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Name: Rabbi Laurence Malinger

Occupation: Rabbi of Temple Sholom in Aberdeen for 11 years

Family: Married for 18 years to Samantha, a trained social worker and currently a stay-at-home mom for their three children, Ally, Joe, and David. Two brothers: Marc, an attorney who lives in Houston with his wife Jill and two sons. Adam works in food service and is married to Andi. They live in Columbus, Ohio, with their two children. Parents Alan and Gail live in Houston.

Community activities: Involved in Rabbinic Leadership for the Jewish Federation of Greater Monmouth County, past president of New Jersey Reform Rabbis Association. A regional rabbinic adviser to NFTY.

Hobbies: Playing sports -- basketball and football -- and reading.

Self-portrait: "I am an enthusiastic leader in the community who encourages involvement in both Jewish and non-Jewish activities to make the world a better place. Particularly, I encourage strong Jewish identity in creating meaningful Jewish lives."

Motto: "I always see the glass half full. I always look at things in a positive way."

Greatest accomplishment: "Creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and part of our congregational family."

Bad Habits: "I'm a workaholic, which sometimes makes me neglect my health."

Favorite TV: "I enjoy the quirkiness of 'Boston Legal' and the family inclusiveness of 'Glee'."

Favorite food: "I really love Chinese food."

Best childhood memory: "Going to the toy store with my grandfather and sharing in the joy of selecting something we could play together. That experience affected me in my career choice so I could share with others in creating joyful moments."

People don't know that... "I have secret desire to sing on Broadway."

Last book I read: "Mitch Albom's 'Have a Little Faith.' I loved the book and just like when people come to reconciliation with their own faith issues, and the book did this beautifully."

Biggest asset in the Jewish community: "The core group of people who really want to strengthen Jewish identity and look at creative ways to do it."

Biggest problem in the Jewish community: "There are too many people who are disconnected with the Jewish community and ask, 'What's in it for me?' rather than seeing it as a communal responsibility."

If I had more time... "I'd create more programs to get more kids involved in Jewish living -- through NFTY or Jewish camping."