MARCH/APRIL 2015/ADAR-NISAN-IYAR 5775

INSIDE THIS ISSUE PAGE 2 A Once in a Lifetime ChallengePAGE 8 New Officers & TrusteesPAGE 9 Sale of HametzPAGE 10 Passover Guide 5775PAGE 13 Our Legacy SocietyPAGE 15 Meet the Gorfinkels

MMTemple Beth El Founded 1913. In 2008 merged with Congregation B’nai Jacob (founded 1891). Devoted to seeking God, doing Mitzvot, studying Torah, and creating Community. 1

Scholar-in-Residence Rabbi Rachel Cowan to Visit Friday & Saturday, March 27 & 28 Rabbi Rachel Cowan will be our Scholar-in-Residence on Friday, March 27 and on Shabbat, March 28. Rabbi Cowan, formerly the Executive Director of the Institute for Jewish Spirituality, is working on a special project, “Aging with Wisdom.” She was named by Newsweek in 2007 and in 2010 as one of the 50 leading rabbis in the United States, and by the Forward in 2010 as one of the 50 leading women rabbis. Rabbi Cowan was featured in the PBS series The Jewish Americans. She received her ordination from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in 1989. Rabbi Cowan is the co-author, with Dr. Linda Thal, of the soon-to-be-published Aging Wisely: Living with Joy, Resilience and Spirit. Our scholar-in-residence is partly sponsored by a special group of women who include: Judi Bullock, Judy Ingis, Aileen Kramer, Susan Kuzon, Ginny Lepow, Susanne Osofsky, Susan Porter, and Bunny Schwartz. These women, who all turned 40 years old in the same year, went

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Craig Kazin to be Honored at the Nechamen/Chernick Breakfast Sunday, March 8 The congregation is invited to attend the 7th annual Nechamen/Chernick Breakfast on Sunday, March 8 at 9:15 am, sponsored by the Program Committee. This event raises funds for the Nechamen/Chernick Scholarship Fund, which provides scholarships for member children to attend Jewish educational and summer programs. For a bio of Craig, please see the January/February issue of Tekiah or visit our website, www.tbespringfield.org. The Program Committee will prepare a delicious hot breakfast. The cost is $10 if paid by March 2; $15 after that date. Please make your reservations by calling the temple office at 733-4149 or visit our website, www.tbespringfield.org. We hope everyone will join us to honor Craig for his service and dedication to Temple Beth El and will make contributions to the Nechamen/Chernick Fund in his name. Attendees are encouraged to stay for the Annual Meeting which follows at 10:30 am (see article on page 8).

Rabbi Ed Feld to SpeakSaturday, March 14 Temple Beth El is pleased to announce that Rabbi Ed Feld will speak on March 14, following Shabbat services and lunch. The topic of his discussion is “Finding Ourselves in the Psalms.” Rabbi Feld is senior editor of the new Mahzor Lev Shalem, published by the Conservative Movement’s Rabbinical Assembly, for which he was listed as one of the Forward 50—the 50 outstanding American Jews of 2010. Of his new book, Joy, Despair and Hope: Reading Psalms (Cascade Books), one reviewer wrote, “Rabbi Feld has a profound understanding of the pathways to spiritual striving,” and another wrote, “It invites readers to see the psalms as windows into the human condition.”

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COMMUNITY PURIM CELEBRATION AT TBE! SEE PAGE 8 FOR DETAILS.

Israel Ride 2014: A Once in a Lifetime ChallengeSharon Cohen This past November, I travelled to Israel for a new experience. I chose to see Israel one pixel at a time. What do I mean? Well, when one travels on a bike you really see each and every view of each and every foot you travel. Israel Ride 2014 began as a once in a lifetime challenge. I arrived in Jerusalem on a Monday evening, still wondering if I had prepared enough over the last year to ride the 275 miles to Eilat. The next week would be the test of a lifetime, as I had not done much bike riding over the last 20 years, with the exception of this past summer of training. Every person I met over the next 24 hours prior to the start of the ride was friendly and wonderfully welcoming. We all played “Jewish Geography” and usually came up with a personal connection. I met folks who attended Camp Ramah Canada with me

in the 1970s, I met a man whose daughter worked with mine at the Isabella Friedman Center last summer, and I met a man who grew up near one of my current neighbors. When you have 160 people who like to bike, love Israel and the environment, it was never a far stretch. As we left Jerusalem the terrain was hilly of course, but beautifully green and lush. Our first 4 miles were basically downhill, and each and every view was amazing. On this first day, we covered over 60 miles from the Judean Hills to Be’er Sheva, 18 of which were along the West Bank.

Weekday MorningsMonday through Friday ....... 7:00 amSunday .................................. 8:30 am

Weekday EveningsSunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday .......5:45 pm

Shabbat WorshipErev Shabbat ........................6:00 pmShabbat morning ................. 9:30 amShabbat afternoon ...............5:00 pm

Fast of EstherWednesday, March 4 ..............7:00 am

PurimWednesday, March 4 Megillah Reading ..................6:30 pmCommunity Purim Celebration at Temple Beth El ..................7:30 pmThursday, March 5Purim Service & Megillah Reading . .................6:45 am

See page 9 for our Pesah service schedule.

Rosh Hodesh NisanSaturday, March 21

Rosh Hodesh IyarWednesday, April 19 ................8:30 amThursday, April 20....................6:45 am

Please note: Beginning Saturday, March 7, the Minhah service time will change to 6:00 pm.

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I became more confident that I had prepared for this physical challenge with every rotation of my bike’s tires. Each hill we climbed, I thought of our ancestors walking up these same steep hills without the luxury of pavement or even knowing where they were headed at times. The next day we spent the morning climbing to the Yatir Forest, a forest created by JNF with hundreds of thousands of trees that survive on less than 3 inches of rain a year. The Yatir Forest is now the home of much of the wildlife that used to reside in the Judean Hills. We next rode through both a Bedoiun farm and a more modern Bedouin village which partners with the Arava Institute, quite a contrast from where we had come. On Friday, we entered the heart of the desert and shade became scarce. We stopped for a rest at Golde Meir Park and Sde Boker, where we paid respects to Israel’s first Prime Minister David Ben Gurion. This was a very hard day of biking and we still had miles to go before Shabbat at Mitzpe Ramon. By Friday night I needed Shabbat. I found both Friday night services and Havdalah were very beautiful. I heard so many new voices and celebrated with my fellow cyclists. Riding into Kibbutz Ketura was a very moving experience for me. When I saw the sign, I got off my bike and paused for a moment or two as this is why I did the ride. As riders, we were not only raising needed scholarship dollars for the students, we were also raising awareness of the great programs that the Arava Institute offers. The Arava brings together Israeli, Jordanian, Palestinian as well as American students to study and solve environmental problems the region shares, while learning how communicate with each other as well as work and live together. My daughter Gillian lived and studied here last year, and through her I have gained a much better understanding of how critical the programs are to the future of the region.

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The deadline for the May-June issue is Friday, March 20. Email articles or photos to communications@tbespringfield.org.

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Rabbi Amy Wallk Katz

Isidor I. Rabi, the Nobel laureate in Physics, was once asked, “Why did you become a scientist, rather than a doctor or a lawyer or businessman like the other immigrant kids in your neighborhood?” His answer is noteworthy. He answered by saying, “My mother made me a scientist without ever intending to. Every other Jewish mother in Brooklyn would ask her child after school ‘So? Did you learn anything today?’ But my mother always asked me a different question. ‘Izzy,’ she would say, ‘did you ask a good question today?’ That emphasis on asking good questions made me become a scientist!” So what are good questions? Most of us are never taught how to ask a good question. I would like to suggest two kinds of good questions, although they are very different. One kind of good question requires expertise to answer. Sometimes we want to gather information, learn more or become better informed. The following are good questions that require expertise:

• What kinds of governmental policies need to be in place to prevent climate change?

• What is the prognosis for a two-state solution in the Middle East?

• Did the film Selma accurately portray LBJ’s attitude towards the voting rights act?

• Is salvation a Jewish idea?

These sorts of questions are designed to solve problems. These kinds of questions reinforce a hierarchy between the experts and the rest of us. Most of us have been to dinners where a hard question about American politics is asked. Within minutes, some of us go to the kitchen to prepare the next course, others take a stretch and a few people remain at the table. Those individuals at the table think they know something about American politics and continue to debate. There is another kind of good question: a question that matters to everyone and that everyone can answer. Their strength is that they do not have an “answer.” They merely invite a person’s considered opinion.

• Do you believe that climate change should be addressed by our politicians?

• How do you inform yourself about the Arab-Israeli conflict?

• How do you inform yourself about the issues before voting? At what age should citizens be given the right to vote?

• Is voting a right or a responsibility? Or both?

Our tradition tells us that the Passover Seder is a time for families to gather and ask questions. It is important that the questions asked are big questions; the type of questions that do not demand expertise, but draw on experience. Instead of asking “Why did God insist on demonstrating his power through the 10 plagues?” Perhaps consider asking “How do you imagine the Israelites experienced the 10 plagues?” Instead of asking “Why is this night different from all other nights?” Perhaps consider asking “Why does Passover mean so much to me, that I insist on attending/making a Seder and discussing the Exodus?” These big questions will encourage conversation at your Seders. I hope that you will be able to set aside some time before your Seder to identify some questions that will engage your family and friends in an open conversation about Judaism and the meaning of freedom.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1WRABBI ED FELD TO SPEAK In his distinguished career, Rabbi Feld has served as Rabbi-in-Residence at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America, functioning as an advisor and mentor to rabbinical students, Rabbi of the Society for the Advancement of Judaism, and Hillel Director of Princeton University. He is a noted teacher, lecturing throughout North America. Rabbi Feld has published widely on halachic and ethical issues, on Jewish theology and on biblical themes and is the author of The Spirit of Renewal: Faith After the Holocaust (Jewish Lights). Currently, Rabbi Feld is at work on a companion volume to the Mahzor: Siddur Lev Shalem for Shabbat and Festivals. Rabbi Feld commented about his upcoming visit, “Psalms express a range of human emotions: joy and despair, thanksgiving and cries for help, faith in God, doubt. We will study two psalms and see how they express a range of feelings that may resonate with our own experience and inner lives, and how they may give us new insights in how to think of God and ourselves.” Everyone is welcome to join us on March 14 for Shabbat services, lunch, and/or to learn how psalms can bring new meaning to your life’s experiences. Feel free to Just Show Up!

“In every generation a person is obligated to look upon the self as if he or she had been personally delivered from Egypt.” This directive comes from the Mishnah, the primary text in Judaism’s tradition of oral law. Because it was placed in the Haggadah by the Rabbis, many people are familiar with this verse. The essence of the Seder is to re-live the Exodus. The text teaches an important truth: sharing transcendent experiences brings us closer together. We may not be able to recreate the Passover experience of former generations, but we can create our own.

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION

Ties That BindCaryn Resnick

There are many times that I feel a sense of pride about our students in the religious school. There is one particular time, however, in

which I am overwhelmed with pride and often experience a sense of awe. That is when our students in the 7th grade are involved in our Judaism and Aging course, the Ties That Bind Program at Jewish Geriatric Services (JGS). The program provides structured time and opportunities for conversation, activities and intergenerational learning between the residents and the students on the campus of JGS. The goal of the curriculum is to provide our students with the opportunity to perform the mitzvah of kibud zekaynim–honoring the elderly. We meet for eight Monday afternoons and conclude with a Shabbat dinner and graduation program with the residents, the students and their families. Many times a student will choose to maintain connections with their partner after the program ends. Others choose to volunteer on the campus. Twice last year, I witnessed a resident attend their student partner’s Bar Mitzvah. One time when a student came off the bimah, he found his partner, embraced her with a hug and told her how much it meant to him that she attended. This past Rosh HaShanah, a resident attended services and when her student partner saw her, she moved her seat to sit with her. Miriam Pilver, who lives independently at Genesis House, said that “I have enjoyed the contact with every student I’ve met.” She also said, “I just love the program and I look forward to it every year,” and “getting seniors to talk and open up is wonderful therapy for all of us.” Last spring at graduation, I was so impressed with our students’ relationships with their partners that I began to think that this program should somehow continue into the high school years. During the summer, I met with Miriam and Ester Cohen and asked

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CARYN RESNICK

them if they would like to continue seeing the students. They both became elated about the possibility. When I contacted Diane Kibodya, the activity director at Genesis House, she agreed to partner with me. The fall semester at B’Yahad (our high school program for 8th - 12th graders) offered a class titled “Making Memories” for our 8th and 9th grade students. They met with a group of residents at Genesis House on Thursday evenings. They watched films together, baked, did art projects and sometimes simply sat and talked. The seniors enjoyed sharing their personal stories with the students and offered them advice about life. Our students’ parents attended the last class. Once again, I witnessed our students interact with the elderly in a most compassionate, mature, sensitive and thoughtful way. The 7th grade experience had clearly made an impact. The students had been sensitized to the seniors’ needs and they approached this high school class with self-confidence and enthusiasm. The last class when we said good-bye moved me to tears. Participants came away feeling a special kind of joy, knowing that they had deepened their awareness, respect and sensitivity across the generations. It was clear to me that our school had provided both generations a gift that will last a lifetime. We can continue to say l’dor v’dor–from generation to generation.

SKLC Annual RetreatWhat will you tell the students who didn’t come to the retreat?

“The retreat was fun, and it was great to see so many young kids there. It really makes me feel like I’ll be leaving the religious school with a good group of kids!” –MAX RUBIN

“The retreat is a great way to interact with fellow friends and/or classmates. Furthermore, it’s also one great way to be educated on many topics while being interactive and enjoyable. No matter where they are, the retreats have never failed to impress me over and over again. Not to mention that the Israeli emissaries tag along also.” –ISAAC SCHEIN

“It was one of the best retreats ever!” –ROSE GEVANTHOR

“You really should have come.” –ZACH KORNBLUM & MADDIE GOODMAN

Backpack Project: Our students performed the mitzvah of feeding the hungry.

TOP & ABOVE: Opening activities before Shabbat at our annual 6th-12th grade retreat.

“First become a blessing to yourself so that you may become a blessing to others.”

– RABBI SAMSON RAPHAEL HIRSCH

Kadima Youth GroupRachel Borke Soumakis Advisor

Hamentaschen Bake-a-ThonSunday, March 11:00 - 4:00 pmKadima members will create and eat the most unusual hamentaschen ever! Watch your email for more details.

Last Hametz Before Passover DinnerWednesday, April 15:15 - 6:15 pmKadima & USY members will join together for this event. Watch your email for more details!

RACHEL BORKE SOUMAKIS

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USY News & UpdatesNora Gorenstein Advisor

After a wild start to the secular new year with our very well-attended “(Lounge) Night at the Movies” and popcorn bar, March and April promise to be both active and community-oriented! USY’s March 1 event from 11:00 am-1:00 pm is Creative Hamantashen Baking, with combinations of flavors you won’t see outside of a Zagat-rated restaurant (or our Temple Beth El kitchen)! On March 14, our annual Galactic Bowling evening at Shaker Bowl will “get the ball rolling” for a late-night party for USY members and Jewish friends, from 9:30-11:30 pm, with raffles for donating non-perishable goods for our food insecure neighbors. Finally, March wraps up with our yearly tradition of the Teen & Family Shabbat Potluck dinner: this year’s theme is Israel Advocacy, and the date is March 20.On April 1, as we prepare for Passover, USY & Kadima invite youth group members and their families for a “Last Hametz” dinner fundraiser from 5:15-6:15 pm. The cost is $10 per person, and your R.S.V.P. is requested by Wednesday, March 25. Our USY Lounge Night on April 11 will be held from 7:30-11:00 pm; more information coming soon!

NORA GORENSTEIN

UPCOMING EVENTSFAMILY SHABBATFriday, March 13 at 6:00 pm Please join us for a Kabbalat Shabbat service followed by dinner for families with children in grades K-7. The students in the religious school will prepare some of the meal and participate in the Shabbat service. Watch your mail for more details.

STUDENT-LED SHABBAT MORNING SERVICESaturday, May 2 Join us as we honor our students and teachers of the Sandi Kupperman Learning Center Religious School. The students will take leadership roles and share the skills that they have mastered in their classrooms. A delicious Kiddush lunch will be served following the service. Please come and share our pride!

YOM YERUSHALAYIM (JERUSALEM DAY)Sunday, May 17 from 1:00 - 4:00 pm Eat delicious Israeli foods prepared by Catering by Meital, purchase Israeli products, and learn more about our beloved homeland.

UPCOMING EVENTS

USY teens complete a social action project (gift bags for a local soup kitchen) before Lounge Night at the Movies.

The stage is set for a comfortable movie lounge.

TBE teens at B’Yahad make lasagna for the soup kitchen at Shiloh Church.

Our B’Yahad students, along with teacher Steve Weiner, working at the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, sorting food for distribution in the community.

Backpack Project: SKLC students performed the mitzvah of feeding the hungry.

BETH EL SISTERHOOD TORAH FUND LUNCHEONWednesday, May 6 Dr. Richard Freund, PhD, Director of the Maurice Greenberg Center for Jewish Studies at the University of Hartford, will be the guest speaker.

David Brenner provide an abundance of opinions and share their comic influences. We will meet earlier at 10:00 am, to allow enough time to watch the film. The National Jewish Book Awards have recently been announced, and many of the winners are available in the library. Here are just a few:• The December Project: An Extraordinary

Rabbi and a Skeptical Seeker Confront Life’s Greatest Mystery by Sara Davidson. For two years, the author met every Friday with Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi to discuss end-of-life issues and formulate strategies to cultivate fearlessness and joy at any age.

• David: The Divided Heart (Jewish Lives Series) by David Wolpe. Rabbi Wolpe takes a fresh look at why David holds such an exalted place in history and legend.

• A Replacement Life: A Novel by Boris Fishman. A literary debut where the protagonist is asked to do the unthinkable: forge Holocaust restitution claims for elderly Russian Jews in Brooklyn.

Sundays at 9:00 am In Cuppa Joe we are reading the wonderful essays at the back of the Etz Hayim Humash. These scholarly essays allow for thoughtful conversation about Biblical life, Jewish law, prayer, and much more. You do not need a strong background to participate in the class, just a desire to learn. Just Show Up whenever it is convenient. Minyan is at 8:30 am, and breakfast and class begins around 9:00 am.

Book Discussion Group News

Liz Marinelli Librarian

The book group will meet on Wednesday, March 18, at 10:30 am in the library, to discuss The Children of Willesden Lane by Mona Golabek. Based on the true story of her mother, the author describes the inspirational story of a young piano prodigy’s

escape from Nazi-controlled Austria to England on the famed Kindertransport. In a London orphanage, her mother’s music inspires the children. It’s a message of the power of music to uplift the human spirit.

On April 15, we will have our annual movie morning and watch the documentary When Jews Were Funny. Insightful and hilarious, the film surveys the history of Jewish comedy, from the early days of the Borsht belt to the present. Comedians such as Shecky Greene, Howie Mandel, and

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Talmud TalesWednesday at noon During March and April, we’ll continue discussing Talmud tales.

In this series we will examine stories from the Talmud and midrash. Rabbinic literature contains hundreds of stories about rabbinic sages and other historical figures who lived during the late Second Temple and rabbinic periods. The stories were recorded long after the events they recount, and thus they are literary rather than historical accounts. In our discussions, we will look to see how these stories can make a difference in our lives. Pack a dairy lunch and join us.

LIZ MARINELLI

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2WISRAEL RIDE 2014: A ONCE IN A LIFETIME CHALLENGE As we woke for the last day of riding, I must say I was a little sad to leave the Kibbutz and head to our final destination, Eilat. I could not believe that this journey was nearly at an end. Physically, this was the shortest and easiest day of riding, but also the hottest weather we were dealing with as well. Much of the day we spent riding parallel to the Egyptian border, a stone’s throw away from the road we travelled. As we gathered as a group prior to our last decent into Eilat, we were reminded that while we were riding down we would at one point be able to see Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia while on our bikes in Israel. I was very moved, as it was very plain to see how very vulnerable Israel’s existence with her neighbors truly is. As the ride came to a close and the group headed to the Red Sea for a swim and photo ops with our bikes, I paused yet again thinking of our Passover story and the parting of the Red Sea, and here I was floating while drinking a beer in celebration of my accomplishment. I really felt a connection to all of the history I had been a part of over the week, and wondered how my ancestors felt at their moment of glory in the same spot. Almost everyone I have spoken to about the ride has asked if I would do this again, and my answer is, “I get why Rabbi Katz has done this so many times.” God willing, I will ride again on Israel Ride 2015.

We look forward to great times together, both in the far future and in the next couple of months. Please remember that there’s free and easy parking for the upcoming Friday night “Musical Shabbats.” Once you go, the magnificent tunes replaying in your mind will remind you to return! I hope you were there on the Shabbat morning when our first-graders were honored, and that you’re planning to help honor Craig Kazin on Sunday, March 8 (after a magnificent breakfast by that talented Program Committee of movie-night fame)! I hope you caught both the professional concert after Shabbat dinner in late January and the performers of our own Beit Café of early February. Beyond dinners and concerts and parties and holidays, always remember that we are here, every day of the week, every week of the year. You may start your day with us, as well as slip in for those essential few minutes before dinner, to schmooze with your second family, to relax to a few prayers, to be sure that our mourners are cared for. On Shabbat morning “Just Show Up,” whether that means early or (very) late morning, and stay for Kiddush lunch. Pick up some Yiddishkeit at Lunch and Learn with Rabbi Katz, delve some more into Judaism at Cuppa Joe, sign up for a Melton class. It’s all here. And it’s all better when you are here, too. Show your love. According to a recent study, it should even improve your health!

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FROM THE PRESIDENTPaul Farkas As I begin to write, we have happily discovered that anti-lock brakes do work on ice! That ice may be a memory by the time we are reading this, in the midst of putting together our Purim costumes! Again, our lives together seem to mirror recent Torah portions, read aloud on Saturday mornings. We have recently seen Judah “approach” Joseph as the family reunited, and last week we heard that God had “remembered” his people in Egypt when the burning bush attracted Moses’ attention. As I read how the characters in the Bible expressed their love for “the children of Israel,” I am struck by the many ways that so many of us have been showing our love for Temple Beth El. Surely a great sign of love is “being there.” On so many cold or snowy evenings we have set out gingerly for evening minyan, mostly to keep Rev. Aminia company, only to discover that he had plenty of company already! As June Okun said, “So? You dress up warm! I wouldn’t miss it!” We loved the deep aroma of the cheese quiche that greeted us on New Year’s Eve! The many BethEllians who came to evening services enjoyed David and Sharon’s champagne and desserts as they wished us all a “happy secular new year!” The mounds of thinly sliced mushrooms and individually peeled garlic cloves were indeed the tip of the iceberg of planning, shopping trips, cooking, and more cooking as our program committee made us a great party on the cold night of January 10! As we watched the movie, replete with an eccentric grandfather, crazed parents, and bored Hebrew school classmates, we were all left to wonder: would this really have been as funny as it became with all of us laughing so hard together?

Elina Deangelis said “yes” when she was asked to be a fellow at On-Board, a selective, educational leadership program established by the Legacy Heritage Foundation. Amidst her studies and seminars, she is working with Michelle Anfang on the Purim Basket (mishloah manot) project that adds so much to the festival, and beyond. “Yes” is what Bluma Bier said when she was asked to lead evening services! She has helped us out so often and so masterfully that Gene Baker has declared her a “chazzan.”Another way we have been showing our love for Temple Beth El is our concern for our sanctuary. You have described having your Bar/Bat Mitzvahs and weddings here, and those of your children. The windows and the other people sharing their vistas all have meaning and memories. It’s wonderful to work together to arrange this magnificent room into a place that will continue to nurture our spirits and inspire our community... to be useful and beautiful whatever our numbers, whether larger or smaller, in the unknowable future... to echo our early traditions, current trends, and the original vision of the room... to give us the space where our community can choose to live and thrive. Perhaps Cantor Shames epitomizes love for Temple Beth El. Even after so many years as “emeritus,” he remains deeply involved in our welfare and our future. During our December 16 parlor meeting, Cantor Shames thrilled us with a surprise entrance. He later reassured us, in his soaring, highly accented fortissimo tones, “there have been many changes. This is easy, pleasant, this will be better and an easy change to make. What are we talking about tonight? Scott, an incredible help, feels part ownership in this sanctuary. I am calling Scott our Impresario, our creator. I am excited, happy, proud, this had been my home for 60 years, and now we are on a new adventure. It will be wonderful, because we have a great congregation, we will do greater things again... we’ll make it work and we’ll all come together!”

DR. PAUL FARKAS

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR SOCIAL ACTION EVENTS Loaves and Fishes, Christ Church Cathedral, 35 Chestnut Street, Springfield—We serve lunch on the third Wednesday of the month. Join us on Wednesday, March 18, and Wednesday, April 15 at 11:45 am. Please bring a gallon of whole milk with you.

Shiloh Seventh Day Adventist Church, 797 State Street, Springfield – We prepare and serve dinner to approximately 50 hungry adults on the fourth Sunday of the month. Please meet us on Sunday, March 22, and Sunday, April 19 at 4:45 pm. Food can be cooked at home or purchased.

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TBE ANNUAL MEETING Sunday, March 8 Temple Beth El’s 101st annual meeting will be held on Sunday, March 8 at 10:30 am, following the Nechamen/Chernick Breakfast. Members will have the opportunity to vote on the slate of new Officers and Trustees. There will also be reports on the temple’s activities over the past year, as well as plans for the future. Pursuant to the requirements of TBE’s by-laws, the Nominating Committee presents the following slate, as approved by the Temple Board. This slate reflects nominees as of February 1. Other nominees may be added prior to the Annual Meeting.

Officers President Paul Farkas Vice Presidents Maxine Bernstein Daniel Plotkin David Ratner Susan Weiss Firestone Treasurer Eric Ratner Financial Secretary Jeremy Powers Recording Secretary Rhonda Goldberg Immediate Past Stuart Anfang President

TrusteesFor terms expiring 2018: Michelle Anfang, Andrea Goldstein, Susan Porter, Harlan Wahrman

For term expiring 2017: Ben Falk

For term expiring 2016: Andrea Shemesh

Nominating Committee: Stuart Anfang, Chair; Michelle Anfang, Jonathan Goldsmith, Tiffany Greene, Marianne Kornblumn, Jeffrey Mandell, Beverly Nadler

MORE HIGH HOLY DAY PLEDGES We gratefully acknowledge the following additional pledges to our High Holy Day campaign:Ben & Adena FalkAllen & Bev Nadler

Danny & Mollie PlotkinPauline Sawl

What Is Chazeret?Cantor Elise Barber I had what I thought was a great idea for this article. I would write about a little known part of the Passover seder plate – chazeret. Haven’t heard of chazeret? You are not the only one. Not all seder plates have a section for chazeret. Recently, I heard chazeret explained as just another kind of maror, a bitter herb. I piped up, “No it’s not! I learned that it is its own special thing when I studied at Pardes.” This moment sent me on a search. What had I learned about chazeret? I couldn’t quite remember. I thought that our teacher, Rabbi Zvi Wolff, had instructed us adamantly that chazeret had to be lettuce, not horseradish, as it was a holdover from a specific Temple practice. Still, I wasn’t sure I was remembering correctly. In order to find out, I contacted some friends I had studied with back in Jerusalem during 2006-2007. While it was great to get back in touch, they could not remember what I was referring to at all. Next I contacted the Pardes school office. They also had no idea what I was talking about, and suggested I post the question on the Facebook alumni-teacher website. No one got back to me. Next I consulted well-respected books on the Jewish holidays. All four made absolutely no mention of chazeret. Then I decided to check three haggadot. One haggadah did not mention chazeret and the other two explained it as an additional type of maror. One of these haggadot specified that chazeret should be horseradish. So what was left for a curious cantor to do? Search the Internet of course. All the pages I found stated that chazeret is another type of maror, and some specified that it should be unadulterated horseradish.

The best explanation I found was on a site called Mid Life Bat Mitzvah. It said, “Apparently some rabbinic scholars noticed that the phrase ‘bitter herbs’ was plural and interpreted that to mean there should be two different bitter vegetables on the seder plate. So some families put romaine lettuce or another bitter green on the seder plate, in addition to maror.” In conclusion, unlike in my son’s cheery kid books, this article does not have a happy ending. I was not able to find the exact answer to my question, and I was not able to remember precisely what my teacher Rabbi Zvi Wolff had taught me. But hopefully I have given a bit of useful information regarding our seder plate. I couldn’t help but notice that the word chazeret has the letter root chet,-zayin-reish just like the verb chazar which means “return.” This quest of mine certainly did help me return. I got back in touch with long lost friends. And while I searched for an answer, excitement returned to me. Excitement about Judaism, about learning, and about the chance our tradition gives us to revisit and explore.

COMMUNITY PURIM CELEBRATION AT TBEWednesday, March 4 We are pleased to be hosting the Purim celebration for our community this year! Join your friends from TBE, B’nai Torah, and Heritage Academy for a wacky and wild celebration together. Our theme is “Around the World,” so come dressed in a costume representing the culture of a country. We’ll have foods from different countries to sample. This event is not just for kids; everyone is encouraged to join us for a fun celebration! The schedule for the evening is as follows:

• 6:30 pm – Evening service and Megillah reading

• 7:30 pm (approximately) – The party starts after the Megillah reading. There’s no fee, and no reservations necessary – Just Show Up!

“If you want to help pull a friend out of the mud, don’t hesitate to get a little dirty.”

– BAAL SHEM TOV

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Searching for the HametzThursday evening, April 2 One of my most favorite Passover moments comes before the Seder! On the night before Seder I have completed my cooking and cleaning. I am absolutely exhausted. Every muscle in my body aches. Our children are excited for the company, the food, and yes, even the Seder. Our table is set and it looks beautiful with my mother’s china and my grandmother’s silver. Everyone is planning what hametz (leavened foods) they will eat after the holiday has ended. Sometime after sundown, Ken and I take about 10 pieces of hametz and hide them throughout our house. Before we begin the search for the hametz, we say the following blessing, “Blessed are You, Adonai our God, Ruler of the Universe, who sanctified us by commanding us to remove all the hametz.” We dim the lights and walk around with a flashlight and paper bag (traditionalists might prefer a candle and feather), looking for hametz. As our children search, we give hints as to whether they are looking in the right places.

The search for hametz takes about 10 minutes. We sometimes have to re-hide some, as we want all of our children to find some hametz. Once all the hametz is gathered, we recite the following formula. “All hametz in my possession, which I have not seen and have not removed, shall be nullified and be ownerless as the dust of the earth.” Then we go for ice cream.

Burning the HametzFriday morning, April 3 In the morning, Gabriel builds a fire in our fire pit and burns the hametz. After the hametz has burned, Gabriel and I recite the following formula. “All leaven or anything leavened which is in my possession, whether I have seen it or not, whether I have observed it or not, whether I have removed it or not, shall be considered nullified and ownerless as the dust of the earth.”

Selling of the Hametz Jewish tradition tells us that before Pesah we are to sell all of our leaven. We are to avoid owning or deriving benefit from wheat, barley, oats, spelt, or rye if they have been involved at all in the fermenting process. We do this to recall the hasty departure from Egypt. Traditionally upon selling hametz before Pesah, Jews donate to Maot Hittin (money for wheat). These funds are used to help Jews in need of money for celebrating the holiday. Rabbi Katz will be administering the fund this year. Mark contributions “Passover Fund” and return the form below to TBE.

HametzRabbi Amy Wallk Katz

PESAH SCHEDULE 2015Fast of the first born Friday, April 3 ......................................... 7:00 am Dispose of hametz by 10:00 am

Erev Pesah (First Seder) Friday, April 3 (No Minha Service) Candlelighting .......................................7:00 pm

1st Day/2nd Evening Pesah (Second Seder) Saturday, April 4 Morning Service ..................................... 9:30 am (No Minha Service) Candlelighting .......................................8:00 pm

2nd Day Pesah Sunday, April 5 Morning Service ..................................... 9:30 am Minha ......................................................5:45 pm Havdalah .................................................8:14 pm

Hol HaMoed Pesah Monday, April 6 - Thursday, April 9 Thursday & Friday Morning Services ..... 6:45 am

7th Evening Pesah Thursday, April 9 Evening Service .....................................6:00 pm Candlelighting .......................................7:06 pm

7th Day/8th Evening Pesah Friday, April 10 Morning Service .................................... 9:30 am Evening Service/Yizkor ..........................6:00 pm Candlelighting .......................................7:08 pm

8th Day Pesah Saturday, April 11 Morning Service/Yizkor ......................... 9:30 am Minha .....................................................6:00 pm Havdalah ................................................8:08 pm

Selling of the Hametz Form I _______________________________________________hereby authorize Reverend David Aminia or Rabbi Amy Wallk Katz to act as my agent in 2015 to sell any hametz that may be in my possession, wherever it may be (at home, place of business, car or elsewhere) in accordance with Jewish law.

Name ___________________________________________

Date ____________________________________________

Signature _________________________________________

Contribution to Maot Hittin $ ____________________________

PassoverGuide 5775 The following is based on the Guide that was prepared for the Rabbinical Assembly Committee on Jewish Law and Standards by Rabbi Barry Starr.

Of all the festivals, Pesah requires the most preparation. It takes me weeks to clean my kitchen and be ready to cook for the seders. Here are guidelines prepared by the Rabbinical Assembly. One section is devoted to foods and the second section describes how to kasher your kitchen. I realize this includes many more rules than you may follow in your home. I am distributing the Pesah guide for two reasons. First, I want you to understand what it means to kasher a kitchen for Passover. Second, I imagine many of you do clean your homes and prepare for the holiday. Perhaps this year you will clean differently. Or you will decide to kasher something that in years past you did not. Please do not feel that preparing your kitchen for Pesah is all or nothing. You may not own separate dishes, or extra pots and pans. But you can still clean your kitchen and prepare your home for the holiday. In a strange way I find that cleaning for Passover is really an enjoyable and spiritual experience. I do admit it is also very tiring. Please know, no question is foolish and I hope you will call me, as you prepare for the holiday. Wishing you and your family a zissen Pesah (a sweet Pesah).

—Rabbi Amy Wallk Katz

FOODS AND FOOD STUFFThe Torah prohibits the ownership of hametz (leavened grains) during Pesah. Therefore, we arrange for the sale of the hametz to a non-Jew. The transfer, mekhirat hametz, is accomplished by appointing an agent, usually one’s rabbi, to handle the sale. It is a valid and legal transfer of ownership. At the end of the holiday, the agent arranges to repurchase the items on behalf of the owner, since the hametz is again permitted. If ownership of the hametz was not transferred before the holiday, the use of any such hametz remains prohibited after the holiday (hametz sheavar ha-Pesah).

Since the Torah prohibits the eating of hametz during Pesah, and since many common foods contain some hametz, guidance is necessary when shopping and preparing for Pesah. An item that is kosher all year round, and that is made with no hametz, and is processed on machines used only for that item and nothing else, may be used with no special Pesah supervision. White milk would be an example of such a product. In most cases however, since we do not know enough about the processing of products or the sources of ingredients products ought to have Pesah supervision. Those who wish to follow other opinions should check with their Rabbi.

What follows is a general guideline. All kosher for Pesah items must have a label indicating the name of a recognizable living supervising Rabbi or kosher supervision agency. Items that have a label that is not integral to the package and does not indicate the product and current Pesah year, should not be used without consulting your Rabbi.

PROHIBITED FOODS Prohibited foods include the following: leavened bread, cakes, biscuits, crackers or coffees containing cereal derivatives, i.e. anything made with wheat, barley, oats, spelt or rye. Any food containing these grains or derivatives of these grains (the five prohibited species for Pesah) are forbidden. Foods containing flavorings, which may be derived from alcohol produced from one of these grains that would be hametz, need Pesah supervision.

Ashkenazi Rabbinical authorities have added the following foods (kitniyot) to the above list: e.g. rice, corn, millet, beans and peas. These and other plant foods (e.g. mustard, buckwheat and sesame seeds) are not permitted on Pesah. Although many rabbinic authorities have prohibited the use of peanuts and peanut oil, our Movement’s Committee on Laws and Standards has permitted their use and consumption on Pesah provided said items have proper kosher certification and no obvious hametz.

Most Sephardic authorities permit the use of all the kitniyot foods other than those that might have come in contact with the prohibited grains. The further processed products, whether liquid or solid from kitniyot, are also forbidden by most rabbinical authorities. These might include but not be limited to: corn sweetener, corn oil, soy oil and ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Israeli products are often marked “contains kitniyot” and, thus, Ashkenazi Jews who do not use kitniyot need to be vigilant when purchasing Israeli products.

PERMITTED FOODSThe following foods require no kosher l’ Pesah label when purchased before or during Pesah: fresh fruits and vegetables that have not been coated (the supermarket is required by the FDA to have a list of such products), eggs, fresh fish from a kosher source and fresh kosher meat or frozen, raw hekhshered meat other than ground products as ground products with prohibited materials could be made on the same equipment.

The following products require reliable kosher l’Pesah certification (regular kosher supervision being not sufficient) whether bought before or during Pesah: all baked goods (matzah, Pesah cakes, matzah flour, farfel, matzah meal and any other products containing matzah, canned or bottled fruit juices, canned tuna, wine, vinegar, liquor, decaf coffee, dried fruits, oils, frozen uncooked vegetables, candy, chocolate flavored milk, ice cream, yogurt, all cheeses and soda. (These restrictions hold for Ashkenazic Jews; for Sephardic Jews, the presence in some of these products of kitniyot but not hametz may not present a problem.

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The following foods require no kosher l’Pesah label but do require Kashrut supervision if purchased new and unopened before Pesah: natural coffee without cereal additives, non-confectioners sugar, pure tea (not flavored herbal or decaf tea), salt with no iodine, milk (in the absence of a kosher Pesah alternative), frozen uncooked fruit with no additives, and baking soda.

Any processed food bought during Pesah must have a kosher l’Pesah label.

Any detergent, because it is not a food and it is not eaten, may be used for Pesah.

KASHERING OF KITCHEN APPLIANCES & UTENSILSIt is customary (and easiest) to remove the utensils and dishes that are used during the year, replacing them with either new utensils or ones used year to year only for Pesah. This is clearly not possible for major appliances and may not even be possible for dishes and utensils. There is a process for kashering many, but not all, kitchen items thus making them kosher for Pesah. The general principle used in kashering is that the way the utensil absorbs food is the way it can be purged of that food (Ke-volo kakh pol-to). Thus utensils used directly on a fire need to be kashered by fire (libbun), utensils used in cooking require boiling (hag’alah) and utensils used only for cold food are kashered by rinsing. Specific items are covered below.

Earthenware (china, pottery etc) cannot be kashered. However, fine translucent chinaware that was put away clean and that has not been used for over one year, may be used after washing. The china is then pareve and may be designated for dairy or meat use.

Plastic items may not be kashered.

Metal utensils used in a fire must first be thoroughly scrubbed and cleaned and then must be subjected to direct fire. A blow-torch and a self-cleaning oven are two ways to accomplish this purging (libbun). This is a complicated and potentially dangerous procedure and may result in discoloration of the metal being purged. Exercise caution when performing libbun. Metal baking utensils cannot be kashered because they require direct fire and this will warp them.

To kasher metal pots used for cooking and eating and silverware and utensils wholly of metal not used for baking, thoroughly clean the item, then following a strict 24 hour waiting period where they are not used, then immerse the item (hag’alah) in boiling water. For pots and pans, clean handles thoroughly. Each item must be completely exposed to the boiling water. Pots and pans are either immersed in a larger pot of boiling water (may be done one section at a time) or filled with water brought to a rolling boil and then a heated stone is dropped into the pot such that the boiling water overflows to cover the sides of the pot. In the case of silverware every part of each piece must be exposed to the water at a rolling boil. Following this process, each utensil is rinsed in cold water.

Ovens and Ranges – every part that comes in contact with food must be thoroughly cleaned. This includes the walls and top and bottom of the oven. Then the oven or range should be heated as hot as possible. The oven should be heated at maximum heat for an hour; the range top until the elements turn red and glow. Then parts of the range top around the elements that can be covered should be covered, usually with aluminum foil. Self-cleaning ovens are put through the full cleaning cycle while empty. Following this process, the oven should be again cleaned to remove any ash. If the oven was very dirty to start, two cycles may be needed to assume a thorough cleaning.

Smooth top electric ranges present a challenge. We recommend cleaning the top thoroughly and then turning on the burners to maximum so that it heats as hot as possible, and then carefully pour boiling water on the surface area around the burners.

Microwave ovens that have no convection option should be thoroughly cleaned. Then an 8-ounce cup of water is placed inside, the oven is turned on until the water almost disappears (at least 6 of the 8 ounces is gone). Heating to complete dryness may damage the oven. A microwave oven that has a browning element cannot be kashered.

Convection ovens are kashered like regular ovens. Make sure to clean thoroughly around the fan.

Glassware is a subject about which the authorities disagree. One opinion requires that glasses be soaked in water for three days, changing the water every 24 hours. Another opinion requires only that the glasses be scrubbed and cleaned thoroughly or run through a dishwasher. Glass cookware is treated like a metal pot. See above for procedure.

Glass bakeware like metal bakeware cannot be kashered.

A dishwasher needs to be thoroughly clean including the inside area around the drainage. Then a full cycle while empty should be run with detergent. After 24 hours of not being used, the dishwasher is again run empty for the purpose of kashering. The dishwasher and the racks are pareve following this process. For enamel coated dishwashers, consult a rabbinic authority.

Other electrical appliances can be kashered if the parts that come in contact with hametz are metal and are removable, in which case they may be kashered like all other metal cooking utensils. If the parts are not removable, the appliances cannot be kashered.

Tables, closets, and counters should be thoroughly cleaned and covered for Pesah. The coverings can be contact paper, regular paper, foil or cloth that does not contain hametz (e.g. been starched with hametz starch). Alternatively, boiling water may be poured over the counters after they have been thoroughly cleaned.

A metal kitchen sink can be kashered by thoroughly cleaning and scrubbing the sink (especially the garbage catch), letting it sit for 24 hours and then carefully pouring boiling water over all the surfaces of the sink including the lip. A porcelain sink cannot be kashered, so Pesah dish basins and dish racks must be used, one each for dairy and meat.

Non-Passover dishes, pots, utensils and hametz food that have been sold as part of the selling of one’s hametz should be separated, covered or locked away to prevent accidental use.

This Passover Guide is also available online at www.tbespringfield.org.

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BOY SCOUT TROOP 32 ATTENDS CEREMONY Boy Scouts from Springfield Troop 32 attended the Change of Command Ceremony held at Joint Force Headquarters at Hanscom Air Force Base. The boys met with the Adjutant General of Massachusetts, Major General L. Scott Rice, and the outgoing Commander of the State Defense Force, Major General Gary Pappas, prior to the ceremony. General Rice made clear the history of the Massachusetts National Guard and the role it played in American history since the first muster on the Salem town green back on December 13, 1636. The troop is part way through its 91st year. With the extreme weather in January and February, sometimes the “we camp out every month” theme was interrupted. Sometimes they camped in tents, other times in lean-tos and cabins, or a mix of all three. During these campouts, the scouts hiked, learned about proper compass use, first aid, cooking (now an Eagle requirement), and had fun. March activities, in addition to regular Tuesday night meetings, include: attending a Merit Badge University at UMass, day trip to

an indoor water park, campout and learning about emergency preparedness. Activities in April include: running the District Pinewood Derby at Eastfield Mall, Florida Seabase (6 lucky scouts live and work on a sail boat for a week), and Awesome April Campout (the remaining scouts travel to Western New York for a week-long camping adventure that includes Niagara Falls, Niagara Power Plant, Erie Canal Museum, Tour of the Mt. Morris Dam, hiking in the Grand Canyon of the East—Letchworth State Forest, Corning Museum of Glass, and more). Troop 32 is one of the oldest troops in the region and was established in 1924. The unit meets at 7:00 pm each Tuesday night at Temple Beth El and serves youth from Springfield, Longmeadow, and recently, as far away as Ware. All boys are welcome to join. If you know of a boy between the ages of 11 and 17 who likes the outdoors and is interested in learning skills he will use for life and wants to have fun, have him contact Scout Master Jim Dowd at 530-0031 or Assistant Scout Master Larry Krainson at computercare@comcast.net. Please visit their website at www.bsatroop32.net and Facebook page at Troop 32.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1WSCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE RABBI RACHEL COWAN TO VISIT

out to lunch to celebrate together at that time. Sandi Kupperman, z”l, was a member of this group. The tradition continued for many years with whomever was available to meet. It has become more difficult since some members no longer live in this community. This year, they decided to honor Sandi’s memory through their sponsorship of our scholar-in-residence. On Friday, March 27, our Musical Kabbalat Shabbat service will begin at 6:00 pm. This service, sponsored by the Bernie Cohen Piano Fund, will feature Cantor Elise Barber and guest musicians. A delicious Shabbat buffet dinner will follow at 7:15 pm, prepared by Catering by Meital. Following dinner, Rabbi Cowan will address the topic of “The Gifts of Time: Growing Older with Resilience and Wisdom.” On March 28, following Shabbat services, there will be a delicious Kiddush lunch for the entire congregation. Following lunch, Rabbi Cowan will offer a workshop entitled “Growing Older: A Spiritual Practice for All Ages.” There is no charge for lunch, but reservations are appreciated so that we can plan enough food for everyone. We hope you will join us for discussions on these important topics on March 27 and March 28.

Troop 32 attends a recent state military ceremony.

PRE-PESAH SHABBAT DINNERFriday, March 27 Join us for the Pre-Pesah Shabbat Dinner on March 27. The menu includes: challah; hummus platter; mixed greens with chickpeas, corn and black beans in an avocado and cilantro vinaigrette; baked chicken breast with a seasoned bread coating and sautéed mushrooms; wild rice, quinoa and lentils with cranberries; Mediterranean orzo with onions and peppers; roasted vegetables with a balsamic glaze; fresh fruit; and warm chocolate cake with Tofutti. The cost for the dinner is $18 per person. R.S.V.P. by Friday, March 20 to the temple office, 733-4149, or pay online at www.tbespringfield.org. There will be open seating; tables of 8 may be reserved (please provide names of all 8 people with your reservation). Guests are encouraged to bring a bottle of kosher wine to share with their table.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15 COMMUNITY YOM HASHOAH OBSERVANCE 7:00 PM AT CONGREGATION B’NAI TORAH

SUNDAY, APRIL 26 COMMUNITY YOM HA’ATZMAUT CELEBRATION

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COMMUNITY EVENTSTIKVAH FAMILY SHABBATONApril 24-26 Camp Ramah in New England will host its third Tikvah Family Shabbaton for families who have children with disabilities. This Shabbaton offers the unique experience of an accepting, supportive, and fun-filled Shabbat retreat with programming designed specifically for parents, siblings, and children with disabilities. The weekend is open to Jewish families of any denomination, and no previous Ramah affiliation is necessary. For information, contact Tali Cohen, Director of Tikvah Vocational Services, at talic@campramahne.org or (781) 702-5290 x108

THE J STREET CHALLENGE FILM SCREENINGSunday, March 22, 7:00 - 9:00 pm A screening of the film The J Street Challenge will be held on Sunday, March 22 from 7:00 – 9:00 pm at the Longmeadow Community House, 735 Longmeadow Street in Longmeadow. The documentary explores the phenomenon of J Street, examining and debating J Street’s message and its leaders. The film presents J Street’s mission and related actions through speeches by its leaders and supporters, as well as comments and analyses from noted academics and writers who have challenged J Street’s mission and tactics. The film’s goals are to enlarge the discussion and to educate the community about the challenges it faces both from within and from without. This event is sponsored by CAMERA and Stand with Us. An R.S.V.P. is requested, but not required. There is no cost to attend, but a $10 donation per person is requested. For more information, contact Seth Tenenbaum at stenenbaum@lycos.com.

PIONEER VALLEY JEWISH FILM FESTIVALApril 12-26 The 10th annual Pioneer Valley Jewish Film Festival (PVJFF) will present 19 award-winning, entertaining and thought-provoking films from April 12-26, including New England and Pioneer Valley premieres of films from France, Germany, Poland, Israel and the United States. The festival line-up – representing 6 countries and screening over 15 days at 14 venues across the region – includes all genres, from comedy, drama and animation to documentary and thriller. A variety of post-screening programs have been created through partnerships with the area’s colleges and universities, the Massachusetts Multicultural Film Festival and other Jewish communal organizations. In celebration of its 10th Anniversary, the PVJFF will also feature retrospective screenings of Audience Award winners from the past. The Pioneer Valley Jewish Film Festival is produced by the Springfield Jewish Community Center and is funded in part by a grant from the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. Ticket prices are $9 for general admission, $7 for students/seniors (65+), or a four-pack can be purchased for $32. Tickets can be purchased in person, via phone and by mail at the Springfield JCC. Seating for all screenings is limited and early arrival is recommended. Tickets will be sold at the door subject to availability; all seating is general admission and the program is subject to change. For ticket information, schedules, trailers and venue directions, visit www.pvjff.org or contact the Springfield JCC, 1160 Dickinson St., Springfield, MA 01108.

We are so pleased and proud that Temple Beth El has secured 64 commitments from members who have agreed to remember the synagogue in their wills. These commitments will help to ensure that our children and grandchildren can continue to enjoy the same high level of worship, educational and social programs for years to come. If you would like to join all of those listed below as members of our Legacy Society, please contact Rhoda Peskin at 733-4149 or rpeskin@tbespringfield.org. Our gratitude goes to:

Dr. Michelle AnfangDr. Stuart AnfangLori BarowskyBarbara BinskyAnne BloomPaul BloomEdward BorowskyMichele BorowskyAlan BullockJudi BullockBill CaplinMichael ChernickAmy CohenPaul CohenNancy ColeEsta FarkasPaul FarkasDonna FeldmanSteven FeldmanBill and Lynn FoggleSeymour FrankelRobert FriedlanderJerry and Myra GoldIrma GoldsmithJonathan GoldsmithHarold GrinspoonAnn GuttmanRichard and Susan

HalpernDavid and Laura HirshTed and Judy Ingis

Maurice Katz (z”l)Ed and Sue KlineAlbert Kohn (z”l)Melvin LavinJeffrey Mandell Adele MillerDr. Robert and

Susanne OsofskyDr. Arthur Pava (z”l)Adam Peck and

Rhonda GoldbergJudd PeskinRhoda PeskinDan PlotkinMollie PlotkinDavid RatnerEllen RatnerRick RatnerPaul and Phyllis SalvageCantor Morton and

Frannie ShamesHarvey ShrageGrace SperlingRobert and Sharon TariffAbbie WeissMeyer WeissKaren WinerStan Winer

and 11 anonymous donors“Experience is more forceful than logic.”

– ISAAC ABRAVANEL

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IN DECEMBER & JANUARY

To our Torah Readers: Zachary Kornblum, Dr. Max Chorowski, Dr. Mark Sherman, Laura Broad, Adele Miller, Meredith Dragon, Lisa Nascembeni, Iris LinsonTo our Haftarah Readers: Adele Miller, Zachary Kornblum, Harlan Wahrman, Ellen Ratner, Dr. Dennis Gordan, Stanley Light, Dr. Fred Brownstein, Dr. Michelle AnfangTo our Service Leaders: Dr. Dennis Gordan, Dr. Max Chorowski, Steve Weiner, Emily Robinson, Michael Anfang, Emily Anfang

BREAKFAST SPONSORS: In memory of his wife, Sheryl

Curt FreedmanIn memory of her husband, Sam

Ruth PoppelIn memory of his grandmother, Jeanette Steinberg

Steve LepowIn memory of her father

Susanne Chorowski

If you would like to sponsor a breakfast, please contact Reverend Aminia at the temple office at 733-4149.

KIDDUSH SPONSORS:In honor of Zachary’s Bar Mitzvah

Eric & Marianne KornblumIn honor of their 9th wedding anniversary

Mike Ezrin & Elaine Becker-EzrinIn honor of the 60th anniversary of his Bar Mitzvah

Fred BrownsteinIn honor of Sisterhood Shabbat

Temple Beth El Sisterhood

If you are interested in sponsoring a Kiddush lunch to commemorate a special event, please contact Rhoda Peskin at the temple office at 733-4149.

Sadie KaimMARCH 28 PARASHAT TSAVSHABBAT HAGADOL Sadie Anna Kaim is the daughter of Dr. Steven and Leslie Kaim. She has an older brother, Ezra. Sadie is the granddaughter of Marjorie and the late Larry Malitz of West Hartford, CT and Barbara Kaim of New York. She loves spending time with her family and adores her little cousin Eva. Sadie is in the 7th grade at Glenbrook Middle School where she is an excellent student. She is an avid dancer and is in her 11th year of dance school. She loves to sing and is a member of Women’s Chorus and A Cappella club at Glenbrook. Sadie is a fan of the New York Yankees and UConn basketball. She loves vacationing on Cape Cod with her family. For her mitzvah project, Sadie purchased and donated a wide variety of recreational items to Hughes Health and Rehabilitation in memory of her late grandpa, Larry.

A warm welcome to our new members:Arkadi & Tatyana Zak and FamilyPerry & Patricia Kittredge

Donna & Steve Feldman on the birth of their granddaughter, Harper Ann Ryan, on November 26. The proud parents are Jodi and Tim Ryan of Natick.

Sharon & Glenn Rosenberg on their birth of their grandson, Jordan Phillip Rosenberg, on December 2. His parents are Melissa and Todd Rosenberg of NYC.

Robert & Karen Engell on the engagement of their daughter, Rebecca, to Scott Kasper. The wedding is planned for July.

Carol & Steve Steiner on the birth of their grandson, Wylie Joseph Steiner. He’s their first grandchild, and was born on December 6 weighing 7 lbs. 13 oz. The proud parents are Jonathan and Erica Steiner of Longmeadow.

Eleanor Freedman on the engagement of her granddaughter, Ilisa Goodman, to Boaz Vilallonga. Ilisa is the daughter of Joan Goodman. A wedding is planned for June.

Paul Farkas, Susan & Bill Firestone, and Dave Ratner, TBE members who were included in the list of “Movers & Shakers” in the Massachusetts Jewish Ledger’s annual list of people who have made a real difference in our community over the past year. Kol HaKavod!

Florence Lavin on the marriages of her three grandchildren: Joshua Berger to Summer Roy of Maine, Becca Weaver of Denver, CO to Jeff Levy of California, and Rachel Grant of Northampton to Evan Saunders of Boston.

Jean & Bill Licht who recently celebrated their 70th anniversary!

Springfield teacher Naomi Volain who has been named as one of 10 finalists for a $1 million international prize from the Varkey Foundation.

William RomeAPRIL 18 PARASHAT SHEMINI Will Rome is the son of Gary and Jane Rome, and the big brother of Jacob and Sydney Rome. He has a grandmother, Judith Rome, grandparents Alvin and May Rosenbaum and Jerry and Liz Rome. Will also has a special older “sister,” Telesha Williams. Will is a 7th grader at Williams Middle School in Longmeadow, where he excels in math and English and is learning to “habla espanol.” Will is also an avid reader and reads his favorites over and over. Will enjoys his time on the Student Council and volunteering with the Longmeadow Kids Care Club. Will enjoys all sports, but has a passion for soccer and baseball and plays both during the school year and at camp in the summer. Will loves his summers on Candlewood Lake where he is an accomplished water skier and enjoys paddle boarding and fishing . For Will’s Mitzvah project, he and his classmate Jordan DiTusa are working together. They traveled (with grandparents) to the National Holocaust Museum in Washington, DC as part of the National Grandparents Trip. Using their acquired knowledge, they are creating a multimedia platform to inform peers, local schools and community members about the Holocaust and the National Museum’s work to preserve artifacts and survivors’ stories.

The Officers and Board of Trustees of Temple Beth El wish you and your family a happy Pesah.

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We mourn the loss of the following from December 1 through January 31.

Leonard LeBlancFather of Christine “Tina” Smith

Sara MunicMother of Jerome Munic

Harry LevineBrother of Ruth Burstein

Charlotte Reich

Kathy GoodmanWife of Daniel Goodman

Paul BloomFather of Elliot Bloom

William MigdenFather of Donna Frankel

Rose BerenMother of Ann Koenig

Mark BraginskyHusband of Nataliya Braginsky

Meet the Gorfinkels Olga Gorfinkel Even though our family has lived in Longmeadow for almost fifteen years, we are relatively new members of Temple Beth El. Boris and I moved to United States from Belarus in 1991. Our first destination was Amherst, MA, where I continued my education in computer science and mathematics at UMass, and where Boris got his first job as a network engineer. As we moved from town to town over the next ten years, it never felt as if we belonged. We felt particularly lonely in December, when everyone around us was getting into the Christmas mood and we were the only ones in our entire neighborhood who celebrated Hanukkah. Often times, we would get into our car and drive to Longmeadow just to see a menorah in someone’s window. In 2001 we moved to Longmeadow, and in 2002 our first daughter, Leah, was born. Three years later we were blessed with our second daughter, Anna. Longmeadow felt like home ever since. When the time came for Leah to start kindergarten, the decision to send her to Heritage Academy was an

easy one. Growing up in the former Soviet Union, we didn’t have an opportunity to learn and practice Judaism. We wanted to make sure that our children have the chance that we didn’t have. As the girls were learning all about Judaism at Heritage, they were teaching Boris and me about Jewish traditions, holidays, and prayers. The more we learned, the more we felt that it was time for us to join a temple. I have to say that we felt uneasy at first. How do you walk into room full of people who know so much about the service and be the ones who don’t know a thing? How do you sit next to your children and listen to them pray, and not be able to follow? How do you put yourself out there and not be afraid of being judged? I have to say that our fears are still there, but I find myself at peace when we attend Shabbat services. Our life is very busy with work, school, sports practices and music lessons. We are in constant state of hurry, but as soon as we enter Temple Beth El all that goes away, and for a couple of hours on Saturday morning we get to spiritually and mentally connect with each other and with the community. Special thanks to Rabbi Katz for welcoming our family into the Beth El community.

“The opposite of love is not hate but indifference.The opposite of life is not death but insensitivity.”

– ELIE WIESEL

This list includes all donations of at least $10 received through January 23, 2015.

TEMPLE FUNDIn memory of Charlotte Wallk

Florence LavinLaura & Mark KatzJanis & Michael Green & familyMorton KatzVickie DonovanDr. Victoria Levander LuftmanJune OkunAmy & Mason RapaportSuzanne RosenbergDeborah Katz & Rodney PickSusan & Lenny ShakerAdelaide FirestoneGary & Abby GoodmanJudy & Ted IngisCongregation B’nai Torah

& Board of DirectorsCarol EngelsonSydney & Jerry HirschMyra & Mannie WiedmanCarol HaaseJudy & Steve ShelaskyThe Korn FamilyBob & Lynn DashevksyMark & Ronda JackowitzBernice KalickaCurt FreedmanRichard ResnickMitzi & Larry MacklerStuart & Michelle AnfangJudi & Alan BullockLaura BroadMarcia & Howard AlbertSheila BudnickEster CohenBetsy & Richard GabermanMiriam Lieff & Albert GoldbergRoberta & Bern GoodmanMiriam & Dennis GordanEric Ratner & Ann GuttmanRoslyn LeiterLesly & Charles ReiterLori, Randy, Audrey &

Sabrina WeinerMuriel DaneBernice ThalerLinda & Moshe RonenDr. Jacob & Estelle ShammashAmy Cohen & Harvey ShrageMickey & David ShrairKim StarkmanCarol Wernick & familyEsta & Paul FarkasEllen & Moe FieldsteinPatti BassellGloria RayShoshana Zonderman

& Saul PerlmutterJoy & Michael Leavitt

In memory of Kathy GoodmanLaura & Mark KatzSteven LepowCarol Wernick & familyRobert & Dorothy FleischerDr. Alan & Bette Gerstein

In memory of Paul BloomSteven LepowFlorence LavinMason & Amy Rapaport

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In memory of Milton KaplanHarrissia Lee Rappaport

In memory of Linda Katz Hammerman

Morton KatzIn memory of Larry Malitz

Roberta & Bern GoodmanSteven & Leslie Kaim & familyCarol Wernick & family

In memory of Eileen GrinspoonRoberta & Bern GoodmanLaura & Mark KatzDeborah HorwitzHannah ZimmerlingTakara StanleyHeidi HolzgrafeNika GrzejkaShoshana Zonderman

& Saul PerlmutterJoy & Michael LeavittIris & Marc Linson

In memory of George Nager Judi & Alan Bullock

In memory of Charles NirenbergEsta & Paul Farkas

In memory of Tova JacobEsta & Paul Farkas

In memory of Lisa Laudato’s grandmother

Esta & Paul FarkasIn memory of Leonard LeBlanc

Esta & Paul FarkasIn memory of Harry Levine

Fred BrownsteinIn memory of Stuart Alpert

Betty & Bob HowarthIn memory of Jacob Bernstein

Ellen & Mark GoldIn honor of Cantor Shames

Linda & Joel SchwartzMorton KatzRabbi Dr. Barat Ellman & Jay Golan

In memory of William GurwitzFlorence Gurwitz

In honor of Jane & Barry Schulman’s 50th anniversary

Myra & Jerry GoldIn honor of the birth of Dr. Steven & Carol Steiner’s grandson Wylie Joseph Steiner

Elizabeth & Philip IrvingBeverly & David HirschhornJoy & Michael Leavitt

In honor of Gillian Weissman’s Bat Mitzvah

Jacob GoldmanEsta & Paul Farkas

In honor of Zachary Kornblum’s Bar Mitzvah

Esta & Paul FarkasIn honor of Will Hurwitz’s Bar Mitzvah

Esta & Paul FarkasIn honor of Steve Weiner’s Haftarah Reading

Esta & Paul FarkasIn honor of Stanley & Sue Polansky’s daughter’s wedding

Joy & Michael LeavittIn gratitude to Dr. Steven Wolman for his kind help and support

Sydney Torrey

In appreciation to Dr. Paul FarkasLinda & Joel Schwartz

KIDDUSH FUNDIn memory of Harry Levine

Carol ResnickMazel tov to Cantor Shames for being honored by Temple Beth El

Dr. Alan & Bette Gerstein

MINYAN FUNDIn memory of Paul Bloom

Myra & Jerry GoldIn memory of Charlotte Wallk

Sara & Ben HorowitzIn memory of Harry Levine

Sheila BlumCarole Magidson

Mazel tov to Sue & Stan Polansky on their daughter Marni’s marriage

Karen & Stan WinerIn memory of Kathy Goodman

Gary & Abby Goodman

SANDI KUPPERMAN LEARNING CENTER FUNDIn memory of Charlie Nirenberg

Mark & Marie DraymoreRhoda & Judd PeskinRobert FriedlanderF.L. Roberts & Co., IncRabbi Jerome GurlandAmy GreenbaumCaryn ResnickSusan KuzonJoan RubinMuriel DaneToby & Bernie RubinBunny Demas ThayerBarbara & Irwin PahlJacob & Estelle Shammash Ronnie LeavittDoris Schatz & FamilySusanne & Bob OsofskyElaine & David MarlinDonna & Steve FeldmanRichard & Carol EngelsonPeoplesBankDavid & Jill GuzJerald & Vivian HassettJoan GoodmanBea & Jay LoevySandi & Mark CutlerJudy & Ted IngisMildred & Gabriel

Kitchener & familyJane & Barry SchulmanCurt FreedmanSylvia & George FalkStuart & Michelle AnfangMarjorie ShermanBeth & Jeffrey KastenDeborah Kaplan PolivyGabriel Auerbach & Lee GrayboffMiriam Lieff & Albie GoldbergBarbara GinsbergAlan & Bette GersteinMurtha Cullina LLPMickey & David ShrairTed & Ellie ShamitzWilliam & Jean LichtRoslyn LeiterGrace SperlingMiriam & Dennis GordanAmy Cohen & Harvey ShrageFlorence & Milton BarowskyMyra & Jerry GoldMartin Baicker & Kelly LarkinSusan & Jonathan Goldsmith

Liz & Jerry RomeSusan & Bill FirestoneSharon & Mark Levy Andrea & Jonathan ChasenSheila BudnickFlorence LavinBrenda & Alan CurtisHelen & Bob KaplanMiriam HirschhautBetsy & Dick GabermanKenneth & Rosalie AbrahamsEvelyn & Sydney BaronLucille SmolensGerri & Ed AronIlana SeligmanLinda KrasnowRobert J. GreeneIris & Marc Linson

In memory of Charlotte WallkKenneth & Rosalie Abrahams

YAHRZEIT FUNDJerry Fishman, beloved husband

Barbara FishmanBernard I. Coren, beloved father

Marlene RatnerMyer Allen, beloved brother-in-law

Sylvia AllenSarah Gurwitz, beloved mother-in-law

Florence Gurwitz Murray Fingeroth, beloved father

Rick & Harriet FingerothMilton Auerbach, beloved husband

Ruth AuerbachIan David Wacks, beloved son

Phil & Vicki WacksLeon Goodless, beloved father

Jeffrey GoodlessGertrude Will, beloved mother

Mickey ShrairLena Becker, beloved mother-in-law

Elaine BeckerAlbert Scher, beloved father

Janet KalickaLena Rubinwitch, beloved grandmother

Jan & David KalickaBernard Saltzman, beloved husband

Betty SaltzmanJoseph Kalicka, beloved father

Judy & Ted IngisJoseph Kalicka, beloved husband

Bernice KalickaGladys Stone, beloved mother

Phillip StoneErma Scheiderman, beloved mother

Gail StoneDavid Cowen, beloved companion

Roslyn LeiterFlorence Weinberg, beloved mother

Myra WiedmanLeonard Rubin, beloved husband

Claire K. RubinPearl Kramer, beloved mother

Sara HorowitzSaul Friedlander, beloved father

Robert FriedlanderHarriet I. Vinick, beloved wife

James E. VinickAlbert I. Green, beloved father

Michael Green

Lena Rubinwitch, beloved grandmother

Judy IngisJack Brittman, beloved father

Neil BrittmanTheresa Resnic, beloved mother

Harold ResnicWilliam Okun, beloved husband

June OkunSolomon Sinder, beloved father

Judy Sinder CohenMax Levine, beloved father

Doris ChaseRose Stone, beloved aunt

Allen ZippinEdward Michaelson, beloved brother

Saul MichaelsonFrances & Herman Abramson, beloved parents

Rinah & David MullensShefford S. Goldband, beloved father

Donna FeldmanAlan Goldberg, beloved son

Jack GoldbergMilton Auerbach, beloved father-in-law

Allan KantrowitzGilda Lerner, beloved mother

Howard LernerMarla Lerner, beloved sister

Howard LernerDavid Andrew Mendel, beloved son

Barbara P. FishmanMax Hausman, beloved father

Howard HausmanEllenore B. Levander, beloved mother

Vicki L. LuftmanAudrey Chase, beloved sister

Marian Chase BroderWilliam Okun, beloved father

Gary OkunShefford Goldband, beloved father

Jane SchulmanSamuel Barden, beloved husband

Adele BardenLouis Rachleff, beloved father

Fern NewmanIda Zippin, beloved mother

Allen ZippinRosalind Bleecker, beloved aunt

Anne BloomLucy R. Katz, beloved wife

David I. KatzNathan Goldman, beloved father

Susan L. RaddingRev. Herman B. Abramson, beloved father

Gil & Ann AbramsonConnie Bramson, beloved mother

Liz BramsonPaul Shrair, beloved father

Mickey & David ShrairBernard Broder, beloved father

Martin BroderScott GoldsteinMason & Amy Rapaport

Michael Frankel, beloved sonSeymour Frankel

Martin Levine, beloved fatherTara Wolman

Samuel Thorne, beloved fatherSue Polansky

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Nathan Max Solomon, beloved father

Marion MindelRichard Caplin, beloved father

Bill & Mary CaplinGus Nuger, beloved brother-in-law

Bernice KalickaPenny Rosen, beloved sister

Joyce WeinbaumMorris P. Rayburn, beloved husband

Ethel RayburnAbraham Neurick Goodman, beloved father

Bern GoodmanHarriet Dufault, beloved sister

Miriam MacklerSamuel H. Cutler, beloved father

Elaine BeckerMollie Bean, beloved mother

Selma & Bernie MilsteinJoseph Mirkin, beloved father

Marlene M. KimballMorris Keller, beloved father-in-law

Fred BrownsteinAtty. Sheldon M. Rosenthal, beloved husband

Marilyn RosenthalMatilda Goldberg, beloved mother

Albert GoldbergDavid Bramson, beloved father

Liz BramsonJay Posnick, beloved brother

Barbara P. FishmanBrenda Allen, beloved daughter

Sylvia AllenMarty Robinson, beloved brother

Jan DraymoreBernard Ginsberg, beloved father

Harlene GinsbergSamuel Resnic, beloved father

Harold ResnicRuth Peck, beloved mother

Adam PeckLeonard Jessop, beloved father

Karen Jessop WinerHelen Goldband, beloved mother

Jane SchulmanAnne Polep, beloved mother

Jeff PolepHelen Goldband, beloved mother, grandmother & great-grandmother

Donna Feldman & familyPauline Apelbaum, beloved mother

Adele BardenShirley Aliber, beloved sister

Adele BardenMelanie Kitchener Winn, beloved daughter

Marcy MeklerKeith S. Kitchener, beloved husband

Marcy MeklerDr. Mortimer Stone, beloved husband

Hortense StoneKalman Lutz, beloved father

Arthur Lutz & Ruth KimmellMarion Rubin, beloved mother-in-law

Claire Kinsler RubinAron Shteyn, beloved father

Isaac Stein

William Bean, beloved fatherSue Kline

Adele Gloth & Jerry Kaufman, beloved sister & brother-in-law

Phyllis Gloth FeldmanAdele Kaufman, beloved sister

Carole & Harvey GlothDoris Levine, beloved mother

I. Murray LevineElliott Michaelson, beloved brother

Saul MichaelsonWilliam F. Katz, beloved father

Morton KatzCelia Perlman, beloved mother

Sharon RosenbergSolomon Dalitzky, beloved father

Milt DalitzkyFannie Shapiro, beloved mother

Archie & Anne ShapiroJay A. Posnik, beloved husband & father

Laura, Mollie, Zach, & Ben PosnikNaomi Goldberg, beloved mother

Ellis GoldbergNaomi Goldberg, beloved mother

Linda BrenermanMorris Rayburn, beloved father

Carol RobinJames Poppel, beloved son

Ruth PoppelLouis Goldberg, beloved grandfather

Jack GoldbergJoseph Seigel, beloved father

Alan SeigelGerna Dolansky, beloved mother

Dorita HendersonHarry Morchower, beloved father

Bea LoevySelma Allen, beloved mother

Carole & Harvey GlothSeena Corn, beloved mother

David B. CornAnna Chain, beloved mother

Shirley SheproRobert S. Levine, beloved brother

I. Murray LevineLena Baer, beloved grandmother

Tara WolmanKenneth L. Broad, beloved husband

Laura BroadJoseph Kalicka, beloved father

David KalickaSarah Kerlinsky, beloved mother

Goldie NewmanBenny Schwartz, beloved father

Florence LavinHarry Epstein

Herman Chapaval, beloved relative

Al & Barbara ZippinHarry Epstein, beloved father

Roslyn LeiterRose Umansky, beloved mother-in-law & grandmother

Shirley, Larry, and Howard UmanSophie Schiffman, beloved mother

Susan RaddingGerard Benjamin, beloved father

Peter BenjaminRheta Seigel, beloved mother

Alan SeigelEvelyn Solomon, beloved mom

Joan Hurwitz

Sylvia Nuger, beloved sister-in-law

Bernice KalickaFrank Kalicka, beloved father-in-law

Bernice KalickaManuel Sperling, beloved father

Grace Sperling

CINDY JO KLIGERMAN YOUTH FUNDIn memory of Bernie Vinick

Tom, Eli, Netania, Adina, & Ilan Kligerman

In memory of Florence SchwartzTom, Eli, Netania, Adina,

& Ilan KligermanIn memory of Regina Gruskin Kugler

Tom, Eli, Netania, Adina, & Ilan Kligerman

In memory of Elaine Magidson Barnett

Tom, Eli, Netania, Adina, & Ilan Kligerman

In honor of the marriage of Shira Silton & David Wildman

Tom Kligerman & familyWishing Judy Shelasky a speedy recovery

Lillian & Sheree LevineIn memory of Rami Braun

Tom, Eli, Netania, Adina & Ilan Kligerman

In memory of Irving H. Levine, beloved husband & father

Lillian Levine & familyIn honor of Eli Kligerman’s outstanding first semester (straight A’s) at Springfield College

Tom, Netania, Adina, & Ilan Kligerman

FINGEROTH FAMILY FUND FOR JEWISH EDUCATIONIn memory of Charlotte Wallk

Richard & Harriet Fingeroth

ALAN GOLDBERG YOUTH FUNDIn memory of Isaak Solodkin

Shelley HodesWell wishes to Joan Katz on her new home

Sora Torff & Jack Goldberg

LINDY P. FEINSTEIN BOOK FUNDIn memory of George Nager

Michele FeinsteinIn memory of Hy Gelman

Michele FeinsteinThinking of Ila Shebar on her mother’s first Yahzreit

Michele FeinsteinIn memory of Charlotte Wallk

Michele Feinstein

BERNARD S. ALTMAN & SARAH ALTMAN MEMORIAL ISRAEL SCHOLARSHIP FUNDIn memory of Charles “Chuck” Antonoff

Melvyn AltmanIn memory of Helen Sheldon

Melvyn AltmanIn memory of Helen Bass

Melvyn AltmanIn memory of Charlotte Wallk

Melvyn Altman

HARRY KLINE USHER’S FUNDYahrzeit of Rebecca Grady Kline, beloved mother

Jan Kline

ADELE & EDWARD LEVITT FUNDWishing Marvin Levitt a speedy and complete recovery

Sora Torff & Jack Goldberg

HESED FUNDIn memory of Charlie Nirenberg

Shoshana Zonderman & Saul Perlmutter

THE SARAH & MAX OSOFSKY NEHAMA FUNDIn memory of Joan Weinstein

Susanne & Bob OsofskyIn memory of Eileen Grinspoon

Susanne & Bob OsofskyIn memory of George Nager

Susanne & Bob OsofskyIn memory of Kathy Goodman

Suanne & Bob Osofsky

CANTOR MORTON SHAMES MUSIC & CULTURAL FUNDIn honor of Cantor Morton Shames

Zelma LavinMyra & Jerry GoldDr. Gabriel Auerbach

& Lee GrayboffLaura Broad

Wishing Cantor Shames good health

Ester CohenJane & Barry SchulmanPhyllis Goldblatt

In recognition of Cantor Shames for his contributions to Temple Beth El

Jonathan & Susan GoldsmithMazel tov to Donna & Steve Feldman on the birth of Harper Ann with wishes for a life filled with love, joy and contentment

Margie & Eric Berg

WEINBAUM CHAPEL FUNDYahrzeit of Burton Weinbaum, beloved husband

Joyce WeinbaumYahrzeit of Burton Weinbaum, beloved father

Neil WeinbaumYahrzeit of Burton Weinbaum, beloved father

Lynn Cartwright

THE KATZ FAMILY LIBRARY FUNDIn memory of Paul Bloom

Connie & Richard GolberIn memory of Charlotte Wallk

Connie & Richard GolberIn honor of Suzanne Chorowski & Liz Marinelli

Pearl HellmanIn memory of Peggie G. Kaitz

Lewis B. Katz

RABBI’S DISCRETIONARY FUNDIn honor of Ben Posnik’s Bar Mitzvah

Myra & Jerry GoldIn memory of Charlotte Wallk

Celia MussmanSarah SmallSam & Maxine GoldbergRoz & Herb Levinsky

Susan & Bill FirestoneNorma Feder & Zeller FamilyMark & Sharon LevyKaren & Stan WinerMarty & Micki Rubin & familyMarvin SznelerDebbie StielRuth BursteinKen & Abby JaffeDonna, Emma & Joely FrankelTiffany & Scott GreeneCandace & Brian Katz

In appreciation to Rabbi Katz for Marni & Adam’s wedding

Sue & Stan PolanskyGet well soon to Billy Firestone

Dr. Malcolm & Betsey FreedmanCongratulations on the birth of Joseph & Cynthia Gensheimer’s new grandchild

Dr. Malcolm & Betsey FreedmanIn appreciation to Rabbi Katz

Jan NirenbergNancy & Jay FalikNorma Vinick

In appreciation to Rabbi Katz for Naomi’s Unveiling

Sidney & Evelyn BaronThankfulness for God’s blessings

Norma FederIn memory of Charlotte Reich

Roz & Herb LevinskyMazel Tov to Kobi & Andy Shemesh on Amos’ engagement to Becca

Joe LiebermanIn honor of Rev. David & Sharon Aminia’s daughter Rachel’s marriage to Sanjay Solomon

Joe LiebermanIn honor of Gillian Weissman’s Bat Mitzvah

Joe LiebermanIn honor of Helen Cohen’s birthday

Joe LiebermanIn appreciation for Rabbi Katz’s support

Jacqueline Bond

CANTOR’S DISCRETIONARY FUNDThank you for your support

Jaqueline Bond

MAHZOR FUNDIn memory of Paul Bloom

Susanne & Bob Osofsky

TREE OF LIFE

Leaves for the Tree of Life may be purchased for $250 to honor a friend or family member. Please contact Rhoda Peskin at 733-4149 if you would like to order a leaf.

YAHRZEIT PLAQUES

Yahrzeit plaques are fitting way to remember a loved one’s yahrzeit in perpetuity. They are displayed in the temple lobby each year during the week of the yahrzeit. The cost is $375. If you would like to purchase a plaque, please contact Reverend David Aminia at 733-4149.

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PROGRAM COMMITTEE HOSTS ANOTHER SMASHING SUCCESS Seventy of our members and friends enjoyed a lively evening of delicious food, great conversation, and a hilarious movie on January 10. The Program Committee continued their outstanding record of presenting warm and wonderful social events for adults of all ages. They prepared and served a sumptuous and plentiful Chinese buffet, all prepared from scratch, which was enjoyed while socializing and keeping track of the Patriots playoff game on various mobile devices. Keeping Up with the Steins,

which many of the audience saw for the first time, was a huge hit. People especially loved the cups of popcorn served on trays during the movie. The most oft-heard comment was “we should do this more often,” and some shared suggestions for future movies. We are truly grateful to Marge Robinson and her wonderful committee for all of their shopping, schlepping, cooking, serving and cleaning. She was ably assisted by Maxine Bernstein, Andrea Brinnel, Gary and Beth Danforth, Paul and Esta Farkas, Mike Robinson, Jody and Tina Smith, and Ellen and Rachel Smithline. Next on their agenda is the 7th annual Nechamen/Chernick Breakfast on March 8. See the article on page 1 for more details.

PREVIOUSLY @ TBE

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TALENTS OF OUR MEMBERS ENJOYED AT BEIT CAFÉ For the third time, members of our congregation had the opportunity to appreciate the talents of some of our members on Saturday, February 7. Participants included: Emily Robinson Quintet, Beth Cranna & Cantor Elise Barber, Mary & Hannah Adler, Dennis Gordan, Isaac Schein, Mark Barowsky, Carol Resnick, Rabbi Benjamin Weiner, Jeff Klotz, and Curt Freedman. We’d also like to thank Susan and Richard Halpern for opening their beautiful home for the evening.

Special thanks to our photographer, Paul Farkas.

Temple Beth El 979 Dickinson StreetSpringfield, MA 01108

NON-PROFITORGANIZATION

US POSTAGEPAID

SPRINGFIELD, MAPERMIT NO. 327

(413) 733-4149 • (413) 739-3415 Fax • office@tbespringfield.org • TBESpringfield.org

Office Hours Monday - Thursday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, Friday: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

OFFICERSDr. Paul Farkas, President Maxine Bernstein, Vice President Susan Firestone, Vice PresidentDan Plotkin, Vice PresidentDavid Ratner, Vice PresidentRick Ratner, TreasurerJeremy Powers, Financial SecretaryRhonda Goldberg, Recording SecretaryStuart Anfang, Immediate Past President

CLERGYAmy Wallk Katz, PhD, Rabbi

rabbikatz@tbespringfield.orgElise Barber, Cantor

cantorbarber@tbespringfield.orgReverend David Aminia, Ritual Director

daminia@tbespringfield.orgHerbert Schwartz, Rabbi Emeritus Morton Shames, Cantor Emeritus

Piano40@aol.com

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MARCH 20151 Cuppa Joe 9:00 am

2 SKLC Classes 3:00 pm

4 Erev Purim

Evening Service & Megillah Reading 6:30 pm

Community Purim Celebration 7:30 pm

5 Purim

Megillah Reading 8:30 am

B’Yahad 6:30 pm

6 Kabbalat Shabbat 6:00 pm

Candle Lighting 5:28 pm

7 Shabbat Ki Tissa

Havdalah 6:28 pm

8 Nechamen/Chernick Breakfast 9:15 am

Annual Meeting 10:30 am

9 SKLC Classes 3:00 pm

11 Lunch & Learn 12:00 pm

SKLC Classes 3:00 pm

12 B’Yahad 6:30 pm

13 Kabbalat Shabbat 6:00 pm

Candle Lighting 6:36 pm

14 Shabbat Va-yak’hel/P’kudei

Guest Speak Rabbi Ed Feld

Havdalah 7:36 pm

15 Cuppa Joe 9:00 am

16 SKLC Classes 3:00 pm

18 Lunch & Learn 12:00 pm

SKLC Classes 3:00 pm

19 B’Yahad 6:30 pm

20 Kabbalat Shabbat 6:00 pm

Candle Lighting 6:44 pm

21 Shabbat Va-yikra

Havdalah 7:44 pm

22 Cuppa Joe 9:00 am

23 SKLC Classes 3:00 pm

25 Lunch & Learn 12:00 pm

SKLC Classes 3:00 pm

26 B’Yahad 6:30 pm

27 Musical Kabbalat Shabbat 6:00 pm

Pre-Pesach Shabbat Dinner 7:00 pm

Guest Speaker Rabbi Rachel Cowan 8:00 pm

Candle Lighting 6:52 pm

28 Shabbat Tzav

Bat Mitzvah Sadie Kaim

Havdalah 7:52 pm

29 Cuppa Joe 9:00 pm

30 SKLC Classes 3:00 pm

APRIL 20151 Lunch & Learn 12:00 pm

Kadima/USY Event

2 B’Yahad 6:30 pm

3 Erev Pesah – 1st Seder Office Closed

No Kabbalat Shabbat Service

Candle Lighting 7:00 pm

4 Pesah – 1st Day

Shabbat Pesah

No Minha Service

Havdalah 8:00 pm

5 Pesah – 2nd Day

6 SKLC Classes 3:00 pm

8 SKLC Classes 3:00 pm

9 B’Yahad 6:30 pm

10 Pesah 7th Day – Office Closed

Musical Kabbalat Shabbat 6:00 pm

Candle Lighting 7:08 pm

11 Pesah – 8th Day

Havdalah 8:08 pm

12 Cuppa Joe 9:00 am

13 SKLC Classes 3:00 pm

15 Lunch & Learn 12:00 pm

SKLC Classes 3:00 pm

16 B’Yahad 6:30 pm

17 Kabbalat Shabbat 6:00 pm

Candle Lighting 7:15 pm

18 Shabbat Shimini

Bar Mitzvah William Rome

Havdalah 8:15 pm

19 Cuppa Joe 9:00 am

22 Lunch & Learn 12:00 pm

24 Kabbalat Shabbat 6:00 pm

Candle Lighting 7:23 pm

25 Shabbat Tazria-M’tzora

Havdalah 8:23 pm

26 Cuppa Joe 9:00 am

27 SKLC Classes 3:00 pm

29 SKLC Classes 3:00 pm

30 B’Yahad 6:30 pm

STAFFRhoda Peskin, Executive Director

rpeskin@tbespringfield.orgCaryn Resnick, Educational Director

cresnick@tbespringfield.orgLisa Laudato, Administrative Assistant

llaudato@tbespringfield.orgAlexandra Espinal, Comptroller

comptroller@tbespringfield.orgMarie Sampson, Administrative Assistant

sklc@tbespringfield.orgDebbie Peskin, Communications Coordinator

communications@tbespringfield.orgNora Gorenstein, USY Advisor

ngorenstein@tbespringfield.orgLiz Marinelli, Librarian

katzlibrary@tbespringfield.org

Ralph and Debra Ritchie enjoying Chinese Food & a MovieMAJOR EVENT – BLUE

BAR/BAT MITZVAH –GREEN