Neve Shalom Bulletin Vol. XL - No. 10 June 2013
Serving the Northern Middlesex County Jewish Community NEVE SHALOM
FROM THE RABBI By Gerald Zelizer
The Quest for Pluralism in Israel
e all know that Israel is the only ing the participation of women, should be W democratic state in the Mid- allowed equal access at the Kotel. For east. Most are also aware that there is decades that was impossible. The Ortho- a serious flaw in Israel’s democracy – dox establishment designated a prayer namely in the religious sphere. Public area with a thick mehitzah down the mid- expressions of religion are under the dle. Women were separated on the other authority of what we would call Ortho- side. As the years progressed, the men’s dox (a “catch all” – there are many section expanded, and space allocated to forms of ‘Orthodoxy’ – ranging from the women’s section diminished. Fundamentalists to Modern). How did Recently there has been a dramatic that all start? At the establishment of change for the better. More and more, Israel in 1948, the first Prime Minister the government of Israel acknowledges Romans in 70 C.E. David Ben Gurion made a deal. Al- the point of view that the Kotel is a sa- The Sharansky compromise calls though not Orthodox himself, he cred spot for all of world Jewry, agreeing for that whole area to be expanded and agreed with the Orthodox that, in re- to accommodate our “flavor” of Jewish formalized to facilitate non-Orthodox turn for, for example, buses running on services, – as well as Reform – and Recon- religious services. This accommodation Shabbat in some cities like Tel Aviv and structionist – without negating the Ortho- is recommended after the protests over Haifa, the Orthodox would be granted dox. Jewish Agency Chairman Natan Sha- the years, harassment, even arrests of hegemony over all official state relig- ransky was appointed to come up with a many Jewish women who prayed at the ion. Items like marriages, gittins (Jewish compromise after interviewing all Kotel and chanted the service as divorces), funerals, appointment of streams of Jews, plus Arabs, Christians, “Baalei Tefillah" wearing tallit and te- chief rabbis, neighborhood rabbinic etc. fillin, as they would pray in our syna- functionaries working for the govern- The basic outline of the compromise gogue. Significantly, the Orthodox ment, supervision of the IDF, would all is as follows. Spatially, the Kotel actually Rabbi Rabinowitz who has authority be under the authority of the Ortho- extends well beyond the particular area dox. Their hegemony also included the with the plaza that many of us know as (Continued on page 13.) authority over the Kotel – the “Wall” in the Orthodox synagogue. It reaches hun- Jerusalem. Of course, that agreement dreds of meters down to the “right side” - in 1948 evolved and was massaged as you look face on at the Kotel - all the through the years. But the basic princi- way to what is called “Robinson’s Arch.” pal of Orthodox public religion re- That is an arch of the Ancient Temple June mained. named after the archeologist who uncov- Much of Diaspora Jewry, including ered it in modern times. Even before this our Conservative Movement, contend compromise, Conservative and Reform Highlights that the Kotel belongs to world Jewry services, egalitarian services, were held as a critical religious symbol, even informally at that place. I have prayed at though it stands within the State of Robinson’s Arch with Conservative Jews Member Q&A ...... 3 Israel (of course, for many years that many times. It is a very inspirational envi- was not the case because it was in the ronment – one literally stands next to Called to the Torah...... 6 hands of Jordan). We argued that lib- boulders which were part of the second eral kinds of religious services – includ- Temple, before it was destroyed by the Summer Calendars ...... 11
Neve Shalom Bulletin June 2013
Congregation Neve Shalom 250 Grove Avenue, Metuchen, NJ 08840 www.neveshalom.net Phone: 732-548-2238 NOTES FROM THE HAZZAN Fax: 732-548-2335 E-mail: [email protected] By Hazzan Sheldon Levin
Affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism
Springing Ahead
his spring has been an amazing OFFICERS President ...... Audrey Napchen chance to celebrate Israel’s birthday. Vice President ...... Larry Goldberg At Neve Shalom we had the Israel Segal Vice President ...... Christina Daniels Lecture with Moshe Halbertal challenging Vice President ...... Hope Serratelli Vice President ...... Debbie Schildkraut us to think about the morality of war. The Vice President ...... Shelley Telson Hebrew School children built a model of Treasurer ...... Mark Lampf Financial Secretary ...... Linda Gotlib the Old City of Jerusalem with thousands Recording Secretary ...... Dan Hirsch of Legos. The ISRAEL 65 day-long celebra- Sisterhood Co-Presidents ...... Jennifer Bullock ...... Nancy Shlossman tion included three concerts, six speakers, Men’s Club President ...... Matt Bonus four films, demonstrations and participa- USY President ...... Elliot Bonus ...... Jennifer Greenberg tion of Israeli cooking, dancing and Krav Maga, many arts and crafts tables, a huge SYNAGOGUE STAFF Rabbi...... Gerald L. Zelizer model of the Kotel made by the kids, Hazzan, wonderful vendors, eight exhibitors of Director of Education ...... Sheldon Levin Nursery School Director ...... Martha Mack Israel organizations and food from the Bookkeeper ...... Kathy Girardin Sisterhood. I want to thank Jennine Cooking demonstrations at ISRAEL 65 Secretary for Rabbi and Hazzan ...... Rita Devlin Shpigel of the JCC, Linda Gotlib of Neve Secretary for Nursery School Shalom’s Israel Affairs Committee, Rabbi and Youth Groups ...... Debbie Jones Secretary for Hebrew School ....Jeanne Cowhey David Vaisberg of Temple Emanu-el and Rabbi Ari Saks of Beth Mordecai who co-
BULLETIN STAFF chaired this event with me. Thanks also Editor/Designer ...... Mindy Paris-Thurer to every volunteer who staffed tables, Calendar Editor...... Ron Becker ushered, led sessions, organized things, Advertising in this Bulletin does NOT constitute performed, sold food or helped in any certification of kashrut. way.
The Susy Schwartz Concert brought BULLETIN DEADLINES September Issue: July 15 Cantor David Amar leading famous Israeli songs and comedian, Benji Lovitt, sharing Submit your articles and graphics for publication to Rita Devlin via e-mail at barbs about Israeli travel and life. A fun [email protected]. time was had by all. In May I chaired the Cantors’ Convention including a wonder- ful concert of world Jewish music cele- brating Israel’s birthday. Margot Leveret and the Klezmer Mountain Boys In June we look forward to two con- certs in Monroe Township at the Marasco Theater. Federation is hosting Margot Leveret and the Klezmer Mountain Boys with guest singer Naomi Miller on Wednesday, June 19 at 7:30 pm.
On Sunday, June 23 at 3:00 pm, Mak- Walter Steigerwald helat Hamercaz, the Jewish Choir of Cen- father of Stuart Steigerwald tral NJ is singing a program of mostly Is- raeli selections with some Broadway, Betty Simon opera and Yiddish added. Our guest solo- our member and wife of ists are Cantors David Perper and Faith Murray Simon Steinsnyder, two of the finest cantors today. This is not a cantorial concert but a Dorothy Baum celebration of Israel with lots of fun and participation. Tickets can be ordered by mother of Michael Baum phone 732-322-1252 or 732-688-4146 or Cantors David Perper and Faith Steinsnyder online at www.MercazChoir.org
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What are your hobbies and interests? Congregant Joel knows every trivial statistical fact about baseball and sports history. He is an avid and lifelong Yankees fan. Audrey’s interests are music, reading and synagogue life.
The Napchen Family Anything you want to share about your kids and their inter- ests and/or professions? By Debbie Kestin-Schildkraut, Our son Mat is getting married to Morgan this June. We are very Vice President, Membership Committee excited. They are a USY couple and met while on USY on Wheels. Our daughter Lindsay is the Director of Teen and Youth Services for the JCC in Scotch Plains. She has a Masters in Jewish education This month...get to know more from the Jewish Theological Seminary. Both kids worked as paras in about our members, the Napchen our Hebrew school and were officers in our USY chapter. This family: Audrey, Joel, Lindsay and strong foundation at Neve Shalom is what led Lindsay to her avoca- Mathew. tion as a Jewish communal professional.
You’ve heard her cheerful voice on What is something that people may not know about you? your phone on Thursday nights, Joel and I met while playing volleyball at the old YM/YWHA in High- and seen her on the bimah most land Park. Originally, I was planning to fix him up with my cousin weekends. While we’ve all had the benefit of experiencing her en- but she never showed and I got to know him. We really liked each ergy and enthusiasm in one way or another, I thought it would be other! Here I was, interviewing him for my cousin and we fell in fitting to feature Audrey and her family in this issue. As she wraps up love. I'm really glad I didn't introduce him to my cousin. her Presidency, I would like to personally thank Audrey for the count- Audrey has successfully fixed up four other couples who have less hours of dedication, caring and diligence that she has put into gotten married, including her own brother. We have a “yenta” in this role over the last two years. Her leadership style has been our midst? Who knew? (Maybe Audrey’s next gig should be run- warm, welcoming and always professional, and I am proud to have ning J-Date?!?) had the opportunity to get to know her more and work with her, as Any highlights or favorite moments or aspects from your she embraced this role in a positive and passionate fashion. Yasher Neve Shalom presidency? Koach Audrey! Now let’s all find out a little bit more about Audrey The work of the long range planning committee has been out- and her family. standing. I have never seen a more dedicated group of people re- How long have you been members of Neve Shalom? searching, making calls, coming up with proposals, etc., all to make Nineteen years. our congregation stronger for the future. I am so happy to be a part of this team. While it can be tough work, it has been a great experi- What made you join Neve Shalom? ence. Our son Mathew attended Nursery School at Neve Shalom, and It has been a privilege to be President of Neve Shalom. Congre- when he went on to Kindergarten, I (Audrey) started working as a gants have been nothing but wonderful and supportive. teacher in the Nursery School. I became friends with the teachers We have a wonderful congregation staff and clergy. Rabbi and moms who were Neve members. We learned that Neve had a Zelizer has been a great partner. We had many opportunities to first rate Hebrew School and that was very important to us. We talk and think things through - things that greatly affected and became members when Lindsay entered Kita K'tana. We were benefitted the congregation. Hazzan Levin - there is no end to his warmly welcomed by then Membership Vice President Sandy Fields, energy and creativity. We are lucky to have him. He is a treasure. and the rest is history.
What do you like best about Neve Shalom? Neve Shalom has first rate educational opportunities for children as well as adults. There is a warm wonderful, participatory service on Shabbat and there is a genuine feeling of care for fellow congre- gants.
Where are you each from originally? Audrey grew up in Edison and is a graduate of Edison High School. Her family belonged to Congregation Beth El in Edison. Her father was the President of the synagogue. Originally from the Bronx, Joel grew up in central New Jersey and graduated from New Brunswick High School.
Tell us about your professions? Joel is a manager for Home Depot in Milltown, NJ. He has been with Home Depot for 13 years, and has been in managerial retailing for most of his career. Audrey has been a Jewish communal profes- sional for the last 15 years. She is currently Director of Women’s Philanthropy for Jewish Federation of Greater Middlesex County. Previously, she was Executive Director for Temple Beth Ahm in Springfield, NJ.
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Neve Community Conversations… HEBREW SCHOOL NEWS We want to hear from you! By Hazzan Sheldon Levin
Please participate! The on-going vitality of our synagogue is a top priority. As part of the Long Range Planning Committee’s efforts, we A Celebratory Spring want to reach out to as many seg- ments of our membership as possi- ble to gather people’s interests and feedback on all aspects of the syna- Our spring was very full. gogue. We felt the best way to do Maccabiyah centered this would be in small groups, where people can around Israel which was feel more comfort- fun and educational. able to speak up We remembered Yom and share their Hazikaron (Israel’s Me- views. Each ses- morial Day) and Yom sion should take HaShoa (Holocaust Re- approximately 90 membrance Day). minutes.
If you would like to host or participate in one of these sessions, please contact Rena Kallman at With the help of archi- [email protected] or tect Sid Schwartz, and a Debbie Schildkraut at grant from Federation, [email protected], or call the we built a model of the synagogue office. Old City of Jerusalem with thousands of Legos.
At the Israel 65 Celebration we sang…. for Hebrew School at http://www.neveshalom.net/ hs_registration_2013- 2014.pdf
…..and danced.
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Neve Shalom would like to thank the ...did crafts. following people for chanting Torah in the month of April: T=Teen, JR=Junior
Ron Becker...... 16 Andrea Colby ...... 3 Benjamin Daniels ...... T 1 Jessica Dobbs ...... T 1 Lawrence Dombrow ...... 1 Michael Friederwitzer ...... 12 Sam Gilbert ...... 2 Eric Goldman ...... 2 Rosalie Green ...... 2 Bruce Greenberg ...... 3 Larry Howitt ...... 1 ….placed messages in Will Howitt...... T 1 the Kotel. Rena Kallman ...... 2 Sidney Krane ...... 1 Max Lipschutz ...... T 1 Barbara Osofsky ...... 1 Daniel Rosenfield ...... T 1 Mark Rosenfield ...... 8 Michele Rosenfield ...... 2 Sophie Rubin...... T 1 Cathy Salamon ...... 1 Brett Schildkraut ...... 2 David Schildkraut ...... T 1 Debbie Schildkraut ...... 2 Sarah Schildkraut ...... JR 1 Elyse Schulman ...... 1 ….solved puzzles. Jeffrey Schulman ...... 1 Stacey Sern ...... 1 Martin Slutzky...... 1 Arlene Smith ...... 1 Barbara Spack ...... 3 Lisa Spiegel ...... 2 Alan Stern ...... 1 Stephen Traum ...... 5 David Yellin ...... 1
HAFTARAH Ron Becker Aimee Braverman ….and much, more!! Jessica Dobbs ...... T Bruce Greenberg On Lag B’Omer we did Will Howitt...... T fun sport activities. The Max Lipschutz ...... T cooking chug made Is- Barbara Spack raeli cakes and Shavuot desserts. On the last ASHREI day of school the award Jacob Anes ...... JR Assembly shared many Sarah Schildkraut ...... JR of the highlights of the past year and plans for the future.
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lana Rosen, the daughter of Melanie I and Eric Rosen, will become a bat mitzvah on Saturday, June 15. Ilana is looking forward to this special day and By Flora Cowen being able to share it with family and friends, both near and far, including her n Saturday, June 8, Evan Derector, sister Rachel; Grandma Marilyn and Pop the son of Stacey and Scott Derec- Pop Steven Rosen from Edison; Aunt Gail tor, will become a bar mitzvah. Evan’s and Uncle Marty Komisar, and cousins brother Justin will be celebrating with Randi Schachter, Eric Schachter, and him on that day, along with Grandma Bradley Komisar from Milwaukee; Sarah Minkin (Bradley's Brenda and Grandpa Howie Derector fiancée); Aunt Donna and Uncle Evan Adelglass, and cousins from Port St. Lucie, FL; Grandma Ellen Rebecca, Brett and Jeffrey from Westport, CT; and Aunt Carrie, and Grandpa Perry Saines from Marl- Uncle Dan Lipton, and cousins Josh and Chloe from New York boro; and aunts, uncles and cousins from City. She is also excited to be reunited with her friends and Florida and Colorado. counselors from Camp Nejeda, her home away from home. Evan is in grade 7 at Edgar Middle School in Metuchen, where Ilana will be the fifth member of her family to celebrate his favorite subjects are Gym and Social Studies. He participates in the rite of bat mitzvah at Neve Shalom. Her Grandma Marilyn, several sports, including baseball, soccer, flag football, and floor father Eric, sister Rachel, and Aunt Carrie also became b’nai hockey. His hobbies and interests include “playing sports and um- mitzvah at Neve Shalom! And, as an infant, Ilana was named in piring,” and in his spare time, he likes “hanging out with friends Neve Shalom. She will carry on a great family tradition at her and listening to music.” bat mitzvah. With his family, he has traveled in the United States to Califor- Ilana is a seventh grade student at Edgar Middle School, nia, Nevada, Colorado, Florida, North Carolina, Virginia, Massachu- where her favorite subjects are Science and Art. Ilana tells us setts, Vermont, and Washington, DC. He has also traveled outside that she “...enjoys sewing, reading, playing Foosball and Nok of the United States to the Bahamas, Italy, and Canada. Hockey, collecting make-up and watching TV. Some of my fa- For his mitzvah project, Evan will “volunteer for the Fuce 5K vorite shows are ‘Jeopardy’, ‘Body of Proof’, ‘The Lying Games’, race, which helps Metuchen and Edison families in need.” and ‘Charmed’. Also, I play tennis, love to ride my bike and enjoy walking my dog, Emmy.” Family travels have taken her to South Beach Miami and acob Daniel Anes, the son of Debbie and Orlando in Florida, to Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, Milwau- J Ron Anes, will become a bar mitzvah on kee, Washington, D.C., the Jersey Shore and the Bahamas. Saturday, June 1. For her mitzvah project, Ilana reports, “I have been volun- Many family members will join in the teering for Buddy Ball, which is a program where special needs celebration of Jacob’s bar mitzvah, including children are teamed up with peer buddies to play baseball.” his brother Josh, a senior at J. P. Stevens High School; his Grandparents Nancy and Alan Carlin from Palm Beach Gardens, FL; his Grandmother Minna Anes from Howard Beach, NY; Uncle Wayne, Aunt Liz and cous- ins Ben, Max, Sarah and Sam Carlin from Demarest, NJ; Aunt Bar- bara, Uncle Deren and cousins Alec and Anders Getz from NYC: and June Birthday Aunt Amy Carlin from NYC. Jacob is in the seventh grade at Woodrow Wilson Middle School in Edison, where his favorite subjects are Social Studies and Science. Celebrants He plays basketball with Kadima, and he also enjoys playing baseball with travel and rec teams. When he plays baseball, he an- Pre-bat/bar mitzvah children whose birthdays fall in May will swers to the nickname “Wheels.” He tells us, “My teammates in join us on June 1 for a special blessing from the Rabbi and a baseball call me Wheels. My coach gave me that nickname at a team celebratory kiddush following services. We wish a joyful workout when he realized that I was not one of the faster runners!” mazel tov to the following children and their families: In other activities, Jacob reports, “I play the clarinet. I collect baseball cards. In my spare time, I like to be outside playing sports with my friends.” Jacob also loves the Red Sox and one of his favorite memories is watching the Red Sox play at Fenway Park. He has also Shaina Garb attended several baseball games at Shea Stadium, Citi Field and vari- ous minor league ballparks. Ronan Gray Family travels have taken Jacob to Israel, the Caribbean, Florida, Sydney Palter Boston, and “all over the East Coast, mostly visiting college cam- Elisa Pinkowitz puses!" For his mitzvah project, Jacob “counted, sorted and packed Max Rubin 25,000 brochures into packs of 25 and then in boxes by school, for Sarah Schildkraut the CARE Committee to distribute to all of the Edison Public Schools for their charity walk.”
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Legal Accommodating Jewish Employees on Shabbat
Ease: By Bruce D. Greenberg
ederal law prohibits an employer from Marmulszteyn filed an administrative religious observance. F discriminating against any person be- complaint within the agency, seeking an ex- Second, CPB had given him exactly cause of that person’s religion. When an emption from having to work on Shabbat. what he wanted: “a permanent exemption employee has a genuine religious practice CBP at first offered an accommodation under from work on the Sabbath.” Marmulszteyn that conflicts with requirements of his or which Marmulszteyn could swap shifts with complained that having to work the Satur- her employment, the employer must offer another CBPO. When he rejected that as in- day-Sunday overnight shift might leave him the employee a reasonable accommoda- sufficient, CBP offered to assign him to a Fri- too tired to volunteer for overtime during tion, unless that would cause the employer day morning shift while moving any of his the rest of the week. But the judge found undue hardship. assigned Saturday morning shifts to an over- that this was not enough to amount to a Avrohom Marmulszteyn, who worked night period that ran from Saturday at 10 P.M. wrongful reduction in his employment as a Customs and Border Protection Officer through Sunday at 6 A.M. That would have status or benefits. (“CBPO”) for the U.S. Customs and Border eliminated any need for Marmulszteyn to Finally, Marmulszteyn objected that he Protection (“CBP”), an agency of the United work on Shabbat while still following CPB’s was being treated differently than the Jew- States Department of Homeland Security, policy of providing at least eight hours off ish and Muslim CBPO’s who had sued the Secretary of the Department for between shifts. Marmulszteyn rejected that “grandfathered in” exemptions. But it was religious discrimination. Marmulszteyn’s proposed accommodation also and instead reasonable for CBP to treat all claim arose from the fact that, as an Ortho- filed suit. “grandfathered in” employees in one way dox Jew, he could not work on Shabbat. A federal judge in Brooklyn dismissed his and all new employees, like Marmulszteyn, All CBPO’s were required to work five case. She gave several reasons for reaching in a different way. There was no religious consecutive days, followed by two consecu- that conclusion. discrimination, since Orthodox Jews among tive days off. The workdays rotated accord- First, the law protects an employee only the “grandfathered in” employees were ing to a fixed schedule, however, so that from “adverse employment consequences” as treated like other such employees, and CBPO’s had to work five out of seven Satur- a result of the employee’s religious obser- Marmulszteyn was treated no differently days. A few Jewish and Muslim CBPO’s vance. Marmulszteyn was never demoted, than other, non-Orthodox Jewish, new em- were exempt from working on their Sab- disciplined, terminated or punished with any ployees. baths, but those CBPO’s got that considera- other “employment consequence.” That was tion because they had worked for other because, among other things, he never had to agencies, which had given them those ex- actually work on Shabbat due to the ability to emptions. Those agencies were later swap shifts. Moreover, Marmulszteyn himself Bruce D. Greenberg is a partner merged into CBP. As a result, those exemp- admitted that he had “progressed through the in the law firm of Lite DePalma Greenberg, tions were “grandfathered in” when the ranks” and received positive evaluations, so LLC, in Newark. merger occurred. he did not suffer in any way because of his
Edna Sherber mittees, including Adult Education, Education to accept an aliyah, due to her conservative and Ritual. views about Jewish women taking on more Selected as Edna has been volunteering in the syna- traditional male roles. gogue library since the 1960s, at Rabbi For Edna, opening the shul for morning Millie Fishbein Volunteer Herschel Matt’s request. She ended up get- minyan for 16 years has been her most out- ting her library degree at Rutgers University standing volunteer role to date. Before re- of the Year and was the Children's Librarian in the Wood- cently handing the job over to Sid Krane, Edna his year, Congregation Neve Shalom bridge School System. She is now working would come in any weather, even walking 2 ½ T chose to honor Edna Sherber as our Millie with some newer congregants who are profes- miles in snow, to open the building for Fishbein Volunteer of the Year. Edna’s service sional librarians and want to modernize the daveners. to our synagogue predates Rabbi’s Zelizer’s synagogue library. Edna also lovingly per- Outside of Neve Shalom, Edna has deliv- tenure. She served on the committee that forms the sacred task of restoring prayer ered Meals on Wheels and been involved in selected Rabbi Zelizer. She has had leader- books that have fallen into disrepair. senior programs at JFVS. She was the mem- ship roles at Neve Shalom and has volun- Many of us have to come know Edna as bership chairperson at the Retired Educators teered in these various positions: Secretary of the person most called upon to read aloud of Middlesex County and often volunteers at the Board and Executive Board, Vice President during Shabbat services. Edna is also a regular the Edison Public Library. of Sisterhood, Treasurer of Sisterhood, mem- at weekday morning minyan because she Please join us in congratulating Edna for ber of the Board of Directors. Edna has thinks it's important to be counted as a her remarkable years of committed service. served on nearly all of the synagogue’s com- woman and as a Jew, in spite of her reluctance
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hat an amazing late Sun- ADULT ED NEWS W day afternoon we shared on June 2, honoring Michael and By Hazzan Sheldon Levin Andrea Colby and Joel and Sondra Caplan. Following deli- e want to start by thanking everyone who cious hors d’oeuvres, we en- helped make this past Adult Ed year such joyed a gala musical event and a success. Thanks to Rabbi Zelizer, the Adult Ed then scrumptious desserts and chairs, Sam Grafton and Bob Moss, and the en- coffee. As usual, thanks to the tire committee who come up with great ideas dedication and support of our and are so supportive. Special thanks to Gilbert and Claudie Hayat chairpersons Jennifer Bullock who support the Shabbat Speakers Series. Thanks to everyone who and Cindy Steinbach, along with donated to the Scholar Fund and Neve Shalom and Ohev Shalom Aimee Braverman and Marlene Fineman, the food and activities were Endowments who made the Scholar event possible. Todah to the stunning. The food was prepared by Lox, Stock and Deli and not only family of Don and Ruth Kahn for supporting the Book and Author was it delicious but plentiful as well. Event and Amy Artman and her committee who did a great job. I would like to thank the entire congregation of Neve Shalom. Thanks to the Israel Segal family for their annual support and an- Your support, thoughtfulness and generosity towards this event and other outstanding lecture. We are also grateful to Bob and Debbie others like it, help create a gratifying atmosphere of learning, praying Chalfin for bringing George Vescey to speak about sports. and socializing in our synagogue. Also I would like to thank Debra This past year’s array of speakers included: Professor Julian Berman, Julius Feinson, Bruce Greenberg, Miriam Kafker, Mindy Zelizer speaking about the Presidential elections, Xcholar Dr. Reuven Paris-Thurer, Lauren Rabinowitz, Madeline Tolins-Schlitt, Eliot Spack, Kimelman who taught texts of “L’cha Dodi “ and “Shema”, Rabbi and the entire office staff for their helpful guidance and dedication. Of Esther Reed who shared college campus issues, Professor David course I would be remiss if I did not mention the honorees for without Mechanic shared important information about Health Care in Amer- them this event would not have been so successful. ica, Dr. Shirley Wachtel wrote a book about her parents’ Holocaust For me, it was truly an honor to work with Joel and Sondra experiences and Professor Yael Zarubavel enlightened us on cultural Caplan and Michael and Andrea Colby. They were extremely generous and social issues in Israel. and helpful with thoughtful insights and suggestions. They worked In addition, Bob Moss shared slides and information about the very hard to raise approximately $37,000. At a time when our syna- th 70 anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto and Arie Kaplan spoke about gogue is running deficits, this influx of money means so much, ena- Jews and comic books. At the Israel 65 event Rabbis Zelizer, Saks and bling the shul to continue with its programs and projects. A yasher Vaisberg spoke of Zionism issues from different perspectives, Bar- koach to all. bara Spack and Barbara Kavadias talked about pluralism issues in Kenneth Braverman Israel and new plans for the Kotel. Stephen Makler shared his experi- Ad Journal Chairman ences serving in the Israeli Army. Films this year included “Faces of Israel”, “The Debt”, “Oh Jeru- salem” and “Live and Become”. Courses comparing religions, study- You’re Invited . . . ing Zionism and Israeli history, Talmud, and Hebrew were taught. Concerts this past year included Sam Glaser, Benji Lovitt, Cantor to be a Neve shalom David Amar, the Yale-Magevet Chorus, Makhelat Hamercaz Choir, Volunteer!! the fun Purim shpiel and other programs. Thanks to Keith and Melissa Boxer, the Tu B’Shvat Seder tradition continued and on Sha- We are a very “select” group of people who are looking to ex- vuot Steve Gross will share an evening of enchanting study. pand. There are minimal requirements: a) looking to give back, b) Plans are underway for next year’s exciting Adult Ed programs. looking to have fun and c) looking to meet new people. There is no In October, Ben Dworkin will speak about New Jersey politics just interview process, no need for a resume and no dress code. Very prior to the State elections. In November Gary Rendsberg will teach easy!! about differing views of the Torah in a lecture postponed from last There are plenty of opportunities. Looking to visit the sick? We year because of weather. December features our Scholar, Dr. Burt have that. Looking to help at one of the synagogue events? We Visotzky, who is engaging, entertaining and enlightening. He is fea- have that too. Looking to help out in the Sisterhood, Men’s Club or tured regularly on PBS and other media talking about the Bible which any of the numerous committees that keep Neve Shalom function- is what he teaches at the Jewish Theological Seminary. ing? Yes, we have that also. There’s the Library Committee, Mem- January will feature Rabbi Kerry Olitzky, a national expert on bership Committee, Fundraising Committee, Keruv Committee and Jewish Outreach. February’s speaker, Rabbi Mordecai Schwartz, will Ritual Committee….just to name a few. teach about the Babylonian Talmud the subject of his forthcoming Volunteers help to keep our dues lower than they would be book. In March, Hazzan Nancy Abramson, the director the H. L. ordinarily. Volunteers help make Neve Shalom a friendly place. Miller Cantorial School of the Seminary, will speak about zemirot Volunteers help members in need, raise funds and do things that the synagogue would have to pay someone to do. during services and after lunch we will discuss the future of the can- There are benefits to being a volunteer. Volunteering leads to torate. Pat Henry will make a return appearance to teach about the better health. A small sampling of our own volunteers confirms that Holocaust now that his extensive book on that subject is completed. they feel better when they volunteer. Volunteering is also a great Finally, in May, Ken Moss will share historic insights into the Jews of way to make new friends. In short, it is a “win-win” for you and Poland prior to the Holocaust. Many other courses, special events Neve Shalom. and other programs are being planned. We look forward to wonder- To take advantage of this great opportunity, call us anytime! ful opportunities for us all to learn and study together. Hope Serratelli at 732-452-9211 or Linda Gotlib at 732-906-0737.
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as the host for a grand day of celebratory ac- six different outstanding speakers all of tivities to mark Israel’s 65th year of independ- whom addressed topics related to Israel or ence. In concert with three institutional part- Zionism. To supplement this, a regular cycle ners---JCC of Middlesex County, Temple of films on Israeli themes was shown Emanu-El and Temple Beth Mordecai---Neve throughout the entire day. And, of course, Shalom served as the venue for a five-hour not only was there nourishment for the soul power-packed day with something for every and mind, but there was also an available By Eliot Spack age category. A full schedule of children’s supply of food for the stomach. activities took place in the Ballroom which Many hundreds of people from Mid- icture the sight of dozens of young chil- gave the youngsters a chance to play video dlesex County attended this day’s wonder- P dren, all decked out in white shirts, games, make crafts projects and an opportu- ful program of activities. It provided them beaming with smiles while standing on the nity to watch videos. Adult participants spent all with a powerful opportunity to express steps of the sanctuary bimah and heartily the time shopping for Israeli and local jewelry/ their solidarity with the State of Israel in bellowing out their favorite Hebrew songs. gifts, purchasing Israeli food products and marking her 65th year of statehood. Special Picture the same sight of dozens of adult choir meeting representatives from a number of kudos to Hazzan Levin who efficiently and singers exercising similar messages of joy and Israel-based organizations. There were live creatively orchestrated the day’s activities, celebration. Picture an assembled audience demonstrations of how to make baklavah, to Linda Gotlib who served as the Neve standing proudly to join in the singing of exercise Krav Maga (Israeli martial arts) as well Shalom liaison, and to the dozens of volun- “Hatikvah”. as Israeli dancing. A highlight of the day fea- teers who offered their time and talents. On Sunday, April 21, Neve Shalom served tured opportunities to have a live exposure to Am Yisrael chai!
By Debbie Kestin Schildkraut, Vice President, Membership
n Saturday morning, April 27, we cele- Colonia (2003), Adath Israel of Woodbridge want to reach out to as many segments of brated Chai Shabbat. This is an annual (2006), the originating Metuchen-Edison our Membership as possible to gather peo- Shabbat service where we celebrate members community members, and many others from ple’s interests and feedback on all aspects of who have achieved 18+ years of membership. surrounding towns…all culminating in to- the synagogue. We felt the best way to do We marked this occasion by honoring the day’s Congregation Neve Shalom. this would be in small groups, where people following families who joined the 18+ year This special day also marked the 68th can feel more comfortable to speak up and ranks this year: anniversary of Emil and Bernie Kalfus' libera- share their views. Each session should take Brian & Elise Abraham tion from the concentration camps, so with approximately 90 minutes. If you would like Deborah & Ronald Anes an aliyah, we also told them how much they to host or participate in one of these ses- Phyllis & Gary Frederick continue to mean to us. A Kiddush luncheon sions, please contact Debbie Kestin Lisa & Paul Kleiman followed services. We look forward to build- Schildkraut at [email protected] or Rena Jennine & Yehuda Shpigel ing many more wonderful memories to- Kallman at [email protected], or call gether with all of you! the synagogue office. Ronit & Merrill Thor Shelley Zakim New Membership Directory Stuart Zakim The new membership directory will be Howard & Karen Zuckerman on its way to you soon! (Take a look at the Since this is a wonderful opportunity to graphic of the cover, pictured at right!) Many reflect upon memories of our synagogue com- thanks to my wonderful committee for this munity, we had three wonderful speakers: long and intensive project. Special thanks to Jack Belowich, who described moving his Lauren Rabinowitz for the cover art, Martha family from Maine to Metuchen, and how Mack for the compilation, Jamie Grubman they joined Neve Shalom through warm out- for the layout. The directory committee reach. Fran Drescher reflected upon days at includes: Debbie Schildkraut, Keith Boxer, Ohev Shalom, and the warm integration into Lena Feld, Marlene Fineman, Jamie Grub- Neve Shalom. Larry Wineberg, unfortunately, man, Daniel Hirsch, Jody Mantel, Martha returned from a trip with fever and was un- Mack, Lauren Rabinowitz and Benna able to attend at the last moment. However, Thompson. he sent his remarks, reflecting upon the earli- Community Conversations est days, when he was a child, recalling the We want to hear from you! Please coming together of multiple communities participate! The on-going vitality of our syna- over the course of time: Beth Am of Colonia, gogue is a top priority. As part of the Long B’nai Jacob of Avenel, Temple Ohev Shalom of Range Planning Committee’s efforts, we
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NURSERY SCHOOL NEWS By Martha Mack, Director t's hard to believe but specifically for young children and their the school year is draw- families. ing to a close and it's time to say goodbye We are excited to announce that we to our graduating 4 year old class of 2013. have already begun signing up new families What a wonderful year it has been and we for our new extended hours in the fall. For wish you all much joy and success in kinder- those of you who haven’t heard, as of Sep- garten next fall! A special thank you to the tember 2013 the Nursery School will have entire Nursery School teaching and admin- programming available from 7:30 am – 6:00 istrative staff for all of their hard work and pm, Monday through Friday. We look for- dedication. Thank you to Jackie Alter and ward to serving the needs of young Jewish We found a worm! Stephanie Kandel, our Nursery Committee families with two working parents who Co-chairpersons for doing a phenomenal need a full day of child care, as well as pro- job, as well as to all of the parents of Neve viding a NAEYC accredited, Jewish pre- Shalom Nursery School students for their school experience for those families who support and for playing such an active role wish their child to attend the traditional in their child's preschool education. Nursery School hours of 9:00 am – 1:00 pm. During the month of May, the entire Not only do we offer classes for 2-1/2, Nursery School participated in our Raising 3, and 4 year olds, we also have Mommy & Butterflies Project. They arrived as caterpil- Me and Just Me classes for the youngest lars and we observed them transform first ones as well as a Kindergarten Before/After into a chrysalis (cocoon) and then into School Program for those children in half beautiful Painted Lady butterflies which we day kindergarten. As always, our best released outdoors at the end of the school method of advertisement is word of mouth, year. so if you know anyone who would be inter- On Friday, May 31 we celebrated ested in sending their child to Neve Shalom Shabbat together with our very own Kabba- Nursery School please have them contact lat Tot Shabbat service. We hope that eve- me at 732-548-2238 ext 17 or Nursery schoolers give tzedakah! ryone enjoyed participating in this wonder- [email protected]. ful musical Shabbat experience designed Have a wonderful summer and see you in the fall!
Know someone who needs help? Don’t Keep It Under Your Hat!
Know someone in need of help during an illness, after surgery, after the birth of a child, please contact the Mitzvah Mission. No Mission Is Impossible! [email protected] 732-858-1764
10 Neve Shalom Bulletin June 2013 July 2013 Tammuz/Av 5773
8:00 pm
August 2013 Av/Elul 5773
11 Neve Shalom Bulletin June 2013 We Gratefully Acknowledge and thank the following generous contributors to our funds:
Rabbi's Discretionary Fund Friends of Neve Shalom Nursery Fund In Honor Of ...... From In Honor Of ...... From Marlene Fineman, Alter family, on her new grandson ...... Lena Feld on Jonah's 5th birthday...... Martha Mack In honor of Max's bar mitzvah ...... Robert and Nancy Lipschutz Gray family, In Memory Of ...... From on Ronan's 5th birthday ...... Martha Mack Irene Buchbinder ...... Shirley Segal Hanbridge family, Sanford Taffet ...... The Novello Family on Callie's 5th birthday ...... Martha Mack Lillian Epstein ...... Robin and Bob Elkinson Benjamin Arenzow ...... Kitty Haberman Don & Ruth Kahn Book & Author Fund Seymour Clare ...... Robert Clare In Honor Of ...... From Norma Miriam Grodzicki ...... Gladys and Benjamin Leibowitz Sandy Schwemer, Mordechai Shlomo Grodzicki ...... Gladys and Benjamin Leibowitz a speedy recovery ...... Paul and Iris Berman Ruth Scheirer ...... Irwin and Sheila Zigman In Memory Of ...... From Leo Slobodien...... Gail and Stan Slobodien Joyce Lichten ...... Arlene and Barry Fink Martha Goord ...... Sidney Tessler ...... Paul and Iris Berman Yahrzeit...... Gary and Marsha Kroop Fannie Shandalow ...... Lorraine Lapidus Rabbi Nathan & Florence Zelizer Fund Max Roth ...... Daniel and Esta Marx In Honor Of ...... From Rose Roth...... Daniel and Esta Marx The warm and caring Yahrzeit...... Harriet Greenspan Neve Shalom Community...... Cantor Paula Pepperstone Robert Frank ...... Renee Frank Miriam Frank...... Renee Frank Gershon Robinson Music and Art Fund Esther Kalfus ...... Emil, Bernard and Richard Kalfus In Memory Of ...... From Nathan Borowsky ...... Joseph and Arlene Borowsky Irene Buchbinder ...... Fredda Robinson Alan V. Stone...... Cantor Paula Pepperstone Ner Tamid Fund Betty Simon ...... Arlene and Leonard Smith In Honor Of ...... From Anne Linksman ...... Marlene Fineman Max Lipschutz, Aaron Braun ...... Marlene Fineman on his bar mitzvah ...... Ruth Lipschutz Esther Braun ...... Marlene Fineman Benjamin Daniels, David Robinson ...... Fredda Robinson mazel tov on his bar mitzvah ...... Lillian and Michael Radomsky Jayne Sklon, on Jessica's safety...... Shirley Segal Blood Drive in Memory of Michael Allan Thompson Fund Samuelson family, In Memory Of ...... From welcome to their Betty Simon ...... Dorothy and Eddie Thompson new granddaughter ...... Jack and Jean Belowich Joyce and Larry Goldberg, on their birthdays ...... Esther Soussa In Memory Of ...... From Individuals who have recently contributed to Irene Buchbinder ...... Susan and Mal Keller the Kiddush Kitty: ...... Edna Sherber ...... Phyllis Stacy Ken and Carol Bernstein Joyce Lichten ...... Edna Sherber Yetta and Morris Gelber Morty Fields ...... Lillian and Michael Radomsky and family Dan and Debra Hirsch Uncle Laszlo ...... Lillian and Michael Radomsky Brett and Debbie Schildkraut
Susy Schwartz Memorial Fund Mal and Susan Keller in honor of Jayne Sklon In Memory Of ...... From Irene Buchbinder ...... Shirley Segal Thank you!! ...... Ken and Martha Mack Please considering making a donation to support Kiddush luncheon on Shabbat! Education Fund In Honor Of ...... From In honor of Max's bar mitzvah ...... Robert and Nancy Lipschutz
Youth Fund In Honor Of ...... From Scott and Jennifer Greenberg ...... Deborah Berman and Bruce Greenberg
Friends of Neve Shalom Nursery Fund In Honor Of ...... From Palter family, on Sydney's 3rd birthday...... Martha Mack Sokolov family, on Daya's 4th birthday ...... Martha Mack Vakhitov family, on Sophie's 4th birthday ...... Martha Mack
12 Neve Shalom Bulletin June 2013
FROM THE RABBI Continued from page 1. over the Kotel has accepted this compromise, and Prime Minister Netanyahu has asked Sharansky to prepare a time table for its implementation.
So what does this all mean? It means that even in a strictly Orthodox environment, where there is a will there is a way. It means that our beloved State of Israel is beginning to accommodate and acknowl- edge that non-Orthodox forms of Judaism in the Diaspora and within Israel have a strong stake in the State and should share in sacred public spaces. What does it NOT mean? It does not mean that all expressions of public religion will be removed from Or- thodox control. That will not change soon. I have had occasion over the years to raise the question of the non-democratic Or- thodox control of public religion in Israel both with Benjamin Netanyahu when he was Foreign Minister, and with Shimon Peres when he was Prime Minister. Both of them answered me as follows. “When the Conservative Movement and Reform Movement have many more individuals who make Aliyah to Israel, and vote for the government, then and only then can we react broadly to your demands.” I can understand their response, even as I am unhappy with the policy. A political sys- tem which depends on coalitions, elec- tions, and a democratic process must re- spond to the population to whom it is responsible, those who live and vote in Israel. But what we can ask them to recog- nize is how we Jews who live in the Dias- pora – with a different kind of Zionism – love Israel in spite of its warts. There is no excuse for excluding us from places like the Kotel.
Above all, for us, our love for the State must transcend these impediments. Israel is still a ref- uge for all Jews. Israel still has more institutions of Torah – Orthodox, Reform and Conservative than anywhere in the world. Israel’s shuls are still filled on Shabbat with pray-ers. Jewish Festivals deter- mine the public calendar. Israel is still democratic and humanitarian. Israel is still inspirational on so many levels. We cannot expect the impossible at this stage in history, but should certainly rejoice at this significant change.
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