From the Presidents – February 17, 2023

Shalom Everyone!

Soon our kids’ schools will be on break for an entire week to commemorate Presidents’ Week (or ski week for the more adventurous).  I’m sure many of us remember way back when President’s Week was just a 3 day weekend and it celebrated the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln (Born February 12) and George Washington (Born February 11 but then changed to the 22nd after Britain changed the calendar).  As it turns out, both of these stellar presidents had warm relationships with the Jewish communities of their time.  In 1790 George Washington wrote a letter to the Hebrew Congregation in Newport, Rhode Island in which he told them “For happily the Government of the United States, which gives to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance requires only that they who live under its protection should demean themselves as good citizens…May the Children of the stock of Abraham, who dwell in this land continue to merit and enjoy the good will of the other Inhabitants…”  And throughout his life, Abraham Linconl maintained friendships with several Jewish merchants and residents in both Kentucky and Illinois.  It was actually a Jewish photographer, Samuel Alschuler, who photographed Linoln during his Senate campaign and after his presidential election, showing both clean shaven and bearded Lincoln.  During the Civil War, Lincoln personally intervened to ensure the Jewish chaplains could serve in the Union armies and administer to Jewish soldiers in the ranks.  

These are just a few examples of how much Jewish citizens of the United States have had an impact on American presidents throughout our history.  Now, of course, Passover seders are celebrated at the White House and menorahs lit on the White House grounds.  One day, there may even be a Jewish president! 

In other news, we wanted to thank all the families and members who attended the Religious School’s Tu B’shvat festival last week to try out all of the delicious fruits!  And a huge thank you to all those who put together the Hamaentashen class last Sunday.  The kids absolutely loved it!  

And speaking of Purim, we are once again having our traditional Purim Carnival in all its glory on March 5 from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.  There will be games, a bouncy house for the kids, songs, and a bake sale.  In order for the event to be as exciting as possible, we need your help!  We are looking for volunteers to help with set-up, clean-up, bringing baked goods, running the games, etc.  The Temple Beth Hillel Board will be volunteering as well.  Below you can find the link to sign up as a volunteer for the task you feel will contribute the most to the success of the event.  Let’s all make this Purim one to remember!

Sign up now to volunteer for the Purim Carnival!

In addition, please consider joining the Temple Beth Hillel Board of Directors next year.  Our Board is always on the lookout for members who have ideas for the future of the temple and the ability to carry out that vision.  You can reach out to us or any Board member when you are interested.

       Finally,  the next Shabbat Service will be held this Friday, February 17, at 7:30 p.m.  Family Shabbat will be held earlier that evening, at 6:15 p.m., where we will celebrate a Tu B’shevat Seder with more delicious fruits.  Please help spread the word to encourage families to join.  There will also be Torah study on Saturday at 10:15 a.m., which will be in-person and on Zoom.  And those who wish to join Tefillah services at the Religious School are welcome starting at 9:30 a.m on Sundays.  Thanks everyone!

  

 If I am not for myself, who will be for me?

If I am not for others, what am I?

And if not now, when? -Rabbi Hillel

~ Anna B Stein and David Zimring, Co-Presidents, Temple Beth Hillel