Shabbat Service - Normandy Shabbat/ Birthday & Anniversary Blessings
Saturday, June 6 • 9:30 am
Saturday Morning Minyan on ZOOM
Saturday, June 6 • 10:30 am
B’nei Mitzvah Service - Zachary Chirls and Emmy Hershkowitz
Friday, June 12 • 6:30 pm
Shabbat Service/PRIDE Shabbat
Saturday, June 13 • 11:00 am
Shabbat Body & Soul Walk
Friday, June 19 • 6:30 pm
Summer Shabbat Service in the Fortunoff Family Garden
Saturday, June 20 • 9:30 am
Saturday Morning Torah Study - hybrid
Friday, June 26 • 6:30 pm
Summer Shabbat Service in the Fortunoff Family Garden
Saturday, June 27 • 9:30 am
Shabbat Body & Soul Yoga
JULY
Friday, July 3 • 6:30 pm
Summer Shabbat Service in the
Fortunoff Family Garden - Birthday & Anniversary Blessings
Saturday, July 4 • 9:30 am
Saturday Morning Minyan on ZOOM
Friday, July 10 • 6:30 pm
Summer Shabbat Service in the Fortunoff Family Garden
Saturday, July 11 • 9:30 am
Shabbat Body & Soul Yoga
Friday, July 17 • 6:30 pm
Summer Shabbat Service in the Fortunoff Family Garden
Saturday, July 18 • 9:30 am
Saturday Morning Torah Study - hybrid Friday, July 24 • 6:30 pm
Summer Shabbat Service in the Fortunoff Family Garden
Saturday, July 25 • 11:00 am
Shabbat Body & Soul Walk
Friday, July 31 • 6:30 pm
Summer Shabbat Service in the Fortunoff Family Garden
AUGUST
Saturday, August 1 • 9:30 am
Saturday Morning Minyan on ZOOM
Friday, August 7 • 6:30 pm
Summer Shabbat Service in the Fortunoff Family Garden - Birthday & Anniversary Blessings
Saturday, August 8 • 11:00 am
Shabbat Body & Soul Walk
Friday, August 14• 6:30 pm
Summer Shabbat Service in the Fortunoff Family Garden
Saturday, August 15 • 9:30 am
Shabbat Body & Soul Yoga
Friday, August 21 • 6:30 pm
Summer Shabbat Service in the Fortunoff Family Garden
Saturday, August 22 • 9:30 am
Saturday Morning Torah Study - hybrid Friday, August 28 • 6:30 pm
Summer Shabbat Service in the Fortunoff Family Garden
Saturday, August 29 • 9:30 am
Saturday Morning Torah Study - hybrid
Summer Shabbat Services
June 19 - September 4 at 6:30 pm
Normandy Shabbat
Friday, June 5 • 6:30 pm
During the service, we will say Kaddish for the brave Jewish soldiers who gave their lives defending our freedoms during the Normandy invasion in 1944.
Friday, June 12 • 6:30 pm
featuring our very special guest speaker
DR. AARON GROTAS
followed by the Brotherhood/ Friend of a Friend BBQ
Co-Chaired by Lauren & David Borkon and Carol & James Rotenberg
The notion of Jewish Peoplehood encompasses Judaism as a civilization with a collective story, religion, culture, language, ethical tradition, and dedication to community.
Our goal in presenting this series is to strengthen the connection between Jews around the world.
To mark four years since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, our Temple Sinai community came together on Friday, March 13, as part of our Celebrating Jewish Peoplehood series, to learn about the extraordinary humanitarian missions of Dr. Grigory Mashkevich.
Dr. Mashkevich was introduced by Lauren Borkon, co-chair of the series and Temple Sinai Vice President, who spoke about Sinai’s ongoing efforts to support the Ukrainian people. For four years, our community has helped ease trauma, feed the hungry, clothe those in need, open homes to those seeking refuge, and help families in New York City find apartments, enroll children in school, furnish homes, and begin again.
Dr. Mashkevich, a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon born in Lviv, Ukraine, shared his powerful work providing reconstructive care for war-injured patients and helping train local physicians. His missions reflect a deep commitment to healing, collaboration, and long-term impact.
Board Member Carol Rotenberg, who is also co-chair of the Celebrating Jewish Peoplehood series, offered these words of appreciation: Sometimes a word like thank you doesn’t seem big enough. Even coupled with our respect and admiration, it doesn’t do enough to acknowledge the dedication and selflessness in the face of enormous danger. To save a life is to save the world. Thank you, Dr. Mashkevich, for all that you do on behalf of the Ukrainian people. We stand behind you and your extraordinary achievements of healing the sick and wounded in the face of such extraordinary adversity.
Soon after sharing his story with our community, Dr. Mashkevich traveled to Ukraine for his fifth medical mission, Face to Face. His continued dedication is a powerful reminder of what it means to bring skill, compassion, and humanity to those who need it most.
Zachary Chirls
June 6
Parents: Shervin & Scott Chirls
Siblings: Selena-15
Grandparents:
Fariba & Rahim Ramin
Randy & Brian Warshaw
Kim & Richard Chirls
School: Willets Road School - 7th grade
Parsha: Beha’alotecha
June 6
Parents: Kelly & Michael Hershkowitz
Siblings: Ryan-17, Jake-14
Grandparents:
Lynne & Bob Taylor
Carol & William Sokolic
Diane & the late Tom Hershkowitz
School: Roslyn Middle School - 7th grade
Parsha: Beha’alotecha
Buenos Aires * Iguazu * Rio de Janeiro
From the cultural elegance of Buenos Aires to the thundering power of Iguazu Falls and the vibrant streets of Rio de Janeiro, this journey weaves together natural wonder, Jewish heritage, and South America’s unmistakable rhythm. Along the way, we explore iconic landscapes, engage with living Jewish communities, savor regional cuisine and experience the music, dance and traditions that define Argentina and Brazil—creating a richly layered adventure filled with meaning, connection, and unforgettable moments.
ON THIS TOUR, WE WILL:
• Connect with South America’s vibrant Jewish communi�es, rich tradi�ons, and shared Shabbat experiences in Buenos Aires and Rio.
• Enlighten your journey through iconic cultural landmarks, living history, and breathtaking wonders from Iguazu Falls to Rio’s Sugarloaf Mountain.
• Inspire your spirit through tango, gaucho tradi�ons, vibrant music, and unforge�able coastal views.
…and SO much more!
from RABBI WHITE’S study
Rabbi Michael White rabbiwhite@mysinai.org
Summertime, and the Livin’ is Easy
Summer arrives in June. Time for leisurely after-dinner walks, for golf and tennis, for picnics, the beach, outdoor concerts, and more. Our outdoor courtyard Shabbat services begin on Friday, June 19. I love seeing people arrive in shorts and sunglasses, greeting one another with relaxed smiles, as if the world’s anxieties soften in the summer sun.
I’ve been thinking about a poem by Yehuda Amichai, The Place Where We Are Right, a quiet and perfect inspiration for this season:
From the place where we are right flowers will never grow in the spring
Amichai reminds us to let go of rigidity, of the defensive crouch that the year’s busy responsibilities can impose, and to make space again for growth, for love, for beauty.
High Holy Days 2026
Selichot
Saturday, September 5
Erev Rosh Hashanah
Friday, September 11
Rosh Hashanah
Saturday, September 12 &
Sunday, September 13
Erev Yom Kippur
Sunday, September 20
Yom Kippur
Monday, September 21
We need summer’s respite. We crave the calming of heart and mind, the simple pleasures; a glass of cold lemonade after a warm day, an unhurried conversation, a moment in the sun. So much of the year requires us to be driven, moving from one obligation to the next. Summer invites us, gently, to step back from that intensity, to rest, to reconnect with family and friends, and to allow our spirits to bloom again.
So this summer, make time for long walks, for barbecues, for sitting in the sun with a good book, or a good friend. And join us for Shabbat services, and yes, you can come in shorts.
As the poet Mary Oliver so beautifully teaches in Instructions for Living a LifeInstructions for living a life: Pay attention. Be astonished. Tell about it.
Have a wonderful summer,
Please check your email for details on how you can include the names of your loved ones in this year’s Memorial Book. This year’s submissions must be received by Friday, August 14
Rabbi Michael White
Reflections from the President
Jeffrey Sklar jsklar@mysinai.org
Rescheduled, Not Cancelled
We have witnessed Israel and the United States stand together in defense of freedom and democracy, and in solidarity with the Iranian people who continue to suffer under a brutal regime. The joint operation, referred to as Roaring Lion or Epic Fury, depending on the source, offers hope that the region may be moving toward greater stability and deeper cooperation with Israel. As I write, additional nations have joined the U.S. and Israel after coming under attack from Iranian missiles.
That this operation unfolded during Purim feels especially meaningful — a modern echo of an ancient story. Once again, a threat against the Jewish people has been met with courage, unity, and resolve.
Former Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres famously said, The most important thing in life is to dare. His vision for Israel was rooted in possibility, and his words have felt especially resonant in recent weeks as Israel and the United States have stood side by side. Even as news of a ceasefire brings welcome relief, it also reminds us how fragile peace can be. Resilience is not passive — it is a choice.
This war has affected all of us, some more directly than others. It has disrupted our plans, but it has not stopped them.
Rabbi White’s congregational trip to Israel, originally scheduled for May, has been moved to November.
Family trips planned for Passover are now set for the High Holy Days in September.
Summer vacations and Birthright trips have also been rescheduled.
The theme is clear: rescheduled, not cancelled.
I remain confident in the resilience and courage of the Jewish people, in the strength of Israel’s citizens, and in the steadfast determination of the IDF and the U.S. military. My thoughts and prayers are with all those in Israel and across the region who have been injured or who have lost loved ones during this war.
Jeffrey Sklar President
We can not do what we do without YOU! The Social Action Committee practices tikkun olam. As we reflect on this past year, we are so grateful for the community that surrounds us - volunteers, donors, and friends. Together, we create a strong sense of Temple Sinai community giving that reaches near and far. YOU are whay me make a difference. THANK YOU!
Elie Weisel said, In the face of suffering, one has no right ... not to see. The Social Action Committee sees, hears, and responds.
How You Can Help This Summer!
In June, July, and August, please donate NEW UNDERWEAR & SOCKS for men, women, and children, and place them in our bins in the temple lobby. You can also use our Amazon link and have the items shipped directly to the temple: https://bit.ly/TSRSA-Amazon.
Let’s Look Ahead!
We’re not trying to rush the summer, but the High Holy Days will be here before we know it. We will start off the new year with our annual High Holy Days Food Drive. Your donations of items and tzedakah make a difference we witness first hand. Tikkun olam is about repairing the world, and Social Action does that, one by one. One person at a time, one meal at a time, one jacket at a time, one book at a time, one heart to another - every time
See the flyer on the next page for details about the Food Drive and a coupon from Holiday Farms.
NAMI the National Alliance on Mental Illness
NAMI is dedicated to providing support to the ever-growing number of people suffering from mental illness.
If you or anyone you know is suffering from anxiety, depression, or emotional distress, please contact the NAMI HelpLine at 1.800.950.6264 or info@nami.org
Give Tzedakah!
Your contribution to the Social Action Fund means together we make meaningful differences to so many. To make a donation you can visit mysinai.org/donate or call the temple office at 516.621.6800
The Social Action Committee’s dedication and commitment to tikkun olam, repairing the world, reaches near and far. The feel-good impact of what we do touches not only those we help, but our own hearts as well. If you’d like to be part of it, we’d love to hear from you—please reach out to socialaction@mysinai.org.
We thank you deeply and wish you a happiness-filled summer!
high holy days hunger project
Donate on Yom Kippur
Monday, September 21 from 8:30 am-4:00 pm
We encourage you to help those in need in our area by donating non-perishables like these suggested items
Please remember: NO GLASS CONTAINERS
Do a mitzvah on Yom Kippur and help our Social Action Committee organize the food donations!
Holiday Farms has graciously provided us with a 10% off coupon to purchase non-perishable food for this drive. Use the coupon from August 31 through September 21, 2026, in-store only.
As we approach the summer, it is an absolute joy to reflect on all the incredible events and activities that have brought us together! We hope you will join us for our Closing Meeting and Brunch!
Purim Bags
With a heartfelt thank you to Barbara Blatte for all her hard work preparing Purim bags for so many years, FOF members stepped up to take over this task! Together, we filled the bags with raisins, pretzels, groggers, candies, hamantaschen, and more. Then, we set out to deliver these special treats. Next year, we will continue this activity, and we hope you will consider participating in this very special Purim tradition!
Games Day
The Fourth Annual FOF Games Day was a huge success, with over 40 women attending! Once again, this fabulous event was planned by FOF members Pamela Potter-Osit and Diane Hirsch. This was a chance for FOF members to bring their own groups or join others in friendly games of canasta and Mah Jongg. In addition to a lite breakfast, a delicious catered lunch was enjoyed by all. Thank you to Nikki Schreiber of Gifts by Niks for the adorable game bag she created as a favor for all those who attended! Charitable donations were made following the event.
Big ZOOM Bingo Bash
Bingo is back, and FOF has embraced the trend! Once again, FOF member Tammy Szerencsy hosted our Big ZOOM Bingo Bash with teen hosts Ashley Szerencsy and Ian Szerencsy. There were prizes, fun for everyone, and a lot of laughs! Next year, join us as we take this event off ZOOM to experience it in person at Temple Sinai. We are so excited that this has become such an uplifting and lighthearted annual event that we all look forward to attending!
Learning About Jewish Women
in America, a Celebration of America’s Semiquincentennial!
In March, we continued our year-long theme of honoring Jewish-American women to celebrate America’s Semiquincentennial, the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Thoughtfully spearheaded by FOF member Maribeth Kraus, this program has brought us inspiring stories of Jewish-American women along with an intellectually stimulating group discussion and guided writing for personal reflection. For this session of the program, we enjoyed breakfast together as we learned about Jewish women in sports, dance, culinary, entrepreneurial ventures, education, and philanthropy. This has been such a meaningful ongoing series, which we will continue through the end of 2026. If you haven’t yet attended one of these events, consider joining us in the fall, when we will create coffee table books to commemorate our events, friendships, and the Jewish-American women who inspire us!
Intergenerational Women’s Seder Passover was celebrated through our fun and very special annual Intergenerational Women’s Seder with a delicious Passover dinner from V&Z Caterers. With more than 85 women attending, including FOF members, friends, and family of all ages, we all participated in a beautiful Seder using our very own Haggadot, written and published by our members. Thank you to all the FOF members for reading, singing, and dancing! An event of this size does not happen without a strong team. There are so many people who contributed to the planning and organization, including FOF members Robyn Schreiber, Susan Moisoff, Barbara Wallach, Ginny Jordan, Paula Kraus, Pamela Potter Osit, Donna Liebowitz, and many FOF Past Presidents. We also want to thank Cantor Elena Schwartz, Rabbi Ilana Schachter, Pam Alcala, Debra Hollander, Kathy Diamond, Heather Silva, Lee Mirrer and the entire office and team, the amazing musicians, Temple Sinai Tefillah Intern Sabrina Fabricant, and, of course, Mary Venier and Vincent D’Elia, along with the entire team at V&Z Caterers.
In addition, we received very special news this year. Our beautiful Haggadot were used in a women’s Seder in Hawaii! To make this possible, our FOF Executive Board was in touch with FOF member, Lainie Krasnoff, with help from Cantor Elena and Debra Hollander as well as Heather Silva of Temple Sinai’s administrative team. The Haggadot were created through a wonderful collaboration in which FOF members Robyn Corbin, Jill Goldberg, Ginny Jordan, Loryn Solomon, Debbie Sussmanz”l, and Jacqueline Covey worked closely with Cantor Elena Schwartz and Kathy Diamond to develop a unique women’s Haggadah that highlights the special role and history of Jewish women in the holiday of Passover through words, prayer, and beautifully illustrated images. We are grateful to this group of women for creating our Haggadah so that we can use it in our Intergenerational Women’s Seder, along with women as far away as Hawaii! If you would like your own copy, or multiple copies, please let us know as they are available for sale, and we will be happy to assist you!
Lunch & Learn Sessions
As part of the preparation for the FOF Shabbat on Friday, May 1, we held a two-part Lunch & Learn series. The sessions were graciously hosted by FOF members Anne Niesenbaum (session one) and Diane Hirsch (session two). At each class, we enjoyed lunch while engaging in very thoughtful discussions about Shabbat prayers led by Cantor Elena Schwartz. The service was beautiful, and we are thrilled that many FOF members participated.
Join Us for Our Final Event of the Year!
We hope to see you at our June Monthly Meeting and our Closing Brunch on Friday, June 5 at 10:00 am. Check your emails and the Sunday Source for the RSVP link!
Share Your Ideas!
Do you have an idea for programming or an interest that you would like to explore through FOF? Please let us know! Contact me and our board by emailing us at FOF@mysinai.org. We look forward to hearing from you!
We look forward to welcoming you at these events and more. Watch your inbox for Friend of a Friend emails that share information about upcoming meetings, events, and activities. Come to our meetings to contribute to our planning and programming.
Francine Fabricant, Friend of a Friend President Visit us at mysinai.org/fof Email us at fof@mysinai.org
FOF End-of-Year Brunch and June Meeting Friday, June 5 @ 10:00 am
Sinai Stitches
Sinai Stitches is a group that knits and crochets items for charity. ALL are welcome!
If you would like to learn how to knit, please reach out to be matched with one of the ladies for one-on-one lessons.
All meetings are in person in the temple library, Mondays & Wednesdays from 12:30-2:00 pm:
June 3 • June 15
For more information, contact Michelle Golden at 516.650.6690 or msgolden@optonline.net Advertise in the
Wednesdays at 7:30 pm • in the Library June 10
Kathy Diamond at kdiamond@mysinai.org for
Our children, our future Temple Sinai Religious School
Cantor-Educator Elena Schwartz cantorelenaschwartz@mysinai.org
Another Wonderful School Year in the Books!
Temple Sinai Religious School is a school children love; a place where Jewish learning feels joyful, meaningful, and alive. Our program is infused with warmth, care, and a deep commitment to each child as an individual. With thoughtful attention to every student’s learning and emotional needs, an engaging curriculum, and caring teachers, we strive to create a Jewish educational experience that nurtures knowledge, connection, confidence, and Jewish pride. This meaningful work is sustained by a devoted community. We are deeply grateful to our teachers and teaching assistants for the care, energy, and dedication they bring to our students each day.
We also thank the members of our synagogue who generously share their time and talents, enriching our
program in countless ways. Our sincere appreciation goes to the Religious School Committee, under the leadership of Allyson Stumacher and Amy Zuflacht, for its steadfast commitment to Jewish education. And a special thank you to our office staff, Debra Hollander and Rachel Hirschfeld, whose extraordinary work and constant support help make it all possible. Their efforts help shape a school filled with warmth, meaning, and Jewish pride. What follows is a brief review of our school year and all that our students experienced and accomplished together.
Wishing all of our families a safe, relaxing summer filled with happiness and wonderful memories.
thank you
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our wonderful volunteer teachers, Paula Kraus, Rhonda Wolf, and Lainie Krasnoff, for sharing their time, energy, and care with our students through Jewish cooking experiences. Their warmth and dedication added a joyful and meaningful dimension to our learning this year, and we are so grateful for all they brought to our school community.
Cantor Elena Schwartz
RELIGIOUS SCHOOL YEAR IN REVIEW
Sharing Shabbat - Grandparents
What a beautiful and heartwarming Grandparents Sharing Shabbat celebration! More than 140 people came together for a joyful afternoon of learning, praying, singing, and sharing a festive meal as we celebrated Shabbat across generations. It was especially meaningful to see grandparents, parents, and children sharing this special time together as one community. We are so grateful to our wonderful teachers and volunteers, and especially to Robyn Gosset for her creativity and for bringing so much warmth, meaning, and intergenerational fun to the day. Cantors Elena and Sergei Schwartz led the service and offered a blessing to the children, while our Religious School Torah Explorers - Kindergarten through second graders, celebrated their Milestone Shabbat by helping lead a beautiful service and singing songs in Yiddish and Hebrew. It was truly an afternoon filled with joy, connection, and the spirit of Shabbat.
Torah Explorers - Kindergarten - Second Grade
This year, our Torah Explorers program offered our youngest learners a joyful and meaningful introduction to Jewish life and learning. Through stories, values, and practices rooted in Jewish tradition, our children began building familiarity, comfort, and curiosity about their heritage, laying the foundation for a strong sense of Jewish identity and pride. Throughout the year, students explored Judaism in creative and engaging ways through handson art, singing, cooking, and team-building activities. They were introduced to Hebrew letters, enjoyed a deeper exploration of Jewish holidays and traditions, and began developing a connection to Israel through a thoughtful and age-appropriate Israel curriculum. Students also learned with our Israeli ShinShin, Itay, whose warmth and enthusiasm brought Israel and Jewish culture to life in a special way. They participated in weekly T’filah, explored the weekly Torah portion in ageappropriate ways, and proudly helped lead our Sharing Shabbat community at their Milestone Shabbat service. Students also enjoyed Jewish cooking as part of their learning experience. Torah Explorers continue to give children a warm and positive start to their Jewish journey while nurturing connection, community, and a love for Jewish tradition.
Gesher - Third Grade
This year in Gesher, our third graders took important steps in building a strong foundation in Hebrew reading. Our goal has been to help students become comfortable decoding Hebrew letters and vowels so that, over time, they will be able to read Hebrew words with growing confidence and fluency. Each week, they learned one or two new letters and a new vowel, making steady and meaningful progress along the way. As part of their learning, students practiced and recited Shabbat and holiday blessings while also exploring their meaning and special place in Jewish life. They enjoyed participating in family education programs, learned through the Shalom Learning curriculum, explored the weekly Torah portion and Jewish values, and took part in weekly T’filah. Students also loved learning with our Israeli ShinShin, Itay, whose presence added joy and a personal connection to Israel throughout the year. They also enjoyed Jewish cooking as part of their learning. It has been a joy to watch our Gesher students grow, not only in their Hebrew skills, but also in their connection to Jewish tradition, community, and learning.
Fourth Grade
Our fourth grade students have accomplished so much in Hebrew this year! They have worked hard to master the Hebrew letters and vowel sounds, and they have continued to expand their Hebrew vocabulary with growing confidence. In addition, students began working on their grade-level prayer goals. This year, they are reviewing the Bar’chu, Sh’ma, and Shabbat blessings over candles, wine, and challah. They also learned the V’ahavta, the Chanukah blessings, and all Four Questions for Passover. Alongside their Hebrew learning, students also explored the weekly Torah portion and important Jewish values through the Shalom Learning curriculum. We are very proud of their progress and enthusiasm for learning.
Fifth Grade
Our fifth grade students made wonderful progress this year as they worked toward their grade-level prayer goals. They reviewed the Bar’chu, Sh’ma, Shabbat blessings over candles, wine, and challah, the Chanukah blessings, the Four Questions for Passover, and the V’ahavta. In addition, students learned to read and chant the Kiddush and Avot V’Imahot. Through the Shalom Learning curriculum, they engaged with the weekly Torah portion and meaningful Jewish values, helping them deepen their connection to Jewish life and tradition. Students also participated in weekly T’filah and enjoyed learning with our Israeli ShinShin, Itay, whose presence helped strengthen their connection to Israel and contemporary Jewish life. They also enjoyed Jewish cooking as part of their learning. It has been beautiful to see their skills grow as they deepen their confidence and connection to Hebrew, prayer, and community.
Sixth Grade
Our sixth grade students are making meaningful progress as they continue working on their grade-level prayer goals. This year, they reviewed the Bar’chu, Sh’ma, V’ahavta, and Avot V’Imahot, while also learning the Torah blessings. Through Shalom Learning, students explored the weekly Torah portion and Jewish values, enriching their understanding of how our tradition continues to guide us in everyday life. They also participated in weekly T’filah and benefited from learning with our Israeli ShinShin, Itay, whose presence brought Israel, culture, and personal connection into the classroom experience. Students also enjoyed Jewish cooking as part of their learning. As their Hebrew skills continue to strengthen, students are growing in both confidence and comfort with prayer participation. We are proud of their steady effort and the thoughtful way they are building toward this important milestone in their Jewish learning.
As part of their 6th grade experience, students also participated in our Holocaust and Jewish Resistance unit, an important and meaningful part of their Jewish education. Through this study, they learned about the history of the Holocaust in age-appropriate ways, while also exploring stories of courage, resilience, and Jewish resistance. As part of this learning, students visited the Museum of Jewish Heritage, where they saw the exhibit about the Jews of Denmark, helping bring this history to life in a powerful and memorable way. The unit concluded with a meaningful closing ceremony during which our 6th grade students lit memorial candles, creating a moving moment of remembrance, reflection, and connection to our people’s history.
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Israel Education - Arc
Students don’t just learn Jewish values in this curriculum, they practice them. Through engaging, real-life experiences, they explore what it means to act with intention, show responsibility, and build meaningful relationships. Each lesson helps students connect Jewish teachings to their own lives as they grow into thoughtful and caring individuals. In addition to our values curriculum, our Mitzvah Makers participate in a special eightweek Israel experience, designed to give our students an opportunity to dive deeper into Israel education from biblical times all the way to modern Israel.
This past year, our BMitzvah Family Education programs provided meaningful and engaging opportunities for families to learn and grow together. Through thoughtfully designed fifth and sixth grade experiences, we successfully welcomed our fourth grade families into the BMitzvah journey, fostering a strong sense of connection, comfort, and excitement from the very beginning. Each session emphasized shared learning, creating space for parents and children to engage in conversation, reflection, and hands-on experiences that creatively deepen their connection to Jewish life.
Family engagement remained a clear strength of the program, as families actively participated in exploring Jewish identity, traditions, and rituals in ways that felt both accessible and meaningful. A highlight of the year was our sixth grade Wimpel program, which continued to be exceptionally successful and remains the only program of its kind in the area. Through this experience, families created a personalized ritual object that became part of their child’s BMitzvah service, transforming tradition into a lasting and meaningful family heirloom.
Temple Sinai is committed to providing a comprehensive and engaging Israel education that grows with our students. From early childhood through middle school, learners explore Israel through interactive experiences, historical inquiry, and personal reflection. Our curriculum builds a strong foundation of knowledge while fostering meaningful connections to Israel as a land, a people, and a modern state. Students are encouraged to think critically, ask questions, and develop their own relationship with Israel in a supportive and developmentally appropriate environment.
Our K–6 Israel curriculum introduces students to Israel through exploration, storytelling, and hands-on learning. Beginning with personal experiences and foundational ideas, students gradually build understanding of Israel’s geography, culture, and significance in Jewish life.
In seventh grade, students engage in a more in-depth and thoughtprovoking exploration of Israel through a historical and civic lens. They examine key moments that shaped the Jewish people and the State of Israel, including ancient connections to the land, the rise of Zionism, and the path to independence. Students also explore how Israel functions today, including its system of government and the complexities of its history.
Dina’s Teen Talk
Dina Kwasnicki dkwasnicki@mysinai.org
What an Incredible Year it Has Been!
It’s been quite a year for the Youth & Teen Department filled with so much fun! Check out what we’ve been up to….
LET IT GLOW! Neon Purim Celebration
We changed it up a bit for Purim this year and had a BLAST! Our neon-themed Purim celebration lit up the night with nonstop energy and joy—from silent disco beats and laser tag battles to trivia, games, and dazzling neon-circus performers. Everyone from the ECC to our teens were decked out in glow-in-the-dark swag that made the whole room shine!
Hamantaschen & Heart
Our teens kept the fun going with an afternoon of hamantaschen baking with fun flavors, and packing Purim treats for residents at the Atria of Roslyn. We got especially creative with our hamantaschen this year as we attempted an Oreo cookie filling – we’re not sure it was so successful, but we had a lot of laughs scooping out all of those Oreos and we ate a whole lot of cream filling along the way!
Tikkun Orleans: Service Learning Adventure in Louisiana!
We took 35 AMAZING 8th & 9th graders on the service learning adventure of a lifetime in New Orleans! In just 3½ days, we dove into the city’s unique culture, gave back in meaningful ways, and had an absolute BLAST!
mazel tov
Kelly & Jeff Sklar upon the birth of their granddaughter Ila Drew Sklar
Karen Greenbaum upon the birth of her granddaughter Marni Blake Greenbaum
Marjorie Yelon-Slutzky & Richard Slutzky upon the marriage of their daughter/stepdaughter
Molly to Teddy DeVico
Jill & Ira Perlman upon the birth of their granddaughter Paige Sasha Perlman
Joyce & Philip Sharfstein upon the marriage of their son Robert to Morgan Spindler
Regina & Steven Katz upon the marriage of their daughter Allison to Jacob Gross
Amy & Dr. Richard Braunstein upon the birth of their granddaughter Maya Rose Braunstein
Barbara & Lawrence Blatte upon the birth of their great-granddaughter Maya Rose Braunstein
Dori & Richard Kaplan upon the marriage of their daughter Elana to Leo Gitelman
Dr. Lauren & Richard Orent upon the birth of their granddaughter Paige Alexandra Isserlis
Linda & Michael Fox upon the birth of their granddaughter Clover Bea Fox-Garbade
Jodi & Alan Kaplan upon the birth of their grandson Jacob Ian Kaplan
Sherri Marx-Eisenstadt & Dr. Jay Eisenstadt upon the birth of their granddaughter Charli Rose Galperin
Lisa & Charles Berman upon the birth of their grandson Cameron Stone Feller
with deepest sympathy
Barbara Emmer on the loss of her daughter Julie Gittlin
Dr. Martin Miller on the loss of his mother Judith Miller
Jordan Bergstein on the loss of her sister Elizabeth Heller
Vicki Greenberg on the loss of her husband Louis Greenberg
Howard Saltiel on the loss of his brother Steven Saltiel
Seth Golden on the loss of his uncle Stephen Golden
Cantor Andrew Edison on the loss of his wife Annette Edison
Linda Kessler on the loss of her mother Shirley Dock
Jodi Imperato on the loss of her mother-in-law Florence
Imperato
Richard Barry on the loss of his father Stanley Barry
Annie Gilbert & Joyce Sharfstein on the loss of their mother
Helen Gruber
Rhoda Helman on the loss of her sister Marilyn Telzer
Denise Silverberg on the loss of her husband Robert Silverberg
Samantha Rubin on the loss of her mother Stephanie Goldberg
Lee Goldberg on the loss of his mother Bonney Goldberg
We record with sorrow the death of these temple members
Louis Greenberg Fay Hecht Irwin Cantor
Robert Silverberg Edna Bordiga
With deepest sympathy to their families; May their memories be for a blessing.
The Caring Committee is devoted to the emotional wellness of the members of our congregation, and serves to support congregants throughout the moments of their lives.
If you are looking to volunteer, we are always looking for more people of all ages to help us care for our congregation. We’d love to have you!
Please contact us at
caring@mysinai.org
TEMPLE SINAI
Main Office: 516.621.6800
Early Childhood Center: 516.621.8708
Rabbi Michael White rabbiwhite@mysinai.org
Rabbi Ilana Schachter rabbischachter@mysinai.org
Cantor Sergei Schwartz cantorsergeischwartz@mysinai.org
Cantor-Educator Elena Schwartz cantorelenaschwartz@mysinai.org
Cantor Emeritus
Cantor Andrew H. Edison
President
Jeffrey Sklar
Executive Vice President
Michelle Golden
Vice Presidents
Lauren Borkon
Jana Grotas
Scott Nussbaum
Amy Pepper
Adam Weinschel
Treasurer
Richard Blatt
Secretary
Ginny Jordan
Legal Counsel
Charles Weiss
mysinai.org
Executive Director
Lee Mirrer lmirrer@mysinai.org
Director of Operations & Technology
Heather Silva hsilva@mysinai.org
Marketing & Communications Manager
Kathy Diamond kdiamond@mysinai.org
Financial Manager
Mara Rosenwasser mrosenwasser@mysinai.org
Member Services & Administrative Specialist
Judith Dito jdito@mysinai.org
Brotherhood President Gabriel Markiz brotherhood@mysinai.org
Friend of a Friend President Francine Fabricant fof@mysinai.org
mysinai.org
Director of Membership & Engagement
Adrianne Rubin, PhD arubin@mysinai.org
Director of Youth & Teen Engagement
Dina Kwasnicki dkwasnicki@mysinai.org
Youth & Teen Engagement
Administrative Coordinator
Stacy Rosenthal srosenthal@mysinai.org
Early Childhood Center Director
Lindsay Dayan ldayan@mysinai.org
Executive Assistant to the Rabbis/ B’nei Mitzvah Coordinator
