From the Board - December 2001
by Janet Mauro, First Vice President

In the Bet Midrash

A Temple plays different roles in the lives of congregants. It is the: Bet Knesset - House of Gathering, Bet Tefillah - House of Prayer, Bet Midrash - House of Study

We are very fortunate to have a very vibrant Bet Midrash at Temple Beth Elohim. You can certainly feel its life on any Sunday morning from September through June as the classrooms and sanctuary are filled with our children. Our children's Religious school, however, is only a part of the Bet Midrash at our Temple. We are very lucky to have many adult learning opportunities throughout the year.

Every Friday evening Rabbi Acrish or Rabbi Frankle ask us to think and learn through their sermons. Sometimes they speak about the theme of a particular Torah reading, other times they give us a glimpse into their own hearts as they respond, as we all do, to the occurrences in our daily lives. Still other times, current event topics of the day are brought to our attention and are given a Jewish frame of reference. Often we are asked to participate in the discussion and the give and take of our varying opinions adds to the learning. I know that I often think about the topic of a sermon on the drive home and throughout the week.

I only had one year of formal Jewish education as a child. I learned about our holidays and values at home and my parents read Bible stories to me when I was little. That was the extent of my education and I really didn't feel a lack when I was living in New York City. I found it rather easy to identify myself as being a Jew without having to know much about what that meant.

Our family joined Temple Beth Elohim around ten years ago and I began attending services on a fairly regular basis. There was some that was familiar to me as I began to recall prayers that I'd heard on the High Holy Days, but suddenly I found that there was a body of knowledge that I was supposed to have that was missing. I could sing some of the Hebrew, they were songs to me, but I couldn't read it or know what I was reciting. As I read the translations and listened to Rabbi's sermons I began to understand more and more what was going on around me. I also began to understand that certain ways that I respond to things around me and values that I hold were part of the Jewish heritage that my parents had passed on to me by their actions and the way they live their lives.

I began to want to know more. The first Adult Ed course I took at Temple Beth Elohim was Hebrew. I can't even begin to describe the feeling I had when one Friday night I began to be able to actually READ the Hebrew words on the page instead of reciting from memory. The fact that my brain could still learn a new language was a thrill in and of itself, but I also felt that I had broken some secret code, sort of like passing some kind of initiation. I really did belong in this place, this place where Jews gather to pray and learn and befriend one another. Well, I was hooked. Over the years I have taken advantage of the many courses Rabbi Acrish has offered. Some of the topics have been about where angels fit in Judaism, an exploration of Pirke Avot - “The Wisdom of the Fathers”, “What is Kabbalah?”, and most recently, a look at the literal translations and meanings of our prayers. With every course I take I feel a more solid connection to my heritage.

We are fortunate to have a full schedule of Adult learning opportunities available to us this fall - Bible Study; Beginning And Intermediate Hebrew; The Reasons Why; The Different Faces Of Judaism and Coffee With The Rabbi. With the arrival of Rabbi Frankle to our congregation we also have a new women's Rosh Hodesh Group which will takes its shape from the will of the participants. Some of these courses will also resume in the spring and others will also be starting then. If you would like to learn about something that isn't on the schedule, mention it to either Rabbi Acrish or Rabbi Frankle and I'm sure that they will be glad to schedule a class for you. There are probably other members with a similar interest.

Come join me at the Bet Midrash, we'll learn something new together about our heritage and about ourselves.

Shalom,
Janet

November 2001
by Bruce Edleson, President

Shalom,

I have labored over what to say this year. What can I say that is meaningful in light of what has occurred over the last few weeks. What seemed important yesterday still may be but has lost some direction and impact. I do, however, feel it is important that we keep our Temple programs and projects moving and in focus. To that point I will try to be brief and tell you of some of our successful programs.

I can characterize this past year as one of reflection, as we often read in our meditation on Friday nights. An artist in the course of painting will pause, lay aside the brush, step back from the canvas, and consider what needs to be done, what direction is to be taken. In many regards this what was we did as a Temple. I am very appreciative of all the hard work, time, and effort given by many of our congregants. Here are some of the year's highlights:

1. We formed a long-range planning committee chaired by Larry Hepner to look beyond the day-to- day management of our Temple. The committee developed a mission and vision statement derived from commentaries from our membership. It is prominently displayed in our Temple lobby. I welcome those of you who have not seen it to come by and examine the collective ideology of our membership, which was so beautifully designed and framed by Ron Meyerson.

2. You have already heard from the Board of Education, the Men's Club, Sisterhood, and the Youth Group. I know they will continue to carry on many of the Temple's traditions and find new and creative ideas and activities for its members.

3. As most of you know we have elected Rabbi Judith Frankle to serve as our new Director of Education. I look forward to her many contributions and insights. Rabbi Frankle will bring us rich experiences from her previous career, her travels, and her work with other Temples in the area.

4. We have updated our Bylaws and approved them at our annual meeting. My thanks to Marshall Glen and Joe Greenfield for their efforts on this one.

5. The new building and fund raising - I hope all of you have had a chance to see the design and plans for our new Temple. So, the big question on everyone's mind...when do we begin construction? To date, we have selected a site, found adequate septic and storm water runoff capabilities, found a location on the site to put our new Temple. The designs are for a Temple which can hold our congregation on the High Holidays, allow us adequate classroom space, a library where Mr. Greenfield (who chairs the building committee) can sit and meditate, a room for banquets with a catering kitchen, a Temple with large enough office space to allow Nan and Roberta to do filing at the same time. We are currently waiting for our elected officials on the town board to grant us a special use permit to construct our Temple on the property which is located on Doansburg Road and are awaiting our local planning board's approval. We look forward to these decisions being made over the next few months. Concurrent with this activity our Fund Raising committee (chaired by Rose Aglieco) is interviewing fund raisers so we may begin a capital campaign. As some of you know, we have already done a feasibility study and found that our congregation is more than ready to contribute monetarily and get the shovels in the ground. For most of you who have not taken part in this study, I am confident that when asked we can count on your support. It is my hope that we all ask ourselves why Temple Beth Elohim is important to us and why it is important that we support our Temple not only financially but with our hearts.

Shana Tova

Bruce Edleson

September 2001
by Ava Saperstein, 2nd Vice President and Ritual Committee Chair

Shalom,

I have been a member of Temple Beth Elohim for almost 20 years. I joined the Synagogue to give my children a Jewish education. Like so many parents of young children I thought that once my children were past their Bar and Bat Mitzvahs I would no longer have a need for a synagogue. (Webmaster's note: Wendy Lobdell, our Youth Group Advisor, is Ava's daughter.)

About ten years ago I received a call on a Monday night from a member of the Board of Directors. She asked me if I would consider becoming Financial Secretary at the Temple. I asked if I could have a day to think about it. She said, "Say 'yes' tonight - you can always change your mind." Great
strategy on her part, because once I said "Yes", I was committed. I am very fortunate that someone asked me to fill a board position. Although I wasn't sure I had the time, I agreed. I have been a member of the Board of Directors, Religious School teacher, Financial Secretary, Ritual Committee Chair and 2nd Vice President. These titles do not only explain what I do for the temple, but are more an indication of what the Temple has done for me. Being involved in Temple life has given me so much more than I have given to the Temple. I have gained good friends, good advice, support and most of all an extended family. I have found a spiritual home where I can celebrate the joyous moments in my life and find comfort in times of sorrow.

I encourage everyone to get involved in some aspect of Temple life. Sometimes that first step is difficult. Find something that interests you, give some of your time. You will find that whatever you give you get back many times over.

From myself and my family, L'Shana Tova.

Ava Saperstein

July/August 2001
This month we are fortunate to have two entries for this column. Have a wonderful summer everyone.
Opinions and Observations
By Gary Lerman, Treasurer

I had been struggling to find a topic which I considered relevant to all Temple members for this Menorah article, which I volunteered to write. Since today is June 10, and I was given a firm deadline of June 11, I successfully procrastinated to the hilt. I knew that I would need some unknown intervention to enlighten my mind and enable me to find the topic that had been eluding me for the better part of a month. It was at the Temple's annual meeting that I realized that the best thing for me to write about is how proud I am of our Temple and how fortunate we all are to be part of this Temple family we call Temple Beth Elohim.

For those of you who have not attended an annual meeting, the format includes a review of the Temple's business and activities (past, present and future). During the presentation of these reports, one can't help but admire the dedication and enthusiasm that drives these Committee members and Temple employees to achieve their lofty goals. The Board of Education, for example, somehow coordinates 15 teachers and thirty-five aides in 14 religious school classes and 11 Hebrew classes for over 220 children in a physical environment which leaves much to be desired. And our children, from the students to the aides to the teachers, are able to adapt and succeed. Can you feel the pride?

There are many different Committees which address the needs required to achieve our short and long term goals. Among many other tasks, our Helping Hands Committee works tirelessly to coordinate whatever may be necessary to help a person or family in need. Maybe meals are prepared and delivered or perhaps grocery shopping is done. Whatever they can do to help becomes the designated task. Are you feeling the pride yet?

The Temple leadership and employees from the President to the administrative staff is of one mind. I have had many opportunities to see how people work in concert both in business and in not for profit organizations. I have never seen a more focused leadership or more devoted employees in my experience. We are truly fortunate to have that leadership in place!

There is a common thread which weaves it's way through all of the Temple business and activities and enables the Temple to run in a cohesive manner, as a Temple family. Rabbi Acrish has achieved remarkable success in his ultimate leadership role in Temple Beth Elohim. I am not shy about showing my admiration and respect for Rabbi Acrish, and I will continue to make known how proud I am that my family can call him Rabbi.

The Temple business is coordinated by the Board but is driven by our Committees and those Committees are defined by the determination, ambition, imagination and tireless efforts of our membership. During these peaceful summer days, please consider where your talents could best be used and join a Committee. As you read though this Menorah you will see requests for people to join specific Committees. Please consider volunteering some of your time or if you wish to get involved in a Committee area not listed, call a Board member. You will feel the pride!

July/August 2001
by Marshall Glen, Parliamentarian

Before Marilynn and I were married, we decided that we wanted to affiliate with a Temple. Marilynn's family were members of a Conservative Congregation, while my background was always in the Reform movement. My maternal Grandparents were members of a Reform Congregation back in the 1800's. Marilynn and I shopped around by attending services in various Congregations, both Conservative and Reform. Once we got to Temple Beth Elohim we knew that this is where we wanted to be. We liked the warmth of the Congregation and the warmth of the Rabbi. Rabbi Acrish even presided at our wedding ceremony. Several years ago I asked to serve on the Board of Directors and am now the Parliamentarian. I have served on other Boards of other organizations, some religious and some secular. As the oldest member of the Board of Temple Beth Elohim I hope that in some small way I can bring my experience and in another way, I hope that I can represent the older members of the Congregation. We tried to survey the senior members a few years ago, but the response was too small to give us any direction, so instead of the Board or me going to you and asking what you would like, I am appealing to you to tell me how Temple Beth Elohim can better serve its older members. Our new By-Laws have taken a major step towards inviting older members of the community to come and worship with us. Now we need to know what else we can plan into our program for our Senior members.

For further information or just to talk, please contact me via the Temple office. Your message will forwarded to me.

June 2001
The Long Haul
By Larry Hepner, Chairperson: Long Term Planning Committee

Who are we, this entity called Temple Beth Elohim? What's it all about for the long term, i.e. the long haul? Since becoming President of the Men's Club several years ago, these questions have intrigued me.

Through the years of our family membership, I have seen my children grow up in this synagogue. We have made many friends in the process. As others have written so eloquently, that in the process of "growing up" with the Temple, we have found along the way a wonderful sense of Temple family.

Did this happen overnight? No, but in the long haul, it did. Each member joins the Temple for many different reasons. Some, unfortunately, are looking only at the short term, perhaps for accomplishing some life cycle events before moving on. Others, by circumstances of career or location changes, can only focus on the short term. However the core value for the long haul is the sense of Temple family that takes time to develop.

To preserve the core value of the Temple as community, as family, requires the conscious or sometimes unconscious commitment to the Temple for the long term. How does one do this? It is done one person at a time. Reach out to someone you do not know when you are at Temple functions. Make a new friend or acquaintance. Find something that is interesting about that person to make a connection.

It takes effort to reach out. I know. It took me a while to feel comfortable in a new Temple. However, when I made a friend, it was someone who reached out to me from within the Temple. That was when I felt a little bit more at home. By doing the same thing, making a new acquaintance when we can, perhaps we are contributing to the sense of family for the Temple.

There is more to considering the who we are and where we are going for the long term. We all need to be on the same page (or at least within a page or two of each other) when considering where we want to go and who we want to be for the long term. As chairman of the Long Term Planning Committee, I want to share with you, what the Committee has come up with after a lot of basic input from over 100 members so far.

We have developed the draft Mission - Vision Statement for Temple Beth Elohim. This is a basis for defining who we are and what we want to be. The statement is designed to be one that evolves, but is forward looking for the long haul.

Mission Statement
The mission of Temple Beth Elohim is to be a focal point for Jewish worship & prayer, Jewish education, Jewish community and Jewish family life within the precepts of Reform Judaism and in the traditional role of the synagogue:

House of Worship, House of Gathering, House of Learning.

Through this focus, it is our mission to be mindful of our Jewish heritage, develop a congregational responsibility to the extended community we serve, and create an atmosphere of extended family for all our members.

Vision Statement
The vision of Temple Beth Elohim is to enhance the religious experience for all in our diverse congregational community. The Temple will enhance and expand programs in education, youth & adult activities, and service to the community representing a strong Jewish presence through Tikkun Olam.

Temple Beth Elohim will undertake planned expansion of programs, membership, activities and facilities in carefully prepared implementations that adhere to mission statement of the Temple.

This then is a first step in being on the same page with each other, to knowing who we are and what we are about for the long haul. The Temple is not just a building, not just the Rabbi and not just the religious school. It is all of us. All of us reaching out to make one new acquaintance, one new friend, to make someone feel at home is what makes the Temple secure for the future and ensure "the core value of the Temple as family".

May 2001
Janet Mauro - First Vice President

Shalom,

I'm writing this on the lovely, warm spring day after our beautiful Community Seder. It was very gratifying to see many new faces in addition to the “regulars.” I'd like to extend a personal thank you to Illana Johnston, Sue Berman and Nan Coulter for all the work in planning for and preparing the Seder and to Robin Rosen, Richard Sills and, of course, Rabbi Acrish for an inspiring service.

We also recently had a full house at Shabbat Across America. This time of gathering was successful due to the hard work of Ava Saperstein, Sue and Alan Bernstein and a large crew of helpers.

As you read this in May, many things will be starting to wind down for the year. Recitals are coming, school is almost over, Confirmation and graduations are nearing. The B'nei Mitzvah, baseball and softball seasons are in full swing and we are nearing the end of our fiscal year. Our annual meeting is scheduled for June 10th at 4 p.m. I hope that all of you who attended Shabbat Across America and our Community Seder will also come to this communal event. Our annual meeting is a time when you, the congregation, can listen to reports of the many committees that keep our Temple running. You may ask questions and make suggestions on what you need and want from us. We know that you are interested. Our events and services are filled to overflowing. Please plan on attending. We need your input and look forward to seeing you all there.

April 2001
by Bruce Edleson - President

Dear Congregants,

I hope by now you have noticed our new format in the Menorah where we bring you a feature article by one of our board members along with regular updates from Joe Greenfield who heads up our Building Committee. As I promised during the High Holidays we will strive to keep you informed of synagogue news and events. I encourage you to give us suggestions on how we may improve our communication to you. I also encourage you to send in an article or even a short note on anything you think we should hear about, even something as simple as how you celebrated Passover.

As Passover approaches I am always filled with anticipation. I look forward to the coming of warm weather, greenery, familiar bird songs, and sitting at the Seder table with friends and family that I may not have seen in a while. The one thing I am always reminded of is the freedom we all enjoy in this great country of ours, and how thankful I am that we do not live under the tyrannical rule of a Pharaoh or a dictatorial government where one's beliefs can be thought of as criminal. I am ashamed to admit that I tend to take my freedom for granted. I wake up most days and actually believe that nothing can happen to my little world, and that somebody somewhere is taking care of the country and the freedom thing. When I do have a moment to reflect, I come to terms with the truth. I must work to preserve freedom. It does not rest solely on the backs of the President, Congress, and religious leaders. The preservation of freedom must be a personal effort each day. When I see injustices which can slowly erode personal freedom, it is my duty to do something more than turn my back hoping they will just go away, or say, "This is just an isolated incident it will not happen again." While I can't always be crusader, if I can do a little something no matter how small it is far better than doing nothing. I am thankful that we live in a compassionate society where most of us will do something rather than nothing in the face of injustice; and so I remain very optimistic that our freedom will be preserved for generations to come.

I look forward to seeing many of you on the second night of Passover at the Temple's Seder table. For those who I do not see, I wish you, your family and friends a Ziesen Pesach.

March 2001
By Iris Niwinsky, Corresponding Secretary

As we all dig out from the snow, I know I am looking forward to the arrival of Spring at the end of this month. I can't wait to see the flowers start to come up again and the new buds on the trees. It is a time for regeneration and renewal, both physically and spiritually. For me the Temple has sparked my desire to learn more about Judaism and spirituality.

My involvement with Temple Beth Elohim began when my 7-year-old daughter came rushing home from Sunday School with the School News. She pointed to an item regarding the need for a school party coordinator. She said she thought I would be perfect for the job and that I should call Nan right away before somebody else volunteered. I was a little hesitant since we had just joined the Temple and I was feeling shy about volunteering, but my daughter's enthusiasm gave me the courage to call. That was 5 years ago and I'm still coordinating school parties. I've met a lot of warm, wonderful people in the kitchen, either doling out latkes or cutting up gefilte fish.

I enjoy coming to services on Friday nights with my family. Even though we're all tired when we start out, we go home agreeing that we are glad we made the effort to go. It is a time for us to connect as a family and realize our many blessings. This month, on March 23rd, is a special Shabbat service for Shabbat Across America. Temple families all across the country will be sharing dinner and a service together. It is a great way to meet other Temple members and to feel connected.

Nan's article last month mentioned Gemilut Hassidim, which means acts of lovingkindness. I think that is the core of what keeps a temple thriving. Without our Religious School, Sisterhood, Men's Club and all our committees and members who contribute their time and effort, the Temple would not function. On a personal level, in reaching out to other members in their times of need, we are also expressing Gemilut Hasadim. As they say in the corporate world, it's a "win-win" for everyone involved.

The new building is a major undertaking for the Temple and the Board. With all our discussions of the design and "bricks and mortar" issues, I don't want us to lose the spiritual side of planning this building. I'd love to see an enhanced adult education program or adult discussion groups on different topics. As a Board, we would like to hear from you regarding your ideas and "wish lists" for our Temple.

February 2001
Opinions and Observations
(As If Anyone Should Care)
by Gary Lerman, Treasurer

We all carefully consider our priorities and the principles by which we choose to live our lives. I will make an assumption that each of us who have joined Temple Beth Elohim share certain similar priorities which would include (but not be limited to) leading a Jewish life and educating our children to do the same. I must admit that I had considered this to be a job well done once I joined a Temple and I registered my daughter for Religious School. After all, paying dues and school registration fees was my responsibility and I was a great success. I certainly couldn't be expected to give anymore than that due to my busy schedule, being so tired on Friday nights and the many other reasons we all seem to stockpile. After all, I was being responsible to my family and our well thought out priorities.

It was not until my daughter was approaching her Bat Mitzvah year and the Rabbi scheduled group meetings with other B'nei Mitzvah parents that I began to feel a bit more comfortable in the Temple. I began attending Friday night services regularly and ultimately began meeting and establishing relationships with other members. I began getting involved!

We all have the best intentions in mind when we plan our lives and expect that we have thought through all the options available. But sometimes we have to experience certain things to be able to understand what is important and enriching in our lives. Since my daughter's Bat Mitzvah, I have become more involved in our Temple, which has enabled me to feel like I am a part of a greater purpose. More important is the fact that I feel good about being involved and that I truly believe that I am receiving far more than I could ever give. I am also aware that my involvement has been a valuable lesson to my daughter and that is one lesson, which can only be taught by deeds.

My small contributions and ongoing involvement continue to be fulfilling experiences, which I hope through this brief statement, I have been able to convey to you, my Temple family. Maybe you can find it in yourself to attend Friday services more frequently, join a Committee or possibly consider a Board position. I expect, this would be a choice you too will find enriching and fulfilling.

January 2001
Janet Mauro - First Vice President
2001 - The beginning of a new secular calendar brings a new column for the Menorah and website. As a board we've made a New Year's resolution to improve communication with the congregation.

This is a very exciting time for the Board of Directors. Plans are moving ahead for our new building at a faster pace than we have ever been able to move before. We've been busy meeting with engineers, architects and financial experts in an effort to build a beautiful, space efficient, and affordable building. Our building chairman, Joe Greenfield will keep you all up-to-date on our progress.

Our students showed their generosity this past Hanukkah when they agreed to forego the traditional grab bag gifts for themselves and instead contributed a beautiful array of toys to needy children in our community. The heart of anyone privileged to be in the sanctuary when Rabbi told the children about our plans was surely bursting with pride at their response. They truly understand the concept of Gemilut Hasadim, acts of loving kindness. Could they give more than one gift? Could they spend more than $5.00? Could these children use the bikes they'd outgrown? Not one voice of opposition to our plan was heard. How lucky we are in our children.

As a board we also need to hear from you. What programs would you like to see? What additions to worship do you need? Are we doing a good job? If you feel you are part of an underserved part of our community we need to hear this as well. Speak to any of us on the board or with Rabbi, contact us via e-mail - or phone, and together we will all work to make Temple Beth Elohim an even more vibrant part of our lives.