Where Contemporary Jews Embrace Traditional Judaism

Bulletin
December 2011

BETH AM

Kislev / Tevet 5772

JOIN THE CELEBRATION!!! Annual Hanuka Party and dedication of our School Addition Thursday, December 22 6:30 p.m.

IT'S FREE AND OPEN TO THE COMMUNITY - BRING A GUEST

Celebrate Hanuka with your CBA family:
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Buffet dinner with plenty of latkes Crafts for the kids Dancing and singing Bring your family Hanukiya and 4 candles.

Please R.S.V.P. to the Synagogue office by Tuesday, December 20 407.862.3505.

FROM OUR RABBI

RABBI'S MESSAGE

One of the songs we share on Hanuka contains the verses: "Down with darkness up with light... Each of us is one small light." The philosophy of the song goes far beyond the lighting of Hanuka candles as it speaks to the choices we make for ourselves in life. It has been said of Jews that we are pyromaniacs because we are constantly lighting candles. We begin and end Shabbat with the mitzva of kindling flames; we light Shiva candles upon returning from the cemetery and yahrzeit candles on the anniversary of death. Every holiday begins with the formula reminding us that lighting candles is a religious responsibility. Lighting candles is not merely a ritual: it is a philosophy of life. Where there is darkness, we must kindle a light; and where there is light, we must enhance the brightness by lighting more candles. As a congregational community, we are charged to bring Torah Ora - the light of Jewish Tradition - to the contemporary world. While many people immediately see shortcomings and failures, Judaism encourages us to focus on what we are doing well, acknowledging that we can always do better. There is no congregation in Central Florida that can match our spirit! We are not afraid to laugh and to find joy in our Shabbat services. We are proud that our children so comfortably and capably participate in worship services. Every Bat/Bar Mitzva family will attest to the fact that out-of-town guests are impressed, as are guests from other local congregations. Our children walk into our building for Religious School with smiles, and they know that at Beth Am they are a somebody: self-esteem remains our highest priority. It is truly a school where teachers care and excellence is attained. Our new school building is open, enabling us to expand our adult education and youth programs. Our congregation now numbers almost 300 households, with approximately 140 students in our school. New members continue to join the Beth Am Family, coming from all parts of the Greater Orlando area because they know that it is worth the drive. There is a myriad of reasons for belonging to our congregation. Some families tell me that they are willing to be part of the congregation because it is important for the children; others offer that with children or without, it is important to support the congregation so that it exists for the next generation. A young woman recently told me that she has no problem paying her dues because it is less expensive and far more effective than therapy! A couple with children in college shared with me that they felt synagogue dues were a bargain as the ongoing benefits outweigh a cruise they could take for slightly more money. A man in his mid-70s told me that he enjoys paying his dues because his affiliation ensures that he has a family. There are two dangers that loom before us. The first is complacency: we like what we have, so lets just stay as we are. Like standing in the proverbial stream, not taking a step while the water flows forward actually means that we are moving backwards. Today becomes yesterday: yesterday is gone, and the future will be gone if we are not careful. We must stop fixating on "what is" and get excited about "what we have the potential to become." We need to share our dreams and work together to make those dreams come true. In the quote commonly attributed to Eleanor Roosevelt, we can curse the darkness or we can light a candle. I am proud to be part of a congregation that actively pushes away darkness with light and delight.
Rabbi Rick Sherwin RabbiRick@embarqmail.com
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FROM OUR PRESIDENT

PRESIDENTS MESSAGE
Wow how time flies when you are having a good time it is amazing how several times over the past two years I have commented in the bulletin how fast time goes by, however, at the end of my two year term I must again repeat those familiar words. Two years ago, writing twenty-two bulletin articles and renovating our shul and school seemed like a daunting, if not impossible task. Its hard to believe that this is my last article as President and I would like to take this last opportunity to dispel a very common myth. Many people, including myself at times, have commented that being a synagogue president is a thankless task. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, as Ive participated in many events, and been behind-the-scenes with other activities, the breadth and depth of what we do never fails to amaze me and I hope many of you will aspire to a leadership positions in the future. We now have a school that is second to none with a congregation made up of the most amazing people that I have ever known. All of what we have accomplished was possible because of our dedicated staff and volunteers. I could not have done my job without the support of you, the staff, the Board and, of course, my wife Jill. I especially want to thank Steve Leibowitz, your president next year, for all of his help and support. The most memorable reward for me during this period has been the opportunity to watch many of our children at the bimah to chant their aliyah as a bnai mitzvah. To me our youth is the future of Judaism and we should do everything in our power to educate our children in Jewish tradition and culture. The second greatest reward for me has been the completion of our new educational wing. This new facility gives our children and adults a comfortable, safe and secure place to learn and meet. Additionally the best parts of position have been receiving all the compliments regarding Beth Am. I cant tell you how many people; congregants, new members and visitors have told me what a warm and welcoming place we have and what wonderful Torah readers we have, how beautiful our school is, how wonderful our Kiddush luncheons are after Shabbat services. While the job of President is rewarding, I admit it is not

always easy. There were times I was awake at 2:00 AM wondering how we were ever going to be able to complete the school when the wall to the old school was torn down to make way for the hallway of the new school. There were difficult decisions that needed to be made. I tried my best to listen, to keep an open mind, to look for creative solutions, to be supportive, always trying to put the good of the congregation first. I hope I lived up to your expectations. I have one last request as President of Beth Am: remember to see the best in your fellow congregants, in our staff, in our clergy, and in every volunteer who works so hard to make Beth Am the special place it is and do everything you can to support Steve Leibowitz, our new president in any way that you can. We are so lucky to have such a passionate and dedicated person to lead our congregation. Thank you for the honor of being President. As I return to my seat along the wall on the right side of the sanctuary on Shabbat morning my perception of Beth Am will be much richer than it was two years ago. Jill and I would like to wish all of you a happy, healthy New Year. LShalom,

Jim Riola President

JOIN CBA IN ISRAEL: JUNE 2012

JOIN CBA IN ISRAEL: THIS YEAR IN JERUSALEM

To date, 60 members of our congregation enjoyed exploring Israel a family in 2007 and in 2009 to fulfill the mitzva of Tmikhat Yisrael, Supporting Israel. Each tour in the past has offered a spiritually inspiring experience specifically designed for the group. We fully toured Israel from coast to coast, up to the Lebanese border and across to the Golan Heights, then back down to Jerusalem. One highlight of our most recent tour was a morning service at the Wall lead by six Bnai Mitzva where each one read from the Torah, and everyone received an aliya. We will again offer this opportunity to both teens and adults. The 5772 trip is tentatively set to leave on June 12, 2012, for a full 10 days of touring. We need a minimum of 30 people for the trip to take place. We are planning to schedule an information meeting in December. Please contact Rabbi Rick <rabbirick@embarqmail.com> if you are considering the POSSIBILITY of joining the group, fulfilling one of the highest mitzvot in Jewish Tradition, and enjoying the experience of a lifetime.

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FROM OUR PRESIDENT-ELECT

The goals for 2012 are simple the road to attaining them is not as simple. Fiscal stability is a must. We need to make sure that we have the doors open for our members and make them comfortable and secure in their House. Going hand in hand with that is offering the services that our members have come to rely on for life cycle events, prayer services, education and celebrations. There are three full cycle steps for success: ? Communication ? Participation ? Explanation Communication - we will be accessible to discuss your needs. In this respect, we can do no more. You have to let us know what you want. We have many ways of letting you know what we are doing. We have a weekly update, a monthly Bulletin, announcements at services and articles that we distribute throughout the community. We want to expand our external communications so the surrounding community will know who we are and what we do. See Participation (below) Participation yes, we have something for ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls and children of all ages. We have groups that regularly meet The Sisterhood, Mens Club, Book and Movie Club, Sports Shooting Club, Choir, School parents, Adult Education, festival celebrations and more. Please pick one (or more) and come to a meeting or an event. We have a variety to offer and they encompass everyone. Dont see anything youd like, dont know what it is about, or just want to know a little more about anything? See Explanation (below) Explanation although this goes along with communication it has been singled out because we want you to know why we do what we do. If you have a question or concern, please let us know. Let us research and let us respond. See Communication (above) and thus, the cycle is complete, We have a wonder facility. With the addition of the multi-purpose wing and upgrades to the existing structure, we are as modern inside as we are outside with the new paint, landscaping and signage. Our school continues to flourish offering a Jewish education in a clean and safe learning environment. Our school administration knows what our next generation needs to be productive and informed. Your dues include so much more that High Holiday tickets if you want to take advantage of what is offered at your House. Be a part of the crowd that shows up. We are open to the young, old and everyone in between.

Steve Leibowitz, President Elect

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MEMORIAL PLAQUES
A plaque on the Memorial Board in our Sanctuary is a fitting way to remember family members whom we recall with warmth and affection. To honor the memory of a loved one with a plaque, please submit your request (accompanied by payment of $360) to our office. The form is available in our office or on the secure Payments Page of our website, where you can also make payment.

HOW TO CONTACT US
407.862.3505 Shalom@CongBethAm.org www.CongBethAm.org Please direct all correspondence to: P.O. Box 915756 Longwood, FL 32791-5756 We're located at: 3899 Sand Lake Road Longwood, FL 32779

ADULT BAT/BAR MITZVA SERVICE

JANUARY 25 & 26, 2013

The date has been set for a class of adults to be called to the Torah as Bnai Mitzva! The program is in response to the adults who have expressed interest in becoming Adult Bnai Mitzva. Some of the explanations: (1) I did not have the opportunity when I was younger, (2) I went through the experience but it didnt go through me, (3) I just want to learn more, and/ or (4) I wasnt Jewish when I was younger. Our study program continues with classes on the first and third Sunday in November, 11/6 and 11/20 at 11 am. Please contact Rabbi Rick by e -mail if you are interested in participating in this program or you have any questions.

CBA Office Hours Saturday, Sunday & Mondayclosed Tuesday thru Friday 9:00 am3:00 pm Wednesdays during School until 6:00 pm

eBay at CBA
While doing your summer cleaning, did you find things you just dont want or cant use but theyll have some value to someone? If so, please donate these items to us it's a win-win situation. You support Beth Am and get the tax deduction we sell the items on eBay and other venues and use the pro, activities and programming at Beth Am. Please call Herb (407.774.9695) if you have any questions or to arrange for pickup of your unused treasures.

ASSIGNING BAR/BAT MITZVA DATES We are now assigning dates for the 2012-2014 Bar/Bat Mitzva lists. We plan early so as to give our long-standing members first access to open dates. If your child was born in 1999, 2000 or 2001, and you have not yet arranged for a date to be reserved, please contact Rabbi Rick so that your child will not be inadvertently overlooked. Assignments are made on the basis of one's 13th Hebrew birthday, with flexibility for summer birthdays and special circumstances.

Visit Us On The Web go to www.congbetham.org

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CBA Sisterhood - Affiliated with Womens League for Conservative Judaism

December means just one thingit must be time for Chanukah! And our CBA Sisterhood is ready to help you celebrate. The Gift Shop will be open for your shopping convenience. Dates and times will be announced through the blast. We have dreidels, gelt, decorations, chanukiyot and more! Support our Sisterhood as we support our synagogue! The annual Chanukah Party will be held on Thursday, December 22, the 3rd night of Chanukah. We will be assisting the Mens Club and Religious School in bringing this joyous event to the congregation. If you are able to come help set up during the day on Thursday, please let me know. Thank you to Eva Gaber for the wonderful beaded Kippah class. Look for these beautiful creations next time youre in services. They will be worn with pride! Our CBA Sisterhood Shabbat will be January 27-28. If you are interested in participating in the service please contact Norma Greenberg at normajg28@aol.com. For more information about our CBA Sisterhood, please contact me. I look forward to welcoming even more women to our Sisterhood, hearing your ideas and working with you to create a warm and caring community within our shul.

BOOK & MOVIE CLUB

The CBA Book & Movie Club has been very busy over the past few months. In September we read, and later discussed, The Amber Room. This was a suspenseful book about the search for the amber panels from Catherines Palace in St. Petersburg, Russia which disappeared during the Nazi era October was movie time again. We viewed a wonderful documentary about Gertrude Berg from the 1950s TV series, The Goldbergs. We learned what a fabulous woman she was. As a leading lady and as business woman, Gertrude was well ahead of her time and broke down many doors, opening the way for those to come.. Also, she won the first Emmy given to a female actress. She was affected by the Black List but managed to continue her successes. As Jews, we should consider her as an inspiration and role model for all of us. We will take a break during the month of December, but look forward to 2012. January will be another movie Water for Elephants and will be held in a members home. February will be the book Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese. It is a wonderful story that takes place in Ethiopia and the United States.more information to come in the January bulletin. We always welcome new members and visitors. Please contact me for any further information. Happy Chanuka to everyone!

Bshalom Cathy Swerdlow President CBA Sisterhood

Norma Greenberg 407-788-2285 Normajg28@aol.com

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December 2011

Congregation Beth Am

Kislev / Tevet 5772

Sun
STUDY & DISCUSSION GROUP MEETS AFTER KIDDUSH LUNCHEON
4 9:30 am Religious School 10:00 am Mens Club Meets 11:00 Adult Bnai Mitzva

Mon
REMINDER: COMMUNITY MINYAN 7:45 AM, MON.-FRI. JEWISH ACADEMY OF ORLANDO
5 OFFICE CLOSED 6

Tue

Wed
1

Thu

Fri
2 5:10 pm 3

tb#
9:00 am Mitzva Class

8:00 pm Kabbalat Shabbat Bat Mitzva Jori Allen

Bat Mitzva Jori Allen Sunset 5:28 pm

7 4:15 pm Religious School (Longwood)

9 5:11 pm

10 9:00 am Mitzva Class

5:00 pm Religious School (Winter Springs)

8:00 pm Kabbalat Shabbat

7:15 pm Biblical Prophecy

Bar Mitzva Nick Horne

Bar Mitzva Nick Horne

Sunset 5:29 pm 11 9:30 am Religious School 11:00 Adult Bnai Mitzva 7:15 pm Biblical Prophecy 12 OFFICE CLOSED 13 5:00 pm Religious School (Winter Springs) 14 4:15 pm Religious School (Longwood) 15 16 5:12 pm 8:00 pm Kabbalat Shabbat 17 9:00 am Mitzva Class

Bnai Mitzva Shayna & Michael Rashy

Bnai Mitzva Shayna & Michael Rashy Sunset 5:32 pm

18 9:30 am Religious School Last School Session 2011 11:00 Adult Bnai Mitzva

19 OFFICE CLOSED

20 Hanuka Eve

21 Hanuka-1

22 Hanuka-2 Congregation Hanuka Party 6:30 pm

23 5:15 pm Hanuka-3 7:00 pm Family Service

24 Hanuka-4

Sunset 5:35 pm 25 Hanuka-5 26 Hanuka-6 Rosh Chodesh First Day OFFICE CLOSED Sunset 5:39 pm 27 Hanuka-7 Rosh Chodesh Second Day 28 Hanuka-8 No Service Shabbat at Home 29 30 5:20 pm 31 9:00 am Mitzva Class

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Catering By Artisans
(Your CBA Caterer)

IN MEMORIAM
As a Congregational Family, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Norm & Marlene Levin as they remember the loss of Norms father HAROLD LEVIN

Celebrating a simha at Beth Am?

If you want...
? ? ? ? ? ?

delicious food an impressive presentation personal, caring attention every last detail taken care of unbeatable pricing catering profits to benefit Beth Am Then...

HA-MAKOM Y'NA HEM

Catering By Artisans is your only choice! For information, contact: Sheri Rosenberg

Support Beth Am AND celebrate your special occasion with custom invitations and announcements. We carry a full line from Regency, Encore and Checkerboard. You can also order a tallit for yourself or for your child's Bat/Bar Mitzva. Contact Debbie Davids at 407.869.0238.

Promote your business with a Bulletin ad For information, contact Joanne at the office at 407.862.3505

SHARING THE CARING

Share the news with members who don't have e-mail Share your compassion with recently bereaved members Share your time with members who are home alone Share your time with members who are in nursing homes Share your time with members who are in a hospital Join the Care Team for additional information, please contact Debbie Zelkowitz (407.862.7471)
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If we have inadvertently omitted a birthday, anniversary or yahrtzeit or published incorrect personal information about you in this Bulletin, we apologize. Please let us know so that we can correct our records.

DECEMBER BNAI MITZVAS

JORI ALLEN
Dec. 3
7 Kislev

NICK HORNE
Dec.10 14 Kislev Va-yishkah

Va-yaytzay

Jori Leigh Allen, daughter of Cheryl and Paul Allen and sister of Samantha and Danielle, will be called to the Torah for the first time as a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, December 3, 2011 at Congregation Beth Am (3899 Sand Lake Road, Longwood 32779). She is in 7th grade and attends Indian Trails Middle School where she is on nd Honor Roll for the 2 year in a row. Jori plays the French Horn in the Symphonic Band. In addition, to band she is also a member of the Drama Club and will be in the 2011-2012 school production of Follow That Rabbit as the Mad Hatter. She is an active member of the Girl Scouts and has been since 1st grade. Joris real passion is reading and writing and someday will have many fiction stories published for all of us to read. Sharing in the Taylor's simcha will be her grandparents, Mae Heller and Robert and Patty Allen, and Deidre and Al Trevelino, along with her aunts, uncles and cousins from Maryland, New York, and Florida.

Nicholas Michael Horne, son of Steve and Paula Horne of Longwood, Florida will be called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, December 10, 2011 at Congregation Beth Am in Longwood. Nick is an honor student in the seventh grader at Teague Middle School. Nick is an avid coca cola collector. Additionally, his interests include basketball, football, computers and math. Sharing in the family simcha will be Nicks brother, Benny; grandparents Al and Linda Gross of Longwood, Ray (Saidia) Goodman of Longwood and Mike Horne of Orange City; and family and friends from Florida, Georgia, Massachusetts, California, Washington and New York.

SHAYNA RASHY MICHAEL RASHY

Dec. 17 21 Kislev Va-yeshev
Shayna Elizabeth Rashy, daughter of Dan and Kris Rashy, will be called to the Torah for the first time as a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, December 17, 2011. Shayna is in the seventh grade at Markham Woods Middle School, where she sings in the chorus. Shayna enjoys hanging out with friends, listening to music and swimming. Michael William Rashy, son of Dan and Kris Rashy, will be called to the Torah for the first time as a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, December 17, 2011. Michael is a seventh grade honor student in the pre-IB program at Sanford Middle School, where his favorite subjects are math and physical education. Michael enjoys playing baseball, basketball and spending time with friends.

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WE THANK hbr hdwt

Millie Harris & Rose Lazoritz and Heidi Ulch for their help again in preparing the monthly bulletin for mailing Mike Cohen, Rich Citrenbaum, Kevin Colley, Craig Fishman, Jeff Grushka Steve Leibowitz, Mark Lichtenstein and Herb Weissman For organizing and playing The Mens Club Poker Tournament At the Jewish Academy of Orlando Rick Gardner, Steve Leibowitz, Ernie Meyers and Mike Stricker Our CBA Security Team Joanne Weiss For all her efforts in making Torah Covers and work on the Sanctuarys Ark

We thank our 2011 Board of Directors

Immediate Past President President President Elect Treasurer Secretary V.P. Facilities V.P. Membership V.P. Education V.P. Religious Activities V.P. Ways & Means Trustee Trustee Trustee Dan Williams Jim Riola Steve Leibowitz Simon Mendel Michael Baron Ira Locks Debbie Davids Rachel Shapiro Mark Davids Lane Mercer Nancy Stern Cathy Swerdlow Robyn Colley

DECEMBER ANNIVERSARIES
1 5 9 12 15 17 18 Joy & Mike Stricker Alisa & Justin Zinovoy Nancy & Robert Berman Cindy & Jonathan Caplan Juli & David Goldstone Elyse & Alan Jacobs Elyse & Jules Baclar 18 18 19 20 21 22 25 Jeanne & Scott Gold Gail & Jonathan Lewis Ava & Manny Martin Candace & Steve Jaffe Bernice & Joseph Davids Ruth & Richard Rubin Jackie & Mark Lichtenstein 27 29 30 30 31 Jana & Evan Shear Linda & Chuck Silverman Kristi & Matt Klein Sandra & Marshall Pearlman Doris & Ira Locks

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WE REMEMBER DECEMBER YAHRTZEITS

1 2 Max Silver, father of Larry Silver Lawrence Dale Gaber, husband of Eva Gaber & father Lila & Felissa Gaber Barbara Hornreich, daughter of Jeri Leavitt Nathan Padawar, father of Joseph Padawar Sophie Scherr, mother of Joanne Weiss Frank Bobele, father of Ron Bobele Nathan Fischer, father of Calvin Fisher Marilyn Levy, mother of Marc Siegel William Hopson, uncle of Marlene Levin Joseph Perlberg, brother of Dorothy Klosner Samuel Schulman, grandfather of Mark Schulman Marvin Rosenberg, father of Andrea Lewis Harvey Franzel, father of Steven Franzel Ruth Robbins, mother of Robert Robbins Samuel Tulip, uncle of Cyndie Elman Diana Goodman, mother of Florence Kuppe & grandmother of Deborah Zelkowitz Sara Swerdlow, mother of David Swerdlow Manuel Mendel, brother of Simon Mendel Minnie Rosen, grandmother of Jack Klosner Judith Sheplan, mother of Ed Sheplan Hyman Kaplan, father of Lawrence Kaplan Robin Forrest, mother of Brett Forrest Jack Bernstein, father of Charles Bernstein Dora Liebeskind, mother of Ruth Snaid Edith Feuerstein, mother of Susan Robbins Rose Fishman, grandmother of Sheri Rosenberg Len Goldstein, father of Richard Goldstein Milton Mercer, brother of Dr. Lane Mercer & Ellen Solomon Annette Fink, cousin of Susan Shapiro Valentine Malkin, grandmother of Marie Agranovsky Lewis Green, father of Jeff Green Mira Straubs, mother of Zohar Cain Florence Lev, mother of Tobe Lev 17 Lois Davis, sister of Helene Gold Florence Klosky, sister of Albert Elman & Hilda Frishman 18 Nettie Chaiken, grandmother of Jerrey Weiss Anne Berknowitz, mother of Maxine Morris 19 Janet Lefkovits, grandmother of Mark Schulman & Janet Kaplan Ralph Laub, father of Robyn Colley Bertha Pervin, mother of Bernice Shapiro & grandmother of Susan Shapiro 20 Irving Greenwald, father of Sherril Bracco Mose Karesh, mother of Marsha Stein Alice Weinstein, mother of Linda Silverman 21 Rabbi Machlouf Bitton, father of Denise Reback Harry Katzen, father of Marlene Morris Sylvia Cohen, grandmother of Jason Eichenholz 22 Beatrice Margot, mother of Philip Margot Arnold Butnick, father of Rhonda Scorzelli Fanny Dorfman, mother of Roberta Bernstein 23 Shirley Kaplan, mother of Robert Kaplan Max Kristel, father of Sandra Pearlman Phyllis Hecht, mother of Ava Martin 24 Bea Finkelstein, mother of Howard Finkelstein 25 Jeanette Lack, mother of Minna Alstein & Ilona Sheplan & grandmother of Derek Sheplan Joseph Pervin, father of Bernice Shapiro & grandfather of Susan Shapiro 26 Dustin Rose, son of Lynn & Ed Rose 27 Ruth Loeb, mother of Carol Francis 28 Meyer Handler, grandfather of Barbara Bernstein 30 Florence Olicker, mother of Jacqueline Levine 31 Louis Gelfand, father of Philip Gelfand Rochelle Mann, mother of Elyse Baclar Louis Wilensky, father of Ellis Wilensky

3 4

6 7

8 9

10 11 12

13 14 15 16

DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS
1 1 1 1 1 3 4 4 5 5 5 5 6 Danielle Allen Sharon Berger Rachael Henig Michael Rashy Shayna Rashy Elli June Stein Leslie Intro Dan Williams Jana Citrenbaum Jacob Green Sarah Myers Robert Rosenberg David Swerdlow 8 8 9 9 10 10 11 11 11 12 13 13 13 Alan Henig Eric Kaltbaum Gloria Padawar Suzanne Weinstein Andrew LoMedico Julie Stockton Margot Baron Michelle Hartog Dr. Fred Pearl David Bernstein Jackie Levine Harry Lipkind Denise Reback 14 14 14 15 15 16 17 17 17 17 17 17 18 Melissa Abrams Rachel Shapiro Rich Ulch Paul Karlinsky Robin Mackler Nicholas Abrudescu Adam Alstein Hannah Alstein Lisa Herwitz Logan Intro Mark Lichtenstein Erik Woodruff Lillian Tobias
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21 23 24 24 25 25 25 26 27 27 27 27

Kristine Klein Taylor Harris Bethanie Mendel Lindsay Williams Daniel Kaprow Amy Meier Pearl Seidler Frances Brown Brian Harris Trevor Hartog Isaac Lewis Harriet Margot

28 28 28 29 29 30 30 30 30

Manny Martin Sofia Poliak Jack Sousa Marilyn Miller Jerrod Zlatkiss Nancy Berman Jeff Gruska Seth Reichelson Wil Robbins

OPPORTUNITIES FOR GIVING

Our tradition teaches us the importance of tz'daka. What a wonderful and lasting way to commemorate a birthday, anniversary, yahrtzeit, recovery from illness or hardship, Bat or Bar Mitzva, wedding, new baby or other occasion! Or give just because... ! We maintain various funds, donations to which are used to support our many activities and to make Beth Am the Synagogue we want it to be. Please show that you care make a contribution to the fund of your choice. All contributions are tax deductible.

SUPPORTERS OF BETH AM
ONEG/KIDDUSH SPONSORS
Ed & Lynn Rose, in celebration of Tollefson Baby Naming The Parents of the 6th Grade Class, in honor of their children as they enter the Mitzva Program Dr. Marshall & Sandra Pearlman, for Adult Education Program Jerrod & Linda Zlatkiss, In memory of father Isadore Landau

"DOR-TO-DOR" (GENERATION-TO-GENERATION) CAMPAIGN TO FUND SCHOOL ADDITION

Matt & Kris Klein Jon & Gail Lewis

Jon & Cynthia Caplan, for Lucas Caplans 6th grade Siddur Service Alisa & Justin Zinovoy, in celebration of Misha Tollefsons 1st birthday

PRAYER BOOKS

HIGH HOLY DAY APPEAL

We thank each of you who responded to our High Holy Days Appeal. We appreciate your participation, generosity and support. Nicholas Abrudescu & Nancy Brown Gitty Adler Greg Alman Alan & Arlene Applebaum Myron & Allyson Ascher Michael & Roxanne Baron Charles & Roberta Bernstein Rob & Dana Bial Ken & Wendy Bowman Frank & Sherril Bracco Fred & Frances Brown Phil & Louise Brown Michael & Lauri Cayado Mike & Joanna Cohen Jeff Cohen & Luci Belnick Alan & Sheri Kaplan-Cohn Kevin & Robyn Colley Jason & Robyn Eichenholz Jerry & Sima Feldberg Craig & Lisa Fishman Eva Gaber Rick & Donna Gardner Phil & Fran Gelfand Marvin Goldstein Mike & Becky Goldstein Hank & Norma Greenberg Mike & Sandi Groberg Jeff Grushka & Andrea Behn Millie Harris Lori Helman Josh & Rebecca Katz Matt & Kristi Klein Steve & Mary Kutner Miles & Kate Landis Norm & Marlene Levin Stan & Jackie Levine Mark & Jackie Lichtenstein Harry & Karen Lipkind Manny & Ava Martin Sherman & Marilyn Miller Lester & Marlene Morris Barry Nager Thom & Beth Oxborough Joe & Glo Padawer Marty & Kristin Pupko Dan & Kris Rashy Seth & Debbie Reichelson Jim & Jill Riola Seth & Jessica Rosenblatt Mark & Susan Schulman Jim & Rhonda Scorzelli Steve & Lucy Seidler Bernice Shapiro Sam & Rachel Shapiro Marc & Nancy Sharfman Marc & Diane Siegel
Elaine Silver & Michael Baron Neal & Bernadette Silverstein

ALEX GELFAND DELIALLISI MEMORIAL FUND

Fran & Phil Gelfand, thank you to Rabbi Rick for his kindness Heddy & Michael Bernstein, in memory of Harold Levin Kail & Faith Brotman, in memory of father Samuel Brotman Jon Caplan, in memory of father Howard Caplan Joe & Bernice Davids, in memory of brother Marvin Kornick Mark & Debbie Davids, In memory of mother Natalie Feld Helene Gold, in memory of mother Pearl Levy and In memory of husband Meyer Gold Hank & Norma Greenberg, for Adult Education Program Sherman Miller, in memory of mother Leah Miller Lester & Marlene Morris, in memory of Harold Levin Rich & Ruth Rubin, in memory of Harold Levin Elly Soski, in memory of Harold Levin Lillian Tobias, in memory of grandson, Chad F. Vignola Lloyd & June Werk, in memory of father Bernard Adler Lon & Joy Winter, wishing a Happy Birthday to Judy Winter Dombrow & Happy 30th Birthday to Jessica Winter Stafford & Happy Birthday to Sherill Bracco Mae Weisman, in memory of mother Lena Levine, in memory of father Louis Levine & in memory of sister Sylvia Beckerman Sherwood Weisman, in memory of mother Gussie Weisman Norman Wofsy, with thanks to Rabbi Rick for a beautiful Rosh Hashana Service

GENERAL FUND

Fred & Frances Brown, in memory of mother Bernice Bunny Grimm

EDUCATION FUND

Moishe & Ruth Sniad Sherwin & Barbara Sokolov Ken & Ellen Solomon Elly Soski Marty & Marsha Stein Lillian Tobias Eric & Suzanne Weinstein Sherwood & Susan Weisman Herb & Shelley Weissman Dan & Sherry Williams Anne Zahary Justin & Alisa Zinovoy Jerrod & Linda Zlatkiss

RABBI'S DISCRETIONARY FUND

Hank & Norma Greenberg, In honor of Dan Williams & Debbie Zelkowitz receiving Simchat Torah honors

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CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2012 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

PRESIDENT STEVE LEIBOWITZ IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT JIM RIOLA PRESIDENT-ELECT DEBBIE DAVIDS VICE PRESIDENT FOR RELIGIOUS ACTIVITIES GREG ALMAN VICE PRESIDENT FOR EDUCATION RACHEL SHAPIRO SECRETARY ROBYN COLLEY TREASURER SIMON MENDEL DIRECTOR HERB WEISSMAN DIRECTOR DAN WILLIAMS DIRECTOR PAULA HORNE
INSTALLATION OF THE 2012 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Come join us on Saturday, January 14, 2012 for Shabbat Services and the installation of the newly elected CBA Board of Directors. Meet the Board and hear what the plans for Beth Am are for 2012.

CONGREGATION BETH AM DIRECTORY

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ALL PRINT ADS HAVE A COMPANION BULLETIN-SIZE AD ON OUR WEBSITE

THE MIRACLE OF HANUKA

Approximately 500 years after the story of the Maccabees re-dedicating the Temple with an eight-day holiday, the Rabbis of the Talmud re-examined the message of Hanuka. Instead of emphasizing a military battle to keep Judaism alive, they spoke of miracles and faith in God. The Rabbis created a story about the Maccabees finding a small vial of oil for the Temple lamp, containing enough to last only one day. According to the legend, eight days later the menorah still burned! In recounting this miracle, the Rabbis thus lift Hanuka from its historical context. More than a commemoration of victory in war, Hanuka now celebrates faith in God. What is the miracle of Hanuka? Not the oil burning for eight days, but

? ? ?

the victory of the few against the many. the willingness of a small group to take a stand for their convictions. when the wider society did not care to listen.

the fact that a fire was lit when there was no reason to believe that it would continue to burn. The Hebrew word for miracle is NES which also means a banner or a sign. As we celebrate the NISIM (miracles) of Hanuka, we should think of a miracle not as something that defies the expectations of nature, but rather as an event in our experience that stands as a sign - a turning point (real or potential) in our lives today.

MEANINGFUL GIFTS FOR HANUKA

Those looking to give something special to friends and family for Hanuka might want to consider sponsoring a Siddur, Mahzor or Humash. Each volume will carry a personalized bookplate with a personal acknowledgment to both the giver and the one who is being honored (or to the family of the one being remembered). -- A Minyan of Comfort ($25): The volume we use at Shiva Minyanim, with contemporary readings and poems woven into the Traditional text of comfort. -- Mahzor Hadash ($36): The High Holy Day volume with its contemporary prayers and readings in a gender-neutral text. -- Siddur Hadash ($36): The order of prayers for Shabbat and Festival Mornings with easy-on-the-eye Hebrew, modern translations and extensive transliterations. -- The Etz Hayim Humash ($72): The finest presentation of Torah text and Haftarot, with a modern translation and with both classical and contemporary commentary reflecting Conservative Masorti ideology. Alternatively, it would be a great gift to place a leaf on the Tree of Life display in the lobby in honor/ memory of a friend or member of the family, or to commemorate a celebration of life; e.g., birth, anniversary, special birthday, Bat/Bat Mitzva, etc. ($72)

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We encourage you to support our advertisers who support us with their ads in the Bulletin, Membership Directory and on our web site

Randy Ames CRS, GRI

Realtor

Watson Realty Corp.

407-622-8503
Randy@RandyAmesHomes.com
www.RandyAmes.WatsonRealtyCorp.com

Full service butcher shop Fresh cut meat and poultry Prepared kosher foods of all kinds
Mon: 9 - 3 Tues - Thur: 9 - 5 Fri: 9 - 4 Sun: 9 - 1 Under supervision of the Vaad Hakashrut of Pinellas County

Randy "Ames" for RESULTS

727.321.3847
Fax: 727.327.0682 2619 23rd Avenue N St. Petersburg FL 33713

Lucille Belnick, M.D., P.A.

Internal Medicine and Women's Health
email: TitosPlumbing@aol.com

Providing modern medical care with an old-fashioned touch

Located in Casselberry/Winter Park area 5474 Lake Howell Road Winter Park, FL 32792

Currently accepting new patients

www.DeGusipeFuneralHome.com
EMAIL:

Phone: (407) 679-3400 Fax: (407) 679-3412 E-mail: LBelnickMD@gmail.com

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TO D D @ D E G U S I P E . C O M

N ONPROFIT O RG US P OSTAGE P AID M ID -FL, FL

Custom Painting By
Richard Rubin
Celebrating 32 Years in Business!
Free Estimates ? Excellent Local References Interior ? Exterior Commercial ? Residential Exterior Pressure Cleaning
MEMBER CENTRAL FLORIDA

P.O. Box 915756 Longwood, FL 32791-5756

Vol. 36, No. 11

P ERMIT N O. 794

CURRENT RESIDENT OR

GWEN D. BLOOM, P.A.

Estate Planning Wills and Trusts Probate and Trust Administration GWEN D. B LOOM Attorney At Law
1180 Spring Centre South Blvd. Suite 310 Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 Tel: 407-682 -3390 Fax: 407 -682-3185 www.gwenbloomlaw.com The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience. Admitted to Practice in Florida (1991) Admitted in Massachusetts (1981) Member: Central Florida Estate Planning Council, Florida Bar Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Section and Orange County Bar

Transfer Tax Planning Business Law Real Property Transactions

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