1. religion and spirituality
2. judaism

w w w. b e t h e l - o m a h a . o r g • Tevet-Sh’vat 5 7 7 5 • January 2015 • 402-492-8550
B’Ruchim HaBa’im – Welcome to Our New Members!
We offer a hearty welcome to the newest members of our Beth El family:
• Rick & Darice Bailer
• Howard Borden
• Dan & Angela Brodsky and their daughters Micah & Sasha
• Ryan & Lisa Cooper and their son Henry
• Ashley Corcoran
Darice & Rick Bailer
• Irwin Goldenberg
• Corey Green
• Scherry (Chickie) Linsman
• Samuel & Alice Meisels
• Marlene Parilman
• Allen & Maxine Passer
• Tommy & Lauren Tam and their children Hunter, Lily, Ilana & Sadie
• Bob & Rita Yaffe
Howard Borden
Lisa & Ryan Cooper with son Henry
Lauren & Tommy Tam with children Lily,
Ilana, Hunter and Sadie
Rita & Bob Yaffe
23 Years Ends on the 23rd
Jeanne Shechet, longtime Beth El Synagogue school secretary, announced her retirement last month. After 23 years as the
school’s secretary, her last day at the synagogue was December 23.
Jeanne began her career at Beth El with Rabbi Drazen after the kosher butcher shop, “The Kosher Pickle,” at 132nd and
Center that she owned with her husband, closed. In between, she worked at the Jewish Press for a short time, with Editor
Morris Maline and Assistant Editor Judy Marburg.
Jeanne’s office was in the original Beth Israel at 52nd Street and Hamilton, when the school was called UTTO, United
Talmud Torah Omaha, and it was a combined school with Beth Israel Synagogue. “The students met at the JCC, so I never
saw them,” she recalled. “After just a year, the school wing was built on 144th and Dodge, and staff and students could be
(continued on page 4)
We Thank Our Yad Squad
The following members read Torah/
Haftarah in November & December:
Lech-Lecha
• Hazzan Michael Krausman
• Sharon Brodkey
• Caryn Scheer
• Steve Riekes
• Ben Shapiro
• Heather Kelln
• Haftarah - Laurel Krausman
Drop-off: Saturday, January 10 - 10:00 a.m.
Pick-up: Sunday, January 11 - 9:45 a.m.
Cost: $20 per person
Vayera
• Yonatan Feldstern
• Roni Reiter-Palmon
• Steve Riekes
• Hazzan Michael Krausman
• Sally Zipursky
• Haftarah - Leigh Emas
Chayei Sara
• Linda Saltzman
• Rosalie Saltzman
• Ari Saltzman
• Richard Young
• Yonatan Feldstern
• Haftarah - Ari Saltzman
Toldot
• Marty Shukert
• Glen Fineman
• Alan Shulewitz
• Yonatan Feldstern
• Jay Gordman
• Lillian Cohen
• Haftarah - Patty Nogg
Vayetzei
• Rabbi Steven Abraham
• Ben Shapiro
• Marty Shukert
• Yonatan Feldstern
• Haftarah - Marty Shukert
Vayishlach
• Glen Fineman
• Ben Shapiro
• Gabby Witkowski
• Zach Krausman
• Marty Shukert
• Yonatan Feldstern
• Haftarah - Nancy Rips
Vayeshev
• Hazzan Michael Krausman
• Jay Gordman
• Sharon Brodkey
• Alan Shulewitz
• Zev Krausman
• Janie Murow
• Heather Kelln
• Haftarah - Caryn Scheer
Students(in(grades(3.7,(Madrechim(and(USY’ers(and(all(Jewish(students(in(
Omaha(are(invited(to(join(us(for(a(day(of(wonderful(Shabbat(activities.(Spend(
time(with(your(friends(and(enjoy(a(special(trip(to(the(UNO(Planetarium.(
There(will(be(no(BESTT(for(students(in(grades(3.7(on(January(11.
Register(by(January(2(online(at(www.bethel5omaha.org.(
Learn to Play
Shanghai at Beth El
Card players and newbies alike recently
had a chance to learn the game of
Shanghai during a relaxing afternoon at
Beth El Synagogue. Organized by Phyllis
Wasserman at the urging of a few
congregants, people in attendance soon
found that the game of Shanghai is easy
to learn and fun to play. Phyllis provided a packet of simple rules, engaged seasoned
shanghai players as teachers and even provided mechanical card shufflers at each table.
If you would like to learn to play but weren’t able to attend the first class or if you
know how to play but would like a bit more practice, you’ll have another chance.
Lessons will again be offered on Thursday, January 15 at 1:00 p.m. at Beth El.
Snacks and card tables will be set up, rules and teachers will be available; all we need
is YOU! RSVP online at www.bethel-omaha.org or contact Phyllis at ppw130@aol.com
so we know to expect you. Plan to enjoy a relaxing afternoon of playing, practicing
or learning. Soon you’ll be ready to play in a group or start your own.
Beth El Appreciates Our Patron Members
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Mrs. Sandra Belgrade
Mrs. Frances Blumkin
Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Blumkin
Mr. & Mrs. Norman
Denenberg
Miketz
• Drs. Steven & Tiffany
• Steve Riekes
Denenberg
• Jacob Spivack
•
Mr.
& Mrs. Gary Epstein
• Yonatan Feldstern
•
Mr.
&
Mrs. Richard Fellman
• Ben Shapiro
• Marty Shukert
• Dr. & Mrs. David Finkle
• Ethan Spivack
• Drs. Harris & Jan Frankel
• Haftarah - Ethan Spivack
• Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Friedlander
• Mr. & Mrs. Howard Friedman
Vayigash
• Marty Shukert
• Mr. & Mrs. Sanford Friedman
• Haftarah - Marty Shukert
• Mr. & Mrs. Steven Friedman
Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org
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Mrs. Carol Gendler
Mr. Donald Goldstein
Mrs. Shirley Goldstein
Mr. & Mrs. Jerome Gordman
Dr. & Mrs. Bruce Gutnik
Mr. & Mrs. Arnold Joffe
Mr. & Mrs. Howard Kaslow
Mr. & Mrs. Howard Kooper
Mr. & Mrs. Harold Mann
Mr. & Mrs. Allan Murow
Mr. Allan Noddle
Mr. & Mrs. Steven Nogg
Mr. & Mrs. Alan Parsow
Dr. & Mrs. Eric Phillips
Mr. & Mrs. Steve Pitlor
Support the Buy Beth
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Mr. & Mrs. Carl Riekes
Mr. & Mrs. Steve Riekes
Dr. & Mrs. Joel Schlessinger
Mr. & Mrs. Natan Schwalb
Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Shackman
Mr. Steven Silver
Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Silverman
Mr. & Mrs. Irving Veitzer
Drs. Isaac & Susan Witkowski
Mr. & Mrs. James Zipursky
Anonymous
For more information about how
you can become a patron member,
contact Larry DeBruin.
El Program
Shabbat Shira: the Sabbath of Song
by Hazzan Michael Krausman
One of the most
exciting parts of
our annual cycle
of Torah reading
is the joyous
Song of the Sea
or, Shirat Ha
Yam. Contained
within the weekly portion of
B’Shalach, which recounts the
movements of the newly freed
Israelites as they begin to make their
way to the Promised Land, the
Shirat Ha Yam occurs immediately
following the dramatic crossing of
the Red Sea. The song includes an
account of how Miriam, Moses’
sister, leads the people in dance
celebrating the successful crossing
and the vanquishing of Pharaoh’s
pursuing army. Overflowing with
ecstasy and gratitude, the children
of Israel instinctively turn to song to
express their deep emotions. It has
been said that this stirring poetry is
the first example of a prayer or
hymn whose sole purpose is to
praise God rather than petition God
for help or intervention.
Shirat Ha Yam is recorded in the
Torah in a unique poetic language
and style. The power of this hymn
struck the framers of our liturgy so
much that this ancient prayer is
repeated each day in our morning
service. Examples such as Mi
Chamocha (Who is like unto thee O
Lord?) are found in both the evening
and morning prayers.
The Shabbat on which the weekly
portion of B’Shalach is read is
known as Shabbat Shira: the
Sabbath of Song. This year, Shabbat
Shira will occur on January 31.
Shirat Ha Yam is chanted by
interspersing the beautifully melodic
Cantillation of the Song of Songs
with the regular Torah Cantillation
melody. The Song of the Sea is not
the only special poetry recited on
Shabbat Shira. The Haftara for that
Shabbat contains the song of
Deborah which describes how the
heroine Yael saves the Hebrews by
slaying the mighty despot Sisera
with a tent pin (you will have to
come to Shul to get the whole story).
Shabbat Shira is a time to reflect on
the important role that music and
song plays in our lives as Jews. Not
only is music the preferred
Sisterhood Plans
Special Shabbat Celebration
To take part in the service, sign up online, or contact Lisa at lglieb@yahoo.com
or M’Lee at mlee011@gmail.com. They will find a place for you!
From Kol Nidre to Yiddish lullabies
to Ladino love songs to the modern
sounds of Israeli rock and roll,
Jewish music is a vital part of the
Jewish soul. Thus it is fitting that
Shabbat Shira, the Shabbat on
which we read one of the earliest
and most striking incidence of
musical expression, be dedicated to
Jewish music.
Please come and pray with us on
Friday night, January 30, the eve of
Shabbat Shira. Our regular Friday
Night service will be enhanced by a
special vocal group who will be
adding their voices to ours in joyous
and meaningful prayer.
Hazzan Michael Krausman
Join Us
for
Shabbat Shira
Our annual Sisterhood Shabbat is scheduled for Saturday, January 31,
at 9:30 a.m., and we hope you’ll join us for this special morning. The
service will be led by the women of Beth El, and chairmen Lisa Lieb
and M'Lee Hasslinger invite everyone to participate.
Whether you feel comfortable participating in English or Hebrew, if you
would like an aliyah, or even if you just show up to support the fantastic
women of Beth El, join us as we celebrate the vital role women play in
Judaism. Services will be followed by a light Kiddush lunch.
mechanism for expressing our
deepest emotions, but it is the
vehicle which transports prayers
from our hearts to the gates of
heaven. So many of our best and
most precious memories are
associated with and cradled within
our musical heritage. Jewish music
can even be used to enhance the
atmosphere of our homes.
Friday, January 30
6:00 pm
Kabbalat Shabbat Service enhanced
by special music featuring our
Shabbat Shira Singers
Have a Cup of Coffee with God
Saturday, January 17, 9:30 a.m.
Join Hazzan Michael Krausman for another session of this innovative learning service.
The coffeepot will be on and the sweets will be plentiful. Grab a nosh, fill your cup and satisfy
your appetite for knowledge and spiritual growth as we daven and learn together.
Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org
3
Support the Buy Beth El Program
New Roles Enhance
Support Staff Team
The professional staff at Beth El has
recently seen some important changes.
These new roles will enhance and
improve the synagogue experience each
and every time congregants contact the
office or are present in the building.
23 Years Ends on the 23rd
(continued from page 1)
together in one place.” Soon after, the school was
renamed BESTT – Beth El Synagogue Talmud Torah.
Scott Littky, past Beth El education director and now
program director at Temple Israel, remembered
working with Jeanne. “I was always fortunate to have
Please, when in the building, stop by the Jeanne right by my side to provide advice and guidance
office and welcome Tamara Forte. She as I learned how to be an education director.”
recently joined our staff as a full time
executive secretary. In addition to her
Jeanne has worked alongside five school directors and always loved being
regular responsibilities, Tamara is the
around the kids. “In the beginning, school was in session every day, different
point person for assisting anyone
days for different ages, so we had children running through the halls every
needing to get in touch with Rabbi
afternoon. It was great and, of course, what I will miss the most are the kids
Abraham and Hazzan Krausman.
running into the building and waving hello or stopping in to say hi,” she remarked.
Already her positive attitude and great
smile have been a welcome addition!
Judy Bisman Rubin, Educational Director of BESTT from 2004-2012, shared,
“These four things come to mind when I think of Jeanne Shechet and BESTT:
Cait Leff has assumed additional
She is great with the students and parents, loyal, reliable and a dear friend. She
responsibilities in accepting a new role was warm and open in greeting parents and comforting to students who were
as Office Manager. We are thrilled that not feeling their best. Jeanne was a loyal employee of BESTT and previously
she is taking on more responsibility.
UTTO and held the school's institutional history. She once "rescued” me when
an opossum invaded my home and shared stories with me of her children and
And, while Judy Tully has chosen to
grandchildren. Best of luck to Jeanne in this next chapter of her life.”
scale back her schedule a bit, we are
pleased we can continue taking advantage Rabbi Steven Abraham added, “Jeanne has been a valuable part of our
of her expertise (what a bonus!) and the synagogue and our school for over 20 years. Whether answering the phone or
continuity she provides in the office.
welcoming our students into the building, Jeanne has been a constant at Beth El.
She will be sorely missed, and we thank her from the bottom of our hearts for all
Our congregation is fortunate to have a the love she has shown our synagogue, our congregants, and most importantly to
strong support staff that, despite the wide our children.”
diversity of their individual roles, executes
great teamwork and professionalism on “I’ve seen so many kids grow up, it’s hard to believe they return to the school
our behalf each and every day.
now as young adults and I recognize them as the toddlers who first ran through
the school hallways,” Jeanne remarked.
She recalled one 3 year old who would come into the school office when her
mom arrived for 5:30 pm minyan. She would always sit at Jeanne’s desk and
color pictures of fruit and today, Jeanne says, she still stops in when she’s home
visiting from college.
Jeanne still keeps an electric typewriter on her desk, saying it’s handy for a quick
envelope. With great amusement, she recalled that recently a curious 8 year old
asked what the machine was and if he could touch it!
Stories like these made Jeanne love her job, but, after so many years, she feels it’s
time to finally make herself a priority.
“We are very grateful to Jeanne for her years of dedicated service to Beth El
Synagogue, not only as the school's secretary but as an integral member of the
support staff," said Beth El Executive Director Larry DeBruin. “Her knowledge
of school operations over these past 23 years has provided strong continuity for
our Hebrew and Sunday schools as we've undergone transformation from
UTTO to BESTT. We wish her the very best in her future retirement endeavors.”
Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org
4
Support the Buy Beth El Program
Young Leaders
BESTT Calendar
January 2015
By Betsy Goodman,Youth Director
As we move from Genesis to Exodus, a young leader
emerges out of Egypt. The circumstances of Moses’ birth
are an example of the selflessness demanded of a leader.
In USY and Kadima I see leadership coming in many
faces and forms. In our younger children at Beth El
Synagogue, I also see forms of leadership and selflessness. Whether this be
mentoring each other in Hebrew lessons, or begging for the opportunity to plan
a program all by themselves, our congregation abounds with many young
leaders.
Kadima has taken a lot of initiative this year. Beginning this month, Kadima
will have monthly meetings and programming. Kadima also has a general
board once again; I recall Kadima elections in my 7th grade year, and the boost
of leadership skills I received through my experience with BILU USY. These
leadership skills will aid in communication, relationships, achievement, and
many more facets of daily life. If your children are not involved yet, please urge
them to give it a try; we have lots of fun!
USY has just returned from Kinnus in St. Paul, MN. These young adults have
conversations about worldly issues with such complexity and wit that it blows
me away. We are beginning to gear up for Purim. Our president Elissa Wiener
has been chairing Purim Carnival for years and is ready to pass the torch to
Zach Stein and Jake Spivack. We will also have some Kadima co-chairs yet to
be announced. Expect a call from us soon!
4 BESTT Hebrew School
9:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
7 BESTT Hebrew School
4:15 - 6:15 p.m.
High School Dinner & Classes
6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
10 Shabbat’s Cool - Grades K-7
10:00 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.
Shul-In - Grades 3-7
Saturday 12:45 p.m. - Sunday 9:45 a.m.
Havdallah Under the Stars
6:30 p.m. - Grades 2 and Under, 7:00 pm All
11 BESTT Hebrew School - Grades K-2 Only
9:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Torah Tots
10:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
14 BESTT Hebrew School
4:15 - 6:15 p.m.
BESTT High School
6:45 - 8:30 p.m.
17-18 No BESTT or Jr. Congregation
Martin Luther King Weekend
Betsy Goodman
21 BESTT Hebrew School
4:15 - 6:15 p.m.
BESTT High School
6:45 - 8:30 p.m.
23 Family Shabbat - Led by Grades 5-6
6:00 p.m. Service, followed by Oneg
24 Jr. Congregation
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
25 BESTT Hebrew School
9:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Torah Tots
10:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
28 BESTT Hebrew School
4:15 - 6:15 p.m.
BESTT High School
6:45 - 8:30 p.m.
31 Jr. Congregation
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Kadima Goes Ice Skating
Sunday, January 11, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Moylan Ice Plex
Join your friends from Kadima for an afternoon of skating at Moylan Ice Plex, 12550 West Maple Road.
Cost: $8 per person plus snack money. RSVP to Betsy at 402-321-1806 by January 7.
Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org
5
Support the Buy Beth El Program
2014 Life & Legacy Challenge Reached; New Challenge Set for 2015
We are thrilled to share two exciting announcements regarding Beth El’s Life and Legacy Campaign. Through the
generosity of the donors listed below (new donors in bold), we have achieved our challenge goal of an additional one
million dollars for our Life and Legacy campaign. We are sincerely grateful to our anonymous donor who stepped forward
with this significant opportunity.
We have even more exciting news! We have been offered an additional opportunity for 2015. If the synagogue can match
an additional $500,000 in gifts for 2015, our donor will raise the initial match commitment from $1 million to $1.5 million.
One challenge achieved, another to tackle!
Rabbi Steven and Shira Abraham, John Atherton and Marti Rosen-Atherton, Ellie Batt, Ron and Cheryl Cooper, Deborah
Denenberg, Yonathan and Liz Feldstern, the H. Lee and Carol Gendler Charitable Fund, Sherman and Darlene Golbitz,
Alan Goodman, Andy and Carole Greenberg, Sylvia Jess, Marcel and Ilse Kahn, Myron Kaplan, Gloria Kaslow, Howard
Kaslow, Howard Kooper, David and Shane Kotok, Howard and Nancy Kutler, Stanley and Evelyn Mitchell, Alan and
Janie Murow, Allan Noddle, Patty Nogg, Steve Nogg, Alan Parsow, Carol Parsow, Marty and Iris Ricks, Carl Riekes, Zoe
Riekes, Margo Riekes, Steve Riekes, Lloyd and Debbie Roitstein, Ed and Carol Schneider, Mr. and Mrs. Ben Shapiro, Steven
and Marilyn Tipp, Norman and Joodi Veitzer, Jim and Esther Wax, Morley and Charlotte Zipursky and 4 anonymous donors.
You can help us achieve our new match challenge and more importantly, ensure the future of Beth El Synagogue with your
own life and legacy gift. If you are interested in learning more about how you can participate in Beth El Synagogue’s Life
& Legacy campaign, please contact either Campaign Chairman Lloyd Roitstein at lloydroitstein@gmail.com or executive
director Larry DeBruin at exec@bethel-omaha.org. You may also visit www.bethel-omaha.org for more information and to
complete a letter of intent online.
It’s a Wrap!
February 1 is the date of the World Wide Wrap! Beth El
will join with congregations around the world to learn
and celebrate the mitzvah of wrapping Tefillin.
A signature program of the Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs, 2015 marks the 20th year for this concerted effort to educate
and embrace this ancient mitzvah and link past and future generations to the ritual. The World Wide Wrap, according to Orin Rotman, the program’s chairman, focuses on the unique ritual spanning ages
and generations. “We bind up, we engage, we use our whole bodies, we share ourselves as symbols for others while we
involve ourselves in very personal and soul searching moments,” he continued. “We use Tefillin as the vehicle by which we
express our personal and community values.”
At 8:45 a.m., just prior to morning minyan on Sunday, February 1, Rabbi Abraham and Hazzan Krausman will give a
hands-on demonstration on how to wrap Tefillin. Men’s Club members will also be on hand at minyan with extra sets of
Tefillin for all those participating. Following minyan at a light breakfast hosted by Men’s Club, our clegy will continue the learning with a brief presentation
regarding the hows, whys, and spiritual contexts of laying Tefillin.
According to the Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs, the following is correct terminology when learning how to wrap:
• Batim - the black leather boxes.
• Retsuot - the straps.
• Parshiot - the scrolls containing passages from Sh’mot (Exodus) and D’varim (Deuteronomy) which are inside the Batim.
• Rosh - goes on the head.
• Yad - goes on the arm.
Hazzan Krausman plans to wrap our BESTT students into the morning’s learning. Following breakfast, at an assembly,
Hazzan will open the Batim, the black leather boxes, so the students can peek inside the Tefillin. The children will also be
able to learn how to wrap Tefillin themselves.
For more information, contact Men’s Club President, Jason Blair at theblairs@rocketmail.com.
USY Winter Shabbaton - The Wonderful World of EMTZA
January 23-25, Congregation Beth Shalom - Overland Park, KS
Details online at www.bethel-omaha.org
Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org
Support the Buy Beth El Program
6
President’s Corner
I am so pleased at the support Beth El receives from its congregants. It is truly rewarding to see how
our members help!
We have just learned that we have achieved Life and Legacy commitments to match the $1,000,000
challenge by an anonymous donor. Thank you to the thirty plus congregants who have made pledges
to support Beth El with a future gift. No money is required now, only a commitment for future support.
We hope it will be many years before we receive those funds. The over two million dollars of promised
funding to our endowment will benefit and support future generations of Beth El members.
While the pledges already made are substantial and a great start, there is still the continuing need to plan for our future.
We ask that each of you think now about how you can ensure a strong future for generations to come. A 1% or 2% share
of an estate is just one way to help. Please contact Lloyd Roitstein, our Life & Legacy chair, or Larry DeBruin for more
information and ideas on how you can help guarantee a strong future for Beth El Synagogue.
There is another group of Beth El congregants I want to thank. Those are the individuals who help make sure there is a
Minyan at our daily services. Beth El is the only synagogue in Omaha that holds twice a day Minyan. When you are
saying Kaddish, ten Jewish adults are required to complete a minyan. There is a dedicated crew of "regular" Minyannaires
and we usually have the required minimum of ten, but it is not always possible for them to be there. It is very difficult
when you want to say Kaddish for a loved one and there isn't a Minyan, but each one of you can help! Pick one day of
the month; your birthday or a day of the week, and attend our daily Minyan. It is amazing how a commitment this small
can have a huge impact; reaching out to others is what makes our congregation a community.
I also want to thank the many volunteers who help the synagogue and the Omaha community each month. You can read
in this issue about the many opportunities available, ranging from assistance with Men’s Club or Sisterhood activities to
Social Action projects. Check out our weekly email announcements, our website, or the mid month mailer to stay up-todate on the many events going on.
Thank you for everything you currently do for Beth El and what you can do in the future!
Joel Rich
President, Board of Trustees
Minyannaires
Thanks to these members of Beth El who attended at least one daily service between October 22 and December 11:
Rabbi Steven Abraham • Alvin Abramson • Brandy Bailey King • Diane Axler Baum • Ann Belmont • Wendy Berenson
Jason Blair • Michael Blatt • Sharon Brodkey • William Cohen • Rose Cooper • Hanna DeBruin • Larry DeBruin • Jay
Durmaskin • Stanley Edelstein • Ronald Epstein • Liz Feldstern • Yonatan Feldstern • Beverly Fellman • Richard Fellman
Glen Fineman • Hollie Fineman • Morris Friedman • Michael Gerson • Donald Goldstein • Betsy Goodman • Michael
Goodman • Miriam Gottlieb • Andrew Greenberg • Lea Grunkin • Marjorie Gutnik • M'Lee Hasslinger • David Herzog
Julianne Dunn Herzog • Sarah Kader • Marcel Kahn • Howard Kaiman • Howard Kaplan • Gloria Kaslow • Howard
Kaslow • Judith Katskee • Milton Katskee • Leslie Kay • Steve King • Ari Kohen • David Kotok • Shane Kotok • Laurel
Krausman • Hazzan Michael Krausman • Zach Krausman • Zev Krausman • Larry Kronick • Isaac Kurtzman • Emily
Kutler • Joan Latchaw • Scott Lustgarten • Thelma Lustgarten • Joan Marcus • Myron Marcus • Lynda Mirvish • Allen
Morris • Anna Mosenkis • Igor Mosenkis • Jane Murow • Carol Nathan • Ira Nathan • Dennis Paley • Steve Pitlor • Karen
Pollak • Merle Potash • Amy Reynolds • Joel Rich • Mary Rich • Steven Riekes • Caryn Rifkin • Gary Rifkin • Nancy Rips
Debra Roitstein • Lloyd Roitstein • Dorothy Rosenblum • Ernie Saltzman • Kevin Saltzman • Linda Saltzman • Rosalie
Saltzman • Edward Schneider • Amanda Simon • Tootie Simon • Marsha Simon • Michelle Simon • Nancy Skid • Jacob
Spivack • Marcie Spivack • John Stern • Judith Tully • Stewart Tully • Phyllis Wasserman • Esther Wax • Jim Wax • Jan
Wayne • Philip Wayne • Steven Wees • David Wiesman
The KOL is Sponsored by
T h e Be t h El Judai ca Shop
Gift Certificates Available
Judaica Shop Hours: Wed. 2:30 - 5:00 p.m. & Sun. 10:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
(when BESTT is in session)
Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org
Support the Buy Beth El Program
7
Beth El Cemetery Expansion Progress
Our plans for the expansion of Beth El’s cemetery are progressing
from a vision to reality. We again want to thank those who have made
a commitment to this project.
Many sponsorship opportunities still remain to underwrite the needed
improvements both in the old and new sections of the cemetery. Consider a gift that will be remembered for many generations to come.
If you would like a personal visit to discuss these giving opportunities,
contact Lloyd Roitstein at lloyd.roitstein@gmail.com, Gary Nachman at
gn1877@gmail.com or Larry DeBruin at exec@bethel-omaha.org.
“It’s Not What One Says but Rather What One Does, that Makes All
the Difference in the World” - Pirkei Avot
Beth El’s Social Action committee is planning two projects in January on the Sundays preceding and following Martin
Luther King Day. Following their previous “Week of Giving Back” during Chanukah a few years ago, they selected this
week in order to honor Dr. King’s memory. In King’s own words, "Life's most persistent and urgent question is: 'What are
you doing for others?'
Dave Cohen, who co-chairs the Social Action committee with his wife Karla, heard Danny Siegel, the "The Pied Piper of
Tzedakah," speak last fall when Siegel was Beth El’s Scholar-in-Residence. Inspired by Siegel’s words, “It’s not the thought
that counts; it’s the doing, the action that changes the world,” Dave stepped forward to chair “Bowling for Babies.”
On Sunday January 18, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Sempek’s Bowl, 20902 Cumberland Dr, Elkhorn, individuals and families
are invited to this creative and fun event supporting Jewish Family Services. Cost to participate is $18 per person which
includes 90 minutes of bowling, shoes, and a $5 voucher good for beverages and snacks. We are also asking that people
bring items needed for babies such as formula, diapers, wipes, clothing and
toys. All proceeds will be donated to the JFS panty to help families in need.
We Share Your Joy
Cheryl Lerner has organized an afternoon of service at the Food Bank for the
Heartland, 10525 ‘J’ St., planned for Sunday, January 25, from 1:00 to 3:30
p.m. All participants are asked to bring a non-perishable food item for donation.
“Much of the good work that the Food Bank for the Heartland does is
accomplished by volunteers,” said Cheryl. “The services they provide make
it possible for the Food Bank to continue feeding the hungry in Nebraska
and western Iowa. Sign up online at www.bethel-omaha.org; for more
information, contact Lerner at cldancer@aol.com.
“I encourage everyone to be informed about the issue of hunger in our own
community,” she said. “Most of us are fortunate to be able to go to the
grocery store or out to eat, with little thought as to the experience of those
for whom a regular meal is an uncertainty and a meal out is a luxury. It is
our obligation as Jews, as human beings, to be part of the solution. When
you open your eyes to the need, turning a blind eye is no longer an option.”
Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org
8
On the Birth of:
• Gabriel James Gerson, Grandson of
Michael & Meta Gerson
• Hadley Caroline Nogg, Granddaughter
of Steve & Patty Nogg
• Tova J Ortmeyer, Granddaughter of
Richard & Joanie Jacobson
• Evan Benjamin Ray, Grandson of
Howard and Sharon Epstein
• Michael Dillon Sherman, Grandson of
Tuffy & Helen Epstein
Support the Buy Beth El Program
Men’s Club Corner Shalom Aleichem,
The first order of business is to give a big Todah Rabah to all of the volunteers who assisted with the
Men’s Club Annual Chinese Dinner. Without your help and support, this event would not be possible. We are
very fortunate to have such giving members in our community. Thank you for all you do!
Our next Jews and Brews will be a Whiskey tasting event on Saturday, January 24 at 7:00 pm. Join us
for some camaraderie and for an informal discussion led by the Spirit World staff.
As is the Beth El tradition, the Men’s Club will be participating in the World Wide Wrap on Sunday, February 1. If you
would like assistance in laying Tefillin the day of the event, please arrive by 8:45 am, and congregation members with
extra sets of Tefillin will be available for all wanting to fulfill this mitzvah. For more information visit www.worldwidewrap.org
or contact Jason Blair at theblairs@rocketmail.com.
We are always brainstorming ideas to attract new faces and more participation from the community. The club welcomes
any idea that promotes community building. Please consider stepping forward with an idea of how to help us further our
mission and tell us about activities you want the club to sponsor. The community will appreciate it, and we will support you! Be sure to sign up and join Men’s Club online through Chaverweb for the low cost of $36. Drop a check by the synagogue,
or mail one in. We need your membership, commitment, and support! Thank you and have a great month!
Jason Blair
President, Beth El Men’s Club
LOL with YAC at the
Funny Bone
Saturday, January 31
7:00 p.m. Wine and Spirits at Brix
9:30 p.m. Funny Bone Comedy Club
Featuring James Johann
Hosts
Jason & Laurie Epstein
Jimmy & Sophie Friedlander
Adam & Abigail Kutler
Details to Follow
Rosh Hodesh Women Wrap Themselves in Tradition
Egalitarianism, the belief in equal religious opportunities for both men and women, is one of the fundamental tenets of
Beth El. Among the most prominent religious items are Tefillin and Tallit.
Tefillan serves as a visceral sign that we bind ourselves to the pursuit of holiness and connection to God. Having for years
seen the black boxes perched only on male foreheads, the straps wrapped around only male biceps, the objects seemed foreign
and exotic to those who could not participate. The Talmud emphasizes Tefillin’s unique ability to capture holiness, but the
knowledge behind the act is what makes it so powerful. Wearing a Tallit is seen as a way to approach spirituality in a public
setting. Yet a review of the sources behind this ritual reveals a deeper understanding that makes wearing Tallit more meaningful. It is within this spirit of learning and community, that the women of Beth El will come together to learn from Rabbi
Abraham about the mitzvot of Tallit and Tefillin in Beth El’s Chapel on Thursday, January 22 at 7:00 p.m. Sponsored by
the Womens’ Rosh Hodesh Group, this event is being chaired by Caryn Rifkin and M’Lee Hasslinger. Following the
learning session, refreshments will be served and attendees will have the opportunity to browse and purchase a selection
of Tallitot and Kippot from Beth El’s gift shop. RSVPs to Caryn at crgr6175@aol.com or M’Lee at mlee011@gmail.com.
Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org
9
Support the Buy Beth El Program
This Kol lists contributions
received by December 10,
2014. Donations received after
that date will be listed in the
February edition of the Kol.
Ruth & David Platt Endowment Fund
Programming Fund
David & Ida Potash Endowment Fund
Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund
Yahrzeit of: Douglas Platt, Rebecca Platt
Recovery of: Tuffy Epstein • Yahrzeit
of: Toby Dolgoff, Chaya Dvora
Potashnick, Helene Wasserman
Contributions to Named
Endowment Funds
Selwyn Roffman Endowment Fund
21st Century Endowment Fund Jerold I. Rosen Endowment Fund
Lorri Anne & Saul Z. Davis
Endowment Fund Celia and Ben Schwartz Transportation
Endowment Fund
Yahrzeit of: Daniel Katzman
Yahrzeit of: Albert Davis, Lorri Anne
Davis, Martin Milstein, George Shrago
Drazen Family Summer Experience
Endowment Fund Recovery of: Allan Noddle, Judy Tully
Yahrzeit of: Arthur Alpert, Yale Drazen,
Martin H. Schneider
Yahrzeit of: Abe Roffman, Izzy Roffman
Yahrzeit of: David Rosen, Sam Ziegman
In Memory of: Ethan Wolfe
Stephen R. Skid Endowment Fund
In Memory of: Ethan Wolfe
Arnold Stern Endowment Fund Recovery of: Marie Shafer • Yahrzeit
of: Don Shafer
Willis Epstein Endowment Fund Contributions to Named
Synagogue Funds
Isaac H. & Ruth S. Friedman
Endowment Fund
Cantor Berkovits Music Fund
General Endowment Fund
Birth of: Evan Benjamin Ray • In
Memory of: Naomi Arav • Recovery of:
Tuffy Epstein, Marcel Kahn
Joseph A. & J. Alvin Ginsburg
Endowment Fund
Yahrzeit of: Vincent Felton, Joe
Ginsberg
Linda H. Lynn Kahn Endowment Fund
Yahrzeit of: Freda Gradman Shersky
Ilse and Marcel Kahn Endowment Fund
Birthday of: Stacie Bleicher, Susie Drazen,
Judy Katskee • In Memory of: Adele
Greenberg, Guinter Kahn, Fred Slavitter,
Miriam Wisnev • Recovery of: Tuffy
Epstein, Marcel Kahn • Yahrzeit of: Gloria
Goodman, Arthur Walker
Anniversary of: David and Julie
Herzog • In Appreciation of: Hazzan
Michael Krausman, Laurel Krausman
Recovery of: Tuffy Epstein • Yahrzeit
of: Dwayne Kushner, Sam Sacks
Early Childhood Fund
Yahrzeit of: Elaine Bernstein, Isaac
Lipshitz
Etta and Harold Epstein Chapel Fund
Yahrzeit of: Norman Abrahamson
General Fund
Alan S. Kulakofsky Endowment Fund
Liturgical Book Fund
Milton Marcus Instrumental Music
Endowment Fund
Recovery of: Tuffy Epstein, Carol
Schneider • Yahrzeit of: Betty Krasne
Lee Jane Parsow Endowment Fund
In Memory of: Naomi Arav
Torah Repair Fund
Yahrzeit of: Tzvi Rahmani
Youth Education Fund
In Memory of: Steven Lustgarten
Recovery of: Tuffy Epstein, Lloyd
Roitstein • Yahrzeit of: Sam Cohen,
Isadore Plotkin, Don Shafer
BIRTHDAYS
Yahrzeit of: Jacob Gross, Edith
Passer, Richard Stern
In Memory of: Forrest Krutter
Anniversary of: Jonathan and Renee
Fox • Yahrzeit of: Jack Fox
In Memory of: Reva Chapman, Cynthia
Schneider • Yahrzeit of: Max Bittner,
Zalman Friedman, Harold Karp, Ben
Kaslow, Abraham Kazlowsky, Lori Sweet
Cemetery Improvement Fund
In Appreciation of: Glen Fineman • In
Honor of: Happy New Year to the
Congregation • In Memory of: Naomi
Arav • Yahrzeit of: Norman
Abrahamson, Doris Cohen, Rose
Cohn, Ida Cooper, Martin Cooper,
Samuel Cooper, Michael Hoberman,
Benjamin Littky, Sondra Ostrow, Paul
Sacks, Ida Zoorwill, Ben Zoorwill
Forrest Krutter Memorial Garden Fund
Scholarship Fund
Yahrzeit of: Morris Cook
Yahrzeit of: Michael Herzog, Michael
Hoberman, Rachel Segall
In Memory of: John Shooter • Yahrzeit of:
Isaac H. Friedman, Ida Friedman
Anniversary of: Tom and Ellen Jaeger
Birthday of: Rabbi Steven Abraham • In
Appreciation of: Rabbi Steven Abraham,
Lloyd Roitstein • In Honor of: Glen
Fineman and Hollie Fineman, Steve
and Patty Nogg, Joel and Mary Rich,
Nancy Skid, Phyllis Wasserman • In
Memory of: Naomi Arav, Father of
Becky and Percy Kirk • Recovery of:
Marcel Kahn, Debbie Roitstein • Yahrzeit
of: Bertha Cook, Harvey Cooper, Clifton
Dreyfus, Eileen Siegel
Playground Fund
Birthday of: Gary Epstein
Barbara & Dean Frankel Endowment Fund Birth of: Hadley Caroline Nogg
With 5-year Multiples
Richard Bailer • Sarita Cooper
Catherine Cox • Mira Dennison
Audrey Epstein • Yonatan
Feldstern • Joshua Follick • Ellis
Goodman • Robbi Kolnick
Scherry Linsman •Alan Parsow
Cynthia Salkin • Martin Shukert
Phyllis Wasserman • Samantha
Wiener • David Wiesman ANNIVERSARIES
In Memory of: Naomi Arav, Guinter
Kahn Yahrzeit of: Edith Edelstein,
Haskell Edelstein, Margy Schneider
Mitzvah Meals Fund
Amy Nachman & Alan Potash
♥ Marcia & Steve Pitlor
♥ Elena & Michael Shnayder
♥
Yahrzeit of: Martin Cooper, Samuel
Cooper, Pola Lustgarten
Playground Equipment Fund
With 5-Year Multiples
Yahrzeit of: Morris Cook
Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org
10
Support the Buy Beth El Program
Visit our website: www.bethel-omaha.org
11
Support the Buy Beth El Program
9:00 am - Shacharit Service
9:45 am - BESTT
10:00 am - Torah Study
10:15 am - Torah Tots
1:00 pm - Food Bank Volunteer Day
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
25
9:00 am - Shacharit Service
9:45 am - Babies, Bigger Kids & Bagels
10:00 am - Torah Study
11:00 am - Adult B’nai Mitzvah
4:00 pm - SATO Bowling for Babies
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
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9:00 am - Shacharit Service
9:45 am - BESTT Grades K-2 Only
10:00 am - Torah Study
10:15 am - Torah Tots
11:00 am - Adult B’nai Mitzvah
1:00 pm - Kadima Ice Skating
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
11
9:00 am - Shacharit Service
9:45 am - BESTT
10:00 am - Torah Study
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
4
Sunday
7:00 am - Shacharit Service
10:00 am - Wrestling with
the Rabbis
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
7:00 am - Shacharit Service
4:15 pm - BESTT
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
6:45 pm - Hebrew High
9:00 am - Shacharit Service
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
7:00 am - Morning Service
6:00 pm - Kabbalat Shabbat
9:30 am - Sisterhood
Shabbat
10:00 am - Jr. Congregation
10:45 am - Mini Minyannaires
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
7:30 pm - YAC Goes to
Brix & FunnyBone
31
30
29
28
27
26
7:00 am - Shacharit Service
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
9:30 am - Shabbat Services
10:45 am - Mini Minyannaires
10:00 am - Jr. Congregation
5:15 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
7:00 pm - Men’s Club
Whiskey Tasting
24
7:00 am - Morning Service
11:30 am - Nebraska AIDs
Luncheon
6:00 pm - Family Shabbat &
Oneg
23
9:30 am - Have a Cup of
Coffee with God
10:45 am - Mini Minyannaires
5:15 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
7:00 am - Shacharit Service
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
7:00 pm - Women’s Rosh
Hodesh Group
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7:00 am - Shacharit Service
6:00 pm - Kabbalat Shabbat
Evening - Our Shabbat Tables
7:00 am - Shacharit Service
4:15 pm - BESTT
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
6:45 pm - Hebrew High
21
7:00 am - Shacharit Service
1:00 pm - Shanghai Class
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
7:00 am - Shacharit Service
11:00 am - Wonderful World
of Jewish Music
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
7:00 pm - Board of Trustees
Meeting
20
7:00 am - Shacharit Service
4:15 pm - BESTT
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
6:45 pm - Hebrew High
7:00 am - Shacharit Service
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
19
7:00 am - Shacharit Service
10:00 am - Wrestling with
the Rabbis
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
7:00 pm - Women’s Book
Group
7:30 pm - BESTT
Committee Meeting
17
16
15
14
13
12
7:00 am - Shacharit Service
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
9:30 am - Shabbat Services
10:00 am - Shabbat’s Cool
& Shul-In
10:45 am - Mini Minyannaires
5:00 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
6:30pm - Havdallah Under
the Stars at UNO
7:00 am - Shacharit Service
6:00 pm - Kabbalat Shabbat
10
7:00 am - Shacharit Service
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
9
9:00 am - Shacharit Service
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
8
3
9:30 am - Shabbat Services
10:45 am - Mini Minyannaires
5:00 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
7:00 am - Shacharit Service
6:00 pm - Kabbalat Shabbat
Saturday
2
Friday
1 NEW YEAR’S DAY
Thursday
7:00 am - Shacharit Service
4:15 pm - BESTT
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
6:00 pm - Hebrew High
Dinner & Classes
7
Wednesday
7:00 am - Shacharit Service
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
6
Tuesday
7:00 am - Shacharit Service
5:30 pm - Mincha/Ma’ariv
5
Monday
January 2015
Beth El Staff
Steven Abraham ................................Rabbi
Michael Krausman ..........................Hazzan
Larry DeBruin ................Executive Director
Eadie Tsabari..............................Director of
Congregational Learning
Margie Gutnik ..................Program Director
Betsy Goodman ...................Youth Director
Melissa Massey .......................Comptroller
Laura Bair ........................Kitchen Manager
Cait Leff ..............................Office Manager
Judy Tully ............Administrative Assistant
Tamara Forte ..............Executive Secretary
Officers
Joel Rich .........................Beth El President
Ari Riekes ............................Vice President
Friday Evening
Candle Lighting Times:
Mincha/Maariv
Service Schedule:
Jim Zipursky ........................Vice President
January 2 ..........4:49 p.m.
January 3 .........5:00 p.m.
Jay Gordman ...............................Treasurer
January 9 ..........4:56 p.m.
January 10 .........5:00 p.m.
January 16 .........5:03 p.m.
January 17 ........5:15 p.m.
January 23 .........5:12 p.m.
January 24 ........5:15 p.m.
January 30 .........5:20 p.m.
January 31 ........5:30 p.m.
Jon Jabenis .........................Vice President
Caryn Scheer ...............................Secretary
Lloyd Roitstein.....................Past President
Lisa Lieb .................................BESTT Chair
Jason Blair ...............Men’s Club President
Heather Kelln ............Sisterhood President
Elissa Wiener ...................U.S.Y. President
Weekday Services at 7:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
Sunday Services at 9:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.