Announcements

March/April President's Column by Amy Gerstein: Lessons From Geology (Yes, Geology) for Congregational Life
Here’s an interesting fact about me that not many people know – I was a geology-biology major in college. (Well, at least I think it’s interesting!) Although I do not spend much time these days differentiating igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks, I have been thinking lately about that aspect of my background and how it connects with my role as President of Congregation Beth Am. 

Your Vote Matters: World Zionist Election 2025
Every five years, Jews around the world have an opportunity for their voices to be heard in Israel. From March 10 until May 4, the Beth Am community — and any self-identifying Jew in the United States — has the opportunity to cast their vote in the World Zionist Congress (WZC) elections. These elections are our opportunity — as American Reform Jews — to have a direct influence on the decisions and policies shaping the major social issues in Israel. 

Looking for A Few Friendly Volunteer Greeters
Be the friendly first impression and helpful presence at our community events. We need volunteers to help with greeting and creating a positive experience so that every person who walks through our doors feels at home. We are looking for warm, enthusiastic, friendly people to help us. Sound like you? Sound like someone you know? Encourage them to sign up, too. A fun training will be provided. If you or someone you know might be interested, please contact greeterleads@betham.org.

Beth Am Shared Identity Project
Our Beth Am Shared Identity Project is now underway. We are focused on YOU and YOUR needs and hopes for your Jewish life, community and future. This project depends on each of you, and will help Beth Am build a better Jewish future for our congregation. “It’s a personal look forward that will help define Beth Am’s core purpose, values and inform our strategic direction for years to come," says project lead Jim Heeger.

Caregivers Sh'ma Groups
Are you caring for a spouse? If you feel overwhelmed, you are not alone. You can take part in a Sh’ma group — not therapy, but a safe and friendly space to share stories. This group format has proved successful here at Beth Am in helping us start meaningful, supportive conversations. You will have guidelines for suggested topics and respectful interactions. You can easily form or join a group; the leadership duties are minimal and help from clergy is continually available. Groups are now forming. Join in! For more information, please contact Rabbi Watenmaker at rabbi_watenmaker@betham.org.

April Fund in Focus: Jack and Fay Ruby Camp Fund
If your kid loves camp, you know that they start to look forward to the summer as soon as one summer is over! Jewish summer camp gets our kids outdoors, learning, laughing, and engaging in a very special part of their Jewish community.
Each summer, the Jack and Fay Ruby Fund at Beth Am helps us provide financial assistance to Beth Am kids who need it. This is the time of year when financial assistance requests come in, and we want to say YES to every family who asks.

Adult Education Opportunities With Rabbi Yoel Kahn
Rabbi Yoel Kahn will be offering some new adult education opportunities this spring, including some holiday-themed sessions. Topics include:

• Illustrated Medieval Haggadot
• The History of the Seder
• The World of Midrash

Also this spring, Rabbi Art Nemitoff will be leading a book discussion on "As A Driven Leaf" on April 22. Please visit the Adult Education webpage for full class descriptions and registration information.