w w w. b e t h e l - o m a h a . o r g • Tevet-Sh’vat 5 7 7 5 • January 2015 • 402-492-8550 B’Ruchim HaBa’im – Welcome to Our New Members! We offer a hearty welcome to the newest members of our Beth El family: • Rick & Darice Bailer • Howard Borden • Dan & Angela Brodsky and their daughters Micah & Sasha • Ryan & Lisa Cooper and their son Henry • Ashley Corcoran Darice & Rick Bailer • Irwin Goldenberg • Corey Green • Scherry (Chickie) Linsman • Samuel & Alice Meisels • Marlene Parilman • Allen & Maxine Passer • Tommy & Lauren Tam and their children Hunter, Lily, Ilana & Sadie • Bob & Rita Yaffe Howard Borden Lisa & Ryan Cooper with son Henry Lauren & Tommy Tam with children Lily, Ilana, Hunter and Sadie Rita & Bob Yaffe 23 Years Ends on the 23rd Jeanne Shechet, longtime Beth El Synagogue school secretary, announced her retirement last month. After 23 years as the school’s secretary, her last day at the synagogue was December 23. Jeanne began her career at Beth El with Rabbi Drazen after the kosher butcher shop, “The Kosher Pickle,” at 132nd and Center that she owned with her husband, closed. In between, she worked at the Jewish Press for a short time, with Editor Morris Maline and Assistant Editor Judy Marburg. Jeanne’s office was in the original Beth Israel at 52nd Street and Hamilton, when the school was called UTTO, United Talmud Torah Omaha, and it was a combined school with Beth Israel Synagogue. “The students met at the JCC, so I never saw them,” she recalled. “After just a year, the school wing was built on 144th and Dodge, and staff and students could be (continued on page 4) We Thank Our Yad Squad The following members read Torah/ Haftarah in November & December: Lech-Lecha • Hazzan Michael Krausman • Sharon Brodkey • Caryn Scheer • Steve Riekes • Ben Shapiro • Heather Kelln • Haftarah - Laurel Krausman Drop-off: Saturday, January 10 - 10:00 a.m. Pick-up: Sunday, January 11 - 9:45 a.m. Cost: $20 per person Vayera • Yonatan Feldstern • Roni Reiter-Palmon • Steve Riekes • Hazzan Michael Krausman • Sally Zipursky • Haftarah - Leigh Emas Chayei Sara • Linda Saltzman • Rosalie Saltzman • Ari Saltzman • Richard Young • Yonatan Feldstern • Haftarah - Ari Saltzman Toldot • Marty Shukert • Glen Fineman • Alan Shulewitz • Yonatan Feldstern • Jay Gordman • Lillian Cohen • Haftarah - Patty Nogg Vayetzei • Rabbi Steven Abraham • Ben Shapiro • Marty Shukert • Yonatan Feldstern • Haftarah - Marty Shukert Vayishlach • Glen Fineman • Ben Shapiro • Gabby Witkowski • Zach Krausman • Marty Shukert • Yonatan Feldstern • Haftarah - Nancy Rips Vayeshev • Hazzan Michael Krausman • Jay Gordman • Sharon Brodkey • Alan Shulewitz • Zev Krausman • Janie Murow • Heather Kelln • Haftarah - Caryn Scheer Students(in(grades(3.7,(Madrechim(and(USY’ers(and(all(Jewish(students(in( Omaha(are(invited(to(join(us(for(a(day(of(wonderful(Shabbat(activities.(Spend( time(with(your(friends(and(enjoy(a(special(trip(to(the(UNO(Planetarium.( There(will(be(no(BESTT(for(students(in(grades(3.7(on(January(11. Register(by(January(2(online(at(www.bethel5omaha.org.( Learn to Play Shanghai at Beth El Card players and newbies alike recently had a chance to learn the game of Shanghai during a relaxing afternoon at Beth El Synagogue. Organized by Phyllis Wasserman at the urging of a few congregants, people in attendance soon found that the game of Shanghai is easy to learn and fun to play. Phyllis provided a packet of simple rules, engaged seasoned shanghai players as teachers and even provided mechanical card shufflers at each table. If you would like to learn to play but weren’t able to attend the first class or if you know how to play but would like a bit more practice, you’ll have another chance. Lessons will again be offered on Thursday, January 15 at 1:00 p.m. at Beth El. Snacks and card tables will be set up, rules and teachers will be available; all we need is YOU! RSVP online at www.bethel-omaha.org or contact Phyllis at [email protected] so we know to expect you. Plan to enjoy a relaxing afternoon of playing, practicing or learning. Soon you’ll be ready to play in a group or start your own. Beth El Appreciates Our Patron Members • • • • Mrs. Sandra Belgrade Mrs. Frances Blumkin Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Blumkin Mr. & Mrs. Norman Denenberg Miketz • Drs. Steven & Tiffany • Steve Riekes Denenberg • Jacob Spivack • Mr. & Mrs. Gary Epstein • Yonatan Feldstern • Mr. & Mrs. Richard Fellman • Ben Shapiro • Marty Shukert • Dr. & Mrs. David Finkle • Ethan Spivack • Drs. Harris & Jan Frankel • Haftarah - Ethan Spivack • Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Friedlander • Mr. & Mrs. Howard Friedman Vayigash • Marty Shukert • Mr. & Mrs. Sanford Friedman • Haftarah - Marty Shukert • Mr. & Mrs. Steven Friedman Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org 2 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Mrs. Carol Gendler Mr. Donald Goldstein Mrs. Shirley Goldstein Mr. & Mrs. Jerome Gordman Dr. & Mrs. Bruce Gutnik Mr. & Mrs. Arnold Joffe Mr. & Mrs. Howard Kaslow Mr. & Mrs. Howard Kooper Mr. & Mrs. Harold Mann Mr. & Mrs. Allan Murow Mr. Allan Noddle Mr. & Mrs. Steven Nogg Mr. & Mrs. Alan Parsow Dr. & Mrs. Eric Phillips Mr. & Mrs. Steve Pitlor Support the Buy Beth • • • • • • • • • • • Mr. & Mrs. Carl Riekes Mr. & Mrs. Steve Riekes Dr. & Mrs. Joel Schlessinger Mr. & Mrs. Natan Schwalb Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Shackman Mr. Steven Silver Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Silverman Mr. & Mrs. Irving Veitzer Drs. Isaac & Susan Witkowski Mr. & Mrs. James Zipursky Anonymous For more information about how you can become a patron member, contact Larry DeBruin. El Program Shabbat Shira: the Sabbath of Song by Hazzan Michael Krausman One of the most exciting parts of our annual cycle of Torah reading is the joyous Song of the Sea or, Shirat Ha Yam. Contained within the weekly portion of B’Shalach, which recounts the movements of the newly freed Israelites as they begin to make their way to the Promised Land, the Shirat Ha Yam occurs immediately following the dramatic crossing of the Red Sea. The song includes an account of how Miriam, Moses’ sister, leads the people in dance celebrating the successful crossing and the vanquishing of Pharaoh’s pursuing army. Overflowing with ecstasy and gratitude, the children of Israel instinctively turn to song to express their deep emotions. It has been said that this stirring poetry is the first example of a prayer or hymn whose sole purpose is to praise God rather than petition God for help or intervention. Shirat Ha Yam is recorded in the Torah in a unique poetic language and style. The power of this hymn struck the framers of our liturgy so much that this ancient prayer is repeated each day in our morning service. Examples such as Mi Chamocha (Who is like unto thee O Lord?) are found in both the evening and morning prayers. The Shabbat on which the weekly portion of B’Shalach is read is known as Shabbat Shira: the Sabbath of Song. This year, Shabbat Shira will occur on January 31. Shirat Ha Yam is chanted by interspersing the beautifully melodic Cantillation of the Song of Songs with the regular Torah Cantillation melody. The Song of the Sea is not the only special poetry recited on Shabbat Shira. The Haftara for that Shabbat contains the song of Deborah which describes how the heroine Yael saves the Hebrews by slaying the mighty despot Sisera with a tent pin (you will have to come to Shul to get the whole story). Shabbat Shira is a time to reflect on the important role that music and song plays in our lives as Jews. Not only is music the preferred Sisterhood Plans Special Shabbat Celebration To take part in the service, sign up online, or contact Lisa at [email protected] or M’Lee at [email protected]. They will find a place for you! From Kol Nidre to Yiddish lullabies to Ladino love songs to the modern sounds of Israeli rock and roll, Jewish music is a vital part of the Jewish soul. Thus it is fitting that Shabbat Shira, the Shabbat on which we read one of the earliest and most striking incidence of musical expression, be dedicated to Jewish music. Please come and pray with us on Friday night, January 30, the eve of Shabbat Shira. Our regular Friday Night service will be enhanced by a special vocal group who will be adding their voices to ours in joyous and meaningful prayer. Hazzan Michael Krausman Join Us for Shabbat Shira Our annual Sisterhood Shabbat is scheduled for Saturday, January 31, at 9:30 a.m., and we hope you’ll join us for this special morning. The service will be led by the women of Beth El, and chairmen Lisa Lieb and M'Lee Hasslinger invite everyone to participate. Whether you feel comfortable participating in English or Hebrew, if you would like an aliyah, or even if you just show up to support the fantastic women of Beth El, join us as we celebrate the vital role women play in Judaism. Services will be followed by a light Kiddush lunch. mechanism for expressing our deepest emotions, but it is the vehicle which transports prayers from our hearts to the gates of heaven. So many of our best and most precious memories are associated with and cradled within our musical heritage. Jewish music can even be used to enhance the atmosphere of our homes. Friday, January 30 6:00 pm Kabbalat Shabbat Service enhanced by special music featuring our Shabbat Shira Singers Have a Cup of Coffee with God Saturday, January 17, 9:30 a.m. Join Hazzan Michael Krausman for another session of this innovative learning service. The coffeepot will be on and the sweets will be plentiful. Grab a nosh, fill your cup and satisfy your appetite for knowledge and spiritual growth as we daven and learn together. Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org 3 Support the Buy Beth El Program New Roles Enhance Support Staff Team The professional staff at Beth El has recently seen some important changes. These new roles will enhance and improve the synagogue experience each and every time congregants contact the office or are present in the building. 23 Years Ends on the 23rd (continued from page 1) together in one place.” Soon after, the school was renamed BESTT – Beth El Synagogue Talmud Torah. Scott Littky, past Beth El education director and now program director at Temple Israel, remembered working with Jeanne. “I was always fortunate to have Please, when in the building, stop by the Jeanne right by my side to provide advice and guidance office and welcome Tamara Forte. She as I learned how to be an education director.” recently joined our staff as a full time executive secretary. In addition to her Jeanne has worked alongside five school directors and always loved being regular responsibilities, Tamara is the around the kids. “In the beginning, school was in session every day, different point person for assisting anyone days for different ages, so we had children running through the halls every needing to get in touch with Rabbi afternoon. It was great and, of course, what I will miss the most are the kids Abraham and Hazzan Krausman. running into the building and waving hello or stopping in to say hi,” she remarked. Already her positive attitude and great smile have been a welcome addition! Judy Bisman Rubin, Educational Director of BESTT from 2004-2012, shared, “These four things come to mind when I think of Jeanne Shechet and BESTT: Cait Leff has assumed additional She is great with the students and parents, loyal, reliable and a dear friend. She responsibilities in accepting a new role was warm and open in greeting parents and comforting to students who were as Office Manager. We are thrilled that not feeling their best. Jeanne was a loyal employee of BESTT and previously she is taking on more responsibility. UTTO and held the school's institutional history. She once "rescued” me when an opossum invaded my home and shared stories with me of her children and And, while Judy Tully has chosen to grandchildren. Best of luck to Jeanne in this next chapter of her life.” scale back her schedule a bit, we are pleased we can continue taking advantage Rabbi Steven Abraham added, “Jeanne has been a valuable part of our of her expertise (what a bonus!) and the synagogue and our school for over 20 years. Whether answering the phone or continuity she provides in the office. welcoming our students into the building, Jeanne has been a constant at Beth El. She will be sorely missed, and we thank her from the bottom of our hearts for all Our congregation is fortunate to have a the love she has shown our synagogue, our congregants, and most importantly to strong support staff that, despite the wide our children.” diversity of their individual roles, executes great teamwork and professionalism on “I’ve seen so many kids grow up, it’s hard to believe they return to the school our behalf each and every day. now as young adults and I recognize them as the toddlers who first ran through the school hallways,” Jeanne remarked. She recalled one 3 year old who would come into the school office when her mom arrived for 5:30 pm minyan. She would always sit at Jeanne’s desk and color pictures of fruit and today, Jeanne says, she still stops in when she’s home visiting from college. Jeanne still keeps an electric typewriter on her desk, saying it’s handy for a quick envelope. With great amusement, she recalled that recently a curious 8 year old asked what the machine was and if he could touch it! Stories like these made Jeanne love her job, but, after so many years, she feels it’s time to finally make herself a priority. “We are very grateful to Jeanne for her years of dedicated service to Beth El Synagogue, not only as the school's secretary but as an integral member of the support staff," said Beth El Executive Director Larry DeBruin. “Her knowledge of school operations over these past 23 years has provided strong continuity for our Hebrew and Sunday schools as we've undergone transformation from UTTO to BESTT. We wish her the very best in her future retirement endeavors.” Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org 4 Support the Buy Beth El Program Young Leaders BESTT Calendar January 2015 By Betsy Goodman,Youth Director As we move from Genesis to Exodus, a young leader emerges out of Egypt. The circumstances of Moses’ birth are an example of the selflessness demanded of a leader. In USY and Kadima I see leadership coming in many faces and forms. In our younger children at Beth El Synagogue, I also see forms of leadership and selflessness. Whether this be mentoring each other in Hebrew lessons, or begging for the opportunity to plan a program all by themselves, our congregation abounds with many young leaders. Kadima has taken a lot of initiative this year. Beginning this month, Kadima will have monthly meetings and programming. Kadima also has a general board once again; I recall Kadima elections in my 7th grade year, and the boost of leadership skills I received through my experience with BILU USY. These leadership skills will aid in communication, relationships, achievement, and many more facets of daily life. If your children are not involved yet, please urge them to give it a try; we have lots of fun! USY has just returned from Kinnus in St. Paul, MN. These young adults have conversations about worldly issues with such complexity and wit that it blows me away. We are beginning to gear up for Purim. Our president Elissa Wiener has been chairing Purim Carnival for years and is ready to pass the torch to Zach Stein and Jake Spivack. We will also have some Kadima co-chairs yet to be announced. Expect a call from us soon! 4 BESTT Hebrew School 9:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. 7 BESTT Hebrew School 4:15 - 6:15 p.m. High School Dinner & Classes 6:00 - 8:30 p.m. 10 Shabbat’s Cool - Grades K-7 10:00 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Shul-In - Grades 3-7 Saturday 12:45 p.m. - Sunday 9:45 a.m. Havdallah Under the Stars 6:30 p.m. - Grades 2 and Under, 7:00 pm All 11 BESTT Hebrew School - Grades K-2 Only 9:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Torah Tots 10:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. 14 BESTT Hebrew School 4:15 - 6:15 p.m. BESTT High School 6:45 - 8:30 p.m. 17-18 No BESTT or Jr. Congregation Martin Luther King Weekend Betsy Goodman 21 BESTT Hebrew School 4:15 - 6:15 p.m. BESTT High School 6:45 - 8:30 p.m. 23 Family Shabbat - Led by Grades 5-6 6:00 p.m. Service, followed by Oneg 24 Jr. Congregation 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 25 BESTT Hebrew School 9:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Torah Tots 10:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. 28 BESTT Hebrew School 4:15 - 6:15 p.m. BESTT High School 6:45 - 8:30 p.m. 31 Jr. Congregation 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Kadima Goes Ice Skating Sunday, January 11, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Moylan Ice Plex Join your friends from Kadima for an afternoon of skating at Moylan Ice Plex, 12550 West Maple Road. Cost: $8 per person plus snack money. RSVP to Betsy at 402-321-1806 by January 7. Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org 5 Support the Buy Beth El Program 2014 Life & Legacy Challenge Reached; New Challenge Set for 2015 We are thrilled to share two exciting announcements regarding Beth El’s Life and Legacy Campaign. Through the generosity of the donors listed below (new donors in bold), we have achieved our challenge goal of an additional one million dollars for our Life and Legacy campaign. We are sincerely grateful to our anonymous donor who stepped forward with this significant opportunity. We have even more exciting news! We have been offered an additional opportunity for 2015. If the synagogue can match an additional $500,000 in gifts for 2015, our donor will raise the initial match commitment from $1 million to $1.5 million. One challenge achieved, another to tackle! Rabbi Steven and Shira Abraham, John Atherton and Marti Rosen-Atherton, Ellie Batt, Ron and Cheryl Cooper, Deborah Denenberg, Yonathan and Liz Feldstern, the H. Lee and Carol Gendler Charitable Fund, Sherman and Darlene Golbitz, Alan Goodman, Andy and Carole Greenberg, Sylvia Jess, Marcel and Ilse Kahn, Myron Kaplan, Gloria Kaslow, Howard Kaslow, Howard Kooper, David and Shane Kotok, Howard and Nancy Kutler, Stanley and Evelyn Mitchell, Alan and Janie Murow, Allan Noddle, Patty Nogg, Steve Nogg, Alan Parsow, Carol Parsow, Marty and Iris Ricks, Carl Riekes, Zoe Riekes, Margo Riekes, Steve Riekes, Lloyd and Debbie Roitstein, Ed and Carol Schneider, Mr. and Mrs. Ben Shapiro, Steven and Marilyn Tipp, Norman and Joodi Veitzer, Jim and Esther Wax, Morley and Charlotte Zipursky and 4 anonymous donors. You can help us achieve our new match challenge and more importantly, ensure the future of Beth El Synagogue with your own life and legacy gift. If you are interested in learning more about how you can participate in Beth El Synagogue’s Life & Legacy campaign, please contact either Campaign Chairman Lloyd Roitstein at [email protected] or executive director Larry DeBruin at [email protected]. You may also visit www.bethel-omaha.org for more information and to complete a letter of intent online. It’s a Wrap! February 1 is the date of the World Wide Wrap! Beth El will join with congregations around the world to learn and celebrate the mitzvah of wrapping Tefillin. A signature program of the Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs, 2015 marks the 20th year for this concerted effort to educate and embrace this ancient mitzvah and link past and future generations to the ritual. The World Wide Wrap, according to Orin Rotman, the program’s chairman, focuses on the unique ritual spanning ages and generations. “We bind up, we engage, we use our whole bodies, we share ourselves as symbols for others while we involve ourselves in very personal and soul searching moments,” he continued. “We use Tefillin as the vehicle by which we express our personal and community values.” At 8:45 a.m., just prior to morning minyan on Sunday, February 1, Rabbi Abraham and Hazzan Krausman will give a hands-on demonstration on how to wrap Tefillin. Men’s Club members will also be on hand at minyan with extra sets of Tefillin for all those participating. Following minyan at a light breakfast hosted by Men’s Club, our clegy will continue the learning with a brief presentation regarding the hows, whys, and spiritual contexts of laying Tefillin. According to the Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs, the following is correct terminology when learning how to wrap: • Batim - the black leather boxes. • Retsuot - the straps. • Parshiot - the scrolls containing passages from Sh’mot (Exodus) and D’varim (Deuteronomy) which are inside the Batim. • Rosh - goes on the head. • Yad - goes on the arm. Hazzan Krausman plans to wrap our BESTT students into the morning’s learning. Following breakfast, at an assembly, Hazzan will open the Batim, the black leather boxes, so the students can peek inside the Tefillin. The children will also be able to learn how to wrap Tefillin themselves. For more information, contact Men’s Club President, Jason Blair at [email protected]. USY Winter Shabbaton - The Wonderful World of EMTZA January 23-25, Congregation Beth Shalom - Overland Park, KS Details online at www.bethel-omaha.org Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org Support the Buy Beth El Program 6 President’s Corner I am so pleased at the support Beth El receives from its congregants. It is truly rewarding to see how our members help! We have just learned that we have achieved Life and Legacy commitments to match the $1,000,000 challenge by an anonymous donor. Thank you to the thirty plus congregants who have made pledges to support Beth El with a future gift. No money is required now, only a commitment for future support. We hope it will be many years before we receive those funds. The over two million dollars of promised funding to our endowment will benefit and support future generations of Beth El members. While the pledges already made are substantial and a great start, there is still the continuing need to plan for our future. We ask that each of you think now about how you can ensure a strong future for generations to come. A 1% or 2% share of an estate is just one way to help. Please contact Lloyd Roitstein, our Life & Legacy chair, or Larry DeBruin for more information and ideas on how you can help guarantee a strong future for Beth El Synagogue. There is another group of Beth El congregants I want to thank. Those are the individuals who help make sure there is a Minyan at our daily services. Beth El is the only synagogue in Omaha that holds twice a day Minyan. When you are saying Kaddish, ten Jewish adults are required to complete a minyan. There is a dedicated crew of "regular" Minyannaires and we usually have the required minimum of ten, but it is not always possible for them to be there. It is very difficult when you want to say Kaddish for a loved one and there isn't a Minyan, but each one of you can help! Pick one day of the month; your birthday or a day of the week, and attend our daily Minyan. It is amazing how a commitment this small can have a huge impact; reaching out to others is what makes our congregation a community. I also want to thank the many volunteers who help the synagogue and the Omaha community each month. You can read in this issue about the many opportunities available, ranging from assistance with Men’s Club or Sisterhood activities to Social Action projects. Check out our weekly email announcements, our website, or the mid month mailer to stay up-todate on the many events going on. Thank you for everything you currently do for Beth El and what you can do in the future! Joel Rich President, Board of Trustees Minyannaires Thanks to these members of Beth El who attended at least one daily service between October 22 and December 11: Rabbi Steven Abraham • Alvin Abramson • Brandy Bailey King • Diane Axler Baum • Ann Belmont • Wendy Berenson Jason Blair • Michael Blatt • Sharon Brodkey • William Cohen • Rose Cooper • Hanna DeBruin • Larry DeBruin • Jay Durmaskin • Stanley Edelstein • Ronald Epstein • Liz Feldstern • Yonatan Feldstern • Beverly Fellman • Richard Fellman Glen Fineman • Hollie Fineman • Morris Friedman • Michael Gerson • Donald Goldstein • Betsy Goodman • Michael Goodman • Miriam Gottlieb • Andrew Greenberg • Lea Grunkin • Marjorie Gutnik • M'Lee Hasslinger • David Herzog Julianne Dunn Herzog • Sarah Kader • Marcel Kahn • Howard Kaiman • Howard Kaplan • Gloria Kaslow • Howard Kaslow • Judith Katskee • Milton Katskee • Leslie Kay • Steve King • Ari Kohen • David Kotok • Shane Kotok • Laurel Krausman • Hazzan Michael Krausman • Zach Krausman • Zev Krausman • Larry Kronick • Isaac Kurtzman • Emily Kutler • Joan Latchaw • Scott Lustgarten • Thelma Lustgarten • Joan Marcus • Myron Marcus • Lynda Mirvish • Allen Morris • Anna Mosenkis • Igor Mosenkis • Jane Murow • Carol Nathan • Ira Nathan • Dennis Paley • Steve Pitlor • Karen Pollak • Merle Potash • Amy Reynolds • Joel Rich • Mary Rich • Steven Riekes • Caryn Rifkin • Gary Rifkin • Nancy Rips Debra Roitstein • Lloyd Roitstein • Dorothy Rosenblum • Ernie Saltzman • Kevin Saltzman • Linda Saltzman • Rosalie Saltzman • Edward Schneider • Amanda Simon • Tootie Simon • Marsha Simon • Michelle Simon • Nancy Skid • Jacob Spivack • Marcie Spivack • John Stern • Judith Tully • Stewart Tully • Phyllis Wasserman • Esther Wax • Jim Wax • Jan Wayne • Philip Wayne • Steven Wees • David Wiesman The KOL is Sponsored by T h e Be t h El Judai ca Shop Gift Certificates Available Judaica Shop Hours: Wed. 2:30 - 5:00 p.m. & Sun. 10:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. (when BESTT is in session) Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org Support the Buy Beth El Program 7 Beth El Cemetery Expansion Progress Our plans for the expansion of Beth El’s cemetery are progressing from a vision to reality. We again want to thank those who have made a commitment to this project. Many sponsorship opportunities still remain to underwrite the needed improvements both in the old and new sections of the cemetery. Consider a gift that will be remembered for many generations to come. If you would like a personal visit to discuss these giving opportunities, contact Lloyd Roitstein at [email protected], Gary Nachman at [email protected] or Larry DeBruin at [email protected]. “It’s Not What One Says but Rather What One Does, that Makes All the Difference in the World” - Pirkei Avot Beth El’s Social Action committee is planning two projects in January on the Sundays preceding and following Martin Luther King Day. Following their previous “Week of Giving Back” during Chanukah a few years ago, they selected this week in order to honor Dr. King’s memory. In King’s own words, "Life's most persistent and urgent question is: 'What are you doing for others?' Dave Cohen, who co-chairs the Social Action committee with his wife Karla, heard Danny Siegel, the "The Pied Piper of Tzedakah," speak last fall when Siegel was Beth El’s Scholar-in-Residence. Inspired by Siegel’s words, “It’s not the thought that counts; it’s the doing, the action that changes the world,” Dave stepped forward to chair “Bowling for Babies.” On Sunday January 18, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Sempek’s Bowl, 20902 Cumberland Dr, Elkhorn, individuals and families are invited to this creative and fun event supporting Jewish Family Services. Cost to participate is $18 per person which includes 90 minutes of bowling, shoes, and a $5 voucher good for beverages and snacks. We are also asking that people bring items needed for babies such as formula, diapers, wipes, clothing and toys. All proceeds will be donated to the JFS panty to help families in need. We Share Your Joy Cheryl Lerner has organized an afternoon of service at the Food Bank for the Heartland, 10525 ‘J’ St., planned for Sunday, January 25, from 1:00 to 3:30 p.m. All participants are asked to bring a non-perishable food item for donation. “Much of the good work that the Food Bank for the Heartland does is accomplished by volunteers,” said Cheryl. “The services they provide make it possible for the Food Bank to continue feeding the hungry in Nebraska and western Iowa. Sign up online at www.bethel-omaha.org; for more information, contact Lerner at [email protected]. “I encourage everyone to be informed about the issue of hunger in our own community,” she said. “Most of us are fortunate to be able to go to the grocery store or out to eat, with little thought as to the experience of those for whom a regular meal is an uncertainty and a meal out is a luxury. It is our obligation as Jews, as human beings, to be part of the solution. When you open your eyes to the need, turning a blind eye is no longer an option.” Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org 8 On the Birth of: • Gabriel James Gerson, Grandson of Michael & Meta Gerson • Hadley Caroline Nogg, Granddaughter of Steve & Patty Nogg • Tova J Ortmeyer, Granddaughter of Richard & Joanie Jacobson • Evan Benjamin Ray, Grandson of Howard and Sharon Epstein • Michael Dillon Sherman, Grandson of Tuffy & Helen Epstein Support the Buy Beth El Program Men’s Club Corner Shalom Aleichem, The first order of business is to give a big Todah Rabah to all of the volunteers who assisted with the Men’s Club Annual Chinese Dinner. Without your help and support, this event would not be possible. We are very fortunate to have such giving members in our community. Thank you for all you do! Our next Jews and Brews will be a Whiskey tasting event on Saturday, January 24 at 7:00 pm. Join us for some camaraderie and for an informal discussion led by the Spirit World staff. As is the Beth El tradition, the Men’s Club will be participating in the World Wide Wrap on Sunday, February 1. If you would like assistance in laying Tefillin the day of the event, please arrive by 8:45 am, and congregation members with extra sets of Tefillin will be available for all wanting to fulfill this mitzvah. For more information visit www.worldwidewrap.org or contact Jason Blair at [email protected]. We are always brainstorming ideas to attract new faces and more participation from the community. The club welcomes any idea that promotes community building. Please consider stepping forward with an idea of how to help us further our mission and tell us about activities you want the club to sponsor. The community will appreciate it, and we will support you! Be sure to sign up and join Men’s Club online through Chaverweb for the low cost of $36. Drop a check by the synagogue, or mail one in. We need your membership, commitment, and support! Thank you and have a great month! Jason Blair President, Beth El Men’s Club LOL with YAC at the Funny Bone Saturday, January 31 7:00 p.m. Wine and Spirits at Brix 9:30 p.m. Funny Bone Comedy Club Featuring James Johann Hosts Jason & Laurie Epstein Jimmy & Sophie Friedlander Adam & Abigail Kutler Details to Follow Rosh Hodesh Women Wrap Themselves in Tradition Egalitarianism, the belief in equal religious opportunities for both men and women, is one of the fundamental tenets of Beth El. Among the most prominent religious items are Tefillin and Tallit. Tefillan serves as a visceral sign that we bind ourselves to the pursuit of holiness and connection to God. Having for years seen the black boxes perched only on male foreheads, the straps wrapped around only male biceps, the objects seemed foreign and exotic to those who could not participate. The Talmud emphasizes Tefillin’s unique ability to capture holiness, but the knowledge behind the act is what makes it so powerful. Wearing a Tallit is seen as a way to approach spirituality in a public setting. Yet a review of the sources behind this ritual reveals a deeper understanding that makes wearing Tallit more meaningful. It is within this spirit of learning and community, that the women of Beth El will come together to learn from Rabbi Abraham about the mitzvot of Tallit and Tefillin in Beth El’s Chapel on Thursday, January 22 at 7:00 p.m. Sponsored by the Womens’ Rosh Hodesh Group, this event is being chaired by Caryn Rifkin and M’Lee Hasslinger. Following the learning session, refreshments will be served and attendees will have the opportunity to browse and purchase a selection of Tallitot and Kippot from Beth El’s gift shop. RSVPs to Caryn at [email protected] or M’Lee at [email protected]. Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org 9 Support the Buy Beth El Program This Kol lists contributions received by December 10, 2014. Donations received after that date will be listed in the February edition of the Kol. Ruth & David Platt Endowment Fund Programming Fund David & Ida Potash Endowment Fund Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund Yahrzeit of: Douglas Platt, Rebecca Platt Recovery of: Tuffy Epstein • Yahrzeit of: Toby Dolgoff, Chaya Dvora Potashnick, Helene Wasserman Contributions to Named Endowment Funds Selwyn Roffman Endowment Fund 21st Century Endowment Fund Jerold I. Rosen Endowment Fund Lorri Anne & Saul Z. Davis Endowment Fund Celia and Ben Schwartz Transportation Endowment Fund Yahrzeit of: Daniel Katzman Yahrzeit of: Albert Davis, Lorri Anne Davis, Martin Milstein, George Shrago Drazen Family Summer Experience Endowment Fund Recovery of: Allan Noddle, Judy Tully Yahrzeit of: Arthur Alpert, Yale Drazen, Martin H. Schneider Yahrzeit of: Abe Roffman, Izzy Roffman Yahrzeit of: David Rosen, Sam Ziegman In Memory of: Ethan Wolfe Stephen R. Skid Endowment Fund In Memory of: Ethan Wolfe Arnold Stern Endowment Fund Recovery of: Marie Shafer • Yahrzeit of: Don Shafer Willis Epstein Endowment Fund Contributions to Named Synagogue Funds Isaac H. & Ruth S. Friedman Endowment Fund Cantor Berkovits Music Fund General Endowment Fund Birth of: Evan Benjamin Ray • In Memory of: Naomi Arav • Recovery of: Tuffy Epstein, Marcel Kahn Joseph A. & J. Alvin Ginsburg Endowment Fund Yahrzeit of: Vincent Felton, Joe Ginsberg Linda H. Lynn Kahn Endowment Fund Yahrzeit of: Freda Gradman Shersky Ilse and Marcel Kahn Endowment Fund Birthday of: Stacie Bleicher, Susie Drazen, Judy Katskee • In Memory of: Adele Greenberg, Guinter Kahn, Fred Slavitter, Miriam Wisnev • Recovery of: Tuffy Epstein, Marcel Kahn • Yahrzeit of: Gloria Goodman, Arthur Walker Anniversary of: David and Julie Herzog • In Appreciation of: Hazzan Michael Krausman, Laurel Krausman Recovery of: Tuffy Epstein • Yahrzeit of: Dwayne Kushner, Sam Sacks Early Childhood Fund Yahrzeit of: Elaine Bernstein, Isaac Lipshitz Etta and Harold Epstein Chapel Fund Yahrzeit of: Norman Abrahamson General Fund Alan S. Kulakofsky Endowment Fund Liturgical Book Fund Milton Marcus Instrumental Music Endowment Fund Recovery of: Tuffy Epstein, Carol Schneider • Yahrzeit of: Betty Krasne Lee Jane Parsow Endowment Fund In Memory of: Naomi Arav Torah Repair Fund Yahrzeit of: Tzvi Rahmani Youth Education Fund In Memory of: Steven Lustgarten Recovery of: Tuffy Epstein, Lloyd Roitstein • Yahrzeit of: Sam Cohen, Isadore Plotkin, Don Shafer BIRTHDAYS Yahrzeit of: Jacob Gross, Edith Passer, Richard Stern In Memory of: Forrest Krutter Anniversary of: Jonathan and Renee Fox • Yahrzeit of: Jack Fox In Memory of: Reva Chapman, Cynthia Schneider • Yahrzeit of: Max Bittner, Zalman Friedman, Harold Karp, Ben Kaslow, Abraham Kazlowsky, Lori Sweet Cemetery Improvement Fund In Appreciation of: Glen Fineman • In Honor of: Happy New Year to the Congregation • In Memory of: Naomi Arav • Yahrzeit of: Norman Abrahamson, Doris Cohen, Rose Cohn, Ida Cooper, Martin Cooper, Samuel Cooper, Michael Hoberman, Benjamin Littky, Sondra Ostrow, Paul Sacks, Ida Zoorwill, Ben Zoorwill Forrest Krutter Memorial Garden Fund Scholarship Fund Yahrzeit of: Morris Cook Yahrzeit of: Michael Herzog, Michael Hoberman, Rachel Segall In Memory of: John Shooter • Yahrzeit of: Isaac H. Friedman, Ida Friedman Anniversary of: Tom and Ellen Jaeger Birthday of: Rabbi Steven Abraham • In Appreciation of: Rabbi Steven Abraham, Lloyd Roitstein • In Honor of: Glen Fineman and Hollie Fineman, Steve and Patty Nogg, Joel and Mary Rich, Nancy Skid, Phyllis Wasserman • In Memory of: Naomi Arav, Father of Becky and Percy Kirk • Recovery of: Marcel Kahn, Debbie Roitstein • Yahrzeit of: Bertha Cook, Harvey Cooper, Clifton Dreyfus, Eileen Siegel Playground Fund Birthday of: Gary Epstein Barbara & Dean Frankel Endowment Fund Birth of: Hadley Caroline Nogg With 5-year Multiples Richard Bailer • Sarita Cooper Catherine Cox • Mira Dennison Audrey Epstein • Yonatan Feldstern • Joshua Follick • Ellis Goodman • Robbi Kolnick Scherry Linsman •Alan Parsow Cynthia Salkin • Martin Shukert Phyllis Wasserman • Samantha Wiener • David Wiesman ANNIVERSARIES In Memory of: Naomi Arav, Guinter Kahn Yahrzeit of: Edith Edelstein, Haskell Edelstein, Margy Schneider Mitzvah Meals Fund Amy Nachman & Alan Potash ♥ Marcia & Steve Pitlor ♥ Elena & Michael Shnayder ♥ Yahrzeit of: Martin Cooper, Samuel Cooper, Pola Lustgarten Playground Equipment Fund With 5-Year Multiples Yahrzeit of: Morris Cook Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org 10 Support the Buy Beth El Program Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org 11 Support the Buy Beth El Program 9:00 am - Shacharit Service 9:45 am - BESTT 10:00 am - Torah Study 10:15 am - Torah Tots 1:00 pm - Food Bank Volunteer Day 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 25 9:00 am - Shacharit Service 9:45 am - Babies, Bigger Kids & Bagels 10:00 am - Torah Study 11:00 am - Adult B’nai Mitzvah 4:00 pm - SATO Bowling for Babies 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 18 9:00 am - Shacharit Service 9:45 am - BESTT Grades K-2 Only 10:00 am - Torah Study 10:15 am - Torah Tots 11:00 am - Adult B’nai Mitzvah 1:00 pm - Kadima Ice Skating 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 11 9:00 am - Shacharit Service 9:45 am - BESTT 10:00 am - Torah Study 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 4 Sunday 7:00 am - Shacharit Service 10:00 am - Wrestling with the Rabbis 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 7:00 am - Shacharit Service 4:15 pm - BESTT 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 6:45 pm - Hebrew High 9:00 am - Shacharit Service 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 7:00 am - Morning Service 6:00 pm - Kabbalat Shabbat 9:30 am - Sisterhood Shabbat 10:00 am - Jr. Congregation 10:45 am - Mini Minyannaires 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 7:30 pm - YAC Goes to Brix & FunnyBone 31 30 29 28 27 26 7:00 am - Shacharit Service 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 9:30 am - Shabbat Services 10:45 am - Mini Minyannaires 10:00 am - Jr. Congregation 5:15 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 7:00 pm - Men’s Club Whiskey Tasting 24 7:00 am - Morning Service 11:30 am - Nebraska AIDs Luncheon 6:00 pm - Family Shabbat & Oneg 23 9:30 am - Have a Cup of Coffee with God 10:45 am - Mini Minyannaires 5:15 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 7:00 am - Shacharit Service 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 7:00 pm - Women’s Rosh Hodesh Group 22 7:00 am - Shacharit Service 6:00 pm - Kabbalat Shabbat Evening - Our Shabbat Tables 7:00 am - Shacharit Service 4:15 pm - BESTT 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 6:45 pm - Hebrew High 21 7:00 am - Shacharit Service 1:00 pm - Shanghai Class 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 7:00 am - Shacharit Service 11:00 am - Wonderful World of Jewish Music 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 7:00 pm - Board of Trustees Meeting 20 7:00 am - Shacharit Service 4:15 pm - BESTT 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 6:45 pm - Hebrew High 7:00 am - Shacharit Service 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 19 7:00 am - Shacharit Service 10:00 am - Wrestling with the Rabbis 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 7:00 pm - Women’s Book Group 7:30 pm - BESTT Committee Meeting 17 16 15 14 13 12 7:00 am - Shacharit Service 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 9:30 am - Shabbat Services 10:00 am - Shabbat’s Cool & Shul-In 10:45 am - Mini Minyannaires 5:00 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 6:30pm - Havdallah Under the Stars at UNO 7:00 am - Shacharit Service 6:00 pm - Kabbalat Shabbat 10 7:00 am - Shacharit Service 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 9 9:00 am - Shacharit Service 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 8 3 9:30 am - Shabbat Services 10:45 am - Mini Minyannaires 5:00 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 7:00 am - Shacharit Service 6:00 pm - Kabbalat Shabbat Saturday 2 Friday 1 NEW YEAR’S DAY Thursday 7:00 am - Shacharit Service 4:15 pm - BESTT 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 6:00 pm - Hebrew High Dinner & Classes 7 Wednesday 7:00 am - Shacharit Service 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 6 Tuesday 7:00 am - Shacharit Service 5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv 5 Monday January 2015 Beth El Staff Steven Abraham ................................Rabbi Michael Krausman ..........................Hazzan Larry DeBruin ................Executive Director Eadie Tsabari..............................Director of Congregational Learning Margie Gutnik ..................Program Director Betsy Goodman ...................Youth Director Melissa Massey .......................Comptroller Laura Bair ........................Kitchen Manager Cait Leff ..............................Office Manager Judy Tully ............Administrative Assistant Tamara Forte ..............Executive Secretary Officers Joel Rich .........................Beth El President Ari Riekes ............................Vice President Friday Evening Candle Lighting Times: Mincha/Maariv Service Schedule: Jim Zipursky ........................Vice President January 2 ..........4:49 p.m. January 3 .........5:00 p.m. Jay Gordman ...............................Treasurer January 9 ..........4:56 p.m. January 10 .........5:00 p.m. January 16 .........5:03 p.m. January 17 ........5:15 p.m. January 23 .........5:12 p.m. January 24 ........5:15 p.m. January 30 .........5:20 p.m. January 31 ........5:30 p.m. Jon Jabenis .........................Vice President Caryn Scheer ...............................Secretary Lloyd Roitstein.....................Past President Lisa Lieb .................................BESTT Chair Jason Blair ...............Men’s Club President Heather Kelln ............Sisterhood President Elissa Wiener ...................U.S.Y. President Weekday Services at 7:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Sunday Services at 9:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
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