Moving Forward A Time for Hope Restoring Resilience What We've Learned Reopening Safely Plus: Sweet Treats from Our Shabbat Bakers - Temple ...
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
T E M P L E B E T H - E L O F G R E A T N E C K
SHEMA HAS BEEN LOVINGLY ENDOWED BY SANDRA ATLAS BASS VOLUME 5 • NUMBER 2 | SPRING 2021/5781
Moving
Forward
A Time for Hope
Restoring Resilience
What We’ve Learned
Reopening Safely
Plus: Sweet Treats from
Our Shabbat Bakers
Each spring, the cherry tree inspires optimism
as it comes to life in front of the temple.
WHAT A YEAR!
BY GARY SLOBIN, PRESIDENT
Contents
This has been a year like no other,
and the theme of our spring Shema
our Early Childhood Education Center,
in “Enriching Outdoor Classrooms
mid 2021 to early 2022, with the help of
a search subcommittee. As we approach 2 What a Year!
By Gary Slobin 18 Moving Past COVID-19
Compiled by Sheri ArbitalJacoby
magazine focuses on moving forward Offer Seasons of Memories.” Find out June 2022, we will express our thanks
from COVID-19. In this issue, Dr. David about our new Netivot program for to the Rabbis Feldman for their tenure
Podwall, chair of our Medical Advisory TBE student and family engagement at TBE. Opportunities will be available
Committee, shares how our congregant by educator David Woolfe, and read to recognize their generous spirit, 4 What COVID-19 Taught Me
By Rabbi Meir Feldman 20 Giving Back on Mitzvah Day
By Jaqui Wadsworth
medical experts are helping us plan to about the success of our new joint keen intellect and inspiring rabbinic
reopen the building safely. religious school program with Temple leadership since 2009. We will welcome
Two of our High Holy Days speakers Israel in “Kulanu: Powerful Educational our new rabbi in mid 2022. Member Profile: Getting to Know
update us with sage advice. Dr. Maurice
Policar, chief of infectious diseases
Experiences in Person and Online” by
Rabbi Amy Roth, director of Kulanu
Several subcommittees will offer
opportunities for our membership to
6 Leaning in to the Impossible
By Rabbi Tara Feldman 22 Gloria and Jerry Landsberg
By Stuart Botwinick
at NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst, Religious School. be involved, from helping with focus
Perennials Provide Native Beauty
discusses how vaccines are offering As Rabbis Meir and Tara Feldman group conversations to planning Cantor’s Notes:
hope, and Dr. Victor M. Fornari, director
of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
plan to relocate to Israel in June
2022, we have begun developing our
farewell events for Rabbi Tara and
Rabbi Meir to creating welcome and
8 That Was Quite a Reception
By Cantor Adam Davis
24 Year After Year
By Gayle Monaster, Barbara Wexler, Eileen Walk
and David Sutin
at Northwell Health, shares tips in Rabbinic Transition plan. A Transition introductory opportunities for the
“Restoring and Building Resilience in Committee is being formed, chaired by new rabbi. Enriching Outdoor Classrooms People of the Book:
Our Youth.” In each of their columns,
our clergy members share the valuable
Executive Committee members Jordana
Levine and Ronald M. Epstein.
If you wish to be involved in the
transition efforts, please send your
9 Offer Seasons of Memories
By Vicki Perler
25 Our TBE Library
By Stuart Botwinick
lessons they’ve learned, as do several During the first half of 2021, our name and a brief description explaining
congregants in “Moving Past COVID-19.” congregation will be engaged in a series your area of interest to sbotwinick@ Restoring and Building Book Review
Look for the adorable pictures of our
little ones from Vicki Perler, director of
of discussions about the vision for
Beth-El. The search will be held from
tbegreatneck.org. General offers to help
in any way are most appreciated. 11 Resilience in Our Youth
By Dr. Victor M. Fornari
25 The Weight of Ink by Rachel Kadish
By Jennifer Still-Schiff
Kulanu: Powerful Educational
SE N I OR R A B B I S OFFICERS 2020-2021 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE TRUSTEES EX-OFFICIO H ONOR A RY
V IC E P R E SI DE N T S
12 Experiences in Person and Online
By Rabbi Amy Roth
26 Sweet Treats
Compiled by Sheri ArbitalJacoby
Meir Feldman MEMBERS-AT-LARGE
Tara Feldman P R E SI DE N T Leslie Abrams, P R E SI DE N T OF Howard J. Herman
Gary Slobin Past President B ROT H E R HO OD William K. Peirez
Netivot: Our New Pathway for Puzzle: Agatha Schvitzy in
14 30
C A N TOR Franklin S. Abrams, Matthew Moshen
Adam Davis V I C E P R E SI DE N T
Past President
Student and Family Engagement Fright at the Jewseum!
Sheila Aronson SI ST E R HO OD C HA I R S HONOR A RY T RU ST E E S By David Woolfe By Len Schiff
Ronald M. Epstein,
RABBI EMERITUS Sandy Lubert David A. Cantor
Immediate Past President
Jerome K. Davidson, DD V I C E P R E SI DE N T Rochelle Rosenbloom Louise Feldman
Doug Bernstein Judi Rosenzweig Ann Finkelstein Keeping Our Building—
C A N TOR E M E R I TA
Lisa R. Hest V I C E P R E SI DE N T
Stuart Lempert
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
2020-2021
Andrew Aaron
Jennifer Still-Schiff
P R E SI DE N T S
Cindy Gold
Alan Greene
Shari Isacowitz
15 and Our Community—Secure
By Stuart Botwinick
33 Preplanning at Beth Moses
Cemetery
E X E C U T I V E DI R E C TOR Sheila Aronson OF C LU B C HA I
Gloria Landsberg
Stuart Botwinick V I C E P R E SI DE N T
Doug Bernstein Ann Finkelstein Reopening Safely with Guidance
Jerry Landsberg
Jordana Levine Ellen Permut
16 36
Joanne Davis Linda Rice from the Medical Advisory
DI R E C TOR OF
Stuart Lempert Bobbie Rosenzweig Who We Are
E A R LY C H I L DH O OD V I C E P R E SI DE N T
Jordana Levine PAST P R E SI DE N T S
Amy Spielman
Committee
E D U C AT I ON Barbara Podwall Marjorie B. Kurcias
Felisa Myer By Dr. David Podwall
Vicki Perler, MS SAS Michael Zarin
Barbara Podwall Stephen G. Limmer
F I NA NC IA L SE C R E TA RY
Philip Ross Roger Tilles
E D U C ATOR Andrew Aaron
17 Vaccinations: Time for Hope
David Schwartz Shelley M. Limmer
David Woolfe SH E M A
Lawrence Siegel Franklin S. Abrams By Dr. Maurice Policar
SE C R E TA RY Sheri ArbitalJacoby,
DI R E C TOR OF Danna Sobiecki Nina Koppelman
Randi Weiler Managing Editor
C ON G R E G AT I ONA L Jennifer Still-Schiff Leslie Abrams
Leslie Abrams and
E N G AG E M E N T T R E ASU R E R Gary Slobin Ronald M. Epstein
Howard J. Herman,
Jaqui Wadsworth Philip Ross David Sutin Proofreaders
Grant Toch
Peter Tufel
Randi Weiler
2 SHEMA | SPRING 2021/5781 TEMPLE BETH-EL OF GREAT NECK 3
WHAT COVID-19 TAUGHT ME
that we could manage on our own. We Listen again to the song. Hanan ben coffee, hand us a newspaper or a bus
could outsmart, outmaneuver anything. Ari reminds us of something else: We’re pass and those who say hello to us
Our buildings were so tall—and not wise. We’re right. We know the answers. on the streets. This is the lesson
just in space but in time, as well. We’re so darn certain, self-confident, of COVID-19.
We built skyscrapers in our calendars. maybe dangerously arrogant. We were Try, try harder, to expect less.
Not a single brick of time was open; fine, great, before COVID-19—and Our expectations were so high. As
no crack appeared between our
meetings and trips. No windows opened
there was nothing higher than us.
“Until you came along
Hanan ben Ari sings: “We thought
we’d won it all. We built tall buildings.”
געגועים לבני אדםLONGING FOR
between social commitments and And infected us We traveled to every vacation spot, ארי בן חנןOTHER HUMANS
entertainment opportunities. And drove us mad ate at every restaurant. But notice, the
Our calendars were strong and solid— And confined us problem wasn’t really the trips, the BY HANAN BEN ARI
completely booked. And confused us buildings, the meals, the parties.
BY RABBI We almost forgot about time—to And frightened us The problem was more subtle—it was
כבר חשבנו ניצחנו הכל We thought we’ve already won it all
MEIR FELDMAN מגדלים בשמיים בנינו Made buildings that reach the sky
be together, to be quiet, to be calm, to Who are you?” our expectations. We thought: I have
? מי צריך בן אדם,בן אדם Man, who needs people?
just be. I, for one, was determined that Hanan ben Ari says that hidden no choice. I have to go. I deserve this.
לא יבוא עוד מבול בימינו Another flood won’t come nowadays.
I could be everywhere and celebrate within our madness, confusion and I need it. But it’s not true. It’s not
everything. I wasn’t worried about doing terror is hope, even blessing. What have healthy. We don’t need it all. We do
W
לעולם לעולם לא ניפול We will never ever fall
hat has COVID-19 taught too much. But I was (and we were) we learned? Are more buildings, in time have a choice.
נסתדר בעצמנו,תעזוב Drop it, we’ll be fine on our own
me? That’s the theme of this wrong. The first lesson of COVID-19 is and space, the answer? Will more things Expect less, suggests Hanan ben
נכונים וצודקים,חכמים Wise, correct and just
edition of the Shema. to do a little less and expect a little less. cure our woes—solve the epidemic of Ari. And what will happen? We quite
וכלום לא נמצא מעלינו And nothing is above us.
I am happy to share what I have Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel fear and frailty, depression and anxiety? possibly will receive more—more
learned in this last year. But for starters, suggests that we Jews are unique in “How you’ve brought back the sanity goodness and kindness, more warmth
עד שבאת Until you came along
I have a request—please spend 107 what we build. We Jews build cathedrals Longing for other humans and friendship.
והדבקת And infected us
seconds and listen to a beautiful song by in time. Even more important than The loneliness aches suddenly The singer closes with this (maybe
ושגעת And drove us mad
Hanan ben Ari, one of Israel’s beloved tall towers, strong structures in space, We no longer fly from here to there listen one last time).
והסגרת And confined us
singer-songwriters. You can find the we build cathedrals in time. The first All the parks are closed “Soon this would all end
ובלבלת And confused us
video with Hebrew and English subtitles time in the Torah when God uses the Weddings are almost empty And I’m asking you, if I may
והבהלת And frightened us
at www.thejewishinsights.com/wp/ word kadosh, sacred, is in sanctifying We’ve almost lost ourselves That on the morning, after you leave
?מי את Who are you?
hanan-ben-ari-gaaguim-livnei-adam/. time—Shabbat, the seventh day. It isn’t We’ve almost stopped feeling.” We won’t be the same again.”
The title of the song is “Ga’agu’im a building or a person or a place that COVID-19—and Hanan ben Ari— What is he saying? Are you clear?
איך החזרת את השפיות How you’ve brought back the sanity
Livnei Adam——געגועים לבני אדם the Torah calls sacred. No king or castle, have taught me, reminded me, about the I’m not. What is his prayer? That we’re
געגועים לבני אדם Longing for other humans
Longing for People.” It begins by no sports stadium or vacation destination one primary lesson. The best cure is able to go back to the way things were—
פתאום שורפת הבדידות The loneliness aches suddenly
reminding us how confident we all were is declared kadosh, holy. the human bond, personal connection. to the good ol’ days? Is he implying
כבר לא טסים מפה לשם We no longer fly from here to there
before COVID-19. What is sacred for us Jews? Time. Our ga’agu’im, our longing for people, that we won’t be again as we were
כל הפארקים נעולים All the parks are closed
“We thought we’ve already won it all Cathedrals in time remind me to is the greatest takeaway for me. during this wretched year of COVID-19
חתונות כמעט בלי איש Weddings are almost empty
Made buildings that reach the sky expect less, to build less, to try to do It’s time with our children and or that we won’t be again as we were in
Man, who needs people? less. As the great Jewish spiritualist spouse or significant other, with parents the years leading up to COVID-19?
כמעט איבדנו את עצמנו We’ve almost lost ourselves
Another flood won’t come nowadays. Sylvia Boorstein put it: “Don’t just do and siblings and family. It’s time with The difference is important. What
כמעט הפסקנו להרגיש We’ve almost stopped feeling.
We will never ever fall something, sit there.” And who knows, if friends who we haven’t seen. It’s the are we asking for? Hanan ben Ari has
Drop it, we’ll be fine on our own we expect less we just might receive more celebrations—and also the losses— an opinion, an answer to this question,
עוד מעט זה הכל ייגמר Soon this would all end
Wise, correct and just in return. Our fundamental COVID-19 together, with hugs and coffee cups. but he wants each of us to decide
ואני מבקש אם אפשר And I’m asking you, if I may
And nothing is above us.” lesson is about simple, soft, quiet, And it’s also the brief moments of for ourselves.
שבבוקר אחרי שתלכי That on the morning, after you leave
Hanan ben Ari is a bit of a prophet. personal time with loved ones and with kindness and care with the people who What are your lessons from this year
לא נהיה שוב אותו הדבר We won’t be the same again.
Before COVID-19, so many of us felt random helpers and strangers, as well. cut us a slice of pizza, pour us a cup of of COVID-19?
4 SHEMA | SPRING 2021/5781 TEMPLE BETH-EL OF GREAT NECK 5
LEANING IN TO
THE IMPOSSIBLE
are granted the opportunity to let go of Sleeping outside in a sukkah in Jerusalem
preconceived notions and to imagine pushes Rabbi Tara out of her comfort zone
what could be. to experience the change of the seasons
in new ways, to befriend a few mosquitos “Wishing Tree” in a field overlooking the
This year of living through a global and to consider the impossible heights American Embassy holds a message of
pandemic has imposed incredible of the stars above. hope for the coming year: “A good year
restrictions on us all. As we face the for all humanity, health and abundance
reality of COVID-19, humanity has without corona.”
been humbled. Yet, even with the
heartbreaking toll that this virus has
inflicted, the loss of human life and so A rainbow arches over Jerusalem’s skyline.
much more, COVID-19 has opened
new possibilities.
BY RABBI Like our people passing through the
TARA FELDMAN Sea of Reeds, we are experiencing an
utterly new reality: new ways to connect;
new ways to move through time; new
ל־הּיָ ם וַ ּיֹולֶ ְך יְ הוָ ה
ַ ַוַ ּיֵ ט מ ֶֹׁשה ֶאת־יָ דֹו ע
ways to think about life, our priorities
ל־הּלַ יְ לָ ה וַ ּיָ ֶׂשם
ַ ָרּוח ָק ִדים עַ ּזָ ה ּכ ַ ת־הּיָ ם ְּב
ַ ֶא and our future. As in ancient times when
ת־הּיָ ם לֶ ָח ָר ָבה וַ ָּיִּב ְקעּו ַה ָּמיִ ם׃
ַ ֶא we embarked on our freedom journey,
וַ ּיָ בֹאּו ְבנֵ י־יִ ְׂש ָר ֵאל ְּבתֹוְך ַהּיָ ם ַּב ָּיַּב ָׁשה we face the unknown and “lean in” to
ּומ ְּׂשמֹאלָ ם׃ ִ וְ ַה ַּמיִ ם לָ ֶהם ח ָֹמה ִמ ִימינָ ם the impossible.
Personally, the pandemic has
And Moses stretched out his hand over necessitated my remaining in
the sea, and God drove back the sea Jerusalem, for an extended period,
Thousands of volunteers gather on Israel’s
with a strong east wind all that night working virtually. (Even one year ago, beaches to clean the devastating results of Volunteers remove remnants of the
and turned the sea into dry land and the who would have thought this a late February oil spill in the Mediterranean. February oil spill. Jerusalem was hit with a spring snowstorm.
waters were split. was possible?!)
As always, I have been amazed by As Israel leads the word in vaccination rates,
And the Israelites went into the sea on the ways in which Israelis confront Rabbi Tara and her son are vaccinated.
dry ground, the waters forming a wall for the seas of limitation and seek to
them on their right and on their left. part impossible waters. The images
shared here capture the essence of this
—Exodus 14:21–22 spirit, which I have experienced in
recent months. I share them to offer
inspiration, as we continue to move
F
rom Passover onward, through this challenging time.
springtime challenges our May each of us find the strength and
expectations of the possible. If support to live with hope, opening our
our people can walk through a sea on hearts and minds so that we can see
dry ground, then—perhaps—the world the world in new ways, knowing that
is not quite so narrow, not quite as we will travel through this time
limited as it may have appeared to be together and emerge on the other shore On Kibbutz Ramat Rachel in Jerusalem, Two weeks after this Jerusalem
in Egypt or in the dark days of winter. with renewed perspective, resilience olive trees—an ancient symbol emblematic neighborhood was covered in snow,
As spring awakens into summer, we and gratitude. of the Holy Land—are planted atop pillars. In the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth, a human body floats upward. flowers bloom.
6 SHEMA | SPRING 2021/5781 TEMPLE BETH-EL OF GREAT NECK 7
CANTOR’S NOTES ENRICHING OUTDOOR CLASSROOMS
THAT WAS QUITE OFFER SEASONS OF MEMORIES
A RECEPTION BY VICKI PERLER, DIRECTOR OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
extremely aware of actually, physically Torah Celebration Project inaugurated
receiving: a vaccine for COVID-19. in March. This amazing Torah has
An interesting connection exists been a force for guiding the lives of
here, as well. We’ve all been overjoyed Jews for more than 500 years, and we
to see family, friends and members have received it into our community’s
of our community receiving their loving arms.
vaccinations. Appropriately, we’ve even It is incredible that we can connect
seen brachot to recite when receiving a to it and to Jews who lived hundreds
vaccine. Why not? In Judaism, nothing of years ago, thousands of miles away,
is more precious than the life we have by receiving and immersing ourselves
been given! As we hear stories of our in the words it contains. What does it
BY CANTOR community getting vaccinated, we are mean, l’kabel divrei Torah, to receive
ADAM DAVIS aware both of the amazing gift of life we words of Torah? Or better still, l’asok
have received as well as our joy for all b’divrei Torah, to immerse in words of
the lives being saved. Torah? Or even greater, to find one’s own
E
very week, the Jewish people There is another, more familiar gift we word in Torah?
participate in an amazing ritual: receive that is both concept and object in As our Torah Celebration Project
Kabbalat Shabbat, the receiving Jewish tradition: the gift of Torah. A unfolds, we will journey through classes
of Shabbat. What is fascinating is that Sefer Torah is, of course, a physical exploring the exciting history of our
we don’t receive a physical object but, object—ink painstakingly handwritten ancient Sephardic Torah. At the same
rather, an idea. We welcome Shabbat on rolls of parchment attached to time, we will journey into our own souls,
in metaphorical language, of weddings wooden staves. Torah, however, is also a with the Torah as our guide, to seek out
and receiving a bride. We take part in form of received wisdom and the the words of Torah that give meaning to
this weekly wedding reception, an event compiled generations of lessons taught our lives. We can’t receive those words
inherently interwoven with joy. to our people throughout the ages. It is into our hearts until we find them.
Some of us are also aware of the not by accident that the root word of We look forward to taking that
similarly named Jewish mystical Torah is shared with that of the words journey alongside you and for you to
tradition, Kabbalah. Both share the for parent, horah, and teacher, morah. eventually experience this amazing
same Hebrew root word—K-B-L— Torah is more than a book. It is Torah up close and personal, help you
for receiving. It was, after all, the inherited learning, passed down through discover your dvar, your word, so you
Kabbalists who created the idea of the generations. can receive it in your heart.
Kabbalat Shabbat from the book of Torah, then, is not merely our stories,
Jewish mysticism, the Zohar, which history and laws. It is a compendium of
centers on received wisdom. Thus, we how to find our way through this world. W IT H AN ABUNDANCE O F SPACE around the Temple Beth-El campus, the
find another, related and beautiful link It speaks to us and remains compelling,
Early Childhood Education Center successfully created outdoor classrooms
between conceptual receiving in Jewish
tradition—this time in wisdom.
because in every generation we have
turned it again and again to discover the
“We will journey into
for each class. The opportunities for our young children to engage with nature
Judaism does not overlook the relevance of its teachings in our our own souls to seek out were vast, and there were endless possibilities for exploration. The stimulation
importance of receiving physical objects. own lives.
The idea at the center of reciting brachot, Temple Beth-El is incredibly blessed the words of Torah that and creativity with friends outside provided all of us with strength and
blessings, is to acknowledge the many to have in its collection of scrolls one
gifts we receive every day. There’s one very special ancient Sephardic Torah, give meaning to our lives.” resilience, excitement, laughter and happiness—as we immersed ourselves in a
thing of late that we have all been which we are honoring through the world of wonder and new discoveries. ▶
8 SHEMA | SPRING 2021/5781 TEMPLE BETH-EL OF GREAT NECK 9
OUTDOOR CLASSROOMS
RESTORING AND
BUILDING RESILIENCE
IN OUR YOUTH
BY DR. VICTOR M. FORNARI
Parents and teachers are faced with the challenging task of discussing
COVID-19 with their children and adolescents. As these issues impact
everyone, we need to be mindful of how to restore and build resilience in our
youth during stressful times. The following tips offer valuable guidance for
interacting with our children.
1. First and foremost, create an open and supportive environment
where all children know they can ask questions. At the same time, it is
wise not to force kids to ask questions or discuss issues until they are
ready to do so.
2. Answer questions honestly. Trust is important now, in order to reassure
your child in the future.
3. Gear your explanations to the age and developmental level of your child.
4. Help children find out accurate information from the Centers for Disease
Control, so they know where the guidance is coming from.
5. Be prepared to repeat information as often as is needed.
6. Validate the child’s thoughts, feelings and reactions. You could say, “I
know that it’s really hard not being able to go to your friend’s house.”
7. Remember that children will hear what is said, and they may worry about
their own safety as well as the safety of others.
8. Be reassuring, but do not make unrealistic statements.
9. Children learn by watching their parents and teachers, and they learn
from listening to conversations between adults.
10. Do not leave the television or radio on while the news is being broadcast.
This may be frightening and disturbing.
11. Youth who have experienced serious illness or losses may be particularly
vulnerable to prolonged reactions and may require additional attention
or support.
12. Children who seem overly preoccupied or have significant changes in
their functioning, such as changes in sleep, appetite or mood, may benefit
from an evaluation by a trained mental-health professional. Ask your
child’s pediatrician or family physician for a referral.
Public health emergencies are not easy for anyone to understand or accept.
We can help by listening and responding honestly in a supportive fashion.
Fortunately, most children will be quite resilient.
Congregant Victor M. Fornari, MD, MS, is director,
Division of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, and professor
of Psychiatry & Pediatrics, Zucker School of Medicine at
Hofstra/Northwell. These suggestions from the American
Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry offer a
follow up to his talk during Temple Beth-El’s High Holy
Days services.
10 SHEMA | SPRING 2021/5781 TEMPLE BETH-EL OF GREAT NECK 11
KULANU: POWERFUL EDUCATIONAL
This page, clockwise from top left: Rabbi Meir lights Chanukah candles during a technologically
engineered multi-location celebration. Cantor Adam leads some Chanukah fun. Sukkot is
celebrated with the Lulav and Etrog. Gimmel children learn about Israelite slavery, as they
EXPERIENCES IN PERSON AND ONLINE reenact making bricks. Games and learning take place in all settings. The school year is kicked
off with song and prayer. Pupils recite prayers over the Lulav and Etrog during Sukkot.
Religious school students are welcomed to Kulanu with ice cream treats. Rabbi Tara shares an
amazing shofar blast during the month of Elul.
each week. They attend Kulanu program. These students participate in For our Chanukah celebration, we Engagement. This course of study is
on-site at Temple Israel once a week, the semi-private Hebrew Zoom classes utilized technology. Grades four through designed to foster connections and
where they learn, pray and gather as as well as a once-a-week Judaica class six gathered in two large locations, relationships and to inspire continued
a community. on Zoom. where we were able to see each other on commitment to the program during
Both Temple Israel and Temple Beth- Our Kulanu Education Committee, a giant screen, and parents were invited these crucial adolescent years.
El clergy are a presence as tefilla (prayer) comprised of lay leaders from both to participate in our candle lighting This new joint venture has proven to
educators for the various classes. Once synagogues along with David Woolfe via Zoom. be an overwhelming success.
a week, Kulanu students do a “deep and me, was able to meet in person— We celebrated Purim in a most “Kulanu has provided a safe,
dive” into Hebrew literacy, proficiency outside, with masks and distanced— unusual way, too. We held Maccabiah nurturing learning environment during
and practice with a semi-private Zoom in the fall and has now transitioned to games (color war) for kindergarten the pandemic,” says Gabby Verkman,
Hebrew class consisting of two or three Zoom meetings. through sixth graders with a Purim a Temple Beth-El member and Kulanu
children per class. Festivities foster engagement. Our in- theme. Prior to the actual event, each Education Committee member.
The combination of in-person and person students celebrate Rosh Hodesh child was assigned to blue (Esther) or “My daughter’s Hebrew has improved
remote learning affords the children the (each new Hebrew month) together, with red (Mordechai) teams. We gathered as extensively during this time.”
opportunity to connect with their peers spirit, music and fun. We learn about a full community to kick off the event, Lauren Juceam, a Kulanu
and develop a sense of camaraderie with the upcoming month and its holidays, then we divided up into age cohorts Education Committee cochair
BY RABBI AMY ROTH, their classmates, chemistry with their reinforce customs and values, and for scavenger hunts, trivia contests and and Temple Israel member, agrees.
DIRECTOR OF teachers and individualized attention in sing “Yom Huledet Sameach” (“Happy art competitions. “Kulanu offers the best of both
KULANU RELIGIOUS Hebrew reading and prayer-book literacy. Birthday”) to those celebrating during Kulanu also includes our twice-a- traditions, merging them under one
SCHOOL Kulanu also has 15 children who that month. Of course, the students love week seventh-grade program, which roof into a Judaism that is vibrant,
are engaged in a fully remote learning the raffle prizes offered at each gathering. is run by Avi Siegel, director of Teen authentic and educational.”
K
ulanu Religious School, the
new joint educational venture
of Temple Beth-El and Temple
Israel, became a reality this past
September. Our aptly named school,
Kulanu (which means “all of us”), fosters
ruach (spirit) and love of Judaism
through powerful learning experiences.
We kicked off the school year with an
ice cream social in the Temple Israel tent.
The Mister Softee ice cream truck, along
with chalk art and socially distanced
reconnecting, made for a delicious, fun
gathering—the perfect way to start the
sweetness of Jewish learning.
As part of our current COVID-19
reality, we made the necessary
changes to our learning routines and
environment. Kulanu children in first
through sixth grades participate in Purim-themed Maccabiah games encourage children to dress and decorate their backgrounds by color.
two days of formal Jewish education
12 SHEMA | SPRING 2021/5781 TEMPLE BETH-EL OF GREAT NECK 13
OUR NEW PATHWAY KEEPING OUR BUILDING—
FOR STUDENT AND AND OUR COMMUNITY—SECURE
FAMILY ENGAGEMENT BY STUART BOTWINICK
S
called Netivot. Meaning “paths” or SIXTH GRADE afety and security have become all who enter our temple home. Key and limited the sharing of online event
“pathways,” Netivot is designed to foster Netivot provides monthly family an even more formidable fobs and door codes are now required links. Some of our safety protocols
relationships among school-age families, education for sixth-grade families. The responsibility of the Temple for entry. Throughout the years, and preparations are less obvious and
TBE clergy and professionals, as they programming brings together Temple Beth-El of Great Neck leadership security cameras and access-control won’t be visible to most TBE members.
journey the pathway to the b’nei mitzvah Beth-El students and their families for and staff during the past five years. systems have been added so that we are These measures are meant to provide
experience and into Jewish adulthood. Jewish experiential sessions designed The physical protection of our members prepared for emergency situations. deterrence and protection.
Netivot are the pathways that we at to enrich Jewish learning and skills, and holy building—along with our As part of our ongoing plans to
TBE look forward to walking with our strengthen the bond students and virtual safety as many of our programs secure our building, several visible
students and families. families feel toward TBE and hone the and services have shifted online changes will be made to our facility
Netivot, tikkun olam and the Kulanu practical skills that our students will use during the pandemic—have required “These upgrades will this spring. Three sets of exit doors
Religious School are the pillars by which as they prepare for b’nei mitzvah and a greater attention. will be replaced: those near the
we educate our students and families, meaningful, engaged Jewish adulthood. Fortunately, both federal and state not only strengthen our original Old Mill Road Rudin Chapel
BY DAVID WOOLFE governments have recognized the threat entrance, the ones on our mezzanine
providing them with the tools for
meaningful lifelong Jewish experience,
Our monthly programs are staffed
by and designed to strengthen the and have assumed the responsibility to security but will provide level near the Rudin Garden outdoor
provide financial support and guidance staircase and the exterior lobby doors
“Her ways are ways of pleasantness, engagement and learning at all levels. relationship between our students, families
to nonprofit and religious institutions
an updated aesthetic at the main sanctuary entrance on
and all her paths (netivot) are whole.” and Temple Beth-El clergy and staff.
—Proverbs 3:17 SEVENTH GRADE like ours. While these federal and
state dollars are helpful, they are limited.
to our entryways. Old Mill Road.
These upgrades will not only
The Netivot program brings our seventh FIFTH GRADE
graders into Temple Beth-El each Like our sixth-grade programming, We rely on our members’ annual strengthen our security but will provide
W
hen Temple Beth-El Tuesday evening from 5:30 to 7 p.m., Netivot for our fifth-grade families seeks commitment to cover new ongoing an updated aesthetic to our entryways.
partnered with Temple where they are taught about Jewish to create a learning community between safety and security costs. To ensure that only the right people Watch for these and other improvements
Israel to form our identity, Jewish ritual participation and clergy, staff and families. With learning Some of Temple Beth-El’s changes and can easily access our offerings, we as we continue to enhance our building’s
combined Kulanu Religious School, the skills required for significant text projects and engagement, our experiential improvements have been visible to recently refreshed our mailing lists safety measures.
our vision included bringing the power inquiry by Cantor Adam, Rabbi Meir, sessions will be meaningful for our fifth
of Beth-El’s unique energy and gifts to Rabbi Tara and educator David Woolfe. graders and their families. These programs
that union. Our community’s mission Our goal is to use these learning will take place every six to eight weeks.
has remained consistent with the call of sessions to train our students to become
the prophets—to deliver justice and to active Jewish leaders in all aspects of FIRST TO FOURTH GRADE
work continually toward the ongoing their Jewish lives and experience. Families of our younger students will
perfection of the world. In many ways, the seventh grade is a be invited to participate in one or two
Our commitment to tikkun olam is a culminating time in our students’ lives. programs each year. These sessions
particularly important contribution to With bar and bat mitzvah, they stand will focus on home and family ritual
Kulanu. In addition to bringing social on a plateau and are able to envision experiences, making Jewish learning fun
action content and opportunity to the a meaningful way forward into their and meaningful for every member of
Kulanu Religious School, we continue to Jewish adulthood. We look forward to the family.
fulfill our vision and commitment to our standing alongside them—and then
Beth-El students and families with the going forward with them! Learning (kulanu), repairing the world
ongoing engagement and embrace of our We also recognize that for the bar (tikkun olam) and being embraced by a
temple community. and bat mitzvah experience to be caring, loving community (netivot) are
To further this commitment, we are truly valuable and meaningful for our the commitments Temple Beth-El makes
excited to introduce our program for students and their families, we must to our students and families. We share
family and student engagement at Beth- devote care and attention to the years an incredible journey together. May all
As part of our ongoing plans to secure our building, three sets of exit doors will be replaced this spring.
El, with Beth-El clergy and professionals, preceding the seventh grade. our paths be smooth!
14 SHEMA | SPRING 2021/5781 TEMPLE BETH-EL OF GREAT NECK 15
REOPENING SAFELY VACCINATIONS:
WITH GUIDANCE FROM THE TIME FOR HOPE
MEDICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE BY DR. MAURICE POLICAR
M
BY DAVID PODWALL, MD ore than a year after the variant, or B117 strain. This variant is 60
explosion of COVID-19 cases percent more contagious and 67 percent
hit New York, real hope for more deadly than the original virus.
some control of this pandemic has finally That means this strain spreads more easily
arrived. Along with other measures, and results in more illness and death in
A
t the height of the pandemic when we were in lockdown, Temple Beth-El vaccines are the key to reclaiming our unvaccinated people.
leadership began asking questions about how to reopen once it was allowed. right to a more “normal” life. Infections in younger, unvaccinated
This led to the formation of the Medical Advisory Committee, comprised of The success of a vaccine is measured in individuals are resulting in more
temple members who are physicians. various ways. Does it prevent infection? hospitalizations, even in those
The medical doctors invited to participate represent various specialties and belong Does it prevent or reduce spread? Does without other underlying illnesses. An
to different health systems. I head the committee that includes my wife, Dr. Barbara it prevent severe illness, hospitalization increasing number of younger people beginning of the pandemic is that this
Podwall, as well as Drs. Elizabeth Mirro, David Sutin, Maurice Policar and Paul Levin. and death? The great news is that all are being admitted to hospitals with virus can act in unpredictable ways.
Using our knowledge, as well as the latest information from the Centers for vaccines currently used in the United the coronavirus, more than during any Factor in new variants, which spread
Disease Control and medical societies (some that I am privy to as a Nassau County States are essentially 100 percent effective other time throughout the pandemic. more easily and may infect those who
Medical Society board member), our goal is to provide the best guidance to the TBE in preventing serious illness and death Although the spread of some of these were previously infected or vaccinated,
Board of Trustees. in those who are fully vaccinated. variants is concerning, the strategy and the message about continuing the
Once Governor Andrew Cuomo allowed in-person events, the committee came Vaccines not only prevent illness and to vaccinate as many individuals as proven precautions makes sense—at
up with a safety plan for participants and attendees of the June b’nei mitzvah and death but also greatly decrease the risk of possible, as quickly as possible, is still least for now. The suggestions to use
the temple staff. We reviewed protocols and determined what personal protective asymptomatic infection and reduce the the best way out of this pandemic. caution and be vigilant are well-founded.
equipment would be needed. infectiousness of the few individuals who Overall, the news is good, and things I believe that it is our responsibility to
The temple was able to significantly upgrade the heating, ventilation and air do become infected. are looking better. We are all missing the be vaccinated when eligible—not just for
conditioning system with multi-spectrum ultraviolet germicidal irradiation lamps in The available vaccines are amazingly connections that give so much meaning ourselves, but for our family and friends,
the main sanctuary. safe. If you are eligible to receive one, to our lives. Does this mean we can ease and for all those who are not vaccinated.
As fall 2020 approached and larger groups were allowed, we implemented detailed there is almost no reason to decline up and relax? At what point is it fine to The concept of pikuach nefesh reminds
safety protocols to allow larger groups to attend both b’nei mitvzah and some general it. Vaccines cannot cause COVID-19. say, “Forget the masks and distancing?” us that saving a human life should take
congregation events. These changes were evident to those who enjoy our services They do not change our DNA and do People often ask me for advice about priority over everything. Each and every
remotely, as enforced mask wearing, social distancing and the addition of Plexiglas not cause infertility. Serious allergic what activities are acceptable once one of us has a responsibility to preserve
barriers could be clearly seen. reactions to the Pfizer and Moderna vaccinated. The call for continued the sanctity of life, our own and that
One of our true success stories has been our Early Childhood Education Center. vaccines are rare and treatable. precautions seems to defy logic at times. of others. Please get vaccinated. Please
Under the leadership of Director Vicki Perler, the committee designed a safety plan The J&J vaccine is associated with a We talk about how the vaccines can help to spread positive messages about
that allowed our Early Childhood Education Center to continue in-person learning risk of serious blood clots in less than protect people, and at the same time vaccination. Please continue to mask
Barbara and David Podwall share their
medical expertise as part of Temple Beth-El’s
with minimal distractions. two persons per million. This reaction we suggest continuing using masks and and distance (for now).
Medical Advisory Committee. Unfortunately, COVID-19 is not going away anytime soon. Guidelines and best seems to occur mostly in women younger avoiding large gatherings. At this point, In the words of one of the great
practices are constantly changing. By the summer, most of us may be vaccinated, than 50. Now that the condition is better getting together with others who are sages of our time, Dr. Anthony Fauci,
and we anticipate easy access to point of care or home testing. Our committee will understood, doctors are able to provide fully vaccinated seems reasonable. “Now is the time...to care selflessly about
consider these issues in order to help guide what we hope is a modified reopening appropriate treatment. It is important However, it is important to one another.”
“Our committee will help of in-person events at TBE in the months ahead. to put this in perspective: The risk of remember that we have repeatedly
serious blood clots is much higher from grossly underestimated the severity Congregant Maurice Policar, MD, is chief
guide what we hope is COVID-19 than from the J&J vaccine. of this pandemic. Given the of infectious diseases at NYC Health
Congregant David Podwall, MD, practices general neurology with a subspecialty A splash of cold water on the continuing number of new infections, + Hospitals/Elmhurst and assistant
a modified reopening of in neuromuscular diseases at Neurological Associates of Long Island. He is a clinical enthusiasm regarding vaccines comes hospitalizations and deaths, it is professor of medicine at Icahn School of
assistant professor of neurology at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/ from the appearance of virus variants. The not yet time to abandon precautions. Medicine at Mount Sinai. He enlightened
in-person events at TBE.” Northwell and an attending physician at North Shore University Hospital and most common source of new infections One thing that the medical the TBE community about infectious
St. Francis Hospital. in the United States right now is the UK community has learned since the diseases during the High Holy Days.
16 SHEMA | SPRING 2021/5781 TEMPLE BETH-EL OF GREAT NECK 17
MOVING PAST COVID-19 WHAT REALLY MATTERS
COMPILED BY SHERI ARBITALJACOBY enjoying and supporting each resume her healthy life. Her difficult
other, and acknowledging our talent experience reminds the rest of us
The coronavirus has changed our lives in many ways. Our time quarantining for the written word. After writing how lucky we have been to stay well.
has not only taught us some valuable lessons, including what we previously our own responses to each week’s After both vaccines, we look
took for granted, but will also change how we conduct our lives going forward. prompt, our brains get sharpened forward to the spontaneous
Congregants share what they’ve learned to appreciate during the past year a bit, as we listen to everyone else’s encounters and last-minute plans
and how they hope to embrace life after receiving the vaccine. interpretations and flow of ideas. we’ve missed, such as dinners at
We laugh a lot—and sometimes cry. friends’ homes, trips to museums
COVID-19 has taught us what and gardens, and feeling safe. One
LESSONS LEARNED really matters in life. We miss
holding and kissing our children and
member described her first manicure
and pedicure as “unbelievable!”
grandchildren. Some of us are already Even for some of us who weren’t
During the pandemic, I learned:
Throughout the pandemic, the TBE making plans to see out-of-town sick, switching gears after all these
⦁ I will never take for granted the smallest joys of life.
Writing Group has been meeting family. We are more aware of the months and getting back to our
⦁ I am grateful that my beloved mother of blessed memory left us before this
weekly on Zoom rather than monthly need to touch the people we love. regular lives feels scary. We’re
hit, as she was in a nursing home for four long years.
in person. Our online meetings have Those of us who live alone have confused by contradictory advice
⦁ I was able to miraculously reconnect with my very best friend after a period
been the next best thing to being become better at enjoying our own about what we can do safely. One
of 60 years, and we can’t wait to see each other.
together. Our friendships continue to company. Some of us have taken up member of our group expects
⦁ Very, very special people contacted me after years of separation.
grow, and our Zoom gatherings feel new hobbies. Long phone calls have to continue wearing a mask post
⦁ My students were resilient and brought me joy each and every day—and
natural. We appreciate seeing each reconnected a few of us to relatives pandemic. Masked or not, we all
continue to do so. Their daily thank yous made me cry.
⦁ Miracles abound all around if you are vigilant enough to notice them.
MAKING other’s faces without masks! and friends who we lost touch with look forward to meeting in person;
—Linda Goldenberg CONSCIOUS We feel that we’ve grown both
spiritually and in our writing during
before the pandemic.
Only one of us got the virus. She
we even chose the brand of ice
cream with which we’ll celebrate that
CHOICES the pandemic. Our Zoom meetings was quite sick and later got ill from happy occasion.
allow us to maintain contact, continue the vaccines. She is still working to —TBE Writing Group
As a result of the pandemic, I’ve
become more aware of my ability to
make conscious choices for myself.
With extra time on my hands, I’ve
become more careful about the food
I choose to eat. There’s more time to
LEAVING OUR
prepare a shopping list and healthy NARROW PLACE
meals. With so much more leisure
time, it’s become clear that my default Barbara and I are blessed to have our children and
activity of watching cable news is not grandchildren living nearby. Before COVID-19, we
the healthiest. Don’t get me wrong, I visited at least weekly. However, beginning in March
still watch the news a lot, but I now have 2020, we went months at a time without seeing them
the time to select and read good fiction in person. Like many others, once vaccines became
and nonfiction books, which I find much available, we spent hours on the computer vying for
more relaxing. Exercise is another issue. appointments, and our persistence finally paid off. With
Before the pandemic it was easy to just all the adults vaccinated, we were able to leave our
go to the gym. Now I have to be more mitzrayim, our narrow place, and join with our children
creative to choose activities, usually and grandchildren for a Passover Seder. We are forever
walking outdoors, to stay in good shape. grateful to those at all stages of the process who brought
Once life returns to something closer the vaccines to us, and, with humility, we acknowledge
to normal, I hope to continue to act on the millions of people, including some of our friends, who
the lessons I’ve learned. have lost loved ones during this dreadful time.
—Submitted by Dr. Karen Siegel —Howard J. Herman —Howard J. Herman
18 SHEMA | SPRING 2021/5781 TEMPLE BETH-EL OF GREAT NECK 19GIVING BACK ON MITZVAH DAY
BY JAQUI WADSWORTH
DIRECTOR OF CONGREGATIONAL ENGAGEMENT
food, so our Great-Full program offers
much-needed provisions—this time
for the upcoming spring break.
The Whitney Pond Park trail
restoration offered an incredible
morning of physical and rewarding
labor during the first steps in this
cleanup effort.
“We have an obligation
to care for others.”
“Restoring the nature trail has been a
dream for our Parks Department,” said
Veronica Lurvey, councilwoman for the
Town of North Hempstead, as well as for
John Darcy, deputy parks commissioner
for the town.
Volunteers come together to pack 40 reusable bags with snacks and lunch supplies.
Temple Beth-El will continue to
support this ongoing project with more
R
abbi Hillel says, “If I am not for of wisdom from Rabbi Meir and volunteer opportunities in the future.
myself, who will be for me? But meaningful songs of joy from Cantor The blood drive could not have
if I am only for myself, what am Adam. Afterward, our enthusiastic gone better. Held in our oneg room, 32
I? And if not now, when?” These wise volunteers departed for different donors, comprised of Temple Beth-El
This page, clockwise from top left: Great-
words teach us that while we have a locations to begin their projects. and Great Neck community members, Full food packing is an ongoing mitzvah
responsibility to care for ourselves, we Great-Full food packing, an ongoing saved more than 100 lives. opportunity that provides much-needed
also have an obligation to care for others. mitzvah opportunity that runs This was the first blood drive at provisions to local families during school
breaks. Volunteers prepare to restore the
Caring for others is exactly what more throughout the year, brought volunteers Temple Beth-El since 2013—and it will trail at Whitney Pond Park. Trail restoration
than 75 Temple Beth-El and Great Neck together to pack 40 reusable bags with not be the last. We look forward to our at Whitney Pond Park offers an incredible
community members did for Mitzvah snacks and lunch supplies—all of which next blood drive on Giving Tuesday, morning of physical and rewarding labor.
Volunteers come together to pack 40 reusable
Day on Sunday, March 14. Individuals are donated by a generous temple family. November 30. Plan to join us.
bags with snacks and lunch supplies. Town
and families had the opportunity to The filled bags are brought to St. Social action work is an important of North Hempstead Councilwoman Veronica
give back in three different ways: Aloysius RC Church in Great Neck element to Temple Beth-El and our Lurvey (far right) says that restoring the
through Great-Full food packing, and distributed to local families who members. The overwhelming turnout on nature trail has been a dream for the town’s
Parks Department. Rabbi Meir and Cantor
Whitney Pond Park trail restoration participate in the free and reduced-cost Mitzvah Day made this clear. Thank you Adam welcome the volunteers. The filled
and blood donation. lunch program through the Great Neck to everyone who participated. We look bags are brought to St. Aloysius Church and
Mitzvah Day morning began Public Schools. However, during school forward to seeing you all at our future distributed to local families. More than 100
lives were saved thanks to those who donated
outside the temple with hopeful words breaks the district does not provide social action events. blood in the oneg room.
20 SHEMA | SPRING 2021/5781 TEMPLE BETH-EL OF GREAT NECK 21MEMBER PROFILE: GETTING TO KNOW
GLORIA AND JERRY LANDSBERG
SHEMA: Tell us how you came to join braillist. As a breast cancer survivor, I break in—anyone can do it. Volunteer!
Temple Beth-El. have worked with [what is now known Do what you say you are going to do.
as] NYU Langone to create a breast Volunteer again and again—and you are
Jerry Landsberg: This was the second cancer prevention shower card. I’ve been in the clique. It’s about being involved.
Great Neck synagogue we joined. involved with Hadassah for many years People who have chosen to be involved
We moved here from Texas in 1963 and and they helped distribute the cards will become connected.
we wanted to join TBE, but there to thousands and thousands of people
was a waiting list to become a member! through hospitals and universities JL: We have been involved in a
around the world. synagogue in every community we’ve
Gloria Landsberg: When our children ever been in, since we were dating.
were older, we finally joined TBE. We are SHEMA: We’ve seen those cards, we
still members at Temple Emanuel. We have some in the temple lobby and GL: I got involved at Temple Beth-
also have membership at Congregation TBE’s executive director even spotted El when I asked Gale Sena about
House of Jacob in Wichita Falls, Texas. one at his parents’ house in Florida. volunteering. Gale worked in the
That’s where I was born! office, and I learned about turning on
JL: I served on the Board of Trustees the Yahrzeit lights in the chapel from
of Temple Emanuel for 20 years, and her. That was 30 years ago—and I’m
I’ve been a longtime Brotherhood still doing it.
“People who have member of both Temple Emanuel and
Temple Beth-El. I’ve been on the board JL: She’s been turning them on ever since!
chosen to be involved of Parker Jewish Institute since 1979,
including serving as chairperson, and SHEMA: Wow! What an incredible
will become connected.” I’ve been on the board of the College of mitzvah and responsibility. Does
Nursing at Adelphi for 40 years. I was anyone else know how to do it?
—Gloria Landsberg
a trustee of the Village of Kensington
and served as deputy mayor and police GL: Yes, I taught Elaine Springer.
commissioner. I’ve also been a trustee Teaching others is important. She can
SHEMA: How wonderful to be of the Great Neck Water Pollution reach the higher light bulbs, too. I’ve
connected to the greater Jewish Control District since 2007, serving as volunteered with many other things at
community. Please share more both commissioner and chairman of the the temple: teaching our religious school
about that. Board of Commissioners. I am currently students how to bake, proofing the
the secretary. High Holy Days memorial booklet and
GL: I was the president of the Sisterhood providing general office help.
at Temple Emanuel at the same time SHEMA: You’ve been so involved—
Marge Kurcias was Sisterhood president what incredible dedication to the SHEMA: Any last words for our
Jerry and Gloria Landsberg have
belonged to Temple Beth-El for 35 years.
BY STUART BOTWINICK at Temple Beth-El. The Sisterhood community and the greater good! Shema readers? What’s something
groups were very friendly, and we held Thank you for all you have done you didn’t realize you would find
community-wide Sisterhood meetings and continue to do. What would at Temple Beth-El?
GLORIA AND JERRY LANDSBERG have been members of Temple Beth-El
and luncheon events together. Jerry and you tell a friend who wanted to get
since 1986. They have been married for 64 years and have four I have served on the TBE Board more involved? GL: A second home.
children, 12 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Executive as honorary trustees for many years,
too. Outside of the synagogue world, GL: When the waiting list opened for our JL: Yes, a second home. We look forward
Director Stuart Botwinick interviewed the couple for Shema I have been a volunteer with the Helen membership, I was told that the temple to being back in person with our temple
magazine to find out about their special connection to our temple. Keller Center, since I am a certified was very “cliquey.” But I knew how to family soon.
22 SHEMA | SPRING 2021/5781 TEMPLE BETH-EL OF GREAT NECK 23PEOPLE OF THE BOOK:
OUR TBE LIBRARY
BY STUART BOTWINICK
I
n 1931, S.R. Ranganathan proposed Is a Growing Organism, that begins
the Five Laws of Library Science, a our process. Under this law, we are
theory of principles on how to best considering growth, modernization,
Our Temple Beth-El library houses
Clockwise from left: Soft lavender blooms line the Old Mill Road pathway. Vibrant buds welcome operate a library. These laws remain a weeding and safeguarding.
an extensive collection of Jewish books,
guests from the back parking lot. Flowering trees brighten the temple landscape each spring. foundation for public libraries around the Thanks to the efforts of Arlene which has served generations of North
Visitors are greeted by this beautiful garden, brimming with texture and color—even in October.
Blossoms frame the entrance to Temple Beth-El. Sweet yellow tulips signal the start of the season.
world, even today as times have changed. Nevens, a temple member and a Shore readers.
As public libraries evolve, our recently retired librarian, we have begun
synagogue library must evolve, too. For the process. A review of our content has purchase for their own personal
generations, Temple Beth-El’s library started with a culling of our materials. library during a book sale. New mini
PERENNIALS PROVIDE has served both casual readers of all ages
as well as those exploring more esoteric
Outdated books and those that are
beyond their useful life will be recycled.
collections will also be accessible in areas
around the temple, such as in the lobby.
NATIVE BEAUTY Jewish scholarly works.
While the longer-term plans for the
Books of interest and value are being
sorted and saved.
We invite queries, ideas and
involvement, as we look for our
YEAR AFTER YEAR library space are to be developed,
it is Ranganathan’s fifth law, A Library
As our TBE building reopens,
congregants may even find books to
Jewish library to best serve the People
of the Book.
BY GAYLE MONASTER, BARBARA
WEXLER, EILEEN WALK AND DAVID SUTIN,
VOLUNTEER GARDENING GROUP BOOK REVIEW
S
pring is here! The time has come to dig out your gardening tools and get in
touch with the earth again. What grows in your garden? Do you plant new
annuals each year, spending money and time weeding, feeding and spraying?
THE WEIGHT OF INK BY RACHEL KADISH
Maybe you should consider an easier, new vision. BY JENNIFER STILL-SCHIFF
Our Temple Beth-El gardens have been evolving into lower-maintenance beds
A
filled with easy care, hardy perennials that bloom and return year after year. discovered artifact in ancient writing; a crippling When a large trove of letters and papers from the 1600s
Perennial plants require less water, are perfectly adapted to our native pandemic; a female scribe: It sounds like 2020 here is found beneath the staircase of an old house, the two are
environment and are irresistible to pollinators like butterflies and bees whose natural in Great Neck—but these are the surprising elements unprepared for the complexity of their find. Not only are
habitat has been threatened by manicured lawns and non-native gardens. Alien to woven together by Rachel Kadish in her historical novel the letters from a Rabbi HaCohen Mendes, living in London
our area, these non-native plants are rejected by butterflies and bees. The Weight of Ink, recommended for lovers of language, Jewish in the 17th century, written in Hebrew, English, an archaic
Native plantings attract pollinators, which are vital to maintaining healthy history and texts, and mystery. Portuguese and Latin, but references to Mendes indicate that
ecosystems, essential for plant reproduction and responsible for bringing us one out Readers of academic mysteries, such as A.S. Byatt’s he was blinded in the Inquisition. Close inspection shows that
of every three bites of our food. Possession, will find a familiar trope in the modern-day his letters are penned by a mysterious scribe who is identified
The Volunteer Gardening Group has added some beautiful native plants to the characters—a mismatched pair of on the bottom of each leaf as “aleph.”
TBE landscape. Look for the sedum, grasses, coneflowers (Echinicea), hostas and scholars working in London. Aaron, The revelation of the novel is the rabbi’s helper, Ester; a
Carex. Many of the grasses are evergreen, adding interest in winter. a young PhD candidate, is trying to woman who desires learning above marriage and family is
Our horticulturists aim for a garden that looks lovely in all four seasons. prove something—anything—new an oddity, if not a pariah. We are drawn into her life as she
The volunteers hope that we will all soon enjoy our Temple Beth-El gardens in about Shakespeare and is on the becomes an unexpected scholar and goes beyond the roles she
person together. edge of despairing. Helen, on the was born for. As England suffers from the plague, her existence
Take a look at your own garden. Maybe this is the year when you plant beautiful verge of retiring, is an impatient is more and more precarious.
native perennials that are beneficial to the environment—and soothe your soul with specialist, whose worsening hand If you are intrigued by life in another time, by examination
their beauty. tremors make the painstaking of old documents and interaction of the contentious characters
You are all are welcome to share your time and expertise to help keep the gardens work of exploring crumbling text in academia, go find a copy of Kadish’s novel and dig into this
at our temple home beautiful. a challenge. compelling story.
24 SHEMA | SPRING 2021/5781 TEMPLE BETH-EL OF GREAT NECK 25You can also read
