at daily services, contact Janet 651-482-9951 or Charles 651-646-6543.

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High Holy Days Service ScheduleHigh Holy Days Service Schedule- Selichot -

Saturday, September 5 - Elul 21 at Adath JeshurunPlease note: this year Selichot will not be at Mount Zion.Havdalah followed by program (see p.4) 8:30 p.m.Reception 10:00 p.m.Selichot Service with local cantors and choirs 10:30 p.m.

- Erev Rosh Hashanah -Sunday, September 13 - Tishrei 1

Service* 7:30 p.m.

- Rosh Hashanah -Monday, September 14 - Tishrei 1

Early Service (Mount Zion Family Machzor)* 8:30 a.m.Tot Service (Birth-Grade 1) 11:00 a.m.Teen Service (Grades 7-12) 11:45 a.m.Late Service (Gates of Repentance)* 11:45 a.m.Yoga for the New Year (Hidden Falls Park) 3:00 p.m.Tashlich (Hidden Falls Park) 4:30 p.m.

- Shabbat Shuvah -Friday-Saturday, September 18-19 -Tishrei 6

Shabbat Service 7:30 p.m.Shabbat Morning Service 10:00 a.m.Healing Service 4:00 p.m.

Sunday, September 20 - Tishrei 7Memorial Service at Cemetery (rain or shine) 1:00 p.m.

- Erev Yom Kippur - Kol Nidre -Tuesday, September 22 - Tishrei 10

Early Service* 6:00 p.m.Late Service 8:30 p.m.

- Yom Kippur -Wednesday, September 23 - Tishrei 10

Early Service (Mount Zion Family Machzor)* 8:30 a.m.Tot Service (Birth-Grade 1) 11:00 a.m.Study Session 11:45 a.m.Late Service* (Gates of Repentance) 11:45 a.m.Teen Service (Grades 7-12) 11:45 a.m.Study Session 2:30 p.m.Musical Meditation 2:30 p.m.Yizkor* 3:15 p.m.Afternoon Service* (approx) 4:00 p.m.Teen Program (Grades 7-12) 4:00 p.m.Kids’ Program (Grades 2-6) 6:15 p.m.Ne’ilah Service* (approx) 6:15 p.m.Break-the-Fast (Following Havdalah) (approx) 7:15 p.m.

*Broadcast will be on Comcast Cable. Comcast will only confirmthe schedule two weeks in advance. After September 9, you can

access the TV schedule at mzion.org or by calling the Temple office at 651-698-3881.

HIGH HOLY DAYS

Cemetery Memorial ServiceSunday, September 20, 1:00 p.m.

Come rain or shine!As a people, we are eternally linked to thosewho came before us. As individuals, we areespecially mindful of family and friendswho have died in the past year. In the spiritof remembrance, we annually conduct aspecial service at our cemetery. Please joinus for a meaningful and reflective service.The cemetery is located at the intersection of Payne and Larpenteur.

Yoga for the New Year: Return to the Land of Your Soul

Led by Chris Gordon of Big River Yoga and Cantor Spilker

Rosh Hashanah Day Monday, September 14, 3:00 p.m.

Just before Tashlich on the beach at Hidden Falls Park

Selichot A Night that Ushers in the High Holy Days

Saturday, September 58:30 pm Havdalah followed by The inHEIRitance Project: The Abraham Play, with Jon Adam Ross and then audience conversation with Jon

10:00 pm Reception10:30 pm Selichot Service with local cantors and choirs

The entire community is invited for this eveningwhich will be held at Adath

(10500 Hillside Ln W, Minnetonka)If you are interested in carpooling, please contact Julie Beckman,

Mount Zion Clergy Assistant, jbeckman@mzion.org.

Participating Congregations: Adath Jeshurun Congregation, Beth El Syna-gogue, Mayim Rabim Congregation, Mount Zion Temple,

Sharei Chesed, Temple Israel. Temple of Aaron.

Eat. Drink. Shake.CONNECT with fellow MZ members at one of three Sukkot Open Houses!

Sunday evening, September 27Our rabbis and cantors will visit each Sukkah to lead blessings and shake the lulav.

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HIGH HOLY DAYS

Celebrate Simchat Torah (Celebrate Simchat Torah (Shmini Atzeret/Simchat Torah)Shmini Atzeret/Simchat Torah)Sunday, October 4, 6:00 p.m.

Join us as we renew our Torah cycle, reading the end of the Torah and then the beginning with the entire scroll unrolled around Margolis Hall.Dance with the Torah scrolls to the infectious rhythm of Mark Stillman and his Klezmer band!

Shabbat Shuvah – Mussar for ThoughtFriday, September 18

6:15 p.m. The Making of a Mensch13 minute film by the director of “the Tribe” Tiffany Shlain, fol-lowed by discussion led by Rabbi Spilker. The film is based on theteaching of Mussar.

7:30 p.m. Shabbat for the Soul in Johnson Social Hall

A Shabbat service with a different atmosphere, designed to touchour souls in new ways. This service will be led by clergy, profes-sional musicians, and members from our Guitar Corps.

Drinks, snacks, conversation including appetizers from

More information will be distributed at the High Holy Days and by e-mail. If you have other question, contact Cantor Spilker rspilker@mzion.org/ 651-698-3881.

Shabbat for the Soul / Mussar for Thought – We will follow thisschedule: a reflective, meditative session about Mussar before serv-ices and a special Shabbat service either in Johnson Social Hall orMargolis Hall on Friday, October 30 and Friday, December 18.

Locations5:00-7:00 p.m. Dan Rybeck and Kate Searls’ home in Minneapolis5:00-7:00 p.m. Charlie and Margorie Levine’s home in Woodbury5:30-7:30 p.m. Terri and Charles Stander’s home in St. Paul

Avinu Malkeinu is “my” High Holy Day prayer. Ithink every cantor has one—a prayer or musical set-ting that, for them, sums up the totality of the HighHoly Day experience.

Long before the idea of becoming a cantor had crossedmy mind, I was introduced to Max Janowski’s (1912-1991) setting of this prayer by Paul Rusterholz, achoral director in La Crosse. Paul asked me to sing

the cantor’s part, and he would direct the UW-L Women’s Chorus in thechoral sections. I had never heard the piece before, so he gave me a copy ofBarbra Streisand’s famous recording! Needless to say, I was hooked. I had-n’t realized until then that there was music like this in the Jewish world, andit completely changed my impression of Jewish music.

I was delighted to re-encounter Janowski’s setting in 2000 when I first beganserving as a cantorial soloist, and I’ve sung it at every High Holidays since.As a student at HUC-JIR in Jerusalem, I was lucky enough to sing the soloat Yom Kippur services, and was tremendously honored when the record-ing from that service was selected to be part of the National Sound ArchivesCollections of the Jewish National and University Library of Israel. I canonly imagine that this particular piece, which was one of only a few to rep-resent the Israeli Progressive Movement (the Israeli equivalent to the Reformmovement), speaks to others as it does me. In fact, the very text we use is atestament to the popularity of Janowski’s setting. Although shortened andin a different order than the traditional version, the text of Avinu Malkeinuwe have in Gates of Repentance was retained from the earlier Union PrayerBook precisely because people loved the setting so much they wanted tocontinue singing it exactly the way Janowski had composed it.

The text may be the same, and the setting may be the same, but every yearI sing it I am different. At first I was touched by the beautiful harmonies andthe soaring vocal lines. Over time, the power of the words themselves drewme in and now they are what drives the intensity of the prayer for me.

Avinu Malkeinu is literally translated as “Our Father, Our King,” but the Re-form movement has taken pains to see that we are not limited in our think-ing about God in such gendered terms. Rather, we are to see God asencompassing both the transcendence of Malkeinu and the immanence ofAvinu. Our movement’s new machzor, Mishkan Hanefesh, provides the fol-lowing reflection: “By juxtaposing these two metaphors, the prayer conveysa double perception of God: as judging, commanding, and awe-inspiringSovereign (Malkeinu); and as close, loving and compassionate Parent(Avinu).” Depending on where I am in my life, God might be more ap-proachable to me as “Avinu.” Or maybe I need to talk to the Big Macher,and that’s when I call on “Malkeinu.” But in the text, I never have to choose.Each of the supplications, no matter how personal or universal, is addressedto “Avinu Malkeinu.”

I came to Avinu Malkeinu as a singer, thinking about my voice, and in-deed, it begins, “Avinu malkeinu, sh’ma koleinu (hear our voice).” But itconcludes with “aseh imanu tzedakah vachesed v’hoshiyeinu (create with usrighteousness and loving kindness and bring us salvation)”. It is importantthat our voices be heard, but in the end, we are God’s partners, and re-sponsible for creating righteousness and justice, balanced by compassionand kindness, so that we may walk the path towards salvation.

L’shana tova tikateivu!

Jennifer Strauss-Klein, Cantor

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CHAI NOTES

Trope Troupe... the more Torah, the more life. -Hillel

Todah Rabah to our August Ba’alei Korei (chantingTorah): Siana Goodwin, John Mast, Brian Serle, Kent Simon

Todah Rabah to our August Ba’alei Haftarah (chantingHaftarah): Shelley Robbins, Brian Serle, Kent Simon

To sign up to chant Torah or Haftarah on Shabbat, e-mail Cantor Jennifer Strauss-Klein at jstraussklein@mzion.org

Our Bodies, Our Souls19th Annual Jewish Retreat for Women

In the Image: Jewish Women and Art

Friday Evening to Saturday EveningSave the Date: January 22-23

Kinnor L’Yom Kippur: A Violin on Yom KippurWednesday, September 23, (approx) 2:30 p.m.

Join violinist Marc Levine for musical reflection be-tween services. This is an island in time to reflect on thethemes of the day in the peaceful setting of our chapel.

House concert with Yair DalalWorld-renowned oud and violin playerSaturday evening, October 10, 7:00 p.m. Location TBA

Contact Cantor Spilker for more information rspilker@mzion.org

Yoga and Torah for your Body and SoulSundays, October 11, November 8, December 13, 4:00 - 5:30 p.m.at the St. Paul JCC - $15.Co-taught by Cantor Rachel Stock Spilker and Diane Neumark-Sztainer.

Participate in this unique class, in which the prac-tice of yoga deepens our understanding of Torah,and the study of Torah leads to a richer experienceof yoga. We will begin with a few minutes of warm-up yoga poses, then study a short Jewish text, fol-lowed by a full yoga practice, continuallyreconnecting to the Jewish concept we began withand how we can experience it in our bodies. All lev-els of yoga experience are welcome; adjustments will be made to ac-commodate varying physical abilities.

This event is made possible by: Hineni of the Talmud Torah of St Paul

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FROM THE PRESIDENTWriting this near the 1st of Elul, which marks the be-ginning of our 40-day journey to Yom Kippur, itseems appropriate to reflect on the summer eventhough we’re still in the midst of the dog days of Au-gust. For many, summer is a welcome respite fromjam-packed schedules and with divine synchronicity,Temple life seems to slow down a bit as well.

But no matter the season, Shabbat comes every week and our summerservices on the terrace have been magical. Larry Solomon, our intrepidExecutive Director, tries his best to estimate attendance on any given Fri-day but faces new and old kept the Shamash Corps hustling to find seatsfor the crowd each week. My connection to 1967’s legendary Summer ofLove was solely through the medium of AM radio but I will remember2015 as the Summer of Not Enough Folding Chairs!

Like most things that seem effortless, it’s the hard work behind-the-sceneson the part of clergy, staff and scores of lay volunteers that makes our sum-mer programming a success. So I leave you with a short “thank you” list:

First, Mother Nature for providing our spectacular outdoor back-•drop each week. I believe there were only two weeks all summerwhen we had to move services indoors, once due to rain and onceto elude the heat. Cantor Strauss-Klein and Rabbis Spilker and Adler for helping us•explore the beauty and wisdom of the Kabbalat Shabbat psalmsall summer long. Thank you for inspiring us to welcome Shab-bat with kavanah (intention) and for teaching us a few new tunesalong the way.Mavis, Don, and Elias for preparing our Kabbalat Panim gath-•ering space prior to the service and transforming our terrace intoan outdoor sanctuary complete with portable ark and sound sys-tem.Dr. Jerry Brakke, our talented Guitar Corps and “special guest”•percussionists for introducing us to new music every week andfilling the terrace with their warmth and spirit. Finally, our Shamash Corps who direct us through the somewhat•intricate “choreography” of our summer service, seamlessly guid-ing our journey from hors d’oeuvres to the Shabbat table, thenon to the terrace for services and back again for Oneg!

With hope that you’ve had a safe and pleasant summer, I look forward togreeting you during the Days of Awe, 5776. Shanah Tovah!

Dan Rybeck, President

Mount Zion Temple Board of Directors

As we find many ways to strengthen connections at Mount Zion, this column is away to get to know members of Mount Zion’s Board of Directors. Our nominationsprocess for the Board is very open and involves many people. Therefore our Boardis as diverse and representative as can be. We are grateful for all who serve in lead-ership and volunteer their talents for our community. We are blessed that BatyaSpector volunteered to write these vignettes.

Sheri Frisque“I enjoy being part of a Jewish community” isSheri’s reason for the generous volunteer work shedoes as Mount Zion Temple’s Co-Chair of the Sisterhood/Women of Reform Judaism (WRJ)and, in that role, is a Board of Directors member,with special focus on inclusion. She uses her pro-fessional skills and personal experiences in thisservice. Sheri is a Teacher of the Blind/Visually Im-paired and Certified Orientation and Mobility

Specialist for Dakota County ISD 197. She is the primary advocate forher son Joey Scott, born with autism, now 21 who just graduated and isliving independently. Sheri explained she is a ‘doer’, ‘optimist’ and ‘real-ist’ who “jumps in with both feet”. She worked a cash register for MountZion Temple’s July-August garage sale and oversaw all volunteers’ foodand hydration need. In mid-July, she and Peggy Kipp packed up the en-tire Gift shop contents for its renovation. She also secured, at no cost toMount Zion Temple, all the materials visually-impaired students willneed for their success in the 2015-2016 Religious School.

Sheri lives in Maplewood; Joey Scott’s brother Isaac, 22, is studying ac-counting at Century College. Find out more about Sheri at mzion.org inPhil Goldman’s series Humans of Mount Zion Temple, Feb. 26, 2015.

Dave KnappAt board meetings over the past two years and, inparticular, during the recent Strategic Planningprocess, Dave has often provided perspective andto advocate for needs of Religious School families.Dave’s participation embodies several aspects ofhis strong connection to Mount Zion Temple.First, Dave, along with wife Yasmine, is parent toDaniel and Amina who have completed their2014-2015 B’nei Mitzvah journey. Second, he isa long-standing Religious School Committee

member who strives to understand and meet student and parent needs.Third, Dave is in a corporate level R&D and strategic planning role forBoston Scientific Corporation.

Dave helped with one of the action teams preparing the 2014 StrategicPlan, and serves on the Safety Task Force. On the Religious Schoolcommittee he has focused on updating the Holocaust and Yom Hashoaheducation curriculum and is now working with faculty to evaluate theHebrew language curriculum. Dave plays the violin and spends a weekeach summer with the Bennington (VT) Chamber Music Conferenceand serves on its Board. The Knapp/Moideen family lives in Shoreview.Yasmine is a practicing Child and Family Psychologist and Amina andDaniel will enter Chippewa Middle School’s eighth grade this fall.

Mount Zion Congregational Survey to beLaunched during Days of Awe

As part of the strategic plan approved last September, the MountZion Board authorized a biennial survey to elicit feedback from everyadult congregant. The anonymous online survey gives you the op-portunity to let us know what we’re doing well, what can be im-proved, and what “works” for you. Your responses will help the Boardunderstand whether our strategic goals of cultivating congregationalrelationships and participation are being met. You will receive eitheran email invitation to participate or a mailing with the survey if anemail contact is not available. All responses are confidential and willonly be shared in aggregate.

Thank you in advance for sharing your feelings about our sacredcommunity.

Dan Rybeck, President Adam Stock Spilker, Rabbi

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B’NEI MITZVAH

Max is the son of Michael and Jennifer Wall, and

the grandson of Karn and Fred Bartl and Arline andHerbert Wall. Max has an older twin named Sadie.A seventh grader at Farnsworth Aerospace Magnet

School in Saint Paul, Max's favorite subjects are reading and math.He also plays trombone in the school marching and concert bands.His hobbies include reading, building with his gargantuan number ofLEGOs and playing his trombone. Max hopes to be an architectsomeday, a LEGO Master Builder, or both. In honor of his coming ofage, Max will donate a portion of his gift money to Caring For Cats,a no-kill animal shelter and foster network for cats.

Maximillian WallSeptember 12, 2015

Sadie is the daughter of Michael Wall and Jennifer

Wall, and sister to her twin brother Maximillian. Sheis granddaughter to Karn & Fred Bartl and Arline &Herbert Wall. Sadie is in 7th grade at Farnsworth

Aerospace Magnet School. Her favorite subjects are English and Sci-ence, and she enjoys using her school's flight simulators. Her hobbiesinclude theater, reading, and designing T-shirts. Sadie has played AltoSaxophone in her school marching band for 3 years. She participatedin Penumbra Theater’s Summer Institute,and she would like to makea difference in the world as an activist artist. Through the process ofbecoming a Bat Mitzvah, she has learned to be patient with herselfand with others. Sadie will be donating a portion of her gift moneyto- and volunteering at- Animal Ark.

Sadie WallSeptember 12, 2015

Andrew is the son of David and Karen Ellis. He is

the grandson of Ron and Betty Ellis and Mel andMaude Shafron. Andrew has an older brother Danieland a younger sister Lily. He is currently in the 8th

grade at St. Paul Academy and Summit School. His favorite subjectsare science and geography. Andrew also enjoys hockey, soccer andbaseball, and has volunteered at Neighborhood House. In honor of hisBar Mitzvah, Andrew will be donating a portion of his gift money toNeighborhood House, an organization that provides education, food,and other needs to immigrants and low income families.

Andrew EllisSeptember 26, 2015

Daniel is the son of David and Karen Ellis. He is

the grandson of Ron and Betty Ellis and Mel andMaude Shafron. He has a younger brother Andrewand a younger sister Lily. Daniel is currently in the

10th grade at St. Paul Academy and Summit School where his favoritesubjects are science and photography. He also enjoys fencing, long-boarding, 3D animation and graphic design. Daniel has been involvedwith volunteering at Neighborhood House. In honor of his Bar Mitz-vah, Daniel will be donating a portion of his gift money to Neigh-borhood House, an organization that provides education, food, andother needs to immigrants and low income families.

Daniel EllisSeptember 26, 2015

Jennifer Ries is the daughter of Dan and Heidi Ries,

and younger sister to Samantha. She is the grand-daughter of Gerald and Verla Nelson, and CherriRies and Stan Millman (of blessed memory). Jen-

nifer will be a 7th grader this fall at St. Paul Academy and SummitSchool. Her favorite subjects are math and French. She plays the vi-olin in her school orchestra. Jenny loves ballet, and has studied forthe past 9 years at Minnesota Dance Theatre. She also loves travel-ing, reading, waterskiing and downhill skiing. Jenny will donate aportion of her gift money to Feed My Starving Children.

Jennifer RiesOctober 3, 2015

Maddie is the daughter of Steve Swenson and Suzy

Frisch, and the big sister of Grace and Evie. Hergrandparents are Janet Frisch, Charles Frisch, andSusan and Duane Swenson, and she is the great-

granddaughter of Marjorie Shark. Maddie attends Scott HighlandsMiddle School in Apple Valley, where she is in 8th grade. Her favoritesubjects are English and playing clarinet in the band. Maddie espe-cially enjoys reading, writing, cooking, and spending time with hersisters. She volunteered at the 360 Communities Food Shelf in Rose-mount for her service project, and she does an annual triathlon toraise money for the Pinky Swear Foundation, which helps supportkids with cancer. In honor of her Bat Mitzvah, Maddie will donate aportion of her gift money to the Pinky Swear Foundation.

Madeline SwensonOctober 10, 2015

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B’NEI MITZVAH

Levi is the son of Alison and Andrew Mellin and

brother of Ben and Ruth Mellin. He is the grandsonof Suzanne and Harold Mellin and Margaret and the

late James Houck. Levi is a 7th grader at Saint Paul Academy. His fa-vorite subjects are science and Chinese. Levi enjoys playing basketballand baseball, cooking, and hanging out with his family and friends. Inhonor of his Bar Mitzvah, Levi plans to volunteer with communitysports teams to teach young kids the basics of baseball and basketball.Levi will be donating a portion of his gift money to organizations in-cluding the American Cancer Society to honor his grandmother andgrandfather and community youth sports leagues. Last summer whileon the Mount Zion Israel trip, Rabbi Spilker showed Levi the actualsite where much of his Torah portion took place. Through becominga Bar Mitzvah, Levi has learned the importance of perseverance, dis-cipline, and hard work.

Levi MellinOctober 24, 2015

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Isaac Fein is the son of Andy Fein and Julie Martin.

Isaac is the grandson of Ed and Evelyn Martin (z"l),Bert Fein (z"l), and Edythe Gordon Fein. Elijah Feinis Isaac's older brother. Isaac is in the 7th grade at

Upper Mississippi Academy. Isaac is an enthusiastic rock climber,mountain biker, runner, and skier. When he's not under a helmet foran adventure sport, Isaac enjoys going to Camp Butwin and OSRUI.For his service project, Isaac worked on building and maintaining themountain bike trails at Lebanon Hills Regional Park with the Min-nesota Off Road Cyclists. Isaac will be donating a portion of his BarMitzvah funds to the Mount Zion camp scholarship fund.

Isaac FeinOctober 31, 2015

An Israel Book Discussion

Between Friendsby Amos Oz

Monday, September 21, 7:00 p.m.

at Mount Zion

Join us for an engaging conversation about Israelilife through its literature. Even if you cannot read the book in advance, you are welcome. Questions? Contact Charles at CSFodor@aol.com or Jonathan at jkeisenthal@comcast.net.

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Join Rabbi Spilker in this Israel ridefrom the Negev to Jerusalem

Contactaspilker@mzion.org

for more info.

Yesher koach to the B’nei Mitzvah Class of 2014-15

In honor of their B’nei Mitzvah, families contributed to a fund in-stead of giving individual gifts to classmates. They raised $2944; halfof this will be saved for them to give as their Confirmation Class giftin 10th grade. The other half will be distributed to the organizationthe students chose last year in 7th grade, Gillette Children’s Hospital($1472). Well done/kol hakavod!

Beyond Brisket and Bagels: What Really Makes Food Jewish?

A Scholar-in-Residence Weekend - November 19-22

Tina Wassermanauthor of bestselling cookbooks, Entrée to Judaism: A Culinary

Exploration of the Jewish Diaspora and Entrée to Judaism for Families-Jewish Cooking and Kitchen Conversations with Children

Thursday, November 19, 6 p.m.Special, exclusive event at Brasserie Zentral Restaurant (Minneapolis) withChef Russell Klein (James Beard nominated owner of Zentral and Tina’snephew). A full, four-course dinner with wine pairings. Chef Klein and Tinawill relate stories about the dishes and share the Jewish history and connec-tions with the food. Look for invitation by mail for pricing and RSVP.

Friday, November 20, 7:30 p.m. During ServicesBeyond Brisket and Bagels: 1492 and its Impact on World Cuisine.After services, the Oneg will include desserts from her talk.

Saturday, November 211 p.m.: What makes food Jewish? The Stories Behind the Recipesand the Recipes Behind the Stories. Presentation and a hands-on activity!3 p.m. (For Teens): A Latke Cook-off.7 p.m.: Getting Reading for the Holidays; Delving into our TraditionA Hands-On Evening of Cooking, Eating, and Camaraderie. Look forinvitation by mail for pricing and RSVP.

Sunday, November 22 Making a Six Braid Challah and Learning its History For all Reli-gious School students and parents. (Part of Bread and Torah Program).

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THANK YOU...FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS

You can leave a legacy that helps Mount Zion Temple fulfill its mission while pro-viding you with many tax benefits. There are many ways to support Mount ZionTemple through planned giving, including a gift in your estate plans, life insurancepolicy, retirement plan, or gifts of case, stocks or bonds in your Will. After provid-ing for your loved ones, please consider one final testament of faith through thischaritable act. If you would like to speak with someone at the Temple about yourgift, contact Executive Director, Larry Solomon at 651-698-3881 orlsolomon@mzion.org. Thank you for considering Mount Zion Temple as part ofyour future legacy!

Co-Sponsor an Oneg ShabbatSponsoring an Oneg Shabbat after Friday eveningservices is a lovely way to honor or remember a lovedone or to celebrate an upcoming simcha. When yousponsor an Oneg Shabbat you help our communityconnect in the way that is part of our Mount Zionculture. For more details contact Larry Solomon atlsolomon@mzion.org or 651-698-3881.

Create a Legacy at Mount Zion: Planned Giving

In yahrzeit memory of:Jack Edelstein

Tom, Randy, Henry & Elisa Edelstein

FINBERG CAMP FUND

In yahrzeit memory of:Barry Kantor

Mayda & Marc Raffe

HARRIS CHAPEL FUND

In yahrzeit memory of:Sidney Barrows

Mary Ann & David Wark

JIM & NANCY HARRISLEADERSHIP FUND

In yahrzeit memory of:Hattie Harris

Natalie & Bud Harris

KULAM FUND

In memory of:Ann Craw

Mavis & Shane GoldsteinMary Ann & David Wark

Cantor Kowitz’s motherMavis & Shane Goldstein

Joel RichmanMavis & Shane Goldstein

JULIE LAZOR FUND

In honor of the 50th weddinganniversary of:Nancy & David Gang

Toba Lazor Sandra & Murry Randell

Toba Lazor Good wishses to:Leanne Lehne

Judy KatzIn yahrzeit memory of:Morton Lazor

Toba LazorHoward Schuman

Martin & Sheila Schuman

MITZVAH FOODSHELFFUND

In memory of:Susan B. Dockman

Mary Lou PeilenIn yahrzeit memory of:Esther Breitman

Rolla BreitmanJean Donsker

Beverly Bunin-Gillman Scott Bunin

Daniel DornPaul & Lisa Dorn and Family

Anne FogelLennie Major

Yehuda FrankelAlexandra Oppenheimer

Gerald D. KatzJudy Katz

Bernice Levy Rose JamesSusan Rose Ward

RABBIS’DISCRETIONARY FUND

In honor of the wedding of:Amy Kampf & Rich Hefferan

Janet Kampf In memory of:Helen Corwin

The Family of Helen CorwinAnn Craw

Sarah & Brad ElkinSusan B. Dockman

Ralph M. BirnbergGary M. BirnbergTodd H. BirnbergMindy B. Jewett

In yahrzeit memory of:Grace H. BirnbergA. Irving Birnberg

Ralph M. BirnbergGary M. BirnbergTodd H. BirnbergMindy B. Jewett

Clarence MaddyLisa & Joe Maddy

Lucille OrlandJudi Orland & Jeff Sims and

FamilyDavid Taran

Lisa & Joe Maddy

CANTORS’DISCRETIONARY FUND

In honor of the wedding of:Amy Kampf & Rich Hefferan

Janet Kampf

MAXINE APPLEBAUMART ENHANCEMENT

FUND

In honor of the birthday of:Lorraine Applebaum

Sally & Jimmy BeloffIn memory of:David Duff

Sally & Jimmy BeloffMother of Baill Family

Sally BeloffMargaret Stone

Barbara Melamed

BLOOM LIBRARY FUND

In yahrzeit memory of:David Levey

Steve Levey

CEMETERY MAINTENANCE &

BEAUTIFICATION FUND

In yahrzeit memory of:Max Kipp

The Kipp FamilyRivka Chayka-Lev

Rafail Lev & FamilyDavid Levey

Steve Levey

EDELSTEIN BIBLICALGARDEN FUND

In honor of your volunteer efforts:Howard Simon

Larry & Margie Solomon

Leo LeveyShirley Levey

Daniel & Susan LeveyMitchell Mazur

Lennie MajorAlbert N. Rose Jr.

Susan Rose WardRose H. Shine

Gail & Steve BrandDonations:Monday Bridge ClubMildred MillerMarilyn Silver

RALINE & BILL PAPEREMERGENCY ASSISTANCE

FUND

In honor of the birth of a grandson:Leigh & Harvey Cohen

Raline PaperDiane & Richard Smookler

Raline PaperIn memory of:Earl Anderson

Raline PaperMartin Capp

Raline PaperBarbara Minsberg

Raline Paper

SISTERHOOD LEADERSHIP FUND

In memory of:Gertrude R. Glass

Judy Katz

TORAH RESTORATIONFUND

In honor of the wedding of:Amy Kampf & Rich Hefferan

Mary Ann & David Wark

TORAH TONES CHOIRFUND

In honor of your retirement:Laurie Hadler

Shelley Robbins & John PlanoConnie & Paul Ross

In honor of your birthday:Laurie Hadler

Shelley Robbins & John Plano

YAHRZEIT FUND

In yahrzeit memory of:Sylvia Appelbaum

Jean King & Stuart AppelbaumSarah Ellis

Ian & Betsy EllisLeo Fox

Bill Fox FamilyPauline Grossman

Dale GrossmanWilliam G. Heifort

Jane TrosdahlEdith Hollander

Jeni AlcakovicMeyer Kobrin

Jerry & Hilary KobrinEd Krause

Alyssa Berg Rivka Chayka-Lev

Rafail Lev & Family

D.H.P. LevyIan & Betsy Ellis

Robert RosenPearl Rosen & Family

Stan RubinSteve Rubin

Jack SechterPearl Rosen & Family

Ella SnyderJeni Alcakovic

Rivoli StraussAllyson Perling

Elliot TalerYefim Taler

Minnie VerbinJanice & Henry Snyder

Harry WardPearl Rosen

David WillensonDaniel Linwick

Ida ZylberAdela Peskorz

11

Please Invite Your Friends and Acquaintances to

Meet Mount Zion!

An Open House and Brunch for Unaffiliated Jews in Our Community

Sunday, September 20, 10:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.

Mount Zion's annual Open Houses have been extremely successful in introducing our Temple to those seek a

welcoming and vibrant spiritual home. Please invite those you know who are unaffiliated so they can:

Discover 150+ years of Mount Zion's rich history.

Learn about Mount Zion’s dedication to w orship, learning, & social justice.

Meet our clergy, lay leaders, and Temple members.

Tour our building and religious school.

Get a taste of our various organizations and activities.

Attendees can RSVP at mzion.org or contact the Temple with questions at 651-698-3881.

Complimentary High Holy Days tickets will be given to those who RSVP.Childcare Provided.

Meet! Listen! Nosh!

New for 2015!Members whose invitees come to the Open House will be invited to a

“Lunch with the Clergy”event later this fall!

Yom Rishon – the First Sunday of Religious SchoolSunday, September 20, 9:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.Yom Rishon is the first day of Sunday Religious School classes for stu-dents in grades PreK-6.

9:30-10:00 Welcome Back Assembly10:00 Parents/Guardians escort child(ren) to

classrooms, visit classrooms, meet teachers, and pick up classroom information.

10:00-11:15 Session 111:15 Healthy Snack – provided by Mount Zion11:15-12:15 Session 2

New Family Welcome and Orientation (All Grades)Sunday, September 20, 10:00-11:00 a.m.We want to welcome new families to the Mount Zion ReligiousSchool! Join together for a brief information session where you canlearn more about our program, philosophy and curriculum. Fol-lowing the presentation there will be time for questions, as well as, ameet and greet with parents from a variety of grades. Then stop by theNew Member Open House beginning at 10:30 a.m.

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RELIGIOUS SCHOOL NEWSLower School

*Sign up!We are asking families to sign-up children in grades 2-6 for children’sprogramming on both Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. With yourhelp, we will be able to plan and staff our programs accordingly. Makeyour reservation here: mzion.nirsham.com/events

Chai School

Calendar Highlights9/2 5:30 p.m. TCJY (9th-12th) Twins Game9/12 10:30 a.m. Tot Shabbat9/14 Rosh Hashanah

10:15 am. 2nd- 6th Grade Program11:00 a.m. Tot Service11:45 a.m. Teen Service

9/16 First Day of Religious School4:30 p.m. 1st session5:45 p.m. T’fillah6:00 p.m. 2nd session & Chai School

9/19 SPORTY Kickoff9/20 9:00 a.m. SPORTY Car Wash

9:30 a.m. Yom Rishon (1st Sunday)10:00 a.m. New Family Orientation10:30 a.m. New Member Open House12:30 p.m. 11th/12th Grade Program Kickoff12:30 p.m. Noar Tzion Carmelicious Kickoff

9/23 Yom Kippur10:15 a.m. 2nd- 6th Grade Program11:00 a.m. Tot Service11:45 a.m. Teen Service4:00 p.m. Teen Program

9/25-6 7th grade A Day Apart Shabbaton9/27 11:00 a.m. 11th grade New York Mtg.10/4 Sukkot Festival

11:30 a.m. Consecration12:00 p.m. Picnic Lunch12:15 p.m. JYG Skyzone Kickoff

10/9-11 Confirmation RetreatNFTY-NO Fall Kallah

10/10 10:30 a.m. Tot Shabbat10/12 11th Grade “Crossing Delancy”10/14-18 11th Grade NY Trip10/14 & 18 MEA Weekend – No School10/23-25 8th/9th Grade Torah & Teva Shabbaton 10/25 12:15 p.m. Noar Tzion Craftober!10/30 SPORTY Event

ConsecrationSunday, October 411:30 a.m. ServicePicnic to follow ($5/person)

Join the congregational festive service and ournewest students as they receive their mini-Torahs as part of Consecration. Sign up at mzion.nirsham.com

Chai School Starts September 16!5:30 - 6:00 p.m. Grover’s Grub

Pizza Slice: $2, Izze: $1, Combos: $2.75, Candy: $.25, Snacks: $.75

6:00 - 7:15 p.m.Chai School 7th-10th Grade Classes

11th/12th Grade Program Kickoff!Sunday, September 20, 12:30 p.m.

How does our gender affect the way we interactwith our world? Spend the year learning, re-flecting and bonding with your peers whilelooking at gender and issues that matter to youthrough a Jewish lens. Grab some lunch andlearn about this exciting new program!

Who to ContactIf you have questions about Religious School registration, Early Childhood programming, Lower School, Chai School or Family Education, please contact Sue Summit, Religious School Director, atssummit@mzion.org. If you have questions about youth groups, Jewish camps, Shabbatonim, Gesher (7th grade), 11th & 12th gradeprograming, please contact Liza (Mole) Henry, Youth Engagement Associate, at lhenry@mzion.org. You can also reach Sue and Liza at651-698-3881.

If you haven’t registered for the 2015-16 school year, go tomzion.nirsham.com.

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YOUTH ENGAGEMENT NEWS

Youth Groups

Shabbatonim

Noar Tzion (4th-6th grade youth group)

Caramelicious Kickoff! Sunday, September 20, 12:30-1:30 p.m.Kick off the school year by meeting new friends, noshing some lunch,playing some games, and making our very own caramel apples!

Craftober!Sunday, October 25, 12:15-3:00 p.m.Celebrate the glory that is fall and make some crafts to celebrate theseason. Make your house bright with crafts for your whole family!

Gesher JYG (7th-8th grade youth group)

Kickoff at Skyzone!Sunday, October 4, 12:15-3:30 p.m.Jump in to the school year by joining us forlunch, jumping around like crazy, and gettingto know your friends even better. If 10 ormore JYGers come to this event, we'll also be going to Grand OleCreamery for ice cream!

SPORTY (9-12th grade youth group)

Twins Game!Wednesday, September 2, 5:30 p.m.Join all your Jewish friends for a night at Target Field! Go Twins!

September 19: SPORTY Kickoff

October 9-11: NFTY-NO Fall Kallah in Duluth, MN

October 30: Spend Shabbat Evening with SPORTY!

Torah and Teva: 8th/9th Grade Shabbaton! Friday, October 23 – Sunday, October 25Join your best Mount Zion friends for a weekend at Eagle Bluff! We willspend the weekend sleeping in dorms, exploring the outdoors, celebratingShabbat and challenging ourselves on the rock walls and ropes courses!

A Day Apart: 7th Grade ShabbatonSpend Shabbat bonding with your class. During this Shabbaton we willtruly take a day to enjoy Shabbat separate from the rest of the week whilewe get ready for an amazing year in 7th Grade!

SPORTY Carwash!September 20, 9:00 a.m.-12:45 p.m.$10/car, All proceeds support SPORTY!

Help SPORTY’s High Holiday Food Drive!Pick up a bag from SPORTYites on Rosh Hashanah and bring it backon Yom Kippur full of food for Neighborhood House! Together wecan make a huge impact! Monetory donations also accepted.

Be a Leader!We are excited to announce the formation of Noar Tzion and JYGYouth Advisory Committees! Please keep your eyes and ears openfor more information to come soon about this wonderful leadershipopportunity for you/your child(ren)!

SISTERHOOD

MIRIAM’S WELLCome See Our New Store!

Grand Re-Opening Sunday September 20, 9:30am – 12:15pm

Thank you to our volunteers, without you we cannot keep our doors open!

We are open when Religious school is in session:Wednesdays 4:30-7:15 p.m.; Sundays 9:30-12:15 p.m. and

Fridays 1/2 hr before services.

Sisterhood Opening MeetingSunday, September 27, 10:00 a.m. at Mount Zion

Photography program: Peggy Kipp will be talking about how totake/improve your pictures (not the technical stuff), using computer fil-ing systems, sharing methods, and creating books to preserve your per-sonal and Sisterhood’s history. Peggy held this discussion at The Art ofBeing Jewish Kallah in May, and it was very popular! Light brunch willalso be served!

Sisterhood Membership DuesIt’s time to pay your Mount Zion Temple Sisterhood membershipdues! Please send your $40 to Peggy Kipp at 2273 Wagon Wheel TrailMendota Hts., MN 55120. Call Co-Presidents Sheri Frisque 651-270-3352 or Ruth Garner 651-278-9596 with any questions.

Save the Dates!Monday, October 19, 7 p.m. at Mount Zion – There willalso be tables for canasta, bunco and other card games. Planned by BethEttinger and Gail Gendler –more information to follow.

Monday, October 26, 7 p.m. at Mount Zion – The nextWomen's Networking event features speaker Connie Hertz on"M.O.V.E. 4 Ways to Get Unstuck and Live the Life You Love." DreamCoach, Motivational Speaker, Author and Entrepreneur Connie Hertzteaches people the art of finding lasting joy and living a life they love.Learn more at conniehertz.com/

Wednesday, November 4 at Mount Zion – Red Cross BloodDrive Mount Zion will again be hosting the Red Cross Blood Drive.Please look for more information coming soon.

Keep up to Date with Mount Zion’s Online Calendar!

www.mzion.org

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Engaging TorahScholar-in-Residence with Michael Carasik, author of The Commentators’ Bible

Thursday-Shabbat, Oct 22-24, 2015

Thursday, Oct 22 (12-1:15 p.m.) - RASHI AND HIS FRIENDSWith the Rashi Study Group and Open to All

New Location: Fredrikson and Byron - 200 South Sixth Street - Suite 4000

In memory of William “Bill” Kampf on his 10th Yahrzeit; Founder of Rashi Study Group and Mount Zion Past-President

He’s famous, he’s fabulous, he’s French — and he is the greatest of all Jewish scholars of Bible and of Talmud, too.  He is R. Solomon

Isaacs (1040-1105), who under the name of Rashi has been the ordinary Jew’s guide through Torah and Talmud for the last 900

years. Along the way, we will meet his famous grandson, Rashbam; Rashbam’s antagonist, Abraham ibn Ezra; and Nahmanides, who

some say was responsible for uniting all four men on the pages of the Rabbinic Bible. We will then look at the verse of the week

from Genesis 25 with new insight.

LIFE AND TIMES OF THE COMMENTATORS’ BIBLEShabbat - Friday, Oct 23 (7:30 pm-During Shabbat Services) The first words of the Commentators’ Bible were written on September 11th, 2001.  You’ll learn about how the Commentators’ Bible

was created and designed and get a peek inside the process of creating the Genesis volume.  (And you’ll find out why that volume

comes last!) 

THE BIBLE’S MANY VOICESShabbat - Saturday, Oct 24, 1:00 p.m. Dr. Carasik will also lead the 9 am Torah Study on the weekly portion Lech LechaThe Bible in English, as most of us encounter it, all “sounds the same.” It was translated at more-or-less the same time by people of

similar backgrounds (and indeed sometimes by a single person). But the actual Bible is in Hebrew, not English, and it collects mate-

rial that was composed over a period of 1,000 years. This talk will introduce you to some of the many voices clamoring for their say

in the Bible, sometimes harmonizing and sometimes in discord. You will not look at the Bible the same way again after hearing it.

Michael Carasik, PhD, is the author/translator of The Commentators’ Bible: The Rubin JPS

Miqra’ot Gedolot. He teaches Biblical Hebrew at the University of Pe nnsylvania and is the weekday Torah reader at Historic Congregation Kesher Israel in Center City Philadelphia. He re-ceived his Ph.D. in Bible and the Ancient Near East from Brandeis University, and has taught atvarious universities. His weekly ‘’Torah Talk’’ podcast is available at mcarasik.wordpress.com.

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MAZALLIFE LONG LEARNING ONE STEP AT A TIME

Library News

More New Books in the Library, a Request, and a Thank You

Among the recently published titles of adult fiction added to the collection this past summer are Molly Antopol’s The UnAmericans:Stories; Ronald Balson’s Once We Were Brothers; Jonathan and JesseKellerman’s The Golem of Hollywood; Lihi Lapid’s Woman of Valor,a novel; and Juliana Maio’s City of the Sun. Adult nonfiction titlesinclude: Deborah Feldman’s Exodus: a Memoir; Moshe Halbertal’sMaimonides: Life and Thought; Lital Levy’s Poetic Trespass: Writing Between Hebrew and Arabic in Israel/Palestine; MaudMandel’s Muslims and Jews in France: History of a Conflict; LipikaPelham’s The Unlikely Settler; and Elana Maryles Sztokman’s TheWar on Women in Israel. Israel travel guides were made more current with the addition of Genevieve Belmaker’s Jerusalem & theHoly Land (Moon Handbooks); Sue Bryant’s Israel (GlobetrotterTravel Guides); Inbal Baum’s (and others) Fodor’s Israel; SimonGriver’s Insight Guides Israel; and Robert Ullian’s Frommer’sEasyGuide to Israel.

Charles Fodor, chair of the Library Committee, is making a request:if you have any Jewish themed DVDs – anything from feature films,documentaries, Israel and Israeli, Holocaust, travel, children’s mate-rials, too, that you are willing to part with, please donate them to theLibrary’s new DVD collection so that we may share them with awider audience in our community.

Even though it has been over a month since their annual sale, I wouldonce again like to acknowledge the generosity of our Sisterhood inmaking several titles available to the Library, thereby enhancing ourcollection’s holdings and furthering our mission to make more di-verse materials available to our congregation. Thank you from theheart, Sisterhood!

Bob Epstein, Librarian (librarian@mzion.org)

Interfaith Book DisplayMount Zion Library will be having an interfaith book displayfrom October 1-15. Stop by and check out what our library hasand give Bob our librarian suggestion for other books to poten-tially order to add to our collection.

Also, there will be a suggestion book to submit ideas for interfaithprogramming at Mount Zion.

Maureen Davidson, Interfaith Coordinatorreendavidson@gmail.com

Food for Thought Learn and Nosh before Shabbat Services

5:45 - 6:15 p.m. Gathering and a Light Nosh6:15 - 7:15 p.m. Food for Thought Discussions

Discussion over wine, juice, and light appetizers. Child care available.

Friday, October 9

Friday, November 13

When Judaism and Neuroscience Speak the Same Language

Speaker: David Alter

A search through ageless Jewish sources and contemporary neuro-science findings reveals something amazing. They support eachother when it comes to key practices that support a youthful brain,a vital mind and an awakened heart throughout the second half oflife. Come learn about the 9 keys to a long-term brain health.

David Alter, PhD is a clinical health psychologistand neuropsychologist with 30 years of experience,currently in private practice in Minneapolis. He is theco-author, with Henry Emmons, MD, of StayingSharp, the recently released title that is a practicalguidebook for building and maintaining a sharp,healthy, and vibrant brain. His book’s blueprint can

help people to live more joyfully, age more gracefully, and grow greaterintimacy in relationships, no matter your current age.

Building A Dementia Friendly CommunitySpeakers: Betsy Ellis and Chris Rosenthal

Learn the difference between dementia and normal forgetfulness,how to recognize dementia in someone you might interact with inthe community, and the most helpful ways to communicate.

Betsy Kane Ellis, MS, is the Life Enrichment Specialist for the Life Enrichment Action Program atJewish Family Services of Saint Paul. She has workedas a Bereavement Counselor in hospice, a Caregivers’Support Group facilitator, a “Powerful Tools for Caregivers” instructor, and a Dementia Champion pre-

senter. She is a member of the Twin Cities Jewish Community Alzheimer’sTask Force and the Faith Community Learning Collaborative.

Chris Rosenthal LISW, MSW, is director of the Senior Services department at Jewish Family Services ofSt. Paul. Chris has dedicated her 35 year social workcareer to working with older adults and their care partners, especially with those affected by dementia.Chris co-chairs the Twin Cities Jewish Community

Alzheimer’s Task Force.

Both Betsy and Chris are members of Mount Zion Temple.

MaZAL Adult LearningFor all classes, go to mzion.org

or see MaZAL brochure.

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Please join us for intergenerational worship and learning with our Artist-in-Residence, Ellen Allard

Song, Spirit, and CelebrationFriday-Sunday, November 6-8

Ellen Allard, multi-award winning recording artist, composer, performer, and educator, is one of the most popular and influentialJewish musicians and educators on today’s vibrant contemporaryJewish music scene. Widely recognized for her appeal to audiencesof all ages, Ellen’s songs have become the gold standard when itcomes to engaging children and adults of all ages and helping themstrengthen their Jewish identities. With a strong commitment tobuilding community through music, Ellen has a unique, charismatic,charming, and heartwarming way of inviting audiences to sing along,whether performing a concert, facilitating a student or teacher workshop, or leading a worship service.

Friday, November 6:6:30 p.m.Ellen joins with our clergy, Shir Tzion, and Shir Chants in a powerful, uplifting Shabbat experience for all ages.

8:00 p.m.Congregational Dinner honoring Jane Steinman (see p. 17)

Saturday, November 7:5:00 p.m.S’eudat shlishit (Third meal of Shabbat) picnic (bring your own vegetarian, nut-free dinner)

6:00 p.m.Havdalah service and Tot program (co-sponsored with PJ Library)Ellen leads us in a “PJ Havdalah Party” with songs, milk and cookies, and a bedtime story! If you like, wear your PJs and bring your special blankie, stuffed animal, or pillow!

Sunday, November 8:11:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m.Ellen leads an intergenerational tefillah (prayer service) with participation of Shir Tzion, Shir Chants, and YOU!

To learn more about Ellen or hear samples of her music, go to:

ellenallard.com

Award-winning recording artist, educator, and children’s performer

Ellen Allard

A Weekend in Memory of Jane SteinmanWhen our beloved past Executive Director died five years ago, friends and family established a fund in her memory.

Jane’s family asked that the fund be used to bring the gift of music - specifically to engage our children - to our community. We are pleased to welcome Ellen Allard for this special Shabbat and weekend.

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Attention Knitters and Crocheters!Suns, Dec. 6, 13, Jan 3, 10, 24, 31, Feb. 7, 21, 28, 9:45 a.m.

You do not need to attend all sessions!

What: Making Healing Shawls for our Caring Com-munity Program and warm hats for Project Home.Who? Knitters and crocheters of all abilities who wantto participate in these fun, social, and rewarding proj-ects. If you are a beginner, we can get you started. We hope you canjoin us.

What should I bring? We will supply yarn. If you have needles, pleasebring them. Healing Shawls: Size 13, 24" circular knitting needles orSize N (9mm) crochet hook. Hats: Size 5 or 7 16" circular knittingneedles as well as size 5 or 7 double pointed knitting needles.

Questions? Betsy Rest (651) 578- 1587 or elberest@gmail.com.

L’Chaim 5776 Annual CampaignWelcoming Your Participation

We are nearing the launch of oursecond Mount Zion L’Chaim5776 Annual Campaign. Wewere successful last year becauseof YOU. We hope you willagain consider a gift this year.

Last year our participation goal was 250 gifts and we received 251.For the inaugural year of any campaign effort, that level of participation is awesome, and speaks volumes about how much ourcommunity cares. It is for this reason we are focused on participation—in any amount each member household is comfort-able. We understand giving is a very personal decision, and as such,remain grateful for each member’s consideration to participate.

Membership dues, endowment income, and program fees cover alarge portion of our operating budget. Yet, to strengthen our connections, and build on the wonderful base of people, we wish todo more, ensuring we can maintain what we are today, and build foran even stronger tomorrow. By encouraging our entire communityto participate philanthropically—at any level, delivers a strong andinspired message about the vibrancy of our membership base.

Giving is an active response to gratitude. Financial giving is a way toinvest in our community’s Jewish future. In the Talmud it says,“When a person gives even a perutah [the smallest coin] he or she isprivileged to sense God’s presence.” We invite you to make a contribution that is meaningful to you.

Make your contribution today at mzion.org/donate. If you havequestions, please contact Andrea Bergman, Annual Campaign Co-ordinator, 651-698-3881 / abergman@mzion.org.

YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO

A SHABBAT DINNER IN MEMORY OF

Jane SteinmanMount Zion Temple Executive Director, 2000-2010

Friday, November 6, 2015MOUNT ZION TEMPLE

1300 SUMMIT AVENUE | SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA 55105

Shabbat Service 6:30 PM

Shabbat Dinner 8:00 PM

COST: $18 ADULT; $15 CHILD (11 AND UNDER)Cost beginning Oct. 26: $20 Adult; $17 ChildRegistration closes on Monday, November 2.

We are pleased to be joined by Jane’s husband Gary and theirdaughters Rabbi Eleanor Steinman and Jessica Steinman.

For 10 years, from meeting with potential members,to planning events, from raising funds to orderingsupplies, from helping families celebrate births,

weddings, and B’nai Mitzvah to comforting mournersas they made final arrangements for their loved

ones, Jane brought warmth, grace and elegance tothe position of Executive Director at Mount Zion

Temple. Jane passed away suddenly in 2010, shortlyafter her retirement.

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SOCIAL ACTION UPDATETzedek = Justice

Neighborhood House Volunteer OpportunitiesNeighborhood House, the St. Paul West Sidesocial service agency founded over 100 yearsago by Mount Zion Temple, has the followingvolunteer opportunities:

Skills for School Preschool ProgramHelp 3-5 year-olds prepare for Kindergarten! Most of our childrenspeak a language other than English at home and need a little extrahelp learning how to be successful in the classroom. Assist with crafts,reading, learning ABCs and free play. Weekdays from 11:30 a.m. to1:30 p.m. or M/W/F from 12:30-2:30 p.m.

Evening ChildcareHelp create a fun, engaging learning environment for young childrenwhile their parents are attending English or GED classes. Children are0-4 years old, and participate in games, crafts, and other early learningactivities while their parents are attending English or GED classes.Monday-Thursday from 6-8:30 pm at the Wellstone Center.

Please email Anders at ARMayland@neighb.org for more informationor to sign up!

Brotherhood Meetings All Mount Zion men are invited to these monthly meetings; check youre-mails or This Week at Mount Zion for dates and join us for a lightsupper and discussion. The next dinner meetings are September 29 andOctober 27 at Mount Zion, both at 6 p.m. Help us plan our winter andspring activities. Please let us know if you will join us. RSVP tobkserle@yahoo.com.

Brotherhood Speaker Series & Bagel Brunch – October 11All are welcome to join us for a bagel-and-lox breakfast, and to hear anexciting presentation by Steve Hunegs – Executive Director of the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) of Minnesota and theDakotas. Steve will discuss recent events of impact to the Jewish community both here and abroad.

Fall Bike Ride Sunday, October 18 (MEA Weekend) 10 a.m.Join Brotherhood along the new Browns Creek State Trail. This newlypaved, very scenic trail is on the on the old Zephyr railroad line. It hasbecome the most popular bike trail in the state. Lunch will be in Stillwater. We will leave at 10:00 a.m. from the Gateway Trail parkinglot in Oakdale. The lot is located at the intersection of 55th Street Northand Hadley Avenue North, one block south of MN Highway 36 Eastand just west of the junction of 694 West and Highway 36. The bikeride is approximately 20 miles. Please RSVP to Richard Newmark(ranewmark@gmail.com or call Richard at 651-270-9345).

Feed My Starving Children, October 22, 8:00 p.m. This annualevent has been very well-attended each year. It is open to ALL members of the Mount Zion community, as we come together topack nutritious meals for needy children all over the world. Our shiftis from 8:00 to 9:30 p.m. However, you may want to meet us earlier atPanera for an optional dinner, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Panera is locatedat 1260 Promenade Place in Eagan 55121, just north of Yankee Doo-dle Road. Feed My Starving Children is located at 990 Lone OakRoad #136 in Eagan 55121. All ages are welcome; younger childrenneed to be supervised. Shel Finver is the organizer. Please RSVP to Shelat 651-454-5269 or e-mail him at finvers@comcast.net

Brotherhood Membership forms were mailed to all men in our con-gregation. Please sign up and send your annual dues to the Temple tosupport our mitzvot. Brotherhood provides books for B’nei Mitzvahand confirmation celebrations, supports the Purim Carnival, subsidizesTemple dinners and provides the popular Mother’s Day brunch. If youhave any questions about membership, please e-mail me atbkserle@yahoo.com.

We wish you a prosperous and healthy New Year.Shanah Tovah, Brian Serle, Brotherhood President

BROTHERHOOD

CARING COMMUNITY

Mount Zion Cares!The Caring Community Program is here to help Mount Zion Temple

members in their moments of need. We reach out to you with a helping hand when there is injury, illness, grief or other life stressors.

We provide meals, rides, visitors, and shiva support.To get help contact the program at caringcommunity@mzion.org

or call 651-698-3881.

Members 55 and olders

PRIME TIMERS

Prime Timers Volunteering at Second Harvest Thursday, September 17, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Second Harvest (1149 Gervais Ave.)

Volunteers must be pre-registered by Weds, Sept.9 to Lanie Paymar at lanieclogs@gmail.com or651-690-2515. Just before volunteering therewill be an optional lunch at 11:30 a.m at PizzaRanch (1845 East County Rd D, Maplewood).

NOAZIM - 20S/30S GROUPMaking Judaism relevant to 20- & 30- somethings at Mount Zion! For more information on upcoming events, to get involved, or to simply get on our mailing list, email Cantor Strauss-Klein at jstraussklein@mzion.org or find our group on Facebook!

Soul Food FridayCome for the food, stay and feed your soul!

First Friday of every month.

Sept. 4 & Oct. 2Shabbat Dinner* @ 7:15 p.m.

Kabbalat Shabbat Service @ 8:15 p.m.

Connect with new people at this friendlyand inviting service! Singles, couples, partners, ALL are welcome! *Fordinner, RSVP on NOAZIM Facebook page ($5).

INSIDE

Mount Zion Temple1300 Summit AvenueSaint Paul, MN 55105

Address Service Requested

Rabbi Adam Stock SpilkerRabbi Esther AdlerCantor Jennifer Strauss-KleinCantor Rachel Stock SpilkerLarry Solomon, Executive DirectorSusan Amram Summit, Religious School DirectorDan Rybeck, PresidentSusan Robiner, President-Elect

Teresa Matzek, Iton Tziyon, editortmatzek@mzion.orgPhone: 651-698-3881 ~ Fax: 651-698-1263Website: www.mzion.org

PRESORTED STANDARDUS POSTAGE PAIDPERMIT NO. 814TWIN CITIES, MN

Rabbi’s Letter 2

Service Schedule 3

High Holy Days 4-5

Chai Notes 6

From the President 7

B’nei Mitzvah 8

Contributions 9

MZ Open House 10

Religious School 11

Youth Engagement 12

Sisterhood 13

MaZAL 15

Annual Campaign 17

Social Action Update 18

High Holy Days ScheduleSee pages 4-5

Selichot A Night that Ushers in the High Holy Days

Saturday, September 5Held at Adath (Minnetonka)

See p. 4 for more details.

Eat. Drink. Shake.CONNECT with fellow MZ members at

one of three Sukkot Open Houses!

Sunday evening, September 27

See p. 5 for more details.

Engaging TorahScholar-in-Residence with Michael Carasik, author of The Commentators’ Bible

Thursday-Shabbat, Oct 22-24See p. 14 for details.

A Weekend in Memory of Jane SteinmanSong, Spirit, and Celebrationwith our Artist-in-Residence, Ellen Allard

Friday-Sunday, November 6-8See p. 16-17 for details.

What Makes Food Jewish? A Scholar-in-Residence Weekend

November 19-22Tina Wasserman

author of a new, bestselling cookbook.

See p. 9 for more details.