March 2016 - Temple Beth El

MEMBER OF THE
REFORM MOVEMENT
In this issue
MITZVAH DAY 2016:
SUNDAY MARCH 13TH
9:30am-12:30Pm
Administration………………11
Advertising………………21-23
Anniversary/Birthday….......20
Calendar………………...……18
Caring and Sharing….……..15
Contributions…….…….... ...26
Mitzvah day is a long standing tradition for Temple Beth El. It is a day that we
all come together, ages 3-103, to stand side by side and perform mitzvot.
King David Society….……...9
Learning Tree……………….15
Library/Book Club …….......13
No matter what our differences, on this day, we join as a family and perform
mitzvot. We will spruce up the Temple, make lunches for the homeless, cards for
the troops, gifts for the Children’s Hospital and much more. Please watch your
e-mails for sign ups.
As you set up your March calendar for 2016, the social action committee encourages you to reserve Sunday, March 13, for your participation in Mitzvah Day.
Laurie Morris, Mitzvah Day chairperson (laurie2287@gmail.com)
Membership………….…....…6
Mens Club……………….11-12
President’s Message…….....3
Public Relations……………...7
Purim Celebration……...…..17
Rabbi Ourach………………...2
Rabbi Luna………….……......8
Religious School…..…..….4-5
Ritual…………………………...6
IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE THE TEMPLE E-MAILS PLEASE e-mail
Inna Vasser SO WE CAN MAKE SURE YOU ARE
INCLUDED: inna@templebethel.com. We send out weekly updates.
Second Night Seder…….....14
Shiva Committee………...…19
Sisterhood………………..….10
Temple Directory…………...27
The entire contents of this newsletter and additional
photos are available on our website:
www.TempleBethEl.com
TBE Cemetery…………….…19
TBE Gift Gallery…….………28
Yahrzeits…………………24-25
Youth Group………..……….13
RABBI’S MESSAGE
During March we celebrate one of the most fun-filled Jewish holidays of the
year. Purim and its story have delighted the Jewish mind and heart for more than
2000 years. The book of Esther was one of the last chosen to be included in our Bible. There was concern that God was not mentioned in the narrative. Its popularity
with the masses may have forced its inclusion. Also, Esther’s message of right over
might promoted feelings of hope and commitment.
As Jews living in a free country, we can benefit from taking the time and
making the effort to really celebrate Purim. As we attend carnivals and wear costumes, we can use these moments to strengthen Jewish identity for ourselves and for our children. As we read
the Megillah, we have the opportunity to really listen to the story and remember its message.
The Megillah teaches us about choices. Do we step up like Mordecai and ultimately accept responsibility like Esther? How much prodding do we need? The Megillah teaches us that hiding is not an acceptable response.
Confronting our fears in a world that challenges us every day is not an easy task. As American Jews today, we
are frequently more fearful than we have been in recent decades. There is more anti-Semitism in the world today. People do question whether they should travel to certain destinations. Our brothers and sisters in Israel all
too often are faced with threats from their neighbors. Children and adults sometimes have less than a minute to
reach a bomb shelter, and yet they face Haman and say “we will survive” and “we will prevail.”
In March of 2016, the Hamans of the world are numerous and real, and they are not just there for the
Jewish people. We are at times still at the top of their lists, but as we saw in France, it is not just our people
who are under attack. Sadly, and far too often today, it is not just our lives that are threatened but also our way
of life. The Hamans of today would eliminate us if they could, but their goals are more far-reaching and extend
well beyond the Jewish people. The rights and freedoms of Jews, of Americans, of Frenchmen and of other
people around the world are constantly being challenged.
It is precisely because of these challenges that we must know who we are and what we believe. Our
faith demands that we partner with God. Our tradition requires us to engage in repairing the world. We must not
forget to teach our children these requirements on a regular basis. On more than one occasion, Western civilization has not been kind to our people. What we value in American life frequently makes us happy, but for many
of us today, there is dissatisfaction with the values and needs that our society often ignores. The Torah teaches
that those who are neediest are not to be ignored. The Talmud teaches that when we save the life of a single individual, we save an entire world. Purim is a time to reinforce these values and to reteach these lessons.
We know the frightening results of what happpens if Haman is not confronted. We must always be present to help our people when and wherever they are in need. And as a people, we must always be ready to stand
with others who now face challenges like the ones we have faced throughout our history. We will not turn
aside. We will not look the other way. We will continue to join with others who oppose tyranny and oppression.
This Purim and in the days ahead which will most certainly challenge us, let us remember our history, and
whenever necessary, let us rise us up like Esther and Mordecai. Let us always remember the words of Hillel: If
I am not for myself, who will be for me? If I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?
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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
by Russ Bogen
A Look Behind, a Look Ahead
Just past the midpoint of this challenging transitional year for TBE I revisit the intention we envision for Temple Beth El. We conceive our synagogue to be a sacred
community of people whose lives are enriched with meaning, purpose, connectedness, and a relationship with God through prayer, study, acts of social justice, healing, and loving-kindness.
Our goal is to deepen a covenantal bond between each individual member and the spiritual community, to
Judaism, and to God.
How are we motivated to embrace the changes we are going through as a congregation? Each in our own
way contributes to the overall effect.
There are members who accept the “Challenge” to improve and excel. Some use their “Creativity” to get
involved and to involve others, whether it is event planning or creating a warm and welcoming ambiance.
“Fun” and “Excitement” are the keys that open the doors to synagogue life for certain citizens of TBE.
“Family” induces many to participate and write their own story through the cycles of life. “Learning” and
“Problem Solving” stimulate others to expand their horizons and to get things done. A sense of
“Ownership” activates those who want to both preserve and improve our family community. “Service” and
“Social Responsibility” inspire members who always represent a good portion of the community.
“Teamwork” induces success for those who take up any of the variety of opportunities for association at
TBE.
“Recognition” ties it all together. My gratitude is spread widely and thickly (like honey) onto everyone in
our TBE community who participate at every level. We are in this together.
This transitional year has shown us how quickly that which is New becomes Traditional. The blending of
new ideas and practices from members who have had synagogue experiences elsewhere reminds us that Judaism is an adaptive religion and culture. Tradition is honored and change embraced. We are looking forward with enthusiastic anticipation for our incoming permanent Rabbi Luna to galvanize and invigorate
TBE at an even higher level than we enjoy today.
Russell Bogen
"Spring - An experience in immortality.”
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Henry D. Thoreau
by Dale Cohen, Religious School Director
Dear Parents of the Religious School:
I want to wish a happy month of March to all of our Religious School families.
I am reflecting back to last month when we had our wonderful PJ Library program at
Temple Judea hosted by Leni Sack and Liz Singer. We are living in such a small
Jewish Community; how nice it is to be able to get together and work collaboratively
while celebrating the holiday of Tu B’shevat. Our next PJ Library program
(Passover) will be held here at Temple Beth EL on April 10th as we continue to
work and plan with Leni and Liz. All of us here at Temple Beth EL Religious School have thoroughly
enjoyed this process!
Sunday, March 13, 2016 we will be having Mitzvah Day her e at Temple Beth El at 9:30 AM.
This is always a spectacular day of fulfilling mitzvot. As always the Religious School will be assisting
in a wide array of projects. Please look for “sign-up genius” for donating opportunities
Saturday, March 19, 2016, we will have J unior Congr egation Ser vices fr om 9:00 – 10:15 AM.
This is a wonderful way for our pre-Bar/Bat Mitzvah students to become familiar with the Saturday
morning liturgy.
Sunday, March 20, 2016, we will have a ver y special pr e-Purim Pancake Breakfast. We will be designing our favorite Purim characters on pancakes (during Religious School hours) We will be eating,
singing Purim songs with Cantor Victor, and creating a special art project with our own Morah Shirley.
We will also be enjoying delicious hamantaschen as well!
Wednesday March 30, 2016 Kar en Kagan, and I will be heading to Washington, D.C. to lead our
9th and 10th grade Confirmation students for a five day community Service Trip through the Amizade
World organization. We will be taking 11 students, and Mary Gatof has graciously offered to be a
chaperone. I will be reporting next month on all of the details.
Please note: Ther e will not be Religious School on Sunday, Mar ch 27th or on Wednesday, March
30th and on Sunday, April 3rd due to the Lee County “Spring Break.”
B’Ezrat Hashem,
Dale M. Cohen, M.A., ED, R.J.E.
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Religious Education Director
DALE COHEN: RELFECTIONS ON HER SHABBAT HONOR, Feb 22nd,
18 YEARS OF SERVICE AT TEMPLE BETH EL
Shabbat Shalom, and thank you so much for this most wonderful honor of serving as the Religious School Director of Temple Beth El for the past 18 years. I am so humbled by this honor. Firs, (and in no particular order of importance) I would like to thank the TBE Board of Trustees for sponsoring this evening’s Oneg. Todah Rabah for all of
the love, support and commitment to the following people: Vanessa Sax, V.P. Of Education, Karen Kagan (a.K.A.
sidekick to the fearless leader), Karen Weiss, Berny and Phyllis Aronson, Russ Bogen, Rabbi Ourach, Cantor Victor,and
of course my incredible teaching staff and all of the students of Temple Beth El Religious School.
If I had to sum up my 18 years here at Temple Beth El in one word; I would say endurance. For all of you “die
hards” out there, Betty, Karen Weiss, Robin Jacobs, Barbara Gribin and so many others, we support and love the institution of Temple Beth El. We have lived through many trials and tribulations, but have persevered through them all. This
is our spiritual home. We have experienced many life cycle events together and treasure many memories here. Through
the years, we have watched congregants come and go, but we have remained here for the “long haul.” Any relationship,
whether it be with people, animals, or an institution will always have its ups and downs. The key to sucess is consistency and loyalty. The perpetuation of Judaism depends on us. The longevity of our commitment and love that we have for
our faith will take us well into the next millennium.
Allow me to say, that most of my staff have been teaching here for well over 10 years. We are like a big family
and our main goal is to imbue our students with the best possible Jewish education, and believe me, we do. I am eternally grateful for our Religious School staff. Their continued loyalty and commitments to our students is incomparable.
There really is nothing better than the “team of employees” that I am blessed to work with on a daily basis:
Rabbi Ourach, Cantor Victor, Inna Vasser, Karen Kagan, Lydia Rivera, Fabian Ruiz and Jesyca Virnig. We are not just
co-workers, but great friends who respect each others’ opinions and are always “bouncing
ideas off of each other for the betterment of the Temple.
On a personal note, my family is my everything. My daughter Lanie was named here and she celebrated her Bat
Mitzvah here as well. I trained her for her Bat Mitzvah! Good Times! Lanie, you have grown up here, and you will be
spending a month of your summer in the CIT training program at 6 Points Sports Academy (a URJ camp) in Greensboro, North Carolina Mazel Tov. And to My loving husband Nir, you are my rock, and my best friend. To Bear and Lily,
my favorite canines – (but if you really know me , I do love all animals) if you were allowed in here; you would be
here, but we understand! To my parents, who couldn’t be here – I love you more than words could ever say. Thank you
for putting me on the path of Jewish Education.
In conclusion, and as a part of our Prayerbook liturgy, there is a part of the V’ahavta Prayer that reads: V’sheenantaam L’vanecha, which translates to: “you shall diligently teach them to your children. Jewish Education is not
merely an option, but a commandment. For me, it is truly “a labor of love.” If we do not invest in the future of Jewish
Education, which are our children, then where is the future for Judaism? One place I know that the future will lie will be
here at Temple Beth El.
Kayn Y’hee Ratzon
“So May it be G-d’s Will” Amen
You have touched the lives of over 200 Children and their families.
CONGRATULATIONS DALE
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Our sincere Mazel Tovs go out to Jensen Weisenger; Amber Crutchfield, William Goldman and Jarred
Olitsky and their respective families for their dedication and learning to reach that special milestone.
At this time, Temple has 5 more Bar/Bat Mitzvot between now and the end of the year; it would be a
Mitzvah for anyone from our congregation to attend a Bar/Bat Mitzvah service on any Saturday morning.
The families would truly appreciate the support of the congregation. Check the monthly calendar in your
newsletter for dates.
Challah is still being distributed during the Hamotzi by Phyllis and her young Temple members on Friday
evenings. This continues our efforts to bring more young people into various activities, where they are
always welcome to light Shabbas candles, read from the Siddur, open the Ark, dress and undress the Torah, etc.
We are looking forward to Rabbi Luna’s visit to Ft Myers and Temple Beth
El on April 9th & 10th and holding a beautiful Havdallah service on Saturday
night, with an Oneg afterwards.
The Ritual Committee – sponsored Oneg on Feb. 19th.
We have heard from several people who have arrived late for Friday evening
services and found the doors locked. Services start at 7:30 pm and the doors
lock automatically at 8:00 pm. For the security of our worshippers in the
Sanctuary.
See you all on Friday nights and ”talk” to you next month!
MEMBERSHIP
by Jeff Avon, VP of Membership
The Super Bowl wasn't the only event on
Sun 2/7. There was indeed a SUPER
lunch that day for new congregants who
joined Temple Beth El in 2015. The
lunch was hosted at the beautiful home
of Karen & Michael Weiss. New TBE
congregants mingled with Rabbi Bob and
Linda Ourach, Cantor Victor and Shirley Geigner, Dale Cohen,
our Religious School Director, the membership committee and
board members. The variety of home cooked food from entrees to
desserts was delicious and proved once again TBE has many top
chefs. The winning team that day was TBE!
The membership committee is always looking for new ways to improve the social experience of TBE congregants.
Your comments, suggestions and committee membership are always welcome. Please contact me
at jeffavon50@gmail.com or my cell 239-834-7106.
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Temple Beth El in The News
Karen Weiss, VP of Public Relations
I have accepted the position of PR chairman on the TBE board. Several changes will take place
and it will be a work in progress. I am requesting that all PR articles, fliers, etc be emailed to me:
karenwTBE@gmail.com. Please do not ask the office staff to put the info into the email blasts, website,
or newsletter. They will only forward the info to me which could possibly delay the information in
reaching the appropriate source. All correspondence is to be in email form to me. This process is in an
attempt to streamline, and to ensure the information is timely and accurate. The website is a work in
progress and I ask for your patience and understanding. My primary goal is to keep the information on
the website accurate and up to date but I can only do that if I receive the information this way.
I will do my best to get all the information emailed to me into the newsletter and website. Be advised
that newsletter articles are proofed ( not by me) and from time to time there may be changes which is
the editors choice. Information for the Newsletter must be emailed to me by the 7th for the following
months issue and by the 3rd for L'chayim.
Email blasts will be sent on Friday and will contain only the information for the next week. Save the
date email blasts will be sent out on Monday’s. Again thank you and I look forward to this new endeavor.
Temple Beth El and the Synagogues360 Project
In 1994, the Temple Beth El family moved into its beautiful new home, designed with love by one of its own members,
Bruce Gora. Through his distinctive design, Bruce translated the warmth and spirituality of our congregation into
bricks and plaster and stained glass.
Late last year, Louis Davidson, photographer for Synagogues 360, recognized the rare beauty of our building and asked
to capture it for the Synagogues360 project. As described on their website:
“Synagogues360 brings you a unique visual and historical experience of synagogues across North America, Europe and
Asia from small, remote villages to cosmopolitan cities.
Each is an expression of the culture, artistic values and architectural technology of its era.
This website preserves these unique historical legacies and presents them in 360 degree panoramic, interactive photos.”
Our temple is included in this wonderful project because of it's national recognition as a unique and important example
of synagogue architecture.
Go to Synagogues360.org to see the amazing photos of our building. Linger there to marvel at the other examples of
our rich architectural heritage and fully appreciate the importance of Temple Beth El, here in Fort Myers, Florida, being
included in such a prestigious group of synagogues.
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WELCOME RABBI NICOLE LUNA
LOOKING FORWARD TO
SEEING ALL OF YOU IN
FORT MYERS
APRIL 9-10
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TEMPLE BETH EL ARTISTS SEND THEIR WORK TO ISRAEL
Since September, eight local Jewish artists have been working on a collaborative art project with Israeli artists coordinated by our local Jewish Federation. Five of the artists are members of Temple Beth El.
Each artist was paired with an Israeli artist from the Hadera-Eiron region and have been communicating through
social media. The project is called “Art Beyond Boundaries.” (There is a Facebook page by the same name which
shows the artworks that have been created by all the artists in the United States and Israel.)
In total there are fifty-two, or twenty-six pairs, of artists involved with the exhibition. All artists were required to
take a course about Psalms and each pair chose a psalm to illustrate. The show will open in Israel in early April and
the complete exhibition will be coming to Fort Myers, the Alliance for the Arts, March 2017.
Gale Shamblott
Carolyn Gora
Elise Sewall
Juli Bobman
Shirley Litman
KING DAVID SOCIETY
There are many creative ways you can choose to support Temple Beth El; ways which will benefit our temple, you and your
loved ones…all at the same time. These acts of giving are
called “planned gifts”.
You can:
* Make a gift that costs nothing during your lifetime.
* Give stock and realize large tax savings for you.
* Receive income for life in return for your gift.
* Donate your house, continue to live there and get a tax break, all at the same time.
Start a conversation with us about planned giving. Call Doug Gribin at 239-561-2900 or Linda Sweet
linsweet8@gmail.com OR go to www.TempleBethEl.com and download the form
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SISTERHOOD
by Bernice Turner, Sisterhood President
"Alone we can do so little, together we
can do so much." --Helen Keller
I would like to share some exciting
news with you. Through the efforts of
many organizations and individuals
the Israeli Cabinet has finally decided
to create a permanent pluralistic prayer
space at the Kotel in Jerusalem. This
proves there is power in working together towards a common goal.
The great taste of wonderful strudel is
still on my palate. I want to thank Sylvia Simko for sharing her fantastic
strudel recipe with our members. February’s meeting was delicious. The
Board of Directors have been working
hard to revise our bylaws. The changes
and additions were discussed at our
February meeting. If you wish to review the new bylaws
a copy is available in
the Dubin
Center. The bylaws
will be voted upon at
the March Meeting.
Upcoming Events: (PLEASE GO TO WWW.TEMPLEBETHEL.COM, SISTERHOOD FOR DETAILS)
March 13th is Mitzvah Day. Sister hood will be collecting clothing for “Dr ess for Success” a non-profit organization that strives to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional
attire and to develop the tools to thrive in work and life. Donations of clothing (on hangers only) are gratefully appreciated. We will also be collecting household items and donations to help our local veterans.
March 17th is our evening dinner meeting. After our gener al meeting you will be enter tained with Broadway
songs by the team of R&B. You will also have the opportunity to be part of the show. Reservations are a must for this
meeting.
April 3 Sisterhood Quarter Auction 1pm-4pm. Help us raise money to sponsor a confirmation student for their Mission trip at the culmination of their studies.
Maj Jongg Tournament: second Wednesday of the month. If you need infor mation r egar ding anything r elated
to Sisterhood or you would like to help at an event contact me at btcansing@hotmail.com.
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ADMINISTRATION
by Robin Jacobs & Barbara Gribin
VP ‘s of administration
We have now completed 2 months as VP of administration. To say that
Temple Beth El is a ‘happening place’ would be an understatement!! There is
something going on all the time, and the office staff is ready and willing to meet
the daily challenges with a smile and great attitude! Let them know that you appreciate the job that they do.
You asked, and we listened. We recently changed the phone answering system to have a ‘live person’ greet you when you call. Please understand that since
we only have 3 telephone lines coming into the synagogue, there will still be some times that the voice
mail may come on. Staff meetings Holidays, Extreme Weather Conditions, and After Hours are some of
the instances that you will reach the voice message instead of a live person. Your understanding will be
much appreciated.
For your safety, the front door automatically locks at 8 pm on Shabbat. We ar e wor king at finding
volunteers to stay in lobby from 8:00pm-8:30pm to
let in any latecomers to services. We are also in the
process of adding additional security to the office,
kitchen, religious and preschool in the way of “panic
buttons” to be used in extreme circumstances of fear
of safety issues. During the turbulent times that we
live in, we feel that adding an extra layer of protection is necessary.
Shalom, Robin Jacobs and Barbara Gribin
MENS CLUB
by Richard Chaet, Men’s Club President
PLEASE SEE OUR AD ON THE NEXT PAGE FOR OUR MARCH 6TH FUNDRAISER. CALL
QUICKLY WE ARE ALMOST SOLD OUT
The Men's Club sends a warm welcome to our snow birds and new members. We hope you find that the
weather that lives up to your expectation. The only thing we can guarantee you is that you will not have to
bring a shovel.
As always, the Men's Club of Temple Beth El has some very exciting events planned for this winter.
The first is the Super Bowl tailgating party at the Temple, which will be over before this article is printed. If
you came, I know you will have enjoyed it, and if you missed it we will have another one next year.
Some of the other things that are being planned are as follows: our every other month pool
shooting night, complete with pizza and drinks. We are planning pistol training and indoor range target shooting at one of the
local firing ranges. For the car enthusiasts, we will have a huge car show at Temple Beth El this summer. Watch for Dates.
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TBE LIBRARY AND BOOK CLUB
by Barbara Wasserman Vinson
March Book of the Month: The Zookeeper’s Wife by Diane Ackerman will be reviewed at the March 3rd Book Club Meeting. Ackerman writes that after their zoo was
bombed, Polish zookeepers Jan and Antonina Zabinski managed to save over three
hundred people from the Nazis by hiding refugees in the empty animal cages. With
animal names for these “guests,” and human names for the animals, it’s no wonder
that the zoo’s code name became “The House Under a Crazy Star.” Best-selling naturalist and acclaimed storyteller Diane Ackerman combines extensive research and an
exuberant writing style to re-create this fascinating, true-life story―sharing Antonina’s
life as “the zookeeper’s wife,” while examining the disturbing obsessions at the core of Nazism. Winner of the
2008 Orion Award. 8 pages of illustrations.
Members and Donations Welcome
To join the Library Committee contact Barbara Vinson at barbarawvinson@yahoo.com
To join the Machers & Mavens book club we meet the 1st Wednesday of every month at
2:00pm.
To donate to the Library Fund designate “Library Fund” on your check, made out to Temple
Beth El.
We Can Use Children and juvenile books of Jewish content.
JR YOUTH GROUP Michelle Schoenfeld
& Nadine Goodman co-leaders
Jr Youth Group for all Jewish Middle Schoolers, hosted at Temple Beth El
Co-Leaders, Nadine Goodman & Michelle Schoenfeld
March Newsletter
Shalom friends. Do you know that this year is like a Jewish leap year? Because our calendar follows the cycle of the moon, sometimes it works out that we need an extra month, just as the solar
calendar sometimes needs to add a day, February 29. This year, is such a year for us. And
when the Jewish calendar needs to add a month, it is this month of Adar we add. Adar is the
month of happiness, when the flowers start to bloom and the things we have been aspiring for in
our lives come to fruition. There is much to celebrate and be joyful about in Adar.
Last month, we came together with Temple Judea for a lovely evening of music with a capella music sensation group "Listen Up". Next month on April 16, Jr Youth Group will share a lock-in at
Temple Judea. Being together as one community of Jewish students in SWFL brings much nachas to our hearts. Thank you for sharing your heart and friendship as one Jewish community.
You all make us so proud. Much love, your happy co-leaders, Michelle & Nadine
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SECOND NIGHT TEMPLE BETH EL SEDER
Open to Family and friends
Seating is limited to the first 125 reservations paid in advance.
Please mail your reservation to
Temple Beth El, 16225 Winkler Road, Ft. Myers, Fl 33908.
(239)433-0018
***********************************************************
Name:__________________________________ Phone:_____________
Adult member: $ 30.00 # __________ Adult Non-Member: $ 55.00 #______
College Students: $ 15.00 (w/id) #_____Children 6-12: $ 20.00 #_________
Children under 5 : Free
TOTAL DUE $______________
Method of Payment:
____Check _____Credit Card on file
OR ______ Credit Card info on form
Credit Card # ____________________________Exp date:______ CRV______
I would like to be seated with: (tables of 8-10)________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
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The Learning Tree
by Jesyca Virnig, Director
Calling all Bubbes and Zaydes!
You have always known that children's sweet little faces and belly laughs were
medicine for your soul. Did you also know that recent research indicates time
spent with the little ones may improve your memory and brain function?
The benefits go both ways--no one is in a better position to provide a listening ear,
patience and wisdom, positive storytelling, and more to the children in our classrooms!
The Learning Tree preschool would welcome your involvement for 2 hours each week, 9:30-11:30 or 11:00-1:00.
Usual volunteer activities include reading books to individual or small groups of children, completing simple puzzles together, building with legos or larger blocks, make believe play with puppets, singing or other musical activities, working with clay or other art materials, and much more! It is also possible to share a special talent such as
wood-working or weaving if preferred. After we learn your volunteer interests, and conduct a brief one hour orientation, you will be assigned to a specific classroom so that you may develop a relationship with the children and
teachers over your weeks of volunteering. A whole school year commitment is not required and seasonal volunteering is welcomed as well. For more information, please contact preschool director Jesyca Russell Virnig, 239-4335499
Everyone is looking forward to seeing the exciting plans for this summer's fantastic preschool camp. Which week
will the fuzzy ducklings visit? Which week will the children build their own catapults? And what projects are
planned for Mitzvah week? Keep an eye on our website as the summer camp brochure will become available early
in March! Summer camp begins June 20.
Jesyca Russell Virnig, M.A.Ed.
Director The Learning Tree (239) 433-5499 learningtree15@yahoo.com
CARING AND SHARING
www.learningtreefortmyers.com
by Dani Weiner
MAZEL TOV DANI ON YOUR NEW HIP !!!
Know someone in the hospital, rehab or recuperating at home?
At Temple Beth El, we like to think of our fellow congregants as family. We often hear many names recited during the
Mi Shebeirach (the healing blessing). If you know of a temple member who would appreciate a chat or visit with
Rabbi Ourach, please contact the office at 433-0018 x201 or x203. Due to pr ivacy issues, the Rabbi does not
know who is in the hospital unless someone provides this information. If you know of one of our fellow congregants
who is ill and in the hospital please contact the office at the above number and provide the person’s name, hospital and
room number if possible. There are forms available for you to leave this information in the basket provided at the entrance to the Dubin Center. You can fill out the form anytime you’re in the building.
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The Magic of the Night: Oz Pearlman
‘TEAMWORK divides the task and multiplies the SUCCESS’
Thanks to a wonderful team of
volunteers and community support,
Temple Beth El’s recent “Oz Pearlman,
The Mentalist” event held on February
21st at Pelican Preserve was a huge success.
We are fortunate to have a supportive fundraising committee whose
core members include Ruth Ehrreich,
Barbara Gribin, Carolyn Gora and Pam
Arkin. These incredible women continue to astound with their creativity
and dedication to TBE. The talented
Randy Kashi was responsible for the
graphic artwork, from ads, posters and
tickets to the event program book.
Jewelry designer, Mark Loren, was
gracious enough to create a work of art for us to raffle, raising even more money for TBE and the Dubin Alzheimers Resource Center.
When we sent out a request for additional committee members to help sell ads for our program book,
we were delighted with the response and results from Arlene Foreman, Carol Kann, Irwin Bosworth, Leslie
Schoenfeld, Doug Gribin, Bev and Ed Drucker, Mike Kashi, Jeff Avon, Phyllis and Berny Aronson, Judy
Zfaz, Betty Massie and Sylvia Simko. And, as always, thank you to Karen Kagan and Inna Vasser for their
support and for doing a great job in the arduous task of accounting for the ticket and ad sales.
Temple Beth El and the Dubin Alzheimers Resource Center are grateful to our generous sponsors:
The Forest Country Club, Galeana Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram , Re/Max Realty Group-Michael J. Frye and
Hal Arkin and White Sands Treatment Center. We also thank all those who advertised in our evening’s program book and we encourage you to support them. And, of course, thank you to all
who attended….it was wonderful seeing so
many people together laughing and enjoying a unique evening of incredible entertainment.
The night was magical and the planning was a labor of love. Working as a committee to achieve this success perfectly defines what we mean by community and
Temple Beth El has a long and rich history
of accomplishing amazing things
….together! Won’t you consider becoming
part of our team as we work together toward
a greater purpose? Volunteer to divide the
task and multiply the success...you will be
rewarded with a feeling of accomplishment
and pride. Linda Sweet, V.P. Fundraising
16
Join us for the annual
Megillah Reading
March 23, 2016 @ 5:30
Come shake your
groggers and enjoy the
traditions of Purim
17
MARCH CALENDAR
3/1
Jewish Issues and Texts
Kabbalah level 1 class 4
3/2
Staff Meeting
Book Club
Religious School
Ritual Meeting
Noon
5:15 pm
11:00 am
2:00 pm
5:00 pm
7:00 pm
3/3
Kabbalah level 2 class 4
BEFTY –Dubin Center
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
3/4
Shabbat Service
Community Candle Lighting
7:30pm
Torah Study
Religious School
Men’s Club Comedy Night
9:00 am
9:30 am
5:30 pm
3/5
3/6
3/7
3/8
3/9
3/10
Sisterhood Bd Mtg
Current Events
Learning Tree Program
Board of Ed Mtg
Jewish Issues & Texts
Kabbalah Level 1 final class
Men’s Club Bd Mtg
Maj Jongg Tournament
Staff Meeting
Religious School
10:00 am
11:00 am
4:00 pm
9:30 am
Noon
5:15 pm
7:00 pm
4:30 pm
6:00 pm
3/11
BEFTY led Shabbat Service
7:30 pm
3/12
Torah Study
9:00 am
3/13
Mitzvah Day
9:00 am
3/14
Current Events
3/15
Jewish Issues and Texts
3/16
Learning Tree Bd Mtg
Staff Meeting
Lunch and Learn
Board Meeting
3/17
Sisterhood Dinner/Show 6:30 pm
3/18
Healing Service
7:00 pm
3/19
Torah Study
Jr Congregation
9:00 am
9:00 am
3/20
Religious School
9:30am
3/21
Current Events
Finance Meeting
Executive Bd Mtg
3/22
Jewish Issues and Texts
Board Meeting
3/23
Staff Meeting
11:00 am
TBE Megillah Reading 5:30 pm
3/26
Torah Study
9:00 am
3/28
Current Events
11:00am
3/29
9:00 am
11:00 am
5:00 pm
Kabbalah Level 2 final class
BEFTY Sanctuary
3/16
3/30
11:00 am
Noon
6:30 pm
11:00 am
4:30 pm
6:30 pm
Noon
6:30pm
Jewish Issue and Texts
Noon
Sisterhood-Bdwy Palm Lunch Noon
Staff Meeting
11:00 am
Every Member of our
Congregation will be receiving
a Purim Basket.
Please come by the Temple
and pick up your Basket 3/113/22 during Office hours (see
page 27) or during Friday
night Oneg.
11:00 am
Noon
9:15 am
18
TBE SHIVA COMMITTEE by Dottie Ruberto
AT YOUR TIME OF LOSS IT IS DIFFICULT TO FOCUS ON shiva FOOD
AND Preparations for family and friends, LET US HELP YOU.
This committee is available to help anyone who needs assistance in arranging the Shiva meal or memorial during
their time of sorrow. Food will be provided after the funeral for the family wherever the Shiva is being held. We
will bring the food, set up and clean up, we are very unobtrusive.
Three choices will be offered:
(1) A sweets table for 50 people consisting of cakes, finger cakes, candy, nuts and fruit.
(2) A dairy meal for 50 people consisting of: lox, bagels, cream cheese, tomatoes, onion, whitefish salad, herring,
egg salad, cheese platter, vegetable platter, and potato salad.
(3) A combination of numbers one and two for 50 people.
Cost to the family will be based on which choice is selected.
For more information or to volunteer to help, contact Dottie Ruberto, (239) 482-2552 or dotbob1@comcast.net
TBE Garden of Memories Cemetery Committee was
formed in 1999 with Rules & Regulations adopted by
the Temple’s Board of Trustees in 2000.
The Cemetery Committee is responsible for all aspects of the cemetery:
maintenance and beautification of the grounds; processing the assignment of burial spaces; inscriptions
being placed on the Memorial Wall; all financial transactions; and burial services.
The Committee has three events at the cemetery each
year – Mitzvah Day; Memorial Day Service with Jewish War Vets; and the High Holy Days Special Memorial Service.
The Committee meets monthly for breakfast, “meet and
eat” with a formal agenda and minutes. The Committee
is dedicated to the Mitzvah of taking care of the final
resting place of Temple Beth El’s members.
We invite members interested in joining our committee
to contact Pam Arkin and join us for breakfast. "Have
you made Cemetery reservations?"
For more information about our Cemetery please contact Pam Arkin by email parkintbe@gmail.com.
19
HAPPY
ANNIVERSARY
Paul & Sylvia Simko
Russell and Carolyn Crutchfield
Harry and Ellen Greenberg
Joel and Nancy Levin
Lawrence & Leslie Schoenfeld
Rick & Laura Waks
Stephen and Vicki Zellner
Russel & Nadine Goodman
WHY IS MY NAME NOT ON THIS PAGE
3/1
3/3
3/18
3/19
3/19
3/20
3/20
3/24
?
If your name does not appear in our newsletter monthly listing of
birthdays and anniversaries, it is usually because we do not have
this information. Many members have left blank spaces on their
application or sometimes a one (1) looks like a seven (7) and sometimes we type in a four (4) instead of a three (3).... Please e-mail
us and let us know if your information is missing or incorrect it is
very easy for us to update your records, but we need you to let us
know.
Please help us update our records. Send your changes to:
inna@TempleBethEl.com
20
Gloria Whitesman
Jacob Rubin
Michelle Rosenbaum
Harold Schindler
Marilyn Tenenbaum
Russell Bogen
Russell Crutchfield
Craig Hersch
Karen Weiss
Gail Arenstein
Deborah Gerson
Ellen Greenberg
Adam Heller
Audrey Brookfield
David Goldberg
Paul Tritel
Martin Zfaz
Michael Langberg
Irwin Friedman
Sidney Harris
Sandi Sauls
Alan Freeman
Eliot Hoffman
Robert Luber
Barry Blitz
Rollie Fischer
Evan Rosenbaum
Janice Danzig
Darlene Duvin
Mark Okonski
Tom Vinson
David Baldinger
Betty O Harren
Wayne Newman
Lori Tritel
Stewart Ehrreich
Lauretta Hubbard
Tirzah Schindler
Laurene Baum
Kavitha Taschner
MichaelWeiss
Tara Ziegler
Rick Waks
Sharon Cohn
Michelle Berke
Bobbi Goldberg
Keith Miller
Gina Restivo
Charles Weisinger
3/1
3/2
3/3
3/3
3/3
3/4
3/4
3/4
3/4
3/5
3/5
3/6
3/6
3/7
3/7
3/7
3/7
3/9
3/10
3/11
3/11
3/12
3/12
3/14
3/15
3/16
3/16
3/19
3/21
3/21
3/21
3/22
3/22
3/23
3/23
3/24
3/24
3/24
3/25
3/25
3/25
3/25
3/26
3/27
3/29
3/30
3/30
3/30
3/31
21
KING DAVID
SOCIETY
LEAVE A LEGACY
Add Temple Beth El
to your Estate Plan
22
New & Established
patients Warmly
Welcomed
ASK YOUR FRIENDS:
ISN’T THIS WHAT YOU
EXPECT FROM YOUR
DERMATOLOGIST ?
SANDY MARTIN, MD, FAAD
13641 Metropolis Ave, Suite 102
239-208-4408
Fort Myers 33912
www.MartinDerm.org
23
MARCH YAHRZEITS
DECEASED
3/1/2015
RELATIONSHIP
OBSERVER
Eugene Wasserman
Frieda Tepper
Ida Chiger
Solomon Tepper
Father
Mother
Grandmother
Father
Barbara Vinson
Bobbi Goldberg
Allison Chiger
Bobbi Goldberg
Anne Rothstein
Carl Sweetland
Hilda Stein
Sophie Shatz
Mother
Father
Mother
Mother
Gloria Whitesman
Carol Price
Leah Warshaw
Beverly Drucker
Clarence Jackson
Hymie Barsel
Ricky Tartus
Sarah Aronson
Father
Father
Father
Mother
Margaret Bozof
Sonya Lubner
Jill Schreidell
Bernard Aronson
Elcy Poskanzel
Fay Kanthor
Louis Hochman
Aunt
Mother
Brother
Linda Bonito
Judith Rosenbaum
Freddye Rabinowitz
Allan Bralove
Rose Frank
Father
Spiritual Mother
Mark Okonski
Robert Silver
Ann Siegel
Dora Patt
Esther Schreiber
Hinda Zellin
Mother
Mother in Law
Mother
Grandmother
Bette Batson
Milton Rosenberg
Sylvia Schreiber
Doreen VanderWoude
Ethel Roth
Howard Stein
Mother
Loved One
Judy Williams
Gloria Kummins
Mollie Mirowitz
Mother
Jay Mirowitz
Lawrence Litman
Father
Bernice Turner
Murray Blumberg
Rosemary Fogle
Father
Grandmother
Phillip Blumberg
Craig Hersch
Glenn Traiger
Louis Friedman
Father
Father
Dean Traiger
Audrey Brookfield
Alexander Grodsky
Flora Goldhagen
Rhoda Frazer
Samuel Loigman
Sol Winer
Grandfather
Mother
Wife
Father-in-law
Father
Rosalyn Shraiar
Claire Goldhagen
Samuel Frazer
Doris Loigman
Rollie Fischer
3/2/2015
3/3/2015
3/4/2015
3/5/2015
3/6/2015
3/7/2015
3/8/2015
3/9/2015
3/10/2015
3/12/2015
3/13/2015
24
MARCH YAHRZEITS cont’d
DECEASED
RELATIONSHIP
OBSERVER
3/14/2015
Alter Daven
Richard Jacobs
Grandfather
Father
Janice Danzig
Bruce Jacobs
Edward Kozlowsky
Father
Joan Davis
Louise Rubin
Wife
Jacob Rubin
Rabbi Chaim Herzig
Grandfather
Lawrence Rosenberg
Brenda Marks
Joseph Levin
Morris Solomon
Sylvia Chasens
Sister
Father
Father
Grandmother
Clive Lubner
Joel Levin
Pam Arkin
Tracie Hurley
Ruth Kozlowsky
Simon Markovich
Mother
Father
Joan Davis
George Markovich
Bettie Sweetland
Millie Warshaw
Mother
Mother
Carol Price
Stan Warshaw
Bessie Nadelman
Rosalie Goldstein
Ruby Williams
Sara Klein
Grandmother
Mother
Mother
Mother
Paul Lewis
Burt Goldstein
Janice Danzig
Louis Klein
Benjamin Kaufman
Father
Beverly Banks
David Blum
Harry Ain
Toby Bordansky
Brother
Father
Sister
Randy Kashi
Barbara Lieberman
Samuel Frazer
Ruth Cramer
Mother in law
Marvin Gilman
3/15/2015
3/16/2015
3/19/2015
3/20/2015
3/21/2015
3/22/2015
3/25/2015
3/26/2015
3/27/2015
3/30/2015
WHEN WILL MY YARHZEIT BE READ DURING SERVICES
Our computer system recognizes and prints the Yahrzeit dates from the Saturday prior through the Friday of the service. For example, On Friday, September 18th, we read names from September 12th – 18th. Please double check to
make certain you have the correct Friday night service for your Yahrzeit.
If you did not receive a Yahrzeit letter, please contact the office. We have many applications that have been left blank,
it is important you help us update our records. Many years ago the Temple switched software programs and the new
program did not allow us to track Hebrew Yahrzeit dates. We have subsequently purchased the module that will allow
us to “sort” by Hebrew OR English date. If you know and would like us to use a Hebrew Date, please e-mail us and let
us know, we are here to support you.:
Inna@templebethel.com or karenktbe@gmail.com
25
CONTRIBUTIONS
Thank you Sisterhood and Men’s Club
for the beautiful Silk flower
arrangements on the Bima
Thank you to my TBE family for your well
wishes and healing prayers: Eva Gordan
YAHRZEIT FUND
In memory of Jeffrey Fischer
From: Rollie Fischer
GENERAL FUND (CONT’D)
In memory of Jon Davidson
From: Jon and Aimee Rubinstein
In memory of Stuart Landsman
Theodore Siegel
From: Robert and Bette Batson
In memory of Jon Davidson
From: Laura and Rick Waks
In memory of Ethel Kulick
From: Marvin and Lesley Porter
In honor of Michael and Janice Danzig’s
Birthday’s
From: Rhoda and Ira Silverleib
Norine and Meir Kehila
Susan and Richard Payne
Harriet and Stuart Schweitzer
In memory of Gertrude Thomson
From: Miles and Joan Thomson
In memory of Steven Hersch
From: Allen and Elizabeth Shevach
In memory of George Satin
From: Roger and Judith Satin
In honor of Rabbi Ourach
From: Susan Ferkel
In memory of Sarah Aronson
Harry Rosenbaum
From: Bernard and Phyllis Aronson
LINDA SWEET SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In memory of Irene Siegel
From: Howard and Verna Siegel
GENERAL FUND
In honor of Ira and Sue Citrenbaum’s
50th Wedding Anniversary
From: Larry and Tobi Morgan
In memory of Richard Horenstein
From: Linda Sweet
In memory of Simcha Zfaz
From: Martin and Judy Zfaz
Wishing Speedy Recovery
Get Well Dani Weiner
From: Linda Sweet
In memory of Jon Sidney Davidson, brother of
Caren Haiken
From: Lisa Tolep
RELIGIOUS SCHOOL FUND
In memory of Leonard Weinraub, Susan
Ferkel’s Father
From: Chuck and Betty Massie
In memory of Scott Duvin
From: Lew and Barbara Schwartz
26
TEMPLE BETH EL DIRECTORY
(239) 433-0018 • Fax (239) 433-3235
Religious School (239) 433-9808
The Learning Tree (239) 433-5499
E-Mail: temple.info@templebethel.com
Web site: www.templebethel.com
16225 Winkler Rd, Fort Myers, FL 33908
Office hours: Monday - Thursday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Friday 8:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
STAFF
Rabbi
Cantor
Office Manager/Bookkeeper
Office Assistant
Religious Education Director
Preschool Director
House and Grounds
BOARD MEMBERS
Robert Ourach
rabbiourachtbe@gmail.com
Victor Geigner
cantor.victor@templebethel.com
Inna Vasser
inna@templebethel.com
Karen Kagan
karenktbe@gmail.com
Dale Cohen
dale@templebethel.com
Jesyca Virnig
learningtree15@yahoo.com
Fabian Ruiz
fabian2748@yahoo.com
BOARD MEMBERS
President
Immediate Past President
Executive Vice President
Treasurer
Vice President/Administration
Vice President/Education
Vice President/House & Grounds
Vice President/Membership
Vice President/Ritual
Vice President/Fundraising
Secretary
Parliamentarian
Social Action
Public Relations
Garden of Memories Cemetery
Caring & Sharing
TEMPLE ORGANIZATIONS
Volunteer Coordinator
Sisterhood President
Russ Bogen
russtbe@gmail.com
Harriet Lipschutz
hlipschutztbe@comcast.net
Ellis Rabinowitz
Y7510@aol.com
Roger Satin
jayrsatin@gmail.com
Robin Jacobs
robinjtbe@gmail.com
Barbara Gribin
barbaragtbe@gmail.com
Vanessa Sax
jayvan2009@gmail.com
Soren Shamblott
sorenshamblott@ymail.com
Jeff Avon
jeffavon50@gmail.com
Berny Aronson
BernyAronson@gmail.com
Linda Sweet
linsweet8@gmail.com
Susan Ferkel
susief@embarqmail.com
Lise Plattner
lcplattner@comcast.net
Harley Greenberg
harandel@aol.com
Karen Weiss
Karenwtbe@gmail.com
Pam Arkin
parkintbe@gmail.com
Dani Weiner
cbweiner@embarqmail.com
Men’s Club President
Senior Youth Group Advisor
Junior Youth Group Advisor
PTO Advisor
Learning Tree Representative
Gift Gallery
Laurie Morris
laurie2287@gmail.com
Bernice Turner
btcansing@hotmail.com
Rich Chaet
richch8@earthlink.net
Elana Beame
sheasa13@att.net
Michelle Schoenfeld
michellejbgr@comcast.net
Karen Kagan
kaganfam@aol.com
Betty Massie
betty@cpamassie.com
Louise Weiner
sweiner420@aol.com
NEWSLETTER COMMITTEE
All news materials must be submitted by the 7th of each month
prior. karenwtbe@gmail.com (Karen Weiss)
Production/Design:
Karen Kagan
Editors:
Judy Williams, Linda Sweet, Louise Weiner
Advertising Representative
Printing/Mailing:
27
TEMPLE BETH EL STAFF
Palm Printing Printer’s Ink
2400 First Street, Suite 102
Fort Myers, FL 33901
28