Greater Houston Section Members Spend “A Day on the Hill”

Twenty-one members of Greater Houston Section rolled into Austin on February 16 for a half-day crash course in lobbying and the legislative process for NCJW’s Day on the Hill (DOTH), followed by a day to practice what they learned. Our members joined other NCJW Sections from all over Texas to lobby.

Almost as soon as they arrived, Amy Grossman, Andrea

Cohen, Debbie Simon, Eileen Muslin, Elysa Goldman, Holly Hunsicker, Judy Rosenstock, Kathy Silverberg, Lara Valentine, Libby Marvins, Lynn Mitteldorf, Mardi Kunik, Margaret McAnnally Marion Rosenwald, Pam Geyer, Sandra Daily, Sandy Harris, and Terrie Roth were immersed in informational sessions.

NCJW State Public Affairs Commissioners opened by out-lining the four issues selected for advocacy this legisla-tive term:

• Access to women’s health services and medically accurate, age-appropriate sex education• Women and children: insurance and health care• Separation of religion and state: State Board of Education• Children’s issues: early care and education

Five excellent speakers discussed the art of lobbying, emphasizing the use of new language to be more inclusive and address a broader audience. Adopting such terms as “choices” rather than “choice”; “protection, planning and pre-vention” rather than simply “prevention”; “unintended or unwanted pregnancy” rather than “unplanned pregnancy”; and “birth control options, including emergency birth control” instead of just “emergency contraception” was recom-mended.

Speakers included Margery Loeb from the Women’s Donor Network, who provided each participant with “A Guide for Communications Strategies for Policy Change on Reproductive and Other Health Issues.” Everyone “oohed” and “ah-hed” after thumbing through the guide, noting how useful it would be, not only at this event, but for future reference.

Healthy Babies and Children; and Kara Johnson from Texas Early Childhood Education Coalition followed with advice on presenting our advocacy issues to legislators. Participants were provided with one-page talking points that could be

National Council of Jewish WomenGreater Houston Section

A Faith in the Future. A Belief in Action.March/April 2009 - Volume 24 - Number 4

b u l l e t i n

continued on page 3

GHS members meet with Representatives Scott Hochberg (back row, second from left) and Jessica Farrar (back right). Members

are (left to right, bottom row): Mardi Kunik, Bobbie Cohen, Marion Rosenwald, Eileen Muslin, Debbie Simon, Lynn Mitteldorf, Terri Roth; (middle row): Holly Hunsicker, Sandy Harris, Ann Reva

Marvins, Margaret McAnnally; (back row): Lara Valentine, Hoch-berg, Amy Grossman, Pam Geyer, Judy Rosenstock, Andrea Turner,

Sandra Daily, Kathy Silverberg and Farrar.

2

Governing Board Chair’s Message

I have been a member of NCJW for 38 years in three different cities and thought after all this time, I knew exactly why I had become a member. This month we had two events that clearly reminded me how important organizations such as NCJW are to our society.

First, the Hannah G. Solomon Awards Pro-gram honoring Sandy Harris and Jackie Pon-tello took place. Those of us in attendance were treated to two inspiring speeches by these wonderful women. Wearing her clown’s nose, Sandy told us about commu-nity activities in which she is involved. It was easy to see how much she enjoys her-

self while still making a difference. We may all take pride in knowing that this is a prime example of the type of members that we have in NCJW.

Jackie Pontello told us about the activities of Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse (AVDA), an agency that was started by NCJW and one that is needed

this incredible organization has helped its clients and how much more there is to do made me so proud of NCJW for what we have done and what we can do in the future.

One week later it was “Day on the Hill” where NCJW visited our state capital in Austin. Greater Houston Section brought 21 members to climb that hill. This is a very precarious time for organizations and activities that depend on state budgets. Everyone is looking for ways to reduce the budget and, as frequently happens, those with the largest need and the smallest

organizations such as NCJW have to assure that others understand the criti-cal need of our activities. Examples of these activities include full-time pre-school so that parents can hold jobs; sex education in our schools so that Texas will not have the highest pregnancy redundancy rate in the country, as well as the second highest teen pregnancy rate; and oversight of the school board by the legislature in order to remove politics from its decisions.

Sharing these events with an ever-increasing membership is the best way to let others know the valuable activities in which we are engaged. This month we had two events that clearly showed the importance of NCJW. Every month is an active month for NCJW in helping our community. Let others know! In this way we can continue doing what we do so well.

Fondly, Eileen

In This IssueVolume 24Number 4

Greater Houston SectionDay on the Hill...1-3Hannah G. Solomon...4Hurrican Ike Relief...5

Chair’s MessageUpdate...2

Community ServiceBrighter Futures...6Donny Workman...6Joy of Reading...7HIPPY Happenings...7

Branch NewsDaytime Branch...8West Houston...8Career Branch...8WHEB Programs...9DB’s Tea Party....9

Women’s Seder Invitation...10

Public AffairsPlan A Initiative...11Education Works...11

Israel UpdateReport from Israel...13Israel Granting Program...13

MembershipMembership Gatherings..13New Member Welcome..13

Tribute Cards...14

It’s Personal...15

CalendarUpcoming Events...16

3

Greater Houston Section News

The evening began with a reception of invited representa-tives and senators, followed by dinner and presentation of awards, including the “Belief in Action Award” to Julie Lowenberg and Ellen Sable, who chaired State Public Affairs for several years prior to the current SPA Chairs Ja-net Neuenschwander and Marlene Cohen, who successfully organized this event; the “Woman Who Dared Award,” to Kathy Miller, who is following in Cecile Richards’ footsteps as Director of the Texas Freedom Network; and the “Texas Trailblazer Award” to Mark Strama, a Travis County state representative who is passionate about our issues.

Early the next morning, everyone was ready to trek up the Hill to the State Capitol to meet with legislators. Af-

to visit six or seven legislators each, presenting our posi-tion on the four issues. Appointments had been arranged with a wide range of senators and state representatives, some not from the Houston area, with views spanning the entire political spectrum. Because the legislature was in session all day, we spoke with their aides, who said they would take our positions back to their respective employ-ers. Several aides noted how helpful our talking points would be in accomplishing this.

State Representative Ellen Cohen, a Houston NCJW mem-ber, invited Greater Houston Section members to use her

other items, during the day.

Thanks to Governing Board Public Affairs Chair Mardi Kunik and her team for arranging this worthwhile ex-perience for those of us from Houston. It was clearly a successful venture, as the following comments by GHS members indicate:

“Margery Loeb gave us excellent preparation on advocacy, and the handbook was an extra bonus. Kathy Miller’s ac-ceptance speech showed us that all this is worth taking a risk for, to make our voices heard.”

“It was exciting to see a young, energetic, fresh and en-thusiastic face in the legislature.”

“It was a pleasure to be with the statewide NCJW partici-pants, knowing we are a team.”

If you’ve never been part of DOTH, it is a truly rewarding experience, and we hope you can join us the next time the state legislature is in session.

continued from page 1

Libby Marvins and Sandy Harris in hearing room at the State Capitol

Delegates gather at the State Capitol hearing room. Left to right, front row: Debbie Simon, Eileen Muslin, Mardi Kunik, Bev-

Rosenwald, Sandy Harris, Judy Rosenstock; back row: Libby Mar-vins, Sandra Daily, Pam Geyer, Ann Reva Jacobson, Andrea Turner, Margaret McAnnally, Terrie Roth, Bobbie Cohen, Kathy Silverberg,

Lara Valentine, Lynn Mitteldorf, Elysa Goldman

-tors are (left to right), front row: Ann Reva Jacobson, Beverly

Kathy Silverberg, Terrie Roth, Marion Rosenwald (hidden), Sandy Harris, Libby Marvins; back row: Andrea Turner, Mardi Kunik,

Eileen Muslin (hidden), Debbie Simon

4

Greater Houston Section News

Sandy Harris’s wide range of volunteer activities and Jackie Pontello’s experiences as Executive Director of Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse (AVDA) provided inspira-tion and enlightenment to the 215 members and guests who attended the 2009 Hannah G. Solomon Awards lun-cheon at the Houstonian Hotel on February 8.

Both women were recipients of NCJW’s most prestigious award based on their demonstrated interest, activi-ties and stands on the vital issues with which NCJW is in sympathy. Sandy and Jackie have translated their sup-port into recognizing unmet needs in the community, and developing unique programs to meet those needs. While 21st century terms such as “domestic abuse,” “family law,” “Meals on Wheels,” and “Caring Clowning” may not have been heard during Hannah G. Solomon’s lifetime (1858-1942), NCJW’s founder surely would have admired the profound differences these programs make in contem-porary lives.

Sandy Harris, after being introduced by her daughter Stefani Harris, took the podium wearing a red clown

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she receives from delivering Meals on Wheels, assisting at SEARCH Homeless services, volunteering for 22 years at Texas Children’s Hospital, as well as her roles as a Girl Scout Leader and advisor to B’nai B’rith Girls when her two daughters were young and other volunteer activities too numerous to mention. Asked how she accomplishes so much, Sandy responded, “I’m fast.”

Ede Weiner, NCJW Governing Board member and longtime AVDA board member, introduced Jackie Pontello. Weiner

-lished by Greater Houston Section volunteers in 1980. NCJW fundraising efforts continue to provide program sup-port for which Pontello expressed gratitude.

In her role as Executive Director, Jackie recognized needs within the community, and developed and implemented innovative programs designed to meet those needs. Jackie, who is an attorney, has created partnerships with both the University of Houston Law Center and the Harris

battered women. She concluded by describing some of the crisis situations she and AVDA personnel have experi-enced as they work to shield clients from their abusers. She and the audience were then surprised by the presen-tation of a huge facsimile of a $24,000 check to AVDA from NCJW.

Hannah G. Solomon Event Inspires and Motivates

Sandy Harris wears her unforgettable clown nose as she accepts the Hannah G. Solomon award

Special Events Chair Ann Oppman (left) and Leda Karchmer helped make this year’s

HGS an exceptional occasion

Ede Weiner and Hannah G. Solomon

award winner Jackie Pontello dis-

play $24,000 check to AVDA

5

Once the lights were turned back on after Hurricane Ike hit in September, we noticed how much damage there was in Houston. NCJW branches took the initiative and found ways to help those locally in need. As hard as the storm

Galveston, though, was in much worse shape.

Galveston had taken the brunt of the storm surge and had even more damaging winds. More than 75% of Galveston Island was damaged by the storm. Even six months later, parts of the Island are still struggling to rebuild. Homes have been lost, jobs have been put on hold, along with the accompanying paychecks, and many islanders have been stuck in very scary situations.

To help, the Greater Houston Section (GHS) Governing Board contacted Rabbi Jimmy Kessler of Galveston, who at the time was trying to clear his own home of debris, without power, and trying to plan for the High Holy days in a synagogue in a similar state. The GHS Governing Board told him that we wanted to do something for both the Jewish and secular communities in Galveston--anyone who needed our help.

He explained that two discount stores and two grocery stores on the Island had reopened, but many residents were without paychecks and power, some even without plumbing. They needed a way to buy a week’s worth of groceries, diapers, etc. Rabbi Kessler suggested gift cards that he could give to local agencies to distribute to those in need.

The GHS Governing Board voted to contribute $2000 of its emergency fund to buy gift cards in $100 increments.

Galveston at the time, Bonnie Herst undertook the task of purchasing the cards and taking them down to Galves-ton. After attending Rabbi Kessler’s Friday night services, she introduced herself and gave him the cards.

GHS received a beautiful note from Rabbi Kessler describ-ing how each agency put them in the hands of those most in need. The Island is still working hard on its recovery. One step at a time, businesses are rebuilding. NCJW Greater Houston Section is proud of what it could do to help the individuals and families of Galveston at the most acute point in its recovery.

Greater Houston Section Provides Hurricane Ike Relief to Galveston

State Representative Ellen Cohen, an NCJW member, presented Harris and Pontello with resolutions from the State Legislature honoring their achievements and dedica-tion.

Some attendees were so impressed and moved by the dedication of these two wom-en, as well as the work of NCJW, that at least two of them joined immediately, one became a life member, and the other made a generous donation to AVDA in their honor. Greater Houston Section is especially appreciative of the numerous other gifts in honor of the accomplishments of the two honorees.

The organization is also grateful to Saks Fifth Avenue in the Galleria for providing table favors. Event chair Ann Oppman thanks the steering committee, and is most grateful to , Mina Pashkoff, Bobbie Cohen, Ede Weiner, Marion Rosenwold, Leda Karchmer, Morgan Sheinberg Warren, Marni Zarin, Elysa Goldman and Concerned Young Women, Barbara Sadof, Ruth Rabie, Stefani Harris, Arlene Baker, Halley Trevas, Rosine Chappell, Terry Hausner, Jan DiGann, Ruth Eagle, Carol Goldfarb, Hermas Grayless, Ann Reva Jacobson, Lena Malacoff, Lynn Mittel-dorf, Marcia Pappert, Jan Rose and Ferne Winograd for their active participation. NCJW is also grateful to Dave who voluntarily videotaped the event, and gifted each of the honorees. The support and guidance of past honoree , 2007-08 Special Events Chair Leda Karchmer, and Governing Board Chair Eileen Mus-lin were essential to the event’s success.

Eileen Muslin presents Sandy Harris with

Hannah G. Solomon award

Greater Houston Section News

6

Community ServiceWrap-up of Brighter Futures

We received a long thank you letter from Planned Parent-hood in appreciation of our many years of support for their Brighter Futures program.

Brighter Futures involved a select group of at-risk Houston East End seventh graders in a daily after school program over a six-year period beginning in 2002. The participants were provided comprehensive educational and social services as well as a holistic approach to the prevention of pregnancy and early sexual involvement. The program stressed the importance of developing healthy relation-ships and responsible decision-making. The project concluded with the high school graduation of most of its students in 2008.

Out of 42 participants and former participants who were in the program for at least one year, only two have not yet graduated from high school. This represents a 95% graduation rate, compared to a Houston ISD graduation rate of 49%.

Over the years, NCJW has donated funds, held pizza parties, organized a Career Fair for the teens and their friends, and attended some of their functions. We are proud to have participated in such a successful program for these at-risk youth and their families. We applaud Planned Parenthood in their dedication to reduce teen pregnancy and help today’s youth be successful in life.

A few examples of the students’ accomplishments demon-strate the effectiveness of this program:

A male student who graduated from one of the Magnet schools is currently at the University of Houston studying engineering and has received a $5,000 Brighter Futures scholarship award from the Rochelle and Alan Jacobson College Scholarship Fund.

A female student currently at St. Thomas University studying psychology has received the $5,000 Brighter Futures scholarship award from the Rochelle and Alan Jacobson College Scholarship Fund, as well as a number

-ropolitan Scholarship from the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, she was later declared ineligible due to receiving more than $40,000 in other scholarships and grants.

Another young woman is currently at Sam Houston State University having graduated from high school with honors and has received a National Honor Society Scholarship for $1,000, Lightsey Scholarship from Ripley House for $1,000, Sembradores de Amistad Scholarship for $3,000, and the Milby Alumni Scholarship for $2,000.

A young man currently at the University of Houston studying engineering has received a $15,000 Metropolitan Scholarship from the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, having graduated high school with honors.

For many years, NCJW has been providing lunch to art students at Art League Houston who are HIV-positive or living with other illnesses under the Donny Workman Memorial Lunch Program. Many thanks to Jane Din-ney, Vicky Dyer-Smith, Myrna Zwickel, Ferne Wino-grad and for their untiring help in this very worthwhile and much-appreciated project.

Leftovers from meetings and special occasions. as well as soft drinks and paper goods. are always welcome. If you are interested in cooking, serving or donating,

Donny Workman Memorial Lunch Program Turn Your Ideals Into Action

Turn your ideals into action with NCJW’s advocacy tools: learn about basic outreach strategies, gain tips

local media, connect with coalition partners, and access research databases.

Contact the decision makers, the opinion leaders, and like-minded thinkers and doers in the local

community. Make an impact in your community with NCJW’s advocacy

resources. Learn more at www.ncjw.org.

7

If you have not had the opportunity to go to the House of Tiny Treasures to read stories to a group of precious children, not to worry! Perhaps this spring or summer you can try it and see what you’ve been missing! Once a month Greater Houston Section members hold a story hour for the children at the House of Tiny Treasures, a fully accredited childcare facility that addresses the needs of children whose parents are homeless, but in school or job training. It is a project of SEARCH Home-less Services, an agency created in 1989 by GHS’s own life member, Shelly Cyprus, with the desire to provide Houston’s homeless with services, day shelter, and re-sources they need to successfully reenter society. Living in shelters or on the streets, these children undoubtedly got a poor start in life. At HTT they are given a chance at a better life with love, nurturing, and education, as well as dental screenings and checkups, immunizations, psychological evaluations and counseling, and speech and language therapy if needed.

The next scheduled dates are Monday, March 9, April 13, and May 8 and the second Monday of each month thereaf-ter unless otherwise noted. We meet at the JCC at 9:30 a.m. to go together to the House of Tiny Treasures, which is off I-45 South near Telephone Road. GHS provides brand new books that these little “treasures” can take

Sharing the Joy of ReadingCommunity Service

Rona Lesser has the attention of the little treasures during Joy of Reading at the House of Tiny Treasures

with them. This will be a gratifying, hands-on opportu-nity for a few good women. To be included and put on

Sandy Harris at t or 713-721-1414.

Rhonda Glick, a member of the HIPPY Advisory Board, reported that Eileen Egan, President of the Houston HISD Foundation, in collaboration with Gabriel Hernandez, HIPPY Coordinator, applied to the Greater Houston Sec-tion of NCJW for continued funding for Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY). The request was approved for curriculum materials for the preschool-ers enrolled in the program, parent education meeting refreshments and for the HIPPY graduation celebration expenses at the end of the school year.

The local HIPPY program aligns with the national HIPPY program to use home instruction of parents of pre-school aged youngsters in order to develop stronger parent-ing skills and to help children develop basic language, numerical and behavioral skills needed for kindergarten readiness.

At the December HIPPY Advisory Board meeting, Ms. Her-nandez informed the members that the quarterly parent education topics were safety tips in October, cervical can-cer in November and domestic violence in January. The HIPPY graduation celebration is set for May 21 at the HISD Administration Building. The Houston program presently serves 83 children and families at the following schools: JP Henderson, JR Harris, Port Houston in the east region; Brookline in the south region; and NQ Henderson in the north region.

Greater Houston Section members serving on the HIPPY Advisory Board are new NCJW members Ann Cooper and

, as well as Cookie Portnoy, Donna Price, Helene Zadok and Rhonda Glick.

HIPPY Happenings

8

Daytime BranchPresident’s Message

Branch News

We had a wonderful tea party in January with 63 attend-ees, followed by three tables of mah-jongg players at Sauté Restaurant. Marcia Pappert and Evelyn Leightman did a wonderful job organizing our January meeting. Marcia and

arranged a new DB member coffee in late Febru-ary to get better acquainted with them on a personal basis

Evelyn Brass is developing a procedure to acknowledge our donations and tribute cards for our Bulletins. The March Open Board meeting at Hoffer Furniture was led by Sherry Feldman and president-elect Vicky Dyer-Smith since I was in Israel on the Jewish Federation’s Israel Mis-sion. Sherry Feldman, Ellen Schwartz, Rosine Chappell and Zahava Haenosh are planning our April meeting, along with Cindy Sax.

I am amazed at the number of women we have had turn out for our meetings. The connections are most important and very worth noting. I think we have struck a chord in the community and given them a connection in an area that they support. Please come join us for our exciting and worthwhile programs and projects.

Donna Price

West Houston Evening BranchPresident’s MessageOur annual February birthday celebration of West Hous-ton Evening Branch, once again, was an outstanding high-light of an exciting year of activities. Hosted in the lovely home of Eileen Muslin, the honor of Arlene Baker as our 2009 Isabelle Novitt Award recipient was heartwarming. Her history as a committed contributor to the strength and growth of WHEB has been evident throughout her years of volunteering on many frontiers.

Our March Joint Meeting with Career Branch was again a very interesting evening when J. Richard Cheney, Vice President of Legal Services at Methodist Hospital, spoke to our groups about medical ethics and end-of-life

gathering is a successful mode of generating camaraderie amongst our branches.

Our last program of the year will be our annual End-of-Year Dinner held in May. We hope you’ll make plans to attend our wrap-up, just for the fun of it!

Our search for a new community service project is ongo-ing; there are so many worthwhile causes that have become known through our research. The committee of Diane Statham, Roberta Clay, Ruth Oren, Lee Perlmut-ter and I will hopefully present its best choices by April to the WHEB board.

This year has moved along so quickly! Witnessing so many successful events in which the entire Greater Houston Section has participated inspires me to know that so many Jewish women stand strong and committed to Faith in the Future and a Belief in Action.

Terrie Roth

Career Branch President’s MessageCareer Branch had a very fruitful quarter. In January, members came together at the home of Jo King for game night. This night has become a tradition, with members looking forward to getting together and playing games every year. Career Branch members were also active in organizing the Hannah G. Solomon luncheon. This incred-ible event acknowledged the contributions of two mag-

Sandy Harris and Jackie Pontello. It was heartwarming to see so many women who care about their community and devote endless hours to making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate.

Career Branch sponsored a Sabbath dinner at Hillel that gave students from area universities an opportunity to celebrate the Sabbath. In February, Career Branch mem-bers met for a program at the home of Leda Karchmer. Michael Duke, Associate Editor of the Jewish Herald-Voice, spoke on “Israel and Anti-Israel Advocacy on Local College Campuses, Including Rice University.” This excel-lent presentation highlighted the challenges that we face when biased and unbalanced information about Israel is being promoted in the community.

It is easy to see that our members are active in many ways. As always, we are looking for new members to join our incredible organization. In closing, with Purim around the corner, I would like to wish everyone Chag Sameach.

Ruth Buzi

9

West Houston Evening Branch had a successful forum on Plan A, NCJW’s campaign on contraceptive access. The program, “Plan A: Women’s Lives, Women’s Bodies, The Right to Contraceptive Access,” was paneled by Amy Grossman, Shara Zatopek, Dr. Susan Tortolero and Meryl Cohen. The audience learned about NCJW’s upcoming campaign. On April 20, Ben Stinsman of the Israeli Consulate will be our guest speaker. He will discuss culture in Israel, and members will enjoy Israeli snacks. This is an excellent opportunity to celebrate the 61st anniversary of the State of Israel. Please join us at Temple Sinai and invite your spouses and friends. For more information or to RSVP please contact Pat Farnell or Arlene Baker at abaker-

What’s Happening in West HoustonBranch News

The West Houston Evening Branch held its annual Super Bowl Tailgate Party on Sunday, February 1 at the home of Diane Statham. Guests brought their favorite tailgate snacks that ranged from spinach dip to stuffed eggs. After eating, the par-tygoers were encouraged to share their favorite football memories. Stories ranged from the importance of the game to a small town to an actual football player’s expe-

Information was passed out about the history of the Super Bowl. A great time was had by all as well as deciding that the Pittsburg Steelers would be the winner.

WHEB Enjoys Super Bowl Party

Sixty-three women gathered at Sauté, a new restaurant on Richmond Avenue, for a morning of tea tasting and pas-try sampling. Many of those attending were members who had not been to other NCJW events, as well as a number of guests and prospective new members.

Connie Lacobie, the restaurant’s owner, discussed the properties of various teas, as guests sampled them from tiny teacups. Her talk was followed by an opportunity to enjoy an array of delicious pastries prepared in the

restaurant’s own kitchen. The welcoming atmosphere led a number of members to stay for lunch, and three tables of mah-jongg players cracked and bammed until late afternoon.

The event was one of DB’s most successful programs. It was chaired by Marcia Pappert and Evelyn Leightman, with the assistance of Sherry Feldman, Ferne Winograd, Elaine Kellner, Cookie Portnoy, Karen Buckwold and Hal-ley Trevas.

Daytime Branch’s Tea Party...a Tasty Experience

Daytime Branch members and guests enjoy

Connie Lacobie’s lesson in the

of tea.

10

NATIONAL COUNCIL of JEWISH WOMEN

GREATER HOUSTON SECTIONInvites You to a Special Celebration of Song in

OUR 16th YEAR

NCJW’SINTERGENERATIONAL

WOMEN’S SEDER

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2009

Light Supper will be served

6:30 p.m. Registration —7:00 p.m. Seder

Led by Cantor Marilyn Ladin

Music by Marcia Sterling, Dr. Isabelle Ganz,

and the Tikunotes Choir.

Jewish Community Center’s

9000 S. Rice Boulevard at North Braeswood

We welcome your support with a

donation of $18-Chai

No charge for children under 18. If you can, please bring a non-perishable

Passover food item to be donated to needy families.

Share this special event with family and friends!

Your check is your reservation

Make checks payable to NCJW by March 19

Sondra Shapiro, 6111 Braesheather, Houston, Texas 77096

For more information call 713-667-5694

or e-mail ncjwhouston@yahoo.com

11

Public AffairsGHS Partners with Planned Parenthood and SEARCH to Implement Plan A Initiative

On January 21, Greater Houston Section began its collabo-ration with Planned Parenthood, Inc. and SEARCH Home-less Center to train members to speak about contraception and sexually transmitted diseases.

Nineteen volunteers from all branches of GHS gathered to hear Meryl Cohen, Vice President of Education for Planned Parenthood and NCJW member, instruct them on how to best present information about the accessibility and availability of contraception as well as the prevalence and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases. The two-hour training session was held in preparation for NCJW volun-teers to work with female clients at SEARCH.

Two information sessions will be held in March for the SEARCH clients. Our NCJW volunteers were incredibly receptive to the training session and are eager to take their knowledge to help the women at SEARCH. Anyone interested in helping out with the information sessions at SEARCH or baby sitting with clients’ children should contact either Mardi Kunik at m or Eileen Silverman

Education Works is a broad coalition of health profession-als, social service groups, religious leaders, education professionals, policy organizations, and concerned Texans who support common sense solutions to keep our young people safe and healthy.

The Education Works coalition believes teenagers need honest information to make responsible choices about sex. The Education Works coalition is working to ensure that schools teach sexual health with a medically accurate and balanced approach teaching abstinence along with facts about contraception and responsible decision- making.

NCJW has signed on to support the common sense solu-tions to give teens practical information about health including:

• Teaching young people that abstinence is the best policy for avoiding pregnancy and disease and giving them the comprehensive information they need to protect themselves from unintended preg-nancy and STI’s including HIV.

• Using effective curricula based upon sound sci-ence and unbiased research, not ideology or politics.

• Education that helps young people learn to make healthy decisions, foster communication skills, de-velop meaningful relationships, and express affec-tion, love and intimacy in ways that are consistent with their family values.

• Education that respects and values young people and helps them become healthy, safe, responsible adults.

Education Works

Meryl Cohen (center) demonstrates contraception to Eileen Silverman (left) and Mardi Kunik (right)

at Plan A training session

12

Career Branch

President - Ruth BuziPresident-Elect - Bobbie CohenVP Membership - Joan Altshuler, Jan RoseVP Community Service - Sandra Daily, Mina PashkoffVP Public Affairs - Elizabeth (Liz) MorrisVP Fund Raising - Marlene Matzner, Joan WolochinVP Programming - Leah Premazon, Leda KarchmerVP Communication - Ann Reva Jacobson, Lucille GoldenVP Public Relations - Shiela MilchVP Strategic Planning - Lynne Davis VP Hospitality - Lynn Mitteldorf, Ruth OrenVP Special Events - Lisa GarmezyTreasurer - Florence BergerRecording Secretary - Ann OppmanCorresponding Secretary - Cynthia StetzerFinancial Secretary - Carol GoldfarbAdvisor - Bonnie Herst

West Houston Evening Branch

President - Terrie RothVP Administration - Rachel GardnerVP Membership - Ann Glasser, Elaine SilverVP Community Service - Roberta ClayVP Programming - Arlene Baker, Pat FarnellVP Fundraising - Nancy ReingoldVP Public Affairs - Elena Pelsinger, Estelle WeissburgVP Public Relations - OpenTreasurer/ Financial Secretary - Susan HertzCorresponding Secretary - Sandy RushworthRecording Secretary - Iris LittwitzSpecial Interest - OpenTribute Cards - Dale EisenshtatE Newsletter - Juliet WestAdvisor - Diane Statham

Greater Houston Daytime Branch

President - Phyllis UllmanPresident Elect - OpenVP Community Service - Sandy Harris, Sharon KaganVP FundraisingVP Membership - Elaine Kellner, Thelma RubinVP Prog/Special Events - Ruth Eagle, Elinor GoldbergVP Public Affairs - Andrea TurnerVP Public Relations - Robin Fleschler, Joyce GilbertTreasurer - Michelle GoodmarkFinancial Secretary - Ruth RabieRecording Secretary - Libby MarvinsCorresponding Secretary - Sheila Loewenstern Tribute Cards - Evelyn BrassParliamentarian - Rollie MollHistorian - Cindy SaxStrategic Planning - Deedee Ostfeld Directors - Bunny Radoff – Community Service - Halley Trevas – Public Relations - Marion Rosenwald - Public Affairs - Linda Addleman - Fundraising - Diane Dante – Membership - Rosine Chappell – Programming - Sherry Feldman – Programming - Zahava Haenosh – Programming - Cookie Portnoy – ProgrammingNominating Committee - Rosine Chappell, Eileen Silverman Ede Weiner, Evelyn Leightman (alternate)

Concerned Young Women Co-Presidents - Nicole Malka - Morgan WarrenVP Communications - Tami Lass AndrusVP Community Service - Bari Fishel - Elysa Goldman - Judi TurnerVP Fundraising - Heather Fleschler - Lindsay FleschlerVP Membership/Financial Secretary - Shayna ReichekVP Membership/Corresponding Secretary - Leah AbramsVP Programming - Dawn Blitz - Sandye Fertman - Melanie Herz PromeceneVP Public Affairs - Rene Kariel - Aria TatelmanRecording Secretary - Jill BellTreasurer - Jennifer FriedbergAdvisor - Joy Krohn

13

Israel Update

Israel Granting ProgramThe Greater Houston Section is partnering with the Center for Women’s Justice through a $2,500 grant. The Center for Women’s Justice represents Israeli women in divorce cases and works to protect the rights of women in Israel’s civil and rabbinic courts. This grant will support the Public Interest Litigation Program which helps empower women through legal advocacy work while establishing legal precedents in Israel’s courts.

I write these remarks the day Israel’s eighteenth prime minister is elected on February 10, 2009. Whoever is elected will be faced with the devastation of the “third sector”--the grassroots organizations who provide services to at-risk populations and who are themselves struggling with reduced resources as a result of the global economic disaster. It is these groups who help forge new strategies and new attempts to sustain a safety net for those who have been most affected by the global economic disas-ter. For many years now, organizations like NCJW have taken up the responsibility of providing additional funds for grassroots initiatives. And organizations such as NCJW have spoken out for those who have no voice. The new prime minister must somehow sort through the wreck-age and devise ways to meet the country’s most serious needs.

March 9 is International Agunot Day; a time to speak out for those who have no voice--for those who choose to move on and make a new life for themselves out of an unbearable marriage. Please speak out for them. On the eve of Purim, when we celebrate Queen Esther and her courageous and powerful actions on behalf of her Jew-ish community, we urge all to take action and speak out against this human rights violation. We seek the right for all Jews to live free of oppression, as did Queen Esther so long ago.

Let us hope that the new administration in Israel brings peace and prosperity to the region.

Shari Eshet

Report from IsraelMembership

The 2009 Life Member Appreciation Event, “Because You Are Special to NCJW,” was held March 1 at the Green House Gallery on West Alabama. All who attended were able to discover the treasures of this wonderful gallery and see and hear about the varied works from Houston artists who are passionate about the environment. The Green House Gallery is a dynamic new artists’ col-lective, offering beautifully diverse paintings, luminous hand-made ceramics, striking metal sculpture and wall hangings, and uniquely elegant wearable art. While exploring the gallery, Greater Houston Section mem-bers enjoyed delicious appetizers, desserts, and wine. They mingled with friends and had a chance to remember why the GHS is so important to them.

The Membership Committee worked very hard to put this event together: Rose Rose, Marcia Pappert, Ronnie Harrison, Elaine Silver, Ann Glasser, Shayna Reichek,

Elaine Kellner, and Heather Foox.

NCJW Girls Night Out (a new group for women in their 30’s and 40’s) had a fun evening out on February 19th at Etui in Highland Village. Lara Valentine spoke about her amaz-ing experience at Day on the Hill. El Matha Wilder led an informative and interesting packing seminar. Everyone enjoyed food and wine while shopping in the chic and beautiful fashion boutique.

GHS Presents Lively Membership Gatherings

Welcome to our new life and annual members

New Life MembersMidge BanchikSusan Septimus

Barbara SiegelmanLara Valentine

New MembersAnn Cooper

Renee MargolinShannon Margolis

Andrea Strom

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Tribute Cards

General Tribute CardsDaytime Branch

In Honor of:Sandy Harris – receiving the 2009 Hannah G. Solomon award Thelma Rubin Adine Holland Gloria Gordon Libby Marvins Diane and Morris Dante Karen Freedman Marcia and Jerry Pappert Eileen and Dan Silverman Cookie Portnoy Minna HochsteinPunkin and Walter Hecht – chosen as Starlight Ball honorees Barbara KonigRae Rogul – her birthday Eileen Silverman Sandy Harris Amy Grossman Diane Dante Marcia PappertMother of Sheila Loewenstern – 98th birthday Rollie MollArlene Baker – winning the 2009 Isabelle Novitt Award Ede WeinerDena Marks Sokolow – her support and expertise Sandy HarrisJackie Pontello - receiving the 2009 Hannah G. Solomon award Karen FreedmanAnn Oppman – for her good work on many projects Marge MayerMichele Goldberg – marriage of her son

In Memory of:Jerome Robinson, husband of Minette Robinson Eileen and Dan Silverman Ede and Bruce WeinerKathryn Z. Epstein – wife of Dr. Michael Epstein Ede and Bruce WeinerMel Fine – husband of Peggy Fine Ada Jane FudmanStanley Lester Schneider – son of Audrey Schneider Eileen and Dan Silverman

Yad b’Yad Tribute CardsWest Houston Evening Branch In Honor of:Arlene Baker - receiving 2009 Isabelle Novitt Award Gloria and Darrell Gordon Dale and Bob Eisenshtat Elaine and Jay Silver Pat and Michael Farnell

Gloria and Darrell Gordon - birth of new grandson Pat and Michael Farnell

In Memory of:Toby Singhania - in memory of her mother Pat and Michael Farnell West Houston Evening Branch Board Ann and Michael GlasserThe Kozberg Family - in memory of Marcy Kozberg West Houston Evening Branch BoardGloria and David Frankel - in memory of David’s mother Pat and Michael Farnell

Concerned Young Women Branch

In Honor of:Amy and Steve Pass – birth of their twins, Nathan Eli and Lorelei Abigail Concerned Young Women Branch

In Memory of:Sender Fleschler – grandfather

Melissa PeskinHeather and Lindsay Fleschler

“To keep a lamp burning, we have to keep putting oil in it.”

~ Mother Teresa

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Mitzvah DonationsIn Honor of:

Solomon award: Marsha Abramson, Joan Alexan-der, Cathy Binstock, Margaret Bogle, Sara Braham, Marian Braun, Karen Buckwold, Melanie Butler, Linda Caplan, Margie Cohen, Marsha and Joe Cohen, Debby Colton, The Cominsky Family, Faye Copland, Freddie and Paul Croft, Vicky Dyer-Smith, Belinda Fischer, Marcia Forbes, Hilda and Bobbie Frank, Cora Frohman, Charlotte Frucht, Robert and Carole Goodman, Sally Jacobs, Iris Littwitz, Shirley Loeser, Barbara Pauly, Sally Pehr, Tricia and Mark Rauch, Judy Rosenstock, Linda Susman, Dolores Wilkenfeld, Charla Wilson, Judy Yambra, La Monica Yarborough, Linda Zoll

Solomon award: Joan Alexander; Melody Braun-Wilds; Melanie Butler; Judy Rosenstock

Joy of Reading Program in honor of Sandy Harris: Celine Hecht AVDA in honor of Sandy Harris: Renee Margolin

In honor of Karen Freedman: Punkin and Walter Hecht

Yahrzeits: Jack “Chaim” Brass, husbandEva Kurland Dvorkin, mother Carol Ann Meyer, sisterEvelyn J. Brass

It’s Personal

Mazel TovMichele Goldberg -- marriage of her son DannyGloria and Darrell Gordon -- birth of grandchildAmy and Steve Pass – birth of twins, Nathan Eli and Lorelei Abigail CondolencesSammy and Dr. Robin Fleschler -- death of Sammy’s fatherMelissa Peskin – death of grandfather, Sender FleschlerHeather and Lindsay Fleschler – death of grandfather, Sender Fleschler

Important ContactsChair - Governing Board – Eileen Muslin

President – Career Branch – Ruth Buzi

President – Concerned Young Women – Elysa Goldman

President – Concerned Young Women – Morgan Warren

President – Concerned Young Women – Marni Zarin

President – Greater Houston Daytime Branch – Donna Price

President – West Houston Evening Branch – Terrie Roth

Personals – Sheila Loewenstern

TRIBUTE CARDS

Tribute cards are available at all Section functions. Your tribute card(s) will be mailed promptly and announced in the next Bulletin.

Or you may purchase cards in advance and notify your Branch contact to publish in the Bulletin. All proceeds remain with GHS.

Career Branch Education Scholarship CardsDr. Lee K. Feine Scholarship($5/card, $18/4 cards)Daniel Lee Mattis Scholarship($5/card, $18/4 cards)Contact: Cynthia Stetzer 281-350-3124 3742 Blue Lake Dr. Spring, TX 77388

Daytime Branch Tribute CardsGeneral Tribute Cards($5 minumum/card)Contact: Evelyn Brass 713-784-6665 1535 Potomac, #D Houston, TX 77057

West Houston Evening Branch Tribute CardsYad B’Yad Israel Program($5 minimum/card)Contact: Dale Eisenshtat 281-579-0144 606 Sancroft Court Katy, TX 77450

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Address Service Requested

Non-Pro!t OrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDPermit #9217Houston, TX

Upcoming EventsMarch19th GB Board Meeting - 7:00 p.m.22nd

23rd DB Book Circle - 9:30 a.m.25th CYW Board Meeting - 7:00 p.m.26th Women’s Intergenerational Seder - 6:30 p.m.27th Bulletin Deadline31st CB Book Circle - 7:30 p.m.

April1st CYW Program Meeting - 7:00 p.m.6th DB Board Meeting - 9:30 a.m.6th WHEB Board Meeting - 7:30 p.m.8-11th Passover13th Joy of Reading/HTT - 10:00 a.m.13th WHEB Book Circle - 7:30 p.m.14th CB Board Meeting - 7:30 p.m.15-16th Passover20th WHEB Program Meeting - 7:30 p.m.23rd GB Board Meeting - 7:00 p.m.24th DB Program Meeting - 9:30 a.m.26th CB Scholarship Brunch -10:30 a.m.28th CB Book Circle - 7:30 p.m.29th CYW Board Meeting - 7:00 p.m.

May4th DB Board Meeting - 9:30 a.m.4th WHEB Board Meeting - 7:30 p.m.6th CYW Program Meeting - 7:00 p.m.11th Joy of Reading/HTT - 10:00 a.m.11th WHEB Book Circle - 7:30 p.m.12th CB Board Meeting - 7:30 p.m.13th Installation17th CB Fundraiser and Theater Party26th CB Book Circle - 7:30 p.m.27th CYW Board Meeting - 7:00 p.m.28-30th Shavuot

The BULLETIN

Eileen Muslin .................... Chair, Governing BoardPam Geyer .................Public Relations, Gov. BoardHalley Trevas .........................................EditorJoyce Gilbert ....................Publishing CoordinatorRobin Fleschler ..........................Associate EditorLiz Leiman ................................Associate EditorEvelyn Brass ................................... Contrib. EdRuth Buzi ...................................... Contrib. Ed Jennifer Claridge ............................. Contrib. EdDale Eisenshtat ............................... Contrib. EdShari Eshet .................................... Contrib. Ed Heather Foox ................................. Contrib. EdRhonda Glick .................................. Contrib. EdSandy Halpern ................................ Contrib. EdSandy Harris ................................... Contrib. EdTerry Hausner ................................. Contrib. Ed Bonnie Herst .................................. Contrib. EdJoy Krohn ...................................... Contrib. Ed Mardi Kunik .................................... Contrib. EdSheila Loewenstern .......................... Contrib. EdLibby Marvins ................................. Contrib. Ed Ann Oppman .................................. Contrib. EdDonna Price ................................... Contrib. EdRuth Rabie ..................................... Contrib. Ed Terrie Roth .................................... Contrib. EdBarbara Sadof ................................. Contrib. Ed Eileen Silverman.............................. Contrib. EdCynthia Stetzer ............................... Contrib. Ed

................................. Contrib. Ed Michele Patrick .........................Layout & DesignPat Hauptman (R Printing) .......................Printing

6102 Queensloch Houston, Texas 77096

Voicemail 713-667-5694

Website for NCJW-Houston - www.ncjwhouston.orgWebsite for NCJW-National - www.ncjw.org

is published 5 times a year by NCJW, Greater Houston Section

CB - Career Branch GB - Governing BoardDB - Daytime Branch GHS - Greater Houston SectionCYW - Concerned Young Women WHEB - West Houston Evening Branch