BulletinSh’vat/Adar 5781 www.BethEmethAlbany.org February 2021

The

The February Bulletin has been underwritten by Cynthia Freedman, the Marinstein family and the Benoit family, in loving memory of Marvin Freedman and Dorothy & Maurice Frommer

Lunch & Learn

Later Time This Month Wednesdays at 1:00 pm in February

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Join us for a spirited, musical celebration of Shabbat. Fun for ALL ages! Friday, February 5 at 5:30 pm

Brooks BBQ is Coming Back!

Sunday, February 28 at 4:30 pm

Rabbinic Search Please Join Us. Your Thoughts Count!

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appy urim

Wishing You A

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Social Action Shabbat Guest Speaker Lee Winkelman, RAC-NY

Friday, February 19

Details on ordering page 4

Virtual

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A Message From Rabbinic Intern, Alexandra Stein

From Purim to Purim So Much Has Evolved

As the days lengthen and we move incrementally closer to spring, we’re also approaching Purim, which we will celebrate at the end of this month. It is a bittersweet landmark: last Purim was the first holiday we were not able to celebrate in person. But it is also an extraordinary landmark: the adaptability and dedication of the Beth Emeth community during this past year has been incredible to behold.

From Zoom classes with people of all ages, to drive-throughs, trail walks, online services, goodie bags, phone calls, and more, we have shown up for each other in myriad innovative ways.

For me, a particular joy in what has often been quite a dark time has been getting to learn with (and some-times meet for the first time!) so many members of our community. In our adult classes (much like services), people connected to our community are logging in, not just from Albany, but from all over the country, and together we are making Zoom rooms a holy space. Meanwhile, our kids and teens, who have weathered so many changes this year, are continuing to show up for one another with kindness, flexibility, and curiosity. This month, we will have the chance to be led in prayer by our teens, in the CyBEYG Service on February 12. It, along with Virtual Shabbat Unplugged the week before, and Social Action Shabbat the following week - should be a wonderful time.

There’s a moment in Megillat Esther, which we read each Purim, that seems particularly fitting this year. Mordecai, having learned that Haman has a plot to kill the Jews of the empire, approaches his cousin Esther, the queen. He believes that Esther can help her people by speaking to her husband, the king, but Esther is afraid that if she approaches the king without an invi-tation, she could be killed. And so Mordecai answers her fears in two ways. First, he very practically reminds her that Haman’s plot endangers her too: she cannot choose the challenges of the time in which she is living, she can only choose her response. And then, he adds this:

“And who knows? Perhaps it was for this moment that you came to power.” (Esther 4:14)

Mordecai is not a prophet; much like us, he has no certain way of knowing why his world is the way it is, or what will happen next. But he has faith in Esther, and when he lends her his faith in the form of a ques-tion, she is able to access her own courage and strength. This faith that all people have tremendous gifts to offer (and so we must work for equity and inclusion) is at the heart of Jewish Disability Awareness and Inclusion Month (JDAIM), which we celebrate in February. And it is also, more broadly, at the heart of all our efforts to be a holy community, a Kehillah Kedoshah. Who knows? Perhaps it was for exactly this moment that we each became exactly who we are. May we enter this Purim season with the knowledge that we have what we need inside of us, that we have been and can continue to be creative, connected, and brave.

Alexandra Stein Rabbinic Intern

Congregation Beth Emeth Bulletin Deadline for the March issue is February 5. Published monthly except in August. Please submit to DebbieSchaffer18@gmail.com

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Queen Esther and her mom, 2018

All services will be conducted remotely. Please join us virtually at: www.BethEmethAlbany.org. The link to our “Live Stream” is at the upper left hand side of your screen. Live Streaming underwritten by Marge and Barry Hollander

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Friday Evening, February 5 5:30 pm Erev Shabbat Unplugged Service Shabbat Yitro Exodus 18:1 - 20:23 Saturday Morning, February 6 9:30 am Torah Study with Susan KushnerFriday Evening, February 12 5:30 pm CBEYG Erev Shabbat Service Shabbat Mishpatim Exodus 21:1 - 24:18 Saturday Morning, February 13 9:30 am Torah Study with Alexandra Stein Friday Evening, February 19 5:30 pm Social Action Erev Shabbat Service Shabbat T’rumah Exodus 25:1 - 27:19 Saturday Morning, February 20 9:30 am Torah Study with Susan Kushner Friday Evening, February 26 5:30 pm Erev Shabbat Services Shabbat Sushan Purim - T’tzaveh Exodus 27:20 - 30:12 Saturday Morning, February 27 9:30 am Torah Study with Alexandra Stein

Virtual Worship Service Schedule

Kathy’s Corner

People Who Make A Difference It is the people at Beth Emeth that make it special. It’s the great volunteers who help on a Board level and the many, many other volunteers who keep our programs strong by participating, raising spirits and funds. The staff is pretty incredible as well. A couple of months ago I shared with you my admiration for the two Debbies that I work alongside. I would like to share my affection for two other CBE office employees.

Teresa Lounsbury is Beth Emeth’s very capable book-keeper. She carefully and meticulously keeps track of each financial transaction, making sure records are accurate. With so many names that are similar in a congregation of our size, this is not an easy task. Teresa helps out with Human Resources and keeps our cemetery records in order. If you ever need to make a contribution or have a question about your bill, please reach out to Teresa at ext. 223. And a huge thank you to Teresa for once again, her 8th time, getting everyone’s annual tax statements out to them!

Susan Debronsky is the executive assistant to Rabbi Shpeen and Cantor Kohn. However, to me, she is that very important cog in our administrative team. Susan is super organized, friendly to all that call her and juggles many different balls each and every day. She keeps everyone on task; asking questions so that she is informed and she can provide congregants correct information. Susan helps process perpetual memorials and she prepares the Kaddish list for the clergy each Shabbat. In her time away from CBE, Susan is the prin-cipal cellist at the Albany Symphony Orchestra. We are moved by her musical talents on Kol Nidre. If you need assistance, Susan can be reached at ext. 224.

An incredible place with incredible people. We are fortunate.

Stay safe, Kathy Golderman, Executive Director

We’re back in print... Beth Emeth is now offering the opportunity to sponsor an issue of The Bulletin.

in honor of a milestone •in memory of a loved one •in appreciation of someone special •

If you are interested in sponsoring, please call Kathy Golderman at ext. 225. Let us know if you’d like to go green and you will receive an email when it’s online.

Susan Debronsky

Teresa Lounsbury

Kathy Golderman

In recognition of Sara Lee and Barry Larner’s longstanding annual commitment and support of our special needs and scholarship programs for the Religious School, the Tree of Life Fund will now be named...

The Larner Family Tree of Life Fund See page 8

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Mazel Tov To... Douglas Berinstein son of Ronald Berinstein passed the New York State Bar exam. Lauren Iselin has been named Chairwoman for Israel by the Jewish National Fund (JNF.)

In Memoriam Beth Emeth recognizes with profound sorrow the deaths of our members: Arnold Applebaum Father of Lisa (Michael) Rome and Jeffrey Applebaum Bruce Gottlieb Husband of Steffi Silon Father of Nari Gottlieb and Mara Gottlieb Son of Ruth Gottlieb Brother of Robin (Charlie) Liffman and Ellen Gottlieb Selma Heflich Mother of Lois (Judd) Suresky, Gail (Russell) Kaphan and Gary (Toby) Heflich

Our Temple Family

Barbara Baker Susan Bierman Dick Feldman Karen Geduldig Mark Glaser Diane Hallenbeck Polly Hartman Alan Iselin Mary Kavaney Paul Lipman Michael Lipnick Anne Marmulstein

Lisa Mayron David Alan Miller Amy Price Robin Rapaport Dwayne Robinson Stuart Rosenberg Malcolm Roth Ed Scher Hal Sokol Ruby Steinhardt Mel Waldman

February Special Anniversary Liz and Ed Berger ~ 30 years Lisa Freedman and Meg Hughes ~ 30 years Marlene Rosenfield-Crawford and Dana Crawford ~ 35 years Irene and Alan Richter ~ 40 years Shirley and Fred Simon ~ 50 years

It is our practice to acknowledge congregants on special birthdays (starting at age 35) and anniversaries (beginning with the 10th) in multiples of five years. Please send events you want to share, or ones we have missed to Bulletin@BethEmethAlbany.org.

February Special Birthdays

Nominations for Board of Trustees In accordance with the Congregation’s By-Laws, a committee of the Board of Trustees will nominate members for Trustee positions to be filled at the next Annual Meeting. Melissa Greenberg will serve as committee chair and the names of other members of the committee will be published in a later Bulletin. If there are members of the Congregation whom you would like to recommend for the Board, please contact Melissa at MLG8303@yahoo.com or 518. 669.5130.

Purim Chicken Dinner

Sunday, February 28 at 4:30 pm

Complete dinner is $12 (Chicken, Baked Potato, Cole Slaw, Roll and Oatmeal Cookie) Order by February 26, Online or contact Deb Sokoler at DSokoler@BethEmethAlbany.org Pick up at CBE Parking Lot - please wear a mask

I hope that all my fellow congregants are basking in the winter white glow or perhaps the warm Florida sun, but either way I hope the entire Temple family is healthy and well during these winter months. I do not know what the future brings, but I know I miss being in the temple and I wanted to take a page out of the playbook of Mr. David Letterman and let you know:

The Top Ten Things I Look Forward to When the Temple Reopens:

The smell of brisket in the air when Brotherhood cooks for special events and holidays.

Random stops by the Temple to say hello to the professional and administrative staff and anyone who happens to be relaxing in the Rosen Newman Lounge.

Having board meetings in Wolk Hall with all the wonderful trustees instead of via Zoom.

Watching the Dorkins manage, with grace, countless temple volunteers at the Garage Sale, the largest single showing of CBE volunteers during the entire year.

Listening to the Cantor and Temple band live and in person.

Picking up my kids from religious school and seeing 100+ kids running towards all the parents with big smiles on their faces.

Watching members’ joy at seeing all the renovations to the Sanctuary, Paul Hall and Wolk Hall.

Sitting in the chapel at Shabbat Services taking a deep breath of relaxation from the week.

Greeting the members at the High Holy Days, an absolute highlight of my year.

Knowing the congregation is safe and healthy and able to do everything that helps enrich their lives.

Although this was a fun list to write, I fully understand how much the Temple and building mean to our members. Please know we all share the same goal and we all feel the void. You may share some of my feel-ings and you likely have your own unique feelings. We should all ask ourselves: What is my Top Ten List?

My continued pledge to our members is that we will work to ensure safety first but also continue our work towards the bright future. My prayer for this month is that every Top Ten List of every member will be fulfilled as soon as the world allows and that when the winter hibernation is complete, we are well on our way to-wards our shared goals. Please continue to stay safe and healthy and know your temple family is with you.

Michael Lurie, President MLurie@LurieCPAs.com

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President’s Perspective

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While You Were Gone...

Paul Hall and Wolk Hall got new carpeting

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Walk with Sisterhood on the Bethlehem Rail Trail Saturday, February 6 at 2:30 pm New spot on the Rail Trail- Meet at The Kenwood Avenue Rail Trail Parking Lot (near Grove Street) Due to the increased COVID instances in the region, please wear masks. The trail is not plowed or shoveled, so make sure you wear winter boots. It will be great to get some fresh air!

RSVP to Jacki Stein (in case of weather) at CBESisterEvents@gmail.com

Sisterhood of the Traveling Pots and Pans Saturday, February 6 at 7:00 pm

Join us for Havdalah followed by our own Chef, Mark Burgasser, as he prepares

Apple Craisin Crostata and Yono's Cheesecake (with permission from Donna Purnomo) Recipe and Zoom link provided upon registration. Free for Brotherhood/Sisterhood members; $18 for non-members.

Contact - DSokoler@BethEmethAlbany.org

Later Lunch & Learn

with Alexandra Stein Wednesdays, 1:00 - 2:00 pm (new time)

Zoom and Live Stream links at BethEmethAlbany.org. Join “Live’ or watch later. Contact Deb Sokoler at DSokoler@BethEmethAlbany.org or 518.436.9761 x230 February 3 Time Travel in the Talmud The Talmud has some very cool time travel stories (seriously!), which the rabbis used to explore questions like "how are we connected to the people who came before us and will come after us?" and "why is there suffering in the world?" In this "later Lunch & Learn," we'll study a few of these stories, including Moses' journey to the time of Rabbi Akiva, Adam's experiences seeing the future, and Honi the Circlemaker's very long (Rip Van Winkel -style) nap. February 10 What Does It Mean to be Created in the Image of God? Genesis 1:27 contains the intriguing suggestion that all human beings were created in the image of God. What does this mean? In this "later Lunch & Learn," we'll explore some interpretations of this concept in the Mishna, Talmud, and Midrash, and their connections to diversity, equity, and inclusion work today. February 24 Why Do We Celebrate Purim the Way that We Do? How did we get from the (very action-packed) story in the Book of Esther to the customs and mitzvot we asso-ciate with Purim today? And how might these customs and mitzvot be meaningful for us this year? In this "later Lunch & Learn," we'll explore the origins of several dif-ferent customs and commandments associated with Purim, with particular attention to the ways in which these customs and commandments are interpretations of the Book of Esther itself. LOOKING AHEAD... March 3 Reconstructing Miriam The biblical character Miriam is enigmatic. She shows up at a number of crucial moments in the story of the Israelites' Exodus from Egypt and journey to the Promised Land, and is called a "prophet," but the pieces of her story preserved in the Torah are much more fragmentary than that of either of her brothers, Aaron and Moses. We will look at the biblical texts that mention Miriam, exploring what they teach us about her and which questions they leave unanswered, and then study some midrashic and modern interpretations of Miriam's story.

Sisterhood Sock Fundraiser $18 per pair. If interested, please contact: Lisa Proskin at LProskin@nycap.rr.com or 518.221.1187

Brotherhood Thursday, February 11 8:30 am - 4:00 pm - Skiing at GORE Mountain 7:30 pm - Shmooze - 8:00 pm - Virtual Card Night

Sunday, February 14 - 10:00 am Brotherhood Hike at Peebles Island State Park

Sunday, February 28 - 10:00 am Brotherhood Hike - Colonie Town Park Trailhead 278 Schemerhorn Rd. #184, Cohoes, NY

For details and to RSVP to all above events, contact Mark Swyer: MDSwyer@hotmail.com or 518.857.2850

Tikkun Olam

Healing the World

7Brotherhood Working in the Soup Kitchen

Please join me in representing our congregation as we virtually advocate for Parole or Voting Rights Reform, the issue selected by RAC-NY, the Reform Jewish Movement’s statewide social justice effort. RAC-NY members work to move New York closer toward the Jewish values of wholeness, justice, and compassion. As CBE has been a leader in this movement for years, let’s grow and engage our base! I’m a member of the research team of lay leaders who met with allies, legis-lative aides, and others to identify possible 2021 issue campaigns. And I look forward to seeing you join our team. If you have questions, please reach out to me. If you know of others who might be interested, please let me know.

On February 19, Lee Winkelman, the RAC NY lead organizer--who was very suc-cessful in building RAC-CA, will be speaking at our Social Action Shabbat Service. Get to know Lee and learn more about the RAC-NY 2021 campaign. Thanks everyone!

Abby Nash anash1@me.com

518.466.1244

The Renaissance Group Cross Country Skiing/ Snowshoeing Sunday, February 7 at 12:00 pm

Experience the local beauty of the Rensselaer Plateau at the lovely Pineridge Ski Area. You may not know how to ski but if you can walk then you can snowshoe and it’s a lot of fun! Noshes provided. (Bad weather date: February 14)

Fees: Cross Country Ski Day Pass: $20/ Ski rental: $18 Snowshoe Day Pass: $10/ Rental $15

Contact: Joe Schwartz at 518.698.7466 RSVP: by Friday, February 5 to Joe at JoeySchwartz61@gmail.com

For directions and information about Pineridge visit PineRidgeXC.com

CyBEYG Shabbat - February 12 (Cyber Congregation Beth Emeth Youth Group) The service, written and led by Religious and Cultural Vice President Ariel Siegfeld, will be held virtually this year. The theme of this year’s service is Inclusion, as February is Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance and Inclusion Month. CBEYG looks forward to this service every year and we hope that you can join us in welcoming Shabbat.

CyBEYG meets virtually, Wednesday’s at 6:00 pm. If you are interested in having your high school student join, please contact CBEYouthGroup@gmail.com

Kids

THE LARNER FAMILY TREE OF LIFE FUND

Your generous support to this fund, allows The Einhorn Center for Jewish Education to provide enriching learning, helping to create strong Jewish identities. From Consecration to Confirmation

2019 CBEYG Retreat

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PurimPurim Shabbat Friday, February 26, 5:30 pm Zoom in your Costume for the Megillah Reading, Purim Spiel and Costume Video (We’re making a video! Send in a picture wearing your costume by February 19 to DSokoler@BethEmethAlbany.org)

Virtual Hamantashen Cooking Thursday, February 18, 7:00 pm Learn the basics of making this de-licious treat and get creative for Purim! Sponsored by Sisterhood, The Einhorn Center for Jewish Education and CBEYG This event will be Live Stream. If you can’t make it, you are welcome to view it afterward on our website.

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We are happy to announce that we have received a generous grant from

Congregation Temple of Israel Foundation of Amsterdam, NY This grant will provide for educational scholarships to our Einhorn Center for Jewish Education

Teddy Bear Tot Shabbat via Zoom

Saturday, February 20 11:00 am Join Shara Siegfeld, Cantor Kohn and Rabbinic Intern, Alexandra Stein for a fun celebration of Shabbat which will include a special appearance by Rick Recht.

Zoom with your favorite stuffed animals! This program will also be archived on the CBE Live Stream page.

Jigsaw Puzzle Exchange Doing jigsaw puzzles during the Pandemic? We are setting up a bucket in front of temple where you can drop off puzzles you've already completed and pick up a new one! Contact: DSokoler@BethEmethAlbany.org

Reyut

Greetings! I’m thrilled to introduce myself as the new chairperson of the Reyut Committee. Having served on the Beth Emeth Board of Trustees for almost three years, and previously chaired “Feast-a-licious,” I am excited about this new role.

Frankly, I didn’t realize until now all of the thoughtful ways Reyut serves our congregation and why it’s such a great committee to get involved with. Do you know how Reyut serves?

By delivering Shabbat Bereavement Bags with •challah, candles, and grape juice after a loved one has passed. By delivering New Baby Shabbat Bags with a me-•zuzah (provided by Sisterhood), juice and challah. By providing Mitzvah Meals for congregants facing •an illness, death, experiencing a challenging time, for the arrival of a baby or, needing to quarantine. By visiting members who reside at The Daughters •of Sarah Nursing Home and sending them notes.

As you can see, there are tasks to be shared. New volunteers are always welcome and needed – it’s not even necessary to come to a meeting! If you have just five minutes to spare from time to time to perform an act of kindness that will make you feel good, join Reyut. And, if you or someone you know might be in need of one of these services contact me (info below) or, Deb Leibman, the Chair of Mitzvah Meals, at Liebach@hotmail.com, 518.439.6959.

Due to the restraints of COVID, some of our support has required modification. Let me reassure you, however, Reyut continues its responsibility of seeing to it that members know they’re valued and not alone. I, myself, feel it is an honor to serve on such a mean-ingful task force and look forward to the wonderful feelings of connection it will bring.

On behalf of the Reyut Committee, wishing you all good things in this new year,

Carolyn Ginsburg Chair of the Reyut Committee

CBeen2@gmail.com, 518.281.4234

Supporting Our Members

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February Calendar

Wednesday, February 24

Saturday, February 20

9:30 am 11:00 am

Torah Study Susan Kushner Teddy Bear Tot Shabbat

Sunday, February 7

Monday, February 8

Religious School schedule unless otherwise noted: Kindergarten - Grade 6: Sundays, 10:00 - 11:10 am Grades 3 - 6: Wednesdays, 4:30 - 6:00 pm

Grade 7: Wednesdays, 4:00 - 6:00 pm Grades 9-10: Wednesdays, 7:00 - 8:00 pm CBEYG Grades 9-12: Wednesdays, 6:00 - 6:40 pm

Friday, February 5

Friday, February 12

5:30 pm CBEYG - Erev Shabbat Service - theme- Jewish Disability Awareness Month

Wednesday, February 101:00 pm Lunch & Learn with Alexandra Stein

Sunday, February 21

11:00 am CBE at The Soup Kitchen

Friday, February 26

9:30 am 11:00 am

noon

Brotherhood Board Meeting CBE at The Soup Kitchen TRG XC Skiing and Snowshoeing

7:00 pm Knit and Nosh

Sunday, February 14

Saturday, February 139:30 am Torah Study with Alexandra Stein

Saturday, February 27

Thursday, February 11

8:30 am 7:30 pm 7:30 pm

Brotherhood Skiing at Gore Brotherhood Virtual Card Night Sisterhood Board Meeting

Brotherhood Hike at Peebles Island Help at the Soup Kitchen

10:00 am 11:00 am

Friday, February 19

5:30 pm Social Action Shabbat Service

Monday, February 15

Monday, February 22

7:00 pm Knit and Nosh

5:30 pm Erev Shabbat Service - PURIM Magillah Reading and Purim Spiel

9:30 am Torah Study with Alexandra Stein

Monday, February 1

Wednesday, February 31:00 pm Lunch & Learn with Alexandra Stein

7:00 pm 7:15 pm

Knit and Nosh CBE Board Meeting

5:30 pm Erev Shabbat Unplugged Service Saturday, February 6

9:30 am 2:30 pm 7:00 pm

Torah Study with Susan Kushner Sisterhood Walks the Rail Trail Sisterhood of the Traveling Pots and Pans

Temple Offices Closed - President’s Day

1:00 pm Lunch & Learn with Alexandra Stein

Sunday, February 2810:00 am 11:00 am 4:30 pm

Brotherhood Walk - Colonie Town Park CBE at The Soup Kitchen Brook’s BBQ

Wednesday, February 167:30 pm Membership Committee Meeting

Thursday, February 187:00 pm Hamantashen Baking Event

Please note ALL ACTIVITIES ARE VIRTUAL unless otherwise noted. You can find links to join on our website, BethEmethAlbany.org If you have any trouble registering for an event, you can always call the contact listed, or our Program Director, Debbie Sokoler, will assist you 518.436.9761 x230.

The Difference Between Zoom and Live Stream? Zoom - you need a link and sometimes a password to join. Most Zoom programs are interactive. Some are archived on our Live Stream page.

Live Stream -- is similar to watching TV! You can ALSO access anytime after the event is linked to our website.

No Religious School

No Religious School

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Caring Conversations

If you are speaking with someone and they ask you to repeat what you have said, or say that you are mumbling, look confused, or seem to be having trou-ble understanding you, they may have a hearing loss.

Patience and being mindful of the tips offered below can foster meaningful conversations that create a feel-ing of inclusiveness, connectivity and fulfillment. That’s what Congregation Beth Emeth is all about!

Gain attention Gain the listener's attention before you begin talking. Start the conversation by saying the person's name or tapping their shoulder or hand. If the person with hear-ing loss hears better from one ear, move to that side of the person.

Maintain eye contact Face the person who has the hearing loss. Make eye contact. Your facial expressions and body language pro-vide critical information. For example, you can "see" a person's excitement, joy, confusion or frustration by watching the facial expressions or body language.

Keep hands away from face When talking, try to keep your hands away from your face. You will produce clearer speech and allow the lis-tener to make use of those visual cues by keeping your mouth and face visible. Do not talk with food in your mouth or while chewing gum. Keep in mind that heavy beards and moustaches can also hide your mouth.

Speak naturally Speak distinctly, but without exaggeration. You do not need to shout. Shouting actually distorts the words. Speak at a normal rate, not too fast or too slow. Use pauses rather than slow speech to give the person time to process speech.

Rephrase rather than repeat If the listener has difficulty understanding something you said, use different words with the same meaning. For example: “I am going to the grocery store." Repeat once and then rephrase. “I am going to the market."

Talk away from background noise Try to reduce background noises when talking. Turn off the radio or television. Move to a quiet space. When going to a restaurant or making dinner (post COVID) reservations, ask for a table away from the kitchen, server stations or large parties.

Good lighting is important A person with hearing loss can speechread to assist in hearing so lighting on your face is important. Sit where there is good lighting so that your face can be more easily seen. Avoid sitting with strong lighting coming from behind, such as through a window, as looking into the bright light will cause the listener difficulty.

Use an app to translate from spoken word to written word, or use texting There are numerous apps free of cost that can be downloaded that allow you to speak into a smart phone and have your words show up on the screen for the person with hearing loss to read. The use of texting and email is also an efficient use to supplement com-munication.

In keeping with the Jewish tradition of L’dor Vador from Generation to Generation please share these tips about hearing loss awareness throughout our community and worldwide.

Written by Laurie Stern and Rose Golden

Interfaith Wedding Update On October 14, a letter was sent to our entire congregation reviewing the current practice of not permitting interfaith wedding ceremonies to be held in the Beth Emeth Sanctuary or Chapel. This issue was initiated by Rabbi Shpeen and discussed at meetings of the Board of Trustees. In addition, Rabbi Shpeen and President Michael Lurie illicited input from our congregation in anticipation of a Live Stream discussion on November 12. We re-ceived a tremendous response with over 70 letters, emails and calls shared with Mike and the Rabbi. Their live stream conversation addressed all the many comments and questions. If you were unable to watch the program that evening, it is archived on the Live Stream page of our website. Thereafter, at the December Board Meeting, it was voted unan-imously to permit interfaith wedding ceremonies to be held in the Temple.

Kathy Golderman

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CBE mails receipts to individuals who have made contributions in excess of $100. Notification cards are mailed to all recipients, and appear in the Bulletin shortly thereafter. This list includes new gifts received by December 4. Clergy Funds

Rabbi Scott Shpeen Discretionary Fund   Joanne Citrin in memory of Gordon Sanders, father of Garry Sanders Taketo Emoto in memory of Martha Nissen Emoto Ceil and Richard Friedenthal in memory of Shirley Pomerantz, mother of Bonnie Rosenberg Joan and Harvey Friedman in memory of Dr. Myron Gordon Seth, Leanne, Eli and Mickey Gordon in memory of Dr. Myron Gordon Anne Grace and Louis Patack Carol and David Grand in honor of the recent retirement of Dr. Stuart Rosenberg Carol and David Grand in memory of Shirley Pomerantz Genie and Gary Greenhouse in memory of Dr. Myron Gordon Sara Lee and Barry Larner in memory of Shirley Pomerantz Aaron, Jackie, David and Dalia Lieberman in appreciation of Rabbi Shpeen Joan and Richard Platt in memory of Shirley Pomerantz Valerie and Spike Solomon in memory of Shirley Pomerantz Lori and Steve Strong in honor of Panoply’s new headquarters; best of luck to Robin Ginac Amy and Arnold Weintraub

Rabbi Scott Shpeen Distinguished Artist Fund    The family of Dr. Robert C. Lieberman in honor of the special birthday of Nancy Roth The family of Dr. Robert C. Lieberman in memory of Shirley Pomerantz The family of Dr. Robert C. Lieberman in memory of Stephen Rosenblatt Melissa and Michael Lurie in memory of Shirley Pomerantz Steven Ostroff in memory of Sherrie Steinhart Nancy Yaffee and family in memory of Shirley Pomerantz

Helping our Synagogue

The Beautification Fund Robyn and Edward Marinstein in memory of Beverly Warheit Cantor Jodi Schechtman Music Fund in memory of Zoe Knapik Marcia and Michael Horelick Steven Ostroff Ellen Herkowitz Judaic Art Fund Gloria Herkowitz in honor of the special birthday of Selma Heflich (z”l) General Fund Cheryl and Bill Busino in memory of Dr. Myron Gordon Laurie Minsk and Jerry Dunietz in memory of Dr. Myron Gordon Marilyn Elson in honor of Simon Alpart becoming a bar mitzvah Eileen and Greg Lurie wishing Bonnie Rosenberg a speedy recovery Clayton Owens in memory of Alan Bloom

Heddy Pilpel in memory of Sandra Sossner Marie and Daivd Riker in memory of Estelle Fuld Anna and Charley Houghtaling in memory of Estelle Fuld Donna and Lee Rosen in honor of the bat mitzvah of Willa Winston Donna and Lee Rosen in memory of Donald Cohen Jo Lewis and Stan Schertzer in honor of the caring CBE community Laura Coakly and Ronald Vogel in honor of Aunt Rose and Uncle Billy General Fund in memory of Shirley Pomerantz Helena and Neil Davidoff Pat and Bob Friedman The Goldberg family Merrily and Frank Lewis Sherry Gold and Wendall Lorang Eileen and Greg Lurie Donna and Lee Rosen Julie and Andrew Safranko Beverly Vener The Parenting Center Fund in memory of Zoe Knapik Karen and Alan Ekstein Barri Ruth Pivar Thomas Nathan Cemetery Fund Diane, Bernard, Jennifer and Brian Kern in memory of Seymour Kern Diane, Bernard, Jennifer and Brian Kern in memory of Natalie Reichel Kern Betty and Bill Nathan Ruth Sherman Linn Fund Margie and Larry Kirsch The Smith Fund for Professional Development Shirley Feldman in honor of the birthdays of Doreen and Larry Smith Yom Kippur Appeal James Campbell Sheril Cohen-Dropkin and Robert Dropkin Sherry Chorost and Ronald Ginsburg in honor of the High Holy Day Live Stream Services Mildred Pickman Julie and Andrew Safranko

Donations

Helping our World David Goodman Reyut/ Caring Community Fund Robyn and Edward Marinstein in memory of Donald Cohen Robyn and Edward Marinstein in memory of Bruce Gottlieb Bonnie and Stuart Rosenberg in appreciation of the Reyut Committee Debbie and Rick Sokoler in memory of Dr. Myron Gordon Debbie and Rick Sokoler in memory of Zoe Knapik Social Action Tzedakah Fund Sorelle Brauth and family in appreciation of Rabbi Shpeen Jane Loeb in memory of Elaine Cohn Jane Loeb in appreciation of the Chanukah Bags deliverd by CBE Nan Miller in appreciation of Cantor Jodi Schechtman Sarah Tillman in appreciation of all those who worked hard to make all feel included during the holidays Nancy Yaffee in memory of Stephen Rosenblatt Social Action Tzedakah Fund in memory of Donald Cohen Diane and Jonathan Burman Lynn Cohen Lois and Jan Goorsky Nan Miller The Plattman family Roberta Sloane and Robert Schapire Lori Schneider Social Action Tzedakah Fund in memory of Shirley Pomerantz Susan and Ronald Backer Howard Berkun and Winnifred Chuckrow Karyn Yaffee and Howard Daley Margaret and Sam Feldman Phyllis and Stephen Hillinger Jane and David Kadish Anne and Michael Marmulstein Mara Miller Robin and Ted Sobol Susan and Reid Sperber Terry Strong Toby and Fred Wander

Social Action Tzedakah Fund in memory of Dr. Myron Gordon Naomi and Jay Bloomfield Sherry and Marvin Freedman Amy and Louis Gordon Robyn and Edward Marinstein Susan and Ed Mostel Susan and Reid Sperber Barbara and Ed Surowitz Graceann Wallingford Mitzvah Menorah Kelly and Rick Alfred

Julia Richards and David Barnet

Karen and Steven Fein Sherry and Marvin Freedman in memory of Phoebe Kerness

Susan and Thomas Hager

Jacqueline Kagan in memory of Avir Kagan, MD

Darlene Leder in appreciation of the support and kindness always provided by CBE

Judith and Stuart Madnick

Lawrence Marwill

Betty and Bill Nathan

Jane and Garry Sanders

Debbie and Rick Sokoler

Toby and Fred Wander in memory of Phoebe Kerness

Barbara Zaron

Helping Our Children The David Iselin Memorial CBEYG Fund Sara Lee and Barry Larner in honor of Lauren Iselin being named Chairwoman for Israel by the Jewish National Fund Landsberger - Feigenbaum Fund Natalie and Paul Feigenbaum

Fund for Jewish Education Abby and Rob Himmelstein in honor of the naming of Eleanor Abrams Nancy and Barry Simon in memory of Donald Cohen Nancy and Barry Simon in memory of Elaine Cohen Debbie and Rick Sokoler in memory of Donald Cohen The Weissman family in memory of Bruce Gottlieb Rosen Family Education Fund Barbara Manning in memory of Alex Faber Sisterhood YES Fund CBE Sisterhood in honor of the special birthday of: Dorice Brickman Phyllis O. Silverman Ruby Steinhardt Harriet Weintraub Robyn and Ed Marinstein in memory of Elaine Cohn Jan Rubenstein in memory of Elaine Cohn Jan Rubenstein in memory of Zoe Knapik The Larner Family Tree of Life Fund James Campbell Katherine Louise Kaplan in memory of Shirley Pomerantz Wendy and Daniel Keyser Barry and Sara Lee Larner in honor of the retirement of Dr. Stuart Rosenberg Sara Lee and Barry Larner in honor of their children, Carolyn and Bruce Ginsburg receiving the 2021 JCC Pillar Award Sara Lee and Barry Larner in honor of Jill Goodman and Artie Malkin reeiving the 2021 JCC Pillar Award Sara Lee and Barry Larner in honor of the special birthday of Nancy Roth Sara Lee and Barry Larner in memory of Eric Yaffee Robyn and Edward Marinstein in memory of Shirley Pomerantz

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VIRTUAL SILENT AUCTION

HOSTED BY: CONGREGATION BETH EMETH

April 11 to April 18 MORE DETAILS TO COME! ANY QUESTIONS? PLEASE CONTACT KATHY GOLDERMAN -- KGolderman@BethEmethAlbany.org ROBIN SOBOL – RSobol1@nycap.rr.com TAYLOR ALFRED – TVV0629@gmail.com SARA BONDER – SaraBonder@gmail.com

WE NEED

YOUR DONATIONS!

Please Help Us Obtain High Quality Items/Services:

PERSONAL TRAINER ▪MUSIC LESSONS ▪GIFT CARDS ▪THEMED GIFT BASKETS ▪AUTOGRAPHED ▪

MEMORABILIA NEW/GENTLY USED ▪

DESIGNER JEWERLY OR HANDBAG(S)

NEW ELECTRONICS ▪SPORTS TICKETS ▪CONCERT TICKETS ▪ISRAELI ITEMS (JEWELRY, ▪

KIDDUSH CUP, MENORAHS)

ART PIECES ▪BEAUTY SERVICES ▪PHOTOGRAPHY ▪

SERVICES LAWN CARE AND SNOW ▪

PLOW SERVICES OTHER ITEMS NOT ▪

LISTED ABOVE!

Monetary Donations Accepted Through March 15

Visit BethEmethAlbany.org to Donate

In the spirit of our Annual Garage Sale,

we are embarking on another opportunity to bring our CBE families together

for camaraderie as well as fundraising.

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Searching for Beth Emeth’s Senior Rabbi is one of the most important journeys we are undertaking. For this journey to be successful, we encourage our Beth Emeth community to participate and to be engaged in the process. The goal is not to “replace” Rabbi Shpeen because he continues to be, and will always be in our hearts, our beloved and inspirational Rabbi. Rather, we aspire to serve our congregation by identifying new rabbinic leadership that moves Beth Emeth from “strength to strength” to assure our congregation’s well-being for years and for generations to come.

Rabbinic Search

Winter 2020/2021 RSC is formed. Conversations about roles, responsibilities, and CCAR guidelines Winter 2021

Spring 2021 Zoom Focus Groups and Surveys

Focus Groups 90 minutes - limited to 15 participants per group. Information gathered from the focus groups will guide the RSC in their decision and be shared with the Senior Rabbi finalist as part of orientation to the Beth Emeth community. Register online

Survey Congregants are invited to participate in both a focus group and complete a survey. The Survey will be available at BethEmethAlbany.org or upon request by mail in March.

Spring 2021 CCAR to post CBE Senior Rabbi position June/July 2021

CCAR forwards potential candidates to CBE. RSC reviews applicants

Fall 2021 Candidates participate in virtual interviews

Winter 2022 Interviews with top candidates

Spring 2022 CBE President makes candidate offer after RSC recommendation and Board approval July 2022

New Rabbi begins at CBE, overlapping with Rabbi Shpeen for one year

July 2023 Rabbi Shpeen becomes Emeritus and new Rabbi assumes title of Senior Rabbi

The Rabbinic Search Committee (RSC) Robyn Marinstein, First Vice President, co-chair RMarinstein@gmail.com Garry Sanders, Past President, co-chair GarrettRSanders@gmail.com Committee members are: Gayle Abrams, Craig Alfred, Liz Albright, Michael Bigley, Jennifer Colman, Dan Cotton, Dan Dembling, Cheryl Gelder-Kogan, Steve Ostroff, Donna Rosen and Steven Shrager Rabbi Steve Kaye, Consultant

Our goal is to keep our CBE family informed and included as we progress. Please find updates at BethEmethAlbany.org (click on the Rabbinic Search link at the top of the page) or here in The Bulletin. We value your input. Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR)

Under CCAR guidelines, CBE needs to formally apply to the CCAR for placement. If you wish to learn more about the CCAR placement process that Beth Emeth will be following, visit: ccarnet.org/placement-and-transition/placement/

Tuesday 2/2, 7 pm Thursday 2/4, 7 pm Monday 2/15, 2 pm Monday 2/15, 7 pm Tuesday 2/16, 10 am

Wednesday 2/17,10 am Wednesday 2/17, 7 pm Friday 2/19, noon Sunday 2/21, 1 pm Monday 2/ 22, 7 pm

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Perpetual Memorials Establishing a Perpetual Memorial ensures that Kaddish will always be recited for your loved ones. Each year the name is added to the Kaddish list and a plaque is hung in the Chapel or Sanctuary. Notices are sent to remind you of the upcoming Yahrzeit and the name of your loved one is listed in the Bulletin. Inquire with Susan if you would like more information at SDebronsky@BethEmethAlbany.org. The family of Estelle Halpern has established a Perpetual Memorial in her memory

The family of Kyra M. Swartz has established a Perpetual Memorial in her memory

The family of Jacqueline K. Swartz has established a Perpetual Memorial in her memory

Minna H. Bach Louis Baere Mary Gunst Barnet Gertrude R. Bookstein Marie D. Caplan Louis Caplan Frances Lubin Cohen Murray Dorkin Ida Lillian Faber Lois Adele Facher Samuel Farfield Reba H. Feldman Dan Fishell Stanley Freedgood Myron (Mike) Greenberg Julius Illch Philip Itzkow Anna Friedlander Jackson Arnold M. Kaplan Natalie Reichel Kern Dr. Edwin A. Locke

Frank S. Lyons Henry Mann Julius Miller Lewis Muhlfelder Stanley Nevett Muriel Parets Irving Polk John Ritz Mollie Bookstein Rose Herman Rosenbaum Max Rosenn Hildred T. Rosenstock Bernice F. Rosenstock Benjamin Roth Eileen R. Shields Harry W. Sims David Sonnenfeld Theodore Sonnenfeld Fannie Tarsey Harry J. Taube Jack Wilker

Shabbat of February 26-27

Kaddish will be recited for those beloved departed whose names are perpetuated in Permanent Memorials established by their families. We invite your inquiries about this thoughtful way of remembrance.

If you wish to have a name included on our Shabbat Kaddish list or have a question about a Kaddish name being recited, please call Susan at 518.436.9761 x224 (please do not leave a name for the Yahrzeit list on e-mail or voice mail). When phoning in a name, please do so by the Thursday of the week it is to be read.

Yahrzeits

Shabbat of February 5-6Aaron D. Anker Gilbert Baker Manuel Chartoff Michael R. Cohen Dr. Donald W. Cohen Roy Cohen Sarah Mendel Cohn Max Cohn Anne Coplon Richard M. Englander Katherine Stein Fenster Melville Fisher Rose Forman Merwyn Frisch Dorothy Teichner Frommer Rosetta B. Fuld Dr. A. Milton Green Hon. Richard Allen Hanft Celia Illch Ralph D. Insel Milton F. Levison, 3rd Dina Wolfsheimer Mann Louis Miller Joseph T. Miller Harriet I. Nathan

Bessie Newell Charles J. Poskanzer Sheila G. Richardson Ruth Rosenblum Blanche Goldowsky Rosenholtz Nathan Rudof Jerome Irwin Ruzow Miriam Schlesinger Louis Silberman Reuben Sills Estelle Lenore Sokol Sharon Seiden Stein Beatrice Steinberg Rachel H. Stern Myron S. Strasser, Jr. Moritz-Rosa Strauss Claire A. Sutor Grace K. Swartz Sophie Swartz Benjamin H. Weinberg Alan K. Wennar Morris Yaffee Hannah Manel Zolzensky Rhoda Zuckerman

Dora Ettelson Aronowitz Joyce Avrach Richard Basch Charles N. Berinstein Peter Blacker August J. Bolz Sender Borlawsky Florence Livingston Marx Brody Herman Bronstein Frederick S. deBeer, Jr. Benjamin Louis Dubb Anthony Rosenstock Fischer Amy C. Friend Paula Goldslager Harold H. Goodman Adele L. Haven Belle Schwarz Heiser Marcus Hirschfeld Lena Hyman Esther Bookheim Isenbergh Dr. Irving S. Kaskel

Barbara Coill Kellert Seymour Kern Rose Kolp Rebecca Newman Levison Joseph H. Mann Isidore Muhlfelder Helen Bookheim Oppenheim Harry A. Raab Rosalind Robinson Leon Rosenberg Sharon I. Siegal Yetta Simon Sunny Bauer Solomon Miriam “Mimi” Sommers Harry Summer Jeanette Egers Summer Morton H. Swartz Michael H. Urbach Leo J. Wagner Samuel Waldman

Shabbat of February 19-20

Shabbat of February 12-13Cordelia Spear Alexander Fran Pennie Armm Nannene Fellman Bass Bess Marks Bloch Robert Blum George Boochever Linda Henson Bookstein Mollie Boorstein Selma Hotchkiss Boxer Henry L. Braun Adelaide Marx Einhorn Bernhard Fein Frank Feldman Marilyn Solomon Finkle Josephine Fine Freedman Leonora Goldberg Joseph Goodman II Esther E. Gould Solomon Abraham Heiser Isaac Honigsbaum Amson Illch Leo Katzman Dr. Franklin L. Kessler

Mark Alexander Larner Robert M. Levine David London Harry Marks Minna Barnet Nathan Morton Ratner Satie Swartz Reinhart Solomon Henry Schlesinger Harry Schuster Edward Ernst Schwager Evelyn Kahn Segel Jennie Solomon Suellen Stuart Edward Taube Didier O. Thomas Isidor Thorn Anna Tutshen Ruth Kopp Urbach Harry E. Warsh Robert Weinbloom Louis Wilder Rene Zamos Zoota

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Shabbat of January 1-2 in memory of Judy and Stuart Madnick and family Harriet R. Koblintz Ruth F. Mendel and family Isser Zolzensky

Shabbat of January 15-16 in memory of Betty and Bill Nathan Minnie Shoor Nathan

Shabbat of January 22-23 in memory of Pat and Bob Friedman Celia M. Schutzman Elizabeth Godfried Dr. William S. Godfried Nancy and Dr. Jeffrey Lozman Teddy Lozman

Shabbat of January 29-30 in memory of The Mendel family Addie Flack Mendel

Shabbat of February 5-6 in memory of The family of Roy Cohen Roy Cohen Susan and Brian Debronsky Jerome Irwin Ruzow Gabrielle and William Englander Richard M. Englander Alice Firsty and family Melville Fisher Cynthia Freedman, the Marinstein family and the Benoit family Dorothy Teichner Frommer Mark Kohn Gilbert Baker Ruth F. Mendel and family Hannah Manel Zolzensky The Ruslander family Blanche Goldowsky Rosenholtz Martha and Alan Slowe Rhoda Esther Zuckerman Gail, Hal, Rebekah and Drue Sokol Estelle Lenore Sokol Marion, Mickey, Shana and Evan Strasser Myron S. Strasser, Jr. Jeffrey Wennar Alan K. Wennar The Marmulstein and Yaffee families Ruth Rosenblum Nancy Yaffee Morris Yaffee

This fund enhances our synagogue campus and bima with flowers. Listed are the donations received by January 15. Donations received after, will be listed in the March Bulletin. You are able to place donations on our website under “Beautification Fund.” Be sure to list your name(s) and your loved one(s) exactly as you wish them to appear in the Bulletin.

Shabbat of February 12-13 in memory of Sherry and Steven Einhorn and family Adelaide Marx Einhorn Karen and Steven Fein Bernhard Fein Donna and Andrew Goldslager Paula Goldslager Lynn Shaw and Paul Katzman Leo Katzman Lucy Larner and family Mark Alexander Larner Jane and Mark Levine Robert M. Levine Nancie and Ken Segel Evelyn K. Segel Bruce Stuart Suellen Stuart Susan Felstiner Thomas Didier O. Thomas The family of Robert Weinbloom Robert Weinbloom Harriet Wilder Wicks Louis Wilder Merna Zinnershine and family David London

Shabbat of February 19-20 in memory of Ronald E. Berinstein Charles N. Berinstein Phyllis and Jeffrey Sperry Mark and Bary Ann Borlawsky Sender Borlawsky Eileen Fluster and family Peter Blacker Eunice Golderman Richard Basch Helene and Ed Haven Adele L. Haven Adele Pickar Harold H. Goodman Donna, Lee, David and Jamie Rosen Joyce Avrach Carole S. Rosenblum Sunny Bauer Solomon Beth and Andrew Swartz Morton H. Swartz The Urbach family Michael H. Urbach

Shabbat of February 26-27 in memory of Gytelle Bloom Ida Lillian Faber Joyce Bookstein Gertrude R. Bookstein Eleanor Breinan Murray Dorkin The Friedlander family Anna Friedlander Jackson Dorry Kotzin Harry W. Sims Jacalyn Itzkow and Carl Ruppert Philip Itzkow Kathie Kaplan and family Arnold M. Kaplan Miriam Kolker Philip Itzkow

Beautification

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Pioneer Plaza652 Albany Shaker Road

Albany NY 12211

E: Info@pbins.comP: 518-730-3200F: 518-730-3199

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A L I S O N J O H N S O N , M B A

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WE WILL BRING TO YOU!

CLERGY Scott L. Shpeen Senior Rabbi Sharon Kohn Interim Cantor Alexandra Stein Rabbinic Intern

STAFF Kathy Golderman Shara L. Siegfeld Deborah Sokoler

OFFICERS Michael Lurie Robyn Marinstein Melissa Greenberg Robin Sobol Robert Kivort

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

PAST PRESIDENTS

President 1st Vice President 2nd Vice President Treasurer Secretary

Executive Director Director of Education Programming Director

Taylor Alfred Moshe Bonder Jack Burman CBEYG President Erik Cooley Barry Z. Davis Brotherhood President Barry Feinman Carolyn Ginsburg Rose Golden Alison Johnson

Karen Kaufman-White Kerryn Kent Meredith Ray-LaBatt Sisterhood President Steve Lobel James Milstein Abby Nash Debbie Ratner Jessica Richer Joe Schwartz Steven Shrager

100 Academy Road Albany, NY 12208

Phone: 518.436.9761

The Einhorn Center for Jewish Education Phone: 518.432.1392

BethEmethAlbany.org

General Inquiries: info@BethEmethAlbany.org

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Connect Belong Engage

Founders’ Day Shabbat

Zoom via Live Stream Friday, March 26

Lunch & Learn

with Cantor Kohn

Wednesdays March 10, 17, 24

Andrew Safranko Lee Rosen Lauren Iselin Jill S. Goodman Garry Sanders Jan Reiss-Weitzman Arthur J. Siegel Cathy Kimmel

Ilene S. Sykes Laurence G. Barnet Steven L. Einhorn Fred B. Wander Charles M. Stern Marvin A. Freedman Alan V. Iselin