May 2023 Bulletin

THE BULLETIN MAY 2023 • VOL. 105 • IYAR-SIVAN, 5783 • WWW.BETHELNR.ORG ‫ד ׁ ְש ַת ל ו ּ לִ י אֲ בָ ָה ִת י — ׁ ְש ַת לִ י ָנ מֵ י לִ ְב ָר ִא י‬ ּ ִ ‫ִ ּכ י הֵ י כִ י‬ "As my ancestors planted for me, so I now plant for future generations" (Ta'anit 23a)

Beth El Synagogue Center warmly invites you to join us at our

Annual Gala THURSDAY, JUNE 8, 2023 19 SIVAN 5783 7:00-10:00PM Honoring The Silverman Family:

Louise & Jason Silverman and Emily Bromberg & Stephen Silverman and President's Ne'emanim Award Recipients

Caroline Fox & David Shechter To purchase tickets and place a journal ad visit bethelnr.org/gala2023 Craft Beer & Cocktails · Silent Auction · Dinner Tribute to our Honorees · Music · Dancing

festive attire

RABBI’S MESSAGE

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE GALA HONOREES

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YOUTH & FAMILY ENGAGEMENT

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KIDS @ BETH EL

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MENTAL HEALTH INITIATIVES AT BETH EL 18

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

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CHILD SAFETY

SECURITY UPDATE

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NURSERY SCHOOL NEWS

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KERUV KORNER

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THE SHORESH HALEV CENTER FOR JEWISH MUSIC 16

THE TRUTH ABOUT REFUGEE RESETTLEMENT 20

TEEN COMMUNITY

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SISTERHOOD HAPPENINGS 16

BETH EL NEWS

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SMART GROUP

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ISRAEL 360

BETH EL GIVES

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RABBI’S MESSAGE

The Bulletin May 2023

Dear Friends, There was a series of talks given by the Hartman Institute this year on the topic of Boundaries and Belonging. Different scholars reflected on contemporary challenges around what it means to belong to a community, and how the boundaries of community are being redefined to include people who may have previously been on the margins of synagogue life. Many Conservative synagogues in Westchester were invited to attend each lecture. These lectures raised many important issues that are critical to consider as we build toward the future, and each synagogue had a small team of lay leaders that discussed these issues after each lecture.

We explored questions concerning the diversity in Jewish families and the ways in which non-Jewish family members experience our shul. What is our vision for including them in synagogue life and what are the limits? The Conservative Movement historically focused these questions on marriage alone, but has often neglected questions of identity and how our communities can and should work to meet the spiritual needs of the Gentile partners in Jewish families.

We also explored questions around egalitarianism and ritual. What does it mean to create communities anchored in Jewish notions of egalitarianism without requiring women to the same ritual standards historically required of men, in particular around tallitot and head coverings in shul and on the bimah? What are the lessons learned by children in the community who see inconsistency around the use of these ritual objects? These questions also raised conversation around how these policies impact the experience of people who identify as non-binary?

It is important to address these questions in a way that grounds us firmly in our tradition while exploring ways to make space for people to be their full selves within our community.

Boundaries that define acceptable norms are critical for a community to flourish. Synagogues that abandon appropriate boundaries in the name of inclusion lose the core of their identity, and this leads to a spiritual impoverishment for everyone.

It is important to explore how far these boundaries can and should stretch so that those who wish to be part of our community may do so, while still remaining true to our core values. The groups in the shul formally exploring these questions are the clergy team, the Keruv Committee, the Ritual Committee, and a small group of leaders who attended the Hartman lectures.

We will share these explorations with the larger community and communicate openly about what we are learning, and we will offer more educational opportunities for others in our shul to explore these questions together. I believe that this process of reflection and study will lead to a stronger community and I look forward to this exploration.

L’Shalom, L’Shalom, Rabbi David A. Schuck

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE becoming intimately familiar with what the shul needs and what it can afford. I assure you that every penny we earn from the Gala goes to ensuring that the great programming and spiritual support we all benefit from can continue.

Please plan to attend what will be a great evening of dinner, drinks and dancing, purchase an ad in the journal and a raffle ticket or two, and participate in our silent auction.

Most importantly, please come pay tribute to The Silverman Family: Jay and Louise, who joined Beth El the year of my birth and have remained active ever since, and Steve Silverman and Emily Bromberg, who have followed Louise and Jay’s example of being lifelong supporters of the synagogue. Please also come celebrate this year’s President’s Ne’emanim Award recipients, Carrie Fox and David Shechter. Carrie and David are the ultimate “doers.” Carrie is the chair of our Keruv Committee, is a co-chair of the Membership Committee, has been very involved in shaping the religious school, and is just a fantastic cheerleader for and participant in nearly everything that goes on at Beth El. David is a long-serving Trustee and Officer, a member of the Ritual Committee, and has been an essential part of our technology team. To me, Beth El will always be the best, and these honorees represent Beth El at its best. I hope to see you on June 8.

While I will soon be stepping off center stage, I am excited to continue to be a part of all the great things that are happening at Beth El. Still, these last few months of being President will be very bittersweet for me, as it has truly been a privilege to serve this community. One of the benefits of this experience has been getting to know so many of you, some of whom I may have never otherwise come to interact with had it not been for taking on this role. You are the lifeblood of this community, and it is you who make this community such a special one. It is a cliche that a synagogue President is a human complaint box, and while I have received my fair share of “feedback” over the past nearly-two years, I am greatly appreciative that any criticism I heard was almost always delivered politely and genuinely in the spirit of improving the shul for all, not just the person reaching out to me. In fact, your input is critical to effectuating positive change. So please continue to speak up.

And thank you for your support of Beth El and for truly caring about this community.

Once again, thank you for the honor of allowing me to serve as President.

Robert Patchen

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The Bulletin November 2022

As we head deeper into Spring, my time as President of Beth El is coming to a close, and this will be my last article for the Beth El Bulletin. My first article was about the reintroduction of the Bulletin, which had gone dormant during Covid. I think this publication continues to be a nice and important way for our congregants to keep abreast of all that is happening at Beth El, in a medium that lends itself to more relaxed reading than the computers and phones that can often be the greatest sources of stress in our lives. Still, digital in the 21st Century can also greatly enhance our lives, and so I am very excited about the rollout of Beth El’s new website, which by the time you read this will be live. This was one of the projects that as my term as President began I felt sorely needed to be launched, and I am thrilled that we have achieved this goal. The website presents a much more modern face of Beth El than its predecessor, with high resolution pictures and vivid, exciting videos. All that Beth El has to offer is now truly at your fingertips in an organized and user-friendly way. While you have already received an email from me that thanks all the people that had a hand in the redesign, it’s worth repeating that this accomplishment really could not have been achieved without a herculean effort having been put in by Nina Luban, who collaborated with Morgan Long, our Marketing and Communications Director, to pull everything together. Mia Mandel and Rabbi Fisher were also instrumental in editing the content that comprises the website. So when you put down this copy of the Bulletin, I encourage you to go back to your computer, phone or tablet and check out the new website. We welcome your input as to what you like and what you think can be improved.

At the same time we introduced the new website, we rolled out our new logo. If I had a nickel for every draft and iteration we rejected, you might have been spared from next year’s B’Yachad campaign. The old saying, “two Jews, three opinions,” was really proven true with this effort, but when we were presented with the scheme that we ultimately adopted, there was unanimous excitement around it (agreeing on specific color shades and font size…not so much). I think many people will interpret the logo in many different ways, but to me it represents growth and renewal, both of which are happening at Beth El in many different and exciting ways.

There are still some very important things set to take place at Beth El before June 30 (the day my term ends), and I want to highlight the biggest of all - our annual Gala, on Thursday evening, June 8. It is critical that everyone does their part to support the Gala, as it is our second biggest fundraiser of the year. One of the less glorious aspects about being a synagogue President is seeing how the operating budget functions and

2023 Gala Honorees Louise and Jay Silverman

The Bulletin May 2023

Louise and Jay Silverman joined Beth El in 1968. Their membership at Beth El has been at the core of their Jewish identity and community life for almost 60 years. It has been a catalyst for them to make many of their life-long friends, including some of whom have passed too soon.

Louise, from Fairfield, CT, where she had been regional president of B’nai Brith Girls during high school, and Jay, from Malden, MA, moved to New Rochelle in 1963, when Jay joined a Pediatric practice following his completion of a Pediatric residency at Yale New Haven Medical Center. Louise and Jay had met in Boston, while Louise was an undergraduate at Boston University, and Jay was finishing a Master’s degree in Biochemistry, while a third year student at Boston University School of Medicine, from which he earned his medical degree in 1960.

Within a short time of their move to New Rochelle, Louise befriended Beth El’s Sylvia Halpern, who mentored her in starting and becoming the first president of a young women’s Hadassah group, Aviva. Husbands of these women met, formed friendships and many subsequently joined a local B’nai B’rith chapter. In 1968, Jay and Louise joined Beth El, just as its new sanctuary was being built and enrolled Stephen,

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then six years old, in the Beth El Hebrew School Machinah program and the Beth El Summer Camp.

Soon after, Jay was elected to the Beth El Board of Trustees.

Stephen and his sisters Debbie and Judith each graduated from Beth El Community Hebrew High School, during a time of evolution in the Shul’s religious practices. In the 1970’s, young women were only permitted to become a Bat Mitzvah on a Friday evening.

Through the effort of many strong women and supportive men at Beth El, an Alternative Service was created, allowing women to participate more fully in services. By the early 80’s, young women were welcomed to the Bima on the Saturday of Shabbat to become Bat Mitzvah.

We could not be more thrilled with the honor Beth El has chosen to give our family. We are proud of the education our children received here, the nurturing of basic Jewish values and fostering of love for Israel and a Jewish way of life. Debbie serves as Administrator of SAJ in New York City, while Judith as Board VP of the Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg.

Beth El has indeed laid the living Jewish foundation of the Silverman Family, L’dor V’dor, from generation to generation.

We are forever grateful.

2023 Gala Honorees Emily Bromberg and Stephen Silverman Emily Bromberg and Stephen Silverman grew up and raised their children, Danielle, 27, and Sam, 24, in New Rochelle. They were married in 1991 by Beth El’s Rabbi Melvin Sirner and Cantor Laurence Avery.

Emily earned her BA at Cornell University, and her MPA at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs and Stephen earned his BA at Cornell University and his JD at Northwestern University School of Law. When Emily and Stephen returned to New Rochelle after years in Washington, where Emily served as Deputy Assistant to the President for Inter-governmental Affairs and Stephen served as Deputy Assistant to the President for Cabinet Affairs, they signed Danielle and Sam up for Beth El Day Camp. Both children attended Beth El Hebrew School and became B’nai Mitzvot at the Shul.

Stephen traveled with Rabbi Schuck and congregants on Encounter in Israel, which provided new perspective and participated in Journey, through which he co-led the creation of The Den, Rise and Sing with Cantor Gaby, and the Beth El Prayer Team.

Emily served as SVP and Chief of Staff at the ADL from

2017 until 2021, managing numerous challenging moments during a time of rising antisemitism worldwide, as an advisor to Senator Hillary Clinton in her winning campaign for Senate in 2000, Chief of Staff to Jane and Brian Williams, and as Director of Hillary Clinton’s Surrogate Operations for the 2016 Presidential campaign. She is currently Managing Partner at Ichor Strategies, a consultancy working at the intersection of urban communities and corporations to build transformative partnerships.

Stephen led communications for Citi’s consumer businesses globally, served at the Federal Reserve Bank and as chief speech writer to Governor Andrew Cuomo. He is President and CEO of Endurance Strategic Communications, LLC, which advises companies, non-profits and executives on advocacy, policy, and crisis communications strategy.

Stephen and Emily are deeply committed to the vision of Rabbi Schuck and appreciate all his efforts as well as those of the other clergy and staff. They are thrilled to be honored with Stephen’s parents Jay and Louise Silverman and Carrie Fox and David Shechter.

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2023 Gala Honorees Carrie Fox and David Shechter President’s Ne’emanim Award Recipients

The Bulletin May 2023

Carrie Fox and David Shechter and their children Ilana, Jacob, and Naomi have been Beth El members since 2010. Carrie grew up in Manhattan, where she was a teen leader at Temple Shaaray Tefila and in NFTY. David grew up on Long Island, where his family was active at Midway Jewish Center.

David’s many summers at Camp Ramah provided the foundation for his Jewish education and kavanah. David and Carrie graduated from Cornell University in 1995, where he was a member of AEPi, and both were active in Hillel.

Carrie, having spent a semester abroad at Ben-Gurion University in Israel, recruited David to spend a semester there. They started dating when David returned to Cornell in 1994 and were married in 1999.

Carrie earned a JD at Yale Law School and is Counsel at IBM. David, currently Professor of Biochemistry at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, earned a PhD at Columbia University and did postdoctoral training at The Rockefeller University. David’s lab studies molecular mechanisms of regulation of gene expression.

David and Carrie quickly became actively engaged in the Beth El community. Both have been members of the Board

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of Trustees. Carrie is chair of the Keruv Committee, served on the Religious School Board for 11 years including as chair, organized the member phone tree during the pandemic, and has served on committees such as the Membership Committee, Journey Vision team, Nursery School Board, and Assistant Rabbi search committee. David is currently a Vice President, a member of the Ritual Committee, and he coordinates synagogue efforts in streaming, audio-visual, and IT. For many years, David was a Co-Chair of the Havurah service and organized the Kasakove High Holiday Service. Their children have attended Nursery School, Religious School, Day Camp, youth group and were regulars at Shabbat youth services. The Shechter family’s involvement expanded when David’s parents Cindy & Ira Shechter joined Beth El in 2018. Carrie and David are honored to receive this award and to be honored together with the Silverman family who have exemplified multi-generational dedication to Beth El, and look forward to celebrating with the Beth El community.

Nursery School News Spring has been a busy and festive time here at the Nursery School as we prepared for the Passover holiday. As we did at Hanukkah time, we once again approached our “ritual item” making in a new way. We divided our efforts according to grade level. Our two year olds focused on matzah, so they created matzah trays. Our Threes created afikomen bags, and our four year olds made their own matzah covers. These activities involved sewing, weaving, pasting and painting.

Our children are accustomed to baking challah for Shabbat.

We now shifted into Matzah mode. We compared the process of baking matzah vs. baking challah. The singing of Passover tunes, including the Four Questions, permeated the halls of our school.

Our days were spent washing, scrubbing, wiping, and cleaning all of our tables and chairs with soapy water and sponges to get our classrooms ready for Pesach. We were also very busy chopping apples and raisins for charoset and making matzah balls! Another focus was studying the order of the

seder with its 15 steps. As we delved into each step, we did that activity in our classrooms which prepared us beautifully for our Model Seders.

The children conducted Bedikat chametz, the search for any chametz in the classroom. This was an exciting activity for the children. We shut off the lights as the children carried dustpans and feathers and began their search. Teachers strategically places bags of chametz around the room so that the search was a success. This search culminated in a burning ceremony outdoors, where we disposed of the remaining portions of chametz.

Passover was not just about the Seder but included discussions about rebirth and renewal. We watched as our parsley began to sprout just in time for the Seder dipping ceremony. Now that spring is here, teachers and children alike are enjoying the warm weather with extended outside time. It’s wonderful for the children to run and climb and play in the fresh air!

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The Bulletin May 2023

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Keruv Korner “Keruv” = Hebrew for “to draw closer”

Pride Shabbat is coming…

May and June are such lovely months. Flowers bloom and warm air beckons. We celebrate weddings, graduations, Mother’s Day, Shavuot, Father’s Day, Juneteenth… and, of course, Pride Shabbat. This year Beth El Synagogue Center will host a very special guest speaker on Pride Shabbat morning, June 24th.

Rachel Kunstadt, a native of Westchester who lives in Astoria Queens, is a true renaissance woman. A playwright, Theater Producer, essayist, speaker, and the Director of Adult Jewish Learning at the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan, Rachel takes pride in being her authentic self. She will openly discuss her journey to embrace being a Queer, Jewish woman who has ADHD and a passion for life. Rachel will be speaking during Shabbat morning services and will stay for our special Pride Shabbat kiddush luncheon afterward. She will be happy to answer questions or continue the conversation over lunch.

We also like to provide honors to members of the LGBTQ+

The next day, Sunday, June 25th, is New York City’s annual Pride Parade. Beth El once again plans to be one of the sponsors for the “Jew York Pride” contingent of the parade, under the auspices of Keshet. If you would like to march in the parade under our banner, please contact Elise in advance at elisekrichman@gmail.com. We must register each participant’s name with Keshet before the parade.

We can’t wait to celebrate all of us together.

Elise Richman, Keruv Committee Member

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community that morning. Please contact Elise Richman (elisekrichman@gmail.com) if you would like to participate by opening the ark, having an aliyah, reading Torah or any other way. Join us for an inspiring Shabbat morning and stay for a rainbow bagel and a schmear!

Teen Community Read on for snapshots of teen offerings at Beth El this year and beyond!

Teens @ Beth El Our teen program for 8th-12th graders is a place for Beth El teens and their friends to connect with one another, cultivate leadership skills, have fun, celebrate Jewish holidays, volunteer, and more! Events are created by teen leaders in our community and take place both on site at Beth El and around Westchester and NYC. For more information, to get involved, and to learn about the Teen Leadership Board, contact Bekkah Gold at teens@bethelnr.org.

Westchester Teen Collab In partnership with five other Westchester synagogues, the Teen Collab is our main opportunity for Jewish education for 8th-12th graders. This program offers multiple tracks so that teens can choose what they want to learn. This past year, topics ranged from Israeli Music to Jewish Social Justice to Improv… and beyond. Sessions take place on weeknight evenings at the MidWestchester JCC (dates for 2023-2024 are TBD). Each session begins with dinner and an opportunity for students to connect with teens from other communities. Please contact Alyssa Schwager, Director of Youth and Family Engagement, for information and registration at aschwager@bethelnr.org.

The Bulletin May 2023

Teen Shabbat Experiences Throughout the year, we have special opportunities for teens to celebrate Shabbat with their peers at Beth El. In addition to our annual Youth and Family Engagement Shabbat where teens take over the leading of the Shabbat morning service in the sanctuary, we are rebuilding our culture of Shabbat services led by teens for teens. We also encourage teens to participate in services on a regular basis by reading Torah.

This past year, we launched a new program training teens who are confident Torah readers to mentor other teens as they work to strengthen their skills. To learn more about these initiatives or to participate in and lead Shabbat services, contact Cantor Gaby at gschvartz@bethelnr.org. Teens are also invited throughout the year for Shabbat dinners in the rabbis’ homes-keep an eye on teen emails for these opportunities!

Madrichim and Madrichot (Religious School Assistants) Our K-7th Religious School has a broad spectrum of opportunities for teens to get involved. Whether helping out in the office or supporting teachers in classrooms, this opportunity is for teens in grades 8-12 and can take place on Thursdays, Sundays, or both. To apply to be a madrich/a next year, email Alyssa Schwager, Director of Youth and Family Engagement, at aschwager@bethelnr.org.

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Leadership Training This special program is designed for madrichim/madrichot (Religious School assistants) and Beth El’s Teen Leadership Board to develop and strengthen our teen leaders as they workshop different aspects of leadership, including recruiting peers to participate, planning programs, and creating educational opportunities for kids and teens. Alyssa and Bekkah will be in touch with teens about participation in this initiative.

Teen Travel (Re)starting in the 2023-2024 school year, we will be offering teen travel opportunities, including both domestic and international trips. These opportunities are open to Beth El high school students, with limited spaces available to teens who are not members of Beth El. These trips will help our teens deepen their relationships with one another and Beth El’s clergy and staff, expose participants to new places and ideas, and nurture a sense of global responsibility as Jews. Dates and locations will be shared soon.

Interfaith Teen Fellowship We are starting a fellowship for Westchester teens in partnership with multiple faith communities. This program will provide teens with the opportunity to learn about other religious traditions, connect with teens from different backgrounds, and engage in acts of service to the broader community. For more information about this opportunity, please contact Alyssa Schwager, Director of Youth and Family Engagement, at aschwager@bethelnr.org.

VOLUNTEER AT BETH EL! Calling all volunteers!

Beth El is looking for volunteers to help lead our efforts to expand Beth El’s involvement in the following areas: social action, chesed, and community building/social programming.

If you are someone who is looking to get more involved, please contact Stephanie Lederman at slederman@bethelnr.org.

Senior Mature Adults Retired Together (SMART)

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Youth & Family Engagement Department Hi everyone, We have been very busy since Passover! Thank you for your support and participation for the Youth & Family Engagement Department’s annual Purim events: our Purim Campaign/ Matanot Le’evyonim, and our Purim Carnival. These were both very successful thanks to your support! Many thanks to Samantha Katzenberg, who led our Purim Carnival, and all of the volunteers of many generations who made it possible.

For Passover, we prepared for the holiday with The Exodus Games—a mini-Maccabiah/color war of six teams whose challenges and activities led us through the holiday. We had one station of relay races related to the 15 steps of the seder, one station with challenges related to the Exodus story, and one station focusing on our internal preparations for Passover.

After Spring/Passover Break, we jumped right into our Yom Ha’Atzmaut preparations. Morah Beth, our art teacher in the Religious School, worked on an Israel-themed, school wide art project to display. We also hosted Israel’s 75th Birthday Party for families with children with special needs to celebrate Israel and build community.

We also celebrated the end of the Religious School year with a Family Program on Sunday, May 7 at 11 am, as well as our Gesher graduation on Thursday, May 11.

Get excited for our Shavuot ice cream party in May, as well as a Youth & Family Swim Night in June!

Best, Alyssa Schwager

The Bulletin May 2023

Kitah Gimel: made pillows to use to recline at their Passover seders.

The Exodus Games: putting the events of the Exodus Story in the correct sequence, in order to unlock the relay races!

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Kitah Hey: studied heroes of the Passover story, and then did presentations.

Kids @ Beth El Our programming designed for kids (and their families) is a crucial component of our Beth El community. We come to celebrate Jewish moments, make new friends (and connect with old friends), spend time with our Beth El family, and have FUN! Our programs take place both at Beth El and off-site, and include weekday programs, weekend programs, Shabbat programs and holiday programs. For more information and to get involved, contact Alyssa Schwager at aschwager@bethelnr.org.

Shabbat Service Participation: We love having our children participate in Shabbat services all year long! Children are always welcome to attend services, and as they get older, they can begin leading prayers such as Ashrei, Ein Keloheinu, Aleinu, Anim Zemirot and Adon Olam. Cantor Gaby has been working to prepare our kids, and they are starting to lead with more frequency. If you’d like your child to sign up, please be in touch with Cantor Gaby at gschvartz@bethelnr.org.

SHABBAT AND HOLIDAYS Tot Shabbat: Tot Shabbat meets every Saturday and on Jewish holidays at 10:30. This service is geared towards kids under 5 and their families. We joyfully sing, pray, dance and celebrate Shabbat together weekly! Tot Shabbat and Mini Minyan may be combined during holiday weekends.

Mini Minyan: Mini Minyan is our “next step” and meets every Saturday and on Jewish holidays at 10:30. This service is geared towards early elementary-aged children, approximately kindergarten to third grade. Family attendance is encouraged but optional.

In Mini Minyan, we focus more on prayers, discussion and stories, and our children love helping to lead the prayers they know! Mini Minyan and Tot Shabbat may be combined during holiday weekends.

Parsha Club: Geared towards our older elementary schoolers, approximately fourth through sixth grade, Parsha Club meets on the first Shabbat of each month at 11:00. Parsha Club focuses more in-depth on leading prayers found in the Shabbat service, and includes a relevant, parsha-themed discussion.

On other weeks and during Jewish holidays, kids in this age group are invited to join the clergy and/or Alyssa in Torah or holiday-related discussions.

Youth & Family Engagement Shabbat: Join us for our annual Youth & Family Shabbat! We invite children and families of all ages, stages, and schools to join us at Beth El. Shirateinu performs on Friday night during our extra-kid-friendly services and Shabbat dinner, and our Teens takeover Shabbat morning services on Saturday--filling every role from announcing pages to reading Torah to giving the sermon!. We also include an educators’ panel during Kiddush luncheon and invite representatives from a variety of local Jewish day schools to join our community for this special Shabbat.

EDUCATION Religious School: Our Religious School is for K-7th graders who do not attend a full-time Jewish day school. Our program meets on Sunday mornings and Thursday afternoons during the school year.

We focus on Jewish holidays, Torah stories, Hebrew reading and Tefillah, Israel, mitzvot and Jewish values, and general Jewish life in our weekly sessions. We also include time with our art teacher and Shinshinim (teen Israeli emissaries), as well as Tefillah with Cantor Gaby and Shirateinu (children’s choir– see below) with Music Director Jack Klebanow. In addition to our experienced teaching staff of classroom teachers, we also have multiple learning and behavior specialists on staff to support our learners’ diverse needs.

BE Mitzvah Experience: As your child approaches their b’nei mitzvah celebrations at Beth El, 6th graders and their parents/guardians participate in our BE Mitzvah Experience. These sessions are led by the Beth El clergy team and focus on exploring Jewish values as a family, developing connections as a cohort, and cultivating relationships with the clergy.

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The Bulletin May 2023

COMMUNITY BUILDING & FUN PROGRAMS Youth Group activities: Roughly once per month, we bring our youth community together for a special program! These include fun activities such as apple picking, visiting a petting zoo, Hanukkah Day of Chesed, ice skating, our Purim Carnival, and more!

Westchester Jewish Basketball League: WJBL runs a fall/winter basketball league for 5th-12th graders. Our current team is for 5th & 6th graders from within and beyond the Beth El community. They play weekly games with one weekly practice, and the team is focused on recreational skill-building, sportsmanship, and building community. Noah Kolodny and Talya Cohen are our volunteer coaches. If you are interested in learning more, or want to explore starting a team for older players, please be in touch!

Kids @ Beth El continued

The Bulletin May 2023

Shirateinu: Shirateinu is our children’s choir open to all children in K-5 at Beth El! They perform at various synagogue events, including Youth & Family Shabbat, Purim megillah reading, and various Havallah/concert programs throughout the year.

Shirateinu rehearses on Sunday mornings, and all Religious School learners in grades K-5th participate weekly. If your child would like to join Shirateinu and does not attend Religious School, they are welcome and invited! Please email Jack Klebanow (jklebanow@bethelnr.org) for more information!

Nursery School Beth El Nursery School establishes a foundation for learning in a warm and nurturing environment for children ages 18

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months to 4 years old and their families. Our program, which is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education, is an interconnected web of practices anchored by our understanding of children as being eager to explore and learn, competent and resourceful, ready to collaborate, and full of wonder and delight.

Camp Beth El day camp offers campers fun-filled days, memories, and friendships. An authentic summertime experience in a safe and caring Jewish environment for children ages 2-12.

Our mission is simple, teaching positive values and traditions, physical, social, and emotional growth for every child.

Volunteer Spotlight Casino Night Committee This month we’re excited to spotlight the Nursery School Casino Night Committee: Kara Kalman, Andrea Fleishaker, Simcha Bergman, and Meryl Goldstein. Casino Night took place on March 11, was attended by 83 people, and all had a great time playing casino games and getting to know each other. We raised $5000 to help support our Nursery School and we’re looking forward to another successful and vibrant Casino Night next year!

The answers below are from Meryl Goldstein.

3. What are you looking forward to about next year’s Casino Night?

It was such a good excuse to put on a fabulous dress and heelssomething I have really missed being the parent of young children during a pandemic. I can’t wait to help plan Casino Night again next year!

1. W hat motivated you to join the Nursery School Casino Night Committee?

I wanted to get involved in my local Jewish community, just like my parents did when I was a kid. Joining the Casino Night Committee seemed like an excellent way to be a part of a community- building event that would make a big impact on the Nursery School and enrich our children’s experience.

As a newer parent in the area, the Casino Night Committee was also an excellent way to meet other parents and work towards a common goal - to help to enrich the daily lives of our children at Beth El.

4. What did you learn from planning this year’s casino night?

Casino Night planning was truly a team effort. I learned working together on a committee can actually be fun! Through planning Casino Night, I developed friendships and bonds. Since, we’ve kept it going with awesome play dates.

I also learned how to fundraise from start to finish. I did not have any experience in this realm and I really pushed myself outside of my comfort zone.

We really depended on the community and they really responded.

We had over 50 donations! Securing that generous donation of a case of Cincoro tequila from Gary and Deanie Levine was probably my best score. Our specialty cocktails made the night!

2. H ow did Casino Night turn out? What was the best part?

The party lasted well past midnight. But we were all having so much fun we didn’t want the night to end! (Luckily North End Tavern stocked our bar so well it didn’t have to!) It was great to hang out with our fellow nursery school parents. Our kids are friends and now we are too!

Plus, my husband Chandan won the Poker Tournament and tickets to the Rangers. So now we have another reason to get a babysitter for a fun night out!

5. H ow can people get involved in planning Casino Night for next year?

We would love for more families to participate and join us at Casino Night! There are opportunities to get involved on the planning committee or even help out the night of. Those interested can contact our Nursery School Board Presidents Andrea Fleishaker and Kara Kalman, or Nursery School Director, Ronnie Becher. Casino Night has been a wonderful way to get involved and help the Nursery School and have fun with other parents too. I have truly cherished my experience on the committee.

The Bulletin May 2023

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Shoresh Halev Center for Jewish Music at Beth El Dear Friends, As we go to press for this Bulletin we are preparing for our special musical Yom Ha’atzmaut Israel Independence Day celebration, when we’ll raise the roof with a raucous and heartfelt Hallel, led by Rabbi Schuck and Cantor Gaby and accompanied by a full band. This is quickly becoming a highlight of our annual holiday celebrations.

We were thrilled to host another Shirei Neshama event, when we invite renowned guest artists to join us around the Jewish holidays and premiere a new song inspired by the holiday, which we film and publicize. Galeet Dardashti, daughter of our own Hazan Emeritus Fareed Dardashti, performed with her band, Divahn, along with Cantor Gaby and me in a thrilling pre-Passover concert. Do you know

about the Persian scallion-hitting tradition on Passover!?

Check out the exciting video of Galeet’s new Dayenu, here: bethelnr.org/galeet.

Have you joined us on a First Friday yet? These special Friday night services are song-filled and elevated by the participation of our enthusiastic Prayer Team. Keep an eye out for the next one and don’t miss it!

If you have questions or would like to speak to me about how you can participate or support our wonderful music activities, please be in touch with me directly.

Yours truly, Jack Klebanow, Music Director Shoresh Halev Center for Jewish Music at Beth El

Sisterhood Happenings

The Bulletin May 2023

Sisterhood had the honor of hosting the first in-person Women’s Seder in many years. Over 70 women of all ages participated! Cantor Gaby and Rabbi Fisher inspired us through songs and prayers, old melodies as well as new ones.

Kudos to Erica Epstein and Shayna Klopott for curating a Haggadah, which captured the spirit of the Passover holiday from a woman’s point of view. Thanks, too, to Stephanie Lederman for her assistance throughout the Seder.

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On the evening of May 4th we honored Sisterhood past president Sandy Gruenberg. Sandy enabled Sisterhood to remain strong and connected throughout the Pandemic.

Sandy’s leadership was truly inspirational.

Marcia Assor President, Sisterhood

Israel 360 We’ve all been watching the news out of Israel with grave concern, no matter what our perspective is on the current situation. We’ve previously shared some resources to help people understand and keep abreast of developments and will continue to do so. We’re fortunate to have benefitted so much from Rabbi Schuck as he shared his learnings from the UJA mission of NY Rabbis to Israel he participated in to learn first hand what’s going on and gain a deeper understanding from multiple representatives across the political spectrum. For all of us who were present for his discussion on Shabbat, March 25th, during and after services, it was an incredibly insightful and nuanced education about the current controversy in Israel over the judicial reforms being proposed by Israel’s coalition government. And thanks to Rabbi Sitkin, our learning continued during the Scholar-in-Residence Shabbat, March 31st - April 1st, when Michael Koplow, Chief Policy Officer of the Israel Policy Forum, gave wonderful, educational, and enlightening talks on the proposed judicial reforms, Jewish peoplehood and the two state solution.

Through this all, Israel 360 has continued its efforts to bring new voices around Israel to Beth El. On February 26th, we hosted a zoom event with “Dugri” (Straight Talk) - an

Israeli/Palestinian rap duo whose provocative music videos shine a light on common stereotypes and tensions to foster mutual respect and understanding. Sameh Zakout and Uriya Rosenman shared with us their journey to this important work, how they found each other, and how they’re committed to teaching others, particularly youth, and breaking stereotypes and false perceptions to help bring about peaceful coexistence.

They were truly inspiring!

We’re excited for these other great Israel celebrations and hope you’ll join us!

On Tuesday, May 30th at 7:30pm, Israel 360 Presents: Eric Mandel, Director of the Middle East Political Information Network, Senior Security Editor of The Jerusalem Post, and Stand With Us Board Member, who will speak about current developments in Israel and the broader Middle East.

May 21st – Israel @ 75 Westchester Community Wide Yom Ha’atzmaut Celebration L’Hitraot, Susan Solow-Dubin and Mark Seidenfeld Co-Chairs

The Bulletin May 2023

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Update from our Security Committee Did you know that the slogan, “if you see something, say something” is now over 20 years old and was initially developed and trademarked by the MTA after the September 11 attacks? Since then, it has been formally adopted by the Department of Homeland Security and is used by many states across the country. At the risk of overstating the obvious, the concept is a reminder that every one of us plays a critical role in keeping our community safe. We encourage all of our constituents to report any activity or persons that may seem out of place at Beth El. Our staff, clergy, and Security teams know our procedures and will address them as needed. We will continue to hold forums where we can educate members who want greater familiarity with these procedures because preparation is another key element of maintaining the sanctity of Beth El. We appreciate the engagement of our leaders and members who have participated in the past.

While we continue to remain vigilant with our security programming and refinements, we have allocated the rest of the column this month to the Medical Response volunteers.

Please note that we are always looking for additional contributors to join this committee as our ability to respond to medical emergencies can save lives. The chance of surviving a sudden cardiac arrest more than doubles when CPR is started early.

Thanks to Anne Reis, Jeff Mittleman, and Marilyn Russell who conducted a building review in March where they reviewed the location and contents of our 4 first aid bags that are distributed throughout the building. In addition, the AED located in the main lobby, outside the main office, was examined and confirmed to be up to date.

The AED talks through each step of use so prior knowledge is not necessary. With each passing minute, the chances of survival decrease. A couple of minutes could be the difference between life and death.

We encourage all of our members to familiarize themselves with the locations of these tools. We also strongly encourage our members to obtain basic lifesaving training in CPR when possible.

Please contact Anne Reis if you are interested in supporting this committee--no medical experience necessary, instead we’re looking for people who can contribute to ensuring we maintain equipment, communicate to other members about equipment, and continue to develop ideas for improvement.

Thanks to everyone for your continued support.

Michael Dorfman Security Committee Chair

The Bulletin May 2023

Mental Health Initiatives at Beth El In light of May being Mental Health Awareness Month we are taking the opportunity to introduce ourselves. We are the new co-chairs of the Beth El Synagogue Mental Health Initiative. We are excited to create a culture where congregants view Beth El and the Beth El community as a valuable resource and partner to enhance this part of the lives of their families.

Mental Health is a priority of our clergy and leadership.

Rabbi Schuck introduced this initiative during high holiday services a few years back. The first leaders of this initiative did a wonderful job bringing programming and other efforts to the congregation. As the new lay leaders of the MHI we are reaching out to the congregation to assess our fellow congregants needs and interests, so we can consider programs and initiatives that are current and meaningful to our community. We are working to create a survey which you will be receiving in the near future and we would greatly appreciate your thoughtful input.

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Mental health covers a wide range of areas. As a brand new team, we offered a zoom program in the fall around the high holidays that discussed the idea of forgiveness and taught a method of asking for forgiveness of others to enhance our relationships as we prepared ourselves for Yom Kippur. There are many other areas we’re considering to focus on to improve our knowledge, skills and resources to create understanding and awareness for our community so we can grow and also learn to support each other.

There are many ways we can each benefit from Beth El partnering with us to enhance our mental wellbeing. If you have an interest in volunteering to help with this initiative, please feel free to reach out to us.

Talya Cohen – talyaacohen@gmail.com Elissa Glickman- eglickmanlmft@gmail.com Ann Zisser- annzisser@gmail.com

Child Safety outside of USY-controlled venues or official USY programs.

This is important for us to keep in mind, because it touches on the complexity of addressing child safety within our community, since our community extends far beyond the walls of Beth El’s or programs we facilitate. This is something we are keeping in mind as we hone our child safety policy for Beth El in partnership with Sacred Spaces.

According to the investigation, reports of misconduct were addressed by USCJ/USY promptly and appropriately, which is also an approach that we are committed to at Beth El. Our hope in sharing this summary is to serve as a reminder to our community that ensuring our children’s safety and wellbeing is a priority for Beth El and that we are committed to learning from every avenue. Again, the clergy are available to process the contents of this article or any other concerns that engaging with topics around abuse, harassment, and maltreatment raises.

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The Bulletin May 2023

For the past two years, members of the Beth El clergy, staff, and lay leadership have been working with Sacred Spaces to develop policies, implement trainings, and improve our culture to prevent child maltreatment at Beth El. As part of these efforts we have regularly communicated about our progress in the bulletin. For this issue of the bulletin, we are sharing a summary of a recent report released by the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism and United Synagogue Youth (USCJ and USY) about an investigation on abuse and misconduct in USY. We are sharing this summary with the community as an example of important due-diligence by a youth-serving organization that has long had deep ties at Beth El. Our hope is to learn from the findings in this report, as well as to shed light on the history they uncover. As always, the clergy are available to talk if the content of this summary raises points of pain or concern for anyone in our broader community.

In August of 2021, USCJ engaged an outside firm, Sarah E. Worley Conflict Resolution, P.C., to conduct a comprehensive investigation related to allegations of adult-on-teen abuse and sexual misconduct within USY. The investigation covered USY’s entire history and all regions and programs through over 100 interviews and thousands of documents.

Twenty-two people came forward in this process, identifying themselves as victims and/or survivors of such misconduct in USY contexts, plus 18 additional people who were identified but did not participate in the investigation. Reported misconduct included wrongful sexual contact, reports of grooming, reports of over sexualized culture, and other boundary crossing behaviors deeply contrary to the values of USCJ/USY. It is important to note that no adult accused of sexual misconduct within USY from any time period is currently associated with USCJ/USY, and all have been barred from USY activities, with the vast majority having separated from USCJ/USY many years ago. This includes volunteers who were not employed by USCJ/USY and have been similarly barred from USY events or activities.

Unfortunately, most of the misconduct took place in the METNY region of USY, which is Beth El’s USY region. Again, it is important to reiterate that no adult accused of sexual misconduct is currently associated with USY in any capacity and the investigation confirmed that there was no widespread or systemic abuse beyond the individuals identified.

One finding that is important to highlight for our community is that most of the misconduct occurred

The Truth about Refugee Resettlement

The Bulletin May 2023

Beth El’s Crystal Ballroom was filled with people from a variety of congregations, all there to hear the presentation from HIAS about refugee resettlement. This was the beginning for me of participating with ICNAW (Interfaith Council for New Americans - Westchester). During the past six years, I’ve met two groups of extraordinary people: the volunteers and the refugees, both of which have profoundly changed my life. The volunteers are experienced, competent and compassionate. I could easily write an entire essay about these wonderful volunteers and what it has been like working with them. Now, however, I want to share with you the truth about the refugee experience.

Growing up in central Ohio, I knew no Muslims. Of course, college broadened me and I even joined the International Club. Still, no Muslim friends.

Then the Gahfoors arrived and, like every volunteer who met them, I fell in love. Something changed for me. Remember how good it feels to participate in an act of tzedakah? This is quite a different experience, far from donating money, delivering food, setting up a dinner, seder, art project or facilitating learning. Obviously these are necessary for a Jewish community to act on its core values.

Resettlement volunteering is different. We are rewarded over and over again with kindness and affection. Of course they are grateful and regularly express it, but I’m talking about

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something more. I’m talking about the creation of a surprising international family. Some of you may have heard me say that the kids are “my practice grandchildren,” but they are not practice. They are real and I am endlessly grateful for the gift of having them in my life. Now that we have a biological grandchild, the Ghafoors have a new cousin. They continue to treat our family as theirs. (One child wanted to give me a gift -- milk-- because she knows it’s healthy. What bubbe could ask for a better grandchild?!) They call when I’m ill and delight in our happinesses. Yes, I’m surprised by my new and loving family, but even more than surprised, I’m grateful.

I want to share my experience with you because we will be welcoming new families and you might consider volunteering.

While of course you will be doing good for people whose lives have been sheer hell, you may have a deep, pleasant surprise.

You may have an addition to your family in an unexpected way.

Please contact me if you are interested in knowing more about the reality of volunteering with refugees. Contact me if you just want to hear about these wonderful families. And of course, contact me if you would like to come to our house to see the photos of the family on our fridge, taken on Mother’s Day each year.

Susan Wolman

BETH EL NEWS Mazal tov to: Arnie & Ellen Bernstein on the recent marriage of their son, Josh, to Galit Cohen; our member, Hannah Mani Abraham, on her achievement at being accepted as one of a small number of Bronfman fellows. The Bronfman Fellowship is a prestigious international program for young Jewish people to explore the rich tapestry of Jewish texts and ideas, using them to spark conversations, engage with stimulating existential questions, and achieve a deeper understanding of themselves and one another; Andrew and Jen Obus​​​​​​​on the birth of their daughter Hannah Rae Obus. Mazal tov also to big sister, Tali Obus; Rachel and Oraan Zorbaron on the birth of a new baby boy. Mazal Tov also to big sister Noa; David and Jessica Keusch on the Bar Mitzvah of their son Reece Keusch; Daniel and Susan Groner on the Auf Ruf and upcoming marriage of their daughter, Stefanie Groner, to Sam Waldorf; Stephan Loewentheil on the birth of his first grandchild, Sophie Dorit Bayefsky Loewentheil. Mazal tov also to parents, Nate Loewentheil & Michelle Bayefsky, and also to Leonora Loewentheil on the birth of her third great grandchild; Jill and Jonathan Forman on the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter, Leia Forman; Blaine Huss & Daniel Passeser on the naming of their daughter, Avery Passeser. Mazal tov also to grandparents, Patrice & Isadore Huss and Emily Sternhell & Scott Passeser; Amy & Daniel Michelson on the naming of their daughter, Lia Michelson. Mazal tov also to grandparents, Julie Kattan and Robert Kattan, and David & Ellen Michelson; Helene and Gary Liebstein on the birth of granddaughter, Maya Danielle, and to parents Lauren and Jason Singer, and big brother Corey; Lynn Chinitz and Steven Gruenstein on the birth of their granddaughter Claudia Hilda, born on February 28th. Mazal tov to parents Diana Gruenstein and Rafael Bilderici and big brother, Salvo; Barbara and Bob Cohen on the engagement of their daughter, Haley Cohen, to Jason Cohen; Lori & Steven Schwartz on the engagement of their son Joseph to Emily Gaines, daughter of Monica and Andrew Gaines; Heather and

Share your milestone events with us!

A warm Beth El mazal tov to one and all!

Condolences to: Arthur (Michele) Wolk on the passing of his sister, Debra Freund z”l; Michael (Claudia) Felberg on the loss of his mother, Betty Felberg z”l; Ruthie and Amnon Gotian on the passing of Ruthie’s mother, Dina Ginsburg z”l; Seth Leibowitz and Dori Graff on the passing of Seth’s father, Donald Leibowitz z”l; Zipporah and Henry Oksman on the passing of Zipporah’s mother, Chana Schoenberger z”l; Michael Dorfman on the loss of his brother, Jeffrey Dorfman z”l; Nina Kleiman and Leon Goldberg on the passing of Nina’s mother, Phyllis Handler z”l.

We record the losses suffered by our members and friends and extend to them our deepest sympathies.

Thank you to all our friends who sent messages and donations in memory of my sister, Vicki Cobb.

Elly Zabb

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The Bulletin May 2023

If you experience a milestone or a loss in your family, contact Zoe at zraynes@bethelnr.org or 914-235-2700, ext. 228

Ben Horowitz on the birth of their daughter, Sadie Amelia, born Thursday, April 6, 2023. Mazal tov also to big brother and sister, Jacob and Eliana and grandparents Linda and Alan Mazursky and Barbara and David Horowitz; Brenda and Ivan Corwin​​​​​​​on the birth of their son, born Friday, April 7, 2023. Mazal tov also to big sisters Zoe, Ava, and Rae and grandparents Shelley and Fred Klein and Sandy and Lee Corwin; Erica Epstein and Laura Penn, the L’Dor V’Dor Honorees at the upcoming Hadassah Bundles of Joy Dinner on April 25th; Adam and Sharon Cooper on the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter, Phoebe Cooper; Sandy Gruenberg, who is the Beth El Sisterhood Spring Gala honoree on Thursday, May 4; Barbara Horowitz, who is the Beth El Minyan Breakfast honoree on Sunday, April 28th; Julia Keltz and Zach Seiden on the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter, Hannah Seiden; Helene and Gary Liebstein on the birth of a grandson, Gavin Avery Roberts, and to parents Dana and Brian Roberts and grandparents Ivy and Norman Roberts; Alan Greenberg who is receiving a Julian Y. Bernstein Distinguished Service Award for his volunteer work at Beth El; Allison Kellman who is receiving a Julian Y. Bernstein Distinguished Service Award for her volunteer work at The Leffell School.

BETH EL GIVES

THANK YOU!

General Fund: Jason & Lauren Friedlander; Lester Zimmerman; Anonymous.

In Honor of: David Shechter on his 50th Birthday, from Rob & Lisa Patchen, and Mark & Marjorie Seidenfeld.

Abe Bartell with thanks for his tremendous kindness, from Jason & Jacqueline Friedland.

Lev Zorboron on his bris, from Amy, Lenny, Jake, Ellie and Joseph Grinberg.

Barbara Horowitz for her minyan breakfast honor, from Paul Bernstein.

For the recovery of Chava bat Avraham and Sarah, from Lisa & Perry Jacobs.

In Memory of: Florence Levine z”l, beloved mother of Richard Levine, from Lawrence & Barbara Orans, and Pearl & Tom Sullivan.

Esther Rosenberg z”l, beloved mother of Tris Berger, from Marianne & Bob Sussman, and Mark & Marjorie Seidenfeld, and Dina & David Brot, and Eric & Susan Rapps, and John Caplan & Stacey Borow, and Joseph & Barbara Wygoda, and Barbara & Bob Cohen, and Bonnie & Donniel Schulman.

In loving memory of Helene’s mother Julia Lefkowitz, and Howard’s mother Gail Goldstein-Kenvin, upon their yahrzeits, from Helene & Howard Goldstein.

In loving memory of Helene’s father, Nathan Lefkowiz and her brother, David Lefkowitz, upon their yahrzeits, from Helene and Howard Goldstein.

Donald Leibowitz z”l, beloved father of Seth Leibowitz, from the Ladies Book Club Long Island, and the Dream Theater family.

Dorothy Klingsberg z”l and Samuel S. Klingsberg z”l on the occasion of their Yahrzeits, from David Klingsberg.

The Bulletin May 2023

Baumwald Prayer Book Fund In Memory of: Esther Rosenberg z”l, mother of Trisanne Berger, from Barbara & Rob Ehudin.

The Robert Matthew Klein Fund for Inclusion and Special Needs In Honor of: Erica Epstein on her special birthday, from Leslie & Craig Glickstein.

Carrie Fox and David Shechter’s receipt of the President’s Ne’emanim award, from Alan & Elizabeth Legatt.

In Memory of: Esther Rosenberg z”l, beloved mother of Tris Berger, from Lori & Steve Schwartz.

Florence Levine z”l, beloved mother of Richard Levine,

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from Lori & Steve Schwartz.

Morris Ordover z”l, father of Lori Schwartz, on his yahrzeit, from Lori & Steve Schwartz.

Cyril Wick z”l, from Loretta Wick Holland and Arthur Holland.

Jack Yadgaroff z”l, from Loretta Wick Holland and Arthur Holland.

Yvette & Herman Gordon Century Fund for Adult Teaching & Learning Yvette Gordon.

In Memory of: William Hirsch z”l, from Yvette Gordon.

Michael Hirsch z”l, from Yvette Gordon.

Endowment Fund In Memory of: Esther Rosenberg z”l, beloved mother of Tris Berger, from Marc & Barbara Klee.

Shoresh Halev Music Fund In Honor of: David Shechter’s 50th birthday, from Laura Lewis.

Laura Lewis on her birthday, from Nora Klion Wolloch.

Rochelle Chaiken on her birthday, from Nora Klion Wolloch.

In Memory of: Donald Leibowitz z”l, beloved father of Seth Leibowitz, from Jake Solomon.

Jeremy Scheinfeld Memorial Fund In Honor of: Pearl Sullivan on her special birthday, from Gwen & Gary Salmo.

Erica Epstein on her special birthday, from Gwen & Gary Salmo.

The engagement of Haley Cohen, daughter of Bob & Barbara Cohen, to Jason Cohen, from Geralynn & David Reifer.

In Memory of: Esther Rosenberg z”l, beloved mother of Tris Berger, from Geralynn & David Reifer, and Laura Lewis.

Florence Levine z”l, beloved mother of Richard Levine, from Geralynn & David Reifer.

Dorothy Fleishaker Religious School Enrichment Fund In Memory of: Jerry Coe z”l, from Donald Fleishaker.

In Honor of: Ayelet’s Gan teacher, Emily Herzfeld, from Dana & Avi Stein.

The Andrew Shapiro Memorial Fund In Honor of: Vicki Fisher’s special birthday, from Judy Shapiro.

In Memory of: Barbara Fozdar z”l, sister of Leslie Ruttenberg, from Judy Shapiro.

Sa’adya Aqua z”l, beloved father of Cantor Uri Aqua, from Judy Shapiro.

My parents, Beatrice & Walter Prince z”l on their yahrzeits, from Judy Shapiro.

My cousins, Edward Shapiro z”l and Andrew Shapiro z”l, from Richard A. Brown.

Men’s Club In Memory of: Walter Klee z”l, beloved father of Marc Klee, from Marc & Barbara Klee

Cantor’s Discretionary Fund Jeff & Susan Mittleman in honor of the Bar Mitzvah of Reece Keusch; Elly and Teddy Zabb donated a siddur to Beth El in memory of parents Rivka and Chuck Raffel.

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The Bulletin May 2023

Yahrzeit Donations Cindy & Stan Arkow; Jane & Steven Berkowitz; Phyllis & Jerome Brown; Jody & Daniel Burton; Rachel & Barry Charles; Rita Cohen; Sheila Cohen; Judy & Doug Conrad; Irwin & Ilene Davison; Carol Diament; Jacqueline & Avi Einzig; Ruth Esses; Joan S. Faier; Ray Fein; Barbara & Allen Feinberg; Claudia Felberg & Debora Finefeld; Dalia Fenster; Vicki Fisher; Beatrice Freedman; Pamela Friedman & Robert Preminger; Lawrence Getzler; Rita Gilbert; Bari Goldstein; Susan Goldstein & Family; Malcolm Graff; Debra Greenberg; Roberta Greenberg; Carol Ann Gross; Sandy Gruenberg; Haber Family; Marilyn Handler; Robin &

Jeffrey Hessel; Ruth Hirsh; Arthur Holland; Florence Joffe & Family; Marcia Kahn; Geo Carl Kaplan; Steven Kessler; David & Fran Klingsberg; Danuta Kurstein; Carol Ann Leibner; Susan & Elliot Lesser; Sande Lichtenstein; Stanley & Anita Liebowitz; Michael Malina; Arkady Mamaysky; Mark & Lisa Medin; George Morris; John Morris; Alicia Popper & Family; Leon & Barbara Protass; Joel Resnick; Elise Richman; Meri Jane Rochelson & Joel Mintz; Sharon & George Rozansky; Evelyn & Barry Salter; Lloyd Sherman; Joyce Silver; Ruth & Marc Sininsky; Leslie Fishman Snyder; Shirin & Steven Stein; Steven & Rachelle Stern; Harold Sussman; Mark & Eleanor Walfish; Bruce Wenig; Helene Wolloch; Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund Nora Klion Wolloch; Judith Feuerstein in memory of Esther Zarembski z”l; Judith Feuerstein in memory of Leo Treiber z”l, beloved father of Eric Treiber; Robyn & Dani Yairi in honor of Avi Yairi’s Bar Mitzvah; Robert Kohn in memory of Esther Rosenberg z”l, beloved mother of Tris Berger; Erica & Larry Epstein in memory of Esther Rosenberg z”l, beloved mother of Tris Berger; Sylvia Texon Rogers in memory of her mother, Ami Texon z”l on her yahrzeit; Jeffrey Graf in memory of the Yahrzeit of Rudolf Graf, my beloved Father; Meryl & David Mendelson in memory of Leo Treiber z”l, beloved father of Eric Treiber, Lori & Steve Schwartz in memory of the yahrzeit of Howard Schwartz, father of Steve Schwartz; Lori & Steve Schwartz in memory of the yahrzeit of Alice Schwartz, mother of Steve Schwartz; Florence Taubenfeld in memory of Debra Freund z”l, sister of Arthur Wolk; Bruce & Karen Fischer in memory of Florence Levine z”l, beloved mother of Richard Levine; Joyce & Michael Wechsler in memory of Rosalind Wechsler z”l, beloved mother of Michael Wechsler; Barbara & Jay Lerman in memory of Abraham Tussman z”l & Helen Tussman z”l; Joyce Wechsler in memory of her beloved mother, Annette Chabrow z”l; M. Jack Renick; Juan Caldes in honor of the Beth El clergy, Sandy & Jack Gruenberg and Dr Thomas Rechtschaffen MD; Merill & Ellen Resnick for the continued good health of Caryl Fuch’s grandson, Sid; Barbara Lerman on the Yahrzeit of my father Abraham Tussman; Jeffrey Graf on the Yahrzeit of my Grandmother Sally Knisbacher z’l; Barbara Finder in honor of Alan Greenberg for his Jewish council award; Eric & Laurie Roth in memory of Dr Steven Winik z”l on his yahrzeit; The Joffe Family in memory of Herbert Joffe z”l on his 3rd yahrzeit; Sima Littman in memory of Betty Trachtman z”l and George Oscar Lee z”l; David & Terri Simon & family in memory of Dr. Allen H. Simon z”l on his yahrzeit;

THANK YOU!

The Sylvia & Robert Scher Chesed Community Fund In Memory of: Florence Levine z”l, beloved mother of Richard Levine, from Susan & Jeff Mittleman.

Vicki Cobb z”l, beloved sister to Elly Zabb, from Laura Lewis.

Beth Levine z”l, from Eli Terry.

Day Camp Fund In Honor of: The birth of a son to Oraan and Rachel Zorbaron, from Aaron & Rebecca Levy.

Vicki Karpel Fisher, Here’s to creating childhood memories.

Loved lunch in NYC. To friendship always, Love, Andi Person Bloch.

Youth Activities Fund In Honor of: Barbara & Joe Wygoda on the Bat Mitzvah of their granddaughter, Alice Bohrer, from Susan & Elliot Lesser.

In Memory of: Esther Rosenberg z”l, beloved mother of Tris Berger, from Harvey Heir.

Jack Kaplan z”l, from Mitchel Kaplan.

Sisterhood Donations

The Bulletin May 2023

THANK YOU!

In honor of: Bernie Katz, on the recent births of two more great grandsons from Sandy & Jack Gruenberg Robyn & Danny Yairi, on the bar mitzvah of your son, Ari from Sandy & Jack Gruenberg Lauren Berger & Jay Rehr, on the birth of your granddaughter, Olivia Rehr from Sandy & Jack Gruenberg Sharon & Aaron Fleishaker, on the birth of two new grandchildren Sandy & Jack Gruenberg Ellen & Jack Hollander, on the bar mitzvah of your grandson, Gil Weinsier from Sandy & Jack Gruenberg David Shechter, mazal tov on your 50th birthday from Sandy & Jack Gruenberg Ruth King, mazal tov on your 100st birthday from Marianne & Bob Sussman The Sisterhood’s Shivah Dinner Fund from Barbara & Jay Lerman Matt & Stephanie Klingsberg, on your son, Emmett’s bar mitzvah from Joyce & Michael Wechsler Pearl Sullivan, on your special birthday mazal tov from Elise & Bob Schepp, Janis Demartini, Nora Klion-Wolloch Janis Demartini, on your special birthday mazal tov from Elise & Bob Schepp, Nora Klion-Wolloch

To donate to the Sisterhood Mitzvah Fund Please send donations to: Sisterhood Mitzvah Fund: Gaby Newfield, 87 Runyon Place, Scarsdale, NY 10583 P: 914-235-4030 E: gabyn77@yahoo.com

Kiddush Sponsors

The Kiddush of March 25th was sponsored by Jill and Jonathan Forman in honor of their daughter, Leia Forman’s bat mitzvah, and also by Patrice and Isadore Huss in honor of the baby naming of their granddaughter, Avery Claire Passeser, and also by Robert Kattan, and Julie Kattan and Milton Kreppel, in honor of the baby naming of their granddaughter Lia Emily Michelson.

The Kiddush of April 1st was sponsored by Salo Aizenberg & Karine Kleinhaus to celebrate Karine’s birthday.

The Kiddush of April 29th was sponsored by Sharon and Adam Cooper in honor of the bat mitzvah of their daughter Phoebe Cooper.

The Kiddush of May 6th was sponsored by Julia Keltz and Zach Seiden in honor of the bat mitzvah of their daughter Hannah Seiden.

The Kiddush of May 13th was sponsored by Lynn and Erik Avni in honor of the bat mitzvah of their daughter Noa Esther Avni

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Erica Epstein, on your special birthday mazal tov from Elise & Bob Schepp, Janis Demartini Nora Klion-Wolloch, on your special birthday mazal tov from Elise & Bob Schepp, Janis Demartini Members of Sisterhood from Susan & Elliot Lesser In memory of: Barbara Fozdar, beloved sister of Leslie Ruttenberg from Sandy & Jack Gruenberg Esther Rosenberg, beloved mother of Tris Berger from Joyce & Michael Wechsler

The Kiddush of May 20th was sponsored by Lisa and Larry Mandelker in honor of the bar mitzvah of their son Charlie Mandelker.

The Kiddush of June 3rd is sponsored by Lisa and Robert Patchen in honor of the bat mitzvah of their daughter Ella Patchen.

The Kiddush of June 10th is sponsored by Ella and Sam Shteingart in honor of the bar mitzvah of their son Daniel Shteingart

NEW MEMBERS Welcome to the Beth El Community:

Robin & Robert Brown Beryl Chernov Barry & Sarah Josephs Courtney & Justin Weg

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&ŝƌŵ WƌŝŶĐŝƉĂů ĂŶĚ &ŽƵŶĚĞƌ ĂǀŝĚ >ĂĐŚĞƌ ŝƐ ƉƌŽƵĚ ƚŽ ďĞ Ă WĂƐƚ WƌĞƐŝĚĞŶƚ ŽĨ ĞƚŚ ů ĂŶĚ ŝƐ ƉƌŝǀŝůĞŐĞĚ ƚŽ ďĞ ƚŚĞ ĐƵƌƌĞŶƚ WƌĞƐŝĚĞŶƚ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ EĞǁ ZŽĐŚĞůůĞ Ăƌ ƐƐŽĐŝĂƚŝŽŶ

 ƐƚĂƚĞ WůĂŶŶŝŶŐ Θ ƐƚĂƚĞƐ ĚŵŝŶŝƐƚƌĂƚŝŽŶ  ZĞĂů ƐƚĂƚĞ – ZĞƐŝĚĞŶƚŝĂů Θ ŽŵŵĞƌĐŝĂů  >ĂŶĚ hƐĞ Θ ĐŽŶŽŵŝĐ ĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚ  ŽƌƉŽƌĂƚĞ Θ ŽŵŵĞƌĐŝĂů dƌĂŶƐĂĐƚŝŽŶƐ

270 North Avenue, 8th Floor New R o c h e l l e , NY 1 0 8 0 1 - 5 1 3 6 914 355 59 0 0 lacherlaw.com

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The Bulletin May 2023

plazajewish.org

Glorianne Mattesi Experience What’s Next with New Rochelle’s Best.

Wykagyl Estates | $1,100,000 | Web# H6240358

Glorianne Mattesi

Licensed Associate R.E. Broker M 914.393.6990 Glorianne.Mattesi@elliman.com

#1 Agent in New Rochelle.*

Thomas Paine Heights | $999,000 | Web# H6224306

The ultimate New Rochelle insider, Glorianne’s deep market knowledge and high-level skills will help you succeed in any market. When it’s time to make a move, it pays to work with the best.

From the North End to Downtown and

Glenwood Lake | $684,000 | Web# H6241697

South, East and West Ends, no one knows

The Bulletin May 2023

New Rochelle like Glorianne.

elliman.com

1270 North Condominiums | $584,000 | Web# H6234125

83 KATONAH AVENUE, KATONAH, NY 10536 914.232.3700 © 2023 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. *SOURCE: HGAR MLS, 2016-2021 FOR TOTAL DOLLAR VOLUME AND NUMBER OF TRANSACTIONS.

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I F YO U ’ R E T H I N K I N G O F M A K I N G A M OV E , C A L L M E TO AC H I E V E E X T R AO R D I N A RY R E S U LT S 6 4 W O O D L AW N AV E N U E NEW ROCHELLE In-Contract in 6 days Sold for $212,000 over asking

3 4 B AY B E R RY L A N E NEW ROCHELLE In-Contract in 5 days Sold for $276,000 over asking

8 5 E L I Z A B E T H R OA D NEW ROCHELLE In-Contract in 3 days Sold for $87,000 over asking

5 ALFRED L ANE NEW ROCHELLE In-Contract in 7 days Sold for $261,000 over asking

3 3 V E R D U N AV E N U E NEW ROCHELLE In-Contract in 6 days Sold for $131,000 over asking

16 L I N W O O D R OA D NEW ROCHELLE In-Contract in 7 days Sold for $251,849 over asking

58 SKY VIEW L ANE NEW ROCHELLE In-Contract in 4 days Sold for $91,000 over asking

6 7 S T R AT F O R D R OA D NEW ROCHELLE In-Contract in 8 days Sold for $132,000 over asking

3 CH A R LOT TE L A N E S C A R S DA L E In-Contract in 8 days Sold for $77,700 over asking

2 E D N A P L AC E NEW ROCHELLE In-Contract in 7 days Sold for $105,000 over asking

69 R U T L E D G E R OA D S C A R S DA L E In-Contract in 8 days Sold for $65,000 over asking

3 5 W O O D L AW N AV E N U E NEW ROCHELLE In-Contract in 8 days Sold for $86,000 over asking

70 B R OA DV I E W AV E N U E NEW ROCHELLE In-Contract in 11 days Sold for $126,000 over asking

7 8 S T R AT F O R D R OA D NEW ROCHELLE In-Contract in 7 days Sold for $86,000 over asking

8 M AY W O O D R OA D NEW ROCHELLE In-Contract in 6 days Sold for $176,000 over asking

15 T R E VO N P L AC E NEW ROCHELLE In-Contract in 7 days Sold for $101,000 over asking

19 W O O D L AW N AV E N U E NEW ROCHELLE In-Contract in 9 days Sold for $118,500 over asking

76 A B E R F OY L E R OA D NEW ROCHELLE In-Contract in 10 days Selling for $100,000 over asking

5 3 4 F O R E S T AV E N U E NEW ROCHELLE In-Contract in 4 days Sold for $316,000 over asking

1 H AW T H O R N E WAY H A R T S DA L E In-Contract in 2 days Selling for $205,000 over asking

#1 Agent in the #1 Brokerage in New Rochelle | 11 years in a row Ranked in the top 1% in Westchester Ranked in the top 1.5% in the U.S. J O C E LY N H A L L B U R T O N Real Estate Salesperson

M 917.693.3557 jburton@houlihanlawrence.com jocelynburton.houlihanlawrence.com facebook.com/JocelynHallBurtonRealEstate Proud Beth El Member

Source: OKMLS, 2012-2022, total dollar volume of single family homes sold by Houlihan Lawrence agent, New Rochelle school district.

Jocelyn ranks in the Top 1% in Westchester County by single family homes sold, total dollar volume, 2022. Top 1.5% in the US by Real Trends, America’s Best.

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The Bulletin May 2023

N E W RO C H EL L E B RO K ER AG E • 15 Q UA K ER R I D G E ROA D • N E W RO C H EL L E, N Y 1080 4

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE CENTER 1324 NORTH AVENUE NEW ROCHELLE, NY 10804-2190

Non Profit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID White Plains, N.Y. Permit No. 925

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

SHERY ROSENSTEIN Licensed Real Estate Sales Person SHERY ROSENSTEIN

Licensed Estate Sales Personwith Helping theReal Beth El community their home selling needs Helping the buying Beth Eland community with for over 10 years. their home buying and selling needs for over 10 years.

914.420.8556 s.rosenstein@yahoo.com 914.420.8556 sheryrosenstein@gmail.com

Wishing is filled May that your your homehome be filled withwith blessings, and joy. joy. blessings, light, light, happiness happiness and

‫מאחלת לכם‬ ‫שביתכם יהיה מל‬ ,‫ באור‬,‫בברכה‬ ‫ ובשמחה‬,‫באושר‬ JOCELYN BURTON JOCELYN BURTON Real Estate Salesperson The Bulletin May 2023

Real Estate Salesperson

M 917.693.3557 M 917.693.3557 JBurton@houlihanlawrence.com JBurton@houlihanlawrence.com Proud Beth El member

Ranked in the Top 1% of

#1 Agent in the #1 Brokerage All Agents in Westchester MLS in New Rochelle | 11 years in a row

# 1 Agentin inthe thetop 1% in Westchester Ranked

1 Brokerage New Rochelle Ranked in theintop 1.5% in the U.S. #

Proud Beth El Member

NEW ROC HELLE BROK ERAGE | 15 QUAKE R RIDGE ROAD NEW ROC HELLE BROK ERAGE | 15 QUAKE R RIDGE ROAD

Source: OKMLS, 2020, total dollar volume of single family homes sold by Houlihan Lawrence agent, New Rochelle school district. One Key MLS, 2020, properties listed by agent that sold in 2020 in the City of New Rochelle compared to all properties sold in City of New Rochelle. Jocelyn ranks in the Top 1% in Westchester County by single family homes sold, total dollar volume, 2020.

Source: OKMLS, 2012-2022, total dollar volume of single family homes sold by Houlihan Lawrence agent, New Rochelle school district.

Jocelyn ranks in the Top 1% in Westchester County by single family homes sold, total dollar volume, 2022. Top 1.5% in the US by Real Trends, America’s Best.

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