In this issue
October/November 2015 Tishrei–Kislev 5776
For more information, Calendar of Events, Rabbis' sermons, and for Emergency School Closings be sure to check our website at www. nssbethel.org or call 847-432-8900.
Pray Festival Service pg.3
Learn Afternoon at the Movies pg.7 USCJ Convention pg.20 Jewish Parenting Havurah pg.23
From the Desk of Rabbi Kurtz
Community Author Event pg.6 Congregational Shabbat Dinner pg.8 Robbin Scholar Event pg.9 Coat and Toy Drive pg.12 Thanksgiving Mitzvah Project pg.12 AIPAC Event pg.15 Jewish Life on Campus pg.19
Mission Statement We are a congregation of families and individuals who come together to pray, to study, and to create a warm and welcoming community. We seek to preserve and enhance our People's traditions within the context of Conservative Judaism. We aspire to strengthen our Jewish identity to meet the challenges of a changing environment. We endeavor to provide resources to help us relate to God, understand the ways of God and enrich the Jewish content of our lives. We encourage our members to serve worthwhile causes within our Congregation and the wider Jewish and world communities. We are committed to support Israel. We educate our children so they commit to the cultural, spiritual, and ethical values of our People.
Acharei HaChagim – After the Holidays In Israel, just before the onset of the High Holy Days, it is very typical to hear the phrase Acharei HaChagim, which means "after the holidays." This usually refers to the fact that people inform you that they are going to be busy in the next few weeks, so you might as well wait for whatever product or service you are requesting. In the Diaspora, as well, we must acknowledge that as we come close to Rosh Hashana, especially in synagogue life, where the High Holy Days are both extremely busy and take much effort, Acharei HaChagim is also very often invoked. For some people, probably for most people, Acharei HaChagim, usually means after Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur. These major holidays are the high point of the synagogue ritual year and once they are concluded most people return to their regular activities. However, for the synagogue, and thankfully for many people at Beth El, Acharei HaChagim means after Simchat Torah. After all, the holiday of Sukkot, followed by Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah, are highlights of the Jewish year and wonderful festivals in and of themselves. But after Simchat Torah, it is truly Acharei HaChagim. The fall holidays are over and it is time to move forward with the rest of the year. In our context that means that following the four weeks of fall festivals our regular activities commence in earnest. The challenge of synagogue life and of its membership is to continue participation in synagogue activities with the same devotion throughout the course of the entire year as was present during the festival season. As we come to the period of Acharei HaChagim I want to encourage our entire membership to take advantage of the many wonderful activities here at Beth El. We like to see everyone during the festival season, but we hope to see as many people as possible during the rest of the year as well. Our schools, the Paul S. and Sylvia Steinberg Pre-School, the Jack and Mildred Cohen Religious School, and the Miriam and Bernard H. Sokol Hebrew High School now get down to real business. With the holidays over, regular studies are the order of the day and we are very excited that so many students take advantage of the learning opportunities offered in our schools. Our day school students at Solomon Schechter Day School and Chicagoland Jewish High School finally have a full week of studies to participate in their dual curriculum program and extra-curricular activities. We are proud of all of them. All of our activities move full steam ahead Acharei HaChagim. Our Sisterhood and Men's Club move into a full court press with programming for people of all ages. Our Gertrude Lederman Family Continuing Education Program starts its classes, prepares for its scholars during the year, and offers many different opportunities, both at the synagogue and in the community, for continued adult study. Our Youth Community activities from the youngest age through USY start their programs in earnest and it is a great
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
1
From the Desk of Rabbi Kurtz Acharei HaChagim – After the Holidays (continued from page 1) pleasure to see so many of our young people take advantage of its many activities. Our Social Action Committee produces programs so that we can help people in our local community and beyond. In short, the regular year begins and we have the privilege of taking advantage of the many activities that are presented here at the congregation. Acharei HaChagim means that you can catch up on your reading at the Maxwell Abbell Library or see some of the movies that will be part of our Joseph and Mae Gray Cultural and Learning Center movie series. It also means that, as always, twice daily, our minyan meets. We are very proud of the fact that 365 days a year, morning and evening, we have daily worship experiences. We should never take them for granted. It is the true anchor of our congregation. So Acharei HaChagim come to the daily minyan, experience the beauty and sanctity of Shabbat services, and plan to be around the synagogue more than you were last year. Acharei HaChagim is also the time that we plan for the future. The months will go by and summer comes rather quickly. Plans
Shabbat Schedule
for our children already need to be made. We encourage you to think of Jewish camping, especially the Ramah Day Camp in Wheeling and the overnight camp, Camp Ramah in Wisconsin, as opportunities for our children to grow Jewishly and as human beings. We hope that both adults and young people will think seriously about traveling to the State of Israel this year in order to enhance their Jewish identity, explore their Jewish roots, and show support for our brothers and sisters who live there. Short term and longer term study programs are a marvelous way for our college students to take advantage of the Israel experience and its many educational opportunities. The High Holy Days and the Sukkot festival are highlights of the year, but should not and must not signal the end of our participation here at Beth El. Now, Acharei HaChagim, after all the holidays are completed, please get involved in your synagogue, encourage others to do the same, and let us continue to create a strong, vibrant Jewish community for ourselves and for future generations.
See calendar for times.
Shabbat, October 3
Shabbat, November 7
Sunday through Thursday Evenings, 7:30 pm
Shabbat Hol Hamoed Sukkot Torah: Exodus 33:12–34:26 Maftir: Numbers 29:26–31 Haftarah: Ezekiel 38:18–39:16
Sunday and Legal Holiday Mornings, 8:45am
Shabbat, October 10
Shabbat, November 14
Monday through Friday Mornings, 7:15am
Rosh Hodesh Mornings, 7:00am Services are conducted by: Rabbi Vernon H. Kurtz, Rabbi Michael Schwab, Hazzan Benjamin A. Tisser
Shabbat Mevarekhim HaHodesh Parashat Hayyei Sarah Torah: Genesis 23:1–25:18 Haftarah: I Kings 1:1–1:31
Shabbat Mevarekhim HaHodesh Parashat Bereshit Torah: Genesis 1:1–6:8 Haftarah: Isaiah 42:5–43:10
Shabbat, November 21
Shabbat, October 17
Parashat Vayetzei Torah: Genesis 28:10–32:3 Haftarah: Hosea 12:13–14:10
Parashat Noah Torah: Genesis 6:9–11:32 Haftarah: Isaiah 54:1–55:5
Shabbat, November 28
Shabbat, October 24
10:45am B'Yachad Family Service
Parashat Lekh Lekha Torah: Genesis 12:1–17:27 Haftarah: Isaiah 40:27–41:16
Services for families with children 1st grade and younger
Shabbat, October 31
Every Shabbat
11:00am Junior Congregation Services for students in 2nd–5th grade
Parashat Vayishlah Torah: Genesis 32:4–36:43 Haftarah: Obadiah 1:1–1:21
Parashat Vayera Torah: Genesis 18:1–22:24 Haftarah: 2 Kings 4:1–37
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
Parashat Toldot Torah: Genesis 25:19–28:9 Haftarah: Malachi 1:1–2:7
2
President's Corner by Richard Schlosberg As I write this we are just about to enter into the High Holy Days period. When you receive this bulletin, we will be looking forward to Hanukkah which begins this year on the evening of December 6. Our calendar surely drives much of what we Jews practice. Both the Torah and the oral tradition teach us the significance of time and date. The written Torah begins with the words, "In the beginning, G-d created the heavens and the earth." By the end of the first chapter of Genesis, G-d has worked for six days and at the beginning of Chapter 2, verse 2 says "and on the seventh day G-d finished His work which He had made; and He rested on the seventh day from all his work which He had made." The next verse says "And G-d blessed the seventh day, and hallowed it." By having no work done on Shabbat, the seventh day, man gains physical and spiritual strength. Some say that the celebration of Shabbat is the greatest gift Jews have given the world. In the oral tradition daily time-bound requirements and detailed responsibilities with respect to honoring Shabbat are manifest. The first commandment given to the Jews as a people, as they were about to leave Egypt, was the mitzvah to sanctify each new moon, which is the foundation of the Jewish calendar. Our calendar has served, in part, to demarcate holiday observances. It may be curious to some that to ensure that certain commandments were completed at their appointed times, four different New Years were established to provide boundaries and markers for these activities. For example, since the Israelites were required to contribute a tenth of the current year’s produce, they had to know exactly when the current agricultural year began and ended. The four New Years specified in Mishnah Rosh Hashana 1:1 are 1 Tishrei, 15 Shevat, 1 Nisan, and 1 Elul. Today most of us recognize two New Years, the first of Tishrei which is Rosh Hashana and January 1, which is the beginning of our secular year. Of course, we are bound by other dates as well. Beth El's fiscal year runs from July 1 to June 30. Federal and state taxes are due April 15. For a vast number of Americans, a truly significant national day is Super Bowl Sunday which this season occurs on Sunday, February 7, 2016. Yes, in many ways the calendar dictates our observance. For us, the annual cycle of festivals and holidays punctuates our year. Selichot, Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Simchat Torah, Shemini Atzeret, Hanukkah, Purim, Pesah, Yom HaShoah, Yom HaAtzmaut, Yom Yerushalayim, Tisha B’Av, etc. – these are checkpoints and annual reminders of the many celebrations, tragedies and other seminal events in the amazing history of the Jewish people. Please do consider taking a step this year to deepen your understanding and appreciation of the calendar as it impacts all of our lives, or go after another subject of your interest. NSS Beth El offers our community an extensive variety of pathways to learn more about our core traditions and history. You can check out our offerings on our website, www.nssbethel.org. As the old commercial said: "Try it, you'll like it!"
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
2015/5776 Festival Service Schedule Hoshanah Rabbah/Erev Shemini Atzeret Sunday, October 4 8:45am..........Morning Service 6:09pm..........Candle Lighting 6:15pm...........Mincha/Ma'ariv
Shemini Atzeret/Yizkor/Erev Simchat Torah Monday, October 5 6:30am..........Early Morning Service 8:50am..........Festival Service 6:15pm..........Mincha/Ma'ariv Service 6:45pm..........Young Family Simchat Torah Program 7:14pm...........Candle Lighting 7:00pm..........Family Hakafot Service 9:00pm..........Simchat Torah Ice Cream Social
Simchat Torah Tuesday, October 6 8:50am..........Festival Service 10:00am........Hakafot Service 10:45am.........Simchat Torah Pray and Play 6:15pm...........Mincha/Ma'ariv 7:13pm...........Yom Tov Ends
Simchat Torah Honors During the Simchat Torah service this year, the congregation will be honoring three well deserving congregants for their outstanding service to the congregation. Kallat Torah: Lisa Rosenkranz Hatan Bereshit: Jeff Goldsmith Kol HaNearim: Gail Scully Please join the congregation in celebrating this joyous occasion. 3
We Welcome the Following New Members - Phillip and Melissa Block and their children Nathan and Rachel - Paul and Natalie Brown and their children Noa, Serafina, and Zachary - Michael and Alec Covey and their children, Levi and Tessa - Cara Faber - Elizabeth Graham - Joshua Graham - Jonathan and Marjorie Graham and their children, Griffin and Weston - Jonathan and Rachel Greenberg - Jonathan Keller and Lisa Azoory-Keller and their daughters, Kira and Maya - David Kiferbaum - Joseph Kiferbaum - Michael and Franci Kind - Jordan and Julia Klein and their son, Mason - Daniel and Jori Leeb and their children, Holden and Walker
- Eugene Lerner - Daniel Levin - Jonathan and Schuyler Levin - Rachel Levin - Sammy Matthew - Robert and Jacqueline Meyer and their daughters, Caroline and Cate - Joshua and Kate Moss - Adam and Allison Nemirow and their children, Rebekah and Jacob - Jonathan and Holly Reinsdorf and their children, Jack and Isaac - Matthew and Erica Shatzkamer and their children, Brody and Jaxson - Stephen and Rochelle Sotoloff - Hazzan Benjamin and Sarah Tisser and their children, Ethan and Talia - Brian and Leslye Whittman and their children, George, Lena and Sage
Congratulations To - Eleanor and Albert Boxerman on the occasion of their great-grandson's birth - Iris and Robert Center on the marriage of their son, Jonathan to Becky Nixon - Elizabeth and David Copeland on the engagement of their daughter Sarah to Jason Kovin - Sara and Steve Coven on the birth of their granddaughter - Nina and Mark Gaines on the engagement of their daughter, Jill to David Friedman - Linda and Dr. Wayne Goldstein on the marriage of their son, Scott to Jamie Cleva - Mindy and Jeffrey Gordon on the marriage of their son Matthew, to Shoshana Indenbaum - Mindy and Jeffrey Gordon on the occasion of their 30th wedding anniversary - Bryna and Rabbi Vernon Kurtz on the birth of their grandson born to Shira Kurtz and Avi Kaufman - Fran and Mark Levy on the birth of their granddaughter, Caroline Mallory Levy - Zella Ludwig on the birth of her great-granddaughter, Sadie Goldman - Annette and Stephen Ray on the marriage of their daughter, Jennifer Ray to Daniel Dresner - Cynde Munzer and Dr. Stuart Richer on the birth of their granddaughter, Claire Frances Adams - Marlene and Lee Rubenstein on the birth of their granddaughter - Sari and Edward Salinas on the marriage of their granddaughter, Jennifer Ray to Daniel Dresner - Susan and Elliot Solomon on the occasion of their 45th wedding anniversary - Bobbi and Len Tenner on the occasion of their 55th wedding anniversary - Millie and Robert Weber on the occasion of their 65th wedding anniversary
Condolences To - Julie Ehrlich on the loss of her mother, Marjorie Friedman Scherr - Scott Lederman on the loss of his mother, Renee Lederman
- Batya Retsky on the loss of her brother, Yosef Hakamian - Barbara Rosenthal on the loss of her father, Herbert S. Rosenthal, M.D.
We wish to thank the following members, guests and groups for sponsoring the Shabbat Kiddush: - Amy and David Baynash and Family - Marjorie and Leonard Birnbaum - Iris and Robert Center - Rolly and Stuart Cohen - Mary Ellen and Larry Goldsmith - Linda and Wayne Goldstein - Mindy and Jeffrey Gordon - North Suburban Beth El Sisterhood
- North Suburban Synagogue Beth El Men’s Club - Frances and Joel Rabinowitz - Annette, Stephen and Robert Ray - Sari and Edward Salinas - Joshua and Kathryn Silvers - Cheri and Howard Rubin - Bobbi and Len Tenner - Jacqueline and David Wolle
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
4
October – Tishrei/Heshvan 5776
Jason Garfinkel, son of Judy Chrustowski-Garfinkel and Douglas Garfinkel Shabbat, October 10
Jordan Behn, daughter of Susan and Stewart Behn Shabbat, October 17
Maya Cohen, daughter of Elizabeth and Joshua Cohen Shabbat, October 24
November – Heshvan/Kislev 5776
Alexandra Wirth, daughter of Jennifer and Michael Wirth Shabbat, November 7
Eli Gidron, son of Leah and Adi Gidron Shabbat, November 14
Noa Dayan, daughter of Elise Dayan and Dr. Steven Dayan Shabbat, November 21
Lucy Melinger, daughter of Jacqueline and Michael Melinger Shabbat, November 21
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
5
Joseph and Mae Gray Cultural & Learning Center Writer's Beit Midrash – The NSS Beth El Writer's Beit Midrash continues to meet every other Wednesday
morning in the Maxwell Abbell Library, 9:30-11:00am. Upcoming meetings are scheduled for: October 7 and 21, November 4 and 18, and December 2 and 16. All fiction, non-fiction, poetry, memoir, and essay writers (published or not yet published) are welcome for discussions, exercises, camaraderie, and critique. Contact Rachel Kamin at rkamin@nssbethel.org or 847-432-8900 x242 for more information and to be added to the mailing list.
Torah Fund Book Club The Sisterhood Torah Fund Book Club will kick-off the 2015–2016 season with a discussion of The Marriage of Opposites by Alice Hoffman on Saturday, October 3 at 12:30pm, facilitated by Rachel Kamin. Dreaming of an exotic life in Paris while coming of age in the Jewish community on St. Thomas, young Rachel is forced to marry a widower before falling scandalously in love and becoming the mother of Impressionist master Camille Pissarro. Copies of the book are available in the Abbell Library as well as at local public libraries and booksellers. New members welcome! To participate in the Book Club, please make a minimum annual donation of $36 to the Torah Fund Campaign. Contact Linda Gottlieb, Sisterhood Torah Fund Vice President, at lbgmom@comcast.net or call 847835-3101. The Sisterhood Torah Fund Book Club will continue on December 5, 2015 with a discussion of A Backpack, A Bear, and Eight Crates of Vodka, the Spertus One Book One Community selection. The author, Lev Golinkin, will present at NSS Beth El on Sunday, December 6 at 10:30am.
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
6
Joseph and Mae Gray Cultural & Learning Center North Suburban Synagogue Beth El @ The Chicago Festival of Israeli Cinema NSS Beth El is sponsoring the film Encirclements at the Chicago Festival of Israeli Cinema on Sunday, November 8 at 1:30pm at the AMC Northbrook Court. Reserved tickets will be for sale at Beth El for $12 each. When thirteen year old Aharon is selected for the great honor of carrying the Torah around the neighborhood during the Simchat Torah celebrations, he feels life is finally about to change for the better. But his selection causes age-old tensions between his parents to surface, and the symbolic happy ritual becomes a life-threatening struggle. This new film by Lee Gilat stars three of Israel's brightest lights, Lior Ashkenazi (Big Bad Wolves, Walk on Water, and Late Marriage), Assi Levy (Aviva, My Love, The World Is Funny, and Avanim), and Agam Ozalvo.
The Rissman Family Kol Ami Museum
Afternoon @ The Movies The Joseph and Mae Gray Cultural & Learning Center and the Hazak Senior Life Committee will host a special screening of The Prime Ministers Part II: Soldiers and Peacemakers on Thursday, October 8, 2015 at 2:00pm with commentary by Rabbi Vernon Kurtz. This companion installment to an expansive two-part chronicle of Israeli political leadership, Soldiers and Peacemakers, continues an insider's view of key events that shaped the Jewish state. Based on the bestselling memoirs of Yehuda Avner, the film recalls the ambassador's years serving as an aid and speechwriter to Yitzhak Rabin and Menachem Begin, voiced by Michael Douglas and Christoph Waltz. Open to the community, free of charge. Popcorn, candy and soda will be served! Please RSVP to Marcie Eskin at meskin@nssbethel.org or 847-432-8900 x234.
A new exhibit in the Rissman Family Kol Ami Museum, "Crafting the Bezalel Vision: Holy Sites, Biblical Characters, and Modern Heroes in the Land of Israel," features more than 30 leather bound books – including prayerbooks, haggadot, bibles, albums, and souvenirs – with copper and silver repousse images, along with other related items, by students and artisans associated with the Bezalel School of Arts and Crafts founded in Jerusalem in 1906. Join Lilach Schrag on Thursday, October 22 at 2:00pm for an exploration and discussion of this unique style and craft. Join the participants of this summer's Artist Beit Midrash for a reception and exhibit opening on Wednesday, November 11, 5:00–7:00pm, at The Arthur M. Feldman Gallery (465 Roger Williams, Highland Park).
Used Book Sale February 18–28, 2016 Save the date: The NSS Beth El Annual Used Book Sale will be February 18–28, 2016. Due to storage issues, we cannot accept donations before January 31st. Please plan to drop off your donations between January 31–February 17, 2016. Donations received before January 31 may be discarded. October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
7
Informal Education by Ali Drumm “And the old shall dream dreams, and the youth shall see visions..” (Yoel 3:1) In Pirkei Avot Chapter 5 Verse 22, the sage Judah ben Taima lays out a map for what should be dealt with at demographic intervals. He says, "At five [one should begin the study of] the Bible; at ten, Mishna; at thirteen [one becomes obligated in] the commandments; at fifteen [the study of the] Talmud; at eighteen the wedding canopy; at twenty to pursue [a livelihood;] at thirty strength; at forty understanding; at fifty counsel; at sixty elderliness; at seventy the power of the fullness of years; at eighty spiritual strength; at ninety bending over; at one hundred it is as if he has died and passed on from the world." So much for living until 120 – and I'm sure that my friends and family who are older than me might disagree with some of these milestones. The lesson I take from this teaching is that there is something to pursue and something valuable at every age and developmental stage. One of the most important parts of being in a synagogue community for me is being part of a diverse multi-age community. I do not think we are meant to live in a constant community of only peers. I see the search for peers in every part of my life – from the search for other preschool moms to the search for twenty-somethings in the synagogue to the search for a social life as a more senior member of the community. There is a lot to be said for a peer community. Certainly your peers will have the best chance of understanding you, and of commiserating with your struggles and sharing in your triumphs. Peers help you to feel normal and offer a phenomenal support system for moving through life. However, peers aren't the only ones who can offer these things. Older community members can function as stand-ins for parents and grandparents, aunts and uncles, older brothers and sisters. Having friends who are older than you can give you perspective on your current struggles, as well as advice and a sense that you will survive. It is important for those of us who are parents to have many parenting role models as we navigate that part of our own lives. As someone who has always worked intimately with a community of younger participants, I feel that having young people in your life reminds you of your own energy and passion and keeps you grounded in this world. I remember coming to Beth El and wondering why the b'nai mitzvah students weren't the focus of the Shabbat morning service the way I had seen in other congregations and communities where I've lived. One day I asked about it, and was privileged to receive this beautiful explanation that we would never want to give the message that Jewish life in any way culminates or leads up to b'nai mitzvah. On the contrary, these young people are joining our community in a special way as bound by the commandments of our tradition, but they are not more important than the babies being born, the people recovering from surgery or a harrowing experience, the weddings and the losses within our congregation. To the extent that we can honor all milestones within our community, I believe we teach each other an important lesson about the value of every October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
age and the worth of every person and potential relationship. Judaism constantly reminds us to learn from our sages and elders, in the hope that the passion of our youth can be tempered with the wisdom of experience. I also believe in the power of the quote from the prophet Yoel that both the "old shall dream dreams and the youth shall see visions." The beauty of our community is realized in both ages. I encourage you to reach out to create friendships and be in relationship with congregants of different ages. Holiday services, although we offer children's services which helps facilitate peer relationships, are a good time to come together as a whole community. On Friday night, October 30, we have a Congregational Shabbat Dinner in conjunction with the Irving and Janet Robbin Scholar weekend with renowned Jewish sociologist Professor Steven M. Cohen. Two Shabbat services are offered (family and traditional) and children's programming for kindergarten through fifth grade is offered after dinner. This provides an opportunity to come together as a community and socialize. If you can come, I hope you do, and if not, please take the time to look around and reach out beyond your peer group in whatever setting you normally join with our community. As one of our modern-day prophets, musician Debbie Friedman extemporized on the verse from Yoel, "and the old shall dream dreams and the youth shall see visions, and our hopes shall rise up to the sky. We must live for today; we must build for tomorrow. Give us time, give us strength, give us life."
Congregational Shabbat Dinner and Discussion Friday, October 30th 6:15pm Sevice and 7:00pm Dinner Family Name Seating Preference (on-time and mutual requests honored) # Vegetarian Meal(s) Please let us know here if anyone in your family has food allergies: # Adults Attending (ages 13 and up) – $25/each # Children (ages 4–12) – $15/each # Children ages 3 and under) – free Total # Attending Due Date: Monday, October 26 Prices increase Tuesday, October 27: $30/adult and $20/kids (ages 4–12) Children's Programming for grades K–5 after dinner 8
Join North Suburban Synagogue Beth El for the Irving and Janet Robbin Scholar in Residence October 30 - November 1, 2015 with
Professor Steven M. Cohen Steven M. Cohen is a Research Professor of Jewish Social Policy at HUC-JIR, and Director of the Berman Jewish Policy Archive at NYU Wagner. In 1992 he made aliyah, and taught at The Hebrew University, having previously taught at Queens College, Yale, and JTS. He has written hundreds of scholarly articles and policy-related reports, as well as a dozen books including The Jew Within (with Arnold Eisen) and Two Worlds of Judaism: The Israeli and American Experience (with Charles Liebman). He was the lead researcher on the Jewish Community Study of New York: 2011 and a consultant to the recently conducted Pew study of American Jews. Professor Cohen received an honorary doctorate from the Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies, the Marshall Sklare Award, and a National Jewish Book Award for Sacred Strategies: Transforming Synagogues from Functional to Visionary, of which he is a co-author. He serves as president of the Association for the Social Scientific Study of Jewry. Married to Rabbi Marion Lev-Cohen, Marion and Steven live in Jerusalem and New York. His daughter, Edeet is a public interest attorney in Israel, and his son Adam lives in New Jersey with his wife and two children.
Friday Evening, October 30th Congregational Shabbat Dinner and Discussion Cost: $25 for adults, $15 for children ages 4-12, children 3 and under are free Kabbalat Shabbat and Ma'ariv begin at 6:15pm and dinner follows at 7:00pm. RSVP to ekline@nssbethel.org or call 847-432-8900 by October 26th. Cost afterwards is $30 for adults and $20 for children ages 4-12.
Saturday, October 19th D'var Torah and Post-Kiddush Lecture
For more information about the Robbin Scholar Weekend, please contact Ali Drumm, Director of Informal Education at adrumm@nssbethel.org or 847-432-8126.
Sunday, November 1st at 10:00am Presentation to the Community
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
9
The Development Office by Nancy Kekst Make North Suburban Synagogue Beth El a philanthropic priority this year ! Don't forget to make your end of the year donations to NSSBE. You may make a Chesed Dues donation or a Kol Nidre Appeal donation at any point in the year. All donations received by December 31, 2015 will be included in your year end tax receipt from the synagogue which will be mailed in January. If you have any questions about gifts to NSSBE, please contact Nancy Kekst, Director of Development, at 847-432-8900 x262 or email nkekst@nssbethel.org. Do you work for a company that has a matching gift program? Inquire if our organization qualifies for a matching gift and we will help you with the paperwork. Did you know you will receive a complete deduction for any appreciated stocks you donate to NSSBE ? To arrange a stock donation, please contact the Executive Director or the Accounting Department for transfer information.
Welcome to B'Yachad!
Save Sathe ve tDate he Dat
e
North Suburban Synagogue Beth El North Suburb an Synagogu e Bet
h El
Annual Annual "Fun-raising" "Fun-raisin g" Event! Event!
We honor those congregants who have banded together as both Continuing and New B'Yachad Donors for 2015–2016. Words cannot express our gratitude for their very generous participation in our B'Yachad dues level program at North Suburban Synagogue Beth El this year. They are role models in our community. Continuing B'Yachad Donors:
New B'Yachad Donors (as of 9-1-15)
Harriet Bernbaum Eve and Richard Biller Gilbert Bogen Gail and Andrew Brown Bernice and Benjamin Cohen Rochelle and Leonard Foxman Penny and Jeffrey Hecktman Barbara and Stuart Hochwert Karen and Michael Kesner Sari and Mitch Kovitz Roberta and Jeffrey Kwall Andrea and Kenneth Saffir Lynn and Skip Schrayer Karyn and William Silverstein Sheri and Sherwin Zuckerman
Anonymous Cheryl and Carey Cooper Barbara and Lawrence Field Gary Gordon and Marilyn Hirsch Julie and Colman Kraff Tina and Joe Wolf
We invite other congregants to step up to the B'Yachad giving level for this year. An annual payment of $10,000* or more to the synagogue covers: Synagogue dues, a Kol Nidre Appeal donation, your Chesed Dues donation, two tickets to our annual Gala event, and Recognition on the Annual Giving Donor Wall.
3•5 3 • 5••16 16
*B'Yachad level membership benefits do not include religious school enrollment fees, any extra High Holiday tickets, memorial books, small donations or fees for synagogue dinners or classes. Without this generous level of support, we would not be able to continue our fine programming and resources at the highest level. It's not too late! For information about enrolling in the B'Yachad Membership program for this membership year or to consider it for next year, please contact Nancy Kekst, Director of Development, at nkekst@nssbethel.org or by calling 847-4328900 x262.
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
10
The Development Office by Nancy Kekst
Welcome to the Ner Tamid Legacy Society! The Ner Tamid – the eternal light – symbolizes the continuity of the Jewish people, as do Ner Tamid Society members who leave a legacy for the future by providing for the financial security of the Synagogue, the center of Jewish life, through a planned Endowment gift in their will or estate or a current cash gift. Since our kickoff in summer, 2014, we have added 23 new members to the Ner Tamid Society, joining our cadre of original members. Under the terms of the Create a Jewish Legacy–Chicago, we have met our goal for the first year of the two year program and earned a $10,000 stipend for our Endowment Fund! We are grateful to our Ner Tamid members and invite every congregant to leave your own Legacy by joining our Ner Tamid Society. Ner Tamid Society members are honored in a variety of ways, with invitations to special recognition events, acknowledgement in the Beth El bulletin and inclusion on a new donor wall. Requests for anonymity will be honored. To become a member of the Ner Tamid Society, or if you have already made arrangements for a Legacy gift and would like to inform us, or for more information about including Beth El in your estate plan, please contact Nancy Kekst, Director of Development, at nkekst@ nssbethel.org or by calling 847-432-8900 x262. Ner Tamid Members (as of 9-1-15) Anonymous Steve and Wendy Abrams Bernard and Fran Alpert Harvey and Jacqueline Barnett Scott and Karen Bieber Leonard and Marjorie Birnbaum Gerald and Annette Blumberg Jack and Barbara Blumberg JoAnne Blumberg ** Gail Feiger Brown Andrew Brown Ramona Choos Calvin and Lana Eisenberg Michael and Wendi Ezgur Ira and Elise Frost Ronald and Eileen Goldberg Jeffrey and Stacy Goldsmith
Scott and Gwen Heyman Herbert and Helene Isaacs Harvey and Ellen Jacobson Richard and Lois Janger Joel and Pearl Kagan Karen Kesner Michael Kesner Jeffrey and Beth Kopin Jeffrey and Roberta Kwall Victor and Arielle Levitan Mildred Lidov Cara Madansky-Stiebel Manny and Kathryn Marczak Larry Pachter and Sandy Starkman David Rosen and Amy Zisook Jeffrey and Lisa Rosenkranz Alan and Mally Rutkoff
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
Richard and Pamela Schlosberg Skip and Lynn Schrayer Phyllis K. Shalowitz Leonard Sherman Gregg and Rebecca Simon** Yadelle Sklare Mark and Mae Spitz Morton and Miriam Steinberg Mayer Stiebel Benton and Sandra Strauss Howard Turner Richard and Roberta Wexler Jeffrey Wohlstadter Frances Lee Zand and Pendri Shalem **New Ner Tamid Members
11
Social Action in Action The Annual Family-to-Family Thanksgiving Mitzvah Project Sunday, November 22 10:00am –Noon More than 100 families are needed to create festive baskets filled with donated holiday foods for Glenwood School families from Waukegan. To register, contact Kathy Stinson at 847-432-8900, ext 229 or kstinson@nssbethel.org. To learn more, contact Honey Bronson at honeybronson @gmail.com. Please note that the shopping list has changed from previous years. Please adhere to this list (No glass or perishables. Food need not be kosher): • 2 cans of cranberry sauce • 2 large bags or boxes of stuffing or beans • 4 cans of vegetables • 2 large cans of sweet potatoes • 2 cans of fruit or 1 pre-packaged dessert • 1 envelope of gravy mix • 2 cans of soup • 1 small bag of rice or pasta • A $20 gift certificate to Jewel • 6 oranges Please consider purchasing non-perishable groceries for • 1 bag of baby carrots Moraine Township Food Pantry in Highland Park.
Annual Coat and Toy Drive November 8th – December 6th The Social Action Committee will be collecting clean, lightly used warm coats, hats, scarves, gloves, and boots. Again this year, we'll also be collecting new, unwrapped Hanukkah toys. Please note that we cannot accept other clothing. Collection bins will be in the school and main office entrances. Items will be distributed to needy recipients at the Chicago Chesed Fund in Lincolnwood and other Lake County organizations. We need pre-school through adult coats and toys for all ages. Volunteers are needed to help sort and deliver on Sunday, December 6 at 10:00am. To volunteer or for more information, call Mira Temkin at 847-433-2109 or miratemkin@gmail.com. We need you!
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
Sign up Now for an Experience at the JUF Uptown Café October 20th, November 15th, and December 14th. Dinner or brunch are served at the Uptown Café, located at 909 W. Wilson. The SAC need volunteers (age 12 and older) to set tables and wait upon guests at the café. Contact Rocky Rubinoff at rochelle.rubinoff@gmail.com.
Don't Forget the "Take a Bite Out of Hunger Campaign" Did you know that twenty eight percent of students in District 112 live in food insecure households? The Social Action Committee is collecting donations of Kellogg's Brand (only!) Nutri-grain Bars and any brand of applesauce squeezers to benefit needy kids in Highland Park. Collection bins are located outside the main office and Religious School doors. Volunteers are also needed to make weekly deliveries to two Highland Park elementary schools. For more information, contact Jacqueline KottWolle at jkottwolle@hotmail.com. 12
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
13
Men's Club Sunday Mornings "Bagels for Your Brains" The very successful Sunday morning program, Bagels for Your Brains, resumes on Sunday, October 11, beginning at 9:45am directly following the Sunday morning minyan. Ron Bliwas will present on the topic, "Don't Let Your Life's Story be Forgotten." A host of different speakers are scheduled to share on other fascinating topics of interest and important information over the course of the year. Alan Silberman is scheduled to present, "What Happened at the World Zionist Congress and the Jewish Agency Board of Governors, and Does it Matter?" Date to be announced.
Summer Picnic & BBQ Bash with Sisterhood a Success On Thursday evening, August 13th, the Beth El Sisterhood and Men's Club enjoyed a BBQ on the patio outside of the Blumberg Social Hall. The weather was perfect for the event. Tables were set on the patio and in the Tea House. A sumptuous buffet table offered various appetizers followed by BBQ beef, chicken, sliders, hot dogs, corn on the cob, salads and fresh fruit. For dessert, warm freshly baked chocolate chip cookies were passed around to satisfy every one's sweet tooth with beer, wine and soda to wash it all down, there was nothing else left to be desired, and all for only $15. Close to 60 people attended this first joint BBQ. Many thanks to Jodie Mosk and Jeffrey Goldsmith who coordinated and planned this event. This was the first of many joint programs that are planned by the Sisterhood and Men's Club. There is no question that the event was a success, finding people staying and enjoying the evening until after dark. We look forward to next Summer to repeat this BBQ and to the coming months that will include other events for the Sisterhood and Men's Club members to enjoy.
Scotch and Steak Night The Men's Club Annual Scotch and Steak Night took place on Thursday, August 27, 2015. Nearly 70 men, including many new members, enjoyed a wonderful evening together of mingling, dinner and entertainment. Additionally, through the generosity of the members in attendance that evening, Tzedakah was raised to benefit synagogue programs. If you missed it this year, make sure you attend next year's event!
Hearing Men's Voices Program Resumes The well-received program, Hearing Men's Voices, resumes in October. The first is scheduled to take place in the evening of October 14, 2015. These informal discussions offer participants education about and insights into current, real-life issues facing men in today's society. The sessions are free to the community, but space is very limited. Each session is hosted at the home of one of our members, and begins at 8:00pm. The second Hearing Men's Voices session is scheduled for Monday, November 9.
On Sunday, November 15 at 10:00am, join us for a discussion of A Backpack, A Bear, and Eight Crates of Vodka by Lev Golinkin, the 2015 Spertus "One Book, One Community" selection, facilitated by Rachel Kamin. This memoir by a former Jewish refugee recounts his family's desperate flight from the Soviet Union in the late 1980's and his personal quest to retrace their journey years later to thank the strangers who helped them. Copies of the book are available in the Abbell Library as well as at local public libraries and booksellers. All are welcome! NSS Beth El will host the author on Sunday, December 6 at 10:30am. Michael Teplitsky is scheduled to present, "My Family's Refusenik Story: Leningrad (1980-1989)" on November 22. Mark your calendars to join us for both the morning minyan and Bagels for Your Brains.
More Upcoming Events – November 8, Keeper of the Flame, honoring Dick Blair for 2014 and Ernie Smolen for 2015; November 9, Monday Night Football at Beth El; and November 23, Joint Event with Sisterhood October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
14
Around the Synagogue & Community Holocaust Memorial Scroll Keeps Spirit of Torah Alive Beth El has the privilege of having a Holocaust Memorial Torah Scroll from the Czech Memorial Scrolls Trust in our collection. Hand-carried to the synagogue from London in 1980 by Judith and Roger Leff, the Scroll is on display in the Ludwig Foyer in the Jack and Mildred Cohen Religious School wing. A brochure sits in a side pocket of the case, telling the history of the Scroll and its community. Before being confiscated by the Nazis during World War II, our Torah Scroll was revered by the town of Prossnitz in Slovakia. There were three synagogues in the town and our Scroll was written in the 1800s, used in the synagogue for several hundred years. As part of our loan agreement with the Trust, our scroll was examined last year by Rabbi Yochanan Salanter from Sofer On Site, Miami, who was pleased with its current condition. Although our Scroll is not kosher because of its excessive torn and damaged parchment, it is taken out on Simchat Torah as part of our celebration. In addition, it serves as a teaching tool for our religious school students. The Czech Memorial Scrolls Trust just celebrated their 50th anniversary of the rescue of the Scrolls in 1964. For more information about the Holocaust Torah Scrolls, visit the Czech Memorial Scrolls Centre in London, England or go online to www.memorialscrollstrust.org.
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
15
Sisterhood Women of Beth El, Join Our Mission!
Wondering Why You Should Join Sisterhood?
The mission of Sisterhood is to provide an interactive environment for our members; support the congregation, its youth and religious schools; enrich the Jewish education and ties with Israel of our members; and support and unite with Women's League in the understanding and perpetuation of Conservative/Masorti Judaism. If you haven't already done so, please join us on this mission.
Because Sisterhood members form unique bonds of friendship that transcend the miles and years. Through these friendships, our lives are enriched, and we are truly a blessing to each other.
Rachel Ferber, President
Sisterhood Torah Fund Give to the heart of the Conservative/ Masorti Movement by supporting Torah Fund. Did you know that Torah Fund is an arm of Sisterhood and Women's League for conservative Judaism? Since 1942, Torah Fund has provided essential financial support for the education of rabbis, cantors, scholars, and other professional and lay leaders at the four Masorti Institutions of Jewish Learning.
When you join or renew your Sisterhood membership or send a Leagram of warm wishes for someone's birthday or anniversary, the effect of these actions is not always apparent. We recently received this note from long-time cherished Sisterhood member, Pearl White, who just celebrated her 99th Birthday! We want to share her note with you. Her beautiful words need no additional commentary!
Torah Fund needs your support. Our rabbis and other professionals have been supporting Torah Fund for many years by teaching our unique Torah Fund classes. Our tradition continues and classes resume Tuesday, October 13. Conservative Judaism Looks at Modern Issues with Rabbi Vernon Kurtz Tuesdays, 10:00–11:00am
Dear Beth El Sisterhood Members, I was truly overwhelmed by the birthday greetings of so many Sisterhood members. You have been in my thoughts and prayers for many years, having received much joy in being a member and a Sisterhood President. Please extend warm wishes to my wonderful friends and best wishes to all for a Happy, Healthy and fulfilling New Year!
Midrash for the Modern World with Rabbi Michael Schwab Tuesdays, 11:00am – Noon Conversational Hebrew with Alicia Gejman, Director of Formal Education Thursdays, 10:00–11:00am Torah Fund Book Club led by Rachel Kamin, Director of the Gray Cultural and Learning Center Shabbat, 12:30pm following Kiddush. While no contribution is too large or too small, you will receive this year's beautiful pin as a thank you for your contribution at one of these levels: Benefactor - $180, Guardian - $300, Associate Patron - $600, Patron - $1200, Scholarship - $2500, and Keter Kavod - $5000. No monies remain at Beth El. Please make all donations payable to "Torah Fund." Please join with women of Masorti congregations all over the world to nurture and assure the future of Conservative Judaism. Donation envelopes will arrive in the mail shortly or pick one up at Beth El or by contacting Linda Gottlieb, Torah Fund V.P. at 847-835-3101 or lbgmom@comcast.net.
Warmest Welcome to our New Sisterhood Members – Rochelle Sotoloff, Rachel Levin, Franci Kind, Marjorie Graham, Cara Faber, Erica Shatzkamer, Schuyler Levin, Rachel Greenberg, Elizabeth Graham, Kate Moss, Sarah Tisser, Judy Smiley, Rachel Sher, Robbyn Ratskoff, Sarah Fischel, Talia Derman, Diane Margolin, Selena Pestine, Sarah Rosenstock, Tamara Silver, Jacalyn Birnbaum.
Thank You for Your Support As the High Holidays conclude, I would like to thank our Beth El Family for again supporting Sisterhood's Rosh Hashana honey and card fundraiser. Your support helps us continue our annual contributions to Beth El. Todah Rabah to Mary Ellen Bowers-Goldsmith for her flawless administration, to Pam Schlosberg for her creativity, and to this year's "fulfillment" team: Allyson Rose, Barbara Hochwert, Linda Gottlieb, June Frydman, Millie Weber, Roz Kallish, Ruth Fischer, Sue Glover, and Susan Saper. October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
For membership information, please contact: Barbara Hochwert at 847-831-0271 or barbara. hochwert@gmail.com. 16
Sisterhood Upcoming Sisterhood Programs and Events Opening Fall Program Sunday, October 18, 2015, 11:00am Neil Steinberg, Chicago Sun-Times Columnist and accomplished author, presents: An Outsider's Insights On The Chicago Scene! An informative, witty, fascinating look at the Chicago scene: from Mayor Emanuel, unions, and Springfield politics to pensions and gun control and so much more! Steinberg writes a weekly column and a daily blog for the Chicago Sun Times. He is also the author of seven books. Please join us and bring your friends to share this great Sunday morning. Light refreshments will be served. For more information please contact: Barbara Hochwert: Barbara.Hochwert@gmail.com
Torah Fund Classes Beginning Tuesday, October 13 Lunch and Learn Tuesday, November 3, 12:15pm Not in Our Backyard: Understanding Domestic Abuse in the Jewish Community. A presentation by SHALVA. This year Sisterhood focuses on learning about SHALVA and supporting their mission.
Our Second Annual Breakfast with Rabbi Schwab Monday, November 9, 9:30am $6. Continental breakfast.
Delicious Simple Comfort Foods, taught by Chef Laura Frankel Thursday, November 19, 11:30am–1:30pm The days are getting shorter and colder. What better time to think about preparing some great, heart-warming comfort food – those simple, staple recipes for delicious hearty meals that your family and friends love. Join us for a tasty lunch, great new recipes for old favorites, and plenty of fun! The recipes are easy and timesaving. So, you'll be out of the kitchen in no time, relaxing and enjoying time and memories with your family and friends! Cost: $20. RSVP Deadline: Tuesday, November 10 Send check (made out to NS Beth El Sisterhood) to Pam Schlosberg c/o 1175 Sheridan Road; Highland Park, IL; 60035 Questions – Call Pam: 847-433-7546; email: pgs567@comcast.net
Game On! (a joint program with Men's Club) Saturday, November 21, 8:00pm
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
Menorah by Orit Grader
NSSBE Sisterhood Gift Shop Your Resource for Beautiful Judaica and Gifts Gift Shop Showcase: From the Hearts and Hands of our Favorite Artisans Sunday, October 18 from 8:30am–1:00pm As co-chairs of the Gift Shop, we have wonderful opportunities to visit trade and craft shows in search of beautiful Judaica and that perfect gift that we hope you'll like. We also enjoy meeting artists along the way. During our Gift Shop Showcase we want to share the works of our favorite artisans whose work we recently purchased in New York. Among these are some amazing Kiddush Cups by Agayoff. This Judaica is crafted in their Israel workshop located in Jerusalem. Their work is in anodized aluminum painted in vibrant colors. All their Judaica objects are unique, modern, and impressive pieces of art. Their contemporary pieces, like the Kiddush cups we have, are a modern version of traditional Judaica. Orit Grader is another artist we love. Located in Haifa, this Judaica artist creates traditional Judaica items with a natural theme. Orit works in brass which she then decorates with hand painted colors using shades of green, purple, pink, blue and red. Many of her products feature patina, a process of oxidizing brass that creates a lovely shade of turquoise blue but can also create other colors. We brought back a magnificent Seder plate that you simply have to see in person. We also added items to our Metalace line. Designed and crafted by Israeli artist Talia Abraham, each item is unique and unrivaled. Her work is inspired from the world of lace fabrics and embroidery using advanced metal processing technology. The items are magnificent! We have new challah plates, mezuzot, and tzedakah boxes. Finally, among the jewelry we purchased, was a one-of-a kind Mindcraft watch. The artist integrated time, art, religion, and tradition, with details such as the Hebrew letters imprinted on the bezel. The watch features clean, simple lines and beautiful copper round dials. We invite you to stop by and see these and so many more unique, beautiful, Judaic additions for your home or for that very special gift. And take advantage of the special discounts on selected items featured in our first Showcase. Light refreshments will be served. Regular Gift Shops Hours – Sundays: 9:00am–1:00pm and Tuesdays: 10:00am–Noon. We are always open to meet your needs – simply call us: Diane Levin: 847-571-5629; Sulie Holt 847-558-3389 or Pam Schlosberg: 847-433-7546. 17
Jack and Mildred Cohen Religious School and Miriam and Bernard H. Sokol Hebrew High School M'Shulchan Hamenahelet As the teacher, so is the school – this old adage is applicable to all schools, including our schools, housed in the synagogue. A good teacher has the power to inspire, empower, and help students discover new worlds. Teachers matter most; they are the ones who bring to life the school's philosophy. They, along with the parents at home, are entrusted to pass on the teachings of our tradition to the younger generation. Our teachers are expected to educate the whole child shaping his personality while instilling habits and Jewish values. This is considered a sacred task and a great deal of dedication is devoted to hiring and retaining the best teachers in our schools. We cordially invite you to come and meet the teachers on Sunday, October 18 from 11:00am to Noon in both schools: Jack and Mildred Cohen Religious School and Miriam and Bernard H. Sokol Hebrew School. Meet our Jack and Mildred Cohen Religious School teachers: Michele Friedland – Ganon (Pre-K) Jodie Mosk – Gan (Kindergarten) Chaya Minkus – Alef (First grade) Ariela Haymberg – Bet (Second grade) Edith Belkind – Gimmel (Third grade) Debbie Feiger – Dalet/Hey (Fourth and Fifth grade) Jewish Studies Efrat Hazaz – Dalet/Hey (Fourth and Fifth grade) Hebrew Noreen Ohcana – Vav (Jewish Studies) Orit Israel – Vav (Hebrew) Chuck Kahalnik – Gesher weekday (History) Lilach Schrag – Gesher weekday (Hebrew) Rabbi Vernon Kurtz, Rabbi Michael Schwab, Hazzan Ben Tisser and Aaron Klein – Gesher (Sundays) Hazzan Barbara Barnett – Tefilah Coordinator and Music Lilach Schrag – Art Rachel Kamin and Marcie Eskin – Library Stacy Daybook, Simcha Ackerman and Aziel Feifel - Halomdim Program Ilyse Soloto – Movement Chugim teachers: Hazzan Barbara Barnett, Tamar Berman, Richard Brener, Stacy Daybook, Orit Israel, Hadar Markin, Noreen Ohcana, Jody Schmidt, and Lilach Schrag. Meet our Miriam and Bernard H. Sokol Hebrew High School teachers: Pnina Arsers, Hazzan Barbara Barnett, Ali Drumm, Tamar Berman, David Chack, Aziel Feifel, Michele Friedland, Hayley Himmelman, Chuck Kahalnik, Rabbi Yehoshua Karsh, Aaron Klein, Rabbi Vernon Kurtz, Hadar Markin, Lilach Schrag, Carl Schrag and Rabbi Michael Schwab. Alicia Gejman Director of Formal Education
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
Jack and Mildred Cohen Religious School October/November – Tishrei/Heshvan/Kislev 5776 Oct 6
Tuesday
No School – Simchat Torah
Oct 10
Shabbat
Sixth Grade Family Shabbat Services
Oct 13
Tuesday
First Session of Chugim (Tuesday)
Oct 14
Wednesday
First Session of Chugim (Wednesday)
Oct 17
Shabbat
Sixth Grade Family Shabbat Services
Oct 18
Sunday
Open House – 11:00am to Noon
Oct 24
Shabbat
Sixth Grade Family Shabbat Services
Oct 31
Shabbat
Sixth Grade Family Shabbat Services
Nov 7
Shabbat
Sixth Grade Family Shabbat Services
Nov 14
Shabbat
Sixth Grade Family Shabbat Services
Nov 22
Sunday
No School for Students Parent–Teacher Conferences
Nov 25–29
Wednesday– Sunday
No School – Thanksgiving
Miriam and Bernard H. Sokol Hebrew High School October/November – Tishrei/Heshvan/Kislev 5776 Oct 4
Sunday
Ark on the Road (Levenfeld Sukkah)
Oct 18
Sunday
Open House – 11:00am to Noon
Oct 19
Monday
First Supper Club with Rabbi Kurtz and Rabbi Schwab
Oct 26
Monday
Supper Club with Rabbi Kurtz and Rabbi Schwab
Nov 2
Monday
Supper Club with Rabbi Kurtz and Rabbi Schwab
Nov 8
Sunday
Raining Seasons Presentation
Nov 9
Monday
Supper Club with Rabbi Kurtz and Rabbi Schwab
Nov 23
Monday
Supper Club with Rabbi Kurtz and Rabbi Schwab
Nov 29
Sunday
No School – Thanksgiving
Nov 30
Monday
Supper Club with Rabbi Kurtz and Rabbi Schwab
18
Paul S. and Sylvia Steinberg Pre-School Our 156 children have settled into the routine of the pre-school day and they are excited to explore their classrooms and Gan Sylvia, our beautiful playground. What a wonderful setting to experience nature and the changing seasons. The children have an opportunity to explore the many interest areas of their classrooms and the outdoors, experimenting, problem solving and forming a community where they learn to get along with each other. We continue to grow and our professional and caring teaching staff integrates Jewish values into all content areas including literacy, math, science, social studies and the arts. We are fortunate to enrich our program with a music and movement specialist, an atelierista (art specialist), and Shabbat music leader. This year we have added a part-time social worker to our staff. The children look forward to the visits by the Rabbis and Hazzan. Early childhood education is the gateway to Jewish life. Our pre-school seeks to introduce families to the joys of Judaism. It motivates our families to perform mitzvot encompassing ethical behavior, spirituality, Jewish learning and ritual observance. Our school begins with "Small and Tall" classes for adults and children from 6 weeks through 17 months. We continue with Adult/Toddler, Transition through to our Pre-kindergarten
Classes. Lunch and Enrichment classes are offered every afternoon to extend fun and learning. On Tuesdays we offer "Extraordinary Kids" a program for Pre-Kindergarteners. Once a month on Monday we welcome adults and pre-schoolers from our community to an open gym and story time – a free class called Marvelous Monday. Registration for next year begins at the end of November. Please call Caron Knopoff at 847-432-2830 or email cknopoff@ nssbethel.org for information and to schedule a tour. We look forward to hear from you. Caron Knopoff Steinberg Pre-School Director
Empowering Our Jewish Students on Campus A night for high school students, parents, and community members Featuring Eric D. Fingerhut, President and CEO, Hillel International
(former U.S. Congressman and Chancellor of Ohio Board of Regents)
Wednesday, November 11 North Suburban Synagogue Beth El 6:00pm–7:00pm Hillel Fair Representing Midwest Campuses – Meet Current Students and Staff! 7:00pm Keynote Address by Eric Fingerhut Parent and Student Discussion Panels to Follow Keynote Sponsored by: North Suburban Synagogue Beth El University of Illinois Hillel – Cohen Center for Jewish Life Fiedler Hillel at Northwestern University Metro Chicago Hillel The University of Chicago – Newberger Hillel Center Israel Education Center and Hillels of Illinois
Eric Fingerhut will address Hillel's dynamic role in developing Jewish identities and Jewish life on campus during the undergraduate years. Discussion panels to follow will highlight what's really happening on campus, including important challenges faced by today's Jewish college students. During the panels, high school students will have the opportunity to learn from current college students about engaging in Israel activism and Jewish life while on campus. Refreshments will be provided. To RSVP please contact Suzanne Storrs at SuzanneStorrs@juf.org or 312-673-2355.
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
19
Join NSSBE's Team as we gather together at this year's USCJ Convention in Schaumburg, Illinois. Our Clergy, Staff, and Congregants will be presenting! Rabbi Vernon Kurtz: Roadmap Genesis November 16 at 9:00pm www.shapethecenter.org/sessions/roadmap-genesis/ Rachel Kamin: What Are You Reading? The Latest & Greatest in Jewish Fiction for Adults November 16 at 5:15pm www.shapethecenter.org/sessions/what-are-you-reading-the-latest-greatest-in-jewish-fiction-for-adults/ Nancy Kekst - Group Presentation: Building your Endowment through Planned Giving November 15 at 3:15pm www.shapethecenter.org/sessions/building-your-endowment-through-planned-giving/ Samantha Isenstein - Finding the Right Youth Director for Your Synagogue November 15 at 11:30am www.shapethecenter.org/sessions/finding-the-right-youth-director-for-your-synagogue/ Professor Roberta Kwall - Cultural Judaism, Halakhah, and Jewish Identity November 15 at 3:15 pm www.shapethecenter.org/sessions/cultural-judaism-halakhah-and-jewish-identity/ Starting with an inspiring Shabbaton followed by two and a half days of sessions led by outstanding innovators, this year's convention will cover a variety of topics important to our community, including: Inclusion & Relationship Building Leadership Training Engaging Millennials, Interfaith Families & LGBTQ Jews Financial Stability Interactive Torah Study And much more! Walk away from the convention with tools, resources and action plans to engage and transform our community. Together, we can shape the center of Jewish life in North America. Register today at www.shapethecenter.org.
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
20
Top 7 Reasons to Attend the USCJ Shape the Center Convention Join the Conversation through an extraordinary gathering of leaders, thinkers and presenters brought together exclusively for this convention. You will find plenty of opportunities to engage in conversations on educational change, new ideas for your school, areas that you have never thought about and want to explore! Cultivate Relationships with your peers to share ideas and support innovations in your community. Share challenges and solutions with educational leaders throughout North America. And if you come as a team, there will be more people to gather relationships and ideas! Gain Insights and learn actionable tools for better engaging millennials, interfaith families, LGBTQ Jews, Jews with special needs, engaging families in the learning process, creating a vision for learning to take you into the future. Bring your family to spend Shabbat with members of our learning team! Check out Sulam for Learning Leaders—a new kind of Sulam action community! Or the Family Engagement Workshop Series! Or PJ Goes to School! Or the many offerings on Inclusion! You can even schedule time to meet with members of the USCJ learning team. Focus on Financial Responsibility by exploring new methods to ensure a sustainable future for your community. This information can also have implications for learning. Enrich Your Journey of Jewish life personally, and learn ways to lead the journey of your community at home. Collaborate as part of a team of effective change-makers to move your community forward. Invite others to come with you so that once you return to your congregation, the conversation continues! Discover new ways to turn challenges into triumphs!
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
21
Kol No'ar The Voice of the Youth–Beth El's Youth Community Mark Your Calendars for the Youth Community's Upcoming Programs! USY (9th–12th Graders)
Kadima (6th–8th Graders)
Thursday, October 1st 7:00–9:00pm Something in the Sukkah. Come to find out what were doin' in the Sukkah! $10 or Activity Pass.
Wednesday, October 7th 6:00–7:00pm Kadima Board Meeting, includes dinner.
Monday, October 5th 9:00pm Simchat Torah Ice Cream Social Saturday, October 24th 5:00pm Teen Minyan Mincha, Ma'ariv and Havdalah. Then off to Sky High Sports! $25 for members, $35 for non-members. Dinner will be provided at Teen Minyan. Sunday, Oct. 25th (Times TBA) JNF Teen Conference Tuesday, October 27th 7:00–9:00pm Chopped Lounge Night! $10 or Activity Pass. Wednesday, November 4th (Time TBA) Israel Film Festival Teen Showing at Northbrook Court Tuesday, November 10th 7:00–9:00pm Whose BEANS is it Anyway Improv night! $5 or Activity Pass. Friday, November 13th– Sunday, November 15th CHUSYFest @ The Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel. Register by going to CHUSY.org Wednesday, November 25th (Time TBA) Annual CHUSY Turkey Dance @ BEANS!
Sunday, October 18th Kadima is escaping to Enchanted Castle! Lunch will be served from 12:00–1:00pm. Meet in the Youth Lounge. $25 for members, $35 for non-members. Sunday, November 22nd Sunday afternoon Kadima Program!
Shalom Club (2nd–5th Graders) Wednesday, November 11th Days off Program! Saturday, December 12th Family Hanukkah Night!
M&M Club (K–1st Graders) Sunday, October 18th 11:00am–12:00pm Noah's Ark is coming to Beth El! This is a joint program with the Cohen Religious School. If you are in Ganon, Gan or Aleph Class this will be a part of your day! If you are not enrolled in the Cohen Religious School, please join us! This is open to all of our Kindergarteners and 1st graders! Still not a member of Beth El's award winning youth community? Contact Samantha Isenstein, Youth Community Director, at sisenstein@nssbethel.org or at 847-432-2040 for more information.
BEANS USY Basketball Team wants You! Games are at CJHS on Monday nights on the following dates – November 30, December 7, 14, January 11, 25, February 1, 8, 22, 29, and March 7. Practices will be Sunday nights as needed, at the Highwood Rec Center. We need a minimum of 5 players to have a team and can only take 10 people per team. If we get more than 10 we can start a second team! $100 per person, includes – referees for games and gym rental, practice time, and BEANS jersey! Must be a BEANS USY (8th Grade, Kadima) member to participate. Open to Jewish teens 8th Grade –12th grade, both males and females are welcome! October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
22
BEANS Youth Community has Started the New Year Off Right! All of our BEANS USY Executive Board members attended CHUSY Region's Leadership Training Institute. They spent the weekend working with their counterparts from other chapters and regional executive board members. BEANS USY had a kick off program at Dave and Buster's. Kadima had their Dessert Hop eating their way through downtown Highland Park. Shalom Club also kicked off their year in a big way with inflatables! Don't forget Junior Congregation is back this Fall and in a new location! Jr. Congregation will be meeting at 11:00am on Shabbat mornings in the Horowitz Hoffman Youth Lounge (South end of the building below the Zell). Make sure to mark your calendars for all of the Youth Programs that are coming up! The Youth Community Activity Pass is back with lower prices for the 2015–2016 school year. Instead of paying for each Lounge Night, Shabbat lunch or small program, buy the Activity Pass and pay ahead of time. Purchase of this pass covers you for the entire year. (Not including Regional CHUSY events and conventions, some large-scale programs like the "Annual Weekend of Greatness Overnight" requires an additional cost. This really only applies to Kadima and USY.) The fees for the Activity Pass are the following: USY–$150, Kadima–$100, and Shalom Club–$50. Special Family Rate – Families who sign more than one child up for the Activity Pass will receive a $15 discount per additional child. Please register for the Beth El Youth Community Activity Pass at tinyurl.com/BEANSpass. Parents, don't forget to Like the Beth El Youth Community on Facebook to stay up to date on all of Beth El's Youth Community programs, www.facebook.com/ NssBethElYouthCommunity, also be on the lookout for our Youth Community Google Calendar!
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
23
Ba'al Korei Institute Ba'al Korei Institute Shabbat 2015 The annual Ba'al Korei Institute Shabbat was held on October 3. This event is the Congregation's opportunity to recognize and thank our congregants who enhance our services by reading Torah on Shabbat, holidays and weekdays. As has been the custom, most of the Torah readers on that Shabbat were members of the Ba'al Korei Institute. Many additional Ba'al Korei members participated by leading prayers and accepting aliyot and other honors during the course of the service. A highlight of the morning was the very interesting and timely D'var Torah delivered by Hazzan Tisser. Karen Bieber, Chairman of the Ba'al Korei Institute, presented awards to those Torah readers who have reached benchmarks in their growth as Torah readers during the year. The following readers, who have each read Torah at Beth El at least 4 times at Beth El, received a Tikkun for use in preparing future readings: Gabriella Cooperman Beth Footlik Ilana Greenstein Joshua Gross Madison Hahamy Barbara Hochberg
Jack Koltin Arielle Levitan Anne Rossen Lori Stark Veronica Warner
Alan Miller, who has read more than 136 verses, was presented a certificate naming him as a Madrich. Rebecca Greenstein, who has read more than 236 verses, was presented a certificate naming her as a Manhiega. Leon Fox and Roberta Kwall, who have each read more than 500 verses, were presented certificates naming them as Shomer and Shomeret, repectively. They will each be awarded a silver yad engraved with their Hebrew names at the Tikkun L'ayl Shavuot next spring. Yasher koach to those receiving awards, and thanks to all of our Torah readers for their dedicated service to our congregation. If you are interested in learning to read Torah or would like more information about the Ba'al Korei Institute, please feel free to contact Karen Bieber at sabkrb@comcast.net.
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
24
Todah Rabbah
We are grateful for the following contributions:
Rabbi Kurtz's Discretionary Fund
- In honor of Bobbi Kwall's special birthday - Andrea and Lawrence Crain - Barbara Hochwert - Sandy Starkman and Larry Pachter
- In memory of Doris Smolen, beloved wife Ernest Smolen - In memory of Dorothy and Benjamin Schneider, beloved parents and grandparents - Charlotte Tayne Avraham
- In honor of G-d's blessings - Ronald and Eileen Goldberg
- In memory of Dr. Jacob Louis Levin, beloved father - Michael and Gigi Cohen
- In honor of Mary Ellen Goldsmith's special birthday - Diane and Steve Levin
- In memory of Edith Hartman, beloved sister - Melvin and Hedy Sered
- In honor of Sam's Bar Mitzvah and with appreciation to Rabbi Kurtz - Marc and Rachel Dorfman
- In memory of Edward Hyman, beloved father - Joan Holland
- In honor of the 60th birthday of Mary Ellen Goldsmith - Michael and Anita Katz
- In memory of Etta Kanter and Victor Kanter - Marvin and Joyce Juron
- In honor of the birth of our twin greatgrandsons - Bruno and Ruth Fischer
- In memory of Evelyn Cohen and with appreciation to Rabbi Kurtz - Stuart and Rolly Cohen
- In honor of the B'not Mitzvah of Barbara and Jack Blumberg's granddaughters Rebecca and Rena Lustig - Jeffrey and Roberta Kwall
- In memory of Evelyn Smiley, beloved mother - Judy and Stephen Smiley - In memory of Gerry Golden - Bradley Gordon
- In honor of the marriage of Scott and Kristina Ruderman and with appreciation to Rabbi Kurtz - Robert and Carol Ruderman
- In memory of Harold Chaimson, beloved uncle - Donald and Lois Chudacoff
- In honor of the occasion of our 45th wedding anniversary and with appreciation to Rabbi Kurtz - Dale and Betsey Pinkert
- In memory of Harry Bernbaum, beloved husband, and Keren-Or Bernbaum, beloved daughter of Harriet Bernbaum - Nessia Frank
- In memory of Abe "Dobby" Dobkin, beloved father - David and Janice Lasky
- In memory of Hyman Field, beloved grandfather - Phillip and Sandra Cooper
- In memory of Allegra Rousso, beloved mother - Sherwin and Odette Rubinstein
- In memory of Jerome Feldman, beloved father and with appreciation to Rabbi Kurtz - David Feldman and Lori Wisper
- In memory of Alvin Levine, beloved friend Donald and Lois Chudacoff
- In memory of Larry Tayne, beloved husband, father and grandfather Charlotte Tayne Avraham
- In memory of Anna Citro, beloved mother Sherry Kantar - In memory of Anna Kolender, beloved grandmother - Phillip and Sandra Cooper
- In memory of Lillian Silberstein and with appreciation to Rabbi Kurtz - Kurt and Robyn Silberstein
- In memory of Benjamin Bernstein, beloved father - Marvin Bernstein
- In memory of Lillian Silberstein, beloved mother of Kurt Silberstein - Ann Siegel - Ellen and Steven Lasin
- In memory of Benjamin Harry Schneider, beloved father and grandfather - Charlotte Tayne Avraham - In memory of Bernice B. Epstein, beloved mother - Samuel and Irene Shanes
- In memory of Louis and Serene Sommer, beloved parents - Adrienne and Larry Garland
- In memory of Bess Frohman, beloved mother-in-law - Cecelia Frohman
- In memory of Malcolm Kravits and with appreciation to Rabbi Kurtz - Steven and Susan Kessler
- In memory of Daniel Cowans, beloved father of Bruce Cowans - Herbert Rosen
- In memory of Mania Glassman, beloved mother-in-law - Joan Holland
- In memory of Devorah Holland, beloved daughter - Joan Holland
- In memory of Marcia Wilensky, beloved mother of Roberta Goodman - Lois Moss
- In memory of Donna Truger, beloved mother - Julie and David Baum
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
25
Todah Rabbah
We are grateful for the following contributions:
Rabbi Kurtz's Discretionary Fund (continued)
- In memory of Miriam Watman, beloved sister - Daniel Nast Jr. and Dolly Nast
- In memory of Shirley Feinstein, beloved mother and grandmother - Steven and Linda Feinstein
- In memory of Mollie Kaplan, beloved mother - Wallace and Joan Dunn
- Wishing a complete and speedy recovery to Louis Kahn - Lori and Joel Haberman
- In memory of Morris A. Vishny, beloved father - Bernard and Elaine Reisin
- With appreciation for Rabbi Kurtz for the baby naming of our granddaughter, Scottie Ava Fleisher - Arnold and Nancy Levinson
- In memory of Nathan Pickus, beloved husband and with appreciation to Rabbi Kurtz - Jane Pickus
- With appreciation to Rabbi Kurtz - Marvin and Joyce Juron
- In memory of Rabbi Joseph Tabachnik, beloved husband - Miriam Tabachnik
- With appreciation to Rabbi Kurtz for his guidance and compassion during my mother's Shiva - Roberta and Steve Goodman
- In memory of Ralph J. Epstein, beloved father - Samuel and Irene Shanes - In memory of Randall Horwitz, beloved husband - David and Janice Lasky
- With appreciation to Rabbi Kurtz for his help and support - Sulie Holt
- In memory of Rose B. Juron, beloved mother - Marvin and Joyce Juron - In memory of Rose Yaffe, beloved mother Daniel Nast Jr. and Dolly Nast
Rabbi Schwab's Discretionary Fund
- With appreciation to Rabbi Kurtz for Jennifer Ray and Dan Dresner's Aufruf Edward and Sari Salinas
- In memory of Sam Kraft, beloved father Donald Kraft
- With appreciation to Rabbi Kurtz for performing a beautiful wedding ceremony for our children - Ned and Cindy Zallik
- In honor of the birth of Bruno and Ruth Fischer's twin great-grandsons - Eliezer Krumbein
- In memory of Marcia Wilensky, beloved mother of Roberta Goodman - Barbara and David Lansing and Family
- In honor of the engagement of Stephen Sanderman - Jeffrey and Michele Glass
- In memory of Mark Katler, beloved father of Mitchell Kalter - Ellen and Steven Lasin and Family
- In memory of Bernard Kott, beloved father David and Jacqueline Wolle - In memory of Donna Truger, beloved mother - Julie and David Baum
- In memory of Rosetta Rosenblatt - Marvin and Joyce Juron
- In memory of Elaine Ordower, beloved sister - Adrian and Linda Winick
- In memory of Sonja Elkin, beloved mother Anita Spieler
- In memory of Gerry Golden - Bradley Gordon
- In memory of Zev Weinberg, beloved son Daniel and Audrey Weinberg
- In memory of Hyman B. Abrams, beloved father - Robert and Sharon Abrams - In memory of Irving Brand, beloved father Robert and Sharon Abrams - In memory of Isadore "Irv" Rubenstein, beloved uncle - Eileen and Paul Goldstein - In memory of J. Harry Kulakofsy, beloved father - Ruth Belzer - In memory of Janet R. Abels, beloved mother - Roger and Ronnie Wilk - In memory of Jean Lang, beloved mother Stephen and Judy Smiley
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
- In memory of Rose Bickel Juron, beloved mother - Marvin and Joyce Juron
26
- Wishing a complete and speedy recovery to Marla Sklar - Malka Dodi Bat Sara Pesha Marvin and Sara Siegel - With appreciation to Rabbi Schwab for the naming of our granddaughters Molly and Claire - Elinor Bayliss
Todah Rabbah Hazzan Tisser's Discretionary Fund
Ba'al Korei Fund
- In honor of Hazzan Tisser becoming part of the Beth El family - Robert and Beth Footlik
- In honor of Hazzan Tisser's arrival at Beth El - Chuck Kahalnik
- In honor of Hazzan Benjamin Tisser and family joining NSS Beth El - Larry Pachter and Sandy Starkman
- In memory of Gerry Golden - Bradley Gordon
- In memory of Yosef Hakamian, beloved brother and Matilda Frank, beloved sister of Batya Retsky - Howard Turner
- Wishing a complete and speedy recovery to Ernie Smolen - Howard Turner - With appreciation to Richard Schlosberg for helping us celebrate our 65th wedding anniversary - Bob and Millie Weber
- Wishing a complete and speedy recovery to Alan Miller - Howard Turner
Cal and Lana Eisenberg Halomdim Program Endowment Fund
- In memory of Sybil Levin, beloved sister Calvin and Lana Eisenberg
Capital Improvement Fund
-In honor of Elaine and Bernie Reisin and Elaine's special birthday - Jonathan and Rita Cohen
- In memory of Sheila Hartnell, beloved sister - Jay and Mindy Sterns - In honor of Betsy Katz - Robert and Beth Footlik
- In memory of Joan Sterns, beloved mother Jay and Mindy Sterns
- In honor of Millie and Bob Weber's 65th anniversary - Sandy Starkman and Larry Pachter, Uri, Hollen and Avram Pachter
- In memory of Myndel and Samuel Rubin, beloved mother and father - Stuart and Marlene Senescu
General Israel Scholarship Endowment Fund
- In honor of the wedding of Uri Pachter to Hollen Reischer - Patricia Shapiro
Glass/Goldman Program Endowment Fund
- Wishing a complete and speedy recovery to Ernie Smolen - Ellen and Philip Glass
Holocaust Memorial Endowment Fund
- In honor of Herbert S. Rosenthal, M.D. Celebrating 90 years - Mandy, John, Miles, Emma and John Oliver Lewis
Horwitz-Hoffman Youth Lounge Maintenance Endowment Fund
- In honor of David and Barbara Hoffman's 50th wedding anniversary - Elizabeth Posner - Richard and Gail Brown
Irving and Janet Robbin Scholar-in-Residence Program Endowment Fund
- In memory of Irving Robbin, beloved father - David and Karen Benson
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
- In memory of Yosef Hakamian and Matilda Frank, beloved brother and sister of Batya Retsky - Larry Pachter and Sandy Starkman
27
Todah Rabbah
We are grateful for the following contributions:
Jack and Mildred Cohen Religious School Fund
- In honor of Kathy Stinson for all of her help with Scott and Kristina's wedding Robert and Carol Ruderman
- In memory of Eli Glassman, beloved husband of Joan Holland - Benjamin and Bernice Cohen
- In memory of Elena Korenstein, beloved mother-in-law of Alicia Gejman - Andrew and Gail Brown - Dena and David Cooperman - Howard Turner - Larry and Nancy Kekst - Terri and Michael Lipsitz - Pamela and Richard Schlosberg
- In memory of Jack M. Cohen, beloved father - Howard and Lois Hirschfield
Jean T. and Morton Bernstein Camp Ramah Endowment Fund
- In memory of Rebecca Ellen Benson, beloved daughter of Karen and David Benson - Morton and Miriam Steinberg
- In memory of Roslyn Ebstein, beloved wife of Bernhard Ebstein - Morton and Miriam Steinberg
Joseph and Mae Gray Cultural and Learning Center Fund
- In memory of Joan Epstein, beloved mother of Mary Kaltman - Fran and Steven Shapiro
- In memory of Martin Weinstein, beloved husband - Natalie Weinstein
- In memory of Lillian Silberstein, beloved mother of Kurt Silberstein - Andrew and Gail Brown
- In memory of Roberta Steinhardt, beloved sister - Theodore and Cheryl Banks
- In memory of Randall Horwitz, beloved father - Adena S. Horwitz - Wishing a complete and speedy recovery to Sandy Raizes - Howard and Lois Hirschfield
- In memory of Ruth Banks, beloved mother Theodore and Cheryl Banks
- In memory of Marcia Wilensky, beloved mother of Roberta Goodman - Andrew and Gail Brown - Steven Shapiro
- In memory of Samuel Loseff, beloved father-in-law - Elaine Loseff
Kopin Family Fund for Children's T'filot Education Endowment Fund
- In memory of Roslyn Ebstein, beloved wife of Bernhard Ebstein - Myrna Kopin
Maxwell Abbell Library Fund
- In honor of Suzanne and Ron Zweig becoming grandparents - Jeffrey and Michele Glass
- In memory of Abe W. Mattenson, beloved father and grandfather - Nissah Mattenson - In memory of Doris Wexler, beloved wife Herman Wexler
- In honor of the birth of Mel and Rosie Roseman's granddaughter - Rochelle and Len Foxman
Mindy and Jeffrey Gordon and Family Unrestricted Endowment Fund
- In honor of the wedding of Matthew Gordon - Sonja Shiner
Minyan Service Fund
- In memory of Abraham Sterman, beloved father - Charles and Toby Schwartz
- In memory of Charles Scheinman, beloved grandfather - Barbara and David Lansing
- In memory of Albert Gersowsky, beloved father - Barry Gersowsky
- In memory of Gina S. Back, beloved mother - June Back Frydman
- In memory of Bernard A. Cohen, beloved husband - Marion Cohen
- In memory of Harry Back, beloved father June Back Frydman
- In memory of Betty Fink, beloved mother William and Sharon Gertz
- In memory of Hiah Turner, beloved mother - Amos Turner
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
28
Todah Rabbah Minyan Service Fund (continued)
- In memory of Louis Gertz, beloved father William and Sharon Gertz
- In memory of Roz Levin, beloved mother Arlene and Jeffrey Levin
- In memory of Mildred and Murray Werker, beloved parents - Sheila Goldberg
- In appreciation of Sandy Starkman - Fran and Steven Shapiro
Miriam and Bernard H. Sokol Hebrew High School
- In memory of Elena Korenstein, beloved mother-in-law of Alicia Gejman - Ronnie Jo Sokol - David Rosen and Amy Zisook
Music Fund
- In memory of Roslyn Ebstein, beloved wife of Bernhard Ebstein - Bobbie and Len Tenner - Gerald and Adrienne Lasin - Madeleine and David Solomon - Ronit Ben Arie
NSSBE Camp Scholarship Program
- In memory of Emma Gruby - Melissa, Phil, Nathan and Rachel Block
NSSBE Special Gifts Fund
- In honor of Lillian Silberstein - Neal Price and The Strategic Wealth Partners Team
Paul S. and Sylvia Steinberg Pre-School Fund
- In memory of Karrola Frankenthal Epstein Karen and Mitch Kopin
- In memory of Roslyn Ebstein - Karen and Mitch Kopin
Prayer Book Fund
- In honor of the birth of Dr. Irving and Betty Rozenfeld's great-grandson Ari Matan Frankel - Albert and Eleanor Boxerman
- In memory of Marcia Wilensky, beloved mother of Roberta Goodman - Mark D. Gerstein
- In honor of the birth of Rabbi Charles and Deb Dobrusin's grandson Ari Matan Frankel - Albert and Eleanor Boxerman
- In memory of Marvin Margolis, beloved father - Keith and Cheryl Weitzman - In memory of Rose Aaronson, beloved mother - Neil and Adrienne Aaronson
- In memory of Eugene Behrstock, beloved father - Neil and Adrienne Aaronson
Pushke/Tzedakah Fund
- In memory of Mason Nadolna, beloved cousin - Michael and Lindsey Delrahim
- In memory of Samuel Kurchitzer, beloved father - Bob and Millie Weber
Ritual Refurbishment Fund
- In honor of Mark Stadler - Marc and Rachel Dorfman
- In memory of Yosef Hakamian, beloved brother and Matilda Frank, beloved sister of Batya Retsky - Pamela and Richard Schlosberg
- In honor of our granddaughters' Rebecca and Rena Lustig B'not Mitzvah - Jack and Barbara Blumberg
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
- With appreciation to Mark Stadler - Sulie Holt
29
Todah Rabbah
We are grateful for the following contributions:
Sarah and Henry Stiebel Camp Ramah Endowment Fund
- In memory of Thelma Yore, beloved motherMayer Stiebel and Cara Madansky Stiebel
Sarah and Henry Stiebel Schechter Endowment Fund
- In honor of Harvey and Jackie Barnett's 50th anniversary - Sandy Starkman and Larry Pachter, Uri, Hollen and Avram Pachter
- In honor of Joel Rabinowitz on his first 90 years - Larry Pachter and Sandy Starkman
Social Action Fund
- In honor of the occasion of the aufruf of Zev Saffir and Nikki Koppelson - Babette Daskin
- With appreciation to Rabbi Schwab Alexander Wolf
Special Gifts Fund
- In memory of Paul Lang - Judy and Stephen Smiley
- In memory of Shirley Nyeste, beloved mother - James Nyeste
Staff Recognition Fund
- In honor of Hazzan Benjamin Tisser and family joining NSS Beth El - Andrew and Gail Brown
- In memory of Joyce Philippi, beloved mother of Kathy Stinson - Pamela and Richard Schlosberg
In Loving Memory.....We regret this omission to this year's Memorial Book: Marshall Yablon Remembered by Alexis Yablon, David, Leah and Lincoln Seidman
NSSBE Staff Vernon Kurtz, Rabbi Michael Schwab, Rabbi Benjamin A. Tisser, Hazzan Mark Stadler, Ritual Director Chuck Kahalnik, Executive Director Alicia Gejman, Director of Formal Education
Caron Knopoff, Pre-School Director Ali Drumm, Director of Informal Education Rachel Kamin, Director of the Cultural and Learning Center Nancy Kekst, Development Manager Samantha Isenstein, Youth Community Director
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
30
November 2015 Events Calendar
Sunday
Monday
1
2
2:00am Daylight Savings Time Ends 10:00am Robbin Scholar
8
9
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
5
6
7
9:00am Preschool Bubbie/ Zadie Shabbat 4:19pm Candle Lighting 6:15pm Kabbalat Shabbat
8:50am Shabbat Services Bat Mitzvah – Alexandra Wirth 4:15pm Mincha /Ma'ariv 5:24pm Candle Lighting
3
4
12:30pm Sisterhood Board Meeting
9:30am Writer's Beit Midrash 7:45pm Executive 8:00pm Youth Committee Committee Meeting Meeting
10
11 Veteran's Day
10:00am Men's Club Keeper 8:00pm Board of Education of the Flame Breakfast Event Committee Meeting 1:30pm Chicago Festival of Israeli Cinema
15
16
17
9:45am Bagels for Your 7:45pm Ritual Committee Brains Meeting 11:00am Men's Club Board Meeting
22
23
9:45am Bagels for Your Brains 10:00am Social Action Thanksgiving Mitzvah Project
8:00pm Continuing Education Committee Meeting
29
30
12 Rosh Hodesh Kislev 13 Rosh Hodesh Kislev 14
5:00pm Artist Beit Midrash 7:00am Morning Minyan USCJ Convention Begins Gallery Opening 7:00pm Hartman Institute 7:00am Morning Minyan 7:00pm Hillel Event Class 4:12pm Candle Lighting 6:15pm Kabbalat Shabbat
8:50am Shabbat Services Bar Mitzvah – Eli Gidron 10:00am Vav Family Service 12:00pm Vav Service Luncheon 4:00pm Mincha /Ma'ariv 5:17pm Shabbat Ends
18
19
9:30am Writer's Beit Midrash 7:45pm Board of Directors Meeting
24
25
26 Thanksgiving
Dec 1
Dec 2
October-November 2015 / Tishrei-Kislev 5776
21 8:50am Shabbat Services USCJ Scholar Bat Mitzvah – Lucy Melinger Bat Mitzvah – Noa Dayan 12:30pm USCJ Scholar Post Kiddush Lecture 4:00pm Mincha /Ma'ariv 5:11pm Shabbat Ends 7:00pm Men's Club/Sisterhood Event
27
28
4:02pm Candle Lighting 6:15pm Kabbalat Shabbat
8:50am Shabbat Services 4:00pm Mincha /Ma'ariv 5:07pm Shabbat Ends
Dec 3
Dec 4
Dec 5
7:45pm Executive Committee Meeting
4:00pm Candle Lighting 6:15pm Kabbalat Shabbat
8:50am Shabbat Services Bat Mitzvah - Carly Winick 9:15am Beit Midrash Minyan 10:45am Gimmel/Dalet Family Service 12:30pm Sisterhood Torah Fund Book Club 4:00pm Mincha /Ma'ariv 5:05pm Shabbat Ends
8:00pm Youth Community 8:45am Morning Minyan Turkey Dance
7:45pm Sisterhood Board Meeting
20 4:06pm Candle Lighting 6:15pm Kabbalat Shabbat
31
North Suburban Synagogue Beth El 1175 Sheridan Road Highland Park, IL 60035
Non Profit Org. US Postage PAID Highland Park, IL
Permit No. 96
October 2015 Events Calendar
Address Service Requested
Sunday
Monday
4 Erev Shemini Atzeret 5 Shemini Atzeret Hoshana Rabbah
6:30am Early Morning Service 8:50am Festival Service 6:15pm Mincha/Ma'ariv 6:45pm Young Family Introductory Program 7:00pm Hakafot 7:14pm Candle Lighting 9:00pm Ice Cream Social
11
12 Columbus Day
6:09pm Candle Lighting 6:15pm Mincha/Ma'ariv
9:45am Bagels for Your Brains 11:00am Men's Club Board Meeting
Tuesday
Friday
Saturday
1
2
3
7:00am Morning Minyan 4:00pm Preschool Sukkot Pizza Dinner 7:00pm USY in the Sukkah
7:00am Morning Minyan 5:00pm Jeans & Jammies/ M&M Club/Family B'Yachad Event 6:11pm Candle Lighting 6:15pm Kabbalat Shabbat
Ba'al Korei Shabbat 8:50am Shabbat Services 12:30pm Sisterhood Torah Fund Book Club 6:00pm Mincha /Ma'ariv 7:16pm Shabbat Ends
7
8
9
10
9:30am Writer's Beit Midrash 8:00pm Continuing Education Committee Meeting
2:00pm Afternoon at the Movies 7:45pm Executive Committee Meeting
6:00pm Candle Lighting 6:15pm Kabbalat Shabbat
8:50am Shabbat Services Bar Mitzvah–Jason Garfinkel 9:15am Beit Midrash Minyan Begins 10:00am Vav Family Service 5:45pm Mincha /Ma'ariv 7:05pm Shabbat Ends
13 Rosh Hodesh Heshvan 14 Rosh Hodesh Heshvan 15
16
17
7:00am Morning Minyan 8:30am Talmud Class Begins 10:00am Conservative Judaism Class Begins 11:00am Parshat HaShavua Class Begins 6:30pm Intermediate Hebrew Class Begins 7:45pm Sisterhood Board Mtg.
7:00am Morning Minyan 10:30am Book of Daniel Class Begins 6:30pm Advanced Hebrew Class Begins 7:45pm Beth El AIPAC Event
10:00am Conversational Hebrew Class Begins 6:30pm Men's Club Event
5:48pm Candle Lighting 6:15pm Kabbalat Shabbat
8:50am Shabbat Services Bat Mitzvah–Jordan Behn 5:30pm Mincha /Ma'ariv 6:53pm Shabbat Ends
20
21
22
6 Simchat Torah
8:50am Festival Serivce 10:00am Hakafot 10:45am Simchat Torah Pray and Play 6:15pm Mincha/Ma'ariv 7:13pm Yom Tov Ends
Wednesday
Thursday
18
19
23
24
9:30am Men's Club/ Sisterhood Speaker Event
9:00am Judaism 101 Class 8:00pm Shemot I Class Begins Begins 8:00pm Board of Education Committee Meeting 8:00pm Ritual Committee and High Holiday Review Meeting
9:30am Writer's Beit Midrash 2:00pm Museum Exhibit Lecture 7:45pm Board of Directors Meeting
5:38pm Candle Lighting 6:15pm Kabbalat Shabbat
8:50am Shabbat Services Bat Mitzvah–Maya Cohen 5:30pm Mincha /Ma'ariv 6:43pm Shabbat Ends 8:00pm Jewish Parenting Havurah
26
28
30
31
5:28pm Candle Lighting 6:15pm Kabbalat Shabbat 7:00pm Robbin Scholar Congregational Shabbat Dinner
8:50am Shabbat Services Robbin Scholar Speaker 12:30pm Robbin Scholar Post Kiddush Lecture 5:15pm Mincha /Ma'ariv 6:33pm Shabbat Ends
25
27
7:45pm CLC Committee Meeting
29
High Holiday Review Monday, October 19, 2015
Now that the High Holidays have ended, I invite you to share your High Holiday experiences with the Ritual Committee. We want to know what went right and where we have to improve. We will meet in the Zell Activity Room on Monday, October 19th, 2015 at 8:00pm following evening Minyan, and you are welcome to come and share your feedback with the committee. If you cannot attend, we still want to hear from you. Please email me by Friday, October 16th at shapiro.david@comcast.net and I will represent your thoughts. Please be assured that all responses will be in strict confidence – names will be edited out. Whether you attend or email me, your voice will be heard. David Shapiro, Vice President Ritual Committee