BALI Speaker's Forum
Bet Alef members share unique stories
Homage to Jal Feldman
This special BALI forum was graciously hosted by Bet Alef members, Jason and Kai Wodicka. Together, they crafted a heartfelt homage to our beloved Bet Alef musical genius, Jal Feldman, as he embarked on his new journey to California. This homage is a memorable celebration of Jal's remarkable contributions to our community, showcasing his musical talents and the wisdom he shared during his time with us at Bet Alef. Through a collaborative compilation of video clips, we honored Jal in a way that reflects his impact on all of us.
Pivotal Moments and Periods of Transition
June 19, 2024 • Rachel Rosenman
Five short stories about how preparation, purpose, and planning paved the way for profound life experiences. Rachel will weave elements of her musical history and connection to Jewish music to important life moments that she’s experienced, along with her journey to find alignment of her own values and purpose, and help others find alignment in theirs as well.
Laura Gilman: “What Is To Be Done?: Student Activism, Critical Theory, and the 1960s West German Stu
September 18, 2024
In her discussion, Bet Alef member Laura Gillman will examine the critical theory of Theodor Adorno, a leading figure of the Frankfurt School, renowned theorist of modern society, fascism and Western Left thought, and professor. Laura's intention is to shed light on the purpose and role(s) of the university in our own historical moment, as well as on activism’s potential for both strengthening and eroding democratic society. If you have not already registered to receive the Zoom link, you may do so here: https://betalef.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=547261f8e3af26cbe942071d9&id=0b79b7cf19&e=679d2e0ba2. For more information on how to get involved with our Speakers Forum committee, or to suggest future speakers (self-nominations also invited), contact https://betalef.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=547261f8e3af26cbe942071d9&id=cc9feb8d1b&e=679d2e0ba2.
Rachel Crichton: "What’s Next? It’s Up to You."
April 10, 2024
Our BALI presentation on April 10th features Rebecca Crichton, Executive Director of Northwest Center for Creative Aging. She will share her knowledge around how we age well, with her PowerPoint presentation and discussion called "What’s Next? It’s Up to You." If you have not already registered to receive the Zoom link, you may do so here: https://betalef.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=547261f8e3af26cbe942071d9&id=0b79b7cf19&e=679d2e0ba2. For more information on how to get involved with our Speakers Forum committee, or to suggest future speakers (self-nominations also invited), contact https://betalef.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=547261f8e3af26cbe942071d9&id=cc9feb8d1b&e=679d2e0ba2.
A Tribute to Jal Feldman: Musical Career
March 13, 2024
We invite you to join us for March's special BALI forum, graciously hosted by Bet Alef members, Jason and Kai Wodicka. Together, they have crafted a heartfelt homage to our beloved Bet Alef musical genius, Jal Feldman, as he embarks on his new journey to California. This homage will be a memorable celebration of Jal's remarkable contributions to our community, showcasing his musical talents and the wisdom he has shared during his time with us at Bet Alef. Through a collaborative compilation of video clips, we will honor Jal in a way that reflects his impact on all of us. We warmly encourage all of you to attend this touching forum for Jal. Let's come together to show our appreciation and send him off with love and gratitude.
Peter Herford: Size Matters
February 14, 2024
A trip into China which you have not seen unless you traveled there recently or lived there. A China beyond the headlines. The concept of SIZE is key to understanding China and its one-party system that bears little resemblance to what we think of as Communism. I will explore the history, culture, and politics of China in the post 1949 era when the modern one-party state came into being. Welcome aboard. Like China's transportation system, it is high-speed travel.
Paolina Libes: ""The wound is the opening that lets the light in."
January 17, 2024
Paula will tell us about her lifelong struggle with bi-polar disorder, the curse which contains within it the blessing. Paula’s strong connection to the Divine gave her the strength and support to avoid the fear and paranoia which typically accompany bi-polar, formerly referred to as “manic depression.” Sharing the struggle with Bet Alef, “coming out” as a person with this much-stigmatized mental challenge, is one more step in Paula’s amazing journey.
Michelle Brode: How Being a Fierce Advocate for Young People Has Led Me to Work with Adults
November 15, 2023
Michelle will discuss issues young people are facing today- some of which are new challenges, some of which are long-standing challenges. Her work includes advocacy at the Jewish Day School, URJ Camp Kalsman (Jewish overnight camp in Arlington, WA), with Mental Health First Aid, and as a parent coach. Michelle invites us to evaluate trends in how adults can support young people in their lives and will share some resources.
Sharon Mayo's Extraordinary Life
October 29, 2023
Bet Alef member Sharon Mayo discusses: "My extraordinary life, thriving after a plane crash!" Sharon Mayo is a Washington State licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) and substance use disorder professional (SUDP) who helps repair the world one step at a time through teaching, inspiring, and motivating.
Pam Cowen and her Journey along the Camino de Santiago
September 13, 2023
In September and October of last year, Pam Cowan and Steve Miller walked the Camino de Santiago, an ancient Spanish pilgrimage route, from Pamplona to Muxia on the west coast of Spain. Pam describes the trip, her reasons for taking it, and the takeaways from the experience!
Steve Miller and Immigration
June 7, 2023
Bet Alef Board member Steve Miller speaks on "Immigration- What are the problems and Why is any solution so difficult?'. Steve is a co-founder of the immigration law firm Cowan, Miller and Lederman and has spoken at national, regional and local conferences on the legal, political and human issues involved.