Announcements

Friday, November 15, 2019 | 17 Heshvan 5780
4:19pm Candle Lighting
4:30pm Mincha/Maariv

Saturday, November 16, 2019 | 18 Heshvan 5780    
Parshat Vayera
 Genesis 18:1-22:24  pp. 99-122
II Kings 4:1-37 pp.124-126

THE BAR MITZVAH OF ALEXANDER MECKLER 
9:00am Shabbat Morning Services (Main Sanctuary)
9:30am Shabbat Space (Board Room)
10:15am Pre-Service Oneg Shabbat (Board Room)
10:45am Family Kehillah Service (Goldberger Chapel)
10:45am Tot Shabbat (Levenson Chapel)
12:00 Kiddush Lunch 
12:30pm Daf Shevui (Library)
12:45pm Torah and Treats (Off-site) 
4:20pm Mincha/Maariv
5:​​18pm Havdalah 

The Kiddush is sponsored by Tanya Meyers and Mark Meckler in honor of the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Alexander Meckler. 

The following people are assisting on Shabbat:
Mark Seidenfeld and Ellen Barlis, Ushers; Avi Einzig, Gabbai;
Robert Patchen, Officer Chair; Debbie Young and Stephanie Roth, Greeters.

Thank you to our Torah and Haftarah Readers :
Neil Weiss, Cantor Aqua and  Alexander Meckler 

Thank you to the volunteer kiddush committee - the people who come before services to prepare kiddush, those who set up the kiddush during services, and those who stay after kiddush to clean up. Please contact Barbara Horowitz  if you would like to come one shabbat and help. 

MAZAL TOV, REFUAH SHLEIMAH, CONDOLENCES

Mazal tov to Tanya Meyers and Mark Meckler on the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Alexander Meckler.  

Mazal tov to Isaac and Janine Chinitz on the birth of their son, and also to Marvin and Shari Chinitz on the birth of their grandson. 

Mazal tov to Helene and Gary Liebstein on the engagement of their daughter Dana to Brian Roberts, son of Norman and Ivy Roberts.

​​​​​​​Those marking a simcha, observing the loss of a loved one, or who is sick or recovering from an illness have delighted/comforted that their lifecycle event has inspired generosity. If you would like to make a donation to Beth El in honor or in memory, please click here.

COMMUNITY SHABBAT - NOVEMBER 22 AND 23
LIBEINU | SHABBAT DINNER | NIGGUN HALEV
WITH RABINNIC FELLOW REBECCA WEINTRAUB

Please join us on Friday, November 22, at 6:30 p.m for Libeinu, Heart & Soul Shabbat, our special Friday night service filled with beautiful song, quiet prayer and inspiring words of Torah, followed by a delicious, catered Community Shabbat Dinner. Contact Jack Klebanow for information, jklebanow@bethelnr.org and to register for the dinner please click here . 

Join us again on Saturday, November 23 at 9:00 a.m for Niggun Halev, Melody of the Heart, and enjoy our special music-filled Shabbat morning service. 

MINYAN TIMES
Sunday 8:00 a.m Shacharit; 4:20 p.m. Mincha/Maariv 
Monday 6:55 a.m. Shacharit; 4:20 p.m. Mincha/Maariv 
Tuesday 7:00 a.m. Shacharit; 4:20 p.m. Mincha/Maariv 
Wednesday 7:00 a.m. Shacharit; 4:20 p.m Mincha/Maariv 
Thursday 6:55 a.m. Shacharit; 4:20 p.m. Mincha/Maariv
Friday 7:00 a.m. Shacharit; 4:20 p.m. Mincha/Maariv

D'var Torah: Maintaining an Open Tent
Rabbi Michael Gilboa, Conservative Yeshiva Alum & Founder of the Chicagoland Center for Conversion to Judaism

Genesis is a book of experiments. Humans trying out how to be human. God trying out how to be our God. And often the experiments don't go particularly well. Three times--in the Garden of Eden, during the generation of the Flood, and at the Tower of Babel--the entire human race turned away from God, and each time God responded by bringing us back on course.

In the final episode of collective human rebellion, at the Tower of Babel, God simultaneously dealt with the immediate problem and changed our fundamental circumstances. By creating languages, cultures, and nations God made it impossible for the entire human race to turn away from God. From then until now there has always been more than one way to be a human. Instead of charting one course, the human race would simultaneously try many approaches, hopefully to learn from each other's mistakes and to steer toward the best of our humanity. One of the inevitable byproducts of this multifaceted approach, however, is chauvinism and superiority. Probably from the first day, a small group with a shared language gathered beneath the ruins of the Tower, some people have limited their circle of concern to those most like them, using our differences to disqualify others of their basic humanity.

This week's Torah portion, Parashat Vayera, is a study of the contrasts that quickly emerged from this new multicultural reality. According to our tradition, Avraham was 48 at the Tower of Babel's doom, and he was 99 when the events of the parashah took place. In little more than 50 years we see the emergence of two diametrically opposed ways of being human.
Sodom and Gomorrah, though extreme, ought to sound familiar to us. After all, we should love our families. We ought to care most about our neighbors. We should be more concerned with our own city than with people halfway around the world. And yet, this exclusion that is so natural to us, that comes from a place of love for those around us, is condemned by God. In the most striking terms God told Avraham and us that although there will be more than one right answer to the question of being human, that doesn't mean there won't be any wrong answers. There is a limit to our experimentation, and Sodom and Gomorrah surpassed that limit when identity and allegiance transformed into callous and cruel exclusion. In the name of those they loved, the people of Sodom and Gomorrah denied the humanity of the outsider, and a mere half-century of this inhumanity was enough for God to shut down the experiment in its entirety.

Avraham and his emerging tribe, on the other hand, were marked by radical inclusion. Everyone was welcome in Avraham and Sarah's tent. Everyone was invited to the table. There was no such thing as a foreigner. Avraham was so dedicated to the power of welcoming that he sat at the entrance of his tent waiting to greet passersby even as he was recovering from his circumcision. Avraham was fierce in his own convictions, to the point of washing idolaters' feet before they might bring the dust they had worshipped into his home. At the same time, he welcomed them wholeheartedly, and through his radical welcoming Avraham furthered his mission of telling the world about God, inviting strangers to learn about their creator over a meal, and transforming outsiders into insiders through the common experience of God's love.

Avraham's was, and still is, an audacious experiment that could only come from faith in a single God who transcends all tribes and nationalities. It is not easy to keep the tent open, especially as so many of us live in majority cultures trying their own Sodom-like experiments, but our faith in radical welcoming is ultimately a faith in the God of Genesis: a God who cares about all people, loves all nations, and believes in our shared sacred human destiny.

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BESC FEATURED ANNOUNCEMENTS
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CASINO NIGHT Saturday, November 16, 7:30pm. Please join us for poker, craps, roulette and blackjack, and a fun evening with friends. Enjoy open bar, sushi, raffles, online auction, snacks, dairy desserts and a DJ. RSVP for reduced price of $36/person at bethelnr.org/casinonight or walk in price is $45. 

SMART - SENIOR MATURE ADULTS RETIRED TOGETHER SOLVING THE MEDICARE PUZZLE Tuesday, November 19 at 10am for Coffee, and then 10:30am to hear expert Medicare plan adviser Robert Remin explains how to make the most appropriate Medicare choice for you or your family's situation. This presentation is for those turning 65 soon, already in the Medicare-eligible market, and the adult children of either making or assisting with the decision for their parents. RSVP to Julie Rockowitz, jrockowitz@bethelnr.org, 914.235.2700 x256.

NEW ART EXHIBIT FOR THE BETH EL MUSEUM Thursday, November 21st,  7:00pm - 9:00pm. Artist Laura Lapin presents “Some Place Like Home” in our Kanner-Kurzon Museum now through the end of November. Please join us for an Artist's reception to view the artwork and enjoy some wine and cheese.  

SISTERHOOD BAGELS AND BOOKS Monday, November 25, 9:30am. Please join us for bagels, coffee and discussion of We Were The Lucky Ones, by  Georgia Hunter. Questions? Contact Arlene Salman at aesalman@aol.com or 914-235-2485.

COLLEGE AGE COMMITTEE Wednesday, December 4 at 7:00pm. Please join us for packing of early Hanukkah and finals treats at Beth El. Questions? Contact Debbie Ackerman: acker5family@gmail.com or Elissa Glickman: ejglickman1@verizon.net

MEN'S CLUB BLOOD DRIVE IN MEMORY OF MITCH KAPHAN Sunday, December 8 at 8:30am - 1:00pm. This year's drive is in memory of Mitch Kaphan, the long-time chair of the Blood Drive, who suffered from Blood Cancer and knew the importance of blood donations. Please support this and donate in Mitch's honor. Contact Alan Greenberg for information on asgreenberg2@gmail.com or visit bethelnr.org/blooddrive ​​​​​​​ to register. Walk-ins will be welcome. 

FAMILY ISRAEL TRIP INFORMATION MEETING 

Sunday, November 24, 9:30-10:30am Please join Rabbi Schuck and Assaf Fried from Daat Travel on at Beth El to learn more about the trip in a short presentation and a question and answer session.
Please RSVP your attendance at   www.bethelnr.org/event/info-session-israel-trip-with-rabbi-schuck-august-2020.html

FAMILY TRIP TO ISRAEL - AUGUST 25 - SEPTEMBER 4 2020                              
Led by Rabbi David Schuck, join us to explore the wonders of Jerusalem, museum tours, scavenger hunts, visiting memorials, archaeological digs, floating in the dead sea, learning from scholars and much more. 
To view the full itinerary, cost and information on registration for the trip, visit  https://daattravel.com/bethelNR2020

Mark your calendars for an off the beaten track trip to Israel on April 11-21 2021, also led by Rabbi Schuck. Further information to be released later in the year.

DEPARTMENT OF YOUTH AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT 
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BRING HOME CHALLAH FOR SHABBAT Would you like delicious, fresh challah each week? Beth El Religious School Parent Organization's popular fundraiser is back. Challah will be delivered to Beth El Synagogue Center for 24 more weeks. You can collect your challah at any point before Friday evening - if you have a child in the Religious School, the challah will be sent home with them!  Order today at  bethelnr.org/rschallah. Cost of Challah will be pro-rated.

RUACH & CHAVERIM SHABBAT SERVICE & DINNER Friday, November 15, 5:30-8:00 pm.  ALL families with a child in Grades K-5 are invited to join Rabbinic Fellow Jessica Fisher for a Shabbat service followed by Shabbat dinner. $36 per family. Register online at bethelnr.org/shabbatdinner.  Questions? Contact Stephanie: slederman@bethelnr.org. THIS EVENT IS TONIGHT! IF YOU ARE INTERESTED, PLEASE CONTACT STEPHANIE LEDERMAN ASAP!

TREATS AND TORAH Saturday, November 16, 1:15 pm at 68 Old Orchard Road. Beth El kids and their grown ups are invited to join Rabbinic Fellow Jessica Fisher for snacks, drinks, learning and hanging out after Kiddush lunch. Want to walk with us? We will be walking from Beth El at 1:00 pm.  Registration requested and walk-ins welcome: bethelnr.org/treatsandtorah.  Questions? Contact Jessica:  jessicafisher716@gmail.com.  The next one will be on Saturday, December 14!

PUERTO RICO SERVICE LEARNING TRIP INFO SESSION The Puerto Rico Service Learning Trip Info Session has unfortunately been canceled due to lack of interest. Please email Bekkah (rgold@bethelnr.org) if you are interested in a service learning trip like this in the future.  It is likely that we will offer a 9th-12th grade service learning trip next February in 2021.  

BE MITZVAH EXPERIENCE SESSION 2 FOR 6TH & 7TH GRADERS AND PARENTS Sunday, November 17, 10:15 am-12:00 pm.  All 6th graders and their families are invited to come to the second BE Mitzvah Experience Session.  Register here:  bethelnr.org/event/be-mitzvah-experience2.html. THIS EVENT IS OPEN TO 7TH GRADERS AND THEIR PARENTS AS WELL, AS IT IS A  NEW  SESSION FOR THE BE MITZVAH EXPERIENCE AND WILL BE BENEFICIAL FOR EVERYONE.

TEEN CHALLAH BAKE OPEN TO ALL 8TH-12TH GRADERS Thursday, November 21, 6:30-8:00 pm.  Make your own challah with your friends!  Pizza for dinner!  Register at bethelnr.org/teenchallahbake. FREE for Beth El USYers! 

EVERY FAMILY HAS A STORY... WHAT'S YOURS? Sunday, November 24, 10:30 am-12:00 pm.  Join us for this new, fun program open to ALL children in Grades K-5 & their parents. Siblings are invited too! Create your own storybook, bring photos, notes, heirlooms, etc. to craft and share your story with Rabbinic Fellow Jessica Fisher!  This program will be during Religious School hours,  All Religious School students and educators will be joining this program in addition to the larger youth and family community!  We encourage all parents to join this family program. Register by Friday, November 22:  bethelnr.org/familystory .  Questions? Contact Jessica: jessicafisher716@gmail.com.

SCREENAGERS NEXT CHAPTER UNCOVERING SKILLS FOR STRESS RESILIENCE Sunday, November 24, 12pm-2pm. Please join Beth El Synagogue Center's Mental Health Initiative, our Rabbis, and Bekkah Gold for a film screening geared towards 6th-12th graders, parents and caring adults. This documentary, focused on helping teens thrive in our screen and stress-filled world, will be followed by breakout sessions for adults and teens on supporting mental health wellness in teens led by Dr. Joselyn Fine, Psychologist and Mrs. Suzie Marder, Social Worker. Food will be served. Register today at  bethelnr.org/1124 .  

KADIMA SHABBAT DINNER Friday, December 6, 6:00-8:30 pm. 6th and 7th graders are invited to Beth El for Shabbat services and dinner! $10 before Dec. 4 & $15 after. Register at  bethelnr.org/kadimashabbat .

USY SHABBAT DINNER Friday, December 13, 6:30-9:00 pm at 68 Old Orchard Road.  8th-12th Graders are invited to join Rabbinic Fellow Jessica Fisher for Shabbat services and dinner. Fun times guaranteed!  Register online by Dec. 11: bethelnr.org/decshabbat. Free for Beth El teens before Dec. 11 - $20 after Dec. 11.

LET'S TAKE ACTION - FAMILY SOCIAL ACTION DAY Sunday, December 15, 11:00 am (Ruach-Grades K-2 & Families) & 12:00 pm Chaverim (Gr.3-5 & Families).  A family social action program for kids in Grades K-5 and their parents, caregivers, & siblings with Rabbinic Fellow Jessica Fisher!  This program does not impact our Religious School Schedule.  Contact Bekkah with any questions:  rgold@bethelnr.org and register at bethelnr.org/familyaction by December 13.

FOR PARENTS:
HAPPY HOUR Tuesday, November 19, 7:30 pm at North End Tavern (3rd Tuesday of every month). Join parents for a fun social night out!  No registration needed, just join us!
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WHEREVER WE STAND, WE STAND WITH ISRAEL

​​​​​​​Beth El's Israel Affairs Committee would like to share interesting and exciting news regarding the week's developments in business, culture, technology, agriculture, sports, and the environment in Israel. 

Israeli vet builds site for travelers with disabilities

Israel's Delek completes $2 bln purchase of Chevron's North Sea fields

LIMMUD, LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES & COMMUNITY EVENTS
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JEWISH LITERATURE FOCUS ON SHORT STORIES Remaining  Mondays are  11/18 through 12/2 at 10:00am-12:15pm. Please join us at Beth El for sessions devoted to short stories written by contemporary Israeli authors and then four sessions on Classic Yiddish short stories. Classes are led by Dr. Eleanor Ehrenkranz. To register visit www.bethelnr.org/stories.  

NEW ROCHELLE HADASSAH Tuesday, November 19 at Beth El. Please join us from 12 noon for a light lunch followed by meeting at 12:30pm. From 1:00pm, we are pleased to welcome Michael Kaplowitz, Westchester County Legislator as our program speaker. 

ISRAELI JUDAISM WITH RABBI MOLLY KARP Remaining class dates:  11/20,11/27,12/4,12/11,and 12/18 from 9:30 - 11:30am. The book Israeli Judaism, by Rosner and Fuchs, explores Israeli Jewishness.  Drop-in rate, $35, includes classes only. Please contact Rabbi Karp for location of class. For questions, contact rabbimollykarp@gmail.com.

CANTILLATION CLASS Wednesday, November 20 at 8:00pm. Taught by Shari Chinitz, and focusing on the trope for reading the two Megillot. Please register at  bethelnr.org/cantillation. For more information and venue as held off-site, contact Shari on 914-576-2768 or at sharichinitz@gmail.com. 

ULPAN HEBREW CLASSES Remaining class dates:11/20,12/4, 12/11, 12/18. Beginners 6:30-7:30pm; Intermediate 7:30-8:30pm; Advanced 8:30 - 9:30pm. Cost is $165 for all classes. Contact Miri at miriulpan@gmail.com or 914-602-503. ​​​​​​​

OPEN BEIT MIDRASH SCHOLAR VISIT Thursday, November 21, refreshments at 7:30pm and learning starts at 8:00pm. Please join us to hear Professor Robert A Harris of JTS speak on Medieval Jews and Christians Read Scripture. For more information, including opportunities to sponsor Open Beit Midrash, go to  bethelnr.org/openbeit

THE WISDOM OF OZ Autobiographical, literary and political writings in memory of Amos Oz. Thursdays 11/21,12/5 and 12/12. 9:30-10:30am taught by Dr Carol Diament and 10:45am-12 noon by Rabbi David Schuck. Cost to Beth El Members $65| Non members $100. For information on pre class reading and to register although walk ins also welcome, please visit bethelnr.org/oz 

THANKSGIVING DIVERSITY BREAKFAST Thursday, November 21st at 7:30-10:00am. Please join us at Westchester Community College Valhalla NY to hear Rabbi Segelman. Tickets are $18 if purchased by November 13 or $25 on the door. Please click here forinformation and tickets. 

THAT WAS THEN THIS IS NOW: A CONVERSATION FOR WOMEN ON HONOR COMMUNITY AND GENDER Saturday, November 23, after kiddush learning with Rebecca Wientraub, Rabbinic Fellow. How do we define community? How do we stay authentic to our tradition and simultaneously to ourselves? Where are women’s voices most visible and where are they missing? Join us for a text study and discussion on our role as women in building the Jewish community of our dreams.
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NIGHT OF JEWISH LEARNING AND CELEBRATION Saturday, November 23, 2019 at 7:15pm (Registration from 7:00pm) at Beth El. Join the Westchester Board of Rabbis together with Westchester Jewish Council for 2 sessions of classes led by 30 Westchester Rabbis, including our own Rabbi Schuck and Rabbi Sitkin. An additional bonus session with Guest Speaker, Rabbi Ethan Tucker. Cost is $20 if register by November 8, or $25 after this date. Cost includes a dairy dessert. Please register by clicking here or by sending your check to Westchester Jewish Council, 925 Westchester Avenue, Suite 200, White Plains, NY 10604. Contact Donna Bartell at donna@wjccouncil.org or on 914-328-7001 for information. 

INTERFAITH COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING SERVICE AND RECEPTION Thursday, November 28,  9:00-10:00am at Trinity Saint Pauls Episcopal Church, 311 Huguenot Street New Rochelle NY 10801 with guest speaker Rabbi Scott Weiner. All are welcome. 

JNF’s 7th ANNUAL WATER AND WINE RECEPTION December 5th, 7pm.at Westchester Reform Temple featuring Channel 12 News Anchor Michelle Divon, “My Experience at the Gaza Border: How JNF  Helps Families Heal”.  Tickets: $36, includes savory noshes, wine tasting, dessert & coffee, schmoozing and learning more about building a stronger state of Israel.  Sponsorships available. Online registration at: Water & Wine Registration. For info, contact Sharon Lewis, Sharon.lewis@jnf.org.

FLEETWOOD SYNAGOGUE COMEDY NIGHT December 7, 8:00 p.m. (Doors open at 7:30). Tickets are $35 by Nov. 30, $40 after Nov. 30 or at the door. Light dairy dessert and drinks will be served. Fleetwood Synagogue is at 11 Broad Street East, Mount Vernon. For tickets: http://fleetwoodsynagogue.org/rsvp

UJIA FEDERATION ANNUAL GIFT OF HANUKKAH CELEBRATION Sunday, December 8,  2-3:30 pm, at Kittay House in the Bronx. Please join us to play bingo, do crafts and share sufganyiot with more than 150 seniors.  $36 per family.  Event chairs are Jill Goldfein, Audi Abraham Schub and Anya Rackman Wiebke. RSVP at: glicks@ujafedny.org or 914.385.2120. 

ONGOING ITEMS

MISHEBERACH LIST Any name added to the Misheberach list will be automatically removed after one month. If someone needs it to remain for another month they must reach out again to one of the clergy. 

SHABBAT DISCUSSION GROUP Selected Shabbatot at 10:15 a.m. in the library with Jack Gruenberg. 

NEW TORAH READING RESOURCES We are happy to announce that the 2020 Torah and Haftarah sign up sheet is now available.  Please visit  www.bethelnr.org/torahsignup  and click on the 2020 tab at the top of the page to sign up. Photos of the entire Torah scroll that we use each week are now available online!  The photos will allow you to practice from the actual Torah that we use on Shabbat.  Visit  www.bethelnr.org/torahimages  to access this new resource. Links to both the sign up sheet and the Torah images can also be found on the Beth El homepage.  If you have any questions, please contact Alan Kellman (alan@twoals.com) or Cantor Aqua (uaqua@bethelnr.org).
 
HAFTARAH READERS WANTED An initiative is underway to encourage broader participation in Haftarah reading during Shabbat services. All interested can sign up online at www.bethelnr.org/torahsignup and contact Steven Cohen (scohen@kanekessler.com) or Cantor Aqua (uaqua@bethelnr.org) with any questions or requests for assistance. We will be reaching out to various groups over the coming weeks to encourage participation and special request is being made to those hesitant to read Haftarah because of their Hebrew or trope skills, as a program is being planned to provide support.

TALMUD DAF SHEVUI STUDY SESSION every Shabbat at 12:30 p.m. in the library. New participants welcome.

ISRAELI FOLK DANCE WITH CANTOR AQUA  Sundays, 10:00 a.m. Join us for great exercise and beautiful music. No experience required. For more information contact Cantor Aqua at uaqua@bethelnr.org.  

CHUG IVRI Join us on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month, 7:30pm, at Beth El. Join other Beth El members and practice speaking Hebrew!

YIDDISH VINKL Fridays 1:00pm at Beth El. Questions, please contact Bea Freedman on 914 337 8645
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CARD ROOM Play Canasta on Mondays at 12:45pm, and Mah Jongg on Tuesdays at 12:45pm. Contact Arlene Salman at aesalman@aol.com or 914-235-2485. Order your Mah Jongg Cards by January 1, 2020. Large print cards $9 and standard print cards $8. Please make checks payable to Beth El Sisterhood and for the attention of Arlene Salman. There are order forms available in the Beth El lobby. 

ZUMBA Next class is Sunday, November 17, from 9:30-10:30 a.m, $10 cash. Located in the Beth El Youth Lounge. It’s a fun exercise class, no prior experience needed! For information or to be added to the Zumba email list, please contact Carrie Fox at csfox99@gmail.com.  

GET SMART GET FIT! Wednesday Mornings,10:30am - 11:30am
Wear comfortable clothes and sneakers. This program is free of charge and no RSVP is needed. Donations are always appreciated. Put on your silver sneakers and join the fun! First session is November 20 - Golden Zumba with Laura, stay for Current Events Discussion at 11:30am with Shari Baum, MSW.

BEST DAYS EVER! BETH EL SUMMER CAMP Sign up now for summer 2020!
For children aged 2-9 years. Camp runs from Monday, June 29, 2020 - Thursday, August 20, 2020. For a tour or questions, contact Julie Rockowitz at jrockowitz@bethelnr.org or on 914.235.2700, x256.

* Please note, certain ongoing Beth El programs, initiatives, and items usually included in Shabbat Announcements, can be found at www.bethelnr.org/ongoing.

An archive of all of our "El" newsletter and Shabbat Announcements can be found at bethelnr.org/announcements.

Click here ​​​​​for our full calendar of programs.

Friday, November 8, 2019 | 10 Heshvan 5780
4:25pm Candle Lighting
4:40pm Mincha/Maariv

VETERANS SHABBAT
Saturday, November 9, 2019 | 11 Heshvan 5780    
Parshat Lech Lecha 
 Genesis 12:1 -17:27 pp. 69-93
Isaiah 40:27-41:16 pp. 95-98

We welcome all the veterans of our community to join us for an Aliyah to the Torah this Shabbat in honor of your service. We thank you for your bravery and dedication, your commitment to the greater good, and for your help safeguarding our freedom. 

THE BAT MITZVAH OF TALIA MAMAYSKY 
HOROWITZ/MAZURSKY BABY NAMING  
Chai House Visits 
9:00am Shabbat Morning Services (Main Sanctuary)
9:30am Shabbat Space (Board Room)
10:15am Pre-Service Oneg Shabbat (Board Room)
10:45am Family Kehillah Service (Goldberger Chapel)
10:45am Tot Shabbat (Levenson Chapel)
12:00 Kiddush Lunch 
12:30pm Daf Shevui (Library)
4:30pm Mincha/Maariv
5:24​​​​​​​pm Havdalah 

The Kiddush is sponsored by Harry and Kelly Mamaysky in honor of the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter, Talia Mamaysky, and also by Barbara and David Horowitz and Linda and Alan Mazursky in honor of the baby naming of their granddaughter.  

The following people are assisting on Shabbat:
Mark Silver and Lauren Freeman-Bosworth, Ushers; Robyn Yairi, Gabbai;
Russell Fayer, Officer Chair; Barbara Cohen and Ellen Hollander, Greeters.

Thank you to our Torah and Haftarah Readers :
Kyle Mayblum, Neil Weiss, Cantor Aqua, Robert Patchen and Talia Mamaysky, 

Thank you to the volunteer kiddush committee - the people who come before services to prepare kiddush, those who set up the kiddush during services, and those who stay after kiddush to clean up. Please contact Barbara Horowitz  if you would like to come one shabbat and help. 

MAZAL TOV, REFUAH SHLEIMAH, CONDOLENCES

Mazal tov to Harry and Kelly Mamaysky on the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter, Talia Mamaysky. 

Condolences to Rabbi David  (Tali Aldouby) Schuck on the loss of his father, Marvin Schuck.

Condolences to Janet (Isaiah) Seligman on the loss of her brother, Robert Kenlor. 

​​​​​​​Those marking a simcha, observing the loss of a loved one, or who is sick or recovering from an illness have delighted/comforted that their lifecycle event has inspired generosity. If you would like to make a donation to Beth El in honor or in memory, please click here.

CANCELLATION OF MALAVEH MALKAH 
We regret to inform you that the Melavah Malka for this Saturday night, November 9 has been canceled. We apologize for any inconvience.

MINYAN TIMES
Sunday 8:00 a.m Shacharit; 4:30 p.m. Mincha/Maariv 
Monday 6:55 a.m. Shacharit; 4:30 p.m. Mincha/Maariv 
Tuesday 7:00 a.m. Shacharit; 4:30 p.m. Mincha/Maariv 
Wednesday 7:00 a.m. Shacharit; 4:30 p.m Mincha/Maariv 
Thursday 6:55 a.m. Shacharit; 4:30 p.m. Mincha/Maariv
Friday 7:00 a.m. Shacharit; 4:30 p.m. Mincha/Maariv

D'var Torah: Faithful Shepherds
Rabbi Juan Mejia, Conservative Yeshiva Alum ('02-'04) & Education Director of Emanuel Synagogue in Oklahoma City, OK

In a common trope in the book of Bereshit of brothers going separate ways, our parashah depicts the household and flocks of Avram (Avraham before his name change) and Lot parting company. Lot settles in Kikar Hayarden, the fertile Jordan Valley rift around the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah before their destruction, while Avram chooses the rough hill country of Judah. The trigger for this division of Avram's camp is described as a "quarrel between the herdsmen of Avram's cattle and the herdsmen of Lot's cattle." (Bereshit 13:7) The previous verses describe the vastness of the combined flocks of Avram and Lot, so the simple reading of the text hints to the reasons for this quarrel being economic and even environmental. When nomadic herders amass too many animals, they run the risk of depleting an area of its resources, and the smart course of action is to divide the flocks into more manageable and sustainable portions. This explanation is espoused by Ramban and Seforno. 

Rashi, based on Bereshit Rabba (41:5), has a very different take on the underlying cause for this strife. "AND THERE WAS A QUARREL because Lot's shepherds were wicked men and grazed their cattle in other people's fields. Avram's shepherds rebuked them for this act of robbery, but they replied, 'The land has been given to Avram, and since he has no son as heir, Lot will be his heir: consequently this is not robbery.' Scripture, however, states: 'The Canaanite and the Perizzite abode then in the land,' so that Avram was not yet entitled to possession." According to Rashi the root of the fight between the herders was not economic, but rather religious and ethical. Lot and Avram's farmhands, seasoned underlings who have experienced firsthand Avram's delivery by God from Pharaoh's court, have very different approaches to God's promise to grant the Land of Canaan to their master. Lot's herders, very much like Lot himself later in the parashah, display a firm faith in God's promise, albeit myopic and grounded in selfish motivations: since God has promised the land to Avram, therefore they have DIVINE RIGHT to act upon this promise here and now. Avram's shepherds, on the other hand, exhibit a more pragmatic approach, but also one that takes into account the ethical values and the property of the current inhabitants of the land: despite God's promises, these do not override their present ethical obligations.

In the history of world religions, we find that Lot's herders have had plenty of students and imitators. We cannot count the examples of how, based on divine promises (real or fabricated) or prophecies (often conveniently interpreted), people have found justification for the suspension of their moral obligations, disguising them as faith and obedience. Alas! As with Lot's herders, this veneer of faith often thinly veils personal or national self-interest. 

The path of Avram's herdsmen is harder and historically rarer. They would rather set aside God's promises for a moment, even when it goes against their own gain and comfort, to address the difficult moral needs of the present time. This might seem, at first glance, as lack of faith. But as Avram will remind God's self in a couple of chapters: the God of Israel is not a merchant whose promises override God's nature, but rather God is, in essence, the God of Justice. Either God's promises will be fulfilled justly or these promises will be discovered, in time, to be indeed not Godly.
God fulfills God's promises in circuitous and strange ways which are beyond our intellectual grasp or our limited lifespans. Placing law and right before them (even in direct opposition to them) is not faithless. Indeed, it is a brave affirmation that God can deliver on God's pledges in a way that is not deficient or tainted, but rather perfect, or as we say in Hebrew: Emunah Shelemah.

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SISTERHOOD AND THE SYMPHONY OF WESTCHESTER Saturday, November 9 at 8:00pm. Cost is $40. Join the Sisterhood at Iona College for an evening of Beethoven Music with guest Israeli classical pianist, Alon Goldstein. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are available now. Contact Carole Graham 914-576-6617 or carolegraham@optonline.net.

SNEAK PEEK AT THE DEN @ BETH EL Sunday, November 10th 9:00am-12:30pm. The Wiener Lounge is turning into The Den, an experiment in synagogue community space. One room with more than one purpose: schmoozing, study, wireless work, meetings, a rest spot before or after meetings (or school drop-offs), and more.  You are invited to a sneak peek this Sunday, any time from 9:00 to noon.  You’ll have some coffee, hear some music, and enjoy some company.  And you can let us know how our progress is going. 

SISTERHOOD PAID-UP MEMBERSHIP DINNER Thursday, November 14, starting with cocktail hour at 6:00pm, followed by dinner at 7:00pm. RSVP to Lori Schwartz at oreomets13@yahoo.com / 633-6989.  

CASINO NIGHT Saturday, November 16, 7:30pm. Please join us for poker, craps, roulette and blackjack, and a fun evening with friends. Enjoy open bar, sushi, raffles, online auction, snacks, dairy desserts and a DJ. RSVP for reduced price of $36/person at bethelnr.org/casinonight or walk in price is $45. 

SMART - SENIOR MATURE ADULTS RETIRED TOGETHER SOLVING THE MEDICARE PUZZLE Tuesday, November 19 at 10am for Coffee, and then 10:30am to hear expert Medicare plan adviser Robert Remin explains how to make the most appropriate Medicare choice for you or your family's situation. This presentation is for those turning 65 soon, already in the Medicare-eligible market, and the adult children of either making or assisting with the decision for their parents. RSVP to Julie Rockowitz, jrockowitz@bethelnr.org, 914.235.2700 x256.

NEW ART EXHIBIT FOR THE BETH EL MUSEUM Thursday, November 21st,  7:00pm - 9:00pm. Artist Laura Lapin presents “Some Place Like Home” in our Kanner-Kurzon Museum now through the end of November. Please join us for an Artist's reception to view the artwork and enjoy some wine and cheese.  

SISTERHOOD BAGELS AND BOOKS Monday, November 25, 9:30am. Please join us for bagels, coffee and discussion of We Were The Lucky Ones, by  Georgia Hunter. Questions? Contact Arlene Salman at aesalman@aol.com or 914-235-2485.

COLLEGE AGE COMMITTEE Wednesday, December 4 at 7:00pm. Please join us for packing of early Hanukkah and finals treats at Beth El. Questions? please contact Debbie Ackerman: acker5family@gmail.com.

MEN'S CLUB BLOOD DRIVE IN MEMORY OF MITCH KAPHAN Sunday, December 8 at 8:30am - 1:00pm. This year's drive is in memory of Mitch Kaphan, the long-time chair of the Blood Drive, who suffered from Blood Cancer and knew the importance of blood donations. Please support this and donate in Mitch's honor. Contact Alan Greenberg for information on asgreenberg2@gmail.com or visit bethelnr.org/blooddrive ​​​​​​​ to register. Walk-ins will be welcome. 

SPECIAL SHABBAT - NOVEMBER 22-23
LIBEINU | COMMUNITY SHABBAT DINNER | NIGGUN HALEV

Please join us on Friday, November 22, at 6:30 p.m for Libeinu, Heart & Soul Shabbat, our special Friday night service filled with beautiful song, quiet prayer and inspiring words of Torah, followed by a delicious, catered Community Shabbat Dinner. Contact Jack Klebanow for information, jklebanow@bethelnr.org and to register for the dinner please click  here . 

Join us again on Saturday, November 23 at 9:00 a.m for Niggun Halev, Melody of the Heart, and enjoy our special music-filled Shabbat morning service. 

FAMILY ISRAEL TRIP INFORMATION MEETING 

Sunday, November 24, 9:30-10:30am Please join Rabbi Schuck and Assaf Fried from Daat Travel on at Beth El to learn more about the trip in a short presentation and a question and answer session.
Please RSVP your attendance at   www.bethelnr.org/event/info-session-israel-trip-with-rabbi-schuck-august-2020.html

FAMILY TRIP TO ISRAEL - AUGUST 25 - SEPTEMBER 4 2020                              
Led by Rabbi David Schuck, join us to explore the wonders of Jerusalem, museum tours, scavenger hunts, visiting memorials, archaeological digs, floating in the dead sea, learning from scholars and much more. 
To view the full itinerary, cost and information on registration for the trip, visit  https://daattravel.com/bethelNR2020

Mark your calendars for an off the beaten track trip to Israel on April 11-21 2021, also led by Rabbi Schuck. Further information to be released later in the year.

DEPARTMENT OF YOUTH AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT
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BRING HOME CHALLAH FOR SHABBAT Would you like delicious, fresh challah each week? Beth El Religious School Parent Organization's popular fundraiser is back. Challah will be delivered to Beth El Synagogue Center for 26 weeks. You can collect your challah at any point before Friday evening - if you have a child in the Religious School, the challah will be sent home with them!  Order today at  bethelnr.org/rschallah .

YC NO SCHOOL PARTY AT SKY ZONE! Monday, November 11 (Veteran's Day), 1:30-3:30 pm.  Open to ALL Youth, Grades K-12.  Snacks provided.  Community Service Hours Available.  Contact Bekkah (rgold@bethelnr.org) if interested.  $25 before Friday, November 8 & $30 at the door. Register at  bethelnr.org/noschoolparty.  Questions? Contact Stephanie: slederman@bethelnr.org.  If you register, please fill out the waiver found here:  https://www.skyzone.com/newrochelle .  We are looking for parent volunteers!  If you are available, please contact Stephanie.

RUACH & CHAVERIM SHABBAT SERVICE & DINNER Friday, November 15, 5:30-8:00 pm.  ALL families with a child in Grades K-5 are invited to join Rabbinic Fellow Jessica Fisher for a Shabbat service followed by Shabbat dinner. $36 per family. Register online by Wednesday, November 13: bethelnr.org/shabbatdinner.  Questions? Contact Stephanie: slederman@bethelnr.org.

TREATS AND TORAH Saturday, November 16, 1:15 pm at 68 Old Orchard Road. Beth El kids and their grown ups are invited to join Rabbinic Fellow Jessica Fisher for snacks, drinks, learning and hanging out after Kiddush lunch.   Want to walk with us? We will be walking from Beth El at 1:00 pm.  Registration requested and walk-ins welcome: bethelnr.org/treatsandtorah.  Questions? Contact Jessica: jessicafisher716@gmail.com.

PUERTO RICO SERVICE LEARNING TRIP INFO SESSION Sunday, November 17, 9:30-10:30 am.  Looking for a different kind of service learning trip?  Join Rabbi Zach Sitkin and Bekkah Gold on a one-of-a-kind trip to Puerto Rico!  Register for the info session to tell you about a different kind of community service trip open to all teens, 9th-12th grade.  Register for the info session here:  https://forms.gle/gHjQRjk8xPc6SSZf7.

BE MITZVAH EXPERIENCE SESSION 2 FOR 6TH GRADERS AND PARENTS Sunday, November 17, 10:15 am-12:00 pm.  All 6th graders and their families are invited to come to the second BE Mitzvah Experience Session.  Register here:   bethelnr.org/event/be-mitzvah-experience2.html

TEEN CHALLAH BAKE OPEN TO ALL 8TH-12TH GRADERS Thursday, November 21, 6:30-8:00 pm.  Make your own challah with your friends!  Pizza for dinner!  Register at  bethelnr.org/teenchallahbake .  FREE for Beth El USYers!

EVERY FAMILY HAS A STORY... WHAT'S YOURS? Sunday, November 24, 10:30 am-12:00 pm.  Join us for this new, fun program open to ALL children in Grades K-5 & their parents. Siblings are invited too! Create your own storybook, bring photos, notes, heirlooms, etc. to craft and share your story with Rabbinic Fellow Jessica Fisher!  Register by Friday, November 22:  bethelnr.org/familystory.   Questions? Contact Jessica: jessicafisher716@gmail.com.

FOR PARENTS:
CASINO NIGHT Saturday, November 16, 7:30-11:00 pm. Join us for a fun social night supporting the Nursery School!  Pre-Registration Cost: $36; Door Price: $45. No experience necessary, so come and enjoy Poker, Craps, Roulette, and Blackjack along with an open bar, raffles, an online auction, a DJ, sushi, snacks, and dairy dessert.  Pre-Register at  bethelnr.org/casinonight . 

HAPPY HOUR Tuesday, November 19, 7:30 pm at North End Tavern (3rd Tuesday of every month). Join parents for a fun social night out!  No registration needed, just join us!

SCREENAGERS NEXT CHAPTER UNCOVERING SKILLS FOR STRESS RESILIENCE Sunday, November 24, 12pm-2pm. Please join Beth El Synagogue Center's Mental Health Initiative, our rabbis, and Bekkah Gold for a film screening geared towards 6th-12th graders, parents and caring adults. This documentary, focused on helping teens thrive in our screen and stress-filled world, will be followed by breakout sessions for adults and teens on supporting mental health wellness in teens led by Dr. Joselyn Fine, Psychologist and Mrs. Suzie Marder, Social Worker.  Food will be served.  Register today at  bethelnr.org/1124 .     

WHEREVER WE STAND, WE STAND WITH ISRAEL

​​​​​​​Beth El's Israel Affairs Committee would like to share interesting and exciting news regarding the week's developments in business, culture, technology, agriculture, sports, and the environment in Israel. 

Karish natural gas field off Israel's shore found to be much bigger than thought

 With Eye to China, Israel Forms Panel to Vet Foreign Investments

LIMMUD, LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES & COMMUNITY EVENTS
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THE LEFFELL SCHOOL LOWER SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE Sunday, November 10 at 10:00am. While your 3 and 4 year old children are engaged in science, art, movement and music activities led by our teachers, you will learn what is unique about The Leffell School and why so many families choose this exciting, innovative education and open, embracing community. Toddler playroom available. If you haven't registered, please do so here .Questions? Email Dschutt@leffellschool.org. 

HONOR ISRAELI VETERANS Monday November 11, 6:30-8:30pm at Young Israel of Scarsdale. The Westchester Jewish Council, along with the Jewish Agency for Israel, is honored to host for the 4th consecutive year a delegation of Israel heroes who will be visiting U.S. communities and schools in commemoration of Israel Veterans’ Day – “Honor Day”. They will be appearing one night only in Westchester.  Don’t miss this chance to meet them, hear their stories, and welcome them to our community at this free community wide event hosted at the The event is free; RSVP requested to Helene at helene@wjcouncil.org.

JEWISH LITERATURE FOCUS ON SHORT STORIES Remaining  Mondays are  11/11 through 12/2 at 10:00am-12:15pm. Please join us at Beth El for sessions devoted to short stories written by contemporary Israeli authors and then four sessions on Classic Yiddish short stories. Classes are led by Dr. Eleanor Ehrenkranz. To register visit www.bethelnr.org/stories.  

OPEN BEIT MIDRASH Tuesday, November 12, refreshments at 7:30pm and learning starts at 8:00pm. Each week, attendees will study Jewish texts with Beth El's Rabbi Zach Sitkin, as well as Rabbi Ethan Linden, the executive director of Ramah Berkshires and Rabinnic Fellow, Jessica Fisher. For more information, including opportunities to sponsor Open Beit Midrash, go to  bethelnr.org/openbeit

ISRAELI JUDAISM WITH RABBI MOLLY KARP Remaining class dates:  11/13,11/20,11/27,12/4,12/11,and 12/18 from 9:30 - 11:30am. The book Israeli Judaism, by Rosner and Fuchs, explores Israeli Jewishness.  Drop-in rate, $35, includes classes only. Please contact Rabbi Karp for location of class. For questions, contact rabbimollykarp@gmail.com.

THE WISDOM OF OZ Autobiographical, literary and political writings in memory of Amos Oz. Thursdays 11/14,11/21,12/5 and 12/12. 9:30-10:30am taught by Dr Carol Diament and 10:45am-12 noon by Rabbi David Schuck. Cost to Beth El Members $65| Non members $100. For information on pre class reading and to register although walk ins also welcome, please visit bethelnr.org/oz 

CANTILLATION CLASS Thursday, November 14 at 8:00pm. Taught by Shari Chinitz, and focusing on the trope for reading the two Megillot. Please register at  bethelnr.org/cantillation. For more information and venue, contact Shari on 914-576-2768 or at sharichinitz@gmail.com. 

ULPAN HEBREW CLASSES Remaining class dates:11/13, 11/20,12/4, 12/11, 12/18. Beginners 6:30-7:30pm; Intermediate 7:30-8:30pm; Advanced 8:30 - 9:30pm. Cost is $165 for all classes. Contact Miri at miriulpan@gmail.com or 914-602-503. 
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NEW ROCHELLE HADASSAH Tuesday, November 19 at Beth El. Please join us from 12 noon for a light lunch followed by meeting at 12:30pm. From 1:00pm, we are pleased to welcome Michael Kaplowitz, Westchester County Legislator as our program speaker. 

THANKSGIVING DIVERSITY BREAKFAST Thursday, November 21st at 7:30-10:00am. Please join us at Westchester Community College Valhalla NY to hear Rabbi Segelman. Tickets are $18 if purchased by November 13 or $25 on the door. Please click here forinformation and tickets. 

NIGHT OF JEWISH LEARNING AND CELEBRATION Saturday, November 23, 2019 at 7:15pm (Registration from 7:00pm) at Beth El. Join the Westchester Board of Rabbis together with Westchester Jewish Council for 2 sessions of classes led by 30 Westchester Rabbis, including our own Rabbi Schuck and Rabbi Sitkin. An additional bonus session with Guest Speaker, Rabbi Ethan Tucker. Cost is $20 if register by November 8, or $25 after this date. Cost includes a dairy dessert. Please register by clicking here or by sending your check to Westchester Jewish Council, 925 Westchester Avenue, Suite 200, White Plains, NY 10604. Contact Donna Bartell at donna@wjccouncil.org or on 914-328-7001 for information. 

JNF’s 7th ANNUAL WATER AND WINE RECEPTION December 5th, 7pm.at Westchester Reform Temple featuring Channel 12 News Anchor Michelle Divon, “My Experience at the Gaza Border: How JNF  Helps Families Heal”.  Tickets: $36, includes savory noshes, wine tasting, dessert & coffee, schmoozing and learning more about building a stronger state of Israel.  Sponsorships available. Online registration at: Water & Wine Registration. For info, contact Sharon Lewis, Sharon.lewis@jnf.org.

UJIA FEDERATION ANNUAL GIFT OF HANUKKAH CELEBRATION Sunday, December 8,  2-3:30 pm, at Kittay House in the Bronx. Please join us to play bingo, do crafts and share sufganyiot with more than 150 seniors.  $36 per family.  Event chairs are Jill Goldfein, Audi Abraham Schub and Anya Rackman Wiebke. RSVP at: glicks@ujafedny.org or 914.385.2120. 

ONGOING ITEMS

AMAZON DONATIONS REQUESTED We have been preparing 68 Old Orchard for our Rabbinic Fellows, but we still need a few items and hope you can help. We would appreciate if you selected one (or more) items from the Amazon registry and purchased them, as a donation to Beth El. This will help us complete our efforts. Please put Beth El's address for shipping: 1324 North Avenue, New Rochelle, NY 10804. Thank you in advance. Please click here for the registry link.

NEED HELP LOGGING INTO YOUR BETH EL ONLINE ACCOUNT? For instructions on how to log into your Beth El account on a computer or a phone, including how to reset your password, go to www.bethelnr.org/logininstructions or contact Shayna Klopott (shayna.klopott@gmail.com) or Carrie Fox (csfox99@gmail.com) for assistance.

TORAH FUND PINS ARE IN! Please join with Beth El Sisterhood and Women’s League for Conservative Judaism in supporting the education of our future clergy, educators and community leaders. This year’s theme is Chesed and is depicted as a heart encased in ever-widening circles of generosity, from family to a greater world. Contact Janis DeMartini at jdemartini37@gmail.com or Barbara Horowitz at barbara.w.horowitz@gmail.com

MISHEBERACH LIST Any name added to the Misheberach list will be automatically removed after one month. If someone needs it to remain for another month they must reach out again to one of the clergy. 

SHABBAT DISCUSSION GROUP Selected Shabbatot at 10:15 a.m. in the library with Jack Gruenberg. 

NEW TORAH READING RESOURCES We are happy to announce that the 2020 Torah and Haftarah sign up sheet is now available.  Please visit  www.bethelnr.org/torahsignup  and click on the 2020 tab at the top of the page to sign up. Photos of the entire Torah scroll that we use each week are now available online!  The photos will allow you to practice from the actual Torah that we use on Shabbat.  Visit  www.bethelnr.org/torahimages  to access this new resource. Links to both the sign up sheet and the Torah images can also be found on the Beth El homepage.  If you have any questions, please contact Alan Kellman (alan@twoals.com) or Cantor Aqua (uaqua@bethelnr.org).
 
HAFTARAH READERS WANTED An initiative is underway to encourage broader participation in Haftarah reading during Shabbat services. All interested can sign up online at www.bethelnr.org/torahsignup and contact Steven Cohen (scohen@kanekessler.com) or Cantor Aqua (uaqua@bethelnr.org) with any questions or requests for assistance. We will be reaching out to various groups over the coming weeks to encourage participation and special request is being made to those hesitant to read Haftarah because of their Hebrew or trope skills, as a program is being planned to provide support.

TALMUD DAF SHEVUI STUDY SESSION every Shabbat at 12:30 p.m. in the library. New participants welcome.

ISRAELI FOLK DANCE WITH CANTOR AQUA  Sundays, 10:00 a.m. Join us for great exercise and beautiful music. No experience required. For more information contact Cantor Aqua at uaqua@bethelnr.org.  

CHUG IVRI Join us on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month, 7:30pm, at Beth El. Join other Beth El members and practice speaking Hebrew!

YIDDISH VINKL Fridays 1:00pm at Beth El. Questions, please contact Bea Freedman on 914 337 8645
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CARD ROOM Play Canasta on Mondays at 12:45pm, and Mah Jongg on Tuesdays at 12:45pm. Contact Arlene Salman at aesalman@aol.com or 914-235-2485.

ZUMBA Next class is Sunday, November 10, from 9:30-10:30 a.m, $10 cash. Located in the Beth El Youth Lounge. It’s a fun exercise class, no prior experience needed! For information or to be added to the Zumba email list, please contact Carrie Fox at csfox99@gmail.com.  

GET SMART GET FIT! Wednesday Mornings, 10:30am - 11:30am
Wear comfortable clothes and sneakers. This program is free of charge and no RSVP is needed. Donations are always appreciated. Put on your silver sneakers and join the fun! First session is November 13 - Chair Yoga with Nan. 

BEST DAYS EVER! BETH EL SUMMER CAMP Sign up now for summer 2020!
For children aged 2-9 years. Camp runs from Monday, June 29, 2020 - Thursday, August 20, 2020. For a tour or questions, contact Julie Rockowitz at jrockowitz@bethelnr.org or on 914.235.2700, x256.

* Please note, certain ongoing Beth El programs, initiatives, and items usually included in Shabbat Announcements, can be found at www.bethelnr.org/ongoing.

An archive of all of our "El" newsletter and Shabbat Announcements can be found at bethelnr.org/announcements.

Click here ​​​​​for our full calendar of programs.

Friday, November 1, 2019 • 3 Heshvan 5780
5:33pm Candle Lighting
5:40pm Mincha/Maariv

Saturday, November 2, 2019 • 4 Heshvan 5780 
Parshat Noach 
 Genesis 6:9-11:32 pp. 41-63
Isaiah 54:1-55:5 pp. 65-68

THE BAT MITZVAH OF LINDSAY REIS  
9:00am Shabbat Morning Services (Main Sanctuary)
9:30am Shabbat Space (Board Room)
10:15am Pre-Service Oneg Shabbat (Board Room)
10:45am Family Kehillah Service (Goldberger Chapel)
10:45am Tot Shabbat (Levenson Chapel)
12:00 Kiddush Lunch 
12:30pm Daf Shevui (Library)
5:40pm Mincha/Maariv
6:32​​​​​​​pm Havdalah 

The Kiddush is sponsored by Anne and Andrew Reis in honor of the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter, Lindsay Reis. 

The following people are assisting on Shabbat:
Carrie Fox  and Ellen Barlis, Ushers; Donna Levy,  Gabbai;
Sam Berger, Officer Chair; Jack Gruenberg and Michael Meisler, Greeters.

Thank you to our Torah and Haftarah Readers :
Ethan Glickman, Randy Longman, Alan Kellman, Abe Bartell and Lindsay Reis 

Thank you to the volunteer kiddush committee - the people who come before services to prepare kiddush, those who set up the kiddush during services, and those who stay after kiddush to clean up. Please contact Barbara Horowitz  if you would like to come one shabbat and help. 

MAZAL TOV, REFUAH SHLEIMAH, CONDOLENCES
Mazal Tov to Cantor Uri and Judy Aqua on the birth of their first granddaughter, Rachel, born to parents, Daniel and Debby Aqua of Hollywood, Florida.  Mazal Tov also brothers Ethan and Ezra Aqua.

Mazal tov to Anne and Andrew Reis in honor of the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter, Lindsay Reis. 

Mazal Tov to Elissa Baum on the marriage of her granddaughter Sabrina Baum, daughter of Simeon and Duffie Baum,  and granddaughter of the late Morton Baum, to Charlie Low; 

Mazal tov to Elliot and Susan Hollander on the marriage of their daughter, Emily Hollander to Nathan Igdaloff. 

Mazal tov to Phyllis Feingold on being inducted into the Westchester County Senior Citizen Hall of Fame. 

Mazal tov to Sue and Michael Meisler on the birth of their grandson, Itai Yeshayahu, born to parents , Yael and Jacob Meisler. Mazal tov also to grandparents, Mira and Ted Mordfin.

Mazal tov to Roni and Mike Schiffres on the birth of their granddaughter, Yvie Wang Schiffres  to parents, Scott Schiffres and Yuxin Wang.

Condolences to Marvin (Shari) and Lynn (Steven Gruenstein) Chinitz. on the loss of their mother, Hilda Chinitz, and also to our members Ilana (Uri) Tamir and Isaac (Janine) Chinitz on the loss of their grandmother.

​​​​​​​Those marking a simcha, observing the loss of a loved one, or who is sick or recovering from an illness have delighted/comforted that their lifecycle event has inspired generosity. If you would like to make a donation to Beth El in honor or in memory, please click here.

MINYAN TIMES
Sunday 8:00 a.m Shacharit; 4:40 p.m. Mincha/Maariv 
Monday 6:55 a.m. Shacharit; 4:40 p.m. Mincha/Maariv 
Tuesday 7:00 a.m. Shacharit; 4:40 p.m. Mincha/Maariv 
Wednesday 7:00 a.m. Shacharit; 4:40 p.m Mincha/Maariv 
Thursday 6:55 a.m. Shacharit; 4:40 p.m. Mincha/Maariv
Friday 7:00 a.m. Shacharit; 4:40 p.m. Mincha/Maariv

D'var Torah: The Light in our Words
Rabbi Uri Allen, Conservative Yeshiva Alum & Associate Rabbi and Director of Makom at Temple Beth Sholom in Roslyn Heights, NY

As Noah receives the instructions for building the ark in this week's parashah, God gives an unusual command: tsohar ta'aseh la-teiva - make a tsohar in the ark. Since tsohar is a unique word in the Torah, occurring only with reference to Noah's Ark, we have no other context from which to figure out the meaning. Turning to Rashi however, we learn that a tsohar is something meant to provide light, either an actual window or precious stones that enable the sun's rays to illuminate the ark. 

The Baal Shem Tov - the founder of Hasidism - understands this command to Noah not in a physical way but in a spiritual way. His focus is on the ark itself. He says that ha-teivah (Hebrew for the ark) here carries another meaning - 'the word'. So the command shifts from "make a light source in the ark" to  "make your words light." The suggestion here is that in the same way that the ark was the mechanism for saving the world, our words can have similar saving power if they are imbued with light.

How can we do this? We can do this by looking for the good in others, recognizing it and actually giving that thought voice. We can do this through our use of social media- to promote that which is good in the world. We can do this in all of the ways that we communicate with one another. Adding light, joy, and goodness to those interactions is a way to participate, as Noah did, in bringing about a new world.
But it doesn't stop there. If the word ha-teivah means "the word", what happens when I read other instances of teivah according to this interpretation? Can we extend the metaphor into the rest of the parashah? If we do then we find two additional instances that add another turn in what it means to focus on our speech.

When Noah is instructed, "bo el ha-teivah" - go into the ark - following the Baal Shem Tov that would mean: "enter into the word." The Besh't continues - "When a person enters into the words of prayer or Torah study one should do so with their whole self and with total presence." This is a useful message not only in our prayer and study but in our interpersonal communications as well. When we enter into the word, we can do so with total presence and focus.

Later, the instruction is to leave the ark, "tse min ha-teivah" - leave the word. In other words, stop talking. In the space when we get away from our words, we leave room in the conversation to truly listen and hear what the other person is saying to us. 

The teivah - the ark - saves the world. It enables God and humanity to have a fresh start. To be a truly effective tool to restart the universe, both the ark and our words must be composed of light to banish the darkness that caused the need to begin again in the first place. When we enter into our ark, our words, we can do so with our whole selves and with total focus enabling that light to truly shine.

But the state of being in the teivah is temporary. We cannot stay there with full focus and intensity for too long. We must get out of the ark in order to engage with the world around us, with the people around us, with our community, with our tefilah and with our Torah. The words that are not ours also contain light. When we can get out of our own teivah, we can allow the light of others to shine as well.

When we do that, we truly build a new world together. Shabbat Shalom.

Would you like to see your event featured in the Shabbat Announcements?
To have your announcement included in the Shabbat Announcement email

please paste it into this Google Document. All submissions must be in by Thursday at noon to make it into the week's announcements.

For more information about this transition, please visit bethelnr.org/marketing.

BESC FEATURED ANNOUNCEMENTS
Please follow us: Facebook.com/bethelsynagoguecenter and spread the word about news, events, and information by “liking” or “sharing!” 
 
RETURN OF SMART- SENIOR MATURE ADULTS RETIRED TOGETHER Tuesday, November 5th. Please join us for coffee at 10:00am, followed by author and New Rochelle resident, Pamela Hull, who will speak on her book Moments That Mattered. Stay for a free dairy lunch! RSVP to jrockowitz@bethelnr.org or call with questions, 914.235.2700 x 256.

SISTERHOOD AND THE SYMPHONY OF WESTCHESTER Saturday, November 9 at 8:00pm. Cost is $40. Join the Sisterhood at Iona College for an evening of Beethoven Music with guest Israeli classical pianist, Alon Goldstein. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are available now. Contact Carole Graham 914-576-6617 or carolegraham@optonline.net.

SISTERHOOD PAID-UP MEMBERSHIP DINNER Thursday, November 14, starting with cocktail hour at 6:00pm, followed by dinner at 7:00pm. RSVP to Lori Schwartz at oreomets13@yahoo.com / 633-6989.  

CASINO NIGHT Saturday, November 16, 7:30pm. Please join us for poker, craps, roulette and blackjack, and a fun evening with friends. Enjoy open bar, sushi, raffles, online auction, snacks, dairy desserts and a DJ. RSVP for reduced price of $36/person at bethelnr.org/casinonight or walk in price is $45. 

SMART - SENIOR MATURE ADULTS RETIRED TOGETHER SOLVING THE MEDICARE PUZZLE Tuesday, November 19 at 10am for Coffee, and then 10:30am to hear expert Medicare plan adviser Robert Remin explains how to make the most appropriate Medicare choice for you or your family's situation. This presentation is for those turning 65 soon, already in the Medicare-eligible market, and the adult children of either making or assisting with the decision for their parents. RSVP to Julie Rockowitz, jrockowitz@bethelnr.org, 914.235.2700 x256.

NEW ART EXHIBIT FOR THE BETH EL MUSEUM Thursday, November 21st,  7:00pm - 9:00pm. Artist Laura Lapin presents “Some Place Like Home” in our Kanner-Kurzon Museum now through the end of November. Please join us for an Artist's reception to view the artwork and enjoy some wine and cheese.  

SISTERHOOD BAGELS AND BOOKS Monday, November 25, 9:30am. Please join us for bagels, coffee and discussion of We Were The Lucky Ones by  Georgia Hunter. Questions? Contact Arlene Salman at aesalman@aol.com or 914-235-2485.

MEN'S CLUB BLOOD DRIVE Sunday, December 8 at 8:30am - 1:00pm. Contact Alan Greenberg for information on asgreenberg2@gmail.com or visit bethelnr.org/blooddrive ​​​​​​​ to register. Walk ins will be welcome. 

COMMUNITY SHABBAT SERVICE AND DINNER 

Please join us on Friday, November 22, at 6:30 p.m for Libeinu, a Friday night service filled with beautiful song, quiet prayer and inspiring words of Torah, followed by a community Shabbat dinner. Contact Jack Klebanow for information, jklebanow@bethelnr.org and to register please click here. 

Join us again on Saturday, November 23 at 9:00 a.m for Niggun Halev to enjoy a special music-filled Shabbat morning service. 

SPIRITUAL PRACTICES

MELAVEH MALKAH Saturday, November 9 at 7:30-9:30 pm at the home of Lauren Freeman-Bosworth and Brian Bosworth. Address provided on RSVP. Please join Rabbi Schuck, Rabbi Sitkin, Cantor Aqua, Jack Klebanow and special musical guests for a soulful evening of singing as a community. All are welcome. Please RSVP to bethelnr.org/MelavehMalkahNov2019 

FAMILY TRIP TO ISRAEL
AUGUST 25 - SEPTEMBER 4 2020                                   

Led by Rabbi David Schuck, join us to explore the wonders of Jerusalem, museum tours, scavenger hunts, visiting memorials, archaeological digs, floating in the dead sea, learning from scholars and much more. 
To view the full itinerary, cost and information on registration for the trip, visit  https://daattravel.com/bethelNR2020

Mark your calendars for an off the beaten track trip to Israel on April 11-21 2021, also led by Rabbi Schuck. Further information to be released later in the year.

DEPARTMENT OF YOUTH AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT
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BRING HOME CHALLAH FOR SHABBAT Would you like delicious, fresh challah each week? Beth El Religious School Parent Organization's popular fundraiser is back. Challah will be delivered to Beth El Synagogue Center for 26 weeks. You can collect your challah at any point before Friday evening - if you have a child in the Religious School, the challah will be sent home with them!  Order today at  bethelnr.org/rschallah .

TEEN SHABBAT SICHA & HANG OUT Saturday, November 2, 10:30 am-12:00 pm in the Youth Lounge followed by Kiddush Lunch. Join teen board members and friends for a great conversation during services.  Snacks provided.  And have your lunch in the Teen Lounge/Room 103A afterward to keep the fun going!  No registration necessary.  Questions?  Contact Andrew: usy@bethelnr.org.  Open to all 9th-12th graders.

YC MOVIE DAY Tuesday, November 5, 1:30-3:30 pm.  Open to ALL Youth, Grades K-12.  Different movie options available for different age groups.  Community Service Hours Available.  Contact Bekkah (rgold@bethelnr.org) if interested.  Snacks provided.  $5 before November 4 per child & $10 at the door.  Register at  bethelnr.org/ycmovieday.  Questions? Contact Stephanie: slederman@bethelnr.org.  There is No RS Cooking Chug on Tuesday due to Election Day.

METNY USY REGIONAL FALL KINNUS Friday, November 8-Sunday, November 10. Join teens from all over the New York region for a fun Shabbat weekend at Orangetown Jewish Center.  Register at  https://regpacks.com/metny1920 .  Open to all 9th-12th graders.

YC NO SCHOOL PARTY AT SKY ZONE! Monday, November 11 (Veteran's Day), 1:30-3:30 pm.  Open to ALL Youth, Grades K-12.  Snacks provided.  Community Service Hours Available.  Contact Bekkah (rgold@bethelnr.org) if interested.  $25 before Friday, November 8 & $30 at the door. Register at  bethelnr.org/noschoolparty.  Questions? Contact Stephanie: slederman@bethelnr.org.  If you register, please fill out the waiver found here:  https://www.skyzone.com/newrochelle .  We are looking for parent volunteers!  If you are available, please contact Stephanie.

RUACH & CHAVERIM SHABBAT SERVICE & DINNER Friday, November 15, 5:30-8:00 pm.  ALL families with a child in Grades K-5 are invited to join Rabbinic Fellow Jessica Fisher for a Shabbat service followed by Shabbat dinner. $36 per family. Register online by Wednesday, November 13:  bethelnr.org/shabbatdinner.  Questions? Contact Stephanie: slederman@bethelnr.org.

BE MITZVAH EXPERIENCE SESSION 2 FOR 6TH GRADERS AND PARENTS Sunday, November 17, 10:15 am-12:00 pm.  All 6th graders and their families are invited to come to the second BE Mitzvah Experience Session.  Register here:   bethelnr.org/event/be-mitzvah-experience2.html

FOR PARENTS:

HAPPY HOUR Tuesday, November 19, 7:30 pm at North End Tavern (3rd Tuesday of every month). Join parents for a fun social night out!  No registration needed, just join us!

SCREENAGERS NEXT CHAPTER UNCOVERING SKILLS FOR STRESS RESILIENCE Sunday, November 24, 12pm-2pm. Please join Beth El Synagogue Center's Mental Health Initiative film screening geared towards 5th-12th graders, parents and caring adults. This documentary, focused on helping teens thrive in our screen and stress-filled world, will be followed by breakout sessions for adults and teens on supporting mental health wellness in teens led by Dr. Joselyn Fine, Psychologist and Mrs. Suzie Marder, Social Worker.

WHEREVER WE STAND, WE STAND WITH ISRAEL

​​​​​​​Beth El's Israel Affairs Committee would like to share interesting and exciting news regarding the week's developments in business, culture, technology, agriculture, sports, and the environment in Israel. 

Kurdish children being treated at Israeli hospital

Tel Aviv, other cities, announce pilot for Shabbat bus service

LIMMUD, LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES & COMMUNITY EVENTS

THE LEFFELL SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE - NEW NAME SAME HEART Sunday, November 3, 2019 for the High School (Gr 9-12) at 555 West Hartsdale Avenue Hartsdale NY. Sunday; November 10, 2019 for the lower school (Gr K-5) at 30 Dellwood Rd White Plains NY; Sunday, December 8, 2019 for the Middle School (Gr 6-8) at 555 West Hartsdale Avenue Hartsdale NY.

JEWISH LITERATURE FOCUS ON SHORT STORIES Remaining  Mondays are  11/4 through 12/2 at 10:00am-12:15pm. Please join us at Beth El for sessions devoted to short stories written by contemporary Israeli authors and then four sessions on Classic Yiddish short stories. Classes are led by Dr. Eleanor Ehrenkranz. To register visit www.bethelnr.org/stories.  

ISRAELI JUDAISM WITH RABBI MOLLY KARP Remaining class dates: 11/6, 11/13,11/20,11/27,12/4,12/11,and 12/18 from 9:30 - 11:30am. The book Israeli Judaism, by Rosner and Fuchs, explores Israeli Jewishness.  Drop-in rate, $35, includes classes only. For questions, contact rabbimollykarp@gmail.com.

RETURN OF OPEN BEIT MIDRASH Thursday, November 7, refreshments at 7:30pm and learning starts at 8:00pm. Each week, attendees will study Jewish texts with Beth El's Rabbi David Schuck and Rabbi Zach Sitkin, as well as Rabbi Ethan Linden, the executive director of Ramah Berkshires. For more information, including opportunities to sponsor Open Beit Midrash, go to  bethelnr.org/openbeit

THE WISDOM OF OZ Autobiographical, literary and political writings in memory of Amos Oz. Thursdays 11/7,11/14,11/21,12/5 and 12/12. 9:30-10:30am taught by Dr Carol Diament and 10:45am-12 noon by Rabbi David Schuck. Cost to Beth El Members $65| Non members $100. For information on pre class reading and to register although walk ins also welcome, please visit bethelnr.org/oz 

CANTILLATION CLASS Wednesday, November 6 at 8:00pm. Taught by Shari Chinitz, and focusing on the trope for reading the two Megillot. Please register at  bethelnr.org/cantillation. For more information, contact Shari on 914-576-2768 or at sharichinitz@gmail.com. 

ULPAN HEBREW CLASSES Remaining class dates:11/13, 11/20,12/4, 12/11, 12/18. Beginners 6:30-7:30pm; Intermediate 7:30-8:30pm; Advanced 8:30 - 9:30pm. Cost is $165 for all classes. Contact Miri at miriulpan@gmail.com or 914-602-503. 
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NIGHT OF JEWISH LEARNING AND CELEBRATION Saturday, November 23, 2019 at 7:15pm (Registration from 7:00pm) at Beth El. Join the Westchester Board of Rabbis together with Westchester Jewish Council for 2 sessions of classes led by 30 Westchester Rabbis, including our own Rabbi Schuck and Rabbi Sitkin. An additional bonus session with Guest Speaker, Rabbi Ethan Tucker. Cost is $20 if register by November 8, or $25 after this date. Cost includes a dairy dessert. Please register by clicking here or by sending your check to Westchester Jewish Council, 925 Westchester Avenue, Suite 200, White Plains, NY 10604. Contact Donna Bartell at donna@wjccouncil.org or on 914-328-7001 for information. 

ONGOING ITEMS

AMAZON DONATIONS REQUESTED We have been preparing 68 Old Orchard for our Rabbinic Fellows, but we still need a few items and hope you can help. We would appreciate if you selected one (or more) items from the Amazon registry and purchased them, as a donation to Beth El. This will help us complete our efforts. Please put Beth El's address for shipping: 1324 North Avenue, New Rochelle, NY 10804. Thank you in advance. Please click here for the registry link.

NEED HELP LOGGING INTO YOUR BETH EL ONLINE ACCOUNT? For instructions on how to log into your Beth El account on a computer or a phone, including how to reset your password, go to www.bethelnr.org/logininstructions or contact Shayna Klopott (shayna.klopott@gmail.com) or Carrie Fox (csfox99@gmail.com) for assistance.

TORAH FUND PINS ARE IN! Please join with Beth El Sisterhood and Women’s League for Conservative Judaism in supporting the education of our future clergy, educators and community leaders. This year’s theme is Chesed and is depicted as a heart encased in ever-widening circles of generosity, from family to a greater world. Contact Janis DeMartini at jdemartini37@gmail.com or Barbara Horowitz at barbara.w.horowitz@gmail.com

MISHEBERACH LIST Any name added to the Misheberach list will be automatically removed after one month. If someone needs it to remain for another month they must reach out again to one of the clergy. 

SHABBAT DISCUSSION GROUP Selected Shabbatot at 10:15 a.m. in the library with Jack Gruenberg. 

TORAH AND HAFTARAH READERS WANTED! An initiative is underway to encourage broader participation in Haftarah reading during Shabbat services. Steven Cohen is overseeing this effort and will be reaching out to various groups over the coming weeks. All interested can sign up to read using the Beth El sign up link at  bethelnr.org/torahsignup  and contact Steven (scohen@kanekessler.com) or Cantor Aqua (uaqua@bethelnr.org) with any requests for assistance. Special request to contact Steven or Cantor Aqua is being made to those hesitant to read Haftarah because of their Hebrew or trope skills, as a program is being planned to provide support to those in this category.

TALMUD DAF SHEVUI STUDY SESSION every Shabbat at 12:30 p.m. in the library. New participants welcome.

WE WANT YOU Would you like to save a life? Would you like to help keep Beth El safe? We are looking for people with medical and/or emergency experience and knowledge (doctors, nurses, EMTs, firefighter, policemen, lifeguards, anyone willing to help.) We are starting a first responder team to help for Shabbat and Holidays. You won't have to sign up for dates, it's for when you are there and willing. If you are interested contact Abby Wise at awise@bethelnr.org.

ISRAELI FOLK DANCE WITH CANTOR AQUA  Sundays, 10:00 a.m. Join us for great exercise and beautiful music. No experience required. For more information contact Cantor Aqua at uaqua@bethelnr.org.  

CHUG IVRI Join us on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month, 7:30pm, at Beth El. Join other Beth El members and practice speaking Hebrew!

YIDDISH VINKL Fridays 1:00pm at Beth El. Questions, please contact Bea Freedman on 914 337 8645
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CARD ROOM Play Canasta on Mondays at 12:45pm, and Mah Jongg on Tuesdays at 12:45pm. Contact Arlene Salman at aesalman@aol.com or 914-235-2485.

ZUMBA Next class is Sunday, November 3, from 9:30-10:30 a.m, $10 cash. Located in the Beth El Youth Lounge. It’s a fun exercise class, no prior experience needed! For information or to be added to the Zumba email list, please contact Carrie Fox at csfox99@gmail.com.  

GET SMART GET FIT! Wednesday Mornings, 10:30am - 11:30am
Wear comfortable clothes and sneakers. This program is free of charge and no RSVP is needed. Donations are always appreciated. Put on your silver sneakers and join the fun! First session is November 6 - Balance with Tim.

BEST DAYS EVER! BETH EL SUMMER CAMP Sign up now for summer 2020!
For children aged 2-9 years. Camp runs from Monday, June 29, 2020 - Thursday, August 20, 2020. For a tour or questions, contact Julie Rockowitz at jrockowitz@bethelnr.org or on 914.235.2700, x256.

* Please note, certain ongoing Beth El programs, initiatives, and items usually included in Shabbat Announcements, can be found at www.bethelnr.org/ongoing.

An archive of all of our "El" newsletter and Shabbat Announcements can be found at bethelnr.org/announcements.

Click here ​​​​​for our full calendar of programs.

#SHOWUPFORSHABBAT
In solidarity for the year anniversary of the Pittsburgh shooting, the AJC calls on you to attend synagogue services on Friday, October 25 and Saturday, October 26 in memory of the victims and to stand up against anti semitism.
For more information, please click here .

Friday, October 25, 2019 • 26 Tishri 5780
5:42pm Candle Lighting
5:50pm Mincha/Maariv
6:30pm Libeinu

Saturday, October 26, 2019 • 27 Tishri 5780 
Parshat Bereishit
Bereishit 1:1-6:8 | Etz Hayim pp.3-34
Haftorah Isaiah 42:5-43:10 | Etz Hayim pp.35-40

THE BAR MITZVAH OF ARI MAYBLUM 
Chai House Visits
9:00am Niggun Halev | Shabbat Morning Services (Main Sanctuary)
Special music-filled Shabbat morning service - come early, sing and pray together.
9:30am Shabbat Space (Board Room)
10:15am Pre-Service Oneg Shabbat (Board Room)
10:45am Family Kehillah Service (Goldberger Chapel)
10:45am Tot Shabbat (Levenson Chapel)
12:00 Kiddush Lunch 
12:30pm Daf Shevui (Library)
5:40pm Mincha/Maariv
6:41​​​​​​​pm Havdalah 

The Kiddush is sponsored by Debbie and Adam Mayblum in honor of the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Ari Mayblum. 

The following people are assisting on Shabbat:
Jayne Peister and Sam Berger, Ushers; Steven Young, Gabbai;
Debbie Young, Officer Chair; Aaron Fleishaker and David Lacher, Greeters.

Thank you to our Torah and Haftorah Readers :
Ari Mayblum, Debbie Mayblum, Elijah Wiseman, Ethan Mayblum and Kyle Mayblum

Thank you to the volunteer kiddush committee - the people who come before services to prepare kiddush, those who set up the kiddush during services, and those who stay after kiddush to clean up. Please contact Barbara Horowitz  if you would like to come one shabbat and help. 

MAZAL TOV, REFUAH SHLEIMAH, CONDOLENCES
Mazal tov to Debbie and Adam Mayblum on the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Ari Mayblum

Mazal tov to Paul and Hanita Schneiderman on the engagement of their son Jesse to Megan Lawless, daughter of Drs. Steve and Kathy Lawless.
 
Mazal tov to Paul and Hanita Schneiderman on the engagement of their son David to Marley Glabman, daughter of Gary and Laura Glabman. 

Mazal tov to Kara and Max Kalman on the birth of their son and also to grandparents, Aaron and Sheryl Fleishaker and Betty and Paul Kalman. Mazal tov to Donald Fleishaker on the birth of a great grandson. 

Mazal tov to Alan Greenberg on the engagement of his daughter, Lauren to Aaron Steinberg-Madow. 

Mazal Tov to Beth El's Youth and Family Coordinator, Stephanie Lederman, on the engagement of her daughter Emily to Sam Kanter, son of Debbie and Simon Kanter. 

Condolences to Marci (Alan) Marcus on the loss of her father, Allen Beckman. 
​​​​​​​
​​​​​​​Those marking a simcha, observing the loss of a loved one, or who is sick or recovering from an illness have delighted/comforted that their lifecycle event has inspired generosity. If you would like to make a donation to Beth El in honor or in memory, please click here.

MINYAN TIMES

Sunday 8:00 a.m Shacharit; 5:40 p.m. Mincha/Maariv 
Monday 6:55 a.m. Shacharit; 5:40 p.m. Mincha/Maariv 
Tuesday 7:00 a.m. Shacharit; 5:40 p.m. Mincha/Maariv 
Wednesday 7:00 a.m. Shacharit; 5:40 p.m Mincha/Maariv 
Thursday 6:55 a.m. Shacharit; 5:40 p.m. Mincha/Maariv
Friday 7:00 a.m. Shacharit; 5:40 p.m. Mincha/Maariv

D'var Torah: Seeing Miracles
Rabbi Louis Sachs, Conservative Yeshiva Alum & Associate Rabbi at Beth Tikvah Synagogue in Toronto, Ontario

The Torah is full of miracles: food falls from the heavens, a staff splits the sea, a donkey speaks, the earth itself opens up, just to name a few. These events call attention to themselves and stand out both to those present and those who hear/read about them because they are exceptional and defy expectations about how the world works. As we begin again the cycle of Torah readings with Parashat Bereshit, these stories, and the notion of miracles in general, can be difficult for us to relate to. 

Since the advent of the Enlightenment, it has become much less common to label events "miracles." Rationalist philosophers like David Hume argued that since miracles violate the natural order when someone reports a "miracle" it is more likely a deception or error of judgment - the laws of nature are far more reliable than any human witness. If so, then what are we to think of our ancient stories and the central role "miracle" plays in Jewish religious life?

This question touches on the greatest threat religion faces today, and it is not unique to Judaism. Religion today is besieged by disbelief. The prevailing voice in society is that religion or science are diametrically opposed: one can believe in and be guided by one or the other, but not both. Many then, abandon religion in exchange for a materialistic and scientific worldview, and in so doing, cut themselves off from the ability to experience the miraculous.

In response, scientists/believers such as Harvard Paleontologist/Evolutionary Biologist Stephen Jay Gould argued that science and religion are compatible, but only because neither oversteps its jurisdiction and transgresses beyond its domain. In other words, religion asks why and science asks how. The problem with this view is that it relegates religion to a place in which it has nothing to say about some of the most important questions facing us today.

Our tradition offers us a third view, as the Jewish Sages of old were familiar with the science of their day and also faced the dilemma of how to reconcile empirical and religious truth. In the Mishnah Pirkei Avot 5:6 they taught:

Ten things were created on the eve of the Sabbath at twilight, and these are they: [1] the mouth of the earth, [2] the mouth of the well, [3] the mouth of the donkey, [4] the rainbow, [5] the manna, [6] the staff [of Moses], [7] the shamir, [8] the letters, [9] the writing, [10] and the tablets. And some say: also the demons, the grave of Moses, and the ram of Abraham, our father. And some say: and also tongs, made with tongs.

In other words, the miracles listed above, though exceptional, are part of the original creation. That this list is limited to only a few items may indicate that the Sages believed that true miracles were relegated to the Biblical past. But read more expansively, Pirkei Avot makes the more radical claim that miracles are not the natural order being overturned, they are the natural order at work. It is not that miracles stopped occurring, but that we do not recognize them as such when we don't take the time to look at the world with a sense of awe and wonder.

Jewish practice challenges and trains us to see the sacred in the mundane and appreciate daily miracles. Each day in the Amidah we recite the words of Modim, and the blessing concludes thanking God for "...miracles that accompany us each day, and for Your wonders and Your gifts that are with us each moment- evening, morning, and noon." For many, the idea of a daily miracle is an oxymoron, but our tradition offers us the chance to approach each day with sensitivity to the holy and sacred. It does not ask us to suspend our belief in scientific knowledge; it asks us to suspend our belief that little moments are not really big ones. 

As scientific knowledge grew, the rabbis did not establish separate spheres for religion and science. Instead, they reinterpreted the Torah in light of their new understandings. This year, as we begin a new cycle of Torah, let us approach the text with the same openness and bravery - openness to look to our ancient heritage for wisdom, and bravery to demand its relevance to our modern lives.

Would you like to see your event featured in the Shabbat Announcements?
To have your announcement included in the Shabbat Announcement email

please paste it into this Google Document. All submissions must be in by Thursday at noon to make it into the week's announcements.

For more information about this transition, please visit bethelnr.org/marketing.

BESC FEATURED ANNOUNCEMENTS
Please follow us: Facebook.com/bethelsynagoguecenter and spread the word about news, events, and information by “liking” or “sharing!” 
 
SISTERHOOD BAGELS AND BOOKS Monday, October 28, 9:30am. Please join us for bagels, coffee and discussion of The World Without You, by  Joshua Henkin. Questions? Contact Arlene Salman at aesalman@aol.com or 914-235-2485.

RETURN OF SMART Tuesday, November 5th. Please join our first Senior Mature Adults Retired Together for coffee at 10:00am, followed by author and New Rochelle resident, Pamela Hull, who will speak on her book Moments That Mattered. Stay for a free dairy lunch! RSVP to jrockowitz@bethelnr.org or call with questions, 914.235.2700 x 256.

SISTERHOOD AND THE SYMPHONY OF WESTCHESTER Saturday, November 9 at 8:00pm. Cost is $40. Join the Sisterhood at Iona College for an evening of Beethoven Music with guest Israeli classical pianist, Alon Goldstein. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are available now. Contact Carole Graham 914-576-6617 or carolegraham@optonline.net.

SISTERHOOD PAID-UP MEMBERSHIP DINNER Thursday, November 14, starting with cocktail hour at 6:00pm, followed by dinner at 7:00pm. RSVP to Lori Schwartz at oreomets13@yahoo.com / 633-6989.  

CASINO NIGHT Saturday, November 16, 7:30pm. Please join us for poker, craps, roulette and blackjack, and a fun evening with friends. Enjoy open bar, sushi, raffles, online auction, snacks, dairy desserts and a DJ. RSVP for reduced price of $36/person at bethelnr.org/casinonight or walk in price is $45. 

SMART SOLVING THE MEDICARE PUZZLE Tuesday, November 18 at 10am for Coffee, and then 10:30am to hear expert Medicare plan adviser Robert Remin explains how to make the most appropriate Medicare choice for you or your family's situation. This presentation is for those turning 65 soon, already in the Medicare-eligible market, and the adult children of either making or assisting with the decision for their parents. RSVP to Julie Rockowitz, jrockowitz@bethelnr.org, 914.235.2700 x256.

NEW ART EXHIBIT FOR THE BETH EL MUSEUM Thursday, November 21st,  7:00pm - 9:00pm. Artist Laura Lapin presents “Some Place Like Home” in our Kanner-Kurzon Museum now through the end of November. Please join us for an Artist's reception to view the artwork and enjoy some wine and cheese.  

SPIRITUAL PRACTICES
​​​​​​​
MELAVEH MALKAH Saturday, November 9 at 7:30-9:30 pm at the home of Lauren Freeman-Bosworth and Brian Bosworth. Address provided on RSVP. Please join Rabbi Schuck, Rabbi Sitkin, Cantor Aqua, Jack Klebanow and special musical guests for a soulful evening of singing as a community. All are welcome. Please RSVP to bethelnr.org/MelavehMalkahNov2019

FAMILY TRIP TO ISRAEL
AUGUST 25 - SEPTEMBER 4 2020                                   

Led by Rabbi David Schuck, join us to explore the wonders of Jerusalem, museum tours, scavenger hunts, visiting memorials, archaeological digs, floating in the dead sea, learning from scholars and much more. 
To view the full itinerary, cost and information on registration for the trip, visit  https://daattravel.com/bethelNR2020

Mark your calendars for an off the beaten track trip to Israel on April 11-21 2021, also led by Rabbi Schuck. Further information to be released later in the year.

DEPARTMENT OF YOUTH AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT
​
BRING HOME CHALLAH FOR SHABBAT Would you like delicious, fresh challah each week? Beth El Religious School Parent Organization's popular fundraiser is back. Challah will be delivered to Beth El Synagogue Center for 26 weeks. You can collect your challah at any point before Friday evening - if you have a child in the Religious School, the challah will be sent home with them!  Order today at  bethelnr.org/rschallah .

INTERESTED IN SHEVET FOR 9TH GRADE BOYS? Reach out to Andrew Van Bochove at usy@bethelnr.org. 

THE PETTING ZOO IS COMING TO TOWN Sunday, October 27, 2019 - Ruach (Grades K-2 ): 11:00 am-12:15 pm & Chaverim (Grades 3- 5): 12:00-1:15 pm. Come meet the animals in honor of Parshat Noach - goats, chickens, bunnies and more, right here at Beth El! Pizza provided to all at 12:00 pm. $10 per child before October 24 & $15 afterwards. Walk Ins Welcome. Register by Thursday, October 24 at  www.bethelnr.org/pettingzoo19 . Questions? Contact Stephanie: slederman@bethelnr.org.

WHEREVER WE STAND, WE STAND WITH ISRAEL

​​​​​​​Beth El's Israel Affairs Committee would like to share interesting and exciting news regarding the week's developments in business, culture, technology, agriculture, sports, and the environment in Israel. 

A chance discovery changes everything we know about biblical Israel

Conductor Zubin Mehta takes final bow with Israel Philharmonic Orchestra

LIMMUD, LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES & COMMUNITY EVENTS

A DAY TO COMBAT ANTISEMITISM October 27 at 10:00am at Central Synagogue NY. Please join the UJA and AJC for a Day of Action Against Anti-Semitism and a memorial event for the victims of the Tree of Life shooting. All are welcome! For more information, contact Beth Levick, AJC Assistant Director, at levickb@ajc.org or 212-891-1442.

ISRAELI JUDAISM WITH RABBI MOLLY KARP Class dates: 10/30,11/6, 11/13,11/20,11/27,12/4,12/11,and 12/18 from 9:30 - 11:30am. The book Israeli Judaism, by Rosner and Fuchs, explores Israeli Jewishness.  Drop-in rate, $35, includes classes only. For questions, contact rabbimollykarp@gmail.com.

JEWISH LITERATURE FOCUS ON SHORT STORIES Remaining Mondays are  10/28, and 11/4 through 12/2 at 10:00am-12:15pm. Please join us at Beth El for sessions devoted to short stories written by contemporary Israeli authors and then four sessions on Classic Yiddish short stories. Classes are led by Dr. Eleanor Ehrenkranz. To register visit www.bethelnr.org/stories.  

CARMEL ACADEMY OPEN HOUSE Sunday, October 27th from 10:00am to 12:00pm.  Learn about our individualized whole-child approach, rigorous and award-winning curriculum and enrichment opportunities. Attend an array of "mini classes" led by our faculty, tour our idyllic 17-acre campus and explore social/emotional learning during a brief panel discussion. Engaging games & activities provided for accompanying children! Register now at www.carmelacademy.com. 

ULPAN HEBREW CLASSES  Class Dates:10/30, 11/13, 11/20,12/4, 12/11,12/18. Beginners 6:30-7:30pm; Intermediate 7:30-8:30pm; Advanced 8:30-9:30pm. Cost is $165 for all classes. Contact Miri at miriulpan@gmail.com or 914-602-503. 

CANTILLATION CLASS Wednesday, October 30 at 8:00pm. Taught by Shari Chinitz, and focusing on the trope for reading the two Megillot. Please register at  bethelnr.org/cantillation. For more information, contact Shari on 914-576-2768 or at sharichinitz@gmail.com. 

THE WISDOM OF OZ Autobiographical, literary and political writings in memory of Amos Oz. Thursdays 10/31,11/7,11/14,11/21,12/5 and 12/12. 9:30-10:30am taught by Dr Carol Diament and 10:45am-12 noon by Rabbi David Schuck. Cost to Beth El Members $65| Non members $100. For information on pre class reading and to register although walk ins also welcome, please visit bethelnr.org/oz 

THE LEFFELL SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE - NEW NAME SAME HEART Sunday, November 3, 2019 for the High School (Gr 9-12) at 555 West Hartsdale Avenue Hartsdale NY. Sunday; November 10, 2019 for the lower school (Gr K-5) at 30 Dellwood Rd White Plains NY; Sunday, December 8, 2019 for the Middle School (Gr 6-8) at 555 West Hartsdale Avenue Hartsdale NY.
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NIGHT OF JEWISH LEARNING AND CELEBRATION Saturday, November 23, 2019 at 7:15pm (Registration from 7:00pm) at Beth El. Join the Westchester Board of Rabbis together with Westchester Jewish Council for 2 sessions of classes led by 30 Westchester Rabbis, including our own Rabbi Schuck and Rabbi Sitkin. An additional bonus session with Guest Speaker, Rabbi Ethan Tucker. Cost is $20 if register by November 8, or $25 after this date. Cost includes a dairy dessert. Please register by clicking here or by sending your check to Westchester Jewish Council, 925 Westchester Avenue, Suite 200, White Plains, NY 10604. Contact Donna Bartell at donna@wjccouncil.org or on 914-328-7001 for information. 

ONGOING ITEMS

AMAZON DONATIONS REQUESTED We have been preparing 68 Old Orchard for our Rabbinic Fellows, but we still need a few items and hope you can help. We would appreciate if you selected one (or more) items from the Amazon registry and purchased them, as a donation to Beth El. This will help us complete our efforts. Please put Beth El's address for shipping: 1324 North Avenue, New Rochelle, NY 10804. Thank you in advance. Please click here for the registry link.

NEED HELP LOGGING INTO YOUR BETH EL ONLINE ACCOUNT? For instructions on how to log into your Beth El account on a computer or a phone, including how to reset your password, go to www.bethelnr.org/logininstructions or contact Shayna Klopott (shayna.klopott@gmail.com) or Carrie Fox (csfox99@gmail.com) for assistance.

TORAH FUND PINS ARE IN! Please join with Beth El Sisterhood and Women’s League for Conservative Judaism in supporting the education of our future clergy, educators and community leaders. This year’s theme is Chesed and is depicted as a heart encased in ever-widening circles of generosity, from family to a greater world. Contact Janis DeMartini at jdemartini37@gmail.com or Barbara Horowitz at barbara.w.horowitz@gmail.com

MISHEBERACH LIST Any name added to the Misheberach list will be automatically removed after one month. If someone needs it to remain for another month they must reach out again to one of the clergy. 

SHABBAT DISCUSSION GROUP Selected Shabbatot at 10:15 a.m. in the library with Jack Gruenberg. 

TORAH AND HAFTARAH READERS WANTED! An initiative is underway to encourage broader participation in Haftorah reading during Shabbat services. Steven Cohen is overseeing this effort and will be reaching out to various groups over the coming weeks. All interested can sign up to read using the Beth El sign up link at  bethelnr.org/torahsignup  and contact Steven (scohen@kanekessler.com) or Cantor Aqua (uaqua@bethelnr.org) with any requests for assistance. Special request to contact Steven or Cantor Aqua is being made to those hesitant to read Haftorah because of their Hebrew or trope skills, as a program is being planned to provide support to those in this category.

TALMUD DAF SHEVUI STUDY SESSION every Shabbat at 12:30 p.m. in the library. New participants welcome.

WE WANT YOU Would you like to save a life? Would you like to help keep Beth El safe? We are looking for people with medical and/or emergency experience and knowledge (doctors, nurses, EMTs, firefighter, policemen, lifeguards, anyone willing to help.) We are starting a first responder team to help for Shabbat and Holidays. You won't have to sign up for dates, it's for when you are there and willing. If you are interested contact Abby Wise at awise@bethelnr.org.

ISRAELI FOLK DANCE WITH CANTOR AQUA  There is no class this week. 

YIDDISH VINKL Fridays 1:00pm at Beth El. Questions, please contact Bea Freedman on 914 337 8645
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CARD ROOM Play Canasta on Mondays at 12:45pm, and Mah Jongg on Tuesdays at 12:45pm. Contact Arlene Salman at aesalman@aol.com or 914-235-2485.

ZUMBA Next class is Sunday, October 27, from 9:30-10:30 a.m, $10 cash. Located in the Beth El Youth Lounge. It’s a fun exercise class, no prior experience needed! For information or to be added to the Zumba email list, please contact Carrie Fox at csfox99@gmail.com.  

GET SMART GET FIT! Wednesday Mornings, 10:30am - 11:30am
Wear comfortable clothes and sneakers. This program is free of charge and no RSVP is needed. Donations are always appreciated. Put on your silver sneakers and join the fun! First session is November 6 - Balance with Tim.

BEST DAYS EVER! BETH EL SUMMER CAMP Sign up now for summer 2020!
For children aged 2-9 years. Camp runs from Monday, June 29, 2020 - Thursday, August 20, 2020. For a tour or questions, contact Julie Rockowitz at jrockowitz@bethelnr.org or on 914.235.2700, x256.

* Please note, certain ongoing Beth El programs, initiatives, and items usually included in Shabbat Announcements, can be found at www.bethelnr.org/ongoing.

An archive of all of our "El" newsletter and Shabbat Announcements can be found at bethelnr.org/announcements.

Click here ​​​​​for our full calendar of programs.

Friday, October 18, 2019 • 19 Tishri 5780
5:53pm Candle Lighting
6:10pm Mincha/Maariv 

Saturday, October 19, 2019 • 20 Tishri 5780 
Torah Reading for Hol Hamoed Sukkot 
Shemot Exodus 33:12-34:26
Bamidbar Numbers 29:26 -31
Haftorah Ezekiel 38:18-39:16 

HOL HAMOED SUKKOT 
9:00am Shabbat Morning Services (Main Sanctuary)
9:30am Shabbat Space (Board Room)
10:15am Pre-Service Oneg Shabbat (Board Room)
10:45am Family Kehillah Service (Goldberger Chapel)
10:45am Tot Shabbat (Levenson Chapel)
11:00am Kavannah, Mindfulness and Contemplation (Youth Lounge) 
Service led by Jack Klebanow. Join us for an hour of mindfulness, meditation, intentional study, silence, singing and prayer. This time is a gift for yourself.
12:00 noon Stand Up Kiddush - Light refreshments in the Sukkah 
12:30pm Daf Shevui (Library)
Following Services, Sukkah Walk 
A progressive, pot luck, community lunch. Participants will stroll from Beth El to homes (and sukkahs) of three congregants. We will have appetizers in one, lunch in the next, and dessert in the last. Advanced registration requested at www.bethelnr.org/sukkahwalk 
5:50pm Mincha/Maariv
6:51​​​​​​​pm Havdalah 

The Kiddush is sponsored by Beth El Synagogue Center. 

The following people are assisting on Shabbat:
Nina Luban and Talia Swartz Nagar, Ushers;  Lauren Freeman Bosworth, Gabbai;
Mark Seidenfeld, Officer Chair; Lisa Patchen and Dori Graff, Greeters.

Thank you to our Torah and Haftorah Readers :
Mark Silver, Joe Shammas, Cantor Aqua and Sol Haber.

Thank you to the volunteer kiddush committee - the people who come before services to prepare kiddush, those who set up the kiddush during services, and those who stay after kiddush to clean up. Please contact Barbara Horowitz  if you would like to come one shabbat and help. 

MAZAL TOV, REFUAH SHLEIMAH, CONDOLENCES

Mazal tov to Michael and Linda Goldstein on the birth of their first grandchild, Helen Leora  and to parents, Stephen Goldstein and Jaclyn Solomont. 

​​​​​​​Those marking a simcha, observing the loss of a loved one, or who is sick or recovering from an illness have delighted/comforted that their lifecycle event has inspired generosity. If you would like to make a donation to Beth El in honor or in memory, please click here.

CHAGIM SERVICES INFORMATION

Hoshanah Rabah | Sunday, October 20 | 21 Tishri 5780
8:00 a.m. | Shacharit | Whipping of the Willows 
5:50 p.m. | Mincha/Maariv

Shemini Atzeret | Monday, October 21 | 22 Tishri 5780
6:30 a.m. | Early Morning (Hashkamah) Minyan (Yizkor)
9:00 am | Shemini Atzeret Services (Yizkor)
9:00 a.m. | Shabbat Space 
10:15 a.m. | Pre-Service Oneg Shabbat
10:45 a.m. | Tot Shabbat 
10:45 a.m. | Family Kehillah Services 
12:00 p.m. | Sit Down Kiddush Lunch 
5:30 p.m. | Youth and Family Simchat Torah: Horah with the Torah
Please join us for a special youth hakafot with Rabbinic Fellow, Jessica Fisher, beginning with dinner and 7 rounds of dancing and singing led by different Beth El families.   
5:50 p.m. | Mincha/Shiur
6:50 p.m. | Maariv
7:00 p.m. | Simchat Torah Celebration
Please join us to dance with all our Beth El Torahs accompanied by special A Capella singers from the Shalom Orchestra.
7:18 p.m. | Candlelighting 

The following people are assisting on Shemini Atzeret:
Mark Seidenfeld and Marc Klee, Ushers; Susan Solow Dubin, Gabbai;
David Lacher, Officer Chair; Elissa Glickman, Greeters.

Thank you to our Torah and Haftorah Readers: 
Jason Friedland, Asher Friedland and Gary Claar. 

Following services, there will be a sit down Kiddush lunch sponsored by Lois and Gary Claar and family in honor of the 40th Anniversary of Gary's Bar Mitzvah. 

Simchat Torah | Tuesday, October 22, 2019 | 23 Tishri 5780
9:00 a.m. | Simchat Torah Services. Please join us to celebrate with our Honorees.
9:00 a.m. | Shabbat SPACE 
10:15 a.m. | Pre-Service Oneg Shabbat 
10:45 a.m. | Tot Shabbat
10:45 a.m. | Family Kehillah Services   
12:30 p.m. | Simchat Torah Luncheon
5:50 p.m. | Mincha/Shiur/Maariv
6:47 p.m. | Havdalah

The following people are assisting on Simchat Torah:
Erica Epstein and Edward Schwartz, Ushers; Michael Wechsler, Gabbai;
David Shechter, Officer Chair; Rita Kaufman and Lori Schwartz, Greeters.

Thank you to our Torah and Haftorah Readers: 
Alan Kellman, David Lacher, Robyn Yairi, Cantor Aqua, Eitan Gotian
Daniel Patchen, Allison Kessler, Mark Silver, Shayna Kloppot and Jacqueline Spiegel Cohen.   

Mazal Tov and thank you to our Simchat Torah Honorees: 
​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Steven Silverman - Hatan Breishit; Rise Stern - Kallat Torah; Lisa Mandelker - Kallat Kol Han'arim; Shayna Kloppot - Kallat Maftir. 

Following services, there will be a sit down kiddush lunch sponsored by Beth El Synagogue Center in honor of our Simchat Torah Honorees. 

Please click here ​​​​​​​for the most recent Shofar Blast. 

MINYAN TIMES
Wednesday 7:00 a.m. Shacharit; 5:50 p.m Mincha/Maariv 
Thursday 6:55 a.m. Shacharit; 5:50 p.m. Mincha/Maariv
Friday 7:00 a.m. Shacharit; 5:50 p.m. Mincha/Maariv

D'var Torah: Drawing from the Wells
Rabbi Shoshana Cohen, Conservative Yeshiva Faculty

The end of the Mishna in Sukkah (5:1-4) describes the Simchat Beit HaShoeva, the festival took place in the Temple during the holiday of Sukkot. It is described as a huge party, people dancing and singing all over the Azara, the part of the Temple accessible to non-priests. So many torches were lit in the Temple that the outermost reaches of Jerusalem were illuminated. Priests and Levites blew shofars and played background music; rabbis performed crazy juggling acts with lighted torches. The Temple was filled with such revelry that they needed to create special structures to keep the women and men separate. As the Mishna sums it up "one who has never seen Simchat Beit HaShoeva has never seen joy in their lives." But what exactly is being celebrated here? What lies behind this religiously-sanctioned (even strongly encouraged) crazy party in the Temple in which boundaries between holy and profane, male and female, sage and layperson, priest and Israelite are blurred?

In the mishna in Sukkah directly before the one describing the party (4:9) there is a description of the nisuch hamayim, the special water offering that is poured on the altar that also took place during Sukkot. And the Hebrew root of Shoeva, shin-aleph-vet, means to draw. Taken together, it would appear that the Simchat Beit HaShoeva, as Rashi and other explain, is really a festival of water-drawing. To support this explanation Rashi brings the famous verse is Isaiah 12, "u'sh'avtem mayim b'sasson / you shall draw water in joy." Coming as it does after the completion of the previous year's harvest, Sukkot is a time, particularly in the Land of Israel, when water - rain in particular - starts to become a central concern. By living in sukkot we act out our physical vulnerability and place ourselves at the mercy of the heavens. Via the nisuch hamayim and the Simchat Beit HaShoeva, we joyfully pour out this precious resource on the altar in the hope that God, too, will freely and joyfully provide rain and ensure our physical sustenance.
There are, however, a couple problems with this reading of Simchat Beit HaShoeva. First, the use of the word beit (house or structure) is a little strange here. The drawing of the water for the nisuch hamayim takes place outside, at the Shiloach pool, not in any building or structure. So there is no literal "Beit HaShoeva." Additionally, in the description of the Simchat Beit HaShoeva itself there are torches and fire but no actual water. But what of the verse in Isaiah 12,, "u'sh'avtem mayim b'sasson / you shall draw water in joy?" The larger context of the verse suggests that we not understand "water" literally:
(3) Therefore with joy you shall draw water out of the wells of salvation. (4) And in that day shall ye say: 'Give thanks unto the LORD, proclaim His name, Declare His doings among the peoples.... (5) Sing unto the LORD; for He has done gloriously; This is made known in all the earth. (6) Cry aloud and shout, you inhabitant of Zion, For great is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of you.'
If we read on we can see that this is a reference not to physical water-drawing but the spiritual water-drawing that will take place at a time of redemption. God's word will flow like water. As the Jerusalem Talmud explains (Sukkah 5a):
Why was its name "Beit HaShoeva" (The House of Drawing)? For it was from there that they drew the divine spirit (ruach hakodesh) named after (the verse in Isaiah) - "you will draw water in joy from the waters of redemption"... That is to tell you that the divine spirit only rests on those who are happy.
The drawing here is not of physical water but of spiritual sustenance, ruach hakodesh, and the "house" is not the location of the nisuch hamayim but the whole Temple. In this case the festivities in the Temple are about enjoying intimacy with the divine and creating the conditions necessary to experience revelation.
Throughout the month of Elul we have been saying in Psalm 27 several times a day, "one thing I have asked from the Lord, it is this I will request, to sit in the house of God all the days of my life, to gaze upon the glory of God and the visit God's sanctuary." The journey towards closeness and intimacy with God that started in Elul, that went through the awe of Rosh Hashana, that sent the High Priest alone into the Holy of Holies on Yom Kippur, comes to a joyful and ecstatic culmination on Sukkot where we party, with each other and with God, in that very sanctuary where we wish to dwell all the days of our lives.

Would you like to see your event featured in the Shabbat Announcements?
To have your announcement included in the Shabbat Announcement email

please paste it into this Google Document. All submissions must be in by Thursday at noon to make it into the week's announcements.

For more information about this transition, please visit bethelnr.org/marketing.

BESC FEATURED ANNOUNCEMENTS
Please follow us: Facebook.com/bethelsynagoguecenter and spread the word about news, events, and information by “liking” or “sharing!” 

#SHOWUPFORSHABBAT In solidarity for the year anniversary of the Pittsburgh shooting, the AJC calls on you to attend synagogue services on Friday, October 25 and Saturday, October 26 in memory of the victims and to stand up against anti semitism. For more information, please click here .
 
SISTERHOOD BAGELS AND BOOKS Monday, October 28, 9:30am. Please join us for bagels, coffee and discussion of The World Without You, by  Joshua Henkin. Questions? Contact Arlene Salman at aesalman@aol.com or 914-235-2485.

RETURN OF S.M.A.R.T Tuesday, November 5th.  Please join our first Senior Mature Adults Retired Together for coffee at 10:00am, followed by author and New Rochelle resident, Pamela Hull, who will speak on her book Moments That Mattered. Stay for a free dairy lunch! RSVP to jrockowitz@bethelnr.org or call with questions, 914.235.2700 x 256.

SISTERHOOD AND THE SYMPHONY OF WESTCHESTER Saturday, November 9 at 8:00pm. Cost is $40. Join the Sisterhood at Iona College for an evening of Beethoven Music with guest Israeli classical pianist, Alon Goldstein. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are available now. Contact Carole Graham 914-576-6617 or carolegraham@optonline.net.

NEW ART EXHIBIT FOR THE BETH EL MUSEUM Thursday, November 21st,  7:00pm - 9:00pm. Artist Laura Lapin presents “Some Place Like Home” in our Kanner-Kurzon Museum now through the end of November. Please join us for an Artist's reception to view the artwork and enjoy some wine and cheese.  

SPIRITUAL PRACTICES
​​​​​​​​
NIGGUN HALEV Saturday, October 26 at 9:00 a.m. Special music-filled Shabbat morning service - come early and sing and pray together.

MELAVEH MALKAH Saturday, November 9 at 7:30-9:30 pm at the home of Lauren Freeman-Bosworth and Brian Bosworth. Address provided on RSVP. Please join Rabbi Schuck, Rabbi Sitkin, Jack Klebanow and special musical guests for a soulful evening of singing as a community. All are welcome. Please RSVP to bethelnr.org/MelavehMalkahNov2019

FAMILY TRIP TO ISRAEL
AUGUST 25 - SEPTEMBER 4 2020                                   

Led by Rabbi David Schuck, join us to explore the wonders of Jerusalem, museum tours, scavenger hunts, visiting memorials, archaeological digs, floating in the dead sea, learning from scholars and much more. 
To view the full itinerary, cost and information on registration for the trip, visit  https://daattravel.com/bethelNR2020

Mark your calendars for an off the beaten track trip to Israel on April 11-21 2021, also led by Rabbi Schuck. Further information to be released later in the year.

DEPARTMENT OF YOUTH AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT
​
BRING HOME CHALLAH FOR SHABBAT Would you like delicious, fresh challah each week? Beth El Religious School Parent Organization's popular fundraiser is back. Challah will be delivered to Beth El Synagogue Center for 26 weeks. You can collect your challah at any point before Friday evening - if you have a child in the Religious School, the challah will be sent home with them!  Order today at  bethelnr.org/rschallah .

INTERESTED IN SHEVET FOR 9TH GRADE BOYS? Reach out to Andrew Van Bochove at usy@bethelnr.org. 

KADIMA SICHA Saturday, October 19, 10:30 am -12:00 pm followed by Kiddush Lunch. Join Stephanie for a fun conversation during services. Snacks provided.  Fun guaranteed!  Questions? Contact Stephanie: slederman@bethelnr.org.  Open to all 6th-8th graders.

THE PETTING ZOO IS COMING TO TOWN Sunday, October 27, 2019 - Ruach (Grades K-2 ): 11:00 am-12:15 pm & Chaverim (Grades 3- 5): 12:00-1:15 pm. Come meet the animals in honor of Parshat Noach - goats, chickens, bunnies and more, right here at Beth El! Pizza provided to all at 12:00 pm. $10 per child before October 24 & $15 afterwards. Walk Ins Welcome. Register by Thursday, October 24 at  www.bethelnr.org/pettingzoo19 . Questions? Contact Stephanie: slederman@bethelnr.org.

FOR PARENTS:

GAME NIGHT IN THE SUKKAH Saturday, October 19, 2019, 8:00 pm at the Beth El Sukkah. A social evening for all parents. Bring your favorite kosher wine or beer! Light refreshments served. $10 if you RSVP before October 14, $15 afterwards. Register at  www.bethelnr.org/sukkahnight . Questions? Contact Lisa Mandelker: lisagolda@aol.com. Sponsored by the Religious School Parent Organization.

PAINTBALL Sunday, October 20, 2019, 9:00am-1:30 pm at Liberty Paintball. Join in on the fun! This is an Adults Only Event supporting the Religious School Parent Organization. OPEN TO ALL ADULTS. $70 per person includes admission and all rental equipment necessary. Located at 50 Thunder Ridge Road, Paterson, NY.  Register at  www.bethelnr.org/paintball2019 . Questions? Contact Larry Mandelker: larrymandelker@yahoo.com.

WHEREVER WE STAND, WE STAND WITH ISRAEL

​​​​​​​Beth El's Israel Affairs Committee would like to share interesting and exciting news regarding the week's developments in business, culture, technology, agriculture, sports, and the environment in Israel. 

Israel is Sending its Biggest Delegation Ever to the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo
Survey: Nearly a Quarter of Israeli Seniors Struggle to Get By

LIMMUD, LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES & COMMUNITY EVENTS

ISRAELI JUDAISM WITH RABBI MOLLY KARP Class dates: 10/23, 10/30,11/6, 11/13,11/20,11/27,12/4,12/11,and 12/18 from 9:30 - 11:30am. The book Israeli Judaism, by Rosner and Fuchs, explores Israeli Jewishness.  Drop-in rate, $35, includes classes only. For questions, contact rabbimollykarp@gmail.com.

JEWISH LITERATURE FOCUS ON SHORT STORIES Remaining Mondays are  10/28, and 11/4 through 12/2 at 10:00am-12:15pm. Please join us at Beth El for six sessions devoted to short stories written by contemporary Israeli authors and then four sessions on Classic Yiddish short stories. Classes are led by Dr. Eleanor Ehrenkranz. To register visit www.bethelnr.org/stories.  

CARMEL ACADEMY OPEN HOUSE Sunday, October 27th from 10:00am to 12:00pm.  Learn about our individualized whole-child approach, rigorous and award-winning curriculum and enrichment opportunities. Attend an array of "mini classes" led by our faculty, tour our idyllic 17-acre campus and explore social/emotional learning during a brief panel discussion. Engaging games & activities provided for accompanying children! Register now at www.carmelacademy.com. 

ULPAN HEBREW CLASSES  Class Dates:10/30, 11/13, 11/20,12/4, 12/11,12/18. Beginners 6:30-7:30pm; Intermediate 7:30-8:30pm; Advanced 8:30-9:30pm. Cost is $165 for all classes. Contact Miri at miriulpan@gmail.com or 914-602-503. 

CANTILLATION CLASS Wednesday, October 30 at 8:00pm. Taught by Shari Chinitz, and focusing on the trope for reading the two Megillot. Please register at  bethelnr.org/cantillation. For more information, contact Shari on 914-576-2768 or at sharichinitz@gmail.com. 

THE WISDOM OF OZ Autobiographical, literary and political writings in memory of Amos Oz. Thursdays 10/31,11/7,11/14,11/21,12/5 and 12/12. 9:30-10:30am taught by Dr Carol Diament and 10:45am-12 noon by Rabbi David Schuck. Cost to Beth El Members $65| Non members $100. For information on pre class reading and to register although walk ins also welcome, please visit bethelnr.org/oz 

THE LEFFELL SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE - NEW NAME SAME HEART Sunday, November 3, 2019 for the High School (Gr 9-12) at 555 West Hartsdale Avenue Hartsdale NY. Sunday; November 10, 2019 for the lower school (Gr K-5) at 30 Dellwood Rd White Plains NY; Sunday, December 8, 2019 for the Middle School (Gr 6-8) at 555 West Hartsdale Avenue Hartsdale NY.
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NIGHT OF JEWISH LEARNING AND CELEBRATION Saturday, November 23, 2019 at 7:15pm (Registration from 7:00pm) at Beth El. Join the Westchester Board of Rabbis together with Westchester Jewish Council for 2 sessions of classes led by 30 Westchester Rabbis, including our own Rabbi Schuck and Rabbi Sitkin. An additional bonus session with Guest Speaker, Rabbi Ethan Tucker. Cost is $20 if register by November 8, or $25 after this date. Cost includes a dairy dessert. Please register by clicking here or by sending your check to Westchester Jewish Council, 925 Westchester Avenue, Suite 200, White Plains, NY 10604. Contact Donna Bartell at donna@wjccouncil.org or on 914-328-7001 for information. 

ONGOING ITEMS

LOST COAT Please check and see if you picked up a tan polo trench coat and left a Burberry coat behind last week. If so, please contact Jack Renick on 914-772-2982

AMAZON DONATIONS REQUESTED We have been preparing 68 Old Orchard for our Rabbinic Fellows, but we still need a few items and hope you can help. We would appreciate if you selected one (or more) items from the Amazon registry and purchased them, as a donation to Beth El. This will help us complete our efforts. Please put Beth El's address for shipping: 1324 North Avenue, New Rochelle, NY 10804. Thank you in advance. Please click here for the registry link.

NEED HELP LOGGING INTO YOUR BETH EL ONLINE ACCOUNT? For instructions on how to log into your Beth El account on a computer or a phone, including how to reset your password, go to www.bethelnr.org/logininstructions or contact Shayna Klopott (shayna.klopott@gmail.com) or Carrie Fox (csfox99@gmail.com) for assistance.

TORAH FUND PINS ARE IN! Please join with Beth El Sisterhood and Women’s League for Conservative Judaism in supporting the education of our future clergy, educators and community leaders. This year’s theme is Chesed and is depicted as a heart encased in ever-widening circles of generosity, from family to a greater world. Contact Janis DeMartini at jdemartini37@gmail.com or Barbara Horowitz at barbara.w.horowitz@gmail.com

MISHEBERACH LIST Any name added to the Misheberach list will be automatically removed after one month. If someone needs it to remain for another month they must reach out again to one of the clergy. 

SHABBAT DISCUSSION GROUP Selected Shabbatot at 10:15 a.m. in the library with Jack Gruenberg. 

TORAH AND HAFTARAH READERS WANTED! If you are interested, please visit our online sign up sheet at bethelnr.org/torahsignup ​​​​​​If you have any questions, please contact Cantor Aqua at uaqua@bethelnr.org or Alan Kellman at alan@twoals.com.

TALMUD DAF SHEVUI STUDY SESSION every Shabbat at 12:30 p.m. in the library. New participants welcome.

WE WANT YOU Would you like to save a life? Would you like to help keep Beth El safe? We are looking for people with medical and/or emergency experience and knowledge (doctors, nurses, EMTs, firefighter, policemen, lifeguards, anyone willing to help.) We are starting a first responder team to help for Shabbat and Holidays. You won't have to sign up for dates, it's for when you are there and willing. If you are interested contact Abby Wise at awise@bethelnr.org.

ISRAELI FOLK DANCE WITH CANTOR AQUA  Sundays, 10:00 a.m. Join us for great exercise and beautiful music. No experience required. For more information contact Cantor Aqua at uaqua@bethelnr.org.  

YIDDISH VINKL Fridays 1:00pm at Beth El. Questions, please contact Bea Freedman on 914 337 8645
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CARD ROOM Play Canasta on Mondays at 12:45pm, and Mah Jongg on Tuesdays at 12:45pm. Sessions resume after the holidays. Contact Arlene Salman at aesalman@aol.com or 914-235-2485.

ZUMBA Next class is Sunday, October 20, from 9:30-10:30 a.m, $10 cash. Located in the Beth El Youth Lounge. It’s a fun exercise class, no prior experience needed! For information or to be added to the Zumba email list, please contact Carrie Fox at csfox99@gmail.com.  

GET SMART GET FIT! Wednesday Mornings, 10:30am - 11:30am
Wear comfortable clothes and sneakers. This program is free of charge and no RSVP is needed. Donations are always appreciated. Put on your silver sneakers and join the fun! First session is November 6 - Balance with Tim.

BEST DAYS EVER! BETH EL SUMMER CAMP Sign up now for summer 2020!
For children aged 2-9 years. Camp runs from Monday, June 29, 2020 - Thursday, August 20, 2020. For a tour or questions, contact Julie Rockowitz at jrockowitz@bethelnr.org or on 914.235.2700, x256.

* Please note, certain ongoing Beth El programs, initiatives, and items usually included in Shabbat Announcements, can be found at www.bethelnr.org/ongoing.

An archive of all of our "El" newsletter and Shabbat Announcements can be found at bethelnr.org/announcements.

Click here ​​​​​for our full calendar of programs.