“Teach your children the history of freedom if you want them to never lose it.”
MARCH • APRIL • MAY
MARCH
Friday, March 6 • 6:30pm
Shabbat Service - Birthday & Anniversary Blessings
Saturday, March 7 • 9:30am
Saturday Morning Minyan on ZOOM
Saturday, March 7 • 10:30am
Bar Mitzvah Service - Sam Burak
Saturday, March 7 • 6:00pm
Havdalah Bar Mitzvah ServiceJack Bedrick
Friday, March 13 • 6:30pm
Shabbat Service/Celebrating Jewish Peoplehood
Saturday, March 14 • 9:30am
Saturday Morning Torah Study - hybrid
Saturday, March 14 • 10:30am
Bar Mitzvah Service - Brody Schifrin
Saturday, March 14 • 6:00pm
Havdalah Bat Mitzvah ServiceScarlett Lalin
Friday, March 20 • 6:30pm
Shabbat Service - Special Guest, Rabbi Ofek Meir
Saturday, March 21 • 9:30am
Shabbat Body & Soul Yoga
Friday, March 27• 4:15pm
Sharing Shabbat - Grandparents
Shabbat with K-2 Milestone Service
Friday, March 27• 6:30pm
Shabbat Service
Saturday, March 28 • 9:30am
Shabbat Body & Soul Meditation
APRIL
Friday, April 3 • 6:30pm
Shabbat Service - Birthday & Anniversary Blessings
Saturday, April 4 • 9:30am
Saturday Morning Minyan on ZOOM
Tuesday, April 7 • 6:30pm
Passover Yizkor Service
Friday, April 10 • 6:30pm
Shabbat Service
Saturday, April 11 • 9:30am
Saturday Morning Torah Study - hybrid
Friday, April 17 • 6:30pm
Shabbat Service
Saturday, April 18 • 9:30am
Shabbat Body & Soul Meditation on ZOOM
Saturday, April 18 • 10:30am
Bar Mitzvah Service - Jake Mashaal
Friday, April 24 • 6:30pm
Shabbat Service - SORTY/Teen Shabbat Service
Saturday, April 25 • 9:30am
Shabbat Body & Soul Yoga
Saturday, April 25 • 10:30am
Bar Mitzvah Service - Matthew Neale
MAY
Friday, May 1 • 6:30pm
Shabbat Service - Friend of a Friend
Shabbat - Birthday & Anniversary
Blessings
Saturday, May 2 • 9:30am
Saturday Morning Minyan on ZOOM
Saturday, May 2 • 10:30am
Bat Mitzvah Service - Micah Weinstock
Friday, May 8 • 6:30pm
Shabbat Service
Saturday, May 9 • 8:30am
Saturday Morning Torah Study - hybrid
Saturday, May 9 • 10:30am
Bat Mitzvah Service - Harper Kwiat
Friday, May 15• 6:30pm
Shabbat Service - Blessing Those
Travelling to Israel with Rabbi White
Saturday, May 16 • 9:30am
Shabbat Body & Soul Yoga
Saturday, May 16 • 7:00pm
Havdalah Bat Mitzvah ServiceAllie Poplock
Friday, May 22 • 6:30pm
Shabbat Service/Shavuot Yizkor Service
Saturday, May 23 • 9:30am
Saturday Morning Minyan on ZOOM
Friday, May 29 • 6:30pm
Shabbat Service
Saturday, May 30 • 11:00am
Shabbat Body & Soul Walk
Saturday, May 30 • 10:30am
Bat Mitzvah Service - Stella Lenson
Rabbi Ofek Meir Returns to Temple Sinai
Rabbi Meir, who is the Headmaster and Managing Director of the Leo Baeck Education Center, one of Israel’s premier educational institutions, will address the Congregation during our Shabbat service.
Friday, March 20 • 6:30pm
Sinai Shabbat Saturdays March-May 2026
Temple Sinai will always hold space for you to remember your loved one and say Kaddish for them. On the calendar below, please note that Kaddish will be recited in all programs marked with *K.
March 7
March 14
March 21
March 28
April 4
April 11
April 18
April 25
May 2
May 9
May 16
May 23
May 30
ZOOM Minyan *K
Torah Study - in person and via ZOOM *K
Shabbat Body and Soul - Yoga with Sharon Epstein *K
Shabbat Body and Soul - Meditation via ZOOM
ZOOM Minyan *K
Torah Study - in person and via ZOOM *K
Shabbat Body and Soul - Meditation via ZOOM
Shabbat Body and Soul - Yoga with Sharon Epstein *K
ZOOM Minyan *K
Torah Study - in person and via ZOOM *K
Shabbat Body and Soul - Yoga with Sharon Epstein *K
ZOOM Minyan *K
Shabbat Body and Soul - Walk
All of these programs start at 9:30am, except for the walk, which starts at 11:00am.
At Temple Sinai, we strive to deepen our sense of Klal Yisrael, and to help our community feel connected to Jews everywhere, across generations and backgrounds. By highlighting the Jewish leaders, institutions, and partnerships that sustain Jewish life, we strengthen pride, belonging, and responsibility to one another. Am Israel Chai!
On January 9, we celebrated Jewish Peoplehood Shabbat with an uplifting worship and learning experience! Our special guest, Rabbi Stacey Blank from Jerusalem, shared the work of the World Union for Progressive Judaism and spoke honestly about the moment we are living in Israel, world Jewry, and rising antisemitism.
On Saturday, Rabbi Blank joined us for a Shabbat Lunch and Learn at the home of Cantors Sergei and Elena Schwartz, where the conversation kept going - thoughtful, open, and insightful. We are grateful for the partnership and support of Carol and Jim Rotenberg, and Lauren and David Borkon, and for their continued commitment to elevating Jewish Peoplehood.
On December 5, 2025, Celebrating Jewish Peoplehood welcomed our special guest Marjan Greenblatt, for a long-awaited talk about the history of the Jews of Iran and the current reality of Jewish life there today. Our temple choir participated and helped lead the service. Afterward, our Temple Sinai community gathered for an Oneg Shabbat filled with Persian food that everyone loved. Marjan and Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO and National Director of the ADL, answered many thoughtful questions and helped deepen our understanding of this remarkable community.
On October 26, 2025, we had the honor of hosting Yulia Ziskel and Anna Vinnitsky from the Israel Philharmonic. We are thankful to them for sharing their world-class talents. We are proud to be a vibrant hub where prayer, learning, and music meet!
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.
Friday, March 13 • 6:30pm during our Shabbat service featuring the Community Choir & Temple Sinai Band
Guest Speaker: Sinai’s Own, Dr. Grigoriy Mashkevich
Marking four years since the invasion of Ukraine
Dr. Grigoriy Mashkevich is a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with advanced fellowship training from UCLA Medical Center. He received his medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine and completed residency training in head and neck surgery at New York Eye & Ear Infirmary. His sub-specialty training at UCLA focused on complex facial reconstruction and cosmetic surgery, with particular emphasis on cancer-related facial repair and cosmetic surgery of the aging face and nose.
Born in Lviv, Ukraine, Dr. Mashkevich felt a personal and professional responsibility to contribute his surgical expertise following the onset of the war. His first humanitarian mission took place in September 2022, approximately six months into the conflict. Since that time, he has participated in and helped establish multiple missions focused on reconstructive care for war-injured patients, with a growing emphasis on education and skills transfer to local physicians. In March, he will return to Lviv for his fifth medical mission, continuing a sustained commitment to care, collaboration, and long-term impact.
An Israeli-style oneg will follow the service.
a six paRt seRies with Rabbi ilana schachteR
From Shifra and Puah, the brave midwives who defied a cruel Pharaoh, to Mordechai who refused to bow before Haman, to the heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, the narratives of the Jewish people are filled with models of resistance and resilience.
Come and be inspired with Rabbi Schachter in this six-session course that blends text study with contemporary discussion.
Thursdays at 7:00pm on ZOOM
March 12 • March 26 April 23 • May 7
RSVP at mysinai.org/talesofthejewishspirit
from RABBI SCHACHTER’S study
Rabbi Ilana Schachter rabbischachter@mysinai.org
What Esther and Moses Can Teach Us About Moral Leadership
Every year, the sacred texts of our tradition call us to engage with them, bringing a fresh perspective to an ancient story.
This year, I have been thinking a lot about the courage of our ancestors, Esther and Moses, and the moral leadership they display. What interests me the most, however, is that neither of these characters wanted to lead initially.
Esther, who was an orphan and raised by her relative Mordechai, is selected to be King Ahasuerus’s new queen. The text tells us that she is careful to conceal her Jewish identity, so that no one in the palace knows that she is a Jew. However, as the story unfolds, we discover that the future of the Jewish people is in grave danger. When Haman demands that all the citizens of Shushan bow to him, Mordechai refuses. Seeking revenge for this disrespect, Haman vows to kill all the Jews, and convinces the King that the Jewish people are a threat and must be eliminated.
Mordechai, fearing for the fate of the Jewish people, sends an urgent message to Esther, urging her to notify the King to prevent this atrocity.
However, Esther expresses a strong hesitation to intervene. She writes to Mordechai, explaining that it would not be appropriate to initiate an audience with the King, and thus, cannot speak to him about this matter. Mordechai, however, shakes Esther from her complacency, saying, Do not imagine that you, of all the Jews, will escape with your life by being in the king’s palace On the contrary, if you keep silent in this crisis, relief and deliverance will come to the Jews from another quarter, while you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows, perhaps you have attained to royal position for just such a crisis. (Esther 4:13-14). Mordechai reminds Esther that this is not a moment to look away, especially when she is so uniquely poised to make an impact. His words lead to a turning point in Esther’s character. She goes from being a passive
observer of the world to a courageous leader, organizing the entire Jewish community in collective action and executing a plan to expose Haman to the King.
In another one of our ancient narratives, Moses too resists the call to lead. After running away from his life as a prince in Egypt, he lives a quiet life as a shepherd. One day, he is called by God who takes the form of a bush on fire. God explains to Moses that he will be the one to confront Pharaoh and redeem the Israelites from slavery. Moses, like Esther, hesitates. He questions God’s decision, saying Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and free the Israelites from Egypt? (Exodus 3:11) God insists, however, that he is the only one for this sacred task, and assures him that he will not be alone in this endeavor. Although it is with great trepidation, Moses steps into the role of moral leadership and demands the liberation of our ancestors.
We can identify with both the initial hesitation and the eventual heroism of Esther and Moses. Neither one of them saw themselves as leaders at first; they could not imagine that these moments of crisis required their involvement. Perhaps they felt inadequate, feeling that they could not possibly make a difference. Perhaps they believed that someone else would intervene. However, when they finally did answer the call, they made a profound impact. These stories are powerful reminders that, in times of challenge, each one of us has both the ability and the responsibility to act. May each of us find strength from our ancestors to follow in their footsteps, ready to respond to the world’s most challenging moments with courage and leadership.
Rabbi Ilana Schachter
Reflections from the President
Jeffrey Sklar jsklar@mysinai.org
Looking Back as We Spring Ahead
With spring almost upon us, we begin to notice the changing seasons and look ahead to our summer plans.
For me, along with our Board Executive Committee and professional staff, spring is also a time to begin planning for the year ahead at Temple Sinai. It gives us a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the past year — a year filled with a vibrant calendar of events that began with the High Holy Days.
Throughout the year, our programming reached every part of our community, including the ECC, Religious School, teen programs, Adult Engagement, and Religious Affairs. I had the pleasure of attending the ECC Chanukah Ball with our ECC families, and celebrating together at a special Friday night Shabbat service in their honor.
Our Religious School students enjoyed a memorable private basketball lesson and meet-and-greet with professional Israeli basketball player Ben Saraf of the Brooklyn Nets. Meanwhile, our Adult Engagement program continued its tradition of offering a rich array of events and inspiring speakers. Religious Affairs sustained its thoughtful series of Friday night Celebrating Jewish Peoplehood Shabbat services.
We also completed a renovation and upgrade of our playground and made important improvements to our building infrastructure — enhancements you may not see, but ones that strengthen our foundation.
While we are proud of all that has been accomplished, our work is far from finished. Our mission remains clear: to continue strengthening and enriching all that we do at Temple Sinai. That is the focus of our spring planning and the promise of the year ahead.
Jeffrey Sklar President
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17 • 7:30PM
Conversational Hebrew with Morah Galia Shahin
Assorted Wednesdays from 7:00-8:00pm
Learn more at mysinai.org/conversational hebrew25-26
EREZ KAGANOVITZ
THURSDAY, MARCH 5 • 7:00PM • ON ZOOM
Combining photojournalism with digital storytelling, Humans of Tel Aviv gives participants an intimate sense of what makes Tel Aviv and its diverse humans tick. Through intriguing, thought-provoking photographs and the stories behind them, the session puts a human face on this extraordinary city. You will gain a fresh perspective on the rich and remarkably diverse lives of Tel Avivians, showcasing Israel’s multiculturalism, vibrant civil society, and diversity. Erez will share insights drawn from photographing over 5,000 life stories, revealing what these experiences teach us all about Tel Aviv, Israel, and our shared humanity.
Photographer, native Tel Avivi, and TEDx speaker, Erez Kaganovitz is the human behind the Humans of Tel Aviv, Humans of Israel, Humans of the Holocaust, and Humans of October 7th projects. Through his work, Erez has helped bridge a cultural gap in society both within and outside of Israel. His compelling work brings understanding, emotional connection, and unity to many around the world.
Register at mysinai.org/humansoftelaviv
SUNDAY, APRIL 12
1:00PM SIMCHA ROOM
As perhaps the world’s most eloquent witness to the Holocaust, writer and Nobel Peace Prize winner Elie Wiesel’s legacy would seem to be firmly attached to the singular horror that he both experienced and spent his life memorializing—the murder of six million Jews at the hands of the Nazis. But this poetic and powerful documentary reveals that Wiesel’s astounding moral clarity and his outspokenness against the indifference that humans can display to suffering are deeply resonant in our own time.
Register at mysinai.org/soulonfire
Join
us for a
TOUR OF TEMPLE EMANU-EL
Temple Emanu-El is an architectural landmark, a storied synagogue, and the first Reform Jewish congregation in New York City
monday, march 23 • 1:30pm
Temple Emanu-El’s 180-year history mirrors the rise to prominence of immigrant Jews in New York City and beyond.
In visiting their beautiful sanctuary, you will learn about their amazing history, the rise of Reform Judaism, as well as see sparkling mosaics and stained glass windows. From their humble beginnings Downtown to their stunning 5th Avenue Sanctuary, their story is nothing short of magical, where warmth and majesty meet.
We will also be touring the exhibit,Temple Emanu-El at 180 at their Bernard Museum of Judaica.
As Temple Emanu-El celebrates the 180th anniversary of its founding, the Herbert & Eileen Bernard Museum of Judaica traces that evolution in a new exhibition of paintings, works on paper, sculpture, and ephemera drawn from its own holdings, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The New York Historical, and private collections.
Spots are limited for this free tour of Temple EmanU-El
Temple Emanu-El is located at 1 East 65th Street, New York, NY10065.
PLEASE NOTE: In the event the Sanctuary is needed on March 23 for a life-cycle event, Temple Emanu-El will notify us at least one day in advance.
Adrianne Rubin, Ph.D. arubin@mysinai.org
Shavuot - The Feast of Weeks
As we get ready to celebrate Shavuot in late spring, I want to share some examples of how artists throughout the centuries have depicted Moses receiving the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai. This subject is fundamental within the history of biblical art and, as such, is a perennial inspiration to artists who engage with the Bible.
Each work of art below evokes emotion through a different artistic medium and through varied use of color and drama (or lack thereof).
I would love to hear which work “speaks” to you!
May this Shavuot be filled with meaning and renewal
Adrianne Rubin
Lorenzo Ghiberti
Moses Receiving the Tablets of the Law (one of ten relief panels from The Gates of Paradise), 1425-52
Gilt bronze Baptistry, Florence
Ferdinand Bol
Moses Descends from Mount Sinai with the Ten Commandments, 1662 Oil on canvas
Royal Palace, Amsterdam
Marc Chagall
Moses Receives the Ten Commandments, 1966
Lithograph on paper Collection of The Jewish Museum
Moses and the Ten Commandments, c. 1896-1902
Gouache on board
Collection of The Jewish Museum
The Social Action Committee practices tikkun olam every day. Your donations and generosity provide physical and emotional help to those in need. Thank you very much for giving to our collection, to our drives, to our fund (mysinai.org/donate) and for participating in our monthly mitzvot
In March, Let’s Pass Along Passover Foods!
We have a long-standing relationship with Hatzilu Rescue Organization, which provides support to Jews experiencing job loss, health issues and other difficulties. Hatzilu is Hebrew for rescue or save.
KOSHER FOR PASSOVER FOODS
Please donate non-perishable Kosher for Passover foods (NO GLASS BOTTLES) including, but not limited to: matzo ball mix • kosher soups and mixes • kosher snacks • macaroons • canned vegetables • canned gefilte fish • canned sardines, tuna, salmon • matzah • other Kosher for Passover items
Kindly place your donations in the bins in the temple lobby.
In March, Let’s Help Children Who Need Our Help!
Sunrise Day Camp MESH Team plays an essential role over the summer in supporting the well-being of campers and staff. MESH stands for Mental, Emotional, and Social Health. The behavioral specialists work closely with counselors and leadership to ensure that every child feels safe, understood, and included. They provide strategies for positive behavior management, offer 1:1 support when needed, and help to create an environment where campers can thrive emotionally and socially. While these are necessary for any child, they are vital at Sunrise, where our children have the additional impact of a cancer diagnosis (either their own, or a sibling’s).
Please help by donating items that can help the MESH Team help others. Visit the SUNRISE DAY CAMP AMAZON WISH LIST at https://a.co/ahrogte.
In April, Let’s Take Care of the Little Ones!
Please donate much needed diapers and wipes and place them in our bins in the temple lobby. These will go to fulfill the Sid Jacobson Community Needs Bank.
DIAPERS & WIPES
In May, Let’s Fill Our Bins with Paper Towels!
Let’s continue to help TANS “Pack it Up” by supplying Hatzilu with household items. Temple Sinai will be donating 100 rolls of paper towels to this cause.
Please donate individually wrapped paper towels and place them in out bins in the temple lobby.
PAPER TOWELS
Check our upcoming monthly Social Action emails for more details on ways for you to help us help others.
The Social Action committee wishes you a very happy Passover: a celebration of freedom filled with wine, a side of potato kugel, and finished off with macaroons!
Give Tzedakah!
Your contributions to the Social Action Fund allow us to help more people in more ways. Please visit mysinai.org/donate.
If you would like to get more involved, reach out to us at socialaction@mysinai.org.
Deeds of giving are the very foundations of the world.
- Pirkei Avot (Mishna) 1:2
Welcome to
Temple Sinai’s diversity is our greatest strength. Interfaith families, people of color, single-parent families, and LGBTQ individuals and families all add joy, energy, and strength to our great community. We celebrate the Torah’s teaching that all are created in God’s image, and we embrace all who seek a vibrant, sacred Jewish community.
- Rabbi Michael White
Kulanu, which means All of Us, strives to make all individuals feel comfortable in our congregation. We provide a welcoming atmosphere and support to the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning members of the congregation and to their families and friends. Kulanu reaches out to the Jewish LGBTQ community at large and welcomes their membership in our temple.
Members of our committee continue to meet with congregants who have personal questions and concerns that they would like to discuss. Anyone who would like to set up a meeting may do so by calling the temple office, and a committee member will respond. Contact us by email at templeoffice@mysinai.org and put Kulanu in the subject line or call Temple Sinai at 516.621.6800.
We look forward to meeting you at Pride Shabbat on June 12.
BROTHERHOOD
Brotherhood is about connection. We see ourselves not simply as a group that hosts events, but as a vibrant, relational force within the temple, one that invites men of all ages to show up, participate, learn, serve, and belong. Our approach emphasizes depth before breadth, relationships over headcount, and enthusiastic partnership with clergy, staff, and lay leadership. Through ritual, learning, service, and shared experience, we aim to strengthen individual lives while enriching the vitality of the entire congregation. We’re excited to continue nurturing these connections with a thoughtful and well-balanced slate of programs in the months ahead.
We invite you to join us!
Gabe Markiz, Brotherhood President
JEWISH JEOPARDY!
and Bagel Breakfast
Sunday,
March 15
Originally scheduled for January, this lively and interactive program promises fun, learning, and plenty of laughter. Designed as an intergenerational event, it’s a great opportunity for the whole congregation to connect in a joyful and engaging way.
AntiqueS ROADSHOW & Flea Market Event
SUNDAY, MAY 3
This unique event invites temple members to have meaningful objects assessed by a professional appraiser, and to have the opportunity to find new homes for their antiques and tchotkes!
Pre-Passover
Ben’s Deli Night
Monday, March 24
A beloved annual tradition! We’ll gather for great food and meaningful conversation, joined by Rabbi Schachter, who will share timely and inspiring Torah as we prepare for Passover.
SCoTCH and SACRED TEXT
with Rabbi Michael White
Tuesday, May 11
Our quarterly gathering continues with thoughtful learning, rich discussion, and warm camaraderie.
Ellis Island and the Museum of Immigration Tour
Sunday, May 31
We’ll close out the spring with a powerful and meaningful visit to Ellis Island, exploring the stories of immigration that are so central to our collective Jewish journey.
UPCOMING BROTHERHOOD MONTHLY MEETINGS
Wednesdays at 7:30pm • in the Library March 11 • April 8 • June 10
Friend of a Friend has been busy with many events and activities that have brought our members together to celebrate, learn, and help others!
Celebrating Jewish Women in America!
Building on 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 – we had a very special breakfast where we learned about women whose leadership, philanthropy, entrepreneurship and much more was inspired by this year’s events! We will be learning about more women at the next event in March, which will be another breakfast, this time immediately following our March FOF meeting. We hope you are there to join us!
Chanukah Luncheon
Once again, we celebrated Chanukah at one of our most beloved annual events - our Chanukah luncheon at Mims! Our hosts and organizers, FOF members Barbara Blatte and Amy Braunstein, were the superstars behind this incredible event, which brought together more than 60 members, our clergy, and our temple leadership. Rabbi White shared meaningful words of Torah, Cantor Elena led us in song and prayer, and many of our temple leaders, including FOF members and our president, Jeff Sklar, shared holiday inspiration and gratitude. Beautiful Chanukah decorations, along with a delicious three-course meal that included a decadent dessert plate, made the day feel very special! Our festive Chanukah grab bag meant everyone left with a gift, too!
Chanukah Events with Temple Sinai’s Religious School
Our Religious School students participated in an incredible Chanukah Boutique! Thanks to the hard work and discerning eye of Religious School Committee Co-Chair, Amy Zuflacht, the Chanukah Boutique was filled with very special gifts for everyone. Dedicated and tireless Friend of a Friend members and Religious School parents helped students find special gifts for friends and family, then made sure each present was wrapped beautifully so that the students were ready for their holiday celebrations!
Our Latke Parties filled Temple Sinai with the inviting aroma of Chanukah, as Friend of a Friend members and Religious School parents once again worked together to continue this tradition. Together, we served 47 dozen latkes to the Religious School students, ECC families, and teens! Everyone enjoyed this wonderful holiday treat!
Judaica Sale
Many of us remember when Temple Sinai was home to a very special and much-loved Judaica store, run by FOF founding member Lori Yaspan. Temple Sinai bought all items from the store, and, over the years, many items were sold but a plethora of items remained. These were stored in the temple and included mezzuzot, menorahs, jewelry, children’s books and toys, and much more. Thanks to the hard work of FOF members Donna Liebowitz, Leslie Wollin, and Lynn Fishkind, along with an extended committee of FOF volunteers, all of the remaining Judaica from the former store was carefully inventoried, displayed, and sold. Over two weeks, FOF members ran our lobby Judaica Sale to help valuable and precious items find their way into people’s homes at a significant discount. All money raised through the Judaica Sale was paid to the temple and remaining items will be donated. This was a tremendous success and thanks to all who participated!
Challah Bake
A family-friendly Intergenerational Challah Bake was co-hosted by FOF and the Religious School Committee, bringing together children and adults of all ages. We learned to bake challah with the Challah Queen, Tracy Zimmerman, who wove stories of challah-baking history and the mental health benefits of this delicious tradition. It was a fun and tasty evening as we sampled Oreo and traditional challah, while preparing our own dough to bake at home!
Join us for upcoming events!
So many incredible events and activities are planned. Explore the events listed below and join us to be part of this supportive and fun community!
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!
FOF Monthly Meetings first Friday of the month @ 9:30am
Breakfast in the Library Friday, March 6 @ 9:30am
Games Day Friday, March 13 9:30am-2:30pm
Bingo on ZOOM!
Tuesday, March 17 @ 6:30pm
FOF Shabbat Service
Friday, May 1 @ 6:30pm
Intergenerational Women’s Seder Wednesday, March 25 @ 6:30pm
Wine, Women, & Wisdom Wednesday, May 20
Lunch & Learn with Cantor Elena Thursdays, April 16 & 22 @ 11:30am
Needlepoint
Date & Time TBA
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
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 12:30-2:00pm: March 4 • March 16 • April 15 • May 6 • May 18 • June 3 • June 15
For more information, contact Michelle Golden at 516.650.6690 or msgolden@optonline.net
The Temple Sinai of Roslyn Family invites the entire community to join us for
Sharing Shabbat
Led by Cantors Sergei & Elena Schwartz and Robin Gossett
2yearsold to 3rdgrade with K-2 milestone service
Grandparents stories & memories
Friday, March 27, 2026
Drop-Off (for ages 3 & up)
Twos with a grown-up 4:15pm
Fun, animated, and enriching program for children and grown-ups! 5:00pm
Celebrate the K-2 Torah Explorers during their Milestone Shabbat with music, singing, laughing, and dancing in the Sanctuary! Family dinner to follow the service in the Simcha Room!
RSVP at mysinai.org/sharingshabbat
Questions? Contact Debra at dhollander@mysinai.org All are welcome! FREE!
9 6th Grade Holocaust & Jewish Resistance Class 4:15-6:00pm
10 1st & 2nd Grade Milestone Practice
4:30-5:00pm
12 5th Grade BMitzvah Family Education Program
6:00-7:00pm
16 Cooking with Morah Paula 4:00-6:00pm
16 K-2 Milestone Practice 4:30-5:00pm
16 6th Grade Holocaust & Jewish Resistance
Class 4:15-6:00pm
17 1st & 2nd Grade Milestone Practice
4:30-5:00pm
18 School Closed - Professional Development
22 6th Grade Trip - Museum of Jewish Heritage 11:15am
23 Last 6th Grade Holocaust & Jewish Resistance Class 4:15-6:00pm
23 K-2 Milestone Practice 4:30-5:00pm
23 Last Monday Mitzvah Makers: Hebrew Prayer Boot Camp 6:30-7:00pm
Class 7:00-8:00pm
24 1st & 2nd Grade Milestone Practice 4:30-5:00pm
24 Last Tuesday Mitzvah Makers: Hebrew Prayer Boot Camp 6:30-7:00pm Class 7:00-8:00pm
27 Grandparents Sharing Shabbat 4:15-6:00pm
27 K-2 Milestone Service 5:00-5:30pm Dinner 5:30pm
31 School Closed - Passover Recess MAY 2026
4 Last Day of School - Monday Students 4:00-6:00pm
5 Last Day of School - Tuesday Students 4:00-6:00pm
6 Last Day of School - Wednesday Students 4:00-6:00pm
Purim
Mazel tov to our B’nei Mitzvah
Samuel Burak
March 7
Parents: Laura & Jarett Burak
Siblings: Lola-15
Grandparents:
Gloria Wuhl
Anna & Eddie Burak
School: Roslyn Middle School - 7th Grade
Parsha: Ki Tisa
Brody Schifrin
March 14
Parents: Michele & Jonathan Schifrin
Siblings: Hunter-15
Grandparents:
Susan & Kenny Kasnett
Ellen & the late Bruce Schifrin
School: Roslyn Middle School - 7th grade
Parsha: Vayakhel
Jake Mashaal
April 18
Parents: Jill & Steven Mashaal
Siblings: Dylan-14, Brooke-9
Grandparents:
Nava & Michael Slavin
Edna & Ezra Mashaal
School: Roslyn Middle School - 7th Grade
Parsha: Metzora
Jack Bedrick
March 7
Parents: Kim & Jon Bedrick
Siblings: Sloane-9
Grandparents:
Kathy & Dennis Lazar
Adele & James Bedrick
School: Roslyn Middle School - 7th Grade
Parsha: Vayakhel
Scarlett Lalin
March 14
Parents: Stephanie & Matthew Lalin
Siblings: Mason-10
Grandparents:
Lori Newman
Jeff Sheikowitz
Carol & Bill Lalin
School: Roslyn Middle School - 7th grade
Parsha: Vayikra
Matthew Neale
April 25
Parents: Liz & Jeff Neale
Siblings: Hailey-15
Grandparents:
Toni & the late Henry Wiener
Carole & Richard Neale
School: Roslyn Middle School - 7th grade
Parsha: Kedoshim
Micah Weinstock
May 2
Parents: Jara & Andrew Weinstock
Siblings: Amelia-14, Zygi-10
Grandparents:
Barna & Joel Rosen
Carol & Stanley Weinstock
School: Cold Spring Harbor Jr. High - 7th grade
Parsha: Emor
Stella Lenson
May 30
Parents: Gail & Barry Lenson
Siblings: Lanie-15
Grandparents:
Larisa & Gary Civins
Renee & Jack Lenson
School: Roslyn Middle School - 7th grade
Parsha: Naso
Harper Kwiat
May 9
Parents: Jamie & Cory Kwiat
Siblings: Chase-14, Ryder-11
Grandparents:
Denise & Elliott Parr
Fern & Lowell Kwiat
School: Roslyn Middle School - 7th grade
Parsha: Bechukotai
Allie Poplock
May 16
Parents: Rachel & Raphael Poplock
Siblings: Jordana-15
Grandparents:
Andrew Morganstern
School: Roslyn Middle School - 7th grade
Parsha: Bamidbar
Dina’s Teen Talk
Dina Kwasnicki dkwasnicki@mysinai.org
Even When It’s Cold, Youth & Teen Programs are HOT!
It may have been cold, but it was a VERY fun winter in the Youth & Teen Department, and we have SO much to look forward to this spring!
THIS YEAR BY THE NUMBERS
There’s never been a better time to be a teen at Temple Sinai!
active teens in Sinai programs coming in and out of our building as often as twice a week or just once a month!
an additional
eighth and ninth graders headed on our famed New Orleans trip later this month!
came out for one-off events like High Holy Days Volunteering, Pre-Midterm Puppies & Challah Shabbat, Rise Against Hunger and MORE! teens
A look back at winter...
Our winter was a blast from Thanksgiving Cooking for a Cause, to Pre-Midterm Puppies & Challah Shabbat, Havdalah for Hunger, local work with the JCC Community Needs Bank, and more!
And here’s a look at what’s ahead this spring...
• Let’s Get GLOWING! Purim is going to be BRIGHT with a glow-in-the-dark theme, Silent Disco and more!
• We’re honoring our LARGEST active senior class this year and we couldn’t be prouder of this incredible group of teens who have been active in our programming for two or more years through high school! Join us to celebrate them and all of our teens at SORTY Shabbat on April 24 at 6:30pm.
Until then, a HUGE MAZEL TOV to our beloved Seniors, the
Joshua Berger son of Lauryn & Michael Berger
Adam Cohen son of Jennifer & Brian Cohen
Spencer Gerson son of Susan & Colin Gerson
Riley Green daughter of Karin & Howard Green
Jake Greenberg son of Allison & Jonathan Greenberg
Asher Hirsch son of Diane & Leonard Hirsch
Marli Jacobson daughter of Shari & Jeffrey Jacobson
Olivia Jacobson daughter of Shari & Jeffrey Jacobson
Gavin Leipzig son of Inna & David Leipzig
Daniel Levine son of Kimberly & David Levine
Eliza Liebowitz daughter of Donna & Robert Liebowitz
Maxwell Lippmann son of Emilie & Richard Lippmann
Alex Newman son of Stacey & Seth Newman
Annabel Nussbaum daughter of Emily & Scott Nussbaum
Jordan Roth son of Lindsay & Jarrett Roth
Max Saraf son of Stacy & David Saraf
Sam Schiavo son of Monelle & Michael Schiavo
Kara Shinder daughter of Lauren & Roman Shinder
Jordan Siegel son of Gail & Aaron Siegel
Sydney Spier daughter of Kelly & Laurence Spier
Sidney Steir daughter of Carrie & Marc Stier
Ian Szerencsy son of Tammy & Michael Szerencsy
Zachary Szerencsy son of Tammy & Michael Szerencsy
• We’ll honor our incredible Confirmation Students on May 17th – Shavuot, - marking the completion of a powerful year in conversation together. These thoughtful teens joined out Rabbis each Sunday morning this year to discuss important issues through a Jewish lens. In the process, they have begun to truly shape and understand their own Jewish identities as they race toward adulthood and reaffirm their commitment to the Jewish people. During this beautiful holiday service, they will have shared their own Torah, their perspective on these important issues.
Join me in commending the 2026 Confirmation Class!
Zach Arlow son of Adrianne Rubin & Noah Arlow
Audrey Bergman daughter of Keri & Jeremy Bergman
Lola Burak daughter of Laura & Jarett Burak
Zachary Goldberg son of Gabrielle & Adam Goldberg
Reese Grotas daughter of Jana & Aaron Grotas
Ava Klein daughter of Gabrielle & Joshua Klein
Hunter Schifrin daughter of Michele & Jonathan Schifrin
The latest from Junior Youth Group
Kameron Steir son of Carrie & Marc Steir
Sammi Russ daughter of Sharon & Adam Russ
Lila Zarin daughter of Jill & David Zarin
We’ve had a BLAST this winter with activities such as JCREW (boys group) football and video game nights, Rosh Hodesh (girls group) tzedakah box making and New Year’s Jewish value vision boards, and of course JORTY (co-ed) Turkey Nailed It Cake Challenge, and Chanukah Paint Party!
Caring Commi
Bonnie & Michael Koblenz upon the birth of their grandson Oliver Jack Kaplan
Lisa & Robert Seader upon the birth of their grandson Owen Michael Seader
Jill & Richard Barry upon the birth of their granddaughter Tess Juliette Cantor
Paula & Robert Appel upon the birth of their grandson, Jax Riley Kelman, granddaughter Josie Blair Mansberg.
Cindy & Robert Kaplan upon the birth of their grandson Milo Mac Kaplan
Laurel & David Nachman upon the birth of their granddaughter Lewison Wythe Hazel Phillips
Kelly & Jeff Sklar upon the birth of their granddaughter Ila Drew Sklar
Karen Greenbaum upon the birth of her granddaughter Marni Blake Greenbaum
Rachelle Katz on the loss of her mother Eileen Bronstein
Howard Weisler on the loss of his brother Barry Weisler
Marcia Doff on the loss of her husband Michael Doff
Abbie Laskey on the loss of her brother Elliott Stanley Rothstein
Jared Zuflacht on the loss of his father Robert Zuflacht
Jordan Rosenbaum on the loss of his father Rabbi Jay Rosenbaum
Janice Roth on the loss of her husband Steven Roth
Mary Marlowe on the loss of her husband Martin Marlowe
Barbara Klein on the loss of her husband Dr. Sanford Klein
David Diamond on the loss of his wife Susan Diamond
Jodi Imperato on the loss of her mother Arlene Cohen
with deepest sympathy
We record with sorrow the death of these temple members
Michael Doff
Martin Marlowe
Judith Myra Grossberg
Dr. Sanford Klein
Susan Diamond
With deepest sympathy to their families; May their memories be for a blessing.
A donation to any of the clergy discretionary funds requires a separate check.
For each of these donations, please make your check payable to Temple Sinai of Roslyn with the specific discretionary fund written in the check memo line:
Rabbi Michael White’s Discretionary Fund
Cantor Sergei Schwartz’s Discretionary Fund
Cantor-Educator Elena Schwartz’s Discretionary Fund
Rabbi Ilana Schachter’s Discretionary Fund
Donations to any other funds can be combined in one check made payable to Temple Sinai of Roslyn. Please remember that if you use a company or similar type check, your name should appear on the check so we can properly credit your account.
9:30am Saturday Morning Minyan on ZOOM 10:30am Bar Mitzvah ServiceSam Burak 6:00pm Havdalah Bar Mitzvah ServiceJack Bedrick
9:30am Friend of a Friend Monthly Meeting in the Library 10:30am Friend of a Friend Semiquincentennial Learning About Jewish Women 6:30pm Shabbat Service/ Birthday & Anniversary Blessings
7:00pm Adult Engagment: Erez Kaganovitz program on ZOOM
Stitches
6:30pm Purim Shpiel: The Megillah According to Mother Goose 4:00pm Purim Event for ECC-6th Grades 5:30pm Megillah Reading and 3rd & 4th Grade Milestone in the Sanctuary Religious school closed PURIM EREV PURIM ECC CLOSED
9:30am Saturday Morning Torah Studyin person and on ZOOM 10:30am Bar Mitzvah ServiceBrody Schifrin 6:00pm Havdalah Bat Mitzvah ServiceScarlett Lalin
10:30am Friend of a Friend Games Day 6:30pm Shabbat Service/ Celebrating Jewish Peoplehood with Dr. Grigoriy Mashkevich
7:00pm Tales of the Jewish Spirit with Rabbi Ilana Schachter on ZOOM
7:30pm Brotherhood Monthly Meeting in the Library
7:30pm Board of Trustees Meeting
TEENS’ NOLA TRIP
TEENS’ NOLA TRIP
9:30am Shabbat Body & Soul Yoga with Sharon Epstein in the Simcha Room
6:30pm Shabbat Service/Guest Speaker: Rabbi Ofek Meir 9:30am Shabbat Body & SoulMeditation with Rabbi Schachter on ZOOM
9:30am Friend of a Friend Monthly Meeting in the Library 4:15pm Grandparent’s Sharing Shabbat 6:30pm Shabbat Service
DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME STARTS Religious school closed
10:00am Jewish Jeopardy! in the Simcha Room
7:00pm Conversational Hebrew in the Library
TEENS’ NOLA TRIP
TEENS’ NOLA TRIP
7:00pm Friend of a Friend Women’s Intergenerational Seder
6:30pm Brotherhood Pre-
7:00pm Tales of the Jewish Spirit with Rabbi Ilana Schachter on ZOOM SPRING BREAK Religious school closed
Dates and times are current as of FEBRUARY 15, 2026, and are subject to change. Online calendars will be updated on a regular basis; please visit our website at
APRIL 2026
PASSOVER DAY #3 SPRING BREAK
9:30am Saturday Morning Torah Studyin person and on ZOOM
PASSOVER DAY #2
ECC CLOSED Religious school closed SPRING BREAK
9:30am Saturday Morning Minyan on ZOOM 6:30pm Shabbat Service
PASSOVER NIGHT #2
ECC CLOSED Religious school closed OFFICES CLOSED SPRING BREAK 5:30pm Second Night Seder in the Ballroom
PASSOVER NIGHT #1
ECC CLOSED Religious school closed OFFICES CLOSE AT 1:00PM SPRING BREAK
PASSOVER DAY #8
PASSOVER DAY #7
ECC CLOSED Religious school closed OFFICES CLOSED SPRING BREAK
9:30am Shabbat Body & Soul Meditation with Rabbi Schachter on ZOOM 10:30am Bar Mitzvah ServiceJake Mashaal
9:30am Shabbat Body & SoulYoga with Sharon Epstein 10:30am Bar Mitzvah ServiceMatthew Neale 6:30pm Shabbat Service
12:30pm Sinai Stitches in the Library 7:00pm Conversational Hebrew in the Library 7:30pm Brotherhood Monthly Meeting in the Library 6:30pm Shabbat Service/SORTY & Teen Shabbat 6:30pm Shabbat Service/ Birthday & Anniversary Blessings
PASSOVER DAY #6
ECC CLOSED Religious school closed SPRING BREAK
ECC CLOSED Religious school closed SPRING BREAK
PASSOVER DAY #5
ECC CLOSED Religious school closed SPRING BREAK
ECC CLOSED Religious school closed SPRING BREAK SPRING BREAK SPRING BREAK
11:30am Friend of a Friend Lunch & Learn with Cantor Elena Schwartz
6:30pm Yizkor Service in the Sanctuary 7:30pm Board of Trustees Meeting YOM HA’ZIKARON YOM HA’ATZMAUT
7:00pm Tales of the Jewish Spirit with Rabbi Ilana Schachter on ZOOM
11:30am Friend of a Friend Lunch & Learn with Cantor Elena Schwartz 7:00pm Conversational Hebrew in the Library
PASSOVER DAY #4 SPRING BREAK
EASTER SUNDAY
1:00pm Sinai Cinema presents Soul on Fire
Dates and times are current as of FEBRUARY 15, 2026, and are subject to change. Online calendars will be updated on a regular basis; please visit our website at mysinai.org for all other program and event information.
9:30am Saturday Morning Minyan on ZOOM 6:30pm Shabbat Service 9:30am Saturday Morning Torah Studyin person and on ZOOM 10:30am Bat Mitzvah ServiceHarper Kwiat 12:30pm Sinai Stitches in the Library 7:00pm Conversational Hebrew in the Library 6:30pm Shabbat Service/ Yikor Service 9:30am Friend of a Friend Monthly Meeting 6:30pm Shabbat Service/ Birthday & Anniversary Blessings
7:00pm Tales of the Jewish Spirit with Rabbi Ilana Schachter on ZOOM Lag B’Omer
Dates and times are current as of FEBRUARY 15, 2026, and are subject to change. Online calendars will be updated on a regular basis; please visit our website at mysinai.org for all other program and event information. 9:30am Saturday Morning Minyan on ZOOM 10:30am Bat Mitzvah ServiceMicah Weinstock
MOTHER’S DAY
9:30am Shabbat Body & SoulYoga with Sharon Epstein 7:00pm Havdalah Bat Mitzvah ServiceAllie Poplock
6:30pm Shabbat Service/Blessing for Israel Trip Participants
7:00pm Conversational Hebrew in the Library 7:00pm Friend of a Friend Wine, Women, & Wisdom (o site) Time TBD Antiques RoadshowStyle Storytelling Event 6:30pm Confirmation Service & Cocktail Reception 12:30pm Sinai Stitches in the Library SHAVUOT OFFICES CLOSE AT 1:00PM ECC CLOSED OFFICES CLOSED
10:30am Bat Mitzvah ServiceStella Lenson 11:00am Shabbat Body & SoulWalk with Rabbi Schachter 6:30pm Shabbat Service
7:30pm Board of Trustees Meeting
CONGREGATIONAL TRIP TO ISRAEL BEGINS MEMORIAL DAY ECC CLOSED BUILDING CLOSED
Temple Sinai of Roslyn
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
Frank D’Ambrosio
Secretary
Ginny Jordan
Legal Counsel
Charles Weiss
Executive Director
Lee Mirrer lmirrer@mysinai.org
Director of Operations & Technology
Heather Silva hmurray@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
