From the desk of Dan Swartz - Archived

Happy February, Religious School Families, 

Thank you to everyone who came last week to the Family Tefilah Experience for our Kindergarteners through 3rd graders. Rabbi, Cantor, and I had a great time and look forward to seeing you again on February 11th. 

This week we will kick off our SOUPER BOWL fundraiser with ALIVE!.  Starting this Sunday, February 4, buy some cans of protein-rich soup and leave them in the lobby box of your Super Bowl pick (look for the Chiefs or 49ers helmet). Bring your team some luck and help feed Alexandria’s hungry through Beth El's partnership with ALIVE! (and don't forget to check out their Empty Bowls Alexandria fundraiser on March 1!). The table is set up, ready for your donations as you walk into the building.

Another busy week is coming up for religious school.
1. Bagel and Donut Bar (Now located in the lobby outside the sanctuary) will be back to pre-ambulance fundraiser options:

• Bagel and Cream Cheese/Butter - $3
• Donuts - $2
• Hot Chocolate $1
• Coffee and Tea available for free

2. 6th Grade and 2nd Grade will be in the Social Hall this week for their classes
3. Parents are invited to one of two focus groups to provide feedback on planning for next year.  

• 10:30 - 11:30 for families of 4th to 7th graders
• 12:30 - 1:30 for families of 8th graders and above

4. Kindergarten and 1st grade families are invited to participate in a special post-Tu B’shvat Acorn Planting after religious school on Sunday. 
Please register here: tinyurl.com/acorn24

Looking forward to seeing everyone on Sunday!

Dan

                                                Additional Updates:
Upcoming Events:

February 3rd:

• Tot Shabbat (11:00am)​​​​​​​

February 4th:

• Religious School (K-7th Grade)
• Netzer/Confirmation (8th Grade +)
• K/1st Acorn Planting in Chapel in the Woods 
• RSY Focus Group (4th-7th Grade) 10:30-11:30
• RSY Focus Group (8th+) 12:30-1:30

• 7th Grade Student Led Services 7pm ​​​​​​​

February 10th: 

• Tot Shabbat 11:00am

February 11th:

• Family T’filah for K-3rd Grade (10:00-10:30)
• Religious School (K-7th Grade)
• RSY Focus Group (All Grades) 10:30-11:30 (PLEASE NOTE THE UPDATED TIME)

Key Links for Families: 

Canteen Meal Coupons (6 meals for $40)
Hebrew Recordings for Student Practice
Previous Weekly Updates

Thinking about a URJ camp for this summer?

One Happy Camper:  The Foundation for Jewish Camp’s Camp Finder tool makes it easy to find the perfect camp. With over 150 different camps to choose from, you’ll have no trouble finding a Jewish camp for your child.

First-time camper? Your child may be eligible for $1,000 off with One Happy Camper! Get the details at OneHappyCamper.org, or contact Emma Dorsch at emma.dorsch@shalomdc.org .

Jewish teens today are struggling with how to engage in conversation about the Israel-Hamas war.
 
We're bringing the successful program we hosted in Bethesda earlier this month to the Pozez JCC of Northern Virginia on Sunday, February 4th at 6 P.M. (PLEASE NOTE THE NEW DATE)
 
Open to all 9th-12th graders, this program provides an opportunity for high schoolers to understand the historical context of the war and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, gain the knowledge to address common questions and walk away with the ability to confront disinformation. 
 
Dinner will be served (dietary laws observed).

Register by February 2nd. REGISTER HERE

WRJ Needs Bakers!

Not always sure what to do with your time on Sunday mornings and enjoy baking? Ever wanted to make hamantaschen but didn't know how? WRJ invites you to join us in the kitchen on Sunday mornings as we produce 2400 homemade hamantaschen for the mishloach manot boxes for the holiday of Purim.

We need bakers and “dough”nators for each of our baking sessions. (Training provided)  Attached is the recipe and instructions on how to sign up through SignUp Genius (preferred): https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0448A8AC28A64-46660569-wrjhamantaschen#/ 

Baking dates currently scheduled from 9:30am to 1:30pm or until we run out of dough/filling for the day: Feb 4, 11, 25,& Mar 3

ReelAbilities Film Festival Movie & Discussion Event: OKAY! (THE ASD BAND)

Beth El’s Disability Inclusion Committee is excited to present the award-winning documentary, OKAY! (The ASD Band Film), as part of the 11th Annual ReelAbilities Film Festival: Northern Virginia, which is managed by the Pozez JCC. This film was an audience favorite at ReelAbilities Film Festivals across the U.S. and Canada.
 
When:     Sunday, February 4 at 4 pm

Where:    Beth El's Social Hall

Synopsis: Four talented autistic musicians come together through their shared love of music and form the ASD Band. Rawan, Jackson, Spenser, and Ron shatter stereotypes about people with autism spectrum disorder and navigate a world where they are often misunderstood. As they write, record, and perform their first album, they find strength in each other and the music.  
Immediately after the film, our featured guest, Melissa Heifetz, the Executive Director of the Arc of Northern VA, will lead our discussion and Q & A.

PLEASE RSVP for this free event on the Beth El website . 

January 25, 2024

Happy Thursday, Religious School Families,

I just got back from the ARJE Conference, and I am excited to see everyone on Sunday.  We have a jam packed Weekend of activity here at Beth El.  

1. Beth El Hebrew Congregation in collaboration with the Pozez ELEC is hosting a Pajama Havdalah on Saturday, January 27th at the Synogague.  At 5:15 we welcome you to bring an indoor picnic lunch followed by crafts, songs, and stories.  Please register at tinyurl.com/BEHC-PJS .
2. Families of Kindergarten to 3rd Grade will begin religious school together in the sanctuary on Sunday for a special Family Tefilah Experience at 10:00.  We anticipate this running approximately 30 minutes.  We welcome you to sit together as a family in the pews or have children sit in the front on the floor.  
3. Following the Family Tefilah Experience, we invite parents and guardians to participate in the first of our Focus groups to prepare for the 24-25. This is an opportunity to provide feedback on the year as we begin planning for the future.   Please let me know if you have any questions. 

Have a wonderful rest of your week and an early Shabbat Shalom,
Dan

                                                Additional Updates:
Upcoming Events:

January 28th:

• Family T’filah for K-3rd Grade (10:00-10:30)
• Religious School (K-7th Grade)
• RSY Focus Group (K-3rd) 10:30-11:00
• ​​​​​​​No Netzer
• Confirmation Meets from 12:30 to 1:45

January 31st: 

• Religious School (4th to 7th)
• Purim Spiel Auditions (5:30-8:00)

February 3rd:

• Tot Shabbat (11:00am)
• WRJ Teddy Bear Tea ( Register Here ) 

February 4th:

• Religious School (K-7th Grade)
• Netzer/Confirmation (8th Grade +)
• K/1st Acorn Planting in Chapel in the Woods 
• RSY Focus Group (4th-7th Grade) 10:30-11:30
• RSY Focus Group (8th+) 12:30-1:30

• 7th Grade Student Led Services 7pm ​​​​​​​

February 10th: 

• Tot Shabbat 11:00am

February 11th:

• Family T’filah for K-3rd Grade (10:00-10:30)
• Religious School (K-7th Grade)
• RSY Focus Group (All Grades) 10:30-11:30

Canteen Coupons are HERE!
We are selling Canteen Coupons to families of 4th grade and up to use for meals on Wednesdays and Sundays at Canteen.  These coupons will be sold in packs of 6 for $40 (You get 6 meals for the price of 5!). To participate go to: https://www.bethelhebrew.org/form/canteencoupon 
1. Purchase your 6-pack of coupons
2. Expect delivery to your child at religious school
3. Cut out the Coupon
4. Redeem for Pizza, Snack, & a Drink

Canteen Coupons will be available for purchase in the office on Sunday Mornings.  Please see Ronit  to purchase.

Purim Spiel Auditions
It may be cold, but spring is just around the corner. And with spring comes PURIM!!!
Beth El is looking for actors, singers, musicians and backstage support for this year's Purim Spiel!!! Sign up today at tinyurl.com/spiel2024  
Can't make it for an in person audition, send us your audition via email (bolicked@gmail.com)

Thinking about a URJ camp for this summer?

One Happy Camper: Celebrate Tu B’Shvat (Birthday of the Trees) this week by sending your community’s teens and youth to a place where they can get their hands dirty! At Jewish overnight camp, they will celebrate the joy of nature every day. Whether they’re practicing diving skills, sharing stories around a campfire, or hiking through the hills, your camper will return home with a reinforced sense of wonder about the world around them (and some really cool new skills.) Plant the seeds for an amazing summer. Visit this page to learn more and apply. Eligible families qualify for up to $1,000!

The Foundation for Jewish Camp’s Camp Finder tool makes it easy to find the perfect camp. With over 150 different camps to choose from, you’ll have no trouble finding a Jewish camp for your child.

First-time camper? Your child may be eligible for $1,000 off with One Happy Camper! Get the details at OneHappyCamper.org, or contact Emma Dorsch at emma.dorsch@shalomdc.org.

Kindergarten and First Grade Acorn Planting - Register: tinyurl.com/acorn24

Jewish teens today are struggling with how to engage in conversation about the Israel-Hamas war.
 
We're bringing the successful program we hosted in Bethesda earlier this month to the Pozez JCC of Northern Virginia on Sunday, February 4th at 6 P.M. (PLEASE NOTE THE NEW DATE)
 
Open to all 9th-12th graders, this program provides an opportunity for high schoolers to understand the historical context of the war and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, gain the knowledge to address common questions and walk away with the ability to confront disinformation. 
 
 Dinner will be served (dietary laws observed).
Register by February 2nd. Click HERE

January 19, 2024

Snowy Shabbat Shalom Greetings to all the Religious School Families,

I hope you are staying warm, but also finding time to play in the beautiful white fluff on the ground!  Yes, being from the midwest, I love a good snow every now and then.

After a wonderful Yom Tzedek last week, this week will seem pretty low key.  Please know that I will not be at Religious School Sunday and Wednesday as I will be at the Association of Reform Jewish Educators (ARJE) Conference.  I look forward to returning and sharing all that I learn from my colleagues across the country. 

There are two important informational items on which I want to keep in the front of your minds:

1. Kindergarten through 3rd Grade Family Tefilah Experience (January 28th & February 11th from 10:00 to 10:30am):  We are going to try something new during January and February.  Changing up the typical start to the morning on Sundays for our youngest learners, we invite those families with Kindergarteners to 3rd graders to gather in the sanctuary, sit together, and begin the morning in prayer, together.  Rabbi, Cantor, and I have created a special interactive experience that we cannot wait to share with you.  Please be on time in order to experience it to the fullest extent possible.  
2. Focus groups to prepare for the 24-25 year will begin on January 28th: Please consider joining one of the 4 focus groups to provide feedback for planning for next year.  All meetings will take place in the Social Hall at Beth El at the times/dates below.  Please let me know if you have any questions. 

May we hear b'sorot tovot, good news,
Dan

                                                Additional Updates:
Upcoming Events:

January 21st:

• Religious School (K-7th Grade)
• 2nd and 3rd Grade (Rescheduled from December 3rd) with Rabbi - 10am
• Netzer/Confirmation (8th Grade +)

January 24th: Religious School (4th to 7th)

January 28th:

• Family T’filah for K-3rd Grade (10:00-10:30)
• Religious School (K-7th Grade)
• RSY Focus Group (K-3rd) 10:30-11:00
• ​​​​​​​No Netzer
• Confirmation Meets from 12:30 to 1:45

January 31st: 

• Religious School (4th to 7th)
• Purim Spiel Auditions (5:30-8:00)

February 3rd:

• Tot Shabbat (11:00am)
• WRJ Teddy Bear Tea ( Register Here ) 

February 4th:

• Religious School (K-7th Grade)
• Netzer/Confirmation (8th Grade +)
• K/1st Acorn Planting in Chapel in the Woods 
• RSY Focus Group (4th-7th Grade) 10:30-11:30
• RSY Focus Group (8th+) 12:30-1:30​​​​​​​

February 11th:

• Family T’filah for K-3rd Grade (10:00-10:30)
• Religious School (K-7th Grade)
• RSY Focus Group (All Grades) 10:30-11:30

Family T’filah (Kindergarten to 3rd Grade)
In the new year, we are going to try something new for our youngest learners.  On January 28th and February 11th (from 10:00 to 10:30), families of Kindergarten through 3rd grade students are invited to join us for a special t’filah experience at the start of religious school.  We look forward to coming together in prayer and song with a participatory experience geared towards our youngest learners.  

Canteen Coupons are HERE!
We are selling Canteen Coupons to families of 4th grade and up to use for meals on Wednesdays and Sundays at Canteen.  These coupons will be sold in packs of 6 for $40 (You get 6 meals for the price of 5!). To participate go to: https://www.bethelhebrew.org/form/canteencoupon 
1. Purchase your 6-pack of coupons
2. Expect delivery to your child at religious school
3. Cut out the Coupon
4. Redeem for Pizza, Snack, & a Drink

Canteen Coupons will be available for purchase in the office on Sunday Mornings.  Please see Ronit  to purchase.

Beth El Hebrew Congregation Pajama Havdalah

Purim Spiel Auditions
It may be cold, but spring is just around the corner. And with spring comes PURIM!!!
Beth El is looking for actors, singers, musicians and backstage support for this year's Purim Spiel!!! Sign up today at tinyurl.com/spiel2024  
Can't make it for an in person audition, send us your audition via email (bolicked@gmail.com)

January 4, 2024

Shalom Religious School Families,

Happy 2024 to everyone.  I hope you and your families were able to find time to spent together over the past couple of weeks. 

We are back to our regular cadence of religious school on Wednesdays and Sundays for the next month.  Please review the dates below for special events.

Also, as we get into the winter months, I wanted to review our process for snow closures:

1. Decisions on whether to close for snow/ice will be made by 7:00am (Sundays) or 3:00pm (Wednesdays).
2. If we decide to close religious school, the following will take place:

• Email will be sent from ShulCloud to this email address.
• Message will be posted at the top of the Beth El Hebrew Congregation website.
• Teachers will also send a message to classes via email lists

                                                Additional Updates:
Upcoming Events:
January 7th: 

• Religious School (K-7th)
• ​​​​​​​Post B-nei Mitzvah Parents meeting with the Rabbi (8th grade and up)10:00am

January 10th:

• Religious School (4th to 7th)

January 12th:

• 5th Grade Student Led Services for MLK JR  Weekend

January 13th:

• Tot Shabbat (11am)

January 14th:

• Religious School (K to 7th)
• Family Program Yom Tzedek (Details to follow) - 10am to noon
• Shalom Chaverim (10:15 to 11:15)

January 17th:

• Religious School (4th to 7th)

January 21st: 

• Religious School (K-7th)
• 2nd and 3rd Grade (Rescheduled from December 3rd) with Rabbi - 10am​​​​​​​

• Religious School (K-7th Grade)

• Family T’filah Experience (K-3rd) 10:00 - 10:30 (NOTE THE NEW DATE!)​​​​​​​

January 24th:

• Religious School (4th to 7th)

• ​​​​​​​K/1st Acorn Planting in Chapel in the Woods (TBD - Details forthcoming)

Beth El Hebrew Congregation & Magen David Adom Ambulance Campaign
Beth El is raising money to purchase an ambulance to send to Israel.  The total cost of a new Mobile Intensive Care Unit (MICU) is $165,000.  Every little bit helps.  You can support this initiatives by:

• Sending your child with Tzedakah on Sundays and Wednesdays (All money collected for the year will support this project)
• Grab a sweet at our Beit Nosh on Sundays. 
• Give at our campaign website: https://www.bethelhebrew.org/ambulance-fundraiser.html
• Ask your employer to match donations (If your employer needs to give directly to Magen David Adom, please reach out for information.)
• ​​​​​​​Ask your employer to match donations (If your employer needs to give directly to Magen David Adom, please reach out for information.)​​​​​​​

Canteen Coupons are HERE!
We are selling Canteen Coupons to families of 4th grade and up to use for meals on Wednesdays and Sundays at Canteen.  These coupons will be sold in packs of 6 for $40 (You get 6 meals for the price of 5!). To participate go to: https://www.bethelhebrew.org/form/canteencoupon 
1. Purchase your 6-pack of coupons
2. Expect delivery to your child at religious school
3. Cut out the Coupon
4. Redeem for Pizza, Snack, & a Drink

Canteen Coupons will be available for purchase in the office on Sunday Mornings.  Please see Ronit Goldstein to purchase.

NFTY-MAR Winter Kallah Registration Extended to Friday, January 5th

The main links you need are these three:
NFTY-MAR Website: https://nfty.org/regions/mid-atlantic-region/
Live TEEN Registration Link: https://cvent.me/YeDP1d 

Scholarship Application for NFTY: https://urjyouth.wufoo.com/forms/mm4tlp0oovqn8/

Beth El Hebrew Congregation Pajama Havdalah

December 7, 2023

Good Morning, Religious School Families!
Tonight, we begin the celebration of Hanukkah. It is our family’s tradition to set aside one night as a night of giving.  In the past, we have brought cookies to the local fire department or collected food for our local pantry. 

This year, we have decided to change it up a bit.  After October 7th, everything changed.  We are more in tune to our friends in Israel, checking on them more regularly.  We (my wife and I) find ourselves answering more questions from our kids; about Israel, about how tough it is to be Jewish in America. For our giving this year, we will be participating in the Beth El Ambulance Campaign by saving money each night.  

In addition, we will be having a friendly competition between the kids and adults to see who can be caught-being-kind, throughout the 8 days of Hanukkah. Each time one is caught we will add a quarter to their respective jar.  Bragging rights for the year are on the line!

In the end, we will have a donation to the ambulance campaign from our family.  What’s best is that this money will be matched by a generous donation, making our impact DOUBLE!

I encourage all religious school families to find ways this Hanukkah to donate as well.  Whatever your family can do, it all adds up.  Especially now, where every dollar is doubled! Stop by the Magen David Adom Table on Friday night or Sunday morning to pick up an envelope to help with your family’s tzedakah project.

I hope you have a Hanukkah filled with family and light.  

May we hear b’sorot tovot*, good news.

Dan

                                                Additional Updates:
Upcoming Events:

• December 8th: 
• Hanukkah Dinner (5:30pm)
• Community Hanukkah Candle Lighting (6:30pm)
• 4th Grade Student Led Services with a Sufganiyot Oneg!
• Shabbat Shira (Immediately following services)

December 10th: 

• 7th Graders Baking for Beit Nosh benefiting the BEHC Ambulance Project @ 9:30am
• Religious School (K-7th)
• Rabbi Spinrad’s Reflections on His Recent Time in Israel (Please note: the scheduled 6th/7th grade coffee with the rabbi has been postponed)
• Netzer and Confirmation Hanukkah Party (12:30p)

December 13th:

• Religious School (4th to 7th)
• Special Hanukkah Program

December 17th: 

• 7th Graders Baking for Beit Nosh benefiting the BEHC Ambulance Project @ 9:30am
• Religious School (K-7th)
• 9th Night of Hanukkah Celebration - Register Here

Beth El Hebrew Congregation & Magen David Adom Ambulance Campaign
Beth El is raising money to purchase an ambulance to send to Israel.  The total cost of a new Mobile Intensive Care Unit (MICU) is $165,000.  Every little bit helps.  You can support this initiatives by:

• Sending your child with Tzedakah on Sundays and Wednesdays (All money collected for the year will support this project)
• Grab a sweet at our Beit Nosh on Sundays from now until the end of 2023. 
• Give at our campaign website: https://www.bethelhebrew.org/ambulance-fundraiser.html
• Ask your employer to match donations (If your employer needs to give directly to Magen David Adom, please reach out for information.)

Canteen Coupons are HERE!
We are selling Canteen Coupons to families of 4th grade and up to use for meals on Wednesdays and Sundays at Canteen.  These coupons will be sold in packs of 6 for $40 (You get 6 meals for the price of 5!). To participate go to: https://www.bethelhebrew.org/form/canteencoupon 
1. Purchase your 6-pack of coupons
2. Expect delivery to your child at religious school
3. Cut out the Coupon
4. Redeem for Pizza, Snack, & a Drink

Canteen Coupons will be available for purchase in the office on Sunday Mornings.  Please see Ronit Goldstein to purchase.

NFTY-MAR Winter Kallah Registration is OPEN!!!

The main links you may need are below:
NFTY-MAR Website: https://nfty.org/regions/mid-atlantic-region/
Live TEEN Registration Link: https://cvent.me/YeDP1d 
Scholarship Application for NFTY: https://urjyouth.wufoo.com/forms/mm4tlp0oovqn8/

Parent Coffee & Community
Join Rabbi Spinrand on a Sunday morning for an opportunity to connect with parents in your grade over coffee.  Fall/Winter dates are as follows:

• January 7: Post-B’nei Mitzvah Parents (8th Grade and Up)
• January 21: 2nd and 3rd Grade (Rescheduled from December 3rd) - 10:30am

Rabbi Spinrad’s Reflections on His Recent Time in Israel

Join Rabbi David Spinrad this Sunday at 10:00 AM as he shares reflections on his recent time in Israel on a Rabbinic Mission with The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington. Among his experiences, learn about conversations with Jacob Lew, the US Ambassador to Israel, author and teacher Yossi Klein HaLevi, encounters with survivors from the massacre at Kibbutz Nachal Oz, trauma specialists, doctors, IDF soldiers in Gaza, an ambulance driver who was among the first on the scene at the Nova Music Festival, as well as a first-hand description of the devastation at Kibbutz K’far Aza. This is a conversation for adults only.

Good Afternoon, 

Whether or not Thanksgiving is a major or minor holiday for your family, I hope you find time to spend with those you love in meaningful ways.  

As a reminder, we will not have regular religious school today, Wednesday, November 22nd or Sunday, November 26th. Religious school will resume on Wednesday, November 29th.

Dan

November 9th

Happy Thursday Religious School Parents!

We have a busy weekend here at Beth El as we get ready to officially kick off our Magen David Adom Ambulance Project.  As the war continues in Israel, our synagogue is partnering with MDA (Israel’s Red Cross) to purchase a new ambulance for their fleet.  As I shared last week, Fundraising has already started, but this weekend, we will officially kick off our fundraising.  I hope to see you at Friday Night Services and/or or our Religious School Kickoff, here are ways you ways you can participate this weekend:

• Shabbat Potluck Dinner & bring your Shabbat Candlesticks to participate in our Community Candle Lighting
• Shabbat Services will be led by our 6th grade students
• Lend your voice to our post-services, camp-style Shabbat Shira hosted by Cantor Kaufman and myself

Join us Sunday Morning:

• Special Beit Nosh (Cafe Nosh) will be open for donations to the BEHC Ambulance Project.  This week, Ronit’s Family and the office staff will be providing baked goods in place of our regular doughnut bar.  Make sure to come early, make a donation, and grab a special breakfast.  
• Join your child’s class at 11:30 in the sanctuary for a special kickoff assembly with Rabbi Spinrad, Cantor Kaufman, and myself.  We will learn more about the BEHC Ambulance Project and sing songs together.  (Families in Shalom Chaverim are welcome to attend as well.)
• Reminder: 4th and 5th grade parents are invited to join Rabbi Spinrad in the Social Hall from 10-11am for a parent coffee.  

I look forward to seeing everyone this weekend!  

Dan

ADDITIONAL UPDATES

Upcoming Events:

• 6th Grade Student Led Services, Community Candle Lighting, Potluck Dinner & Shabbat Shira

• ​​​​​​​Beit Nosh benefiting the BEHC Ambulance Project @ 9:30am
• Religious School (K-7th)
• Shalom Chaverim (3-5 year olds)
• 4th/5th Grade Parent Coffee with Rabbi Spinrad
• Netzer and Confirmation in session

• ​​​​​​​March for Israel (Bus available from Beth El - Registration)
• November 15th:  Religious School (4th-7th)
• November 18th:
• Tot Shabbat (11am)
• Wine Tasting at Negus (See Below)

• Beit Nosh benefiting the BEHC Ambulance Project @ 9:30am
• Religious School (K-7th)
• K/1st Parent Coffee with Rabbi Spinrad
• Netzer and Confirmation in session

Wine Tasting at Negus (for adults only): Negus is a new winery in Alexandria specializing in traditional Ethiopian Honey Wines.  The event will take place at the winery with snacks provided by the RSY team.  We hope you can join us, November 18th beginning at 7pm. 
Go to https://www.bethelhebrew.org/event/wine-tasting-.html    

Canteen Coupons are HERE!
Starting this week, we are selling Canteen Coupons to families of 4th grade and up to use for meals on Wednesdays and Sundays at Canteen.  These coupons will be sold in packs of 6 for $40 (You get 6 meals for the price of 5!). To participate go to: https://www.bethelhebrew.org/form/canteencoupon

1. Purchase your 6-pack of coupons
2. Expect delivery to your child at religious school
3. cut out the coupon
4. Redeem for Pizza, Snack and a Drink

Beginning in November, Canteen Coupons will be available for purchase in the office on Sunday Mornings.  Please see Ronit Goldstein to purchase.

Parent Coffee & Community
Join Rabbi Spinrand on a Sunday morning for an opportunity to connect with parents in your grade over coffee.  Fall/Winter dates are as follows:

• November 12: 4th and 5th Grade
• November 19: Kindergarten and 1st Grade
• December 3: 2nd and 3rd Grade
• December 10: 6th and 7th Grade

Dreidels & Drinks: A Spirited Paint Night presented by WRJ
Saturday, December 2, 2023 • 19 Kislev 5784
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), light refreshments, and Hanukkah music. Paint a Hanukkah dreidel still life guided by artist & teacher Greta Schorn. Registration is required. Space is limited - NO WALK INS.

The registration link is https:  bethelhebrew.org/event/drinking-with-dreidels.html
If you have questions about the event, please contact Joanne Rhodes.

October 27, 2023

Happy Friday Religious School Families,

One of the unsung heroes in our religious school is our Religious School and Youth Committee, known as RSY.  This group of dedicated synagogue members meet monthly and serve the students and families of the religious school.  

At one of our early meetings, the group suggested finding ways to build connections between the adult family members, focusing on our congregational values of mishpacha (family) & chesed (loving kindness).  Out of these conversations, the following events have been created:

1.Wine Tasting at Nigus (for adults only): Negus is a new winery in Alexandria specializing in traditional Ethiopian Honey Wines.  The event will take place at the winery with snacks provided by the RSY team.  We hope you can join us, November 18th beginning at 7pm. 
Go to https://www.bethelhebrew.org/event/wine-tasting-.html    

2. Spaghetti Dinner and Dessert Auction (fun for the whole family): This unique program will be in the spring of 2024.  While details are still being ironed out, we hope you will participate by baking one of your family’s special desserts for our Dessert Auction.  

Both of these events are not possible without volunteers.  If you would like to join RSY or support either of these events, please reach out to co-chairs Samantha Levine-Finely ( slevinefinley@gmail.com ) or Jesse Reisman
( me@jessereisman.com ) .
Have a wonderful rest of the week and I look forward to seeing everyone on Sunday!

Dan

ADDITIONAL UPDATES

Upcoming Events:

• October 28th: Tot Shabbat
• October 29th: Religious School (K-7th)
  
• October 29th: B’nei Mitzvah Meeting for 6th Grade Families (10:15am)
• October 29th: Netzer and Confirmation: BEFTY Mini Golf Outing (12:30 to ???)
• November 1st: Religious School (4th-7th)
• November 5th: No Religious School (K-Confirmation)
• November 10th: 6th Grade Student Led Services & Shabbat Shira
• November 11th: Shiru L’adonai: Family Friendly All Inclusive Shabbat Services: 
• November 12th: Religious School (K-7th)
• November 12th: Shalom Chaverim (3-5 year olds)
  

Canteen Coupons are HERE!
Starting this week, we are selling Canteen Coupons to families of 4th grade and up to use for meals on Wednesdays and Sundays at Canteen.  These coupons will be sold in packs of 6 for $40 (You get 6 meals for the price of 5!). To participate go to: https://www.bethelhebrew.org/form/canteencoupon

1. Purchase your 6-pack of coupons
2. Expect delivery to your child at religious school
3. cut out the coupon
4. Redeem for Pizza, Snack and a Drink

Beginning in November, Canteen Coupons will be available for purchase in the office on Sunday Mornings.  Please see Ronit Goldstein to purchase.

October 12, 2023


Good Afternoon Religious School Families,

Rabbi, Cantor, Liz, and I would be remiss to not share that many Jewish organizations and public schools are encouraging children to stay off platforms such as Tik Tok, Instagram, and YouTube.  Even going as far as sharing that these apps should be deleted all together. 

On Tuesday, I shared with you a warning about social media and our kids.  As a synagogue, as an educator, and most importantly as a parent, I am strongly encouraging families to take a hard look at their children’s social media access and usage.

We have already witnessed Hamas’s psychological warfare through the use of it’s social media channels.  In addition, the events have caused a world-wide spike in online hate speech targeted towards Jews.  According to an article on USA Today, “The ADL counted 347 messages on Telegram from extremists calling for violence against Jews, Israelis and Zionists in the first 18 hours of Saturday, up approximately 488% from the day before.”

Ultimately, these decisions are family ones. It is compounded because we know that many of our children use these platforms to connect with each other, potentially about how they are dealing with these tragic days.  I can tell you that yesterday, when our 6th and 7th graders were polled about whether they knew about what was going on in Israel,  no less than 90% of our students raised their hands. Our kids already know.

Finally, I have fielded many emails already, and I am sure will continue to do so, about the nuances that families are struggling with when deciding what and when to talk to their own kids about the war in Israel.  To support families, we will be offering a Family (Adult) Affinity Space on Sunday morning at 10:00am.  This space is designed to connect parents struggling with some of the same questions, serve as a place for you to connect Rabbi & myself, and most importantly, to be with each other.  So, grab a bagel, doughnut, or coffee at the BEHC Bagel Bar and join us for this open conversation.  

As always, if you have questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out.  

​​​​​​​Dan

ADDITIONAL UPDATES


Upcoming Events:

• October 14th: Tot Shabbat: Noah’s Ark
• October 15th: Religious School (K-7th)
• October 15th: Netzer (12:30 - 1:45)
• October 15th: Confirmation (arrive at Beth El at 10:45 to travel to the Ropes Course)
• October 18th: Religious School (4th-7th)
• October 21st: Blessing of the Pets
• October 22nd: Religious School (K-7th Grade)
• October 22nd: No Netzer Program/Confirmation at Beth El (12:30 to 1:45)
• October 25th: Religious School (4th-7th)
• October 29th: Religious School (K-7th)
• October 29th: B’nei Mitzvah Meeting for 6th Grade Families (10:15am)
• October 29th: Netzer and Confirmation: BEFTY Mini Golf Outing (12:30 to ???)

Teen Affinity Space: Processing the past week in Israel 
Prior to Services, teens of all ages, regardless of whether they’re registered for Netzer or Confirmation are invited to gather to process the events of the last week with each other. Teachers from Netzer and Confirmation, along with our BEFTY advisor will join with Rabbi Spinrad in an open discussion. 
Programming starts at 6pm with dinner (Israeli faire will be served)  and check-in.  Teens are then invited to attend Shabbat services together, which is followed by a special camp-style Shabbat Song Session. 
RSVP requested for food ordering purposes to Dan Swartz, dswartz@bethelhebrew.org
 

Shabbat Shira for Israel Solidarity (All Ages)
As we support each other through these difficult times, Cantor Jason and I will be hosting a special Shabbat Shira following Friday Night Services.  This is a time to be together, singing and listening to songs for Israel & Peace. 
Services begin at 7pm and will be led by our 7th grade students. 

September 28, 2023

Happy Thursday Religious School Families,
We are halfway through the fall holiday season.  I hope you and your family had a joyous Rosh Hashanah and a meaningful fast on Yom Kippur.  This week we are back to religious school on Sundays! I can’t wait to see all the Kindergarten through 3rd grade students back in the building!

This Sunday is a busy day at Beth El:

• 9:30 - Bagel & Doughnut Bar is back!
• 10:00 - Religious School for K-7th Graders
           10:15 T’Filah with Cantor Jason for Kindergarten and 1st Graders
           11:30 T’Filah with Cantor Jason for 2nd and 3rd Graders
• 10:00 Confirmation Students Invited to Rabbi Spinrad’s Sukkah
• 10:15 - Shalom Chaverim for 3 to 5 year olds in Room 221
• 12:00 - Religious School Dismissal (K-7th Grade)
• 12:15 - Canteen for 8th grade and up ($8 for Pizza, Snack, & Drink)
• 12:30 - Netzer 
• 12:30 - Netzer, Confirmation, and BEFTY Family Orientation in Sanctuary

Finally, I hope to see everyone throughout the next two weeks at one of our amazing family experiences to celebrate Sukkot and Simchat Torah:

• Celebrate Sukkot and Consecration on Friday, September 29th, beginning at 6pm for a music filled service and listen to the interactive story, Why Does it Always Rain on Sukkot. Registration for dinner is free, but rsvp is requested for planning purposes.  Please go to: https://www.bethelhebrew.org/event/consecration2.html
  
  
  
• Celebrate Simchat Torah with Religious School on Sunday, October 8th. This will all be our 2nd Yamei Midot, Yom Messorah (Tradition).  Beginning at 11:00am, families are invited to join their students in the sanctuary for a special program where we unroll the Torah scrolls around the room.  There will be singing, dancing and have a Torah parade leading right into the congregational Simchat Torah Block Party. (Note: in order for students to stay at the block party, parents must be present.)
  
  Looking forward to seeing everyone on Sunday!
  Dan
  
  

ADDITIONAL UPDATES

Upcoming Events:
September 27th: Religious School (4th to 7th Grade)
September 29th: Sukkot & Consecration (6pm)
September 30th: BEFTY Sukkah & S’mores
October 1st: Religious School (K-7th Grade)
October 1st: Netzer/Confirmation Begins (Family Informational at 12:30)
October 4th: Religious School (4th to 7th Grade)
October 8th: Yom Messorah (11am Parents invited to a Simchat Torah Celebrations with their children)
October 13th: 7th Grade Led Shabbat Services
October 21st: Blessing of the Pets

Netzer, Confirmation, BEFTY…Oh My!
Families of students in 8th to 12th grade. I would like to invite you to an informational on October 1st at 12:30.  We will review the Netzer and Confirmation Calendar and discuss the opportunities for your child to participate in BEFTY, the Beth El chapter of NFTY MAR.  

Wednesday Night Canteen Needs YOU!
At Beth El Hebrew Congregation, we provide a unique opportunity for our 4th to 7th grade students to create connections each week by having dinner together.  In order for us to continue this tradition, we need your support.  Each Wednesday, we are looking for 2 adult volunteers to support canteen by helping serve/collect money.  If you are able to support, please sign up here: 
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0848ABAA2CA4F8C70-44483719-wednesday 

Shalom Chaverim: Taste of Religious School (STARTS OCTOBER 1st!)
Families of children 3-5  years old are invited to join us for our once a month pre-kindergarten program, Shalom Chaverim.  Join us from 10:15 to 11:15 at Beth El on the dates below.  Come early to enjoy a treat at our Bagel and Donut Bar followed by a taste of religious school.  To register, please go to the Beth El Hebrew Congregation Website or click here.  (Registration is free but requested for planning purposes) For additional information, please contact Dan, dswartz@bethelhebrew.org.