Dear Friends,
Rabbi’s Message
I will never forget what it felt like to remove the hostage counter on North Avenue with about a hundred others from our shul. You came out in the rain, and after a brief ceremony, we cut the ties that held it together. A number fell. I felt my body relax, and the tears came.
I was surprised by how emotional that moment was. It reminded me of that first warm spring day after a long winter, when you step outside and feel the sun on your face and suddenly realize how much you had been living under the weight of gray skies. That is how I felt when the banner came down. I could finally breathe. I had not realized how much tension and sorrow I constantly lived with since October 7th.
This is the time for us to go. To offer a collective hug. To celebrate a new dawn with the people of Israel. To lend our hands and hearts to rebuilding what was broken.
I am leading a volunteer mission from December 28th to January 3rd. It is open to everyone: families, singles, couples of all ages. There is generous funding available through the UJA Federation of New York to make participation possible.
I would love to share this journey with you. We will volunteer, meet Israelis who have lived through these two years of unimaginable trial, and gain a deeper, more nuanced understanding of Israel’s challenges and hopes.
I am overjoyed that the living hostages were returned home, and I pray that the remaining bodies will be brought home swiftly for a dignified burial.
Since October 7th, I have been to Israel six times: to volunteer, to comfort, to simply be with our people in a time of horror. Now, I cannot wait to return as the nation turns from war to the long work of healing. Israelis have been living in the shadow of trauma. They have not yet left October 7th. But now, together, they will begin to heal.
Join me, to volunteer side-by-side, to explore Israeli society in this moment of renewal, to spend Shabbat together in Jerusalem, and of course, to have a wonderful time together in our homeland. If you have any questions, please email or call me.
L’Shalom,
Rabbi David A. Schuck
Join Rabbi David Schuck for a transformative immersion in Israel to deepen our empathy for its people and their experiences since October 7th. We will travel, learn, and volunteer together to deepen our understanding of the past two years of war, its impact on Israeli society, and the questions it raises about the nation’s future.
• Deepen family bonds through shared Jewish and Zionist experiences.
• Volunteer at several NGO’s that have been created in the aftermath of October 7.
• Gain a renewed and nuanced understanding of Israel’s challenges and resilience.
• Feel empowered to engage in meaningful Israel advocacy and communal leadership.
• Establish ongoing relationships with Israeli individuals and organizations encountered during the trip.
President’s Message
One of the questions I’m asked most often about Beth El is about numbers—specifically, membership. People want to know: Are we growing? How many new members have joined? I hear it from everyone: current members, prospective members, even my own family.
On Kol Nidrei, I shared some exciting figures about Beth El’s continued growth. As of the High Holidays, 31 new families had already joined since July 1, 2025, and 34 families joined during the prior fiscal year (July 1, 2024 - June 30, 2025).
That means we are now celebrating our third consecutive year of growth!
But numbers alone don’t tell the whole story.
When I looked more closely at who makes up these 65 new families, I found something remarkable. Our youngest new adult member is 22, and our oldest is 83. Among all our new adult members, 40 are between 40 & 60, & 21 are between 30 & 40—a wonderful spread of generations joining our community.
Thinking about membership got me curious about other kinds of numbers at Beth El—the ones that tell the story of our community life.
In 2025, we celebrated 21 b’nei mitzvot and 7 aufrufs on Shabbat mornings. Those moments of joy reflect the vibrant lifecycle of our congregation.
Speaking of big numbers, setting up for the High Holidays means placing 1,127 chairs across the sanctuary and ballroom. This does not include chairs in the Kasakove, tent or any of the many locations that were used for family programming. Wow!
And then there’s food—always a favorite topic. Our beloved Kiddush is where friendships deepen and conversations flow…along with the coffee. Each year, our community enjoys approximately 1,500 pounds of tuna fish, 4,000 pounds of coffee, 20 pounds of cookies each week, 10 pounds of cream cheese, 12–15 dozen eggs, and 30 pounds of egg salad. That’s a lot of good food and good company.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this look at Beth El by the Numbers. The data may be impressive, but what truly matters are the people—and the connections—behind every one of those numbers. I look
Lauren Freeman-Bosworth President
On the cover: After 738 days of marking the days since our hostages were taken, the community gathered on a rainy afternoon before the start of Simchat Torah to mark a milestone, shifting to a message of hope after all the living hostages returned to their families. Top photo by member Darren Peister.
Mazal Tov
to this year’s Simchat Torah honorees
Andrea Fleishaker - Kallat Kol Ha N’arim
Thank you to Andrea for her work on behalf of the children at Beth El, leading the Nursery PTA, and organizing warm and welcoming events for our young families. Andrea grew up at Beth El and we are so happy that she and her family moved back to the area and are an important part of our community.
Barbara Finder - Kallah Hatan Torah
Thank you to Barbara for supporting our daily minyan, being present and available at a moment’s notice when we need people, and for learning to lead Mincha and Maariv services. We appreciate help from all of our members in making a minyan—we encourage those interested in learning to help lead services to talk to Barbara about her experience working with Cantor Gaby.
Marcia Assor - Kallat Breishit
Thank you to Marcia for her years of dedication to Sisterhood, and for serving as past president, helping to expand programming and the support that Sisterhood provides to Beth El. Our Sisterhood welcomes all, and Marcia encouraged all of the women of Beth El to join this year.
Beth El’s Floor Gabbais - Maftir Honor
Special thanks to all of the floor Gabbais who dedicate their Shabbat mornings to making sure that the honors and aliyot are assigned and go smoothly. They do this with grace, kindness, and a welcoming spirit. They help make sure that families with special celebrations, their guests, regulars, new members and visitors feel welcomed and honored.
Our floor gabbais include Steve Young—our longest-serving gabbai with almost 30 years of experience, Avi Einzig, Donna Levy, Robin Yairi, David Schecter, Susan Solow Dubin, Rob Patchen and Shayna Klopott. Thank you to Robin Yairi for her beautiful chanting of the Haftorah on Simchat Torah.
—Save the Date—
Den Parochet (ark curtain) dedication
Please join the Fleishaker family in honoring the memory of Donald J. Fleishaker z”l at the dedication of our Den’s Parochet (Ark Curtain)
Wednesday, December 17th, 2025
6:00pm, Hanukkah Candle Lighting and Dedication
The Beth El Youth & Family Committee Presents
Shabbat Weekend
friday, December 12th
4:09pm Candle Lighting
6:00pm Community Dinner
6:00pm Kabbalat Shabbat
saturday, december 13th
9:00am Shabbat Morning Services
10:30am Junior Minyan, Mini Minyan, Tot Shabbat
12:45pm Daf Shevui
4:10pm Mincha/Maariv
5:09pm Havdalah
5:30pm Youth & Family Town Hall
5:30pm Upper Elementary Havdalah & Movie
5:30pm Pajama Havdalah
Please register for dinner at bethelnr.org/shabbat-weekend
First Friday Kabbalat Shabbat
Join us for uplifting communal music and joy
Every first Friday of the month at 6:00pm
Saturday, december 20th
Book your babysitters for the evening now!
Shoresh Halev Center for Jewish Music at Beth El
“I have a piano that my mom has had for 30 plus years and it doesn’t get much use, and I was wondering if Beth El might have a spot for it.”
I get these calls and emails around once a month. Sadly, my response is always the same … the piano is most likely unplayable after so many years of neglect, and the restoration and transportation will cost far more than the piano is actually worth. There are no good options for most of these old pianos.
But this inquiry was different. This is the email I received:
To Whom it May Concern,
I hope this message finds you well. I am reaching out to explore the possibility of donating a fully restored 1901 Steinway Model B grand piano. This extraordinary instrument— serial number 101201—features a rare Louis XIV gilded and decorated exterior and was originally built on November 30, 1901. It has been carefully restored to preserve its elegance, craftsmanship, and musical integrity.
I would be happy to share detailed photos, restoration documentation, provenance, and an appraisal upon request. Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I would welcome the opportunity to speak further.
Kindly,
Paola Botero, Marc Bell Capital Partners
What? I asked myself…Is this spam? Is this a hoax? I proceeded cautiously. I wrote:
Thanks for your email. I am interested in knowing more about the piano. Please send me pictures, and details about the work that has been done.
Many emails ensued, back and forth, including confirmation directly from the Steinway Restoration Factory that the work on the piano was comprehensive, including new sound board, pinblock, pins, strings, dampers, hammers, keys - all new Steinway parts. It became clear to me that the piano is truly a gem. Every Steinway piano has its own personality, and distinctive sound, and this one promised to sound gorgeous. The donation included transportation and even a first tuning by Steinway. So I responded enthusiastically:
I would like to accept the piano on behalf of Shoresh Halev Center for Jewish Music at Beth El… I am very pleased to be able to provide you with a suitable next stop on this piano’s illustrious journey!
Now that the piano has arrived, I can confirm that it not only sounds extraordinary, but this instrument has an original, oneof-a-kind Steinway art case. The piano is hand-painted with gold leaf and decorated with a delicate and unusual filigree. It is as beautiful to see as it is to hear!
For those of you who joined us on Selichot, you had an opportunity to see and hear the piano. We are so grateful to Marc Bell for his generous contribution, and we look forward to lifting our spirits and deepening our musical experiences with this special instrument.
I may just have to get a sequined, Liberace-style jacket to go with this special gold piano!
Jack Klebanow Music Director, Shoresh Halev Center for Jewish Music at Beth El
Jewish learning is at the heart of our communal and spiritual life at Beth El. We strive to provide enriching and inspiring educational opportunities, no matter your background or experience. Our vision for adult education is to foster a culture of learning that enables every member of our community to become a seeker of Jewish wisdom.
Our learning programs are funded by The Yvette and Herman Gordon Century Fund for Adult Teaching and Learning. Please consider making a contribution to this fund to enhance our adult education programs at bethelnr.org/donate.
Israel 360 | Staying Connected with our Israeli Family
The Israel 360 Committee will launch this year’s programming on Thursday, November 6th at 7:30pm with a thought-provoking presentation by Professor Dan BenDavid, President of The Shoresh Institution. Shoresh is an independent, non-partisan socio-economic policy research center dedicated to identifying the root causes of Israel’s internal challenges—issues that pose an existential threat to the country’s future.
Professor Ben-David argues that while Israel has made great strides in addressing external threats, the time has come to confront internal ones. With rapid demographic shifts reshaping Israeli society, he contends that the nation has a rare, urgent opportunity to change course. His presentation promises to be a compelling and eye-opening discussion on the critical decisions facing Israel today.
In addition to Professor Ben-David’s event, Israel 360 is finalizing plans for several other engaging programs. Among them is a presentation by Beth El congregant Salo Aizenberg, an independent scholar and author specializing
in antisemitism and the Israel-Palestinian conflict. Salo serves on the board of HonestReporting, an organization that monitors media coverage of Israel and exposes bias and misinformation. Salo is also the author of Hatemail: Anti-Semitism on Picture Postcards, a finalist for the 2013 National Jewish Book Awards.
Additional programs are currently in the works—stay tuned for updates. We look forward to a year of meaningful, timely conversations that deepen our understanding and connection to Israel.
We are so thankful that all the live hostages were returned and continue to pray for the return of all remaining hostages for a proper burial, closure for their loved ones and lasting peace.
Tamar Tait & Mark Seidenfeld Co-Chairs, Israel 360 Committee
Our community-made kalaniyot project commemorating lives lost on and after October 7th, 2023 was dedicated on Simchat Torah this year.
Keruv | Accessibility & Inclusion @ Beth El
As the days grow shorter and the air turns colder, Jews around the world breathe a collective sigh as we conclude the New Year and the marathon of holidays that followed. This year, our relief and gratitude are even deeper as we celebrate the return of our hostages, a moment that has brought profound joy and gratitude to our community. As we flip the calendar to November, the only holiday on the horizon is Thanksgiving. While Thanksgiving comes with its own unique preparations, it is a secular American holiday with no formal religious or ritual observance. And yet, for our family, this one holiday still manages to bring its own share of stress and anxiety.
As many of you know, more than 10 years ago our oldest daughter fell in love with and married a person not of the Jewish faith. One vivid memory we have is sitting on the couch with our soon to be son-in-law and joyfully working out some details of visiting family around the holidays since they resided in Texas. With very few exceptions, Christmas would be spent in Ohio with his family and Passover would be spent in NY. Well, that was easy! Thanksgiving was
never discussed at that time since religion was not a factor influencing a decision. In the first few years after they were married, our daughter would come to us, and my son-inlaw would fly to his parents. Five years ago, our wonderful grandson was born and of course now they travel as three thus making Thanksgiving a variable toss-up between families. We have been fortunate so far that NY is a big draw during the holidays but certainly not taken for granted. I’m quite sure that we are not alone when it comes to “sharing” our families and the precious time we get to spend with them, especially when they don’t live close by. But how ironic that it is an issue for the one secular holiday we all celebrate.
For several years, I have been pleased to head up an informal discussion group for families with children who have partners not of the Jewish faith. “Lets Talk About It” allows people to discuss and share their stories, thoughts, concerns and joys with others in a non-judgmental space. This group is facilitated by our wonderful social worker, Shari Baum, LMSW. Our first meeting was on Oct 29 at Beth El Synagogue and we were grateful to have Rabbi Sitkin share some commentary and personal thoughts. Our future meetings in 2026 are Monday Jan 12, Wednesday April 22, and Monday June 15. All meetings are at 7:30pm, in person, in private homes. Topics of discussion will be determined at a later date. Please contact me at LCmoocow@aol.com if you are interested in joining us!
Whether you choose to celebrate Thanksgiving at an interfaith prayer service in your community and/or watching the Macy’s Day parade and a football game on your couch, may it be in good health with the ones you hold dear to your hearts!
Elise Schepp Keruv Committee
Rabbi Schuck, Beth El’s Ambassador at the Holocaust & Human Rights Education Center Annual Benefit on October 30th, celebrated with honorees Ellen and Jerry Kaidanow.
Security Committee
We are grateful to everyone who helped make the High Holidays feel welcoming and secure for all. That includes all the volunteers at Beth El who greeted congregants, the New Rochelle Police who were a presence throughout the Holidays and our own security team who worked endless hours.
Questions? Contact Beth El Security Chair Michael Dorfman at michaeladorfman@aol.com.
First Response Team
We are pleased to announce the formation of our synagogue’s First Response Team dedicated to promoting health, safety, and preparedness in our community.
The committee’s goals include emergency planning and support. We have begun by reviewing and updating all first aid kits in the building and will soon provide Basic Life Support (BLS) training for our faculty and staff.
Through education, readiness, and care, we look forward to creating a healthy and safe environment for all.
Anne Negrin (MD)
Larry Epstein (MD)
Julie Rosenbluth (NP Beth El First Response Team
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 Programming Director Stephanie Lederman at slederman@bethelnr.org join the chesed committee!
You can help provide kosher food for our community in their times of need. In the past, the committee has run special seders, provided shiva meals for those in need, and also those whose health was failing.
Contact Beth El Chesed Co-Chairs Sandy Gruenberg and Joyce Wechsler at gamson36@gmail.com
Beth El Nursery School
The Nursery School is excited to embark on a new initiative, Grand Friends, an Intergenerational program channeling the Jewish value of Dor L’Dor ( From Generation to Generation). This program invites volunteer grand friends to interface with our preschool children on a monthly basis, providing the children with another layer of adult interaction.
Last year, I had an opportunity to embark on a yearlong course of study entitled Ideal18. Through this initiative, the cohort explored intergenerational relationships and their benefits to both populations— seniors and preschoolers—from alleviating seniors’ isolation, to exposing young people to rich life experiences.
Intergenerational practice is inclusive, building on the positive resources that our two populations have to offer each other and those around them. The youngest and the most experienced members of our community flourish together through creative, joyful experiences.
Our goal is to bring awareness to the importance of creating intentional, loving partnerships between all ages. Intentionally collaborating across age groups is not just a nice, collegial thing to do. It helps us flourish. Cohesion and empathy between the generations helps to develop a strong community spirit. Children thrive with stories, attention, an extra lap, an extra person who can radiate warmth and joy.
We hope that our grand friends feel useful by providing a relaxed, unconditional and nonjudgmental presence to
children seeking connection. Our first gathering began with song as each group welcomed the other. Then we blew the shofar as we got ready for Rosh Hashana and reviewed the different sounds that the shofar makes. Our grand friends cut apples for the children and we dipped them in honey and prayed together for a sweet new year. We look forward to celebrating Rosh Chodesh together next month – the first day of a new Hebrew month. We are exploring more frequent opportunities to gather together for play in our classrooms.
Ronnie Becher Director, Beth El Nursery School
Beth El Day Camp
“ My child has grown so much this summer! He is building new friendships, increasing his social skills, and having FUN! ”
“ Everyone is amazing. The camp is so well run and the counselors always seemed happy and willing to do whatever was needed for the kids.”
“ Beth El gave my kid a well-rounded experience with so many awesome classes.”
“ It is a super tightly run, very well-oiled machine.”
“ It was a wonderful summer—my child loved every minute and loved the counselors.”
This summer, our camp families took part in the Foundation for Jewish Camp’s Day Camp Satisfaction Insights Survey. The above comments demonstrate a small fraction of the joy, growth, and discovery we experienced together this past summer at Beth El Day Camp. Whether it was gaining confidence in the pool, exploring new interests in art and music, riding a pony for the first time, or just making new friends, every camper had the chance to shine and grow.
We’re proud to share that 96.7% of families reported being satisfied or extremely satisfied with their overall experience, and an equally strong 96.7% said they are likely or extremely likely to recommend Beth El Day Camp to friends and family.
That kind of enthusiasm speaks volumes and is exactly what fuels our commitment to providing a fun, safe, and growthfilled environment for every child. Our families consistently tell us that what sets Beth El Day Camp apart is our exceptional staff who are caring, attentive, and deeply committed to each camper’s well-being. Our strong staff-to-camper ratios ensure that every child receives the attention they deserve. It is also the little things that leave a lasting impression, like the personalized end of summer camper certificates that recognize each child’s unique contributions and milestones.
Over the past two years, Beth El Day Camp has continued to develop a robust Camper Care Team. Our team, led by a full time Director of Camper Care, consists of a Camp Social Worker, Camp Psychologist, and 1:1 counselors who provide additional support to our campers who need it most. Our camper care team is a huge part of what makes our camp environment safe and conducive to growth. We are so
grateful for the Robert Matthew Klein Fund for Inclusion and Special Needs that makes it possible for us to continue hiring a dedicated camp social worker to help fulfill our mission of ensuring that campers and staff feel supported. We were also able to enhance our staff training by bringing in experts to train counselors to support campers with sensory and behavioral needs. We believe that prioritizing our campers’ well-being is what has led to such high levels of satisfaction with Beth El Day Camp.
We hope you’ll join us for another incredible summer of learning, laughter, and adventure. Early bird enrollment is now open for Summer 2026 (June 29th - August 14th)! Reach out to our Day Camp team at daycamp@bethelnr.org to secure your spot or scan the QR code below to register today.
We also invite you to “Fall in Love with Beth El Day Camp” at our fall Open House on Sunday, November 16th from 3:00pm to 4:30pm. Come meet our staff, explore the campgrounds, be wowed at a magic show, create fun fall crafts, and see what makes Beth El Day Camp so special. Register at bethelnr.org/camp-fall to let us know you’ll be joining us.
Rebecca Guralnik & Zoe Schein Director & Assistant Director, Beth El Day Camp
Department of Youth and Family
Top 5 Highlights from September & October
1. We had a joyful start to our Religious School year! We kicked off our year with music, brunch, and a festive Havdalah and Kehillah—what a wonderful way to begin! It was such a joy to see our community come together in celebration and connection.
2. Our High Holiday celebrations were filled with meaning and energy. For Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, we offered a wide range of engaging programs, thanks to the dedication of our incredible staff and volunteers. We are so grateful to everyone who joined us in celebrating these special moments .
3. As Sukkot approached, we prepared decorations for the Beth El Sukkah, and we are thankful to our parent volunteers who helped hang them for all to enjoy. We received many compliments, including from the New Rochelle mayor .
4. Despite the dreary weather, more than 80 community members joined us for our annual Sukkah Walk! We shared light refreshments, outdoor activities, and wonderful company as we visited the sukkot of the Palefski, Sitkin, and Korinow families. Thank you for opening your sukkot and making this celebration so special.
5. We celebrated Simchat Torah with Mini Hakafot for our Tots, and with our children’s Torah reading for our older children. Kol Hakavod to all of our readers for their enthusiasm and hard work.
Join the Fun at These November and December Events
Youth Programs (K-7th Grades)
• Sunday, November 9th: 4th grade BE Mitzvah Parent Intro meeting at 9:30am
• Sunday, December 7th: 6th grade BE Mitzvah Experience at 10:30am
• Friday, December 12th-Saturday, December 13th: Youth & Family Shabbat for a special Shabbat Dinner, and see our Youth Community take over Shabbat services. We’ll end Shabbat together with special Havdalah events, too
• Thursday, December 18th: Community Hanukkah Candlelighting at 5:45pm
Religious School Programs
• Sunday, November 2nd: Kitah Bet (2nd grade) Mitzvah Day at 10:30am
• Sunday, November 9nd: Kitah Dalet/Kitah Hey (4th/5th grade) Siddur Ceremony at 10:30am
• Sunday, November 23nd: Kitah Alef (1st grade) Mitzvah Day at 10:30am
• Sunday, December 7th: Gan (Kindergarten) Mitzvah Day at 10:30am
• Sunday, December 14th: Kitah Dalet, Kitah Hey, Kitah Vav & Gesher (4th-7th grade) Mitzvah Trip to Willow Towers for a Hanukkah Celebration during Religious School
• Sunday, December 21st: Hanukiyaddah competition during Religious School
Teen Programs (8th-12th Grades)
• Friday, November 7th: Teen Shabbat Dinner at 7:00pm
• Be on the lookout for a Chesed trip around Thanksgiving time
Weekly Shabbat & Holiday Programs
Saturdays at 10:30am. For service locations, visit bethelnr.org/calendar
• Tots Shabbat (Babies-Age 5)
• Mini Minyan (K-2nd grades)
• Junior Minyan (3rd-7th)
Alyssa Berman
Beth El Youth & Family
Kicking off 5786 Together...
Scenes from our first day; making our Sukkah Decorations; Kitah Gimel made their own Sukkah!
Secrets of Our Sanctuary
This is the fifth and final article describing the art in our Sanctuary, which was first used for High Holiday services in 1970. The articles have been 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 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. Thank you, Steven, for enlightening our community with highlights from our Sanctuary’s history this year!
Prior articles in this series described the intent of the designers to focus attention on the Aron Kodesh (the Ark) when entering the Sanctuary. The walls of the Bimah are purposefully bare and the sole piece of art, other than the centerpiece Ark and Neir Tamid (Eternal Light) above it, is the three-legged, sevenbranched Menorah based on a rendering from the Second Temple. The walls of the seating area, however, are covered in 10 spectacular panels, each representing a different Jewish Holiday.
Stanley’s book devotes 14 pages to these panels, describing in detail the process of commissioning the panels, the communications with the artist, and the creation and installation of the 420 fragile ceramic tiles.
At its earliest meetings, the Building Committee resolved that the interior decorations of the new building should be expressive of the brotherhood that binds the Jews of America to the Jews of Israel. To that end, the Committee authorized Edgar Tafel, the Building’s architect, to visit Israel to commission art for the Sanctuary. Stanley provided Mr. Taffel with “a list of some thirty to fifty prominent Israeli artists.”
These articles have not previously referenced Mr. Tafel, a prominent New York City architect who trained for nine years under Frank Lloyd Wright. He previously designed three synagogues and a number of churches, as well as custom homes and other religious buildings.
The Building Committee ultimately commissioned Gdula Ogen, a Jerusalem born ceramicist, who, at the time, was the Chairperson of the Department of Ceramics at the Bezalel School of Art. Prior to emails, FedEx, PDFs, or even faxes, Stanley describes that there were hundreds of cross-Atlantic letters (and some telegrams) between 1968 and October 1970. Stanley was able to visit her studio in June 1970 and described the individual tiles as “magnificent”. Gdula arrived at Beth
El on October 24, 1970 to oversee the two-week “arduous and painstaking” installation of the panels by five experienced tile setters, pursuant to her specific instructions, including the exact type of cement mixture. Of note, that cement mixture has held for the past 55 years and counting.
The holiday murals may be viewed collectively as a ten-part work or individually as a portrayal of the essence and mood of the particular holiday depicted. The design of the panels is nonfigurative, and incorporated in each are appropriate excerpts from the Torah. Siddur, or Mahzor.
[T]here is a flow of color from each panel to its immediate neighbor, with the overall result that a gentle, wavelike color motion is achieved. [T]he artist has created a language of ceramic forms, repeated from panel to panel, so that all the panels speak in a common tongue.
Space limitations do not allow the reproduction of the paragraphs describing each of the panels. The panels depict the artist’s interpretation of Shabbat, Pesach, Shavuot, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Simchat Torah, Hanukkah, Purim and Yom Ha’Atzmaut. Each contains a relevant quote in English. The artist did make one small error in the Shabbat panel, where the word “brethren” is spelled with an extra “e” as “bretheren”. You can find it to the right of the Shabbat Candles and above the Kiddush Cup.
You are encouraged to closely examine these magnificent panels and all of the art described in this series of articles the next time you visit the Sanctuary.
Steven Young Member
Beth El Sisterhood
With gratitude, we celebrate the return of the remaining 24 living hostages to their homes in Israel. The past two years and six days have been horrific for anyone who cares about the State of Israel and the Jewish people. But now, we are able to breathe a little easier and allow ourselves to celebrate the joy of both the holiday and the event.
As we get back to the usual rhythm of our lives, let us all pray for a sustained and meaningful path to peace. Am Yisrael Chai.
Join us for upcoming Sisterhood-hosted events
• Sunday, November 9th: Annual Fall Brunch for Beth El Sisterhood’s Paid-Up Members (bethelnr.org/sisterhood-brunch)
• Wednesday, December 17th: DIY Polymer Hamsas Community Artmaking (bethelnr.org/diy-hamsas)
• Every Thursday: WeCareBlankets (wecaresisterhood@gmail.com)
• March 8: Torah Fund Brunch (It’s not too late to donate to the Torah Fund–Checks made out to Torah Fund can be dropped in Sisterhood’s mailbox in Beth El’s front office. Questions? Email Barbara Horowitz and Dorothy Fox at barbara.w.horowitz@gmail.com.
Beth El Community News
Mazal tov to:
Mazal tov to our longtime member Eunice Kaplan on her move and on the next phase in her life.
Mazal tov to Meri-Jane Rochelson & Joel Mintz on their fiftieth wedding anniversary.
Mazal tov to Helene & Gary Liebstein and Ivy & Norman Roberts on the birth of their granddaughter Hannah Brett Roberts, and to her parents Dana & Brian Roberts.
Mazal tov to Ehud & Amissa Rybak on the bat mitzvah of their daughter, Audrey.
Mazal tov to Jacob Shteingart & Laura Chodes on their aufruf and upcoming wedding, and mazal tov to their parents, Ella & Samuel Shteingart and Becky Chodes and Gary Chodes.
Mazal tov to Ella & Samuel Shteingart on their 30th wedding anniversary.
Mazal tov to Ellen & Jason Wirchin on the naming of their daughter, Arielle Ettie and mazal tov also to big sister Hannah, grandparents, Shelley & Alfred Klein and Miriam & Joel Wirchin, and the extended Klein and Wirchin families.
Mazal tov to Robin Kaphan on the birth of her twin grandchildren Ruby Eva and Noah Paul, and mazal tov also to parents Kimberly and Mark Kaphan.
Mazal tov to Heather and Andrew Gelbard on the birth of their daughter, Sophie Lake, born Friday, September 5th, 2025. Mazal tov also to big brother Mason.
Mazal tov to Naomi Podair and Yoni Freedman on the birth of their daughter, Libby Arielle, born Friday, September 6th, 2025. Mazal tov also to big sister Sadie and big brother Micah.
Mazal tov to Bernie Katz on the birth of another great grand-daughter, Yedida Rebecca Katz.
Mazal tov to Elly & Teddy Zabb on the birth of their great grandson, and to parents Sam & MIchal Amiel, and to grandparents Amy Zabb Amiel & Simon Amiel and Shira & Jeffrey Beer.
Mazal tov to Gail & Steven Goldman on the naming of their granddaughter, Lila Melanie Zelman, and mazal tov also to parents Adina & Zachary Zelman and to grandparents, Susan Zelman and Warren Zelman.
Mazal tov to Sharon & Peter Spenser on the birth of their grandson, Liam Brennan born on Rosh Hashanah. Mazal tov also to parents, Robert & Anna Spenser.
Mazal tov to Elly & Teddy Zabb on the birth of their great grandson Simon Isaac Amiel. Mazal tov also to parents, Sam & Michal Amiel and grandparents, Amy Zabb Amiel & Simon Amiel.
Mazal tov to Ben Claar & Marissa Wolf on their aufruf and upcoming wedding.
Mazal tov also to their parents Lois Kohn-Claar & Gary Claar and Lisa & Daniel Wolf and the extended Claar and Wolf families.
Mazal tov to this year’s Simchat Torah honorees, Barbara Finder, Andrea Fleishaker, Marcia Assor, Floor Gabbaim.
Mazal tov to David & Lindsey Lister on the bar mitzvah of their son, Sam.
Mazal tov to Alan Greenberg on the birth of his granddaughter, Liat Jade Greenberg, and mazal tov also to parents, Lauren & Aaron Greenberg.
Mazal tov to Renee & Ivor Wolk on the engagement of their daughter, Sophia to Sam Forman.
Mazal tov to Vicki & Nate Fisher on their 61st wedding anniversary.
Mazal tov to Alyssa & Michael Sherman on the bar mitzvah of their son, Benjamin, and mazal tov also to Leslie & Dick Ruttenberg on the bar mitzvah of their grandson and to the extended Ruttenberg and Sherman families.
Mazal tov to Jerry & Ellen Kaidanow along with Joseph & Ellen Kaidanow, who were honored at the Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center Gala on October 30th.
Mazal tov to Blair & Evelyn Selber were honored at the Inter-Religious Coalition Gala on October 26th as the recipients of the Yitzhak Rabin Peacemaker Award for their work with refugee resettlement.
Mazal tov to our Day Camp Director Rebecca & Ezra Guralnik on the birth of their daughter, Mia Hannah, and to our Nursery School teacher Sarah Guralnik on the birth of her latest grandchild.
Mazal tov to Rachel & Jason Heiser on the birth of the daughter, Sage Payton and mazal tov also to big brother Max.
Mazal tov to Joseph & Carrie Goldberg on the bar mitzvah of their son, Jonah Goldberg.
Mazal tov to Russell Graf & Abby Aaron on their aufruf and upcoming wedding. Mazal tov also to their parents, Roberta & Jeffrey Graf and Lesley & Mark Aaron and all of their extended families.
A warm Beth El mazal tov to one and all!
Condolences to:
Condolences to Barbara Protass on the loss of her husband, Leon Protass z”l and also to Harlan Protass and Joshua Protass on the loss of their father.
Condolences to Orli Moscowitz (Daniel Urbas) on the loss of her mother, Honey Fox-Moscowitz z”l, and to Aiden, Alexander, and William Moscowitz-Urbas on the loss of their grandmother.
Condolences to our member Joel Mintz (Meri-Jane Rochelson) and Jonathan Mintz (Robin Kramarow) on the loss of their mother, Eleanor Streichler Mintz z”l, to Daniel Mintz (Sarah Allison), Serafima Mintz (Emily Colley), Michael Mintz (JoAnna Kang), Sarah Mintz (Philip Reisen), and Benjamin Mintz (Emily Beker Mintz) on the loss of their grandmother, and to Samuel and Karl Mintz, Nathan and Talia Mintz, and Eamon Reisen on the loss of their greatgrandmother.
Condolences to Alan (Brenda) Guber on the loss of his mother, Florence Guber z”l, to Matthew Guber, Dr. Kenneth Guber (Dr. Charlotte Ching), Brett Alper, Eric Alper, Dr. Amanda
Marinoff Dixit (Atray Dixit), Lauren Marinoff Sherlock (Joe Sherlock), and Samantha Weidhorn on the loss of their grandmother, and to Avery and Quinn Alper on the loss of their great-grandmother.
Condolences to Ted (Alisa) Kesten and Alan Kesten on the loss of their mother, Roslyn Kesten z”l, to Matthew (Valerie) Kesten, Cari (Daniel) Aufricht, Evan (Amanda) Kesten, Dov (Anna) Kesten, and Abbey (Ariel) Rom on the loss of their grandmother, and to Lila, Millie, Charlie, Harry, Kira, Ruby, Jordan, and Emily on the loss of their great-grandmother. Condolences to the LeBowitz and Reis families on the loss of our member, Jerome D. LeBowitz z”l.
Condolences to Robin Seltzer and Nancy Kline on the loss of their mother Yvette Seltzer z”l, and condolences also to Sam (Michele) Sherman, Jake Sherman and Max Kline on the loss of their grandmother.
Condolences to Rabbi Sandy (Ann) Zisser on the loss of his mother, Lola Zisser z”l, and to Solomon and Ren Zisser on the loss of their grandmother.
Condolences to Stanley Liebowitz on the loss of his wife, Anita Glassberg Liebowitz z”l, to Sascha Liebowitz, Hana (Andy Levin) Liebowitz, and Beth Liebowitz on the loss of their mother, and to Ax, Parker, and Brayden on the loss of their 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 September 6th was sponsored by Amissa & Ehud Rybak in honor of the bat mitzvah of their daughter, Audrey.
The kiddush of September 13th was sponsored by Sam & Ella Shteingart in honor of the aufruf and upcoming wedding of Jacob and Laura and also in celebration of their 30th wedding anniversary. The kiddush is also sponsored by Shelley & Fred Klein in honor of the naming of their granddaughter, Arielle Ettie.
The kiddush of October 4th was sponsored by Gail & Steven Goldman in honor of the baby naming of their granddaughter, Lila Melanie Zelman.
The kiddush of October 11th was sponsored by Lois KohnClaar & Gary Claar in honor of the aufruf of Ben Claar and Marissa Wolf.
The kiddush of October 18th was sponsored by David & Lindsey Lister in honor of the bar mitzvah of their son, Sam. The kiddush of October 25th was sponsored by Alyssa & Michael Sherman in honor of the bar mitzvah of their son, Benjamin.
The kiddush of November 1st was sponsored by Joseph & Carrie Goldberg in honor of the bar mitzvah of their son, Jonah. And a contribution was made by Roberta and Jeffrey Graf in honor of the aufruf and upcoming wedding of Russell Graf and Abby Aaron.
Beth El Gives
We will list the B’Yachad donations in the January Bulletin. If you have not yet made your contribution to the B’Yachad Campaign, you can still donate.
General Fund
For the good health of Leah Shandel bat Hana, from Lisa & Perry Jacobs; Mishaberach for Rafael Yerachmiel Ha’levi ben Frieda Sara, from Lorri Liss Levine; Howard Tiszenkel; Ina Bearak Helfand; Pamela & Steven Eliach for Yizkor and Kol Nidrei.
In Honor of:
David & Barbara Horowitz on your 50th wedding anniversary, from Janis Demartini, Kathy Kafer & Jeff Swarz and Andrea Diamond.
Our 50th wedding anniversary, from Meri-Jane Rochelson & Joel Mintz.
The Aufruf and upcoming marriage of Jacob Shteingart & Laura Chodes, from Scott Bonci & Nina Luban.
Eunice Kaplan, from Linda Katz.
The Beth El Synagogue community. We enjoyed spending the holidays at Beth El, from Thea & Ziv Vinokor.
In Memory of:
Richard Kaufman z”l, beloved husband of Roz Kaufman, from David & Fran Klingsberg.
Robert Wechsler z”l, beloved brother of Michael Wechsler, from Adele Ostrager, Meri-Jane Rochelson & Joel Mintz, Perry & Lisa Jacobs, Liz & Eric Alderman and Susan & Michael Meisler.
Howard’s father, Samuel Goldstein z”l, upon his yahrzeit, from Helene and Howard Goldstein.
Eleanor Streichler Mintz z”l, beloved mother of Joel Mintz, from Mindell Patchen.
Joseph Seltzer z”l on his yahrzeit, from Robin Seltzer.
Gladys Orans z”l, beloved mother of Lawrence (Barbara) Orans on her yahrzeit, from Lawrence & Barbara Orans.
Marvin Gorode z”l, beloved father of Barbara (Lawrence) Orans on his yahrzeit, from Lawrence & Barbara Orans.
Vivian Gorode z”l, beloved mother of Barbara (Lawrence) Orans on her yahrzeit, from Lawrence & Barbara Orans.
Reva Rodman Zwang z”l, mother and grandmother, from Toby & Dean Rodman.
Nettie Kamens z”l, mother and grandmother, from Toby & Dean Rodman.
Jerome T. Safer z”l on his yahrzeit, from Adam Safer.
The Robert Matthew Klein Fund for Inclusion and Special Needs
In Honor of:
Shelley & Fred Klein on their 50th wedding anniversary, from Elise & Bob Schepp and Miriam & Joel Wirchin.
Barbara & Marc Lazarus with thanks for your generosity and love, from Judi Schmeidler.
In Memory of:
Robert Wechsler z”l, beloved brother of Michael Wechsler, from Nora Klion Wolloch.
Sandra Levin z”l, beloved sister of Dr. Jason Silverman, from Sondra Goldenberg and Family
Sidney Fein z”l and Ray Fein z”l, beloved parents of Elaine Fein, from Elaine Fein.
The Yvette and Herman Gordon Century Fund for Adult Teaching and Learning
Jason & Lauren Friedlander.
In Honor of:
Judi & Barry Kenter for your friendship and kindness with love, from Dorothy Fox.
In Memory of:
Robert Wechsler z”l, beloved brother of Michael Wechsler, from Jason & Louise Silverman and Dorothy Fox.
Lois Mark z”l, beloved mother of Susan Hollander, from Dorothy Fox.
Richard Kaufman z”l, beloved husband of Roz Kaufman, from Sondra Goldenberg and Family, Jason & Louise Silverman and Dorothy Fox.
Sandy Perez z”l, sister-in-law of Barbara & Hal Shulman, from Jason & Louise Silverman.
Eleanor Streichler Mintz z”l, beloved mother of Joel Mintz, from Meri-Jane Rochelson & Joel Mintz.
Andrew Shapiro Memorial Fund
In Memory of:
Leon Protass z”l, beloved husband of Barbara Protass, from Edgar & Marilyn Lichstein, Mindell Patchen and Judith Shapiro.
Youth & Family Engagement Fund
In Honor of:
Barbara & David Horowitz on their 50th wedding anniversary with gratitude for their friendship and all that they do for our community. Mazal tov, from Laura Lewis.
Shoresh Halev Center for Jewish Music Fund
In Honor of:
Erica & Larry Epstein on their 40th wedding anniversary, from Shari & Marvin Chinitz.
David & Barbara Horowitz on your 50th wedding anniversary, from Shari & Marvin Chinitz.
With thanks to Jack Klebanow and Cantor Gaby for the beautiful music you bring to all of our services, and also in honor of the birth of our grandson Liam, from Sharon & Peter Spenser.
The engagement of Andrew Van Bochove to Taylor Bicchieri, from Bob Van Bochove.
In Memory of:
Robert Wechsler z”l, beloved brother of Michael Wechsler, from Shari & Marvin Chinitz, Marc Suvall & Harriet Kaplan Suvall.
Roslyn Kesten z”l, beloved mother of Ted Kesten, from Marc Suvall & Harriet Kaplan Suvall.
Jeremy Scheinfeld Memorial Fund
In Honor of:
Erica & Larry Epstein on their 40th wedding anniversary, from Gwen & Gary Salmo.
In Memory of:
Robert Wechsler z”l, beloved brother of Michael Wechsler, from David & Geralynn Reifer.
Florence Guber z”l, beloved mother of Alan (Brenda) Guber and grandmother of Matthew and Kenneth, from Joel & Ann Davis.
The Sylvia & Robert Scher Chesed Community Fund
Jeff Mittleman & Susan Eichen Mittleman.
In Honor of:
David & Barbara Horowitz on your 50th wedding anniversary, from Meri-Jane Rochelson & Joel Mintz. The Chesed community for their support during shiva for Liz’s father, Milton Meller z”l, from Liz & Eric Alderman.
Erica & Larry Epstein on their 40th wedding anniversary, from Dorothy Fox.
In Memory of:
Howard Katz z”l, beloved husband of Helene Katz, from Lois Steinberg.
Robert Wechsler z”l, beloved brother of Michael Wechsler, from Phyllis & Harvey Jay and Joseph & Tamar Tait & family.
Endowment Fund
In Memory of:
Robert Wechsler z”l, beloved brother of Michael Wechsler, from Marc & Barbara Klee.
My beloved father, Alfred Fayer z”l, from Carole Strum. Yvette Seltzer z”l, beloved mother of Robin Seltzer, from Marc & Barbara Klee.
THANK YOU!
Yahrzeit Donations
THANK YOU!
Myriam Tamar Batista; Michele Bedell; Zvi & Naomi Ben Zvi; Jane & Steven Berkowitz; Howard E. Berman; Phyllis & Jerome Brown; Sanjiv & Nancy ChhahiraBen & Tamar Davis; Carol & Paul Diament; Noel & Leah Edelson;Erica Epstein; Joan Faier; Marilyn Falow; Vicki & Nate Fisher; Meredith & Joel Gantcher; Helen Geffner; Murray Gelb; Loren & Stephen Gilberg; Jay Goldstein; Lawrence Goldstein; Susan Goldstein and Family; Penny Resnick Graulich; Roberta Greenberg; Jack & Sandy Gruenberg; Jill Hastings & Family; Aaron Hodes & Family; Perry Jacobs; Phyllis & Harvey Jay; Gary & Micki Joseph; Arlene Kamer; Stanley Krieg; Susan & Elliot Lesser; Martin Levitin; Lois Morgenstern; Jay & Janet Neuhaus; Robert Preminger & Pamela Friedman; Patricia GreenwelRojkind; Sharon & George Rozansky; Harriet Ross; Evelyn & Barry Salter; Henrietta Sanford; Henry Scholder; Robin Seltzer; Frances Shahar; Lloyd Sherman;Joyce Silver; Leslie Fishman Snyder; Andrea Spitz; Steven Stern; Gary Trachten; Eric Turkewitz; Rick & Anne Weisbrod; Nora Klion Wolloch.
Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund
Dorothy Fox in honor of her son, Seth’s aliyah; Jay & Barbara Lerman in memory of Robert Wechsler z”l, beloved brother of Michael Wechsler; Janis Demartini in honor of Larry &
Erica Epstein on their 40th wedding anniversary; Janis Demartini in memory of Robert Wechsler z”l, beloved brother of Michael Wechsler with deepest condolences; The Kovenat & Kenig families in honor of Rabbi David Schuck with thanks for all of your warmth and kindness; Mindell Patchen in memory of her beloved husband, Stanley Patchen z”l; Barry & Sarah Josephs in memory of Robert Wechsler z”l, beloved brother of Michael Wechsler; Esther Winik in memory of her dear mother, Pola Alexander z”l on her yahrzeit; Helene Katz in memory of her beloved husband, Howard Katz z”l; Jane Stein in memory of Leon Protass z”l, beloved husband of Barbara Protass; Fred & Judy Bomback in memory of Robert Wechsler z”l, beloved brother of Michael Wechsler; Beth Siegel in memory of Robert Wechsler z”l, beloved brother of Michael Wechsler; Beth Siegel in memory of Eleanor Streichler Mintz z”l, beloved mother of Joel Mintz; Liz & Eric Alderman with thanks for the support and comfort of the entire clergy during shiva, shloshim and every day for Liz’s father, Milton Meller z”l; Susan & Elliot Hollander in memory of Robert Wechsler z”l, beloved brother of Michael Wechsler; Lisa & Dan Culhane in memory of Leon Protass z”l; Helene Katz in honor of David & Barbara Horowitz on their 50th wedding anniversary; Helene Katz in honor of Larry & Erica Epstein on their 40th wedding anniversary; Helene Katz in memory of Robert Wechsler z”l, beloved brother of
Michael Wechsler; Helene Katz in memory of her beloved brother Herbert Weintraub z”l; Marc Wager and Michelle Schoenfeld in honor of Rabbi Sitkin for his support following the loss of their mother and also for officiating at her unveiling; Phyllis Cole in memory of Robert Wechsler z”l, beloved brother of Michael Wechsler; Debra Poliner in memory of Leon Protass z”l, beloved husband of Barbara Protass; Helene Katz in honor of Levi Katz’s Bar Mitzvah, grandson of Rabbi Eugene & Nina Katz, son of Gideon & Stephanie Katz; Naana Cobbina in memory of Robert Wechsler z”l, beloved brother of Michael Wechsler; Naana Cobbina in honor of David & Barbara Horowitz on their 50th wedding anniversary; Naana Cobbina in honor of Gary & Gwen Salmo on their 40th wedding anniversary; Charlotte Yudin; Meri-Jane Rochelson & Joel Mintz with thanks to all the Beth El rabbis, for their kindness and caring as we mourned our mother and mother-in-law, Eleanor Mintz z”l; Elise & Barry Richman with gratitude for Rabbi’s Schuck’s guidance and support with our mother’s unveiling; Marvin & Shari Chinitz in honor of Darren Peister, the master candyman of Beth El, who brings joy to our shul every Shabbat; Iris Sitkin & Barry Yaches in honor of Rabbi Zach Sitkin, our wonderful nephew, who never forgets to call his aunt & uncle throughout the year! And to his wife Lisa, who hosts us for holidays with joy and great food; Mark & Eleanor Walfish in memory of Ann Walfish z”l, mother of Mark Walfish; Jeffrey & Roberta Graf in memory of Berta Graf z”l, my beloved Grandmother, mother of Rudolf Graf; Rita & David Kaufman in memory of Michael W. Kaufman z”l; Ira & Cynthia Shechter in honor of Jacob Shteingart and Laura Chodes’s wedding; Ron Shamah; Rose Community Foundation in memory of Leon Protass z”l; Sharon & Peter Spenser in honor of Sharon’s Rosh Hashanah honor and the birth of their grandson Liam; Janet & Isaiah Seligman in memory of Janet’s beloved brother Robert Kenler z”l; Lisa & Perry Jacobs for the good health of Eliazor ben Hana; Harold & Laura Dworetsky in memory of Martha & Ephraim Dworetsky z”l, Raphael Dworetsky z”l and Saul & Beverly Zelkowitz z”l; Judith & Elliot Schwartz in memory of Judith’s beloved father and sister on their yahrzeits; Judith & Elliot Schwartz for Kol Nidrei.
Cantor’s Discretionary Fund
Dianne Heim in memory of Leon Protass z”l, beloved husband of Barbara Protass; Meri-Jane Rochelson & Joel Mintz with thanks to Cantor Gaby, for her kindness and caring as we mourned our mother and mother-in-law, Eleanor Mintz z”l; Rita & David Kaufman in memory of Michael W. Kaufman z”l.
To Make a Donation
Contact Zoe Raynes zraynes@bethelnr.org (914) 235-2700 ext 228
Minimum donation is $18.
Mail your payment to:
Beth El Synagogue Center
Attn: Zoe Raynes 1324 North Avenue
New Rochelle, NY 10804
Mazal tov Sandy Savitz Gruenberg, Susan Hollander and Fred Claar on being chosen for induction into Westchester County’s Hall of Fame on Friday, December 5, 2025. To get tickets or to place a journal ad congratulating honorees, visit westchesterpartnership.org/hall-of-fame
Top Attorneys of North America Who’s Who Directories
Larchmont, NY —
Rita K. Gilbert
Attorney at Hyman & Gilbert was selected for inclusion in the forthcoming Top Attorneys of North America 2024-2025 edition of The Who’s Who Directories. The accomplishments attained by Ms. Rita K. Gilbert in the field of Legal Services, warrants inclusion into the Top Attorneys of North America.
Admitted to practice law in 1980, Rita K. Gilbert is licensed to practice in New York, Connecticut, and Florida. Her practice areas are exclusively focused on: Estate and trust law, Estate litigation, Matrimonial law, Real estate law, Corporate law and Elder law.
Hyman & Gilbert are dedicated, compassionate attorneys who are there to help their clients get the best legal representation.
Rita received her J.D. from Pace University Law School in 1979, her M.A. from Johns Hopkins University, where she was a Fulbright Scholar in International Studies in 1966, and her A.B. from Hunter College in 1963, cum laude. Rita is a member of the Westchester County Bar Association, former co-chair of the Elder Law section, New York State Bar Association, Westchester Women’s Bar Association, former co-chair of the Matrimonial section for fifteen years and formerly co-chair of the Trusts & Estates section, New York State Women’s Bar Association, former chair of the Tax section, Estate Planning Council of Westchester and National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. Rita is a Martindale-Hubbell AV Peer Review Rated attorney, the highest distinction a lawyer can receive from his or her colleagues.
Rita is also a published author and former chair of the Westchester Community Foundation and the Benjamin N. Cardozo Society of UJA-Federation. She is currently on the Executive Committee of the Justice Brandeis Westchester Law Society. Rita received the Diane White Legal Advocacy Award from the Pace Women’s Justice Center 2010 and the Judge Learned Hand Award from AJC in November 2012. Rita is currently on the Board of the Professional Advisory Council of the Westchester Community Foundation. In her spare time, Rita lectures for a variety of state bar associations and civic organizations.
In Honor of:
Sisterhood Donations
Linda and Steve Newman, on your 50th wedding anniversary from Elise & Bob Schepp
Barbara and David Horowitz, on your 50th wedding anniversary from Elise & Bob Schepp, Rochelle Chaiken, Mindell Patchen, Joyce & Michael Wechsler, Anita & Marc Zoldessy, Eva & Merrick Platzner, Sandy & Jack Gruenberg, Sharon & Peter Spenser
Erica and Larry Epstein, on your 40th wedding anniversary from Elise & Bob Schepp, Rochelle Chaiken, Anita & Marc Zoldessy, Phyllis & Harvey Jay, Eva & Merrick Platzner, Mindell Patchen, Sandy & Jack Gruenberg, Sharon & Peter Spenser
Robin Kaphan, on the birth of your granddaughter from Elise & Bob Schepp
Eunice Kaplan with good wishes in her new home from Phyllis & Harvey Jay
Sisterhood for their support during shivah for their father, Milton Meller from Liz and Eric Alderman
Meri-Jane Rochelson and Joel Mintz on your 50th wedding anniversary from Sandy & Jack Gruenberg, Joyce & Michael Wechsler
Elliot Schwartz on the 60th anniversary of your bar mitzvah from Joyce & Michael Wechsler
Sharon and Peter Spenser on the birth of your new grandchild from Erica & Larry Epstein In Memory of:
Robert Wechsler, beloved brother of Michael Wechsler from Susan & Robert Goldstein, Elise & Bob Schepp, Mindell Patchen, Sandy & Jack Guenberg, Shery & Howard Rosenstein
Eleanor Streichler Mintz, beloved mother of Joel Mintz from Joyce & Michael Wechsler
Michael Kaufman, beloved brother of David Kaufman from Joyce & Michael Wechsler, Rita & David Kaufman.
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/upcoming To sign up to read Torah or Haftorah, visit bethelnr.org/readhaftorah (914) 235-2700
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 250 nursery@bethelnr.org
Anthony Maiolo (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 ext 231
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
SHERY ROSENSTEIN
SHERY ROSENSTEIN
Licensed
Wishing
