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Program Guide 2014-2015 / 5775
IN MEMORY OF 
Frances and Bennie Mendelson, A”H 
The most loving, helpful, considerate, people I have 
ever known. My parents instilled hope and kindness in 
our family every day. They both taught and inspired by 
example and generated so much goodness and strength 
without ever having to mention those words. It was a 
blessing more than we can ever express for them to be 
our dear parents and grandparents. 
Paul Mendelson Family 
“A crown of a good name surpasses them all.” 
Pirkei Avot, Chapter 4, Mishnah 17
TABLE OF CONTENTS 
Dedication 2 
Welcome from the Senior Rabbi 4 
Synagogue Directory 5 
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE 
Scholars-in-Residence 6 
Weekly Classes/Daily Services 8 
Annual Events/Special Classes 10 
Israel 12 
PRAYER & HOLIDAY PROGRAMS 
Shabbat 13 
Holiday Programs 14 
Shabbat 2014 16 
PROGRAMMING 
Annual Events 17 
Clubs 18 
Israeli Art Show 21 
YOUTH 
Annual Events 22 
Weekly & Monthly Events 23 
Shabbat 24 
Teen Israel Program & Camp Darom 25 
COMMUNITY 
Chesed 26 
Community Partners 27 
Staff Biographies 28 
Calendar-at-a Glance 30
WELCOME FROM THE SENIOR RABBI 
Dear Friends: 
Unique, special, vibrant, full of life and laughter, growing, learning, 
sharing, caring, chesed, love for Torah, Israel and every human being, 
are just few of the adjectives and beliefs that come to my mind when 
I think about our beloved Baron Hirsch. Our membership’s tapestry 
is combined of so many members from so many backgrounds that 
create a beautiful mosaic. Our educational programs and learning 
opportunities for all ages provide each one of you the opportunity to 
learn and grow on your individual level and enhance your knowledge 
and life. Our Israel classes and programs enrich our commitment 
to our beloved State of Israel and our involvement with Israel advocacy is admired nationally. Last year we 
celebrated a historical milestone - our 150th anniversary - in a meaningful and elegant way. We are among only 
a few congregations in the United States who have such an amazing and glorious past, and it should make us 
very proud and hopeful for a bright future. When we see the growth of our community despite the challenges, 
and when we see the large attendance of people who come to learn, daven and participate in chesed, we know 
that our future is strong and stable. 
Baron Hirsch offers a full range of services and classes for adults, teens and children. Adult Education 
opportunities abound with the Israel Affairs class, Mini-Guest Lecture Series, Education Minyan, Women’s 
Parsha class, Living Room classes, Jewish History class, Lunch and Learn class, Shabbat Afternoon class, Jewish 
History Book Club, special classes and so much more. Our Scholars-in-Residence weekends throughout the 
year provide Shabbat enrichment and real opportunities to explore different areas of our tradition. 
The Baron Hirsch Youth Department features a wide array of activities for children of all ages, including our 
new Tot Shabbat, the increasingly popular Israel Advocacy Program, Camp Darom, as well as Torah study and 
more. Seniors always enjoy the monthly Kol Rena So-Shuls luncheons. The Baron Hirsch Sisterhood, Men’s 
Club, Chesed Committee, Kiddush Corps and Knitting Group all offer numerous volunteer opportunities to 
help make our shul and our community a better place. 
We are proud to present to you this Guide to your growth, which contains virtually everything you need to 
know about the upcoming year at Baron Hirsch: our Educational Institute, Scholar-in-Residence Shabbats, 
holiday and congregational events, Youth Department and general information. We would be thrilled to see 
you and your family at our programs throughout the year, and we look forward to the opportunity to serve 
your needs. 
The events and programs presented by the synagogue have only two requirements — they need your 
attendance and your support to ensure our continued growth and diversity! We invite you to scan these pages 
and discover which window leads to your Jewish community experience. 
With much love, 
Shai Finkelstein
BARON HIRSCH STAFF 
Rabbi Shai Finkelstein | Senior Rabbi 
rabbi@baronhirsch.org 
Cantor Ricky Kampf | Cantor 
cantor@baronhirsch.org 
Rabbi Mordechai Harris 
Teen Rabbi & Outreach Director 
rabbimordechai@baronhirsch.org 
David Fleischhacker | Executive Director 
exec@baronhirsch.org 
Gwen Moody | Administrative Assistant 
gwen@baronhirsch.org 
April Blankenship | Administrative Assistant 
april@baronhirsch.org 
SYNAGOGUE DIRECTORY 
Baron Hirsch Congregation 
400 S. Yates Road 
Memphis, TN 38120 
(901) 683-7485 
For program updates and 
changes, visit us online: 
www.baronhirsch.org 
BARON HIRSCH OFFICERS 
Pace Cooper | President 
Morris Thomas | 1st Vice President 
David Mendelson | 2nd Vice President 
Dr. Ellis Tavin | Vice President 
Adam Groveman | Vice President 
Sarah Thomas | Treasurer 
Mary Trotz | Secretary 
David Cooper | Gabbai Rishon 
Elliot Wender | Gabbai Shayne 
Dr. Naftali Klein | Ass’t Gabbai 
Louis Safier | Ass’t Gabbai 
Gerald Ballin | Warden 
 
 
Baron Hirsch is on 
Facebook. Find us! 
Visit our YouTube 
channel for current 
and archived videos: 
www.youtube.com/ 
BaronHirschMemphis 
 
Add your name to 
our email list by 
sending a request to 
april@baronhirsch.org
6 
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE 
SCHOLARS IN RESIDENCE 
BARON HIRSCH is proud to bring the best of scholarship to Memphis from across the United 
States and Israel. Each of our weekends includes several presentations with our visiting scholars, along with 
the opportunity for congregants to get to meet and know these outstanding speakers on a personal level. 
Visit our website at www.baronhirsch.org prior to each visit to see the exact schedule of presentations. 
The Baron Hirsch Scholars-in-Residence program is sponsored by Larisa & Ben Baer. 
NOVEMBER 21 – 22 | PROFESSOR SMADAR & RABBI 
MICHAEL ROSENSWEIG 
Rabbi Michael Rosensweig occupies the Nathan and Perel Schupf Chair in Talmud 
at RIETS. He is a 1980 graduate of Yeshiva College, and earned an M.A. and a Ph.D. 
from the Bernard Revel Graduate School. After receiving semicha, Rabbi Rosensweig 
was among the first group to complete the intensive post-graduate studies in RIETS’ 
Caroline and Joseph S. Gruss Kollel Elyon, and was appointed a Rosh Yeshiva in 1985. 
Dr. Smadar Rosensweig is a professor of Bible at Stern College for Women at Yeshiva 
University, as well as a professor of biblical studies at Allegra Franco Sephardic 
Women’s Teachers College. Previously, she was a professor of Judaic studies and 
history at Touro College. Dr. Rosensweig received a master’s degree in philosophy and 
a master’s degree in arts from Columbia University. She gives shiurim and lectures 
throughout the metropolitan area and across the country. 
JANUARY 16 - 17 | RABBI DR. MEIR SOLOVEICHIK 
Rabbi Meir Soloveichik is a leading Jewish thinker, theologian, and public intellectual. 
He obtained his Rabbinic ordination from Yeshiva University and holds a Ph.D. from 
Princeton in Religion. He currently serves as the Director of the Straus Center for Torah 
and Western Thought at Yeshiva University, and is the Senior Rabbi of Congregation 
Shearith Israel, the Spanish & Portuguese Synagogue, in Manhattan. 
FEBRUARY 6 - 7 | PROFESSOR MORDECHAI KEDAR 
Dr. Mordechai Kedar is a Lecturer on Arabic and Islamic Studies and an Assistant 
Professor at Bar-Ilan University. His areas of research include Islam, Islamic Movements, 
gender issues in Islam, Arabic mass media, popular culture in the Arab world, state 
and society in the Arab world. He is a frequent guest on Al Jezeera, and served as a 
Lieutenant Colonel in the IDF Military Intelligence unit.
7 
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE 
MARCH 20 - 21 | RABBI MENACHEM LEIBTAG 
Rabbi Menachem Leibtag, is an internationally acclaimed bible scholar and pioneer of 
Jewish Education on the internet. His vibrant thematic-analytical approach blends the 
methods of modern academic scholarship with traditional Jewish approaches to the 
Biblical text. He is best known for his ability to teach students how to study rather than 
simply read Biblical passages. Rabbi Leibtag teaches at Yeshivat Har Etzion, Yeshivat 
Shaalavim, Midreshet Lindenbaum, and at Yeshiva University’s Gruss Center, and 
routinely lectures around the globe. 
MAY 1 - 2 | RABBI BENJAMIN BLECH 
Rabbi Benjamin Blech is an internationally recognized educator, religious leader, 
author, and lecturer. He is Rabbi Emeritus of Young Israel of Oceanside, which he 
served for 37 years. A recipient of the American Educator of the Year Award, he has 
been a Professor of Talmud at Yeshiva University since 1966. Rabbi Blech is the author 
of fifteen highly acclaimed and bestselling books. He is also a past President of both 
the National Council of Young Israel Rabbis, as well as the International League for the 
Repatriation of Russian Jewry. Rabbi Blech has also served as officer for the New York 
Board of Rabbis as well as the Rabbinical Council of America. 
JUNE 19 - 20 | RABBI RONEN & DR. PNINA NEUWIRTH 
Rabbi Neuwirth is serving as the Rabbi of Ohel Ari (Minyan Chadash) Congregation 
in Ra’annana. He is the executive director of the Beit Hillel organization in Israel. He 
combines his work as a Rabbi and teacher with work as Chief Technology Officer for a 
hi-tech company. 
Dr. Pnina Neuwirth is a judge, formerly a lawyer, specializing in Tax and Commercial 
law in Israel. She holds a Bachelor degree and a Master’s degree in Tax Law from the 
Hebrew University and a Ph.D. in the field of International Taxation of E-commerce 
from Haifa University. She also teaches in a number of seminaries. From 2004 until 
2006 Pnina was a visiting professor at Stern College for women in the US, teaching 
Jewish Studies and Jewish Philosophy. She was also the writer of a column “Women in 
the Bible” for the Makor Rishon paper in Israel.
8 
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE 
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE 
WEEKLY CLASSES/DAILY SERVICES 
SUNDAYS 
World Events Class - See page 12 
TUESDAYS 
Call Torah – Rabbi Shai Finkelstein 
Watch Rabbi Finkelstein give a short class on the 
weekly parsha. Watch on your computer, your iPad, 
or your mobile device via YouTube. Archived classes 
can be viewed on Baron Hirsch’s YouTube channel at 
www.youtube.com/BaronHirschMemphis 
Basic Jewish Concepts – Cantor Ricky Kampf 
7:00 PM (times may vary in some seasons in order 
not to conflict with Mincha) - Margolin Beit 
Midrash Cantor Kampf will help you navigate 
through basic Jewish concepts, as well as guiding you 
through the Jewish calendar. 
WEDNESDAYS 
Ladies Parsha Class – Rabbi Shai Finkelstein/ 
Rabbi Mordechai Harris 
10:30 AM – I.E. Hanover Library. The weekly 
Parsha is always an exciting text. For thousands of 
years, Jews have learned the parsha and always found 
relevant messages to their life. In this interactive class, 
participants will learn about the parsha in depth. This is 
a great way to be ready for Shabbat. 
Lunch & Learn – Rabbi Shai Finkelstein/ 
Rabbi Mordechai Harris 
Noon – I.E. Hanover Library. Enjoy a delicious lunch 
along with a class on the weekly parsha. This is a 
class were discussion is encouraged and participants 
reach a conclusion together. 
Jewish History – Rabbi David Radinsky 
7:00 PM (times may vary in some seasons in 
order not to conflict with Mincha) - Margolin Beit 
Midrash Covering topics throughout Jewish history, 
the class is currently focused on learning about the 
history of anti-semitism from the 19th through the 
21st centuries in Europe and the Middle East. 
SHABBAT 
Weekly Parsha – Rabbi Shai Finkelstein 
Shabbat mornings, 15 minutes before services 
A fifteen minute class before Shacharit on themes in 
the weekly parsha. 
Shabbat Afternoon Class – Rabbi Shai Finkelstein 
Shabbat: 45 minutes before Mincha in the 
Margolin Beit Midrash. The Talmud is the pillar of 
our Oral Torah. It’s the foundation of our teachings 
and Jewish law. Tractate Brachot explores the history, 
mindset, and the teachings of our sayings regarding 
prayer and blessings.
EDEDUUCACTAITOINONAAL LI NINSTSITTIUTUTETE 
WEEKLY CLASSES/DAILY SERVICES 
9 
BARON HIRSCH offers numerous daily services which allow our congregants to participate 
in the great mitzvah of public prayer. On weekdays we have two morning minyanim each day, the first 
one meeting in the Hanover Library, and the second meeting in the Margolin Beit Midrash. There is one 
minyan for Mincha & Maariv each evening in the Beit Midrash. 
While most service times follow the basic schedule below, exact times each week can be found on our 
website at www.baronhirsch.org 
SHACHARIT SERVICES 
Sunday 7:00 AM 
or 8:00 AM 
Monday, Thursday, Rosh Chodesh 6:20 AM 
or 6:45 AM 
Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 6:30 AM 
or 7:00 AM 
MINCHA/MAARIV 
Sunday-Thursday 15 minutes 
before sunset 
DAILY LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES 
Baron Hirsch offers two opportunities for short 
daily Torah study centered around minyanim. 
Immediately following the first morning minyan, 
Rabbi Mordechai Harris shares a quick Dvar Halacha 
– a basic rule of Jewish practice – which pertains 
either to our daily activity, to prayer, or to the 
season of the year. 
In the afternoon, both Rabbi Finkelstein and Rabbi 
Harris give a short class in Jewish thought between 
Mincha and Maariv. The topic may be parsha or 
holiday related, or they may study a book of Jewish 
philosophy or practice.
10 
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE 
ANNUAL EVENTS / SPECIAL CLASSES 
SHABBAT SHUVA DRASHA 
Shabbat, September 27th, 2014 at 5:00 PM 
Given by Rabbi Shai Finkelstein 
“Guilt, Shame, & Repentance through the Eyes of 
Willard Gaylin, Maimonides, & Rabbi Soloveichik” 
It is traditional for the Rabbi of a congregation to 
give a special lecture on the Shabbat between 
Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. This class, which 
attracts more than 100 people, gives members of the 
community a chance to learn not only the laws of the 
upcoming holiday of Yom Kippur, but to prepare for 
this important day in a more inspirational manner. 
Childcare available for ages 2-6. 
Sponsored by a Friend of Baron Hirsch in Support of 
Jewish Continuity 
YOM KIPPUR TEACH IN 
Shabbat, October 4th, 2014 at 3:30 PM 
Yom Kippur is not just a day of prayer, but can be 
a day of Torah learning and growth as well. At this 
important time, we strive to use every moment of the 
day, including the hour break between the Musaf and 
Mincha services. 
“The High Priest from a Religious, Philosophical 
& Psychological Perspective” 
Given by Rabbi Shai Finkelstein 
Teshuva: A Time to Repair, a Time to Rebuild 
Given by Rabbi Mordechai Harris 
Dedicated in memory of William Cohn, A”H, 
by his family 
WOMEN’S SIMCHAT TORAH 
DIVREI TORAH 
Friday, October 17th, 2014 at 11:00 AM 
Now in its fifth year, this is a special Simchat Torah 
celebration, just for women! Join us in the Bet 
Midrash for Divrei Torah and a special Kiddush. 
Various women from within the congregation will 
speak. Following the program, everyone will come 
together in the sanctuary for the children’s Aliya and 
the completion of the reading of the Torah. 
SHABBAT HAGADOL DRASHA 
Shabbat, March 28th, 2015 at 5:30 PM 
Given by Rabbi Shai Finkelstein 
On the Shabbat before Passover, it is the custom for 
the Rabbi of a congregation to give a special lecture. 
This class, which attracts more than 100 people, gives 
members of the community a chance to learn not only 
the laws of the upcoming holiday, but to prepare for 
the upcoming holiday in a more inspirational manner. 
Childcare available for ages 2-6.
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE 
ANNUAL EVENTS/SPECIAL CLASSES 
11 
TIKKUN LEIL SHAVUOT 
Saturday night, May 23rd, 2015 at Midnight 
Shavuot celebrates the receiving of the Torah on Mt. 
Sinai. It is a beautiful custom to spend the entire night 
of Shavuot immersed in Torah study, to show our 
love of Torah and our anticipation in reenacting G-d’s 
revelation. All night classes by Rabbi Finkelstein, Rabbi 
Harris, and other community scholars. Teen and pre-teen 
programs, all ending with morning services. 
TISHA B’AV PROGRAM 
Saturday, July 25th - Sunday, July 26th, 2015 
Given by Rabbi Shai Finkelstein 
The themes and ideas of Tisha B’Av are often difficult 
for us to understand, for we are so many years 
distant from the destruction of Jerusalem which 
the day commemorates. Our Tisha B’Av program 
includes a class by Rabbi Finkelstein following Eichah 
at night, explanations of the Kinot during Shacharit, 
and special video presentations in the afternoon. 
MEMORIAL LECTURES 
Sunday, January 11, 2015 at 7:30 PM 
Given by Rabbi Shai Finkelstein 
Rabbi Finkelstein will deliver this annual yarhzeit 
lecture in memory of his father David, A”H. The topic 
will be “Honoring Parents in Challenging Times.” 
Rabbi Finkelstein will explore the delicate situation 
of the commandment to honor our parents and 
situations where the parent’s behavior is affected by 
old age, Alzheimer or other diseases. 
Wednesday, August 5, 2015 at 6:45 PM 
Given by Rabbi David Radinsky 
Rabbi Radinsky gives his annual yahrtzeit class in 
memory of Jack & Lillian Radinsky, A”H, and Herman 
Cooper, A”H. 
MEET THE SOFER 
Monday, September 29, 2014 at 6:00 PM 
Eyal Sapir, a certified Sofer (scribe) gives an 
informative class on what is involved in checking tefillin 
and mezuzot. Congregants can also bring their own 
mezuzot and tefillin to Eyal and arrange to have him 
check them. New items will be available for sale.
12 
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE 
ISRAEL 
I.E. HANOVER LECTURE 
ON WORLD AFFAIRS 
Sundays, 9:00 AM in the Hanover Library 
Led by Rabbi Shai Finkelstein 
As Jews, the State of Israel is an essential part of 
our life. Since its establishment, Israel has faced 
challenges as it continues to build itself to be one of 
the leading countries in the world. In this course, we 
will discuss current events that influence Israel, the 
Middle East, and the entire world. 
SPECIAL SHABBAT ISRAEL CLASSES 
Shabbat Afternoons, 45 minutes before Mincha 
in the Margolin Beit Midrash 
Led by Rabbi Shai Finkelstein 
Our connection to Israel is part of our identity. Rabbi 
Finkelstein analyzes the situation in Israel from both 
geopolitical and military perspectives. 
AIPAC POLICY CONFERENCE 
March 1-3, 2015 Washington Convention Center, 
Washington, D.C. 
This mission of AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs 
Committee) is to strengthen, protect and promote 
the U.S.-Israel relationship in ways that enhance the 
security of Israel and the United States. 
YOM HAATZMAUT 
Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 at 7:00 PM 
Each year, Baron Hirsch joins with the community 
to celebrate Israel Independence Day with prayer, 
song and joyous celebration. This year’s celebration 
of the 67th Anniversary of the State of Israel will be 
no different. Please join us as we gather this year to 
observe the holiday at our sister congregation, Anshei 
Sphard Beth El Emeth. 
MEMPHIS FRIENDS OF ISRAEL 
Memphis Friends of Israel is a pro-active, non-denominational, 
non-political, non-profit organization 
whose mission is to educate the Mid-South community 
about the positive aspects of Israeli society and about 
the value of American support for Israel.
PRAYER & HOLIDAY PROGRAMS 
SHABBAT 
13 
CARLEBACH KABBALAT SHABBAT 
Friday evenings 15 minutes before sunset; 
6:45 PM during Daylight Savings Time. 
Baron Hirsch’s Friday night service is the most 
popular service of the week, as Cantor Kampf 
welcomes the Shabbat with the joyful and 
inspirational tunes of Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach, A”H. 
Come join us and be a part of this weekly celebration 
- men, women and children are all welcome. If you 
don’t yet know the tunes, start by just clapping along 
– you’ll pick up the melody quickly! 
SHABBAT MORNING MINYAN 
9:00 AM 
Come pray with us in a warm and friendly 
morning service featuring the traditional Saturday 
morning prayers in a stimulating and comfortable 
environment. Through his weekly sermon, Rabbi 
Finkelstein invites the congregation to learn with 
him a timely message of the Torah portion. Cantor 
Kampf’s melodious voice leads all those who 
attend in joyous song. We make every effort to make 
everyone who comes feel comfortable and a part 
of the service. Following services each week, our 
congregants enjoy a delicious Kiddush where they can 
socialize and meet new people. 
LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES 
Shabbat presents numerous opportunities for Torah 
Study at Baron Hirsch. See page 8 for details. 
SEUDAH SHLISHIT 
Every Saturday afternoon, we bring Shabbat to 
a meaningful close with Seudah Shlishit – the 
third Shabbat meal. Join us in the Parker- 
Margolin Tabernacle for this light dinner, and enjoy 
the company of others in the congregation. There is 
always great conversation, song, and a Dvar Torah 
from the Rabbi. There is no chage and reservations 
are not required. 
Many members choose to sponsor a Seudah Shlishit 
to honor the memory of a loved one on the occasion 
of his or her yahrtzeit. If you would like to sponsor a 
particular Shabbat, please contact the office. 
YOUTH PROGRAMS 
Baron Hirsch offers a variety of Shabbat youth 
programs in both the morning and afternoon, 
including Junior Congregation, a Teen Minyan, and 
several learning programs. See page 24 for details.
14 
PRAYER & HOLIDAY PROGRAMS 
HOLIDAY PROGRAMS 
PRE-SELICHOT KUMSITZ 
Saturday, September 21, 2014 at 9:00 PM 
Come early and get into the mood of the High Holy 
Days with an uplifting Kumsitz featuring the Niggunim 
& Teffilot (tunes and prayers) of the Days of Awe 
with the accompaniment of musical instruments. 
Refreshments, including a coffee & latte bar, will be 
served. Selichot services will follow at 10:00PM. 
FAMILY SUKKAH PARTY 
Sunday, October 12th, 2014 at 5:00 PM 
Celebrate the festival of joy in and around the Baron 
Hirsch Sukkah. Food, live music, rides, balloons, and 
fun for everyone. There is always something new at 
the Baron Hirsch Sukkah Party. 
MEN’S CLUB SIMCHAT BEIT 
HASHOEVA TISCH WITH BOURBON 
TASTING AND BBQ 
Monday, October 13th, 2014 at 7:00 PM 
Join us for this adult only event in the Baron Hirsch 
Sukkah which celebrates the festival with words of 
Torah, song, a bourbon tasting and bbq specialties. 
RSVP in the shul office. $20 per person. 
WOMEN’S SIMCHAT TORAH 
HAKAFOT 
Thursday, October 16th, 2014 at 7:00 PM 
At Baron Hirsch, women are invited and encouraged 
to participate in the dancing and singing during the 
hakafot on Simchat Torah. Come participate in this 
meaningful and joyous celebration! 
SIMCHAT TORAH 
HAKAFOT & DINNER 
Thursday, October 16th, 2014 at 7:00 PM 
The most exciting, fast paced, Simchat Torah Hakafot 
in the world with singing, dancing, candy bags, prizes, 
and a complimentary dinner afterwards. 
Dinner Sponsored by Sue Ann & Bernard Lipsey. 
SIMCHAT TORAH LUNCH 
Friday, October 17th, 2014 at 1:15 PM 
As the holiday season concludes, there is nothing 
better than joining with our shul family for a 
congregation-wide Simchat Torah Lunch, which 
immediately follows our joyous Simchat Torah 
Hakafot and services. Take a break from your holiday 
cooking and join with our family. RSVP in advance to 
the synagogue office. 
Sponsored by Sue Ann & Bernard Lipsey.
PRAYER & HOLIDAY PROGRAMS 
HOLIDAY PROGRAMS 
15 
CHANUKAH DINNER 
Wednesday, December 17th, 2014 at 5:30 PM 
Share the light and warmth of Chanukah at our fun-filled 
Chanukah Dinner. In addition to the delicious 
holiday menu, there is always a festive atmosphere with 
lots of children’s activities. RSVP to the synagogue office. 
PURIM SEUDAH & CARNIVAL 
Thursday, March 5th, 2015 
There is nothing like a Baron Hirsch holiday 
celebration, and there is no celebration quite like 
the Baron Hirsch Purim Seudah. In addition to great 
food, live music, and a lot of fun, there are also 
numerous children’s activities – with the focal point 
being our annual Purim Carnival. This year promises 
to be to have new games, great prizes, a lot of 
surprises, and our famous Tisch. 
WOMEN’S MEGILLAH READING 
Thursday, March 5th, 2015 at 11:00 AM 
This past year, for the first time, Baron Hirsch held a 
special Megillah reading on Purim day - prepared by 
women of the congregation, many of whom learned 
to read the Megillah for the first time. We look 
forward to this wonderful program once again. 
YOM HAATZMAUT AT ASBEE 
Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 at 7:00 PM 
Baron Hirsch joins with other community institutions 
to celebrate the State of Israel’s 67th Birthday. Always 
a meaningful program, this service of thanksgiving is 
mixed with music, dancing, and drama.
16 
PRAYER & HOLIDAY PROGRAMS 
SHABBAT 2014 
SHABBAT 2014 IS COMING TO MEMPHIS! 
Shabbat is the most sacred day on the Jewish calendar. It is a day of rest, spiritual growth, family 
togetherness and a time to pause and think. On October 24th & 25th – we will be joining something truly 
special that is happening in more than 170 cities and 30 countries around the globe, including right here in 
Memphis. 
In a mass show of unity and love, Jews of diverse backgrounds will join together to participate in “Shabbat 
2014” – an international grassroots Jewish identity movement that unites all Jews to keep one full Shabbat 
together. The idea originated last year in South Africa, and if you have not yet seen the inspirational video 
about this event, please search for “Shabbos Project 2014” on YouTube. 
Over the coming weeks, you will be receiving more information about how you can be involved in the 
Shabbat Project. Please reserve the dates on your family’s calendar, and get ready for a truly inspirational 
and special weekend.
PROGRAMMING 
ANNUAL EVENTS 
17 
ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING 
January 11th, 2015 at 6:30 PM 
Every January, Baron Hirsch holds its annual 
membership meeting and elections of officers. It 
is a wonderful time to acknowledge all those who 
dedicate their time to the shul, and for all of our 
members to celebrate our accomplishments. 
BELZ PARKER ARTISTS 
ASCENDING SERIES - 48TH SEASON 
Sunday, October 26th, 2014 at 7:30 PM 
Featuring virtuoso pianist Michael Sikich playing a 
program of classical and jazz music. 
Sponsored in memory of Philip Belz by the Belz Family 
For more than 48 years, the Belz Parker Artists 
Ascending Concert Series has brought some of the 
world’s most promising young classical musicians 
from around the world to Memphis to showcase their 
blossoming talents. Notable performers have included 
violinist Itzhak Perlman, conductor Daniel Barenboim, 
pianist Misha Dichter and violinist Gil Shaham – all of 
whom have gone on to achieve worldwide acclaim. All 
concerts are free and open to the public. 
FAMILY SHABBAT MEALS 
Several times a year, our membership comes 
together at the synagogue to enjoy a communal 
Shabbat meal. 
November 21st, 2014 Friday Night Dinner 
January 16th, 2015 Friday Night Dinner 
February 6th, 2015 Friday Night Dinner 
March 20th, 2015 Friday Night Dinner 
June 20th, 2015 Shabbat Lunch 
100 MAN MINYAN 
January 18th, 2015 
Join us as we once again gather over 100 men for 
a special Sunday morning minyan followed by a 
complimentary breakfast. Women & children are 
welcome to participate! Please RSVP to the office. 
Sponsorships are available, contact David Fleischhacker. 
CAFÉ SIMCHA 
Café Simcha is Baron Hirsch’s unique Kosher dining 
experience. We invite a popular chef from a local 
restaurant into the Baron Hirsch kitchen to prepare an 
exquisite dinner, providing a kosher dining opportunity to 
the community. Watch for the menu to be released soon. 
October 26th, 2014 
December 7th, 2014 
(all day café in conjunction with Art Show) 
May 3rd, 2015 
BARON HIRSCH ANNUAL DINNER 
Sunday, March 22nd, 2015 
Join us for a Gala Dinner as we celebrate our 
congregation’s accomplishments over the last year 
and recognize the dedication of those within our 
membership who have helped our success.
18 
PROGRAMMING 
CLUBS 
SOURCES: THE JEWISH 
HISTORY BOOK CLUB 
Now in its 6th year, the participants in the Jewish 
History Book Club read nonfiction books covering 
the time period from the Second Temple to the 
present. Meetings are held every other month 
with the discussion lead by a volunteer member. 
Anyone interested in learning more Jewish history 
is welcome. All sessions meet at Baron Hirsch at 
8:00PM, unless otherwise noted. Contact Ellis Tavin, 
chairman, for more information. 
September 15, 2014 
The Pity of It All - Amos Elon 
Discussion by Shelley Kutliroff 
200 years of Jewish integration into German society 
November 17, 2014 
A Murder in Lemberg - Michael Stanislwski 
Discussion by Ellis Tavin 
Did Orthodox community murder Reform Rabbi? 
January 26, 2015 
The Rebbe - Samuel Heilman and Menachem Friedman 
Discussion by Jerry Kutliroff 
Rebbe and emissaries fight assimilation 
March 23, 2015 
Wonder of Wonders: A Cultural History of 
Fiddler on the Roof - Alisa Solomon 
Discussion by Ellen Tavin 
Broadway tries to make a Jewish story less “Jewish” 
for a wider audience appeal 
June 8, 2015 
Like Dreamers - Yossi Klein Halevi 
Discussion by Rabbi Shai Finkelstein 
Socialist Kibbutzniks and Religious Zionist 
paratroopers reunite Jerusalem and divide the country
PROGRAMMING 
19 
BARON HIRSCH MITZVAH KNITTERS 
Our Baron Hirsch Knitting Group meets regularly 
and knits for a number of different causes, including 
the Israel Defense Forces, Memphis Jewish Home, 
and MIFA. Join these dedicated women and have a 
fun-filled afternoon of knitting and conversation. The 
group meets on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each 
month, from 1:00-3:00 PM in the I.E. Hanover Library. 
KOL RENA SO-SHULS 
The Kol Rena So-Shuls is Baron Hirsch’s social group 
for seniors. Each month we host a homemade lunch 
with live entertainment, bingo, and more. Seniors 
from throughout the community are welcome, and 
the cost is just $3 per person. 
Sponsored in memory of Rena Loskovitz, A”H, 
by her family. 
Upcoming Dates: 
November 19, 2014 
January 21, 2015 
February 18, 2015 
March 18, 2015 
May 20, 2015 
June 17, 2015 
July 15, 2015 
August 19, 2015 
MEN’S CLUB 
Our Men’s Club, led by Jake Lipsey and Mark Hayden, 
plans a number of fun social activities throughout the 
year. Volunteers are always needed, and you can speak 
to one of the presidents to discuss opportunities. 
Our Men’s Club founded an annual community wide 
Men’s Club event that each congregation in Memphis 
has hosted, and Baron Hirsch most recently hosted 
again in 2014. Look for details and location for our 
2015 community-wide event! 
Other current Men’s Club programs include: 
October 12, 2014 
Cooking for Annual Sukkah Party – see page 14 
October 13, 2014 
Simchat Beit Hashoeva Tisch with Bourbon Tasting & 
BBQ – see page 14 
January 18, 2015 
100 Man Minyan – see page 17 
CLUBS
20 
PROGRAMMING 
CLUBS 
BARON HIRSCH SISTERHOOD 
Our congregation’s ladies group plans social, 
community service and fundraising events 
throughout the year, led by Sisterhood 
president, Eileen Posner. 
Upcoming Events Include: 
October 14, 2014 at Noon 
Just for Ladies – Lunch in the Sukkah 
Delicious lunch and entertainment in the Baron 
Hirsch Sukkah 
TBD 
Sisterhood Game Night 
Once a year, our sisterhood gathers with their sister 
organizations in all other congregations for an 
evening of fun and games. 
TBD 
Spring Fashion Show and Luncheon 
A popular event featuring fashion from various local 
boutiques and an always scrumptious luncheon. 
BARON HIRSCH YOUNG 
PROFESSIONALS GROUP 
This group has a mission of strengthening and 
enhancing the Jewish experience for community 
members in the 21 – 35 age range. 
Young Professional Shabbat Dinners 
Throughout the year, delicious themed Shabbat 
dinners are offered for our community’s young 
professionals. These highlight events offer a night 
out with great company, amazing food, and a 
short class from one of the Baron Hirsch Rabbis. 
Babysitting is available. 
Upcoming Dates: 
October 29, 2014 
January 30, 2015 
April 24, 2015 
Young Professional Pot Luck Lunches 
Several times each year, our young professionals 
will organize an informal pot luck meal on Shabbat 
afternoon which will rotate hosts, menus and 
preparations. Look for our list of dates to be 
released soon.
21
22 
YOUTH 
BOYS HOLIDAY CHOIR 
Rosh Hashanah/Yom Kippur 
Under the direction of Cantor Ricky Kampf, our 
Boys Choir has added beauty and inspiration to 
our holiday services for many years. The children 
rehearse for a month before the holidays, and 
celebrate their accomplishments afterwards with a 
trip to a Grizzlies game with our Rabbi and Cantor. 
SUKKAH HOP/TREASURE HUNT 
Shabbat, October 11th, 2014 at 4:00 PM 
For ages 9 – 13, enjoy a challenging Sukkah Treasure 
Hunt throughout the neighborhood with great prizes. 
Meet in the Baron Hirsch Sukkah. 
For ages 3 – 8, there will be a Sukkah Hop with songs, 
stories and treats. Meet in the Baron Hirsch Sukkah. 
SUKKOT CHOL HAMOED YOUTH DAY 
Tuesday, October 14th, 2014 at 1:00-5:00 PM 
Children and teens of all ages will enjoy our 
annual afternoon of Putt Putt, go-karts, batting 
range, bumper boats, and other rides, games and 
refreshments. Held at Golf & Games Family Park on 
Summer Avenue. 
PESACH CHOL HAMOED 
YOUTH DAY 
Tuesday, April 7th, 2015 
Baron Hirsch sponsors the largest Pesach young even 
in Memphis and families flock to our events each year. 
Whether it is putt putt, skating, or something new, kids 
love our Chol HaMoed events. Reserve the date, and 
stay tuned for this year’s location. 
GRADUATION KIDDUSH 
Shabbat, June 6th, 2015 
In what has become a beautiful Baron Hirsch 
tradition, each year we honor our congregation 
graduates – on the high school, junior high, and 
kindergarten level. A gala Kiddush is held in 
their honor, sponsored by their families, and the 
congregation presents a special gift to each graduate. 
TIKKUN LEIL SHAVUOT 
May 23rd, 2015 
NCSY MIDWEST REGIONAL EARLY 
SPRING CONVENTION AT 
BARON HIRSCH 
March 12-15, 2015 
ANNUAL EVENTS
YOUTH 
WEEKLY & MONTHLY EVENTS 
23 
PROGRAMS FOR 9TH-12TH GRADE 
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH NCSY 
Teen Minyan and Seudah Shlishit: 
A weekly peer led Mincha Minyan followed by a lively 
Seudah Shlishit including engaging debates, delicious 
foods, singing and Divrei Torah. 
Latte and Learning: 
Throughout the year, NCSY’ers meet for a delicious cup 
of Starbucks or scoop of TCBY and a discussion driven 
class on various topics confronting our teenagers. 
Jewish Student Union (JSU): 
JSU is a national organization with over 250 Jewish 
culture clubs on public high school campuses. The 
clubs provide Jewish teens with programs that 
strengthen their Jewish identity and connection to 
Israel by creating a fun, social atmosphere. Currently 
there is a club at White Station High School. 
Movie Machshava 
6th-8th Graders join Rabbi Mordechai Harris in 
his home for a popular movie and delicious nosh 
followed by a discussion designed to help flush out 
the messages being transmitted by the film and to 
evaluate how these messages may or may not be in 
line with our personal and religious values. 
Dates: Nov 15, Dec 13, Jan 17, Feb 21, March 21, 
April 18, May 16 
FAMILY PROGRAMMING 
Family Outings 
Periodically, Baron Hirsch organizes a Sunday family 
outing. These outings, while predominantly focused 
on creating social occasions, will also attempt to tie in 
thematically with nearby holidays. 
Kickoff Event: Sunday, September 21st 
2:30 PM – 4:00 PM 
Pre-Rosh Hashanah Apple Picking at Jones Orchard 
Musical Havdalah 
Once a month when the clocks have changed and 
Shabbat ends early enough, Baron Hirsch invites 
families to join for a musical Havdalah service filled with 
singing, stories, and upbeat dancing to end the night. 
Pre-Holiday Craft Programs 
Children 3-6 years of age and their parents are invited 
to meet at Baron Hirsch leading up to the various 
holidays for a chance to create, learn, and eat. With 
each holiday a different hands on arts and crafts 
project will be offered, Rabbi Mordechai Harris will be 
there to teach about the holidays. 
Dates: Oct 5 (Pre-Sukkot), Dec 7 (Pre-Chanukah), 
Feb 1 (Pre-Tu B’Shvat), Feb 22 (Pre-Purim), 
March 29, (Pre-Pesach), May 17 (Pre-Shavuot).
24 
SHABBAT PROGRAMS 
EACH SHABBAT our youth are divided into age appropriate groups designed to instill positive 
associations with Shul and Teffilah, as well as educate about the weekly Torah portion and any upcoming holidays. 
BABYSITTING 
Supervised free play for children 1 – 2 years old. This 
program runs for the duration of the morning service 
on all Shabbat & Holiday mornings. Diaper changing 
and snack provided. 
TORAH TOTS 
A program for 3 year old – Kindergarten aged 
students combining babysitting from the start of 
morning services until 10:45 AM, when the group 
transitions into structured play, age appropriate 
Tefilla, and Parsha instruction. Snack provided. 
JR. CONGREGATION 
Children in 1st - 5th Grade enjoy supervised free play 
and a snack until 10:30 AM, after which they transition 
into a beginners Tefillah service and engaging Parsha 
based competitions led by Rabbi Harris. The Jr. 
Congregation group will be brought into services to 
lead the main Minyan from Ein Kelokeinu onward. 
PARSHA PROJECT 
Students in 6th-8th grade who find themselves in 
need of a break in the services are invited to step out 
at 10:30 AM for a chance to participate in engaging 
conversations around issues and ideas raised in the 
weekly Parsha. They will also enjoy a brief Kiddush 
and Snack before rejoining the congregation for 
Mussaf. Location to be announced. 
CHUG MISHNAYOT 
2nd-5th graders join Rabbi Mordechai Harris on 
Shabbat afternoons half an hour before Mincha 
to study Mishnayot together. Students are also 
encouraged to sign up for the weekly Chazarah 
Challenge, an opportunity to review with their 
parents and research a special question, thereby 
earning a raffle ticket for a grand drawing at the end 
of the year. 
TOT SHABBAT/HOLIDAYS 
Once a month, parents are encouraged to join their 
children (1 - 2 years old) in their Shabbat morning 
group room at 10:45 AM for a special prayer service 
designed for your children featuring songs, stories, 
and a snack kiddush. Parents who would like to be a 
volunteer leader should contact Rabbi Harris. 
Dates: Sep 13, Oct 11, Nov 8, Dec 20, Jan 10, Feb 
14, March 14, April 11, and May 25. 
SHABBAT CJET 
Marc Lennon leads an engaging and interactive class 
for teenagers. While the class is aimed at teens who 
are not currently attending Jewish day school, and 
teen who wishes to learn is welcome. The class meets 
in the Leach Youth Lounge at 10:30 AM Shabbat 
Morning. 
CHIDON HATANACH 
Beginning after the fall holidays, Moreh Shimshon 
Soleman gives a special class for teens who are 
competing in the national bible contest. Baron 
Hirsch is proud to give space to this ambitious and 
talented group of students from the MHA/FYOS for 
this extra weekly study session. Meets in the Hanover 
Library, 45 minutes before Shabbat Mincha 
YOUTH
YOUTH 
TEEN ISRAEL PROGRAM/CAMP DAROM 
25 
TEEN ISRAEL PROGRAM – ISRAEL 
INTROSPECTED 
Building on the success of our Israel Advocacy and 
Teen Leadership programs, Baron Hirsch is proud to 
offer a new teen program – Israel Introspected. This 
new curriculum seeks to create ideological affinity 
through challenging teens to engage Israel in her 
full complexity as a modern democratic, and yet 
particularly Jewish, State. This is accomplished by 
addressing core questions pertaining to the necessity 
and significance of the Jewish national enterprise; 
how a Jewish state should exercise power; why a Jew 
who lives outside of Israel should care about Israel; 
and what the State of Israel can offer the world. 
The curriculum will also grapple with some of the 
significant internal challenges Israel faces such as the 
secular/religious divide, creating space for non-Jews 
and growing economic divides. 
Participants will be able to participate in our teen 
delegation to the AIPAC National Policy Conference, 
with some receiving scholarships towards the 
conference expenses. 
CAMP DAROM 
Our 39th Season – July 2-29, 2015 
Since 1976, Baron Hirsch has run Camp Darom, 
the first, and still the only overnight camp under 
Orthodox auspices in the entire South. Over the 
years, we have attracted campers from the Southern, 
Midwest, and West Coast States. Our greatest 
testimonial is the large number of campers who 
return year after year, and even the many second 
generation campers who now attend. 
Nestled on the scenic shores of beautiful Lake 
Grenada, Mississippi, our camp offers a combination 
of all of the traditional and extreme fun camp 
activities, with a strong focus on a modern orthodox 
approach to Torah and an emphasis on Zionism and 
the State of Israel. 
Camp Darom is under the direction of Rabbi Avichai 
Pepper, who joins us with his family each summer 
from their home in Silver Spring, Maryland. Rabbi 
Pepper has over 15 years of camp administrative 
experience and has been with Camp Darom since 
2008. Both he and his wife Alanna (born in Memphis) 
are veteran teachers. 
Watch for exciting announcements about our 2015 
summer, including reunion Shabbatons that will be 
held this winter in Memphis and Atlanta!
26 
COMMUNITY SERVICE 
CHESED 
CHESED BOX PACKING 
AND DELIVERING 
Over the past ten years, twice each year, before the 
major holiday seasons, Baron Hirsch members meet 
to pack and deliver food boxes to some 100 needy 
families in the Memphis area. 
Sunday, September 21st, 2014 
10:00 AM at the synagogue 
Packing of Rosh Hashanah Boxes 
Sunday, March 29th, 2015 
10:00 AM at the synagogue 
Packing of Pesach Boxes 
Private donations are welcome to help support this 
important project. 
MEMPHIS JEWISH HOME 
BIRTHDAY PARTIES 
Both our Men’s Club and Sisterhood assist by 
sponsoring one of the monthly birthday parties held 
for residents of the Memphis Jewish Home. On the 
given month, volunteers go to the home for the 
party, sponsor birthday cake for all, and give presents 
to those celebrating a birthday. 
BLOOD DRIVES 
Baron Hirsch runs periodic blood drives to help 
those throughout the community who are in need of 
blood. We occasionally have the mobile unit at the 
synagogue for a specific event, but members are also 
encouraged to visit a LifeBlood office to donate. 
SHIVA COMMITTEE 
Our shiva committee is always there to help provide 
assistance and comfort to a family who has suffered 
a loss. Our minyan group is available to bring Shiva 
chairs and siddurim to a family in Shiva, and to help 
make sure a minyan is present. Members of the 
Chesed department also bring a selection of baked 
goods to a person’s home as well. 
KABBALAT SHABBAT AT THE 
MEMPHIS JEWISH HOME 
Once a month, a member of our staff conducts a 
special Kabbalat Shabbat service for residents at the 
Memphis Jewish Home. If you would like to volunteer 
to assist, please contact the synagogue office.
COMMUNITY SERVICE 
COMMUNITY PARTNERS 
BARON HIRSCH is a proud co-sponsor or participant in many great events in the Memphis Jewish 
community, which reach across a number of agencies. 
27 
MHA/FYOS ISRAEL MARCH 
Each year, the student body, faculty and parent body 
of the Margolin Hebrew Academy/Feinstone Yeshiva 
of the South celebrate Israel Independence Day with 
a march through the streets of East Memphis. A sea 
of blue and white march, sing, and dance their way 
from the school to Baron Hirsch, where they hear 
inspirational words from our Rabbi, and we provide 
them with refreshments. The students then meet in 
our sanctuary for Mincha, after which there is music 
and more dancing until dismissal. 
ISRAEL FEST 
June 7, 2015 
Baron Hirsch is a proud sponsor of the Memphis 
Friend of Israel and its annual Israel Fest and 5K 
run. This event attracts thousands of participants, 
promotes the importance of American support for 
Israel. Israel Fest offers authentic music, food, culture, 
activities and more for those who attend throughout 
the community. 
YOM HASHOAH ANNUAL 
COMMEMORATION 
For 48 years the Memphis Jewish Federation has 
organized a community wide commemoration 
of Holocaust Remembrance Day. Baron Hirsch 
Congregation joins with all of the other Memphis 
congregations in its support of this special event. The 
date for the 2015 commemoration will be announced. 
COMMUNITY MEN’S CLUB EVENT 
Seven years ago, our Men’s Club was instrumental 
in organizing the Men’s Clubs of all Memphis 
congregations for a joint event celebrating good food 
and wonderful fellowship. 
ASBEE BBQ 
Our sister congregation, Anshei Sphard Beth El 
Emeth, hosts the largest Kosher BBQ contest in the 
country.
28 
STAFF BIOGRAPHIES 
RABBI SHAI FINKELSTEIN | SENIOR RABBI 
A native of Israel, Rabbi Finkelstein was ordained by the Chief Rabbinate of Israel and 
received certification by Rabbi Yisrael Meir Lau, the eminent former Chief Rabbi of 
Israel. He more recently received a higher ordination by the Association of Rabbinic 
Judges in Jerusalem, which certifies him to serve as a judge in an Israeli Monetary Court 
of Law. Rabbi Finkelstein has been in Memphis since 2000 and served as the Rosh 
Kollel of the Kollel Torah MiTzion housed at the Margolian Hebrew Academy. 
RABBI MORDECHAI HARRIS | TEEN RABBI & OUTREACH 
DIRECTOR 
Rabbi Mordechai Harris is a graduate of Yeshivat Chovevei Torah Rabbinical School. He 
is the current Teen Rabbi and Outreach Director at Baron Hirsch and previously he was 
the Youth Rabbi at the Hebrew Institute of White Plains. He has spent close to 15 years 
working in the area of informal and experiential Jewish education including serving as 
the Associate Director and Jr NCSY Director for Upstate NY NCSY. 
CANTOR RICKY KAMPF | CANTOR 
Cantor Ricky Kampf has been associated with Baron Hirsch since 1989. In his first 
years, he served the congregation as the assistant Shalich Tzibur and Executive 
Director. He received his cantorial degree from the Belz School of Jewish Music and 
currently serves as the congregation’s Cantor. His Kabbalat Shabbat service every Friday 
night fills the synagogue with excitement and energy, and his holiday work with both 
our Men’s and Boys’ Choirs make the High Holy Days very meaningful. He also is a 
master Bar Mitzvah teacher, who has taught Torah reading and davening to countless 
boys throughout the city. 
DAVID FLEISCHHACKER | EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 
David Fleischhacker was appointed to the position of Executive Director in 2003. 
He received his M.B.A from Baruch College in New York, and his B.S. from Yeshiva 
University. A native Memphian, Mr. Fleischhacker has many fond memories of Baron 
Hirsch, especially of the years he attended Camp Darom. Starting as a camper at a 
young age, he grew to serve the camp in many different capacities, including being its 
Director for several seasons. Prior to his return to Memphis, Mr. Fleischhacker was a lay 
leader of Congregation Etz Chaim of Kew Gardens Hills.
STAFF BIOGRAPHIES 
RABBI DAVID RADINSKY | MAGID SHIUR 
Rabbi Radinsky is the Rabbi Emeritus of Brith Sholom Beth Israel Congregation in 
Charleston, South Carolina, where he served as Senior Rabbi from 1970-2004. He 
studied at Yeshiva Univeristy where he obtained his B.A. in History and Hebrew in 
1963, an M.A. in Semitic Studies from the Bernard Revel Graduate School and Rabbinic 
Ordination from the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary in 1966. 
RABBI AVICHAI PEPPER | DIRECTOR OF CAMP DAROM 
Rabbi Avichai Pepper is the Director of Lower School Student Programming at the 
Melvin J. Berman Hebrew Academy in Maryland. He is a veteran teacher who has taught 
previously at the Phoenix Hebrew Academy and Seattle Hebrew Academy. Rabbi Pepper 
has been working in Jewish summer camps for many years. Before joining Camp Darom 
in 2008, he served as the Assistant Director of Camp Dora Golding. 
MARC LENNON 
Marc Lennon has been the City Director of NCSY since moving to Memphis in 2008. He 
began the first Jewish student club in a Memphis public school, as well as a successful 
learning program for high school students not attending Jewish day school (CJET). 
Marc enjoys helping teenagers connect to their Jewish heritage in a meaningful way for 
themselves. 
MR. SHIMSHON SOLEMAN 
Moreh Shimshon, as he is affectionately known by his many students, is a Hebrew 
teacher at the Margolin Hebrew Academy, and head of the Hebrew Department for the 
Upper School. He and his wife, Yehudit, are masters of the Tal Am program, a Hebrew 
language immersion program used with great success in many schools. They have 
taught in communities in several different countries around the world, including Canada 
and Switzerland. 
29
30 
CALENDAR 
SEP 
10 Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon 
15 Book Club: “The Pity of It All” 
20 Pre-Selichot Kumsitz 
21 Chesed Box Packing 
21 Family Apple Picking 
27 Shabbat Shuva Drasha 
29 Meet the Sofer 
OCT 
4 Yom Kippur Teach In 
11 Sukkah Hop/Treasure Hunt 
12 Family Sukkah Party 
13 Men’s Club Simchat Beit HaShoeva 
& Bourbon Tasting 
14 Chol HaMoed Youth Day 
16 Simchat Torah Hakafot & Dinner 
17 Simchat Torah Lunch 
17 Women’s Torah Study 
24-25 Shabbat Project 
26 Café Simcha 
26 Artists Ascending Concert: Michael Sikich 
31 Young Professionals Shabbat Dinner 
NOV 
17 Book Club: “A Murder in Lemberg” 
19 Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon 
21-22 Scholar-in-Residence Dr. Smadar 
& Rabbi Michael Rosenweig 
DEC 
4-7 Israeli Art Show 
17 Chanukah Dinner 
JAN 
11 David Finkelstein Memorial Lecture 
11 Annual Membership Meeting 
16 Family Shabbat Dinner 
16 -17 Scholar-in-Residence Rabbi Meir Soloveichik 
18 100 Man Minyan 
21 Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon 
26 Book Club: “The Rebbe” 
FEB 
6 Family Shabbat Dinner 
6-7 Scholar-in-Residence Dr. Mordechai Kedar 
18 Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon 
MAR 
1-3 AIPAC National Policy Conference 
5 Purim Seudah & Carnival 
12-15 Midwest NCSY Regional Shabbat at Baron Hirsch 
18 Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon 
20 Family Shabbat Dinner 
20-21 Scholar-in-Residence Rabbi Menachem Leibtag 
22 Annual Congregational Dinner 
23 Book Club: “Wonder of Wonders” 
28 Shabbat HaGadol Drasha 
29 Chesed Box Packing
31 
APR 
7 Chol HaMoed Youth Day 
22 Yom HaAtzmaut Service & Celebration 
MAY 
1-2 Scholar-In-Residence Rabbi Benjamin Blech 
3 Café Simcha 
20 Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon 
23 Tikkun Leil Shavuot 
JUN 
6 Graduation Kiddush 
8 Book Club: “Like Dreamers” 
17 Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon 
19-20 Scholars-in-Residence Rabbi Ronen and Dr. Pnina Neuwirth 
JUL 
2 Camp Darom Begins 
15 Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon 
25 Tisha B’Av Lecture 
AUG 
5 Yahrtzeit Lecture by Rabbi David Radinsky 
19 Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon 
CALENDAR
Baron Hirsch Program Guide 2014-2015/5775

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Baron Hirsch Program Guide 2014-2015/5775

  • 2. IN MEMORY OF Frances and Bennie Mendelson, A”H The most loving, helpful, considerate, people I have ever known. My parents instilled hope and kindness in our family every day. They both taught and inspired by example and generated so much goodness and strength without ever having to mention those words. It was a blessing more than we can ever express for them to be our dear parents and grandparents. Paul Mendelson Family “A crown of a good name surpasses them all.” Pirkei Avot, Chapter 4, Mishnah 17
  • 3. TABLE OF CONTENTS Dedication 2 Welcome from the Senior Rabbi 4 Synagogue Directory 5 EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE Scholars-in-Residence 6 Weekly Classes/Daily Services 8 Annual Events/Special Classes 10 Israel 12 PRAYER & HOLIDAY PROGRAMS Shabbat 13 Holiday Programs 14 Shabbat 2014 16 PROGRAMMING Annual Events 17 Clubs 18 Israeli Art Show 21 YOUTH Annual Events 22 Weekly & Monthly Events 23 Shabbat 24 Teen Israel Program & Camp Darom 25 COMMUNITY Chesed 26 Community Partners 27 Staff Biographies 28 Calendar-at-a Glance 30
  • 4. WELCOME FROM THE SENIOR RABBI Dear Friends: Unique, special, vibrant, full of life and laughter, growing, learning, sharing, caring, chesed, love for Torah, Israel and every human being, are just few of the adjectives and beliefs that come to my mind when I think about our beloved Baron Hirsch. Our membership’s tapestry is combined of so many members from so many backgrounds that create a beautiful mosaic. Our educational programs and learning opportunities for all ages provide each one of you the opportunity to learn and grow on your individual level and enhance your knowledge and life. Our Israel classes and programs enrich our commitment to our beloved State of Israel and our involvement with Israel advocacy is admired nationally. Last year we celebrated a historical milestone - our 150th anniversary - in a meaningful and elegant way. We are among only a few congregations in the United States who have such an amazing and glorious past, and it should make us very proud and hopeful for a bright future. When we see the growth of our community despite the challenges, and when we see the large attendance of people who come to learn, daven and participate in chesed, we know that our future is strong and stable. Baron Hirsch offers a full range of services and classes for adults, teens and children. Adult Education opportunities abound with the Israel Affairs class, Mini-Guest Lecture Series, Education Minyan, Women’s Parsha class, Living Room classes, Jewish History class, Lunch and Learn class, Shabbat Afternoon class, Jewish History Book Club, special classes and so much more. Our Scholars-in-Residence weekends throughout the year provide Shabbat enrichment and real opportunities to explore different areas of our tradition. The Baron Hirsch Youth Department features a wide array of activities for children of all ages, including our new Tot Shabbat, the increasingly popular Israel Advocacy Program, Camp Darom, as well as Torah study and more. Seniors always enjoy the monthly Kol Rena So-Shuls luncheons. The Baron Hirsch Sisterhood, Men’s Club, Chesed Committee, Kiddush Corps and Knitting Group all offer numerous volunteer opportunities to help make our shul and our community a better place. We are proud to present to you this Guide to your growth, which contains virtually everything you need to know about the upcoming year at Baron Hirsch: our Educational Institute, Scholar-in-Residence Shabbats, holiday and congregational events, Youth Department and general information. We would be thrilled to see you and your family at our programs throughout the year, and we look forward to the opportunity to serve your needs. The events and programs presented by the synagogue have only two requirements — they need your attendance and your support to ensure our continued growth and diversity! We invite you to scan these pages and discover which window leads to your Jewish community experience. With much love, Shai Finkelstein
  • 5. BARON HIRSCH STAFF Rabbi Shai Finkelstein | Senior Rabbi rabbi@baronhirsch.org Cantor Ricky Kampf | Cantor cantor@baronhirsch.org Rabbi Mordechai Harris Teen Rabbi & Outreach Director rabbimordechai@baronhirsch.org David Fleischhacker | Executive Director exec@baronhirsch.org Gwen Moody | Administrative Assistant gwen@baronhirsch.org April Blankenship | Administrative Assistant april@baronhirsch.org SYNAGOGUE DIRECTORY Baron Hirsch Congregation 400 S. Yates Road Memphis, TN 38120 (901) 683-7485 For program updates and changes, visit us online: www.baronhirsch.org BARON HIRSCH OFFICERS Pace Cooper | President Morris Thomas | 1st Vice President David Mendelson | 2nd Vice President Dr. Ellis Tavin | Vice President Adam Groveman | Vice President Sarah Thomas | Treasurer Mary Trotz | Secretary David Cooper | Gabbai Rishon Elliot Wender | Gabbai Shayne Dr. Naftali Klein | Ass’t Gabbai Louis Safier | Ass’t Gabbai Gerald Ballin | Warden   Baron Hirsch is on Facebook. Find us! Visit our YouTube channel for current and archived videos: www.youtube.com/ BaronHirschMemphis  Add your name to our email list by sending a request to april@baronhirsch.org
  • 6. 6 EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE SCHOLARS IN RESIDENCE BARON HIRSCH is proud to bring the best of scholarship to Memphis from across the United States and Israel. Each of our weekends includes several presentations with our visiting scholars, along with the opportunity for congregants to get to meet and know these outstanding speakers on a personal level. Visit our website at www.baronhirsch.org prior to each visit to see the exact schedule of presentations. The Baron Hirsch Scholars-in-Residence program is sponsored by Larisa & Ben Baer. NOVEMBER 21 – 22 | PROFESSOR SMADAR & RABBI MICHAEL ROSENSWEIG Rabbi Michael Rosensweig occupies the Nathan and Perel Schupf Chair in Talmud at RIETS. He is a 1980 graduate of Yeshiva College, and earned an M.A. and a Ph.D. from the Bernard Revel Graduate School. After receiving semicha, Rabbi Rosensweig was among the first group to complete the intensive post-graduate studies in RIETS’ Caroline and Joseph S. Gruss Kollel Elyon, and was appointed a Rosh Yeshiva in 1985. Dr. Smadar Rosensweig is a professor of Bible at Stern College for Women at Yeshiva University, as well as a professor of biblical studies at Allegra Franco Sephardic Women’s Teachers College. Previously, she was a professor of Judaic studies and history at Touro College. Dr. Rosensweig received a master’s degree in philosophy and a master’s degree in arts from Columbia University. She gives shiurim and lectures throughout the metropolitan area and across the country. JANUARY 16 - 17 | RABBI DR. MEIR SOLOVEICHIK Rabbi Meir Soloveichik is a leading Jewish thinker, theologian, and public intellectual. He obtained his Rabbinic ordination from Yeshiva University and holds a Ph.D. from Princeton in Religion. He currently serves as the Director of the Straus Center for Torah and Western Thought at Yeshiva University, and is the Senior Rabbi of Congregation Shearith Israel, the Spanish & Portuguese Synagogue, in Manhattan. FEBRUARY 6 - 7 | PROFESSOR MORDECHAI KEDAR Dr. Mordechai Kedar is a Lecturer on Arabic and Islamic Studies and an Assistant Professor at Bar-Ilan University. His areas of research include Islam, Islamic Movements, gender issues in Islam, Arabic mass media, popular culture in the Arab world, state and society in the Arab world. He is a frequent guest on Al Jezeera, and served as a Lieutenant Colonel in the IDF Military Intelligence unit.
  • 7. 7 EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE MARCH 20 - 21 | RABBI MENACHEM LEIBTAG Rabbi Menachem Leibtag, is an internationally acclaimed bible scholar and pioneer of Jewish Education on the internet. His vibrant thematic-analytical approach blends the methods of modern academic scholarship with traditional Jewish approaches to the Biblical text. He is best known for his ability to teach students how to study rather than simply read Biblical passages. Rabbi Leibtag teaches at Yeshivat Har Etzion, Yeshivat Shaalavim, Midreshet Lindenbaum, and at Yeshiva University’s Gruss Center, and routinely lectures around the globe. MAY 1 - 2 | RABBI BENJAMIN BLECH Rabbi Benjamin Blech is an internationally recognized educator, religious leader, author, and lecturer. He is Rabbi Emeritus of Young Israel of Oceanside, which he served for 37 years. A recipient of the American Educator of the Year Award, he has been a Professor of Talmud at Yeshiva University since 1966. Rabbi Blech is the author of fifteen highly acclaimed and bestselling books. He is also a past President of both the National Council of Young Israel Rabbis, as well as the International League for the Repatriation of Russian Jewry. Rabbi Blech has also served as officer for the New York Board of Rabbis as well as the Rabbinical Council of America. JUNE 19 - 20 | RABBI RONEN & DR. PNINA NEUWIRTH Rabbi Neuwirth is serving as the Rabbi of Ohel Ari (Minyan Chadash) Congregation in Ra’annana. He is the executive director of the Beit Hillel organization in Israel. He combines his work as a Rabbi and teacher with work as Chief Technology Officer for a hi-tech company. Dr. Pnina Neuwirth is a judge, formerly a lawyer, specializing in Tax and Commercial law in Israel. She holds a Bachelor degree and a Master’s degree in Tax Law from the Hebrew University and a Ph.D. in the field of International Taxation of E-commerce from Haifa University. She also teaches in a number of seminaries. From 2004 until 2006 Pnina was a visiting professor at Stern College for women in the US, teaching Jewish Studies and Jewish Philosophy. She was also the writer of a column “Women in the Bible” for the Makor Rishon paper in Israel.
  • 8. 8 EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE WEEKLY CLASSES/DAILY SERVICES SUNDAYS World Events Class - See page 12 TUESDAYS Call Torah – Rabbi Shai Finkelstein Watch Rabbi Finkelstein give a short class on the weekly parsha. Watch on your computer, your iPad, or your mobile device via YouTube. Archived classes can be viewed on Baron Hirsch’s YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/BaronHirschMemphis Basic Jewish Concepts – Cantor Ricky Kampf 7:00 PM (times may vary in some seasons in order not to conflict with Mincha) - Margolin Beit Midrash Cantor Kampf will help you navigate through basic Jewish concepts, as well as guiding you through the Jewish calendar. WEDNESDAYS Ladies Parsha Class – Rabbi Shai Finkelstein/ Rabbi Mordechai Harris 10:30 AM – I.E. Hanover Library. The weekly Parsha is always an exciting text. For thousands of years, Jews have learned the parsha and always found relevant messages to their life. In this interactive class, participants will learn about the parsha in depth. This is a great way to be ready for Shabbat. Lunch & Learn – Rabbi Shai Finkelstein/ Rabbi Mordechai Harris Noon – I.E. Hanover Library. Enjoy a delicious lunch along with a class on the weekly parsha. This is a class were discussion is encouraged and participants reach a conclusion together. Jewish History – Rabbi David Radinsky 7:00 PM (times may vary in some seasons in order not to conflict with Mincha) - Margolin Beit Midrash Covering topics throughout Jewish history, the class is currently focused on learning about the history of anti-semitism from the 19th through the 21st centuries in Europe and the Middle East. SHABBAT Weekly Parsha – Rabbi Shai Finkelstein Shabbat mornings, 15 minutes before services A fifteen minute class before Shacharit on themes in the weekly parsha. Shabbat Afternoon Class – Rabbi Shai Finkelstein Shabbat: 45 minutes before Mincha in the Margolin Beit Midrash. The Talmud is the pillar of our Oral Torah. It’s the foundation of our teachings and Jewish law. Tractate Brachot explores the history, mindset, and the teachings of our sayings regarding prayer and blessings.
  • 9. EDEDUUCACTAITOINONAAL LI NINSTSITTIUTUTETE WEEKLY CLASSES/DAILY SERVICES 9 BARON HIRSCH offers numerous daily services which allow our congregants to participate in the great mitzvah of public prayer. On weekdays we have two morning minyanim each day, the first one meeting in the Hanover Library, and the second meeting in the Margolin Beit Midrash. There is one minyan for Mincha & Maariv each evening in the Beit Midrash. While most service times follow the basic schedule below, exact times each week can be found on our website at www.baronhirsch.org SHACHARIT SERVICES Sunday 7:00 AM or 8:00 AM Monday, Thursday, Rosh Chodesh 6:20 AM or 6:45 AM Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 6:30 AM or 7:00 AM MINCHA/MAARIV Sunday-Thursday 15 minutes before sunset DAILY LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES Baron Hirsch offers two opportunities for short daily Torah study centered around minyanim. Immediately following the first morning minyan, Rabbi Mordechai Harris shares a quick Dvar Halacha – a basic rule of Jewish practice – which pertains either to our daily activity, to prayer, or to the season of the year. In the afternoon, both Rabbi Finkelstein and Rabbi Harris give a short class in Jewish thought between Mincha and Maariv. The topic may be parsha or holiday related, or they may study a book of Jewish philosophy or practice.
  • 10. 10 EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE ANNUAL EVENTS / SPECIAL CLASSES SHABBAT SHUVA DRASHA Shabbat, September 27th, 2014 at 5:00 PM Given by Rabbi Shai Finkelstein “Guilt, Shame, & Repentance through the Eyes of Willard Gaylin, Maimonides, & Rabbi Soloveichik” It is traditional for the Rabbi of a congregation to give a special lecture on the Shabbat between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. This class, which attracts more than 100 people, gives members of the community a chance to learn not only the laws of the upcoming holiday of Yom Kippur, but to prepare for this important day in a more inspirational manner. Childcare available for ages 2-6. Sponsored by a Friend of Baron Hirsch in Support of Jewish Continuity YOM KIPPUR TEACH IN Shabbat, October 4th, 2014 at 3:30 PM Yom Kippur is not just a day of prayer, but can be a day of Torah learning and growth as well. At this important time, we strive to use every moment of the day, including the hour break between the Musaf and Mincha services. “The High Priest from a Religious, Philosophical & Psychological Perspective” Given by Rabbi Shai Finkelstein Teshuva: A Time to Repair, a Time to Rebuild Given by Rabbi Mordechai Harris Dedicated in memory of William Cohn, A”H, by his family WOMEN’S SIMCHAT TORAH DIVREI TORAH Friday, October 17th, 2014 at 11:00 AM Now in its fifth year, this is a special Simchat Torah celebration, just for women! Join us in the Bet Midrash for Divrei Torah and a special Kiddush. Various women from within the congregation will speak. Following the program, everyone will come together in the sanctuary for the children’s Aliya and the completion of the reading of the Torah. SHABBAT HAGADOL DRASHA Shabbat, March 28th, 2015 at 5:30 PM Given by Rabbi Shai Finkelstein On the Shabbat before Passover, it is the custom for the Rabbi of a congregation to give a special lecture. This class, which attracts more than 100 people, gives members of the community a chance to learn not only the laws of the upcoming holiday, but to prepare for the upcoming holiday in a more inspirational manner. Childcare available for ages 2-6.
  • 11. EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE ANNUAL EVENTS/SPECIAL CLASSES 11 TIKKUN LEIL SHAVUOT Saturday night, May 23rd, 2015 at Midnight Shavuot celebrates the receiving of the Torah on Mt. Sinai. It is a beautiful custom to spend the entire night of Shavuot immersed in Torah study, to show our love of Torah and our anticipation in reenacting G-d’s revelation. All night classes by Rabbi Finkelstein, Rabbi Harris, and other community scholars. Teen and pre-teen programs, all ending with morning services. TISHA B’AV PROGRAM Saturday, July 25th - Sunday, July 26th, 2015 Given by Rabbi Shai Finkelstein The themes and ideas of Tisha B’Av are often difficult for us to understand, for we are so many years distant from the destruction of Jerusalem which the day commemorates. Our Tisha B’Av program includes a class by Rabbi Finkelstein following Eichah at night, explanations of the Kinot during Shacharit, and special video presentations in the afternoon. MEMORIAL LECTURES Sunday, January 11, 2015 at 7:30 PM Given by Rabbi Shai Finkelstein Rabbi Finkelstein will deliver this annual yarhzeit lecture in memory of his father David, A”H. The topic will be “Honoring Parents in Challenging Times.” Rabbi Finkelstein will explore the delicate situation of the commandment to honor our parents and situations where the parent’s behavior is affected by old age, Alzheimer or other diseases. Wednesday, August 5, 2015 at 6:45 PM Given by Rabbi David Radinsky Rabbi Radinsky gives his annual yahrtzeit class in memory of Jack & Lillian Radinsky, A”H, and Herman Cooper, A”H. MEET THE SOFER Monday, September 29, 2014 at 6:00 PM Eyal Sapir, a certified Sofer (scribe) gives an informative class on what is involved in checking tefillin and mezuzot. Congregants can also bring their own mezuzot and tefillin to Eyal and arrange to have him check them. New items will be available for sale.
  • 12. 12 EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTE ISRAEL I.E. HANOVER LECTURE ON WORLD AFFAIRS Sundays, 9:00 AM in the Hanover Library Led by Rabbi Shai Finkelstein As Jews, the State of Israel is an essential part of our life. Since its establishment, Israel has faced challenges as it continues to build itself to be one of the leading countries in the world. In this course, we will discuss current events that influence Israel, the Middle East, and the entire world. SPECIAL SHABBAT ISRAEL CLASSES Shabbat Afternoons, 45 minutes before Mincha in the Margolin Beit Midrash Led by Rabbi Shai Finkelstein Our connection to Israel is part of our identity. Rabbi Finkelstein analyzes the situation in Israel from both geopolitical and military perspectives. AIPAC POLICY CONFERENCE March 1-3, 2015 Washington Convention Center, Washington, D.C. This mission of AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee) is to strengthen, protect and promote the U.S.-Israel relationship in ways that enhance the security of Israel and the United States. YOM HAATZMAUT Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 at 7:00 PM Each year, Baron Hirsch joins with the community to celebrate Israel Independence Day with prayer, song and joyous celebration. This year’s celebration of the 67th Anniversary of the State of Israel will be no different. Please join us as we gather this year to observe the holiday at our sister congregation, Anshei Sphard Beth El Emeth. MEMPHIS FRIENDS OF ISRAEL Memphis Friends of Israel is a pro-active, non-denominational, non-political, non-profit organization whose mission is to educate the Mid-South community about the positive aspects of Israeli society and about the value of American support for Israel.
  • 13. PRAYER & HOLIDAY PROGRAMS SHABBAT 13 CARLEBACH KABBALAT SHABBAT Friday evenings 15 minutes before sunset; 6:45 PM during Daylight Savings Time. Baron Hirsch’s Friday night service is the most popular service of the week, as Cantor Kampf welcomes the Shabbat with the joyful and inspirational tunes of Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach, A”H. Come join us and be a part of this weekly celebration - men, women and children are all welcome. If you don’t yet know the tunes, start by just clapping along – you’ll pick up the melody quickly! SHABBAT MORNING MINYAN 9:00 AM Come pray with us in a warm and friendly morning service featuring the traditional Saturday morning prayers in a stimulating and comfortable environment. Through his weekly sermon, Rabbi Finkelstein invites the congregation to learn with him a timely message of the Torah portion. Cantor Kampf’s melodious voice leads all those who attend in joyous song. We make every effort to make everyone who comes feel comfortable and a part of the service. Following services each week, our congregants enjoy a delicious Kiddush where they can socialize and meet new people. LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES Shabbat presents numerous opportunities for Torah Study at Baron Hirsch. See page 8 for details. SEUDAH SHLISHIT Every Saturday afternoon, we bring Shabbat to a meaningful close with Seudah Shlishit – the third Shabbat meal. Join us in the Parker- Margolin Tabernacle for this light dinner, and enjoy the company of others in the congregation. There is always great conversation, song, and a Dvar Torah from the Rabbi. There is no chage and reservations are not required. Many members choose to sponsor a Seudah Shlishit to honor the memory of a loved one on the occasion of his or her yahrtzeit. If you would like to sponsor a particular Shabbat, please contact the office. YOUTH PROGRAMS Baron Hirsch offers a variety of Shabbat youth programs in both the morning and afternoon, including Junior Congregation, a Teen Minyan, and several learning programs. See page 24 for details.
  • 14. 14 PRAYER & HOLIDAY PROGRAMS HOLIDAY PROGRAMS PRE-SELICHOT KUMSITZ Saturday, September 21, 2014 at 9:00 PM Come early and get into the mood of the High Holy Days with an uplifting Kumsitz featuring the Niggunim & Teffilot (tunes and prayers) of the Days of Awe with the accompaniment of musical instruments. Refreshments, including a coffee & latte bar, will be served. Selichot services will follow at 10:00PM. FAMILY SUKKAH PARTY Sunday, October 12th, 2014 at 5:00 PM Celebrate the festival of joy in and around the Baron Hirsch Sukkah. Food, live music, rides, balloons, and fun for everyone. There is always something new at the Baron Hirsch Sukkah Party. MEN’S CLUB SIMCHAT BEIT HASHOEVA TISCH WITH BOURBON TASTING AND BBQ Monday, October 13th, 2014 at 7:00 PM Join us for this adult only event in the Baron Hirsch Sukkah which celebrates the festival with words of Torah, song, a bourbon tasting and bbq specialties. RSVP in the shul office. $20 per person. WOMEN’S SIMCHAT TORAH HAKAFOT Thursday, October 16th, 2014 at 7:00 PM At Baron Hirsch, women are invited and encouraged to participate in the dancing and singing during the hakafot on Simchat Torah. Come participate in this meaningful and joyous celebration! SIMCHAT TORAH HAKAFOT & DINNER Thursday, October 16th, 2014 at 7:00 PM The most exciting, fast paced, Simchat Torah Hakafot in the world with singing, dancing, candy bags, prizes, and a complimentary dinner afterwards. Dinner Sponsored by Sue Ann & Bernard Lipsey. SIMCHAT TORAH LUNCH Friday, October 17th, 2014 at 1:15 PM As the holiday season concludes, there is nothing better than joining with our shul family for a congregation-wide Simchat Torah Lunch, which immediately follows our joyous Simchat Torah Hakafot and services. Take a break from your holiday cooking and join with our family. RSVP in advance to the synagogue office. Sponsored by Sue Ann & Bernard Lipsey.
  • 15. PRAYER & HOLIDAY PROGRAMS HOLIDAY PROGRAMS 15 CHANUKAH DINNER Wednesday, December 17th, 2014 at 5:30 PM Share the light and warmth of Chanukah at our fun-filled Chanukah Dinner. In addition to the delicious holiday menu, there is always a festive atmosphere with lots of children’s activities. RSVP to the synagogue office. PURIM SEUDAH & CARNIVAL Thursday, March 5th, 2015 There is nothing like a Baron Hirsch holiday celebration, and there is no celebration quite like the Baron Hirsch Purim Seudah. In addition to great food, live music, and a lot of fun, there are also numerous children’s activities – with the focal point being our annual Purim Carnival. This year promises to be to have new games, great prizes, a lot of surprises, and our famous Tisch. WOMEN’S MEGILLAH READING Thursday, March 5th, 2015 at 11:00 AM This past year, for the first time, Baron Hirsch held a special Megillah reading on Purim day - prepared by women of the congregation, many of whom learned to read the Megillah for the first time. We look forward to this wonderful program once again. YOM HAATZMAUT AT ASBEE Wednesday, April 22nd, 2015 at 7:00 PM Baron Hirsch joins with other community institutions to celebrate the State of Israel’s 67th Birthday. Always a meaningful program, this service of thanksgiving is mixed with music, dancing, and drama.
  • 16. 16 PRAYER & HOLIDAY PROGRAMS SHABBAT 2014 SHABBAT 2014 IS COMING TO MEMPHIS! Shabbat is the most sacred day on the Jewish calendar. It is a day of rest, spiritual growth, family togetherness and a time to pause and think. On October 24th & 25th – we will be joining something truly special that is happening in more than 170 cities and 30 countries around the globe, including right here in Memphis. In a mass show of unity and love, Jews of diverse backgrounds will join together to participate in “Shabbat 2014” – an international grassroots Jewish identity movement that unites all Jews to keep one full Shabbat together. The idea originated last year in South Africa, and if you have not yet seen the inspirational video about this event, please search for “Shabbos Project 2014” on YouTube. Over the coming weeks, you will be receiving more information about how you can be involved in the Shabbat Project. Please reserve the dates on your family’s calendar, and get ready for a truly inspirational and special weekend.
  • 17. PROGRAMMING ANNUAL EVENTS 17 ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING January 11th, 2015 at 6:30 PM Every January, Baron Hirsch holds its annual membership meeting and elections of officers. It is a wonderful time to acknowledge all those who dedicate their time to the shul, and for all of our members to celebrate our accomplishments. BELZ PARKER ARTISTS ASCENDING SERIES - 48TH SEASON Sunday, October 26th, 2014 at 7:30 PM Featuring virtuoso pianist Michael Sikich playing a program of classical and jazz music. Sponsored in memory of Philip Belz by the Belz Family For more than 48 years, the Belz Parker Artists Ascending Concert Series has brought some of the world’s most promising young classical musicians from around the world to Memphis to showcase their blossoming talents. Notable performers have included violinist Itzhak Perlman, conductor Daniel Barenboim, pianist Misha Dichter and violinist Gil Shaham – all of whom have gone on to achieve worldwide acclaim. All concerts are free and open to the public. FAMILY SHABBAT MEALS Several times a year, our membership comes together at the synagogue to enjoy a communal Shabbat meal. November 21st, 2014 Friday Night Dinner January 16th, 2015 Friday Night Dinner February 6th, 2015 Friday Night Dinner March 20th, 2015 Friday Night Dinner June 20th, 2015 Shabbat Lunch 100 MAN MINYAN January 18th, 2015 Join us as we once again gather over 100 men for a special Sunday morning minyan followed by a complimentary breakfast. Women & children are welcome to participate! Please RSVP to the office. Sponsorships are available, contact David Fleischhacker. CAFÉ SIMCHA Café Simcha is Baron Hirsch’s unique Kosher dining experience. We invite a popular chef from a local restaurant into the Baron Hirsch kitchen to prepare an exquisite dinner, providing a kosher dining opportunity to the community. Watch for the menu to be released soon. October 26th, 2014 December 7th, 2014 (all day café in conjunction with Art Show) May 3rd, 2015 BARON HIRSCH ANNUAL DINNER Sunday, March 22nd, 2015 Join us for a Gala Dinner as we celebrate our congregation’s accomplishments over the last year and recognize the dedication of those within our membership who have helped our success.
  • 18. 18 PROGRAMMING CLUBS SOURCES: THE JEWISH HISTORY BOOK CLUB Now in its 6th year, the participants in the Jewish History Book Club read nonfiction books covering the time period from the Second Temple to the present. Meetings are held every other month with the discussion lead by a volunteer member. Anyone interested in learning more Jewish history is welcome. All sessions meet at Baron Hirsch at 8:00PM, unless otherwise noted. Contact Ellis Tavin, chairman, for more information. September 15, 2014 The Pity of It All - Amos Elon Discussion by Shelley Kutliroff 200 years of Jewish integration into German society November 17, 2014 A Murder in Lemberg - Michael Stanislwski Discussion by Ellis Tavin Did Orthodox community murder Reform Rabbi? January 26, 2015 The Rebbe - Samuel Heilman and Menachem Friedman Discussion by Jerry Kutliroff Rebbe and emissaries fight assimilation March 23, 2015 Wonder of Wonders: A Cultural History of Fiddler on the Roof - Alisa Solomon Discussion by Ellen Tavin Broadway tries to make a Jewish story less “Jewish” for a wider audience appeal June 8, 2015 Like Dreamers - Yossi Klein Halevi Discussion by Rabbi Shai Finkelstein Socialist Kibbutzniks and Religious Zionist paratroopers reunite Jerusalem and divide the country
  • 19. PROGRAMMING 19 BARON HIRSCH MITZVAH KNITTERS Our Baron Hirsch Knitting Group meets regularly and knits for a number of different causes, including the Israel Defense Forces, Memphis Jewish Home, and MIFA. Join these dedicated women and have a fun-filled afternoon of knitting and conversation. The group meets on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month, from 1:00-3:00 PM in the I.E. Hanover Library. KOL RENA SO-SHULS The Kol Rena So-Shuls is Baron Hirsch’s social group for seniors. Each month we host a homemade lunch with live entertainment, bingo, and more. Seniors from throughout the community are welcome, and the cost is just $3 per person. Sponsored in memory of Rena Loskovitz, A”H, by her family. Upcoming Dates: November 19, 2014 January 21, 2015 February 18, 2015 March 18, 2015 May 20, 2015 June 17, 2015 July 15, 2015 August 19, 2015 MEN’S CLUB Our Men’s Club, led by Jake Lipsey and Mark Hayden, plans a number of fun social activities throughout the year. Volunteers are always needed, and you can speak to one of the presidents to discuss opportunities. Our Men’s Club founded an annual community wide Men’s Club event that each congregation in Memphis has hosted, and Baron Hirsch most recently hosted again in 2014. Look for details and location for our 2015 community-wide event! Other current Men’s Club programs include: October 12, 2014 Cooking for Annual Sukkah Party – see page 14 October 13, 2014 Simchat Beit Hashoeva Tisch with Bourbon Tasting & BBQ – see page 14 January 18, 2015 100 Man Minyan – see page 17 CLUBS
  • 20. 20 PROGRAMMING CLUBS BARON HIRSCH SISTERHOOD Our congregation’s ladies group plans social, community service and fundraising events throughout the year, led by Sisterhood president, Eileen Posner. Upcoming Events Include: October 14, 2014 at Noon Just for Ladies – Lunch in the Sukkah Delicious lunch and entertainment in the Baron Hirsch Sukkah TBD Sisterhood Game Night Once a year, our sisterhood gathers with their sister organizations in all other congregations for an evening of fun and games. TBD Spring Fashion Show and Luncheon A popular event featuring fashion from various local boutiques and an always scrumptious luncheon. BARON HIRSCH YOUNG PROFESSIONALS GROUP This group has a mission of strengthening and enhancing the Jewish experience for community members in the 21 – 35 age range. Young Professional Shabbat Dinners Throughout the year, delicious themed Shabbat dinners are offered for our community’s young professionals. These highlight events offer a night out with great company, amazing food, and a short class from one of the Baron Hirsch Rabbis. Babysitting is available. Upcoming Dates: October 29, 2014 January 30, 2015 April 24, 2015 Young Professional Pot Luck Lunches Several times each year, our young professionals will organize an informal pot luck meal on Shabbat afternoon which will rotate hosts, menus and preparations. Look for our list of dates to be released soon.
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  • 22. 22 YOUTH BOYS HOLIDAY CHOIR Rosh Hashanah/Yom Kippur Under the direction of Cantor Ricky Kampf, our Boys Choir has added beauty and inspiration to our holiday services for many years. The children rehearse for a month before the holidays, and celebrate their accomplishments afterwards with a trip to a Grizzlies game with our Rabbi and Cantor. SUKKAH HOP/TREASURE HUNT Shabbat, October 11th, 2014 at 4:00 PM For ages 9 – 13, enjoy a challenging Sukkah Treasure Hunt throughout the neighborhood with great prizes. Meet in the Baron Hirsch Sukkah. For ages 3 – 8, there will be a Sukkah Hop with songs, stories and treats. Meet in the Baron Hirsch Sukkah. SUKKOT CHOL HAMOED YOUTH DAY Tuesday, October 14th, 2014 at 1:00-5:00 PM Children and teens of all ages will enjoy our annual afternoon of Putt Putt, go-karts, batting range, bumper boats, and other rides, games and refreshments. Held at Golf & Games Family Park on Summer Avenue. PESACH CHOL HAMOED YOUTH DAY Tuesday, April 7th, 2015 Baron Hirsch sponsors the largest Pesach young even in Memphis and families flock to our events each year. Whether it is putt putt, skating, or something new, kids love our Chol HaMoed events. Reserve the date, and stay tuned for this year’s location. GRADUATION KIDDUSH Shabbat, June 6th, 2015 In what has become a beautiful Baron Hirsch tradition, each year we honor our congregation graduates – on the high school, junior high, and kindergarten level. A gala Kiddush is held in their honor, sponsored by their families, and the congregation presents a special gift to each graduate. TIKKUN LEIL SHAVUOT May 23rd, 2015 NCSY MIDWEST REGIONAL EARLY SPRING CONVENTION AT BARON HIRSCH March 12-15, 2015 ANNUAL EVENTS
  • 23. YOUTH WEEKLY & MONTHLY EVENTS 23 PROGRAMS FOR 9TH-12TH GRADE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH NCSY Teen Minyan and Seudah Shlishit: A weekly peer led Mincha Minyan followed by a lively Seudah Shlishit including engaging debates, delicious foods, singing and Divrei Torah. Latte and Learning: Throughout the year, NCSY’ers meet for a delicious cup of Starbucks or scoop of TCBY and a discussion driven class on various topics confronting our teenagers. Jewish Student Union (JSU): JSU is a national organization with over 250 Jewish culture clubs on public high school campuses. The clubs provide Jewish teens with programs that strengthen their Jewish identity and connection to Israel by creating a fun, social atmosphere. Currently there is a club at White Station High School. Movie Machshava 6th-8th Graders join Rabbi Mordechai Harris in his home for a popular movie and delicious nosh followed by a discussion designed to help flush out the messages being transmitted by the film and to evaluate how these messages may or may not be in line with our personal and religious values. Dates: Nov 15, Dec 13, Jan 17, Feb 21, March 21, April 18, May 16 FAMILY PROGRAMMING Family Outings Periodically, Baron Hirsch organizes a Sunday family outing. These outings, while predominantly focused on creating social occasions, will also attempt to tie in thematically with nearby holidays. Kickoff Event: Sunday, September 21st 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM Pre-Rosh Hashanah Apple Picking at Jones Orchard Musical Havdalah Once a month when the clocks have changed and Shabbat ends early enough, Baron Hirsch invites families to join for a musical Havdalah service filled with singing, stories, and upbeat dancing to end the night. Pre-Holiday Craft Programs Children 3-6 years of age and their parents are invited to meet at Baron Hirsch leading up to the various holidays for a chance to create, learn, and eat. With each holiday a different hands on arts and crafts project will be offered, Rabbi Mordechai Harris will be there to teach about the holidays. Dates: Oct 5 (Pre-Sukkot), Dec 7 (Pre-Chanukah), Feb 1 (Pre-Tu B’Shvat), Feb 22 (Pre-Purim), March 29, (Pre-Pesach), May 17 (Pre-Shavuot).
  • 24. 24 SHABBAT PROGRAMS EACH SHABBAT our youth are divided into age appropriate groups designed to instill positive associations with Shul and Teffilah, as well as educate about the weekly Torah portion and any upcoming holidays. BABYSITTING Supervised free play for children 1 – 2 years old. This program runs for the duration of the morning service on all Shabbat & Holiday mornings. Diaper changing and snack provided. TORAH TOTS A program for 3 year old – Kindergarten aged students combining babysitting from the start of morning services until 10:45 AM, when the group transitions into structured play, age appropriate Tefilla, and Parsha instruction. Snack provided. JR. CONGREGATION Children in 1st - 5th Grade enjoy supervised free play and a snack until 10:30 AM, after which they transition into a beginners Tefillah service and engaging Parsha based competitions led by Rabbi Harris. The Jr. Congregation group will be brought into services to lead the main Minyan from Ein Kelokeinu onward. PARSHA PROJECT Students in 6th-8th grade who find themselves in need of a break in the services are invited to step out at 10:30 AM for a chance to participate in engaging conversations around issues and ideas raised in the weekly Parsha. They will also enjoy a brief Kiddush and Snack before rejoining the congregation for Mussaf. Location to be announced. CHUG MISHNAYOT 2nd-5th graders join Rabbi Mordechai Harris on Shabbat afternoons half an hour before Mincha to study Mishnayot together. Students are also encouraged to sign up for the weekly Chazarah Challenge, an opportunity to review with their parents and research a special question, thereby earning a raffle ticket for a grand drawing at the end of the year. TOT SHABBAT/HOLIDAYS Once a month, parents are encouraged to join their children (1 - 2 years old) in their Shabbat morning group room at 10:45 AM for a special prayer service designed for your children featuring songs, stories, and a snack kiddush. Parents who would like to be a volunteer leader should contact Rabbi Harris. Dates: Sep 13, Oct 11, Nov 8, Dec 20, Jan 10, Feb 14, March 14, April 11, and May 25. SHABBAT CJET Marc Lennon leads an engaging and interactive class for teenagers. While the class is aimed at teens who are not currently attending Jewish day school, and teen who wishes to learn is welcome. The class meets in the Leach Youth Lounge at 10:30 AM Shabbat Morning. CHIDON HATANACH Beginning after the fall holidays, Moreh Shimshon Soleman gives a special class for teens who are competing in the national bible contest. Baron Hirsch is proud to give space to this ambitious and talented group of students from the MHA/FYOS for this extra weekly study session. Meets in the Hanover Library, 45 minutes before Shabbat Mincha YOUTH
  • 25. YOUTH TEEN ISRAEL PROGRAM/CAMP DAROM 25 TEEN ISRAEL PROGRAM – ISRAEL INTROSPECTED Building on the success of our Israel Advocacy and Teen Leadership programs, Baron Hirsch is proud to offer a new teen program – Israel Introspected. This new curriculum seeks to create ideological affinity through challenging teens to engage Israel in her full complexity as a modern democratic, and yet particularly Jewish, State. This is accomplished by addressing core questions pertaining to the necessity and significance of the Jewish national enterprise; how a Jewish state should exercise power; why a Jew who lives outside of Israel should care about Israel; and what the State of Israel can offer the world. The curriculum will also grapple with some of the significant internal challenges Israel faces such as the secular/religious divide, creating space for non-Jews and growing economic divides. Participants will be able to participate in our teen delegation to the AIPAC National Policy Conference, with some receiving scholarships towards the conference expenses. CAMP DAROM Our 39th Season – July 2-29, 2015 Since 1976, Baron Hirsch has run Camp Darom, the first, and still the only overnight camp under Orthodox auspices in the entire South. Over the years, we have attracted campers from the Southern, Midwest, and West Coast States. Our greatest testimonial is the large number of campers who return year after year, and even the many second generation campers who now attend. Nestled on the scenic shores of beautiful Lake Grenada, Mississippi, our camp offers a combination of all of the traditional and extreme fun camp activities, with a strong focus on a modern orthodox approach to Torah and an emphasis on Zionism and the State of Israel. Camp Darom is under the direction of Rabbi Avichai Pepper, who joins us with his family each summer from their home in Silver Spring, Maryland. Rabbi Pepper has over 15 years of camp administrative experience and has been with Camp Darom since 2008. Both he and his wife Alanna (born in Memphis) are veteran teachers. Watch for exciting announcements about our 2015 summer, including reunion Shabbatons that will be held this winter in Memphis and Atlanta!
  • 26. 26 COMMUNITY SERVICE CHESED CHESED BOX PACKING AND DELIVERING Over the past ten years, twice each year, before the major holiday seasons, Baron Hirsch members meet to pack and deliver food boxes to some 100 needy families in the Memphis area. Sunday, September 21st, 2014 10:00 AM at the synagogue Packing of Rosh Hashanah Boxes Sunday, March 29th, 2015 10:00 AM at the synagogue Packing of Pesach Boxes Private donations are welcome to help support this important project. MEMPHIS JEWISH HOME BIRTHDAY PARTIES Both our Men’s Club and Sisterhood assist by sponsoring one of the monthly birthday parties held for residents of the Memphis Jewish Home. On the given month, volunteers go to the home for the party, sponsor birthday cake for all, and give presents to those celebrating a birthday. BLOOD DRIVES Baron Hirsch runs periodic blood drives to help those throughout the community who are in need of blood. We occasionally have the mobile unit at the synagogue for a specific event, but members are also encouraged to visit a LifeBlood office to donate. SHIVA COMMITTEE Our shiva committee is always there to help provide assistance and comfort to a family who has suffered a loss. Our minyan group is available to bring Shiva chairs and siddurim to a family in Shiva, and to help make sure a minyan is present. Members of the Chesed department also bring a selection of baked goods to a person’s home as well. KABBALAT SHABBAT AT THE MEMPHIS JEWISH HOME Once a month, a member of our staff conducts a special Kabbalat Shabbat service for residents at the Memphis Jewish Home. If you would like to volunteer to assist, please contact the synagogue office.
  • 27. COMMUNITY SERVICE COMMUNITY PARTNERS BARON HIRSCH is a proud co-sponsor or participant in many great events in the Memphis Jewish community, which reach across a number of agencies. 27 MHA/FYOS ISRAEL MARCH Each year, the student body, faculty and parent body of the Margolin Hebrew Academy/Feinstone Yeshiva of the South celebrate Israel Independence Day with a march through the streets of East Memphis. A sea of blue and white march, sing, and dance their way from the school to Baron Hirsch, where they hear inspirational words from our Rabbi, and we provide them with refreshments. The students then meet in our sanctuary for Mincha, after which there is music and more dancing until dismissal. ISRAEL FEST June 7, 2015 Baron Hirsch is a proud sponsor of the Memphis Friend of Israel and its annual Israel Fest and 5K run. This event attracts thousands of participants, promotes the importance of American support for Israel. Israel Fest offers authentic music, food, culture, activities and more for those who attend throughout the community. YOM HASHOAH ANNUAL COMMEMORATION For 48 years the Memphis Jewish Federation has organized a community wide commemoration of Holocaust Remembrance Day. Baron Hirsch Congregation joins with all of the other Memphis congregations in its support of this special event. The date for the 2015 commemoration will be announced. COMMUNITY MEN’S CLUB EVENT Seven years ago, our Men’s Club was instrumental in organizing the Men’s Clubs of all Memphis congregations for a joint event celebrating good food and wonderful fellowship. ASBEE BBQ Our sister congregation, Anshei Sphard Beth El Emeth, hosts the largest Kosher BBQ contest in the country.
  • 28. 28 STAFF BIOGRAPHIES RABBI SHAI FINKELSTEIN | SENIOR RABBI A native of Israel, Rabbi Finkelstein was ordained by the Chief Rabbinate of Israel and received certification by Rabbi Yisrael Meir Lau, the eminent former Chief Rabbi of Israel. He more recently received a higher ordination by the Association of Rabbinic Judges in Jerusalem, which certifies him to serve as a judge in an Israeli Monetary Court of Law. Rabbi Finkelstein has been in Memphis since 2000 and served as the Rosh Kollel of the Kollel Torah MiTzion housed at the Margolian Hebrew Academy. RABBI MORDECHAI HARRIS | TEEN RABBI & OUTREACH DIRECTOR Rabbi Mordechai Harris is a graduate of Yeshivat Chovevei Torah Rabbinical School. He is the current Teen Rabbi and Outreach Director at Baron Hirsch and previously he was the Youth Rabbi at the Hebrew Institute of White Plains. He has spent close to 15 years working in the area of informal and experiential Jewish education including serving as the Associate Director and Jr NCSY Director for Upstate NY NCSY. CANTOR RICKY KAMPF | CANTOR Cantor Ricky Kampf has been associated with Baron Hirsch since 1989. In his first years, he served the congregation as the assistant Shalich Tzibur and Executive Director. He received his cantorial degree from the Belz School of Jewish Music and currently serves as the congregation’s Cantor. His Kabbalat Shabbat service every Friday night fills the synagogue with excitement and energy, and his holiday work with both our Men’s and Boys’ Choirs make the High Holy Days very meaningful. He also is a master Bar Mitzvah teacher, who has taught Torah reading and davening to countless boys throughout the city. DAVID FLEISCHHACKER | EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR David Fleischhacker was appointed to the position of Executive Director in 2003. He received his M.B.A from Baruch College in New York, and his B.S. from Yeshiva University. A native Memphian, Mr. Fleischhacker has many fond memories of Baron Hirsch, especially of the years he attended Camp Darom. Starting as a camper at a young age, he grew to serve the camp in many different capacities, including being its Director for several seasons. Prior to his return to Memphis, Mr. Fleischhacker was a lay leader of Congregation Etz Chaim of Kew Gardens Hills.
  • 29. STAFF BIOGRAPHIES RABBI DAVID RADINSKY | MAGID SHIUR Rabbi Radinsky is the Rabbi Emeritus of Brith Sholom Beth Israel Congregation in Charleston, South Carolina, where he served as Senior Rabbi from 1970-2004. He studied at Yeshiva Univeristy where he obtained his B.A. in History and Hebrew in 1963, an M.A. in Semitic Studies from the Bernard Revel Graduate School and Rabbinic Ordination from the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary in 1966. RABBI AVICHAI PEPPER | DIRECTOR OF CAMP DAROM Rabbi Avichai Pepper is the Director of Lower School Student Programming at the Melvin J. Berman Hebrew Academy in Maryland. He is a veteran teacher who has taught previously at the Phoenix Hebrew Academy and Seattle Hebrew Academy. Rabbi Pepper has been working in Jewish summer camps for many years. Before joining Camp Darom in 2008, he served as the Assistant Director of Camp Dora Golding. MARC LENNON Marc Lennon has been the City Director of NCSY since moving to Memphis in 2008. He began the first Jewish student club in a Memphis public school, as well as a successful learning program for high school students not attending Jewish day school (CJET). Marc enjoys helping teenagers connect to their Jewish heritage in a meaningful way for themselves. MR. SHIMSHON SOLEMAN Moreh Shimshon, as he is affectionately known by his many students, is a Hebrew teacher at the Margolin Hebrew Academy, and head of the Hebrew Department for the Upper School. He and his wife, Yehudit, are masters of the Tal Am program, a Hebrew language immersion program used with great success in many schools. They have taught in communities in several different countries around the world, including Canada and Switzerland. 29
  • 30. 30 CALENDAR SEP 10 Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon 15 Book Club: “The Pity of It All” 20 Pre-Selichot Kumsitz 21 Chesed Box Packing 21 Family Apple Picking 27 Shabbat Shuva Drasha 29 Meet the Sofer OCT 4 Yom Kippur Teach In 11 Sukkah Hop/Treasure Hunt 12 Family Sukkah Party 13 Men’s Club Simchat Beit HaShoeva & Bourbon Tasting 14 Chol HaMoed Youth Day 16 Simchat Torah Hakafot & Dinner 17 Simchat Torah Lunch 17 Women’s Torah Study 24-25 Shabbat Project 26 Café Simcha 26 Artists Ascending Concert: Michael Sikich 31 Young Professionals Shabbat Dinner NOV 17 Book Club: “A Murder in Lemberg” 19 Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon 21-22 Scholar-in-Residence Dr. Smadar & Rabbi Michael Rosenweig DEC 4-7 Israeli Art Show 17 Chanukah Dinner JAN 11 David Finkelstein Memorial Lecture 11 Annual Membership Meeting 16 Family Shabbat Dinner 16 -17 Scholar-in-Residence Rabbi Meir Soloveichik 18 100 Man Minyan 21 Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon 26 Book Club: “The Rebbe” FEB 6 Family Shabbat Dinner 6-7 Scholar-in-Residence Dr. Mordechai Kedar 18 Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon MAR 1-3 AIPAC National Policy Conference 5 Purim Seudah & Carnival 12-15 Midwest NCSY Regional Shabbat at Baron Hirsch 18 Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon 20 Family Shabbat Dinner 20-21 Scholar-in-Residence Rabbi Menachem Leibtag 22 Annual Congregational Dinner 23 Book Club: “Wonder of Wonders” 28 Shabbat HaGadol Drasha 29 Chesed Box Packing
  • 31. 31 APR 7 Chol HaMoed Youth Day 22 Yom HaAtzmaut Service & Celebration MAY 1-2 Scholar-In-Residence Rabbi Benjamin Blech 3 Café Simcha 20 Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon 23 Tikkun Leil Shavuot JUN 6 Graduation Kiddush 8 Book Club: “Like Dreamers” 17 Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon 19-20 Scholars-in-Residence Rabbi Ronen and Dr. Pnina Neuwirth JUL 2 Camp Darom Begins 15 Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon 25 Tisha B’Av Lecture AUG 5 Yahrtzeit Lecture by Rabbi David Radinsky 19 Kol Rena So-Shuls Luncheon CALENDAR