From the Rabbi’s Desk
This Is the Season of Memory
This is the season of memory. Yom HaShoahis Holocaust Memorial Day, YomHaZikaronis Israel’s Memorial Day for fallen soldiers and terror victims, and then YomHa'Atzmautis Israel’s Independence Day. They flew by quickly. These days could be simple words on the calendar that pass by without much notice in our busy lives.
Or they might be sacred opportunities to give expression to some of our deepest values.
We use the phrase L’dor Vador, “From One Generation to the Next,” so often it might seem like a cliché. But there are times when we realize the true power in the expression. On a recent
trip to New York, led by our Director of Education and Family Engagement, Dr. Eliyahu Krigel, students visited Ellis Island, the point of entry for so many Eastern European Jewish immigrants. They were also able to locate the names of their personal relatives.
The expressions on the faces pictured below give us that moment of connection. The Jewish journey of decades ago was not simply a part of the nostalgic past. It is also something that we can touch, experiencing it as if we were there. This connection is the key to Jewish identity, and fostering it is our Beth El Mission. How wonderful it would be for all of us to experience L’dor Vador.
Matthew Boyer and Sophia Borer locating their families’ names on Ellis Island, as part of the Beth El groups attending the ADL Never is Now conference.
Reflections from the President
In Hollywood, when the last bit of filming is complete, the director will say “It’s a wrap.” And so, as the final weeks draw near serving as your president, I, too, can look back on numerous scenes from the past two years. Along with our remarkable clergy, staff, lay leaders, and all of you, we have accomplished so much. These are some of the highlights:
Dr. Eliyahu Krigel joined the team to head up SULAM and Family Engagement. He immediately immersed himself in all aspects of Beth El life. Our SULAM enrollment is growing, our Better Together program connects students and seniors in a learning experience, our high school teens, through the MASA program, traveled to New York and Boston to explore their Jewish heritage, our younger
families have celebrated Shabbat together, and the list goes on.
The Board successfully negotiated new contracts with Rabbi Sowalsky and Rabbi Zerin.
We had an amazing weekend of celebration as Cantor Ness finished his tenure and became our Cantor Emeritus.
The High Holidays were made special as Rabbi Zerin, with her musical talent and working closely with our Choir, led warm and inspiring services.
Women’s Network, Men’s Club, and Chai Society offered a host of programs and events with increasing attendance.
We have welcomed new members, many new to the Greater Hartford area.
Enhancements continue to be implemented to ensure everyone’s safety and security.
Beth El and Inclusiveness
Inclusiveness is one of our core values at Beth El. We do everything feasible to allow those with disabilities or special needs to participate in services, classes, and programs. Examples include the synagogue elevator, hearing devices, and periodic special services for those with disabilities. These days, we're also focusing on those with fragrance sensitivities. This represents a significant group which includes Beth El members, staff, and undoubtedly, visitors. Fragrance sensitivity is a very common problem which causes a wide variety of health concerns, e.g., difficulty breathing. Many institutions and businesses, and a growing number of houses of worship, have enacted Fragrance Free policies. In order to assure that affected individuals are able to participate and enjoy Beth El, we request that you avoid wearing fragrances and scented products.
Let'skeeptheairweshare healthyandfragrance-freeforall.
In the days, weeks, and months after October 7th, our community came together and continues to do so. We can only pray that all the hostages will be returned and peace can come to Israel and the Middle East.
But our work is not yet done, and I know that under the leadership of Phil Schulz, incoming president, along with all the officers and trustees, the Beth El community will continue to thrive.
It has been a privilege and an honor to serve as your President. And while my role as the film director may be ending, stay tuned for the sequel. Beth El –CommunityYouCanBelieveIn–there’s so much truth in that tagline.
Wishing all a joyous Shavuot and a wonderful summer.
Hag Sameach, ~LeahKatz
Jun 19
8:30 AM - 4:00
Friday 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM
Family Engagement
We have had an outstanding year of learning and growing at SULAM. Thank you to the SULAM educators, teaching assistants, and parents for all the support. KolHakavod(way to go) to all the SULAM learners! SULAM continues to be a vibrant, educational program where we meet each learner on their own level and then challenge and support them in a way to take that next step in their growth. Our SULAM learners have led with curiosity this year, and we are all so proud of their achievements. Here are a few highlights from our year:
Junior Congregation: On four Shabbat mornings this year, our learners demonstrated their prayer leadership for our youth community. All learners are encouraged to sign up for this opportunity.
Better Together: Thanks to Morah Nancy Rosen for leading the program this year for the 4th and 5th graders at SULAM along with the adult cohort. Better Together is sponsored by the Legacy Heritage Foundation. If you are an adult over 65 years old and would like to participate, please be in touch. We are truly better together!
The Masa Program: On April 27 we had a fantastic trip to Boston with 23 high school students exploring the Jewish connection with the American Revolutionary War. A very special thank you to the Women’s Network for their support of this program. Other programs included Marsha Fisher sharing the inspiring story of her father’s journey on the Kindertransport and Gail Reiner telling us about her father’s role as one of the founding members of Beth El Temple.
Challah My Way: Thank you to our challah bakers who shared and taught their challah recipes with the class. Our master challah bakers have included Rabbi
Ilana Garber, Susan Gold, Jeremy Kempner, Francine Stier, Karen Tuvin, and David Weiner. This program has concentrated on couples where one of the partners did not grow up Jewish; it has been underwritten by the Resnick Family Fund, a named fund within The Endowment Fund of Beth El Temple.
SULAM Community Programming: We have gotten our SULAM learners together with area synagogues on 5 different occasions this year. The 1st and 2nd graders celebrated Chanukah Together. The 3rd and 4th graders enjoyed Tu Bishvat Together at Auerfarm. The 5th and 6th graders built the Old City in Jerusalem out of Legos, and our 7th graders participated in a Taste of JTConnect. We also participated in the Unity Purim Carnival. It has been thrilling to work with other area synagogues as we continue to build bridges and unite as one community.
SULAM Educator Professional Development: Thanks to a generous grant from the Jewish Community Foundation, we were able to gather as a SULAM faculty to learn and grow. Our learning sessions included a workshop on utilizing the Devash magazine with Hadar, as well as two sessions on LGBTQ+ inclusion facilitated by Keshet. Our final session of learning focused on using AI and Hebrew apps in the classroom with our very own SULAM educator Morah Deborah May.
As I conclude my second year in this incredible community, my cup continues to overflow. Thank you so much for your dedication and commitment to the Beth El community. Please stop in and say hello to me this summer. My office door is always open. If I can help support your Jewish journey in any way, please don’t hesitate to be in touch. Wishing you a meaningful, rewarding, and fun summer ahead!
~Dr.EliyahuKrigel
Under the direction of Dan Kulakofsky, young and old gathered to make horseradish from roots grown in our own Jessie’s Garden.
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!
Carnival Spring Convention –HaNer Region
FRIDAY-SUNDAY, MAY 16-18
LOCATION: Camp Ramah in New England REGISTER: www.haner.org/register
Summer of Service
MONDAY-FRIDAY, JUNE 16-20
REGISTER: jtconnect.org/sos
Kick off the summer with this one-week meaningful and social Jewish experience. Teens will develop their own potential for creating real change in the world through social action. Mornings will be spent in partnership with local nonprofit organizations and in the afternoon participants will enjoy fun and recreation together.
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
SULAM – Special Programs
May Sat. 3 Junior Congregation Sun. 4 Community Program, gr. 5 and 6
Sun. 18 Challah My Way Sun. 18 Better Together, gr. 4 and 5
College Connection
On behalf of Beth El, we sent Mishloach Manot to 42 collegeaged young adults this Purim! The packages were sent the week of March 10 and received rave reviews! It’s so wonderful to stay connected and let our kids know we’re thinking of them!
Please know that we include those who may not go to college but pursue a different path post high school.
Stephanie Kudler, Chair collegeconnections@bethelwh.org
The generosity of the Gavens Family College Youth Fund makes this project possible.
Additional thanks to Lesro Industries for providing packaging and shipping.
May Sunday 4, 18* Tuesday 6, 13
SULAM in person
* Final SULAM day for the year
Hallie Kudler and Justin Kudler packing Mishloach Manot.
Challah My Way, with Master Challah Baker Francine Stier
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: Mon, May 26 and Fri, July 4 at 9:00 AM
Ma’ariv Sun–Thu 5:30 PM
NOTE: no evening service on June 2, 3.
See page 7 for Shavuot schedule of Minyan and other services.
Special Shabbat Programs and Events
May
Sat 3 9:30 AM Birthday Shabbat; Junior Congregation
Sat 17 9:30 AM Men’s Club Shabbat
June
Sat 7 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.
Candle & Havdallah Times; plus Havdallah Service Time
Shabbat
Service
May 2-3 7:32 PM 8:31 PM 8:50 PM
May 9-10 7:40 PM 8:39 PM 9:00 PM
May 16-17 7:47 PM
How long is Minyan?
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?
May 23-24 7:54 PM 8:53 PM 9:15 PM
May 30-31 8:00 PM
Jun 6-7
Jun 13-14 8:09 PM 9:07 PM 9:30 PM
Jun 20-21 8:11 PM 9:09 PM 9:30 PM
Jun 27-28 8:12 PM 9:10 PM 9:30 PM 8:05 PM 8:46 PM 9:05 PM 8:58 PM 9:20 PM 9:03 PM 9:25 PM
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.
Worshipping Together - Spring Observances
Counting the Omer
16 Nissan - 5 Sivan ~ April 14 - June 1
We continue to count the 49 days from the second night of Passover to Shavuot with a special blessing, traditionally said at night. This practice of “counting the omer” dates back to the Torah, when the people would bring an omer (sheaf) of grain to the mishkaneach day for the seven weeks between these two festivals. It is based on the verses from Leviticus 23:15-16 that command us to do so.
The Omer counting period is a relatively somber time: Many Jews do not listen to live music or get haircuts; at Beth El, weddings don’t take place in the first part of the Omer period (until Lag Ba’Omer) with a few exceptions. This is because of a plague that wiped out many of the students of Rabbi Akiva, one of the greatest rabbis of the Talmud. We are told that the plague stopped on the 33rd day of the Omer, leading to the holiday of Lag Ba’Omer (see right).
The counting is a simple yet powerful way to mark the passage of time and increase our anticipation of Shavuot. It connects us to the agricultural cycles of our ancestors and the land of Israel and marks the journey from Egypt to Mount Sinai and from slavery to freedom – a journey we are privileged to relive, year after year.
Shavuot – 5-7 Sivan Sunday-Tuesday, June 1-3
Shavuot is a holiday gem and is considered one of the “biggies” in Jewish life. Coming seven weeks (Shavuotis Hebrew for weeks) after the second Passover Seder, Shavuot celebrates two important events: spring’s first harvests (with our ancestors bringing the first and best fruits to the Temple) and the giving of the Torah on Mount Sinai, marking the covenant between God and the Jewish people. It’s a joyous festival that lasts for two days.
During Shavuot we read the beautiful story of Ruth, who, after the death of her husband, followed her also-widowed Jewish mother-in-law, Naomi, back to her homeland of Canaan. This is the origin of the touching speech that begins, whitherthougoes,Iwillgo,wherethoulodges,Iwilllodge. Thypeopleshallbemypeople,thyGodmyGod.
Her steadfast loyalty – and ultimate conversion to Judaism –was rewarded: Ruth’s offspring gave birth to King David. We will read the Book of Ruth during morning services on the 1st day of Shavuot.
Shavuot is also known as the dairy holiday; we eat blintzes or cheesecake. Why dairy? One reason is that the sweetness of Torah is often compared to the sweetness of honey and milk.
Lag Ba’Omer
33rd Day of the Omer
18 Iyar ~ begins Thursday, May 15
Lag Ba’Omer, a minor holiday on the Jewish calendar, is a festive day. The Hebrew letters lamedand gimelwhich make up the acronym “Lag” have the combined numerical value of 33 . This day is an occasion for happiness during an otherwise mournful period (see left).
This day is one of celebration, picnics, bonfires, and outdoor fun. In Israel, people also plant trees. Grab some friends and enjoy!
Shavout Calendar
SUNDAY, JUNE 1
5:30 PM Mincha and Festival Ma’ariv 7:00 PM Tikkun Leil Shavuot at The Emanuel Synagogue 8:01 PM Candle Lighting
MONDAY, JUNE 2
9:30 AM Festival Morning Services
12:00 PM Congregational Kiddush 12:15 PM Festival Mincha
NOeveningservice
9:02 PM Candle Lighting
TUESDAY, JUNE 3
9:30 AM Festival Morning Service, Yizkorrecited
12:00 PM Congregational Kiddush
12:15 PM Festival Mincha Services
NOeveningservice
9:03 PM Havdallah
Another, is that Moses received the Torah –including the laws of kashrut – on Shavuot, but the people had not yet internalized what was and wasn’t allowed. Eating dairy was a safe bet.
Observing Together - Modern Holidays
Yom Yerushalayim – Jerusalem Day 28 Iyar ~ begins Sunday evening, May 25
Celebrating the 1967 reunification of Jerusalem is a national holiday in Israel but obviously one put on the calendar very recently! The rabbis have ruled it to be a day to thank God for the victory in the Six-Day War and for answering the 2,000-year-old prayer of NextYearinJerusalem . Sing Jerusalem songs, watch the “Kotel-cam” (the 24-hour video surveillance of the Western Wall), and start to plan your next trip to Jerusalem!
Lifelong Learning for Adults
Lunch & Learn TUESDAYS 12:00 – 1:00 PM WEEKLY; 6/17 LAST CLASS BEFORE SUMMER BREAK
Talmud Study WEDNESDAYS 10:15 – 11:15 AM WEEKLY
Bible & Breakfast THURSDAYS 8:00 – 9:00 AM WEEKLY
Introduction to Mussar with Rabbi Jim Rosen
THURSDAYS, MAY 1, 15
Final classes in spring series 2:00 PM Zoom and in person
REGISTER: tinyurl.com/MussarSpring25
The Mussar movement is a little-known gem that emphasizes the ethical aspects of Judaism. This Jewish experience was largely destroyed by the Nazis, but today it is enjoying a renaissance as many have discovered that its ideas and techniques provide meaningful pathways in life. Learn more about this spiritual practice and dive into the Jewish world of character building, personal ethics, and communal responsibility.
Dirshuni – Israeli Women's Midrash and the Missing Half of the Jewish Bookshelf with Rabbi Zerin
1ST AND 3RD WEDNESDAYS OF THE MONTH (mostly) MAY 7, 21, JUNE 4, 18
5:30 – 5:55 PM Minyan
6:00 – 7:15 PM Class
COST: no charge
REGISTER: tinyurl.com/Dirshuni5785
QUESTIONS: Michelle Kunzman, 860-729-4201, michellekunzman1@gmail.com
REFRESHMENTS: snacks provided NOTE: Zoom option available SPONSOR: Women's Network
What can we discover if we read between the lines of the Torah? What were the people in the Torah thinking or feeling? What backstories were we never told? Dirshuni is a collection of Midrashim– imaginative interpretations of the Torah –written by modern Israeli women that answer these questions and more. We will read and discuss the texts together. No previous knowledge or background is necessary. All are welcome to these classes; join us for one or more classes. Each stands on its own and enhances the others.
Mitzvot
KNITzvah Group
MONTHLY SUNDAYS, MAY 18
Last meeting until Fall 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 Better Together
We enjoy getting together and welcome interested crafters to join us (regardless of skill levels). Bring whatever you are working on to our meetings, whether or not it is for donation. We have yarn that can be used for making projects to be donated. We also have instructions for making the squares that we put together to make lap robes (particularly useful for people in wheel chairs).
We have given many gifts this year including lap robes, baby blankets, hats, and scarves to Oak Hill School, Newington VA Medical Center, the Village for Children and Families, JCL, Chrysalis, the Bridge, South Park Inn, CT Immigrant and Refugee Coalition, as well as several dozen hats for the IDF, delivered to the Michael Levin Center for Lone Soldiers in Israel! We are happy that our gifts are much appreciated and we appreciate all the beautiful work from our creative KNITzvah group!
Weturnstringsintothings,onestitchatatime tobringwarmthandcaringtoothers!
Dinners at Charter Oak Showcase
SUNDAY, MAY 4 Prepare/cook at Beth El TUES-THURS, MAY 6-8 Serve at Church of the Good Shepherd, 155 Wyllis St, Hartford
CONTACT:
COOK: Adam Schuyler, adam.d.schuyler@gmail.com
SERVE: Myra Kleinman, mwkleinman@outlook.com
NOTE: children 12+ are welcome with an adult 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.
3-Season Opportunities
Jessie’s Community Garden
CONTACT: Andrew Schoolnik, andrewschoolnik@gmail.com, 860-690-0633
Created by members
Michelle and Dane Kostin, Jessie’s Community Garden Foundation grows and donates fresh vegetables to foodbanks throughout Hartford.
Garden Club News
CONTACT: Alison Demarest, 860-810-2084, alisonsupermom@comcast.net; Robin Santiago, 860-490-7661, robin@rsantiagodmd.com
DONATIONS ACCEPTED: gently used garden tools and hoses
We tend to all the plantings that surround our Temple building. We have jobs large and small, including weeding, raking, watering, planting, trimming... Noexperiencenecessary.
Both of these outdoor activities make great b’nei mitzvah projects. Volunteers are invited to come with friends, as a family, or solo.
Recognizing our Volunteers
WN – Shabbat and Women of Valor Award, Bimah Decorations
Rena Citron
Judy Kulakofsky
Lonni Schulz
Hartford Jewish Playwriting Contest at Playhouse on Park Group
Michelle Kunzman
Lonni Schulz
Upcoming Events & Programs
Conversation About Sisterhood and Mental Health, with Betsy Lerner, Author of Shred Sisters
Men’s Club Shabbat
Men's Club Annual Membership Dinner: Presentation by Gwen and Dan Zittoun, The Abigail Zittoun Family Foundation
Jewish Men’s Retreat Recharge, Unwind, Relax!
Beth El Temple Annual Meeting
Beer Night II at the Thomas Hooker Brewery, Bloomfield
THURSDAY, MAY 8 6:00 – 8:00 PM $18, includes light supper; open to community Women’s Network
Tinyurl.com/MentalHealthBET
SATURDAY, MAY 17 9:30 AM To participate: Richard Gutcheon, 860-543-0132, gutcheon@pbiins.com
TUESDAY, MAY 20 6:00 – 8:00 PM Questions: Jeremy Kempner, 401-749-2269, Jeremy.kempner@yahoo.com; tinyurl.com/MCDinner2025
THU-SUN, JUNE 5-8
TUESDAY, JUNE 10 7:00 PM
TUESDAY, JUNE 17 7:00 –10:00 PM
Camp JORI, Kingston, RI
Men’s Club
Nominating Report will be sent separately
$5/MC; $15/nonmembers Men’s Club
Enjoy beer and wine, learn about the brewing process from a great local brewery. Each ticket includes a drink of your choice and pizza. You do not have to be a Men’s Club member to attend! All guests must be 21+. Tickets are limited: tinyurl.com/BeerNightJune25.
Outing to the Hartford Yard Goats
Beth El Softball
SUNDAY MORNINGS, NOW – EARLY FALL 9:30 – 11:30 AM
LOCATION: CIGNA fields (in Bloomfield off Simsbury Rd.)
SUNDAY, AUG. 31 12:00 PM Lunch/ Socializing 1:10 PM Game Time
CAPTAINS: Alan Cetel, 860-232-9515, acjctc@aol.com, Jacob Kovel, 860-651-9366, eaglewars@aol.com Spring is here, the grass is turning green, and it can only mean one thing – time for the Beth El Softball team to come out of hibernation and to start thinking SOFTBALL. Our team is eager to take the field and begin another fun season. Dust off the old mitt, find those cleats, and whip that body into game shape.
We are always looking for new players (with all levels of experience and athletic prowess), as well as veterans, to join our team. Encourage your friends and fellow congregants to give our team a look-see. No long-term commitments are needed. Just come out to play ball when you can.
Men’s Club
Walk Along the Reservoir Path
TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS 9:15 AM
LOCATION: Reservoir on Route 44, Albany Ave; meet at rear parking lot CONTACT: Stu Bernstein, 860-830-1901, scbernste@aol.com
We walk along the reservoir path (2.8 miles) twice per week. All are welcome to join us. After the walk, quite a few walkers get together for coffee in Bishop’s Corner.
(l-r) Arthur Freedman, Mark Rubin, Cody, Stu Bernstein, Eric Gladstein with Emmett Gladstein, Dave Diamond, Jacob Kovel
Life Cycles
Welcome to New Members
Andy & Leah Paller
Ira Rubenzahl
Susan Smith
Congratulations
Congratulations to Dana Opas & Tucker
Whitcomb and Carol & Jonathan Opas on birth of son/grandson Kai Aaron
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.
B’nei Mitzvah Celebrations
Emma Rose Hoffman
May 10, 2025
Emma, child of Monica & Matthew Hoffman of West Hartford, grandchild of Dolores & John Iannini from West Hartford, Carin & Norman Roos from Avon, and Nancy & Jeffrey Hoffman from West Hartford, great-grandchild of Phyllis Hoffman from Palm Beach, FL, is a 7th grader at Kingswood Oxford School. Emma collected sports equipment for Hartford’s Camp Courant and created 2 new programs, including lending to and volunteering at the JCC Jewish Sports Hall of Fame Event last fall.
Joshua Alexander Berman
May 17, 2025
Josh, child of Emily Genser & Martin Berman of West Hartford, sibling of Abigail, grandchild of Patricia & Stuart Genser from West Hartford and Marcia z’’l and Donald z’’l Berman, is a 7th grader at Bristow Middle School. Josh is holding a food drive to collect nonperishable items for the West Hartford Food Pantry.
Mazel Tov! and Appreciation for Sponsoring Shabbat Kiddush
Gottfried Family in honor of Alyce's Baby Naming
Kravet Family for the Women’s Network Shabbat, plus the Sandra L. Kravet Woman of Valor award
Anita & Dennis Levy in honor of their 50th wedding anniversary
Weisberg Family in honor of Jake’s Bar Mitzvah
Of Blessed Memory
Dr. Alvin Berger, brother of Sheila Mark
Evelyn Dvorin
Jerome Gilson
Arnold Greenberg
Gerald Silver, father of David Silver
Rebecca Wajncymer, mother of Claudio Benadiva
Zachary Gilbert
May 24, 2025
Zach, child of Dayna & Brian Gilbert of South Windsor, sibling of Braelyn, grandchild of Myra Efron from Florida, Sharon & Robert Efron from West Hartford, and Bernice & Philip Gilbert from Cromwell, is an 8th grader at Timothy Edwards Middle School. Zach is dedicating time to the South Windsor TOPS program (The Outreach Program for Soccer), working with children and teens with special needs and disabilities.
Ethan Leon Cohen
June 21, 2025
Ethan, child of Magda & Eric Cohen of West Hartford, sibling of Ilana, grandchild of Estelle z”l & Irwin z''l Cohen from Dix Hills, NY, and Lucyna & Janusz Kras from Zamosc, Poland, is a 7th grader at Sedgwick Middle School. Ethan is raising money and collecting pet supplies for the Connecticut Humane Society.
Jocelyn Kate Esposito
June 28, 2025
Jocelyn, child of Phyllis Grable-Esposito & Chris Esposito of West Hartford, sibling of Elora, grandchild of Cecily z’’l & Ernest z’’l Grable from Newton, MA, and Joyce & Rocco Esposito, both of blessed memory, from Branford, is a 7th grader at King Philip Middle School. Jocelyn is packing and sorting food with Connecticut Foodshare to help combat food insecurity in our state.
Supporting Beth El
We deeply appreciate the following Thoughtful Contributions.
This list reflects contributions received and processed through March 21, 2025.
For the next edition of Temple Topics, contributions need to be received in the office by May 21, 2025.
Beautification Fund in Appreciation of John Adelhardt – Sheila Fox Camp Ramah Fund in Memory of Gerald Silver, father of David – Meryl & Mitchell Danitz
Cantor Joseph Ness Concert Fund for the Yahrzeit of Emanoil Braunstein-Florescu, father –Alexandra Flowers
Cemetery Fund for the Yahrzeit of Michael Kulick, husband – Alexandra Flowers
Chai Society Fund in Honor of 80th Birthday of Robert Green – Sharon Gorlick for the Yahrzeit of Nettie & Louis Greenspoon, parents; Salomon Albohair, Holocaust remembrance – Judith & Albert Greenspoon
Education Fund in Appreciation of Dr. Eliyahu Krigel for the bat mitzvah of Sara Goldfarb Brown – Sara Goldfarb Brown & Seth Brown in Honor of 50th wedding anniversary of Anita & Dennis Levy – Rebecca Rumbo, Diane & Ronald Salm
Max Goldfield Fund for the Yahrzeit of Lois Johnson, mother – Carol Johnson Library Fund in Honor of Dr. Steve Stier – the Tuesday Night Study Group
Jewish Continuity Fund in Honor of
Naming of Alyce Marin Gottfried, daughter of Shanna & Josh – Lynn & Joel Malkoff
Joseph Springut Security Fund in Honor of
Birth of Mason Rubin, grandson of Jackie & Dan Cohen – Honey Sue Springut in Memory of
Paul Litman; Gerald Silver, father of David – Honey Sue Springut
Rabbi Rosen’s Discretionary Fund in Appreciation of Rabbi Rosen – Maura Nemirow in Honor of 80th birthday of Robert Green – Merna & Amy Davidson
Steve Stier – Emmy & Steve Fast for the Yahrzeit of Joseph Friend, father – Roberta Buland
M. Richard Bernstein, father – Lori & Douglas Meyerson Beulah Posnak – Rhona & Joel Roffer
Dr. Emanuel Roth, father; Morris Elkind, grandfather – Dr. Shari Roth
Edward Schupack – Beth & Bernie Schilberg
Bonnie Silverman, friend – Francine & Steve Stier
Rabbi Zerin’s Discretionary Fund in Appreciation of Rabbi Zerin – Maura Nemirow for the Yahrzeit of Lillian Friend, mother – Roberta Buland Temple Fund in Honor of
Dr. Steve Stier completing Masechet Brachot – Debbie Prince & David Goldberg
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.
in Memory of
Lily Yontef, daughter of Lori – Lorraine, Tom, Michelle & Bella Barber
Ralph Salm, father of Lisa Fishman –Rachel & Mitchell Marcus
Sara Duker & Matthew Eisenfeld – Bonnie & Jay Roston for the Yahrzeit of Joseph Edelson, uncle; Lillian Gordon, aunt – Shelley & Michael Barker
Gloria & Samuel Bernstein, parents; Louis Asheroff, father – Carolyn & Stu Bernstein
Helen Brown, mother – Barbara & David Brown
Marvin Cremer, husband; Dora Turchin – Marilyn Cremer
Frederick Dannhauser, husband & father – Harriet Dannhauser & family
Lily Eisler, mother – Edith Denes
Jozef Drazek, Holocaust remembrance – Brenda Sutter & Tom Falik
Ruth Gartner, mother – Bill Gartner
David Goldman, husband – Felice Goldman
Marc B. Gorlick, husband – Sharon Gorlick
Gladys L. Franzman, mother; Ruth Green, mother – Barbara & Robert Green
Goldie Spiegel, mother – Cheryl & John Hinze
Dr. Richard E. Hotes, husband – Andrea Hotes
Leo Kaplan, husband – Bilha Kaplan
Dr. Nachman Kacen, father – Eva & Michael Kaplan
Dora Kessler, grandmother; Elaine Evnen, aunt – Abigail Kessler -Hanna
Ron Meier – Deborah & Steve Kleinman
Shirley Gottlieb, aunt – Miriam Lappen
Ida Simon, mother; Martin Lindenberg, father – Andrea & Robert Lindenberg
Benjamin Rubinovitz, father – Lewis Rubinovitz
Bessie Pahuskin, mother – Lillian Rosenberg
Herman Morton Leavitt, grandfather; Jeffrey Alan Willick, cousin – Deborah R. Rosenfeld
Ellen Yush Roisman, mother; Ron Bernstein – Kim & Brian Roth
Dorothy Kellner, mother – Barbara Samberg
Daniel Novarr, brother – Susan & Michael Schenker
Samuel Shapiro, father – Robert Shapiro
Lena Sussman, grandmother – J. Bruce Sussman
Martin Zachariah Vogelhut, father – Lorraine & Farrel Vogelhut
Philip Stoltz, grandfather; Robert Simonovitz, father; Steven Simonovitz, brother; Bertha Wachtel, grandmother; Moses Wachtel, cousin; Rose Newman, aunt; Idell “Libby” Hendler, aunt – Sue & Stuart Wachtel
Gustav Zimmerman, father – Richard Zimmerman
Dorothy & Murray Zweig, parents; Jacob Fundiller, father; Anne Fleishman; Martin Fleishman – Doreen Fundiller-Zweig & Elliot Zweig
Tsedakah/Chesed Fund in Memory of
Michael Miles, father of Allison Bloom – Barbara & David Brown
for the Yahrzeit of Robert N. Kronemer, father – Deborah Kessler
General Unrestricted Endowment Fund in Memory of
Evelyn Dvorin, mother of Larry – Linda & David Hill for the Yahrzeit of Friedel Kacen, mother – Eva & Michael Kaplan
Alter Family Fund in Memory of
Evelyn Dvorin, mother of Larry – Marci & Jonathan Alter
Sharon & Bob Efron Family Fund in Appreciation of Sharon & Bob Efron – Lois Koteen in Honor of
Sharon Efron; Purim – Robin & Rafi Santiago (continues)
Supporting Beth El, cont.
Friends Fund for Members in Need in Appreciation of Steve Shichman – Judy & David Rosenthal in Memory of Ralph Salm, father of Lisa Fishman – Judy & David Rosenthal for the Yahrzeit of Bertha Sundel, aunt – Carol Johnson
Frances Weiner, mother – Patti & Howard Weiner
Mildred, Hyman & Edward Glasband Memorial Fund for the Yahrzeit of Hyman Glasband, father; Edward Glasband, brother – Linda Platt 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
Anna Heineman Memorial Fund for the Yahrzeit of Aaron Anshel, grandfather; David Anshel, uncle; Riva & Lonya Schneerson, aunt & uncle; Baby Girl Schneerson – Francine & Steve Stier
Eleanor Weinberg Jainchill Family Fund for the Yahrzeit of Eleanor Jainchill, mother – Janet Weinberg Gorski
Leah Goldschmidt Katz Endowment Fund in Memory of Ralph Salm, father of Lisa Fishman – Leah Katz for the Yahrzeit of George Denes, father – Marge Swaye
Koteen Family Fund for the Yahrzeit of Sherley & Bernie Koteen, in-laws – Lois Koteen
Richard & Debbie Gutcheon Family Endowment Fund for the Yahrzeit of Annie Chase – Debbie & Richard Gutcheon
Annie Gutcheon Chase, mother – Jason Gutcheon
Sandra L. Kravet Woman of Valor Endowment Fund in Honor of Birth of great-grandson, Austin James Martinez; promotion to Chief of Staff/Executive VP of Engineering at Otis Elevator, grandson Thomas Girard – David Kravet in Memory of Mark Milardo; Dr. Richard Alberti – David Kravet
Diane & Richard Lieberfarb Endowment Fund in Honor of 80th birthday of Robert Green; 75th birthday of Uzi Lior; 80th birthday of brother-in-law, Joseph Silverman – Diane & Rich Lieberfarb
Ludgin Family Endowment Fund in Honor of Special birthday of Nancy Beth Kursman – Karen & Rob Ludgin in Memory of Gary H. Levin – Karen & Rob Ludgin
Laurie & Marshall Shakun Family Fund for the Yahrzeit of Florence & Aaron Shakun, parents; Harry S. Plaut, brother –Laurie & Marshall Shakun
Beth El Temple Wof West Hartford Inc. 2626 Albany Avenue West Hartford, CT 06117 bethelwesthartford.org
Santiago Family Fund in Appreciation of Robin & Rafi Santiago – Cheryl & John Hinze in Memory of Gerald Silver, father of David; Evelyn Dvorin, mother of Larry –Robin & Rafi Santiago for the Yahrzeit of Maurice Newburger, father – Betty & Herb Hoffman Michael & Susan Schenker Endowment Fund in Memory of Mindy Cohen – Susan & Michael Schenker
Dr. Manuel & Evelyn Stier Memorial Fund for the Yahrzeit of Samuel Weinstein, grandfather – Francine & Steve Stier
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
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
Send Life Cycle announcements to: info@bethelwh.org
Women’s Network
Craft Gallery – Under New Management
Jill Jones and Shelley Barker have been doing an awesome job of managing Beth El’s beautiful Craft Gallery for more than a dozen years, with Jill’s tenure going back even further, and they are now looking forward to well-deserved retirement from this labor of love! The new management team will continue to provide the Beth El community, and the entire local Jewish community, with access to a selection of the finest Judaica from artists in Israel and all over the US. Beth El members Lonni Schulz and Rivka Dvorin will take on this responsibility as of July 1, 2025!
Lonni and Rivka are now transitioning into their new roles, working with Jill and Shelley to ensure a seamless transition. They are enthusiastically looking forward to providing personalized service to members of our community who are looking for that special item for a B’nei Mitzvah, wedding or other celebration, or something unique to enhance their observance of Shabbat, Passover, or Chanukah.
Torah Fund 2024-2025
The Craft Gallery is an exceptional asset for Beth El and all proceeds from sales, amounting to thousands of dollars each year, are used by Women’s Network to benefit our entire congregation by funding engaging adult programming, off-site learning experiences for our teens, and specific synagogue needs that come up from time to time.
Please join us in expressing our immense gratitude to Jill and Shelley for their passionate dedication and untold hours of service over the past many years! Also, please welcome Lonni and Rivka as they begin to guide this valuable gem forward into the future!
Contributions to The Torah Fund Campaign of Women's League for Conservative Judaism advance the scholarships and programming at the five institutes of higher education of the Conservative Movement: The Jewish Theological Seminary, The Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies, Schechter Institutes of Jewish Studies, Seminario Rabinico Latioamericano, and Zacharias Frankel College. With the rise in antisemitism and the conflict in Israel, our investment in our future Jewish leaders is more important than ever.
Your contributions are greatly appreciated.
Benefactor
Rena Citron
Rivka Dvorin
Rabbi Ilana Garber
Barbara Green
Jill Jones
Leah Katz
Friends
Marci Alter
Shelley Barker
Vida Barron
Melanie Bazer
Barbara Klau
Jeanne Kleinman
Myra Kleinman
Lois Koteen
Michelle Kunzman
Anita Levy
Jean Meyer
Carolyn Bernstein
Jacalyn Cohen
Naomi Cohen
Bette Jane Diamond
Beth Papermaster
Nancy Rosen
Sharon Royer
Susan Saidel
Susan Samuels
Francine Stier
Marsha Fisher
Eva Kaplan
Stacey Shore
Judyth Singer
If you have not already contributed and would like to do so, please write a check to TORAH FUND, and send to: Jill Epstein Jones, 10 High Point Lane, West Hartford, CT 06107.
BETH EL TEMPLE CRAFT GALLERY
Bar and Bat Mitzvah Wedding Tzedakah Box
Mezuzah Shofar
Chanukah Passover
Shabbat Tallit Kippot Children’s section Games
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, see p. 5 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
Lonni Schulz and Rivka Dvorin (l-r) in the Craft Gallery
Shelley Barker and Jill Jones