לשנה טובה ּתכתבו - The Fair Lawn Jewish Center / Congregation B

NEWS & VIEWS
‫ח ד ׁש ֹו ת ו ה ׁש ק פ ֹו ת‬
VOLUME LXIX , NO. 1
FAIR LAWN JEWISH CENTER / CONG. BNAI ISRAEL
ELUL 5774 — TISHREI 5775
USPS #096-220
SEPTEMBER 2014
‫ ּתשרי ּתשע"ה‬- ‫אלּול ּתשע"ד‬
Rabbi Ronald Roth, Cantor Eric Wasser,
Synagogue Administrator Claudia Judelman,
Your Officers and Board of Directors
Wish You a Happy, Healthy and Sweet
New Year 5775.
‫לשנה טובה ּתכתבו‬
FAIR LAWN JEWISH CENTER
CONGREGATION BNAI ISRAEL
10-10 Norma Ave.
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
201.796.5040
[email protected]
Howard & Joshua Herman Education Center
201.796.7884
[email protected]
Shirley & Paul Pintel Preschool
201.796.9434
[email protected]
Rabbi
Ronald Roth
Rabbi Emeritus
Simon Glustrom
Cantor
Eric L. Wasser
Cantor Emeritus
Max Rubin
Synagogue Administrator Claudia Judelman
Religious School Principal
Judy Gutin
Early Childhood Director
Carol Weber
President
Jerry Weiner
Executive Vice President
Ellen Wertheim
Vice President
Michael Baer
Vice President
Craig Mont
Treasurer
Jeff Zerowin
Secretary
Jen Mendelsohn
Honorary Presidents
*Nat Sprechman
*Marge Bornstein
*Julian Bornstein
Irving Sklaver
* Deceased
Sisterhood President
M.P.C President
Caterer
Advertising
Editor
Leslie Frucht
Seth Seigel -Laddy
Main Event
Carol Peligal
Norma F. Pollack
News & Views (USPS #096-220) is published ten
times a year. $1.00 of annual membership dues is
for yearly subscription to News & Views. The Fair
Lawn Jewish Center - Cong. Bnai Israel, 10-10
Norma Avenue, Fair Lawn, NJ 07410 publishes
News & Views. Periodicals postage paid at
Paramus, NJ. Postmaster: Send address changes
to News & Views, 10-10 Norma, Fair lawn, NJ
07410
FROM THE EDITOR
A new year, new hopes, new dreams, new opportunities.
May it be for you and yours a happy, fulfilling, and
sweet year, filled with all the inspirational, educational, and fun activities to be found here at the Center.
And may it be a year of peace for us and for Israel!
Norma F. Pollack
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Adult Education
Back to Shul BBQ
Bar Mitzvah
Book of the Lunch
Café Europa
Calendar
Candle lighting
Cantorial Contemplation
Deaths
Donations
Families w/Yng. Children
Family Matters
Funds
Golf Outing
High Holy Days
High Holidays Services
Lulav & Etrog
15
20
30
23
16
35
2
6
2
34
33
29
33
27
9
3
19
Men’s Progress Club
Month — Tishrei
Nosh & Knowledge
On the Shelf
Preschool
Presidential Pondering
Rabbinic Reflections
Religious Affairs Comm.
Religious School
Scholar in Residence
19
14
14
23
32
7
5
12
31
25
Simchat Torah
19
Sisterhood
21
Social Action Committee 17
Sukkot Luncheon
13
Synagogue Administrator 8
Torah Fund Pins
21
COMING UP THIS MONTH . . .
September 1 - Oct. 3 Social Action Food Drive Begins
September 7 Religious School Begins
September 9 Café Europa
September 9 Nosh & Knowledge
September 14 Back To Shul BBQ
September 16 Nosh & Knowledge
September 17 Board of Directors’ Meeting
RELIGIOUS SERVICES
September 20 S’lichot
September 21 Sisterhood Bk. Club: People of the Book
The Fair Lawn Jewish Center - Cong. Bnai Israel
holds morning and evening services every day .
September 21 MPC College Planning
DAILY
September 24 Erev Rosh HaShanah
Sunday
9:00 AM & 7:30 PM September 25 First Day of Rosh HaShanah
Monday - Thursday
8:00 AM & 7:30 PM September 25 Tashlich
Friday
8:00 AM
September 26 Second Day of Rosh Hashanah
SHABBAT
Friday evening
6:30 PM September 27 Shabbat Shuvah
Shabbat morning Chapel 9:00, Sanctuary 9:30 AM September 28 Fast of Gedaliah
Junior Congregation
10:30 AM
Tot Shabbat
10:30 AM
Shabbat Mincha After Morning Service & Kiddush
There is no evening Maariv service on Shabbat
‫ נחמּו עמי‬,‫נחמּו‬
We note with sorrow the passing of
CANDLELIGHTING
September 5
September 12
September 19
September 24
September 25
September 26
2
7:05 PM
6:53 PM
6:42 PM
6:34 PM
7:32 PM
6:30 PM
Dr. Gerhard Lang
Gertrude Sokol, mother of Robert Sokol
Everett Strasser
May the Lord console and sustain you,
together with all the mourners for Zion and Jerusalem.
HIGH HOLY DAYS 5775
S‘LICHOT
Saturday, September 20
Musical Program, Followed By Refreshments
S’lichot Service
8:30 PM
10:00 PM
EREV ROSH HASHANAH
Wednesday, September 24
Mincha/Maariv (services end approximately 7:20 PM)
Candle Lighting
6:30 PM
6:34 PM
ROSH HASHANAH - FIRST DAY
Thursday, September 25
Shacharit
Children's Service & Junior Congregation
Teen Discussion Group (after the sermon)
Services End
8:00 AM
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
approximately 11:30 AM
approximately 1:30 PM
Tashlich, snacks & socializing in the field behind Memorial
Mincha/Maariv
Candle Lighting
ROSH HASHANAH - SECOND DAY
Friday, September 26
Shacharit
Parents & Children to 6 yrs. / Children's Service & Jr Cong.
Teen Discussion Group (after the sermon)
Services End
4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
6:30 PM
7:32 PM
8:00 AM
10:00 A.M. / 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
approximately 11:30 PM
approximately 1:15 PM
SHABBAT SHUVAH
Friday, September 26
Mincha/Maariv
Candle Lighting
6:30 PM
6:30 PM
Saturday, September 27
Shacharit
Shabbat Ends
Chapel 8:45 AM, Sanctuary 9:30 AM
7:30 PM
KOL NIDREI
Friday, October 3
Candle Lighting
Mincha
Kol Nidrei
Services End
6:18 PM
6:15 PM
6:35 PM
approximately 9:00 PM
YOM KIPPUR DAY
Saturday, October 4
Shacharit
Children's Service & Junior Congregation
Teen Discussion Group
Mincha
Congregant's Talk
Neilah
Maariv
Sounding of the Shofar
9:00 AM
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
12:30 PM
4:15 PM
5:30 PM
6:00 PM
7:15 PM
7:30 PM
3
EREV SUKKOT
Wednesday, October 8
Mincha/Maariv
Candle Lighting
6:30 PM
6:10 PM
SUKKOT - FIRST DAY
Thursday October 9
Shacharit
Luncheon in the Sukkah (by prior reservation)
Mincha/Maariv For 2nd Day
Candle Lighting For 2nd Day
Chapel 9:00 AM, Sanctuary 9:30 AM
Following Services
6:30 PM
7:30 PM
SUKKOT - SECOND DAY
Friday, October 10
Shacharit
Chapel 9:00 AM, Sanctuary 9:30 AM
EREV SHABBAT, CHOL HA'MOED SUKKOT
Friday, October 10
Mincha/Maariv
Candle Lighting
6:30 PM
6:07 PM
SHABBAT, CHOL HA'MOED SUKKOT
Saturday, October 11
Shacharit
Chapel 9:00 AM, Sanctuary 9:30 AM
WEEKDAY SERVICE, CHOL HA'MOED
Shacharit
Sunday, October 12
Monday, Oct. 13, Tuesday, Oct. 14, Wednesday, Oct. 15
Mincha/Maariv
Sunday, Oct. 12, Monday, Oct. 13, Tuesday, Oct. 14
9:00 AM
8:00 AM
7:30 PM
EREV SH'MINI ATZERET
Wednesday, October 15
Mincha/Maariv
Candle Lighting
6:30 PM
5:59 PM
SH'MINI ATZERET
Thursday, October 16
Shacharit - Yizkor (One Service in the Sanctuary)
9:00 AM
EREV SIMCHAT TORAH
Thursday, October 16
Mincha/Maariv - Torah Processions
Candle Lighting
7:15 PM
6:58 PM
SIMCHAT TORAH
Friday, October 17
Shacharit - Torah Processions (One Service in the Sanctuary)
Simchat Torah for Little Ones
4
9:00 AM
10:00 AM
RABBINIC REFLECTIONS . . . Rabbi Ron Roth
A year has almost gone by since last Rosh Hashanah. As I begin to compose my sermons for this year
I like to ask myself, “Did I really listen to what I said
last year? Did I change?” What follows is a brief
version of the first part of one of my sermons from
last Rosh Hashanah.
Here is a question from one of the great scholars of
our tradition, Maimonides. Imagine that you had
$1,000. I admit that he said dinarim. Don’t ask me
for the exchange rate. Accept that it is a considerable amount of money. You want to give that sum
directly to help needy people. Would you give it to a
single family to cover their grocery bills for five
weeks, or would you give $1 each to 1,000 people?
What would you do?
My guess is that most of you would give it to one person. It is not just an abstract question. Do you receive many fund appeals in the mail, and even more
at this time of year? Do you pass by the pushke in
the chapel of this synagogue when you come to minyan? Do you respond to all appeals by giving a little
to each?
Maimonides’ question is not purely abstract, and your
answer might help you to develop a spiritual plan for
the coming year. Rosh Hashanah provides an occasion for clarifying our spiritual goals and inspiring
concrete commitments for the coming year.
Let me tell you my answer. I would choose to give
the money to one family, or maybe divide it among a
small number of families, even though that was not
an option. I want to have an impact and help people
meaningfully. Giving everyone a dollar does not
change anyone’s situation. Temporarily relieving the
distress of a family uncertain about how to put food
on the table seems both useful and satisfying.
Rhonda and I receive a large number of charitable
solicitations. We choose to be generous to a small
percent of them. The Fair Lawn Jewish Center / Congregation Bnai Israel receives the largest share of
our tzedakah, with another large donation to the Jewish Federation of North New Jersey. Of course we
respond to the Women’s League Torah Fund appeal
immediately!!
We choose to give to Hadassah, JNF, United Synagogue, and Project Ezra, a program that helps poor
elderly Jews on the Lower East Side.
In general we prefer to give a few major gifts and
some smaller ones. We do not give to many of the
organizations that send us appeals because there
are simply too many of them, even though I know
they are worthy causes. We want our donations to
have an impact.
Let me return to Maimonides. In commenting on a
Mishnah (Avot 3:18), Maimonides argues that it is
best to give one dinar to 1,000 people rather than
make one grand gift. As I have just said, I do not
give in that pattern. So, not only do I disagree with a
teaching of Maimonides, but I have acted for years in
a manner that is contrary to his position. What is his
reasoning?
Maimonides holds that, while the grand gift may be
effective in alleviating one person’s need in a significant way, it will not transform the personality of the
giver. He contends that the habit developed by 1,000
small, repeated gifts will transform the giver into a
more generous and kinder person. That is an example of teshuvah, or repentance, becoming a better
person, that we seek at this time of year.
Maimonides teaches us that the purpose of Jewish
tzedakah law extends beyond alleviating suffering.
We give not only to improve the lives of others and to
bring about a more just society, but also to improve
our own character. Becoming habituated to giving
makes us generous people and refines our souls.
So, did I listen to my words last year? Did you?
Once again I need to think of ways I can solidify lifegiving habits to improve myself. We are granted
each year a new opportunity to create a better self.
Maybe this year I will try to listen more attentively to
what I have to say, and act more immediately on it.
Some of our other donations go to the Jewish National Fund, MOMA, and the Metropolitan Museum. I am
a Friend of the NY Philharmonic. I listen to WQXR
and donate to them.
5
CANTORIAL CONTEMPLATION . . . Cantor Eric Wasser, Ed.D.
Dear Friends,
I hope you all had a relaxing and leisurely summer,
enjoying time with friends and family.
At this time of year, we are all, of course, busily preparing for the High Holy Days. For me, as the Hazzan, it is an exciting time of year due to two specific
projects.
Firstly, over the summer I assign Torah readings for
the upcoming holy day season. The portions on Rosh
Hashanah depict the story of the binding of Isaac,
while the sections on Yom Kippur are taken from Leviticus, and represent an introduction into the holiness code. Each of these portions is chanted with a
special melody exclusively employed on the Yamim
Noaraim.
We are blessed to have a huge cadre of people prepared to take on this challenge. This year we will
hear twenty different individuals who will work diligently to share their musical skills and Hebrew talents so as to beautify our services. Collectively, we
should all be proud of this great accomplishment, and
take great “naches” in the chanting which will take
place.
Secondly, a couple of months ago I began working
with our volunteer adult choir. While I am aware that
some people are stronger advocates than others of
choral singing (often as a result of your own synagogue biography), let me assure you that the choir
adds an important element to our liturgy.
The choir, in our tradition, is foremost seen as an
extension of the Hazzan and the Shaliach Tzibbur.
In contrast to a performance, the choral singers are
there to help lead us in prayer. Through melody and
harmony (hopefully never dissonance!) the participants are there to help enrich the sounds of the synagogue in an uplifting spiritual fashion.
Our melodies, with very few exceptions, are selected
to encourage congregational participation. This year
the choir will introduce a beautiful B’nei Veitcha,
Areshet Sfateinu and Ki Lekach Tov. As you catch
on to the tunes, we invite and encourage your participation. I am very appreciative of the time and talents
of so many of our people, who make this colossal
undertaking a highlight of the liturgical cycle.
6
Finally, as you know, this past six months was a particularly difficult period in my life. I was challenged
on both a physical and emotional level like never before. In particular, I was blessed to have been able
to be part of a successful organ donation to a dear
friend and past president of the congregation.
While the recovery was physically taxing, I was
strengthened by the knowledge that Harvey continues to feel well and has, in many ways, a new lease
on life. I anxiously await seeing him and his family
occupying their regular seats just a few rows in front
of the Cantor’s podium this upcoming Yuntif.
On an unhappier note, I am not sure that I will ever
fully recover from our family tragedy. Struggling with
the ups and downs of loss is never easy, regardless
of the circumstances, and the conversations that my
brother and I would share in the weeks leading up to
the holidays, I know, will never be replaced. I hope,
in part, to honor his memory through my work in
building and sustaining this Kehillat HaKodesh
(sacred community).
May the year ahead be filled only with blessings,
health, happiness, fulfillment and prosperity for you,
your family, all you hold dear, and the entire House of
Israel.
Shanah Tova Umetukah
Cantor Dr. Eric L Wasser
PRESIDENTIAL PONDERING . . . Jerry Weiner
Unbelievable! Where has the summer gone? As I
write, it is the first week of August and Norma insists
that our September articles be submitted this week.
College students are preparing to leave for school.
Our Hebrew School teachers and Preschool teachers
are meeting with their directors, Judy and Carol, and
planning for the upcoming school year, and Rosh
Hashanah is around the corner.
Summer is the time for relaxing, but for us it was the
time for planning and organizing for the upcoming
new year. Synagogue committees, as well as our
Men’s Progress Club and Sisterhood, have been
busy at work planning activities and programs to
meet the needs and interests of our membership.
I am still seeking individuals to chair, co-chair or
serve on committees. Please call me or email me as
to your interests. I invite you to volunteer, and not
wait to receive a call from me.
I extend a special thank you to Ritch Rosen and our
Capital Campaign Committee, and to Alex Shinkar of
the Renovation Committee and their committee
members, for all their hard work thus far. It is not
the easiest of tasks to raise money; it is much easier
to spend it. Alex is responsible for the renovation of
our Preschool classrooms and second floor hallway.
I urge you to consider and make a meaningful contribution to our Capital Campaign, and to join the many
who have already done so. With your help, we can
and will soon reach our goal, make our building more
usable to those of us with physical challenges, and
allow us to make our second floor more welcoming to
our students.
It is with great pleasure that I, on behalf of our Congregation, welcome to our FLJC/CBI family Claudia
Judelman, our new Synagogue Administrator, who
began work on August 11. I hope many of you have
had the opportunity to meet Claudia, and if not, will
do so very soon.
Claudia brings many years of experience, ability, creativity and vitality to us. She is friendly and warm. I
hope that her association with us will be a long, happy and productive one.
Sadly , I say Yasher Koach and thank Irv Pollack for
his many years of dedicated service as our treasurer.
Irv will continue to serve on our Executive Committee
and Board of Directors.
I welcome Jeff Zerowin as our new treasurer, and
look forward to his concise reports. I welcome our
new Board of Directors members, Sima Alper and
Harold Fine. Thank you for joining our leadership
team.
Thank you to Neil Garfinkle, Lawrence Hess, Barry
Schwartz, Shari Toron, David Tratner and Arthur
Wartenberg for serving on the Board of Directors,
and have decided to “retire” from the Board. We will
also miss Linda Ayes and Holly Levy, Past Presidents, from the Executive Committee and Board of
Directors. My very best to each of you. I know we
can still count on your assistance and advice.
I urge more of you, my friends, to become involved.
Please work with Rabbi Roth, Cantor Wasser and
our committees on programs to interest our members. To be successful, a leader must rely upon a
team of concerned, dedicated and creative members to face the challenges ahead.
Together, we must think more creatively to leverage
our resources to offer more services without additional costs, and to provide meaningful activities and
programs. We must welcome innovation and experimentation, and not be fearful of those challenges.
Membership and Fundraising are of significant importance. Join these committees and share your
ideas with us.
Our Kol Nidre campaign will soon begin. The giving
of tzedakah is at the heart of our Jewish tradition of
obligation and responsibility. Please respond as
generously as you are able to. Our Synagogue continues to face some extraordinary financial challenges. We operate our Preschool, and our budget has
been pared to the bone. Please join me and be
generous when asked to do so.
I invite YOU to join me at MINYAN, either morning
or evening. Our morning minyans are strong. We do
need YOU to help make a MINYAN in the evenings.
I, along with your officers and directors, look forward
to greeting you soon.
Ellie and I wish you and your loved ones a New
Year of good health, joy and contentment.
Jerry
7
WELCOME TO OUR NEW
SYNAGOGUE ADMINISTRATOR,
WHAT’S NU? …
CLAUDIA JUDELMAN
A few words from the Synagogue Administrator
With the New Year, you’ll find a new face in the office
at FLJC/CBI.
On August 11, 2014 I began my work here as the
Synagogue Administrator.
As I’ve begun to get to know many of the members
here, I’m hearing a recurring theme from those I’ve
spoken with. Here’s a few examples:
“It’s home to me!”
“I grew up in this synagogue!”
“I’m connected to so many congregants here!”
“This is a caring community.”
I live in Montebello, NY (Rockland County) with my
husband, Barry, and we have three children. Our
youngest, Abby, is a student at the University of Maryland. Our middle daughter, Miriam, lives in West
Orange with her husband, Marc, and our two beautiful granddaughters! Our son, Yaron, lives in Denver,
CO.
We are active members in our own synagogue, The
Orangetown Jewish Center in Orangeburg, NY, and
have always been members of our JCC. Our three
children attended Jewish Day School, and our family
has always been passionately committed to our Jewish identity and its values.
We all studied in Israel at one time or another, and, in
fact, Barry and I were both students in Jerusalem on
Mt. Scopus, although we didn't meet until much later
in time. I was a founding member of Kibbutz Ketura
(Young Judaea Kibbutz) in 1974, and Barry started
Israel's first rugby team!
My professional experience has included Membership Director in the YM/YWHA of Bergen County and
Membership/Marketing at the JCC of Rockland
County. I have worked with the Office of the Mayor
of Tel-Aviv and other non-profits.
With a strong background in membership and engagement, I hope to quickly get to meet and know
the members here at the Fair Lawn Jewish Center
and continue the work you've done in building this
warm and welcoming community.
8
These few short sentences speak volumes about
FLJC/CBI.
Together with my personal experience as an active
member of my own synagogue, and professional experience working closely with membership engagement, I’m excited to bring my skills here and to work
with the FLJC to continue the great work you’ve done
in building such a warm and welcoming congregation.
I hope you’ll feel free to stop by my office to introduce
yourselves and tell me your own reasons for loving it
here.
Wishing you a Shana Tovah!
B’Shalom,
Claudia
THE HIGH HOLY DAYS SEASON
S’LICHOT
Originally recited only on Yom Kippur, since the Middle Ages the High Holy Days season has been ushered in
by S’lichot on the Saturday night preceding Rosh Hashanah. The penitential service is comprised of many of
the prayers recited on Yom Kippur, in addition to other compositions written especially for the S’lichot service.
Traditionally held at midnight, our S’lichot evening begins at 8:30 PM with a musical program and refreshments,
followed by the S’lichot service at 10:00 PM.
ROSH HASHANAH
Rosh Hashanah, literally “the head of the year,” is observed as the Jewish New Year at the beginning of the
seventh month, Tishrei. It commemorates the anniversary of the creation of the world, which occurred, according to tradition, 5,775 years ago. Although the Torah prescribes observance of Rosh Hashanah for one day, it
is always observed as a two-day Yom Tov, the two days being considered yoma arichta, one long day.
The name Rosh Hashanah does not occur in the Bible. Instead, it is referred to as Yom T’ruah (the Day of the
Blowing of the Shofar), Yom HaZikaron (the Day of Remembrance), and Zichron T’ruah (the memorial of the
blowing of the Shofar). It is also considered Yom HaDin (the Day of Judgment), when all mankind is judged by
the Creator, and the fate of each individual is inscribed in the Book of Life.
Rosh Hashanah inaugurates the Ten Days of Repentance, Aseret Y’me T’shuva, the most solemn season in
the Jewish calendar, for retrospection and introspection.
THE SHOFAR
The most characteristic symbol of Rosh Hashanah is the Shofar.
Mentioned frequently in
the Bible, and throughout the Talmud and later Hebrew literature, the Shofar was used in ancient times to sound
alarms, to assemble armies for attack in war, and to announce plague or famine. The Shofar also announced
important events of a national character, such as the accession of a ruler to the throne, or the proclamation of a
rabbinic edict. It ushered in the Sabbath, festivals and New Moon, and, together with other instruments, was
frequently employed as part of the worship in the Temple at Jerusalem.
The Shofar is associated with two outstanding events in Israel’s past. It recalls the Akedah -- the binding of
Isaac -- and the Giving of the Law at Sinai. In the ‘end of days,’ the coming of the Messiah will be heralded by a
Shofar blast.
Hallel, which is recited when our hearts are joyful because of our Yomim Tovim, is not recited on Rosh Hashanah because of our anxiety about the judgment we are to receive.
ROSH HASHANAH AT HOME
Rosh Hashanah is both a solemn and festive occasion. Although the observance of the High Holy Days is centered primarily in the synagogue, the home is where the family prepares for the New Year in a spirit of faith, and
in a mood conducive to prayer and soul searching.
The table is set with a white cloth and a centerpiece of flowers – symbolic of purity and joy. Candlesticks, wine
and challahs symbolize a full, round year, and a dish of honey and sliced apples asks for a sweet year. It is
customary not to eat nuts on Rosh Hashanah, since the numerical value of the Hebrew for nut (egoz) is the
same as that of sin (chet).
9
The family gathers for the lighting of the candles and the Kiddush which precedes the festive meal on both nights
of Rosh Hashanah. The following blessings are recited over the candles.
‫שּבַת ו) יֹום טוב‬
ַ ( ‫ ַאשֶר קִּדשָנּו ּבמְצֹותָ יו ו ִצּוָנּו להַדלִק נֵר שֶל‬,‫ּברּוך אַּתָ ה ד" ֵא ֽלהֵינו ֶמלֶּך הָעֹולָם‬
Baruch Atah Adonai, Elohaynu, Melech ha’olam, asher kid’shanu b’mitzvotav, v’tzivanu lehadlik ner shel
(Shabbat v’) Yom Tov.
Blessed are You, Lord our G-d, Ruler of the Universe, who has sanctified us by Your commandments,
and commanded us to kindle the lights of (the Sabbath and) the Holiday.
.‫ש ֶה ֶחי ָנּו ו ִקימָנּו ו ִהגִיעָנּו לַּזמַן ַהזֶה‬
ֶ ,‫ּברּוך אַּתָ ה ד" ֵא ֽלהֵינּו ֶמלֶּך הָעֹולָם‬
Baruch Atah Adonai, Elohaynu, Melech ha’olam, sheh-hecheyanu, vekiyemanu, vehigiyanu laz’man hazeh.
Blessed are You, Lord our G-d, Ruler of the Universe, who has kept us in life, preserved us,
and enabled us to reach this season.
After Kiddush, HaMotzi is recited over the challahs. Then everyone dips apple in honey, and recites:
.‫שנָה טֹובָה ומּתּוקָה‬
ָ ‫יהי ִ ַרצֹון מִל ָפנֶיָך ד" אֵלהֵינּו ואֵלהֵי ַאבֹותֵ ינּו שּתחַדֵ ש עַלינּו‬
Yehi ratzon mil’fanecha, Adonai Elohaynu v’Elohay avotaynu, sheh-techadesh alaynu shanah tova u’metukah.
May it be your will, Lord our G-d, to renew unto us a good and a sweet year.
On the second night of Rosh Hashanah it is customary to introduce a new fruit, so that, in addition to the blessing
over the fruit, Shehecheyanu may also be recited.
TASHLICH
Tashlich, which means “cast away,” originated with the ancient Jews of Babylonia, who superstitiously believed
their sins clung to their clothing as evil spirits. On Rosh Hashanah they went to a river, turned their
pockets inside out, and shook their hems out over the water. This superstitious practice was banned
by the rabbis, but the people would not give it up, so the rabbis told the people to put bread crumbs
in their pockets, and to regard the bread crumbs as symbols of their sins. Today we still ceremonially discard our sins into flowing water on the afternoon of the first day of Rosh Hashanah. When the
first day of Rosh Hashanah is Shabbat, we recite Tashlich on the afternoon of the second day. At
Tashlich men turn their pockets inside out, women shake the hems of their skirts, and bread crumbs are tossed
into the water to represent our sins.
The Rosh Hashanah greeting, in its brief form, is “L‘shanah tovah tikatevu” – “May you be inscribed for a good
year.” Between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur we say “G’mar hatimah tovah” - “May you be sealed for a good
year.”
TSOM GEDALIAH
Gedaliah ben Ahikam was appointed Governor of Judea by Nebuchadnezzar when the first Temple was destroyed by the Babylonians in the sixth century BCE. His assassination brought to an end the First Jewish Commonwealth. The anniversary of Gedaliah’s assassination, 3 Tishrei (the day after Rosh Hashanah) is a fast day
known as Tsom Gedaliah, the Fast of Gedaliah. In years when 3 Tishrei falls on Shabbat, Tsom Gedaliah is observed on Sunday.
10
YOM KIPPUR
Yom Kippur is the one religious occasion which is observed entirely in the synagogue, yet the meal which precedes the Fast is intended to be a spiritual experience for the entire family. This meal is eaten early, so the
family can be in the synagogue before sundown.
Following Birkat HaMazon (the Grace after Meals), the candles are lit, and the following blessings are recited:
‫ּברּוך ַאּתָ ה ד" ֵא ֽלהֵינּו‬
‫ ַאשֶר קִּדשָנּו ּבמְ צֹותָ יו ו ִצּוָנּו להַדלִק נֵר שֶל יֹום ַהכִּפּוריִם‬,‫ֶמלֶּך הָעֹולָם‬
Baruch Atah Adonai, Elohaynu,
Melech ha’olam, asher kid’shanu bemitzvotav, ve’tzivanu lehadlik ner shel Yom HaKippurim.
Blessed are You, Lord our G-d, Ruler of the universe,
who has sanctified us by Your commandments, and has commanded us to kindle the Yom Kippur lights.
‫ּברּוך ַאּתָ ה ד" אֵֹלהֵינּו‬
‫ש ֶה ֶחי ָנּו וקִ י ָמנּו ו ִהגִיעָנּו לַּזמַן ַהזֶה‬
ֶ ,‫ ֶמלֶּך הָעֹולָם‬.
Baruch Atah Adonai, Elohaynu,
Melech ha’olam, sheh-hecheyanu, ve’kiyemanu, ve’higiyanu laz’man hazeh.
Blessed are You, Lord our G-d, Ruler of the Universe,
who has kept us in life, preserved us, and enabled us to reach this season.
FASTING
Self-denial in food and other physical pleasure is part of the tradition of the “Sabbath of Sabbaths.” Refraining
from meals, as well as work, helps in the self-discipline of heart and mind, and prepares us to face our Creator
in prayer and repentance, seeking forgiveness and blessings for life and health in the new year. Although children are not obliged to fast until they are 13, the fast may be observed in part or in full earlier. Jewish law and
tradition hold the maintenance of life and health as a prime religious duty. Therefore, when a person is ill or
weak, a doctor should be consulted about fasting.
YAHRZEIT CANDLES
It is customary to light yahrzeit (memorial) candles for deceased members of the family. They must be lit before the holiday candles.
BLESSING THE CHILDREN
Before leaving for shul, the parents bless their children by placing their hands on the head of each one, and
reciting:
For sons:
.‫פרים וכמנַשֶה‬
ָ ‫ישִמָך ד" כ ֶא‬
Yesimcha Elohim k’Efraim v’k’Menasheh.
May G-d give you the blessings of Efraim and Menasseh.
For daughters:
‫ ָרחל ולֵָאה‬,‫ ֽרבקָה‬,‫ש ֵמך ד" כש ָָרה‬
ֽ ‫י‬
Yesimech Elohim k’Sarah, Rivka, Rachel v’Leah.
May G-d give you the blessings of Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel and Leah.
And continue for all the children:
.‫ּֽׁשמרָך‬
ֶ ‫יברכֶך ד" וי‬
ֶ
.‫יָאֵר ד" ּפָניו ֵאלֵיָך ויחנֶָך‬
‫ישא ד" ּפָניו ֵאלֵיָך וישֵם לָך ׁשָלֹום‬
Yevorechecha Adonai v’yishm’recha. Ya’er Adonai panav aylecha vichunekah.
Y’sah Adonai panav aylecha v’yasaym lecha shalom.
May G-d bless you and guard you. May G-d show you favor and be gracious to you.
May G-d show you kindness and grant you peace.
FORGIVENESS
At this time, too, members of the family ask each other for forgiveness for the wrongs and hurts they have
done, knowingly or unknowingly, during the year.
11
RELIGIOUS AFFAIRS COMMITTEE . . . Charles Cohen
We welcome all new members, as well as our members who have been vacationing, back to Shul as we
start our busy schedule of New Year Holidays,
events and activities.
I want to thank Arthur Wartenberg for arranging our
Summer schedule of lay volunteers doing Dvar Torah, Haftorah and Torah readings during our Rabbi’s
and Cantor's well-deserved vacations. Yasher Koach
to all Summer volunteers for your excellent participation.
Our daily Minyanim - mornings at 8:00 and evenings
at 7:30, continue every day, all year ‘round, and we
thank our stalwart "regulars" who attend Minyan virtually every day and keep it going throughout the
year.
We ask our fellow congregants to volunteer for Minyan attendance a few times a month, as we often
need a 'TENTH’ man or woman so members can say
Kaddish.
We will be here for you if you need us ... and ask for
your reciprocation by volunteering on a regular basis. Let Holly Levy know if you have any preferences as far as day of the week, or morning or evening. Evenings in the Winter are sometimes especially
difficult, so please come if you can.
There is a valid perception that the same people very often to do the same things on Shabbat,
and that is primarily because they are here, and are
willing and able to do so, but our goal is to get ALL
members involved in the ritual process.
I know that we all are busy in our lives, but I ask
you to make a special effort to come to Shul on
time, as Torah Aliyahs are assigned before the Torah service starts, and if you are not seated before
the Torah service, it may be too late to receive an
Aliyah, so I am asking for your prompt arrival.
If you normally drive to Shul on Shabbat, and are
able to pick up an older member in your vicinity who
needs transportation, please let me know, as we do
need some drivers to perform this mitzvah to allow
some of our older members to attend services.
If you see a new face, feel free to meet and greet
that person during Kiddush or whenever. We get a
regular flow of visitors, and in the spirit of our patriarch Abraham, let us extend our hospitality to all
travelers or visitors, who could be prospective new
members as well.
Allow let me to reiterate our procedure on assigning
Aliyahs on Shabbat (other than on the High Holidays
or Bar/Bat Mitzvahs days). On Shabbat we have a
traditional Torah Minyan in the Chapel, and an egalitarian Minyan in the Sanctuary. If you want to receive an Aliyah in the egalitarian Minyan, to commemorate a simcha or other life cycle event, or if you
wish to read the Prayer for Our Country or the Prayer
for Israel, please let me or the Center Office know in
advance, so we can try to accommodate your request.
A word of remembrance about Dr. Gerhard Lang, a
long-time member who served with distinction for
many years on our Religious Affairs Committee. Dr. Lang also served as Gabbai, assigning
honors on Shabbat, as well as being a regular in
our High Holiday choir where he could apply his
great knowledge of both liturgy and music. He
passed away this Summer, and we extend our
deepest condolences to his wife, Adell, and to his
children and family.
Also, If you are a Kohan, Bat Kohan, Levi or Bat Levi,
and wish to do a Torah blessing, please advise as
well, as we sometimes need a Kohan or Levi for this
honor.
Best wishes for a Happy and Healthy New Year
5775. May it be a year of great blessings for you
and your family, and for SHALOM - Peace - in Israel and the entire world.
If you can't read the Hebrew to say the blessing, let
us know, and we'll help you with a transliteration and
some preparatory practice.
Charles Cohen
Let us know if you CAN read Torah and/or chant a
Haftorah, or have other underutilized Jewish skill
sets. We want to get our members involved in ritual
12
activities, so please reach out to us if you can participate in any way.
Please Join Us For A
FESTIVE SUKKOT LUNCHEON
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9
Adults $15
Parents + Children Under 12 $38
Youths 12 - 18 Years $10
------------------------------------------------------Please let us know by Wednesday, October 1 that you will join us.
Adults’ Names______________________________________________________
Children’s Names____________________________________________________
Address____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Phone____________________________ E-Mail____________________________
Number of Adults__________
Number of Children__________
Amount Enclosed $__________
Please seat us with___________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Please make checks payable to the FLJC/CBI.
Tables for 10-12 may be reserved with full payment.
We will try to accommodate you as best we can.
13
TISHREI
In the Torah, Tishrei is called the Seventh Month, but it is
now regarded as the first month, its first day being Rosh
Hashanah, this year beginning on Wednesday evening,
September 24.
In Prophets, the month is called yerach ha’etanim, the
Month of the Mighty. According to the sages, our patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, were all born in
Tishrei.
Sarah, Rachel and Hannah, who had all been barren,
were remembered by G-d on Rosh Hashanah with the
gift of children.
Adam was created by G-d on Rosh Hashanah.
And on Rosh Hashanah Joseph was freed from prison
by Pharaoh.
In the days of the Spanish Inquisition, a converso named
Don Fernando Aguilar was the conductor of the royal
orchestra. Longing to hear the shofar, he arranged a
concert for Rosh Hashanah, at which the instrumental
music of various peoples would be played. Many other
conversos came to the concert, where the t’’kia, sh’varim
and t’ruah sounds of the shofar were played under Don
Fernando’s direction, with all the clergy in ignorance of
the significance of the blasts.
3 Tishrei is the Fast of Gedaliah. Gedaliah was the governor of Judea, assassinated by the King of Ammon,
along with most of the Jews and Babylonians with him.
The remaining Jews, fearing Nebuchadnezzar’s vengeance, fled to Egypt, and the land remained desolate.
The Shabbat between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur
is Shabbat Shuvah, the Sabbath of Repentance .
10 Tishrei is Yom Kippur. Intoxicating beverages are not
consumed at dinner, lest one become drunk and his
prayers be an abomination.
Four days after Yom Kippur is Sukkot. The eighth day is
Sh’mini Atzeret, when the prayer for rain is once again
included in the Amidah.
On Simchat Torah we rejoice over the conclusion of the
Torah reading, and immediately begin reading it again.
Tishrei’s sign of the Zodiac is Libra. The month has 30
days, ending October 24.
14
NOSH & KNOWLEDGE
Please join us as a new year of the popular
Nosh & Knowledge
with Rabbi Roth returns.
Tuesdays, 11:30 — 12:30
in the Youth Lounge
September 9
September 16
October 7
October 14
October 21
October 28
November 4
November 11
November 18
November 25
December 2
December 9
December 16
Engage in challenging discussions of Biblical texts,
all read in English.
Everyone is welcome
as we study the Torah.
All discussions are in English
and each class is independent of the others,
so you can come as often as you like.
Fresh bagels, tea and coffee served.
ADULT EDUCATION . . . Charles Cohen
As the great Rabbi Hillel said, “If you do not increase
your knowledge, you decrease it." It is NEVER too
late to learn, and in this spirit we ask all members to
participate in the Adult Education opportunities at the
Fair lawn Jewish Center - Congregation Bnai Israel.
Whether it be Jewish-themed books or film, Torah or
Mishnah studies, public speakers, guest lecturers or
Scholar in Residence weekends, we can keep you
busy and well informed throughout the year.
Rabbi Roth and Cantor Wasser conduct classes on
various subjects which are well attended and very
successful. So Watch for announcements of classes
as the year goes on.
Rabbi Roth has been leading Nosh & Knowledge
classes on Tuesdays at 11:30 AM for many years.
Cantor Wasser leads a Mishnah classes after Minyan
on Wednesday mornings. Starting dates for classes
in the Fall will be announced.
We particularly need your support in making the
Scholar in Residence Shabbat, featuring wellknown Bible Scholar, ProfessorSharon Keller, on
Friday-Saturday, November 14 - 15 a great success. This event is always interesting and stimulating, and also helps financially in running other events
for free or at minimum cost to you. Please help with
your sponsorship and support of our annual Scholar
in Residence program.
For those in our Congregation who have expertise or
knowledge of a subject of Jewish interest, and want
to serve as presenters, please contact me or Rabbi
Roth, as many of our best lecturers have been from
our own congregational family.
Thanks to the continued efforts of Fran Westerman
and Phyllis Mirchin, we will again have our very popular Book of the Lunch series in the Fall and Spring.
On October 6 Edith Sobel will review The Museum
of Extraordinary Things by Alice Hoffman, and on
November 3 Rabbi Roth will review Ari Shavit’s My
Promised Land: The Triumph and Tragedy of Israel. Stay tuned for the December selection. Always
an interesting discussion -- and lunch!
Jewish learning should never stop. This has never
been truer than today. As the Children of Israel, we
are all, in a sense, representatives of the Jewish
faith. It is our responsibility to inform and educate
our children, as well as friends in the non-Jewish
world, about Judaism and Israel.
At a minimum, we need to know the basics of our
faith. When are our Holidays? How are they celebrated? What goes on at Shabbat or Holiday Services? What are the prayers, and what do they
mean? What makes Judaism different from the other faiths?
When asked a question about something basic in
Judaism, or news events as they affect Jews anywhere, a BLANK stare or NO ANSWER is not an
acceptable response.
Demonstrating that teaching and learning is a lifetime activity, our Rabbi Emeritus, Simon Glustrom,
has recently written a new book, Unfinished Journey: A Rabbi's Bout With Doubt reflecting his personal journey and reflections over a long
and distinguished career. Any "bout with doubt" has
no doubt made him develop a more insightful understanding of the aspirations and limitations of faith in
the modern age. A copy of his book was donated
by Rabbi Glustrom to our Max E. & Anna Bornstein
Library, and is also available from Amazon and
Barnes & Noble.
Let us take advantage of the many learning opportunities we offer at FLJC-CBI Adult Education, to acquire the basic knowledge, so we can make informed responses to questions and Jewish issues,
dispel the rampant disinformation, and tell the unknowing the truth about what is going on in Israel
and the world around us.
Charles Cohen
This year, Sisterhood will be hosting the popular
Books & Bagels Sunday morning series that Ellen
Wertheim ran successfully, and we appreciate Ellen's
involvement for many years in this popular program.
Their first selection is People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks, to be discussed on September 21. Sisterhood will announce future books and presenters
for the Fall and Spring.
15
THE SYNCOPATED SENIORS TO PERFORM AT
JFSNJ CAFÉ EUROPA
Jewish Family Service of North Jersey's Café Europa will be held Tuesday, September 9. The Syncopated Seniors will tap dance to standards and show
tunes. For over 25 years, this troupe has been performing in Bergen and Passaic County.
JFSNJ's Café Europa is a social and supportive program designed for Holocaust survivors. Monthly
meetings are held at the Fair Lawn Jewish Center
from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Lunch and a variety of
programming are provided.
Transportation can be arranged.
Call Melanie
Lester, Community Outreach Coordinator, at 973595-0111.
KESHER CAREER COALITION
OFFERS MENTORING PROGRAM
We want to remind congregants that our Mentoring
program, designed to support members during their
searches for employment, is in place.
We encourage anyone interested in becoming either
a mentee or a mentor to submit an application on the
following websites:
Application to be a Mentee:
www.cbsteaneck.org/kesher-mentee-app
Application to be a Mentor:
www.cbsteaneck.org/kesher-mentor-app
Leah Stromer, Coordinator of the Kesher Career Coalition Mentoring Program, will contact you after you
apply online.
Leah has contacted the people who applied to be
mentees, seeking to meet regularly with someone in
their field.
She also contacts the volunteer-mentor applicants
from our seven participating synagogues to develop
suitable matches.
The Coalition works closely with Jewish Family Service of Bergen and North Hudson (Teaneck) and
Jewish Family Service of North Jersey.
If circumstances warrant, participants are referred,
and are also informed of job search workshops that
are offered by those offices.
16
SOCIAL ACTION COMMITTEE . . . Nina Gold & Mark Meisel
Thank you for your donations, over the summer, of
school supplies for needy children. We received
great supplies that will help lots of kids start their
school year on the right foot. These supplies will be
distributed through the Center for Food Action.
During the High Holidays the Social Action Committee will once again be running a food drive. The
concept of running a food drive during the High Holidays was started by MAZON: A Jewish Response to
Hunger. Mazon runs a national appeal called “The
Corners of Our Field,” which is premised on the
Jewish tradition of setting aside the corners of one’s
fields for the poor and for strangers.
From now through October 3 before sundown,
when Yom Kippur begins, we will be collecting, at
the shul, non-perishable food donations for local
food pantries that serve our neighbors who are in
need: the Center For Food Action, St. Anne’s in Fair
Lawn, and Fair Lawn Human Services.
During Rosh Hashanah services, grocery bags and
a flyer reminding you of the food drive appeal will be
located in the shul lobby. As we prepare for the
High Holidays, and when we fast on Yom Kippur, let
us remember the many people in our community
who fast involuntarily because they don’t have
enough food to eat. In previous years we have collected hundreds of bags of food to donate. We
hope we can continue to build on this tradition with
your generous donations of non-perishable food
items, as well as checks and/or supermarket gift
cards.
The following is a list of suggested foods needed by
the food pantries:















In addition, during the High Holidays we will be working with the Jewish Association for Developmental
Disabilities (J-ADD) to sell beautiful flower arrangements for Rosh Hashanah and Sukkot. Flowers by
J-ADD employs people with developmental disabilities in productive and meaningful work. Please consider ordering your Rosh Hashanah and Sukkot flowers through J-ADD. Ordering details and contact information to come.
The Social Action Committee welcomes all congregants to participate in our projects. There are many
ways that members can participate, from helping out
with a few phone calls, bringing in clothing or food
donations, becoming a committee member, and helping us run one of the existing programs or creating a
new one.
Thanks for supporting our projects.
Mark Meisel & Nina Gold
What Does Hunger Look Like?
Hunger has many faces: A parent skipping meals so
her children can eat, a child going to bed with an
empty stomach, a recently-unemployed man making
do with a watered-down can of soup for his dinner so
he can save the rest for breakfast, a mom feeding
her two teenagers oatmeal for dinner several times a
month, an elderly man going through a dumpster outside a local restaurant. Each of these people has a
name and story; each lives in our community, and all
of them turned to our local food shelters for help.
Please support our food drives.
Canned Meat (tuna, chicken, etc.)
Canned Soups
Canned Vegetables
Macaroni & Cheese
Peanut Butter & Jelly
Cereal (kids’ cereal welcome)
Dry Milk (e.g., boxed Parmalat)
Supermarket Gift Cards (you can use your scrip )
Beans
Rice
Pasta
Baby Formula and Diapers
100% Juice
Nutritional Supplements (e.g., Ensure)
Checks made out to Center for Food Action
17
BREADS FOR TASHLICH
On Rosh Hashanah we Jews have a ceremony
called Tashlich. We go to the ocean, a stream or a
river to pray and throw bread crumbs into the water,
symbolically, throwing away our sins into the flowing
water.
Occasionally, people ask what kind of bread crumbs
should be thrown. Here are suggestions for breads
which may be most appropriate for specific sins and
misbehaviors:
For ordinary sins For erotic sins For particularly dark sins For complex sins For twisted sins For tasteless sins For sins of indecision For sins committed in haste For sins of chutzpah For substance abuse For use of heavy drugs For petty larceny For auto theft For timidity/cowardice For ill-temperedness For silliness, eccentricity For not giving full value For jingoism, chauvinism For excessive irony For unnecessary chances For telling bad jokes, puns For war-mongering For dressing immodestly For causing injury to others For lechery, promiscuity For being holier than thou For abrasiveness For dropping in without notice For over-eating For impetuosity For indecent photography For raising your voice For pride, egotism For sycophancy For being overly smothering For laziness For trashing the environment -
White bread
French bread
Pumpernickel
Multigrain
Pretzels
Rice Cakes
Waffles
Matzo
Fresh bread
Stoned Wheat
Poppy Seed
Stollen
Caraway
Milk Toast
Sourdough
Nut Bread
Shortbread
Yankee Doodles
Rye Bread
Hero Bread
Corn Bread
Kaiser Rolls
Tarts
Tortes
Hot Buns
Bagels
Grits
Popovers
Stuffing
Quick Bread
Cheesecake
Challah
Puff Pastry
Brownies
Angel Food Cake
Any long loaf
Dumplings
Wishing you and yours a
wonderful and peaceful New Year!
MEN’S PROGRESS CLUB
Seth Seigel-Laddy
Another summer has passed, and now suddenly the
kids are back to school, and we are starting to prepare for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. As I reflect back on my first year as President of the Men’s
Progress Club I am extremely proud of all that we
accomplished together. I am very much looking forward to the new year and what lies ahead for us!
We have so much planned, and we’d love for you to
get involved!
Larry Bach ([email protected], 973-7154461) will be coordinating our Ushers for the High
Holidays. We schedule ushers on the mornings of
Rosh
Hashanah,
Thursday,
September
25
and Friday, September 26, as well as Kol Nidre
evening, Friday, October 3 and Shabbat of Yom Kippur, October 4. If you haven't already, please contact Larry to sign up for a brief shift, and help to
keep the decorum we've all come to expect and appreciate during our ceremonies.
Along with Sisterhood, we cannot wait to welcome
everyone to the Back to Shul Bar-B-Que
on Sunday, September 14. We'll have LOTS of
great food and great entertainment, with a special
live performance from local super stars "Touch of
Gray!” Come on down to the Center, kick back and
relax with our shul family. Those willing and able to
pitch in with set-up, cooking and/or
clean-up please contact [email protected] or 917-5125591.
Todd Walker ([email protected], 201-2801179) has been recruiting all Summer for the Shofar
Corps! This year we plan to bring more spirit and
smiles to those in our community who cannot attend
High Holiday services first hand, so that all who wish
can hear the sound of the Shofar. If you know a
teen who is interested in volunteering, please
reach out to Todd as soon as possible. Our visitation date is Wednesday, September 17, fast upon
us!
We'll be decorating the Sukkah on Sunday, October 5 along with Sisterhood and the Religious School
students! Paper chains, paint, crafts, tape, glue, coffee, snacks... Come by, join in the fun after dropping
off the kids!
We are kicking off the New Year in High Gear! Come
be a part it; we need your energy!
See you all soon!
Warm regards,
18
SUKKOT
IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER!
Give yourself and your children a wonderful
holiday experience. with a beautiful and fragrant
Lulav & Etrog.
Participate in the procession around the synagogue!
$45 per set
Please complete this form
and return it to the Center Office.
Deadline for ordering is September 17.
Please be sure to join us for
Simchat Torah
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17
----------------------------------Yes!! Please order _________ Lulav & Etrog Set/s
___________ Payment is enclosed
___________ Bill my account
Name ____________________________________
Address __________________________________
as we conclude reading the Torah for the year,
immediately begin reading it again,
and parade around the sanctuary,
singing and dancing with the Torah!
The names of our
Simchat Torah Chatanei
will be announced in the
October issue of
News & Views
________________________________________E-Mail____________________________________
Phone____________________________________
19
20
SISTERHOOD . . . Leslie Frucht
5775 TORAH FUND PINS ARE HERE!
The FLJC Sisterhood has been busy planning a year
of activities. If you haven’t already sent in your Sisterhood dues for 2014-2015 we hope you will do so.
We are looking forward to seeing you at all of the
great events and programs we have planned.
Here are some of the programs/events coming up in
September and October 2014:
Back to Shul BBQ - Israeli Style (with MPC) –
September 14 1:00 - 4:00 PM
Book Club – Be prepared to discuss People of the
Book by Geraldine Brooks - September 21st 10:00 AM
Sukkah Decorating – October 5 during Hebrew
School
Paid Up Membership Event – Come enjoy a night of
Glass Fusion – October 23 7:30 PM
Please support the Torah Fund. Contributions of any
amount are appreciated and help support the Jewish
Theological Seminary and other Conservative causes.
I want to thank everyone who supported the underwriting of the Bima flowers, as well as placing New
Year’s Greeting in News & Views. A full list of greetings will appear in the October News & Views.
If you would like more information on any of the programs I mentioned you can phone the Center office,
or you can email me at [email protected].
The Sisterhood wishes you and your family L'Shanah
Tovah Tikatevu. May 5775 be a year full of peace
and prosperity for you and your family.
Leslie
The year 5775 marks the 129th anniversary of the
Jewish Theological Seminary. In honor of the Seminary’s anniversary, our goal this year is 129 women
(and men). Donations of any amount are appreciated. A contribution of $180 entitles you to the special
Torah Fund pin for 5775.
The theme of the 5775 / 2014-2015 Torah Fund pin is
Mishpacha — Family and the Tree of Life. The family
in all its forms is the solid system of roots that supports our tree of life. The Torah Fund pin this year is
a wide-branching tree.
Torah Fund supports the Jewish Theological Seminary which trains our rabbis and cantors, supports
Camp Ramah for our children, the Ziegler School of
Rabbinic Studies, and the Seminario Rabinico Latinoamericano.
Support our Conservative Jewish heritage. See Carol
Peligal for your Torah Fund pin, and wear it with
pride!
From: Jeff Goodman <[email protected]>
Date: Fri, Jun 27, 2014 at 8:52 AM
Subject: Purim Fun Run Donation
To: [email protected]
Dear R. Roth,
Thanks so much for sending us the proceeds from
your second annual Sisterhood Purim Fun Run.
Formal thank you letters will be coming from our
office, but I just wanted to write you a quick thank
you email for continuing to support our special needs
campers.
As per your instructions we are sending $1,500 to
Camp Ramah in New England for the 5 Tikvah
campers at camp from New Jersey.
We are also sending $300 to Camp Ramah in the
Berkshires for the one special needs camper from
New Jersey at that camp.
Again thanks for thinking of our special needs
campers and helping them spend the summer at
Ramah - it is much appreciated.
Shabbat Shalom,
Jeff
Jeff Goodman
National Business Manager
National Ramah Commission, Inc.
3080 Broadway
New York, NY 10027
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ON THE SHELF
BOOK OF THE LUNCH
Welcome back to the Max E. & Anna Bornstein Library.
Mazel Tov to our Rabbi Emeritus, Simon Glustrom,
on the publication of his latest book, Unfinished Journey: A Rabbi’s Bout with Doubt. Rabbi Glustrom,
since leaving the active pulpit, has had time to consider
all he learned at the Jewish Theological Seminary in
light of his 41 years on our pulpit, and his experiences
in the 23 years since then, and has evolved a personal
religious philosophy for today. Many thanks, Rabbi, for
donating a copy of ‘Journey’ to our Library!
The Museum of Extraordinary Things by Alice Hoffman will be reviewed by Edith Sobel at the Book of the
Lunch on October 6. Professor Sardie runs the Museum of Extraordinary Things on Coney Island in 1911,
featuring “living wonders,” such as his motherless webfingered daughter Coralie, who performs in a tank as
the Mermaid, where her father puts her at risk for what
he expects to be a profitable hoax. Ezekiel Cohen,
also motherless, is an immigrant from Russia who
abandons his family and faith, renames himself Eddie,
and becomes a photographer. He documents the tragic Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, and tries to solve the
mystery of the disappearance of a Triangle worker.
Publisher’s Weekly calls the book “A mesmerizing new
novel about the electric and impassioned love between
two vastly different souls during the volatile first decades of the 20th century.”
In a vastly different vein is Ari Shavit’s My Promised
Land: The Triumph and Tragedy of Israel. A patriotic Israeli columnist for Haaretz with unbridled love for
his country, he assesses unflinchingly the way in which
he sees Israel today. My Promised Land will be reviewed by Rabbi Roth at the November 3 meeting of
the Book of the Lunch.
In The Other Half of My Soul by Bahia Abrams a
college freshman girl from the Sephardic Orthodox
community of Brooklyn, who has never been away
from home before, falls in love with a bright young Shiite Muslim boy from Syria who has unknowingly fallen
into the hands of an Islamic terrorist organization. This
fast-moving thriller is a love story with adventure, and a
message of tolerance and peace.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 6
NOON
The Museum of Extraordinary Things
by Alice Hoffman
Reviewer: Edith Sobel
This really is an extraordinary book and story,
and exceedingly well told.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3
NOON
My Promised Land:
The Triumph and Tragedy of Israel
by Ari Shavit
Reviewer: Rabbi Ronald Roth
This book is an eye-opener, and since Israel is on
the front and inside pages of most newspapers,
this book is well worth reading and talking about.
We look forward to a stimulating, informative and
social Fall season with the Book of the Lunch series.
Please call the Center office (201-796-5040)
by the Thursday before the review
and we will have lunch and a welcome for you.
Our fees stay the same:
$80 for the series of 6 reviews:
3 in the Fall and 3 in the Spring
$15 per session for members
$18 per session for non members
The Max E. & Anna Bornstein Library is open Thursdays from noon to 3:00 PM, and by arrangement.
Very best wishes to you all for a happy, healthy and
peaceful 5775!
Phyllis Mirchin & Fran Westerman
Norma F. Pollack
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HIGH HOLY DAYS REMINDERS
NO
Please remember that food is not permitted
in any portion of the synagogue. During the
High Holy Days a special room will be available for parents to feed their small children,
as well as to change diapers.
Your Yom Kippur fast is a reminder of
those who go hungry every day. Please
bring at least one bag of food for the needy
to the synagogue by Yom Kippur. It will be
donated to the Center for Food Action.
Remember to wear non leather shoes to
shul on Yom Kippur. It’s a sign of turning
away from luxury – and it’s more comfortable.
OUR ANNUAL
SCHOLAR IN RESIDENCE SHABBAT
Friday - Saturday
November 14 - 15, 2014
Our Scholar in Residence will be
noted Biblical Scholar
Prof. Sharon R. Keller, PhD
Popular Lecturer and Bible Scholar
In the Tri-State Area
Our Kol Nidrei campaign needs you. In honor
of the holiest day of the year please pledge
and send the most charitable donation you
can.
Order your Lulav & Etrog for Sukkot. $45.
Orders are due by September 17.
Build and decorate your Sukkah October 5, 6,
7 & 8.
HER TOPIC IS
May you be inscribed and sealed for a good
year!
TAKE MY WIFE, PLEASE . . .
Marital and Non-Marital Relations
in the Bible and the Ancient World
Presentations Include
“Wife-Sister Stories
in the Bible and in the Dead Sea Scrolls”
“The Sotah Ritual”
“Joseph and His Escapades”
A flyer with all details and rates
will be mailed in the coming weeks.
Friday-evening dinner is an RSVP paid event.
Please support this important Adult Education
Scholar in Residence Shabbat
with your attendance and Sponsorship.
THANK YOU FROM THE
ADULT EDUCATION COMMITTEE
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FAMILY MATTERS
REFUAH SH’LEMAH
♥ So nice to hear that Bea Goldman is back home
again.
♥ Very happy that Sophie Richman is doing so
much better following a bad fall this summer.
MAZEL TOV!
♥ Mazel Tov to Fran & Sig Westerman on the
marriage of their granddaughter, Dina.
♥ Mazel Tov to Linda & Jeff Herrmann on the
marriage of their son, Neil.
♥ Mazel Tov to Gary & Rose Baskind on the
engagement of their daughter, Amanda.
MAY YOU BE COMFORTED
● Sincere condolences to Bob & Ann Sokol on the
loss of Bob’s mother, Gertrude Sokol.
● Deepest condolences to Adell Lang on the passing of her husband, Dr. Gerhard Lang, a long-time
member of the Religious Affairs Committee and of
our High Holidays choir.
As always, thanks to Robin and Dassa, who keep us
apprised of your Family Matters.
Very best wishes to you all for a health, happy and
peaceful 5775!
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‫מזל טוב לּבר מצוה‬
MAZEL TOV TO OUR BAR MITZVAH
ARIEL WILK
‫אריאל יונתן ּבן רונאן ולאה צינה‬
September 13, 2014
18 Elul 5774
Parsha: Ki Tavo
As Ariel ascends the bima as a bar mitzvah he will
share his simcha with his parents, Laura and Ronen,
and with his brother, Daniel Elan. Ariel enjoys music,
swimming, acting and Pokemon. While his career
plans are still in flux, some possibilities include business owner, chef, or scientist. However, right now
Ariel’s Bar Mitzvah project is raising funds for the
Foundation for the Families of Fallen Paratroopers
and the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces.
ALL IT TAKES IS 1½ HOURS A WEEK . .
.
Did you know that Bergen County has the greatest
number of senior adults in all of New Jersey?
And that many of these people are in their 80‘s and
90’s, and are not able to get out to shop or to cook
for themselves?
Jewish Family & Children’s Service
runs a
KOSHER MEALS ON WHEELS
program every day!
It is staffed solely by volunteers
who deliver hot lunches to 30 – 35 seniors each day.
Volunteers are needed!!
Can you give 1½ hours per week to deliver meals?
For information call:
Jewish Family & Children’s Service
(201) 796-5151
or visit our office at 17-10 River Road Fair Lawn
A LETTER FROM OUR BAR MITZVAH
My name is Ariel Wilk, and I will be a Bar Mitzvah on
September 13. For my mitzvah project I have decided to raise money for, and donate a portion of the
gifts I will receive, to two organizations that provide
services to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
I have chosen these organizations because my father
is a former IDF paratrooper. I have two cousins currently serving in the IDF, and I was in Israel in July
and witnessed firsthand the escalation of hostilities
along the Israeli/Gaza Strip border, and gained a better understanding of the sacrifices that IDF soldiers
make to protect Israel.
The first organization is the Foundation for the Families of Fallen Paratroopers (also known as “Dad’s
Friends”). It is a strictly voluntary organization, managed and operated by current and former paratroopers, which provides support and assistance to the
wives and children of fallen paratroopers. Activities it
conducts include two 4 day outings per year (one at
Hanukah and one during Passover), and a week-long
summer camp. It is funded solely through donations.
You can learn more about the Foundation at http://
aba35.co.il/FAQ2.asp.
The second organization that I am raising funds for,
and will contribute to, is the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF). FIDF provides financial, educational, social, cultural and recreational support to the
men and women serving in the IDF. This includes
support provided to the families of fallen soldiers;
financial, social and emotional support to soldiers
who have chosen to leave their countries of origin to
serve in the IDF (“Lone Soldiers”), including academic scholarships to eligible Lone Soldiers; recreational
programs for wounded soldiers; and building, refurbishing and maintaining recreational and sports centers, cultural and educational facilities, synagogues,
memorial rooms, auditoriums, and “soldiers’ homes”
for soldiers throughout Israel. If you would like to
make a donation to Friends of the Israel Defense
Forces, please do so through my donation page:
http;//www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/arielwilk/
arielwilksfundraisingpage.
Thank you for supporting me during my journey.
Ariel Wilk
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THE HOWARD & JOSHUA HERMAN EDUCATION CENTER . . . Judy Gutin
Opening Assembly & Registration
Sunday, September 7th
Parents and students are invited to join us Sunday,
September 7 when our doors will open on a new
school year.
9:00 - 9:25 AM Registration and check-in for new
and returning students will take place in the lobby.
Please be sure to take care of tuition and fees
before September 7.
Bring your completed Medical/Emergency form.
All forms will be available so that you can proceed
quickly to our opening assembly.
9:25 AM Opening Assembly will begin promptly
with the blast of the Shofar.
What’s new? Web-based Educational Programs
for 2014 - 2015
This year we are advancing our use of technology in
our school.
PrayerTech, a special new digital Hebrew program
for 3rd-7th graders, will enable our educators to bring
learning and Hebrew review to a new level of enjoyment for our students.
JetsIsrael: Our 7th graders will be participating in a
Distance Learning Course through the Jets Israel
educational website.
Ot LaBaot App: Our 2nd graders will use a new
learning App specifically created for their text book,
eliminating the need for a classroom workbook.
Prayertech: Our new Digital Hebrew Curriculum
Students in 3rd through 6th grades will be using a
new online curriculum to supplement their Prayerbased Hebrew curriculum from Torahaura, our text
book company. Torahaura describes their new Web
based program in the following description:
“PrayerTech is a multi-platform integrated system
for facilitating student development of Hebrew prayer comprehension and performance skills. Students
can log on using a tablet (iOS or Android) or any PC
or Mac computer to do work on their own. Through
the successful completion of activities students earn
game time towards major (non-teaching) games that
are part of this system.”
How does PrayerTech work for our students?
The PrayerTech student app is a multifaceted tool.
It will enrich classroom Hebrew experiences, and
serve as either homework or a resource for the
classroom. PrayerTech is organized by the prayer.
Each prayer offers 4-5 activities that engage students with the language elements of the prayer. For
each prayer, students make a recording of their
prayer performances, and send the recordings to
their teachers via email.
JetsIsrael Course for Zayin Students
Our 7th graders will be collaborating and studying
with the 7th graders at the Jewish Community Center
of Paramus. Through the JetsIsrael educational
Web site, our classes will remain in their own
synagogues, while signing in virtually to the
educational Web site at the same time, and
communicating via the Internet while learning. A trip
to the Jewish Heritage Museum is planned in
November, with both schools participating.
Students are excited about this study partnership.
Shabbat School for all Grades:
A New Shabbat Family Experience
Shabbat School is an innovative idea that we will
implement for the first time on Shabbat morning,
December 7. All students and parents are asked to
“save the date” and plan to attend what we hope will
be a very meaningful and fun-filled Shabbat experience. Faculty will join us as we learn by grade,
gather together for a special Torah reading, and end
our morning on the Bima, helping to lead the concluding prayers. Look for additional details in the
Fall.
Junior Congregation Meets Weekly Throughout
the Year
Throughout the school year we are grateful to Leor
Wasser, our weekly Junior Congregation Facilitator,
for leading a lively participatory service. Students in
our upper grades (3-7) are required to attend 8
times a year. Each class will be assigned Shabbatot when they are responsible for leading Junior
Congregation. Parents are welcome!
Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur Junior Congregation
The High Holidays are already upon us. We encourage all students to participate in our Junior Congregation program on both days of Rosh HaShanah, as
well as Yom Kippur.
Our teachers are busy preparing for what we know
will be an exciting year of learning. We look forward
to greeting each of you as we begin our Jewish
Journey together.
As is our tradition at this time of the year, I would
like to wish each of you and your families a Healthy,
Happy and Sweet New Year. May we see Peace in
Israel.
Shana Tova U’Mitukah,
‫שנה טובה ומתוקה‬
Judy Gutin
Principal
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SHIRLEY & PAUL PINTEL PRESCHOOL
Carol Weber
This is truly going to be a sweet new year for the
preschool! Over the summer something wonderful
has happened to the preschool …
We have a brand-new environment! From top to bottom our school has been renovated. Fresh paint,
new lights, fabulous flooring, and brand-new furniture.
I want to thank the FLJC board and congregation for
their support and foresight. They realized that, if we
want our wonderful Preschool to survive and remain
competitive, we have to bring our school environment
into the 21st Century.
We now have a winning formula for success; a new
and innovative curriculum, a fabulous staff, and a
Preschool environment that is conducive to learning.
To renovate a Preschool it definitely takes a village. I
want to thank the Pintel family for their generosity.
Without their funding the renovation of the Preschool
would not have been possible.
Thanks, to Alex Shinkar for finding the superb tradesman to make the vision for the Preschool come to
fruition.
Thanks and gratitude to the Men’s Progress Club for
helping clean out the classrooms and doing the
heavy lifting.
Thanks to Jerry Weiner, Gail Rottenstrich and Ellen
Wertheim for their input and support of the project!
I would be remiss if I did not thank my staff for cleaning out their classrooms in record time, so that the
renovation could begin.
Another change we have made is extending our after
care hours. We now have after care until 6:00 PM,
making it easier for working parents with late work
schedules.
I am asking all the FLJC congregants to spread the
word that the FLJC Preschool is better than ever, and
enrollment is ongoing!
A very happy and sweet New Year to all!
Carol Weber
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UPCOMING EVENTS FOR FAMILIES WITH YOUNG
CHILDREN
All events are open to anyone!
Bring friends and make friends.
ENDOWED FUNDS
and their purposes
ADULT EDUCATION
Jack Sanders Fund
Jeffrey M. Yagoda Fund
Sunday, September 14, 1:00 PM
Back to Shul BBQ
Families with young children are invited to attend this
fun synagogue-wide event. RSVP and payment
necessary. Check the Web site for details.
Thursday, September 25, 10:00 AM
Rosh Hashanah Family Service
Free and open to the community. Celebrate the Jewish
New Year in this short family service.
Thursday, September 25, Babysitting:
First day Rosh Hashanah 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Available to members, children supervised by a
preschool teacher while adults participate in services.
Thursday, September 25, Tashlich in the Park
4:30 – 5:30 PM
Join in the tradition of tossing your mistakes away in
the field with stream access behind Memorial School.
Casual, snacks, and socializing.
Friday, September 26, Babysitting:
Second day Rosh Hashanah 10:30 AM–12:30 PM
Available to members, children supervised by a
preschool teacher while adults participate in services.
Saturday, October 4, Babysitting:
Yom Kippur 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Available to members, children supervised by a
preschool teacher while adults participate in services.
Saturday, October 4, 7:15 PM
Yom Kippur concludes
At the conclusion of this holy day, children are invited
onto the bima for the final shofar blast at the end of
N’eilah. This is a respectful but happy celebration at the
end of our most sacred day. (N’eilah service begins at
6:00 PM.)
Tuesday, October 14, 6:00 PM
Sukkot: Pizza in the Hut
Sing, eat pizza, shake the lulav and etrog and
participate in the dedication of the new preschool
rooms. RSVP and small fee to cover dinner necessary.
Call Carol Weber at 201-796-9434.
Friday, October 17, 10:00 AM
Simchat Torah for Little Ones
An age-appropriate celebration of this happy holiday.
Touch and see the Torah up close, do an art project
and share a snack.
CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS
Thaler Fund
GENERAL
Ann Glass Fund
Bud Kessler Fund
Shirley Pintel Fund
Bruce Salmon Fund
ISRAEL TRIP SCHOLARSHIPS
Diane & Abner Blumberg Fund
Merle & Isadore Kenwood Fund
Louis & Belle Kopf Fund
MISCELLANEOUS
Gabel Fund - maintenance of the Gabel tapestry
NURSERY SCHOOL
Harris Flax Fund
Clare Green Fund
RELIGIOUS AFFAIRS
Irwin & Szije Gersten Fund - maintenance of
religious items
Cecile Roth Fund - chapel minyan Torah readers
RELIGIOUS SCHOOL AWARDS
Howard Herman Fund
Helen & Lester Milich Fund
Alan Marc Schreiber Fund
YOUTH ACTIVITIES
Max Findling / Rosner Zmigrod Society Holocaust Museum trips
Robert Lazerowitz Fund
Jeffrey Meyers Fund - Jewish education
June & David Salzman Fund - Jewish education
Find the latest on all of our events at
fljc.com/community/families-with-youngchildren
Questions or comments? Write [email protected].
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THE GENEROUS HEART WILL BE ENRICHED
YAHRZEIT FUND
CLARE GREEN NURSERY FUND
Rose & Gary Baskind & Family
Mazal Tov and best wishes on the engagement of
your daughter, Amanda to Dr. Jonathan Korngold
Ellie & Jerry Weiner
HOWARD HERMAN FUND
Religious School Scholarships
Natalie Klein
Best wishes for a complete and speedy recovery
Fran & Sig Westerman
BUD KESSLER FUND
General Purposes
Anita & Jay Brunn
In honor of Josh’s marriage. Loads of good luck to the
both of them
Fran Kessler
Natalie Klein
Best wishes for a complete and speedy recovery
Fran Kessler
ROBERT LAZEROWITZ FUND
Youth Activities
Natalie Klein
Best wishes for a complete and speedy recovery
Carol & Joe Peligal
RELIGIOUS SCHOOL FUND
Bob Sokol & Family
In memory of your beloved mother and grandmother,
Gertrude
Bena & Steven Weil
CECILE ROTH MEMORIAL FUND
Chapel Minyan
Best wishes for a complete and speedy recovery –
Bruce Ben Perla
Rhoda Pollack
RABBI’S TZEDAKAH FUND
Gina Pasirstein & Family
In memory of your beloved husband, father and
grandfather, Alex
Rose Lieberman
Suzanne & Arthur Mahler
In honor of your 60th Anniversary
Ann & Herb Lefkowitz
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Harry Blankenstein
Evelyn Blankenstein
Heinz Pasternak
The Pasternak Family
Myra Sherman
Jennifer Cohen
Julius Kahn
Marion Raindorf
Esther Raphaelson
Janet Denbaum
Abraham Ruthazer
Jack Ruthazer
Jerome Goldberg
Harriet Goldberg
Louis Redbord
Edgar Redbord
Estelle Harris
Harold Harris
Gus Singer
Sydelle Resnick Singer
Jean Kramer
Stuart Kramer
Sadie Siemon
Marilyn Fromkes
Barbara & Phil Steinberg
Pauline Lazar
Irwin Lazar
Steven Melamed
Aida Melamed
Gilda Stave Gelfand
Maxine Stave
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PERIODICALS POSTAGE
PAID AT
PARAMUS, NJ
A PRAYER FOR THE NEW YEAR
May you have a kiss from your beloved, a smile from a child, a warm, cozy home with the aroma of good
food. May you have a merciful IRS agent, good friends and helpful neighbors. May you enjoy the fruits of
your labors, celebrate birthdays and anniversaries, and may the sun shine on your face – but not too
much.
May your computer and your refrigerator both be safe from spam, and may your e-mail bring you only
good news, and jokes that are not as old as you. May you finally learn to understand what it is that you
are supposed to eat; is it more pasta and fewer carbs, or less pasta and more carbs, or is pasta a carb, in
which case you can’t eat it! Should you drink more coffee for the sake of its invigorating caffeine, or
should you drink decaffeinated coffee, which is healthier?
May your occupation, whatever it may be - homemaker or doctor, lawyer or tailor, house husband or stock
broker – give you much satisfaction. And may it also earn you enough money to send your children
through college and graduate school, and to support them ever after.
May you see a rainbow; may your child hit a home run with the bases loaded; may your team score a
touchdown.
May the Sabbath Queen enter your home and enable you to follow the teachings of the Torah with love.
In this New Year that now begins may your hair, your teeth, and your stocks not fall, and may your blood
pressure, your cholesterol and your mortgage rate not rise.
May you win the lottery, and thereby acquire a host of long-lost relatives, and may you remember the Fair
Lawn Jewish Center when you win.
May your children and grandchildren receive good reports in school, and may you receive a good report
also from your dentist, from your ophthalmologist, from your dermatologist, from your cardiologist, from
your gastroenterologist, from your podiatrist, from your urologist, and ultimately from your G-d. Whenever
it rains may you have an umbrella.
May Israel stop being the punching bag of the United Nations. May she be able to live a normal life at
last. And may she bless the world with her morality, her wisdom and her creativity. And may we support
her wholeheartedly, and love her because, with all her faults, she is family.
And may we meet on the streets of Jerusalem in the year to come, and, if the Messiah arrives, may we
recognize him or her.
May this year be happy, healthy and prosperous for you and your loved ones.
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