The Jewish State - April 9, 2010

Coming Attractions

THE JEWISH STATE
April 9, 2010

Thursday, April 8

Women's League of Conservative Judaism State Region. Maggie Anton, Author of Rashi's Daughters. Anton will speak at a dessert reception and book signing. Temple Beth O'r/Beth Torah, 111 Valley Road, Clark. $8 per person with pre-registration or $10 at the door. To pre-register, send name and phone number with check made payable to the Garden State Region-WLCJ by April 1 to: Sharon Barkauskas, GSR Treasurer, 9 Abingdon St, Morris Plains, N.J. 07950. Information Louise Cangelosi at lgc@comcast.net or Meryl Balaban, Garden State Region president, meryl4gsregion@aol.com.

55 Plus Club, a senior group that meets at Congregation Neve Shalom in Metuchen. Frank Matthews will speak about strategies to improve memory. Refreshments will be served. 250 Grove Ave., Metuchen. 7 p.m. Information, call Lorraine Lapidus at (732) 283-0535.

Saturday, April 10

Temple Sha'arey Shalom. "Jewtopia." The creators and stars of the off-Bradway smash hit comedy Jewtopia are bringing their show to Summit for one night only. The off-Broadway sensation Jewtopia opened in New York on Sept. 28, 2004, following a 16-month sold-out run at West Hollywood's Coast Playhouse, where it still holds the record as Los Angeles' longest-running comedy. At the conclusion of its off-Broadway run, Jewtopia played 1,079 performances, making it the longest running off-Broadway comedy in New York history. The show has also enjoyed long runs in Chicago, Florida, Toronto, Atlanta, and Sarasota. Summit High School, 125 Kent Place, Summit. 8 p.m. Reserved seating tickets are $50. General admission seats are $40. You can choose your seat location and order online at http://jewtopianj.tix.com or call (800) 595-4849.

Beth El Synagogue Sisterhood of East Windsor. A Night At The Races. Join in the excitement as you feel like you are at the track while enjoying actual races shot on video. Collect on your winning tickets and root for your favorites. 50 Maple Stream Road, East Windsor. 8:45 p.m. The cost is $25 per person and is open to all over the age of 18. Information, (609) 443-4454.

Congregation Beth Israel in Scotch Plains. Goods and Services Auction and "Spring Fling" social. The event, which is open to the community, will include a dessert buffet and open bar, and will feature both live and silent auctions as well as raffles. More than 100 auction items will be available, including: tickets to shows, museums and sporting events; gift certificates to N.J. and N.Y. restaurants; and autographed memorabilia. 18 Shalom Way (corner of Martine Ave.), Scotch Plains. 8:30 p.m. $18 per person if paid by April 8 (pre-paid guests will receive 5 free raffle tickets), and $25 at the door. Information, (980) 889-1830.

Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple. Avodah Dance Ensemble. Avodah ("service" in Hebrew) is dedicated to dance making and community building, fusing the art of dance with a strong sense of social service. Avodah's performances and interactive programs use dance, music, storytelling, and the study of text to build bridges with audiences of diverse traditions and cultures. This is the final event in Anshe Emeth's Ohavei Tarbut (Lovers of Jewish Culture) series. 222 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick. 8 p.m. Admission to all is $18 and there will be a reception after the concert plus the opportunity to meet the artists. Information, (732) 545-6484.

Sunday, April 11

Beth El Synagogue. Screening of "Kiselev's List." This award winning film depicts the miraculous story of how more than 200 Jews of a small town in Eastern Europe were saved. Guest speaker, Simon Chevlin, a survivor and one of the 200 Jews described in the film, will speak about the event and the film. 50 Maple Stream Road, East Windsor. 7 p.m. Free. Information, (609) 443-4454.

Jewish Heritage Museum of Monmouth County. "From Generation to Generation: The Enamel Art of Marilyn Druin and Erica Druin," a lecture/presentation given by Erica Druin. Also on hand to offer reflections on the artisits and their creations will be Dr. Geraldine Velasquez, professor of art and design at Georgian Court University in Lakewood, who has worked closely with and written about both artists. 310 Mounts Corner Drive, Freehold. 1-3 p.m. Free. Information, (732) 252-6990.

Congregation Beth Ohr. Special candle lighting ceremony. A special candle lighting ceremony with yellow candles (a highly visible symbol for keeping the flame alive) will be conducted by our spiritual leader, Rabbi Eugene Wernick. The color yellow recalls the badges Jews were forced to wear in Nazi occupied Europe. After this ceremony, the film "Defiance" will be shown. 70 Route 516 W., Old Bridge. 7 p.m. Information, (732) 257-1523.

Monday, April 12

Jewish Historical Society of Central Jersey. "Leonard Bernstein: The Political Life of an American Musician." Lecture by Professor Barry Seldes, professor of political science at Rider University. He also teaches courses on Musical Expression and Political Culture, and Cultural Politics. His book entitled "Leonard Bernstein: The Political Life of an American Musician" was published last year. Monroe Township Jewish Center, 11 Cornell Dr., Monroe. 10 a.m. Free and open to the public. Information call the JHSCJ office at (732) 249-4894.

Flemington Jewish Community Center. Bingo. Individual cash prizes can be up to $1,000, depending on attendance, so bring your friends. 5 Sergeantsville Road, (Route 523 South, across from the police station), Raritan. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. $10 per person. Information, (908) 782-6410.

Raritan Valley Community College. Artist Amy Fagin will talk about "Beyond Genocide," and display her work. Conference Center at the College's Branchburg Campus, 118 Lamington Road, Branchburg. 7 p.m. Information, (908) 526-1200, ext. 8524.

Tuesday, April 13

Young Israel of East Brunswick. Holocaust Memorial Day (Yom Hashoah). Guest Speaker will be Frida Herskovits, a survivor of three camps-including Auschwitz. Her topic will be "Surviving and Bearing Witness." 193 Dunhams Corner Road, East Brunswick. 8 p.m. Information call: Sandy Lang, (732) 613-0553 or Leah Weinberger, (732) 613-8797.

Jewish Historical Society of Central Jersey. Special reception and lecture in honor of its founder, Ruth Marcus Patt. Lecture by Douglas Greenberg, the executive dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at Rutgers University, entitled "If You Didn't Hate Me, Would I Still Be Jewish?: The Holocaust, Anti-Semitism, and Jewish Identity in Post-War America." Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple, 222 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick. The reception in Mrs. Patt's honor will begin at 3 p.m., and the lecture will be followed at 5 p.m. $36. Information or to make a reservation, call the JHSCJ office at (732) 249-4894.

Highland Park Conservative Temple-Cong. Anshe Emeth. Rabbi Eliot Malomet will present "Classic Texts That Open Your Heart." This series will explore texts that combine emotional and intellectual power that have the power to open our hearts. All are welcome. Refreshments. 201 South Third Ave., Highland Park. 8 p.m. No fee for members. $10 for series for non-members. Information, (732) 545-6482.

Wednesday, April 14

Hadassah's Southern New Jersey Region. Annual Education Symposium. Around the World Jewishly: A Multicultural Experience, will feature speakers who will share personal stories of Jewish life in Ethiopia, Egypt, India, Shanghai, and more. Forsgate Country Club, 375 Forsgate Dr., Jamesburg. Full day program begins at 8:45 a.m.

Sisterhood of Congregation Beth Ohr. Drs. Scott Beck and Joseph Cilea to speak on looking and feeling your best. Dr. Beck and Dr. Cilea, author of "101 Great Ways to Improve Your Health," will be covering such topics as: "how to get your own hormones to burn fat; how to safely get off medications; how to increase your energy; 5 secrets to living pain free." Congregation Beth Ohr, Route 516, Old Bridge. 8 p.m. Information, contact Marilyn Karlstein at (732) 536-5027.

Thursday, April 15

Werner Lecture Fund of Beth El Synagogue in East Windsor. Kosher Simplified Seafood. Part of a series of cooking classes titled "Generations in the Kitchen." The classes will be taught by a parent and their child. Classes include all supplies and culinary treats. 50 Maple Stream Road, East Windsor. 7-8:30 p.m. Fee is $10 per class or $25 for all three classes. Information or to register, (609) 443-4454.

Sunday, April 18

Monmouth Torah Links. An Evening of Sushi and Spirit, featuring Rebbetzin Esther Jungreis. Jungreis is a world renowned lecturer and has authored four best-selling books, including her latest release "Life Is A Test." Enjoy a lavish sushi buffet followed by an exciting presentation. The event will take place at the Marlboro Fire Company, 5 South Main St., Marlboro. Reservations suggested, $18 in advance, $25 at the door. Information, call (732) 377-9551 or email to info@monmouthtorahlinks.org.

East Brunswick Jewish Center and The Men's Club of East Brunswick Jewish Center. Mayor Mike Halfacre (R) will be speaking on Israel followed by a Question and Answer session. 511 Ryders Lane, East Brunswick. 9 a.m. Information call Steven Harkavy at (732) 613-1322 or info@ebjc.org.

Sisterhood of Congregation Beth-El. Fashion show and luncheon. Fashions will be from Dress Barn's spring collection and will be modeled by Sisterhood members. Several vendors will be there with jewelry (cash or check only), beauty, fitness, food and cooking products. 91 Jefferson Blvd., Edison. 1:30 p.m. $18. Checks can be made payable to: Sisterhood Congregation Beth-El and should be sent to Judy Yoblick at 8 Meredith Road, Edison, N.J. 08817. Please include names of all people attending as well as their phone numbers. Information, call Judy at (732) 985-3882.

Congregation Ahavat Olam and Beth Am Shalom. "Service for Holocaust Remembrance." Keynote speaker, Professor Judith Vogel. Professor Judith Vogel teaches at Stockton State College. Among her courses, she teaches one entitled, "Children of the Holocaust." The service will include prayers, poems, and a candle lighting by Holocaust survivors. Beth Am Shalom: 400 Carey St., Lakewood. 7 p.m. Open to the public; all are welcome. Information, (732) 363-2800.

Temple Emanu-El. A fascinating opportunity to hear John David Scalamonti speak about his conversion from Catholic Priest to the Jewish faith. His talk will be based on his book, "Ordained To Be A Jew." 100 James St. Edison. 3 p.m. Information, (732) 369-3270.

Mercer Bucks Community. Celebration of Israel's 62nd Birthday. Food available for purchase. Local synagogues and agencies. Vendors, Israeli art, Judaica, tie-dye. Israeli dancing. Live entertainment. Rider University, 2083 Lawrenceville Road, Lawrenceville. 2-6 p.m. Free. Information, (609) 219-9550.

Jewish Community Center of Middlesex County. "Broadway Bound." A string quartet featuring four musicians of the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra will focus on a variety of Broadway Show music. A dessert reception with the musicians will follow the performance. 1775 Oak Tree Road, Edison. 2:30 p.m. 8 until April 14 and $12 thereafter, space permitting. Register at the JCC. Information, call Sue Horwitz, (732) 494-3232 ext. 603.

Congregation Kehilat Shalom. Congregational and religious school open house. In addition to having the chance to chat with Rabbi Susan Falk, there will be opportunities to observe the religious school in progress as well as mingle with members over bagels and coffee. 253 Belle Mead–Griggstown Road, Belle Mead. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Information or to RSVP, call (908) 359-0420, email robin@ksnj.org, or visit www.ksnj.org.

The Jewish Heritage Museum of Monmouth County. Enameling workshop for children ages 8-13, led by Lauren Druin Griffin and Pat Heaney. Limited to 12 children, this workshop will be held at the Museum. 310 Mounts Corner Dr., Freehold. 2-4 p.m. 10 fee per child for materials. Prior registration is required, (732) 252-6990.

Henry Ricklis Holocaust Memorial Committee of Monroe. Annual Yom HaShoah Observance, honoring Ricklis member Ascher Goldstein for his heroic resistance activities during the war, as well as the bravery he showed during Israel's fight for Independence. His six grandchildren will read an account of his incredible life. Also featuring Drum Cadence and Survivor Processional and Menorah Lighting Ceremony. Keynote address by Marcia Ikonomopoulos, museum director of Kehila Kedosha Janina Synagogue and Museum. Monroe Township High School's Marasco Theatre, 1629 Perrineville Road, Monroe. 1 p.m. Free. Information, contact Nina Wolff at (732) 605-7811 or nwolff0325@aol.com.

Monday, April 19

Flemington Jewish Community Center. Bingo. Individual cash prizes can be up to $1,000, depending on attendance, so bring your friends. 5 Sergeantsville Road (Route 523 South, across from the police station), Raritan. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. $10 per person. Information, (908) 782-6410.

Tuesday, April 20

BUNWC-Tri County chapter of the Brandeis National Committee. Program on Global Warming. Tina Weishaus, a Global Warming educator, who was trained by former Vice President Al Gore, will present this program at the club's general meeting to be presented at the Hickory Corner Branch Library. 138 Hickory Corner Road, East Windsor. 2 p.m. Free. Information, (609) 298-4515.

Highland Park Conservative Temple-Congregation Anshe Emeth. Jenny & Joseph Lieberman Lectures. Rabbi Yakov R. Hilsenrath will be speaking on "Not Simply to Survive but to Thrive: The Secret of our Future Success in American Society." 201 South Third Ave., Highland Park. 8 p.m. Information, (732) 545-6482.

Wednesday, April 21

Jewish Historical Society of Central Jersey. "Leonard Bernstein: The Political Life of an American Musician." Lecture by Professor Barry Seldes, professor of political science at Rider University. He also teaches courses on Musical Expression and Political Culture, and Cultural Politics. His book entitled "Leonard Bernstein: The Political Life of an American Musician" was published last year. Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple, 222 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick. 10 a.m. Free and open to the public. Information call the JHSCJ office at (732) 249-4894.

Thursday, April 22

Werner Lecture Fund of Beth El Synagogue in East Windsor. Spring Vegetable Extravaganza. Part of a series of cooking classes titled ‘Generations in the Kitchen'. The classes will be taught by a parent and their child. Classes include all supplies and culinary treats. 50 Maple Stream Road, East Windsor. 7-8:30 p.m. Fee is $10 per class or $25 for all three classes. Information or to register, (609) 443-4454.

Friday, April 23

Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple. Shabbat service. Noah Aronson brings his hip and hot Shabbat music for worship and enjoyment. Aronson studied jazz piano and composition at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, while serving as artist-in-residence at Temple Beth Elohim in Wellesley, Mass. At Anshe Emeth, his music will be performed by Cantor Anna West Ott, Makhelat Anshe Emet (the Adult Volunteer Choir), and Shirei Emet (the teen choir). 222 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick. 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 24

Temple Sha'arey Shalom. Chai Noon Casino Night. This fun-filled evening will feature blackjack, craps, poker and roulette run by a casino company with professional dealers, chips, and tables. Players will compete for fabulous gifts baskets overflowing with prizes, goods and services. Saloon snacks and drinks will be served. 78 South Springfield Ave., Springfield. 7:30-midnight. General "Kin Folk" entry is $18 per person, admission only. "Posse" admission is $36 and includes $100 in chips. "Deputy" admission is $90 includes $350 in chips. "Sheriff" admission is $136 and includes $750 in chips and your name in the event program. "Governor" admission is $250 and includes $2,000 in chips, your name in the program and a table sponsorship. Information, www.shaarey.org.

Sunday, April 25

Werner Lecture Fund of Beth El Synagogue in East Windsor. India's Children of Israel featuring Johannes Corley. Ms. Corley was born in Bombay India and is a member of the Bene-Israel Jewish Community in India. She is currently the coordinator, Residue and Analytical Chemistry, IR-4 Headquarters, at Rutgers University . The topic will be ‘A 2000+ Year History of the Lost Descendants of Moses and Aaron.' 50 Maple Stream Road, East Windsor. 2 p.m. Admission is free. Information, (609) 443-4454.

JCC of Central N.J. Adult Child/Parent Brunch with Odessa Klezmer Band. This program is a great opportunity for families to learn about the JCC's Senior programming, enjoy time together and be entertained by the award-winning Odessa Klezmer band who will play a variety of Eastern European, German, Russian and Middle Eastern polkas and czardas. 1391 Martine Ave., Scotch Plains. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $6 for JCC members and $8 for community participants. Information or to RSVP contact Barbara Weisbart, (908) 889-8800 ext. 207.

Jewish Federation of Greater Middlesex County. Torah Writing program. Help the Jewish Federation of Greater Middlesex County write a Torah for those who risk their lives protecting ours. Military chaplains travel throughout combat zones to serve our troops. Federation wants to ensure they have a Torah to take with them. Join us in writing a "Torah for Our Troops". Pay tribute to the women and men in the military. Two locations and times: Jewish Congregation of Concordia, 1600 Perrineville Road, Monroe. 3 p.m. Also, Student Center of Rutgers University, 126 College Ave., New Brunswick.. 7 p.m. Information, (732) 432-7711, ext. 10.

Monday, April 26

Mamaloshen. Meeting. Another important topic of interest to the Jewish Community will be moderated by Rabbi Micheal Klein of Congregation Ahavat Olam. All are welcome. Refreshments will follow. Manchester Civic Center, 1 Colonial Dr., Manchester. 1 p.m.

Tuesday, April 27

Allen and Joan Bildner Center for the Study of Jewish Life. Jews, Converts, and Inquisitors in Medieval Spain: Recent Revelations. According to Paola Tartakoff, professor of Jewish studies and history at Rutgers University, it is less widely recognized that over one hundred years prior to the establishment of the Spanish Inquisition, Jewish converts were already being prosecuted for Judaizing, and Jews were already being accused of attempting to bring converts back to Judaism. Tartakoff will present new research on this "inquisition before the inquisition," focusing on the gripping case of a 14th-century convert from Aragon who accused a group of Jews of pressuring him to return to Judaism. Trayes Hall, Douglass Campus Center, 100 George St., New Brunswick. 7:30 p.m. Information, (732) 932-2033

The Highland Park Conservative Temple-Congregation Anshe Emeth. "Jenny & Joseph Lieberman Lectures." Rabbi Yakov R. Hilsenrath will be speaking on "Not Simply to Survive but to Thrive - The Secret of our Future Success in American Society." 201 South Third Ave., Highland Park. 8 p.m. Information, (732) 545-6482.

Wednesday, April 28

Congregation Bnai Tikvah. Susie Fishbein, the author of the "Kosher By Design" series, will be coming to Congregation Bnai Tikvah. She will be sharing some dairy delicacies with the group. Come for the demonstration and for the taste testing! 1001 Finnegans Lane, North Brunswick. 7:30 p.m.Tickets are $54 each.Information or to RSVP contact (732) 297-0696.

Thursday, April 29

Werner Lecture Fund of Beth El Synagogue in East Windsor. A Week Night Meal Can be Special. Part of a series of cooking classes titled ‘Generations in the Kitchen'. The classes will be taught by a parent and their child. Classes include all supplies and culinary treats. 50 Maple Stream Road, East Windsor. 7-8:30 p.m. Fee is $10 per class or $25 for all three classes. Information or to register, (609) 443-4454.

Jewish Family & Children's Service of Greater Mercer County. Beyond Time-Out: A Parenting Program. Dr. Beth Grosshans will present a 2-hour detailed teaching session for parents of children ages 3-11 years using her 5-step Ladder Program; a simple, yet highly effective five-step strategy that goes Beyond Time-Out all the way to effectiveness. New Jersey Hospital Association, 760 Alexander Road, Princeton. 7-9 p.m. $10 per person. Information or to RSVP, contact Debra Levenstein at (609) 987-8100 or debral@jfcsonline.org.

April 30-May 2

Highland Park Conservative Temple-Congregation Anshe Emeth. Historic dedication weekend celebration. This special event, "a time to rejoice and a time to give thanks" will include Kabbalat Shabbat Services followed by a festive Shabbat meal on Friday, April 30 as well as a Congregational Oneg Shabbat following dinner. Shabbat services on May 1 will include a special symposium presentation under the leadership of Rabbi Eliot Isaac Malomet, congregational rabbi. Kiddush will follow services. The special dedication program will take place on Sunday, May 2 at 9:30 a.m. South Third Ave., Highland Park. Information or reservations, (732) 545-6482.

Monday, May 3

Monday, May 10

Tuesday, May 11

JCC of Central NJ. Active Adults trip to the Federal Reserve Bank. The tour, which does not require a lot of walking or stair-climbing, includes an introduction to the banking system of the U.S. and a look in the Gold Vault. During the tour, guests will have the opportunity to observe the beautiful architecture of the bank. The trip also includes an hour classroom experience during which participants will learn more about the Federal Reserve System and its role in the U.S. economy. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. $60 for JCC members and $70 for community participants. The cost includes an international buffet lunch at the U.N. Delegates Dining Room. For an additional fee, participants may choose to tour the U.N. after lunch. Information or to RSVP contact Barbara Weisbart, (908) 889-8800 ext. 207.

Sunday, May 16

Beth El Synagogue of East Windsor. Lag b'Omer Picnic. Enjoy a BBQ, boating, zip line, arts and crafts, softball game and more. Eagle River Day Camp, 1470 Perrineville Road, Monroe. 12-4 p.m. $11 per person. RSVP no later than May 10 at (609) 443-4454.

Sunday, May 23

Congregation Etz Chaim, Monroe Township Jewish Center. A Day of "Defiance." Robert Bielsky, son of the central character of the movie "Defiance, will be the guest speaker. 11 Cornell Ave., Monroe.10:30-11 a.m., Registration coffee and tea available); 11 a.m.Showing of film "Defiance – The Bielski Partisans. 1:30 –2:15 p.m. dairy lunch; 2:30 A conversation with Robert Bielsky. Contribution $10 (members) and $15 (non-members) For reservations or information, (609) 655-9056 or e-mail harriet9243@gmail.com.

Tuesday, May 25

Toms River Hadassah at Congregation B'nai Israel. A chocolate fantasy evening. Decadent dairy desserts and entertainment by the raconteurs. 1488 Old Freehold Road, Toms River. 7:30 p.m. $25. RSVP or Information, Susan Jacobs (732) 279-0443 or Sandy Ottenberg (732) 505-5953.