What’s This? A New Name and a Logo, Too?
Melanie Einbund
Introducing our new name: Congregation B’nai Midbar at SaddleBrooke (transliterated: B’nay Meedbar, meaning “The People of the Desert”). Wow! What a ride it has been! You’d think that changing a name would be easy. Well, it wasn’t. But thanks to many, we did it! We are proud to announce that we are now known as Congregation B’nai Midbar at SaddleBrooke, and we have a logo, too! These major accomplishments were achieved by Seth Eisner (name change) and Bonnie Lasky (logo).
Our name B’nai Midbar reflects the character of our community, our nature, diversity, and determination. We live in the desert, as did our ancestors, and we have wandered here from all over the world. We continue with new and active lives, coupled with our faith, self-reliance, and determination, to build the best community possible. Our logo says who we are and where we are.
A Very Special Shabbat
Our April 19 services were led by Rabbi Seltzer, assisted by cantor Eliyanah Powers and accompanist Dr. Joshua Nichols. It was a poignant Shabbat, as Rabbi Seltzer retired at the end of this service. The combination of our incredible and talented clergy is awe inspiring, and we wish Rabbi Seltzer a joyful retirement.
In recognition of Rabbi Seltzer, the April services were preceded with a cocktail party to celebrate and honor his time with our congregation. The Oneg was sponsored by Rabbi Seltzer’s wife Rita Polack.
If you wish to sponsor an Oneg for a special event, remembrance, or celebration, contact Judi Friedman at [email protected].
What to Do?
A congregation without a rabbi is a predicament. Ron Solomon stepped up and led the rabbinic search. Our new rabbi is Daniel (Danny) Price. We welcome Rabbi Danny (as he likes to be called) to our pulpit. Rabbi Danny has a B.A. in music/communications, a Master of Jewish Education, and he received his Rabbinic Ordination. He has over 20 years’ experience as a rabbi, educator, and song leader. Please mark your calendars for meeting Rabbi Danny on Aug. 25 at an informal gathering.
B’nai Midbar is a small and welcoming congregation. If you have questions or wish to join our congregation, please feel free to contact Esta Goldstein at 520-825-1181 for information.
Wishes of safe travels for our snowbirds, and for those staying in Tucson, a pleasant, not-too-hot summer!
Passover
Melanie Einbund
Passover was from April 22 through April 30. Many seders were held to recount the Jewish history of being slaves in Egypt. With the guidance of Moses, the Jewish people walked through the desert for 40 years, at which time the Jewish people were allowed to enter the land of Israel.
The holiday this year was special in ways that we can’t fathom. Since Oct. 7, 2023, there is a unity that persists among the Jewish people. No matter our paths in life, our beliefs, we are united as one.
Our prayers and faith go to those still held in captivity by Hamas. Our hope is that one day, very soon, they will enjoy the freedom we experience today in our homes and community.
What’s Happening
A New Members Brunch in March was held at the home of Bonnie Lasky and Irv Rothenberg. New members and the board gathered to learn about each other. Chair Esta Goldstein introduced each board member, their activities, and area of responsibility. A request was made for volunteers, because the board can’t do it all by themselves. Yvette Sabulsky has volunteered to lead communications reaching out to members. Sue Spaniol will be helping Bonnie with our database. Our thanks to both for enriching our congregation.
Sorrow filled our congregation at the recent passing of longtime member Bill Kaplan. Bill was a man of few words, but whenever he spoke, people listened, as he was both warm and wise. Bill and Sherry are a special couple, always welcoming and caring. Bill was a righteous man, and we honor his memory.
Shavuot is a holiday honoring the giving of the Ten Commandments from the Lord to Moses. I promise you we will not trek to Sinai, but we will celebrate! In modern times we have all-night studies and eat dairy foods. B’nai Midbar will celebrate on June 11 from 4 to 8 p.m. by having learning tables and eating cheesecake!
Repeating and Hoping!
When I came to SaddleBrooke, I brought a tradition of giving attendees at Rosh Hashanah morning services a honey cake. Honey cakes symbolize a sweet and happy new year. Over 80 honey cakes were baked by our members and given to the congregation this past Rosh Hashanah. I have an opportunity for a member of our congregation to become the honey cake baker coordinator—no baking, just coordinating. Please contact me at [email protected] if interested. I do hope that you are interested so we can keep this tradition going.
B’nai Midbar is a small and welcoming congregation. If you have questions or wish to join our congregation, please feel free to contact Esta Goldstein at 520-825-1181 for information.
Wishes of safe travels for our snowbirds, and for those staying in Tucson, a pleasant, not-too-hot summer!