Home

Coming Attractions
October 24, 2008

Saturday, Oct. 25

Highland Park Conservative Temple  Congregation Anshe Emeth. Screening of dysfunctional family comedy, "My Mexican Shiva." When the exuberant patriarch of a Mexico City family dies of a heart attack in the middle of a raucous mariachi party, he leaves a web of secrets and relationships that must be untangled over the course of his seven-day shiva (the prescribed mourning period in Jewish custom). 201 S. 3rd Ave., Highland Park. 8 p.m. Information, Udi Shorr at (732) 819-9850.

Temple Emanu- El. Simchat Shabbat worship service. Led by a rabbi and a song leader, this service offers an informal, intimate worship experience conducive to adults and families, followed by bagels and coffee. Those who wish are invited to remain after services for Torah study. All are welcome. 756 East Broad St., Westfield. 9-10:15 a.m. Information, Carolyn Shane, (908) 232-6770 or cshane@tewnj.org.

Sunday, Oct. 26

Beth El Synagogue's Werner Lecture Fund of East Windsor. Researching Our Recent Roots. Join Stephen Cohen and the Genealogy Club as they guide you, inform you and encourage you to research your recent roots and create your own family tree. Admission is free and refreshments will be served. 50 Maple Stream Road, East Windsor. Information, (609) 443-4454.

Temple Beth El of Somerset. Honoring John and Barbara Gleason. The work John and Barbara Gleason of the Gleason Funeral Home have done for members of the congregation for the past 37 years deserves special recognition. Now, after all the years of the Gleason family taking care of Temple Beth El's needs in the kindest and most respectful way, it is the synagogue's turn to publicly recognize them, and so there is a dinner dance in their honor. 1489 Hamilton St., Somerset. If you would like an invitation to attend the dinner, please contact Phyllis Miller at Phyllis.miller@gmail.com, or call the temple, (732) 873-2325.

The YM-YWHA of Union. Dr. Nathan Reiss, Jewish Historical Society of Central NJ, "Am I my Brother's Cousin?" Jewish Genealogy." 501 Green Ln., Union. 11 a.m. Information, (908) 289-8112.

JCC's Axelrod Performing Arts Center. Monmouth Symphony Orchestra. One of the finest symphony orchestras in New Jersey, it will make its Axelrod debut with an enchanting performance conducted by Roy D. Gussman and featuring Oscar Petty on oboe. Including pieces by Sibelius, Lombardo and Haydn. 100 Grant Ave., Deal Park. 3 p.m. Tickets: $30 adults, $25 seniors, and $5 students with ID. Tickets available at the box office at (732) 531-9100 x142 or through MSO at (732) 842-5751.

Temple Emanu-El. Presidential Campaign Forum. Moderated by Dr. Susan Fuhrman, a Temple member who serves as President of Teacher's College at Columbia University. High ranking representatives of the Obama and McCain campaigns will appear to discuss key issues. This event is open to all. Coffee, juice and bagels erved.10 a.m. No charge; co-sponsored by Sisterhood and the Social Action committee. 756 East Broad St., Westfield. Information, Carolyn Shane, Executive Director, (908) 232-6770, cshane@tewnj.org, or www.tewnj.org.

The Sisterhood and Men's Club of Temple Beth O'r/Beth Torah. "Your Memory." Frank Mathews of the Speakers Bureau of Rahway Hospital will take a light-hearted look at memory. A light breakfast will be served. Free. 111 Valley Rd., Clark. 9:45 a.m. Please RSVP by Oct.23. Information, (732) 381-8403 or (908) 499-4073.

The Raritan Valley chapter of Hadassah. Will hold its annual "Mitzvah of Love Brunch." The Honoree will be Vickie Zagorin. The chairperson for this event is Dr. Eva Bamberger Stahl. There will be musical selections by Yaffa Schlisserman and Marc Goldring in keeping with the Oct. World Music Days that were created and launched by the Daniel Pearl Foundation. 216 S 1st Ave., Highland Park. 11 a.m. Information, please call Marcia at (732) 572-2086.

YM-YWHA of Union County. "Beaufort," Award-winning Israeli film, English subtitles. 501 Green Ln., union. 1 p.m. $4, reservation suggested. Information, (908) 289-8112.

YM-YWHA of Union County. Lifeguard Certification Course.... Pre-test. 30 hour Red Cross Class includes First Aid/CPR. Sundays & Tuesday nites through Nov. 16th. No charge for try-outs, must be strong swimmer and age 15 or over. 501 Green Ln., Union. If accepted, class is $375, ($275 for Y members). Information, (908) 289-8112.

Monday, Oct. 27

Mamaloshen. Meeting will be held with Rabbi Michael Klein of Congregations Ahavat Achim and Ahavat Shalom. Refreshments will follow. Manchester Municipal Building, Rte. 37 and Colonial Dr., Manchester. 1 p.m. Information, call Julie (732) 323-8225 or Joe at (732) 323-0090.

The Jewish Learning Center of Monmouth County. Free Hebrew Reading Crash Course. The classes will take be held on five consecutive Monday evenings. Participants will be reading Hebrew words after just one class, and will master the entire Hebrew alphabet by the end of the course. Jewish Learning Center at 138 Pine Brook Rd., Manalapan. 7:45-9 p.m. Information, Jewish Learning Center at (732) 683-0244.

YM-YWHA of Union County. Kickboxing Classes for Women Only. Mon. and Wed. 7:30 p.m. With Certified Trainer Alison Tillbrook. 19 sessions 10/27-12/31. 501 Green Ln., Union. $100. Mention Coupon #1006 and receive a $10 discount Information, (908) 289-8112.

Tuesday, Oct. 28

Toms River Hadassah. L. A. Convention Highlights brought to you on DVD. Congregation B'nai Israel, 1488 Old Freehold Rd., Toms River. 1 p.m. Information, Yvette (732) 255-7386.

Colonia Chapter of Hadassah. "A History of Jews in the Fashion Industry" with Hazel Rabinowitz. Temple Neve Shalom, 250 Grove Ave., Metuchen. 12 p.m. Information, Millie (732) 381-9054.

Raritan Valley Chapter of Hadassah. "The Greening of Highland Park and what does it mean" with Highland Park Mayor Meryl Frank. 216 S 1st Ave., Highland Park. 7:30 p.m. Information, Norma (732) 846-6120.

YM-YWHA of Union County. Watercolor Painting Class begins. 501 Green Ln., Union. 7:30 pm. $75 for 8 weeks ($55 members) Mention coupon #1006 and get $10 discount. Information, (908) 289-8112.

Toms River Hadassah. L.A. Convention Highlights brought to you on DVD. Congregation B'nai Israel-1488 Old Freehold Rd., Toms River. 1 p.m. Information, Yvette (732) 255-7386.

Wednesday, Oct. 29

Solomon Schechter Day School of Raritan Valley. Open House. 511 Ryders Ln., East Brunswick. 9:30 a.m. RSVP to Ruth Bash at (732) 238-7971 or
bashr@ssdsrv.org.

Kathleen Ostertag, M.A., L.P.C., Counselor and Geriatric Consultant, Aging with Dignity and Choice, LLC. "Caring for a Loved One with Dementia." Successfully care giving for someone with memory impairment. Speaker will be available to answer questions on dealing with the symptoms of memory loss and the stress that might accompany care giving. Share your stories, inspiration and learn you are not alone in this difficult care giving process. Light dinner provided. The Avalon Assisted Living at Hillsborough, 393 Amwell Rd. 6:30 p.m. Please call to reserve a seat at (908) 874-7200.

The Chabad Jewish Center of Monroe. Celebrating the Jewish Woman. featuring the Singing Rebbetzin, Forsgate Country Club Monroe. 1 p.m. $36. Space is limited. RSVP (732) 656-1616 or rabbi@chabadmonroe.org.

The JCC of Central NJ. The Jewish Film Festival of Central New Jersey. "Noodle." This Israeli movie tells the tale of Miri, a twice-widowed El Al Flight attendant, whose life is turned topsy-turvy when her Chinese housekeeper is suddenly deported from Israel. Rialto Theater, 250 East Broad St., Westfield. 7:30 p.m. The advance purchase cost for JCC members, seniors (age 65 and up), students and members of sponsoring organizations is $10 for individual tickets and $38 for a series subscription that includes one ticket for each film. The cost for all others is $12 for individual tickets and $46 for a series subscription. At the door, the cost is $15 per ticket for everyone. Purchase tickets in person at the JCC Member Services Desk or online at www.jccnj.org. Information, Call Sandra Kenoff or Michele Dreiblatt, (908) 889-8800, ext. 221 and 205.

East Brunswick Hadassah. Paid up membership gala. Featuring fashion show by Rachels of North Brunswick. We will be honoring annual and life members of 25 years or more. All proceeds from this event will benefit the Marvelous Works of Hadassah. We will be serving a delicious catered meat/vegetarian buffet from Ma'adan Caterers. East Brunswick Jewish Center 511 Ryders Ln., East Brunswick. 6:30 p.m. $30. Information, Andrea (732) 406-1923 or Judy at heyjude5052@aol.com. RSVP by Oct 23rd. Walk-ins without RSVP will be charged $36.

The JCC of Central NJ. College Bound Workshop. Free JCC Program Gives Students, Parents the Inside Scoop on Applying to College Today. Presented by Lisa Bleich, president of College Bound Mentor, LLC, Westfield. Bleich will help students identify their strengths, explain potential conflicts and recommend ways of avoiding such problems. By focusing on their strengths, students will be able to make the most out of their high school years and minimize the stress and time demands of the application process. Teen Lounge at the JCC, 1391 Martine Ave., Scotch Plains. 7-8:30 p.m. Information, (908)889-8800, x221.

Jewish League for Israel (AJLI). America's Relationship With Israel: How Will It Change With the Next President? Lunch forum with Elana Lichtenstein, the Southern Connecticut Director for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee
(www.aipac.org) will speak at our next American Jewish League for Israel (AJLI) Lunch Forum. Elana will discuss how the candidates differ on approaches to Israel issues. Jewish National Fund (JNF) building,42 East 69th St., (between Park and Madison Ave.), New YOrk. The nearest subway is the Hunter College - 68th St. stop on the Number 6 train. `12 p.m. $10 Members; $13 Non-Members. For security purposes and to order lunch, reservations must be made by Oct. 27. Please contact Jeff Scheckner at (212) 371-1583 or via email at AJLIJMS@aol.com.

Thursday, Oct. 30

The Highland Park Conservative Temple-Congregation Anshe Emeth. Lecture entitled "Before and After Kristallnacht: German Jewish Refugees in the United States" by Professor Judith Gerson. South Third Ave., Highland Park. 8 p.m. Members -$5 and non-members-$7. Information, call the Temple office, (732) 545-6482.

Saturday, Nov. 1

JCC's Axelrod Performing Arts Center. Pacific Encore Performances, an internationally acclaimed musical repertory company. They will stir your hearts with the world's most beloved melodies from Israeli folk songs to the very Best of Broadway and the greatest hits of opera and operetta. This Fall their Premiere Television Special will be filmed by New Jersey Network's awarding winning "State of the Arts." Don't miss a Sneak Preview of their international cast of stars. 100 Grant Ave., Deal Park. 8 p.m. Tickets are $25; $20 for seniors and students. Information, (732) 531-9100 x 142 Tickets also available online at www.axelrodartscenter.com.

Congregation B'nai Israel. Comedy Night with Barry Weintraub and Jessica Kirson. Wine and cheese reception. 40 Whitenack Rd., Basking Ridge. 7:30 p.m. Tickets $36, available in advance at Congregation B'nai Israel or by calling (908) 204-1412.

Sunday, Nov. 2

Hadassah Young Women. La dor VaDor of Raritan Valley. Get a Head Start on your Holiday Shopping. Holiday Boutique. At Ahavas Achim, 216 S 1st Ave., Highland Park. 2:-5 p.m. Vendor tables are $36 each and with advance reservation on a first come first serve basis. Deadline to reserve your table is Oct. 24. Information or to reserve table: Marnie at YWHadassahEvents@yahoo.com or
(732) 816-4712.

YM-YWHA of Union County. Jewish Fair and Expo. A full day of activities and events are planned all relating to the theme of "Jews around the World." Trinitas Comprehensive Health Center will offer screenings. There will be videos, special presentations, entertainment, food, and children's programs. More than 50 vendors are expected; several openings still available. 501 Green Lane, Union. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Information, (908) 289-8112.

Congregation Anshe Emeth. "The Spirit Lives On: Tragedy and Triumph" concert to honor victims of the Nazi terror and the 60th anniversary of Israel. New Brunswick Chamber Orchestra and Anshe Emeth choir will perform music of Jewish composers of the mid-20th century. 222 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick. 4 p.m. Tickets at door. $17. Students/seniors: $15. Information, www.newbrunswickchamberorchestra.org.

Congregation Kehilat Shalom. Adult Education Jewish LIFE series: "Leading Shabbat Services" focuses on the structure and outline of the Friday night service. Includes bagel café. 253 Griggstown-Belle Mead Rd., Belle Mead. 9:30-11 a.m. Members: $18. Non-members: $36. RSVP, (908) 359-0420, robin@ksNJ.org or www.ksNJ.org.

YM-YWHA of Union County. Workman Circle & the Y presents "The Folksbeine Theatre", Mama Loshin's Kugel. 501 Green Ln., Union. 2 p.m. Information, (908) 289-8112.

Temple Beth Am Shalom. Groundbreaking for the new temple on Route 70 and Peco Way. Lakewood Local and state politicians have been invited to share in the ceremonies the new temple, which will be large enough to house an innovative religious school, beautiful sanctuary, large meeting and banquet rooms, as well as a state-of-the-art kitchen for banquets and celebrations. 400 Carey St., Lakewood. 11:30 a.m. Information, (732) 363-2800.

Monday, Nov. 3

The Chabad Jewish Center of Monroe. Annual Concert. Featuring exciting musical entertainer Hal Jeffrin, and comedian Van Harris. Monroe High School Auditorium. 7 p.m. Tickets: $25; Sponsor -- $180. Patrons: $500. Information, Call Doris Tabor at (609) 655-0622 for tickets.

YM-YWHA of Union County. Girl's Ballet (8 week sessions). Ages 4-8.
501 Green Ln., UNion. 5:30 p.m. $80. $60 members. Mention coupon #1006 and receive $10 discount. Information, (908) 289-8112.

The Highland Park Conservative Temple-Congregation Anshe Emeth. Louis Rockoff Lecture with Rabbi Yakov Hilsenrath. There is no charge for admission. South Third Ave., Highland Park. 8 p.m. Information, call the Temple office, (732) 545-6482.

YM-YWHA of Union County. Beginner's Hebrew Class. 8 weeks. 501 Green Ln., Union. $60 and $40-members 7p.m. begins Nov. 3 and takes place Mon. nights. Information, (908) 289-8112.

Wednesday, Nov. 5

The JCC of Central NJ. The Jewish Film Festival of Central New Jersey. Homeland. The evening screening will include a special appearance by the film's writer/producer, Brad Rothschild, who grew up in Plainfield and graduated from Solomon Schechter Day School of Essex and Union. Rialto Theater, 250 East Broad St., Westfield. 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The advance purchase cost for JCC members, seniors (age 65 and up), students and members of sponsoring organizations is $10 for individual tickets and $38 for a series subscription that includes one ticket for each film. The cost for all others is $12 for individual tickets and $46 for a series subscription. At the door, the cost is $15 per ticket for everyone. Purchase tickets in person at the JCC Member Services Deskor online at www.jccnj.org. Information, Call Sandra Kenoff or Michele Dreiblatt, (908) 889-8800, ext. 221 and 205.

Chabad Jewish Center of Union County. "The Kabbalah of Mind Yoga" with Rabbi Dr. Laibl Wolf. 193 South Ave., Fanwood. 7:30 p.m. Admission for the lecture is $25. There is an early bird special of $18 for advanced paid reservations. A sponsorship of $180 includes 2 tickets and an audience with the master Kabbalist. Information, contact Rabbi Avrohom Blesofsky at (908) 790-0008, or e-mail rabbi@chabaduc.com.

YM-YWHA of Union County. Caring Hands. A free program for Caregivers, sponsor: Trinitas Cancer Center. Join our Art Therapist for an interactive art therapy program. Ever "caregiver" welcome. 501 Green Ln., Union. 7-8 p.m. Information, (908) 289-8112.

Sunday, Nov. 9

YM-YWHA of Union County. Special Series. "The Evolving Role of the Jew in American Film." Rabbi Avram Kivelevitz. 501 Green Ln., Union. 7:30 p.m. $3, free to Y members. Information, (908) 289-8112.

The Henry Ricklis Holocaust Memorial Committee. A program observing the 70th anniversary of Kristallnacht. Two survivors, Esther Clifford and Bill Schwrimmer will speak. A short film and discussion will follow. Monroe Township High School Auditorium, Monroe. 1 p.m. Information, Jay Brown (732) 251-6498.

Monday, Nov. 10

Jewish Historical Society of Central NJ. American Jewish Experience Lecture Series. Lecture by Barbara Kuntz entitled "The Jewish Farmers of Southern New Jersey." Monroe Township Jewish Center, 11 Cornell Dr., Monroe. 10 a.m. Information, (732) 249- 4894.

The Highland Park Conservative Temple-Congregation Anshe Emeth. announces a series of classes by Rabbi Eliot Malomet highlighting classic texts entitled "And You Shall Place These Words Upon Your Heart." Join the class for five consecutive sessions Monday evenings. Class dates are Nov. 10, 17, 24 and Dec. 1, 8. South Third Ave., Highland Park. 8 p.m.
No fee for members and $10 per semester for non-members. Information, call the office at (732) 545-6482.

Tuesday, Nov. 11

Solomon Schechter Day School of Raritan Valley. Open House. 511 Ryders Ln., East Brunswick. 2:30 p.m. RSVP to Ruth Bash at (732) 238-7971 or
bashr@ssdsrv.org.

The Highland Park Conservative Temple-Congregation Anshe Emeth. CAE Legacy Endowment Series with Rabbi Marvin Tokayer entitled "Pepper, Silk and Ivory: The Exotic Jews of China, Japan and India." Admission is free. South Third Ave., Highland Park. 8 p.m. Information, call the office at (732) 545-6482.

YM-YWHA of Union County. T'am Israeli-a special Israeli cooking class. Recipe: "Passatalim" 501 Green Ln., Union. 7 p.m. $5. Information, (908) 289-8112.

Makhelat Hamercaz Jewish Choir of Central NJ. To perform at Hadassah Annual Dinner at Canal Walk in Somerset. The program will feature pieces from the choir's repertoire celebrating the Psalms, including traditional and contemporary interpretations of Halleluyah, and compositions by Stephen Glass, David Berger, and Sol Zim. 112 Schoolhouse Rd., Somerset. 7:45 p.m. Information, call (732) 548-2238, Ext. 14 or log onto
http://mercazchoir.org.     

YM-YWHA of Union County. Ladies Spa Night. $15 includes light buffet dinner. Sauna, Steam, Exercise, beauty services (Nominal fee), Skin care lecture by leading Specialist ... all included! Reservations necessary. 6-9 p.m. 501 Green Ln., Union. Information, (908) 289-8112.

Wednesday, Nov. 12

Jewish Life. Rabbi Ron Isaacs. Talking to God: The Art of Prayer. It will explore a methodology for using the words of a prayerbook in a way that will be relevant and work in one's own life. Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center, 775 Talamini Rd., Bridgewater. 1 p.m. $10-member and $15 –non-member. To register, (908) 725-6994 x201.

Beth El Synagogue of East Windsor and the Village Grande Hadassah of West Windsor. The commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of Kristallnacht. Guest speaker Harry Fuld will present ‘His Story.' Refreshments will be provided. 50 Maple Stream Rd., East Windsor. 7 p.m. Information, contact the synagogue office, (609) 443-4454.

The JCC of Central NJ. The Jewish Film Festival of Central New Jersey. Love and Dance. Russian and Israeli cultures clash in this Israeli film about Chen, the young son of a Russian/Israeli mixed marriage. Rialto Theater, 250 East Broad St., Westfield. 7:30 p.m. The advance purchase cost for JCC members, seniors (age 65 and up), students and members of sponsoring organizations is $10 for individual tickets and $38 for a series subscription that includes one ticket for each film. The cost for all others is $12 for individual tickets and $46 for a series subscription. At the door, the cost is $15 per ticket for everyone. Purchase tickets in person at the JCC Member Services Deskor online at www.jccnj.org. Information, Call Sandra Kenoff or Michele Dreiblatt, (908) 889-8800, ext. 221 and 205.

Thursday, Nov. 13

Lakewood Historical Society. Honoring Sheldon Wolpin. The View at Eagle Ridge, Lakewood. Information,
(732) 276-7944 or (732) 364-3263.

Temple Beth El. Mom's Night Out: Reception and cabaret-style show. Enjoy a wine and cheese reception and see, direct from Manhattan, "Mom's the Word", a hilarious cabaret-style review about the challenges of motherhood. 67 Rte. 206, Hillsborough. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $30 in advance, $40 at the door. VIP sitting available for Sponsors ($100 or more). Reservations must be received by Tuesday, Nov. 11. Checks payable to: Temple Beth-El. Attention Simona, 67 US Highway 206, Hillsborough, NJ 08844. Info, Simona at bakerec@comcast.net or (908) 369-7884.

Monroe Township Chapter of Hadassah. Trip to Philadelphia. A guided tour of the National Museum of American Jewish History and Congregation Mikveeh Israel followed by a kosher Chinese lunch and a visit to the National Constitution center. Departure from Congregation of Concordia parking lot, Monroe. 9 a.m. Make reservations early space is limited. Information, Hilma, (609) 409-0708.

Toms River Hadassah. Trip to Jewish Museum. Chagall exhibit. NYC 5th Ave./92nd St. Bus leaves from Congregation B'nai Israel, 1488 Old Freehold Rd., Toms River. 9:15 a.m. and returning at 7 p.m. Transportation and Admission: $47. Contact Doralee (732) 341-3869.

The Young Women's Chapter of Hadassah. Boutique shopping night. There are still several tables available for vendors, crafters, and businesses interested in selling items at this event, which is open to the public. Registered tables currently include vendors of high-quality handbags, jewelry, children's items, baby items, toys, health products, cosmetics, stationery, picture frames, Judaica, personalized giftware and much more. Congregation Sons of Israel, Gordons Corner Rd., Manalapan. 7:30-10 p.m. A donation of $5 at the door includes raffle tickets and light refreshments.Information or to reserve a table, please call Gina at (848) 459-6150.

Saturday, Nov. 15

Congregation Kehilat Shalom. "Watermarks" film with speaker, Greta Wertheimer, a subject of the film about successful Jewish sports teams in Austria in the 1930s leading up to Kristallnacht. 253 Griggstown-Belle Mead Rd., Belle Mead. 6 p.m. Adults: $10. Children 13 and under: $5. RSVP (908) 359-0420, robin@ksNJ.org or www.ksNJ.org.

Temple Sha'arey Shalom. "A Night of Comedy" with Larry DeFelice, Dennis Ross and Chip Ambrogio. Refreshments, soda, wine, door prizes and a 50/50 raffle. 78 South Springfield Ave., Springfield. 8 p.m. $25 per person. RSVP and payment must be received by Nov. 1. To RSVP and arrange payment, (973) 379-5387.

Sunday, Nov. 16

The Jewish Community Center Princeton Mercer Bucks. Concert with Joshua Nelson. Adath Israel Congregation in Lawrenceville. 7:15 pm. Tickets are $36per person or $72 to be a friend of the JCC (includes ticket and signed CD). Information and tickets call the JCC at (609) 219-9550 or email
programs@jcctoday.org.

Shimon and Sara Birnbaum JCC Jewish LIFE. "Jewish Food in America" with Arthur Schwartz. Includes brunch, lecture, and book signing. 775 Talamini Rd., Bridgewater. 10:30 a.m. Brunch and book: $39 ($36 members). Brunch only: $21 ($18 members). Book only: $25. Information, Debbie Golden (908) 725-6994 x210.

YM-YWHA of Union County. Special Series..."The Evolving Role of the Jew in American Film." Rabbi Avram Kivelevitz. 501 Green Ln., Union. 7:30 p.m.. $3, free to Y members. Information, (908) 289-8112.

Monday, Nov. 17

Sisterhood of Neve Shalom. Membership appreciation dinner. Entertainment by Gemini. 250 Grove Ave., Metuchen. 6:30 p.m. Cost: Paid-up Sisterhood membership ($36). RSVP by Nov. 11 to Barbara (732) 321-0670 or barbmcs@aol.com.

Tuesday, Nov. 18

Toms River Hadassah. L.A. Convention Highlights brought to you on DVD. Congregation B'nai Israel, 1488 Old Freehold Rd., Toms River. 1 p.m. Information, Yvette (732) 255-7386.

The Highland Park Conservative Temple-Congregation Anshe Emeth. Professor Maurice Elias of Rutgers University who will present a talk on "Striking the Right Balance: How Jewishly-Informed Parenting and Grandparenting Improves Kids' Chances for Success in School and Life." South Third Ave., Highland Park. 8 p.m. $5-members, $7- non-members. Information, call (732) 545-6482.

Temple Beth El of Somerset. Temple's Annual Michael D. Fink Memorial Lecture "Super Jew in the Secular World"  with radio personality Judi Franco. 1489 Hamilton St., Someset. 7:30 p.m. The lecture and refreshments are free, thanks to a generous donation from temple members Lori and Bob Fink in memory of their son, Dr. Michael D. Fink. Elaine Wasserman (732) 873-2325.

Wednesday, Nov. 19

Jewish Historical Society of Central NJ. American Jewish Experience Lecture Series. Cantor Anna West Ott will present a program of American Jewish music. She will be accompanied on the piano during her program by Dave Schlossberg. Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple, 222 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick. 10:30 a.m. Information, (732) 249- 4894.

The JCC of Central NJ. The Jewish Film Festival of Central New Jersey. The Counterfeiters. This Austrian film tells the true story of Jewish prisoners forced to counterfeit money for the Nazis. The evening showing will also feature guest speaker Carol A. Simon, Executive Board Member, Project Manager and Finance Director of the Holocaust Council of Metro West, NJ. Rialto Theater, 250 East Broad St., Westfield. 7:30 p.m. 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Purchase tickets in person at the JCC Member Services Deskor online at www.jccnj.org. Information, Call Sandra Kenoff or Michele Dreiblatt, (908) 889-8800, ext. 221 and 205.

Friday, Nov. 21

Congregation Neve Shalom. Adult Education Friday Night Speaker Series. Alicia Ostriker, Professor Emerita, Rutghers University, will discuss: "The Bible as an open book: Reflections on Jonah." Refreshments and a question and answer period to follow. 250 Grove Ave., Metuchen. 8 p.m. Information, Hazzan Levin (732) 548-2238 ext. 14.

Saturday, Nov. 22

Temple B'nai Shalom. Sweetness of Giving Gala honoring Michael and Marlene Nissenblatt. Excelsior Caterers, 355 Route 9 South, Manalapan. Silent auction preview: 7:30 p.m. Dinner: 8 p.m. $180/per person. Information, Randy Schafer, Temple B'nai Shalom, (732) 822-3341, gala@bnaishalom.com or randyschafer@comcast.net.

Sunday, Nov. 23

The YM-YWHA of Union. Moshe Schreiber, "The origins and distinction of the differing Branches of Judaism. Can we learn to live together." 501 Green Ln., Union. 11 a.m. Information, (908) 289-8112.

YM-YWHA of Union County. Jewish Fair and Expo. Free Child Ident-i-kits, Health Screenings, Vendors for Holiday shopping, Kosher food, Klezmer Music, clown, Speakers...."Jews around the World", Videos. No admission fees, everything free except for your food and shopping. 501 Green Ln. Union. 10 a.m-5 p.m. Information, (908) 289-8112.

Temple Beth El of the Shore. Pre-Thanksgiving Concert. Vocolot, an a cappella group of four infinitely talented women will perform. 301 Monmouth Rd., Oakhurst. 7 p.m. Tickets $10.Information, call Hazzan Marcia Lane, (732) 531-0300.

The Shalom Center, The Workmen's Circle/Arbeter Ring. Jews uniting to end the war and heal America. Jewish activists, community leaders, rabbis, policymakers, veterans, scholars and social justice advocates will take part in strategic discussions on the war in Iraq and its impact on domestic issues and plan for action targeting the incoming administration and Congress to address these concerns. Central Synagogue, 123 East 55th St., New York, between Park and Lexington Aves. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Open to the public. Regular registration is on a sliding scale from $36-72, low-income registration is $18. Includes breakfast and boxed lunch. To register, www.circle.org/jewsuniting, jewsunitingtoendthewar@circle.org or (212) 889-6800 ext. 274.

Sunday, Dec. 7

Jewish Family and Children's service of Greater Mercer County. A community program stressed out or stress hardly kids: raising our children to be resilient. Robert Brooks, Ph.D., co-author of Raising Resilient Children, will present to parents of children ages 0-12 years. Brooks will describe factors that help children to deal more effectively with stress and pressure and become resilient. Some highlights of his presentation include: why some children from birth have a more difficult time developing a positive self-image and resilience than other children and specific strategies for nurturing self-dignity, self-discipline, cooperation, caring, hope and resilience in children. Congregation Beth Chaim, 329 Village Rd., East, Princeton Junction. 4-6 p.m. Information Debra Levenstein, (609) 987-8100

Monday, Dec. 8

Jewish Family and Children's service of Greater Mercer County. A professional workshop, The Power of Mindsets: Nurturing Motivation and Resilience in Challenging Children. Dr. Brooks will outline a strength-based approach for working with angry, challenging children and adolescents. The approach can be applied in therapy, residential programs, schools, and homes. The workshop is geared for parents, educators, mental health professionals, as well as other professionals who work with these challenging youngsters. The New Jersey Hospital Association Conference Center, 760 Alexander Rd., Princeton. 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Information, Debra Levenstein (609) 987-8100

Tuesday, Dec. 16

Monroe Township Chapter of Hadassah. Annual Gala Hanukkah sit down dairy lunch and card party. Empire Diner, Rte. 9, Freehold. 11:30 a.m. $17 per person. Information, (609) 860-1609.

Toms River Hadassah. Cantor Walvick presents a musical celebration of Hanukkah. Congregation B'nai Israel, 1488 Old Freehold Rd., Toms River. 1 p.m. Information, Yvette (732) 255-7386.