Beth El Synagogue. Kol The Voice of Beth El. Beth El Welcomes Jewish Theater Artist Jonathan Adam Ross

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1 Beth El Synagogue Your home for Conservative Judaism Vol. XLII 3 Kislev - Tevet 5772 December 2011 Kol The Voice of Beth El Beth El Welcomes Jewish Theater Artist Jonathan Adam Ross The weekend of December 16-18, our congregation is in for a unique and special treat, as Beth El welcomes Jewish performance artist Jonathan Adam Ross as the Dr. Leon Fellman Scholar-in-Residence. A renowned theater artist, Jon, 31, has created original works in both the commercial and educational spheres. Holder of a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Acting from New York University s Tisch School of the Arts, he is currently on tour with his new solo show, God of Our Fathers, in which he plays all the members of a fictional Jewish family living through a generation of assimilation. His first solo show, Walking in Memphis: The Life of a Southern Jew, has been performed off-broadway and around the world. Among his other credits are portrayals of Grandpa/German in Fourplay (Ripple Theater Company); Thomas Denny in Pyrates! (Theater for the New City); Schwartz in The Jewbird; and Atticus Finch in the Experimental Theatre Wing s Looking for Boo Radley: An Adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird. continued on page 7 Celebrate Hanukkah during our Congregational Dinner Celebrate the Festival of Lights with your Beth El family during a special congregational dinner on Sunday, December 25, at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Men s Club, the evening will feature games and activities for children, and for dinner, chicken, latkes and all the trimmings! Dinner is free for Beth El members and $5 for non-members. Reservations are needed by December 9 and may be made by ing programming@bethel-omaha.org.. Learn About Jewish Prague With Our Scholar-in-Residence Rabbi Ron Hoffberg, who is credited with creating a Conservative Jewish presence in the Czech Republic s capital city of Prague, will serve as Beth El s first annual Beverly and Richard Fellman Presidential Scholar-in- Residence on December 3 and 4, at the synagogue. On Saturday, December 3, during Shabbat services, the rabbi will speak about Jews in Central Europe: Legacies of the Past. Afterward, a special Kiddush luncheon will be served, featuring Czech fare, borscht, schnitzel, Israeli salad and a variety of strudels. During the luncheon, Rabbi Hoffberg will explore Czech Files: Inspirational Stories of Jews Returning to Judaism. There is no charge for lunch, but for planning purposes, reservations are needed by November 30. Finally, on Sunday at 11 a.m., the rabbi will offer a multimedia presentation revealing The Magic of Jewish Prague. For more information about the scholar-in-residence weekend or to RSVP for the luncheon, contact Margie in the synagogue office, or at programming@bethelomaha.org. Join Us for Havdalah Under the Stars Mark Saturday, January 14, on your calendar and join us for Havdalah Under the Stars at UNO s planetarium an out-of-this-world experience for our entire congregation, featuring a special program for families with young children, a delicious dessert reception, and much, much more! Watch for details in your January Kol.

2 Hanukkah: What Happened to the Menorah? by Rabbi Mordechai Levin Hanukkah is the festival which celebrates the regaining of Jewish religious and political independence in the land of Israel. Our ancestors liberated Jerusalem from Greek occupation in 164 B.C.E. When they entered the temple they found enough olive oil to fuel the menorah - the sevenbranched candelabrum - for one day. But according to a well-known legend, the one-day supply of oil lasted for eight days. So, what happened to the menorah? Was it lost? Was it destroyed? Does it remain misplaced in some forgotten place? According to the Torah, around 3,200 years ago Moses was told by God to make a seven-branched candelabrum to be put inside the tabernacle in the desert (Exodus 25:31-40, 37:17-24). Later, the menorah was placed in the temple of Jerusalem by King Solomon in 965 B.C.E. (1 Kings 7:49). When the Babylonians conquered the land of Israel and destroyed Jerusalem in 586 B.C.E., the original menorah seems to have been lost. It is not mentioned among the spoils taken by the Babylonians. A few decades later, under the leadership of Ezra and Nehemiah, our ancestors returned to Israel and began to rebuild the temple with a new menorah. In 168 B.C.E, the temple was looted by the Greeks who took away the menorah. In 164 B.C.E., the Maccabeans liberated Jerusalem, cleansed the temple and made new holy vessels, among them the menorah. On the 25 of Kislev of the same year, the candles were lit in the new menorah, and the joyful celebrations of Hanukkah continued for eight days. When Jerusalem was destroyed by the Romans in 70 C.E., the menorah and other temple vessels were taken to Rome. The Arch of Titus has a depiction of the menorah. The Jewish historian Josephus, then in Rome - witnessed the triumphal celebration of Jerusalem s defeat. It was then locked up in Vespasian s Temple of Peace, until the temple was burned by fire in 191 C.E. According to historians, it probably remained with other temple remnants that were taken by the Goths when Rome was destroyed. These were returned to Rome in 534 C.E., during the reign of Justinian, after he had overthrown the Gothic kingdom of Italy. After that, nothing certain is known about it. However, in the 12th century, a Spanish Jew known as Benjamin of Tudela made a trip to Rome and kept a travel diary, in which he claimed to have visited the church of Saint John the Lateran and saw two columns from Jerusalem s Temple. He was apparently told by Rome s Jews that the temple vessels that had been brought to Rome were hidden in a cave in the church. Amazingly, a mosaic in an apse in Saint John the Lateran from 1291 contained a writing declaring the presence there of the Ark of the Covenant, the menorah and the columns. Some people had wondered if the menorah remains hidden in Rome more precisely, in the Vatican. In 1996, Israel s Minister of Religious Affairs, Shimon Shetreet, met with Pope John Paul II, and asked for Vatican cooperation in locating the menorah. I don t say its there for sure, Shetreet said, but I asked the Pope to help in the search as a goodwill gesture in recognition of the improved relations between Catholics and Jews. Witnesses to the conversation reported a tense silence throughout the room after the request was heard. In 2004, the two chief rabbis of Israel, Yonah Metzer and Shlomo Amar, met with the same Pope in the Vatican. Rabbi Amar also asked for help to locate the temple vessels. Others scholars noted there is no basis to believe that the Vatican has been hiding the menorah all these centuries. So, what happened to the menorah? Was it lost? Was it destroyed? Does it remain misplaced in some forgotten place? We do not know for sure. What we do know is that it is the most important symbol of Judaism and the Jewish people, it is the emblem of the State of Israel, and its historical lights illuminate us in every generation with Jewish pride and hope. 1

3 Youth Groups Offer Fun for Kids of All Ages What a busy year so far for Chaverim, Kadima and USY... and we still have so many fun programs planned! Take a peek at some of the activities we enjoyed this past fall: Kadima and USY join forces and learn all about Krav Maga, a form of Israeli self defense. As part of our 2nd-5th Grade Shabbaton, our kids were treated to a fun-filled evening at the JCC pool. BILU USY Board members Alyssa Cohen, Naomi Zipursky, Samantha Weiner, Aaron Zipursky and Brad Kutler attend the Leadership Training Institute in Minneapolis. USYers bake pumpkin pies for donation to the Siena-Francis House. 2

4 December 3 Jr. Congregation (Grades 2-7) 4 Family Assembly, 9:45 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. (Pre-K-7) 6 th Grade Family Education Program, 10:15 a.m. -11:15 a.m. 5 Monday Moadon 7 BESTT classes Annual B nai B rith Bible Quiz, 7 p.m. at the JCC (Grades 9-12) BESTT 8 th Grade classes, 6:45 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. 10 Jr. Congregation, (Grades 2-7) 11 Family Assembly, 9:45 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. (Pre-K-7) 12 Monday Moadon BESTT Calendar December Youth Activities USY: Thursday, December 1, 7 p.m. 9 p.m., USY Lounge Night; dinner provided. Friday, December 9, USY Kabbalat Shabbat service. USYers will lead services; USY tunes will be sung; service is for all youth group members and their families. Dinner will be served following services.* Saturday, December 17, 7 p.m. 9:30 p.m.: All USYers are invited to Rabbi Steven s house, Franklin St., for a special program featuring Beth El s artist-in-residence, Jonathan Adam Ross. No charge to attend; please RSVP to Shiri by December 13. KADIMA: Sunday, December 4, 1 p.m. 2:30 p.m., Kadimaniks will enjoy ice skating at Tranquility Ice Plex. Drop-off and pick-up at skating rink. Cost: $5 for admission*; bring money for snacks. CHAVERIM: 14 BESTT classes BESTT 8 th Grade classes, 6:45 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. 17 Shabbat s Cool #2, with special appearance by Jonathan Adam Ross (Grades PK-7) 18-31BESTT winter break; no classes or Jr. Congregation January 1-4 No BESTT classes (winter break) 7 Jr. Congregation (Grades 2-7) 8 BESTT classes resume (K-7) Family Assembly, 9:45 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. Sunday, December 4, 3 p.m. 4:40 p.m., we ll enjoy an afternoon at Sempeck s Bowling Alley, Cumberland Dr. Drop-off and pick-off at the venue. Cost*: $7. Sunday, December 18, 12:30 p.m. 1:30 p.m., Chaverim board meeting in the West Court. Lunch will be served. *RSVP by contacting Shiri in the synagogue office, or at youthdir@bethel-omaha.org. Lifelights Booklets Offer Support, Guidance For individuals struggling with grief, depression and other emotional difficulties, Beth El offers Lifelights: Help for Wholeness & Healing, a series of pamphlets offering guidance and support from a Jewish perspective. These booklets, made available by Jewish Lights Publishing, cover a wide range of topics and offer comfort, advice and additional resources for help. Please look for the Lifelights display in our community court. 3 Judy Rubin Announces Her Retirement as BESTT Education Director After eight years serving as Beth El s Education Director, Judy Rubin has announced that she will retire from her position at the end of July Citing her organizational prowess and depth of knowledge of Judaism, Bev Fellman, president of Beth El s Board of Trustees, noted that Judy put our Talmud Torah on a good path after finding it in need of better structure. In a statement to the congregation, Bev and BESTT Committee chairman Joel Rich stated, Judy has been the Education Director since July During that time she has done much to improve the structure of the school and to develop an excellent faculty and curriculum. We are grateful to her for her many contributions to the education of our children and thank her for them. As a mother and grandmother, Judy told us that she wishes to be closer to her immediate family and be a greater part in their lives. She indicated she will be moving to the east coast to be with them and to continue her professional career. We hope you will join us in wishing Judy the best for her future. The congregation will formally recognize Judy in the spring. Weather or Not No matter the weather, it's impossible to set the thermostats at the synagogue to everyone's liking. Depending on where you sit in the sanctuary, you may feel a draft or too much heat. We encourage you to dress appropriately (and bring a sweater if you get chilly easily), so you can control your own comfort.

5 Don t Miss Our Annual Judaica Shop Sale From brightly-colored dreidels and graceful hanukkiyot to unique Judaica items for all occasions, Beth El s Judaica Shop is the one stop for every holiday need. And, as a bonus for all lucky patrons, the shop is holding a special sale from now through December 14, so shop NOW you ll want to take advantage of the unbeatable discounts. Everything in the shop will be at least 10 percent off: all solid-gold jewelry will be 30 percent off, and a variety of items will be up to 75 percent off. And remember, our Judaica Shop is also online, so you can shop from the comfort of your home! Visit Be sure to take a look at the beautiful mezuzot, tallitot, Shabbat candlesticks, books and other distinctive offerings, and feel good in knowing that proceeds from each purchase goes to support Beth El and the terrific programming and services offered to the congregation. Sale hours are: Wednesdays, December 7 and 14, 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sundays, December 4 and 11, 9:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Other times are available by appointment only. Regular gift shop hours are Sundays from 10 a.m. to noon (when Talmud Torah classes are in session), and Wednesdays, 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Open Arms Initiative Invites You to Special Hanukkah Cooking Class With the Festival of Lights on the horizon, our Open Arms Initiative, a group dedicated to growing the role of interfaith couples and families in the Jewish way of life, will sponsor a special cooking class featuring Hanukkah fare, on Tuesday, December 13, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Join guest chef Howard Shandell as he treats attendees to a cooking demonstration of kreplach and traditional potato latkes with all the trimmings and of course, everyone will get to taste the finished products! This class will be fun and informative for all of our congregants novice and veteran cooks, alike so reserve your spot today! Cost to attend is $10 per person; to RSVP, send a check made payable to Beth El Synagogue to Open Arms Cooking Class, Beth El Synagogue, California St., Omaha NE New Mini Course Tackles Life After Death Beginning on Thursday, December 1, a new, four-week mini course will take an in-depth look at life after death, from Jewish perspectives. Led by Dr. Guy Matalon, the Jewish Federation s scholar-in-residence, the 7 p.m. 8 p.m. class will progress historically from Biblical text to rabbinic texts, then to medieval thought and Hasidic examples. Classes will continue on December 8, 15, and 22. There is no charge to attend; for more information or to register, contact the synagogue office or programming@bethel-omaha.org. 4 We Thank Our Patrons for Their Support Here at Beth El, we are grateful to have a group of congregants who offer the synagogue financial support above and beyond the norm. This group, known as Patrons, Guardians and Benefactors, constitutes 55 percent of our dues revenue each fiscal year. The selfless generosity of these individuals makes possible the quality programming and variety of services we re able to provide to our entire membership. Tribute is paid to these special donors on a plaque near the entryway to the chapel, but we would also like to recognize them here, in the Kol. We thank the following Patrons, Guardians and Benefactors: Bruce and Jill Baron, Sandra Belgrade, Louis and Frances Blumkin, Ronald and Chris Blumkin, Richard and Sandra Canfield, Ronald and Cheryl Cooper, Norman and Eunice Denenberg, Steven and Tippi Denenberg, Gary and Lisa Epstein, Bob and Bobbie Epstein, Richard and Beverly Fellman, David and Judi Finkle, Harris and Janice Frankel, Bruce and Pam Friedlander, Howard and Sandee Friedman, Sanford and Amy Friedman, Steven and Gail Friedman, Carol Gendler, Donald Goldstein, Leonard and Shirley Goldstein, Bruce and Margie Gutnik, Arnold and Sheryn Joffe, Howard and Gloria Kaslow, Howard and Sharon Kooper, Michael Levine, Harold and Linda Mann, Allan Noddle, Steven and Patty Nogg, Alan and Carol Parsow, Eric and Julie Phillips, Steve and Marcia Pitlor, Carl and Zoe Riekes, Joel and Nancy Schlessinger, Natan and Hannah Schwalb, Bruce and Anne Shackman, Norman and Suzy Sheldon, Steven Silver, Stanley and Norma Silverman, Irving and Gail Veitzer, Jim and Sally Zipursky, and Morley and Charlotte Zipursky.

6 It s All about Friendship during Upcoming Women s Rosh Hodesh Group Celebration You ve Got a Friend will be the theme as our Women s Rosh Hodesh Group welcomes the month of Tevet with a celebration of friendship, on Tuesday, December 27, at the synagogue. The 7 p.m. get-together will mark the last night of Hanukkah, and along with the miracle of the lights, the miracle of friendship will be applauded. Latkes (with all the trimmings) and desserts will be served. All women in the Jewish community are invited and are encouraged to bring a menorah for lighting, plus a friend with whom to share the evening. Don t miss this special celebration! Mark your calendar and RSVP to Julianne Herzog at , or jmdherzog@aol.com. Getting to Know You Shira Abraham, wife of Rabbi Steven Abraham, received a warm welcome when she was the guest of honor during a recent Women s Rosh Hodesh Group meet and greet. Shira shared personal stories about her growing-up years and her life as a new mom; and in turn, the 35 women in attendance shared tips with her about things they love about Omaha. Get Your Game Face On for Synagogues Decathlon Like to play games? Enjoy a little friendly competition? Want to bring home some glory for Beth El? Then sign up now for the fun-filled Synagogue Decathlon, taking place at the JCC from Tuesday, January 3 through Monday, January 16! Omaha s three synagogues will join in the fun, and we re looking for team players and team captains to participate in the following: Dodgeball, Tuesday, January 3, 6:30 p.m.; Trivia Night, Wednesday, January 4, 6:30 p.m.; Ping Pong, Thursday January 5, 6:30 p.m.; Volleyball, Sunday, January 8, 2 p.m.; Game Night (Poker, Scrabble, Mah Jongg), Monday, January 9, 6:30 p.m.; Wii Rock Band, Thursday, January 12, 6:30 p.m.; Basketball, Sunday, January 15, 2 p.m.; and Synagogue Feud (like Family Feud), Monday, January 16, 6:30 p.m. Interested? Give Margie a call in the synagogue office or her at programming@bethel-omaha.org, and get in the game! Young Adult Committee Plans December 24 Party for 20s, 30s On Sunday, December 24, Beth El s Young Adult Committee will team up with the Jewish Federation s Young Jewish Omaha group, Temple Israel and Beth Israel, to present the first-ever Matzoh Ball Bash, an 80s costume party for Jewish adults (married and single) in their 20s and 30s. The fun will begin at 8:30 p.m.at The Phoenix, 120 th and Blondo St., and attendees are encouraged to dress in 80s garb. Prizes will be awarded for Best 80s costume, hair and dance moves; the evening will also feature a dance contest, trivia contest, and other games. Snacks will be served throughout the evening. RSVP at YJO Facebook Page, or contact Caryn Scheer at carynscheer@yahoo.com; Sarah Edelstein, sarah.edelstein@gmail.com, Rebecca Ruetsch-Finkelstein, finkelruetsch@cox.net; or Bob Goldberg at bgoldberg@jewishomaha.org. 5

7 Beth El Happenings Bible Study Discussion Group, Sundays, 10 a.m. What Do Jews Believe? Thursday, December 1, noon, led by Rabbi Levin. Tot Shabbat*, Friday, December 2, 6 p.m.; dinner, 6:30 p.m. Cost: Beth El members, $5; non-members, $7.50. No charge for children six and younger. Next program: January 6. Say Shalom! To Shabbat*, Friday, December 2, 6 p.m., dinner, 6:30 p.m. Cost: Beth El members, $5; non-members, $7.50. No charge for children ages six and younger. Next program: January 6. Diversity in Movies, Sunday, December 4, 10 a.m., led by Susi Frydman-Levin. Parasha & Pizza, Sunday, December 4, 12:30 p.m., led by Cantor Schlossberg, at Bagel Bin. Young Adult Committee s toddler playgroup, Tuesday, December 6, 10:30 a.m., Saddlebrook Community Center, Laurel Ave. On Tuesday, December 20, 10 a.m., we ll celebrate Hanukkah at the home of Melissa Shapiro, where we ll enjoy latkes! On Wednesday, December 21, we ll take cookies to the Blumkin Home at 10:30 a.m. For more information about playgroup activities, contact Caryn Scheer at carynscheer@yahoo.com. Women s Book Group: Thursday, December 8, 1 p.m. We ll discuss The Street of Crocodiles, by Bruno Schultz, and The Messiah of Stockholm, by Cynthia Ozick. Let s Do Lunch, with Rabbi Levin at Blumkin Home s Star Deli, Friday, December 9, noon. RSVP to the rabbi at rabbilevin@bethel-omaha.org. Shabbat Yoga/Tai Chi, Saturday, December 10, 10:30 a.m. to noon, led by Cantor Schlossberg and Beth Staenberg. Wear tennis shoes and comfortable clothing (no tank tops or shorts). Shabbat Is For Study, Saturday, December 10, 12:15 p.m. 1 p.m. Topic: Prayer of the day; additions and changes for Chagim and Yom Tov. Let s Wine About It, Monday, December 12, 6:30 p.m., at Fox & Hound, 120 th & West Dodge Rd. Jewish Values in Today s World, Sunday, December 18, 11 a.m., led by Rabbi Levin. *To RSVP to these programs, contact Margie in the synagogue office, or at programming@bethel-omaha.org. Join Our Group of Mitzvah Mensches Our Caring Committee is sending out the call for volunteers to help fellow congregants who are in need of rides to medical appointments or to the synagogue; helpers are also needed to assist in running errands and helping with household projects. We have Beth El members who would be most appreciative of your assistance please consider becoming a Mitzvah Mensch and offer a helping hand. Interested? Contact Caring Committee chairman Diane Shandell, at or dhshandell@tconl.com. 6 Blood Drive is Just Around the Corner Don t forget to roll up your sleeves and give blood at the JCC on Sunday, December 4, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., during Beth El s blood drive, co-sponsored by BBYO and the American Red Cross. Donors must be 17 (or 16 with parental permission), and must weigh at least 110 lbs. To register, either call Beth El, or view available times and to schedule your donation appointment by visiting and enter the sponsor code (132). For more information about the local drive, contact chairmen Karen and Michael Cohen at michaelandkaren@cox.net or Thanks for Making Boutique a Great Success We thank the following congregants for helping to make our 2011 Sisterhood Boutique such a smashing success: Susan Fellman Witkowski, Helen Kay, M Lee Hasslinger, Caryn Rifkin, Marcie Spivack, Heather Kelln, Linda Saltzman, Sheryl Friedman, Beth Friedman, Charlotte Casten, Harriet Marko, Helen Epstein, Shira Abraham, Bev Fellman, Sheri Dietrich, Diane Rich, Sharon Houchin, Beth Staenberg, Nancy Rips, Susi Levin, Sally Zipursky Joanie Jacobson, Jane Dreyfus, Karen Gustafson, Dottie Rosenblum, Jack Spivack, Wendy Berenson, Sam Lieb and Chad Shulewitz. We appreciate all of you!

8 Pets Strut Their Stuff at First Noah s Ark Pet Parade The morning may have been chilly on October 30, but that didn t keep congregants and their pups from taking part in Beth El s first-ever Noah s Ark Parade in the synagogue parking lot. After strutting their stuff, owners introduced their pets to the crowd, and the event was capped with Rabbi Abraham presenting a special Blessing for the Animals. Celebrate Your Simchas Here at Beth El Beth El Synagogue offers a wonderful venue for celebrating all your simchas and life-cycle events. Our kitchen facilities are second-to-none, well-quipped and in conformance with the Conservative standards of kashrut. During the past years, we have hosted several community events, including the annual Friedel dinner and Jewish Family Service s 100 th anniversary celebration. Many of you have been treated to our diverse cuisines at Café Schmooze, and we have recently added Star Catering as another catering resource. We re also pleased to announce that we ve hired Laura Baer as our kitchen coordinator and manager. Laura is very anxious to get to know the members of the Beth El family, and is very excited to work side by side with our congregation in planning all special celebrations at the synagogue. So the next time you are at the synagogue please take a moment to stop in to the kitchen and say hello to Laura! Friedel Students Visit Beth El Friedel Jewish Academy students recently visited Beth El and were taken on a tour of the synagogue by members of our clergy. Here, Rabbi Levin takes the children through the synagogue s kitchen. 7 Beth El Welcomes Jonathan Adam Ross (continued from front page) Jon is a founding company member of Storahtelling, which uses dramatized interpretations, traditional chanting, original music and live interaction to bring Bible stories to life, as well as the Northwoods Ramah Theater Company. In addition to acting, he also serves as Ramah s Director of the Performing Arts, and has served as faculty for the Cornerstone Fellowship and the Spielberg Fellowship in Jewish Theater Education. We are privileged to experience Jon s many talents during his visit to Beth El. On Friday, December 16, during 6 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat services, he says, We ll travel back in time together to meet Shlomo ha- Levi Alkatetz, author of Lecha Dodi ; then, the next morning during 9:30 a.m. Shabbat services, he will present a theatrical portrayal of the week s Torah portion. He will also perform during Shabbat s Cool for grades 2-7. Following services, everyone is invited to join Jon for a biblical tea party ; and on Sunday, December 18, at 4 p.m., he will treat attendees to a performance of God of Our Fathers, his hilarious and touching examination of modern religious life in America. (Note: this presentation is not appropriate for children younger than 14.) Free babysitting will be available RSVPs are needed by December 15. A dessert reception will follow the performance. The entire community is invited to enjoy the talents of Jonathan Adam Ross at no charge. Mark your calendar and join us for a magical, entertaining weekend!

9 We Thank Our Torah Corps The following members read Torah/Haftarah Lech-Lecha Ben Shapiro, Sharon Brodkey, M Lee Hasslinger, Roni Reiter-Palmon, Cantor Schlossberg Haftarah - Aliyah Jabenis Vayera Michael Gerson, Cantor Schlossberg, Juliana Reno Haftarah - Cantor Schlossberg Chayei Sara Rabbi Levin, Michael Gerson, Cantor Schlossberg, Alan Shulewitz, Heather Kelln Haftarah - Steve Riekes Toldot Ophir Palmon, Tomer Palmon, Zach Stein, Ben Shapiro, Andy Greenberg, Jacob Spivack, Howard Kaplan Haftarah - Jim Fried Keep Us Posted! We at Beth El want to hear your news: whether it s the birth of a child or grandchild, an engagement or retirement announcement or a special honor being received, we want to know about it. In addition, we would like to be notified about congregants who may be experiencing health difficulties, those who are in the hospital or under the weather and would appreciate a visit or phone call. We can t always know what is happening with every individual in our community, so if you have a loved one who could use some comfort and support from Beth El, please call the synagogue office and let us know. BIRTHDAYS With 5-year multiples Alexander Finkle, Barb Giller, Anna Grossman, M Lee Hasslinger, Marcel Kahn, Minette Katz, Max Kirshenbaum, Shira Kronick, Jordana Kurtzman, Jennifer Libov, Rachel Meyer, Rodney Shkolnick, Norma Silverman, Gal Tsabari Minyannaires 8 We Share Your Joy On the Birth of: Yehoshua Lev Rich grandchild of Diane & Philip Rich ANNIVERSARIES With 5-year multiples Sindie & Jerry Katskee Alice & Harold Kosowsky Klara & Iosif Elkin Sunday Scholars Series Program Features Dr. Guy Matalon Our next Sunday Scholars Series program on December 11, Dr. Guy Matalon, scholar-inresidence at the Jewish Federation, will speak about Sources of Jewish Law. During the 11 a.m. presentation, Guy will focus on different texts that serve as the sources for rabbinic decisions; he will also discuss several recent halachic decisions by leading Conservative rabbis and exactly how they were made. The entire community is invited to attend, at no charge. Thanks to these members of Beth El who attended at least one daily service between October 25 and November 17. Shira Abraham, Rabbi Abraham, Diane Axler Baum, Jack Belmont, Wendy Berenson, Michael Blatt, William Cohen, David Cooper, Harvey Cooper, Judy Cooper, Rose Cooper, Sarita Cooper, Hanna DeBruin, Larry DeBruin, Stanley Edelstein, Macklin Emas, Rick Emas, Arnold Epstein, Harriet Epstein, Helen Epstein, Jason Epstein, Ronald Epstein, Sharon Epstein, Beverly Fellman, Richard Fellman, Glen Fineman, Hollie Fineman, Sonia Forbes, Morris Friedman, Sandy Friedman, Elizabeth Gallagher, Michael Gerson, Donald Goldstein, Dee Goodman, Michael Goodman, Andrew Greenberg, Barton Greenberg, Cary Grossman, Lea Grunkin, M Lee Hasslinger, David Herzog, Julianne Dunn Herzog, Sorin Juster, Marcel Kahn, Howard Kaiman. Howard Kaplan, Gloria Kaslow, Howard Kaslow, Judith Katskee, Milton Katskee, Helen Kay, Shane Kotok, Larry Kronick, Howard Kutler, Sarah Kutler, Carole Lainof, Wayne Lainof, Joan Latchaw, Rabbi Levin, Susi Levin, Steven Levy, Evelyn Mitchell, Stanley Mitchell, Allen Morris, Allysa Morris, Cindy Morris, Jessica Morris, Anna Mosenkis, Igor Mosenkis, Robert Mosenkis, Allan Murow, Jane Murow, Amy Nachman, Gilda Pieck, Steve Pitlor, Alan Potash, Ethan Potash, Julie Potash, Merle Potash, Ruth Potash, Ramon Pred, Amy Reynolds, Zoe Riekes, Ari Riekes, Margo Riekes, Steven Riekes, Caryn Rifkin, Gary Rifkin, Nancy Rips, Debra Roitstein, Marti Rosen-Atherton, Dorothy Rosenblum, Cantor Schlossberg, Carol Schneider, Edward Schneider, Benjamin Shapiro, Rodney Shkolnick, Stanley Silverman, Tootie Simon, Marsha Simon, Nancy Skid, Edward Smith, Barry Snyder, Frances Snyder, Brent Spivack, Morton Steinberg, Jeff Taxman, Sherry Taxman, Marilyn Tipp, Steven Tipp, Edith Tsabari, Stewart Tully, Esther Wax, James Wax, Joye Wees, Steven Wees, Audrey Wiener, Elissa Wiener, Richard Wiener, Sally Zipursky.

10 This Kol lists contributions received by November 21. Donations Made After That Date Will Appear in the January Kol. Contributions to Named Endowment Funds ALAN S. KULAKOFSKY ENDOWMENT In Memory of: Richard Stern, Shirley Kulakofsky BARBARA AND DEAN FRANKEL ENDOWMENT FUND Yahrzeit of: Irving Herzog, Jeanette Desnick, Michael Herzog. GENERAL ENDOWMENT FUND Recovery of: Joodi Veitzer. HAROLD AND ETTA EPSTEIN ENDOWMENT FUND In Memory of: Richard Stern. ISAAC H. AND RUTH S. FRIEDMAN FUND Recovery of: Joodi Veitzer. Yahrzeit of:i.h.friedman, Ida Friedman. LINDA H LYNN KAHN ENDOWMENT FUND Yahrzeit of: Freda Gradman Shersky. MAGDA FRIED ENDOWMENT FUND Yahrzeit of: Magda Fried. RITA AND HAROLD NOVAK ENDOWMENT FUND Recovery of: Esther Wax. RUTH AND DAVID PLATT ENDOWMENT FUND Yahrzeit of: Douglas Platt, Rebecca Platt. SAM AND ANN EPSTEIN ENDOWMENT FUND In Memory of: Joe Janovic, Richard Stern. Recovery of: Mike Milder. SANDRA AND EDWARD BELGRADE ENDOWMENT FUND In Memory of: Mickey Landen, Richard Stern ṠAUL Z. AND LORRI ANNE DAVIS FUND In Memory of: Richard Stern. STEPHEN R. SKID ENDOWMENT FUND In Memory of: Jack Epstein, Lorin Lipps, Mary Jane Hamsa. WILLIS EPSTEIN ENDOWMENT FUND In Honor of Anniversary of: Jodi and Gary Epstein. In Honor of Birthday of:gary Epstein, Max Kirshenbaum. ZEFFREN ALTER SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Memory of: Don Shafer, Richard Stern. Prayers for Healing Every Shabbat morning during our Torah service, we recite the Mi Sheberach for emotional or physical healing, and Rabbi Levin reads the names of people whose loved ones want them remembered during this Contributions to Named Synagogue Funds BERT AND RUTH RENDER FUND Yahrzeit of: Bert Render. BUILDING FUND Recovery of: Esther Wax. CANTOR BERKOVITS MUSIC FUND In Honor of: Thanks to Cantor Schlossberg. In Memory: Richard Stern CEMETERY IMPROVEMENT FUND Yahrzeit of: Sylvia Moskovitz. GENERAL FUND In Memory of: Mace Jabenis, Richard Stern. Yahrzeit of: Beverly Israel, Michael Hoberman, Sondra Ostrow. LITURGICAL BOOK FUND In Honor of Anniversary of: Charlotte and Morley Zipursky. In Honor of Birthday of: Jean Duitch, Morley Zipursky. MITZVAH MEALS FUND Recovery of: Esther Wax. RABBI ALEXANDER KATZ EDUCATIONAL FUND In Honor of Bat Mitzvah of: Aliyah Jabenis. In Memory of: Richard Stern. Saba Nathan Roth. RABBI LEVIN S DISCRETIONARY FUND In Honor of: Thanks to Rabbi Levin. Yahrzeit of: Arthur Salkin, Harvey Cooper,Morris and Bertha Cook, Pola Lustgarten. SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Honor of Birthday of: Josie Shrago. In Memory of: Don Shafer, Jack Epstein,Richard Stern. Yahrzeit of: Abraham Kazlowsky, Ben Kaslow, Ben Zoorwill,Benjamin Littky, Ida Cooper, Ida Zoorwill, Judge Samuel Cooper, Martin Cooper. USY Yahrzeit of: Magda Morsel. YOUTH EDUCATION FUND In Honor of: Thanks to Fran Snyder. In Memory of: Nissim Cassab, Richard Stern.Recovery of: Matt Shapiro. IN MEMORIAM Beth El extends profound sympathy to the families of: Don Shafer Richard Stern May the All-Merciful comfort and sustain them in their sorrow meaningful prayer. If you would like to include your name or the name of a loved one, please call the synagogue office and let us know by the Thursday before Shabbat. To respect the privacy of others, we request that you ask permission before submitting someone else s name to be announced; in addition, we d appreciate it if you would let us know when to remove a name from our list. Thank you! New Committee Celebrates Diversity at Beth El In an effort to embrace diversity within Beth El s congregation, a new synagogue committee has been formed, and will be led by Amy and Sandy Friedman. Diversity comes in a variety of forms, Sandy said. It can be found within the practice of the Jewish religion itself, in sexual orientation, and in the ages and nationalities of our congregants, among many examples. Our committee s initial goal will be to identify various diverse groups within our congregation, as well as issues that need to be addressed. We want to find ways to welcome and serve them. We also want to expand the synagogue s horizons by finding solutions to identified issues. Embracing and celebrating all of our members can only benefit the growth and success of our synagogue. All congregants are encouraged to contact the Friedmans at , or sfriedmla@aol.com, to provide input for the committee s consideration. Yahrzeit Observances As you know, at every evening service we read the names of those whose yahrzeits (anniversary of death) are observed that day. If you will be attending Friday night service and would like the name of your loved one to be read that night, please call the synagogue office by the Wednesday preceding the service. 9

11 For details about various programs, visit the Beth El website at:

12 Beth El Synagogue California Street Omaha, NE NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S.POSTAGE PAID OMAHA, NE PERMIT NO.138 Beth El is a PROUD member of USCJ Beth El Staff Mordechai Levin... Senior Rabbi Steven Abraham... Asst. Rabbi Myer S. Kripke... Rabbi Emeritus Beth Schlossberg... Cantor Larry DeBruin... Exec. Director Judy Rubin... Education Director Margie Gutnik... Program Director Shiri Tene...Youth Director Jill Belmont... Publicity Coordinator Officers Bev Fellman... Beth El President Michael Schop... Men's Club President Marcie Spivack... Sisterhood President Naomi Zipursky... U.S.Y. President Friday Evening Candle lighting times: Dec :37 p.m. Dec :36 p.m. Dec :37 p.m. Dec :40 p.m. Dec :45 p.m. The KOL is sponsored by the Beth El Judaica Shop Minha/Ma ariv Service Schedule: Dec :40 p.m. Dec :40 p.m. Dec :40 p.m. Dec :45 p.m. Dec :50 p.m. Weekday Services at 7:00 am and 5:30 pm Sunday 9:00 am and 5:30 pm