The Bulletin Was Being Prepared, This Year’S Recipient Had Not Yet Been Selected

Beth El Bulletin

May 2019 Beth El Hebrew Congregation Nissan/Iyyar 5779

ANNUAL BROTHERHOOD Worship Services MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH Friday, May 3 Erev Shabbat Service, Brotherhood’s annual Mother’s Day Brunch is on Sunday, May 12 at 10 am 7:30 pm in the Social Hall. All women, and not just mothers, will be the guests of Saturday, May 4 Brotherhood. Come enjoy a delicious Brotherhood- Shabbat Morning Service and Bar Mitzvah of catered brunch and (back by popular demand) be en- Michael Katz, son of Jon tertained by Beth El’s own Rock Hard Bagels. As is our and Dina Katz, tradition, ladies will receive a rose of appreciation, 10:30 am compliments of Brotherhood. Tot Shabbat, 11 am Friday, May 10 For payments received by May 6, the cost to gentle- Erev Shabbat Service, men is $8 per Brotherhood member and $10 per non- 7:30 pm Brotherhood member. The cost is $12 for gentlemen Saturday, May 11 who pay at the door. The brunch is complimentary for Shabbat Morning Service ladies. and Bar Mitzvah of Jonah Hilbert, son of Michael To guarantee guests a seat — and to help us determine the number of and Grace Hilbert, brunches to be prepared — advance reservations are required for all men and 10:30 am women attending. So please RSVP by May 5 to Ron Sturman Friday, May 17 ([email protected]). Erev Shabbat Service, 7:30 pm Saturday, May 18 Shabbat Morning Service and Bar Mitzvah of In this Issue Charles Sokolove, son of Eric and Kathleen Rabbi’s Remarks ...... 2 Alexandria’s Yom Hashoah Calendar ...... 12-13 Sokolove, Marc Ross Scholarship ...... 2 Commemoration ...... 6 Mahj Mayhem ...... 14 10:30 am Tot Shabbat, 11 am Cantor’s Corner ...... 3 Evening with Friends ...... 6 Purim Carnival Volunteers . 15 Friday, May 24 ALIVE! ...... 3 WRJ Social Action ...... 7 Study in Israel Program ...... 16 Erev Shabbat Service, President’s Point of Permanent Endowment Chapel in the Woods ...... 17 7:30 pm View ...... 4 Fund ...... 7 Rock Hard Bagels ...... 17 Saturday, May 25 Education Director Search Brotherhood News ...... 8 BEHC/JCCNV Events ...... 19 Shabbat Morning Service, 10:30 am Update ...... 4 Readers of Beth El ...... 8 Donations ...... 20 Friday, May 31 Caring Community Culture Club ...... 8 WRJ Women’s Seder ...... 21 Erev Shabbat Service/ Committee ...... 4 WRJ News ...... 9 ...and lots of tantalizing tidbits WRJ Shabbat, 7:30 pm Religious School Report ...... 5 Playground Fundraising scattered throughout, ECLC News ...... 5 Update ...... 10 so don’t skip a page! Executive Director’s Member News ...... 11 Entry ...... 6 B’Nei Mitzvah ...... 11

Page 2 Rabbi’s Remarks Barry Smith: The Heart of a Teacher, the Soul of a Mensch

ARRY SMITH, our long cessful career as an environmental attorney. Urged by a time and beloved Jewish friend who noted Barry’s love for the Jewish people and B educator will retire from his passion for learning, Barry pursued his Master’s de- Beth El Hebrew Congregation at the end of June. Since gree in Jewish education. And, in making the difficult 2003, for nearly a full generation, Barry has been the professional transition from attorney to Jewish educator, face and the voice of supplementary religious education Barry chose not only to become a teacher, but to become at Beth El. To put his tenure into perspective, Barry be- a teacher of Torah. On this honorable but difficult path, gan serving our congregation during the same year that time and again Barry stood for what he taught: A love of our 2019 confirmands were born! It is then only fitting Judaism, a love of people, and an insistence that all peo- that we honor Barry for his achievements and for his ple enjoy a seat at the table. During his tenure, Beth El contributions to our congregational community as part has become a significantly more inclusive community. of our special 2019 Confirmation service on Friday, Thanks to him and in partnership with outstanding pro- June 7, at 7:30 pm. fessional staff and lay leaders, our House of God is one Although I have known Barry for a relatively short in which we constantly strive to ensure that Jewish chil- time, in reflecting on his service to the congregation, dren have a congregational home that responds to their resonant are these words from Rabbi Abraham Joshua learning, emotional, and physical needs. While the road Heschel: to complete inclusion may be endless, without Barry’s “Everything depends on the person who stands in leadership we would not be as far along the path as we front of the classroom. The teacher is not an automatic are. fountain from which intellectual beverages may be ob- In keeping with Barry’s tremendous humility, he at tained. The teacher is either a witness or a stranger. To first insisted that he receive no special celebration. After guide a pupil into the promised land, the teacher must much arm-twisting, he finally acquiesced and allowed us have been there themselves. When asking themselves: to honor him as a part of our Confirmation service on ‘Do I stand for what I teach?’ and ‘Do I believe what I Friday, June 7 at 7:30 pm. While we had planned to en- say?’, the teacher must be able to answer in the affirma- rich our celebration with a delicious dinner catered by tive. What we need more than anything else is not text- the Brotherhood prior to services, because of his humili- books, but textpeople. It is the personality of the teacher ty and an upcoming private celebratory dinner with Beth which is the text that the pupils read: the text that they El teachers, Barry prefers that we not. Instead, join us will never forget.” for an extra special Oneg following services featuring A more apropos description of Barry the teacher, music from our own Rock Hard Bagels. Barry the mensch, and Barry the textperson cannot be Barry is adamantly opposed to receiving any gifts of found. At Beth El, Barry is a stranger to no one and a gratitude for his service, and it comes as no surprise that witness to the joys of Jewish community built through he would prefer that all material expressions of thanks education. For his kindness and for his child-focused be instead directed toward our Beth El children. For approach to education, Barry is loved by our families. those who wish to offer a gift of thanks in honor of Bar- For his creativity and collaboration, Barry is respected ry Smith, he asks that we donate to the Ina Lerner Fund, by our teachers. our scholarship fund that helps to underwrite the costs of In Heschel’s words, a teacher must be one who has Beth El teens traveling to Israel. To donate, please visit “been there” himself. As many of us know, prior to be- our website or call Beth El. See you on June 7! coming a Jewish educator Barry enjoyed a long and suc- — Rabbi Spinrad

Marc Ross Scholarship Award Presentation Mark your calendar to attend Shabbat services on Friday, May 24, at which the recipient of the 2019 Marc Ross Scholarship will be recognized. This Scholarship is awarded annually to a graduating Beth El high school senior who is going on to college and who has made significant contributions during his or her high school years to the Beth El and/or the Jewish community. At the time that the Bulletin was being prepared, this year’s recipient had not yet been selected.

Beth El Bulletin May 2019 Beth El Hebrew Congregation Page 3 Cantor’s Corner Our Sweet Singer, Paul Edson z’l

T IS WITH PROFOUND sadness that I share with special soul to beautify a religious tradi- you the loss of our friend, Paul Edson. Paul Edson tion, that is not its own, through music. I has sung in the Beth El High Holiday services the Paul was this special soul. past 5 years as our professional bass singer as well as A week after Paul’s passing, I partic- other Friday night services throughout the years. Paul ipated in his memorial service at the was a rock solid musician, a leader in our high holiday Clarendon United Methodist Church in Arlington, a musical family, and a welcomed addition to our Beth El beautiful church that Paul has been involved with for community. I did not know Paul very well — many years. In fact, he began singing there in but I certainly knew Paul well enough to know eighth grade! The congregation was filled what a special person he was. Paul and I with people from around our community who shared a mutual respect for each other’s work. came to show their love and respect to Paul In fact, on many occasions, I would consult and his family. I am glad to have been able to with Paul to ask for his input on an array of bring with me the well wishes of our commu- matters. nity. Of highest importance, Paul was a good- Our congregation is filled with incredible hearted, kind, and decent person. souls, doing the hard work — often out of Anyone who has ever participated in our sight of others — of making sure that our High Holiday choir knows what a labor of love programs run, our building is maintained, and it is to prepare Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kip- our music shines. Do yourself a favor, and pur services. Rehearsals are long and scattered get to know all the people in our synagogue throughout the summer. The music is challenging; it is who help us be our best selves. When we do this, we can filled with challenging Hebrew that may be unfamiliar, truly be a sacred community. and the details to be perfected are plentiful. May Paul’s memory be a blessing, and may he sing Paul was not Jewish, but our High Holiday services for the angels as he sang for us. were so important to him. Can you imagine how much love and care is required for service preparation by someone who is not Jewish, not familiar with Hebrew, — Cantor Kaufman and not familiar with Reform Jewish liturgy? It takes a

HANKS TO EVERYONE who supported this year’s StepALIVE! Walk for the Child Development Center. T If you missed Tzedakah Tzunday, May 5, you can always donate to ALIVE! by going to alive-inc.org or leaving a check in the ALIVE! mailbox in the office. Here is one example of how ALIVE! helps those in need in Alexandria: Last summer, Jessica and her four children received a housing voucher to live in the City of Alexandria and access to wrap-around services — including free food through the ALIVE! Food Program. In September, Jessica’s oldest child was hospi- talized and required considerable care. In order to secure her daughter’s health, Jessica could not work, so the family received an eviction notice. ALIVE! responded with rental assistance from the Emergency Assistance Program, and our volunteers worked with Jessica’s social worker to identify other sources of housing assistance, stabilizing the family in its time of need. After her daughter recovered, Jessica re- sumed her search for a higher-paying job close to their home. For more information about ALIVE! go to alive-inc.org or contact Deborah Schaffer at [email protected].

Page 4 President’s Point of View

ORTY-SIX COLUMNS down, Some of our changes you can’t see. Our security is two to go! As I approach my last constantly being evaluated and new procedures imple- F months as your president, I have mented to provide peace of mind whenever you are in become increasingly nostalgic. So much the building. These improvements are largely due to the has happened since I took the gavel in tireless efforts of our Executive Director, Adam Wal- June 2015. I was never one of those children with lead- lach, his wonderful maintenance staff, and our partners ership aspirations. So why did I do it? My initial foray in the Alexandria Police and Sheriff’s Departments. into leadership was in inclusion, particularly disability I am particularly proud that my presidency saw the inclusion. I put my hand up because I felt that I had cer- implementation of the free will dues program that had tain skills that could make a difference. Many of you been proposed under Linda Waller’s administration. know that I found the idea of leading a rabbi transition This was a bold leap of faith on the part of the board. At daunting—something I never aspired to. I stepped up to the time we began it, we were one of only a handful of be your president, again, because I thought I had some synagogues, and we worried about whether we would skills I learned in my day job and my life so that I felt bring in enough dues to be sustaining. What we found is that I could make a difference. When the time came two that once we told people what running a synagogue actu- years ago to step up for another term, I again raised my ally costs, many stepped up and increased their yearly hand because I wanted to be there for you, and to see amount, and many others contributed through our sup- through what I had started. plemental giving program. The implementation of free What a ride it has been! Just look at our physical will dues removed an impediment to membership for plant! We have a spruced-up sanctuary and social hall. young families, and was instrumental in reversing our Our lights inside and out are brighter, and our building trend of declining membership. That’s right, we are shines with cleanliness! We have automatic openers for growing for the first time in many years. our bathrooms and front doors to assist those of us who I am proud of my contributions to our historic institu- need a little help. Thanks to a generous donation, we tion. Next month, I will speak to the people and experi- will finally have eliminated a barrier to the bimah, and I ences that touched me. For now, enjoy the (finally) nice look forward to that day soon when our new ramp is un- weather, and please join us in dedicating our Ner Tamid veiled. the weekend of May 3. — Julienne Bramesco Education Director Search Update HE EDUCATOR Search Committee continues to move forward with its work. The committee has conducted first and second interviews by phone and ZOOM with applicants. The committee is currently conducting in-person T interviews with candidates as they visit Beth El. The committee will continue to share updates regularly. Committee members include Joel Augen, Dina Backer, Beth El President Julienne Bramesco, Debbie Katz, Maryn Simon, David Spindler, Rabbi David Spinrad, Gal Spinrad, and Chairperson Patrice Gotsch. Committee members can be reached via email at [email protected].

— Dina Backer Caring Community Committee: How Will You Be Remembered?

N SUNDAY, May 19, at 1 pm, don’t miss a one-hour presentation and discussion by Rabbi David Spinrad at Beth El on Writing an Ethical Will: Traditions, Values and Practical Advice. Helpful handouts will be available. O How may we help you? The CCC can deliver a meal, pick up a prescription, provide resources, lend an ear, help at a shiva and do any number of useful tasks for congregants. If we know of your need, we can help. Con- tact Ruth Perlstein, CCC Chair, at [email protected] or 703-978-9341.

Beth El Bulletin May 2019 Beth El Hebrew Congregation Page 5

Religious School Report

HALOM CHAVERIM, S This is my last Beth El Bulletin article. It will not be the long- est; it is the hardest to write, however. I have been blessed for the last 16 years to be engaged in work that I love, working with dedicated Jewish educators, clergy that have made Jewish learning and living a priority, a maintenance staff that never says no, office support staff who always go above and beyond, and Beth El lay leadership and congregants that value Jewish learning and living. Todah rabah for wonderful memories and the opportunity for me to make a small contribution towards enhancing our Jewish young people’s un- derstanding of Judaism’s relevance to their lives.

L’Shalom Barry Smith, Director of Education [email protected]

ECLC News

T IS SO EXCITING to share some incredible outdoor news with you. The Rabbi Isserow Outdoor Play Space fundraising efforts are moving along with much success. We are grateful to generous and supportive donors who, I in just a few short weeks, have brought us to a staggering $137,933 in donations and pledges (as of April 10). I am certain that by the time you read this at the beginning of May, that amount will be larger and the remaining $62,077 amount needed to reach our goal will be much smaller. Maybe it will be gone altogether. It will be gone if you can help us now. Please watch for updates and details to come. And, if you need information or have questions about contributing, please do not hesitate to be in touch with me. Hopefully, it will only be a matter of time before we see the changes right before our eyes! I can’t wait!

— Dina Backer

Federation’s JCYCLE Community Bike Ride WHEN: Sunday, May 5 WHERE: Two options: Begin at Capital Camps & Retreat Center or Walnut Ridge Park; end at Bender JCC of Greater Washington Join The Jewish Federation and cycling enthusiasts in Greater Washington for the inaugural JCYCLE Community Bike Ride! Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or new to the sport, everyone can ride and raise funds to help more kids in our community experience the joy of Jewish summer camp.

Page 6 Executive Director’s Entry S WE APPROACH May 3, I The artist, Claude Riedel, has a similar Holocaust con- can’t help reflecting on the Eter- nection to mine. His grandfather was also arrested on A nal Light that we are dedicating. Kristallnacht and sent to Buchenwald. Claude’s family As you may remember, the light was in- migrated to Ecuador and then to the US. spired by the Holocaust. Wire that frames Once I researched this Eternal Light and spoke to the the light came from the barbed wire fence encircling a artist about its history and his connection, I knew it be- camp in Eastern Europe. The Ner Tamid gives me such a longed here at Beth El. Turning something so dark into sense of pride both for our congregation and personally. such a beautiful piece of artwork is such a positive mes- My grandfather Hermann, a German WWI veteran, sage. It also reminds me of the privilege to serve this was arrested during Kristallnacht. His crime was being community and honor my father. Jewish. He was sent to Dachau. My grandmother went to the Gestapo and demanded that her ‘war hero’ hus- Please join us for Dedication Weekend: band be released. After paying a bribe, my grandmother Shabbat Community Dinner secured his release. Hermann had to sign a document May 3, 6:15 pm that he would leave Germany immediately. He settled in Louvain, Belgium, and was reunited with the family Kabbalat Shabbat Ner Tamid Dedication months later. May 3, 7:30 pm Once in Louvain, my father was hidden in a Catholic Shabbat Morning Service orphanage for the duration of the war. Belgium fell May 4, 10:30 am quickly to the Nazis. My father was raised Catholic, told that his parents died in a blitz raid, and that his last name Shabbat Lunch & Learn with artist Claude Riedel was Duval. May 4, 12:30 pm The inspiration and barbed wire for our Ner Tamid comes from Ruth Elias when she toured Hasaq, the la- Adam Wallach bor camp in Poland where her parents and other relatives Executive Director worked as slave laborers with as many as 5,000 others.

Alexandria’s 2019 Yom Save the Date for 2019 Hashoah Commemoration Evening with Friends!

EMBERS OF Beth El Hebrew Congregation and UR EVENING with Friends fundraising Agudas Achim Congregation are on the City of Alex- event is back this year and will take place M andria committee that has planned the Holocaust Re- the weekends of June 1-2 and 8-9. Invita- membrance Day Commemoration that will take place at Alexan- O tions will be arriving soon. Please save the date(s) dria City Hall on Thursday, May 2 from noon – 1:00 pm. and plan to join us for an intimate and This yearly event, Yom Hashoah, recalls the period between relaxing evening of food and drink hosted by 1933 and 1945 when Nazi Germany and collaborating nations targeted for destruction six million Jews and five million other members of the Beth El community. victims, including the Roma (Gypsies), political dissenters, intel- Please contact Matt Mutterperl at lectuals, homosexuals, artists, the disabled, and the mentally [email protected] or Harmony Knutson at challenged. [email protected] to volunteer to host or for In 1988, Alexandria’s Mayor, James P. Moran, inspired by a more information. trip to Israel, initiated the Days of Remembrance Commemora- tion, and Alexandria became the first municipality to have a for- mal observance of the Holocaust. This year will mark the 32nd time that the City of Alexandria has sponsored this event.

— Ron Sturman [email protected]

Beth El Bulletin May 2019 Beth El Hebrew Congregation Page 7 WRJ Social Action

HANK YOU!!! Thank you to all of you who responded to the Alexandria Domestic Violence Program’s (ADVP) last-minute emergency request to T help fill their food pantry — you are amazing! Our two-week collection of supplies for ADVP filled their shelves!

Janet Garber 703-256-7988 [email protected]

Come join us for the Annual Meeting of the Beth El Permanent Endowment Fund Sunday, June 9, 2019, 10 am to noon Seminar Room The Trustees of the Permanent Endowment Fund — Evan Allen, Dana Arnold, Jeremy Flachs, Janet Garber, and Ernie Levy — welcome you to the annual meeting. Trustee terms are ending for Evan Allen, Janet Garber, and Ernie Levy. This year, we are expanding the number of trustees to seven and will be electing trustees to fill the new 6th and 7th positions. The Nominating Committee proposes the following people to fill the expiring and new positions:

• Janet Garber (for a second three-year term) • Ernie Levy (for a second three-year term) • Dorrit Lowsen (for a first three-year term) • Michael Bluestein (for a first three-year term, new trustee position) • Daniel Rothschild (for a first three-year term, new trustee position)

Any voting member may petition for an alternate slate of nominees directly to the secretary, Dana Arnold, [email protected], at least 20 days prior to the meeting, and notice of the alternative nominees will be provided to the membership by the Secretary at least 10 days prior to the meeting.

The Trustees look forward to meeting with you to discuss the Endowment Fund’s progress and to elect the new trustees. We have a lot of exciting things to discuss with you.

Page 8 Brotherhood News S ALWAYS, it seems that we are barely closing 3, as well as for Brotherhood’s annual Mother’s Day out one Brotherhood activity before we are in Brunch. Please plan to join us on Sunday, May 12 at 10 A high gear preparing for others. While recognition am in the Social Hall for a delicious Brotherhood- of all Purim Carnival volunteers is shown elsewhere in catered brunch and musical entertainment by Beth El’s this Bulletin, special appreciation is extended to event Rock Hard Bagels. All women, and not just mothers, chairman Matt Mutterperl, volunteer coordinators will be the guests of Brotherhood and will receive a Greta Bolton and Donna Blum-Kemelor, and kitchen complimentary rose. (See related article on the front manager Fred Reiner for their leadership roles and or- page of this Bulletin.) RSVPs requested by May 6 to ganizational skills that once again made this annual Beth Ron Sturman, [email protected]. El “March Madness” a resounding success. Also in Brotherhood’s annual free end-of-year Religious March, Brotherhood provided $500 in financial support School Picnic is scheduled for June 9, the last day of from its catering profits for the Beth El-led community- Religious School classes. And on Friday night, June 14, wide Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT) effort. the Brotherhood annual meeting will take place prior to We once again thank Ron Sturman for organizing the Brotherhood Shabbat service, during which the 2018 the latest April 7 Brotherhood Bagels and Banter gather- Brotherhood Man of the Year Award will be presented ing, which featured Marc Dapas, our guest from Fair- to this year’s recipient, Roberto Mosse. Details on the lington United Methodist Church. Marc led a conversa- nominated Brotherhood Board for FY 2019-2021 and tion and learning session about his experiences serving the proposed FY 2019-2020 budget will appear in next aboard a nuclear-powered submarine. About 20 Beth El month’s Bulletin and will be available on-line at https:// men joined us for this relaxing morning of coffee and www.bethelhebrew.org/community/brotherhood. Mark camaraderie. Thank you to the other volunteers your calendars for both events. (Roberto Mosse, Barry Smith, Roger Smith, and Norm Starler) who helped put on this social event. John Jankowski Currently, Brotherhood is busily preparing for the Brotherhood President upcoming Ner Tamid dedication Shabbat dinner on May [email protected]

Readers of Beth El Culture Club UR LAST MEETING before summer will be on Annual Potluck Luncheon June 3, 2019 at 6:30 pm. O We will discuss Two Family House by Linda Thursday, May 23, at 12 Noon Cohen Loigman. This debut novel set in post-WWII Brooklyn is a multigenerational story of two sisters-in- T’S SPRING, and that means it’s time to celebrate a law who raise their families woven with secrets. year of interesting exhibits and camaraderie. And We will also have a book exchange for summer read- I how do we celebrate? With food, of course! And ing and begin to think about books for the fall. lively conversation! Whether you’ve participated every month, once in a Lynne Orens while, or just wish you had, join the fun of this annual [email protected] event at Meryl’s. Please rsvp by May 13 with a suggested dish you’d like to contribute so the buffet can be coordi- nated — [email protected]. As always, Culture Club activities are open to all adult Beth El members and their guests. Carpooling is encouraged, as parking is a bit tight.

Beth El Bulletin May 2019 Beth El Hebrew Congregation Page 9 WRJ News APPY MOTHERS DAY to all of our mothers Ross, Bronna Steiman, Gerrie Sturman, Linda Vogel, and indeed grandmothers, too! Whether your and Pamela Zitron. We also thank Simon Gershman H children are new or older, your love and dedica- for being our kitchen coordinator during the Seder so we tion bring joy and strength to the world. Mazal tov to all could enjoy ourselves. We were thrilled to have our who have new (grand)children. May they all grow from young women heading for Heller High (look for their strength to strength! fundraising efforts coming up in the near future) and the Mahj Mayhem returns! Be sure to bring your friends ladies of Guest House who helped with set-up, serving and 2019 Mah Jongg cards to Mahj Mayhem on Sunday, soup, and clean up. Everything was fabulous! May 19 from 2 to 5 pm for an afternoon of fun, socializ- Volunteers will be cooking and serving at Carpen- ing, nosh, and a bit of mayhem as we raise funds for the ter’s Shelter in Alexandria on Mondays, May 27 and youth of Beth El, including the young ladies who will June 24. We thank our dedicated volunteers who have attend Heller High in Israel next school year. cooked, served, and baked during the last four months: Join us at our WRJ Shabbat potluck dinner, raffle Esther Belenker, Kris Keydel, Sheryl Leeds, Inna drawing, board installation, and service on Friday, May Naygauz, Libby Starler, and Fran Vogel. If you are 31 at 6 pm. The entire congregation is invited to attend interested in helping, please contact Karen Aftergut at as we celebrate WRJ and honor our Woman of the Year, [email protected] . Pat Collins, and her many contributions to Beth El’s Todah rabbah to Rita DiTrani for faithfully coordi- WRJ as well as the Mid Atlantic District over the past nating our WRJ book club since its inception more than few years. Please watch the mail for your raffle ticket 15 years ago! The final WRJ book club meeting of the fundraiser packet. Feel free to sell to friends. Additional year will be held on June 11 at 11 am where we will dis- raffle tickets are available in the office. cuss Frank by Barney Frank. We will also select our Our WRJ triennial Women’s Seder was a ruach- books for next year. If you are interested in joining the filled evening as we celebrated Passover early from a book club and/or have book suggestions for next year’s woman’s point of view. Special thanks to Cantor Kauf- selection, please contact Rita DiTrani at man who engaged us all through song and the inclusion [email protected] . WRJ membership is required. of many of our close to 90 sisters who attended. Todah Our final meetings of the year are Wednesdays, May rabbah to Jo Ann Allen and Debbie Spitzer for coordi- 1 and June 5 at 6:30 pm. nating the details leading up to and during the dinner portion of this event and to the women who assisted with Happy Mothers Day, the preparations of the meal as well as the beauty of the Jeanette Astrow event: Elissa Baum, Pat Collins, Dawn Kaye, Annette BE-WRJ President Kilian, Marsha Kohn, Anne Levy, Angela Lutzker, Lisa Miller, Susie Mosse, Barbara Rosenfeld, Shelli

Page 10 Playground Fundraising Update HANK YOU to everyone who has generously supported the new Rabbi Isserow Outdoor Play Space! If you have been to Beth El recently, you might have seen on display the playground layout and our “forest of T donors” in recognition of everyone who has donated since our fundraising campaign launched a few weeks ago. The response has been incredible! To date we have raised $137,923 out of our total budget of $200,000. We only need to raise another $62,077 to begin construction! The sooner we raise these dollars, the sooner we can begin. A handful of items are still available for sponsorships. • Sand Play Area — $8,000 • Texture Trail — $11,000 • Mud Kitchen — $12,000 We also need to cover the cost of fencing to keep the playground and our children secure, as well as water and elec- tric connections which will also make our Chapel in the Woods an area we can enjoy for services and evening events. If you haven’t already made a donation, please help today. No amount is too small! Help us to honor Rabbi Isserow, to thank him for his steadfast support of our preschool and to provide our preschool and Beth El families with an outdoor play space that is reflective of our commitment to our children and Beth El community. Please send donations to the Beth El office with the notation “playground fund” or donate online at: https://www.bethelhebrew.org/support-us and select the “playground fund” for your donation. Any questions, please contact Harmony Knutson at 202-256-4133 or [email protected] or Dina Backer at 703-537-3084 or [email protected].

Beth El Bulletin May 2019 Beth El Hebrew Congregation Page 11 Member News Mazel Tov to: Condolences to: Faith Klein, Joel Geisner, James Freund, and Millicent Diane Sollod on the death of her sister, Rita Schanker Rosenberg on their special birthdays Cohen Sandi Goldman who will be an Artist-in-Residence at Mark Weiner on the death of his grandmother, Estelle the new INOVA Schar Cancer Institute in Fairfax, VA, Epstein opening in May Winnie Shapiro on the death of husband, Paul Shapiro Amy Law, daughter of Julienne Bramesco and Glenn Law, on her graduation from UVA Medical School and her marriage to Heath Sharp; Amy will be starting her pediatric residency at Children’s National Medical Cen- ter in Washington, DC Meryl and Joel Goldhammer on the birth of granddaugh- ter Emma Bella Kreinbihl

May the memory of the dear departed always be a blessing and inspiration to all who knew and loved them.

May our synagogue community bring comfort to those who mourn them. May the families know of no more sorrow. Amen. B’nei Mitzvah Michael Katz Jonah Hilbert Charles Sokolove May 4, 2019 May 10, 2019 May 18, 2019

Michael Saul Katz is a 7th grade Jonah Hilbert is a 7th grade honor Charles Hildreth Sokolove is a 7th AAP Student at Twain Middle student at Frost Middle School in grader at Jefferson-Houston Middle School in Alexandria. He has been a Fairfax. His favorite subjects are his- School. He is a devoted baseball shofar blower for Beth El’s Junior tory, science, and Spanish. player, who loves the Red Sox and Congregation for several years and Jonah is a Boy Scout and enjoys the Nats. For his mitzvah project, he plays trumpet in Twain’s Concert camping with his friends. In his free volunteers with Alexandria’s Miracle Band. time he likes to swim and practice League, an organization that provides Michael also enjoys flag football, rifle shooting. Jonah loves to take his opportunities for children with disa- video games, reading, and playing dogs Bunnie and Milo for long bilities to play baseball. with his pets and younger brother. In walks. He is a member of the Kol Charlie is involved in school ac- summer, he loves going to the URJ Nova Youth Choir where he sings tivities, including sports editor of the Six Points Sci-Tech camp in Boston, and performs in the annual Purim newspaper, clarinet player in the MA. Shpiel. band, and treasurer of the student Michael’s ideal career is to be- Jonah is volunteering with the government. His interest in history come a lawyer and ultimately serve Unified Special Olympic team at inspired him to become a Junior Do- on the US Supreme Court. He con- school for his mitzvah project. cent at Gadsby’s Tavern. Charlie re- stantly practices his negotiation skills mains undecided about future career with his teachers, parents and young- plans, after ruling out beet farmer and er brother. paper salesman. Charlie wants to thank his Beth El teachers, tutor, and clergy for their support.

Page 12 ~ May 2019 ~ ~ NiSsan/Iyyar 5779 ~ Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Torah Portions 1 Save the Rhino Day 2 Holocaust Remembrance Day-Yom HaShoah 3 International Tuba DayHug Your Cat Day 4 Star Wars Day Acharei Mot 5:3-6:10p Religious School Canteen Noon-1p City of Alexandria Yom ??? Community Shabbat Dinner 9-10:30a Torah Study 6:15-8p Religious School HaShoah Commemoration 6:30-7:30p Shabbat Social Hour 10:30a Shabbat Morning Service and Leviticus 16:1-18:30 Ezekiel 22:1-19 6:30-8p WRJ Meeting 12:30-1:30p Yom HaShoah Program 7:30p Ner Tamid Dedication and Erev Bar Mitzvah of Michael Katz at the J Shabbat Service 11a-Noon Tot Shabbat 6:30-7:30p Beth El House Meeting 12:30-2:30p Lunch and Learn with 6:30-8:30p WRJ Mah Jongg and Mah Artist Claude Reidel Jongg Class 7-11p Bridge Candle lighting 7:44p Havdalah 8:53p 5 Cinco De Mayo/Start of Ramadan 6 National Nurses Day 7 National Teachers Day 8 Yom HaZikaron (Israel)/VE Day 9 Yom HaAtzma'ut (Israel) 10 Military Spouses Day/National Frog 11 National Windmill Day/Mother Ocean Day Kedoshim ALIVE! Walkathon 1-3p WRJ Mah Jongg 10:30a-Noon JCCNV Event XXX 6:30-8:30p WRJ Mah Jongg and Mah Jumping Day 9-10:30a Torah Study 10a-Noon Adult Hebrew Classes 6:30-9p Executive Committee Meeting 5:3-6:10p Religious School Canteen Jongg Class 6:30-7:30p Shabbat Social Hour 10:30a Shabbat Morning Service and Leviticus 19:1-20:27 Amos 9:7-15 10a-Noon WRJ Mah Jongg 7-8:30p Genius of the Rabbis with 6:15-8p Religious School 7-11p Bridge 7:30p Erev Shabbat Service Bar Mitzvah of Jonah Hilbert 10a-Noon Religious School Rabbi Folb 7-8p Acquire a Teacher, Make a

10a-Noon Chapel in the Woods Workday Friend: Study with Rabbi David

Spinrad 10:30a-Noon Life After Loss Group 1-4p Bridge Candle lighting 7:51p Havdalah 9:00p 12 Mother's Day 13 Accountants Day/Hummus Day 14 International Chicken Dance Day 15 Police Officers Memorial Day 16 Wear Purple for Peace Day/Mimosa Day 17 National Bike to Work Day 18 Armed Forces Day/National Museum Day Emor 10a-Noon Adult Hebrew Classes 1-3p WRJ Mah Jongg 10:30a-Noon JCCNV Event XXX 6:30-8:30p WRJ Mah Jongg and Mah Culture Club Annual Potluck Luncheon 9-10:30a Torah Study 10a-Noon WRJ Mah Jongg 5:3-6:10p Religious School Canteen Jongg Class 6:30-7:30p Shabbat Social Hour 10:30a Shabbat Morning Service and Leviticus 21:1-24:23 Ezekiel 44:15-31 10a-Noon Religious School 6:15-8p Religious School 7-11p Bridge 7:30p Erev Shabbat Service Bar Mitzvah of Charles Sokolove 10a-Noon Mother’s Day Brunch by 7:30-8:30p Interfaith Class 11a-Noon Tot Shabbat Brotherhood

1-4p Bridge

Havdalah 9:06p Candle lighting 7:57p 19 National Rescue Dog Day 20 International Clinical Trials Day 21 National Waiters and Waitresses Day 22 Erev Lag B’omer/World Day for Cultural 23 Lag B'Omer 24 National Polka Day/International Tiara Day 25 National and International Missing Behar 10a-Noon Adult Hebrew Classes 1-3p WRJ Mah Jongg Diversity Culture Club Annual Pot Luck 6:30-7:30p Shabbat Social Hour Children’s Day 10a-Noon WRJ Mah Jongg 7-8:30p Genius of the Rabbis with 10:30a-Noon JCCNV Event XXX Luncheon 7:30p Erev Shabbat Service and 9-10:30a Torah Study Leviticus 25:1-26:2 Jeremiah 32:6-27 10a-Noon Religious School Rabbi Folb 5:3-6:10p Religious School Canteen 6:30-8:30p WRJ Mah Jongg and Mah Presentation of Marc Ross Award 10:30a Shabbat Morning Service Jongg Class 10a-Noon Brotherhood Board Meeting 7-9p Board of Directors Meeting 6:15-8p Religious School 6-10p Parents Night Out 7-11p Bridge 1-2p Caring Community Committee Ethical 7-8p Acquire a Teacher, Make a

Will Workshop Friend: Study with Rabbi David Spinrad 1-4p Bridge 2-5p Mahj Mayhem Candle lighting 8:03p Havdalah 9:12p 26 Sally Ride Day/National Chardonnay Day 27 Memorial Day 28 National Hamburger Day 29 International Day of United Nations 30 World Otter Day/National Creativity Day 31 World No Tobacco Day Some months the special days are about food, some Peacekeepers NO RELIGIOUS SCHOOL OFFICE CLOSED 1-3p WRJ Mah Jongg 6:30-8:30p WRJ Mah Jongg 6-7:30 WRJ Shabbat Dinner months about animals, some months about diseases to 5:3-6:10p Religious School Canteen 2-5:30 Carpenter’s Shelter 7-11p Bridge 6:30-7:30p Shabbat Social Hour raise awareness of. May is full of people days: Food Prep 6:15-8p Religious School 7:30p Erev Shabbat Service/WRJ Shabbat accountants, teachers, nurses, police officer, military spouses, UN peacekeepers, mothers, and more. Be nice to everyone Candle lighting 8:09p this May!

Beth El Bulletin May 2019 Beth El Hebrew Congregation Page 13 ~ May 2019 ~ ~ NiSsan/Iyyar 5779 ~ Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Torah Portions 1 Save the Rhino Day 2 Holocaust Remembrance Day-Yom HaShoah 3 International Tuba DayHug Your Cat Day 4 Star Wars Day Acharei Mot 5:3-6:10p Religious School Canteen Noon-1p City of Alexandria Yom ??? Community Shabbat Dinner 9-10:30a Torah Study 6:15-8p Religious School HaShoah Commemoration 6:30-7:30p Shabbat Social Hour 10:30a Shabbat Morning Service and Leviticus 16:1-18:30 Ezekiel 22:1-19 6:30-8p WRJ Meeting 12:30-1:30p Yom HaShoah Program 7:30p Ner Tamid Dedication and Erev Bar Mitzvah of Michael Katz at the J Shabbat Service 11a-Noon Tot Shabbat 6:30-7:30p Beth El House Meeting 12:30-2:30p Lunch and Learn with 6:30-8:30p WRJ Mah Jongg and Mah Artist Claude Reidel Jongg Class 7-11p Bridge Candle lighting 7:44p Havdalah 8:53p 5 Cinco De Mayo/Start of Ramadan 6 National Nurses Day 7 National Teachers Day 8 Yom HaZikaron (Israel)/VE Day 9 Yom HaAtzma'ut (Israel) 10 Military Spouses Day/National Frog 11 National Windmill Day/Mother Ocean Day Kedoshim ALIVE! Walkathon 1-3p WRJ Mah Jongg 10:30a-Noon JCCNV Event XXX 6:30-8:30p WRJ Mah Jongg and Mah Jumping Day 9-10:30a Torah Study 10a-Noon Adult Hebrew Classes 6:30-9p Executive Committee Meeting 5:3-6:10p Religious School Canteen Jongg Class 6:30-7:30p Shabbat Social Hour 10:30a Shabbat Morning Service and Leviticus 19:1-20:27 Amos 9:7-15 10a-Noon WRJ Mah Jongg 7-8:30p Genius of the Rabbis with 6:15-8p Religious School 7-11p Bridge 7:30p Erev Shabbat Service Bar Mitzvah of Jonah Hilbert 10a-Noon Religious School Rabbi Folb 7-8p Acquire a Teacher, Make a

10a-Noon Chapel in the Woods Workday Friend: Study with Rabbi David

1-4p Bridge

Page 14 Join Beth El Hebrew Women of Reform Judaism for

Mahj Mayhem

Not a tournament, and mayhem will be AT the table, not moving from table to table! Come with your own table group or we will find you a group – if you have your own group, please send the list of people in it with your registration!

Sunday, May 19, 2019 from 2pm-5pm Beth El Hebrew Congregation 3830 Seminary Road, Alexandria, VA 22304

A fundraiser for Beth El Youth

Loads of fun, friends, & food Door prizes and raffle tickets for other prizes! $20 Pre-Registration by May 14 $25 at the door ($18 is tax-deductible)

Make checks payable to BE-WRJ and send to WRJ, Beth El Hebrew Congregation at the address above by May 14.

*** Bring your 2019 Mah Jongg card ***

For questions, contact Jo Ann Allen at [email protected]

Beth El Bulletin May 2019 Beth El Hebrew Congregation Page 15 Thank You, Purim Carnival Volunteers

The congregation, Brotherhood, and organizers of the Purim carnival want to thank the many volunteers that made the day so much fun for children and adults alike. Sincere apologies if you volunteered, but your name is missing from this list.

Yanni Abbou Spruce Fraser Ben Lowsen Jeffrey Sachs Molly Backer Simon Gershman Susan Meisner William Salamon Donna Blum-Kemelor Bobbie Gershman Gil Martinez Danielle Sassin Eliza Block Jackson Gravelle Mia Mervis Clair Sassin Todd Bolick Traci Gravelle Roberto Mosse Sally Schneider Joslyn Bolton Harrison Hannan Matthew Mutterperl Glenn Siegal Gil Bolton Max Heltzer Joshua Mutterperl Sara Simensky Greta Bolton Sarah Jacobson Ethan Mutterperl Barry Smith Wesley Bolton Becca Jacobson Ben Mutterperl Roger Smith Arlyn Childs Rachel Jacobson Emily Mutterperl Charlie Sokolove Helene Cohen Elissa Janis John Newmark Ben Spindler Mike Coughlin Gordon Janis Mayah Pedigo Jessica Spindler Alix Coughlin John Jankowski Casey Pick Norm Starler Quinn Coughlin Amanda Johnson Josephine Phillips Ron Sturman Paige Dillinger Stacey Johnson Fred Reiner Peter Suchman Harper Ellis Dina Katz Amber Reiter Sam Suchman Paige Ellis Jon Katz Andy Rhodes Shoshanna Tanner Jesse Ellis Michael Katz Alan Rubinstein Michael Tanner Mia Escandarani Annie Lebow David Rubinstein Evan Tanner Xander Fink Ariel Lebow Virginia Ruiz Rachel Turner Jeremy Flachs Dolly Lebow Donna Sachs Hannah Warschaw Michael Folkman Jerry Liess Faren Sachs Michael Weinraub

Page 16

Beth El Teens Are Fundraising To Study in Israel in 2019-2020

During the 2019-2020 school year, five Beth El teens will be studying for a semester in Israel at the URJ’s Heller High School.

We are Alexis Colton, Aurora Mercer, Kate Schneider, Dahlia Spinrad, and Samara Tanner.

The experience will give us the opportunity to:

• Live, learn, and travel throughout Israel. • Learn about Jewish history first-hand where it took place. • Reinforce our Jewish faith, community, and values. • Make new Jewish friends from throughout North America. • Mature as Jews and as young adults. • Earn college credit for our Hebrew and Judaic Studies classes.

The cost of the program is approximately $20,000 per student, which includes room and board, study, airfare, 20 field trips throughout Israel, and a 12-day trip to Poland. Between now and January 2020, we will be fundraising together to raise a total of $10,000 that will be split evenly between the five of us. In creating this fundraising effort, our goal is also to build a sustainable fundraising program that will allow future Beth El teens to participate in Heller High in future years.

Some of the fundraising activities we are planning include:

• Parents’ Night or Afternoon Out Babysitting Events • Car wash on the last day of religious school – June 9 • Staffing the Bagel Bar during Religious School on Sundays • A 50-50 raffle during Maj Mayhem – May 19 • Helping at WRJ and Brotherhood events • Supporting Beth El community dinners • Offering individual babysitting to Beth El families

We appreciate your support of our fundraising efforts. For more information, please contact us at:

[email protected]

Beth El Bulletin May 2019 Beth El Hebrew Congregation Page 17 Chapel in the Woods After Invasive Removal, Re-planting Yields Results in the Chapel in the Woods

HREE YEARS AGO, congregants began re-planting ground previously covered with English ivy and other invasive species. This spring, finally, those efforts begin to bear fruit as Virginia natives peek through the earth. T Among the many early arrivals are a Virginia bluebell and wild ginger—both under the bridge. And, the species congregants planted last fall in the new Audubon garden are emerging, so please make a visit to discover these treasures. Come help control invasive species such as English ivy and propagate and maintain our new trees, shrubs, and wild- flowers by attending the following workdays in the Chapel in the Woods: May 5, June 2, July 7 and Aug. 11. Each will be held from 10 to noon, and followed by a light lunch. Please bring work gloves and trowels if you have them; other equipment will be provided. For more information, contact Nancy or Stuart Davis, 703-671-5906.

In an amazing display of teamwork on April 6, 28 volunteers, including WRJ members and Religious School seventh- graders, planted a whopping 200 Christmas and lady ferns and wood reed grass in the upper portion of the Chapel in the Woods West ravine — in about one hour. The project was part of a Soil and Water Conservation grant to control erosion and reduce runoff. Then, the volunteers moved on to weed, mulch, and plant bee balm, cardinal flowers, and golden ragwort in one of the test gardens.

Who ARE These Guys, Anyway?

Meet the Rock Hard Bagels, Beth El’s own oldies rock band. First introduced by former Cantor Sharon Steinberg, they have been playing together for well over a decade.

Band composition varies with each gig. This one, left to right, is Phil Saunders, Bob Holden, David Weinraub, David Itkin, Fred Reiner, and Paul Edelstein.

Fred grew up in Beth El. He’s a retired piano tuner who plays bass and percussion He goes by “Bialy.”

Paul is an engineer/lawyer who works in defense. He plays guitar and sings. He also collects vintage British sports cars, one of which is now a hedge in his back yard. David Weinraub plays bass and keyboards and has been David Itkin is an attorney who spends most of his time help- known to act as musical director for a number of local the- ing people. Really. He plays guitar and sings and seems to atrical productions. spend an inordinate amount of time putting outrageous puns online. Bob Holden plays guitar and sings with anyone who will put up with him. Bob Shaver plays guitar and sings. In his professional life, he can tell you how to exercise and eat and generally live You can hear them both at the Mother’s Day Brunch and at better. The rest of his time is taken up by Brotherhood and Barry Smith’s send-off. his family. He’s the tall Bob.

Page 18 iPad Workshops on May 1 in Alexandria Intro at 1 pm and 5 pm Beyond the Basics at 3 pm and 7 pm Other NoVa sites, other dates More info at aarp.cvent.com/teknova

Intro — texting, taking photos, learning about apps, and browsing the web safely and securely

Beyond the Basics — map and navigation apps, voice dictation, editing and sharing photos, and tips for protecting your device.

JUDAISM’S TEN BEST IDEAS: A DAY OF LEARNING: A NEW BRIEF GUIDE FOR SEEKERS HASIDISM FOR THE 21ST CENTURY

Sunday, May 26 | 7:30 — 9 pm Monday, May 27 | 9:30 am — 3:30 pm

Temple Rodef Shalom Kehilat Shalom

2100 Westmoreland Street, Falls Church, VA 9915 Apple Ridge Road, Gaithersburg, MD 22043 20866

In an age of fluid identity, many people are hon- Join us for an in-depth look into modern day estly asking the question “Why be Jewish?” What Hasidism. Through lectures and test study, we in this religious and ethnic legacy is worth pre- will learn about traditional Hasidism, and how it serving? Does Judaism have something unique to is being interpreted and practiced today. Topics offer a contemporary seeker free to choose a way will include: of life and a system of values? Rabbi Arthur Green, a leading scholar, will share his answers • What is Hasidism, and what do we mean by with warmth, humor, person and rabbinic stories a “New” Hasidism? and down-to-earth explanations. Like his 2014 • Classic Hasidic text through 21st century eyes book of the same title, this lecture will provide • Rabbi Green’s writings: “Neo-Hasidic Cre- an enticing look into timeless Jewish wisdom! do” and “How I Practice Judaism, and Why”

Beth El Bulletin May 2019 Beth El Hebrew Congregation Page 19 Beth El/JCCNV Events

Yom Ha’Shoah Program at the J Author Event Women’s Fashion Film: GI Jews – Jewish Americans The Eddie Cantor Story: A Jewish in the 20th Century in World War II Life in Performance and Politics

Thursday, May 2, noon–2:30 pm Wednesday, May 8, 10:30 am–noon Wednesday, May 15, 10:30 am–noon

2018 | 90 min. | Documentary Presented by David Weinstein, author Presented by Jennifer Biehl, Arlington and historian County’s CostumeLab Manager Noon: Lunch (bring dairy or parve/ meatless) David Weinstein will discuss Eddie Can- Women’s fashion of the 20th century 12:30pm: Program tor and the history of American Jewish was influenced by politics, social move- popular entertainment. His book docu- ments, music, and more. From platform Location: JCCNV, 8900 Little River ments Cantor’s significance as a per- shoes to saddle oxfords, bell bottoms, Turnpike, Fairfax former, philanthropist, and activist. This and pill box hats, fashion trends from is the first scholarly biography of Eddie the last century have created the fabric Cantor (1892–1964) who starred in thea- of our culture. Join Jennifer to learn All Beth El/JCCNV events are $5 for ter, film, radio, and television. The book about the history behind these clothes. all participants unless noted otherwise. highlights Cantor’s influence on Ameri- All events are on Wednesdays at 10:30 can Jewish social and political history am at BEHC unless noted otherwise. through his celebrity activism, including A Special Concert Celebrating Coffee, tea, and dessert will be his courageous campaign against Nazism CommUNITY provided. during the 1930s. The Eddie Cantor Sto- To RSVP or get more information for ry also explores Cantor’s influence on all Beth El/JCCNV events, please con- popular entertainment over nearly forty Wednesday, May 22, 10:30 am–11 am, tact [email protected], years, from the late 1910s through the 703-537-3062 early 1950s. David’s multi-media presen- 10:30 am Bagels; 11am–noon, Concert tation features many rare photos, songs, and film clips. David will have books Presenters: Cantor Jason Kaufman, available for sale and signing after the Beth El Hebrew Congregation, with program. pianist Erik Schnobrick

We are very excited to have Cantor Jason Kaufman and pianist Erik Schnobrick back with us this spring to present an uplifting concert of Jewish and spiritually -oriented music. They will present musical treasures from Jewish liturgy as well as music that expresses our Jewish commitment to commUNITY and social jus- tice. This will be an inspirational and moving program for all to enjoy! Come early, enjoy bagels and cream cheese, and schmooze a bit!

Spring cleaning?? It’s not too soon to start bringing in books for the 2020 Annual Giant Book Sale!

Page 20 The Congregation Gratefully Acknowledges the Following Donations

ARNOLD G. FINK LEARNING CENTER & LIBRARY FUND PRAYER BOOK FUND Donor In Memory of Donor In Appreciation of Stephen Harvith ...... Arthur Harvith Arlene Hewitt ...... Rabbi David Spinrad

BETH EL GENERAL FUND RABBI EMERITUS DISCRETIONARY FUND Donor Donor In Appreciation of Lucille Weener Judy & John Jankowski ...... Rabbi Isserow officiating at Donor In Appreciation of grandson’s baby naming The Board of Lady Managers ...... Use of Beth El Meeting Rooms Donor In Honor of Donor In Celebration of Janet Hlatky ...... Ann & Ernie Levy’s 50th anniversary Rhoda & Lenny Goldman ...... Joel Goldhammer’s special birthday Janet Hlatky ...... Birth of Judy & John Jankowski’s grandson Rhoda & Lenny Goldman ...... Ann & Ernie Levy’s 50th Anniversary Donor In Memory of RABBI’S GOOD DEED FUND Linda Johnson ...... Joseph M. Johnson Donor Lisa W. Gill Trust ...... Sonny Schick Ann & Len Wolf Joyce & Bernie Grand Donor In Honor of John J. Fitzgerald, Jr. Enid & Jerry Liess ...... Naomi Mercer’s retirement Carla Sherry ...... Daniel Sherry Annette & Norton Paley William Kramer ...... Shirley Fishbach Diane & Peter Suchman ...... Joel Goldhammer’s special birthday Alice Lowenthal ...... Froma & John Lippman Donor In Memory of Rosalie & Monroe Lesser ...... Asher, Israel, & Rachel Fried and PERMANENT ENDOWMENT FUND Jack Lesser Donor Michaele & Fred Silverberg ...... Sol Silverberg Faren Sachs Candace Goldblatt ...... Seymour Goldblatt Donor In Honor of Susan & Larry Solomon...... Arby & Jerry Solomon Ruth Perlstein ...... Joel Goldhammer’s special birthday Leona & Doug Johnson ...... Joseph Keil Ruth Perlstein ...... Ann & Ernie Levy’s 50th anniversary Debra Diener ...... Naomi & Sol Diener Donor In Celebration of Ellen & Stuart Feldstein ...... Joel Goldhammer’s special birthday RABBI ISSEROW PLAYGROUND FUND Susan & Roberto Mosse ...... Birth of Judy & John Jankowski’s grandson Donor In Honor of Donor In Memory of Audrey Liebross & Jay Jarvis ...... Rabbi Brett Isserow Arlene Hewitt ...... Sonny Schick Sara Deshong-Rojas & Omar Rojas Cadima ...... Naomi Mercer’s retirement Jane Kraft & Marvin Burstein Tovah Rom ...... Dina Backer Myrna & Paul Beck Donor In Memory of Barbara & Sam Rothman Carol & Stan Citron ...... Toby Kleinman Jane Kraft & Marvin Burstein ...... David Kraft Kris Keydel...... Hans Keydel Gerrie & Ron Sturman ...... Louis Sturman Roger Smith ...... Faith Smith Lucy Civitello & Howard Cohen ...... Theresa Civitello SOCIAL ACTION FUND Juliet & Michael Bluestein ...... Freda Bluestein Donor In Honor of JoAnn & Evan Allen ...... Naomi Mercer’s retirement JoAnn & Evan Allen ...... Birth of Pat Collin’s grandson HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL FUND JoAnn & Evan Allen ...... Birth of Judy & John Jankowski’s grandson Donor In Memory of Donor In Support of Janice & Steven Schlesinger ...... Robert Walitsky Annette Kilian...... ORT Rehydration Project Mary Snavely-Dixon JACK KLEIN MEMORIAL GENEALOGY LIBRARY Donor In Memory of Donor In Memory of Charlotte Strauss ...... Reva & Arthur Strauss Lotte Goldman ...... Rosa & George Wohl Stacy, Mark, Samantha, and Alexa Weiner ...... Charlotte Goldsmith Mitch Eisman and Family ...... Lynne & Stuart Eisman

Thank you for your generous donations. No donation is too small. All donations are acknowledged in The Bulletin two months following their receipt. Acknowledgements are mailed with a minimum of $18 per person per acknowledgment.

Beth El Bulletin May 2019 Beth El Hebrew Congregation Page 21 WRJ Women’s Seder

Before->

During ->

Guest House attended and assisted with serving and clearing

After ↑

Page 22 Attention Parents of Graduates! Remember to send your high school and college graduates’ information to [email protected] so we can include it in the member news section of The Bulletin.

JCCNV-Beth El Early Childhood Learning Center

Our ECLC offers a twelve-month program with part-time and full-time options for children who will be two, three, or four years old by September 30. Our full-time toddler program accepts students from 16 to 23 months old. The ECLC is licensed by the State of Virginia and is open to all members of the community. For Sale: For more information or to set up a tour, please contact Two plots in King David Memorial Garden, Director Dina Backer, at 703-537-3084, or at Section 6, Lot 141. [email protected]. Asking $3,800 each. Give your preschooler the gift Current price from King David is $5,100 each. of great learning experiences, new friends and lots of fun! Reply to Manny Seligmann at [email protected]

Beth El Bulletin May 2019 Beth El Hebrew Congregation Page 23

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The Bulletin Beth El Hebrew Congregation 3830 Seminary Road Alexandria, VA 22304 Member: Union for May 2019 Reform Judaism Volume 74 – No. 8 Founded in 1859 School: 703-370-6644 Office 703-370-9400 [email protected] www.bethelhebrew.org [email protected]

Rabbi David Spinrad Rabbi Emeritus Brett Isserow Cantor Jason R. Kaufman Executive Director Adam Wallach Director of Education Barry H. Smith Preschool Site Director Dina Backer

President Julienne Bramesco Executive Vice President Ilene Reiter Vice Presidents Alan Cohn David Weinraub Treasurer Clair Sassin Secretary Joanne Rhodes Brotherhood President John Jankowski WRJ President Jeanette Astrow Bulletin Editor Janet Hlatky

HOLD THE DATE Bender JCC: A Lifetime of Perspective — Art by Older Beth El Permanent Endowment Fund Annual Meeting, Adults, May 19 - Jun 17 June 9

Chapel in the Woods Workdays: June 2, July 7 and JCCNV: AARP Smart Driver Course for Older Adults, Aug. 11 June 11 or June 12

Evening with Friends Fundraiser Event: June 1-2 and Brotherhood Shabbat, June 14 June 8-9 Jewish Federation Annual Daytime Kennedy Center Concert Event — Mozart Forever, June 14 Zemer Chai Spring Concert, June 2

JCCNV: “Make & Take” Cooking Event — Pie Squared Beth El Congregation Annual Meeting, June 25 by Cathy Barrow, June 6 JCRC: Jewish Unity at a Crossroads, June 25

Confirmation Shabbat Service and Shabbat Service in Haberman Institute: A New Light: Torah through the Honor of Barry Smith, Retiring Director of Education, Eyes of the Sages, June 25 June 7 Martin Mintz Award Presentation, June 28

Last Day of Religious School and Congregation Picnic, Reel Israel DC: Redemption, at the Embassy of Israel, June 9 July 24