Dear Friends,
Rabbi’s Message
I’ll be honest: being celebrated at a gala and being the center of attention makes me a bit uncomfortable. That might surprise some people—I do speak and teach in front of you often—but in those moments, I am not the focus. I am trying to amplify something much more significant than me. Whether I’m speaking on Shabbat, at a shiva house, or under a chuppah, my role is to lift up something beyond myself: God’s Torah, a person’s life-story, the beauty of a couple taking their first steps into a new beginning.
So the idea of being celebrated for ten years of serving this community feels a little unfamiliar.
And yet…
I am also full of gratitude. These last ten years have been more meaningful than I could have imagined. What we’ve built together is something worth celebrating. And I believe it’s important to pause and do just that.
Over the past decade, we have created something rare and beautiful: a synagogue that sings. Music has become not just an accompaniment to prayer, but a doorway into it. We established Shoresh HaLev, a center for Jewish music whose reach now extends far beyond our walls.
We’ve deepened our spiritual lives—not through shortcuts, but by cultivating practices that nourish the soul. I’ve had the privilege of kashering homes, sitting with people in the hospital, and studying Torah with women who were denied access to Jewish learning when they were young. We’ve invested in our daily minyan, the beating heart of our community—a conversation that stretches across generations. We’ve created spaces for silence and reflection.
We’ve taken Torah study seriously, not merely as intellectual engagement, but as a way to stretch our minds and open our hearts to God’s claims on us. We’ve strengthened our relationship with Israel and deepened our Zionist commitments. Our Beth El volunteer mission to Israel, just three months after the massacre of October 7, is a testament to that shared devotion.
During COVID, we insisted that our spiritual lives deserved care even as we protected our physical well-being. We built systems of support—not just for one another, but for the broader community. I will never forget the billboard on
North Avenue with our hotline number, offering help to anyone who needed it. It captured who we are: a synagogue rooted in Torah that reaches outward to the broader community with compassion. I’m deeply proud of how many of you stepped forward to care for strangers during those difficult days.
And we’ve made a true home for our children—not just a place where they’re welcome, but a place where they belong. When I hear the sound of children running through our halls and into the sanctuary, I’m filled with hope. Every Shabbat, when I see the bimah full of kids at the end of services—kids who see this shul as their second home—I’m inspired.
This upcoming gala is not a celebration of one rabbi. And I don’t say that simply to deflect attention. It’s the truth. This is a celebration of us—of what we’ve dared to imagine, even through some of the hardest times, and what, through love and effort, we’ve brought into being.
Rabbi Sirner devoted more than forty years to building this vibrant community, and I have been privileged to serve in his footsteps. Any successes we celebrate on June 12 were shaped by his vision and his decades of dedication.
Doing this sacred work alongside Rabbis Sitkin and Bedo, Cantor Gaby, Jack, Liz, and the entire BESC team makes me one of the luckiest rabbis I know. I’ve learned so much from the extraordinary lay leaders with whom I’ve worked—Sam Berger, Mark Seidenfeld, Mark Silver, Rob Patchen, Lauren Freeman Bosworth—each of them a true partner in this sacred work.
And of course, my most important partner, Tali, has met the pressures of the pulpit with grace, strength, and love. She deserves more thanks than I could ever express.
I hope you’ll join us—not only to celebrate these past ten years, but to invest in the years ahead. Because I believe, with all my heart, that the best is still to come.
With love and gratitude,
Rabbi David A. Schuck
President’s Message
In 2014, I had the privilege of serving as a member of the search committee that brought Rabbi Schuck to Beth El. That committee spent time wondering about the impact of new rabbinic leadership on our beloved shul, worrying that membership would decline when a new rabbi began, and hoping and imagining all that Rabbi Schuck could bring to Beth El. I wish that anxious search committee knew then that a decade later we would be celebrating a decade of Rabbi Schuck’s leadership at Beth El, using our annual gala to show our gratitude and to reflect on how the Rabbi’s vision for Beth El has impacted each of us.
I cannot wait to celebrate all of this on June 12. Beth El is a vibrant and innovative community. Under Rabbi Schuck’s leadership, it is a place for harmonies that can stir the soul or leave one humming all day long, beautiful teachings about Torah, tots scrambling around the bimah, and joyful Judaism where everyone is encouraged to find what resonates for them.
Rabbi Schuck and his vision have inspired and influenced each of us in different ways. When I asked the officers of Beth El to share their own thoughts, they spoke of infusing music, spirituality, torah study, teachings, and Israel.
David Schechter (EVP) commented: Rabbi Schuck has profoundly influenced me - and our community – by encouraging us to explore the depths of text, spirituality, and personal emotion. He has helped us cultivate a deeply rooted and enduring Jewish practice. Together with our Beth El family, I am so grateful to celebrate his love of prayer, music, and the poetry of Torah.
Lori Schwartz (VP) noted: I have come to appreciate and look forward to the classes Rabbi Schuck teaches. I was never interested before but his knowledge and enthusiasm show through in every subject. I especially enjoy the classes that take place in our homes where we can learn from him in an intimate and small setting. I have learned so much and hope to continue further learning in the future.
His sense of humor and manner of telling jokes is notable as he always smiles before the joke, anticipates the congregation’s reaction and lets us know if we reacted the way he expected we would.
Beth El’s Treasurer, David Reifer, stated: “I personally feel very fortunate to have Rabbi Schuck as the spiritual leader of our community. As Beth El’s Treasurer, I am grateful to be the beneficiary of his incredible leadership and vision, the driving force behind the success of our synagogue.
Marci Marcus (Recording Secretary) described Rabbi Schuck’s impact on families with young children: Rabbi Schuck helped transform our synagogue by using his vision to create children centered celebrations for Simchat Torah and Purim. This has allowed young families to feel more a part of our community.
And, Shayna Klopott (VP), concluded: I appreciate the infectious passion that Rabbi Schuck brings to everything he does. Whether he’s teaching a class, leading the congregation in prayer, talking to the preschoolers on the bimah, or discussing the running of the shul, his joy and humor are palpable. After learning about the importance of breath from him, I find that even the thing I thought was impossible to learn, to clear one’s mind, is do-able and, as promised, very calming.
(I will freely admit that the following is a plug for the Gala Journal). Our community cannot wait to read in the journal how Rabbi Shuck’s vision and leadership has affected you, the members of our community, and how strong, vibrant, and incredible our community is today under that leadership.
Lauren Freeman-Bosworth President
Susan Groner (Financial Secretary) focused on Israel: I appreciate the way Rabbi Schuck shares his love of Israel by telling stories and opening up his heart to us.
On behalf of the synagogue, we deeply appreciate your participation in our milestone celebration of Beth El’s gratitude for our ten years together with Rabbi David Schuck. Thank you for investing in the future of our sacred community and the countless ways Rabbi Schuck inspires us toward rich and meaningful engagement with profound expressions of Jewish life and learning.
Jodi and Rob Scheinfeld Gala Committee Co-Chairs
Shoresh Halev
Center for Jewish Music at Beth El
What a whirlwind spring it has already been!
We staged two fabulous “Shul Shenanigans 2” shows. With a cast of 23, a 6 person tech crew, and a 5-piece pit band, and almost all congregants in attendance, this was a big community production and we rocked the house! The show, written by our own Howard Rosenstein, is super witty, super funny, full of pathos and overflowing with love of all things Beth El. Now that we’ve created and done two of these Shul Shenanigans productions, we’re exploring opportunities to license the shows to other synagogues around the country. We really believe Shul-goers everywhere can join in the fun! Stay tuned for the release of the full length video, especially if you missed the performances, due out just as you are reading this.
In other news, we are working on prototyping our first Shoresh Halev online community, “The Listening Room.” This will be an interactive gathering space on our website with opportunities to share our favorite music, learn prayers, study Torah, and more. If you are interested in helping us shape this virtual community, please be in touch with me directly.
As we are now building out the Shoresh Halev team and organization to include members of the community in advisory and leadership positions, please reach out to me if you are interested in participating in a leadership role. As always, I welcome your input and support.
Jack Klebanow Shoresh Halev Center for Jewish Music at Beth El
Shavuot
Beth El and the World
Community Support of a Refugee Family
This Passover, as we commemorated the Israelites exodus from Egypt and reflected on the plight of refugees, Beth El members committed to supporting a refugee family from Afghanistan who arrived in New York on April 3rd. The family entered the country legally on a Special Immigrant Visa, a program created by America to help Afghan nationals who assisted the U.S. government in Afghanistan. A synagogue contingent, being coordinated by Evelyn and Blair Selber, is helping this newly arrived family of five.
HIAS, the global Jewish humanitarian NGO, is providing guidance and support. In addition, Beth El has partnered with Westchester Reform Temple to help this family, sharing the financial and volunteer commitment between the two congregations. Our commitment to help this family is for 90 days, during which time they will be provided with tools and resources to head towards self-sufficiency.
Thanks to a sponsor grant provided by the Community Sponsorship Hub, the family is currently settled in an Airbnb. They are safe, comfortable, and eager to start a new chapter after several challenging years.
The group needs volunteers to ensure the family’s smooth transition. The family needs assistance in areas including language, transportation, and employment. We will be furnishing their apartment and will also need help moving them in.
Y&F’s Director Alyssa Berman among Five Innovative Educators Winning Robert M. Sherman Young Pioneers Award
The Jewish Education Project, an organization dedicated to inspiring and empowering educators to create transformative Jewish experiences, announced the five recipients of the 2025 Robert M. Sherman Young Pioneers Award. Named for the former CEO Robert M. Sherman and launched in 2012, this award has recognized over 60 exceptional Jewish educators from greater New York that advance and innovate Jewish education. Recipients work in day schools, camps, youth groups, supplementary schools, community centers, seminaries and in foundation settings.
“Jewish educators play such an integral part in their learners’ lives, especially amid the myriad challenges young Jews face today,” added David Bryfman, CEO of The Jewish Education Project. “They teach, provide support, and offer guidance.
The following opportunities are ways you can provide immediate assistance:
If you would like to provide a gently used or new item for the family’s new home, please provide your information here. We will be happy to pick up your items.
To sign up to tutor them in English, please provide your information here.
Rides are needed to take the family to English lessons and back three times a week. Classes are 10:00am-12:00pm, and sign-up is here.
We celebrate these talented and committed award recipients and are grateful for all they do to positively influence our communities, families, and students.”
The award recipients will each receive a professional development stipend and will be honored at The Jewish Education Project’s annual Spring Event, Wednesday, May 21st.
Alyssa previously worked at Sutton Place Synagogue and Fort Tryon Jewish Center, taught religious school around the tri-state area, and was a staff member at Camp Ramah Nyack and Camp Modin. Alyssa has regularly participated in professional development sessions and networks through The Jewish Education Project, including Innovators, Youth Roundtable and Leadership networks. Additionally, Alyssa has received three microgrants, focusing on mindfulness, racial justice, and Jewish diversity through food. Kol Hakavod!
Israel 360 | Staying Connected with our Israeli Family
It’s been a busy winter and we’ve been fortunate to be able to bring many impactful and engaging programs to Beth El. In December, Yardena Schwartz, award winning journalist and author of Ghosts of a Holy War- The 1929 Massacre in Palestine That Ignited the Arab-Israeli Conflict, shared her deep insights, based on extensive research and her personal experience concerning Israel, about the historical roots of the conflict that extend through October 7th and today.
In January, as part of the Melavah Malka, we held a “Havdalah for the Hostages,” weaving music and poetry into a special Havdalah dedicated to the hostages that remain in Gaza. And in April, we co-sponsored with Temple Israel of New Rochelle a screening of “Torn: The Israel-Palestine War on NYC Streets,” a film that explored how the “Kidnapped” poster campaign designed to raise awareness about the Israeli hostages taken on October 7th, quickly sparked intense clashes of ideology and hatred on New York City streets. Pictured above, the film’s creator,
Nim Shapira, and special guest, Julia Simon, a student featured in the film, joined us for an enlightening Q&A afterwards. Julia’s special connection to Beth El made it an even more moving and personal experience for us. Julia is friends with many youth in our community from their days in USY, all of whom share a bond with Omer Neutra, z”l, a fellow USY’er and friend who made Aliyah, joined the IDF and was tragically murdered on October 7th.
Building on this year’s efforts to build Ahavat Yisrael and foster dialogue around the varied perspectives on the many issues related to Israel, we’re excited to host a panel on Thursday, May 29th at 7:30pm, bringing the Shinshinim, the Israeli youth ambassadors working with synagogues and schools throughout Westchester, together with our own teens to share their respective perspectives and relationships with America and Israel. Please save the date for what will surely be an evening of learning and pride.
And of course, May is an important month of celebration and commemoration for Israel, so please mark your calendars and join our community for the May 29th Israel 360 event. We’re already working on plans for our next year of programming, so let us know of any suggestions you may have. We continue to pray for the release of all the hostages, the safe return of all IDF soldiers to their families’ embrace and peace for all of Israel.
Tamar Tait & Mark Seidenfeld
Israel 360 Committee
#BringThemHomeNow WE WON’T STOP UNTIL THEY’RE ALL BACK
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 Beth El’s Director of Programming Stephanie Lederman at slederman@bethelnr.org
American & Israeli Teens in Conversation Thurday, May 29th at 7:30pm
Beth El Den
Join a panel of American teens and Israeli Shinshinim (Teen Ambassadors) in a moderated dialogue, where they will share their perspectives and experiences in Israel, their Jewish identity, and their relationships with Israeli and American Jewry.
Shirah B’tsibur (communal sing-a-long) led by our Shinshinim will kick things off, followed by the moderated panel, creating a special evening bringing our community together through music and conversation.
Register at bethelnr.org/israeli-american-teens
pride shabbat
@ Beth El
Save the Date
June 7, 2025 at 9:00am
Our guest will be Eliana Rubin of Keshet, who will present the Dvar Torah during services and a program after kiddush.
If you would like to have an aliyah or participate in the service in another way, please contact Elise Richman at elisekrichman@gmail.com
Keruv | Accessibility & Inclusion @ Beth El
No one is perfect, and that’s okay. I learned that a long time ago. When I determined that my daughter had several learning disabilities, I became her personal advocate and used her deficits as an opportunity to learn and grow for both of us. I attended many, varied unusual school conferences with teachers, some who did not understand anything about learning styles and gave her little to no support. I was also told that I was hostile because I refused to take no for an answer at Special Education meetings.
It was only natural for me to join Beth El’s amazing Keruv Committee. In every Keruv article and event announcement we ask members to “speak up” about their needs so that we can hopefully accommodate them. Special needs can mean many different things, whether it is with a wheelchair, a hearing device or a Large Print prayer book. Few people feel comfortable speaking up.
Now allow me to tell you about ME. In 2023, I was determined to be profoundly deaf. I had surgery and can hear once again, but only through the “wonder” of a Cochlear Implant. I have 40 electrodes inside my head which transmit digital sounds to the Cochlear sound processor that is attached to the outside of my head with a magnet and an earpiece. I do “hear”, but unlike the average person, who hears acoustically, my sound is digital/electronic. It was almost like learning a new language, with my brain learning to interpret new sounds. This required many hours of dedicated practice sessions.
That brings me to Shul Shenanigans 2. Last year, my Cochlear hadn’t learned enough to be able to “hear” music. I was more than disappointed, unable to be in the show, or be in the audience to “hear” the music and understand the lyrics. This year, I was determined to attend at least one performance.
I chose to embrace my imperfection. I “spoke up” by emailing our renowned member Howard Rosenstein [most talented writer, director, producer] and requested permission to attend the dress rehearsal. He responded enthusiastically! I attended the dress rehearsal and sat next to Brian Bosworth, the show’s teleprompter engineer, so I was able to read the lyrics along with the show. It was the best entertainment experience I have had since my Cochlear was activated.
The lesson here is that if you don’t ask, you don’t get. Keep in mind that self-advocacy is a process, and sometimes it takes time to develop this skill.
Having a supportive network of friends, family, or colleagues can help you navigate challenging situations and advocate for yourself. Our Keruv committee is here to help, but we can only help address needs if we know about them.
Do you have any special needs such as wheelchair seating? Please let us know! Please email info@bethelnr.org or call our main office.
Carole Graham Keruv Committee
Continuing Our Commitment to Protecting Children at Beth El
Last year, we announced the implementation of Safeguarding Our Children: A Child Protection Policy for Beth El Synagogue Center This policy represents our community’s shared commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and nurturing environment for all children who participate in our synagogue’s programs. Over the past year, we have continued to build on this foundation with concrete steps that bring the policy to life in meaningful ways.
Policy in Action
Since its adoption, the policy has been introduced to all camp, religious school, and nursery school families. This communication ensures that our entire community—not just our staff and volunteers—is aware of the guidelines and expectations that keep our children safe. Most recently, Rabbi Schuck’s April 18th sermon reinforced this message calling on all congregants to create a safe environment for our children.
All staff members are required to read the policy as part of their mandated annual training and all staff, including teachers and camp counselors, receive in person training to further their understanding of the policy and best practices regarding protecting our children.
A Child Safety Committee made up of Naomi Adler (Psychologist), Marjorie Seidenfeld (Pediatrician), Rabbi Schuck and Elizabeth Clain (Beth El Executive Director) has been meeting regularly to support implementation of the policy and review best practices. Most recently, Naomi and Marjorie led a professional development session with staff to review the policy and discuss “real world” scenarios that can be complex or confusing. The staff meeting was lively and people were engaged by the material. We discussed various situations that we encountered in our positions on staff and reflected on them together.
Below are Some Highlights from the Policy
• All interactions with children must be observable and interruptible.
• Appropriate touch varies depending on age, relationship, and context, but should generally be limited to a fist bump, handshake, or high five.
• Inappropriate touch includes:
• Any area covered by a bathing suit
• Any touch that causes pain
• Overly physical touch such as tickling, roughhousing, or wrestling
• Lap sitting for children over the age of 5
• Hugs should be brief—”hug and release”
• Boundaries matter. Favoritism toward particular children should be avoided, and adults must maintain professional roles.
• Language guidelines include:
• No cursing
• Never tell a child to keep a secret
• No teasing, belittling, or shaming
• Do not share personal contact information or social media
• Do not discuss dating or relationships
Communication is Key
The most important message we continue to emphasize is this: if something feels wrong or off, speak with a supervisor or a member of the Child Safety Committee. Open and honest communication is essential to creating a culture of safety and accountability. This “takeaway” holds true for all members of our sacred community. We are responsible for one another, and particularly our children. It is incumbent upon us to speak up if we see something that raises concern regarding the safety of our children.
This policy is a living document. As we learn from our shared experiences and respond to new challenges, it will continue to evolve. We remain deeply grateful to the staff, lay leaders, and partners who helped shape and continue to guide this critical work.
You can review the full policy on our website (under “youth” tab) and we encourage all members of our community to stay informed and engaged as we work together to safeguard our children. If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to the committee at childsafety@bethelnr.org.
Beth El Nursery School
This past month was a busy and festive time at the Nursery School as we prepared for the Passover holiday. As we did at Chanukah, we once again approached the making of our “ritual item” in a new way. We divided our efforts according to grade level. Our two-year-olds focused on matzah, so they created matzah trays covered with family photos. Our Threes created afikomen bags, our four-yearolds made three-tiered matzah covers and our Gesher children created an outstanding Seder Plate to be used at the seder. These activities involved sewing, weaving, beading, stenciling, pasting and painting. Our hope is that these items will become family heirlooms to be used for many years to come.
Our children are accustomed to baking challah for Shabbat, we shifted into Matzah mode. We compared the process of baking matzah vs. baking challah. The singing of Passover tunes, including the 4 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!
Immediately before we started our model seders, the children conducted Bedikat chametz, the search for any leavened food in the classroom. This was an exciting activity for the children. We shut off the lights as the children carried dustpans, feathers and flashlights and began their search. Teachers strategically placed little bags of chametz around the room so that the
search would be 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!
Ronnie Becher & Shery Rosenstein
Beth El Nursery School
Beth El Day Camp
Building a Community of Care at Beth El Day Camp
Beth El Day Camp truly offers the Best. Days. Ever. and we know that the Best. Days. Ever. can’t happen without ensuring that everyone feels safe, loved, and cared for. At Beth El Day Camp, the safety and well-being of our campers and staff are our top priorities.
Thanks to the generosity of the Robert Matthew Klein Special Needs Fund, we are fortunate to have an LCSW join our team two mornings a week. During her time with us, she leads staff meetings that help our team manage camper behaviors, enhance collaboration, and develop essential skills. As the camp day unfolds, our camp social worker circulates among the groups, offering support wherever it’s needed—whether with campers who have additional needs or providing guidance to our staff. She is always on-call to lend her expertise when necessary. We are grateful to continue this invaluable support this summer.
In addition to our part-time camp social worker, last summer we introduced both a sensory space and a Director of Camper Care position. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. The Director of Camper Care’s primary goal is to support campers facing behavioral challenges while promoting MESH (mental, emotional, and social health). The sensory space also provided a much-needed respite from the exciting, but sometimes overstimulating, camp environment.
We are thrilled to report that, as of printing, there are 242 campers enrolled in our summer program and many of our beloved staff are returning. We look forward to a summer full of connection, belonging, and fun. This summer, we are proud to feature a STEM program from iCamp at Beth El
Day Camp. iCamp will bring an engaging and robust STEM curriculum to our program. We are also launching a new partnership with Westchester-based Fiddleheads Cooking Studio, who bring hands-on learning to full-day campers. Fiddleheads uses a multisensory approach to engage children in deep learning about where food comes from, how it tastes, and how they can be creative in the kitchen.
We invite all children ages 2-12 to experience the love and support of Beth El Day Camp this summer! With programming including cooking, sports, music, swimming, art, yoga, nature, and so much more, campers are sure to have a summer to remember. Spots are limited, so be sure to reach out to our leadership team today at daycamp@ bethelnr.org. Join us for the Best. Days. Ever. and become part of something truly special this summer!
Rebecca Guralnik & Zoe Schein
Beth El Day Camp
Department of Youth and Family
Purim and Passover 2025 was an exciting time for our Youth & Family Community. We celebrated Purim with a jam-packed Purim Carnival, including HOPEful Cooking, a chesed project proudly funded by UJA Federation. We had over 300 people join us for the Purim Carnival, whether as participants or volunteers, and we prepared 90 individual baked zitis and 90 jars of soup mix for HOPE Community Services’ kosher food pantry. Thank you so much to our volunteers for their support with the Carnival.
We then moved on to erev Purim, with a raucous Mini Megillah for our youngest community members. Our Youth community enjoyed the show Esther to the Rescue by The Bible Players, generously sponsored by Sisterhood, that mixed the Purim story with improv, comedy and Jewish values. Then, our Teens wowed us with their megillah reading on Purim evening–many thanks to all of our readers, and to Cantor Gaby for preparing them.
I also want to thank our Beth El community for their support with the Youth & Family Engagement Department’s annual Purim Matanot Le’evyonim fundraiser. With your support, we are able to continue funding excellent events for our Youth & Family Community.
In April, we enjoyed The Exodus Games as part of our Passover preparations. Two teams competed in a mini colorwar, and all of the challenges were Passover-themed.
Our middle schoolers led the groups and activities and the River Rizzlers team was victorious. Everyone had a wonderful time with the relay races, scavenger hunt, trivia, beitzah (egg)drop challenge, charoset competition, and obstacle course as they reviewed the parts of the seder, the Passover story, “crossed the Sea,” prepared pesadik food, and got excited to celebrate Passover with their friends and family.
As we look towards the summer, we are excited for Taste of Religious School and the Yankees Game in June, and Youth & Family Swim in July and August. We’ll come together for pizza and swimming over the summer, and this is a fun way for families to get together once school is finished. Invite your friends to join the fun, too!
Alyssa Berman
Beth El Youth & Family
The ickiest maror faces from Kitah Bet
Everyone up and moving with The Bible Players
A great time at Mini Megillah
bethelnr.org/nursery
Secrets of Our Sanctuary
This is the third of five Bulletin articles exploring the Beth El Sanctuary as we celebrate its 55th year. The Sanctuary was opened for use for the High Holidays in 1970.
The articles are based on the book, Let Them Build Me a Sanctuary, written by Beth El member Stanley Batkin, z’’l, who was the primary force behind the design and construction of the Sanctuary, which was part of the third building constructed to form our spiritual home, joining the Ballroom/ Auditorium building and the Religious School Building, which had been built, respectively, in 1957 and 1961, as Beth El fully transitioned from downtown New Rochelle to the North End.
We now turn our focus to the design of the bimah and items in plain sight that you might not have previously noticed.
The largest design element of the bimah is the two bare walls on each side. The decorative aspects of the room are purposefully restrained and understated to focus our attention on the Ark (discussed in the first article in this series). The sole fixed piece of art on the 56-foot wide Bimah floor is a seven branched Menorah on the left side with an interesting history that will be discussed in the next article.
Above the magnificent Aron Kodesh (Ark) hangs the Eternal Light, an antique made of fused silver and copper created by an unknown artisan. This unique and priceless treasure hung for many centuries in a synagogue in Damascus, Syria.On either side of the Ner Tamid are two Stars of David hanging from the ceiling. The stars were reclaimed from the chandeliers of the original Union Avenue location of Beth El in downtown New Rochelle. There are two identical stars hanging in the Crystal Ballroom. The stars were placed to delineate the dimensions of King Solomon’s Temple cited in the Bible - twenty cubits by threescore cubits (35 feet by 90 feet). Stanley noted that these are also the dimensions of the Sistine Chapel. The two stained glass windows on each side of the bimah were inspired by the description of the two columns, Joachim and Boaz, that stood before the sanctuary built by King Solomon in Jerusalem. As noted in Stanley’s book:
The two columns are crowned by two dynamic and luminous lights – the moon and the sun. The sun symbolizes the eternity of creation; the moon symbolizes the unity of the Jewish people and its mission, and the belief in one God. One of my favorite details on the lecterns and Torah table is the interlacing floral bronze decorative design, which was copied
from the remains of a synagogue discovered in 1957 in the fields of Kibbutz Nirim, in the Negev, northwest of Beersheba.
The Eastern Wall of the Sanctuary, behind the Great Ark, forms the interior wall of our signature North Avenue edifice. An obvious representation of the Kotel, it includes a close reproduction of the sizes, shape, and colors of the Western Wall, even in the narrowest stones in the upper portion, which were placed on the original wall between the twelfth and fifteenth centuries . . . Some of our stone . . . was quarried in the same area in Israel where it is thought that stone might have been cut for King Solomon’s Temple.
There are eight “Dignitary Seats” on each side of the Ark. The stone seats and corresponding Torah resting wells were modeled on seats found in a synagogue in Khorazin, a town on the Northern Shore of Lake Tiberius dating back before the second century. It was excavated in 1905 and 1926.
Now for the things hiding in plain sight.
There are four metal plates in the middle of the bimah floor, which can be moved to disclose holes for Chuppah poles.
There is a staircase on the left side of the bimah leading to an open area directly behind the Ark. The area, now used for Torah storage, was originally used as a choir loft. The Beth El organ was also located in this open area behind and below the Ark. It was used for weddings but was ultimately dismantled and removed.
The Senior Rabbi of Beth El traditionally sat in the first chair on the left of the Ark (facing the bimah) and used the lectern on that side. If you look carefully, there is a gap in the stone back wall to the left of the Rabbi’s seat. This “Rabbi’s Slot” was intended to allow notes to be passed to the Rabbi “unobtrusively” during services. As far as anyone knows, it was never used.
Steven Young Member
Lifelong Learners
Engage, learn, and connect with our vibrant community through these enriching programs!
Trip to The Bruce Museum bethelnr.org/bruce
Thursday, June 26, 9:45am - 2:15pm
Enjoy an outing to the Bruce Museum, Greenwich, CT, for a tour of Noguchi and The Art of Work: Painting Labor in Nineteenth-Century Denmark. Accessible event, please call with any special accommodations you may need.
9:45am – Depart Beth El by bus
11:00am – Museum Tour
12:30pm – Kosher lunch provided (sandwiches and fruit, GF options available)
2:15pm – Return to Beth El
Silver Sneakers/Flex bethelnr.org/silversneakers
Tuesdays, 10:00–11:15am through June
Stay active with this health and fitness class using balls, weights, and stretch bands. No charge for Silver Sneakers members; $5 for others.
Shmooze with the News No registration; just show up! 1st & 3rd Mondays, through June, at 11:00am
By popular demand, we’re offering these July sessions: Tuesdays July 8 & 22 at 5:30pm at Beth El followed by a pizza social at 6:30pm.
Tech Help at Beth El Contact Julie (details to the right) Tuesdays, 11:15am–12:15pm through June
Get 1:1 or small-group tech help with iPhone, Android, Tablet (iPad), Laptop. Appointments recommended, bring your device—call Julie to schedule!
SMART: Senior Mature Adults Retired Together
Mondays 11:00am No registration; just show up!
Enjoy friendship, fun, and lifelong learning in a warm and welcoming community. Connect with peers through engaging discussions! Join us on Zoom at bethelnr.org/smart-zoom.
Lunch and Learn Events bethelnr.org/lunchandlearn
Back in The Bronx
Tuesday, May 13 at 11:30am. Lunch at 12:30pm
Join Steve Samtur, author and publisher of Back in the Bronx magazine, for a nostalgic presentation featuring photos, videos, and interviews with Bronx celebrities like Regis Philbin, Chazz Palminteri, Robert Klein, and Rita Moreno.
Concert & The Borscht Belt- Remains of America’s Jewish Vacation Land
Tuesday, June 17, 11:30am. Lunch at 12:30pm
Explore the history of the Borscht Belt through the lens of summer swims, Saturday night dances, and legendary comedy performances. View stunning photographs of these iconic resorts today, and enjoy a Klezmer music concert featuring clarinetist Sam Sadigursky and accordionist Nathan Koci.
Come be a part of our Lifelong Learners community and keep growing with us!
Reach out to Julie Rockowitz, Lifelong Learners Coordinator at (914) 235.2700, ext. 340, or by email at jrockowitz@bethelnr.org
Film at Beth El!
Beth El Sisterhood
As we come to the close of this Sisterhood planning year and the end of my term as your Sisterhood president, I’d like to thank Sisterhood and our Congregation for supporting us and participating and enjoying our activities. We were able to bring two authors for book talks, Jonathan Rosen and Talia Carner. We hosted kiddishim for Sukkot and our annual Sisterhood Shabbat. We delivered shiva meals to those in bereavement. We hosted the Open Bet Midrash in March. We funded a Purim project for Beth El Youth & Family, and dedicated funds to the Nursery School for their Sensory Gym.
One of our major Sisterhood efforts has been to support the Jewish Theological Seminary by raising funds for the Torah
We Care Blankets Project — Join us on Thursday Mornings at 10:00am in the Beth El Den
Imagine being a child in a hospital room —away from home, away from school and surrounded by unfamiliar sights and sounds. Now imagine being wrapped in the warmth of a handmade blanket crafted with care.
This is the mission of We Care Blankets, a project at Beth El sponsored by Women’s League and Beth El Sisterhood to bring comfort, color and kindness to children facing medical challenges.
We are compassionate crafters, crocheting or knitting cozy, colorful blankets to donate to the Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital and to Blythedale Children’s Hospital. Each blanket is a reminder that someone out there cares.
Ways to help:
• You can join our Crafting Circle -whether you are a seasoned stitcher or a total beginner, welcome! We provide patterns, materials, and friendly guidance and
Fund, which provides scholarships to worthy rabbinical and cantorial students. Thanks to your collective efforts, we raised $15,000 for JTS! Please see bethelnr.org/sisterhood for a full list of donations. On May 13th, we will honor Beth El member and Women’s League Metro North President Judi Kenter at the Region’s annual Torah Fund dinner.
As our year comes to a close, we will fund a bus to take interested Sisterhood and synagogue members to the annual Israel Day Parade on May 18th, and we will host a game night on June 4th.
Thank you all for a great year, and wishing you a beautiful summer.
• You can make your own blanket. W 32x32 minimum with no fringes and brought to Beth El. Blankets must be washed. We will package them to specification and deliver.
Together we can turn skeins of yarn into symbols of love. Come be a part of something wonderful—every stitch makes a difference.
Contact Cindy Shechter to help at cindesigns31@gmail.com.
Marcia Assor
Beth El Sisterhood
Area
Laura Sweig Bet Torah
Judi Kenter Beth El Synagogue Center
Cantor Amy Kanarek Congregation Shir Shalom
Rabbi Dana Bogatz First Hebrew Congregation
Meryl Kupersmith Greenburgh Hebrew Center
Marilyn Drayer New City Jewish Center
Adele Garber Orangetown Jewish Center
Amy Schwartz Orangetown Jewish Center
Rabbi Annie Tucker Temple Israel Center
Beth El Community News
Mazal tov to:
Mazal tov to our Director of Programming, Stephanie Lederman & Harvey Lederman on the birth of their second beautiful granddaughter, Ava Dalia, and mazal tov also to parents, Ron Berger & Amanda Lederman Berger.
Mazal tov to Jacqueline Stern-Einzig & Avi I. Einzig on the marriage of their son Zachary to Tanya, daughter of Yelena Mestechkina and Mark Mestechkin of Brooklyn, NY.
Mazal tov to Susan Eichen & Jeff Mittleman and Michele Cydulka-Weinstein & Ed Weinstein on the Aufruf and upcoming marriage of their children, Ilana Mittleman and Gabriel Weinstein.
Mazal tov to Sarah and David Fleishaker on the birth of their new son Jack Matthew and mazal tov to big brother Avi. Also, mazal tov to grandparents Sheryl and Aaron Fleishaker and Sue and Michael Meisler.
Mazal tov to Evan & Liat Snyder on the bat mitzvah of their daughter, Maya Snyder, and Mazal tov also to Jack & Hava Simkhay, Daniel & Maria Snyder and Sharon Snyder & Bob Tuttle on the bat mitzvah of their granddaughter.
Mazal tov to Kara and Max Kalman on the birth of their daughter, Natalie Diane. Mazal tov also to big siblings Ethan and Dylan. We also wish a Mazal tov to grandparents, Sheryl and Aaron Fleishaker, and to aunt and uncle, Andrea Fleishaker and Jonathan Ravski and aunt and uncle, Sarah and David Fleishaker.
Mazal tov to Susan & David Schlecker on the birth of their granddaughter, Lilah Beth Shamah, born on March 7, 2025. Mazal tov also to grandfather Ron Shamah and Beth Shamah (z’l) and parents Rose Schlecker Shamah and Adam Shamah.
Mazal tov to Robin Freedman on the birth of her granddaughter, Rosalyn Reve, and mazal tov to parents, Hannah Bonomo and Zachary Freedman, and to big brother, Elliot.
Mazal tov to Alexandra and David Hollander on the birth of their son, and mazal tov also to big brother Noah, who is in the Gesher class at Beth El Nursery School.
Mazal tov to Noah & Michelle Kolodny on the bar mitzvah of their son, Levi and mazal tov also to both of the Rivlin and Kolodny extended families.
Mazal tov to Andrew Salama & Rachel Barbanel-Fried on the bar mitzvah of their son, Micah Salama.
Mazal tov to Kevin & Jenn Hylton on the bat mitzvah of their daughter, Libby Hylton.
Mazal tov to Michael & Sigal Lerner on the bat mitzvah of their daughter, Emma Lerner.
Mazal tov to Ellen Dembicer & Jeff Meyers on the birth of their granddaughter, Tamar Tzippora Meyers Levinsky on January 20, 2025. Mazal tov also to parents, Richard Meyers & Ran Levinsky.
Mazal tov to Dr. Shira Novack and Raanan Korinow on the birth of their daughter, Eliora Yaffa.
Mazal tov to Laura Jane Lewis on the birth of her first granddaughter, Ava Rose Elhai, and mazal tov also to parents, Michelle (Moseley) and Shaun Elhai.
Mazal tov to Stephan Loewentheil on the birth of his grandson, Judah Avner Bayefsky Loewentheil, and mazal tov to parents, Nate Loewentheil & Michelle Bayefsky. Mazal tov also to Leonora Loewentheil on the birth of her 6th great grandchild.
Mazal tov to Russell & Allyson Geller on the bat mitzvah of their daughter, Melanie Geller, and mazal tov also to Melanie’s brother, Jason.
Mazal tov to Russell & Allyson Geller on the bat mitzvah of their daughter, Melanie Geller, and mazal tov also to Melanie’s brother, Jason.
Mazal tov to Lori Weber, who is receiving her Cantorial Ordination from the Academy for Jewish Religion next week.
Mazal tov to Robin Bronk, who is being admitted to the Manhattan Jewish Historical Initiative Hall of Fame.
A warm Beth El mazal tov to one and all!
Condolences to:
Condolences to Steven (Kara) Goldman on the loss of his father, longtime member David Goldman z”l, and to Ben & Dani Goldman on the loss of their grandfather.
Condolences to Arthur (Janet) Jakoby on the loss of his mother Rose Jakoby z”l, and to Jason and Jessica Jakoby on the loss of their grandmother.
Condolences to Linda Hyman on the loss of her husband Dov Hyman z”l, to Jennifer (Ben Stauffer) Hyman, Rebecca (Brad) Leader, Sherri Hyman, and Joshua (June Criscione) Hyman on the loss of their father, and to Aurora, Selene, Desmond, Gemma, Spencer, and Violet on the loss of their grandfather.
Condolences to Carol Perlman on the loss of her brother, Eugene Bellin z”l, and to the rest of the Perlman and Bellin families.
Condolences to Maxine Friedman on the loss of her husband Jay Friedman z”l, to Beth Mobilian, Stefanie (Paul) Feidelson, and Mark (Nicole) Friedman on the loss of their father, to Zachary, Isabella, Lucy, Sara, Jane, Sadie, Alice and Wes on
the loss of their grandfather, and to Lenny on the loss of his great-grandfather.
Condolences to our member, Amy Kline, Gary (Samara) Kline and Kevin (Emily) Kline on the loss of their mother, Susan Kline z”l, and to Kaiya, Keller, Marlo, Cameron, Dani and Gibson on the loss of their grandmother.
Condolences to Moshe Gelboim on the loss of his wife, longtime member and past Beth El President, Ellen Gelboim z”l, to Avi (Meri) Gelboim and Ricky (Mollie) Gelboim on the loss of their mother, and to Julia, Rachel, Jesse, Alex and Mila on the loss of their grandmother.
Condolences to Eric (Ruth) Treiber and Cynthia (Uri Barkai) Treiber on the loss of their mother, Lilyan Treiber z”l, to Jonathan (Ariel) Treiber and Adam (Sara) Treiber on the loss of their grandmother, and to Avrie, Emma and Charlie on the loss of their great grandmother.
We record the losses suffered by our members and friends and extend to them our deepest sympathies.
Share your milestone events with us
If you experience a milestone or a loss in your family contact Zoe at zraynes@bethelnr.org or (914) 235-2700, ext. 223
Kiddush Sponsors
The kiddush of March 1st was sponsored by Susan Eichen and Jeff Mittleman in honor of the Aufruf of their daughter, Ilana Mittleman, and Gabriel Weinstein.
The kiddush of March 8th was sponsored by Beth El Sisterhood.
The kiddush of March 15th was sponsored by Evan & Liat Snyder in honor of the bat mitzvah of their daughter, Maya.
The kiddush of March 22nd was sponsored by Noah & Michelle Kolodny in honor of the bar mitzvah of their son, Levi.
The kiddush of March 29th was sponsored by Andrew Salama & Rachel Barbanel-Fried in honor of the bar mitzvah of their son, Micah Salama.
The kiddush of April 5th was sponsored by Sheryl and Aaron Fleishaker in honor of their Granddaughter Natalie’s baby naming.
The kiddush of April 26th was sponsored by Russell & Allyson Geller in honor of their daughter, Melanie’s bat mitzvah.
The kiddush of April 26th was sponsored by Russell & Allyson Geller in honor of their daughter, Melanie’s bat mitzvah.
Beth El Gives
General Fund
In Honor of:
The marriage of Lewis Herskowitz & Michelle Sperling, from Adele Ostrager.
Marvin & Shari Chinitz, from Judith & Elliot Schwartz.
Zeev Schuck’s bat mitzvah, from Ruth Esses.
The recent weddings of Jacob Mittleman to Dr. Lena Chatterjee and Ilana Mittleman to Gabriel Weinstein, from Barbara & Lawrences Orans.
Rabbi Mark Sameth, from Laura Elias.
The Kiddush Committee with thanks for their great work on the luncheon following the Aufruf of Ilana Mittleman and Gabe Weinstein, from Jeff & Susan Mittleman.
Esther Mildner, Minyan Breakfast Honoree, from Marc & Anita Zoldessy.
The 65th wedding anniversary of Melvyn & Joyce Meyerson, from Greta Gross.
In Memory of:
My cousin, David Goldman z”l, from Bill Winters.
Abraham Michael Sulman z”l and Rochelle Sulman z”l, from Erik & Dara Sulman.
Joseph Resnick z”l, beloved husband of Linda Resnick, from Andrew Weimer, Lois Morgenstern, Frieda & Max Strauss, Claire Reyner and Cindy & Larry Geisinger.
Amy Greenberg O’Malley z”l, from Megan Lococo.
David Goldman z”l, beloved father of Steven and daughter in law Kara. Grandfather of Ben and Danielle, from Barbara & Joe Wygoda.
Howard’s mother, Gail Goldstein-Kenvin z”l, upon her yahrzeit, from Howard & Helene Goldstein.
Helene’s mother, Julia Lefkowitz z”l, upon her Yahrzeit, from Helene & Howard Goldstein.
Harold Mogil z”l and Dr. Jacob Esses z”l, from Ruth Esses. Jay Friedman z”l, beloved husband of Maxine Friedman, from Margie Danziger.
Jack Shulman z”l, from Barbara & Harold Shulman.
Dov Hyman z”l, beloved husband of Linda Hyman, from Lawrence & Francine Rubenstein, Lawrence & Barbara Orans and Hedy & Alan Ganz.
Max & Lena Katzowitz z”l, from Lauren Katzowitz Shenfield.
My beloved husband, Jay Friedman z”l, from Maxine Friedman.
My father, David Steinman z”l, from Howard Steinman.
Steven’s Father, Morris ‘Morrie’ Stein z”l, on his yahrzeit, from Shirin & Steven Stein.
Ellen Gelboim z”l, beloved wife of Moshe Gelboim, from Jan & Bob Ralph, Bob & Barbara Cohen, Stacey Bell and Virve Deutsch.
Helene’s mother, Julia Lefkowitz z”l and her brother, David z”l, upon their yahrzeits, from Helene and Howard Goldstein.
Lilyan Treiber z”l, beloved mother of Eric Treiber, from Barbara & Bob Cohen.
Dorothy and Donald Fleishaker Religious School Enrichment Fund
In Honor of:
Aaron & Sheryl Fleishaker on the birth of their grandson, and mazal tov to parents, Sarah & David Fleishaker, from Esther & Mark Mildner and Marc & Anita Zoldessy.
The birth of a daughter, Natalie Diane to Kara & Max Kalman, and mazal tov to Sheryl & Aaron Fleishaker on the birth of their granddaughter, from Harvey & Phyllis Jay, Barbara & David Horowitz, Elise & Bob Schepp, Marc & Anita Zoldessy, and Esther & Mark Mildner.
In Memory of:
Donald Fleishaker z”l, from Susan & Daniel Groner.
The Robert Matthew Klein Fund for Inclusion and Special Needs
In Honor of:
The bat mitzvah of Zoe Tamir, from Judi Schmeidler. Esther Mildner, Minyan Breakfast Honoree, from Nora Klion Wolloch.
Ziv Corwin’s 2nd birthday! Happy Birthday Ziv, from Ellen & Jason Wirchin.
The birth of a daughter, Natalie Diane to Kara & Max Kalman, from Lori & Steve Schwartz.
In Memory of:
Jane Perry z”l, beloved mother of Carrie Fox, from Leslie & Dick Ruttenberg.
Birgitta Sherman z”l, dear mother of Michael, mother-inlaw of Alyssa and grandmother of Maxwell and Benjamin, from Leslie & Dick Ruttenberg.
Dov Hyman z”l, beloved husband of Linda Hyman, from Nora Klion Wolloch, Susan & Bobby Goldstein, Steven & Debbie Young, Elise & Bob Schepp, Joyce & Michael Wechsler and Joel & Maxine Siegel.
YOU!
The Yvette and Herman Gordon Century Fund for Adult Teaching and Learning
Barbara Lazarus;
In Memory of:
Our parents, Lida and Harold Keltz z”l, from Elise & Barry Richman.
Herman W Gordon z”l, Michael Hirsch z”l, William Hirsch z”l and Helen Gordon z”l on their yahrzeits, from Yvette Gordon.
Sam Perlman z”l, beloved husband of Carol Perlman with love and support as always, from Dorothy Fox.
Selma & Stanley Batkin Religious School Scholarship Fund
In Memory of:
Ellen Gelboim, beloved wife of Moshe Gelboim, from the Weisfuse family.
Youth & Family Engagement Fund
In Memory of:
Joseph Resnick z”l, beloved husband of Linda Resnick, from Elliot & Susan Lesser.
Shoresh Halev Center for Jewish Music Fund
Michael & Claudia Felberg; Amy & Robert Feilbogen; Barbara & Bob Cohen.
In Honor of:
Jack Klebanow and all his hard work in developing music programs at Beth El, from Judi Schmeidler.
Laura Lewis’s special birthday, from Elise & Bob Schepp and Rochelle Chaiken.
All the wonderful music programs at Beth El, from Erica & Larry Epstein.
Marc Suvall with thanks, from Harriet Kriegel.
Shari & Marvin Chinitz on the bat mitzvah of their granddaughter, Zoe Tamir, from Phyllis & Harvey Jay.
Sheryl and Aaron Fleishaker on the birth of their granddaughter and Kara & Max Kalman on the birth of their daughter, from Marc Suvall & Harriet Kaplan Suvall.
The birth of Natalie Diane Kalman, from Meri-Jane Rochelson & Joel Mintz.
Lori Weber’s Cantorial Ordination, from Phyllis & Harvey Jay.
Shul Shenanigans, from Alan Weiler.
Gabby Cohen’s performance in Pippin, from Shari & Marvin Chinitz.
Harriet Kaplan Suvall’s special birthday, from Shari & Marvin Chinitz.
Jeff & Susan Mittleman on the marriage of their son, Jacob to Dr. Lena Chatterjee, and the marriage of their daughter, Ilana to Gabriel Weinstein. Mazal tov, from Shery & Howard Rosenstein.
Micah Salama’s bar mitzvah, from Shery & Howard Rosenstein.
Esther Mildner’s wonderful davening and her being honored at the annual minyan breakfast, from Laura Lewis.
In Memory of:
Dov Hyman z”l, beloved husband of Linda Hyman, from Shari & Marvin Chinitz.
Eugene Bellin z”l, beloved brother of Carol Perlman, from Dorothy Fox.
Lilyan Treiber z”l, beloved mother of Eric Treiber, from Phyllis & Harvey Jay.
Jeremy Scheinfeld Memorial Fund
In Memory of:
Laura Penn z”l, beloved mother of Erica Epstein, from Leslie & Dick Ruttenberg.
Mania Goldhecht z”l, from Marc & Ruth Sininsky.
My husband, Dr. Mitchell Kaphan z”l on his yahrzeit, from Robin Kaphan.
David Goldman z”l, beloved father of Steven Goldman, from Robin Kaphan.
Men’s Club
In Memory of:
Eddie Scharfman z”l, devoted father of Emily and Brian, and husband of Rochelle Chaiken, from Phyllis & Harvey Jay.
David Gingold Nursery School Fund
In Honor of:
Stephanie & Harvey Lederman on the birth of their granddaughter, Ava Dalia, from Harvey and Phyllis Jay.
The Sylvia & Robert Scher Chesed Community Fund
In Honor of:
The wedding of Ilana Mittleman and Gabe Weinstein, from Jeff & Susan Mittleman.
In Memory of:
Abe Walfish z”l on his yahrzeit, from Jeff & Susan Mittleman. Kenie Mittleman z”l, Fanny Friedman z”l, Morty Eichen z”l and Glenn Eichen z”l on their yahrzeits, from Jeff & Susan Mittleman.
Ellen Gelboim z”l, beloved wife of Moshe Gelboim, from Phyllis & Harvey Jay, Harriet & David Rudnick, Elise & Bob Schepp, David & Rosalind Hertzog and family, David & Geralynn Reifer, Linda Resnick, Laura Lewis and Dorothy Fox.
Capital Improvement Fund
In Memory of:
Joseph Resnick z”l, beloved husband of Linda Resnick, from Rosalind & Richard Kaufman, Dorothy Fox,
Joseph & Barbara Wygoda, Pamela Buder and Alissa Kaplan.
Eugene Bellin z’l, beloved brother of Carol Perlman, from Linda Resnick.
Endowment Fund
In Memory of:
Marc’s father, Walter Klee z”l on his yahrzeit, from Marc & Barbara Klee.
Yahrzeit Donations
Rhona Renov Aronstein; Robert Baum; Jane & Steven Berkowitz; Marian Berkowitz; Frances Blumenfeld; Jerome Brown; Jody Burton; Rachel & Barry Charles; Sheila Cohen; Judy & Doug Conrad; Deena & Joshua Davis; Irwin & Ilene Davison; Susan Goldstein & Family; Jacqueline & Avi Einzig; Nathan Eisler; Joan Faier & Andy Tannen; Jessica & Ray Farkas; Ella & Russell Fayer; Allen & Barbara Feinberg; Michael, Claudia, Arielle & Ilan Felberg; Dalia Fenster; Deborah Frankel; Beatrice Freedman; Pamela Friedman & Robert Preminger; Meredith & Joel Gantcher; Rita & Bruce Gilbert; Jerry Gottlieb; Gottlieb Family; Sherry Sterner Grabowski; Malcolm & Florence Graff; Debra Greenberg; Greta Gross; Sheldon Haber & Family; John &Sue Hakimi; Marilyn Handler; Robin Hessel; Linda Israel; Janet Jakoby; Marcia Kahn; Deborah Kaplan; Rosalind Kaufman; Zona Kaufman; Ted Keltz & Beth Breakstone; Steven Kessler; Donald & Barbara Kotler; Danuta Kurstein; Carol Ann Leibner; Phyllis Leitner; Caryn Levison; Sande Lichtenstein; Anita & Stanley Liebowitz; Sima & Mitchell Littman; Susan Lurie; Michael Malina; Arkady Mamaysky; Esther Mildner; Mindell Patchen; Herbert & Lynda Posner; Jack Renick; Sherry & Paul Rifkin; Richard Robbins; MeriJane Rochelson & Joel Mintz; Patricia Greenwel-Rojkind; Robert & Huguette Rosenthal; George & Sharon Rozansky; Judge Barry & Arlene Salman; Evelyn & Barry Salter; Deborah Schlein; Marjorie Schlosberg; Judi Schmeidler; Lloyd Sherman; Joyce Gladstone Silver; Barbara Simon; Ruth & Marc Sininsky; Leslie Snyder; Steven & Rachelle Stern; Harold Sussman; Troyetsky Family; Tova Usdan; Frederick Weiner; Rebecca Wertheimer; William Winters; Norbert Wolloch; Murray Zung.
Rabbi’s
Discretionary Fund
Ira & Cynthia Shechter in honor of Zeev Schuck’s bat mitzvah; Michael Wechsler in memory of Rosalind Wechsler z”l; Marc & Barbara Lazarus in honor of Zeev Schuck’s bat mitzvah; Wendy & Bill Chabon Robbins in memory of Joseph Resnick z”l, beloved husband of Linda Resnick; Lois Morgenstern in honor of Zeev Schuck’s bat mitzvah; Jason Silverman in memory of his mother, Mildred Silverman z”l; Shirin & Steven Stein in memory of Steven’s mother, Ruth Stein z”l; Shirin & Steven Stein
in memory of Shirin’s father, David Marvi z”l; Jeffrey Graf in memory of his beloved father and long-time member of Beth El Rudolf Graf z”l on his Yahrzeit; Kenneth Honig in memory of his maternal grandfather, Ervin Waller z”l on his yahrzeit; Joyce Wechsler in memory of Annette Chabrow z”l on her yahrzeit; Lisa & Perry Jacobs for the recovery of Sarah Ratza bat Leah Shandel; Lisa & Perry Jacobs for the recovery of Leah Shandel bat Hana; Esther Winik in honor of Shari & Marvin Chinitz and Ilana & Uri Tamir on Zoe’s bat mitzvah; Esther Winik in honor of the marriage of Dr. Joshua Hyman to Dr. June Criscione; David & Reena Glick in memory of Israel Bloom z”l; Thomas & Marcia Lustig in memory of Joseph Resnick z”l, beloved husband of Linda Resnick; Daniel Ifcher in memory of Ellen Gelboim z”l, beloved wife of Moshe Gelboim; Mark & Eleanor Walfish in memory of Eleanor’s mother, Ruth Radin z”l; Mark & Eleanor Walfish in memory of Dov Hyman z”l, beloved husband of Linda Hyman; Michael Wechsler in honor of Rabbi Zach Sitkin; Loretta & Arthur Holland in memory of Jack Yadgaroff z”l; Loretta & Arthur Holland in memory of Cyril Wick z”l; Isaiah & Janet Seligman in memory of Lilyan Treiber z”l, beloved mother of Eric Treiber.
Cantor’s Discretionary Fund
Phyllis & Harvey Jay in honor of Emma Lerner’s bat mitzvah; Rita & David Kaufman in memory of Lilyan Treiber z’l, beloved mother of Eric Treiber; Lea Gabbay to assist anyone in need during Passover.
(914) 235-2700 ext 228
Sisterhood Donations
In Honor of:
Mindell Patchen, your special birthday. Mazal tov, from Erica & Larry Epstein, Sandy & Jack Gruenberg
Barbara and Joe Wygoda, the bar mitzvah of your grandson, Jack Bohrer. Mazal tov from Sheila Cohen
Vicki Fisher, your induction into Westchester Senior Hall of Fame and creating a beautiful Sisterhood Shabbat from Carole & Jeff Graham
Joyce & Michael Wechsler, thank you for your kindness and support during my episode at DAF from Carole & Jeff Graham
Ellen Hollander, thank you for your kindness and support during my episode at DAF from Carole & Jeff Graham
Elise Richman, thank you for your kindness and support during my episode at DAF from Carole & Jeff Graham
Dorothy Fox, thank you for your kindness and support during my episode at DAF from Carole & Jeff Graham
Judy Schmeidler, thank you for your kindness and support during my episode at DAF from Carole & Jeff Graham
Howard Rosenstein, thank you for giving me the opportunity to attend in Shul Shananigans2 from Carole & Jeff Graham
Sheryl & Aaron Fleishaker, two new grandchildren, Natalie and Jack from Sandy & Jack Gruenberg, Joyce & Michael Wechsler
Vicki Fisher, the beautiful job you did arranging the Sisterhood
Shabbat, thank you from Gaby & George Newfield
Kara & Max Kalman, the birth of your daughter, Natalie
Diane. Mazal tov from Ellen & Jack Hollander
Shira Novack & Raanan Korinow, the birth of your daughter, Eliora Jaffa. Mazal tov from Barbara & David Horowitz
Beth El Sisterhood, thank you for all you do from Lisa and Perry Jacobs
In Memory of:
Laura Penn, beloved mother of Erica Epstein from Mindell Patchen, Carole & Jeff Graham
Joe Resnick, beloved husband of Linda Resnick from Erica & Larry Epstein, Sandy & Jack Gruenberg
Jane Perry, beloved mother of Carrie Fox from Carole & Jeff Graham
Dov Hyman, beloved husband of Linda Hyman and beloved father and grandfather from Ellen & Jack Hollander, Sandy & Jack Gruenberg
Hilda Gamson Savitz, beloved mother of Sandy Gruenberg from Sandy & Jack Gruenberg
Michael Bernet from Sheila Tanenbaum
Lilyan Treiber, beloved mother of Eric Treiber and family from Erica & Larry Epstein, Joyce & Michael Wechsler
Ellen Gelboim, beloved wife of Moshe Gelboim and mother of Avi and Ricky from Joyce & Michael Wechsler
Synagogue Guide
We hope this guide makes it easier to figure out who on staff to contact for all your needs.
To see all upcoming services and events, visit bethelnr.org/calendar/ For a list of this week’s events with registration and Zoom links, visit bethelnr.org/this-week/ To sign up to read Torah or Haftorah, visit bethelnr.org/readhaftorah
Ronnie Becher (Nursery School Director) ext 250 nursery@bethelnr.org
Viki Bedo (Rabbi) ext 427 vbedo@bethelnr.org
Clive Benmor (Administrative Coordinator) ext 223 cbenmor@bethelnr.org
Alyssa Berman (Youth & Family Engagement Director) ext 221 aberman@bethelnr.org
Naiza Cintron (Executive Assistant) ext 227 ncintron@bethelnr.org
Elizabeth Clain (Executive Director) ext 225 eclain@bethelnr.org
Rebecca Guralnik (Camp Director) ext 256 daycamp@bethelnr.org
Jack Klebanow (Music Director) ext 252 jklebanow@bethelnr.org
Margarita Korol (Mktng/ Communications Director) ext 291 mkorol@bethelnr.org
Stephanie Lederman (Director of Programming) ext 246 slederman@bethelnr.org
Who to Call If You...
Want to make a donation?
Zoe Raynes ext 228
Had a baby, know someone in the hospital, had a death in the family, or need Rabbinic counsel?
Zoe Raynes ext 228
Zoe Raynes (Clergy Assistant) ext 228 zraynes@bethelnr.org
Julie Rockowitz (Senior Programming Coordinator) ext 340 jrockowitz@bethelnr.org
Shery Rosenstein (Nursery School Assistant Director) ext 235 nursery@bethelnr.org
Marilyn Russell (Facilities Director) ext 226 mrussell@bethelnr.org
David Schuck (Rabbi) ext 230 dschuck@bethelnr.org
Gaby Schvartz (Cantor) ext 326 gschvartz@bethelnr.org
Zoe Schein (Assistant Camp Director) ext 338 daycamp@bethelnr.org
Zachary Sitkin (Rabbi) ext 338 zsitkin@bethelnr.org
Olivier Vogel (Controller) ext 231 ovogel@bethelnr.org
Are you celebrating a milestone or achievement at Beth El?
Have a question about catering or celebrating a simcha at Beth El?
Stephanie Lederman or Naiza Cintron ext 227
Need to set up a bar/bat/b’nei mitzvah date?
Zoe Raynes ext 228
Need to purchase a cemetery plot or need information about our cemeteries?
Elizabeth Clain ext 225
Have a question about a Yahrzeit date?
Zoe Raynes ext 228
Need to know the time of services? bethelnr.org/calendar or Clive Benmor ext 223
Have a question about events?
Stephanie Lederman ext 246
Interested in joining one of our many clubs?
Stephanie Lederman ext 246
Want to volunteer?
Stephanie Lederman ext 246
Need information about membership?
Elizabeth Clain ext 225
Have a question about your statement?
Olivier Vogel ovogel@bethelnr.org
Interested in our Religious School?
Alyssa Berman ext 221
Interested in our day camp?
Rebecca Guralnik ext 256
Want to join Sisterhood or Men’s Club?
Clive Benmor ext 223
Interested in Nursery School?
Ronnie Becher or Shery Rosenstein ext 250
Interested in Youth & Family events?
Alyssa Berman ext 221
Conquer The Market With Glorianne!
20 Tintern Lane, Scarsdale PO, New Rochelle COMPLETELY RENOVATED!
Architectural splendor set on .44 acres of private lush grounds. This stunning home idealy blends modern luxury and classic elegance.
The first-floor flow is fantastic with a gracious entry hall, and an elegant formal dining room. The oversized living room with wood burning fireplace is great for a cozy night. Adjoining the living room is a sun-filled den. At the heart of the home, the gourmet kitchen has a generous workspace, 2 sinks and 2 dishwashers, warming drawer, Thermador 6-burner Range and a separate Convection Wall Oven. Adjacent to the kitchen, the spacious family room has sliders to yard. Unwind outdoors on your blue stone patio & enjoy the private backyard & lush grounds.
The staircase, in the entrance foyer, leads to the second level. Here, a private primary bedroom suite offers custom closets and a luxurious marble bath. Three additional bedrooms and an updated hall bath offers double sinks & heated floors. A separate staircase accessed from the kitchen creates access to a separate guest bedroom and full bath.
Head downstairs to the lower level, complete with a spacious entertaining family room, fitness studio and full bath, 530 bottle wine room, laundry room, and plenty of storage space. Access to the side yard, with 8–10-person hot tub. Attached 2-car heated garage with easy access to the kitchen.
Close to schools, Metro-North, the Golden Horseshoe Shopping Center and houses of worship.
5 BR | 4.1 BATH | 0.44 LEVEL ACRES
SHERY ROSENSTEIN
SHERY ROSENSTEIN
