MARCH 2016 Issue III ADAR II 5776 - Amazon S3...MARCH 2016 Issue III ADAR II 5776 The Chronicle...

This year we are fortunate to have the Simcha of Adar with us for two months due to the leap year. Why is a second Adar added during a leap year as opposed to any other month? The Bnei Yissaschar zt”l suggests that the month of Adar corresponds to Yosef. Just as the tribe of Yosef was divided into two tribes, Menashe and Efraim, Adar is divided into two months in a leap year. The gemara tells us that the month of Adar is an exceptional month of Simcha, happiness. One of the greatest hindrances to Simcha is kina, jealousy. As long as one is jealous of someone else, they can not be happy with themselves and what they have; their mind is preoccupied with what they don't have and what others do. Only when one is free of jealousy can they truly be happy. This lesson is learned from the example of Menashe and Efraim. Even though Yaakov placed the younger Efraim before his older brother Menashe for a bracha, there was no jealousy that ensued. The month of Adar is therefore particularly well suited as a time for us to root out any jealousy that we may have of others in an effort to achieve true happiness. May we indeed have the insight, ability, and temperament to gain true simcha in these months of Adar. Purim Sameach!

Rabbi’s Message - Rabbi Eliezer Zwickler

[email protected]

President’s Message - Larry Liebman

[email protected]

“Mishenichnas Adar marbim b’simcha." As we anticipate the upcoming celebration of Purim, it is incumbent upon us to explore one of the central themes of that joyous holiday that marks the miraculous salvation of the Jewish people. As the story nears conclusion, in Esther 9:30, the megillah itself is depicted as "divrei shalom ve-emet - matters of peace and truth". What is signified by this surprising characterization and combination? Generally, the qualities of peace and truth present a study in contrast. Peace is typically associated with diplomacy and compromise, albeit often for the sake of a greater good or larger prize. Truth conjures images of rigid principle and can be identified with unyielding steadfastness, even inflexibility in the protection of the just and the right. Indeed, Chazal in Bereishit Rabbah convey that the competing qualities of truth and peace disagreed about the very creation of imperfect man. A preliminary analysis of the Purim story might reinforce the impression that the respective personalities and perspectives of Esther and Mordechai exemplified these contrasting and mutually exclusive approaches of peace and truth. Esther manages to rise to royalty even as she disguises her

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MARCH 2016 Issue III ADAR II 5776

The Chronicle VxÄxuÜtà|Çz HC lxtÜá

Congregation Ahawas Achim B’nai Jacob & David

A Shul, A Community, A Torah Way of Life

www.aabjd.org

Available on

Cong. Ahawas Achim B'nai Jacob & David 700 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, NJ 07052

Sisterhood, p. 15

Youth, p. 12

AABJ&D Jubilee Year , p. 8

Laws Of Purim, p. 6

Purim Edition

The Chronicle 5776 2

President’s Message, cont’d

real identity. The Talmud in Sanhedrin 74b questions how she was able to compromise religious standards in her relationship with the king. She appears very reticent to take bold action that might antagonize the king even when the nation is endangered. Indeed, Mordechai practically accuses her of self-interest when he pleads, al tedami be-nafshekh... Even as she is poised to act on behalf of Klal Yisrael, she maintains a diplomatic posture, professing that she would not have expended her political capital and intervened if the stakes were only to prevent Klal Yisrael from being enslaved. Mordechai, in sharp contrast, is described as defiant in the protection of his religious convictions, notwithstanding the evident danger. The megillah depicts his refusal to bow to Haman in the future tense, "lo yichre ve-lo yishtachaveh", emphasizing that his conduct stemmed from unshakeable conviction that could not change. According to some mefarshim, he refused to employ even legitimate heterim that would have safeguarded him from jeopardy. He emerges as a fearless crusading figure on behalf of his nation, urging actions to avert calamity, cajoling Esther with his faith in Divine providence - "u-mi yodea im la-eit ka-zot higaat la-malchut”. Yet, in the eleventh hour, when everything was on the line, even though Mordechai and Esther surely played different roles and even exhibited different postures and perspectives, they also work in concert, and their respective inclinations were hardly mutually exclusive. They join together in commitment and purpose. They set the example for all the Jews, despite their differences, to unite spiritually and physically. We find a parallel relationship of shalom and emet, each of which is utilized idealistically in the leadership of Klal Yisrael. in the Torah's depiction of Moshe and Aharon. The gemara in Sanhedrin 6b-7a characterizes Moshe Rabbeinu as one who embodies the quality of unwavering justice. Moshe is associated with truth-- Moshe emet ve-torato emet. At the other end of the spectrum is Aharon who is identified with love and peace. In Pirkei Avot he is described as ohev shalom ve-rodef shalom). Aharon, in fact, is the father of pesharah, compromise. Chazal note that only the beloved peace-making Aharon was mourned by "kol beit Yisrael", the entire nation.

Yet, these two leaders are not viewed as incompatible persona. Each of these midot, shalom and emet, plays a crucial role in Jewish leadership as long as the goals are idealistic and the motivations are principled and sincere. In fact, each of these qualities qualifies as a Divine characteristic and even a sheim Hashem. On the one hand Chotamo shel Hakadosh Baruch Hu emet— Hashem's seal is truth. But equally, Shalom ,Peace, is a Divine name. We as a community do not face the dangers that confronted the Jewish community in Shushan, nor do we have the challenges that faced Moshe and Aharon in Egypt and then in the dessert. But, on our level and in our way, we must strengthen our efforts to build on our past for a better, stronger and unified Torah observant community for today and for tomorrow. We have those who champion the emet of their beliefs and others who are the pursuers of compromise and conciliation. It is our mission and challenge to channel everyone’s persuasion for the betterment of our shul and community. We specifically need to take pride in our building, keeping it sparkling, join more committees and become involved and attend the various programs the Shul is offering such as Yom Hashoah, Yom Ha’atzmaut etc. Purim teaches that we as a people succeed, despite our differences, if we unite. Esther told Mordechai, K’nos et kol hayehudim, gather all of the people. Just as they succeeded and celebrated over 2500 years ago in Shushan, we too can succeed in reaching our goals for our shul and community. If our dreams and hopes become a reality, it will make this year’s jubilee celebration at our annual dinner, which we hope everyone will attend, into a most memorable event for all. Chag Purim Sameach.


Purim Masquerade: Unmasking the

Origins Yosef Sharbat

Assistant Rabbi [email protected]

Purim is our holiday of dressing up and having fun. We all associate the day with images of masks and costumes. Parents and children spend time deciding upon themes around which to base their colorful and creative attire. What is the source for costume wearing and does it pose any halachik issues? Surprisingly, the practice of wearing masks and costumes on Purim is not mentioned in the Talmud, Midrash or Geonim. The first to record the custom is R. Yehuda ben Eliezer ha-Levi Minz, (c. 1405-1508)Teshuvot Mahari Minz no. 15; however, he does not provide the origin or reasons for dressing up in costume. There are those who find allusions in the custom of masquerading to the Purim story. R. Eliyahu Shapira (1660-1712), Eliya Rabba, O.C. 696 assumed that by wearing costumes, we commemorate the moment that Mordecai was dressed in regal clothing and led by Haman through the city. R. Menashe Klein (1924-2011), Teshuvot Mishne Halachot, 7:92, says that dressing up is a way to remember the miracle of Purim. When Achashverosh agreed to Haman’s plan of Jewish genocide, many Jews dressed as non-Jews. When the plan was reversed and the Jews were permitted to attack their enemies, many of the non-Jews disguised themselves, pretending to be Jewish in order to evade death. It says in Megillat Esther (8:17) "And many of the people of the land professed themselves to be Jewish, for the fear of the Jews had fallen upon them." They pretended to convert to Judaism, but didn't actually convert. Since they hid their identity and masqueraded as Jews, we commemorate this miracle by wearing costumes and hiding our identity. Another reason is given by R. Ephrayim Greenblatt (1932-2014), Teshuvot Revivot Ephrayim, 6:386 who assumed that the tradition is based on a halacha from the Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 694:3 that whoever stretches their hand out on Purim to ask for charity is given money. On Purim we mask our identity so that the poor who go around collecting will not be embarrassed.

While Ashkenazic poskim permit one to wear costumes on Purim, many Sephardic poskim were against dressing up of any kind on Purim. R. Yosef Messas (1892-1974) and R. Meir Mazuz (b. 1945), Sansan L’Yair, no. 12 believed that is prohibited based on chukat hagoyim (following in the ways of the gentiles.) They concluded that the origins of this custom stem from the pre-Lent festivity of Carnavale. [R. Yaakov Kanievsky (Steipler Gaon) (1899–1985) Orchot Rabbeinu 3:104 disagreed with this notion and to the contrary said it was the gentiles who got it from the Jews.] R. Messas speculated that the Mahari Minz allowed it only for young children and thus is completely prohibited for adults. Nonetheless, R. Messas concluded that even young children should not dress up in costume. The notion of wearing costumes on Purim is not mentioned in the works of the famed Sephardic rabbi, R. Yosef Chaim of Baghdad (1832-1909). What is mentioned in his Ben Ish Chai (Parshat Ki Tisa, no. 22) is that the common practice on Purim is to wear Shabbat clothes. However, R. Ovadia Yosef (1920-2013), Chazon Ovadia Purim p. 199, upholds the tradition to wear costumes on Purim and does not see any reason to prohibit it. Excerpted with permission from YU Torah To-Go.


How could he make the same mistake twice? Yosef himself suffered from the favoritism that his father had for him, and in turn was abandoned by his brothers and was even sold by them. After finally revealing his true identity to this brothers in Egypt, Yosef generously gave every one of his brothers one change of clothing except for Binyomin who received five changes of clothing. How could Yosef have done such a thing? After such an emotional reconciliation, did it make sense for Yosef to reinstate the hatred? What was to gain by such a gesture? The Vilna Gaon points out that the Torah mentions that Yosef gave the brothers changes of clothing ( חליפות while for Binyomin, read without Nekudot, it שמלת), says a change of clothing ( .(חלפת שמלותThus, the Torah is telling us that Binyomin’s five changes of clothing were worth the same amount as one change of clothing for brothers. While this may partially justify Yosef’s gifts, it doesn’t explain the strange nature of his actions. The Gemera (Meggilah 16b) explains that Yosef was sending his brothers an encoded message. One day, one of Binyomin’s descendents, Mordechai, would go out with five sets of clothing: ומרדכי יצא בלבוש מלכותתכלת, וחור, ועטרת זהב גדולה, ותכרית בוץ, וארגמן (אסתר Finally, after it was revealed that the Jews wouldח:טו). be able to defend themselves against the anti-Semites, a communal sigh of relief was felt by the Jewish people. Mordechai, now a high minister, went out wearing blue (1) and white (2), and with a great crown of gold (3), and with a robe of fine linen (4) and purple (5). What message was Yosef attempting to communicate to his brothers by foreshadowing such events? Why did Modechai’s clothing justify Yosef’s special gift to Binyomin?

Not Only Kids Dressed Up on Purim

- Yitz Richmond Rabbinic Intern

Rav Moshe Wolfson Shlit”a explains that precisely at the juncture when Yosef’s brothers received clarity about their past events, Yosef seized the juncture to highlight the irony. While in Egypt, the brothers felt that they were being manipulated by a cruel ruler. In reality, this “cruel ruler” was wearing a mask and in fact was the righteous Yosef, their estranged brother. Similarly, it was somewhat ridiculous to see Mordechai, a man of incredible righteousness and stature in the Jewish community, wearing royal Persian clothing. This was in contrast to Mordechai’s usual “black hat and long black coat”. By doing so, Mordechai was hinting at the irony. While his true colors were “black and white”, he went out in disguise. While the Jews may have felt alone and without Hashem’s providence during the Purim story, in reality, Hashem was there the whole entire time, albeit in hiding. The Passuk continues that after the Jews witnessed Mordechai’s clothing and his message they were,צהלה ושמחה overcome with joy. It is for this reason that we dress up in Purim. While outward appearances may be deceptive at times, in reality, Hashem is always present. Yosef seized on this opportunity to highlight to his brothers that just as the “mask” which he was wearing belied his true identity, so too in the future, during the course of Jewish history, reality will belie Hashem’s providence. Dressing on Purim gives us the opportunity to reflect on this point. While we may not always be able to see Hashem because He is “hiding”, in reality He is always here.


-Michele Glazer Early Childhood Director

[email protected]

The weather outside may be frightful, but there are no “winter blues” to be found in the nursery school. The children’s warm smiles and sunny personalities keep

the atmosphere bright! As we reach the middle of the school year, our program and activities continue to be enriching and exciting. Whether learning about Purim, alphabet, Parsha, or science, you can be sure that the nursery school children are having a super time.

The 4s are immersed in learning the alphabet and aleph bet. Each letter of the aleph bet introduces Hebrew vocabulary words and also reminds the children of another middah they should do. Recently, the children proudly celebrated the completion of Sefer Bereishit with a siyum. They came to school dressed as their favorite character from the parshiot. Parading for the 2s and 3s were, Yosef, animals from the teva, rainbows and more! Our 3s had a wonderful time learning about bears (real and teddy) and hibernation, and as a culmination of this learning, enjoyed a “Teddy Bear Picnic/Hibernation Party.” Dressed in pajamas, the children and their teddy bears sang songs, went on a bear hunt, and played hibernation games using a parachute. The activity concluded with a picnic of delicious Huggy Bear Cookies.

Combining the theme of winter with math concepts, the 2s created a winter counting book. The artistically decorated pages included 1 snowman, 2 snow angels, 3 hanging icicles, 4 snowy footprints, and 5 snowballs. There have been many enriching activities taking place at the nursery school. “Sunday Morning With Dad” took

place on February 7. What a wonderful opportunity this was for the children, having their dads visit their classrooms and experience school activities together, including a bagel breakfast. The children and their fathers had a wonderful time! Preparing for Purim brings excitement to the nursery school. The children love learning the Purim story, creating their own Megillot,

groggers, masks, Mishloach Manot baskets, and of course, baking hamantaschen. Our school’s celebration will be highlighted by a comical magic show performed by “The Art of Magic”. We were excited to begin our Tiny Tots program in December. As an early welcome to our nursery school, this nurturing program for “1s” includes playing in the classroom or gym, circle time with singing and stories, arts and crafts, and of course lots of fun and age-appropriate learning. The class started meeting on Monday and Wednesday mornings from 9:00-11:00 am, but due to popular demand from the parents and very happy children, we extended the schedule to include Friday mornings as well. We were so happy to welcome our new and youngest school members to the nursery school family. It’s hard to believe that we are already preparing for another exciting school year. Registration is in progress, and the planning for an amazing 2016-2017 school year is underway. We continue to offer several Extended Day options, providing morning and after school care for our students. We are happy to provide this program for our community.


fulfill the obligation of the blessings before and after. It is customary to make noise when the name of Haman is mentioned. It is forbidden to speak from the time of the brachot before the reading until the end of the brachot after the reading. Ideally, the Megillah should be read in the presence of a minyan. Women should make every effort to hear the Megillah in the presence of a minyan at shul. Their attendance helps fulfill the verse ברוב עם הדרת מלך, “The King’s glory is in a multitude of people”. If, however, this is impossible and a woman has the Megillah read to her at home, the first Bracha recited prior to the reading should be לשמוע מקרא in addition to the מגילהother brachot. If a person is having the Megillah read to them and the reader has already fulfilled his obligation, one of those in attendance should recite the brachot on behalf of those listening. If this is not possible, the reader may recite the brachot himself. When reciting the Bracha of שהחיינו during the day, one should have in mind the other mitzvot of the day: Mishloach Manot, Matanot L’evyonim, and the Purim meal. (see below) On Purim Day the prayer על הניסים al hanissim is added in the Shmoneh Esrei and in Bircat Hamazon (Grace after Meals). If one forgot על הניסים one does not repeat the tefillah (prayer). Tachanun is not recited, nor is lamenatzeach. (Continued on page 7)

Laws of Purim

Shabbat Zachor - Parshat Tzav Shabbat, March 19, 2016 Is a biblical obligation for everyone to hear parshat Zachor read on Shabbat Morning. Parshat Zachor is a part of the Torah in which we remember the nation of Amalek and its attempt to destroy the Jewish people. It is read on this Shabbat, the Shabbat before Purim, since Haman was from the nation of Amalek. In order that women with young children are able to hear Parshat Zachor we will have a reading after davening at the beginning of the Kiddush in the main shul. Taanit Esther Wednesday, March 23, 2016 Fast begins: 5:42 AM If one wishes to wake before the beginning of the fast and eat, one must have this intent in mind before going to sleep the night before. Mincha : 1:45 & 6:50 PM Fast ends: 7:55 PM PURIM Thursday, March 24, 2016 Before the reading of the Megillah on the night of Purim, it is customary to donate three half-dollars in commemoration of the half shekels that were donated this time of year in the days of the Beit Hamikdash. The silver half-dollars will be available at the bimah after Maariv, before Megillah reading and thereafter. It is customary to acquire the half-dollars by lifting them and giving one’s own money to tzedaka. One can also do so during the day of Purim. Kriat Hamegillah –Reading The Megillah It must be read from a scroll written in accordance with Halachah. The Baal K’riah (reader) and the listeners must have intent to fulfill the mitzvah of reading and to


GIFTS TO FRIENDS Mishloach Manot One is obligated to give at least one gift to one fellow Jew on Purim day. The gift must consist of at least two items of food, ready to eat. It is preferable to send the gift via a third party. GIFTS TO THE POOR Matanot L'evyonim One is obligated to give a gift of money, sufficient for one meal, to at least two poor people. The more the better. Funds must be available on the day of Purim. (No post-dated checks.)

It is preferable to take care of this obligation early in the day. The gift may be given to a third party in order to distribute on the day of Purim. Checks can be made out to the AABJ&D Mitzvah Fund for this purpose. Funds will be distributed on Purim day itself.

More should be spent on Matanot L’evyonim (gifts to the poor) than on Mishloach Manot (gifts to friends) unless they are also poor. THE FESTIVE MEAL Seudat Purim It is obligatory to partake of a festive meal on the day of Purim. The meal must begin during the day and may extend into the night. It is customary to eat food with seeds, e.g., Hamantashen with poppy seed filling. One should drink more wine than one is accustomed to. It is proper to invite guests, especially the needy. The conversation should be focused on words of Torah. CUSTOMS Minhagim Many have a custom to dress up in costumes. It is customary to give charity to all who ask. Some produce amusing Purim plays. Some also present amusing divrei Torah. It is customary to visit the homes of one's Rabbis and teachers. One should start studying the laws of Pesach on Purim.

(Continued from page 6)

Laws of Purim, cont’d Hamantaschen 3 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 sticks (6 ounces) butter, softened 1/2 cup sugar 2 large eggs 1 tablespoon orange zest 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

To assemble the cookies: 1 large egg 2 tablespoons milk 1 1/2 cups of filling, such as fruit jam, Nutella, poppy seed filling, or thick compotes Stir together the flour and salt, and set aside. With an electric mixer or in a stand mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, zest, and vanilla, and mix until well combined. Add the flour, a half a cup at a time, mixing gently. The dough should look crumbly, but stay together. Use your hands to form it into a smooth disk, then wrap the disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour and up to 24 hours.

Preheat the oven to 375°F and line several baking sheets with parchment paper. In a small bowl, use a fork to whisk together the egg and milk, then set aside. On a well-floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness. (If necessary, divide the dough in two and keep the other half of the dough wrapped in plastic until ready to use.) Use a 2- to 3-inch diameter biscuit or cookie cutter to cut out round circles, and use a spatula to transfer the rounds to the prepared cookie sheet.

On each round, spoon a 1/2 teaspoon of your desired filling. Lift up 3 sides and pinch the corners together to make a triangular 3-cornered hat shape, leaving the center of the filling exposed. Make sure you have thoroughly pinched the corners. If you're having trouble, you can moisten the surface of the dough lightly with the egg mixture.

Make sure there's about an inch of space between each cookie, then lightly brush the pastry with the egg wash. Bake until lightly golden, about 15 to 18 minutes. Let the cookies cool completely before serving; overeager eaters will find themselves rewarded with scorching hot filling!

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

RECIPE CORNER


Congregation AABJ&D’s Jubilee Year Celebration is in full-swing. Plans for the upcoming 2016 AABJ&D shul dinner are well underway and should be the highlight of AABJ&D’s 50th year anniversary. But there are some upcoming activities that should not be missed.

On April 1-2, Rabbi Daniel Alter will visit West Orange for Shabbos as a Scholar in Residence. Rabbi Alter, who served as Congregation AABJ&D Assistant Rabbi from 1997 to 2000, founded a new shul DAT in Denver to attract young families there, doubled attendance at the Modern Orthodox elementary school, and founded a high school five years ago. He and his family recently moved back to New Jersey where Rabbi Alter serves as Head of School at Moriah in Englewood, NJ. Plan to attend what should be an invigorating Shabbos of learning and reflection.

A Jubilee Kiddush which will recognize Early Childhood, Youth Committee, NCSY, Adult Education and Together on Tuesday lay leaders and professionals is being planned for Shabbos, April 2nd.

Watch for weekly Jubilee Video Interviews which provide information about specific events that helped to shape our shul community. These interviews run the gamut from founders’ children remembering what it was like during B’nai David’s formative years, to lay leaders sharing their memories about particular shul activities. These video interviews would not have been possible without the assistance of videographers Eitan Rubin and Jonathan Zughaft, and the editing skills of Perry Raskin.

Congregation AABJ&D Jubilee Year Celebration Update

- Mali Schwartz [email protected]

Jubilee Year Celebration Chair

A special Jubilee Historical Retrospective which is formatted by each decade that Congregation AABJ&D has been in existence will be printed and distributed at the upcoming 2016 shul dinner. This historical retrospective will serve as a resource for shul members to develop a shared sense of communal history. Hopefully it will also create an awareness in our shul members of the time and energy that has been expended by our rabbinic leadership and lay leaders to help create the shul community we have today.

And finally let’s remember our theme for the Jubilee Year – Embracing the Past; Building our Future.

Every once in a while, a truly unique and stellar individual comes along and touches our lives. Rabbi Daniel Alter, our Assistant Rabbi, has been just such an individual. Rabbi Alter and his lovely eishes chayil, Rivka, have made an indelible impact upon our Shul and our community, and it is with much sorrow that we say tzeischem l’shalom to them and their adorable children as they make their move from West Orange to Denver.

From the very beginning – when we welcomed them at a Friday night oneg Shabbos program – it was obvious that they would both find their way into our hearts. So poised, so intelligent, so . . . young! But then came the beard, and the youthful appearance gave way to demonstrations of abilities, through learning, chesed, divrei Torah, and active support of Shul programs in his role as Rabbi Marcus’s assistant.

Then, just before Pesach in 1998, the lightning bolt struck – Rabbi Marcus took ill, and Rabbi Alter was thrown into the breach. How many others at his stage of life would have thrown in the towel – calling for help as they drowned in the deep end of the pool? But Rabbi Alter performed admirably, shouldering all the rabbinic responsibilities of our Shul for almost ½ a year.

Rabbi Alter has fulfilled his duties as assistant to Rabbi Marcus and then as assistant to Rabbi Sprung with enthusiasm and with zeal. There have been countless times that he has gone “above and beyond” what was required, always with his special combination of anivus and eidelkeit.

We wish the Alters success and hatzlachah rabah in their future life in Denver. Reprint from the Jan 2000 issue of the Chronicle.


If You Build It, They Will Come: A Tribute to Kurt Altmann, Chairman of the First AABJ&D Building Expansion

- Mali Schwartz [email protected]

Jubilee Year Celebration Chair

In 1966, Congregation B'nai David of West Orange and Congregation Ahawas Achim B'nai Jacob of Newark merged to form the new Congregation Ahawas Achim B'nai Jacob & David (AABJ&D). The new shul quickly bought a small Baptist Church building at 700 Pleasant Valley Way, but the leadership knew that the shul would soon outgrow this space. The AABJ&D Men's Club, under the leadership of Gilbert Silverman, conducted a study of the estimated growth in the Jewish community. The findings were presented in a letter to President Morris Ravin on November 4, 1968. They showed that the total number of Jewish residents in West Orange had increased dramatically between 1960 and 1967, ensuring that the West Orange Jewish population was on an upswing. The survey underscored AABJ&D's need for additional space. A Building Planning Committee Report in 1968 looked at the number of students currently enrolled in the Hebrew School (100) and Nursery School (20), and the number of tickets sold for High Holiday Services (supply of 340 seats, and demand for about 425). Based on estimated growth over the next five years, the number of Hebrew School students would double, there would be 40 to 50 children in the Nursery School, and 600-700 seats for High Holiday Services would be needed. Two building plans were presented in this 1968 report. Plan #1, which was chosen, involved attaching a new

structure to the rear of the existing building that would create enough seating capacity for the High Holidays, add a Social Hall, and create Hebrew School classrooms downstairs. A facelift to the front of the synagogue would provide the finishing touch. Two individuals played a vital role in the shul's building expansion, which cost $250,000. Kurt Altman was chairman of the building committee, and David Hersh was chairman of the fundraising campaign. Born in Germany, Kurt escaped the Nazis in 1935 to live in Israel where he served in the British Army and then the Haganah and Israeli Army. Kurt came to America in 1952 and pursued a degree in Civil Engineering. In 1959, Kurt married the former Tivona Reuveni, who was an exchange registered nurse from Israel. Kurt joined Pella Corporation of West Caldwell and worked there for many years.

On Sunday, June 9, 1974, the AABJ&D Building Dedication Ceremony took place. An article that appeared in The Jewish News reported that "the warm clear sunny weather during the long anticipated Building Dedication Ceremony, had its counterpart in the mood of approximately 600 persons attending the dedication ceremony for Congregation

Ahawas Achim B'nai Jacob and David's new synagogue in West Orange designed by Lawrence S. Stern." Kurt Altmann cut the ribbon and called the one and a half years spent building the synagogue "a labor of love from the first day of inception." The following appeared in the 1974 AABJ&D Dedication Journal: "Today, Ahawas Achim B'nai Jacob & David is a young and growing congregation of approximately 350 families. It is the largest Orthodox synagogue in the Newark area and one of the largest in New Jersey." It is with heartfelt thanks that we pay tribute to Kurt Altmann, a shul member who dedicated countless hours of his time and energy in ensuring the success of the first AABJ&D building expansion.


Rabbi Aryeh Lightstone Assistant Rabbi 2004–2006

I came to AABJ&D as a single young man who was not very interested in pursuing a career in the rabbinate. I originally thought the opportunity would be a good service experience. Having the opportunity to get to know and work closely with the rabbis & lay leaders, but also as a single guy, living and eating every Shabbos meal at a different home, I had the opportunity to see a community in the way few in the rabbinate can. The community embraced me and I am incredibly appreciative of the time we spent together, I know I grew a tremendous amount from my experience at AABJ&D. I found a community that was searching anew for its identity and for cohesiveness. The community rallied around Rabbis Marcus and Zwickler (and, to a lesser extent, me) and shined through with extra warmth, caring and love. Simchas Torah at AABJ&D was particularly moving. It was a celebration of the Torah and the community. At the end of almost every AABJ&D wedding, you got a very similar feeling. AABJ&D is really a large family shul and once I understood that, I realized why people cared so much about all of the challenges and opportunities of the shul and community. There are other neighborhoods in the tri-state area where you can always just go to the shul or school next door or across the street. However, in West Orange in general and AABJ&D specifically there is a strong sense of community and communal responsibility. There are numerous times that I encountered people going above and beyond even though they “didn’t have to.” But they felt that they had

AABJ&D Former Assistant Rabbis Part 5

to because AABJ&D is their shul and West Orange is their community. That is the legacy of Rabbi Marcus, carried on by Rabbi Zwickler and the community of AABJ&D. I think all Rabbinic interns and assistant rabbis hope that we were able to capture some of that with us and bring it to our families, communities, shuls and organizations. Estee and I got married while I was still at AABJ&D. After leaving West Orange, I served as the regional director of New York NCSY. Now I run a political organization – working in a shul was absolutely perfect preparation! It is a Super Pac called B-PAC and a c-4 called Shining City. I’m also working on my ed tech start up called Copia. The first two organizations are in support of a strong Israel and America, while the company is about making education better and more affordable. Rabbi Aryeh and Estee Lightstone are the proud parents of 3 children: Akiva Yisrael, Shayna Hadassa and Simcha Ephraim.


Rabbi Daniel Rockoff Assistant Rabbi 2006–2008

I found AABJ&D to be a very large congregation, but also a very warm place, imbued with the sense of being one kehilla. I enjoyed working with people of different backgrounds and different ages – a diverse group, but we were all pulling in the same direction. I have great memories of working with Rabbi Zwickler, and learning from and sitting next to Rabbi Marcus. The Yachad Shabbaton was a terrific experience for me. I remember going with Ed Berliner to check the eruv– we found problems that needed fixing almost every erev Shabbos. It was like a trial by fire! I remember that we drove in Danny Amster’s convertible with Rav Shimon Eider shortly before he was niftar. When our oldest child was born, right before we were to leave West Orange, the entire shul made the shalom zachar for us. This was very touching. So many people came out to help and to celebrate with us. We really felt the love. I’m now the rabbi of Beth Israel Abraham & Berliner (BIAV), a combination of 4 shuls in Kansas City. It is much smaller than AABJ&D – about 150 families – but similar in diversity. In KC, we have a lot more interaction with non-Orthodox. We have one day school for all streams of Judaism, and I am the Director of Matmidim program (Judaic studies for Orthodox students). I also serve on the Rabbinical Association of Kansas City, and am the Rav HaMachshir of the Vaad HaKashruth of Kansas City, the Overland Park Eruv, the Kansas City Community Mikvah, and the Chevra Kadisha.

AABJ&D Former Assistant Rabbis Part 6

Rabbi Daniel and Ayala Rockoff are the proud parents of 3 children: Shai, David Aryeh, and Ora. Breaking News! The Rockoffs had a new baby boy, Binyamin Nadiv, shortly before we published this issue of the Chronicle. Mazel Tov!


Youth - Rachel & David Shenkler

[email protected]

What an amazing, action-packed, program-filled, fantastic and fun year the Youth Department has had thus far. Students in K-2nd grade were invited with their families to take part in a special Hachnasat Orchim event. We learned about Hachnasat Orchim and Avraham while making a welcome sign for our homes! The 4th and 5th grade girls were able to participate in a bonding/chocolate making afternoon at the shul. The girls made delicious emojis out of chocolate and got creative as they used their chocolate to make pictures depicting the story of Chanukkah. All families were welcome to participate at the shul’s Chanukkah Chagigah where we had some exciting Chanukkah activities! Kids were able to trade in their point cards for fun prizes, play in a dreidel competition and even enter a competition to design the new AABJ&D Youth mascot!!! We are very excited to announce that the

winner of the mascot competition was Ariel Hammerman and the design will be used on t-shirts available for purchase at the Purim Carnival. After Chanukkah we held a special bonding night for the youth leaders as we had fun bowling and hanging out on

a Saturday night. As a fun community bonding night, the youth department rented out a theater for a private showing of Star Wars VII: The Force Awakens! We had a packed theater and enjoyed watching the movie together on a Sunday morning. On New Year’s Eve all K-2nd grade students were invited to the shul for a PJ movie night with a pizza dinner. We had fun watching Lilo and Stitch and even played a few games after the

movie ended. We had a great turnout at our visit to Daughters of Israel in January. AABJ&D families and resident of Daughters of Israel teamed up for an exciting game of word trivia. AABJ&D families learned

some new words from the residents while we were able to teach them slang from the 2000s. 5th-7th grade girls were invited to take part in a dance class to learn the popular Bar and Bat Mitzvah dances! The girls were able to practice some popular dances and also learned a few new ones as well!

In February the AABJ&D Youth Department was very excited to take part in the 3rd-5th grade Community Wide Roller Skating! We had 30 participants from AABJ&D at the event and had a great time roller skating and hanging out with our friends from Etz Chaim, Suburban Torah, Ohr Torah and Congregation Israel. Overall the Youth Department has had a great year so far! We’ve incorporated new programs like the youth beit midrash program which allows 6th-12th grade students to bring their Judaic studies homework or a fun topic for a night of learning every Tuesday! Mishmash has also had a bit of a revamp with our new activity piece! Each Mishmash includes learning in addition to a fun activity that relates to the theme. Each grade has been invited to the youth house for a Shabbat lunch and we are excited to start a new round of Shabbat lunches in March! We are very excited to continue with our weekly, monthly and new programs with the rest of the AABJ&D community! Remember to take a look at the youth board in the social hall and join the AABJ&D Youth Facebook group for all the latest info!


Jr. Teens - Deena Goldman

- Max Kirshblum [email protected]

So far this year Junior Teens has had some incredible events! Our Friday night Onegs have been a staple of our monthly activities. With an average of twenty-five kids at each Oneg, we get to play games, chill with friends, hear some Dvar Torahs, and have great snacks. We were privileged to have Rabbi Yitz, the Rabbi intern, join one of our Onegs to bond and inspire our teens. Not only do the teens get to listen, but each teen is encouraged to share a Dvar Torah at least once. With the help of the Tuesday night Beit Midrash Program, and the advisors, the teens have many outlets to learn and create their Dvar Torah for the upcoming Oneg. We had some amazing events these past few months. The teens got to relax during movie nights, pizza making events, and ice cream parties. They got

to show their competitive side during game night, and their athletic sides side during open gym nights, ice skating, and our amazing Skyzone event. Their artistic side showed through during the first ever Junior Teens paint night program, each teen created a beautiful artwork to take home.

So far this year Junior Teens paired up with the youth department on a few walks to Daughters of Israel on Chag and Shabbat, as well as an amazing game morning at Daughters of Israel with the residences. This past month Junior Teens also paired up with the youth department to assist in creating crafts for kids in the hospital, through the organization Project Sunshine. We look forward to spending the rest of the year focusing on Chessed, as well as torah learning. We have so much to look forward to in the next few months, including a Junior Teens Leil Limud, the Youth department Purim Carnival, Shavuot all night learning, Melava Malka, and more! With plans coming together, the second half of the year is looking great!


Together on Tuesday - Debbie Druce, Coordinator

[email protected] 973-736-1407 x240

Greetings for a Happy Purim on Thursday March 24, and a Kosher and Sweet Passover Holiday beginning Friday night, April 22-Shabbat April 30. Tuesday, March 22 at 11:15 AM-“Three Holidays, Four Jewish Heroines” by Chaim Lauer, educational consultant and lecturer. In the spirit of upcoming Purim, Chaim will present a “surprise” lecture with at least one clue that Queen Esther and Purim will be featured. Tuesday, March 29 at 11:15 AM-“A Tour of the Galapagos Islands; the history and nature” by Linda Golovin, retired math teacher. Linda will share her experience visiting the Galapagos Islands made famous by Darwin who studied the island’s wildlife in the 19th century. She has amazing photographs of the unusual fauna and flora, as well stories to relate about the history and folklore of the island’s residents. Tuesday, April 5 at 11:15 AM-“History of Hassidism; Then and Now” by Moshe Schreiber, educator. Many of you may remember Moshe Schreiber when he frequently spoke for Together on Tuesday several years ago before making aliyah. We look forward to hearing Moshe speak on Jewish life and customs with his usual good sense of humor and insight.

Hella & Irwin Novick Hedy Falkenstein, Flo Miller, Cele Lowey

*Wednesday, April 6- Outing to Lester Senior Housing Community, Whippany, N.J., includes bus, lunch, tour of the community and musical program. You must make a reservation in advance by Tuesday, March 29. Maximum seating on bus-15. Call 973-736-1407x240. Meet at Congregation AABJD at 11:45am, return bus- 4:30. Tuesday, April 12 at 11:15 AM- Getting into the spirit of Passover- Intergenerational model Seder. Call for more details. Tuesday, April 19 at 11:15 AM-“Seder Secrets and Strategies: How the Haggadah Transports Us Through Time and Teaches Us to Survive” by Chaim Lauer. April 26-No Meeting –Passover Vacation All meetings take place in the Sephardic Wing at 11:15 AM. A light lunch follows the program. The complete program ends at 1:15pm. In case of inclement weather, call at 9am to check if program is cancelled. For further information contact, Deborah Druce, program coordinator at 973-736-1407x240.


Sisterhood News - Feigy Cantor

[email protected]

One of Sisterhood’s major goals is to fundraise for the shul. As such, we make a large annual pledge to the shul, which we raise by selling SCRIP and STORE PLAN. What are SCRIP and STORE PLAN? SCRIP is a gift certificate redeemable at several merchants, such as Shoprite, Jerusalem Pizza, Reuben’s Glatt Spot, and the WO Bake Shop. For every $ you spend, Sisterhood gets 5%. This is a win-win for all! Help us reach $1 million in sales! Just think of all the money you already spend at Shoprite. If all the shul families would purchase $100/week in Shoprite Scrip, we can easily reach our goal! Scrip is available in the shul office or you can email: [email protected]. STORE PLAN is a quick, easy, simple plan, designed to help raise money for AABJ&D. Every time you shop at any participating store, Sisterhood gets 5% of your sales. All you have to do is save your receipts and submit them to the shul office!! We, the hardworking women of Sisterhood, will submit the receipts to the stores, who will then donate money to the shul! The stores that participate are Cleaning Clinic, Emerald Cleaners, Party Wine (near Nosh Pit), Jay's Shoe Box, and Woxx. Meet our board: President: Feigy Cantor VP: Shana Falda Treasurer: Michelle Goldstein Scrip: Judy Birnboim and Michal Stauss Welcome Committee: Shira Hammerman and Batya Sharbat Secretary: Alisha Blugrind Store Plan: Julie Plotsker Bikur Cholim – Mica Usdan Please email us if you would like to help out or get involved!!!! We are looking forward to seeing you at our exciting events! If you would like to become more involved in Sisterhood, please contact Feigy Cantor at [email protected].

- Sura Rozenberg Camp Director

[email protected] [email protected]

Camp Shemesh Summer 2016

Purim is a wonderful time to have fun, dress up and just be silly. In America we get one day to do all of those things, but in Camp Shemesh we get to have fun the whole summer long. We are looking forward to an amazing summer and we hope your children will join in the fun. Applications can be found on the shul website. If you have any questions please contact camp director Sura Rozenberg at [email protected].


Congregation AABJ&D Shul Dinner Sunday Evening, May 8, 2016

at the Wilshire Grand Hotel

Pay tribute to our honorees by placing an ad in our commemorative Dinner Journal. For your convenience, you may email your ad to [email protected] or submit it online at www.aabjd.org, click on dinner banner. Please remit before April 10, 2016.

PLATINUM BENEFACTOR $ 25,050 DIAMOND BENEFACTOR $ 20,050 WHITE GOLD BENEFACTOR $ 15,050 EMERALD BENEFACTOR $ 10,050 TOPAZ BENEFACTOR $ 7,550 SAPPHIRE BENEFACTOR $ 5,050 OPAL BENEFACTOR $ 3,650 RUBY BENEFACTOR $ 2,550 GOLD BENEFACTOR $ 1,850 SILVER BENEFACTOR $ 1,050 GARNET BENEFACTOR $ 750 PEARL BENEFACTOR $ 550 JADE 1/2 page $ 450 QUARTZ 1/4 page $ 350 Dinner Couvert $ 250 Members attending for the first time $ 150

Benefactors $550 and above receive 2 complimentary seats and a full page in the Dinner Journal. Benefactors $5,050 and above receive 10 complimentary seats. Fair market value of the dinner: $75. Benefactors $550 and above who respond by.


ALL PRESIDENTS AND BOARD CHAIRS, Guests of Honor Throughout AAJB&D’s 50 years, its Presidents and Board Chairs have demonstrated tremendous commitment and devoted countless hours to create a thriving and growing Shul. As a community, we extend our heartfelt gratitude and Hakarot Hatov. Presidents: Morris Raven, z”l, David Lechter, z”l, Lee Kahn, z”l, Charles Smith, z”l, Dr. Zalman Schrader, Murray Laulicht, Irving

Miller, z”l, David Hersh, z”l, Arthur Dubroff, Harold Frank, Steve Schwartz, Chaim Silverman, Joel Daner, z”l, Irv Schwarzbaum,

Mark Goldberg, Larry Rein, Michael Luxenberg, David Cherna, Kenny Saibel, Jeff Braverman, Mitch Cohen and Larry Liebman

Board Chairs: Abraham Friedman, z”l, Herb Smilowitz, z”l, Arnold Blum, z”l, David Hersh, z”l, Lawrence Levitt, Marv Weintraub, Zal Shrader, Sam Pepper, Howard Feintuch, Martin Solomon, Mel Kassenoff, William Schulder, Joel Rich, Jerry Volk, Dr. David Lando, z”l, Bruce Buechler, Harvey Okin, Howard Weiser and Robin Amster

DORIS & JAY HARTMAN, Rabbi Alvin & Marylin Marcus Keter Shem Tov Award Doris and Jay Hartman moved to West Orange in 1986, when Stephanie was five and Allison was just two years old. Soon thereafter, Jay was recruited for the Shul’s Youth Department, the beginning of a 10 year involvement with the community’s young people. Jay worked as an advisor for Junior and Senior NCSY, and ultimately became the Youth Director, even as he carved out time for AABJ&D’s Board. Jay’s unique vision was to develop future leaders of the Jewish Community. Thanks to Jay, currently a psychotherapist in private practice, the Shul continued to grow as a social center for the community’s youth, impacting their lives in many positive ways. From the start, Doris, a legal assistant running a small law practice, was equally involved in Shul activities. Her contributions included creating and chairing the Youth

Department’s Mother’s Day fund raising projects and running synagogue blood drives. A member of the Board for several years, she participated on the Nominating Committee. She became involved with, and eventually headed the Israel Action Committee, running successful programing including major Yom Ha’atzmaut celebrations. Today, Stephanie is a child psychologist and Allison is a licensed clinical social worker. Both have learned from their parents the value of community and continue to be involved in helping and attending to other people’s needs. Doris and Jay are blessed with a wonderful son-in-law, Ilan Rosenrauch and 3 equally wonderful grandchildren Donny, Elisheva and Aliza. “Our community service was turned on by the power of a bonded community, united in the acceptance of our differences, where we raised each other’s children, and looked after each other in good and bad times. West Orange Ahawas Achim was, and is, a truly exceptional place - one big family where we received as much if not more than we gave.”

ALISHA & JERRY BLUGRIND, Young Leadership Award Alisha and Jerry Blugrind moved to West Orange in October 2009 and immediately made a huge impression on the AABJ&D community. Jerry, a native of Los Angeles, has played a leading role in the Shul’s Sustaining Membership drive and Kol Nidre appeal. He’s active on the chuppah committee, Men’s Club, Tuesday night learning, youth committee and executive board, among other roles in the Shul. Perhaps most important, Jerry, who works in accounting, has emerged as the Shul’s hugger-in-chief. Alisha, a Miami native who works at The Partnership for Jewish Learning and Life, has played an integral role in AABJ&D’s Sisterhood. With her parents as the example, she can be found lending a helping hand wherever one is needed; whether it was running the Shul’s scrip program, the Amit Purim

fundraiser, organizing events and programming in the West Orange community or just being a good friend. Their children, Hannah and Aiden, are active participants in the Shul’s youth program and are expert packers and deliverers for the Jewish Relief Agency. Together with their children, Jerry and Alisha have truly made AABJ&D their home while bringing a smile to the faces of everyone they encounter.

MARYLIN & RABBI ALVIN MARCUS, Legacy Award We are honored to celebrate the 48th Anniversary of Rabbi Alvin & Marylin Marcus’ dedication to our community. Their devotion and contributions to our Shul have spanned many generations and continue to leave an indelible imprint on our community. Their care and concern for all of our members has become a hallmark of our Shul. Their legacy of commitment and integrity has molded West Orange into a vibrant and growing community.


Did you know that there are many learning opportunities at AABJ&D? Besides the fact that our Beit Midrash is available daily from 6 AM- 11 PM as a place to learn Torah, we offer a roster of classes geared to all levels and interests.

West Orange Kollel Monday and Tuesday 8:15–9:45 PM Teenage boys and male adults are invited to learn

with the West Orange Kollel rabbis. For more infor-mation contact Steve Malech at [email protected].

Tuesday All women are invited to join Rabbi Zwickler for weekly Parshat Hashavuah class. Tuesday mornings at 10 AM.

It’s Coming! Torah Tuesdays @ AABJ&D Beit Midrash Night Torah Tuesday from 7:45-9:45 PM. Come spend the night learning in our Beit Midrash together with Rabbi Zwickler and Rabbi Sharbat. Bring your chavruta or we will help you find one. Classes will begin Tuesday , September 8. All women are invited to join Rabbi Zwickler for a weekly Parshat Hashavuah class. Tuesday night edition at 7:45 PM. Insights into Tefillah at 8:30 PM. Led by Rabbi Zwickler. Young professional Chaburah Shiur given by Rabbi Sharbat and Rabbi Zwickler at 9 PM. Rambam Hilchot Teshuva led by Joel Rich.

Wednesday Joel Rich will lead a class on the Sefer Hachinuch/ Minchat Chinuch on Wednesdays after the 7:30 AM minyan. Navi Shiur “Shmuel II: The Davidic Dynasty” by Rabbi Yosef Sharbat in the Sephardic Shul at 8:40 PM. Chavruta learning Library. The group is learning Sanhedrin at 8:45 PM.

Thursday Parsha Shiur given by Rabbi Sharbat in the Sephardic Shul at 8 PM. Gemara Shiur: Masechet Beitzah in the Beit Midrash given by Rabbi Zwickler at 8:30 PM.

Monday Women’s Tehillim Group at 7 PM at AABJ&D. Contact Ora Bloom at [email protected] for more information.


Sunday

* Join our expanding Sunday morning Gemara Chabura after the 8 AM minyan. We meet each week for 1 hour and cover about half an amud (page) per week. For beginners to advanced.

Sunday Morning Kickoff

Join Rabbi Zwickler and Rabbi Sharbat every other Sunday after the 8 AM Minyan for breakfast and a half hour shiur on Business & Contemporary Halacha. Sponsorship opportunities available.

Shabbat Day

Rabbi Zwickler’s Shabbat morning shiur: Journey through the weekly Parsha with Rabbi Zwickler, Shabbat mornings at 8:30 AM. After Hashkama Minyan, “Mishneh Brurah” (currently in hilchot brachot-tfila). Led by Joel Rich. “The Rav in Thought and Deed” takes place in the upstairs Beit Medrash 5 minutes after the 9:15 AM minyan concludes. We utilize the Koren/ Rabbi Soloveitchik edition siddur to gain insight into the specifics of our regular prayers based on the insights of Rabbi Soloveitchik. Approximately 5-7 minutes. Led by Joel Rich. Torah In 20: From after Sukkot to Pesach– Spend

20 minutes before you go home to infuse your soul with 20 minutes in Torah.

Journey through Pirkei Avot: Join Rabbi Zwickler on Shabbat afternoons throughout the summer one hour before Mincha in the main Shul for views on ethics and interpersonal relationships. Enjoy insights on this fascinating topic.

One hour before Mincha– Sephardic Halacha given by Rabbi Yosef Sharbat.

One hour before Mincha– Advanced Talmud (Maakot) led by Joel Rich.

Chevra Shas: The Chevra Shas of West Orange/Essex County was established in 1948 in Newark, as an ongoing, weekly Analytical Talmud Lecture given on Shabbat afternoons by alternating distinguished Rabbinic Torah scholars, mostly Holocaust survivors. This original group consisted of representatives of numerous pre-WWII European Yeshivos including Telz, Mirrer, Ponovezh and Baranovitch. In December, 1970, the group was reestablished in West Orange by Rabbi Elchonon Person (original student of Ponovezh, Lithuania Yeshiva). A rotation of Maggidei Shiur

continued till 1981, when Rabbi H. Witkin Z"L. became the sole Maggid Shiur until 2004. The Chevra Shas continues to study Talmud weekly at Congregation AABJ&D, approximately one hour before Mincha on Shabbat afternoons, led by Dr. Mordechai Witkin. No prior Talmudic background is necessary to participate in this study group, which is open to all who wish to join.

Limmud cont’d

Limmud cont’d on page 19


Mazel Tov to Lynda & Bob Novick on the birth of a granddaughter, Liat Yakira. Mazel Tov to parents Eliana & Zvi Rantz and to big brothers Izzy and Uriah.

Mazel Tov to Marcia & Jay Goldfischer and Roberta & Yitz Strauchler on the birth of their new grandson, Aharon Noam. Mazel Tov to parents Yael & Rabbi David Goldfischer and to siblings Leah, Netanel, Akiva, Yehuda and to all uncles, aunts and cousins.

Mazel Tov to Beth and Lee Hindin on the birth of a baby boy. Mazel Tov to parents Sara & Yechiel Mor and to grandparents Anette & Gil Mor and the entire family.

Mazel Tov to Lisa Rosenberg on the birth of a granddaughter, Samantha Ranana. Mazel Tov to parents Meg & Matthew Rosenberg and big brother Ben.

Mazel Tov to Helen and Bernie Neustadt on the birth of a grandson to parents Dr. Tova and Shmuel Schachter, Mazel Tov to siblings Rochel, Sara Baila, Mordechai, and Hadassah, and the entire Neustadt and Schachter families

Mazel Tov to Sofi Ehrlich on her Bat Mitzvah. Mazel Tov to parents Belinda & Reuben Ehrlich. Mazel Tov to siblings Tovah, Manny, and Emma Ray.

Mazel Tov to Libby & Larry Levitt on the Bar Mitzvah of their grandson Saadya Levi. Mazel Tov to parents Debby & Avi Levitt and to great grandmother Sarah Levitt and the entire Levitt Family.

Mazel Tov to Libby & Larry Levitt on the Bar Mitzvah of their grandson Saadya Levi. Mazel Tov to parents Debby & Avi Levitt and to great grandmother Sarah Levitt and the entire Levitt Family.

Mazel Tov to Rivkie & Yaakov Moradi on the birth of a grandson. Mazel Tov to parents Alex & Dovid Moradi and to big brothers Kobi and Akiva .

Mazel Tov to Robbin & Joel Singerman on the birth of a grandson. Mazel Tov to parents Abra & Yitz Mandel. Mazel Tov to grandparents Sylvia & Yosie Mandel and to great-grandparents Shirley Mandel and Roslyn & Harold Singerman. Mazel Tov to aunts and uncles, Esther, Rebecca and Yaakov, Avigayil, and Menachem.

Mazel Tov to Arlene & Sam Kaye on the Bar Mitzvah of their grandson Lior Kaye. Mazel Tov to parents Jeffrey & Sherrill Kaye and the entire family.

Mazel Tov to Arlene & Sam Kaye on the wedding of their granddaughter Shira Kaye to Benjamin Mann. Mazel Tov to parents Dena & Alex Kaye and Roslind & Michael Mann and the entire family.

Mazel Tov to Stan & Fran Urman on the birth of a granddaughter, Tal Rivka, in Moshav Ginzo, Israel. Mazel Tov to parents Marni & Tsachi Goldenberg and to big brother Dani Itai. Mazel Tov to the entire family.

Mazel Tov to Pnina & Mayer Popack on the birth of a granddaughter, Rivky. Mazel Tov to parents Yehuda & Leba Popack and big brother Zev. Mazel Tov to Aunt Jennifer and Uncle Avi. Mazel Tov to great grandmother Rita Freilick and great

Mazel Tov

grandfather Rabbi Isadore Popack. Mazel Tov to Sima & Rabin Rozehzadeh on the birth of a baby

girl. Mazel Tov to siblings Tzippy, Dovid and Ariella Bracha. Mazel Tov to grandmother Golda Rozehzadeh. Mazel Tov to the entire family.

Mazel Tov to Eileen & David Levitt on the birth of their granddaughter, Lily Nuloufar. Mazel Tov to parents Deena & Avi Shahrooz and siblings Isabella, Ayla and Nathan. Mazel Tov to great grandmothers Sarah Levitt and Thelma Peres and entire Levitt, Peres and Shahrooz families.

Mazel Tov to AJ Keiser on his Bar Mitzvah. Mazel Tov to parents Stephanie & Oren Keiser. Mazel Tov to sisters Allie, Nessa, Emily and Zoe. Mazel Tov to grandparents Bryna & Harold Keiser and Judy & Les Scheininger and to all the aunts and uncles.

Mazel Tov to Chaim Pizem on his engagement to Erica Schwitzer. Mazel Tov to parents Judy & Rubin Pizem and Ilana & Nate Schwitzer. Mazel Tov to sister Sophie.

Mazel Tov to Aaron Buechler on his engagement to Nediva Susman in Israel! Mazel Tov to parents Debbie & Bruce Buechler and sisters Rachel and Deena. Mazel tov to Nediva’s parents Barbara & Ed Susman and brother Aviad of Teaneck, NJ.

Mazel Tov to Moshe Goodstein on his Aufruf and upcoming marriage to Devora Pfeffer of Pittsburgh, PA. Mazel Tov to parents Joy & Dovid Goodstein and to siblings Mordecai & Leah, Benyamin & Chani, Shlomo & Nechma, Chaya, Sara and Yehuda. Mazel Tov to aunt and uncle Betty & Zvi Lando and the entire family.

Mazel Tov to Linda & Murray Laulicht on the engagement of their grandson Avi Hirt, the son of Pamela & Ari Hirt of Teaneck, NJ, to Estee Siegel, the daughter of Lisa & Larry Siegel of West Hempstead, NY.

Mazel Tov to Ilene Strauss on the birth of a grandson. Mazel tov to our former youth directors Tuvia Lwowski and Rahel Bayar, and to big sisters Maayan and Noa. Mazel tov to the grandparents Renee and Ezra Lwowski and Rabbi Steven Bayar.

Mazel tov to Ryan Small on his engagement to Talia Bender of Encino, California. Mazel Tov to parents Sandy & David small. Mazel tov to Talia's parents Donna & Ron Bender. Mazel tov to the siblings Jamie & Dena, Ashley, and Ari. Mazel tov to the grandparents Ruth Small, Sylvia & Sydney Orel and Adina & Ilan bender. Mazel Tov to the entire family.

Yasher Koach to the Rae Kushner Yeshiva High School wrestling team which tied for second place this past weekend in the Wittenberg yeshiva nationals. Mazel tov to Max Chosak who finished in 5th place, Brian Carmeli who finished in 3rd

place, Nadav Adler who finished in 2nd place and Jonathan Zughaft who finished in 1st place in their respective weight classes.

Mazel Tov to Moshe Safren on his engagement to Melanie Hes of Chile. Mazel Tov to parents Jewel & Robert Safren and Sandra and Carlos Hes. Mazel Tov to siblings David Serwitz, Shaina Kamman, Kayla Safren and Kevin Hes. Mazel Tov to the entire family.

Mazel Tov to Paula & Jonathan Blank on the birth of a grandson. Mazel Tov to parents Tommi & Daniel Rutta. Mazel Tov to grandparents Molly & David Rutta and to great grandmothers Judith Blank, Ruby Langer and Rose Rutta.


Mazel Tov, cont’d

Mazel Tov to the entire family. Mazel Tov to Jeremy Bloom on his Aufruf and upcoming

marriage to Michelle Willinger. Mazel Tov to parents Ora & Ira Bloom, Shari & Gary Weiss and David Willinger. Mazel Tov to siblings Daena , Joe, Lauren, Daniel, Jason & Reena. Mazel Tov to grandparents Gertrude Bloom, Marilyn Stadtmauer, Debbie & Jack Berger and Miriam & Leo Willinger.

Mazel Tov to Roland & Tova Chamama on the birth of a granddaughter. Mazel Tov to parents Shalom & Gila Chamama. Mazel Tov to great grandparents Kiva & Bernice Weinberger and Elise Chamama . Mazel Tov to aunts and uncles Sara & Reuven Blau, Atara & Moshe Bonrouhi, Michal, Yael, and Gabriella.

Mazel Tov to Ethan Lilianthal on his Aufruf and upcoming marriage to Rebecca Rakib. Mazel Tov to parents Gary & Rhonda Lillianthal and Pierre & Chris Rakib.

Mazel Tov to Atara Saibel on her upcoming marriage to Ari Gartenberg. Mazel Tov to parents Mindy & Kenny Saibel and Miriam & Michael Gartenberg. Mazel Tov to siblings Shira & Jason, Jen & Eric, Eliana, Eli, Chaim and Tamar. Mazel Tov to grandparents Debby & Stan Cohen, Bunny & Joel Saibel, Shevie Gartenberg and Deborah & Harold Polster. Mazel Tov to the entire extended family.

Mazel Tov to Drs. Roberta & Yitzchok Strauchler on the birth of a grandson, Maor Yonatan Strauchler. Mazel Tov to parents Dr. Gershon and Gabrielle Strauchler. Mazel Tov to grandparents Drs. Cary and Elizabeth Glass of Beverlywood, California. Mazel Tov to siblings Efrat and Allon Strauchler and to all the aunts, uncles and cousins.

Mazel Tov to Ellie & Freddy Langer on the birth of a granddaughter. Mazel Tov to parents Lily & Danny Langer, to Grandmother Marsha Poulson, and to Great Grandparents Ruby Langer and Happy & Jerry Botwinick.

Mazel Tov to Jill and Barry Geiger on the birth of a granddaughter. Mazel Tov to parents Josh and Lakey Silverman. Mazel tov to siblings Yosef and Shayna and to the entire family.

Mazel Tov to Rocky Lipsky and Eiran Warner on their upcoming marriage. Mazel Tov to parents Drs. Roz and Marvin Lipsky and Drs. Ellen Warner and Jeff Lipton. Mazel Tov to grandmother Ella Lipsky and grandfather Sam Warner. Mazel tov to siblings Miri Lipsky and Josh Schainker, Jodi and Michael Lipsky, Saar Warner-Lipton, Yossi Lipton and Nechama Lipton and the entire Lipsky, Warner and Lipton Families.

Mazel Tov to Atara Saibel on her upcoming marriage to Ari Gartenberg. Mazel Tov to parents Mindy & Kenny Saibel and Miriam & Michael Gartenberg. Mazel Tov to siblings Shira & Jason, Jen & Eric, Eliana, Eli, Chaim and Tamar. Mazel Tov to grandparents Debby & Stan Cohen, Bunny & Joel Saibel, Shevie Gartenberg and Deborah & Harold Polster. Mazel Tov to the entire extended family.

Mazel Tov to Drs. Roberta & Yitzchok Strauchler on the birth

of a grandson, Maor Yonatan Strauchler. Mazel Tov to parents Dr. Gershon and Gabrielle Strauchler. Mazel Tov to grandparents Drs. Cary and Elizabeth Glass of Beverlywood, California. Mazel Tov to siblings Efrat and Allon Strauchler and to all the aunts, uncles and cousins.

Mazel Tov to Ellie & Freddy Langer on the birth of a granddaughter. Mazel Tov to parents Lily & Danny Langer, to Grandmother Marsha Poulson, and to Great Grandparents Ruby Langer and Happy & Jerry Botwinick. ��Mazel Tov to Jill and Barry Geiger on the birth of a granddaughter. Mazel Tov to parents Josh and Lakey Silverman. Mazel tov to siblings Yosef and Shayna and to the entire family. ��Mazel Tov to Meyer Reichman on the birth of a grandson. Mazel Tov to parents Rachel & Randy Feder and aunt and uncle Yonit & Michael Sinnreich and cousins Ethan & Noah.

Mazel Tov to Tamara & Mark Sofair– Fisch on the birth of a grandson. Mazel Tov to parents Teri & Ari Sofair– Fisch and to big brother Avraham Yehuda. Mazel Tov to the entire Sofiar– Fisch and Cohen famalies.

Mazel Tov to Mrs. Bessie Kra on the Bar Mitzvah of her great grandson Akiva Yehuda Kra. Mazel Tov to parents Yossi & Amira Kra, grandparents Mady & Ethan Kra, great uncle David Kra and the entire Kra family. Mazel Tov to grandparents Gilla & H. Saltzman and great grandparents Rabbi & Mrs. Tobias Rothenberg.

Mazel Tov to Eli Novick on his Bar Mitzvah. Mazel Tov to parents Gail & Mitchell Novick and to siblings Roey and Tali. Mazel Tov to grandparents Helen & Irwin Novick. Mazel Tov to the extended Peikes, Novick, Edelcreek and Goldberg families.

Mazel Tov to Danielle Felderman on her Bat Mitzvah. Mazel Tov to parents Yonit & Howie Felderman and to siblings Sean, Ethan, Brandon and Isabella. Mazel Tov to grandparents Ayala & Marty Simon and Molly & Joel Felderman.

Mazel Tov to Alexandria Bell on her engagement to Elisha Mlotek. Mazel Tov to parents Harvey Bell, and Ms. Debra Bell and to siblings Dr. Perry Bell, Hadassah & Jeffrey Smulevitz and Avery Bell. Mazel Tov to Elisha’s parents Zalman & Debbie Mlotek and siblings Sarah Mlotek, Avram Mlotek and Yael Kornfeld-Mlotek.

Mazel Tov to Tamara & Mark Sofair– Fisch on the birth of a grandson. Mazel Tov to parents Teri & Ari Sofair–Fisch and to big brother Avraham Yehuda. Mazel Tov to the entire Sofair– Fisch and Cohen families.

Mazel Tov to Mrs. Bessie Kra on the Bar Mitzvah of her great grandson Akiva Yehuda Kra. Mazel Tov to parents Yossi & Amira Kra, grandparents Mady & Ethan Kra, great uncle David Kra and the entire Kra family. Mazel Tov to grandparents Gilla & H. Saltzman and great grandparents Rabbi & Mrs. Tobias Rothenberg.

Congratulations to Joseph Moskowitz and the entire TABC hockey team on winning the championship game this past Sunday.

Mazel Tov to former assistant Rabbi Dani & Ayala Rockoff on the birth of a baby boy, Binyamin Nadiv. Mazel Tov to siblings Shimon Yaakov, David Aryeh and Ora Hila.


JVS Offers a Broad Range of Job Counseling Services If you or someone you know is unemployed and looking for work, changing careers, re-entering the workforce, or is a recent college graduate and seeking a job for the first time, we can help. JVS Career Counseling & Placement offers high-quality career services—at no or low-cost to you. Services include: One-on-one career counseling and job placement, resume writing, interview training, mentoring, support groups, workshops, vocational testing, and more. For information, contact Dr. Meryl Kanner at JVS at [email protected] or at 973-674-6330 ext. 271

Please help keep our 69 year old Jewish veteran Post 538 active. Do not let out Jewish War Veterans down. They gave their lives to keep us safe. They need us now to help them in their aging years. Your support is a must. Due to advances age, deaths and relocations, the membership is Post 538 is critically low. Post 538 was organized in 1946 in Kearny, and until today continually supports Veterans as well as commu-nity causes which are as follows: 1. Selling poppies for which the monies raised are used for visitations to the Paramus Veteran Home on a monthly basis where Bingo is enjoyed by both men and women residents. Special gifts are also distributed to our Veterans. 2. Bus trips to casinos where the monies raised are also disbursed to our veterans in addition to Boys & Girls Scouts, veterans Museums and gifts of $500 an-nually to a deserving high school student in West Or-ange known as the “Olympaid Award” and other Veter-an Homes as needed. To acquaint you with out veterans Post and partake in our activates we are offering a two year FREE MEM-BERSHIP to all who apply. Wives welcomed to join Women's Auxiliary. Your involvement is critical. Please help. For more information contact Irwin Novick at 973-736-2988 or Herb Miller at 973-736-0849.

Jewish War Veterans

We extend our condolences on the passing of Effy Sanders beloved brother of Esti Morreale and Devory Heinrich.

We extend our condolences on the passing of Mr. Jack Block beloved father of Davida Stadtmauer.

We extend our condolences on the passing of Regina Wasser beloved mother of Fred Wasser.

We extend our condolences on the passing of Pearl Wittlin beloved mother of Lisa Rosenberg.

We extend our condolences on the passing of Yitzchak Levi beloved father of Moshe Levi.

We extend our condolences on the passing of Daniel Wimmer beloved son of Ellen & Howard Wimmer, and brother of Rebecca Hockley, Debra Hockley, and Ilana Jacob.

We extend our condolences on the passing of Eric Levenson beloved son of Eta & Mark Levenson.

We extend our condolences on the passing of Rafael Manspeizer beloved brother of Warren Manspeizer.

We extend our condolences on the passing of Miriam Fusman beloved mother of Ben Fusman.

We extend our condolences on the passing of Curil Rubin beloved father of Barry Rubin.

We extend our condolences on the passing of Joseph Tammam beloved father of Jaicky Tammam.

Condolences


5 Becker Farm Road Roseland, NJ 07068 Tel: (973) 994-2999 x141 Fax: (973) 994-1077

Marylin Marcus Email: [email protected]

Telephone 973-736-9700 Email: [email protected]

Dr. ROBERT M. KIRSCH

Optometrist

Office Hours By Appointment

Essex Green Plaza West Orange, NJ 07052

Short-Term Rehabilitation Center Skilled Long-Term Nursing Care Memory

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Senior Housing with Assistance Medical Transportation Services

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07052 Call for a Tour Today: 973-400-3307

www.DaughtersofIsrael.org

Tel: 207-214-0803 Fax: 201-384-2279 [email protected] Www.8thdaycaterers.com

Under RCBC Supervision Dovid Lisker owner

470 Bloomfield Avenue Verona, NJ 07044

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973-239-3205

POSEIDON CONSTRUCTION

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General Contracting Siding, Roofing, Windows, Concrete & any other car-pentry work PETER G. SERGIOU Tel: 973-731-0826 Fax: 973-736-9313 9 Garfield Avenue


There are so many things happening and ways to get involved. Below you will find a list of some of our Shul committees and chairpersons. Please feel free to contact them to either volunteer or inquire about their activities. If you have a special skill or talent that you would like to share or an idea that you would like to discuss, contact us at [email protected]. Adult Education—Harold Dershowitz

Plans and coordinates all classes, lectures, and scholar-in-residence programs.

Cemetery Committee— Judy Israeli: [email protected], Chaim Silverman: [email protected], The Shul: [email protected]

Chessed/ Bikur Cholim—Andrea Sultan, Debra Lando and Lorraine Gold. A branch of Sisterhood that coordinates visits to the sick & meals.

Chronicle—Esther Schultz, [email protected] Chevra Kadisha— Avi Laub, [email protected] Constitution Committee-Mel Kassenoff (chair)

and Harvey Okin (co-chair) Dinner Committee— Plans & coordinates the

shul’s annual dinner—many volunteer opportunities for all skills and talents.

Early Childhood—Erica Bank- [email protected]. Oversees our Nursery School and Summer Camp programs.

Endowment Committee-Rich Finkelstein, Sam Pepper, Larry Rein, Howard Weiser.

Finance Committee-Larry Liebman, Chaim Silverman, Mitch Cohen, Larry Rein

Fundraising-Larry Rein, [email protected] Hi-Tech-Robert Wagner, [email protected] ,

Maintains website and all hi-tech apparatus. Hospitality-Cindi Dresdner 973-243-2664.

Provides Shabbat hospitality to newcomers and visitors to our community.

House Committee-Marty Solomon & Larry Levitt- [email protected], [email protected] Keeps all our buildings in tip-top shape.

Inclusion Committee—Eta Levenson [email protected]

Kiddush Society— Helps provide the weekly kiddush and seudah shlishit. For sponsorship email Josh Cantor at [email protected] or call the shul office.

Legal Committee-Bruce Shoulson & Larry Levitt Marketing Committee-Judy Birnboim, Barbara

Flumen, Evan , Galatz, Barry Hammerman, Rivka Hindin, Zvi Kurlander, Alana Schwartz, Jon Waldstreicher, Andrew Yolin

Membership-Welcomes and facilitates integration of new members into our community.

Men’s Club-Adam Gindea, President- Provides & coordinates a variety of programs in support of the shul.

Outreach-Moshe Glick and Ira Bloom- Email: [email protected], Coordinates programs of interest to the non-affiliated.

Ritual Committee-Larry Schiffman. Email: [email protected], Oversees the conduct of religious services.

Scrip-Michal Strauss & Judy Birnboim: [email protected]

Security Committee-Bruce Schlanger—Email: [email protected]

Seniors Group-Together on Tuesday- Email: Debbie Druce Coordinator 973-736-1407 x240

Seniors Services Committee-Hilda Mann. Coordinates services offered to our aging members and their care-givers. Email: [email protected]

Sisterhood-Feigy Cantor—[email protected]. Provides & coordinates a variety of programs in support of the shul.

Tehillim -Ora Blum and Debbie Druce Youth-Shira Hammerman & Cheryl Munk- Email:

[email protected]/ [email protected]– Rachel & David Schenkler, Directors, [email protected]

Please note that all of our Board meetings are open to the membership.

Visit our website at www.aabjd.org and join our online membership list and receive timely email broadcasts. Drop us a line at [email protected] Rabbi Zwickler can be contacted via email at [email protected]


543 Cedar Lane Teaneck, NJ 07666

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201-801-0444

Butcher Take-Out Groceries

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The Chronicle Congregation Ahawas Achim B'nai Jacob & David 700 Pleasant Valley Way West Orange, NJ 07052 Tel. (973) 736-1407

Fax (973) 736-8006 Email: [email protected] Website: www.aabjd.org

AABJ&D Voice Mail Directory (973) 736-1407 As soon as the system greets you, enter the extension # of the person you wish to reach. Office 0 Rabbi Eliezer Zwickler 221 Rabbi Alvin Marcus 211 Rabbi Yosef Sharbat 216 Esther Schultz, Office 214 Naomi Yablon 212 Esterina Herman (bookkeeper) 213 Library 223 Nursery School Michele Glazer 215 2’s room 225 3’s room 222 4's room 217

Eruv Hotline 234 Schedule of Services 235 Seniors’ Program, Debbie Druce 240 Summer Camp 250

Eliezer Zwickler, Rabbi Alvin M. Marcus, Rabbi Emeritus Yosef Sharbat, Assistant Rabbi Larry Liebman, President

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