Happy Tu B'shevat! Celebrate a New Year!

JANUARY 2018, TEVET/SHEVAT 5778

Happy Tu B’Shevat! Celebrate a New Year!

Published monthly from September-June by Congregation Agudath Israel of West Essex; Affiliated with United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 20 Academy Road, Caldwell, New Jersey 07006; 973.226.3600; www.agudath.org CONGREGATION AGUDATH ISRAEL OF WEST ESSEX

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Schedule of Services �� 4 Film - Honor of Tu B’shevat �� 24 A Message From The Rabbi �� 5 CAI Social Worker �� 25 Notes From The Cantor �� 6 Adult Education...... 26 What’s In The Werks �� 7 Shabbat Meditation �� 27 CAI Development Director �� 9 World Music Event �� 28 Men’s Club, Devils Tickets �� 12 Blood Drive...... 29 Maven Chef...... 13 NJ Jewish Singles 45+ �� 31 Early Childhood Center �� 15 Tributes and Donations �� 34

INSIDE Interfaith and Social Action �� 16 Yahrzeits...... 37 Sisterhood Shabbat �� 17 Personals...... 38 Men’s Club...... 17 Caldwell Hadassah �� 39 From the President �� 19 B’nai Mitzvah...... 40 Mahjong Madness...... 20 Torah Fund...... 42 Interfaith Committee �� 21 Superbowl Shabbat �� 43 Environmental Committee �� 23

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SCHEDULE OF SERVICES CANDLE LIGHTING

For daily minyan and Shabbat morning times, see below, right-hand side. JANUARY

NOTE: Early and Late Friday night Friday, January 5...... 4:26 pm services are being COMBINED into the Shabbat ends, Saturday, January 6...... 5:36 pm EREV SHABBAT SERVICE Friday, January 12 ...... 4:33 pm Friday, January 5 Shabbat ends, Saturday, January 13...... 5:43 pm Erev Shabbat Service ...... 4:25 pm Shabbat In PJ’s...... 5:30 pm Friday, January 19...... 4:41 pm Saturday, January 6 Shabbat ends, Saturday, January 20...... 5:51 pm Shabbat Meditation...... 9:30 am Minchah/Talmud Study/Maariv...... 4:20 pm Bar Mitzvah - Kyle Fink...... pm Friday, January 26...... 4:49 pm

SERVICES Shabbat ends, Saturday, January 27 ...... 5:59 pm Friday, January 12 Erev Shabbat Service...... 4:30 pm DAILY SERVICES Saturday, January 13 Bar Mitzvah - Tobey Giat...... am Mornings Minchah/Talmud Study/Maariv...... 4:25 pm Monday & Thursday...... 6:45 am Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday...... 7:00 am Sunday Talmud Study...... 8:15 am Friday, January 19 Sunday Shacharit...... 9:00 am Erev Shabbat Service...... 4:40 pm Evenings L’Dor Va Dor Shabbat Dinner...... 6:00 pm Sunday - Thursday...... 7:30 pm Erev Shabbat Monthly Service...... 7:00 pm Friday...... (see schedule) Saturday...... (see schedule) Saturday, January 20 Torah Chug...... 10:15 am SATURDAY Camp Shabbat...... 11:00 am Minchah/Talmud Study/Maariv...... 4:35 pm Services Begin...... 9:00 am Torah Study Group...... 9:00 am Friday, January 26 Torah Reading Chug...... 10:15 - 11:00 am Erev Shabbat Service...... 4:45 pm (twice a month, ages 9-12) Teen Service/Schmooze...... 10:45 am Saturday, January 27 The following are at...... 11:00 am Sisterhood Shabbat • Torah for Tots (ages 0-4) Minchah/Talmud Study/Maariv...... 4:40 pm • Mini-Minyan (grades K-2) Bat Mitzvah - Rachel Levine...... pm • Mini-Congo (grades 3-4) • Jr Congo (grades 5-6) • Kadima (grades 7-8) • Shabbat Meditation 9:30 am, second Saturday of every month

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Celebrating Tu B’Shevat: Jewish Responsibility Toward the Earth

Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik’s famous volume titled, “The Lonely Man of Faith” describes two Creation stories in the Book of Genesis, unveiling 2 different dimensions of humankind, our nobility and our humility. Adam #1 - is crafted in the image and likeness of God. Adam #1 enters the world in perfect harmony with nature, as a vegetarian - with dominion over the entire planet. Rabbi Silverstein Adam #1 is graced by moments of creativity and transcendence that express our divine-like uniqueness, “little lower than the angels.” IN CONTRAST - Adam #2 - is existentially alone, with no claim to God-like resemblance. ADAM #2’s domain is limited to the Garden of Eden, in which he is not the MASTER, but is only the STEWARD - to till and to tend the Earth. Adam #2 is given limitations. Adam #2 is neither self-sufficient nor all-powerful. In Adam I#2, we recognize ourselves. In terms of ecology – for Adam #2 - Genesis 2:15 - Adam #2 is commanded leOvda uleShomra – “to work and to guard” the garden of Eden - e.g. to serve and to preserve, as the Earth’s Steward [Guardian] both cultivation and preservation [leOvda and LeShomra]. The word “Avodah” derives from the same root as “to worship.” It implies a religious relationship to the soil, to nature, to the world-as-a-garden. The dual mission is to work, to produce, to develop, but at the same time to preserve, to guard, to be vigilant that the work does not get out of hand –e.g. sustainable development. Stewardship implies responsibility, to be responsible to the One who really is in charge, e.g. to God. We see this image in the mystical book, The Zohar --- “where Creation is likened to a king [God] who ruled a city, built and maintained it, and then decided to appoint one of the residents [Adam #2] as ruler over it in His stead.” With the role of providing for the needs of the world and its perpetuation, humans must seek harmony with nature since no other being can elect to do so. When God in Genesis 1:26 says – “Let US make man in OUR image, after OUR likeness”” – this means [according A MESSAGE FROM RABBI ALAN SILVERSTEIN FROM A MESSAGE to David Kimche – RADAK] that God proposed to all of the elements in the natural order, “Let you and I, make the human together in partnership with US.” With these objectives in mind, it is imperative for us to be ecologically responsible, to be Shomrei Adamah. For that sacred purpose, the CAI Environmental Committee is celebrating Tu B’Shevat on January 31 at 7:45 pm – with a viewing of Al Gore’s “An Inconvenient Sequel” and then some religious perspectives from Father Tom of Notre Dame Roman Catholic Church as well as my presentation of this dimension of Mitzvah. Please join us. With friendship, Rabbi Alan Silverstein

DEBORAH RABNER, M.D., F.A.A.D. Diplomate, American Board of Dermatology

1129 Bloomfield Avenue Suite 205 Tel. (973) 575-6880 West Caldwell, NJ 07006 Fax. (973) 575-1616

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The Andy Statman Trio – Here on February 10! On Saturday night, February 10, join us for a wonderful concert with the Andy Statman Trio! For ticket details, see page 28. But rather than repeat that, let me tell you why you should come! First, let me tell you that I’ve known Andy Statman’s name, and his music, for decades. He is absolutely one of the greatest living Klezmer performers, and an absolute whiz on both mandolin and clarinet. Cantor Caplan If you haven’t heard this clip -- http://tinyurl.com/StatmanExample – just listen to 15 seconds of it, and you’ll see what I’m raving about. And if you don’t believe me, what about these guys? “Statman is the real thing - a musician’s musician” -- The New Yorker “Modern American music with ancient mysteries at the core...” -- The New York Times “A beautiful sound full of heat, heart and a love of God...” -- Rolling Stone “In Statman’s versatile hands is a music that’s full of surprises, sophisticated and completely accessible at once” -- New York Daily News “(A) seamless amalgamation of jazz, bluegrass and klezmer...” -- The Pittsburgh Post Gazette ------Andy Statman, one of his generation's premier mandolinists and clarinetists, thinks of his compositions and performances as "spontaneous American-roots music and personal, prayerful hasidic music, by way of avant-garde jazz." Andy's musical journey began early, when he was a child in Queens, not far from his current home in Flatbush, Brooklyn. Born into a family with a long line of cantors and some well-known professional musicians in the family NOTES FROM CANTOR JOEL CAPLAN CANTOR FROM NOTES tree, Andy grew up singing hasidic melodies in the afternoon Jewish school his parents sent him to, and listening to show tunes, klezmer, and classics - along with every other variety of music playing within earshot. Indeed, young Andy had ravenous ears, absorbing the early sounds of rock and roll and the beginnings of the folk revival. But after his brother brought home a vintage record by Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs, Andy became obsessed with bluegrass, which he would tune into via shortwave radio from West Virginia. In 1965, Andy found mandolin master David Grisman, a Grammy-nominated bluegrass-folkjazz musician. "I always tell people that if the only thing I ever did was give Andy his first mandolin lesson, it would have been a life well spent." "I'm very lucky," says Andy. "The guys I've studied with have treated me as an apprentice in the Old World sense. I'm probably from the last generation that had a chance to learn from the greats." Another mentor he found was no less than master klezmer clarinetist Dave Tarras, "the most successful immigrant- era Yiddish musician," in the words of music writer Seth Rogovoy. While Andy Statman the musician was playing the clarinet, Andy Statman the Jew was discovering his history, rejoicing in the sound and the feel of being a person with a rich ancestral past. He felt revived - as did Tarras - who himself was rediscovered and recorded once again. Tarras (who died in 1989) bequeathed his clarinets to Andy, his greatest protégé - and made him the next link in the chain. Hence Andy became known primarily as one of the key klezmer revivalists of the 70s and early 80s, among the musicians who launched a great wave to reclaim the music of the Old World. Since his divergence from mainstream klezmer in the mid-90s, Andy's journey has taken him, once again, to new places he's somehow been before. He's recorded a number of traditional Jewish-inspired albums, including "Songs of Our Fathers" with David Grisman, and his classical klezmer sensation "In the Fiddler's House," which he recorded with Itzhak Perlman in 1996. It's a journey Andy says he now revisits with his trio each time they perform: "We're creating an experience between the audience and us," with their unconstrained meditations on hasidic music and groove-driven explorations of American-roots music. Continued on page 14

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WWW.AGUDATH.ORG JANUARY 2018 T o r a h P i l l a r EVERY AGE & EVERY STAGE OF JEWISH LEARNING Cultivating trees with deep roots commercial for ancestry.com piqued my interest in the to adopt new customs and tradi- A popularity of a simple saliva test it offers that promises tions. They make plans to travel to to yield information, based on DNA, to identify where a per- their newly discovered “homeland.” son’s ancestors came from. I also wonder if living in New Jer- As for me, I see myself as a typical Ashkenazi Jew, and sey/New York has altered my fam- this is what my family history tells me: that my forebears ily’s DNA and if, decades or came from Poland and Russia. When I had the honor of centuries from now, our relatives of staffing the Jewish federation’s women’s trip to Ukraine the future will be intrigued about many years ago, I remember saying that everyone there their ancestors being part of this looked just like me. society. But have I been assuming too much? Could I perhaps have Being part of the CAI commu- Tu B’Shevat, New Year of the Trees, a trace of Sephardi blood? I would love to discover that nity has been life-altering for the

WHAT’S IN THE WERKS WHAT’S is on Jan. 31. there’s a real genealogical reason for my love of Mediter- Werk family on many levels, but ranean food — especially hummus. I think many of us won- what has really wowed me are the large number of multi-gen- der about the mystery of our roots and would love to get erational families who are part of our community. What information about past generations — where our great-great- nachas I feel when I welcome the next generation of CAI great-grandparents lived and how the circumstances of those members and see that grandparents, parents, and children of ancestors influenced our personal narratives today. one family are all learning and growing together in our sacred If I found out that I do indeed have roots in an unexpected space. To bring Shabbat in the ECC to three-year-old Whitney place, how would that change me or enhance my soul? The Messer, knowing that her father was in the religious school in commercials for ancestry.com portray people who are trans- years past, that Messers were part of my first CAI family trip formed by the information they receive. Their newfound her- to Israel, and that her grandmother is a loyal learner in our itage leads to a change in their clothing styles, or moves them adult classes is pure joy. What an honor to be part of every milestone event for our families. Thanks to our event chairs, Helaine French and Judy Zaks, Back by popular demand! we will celebrate a multi-generation “L’Dor V’Dor” Shabbat on Friday evening, Jan. 19, with dinner at 5:30 followed by Building Jerusalem on Tu BShevat an erev Shabbat service at 7. Building Blocks Lego Workshop At the end of January, we will celebrate of Tu B’Shevat, the Birthday of the Trees, marking the beginning of spring in Sunday Jan :: am Israel with the blossoming of the almond trees. On this holiday we express our appreciation for trees for their beauty, Architect Stephen shade, and how they enhance the health of our environment. Schwartz will lead The tree as metaphor — with its deep roots in the ground and this family activity its branches reaching to the sky — speaks to me of our family histories. DNA aside, what I believe truly adds to one’s fam- for kindergartners ily heritage are the roots that anchor us in our community, the through fifthgraders sprouting branches of shared experiences, and the buds that and their parents signal the joy of blossoming for the future. In celebrating our CAI family tree, stories Thanks to the generosity are told of the rich past, moments are made in of the Sol and Martha the active present, and a Rogoff Childrens Fund legacy is built for a B’Shalom, we will build a Jewish vibrant future. memory together! Susan Werk Educational Director

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SPECIAL DATES Mitzvah Madness Tuesday, Jan. 2: All classes resume Justin Eisenberg’s Mitzvah Project Friday, Jan. 5, 5:30 p.m.: Shabbat in PJs and Sweats, Tuesday, Jan. 9, 4-7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 15: ECC & Extended Day closed, For all 6th, 7th, & 8th graders Martin Luther King Day Please join me to volunteer at the Community Foodbank Friday, Jan. 19, 7 p.m.: L’Dor V’Dor Multi-Generation of NJ in Hillside, a central location where donated food is Shabbat; dinner, 5:30 p.m., family-friendly service, 7 distributed to charities that feed the needy. We will sort the food for distribution. It would be great if you also Saturday, Jan. 27, 8 p.m.: Young Couples’ Cocktail Party brought a canned protein food to add to the collections. Sunday, Jan. 28, 9:30 a.m.: Building Blocks Jerusalem A bus will leave CAI at 4 p.m., return by 7. Wear warm clothing, bring Lego Workshop gloves, and eat before the trip. RSVP to [email protected]. Torah Pillar: Every Age and Every Stage of Jewish Learning Programs for all Agudath Israel day school and religious school students and adults Early Childhood Center Teens (Ninth-Twelfth Grade) Tuesday, Jan. 2: ECC 2s, 3s, and 4s, classes resume Wednesdays are Teen Nights at CAI: Pizza & Shmooze, Friday, Jan. 5: Shabbat in Sweats and PJs, 5:30 p.m. Current Issues, Modern Hebrew, and more Monday, Jan. 15: ECC & Extended Day closed, MLK Day Wednesday, Jan. 3: Teen Night, 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 19: L’Dor V’Dor Multi-Generation Shabbat; Wednesday, Jan. 10: Teen Night, 6 p.m., USY Zumba, 7:45 p.m. dinner, 5:30 p.m.; family-friendly service, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 17: Teen Night, 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27: Young couples’ cocktail party, 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 19: L’Dor V’Dor Multi-Generation Shabbat; Sunday, Jan. 28: Jerusalem Legos Workshop, 9:30 a.m. dinner, 5:30 p.m.; family-friendly service, 7 p.m. Al Gagalim, 9:30 a.m., Sunday, Jan. 21: Better Together, 10 a.m.; Primary (Kindergarten-Second Grade) Kadima event TBA Friday, Jan. 5: Shabbat in Sweats and PJs, 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 24: Teen Night, 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 19: L’Dor V’Dor Multi-Generation Shabbat; Wednesday, Jan. 31: Teen Night, 6 p.m. dinner, 5:30 p.m.; family-friendly service, 7 p.m. Adults Saturday, Jan. 27: Young couples’ cocktail party, 8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 8: Jews on the Chocolate Sunday, Jan. 28: Jerusalem Legos Workshop, 9:30 a.m. Trail meeting, Temple Emanu-El, NYC, Elementary School (Third-Fifth Grade) 10:45 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 2: All classes resume Tuesday, Jan. 16: Film in honor of MLK Day, “Joachim Prinz: I Shall Not Be Saturday, Jan. 6: Torah Chug, 10:15 a.m. Silent,” 7:45 p.m. Friday, Jan. 19: L’Dor V’Dor Multi-Generation Shabbat; Wednesday, Jan. 17: Women’s Rosh dinner, 5:30 p.m.; family-friendly service, 7 p.m. Chodesh Group, home of Abby Meth Saturday, Jan. 20: Torah Chug 10:15, Camp Shabbat 11 a.m., Kanter Chalutzim Event – Movie Night p.m. Friday, Jan. 19: L’Dor V’Dor Multi- Saturday, Jan. 27: Religious School Family Service, 11 a.m. Generation Shabbat; dinner, 5:30 Young couples’ cocktail party, 8 p.m. p.m.; family-friendly service, 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 28: Jerusalem Legos Workshop, 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 31: CAI Environ- Middle School (Sixth-Eighth Grade) mental Committee film: “An Incon- Tuesday, Jan. 2: All classes resume venient Sequel,” 7:45 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 6: Torah Chug, 10:15 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 9: Mitzvah Madness trip to food bank, 4-7 p.m. Adult Education Classes Friday, Jan. 19: L’Dor V’Dor Multi-Generation Shabbat; Mondays, Jan. 8, 22, 29, at 10 a.m. dinner, 5:30 p.m.; family-friendly service, 7 p.m. Rabbi Michael Jay Saturday, Jan. 20: Torah Chug, 10:15; Camp Shabbat, 11 a.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 2, 9, 23, 30, at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 21: Better Together, 10 a.m.; Nancy Caplan Kadima event (TBA) Wednesdays, Jan. 3, 10, 17, at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 27: Religious School Family Service, 11 a.m. Rabbi Alan Silverstein Young couples’ cocktail party, 8 p.m. Thursdays, Jan. 4, 11, 18, 25, at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 28: Jerusalem Legos Workshop, 9:30 a.m. Rabbi Silverstein and Susan Werk

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The 2017-18 Annual Fund: Mid-Year Report Congregation Agudath Israel gratefully acknowledges the many generous supporters whose gifts or pledges were made during the first half of the 2017-18 year. The impact of the Annual Fund is evident in all that CAI does to engage its members spiritually, socially, culturally, and academically. By providing much-needed resources, the Annual Fund enables our clergy, staff, and lay leaders to grow the synagogue’s capacity to teach, nurture, advocate, and inspire. Donors who support the Annual Fund are united by their passion for CAI and its many Michael E. Bressman important functions. We are proud to acknowledge their generosity at all levels, and pay tribute to their inspiring commitment to preserving and building on a community that benefits us all.

Builders $25,000 Jane & Ned Gladstein

Sustainers $10,000 - $24,999 CAI DEVELOPMENT Bernard Greene Marlene & Gad Janay Blanche & Irwin Lerner Mindy & Alex Opper Beatrice & Nathan Taubenfeld Gayle & Larry Wieseneck

Pillars $5,000 - $9,999 Benefactors $2,500 - $4,999 Judy & Steven Elbaum Jean & Ben Alter Daryl & Andrew Epstein Shannon & Louis Drogin Lianne & Stanley Gulkin Karen & Ted Eisenberg Karen & Kenneth Rosen Bonnie & Richard Fertel Paula & David Saginaw Jayne & Victor Nhaisi Randi & Murray Spiegel Lisa Hochman & Marc Rudoltz

The Scherzer Family Helene & Gary Wingens

Patrons $1,000 - $2,499

Kerry & Matthew Atlas Marsha & Burton Henry Jeanne & Joseph Samet Lynda & Craig Brown Judy Levenstein & Phil Kruger Gail & Bruce Shapiro Cantor Joel & Nancy Caplan Jean & Mark Mandell Rabbi Alan & Rita Silverstein Greta & Ira Cohen Michele & Jonathan Mehl Ami & Andy Talkow Linda & Leslie Elfenbein Debbie & Stuart Rabner Nina & Arnold Wasserman Anita & Edward Finkel Deborah & Scott Rosen Susan Werk Helaine & Richard French Alison & Stuart Rosenthal Sylvia Gladstein Marcia Blacksin & Mitchell Rubinstein

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Sponsors $500 - $999 Jordan & Joseph Shumofsky Orna Rappoport & David Moses Anonymous (1) Lori & Jerry Solomon Helaine & Michael Mund Robin & Stephen Abrams Rhoda & Merrill Stern Shari & Charles Ornstein Lisa & Andrew Abramson Sue & Donald Weinberger Mindy Goldstein & Irwin Palefsky Naomi & Sam Adelberg Sandy & Jim Weintraub Renee & Joel Reiser Robin & William Antoshkiw Rabbi Steven & Jody Wernick Nogah & Bruce Revesz Irma & Peter Berman The Wertheim Family Julie & Brett Rosen Brenda & Lawrence Boss Cynthia & David Wormser Sheryl & Joseph Rosenthal Shari & Jeffrey Bricker Lucille Zonis Lila Rubin Anne & Howard Luria Burg Judith Fabricant & Rabbi David Saltzman Anne & Marvin Elmowitz Friends $250 - $499 Renee & Herman Savitz Jill & David Feder Anonymous (2) Debra & James Schenkel Michele & Jason Frieder Rosalind & Irv Benedon Deborah Schwenk Phyllis & Marvin Friedman Gail & David Black Carole & Paul Shapiro Sharon & Aaron Glauberg Phyllis & Martin Bochner Arthur Sherman Judith & Michael Gould Arthur Bocian Joan & Mark Shufro Andrea & Stephen Granet Rosanne & Ira Bornstein The Sperling Family Susan & Franklin Gurtman Cindy & Edward Braverman Jennifer Trauman Judith Rosenberg & Randall Haase Gail & Leo Bressman Abby & Harry Vine Alice & Steven Hirsh Michael Bressman Carol Berman & Richard Waxman Steve & Debbie Holinstat & Family Selma Brookman Pamela Fertel Weinstein & Marc Ruth Jaffe & Paul Horowitz Manny Eijadi Weinstein The Boshak/Kotlewski Family Samantha & Seth Fliegler Amy & Scott Lewin Marlene & Robert Freeman Supporters $249 and under Sharon & Michael Liebert Stacey & Michael Gold Anonymous (5) Jeanette Paktor & Alfred Mahler Susan Goldberg Margo & Gregory Adelsberg Etta & Froman Mehl Sharon & Rabbi Richard Hammerman Tikva & Eli Bakal Carol R. Morman Kevin & Jackie Haney Iris Bashi Nancy Moskowitz Evelyn & Gary Kabler Shelley & Serge Ben Nathan Joel Nitzberg Abby & Randy Kanter Arlene & Melvin Berkowitz Marjorie & Barry Nydick Gail & Max Kleinman Debra & Michael Berwald Carol & Harris Nydick Ann & Seth Leeb Joan Billig Michele & Larry Raiken Valerie & Edward Levy Stanley Blank Marjorie & Keith Remland Stacey & Morris Lewis Susan & Richard Blender Cindy & Joseph Roth Jill & Richard Lichtig Irene Blumberg Laura & Glenn Sacks Erica & Glenn Lieberman Miwako & Michael Chiaet Jill & Stewart Schneck Erica & Daniel Lotto Beth & Robert Daniel Harriet Sepinwall & Jeffrey Rosenberg Linda & Israel Majzner Lori Deitch Michele & Brad Shiffman Lori Fuchs-Meyers & Adam Meyers Amy Dell

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Roberta Diamond Jessica & Steve Jacobs Lisa & Evan Robbins Nina & Alan Egger Natalie James Marilyn Rose Rachel & Lee Ehudin Esther & Steven Kamenetsky Ellen & Robert Rosen Susan & Steven Eisen Eileen Dombrowsky & Harold Kaplan Susan & Jack Rosenkranz Neal Eisner Ellen & Marc Kaplan Carol & Mark Rothstein Michelle Zeman & Howard Feiwus Melissa & Glenn Kesh June & Leonard Rudin Roberta Ferrara Tammy Anagnostis Klein & Rob, Talia, Renee Sachs and Jaiden Klein Annette & Joseph Fine Karen & Stephen Sandler Frances & Ben Larkey Anne & Raymond Fogelson Marion & Leslie Savoy Risa & Mannie Levi Joyce & Bruce Freeman Bonnie & Steven Schwartzman Nancy & Howard Levine Beatrice Freiheiter Nancy & Bruce Scott Zena & John Lisa Joan & Myron Freling Estelle & Paul Seligman Elaine & Arnold Litt Debra Gallanter Debby & Oliver Shapiro Regina & Isaac Manevitz Lois & Norman Gebeloff Terry Sherman Robin & Matthew Mangino Jordana Geldziler Diane & Alan Sklar Lauren & Stuart Markon Andrea & Jason Gendel Ken Slutsky Diane & Harvey Moskowitz Barbara & Jerry Gessner Stephanie Bash-Soudry & Michael Beth & Mark Muenster Soudry Amy & Alexander Glickman Roberta & Norman Mulkowsky Edna & Charles Stone Marvin Glickman Sheila Nathanson Allison & Jeffrey Stupak Lisa & Brad Greenbaum Meryl Natter Fay Susskind Arlene Grodsky Lori Freudenberger-Nelson & Richard Cindy & Alan Swartz David Grossman & Alix Rubin Nelson Susan Turitz Marci & Kenneth Gruber Robert Perelman Celeste & Barrie Werfel Marcia & David Gurian Saundra & Michael Podell The Wiederhorn Family Judith & Jess Haberman Sybil Preisler Judy & Allen Zaks Beverly Hecht Diane & David Reidenberg Susan & David Zylberger Adele Hochheiser

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MavenChef Agudath: The Sequel

Battle of the Babaga-Nosh

An Israeli Food Cooking Competition at CAI, celebrating the 70th birthday of Israel!

Multiple Teams, 3 Judges, 1 Winner Come see your favorite CAI staff and friends cook for the title of “MavenChef Agudath.” Teams of 4-6 members, representing ALL ages and stages (children to seniors). During a timed competition, each team will be required to create a snack, dish or dessert inspired by Israeli food for the judges and spectators.

Bring the Whole Family to Cheer on your Favorite Team, Taste Some Food and Enjoy!

Mark your calendars… Sunday Afternoon

March 11, 2018

If you would like to participate in the planning of this event, field a team or have any questions, please contact Cindy Goldstein at (201) 320-0017 or [email protected] PAGE 13 CONGREGATION AGUDATH ISRAEL OF WEST ESSEX

Continued from page 6

This "conversation" changes each time they take the stage, with no melody sounding quite the same as it did before. It's unabashedly American music, Andy says, proud of his U.S. roots, and the spirit of individuality, creativity and compassion it embodies. Or it's deeply religious hasidic prayer, intended to embrace his Jewish heritage, he explains in a soft voice. And it's jazz, he'd say, on its lonely search for the spirit of lost worlds. It's all of those things, because, although they may seem worlds apart, "They all come together in me. If you're in touch with your Judaism," Andy says, his voice cracking, "you experience things..." He is misty by now, and it is clear that this is a man who always speaks and plays from the very roots of his soul. From Andy Statman’s website (http://www.andystatman.org), adapted from Sara Eisen’s essay in the Jerusalem Report. ------Thanks to Randi and Murray Spiegel for producing this concert! Hope to see you there! – Cantor Joel Caplan

Yesterday. Today. Tomorrow.

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When parents understand the process and approach to learning, they can truly be partners with us in the education of their children. On December 7th, we gathered for a workshop dedicated to educating parents about literacy learning in our school. A presentation was made that explained how early communication begins and how children use language. From there we went into a summary of how teachers in the twos, the threes and the fours promote the skills Geula Zamist necessary to enter kindergarten as a confident and competent learner. Just as a building depends on a deep strong foundation, so too, our children’s ability to be successful readers depends on a strong foundation of early skills. A careful thought out curriculum follows the continuum of skills that children should acquire at each age. When done properly we can assure that children always have a joy of reading and learning. Following the presentation, parents had ample time to visit the detailed displays prepared by the teachers. Each teaching team highlighted different literacy skills that are encouraged and stressed in their classroom. The teachers worked hard and were delighted to share the examples and evidence of best practice in their rooms. In our school we value families appreciating the WHY of what we do. This evening gave us the chance to share that with the parents. EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER CHILDHOOD CENTER EARLY We look forward to the second curriculum night in the spring on April 26 when we will focus on STEM learning in the Early Childhood Center.

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The Interfaith and Social Action Committees Invite you to a Film Screening in Commemoration of MLK Day

Please join on us on Tuesday, January 16, at 7:45 pm for a viewing of “Joachim Prinz: I Shall Not be Silent” at CAI. The documentary traces the life of Rabbi Prinz, who first gained fame as a leading rabbi in 1930’s Berlin, before immigrating to America with the rise of Nazism in Germany. Here in New Jersey, he served for many years as the Rabbi at B’nai Abraham, while still in Newark. His sermons were prized throughout the Jewish community, and it was considered a privilege to attend. Having seen Hitler’s ascension first hand, and understanding the disastrous impact of demagoguery coupled with anti-Semitism, Rabbi Prinz instructed, by his own deeds, that Judaism cannot abide discrimination by retreating to the sanctuary. He became an activist beyond the confines of the Jewish community. Nor was his learning limited to Jewish texts. He had a P.h.D. in philosophy and had minored in art history. Rabbi Prinz was a close confidant of Martin Luther King, Jr. As president of the American Jewish Congress, he organized for the March on Washington in 1963. He spoke immediately prior to Dr. King giving his famous “I have a dream” speech. Rabbi Prinz’ address was widely acclaimed at the time, and since. Rabbi Prinz is remembered, among his many insightful remarks, for his profound observation that in the face of discrimination, “the most urgent, the most disgraceful, the most shameful and the most tragic problem is silence.” Today, when white supremacists feel empowered to march in our cities, and new instances of the misuse of power for sexual degradation are revealed daily, Rabbi Prinz’s story – his words and his actions -- his profoundly Jewish life -- are particularly instructive. For more information on Rabbi Prinz and to read the transcript of his March on Washington speech, please see the website at http://joachimprinz.com/index.htm. We hope you will join us for this important and inspirational documentary about this righteous man. Please register for this program on the events page of Agudath.org. INTERFAITH AND SOCIAL ACTION COMMITTEES AND SOCIAL ACTION INTERFAITH

Did you know that we use Facebook to post pictures, events, and updates? Don’t miss out on CAI news!

https://www.facebook.com/ CongregationAgudathIsrael.Caldwell.NJ

PAGE 16 WWW.AGUDATH.ORG JANUARY 2018

BE A PART OF SISTERHOOD SHABBAT IN 2018! JANUARY 27, 2018 Please note that Sisterhood Shabbat is Saturday, January 27, 2018. Parsha B'Shallach those who wish to participate are encouraged to contact Sharon Hammerman at [email protected] or Judy Levenstein at [email protected] who is coordinating Torah readers. Our guest speaker will be Anna Silverman. Anna is originally from Poland and is currently studying to be a Cantor at JTS. She has been to CAI with Cantor Caplan previously and has shared both her story and her beautiful voice with us. Sisterhood Shabbat will be another opportunity for us to hear her voice and be inspired by the story of her immigration and what she has accomplished since arriving in America several years ago. Anna Katarzyna Silverman is a 4th year student at H. L. Miller Cantorial School at the Jewish Theological Seminary. Prior to coming to JTS, Anna studied at the Bulgarian State Conservatoire in Sofia, and holds a Master of Arts from the Music Academy in Warsaw. Born and raised in Warsaw, Poland, she learned from her mother that she was Jewish quite late in life. She started to actively pursue Judaism at Beit Warszawa progressive Jewish congregation in 2010. In 2012, she graduated from the European Jewish Studies Institute PAIDEIA in Stockholm, Sweden.

SISTERHOOD SHABBAT In addition to her cantorial talents, Anna is a gifted jazz singer, having studied with prominent Polish jazz musicians as well as teachers from the Berkley College of Music. Anna is a mother of two daughters (30 and 20), and an interpreter of Polish, English, German and Russian.

The Men’s Club Texas Hold’em tournament took place on Tuesday, December 5. The winner, and recipient of two tickets to the Thursday, January 18 Devil’s game was our own Mike Chiaet. He was as surprised as we were. The event was a great success with 18 participants. It lasted well past 10:00 pm in an epic battle between Mike and Stuart Markon (who took over for one of the other players who had to run to his son’s aid.) I just wanted to remind you all to come Sunday, January 7, 2018 and bleed for our annual blood drive. It is truly the gift that saves lives. Our next Men’s Club meeting will be Wednesday, January 10. Please come if you are available.

MEN’S CLUB Our night at the Prudential Center for N.J. Devil’s hockey game is Thursday, January 18. Please contact David Moses for tickets. It is always a great event. We hope everyone had (will have, depending when you read this) a great New Year and a Happy Chanukah . Alfie Mahler, President

PAGE 17 CONGREGATION AGUDATH ISRAEL OF WEST ESSEX

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796 Northfield Avenue (Corner of Old Short Hills Road) West Orange (973) 736 7647 WWW.BZOPTICIANS.COM PAGE 18 WWW.AGUDATH.ORG JANUARY 2018 Reflections – 6-Month Checkpoint I am often asked how things are going since I assumed the role of CAI President. I thought it might be nice to share some thoughts and feelings now that I have had time to settle into the role.

If I had to choose one word to describe how I feel, it would be…proud.

• Proud to represent CAI within and outside our congregation

• Proud of our professionals, administrative team, the Board of Trustees, and other Victor Nhaisi volunteers for their commitment to our programs and new initiatives • Proud of the many ways our lay leaders and congregants bring innovation to CAI

• Proud of our Bar and Bat Mitzvah children who seem to enlighten us each time we celebrate their special occasion

In the past 6 months, some of my best days are those linked to something special that happened at CAI. I may start keeping a journal, so that I can remember these days in the years to come.

FROM THE PRESIDENT FROM It didn’t take long for me to embrace the new role, as I immediately saw how so many of our congregants were willing to contribute to our collective goals. I could go on with pages of examples but here are just a few:

• Yom Kippur – Both the Cantor and Rabbi lose their voice. The most complex service of the year goes on with- out a hitch as members step up to lead various parts of the service.

• National Donor Shabbat – A fourteen-year-old heart transplant recipient inspires a packed Shabbat service with his personal story, likely resulting in many new donors, each who could save 10 or more lives.

• Environmental Committee secures Nigel Savage, CEO of Hazon, a leading Jewish environmental organization, to speak at CAI. His sermon and lecture highlights how our Jewish community can impact sustainability and as a result enlists many more committee members.

• Scholarly Education program hits a home run inviting Professor John Collins, of Yale Divinity School, for a weekend lecture series on Messianic thinking. Concurrently on that Shabbat, Professor Collins leads a scholarly study group in the Toby Shapiro Library, Susan Werk and Erica Rabner lead an interactive family service in the Taubenfeld Chapel, and Karen Frank leads Shabbat meditation in our multi-purpose room. All groups then come together in our Werb Sanctuary for Musaf and Kiddush. THIS IS WHAT MAKES CAI SPECIAL!

I am very encouraged with the progress we are making on our priorities around membership engagement.

• The Erlichman film screenings provide access to award-winning Israeli films enabling us to have our own “Sundance” film festival multiple times per year.

• Knesset member and former Israeli Ambassador to US, Michael Oren, and author Rabbi Naomi Levy bring out hundreds of members for their respective speaking events.

• The Men’s Club has engaged a younger demographic, making Tequila in the Sukkah a standing-room-only event and contributing to more members than ever attending the Man of the Year event honoring Josh Henry.

• Our new committees focused on the early empty nester demographic and improving our website are shaping their plans for the second half of the year.

continued on page 31

PAGE 19 CONGREGATION AGUDATH ISRAEL OF WEST ESSEX MAHJONG MADNESS Sunday, March 18, 2018 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Join us for our annual Mahjong event. A wonderful event with all ages and abilities. Know how to play? Give a lesson. Don’t know how to play? Someone will teach you and everyone can all share in the fun and laughter!

A very special thank you to all of our committees for their assistance in providing our community with some of our special events: CAI Cocktail Party: 2018 Super Bowl Shabbat Committee Becky & Ari Berman Co-Chairs: Carrie Bobroff and Lauren Krinsky Suzanne & Howard Brock Rachel & Mark Davis Committee: Tammy & Bobby Epstein Becky and Ari Berman Alexis Gruber & Matt Fischer Jenn and Nathan Dany Debbie & Scott Rosen Shani and Louis Drogin Jordan & Joseph Shumofsky Dorie and Seth Eisenstein Samantha & Ofer Steinberg Lindsay and Jordan Farkas Allison & Jeffrey Stupak Stacey and Michael Gold Jill & Jeffrey Weinstock Jackie and Larry Gutman Jackie and Kevin Haney Limor and David Karpatkin Shira and Joe Kelmanovich Tammy Anagnostis Klein and Rob Klein Mindy and Alex Opper Lauren and Seth Pasternack Meredith and Dan Roig Rachel and Keith Schultz Allegra and Michael Simon Nicole and Josh Slavitt Melissa and Eric Sobel Jill and Matthew Sohn Erin and Michael Willner

PAGE 20 WWW.AGUDATH.ORG JANUARY 2018

On October 29 several members of our congregation attended the first ever community genealogy and family history day that was hosted by our friends at the Church of Latter Day Saint’s in North Caldwell. The event included a presentation by Mr. Adam Kanciper, a Genealogist who specializes in Jewish Family History. He gave an interesting lecture on how DNA is used in finding family members. The Caldwell Family History Center at 209 Mountain Ave. is free and open to the community. It is open on Tuesdays from 9am-12pm & 7pm to 9pm. Thursday’s 9am-12pm & Saturday’s 9am-12pm. To schedule an appointment you can call 973-226-8975 and request a separate time. The Church has extensive resources and that we can use in searching our family history. I am planning on inviting Adam to speak at CAI next year. We are currently in the middle of a lecture series being given by Rabbi Gerald L. Zelizer. The series covers “Why is Religion So Violent and What Can We Do About it?” We had over 50 participants from our shul attend the first lecture at CAI on July 26th, the Notre Dame Church held the second lecture on November 15 and the final lecture will be held on the evening of March 14, 2018 at Peace Islands in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ. Check our Tuesday email blasts for the specific time. The class covers sources of hostility and exclusivity in the three Abrahamic religions. Rabbi Zelizer has been discussing what we can do to reform the violence through lecture, study material, DVR programming, and class discussion. We are also in the planning stages of our annual interfaith scholar speaker series in partnership with the First Presbyterian Church in Caldwell. In addition to having two Christian professors, who will be our teachers and guests May 17-19, 2018, we will be hosting a delegation of 17 German Lutherans from Hanover Germany to engage with members of our synagogue in interfaith learning for the entire weekend. We are all looking forward to this very exciting weekend. I will provide more details as the date gets closer. We have been invited to participate in an interfaith book club discussion at the Notre Dame Roman Catholic

INTERFAITH COMMITTEE INTERFAITH Church in North Caldwell on the evening of January 14, 2018. The book “When Breath Becomes Air”, by Paul Kalanithi is an inspiring memoir that finds hope and beauty in the face of “What makes a life worth living?” will be discussed. Glenn Sacks – Interfaith Co-Chair [email protected]

PAGE 21 CONGREGATION AGUDATH ISRAEL OF WEST ESSEX

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PAGE 22 WWW.AGUDATH.ORG JANUARY 2018

The CAI Environmental Committee sponsored Nigel Savage as Shabbat speaker on October 28. Nigel is Founder and head of HAZON, engaging Jews in honoring our commitment to sustain the environment. Nigel inspired many, and the Committee gained several new members! Committee members are working on several programs and projects, including:

*planning a weekend/Shabbat environmental retreat for families and individuals (for "every age and stage") in collaboration with the Social Action Committee. *new environmental experiences and resources for the ECC and Religious School, planned in collaboration with the CAI Education Department. *investigating practices of other Conservative synagogues that have been able to set up an “environmentally friendly" kiddush." *applying to have our synagogue recognized with GREEN FAITH ENERGY SHIELD certification (and also investigating gaining the HAZON SUSTAINABILITY certification).

SAVE THE DATE! TU B'SHEVAT PROGRAM! Wednesday, January 31, 2018, at 7:45 pm. Screening of film "AN ENVIRONMENTAL SEQUEL" followed by discussion. Sponsored by the CAI Environmental Committee with Co-sponsorship by the Caldwell Interfaith Community and Caldwell Hadassah. Refreshments. No charge. To register, go to the Events page of: www.agudath.org. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE ENVIRONMENTAL

Contact Co-Chairpersons Harriet Sepinwall, [email protected], or Linda Lowenthal, [email protected], if you’d like to join the Committee or have any questions.

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PAGE 23 CONGREGATION AGUDATH ISRAEL OF WEST ESSEX

Sponsored by Congregation Agudath Israel Environmental Committee and Co-Sponsored with Caldwell Hadassah and the Caldwell Interfaith Community

Wednesday, January 31, 2018 at 7:45 p.m."Tu B'shevat"

Screening, followed by Discussion: Honoring our commitment to sustain the environment....

This program is provided FREE OF CHARGE Please RSVP on the events page of Agudath.org.

REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED

PAGE 24Congregation Agudath Israel (Adult Lounge) 20 Academy Rd., Caldwell, NJ 07006 WWW.AGUDATH.ORG JANUARY 2018

Help For the Winter Blues: Give Yourself A Tree of Life Shalom! “I speak for the trees,” said the Lorax. Along with Dr. Seuss, so do I, as does an endless list of experts including the Mayo Clinic, Psychology Today, National Institute of Mental Health, APA Diagnostic and Statistical Manual……………….. The glowing lights of the menorah are now a fond memory, as our attention is turned to cloudy skies, winter chills and snowy boots. Hibernation is a temptation, when our circadian rhythms seem to lose their beat, and the search for serotonin and melatonin in our brains comes up short. Andrea Malmud How do we know if we’re subject to winter blues or clinical depression? Now that January is upon us, let’s first look at a checklist, to notice signs of winter blues or clinical depression in ourselves, parents, spouses, teens, children: • Feeling of sadness or depressed mood • Marked loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed • Changes in appetite; usually eating more, craving carbohydrates CAI SOCIAL WORKER • Change in sleep; usually sleeping too much • Loss of energy or increased fatigue despite increased sleep hours • Increase in restless activity or slowed movements and speech • Feeling worthless or guilty • Trouble concentrating or making decisions • Thoughts of death or suicide or attempts at suicide (this one always, always, always requires a professional assessment) Winter Blues vs. Clinical Depression, seasonal or otherwise: this is a matter of severity. For example, wanting to linger in bed may be the blues, whereas staying in bed and missing school or work may be a sign of something more serious that requires professional help. What to do: In spite of the dreariness, the treasures of nature are waiting outside our front doors to offer healing. Visit one tree or many, maybe even an evergreen here and there. Sitting on a park bench, going for a walk: it’s all good. Research shows us time and time again that nature, year round, helps to regulate our emotional states. Even spending time outside on a cloudy day will help us. Dos and Don’ts, some of which we do indoors too (yes, the following will seem obvious but please indulge my wish to keep you safe): Do: • Dress in layers • Wear reflective clothing if it’s dark or cloudy • Hydrate • Speak to your doctor if you have concerns about being outside in winter, or if there’s a risk of skin cancer. The winter sky still brings us UV rays. • Plan physical activities (there’s that doctor again) • Socialize • Find the funny • Eat properly

PAGE 25 CONGREGATION AGUDATH ISRAEL OF WEST ESSEX

• Do any of the above if it’s too icy/snowy/windy/ You’re always welcome to call me to discuss any of freezing…………. the above. And maybe even step outside for a walk together. The conifers of Caldwell await! • Overdo it. As Jews, we tend to be highly motivated. This is good. As long as we’re safe. Speaking of Treasures Andrea Malmud, LCSW What do we have, here in Essex County? Your friendly JFS Zeller Family Social Work Consultant reminder…A wonderful park system that includes the [email protected] Turtle Back Zoo (it’s soooo not just for children), Mini Golf, South Mountain Reservation. And there’s our own 973-226-3600 ext.143 front door and backyards. If nature, exercise, and so forth are not working for you or your family members, seek professional help sooner rather than later in the form of talk therapy and possibly antidepressant medication, such as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). CAI SOCIAL WORKER CONT. CAI SOCIAL WORKER

ADULT EDUCATION IN JANUARY AT CAI The Ethical Life: Jewish Values in an Age of Choice A Turnkey Curriculum in Jewish Ethics from JTS From political and financial scandals to rapid progress in biomedical science and technology, the complex issues of modern society are, at their core, issues of ethical and moral concern. Now more than ever, we require a solid understanding of how Jewish ethics can inform our discussions and decisions about the critical questions of the day. Judaism has a long history of wrestling with moral questions, responding to them in a way that considers all sides of an issue. Instructor: Rabbi Michael Jay Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Dates: Monday, January 8, 22, 29 Location: Frank Nathanson Adult Lounge Cost: Free Tuesday Adult Ed with Nancy Caplan 9:15 - 10:15 am: Conversational Hebrew Advance Beginner to Intermediate level 10:30 - 11:40 am: Text and Coffee – Torah text through many lenses. Together let’s explore Torah text with an eye towards how it can be interpreted by different, sometimes conflicting approaches: from ancient to modern from Jewish to other religions. We will begin with the book of Exodus. 1:00 - 2:00 pm: Where and When - Looking at where and when laws and customs originated. Is it ancient or modern, and where in the world did it begin? ADULT EDUCATION ADULT Instructor: Nancy Caplan Dates: January 23, 30; February 6, 13, 27; March 6, 13, 20; April 10, 17, 24; May 1 Location: Conference Room in the Toby Shapiro Library, Learning and Conference Center Cost Per Class: $120 CAI member, $240 non-member - for either one of the above classes Wednesdays With Rabbi Silverstein 10:00 am - Book of Job; Why Do Good People Suffer? 11:00 am - Great Zionist Thinkers – Herzel, Ahad Ha’am, A.D. Gordon, Jabotinsky, Louis Brandeis, Eliezer Ben Yehuda and others Instructor: Rabbi Silverstein Dates: Wednesdays, March 7, 14, 21, 28; April 11, 18, 25; May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Location: Conference Room in the Toby Shapiro Library, Learning and Conference Center Cost: Free for CAI members, $240 non-member per semester PAGE 26 WWW.AGUDATH.ORG JANUARY 2018

Thursdays With Rabbi Silverstein and Susan Werk 9:30 am - Rabbi Silverstein presents: Contemporary Jewish Thinkers, Musicians, Artists. Periodic session with Cantor Joel Caplan and CAI artists 10:30 am - Susan Werk presents: The Drama of King David and How It Relates To Contemporary Issues. Taught through text, art and literature Instructors: Rabbi Silverstein and Susan Werk Dates: January 4, 11, 18, 25; February 1, 8, 22; March 1, 8, 15, 22; April 12, 19, 26; May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Location: Conference Room in the Toby Shapiro Library, Learning and Conference Center Cost: Free for CAI members, $480 non-member

Tuesday, January 16 at 7:45 pm - Film in honor of MLK Jr. Day “Joachim Prinz: I shall Not be Silent” Wednesday, January 17 - Women’s Rosh Chodesh Group (Place TBA) Friday, January 19 - Multi-Generation Shabbat “L’Dor V’Dor”Shabbat Dinner 5:30 pm; Family Friendly Shabbat Service, 7:00 pm Wednesday, January 31 - CAI Environmental Committee film: “An Inconvenient Sequel” 7:45 pm

Adult Education Trip:

Monday, January 8 - “Jews on the Chocolate Trail” Herbert and Eileen Bernard Museum of Judaica at Temple Emanu-El in NYC Register: On the events page of Agudath.org. Registration will open one month prior to the trip. What do you currently know about the intersection of Jewish life and chocolate? For example, the liquid delicacy that inquisition-era Sephardi Jews introduced to France, or the 19th-century Viennese boychik’s invention that went on to become the Austrian “It” dessert, aka Sachertorte. Yes, there are hundreds of years of chocolate-swirled Jewish history that you probably haven’t had the pleasure of sinking your teeth into…yet. Register on the events page of Agudath.org.

Shabbat Meditation Begin Shabbat in stillness. Shabbat is the time for quieting, stepping back from the hectic workday world, and entering a time of peacefulness and communion with nature and spirit. Begin your Shabbat with meditation on ten Saturday mornings this year. You will feel a sense of peace, tranquility, and awareness that will enhance your Shabbat experience. Instructor: Karen Frank, RN, Congregational Nurse Time: Saturdays at 9:30 am Dates: January 6, February 3, March 3, April 14, May 5, and June 2 Location: Conference Room in the Toby Shapiro Library, Learning and Conference Center

PAGE 27 CONGREGATION AGUDATH ISRAEL OF WEST ESSEX

The Andy Statman Trio Saturday, February 10, 2018 7:45 pm Desserts 8:30 pm Concert

at Congregation Agudath Israel 20 Academy Road, Caldwell, NJ

Andy Statman's music expands the boundaries of traditional and improvisational forms. He is a National Endowment of the Arts Award recipient and Grammy nominee. Statman has appeared on more than 100 recordings, playing with Itzhak Perlman, Bob Dylan, and the Grateful Dead, just to name a few. His skill and versatility on mandolin and clarinet will astound you.

"Statman’s virtuosity has labeled him a genius by his peers" – Village Voice "One of the most important Jewish creative artists of the postwar era" – Jerusalem Post "No one else approaches the mandolin the way he does" – NPR "Andy Statman, clarinet and mandolin virtuoso, is an American visionary" – New Yorker

Listen to a sample of his music: tinyurl.com/StatmanSample

Get discounted seats now: Ages 20 and under: $15.00 / Adults: $25.00 by February 9th at noon Tickets at the door: $40.00

Purchase discounted tickets online: tinyurl.com/CAIStatman or Make checks payable to CAI and note 'Andy Statman' on the memo line Mail to CAI, 20 Academy Road, Caldwell, NJ 07006 Tel: (973) 226-3600

PAGE 28 WWW.AGUDATH.ORG JANUARY 2018 Saving the World Isn’t Easy.

Saving a Life Is. Community Blood Drive Sponsored By

Congregation Agudath Israel 20 Academy Road Caldwell, NJ

Sunday, January 7, 2018 9:00 am - 1:00 pm (inside set up)

Please bring a signed /picture ID.

Remember to eat before your donation time.

Must weigh at least 110 lbs.

For more information or appointment please contact: Community Blood Services at (201) 444-3900

To schedule your appointment just click on the link, select a desired time slot then click there, then follow the instructions. https://donor.cbsblood.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/46306

COMPLIMENTARY Cholesterol Screening To all blood donors!

A member of Blood Systems Family

PAGE 29 CONGREGATION AGUDATH ISRAEL OF WEST ESSEX Reaching over 1,000 families monthly in Essex County. THE VOICE 2017-2018 Advertising Contract

Size of Advertisement Rate for 10 months Individual Insertion

Business Card (1/8 page) $425 $60 Quarter Page (3.5 W X 4.5 H) $625 $80 Half Page (7 W X 4.5 H) $925 $110 Full Page (7 W X 9 H) $1,225 $160

The VOICE is published 10 times a year (from September to June) and offers information about religious, social, cultural programs/activities and our community. The VOICE is mailed to all members of our congregation, reaching 1,000 households, in the following townships: Caldwell, West Caldwell, North Caldwell, Livingston, Essex Fells, West Orange, Roseland, Fairfield, Montclair, Parsippany, and Montville. Each month the new publication is also posted on our website, www.agudath.org. If you would like to reach our members by advertising your service or product, we would be happy to assist you. Ad copy, 300 dpi, CMYK JPEG, TIF, EPS or PDF, should be emailed to our Communications Manager, Julie Othen, at [email protected]. All submissions must be received by the 5th of the preceding month for inclusion. If you have any questions regarding copy design, layout, or deadlines please feel free to contact us. For any questions regarding your payment or billing, please contact billing at [email protected]. Please make checks payable to CONGREGATION AGUDATH ISRAEL and mail to: Congregation Agudath Israel 20 Academy Road Caldwell, NJ 07006 Attn: VOICE If you do not have a graphic file of your ad copy, we would be happy to assist you. Please submit all material as a Word document to [email protected] and mail this completed form along with your payment.

Business Name Advertise with us and reach the community! Advertise with us and reach

Address

Telephone Email

Contact Name

Ad Size Number of Issues

Enclosed is my check for Date

Signed

PAGE 30 WWW.AGUDATH.ORG JANUARY 2018

Continued from page 19

• The Early Childhood Center committee is looking at new ways to market our school and connecting ECC families with broader synagogue activities.

• The Israel committee is focusing on activities that engage our younger members while continuing to raise funds to support important causes in the holy land.

• Adult Education trips are engaging a broader group of people and our weekly classes and lecture series continue to provide Jewish educational opportunities for our adult learners.

The second half of the year will be equally exciting as we focus our attention on selecting a second Rabbi to begin our transition into a dual-Rabbi operating model. We will also look to the results of our High Holiday survey to refine our priorities for this year and shape our strategy for next year and beyond.

Most of all, in these few short months I continue to be encouraged by those of you who introduce yourselves, share your ideas, and provide constructive feedback. I feel supported by you and I hope you feel the same.

Happy New Year MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT CONT. FROM MESSAGE

New Jersey Jewish Singles 45+

“Where Friendships Begin”

SAVE THE DATE

Food, Fun, & Mingle – Dessert Buffet

Sunday, March 4, 2:30 PM at CAI

- ADMISSION: $10.00 – RSVP Required

For information and to RSVP: contact Sue Grossbard at [email protected] or 973-226-3600, extension 145

PAGE 31 CONGREGATION AGUDATH ISRAEL OF WEST ESSEX

Hi, my name is Phil Vescio. I have a home hair care business. We travel to people’s homes and healthcare agencies, mostly for individuals who are restricted to their home. I would appreciate any referrals you can recommend. Please call me for more information!

PAGE 32 WWW.AGUDATH.ORG JANUARY 2018

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PAGE 33 CONGREGATION AGUDATH ISRAEL OF WEST ESSEX Through November 30. We gratefully acknowledge all who generously support Congregation Agudath Israel’s many programs by remembering and honoring friends and loved ones. Donations can be made on our website, www.agudath.org, or by sending a check to the synagogue office. Please call or email Allison Robinson, Member Services Assistant, at 973-226-3600 x110or [email protected], if you have any questions. Memorial Plaques Benjamin and Jeremy’s grandfather, Meyer In memory of Gilda Gordon IN MEMORY OF: Friedman • Jon Gordon • Phil Kruger and Judy Levenstein • Rabbi Stanley Bramnick, from his son, In memory of Beth Sackman and Edie Elliot Bramnick In memory of Mike Zonis Davidson’s mother, and Michael and Jenna • Lucille Zonis Sackman and Mitchell and Jason Epstein’s The Barry Rozman Technology Fund grandmother, Carol Davidson The CAI-Susan Werk’s Special Fund • Linda and Leslie Elfenbein In memory of Margie Rozman’s • Evelyn and Gary Kabler grandmother, Lola M. Goffried In honor of Eli Boshak’s Bar Mitzvah • Terry Jacobson • Margie Rozman • Heather Boshak and Paul Kotlewski In memory of Irv Benedon, husband of In memory of Margie Rozman’s mother-in- The CAI Tribute Fund Rosalind Benedon law, Bunny Rozman • Barry and Phyllis Bochner • Margie Rozman In honor of Peri Shandler’s Bat Mitzvah • Merrill and Rhoda Stern • Debbie and Stuart Rabner The CAI Library Fund • Marian Rothenberg In memory of Shani Drogin’s grandmother, and Nathan, Dina, and Ivie Drogin’s great- In memory of Sid Tartarkin’s wife, Marilyn In honor of Maya Schulman’s Bat Mitzvah grandmother, Molly Roth Tartarkin • Marian Rothenberg • Marsha and Alex Dayan • Barbara and Murray Dobro In honor of Eli Boshak’s Bar Mitzvah In memory of Abi Spierer’s father, and Jessica The CAI Religious School Scholarship Fund • Marian Rothenberg and Mikayla Spierer’s grandfather, Harold Littman In honor of Maya Schulman’s Bat Mitzvah In honor of the marriage of Howard Feiwus • Lisa Hochman and Marc Rudoltz TRIBUTES AND DONATIONS TRIBUTES • Ann, Seth, and Mora Leeb and Michelle Zeman’s daughter, Marissa Feiwus, to Ross Pollack The Cantor’s Discretionary Fund In honor of Peri Shandler’s Bat Mitzvah • Anita and Edward Finkel • Ann, Seth, and Mora Leeb • Noelle and David Rips In appreciation of Cantor Caplan • Dorie and Seth Eisenstein • Joan and Myron Freling • Michelle and Adam Shandler In honor of Gilad Shifrin’s Bar Mitzvah • Susan and Lenny Shapiro In honor of Peri Shandler’s Bat Mitzvah In honor of the wedding of Beth and Stuart • Sandy and Michael Podell Sackman’s son, Michael Sackman, to Rachel In memory of Toby Knopf, mother • Michelle and Adam Shandler Rothman of Debbie Weisleder and • Jill Block and Family g r a n d m o t h e r o f J o r d y n a n d D a n i e l l e In honor of Daniel’s Bar Mitzvah • J i l l a n d J e ff M a r c u s • Stacey and Michael Gold In memory of Seth Weisleder’s father and • Anita and Ed Finkel Jordyn and Danielle’s grandfather, Dr. Harry • Esther and Harry Kartus In honor of Eli Boshak’s Bar Mitzvah Weisleder • Heather Boshak and Paul Kotlewski • Jordan and Joseph Shumofsky In memory of Terry Sherman’s mother, Ruth Josephson In memory of David Koenig’s mother and The CAI Scholarly Adult Jewish Learning Fund • Debbie and Stuart Rabner Johanna and Scott’s grandmother, Shirley Koenig • Janet and Bob Markman In memory of Anita Elfenbein’s son and Les • Tammy and Bobby Epstein Elfenbein’s brother, Stuart Elfenbein In honor of Ian Mahler’s wedding • Lora Goldwater and Diana and Matthew In memory of Betty Hamburg and Edna • Phil Kruger and Judy Levenstein Trenk Strauss • Cathi Robinson In honor of Ben Alter’s special birthday In memory of Seth Weisleder’s father and • Phil Kruger and Judy Levenstein Jordyn and Danielle’s grandfather, Dr. Harry The George and Molly Kaplan Caring Fund Weisleder In honor of Judy Levenstein’s special birthday • Anita and Edward Finkel In honor of the marriage of Howard Feiwus • Beth and Robert Daniel • Jennifer and David Spindler and Michelle Zeman’s daughter, Marissa Feiwus to Ross Pollack In honor of the birth of Judy and John Craig’s In memory of Lea Wolff Rosenberg’s husband, • Jean and Benjamin Alter grandson, Daniel Cruise Jerry Rosenberg • Phil Kruger and Judy Levenstein • Blanche and Irwin Lerner In memory of Terry Sherman’s father, Arthur Josephson In memory of Sol Moglen’s wife and Deborah In memory of Neil Freeman’s mother and • Sally and Donald Garson Smith’s mother, Norma Moglen Jason, Natasha and Jeremy’s grandmother, • Phil Kruger and Judy Levenstein Violet Freeman In memory of Jack Rosenkranz’s sister, Sybil • Margot and Marc Schwartz Cohen In memory of Alix Rubin’s mother, Rae Rubin • Debbie and Michael Schofel • Arlene and Mel Berkowitz • Phil Kruger and Judy Levenstein In memory of David Koenig’s mother, and In memory of Beth Sackman and Edie In memory of Alan Rein’s mother, Miriam Rein Johanna and Scott’s grandmother, Shirley Davidson’s mother, and Michael and Jenna • Phil Kruger and Judy Levenstein Koenig Sackman and Mitchell and Jason Epstein’s • Lisa and Jay Baranker grandmother, Carol Davidson In memory of Abby Vine’s father and • Betty Gotchman and Family • Jean and Ben Alter

PAGE 34 WWW.AGUDATH.ORG JANUARY 2018

The Generation to Generation Fund • Joan Billig In memory of David Koenig’s mother and • Shari and Mitchell Broder Johanna and Scott’s grandmother, Shirley In honor of the Aufruf of Marissa Feiwus and • Shari and Charles Ornstein Koenig Ross Pollack • Seth and Lauren Pasternack • Karen and Ted Eisenberg • Heather Boshak and Paul Kotlewski • Melissa and Jonathan Kitchner • Lori and Adam Meyers The Israel Committee Fund In memory of Beth Sackman and Edie Davidson’s • Stacey and Michael Gold mother, and Michael and Jenna Sackman and • Jackie, Kevin, Julia and Ethan Haney In memory of David Lurie’s father and Sam and Mitchell and Jason Epstein’s grandmother, • Michelle and Carl Schaerf Michael Lurie’s grandfather, Arthur S. Lurie Carol Davidson • Debby and Jim Schenkel • Lucille Zonis • Loren and Mark Roth • Marcy and Marshall Pollack • Lauren and Seth Pasternack In memory of David Koenig’s mother and In memory of Shani Drogin’s grandmother, • Dawn and Steven Lee Johanna and Scott’s grandmother, Shirley and Nathan, Dina, and Ivie Drogin’s great- • Kay and Jeffrey Rosenberg Koenig grandmother, Molly Roth • Irma and Peter Berman • Jeanne and Joseph Samet • Linda and Jeffrey Drogin • Marlene Sheldon • Michelle Schaerf The Jeremy Savitz Music Education Fund The Gerald Edelman Memorial Education Fund • Susan Stockman • The Kestenbaum Family In honor of Ben Alter’s 60th birthday In memory of Martha • Charlotte and David Spector • Ellen Goldstein • Esta Edelman In memory of Debby Schenkel’s brother in law In honor of Karen and Ted Eisenberg’s daughter In memory of Ellie James Karvelas Jennifer’s marriage • Esta Edelman • Michelle and Carl Schaerf • Felice and Arthur Nichols • Marcy and Marshall Pollack The David Taubenfeld Ramah Scholarship Fund • Lois and Norman Gebeloff In memory of David Koenig’s mother and • Julie, Jason, Chase and Skylar Baruch Johanna and Scott’s grandmother, Shirley In memory of Seth Weisleder’s father and • Susan Stockman Koenig Jordyn and Danielle’s grandfather, Dr. Harry • Felice and Arthur Nichols Weisleder In memory of Alison Popky’s father, Richard Levy • Hope and Paul Aronoff • Lauren and Seth Pasternack • Lori and Richard Nelson The Jerry Sepinwall Jewish Environmental Fund • Irma and Peter Berman • Harriet Sepinwall and Jeffrey Rosenberg The ECC Educational Enhancement Fund • Marlene Sheldon In honor of Holden Ornstein’s 4th birthday • Susan Stockman The Kiddush Sponsors • Noa Eisenstein and Adam Fishman • The 4s Children and Parents • Stacey and Michael Gold In honor of the Aufruf of Uri Mahler and Mollie In honor of Geula Zamist’s granddaughter, Mimi In memory of Marshall Pollack’s mother, and Adatto Yamnik’s Bat Mitzvah Jared, Dana, and Adam’s grandmother, Evelyn • Jeanette Paktor and Alfred Mahler • Lori and Marlon Weinberg Pollack • Marlene Sheldon In honor of Joshua’s Bar Mitzvah In honor of the wedding of Beth and Stuart • Susan Stockman • Stacey and David Kaufman Sackman’s son, Michael Sackman, to Rachel • Stacey and Michael Gold Rothman In honor of Eli Boshak’s Bar Mitzvah • Michelle and Carl Sackman In memory of Debby Schenkel’s mother, and • Heather Boshak and Paul Kotlewski • Debby and Jim Schenkel Andrew and Will Schenkel’s grandmother, • Lois and Norman Gebeloff Bess Meyer In honor of Maya Schulman’s Bat Mitzvah • Arlene and Mel Berkowitz • Susan Stockman • Dara Horn and Brendan Schulman • Marlene Sheldon The Generation to Generation Fund In honor of Peri’s Bat Mitzvah In memory of Marcy and Marshall Pollack’s son, In honor of Josh Henry’s Men’s Club Man of the • Michelle and Adam Shandler and Family Adam Pollack Year award • Nancy Bilow and Family • Lynda and Craig Brown The Kiddush Supporters • Susan Gaidella and Family • Rhonda S. Levine In honor of the marriage of Etta and Froman In honor of his wife, Margaret Karcnik’s birthday • Susan Stockman Mehl’s daughter, Barbara, to David Matalon • Dr. Richard Tancer • Irene Blumberg In memory of Seth Weisleder’s father and In honor of the Aufruf of Marissa Feiwus and Jordyn and Danielle’s grandfather, Dr. Harry In memory of David Koenig’s mother and Ross Pollack Weisleder Johanna and Scott’s grandmother, Shirley • Michelle Zeman and Howard Feiwus • The ECC Board Koenig • Stacey and Michael Gold • Gwen and Richard Chattman In memory of his mother, Ruth Tancer, his uncle, • Dorie and Seth Eisenstein • Lori and Mickey Etkin Arnold Greenblatt and his father, Morris • Judy and Harvey Zeller Greenblatt’s 50th yahrzeit In memory of Toby Knopf, mother • Mady and David Koenig • Dr. Richard Tancer of Debbie Weisleder and • Selina and Alan Davidson g r a n d m o t h e r o f J o r d y n a n d D a n i e l l e The Kiddush Contributors • The ECC Board In memory of Molly Roth • Linda and Jeffrey Drogin In honor of Ben’s birthday In memory of Beth Sackman and Edie Davidson’s The George and Molly Kaplan Caring Fund • Jean and the Alter Family mother, and Michael and Jenna Sackman and In honor of Naomi and Gerry Eisenberg’s In honor of Joseph Werk’s move to the CAI Mitchell and Jason Epstein’s grandmother, grandson, Ilan Eisenberg’s Bar Mitzvah neighborhood Carol Davidson • Barbara Sebiri • Susan Werk

PAGE 35 CONGREGATION AGUDATH ISRAEL OF WEST ESSEX

In honor of the birth of their grandson, The Martha & Sol Rogoff Children’s The Roslyn Hoffer Education Fund Solomon Parks Franklin Activity Fund • Arthur and Donna Franklin In honor of the birth of Judy and John Craig’s In honor of Peri Shandler’s Bat Mitzvah grandson, Daniel Cruise In honor of the birth of their grandson, • Karen and Ted Eisenberg • Karen and Jerry Glaser Daniel Cruise • Judy and John Craig In memory of Adam Meyers’ mother and Lee The Norman and Julie Ripps Scholarship for Meyers’ grandmother, Rina Meyers In honor of the birth of their great- Summer Youth Programs • Karen Glaser granddaughter, Mabel August • Bea and Nat Taubenfeld In memory of Leonard Fuchs • Lori Fuchs-Meyers and Adam Meyers In memory of David Koenig’s mother and In honor of Paula Spack for winning the Jerry Johanna and Scott’s grandmother, Shirley Gottesman Quest Award for the Pursuit of The Prayer Book Fund Koenig • Karen and Jerry Glaser Teaching Excellence In memory of Lee Frost’s father, Dr. William • The CAI Education Department Frost The Senior Lounge Fund • Debbie and Richie Yuran In honor of Evan and Matthew’s Bar Mitzvah In memory of Abby Vine’s father and anniversaries The Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund Benjamin and Jeremy’s grandfather, Meyer • Mindy and Evan Blum In appreciation of Rabbi Silverstein Friedman • Linda and Israel Majzner In honor of her 87th birthday • Bea Freiheiter • Terry Izraeli In honor of Daniel Gold’s Bar Mitzvah The Stephen LaPoff Sports Fund • Stacey and Michael Gold In honor of Ava’s Bat Mitzvah In memory of Lee Frost’s father, Dr. William • Erin and Jonathan Rapkin In honor of Eli Boshak’s Bar Mitzvah Frost • Heather Boshak and Paul Kotlewski • Susan LaPoff In memory of Arthur’s grandfather, Abraham Kaufer and father, Edward Franklin In honor of Peri Shandler’s Bat Mitzvah The Sydney Gross Teen Mitzvah Fund • Arthur and Donna Franklin • Michelle and Adam Shandler In memory of Lee Frost’s father, Dr. William In memory of her father, Edward Franklin Frost In memory of Lee Frost’s father, Dr. William • Ellen, Barry, Mitchell and Eddye Golden • Carol Morman Frost • Alison and Lee Frost In memory of Eleanor Gorodetzer In memory of Seth Weisleder’s father and • Nancy and Cantor Joel Caplan In memory of David Koenig’s mother and Jordyn and Danielle’s grandfather, Dr. Johanna and Scott’s grandmother, Shirley Harry Weisleder In memory of Rabbi Herman Savitz Koenig • Esther Kartus • Renee Savitz • Molly and David Clements The Sylvia and Irving Gladstein In memory of Karen’s beloved father, In memory of her husband, Manuel Morman Education Fund TRIBUTES AND DONATIONS CONTINUED AND DONATIONS TRIBUTES Solomon Rogoff • Carol Morman In honor of the birth of Donna and Arthur • Karen and Ted Eisenberg Franklin’s grandson, Solomon Parks In memory of Stewart’s uncle, Samuel Brand Franklin In memory of Sheldon’s sisters, Helen • Jill and Stewart Schneck • Jane and Ned Gladstein Tiersten and Evelyn Schreck • Bonnie and Sheldon Cytron In memory of Beth Sackman and Edie In honor of the wedding of Beth and Stuart Davidson’s mother, and Michael and Jenna Sackman’s son, Michael Sackman, to In memory of Edith Cohen Sackman and Mitchell and Jason Epstein’s Rachel Rothman • Edward, Joseph and Sanford Cohen grandmother, Carol Davidson • Jane and Ned Gladstein • Beth and Stuart Sackman In memory of Judy’s brother, Robert Lapkin • Gail and Bruce Shapiro • John and Judy Craig In memory of Seth Weisleder’s father and Jordyn and Danielle’s grandfather, Dr. The Kiddush Fund In memory of Bracha Rosenberg’s son, Dan Harry Weisleder Rosenberg • Jane and Ned Gladstein In honor of the marriage of Howard Feiwus • Miriam Barall and Michelle Zeman’s daughter, Marissa In memory of Abi Spierer’s father, and Jessica In memory of Terry Sherman’s parents, Ruth Feiwus, to Ross Pollack and Arthur Josephson • Beth and Robert Daniel and Mikayla Spierer’s grandfather, Harold Littman • Jane and Ned Gladstein In honor of the birth of Judy’s grandson • Abi and Alan Spierer The Toby Shapiro Fund and Joe Gould and Rebecca Gould’s son, Robert Benjamin In memory of Marshall Pollack’s mother, and In memory of Neil Freeman’s mother and • Judy Gould and Michael Cavalier Jared, Dana, and Adam’s grandmother, Jason, Natasha and Jeremy’s grandmother, Evelyn Pollack Violet Freeman In honor of the marriage of their daughter, • Marshall and Marcy Pollack • Roy Shapiro and Gail Grollman Brooke Sunshine, to Joshua Levine • Gayle and Larry Wieseneck • Susan and Stephen Sunshine The Reiser Children’s Choir Fund • Lisa Hochman and Marc Rudoltz In memory of Jeffrey Goldberg In memory of Seth Weisleder’s father and • Martin Goldberg Jordyn and Danielle’s grandfather, Dr. Harry Weisleder The Mara Godfrey Family Engagement Fund • Beth and Scott Reiser In memory of Mara Godfrey In memory of her beloved mother, Herta • Roberta and Norman Mulkowsky Goldsmith • Jessica and Charles Horowitz • Diana Merryman

PAGE 36 WWW.AGUDATH.ORG JANUARY 2018

As of December 4, 2017 • Meir-Sebi Alelov from Patricia and Noel Alelov • Louis S. Milefsky from Ruth Percely • Cecelia Bandler from Phyllis Friedman • Marilyn Natalie Volin Miller from Deborah and Rabbi • Gloria Bauer from Harvey Hershkowitz Clifford Miller • Norma Bernstein from Ruth Percely • Sheldon Morley Miller from Deborah and Rabbi Clifford • Morey Bobrow from Amy Steinberg Miller • Tillie Brell from Karen Eisenberg • Leonard Miller from Deborah and Rabbi Clifford Miller • Ruth Brody from Susan Schwartz • Dora Sturman Miller from Deborah and Rabbi Clifford • Irving Brookman from Selma Brookman Miller • MaryAnn Budd from Eileen Fishman • Samuel Miller from Deborah and Rabbi Clifford Miller • Morris Chiaet from Steven Chiaet • Samuel Moskowitz from Harvey Moskowitz • Harry Cohen from Leonard Cohen • Joan Nitzberg from Joel Nitzberg • Sol Danoff from David Danoff • Arthur M. Percely from Ruth Percely • Harold Darwin from Felice Nichols • Martin I. Prince from Mitch Prince • Renee Darwin from Felice Nichols • Martha Rogoff from Karen Eisenberg • Esther Dicker from Harriet Seidner • Max Rosenberg from Annette Fine • Max Dicker from Harriet Seidner • Emanuel M. Rosenbluth from Hillary and Robert Prince • Bernard Elfenbein from Anita Elfenbein • Saul Rosenkranz from Jack Rosenkranz • Maurice Feinberg from Arnold Feinberg • Nathan Roth from Shani and Louis Drogin YAHRZEIT DONATIONS YAHRZEIT • Herman Feinblum from Hillary Prince • Annette Roth from Judy Zeller • Shirley Feinblum from Hillary Prince • Harold Rothman from Stuart Rothman • Julius Finkelstein from Miriam Block • Barry Rozman from Marjorie Rozman • Max Freiheiter from Beatrice Freiheiter • Doris Schonhaut from Barbara and Jerry Gessner • Mickey Fried from Paula Saginaw • George Schwenk from Deborah Schwenk • Mara Godfrey from Glenn Godfrey • Sidney Seidner from Harriet Seidner • Jack Goldberg from Elaine Blank • Eugene Seidner from Harriet Seidner • Martin Goldberg from Jeffrey Goldberg • Sidney Shapiro from Roy Shapiro • Louis Golden from Bert Golden • Avram Shlizerman from Jane and Jeff Velsker • Gilda Gordon from Jon Gordon • Elsie Shupack from Ivy Brown • Lola M. Gottfried from Marjorie Rozman • Martin Singer from Beth Singer • Herbert Grossman from Robin Mangino • Abe Spiegel from Esta Edelman • Sol Gruber from Jack Gruber • Meyer Sturman from Deborah and Rabbi Clifford Miller • Pauline Gutterman from Margie Samuels • George Sturman from Deborah and Rabbi Clifford Miller • Robert Simeon Heller from Nancy Heller Moskowitz • Anna Sturman from Deborah and Rabbi Clifford Miller • Matilda Heller from Carole Shapiro • Harry H. Sturman from Deborah and Rabbi Clifford Miller • Ruth Hendel from Helene Arzt • Tillie Kazdan Sturman from Deborah and Rabbi Clifford • David Hershkowitz from Harvey Hershkowitz Miller • Sarah Ijadi from Manuchehr Eijadi • Louis Sturman from Deborah and Rabbi Clifford Miller • Irving Kanoff from Marcia Gurian • Yetta Tarnofsky from Lori Bernheim • Scott Harris Kaplan from Marc, Ellen and Wendi Kaplan • Sam Uchill from Deborah and Rabbi Clifford Miller • Joan Kass from Elizabeth Kass and Mayer Kass • Ida Thelma Libert Uchill from Deborah and Rabbi Clifford • Morris Kaufman from Louis Kaufman Miller • Morris H. Kruger from Ann Kruger Leeb • Joseph Veksler from Jane and Jeff Velsker • Frederick Levine from Barrie Werfel • Bernard Weinberger from Donald Weinberger • Burton Lewis from The Lewis Family • David Weissman from Sharon Glauberg • Roslyn Hoffer Lieberman from Karen Glaser • Jeannette Werfel from Barrie Werfel • Leon Majzner from Linda and Israel Majzner • Jankel Szyja Werk from Joseph Werk • Wolf Mattler from Deborah and Rabbi Clifford Miller • Max Zimmerman from Theodore Zimmerman • Sol Messer from Michael Messer • Rose Zyontz from Norma Zyontz

Is Your Contribution Missing?

Sometimes tributes come in after dead- Have good news to share? line. Sometimes there is a clerical error. Please let us know! Contact [email protected] Please let us know if you are looking for a listing, which is absent. We will make sure it appears the following month. And we apologize for any oversights.

PAGE 37 CONGREGATION AGUDATH ISRAEL OF WEST ESSEX

Through November 30, 2017

MAZEL TOV TO: • Rabbi Silverstein on his appoinment to the New Jersey Israel Committee by Governor Christie • Joyce and Ellis Hoch on the birth of their great granddaughter • Paula Spack for winning the Jerry Gottesman Quest Award for the Pursuit of Teaching Excellence • Judy and John Craig on the birth of their grandson, Daniel Cruise • Bea and Nat Taubenfeld on the birth of their great-granddaughter, Mabel August • Josh Henry, Men’s Club Man of the Year award winner • Beth and Stuart Sackman on the marriage of their son, Michael, to Rachel Rothman

PERSONALS • Rebecca Kinburn on the birth of her daughter, Miriam Hannah Kinburn • Deborah and Jeffrey Orens on the birth of their granddaughter, Miriam Hannah Kinburn • Pam and Rich Chassen on the engagement of their son, Daniel, to Emily Harris • Susan and Stephen Sunshine on the marriage of their daughter, Brooke, to Joshua Levine

SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILIES OF: • Irv Benedon, CAI Past-President, husband of Rosalind Benedon • Toby Knopf, mother of Debbie Weisleder and grandmother of Jordyn and Danielle • Dr. Harry Weisleder, father of Seth Weisleder and grandfather of Jordyn and Danielle • Shirley Koenig, mother of David Koenig and grandmother of Johanna and Scott • Violet Freeman, mother of Neil Freeman and grandmother of Jason, Natasha and Jeremy • Helen Goldsmith Mandell, grandmother of David Kaufman, great-grandmother of Joshua, Sammy and Zachary Kaufman • Carol Davidson, mother of Beth Sackman and Edie Davidson and grandmother of Michael and Jenna Sackman and Mitchell and Jason Epstein • Harold Littman, father of Abi Spierer, grandfather of Jessica and Mikayla Spierer • Molly Roth, grandmother of Shani Drogin, and great-grandmother of Nathan, Dina, and Ivie Drogin • Evelyn Pollack, mother of Marshall Pollack, grandmother of Adam Pollack z’l

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PAGE 38 WWW.AGUDATH.ORG JANUARY 2018

CALDWELL HADASSAH presents THE LOOSE CANONS Saturday, January 13, 2018 at 7:00 pm

Congregation Agudath Israel 20 Academy Road Caldwell, NJ 07006

How do you describe the indescribable? Zany, humorous, eclectic and always entertaining. Our name, The Loose Canons, says it all! Our repertoire includes funny, satirical, semi-political, do-wop, original parodies and socially (ir)responsible songs. An evening of pure musical fun!!

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PAGE 39 CONGREGATION AGUDATH ISRAEL OF WEST ESSEX

B’NAI MITZVAH

KYLE FINK TOBEY GIAT RACHEL LEVINE Son of Robert and Rachel Fink Son of David and Jessica Giat Daughter of David and Allison Levine January 6 - PM January 12 - AM January 27 - PM

Kyle is a 7th grader at Newark Academy, Tobey Giat is a 7th grader at Heritage Rachel is a 7th grade honor student where he enjoys playing football, Middle School in Livingston. He is a high at West Essex Middle School. She wrestling, and playing baseball. He honor role student and an avid runner. is dedicated to her schoolwork and is a great big brother to Maddie and Tobey runs both cross country and track. enjoys playing field hockey and lacrosse. Chase. Kyle has a friendly and outgoing Recently Tobey represented Livingston Rachel brightens the room with her personality and truly enjoys helping Township at the Essex County Track warmth and smile. She is a loving others. For his mitzvah project, he Championships. He enjoys listening to daughter, an amazing big sister to Sasha participates in Friendship Circle’s friends music, playing basketball and hanging and a loyal friend. at home program. Last December, out with friends. Tobey is a volunteer at Kyle traveled to Israel with his the Mount Pleasant Animal Shelter. He Rachel is an avid reader and writer. family and grandparents and had an can be seen there in his scrubs, caring She loves to listen to music and spend amazing experience. Together with his for the puppies and kittens. Tobey time with her friends. She lives for her grandparents, Kyle picked out the tallis also fosters dogs that are in need of amazing summers at Camp Echo Lake. he will wear for the first time at his a temporary home. Realizing that the For Rachel’s mitzvah project, she is Bar Mitzvah. We are so proud of Kyle’s shelter had limited resources to care volunteering at the Fairfield Public hard work and accomplishments and for critically ill animals, Tobey started Library. She is working with children are excited to celebrate this milestone an emergency fund for the shelter. The to help with their reading and their together with family and friends. MPAS Emergency Fund raises money for homework. Rachel is also participating the expensive surgeries, therapies and in the Better Together program with medicine sometimes needed by shelter senior citizens. animals. Thus far, Tobey has raised close to $2,500 for the MPAS Fund. His We are so proud of Rachel and are parents and brother are very proud of thrilled to celebrate this important all Tobey has accomplished thus far, and milestone with family and friends! of the young man he has become. Mazal Tov Tobey on becoming a Bar Mitzvah!

CHECK IN AND CHECK DO YOU NEED HELP WITH US OUT ON FACEBOOK! YOUR MITZVAH PROJECT? WERB TORAH CLUB If you are working on a project and NOTICE TO PARENTS OF would like to publicize it to gain support HONOR SOCIETY UPCOMING B’NAI MITZVAH from the congregation, send a 50-75 news, updates and Please submit writeups (no more word description of your project and events....LIVE! than 150 words) and photos what sort of support you would like to electronically to [email protected]. [email protected].

PAGE 40 WWW.AGUDATH.ORG JANUARY 2018

PAGE 41 CONGREGATION AGUDATH ISRAEL OF WEST ESSEX

PAGE 42 WWW.AGUDATH.ORG JANUARY 2018

PAGE 43 NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID CALDWELL, NJ PERMIT NO. 9 20 Academy Road Caldwell, New Jersey 07006-5426

Address Service Requested

TIME SENSITIVE MATERIAL If your address is incorrect, PLEASE DELIVER ASAP please notify the office Counselor...... Adam Shandler Secretary...... Helene Wingens Financial Exec ...... Jordan Shumofsky Treasurer...... David Moses Vice President ...... Alison Rosenthal Vice President ...... Anita Finkel Vice President ...... Shani Drogin Sr. Vice President...... Gayle Wieseneck President ...... Victor Nhaisi JFS Zeller Family Social Worker, Andrea Malmud Congregation Nurse, Karen Frank USY Advisor, Shai LeWitter Administrative Asst. for Religious School, Scott Bergenfeld Administrative Asst. for ECC, Jessica Pablo Administrative Coordinator of Education, Lori Weinberg Development and Admin. Asst, Tracy De Frias Assistant to the Cantor, Dorit Eli Bookkeeper, Rosalie Felberbaum Assistant,Member Services Allison Robinson Development Director, Michael E. Bressman Communications Manager, Julie Colella Operations Manager, Dana Ben-Avi Membership Coordinator, Debbie Lurie Early Childhood Center Director, Geula Zamist Director, Synagogue Administration, Natter Meryl Education Director, Susan Werk Cantor Joel Caplan Rabbi Alan Silverstein, Ph.D. Congregation Agudath Israelwww.agudath.org 973-226-3600 • Published monthly from September through June by ...... Ext. 143 Ext. 141 Ext. 127 Ext. 123 Ext. 120 Ext. 124 Ext. 126 Ext. 114 Ext. 110 Ext. 113 Ext. 112 Ext. 117 Ext. 118 Ext. 121 Ext. 115 Ext. 122 Ext. 116 Ext. 111 Ext.134