December 2015 Sisterhood News

The Sisterhood wishes you all a happy Chanukah. We are in high gear with an enthusiastic group of Sisterhood members who have planned a year of exciting events.

The Torah Fund brunch honoring Audrey Shepherd was a great success with more than 70 people attending. We had two guest speakers, Anise Parnes and Benjamin Goldberg. Ms. Parnes spoke about the work of the Women’s League for Conservative Judaism, and how our contributions aid the Conservative movement around the world. Our second speaker, a rabbinical student at JTS, discussed how he came to study for the rabbinate and his experiences at JTS. Both speakers were entertaining and enlightening. It was a great opportunity to recognize Audrey’s service to the Center.

On Sunday, January 10 at 2 P.M. we are going to hold our first winter event. As the weather turns colder, what better way to brighten our mood than with a chocolate-making party? We will be making and eating chocolate treats accompanied by a beverage of your choice. Please contact the co-presidents to let us know what beverage you would prefer.

One of the most spiritually fulfilling events on our calendar is the Sisterhood Shabbat, when our members lead the Shabbat service from beginning to end. This year it takes place on March 5. Please volunteer for something with which you are comfortable. We have a sign-up sheet at all our events, or you can call the office to be a part of the service from opening the ark, reading a poem in English, to chanting from the Torah in Hebrew. Rabbi Wise will provide instruction. Cantor Zim will assist those who want to participate in other parts of the service. As usual, a beautiful Kiddush luncheon will be provided after the service.

We will prepare for Purim on March 20 by putting together our “Shalach Manot” goodies. We always need volunteers to join our assembly line. Vicky Wolkofsky has designed a different style of basket this year. Maris Blechner continues as our chairperson for ordering. Come join us in helping make everybody’s Purim a happy one.

On April 18, in the afternoon, we will be conducting our annual Women’s Seder. Esther Beckoff, who has volunteered her time and musical talent, is our chairperson. We will use our Sisterhood-created Haggadah. This very special event is educational, inspirational, and fun.

Men’s Club and Sisterhood are uniting on Sunday, May 15. We are looking forward to hearing Mindy Stern speak on “Communicating with Style – How to be a More Effective Communicator.” Our 11 AM start will end with a sushi lunch.

Our Sisterhood gift shop is stocked with many beautiful items for Chanukah, as well as year round gifts. This year we are also selling Mah Jongg cards.

Thanks to all of you who have sent in your dues. If not, please send your Sisterhood dues to the office, c/o Sisterhood. The Hollis Hills Jewish Center Sisterhood sponsors events that bring us together for a variety of cultural, charitable, and fun happenings. We welcome your suggestions and participation.

Marilyn Teleky
Beth Sofer Diker
Co-Presidents