SULAM Beth El - Seek. Understand. Learn. Act. Marvel. Now a year into this pandemic we reflect on the lessons our Kindergarten through Sixth Grade learners have embraced at SULAM. They have learned to pay attention to creating sukkat shalom, a shelter of peace for themselves and for others, and they’ve practiced calming their BIG FEELINGS by tapping into their ometz lev, inner strength. Our learners know about g’vurah – the power and courage we each bring to our actions, Sawyer teaches a song about how our g'vurah brings good change individuals working alone, and the community to the world. working together, to make a positive difference You and I will change the world; in the world. Every learner can identify a You and I by then all will follow; Others have said it before me but it doesn’t matter; biblical character with this quality and a You and I we’ll change the world. contemporary, relevant example. Most importantly our learners can identify g’vurah within evaluated the themselves and within the members of their families. idea of covenant, We are now focusing on chesed – the kindness that its meaning and goes beyond relevance to the call of duty, contemporary paying Jews. attention and There are doing more rd learners 3 graders use their g’vurah to than is make their friends feel better. minimally exploring the expected, value of trust, different Torah chapters with different benefiting examples, but an important theme that runs through 2nd graders show their g'vurah by those around the books of the Torah. We will hold a siyyum helping with cooking and sharing. us. (concluding) celebration, on Zoom, to honor our learners this spring.

For safety’s sake, we have all been confined to an online learning platform. We desperately miss being together at Beth El. Everyone is looking towards a post-vaccine liberation, with fewer restrictions limiting our gathering together. It can’t come soon 2nd Graders showed what enough. each of us can do by

using our minds and our hands with g'vurah. TO REGISTER YOUR CHILD: Our Beth El seventh [email protected] graders are preparing divrei Torah for their b’nai mitzvah in virtual lessons, arriving to their Zoom classroom with texts and commentaries and curious minds. One of our learners is building his d’var Torah around the question of why only two of the tribal leaders, Caleb and Joshua, that Moshe sent to spy out the land, believed that the Israelites could overcome the inhabitants. Another learner has focused on the sentence in the story of Babel, where there seems to be a redundancy in the wording of a verse. A third learner has Kindergarten and 1st graders learn about the 4 mitzvot of Purim.

2 Beth El Temple  West Hartford, CT  www.bethelwesthartford.org  860.233.9696

Enjoying Beth El

Temple Topics  Vol. LVI, No. 4  March-April 2021  Adar-Nissan-Iyar 5781 3

From (next to) the Rabbi’s Desk The Finest Gift in the World ‘Greet everyone with a smile.’ How so? This My mom was a strong, independent, curious, loving teaches that if a person gives his friend all the matriarch who taught her family how to live a life of finest gifts in the world, but does so with a tikkun, of repair, through her example and with more pained face, Scripture considers it as if he had than a touch of humor. She dedicated her life to given him nothing. But one who receives his helping others through Hadassah, using all of her friend with a smile, even if he gives him energy to ensure that others had food, proper medical nothing, Scripture considers it as if he had care, and education. She taught us the importance of given him all the finest gifts in the world. standing up for what is right and that we are Avot d’Rabbi Natan 13:4 responsible for the community, both local and global. Of the many texts about Somehow, we imagined that hachnasat orchim Elsie Farber and Lillian Hillman, a dear Beth she would always be here to (welcoming guests), this is El friend, as you can see from their hands. guide and love us. The pain of by far my favorite, and her loss especially in the midst over the past two months, of the pandemic left me this text has grown even feeling so isolated and lost – more profound to me. As until you once again stepped you may know, in forward. The outpouring of December, my mother, cards, messages, and emails Elsie Farber, passed, and in from you was overwhelming thinking about my mom, I and supportive as so many of have had the opportunity you shared words of to reflect on the impact consolation as well as that this community had memories of my mother. Such on her. From our first days a kind, caring gift from your here, you were so warm in welcoming my parents to hearts. Beth El, and they were so touched by your kindness. How blessed my mom was to be a part of this They could not get over this vibrant community that wonderful community that gave so much love and celebrated together, mourned together, and supported comfort to her. Thank you for sharing the finest gift in each other with meals, rides, and more whenever the the world with my mom, with my family and me, and need arose. with each other. When my father died almost 21 years ago, my mom It’s hard to believe, but Pesach is right around the began spending most holidays and many Shabbatot corner. This was the ultimate holiday for my mom. with us. She loved coming to services, singing along Her tall, moist sponge cakes were legendary, her with Cantor Ness and the congregation, looking gefilte fish perfect, her chopped liver mouthwatering, forward to Torah readings chanted by her children and her matzo balls floating in her golden chicken and congregants, particularly Eliot Barron, and soup, light as air. However, all of this paled in learning from the rabbis. Most of all, she loved the comparison to the joy she felt when surrounded by Beth El community, catching up with new friends at her loving family and friends, celebrating the past and kiddush, so appreciative of your warm greetings and looking ahead to the future. welcoming smiles. She always looked forward to seeing her “kissing friends” – clearly pre-pandemic! May this Passover, the commemoration of our Upon her return home, she would rave to her friends journey from slavery to freedom, lead us all to a about our shul and how much at home everyone pandemic-free time when we can once again welcome made her feel. When my mom turned 100 last year, friends, family and guests into our homes and there was no doubt that she wanted to celebrate that synagogue with warm smiles, the finest gift in the incredible milestone with her Beth El family – and world. how special and loved you made her feel! What a gift ~ Nancy Rosen of the heart!

4 Beth El Temple  West Hartford, CT  www.bethelwesthartford.org  860.233.9696

Reflections from the President Handling Passover Like A Pro – Aspire to Be Your Own Hero I have always been a Passover are somehow related. celebrating Passover around our big sports fan and Passover is one of the holiest dining room table with a admire many holidays on the Jewish calendar multicourse family feast, wine, athletes for their and the Super Bowl is often viewed singing, and laughter. leadership, passion, as one of the most “holy” sports Even with no holiday frenzy, I will and ability to overcome life’s weekends of the year. People do as I usually do. I will cook way adversities – and big game’s losses gather (pre-pandemic) often in more Passover food than I need – with dignity. As I was watching large numbers – and both special for two and deliver much of it to Super Bowl LV a friend called and days follow a playbook. my family and friends – and those asked me what I was doing for Players study their coach’s in need. It will make me feel Passover. The call conjured up the playbooks and we follow our spiritually connected to so many. profound feelings of sadness I had ancestor’s Haggadah. We carry out Like the MVP of the Super Bowl, from last year – a year without big the rituals and order of the Seder we can each aspire to become our Seders with family and friends for versus specific plays. As Jews we own heroes. Everyone has a special the first time in my life. In truth, I enhance and appreciate our role to play. What will be your had already begun thinking about identity and deepened sense of unique contribution for this it this year – and feeling that deep freedom. As I taste the bitter herbs Passover? sadness once again. this year, rather than feel the loss Chag Sameach! As the game continued I began of an in-person family gathering, I ~ Judy Rosenthal thinking how the Super Bowl and will look forward to next year

Cantor’s Corner Why Hallel? There seems to be the need to Hallel will be sung at our Beth El services on Passover, celebrate, to confirm who we are, and (as well as at our Pesach Seder, when from the to whom we owe that to. Haggadah, we tell the story of our exodus from Egypt). The Exodus marks the first time that the In our tradition, there is no stronger Jewish people, as a group, experienced FREEDOM! text to do that than the words and So, of course, that implies that we all raise our voices, music of Hallel, a group of six wonderful Psalms (113-118). as one, in the celebration of this profound and joyous event! Hallel comes from the word Halleluya. That special Hallel, the group of six Psalms, tells this story in the word is really two words. It is almost impossible to most vivid terms. It begins with a focus on God as translate this word into another language and retain creator, then transitions to a vivid and gripping the original meaning of the word Halleluya. description of the Exodus from Egypt with the The first part of this word is Hallelu – meaning to crossing of the sea that was split that allowed us to praise in a mystical, ecstatic, joyous, and unreserved move to a place of Freedom! The third and fourth manner. Not only that, but the word implies, to praise Psalms offer thanks to God for all that was done for as a community. The second part of this word us, bringing us out of the depths of slavery to the Halleluya is Ya, the name of God. So, in essence realization that we are free, and the last two psalms Halleluya means to “Praise God.” One of the continue to give thanks but they are done responsively properties that I find fascinating about this word is as a real dialogue between the leader of the prayer and that even in other beliefs, languages, and religions, the those assembled as a whole united in songs of joy, word Halleluya is not translated into what it means. hope and confirmation! It’s that special sound of Halleluya that gives it the uniqueness of what it means individually and It is with all this in mind that I wish for a beautiful collectively. In a real way Halleluya is not only a praise and healthy spring season for all of us, our families, for God but an acknowledgement of God’s mercy, and community! dependability, and ultimate wisdom. ~ Cantor Joseph Ness

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Worshipping Together - Shabbat All services and classes can be accessed directly from the weekly e-blast to members (no login Shabbat Services – Saturday necessary); or by following the links on the home page of our website, login required. Shabbat Morning & Torah Service 10:00 – 11:45 AM Egalitarian Services LOCATION: Sanctuary Livestream or in-person A traditional service, although slightly abbreviated Our congregation invites broad during this time. participation, within the limits of social distancing. Congregants (adults and teens, men and women) read Torah, chant the Youth Shabbat Series 11:00 AM – NOON Haftarah, and lead our services along with LOCATION: Kessler Hall REGISTRATION: required, space is limited our clergy. Many women choose to wear a Questions: Jason Kay, [email protected] tallit, and head coverings for women vary Mazel Tots MAR 20, APR 17 between kippot, hats, headbands, doilies, Featuring songs and stories geared for children 6 and and no covering (unless they go on the under with their families. bima). Shabbat Club MAR 6, APR 10 Prayers, games, and activities for students in gr. 1-5. As you know, this is a time for caution and Jr USY & USY MAR 13, APR 24 prevention, as COVID-19 (“Coronavirus”) Programs for middle and high schoolers. continues on a very fluid basis. Please check our website for guidelines about coming to Shabbat Mincha & Ma’ariv Services, the procedures we are asking you The afternoon and evening services for Shabbat are on to follow, and what we are doing to keep pause. the building safe and secure. www.bethelwesthartford.org/ Havdalah coronavirus EVERY WEEK LOCATION: Home Zoom NOTE: see chart for timing; it follows sunset Shabbat Services – Friday We transition from Shabbat to the new week with this brief service using the traditional symbols of a burning Kabbalat Shabbat 6:00 PM candle, a spice box, and wine. Mourner’s Kaddish is LOCATION: Home Zoom recited at the beginning. We welcome Shabbat with joyous song led by Cantor Ness and d’var Torah from Rabbi Family Havdalah Series Rosen. LOCATION: Home Zoom Questions: Jason Kay, [email protected] PJ Havdalah 7:15 PM MAR 6 Candle Lighting & Havdalah Times; This program is designed for families with children in plus Havdalah Service Time second grade and below, but all are welcome. Wear

Friday Saturday your PJs, gather your grape juice, spices, and candles, Shabbat Candle Havdalah Service and join us for a relaxing Havdalah and a story. Mar 5-6 5:28 PM 6:27 PM 6:45 PM

Mar 12-13 5:36 PM 6:35 PM 7:00 PM Family Game Night Mar 19-20 6:44 PM 7:43 PM 8:00 PM Mar 26-27 6:52 PM ** ** MARCH 13 7:30 - 8:30 PM Apr 2-3 6:59 PM ** ** LOCATION: Home Zoom Apr 9-10 7:07 PM 8:06 PM 8:30 PM Questions: Jason Kay, [email protected] Apr 16-17 7:15 PM 8:14 PM 8:30 PM Begin with Havdalah and stay for a series of

Apr 23-24 7:22 PM 8:22 PM 8:45 PM online, family-friendly games. Trivia, drawing, Apr 30-May 1 7:30 PM 8:29 PM 8:45 PM contests of creativity – something for everyone. ** see page 8 for candle/Havdalah/service times during Passover

6 Beth El Temple  West Hartford, CT  www.bethelwesthartford.org  860.233.9696

Worshipping Together - Daily Mincha & Ma’ariv Shacharit SUNDAYS-THURSDAYS 7:30 PM SUNDAYS 8:45 AM LOCATION: Home Zoom MONDAY-FRIDAY 7:00 AM Our daily minyan (prayer service with at least 10 Jewish LOCATION: Chapel Zoom or in-person adults) includes Kaddish for those in mourning or The morning minyan also includes reading Torah observing yahrzeit (the anniversary of a person’s passing). on Mondays, Thursdays, andRosh Chodesh.

Preparing - Passover Why is removing Chametz this year different from most other years? This year, Passover begins just as Shabbat is ending. In an ordinary year, we must sell our Removing Chametz Chametz no later than the morning on the day of THURSDAY, MARCH 25 the first Seder. But, selling is forbidden on EVE Search for Chametz with a candle Shabbat. To further complicate matters, we must and feather (see left) have enough bread to say Motzi (the prayer for bread) through Shabbat lunch. How do we make FRIDAY, MARCH 26 the timing work? 9:00 AM Deadline to Sell Chametz DINNER Kosher for Passover egg matzah What is Chametz? preferred for Motzi Chametz is leavened bread; it is SATURDAY, MARCH 27 any food made of grains that rise BREAKFAST Kosher for Passover egg matzah when exposed to water. Matzah preferred for Motzi is made from wheat and water, but is baked before it is allowed to rise. 10:30 AM No more Chametz A mitzvah of Passover is the removal of all chametz, both physically and symbolically, and all Transfer of Ownership – Mekhirat Chametz that has had contact with chametz. Jewish law All chametz vessels (dishes, utensils, etc., and unopened forbids eating (or even possessing) any food that food cartons or cans stored away during the Festival) can contain leaven. should no longer legally be in one's possession. Search for Chametz – Bedikat Chametz In accordance with Jewish law, an agent is empowered to In anticipation of Passover, it is traditional to enact a transaction with someone not Jewish. The sale engage in a thorough spring cleaning. Then, a has to take legal form, using a formal bill of sale. All symbolic search is done by chametz remains in that person's "ownership." At the candlelight or flashlight, end of the holiday, the agent arranges for the “reversion” with a feather to sweep up of ownership of the now-permitted chametz. the crumbs into a spoon. You may observe this mitzvah by completing the form Usually, it is the night on page 19, or at tinyurl.com/ChametzBET. The form before Passover starts, but must be returned before 9:00 am, Friday, March 26. lighting a candle and cleaning (work) is forbidden on Shabbat. So, this Please consider a contribution to Maot Chitin (Passover year, it is a day earlier. It takes place right after Fund for the Needy) or Mazon (a Jewish Response to sundown on Thursday and includes a special Hunger) – indicate your preference on the form. You blessing. might also donate unopened, nonperishable chametz to FoodShare. Since the house has already been cleaned thoroughly, it is customary to put crumbs in a few How do I save some bread for Shabbat? places where they can be easily found. The Because bread has been removed from the house before following morning, the chametz is burned (biur the search for chametz, we use egg matzah to make chametz). (continues)

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Preparing - Passover, cont. Motzi at the three meals of Shabbat. Dinner on Friday night and breakfast on Saturday morning can be normal. Passover Service Calendar But, the third Shabbat meal has to be eaten early as no THURSDAY, MARCH 25 chametz can be consumed after 10:30 am on Saturday. 7:00 AM Fast of the Firstborn Service Keep in mind that the taste of and Study Session, followed by  “regular” Matzah must be fresh Grab-and-Go breakfast Z–CH at the first Seder. FRIDAY, MARCH 26 What is the Fast of the Firstborn? 6:00 PM Kabbalat Shabbat Service Z This fast commemorates the saving of the firstborn 6:52 PM Candle Lighting Israelites during the Plague of the Firstborn. Unlike all SATURDAY, MARCH 27 other Jewish fast days, only firstborn children are required 10:00 AM Shabbat Morning Service LS–S to fast on this day. Usually, the fast is broken at a siyyum 7:53 PM Candle Lighting (Torah study) celebration (typically made at the EVENING First Seder @ home conclusion of the morning services), which, according to (no evening service) prevailing custom, creates an atmosphere of rejoicing that SUNDAY, MARCH 28 overrides the requirement to 10:00 AM Festival Morning Services LS–S continue the fast. 7:54 PM Candle Lighting Except for Yom Kippur, there is EVENING Second Seder @ home no fasting on Shabbat. Except for (no evening service) the Fast of the Tenth of Tevet, there is no fasting on a MONDAY, MARCH 29 Friday. So, when Erev Passover falls on Shabbat, the Fast 10:00 AM Festival Morning Services LS–S of the Firstborn takes place on Thursday. There will be a 7:30 PM Festival Mincha, Ma’ariv, & service and study session in the Chapel on Thursday Havdalah Services Z morning, followed by a meal (to go). Of course, you can 7:53 PM Havdalah also join us on Zoom. ------For any additional questions or concerns, FRIDAY, APRIL 2 please contact one of our Rabbis. 6:00 PM Kabbalat Shabbat & Festival Ma’ariv Services Z 6:59 PM Candle Lighting BETH EL TEMPLE SATURDAY, APRIL 3 CRAFT GALLERY 10:00 AM Shabbat & Festival Morning

Services LS–S PASSOVER SALE! 6:00 PM Shabbat & Festival Mincha/ MARCH 1 – APRIL 4 Ma’ariv Services LS–CH 20% off all Passover items! 8:00 PM Candle Lighting The shop has everything you may need. SUNDAY, APRIL 4 10:00 AM Festival Morning Services (Yizkor recited) LS–S 7:30 PM Festival Mincha, Ma’ariv, & Havdalah Services Z 8:00 PM Havdalah & end of Passover  Sponsored by Susan & Robert Gold in memory of Leo Gold z’’l

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY: Shelley Barker, 860-232-6468; HOW TO WATCH THE SERVICE: Jill Jones, 860-922-7300 Z = Zoom LS = Livestream NOTE: proceeds benefit the synagogue and we are staffed WHERE IS THE SERVICE FOR AN IN-PERSON OPTION: through the generosity of our volunteers S = Sanctuary, up to 100 people CH = Chapel, up to 25 people (Passover continues on page 19)

8 Beth El Temple  West Hartford, CT  www.bethelwesthartford.org  860.233.9696

Observing Together - Modern Holidays Yom HaShoah The Story of the Danish Jews and Holocaust their Rescue during WWII Remembrance Day with Charlotte Thalmay begins Wednesday eve, from Jewish Copenhagen April 7 THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 1:00 – 2:00 PM The full name of this revered day is Yom HaShoah COST: no charge ve’HaGevurah – Day of Remembrance of the REGISTER: Tinyurl.com/BETDenmark Holocaust and Heroism – and that is indeed what it SPONSOR: Men’s Club is. For almost 400 years the royal family in On this night, candles are lit in homes across the Denmark supported and protected the small but globe to shine a light of memory, a light of education, influential Jewish Community. So it was no and a light confirming that we will never forget. By coincidence that King Christian X made a huge participating in this program, you are helping to keep effort to protect the Jews when Denmark was the memory of the Shoah alive, and highlighting the occupied by the Nazis in April, 1940. memory of what can happen when good people do Brave fishermen helped more than 95% of the not stand up to evil. Danish Jewish population across the strait to May the memories of those who perished in the safety in neutral Sweden. Many Jews escaped Holocaust always be a blessing. And may we from fishing villages on small boats. Hear continue to honor those who bravely stood up to personal stories about the miraculous rescue of those who sought to destroy us. almost 7,000 Danish Jews in October 1943.

In the Community Men’s Club will mail yellow candles to rd all Temple members residing in CT, 43 Annual Holocaust Commemoration and out of state members upon WEDNESDAY, APRIL 7, 7:00 – 8:30 PM CONTACT: Kathy Fishman 860-470-5591, request. Volunteers are needed to [email protected] assemble yellow candle packages in the SPONSORS: Voices of Hope, Mandell JCC safety of their own home. Donations can be made payable to Beth El Temple; note Community-Wide Reading of the Names “Yellow Candles” in the memo. All profits go directly to THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM the Camp Ramah Scholarship Fund. CONTACT: Kathy Fishman, 860-808-9108, [email protected] VOLUNTEER: Tom Falik, 860-729-7245, [email protected] SPONSORS: Voices of Hope, Mandell JCC

Yom HaZikaron Yom HaAtzmaut Israel’s Memorial Day for Fallen Soldiers Israel’s Independence Day & Victims of Terror begins Thursday eve, April 15 begins Wednesday eve, April 14 Yom HaZikaron ends Memorial Day in Israel is a somber day with ceremonies in true Israeli to honor those who fought to protect the State and fashion: with the People of Israel. Nearly everyone in Israel has lost beginning of this someone in a war or terror attack. special day of parties, Even the music on the radio is sad. parades, bonfires, Take time on this day to read about and more. Israeli soldiers or to support a Wear blue and white, eat falafel, buy Israeli chayal boded (lone soldier), who products, and make a donation to an Israeli made aliyah and fights for his/her adopted country. charity as you celebrate Israel on this day.

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Worshipping Together - Spring Holidays Lag Ba’Omer begins Thursday, April 29 Lag Ba’Omer, a The Omer counting period, seven weeks between minor holiday on the Passover and Shavuot, is a relatively somber time: we Jewish calendar, is a do not permit weddings, and many Jews do not listen festive day. It falls on to live music or get haircuts. This is because of a plague 18 Iyar, the 33rd day that wiped out many of the students of Rabbi Akiva, of the Omer count. one of the greatest rabbis of the Talmud. The Hebrew letters We are told that the plague stopped on the 33rd day of lamed and gimel the Omer, so that day is one of celebration, picnics, which make up the acronym “Lag” have the combined bonfires, and outdoor fun. In Israel, they also plant numerical value of 33. This day is an occasion for trees. Grab some friends and enjoy! happiness during an otherwise mournful period.

Making Connections Celebration of America’s Jewish Women An Hour Of Captivating Music WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3 8:00 PM WEDNESDAY, MARCH 10 NOON – 1 PM COST: no charge COST: no charge REGISTER: tinyurl.com/BETWomenMarch CONTACT: Sue Wachtel, 860-658-2116, QUESTIONS: Michelle Kunzman, 860-729-4201, [email protected] [email protected] REGISTER: tinyurl.com/BETStoltz SPONSOR: Women’s Network SPONSOR: Chai Society Professor Pamela Nadell will celebrate Internationally acclaimed bass and Women’s History Month with us and share insights acoustic guitarist David Stoltz will from her recent book, America’s Jewish Women: A perform an eclectic mix of jazz, blues, History from Colonial Times to Today, which wonwon classic rock, Broadway, Israeli music, and more. the 2019 National Jewish Book Award/Everett Family This concert includes duets with LeeAnn Lovelace Foundation Jewish Book of the Year. See the Library and a few Israeli songs with Cantor Ness. review on facing page. Grab your lunch and pull up to your computer for this special, online-only event! Representing Israel in Tough Places with Israel Ambassador (Retired) Arthur Lenk FJMC Keeper of the Flame SUNDAY, MARCH 14 11:00 AM – NOON SUNDAY, MARCH 21 10:30 AM COST: no charge SPONSOR: CT Region Men’s Clubs REGISTER: by 3/11, tinyurl.com/ToughPlaces Steve Rabb is Beth El’s honoree this year. QUESTIONS: Dave Diamond, 860-965-3157, [email protected] CO-SPONSORS: Men’s Club and Calling All Softball Players Israel Engagement Committee SPRING/SUMMER 9:30 – 11:30 AM Lenk served as Israel’s Ambassador to COST: no charge South Africa, Lesotho and eSwatini CAPTAINS: Alan Cetel, 860-232-9515, [email protected], (Swaziland), 2013-2017 and as Ambassador to Jake Kovel, 860-651-9366, [email protected] Azerbaijan, 2005-2009. He also served as Director of the Get ready to come out of winter hibernation and Department of International Law at Israel’s Ministry of Covid quarantine. We are looking for new players Foreign Affairs from 2010-2013 and at Israel’s missions to join our veterans when we take to the diamonds in New Delhi, India and Los Angeles, California. He will and start another fun season. This is a great way to talk about his experiences in Azerbaijan, a Muslim revive your athletic career while getting to know country, and South Africa, a majority-Black country, fellow congregants. We are a co-ed slow pitch from the Israeli perspective. Ambassador Lenk was born league and we will contact interested players closer in the United States and made aliyah to Israel in 1982. to the season, in May.

10 Beth El Temple  West Hartford, CT  www.bethelwesthartford.org  860.233.9696

Lifelong Learning All services and classes can be accessed directly from the weekly Ongoing Weekly Adult e-blast to members (no login necessary); or by following the links Classes on the home page of our website, login required. New participants welcome! No registration, no charge. Ongoing Monthly Adult Class Watch your email and check the website for announcements when live classes Musical Chat with Cantor Ness can resume. NOTE: see page 3 for dates and topics Lunch & Learn TUESDAYS 12:00 – 1:00 PM Zoom Library Corner BYOL: lunch during class is optional America’s Jewish Women’s Contributions Rabbi Rosen leads an exploration of  Roberta J. Buland the Hebrew Bible. This year continues with the main teachings of the America’s Jewish Women: A History from Colonial Prophets. Times to Today, by Pamela S. Nadell, is a history of diverse, passionate, and dynamic women who were numerically small but qualitatively great. Nadell Talmud Study illustrates two threads binding the nation's Jewish women: a WEDNESDAYS strong sense of self and a resolute commitment to making the 10:15 – 11:15 AM Zoom world a better place. We are a self-guided group The prologue sets the stage by introducing Grace Mendes Seixas of learners, currently studying the Nathan and her great-granddaughter, Emma Lazarus, author of tractate Sanhedrin, using the Steinsaltz The New Colossus. These two Jewish women lived in dramatically Hebrew-English text (a free version in different eras, self-actualizing and contributing differently as a a slightly different format is available result. They were constrained by the mores of their times, but online). The only prerequisite is a both redefined the roles handed down to them. desire to learn Torah as explained by our sages. Nadell wondered whether Rachel Hendricks Samuel, widow to New York’s Judah Samuel could, in the early 1700s, read a prayer Bible & Breakfast book. It is doubtful, Nadell concludes, but like Jewish women through the ages, she prayed over candles kindled in her two THURSDAYS brass candlesticks every Shabbat. 8:00 – 9:00 AM Zoom QUESTIONS: Michael Schenker, Around 1900, approximately 2.5 million Jews were arriving in [email protected] America, nearly half of them women. Their profound sense of Guided by our rabbis, participants social justice led them to become the “fighters, the picketers, the share their viewpoints and insights. agitators” of the early 20th century. We all learn by listening, thinking, Post World War II, Betty Friedan, Sonia Pressman, Bella Abzug, and sharing. People with all and Gerda Lerner were among the many Jewish women who backgrounds are welcome; an ability played an outsize role in the feminist struggle. As Supreme Court to read Hebrew or knowledge of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg once quipped: “What is the Hebrew text is not needed. difference between a bookkeeper in the garment district and a Supreme Court justice? One generation.” Pirkei Avot Study With 35 pages of Notes and an 18-page Index, this is a well- FRIDAYS documented – yet highly readable – book. In conjunction with 1:30 – 2:30 AM Zoom Women’s History Month, Nadell will present her findings in a This small book of wisdom special BET Women’s Network program on Wednesday, March has been a source of inspiration 3, 2021, at 8pm via Zoom. Watch your email for registration or for centuries. Rabbi Rosen will lead us check the Beth El website. The public is invited. as we explore the nature of the good life from an ancient (and still very Library Corner provides information about books in our library. Books are reviewed rather than critiqued. To request that a relevant) Rabbinic perspective. book be reviewed, please contact [email protected].

Temple Topics  Vol. LVI, No. 4  March-April 2021  Adar-Nissan-Iyar 5781 11

Supporting Beth El Camp Ramah Fund in Memory of We deeply appreciate the following Elsie Farber, mother of Nancy Rosen; Thoughtful Contributions. Miriam Klau, granddaughter of Bobby & David Klau; Marvin Sperling, husband of This list reflects contributions received and processed through Sidra – Georgianne & Jonathan Cohen January 19, 2021. Ruth Goldschmidt, mother of Leah Katz – For the next edition of Temple Topics, contributions need to be Meryl & Mitchell Danitz received in the office by March 23, 2021. for the Yahrzeit of Susan S. Gavens, daughter-in-law – Rabbi Rosen’s Discretionary Fund Wishing a Speedy Recovery to Annette Gavens in Appreciation of Steven Singer – Ann & Mickey Wolf Cantor’s Music Fund Rabbi Rosen – Shelley & Michael Barker, for the Yahrzeit of in Appreciation of Ina Cooper, Whitney Whitaker & Harry Palmbaum, father – Nancy Cantor Ness – Whitney Whitaker & Gerry Garfield, Loren & Joel Gelber, Bernstein Gerry Garfield, Eugene Kagan, Leah Eugene Kagan, Leah Katz, Myra & Bill Bernard W. Brody, father – Caren, Paul & Katz, Myra & Bill Kleinman, Emma & Kleinman, Janet & Harold Moskowitz, David Hannah Krug, Harold Moskowitz, Judith Satlof, Sidra Sperling, Francine Joseph Friend, father – Roberta Buland Joanne & Saul Pasternack, Robin & Stier Ruth Gartner, mother – Bill Gartner Rafi Santiago, Judith Satlof Judy Rosenthal – Myra & Bill Kleinman Harry Steinbach – Jill & Brad Hutensky Meryl Danitz for her care, concern & in Honor of Dora Goldfarb Satz; Jenny Brooks Lamkin; support – Loren & Joel Gelber Birth of Solomon Ethan Steinhardt, Leo Lamkin – Linda & Bruce Stanger Leo Diamond, father – Lorraine & Farrel in Memory of grandson of Meryl & Mitchell Danitz – Miriam Klau, granddaughter of Bobby & Carolyn & Stuart Bernstein Vogelhut Elaine Mesnick; Samuel Waitzman; Dr. David – Meryl & Mitchell Danitz Howard Weiner’s recovery – Ellen Ruth Goldschmidt, mother of Leah Katz – Blumberg Norman Weinstein; Donald Habelow – Wendy Habelow & Robert Weinstein Barbara Malley-Falkin 50th wedding anniversary of Carolyn & Marvin Sperling, husband of Sidra – Stuart Bernstein – Naomi & Michael Cemetery Fund Andrea & Robert Lindenberg & family Cohen for the Yahrzeit of for the Yahrzeit of Birthday of Lois Saffer –Marlena Derosa Judy Schulz, mother – Lonni & Philip Lillian Friend, mother – Roberta Buland Lydia Lutt, for her outstanding ability, Schulz David Greenberg, brother-in-law – Leah kindness & devotion to Beth El – Katz Lorraine & Farrel Vogelhut Chai Society in Memory of Della Diamond, mother; Sarah Esther in Memory of Elaine Kagan, mother of Tammy Levine – Vogelhut, mother – Lorraine & Farrel Wendy Schulman, wife of Jed – Barbara & Sandy & Marc Friedman Vogelhut Bruce Brumberger Marvin Sperling, husband of Sidra – Joseph Springut Security Fund Marvin Sperling, husband of Sidra – Marion Friedland, Rochelle & Zane in Memory of Roberta Buland, Alison Demarest, Gershman Korine & Ron Ferraro, Marcia & Elsie Farber, mother of Nancy Rosen; Michael Garfinkel, Sharon Kursman, for the Yahrzeit of Marvin Sperling, husband of Sidra – Arlene & Lenny Lippman, Sheila & Philip R. Ugelow, father; Marcia Satlof, Honey Sue Springut Howard Mark, Leigh Newman & Gary mother-in-law – Judith Satlof Taste of Shabbat Fund Starr, Robin & Len Oremland, Joanne Friends of Ari Santiago Temple in Appreciation of & Arthur Rome, Vera & Eli Simon Accessibility Fund Lee Ann Benadiva for all her good deeds – Elsie Farber, mother of Nancy Rosen – in Memory of Loren & Joel Gelber Alison Demarest, Barbara Malley- Elaine Kagan, mother of Tammy Levine; in Memory of Falkin, Marcia & Michael Garfinkel, Hattie Kaufman, sister of Francine Stier; Marvin Sperling, husband of Sidra – Philip Robin & David Gelles, Pearl Lusthaus, Marvin Sperling, husband of Sidra – Post Leigh Newman & Gary Starr Robin & Rafi Santiago Ruth Goldschmidt, mother of Leah Katz – Alison Demarest, Fredda & Jon Goldstein, Francine & Steve Stier You can make a donation in a variety of ways: Dr. Elliott Mordecai Berg, brother of Go to the Beth El website: Denese Mann – Jeanne & Marshall Every dollar contributed can Elman, Tracy King www.bethelwesthartford.org/giving and does make a difference Sybil Golden, wife of Donald – Donna & Mail it in and will be acknowledged. Alan Gittleman, Judy & Richard Levy The minimum donation Stacy Gilson Dunoff, daughter of Harriet & Please be sure to include: for each listing is $10. Jerome Gilson; Dr. Scott Bortman, son of Joan, brother of Charna Kaufman –  the name of the fund Unrestricted funds support Fredda & Jon Goldstein  the timely needs of Beth El whom you wish to honor/remember Temple. Restricted funds Elaine Kagan, mother of Tammy Levine – and your relationship to the person Fredda & Jon Goldstein, Eleanor Udolf benefit specific purposes and  their address for an objectives. For a complete Dr. David Satlof, husband of Judy – Robin, list of funds, and any specific Adam, Jordan & Sarah Lazinsk acknowledgment card designations, please visit our Hattie Kaufman, sister of Francine Stier –  your address/phone/email website. Annette & Jack Levine, Judy & Harold Levy Print clearly – or even better, submit the information typed.

12 Beth El Temple  West Hartford, CT  www.bethelwesthartford.org  860.233.9696

Education Fund Support Beth El by doing what you in Appreciation of Anita Levy, SULAM teacher of Nika Garfield –Whitney Whitaker & already do! (just a little bit differently) Gerry Garfield

in Honor of Michelle Konigsburg – Barbara & Bob Green IFT ARDS G C in Memory of  Buy good-as-cash gift cards from Beth El for Marvin Sperling, husband of Sidra – Gerri & Peter Apter & family, your own shopping and dining and for gifts. Shelley & Michael Barker, Carolyn & Stuart Bernstein, Debbie & Lewis Cohen, Harriet Dannhauser, Loren & Joel Gelber,  Pay face value, spend face value, and Beth El Harriet & Jerome Gilson, Barbara & Bob Green, Leah Katz, Lois gets a donation, up to 12% for some retailers. & Chuck Koteen, Ivy & Avi Patt, Susan Promisto, Meryl & Elliott Rosenberg, Shirley Wachtel, Jennifer & Steven Wolfberg  Commonly requested cards Prayer Book Fund are stocked in the synagogue in Memory of office, including Big Y, Stop Marvin Sperling, husband of Sidra – Barbara & David Brown & & Shop, Amazon, and family Dunkin Donuts! Tsedakah/Chesed Fund in Appreciation of  Other cards can be ordered The entire staff of Beth El Temple Myra– & Bill Kleinman (allow at least 1 week). in Honor of visit www.shopwithscrip.com for details Engagement of daughter, Rebecca and David Gabay – Lonni & and updates about the Scrip program, Philip Schulz including a 6-page list of all the in Memory of participating stores, restaurants, Ruth Goldschmidt, mother of Leah Katz – Barbara & Bob Green entertainment, and more. Temple Fund in Appreciation of Rabbi Rosen & everyone at Beth El Temple for Stella’s baby naming – AMAZON SMILE Amanda, Zac & Stella Rabbi Rosen, Cantor Ness & Rabbi Sowalsky for Zoom & live stream  Go to smile.amazon.com, type services – Loren & Joel Gelber in Beth El Temple, and shop as in Honor of you normally would! Judie & Coleman Levy – Harold Lindenthal Birth of Solomon Ethan Steinhardt, grandson of Meryl & Mitchell  Amazon will donate a portion Danitz – Cyral & Richard Sheldon & family of the purchase price to Beth El. 75th birthday of Phyllis Lehman – Elizabeth Weber in Memory of Elsie Farber, mother of Nancy Rosen – BJ & Leonard Diamond, SEARCHING Ellen & Peter Donshik, Shera & David Golder, Tracy King, Joan & Melvin Levi, Eileen McMurrer & family, Susan & Mark  Set your default search engine to Schmidek, Judy & Irwin Singer, Sidra Sperling, Lisa & Bruce www.goodsearch.com and choose Beth El Sussman, Melissa & Randy Weinstock, Ted Zachs Marvin Sperling, husband of Sidra – Shelley & Alan Cetel, Linda & Temple as the Henry Cohn, Marlene Cundall, Ellen & Peter Donshik, Diann beneficiary. Asher Gillenson, Amy Goldstein, Kayleen Goldstein, Nina &  For every search you do, Beth El gets a David Hoff, Susan & Allen Kallor, Elaine & Harry Lane, Elaine & Jerry Leshem, Eileen McMurrer & family, Rachel & Mitchell donation. Marcus, Beatrice Mitlok, Sara Paley, Judy & Irwin Singer, Marilyn Steinmetz & Stephen Lieberman, Bernice Wiener, Ted Zachs SHOPPING Sybil Golden, wife of Donald – Mary Rose Ebner Hattie Kaufman, sister of Francine Stier – Eva & Michael Kaplan,  Go to www.goodshop.com for an online Tracy King, Carolyn & Jeff Weiser shopping mall. Dr. Scott Bortman, son of Joan, brother of Charna Kaufman – Elaine & Jerry Leshem  Shop and buy Gisella Gurtman, mother of Dr. Frances Gurtman – Janet & Joel instantly, and choose Beth El as the Miller beneficiary to get a donation. Elaine Kagan, mother of Tammy Levine – Carol Rosen, Faith Solomon Selma Stein – Carol Starr Ruth Goldschmidt, mother of Leah Katz – Marilyn Steinmetz & For more options and details about Stephen Lieberman, Holly & Jerry Swirsky supporting Beth El Temple, visit for the Yahrzeit of www.bethelwesthartford.org/giving/ Joseph Barker, father – Shelley & Michael Barker waystogive.html. Betty Cohen Rosenbloom, mother – Jackie Rosenbloom Bazzano & Milton Rosenbloom (continues) Temple Topics  Vol. LVI, No. 4  March-April 2021  Adar-Nissan-Iyar 5781 13

Supporting Beth El, cont. Temple Fund for the Yahrzeit of (cont.) Sherman Bercowetz, husband; Joelle Levin, mother – Sharon Bercowetz Mollie Stollman, mother; Max Berland, father – Harriet & Robert Berland Stella Bernstein, mother – Dick Bernstein, Mark Bernstein, David Bernstein Gloria Bernstein, mother; Stanislaw Cwklinski, Holocaust CT Mohel remembrance – Carolyn & Stuart Bernstein Doris Ferraro, grandmother – Melissa & Adam Borgida Ron Buckman, MD Harry Brody, father-in-law – Shirley K. Brody Helene & Jack Brown, parents – Barbara & David Brown Frank S. Bubbs, father – Roy H. Bubbs Brian Philip Bander, son – Carin Buckman Jack Cetel, father – Alan Cetel Abe Cohen, father; Esther Cohen Ogens, sister – Sam Cohen Iwan Galmak, Holocaust remembrance – Linda & Henry Cohn Marvin Cremer, brother – Reeva Cremer George Denes, husband; Lily Eisler, mother – Edith Denes Joseph Deitsch, father – Gail & Barry Deitsch Alice R. Philips, sister – Ellen & Peter Donshik Arthur H. Epstein, husband – Mary Epstein & family Claire Silverstein, aunt – Korine Ferraro I. Edward Friedman, father – Matthew Friedman Esther Gellin, mother – Irene Fromson Melvin Garfinkel, father –Marcia & Michael Garfinkel Barbara Gluck, mother – Susan Gluck David Goldman, husband – Felice Goldman Kenneth Weil, father – Nancy & Dennis Gottfried Marion Parks, mother; Maurice Greenberg, father – Beverly & www.CTMohel.com Arnold Greenberg Leonard Sholes, uncle – Leonard Guthart & family Abraham Haller, father – Sherry Haller Brit Milah  Simchat Bat Max Javit, husband – Rachel Javit Bertha Sundel, aunt – Carol Johnson Leo M. Kaplan, husband – Bilha Kaplan Joseph Isaac Silver, father; Sheldon Karasik, brother – Barbara & Robert Karasik Frances & Benjamin Hirshik, parents; Kenneth Hirshik, brother – Joyce & Wallace Kirschner Ronald Meier, brother – Deborah & Steven Kleinman 77 Gladys Kruger, mother – Riva Lewinter & David Kruger Sally Lerer, mother – Andre Lerer George Davis, brother; Charles Lieberfarb, father – Diane & Richard Lieberfarb Eliot Shapiro, father; Seymour Lieberman, father – Marilyn Steinmetz & Stephen Lieberman Laura Liebowitz, mother-in-law – Gilda Liebowitz Mina Malkoff, mother – Linda & Joel Malkoff Arthur Messing, husband – Barbara Messing Erwin Hirsh, father; Clara & Harold Miller, parents – Janet & Joel Miller Jack Greenberg, father; Solomon Moskowitz, father – Janet & Harold Moskowitz Michael Pickar, father – Lisa Nollman Selma & Sidney Pariser, parents – Carla & Ron Pariser Hilda Parker, mother – Bruce Parker Antoinette Peikes, mother – Ronald Peikes Esther & Marius Pilo, parents – Jacquelynne & Marvin Pilo Minnie Goldenberg, mother – Sherri Pliskin Harry Post, father – Philip Post Eleanor Rabb, mother – Steve Rabb Benjamin Rabinovitz, father – Lewis Rabinovitz Maureen Elovitz, sister – Julie & George Risisky Nathan Pahuskin, father – Lillian Rosenberg Herman M. Leavitt, grandfather – Deborah R. Rosenfeld Edward Rosenfield, husband –Andrea Rosenfield

14 Beth El Temple  West Hartford, CT  www.bethelwesthartford.org  860.233.9696

Leonard Bartnick, father – Bonnie & Jay Roston Benjamin Yush, grandfather – Kim Roth Fanny Cohen, grandmother – Gloria Rubin Edward Schupack, father – Beth & Bernie Schilberg Sherwin Schloss, father – Sharon & Michael Schloss Marjorie Mentzer, mother; Catherine Mentzer, sister – Melissa Mentzer Dr. Emanuel Roth, father – Dr. Shari Roth Florence Shakun, mother – Harlan Shakun Aaron Shakun, father – Beth & Mitchell Shakun Henry Seltzer, grandfather – Karen & Roy Shakun Wilfred Shapiro, father – Larry Shapiro Israel Raucher, grandfather – Cyral Sheldon Goldie Portman, mother; Louis Siegal, father – Phyllis & Gerald Siegal Irene M. Goldberg, step-mother – Judy Singer Ruth Stein, mother – Regan & Barry Stein Lena Sussman, grandmother – J. Bruce Sussman George Denes, father; Lily Eisler, grandmother – Marge & Ricky Swaye Rose Newman, sister; Dan Aronie, nephew – Shirley Wachtel Abby Weiner, husband; Helen & Bernard Levine, parents – Bonnie Weiner Dorothy Lindenberg, mother – Judith Weisman Janet Zimmerman, wife; Gustav Zimmerman, father – Richard Zimmerman Jacob Fundiller, father; Murray Zweig, father – Doreen Fundiller- Zweig & Elliot Zweig Murray Zweig, father – Richard Zweig

Rosen Family Kehillah Kedosha Fund in Memory of Elsie Farber, mother of Nancy Rosen – Marci & Jonathan Alter, Shelley & Michael Barker, Vida & Eliot Barron, Melissa & Joel Bauman, Ruth & Bert Berlin, Carolyn & Stu Bernstein, Judy Borus, Sandra Brook, Barbara & David Brown, Roberta Buland, Ahuva & Anthony Cerritelli, Shelley & Alan Cetel, Adam & Cindy Cohen, Karen & Lawrence Cohen, Naomi & Michael Cohen, Meryl & Mitchell Danitz, Harriet Dannhauser, Gail & Barry Deitsch, Sharon & Bob Efron, Jeanne & Marshall Elman, Emmy & Steve Fast, Halley Faust, Korine & Ron Ferraro, Matthew Friedman, Ilana Garber & Adam Berkowitz, Whitney Whitaker & Gerry Garfield, Annette Gavens, Loren & Joel Gelber, Donald Gershman & family, Susan Gluck, Laurie Goldstein, Sharon Gorlick, Barbara & Bob Green, Debbie & Richard Gutcheon, Leonard Guthart, Cheryl & John Hinze, the Hoffman family, Mindy & Jeremy Jason, Susan & Allen Kallor, Eva & Michael Kaplan, Leah Katz, Debra & Howard Katz, Jeanne & Dan Kleinman, Myra & Bill Kleinman, Michele & Dane Kostin, Lois & Chuck Koteen, Abbey Kreinik, Elaine & Harry Lane, Miriam Lappen, Steve Leshem, Peter Levine, Annette & Jack Levine, Diane & Richard Lieberfarb, Marilyn Steinmetz & Stephen Lieberman, Karen & Rob Ludgin, Linda & Joel Malkoff, Janet & Joel Miller, Robin & Len Oremland, Sherri Pliskin, Philip Post, Joanne & Arthur Rome, Judy & David Rosenthal, Bonnie & Jay Roston, Robin & Rafi Santiago, Susan & Michael Schenker, Lea & Bernie Selig, Laurie & Marshall Shakun, Gale & Larry Shapiro, Phyllis & Jerry Siegal, Jan Glassman & Joel Sowalsky, Anne Stein, Ruth Stern, Norma Jean & Robert Sternschein, Marc Sussman, Marge & Ricky Swaye, Dorine & Marty Toyen, Shirley Wachtel, Susan & Stuart Wachtel, Jodi & Brett Wasserlauf, Patti & Howard Weiner, Hilary Freedman & Howard Zern Naomi & Michael Cohen Endowment Fund Wishing a Speedy Recovery to Michael Cohen – Joanne & Saul Pasternack (continues) Temple Topics  Vol. LVI, No. 4  March-April 2021  Adar-Nissan-Iyar 5781 15

Supporting Beth El, cont. General Unrestricted Endowment Fund Sharon & Bob Efron Family Fund Garfield Family Fund in Honor of in Memory of in memory of Jamie Garfield Jordan & Corinna Grossman – Donald Miriam Klau, granddaughter of Bobby & in Honor of Grossman David; Ruth Goldschmidt, mother of Bat mitzvah of daughter, Nika – Whitney Birth of Jacob Henry, grandson of Debbie Leah Katz; Marvin Sperling, husband of Whitaker & Gerry Garfield Prince & David Goldberg; birth of Sidra – Sharon & Bob Efron Solomon Ethan Steinhardt, grandson of Gavens Family College Youth Fund for the Yahrzeit of for the Yahrzeit of Meryl & Mitchell Danitz – Abbey Sheila Rosenblatt, aunt; Wendy Schulman, Kreinik Seymour Gavens, husband of Annette – friend – Sharon & Bob Efron Andrew & Sara Gavens, Leah Paretzky in Memory of Jane & Nathan Field Memorial Fund Marvin Sperling, husband of Sidra – Goldberg Endowment Fund for Esther & Stephen Aronson, Annette in Memory of Education Gavens, Abbey Kreinik, Barrie Leonard Mirabel, father of Ellari – Emmy & Steve Fast in Honor of Kreinik, Kerry & Fernando Rausch Wedding anniversary of Caryl & Leonard Selma Stein – Susan & Bob Bahr Friends Fund for Members in Need Goldberg – Joan & Arthur Tenser Dr. Scott Bortman, son of Joan, brother of in Appreciation of in Memory of Charna Kaufman – Debbie & Lewis Beth El Temple for the wonderful support Elsie Farber, mother of Nancy Rosen – Cohen, Monica & Lee Gold given us – Patti & Howard Weiner Caryl & Leonard Goldberg David Brody, husband of Shirley – Debbie in Honor of Marvin Sperling, husband of Sidra – Caryl Prince & David Goldberg Patti & Howard Weiner – Mark & Leonard Goldberg, Greenebaum- Ruth Goldschmidt, mother of Leah Katz – Kolovson, Lois Siegal Levin family Lois & Chuck Koteen, Abbey Kreinik Our children & grandchildren – Fran & Golder Family Fund Ada Goldstein, mother of Elizabeth and Fred Landy Richard– Lois & Chuck Koteen 50th wedding anniversary of Carolyn & in Honor of Miriam Klau, granddaughter of Bobby & Stuart Bernstein – Judy & David Birth of Solomon Ethan Steinhardt, David – Abbey Kreinik Rosenthal grandson of Meryl & Mitchell Danitz – Elsie Farber, mother of Nancy Rosen – Alison & Alan Gittleman Kerry & Fernando Rausch in Memory of Elaine Kagan, mother of Tammy Levine – in Memory of For the Yahrzeit of Andrea Hotes, Alys & Jack Krichavsky, Rhoda “Maidie” Resnick, mother of Frank; Walter Cook – Beth Cook Joyce & Richard Leibert Elsie Farber, mother of Nancy Rosen; Shirley Feiner; Elsie Farber, mother of Hattie Kaufman, sister of Francine Stier – Alter Family Fund Alison & Alan Gittleman in Memory of Nancy Rosen – Joyce & Richard Leibert Miriam Klau, granddaughter of Bobby & Ruth Goldschmidt, mother of Leah Katz – Anna Heineman Memorial Fund David; Marvin Sperling, husband of Judy & David Rosenthal in Memory of Sidra; Ruth Goldschmidt, mother of Leah Dr. Scott Bortman, son of Joan, brother of Hattie Kaufman, sister of Francine Stier – Katz – Marci & Jonathan Alter Charna Kaufman; Esther Bokoff –Patti Susan Gluck, Barbara & Bob Green, & Howard Weiner Myra & Bill Kleinman, Philip Post, Judith & David Borus Family Joanne & Arthur Rome Endowment Fund for the Yahrzeit of Robert Rosenfield, father; Alfred for the Yahrzeit of in Memory of Rosenthal, father – Judy & David Marvin Sperling, husband of Sidra; Elaine Aaron Anshel, grandfather –Francine & Rosenthal Steven Stier Kagan, mother of Tammy Levine; Ruth Sheldon Mesnick; Morton Kass – Marcia Goldschmidt, mother of Leah Katz – & David Waitzman Ruth & Harry Kleinman Judy Borus Endowment Fund for the Yahrzeit of Resnick Family Fund in Memory of David Borus, husband; Beatrice & Irwin in Memory of Marvin Sperling, husband of Sidra – Krams, parents – Judy Borus Rhoda “Maidie” Resnick, mother of Frank Jeanne & Dan Kleinman – Barbara Honiberg & Len Tamsky, Thomas Adam Epstein, brother of Ann Frances & Philip D. Feltman Fund Myra & Bill Kleinman, Rita & Stephen Brandwein – Myra & Bill Kleinman in Memory of Osit, Patti & Howard Weiner George Feltman – Judy & David Marvin Sperling, husband of Sidra – Judy Wishing a Speedy Recovery to Rosenthal, Patti & Howard Weiner & Frank Resnick Howard Weiner – Myra & Bill Kleinman

16 Beth El Temple  West Hartford, CT  www.bethelwesthartford.org  860.233.9696

Doing Mitzvot Chesed (Kindness) Committee – Supporting Our Members COORDINATOR: Leah Katz, [email protected] KNITzvah Group MEAL TRAIN: Barbara Checknoff, barbarachecknoff@aol.com CONTACT: BJ & Fran, [email protected] Beth El El is is a communitya community that cares.that cares. That incl udes ourUnfortunately, Mitzvah Projects with throughout COVID Greater ThatHartford includes and caring our for ourMitzvah own members.Projects restrictions we cannot provide any Our KNITzvah mission is throughoutWe are prepared Greater to provide Hartford assistance and to our members,transportation especially during at this periods time. of illness or the making cozy gifts for passing of a loved one, with a friendly phone call, preparing meals (Meal Train), or doing caring for our own members. Volunteers give time once a week, people who errands, such as grocery shopping or for other essentials. Unfortunately, with COVID might need a Werestrictions are prepared we cannot to provide provide any assistance transportation atevery this time.other week, or even once a little extra to our members, especially during month. Individuals, couples, or entire Volunteers give time once a week, every other week, or even once a month. Individuals, couples, love. We periods of illness or the passing of a families can volunteer; this could be a or entire families can volunteer; this could be a meaningful bar/t mitzvah project. continue to loved one, with a friendly phone call, meaningful bar/t mitzvah project. Contact us to see how we can help ease this time, or if you want to be part of our volunteer work from preparing meals (Meal Train), or corps. Contact us to see how we can help home to make strings into doing errands, such as grocery ease this time, or if you want to be things that give comfort shopping or for other essentials. part of our volunteer corps. and warmth to others!

Supporting Beth El, cont.

Koteen Family Fund Ludgin Family Endowment Fund Clara & Mickey Sowalsky in Appreciation of in Memory of Gabbai Rishon Endowment Fund Lois Koteen – Myra & Bill Kleinman Dr. Scott Bortman, son of Joan, brother of in Appreciation of for the Yahrzeit of Charna Kaufman – Karen & Rob Rabbi Sowalsky – Loren & Joel Gelber, Bernard & Sherley Koteen, parents – Lois Ludgin Leah Katz, Myra & Bill Kleinman, & Chuck Koteen Lois & Alvin Reiner Family Fund Janet & Harold Moskowitz, Francine & in Memory of Steve Stier Krasow Greenblatt Family Fund Rabbi Sowalsky for the bat mitzvah of in Memory of Alvin Reiner, father of Jim & Gail – Myra & Bill Kleinman, Nancy Schwartz & daughter, Nika – Whitney Whitaker & Norma Ruff Greenblatt & Max Greenblatt, Gerry Garfield parents; Esther Levine Krasow & Harry family in Memory of Krasow, parents – Zadelle & Arthur Michael & Susan Schenker Greenblatt David Brody, husband of Shirley; Jordan Endowment Fund Lassoff – Jan Glassman & Joel Sowalsky Kreinik Family Endowment Fund in Memory of for the Yahrzeit of Ruth Goldschmidt, mother of Leah Katz; Sussman Families Endowment Fund Stephen Kreinik, husband – Abbey Marvin Sperling, husband of Sidra – for the Yahrzeit of Kreinik Susan & Michael Schenker Bernard Sussman, father; Roslynn Sussman, sister; Lena Sussman, Marc S. Levine & Tamara Kagan Levine for the Yahrzeit of grandmother – Marc Sussman Leo Novarr, father; Daniel Novarr, brother Family Endowment Fund Nathan & Ruth Sweedler Family in Memory of – Susan & Michael Schenker Elaine Kagan, mother of Tammy Levine – Laurie & Marshall Shakun Family Fund Endowment Fund in Honor of Cindy & Adam Cohen, Meryl & for the Yahrzeit of st Mitchell Danitz, Marsha & Warren Aaron Shakun, father – Laurie & Marshall 101 birthday of Ruth Sweedler – Lois & Fisher, Annette Gavens, Barbara & Shakun Chuck Koteen, Abbey Kreinik Bob Green, Abbey Kreinik, Patti & Rose & Charles Silverman Fund Amy E Toyen Endowment Fund Howard Weiner in Memory of in Memory of Diane & Richard Lieberfarb Elaine Kagan, mother of Tammy Levine – Hattie Kaufman, sister of Francine Stier – Endowment Fund Jennifer & Nathaniel Brogadir & Marilyn & Alan Rothstein in Honor of family, Cheryl & David Epstein, Mary for the Yahrzeit of Bat mitzvah of Chloe Fromberg; 75th Epstein & family, Debra & Bruce Albert Rothstein, father; Frieda Simon, birthday of Lois Schwartz; 69th wedding Fischman, Jane & Kenneth Gardner, mother; Molly Hammer, grandmother – anniversary of Estelle & Abe Bernstein; Rochelle & Zane Gershman & family, Marilyn & Alan Rothstein new home of Ina & Mark Roffman – Kayleen Goldstein & family, Mitchell I. Milton Widem Adult Education Fund Diane & Richard Lieberfarb Jaffe, Dr. Jeff Kagan, Annette & Jack in Memory of in Memory of Levine, Elizabeth Martin, Lori & George Feltman; Elsie Farber, mother of Marvin Sperling, husband of Sidra – Diane Douglas Meyerson, Alison & Owen Nancy Rosen; Marvin Sperling, husband & Richard Lieberfarb Minde, Kathy Pope, Joanne & Arthur of Sidra – Susan Widem Rome, Debra Mach & Jim Rosen, Judy for the Yahrzeit of & David Rosenthal, Susan & Michael for the Yahrzeit of Jane & Walter Wertheim, parents – Schenker, Tovia Sillman, Susan & Joseph Widem, grandfather – Susan Marsha & Warren Fisher Marty Ungar Widem

Temple Topics  Vol. LVI, No. 4  March-April 2021  Adar-Nissan-Iyar 5781 17

AGES: USY is grades 8-12; Jr. USY is grades 5-7 West Hartford United Synagogue Youth MEMBERSHIP: the chapter will cover the cost of #MyUSYfi Spring, contact Tamar ADVISOR: Tamar Mor, [email protected] Winter Region Calendar INFORMATION & REGISTRATION: www.usy.org/myusyfispring CO-SPONSORS: Beth El Temple, The Emanuel Synagogue SAT MAR 6 Jr. USY Havdalah Happening This year’s programming is thanks, in part, to grants WED MAR 10 USY Lounge Night with HaNer, from USY and the Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford. ECRUSY, and Tzafon SAT MAR 20 Seniors Night (grade 12 only) Winter Chapter Calendar WED APR 7 USY HaNer Lounge Night SAT MAR 13 Shabbat Morning, see p6 SAT APR 10 Jr. USY PJ Havdalah Happening SUN APR 4 Virtual Trivia Night F-SUN APR 30-MAY 2 USY HaNer Spring Convention SAT APR 24 Shabbat Morning, see p6 Engaging Generations Appreciation for Sponsoring a Bar and Bat Mitzvah Celebrations Grab and Go Kiddush Ezra Genser Betty & Herb Hoffman March 13, 2021 Lois & Chuck Koteen Ezra, son of Amy & Geoff Genser of West InformationHartford, brother on Barof Milo and and Bat Jonah, grandson New Members Mitzvah celebrations is available Sandra & David Bendor, with Eli, Wesley, and Dayna of Vicki & Lenny Eisenfeld and Patricia & from the Temple Office. th Bendor Stuary Genser, all from West Hartford, is a 7 Sandy & Alvin Parven grader at King Philip Middle School. Congratulations Alexander Simon Patt Diane & Ron Salm, on birth of granddaughter, Hailey April 17, 2021 Holt Alex, son of Ivy & Avi Patt of West Hartford, Dora & Rabbi Howard Sowalsky, on birth of brother of Maya and Micah, grandson of Brina Einstein from Cambridge, MA, and Nurit & granddaugher, Hope Reigns Grande th Jessica & Eric Zachs, Judy Zachs, and Henry Zachs, on Yehuda Patt of Santa Fe, NM, is an 8 grader at engagement of son/grandson Jacob and Kate Kudish Bristow Middle School. Alex volunteered with Correction: Doreen Fundiller-Zweig & Elliot Zweig, Unified Sports in West Hartford, where he had a great time on birth of granddaughter, Maya Isabelle Zweig playing basketball while mentoring other players. Of Blessed Memory Sawyer Roan Hollander Scott Bortman, son of Joan Bortman, brother of April 24, 2021 Sawyer, son of Michelle Hollander and Josh Charna Kaufman Hollander, both of West Hartford, brother of David I. Brody, husband of Shirley K. Brody Duncan and Hudson, grandson of Cheryl & Alice Feinstein, mother of Janice Hechter David Epstein and Carol Hollander, is a 7th Sandra Gershman, mother of Don Gershman grader at King Philip Middle School. Stacy Gilson Dunoff, daughter of Harriet & Jerome Gilson Ellie Mira Kay Ada Goldstein, mother of Richard and Elizabeth May 1, 2021 Debra Goldstein, wife of Richard Goldstein Ellie, daughter of Arielle & Jason Kay of West Herbert Goodman, brother of Robert Goodman Hartford, sister of Avi and Jesse, granddaughter Ruth Goldschmidt, mother of Leah Katz of Marta & Mark Koblenz, Wendy Kay-Bates & Robert Bruce Gurne, brother of Ellie Jainchill, David Bates, and Lisajo & Joseph Kay, all of uncle of Carol Starr Albany, NY, is a 7th grader at the Solomon Elaine Kagan, mother of Tammy Kagan Levine Schechter Day School of Greater Hartford. Ellie is volunteering Miriam Klau, granddaughter of Barbara (Bobby) & at JFS's Kosher Food Pantry to help prepare and distribute bags David Klau, niece of Michal Klau-Stevens of food to families throughout our community. Natalie Levine, mother of Michelle Konigsburg Faye Neiberg, mother of Brian Neiberg Michael Rothberg, father of Amy Goldman If you would like to share your Simchas and Sorrows with the Beth El Community, please send your Life Cycle announce- Frances Shmerling, mother of James Shmerling ments to Laurea in the Office: [email protected].

18 Beth El Temple  West Hartford, CT  www.bethelwesthartford.org  860.233.9696

Preparing - Passover, cont. Seder-in-a-Box Mekhirat Chametz REGISTER BY: FRIDAY, MARCH 19 NOON PICK-UP ON: FRIDAY, MARCH 26 11:00 AM – 2 PM Transfer of Ownership COST: voluntary contribution Send this form to the Beth El Office, attn: REGISTER: tinyurl.com/SederinaBox QUESTIONS: Temple Office, 860-233-9696 Laurea, or complete the online form at NOTE: each box serves 2 people tinyurl.com/ChametzBET. LIMIT: 2 boxes per family I hereby transfer to an agent, Rabbi Jim Rosen, all Chametz in my possession located at my home, from 9:00 am on March 26, 2021, A Visit to Tulip Winery – Live from Israel through the end of Passover. SUNDAY, MARCH 7 1 PM COST: $18, visit only; $75, includes three wines for tasting Name REGISTER: by 3/7, noon for visit only, tinyurl.com/TulipPassoverWines; Address wine orders must be placed by 2/24; additional wine can be ordered, with free shipping! QUESTIONS: Sharon Efron, [email protected] City, ST, Zip Robin Santiago, [email protected] CO-SPONSORS: Beth El Temple, BSBI of Manchester, and Temple Emeth of Chestnut Hill, MA Phone Perched on a mountainside in Kfar Tikvah, Village of Hope, is Tulip Winery, overlooking the lush E-mail Jezreel Valley. Tulip’s winemaker Ro'i Itzchaki employs many of the 200 local adults who struggle Please consider a contribution to Maot Chitin with developmental and emotional disabilities. He (Passover Fund for the Needy) or Mazon (a Jewish hires them to learn the wine trade, giving them jobs Response to Hunger). as they integrate into mainstream society. A huge piece of Tulip winery's mission is to employ these ______Maot Chitin (Passover Fund for the Needy) individuals – in this way Kfar Tikvah truly ______Mazon (a Jewish Response to Hunger) embodies its name, a Village of Hope.

Beth El Temple @BethElWH Main Office: of West Hartford Inc. 860.233.9696 @BethElWH 2626 Albany Avenue SULAM: West Hartford, CT 06117 860.233.9891 beth.el.temple.wh bethelwesthartford.org Fax: 860.233.9892 Jim Rosen, Rabbi [email protected] Joseph Ness, Cantor [email protected] Published every two months. Stanley M. Kessler z’’l, Rabbi Emeritus Following the deadline schedule Rabbi Howard Sowalsky, [email protected] below, please submit articles to: Ritual & Executive Director [email protected] Judith Rosenthal, President [email protected] 1/25 for March-April Michelle Konigsburg, [email protected] 3/25 for May-June SULAM Director 5/25 for July-August Lydia Lutt, [email protected] 7/25 for September-October Social Media and Marketing Coordinator 9/25 for November-December 11/25 for January-February Jason Kay, [email protected] Engagement Coordinator Send Life Cycle announcements to: Deborah R. Rosenfeld, Editor [email protected] [email protected]

Temple Topics  Vol. LVI, No. 4  March-April 2021  Adar-Nissan-Iyar 5781 19 2626 Albany Avenue Presorted West Hartford, CT 06117 First Class U.S. Postage Paid Hartford, CT Permit No. 4331

Making Connections Getting the Real Story: Uncovering Never-Before-Told Stories about the Most Famous Stars in Sports MONDAY, APRIL 5 8:00 – 9:00 PM COST: no charge REGISTER: by 4/1, tinyurl.com/BETRealStories QUESTIONS: Dave Diamond, 860-965-3157, [email protected] New York Times best-selling author Jeff Pearlman discusses long-form writing about controversial sports topics. He is known for conducting hundreds of in-depth interviews for each of the stories he tells. Pearlman has profiled superstars Brett Favre, Barry Bonds, Walter Payton, and Roger Clemens, as well as the United States Football League, teams including the 1986 New York Met, the 1990's Dallas Cowboys, and his latest release, Three Ring Circus, on the dynamics behind the Lakeshow Lakers starring Kobe, Shaq, and Phil Jackson.

So You Want to Talk About Race TUESDAY, APRIL 27 8:00 – 9:00 PM COST: no charge REGISTER: tinyurl.com/BETAboutRace QUESTIONS: Michelle Kunzman, 860-729-4201, [email protected] SPONSOR: Women’s Network Joy Wright, Principal of King Philip Middle School, will facilitate a discussion of this NY Times bestseller by Ijeoma Oluo. This is a continuation of BET's conversation about antiracism and unconscious bias. In this breakout book, Oluo explores the complex reality of www.campramahne.org today's racial landscape – from white privilege and Please contact Josh Edelglass at police brutality to systemic discrimination and the [email protected] Black Lives Matter movement – offering to learn more! straightforward clarity that readers need to contribute to the dismantling of the racial divide.