Ahavas Achim University. River Ridge Lecture Series. Rabbi Miodownik will speak about the "10 Suggestions." 30 South Adelaide Ave., HIGHLAND PARK. 8:15 p.m. Information, (732) 247-0532. I.L. Peretz Secular Jewish Community. "Ellis Island: Myth and Reality," with speaker Nancy C. Carnevale, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of History, Montclair State University. Rutgers Labor Education Center, Ryders Ln., NEW BRUNSWICK. 8 p.m. Information, Ira Mintz, (732) 545-9691 or info@ilperetz.org.
Saturday, Feb. 14
Congregation Beth Ohr. Daytimers Shabbat service and lunch with Rabbi Wernick. 70 Rte., 516 OLD BRIDGE. Services at 9:30 a.m. Lunch and learn at noon. Information, (732) 257-1523. Congregation B'Nai Tikvah. Wedding-themed dinner-dance. Open bar, cocktail hour, sit-down dinner and more. 1001 Finnegans Ln., NORTH BRUNSWICK. 7:30 p.m. $136 per couple. Reserviations, information, www.bnaitikvah.org or (732)-297-0696. Ahavas Achim University. "Modern Orthodoxy: Can It Be Saved?" with Rabbi Bryan Kinzbrunner. Home of Dov and Barbara Weisman, 424 Magnolia St., HIGHLAND PARK. 8:30 p.m. Information, (732) 247-0532.
Sunday, Feb. 15
Makhelat Hamercaz Jewish Choir of Central NJ. Interactive family program. Features pieces from the choir's repertoire celebrating the Psalms, including traditional and contemporary interpretations of Halleluyah (Psalm 150), and compositions by Salomone Rossi, David Feingold, Stephen Glass, and Shefa Gold. Rutgers Preparatory School (Middle School Building), 1345 Easton Ave., SOMERSET. 11 a.m. Information, (732) 548-2238, Ext. 14 or http://mercazchoir.org. Congregation Ohav Emeth and Young Israel of East Brunswick. "What Will the Future Bring America," with Dr. Kedar, focusing on sources of tension between Islam and the West. 415 Raritan Ave., HIGHLAND PARK. 7 p.m. $10. Information, Esther Kosoffsky (732) 710-1634; Leah Weinberger (917) 597-1702; or Steve Deutsch (908) 420-3878.
YM-YWHA of Union. "A Time to Reach Out," facilitating outreach techniques, will feature Rabbis Yerachmiel Milstein, Yaakov Salamon and Mordechai Becher. 501 Green Ln., UNION. 8-10 p.m. The free program is sponsored by the Gregg and Donna Rothstein family in memory of Joanne Rothstein. To register or for more information: www.kiruv.com; seminars@projectinspire.com; or (646) 291-6191 ext. 201.
Tuesday, Feb. 17
Toms River Hadassah. Joint Meeting with Sisterhood. Sarri SInger discusses her experience with terrorism in Israel. Congregation B'nai Israel, 1488 Old Freehold Rd., TOMS RIVER. 1 p.m. Information, Yvette (732) 255-7386.
YM-YWHA of Union. Ta'am Israeli ... A Taste of Israel cooking class: Dessert recipe. Each month, a different Israeli recipe is made and Israeli current event topics are explored. 501 Green Ln., UNION. 7 p.m. $5. To reserve, please call (908) 289-8112. Wednesday, Feb. 18
Women's Center at Jewish Family and Vocational Service of Middlesex County. Workshop for women (ages 18-47) about credit issues and how to use credit wisely, presented by Bill Sandvig of Wells Fargo Home Mortgage. Topics include assessing debt, evaluating debt to income ratio and strategies to pay down debt while establishing financial goals and saving for the future. 32 Ford Ave., second floor, MILLTOWN. 6-8 p.m. Free; registration required. Information, registration (732) 777-1940.
Thursday, Feb. 19
Hadassah L'Dor V'Dor, Young Women of Raritan Valley Book Club. Tu B'Shevat discussion on Jewish spirituality and the environment. Read "Jewish Homesteader on the Northern Plains," by Rachel Calof. Panera's, 871 Rte. 1 South, NORTH BRUNSWICK. 7:30 pm. $3 members. $7 non-members. To RSVP (by Feb. 1) or for more information, Jennifer (732) 940-2442 or ywhadassahevents@yahoo.com.
Temple Shalom of Aberdeen. Jewish Baseball Heroes throughout U.S. History. In this multimedia presentation, all participants will have fun, learn and receive a free giveaway. No previous baseball experience required. Also, on Feb. 26. 5 Ayrmont Ln., ABERDEEN. 7:30-9 p.m. Free. Information, (732) 566-2621 or www.templeshalomnj.org.
Highland Park Conservative Temple-Congregation Anshe Emeth. "The Double Life of Emma Lazarus," with Professor Esther Schor. South Third Ave., HIGHLAND PARK. 8 p.m. Free. Information, (732) 545-6482. Princeton Jewish Center. Mom's the Word. A play based on the real life experiences of its creators, Dana Covey, Amy Mandelbaum, and Erica Radin. Cockatils, wine, and cheese. 435 Nassau St., PRINCETON. 7 p.m. Information, (609) 921-0100.
Shabbaton, Feb. 20-21
Ahavas Achim University. Shabbat with the "Zoo Rabbi" Natan Slifkin. Friday 8:15 p.m. lecture, "Dinosaurs and the Age of the Universe," followed by Oneg Shabbat (seudah by reservation only: Adults/$20; children under 12/$10). Saturday schedule: "The Animal Kingdom in Jewish Thought" (lecture before Mussaf); Teen-only Oneg, "Mythical Creatures in Judaism" (with Q&A, 4:30 p.m.); "Man and Beast: Our Relationship with Animals" (lecture follows 5:20 p.m. Mincha). 216 S 1st Ave., HIGHLAND PARK. Information, (732) 247-0532.
Friday, Feb. 20
Congregation Neve Shalom. New paradigm for global relations, with Martin Raffel. senior associate executive director, Jewish Council for Public Affairs. 250 Grove Ave., METUCHEN. 8 p.m. Information, Hazzan Levin, (732) 548-2238 ext. 14.
Congregation B'nai Tikvah. Family Shabbat: "Breakfast for Dinner." Wear your pajamas and enjoy breakfast for dinner while we celebrate Shabbat. 1001 Finnegans Ln., NORTH BRUNSWICK. 6 p.m. $8 per adult and free for children ages 2-12. RSVP by Feb. 18. Information, Bobbi (732) 274-2797.
Saturday, Feb. 21
ACTT Ahavas Chesed. Community-Wide Gathering and Ahavas Chesed Module 4 Kickoff Event: "More Than ‘Just' a Chesed — The Incredible Potential of Your Words," with Rabbi Chaim Leite Rebbe, Yeshiva Tiferes Naftoli of Central N.J., Moreh D'Asra, Union Hill Congregation of Manalapan. Congregation Ohr Torah, 48 Edgemount Rd., EDISON. 9 p.m. Information, (732) 993-5376.
Congregation Adath Israel. Havdalah service followed by a festive concert, refreshments. 1958 Lawrenceville Rd., (Rt. 206), LAWRENCEVILLE. 7 p.m. $10 for adults; $7 for children ages 4-12. To purchase tickets, contact the Adath Israel office, (609) 896-4977.
Sunday, Feb. 22
Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple. Jewish film series. "Noa Bat 17." 222 Livingston Ave., NEW BRUNSWICK. 2:30 p.m. Free. Information, (732) 545-6484.
Shimon and Sara Birnbaum JCC. Camp open house. Meet representatives from the NJ "Y" Camps. Campers ages 2 through grade 9. 775 Talamini Rd., BRIDGEWATER. 1-3 p.m. Information, Paige Silberfein (908) 725-6994 ext. 207.
Temple Sha'arey Shalom. "Kung Fu Panda." Free movie; nominal charge for refreshments. Parents from the religious school will be on hand to answer questions on Temple Sha'arey Shalom's educational program. 78 So. Springfield Ave., SPRINGFIELD. 12 p.m. RSVP to the temple office at (973) 379-5387. Solomon Schechter Day School of Greater Monmouth County. Children's Health Fair. Local health care professionals and services will answer questions, demonstrate, hold workshops and distribute information. Topics include nutrition, injury prevention, and proper fitness. Participants include Central State Wellness/Fit Kids, Advanced Orthopedics, Dance Attitudes, LA Kickboxing, Bryan Klein Karate, dentists, chiropractors, art therapists, parenting specialists, pediatricians, and gymnastic studios. 22 School Rd., East, MARLBORO. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Information, Linda Glickstein, (732) 431-5525 or thinkssds@optonline.net.
Jewish Learning Connection of Central New Jersey. "How to Stay Sane in an Insane World," with noted personality David J. Lieberman, Ph.D. How to gain peace of mind while the economy goes to pieces. Includes babysitting and art activities for children and light refreshments. Jewish Community Center Wilf Campus, 1391 Martine Ave., SCOTCH PLAINS. 4-5:30 p.m. Free. For information, advance reservations, or to register for babysitting and children's activities, (908) 355-4850, ext. 108 or info@jlccnj.org
Ahavas Achim University and Ahavas Achim Youth. Tour the Turtle Back Zoo with the "Zoo Rabbi." Torah-based live animal demonstrations with Rabbi Natan Slifkin. 560 Northfield Ave., WEST ORANGE. 10 a.m. $10/person (under 2 free) includes zoo admission and private guided tour by Rabbi Slifkin. Information, (973) 731-5800.
Chabad of Western Monmouth County. Jewish Women Illuminating the World. Brunch, Chinese auction, inspiring speakers, and an artistic presentation of Jewish women through the ages. Morganville Firehouse, 78 Tennent Rd., MORGANVILLE. 11 a.m. $30 with a prepaid reservation and $36 for tickets at the door. Contributions, which include one ticket, can be made in the categories of Golden Patron ($126), Patron ($100), Sponsor ($72), and Donor ($54). For information or reservations, (732) 972-3687.
Raritan Valley Chapter of Hadassah. Chug Ivrit (Hebrew speaking club) for intermediate to advanced speakers. Chat in Hebrew and read a short Hebrew article or story. HIGHLAND PARK home. 11 a.m. Information, Rachel Weintraub at rachel@weintraubworld.net or (732) 819-9298. B'nai B'rith Ketubah Married Couples Unit (40+). Brunch. The Buttonwood Manor, 845 Rte. 34, MATAWAN. 11:30 a.m. $18 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Prospective members are welcome. RSVP by Feb. 20 to Elaine, (908) 232-0062.
Jewish Federation of Greater Middlesex County. We stand with Israel concert featuring cantors from Middlesex County synagogues, The Sons of Tikvah Band, Makehlat Hamerkaz, and more. Congregation B'nai Tikvah, 1001 Finnegans Ln., NORTH BRUNSWICK. 4 p.m. Free, but call for required tickets since seating is limited: (732) 297-0696.
Jewish Federation of Greater Middlesex County. Community planning summit: Reaction to the demographic survey. East Brunswick Jewish Center, 511 Ryders Ln., EAST BRUNSWICK. 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Information, (732) 432-7711.
Tuesday, Feb. 24
Congregation Ahavas Yisrael. Concert on Rosh Chodesh. 216 S. First Ave., HIGHLAND PARK. 7:30 p.m. Family: $36. Adults: $15. Children: $12. Sponsorships are welcome and encouraged. Information, Alec Cohen (732) 317-1784.
Wednesday, Feb.25
Rutgers University, the Allen and Joan Bildner Center. "Ballots, Babies, and Banners of Peace: American Jewish Women's Pre World War II Activism," with Melissa R. Klapper, department of history, Rowan University. Reception follows. Trayes Hall, Douglass Campus Center, 100 George St., NEW BRUNSWICK. 7:30 p.m. RSVP by Feb. 15, (732) 932-2033.
Family and Vocational Service of Middlesex County. "Being a Successful Teenager" group for ages of 13-17 held on Wednesdays. Focuses on ways to successfully improve problem-solving and communication skills while addressing the issues adolescents face on a regular basis with Cheryl Solomon as the instructor. 32 Ford Ave., second floor, MILLTOWN. 6:45-8 p.m. Information, registration, (732)777-1940 or (609) 395-7979.
Allen and Joan Bildner Center for the Study of Jewish Life, Rutgers University. "Ballots, Babies, and Banners of Peace: American Jewish Women's Pre-World War II Activism," with Melissa R. Klapper of Rowan University. Suffrage, reproductive rights, and peace movements will be addressed. Trayes Hall, Douglass Campus Center, 100 George St., NEW BRUNSWICK. 7:30 p.m. Free. Advance registration is requested. Information, jewishstudies.rutgers.edu. To RSVP, email csjlrsvp@rci.rutgers.edu or call (732) 932-2033.
East Brunswick Hadassah. "Reaching new Heights of Spirituality," with Rebbetzin Aviva Wasser. At a private home. 8 p.m. Please RSVP (732) 390-8760 or (732) 432-8024.
Bris Avrohom of Old Bridge Women's Circle. "The hidden and revealed beauty of Esther." Explore the message of Purim and design a piece of jewelry. At the home of Mrs. Dina Kanelsky, OLD BRIDGE. 7:30 p.m. Information, www.BrisAvrohom.org/OldBridge or (732) 316-7600.
Thursday, Feb. 26
Temple Shalom of Aberdeen. Jewish Baseball Heroes throughout U.S. History. In this multimedia presentation, all participants will have fun, learn and receive a free giveaway. No previous baseball experience required. 5 Ayrmont Ln, ABERDEEN. 7:30-9 p.m. Free. Information, (732) 566-2621 or www.templeshalomnj.org.
Friday, Feb. 27
Congregation Ohev Shalom Marlboro Jewish Center. Healing service with Rabbi Shy and Cantor Krieger for anyone concerned about the health — physical or emotional — of themselves, loved ones or friends. 103 School Rd., WEST MARLBORO. 8 p.m. Information, Lauren Varod (732) 536-2300, ext. 111 or LVarod@mjcnj.com.
Saturday, Feb. 28
East Brunswick Hadassah. Peace Treaty Poker. You don't need to know how to play poker to play. An easy fast paced card game. Kosher dairy desserts. 511 Ryders Ln., EAST BRUNSWICK. 8 p.m. $36 per couple and $18 per person. RSVP by Feb. 20 to (732) 651-7953 or (732) 254-5638.
Jewish Family and Children's Service of Greater Mercer County. "An Evening in Denim and Diamonds" fundraiser. Paying tribute to corporate partner and Diamond honoree, PNC Bank, and long-time volunteer and past president, Patricia U. Herst. Dance to the Franklin and Alison Orchestra. Includes silent auction and raffle with prizes that include a $1500 American Express Gift Card and a $500 gift card to Palmer Square. 102 Carnegie Ctr., Hyatt Regency, PRINCETON. 7-11:30 p.m. Information,Irene Newman, development director, irenen@jfcsonline.org or (609) 987-8100 ext. 117.
The Sisterhood of Temple Sholom. "The Improvables," an interactive, improvisational comedy group. 594 N. Bridge St., BRIDGEWATER. 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the door. Information, Carol Rubnitz (908) 837-9016.
Congregation B'nai Israel. Cantor Daniel Green Youth Scholarship Concert features "Magevet" the premier Jewish, Hebrew and Israeli a capella group of Yale University, co-founded by Hazzan Steven Walvick. 1488 Old Freehold Rd., TOMS RIVER. 8 p.m. $18 in advance; students through high school, $5; Patron $118 (includes 2 tickets and name in the program); Sponsor $500 (includes 2 tickets and a listing on advertisements on program). Wine and cheese reception for patrons and sponsors at 7 p.m. Information, (732) 349-1244 or cbitr.org.
Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple. Cabaret Night featuring Piano Dave, Rick Pressler, Mark Fuerstein, Barbara Fisherman, and the rest of the band. BYOB. 222 Livingston Ave., NEW BRUNSWICK. 8 p.m. Information, (732) 545-6484.
Sunday, March 1
Congregation B'nai Tikvah. Judy Chicago's Dinner Party at the Brooklyn Museum. Bus pick up at the temple parking lot 9:30 a.m.; returns at 4:30 p.m. $40 per person includes transportation and admission to the museum. Lunch is extra. A café is available in the museum. Limited to 45 people. If you are a Brooklyn Museum member, deduct $8 for admission and bring your card to get in free. All payments must be made by Feb. 20, payable to Congregation B'nai Tikvah (write "Adult Ed Trip" on the subject line) and mail to Congregation B'nai Tikvah, 1001 Finnegans Lane, North Brunswick, NJ 08902. Information, (732) 297-0696.
Raritan Valley Chapter of Hadassah. Annual Youth Aliyah Brunch. Honoree is Dr. Eva Bamberger Stahl of Highland Park, a Hadassah and Junior Hadassah member for 50 years. Congregation Ahavas Achim , South First Ave., HIGHLAND PARK. 11 a.m. Information, reservations, Susan Baron and Marilyn Rabinowitz, (732) 572-7710 or (732) 985-0612.
Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center. Purim Carnival includes games and prizes, mechanical bull, obstacle course, inflatables for all ages, pony rides, DJ provided by Leonard Bornstein Entertainment, special appearance by "Sparkee", Big Apple "Circus to Go" Clown, face painting, tattoos and much more. Burgers, dogs, falafel and more will be available for purchase. Visitors are encouraged to come in costume and participate in a costume parade. 775 Talamini Rd., BRIDGEWATER. 1-4 p.m. Admission is $4/child or $3/child plus one non-perishable food item to benefit the Food Bank Network of Somerset County. Adults are free. Tickets will be on sale to play games. Information, Debbie Golden, (908) 725-6994 x210 or DGolden@ssbjcc.org.
Makhelat Hamercaz Jewish Choir of Central NJ. "Music of the Psalms: Human Responses to the Gifts and Challenges of Life" features pieces from the choir's repertoire celebrating the Psalms, including traditional and contemporary interpretations of Halleluyah (Psalm 150), and compositions by Salomone Rossi, Stephen Glass, Gerald Cohen, and Shefa Gold. EAST BRUNSWICK Library, 2 Jean Walling Civic Center. 3 p.m. Information, (732) 548-2238, ext. 14 or http://mercazchoir.org.
Elmora Hebrew Center. Dinner and theater party. The question of "Men vs. Women" will pit Rabbi Samuel B. Rosenberg and Howard Markowitz against women led by Agnes Markowitz. Food and entertainment. 420 West End Ave., ELIZABETH. Reservations on a first come, first serve basis. Only paid ticket holders will be assured of entrance. $25 per person. Information, Carole, (908) 353-1740.
Congregation B'nai Israel. Purim Carnival. With games, inflatable rides, popcorn, cotton candy, snow cones, goldfish prizes. Come see Ross Bernstein, "The Magic Man", and Art Kaney, the "Doodle Dude." 171 Ridge Rd., RUMSON. 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Free. Information about the carnival, Eric Mennell at emenell@cbirumson.org or Susan Alderson, youth director at (732) 842-1800 x215.
Tuesday, March 3
The Colonia Chapter of Hadassah. "The Dirty Little Secrets about Cosmetics," with Susan Levinson. Temple Neve Shalom, 250 Grove Ave., METUCHEN. 7:30 p.m. Information, Millie at (732) 381-9054. East Brunswick Hadassah. Women's Health Forum. Dr. Alan Wolkoff, chiropractor, on osteoporosis; Dr. Gay Fried on genetic breast and ovarian cancer; and Dr. Michael Rothman on alternative perspectives on women's health. East Brunswick Jewish Center, 511 Ryders Ln., EAST BRUNSWICK. Free. 7:30 p.m. Information, shalomlinda@aol.com.
Wednesday, March 4
Jewish Family Services of Somerset, Hunterdon, and Warren Counties. Job Seekers support Group. "Crafting a Powerful Elevator Pitch," with John Hadley, career counselor. 150-A West High St., SOMERVILLE. 7-9 p.m. To register, (908) 725-7799.
Thursday, March 5
Allen and Joan Bildner Center for the Study of Jewish Life, Rutgers University. "Fashion and Identity in Israel in the 1950s." Talk and slideshow with Anat Helman. Multipurpose Room of the Busch Campus Center, 604 Bartholomew Rd., PISCATAWAY. 7:30 p.m. Free. Advance registration is requested. Information, jewishstudies.rutgers.edu. To RSVP, email csjlrsvp@rci.rutgers.edu or call (732) 932-2033.
Saturday, March 7
Congregation Beth Ohr. Torahthon. Enjoy a "taste of Torah" at our evening extravaganza of learning, fun, good company, and a rich, fulfilling Jewish experience. Noted speakers include: Rabbi Aaron Benson of East Brunswick Jewish Center, Yossi Bitran of Highland Park, Rabbi Herman Cohen of East Brunswick, Rabbi Eli Garfinkel of Temple Beth El of Somerset, Rabbi Shira Johnston of Solomon Schechter Day School of West Orange, Rabbi Herbert Kavon of SSDS West Orange, Rabbi Nathan Langer of East Brunswick, Rabbi Eugene Wernick of Congregation Beth Ohr Old Bridge, Rabbi Eliezer Zaklikovsky, Chabad Jewish Center, Monroe and Rabbi Melinda Zalma of Congregation Beth Mordecai, Perth Amboy. 70 Rte. 516, OLD BRIDGE. 7:30 p.m.. Cost: Canned food for the Old Bridge Food Pantry. Information, (732) 257-1523.
Temple Beth-El Mekor Chayim. Casino Royale 2 featuring professional gaming tables with craps, Texas Hold ‘Em, Caribbean Stud, poker and blackjack, each staffed by professional dealers, who will also offer free instruction. At the end of the evening, players will take their winnings to bid on an array of outstanding goods and services, including many one-of-a-kind prizes, generously provided by local merchants, famed New Jersey companies, area restaurants and professional sports teams, such as the New York Jets. 338 Walnut Ave., CRANFORD. $35 (if paid in advance, comes with $100 worth of chips; at door, comes with $50 worth of chips). Tickets: Laura Rubin at (908) 276-2649 or Shona Young at (908) 272-4777. Information: (908) 276-9231 or www.tbemc.org.
The Orthodox Forum. "Leadership Issues and Ideological Tensions within Orthodoxy," with Rabbi Dr. Marc D. Angel, rabbi emeritus of Congregation Shearith Israel, N.Y. Congregation Ahavas Achim, 216 South 1st Ave., HIGHLAND PARK. 8:30 p.m. Information, email hpedisonorthodoxforum@gmail.com or Joel Paul at JHPaul@earthlink.com.
Sunday, March 8
JCCWM. Nets vs. Knicks game. $50 for JCC members; $60 for non-members. Price includes a gift from the Nets. Transportation to the IZOD CENTER is not included. 6 p.m. Contact Ian at the JCC to purchase tickets, (732) 683-9300.
Men's Club of Congregation Beth Ohr. Program with composer and clarinetist Jessica Sibelman. Morning minyan at 9 a.m. followed by breakfast. Jessica will demonstrate and explain how classical and Klezmer music have inspired her in writing her own compositions. 70 Route 516, OLD BRIDGE. Information, (732) 257-1523.
Congregation Neve Shalom. Blood drive in memory of Michael Allan Thompson. Please reserve your blood or apherisis platelets. 250 Grove Ave., METUCHEN. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Information, Bruce Levin, (732) 906-1922.
Congregation Neve Shalom. Purim Carnival. Carnival games, moonwalk, prizes, and food. 250 Grove Ave., METUCHEN. 11 a.m.-1p.m. Information, Hazzan Levin, (732) 548-2238 ext. 14.
Monday, March 9
Bris Avrohom of Old Bridge. Purim Bash. Japanese style/buffet dinner includes sushi. Features mime and entertainer Simon Shargo. Megillah reading, hamantashen, live music, Grand Raffle with prizes. Each child with a costume receives a prize. OLD BRIDGE High School (Grade 9 Center) 7 p.m. $7 per child (3-13); $10 adult. Information, www.BrisAvrohom.org/OldBridge or (732) 316-7600.
Congregation B'nai Israel. Celebration of Purim. Abbreviated reading of the Megillah. Bring your grogger (noisemaker) and be prepared to make noise, stamp your feet or boo and hiss each time the name of Haman is mentioned. Wear a costume of Esther, Mordecai, Ahasuerus or Haman, join us for a costume parade and enjoy the Purimspiel acted by children and adults. Desserts will be served including hamantaschen. 171 Ridge Rd., RUMSON. 7:30 p.m. For information about Purim religious services, Allison Newfeld, (732) 842-1800 x202.
Tuesday, March 10
Congregation B'nai Israel. The Book of Esther will be recited in the sanctuary, followed by light Kiddush. 171 Ridge Rd., Rumson. 9-10:30 a.m. Information about Purim religious services contact Allison Newfeld, (732) 842-1800 x202.
Wednesday, March 11
Ocean Township Public library. Jewish literature: Identity and Imagination series discusses "Angels in America" by Tony Kushner. 701 Deal Rd., OCEAN. 7 p.m. Register for the series by calling the Ocean Township Public library (732) 531-5092.
Friday, March 13
Congregation Beth-El. Authentic Israeli Dinner. 91 Jefferson Blvd., EDISON. Adults/$12. Children (5-13)/$5. RSVP by March 9 to Judy Mansbach, (732) 248-0897.
Congregation Neve Shalom. Scholar in Residence Gary Rendsburg. Dinner followed by services and topic, "The Exodus Account in light of Egyptian Literary and Magical Texts." 250 Grove Ave., METUCHEN. 6:45 p.m. Reservations for dinner required, $16. Information, Hazzan Levin, (732) 548-2238 ext. 14.
Saturday, March 14
Congregation Neve Shalom. Scholar in Residence Gary Rendsburg. D'var Torah, Shabbat luncheon and discussion, "Biblical scruples from its most Inscrutable book: Lessons from Leviticus." 250 Grove Ave. METUCHEN. 9:30 a.m. Information, Hazzan Levin, (732) 548-2238 ext. 14.
East Brunswick Jewish Center. Purim Gala honoring Sherryl and Mickey Kaufman, EBJC members for close to 30 years. 511 Ryders Ln., EAST BRUNSWICK. Information, (732) 257-7070.
Adath Israel Congregation. Annual auction of fine art, sports memorabilia and sculptures. 1958 Lawrenceville Rd., (Route 206), LAWRENCEVILLE. 8:30 p.m. $8 per person, advance ticket purchase is preferred. For tickets and information, Cynthia Molino, (609) 896-4977 email cmolino@adathisraelnj.org or go to adathisraelnj.org.
Sunday, March 15
Bikur Cholim of Raritan Valley in conjunction with St. Peters University Hospital. Health Fair: "An Update on Health Trends." Rabbi Pesach Raymon Yeshiva, 2 Harrison St., EDISON. 1-5 p.m. Information Cindy Borell (732) 580-5055.
Monday, March 16
Monroe Township Chapter of Hadassah. "Israel remembered," with Hadassah Aylat, who will share her experience of living in Israel for 30 years. Refreshments. Concordia Congregation, Concordia Shopping Center, MONROE. 1 p.m. Information, Thelma Miller (609) 655-8466.
Sisterhood of Neve Shalom. Passover Wine and Recipe Exchange. 250 Grove Ave. METUCHEN. 7 p.m. Information, Sandy Schwemer, (732) 548-7431.
Tuesday, March 17
Toms River Hadassah. "Herbal Medicine and the Jewish Perspective," with Rabbi Dancour. Congregation B'nai Israel, 1488 Old Freehold Rd., TOMS RIVER. 1 p.m. Information,Yvette (732) 255-7386.
Highland Park Conservative Temple-Cong. Anshe Emeth and the Raritan Valley Chapter of Hadassah. Peter Stavrianidis of Venus Jewelers, GIA Graduate Gemologist and AGS Certified will present "The History of Jewelry from Antiquity to Modern Times." Door prizes and refreshments. South Third Ave., HIGHLAND PARK. 7:30 p.m. Information, Marilynrab@aol.com.
Thursday, March 19
Bat Shalom Hadassah of Jackson-Howell. Kosher Passover wine and cheese tasting (for ages 21+). Westlake Mews, South Cooksbridge Rd., JACKSON.7:30 p.m. $5 per person. Please call Myra Salz at (732) 928-9653.
Saturday, March 21
Congregation Ohav Emeth. The Kosher Hypnotist, Ronnie Baras. 415 Raritan Ave., HIGHLAND PARK. 9 p.m. In advance: $10. At door: $15. Information, Jason, djecohen@yahoo.com and Evelyn, (732) 247-3038. Sunday, March 22
Congregation Ahavas Achim. 120th Anniversary Dinner and Journal. Guests of Honor are Mindy and Seth Berman. A Special Recognition for Lifetime Achievement will be presented to Hannah and Dr. Abe Feigenbaum. 216 South 1st Ave., HIGHLAND PARK. Call for time. Information, Rachel Weintraub, (732) 247-0532.
Sunday, March 29
Family Concert Fund, Temple Shalom's Sisterhood and PTO. Beth Schafer in concert with Temple Shalom's youth and adult choirs. Beth is the cantorial leader of Temple Shir Shalom in Oviedo, Fla. Temple Shalom, 5Ayrmont Ln., ABERDEEN. 12 p.m. Tickets available in advance: $5 per child, $15 per adult. Call the temple office, (732) 566-2621 or email Margo Wolfson at biomusicmm@aol.com.
Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple. Central New Jersey Youth Choir Zimriyah. Come join our junior choir as they join with other choirs throughout central New Jersey. Featuring music, ruach, a reception, and dessert. 222 Livingston Ave., NEW BRUNSWICK. 3 p.m. Information, (732) 545-6484.
Beth El Synagogue's Werner Lecture Fund. Chamber music concert with the Brunell String Quartet, alumnae of the Tanglewood Music Center. Members of the quartet have performed at the Kennedy Center, Ozawa Hall and Carnegie Hall. 50 Maple Stream Rd., EAST WINDSOR. 2 p.m. Free. RSVP to the synagogue office, (609) 443-4454.
Monday, March 30
Congregation Beth-El. "Ladies Night Out" Chinese Dinner and Bingo Party. Bring your own marker or purchase one at the door. Great prizes from local merchants. 91 Jefferson Blvd., EDISON. 6:15 p.m. $25 includes buffet dinner, admission and bingo sheets. RSVP by March 20 to Jody at (732) 991-6063 or Wendy at (732) 463-0672.
Tuesday, March 31
Congregation Neve Shalom. "Genetic Diseases," with Adele Schneider, M.D. director of Clinical Genetics, Albert Einstein Medical Center, Philadelphia. Refreshments will be served. 250 Grove Ave., METUCHEN. 7-9:30 p.m. Information, Sheila (732) 549-0533.