SEPTEMBER 2017

ELUL/TISHREI 5777/5778 WE WELCOME MIRI BERNOVSKY-TIBOR

NUMBER 1 AACS SHLICHA
BY CAROL BACKMAN
THE BULLETIN
Miri Bernovsky, Agudas Achims shlicha, (emissary from Israel) was
born in St. Petersburg, Russia. When she was three, her family immigrated to
Israel as part of the Russian Aliyah movement of the early 1990s. We
settled in Tel Aviv, which is where I lived with my family until enlisting in
the military at the age of 18, she adds.
I grew up in a family where both Hebrew and Russian were spoken at
home, says Miri. Her mother is a speech therapist who specializes in autism,
and her father is an engineer for Israels aerospace industry. Miri has a
younger sister who currently serves in the Israeli Air Force.
Miri earned a B.A. in social work from the Hebrew University of Jerusa-
lem, and she completed her M.A. in social work at Tel Aviv University this
past summer. If you speak or write to Miri, you will notice that her English is
excellent. My grandma was an English teacher in Russia, and she used to
talk to me in English. I also get some help from my husband, Amir, a
journalist, she explains.
Miri has been married since June 2016 to Amir, the Washington corre-
spondent for Haaretz, a leading Israeli newspaper. When Amir received a
AGUDAS ACHIM three-year job offer in Washington, D.C., Miri decided to apply to the Jewish
Agency for Shlichut and was accepted for an assignment in Northern Virgin-
CONGREGATION ia. We chose Agudas Achim because I liked the idea of becoming part of a
thriving, local community, notes Miri. She says she is excited to be the first
ever Shlicha at Agudas Achim Congregation.
During her service in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), Miri was a teacher
and commander at Nativ, the unit in charge of assisting soldiers who go through
Jewish conversion inside the military. This two-year period left a strong impact
on me, and I always knew that at some point in my life, I would like to once
again, engage in issues of Jewish education and identity, says Miri.
For the last three years, Miri has worked with at-risk children and foster
families in Israel. In her last job, Miri was in charge of more than two dozen
families, including many Bedouins in the Negev area.
(Continued on page 3)

ROSH HASHANAH YOM KIPPUR

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
Mincha/Mariv......................6:30 p.m.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 21
Shacharit................................8:30 a.m.
Tashlich.................................5:30 p.m.
(Meet in the synagogue parking lot)
Mincha/Mariv......................6:30 p.m.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 22
Shacharit................................8:30 a.m.
Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat.....6:30 p.m.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 29
Mincha...................................6:15 p.m.
Kol Nidre...............................6:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30
Shacharit................................9:00 a.m.
Yizkor....................................2:00 p.m.
Mincha/Neilah.......................5:00 p.m.
Break the Fast...........approx. 7:35 p.m.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 24
King David Cemetery..........11:00 a.m.
2908 Valley Drive Agudas Achim Cemetery......1:00 p.m.
Alexandria, V
A 2 2302
 SCHEDULE OF SERVICES
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 1
Candlelighting.......................7:20 p.m.
Shehecheyanu Service...........6:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 2
Shabbat Services....................9:30 a.m.
Mincha following Kiddush
Havdalah Time......................8:17 p.m.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 8
Candlelighting.......................7:09 p.m.
Erev Shabbat Service.............6:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9
Shabbat Services....................9:30 a.m.
Mincha following Kiddush
Havdalah Time......................8:06 p.m.
BAR MITZVAH OF ELI GIL BARDASH
ELI BEN DOV SHOLOM VDAPHNA
PARASHAT KI TAVO
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 15
Candlelighting.......................6:58 p.m.
Erev Shabbat Service.............6:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16
Shabbat Services....................9:30 a.m.
Mincha following Kiddush
Havdalah Time......................7:54 p.m.
Leil Selichot..........................9:00 p.m.
BAR MITZVAH OF MICHAEL WAGNER
MIKHAEL ASHER BEN URI AHRON
PARSHAT NITZVAM-VAYELECH
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
EREV ROSH HASHANAH
Candlelighting.......................6:50 p.m.
Mincha/Mariv......................6:30 p.m.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 21
ROSH HASHANAH DAY 1
Shacharit................................8:30 a.m.
Tashlich.................................5:30 p.m.
Mincha/Mariv......................6:30 p.m.
Candlelighting After..............7:46 p.m.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 22
ROSH HASHANAH DAY 2
Shacharit................................8:30 a.m.
Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat.....6:30 p.m.
Candlelighting.......................6:47 p.m.
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 23
SHABBAT SHUVAH
Shabbat Services....................9:30 a.m.
Mincha following Kiddush
Havdalah Time......................7:43 p.m.
SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 24
King David Cemetery..........11:00 a.m.
Adguas Achim Cemetery......1:00 p.m.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 29
KOL NIDRE
Candlelighting.......................6:36 p.m.
Mincha...................................6:15 p.m.
Kol Nidre...............................6:30 p.m.
(Continued on page 3)
AGUDAS ACHIM CONGREGATION
RABBIS
MESSAGE
WELCOMING OUR SHLICHA MIRI BERNOVSKY-TIBON
As a community, we believe that Israel is the core of our Jewish narrative and
Jewish identity. We understand that the future of our congregation is forever
connected to our engagement with the State of Israel. We affirm the central Jewish
tenet of Ahavat Yisrael love of Israel and our commitment to a meaningful
relationship with both the state and its people.
We stand collectively in awe at a nation that has brought exiles together from
the four corners of the earth, championed agricultural achievements on a global
scale, and has fashioned astounding success and world leadership in high-tech. In
70 years, Israel has evolved from a besieged fledgling nation defending its very
existence to a thriving beacon of light that radiates the renewal of Jewish culture
with our destiny to be a free people in our own nation on our ancestral land.
We also believe that encountering the realities of Israel is vital. In order to
embrace, discern, and help, we must educate ourselves and explore our connection
with Israel. By fostering relationships with the people of Israel who engage in the
sacred task of building the nation, we can create personal connections, gain unique
personal insights, and develop an individual appreciation for the nuances of a
complex society.
To ensure that Israel has a significant and constant presence at AAC, we are
thrilled to welcome Miri Bernovsky-Tibon and her husband Amir into our
community. In partnership with the Federation of Greater Washington, the AAC
Endowment Fund, and generous members of our community, Miri will be the first
shlicha (Israel Emissary) to work in our congregation. Miri will seek to create a
living connection for our synagogue community to the land, people, and culture of
the State of Israel. There will be many opportunities to learn from and engage with
Miri, but I would like to highlight just a few: lectures and classes on aspects of
Israeli society; current events and coffee; Conversational Hebrew classes; Israel
Film Series; Israel Book Club; engaging our youth in the Preschool, Religious
School, and ATID; community-wide celebrations for Yom Haatzmaut and other
holidays; and opportunities to host Miri and Amir in your home for Shabbat.
Our first opportunity to formally welcome Miri and Amir will be at our
membership barbecue on September 3.
To learn more about Miri and our process of selecting a shlicha, see the front
page for her community profile and page 14 for an update from our Endowment
Committee.
Everyone is invited to reach out to Miri at miribernovsky@agudasachim-
va.org. She would love to talk with you, meet you for coffee, and bring a slice of
Israel into your home.
THE MEMBERSHIP BARBECUE
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 3
4:30 NEW MEMBER COCKTAIL HOUR FOLLOWED BY 5:30 DINNER
Music by Ein Lanu Zman
Judaica Shop Open
Visit the AAC website to sign up to volunteer
PAGE 2
 SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30
YOM KIPPUR
Shacharit................................9:00 a.m.
PRESIDENTS MESSAGE Yizkor....................................2:00 p.m.
Mincha/Neilah.......................5:00 p.m.
Kenneth Labowitz Havdallah Time.....................7:32 p.m.
Break the Fast...........approx. 7:35 p.m.
MINYAN SCHEDULE
I should have some deeply meaningful words here about reflection, renewal, the
High Holidays, and all that. I dont. What I have is some gratitude and some Mornings................................7:30 a.m.
Monday through Friday
practical advice. Evenings................................7:50 p.m.
Sunday through Thursday
Joe and Nancy Schifrin were long-time members of the Congregation. It Sundays and Federal
happens that they sat near where Patti and I sit on Saturday mornings, loyal Holidays.............................9:00 a.m.
members of that particular shul neighborhood. They were quiet, not drawing
attention to themselves, but friendly and open and accepting to those of us with
small children who were not always perfect in their synagogue conduct. MIRI BERNOVSKY-TIBOR
(Continued from front page)
Agudas Achim meant a great deal to them. Their family was struck with
sadness and challenges, leading Nancy and Joe to take on the responsibility of In order to become a shlicha, Miri
raising their grandchildren. Lou and Jackie became regulars at services and the went through a six-month long process
religious school as well, and it was a pleasure to see them together a family. of interviews and tests followed by a
two-week professional training course
More tough times came to Joe and Nancy with the death of Jackie far too young.
in Jerusalem. Her training included in-
Through all of the difficulties they experienced, they found comfort in their
tense learning about Jews in the Diaspo-
congregation, their synagogue family.
ra, religious pluralism, the U.S.-Israel
Nancy and Joe are both gone now, and the Congregation has recently learned relationship, and other issues important
that they provided generous gifts to us in their estates. Their grandson Lou will be to her work.
here for the High Holidays, sitting in his grandparents seats in their old
Miris goal as a shlicha is to serve
neighborhood, over by the windows on the left side facing the bimah. While he
as a bridge between the Northern Vir-
lives in Los Angeles, he considers Agudas Achim his congregation as did Joe and
ginia community and Israel. I will be
Nancy. It will be a good thing to see Lou and to thank him for the generosity of his
working with all age groups and many
grandparents, not only in their financial contributions but as part of the soul of the
social groups to promote Israeli educa-
Agudas Achim.
tion, answer questions about life in Isra-
There is no good way to transition from the Schifrins to this next part, but here el, and expose people to interesting
goes: the New Year brings with it dues statements and the Kol Nidre appeal. Here aspects of Israeli society, culture, and
are two suggestions to consider: the stock market is at an all time high, which might history, she explains. Miri emphasizes
mean that there are stock holdings and other assets for you that have appreciated. she is not a representative or an employ-
Your dues and appeal pledges can be paid with appreciated stock with no additional ee of the Israeli government. Her affili-
fees to you or the Congregation. Call the office for the details for the transfer from ation is with the Jewish Agency to
your account to ours. create a strong partnership between Is-
Finally, Congress has made permanent the rule that gives those of us age 70 rael and other world communities.
and older the ability to use retirement account funds to make charitable During her relaxation time, Miris
contributions. You can use IRA money to pay your dues and pledges (and any other plans include hiking, reading, dancing,
gift you wish to make to the Congregation) tax- and penalty-free. and gardening. She and Amir are both
We need each other, for support and for caring. dog lovers, and they enjoy cooking Is-
raeli meals on weekends. They also hope
LShanah Tovah Tikateivu. Gavar chatimah tovah. to explore many nature trails and biking
routes, especially in the Northern Virgin-
HELP US RAISE THE YOUNG FAMILY PROGRAMMING TENT ia area. One challenge Miri admits about
FOR THE HIGH HOLIDAYS living here is dealing with some foods in
Sunday, September 17 | 9:30 a.m. the American diet. I have had a hard
We need as many hands as possible to help raise the time during past visits to America get-
tent for the high holidays and to help set up chairs in the ting used to the large amounts of sugar in
Lainof Social Hall. To sign up or for more information, food, observes Miri.
please contact Diana Weil (dweil@agudasachim-va.org) Something Miri would like to share
with Americans is that Israel is a diverse
(Continued on page 8)

SEPTEMBER 2017 PAGE 3

 MENS CLUB MENSCHENINGS
By Elliot Parkin, Mens Club President
MAH KOREH - WHATS HAPPENING IN
THE EDUCATION AND YOUTH DEPARTMENT
Mens Club continues to provide
Chaya Silver
service to the Agudas Achim community.
Youth/Education Director
Harvey Stoler organized the volunteers to
grill and serve food at the Congregations September and October are typically a busy time of year. It is back to school
annual barbecue on September 3. We time, the end of vacation time, and back to work time. In the middle of it all, we are
also made a donation to the Congregation asked to stop, reflect on our lives, and make necessary course adjustments to keep us
for the purchase of the new grills used by on track. The season may seem like an intrusion, but the fall holiday cycle is one of
Harveys grill masters. the greatest gifts of our tradition. During this time, we engage in teshuva, which is
Doc Shantz is coordinating the often translated as repentance, but is more accurately translated as return. During the
ushers for the High Holidays. If you Jewish month of Tishrei, we can meditate on who we are (tefilah prayer), we can
havent volunteered yet, you can sign return to the best version of ourselves (teshuva return), and we can take action to
up for a slot by contacting Doc at make changes (tzedakah acts of charity) to keep us on the right road.
docgolf1@verizon.net. Thank you Harvey Who is the best self we hope to return to? We are given the fall holidays to
and Doc for your dedicated efforts. do the deep reflection needed to discover who this best self might be, and then,
On Sunday, October 1, Mens Club using a GPS (God Positioning System), get ourselves to our destination.
will erect the Sukkah in the courtyard. Many of us are on the right path, and we are comfortable. Remember, however,
Please contact me if you can lend a that our GPS allows us to make needed adjustments on our journey. These
hand. Refreshments will be provided to adjustments should reflect who we want to be not who people have told us we
laborers and kibitzers. should be. Perhaps we have been told that we should look a certain way, weigh a
Upcoming events this fall include a certain amount, or make more money. We owe it to ourselves during reflection and
joint event with Sisterhood in the prayer to ask if these changes are the right ones for us. Perhaps instead of looking
Sukkah on Tuesday, October 10, and a at changing our weight, we need to quit a sedentary job and find one that allows us
brunch on Sunday, November 5, at 10 to live an active life style. Maybe instead of changing how we look, we need to
a.m. in the Lainoff Auditorium. Look give ourselves permission to get more sleep so we look less fatigued and stressed.
for details on both in future Possibly, instead of pushing ourselves to make more money, we can spend time
announcements. being grateful for all we have and enjoy more time with family and friends. We
may not need to make huge course adjustments, but reflection allows us to consider
The Mens Club Israel Pilgrimage
the changes that we need to make and work toward goals we love rather than goals
Scholarship Program provided six
others have created for us.
scholarships this past year to teens of
the Congregation for Israel experiences. When we consider what best self we wish to return to, we have a chance to
Please contact Mens Club for details if ask ourselves what we want in life. It may not be the self-image that was crafted
you have a teen who is interested in a by a parent, by an old flame, or by social media. While you are in shul this fall, ask
peer trip to Israel. God to help you understand what it means to be your most authentic self, then you
can use teshuvah to help reach your goal.
We would greatly appreciate your
support for our Mens Club this No matter how big or small the adjustments need to be, Tishrei is the time to
coming year by sending in your set a course for the year. All of us can use this time to talk with friends and share
membership dues for 2017-18 (5778). our hopes and goals. Their support will make a difference in our ability to change.
Our nominal dues for the year are $36, Adults, take time with your children, grandchildren, and young friends to listen to
but please consider donating a Chaier their dreams and consider being a guide for them in achieving their goals instead
amount such as $54 (i.e., triple Chai). of creating dreams for them. As a congregation, we want to be the best community
If you have any suggestions for events we are capable of being, to create an institution that reflects our very best
or would like to help with any of our aspirations. To accomplish this, we are embarking on a strategic planning process
activities, please contact me at that will enable us to be the best iteration of Agudas Achim we are capable of
elliot.parkin@gmail.com. being. When we gather in a few weeks as a holy community, look around, and
think about what kind of congregation we can become. Share your ideas with our
board and staff. Help us get on track to be the best congregation possible.
When you consider the schedule for the coming weeks, allow yourself real time
in services to do the work necessary to be the best self you can be in the year ahead.
I am grateful to all of you for helping me stay on track to become the best Morah
Chaya I can be. On behalf of my family Emma, Caleb, Max, and Lilly I wish each
of you a sweet new year, and look I look forward to being our best in 5778!
AGUDAS ACHIM CONGREGATION PAGE 4
 EIN LANU ZMAN: END-OF-SUMMER PRE-
DEAR HAZZAN KABBALAT SHABBAT CONCERT
Hazzan Elisheva Dienstfrey Friday, September 8 | 6:00 p.m.
Ein Lanu Zman gets you into the
spirit of Shabbat with this end-of-
summer pre-Kabbalat Shabbat concert
AN AUDIENCE OF ONE in the Flax Chapel of Agudas Achim
During my Sabbatical, I had the opportunity to explore many areas. I will be Congregation just before the start of
sharing some of the lessons I learned during this time throughout this coming year, services at 6:30. The program is free
but here are a few little things I discovered: 1) My office is much bigger with and open to the public invite your
fewer things in it, 2) I love to organize (okay, I already knew that), and 3) STUFF! friends!
Yes, I discovered a lot of stuff including many CDs to which I had not taken the
time to listen.
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN
Which brings me to the album, An Audience of One:Treasures of the High READING TORAH?
Holy Day Mahzor with Cantor Steven Stoehr and Chai-Five. Cantor Stoehr
Has it been a while since you've
explains that the title of the album is based on a quote by Abraham Joshua Heschel
read? Perhaps you're looking for a new
that has directed his path as a Hazzan: A Cantor who faces the holiness in the
year's resolution this Rosh Hashanah?
Ark, rather than the curiosity of man, will soon realize that his audience is God.
Terrific! We are assigning available
This beautiful sentiment is palpable in each piece Cantor Stoehr and his a
Shabbat Torah readings for the next few
cappella group Chai-Five presents on this album from Lewandowskis popular
months and would love to have you join
Vyeetayu to Portnoys more contemporary Meditation. Almost every
our enthusiastic and talented volunteers.
selection was taken from composers writing during the Golden Age of Hazzanut
that is, from the late nineteenth century to the mid-twentieth century. It is quite My name is Margot Carter, and
remarkable how these pieces not only are familiar, but really stand up to the test I'm honored to be the new contact for
of time. They remain relevant, interesting, beautiful, moving, and inspiring. I was Torah readings (replacing Barbara
especially taken with Greenbergs Ki Keshimcha/Adam, with its gorgeous, Elkin). Please feel free to e-mail me at
harmonious chorus, Cantor Stoehrs soulful davening, and its dramatic ending. Margot.Carter@hotmail.com, or, if
you're more of a phone person, you can
My favorites on the album, though, were the well-known Avinu Malkeinu
call me at (202) 680-0904. We can set
by Janowski and Rosenblatts always entertaining Kaddish Shalem. The pieces
you up with a reading, and if you
themselves are wonderful, but coupled with the lovely harmonies of Chai-Five and
haven't read in a while, you'll get a
Cantor Stoehrs genuine feeling, they are especially enjoyable.
chance to hone your skills and
I was most impressed with the tight, yet delicate harmonies of the ensemble practice with Hazzan Elisheva
(Chai-Five), a group made up of five volunteers from their congregation Dienstfrey. I look forward to hearing
(Congregation Beth Shalom of Northbrook, IL). The liner notes explain that these from you!
devoted volunteers contribute countless hours of selfless dedication to the task of
transforming the prayers found in print into feeling, from black and white into HIGH HOLIDAY GREETING BOOK
technicolor fusion. The a cappella sound of Chai-Five lends an authenticity to the MESSAGES DUE SEPTEMBER 12
prayers reminiscent of the great tradition of Hazzan and meshoririm.
Wish the congregation a sweet new
With the High Holidays right around the corner (Rosh Hashanah begins year and support AAC at the same time
Wednesday night, Sept. 20), I recommend finding a moment to listen to this album by adding a message to the High
of High Holiday gems. To acquire your own copy or to get more information about Holiday Greeting Book. Contact the
Cantor Stoehr or his ensemble, Chai-Five, please contact Cantor Stoehr directly synagogue office for sizeS and
by emailing him at CantorStoehr@BethShalomNB.org, or you can call him at donation levels.
Congregation Beth Shalom: 847-498-4100.
*Please Note: This column will alternate between music reviews/recommendations THE CONGREGATION IS
and Dear Hazzan letters. If you would like to introduce or recommend recordings,
or if you have a question for the Hazzan regarding the ritual, liturgy, and/or music of REMINDED THAT CARRYING
the synagogue, please write Hazzan Dienstfrey at the synagogue (2908 Valley Drive, CONCEALED WEAPONS
Alexandria, VA 22302) or email her at HazzanERLD@hotmail.com.
ANYWHERE ON THE
SYNAGOGUE PREMISES IS
PROHIBITED BY STATE
STATUTE.

SEPTEMBER 2017 PAGE 5

 CARING FOR OUR COMMUNITY
FINDING SWEETNESS AFTER LOSS
After a loved one dies, the holiday
season can bring to the surface painful
reminders of loss. Participate in a
meaningful discussion designed to
explore ways of preparing for the High
Holidays while honoring those you
have lost in the context of the holiday.
Join other bereaved members to talk
about ways to allow for grief, while
still seeking meaning and comfort in
the themes of the season.
Thursday | September 14 | 6:30 pm
Michal Berkson, LCSW,
LICSW, JSSA
Rabbi Steven Rein
SISTERHOODS JUDAICA SHOP
The Judaica Shop is ready for you.
Lots of new merchandise to fill your
needs.
If you have not visited us in the past,
we suggest you start the New Year with
a visit. We welcome you and appreciate
your supporting Sisterhood in all it does
for the Temple and the Community.
Visit us on all
Sundays when
Religious School
is open 9-12 and
by appointment.
Contact Michelle
- 202 288 9856
Susan - 703 489-5068
Our Best Wishes for a Healthy, Happy,
New Year.
COMING TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX SOON!
Look for the link to Agudas Achim
Congregations online Member Survey!
Hard copies will be available in the
office. Make your voice heard! Share
your experiences, ideas, and suggestions
to make our kehillah (community) the
best it can be. Questions?
Contact: Rachel Goldberg
rachelfgoldberg@gmail.com
Jim Robbins
james.robbins@gmail.com
Rabbi Rein
srein@agudasachim-va.org
AGUDAS ACHIM CONGREGATION
PRESCHOOL NEWS
Jen Halpern, Director
Founded in 2005, Agudas Achim Preschool will turn 13 this school year. This
milestone provides us with the perfect opportunity to reflect on the past and think
about the future to think about the kind of community we want to be and the kind
of program we want to offer. To that end, I want to share just a few exciting new
changes, large and small, to look forward to this Fall.
Our playground, already a perfect balance between a traditional play space and
a natural environment, will be made even more beautiful when the children work
together to plant a garden. Theres a particular corner that needs tending to.
Working with parent volunteers, well hopefully plant a flower garden that can be
enjoyed over multiple seasons by the entire community.
We are so fortunate to have the social hall available to us; few, if any, other
preschools have such a large and well-equipped gross motor play space. But much
of the equipment has begun to show its age. Last year we purchased Imagination
Playground, or big blue blocks. This year well have new riding toys, including low
riders (think Big Wheels), a taxi for transporting friends, and even a space buggy,
which will be exactly as much fun as it sounds. Were also replacing the worn foam
blocks with newer, studier blocks perfect for climbing and tumbling.
Of course, each classroom will get new toys as well, many of which will be
math- and science-oriented. Last year we noted that we needed more of those kinds
of toys in the classrooms. To that end, were going to take advantage of an unused
classroom this year and equip it with a variety of math, science, engineering, and
art supplies. This multi-purpose room will start out small, but hopefully grow to be
something that truly sets Agudas Achim Preschool apart from every other preschool
in Alexandria.
None of these new purchases could have been made without the overwhelming
generosity of our preschool parents (and grandparents!) and the members of this
congregation. Please know that every donation you make to the preschool helps
provide our children with remarkable new opportunities to explore and to grow,
which in turn allows our program to thrive. Thank you. Heres to the next 13 years.
LULAV & ETROG ORDER FORM
It is time to order Lulavim and Etrogim for the upcoming festival of Sukkot,
which begins Wednesday, October 4. The cost for the set, including all four
species, is $45. Please return this form with your check to the synagogue office
no later than September 12, 2017. Orders received after September 12 are not
guaranteed and must include a surcharge for separate shipping. (Please make
checks payable to Agudas Achim Congregation.)
Sets will be available for pick-up at the office on
Friday, September 29, 2017.
NAME: ___________________________________________________
PHONE: __________________________________________________
PLEASE ORDER ______ SET(S) OF LULAV & ETROG @ $45/SET.
ENCLOSED IS A CHECK FOR $__________________________________
PAGE 6
 SISTERHOOD DOINGS AAC SENIORS LUNCH AND LEARN
Networking to engage and empower Conservative Jewish women. Tuesday, September 12
Sunday, August 27, 9:30 am - Agudas Achim ~ Calling all Sisterhood Board 12:00 noon 2:00 p.m.
members to our first Sisterhood Board meeting of the 2017-18 year. Lainof Auditorium
A sneak peak at our exciting fall programming!!! We welcome our guest speaker,
Delegate Eileen Filler-Corn from the
Sunday September 17, 9:30 am ~ Lainof Auditorium. Sisterhood Installation
Brunch. Inviting all Sisterhood members to say goodbye to our outgoing board and 41 District in the Virginia House of
st

welcome our new one. Come for the coffee, nosh and shmooze. Stay for the program. Delegates. She will provide us with a
review of the 2017 General Assembly
Tuesday night, October 10 ~ Put some holiday spark into your weeknight and session and what we can expect to hap-
celebrate Sukkkot with us. Joint Sisterhood/Men's Club evening under the stars in pen in 2018. This promises to be an
the Sukkah. informative program with time allotted
Sunday, October 15 ~ Sisterhood Hikes returns for another year of adventure in for Q&A, so please come prepared with
the woods. Mark your calendars. Shenandoah National Park. Come with us to trek your questions.
the trails in all their autumn crimson color. Our first joint venture with Olam This invitation is extended to all of
Tikvah/Fairfax Sisterhood. our active AAC Senior members, and as
Sunday, November 19 ~ Sisterhood goes to the theater. Join us for Crazy for always, we invite the members of the
You at Signature Theater in Shirlington. Tickets $70 per person. Bring your JCCNV Active Retirees to join us.
significant others. Invite your friends. Seating is limited. Buy your tickets now Reservations are required by Friday,
before they go. Contact Gloria Canter, gloriacanter@comcast.net. August 26. RSVP to
Nancy Siegal 703-671-0957
nsiegal@comcast.net
Jane Bergen 703-861-6419
janebergen@verizon.net

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

 MIRI BERNOVSKY-TIBOR
(Continued from page 3)
country, home to many religious, eth-
nic, political, and cultural groups. I
hope to succeed in introducing differ-
ent aspects of this fascinating country
to the NOVA community, and at the
same time to educate myself and im-
prove my understanding of the unique
American Jewish experience, Miri
says.
Before coming to Northern Virgin-
ia, Miri and Amir lived for two and a
half years in Kibbutz Nahal Oz, the
closest place in Israel to Gaza. They
moved there shortly after the 2014 Ga-
za War, because they wanted to be-
come part of a community close to the
Gaza border. Once we return home, I
want to continue my work as a social
worker while building a home on our
kibbutz, Miri observes. In the mean-
time, Miri invites everyone to get to
know her by participating in some of
the many activities she will be leading
at Agudas Achim in the next three
years.
SELICHOT
MAKING OF A MENSCH might support in the coming months. Planned gifts and bequests, such as
CELEBRATING CHARACTER DAY 2017
Together with millions of people of each other, help build and strengthen the congregations future. Their
around the globe, we will participate in legacy to the congregation will not be forgotten.
a conversation about the importance of
developing and improving character
(qualities like empathy, curiosity, grit,
humility, bravery, social responsibility,
and many more). We will begin with a
screening of the short film Making of
a Mensch by Tiffany Shlain (Emmy-
nominated filmmaker and founder of
The Webby Awards). The film will
explore character education through
the wonderful ancient Jewish teachings
of Mussar. Following the screening, we
will explore the ideas and practices
through an engaging and accessible
lens, reminding us all how relevant
these Jewish tools are to our 21st
century lives.
September 16 | 9:00pm
Traditional Selichot service to follow
AGUDAS ACHIM CONGREGATION
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS
MESSAGE
Barry Nove
LShanah Tovah. Its hard to believe summers behind us and the High
Holy Days mere weeks away. I cant think of another opportunity beside
the barbecue on September 3 to meet so many of you whom I havent had
a chance to meet yet. To all those who have introduced themselves to me
this summer, thank you for making me feel so welcome.
Over the last month, Ive moved to Alexandria from Rockville. So Im
now officially part of the neighborhood. In other news, we have had quite
a bit to be proud of and even kvell over. The congregation has a wonderful
new website, which soft launched in early August. It took a year to develop,
and this would not have happened without the leadership of Alex Perry and
Joel Goldhammer, last years co-presidents Jeff Goldstein and Jonathan
Saiger, along with the Board of Trustees, who offered their input every step
of the way. Kudos also go to Marya Runkle, our Communications
Coordinator, who spent hours and hours working with Jvillage, the website
mavens, and our IT staff to launch the site. Oh, and I dont want to forget
mentioning the committee chairs and staff, who helped create the pages
promoting all the activities the congregation is involved with.
The congregation recently received two bequests totaling over a quarter
million dollars from the Joseph Schifrin Irrevocable Trust and the Nancy
Schifrin Irrevocable Trust. We have been informed that this gift will likely
top three hundred thousand dollars. The gift appears to be unrestricted.
Leadership will be discussing investing the funds and possible areas it
those made by these long-time members who passed away within months
Please note as we enter the High Holy Day season that the main
entrance to the synagogue for security purposes, the main entrance to the
synagogue is the entrance we want everyone to use. Before Mirza left, she
installed a magnetic locking system on that door, which we will have set to
be locked for office and school hours, so either parents have a code to use
to enter or visitors will ring the bell. This system has a camera, so we can
see all those at the door. Please be aware of this new security upgrade.
Barry Nove
bnove@agudasachim-va.org
HAVDALLAH IN THE PARK
Saturday, September 9 | 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
George Mason Elementary Park
Join us as we celebrate Havdallah and the beginning of a new Religious
School year. Bring a picnic and family-friendly games/activities and enjoy
havdallah under the stars. This event is for all families (including Day
School students).
PAGE 8
IN THE FAMILY
SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO:
Louis Marcus
and family on the death of his mother, Margaret Marcus
Andrew Swers
and family on the death of his grandfather, Ralph Newman
REFUAH SHLEMAH TO:
Nancy Hailpern
Howard Fierstein
HENRY H. KREVOR SOCIAL ACTION FUND
In appreciation of The Return program
Marty and Norman Hallowell
In memory of Jocelyn Pearl
Samuel and Carol Backman
June Krevor
In memory of Samuel Shulman
Robert and Judith Bregman
ENDOWMENT FUND
In memory of Edith Landau Ziskind
Amy Levin
In memory of Jocelyn Pearl
Amy Levin
In memory of Margaret Marcus
Paul and Elizabeth Frommer
SCHIFF ENDOWMENT FUND
In honor of Joan Edelman's 80th birthday
Robert and Gayle Weiss
In honor of Sam Ziskind's 100th birthday
Robert and Gayle Weiss
In memory of David Sitrin
Robert and Gayle Weiss
In memory of Edith Ziskind
Neale Ainsfield
Robert and Maureen Shapiro
In memory of Jocelyn Pearl
Roberta Irgens
In memory of Margaret Marcus
James and Gay Alper
SPIRO ADULT EDUCATION FUND
In appreciation of Ken Labowitz for serving as president
Janet Barnett
In memory of Dr. Arthur Lehrman, cousin of Norm Kaufman
Robert and Maureen Shapiro
In memory of Edith Ziskind
Lester and Joan Edelman
In memory of Jocelyn Pearl
Lester and Joan Edelman
Shulamith Shafer
Arnold and Susan Auerhan
SAM & ANITA TURK FUND
In honor of Anita Turk's birthday
Stanley and Rita Blacker
David Every
Patricia Franklin
Michael and Deborah Turk
In loving memory of Sam Turk
Anita Turk
In memory of Edith Ziskind
Anita Turk
SEPTEMBER 2017
SAM & ANITA TURK FUND
In memory of Jocelyn Pearl
Anita Turk
In memory of Nancy Siegal's Aunt Lillian
Stanley and Rhoda Sulak
Anita Turk
CHEVRA KADISHA
In honor of the Chevra Kadisha for their mitzvot in memory of
Edith Ziskind
Sam and Les Ziskind
In memory of Frances Barth from the Maline and Barth families
with thanks for support
Alan and Mindi Maline
CEMETERY FUND
In loving memory of Rose Shapiro
Michael and Deborah Turk
In memory of Edith Ziskind
Marella Joy Silverio
In memory of Fred Buns
Leonard Lehman
In memory of Jocelyn Pearl
Barry Landau
Justin and Deborah, Hannah and Alexandra Dunie
Gloria Canter
In memory of Louise and Isaac Chapman
Jerome and Bunny Chapman
In memory of Philip and Mary Bass
Mollie Abraham
In memory of Ralph Siegel's beloved father, Jacob
Sara Lee Siegel
In memory of Sam Wolf
Mollie Abraham
In memory of beloved mother, Dora Sachs Freeman
Sara Lee Siegel
COMMUNITY CARING FUND
Get well wishes to Nancy Hailpern - refuah shlemah
Barry Landau
In memory of Jocelyn Pearl
Barry Landau
In memory of Marilyn Greenfeld
Melissa C. Bartick
In memory of Edith Ziskind
Barry Landau
HAZZAN'S DISCRETIONARY FUND
In memory of Jacob Finkelstein
Jonathan and Ruth Ruskin
In memory of Jocelyn Pearl
Lawrence and Edith Gollomp
In memory of Joseph Ruskin
Jonathan and Ruth Ruskin
In memory of Mildred Sugarman
Scott Sugarman
SCHONBERGER LIBRARY FUND
In honor of Mirza Lopez
Phillip and Farideh Schonberger
In memory of Edith Ziskind
Phillip and Farideh Schonberger
In memory of Jocelyn Pearl
Phillip and Farideh Schonberger
In memory of beloved grandmother, Miriam Schonberger
Phillip and Farideh Schonberger
PAGE 9
IN THE FAMILY
PRAYERBOOK FUND SYNAGOGUE FUND
In honor of Sam Ashkenas for an act of lovingkindness In honor of Don Melman's Blue Yarmulke Man of the Year award
Barry Landau Jack and Elinor Abraham
In honor of Sam Ziskind's 100th birthday In honor of Howard and Lois Silberberg's 50th wedding
Barry Landau anniversary and Howard's semi-retirement
In memory of Anne Ruth Goldberg Lipnick Phyllis Burka, Denise & Sheldon Iskow,
Robert Lipnick Benjamin & Ruth Burka
In memory of Arthur, Mollie and Jeannette Rose In honor of Jack Berman's retirement and Nan Berman's
Shirley Rose graduation
In memory of Celia Florence Goldberg Jack and Elinor Abraham
Robert Lipnick In honor of Mirza Lopez
In memory of Etan Savir Shirley Rose
Samuel and Carol Backman Edward and Rhonda Friedler
In memory of Henry Goldberg, father in law Arnold and Susan Auerhan
Robert Lipnick In honor of Sam Ziskind's 100th birthday
In memory of Jennie Weinkrantz, my grandmother Jonathan and Ruth Ruskin
Marilyn Levine In honor of the 50th anniversary of Lois and Howard Silberberg
In memory of Mildred Sugarman Elin Peltz
Scott Sugarman In honor of the AAC Shomrim and minyan groups for their mitzvot
In memory of Ralph Rose in memory of Edith Ziskind
Marilyn Levine Les and Sam Ziskind
To honor the memory of two wonderful ladies: Joci Pearl and In memory of David Sitrin
Edith Ziskind Arlene Leventhal
Sheila Bicoff In memory of Doris Parker's father
RABBI'S DISCRETIONARY FUND Robert and Gayle Weiss
In appreciation of receiving the Bulletin In memory of Edith Ziskind
Ed and Meredith Finn Gloria Canter
In honor of Elizabeth Margosches Jonathan and Ruth Ruskin
Janet Barnett Victor and Judith Tynes
In honor of Harry Morris Perlman's Bris In memory of Frieda Lukaczar
Evan Perlman and Catherine Crow Hirsch Barth
In honor of Marilee Perkal In memory of Jocelyn Pearl
Janet Barnett Stephen Newman and Barbara Brenman
In honor of Sonya Singer Livingston Edward and Rhonda Friedler
Janet Barnett Arnold and Ellen Levin
In memory of Jacob Finkelstein Sonya Singer Livingston
Jonathan and Ruth Ruskin Helene Schrott
In memory of Jonathan Silber Nancy Siegal
Jennifer Silber and Michael Savenelli Jeffrey and Sharyn Tureck
In memory of Joseph Ruskin Victor and Judith Tynes
Jonathan and Ruth Ruskin In memory of Margaret Marcus
In memory of Margaret Marcus, mother of Louis Marcus Howard and Sherri Kohr
Samuel and Carol Backman Elliot and Karen Parkin
In memory of Mildred Sugarman Nancy Siegal
Scott Sugarman In memory of Morris Greifer and Sophia Dahl
In memory of Vivian Kabcenell, mother of Ellen Wayne Amy Godin
Frank and Paula Walter In memory of Nancy Siegal's aunt
In memory of husband, Charles Sonya Singer Livingston
MS. Beatrice Sklarewitz In memory of Vivian Kabcenell, mother of Ellen Wayne
In memory of mother-in-law, Esther Eisenberg Edward and Rhonda Friedler
Jay Warshawsky Mirza, I LOVE YOU!
SYNAGOGUE FUND Jerry Siegel
Happy Retirement, Mirza! Thanks for all your help. Welcome Back, Ed Newberger
Barbara Hofheimer Robert and Gayle Weiss
In appreciation of all the support I received from AAC during my KIDDUSH DONATION
mobility challenge In honor of my birthday
Nancy Siegal Janet Potash
In appreciation of coming to Agudas Achim while in Alexandria In honor of the 50th anniversary of Charlene and David Pritzker
David Levy David and Charlene Pritzker

AGUDAS ACHIM CONGREGATION PAGE 10

IN THE FAMILY
MUSIC FUND RELIGIOUS SCHOOL DONATIONS
In honor of Sam Ziskind's 100th birthday In memory of Rebekah Hersch's father
Neale Ainsfield Robert and Gayle Weiss
In memory of Jocelyn Pearl RECEIVED FOR SISTERHOOD
Philip and Szeina Lurie In honor of the Sisterhood for it's mitzvot in memory of Edith
In memory of Julian Meyer, uncle of Jack Weil Ziskind
Robert and Maureen Shapiro Les Ziskind
PILLAR IN HONOR OF RABBI MOLINE In memory of Jocelyn Pearl
In memory of Ellen Wayne's mother, Vivian Kabcenell Arden Levy and Anthony Sanchez
Robert and Gayle Weiss Janet Barnett
PRESCHOOL DONATIONS In memory of Vivian Kabcenell
In honor of the Perkal family on the recent naming ceremony of Arden Levy and Anthony Sanchez
their grandchildren YOUNG FAMILIES PROGRAMMING
Robert and Maureen Shapiro In honor of new baby, Avi Ethan Kraushaar
In honor of the naming of Adella and Emmory Arden Levy and Anthony Sanchez
Arnold and Joan Hartman Moore CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
In memory of Jocelyn Pearl In honor of the centennial birthday of Sam Ziskind
Robert and Maureen Shapiro Arnold and Joan Hartman Moore
In memory of Susan's brother, Mark Loble In memory of Dr. Arthur Lehrman, cousin of Norman and Edith
Arnold and Susan Auerhan Kaufman
RELIGIOUS SCHOOL DONATIONS Robert Levine and Robin Miller
In honor of Adella and Emmory Perkal's Hebrew naming In memory of Harry Kanarick and Oscar Wengrovitz
Jack and Nanette Berman Seymour and Judith Wengrovitz
In honor of Marion Wachtel's birthday In memory of Jocelyn Pearl
Shulamith Shafer Marilyn Levine
In honor of Nan Berman earning her Master of Social Work Robert Levine and Robin Miller
degree In memory of Margaret Marcus, beloved mother of Louis Marcus
Jack and Nanette Berman Stephen Newman and Barbara Brenman
In memory of Barbara Kasoff In memory of Mary Mogel
Barry Landau Russell and Carolyn Finn
In memory of Jocelyn Pearl In memory of Ozzie Issner, father-in-law and grandfather
Stanley and Rita Blacker Robert Levine and Jaime Levine
In memory of Margo Lange
Jack and Elinor Abraham

SOCIAL ACTION COMMITTEE

Get involved and make a difference. Tikkun Olam, or
repairing the world, is our Jewish mandate to do what we
can to make the world a better place. How will you repair
the world in 5778? Get involved with the re-invigorated
and robust Social Action Committee programming.
The Unity Walk
Sunday, September 10
People of all faiths and cultures from around the D.C. region
will walk down Embassy Row in upper NW D.C. and visit
houses of worship and other religious centers in a public
celebration of unity and support for our diverse community.
Open and free to everyone. http://ifcmw.org/unity-walk/
Meal Packaging Event
September 10 and 11
JFK Hockey Field (located on the National Mall)
This is the culminating event of AARP Foundation's Sum-
merofServicetoSeniors.Thegoalistopack1,500,000 where we share events and resources on hot topics, contact
meals for local seniors in honor of the National Day of Ser-
vice. https://www.facebook.com/events/133090490612057
20,000 Meals in Two Hours
Sunday, September 10 | 3:00p.m. - 5:00p.m.
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church and Ezher Bloom
Mosque will join together to pack 20,000 meals in two
hours. Half of these meals will go to ALIVE! in Alexandria,
and half of the meals will go to an organization of Ezher
Mosque's choosing.
https://www.facebook.com/gsluth/posts/101545350657911
06
JOIN THE SOCIAL ACTION COMMITTEE
Attend monthly Social Action Meetings on the second
Thursday of each month. Consult the AAC Website calendar
for dates.
To join the Social Action Committee, please contact
Samara Weinstein at samarajw@yahoo.com.
To join the Social Action Committee Facebook group,
Deborah Siegel at dnsiegel@yahoo.com.

SEPTEMBER 2017 P AGE 11

 CONNECT WITH YOUNG
FAMILIES
FindusontheFacebookAgudas
Achim Young Families Group to
keep track of what is going on and
receive the latest updates! For more
information or to get involved contact:
Hannah Kraushaar
at hannah.kraushaar@gmail.com,
Sarah Leffler
at lefflersarah@hotmail,
Debbie Perry
at Debbiekperry@gmail.com, or
Pam Kesner
at phkesner@hotmail.com.
THIS SPACE IS
Contact Benjamin Rancman to place an ad today!
Patrick Cavanagh
703-354-3531
www.alexandriaroofing.com
3-D-4-5 For ad info. call 1-800-477-4574 www.4lpi.com 14-0995
YOUNG FAMILIES
Programming and community focused on families with children ages 0-5.
ONGOING EVENTS
GAN SHABBAT
Saturdays 11:00-12:00 a.m. Rooms 1 & 2
Volunteer-led service for kids ages 0-5, accompanied by an adult. Contact
lefflersarah@hotmail.com if you are interested in leading.
OH, SAY SHALOM SING-A-LONG AND PLAYGROUP
Sunday, September 10 | 11:00 a.m.
Hazzan Elisheva Dienstfrey leads songs for the first half hour followed by
free play. No Jewish knowledge or experience necessary. Each child requires a
grownup.
SHABABY KABBALAT SHABBAT
Friday, September 15 | 5:30 p.m.
Friday night service for kids 0-5 and adults with songs, instruments, scarves,
dancing parachutes, challah, and juice. Contact lefflersarah@hotmail.com if you
are interested in leading.
SAVE THE DATE
YOUNG FAMILIES HIGH HOLIDAY SERVICES
September 21, 22, and 30 | 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon
Look for more information coming on the AAC website, posted on Facebook, and
through the listserve.
brancman@4LPi.com or (800) 950-9952 x5857
 IN MEMORIAM
SEPTEMBER 1, 2017 ELUL 10, 5777 SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 TISHRI 1, 5778
* Irwin Jerome Ainsfield
SEPTEMBER 9, 2017 ELUL 18, 5777 Herman William Bernstein
Pearl Weber Dooley Gross
Isidor Dahl * Rose A. Weinstein
* Lena Finn Anna Schwartz
Harry Green SEPTEMBER 10, 2017 ELUL 19, 5777 Ruth Schwartz
Amy M Levitin Leo Halpern * Lieb Hillel Shapiro
David Benjamin Kushnir David Terner
SEPTEMBER 2, 2017 ELUL 11, 5777
SEPTEMBER 11, 2017 ELUL 20, 5777 Barbara Tregub
David Bicoff
Morris Pritzker * Max Witkin
* Samuel M. Clayman
Henry L. Hartman Anna Yutz SEPTEMBER 22, 2017 TISHRI 2, 5778
* Sidney Schuchner SEPTEMBER 12, 2017 ELUL 21, 5777 * Lilyan Chitlik
* Judith Stein Gen. Thomas Benton Baker * Max Gazin
Lily Friedberg Louis Klein
SEPTEMBER 3, 2017 ELUL 12, 5777
David Schneider Bertha Schneider
* Ida Chitlik
Shirley Silberberg
Frances Gottleib SEPTEMBER 13, 2017 ELUL 22, 5777
Marshall Becker Albert Zimmerman
* Sarah Haber
* Sydelle Katzer Mollie B. Deutsch SEPTEMBER 23, 2017 TISHRI 3, 5778
Sylvia Konheim Emery Grosz Meyer Diamond
Edith Rose * Anne Leventhal * Mary Fagelson
SEPTEMBER 14, 2017 ELUL 23, 5777 Harry Langbart
SEPTEMBER 4, 2017 ELUL 13, 5777
* Irving Kushner Rose Miller
* Sylvia Donner
SEPTEMBER 5, 2017 ELUL 14, 5777
* Sadie Mintz SEPTEMBER 24, 2017 TISHRI 4, 5778
Freda Schiller Nancy Fisher
* Ethel Abramson
Morton Goldenberg
Jacob Cohen SEPTEMBER 15, 2017 ELUL 24, 5777
Charles Craft * Irwin Goodwin
* Milton Fagelson
Nathan Miller * Louis Kasse
* Charles Friedman
* Moe Philip Katz * Chaim Rubin SEPTEMBER 25, 2017 TISHRI 5, 5778
Herman Perlman Charles Wanger Maurice Konheim
Jacques Rosenbaum SEPTEMBER 16, 2017 ELUL 25, 5777 * Anna Ruben
Albert Roth Marcella Cohn Deborah Aronson Stern
* Tillie Salkin * Robert Kaminsky Rose Zafren
Aaron Walden James J Kelly SEPTEMBER 26, 2017 TISHRI 6, 5778
SEPTEMBER 6, 2017 ELUL 15, 5777 * Max Schmier Marlena Gelboin
* Richard Arnold Foer * Irving Willig * Lena Shanker
* David Yellin SEPTEMBER 17, 2017 ELUL 26, 5777
SEPTEMBER 7, 2017 ELUL 16, 5777 * Joseph Freeman SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 TISHRI 7, 5778
David Forman Elizabeth Sheppard Fred Begun
Ellen Friedler Mamie Weiss Evelyn Glick
* Morris Liebman * Hyman J. Witkin Samuel Landau
David Marcus SEPTEMBER 18, 2017 ELUL 27, 5777 Jimmy Lubotsky
* Stanley Margolies * Sadie Greene Nancy Rose Shapiro
Marian Aranoff Miller Carole Millman Naomi Loble Stern
* Harry Pinson Sonia Chai Rubin SEPTEMBER 28, 2017 TISHRI 8, 5778
Morris Turk Rose Yellin Scott Goodfarb
SEPTEMBER 8, 2017 ELUL 17, 5777 SEPTEMBER 19, 2017 ELUL 28, 5777 * Raymond Kelly
Bernice Levy Kelly Alice David Michael N. Kreiger
* Sarah Waldman Janet Appel Levy * Shirley Silver
SEPTEMBER 9, 2017 ELUL 18, 5777 Harry Linver SEPTEMBER 29, 2017 TISHRI 9, 5778
* Leah bas Aharon Jeanette Loeb * Melvin Finn
* Tillie Bonnett Willis Ranck * Marshall Flax
Paul Gaidelman * Lillian Slotkin Morris Gutterman
Herbert Charles Goldstein SEPTEMBER 20, 2017 ELUL 29, 5777 * Edwin Shalloway
* Sarah Herman Corinne Coen SEPTEMBER 30, 2017 TISHRI 10, 5778
Morris Katz Kitty Coiner Perla Amar
* Robin H. Mendelson * Bessie Diamond Phyllis Appel
Nettie Perlman Bessie Jahss Jennie Cohen
Martha Roth Sidney Katz Selma Geiger
Gertrude Solomon William Segan Carolyn Gordon
Eric David Spatz * Sorah Eiteh Witkin Harry Newman

* A memorial light will be lit in the synagogue for those names marked with an asterisk
SEPTEMBER 2017 P AGE 13
 HISTORY OF ACTIONS: AGUDAS ACHIMS
SHLICHA FOR 2017 2018
BY STAN BLACKER
Background:
In February 2017, Steve Rakitt, CEO of Jewish Federation
of Greater Washington, offered Agudas Achim a grant to hire a
shlicha for the congregation for up to two years. The
combination of Federation and Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI)
is contributing $38,000 of the $78,000 required for the first
year. The grants for the second year still make Agudas
Achims second year contribution $40,000. Rabbi Rein, Joel
Goldhammer, and Stan Blacker pursued the offer, met with the
Board in March and April to discuss feasibility and work out
details. During this period, a committee was formed (Joe
Kammerman, Vicki Fishman, Chaya Silver, Sharon
Rosenblatt, Joel Goldhammer, Stan Blacker, and Rabbi Rein)
to formally apply to the JAFI Shlichut program, generate
program areas of interest to Agudas Achim for shlicha
engagement, evaluate candidate resumes, generate interview
questions, and conduct interviews.
The Board approved hiring a shlicha at its April meeting
if funds were raised in advance and we found an acceptable
candidate. Four congregants and the Endowment
Committee were approached to obtain their financial support
for the first year. Dottie Bennett, Stan and Rita Blacker, Joe
Schifrin estate, and Howard and Sherri Kohr contributed a
total of $25,000 with the Endowment Committee
contributing $15,000 for the first year. These individual
contributions are in addition to their normal annual
contributions. A decision on continuing the program into
year two will be made by the Board in early winter 2018.
Since the window to hire a quality shlicha was extremely
narrow, two weeks from Board approval, no time was
available for seeking broad financial support. The
committee agreed that Miri Bernovsky-Tibon was the top
AAC ATHLETES WIN BRONZE MEDAL IN
HOCKEY AT JCC MACCABI GAMES
Congratulations, once again, to our own James
(defensemen) and Jason (right wing/center) Townsend,
proud veteran members of Greater Washingtons JCC Ice
Hockey Team, winners for the second straight year of the
Bronze medal at the JCC Maccabi Games held in Albany,
NY. In the teams medal game, Jasons tying goal forced
overtime, which lead to a shootout victory for the Greater
Washington team.
The Maccabi Games draw young athletes from around
the country to over a dozen individual and team
competitions in three North American cities. Athletes also
participate in a community service project in the city they
play.
AGUDAS ACHIM CONGREGATION
candidate and she was interviewed in early May and shortly
after accepted our offer over another pending offer.
Actions
The young leaders cohort at Agudas Achim have
agreed to reach out to Miri and Amir (husband, as-
signed as Haaretz Washington correspondent) to as-
sure that they have immediate peer social and
community support. Becka Hirsch has agreed to also
be available to Miri for addressing any more complex
social or family issues.
An email was sent to a cross-section of Agudas Achim
members to solicit their ideas on what program areas
Miri should consider. They were asked to circulate the
request to their friends. Their ideas along with those
from Miri, Chaya, and Rabbi Rein are consolidated in a
writeup Miri will use to develop specific programs for
all congregant demographics. This writeup was made
available to the Board at its July meeting and sent to a
variety of congregants. A congregation email was sent
out describing how to obtain a copy from our upgraded
web site. We continue to seek congregant ideas and
now most importantly their participation in Miris pro-
grams offering a slice of Israel to us.
Logistics (housing, car, insurance, etc.) for Miri are be-
ing addressed by staff.
Contract with JAFI for hiring Miri was signed by Ken
Labowitz on July 10, 2017.
Miri will report directly to Rabbi Rein who will work
with staff and congregants on specific assignments.
Please provide comments to Rabbi Rein on how you
would like to bring a slice of Israel to Agudas Achim
over the next year.
JOIN GIRL SCOUTS!
Join the Girl Scout troop drawn from Agudas Achim
Congregation and Congregation Etz Hayim . Our Girl
Scout Troop is a multi-age & multi-level Rainbow
Troop with girls from ages Kindergarten to grade 8.
Save the date for our Parents Meeting: Sunday,
September 10th at 7 p.m. at the Kaminski home 2100
N. Stafford St., Arlington 22207. We welcome all new
members and particularly invite rising Kindergarten and
First Grade girls to join our Daisy Girl Scout troop. We
are also looking for new parent volunteers to help with all
aspects of our troop. For more information please
contact Beth Robbins at elizabeth.robbins33@gmail.com,
or for registration please contact Debbie Altenburg at
deborah_altenburg@yahoo.com.
PAGE 14
 Dan Schwartz, MBA
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Agudas Achim Congregation WHATS INSIDE . . .
2908 Valley Drive
Alexandria, VA 22302 WELCOME OUR SHLICHA.................page 1
Phone: 703-998-6460 HIGH HOLIDAY SCHEDULE................page 1
Fax: 703-998-5843 SERVICE SCHEDULE.........................page 2
RABBIS MESSAGE...........................page 2
The Bulletin is published monthly - ISSN1084-9858 MEMBERSHIP BARBECUE.................page 2
PRESIDENTS MESSAGE...................page 3
Rabbi ......................................................................Steven I. Rein HELP NEEDED FOR TENT.................page 3
Hazzan..........................................................................Elisheva R. Dienstfrey MAH KOREH....................................page 4
Rabbi Emeritus...............................................................................Jack Moline MENS CLUB MENSCHENINGS...........page 4
Executive Director......................................................................Barry Nove DEAR HAZZAN.................................page 5
Youth/Education Director.............................................Chaya Silver EIN LANU ZMAN CONCERT..............page 5
Preschool Director.............................................................Jen Halpern INTERESTED IN READING TORAH?....page 5
Co-Presidents...........................Kenneth Labowitz FINDING SWEETNESS AFTER LOSS...page 6
Sisterhood President...............Lenore Garon PRESCHOOL NEWS..........................page 6
Mens Club President............................Elliot Parkin JUDAICA SHOP................................page 6
Communication Specialist......Marya Runkle LULAV AND ETROG ORDER FORM....page 6
E-mail:synagogue@agudasachim-va.org ONLINE MEMBER SURVEY................page 6
Web: www.agudasachim-va.org Facebook: facebook.com/agudasachim SISTERHOOD DOINGS.......................page 7
SENIORS LUNCH AND LEARN............page 7
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS MESSAGE...page 8
WHATS AHEAD . . . SELICHOT........................................page 8
Fridays, 9:00 a.m...........................................................Talmud Study Class IN THE FAMILY.................................page 9
Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. ....................................................Parashat HaShavua SOCIAL ACTION COMMITTEE..........page 11
Saturdays, 11:00 a.m.................................................................Gan Shabbat YOUNG FAMILIES...........................page 12
YAHRZEITS....................................page 13
**High Holiday Schedule on Front Page** HISTORY OF SHLICHA ....................page 14
Sunday, September 3, 5:30 p.m...................Annual Membership Barbecue MACCABI GAMES ..........................page 14
JOIN GIRL SCOUTS .......................page 14
Tuesday, September 5................................................First Day of Preschool
Friday, September 8, 6:00 p.m.............................Ein Lanu Zman Concert
Saturday, September 9, 7:00 p.m...............................Havdallah in the Park
Sunday, September 10....................................First Day of Religious School
Oh, Say Shalom Playgroup
The Unity Walk
Tuesday, September 12 12:00 noon.......................Senior Lunch and Learn
Lulav and Etrog Orders Due
High Holiday Greeting Book Entries Due
Thursday, September 14, 6:30 p.m................Finding Sweetness After Loss
Friday, September 15, 5:30 p.m. .......................Shababy Kabbalat Shabbat
Saturday, September 16, 9:00 p.m.............................................Leil Selichot
Sunday,. September 17, 9:30 a.m................Sisterhood Installation Brunch

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