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MAY 2015 IYAR ~ SIVAN 5775 WWW.BETHELNR.ORG

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE CENTER

GALA CELEBRATION HONORING THE SIRNERS Shabbat, May 30th, and Sunday Evening, May 31st SPRING HAS SPRUNG—THE FLOWERS ARE BLOOMING IT’S FINALLY HERE…THE GALA MONTH OF MAY GET READY TO CELEBRATE Wow do we have a great weekend planned for May 30th and 31st!! On Shabbat morning, please join us as we “walk down memory lane” and celebrate the many s’machot officiated by Rabbi Sirner. We will also have a chance to watch him have an aliyah and be RESPOND celebrated by the congregation. Following the service, we will have We need you to respond in several ways. First, there are three big a wonderful Kiddush luncheon, featuring an a capella orchestra events coming up. The Panel discussion on May 6th, the Shabbat and Israeli dancing. We intend to set a record for the most spirited Celebration on May 30th, and the Gala on May 31st. All three hora in Beth El history. events require your response. Let’s try and break with Beth El Finally, the culmination of all these events will occur on Sunday tradition and R.S.V.P.—A.S.A.P.!! evening, May 31st, beginning at 6:00 pm, with the Beth El Gala Although generally you wouldn’t have to respond to a Shabbat honoring Rabbi Melvin and Lenore Sirner. Once again, this year’s Service, in this case we need to know if you are participating in any Gala is going to be different from our traditional Dinner Dance. of the special aliyot. Were you married by or did you celebrate a Unlike in the past, there will be no assigned seats at large tables. In Bar or Bat Mitzvah with Rabbi Sirner? We also want to be sure we order to accommodate a large crowd, dinner will be an incredible have an abundant Kiddush luncheon. Of course we also absolutely and elaborate buffet and there will be cocktail tables throughout need your response regarding the Sunday evening Gala. But apart the room as well as a few larger tables for those who have difficulty from the normal practice of responding to an event, we need you standing. After “fressing” for almost two hours, we will adjourn to to respond in a big way to something even more important. the sanctuary for a memorable presentation to the Sirners. Finally, This year, in an effort to recognize the incredible impact the we will return to the ballrooms for a sumptuous dessert reception. Sirners have had on our community over the last 43 years, we It will truly be the event of the year. have established “The Rabbi Melvin and Lenore Sirner Fund In conclusion, we know with all of the work and preparation that for Jewish Inspiration.” By now you should have received all has gone into this event, it will be wonderful. However, the most of the information on this fund and we look forward to all of us important element to make this event a “once in a lifetime,” is the responding significantly and sincerely from the heart to support participation of our entire commnity. Wait . . . is that a typo in the this endeavor. Bulletin . . .Commnity?? Nope the only thing missing is “U”!! The caterer is booked, the invitations have gone out, the flowers have been designed, the kippot have been ordered, and journal ads are being solicited. The only things left for you to do is a little R and R. This means Respond and get Ready to celebrate.

Annual Congregational Meeting • Wednesday, May 20th Come drink and shmooze with us, and stay to hear about the state of Beth El. Cocktail hour and hors d’oeuvres, 7:00 pm • Congregational Meeting, 8:00 pm

We will honor: • Rosalie Cristofalo on her upcoming retirement • Jonah Atlas, Jerry Gottlieb, and Dr. Lester Zimmerman for their dedication to the Retirees Group KINDLY R.S.V.P. TO BETHELNR.ORG/ANNUAL Shavuot Services..........................pages 3, 7 Sirner Celebration........................ pages 4, 5 Spring Film Festival ........................ page 3 Ruderman Inclusion..........................page 10

Sisterhood Gala.......................pages 12, 13 Cheesecake Sale............................... page 16

ONE SYNAGOGUE - MANY SERVICES Beth El Synagogue Center 1324 North Avenue New Rochelle, NY 10804-2190 (914) 235-2700 www.bethelnr.org

A Conservative synagogue affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism Rabbi Melvin N. Sirner Hazzan Jamie Gloth Associate Cantor Uri Aqua Assistant Rabbi Joshua Dorsch Cantor Emeritus Lawrence Avery Hazzan Emeritus Farid Dardashti Executive Director Erica Leventhal Controller Olivier Vogel Day Camp Director Julie Rockowitz Maintenance Director Milton Sinclair Nursery School Director Ronnie Becher Religious School & Youth Activities Dir. Jen Vegh Special Projects Director Linda Newman

OFFICERS President Executive Vice President Vice President Vice President Vice President Treasurer Financial Secretary Recording Secretary

Samuel E. Berger Geralynn C. Reifer Daniel Burton Mark Seidenfeld Mark Silver Joseph Wygoda Debbie Young Sandy Gruenberg

AFFILIATE OFFICERS Sisterhood President Barbara Horowitz Men’s Club Co-Presidents Robert Levine Steven L. Young Parent Organization Ellen Barlis, Rachel Casanova, Marci Marcus

Youth Services & Shabbat SPACE May 2, 10:45 am 9:30 am Shabbat SPACE 10:15 am Pre-Service Oneg 10:45 am Torah for Tots (page 14) Family Kehillah Service Clergy visitor: Rabbi Josh Dorsch

May 24, 10:45 am, First Day Shavuot 9:30 am Shabbat SPACE 10:15 am Pre-Service Oneg 10:45 am Torah for Tots Family Kehillah Service Clergy visitor: Hazzan Jamie Gloth

May 9, 10:45 am Birthday Shabbat 10:15 am Pre-Service Oneg 10:45 am Torah for Tots Family Kehillah Service Clergy visitor: Cantor Uri Aqua

May 25, 10:45 am, Second Day Shavuot 9:30 am Shabbat SPACE 10:15 am Pre-Service Oneg 10:45 am Torah for Tots Family Kehillah Service Clergy visitor: Cantor Uri Aqua

May 16, 10:45 am

May 30, 10:45 am 9:30 am Shabbat SPACE 10:15 am Pre-Service Oneg 10:45 am Torah for Tots Family Kehillah Service Clergy visitor: Rabbi Josh Dorsch

9:30 am Shabbat SPACE 10:15 am Pre-Service Oneg 10:45 am Torah for Tots Family Kehillah Service Clergy visitor: Rabbi Melvin Sirner May 23, 10:45 am 9:30 am Shabbat SPACE 10:15 am Pre-Service Oneg 10:30 am Shabbat in the Park Meet in the Wiener Lounge An American Sign Language interpreter will be provided upon request.

BULLETIN COMMITTEE Editor & Production Assistant Editors

Linda Newman Michelle Levy Blaustein Jack Gruenberg Steven L. Young

EDITORIAL BOARD Rabbi Melvin N. Sirner Samuel E. Berger Hazzan Jamie Gloth Erica Leventhal Steven L. Young

The Bulletin Vol. 97, No. 9

May 2015 Iyar ~ Sivan 5775

Please visit the Beth El Synagogue Center website, www.bethelnr.org for the most current information on meetings and events. To send us a message, e-mail info@bethelnr.org.

Daily Minyan Beth El maintains morning and evening services every day of the year. Contact Associate Cantor Uri Aqua, 914-235-2700, ext. 222.

Shacharit

Saturdays – 9:00 am Sundays – 8:00 am Mondays and Thursdays – 6:55 am Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays – 7:00 am

Evening Minyan Times Mincha and Maariv May 1 – 7 7:30 pm 9 – 21 7:45 pm 23 – 31 8:00 pm PLEASE NOTE: Friday evening services are held at 7:00 pm through the spring and summer months. 2

Havurah Service MAY 9, 10:00 am in the Wiener Lounge During this service we will try to emphasize creativity, engagement, and participation in a relaxed environment. Families are welcome. Please join us. If you are interested in participating, or if you have any questions, please contact Rabbi Dorsch at jdorsch@ bethelnr.org.

Shabbat Discussion Group Services take place in the Bess and Nathan P. Jacobs Library from 10:30 am to 12:00 noon. Participants gain a better understanding of the Shabbat morning service through study and discussion of individual prayers and the weekly Torah portion. Other relevant topics are also discussed. Contact: Jack Gruenberg jackgruenberg@gmail.com MAY 2, 16

Visit us on facebook at www.facebook.com/ BethElSynagogueCenter

• •

SPRING FILM FESTIVAL DINNER THEATRE “THIS IS THE ARMY, MR. COHEN” BEGINNING THURSDAY, MAY 14th Join us for our twenty-ninth annual, METNY award-winning film series, “THIS IS THE ARMY, MR. COHEN: JEWISH CHARACTERS IN THE MILITARY DURING WW II.” We will feature films by two of the giant directors of our era—Steven Spielberg and Mike Nichols—starring several of our most gifted actors. The opening salvo, on May 14th, will be the riveting Pacific theater drama, THE CAINE MUTINY, starring Humphrey Bogart, Jose Ferrer, and Van Johnson. We then move stateside to basic training on May 21st, with Mike Nichols’ BILOXI BLUES, starring Matthew Broderick. On May 28th, we ship out to the European theater of war with THE YOUNG LIONS, starring Montgomery Clift and Marlon Brando. On June 4th, two days before the seventy-first anniversary of D-Day,

we will present Tom Hanks and Matt Damon in Spielberg’s monumental film SAVING PRIVATE RYAN. A delightful dinner-theatre is the format, with each self-contained Thursday evening session beginning with a tasty delicatessen buffet supper at 6:30 pm . A formal introduction to the film, a complete screening, a critique, and a lively (sometimes even combative) group discussion follow. While some have participated in this mini-course for three decades, newcomers are always made to feel equally welcome. We will be honored to also have join us any members who are WW II veterans; they are warmly invited to be guests of the series. Returning for his tenth year as guest lecturer, Larry Strickler will lead the opening and closing sessions. Combining his excellence

as social studies teacher with his many years as the prized activities director at Kutsher’s Country Club, Larry is currently a senior admissions administrator for Baruch College. He is a consummate and most entertaining lecturer on film. Elaine Katz, founding chairwoman of the film festival, will present the two middle sessions. Please be sure to R.S.V.P. Register at bethelnr.org/filmfestival. COST: Individual session: $28 (Beth El members, $25). Series: $95 (Beth El members, $80). Beth El members who are World War II veterans are invited to attend this course as our guests (no fee).

Service schedule, page 7

Hosted at the home of Sandy and Jack Gruenberg. Light dinner will be served. Sheva Brachot will be recited for Rabbi Dorsch and Stephanie Millman. RSVP required, visit www.bethelnr.org/study to register. 3

GALA PACKAGES, ADS, AND RESERVATIONS

4

JOIN US FOR A SPECIAL PANEL DISCUSSION ON The Condition of American Jewry—Current Patterns and Future Prospects WEDNESDAY EVENING, MAY 6th • 7:30 pm Moderated by Beth El’s own Dr. Jack Wertheimer (Professor of American Jewish History at the Jewish Theological Seminary), Steven Bayme (Director of the Contemporary Jewish Life Department of the American Jewish Committee), Steven Cohen (Research Professor of Jewish Policy at HUC-JIR), and Alisa Kurshan (Executive Vice President for Community Planning and Agency Resources for UJA Federation of New York) will discuss their unique perspectives as they invite us to explore this topic that is so near and dear to Rabbi Sirner’s heart.

ABOUT OUR PANALISTS STEVEN BAYME

PROFESSOR STEVEN M. COHEN

Steven Bayme serves as director of the William Petschek Contemporary Jewish Life Department, AJC. He holds an undergraduate degree in history from Yeshiva University and Master of Arts and Ph.D. degrees in Jewish history from Columbia University. He has taught at Yeshiva University, JTS, Hebrew Union College, and he serves as visiting faculty at Yeshivat Chovevei Torah. His publications include Understanding Jewish History: Texts and Commentary, a survey of the Jewish historical experience, and Jewish Arguments and Counter-Arguments, a volume of essays on contemporary Jewish life. His most recent volumes are American Jewry’s Comfort Level, assessing the challenges to American Jewry and (co-edited with Steven Katz) Continuity and Change: A Festschrift in Honor of Irving Greenberg. He is widely cited in the media and on three occasions has been named to the Forward’s list of the fifty most influential Jews in the United States.

Steven M. Cohen is research professor of Jewish Social Policy at HUC-JIR, and director of the Berman Jewish Policy Archive at NYU Wagner. In 1992 he made aliyah, and taught at The Hebrew University. He previously taught at Queens College, Yale, and JTS. He has written hundreds of articles and reports, as well as a dozen books, including The Jew Within (with Arnold Eisen) and Two Worlds of Judaism: The Israeli and American Experience (with Charles Liebman). He was the lead researcher on the Jewish Community Study of New York: 2011 and a consultant to the recently conducted Pew study of American Jews. He has served as a consultant to every major denomination in Jewish life, and to scores of philanthropic foundations and communal agencies. Prof. Cohen received an honorary doctorate from the Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies, the Marshall Sklare Award, and a National Jewish Book Award for Sacred Strategies: Transforming Synagogues from Functional to Visionary, of which he is a co-author. He’s been cited twice as one of the Forward Fifty, and serves as president of the Association for the Social Scientific Study of Jewry. Married to Rabbi Marion Lev-Cohen, they live in Jerusalem and New York. His daughter is an attorney in Israel, and his son lives in New Jersey with his family.

ALISA RUBIN KURSHAN

Alisa Rubin Kurshan currently serves as executive vice president of community planning and agency resources at UJAFederation. Alisa has been one of the prime architects of UJA-Federation’s response to the challenges of strengthening Jewish community in the modern era of open society and has published numerous articles on contemporary Jewish issues, including Jewish peoplehood, Jewish leadership, and Jewish education. She received her Ph.D. in Jewish Education from the Jewish Theological Seminary in 1996. Alisa has lived with her husband, Rabbi Neil Kurshan, in Huntington, N.Y., for the past thirty years, where they raised their four children. Their family now includes seven grandchildren, including three sabras.

JACK WERTHEIMER

Jack Wertheimer is the Joseph and Martha Mendelson Professor of American Jewish History at the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he served as provost and chief academic officer, for a decade. His research and writing focus on the religious, educational, and communal development of American Jewry since World War II. Jack and his family have been members of Beth El Synagogue Center for over twenty years.

REMINDER: Please submit your journal message in honor of Rabbi Melvin and Lenore Sirner, and make your reservations for our Gala on Sunday evening, May 31st, at 6:00 pm (form, page 4). We are also taking reservations for our special Shabbat celebration on Saturday, May 30th. Visit bethelnr.org/gala, or call Linda at 914-235-2700, ext. 246. 5

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

The Selma and Stanley Batkin Religious School Scholarship Fund Dear Friends: I am very excited to announce that Jane and Alan Batkin have established The Selma and Stanley Batkin Religious School Scholarship Fund. This Fund was established in honor of Stanley’s 100th birthday, and in memory of Stanley’s wife, Selma, of blessed memory. This Scholarship Fund will help us fulfill our mission to insure that every Jewish child is afforded the Jewish education they deserve, to help foster a love of Judaism, Israel, and to build the bonds of community to ensure the future of our people. Thanks to the Alan’s and Jane’s generosity, the Batkin Fund will provide scholarships for Religious School students whose families could not otherwise afford to pay Religious School tuition. This Fund will be listed in the Bulletin and on our website and will accept contributions on an ongoing basis. Those of us that were in shul to celebrate Stanley’s 100th birthday on Shabbat, October 18, 2014, recall how wonderful it was to hear Rabbi Sirner recall all of the significant contributions

Stanley has made to Beth El throughout the years, especially in connection with planning, fundraising, and building of our synagogue center facilities. What was Samuel E. Berger even more exciting was being able to see Stanley walk up to Bimah unassisted, and hear him speak and acknowledge the rabbi’s comments on the actual day of his 100th birthday. What a beautiful celebration of his milestone and legacy, and the history of our congregation. We should all be so lucky!! Todah rabbah to Jane and Alan for their generosity to our community in establishing this fund, and a hearty mazal tov to Stanley Batkin! See you in shul. Sam

RABBI’S MESSAGE This past fall, following the High Holy Days, I met a member of our community in the local shopping center. After wishing each other well for the coming year, he/she asked me how I felt about celebrating “my Rabbi last Yom Kippur!” I shared that it was most Melvin N. Sirner meaningful, and I hoped to celebrate many more! I realized that this person really meant to ask how I felt about my last Yom Kippur on the pulpit as senior rabbi of Beth El! To be sure, from time to time, I have reflected differently this year on concluding various events and chapters in my pulpit career. It has been a very gratifying and meaningful tenure for me, and to serve this warm and distinguished congregation has been an honor and privilege. I wish to publicly express gratitude for all the efforts of Beth El leadership in providing special events this May. I believe that May 6, we will have four of the most prominent and astute students of American Jewish life here, in one place, sharing their thoughts about the past, and equally important, the future. I appreciate that Shabbat, the central and most holy day of the week, will be provide an opportunity to see many returnees to Beth El and recall special times I have been privileged to share

in the lives of so many of our families. I’m certain the Gala will be very festive and hopefully generate both great spirit and tangible funds for the community’s future. Many have asked about my plans for the future. For now, I hope to enjoy a bit more leisure time, and not feeling on call 24/7. Lenore and I hope to travel more frequently and welcome the opportunity to pursue some personal interests which have long been on hold. For the immediate future, we intend to continue to live in our home in New Rochelle. Please know that I will not be involved in the day-to-day operations of the shul. Beth El is fortunate to welcome, very shortly, a bright, energetic, and very capable rabbi in David Schuck, who will surely bring great blessing to our community. He will be working alongside a wonderful cadre of professional clergy and staff, and, side by side with devoted and capable lay leadership. I know that working together, our team will meet the challenges of today and tomorrow and lead the Beth El community from strength to strength. If, from time to time, I may be of help with some lifecycle events, I will do my best, in cooperation and with respect for the new rabbi. I look forward to seeing you around campus and wish you and your loved ones good health and joy. Melvin N. Sirner, Rabbi

The congregation is invited to the aufruf of Rabbi Josh Dorsch and Stephanie Millman during Shabbat morning services on May 16th, in honor of their upcoming wedding. 6

NOTES FROM THE HAZZAN For the past three years, my family and I have attended Beth El’s Hazzan Jamie Gloth annual Family Kallah. The question I get asked most often is, “What is a Kallah?” The Hebrew word “kallah” means “bride,” so many assume the weekend is so named because of the Shabbat bride, who is at its emotional core. Perhaps, but the word “kallah” also means a convention or assembly. Last year, twenty families, making up a wide cross-section of our synagogue population, shared a fantastic Shabbat weekend away from home at the Beth El Family Kallah. We prayed and played at the beautiful Camp Louemma, where there were activities for participants of all ages, including sports, swimming, miniature golfing, learning, boating, and lots of schmoozing. Being in a quiet, natural,

outdoor setting made for a relaxing and informal environment in which to truly understand what a day of rest can be. It was refreshing and energizing to spend Shabbat there. As we were planning this year’s Kallah, I reviewed a list of objectives that was created during the planning of the very first Kallah in 2001. It is still very relevant today: • enlightenment, both spiritual and social, and in many different ways • connectedness—group bonding, getting to know new people • community building • “stolen moments”—flexible and receptive to spontaneous, unplanned experiences • release from pressures of daily life • throwback to camp/natural environment • communal/common feeling—doing everything together as an “extended family • “haimishe” • multi-generational and mixing with others outside your regular “circle” • creating memories for our children • o p p o r t u n i t y t o t r y / experience rituals in a nonintimidating environment • spiritual experiences— services, Friday night singing, complete Shabbat

• relaxing and fun-filled • kids made to feel special and “welcome” • special moments (softball game, Havdalah, campfire) Kallah gives us all of these things, and more. Meeting new friends at synagogue happens all the time, and it is one of the reasons we join a community in the first place. But there is something unique about truly getting to know someone in a relaxed, informal setting over the entirety of Shabbat. There is nothing quite like it, and if you have not done it before, there is no better time than right now. We are already deep into the final planning for this year’s Beth El Family Kallah, to be held from Friday, June 12 to Sunday, June 14, again at the wonderful Camp Louemma, in Sussex, New Jersey. There are still a few spots left, and it really is a bargain for the amazing experience you and your family get. I hope you will consider joining us for a Shabbat weekend getaway that you will not forget. We have planned activities for people of all ages, from toddler to t’ween, from young families to empty nesters, and everyone in between. Sign up today at www.bethelnr.org/kallah. You will be glad you did. Hazzan Jamie Gloth

SHAVUOT FESTIVAL SERVICES The festival of Shavuot celebrating Matan Torah, the giving of the Torah, will be observed on Saturday night, May 23rd; Sunday, May 24th; and Monday, May 25th. Saturday evening, May 23....................... 8:00

pm

Sunday morning, May 24.........................9:00

am

Monday morning, May 25.......................9:00 am . Yizkor (Memorial Prayers) following sermon at 10:30 FOR OUR YOUTH: SUNDAY AND MONDAY 10:15 am -10:45 am...... Pro-Neg (Board Room) 10:45 am - 12:00 pm..... Torah for Tots (Wiener Lounge) Family Kehillah Service (Goldberger Chapel) 7

am

Limmud Programs for May Saturday, May 2 Saturday, May 2 Sunday, May 3 Tuesday, May 5 Thursday, May 7 Thursday, May 7 Thursday, May 7 Thursday, May 7 Thursday, May 7 Thursday, May 7 Saturday, May 9

10:30 am 1:00 pm 6:00 pm 8:00 pm 10:00 am 6:30 pm 7:00 pm 7:30 pm 8:00 pm 8:30 pm 8:30 am

Saturday, May 9 Sunday, May 10 Thursday, May 14 Thursday, May 14 Thursday, May 14 Thursday, May 14 Thursday, May 14 Thursday, May 14 Saturday, May 16 Saturday, May 16 Thursday, May 21 Thursday, May 21 Thursday, May 21 Thursday, May 21 Thursday, May 21 Thursday, May 21 Saturday, May 23

1:00 pm 6:00 pm 10:00 am 6:30 pm 6:30 pm 7:30 pm 8:00 pm 8:30 pm 10:30 am 1:00 pm 10:00 am 6:30 pm 6:30 pm 7:30 pm 8:00 pm 8:30 pm 9:00 pm

Thursday, May 28 Thursday, May 28 Thursday, May 28 Thursday, May 28 Thursday, May 28 Thursday, May 28

10:00 am 6:30 pm 6:30 pm 7:30 pm 8:00 PM 8:30 pm

Shabbat Discussion, with Jack Gruenberg Daf Shevui Israeli Dancing, with Cantor Uri Aqua Torah on Tap, with Rabbi Dorsch (Off-Site) WAJE: Talmud Class Ulpan Beginners, with Miri Ben Avi Talmud Class, with Rabbi Dorsch Ulpan Intermediate, with Miri Ben Avi Choir, with Hazzan Ellen Arad Ulpan Advanced, with Miri Ben Avi A Modern Understanding of the Bible, with Rabbi Blumenfeld Daf Shevui Israeli Dancing, with Cantor Uri Aqua WAJE: Talmud Class Spring Film Festival Ulpan Beginners, with Miri Ben Avi Ulpan Intermediate, with Miri Ben Avi Choir, with Hazzan Ellen Arad Ulpan Advanced, with Miri Ben Avi Shabbat Discussion, with Jack Gruenberg Daf Shevui WAJE: Talmud Class Spring Film Festival Ulpan Beginners, with Miri Ben Avi Ulpan Intermediate, with Miri Ben Avi Choir, with Hazzan Ellen Arad Ulpan Advanced, with Miri Ben Avi Beth El Tikkun Leil Shavuot Late Night Study Session (Off-Site) WAJE: Talmud Class Spring Film Festival Ulpan Beginners, with Miri Ben Avi Ulpan Intermediate, with Miri Ben Avi Choir, with Hazzan Ellen Arad Ulpan Advanced, with Miri Ben Avi

Ulpan classes are taught by Miri Ben Avi. Questions? E-mail miriulpan@gmail.com, or 914-602-1503. For WAJE classes, e-mail WAJE@wjcouncil.org, or 914-325-7001. For all other programs, contact Rabbi Dorsch, jdorsch@bethelnr.org 914-235-2700, ext. 260.

Please join us on May 2nd, at 12:45 pm, to sing some Shabbat morning favorites. 8

“A Modern Understanding of the Bible” Rabbi David L. Blumenfeld, Ph.D. (Near Eastern Literature and Languages)

“The Ruth Scroll”

May 9th

8:30 am - 9:30 am in the Board Room

The beautiful bucolic narrative of Ruth reminds us of the Torah’s true essence­—namely, the virtue of “chesed” (loving-kindness). It also is the source to the claim that King David and the Messiah of Christianity were Ruth’s direct descendants. Additionally, Ruth is seen as the prototypical convert to Judaism. There will be discussion of these features and other aspects of the scroll/book, offering contemporary insights. All are welcome.

Yiddish Vinkl Fridays, at 1:00 pm All are welcome! We all enjoy speaking mamalochen! Join us every Friday! Speak Yiddish, shmooze, and have fun! For further information, contact Bea Freedman, 914-337-8645.

Our Seniors in Action—at Zumba and listening to a speaker

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE NORTH END SENIORS PROGRAM Friday, May 1

Exercise with Cheryl, 10:30 am What is the Job of the Person You Pick to Act on Your Behalf. Guest Speaker Sara Meyers, Esq., 11:15 am

Wednesday, May 6

Yoga with Polly, 10:30 am

Friday, May 8

Zumba with Julie, 10:30 am Couch tour of Cambodia and Viet Nam. Guest speaker Amy Greenberg, 11:30 am

Wednesday,May 13 Tai Chi with Norma, 10:30 am Woman’s Health Issues. Guest speaker Jennifer Nirenberg Friday, May 15

Exercise with Cheryl, 10:30 am Brain Games with Cheryl, 11:00 am

Wednesday, May 20 Yoga with Polly, 10:30 am Current Events with Shari, 11:30 am Friday, May 22

Zumba with Julie, 10:30 am The Bioethics Dilemma Part II. Guest Speaker Joyce Kent, 11:30 am

Wednesday, May 27 Tai Chi with Norma, 10:30 am Friday, May 29

Exercise with Cheryl, 10:30 am

All seniors are welcome to attend any of these programs. Programs are subject to change.

MEMORIES TO GO: OUR STORIES ABOUT THE TWENTIETH CENTURY The Festival of Shavuot The festival of Shavuot marks the end of the counting of the omer, which began on the second night of Passover. It is a multi-dimensional holiday, embracing both spiritual and agricultural blessings. On Shavuot, we renew our acceptance of God’s gift of the Torah and, it is said, that God re-gives the Torah to us each year on this holiday. I always thought that Shavuot should be considered one of our most important festivals because it commemorates God’s revelation to our people of the ways that are to guide us in our daily lives. We are told that God offered the Torah to other groups of people before offering it to us. I wonder about their reasons for rejecting it. Were they rejecting the concept of one God or did they find the Torah’s rules and regulations too difficult? The gift of the Torah, like many gifts, carries responsibilities and obligations. When I think about everything that the Torah requires of us, I think about the

implications of accepting a gift, any gift, whether it is large or small. Many of us have received gifts from friends at one time or another that seem uncomfortably expensive for the occasion or inappropriate in some way. Sometimes a gift can make us feel embarrassed or stressed or it can create more trouble than it is worth. For example, a friend of mine once received a gift of a car from her grandparents for graduation. She was delighted with the gift, but soon learned that there were strings attached. Her grandparents expected her to drive them around at all hours of the day, and she eventually found that her schedule revolved around their driving needs. Gifts can also represent symbolic tokens of power. My cousin once accepted the help of a good friend during a family crisis. The friend kindly helped with many household needs. It was a generous contribution and much appreciated. However, in a matter of time, the friend began to make certain demands in exchange, while reminding my 9

cousin of all that she had done for her in the past. Gifts like these, while given freely, come with an expectation of reciprocity, which may be hard to quantify. While the Torah is a wonderful gift for the Jewish people, it is a gift that has committed us to a great many responsibilities. These responsibilities are carried from generation to generation. While the reward is God’s eternal devotion to us, and a land of our own, we must continue to pledge our eternal loyalty to our God and, as we all know, this has proven to be a dangerous challenge for the Jewish people over centuries of persecution. by Ruth Kon

Ruderman Inclusion Action Community— A Culture of Inclusion

You probably know that our main sanctuary has reserved space for wheelchairs as well as a chair lift to the Bimah, and that large-print prayerbooks and personal amplification devices are available to anyone who would benefit. No doubt you are aware that we have an elevator, and handicapped-accessible bathrooms. Sign language interpreters for Hebrew and English are provided on the High Holidays, and as needed. Several Jewish women with developmental disabilities frequently attend Shabbat morning services with us and have become valued members of our community. Did you also know that Religious School students with special needs are integrated into the classroom, and we employ a learning specialist who works with individual students, but also consults with and teaches our faculty so that they can provide individualized learning programs? Did you know that our Nursery School is implementing a partnership with occupational and speech therapists who will provide free assessments for all of our preschoolers, and educate our nursery school teachers on how to best address our youngest congregants’ needs? I learned all this and more after becoming Beth El’s lay representative to the Ruderman Inclusion Action Community. The Ruderman Foundation is a family foundation whose mission is to promote greater inclusion of individuals with physical or developmental disabilities in all aspects of Jewish life. It has partnered with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ) to create a network of Conservative synagogues, each of which will be planning and implementing different projects to address inclusion. Our congregation’s

inspiring progress toward greater inclusion was recognized on a national level when USCJ selected Beth El Synagogue Center to be part of this exciting new initiative. Each congregation selected has broad latitude to undertake whatever would best address its needs. The synagogues’ representatives gathered in March to share our successes and challenges thus far, and to learn from one another. In November the group will meet again at the national USCJ convention. We will present to the larger conference what we have done to enhance inclusion. We should all be proud of what we have accomplished thus far, but there is so much more to be done. With the backing of all the clergy and the professional and lay leadership, Rabbi Dorsch is spearheading an effort to create a pervasive culture of inclusion throughout Beth El. Energized by the first Ruderman conference, Rabbi Dorsch and I met with a small group of congregants to brainstorm about where we need to go from here. Great ideas surfaced, but in order to accomplish anything meaningful, we must first assess what challenges our members face. We need your help to be successful! Each Beth El family was sent a brief survey. Please look for it in your e-mail (or snail mail if you are not online). We need you to complete that survey thoughtfully, but rapidly. Your responses will help us prioritize where to first focus our energies. Feel free to contact any member of our committee with your thoughts or suggestions. Elise Richman(eliserichman@gmail. com, 914-472-8735) Other committee members include Rhona Aronstein, Beth Fisch Cohen, Rabbi Josh Dorsch, Judy Schmeidler, Judy Schwartz, Jen Vegh, Debbie Young.

SINGLES EVENT—OVER SIXTY & SINGLE? COME AND MINGLE! Tuesday evening, May 19th 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm

Join us for Wine and Cheese

at the Jewish Community Center of Harrison, 130 Union Avenue, Harrison, NY R.S.V.P. to Ronni Metzger, 914-835-2850, ext. 105, or Phyllis Kelly, 914-472-3300, ext. 423. Questions? Contact Julie Rockowitz at jrockowitz@bethelnr.org. Sponsors: Beth El Synagogue Center; Jewish Community Center of Harrison; Jewish Community Center of Mid-Westchester; Congregation Kneses Tifereth Israel ; Community Synagogue of Rye; Temple Israel Center of White Plains ; and Congregation Emanu-El.

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Special Needs Seder At this time of year, we connect to our people in so many ways—reminders of our Exodus from Egypt, from slavery to freedom; commemorations held for Holocaust remembrance; joy for Israel’s independence. For me, one of the most meaningful times of connection is the Special Needs Seder, which was held on Monday, March 23rd. This annual event connects many segments of our Beth El community with Westchester Jewish Community Services and those whose special needs often have them overlooked in times of community celebration. Developmentally challenged young and older adults come together to celebrate freedom, unity, and community together with those volunteers from our synagogue who give of themselves in a most meaningful way. Teens and adults prepare, serve, and help lead and guide the guests at our almost twenty tables, which are decorated by our Religious School students. A volunteer klezmer band plays and we all dance with joy over our people’s freedom from slavery and our becoming a Jewish people. Our clergy participate with vigor and enthusiasm. This year, there was a special presentation to Rabbi Sirner for his starting the Seder all those years ago, and whose caring and compassion with and for our guests is a model for us all. Guests recited poetry and gave speeches in his honor. Community is an often-used word, but at the Special Needs Seder all those who attend feel it viscerally. May we all go from strength to strength, from year to year, with this unique happening and a major thank you to all who participate in it with joy and dedication. Sandy Gruenberg Ellen Gelboim Co-Chairs Right, Brenda Klein helping attendee. Below, Rabbi Sirner dances with Emily Zimmerman (in red).

Men’s Club News O u r a n n u a l D r. E d Scharfman Men’s Club Shabbat will be held on May 2nd. Please join us for this moving service, led by members of the Beth El Men’s Club. We look forward to seeing you there. Our Spring Blood Drive will be held at Temple Israel of New Rochelle, 1000 Pinebrook Boulevard, on Sunday morning, May 17th, from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm. Mark your calendars! Please register at bethelnr. org/blooddrive to sign up for a time slot. “Walk-ins” are also welcome. Please call the office with any questions (Alise at 914-2352700, ext. 223), or send an e-mail to Mitch Kaphan at BENRblooddrive@gmail.com. We are pleased to announce that our summer baseball outing will take place on Sunday, August 2, at 1:00 pm, in Brooklyn at MCY Park. We will see the Brooklyn Cyclones (Mets) battle the Batavia Muckdogs (Marlins). All you Cyclone and Muckdog fans will have a chance to catch them live and experience minor league baseball, a true piece of Americana. As an added bonus, if you park in their lot, you can hang out at the Coney Island Beach and Boardwalk before or after the game. Tickets are only $18 each and include a Cyclones cap. Please contact Rob Weber at 1topgum@ gmail.com to reserve your tickets now. Finally, Men’s Club congratulates our Youths of the Year—Aaron Afran and Kayla Sullivan, who were honored on April 26th, at the 12th Annual Chavayrim Kol Yisrael Awards Dinner of the Hudson Valley Region of the Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs. We are so proud of them both. Please join us for a bagel and shmear at Men’s Club’s monthly meeting on Sunday, May 17th at 9:00 am. This meeting will be held at Temple Israel of New Rochelle in conjunction with the Blood Drive. We will discuss planning and any ideas you have for events next year. Give us your ideas and then stay for the Blood Drive. Rob Levine and Steven Young Co-Presidents

9:45

JOIN THE RETIREES TUESDAY, MAY 12th am

Coffee and Schmooze with the News led by Ed Pressman

Adjunct Lecturere at Westchester Community College $3 per person

TUESDAY, MAY 26th

Join us for lunch at Ben’s Kosher Deli at 12:30 as we honor

pm

JONAH ATLAS, JERRY GOTTLIEB, AND DR. LESTER ZIMMERMAN

for their years of dedication to the Retirees Group Ben’s is at 718 Central Park Avenue, Scarsdale, NY 10583

$25 per person (must be paid in full by Friday, May 15th) Send your check, payable to Beth El Synagogue Center, to 1324 North Avenue, New Rochelle, NY 10804, or drop off cash at Beth El. Need a ride? Contact Julie at jrockowitz@bethelnr.org, or 914-235-2700, ext. 256. New to the Retirees Group? You’ll love the food and the company can’t be beat.

SUNDAY, JUNE 14th

Join the SMART* people for a tour of the

Meet at Beth El 9:30

am

We will travel by coach bus and return to Beth El by 5:00 pm. Limited seats available. Wear comfortable walking shoes. After the self-guided tour, we will have lunch at a restaurant.

Questions? Call Julie at 914-235-2700, ext. 256. R.S.V.P. by May 15th. Check payable to Beth El Synagogue Center. Beth El Members: $60 (after May 15th, $65) Community Member: $65 (after May 15th, $70) * SMART = Senior Mature Adults Retired Together

Sign up for a time slot at bethelnr.org/blooddrive “Walk-ins” are welcome. Questions? Call Alise at 914-2352700, ext. 223, or e-mail Mitch Kaphan at BENRblooddrive@gmail.com. 11

SISTERHOOD Sisterhood Scene As I write this, I am in the midst of cleaning up after our Passover s’darim. For me (and I hope for all of you) it was a busy, but wonderful, time spent with family and friends. In addition to the dishes, there are also the sheets and towels of our visitors that will need to be washed. (And also, in my house, the doggie bowls for the grand-dog, stored away and ready for the next visit.) No matter how much work is involved, I am thankful for the blessings that this holiday brings. Our Sisterhood members are busy as always. I hope that you are reading this prior to our semi-annual Tag Sale on Sunday, May 3rd, and that you can make the time to shop. Our Tag sale chairperson, Miriam Schwarz, has a much-admired ability to turn one person’s trash into another person’s treasures and turn it all into a profit for Sisterhood and Beth El. Your patronage and support are very much appreciated. Although this is the May Bulletin, in order to give Beth El members time to plan, I want to highlight some events that will be occurring in June. On June 6th, Parashat Beha’alotekha, the women of Beth El will have the honor of taking over the service for our Annual Sisterhood Shabbat. Ably chaired by Vicki Fisher, this event will

highlight the varied talents of our members. I am always impressed by the knowledge and expertise that are demonstrated during our Shabbat morning service, and I know you will be too. There are still parts available and many ways that women can participate. Please e-mail Vicki at vkfisher18@gmail. com if you would like to join us in leading the service. Torah readers, in particular, are needed. The event will also honor Sisterhood officers and board members as we install them that morning. In June, we will honor our immediate past Sisterhood president, Anita Better. More detailed information will follow, together with a formal invitation, but I invite you to mark your calendars for the evening of Thursday, June 18th, when we will celebrate Anita at our annual Spring Gala. I have worked with Anita on many Sisterhood projects over the years, and have been impressed by her hard work and dedication. All Beth El members owe her a debt of gratitude for her contributions to our synagogue community. As always, you are invited to participate in our ongoing book groups, card games, and other activities noted on this page and the next, with contact information. Feel free to call or e-mail with questions. Barbara Horowitz, Sisterhood President

SISTERHOOD’S SPRING GALA THURSDAY EVENING, JUNE 18 honoring

ANITA BETTER 6:00 pm Cocktails • 7:00 pm Dinner Couvert $75 per person • R.S.V.P. by June 2 Sponsorships, which include one dinner reservation plus raffles, are available. Questions? Contact co-chairs Rita Kaufman at rita.kaufman@gmail.com, or Ellen Hollander at ellenarts@optonline.net.

E

v

en

JOIN US

in

g

THURSDAY, MAY 14th 7:30 pm • at beth el

FOR OUR EVENING BOOK CLUB

We will discuss The Apprentice, by Maggie Anton. Questions? E-mail Erica Epstein at mmleepstein@gmail.com, or Cynthia Glickman at tanman911@verizon.net.

NEW ROCHELLE CHAPTER OF HADASSAH is honored to present award-winning author

GLORIA GOLDREICH

featuring her newest book,

The Bridal Chair Monday, May 18th

Light lunch 12:30 pm; Program 1:00 pm The reviews are awesome— “In prose as painterly and evocative as Chagall’s own dazzling brushstrokes, Gloria Goldreich finely evokes one of the most significant masters of modern art through the discerning eyes of [his] loyally protective daughter.” Cynthia Ozick, award-winning author “An ambitious work by a talented author . . . It is a story of quiet power and provides a fascinating look into the dynamics of a family. This is Goldreich at her best!” RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars Gloria’s novel, Leah’s Journey, won the National Jewish Book Award for fiction in 1979, and her second novel, Four Days, won the Federation Arts and Letters Award. Her other novels include Promised Land, This Burning Harvest, Leah’s Children, West to Eden, Mothers, Years of Dreams, and That Year of Our War. Books will be available for purchase along with a book signing!

At Beth El Synagogue Center • Everyone welcome! 12

About Sistherhood’s Honoree, Anita Better Anita Better was born in the Bronx, New York, to very loving, family-minded parents, who instilled kindness and a sense of giving in their children. While attending New York University, Anita met and married Milton Better, z”l, a wonderful man to whom she was married for fifty-six years. She took time off from school to start her family. Anita completed college and graduate school while working as a college administrator, raising two daughters, and enjoying family life. Daughter Rona and her husband, Steven, live in California and are the parents of Daniel. Daughter Donna and her husband, Steven, live in Port Washington, New York, and have three sons—Michael, Ryan, and Alex. Professionally, Anita was the manager of computing at Lehman College, in the Bronx, for sixteen years. She then was director of office systems at Hunter College, in Manhattan, for fourteen years. Anita then went to work at the Board of Cooperative

Educational Services (BOCES) as project manager for three years. After, she became director of computing for the Eastchester School District for ten years, retiring in 2013. In 1969, the Better family moved to their home on Floren Place, in Scarsdale. The family soon began attending holidays and services at Beth El, where they made many wonderful friends and enjoyed the activities. Anita has served as a vice president of the synagogue. She dedicated many hours to implementing the computerization of both the business office and the library at Beth El. Anita also co-chaired two Dinner Dances and worked on the Simcha Committee for several years, providing beautiful parties to the Beth El community. For the past two years, Anita served as president of Sisterhood. She has co-chaired Sisterhood Galas and was chair of the Sisterhood Torah Fund for two years. Anita now resides in Port Washington, New York, and enjoys her grandchildren, going to the theater and film festivals, and playing canasta and Mah Jong with newlyformed friendships.

Ongoing Programs CARD ROOM, 12:45 pm: Canasta (Mondays) and Mah Jongg (Tuesdays) meet weekly! WALKING CLUB meets every Monday at 9:30 am for a nice easy walk—not a jog. Everyone is welcome! BAGELS & BOOKS BOOK CLUB usually meets on the last Monday of the month, at 9:30 am. Join us on May 18th for The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, by Mark Twain. MI T Z VA H K NI T T I NG meets once a month on Wednesdays. Lessons and supplies are available. Join us on Wednesday, May 27th, at 9:30 am. For information, contact Phyllis at pjf920@verizon.net. QUESTIONS? Contact Arlene Salman at aesalman@aol.com, or 914-235-2485.

Beth El Celebrates May Birthdays

Beth El Synagogue Center would like to extend a “Happy Birthday!” to its members with a birthday in the month of May. Please join us for a birthday celebration at our Kiddush Elizabeth Alderman David Alpert Judith Aronow Marcia Assor Rick Barlis Stephanie Barrett Michele Bedell Rosalyn Bierman David Blumenfeld Yael Brown Benjamin Burton Daniel Burton Dean Chhahira Thomas Cohen Beth Cohen Jacqueline Cohen Barbara Cohen Bernice Coll Sarah Collens Aron Davidowitz Ann Davis Jay Diamond

Julie Dorfman Daniel Efron Robert Ehudin Pablo Esteves Russell Fayer Daniel Feldman Stephen Fishler Herbert Fox Esther Glassman Carrie Goldberg Lynette Goldberg Neil Goldfarb Bari Goldstein Arthur Goldstein Susan Groner Jack Gruenberg Gary Heller David Herlands Gayle Herman Robert Hershkowitz David Herzog Elizabeth Jacobs

luncheon on May 9th. If you have a May birthday, but your name does not appear on the list, we are sorry for the omission and we ask that you contact the synagogue at info@bethelnr.org so that we can update

our records. Please also contact us if you do not wish to have your name appear on our birthday list. (The list reflects our adult members and post-bar/bat mitzvah children up to the age of 21.)

Nadine Jacobson Janet Jakoby Herbert Joffe Grace Kalfus Mitchell Kaphan Mitchel Kaplan Gillian Katz Donna Katz Robert Keltz Michael Kessler Maria Kessler Brandon Klee Samuel Klein Sandy Klein Richard Kling Ruth Kling David Klonsky Rita Krasik Victoria Kulak David Lacher Robert Levine Samuel Levy

Paul Pravda Hilario Ramos Arnold Reifer Jack Renick Barry Richman Deborah Rosenfeld David Rosenstein Mark Sadok Barry Salman Benjamin Salomon Mark Salomon Henrietta Sanford Zachary Scheinfeld Alan Schiller Marjorie Schlosberg Bette Schneidman Dana Schwarcz Harriet Schwartz Jeffrey Schwartz Simeon Schwartz Bertram Schwarz Allison Seiden

Michael Lewis Ira Lippel Andrea Lippel Addison Maidenberg Anita Malina Assaf Maliniak Marianne Mani Alan Scott Marcus Zoe Markovits Jeffrey Matos Nancy Mayerfield David Mendelson Rachel Messinger Mark Mildner Jay Miller Benjamin Morris Sydell Musikar Talia Nagar Robert Patchen Lisa Patchen Jeremy Platek Stuart Prager 13

Martin Silver Mark Smith Scott Solomon Taylor Solomon Diane Solomon Peter Spenser Morris Stampfer Laurence Stein Marcia Stern Lila Stern Marc Straussberg Kayla Sullivan Thomas Sullivan Robert Sussman Judy Wacht Ilisa Wallach Danielle Weiss Jack Wertheimer Frederick Wiener Steven Winik Debbie Young

NURSERY SCHOOL NEWS The children of Beth El Nursery School explored Passover through their senses. You can see from the pictures the variety of experiences engaging them.

PHOTOGRAPHS NOT AVAILABLE FOR WEB VIEWING

JLiFE* Shavuot Celebration FLOWERS, FOOD, AND FUN *JLife is geared toward Kindergarten-aged children and younger.

Thursday, May 21st 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm

at Beth El Synagogue Center

Please park in the back lot, near the playground.

• Plant flowers (bring your own trowel) • Enjoy a hot, dairy dinner and ice cream • Listen to a Story Be sure to register in advance at bethelnr.org/FlowersFoodFun

Torah for Tots

Nursery School Edition

Saturday, May 2nd

10:45 am Supervised Play Time 11:15 am Story Time with the Clergy 11:25 am Shabbat Service Experience with Morah Lori 12:00 pm Lead the congregation in Kiddush and Motzi A family-friendly Kiddush lunch will follow.

Save the date . . .

Thursday, June 4th Ladies Night Out

Questions? Contact Ronnie Becher at nursery@bethelnr.com or 914-235-2700, ext 250; or Shery Rosenstein at srosenstein@bethelnr.org.

sponsored by The Nursery School 14

RELIGIOUS SCHOOL NEWS Religious School News

Even though April was a short month, it was filled with learning. Immediately after the Passover break, our children delved into age-appropriate studies of Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day. We also celebrated Israel with Yom HaZikaron and Yom HaAtzma’ut. Our classes explored the concept of independence as represented by four things—symbol, flag, language, and anthem—and celebrated with Israeli dance. This month we look forward to wrapping up a year of meaningful learning in a new style. Gan-Gesher (K-7th grades) will join together on Thursday, May 21st, immediately following Religious School, for our End-of-Year Showcase. Parents, watch your e-mail for details; you won’t want to miss this! We will also honor our 11th graders and E.L.I. participants on Tuesday, May 26th, with Graduation at 6:30 pm.

RELIGIOUS SCHOOL HIGHLIGHTS Monday, May 4

E.L.I., 5:45 pm-7:00 pm

Thursday, May 7

Art for Alef and Bet Gan-Gesher Educator Meeting

Thursday, May 14

Dorothy Fleishaker Dancing Letters for Alef-Gimel

Sunday, May 17

Tropical Dress Up Day for Rosh Hodesh Sivan

Monday, May 18

E.L.I., 5:45 pm-7:00 pm

Thursday, May 21

Last day of Religious School, followed by End-of-Year Showcase

Tuesday, May 26

Tichon Graduation, 6:30 pm

Thursday, May 28

Educator Appreciation Night 6:00 pm-8:00 pm

Sammy Burton, One of Beth El’s Religious School Ambassadors, shares an PHOTOGRAPHS NOT AVAILABLE FOR WEB VIEWING example of what he loves about our Religious School One noteworthy Beth El Religious School experience I have had occurred just a few weeks ago in my “Hebrew for Speakers” class. I entered Avi Nahumi’s class craving to learn more about the election that just happened in Israel. I asked Mr. Nahumi if we could spend the class discussing the recent election, and he responded in the affirmative. For the next hour, Mr. Nahumi taught me more about Israeli politics than I thought I could ever learn in sixty minutes. As if that were not impressive enough, he also used the lesson to teach me Hebrew words by incorporating Hebrew into his impromptu lesson and helped me to figure out the meanings of those words. Mr. Nahumi’s ability to understand and react accordingly to the intellectual desires of his students serves as a prime example of what all the teachers at Beth El do, which is seamlessly include their students’ passions into their lesson plans. This connection between students and teachers at Beth El creates a wonderful classroom setting in which students are always engaged. I have learned so much about Israel and Judaism throughout my years at Beth El Religious School, not only from a religious view, but also from social, political, and philosophical standpoints.

Beth El Religious School children engaged in experiential learning in the Matzah Factory program, sponsored by the Dorothy Fleishaker Fund.

SHABBAT IN THE PARK Saturday, May 23rd Please meet in the Wiener Lounge at 10:30 am We will walk over to Roosevelt Park together, where we will hold our services.

Follow the Religious School on Twitter! @bethelrelschool 15

Cub Scouts page 19

YOUTH NEWS Jen’s Corner At the end of this English month, we will celebrate the holiday of Shavuot. If you are a follower of my Bulletin articles, you already know that Shavuot is my favorite holiday. I love the idea of a Tikkun Leil (a chance to stay up all night reading), I’m obsessed with dairy foods (the traditional cuisine of Shavuot), and I love spring/summer time (Shavuot celebrates the grain harvest that

Youth Community Update

In addition to Ruach’s Magic Show, Chaverim’s IDF event and Messy Day, Kadima’s Lounge Night, USY’s Passover Late Night, and our Yom HaAtzma’ut Festival at the Mid-Westchester JCC, in Scarsdale, we were especially excited to share in our first Youth Community Family Shabbat. Families with children in kindergarten through twelfth grades joined together for an engaging, interactive Friday night service, followed by a fun, communitybuilding Shabbat dinner. Thank you to Hazzan Gloth and Rabbi Dorsch for their partnership in making this event a success. Don’t forget! May 8th is the deadline to place your orders for the Youth Community Cheesecake Sale. Proceeds from the Cheesecake Sale help us to keep event costs low, hire the highest caliber of youth advisors, and provide unique, engaging, and quality programming for our members. You can help do all of this while enjoying delicious cheesecake! Visit www.bethelnr. org, and search for cheesecake, or stop into the Youth office to place your order.

SAVE THE DATE! THE USYERS ARE COMING! It may seem far away, but save the dates of November 13-15, 2015, when Beth El Synagogue Center will host over 250 USYers and staff for the METNY USY Fall Kinnus. We’ll need your support for housing, food serving, chaperoning and more. It’s sure to be an inspirational weekend for teens, adults, and children alike!

occurs in Israel around this time of year). I also love the spirituality of Shavuot. On this holiday, we celebrate the receiving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. We express gratitude and joy over this text that governs our people. We remind ourselves of the gift of being in a Divine covenant with God. I like to take time over Shavuot and think about the other

gifts I’ve received of late. I’m not talking about chocolates, flowers, and jewelry. I am thinking more about the blessings of family and friends, health and happiness, love and respect. Thank you all for the gifts you’ve given me this year. Wishing you all a Hag Shavuot Sameach! Jen Vegh

BETH EL YOUTH COMMUNITY CHEESECAKE SALE Enjoy delicious cheesecake and support the Beth El Youth Community at the same time! Seven inch cheesecakes are just $18; ten inch cheesecakes are $28. Cheesecakes will be available for pick up during the week of May 18, just in time for Shavuot, which begins on Saturday eveing, May 23rd. Flavors include New York Style Cheesecake, Carrot Spice Layer Cake, Silhouette Cheesecake, Turtle Cheesecake, Brownie Cheesecake, Fruit Cheesecake*, Marble Cheesecake, and Amaretto Cheesecake. Order on line at bethelnr.org/cheesecake. Questions? Contact the Youth Office at 914-235-2700, ext. 247. Thank you for supporting the Beth El Youth Community! * Fruit choices are Cherry, Strawberry, Blueberry, Raspberry, Pineapple.

YOUTH COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS Thursday, May 7

USY Lag B’Omer Event, 6:00 pm-7:30 pm

Thursday, May 14

Rosh Hodesh Girls, 6:00 pm-8:00 pm Cub Scouts, 6:00 pm-7:30 pm

Sunday, May 17

Ruach Field Day, 11:00 am-12:15 pm Chaverim Field Day, 12:00 pm-1:15 pm

Watch your email for information about other upcoming Youth Events!Watch your e-mail for information about other upcoming Youth Events! Beth El Youth Community parents enjoyed a wonderful evening of fun and connections at the Youth Community Parent Night Out at Vintage 1891. 16

MAZAL TOV

MAY YAHRZEIT DATES

The yahrzeit of the following deceased persons permanently inscribed on our Memorial Walls are observed on these dates:

Newsmakers . . . Mazal tov to:

Morris Katz Zelda Fately Saul Friedler David Satenberg Herman Wechsler Arthur Fischler Eileen Katz Ida Sarah Meyerson Philip Turner Isidore Louis Wolf Leon Karp Harry Levin Leonard Lewinsohn Morris Michael Cecelia Rosenberg Florence Friedman Fredericka Kolins Miriam Osofsky Gertrude Greenberg Sadie Anderson Harry Covkin Harry Goodman Gisa Henner Kolman C. Davis Cellock Dreizen Stanley S. Hirsch Gershon Newman Seymour Rosen Bradley Ruttenberg Harry A. Gordon Morris Lapin Vera Cooper Julius Messite Joseph Wagner Beatrice Zoldessy Alex Lefkovic Clara Librett Lyla Arkin

Phyllis and Dr. Harvey Jay upon the engagement of their daughter Becky to Michael Forman, son of Dr. Jerome and Diane Forman; Linda and Dr. Sol Haber upon the marriage of their daughter Dr. Jordana to Dr. Alberto Hazan, son of Raphael and Mercedes Chocron; Laurie and Eric Roth upon the birth of granddaughter ZoĂŤ Danielle, and to parents Jason and Rachel Roth (ZoĂŤ is the greatgranddaughter of our late, longtime member Gertrude Zeehandelaar and her husband, Frederick); Barbara and Dr. Donald Kotler upon the birth of a grandson and to parents Aaron and Melanie Kotler; Shelley Goldring-Silverman and Arnie Silverman upon the Bar Mitzvah of their grandson Miles Saitz, son of Aviva and Ben Saitz; Ron and Mia Mandel upon the birth of a son; Robin and Mitch Kaphan on the engagement of their son Adam to Frances Stein, daughter of Edward Stein and the late Jane Stein; Rosalie and Stanley Cohen upon the bar mitzvah of their grandson Zachary Wallis, and to parents Dr. Darren and Cindy Wallis.

A Warm Beth El Mazal Tov to One and All!!

Kiddush The Kiddush of May 9th will be sponsored by Erica and Daniel Bases in honor of the bat mitzvah of their daughter Hannah Bases. The Kiddush of May 16th will be sponsored by Michelle Sasson and Michael Lenchner in honor of the bar mitzvah of their son Ford Lenchner, and by Beth El Synagogue Center in honor of the aufruf and upcoming marriage of Stephanie Millman and Rabbi Joshua Dorsch. The Kiddush of May 30th will be a special Kiddush celebration, sponsored by Beth El Synagogue Center, honoring Lenore and Rabbi Melvin Sirner.

Interested in Sponsoring a Kiddush? Call Alise Liquorie in the synagogue office, 914-235-2700, ext. 223, or e-mail aliquorie@bethelnr.org.

Welcome to the Beth El Community

1 2 2 3 3 5 5 6 7 7 8 8 8 8 8 9 9 9 10 11 11 12 12 13 13 13 13 13 14 15 15 16 16 16 16 17 17 18

Morris J. Goldstein Abraham Katz Abraham Levine Michael Glick Ida Gross Stella Scheinkman Rebecca Cohn Sylvia Meller Bernard Besen Abraham H. Fab Joseph Simon Philip Brustein Lillian Cornick Bess Hoffer May R. Levinthal Dave Miller Henry Zoldessy David Schaffer Martin Stein Abraham Geffner M. Elliot Jackson Mary Kornfeld Zevi Hirsh Motzkin Ruth D. Pashman Rita Mason Gourdji Rahamin Masri Sarah Mirsky Hyman L. Walfish Margaret Adlowitz Jennie Gordon Reuben Grunauer Nettie Kleppel Allan J. Riefs Herman Strauch Bess Wasserman Morris Feldman Bertha Lerman Alfred Lewis

18 18 18 19 20 20 21 21 22 23 23 25 25 25 25 25 25 26 27 28 28 28 28 28 29 29 29 29 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 31 31 31

CONDOLENCES

The Hart/Newman Family Of New Rochelle Gregory Newman and Susan Hart (rejoined) Blair, 24; Elisabeth, 21; Carlos, 15

We record with sorrow the losses suffered by our members and friends and extend to them our deepest sympathies. Condolences to: David Rudnick upon the loss of his father, Herbert Rudnick; Shirin Stein upon the loss of her father, David Marvi; Elise Schepp upon the loss of her mother, Lenore Cheskin; Joel Jacks upon the loss of his father, Hymie Jacks; Jeff Mittleman upon the loss of his mother, Kenie Mittleman; Barbara Simon upon the loss of her husband, Dr. Allen Simon; Yvette Gordon upon the loss of her husband, Herman Gordon.

The Chorzewski Family Of Scarsdale Michael and Jessica Lily, 4; Maya, 2 17

CONTRIBUTIONS GENERAL FUND

SPECIAL NEEDS FUND

IN HONOR OF:

IN MEMORY OF:

The marriage of Joanna Lowin, daughter of Lynn and Jeffrey Lowin, from Elise and Bob Schepp, Janet Yoskowitz, and Shari and Marvin Chinitz.

Gertrude Davison Weisbrod, beloved mother of Irwin S. Davison, from Geralynn and David Reifer, Shari and Marvin Chinitz, Barbara and Marc Klee, and Elise and Bob Schepp.

Laurie and Eric Roth on the birth of their granddaughter Zoë Danielle, from Shari and Marvin Chinitz. Phyllis and Harvey Jay on the birth of their grandson Benjamin Lewis, from Janet Yoskowitz, and Rochelle Chaiken. Phyllis and Harvey Jay on the engagement of their daughter Becky Jay, from Shari and Marvin Chinitz, and Janet Yoskowitz. Harriet and David Rudnick on the birth of their granddaughter, from Shari and Marvin Chinitz. Meri Schepp, daughter of Elise and Dr. Bob Schepp, on becoming a board-certified doctor of veterinary medicine, from Laura Penn. Stephanie and Gary Heller on the bat mitzvah of their daughter Zoe Heller, from Erica and Larry Epstein. In appreciation for Beth El’s B.E.S.T. Shabbat dinner at the home of Joyce and Mike Wechsler, Barbara Birshtein and Howard Steinman. Lynn Buckvar Keltz on her birthday, from Gabrielle Hecht.

Florence Rossard, beloved sister of Marianne Sussman, from Barbara and Bob Cohen, Elise and Bob Schepp, Barbara and Marc Klee, and Debbie and Steven Young. Herbert Rudnick, beloved father of David Rudnick, from Shari and Marvin Chinitz, Elise and Bob Schepp, and Lois Kohn Claar and Gary Claar. David Marvi, beloved father of Shirin Stein, from Geralynn and David Reifer, Elise and Bob Schepp, Debbie and Steven Young, and Lois Kohn-Claar and Gary Claar. Lenore Cheskin, beloved mother of Elise Schepp, from Geralynn and David Reifer, Rochelle Chaiken, Debbie and Steven Young, Mary Salpeter, Allyn Salpeter, Lois Kohn-Claar and Gary Claar, Shari and Marvin Chinitz, Erica and Larry Epstein, and Janet Yoskowitz. Nathan Lefkowitz, beloved father of Helene Goldstein, on his yahrzeit, from Helene and Howard Goldstein.

YOUTH ACTIVITIES FUND

David Lefkowitz, beloved brother of Helene Goldstein, on his yahrzeit, from Helene and Howard Goldstein.

IN MEMORY OF:

YAHRZEIT/YIZKOR DONATIONS

Joel A. Cohen, beloved father of Steven Cohen and Nancy Chhahira, on his yahrzeit, from Steven Cohen. Lenore Cheskin, beloved mother and grandmother of the Schepp family, from Linda and Harvey Heir, Norma Wasserman, Debbi and Tom Markovits.

ELEANOR G. BAUMWALD PRAYERBOOK FUND IN HONOR OF: Donna and Abe Bartell on the bar mitzvah of their sons Jesse and Stephen Bartell, from Michelle and Eric Maidenberg.

Barbara and Jay Lerman, David and Barbara Kotler, Bruce and Rita Gilbert, Jack Wertheimer, Zona and Ed Kaufman, Muriel and Leon Geller, Reba Zuckerman, Helen Gruenfeld, Sheila Tanenbaum, Barbara Lerman, Simon and Sheila Cohen, Rachel and Barry Charles, Marjorie Stein, Jody and Dan Burton, Eleanor and Mark Walfish, Alicia Popper and Family, Edward and Beth Halperin, Loretta and Arthur Holland and Family, Elissa Baum, Rita and David Kaufman, Jay Sommer, Susan Masri Lawi, Judy and Bobby Schmeidler, George Tecklin, Leonora Loewentheil, Jeff and Diane Solomon, Sandy Gruenberg, Leon and Barbara Protass, and Bill, Amanda, and Melanie Winters.

THE ANDREW SHAPIRO MEMORIAL FUND

IN MEMORY OF: Lenore Cheskin, beloved mother of Elise Schepp, from Judy and Hy Harary. Herbert Rudnick, beloved father of David Rudnick, from Malcolm and Florence Graff. Florence Rossard, beloved sister of Marianne Sussman, from Elaine and Martin Levitin.

SISTERHOOD MITZVAH FUND IN HONOR OF: Joyce Goldklang on being honored by Torah Fund, from her husband, Jay Diamond. Lynn and Jeff Lowin on the marriage of their daughter Joanna, from Joyce and Michael Wechsler, and Sandy and Jack Gruenberg. Marcia Assor on being honored by Torah Fund, from Risa Ryger and Peter Wasserman. Edith Geisinger on her ninetieth birthday, from Sandy and Jack Gruenberg. Rachelle and Steven Stern on the marriage of their daughter Sara, from Jack and Sandy Gruenberg. Dr. Abe and Donna Bartell on the b’nai mitzvah of their sons Stephen and Jesse, from Jack and Sandy Gruenberg. Phyllis and Dr. Harvey Jay on the birth of grandson Benjamin, from Naomi Raber. IN MEMORY OF: Moshe Shahar, beloved brother of Avi Shahar, from Carole and Jeffrey Graham. Herbert Rudnick, beloved father of David Rudnick, from Blanche Fried, Marjorie Schlosberg, Joan and Jonah Atlas, and Joyce and Michael Wechsler. Florence Rassard, beloved sister of Marianne Sussman, from Joyce and Michael Wechsler. Lenore Cheskin, beloved mother of Elise Schepp, from Michelle and Eric Maidenberg, Rita and David Kaufman, Blanche Fried, Eunice and Sol Kaplan, Joyce and Michael Wechsler, and Joan and Jonah Atlas. The daughter of Lea Ferstenberg, from Sandy and Jack Gruenberg.

IN HONOR OF: Sam Schiller, son of Naomi and Alan Schiller, on his receiving the Andrew Shapiro Memorial Award, from Judy Shapiro.

IN HONOR OF: Lester Zimmerman, from Valerie Rudolph.

Dr. Allen Simon, beloved husband of Barbara Simon, from Blanche Fried, and Miriam Rabin.

Eunice and Sol Kaplan on their sixty-fifth wedding anniversary, from Judy Shapiro.

ZARO SENIOR PROGRAMMING FUND

IN MEMORY OF:

IN HONOR OF:

Andrew Shapiro on what would have been his forty-ninth birthday, from Judy Shapiro.

Stanley Galler on his special birthday, from Roberta and Marvin Galler. 18

Rabbi Zev Platek, beloved father of Jeremy Platek, from Sandy and Jack Gruenberg. Herman Gordon, beloved husband of Yvette Gordon, from Blanche Fried, Miriam Rabin, Carol and Paul Friedman, and the Summer Reading Group.

CONTRIBUTIONS SYLVIA AND ROBERT SCHER CHESED COMMUNITY FUND

HAZZAN DISCRETIONARY FUND

RABBI’S DISCRETIONARY FUND

IN HONOR OF:

In honor of the marriage of Jordana Haber and Alberto Hazan.

Barbara and David Horowitz on the engagement of their son Michael to Maria Gadja, from Nora Klion-Wolloch.

PTA ISRAEL TRAVEL STUDY FUND

Av Rivel in memory of Diane Hirsch; Leon and Muriel Geller in appreciation to Caryl Fuchs; Richard and Judith Aronow in honor of the baby naming of granddaughter Carmalit Eva; Deborah Gerstein in memory of her father upon his yahrzeit; Helene and Howard Goldstein in appreciation to Rabbi Sirner; Arthur and Loretta Holland in memory of Louis Holland; Richard Wolloch in honor of Rabbi Sirner’s retirement; Jay Sommer in honor of the engagement of David and Barbara Horowitz’ son Michael, and the marriage of Sol and Linda Haber’s daughter Dr. Jordana; Eileen Kisluk in honor of Stanley Galler; Jack and Faye Gingold in honor of the twenty-fifth anniversary of Steve Gruenstein and Lynn Chnitz, the induction of son into Tzahal, and in memory of Herbert Rudnick; Arleen and Herb Zuckerman in memory of Sylvia and Walter Klee; Cynthia and Jeff Glickman in memory of Lenore Cheskin.

Barbara Horowitz for all she does, from Nora Klion-Wolloch. Phyllis and Harvey Jay on the birth of their grandson Bejamin Lewis, from Nora KlionWolloch.

In memory of Lenore Cheskin, mother of Elise Schepp. IN HONOR OF: Barbara and David Horowitz on the engagement of their son Michael, from Sharon and Peter Spenser.

The birth of Asher Saul Gruenberg and Ezekiel Ber, grandsons of Sandy and Jack Gruenberg, from Nora Klion-Wolloch.

TEEN EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE SCHOLARSHIP FUND

The aufruf and marriage of Joanna Lowin, daughter of Lynn and Jeffrey Lowin, to Mark Frank, from Nora Klion-Wolloch.

Sol and Linda Haber on the marriage of their daughter Jordana, from Sharon and Peter Spenser.

Meri Schepp, daughter of Elise and Dr. Bob Schepp, on becoming a board-certified doctor of veterinary medicine, from Nora Klion-Wolloch. RECOVERY OF: Refuah sheilmah to Abe Walfish, from Nora Klion-Wolloch. Refuah sheilmah to Mila Greenberg, from Nora Klion-Wolloch. IN MEMORY OF: Jeanette Winik, beloved mother of Steve Winik, from Nora Klion-Wolloch. Catherine Maloney, beloved mother of Mary DiCarlucci, from Nora Klion-Wolloch. Herbert Rudnick, beloved father of David Rudnick, from Nora Klion-Wolloch. Gertrude Davison Weisbrod, beloved mother of Irwin S. Davison, from Nora Klion-Wolloch. Alice Jacobs, beloved mother of David Altman, from Margo Lampert.

The family of LENORE CHESKIN wishes to thank the entire Beth El community for their love, support, and generosity following the loss of our beloved mother and grandmother. THE SCHEPP FAMILY Elise & Bob Meri, Brooke, & Christian

IN HONOR OF:

THE SELMA AND STANLEY BATKIN RELIGIOUS SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP FUND IN HONOR OF:

THE JEREMY SCHEINFELD MEMORIAL FUND IN MEMORY OF:

Lynn and Jeffery Lowin on the marriage of their daughter Joanna Lowin to Mark Frank, from Ruth Kon, and Sheila Mignone.

Lenore Cheskin, beloved mother of Elise Schepp, from the Jablansky family.

Our son Dylan Tait on his bar mitzvah, from Tamar and Joseph Tait.

David Marvi, beloved father of Shirin Stein, from the Jablansky family.

Thank You to those Cubs who Helped Deliver Passover Packages to Seniors in the Bronx On Sunday, March 22nd, our scouts delivered Passover packages to four apartments in Co-Op City. I think I speak for all of the parents involved when I say that we got even more out of it than the boys. The first place we visited was the home of a ninety-eightyear-old woman who was in her bed. As the boys surrounded her bed, she was overcome with joy at seeing the scouts and that they would take the time to bring her a Passover package. The second woman we visited, who was ninety-seven, was equally thrilled to see us and probably would have cooked us an entire meal if we stayed long enough. The last person was a man named Adolf, who we had met during our Hanukkah package delivery. He sat down and recounted his entire story of leaving Germany just before Kristallnacht and fighting underground in Palestine from age thirteen to seventeen, and then joining the brand new Israeli Army. As he did last time, he kept saying how proud he was for what he did for Israel and he kept imploring us to do everything we could for Israel. We promised them we would return before Hanukkah with more scouts! Yours in scouting, Rob Weber P.S. Thank you to Noah O’Neill who had the original idea to make sandwiches, and Julie Rockowitz for connecting us with this program!

PHOTOGRAPHS NOT AVAILABLE FOR WEB VIEWING

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Where Your Child Comes First Comprehensive Care from Birth to Age 21 Convenient on-site parking Extended evening and weekend hours

State of the Art Pediatric Office Spacious child-friendly waiting area Most insurances accepted

Susan H. Meisler, M.D. • Hilary S. Smith, M.D., Lisa Mandelker, D.O., • Debra Etelson-Mayblum, M.D.

145 Huguenot Street, Suite 200, New Rochelle, NY 10801 Telephone: (914) 235-1400 Fax: (914) 235-1534

www.pasw4kids.com

SAVE THE DATE!

Sunday, May 31st The Westchester Jewish Council invites you to join us at the

2015 CELEBRATE ISRAEL PARADE The founders of Israel had a dream. They imagined a vibrant, independent and Jewish state that would not only be a haven for Jews from all over the world, but also one that would incorporate the best characteristics of its citizens. Today’s Israel is a result of that dream.

11:00

am

- 4:00

pm

along 5th Avenue in Manhattan (between 57th and 74th Streets). For more information, contact Donna at donna@wjcouncil.org, or 914-328-7001. Visit us at www.wjcouncil.org. The Westchester Cluster is lucky to march to the music of

the Westchester Klezmer Program. If you or your child is interested in performing at the parade with the Westchester Marching Band please contact Kenny Green at KGreen@westchesterklez.org, or call 914-276-0497. 20

We’re Serious about Kosher

Kosher, Catered to You!

Top-quality Kosher Selections Throughout Our Stores! Kosher Selections • KOF-K Certified nut butters • Coffee from all over the world roasted on premises certified by KOF-K • Fresh made salads, sandwiches, entrees, rotisserie chickens and more • Glatt Kosher meat and poultry “OU” and/or KOF-K certified

FAIRWAY KOSHER CATERING IS PLEASED TO OFFER

• KOF-K Certified un-filtered barrel olive oils • Made-from-scratch KOF-K Certified baked goods

a delicious, extensive menu to help you serve your guests. Choose from exclusively prepared oven-ready options to ready-to-serve dishes and everything in between!

Kosher Ground Beef We use no fillers, dyes, or anything else. Just simple, high caliber beef, kosher under the strictest supervision of OU and/or KOF-K.

The Biggest and Freshest Selection of Produce We have more fruit on display than most stores sell in a week.

Premises-roasted Coffee Roasted fresh each and every day! The whole fabulous department is certified KOF-K.

Exclusively Imported KOF-K Certified Olive Oils Our divine barrel oils are un-filtered at our direction for extra flavor and fragrance. Our non-barrel oils are also spectacular and carefully chosen by our experts.

Organics Over 10,000 natural and organic foods priced better than that other store.

TO ORDER CONTACT OUR CATERING CONSULTANTS

KOF-K Certified Baked Goods Fresh-baked award winning bagels, baguettes and so much more.

WESTBURY AND PLAINVIEW Jack Wasserman Koshercatering@fairwaymarket.com

POST ROAD PLAZA 847 PELHAM PARKWAY PELHAM MANOR, NY 10803

The authority on great food is under the supervision of Rabbi A. Marmorstein and now KOF-K certified!

914.633.6550 8AM - 10PM DAILY

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Follow us on

22

This offer ends May 31, 2015

This offer ends May 31, 2015

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MANHATTAN | BROOKLYN | QUEENS | LONG ISLAND | THE HAMPTONS | THE NORTH FORK | RIVERDALE | WESTCHESTER/PUTNAM | ASPEN | LOS ANGELES | FLORIDA

DOUGLAS ELLIMAN IS PROUD TO WELCOME

Glorianne Mattesi

Glorianne is a Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker. She brings a refreshing perspective to the business of residential real estate. Glorianne is an award-winning multimillion-dollar Real Estate Professional. For over 20 years, she has enjoyed recognition in the Westchester Real Estate Community as the recipient of numerous Excellence in Real Estate Industry Awards including the Westchester / Putnam Association of Realtors Diamond and Platinum Awards. She’s putting the power of Douglas Elliman to work for her, and for you. Welcome Glorianne!

New Rochelle Market Leader - Listings and Sales Ranked #1 Agent by Sales Volume & Number of Transactions in New Rochelle for 2014 Notary Public

WELCOMEELLIMAN Glorianne Mattesi

Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker 26 Popham Road, Scarsdale, NY, 10583 Direct: 914.393.6990 Glorianne.Mattesi@elliman.com © 2015 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. 26 POPHAM ROAD, SCARSDALE, NY 10583

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The Bristal Assisted Living | Where Ever y Day Means More

TM

I am living a new chapter in my LifeStory “I really care about other people, so I became a nurse as soon as I raised my family. I served as a cardiac, and then, oncology nurse. After I retired, I volunteered in the hospital gift shop because I just couldn’t stay away from the place. My two wonderful sons and my grandchildren visit me all the time and think The Bristal is just about the best place in the whole world. And the staff! Well I couldn’t say enough about how well they treat us.”

Ethel, Resident of The Bristal

For more about Ethel, tune in at thebristal.com/truelifestories

Ask about Reflections an area providing secure and compassionate memory care.

ARMONK | 90 Business Park Drive | (914) 432.8200 WHITE PLAINS | 305 North Street | (914) 681.1800 PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR ALL LOCATIONS IN THE TRI-STATE AREA

THE BRISTAL.COM

LICENSED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH • ELIGIBLE FOR MOST LONG TERM CARE POLICIES

Quality Communities By The Engel Burman Group 26

reTHINK SCHECHTER

RIVERSIDE MEMORIAL CHAPEL

Being a mensch doesn’t just make the grandparents happy.

WESTCHESTER: 21 West Broad Street Mount Vernon, NY 10552

Research confirms that learning to do the right thing with the right attitude leads to stronger academic performance. Schechter Westchester’s K-12 commitment to Jewish character education means our students feel safe, engaged and respected, so they can focus on achieving success – in the classroom, in the lab, on the playing field, and in the world.

914-664-6800

Just off Exit 7 of the Cross County Parkway East

The Source of Support for the Jewish Community since 1897 www.riversidememorialmountvernon.com Charles S. Salomon • Joel E. Simon Continuing to maintain the high service standards of the Rosenthal, Grossberg, and Alpert families

Helping Older Adults Live Forward Since 1917

Meet RiverSpring Health™ For nearly a century, the Hebrew Home at Riverdale has been helping older adults live the fullest lives they can. Today, we’ve grown from our award-winning nursing home into RiverSpring Health, a new brand offering a full range of care solutions including managed long-term care, independent living, assisted living, rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and much more. Learn more about how we can help you live forward at 1.800.56.SENIOR or by visiting riverspringhealth.org.

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IF YOU ARE THINKING OF BUYING OR SELLING IN 2015, PLEASE GIVE ME A CALL.

290 OVERLOOK ROAD, NEW ROCHELLE This stately seven-bedroom brick Colonial is magnificently set on one of the largest and most breathtaking lots in Wykagyl Park. Formal grand entrance, stunning architectural details, endless space for entertaining and relaxing. WEB# NR1108291 | $2,495,000

237 OVERLOOK ROAD, NEW ROCHELLE The ideal fusion of the charm of a classic Tudor with all the brand-new luxuries and efficiencies of a 2015 dream home. Rebuilt to perfection. Still time to customize with visionary Builder. Incredible lot with room for pool. WEB# NR1121659 | $2,375,000

376 BEECHMONT DRIVE, NEW ROCHELLE This fully-renovated and meticulously-restored circa 1924 Georgian Colonial is a celebration of architecture and design. Serenely nestled on over an acre and a half of stunning grounds and gardens, this is truly a majestic retreat. WEB# NR1105803 | $1,599,999

201 TAYMIL ROAD, NEW ROCHELLE Center Hall Colonial on extraordinary, large lot in sought-after Bonnie Crest. This impressive .92 property has room for a pool, tennis court or whatever you can imagine. Opportunity to create your own desired haven. Walk to all conveniences. WEB# NR1137946 | $1,495,000

27 SIEBRECHT PLACE, NEW ROCHELLE Gorgeous Georgian Center Hall Colonial with gracious rooms and grand detailing plus a perfect professional set up with completely private entrance. This versatile property offers endless options. 1725 square feet of finished lower level too. WEB# NR1126339 | $1,175,000

145 VALLEY ROAD, NEW ROCHELLE Best value for a charming, move-in ready, six-bedroom Colonial in sought-after Wykagyl Park. Master bedroom suite boasts a beautiful bath and a huge walk-in closet. Enclosed patio overlooks exquisite property complete with mellifluous brook. WEB# NR1114465 | $849,000

JOCELYN BURTON Real Estate Salesperson Proud Beth El Member

RANKED #1 AGENT IN NEW ROCHELLE LISTING DOLLAR VOLUME Mobile 917.693.3557 | JBurton@houlihanlawrence.com New Rochelle Brokerage | 914.636.6700 ext. 309 HGMLS, 1/1/14–12/31/14, All Property Types, Total Listed Dollar Volume by Agent, New Rochelle School District.

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Steven Guggenheim, Ph.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Specializing in counseling adults regarding:

• Aging and physical illness

…Westchester’s Outstanding Day Camp… in Scarsdale, NY

• Caring for sick loved ones

A SUMMER TRADITION FOR 87 YEARS FOR BOYS AND GIRLS AGES 3-13

• Coping with everyday problems Provider for Medicare & most insurance plans. (914) 714-4426

FOR INFORMATION, CALL (914) 949-8857, OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.CAMPHILLARD.COM One Family

Four Generations

Est. 1929

2039 Palmer Ave. Larchmont

George T Davis Jewish Ad3_625x4_75_Ad 12/11/13 4:24 PM Page 1

An unforgettable simcha

George T. Davis Funeral Home

starts with a classic caterer

Providing quality services at affordable prices.

Gourmet Kosher Catering customized to your taste and theme Exclusive caterer at Beth El Synagogue Center

Chapel Service

Impeccable personal service Complete planning and coordination

$5,385

including traditional orthodox casket

Elegant ~ Tasteful ~ Affordable

Graveside Service including traditional orthodox casket

$4,790

Vincent Fasano, Manager 14 Le Count Place New Rochelle, NY 10801 914-632-0324

Weddings ~ Bar/Bat Mitzvahs ~ Kiddushim Babynamings ~ Brit Milah ~ Fundraising Call for a private, no obligation consultation!

CLASSIC CATERERS 1-845-353-5578

The price of the recommended caskets in the above offerings which include caskets is $795. The caskets included in the above offerings are recommendations only. You are not required to purchase these or any other casket or container as part of this offering. All of the components of these offerings may be purchased separately if you prefer, and pricing will be the same whether purchased separately or as a component of one of these groupings.

tion c e l e s e g e a lar foods! v a h e W ared p e r p f o

Everyt

hing y

ou nee

d!

Specializing in a complete line of Kosher Meats, Provisions, Cooked Foods & Specialty Groceries. We have a full-service catering department for all your party needs.

1066 Wilmot Road Scarsdale, NY 10583

SEASONSNY.COM Place your order online and either pick it up in the store or have it delivered to your home! E-mail scarsdaleorders@seasonsny.com. 29

Tel: 472-2240 Fax: 472-2215

Ray Catena Lexus of Larchmont and NOEL GREENSTEIN invite you to see our

Luxury Sedans & SUVs

1435 Boston Post Road Larchmont, N.Y.

(914) 833-5000 ngreenstein@raycatena.com

Pretty Paper

Law Office­ of­

& Polka Dots

David Lacher­ Providing experienced legal representation to individuals and the business community ­ Real estate sales & acquisitions­ • • Wills & estate administration­ • LLC & corporate formation; buy/sell agreements­ • Land use & real property development • Governmental relations, lobbying & regulatory affairs • Domestic & international commercial transactions­­­ chase bank building­

270 north avenue, 8th floor­ new rochelle, ny 10801­­ 30

914-355-5900

www.lacherlaw.com­­

MAY 2015 1a SUNDAY

IYAR ~ SIVAN 5775 MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

FRIDAY 1

14 IYAR 4

Sisterhood Tag Sale 8:00 am Zumba 9:30 am

Israeli Dance 6:00 pm

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15 IYAR 5

Canasta 12:45 pm E.L.I. Meeting 5:45 pm Officers Meeting 7:30 pm

Mahjong 12:45 pm Nursery School Board Meeting 7:30 pm Day Camp Orientation 7:30 pm Torah on Tap 8:00 pm (off-site)

22 IYAR 12

Walking Club 9:30 am Canasta 12:45 pm

Israeli Dance 6:00 pm

17 IYAR 7

Seniors 10:30 am

Walking Club 9:30 am Memories to Go 9:30 am

21 IYAR 11

Zumba 9:30 am

16 IYAR 6

Panel Discussion in honor of Rabbi Sirner 7:30 pm

23 IYAR 13

Retirees 9:45 am Mahjong 12:45 pm

Seniors 10:30 am

Sisterhood General Board Meeting 7:30 pm

MOTHERS’ DAY

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28 IYAR 18

Blood Drive 8:30 am (at temple israel nr) Men’s Club Meeting 9:00 am (at tinr) Zumba 9:30 am Ruach 11:00 am Chaverim 12:00 pm

29 IYAR 19

Mahjong 12:45 pm Walking Club 11:30 am Staff Operations Hadassah 12:30 pm Meeting 1:00 pm Canasta 12:45 pm Singles 60 & Mingle 7:30 pm (off-site) E.L.I. Meeting 5:45 pm

6 SIVAN 25

Light after 9:02 pm

1 SIVAN 20

Sisterhood Bagels and Books 9:30 am

YOM YERUSHALAYIM

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ROSH HODESH

7 SIVAN 26

Yom Tov ends 9:03 pm

7:33 pm

20 IYAR

EMOR

Welcoming Chai House Underst. Bible 8:30 am Shabbat SPACE 9:30 am Havurah Serv. 10:00 am Pre-Serv Oneg 10:15 am Youth Services 10:45 am Birthday Shab. 12:00 pm Daf Shevui 1:00 pm

26 IYAR 16

Seniors 10:30 am Cub Scouts 6:00 pm Rosh Hodesh Girls 7:47pm Yiddish Vinkl 6:00 pm 1:00 pm Spring Film Festival 6:30 pm Hebrew Ulpan 6:30 pm Sis. Evening Book Club 7:30 pm Choir Rehearsal 8:00 pm

Shabbat ends 8:45pm

27 IYAR

Shabbat BEHAR/ ends 8:53 pm BEHUKOTAI

Shabbat SPACE 9:30 am Pre-Serv Oneg 10:15 am Shab. Disc. Grp 10:30 am Youth Services 10:45 am Daf Shevui 1:00 pm BIRKAT HACHODESH

2 SIVAN 21

3 SIVAN 22

4 SIVAN 23

5 SIVAN

9 SIVAN 28

10 SIVAN 29

11 SIVAN 30

12 SIVAN

Light Last Day of Seniors 10:30 am Seniors 10:30 am BEMIDBAR after Religious School 9:01 pm Nursery School WAJE: Talmud 10:00 am Yiddish Vinkl 1:00 pm 7:54 pm Shabbat in the Park Kasakove Playdate Rel. Sch. End-of-Year 11:45 am Shabbat SPACE 9:30 am Showcase 5:30 pm Talmud Class Shabbat Pre-Serv Oneg 10:15 am JLiFE/PJ Shavuot Dinner 8:00 pm Youth Services 10:45 am Pre-Meeting Cocktails 4:30 pm (off-site) Daf Shevui 1:00 pm & Schmooze 7:00 pm Kadima 6:00 pm Tikkun Leil Shavuot Film Festival 6:30 pm Annual Meeting Hebrew Ulpan 6:30 pm 9:00 pm (off-site) 8:00 pm Choir Rehearsal 8:00 pm EREV SHAVUOT

8 SIVAN 27

Retirees Luncheon Shabbat SPACE 9:30 am Nursery School Closed 12:30 pm (off-site) Pre-Serv. Oneg 10:15 am Synag. Offices Closed Mahjong 12:45 pm Youth Services 10:45 am Shabbat SPACE 9:30 am SHAVUOT Pre-Serv. Oneg 10:15 am Religious School 31 13 SIVAN Youth Services 10:45 am Tichon Graduation 6:30 pm Israeli Day Parade YIZKOR Zumba 9:30 am SHAVUOT HR Meeting 8:00 pm MEMORIAL DAY Gala 6:00 pm

25 IYAR 15

WAJE: Talmud 10:00 am

Shabbat ends 8:37pm

Men’s Club Shabbat Shabbat SPACE 9:30 am Pre-Serv Oneg 10:15 am Shab. Disc. Grp 10:30 am Youth Services 10:45 am ShabbaTunes 12:45 pm Daf Shevui 1:00 pm

19 IYAR 9

WAJE: Talmud 10:00 am Seniors 10:30 am Nursery School 2s 7:40 pm Parent Teacher Conferences 3:00 pm Yiddish Vinkl 1:00 pm Cub Scouts 4:00 pm Hebrew Ulpan 6:30 pm USY 6:00 pm Bar/Bat Mitzvah Institute Dinner Talmud Class 7:30 pm Choir Rehearsal 8:00 pm 7:00 pm LAG BA’OMER

24 IYAR 14

Connect to Care 10:00 am

18 IYAR 8

13 IYAR

ACHAREI MOT/ KIDOSHIM

B.E.S.T. Nursery Shabbat (off-site)

Visit us on facebook at facebook.com/BethElSynagogueCenter

3

12 IYAR 2

Seniors 10:30 am Yiddish Vinkl 1:00 pm

B’NAI MITZVAH 5/9 Hannah Bases 5/16 Ford Lenchner 5/24 Lucy Kravitz

SHABBAT

Shabbat

Sis. Mitzv Knit 9:30 am NASSO ends 9:08 pm WAJE: Talmud 10:00 am Seniors 10:30 am Cub Scouts 6:00 pm 8:00 pm Special Shabbat Service Spring Film Festival and Kiddush honoring Seniors 10:30 am 6:30 pm Rabbi & Lenore Sirner Yiddish Vinkl 1:00 pm RS Educator Apprec. Shabbat SPACE 9:30 am Night 6:00 pm (off-site) Pre-Serv Oneg 10:15 am Youth Services 10:45 am Hebrew Ulpan 6:30 pm Choir Rehearsal 8:00 pm

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BETH EL SYNAGOGUE CENTER 1324 NORTH AVENUE NEW ROCHELLE, NY 10804-2190

Non Profit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID White Plains, N.Y. Permit No. 925

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Gay E. Rosen Licensed Real Estate Associate Broker ABR, CBR, CDPE, CRS, GREEN, GRI, SRES gay.rosen@juliabfee.com c: 914.907.2645 • Beth El Member for over 25 years • 2015-2013 NYS CRS Public Relations & Communications Chairperson • 2013 Diamond Award Winner • New Rochelle resident for over 35 years • Hardworking, Diligent & experienced

Larchmont Brokerage 1946 Palmer Avenue, Larchmont, NY 10538

Meryl Chassen

SHERY ROSENSTEIN Sales Associate

Personalized attention to you and your needs.

B: (914) 723-8228 C: (914) 420-8556 E: s.rosenstein@yahoo.com W: www.clairedleone.com

29 Wilmot Road Scarsdale, NY 10583

JOCELYN BURTON – RANKED #1 AGENT IN NEW ROCHELLE LISTING DOLLAR VOLUME

Sales Associate

Proud Beth El Member and New Rochelle Resident

Prudential

Wykagyl/Rittenberg Realty 1299 North Avenue New Rochelle, NY 10804

Bus: 914 632-9100 Cell: 914-420-7877 Top Producer Over the Last Several Years

An independently owned and operated member of The Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc.

Jocelyn Burton

Real Estate Salesperson

jburton@houlihanlawrence.com Mobile: 917.693.3557 NEW ROCHELLE BROKERAGE 1 5 Quaker Ridge Road New Rochelle, New York 91 4.636.6700 ext.1 9309 HGMLS, 1/1/14–12/31/14, All Property Types, Total Listed Dollar Volume by Agent, New Rochelle School District.