January 2025 Digital Scroll Publication

SCROLL JANUARY 2025 KISLEV/TEVET 5785

400 PASADENA AVE S., ST. PETERSBURG 727.347.6136 WWW.TEMPLEBETH-EL.COM

WHAT'S INSIDE

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Articles

Donations & Funds

Rabbi: Amy L. Morrison

Rabbi Emeritus: Michael Torop

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

11 12 19

Anniversaries & Birthdays

Events & Services

Sponsors

President: Mike Shapiro Vice Presidents: David Blum, Marianne Edmonds, Laura Horwitz, Bonnie Lurie, Jason Palmer & Abby Sterensis Treasurer: Jared Abelman Corresponding/Recording Secretary: Betty Gootson Immediate Past Co-Presidents: Lisa Cohen & Stefani Margolis Board of Trustees: Scott Barancik, Josh Bean, Brenda Breslow, Andy Gaunce, Steve Jenkins, Lee Koenig, Frieda Marhee, Jan Miller, Logan Sembler, Allison Solo, Robin Warren & Jake Wollman

Art is All Around Us RABBI AMY L. MORRISON

A

s artist (and observant Jew) Marc Chagall is known to say, “There is no art for art’s sake. The artist must be interested in the entire realm of life.”

Whether you have witnessed the day-break shooting through the magnificently multi-colored Chagall Windows at Hadassah Hospital in Jerusalem, or stood agasp as you are magically drawn into the life like figures floating on the walls in New York City’s Guggenheim Museum, it is clear that this Russian born artist who was ghettoed with his fellow Jews, was deeply moved by the world around him as he utilized multiple genre (sometimes all at once) to express his tattered journey through a world where every single facet of life shaped his art.

The same can be true for each of us. Well, somewhat true. Although I struggle to even draw stickfigures with accuracy, the beauty of the world around us can be expressed by each one of us in magnificently unique forms of art. While some of us find our souls elevated at even a single note of music, others may cling tightly to the natural art found around us as we step outside into the wilderness.

No matter if we experience art through instruments, threads, clay, beads, or spray-paint, art surrounds us in almost every facet of our daily lives—the key is, according to Chagall, to open our minds and curiosities to seek out the real world in EVERY piece of art and, in turn, to learn how we can experience art through our real-world lives as well.

Judaism is much the same. One can come to Shabbat services, Torah study, or Religious School to experience God and a sense of Judaism. But the exact same can be said about attending the Art Festival Beth-El that we host at the end of January. Each artist, each fabulous piece, is a personal exploration in the minds and lives of those who create it. For some of the artists, their art serves as a testimony to the trials and tribulations that they have experienced. While for others, the true joys and celebrations of life are visible for all to see as they walk the exhibits.

But for us, those attending the show, we are blessed to witness these stories and experiences in front of our eyes (and hanging in our congregation) as each artist opens a small window into their sense of the world. And I challenge each one of us, enjoy the art—take it in and feel how it moves you—how it speaks to you—but also, stand in front of these masterpieces and try to learn, really glean, what each artist is saying about the world around us.

There is no art for art’s sake but, it is incumbent upon each individual to dive deeply into the stories of our world that are there to be discovered.

...as the Gates Begin to Open MIKE SHAPIRO PRESIDENT

H

appy Secular New Year! Unlike our Jewish New Year that concludes with the final blast of the shofar and the ominous imagery of the slowly closing gates and hoping we squeeze in before they are locked, our secular New Year begins with celebration combined with hope and optimism for the new year.

As we say goodbye to 2024 and welcome a new beginning, you have an opportunity to explore new experiences and possibilities. Our gates are open and you are welcome to enter.

Join us on a Friday in the Sanctuary or on a Saturday at the Market. In a few weeks our temple will be filled with amazing artwork at Art Festival Beth-El, our most significant fund and friend raiser. Feel free to come to our Sunday Schmooze or experience any of our clubs, programs, or events. As we like to say, “We are a community that likes to gather.”

Our gate is open and you are welcome to enter. I look forward to meeting our new members and connecting with everyone.

Happy New Year!

The Art & The Artist TOVAH FELD COMMUNICATIONS & ENGAGEMENT COORDINATOR

T

he Torah is often compared to a work of art, crafted by God, the ultimate artist. The beauty of the scripture is not only in its profound messages but also in its physical form. The way scribes meticulously draw each Hebrew letter is an art form that demonstrates both reverence and skill.

The words of the Torah serve as a beacon of guidance for the Jewish people. They offer wisdom and direction, helping individuals navigate the complexities of life with faith and understanding. The scripture is a source of spiritual nourishment, providing insights passed down through generations.

Moses, as a prophet, served as the narrator for God, conveying divine messages to the people of Israel. These words have been preserved in the Torah, offering timeless teachings that continue to resonate with believers. The narratives and laws imparted through Moses form the bedrock of Jewish tradition and religious practice.

The mitzvot, or commandments, outlined in the Torah provide specific guidance on how to lead a life of righteousness and service. They emphasize the importance of helping others, fostering community, and living with integrity. By following these commandments, individuals can contribute to the betterment of society and fulfill their spiritual obligations.

Just as an artist interprets the world through their creations, so too do scholars and believers interpret the Torah through study and discussion. This ongoing dialogue around scripture allows for a dynamic understanding of its teachings, ensuring that the Torah remains a living document that continues to inspire and instruct.

How Does Art Represent Your Tribe?

JOSH GAMSON DIRECTOR OF TEEN & YOUTH ENGAGEMENT

O

ne of my favorite parts (among the many) about entering our sanctuary is walking through the main entrance and seeing the beautiful art located on the doors. Many of us pass without a thought, but each time I enter, I stop to reflect at the etched glass in each of the windows of the door.

As you may know, these windows represent the 12 tribes of Israel and the characteristics of each. I often find myself imagining which tribe I could trace my roots back to, although I often change my mind, based on the mindset I am in as I enter each time!

So I encourage you to do the same the next time you enter the sanctuary. Below, I’ve outlined the various tribes, and the reasoning behind their symbols. I hope you find yet another way to connect to Judaism by finding your “people” or “tribe” through art.

Dan: Scales - The tribe of Dan’s role involved upholding justice among the Israelites.

Naphtali: Gazelle (Genesis 49:21) - Symbolizing the speed and agility in battle that the tribe embodies.

Judah: Lion - Jacob compared him to a lion as royalty and leader of the Brothers.

Levi: Priestly Breastplate - His tribe was known to specifically serve as the High Priests of ancient Israel.

Simeon: Towers and Walls of the city of Shechem - The tribe of Simeon was known as warriors, this tower represents the violent story of Simeon’s past involving Shechem (Gen 12:6). Definitely do not read this story with the kids!

Reuben: Mandrake - This symbol was associated with fertility as he was the firstborn of Jacob’s many children (Genesis 30:14).

Benjamin: Wolf - Symbolizing a lonesome yet fierce history of this tribe.

Joseph (and His Sons) Ephraim and Manassah: Palm Tree and Wheat - Symbolizing his time in Egypt, when he interpreted Pharaoh’s dream.

Asher: Olive Tree - A symbol of prosperity and abundance. The land allotted to them in the Bible was particularly fertile and produced a large amount of olive oil.

Gad: Tents - This tribe protected the eastern borders and set up military tents to protect the Israelites.

Zebulun: Ship - They were known for their seafaring activities, primarily focused on trade and shipping, due to their land bordering the Mediterranean Sea. Issachar: Donkey - This tribe was located in a very fertile area and was the namesake of the son who Jacob referred to as a strong, but thoughtless worker of a man.

Our Youngest Beholders TARA O’DONNELL ECC DIRECTOR

W

e have all heard that saying “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder…” What happens when that beholder is young?

Art is a natural activity to support free expression in children. Watching a child be free to manipulate material in an organic setting is one of the most magical experiences adults can witness. Not only is art expressive, art also builds physical, cognitive, social, and emotional skills. The building of those skills is where the magic lies for me.

Have you ever pulled up a seat, grabbed a crayon, and just chatted with a small child as they were creating? In those moments, time almost stands still. The two of you exist, creating side by side. What we do not see in these moments are the opportunities, teachable moments, and meaningful connections we are making with our children.

Art is so much more than a few feathers glued to a piece of construction paper. Art is an outlet that takes you to another world where you can express your thoughts, connect with others, and be free of judgment. Seek this world with your children and learn through the hands of our youngest beholders.

Upcoming Event

Todah Rabah!

Dedications from 11.22.24 to 12.24.24 Cantor Pamela Siskin Memorial Choir Fund from Marlys Meckler in memory of Pamela Siskin, from Phyllis Plotnick

Cynthia Adler Early Childhood Center Fund in memory of Molly Segal, from Susan Burnett

General Donations Fund from Rob Williamson & Gila Meriwether from Viv & John Knapp in memory of Arnold Fogel, from Ellen Fogel in honor of the gracious hospitality extended to CBI Members, from Liz & Greg Sembler in honor of Linda Reimer’s birthday, from Betsy Schwebel

Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund from Thomas & Marcia Noether from Susan Carl-Singleton in memory of Nikki Giovanni, from Roscoe Rossi in memory of Simon Rudofsky, from Edward Rudd in memory of Helen Dee, from Susan Dee

Sembler Library Fund in memory of Ambassador Mel & Betty Sembler, from Clay & Al Battle

Sisterhood Fund in memory of Helene Platt, from Anne Platt in memory of Harold Barishman, from Bruce Barishman & Ted Kavich in honor of Charlie Gray, from Monica Gray

Tekiah Fund in honor of TBE, from Bruce & Chris Meyer in honor of good work, from Mattaniah Jahn

Tzedakah - ORT America from Scott & Rebecca Barancik

Yahrzeit Fund in memory of Dr. Jacob L. Rudd, from Edward Rudd in memory of Sonya Miller, from Marilyn Benjamin in memory of Marion Traiman, from Steve & Bonnie Traiman

Ruth Dikman Adult Education Endowment Fund in memory of Mildred Greene & M. Pat O’Connell, from Bonnie Dikman

WWW.TEMPLEBETH-EL.COM/DONATE

Temple Beth-El offers you many ways to honor the lives and accomplishments of friends and family. When bestowing this honor with a gift to the Temple, you are strengthening the ability of Temple Beth-El to continue to provide a welcoming Reform community for Jewish and interfaith households to experience an uplifting and joyful sense of belonging.

ENDOWMENT FUNDS are an investment to secure the future of Temple Beth-El. Every year, according to the provisions of the donor, five percent of each fund, is allocated for the designated purpose.

L'Dor V'Dor Endowment Fund sustains our community on an ongoing basis and ensures a strong future. Five percent of this fund is allocated to our operating budget each year.

Bertha M. Jerzy Fund

GENERATION TO GENERATION Establish your connection to Temple Beth-El in perpetuity.

Legacy Family Become a member of our Legacy Family by donating a minimum of $5,000 today or later in your will, trust, retirement account or life insurance policy. Your gift will secure the future of our vibrant Reform Jewish home for all ages and passions.

Tree of Life The Tree of Life is a meaningful representation of our congregational family tree, located in our Miller Founders Hall.

The leaves and rocks permanently celebrate the lives, milestones, and achievements of our community and loved ones.

Memorial Plaques By purchasing a memorial plaque for the yahrzeit area in the sanctuary, you are assured that the name of your loved one will be mentioned in perpetuity at the worship service on the anniversary of their death (yahrzeit).

provides help for elderly congregants in need.

Ganz Religious School Fund supports our Raymund Family Sunday School programming.

Irwin & Sonya Miller Family Building Fund ensures that our Building Fund meets its purposes.

Irwin & Sonya Miller Scholarship Fund for religious school and camp scholarships.

Lew Krosner Leadership Fund makes possible the education and training of future leaders of our Temple.

Rabbi Michael Torop Social Justice Fund supports our ongoing commitment to social justice.

Ruth Dikman Adult Education Fund sustains our adult education programming.

Sher Family Endowment for Education, Innovation and Support sustains innovative programs to enrich our community.

Stella Sax Scholar-in-Residence Fund sponsors scholarly programs.

Tauber Family Endowment Fund supports programs to shape leadership qualities in our teen and college age Jewish community.

WWW.TEMPLEBETH-EL.COM/DONATE

NAMED FUNDS

are established by the families or our Board of Directors, to honor or remember members of our community and their enthusiasm for making our Temple a better place.

Cantor Pamela Siskin Memorial Choir Fund

OPERATING FUNDS are designated to subsidize the general operations of the Temple as specified.

General Operating Fund supports the day-to-day operation of our Temple.

s u p p o r t s c h o i r e x p e n s e s & b u il d c o m m u n i t y .

Prayer Book Fund

Cynthia Adler Early Childhood Center Fund

purchases prayer books.

supports capital equipment for the school.

allows our rabbi to enhance our congregational life and respond to members’ needs.

Florence and Morris Lippman Music Fund enriches our music program.

Jack and Mina Jenkins Mitzvah Fund

Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund

Sunday School Special Projects Fund provides additional resources to elevate programming.

provides short-term interest-free loans to Temple members.

Security Fund

Sembler Library Fund

ensures the safety of our community with implemented and enhanced security measures.

enhances our Sembler Family Library.

Seymour Ripps Memorial Day Camp Fund supports Jewish Day Camp scholarships for our children.

Torah Commentary Book Fund purchases Torah Commentaries.

Yahrzeit Fund remembers our loved ones.

Sol Markman Ner Tamid Dues Relief Fund offers dues relief for our members in need.

Youdovin Camp Scholarship Fund provides URJ Camp and Summer program scholarships to our children.

AUXILIARIES Sisterhood Fund supports weekly Shabbat service Onegs, Sunday programming & assists with camp scholarships for youth.

Brotherhood Fund ensures the continuity of its mission to enhance our Temple.

Youth Fund

promotes the development of our youth’s Jewish identity through youth groups.

WWW.TEMPLEBETH-EL.COM/DONATE

JANUARY BIRTHDAYS 1 - Asher Rovin 1 - Marvin Silverstein 1 - Jon Rosenbluth 2 - David Delrahim 2 - Beverly Cohen 3 - Marcie Gottesman 3 - Judith Alstadter 4 - Layla Lantzman 4 - Sofika Getzel 4 - Emily Getzel 5 - Roger Cohen 6 - Ann Bregman-Rascoe 7 - Hannah Davis 8 - Edward Rudd 8 - Ester Milchan 8 - Cheryl Timmins 8 - Will Pardoll 8 - Harriet Easton 8 - Freyda Pardoll 9 - Bonnie Lurie 10 - Meryl Blackman 10 - Joe Sterensis 10 - Sue Froid 11 - Lyle Cowart 11 - Charlie Simmons 12 - Marlena Sinclair 12 - Lois Pardoll 13 - Kit Cohen 14 - Dahlia Barancik 14 - Eleanor Whiteside 14 - Judy Chesis 15 - Pam Sekeres 15 - Bobby Alston

15 - Diane Peltz 15 - Max Rish 16 - Jared Abelman 16 - Courtney Landry 16 - Sylvia Deitche 16 - Robin Corralez 17 - Michelle Cohen 17 - Mike Krassner 19 - Jill Backfield-Weiss 20 - Bruce Nissen 20 - Kate Dalley 21 - Gerri Madenberg 21 - Steve Feldman 21 - Pam Nobel 21 - Jedidiah Latham 22 - Guy DiBenedetto 24 - Lisa Cohen 24 - Charlene Wygodski 25 - Cathy Vogel 25 - Debbie Wang 25 - Randi Nash-Ortiz 25 - Diane Salz 25 - Aaron Shapiro 26 - Susan Blatt 26 - Meredith Gaunce 26 - Luke Speizer 27 - Margie Jacobs 29 - Reid Nicholson 29 - Shara Reimer 30 - Alexa Silverman 30 - Barbara "Bee" Blum 31 - Julia Stepelton 31 - Liana Nissen

MAY THEIR MEMORY FOREVER BE A BLESSING AND A LESSON...

Dr. Edward J. Lurie - December 17, 2024 Husband of Vivian Lurie, Father of Michael (Bonnie) Lurie and Sara Beth (Seth) Watson, Grandfather of Julianne, Avery, and Josephine Lurie, & Leo and Sydney Watson

JANAURY ANNIVERSARIES 3 - Gerald & Shane Davis 5 - Debra & Tedd Drattell 5 - Matthew & Toni David 11 - Aaron & Nicole Shapiro 13 - Scott & Tamar Campion 16 - Matthew & Elana Gootson 18 - Joseph & Jaclyn Weber 18 - Guy & Alena Dibenedetto 26 - Richard & Rita Gram 30 - Sidney & Susan Blatt

WWW.TEMPLEBETH-EL.COM/DONATE

We are a welcoming community for Reform Jewish & interfaith households to experience an uplifting & joyful sense of belonging.

Temple Beth-El 400 Pasadena Ave S St. Petersburg, FL 33707 info@TempleBeth-El.com | (727) 347-6136 www.TempleBeth-El.com