From the Rabbis’ Desk
The Journey Begins
Over the years I’ve had the privilege of visiting Israel many times, often leading Beth El trips to the Jewish state.
However, the opportunity to be a part of the Rabbinical Assembly convention, in midDecember held in Jerusalem, stands out in many ways. For we all saw a nation struggling to find its footing after what most consider the most traumatic event in Israeli history – the Hamas attack of October 7, 2023.
This was a time for exploring through connection. I connected with colleagues, including dear friends of Beth El as pictured here.
I also connected with Israelis, seeing their resolve to bring the hostages home. I was able to absorb and process the pain of all that has been lost, but also to find a way to recovery and renewed strength.
I had a feeling that I was witnessing a remarkable event in Jewish history in real time, a time of deep uncertainty and pain. As an Israeli friend put it,
WearelivingonanIslandoftheunknown.ForIsraelis areaskinghowbesttoanalyzesecurityfailures?Howto protectIsraelinabetteranddeeperway?Howtouse thispainfultimeasanopportunitytoresetandrecast relationshipsintheMiddleEastandbeyond?
They are also asking what will become of the Jewish soul? How might it best know hope again?
Through resolve and patience I sensed first steps into a brighter light of possibility in places of healing in music, poetry, and routines of daily life.
Let us be students of this remarkable moment and partners in the rebuilding of the Jewish state and soul.
The journey has only begun.
~JimRosen
Everywhere and at all times, the call for the return of the hostages
Rabbis at prayer – the egalitarian section of HaKotel (the Western Wall)
Honoring the victims at the Nova Music Festival
Beth El Rabbis (present and past) and friends –Jim Rosen, Ilana Garber, and Jennifer Tobenstein
Remembering Hersh Goldberg-Polin, on a building in Jeruselam
Reflections from the President
It’s that time of year when the hours of daylight are short, we’ve cleaned up the last bits of wax from our Chanukah celebrations, a warm bowl of chicken soup hits the spot, and there’s time to catch up on indoor chores. With the start of the new secular year, I couldn’t help but realize that it’s been 25 years since we marked the beginning of the 21st century. I, and many of you, likely recall how concerned we were that our infrastructure would fail because the computers that controlled our daily lives wouldn’t adapt. Everyone, from schools, hospitals, banks, doctor’s offices, and businesses, developed Y2K contingency plans.
Clearly, these past 25 years have been historic. Not only can we connect with people across the globe in an instant, but we can use technology to turn lights on and off, regulate our thermostats, order goods and supplies delivered right to our house, and perform surgery robotically. When the pandemic hit, we didn’t skip a beat as our Smart phones, Zoom, Netflix, and Amazon brought the outside world into our homes. Yet at the same
Membership
time, we have witnessed terrorism and mass shootings. There are wars being fought on many fronts, including dear to our hearts, in Israel. And sadly, we have local neighbors who do not have a warm home to return to and struggle to put food on the table for their families.
So, what can our Beth El community do with all of this? How do we connect our Jewish principles with everyday life? How can we make a difference for ourselves and others?
As last year drew to a close, many of us participated in a Greater Hartford Interfaith Action Alliance (GHIAA) Power Summit. With a thousand people in attendance, churches, synagogues, community organizations, and elected officials joined forces to commit to working together to improve the Greater Hartford region. With goals focused on combating racism, addressing housing needs, gun violence, mental health, and other areas of social justice, supporting the efforts of GHIAA and building community relationships fits perfectly with our core values. As the year ensues, you will have opportunities to learn more.
The Membership Committee is seeking volunteers to deliver welcome bags to new members. CONTACT: Shera Golder, sggolder@gmail.com
Wed, Jan. 1
Office Closed
New Year’s Day Mon, Jan. 20 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Mon, Feb. 17 Presidents’ Day
Beth El partnered once again with Jewish Family Services (JFS) to ensure those in need would have a Thanksgiving dinner for their families. It was wonderful to greet so many of you as you came to drop off turkeys, cash, and checks. Know that your efforts were greatly appreciated. You can continue to donate food and supplies for the JFS Anja Rosenberg Food Pantry by placing items in the drop-off box inside the entrance to our building. More information on how you can help can be found on our website at www.bethelwesthartford.org/ mitzvot/food-pantry
During these upcoming months, our nation has days set aside to honor past leaders, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Martin Luther King, Jr. These men stood for freedom, equality, and making our country a better place. As we head into the New Year, let’s work together as a Beth El community to guide a path into the next 25 years, aimed at helping those in need and erasing the problems that plague today’s world.
~LeahKatz
Beth El is Concerned about the Environment
Did you know that in most cases, scents present in fragranced beauty products are artificial, and represent complex formulations of chemicals? The potential health effects of these chemical cocktails have not been comprehensively studied, but we do know that they adversely affect millions of people. Please avoid wearing fragrances, and scented products, when you come to Beth El.
Family Engagement
Judaism, like other religions, has holy places, holy people, sacred times, and consecrated rituals. What made Judaism different, however, is that it is supremely a religion of holy words.
Words are the building blocks of creation. Using language in a purposeful and positive way has the potential to create and uplift. When words are used negatively, they are a reminder of the imperfections in this world and all the work we need to do to make this world a better place. The reminder Rabbi Sacks illuminates in the quote above, highlights the importance of words and language in Judaism. We use words at SULAM to teach, inspire, and make a difference in the lives of many. As we conclude one semester and start another in January, check out these ongoing highlights of learning together:
Challah My Way
This program is geared towards Beth El members who didn’t grow up Jewish. We present a workshop for couples to learn how to create and sustain a Jewish household and family through the lens of baking challah. Thank you to Karen Tuvin and Jeremy Kempner, our first two challah bakers, for showing the group their special recipes. ChallahMyWayis being unwritten by the Resnick Family Fund, a named fund within The Endowment Fund of Beth El Temple.
Chanukah Menorah at the 50 th Annual Wadsworth Atheneum Festival of Trees and Traditions
~ Rabbi Jonathan Sacks
Project Based Learning Special Programs
Each grade at SULAM has a special project that helps to highlight their learning. This past semester the 3rd graders did a fantastic job with their Siddur project and the 4th/5th graders led Havdallah during the S’MOREHavdallah program. The 6th and 7th graders have also met frequently with their parents to learn more about the B’nei Mitzvah experience and beyond. I continue to be inspired and moved by how much our students know, and their outstanding leadership is truly heartfelt!
SULAM Professional Development
Thank you to all our learners and Better Together participants for making tiles to go on a large Menorah that we displayed at the Wadsworth Atheneum. This is the first time we participated. A very special Todah Rabah to SULAM Educator Morah Rachel Eckman for building the Menorah and Matthew Wentworth for making the signage.
Chanukah Cards for U.S. Soldiers
Thank you SULAM students for making Chanukah cards for U.S. soldiers overseas. These cards helped Jewish soldiers see light in a challenging time. The cards made a difference in the lives of many!
ShaPotluck: Shabbat + Potluck!
We have had 4 potlucks so far this year. We are in the process of planning more for the second semester. The potlucks have been family friendly and a great way for Beth El members to meet and immerse themselves in the Shabbat experience. Thank you to Rachel Eckman for being our host!
Thanks to a grant from the Jewish Community Foundation, we have had two successful professional development workshops for SULAM and West Hartford educators. The first workshop was led by Hadar and was focused on effectively using the Devash magazine in class to teach Torah in a dynamic and fun way. The second session was led by Keshet and was a two-part series on LGBTQ+ Allyship. Our SULAM educators and teaching assistants continue to go above and beyond to help the next generation learn the ways of our tradition. I’m grateful for their commitment and dedication.
Wishing you and your family a healthy and happy secular New Year.
~Dr.EliyahuKrigel
Dr. Harold Moskowitz shares his story and wisdom; see page 9 for more info about Better Together.
Sara Goldfarb Brown and Maria Brown prepare for their upcoming adult Bat Mitzvah. For info about our Adult B’nei Mitzvah program, see page 9.
Vav Bogrim program with parent participation
SULAM Educators and Teaching Assistants
Programs for Teens and Young Adults
United Synagogue Youth
WHUSY, the local chapter of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism's youth movement, serves teens from Beth El Temple and The Emanuel Synagogue. USY offers local and regional programs and conventions, local social and social justice activities, and more!
Neon Dance – Region event
SATURDAY, JANUARY 11, 7:30-10:30 PM
LOCATION: Temple Aliyah, Needham, MA
REGISTER: www.haner.org/register
Winter Shabbat – Local event
SATURDAY, JANUARY 11, 7:30-10:30 PM
LOCATION: The Emanuel Synagogue, 160 Mohegan Dr. REGISTER: tinyurl.com/whusyWinterShabbat
HaNer in Hollywood – Region Winter Convention
FRIDAY-SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7-9
LOCATION: Ahavath Torah Congregation, Stoughton, MA
CONTACT: Marisa and Max Beede, Advisors, whusyadvisor@gmail.com
AGES: grades 6-12
NOTE: cost should not be a barrier for attending; reach out to Marisa and Max about scholarships
College Connection
If you have a child in college, we'd like to stay connected. Chanukah gelt was sent in December and Purim is around the corner!
Please send us their new or updated contact information (name, mailing address for school, and email address).
Stephanie Kudler, Chair collegeconnections@bethelwh.org
The generosity of the Gavens Family College Youth Fund makes this project possible.
Tuesday Night JTConnect at Beth El Temple
TUESDAYS
INFORMATION: www.JTConnect.org
CONTACT: Caroline Poland, Executive Dir, office@jtconnect.org
AGES: grades 8-12
Recognizing our Volunteers
Turkey Drive for JFS
Janel MacDermott,
Judy Rosenthal, co-chairs
Judy Borus
Sharon Efron
Sherri Hammick
Leah Katz
Bill Kleinman
Myra Kleinman
Lois Koteen
Michelle Kunzman
Lily MacDermott*
Will MacDermott*
Richard Order
Amy Raider
David Rosenthal
Dinner at Charter Oak Showcase
Adam Schuyler, co-chair,cooks
Rena Citron
Jamie Hait Cohen
Kim DiBella
Aden Finitsis*
David Finitsis
Mindy Jason
Ari Schuyler*
Evan Schuyler*
Myra Kleinman, Bill Kleinman, co-chairs,servers
Esther Aronson
Stuart Bernstein
Carolyn Bernstein
Sharon Efron
Harley Graime
Ruth Ann Graime
Janel McDermott
Abbey Rothstein*
Dan Rothstein
Jake Rothstein*
Tara Rothstein
Nathan Storch
* the younger generation actively involved!
Kevin McDermott
Lily McDermott*
Will McDermott*
David Rosenthal
Judy Rosenthal
Ricky Swaye
Men’s Club Distinguished Service Award
Jim Berman
Michael Bloom
Dave Diamond
Arthur Freedman
Gerry Garfield
Jacob Kovel
Cindy Krish
Jeff Krish
Marty Melnick
Greg Patchen
David Sabino
Phil Schulz
Bruce Shein
Sharon-Levine Shein
Russ Selzer
Eli Simon
Kitchen Clean-up Project, ongoing!
Myra Kleinman, Michelle Kunzman, co-chairs
Sharon Efron
Caryl Goldberg
Marilyn Grody
Shelley Kamins
Jacob Kovel
Eliyahu Krigel
Cindy Krish
Maura Nemirow
Susan Samuels
Linda Severi
Irwin Singer
Judy Singer
Shabbat Services & Daily Minyan
All services and classes can be accessed directly from the weekly e-blast to members (no login necessary) or by following the links on our website (login required).
Shabbat – Friday
Kabbalat Shabbat 5:45 PM
Shabbat – Saturday
Shacharit, Torah & 9:30 AM
Musaf Services
Children’s Playroom 9:30 AM
Mazel Tots (birth-kindergarten) & 11:00 AM
Shabbat Club (grades 1-5)
Mincha Service, includes Mourner’s Kaddish for both Saturday and Sunday 12:15 PM (or 20 min. after morning service, whichever is later)
Havdallah ZOOM ONLY, SEE CHART BELOW
There are no regular services, in person, on Saturday evenings.
Daily Minyan
Shacharit Sun 8:45 AM Mon–Fri 7:00 AM
NOTE: Jan. 1, Jan 20, Feb 17 9:00 AM
Ma’ariv Sun–Thu 5:30 PM
Candle & Havdallah Times; plus Havdallah Service Time
Shabbat Friday Saturday Candle Havdallah Service
Jan 3-4 4:15 PM 5:14 PM 5:35 PM
Jan 10-11 4:22 PM 5:21 PM 5:40 PM
Jan 17-18 4:30 PM
Special Shabbat Programs and Events
January Sat 4 9:30 AM Birthday Shabbat Fri 10 5:30 PM Shababa Service and Kids meal Tinyurl.com/ShababaJan2025
February Sat 1 9:30 AM Birthday Shabbat
Join Us For Minyan – In Person
Our in-person Minyan allows people to come together for worship, say Mourner’s Kaddish(our members observe 5,300 yahrzeits every year), name a baby, provide support in good and difficult times, and build a lasting connection to those around us. It is an opportunity for prayer, community, music, reflection, and a few moments of quiet in our busy world.
What can I expect at Minyan?
Our clergy and/or a congregant leads and guides the service with English and Hebrew portions. Congregational participation is encouraged at whatever level you feel comfortable.
Do I need to know Hebrew to attend?
No. All of our prayerbooks have English translations on the facing page of every prayer, and transliterations (using English letters to spell out Hebrew words) are provided for some prayers.
How long is Minyan?
Jan 24-25 4:38 PM 5:37 PM 6:00 PM
Jan 31-Feb 1 4:47 PM
Feb 7-8
Feb 14-15 5:05 PM 6:04 PM 6:25 PM
Feb 21-22 5:14 PM 6:13 PM 6:35 PM
Feb 28-Mar 1 5:22 PM 6:21 PM 6:40 PM 4:56 PM 5:29 PM 5:50 PM 5:46 PM 6:05 PM 5:55 PM 6:15 PM
Sun, Tues, Wed, and Fri mornings: 30 minutes Mon. and Thurs. mornings: 40 minutes (when Torah is read)
Sunday through Thursday evenings: 25 minutes
How does Minyan differ from the Shabbat Morning Service?
Daily minyan is much shorter and is a more informal environment. In addition, while some prayers, like the Sh’ma, are the same, others focus on weekday themes, whereas Shabbat is dedicated to celebrating Shabbat.
Israel Engagement Committee
The Jews of Rhodes Robin Santiago
The wandering Jews carries in its name a brief history of our people. There has yet to be a country among the dozens my family has visited that has no Jews. Rhodes is no exception. We fell in love with this beautiful island and even more so because our tour guide, who is not Jewish, is writing a history of the Jews of Rhodes.
Synagogue courtyard where they construct the sukkah
This ancient community is mentioned in the Book of the Maccabees, dating back to the 2nd century BCE. Such travelers and historians as Josephus, Benjamin of Tudela, and Obadiah of Bertinoro, praise this community for its scholarship and education.
their lives and status fluctuated with the whims of the rulers. The current synagogue, KahalKadoshShalom , was built in 1577 under the Ottomans and is the oldest synagogue in Greece.
The Jewish community was known as a milletunder the Ottomans (1522-1912) –indicating it was both a religious minority and a nationality. The KahalKadosh Shalomsynagogue’s beautiful pebble mosaic floor is typical of Rhodes, while its architecture is in the Sephardic style. One unusual feature is the double ehals(Ladino for heikhal , ark) to house the Torah Scrolls.
Holocaust memorial for the Jews of Rhodes located in Martyron Evreon (Square of the Martyred Jews) in the heart of the former Jewish Quarter that was destroyed during WWII bombardments
The community was enlarged by the arrival of Sephardic Jews fleeing Spain after the Expulsion Edict in 1492. This community became the dominant force, superseding the ancient Romaniote Jewish culture of the original Hellenistic Jewish population. Ladino became the dominant local dialect until 1944 when the Jews of Rhodes were deported to Auschwitz. Of the 1,800 Jews of Rhodes, a mere 179 survived.
Turkish Consul Selahettin Uklumen saved some 46 Jews from deportation and is recognized for this heroic act at Yad Vashem.
Rafi reading thru the list of names of those who perished in the Holocaust
Because the ancient Jewish Quarter was adjacent to the port, it was severely damaged in the periodic attacks on the island as it changed hands from the Greeks to the Knights of St. John to the Ottomans.
As happened to so many communities in the Diaspora,
located in the synagogue
Our admired Dr. Rabbi Richard Freund z’’l worked here in Rhodes to help save this once vibrant and ancient culture from oblivion, hosting an exhibit in Hartford in 2015 showcasing this community. It is a privilege to follow in his footsteps. A few families remain in Rhodes, but the majority have dispersed across the globe, many to Israel.
The double ehals (Ladino for heikhal, ark, where the Torah scrolls are kept)
CO-CHAIRS: Sharon Efron, sgredancer@yahoo.com; Robin Santiago, Robin@rsantiagodmd.com
Kahal Kadosh Shalom with its mosaic floor
The mikveh
Upcoming Events & Programs
American Friends of Leket Israel: Talk about Food Rescue and Food Insecurity in Israel
Early Detection, Healthy Life: The Value of Breast Cancer Screening and Awareness with Dr. Julie Gershon, diagnostic radiologist
JFACT Panel Discussion with Michael Bloom, Bob Fishman, and Gary Jones
Temple Trivia Throwdown!
World Wide Wrap
Women's Network Shabbat and Annual Woman of Valor Award
TUESDAY, JAN. 7 7:00 PM Zoom only Israel Engagement Committee
SUNDAY, JAN. 12 12:30 PM No charge; brunch included; open to entire community
MONDAY, JAN. 13 7:00 PM $10 (BET or JHSGH members); $15 others
SATURDAY, JAN. 25 8:00 PM $25, early bird pricing, before 1/9
SUNDAY, FEB. 9 9:00 AM
SATURDAY, APRIL 6
Women’s Network
Men’s Club and Jewish Historical Society
Men’s Club & Women’s Network
Men’s Club and Friends of the IDF
CONTACT: MichelleKunzman1@gmail.com for participation in the service as Torah reader or other aliyah
Beth El Temple of West Hartford Inc.
2626 Albany Avenue West Hartford, CT 06117 bethelwesthartford.org
Jim Rosen, Rabbi JRosen@bethelwh.org
Rachel Zerin, RZerin@bethelwh.org
Associate Rabbi & Interim Cantorial Soloist
Dr. Eliyahu Krigel, EKrigel@bethelwh.org Director of Education and Family Engagement
Rabbi Howard Sowalsky, HSowalsky@bethelwh.org
Chief Operating Officer
Joseph Ness, Cantor Emeritus
Stanley M. Kessler z’’l, Rabbi Emeritus
Lydia Lutt, Marketing@bethelwh.org
Social Media and Marketing Coordinator
Jason Kay, Engagement@bethelwh.org Engagement Coordinator
Leah Katz, President President@bethelwh.org
Deborah R. Rosenfeld, Editor TempleTopics@bethelwh.org
Fax:
Published every two months. Following the deadline schedule below, please submit articles to: TempleTopics@bethelwh.org
Send Life Cycle announcements to: info@bethelwh.org 1/25 for March-April 3/25 for May-June 5/25 for July-August 7/25 for September-October 9/25 for November-December 11/25 for January-February
Lifelong Learning for Adults
Lunch & Learn
Dirshuni
Talmud Study
Bible & Breakfast
TUESDAYS 12:00 – 1:00 PM WEEKLY
WEDNESDAYS 6:00 – 7:15 PM 2/5, 2/19, 3/5, WITH ZOOM OPTION
WEDNESDAYS 10:15 – 11:15 AM WEEKLY
THURSDAYS 8:00 – 9:00 AM WEEKLY
Judaism is About ________ with Rabbi Jim Rosen
WEDNESDAYS, JANUARY 8, 15, AND 22 ZOOM ONLY
7:00 PM
CONTACT: info@bethelwh.org
REGISTRATION REQUIRED: tinyurl.com/JudaismIsAbout
What does it mean to be Jewish? In a time when it is important that we as Jews define who we are and what our Judaism is, Rabbi Rosen leads us in an exploration of Judaism. Judaism is about justice, resilience, spiritual wonder, love, and ____. How would you fill in the blank?
God
is
Here: Exploring Metaphors for the
Divine with Rabbi Debra Cantor and Rabbi Rachel Zerin
THURSDAYS, FEBRUARY AND MARCH (NOT 3/13)
6:00 – 7:30 PM
LOCATION: varies between Beth El and B’nai Tikvoh-Sholom COST: $36 for the series (if cost is a barrier, please reach out) REGISTRATION REQUIRED: tinyurl.com/GodisHere2025
This is exploration of different metaphors for the Divine, all rooted in Jewish tradition. Inspired by Rabbi Toba Spitzer's book "God is Here: Reimagining the Divine," we will think about how language and metaphor shape our experiences and can limit or expand how we experience holiness in our lives.
Mitzvot
KNITzvah Group
MONTHLY SUNDAYS, JANUARY 26, FEBRUARY 23 10:00 – 11:00 AM
CONTACT: BJ and Fran, knitzvahgrp@gmail.com
DELIVERY: let us know If you are planning a trip to Israel and can deliver some hats to IDF lone soldiers
NOTE: usually meets on the same dates as SULAM’s Better Together
In the past few months, our creative KNITzvah knitters and crocheters have donated lapghans, hats, and scarves to several local area services including the Veterans Home and Hospital in Newington, the Village for Children and Families, and the Bridge at Charter Oak Academy. In addition, with the help of a few travelers, we sent more than a dozen hand-knitted hats to Israel for IDF soldiers.
Weturnstringsintothings,onestitchatatime tobringwarmthandcaringtoothers!
Better Together
SUNDAYS, MONTHLY, JAN 26, FEB 23 10:30 – 11:30 AM
CONTACT: ekrigel@bethelwh.org
REGISTRATION REQUIRED: tinyurl.com/Better5785
REFRESHMENTS: bagel breakfast included NOTE: usually meets on the same dates as KNITzvah
SPONSOR: Legacy Heritage Foundation Grant; no fee to participate
This intergenerational program, led by Nancy Rosen, is an opportunity for adults over 65 to learn and build community with students in fourth grade and above.
Adult B'nei Mitzvah Program
CONTACT: ekrigel@bethelwh.org
Do you want to celebrate an adult Bar or Bat Mitzvah? We are gauging interest in forming a cohort of adult B'nei Mitzvah students, and we'd love to hear from you. This program is a 1-2 year commitment (not including summer or holidays) that includes both group and one-on-one study with our clergy/educators.
Dinners at Charter Oak Showcase
RETURNING IN MAY
CONTACT: Myra Kleinman, mwkleinman@outlook.com City School of the Arts offers performance and visual arts classes to over 1,000 underserved Hartford children. We cook and serve 300 dinners to the families (many of whom are food insecure) and their up-and-coming talented artists prior to the nights of their Winter and Spring performances.
New Management Needed for Beth El's Craft Gallery!
Please call to learn more about this opportunity. Jill Jones, 860-922-7300 Shelley Barker, 860-655-8284
In Our Community
Eagle Scout Project
Hall High School senior Sam Shefsky and his friends spent a single Sunday in November repainting all the lines in our parking lot. Sam presented this Eagle Scout Project idea to Rabbi Sowalsky in June, and after months of planning, recruiting volunteers, and gathering supplies, Sam led his crew in this very much needed project.
The equipment used was graciously donated by F&S Electrical Services.
Before and after pictures of the lot taken by
(l-r) Jordan Shefsky, Sam Campbell, Johnathan Przysiecki, Desmond McGloin, Andrew Przysiecki, Alex Bolton, Matthew Connole, Nathan Przysiecki, Sam Shefsky, Anthony Portal, Doug Shefsky, Zander Bos, Jacob Mooney, Heidi-Anne Mooney, Jenn Bricker-Bolton. Not Pictured: Henry Schiesel, Santi Galvez, Bryan Russell, Joy Russell.
David Klau Bench
Thanks to the generosity of members of the Men’s Club, and especially the walkinggroup , this worthy project came to fruition. And thank you to Stu Bernstein and David Diamond for spearheading the fundraising that collected the money needed in record time.
This bench is to memorialize David Klau, a special, long-time leader of Men’s Club. The bench is located on the main road of the reservoir, about two thirds of a mile from the front parking lot, where you can turn left onto the sand/rock section that hugs the water.
Walk Around the Reservoir
TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS 9:15 AM
LOCATION: Reservoir on Route 44, Albany Ave; meet in parking lot CONTACT: Stu Bernstein, 860-232-2012, scbernste@aol.com
An official commemoration of the bench is being planned.
Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs –Connecticut Valley Region
Our member, Jacob Kovel, was installed as the new regional president of Men’s Club at the Region’s Keeper of the Flame event in November. He is a Past President of Beth El’s Men’s Club and has held other civic and synagogue leadership roles.
Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America –Connecticut Region
Our member, Deborah Schatz Rosenfeld, was elected and installed as the region president of Hadassah Connecticut in December. She is a past president of the Greater Hartford chapter and is involved in many projects at Beth El and elsewhere.
Sam’s drone
(l-r) Cody, Eric Gladstein, Steve Rabb, Jacob Kovel, Phil Schulz, Bob Fishman, Arthur Freedman; (seated) Cindy Krish, Sue Fishman
Life Cycles
B’nei Mitzvah Celebrations
Maria Figueroa Brown
January 11, 2025
Maria, wife of Eric Brown, mother of Isabel, Ilana, and Lila, daughter of Maria Figueroa & Oscar Figueroa, of blessed memory, of Puerto Rico, and Barbara & David Brown of West Hartford, is the CEO of West Hartford Lock.
She is currently a board member of the non-profit organization Guilford A Better Chance. Guilford
ABC offers intelligent and talented young women of color from under-represented communities the opportunity to attend a high quality public high school and a preparatory college-track program. This is a cause dear to her heart because she is an alumna of the program.
Sara Goldfarb Brown
January 11, 2025
Sara, wife of Seth Brown, mother of Gabrielle and Rose Goldfarb, stepmom of Ella and Tessa Brown, daughter of Diane z’’l & Mark Kressner of Florida and Barbara & David Brown of West Hartford, is a Vice President & Senior Counsel of Litigation at CVSHealth/Aetna.
Sara relentlessly pursues mitzvah projects in the routine course of her daily life, most recently in continued support of Journey Home’s mission to end homelessness in the greater Hartford region (running home makeovers and moving furniture), and partnering with Child Life at CCMC to develop new, in-person programming for hospitalized children.
Noa Fernanda Fried
January 25, 2025
Noa, child of Ilana Waynik & Jeremy Fried of West Hartford, sibling of Lila and Danya, grandchild of Yvonne & Mark Maynik from Trumbull, Judy Sullivan from West Hartford, and Martin Fried from Arizona, is a 7th grader at King Philip Middle School. Noa is fostering dogs for Dog Star Rescue.
Welcome to New Members
Liz Morgan & Dave Bashein, with Maxwell, Daniel, and Talia
Deborah Lifton & Daniel Gurvich, with Maria
Jyll & Ben Shapiro, with Jacob and Evan Mazel Tov! and Appreciation for Sponsoring Shabbat Kiddush
Friedman Family in honor of Emma’s Bat Mitzvah
Gottfried Family in honor of Avi’s Bar Mitzvah
Miller Family in honor of Max’s Bar Mitzvah
Congratulations
Roberta Buland on becoming a grandmother to Roxy and Jacob Buland, adopted children of her children, Julie & Josh Buland
Shanna & Joshua Gottfried, Janet & Joel Miller and Nancy & Dennis Gottfried on birth of child/ grandchild Alyce Marin
Michelle Kunzman & Steve Szafman on birth of grandchild Aria Melul-Szafman
Jodi & Brett Wasserlauf and Camille & Steve Fish on birth of child/grandchild Talia Rae Wasserlauf
Of Blessed Memory
Loretta Falk, mother of Elisa Wagner
Irving Feldman, grandfather of Adam Berkowitz
Shirley Goldman
Peyton Robyn, granddaughter of Dr. Avram Berger
Elizabeth Scharr, daughter of Marlene Scharr
Michael Scharr, son of Marlene Scharr
David Tulin, brother of Ruth Cion
If you would like to share your Simchas and Sorrows with the Beth El Community, please send your Life Cycle announcements to: info@bethelwh.org.
Challah Baking Class
Rabbi Garber led this group in baking 56 challahs for New MemberWelcomeBags
(l-r) Sharon Shafran, Rita Epstein, Carol Opas, Robin Santiago, Rabbi Ilana Garber, Linda Severi, Alison Gittleman, Shera Golder, Cindy Krish
Supporting Beth El
We deeply appreciate the following Thoughtful Contributions.
This list reflects contributions received and processed through November 19, 2024.
For the next edition of Temple Topics, contributions need to be received in the office by January 21, 2025.
Beautification Fund
in Appreciation of Emmy & Steve Fast – Carolyn & Stu Bernstein
Ellen Sanders-Nirenstein; Dr. David Kruger
– Sheila Fox in Honor of Leah Katz – Marylin & Art Noll
Camp Ramah Fund
in Appreciation of Jason Kay & Susan Gold for leading beautiful & uplifting HH services – Meryl & Mitchell Danitz, Deena SambergShefsky & Doug Shefsky
Cantor Joseph Ness Concert Fund in Memory of Loretta Falk, mother of Elisa Wagner –Jeanne & Dan Kleinman
David Klau, husband of Bobby – Bonnie & Jay Roston
Education Fund in Honor of
Bar mitzvah of Zachary Later, grandson of Karen & Morris – Janice & Sydney Elkin
Dr. Ronald Buckman – Rachel & Mitchell Marcus
Joseph Springut Security Fund in Memory of Paul Zubkoff, father of Lonni Schulz –Honey Sue Springut Wishing a Complete Return to Good Health to Bruce Shein – Honey Sue Springut for the Yahrzeit of Joseph Springut, husband; Arthur Springut, father-in-law – Honey Sue Springut
Rabbi Zerin’s Discretionary Fund in Appreciation of Rabbi Zerin – Naomi & Michael Cohen, Barbara & Bob Green, Debbie & Richard Gutcheon, Marylin & Art Noll
Rabbi Rosen’s Discretionary Fund in Appreciation of
Rabbi Rosen – Janet & Ray Gorski, Carol Starr, Matt Poster, Josh Starr, Jessica Starr Praskin, Barbara & Bob Green, Debbie & Richard Gutcheon, Rachel & Mitchell Marcus, Susan Schmidt, Rachel & Jed Siegal in Honor of
A happy, healthy New Year – Cheri & Arnold Altman
Dr. Meir Friedman – Shelley & Michael Barker
Bar mitzvah of Sam Bloom, son of Allison & Michael – Janel & Kevin MacDermott
Bat mitzvah of daughter, Eva Malitz –Stacey Malitz & Steven Malitz in Memory of
Bernie Cope, husband of Ann – Elizabeth Byer, Cheryl & David Epstein, Barbara & Bob Hurwit, Marylin & Art Noll
David Papermaster, father of Dan – Amy & James Goldman
Joan Bortman, mother of Charna Kaufman
– Jill & Brad Hutensky, Suzanne & Michael Kaplan & family, Marny & Thomas Stevens
Judith Rosenfield, wife of Howard – Meryl & Elliott Rosenberg
Judith Siegal, mother of Jed – Judith & Joel Weisman for the Yahrzeit of Danica Cupurdija, Holocaust remembrance
– Carolyn & Stu Bernstein
J. Kim Buland, husband – Roberta Buland
Joseph Deutsch, father; Kerri Deutsch Maner, sister – Gail & Barry Deutsch
Sybil Simon, mother – Gina Koppel
Selma Spiegler, mother – Liz & Steve Rafalowsky
Shirley Laschever – Diane & Ron Salm
The Temple has had a number of capital projects completed over the last few months which could not have been done without the support of
Sharon & Neil Kochen, The Leshem Family, Judie & Coleman Levy, Rena Citron & Steve Rabb, Ruth & Gil Small, Dorine & Marty Toyen, and The Endowment Fund of Beth El Temple
We are thankful and grateful to you all.
There are two ways to make a donation:
Go to the Beth El website: www.bethelwesthartford. org/giving
Mail it in
Please be sure to include:
the name of the fund
whom you wish to honor/ remember and your relationship to the person
their address for an acknowledgment card
your address/phone/email
Print clearly – or submit the information typed.
Every dollar contributed can and does make a difference and will be acknowledged.
The minimum donation for each listing is $10
Unrestricted funds support the timely needs of Beth El Temple. Restricted funds benefit specific purposes and objectives. For a complete list of funds and any specific designations, please visit our website.
BETH EL TEMPLE CRAFT GALLERY
We bring you a selection of the finest Judaica that is created by artists in Israel and from around the USA. We carry ceremonial items for B’nei Mitzvah and weddings, an array of traditional items for Chanukah, Passover, and Shabbat, as well as a variety of styles of beautiful kippot. We also have a children’s section with gifts and games. We may be small, but we strive to assist you with your individual needs. There is much to see in the gallery so please stop by and browse.
HOURS: Sundays, 9:00 – 11:30AM, when SULAM is in session
APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE:
Jill Jones, 860-922-7300; Shelley Barker, 860-655-8284
VOLUNTEERS: contact Jill to sign up
NOTE: proceeds benefit the synagogue, and we are staffed through the generosity of our volunteers
Early Childhood Fund in Memory of
Joan Bortman, mother of Charna Kaufman
– Cheryl & David Epstein Music Fund in Honor of 50th wedding anniversary of Eva & Michael Kaplan – Naomi & Michael Cohen Taste Of Shabbat in Memory of Bernie Cope, husband of Ann – Robin Budd & Jeffrey Waid
Temple Fund in Appreciation of Rabbi Howard Sowalsky – Francine & Steven Stier
Sandra & Marshall Rulnick – Holly & Jerry Swirsky in Honor of Dan Kulakofsky; Rabbi Rosen; Rabbi Sowalsky – Nina & David Hoff
Birth of Alyce Marin Gottfried, daughter of Shanna & Josh, granddaughter of Nancy & Dennis Gottfried and Janet & Joel Miller – Miriam Lappen, Eileen & Elliott Pollack
Nancy & Rabbi Jim Rosen – Lee Lapuk
Arthur Freedman – Anita & Dennis Levy
Joni Harris & children, Samantha & Ryan
Judith Siegal, mother of Jed – Eileen & Elliott Pollack
Abby Zittoun – Kim & Brian Roth
David Klau, husband of Bobby – Ruth & Gilbert Small
Michael Scharr, son of Marlene – Marilyn Steinmetz
for the Yahrzeit of
Florence & Lester Wasserman, parents; Edith Barker, mother – Shelley & Michael Barker
Sylvia & Walter Cook – Beth Cook
Matilda & Izidore Denes, in-laws; Bandi Denes, Pista Denes – Edith Denes
Louis Haber; Norman Mann – Brenda Sutter & Tom Falik
Thelma & Seymour Gold, parents; Mildred Friedman Lukash, mother; Stephen Friedman, brother – Sandy & Marc Friedman
Samuel Friedman, grandfather – Matthew Friedman
Leo J. Gold, father – Susan & Bob Gold
Alvin Weinberg, father – Janet Gorski
Jack G. Franzman, father; Sydney Green, father – Barbara & Bob Green
Ria Haller, mother – Sherry Haller
Jack A. Goldberg, father; Sarah Hurwitz Weinberg, grandmother – Miriam Lappen
Gloria Finkel, aunt – Peter Levine
CORRECTION: Birth of Seth Benjamin Parish, great-grandson of Harriet & Jerome Gilson – Gilda Liebowitz (we regret the error in the previous issue)
– Patricia Shapiro in Memory of
Joan Bortman, mother of Charna Kaufman
– Judith Bayer, Roberta & Harry Berry, Sandy & Bruce Goldberg, Cathy & Geoffrey Karp, Andrea Lubinger, Ellen & Mark Lescher, Ona & Tom Mastronarde, Beth & Dan Papermaster
Bernie Cope, husband of Ann – Martin Clayman, Compass Wealth Management LLC, Kathryn & Michael Cope, Shelley Goldman, Gayle Jacobs, Mrs. & Dr. Malcolm Levine, Gilda Liebowitz, Jan & Harold Moskowitz, Michaels family, Parven family, Carla & Steve Schwartz, Arleen Wayte
Loretta Falk, mother of Elisa Wagner –Eva & Michael Kaplan
Sheldon Meyer, husband; Helen Soref, mother; Bernard Soref, step-father –Jean Meyer
Ruth Moskowitz, mother – Harold Moskowitz
Sidney Needelman, father – Davida & Steven Needelman
Alice Sigel Kleinberg, mother – Maura Nemirow
Harry Parker, father – Michael Bruce Parker
Mitchel Platt, father – Joel Platt
Muriel Bartnick – Bonnie & Jay Roston
David Cohen, grandfather – Gloria & Mark Rubin
Irving Kellner, father; Louis Samberg, father – Barbara & Ira Samberg
Dorothy F. Shapiro, mother – Patricia & Robert Shapiro
Ruth Krongold, mother; Dr. David Krongold, step-father; Louis A. Cohen, father; Edward Emmanuel Sheldon, father; Sidney O. Raucher, uncle – Cyral & Richard Sheldon & family
Supporting Beth El, cont.
Temple Fund for the Yahrzeit of (cont.)
Edna Turkenitch – Lorraine & Farrel Vogelhut
Frances Barnhardt, cousin; Sam Wilensky, grandfather; Morris Wachtel, grandfather; Henrietta Slonim, aunt; Julio Sternberg, Holocaust remembrance; Dionyz Stein, Holocaust remembrance – Sue & Stuart Wachtel
Max Berkowitz, father; Jennie & Louis Berkowitz, grandparents –Lenore Weisinger
Albert Zern, father – Howard Zern
Nora Zimmerman, mother – Richard Zimmerman
Tsedakah/Chesed Fund in Appreciation of Rabbi Sowalsky – Tara & Dan Rothstein in Honor of Bar mitzvah of Jake Rothstein, son of Tara & Dan – Myra & Bill Kleinman in Memory of
Robert Eisner, brother of Ruth Ann Graime – Myra & Bill Kleinman
Bernie Cope, husband of Ann – Pya & David Seidner
General Unrestricted Endowment Fund in Honor of Steve Rabb & Tom Falik – Judy Borus
Jason Kay’s beautiful Rosh Hashana outdoor services – Wendy Kay in Memory of
Joan Bortman, mother of Charna Kaufman – grandchildren: Barry, Lisa, Evan, Max, Brett, Jay, Stephanie, Hannah, Meagan & Zachary, Julie & Mark Wolman, Karen & David Zetoff
Bernie Cope, husband of Ann – Toby Bartosh, Elyse Schneiderman, Bonnie & Bob Swartz
Paul Zubkoff, father of Lonni Schulz – Lois Koteen
Loretta Falk, mother of Elisa Wagner – Peter Levine
Abby Zittoun – Sharon & Brian Neiberg for the Yahrzeit of Max Goldsmith – Peter Katz
Alter Family Fund in Honor of
Jonathan Alter, master of ceremonies of the Men’s Club Distinguished Service Award dinner – Arnold Greenberg
Bezalel Building Fund in Appreciation of Rabbi Howard Sowalsky – Lois Koteen
Judith & David Borus Family Endowment Fund for the Yahrzeit of Norman Krams, brother; Rosalie Borus, mother-in-law – Judy Borus
Naomi & Michael Cohen Endowment Fund in Appreciation of Naomi’s Aliyah on Shabbat Shuvah – Naomi & Michael Cohen in Honor of 62nd wedding anniversary of Naomi & Michael Cohen – Abbey Kreinik in Memory of David Klau, husband of Bobby – Mindelle Seltzer & Robert Lovinger
Ann & Bernie Cope Endowment Fund in Memory of Bernie Cope, husband of Ann – Sheila Leventhal, Marlene & Sonny Pierce
Dolin-Etscovitz Family Endowment Fund for the Yahrzeit of Irma & Dr. Eli Etscovitz, parents; Saul Dolin, father – Diane & Scott Dolin
Sharon & Bob Efron Family Fund in Memory of
Irving Feldman, grandfather of Adam Berkowitz – Sharon & Bob Efron for the Yahrzeit of Sam Moses, grandfather; Wendy Schulman, friend – Sharon & Bob Efron
Friends Fund for Members in Need in Honor of
Our grandchildren – Alys & Jack Krichavsky in Memory of Judith Siegal, mother of Jed – Joyce & Richard Leibert
Brit Milah Simchat Bat
Garfield Family Fund
Wishing a Complete Return to Good Health to Gerry Garfield – Judy & David Rosenthal
Gloria Goldenberg Music & Lecture Series Endowment Fund in Memory of Loretta Falk, mother of Elisa Wagner – Sharon & Bob Efron
Gottfried Family Endowment Fund in Honor of
Birth of Alyce Marin Gottfried, daughter of Shanna & Josh, granddaughter of Nancy & Dennis Gottfried and Janet & Joel Miller – Lois Koteen, Abbey Kreinik
Richard & Debbie Gutcheon Family Endowment Fund for the Yahrzeit of Irving Feldman; Mildred Gutcheon; Benjamin Gutcheon –Debbie & Richard Gutcheon
Charna & John Kaufman Family Endowment Fund in Memory of Joan Bortman, mother of Charna Kaufman – Lisa & John Behan, Debra & Lewis Cohen, Monica & Lee Gold
Ruth & Harry Kleinman Endowment Fund in Honor of
Special birthday of Dan Kleinman – Myra & Bill Kleinman, Lois Koteen, Diane & Rich Lieberfarb Koteen Family Fund in Honor of Lois Koteen’s chanting of the Yom Kippur Haftorah – Judy & David Rosenthal in Memory of Chuck Koteen, husband of Lois – Myra & Bill Kleinman, Bill Nollman, Lois Saffer, Ann & John Sutton
Sandra L. Kravet Woman of Valor Endowment Fund in Appreciation of Dr. Richard Feifer; Dr. Timothy Holsbeke; Rabbi Bekah Goldman; Rabbi Rosen; Rabbi Zerin – David Kravet in Honor of
The marriage of grandson, Thomas Girard to Nathalie Melanson – David Kravet in Memory of
Sandra L. Kravet – Ina Bendett
The martyrs of October 7; Donald Smith – David Kravet
Kreinik Family Endowment Fund in Appreciation of Abbey Kreinik – Naomi & Michael Cohen for the Yahrzeit of Stephen Kreinik, husband – Abbey Miller Kreinik
Marc S. Levine & Tamara Kagan Levine Family Endowment Fund for the Yahrzeit of Marc Levine, husband – Tamara Kagan Levine
Judie & Coleman Levy Family Fund in Honor of
Coleman Levy being inducted into the Hartford Jewish Sports Hall of Fame – Naomi & Michael Cohen
Diane & Richard Lieberfarb Endowment Fund in Honor of
Susan Gottlieb’s retirement from the Greenberg Center – Diane & Rich Lieberfarb
Papermaster Family Fund in Memory of
David Papermaster, father of Dan; Deena Bernhaut, mother of Beth Papermaster – Debra & Lewis Cohen, Lois Koteen, Abbey Kreinik, the Leshem family (continues)
Supporting Beth El, cont.
Rabb Family Fund in Honor of Steve Rabb receiving the Men’s Club Distinguished Service Award – Abbey Kreinik
Rosen Family Kehillah Kedosha Fund in Honor of 40th birthday of Dani Rosen, son of Nancy & Rabbi Jim Rosen – Judy Borus, Judy & David Rosenthal
Marshall & Sandra Rulnick Endowment Fund in Appreciation of Sandra & Marshall Rulnick – Leah Katz, Susan & Michael Schenker, Barbara Steinfeld in Honor of Happy, healthy New Year – Avra Novarr
Michael & Susan Schenker Endowment Fund in Appreciation of Michael Schenker – Lois Koteen
Laurie & Marshall Shakun Family Fund in Memory of Barbara Garner – Laurie & Marshall Shakun for the Yahrzeit of Michael J. Plaut, father – Laurie & Marshall Shakun
Leigh A. Newman & Gary S. Starr Family Fund for the Yahrzeit of Stefan Aleksandriw, Holocaust remembrance – Leigh Newman & Gary Starr
Sisterhood-Women’s Network Endowment Fund in Honor of Bat mitzvah of daughter, Eva Malitz –Stacey Malitz & Steven Malitz
Clara & Mickey Sowalsky Gabbai Rishon Endowment Fund in Appreciation of Rabbi Howard Sowalsky – Lois Saffer
Sussman Families Fund for the Yahrzeit of Fred Andorsky, father; Edythe & Paul Sussman, parents – Lisa & Bruce Sussman
I. Milton Widem Adult Education Fund for the Yahrzeit of Peter Widem, grandfather – Susan Widem
hhitchcock@jfshar ord.com