CBT Hakol December 2025

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Congregation B’nai Tikvah

www.bnaitikvah.org

HaKol: The Voice of CBT The JCC of North and South Brunswick

!‫חג שמח‬

Chag Sameach!

December 2025

www.bnaitikvah.org

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Hakol - The Voice Page 3

Hakol is the Hebrew word for The Voice, and while this publication is the voice of Congregation B’nai Tikvah, it is not intended to be only one-way.

Please consider submitting opinions, letters, articles, poems, and pictures to be considered for future publications. In the case of photos, please do not send low-res pictures or thumbnails. Articles are subject to proofreading changes.

Please submit all materials to Lesley Note: All material will be credited upon publication; anonymous submissions cannot be considered.

Please Support our Advertisers!

Advocacy & Navigation Partners Alexander Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning AnaSen Health Arlen Law Firm (Melissa Kessler) Law Office of Robert Aufseeser Century 21 Charles Smith Agency (Scott Kessler) Cinnaholic Clinton Monument Co. Cross Country Paving & Masonry (Lawrence Benson) Fred & Murry’s Sergio Fuentes (Home Improvement Contractor) Indulge by Chari Martine, Katz, Scanlon & Schimmel (Diana Schimmel Avena) Mobility Memory Care of North Brunswick Mobility Family of Companies Morgan Stanley (Mark Sherman) Mount Sinai Memorial Chapels Praetorian Agency RE/MAX (Mark Jiorle)

Inside Cantor’s Corner

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Presidents’ Podium

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Rabbi’s Desk

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Cantor’s Corner

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Monroe Minyan

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USY

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Guest Column

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Director’s Digest

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Men’s Club

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Sisterhood

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Know Our Advertisers

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Social Action

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Bikur Cholim

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Needy Families Program

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Birthdays

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November Calendar

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Member News

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Donations

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Schedule of Services

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Congregation B’nai Tikvah • 1001 Finnegans Lane • North Brunswick, NJ 08902 732.297.0696 • www.bnaitikvah.org

www.bnaitikvah.org

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Presidents’ Podium Marty Abschutz & Ruth Anne Koenick

At B’nai Tikvah, we have been extremely fortunate to have been led by just a handful of Rabbis over the past 40 plus years. For those of you who have been here from the beginning, thinking of Rabbi Warmflash may bring back memories of our earliest days. Those who joined later may remember Rabbi Eligberg. And for the members who have been at B’nai Tikvah for 20 years or less, Rabbi Wolkoff is the only Rabbi that you’ve known here, a familiar and comforting presence.

Saying goodbye to a Rabbi who has been with us for nearly two decades is no small matter. It is natural—and completely understandable—that members are experiencing a wide range of emotions. Every feeling is valid. Please know that we welcome your thoughts, concerns, and reflections.

There are also a few things that we would like to share with you, our fellow members: First, this decision was not taken lightly. The Board devoted extensive time, care, and heartfelt deliberation to the process, fully aware of the emotional and practical impact it would have on our community. In the end, the Board reached a consensus and believes that this decision serves the long-term best interests of the Congregation.

Second, although Rabbi Wolkoff’s contract concludes next July, that does not necessarily mean his relationship with our Synagogue will end. As we shared previously, the Executive Committee will be speaking with the Rabbi regarding the possibility of Emeritus status. Should he decide to remain in the area— and should we come to a mutually agreeable arrangement—his connection to B’nai Tikvah could continue in a meaningful way.

Third, while the conclusion of Rabbi Wolkoff’s tenure marks the closing of an important chapter in our history, it is far from the end of our story. We invite every member to help shape the next chapter. Though many years have passed since our last Rabbinic search, this is a path we have successfully navigated before. We are already taking the necessary steps to prepare for our upcoming search.

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Presidents’ Podium (continued from previous page) Two things can be true at once: we can feel genuine sadness as we prepare to say goodbye to a beloved Rabbi, and at the same time feel hope and anticipation as we look toward welcoming our next spiritual leader and the fresh perspectives they may bring.

Whether you have been a member for decades or are new to our community, your involvement in the journey ahead is vital. A Synagogue is made up of many parts, but none is more essential than an active, caring, and engaged membership. Thank you for being part of our community.

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Rabbi’s Desk Rabbi Robert Wolkoff

Be Like Judah Maccabee As we celebrate the holiday of Chanukah, we think about miracles. The miracle of the oil lasting for 8 days immediately comes to mind. But equally as miraculous was the victory of a small group of Jews, led by Judah Maccabee, over an army that had conquered the known world.

I thought of this when I recently gave a lecture on the new forms of antiSemitism. Someone asked, with a hint of despair, if there is anything we can do to fight back? And it occurred to me that the question was misplaced.

What matters is not what anti-Semites think. What matters is what Jews do.

And this is a principle that can be expanded in many ways. We often hear people say, “I support the right of Israel to exist.” Or, “I support Israel’s right to defend itself.”

Mazel tov. Have you ever heard anyone say, “I support the right of Sweden to exist”? Or, “I support the right of Ukraine to defend itself?” Of course you haven’t, because such rights are inalienable. To make such a statement regarding Israel is to imply that there is a legitimate issue, and there is a reasonable argument to be made on both sides of the issue. To participate in such a discussion is folly, and dangerous folly at that. It is as useless as debating a Holocaust denier.

And here we can take a lesson from Judah Maccabee. He did not show up at Antiochus’ court with some well phrased talking points to convince the king of the merits of Judaism. That would be fighting anti-Semitism. Instead, Judah Maccabee killed Antiochus’ generals and crippled his army.

That’s fighting anti-Semites.

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Rabbi’s Desk (continued from previous page)

I am of course not suggesting that we kill anyone. But we don’t have to. What I am suggesting is that we aggressively use every tool in our toolbox. We should call out anti-Semites. They can say whatever hateful things they want to say. It’s a free country. And we can, and must, take their words seriously. We must expose them; make sure potential employers know who they are hiring, especially if they work in fields like medicine, education, law, or psychology; protest against organizations (colleges, for example) that harbor them (and for heaven’s sake, cut off contributions to such institutions), and use whatever legislation is available—Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, for example, or violations of the IHRA definition of anti-Semitism, to make the institutions, and the administrators of said institutions, pay the price. If antiSemites break the law, we should use the rule of law to convict them of hate crimes, and if appropriate, deport them. They have no right to infest our society.

Is there no place for education? Of course there is, and we should make our best efforts to address the oldest hatred with facts. But education is for those who can be educated, those whose minds have not already been poisoned. And pretending that you can educate the uneducable is not an act of nobility. It is a dangerous delaying tactic to avoid doing what must be done. Laying it on the line when it comes to antiSemites may be hard, for a lot of reasons. But Rabbi Wolkoff’s rule of thumb number one is this: the hard thing to do is usually the right thing to do.

Judah Maccabee knew it. We should follow his example.

-- Rabbi Robert L. Wolkoff

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Cantor’s Corner Cantor Bruce Rockman

It’s Time to Celebrate!

Gesher Tzar M’od- “The World is a Narrow Bridge”. Rabbi Baruch Chait, an American who made aliyah to Israel, composed this song adapting the words of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, founder of Hassidic Judaism, for Israeli soldiers in 1973 during the Yom Kippur war.

Kol ha’olam kulo, gesher tzar m’od-The whole world is a narrow bridge-Lo lefached klal-The main thing is to have no fear at all. These words became an anthem for our people.

When we were young, we waited in joyous anticipation for Chanukah to arrive.

We’d celebrate the miracles with family and friends (still do), eat latkes, light candles, spin dreidels, and sing songs of celebration, hope and triumph. The gifts that we received then and now, like our neighbors, have been an equalizer of sorts, ignoring the intention of both holidays, helping us cope with a narrow bridge, tension and differences.

We own a rich tradition, finding comfort in the traditions of the culture in which we, you and I, have thrived. It is natural and I think it’s fine if we elevate our legacy and by all means respect others’ traditions.

Chanukah is a holiday for us to celebrate our recognition of G-d’s thousands-ofyears-old promise, once again renewed between the Jewish people and G-d; the promise of the establishment of a great nation, the gift of the land of Israel, and the promise that a special descendant (the Messiah) would bring blessings to all nations.

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Cantor’s Corner (continued from previous page)

Our modern history affirms that we must always be proactive, to do our part in partnership with G-d. The purpose of the narrow bridge is that its narrowness leaves little room for error, making life, at times, difficult to navigate. We must persevere and do our best to make our entire world a better place.

We celebrate Shabbat, holidays and happy occasions. We remember our history; the sacrifices and our losses, finding meaning and inspiration at both happy and sad occasions. Now, Chanukah, a great time for joyous celebrations inspired by our great memories.

Happy Joyous Chanukah!

Worship the Lord with Gladness and Joy! Cantor Bruce Rockman Mark Your Calendars for all of our Chanukah events and celebrations including Chessed for Chanukah, when we deliver our home-made sweets to our local first responders and those who must work on their holiday. We’ll gather in the social hall on Thursday, December 25th at 10am.

My Jewish Learning is a wonderful resource for practical Jewish information. myjewishlearning.com/article/hanukkah-101/ is a great way to learn or refresh your knowledge before Chanukah, including prayers, customs, and recipes.

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Hakol Advertising Interested in advertising in our monthly Hakol? Know someone who might be? There are various options for advertising in our monthly newsletter, and by advertising in Hakol, your ad is also featured in our Thursday weekly announcements, as well as on our advertisers page of our website, and linked to your own business’ website. For details, options, pricing, please contact the CBT Office at 732-297-0696.

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USY! USY Advisor Sydney Sookerman

I am excited to share that some of our USYers spent over two hours on Sunday, November 16th, writing heartfelt, handwritten notes to many of our seniors—especially those in our CBT community who live alone—wishing them a Happy Thanksgiving and a Happy Chanukah.

In addition, we assembled more than 30 care packages that our USYers and I will be hand-delivering over the next couple of weeks. Each package includes a handwritten note, Chanukah candles, snacks, water, and chapstick—just a small gesture to brighten the days of CBT members who may appreciate a little extra love and warm wishes this season.

A huge thank-you to Lesley for helping me organize this meaningful project!

Have a wonderful week—and don’t forget to get those donut orders in!

Please help spread the word.

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Guest Column Felice Ciccione

This past winter, my son asked me when there would be another synagogue mitzvah day. He was very disappointed when I told him that I didn’t know.

I knew that at the synagogue mitzvah days he really enjoyed making the snack bags for kids to be brought to the food bank. While we were talking, he asked if we could do the project on our own. (It was a proud mama moment). Of course I said yes.

While Josh and I shopped for treats to put in the bags I used the process as teaching moments. We discussed the price of the items, looking for sales and comparing costs. We talked about families who don’t have enough money to buy food and why the snack bags are such a good idea. He understands that if there isn’t enough money for day to day meals, treats are something that kids definitely wouldn’t get.

So we packed the snack bags, put an animal sticker on each one (for fun), and brought the bags to the food bank. (Knowing that many families deal with food insecurity and seeing it are two different things.) When we got to the food bank, there was a long line of cars and a full parking lot. We walked up with our bags and spoke with two of the people who were working there. Josh explained what we had brought and the food bank workers thought this was a wonderful idea. Josh was so happy that they liked the idea that he said we would come back the next week with another batch of snack bags. At this point, I jumped in and said we would commit to monthly visits, but we could not commit to weekly visits.

We have stuck to this commitment and we continue to go to the food bank each month. They now know us there and have told us that kids now ask for and look forward to the snack bags.

The food bank is never empty when we go there. Each time I try to impress upon my son the hardships people face and the importance of what we are doing.

Hopefully we are bringing smiles to the families because we always have smiles ourselves.

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Director’s Digest Executive Director Lesley Lewkowicz

What is a synagogue?

If you open a dictionary, the definition is simple: “A building where a Jewish congregation meets for religious worship and instruction.”

But anyone who has stepped inside a synagogue knows it is far more than a building.

A synagogue is a gathering place where voices come together — in prayer, in learning, and most importantly, in community. It is where lives intertwine. It is where our children take their first steps into tradition, where families celebrate milestones, and where friendships form and endure for decades. Within the walls of Congregation B’nai Tikvah is a circle of caring, devoted members who are always looking out for one another.

Let me share just a few examples: Our Bikur Cholim Committee works quietly and compassionately, ensuring that the needs of our elderly, sick, and vulnerable members are met with dignity and care.

Our Social Action Committee, including our Needy Family Program, embraces the mitzvah of helping others — hosting food, clothing, and hygiene drives; creating opportunities for seniors to socialize; ensuring that those who are struggling, both within and beyond our congregation, have what they need for the holidays and throughout the year.

Our Ritual Committee, which includes our dedicated shiva minyan volunteers, supports grieving families with unwavering commitment.

They show up without hesitation and without expectation of thanks — only love.

Our Sisterhood and Men’s Club enrich our community with social and educational programs open to all, members and non-members alike.

They honor the hard work and dedication of everyone who makes B’nai Tikvah the warm and welcoming place it is.

And of course, our energetic WAM (Ways and Means, Activities, and Membership) group brings joy to the calendar year after year — from monthly themed Shabbat dinners to our annual Gala, from pub crawls and winery visits to bowling nights, trivia, talent shows, and more events than can fit in one article.

More than any physical structure — more than the walls, the windows, or even the leaders past and future — it is you, the congregants, who are the true foundation of our synagogue. You are the heartbeat that keeps our community vibrant.

You carry the melodies forward. You sustain our traditions. You build the relationships that transform a building into a spiritual home.

A synagogue is, above all, the soul of its people.

And it is the people who give it life.

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Men’s Club Upcoming Calendar Monday, Dec. 1st - Monday Night Football (NY Giants vs NE Patriots) BYOB and favorite lounge chair. Men’s Club will provide nosh items! Game time 8:15pm/Minyan at 7:30pm Sunday, December 7th – Annual NNJR Man and Youth of the Year celebration held at CBT. Starting at 1pm at CBT. See full page/poster for details.

Sunday, January 11th – Minyan, Meeting and breakfast.

Presentation by Barry Safeer – “Jews in Antarctica”. Along with Penguins, Whales, Seals, and more Penguins.

Sunday, February 8th - World Wide Wrap. Led by Rabbi Wolkoff and Cantor Rockman, come lay Tefillin with our brothers AND Sisters at CBT and world-wide as both FJMC and Sisterhood/Women’s League partner. Tefillin are intended to fulfill a biblical commandment and to symbolize the connection between Hashem and the Jewish people.

November 2nd Men’s Club Meeting Pictures

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Classical Caterers Inc.

1001 Finnegans Lane • North Brunswick • NJ 08902 (732) 297-6444 • (732) 297-3666 Fax www.classicalcaterers.com • E-mail • Evan@Classicalcaterers.com The Finest In On and Off Premise

Men’s Club Man & Youth of the Year Brunch Menu THE JAPANESE COLLECTION A beautifully displayed assortment of Maki, Nigiri, and Sashimi Sushi Served with Soy Sauce, Wasabi and Pickled Ginger Belgium Waffle & French Toast Bar With Cherry & Blueberry Toppings, Maple Syrup Whipped Cream, Chocolate Sauce Falafel Bar With Israeli Salad, Hummus, Babaganoush, Pita & Chips Shakshouka Hot Dishes Petite Potato Pancakes Spinach & Cheddar Frittata Cupcakes Plank Salmon with a Pommery Mustard Honey Glaze Penne Vodka with Chopped Tomatoes & Peas Penne Pesto with Chopped Grilled Vegetables Nova/Lox Platters Tuna Salad, Egg Salad with Scallion, Whitefish Salad Lettuce / Tomato / Onion Spring Salad with Grilled Pears, Craisins etc..

Lettuce, Tomato, Onion & Cucumber Vegetable and Plain Cream Cheese and Butter Assorted Bagels, Bialys and Breads, *GF Bagels* Desserts Apple Crisp & Warm Brownie with Vanilla Ice Cream Brownies, Blondies, Black & White Cookies, Rainbow Squares Bobka, Assorted Mini Pastries Sugar Free Dessert, Gluten Free Dessert Soda, Juice, Coffee & Tea Station Bar Bellini, Bloody Mary & Mimosa

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Sisterhood Corner

by Marci Abschutz, President

Carole King is in the House On November 16, CBT Sisterhood held our Paid Up Membership Brunch, catered by our very own Classical Caterers. Over 50 women got together to eat, schmooze, shop at the Gift Shop and enjoy a presentation by Larry Wolfert on “Carole King.”

Larry Wolfert has a passion for folk music, and has kept it alive in the central NJ area. For the past several years he has been an instructor for OLLI-RU (Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Rutgers University.)

His presentation of her career included samples of her “greatest hits”, including the lyrics so we were all able to sing along. Though, truth be told, most of us didn’t need the lyrics to sing!

I thank Gale Dillman and Teresa Samtur for organizing, planning and decorating. Felice Ciccione and Nancy Asher-Shultz ran the gift shop and Nessa Madison, who organized the drive for food and baby goods to be distributed to those in need.

Finally, I want to thank Cantorina Stacey Rockman for her inspiring D’var Torah.

Marci Abschutz Sisterhood President

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CBT Sisterhood - News From Israel Submitted by Israeli Affairs

We don’t often read headlines like this… “Israeli-American Nobel laureate says his award is secondary to hostages’ safe return, but it appeared in the Times of Israel!

Joel Mokyr, an Israeli-American economic historian, missed the notification of his being awarded the Nobel Prize in Economics because he was glued to his screen following the news of the release of Israeli hostages from Gaza.

You can read the article here: Israeli-American Nobel laureate says his award is secondary to hostages' safe return | The Times of Israel Marci Abschutz Sisterhood President

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Get to Know Our Advertisers!

Lesley Lewkowicz, Executive Director

This month’s featured advertiser is Cross Country Paving, a wonderful local business that we at CBT have had the pleasure of working with and getting to know over the past few years.

I first met Larry Benson and his mom, LouAnne, when we here at B’nai Tikvah were looking to do some repair work in our parking lot and I was gathering quotes. Enter Cross Country Paving. My first impressions? They were incredibly nice, down-to-earth, and approachable. They responded quickly to my inquiry, took the time to explain everything clearly, and gave me the most honest and accurate quote of the three I had received. From the very beginning, it was clear that integrity and personal service are at the heart of how they do business.

Based right here in Cranbury, Cross Country Paving is a family-owned and operated company that has been proudly serving Middlesex County and the surrounding areas for over 20 years. They handle both commercial and residential paving projects, offering services such as driveway installations, parking lot repairs, sealcoating, and asphalt maintenance. Whether the job is big or small, their commitment to quality work and customer satisfaction shines through in every project.

Beyond their professionalism, what stands out most about Larry and LouAnne is their genuine connection to the community. Since that first encounter, Cross Country Paving has continued to support Congregation B’nai Tikvah, not only by advertising in our monthly Hakol newsletter but also by taking out ads in our annual Gala Tribute Book.

Their continued support reflects the same honesty, reliability, and sense of community that first made them stand out to us.

We’re so grateful to have Cross Country Paving as part of our extended CBT family and encourage anyone in need of paving or repair work—whether for a home driveway or a business parking lot—to give them a call. You’ll be glad you did!

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Social Action Reflections & News Laura Waksman

On November 5th, Elijah’s Promise Community Kitchen in New Brunswick served 3663 free meals, the most in its 36-year history. That’s in one day.

When state officials identified North Brunswick as a town of concern for food insecurity when schools were closed because of the state teachers’ convention, Elijah’s Promise’s director, CBT member Michelle Wilson jumped in and sent their food trucks with meals to North Brunswick High School.

And on November 14th and 15th from Friday 8 AM to Saturday 8 AM, it held its first 24 hour volunteer event, Sandwichfest, with the goal of making 8,000 sandwiches. Yes, that’s 3 zeros!

Are you inspired by their drive and ingenuity? So what will we at CBT do to help our neighbors? Due to the generosity of our members to the Social Action fund, we are positioned to provide assistance, even if on a smaller scale.

Send me your creative ideas for feeding the greater community, involving our children and adults working as a team, demonstrating our Jewish obligation to repair the world (Tikun Olam).

Please email me at my new address: socialaction@bnaitikvah.org.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Laura Thank yous Many thanks to Shelly Wistreich for taking over the running of Chaverim with attention to detail in my absence last month, and to Steve and Andrea Katz for serving lunch at Chaverim, to Dot Cohen for creating her floral centerpieces, and to Steve Chernela for taking photos. (continued on following page)

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(continued from previous page) Todah rabah to Carol Eisenberg and Jay Scheuer for bringing the food donations to the JFS kosher food pantry, and to all the members who have donated food. The need is great and so is your giving!

Due to the generosity of those who have given to the Jodi Wexler Marcou Social Action Fund, we were able to help some of our members in need last month, and make a donation to Elijah’s Promise toward the purchase of men’s undergarments.

What’s Happening?

We collect for the JFS Kosher Food Pantry year-round, so please keep your donations coming. Drop them in the wicker trunk on the floor just a bit down the hall from the office, just before the blue double doors.

CHAVERIM (60 plus) SAVE THE DATES December 23, 2025, 12-2 at CBT: A Bissel Yiddish! With Al Davis Come join Al Davis, learn a bissel (little) Yiddish and be very happy! Al is the past president of the Northern NJ region of the Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs (FJMC), and moderator of 2 FJMC free online Yiddish groups. He says our people need to reconnect with our mamaloshen (mother tongue). He’ll tell stories, sing songs, share how he came to Yiddish, (you share too), and well, teach you Yiddish!

January 27th, 12-2:15 at CBT: CBT SINGO!- that’s Bingo, but with Music Come play Bingo with a twist! Instead of numbers on your Bingo card, there will be song titles. You will hear 15 seconds of a song, and search for the song title on your CBT SINGO card. Feel free to hum or sing along.

FOUR VOLUNTEERS NEEDED January 27 to assist with playing Singo at Chaverim from 12:45- 2:15.

MITZVAH DAY IS BACK- May 3rd. All members are invited to help plan for and volunteer at Mitzvah Day- our organized day of doing good. Be on the lookout for meeting dates and more details.

You can reach me at my new address: socialaction@bnaitikvah.org Laura

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Chaverim Program Balance Exercises October 21, 2025

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Bikur Cholim: Durable Medical Equipment Often when surgical patients return home from the hospital or rehab, there is a need for medical equipment to assist in their further recovery. The Bikur Cholim committee, through the generosity of members who no longer have a need for these supplies, has a plentiful stock of such items available for loan to CBT members at no cost. This inventory, named in memory of Mark Kasdin z”l, former CBT President and a mainstay in the rejuvenation of our committee 15 years ago, is pictured below. It includes wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, canes, bedrails and a knee scooter. Ask your medical provider during pre-op planning what equipment might be needed and contact us at bikur@bnaitikvah.org or call Lesley in the office. We may even be able to deliver it to your home. Also note that if there is any other durable medical equipment not in this inventory that might be needed, please contact us as we may know a source for it.

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IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR…HELP A NEEDY FAMILY PROGRAM 2025

It is difficult to believe that it is already time to plan and organize our 2025 Community Needy Family Program. This will be our 24th year helping families in need with clothing, household items and basic necessities. Last year, we were able to help 18 families including one from B’nai Tikvah!

For those who are new to our B’nai Tikvah family, these needy families are selected by a school social worker in New Brunswick. She has worked with us since the program’s inception.

As we continue to live in a “new normal”, we will continue to run a hybrid program. For those of you who are comfortable in shopping, you can do so; for those who are not comfortable, financial donations will be greatly appreciated and used to purchase gift cards or needed items.

If you would like to participate, please email me at jbbd11@verizon.net and let me know in which of the following capacities: financial donation or purchasing of gifts.

Monetary donations can be made in the following ways: https://bnaitikvah.org/donations/needyfamily or Send a check to the synagogue office, made out to B'nai Tikvah-indicate Needy Family Program in memo.

Purchase gifts for: Sponsoring a family-(@ 5 gifts per family member) Sponsoring an adult and child Sponsoring one person Purchasing one or more gifts for a family Any form of participation will be greatly appreciated.

For additional information, please email me at Jbbd11@verizon.net .

Thanks so much!

Janice Baer

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PICKLEBALL

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Congregation B’nai Tikvah is Central NJ’s premier egalitarian Conservative synagogue.

Our Congregation warmly welcomes Jewish and interfaith families, couples, same sex couples, and singles into our highly diverse community.

Please see our schedule of services and join us!

For more information, please go to www.bnaitikvah.org or call the office at 732.297.0696.

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December Calendar 1st - Synagogue Board Meeting, 7:30 PM - Men’s Club Football Night rd 3 - Rabbi Lunch & Learn, 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM 3rd – Religious School, 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM 5th - Birthday Shabbat 6th - Emma Cohen Bat Mitzvah 7th - PJ Library & CBT - Hannukah Hoopla, 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM - Men’s Club Regional Man of the Year, 1:00 PM th 8 - Membership Meeting, 7:30 PM 10th - Rabbi Lunch & Learn, 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM 10th – Religious School, 4:30 to 6:30 PM 11th - NJ Devils Game – Jewish Heritage Night, 7:00 PM 13th - Shabbat Lunch & Learn - Sisterhood/Men’s Club/WAM – Latkes and Vodka th 14 - USY – Krispy Kreme Pickup & Event 15th - Sisterhood Board Meeting, 8:00 PM 16th - Monthly Minyan in Monroe, 7 PM 17th - Rabbi Lunch & Learn, 12:00 PM - Religious School, 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM - CBT Hanukkah Party, 6:00 PM PM th 18 - EC Meeting, 8:00 PM 19th - Shabbat Dinner – Shabbanukkah, 6:00 PM 21st - JWLT, 10:00 AM 23rd - Chaverim, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM 25th - Chessed for Chanukah

EXPERT ADVICE

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The congregation extends deepest condolences to: Doug & Syndi Smoller and Family, on the loss of Doug’s father, Michael Smoller

The congregation extends a hearty Mazel Tov to: Rose & Jeff Berger on the engagement of their son Seth to Catherine Chumakov Mazel Tov to Sharon and Craig Cohen and the entire Cohen Family, on the occasion of the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter, Emma. Way to go Emma!

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‫ְוָע ׂשּו ִל י ִמ ְק ָּד ׁש ְוָׁש ַכְנִּת י ְּב ֹתוָכם‬ “Let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst”

Congregation B’nai Tikvah gratefully acknowledges the following donations: DONATIONS RECEIVED OCTOBER 15TH THROUGH NOVEMBER 17TH, 2025

Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund Lynn & Arthur Biderman, in appreciation of Rabbi Wolkoff’s meaningful, beautiful High Holiday Sermons Janis & David Hoffman, Mazel Tov to Gordon Heit for being named 2025 Men’s Club Man of the Year Jill Stone, in memory of her beloved mother, Bella Gandel Isaac & Beverly Grodzinski, in memory of Isaac’s beloved mother, Eva Grodzinski Irwin & Michele Millinger, in memory of Irwin’s beloved mother, Blanche Millinger Arlene & Mitchell Frumkin, in memory of Arlene’s beloved sister, Linda Lakin Sheila Friedlander, in memory of her beloved husband, Louis Friedlander Lou & Audrey Flumen, in memory of Lou’s beloved mother, Helen Flumenbaum Lou & Audrey Flumen, in memory of Lou’s beloved father, Irving Flumenbaum

EXPERT ADVICE

Cantor’s Special Fund Lynn & Arthur Biderman, in appreciation of the beauty of Cantor Rockman’s music and prayer during the High Holidays Janis & David Hoffman, Mazel Tov to Lynn and Arthur Biderman on the marriage of their son, Matthew and Genia Pultorak Harriet Cohen, in memory of Laura Waksman’s beloved father, Martin Bernstein General Fund Linda Fellen & Ben Gottesman, Mazel Tov to Marcie and Steven Kfare on the engagement of their son, Phillip to Haley Religious School Fund Ann Gold, endless thanks to everyone who visited, called, sent cards, and good wishes to me while I was in rehab

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Arnie Miller Youth Activity Fund Susan Miller, in memory of her beloved mother, Dora Schildkraut Susan Miller, in memory of her beloved father, Harry Schildkraut Susan Miller, in memory of her beloved father-in-law, Morris Miller Susan Miller, Mazel Tov to Rose and Jeff Berger, on the engagement of their son, Seth to Catherine Chumakov Shelly & Ken Wistreich, Mazel Tov to Rose and Jeff Berger, on the engagement of their son, Seth to Catherine Chumakov Maxine Goldsmith, in honor of the Bat Mitzvah of Janet Weiss’ granddaughter, Evie Yahrzeit and Tzedakah Fund Caryl Distel, in memory of her beloved son, Steven Distel Barbara Mailman, in memory of her beloved husband, Jack Mailman Barbara Mailman, in memory of her beloved father, Hyman Kublin Rena & Barry Lepinsky, in memory of Amy Schreck’s beloved father, Eugene Rautenberg Arlene Bacher, in memory of her beloved brother, Alan Forster Debra Stein-Lamoreaux & Jeff Lamoreaux, in memory of Debra’s beloved sister, Sherry Stein Janice & Barry Kipnis, in memory of Janice’s beloved father, Norman Bork Beverly Heller, in memory of her beloved husband, Harold Heller Ira & Wendy Heisler, in memory of Ira’s beloved father, Emanual Heisler Roberta & Harvey Bilker, in memory of Roberta’s beloved mother, Jean Rubin Nila & David Mason, in memory of Nila’s beloved mother, Gertrude Shapiro Joyce & Joel Gerbman, in memory of Joyce’s beloved father, George Weinstein Myra Dickert, in memory of her beloved husband, Howard Dickert Caren & Barry Dworkin, in memory of Caren’s beloved mother, Shirley Siegel David & Nila Mason, in memory of David’s father, Milton Mason

EXPERT ADVICE

Ritual Fund Lynn & Arthur Biderman, in appreciation of extraordinary work Gordon Heit does during the High Holidays Helene & Gary Tinkel, in memory of Helene’s beloved father, Harold Reimer Sarina & Gerry Feldman, in appreciation of being called for Aliyot to Torah Safety & Security Fund Carole Turkheimer, in memory of her beloved aunt, May Scherz Marty and Marci Abschutz, in memory of Marty’s beloved mother, Yvette Abschutz

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Shabbat Luncheon Fund Adrienne & Andy Ross, Mazel Tov to Lynn and Arthur Biderman on the marriage of their son, Matthew and Genia Pultorak Adrienne & Andy Ross, in memory of Adrienne’s beloved mother, Phyllis Spigelman Adrienne & Andy Ross, in memory of Adrienne’s beloved grandmother, Mollie Margolese Adrienne & Andy Ross, in memory of Laura Waksman’s beloved father, Martin Bernstein Adrienne & Andy Ross, Mazel Tov to Rose and Jeff Berger, on the engagement of their son, Seth to Catherine Chumakov Barbra London, Mazel Tov to Adrienne and Andy Ross on the birth of their grandson, Issac Ross Weiss Barbra London, Mazel Tov to Lynn and Arthur Biderman on the marriage of their son, Matthew and Genia Pultorak Marcie & Steven Kfare, in memory of Marcie’s beloved father, Jack Tarr Steven & Marcie Kfare, in memory of Steven’s beloved mother, Marilyn Kfare Ellyn Schneider, in memory of her beloved mother, Selma Silverstein Ellyn Schneider, in memory of her beloved father, Bert Silverstein Cheryl & Myron Asnis, in memory of Laura Waksman’s beloved father, Martin Bernstein Renee & Joe Grodman, in memory of Laura Waksman’s beloved father, Martin Bernstein Gaye & Alan Feinberg, in memory of Ruth Ginsburg The Spindel Family, in honor of the anniversary Shabbat of Neil’s Bar Mitzvah Sarina & Gerry Feldman, in memory of Sarina’s beloved mother, Anna Venouziou

EXPERT ADVICE

Ruth Ann Breitler Bikur Cholim Fund Edita Applebaum, in memory of her beloved husband, Todd Applebaum Edita Applebaum, in memory of her beloved father-in-law, Melvin Applebaum Shirley & Martin Engel, in memory of Shirley’s beloved mother, Esther Ginsburg Herb Mars & Family, Mazel Tov to Gordon Heit for being named 2025 Men’s Club Man of the Year Herb Mars & Family, in memory of Laura Waksman’s beloved father, Martin Bernstein

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Community Needy Family Fund Art & Janice Baer, in memory of Art’s beloved mother, Beatrice Baer Art & Janice Baer, in memory of Art’s beloved father, Alvin Baer Art & Janice Baer, Mazel Tov to Rose and Jeff Berger, on the engagement of their son, Seth to Catherine Chumakov Judy Kleinman, in memory of her beloved father, Seymour Kulick

L’dor Vador Fund Jessica & Liz Marcus, in honor of Stacey and Cantor Rockman’s daughter, Bashe, for her bravery and dedication to Israel Shomrei Tikvah Fund Arthur & Arlene Cederbaum, in memory of Arthur’s beloved friend, Lily Cederbaum Arthur & Arlene Cederbaum, in memory of Laura Waksman’s beloved father, Martin Bernstein Arthur & Arlene Cederbaum, in appreciation of Marcia and Jeff Schwartz’ kindness Arthur & Arlene Cederbaum, in appreciation of Gale and Marc Dillman’s kindness Suzy & Kevin Krane, in memory of Suzy’s beloved father, Abraham Klein Bobbi & Marc Binder, in memory of Bobbi’s beloved mother, Elaine Cohn

EXPERT ADVICE

Men’s Club Mike Greenfield, in appreciation of Steve Katz’s continued help and friendship

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Jodi Wexler Marcou Social Action Fund Joyce and Gerald Fishelberg, in memory of Amy Schreck’s beloved father, Eugene Rautenberg Elizabeth Poplin & Steven Wolpert Natasha Rosenbaum, in memory of Laura Waksman’s beloved father, Martin Bernstein Janet Weiss, in memory of Laura Waksman’s beloved father, Martin Bernstein Marci & Marty Abschutz, in memory of Marci’s beloved father, William Koshner Ellie & Bill Greenberg, in memory of Laura Waksman’s beloved father, Martin Bernstein Barbra London, in memory of Laura Waksman’s beloved father, Martin Bernstein Lisa & Richard Seidman, in memory of Laura Waksman’s beloved father, Martin Bernstein Ruth Appel, in memory of Laura Waksman’s beloved father, Martin Bernstein Marci & Marty Abschutz, in memory of Laura Waksman’s beloved father, Martin Bernstein Gale Katz, in memory of Laura Waksman’s beloved father, Martin Bernstein Janis & David Hoffman, in memory of Laura Waksman’s beloved father, Martin Bernstein Linda Kalb, in memory of Laura Waksman’s beloved father, Martin Bernstein Cindy and Neal Gittleman, in memory of Cindy’s beloved brother, Michael Solomon Abbey Lorber, in memory of her beloved father, Sam Kahn Mike Greenfield, in appreciation of Lesley Lewkowicz’s help David Marcou, in memory of his beloved wife, Jodi Marcou Ruth Appel, in memory of her beloved father, Herman Klein Linda Kalb, in memory of her beloved father, Sanford Kalb

EXPERT ADVICE

Please Note: It is never the intention of the office to leave out someone’s donation from the Hakol listings. If your donation was inadvertently left out, please contact the office and we will include it in the next Hakol. Thank you.

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PLEASE USE THE FORM BELOW OR DONATE ONLINE AT WWW.BNAITIKVAH.ORG

www.bnaitikvah.org

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Daily Schedule of Prayer Services Please join us in-person if you can. All services are also available via Stream and Zoom (password needed; please contact the office for more info).

Sunday 9:00 AM & 7:30 PM Monday 7:30 PM Tuesday 7:30 PM Wednesday 7:30 PM Thursday 8:00 AM & 7:30 PM Friday - Kabbalat Shabbat 7:00 PM Shabbat 9:30 AM

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