june 2014 tekiah

Congregation Beth Torah Monthly Newsletter

ReMarksRabbi Mark H. Levin

(Continued on page 2)

June 2014 • Issue 279•Sivan/Tamuz 5774

June 2014

In early 1988 about two dozen families decided it would be best if I would remain to serve the Jewish population of greater Kansas City, and offered me the position of rabbi

at a new congregation in southern Johnson County. I had been offered the senior rabbi position at a 2,300 family congregation in another city, and had to decide between the two congregations. My rabbi and advisor, Eugene Lipman, of Temple Sinai in Washington, D.C. told me there is only one rabbi to be in a congregation: the first. I decided to attempt to make a difference in American Jewry by leading a start-up congregation with a new vision rather than redirecting a renowned institution.

We started in July with around two dozen families. But, in September when Harold Sader called the first congregational meeting, over 100 families with 70 children in the religious school had signed up. By Yom Kippur, 600 people attended worship at a rented meeting hall in a hotel, and we were off and running. As Carol Sader commented looking at the crowd, “Poof: instant congregation!”

Rabbis receive most of the public credit for the success of American congregations. It’s been my privilege to serve these last 26 years, while the hard work and initiatives of others have most often been publicly credited to me. However, Beth Torah’s success is undoubtedly a result of the interactive, combined efforts and creativity of so many people. Our education program was initiated by a volunteer, Cheryl Harris, followed by our first professional educator, Steve Burnstein (now Rabbi Steve Burnstein) as we grew to several hundred families and students. Rabbi Vered Harris designed and ran our school and then program life for nearly half the life of Beth Torah, and certainly had an enormous influence on the development of our community, which continues to this day. The accreditation of the Weiner Religious School is according to her design. Years ago Cantor Barbara Finn set in place the foundational structure for our music program, and that was further developed and enhanced by Linda Sweenie. Rabbi Harris designed and oversaw our educational and youth programs, but for the last 17 years Marcia Rittmaster made sure those programs ran, created much of the youth program,

The Blessings of Change: On Sunday, June 1st at 4:00 p.m., we will be dedicating our Torah scroll that we have been writing this year, and Rabbi Mark Levin will be

honored on the occasion of his retirement and transition to his new Founding Rabbi role at Congregation Beth Torah. Look for more information on what will be an amazing event on our Website and in your mailbox.

Pick Your Route! 10, 25, 40 or 62 mile ride through southern Johnson County with on-route support, SAG stations &

after party featuring awards for Joel’s Ride Homebrew Beer Competition - kcbiermeisters.org/joelsride

* 8:00 a.m. – 40 & 62 mile ride begins / 9:00 a.m. – 10 & 25 mile ride begins

Our event supports community organizations providing services to feed the hungry.

Register online at www.prerace.comKeyword: Joelsride

Visit us on Facebook @ Joel’s Ride “Wheels for Meals”Follow us on Twitter: JoelsRide

Sunday, June 8, 20148:00 or 9:00 a.m.*RE

GIST

ER N

OW!

Join your community for Rabbi Rick Shapiro’s First Shabbat at Beth Torah on Friday, July 4th

www.beth-torah.org |

Torah Portion & Haftarah

June 3/4 7 Sivan ShavuotExod. 19:1-8, 20:1-14Haftarah – Isaiah 42:1-12The Book of Ruth is Read

June 6/7 9 Sivan B’haalot’chaNum. 8:1-12:16Haftarah Zecharia 2:14-4:7

June 13/14 16 Sivan S’lach L’chaNum. 13:1-15:41Haftarah – Joshua 2:1-24

June 20/21 23 Sivan KorachNum. 16:1-18:32Haftarah – I Samuel 11:14-12:22

June 27/28 30 Sivan ChukatNum. 19:1-22:1 Haftarah Judges 11:1-33

Worshipand was liaison to parents and teachers. Laura Intfen welcomed our new members and invented much of our volunteer structure. Denise Pakula, Bill Solomon, Jeanne Kort Adler and Jack Feldman provided our administration, and Jeanne worked diligently on our caring community, followed by Laura. The elected presidents of Beth Torah, from Hal Sader to our current and incoming presidents, Michelle Cole and Linda Zappulla, have indelibly left their creative marks on our congregation; while our Boards and committee chairpeople have week to week and month to month accepted the responsibility for the fiscal and program life of our sacred community.

It has been my privilege to set the direction of this congregation for a quarter of a century. I will admit to many errors. I am, after all, as human as the next person. But you have afforded me the opportunity to be involved in the intimate thoughts and actions of hundreds of Jewish families struggling with daily existence and the meaning of a modern American Judaism in their day to day existence, their most meaningful life cycle events, and in the crises they face for better or worse. It has been my desire and commitment to design a congregation to enhance and bless the life of the Jewish people, and to provide a model for creative Judaism: social justice, worship and study, for the 21st century. Whether we have succeeded or failed only you can judge. But we have attempted to develop and innovate a Judaism for the needs of the Jewish people today, in a pluralistic world.

I look forward to working with Rabbi Rick Shapiro and to welcoming Emily Tummons, as well as Laura Intfen and Aaron Nielsenshultz in their new roles. Rabbi Rebecca Reice has been doing incredible work; and we could not be Beth Torah without those who work in support of all we do: Robin O’Bryan, Barbara Kitt, and Sharon Altman. Our new music program has been designed by Judith Benson, and we would not be where we are without her overwhelmingly helpful efforts. I believe that Beth Torah is destined to move from strength to strength, and look forward to worshiping and participating in our renewed community.

I will continue, God willing, to work with families in some of their most beautiful, painful and caring times. But the vision of the future will come from the next generation of Jews who seek a serious yet modern Judaism in their lives. I have attempted to enable a community to live up to the ideals and future of the Jewish people, with respect for the past, but always with an eye on the meaning of community that will face us tomorrow. God bless you as you continue with this sacred task.

Kabbalah ShabbatJoin the Kabbalat Shabbat Study Group on Friday, June 20th, at 5:30 p.m. in the Sader/Shimkin Library Chapel for a moving and personal way to welcome Shabbat. We’ll examine readings, recite poetry, explore guided meditations, sing songs, or light candles as a way to enhance your Shabbat experience. No foreknowledge of Kabbalah is necessary. This group is open to anyone who wishes to explore the mysticism found within our religion on a more intimate level, so please feel free to bring a friend.

(Continued from Page 1)

Monday, August 18, 2014

Brookridge Golf & Fitness

Golfers and Sponsors are welcome! Call Sharon

at the Beth Torah office (913) 498-2212

CBTCLASSICPresented By: Village Shalom


Leadership President’s Corner

Michelle Cole, Past Board President

The time has come for me to write my last Tekiah article as your president. I can honestly say without the support of the amazing Board, executive Board, staff and congregation as a whole, nothing would be achieved. It is not a one-person show to lead the congregation. It takes a community. That is what we have here.

During my time as president, many changes have occurred. Just to name a few: Rabbi Vered Harris left to lead her own congregation. Rabbi Rebecca Reice joined us as our new Rabbi Educator. Our Board introduced the new Dues Commitment program. Rabbi Mark Levin announced his retirement. Marcia Rittmaster announced her retirement. The Torah Writing Experience was born and implemented. Our community celebrated 25 years with festivities! Various committees formed to plan and implement all of these changes. Change is good. Change is hard. BUT change is good. We will only continue to grow as a community through the strength and passion we have for this place we call home, Congregation Beth Torah.

While my tenure as president has had its challenges and curve balls, it has been one of the most gratifying experiences of my life. The lessons I have learned have been invaluable. And for that I thank each and every one of you.

Three years ago, when Janice Schonwetter called me to say the nominating committee selected me to be on the slate as the next president, I immediately talked with my family about this commitment. I also called my mom in OKC, who, when I was in high school, was Temple president. The words of support started that day from my husband, kids, parents, friends and family and have never ended. I couldn’t have done this without them.

I will “sign off” one last time in this space in the Tekiah with this quote I read recently on Twitter. Yes, it was posted by that “other” coffee shop, Starbucks. I thought it was quite fitting.

“Community is what we all have in common. Let’s take care of it together.” Thank you again for your continued support.

See you soon. Michelle

Goodwill Clothing Drive

Adrianne and Vic Applebaum on the birth of their granddaughter, Elliana Sylvia.

Hedy Goldman named Volunteer of the year for BOSCO – Belton Ozanam Southland Cooperative.

Linda and Jeff Schlachter on the birth of their granddaughter, Lily Madison Schlachter, born on February 21, 2014.

Laura and Tim Intfen on the occasion of their daughter, Erika, graduating from Avila University with a BA in Music with an emphasis in Vocal Performance and a BFA in Theatre with an emphasis in Acting.

Rabbi Mark Levin and Kacy Childs Levin on the occasion of Adam Levin graduating from Indiana University in Bloomington with a BA in the Recording Arts.

Mazel Tov To:

Beth Torah is partnering with Goodwill to collect clothes. There’s a donation barrel in the entryway to Beth Torah, so bring your gently-used clothing donations and drop them off in the bin. Donation receipts are available in the office.

Thank you for your Donation!


What an extraordinary way to start my term as president, with the events of June 1st. We will dedicate the Torah scroll that our community wrote this past year and celebrate our founding rabbi and spiritual leader Rabbi Mark Levin as he transitions to his new role of Founding Rabbi.

Looking into the coming year, we anticipate change, along with stability, as Rabbi Shapiro arrives on July 1st, followed by Emily Tummons on August 1st. As they get acquainted with Beth Torah, we look forward to their new insights and fresh voices.

In developing the budget for our coming fiscal year, your Board faced hard choices, and we appreciate your support. Our commitment is to achieving financial balance while retaining and enhancing the values and priorities that make Beth Torah special. In part, we see a return to our roots of volunteerism – we thank those who have already stepped up to lead the new Nosh Committee, and welcome all of you to participate when and how you can.

Often, our members have told us they didn’t know about something, or wish they had known sooner. Our intention is to communicate often without becoming annoying. We are using all the communications vehicles at our disposal – Tekiah, hard copy letters and postcards, E-mails, bi-weekly CBT-eNews, Facebook, Twitter and, of course, our Website. We will continue to use surveys, focus groups and congregational forums to get your input, and create opportunities for dialog. Please feel free to speak with me or any of our Board members when you see us around the building – we try to wear our name badges so you will know who we are!

I am honored and excited to begin my term as president. I have lots of ideas about how to communicate and how to lead the Board. My leadership, however, is for Congregation Beth Torah, not for me. The vision we will clarify and refine as we move forward will not be mine. It will be yours. It will be my privilege to help bring it to life.

Linda Zappulla2014/2015 Beth Torah Board President

Harvesters Backsnack Program Looks Ahead to Another Successful School Year

Beth Torah continues to participate in the Harvesters Backsnack Program and will be partnering with an elementary school starting

again in September to distribute food packs to children in need. If you are able to join the Beth Torah Backsnack team, please contact Diane Balanoff at (913) 238-4276. You may contribute as little as one hour a month, or whatever fits into your schedule, and you will be making a difference in the lives of many children.

A Message from the Incoming PresidentLinda Zappulla

Sponsor our weekly Friday night community

nosh for only $100!

Bring your Simcha to Beth Torah and celebrate with us at Friday evening worship.

Call the office at

(913) 498-2212


Learning Hebrew

Summer Torah

June is frontloaded with special events. As you know, on June 1st we celebrate the completion of writing our own Beth Torah Torah scroll. If that weren’t enough excitement, on June 1st we are also celebrating our founding

spiritual leader Rabbi Mark Levin. And, of course, don’t miss Joel’s Ride on June 8th.

The core of what I want to share with you this month begins on June 3rd. You see as evening falls on June 3rd, we begin the celebration of Shavuot, the holiday of receiving the Torah at Sinai. This Shavuot would not be complete

without you bringing your picnic dinner to our yard around 6:00 p.m. (Beth Torah will provide dessert) and outdoor worship at 6:30 p.m. with blessings for high school seniors and everyone going to camp. This Shavuot will also be our first opportunity to celebrate reading from our new Torah. We will kick off our summer season with many celebrations, but the Torah we read on Erev Shavuot is the Torah that we wrote together, it belongs to every one of us. The Torah we wrote is part of a tradition that spans millennia. It is a Torah that is so much bigger than its 304,805 letters or 79,847 words. It is filled with stories, values and lessons that have transcended time and culture. It is profoundly transportable; it is with you in your hearts and on your lips, everywhere you go.

So, if you are going to camp, take Torah with you in your behavior and your heart. If you are going on vacation, seek out a way to make Shabbat special and different, even as you travel. If you are visiting family this summer, or if they are coming to your house, this time will be a great opportunity

to share your different rituals and traditions. You might even make a few new memories over a Shabbat table, outside, under the stars. Or perhaps bring your friends and family to Beth Torah for the delightful convergence of Shabbat and the 4th of July, the only day of the year when the whole country lights fireworks, instead of candles, for Shabbat. But seriously, it will be a loud, beautiful and spirited first Shabbat to welcome Rabbi Rick Shapiro to our bimah.

Though it is not in June, it is important to say that our community’s Torah expands further this summer with the arrival of Rabbi Rick and Lynn Shapiro to Kansas City. Rabbi Rick Shapiro will begin with us on July 1st, and I look forward to the Summer Torah he has to teach us.

And, of course, I want to put in a brief plug for the Book of Torah that is read during these hot summer months: Numbers. The Book of Bamidbar (lit., in the wilderness), as the Book of Numbers is called in Hebrew, is brimming with rebellions and miracles. And don’t forget that our beloved

Priestly Benediction comes from Numbers 6:24-26. There are a lot of blessings to be found in Summer Torah, you just have to know how to find them. May your summer be enriched by the Torah you study and by the Torah you live!

-Rabbi Rebecca Reice

Rabbi Rebecca Reice, Rabbi Educator [email protected]


ConnectionsThe definition of a crisis is: a situation that seriously and immediately endangers life, property, or the enterprise. Crises are characteristically uncommon, unpredictable and sudden. Crises demand an immediate response in order to save lives, avert secondary damage and restore normal operations.

I recently conducted a completely non-scientific survey on Facebook and asked simply, “What makes you feel safe?” The answers were varied and interesting. Many people mentioned other people, their spouses, friends, hugs from their family members. Some of the answers contained bonds to their faith bringing them the feeling of security, whether it was the Shema specifically or just keeping their faith in their heart. One congregant mentioned cutting themselves off from the news and keeping reality in perspective to keep from overreacting. Another mentioned a real-life hero that was by his side when a possibly life-threatening

accident was narrowly averted and people were there to help.

Since the awful events of April 13th at the Jewish Community Center, I have been asked by many congregants if we have a crisis management plan. The answer is, “Yes, we do.” But it is outdated and needs to be viewed, reviewed, shared and followed.

There have been some immediate changes at Beth Torah. None of which have probably caught your eyes or ears yet. Chimes between the front doors and the office have been activated and a camera installed in the breezeway. These have opened up eyes and ears to the staff in the office and have already increased our security. More little changes like that will be coming, all in the name of security.

I have met with a Crime Prevention Officer of the Community Policing Unit of the Overland Park Police Department and he has recommended numerous, easy/ low or no-cost changes for our building, including our school. The overall implementation of these changes will be a group effort as Aaron Nielsenshultz and I work with our newly appointed Security Liaison to the Board, Bob Milgrim. Bob will be helping with all phases of updating our Crisis Management Manual and Plan and helping Aaron and me implement procedures to make us safer.

In my meeting with the OP Police Department representative, one common thread ran through every recommendation. This was that the eyes and the ears of the Beth Torah community are the MOST essential safety tools that we have. That would be YOU. Your eyes and ears know best what belongs in our building, and what does not. Is the hair on the back of your neck standing up? Tell me. Is there someone in the building you have never seen before that does not look comfortable here? Tell me. A box, backpack and /or bag in a weird place? Let me know. And just like that, our ever present phrase of “We are the community we need,” takes on a whole new meaning.

Your Beth Torah staff and Board is prepared for a crisis. So many unexpected, awful things can happen, but with your eyes and your ears and our preparedness, we will avert a crisis. No matter how small, how seemingly unimportant your concern may seem to you, I don’t see it that way. Let me know when you see the unusual here. I can offer you a face you know or a hug you need. I can sit and pray with you and I can let you know what our crisis manual recommends. I hope that the work being done can help you feel safe. Because you ARE safe here.

Thank you to Bob Milgrim for stepping up to assist our community in our effort to be safe and thank you to all of you for being the eyes and the ears and, of course, being the community we need; to feel secure.

Laura Intfen, Director of Community [email protected]


Religious School Notes

Aaron Nielsenshultz, Director of Youth , Education, and [email protected]

Bringing Education to youIf you had told me even ten years ago that I’d eventually be the director of youth education for a religious school, I wouldn’t have believed you. Don’t get me wrong—I’d had my heart set on being an educator since I was in high school, but my path to the Weiner Religious School was not a direct one.

My first job as an educator came when I worked as a literacy and classroom aide in an elementary school; I worked mostly with kindergarten through third grade, and I loved the joy that comes with teaching those early grades. I learned a lot about educational theory

from this hands-on experience, and I also learned how important it was to approach these little folks carefully—my large frame and out-sized voice could easily make me the scariest person in the room, so I learned to emphasize my friendly personality. I also spent a lot of time on tiny chairs and on my knees so I wouldn’t tower over the students. Over time, I worked with K-6th graders, filling out my range of primary experience.

As much as I loved this experience, when I went to graduate school, I decided to pursue my other love: literature. I completed a Master’s degree in Literature and Writing with an emphasis in medieval literature; as much as I enjoyed my subject-matter focus, I found that my true passion drove me to become a teacher of teachers; my favorite classes involved teaching the teaching of writing to K-12 teachers, especially since these classes brought together my love of teaching and my love of furthering education.

After more than a decade of teaching, I transitioned to administration, focusing on curriculum development and assessment. My work in these areas took me into in-class as well as online education. I found this work challenging and fulfilling, but I discovered that I missed the classroom, so it was around this time—about seven years ago—that I started teaching in the Weiner Religious School. Joining the staff here at Congregation Beth Torah was a dream come true for me, and when the Board asked if I’d consider following in Marcia’s footsteps, I felt that the move brought together my love of teaching, administration, and Judaism in the most perfect possible way.

Having worked with Marcia for the last seven years, I know what an amazing and positive person she is. We have been fortunate to have her. I am looking forward to continuing her good work and to improving the award-winning NATE-Accredited Weiner Religious School.

Finally, I’d love to hear what you think about the programs we have running, too, so let’s grab a coffee and chat!

Bringing Adult Education To YouWhat interests you? What aspect of Jewish life and learning would you like to know more about? In our new Adult Education model, you get to pick a topic, a time, and a place for you and nine others to learn about.

Here are some potential topics:

Coping with IllnessBullying

Judaism and American Foreign PolicyComparative Judaism

If you’d like to learn more or if you’re ready to schedule, call or email Aaron (913) 498-2212 or [email protected]


PJ LibraryLooking for a way to make Fridays a little special? Why not come to PJ Library at Congregation Beth Torah! On the second Friday night of each month, from 5:50 p.m. to 6:10 p.m., we’ll share a PJ Library book and a craft or other fun project. You’ll get to hear a great story from the PJ Library collection, and you’ll finish just in time for Fam Jam (No Fam Jam in June), our Friday night family sing-along. Enjoy a snack at the nosh before worship, and you’ll still be able to get your kiddos home in time for

bed. We’d love to see you on Friday, June 13th.

PJ Library/Shalom Baby, a program of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, is brought to you in partnership with Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City. It is also generously supported by Jewish Community Foundation Legacy Fund, Jewish Heritage Foundation

and Menorah Legacy Foundation.

Just About 4Our Just About 4 playgroup continues! We’ll be doing a Havdalah house-party for the

little ones on June 21st. Contact Aaron for more information.

Special ProgramsFamily Grade Level Socials

Our religious school families have been planning their own family socials in the last few months, getting together to do mitzvah projects or share dinner and play time. Perhaps you’re headed to the park after Sunday School—invite your children’s classmates; if you’re going to Shabbat services, arrange to go out to dinner or lunch with other families from your religious school grades. Aaron Nielsenshultz would be glad to help you arrange a casual get-together with friends or other families. Just let Aaron know what you’re thinking, and we can work together to create a no-stress get-together. Aaron can’t wait to hear from you!

Contact:[email protected]

or (913) 498-2212

Ongoing Adult Education Offerings for June 2014

Yiddish Circle - Yiddish Circle of Learning continues to grow into the summer months in the Bride’s Room at Beth Torah. Bring a lunch and a nominal donation followed by one hour of learning time devoted to the Yiddish language and culture. Knowledge of Yiddish not a requisite for attending. Come learn and laugh with Ray Davidson each Friday at noon.

Wisdom on Wednesdays - Study sacred texts with other Beth Torah members on Wednesdays at noon in the Bride’s Room.

Discussion on the Writings of the Torah - Join the community in discussion on Shabbat morning, 9:00 to 10:15 a.m. in the library.


Youth Activities

For entering 2014-15 9th-12th Graders

Tuesday, June 3, 2014

8:15 p.m. until 7:30 a.m.

Kehilath Israel Synagogue (10501 Conser)

Get acquainted with teens from all over KC!

Go to http://kcrabbis.org/pages/shavuot.html for more information and to register.

YOUTH GROUP NEWS:

BTTY held an Election Caucus on May 4, 2014. Serving on the BTTY Board next year will be:

President – Margo HellmanProgram VP – Katie Fine

Social Action VP – Jared Boehm Religious & Cultural VP – Liam Nielsenshultz

Membership VP – Corey Minkoff Communications & Visual VP – Billy Jacob

Special Projects Coordinator – Annica Davis Junior Youth Group Liaison – Sarah Shaw

Future Leaders – Blaire Ellenberg, Oscar Chase & Will ReicherAdvisor: Hannah Michelson

CAMP NEWSBeth Torah offers a Camp Farewell during our annual Erev Shavuot Picnic and Worship on Tuesday, June 3, 2014. The YAEC will present students who are headed to camp or Israel with a farewell gift.

Thank you to all the parents who responded to the pleas of information about when and where their children will be attending camp this year. Letters are written to every camper. Let the office know if your child is not on this list so they can receive a letter, too! The Beth Torah students going to camp are: Chloe Azorsky, Gabi Azorsky, Rebecca Bachmuth, Olivia Balanoff, Aaron Berkowitz, Jared Boehm, Oscar Chase, Lauren Cole, Isaac Decker, Chloe Ephraim, Josh Frumkin, Nina Gale, Lindsay Gill, Mackenzie and Braxton Hammontree Rylee Hendrikse, Mya Levitch, Asa Maker, Eli Maker, Corey Minkoff, Elyana Myer, Liam Nielsenshultz, Aisling Nielsenshultz, Avi Pavin, Sarah Rawitch, Sarah Shaw, Jacob Shaw, Emily Tranin, Noah Waldman, Conner Wilson, Keeley Wright.

JYG/TYG News

Welcome to

Summer Camp

Stay Connected!Visit our Website: www.beth-torah.org

Follow us on Twitter: @BethTorah

Join us on Facebook: Congregation Beth Torahhttp://on.fb.me/vQ8E5P

(or E-mail us at [email protected] and we will send you the links!)


Beth Torah NewsThank You For Breakfast & Ice Cream

Join the group who helps offset the cost of our Sunday breakfasts. Our breakfast selections include flavored cream cheese (fruit, veggie and salmon in addition to plain), butter and jelly and a rotation of muffins, cinnamon rolls, donuts, croissants or fresh fruit. On Wednesday evenings our TAG students are treated to ice cream, or an occasional other special treat!

For your sponsorship of only $60, we’ll put your name and the event you are honoring on electronic kiosk and your name will be read from the Bima! An additional note of appreciation goes to those families who get up early and help set up our breakfast each Sunday morning.

A big thank you to all of our families that sponsored breakfast or ice cream in May:

Miki & Gregg Herman in honor of Sophia’s Birthday

Jennifer, Molly & Kate Levinson in honor & in memory of the life of Craig Citron

Sali & Steve Holmes in honor of Mikaela & Jonathan Rittmaster

Ilya & Michele Frumkin in honor of Evan & Lauren’s Birthday’s

Jeff & Melinda Janofsky in honor of Cameron’s 12th Birthday

Want to sponsor a breakfast next year? You can sign up on the sign-up poster in the ulam on Sunday mornings or call the Beth Torah office. No worries about payment; we will bill you during the month of your sponsorship.

At the Annual Meeting, we responded to questions from our members, and heard their desire for more knowledge of what goes on, and how things happen at Beth Torah. The Board of Trustees will publish regular

notes in the Tekiah, sharing transition updates, financial information, discussion and decisions taken at Board meetings. In addition, we remind you that monthly Board meetings, typically held the second Monday evening, are open to members.

Thank you to those who attended, or sent in a proxy, for the Annual Meeting, held on April 27th. The slate of officers, and continuing and new members of the Board, were elected by unanimous vote. See the back

cover for their names. The 2014/2015 budget was also approved, following much discussion and the addition of $4,000 to support the transition from budgeted to volunteer Nosh. Board members Bonnie Swade and Alexis Schwartz will co-chair the new Nosh Committee. You will be hearing from them as they form their committee, seeking ideas and volunteers. A Babysitting Committee will also be formed.

In order to give members more frequent insight into the financial status of the congregation, we have arranged for a quarterly focus on financials, scheduling Sunday morning Congregational Forums on October 26, 2014,

and January 25, 2015, where we will discuss the latest financial statements, and other topics of interest. Put these dates on your calendar now, so you don’t miss this opportunity. An unaudited fiscal year-end statement will be inserted in the July/August Tekiah.

The sale of the lease on the Sprint Tower is moving forward, and is expected to close early in the summer. As discussed at the meeting, this influx of cash will address current and future budget shortfalls, and provide

additional funding to meet building repair needs.

Finally, in response to the tragic events at the JCC and Village Shalom, Beth Torah initiated a review and enhancement to its own building security. Board member Bob Milgrim has agreed to serve as Security Liaison,

partnering with Laura Intfen, who writes in detail on this topic on page 6.

Notes From the Board of Trustees

The Caring Connection Team is here for you - Are you or a family member facing a health care challenge? Do you have an upcoming surgery and not much support when you get home? Do you have a family member struggling with a chronic illness? DO YOU NEED A LITTLE EXTRA HELP? The Caring Connection Team is up and run-ning and available to provide practical support like run-ning errands, occasional transportation, a friendly visit or phone call, or relieving a family caregiver for a few hours. Your Beth Torah Community is part of your support net-work, along with your family and friends. Give us a call if we can be of help: Kelly Somberg, CCT Team Leader (913) 205-6411 or [email protected].


CBT Music ProgramHard to know where to start with all the news from music at Beth Torah. It’s been a bit of a challenge picking up the “baton”, but things have truly fallen into place. First, our wonderful Music Program Transition Committee made the recommendation to the Personnel Committee to hire Ms. Emily Tummons as our next permanent Music Director. Emily quickly became beloved by those who experienced her worship leading from our bimah. Her qualifications run deep, and our community is fortunate that she has found her home with us. Emily is completing a previous commitment this summer, and will formally join our staff on August 1, 2014.

In the meantime, our musical worship will be led my myself, Lezlie Zucker or Tim Intfen...or sometimes all three! We are also welcoming a new, very talented piano accompanist, Carmen Guenther, who will occasionally accompany for Saturday morning worship services, as well as accompany our choir and congregation for High Holy Days.

The choir will begin rehearsing in June, with Texanna Ollenberger, in order to fully prepare for High Holy Day worship. They will be supporting our High Holy Day soloist, Rabbi Uri Barnea, who will sing for most of the traditional services. Emily Tummons will provide music for our contemporary services, and she is formulating music for meaningful worship. Whatever service you attend, the music aspects of High Holy Day worship promise to be as beautiful as they are meaningful.

There is much more happening, which will be discussed as our summer moves along, but overall, expect the musical aspects of worship at Beth Torah to be intentional and thoughtful. Our voices together make us strong, and help make our worship whole. Thank you for your patience and support!

Judith BensonMusic Program Coordinator

In Memoriam:

Gerald PolokoffGrandfather of Jenny Ball

Esther Abend

Mother of Stephen Abend

Denise HolsbergerWife of Jim Holsberger

Carolyn Pendergrass

Mother of David Pendergrass

Marvin FreedmanUncle of Dan Somberg

Kevin Fisk

Brother-in-law of Mike Orensberg

Leah Fay SalzbergSister of Linda Khadavi

Howard Novorr

Father of Richard Novorr

Rose Feldman

Bill SwearinginFather of Debbie Bass and grandfather

of Tori Bass

Bat Mitzvah of Annie Berman

Annie Berman, daughter of Kevin and Stacy Berman, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah at Shabbat worship on June 14th at 10:30 a.m. Annie is a 7th grader at Pleasant Ridge Middle School. She does horseback riding, loves singing, and enjoys drawing and spending time with friends and family. She is the granddaughter of Jeffrey and Gail Berman and Ron and Carol Blackley. The congregation is welcome to join the community at the Kiddush luncheon following the service.

B’nai Mitzvah of Alex & Ethan Rein

Alex and Ethan Rein, sons of Suzy and Todd Rein, will celebrate their B’nai Mitzvah at Shabbat worship at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 5th. Alex and Ethan are in the 7th grade at Frontier Trail Middle School. Alex enjoys playing baseball and building things with his hands. Ethan enjoys baseball and art. The family looks forward to seeing the Beth Torah community at worship, and invites the community to a Kiddush luncheon following services.

Judith Benson, Music Program [email protected]


Rabbi Reice Discretionary Fund In Memory Of:Edward Serlin Tina Shea

CBT Fund For Families In NeedIn Memory Of:Denise Holsberger Beth, Jim, Madeline & Ben Carlson Carissa Jacobs Amy Michelson Mary Beth PupoGrandfather, Martin Gilgus Janet & Jeff RazafskySam Freed Lynne & Morris FaimanMania Gutterman Esther Markus & Weber, Adam and Mike IngersollCarolyn Pendergrass Lisa Theis Sara RothsteinViola Worthington Ruth & Michael Worthington In Honor Of:Birth of Vic & Adrianne Applebaum’s granddaughter Phyllis Goldberg

Choir FundIn Honor Of:Linda SweenieGlenn Philips Jack Feldman Fred & Barbara Gustin

Hunger FundIn Memory Of:Denise Holsberger Annette & Joel Fish Elaine Holsberger Elizabeth & Dan Kersting UBCAlvin B. Sloofman Pam & Bill KanterFather & Grandfather, Leonard Klein Lesly & Issy Ozar Stephanie ElyacharEsther SilversteinMinnie Klutznick Janet & Jeff RazafskyDorie Chortek Doug & Colleen Polsky Dorathea PolskyBess Crane Michael Crane

In Honor Of:Birth of Alice Capson’s granddaughter Annette & Joel Fish Social Justice FundIn Memory Of:Joseph Razafsky Janet & Jeff RazafskyMarvin Shalinsky Linda & Ron Rubin & FamilyJanice Eichler James and Kelly Kaplan

CBT Camp Scholarship FundIn Memory Of:Denise Holsberger Roberta O’KellyDuana Linville DralusRose Feldman Maureen & Sandy Salz

In Honor Of: Hedy Goldman Maureen & Sandy Salz

Prayerbook FundIn Memory Of:Isaac Bein Deena JenabDorothy Goldstein Martin & Irene Goldstein

Dr. Milton L. Tate Torah FundIn Memory Of:George Kaplan Alice Kaplan

Amy Dennis Pierron Music FundIn Memory Of: Leah Fay (Moss) Salzberg Alice Capson Youth Activities FundIn Honor Of: Marcia Rittmaster Adrianne & Vic Applebaum

Weiner Religious School FundIn Honor Of: Marcia Rittmaster’s retirement Ruth & Michael Worthington

Beth Torah General Fund Adrienne Balagar In Memory Of:Esther Abend Joel & Carol Lissauer Suzi WeinerEmil Turk Irving FensterLyubov Kapustin Joseph & Tatyana ShuklaperRoza KheyfetsSamuel Zeyfmacher Oleg Kheyfets

In Honor Of:Samantha HammontreeMatt & Shanna HaunFrank & Robin Sterneck Barry & Linda Katz

Rabbi Levin Discretionary FundIn Memory Of:Sarah Riseman Jay RisemanMother, Helen Davidson Ray DavidsonFather, Herman Hurst Radine ShawPhil Kessler Bill KesslerDenise Holsberger Joshua & Sarah StolkerRose Sarah Klopper Karen Agron FlatteryDorothy Kreitman Bobbie & Joe LevyAlan Elfanbaum Rita StarkDorothy KreitmanJoseph Stark Howard & Rita StarkSam Freed Ron FreedIsabelle Irene Childers Ron & Jo Ann Ginson

In Appreciation Of:Joyce & Alisa Kartch Ron & Jo Ann Ginson

Rabbi’s Fund For Social Justice ProjectsIn Honor Of:Rabbi Levin’s Retirement Steve & Denise EllenbergIn Memory Of:Sylvie Reice The Benson Family

Contributions


Happenings in the Community

Please join congregant Barb Mendelson for the 5th annual Bowling with Barb event, happening Sunday, July 13th, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., to be held at Ward Parkway Lanes, 1523 West 89th St, KC, MO 64114. This is a fundraising event to support research of Mitochondrial Disease. For more information, contact Barb at [email protected].

“Mitochondria are your cells’ powerhouses. Mitochondrial disease is the body’s inability to turn food

into energy needed to sustain life.”

Benefiting the Research to Fight Mitochondrial Disease

Mazel Tov to the 2014/2015 Board of Trustees

President: Linda ZappullaFirst Vice President: Barry KatzVice President: Mike Ginsberg

Vice President: Matt HaunSecretary: Bonnie SwadeTreasurer: Dan Davidson

Immediate Past President:

Michelle Cole

Trustees:Judith Benson, Chuck Cantor,

Sue Crane

Jeff Altman, Chuck Cantor, Tom Cohen, June Crane,

Todd Davisson, Mike Fine, Mikki Herman, Bob Milgrim,

Alexis Schwartz, David Spizman, Frank Sterneck & SueAnn Strom

BTTY President: Margo Hellman

Hannah Feldman, Mackenzie Haun, Emma Benson, our Family Service Worship music

volunteers, on Sunday, May 11th

The Gift Shop at Congregation Beth TorahThe Gift Shop at Congregation Beth Torah makes many contributions to our community. Our motto is “where shopping turns into a mitzvah” and that is, truly, how all the committee members and volunteers really feel. It is our mission to help support our community in many important ways.

Henri Goettel was the winner of our social justice project and I was privileged to present a check to JFS Food Pantry. Did you know that the JFS Food Pantry is located at the JCC? Did you know JFS Food Pantry offers individuals and family a respectful way to get most of their grocery needs? This is a need-based pantry which offers food, and other non-edible house supplies, even pet food. The pantry relies on donations to keep the shelves full, volunteers to help sort the donations and to assist every person when they come to shop. The JFS Food Pantry is a vital part of our community. It is my hope that each of you could find out what our community has to offer and then VOLUNTEER. Remember, we are the community we need. If you don’t support our community, then it may not be here for our children and their community in the future.

We are close to the end of another year, but there is still a lot to do. We need your help for the next year and we have several ways you can help. First, come to our shop and make at least 2 gift purchases each year. Second, go to our on-line shop through the Beth-Torah.org website. We are located at the bottom of the home page where you will see a banner that says “World of Judaica”. Any time you need a gift, please think of our website as a great quick and easy place to find both Judaica and non Judaica gifts. Finally, get involved in our shop by volunteering to help once a month. If you could help us, please call Kelly Kaplan at (913) 498-1474.

Summer Hours: Beginning May 19th, The Gift Shop will be open: Monday 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Wednesday 10:00 a.m. to Noon and Friday 10:00 a.m. to noon, or by appointment- call Kelly Kaplan at (913) 498-1474. Have a fun and safe summer.Shalom, Kelly and all our volunteers


June 2014 Calendar

Sponsorships: June 13th-14th – Pulpit flowers and the Shabbat morning Kiddush luncheon is sponsored by Stacy and Kevin Berman in honor of the bat mitzvah of their daughter, Annie Berman.


Non-Profit Org.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDShawnee Mission, KS

Permit No. 721

Congregation Beth Torah6100 W. 127th Street

Overland Park, Kansas 66209www.beth-torah.org

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

Tekiah # 279, June 2014Congregation Beth Torah

(913) 498-2212 Fax: (913) 498-1071E-mail: [email protected]: www.beth-torah.org

OfficersPresident................................................Linda Zappulla First Vice President...................................... Barry KatzVice President........................................ Mike GinsbergVice President............................................... Matt HaunSecretary ............................................... Bonnie SwadeTreasurer ................................................ Dan DavidsonImmediate Past President........................ Michelle ColeBoard of TrusteesJeff Altman Chuck Cantor Tom Cohen June CraneTodd Davisson Mike Fine Mikki Herman Bob MilgrimAlexis Schwartz David SpizmanFrank Sterneck SueAnn StromBTTY President................................... Margo Hellman

StaffRabbi............................... Mark H. Levin, D.H.L., D.D.Rabbi Educator ............... Rebecca R. Reice, M.A.J.E.Director of Community Connections ..........Laura IntfenDirector of Youth, Education, and Engage-ment............................................... Aaron NielsenshultzOffice Manager....................................... Robin O’ BryanMusic Program Coordinator..................... Judith BensonAdministrative Assistant..........................Sharon AltmanBookkeeper.......................................................Barb Kitt

BTTY Adviser: Hannah MichelsonJYG Advisers: Rachel Bolter & Zach Zwibelman

© Congregation Beth Torah, Overland Park, KS

ShavuotC E L E B R A T E

Schedule:Tuesday, June 3rd

6:00 p.m. Picnic on our Lawn.

Bring your own dinner and enjoy a meal with your community. Camp Farewell activities and gifts.

6:30 p.m. Outdoor worship including a blessing for our high school seniors and a

special blessing for our summer campers and Israel travelers. We will read the 10 Commandments from our newly scribed Torah!

Shavuot Worship will be held Wednesday morning, June 4th, at 10:00 a.m. The office will be closed.

june 2014 tekiah

Documents