December 5, 2008
Biggest dreidel in the world in Basking Ridge
The "largest Hanukkah dreidel in the world" can be found at the Chabad Jewish Center in Basking Ridge.
The largest Hanukkah dreidel in the world stands proudly in front of the Chabad Jewish Center in Basking Ridge, generating stares and proud smiles from passers-by.
The dreidel has become a local landmark during the holiday season, rising more than 18 feet above the busy intersection of Valley Road and King George Road.
On Wednesday, Dec. 24 the third day of Hanukkah the community is invited to a Hanukkah party with fun games, and good holiday food followed by menorah lighting at the dreidel, 4:30-6 p.m. at the Chabad Jewish Center 3048 Valley Road, Basking Ridge.
A dreidel is a spinning top associated with the holiday of Hanukkah that celebrates the victory of a small Jewish army over their oppressors.
In its 12th year, the dreidel kindles a strong community spirit and ignites Jewish pride during this celebration of light's victory over darkness.
The dreidel is also used as a part of the Hanukkah curriculum for both the Zimmer preschool and the Chabad Hebrew School. Children from both schools, as well as community children, are invited inside the dreidel and learn about the dreidel and its story.
Stop by any time for a peak in the dreidel, and take home your very own mini dreidel.
The dreidel will be constructed on Sunday, Dec. 7 at 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. by community members of the Chabad Jewish Center.
For group tours and further details call (908) 604-8844 or log on to www.chabadcentral.org.
New leadership at JCC of Greater Monmouth
The JCC of Greater Monmouth County announces the resignation of its longtime professional leader, Jess Levy. Jess Levy intends to transition his responsibilities, as they relate to the JCC, over the next several months, while continuing his responsibilities of creating a separate Board, endowment, and programming for the Axelrod Performing Arts Center ("APAC"). This change in leadership comes after 25 years of dedicated service to the JCC by Jess Levy.
In the ensuing months, the Board of the JCC and its interim director, Aaron Rosenfeld, will work with Jess Levy to assure a smooth transition of all JCC-related responsibilities. It is the intent of the Board to maintain the quality services the center provides, as well as to develop new and exciting programs for the community.
Dr. Brian Krost, president of the board stated, "The JCC of Greater Monmouth County is most appreciative of the 25 years of service that Jess Levy devoted to the community. Without his commitment, the remarkable progress of the JCC would not have been possible. We will look forward to Jess' support during the transition and for many years to come."
With his resignation, Levy plans to work with the Board of Governors and the newly created Axelrod Performing Arts Center Committee to expand funding and finalize governance for APAC. He is quoted as saying "it has truly been a privilege to work for a remarkable group of leaders, volunteers and donors. Without their support, my personal success as well as the success and longevity of the JCC would not have been possible." Jess Levy raised his family in the community, and looks forward to spending time as a user and volunteer of the JCC in the coming years.
Chairman of the Board of Governors, Donald Epstein, continued, "Jess has been both a symbol of stability for the past 25 years and the mortar that has helped build the strong and diverse Jewish community that we all enjoy today. I have had the privilege of working with Jess for all of those years in both joyous and challenging times. He has been and will continue to be a dedicated friend and advocate of the JCC's mission. I look forward to continuing to work with Jess as we look to establish a strong programmatic and financial foundation for the Axelrod Performing Arts Center in 2009."
During his tenure, with Jess' leadership, the JCC has had many noteworthy accomplishments. They include:
The accomplishments over the past quarter century are too numerous to list. The boards of the JCC will continue to build upon the many successes that Jess has helped shape over the past two and a half decades. The Board looks forward to Jess' commitment to help the JCC, the Axelrod Performing Arts Center and the entire community, continue to grow and be prosperous into the future.
The JCC of Greater Monmouth County is a non-profit organization that has been serving local families for more than 67 years. With diverse programming targeting infants through seniors, the JCC helps connect its members to fitness and community - one family member at a time.
For more information on programs and initiatives of the JCC of Greater Monmouth County please call (732) 531-9100.
Family healthcare expo at Sha'arey Shalom
The Brotherhood of Temple Sha'arey Shalom, Springfield presents "Family Healthcare Expo Brunch" on Sunday, Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 78 South Springfield Ave.
Discover the key to a healthy lifestyle. There is something for all from children to senior citizens. "Hands-on" services and professionals will be in attendance. A brunch buffet will include bagels, muffins, coffee, tea, juice, and other breakfast treats. This will be a fun event for the entire family. Admission is free for all children. The public is invited to attend. A $5 donation for brunch is requested.
The "hands-on" services and professionals include: spinal exam and evaluation for foot orthotics by Dr. Steven Bacall, Springfield Holistic Wellness Center, Chiropractor; Swedish massage and essential oils by Kerri-Jude Bacall, Springfield Holistic Wellness Center, RN and Certified Massage Therapist; Reiki and Integrative Energy Therapy by Hayley Kamis, Healing Hands Network; Acupuncture/Acupressure by Orest Pelechaty, Center for Integrated Holistic Medicine; instruction on proper dental care by Dr. Seth Hammer, Hammer Dental Associates; Family and Cosmetic Dentistry; oral evaluation by Dr. Brett Handsman, Specialists in Orthodontics; Nutrition consultation by Dr. Shavon Jackson, N.D. Nutritionist and Wellness Consultant, Fresh & Wholesome Market; Check blood pressure and body mass index by Jaclyn Herzlinger, RN; Tae Kwon Do for health demo by Master Roy McLean, Millennium Martial Arts Academy, Cardio Kickboxing and Martial Arts (Kids can wear their own uniforms/belts and join in); Yoga class, Hatha and/or Kriplau style by a YMCA instructor; and Children's tumbling class by Roger Walker, Sunburst Gymnastics (Kids get ready to sweat!).
Additionally, the Sisterhood of Temple Sha'arey Shalom has available for purchase "Entertainment 2009" books for $25.
Membership through the purchase of "Entertainment 2009" entitles one to hundreds of discounts for dining out, casual and family dining, fast food and carryout, entertainment and sports, travel and hotels and retail and services. Contact Lorie Needleman through the Temple office, telephone number, (973) 379-5387, to purchase.
Temple Sha'arey Shalom is a mid-sized Reform congregation attracting members from the surrounding communities in Union, Essex, Warren, and Morris counties. The Religious School and Preschool offer wonderful programs, early registration is always encouraged. Active Sisterhood, Brotherhood, Youth and Renaissance groups are always welcoming newcomers. Diverse programs suit many interests. Some of the many programs offered include: adult bar/bat mitzvah classes, conversational Hebrew classes, a Rosh Chodesh group (women's study group), study minyans, book discussion groups, and speakers and trips sponsored by their very active Renaissance group.
Gain knowledge of healthy lifestyle and seek information from local professionals at the Temple Sha'arey Shalom Brotherhood "Family Healthcare Expo Brunch" on Sunday, Dec. 7. For additional information contact Temple Sha'arey Shalom Brotherhood president, Jason Pleva through the Temple office (973) 379-5387 or email office@shaarey.org.
Additional information can also be found on the Temple's Web site www.shaarey.org.
Beth Ahm: Six months free membership
Temple Beth Ahm of Aberdeen is thrilled to offer our Jewish communities of southern Middlesex and northern Monmouth Counties (i.e. Aberdeen, Colts Neck, Freehold, Hazlet, Keyport, Manalapan, Marlboro, Matawan, Old Bridge, Sayreville) a very special Hanukkah Gift: a six-month complimentary Temple membership. Your membership will be in effect from Hanukkah 2008 through June 2009.
Take part in the Temple's unique programs, educational and celebratory events. Experience the Temple's daily minyan and Shabbat services in a comfortable, non-judgmental setting. Meet the Temple's congregation family. Meet the rabbi. Find out about the Temple's wonderful youth programs, Religious School, preschool, and summer camp. Take this opportunity to learn why Temple Beth Ahm is "A Family Place, A Spiritual Home."
Certain restrictions may apply. Please call the Temple office at (732) 583-1700 or stop in for details. Temple Beth Ahm is conveniently located minutes off the Garden State Parkway at 550 Lloyd Road in Aberdeen. We are closer than you think.
Camping association picks E. Brunswick man
At its meeting Nov. 13 the board of the Habonim Dror Camping Association named Steven J. Weinberg of East Brunswick as its director. This position was created to facilitate the identified opportunities for synergy in the operation of the eight Habonim Dror camps serving the North American Jewish community.
The eight camps operated by the Habonim Dror Movement are: Galil (Greater Philadelphia/Southern N.J.); Gesher (Toronto/Ottawa/Montreal); Gilboa (Los Angeles/Southwest); Miriam (Vancouver/Seattle); Moshava (Washington/Baltimore); Naaleh (New York/New England); Tavor (Milwaukee/Chicago/Detroit); MBI (Israel travel camp).
The Habonim Dror Camping Association traces its roots to the early days of Habonim Dror camping. Weinberg's predecessor directors from the early days of the HDCA include Velvl Lehr and Sid Troy. Between 1987 and 2000, the Habonim Dror Camping Association operated under the auspices of Habonim Dror North America - the Labor Zionist Youth Movement partner of all of the camps. Since then, it has operated autonomously with volunteer leadership from all of the participating machanot.
Weinberg has been serving the movement in many capacities over the past 20 years including 15 years as chair of the Galil Camp Committee, treasurer of the Habonim Dror Foundation and co-founder of Habonet, officer in LZA and Ameinu, and a member of the President's Cabinet and national secretary of the American Zionist Movement. Until his appointment as Director of the HDCA, he was a senior member of its executive committee.
The organizational development work within the HDCA that led to the appointment of a paid director has been facilitated by David Sharken and Michael Miloff, mentors provided by the Grinspoon Institute for Jewish Philanthropy - the same organization that has been doing such germinal board and fundraising development work with all of the individual Habonim Dror camps.
Joining the eight Habonim Dror camps on the HDCA Governance Group are representatives of the Habonim Dror Foundation and Ameinu.
According to Weinberg, his initial focus as HDCA director will be on helping the camps increase enrollment and on working together to reduce expenses. He will be working with the full time executive directors of all eight of the member camps and with their Camp Committees.
Neshama Carlebach in Clark Dec. 21
The concert committee of Temple Beth O'r/Beth Torah invites the public to a showcase performance by Neshama Carlebach, daughter of the late Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach, and a performer in her own right. The performance will be held on Sunday, Dec. 21, at 4 p.m., at Temple Beth Or/Beth Torah, 111 Valley Road, in Clark. Blending her own style of pop music with spiritually inspired messages, the guitar strumming Carlebach will also be featuring the Green Pastures Baptist Church Choir, a 14-piece gospel choir.
Neshama worked with her legendary father Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach for about five years before his passing in 1994. Heralded as "the singing rabbi," the senior Carlebach brought a folk style akin to Pete Seeger to Jewish themes starting in the late 1960s. After Shlomo's unexpected death, Neshama underwent a reassessment of her career, and chose to embrace the legend of her father, to interpret his message of hope, while at the same time adding her personal touch to his teachings.
Cantor Steven Stern, who serves as the spiritual leader of Temple Beth Or/Beth Torah, will be leading a candle lighting ceremony on the first night of Hanukkah after the concert, when the Temple Beth O'r/Beth Torah Youth Chorale will lead everyone in lighting the Hanukkah menorah and in singing a number of the favorite holiday songs. "Neshama brings a deep spirituality to her work," Stern said, "and blends it with a sophistication that has a very broad appeal. One can't help but be inspired by her music and her presence - hearing her perform is the perfect way to usher in the Festival of Lights."
Frequently compared to her father, Carlebach does not feel her career is overshadowed by his legacy. If anything, she believes she is richer both on stage and off for having been his daughter. And like with every new generation, there are differences. Unlike her father, who performed solo, accompanying himself on guitar, Carlebach works with five backup musicians. "There's a lot of jazz influence in my music," she said. Recently, the Green Pastures Baptist Church Choir has become an important part of Carlebach's act. Reverend Roger Hambrick, leader of the choir was introduced to Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach's songs years ago by Rabbi Shmuel Herfled of the Hebrew Institute and incorporated some songs into his choir's repertoire. Neshama was invited to sing with the choir during a Martin Luther King celebration and a loving relationship was fostered.
Tickets are on sale now and can be obtained by calling the TBO/BT office at (732) 381-8403. The Concert Committee is pleased to announce that sponsorships for the concert are also being offered. For a commitment of $500, concert goers will be given four tickets at premier seating, a copy of the new CD, their names in the concert program, and a chance to meet and chat with Neshama and her musicians at a food tasting schedule for after the concert. For $180 a couple, guests will receive preferred seating and a chance to meet with Neshama. Due to a committed following, Neshama's show is expected to sell out quickly, so interested parties are encouraged to purchase their tickets early.
Interested parties are invited to preview the beautiful sounds of Neshama at www.neshamacarlebach.com. For more on Temple Beth O'r/Beth Torah, including other events and membership information, please call the synagogue office at (732) 381-8403.
LegoŽ menorah for medical center
On Sunday, Dec. 7, 2008 a large LegoŽ menorah will be constructed by members of the Friendship Circle at Chabad of Western Monmouth County, and will be presented to the pediatric unit at CentraState Medical Center in Freehold.
The Friendship Circle extends a helping hand to families who have children with special needs, involving them in a full range of social and Judaic programs. While assisting families, the teenage volunteers become extremely enriched - a friendship which works both ways.
"Each year, the Friendship Circle presents an exciting Hanukkah program designed for special needs children that is fun, educational, and hands-on," said Chanale Wolosow, program director. "Our volunteers wanted to help these children share the holiday joy with those less fortunate who are in the hospital and the large Lego menorah was the perfect idea."
"It is so wonderful that I can teach my child to give back to others, after all the love that she has received from the Friendship Circle at Chabad," said Carla Israel, mother of 13-year-old Eliza who has been at Friendship Circle since its inception in 2001.
The Lego menorah was designed by Rabbi Yitzchok Schmukler at the Chabad in Houston, Texas.
"It wasn't easy to design," Schmukler said. "One of our staff spoke to an architect who has done similar Lego projects and he said that what we wanted to do was not going to work with Lego. But youthful enthusiasm is not so easily deterred. The kids are creative and came up with helpful tips. Doesn't Hanukkah teach us to overcome challenges?"
The largest Lego menorah ever built was assembled by the youngsters of Chabad of Western Monmouth County at the Freehold Raceway Mall. That effort was copied throughout the world. This year, the portable menorah that was constructed is somewhat smaller; five feet wide and three feet tall.
Arie Lipnick of AIPAC at Beth El Jan. 6
On Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2009 at 8 p.m., Beth El Synagogue of East Windsor will present Arie Lipnick discussing "The New Political Landscape: Maintaining the U.S.-Israel Relationship."
On the same day that more than 55 new members of Congress will be sworn into office, Arie Lipnick, AIPAC mid-Atlantic regional political director, will analyze the makeup of this new Congress and administration, and what it will signify for the future of the U.S.-Israel relationship. Join us to not only learn more about getting involved in pro-Israel politics, but to celebrate the strength and vitality of the special relationship between the United States and Israel!
The American Israel Public Affairs Committee is the only American organization whose sole mission is to lobby Congress about legislation that strengthens the relationship between the United States and Israel.
Every day the professional staff and members of AIPAC are hard at work helping to educate members of Congress, candidates for public office, policy-makers in the state houses and in the White House about the importance of the U.S.-Israel friendship. Headquartered in Washington, the organization has 10 regional offices throughout the nation focused on bringing our message to legislators throughout the country.
To RSVP or for more information please contact Seth Mirowitz at (215) 587-4104 ext. 3302 or smirowitz@aipac.org.
Beth El Synagogue is located at 50 Maple Stream Road, East Windsor.
New executive director at Anshe Emeth
Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple in New Brunswick is pleased to welcome Heather Kibel as executive director. She comes to us with years of experience working in professional Jewish life. She has been director of the North American Alliance for Jewish Youth, where she was responsible for overseeing a large budget, developing Web sites, organizing and facilitating meetings and conferences, working with boards and membership and was involved in grant development from national foundations.
"I love her, she's the best," said synagogue president Susan Kohn of East Brunswick. "Her organizational skills, her outgoing personality and her self-esteem - she's confident in who she is."
Kohn described Kibel as a "yes" person but not in the negative connotations of the word. Kibel is a yes person in the sense that when presented with a challenge, change or new idea her response is "yes," and not a "no."
Prior to her work at NAAJY Heather served as alumni coordinator and Israel programs supervisor for national Young Judaea. In that position she was involved in recruitment, training, publicity, and alumni services to this well-known and long-standing national Zionist youth organization.
She also has been involved in leadership positions through her volunteer efforts on behalf of Hadassah. She currently serves as Hadassah's Southern N.J. Region vice president for fundraising.
She is an active member of Temple Neve Shalom of Metuchen, where she serves as a Torah reader and tutor of b'nai mitzvah students. Her three children attend the Solomon Schechter Day School in East Brunswick.
We welcome Heather, her husband Philip, and their family into our Temple family.
Emanu-El presents the comedy "Squabbles"
Enjoy the side splitting laughs that come from pitting a young couple against their ever arguing father and mother-in-law in the play "Squabbles," written by Marshall Karp and brought to you by Temple Emanu-El in Westfield. Saturday, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. the show is being presented "Dinner Theatre" style with hors d'oeuvres, carving stations, dessert, and a cash bar at $54 per person. Additional performances are Thursday, Dec. 11 at 8 p.m. and a Sunday matinee, Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. at $18 per person and $10 for students and seniors. The play is a hilarious look at what seems to be happening more and more lately to "the sandwich generation"; young families having to deal with both their kids and their parents!
The author is an advertising executive who wrote such famous lines as "Thank you Paine Webber" and television shows including "Baby Talk" with George Clooney. The comedy has played to full houses throughout the world in several languages. Directed by Ken Rosenblum and assistant directed by Laurie Barnett, the play features local veteran performers Jonathan Fishman, Chuck Azen, Shelly Narotzky, Cynthia Weinberg, Sam Rosalsky, Alan LeVine, and Marci Fisher in an ensemble cast that keeps the laughs coming.
Temple Emanu-El Players have also performed "The Sunshine Boys" and the musical "Two by Two" to rave reviews, both directed by Ken Rosenblum.
For tickets or information please contact the Temple office or Jackie Master, communications coordinator, at (908) 232-6770, jmaster@tewnj.org or visit our Web site at www.tewnj.org.