Announcements

Friday, November 16, 2018 •  8 Kislev 5779
4:18pm Candle Lighting
4:20pm Mincha/Maariv

Saturday, November 17, 2018  •  9 Kislev 5779 

Parashat Vayetzei 28:10-32:3 pp. 166-187
Hosea 12:13-14:10 pp. 189-193

Kayla Roth Bat Mitzvah
Chai House Visits | Teen Service
9:00am Shabbat Morning Services (Main Sanctuary)
10:15am Shabbat Discussion Group (Library)
10:15am Pre-Service Oneg Shabbat (Board Room)
10:45am Family Kehillah Services (Goldberger Chapel)
10:45am Torah for Tots (Levenson Chapel)
12:00noon Kiddush (Fayer Ballroom)
12:30pm Daf Shevui (Library)
12:30pm Open Beit Midrash - For Parents
4:20pm Mincha/Maariv (Goldberger Chapel)
5:17pm Havdalah

The Kiddush is sponsored by Stephanie and Bradley Roth in honor of the bat mitzvah of their daughter, Kayla Roth and by
Jayne and Darren Peister, Shery and Howard Rosenstein and Shirin and Steven Stein in honor of their 25th wedding anniversaries.

The following people are assisting on Shabbat:
Adam Cooper and Michael Meisler, Ushers; Steve Young, Gabbai;
Russ Fayer, President's Chair; Lauren Freeman-Bosworth, Vice President's Chair; Carrie Fox, Greeter.

MAZAL TOV, REFUAH SHLEIMAH, CONDOLENCES
Mazal Tov to Jack and Ellen Hollander on the birth of grandson Caleb Joseph, son of Brian and Jessica Hollander

Condolences to Marc Straussberg on the loss of his mother, Barrie Straussberg.

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; 4:20 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 8:00 a.m. Shacharit; 4:20 p.m. Mincha/Maariv
Friday 7:00 a.m. Shacharit; 4:20 p.m. Mincha/Maariv

A Word of Torah 
Parashat Vayetse Self-Study
Vered Hollander-Goldfarb, Conservative Yeshiva Faculty

In this parashah, as Yaakov leaves the country (he will return at the end of the parashah), he has a vision of a ladder with angels ascending and descending and is promised by God to receive the land of Israel. He arrives at his uncle Lavan (Laban), marries Lavan's 2 daughters and their 2 handmaids, and sires 12 children. He also proves to be a very knowledgeable and hard-working shepherd.

1) In this parashah, Yaakov takes his first steps as a patriarch. In the process, he leaves his country, and potentially the connection to his family. Compare him to his father (Yitzhak) and grandfather (Avraham). What similarities and differences have you noticed? Why do you think that the Torah gave us different models of Patriarchs?

2) When Yaakov heads to Haran, the land of his uncle Lavan, the Torah tells us that he "leaves Beer Sheva", and only then are we told that he is heading to Haran (28:10). What does this extra information do for the story? What might it tell us about Yaakov at this point?

3) Arriving by the well in Haran (after a riveting dream in Beit El) Yaakov notices that several flocks are there waiting for everyone to gather to remove the big stone that covers the well. He tries to strike up a conversation with the shepherds, but they are not interested. He suggests that they water the sheep and get back to work. They explain that the stone is too big, but Yaakov removes it by himself when Rachel arrives (29:1-10). How do you think the shepherds felt about him at this point? What do the exchange and its content tell us about Yaakov?

4) Yaakov intends to marry Rachel, is cheated into marrying Leah her older sister, and ends up with 2 wives. Then we are told that God sees that Leah is despised, and so He opens her womb, but Rachel is barren (29:31). In this light, what is the role(s) of the children in this family? Where is Yaakov in this family picture?

5) After about 20 years of having worked for Lavan, his father in law, and having his pay changed time and again, Yaakov is told by God to leave. Despite that, he does not make the decision alone, but rather consults with his wives. He lists all the abuse he has suffered from Lavan (31:3-16). Why do you think that he feels a need to explain that? What might Yaakov fear?

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!”

RABBI SCHUCK WANTS TO TRAVEL TO ISRAEL WITH YOU! Trips being considered include a "First Timer Trip" or an "Off the Beaten Path" trip, for those that have been to Israel before and are looking for something 'different'. If you might be interested in a trip, please complete this short form to let us know your availability and what trip you would be interested in.  More detailed descriptions of the trips are included on the form.

CASINO NIGHT Saturday, November 17, 7:30 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. Enjoy an evening of Poker, Craps, Roulette, and Black Jack. Tickets are $45 per person. No experience necessary. Please RSVP at bethelnr.org/casinonight.

BUILDING BRIDGES OF PEACE THROUGH HEALTHCARE Sunday, November 18 at 9:15 a.m. Join us at Beth El for a special event where Dr. Akram Armo, PhD and Dr. Sagit Arbel-Alon, M.D. will discuss their cooperative work that is saving lives, developing Palestinian healthcare capacity, and building bridges to peace. This will be a panel moderated by Kenneth Bob, chair of Project Rozana USA, that works to bridge understanding between Israelis and Palestinians through healthcare.

A LITTLE AFTERNOON MUSIC: LIVE CONCERT  Sunday, November 18, 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. Join us for a varied woodwind chamber music played by members of the Lesbian and Gay Big Apple Corps Symphonic Band. Founded in 1979 to provide the LGBTQ community with a supportive and friendly environment for musical and artistic expression, the music will range from Bizet’s Carmen to Beethoven’s Ode to Joy presented in unique arrangements. $10/person • No charge to anyone with a November birthday. Light Refreshments to follow. Co-Sponsored by the Brandeis National Women’s Committee.  RSVP is a must! Contact Julie Rockowitz at jrockowitz@bethelnr.org or 915.235.2700 ext. 256

COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING SERVICE AND RECEPTION Thursday, November 22, 9:00 a.m. at New Rochelle United Methodist Church, 1200 North Avenue, New Rochelle. Sponsored by the Interreligious Council of New Rochelle benefiting food programs in the city, featuring Rabbi Zachary Sitkin as the speaker. All are welcome.  

OPEN BEIT MIDRASH SCHOLAR Tuesday, November 27. The evening will begin with drinks and food at 7:30 p.m. followed by guest scholar Dr. Devora Steinmetz at 8:00 p.m. Dr. Steinmetz serves on the leadership team for special programs at Drisha in the United States and Israel. She will be speaking on the topic, “Darkness Will Envelop Me:Hanukkah and the Winter Solstice in Rabbinic Texts” The evening will be sponsored by Elise and Barry Richman in memory of Barry's Father, Israel David Richman. For more information on our Open Beit Midrash go to bethelnr.org/openbeit .

POST KIDDUSH TALK Saturday, December 1 in the Wiener Lounge. Fardeen Ghafoor and his family will meet with the congregation after Kiddush. Ghafoor and his family arried in the U.S. last November as immigrants from Afghanistan. You will hear Fardeen's story and he will be answering any questions about his and his family's experience.

MELAVEH MALKAH December 1, 7 p.m. Save the date and join Rabbi Schuck, Rabbi Sitkin, Jack Klebanow and Rabbinic Intern Sam Blustin. Details to follow.

MENS CLUB BLOOD DRIVE Sunday, December 2 8:30 a.m-12:30 p.m. Please participate in what is potentially a lifesaving mitzvah. To register and for more information, please visit bethelnr.org/blooddrive. Registration not required. Walk-ins welcome! Questions? Call the office or email BENRblooddrive@gmail.com

COMEDY NIGHT Saturday, December 8, doors open at 8:00 p.m., show begins at 9:00 p.m. Drink, nosh & laugh your tuchus off at this fun night out at Beth El!  Early bird pricing is $40 per person until November 30 and will go up to $45 per person after this date. Please RSVP at bethelnr.org/comedynight . Questions? Contact Donna Bartell at donnabartell@verizon.net.

WHERE 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. 
October 2018 was best ever month for Israel’s tourism industry
First self-driving cars coming to Israeli roads in 2019

LIMMUD, LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES, & COMMUNITY EVENTS

PELHAM PICTURE HOUSE Sunday, November 18, 7:30 p.m. at 175 Wolfs Lane, Pelham, N.Y.. The documentary film  “The Interpreters” is sponsored by the Westchester Refugee Initiative (WRI) and Hearts & Homes for Refugees (HHR). The film documents the lives of the men who provide mission support to U.S. Troops in Afghanistan and Iraq and the resulting risks they and their families face at the hands of insurgents who target them for their U.S. alliances. The filmmakers will be on hand to answer questions.

COFFEE@CARMEL Tuesday, November 27 or Tuesday, December 11th, 9:30am-10:30am. Would you like to learn more about Carmel Academy? Prospective families are invited to have coffee with Carmel Academy’s Head of School, Nora Anderson, to discuss educational trends, learn more about the school, and tour our historic, 17-acre Greenwich campus. A light breakfast and coffee will be served.. Please RSVP to www.carmelacademy.com/events or contact ella@carmelacademy.com/ 203-983-3503.

CHANUKAH MATH NIGHT AT CARMEL ACADEMY December 6, 5-6:30 p.m. at Carmel Academy, 270 Lake Avenue, Greenwich. Add yourself to the fun at Carmel Academy’s Chanukah Math Night! Prospective and current families are invited to a fun-filled, experiential Chanukah celebration.  Hands-on math activities for the whole family, followed by dinner and candle lighting. For children from preschool through 4th grade. There is no cost for this program, but please RSVP www.carmelacademy.com/events or contact ella@carmelacademy.com/ 203-983-3503.

UJA B’NAI MITZVAH PROJECTS  Turn your passion into purpose and help others through UJA-Federation’s Give a Mitzvah Do a Mitzvah program.  Take part in a volunteer and funding mitzvah project tailored for you in honor of becoming a bar or bat mitzvah.  Participants in GMDM can make an impact in New York, Israel or around the world. UJA will help you find a chesed project of your choosing to celebrate your bar/bat mitzvah and even put your own personalized web page on the UJA site for your family and friends to make supporting gifts.  Fully 100% of the funds raised will go to your chosen project. For more information or to schedule a meeting to explore options, please contact Donna Divon at 914 385 2130 or divond@ujafedny.org.  

SHORT TERM PLACE TO STAY NEEDED  Beth El congregants looking for furnished apartment/house for six weeks to two months, beginning December 7, 2018.  If you have a place, call 914-636-1819.

ONGOING ITEMS

RELIGIOUS SCHOOL REGISTRATION is open for the 2018-19 school year. Register at www.bethelnr.org/religiousschoolregistration.

NURSERY SCHOOL REGISTRATION is open for the 2018-19 school year. Register at www.bethelnurseryschool.org.

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.

EXERCISE CLASSES begin again starting Wednesday, November 7, at 10:30am. Come on over for a Balance class.

ZUMBA is most Sundays, 9:30-10:30 a.m., $10. It’s a fun exercise class, newcomers welcome! Classs will be held 11/18 and 12/16. No need to RSVP. For more information, please contact Carrie Fox at csfox99@gmail.com.

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.

CARD ROOM ​​​​​​​meets weekly, 12:45 p.m. Canasta on Mondays; Mah Jongg on Tuesdays. Questions? Contact Arlene Salman at aesalman@aol.com, or 914-235-2485.

2019 MAH JONGG CARDS orders must be placed by December 31, 2018 and will be mailed directly to you by the National Mah Jongg League. Order in our main office and contact Arlene Salman with questions.

* 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.

Dear Friends,

Beth El Religious School is cancelled today, November 15th, due to impending snow.  We follow the closure of the New Rochelle Schools, and they have cancelled their after school activities for today.

Stephanie Lederman, our Youth & Family Coordinator, will be at Beth El this afternoon, available to watch the children who end up getting bussed to Beth El.  We have asked the district to send the children home on their usual busses, though we recognize some may end up here instead.  There will be mini bagels and a movie for those who are here and we will call you immediately so you know where your child is and can pick them up.

Rosh Hodesh & Cub Scouts are also cancelled tonight. For those who have purchased challah, you can pick up your challah tomorrow in the Office of Youth and Family Engagement.  

Thank you and please stay safe.  We look forward to seeing you on Sunday morning! 

All the best,

Bekkah Gold
Interim Director of Youth & Family Engagement
Director of Teen Engagement
914-235-2700, ext. 221
rgold@bethelnr.org

Stephanie Lederman
Youth & Family Coordinator
914-235-2700, ext. 247
slederman@bethelnr.org
--

Wednesday, November 14 — 6 Kislev 5779

CASINO NIGHT

Saturday, November 17 from 7:30–11:00 p.m.

enjoy an evening of Poker, Craps, Roulette, and Black Jack.

Tickets are $45 per person. No experience necessary.

Open bar, sushi, raffles, online auction, snacks and more!

A Special Thank You to our Gold Sponsors:
Dream Clean Auto Spa, Setton Farms, and Signature Bank.

Please RSVP at bethelnr.org/casinonight.

BUILDING BRIDGES OF PEACE THROUGH HEALTHCARE

Sunday, November 18 at 9:15 a.m. join us at Beth El for a special event where

Dr. Akram Armo, PhD and Dr. Sagit Arbel-Alon, M.D. will discuss their cooperative work that is saving lives, developing Palestinian healthcare capacity, and building bridges to peace. This will be a panel moderated by Kenneth Bob, chair of Project Rozana USA, that works to bridge understanding between Israelis and Palestinians through healthcare.

OPEN BEIT MIDRASH SCHOLAR

The November Open Beit Midrash scholar will be on Tuesday, November 27.

The evening will begin with drinks and food at 7:30 p.m. followed by guest scholar
Dr. Devora Steinmetz at 8:00 p.m. Dr. Steinmetz serves on the leadership team

for special programs at Drisha in the United States and Israel. 

She will be speaking on the topic, “Darkness Will Envelop Me:

Hanukkah and the Winter Solstice in Rabbinic Texts”

The evening will be sponsored by Elise and Barry Richman in memory of

Barry's Father, Israel David Richman. 
For more information on our Open Beit Midrash and how to sponsor
an evening of learning, go to bethelnr.org/openbeit.

TURKEY DRIVE 2018

HOPE’s food pantry will be collecting money to provide turkeys to families

in our area that are in need. Rabbi David Schuck is a member of the

HOPE Board of Directors. Please contribute a check of $25 or more to this

great cause. Checks can be made payable to Beth El Synagogue Center

with HOPE TURKEY DRIVE in the memo line. Donations can be mailed to Beth El or dropped off in the Beth El office.This year you will be able to give thanks that you were able to help your neighbors celebrate as well!

COMEDY NIGHT

Saturday, December 8, doors open at 8:00 p.m., show begins at 9:00 p.m.
Drink, nosh & laugh your tuchus off at this fun night out at Beth El! 
Early bird pricing is $40 per person until November 30 and will go up to
$45 per person after this date. Please RSVP at bethelnr.org/comedynight . Questions? Contact Donna Bartell at donnabartell@verizon.net.

All Shabbat Announcements, Events and Notices are archived at bethelnr.org/announcements. 
​​​​​​​

Friday, November 9, 2018 •  1 Kislev 5779
4:24pm Candle Lighting
4:30pm Mincha/Maariv
6:30pm Libeinu: Heart and Soul Shabbat

Saturday, November 10, 2018  •  2 Kislev 5779 

Parashat Toldot Genesis 25:19-28:9 pp. 146-161
Malachi 1:1-2:7 pp. 163-165

Jacob Shechter Bar Mitzvah
Sam Blustin, Rabbinic Intern Visit | Veterans Shabbat | Birthday Shabbat
9:00am Shabbat Morning Services (Main Sanctuary)
10:15am Pre-Service Oneg Shabbat (Board Room)
10:45am Family Kehillah Services (Goldberger Chapel)
10:45am Torah for Tots (Levenson Chapel)
12:00noon Kiddush (Fayer Ballroom)
12:30pm Daf Shevui (Library)
12:45pm Post Kiddush Shiur (Wiener Lounge)
4:20pm Mincha/Maariv (Goldberger Chapel)
5:23pm Havdalah

The Kiddush is sponsored by Carrie Fox Shechter and David Shechter in honor of the Bar Mitzvah of their son Jacob Shechter.

The following people are assisting on Shabbat:
Nadine Jacobson and Jayne Peister, Ushers; Alan Legatt, Gabbai;
Steve Young, President's Chair; Dani Yairi, Vice President's Chair; Aaron Fleishaker and Steve Schwartz, Greeters. 

MAZAL TOV, REFUAH SHLEIMAH, CONDOLENCES
C​ondolences to Dava Yavetz on the passing of her father, Louis M. Yavetz.

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; 4:20 p.m. Mincha/Maariv 
Monday 8:00 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

A Word of Torah 
D'var Torah: To Lift One's Eyes
Tyler Dratch, Conservative Yeshiva & Hebrew College Rabbinical Student

"I lift my eyes to the mountains, from where will my help come from? My help will come from God, creator of the heavens and the earth. (Psalms 121:1-2)

What does it mean to "lift one's eyes?" A number of medical studies now tell us about the damage we are collectively doing to our backs and necks by spending so much time looking down at iPhones and tablets. But there is so much more we are missing when we do not look up.

When the psalmist looks up, they are looking, deeply and carefully, for God. This kind of looking enables one to see the divinity present in other people and the world in general. It brings with it the potential for redemption. This is not how the Pittsburgh shooter saw. By the time he entered the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, he was blinded by propaganda and rage, and blind to the humanity of people engaged in worship. When we fail to see the humanity of others, we power a destructive force that distances us from God, and disorders the world. As Jews, it is thus our obligation to look for God and to see others and the world, in their full complexity.

In our parashah, the ability and inability to see creates the central family crisis between Yitzhak, Rivka and their children Esav and Yaakov. Esav is famished after a long day of hunting in the field. When he asks Yaakov to share some of his food with him, he can only identify it as 'red stuff', not exactly sure what he is actually asking for. Yaakov decides that he will give Esav some of his lentil stew in exchange for the family birthright blessing.

Sforno, a 16th-century Italian commentator, notes that Yaakov feels justified in receiving the birthright from Esav because of this very lack of close 'seeing'. Sforno writes: "(Yaakov) saw that Esav was so totally absorbed in his futile occupation, an occupation which does not represent the task of man on earth, that he could not even identify the lentils by their name but referred to them only by their color..." Yaakov decides that a person who does not even see the world closely enough to identify a particular pot of food does not have the skills to carry on the family line. The exchange of the birthright becomes a test that will determine if Esav has the ability to see the world complexly. He fails that test and loses the birthright.

Yaakov does not only understand the high risk of not seeing, but also the revelatory power of truly witnessing the other. As his mother tries to encourage him to dress up as his brother Esav to steal, or perhaps rightfully receive the birthright that is now his, Yaakov is concerned that through his father's close intimacy he will perceive the truth. Yaakov worries: "If my father touches me, I shall appear to him (lit: in his eyes) as a trickster and bring upon myself a curse, not a blessing." (Genesis 27:12).

Ramban, a 13th-century commentator from Spain, explains that Yaakov could not have been literally worried about his father seeing him. After all, Yitzhak is blind! Instead, he teaches: "(What Yaakov really meant was) Maybe my father will touch me: [He wasn't worried that] the reason he would touch him would be to recognize him, but he said, "Maybe he will draw me close to him to kiss me or to put his hand on my face in the way that a father expresses love for his son, and he will find by touching that I am smooth." According to Ramban, Yaakov is concerned that his father's love for his sons will cause him to quickly discover the ruse and perhaps even curse him in place of a blessing.

In the end, Yitzhak will also not fully see. The birthright will go to Yaakov, and a perceived disunity between the two brothers will cause Yaakov to flee. Yitzhak will not live to see his sons reconcile.

The more we lose this ability to see, the more chaos we will encounter. May our Jewish response to the tragedy in Pittsburgh include a recommitment to a deep seeing of others. May our pain slowly transform into a deep love of humanity, for this is the force that will repair the world.

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!”

RABBI SCHUCK WANTS TO TRAVEL TO ISRAEL WITH YOU! Trips being considered include a "First Timer Trip" or an "Off the Beaten Path" trip, for those that have been to Israel before and are looking for something 'different'. If you might be interested in a trip, please complete this short form to let us know your availability and what trip you would be interested in.  More detailed descriptions of the trips are included on the form.

SISTERHOOD SYMPHONY OF WESTCHESTER EVENT Saturday, November 10, 8pm-10pm at Iona college. Join Beth El Sisterhood and the Symphony of Westchester to enjoy an evening of Romantic Music: Edward Elgar Cello Concerto featuring, Inbal Segar & Antonin Dvorak Symphony no. 9. Tickets must be purchased in advance. To purchase tickets and for more information, please contact Carole Graham at 914.576.6617 or carolegraham@optonline.net​​​​.

PROJECT HOPE Tuesday, November 13, 8:30 am in Beth El’s Dairy Kitchen. Help prepare a meal for the HOPE Soup Kitchen. All are welcome!  For questions, contact Barbara Engelson, BLE229@aol.com.

JEWS OF NORTHERN GREECE: THEN AND NOW Tuesday, November 13, 12:30–2:30 pm Sponsors: Hadassah, Beth El Sisterhood and Beth El’s SMART Group (Senior, Mature, Adult, Retired Together) Sharon Spenser connects the plight of the Jews in Northern Greece to the political and cultural history of the region over a number of centuries. Sharon, and her husband Peter, have travelled extensively throughout Europe. Don’t miss this enlightening talk. A light bite, with a Greek flavor will be served at 12:30pm. Program starts at 1:00pm. NO CHARGE! Donations accepted. Contact Julie Rockowitz at jrockowitz@bethelnr.org

OPEN BEIT MIDRASH This week's event is Tuesday, November 13. Join us on alternating Tuesdays and Thursdays for an evening of non-judgmental, thoughtful conversation. Enjoy refreshments at 7:30 p.m. Learning begins at 8:00 p.m. For more information or to sponsor an evening of learning, visit bethelnr.org/openbeit, or contact Rabbi Sitkin at zsitkin@bethelnr.org.

THE GRIPES OF ROTH Join Dr. Carol Diament and Rabbi David Schuck for The Gripes of Roth pairing Roth’s “Goodbye Columbus: And Five Short Stories” with rabbinic themes. Two sessions remain (November 15, 29) and run from 9:30am until noon. Register at bethelnr.org/roth.

SISTERHOOD SMART SHOPPING Friday, November 16. Join the Beth El Sisterhood at the Eastchester Lord & Taylor store for a day of shopping smart and doing good. Doors open at 9:00 a.m. $5 donations give you an admission ticket, two 25% off bonus coupons and a 15% savings pass (usable all day). Pre-Shopping begins on Friday, November 9 with a credit card only. Tickets can be purchased through member of the Sisterhood, through Alise or Marilyn in the office, or through Linda Resnick at costa48@yahoo.com.

CASINO NIGHT Saturday, November 17, 7:30pm-11:00pm. Enjoy an evening of Poker, Craps, Roulette, and Black Jack. Tickets are $45 per person. No experience necessary. Please RSVP at bethelnr.org/casinonight.

BUILDING BRIDGES OF PEACE THROUGH HEALTHCARE Sunday, November 18 at 9:15 a.m. Join us at Beth El for a special event where Dr. Akram Armo, PhD and Dr. Sagit Arbel-Alon, M.D. will discuss their cooperative work that is saving lives, developing Palestinian healthcare capacity, and building bridges to peace. This will be a panel moderated by Kenneth Bob, chair of Project Rozana USA, that works to bridge understanding between Israelis and Palestinians through healthcare.

A LITTLE AFTERNOON MUSIC: LIVE CONCERT  Sunday, November 18, 2:00 - 3:30 pm. Join us for a varied woodwind chamber music played by members of the Lesbian and Gay Big Apple Corps Symphonic Band. Founded in 1979 to provide the LGBTQ community with a supportive and friendly environment for musical and artistic expression, the music will range from Bizet’s Carmen to Beethoven’s Ode to Joy presented in unique arrangements. $10/person • No charge to anyone with a November birthday. Light Refreshments to follow. Co-Sponsored by the Brandeis National Women’s Committee.  RSVP is a must! Contact Julie Rockowitz at jrockowitz@bethelnr.org or 915.235.2700 ext. 256

POST KIDDUSH TALK Saturday, December 1 in the Wiener Lounge. Fardeen Ghafoor and his family will meet with the congregation after Kiddush. Ghafoor and his family arried in the U.S. last November as immigrants from Afghanistan. You will hear Fardeen's story and he will be answering any questions about his and his family's experience.

COMEDY NIGHT Saturday, December 8, doors open at 8:00 p.m., show begins at 9:00 p.m. Drink, nosh & laugh your tuchus off at this fun night out at Beth El!  Early bird pricing is $40 per person until November 30 and will go up to $45 per person after this date. Please RSVP at bethelnr.org/comedynight . Questions? Contact Donna Bartell at donnabartell@verizon.net.

WHERE 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. 
In Jerusalem, new envoys from Cairo and Amman recommit to peace with Israel
Bon Jovi to Perform in Tel Aviv Next July, Ed Sheeran in Advanced Talks

LIMMUD, LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES, & COMMUNITY EVENTS

SCHECHTER WESTCHESTER OPEN HOUSE Sunday, November 11, 10am. Schechter Westchester invites all 3 and 4 year olds and their parents to enjoy our Kindergarten Open House. Children can enjoy their own activities led by our kindergarten, PE, and music teachers while parents are attending informational sessions led by our Heads of School, Lower School Leadership Team, teachers, parents and students. Learn about our innovative project-based education. Experience our STEAM curriculum. Understand the value of a Schechter Westchester education. We all will enjoy a hot brunch together at the end.
Please RSVP to Diana Schutt at LSAdmissions@schechterwestchester.org or call (914) 948-3111 ext.4370.

NECHAMA PRICE Sunday, November 11, 8:00 pm at Young Israel of New Rochelle. Price, Senior Lecturer Bible and Judaic Studies Department, Stern College, Yeshiva University, will present Villains in Tanach: Are They Really So Evil? Esav and Yishmael The lecture, sponsored by the Women's Initiative for Jewish Studies, is free and open to women and men. Visit www.yinr.org/wijs to view the complete WIJS schedule or email wijs@yinr.org for more information.

THE BROTHER JOHN G. DRISCOLL PROFESSORSHIP IN JEWISH-CATHOLIC STUDIES AT IONA COLLEGE will be hosting a Kristallnacht Commemoration entitled We Are in this World to Do Good: Ethics During and After the Holocaust with Dr. John K. Roth on Monday, November 12 at 7:30pm. For more information, contact Dr. Procario-Foley at (914) 637-2744 or eprocariofoley@iona.edu. All events are free and open to the public.

AJC THANKSGIVING DIVERSITY BREAKFAST Thursday, November 15, 7:30 a.m., at Manhattanville College. The Breakfast brings together hundreds of faith and ethnic leaders from across the region to celebrate our diversity.  It was begun in response to the horrific events of September 11, 2001, and we are pleased to report that attendance grows and becomes more diverse each year. Beth El Synagogue Center is a community partner of the event. More information is available at www.ajc.org/westchester. Registration required.

ANNIVERSARY AND CELEBRATION Thursday, November 15, 7 p.m. at Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation White Plains. Please celebrate with us both the one year anniversary of the Ghafoor’s arriving  in the U.S. and all of our volunteers that have worked so hard to make the family welcomed.

TURKEY DRIVE 2018 HOPE’s food pantry will be collecting money to provide turkeys to families in our area that are in need. Rabbi David Schuck is a member of the HOPE Board of Directors. Please contribute a check of $25 or more to this
great cause. Checks can be made payable to Beth El Synagogue Center with HOPE TURKEY DRIVE in the memo line. Donations can be mailed to Beth El or dropped off in the Beth El office.This year you will be able to give thanks that you were able to help your neighbors celebrate as well!

PELHAM PICTURE HOUSE Sunday, November 18, 7:30 p.m. at 175 Wolfs Lane, Pelham, N.Y.. The documentary film  “The Interpreters” is sponsored by the Westchester Refugee Initiative (WRI) and Hearts & Homes for Refugees (HHR). The film documents the lives of the men who provide mission support to U.S. Troops in Afghanistan and Iraq and the resulting risks they and their families face at the hands of insurgents who target them for their U.S. alliances. The filmmakers will be on hand to answer questions.

UJA B’NAI MITZVAH PROJECTS  Turn your passion into purpose and help others through UJA-Federation’s Give a Mitzvah Do a Mitzvah program.  Take part in a volunteer and funding mitzvah project tailored for you in honor of becoming a bar or bat mitzvah.  Participants in GMDM can make an impact in New York, Israel or around the world. UJA will help you find a chesed project of your choosing to celebrate your bar/bat mitzvah and even put your own personalized web page on the UJA site for your family and friends to make supporting gifts.  Fully 100% of the funds raised will go to your chosen project. For more information or to schedule a meeting to explore options, please contact Donna Divon at 914 385 2130 or divond@ujafedny.org.  

SHORT TERM PLACE TO STAY NEEDED  Beth El congregants looking for furnished apartment/house for six weeks to two months, beginning December 7, 2018.  If you have a place, contact Linda Newman, (914) 235-2700 ext. 246.

ONGOING ITEMS

RELIGIOUS SCHOOL REGISTRATION is open for the 2018-19 school year. Register at www.bethelnr.org/religiousschoolregistration.

NURSERY SCHOOL REGISTRATION is open for the 2018-19 school year. Register at www.bethelnurseryschool.org.

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.

EXERCISE CLASSES begin again starting Wednesday, November 7, at 10:30am. Come on over for a Balance class.

ZUMBA is most Sundays, 9:30-10:30 a.m., $10. It’s a fun exercise class, newcomers welcome! Classs will be held 11/11, 11/18 and 12/16. No need to RSVP. For more information, please contact Carrie Fox at csfox99@gmail.com.

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.

CARD ROOM ​​​​​​​meets weekly, 12:45 p.m. Canasta on Mondays; Mah Jongg on Tuesdays. Questions? Contact Arlene Salman at aesalman@aol.com, or 914-235-2485.

2019 MAH JONGG CARDS orders must be placed by December 31, 2018 and will be mailed directly to you by the National Mah Jongg League. Order in our main office and contact Arlene Salman with questions.

* 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.

Tuesday, November 6 — 28 Cheshvan 5779

MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM

Join us tomorrow, Wednesday, November 7 for a powerful discussion on mental health. The evening begins at 7:15 p.m. with light refreshments and a short film.

Followed by a panel at 7:45 p.m. that includes a moderated Q&A with a woman whose daughter has suffered with severe anxiety and depression and

someone who has suffered with bipolar disorder. After the panel there

will be breakout groups at 8:45 p.m. The breakout groups with cover a variety

of topics including, “Caregiver Burnout” and “What's Next Here at Beth El,”

led by Rabbi Schuck with a focus on concrete steps we can follow to

become a more supportive community on these issues.

This event is open to all—we want to focus on how we as a community

can help each other, help others and take action. 

This important evening of discussion and learning is in partnership with the Westchester Jewish Community Services. 

For more information, please contact Abby Wise at awise@bethelnr.org.

LIBEINU: HEART & SOUL SHABBAT

Come and join us on Friday, November 9 at 6:30 p.m. as we greet the Sabbath 
with beautiful song, quiet prayer and inspiring words of Torah. Better yet,

come at 6:15 and we’ll start by singing a few niggunim and enjoying some

food and drinks too. Together we’ll be lifted up! 

Please note: we will have our regular Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat/Maariv 
service at 4:30 p.m. in the Goldberger Chapel.

LORD & TAYLOR FUNDRAISER

Friday, November 16 join the Beth El Sisterhood at the Eastchester Lord & Taylor store for a day of shopping smart and doing good. Doors open at 9:00 a.m.

$5 donations give you an admission ticket, two 25% off bonus coupons and a

15% savings pass (usable all day). Pre-Shopping begins on Friday, November 9

with a credit card only. Tickets can be purchased through member of the Sisterhood, through Alise or Marilyn in the office, or through Linda Resnick

at costa48@yahoo.com.

CASINO NIGHT

Saturday, November 17 from 7:30–11:00 p.m. enjoy an evening of Poker,

Craps, Roulette, and Black Jack. Tickets are $45 per person.

No experience necessary. Please RSVP at bethelnr.org/casinonight.

BUILDING BRIDGES OF PEACE THROUGH HEALTHCARE

Sunday, November 18 at 9:15 a.m. join us at Beth El for a special event where

Dr. Akram Armo, PhD and Dr. Sagit Arbel-Alon, M.D. will discuss their cooperative work that is saving lives, developing Palestinian healthcare capacity, and building bridges to peace. This will be a panel moderated by Kenneth Bob, chair of Project Rozana USA, that works to bridge understanding between Israelis and Palestinians through healthcare.

TURKEY DRIVE 2018

HOPE’s food pantry will be collecting money to provide turkeys to families

in our area that are in need. Rabbi David Schuck is a member of the

HOPE Board of Directors. Please contribute a check of $25 or more to this

great cause. Checks can be made payable to Beth El Synagogue Center

with HOPE TURKEY DRIVE in the memo line. Donations can be mailed to Beth El or dropped off in the Beth El office.This year you will be able to give thanks that you were able to help your neighbors celebrate as well!

All Shabbat Announcements, Events and Notices are archived at bethelnr.org/announcements. 
​​​​​​​

Friday, November 2, 2018 •  24 Cheshvan 5779
5:15pm Teen Shabbat for Peace
5:32pm Candle Lighting
5:40pm Mincha/Maariv 

Saturday, November 3, 2018  •  25 Cheshvan 5779 

Parashat Chayei Sarah Genesis 23:1-25:18 pp. 127-141
I Kings 1:1-31 pp. 143-145

Etel Malka Bat Mitzvah
#ShowUpForShabbat | Chai House Visits
9:00am Shabbat Morning Services (Main Sanctuary)
10:15am Pre-Service Oneg Shabbat (Board Room)
10:45am Family Kehillah Services (Goldberger Chapel)
10:45am Torah for Tots (Levenson Chapel)
12:00noon Kiddush (Fayer Ballroom)
12:30pm Daf Shevui (Library)
5:30pm Mincha/Maariv (Goldberger Chapel)
6:31pm Havdalah

The Kiddush is sponsored by Sibel and Serge Malka in honor of the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter Etel Malka and by Shari and Marvin Chinitz in honor of the baby naming of their granddaughter Noam Tamir.

The following people are assisting on Shabbat:
Barbara Cohen and Elise Richman, Ushers; Lauren Freeman-Bosworth, Gabbai;
Aaron Fleishaker, President's Chair; Robert Patchen, Vice President's Chair; Vicki Fisher, Greeter. 

MAZAL TOV, REFUAH SHLEIMAH, CONDOLENCES
Mazal Tov to Shery and Howard Rosenstein on the engagement of their son Adam Rosenstein to Madeline Cohen, daughter of Ruth and Jack Cohen.

Mazal Tov Cantor Uri and Judy Aqua on the engagement of their son Shabsi Aqua to Frumie Rajchgod, daughter of Rabbi Tzvi and Deena Rajchgod. ​​​​​​​

Condolences to Ira Solomon on the passing of his father, Maurice Solomon.

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
(Daylight saving time ends on Sunday. Please note shift in time for Mincha/Maariv)
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 6:55 a.m. Shacharit; 4:30 p.m. Mincha/Maariv, 6:30 p.m. Libeinu

A Word of Torah 
D'var Torah: Sarah's Absence
Vered Hollander-Goldfarb, Conservative Yeshiva Faculty

This parashah is all about Sarah; Avraham's wife and Yitzhak's mother. Spoiler: despite its title, the story opens with her death. But it is her death that forces her husband Avraham to finally buy land, and her absence stands behind the marriage story of Yitzhak.

Sarah is Avraham's steadfast partner. She is the one about whom God said to Avraham "in all that Sarah says to you, hearken to her voice" (21:12). In an unusual move, the Torah gives Sarah's death and burial great coverage. Her death becomes the catalyst that arouses Avraham from his routine. He now takes the two actions that represent steps in fulfilling his destiny of becoming a great nation in the land of Canaan - acquiring land and ensuring his continuity.

While Avraham manages the purchase of land and the burial on his own, he turns to his senior servant to find a wife for Yitzhak.  At first glance, the death of Sarah has no connection to Avraham's move to find a wife for Yitzhak. However, both human nature and local culture tie her, or, rather, her absence, to this story. On the human level, the correlation is not difficult to understand. The loss of his life-partner, the end of an era for Avraham, becomes a wakeup call for him.  The chapter of his generation is coming to an end.  If he wants the story that he and Sarah began to continue, he has to make sure that Yitzhak marries as a first step towards becoming a great nation. Avraham, painfully aware by his loss of the significance of a spouse who is a partner, looks for a suitable wife in the land he came from. He is perhaps hoping to find a young woman with a hint of Sarah's flavor, something that Yitzhak could regonize and connect to.

Why does Avraham not carry out this task by himself? His advanced age might well have been a consideration in avoiding the travel. However, recently I came to understand this parashah in a new, cultural light thanks to Muatasem, a local young Arab man who teaches my daughter Arabic.

Muatasem explained how marriage works in his society: When the young man seems ready for marriage, his mother starts to inquire among her friends if any of them have a daughter who might be eligible.  After the mother finds a girl whom she believes would be suitable for her son, the two young people meet. If they are interested in each other, then the fathers get involved and settle the business end of things. 

Now let us look at the marriage of Avraham's sons.  When Ishmael, Avraham's son from Hagar, gets married, he marries a woman from Egypt, the land his mother hails from.  We are told (21:21) that it is his mother who finds him a wife.

In our parashah (24:28) Rebecca runs to tell her mother about the arrival of the messenger from Avraham. The mother seems to have a significant role in arranging the marriage in 24:53-58.

What will happen to Yitzhak now that Sarah is gone? Avraham no longer has at his side the woman who knows Yitzhak well enough to find a woman suitable for him.  (It is interesting that none of the matriarchs seem to have met their daughters-in-law.) Instead, Avraham entrusts the task to someone else who knows Yitzhak well - in this case, his most trusted servant. The rabbis note that the name of this important character is not mentioned, stressing that he is acting etirely as a messenger, with only Avraham's family needs in mind.

While debating if this reading is assigning too much significance to the role of the mother in her son's future in biblical times, I looked again at this week's haftarah. While it opens with the old age of David (that might parallel that of Avraham), the main story is that of Bat Sheva arranging for Solomon to be placed on the throne. That story offers an alternative situation, one where the mother is present and active. It suggests to us the significant role a mother can play when she is not absent.

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!”

RABBI SCHUCK WANTS TO TRAVEL TO ISRAEL WITH YOU! Trips being considered include a "First Timer Trip" or an "Off the Beaten Path" trip, for those that have been to Israel before and are looking for something 'different'. If you might be interested in a trip, please complete this short form to let us know your availability and what trip you would be interested in.  More detailed descriptions of the trips are included on the form.

MEMORY MINYAN Sunday, November 4, 2:00-3:15pm. Join us at Beth El for a warm prayer and social experience. Enjoy being with friends and family as we explore the concept of COURAGE. Music and Refreshments included. Interested in volunteering to help make this program a success? Contact Julie Rockowitz Jrockowitz@bethelnr.org, 914.235.2700 x256.

THE BUTTERFLY PROJECT  Tuesday, November 6, 10:00 a.m. - Noon. Sponsors: ENGAGE and Beth El’s SMART Group (Senior, Mature, Adult, Retired Together) In recognition of the 80th anniversary of Kristallnacht, The Butterfly Project is a call to action which uses the lessons of the Holocaust to recall the dangers of bigotry through the painting of ceramic butterflies. Our goal is to create 1.5 million butterflies, to be displayed around the world. This project will be led by Maida Silver, Director of Engage Jewish Service Corps of UJA Federation of Westchester, who will read from I Never Saw Another Butterfly. RSVP to Julie Rockowitz, 914.235.2700 x256 or jrockowitz@bethelnr.org.

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS PROGRAM Join us on Wednesday, November 7 for an important exploration of mental health issues. The evening begins at 7:15 p.m.with light refreshments and a trigger film. This will be followed by a panel discussion at 7:45 p.m. that includes a moderated Q&A with someone with bi-polar disorder as well as a mother who has supported her daughter with mental health challenges. After the panel there will be breakout groups at 8:45 p.m, covering the following topics: Caregiver Burnout; Co-Occurring Disorders; Next Steps at Beth El; and Suicide and Judaism. This event is open to all—we want to focus on how we can become a supportive community for those dealing with mental illness and their families. For more information, please contact Abby Wise at awise@bethelnr.org.

THE GRIPES OF ROTH Join Dr. Carol Diament and Rabbi David Schuck for The Gripes of Roth pairing Roth’s “Goodbye Columbus: And Five Short Stories” with rabbinic themes. Three sessions remain (November 8, 15, 29) and run from 9:30am until noon. Register at bethelnr.org/roth.

OPEN BEIT MIDRASH This week's event is Thursday, November 8. Join us on alternating Tuesdays and Thursdays for an evening of non-judgmental, thoughtful conversation. Enjoy refreshments at 7:30 p.m. Learning begins at 8:00 p.m. For more information or to sponsor an evening of learning, visit bethelnr.org/openbeit, or contact Rabbi Sitkin at zsitkin@bethelnr.org.

LIBEINU: HEART AND SOUL SHABBAT Friday, November 9, 6:30pm Greet the Sabbath on Friday evenings with uplifting song, quiet meditative prayer, and inspiring words of Torah.  Together, we will shake off the stresses of the work week and wrap ourselves in the light and song-filled spirit of Shabbat.  

SISTERHOOD SYMPHONY OF WESTCHESTER EVENT Saturday, November 10, 8pm-10pm at Iona college. Join Beth El Sisterhood and the Symphony of Westchester to enjoy an evening of Romantic Music: Edward Elgar Cello Concerto featuring, Inbal Segar & Antonin Dvorak Symphony no. 9. Tickets must be purchased in advance. To purchase tickets and for more information, please contact Carole Graham at 914.576.6617 or carolegraham@optonline.net​​​​.

JEWS OF NORTHERN GREECE: THEN AND NOW Tuesday, November 13, 12:30–2:30 pm Sponsors: Hadassah, Beth El Sisterhood and Beth El’s SMART Group (Senior, Mature, Adult, Retired Together) Sharon Spenser connects the plight of the Jews in Northern Greece to the political and cultural history of the region over a number of centuries. Sharon, and her husband Peter, have travelled extensively throughout Europe. Don’t miss this enlightening talk. A light bite, with a Greek flavor will be served at 12:30pm. Program starts at 1:00pm. NO CHARGE! Donations accepted. Contact Julie Rockowitz at jrockowitz@bethelnr.org

CASINO NIGHT Saturday, November 17, 7:30pm-11:00pm. Enjoy an evening of Poker, Craps, Roulette, and Black Jack. Tickets are $45 per person. No experience necessary. Please RSVP at bethelnr.org/casinonight.

BUILDING BRIDGES OF PEACE THROUGH HEALTHCARE Sunday, November 18 at 9:15 a.m. Join us at Beth El for a special event where Dr. Akram Armo, PhD and Dr. Sagit Arbel-Alon, M.D. will discuss their cooperative work that is saving lives, developing Palestinian healthcare capacity, and building bridges to peace. This will be a panel moderated by Kenneth Bob, chair of Project Rozana USA, that works to bridge understanding between Israelis and Palestinians through healthcare.

A LITTLE AFTERNOON MUSIC: LIVE CONCERT  Sunday, November 18, 2:00 - 3:30 pm. Join us for a varied woodwind chamber music played by members of the Lesbian and Gay Big Apple Corps Symphonic Band. Founded in 1979 to provide the LGBTQ community with a supportive and friendly environment for musical and artistic expression, the music will range from Bizet’s Carmen to Beethoven’s Ode to Joy presented in unique arrangements. $10/person • No charge to anyone with a November birthday. Light Refreshments to follow. Co-Sponsored by the Brandeis National Women’s Committee.  RSVP is a must! Contact Julie Rockowitz at jrockowitz@bethelnr.org or 915.235.2700 ext. 256

WHERE 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. 
After UAE Success, Israel Signs ‘Historic Agreement’ to Hold World Judo Competitions

Intel’s Mobileye, Volkswagen to roll out Israel’s First Autonomous Ride-hailing Service

LIMMUD, LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES, & COMMUNITY EVENTS

NEW ENGLAND JEWISH COLLEGIATE A CAPPELLA COMPETITION AND SHOWCASE Sunday, November 4, 4:00 p.m. at Temple Shalom Greenwich, CT. It’s is going to be an exciting afternoon with performances by eight college teams from across the Northeast competing for the grand prize by performing songs in English and Hebrew. For more information visit neacappella2018.eventbrite.com.

SCHECHTER WESTCHESTER OPEN HOUSE Sunday, November 11, 10am. Schechter Westchester invites all 3 and 4 year olds and their parents to enjoy our Kindergarten Open House. Children can enjoy their own activities led by our kindergarten, PE, and music teachers while parents are attending informational sessions led by our Heads of School, Lower School Leadership Team, teachers, parents and students. Learn about our innovative project-based education. Experience our STEAM curriculum. Understand the value of a Schechter Westchester education. We all will enjoy a hot brunch together at the end.
Please RSVP to Diana Schutt at LSAdmissions@schechterwestchester.org or call (914) 948-3111 ext.4370.

THE BROTHER JOHN G. DRISCOLL PROFESSORSHIP IN JEWISH-CATHOLIC STUDIES AT IONA COLLEGE will be hosting a Kristallnacht Commemoration entitled We Are in this World to Do Good: Ethics During and After the Holocaust with Dr. John K. Roth on Monday, November 12 at 7:30pm. For more information, contact Dr. Procario-Foley at (914) 637-2744 or eprocariofoley@iona.edu. All events are free and open to the public.

AJC THANKSGIVING DIVERSITY BREAKFAST Thursday, November 15, 7:30 a.m., at Manhattanville College. The Breakfast brings together hundreds of faith and ethnic leaders from across the region to celebrate our diversity.  It was begun in response to the horrific events of September 11, 2001, and we are pleased to report that attendance grows and becomes more diverse each year. Beth El Synagogue Center is a community partner of the event. More information is available at www.ajc.org/westchester. Registration required.

ANNIVERSARY AND CELEBRATION Thursday, November 15, 7 p.m. at Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation White Plains. Please celebrate with us both the one year anniversary of the Ghafoor’s arriving  in the U.S. and all of our volunteers that have worked so hard to make the family welcomed.

PELHAM PICTURE HOUSE Sunday, November 18, 7:30 p.m. at 175 Wolfs Lane, Pelham, N.Y.. The documentary film  “The Interpreters” is sponsored by the Westchester Refugee Initiative (WRI) and Hearts & Homes for Refugees (HHR). The film documents the lives of the men who provide mission support to U.S. Troops in Afghanistan and Iraq and the resulting risks they and their families face at the hands of insurgents who target them for their U.S. alliances. The filmmakers will be on hand to answer questions.

UJA B’NAI MITZVAH PROJECTS  Turn your passion into purpose and help others through UJA-Federation’s Give a Mitzvah Do a Mitzvah program.  Take part in a volunteer and funding mitzvah project tailored for you in honor of becoming a bar or bat mitzvah.  Participants in GMDM can make an impact in New York, Israel or around the world. UJA will help you find a chesed project of your choosing to celebrate your bar/bat mitzvah and even put your own personalized web page on the UJA site for your family and friends to make supporting gifts.  Fully 100% of the funds raised will go to your chosen project. For more information or to schedule a meeting to explore options, please contact Donna Divon at 914 385 2130 or divond@ujafedny.org.  

ONGOING ITEMS

RELIGIOUS SCHOOL REGISTRATION is open for the 2018-19 school year. Register at www.bethelnr.org/religiousschoolregistration.

NURSERY SCHOOL REGISTRATION is open for the 2018-19 school year. Register at www.bethelnurseryschool.org.

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.

EXERCISE CLASSES begin again starting Wednesday, November 7, at 10:30am. Come on over for a Balance class.

ZUMBA is most Sundays, 9:30-10:30 a.m., $10. It’s a fun exercise class, newcomers welcome! No need to RSVP. For more information, please contact Carrie Fox at csfox99@gmail.com.

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.

CARD ROOM ​​​​​​​meets weekly, 12:45 p.m. Canasta on Mondays; Mah Jongg on Tuesdays. Questions? Contact Arlene Salman at aesalman@aol.com, or 914-235-2485.

2019 MAH JONGG CARDS orders must be placed by December 31, 2018 and will be mailed directly to you by the National Mah Jongg League. Order in our main office and contact Arlene Salman with questions.

* 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.

Tuesday, October 30 — 21 Cheshvan 5779

OPEN BEIT MIDRASH SCHOLAR

The first Open Beit Midrash scholar visit of the year is tonight!

The evening will begin with drinks and food at 7:30 p.m. followed by guest scholar

Rabbi Ethan Tucker at 8:00 p.m. Rabbi Ethan Tucker is President and

Rosh Yeshiva at Hadar and chair in Jewish Law. He also directs Hadar’s Center for Jewish Law and Values. He will be speaking on the topic,

“Was Abraham Required to Sacrifice his Ethics?”

The evening will be sponsored by Barbara Simon in memory of her son's yahrzeit.

For more information on our Open Beit Midrash and how to sponsor

an evening of learning, go to bethelnr.org/openbeit.

MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM

Join us on Wednesday, November 7 for a powerful discussion on mental health. The evening begins at 7:15 p.m. with light refreshments and a short film.

Followed by a panel at 7:45 p.m. that includes a moderated Q&A with a woman whose daughter has suffered with severe anxiety and depression and

someone who has suffered with bipolar disorder. After the panel there

will be breakout groups at 8:45 p.m. The breakout groups with cover a variety

of topics including, “Caregiver Burnout” and “What's Next Here at Beth El,”

led by Rabbi Schuck with a focus on concrete steps we can follow to

become a more supportive community on these issues.

This event is open to all—we want to focus on how we as a community

can help each other, help others and take action. 

This important evening of discussion and learning is in partnership with the Westchester Jewish Community Services. 

For more information, please contact Abby Wise at awise@bethelnr.org.

CASINO NIGHT

Saturday, November 17 from 7:30–11:00 p.m. enjoy an evening of Poker,

Craps, Roulette, and Black Jack. Tickets are $45 per person.

No experience necessary. Please RSVP at bethelnr.org/casinonight.

BUILDING BRIDGES OF PEACE THROUGH HEALTHCARE

Sunday, November 18 at 9:15 a.m. join us at Beth El for a special event where

Dr. Akram Armo, PhD and Dr. Sagit Arbel-Alon, M.D. will discuss their cooperative work that is saving lives, developing Palestinian healthcare capacity, and building bridges to peace. This will be a panel moderated by Kenneth Bob, chair of Project Rozana USA, that works to bridge understanding between Israelis and Palestinians through healthcare.

COMEDY NIGHT

Saturday, December 8, doors open at 8:00 p.m., show begins at 9:00 p.m.
Drink, nosh & laugh your tuchus off at this fun night out at Beth El! 
Early bird pricing is $40 per person until November 30 and will go up to
$45 per person after this date. Please RSVP at bethelnr.org/comedynight. Questions? Contact Donna Bartell at donnabartell@verizon.net.

SISTERHOOD SYMPHONY OF WESTCHESTER EVENT

 Join Beth El Sisterhood and the Symphony of Westchester on Saturday, November 10 from 8:00–10:00 p.m. at Iona College.

Enjoy an evening of Romantic Music: Edward Elgar Cello Concerto featuring,

Inbal Segar & Antonin Dvorak Symphony no. 9. Tickets must be

purchased in advance. To purchase tickets and for more information, please contact Carole Graham at 914.576.6617 or carolegraham@optonline.net​​​​.

All Shabbat Announcements, Events and Notices are archived at bethelnr.org/announcements. 
​​​​​​​

Friday, October 26, 2018 •  17 Cheshvan 5779
5:41pm Candle Lighting
5:50pm Mincha/Maariv (Goldberger Chapel)

Saturday, October 27, 2018  •  18 Cheshvan 5779 

Parashat Vayera Genesis 18:1-22:24 pp. 99-122
II Kings 4-1:37 pp. 124-126

Ashley Katzenberg Bat Mitzvah
9:00am Shabbat Morning Services (Main Sanctuary)
10:15am Pre-Service Oneg Shabbat (Board Room)
10:45am Family Kehillah Services (Goldberger Chapel)
10:45am Torah for Tots (Levenson Chapel)
12:00noon Kiddush (Fayer Ballroom)
12:30pm Daf Shevui (Library)
5:50pm Mincha/Maariv (Goldberger Chapel)
6:40pm Havdalah

The Kiddush is sponsored by Samantha and Jordan Katzenberg in honor of the bat mitzvah of their daughter Ashley Katzenberg and by Bettina Graf on the auf ruf and upcoming marriage of her grandson Daniel Graf to Alyssa Cooper.

The following people are assisting on Shabbat:
Rochelle Chaiken and Mark Silver, Ushers; Donna Levy, Gabbai;
Marc Klee, President's Chair; Jessica Berman, Greeter. 

MAZAL TOV, REFUAH SHLEIMAH, CONDOLENCES
Mazal Tov to Yvette Gordon on the birth of great-grandson Benjamin Ryan Adler-Gordon, and to parents Jenna and Elliot Adler-Gordon and grandparents Lynne and Arnold Gordon and Reesa and Mendy Adler.

Condolences to Beth Breakstone (Ted Keltz) on the loss of her father, and to Julia Keltz (Zach Seiden) on the loss of her grandfather, Raymond Breakstone.

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

A Word of Torah 
D'var Torah: The Cult of Continuity
Rabbi Joel Levy, Conservative Yeshiva Faculty & Rosh Yeshiva

Was there something special about Avraham which caused God to pluck him from obscurity and enter into an eternal covenant with him? Our tradition offers many different responses to this question and one is buried in this week's parashah:

     "For I know him (Ki Y'dativ), that he will command (Y'Tsaveh) his children and his household after him, that they shall keep the way of God..." (Genesis 18:19)

According to one reading of this verse, Avraham is special (or God chooses Avraham) because God knows ("Y'dativ") that Avraham will be capable of creating an on-going, self-sustaining community that will preserve God's message. There could have been other people who were morally worthy of entering into a covenant with God but only Avraham was able to "command his children and his household after him". All previous uses of the verb "to command" in the Torah refer to God commanding humans. Here for the first time, we have a human making commands; a fact that the Babylonian Talmud (Sanhedrin 56b) picks up on when, based on this verse, it acknowledges Avraham as the archetypal human commander (m'tsaveh). To put it crudely, Avraham was "Mr. Continuity". We live in a world where, for better and for worse, the Avrahamic traditions dominate much of the planet. It does seem as if there was, at least mythologically, something special about Avraham's capacity to create self-perpetuating religious traditions. Avrahamic traditions really are astonishingly good at self-replicating.

But continuity is not enough. Conor Cruise O'Brien who represented Ireland at the UN in 1956 and who, since representatives sat in the alphabetical order of their nations, sat between the representatives of Iraq and Israel, was led to ponder whether religious traditions are really just another unpleasant facet of nationalism. The Avrahamic traditions may be good at self-replicating, but so are flu viruses! God may have known from the outset that Avraham could be relied upon to perpetuate God's message, but it is only at the end of the parashah, after the story of the binding of Isaac and Avraham's willingness to sacrifice his beloved son, that God comes to know that this desire and ability to perpetuate is not merely an expression of self-interest:

     "...for now I know (Ki Atah Yadati) that you fear God..." (Genesis 22:12)

Only with the binding of Isaac are we reassured that Avraham's capacity for continuity is outweighed by his commitment to God.
Stirred by our nervousness about our incapacity to transmit our beliefs and practices, liberal Jews often eye our illiberal Jewish cousins with a holy envy for their apparent capacity to "commandtheir children and their household after them". It does seem to be true that various aspects of religious fundamentalism seem to contribute to high levels of cultural transmission. A fundamentalist belief in the pristine source of your own canon; a tendency towards social isolationism and exclusion of outsiders; a declared belief in one's elevated status in the eyes of God; a focus on particularist rather than universalist religious motifs; a heightened sense and practice of altruism tuned almost exclusively to insiders, a serene sense that one is transmitting an unbroken authentic chain of tradition - all of these do seem to contribute to high levels of cultural continuity.

But continuity is not God. If our yearning to perpetuate Judaism is motivated by the desire for self-replication and we are thus tempted to use the tools of the fundamentalist, then we should take a long hard look in the mirror. Jewish continuity may be a good thing for the world but only if it is motivated by deep desires other than the cultural "evil inclination". If a liberal Muslim were to follow the same track; eschewing the values of peaceful integration, intellectual integrity and moral courage and, based on a fear of assimilation, began to espouse rabidly particularist and fundamentalist ideas in order to ensure that her kids stayed within their fold, we would beg her to reconsider for the sake of Peace, for the sake of Truth, for God's sake.

God knows at the start of the parashah that Avraham is capable of guaranteeing continuity. Only at the end of the parashah does God know that Avraham does not worship continuity and that he will not sacrifice his deepest values on her altar. By being prepared to sacrifice his son he is articulating, in the deepest way possible, that continuity is not God. Avrahamic religions all have an Achilles' heel connected to cultural narcissism and we must all be constantly vigilant that we do not turn to the dark side.

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!”

KOL NIDRE APPEAL CONTRIBUTIONS There is still time to contribute to our Kol Nidre Appeal. Our building is open seven days a week, serving our members and our community. We appreciate every gift, both large and small. Please visit, www.bethelnr.org/form/KN18 Thank you.

RABBI SCHUCK WANTS TO TRAVEL TO ISRAEL WITH YOU! Trips being considered include a "First Timer Trip" or an "Off the Beaten Path" trip, for those that have been to Israel before and are looking for something 'different'. If you might be interested in a trip, please complete this short form to let us know your availability and what trip you would be interested in.  More detailed descriptions of the trips are included on the form.

SISTERHOOD BAGELS AND BOOKS Monday, October 29, 9:30 a.m. We will discuss The Two Family House by Lynda Cohen Loigman. Questions? Contact Arlene Salman at aesalman@aol.com or 914-235-2485.

DRAWING AND PAINTING CLASS 7 weeks of classes taught by Cindy Shechter, Tuesday mornings, 9:30am -12noon continuing Tuesday, October 30. Want to try something new? Bring out your inner artist!  $150 includes all supplies. Limited enrollment, class is almost full! To reserve your spot, contact jrockowitz@bethelnr.org or 914.235.2700 ext. 256.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE CHALLENGE  Tuesday, October 30, 10:00 a.m.- Noon
Sponsor:  Beth El’s SMART Group (Senior Mature Adults Retired Together) and The Brandeis National Women’s Committee. Challenge yourself with a crossword puzzle and stimulate your brain. Together with Ed Stein, of The New York Times, we will complete a crossword puzzle effectively.  Join us for our first event of the year! No charge. Donations always welcome! 10:00 - Coffee, schmooze, and the newspaper;  10:30 - Crossword Event. RSVP at jrockowitz@bethelnr.org or 914.235.2700 ext. 256.

OPEN BEIT MIDRASH SCHOLAR Tuesday, October 30. The evening will begin with drinks and food at 7:30 p.m. followed by guest scholar Rabbi Ethan Tucker at 8:00 p.m. Rabbi Ethan Tucker is President and Rosh Yeshiva at Hadar and chair in Jewish Law. He also directs Hadar’s Center for Jewish Law and Values. He will be speaking on the topic, “Was Abraham Required to Sacrifice his Ethics?” For more information on our Open Beit Midrash go to bethelnr.org/openbeit.

THE GRIPES OF ROTH Join Dr. Carol Diament and Rabbi David Schuck for The Gripes of Roth pairing Roth’s “Goodbye Columbus: And Five Short Stories” with rabbinic themes. Four sessions remain (November 1, 8, 15, 29) and run from 9:30am until noon. Register at bethelnr.org/roth.

MEMORY MINYAN Sunday, November 4 2:00-3:15pm. Join us at Beth El for a warm prayer and social experience. Enjoy being with friends and family as we explore the concept of COURAGE. Music and Refreshments included. Interested in volunteering to help make this program a success? Contact Jrockowitz@bethelnr.org, 914.235.2700 x256.

THE BUTTERFLY PROJECT  Tuesday, November 6, 10:00 a.m. - Noon. Sponsors: ENGAGE and Beth El’s SMART Group (Senior, Mature, Adult, Retired Together) In recognition of the 80th anniversary of Kristallnacht, The Butterfly Project is a call to action which uses the lessons of the Holocaust to recall the dangers of bigotry through the painting of ceramic butterflies. Our goal is to create 1.5 million butterflies, to be displayed around the world. This project will be led by Maida Silver, Director of Engage Jewish Service Corps of UJA Federation of Westchester, who will read from I Never Saw Another Butterfly. RSVP to Julie Rockowitz, 914.235.2700 x256 or jrockowitz@bethelnr.org.

MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM Join us on Wednesday, November 7 for a powerful discussion on mental health. The evening begins at 7:15 p.m. with light refreshments and a short film. Followed by a panel at 7:45 p.m. that includes a moderated Q&A with a woman whose daughter has suffered with severe anxiety and depression and someone who has suffered with bipolar disorder. After the panel there will be breakout groups at 8:45 p.m. The breakout groups with cover a variety of topics including, “Caregiver Burnout” and “What's Next Here at Beth El,” led by Rabbi Schuck with a focus on concrete steps we can follow to become a more supportive community on these issues. This event is open to all—we want to focus on how we as a community can help each other, help others and take action. For more information, please contact Abby Wise at awise@bethelnr.org.

JEWS OF NORTHERN GREECE: THEN AND NOW Tuesday, November 13, 12:30–2:30 pm Sponsors: Hadassah, Beth El Sisterhood and Beth El’s SMART Group (Senior, Mature, Adult, Retired Together) Sharon Spenser connects the plight of the Jews in Northern Greece to the political and cultural history of the region over a number of centuries. Sharon, and her husband Peter, have travelled extensively throughout Europe. Don’t miss this enlightening talk. A light bite, with a Greek flavor will be served at 12:30pm. Program starts at 1:00pm. NO CHARGE! Donations accepted. Contact Julie Rockowitz at jrockowitz@bethelnr.org

CASINO NIGHT Saturday, November 17, 7:30pm-11:00pm. Enjoy an evening of Poker, Craps, Roulette, and Black Jack. Tickets are $45 per person. No experience necessary. Please RSVP at bethelnr.org/casinonight.

BUILDING BRIDGES OF PEACE THROUGH HEALTHCARE Sunday, November 18 at 9:15 a.m. Join us at Beth El for a special event where Dr. Akram Armo, PhD and Dr. Sagit Arbel-Alon, M.D. will discuss their cooperative work that is saving lives, developing Palestinian healthcare capacity, and building bridges to peace. This will be a panel moderated by Kenneth Bob, chair of Project Rozana USA, that works to bridge understanding between Israelis and Palestinians through healthcare.

A LITTLE AFTERNOON MUSIC: LIVE CONCERT  Sunday, November 18, 2:00 - 3:30 pm. Join us for a varied woodwind chamber music played by members of the Lesbian and Gay Big Apple Corps Symphonic Band. Founded in 1979 to provide the LGBTQ community with a supportive and friendly environment for musical and artistic expression, the music will range from Bizet’s Carmen to Beethoven’s Ode to Joy presented in unique arrangements. $10/person • No charge to anyone with a November birthday. Light Refreshments to follow. Co-Sponsored by the Brandeis National Women’s Committee.  RSVP is a must! Contact Julie Rockowitz at jrockowitz@bethelnr.org or 915.235.2700 ext. 256

WHERE 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’s Youth Olympic Team Brings Home 3 Medals
Haifa’s Rambam Hospital Teams with Georgia Tech to Launch Med-Tech Incubator in Atlanta

LIMMUD, LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES, & COMMUNITY EVENTS

JOIN CARMEL ACADEMY FOR ITS OPEN HOUSE Sunday, October 28 10 a.m.–12 p.m. at the school’s 270 Lake Avenue campus in Greenwich, CT.  Prospective families will meet with the school’s leadership and faculty, interact with current students, parents and alumni, and experience the authentic, engaging and experiential learning that takes place at Carmel every day. Children will spend the morning in fun-filled interactive activities including a puppet show, art, music, science, drama, movement and a PJ Library story time.  Please RSVP at www.carmelacademy.com/openhouse or by contacting Director of Admissions, Ella Shteingart, at ella.shteingart@carmelacademy.comor 203-983-3503.

NEW ROCHELLE CARES AIP (AGING IN PLACE) APPRECIATION DAY Thursday, November 1, 3pm-5pm, City Hall Rotunda 515 North Avenue New Rochelle, NY 10804. New Rochelle Cares AIP is a volunteer organization dedicated to giving New Rochelle residents 60 and over the support they need to remain in their own homes as they age. For more information visit www.newrochellecares.org or email info@newrochellecares.org.

NEW ENGLAND JEWISH COLLEGIATE A CAPPELLA COMPETITION AND SHOWCASE Sunday, November 4, 4:00 p.m. at Temple Shalom Greenwich, CT. It’s is going to be an exciting afternoon with performances by eight college teams from across the Northeast competing for the grand prize by performing songs in English and Hebrew. For more information visit neacappella2018.eventbrite.com.

THE BROTHER JOHN G. DRISCOLL PROFESSORSHIP IN JEWISH-CATHOLIC STUDIES AT IONA COLLEGE will be hosting a Kristallnacht Commemoration entitled We Are in this World to Do Good: Ethics During and After the Holocaust with Dr. John K. Roth on Monday, November 12 at 7:30pm. For more information, contact Dr. Procario-Foley at (914) 637-2744 or eprocariofoley@iona.edu. All events are free and open to the public.

AJC THANKSGIVING DIVERSITY BREAKFAST Thursday, November 15, 7:30 a.m., at Manhattanville College. The Breakfast brings together hundreds of faith and ethnic leaders from across the region to celebrate our diversity.  It was begun in response to the horrific events of September 11, 2001, and we are pleased to report that attendance grows and becomes more diverse each year. Beth El Synagogue Center is a community partner of the event. More information is available at www.ajc.org/westchester. Registration required.

ANNIVERSARY AND CELEBRATION Thursday, November 15, 7 p.m. at Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation White Plains. Please celebrate with us both the one year anniversary of the Ghafoor’s arriving  in the U.S. and all of our volunteers that have worked so hard to make the family welcomed.

PELHAM PICTURE HOUSE Sunday, November 18, 7:30 p.m. at 175 Wolfs Lane, Pelham, N.Y.. The documentary film  “The Interpreters” is sponsored by the Westchester Refugee Initiative (WRI) and Hearts & Homes for Refugees (HHR). The film documents the lives of the men who provide mission support to U.S. Troops in Afghanistan and Iraq and the resulting risks they and their families face at the hands of insurgents who target them for their U.S. alliances. The filmmakers will be on hand to answer questions.

UJA B’NAI MITZVAH PROJECTS  Turn your passion into purpose and help others through UJA-Federation’s Give a Mitzvah Do a Mitzvah program.  Take part in a volunteer and funding mitzvah project tailored for you in honor of becoming a bar or bat mitzvah.  Participants in GMDM can make an impact in New York, Israel or around the world. UJA will help you find a chesed project of your choosing to celebrate your bar/bat mitzvah and even put your own personalized web page on the UJA site for your family and friends to make supporting gifts.  Fully 100% of the funds raised will go to your chosen project. For more information or to schedule a meeting to explore options, please contact Donna Divon at 914 385 2130 or divond@ujafedny.org.  

ONGOING ITEMS

RELIGIOUS SCHOOL REGISTRATION is open for the 2018-19 school year. Register at www.bethelnr.org/religiousschoolregistration.

NURSERY SCHOOL REGISTRATION is open for the 2018-19 school year. Register at www.bethelnurseryschool.org.

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.

DR. BETH BREAKSTONE PRESENTS ‘ART INSPIRED BY NATURE” IN THE KANNER-KURZON MUSEUM  You can visit any other time daily through the end of October while the synagogue is open.  If the room is locked please get the key from the Beth El office or from the greeter at the front door.

ZUMBA is most Sundays, 9:30-10:30 a.m., $10. It’s a fun exercise class, newcomers welcome! In October, we have class 10/28. No need to RSVP. For more information, please contact Carrie Fox at csfox99@gmail.com.

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.

CARD ROOM ​​​​​​​meets weekly, 12:45 p.m. Canasta on Mondays; Mah Jongg on Tuesdays. Questions? Contact Arlene Salman at aesalman@aol.com, or 914-235-2485.

2019 MAH JONGG CARDS orders must be placed by December 31, 2018 and will be mailed directly to you by the National Mah Jongg League. Order in our main office and contact Arlene Salman with questions.

* 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.

Tuesday, October 23 — 14 Cheshvan 5779

OPEN BEIT MIDRASH SCHOLAR

The first Open Beit Midrash scholar visit of the year will be on

Tuesday, October 30. The evening will begin with drinks and food at 7:30 p.m. followed by guest scholar Rabbi Ethan Tucker at 8:00 p.m.

Rabbi Ethan Tucker is President and Rosh Yeshiva at Hadar and chair

in Jewish Law. He also directs Hadar’s Center for Jewish Law and Values.

He will be speaking on the topic, “Was Abraham Required to Sacrifice his Ethics?”

For more information on our Open Beit Midrash go to bethelnr.org/openbeit.

S.M.A.R.T. GROUP CROSSWORD EVENT

Join us on Tuesday, October 30 from 10:00 a.m.–Noon for the S.M.A.R.T. group's opening event! Together with Ed Stein, creator of crossword puzzles for the

New York Times, and friends we will have the opportunity to work on and complete a crossword puzzle completely and effectively. At 10:00 a.m. enjoy coffee, schmoozing, and the newspaper followed by the main crossword event beginning at 10:30 a.m. RSVP appreciated to Julie Rockowitz at 914.235.2700 ext. 256

or jrockowitz@bethelnr.org.

MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM

Join us on Wednesday, November 7 for a powerful discussion on mental health. The evening begins at 7:15 p.m. with light refreshments and a short film.

Followed by a panel at 7:45 p.m. that includes a moderated Q&A with a woman whose daughter has suffered with severe anxiety and depression and

someone who has suffered with bipolar disorder. After the panel there

will be breakout groups at 8:45 p.m. The breakout groups with cover a variety

of topics including, “Caregiver Burnout” and “What's Next Here at Beth El,”

led by Rabbi Schuck with a focus on concrete steps we can follow to

become a more supportive community on these issues.

This event is open to all—we want to focus on how we as a community can help each other, help others and take action. 

For more information, please contact Abby Wise at awise@bethelnr.org.

CASINO NIGHT

Saturday, November 17 from 7:30–11:00 p.m. enjoy an evening of Poker,

Craps, Roulette, and Black Jack. Tickets are $45 per person.

No experience necessary. Please RSVP at bethelnr.org/casinonight.

BUILDING BRIDGES OF PEACE THROUGH HEALTHCARE

Sunday, November 18 at 9:15 a.m. join us at Beth El for a special event where

Dr. Akram Armo, PhD and Dr. Sagit Arbel-Alon, M.D. will discuss their cooperative work that is saving lives, developing Palestinian healthcare capacity, and building bridges to peace. This will be a panel moderated by Kenneth Bob, chair of Project Rozana USA, that works to bridge understanding between Israelis and Palestinians through healthcare.

SISTERHOOD SAVE THE DATE

Wine & Cheese, Evening Book Club
October 24, 7:30 p.m.
​​​​​​​Learn More

Bagels and Books
October 29, 9:30 a.m. 
Learn More

Symphony of Westchester
Saturday, November 10, 8:00 p.m.
​​​​​​​Learn More

Lord & Taylor Shopping Benefit
Friday, November 16 

SAVE THE DATE

Post Kiddush Talk 
Saturday, December 1 in the Weiner Lounge

Fardeen Ghafoor and his family will meet with the congregation after Kiddush. Ghafoor and his family arried in the U.S. last November as immigrants from Afghanistan. You will hear Fardeen's story and he will be answering

any questions about his and his family's experience. 

All Shabbat Announcements, Events and Notices are archived at bethelnr.org/announcements. 
​​​​​​​