CBT Hakol February 2026

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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!

Happy Tu B'Shevat! (See page 15) December 2025 February 2026

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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.

Inside

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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)

Rabbi’s Desk

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Cantor’s Corn er

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Presidents’ Podium

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Mishloach Manot

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Teacher Tidbits

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PUB CRAWL

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TRIVIA NIGHT

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Monroe Minyan

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Siddur Lev Shalem

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Get to Know Our Advertisers

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Social Action

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Sisterhood

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Men’s Club

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Bikur Cholim

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CBT Book Club

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Tot Shabbat

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Needy Families

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Birthdays

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February 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

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Rabbi’s Desk Rabbi Robert Wolkoff

Over the past several years, we have seen anti-Semitism rear its ugly head in a variety of ways. Massacres by Islamic terrorists, as in Bondi Beach. Arson by classic Christian antiSemites burning down “synagogues of Satan,” as in Jackson Mississippi. Jews subjected to abuse and intimidation as they enter Jewish sacred space, as in New York City.

All are terrible. But the most insidious form of anti-Semitism, and the one that will have the longest-lasting and most damaging effect, is the anti-Semitism of arrogance, the haughty assertion by the anti-Semite of the right to decide who the good Jews and who the bad Jews are.

How do they define good and bad Jews?

For the anti-Semites, good Jews are weak, passive, vulnerable, and powerless, but morally pure, precisely because of their powerlessness, and imbued with all sorts of wonderful highminded universalistic ideas that center on G-d but ignore the Jewish people.

Bad Jews, in contrast, are strong, active and refuse to be victims, and morally tainted because they have all sorts of tawdry ethno-national particularistic ideas that center on the Jewish people.

This is, I am happy to report, an utterly fallacious distinction. Judaism has always combined the highest ideas of G-d with the most particularistic ideas concerning the Jewish people.

Here’s an example, from 2,000 years ago. It comes from Philo Judeaus, of Alexandria Egypt, the most important universalistic thinker you’ve probably never heard of. Keeping a long story short, a powerful case has been made that it was Philo who set the terms for all of Western theology—Jewish, Christian and Muslim—for 1600 years. You don’t hardly get more universalistic than that.

Among other things, Philo wrote about 20 volumes worth of Bible commentary. And when we look at his commentary on the burning bush, perhaps G-d’s most famous revelation, one would expect that Philo would wax eloquent about G-d in the supposedly purest, least ethnic, way.

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Rabbi’s Desk (continued from previous page)

But listen to what Philo actually says: “The burning bush was a symbol of the oppressed people, and the burning fire was a symbol of the oppressors; and the circumstance of the burning bush not being consumed was an emblem of the fact that the people thus oppressed would not be destroyed by those who were attacking them.”

What does it mean that G-d, in this most famous revelation, appears in the form of an allegory about people, and in particular, about His people, about us? It means, among other things, that the attempt to separate between universalism and ethnocentrism is absurd, entirely divorced from the reality of our Jewish intellectual legacy.

And as that distinction collapses, so too the distinction between “good Jews” and “bad Jews.” Like it or not, real Jews are “bad Jews,” and that has consequences. For us, it means that no one in the tribe can successfully outrun our ethnicity. When Bernstein and Sondheim wrote “When you’re a Jet, you’re a Jet all the way,” they were only off by one letter. For the anti-Zionist but not anti-Semitic crowd, it means fuhgeddaboudit. You’re in for a penny, you’re in for a pound. When you “globalize the intifada,” you’re putting a target on all our backs. If that’s not what you want to do, then you should back away from the barricades. And if that is what you want to do, well, you are known for what you are.

Philo of Alexandria circa 20 BCE - circa 50 CE

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Rabbi’s Desk (continued from previous page)

What our parsha teaches us in the most evocative way is that the G-d of the universe is on the side of the oppressed who, like the bush itself, will not be consumed. And when we say, “Hear o Israel, the Lord is our G-d…” that’s the G-d we’re talking about.

What does that mean for our identity, our sense of ourselves? Hear the words of slam poet Vanessa Hidary, the Hebrew Mamita, excerpted from her “Bad Jew” spoken word poem: “By October 12th, I knew I could no longer be a good Jew. An apologetic Jew, a Jew who has taken our homeland for granted, a Jew with a grandmother that ended up in New York but could have ended up in Israel, a Jew who now calls herself a Zionist and watches faces fall, a Zionist who some other artist won't be on the same bill with.

A Zionist who knows that free speech is never so free as when it's hate speech against Jews. A Zionist who knows rape is not resistance. A Zionist that didn't think she could feel more proud of her people. A Zionist who confronted a white man ripping down hostage posters. A Zionist who was called a white supremacist in front of her black daughter.

A Zionist who knew she needed to go to Israel to bear witness, to let them know we have your back, to apologize for being that American that only calls in emergencies, to tell you that what I've lost in people I've gained in backbone, to tell you I'm now a bad Jew…” May we all be bad Jews.

-- Rabbi Robert L. Wolkoff

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Cantor’s Corner The Youth Shall

Cantor Bruce Rockman

During my weekly tefillah (prayer) gathering with our young and impressive young students, I told them a story about the time we received the Torah at the foot of Mount Sinai. This is a true story, like the Torah, it has been handed down to me and to you, from generation to generation.

As we all know, Moses spent 40 days on the mysterious mountain and the Israelites impatiently waited in the camp below. Nowhere there were there bunks or counselors; it wasn’t that kind of camp! I suppose there may have been tents and the like; after all, you need shelter from the hot wilderness sun. Still, like any camp there were children and they needed to be occupied. They played games, helped their parents and like the rest, they complained. Why, why why… did we leave Egypt, at least we had jobs and the kids were occupied. Where is Moses, he abandoned us and he’s the only one with directions to the Promised Land. I hope you appreciate that I’m filling in some of the gaps for you that were left out by the editors.

As the 40th day approached, one child’s impatience and curiosity got the best of him. His name was Joseph, named after his great, great, great etc grandfather, you know the one, the guy with multicolored coat. “Enough waiting”, Joseph told his friends, “enough fun and games, let’s go and meet Moses when he comes down from the mountain!” Well, let’s just say their enthusiasm did not match Joseph’s.

He was on his own and determined to meet and find out what was so important that Moses spent so much time away from everyone.

That night Joseph snuck out of camp; it was a cool comfortable evening in the dark desert but that didn’t last long. The closer the mountain became, the more wind and sand started to blow in Joseph’s direction. Joseph was at the point of no return, he stubbornly persevered as his vision was obscured-thankfully there was a glowing aura emanating from the mountain which continued to guide his way.

Eventually the glow looked more like a brewing storm, lightning and thunder followed, Joseph was truly scared, why, why why, he thought, did I think this was a good idea? Joseph could not see the camp and he could not move forward, the sand from the storm whipped about, thankfully he found refuge under a large rock. Thank G-d! Joseph sheltered there throughout the night and eventually slept a bit.

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Cantor’s Corner (continued from previous page) As the dawn appeared, so did a figure in the distance, it was Moses, he was carrying something.

Joseph wiped the sleep from his eyes and stood in awe. He did it, Joseph was the first person to see Moses come down from Mount Sinai, and he was overjoyed! Just then Moses saw Joseph, he sternly asked the boy what he was doing out in the dangerous wilderness, away from his family and the Israelites?

Joseph had a difficult time explaining his enthusiasm, actually he did not say much, only “I wanted to see you, I knew you were doing something important” Moses calmly nodded his head and told young Joseph, “And I am so happy to see you, I was on the mountain so that I could bring you and your friends the Torah with G-d’s teachings, our story, and your legacy for generations to come.”

It was a truly transformative moment, Moses was reassured that unlike the time he had returned and smashed the tablets, this time there was hope for generations to come.

As our great teacher Debbie Friedman wrote: And The Youth Shall See Visions Now I’m grown, the years have passed, I’ve come to understand: There are choices to be made and my life’s at my command.

I cannot have a future ’til I embrace the past.

I promise to pursue the challenge, time is going fast.

Today’s the day I take my stand, the future’s mine to hold.

Commitments that I make today are dreams from days of old.

I have to make the way for generations come and go.

I’ll have to teach them what I’ve learned so they will come to know.

Ivdu et Hashem b’simcha Worship Adonai with Joy & Gladness!

Cantor Bruce Rockman, cantor@bnaitikvah.org 732-297-0696 x115

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Presidents’ Podium Ruth Anne Koenick & Marty Abschutz

As I am sure you know, Congregation B’nai Tikvah is a member of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ). This organization works with member synagogues across North America, Israel and other parts of the world. While USCJ has many responsibilities, one of them is to work with synagogues that are looking to hire a Rabbi.

Marty and I were referred to and have spoken with Mindy Block Gordon who is Director of Professional Clergy Search and Services. While her specialty area is alternative dispute resolution, she is the USCJ staff representative to the joint placement committee with the Rabbinical Assembly. Mindy is a wealth of resources and Marty and I will talk more about her discussion with us when we have our Membership Meeting on Sunday January 25, 2026 at 10am and in future meetings.

She has provided us with a list of Questions and Answers for the rabbinic Search. For example, I want to post a position that is for a pulpit position as a congregation. How do I start?

What is a common start date for pulpit positions?

What is the difference between “salary” or “base salary” and “total compensation?”

How do I value the benefits?

Do you have a sample rabbinic job description?

What are the different types of pulpit rabbis I can post for and what do they mean?

These are just a few of the Q&A she has provided that the search committee will receive.

Another example of information she provides is titled: Potential Rabbinic Search SubCommittees, with a list and suggestions for what needs to be done for each subcommittee. As you can see, Mindy is a wealth of information and is available to talk with us to provide answers to questions we may have that are not on her list.

We encourage you to join with us throughout this process and if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask.

Co-Presidents Ruth Anne Koenick and Marty Abschutz

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Teacher Tidbits Ronit Bivas. Director of Education

Growing Strong Roots As I write this, it is cold outside. Snow covers the ground, and the trees stand bare. Yet I find myself planning a program centered on fruit and trees. While we are very much here, my thoughts are in Israel, where spring will soon arrive and the trees will begin to bloom.

There is something truly special about having a holiday devoted entirely to trees. Tu B’Shvat, the New Year of the Trees, invites us to pause and appreciate the role trees play in sustaining life, nourishing our bodies, and teaching us about patience, resilience, and growth. It offers us a powerful lens through which to view our work as educators.

Trees remind us that growth is a process. Long before fruit appears, roots must grow deep, trunks must strengthen, and branches slowly stretch toward the light. Our students are much the same. Each child arrives with unique potential, and not all growth is immediately visible. In our Religious School, we focus on helping students develop strong roots; roots grounded in Jewish values, learning, and a sense of belonging. With time, care, and guidance, those roots allow confidence, curiosity, and responsibility to emerge.

Through our Tu B’Shvat family program, students and their families will explore a variety of meaningful themes connected to this holiday. Together, they will learn about the seven species mentioned in the Torah, deepen their connection to the land of Israel, and discover the importance of caring for trees and the natural world. By learning alongside their families, students will see that Jewish learning is not limited to the classroom, but that it is something shared, lived, and celebrated at home and in the community.

Even in the heart of winter, Tu B’Shvat reminds us to trust in the process of growth. It reassures us that what we nurture today will bear fruit tomorrow. I look forward to continuing the important work of guiding our students as they grow, branch out, and find their place within the Jewish story.

– Ronit Bivas

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Attention Monroe Members We have a monthly minyan that we have created JUST FOR YOU! You don't need to drive far. Located at Jewish Family Services in the Concordia Shopping Center, these minyans are held on the 3rd Tuesday of the month.

Want to stay informed?

We have created a Whatsapp just for you.

Please email Bobbi Binder with your phone number and name to be added to this group.

Remember, this is for you! Please encourage your Monroe neighbors to attend to help assure a minyan each month.

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Get to Know Our Advertisers!

Lesley Lewkowicz, Executive Director

This month’s featured advertiser is Sergio Fuentes, a Home Improvement Contractor.

On a professional level, Sergio offers a wide range of services, including interior and exterior painting, drywall repair, tile installation, deck repair, furniture assembly and repair, and much more. He is licensed and insured, known for his reliability, and offers fair and reasonable pricing.

On a personal level, Sergio is a CBT member, married to Orli Bander, and the proud father of Nico, a student in our religious school. The Bander-Fuentes family has been part of our synagogue community for several years and are active participants in both social and ritual programming. Sergio is also someone who never hesitates to lend a hand whenever he’s called upon.

We’re delighted to spotlight Sergio this month and appreciate both his professional services and the many ways he supports our CBT community.

You can reach Sergio by phone at 347-432-5726, or email at sergioafuentes9@gmail.com.

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Sequoias and Jews

Social Action Laura Waksman

The majestic sequoia trees, also known as the California redwoods, can grow to heights of 350 feet and some are as old as 3500 years, weathering every kind of storm imaginable. One would think that a tree this towering would have roots that go to the center of the earth, but no, their roots are shallow; only about 5 feet deep. They are indestructible because sequoias grow in groves and their roots grow extremely wide, up to 400 feet in diameter, with sister and brother trees interlocking their roots. Their secret to survival, their fused roots, provide their defense against any event nature may throw their way.

We Jews are the human replica of the sequoias; our roots are integrated and unified.

The power of interlocking roots, the power and importance of community, is why we have survived and thrived against the forces that strove to destroy us throughout the millennia. We rely on community; we eat Shabbat and holiday meals together; we pray in a quorum. We also need to lean on each other and sometimes to be reassured that we will not be weathering a storm alone.

But a community such as ours with members (trees) who come from a wide geographic area, can make it challenging to interlock roots. We are not all neighbors like in the Jewish communities of our childhoods, or our parents’ childhoods. So how do we strengthen our bonds and become those who can be relied upon and who can count on our community in our time of need? This is a discussion to be had many times over, and there are many possible answers, but I say the first step is to be present, participate and be consistent. Come to our second Jewish home: maybe an evening or morning minyan, Erev Shabbat themed monthly dinners and service, a Men’s Club or Sisterhood meeting or contact me at socialaction@bnaitikvah.org or Bikur Cholim to spread loving kindness to our B’nai Tikvah family. Be patient and see what connections might grow.

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Social Action (Continued) Thank you to volunteers Shelly Wistreich, Carol Eisenberg , Dot Cohen, and Steve Chernela.

Mark your calendars: Chaverim (60 plus): volunteers needed every month to serve lunch.

February 24th 12-2 PM : Larry Wolfert returns with “Jewish Folk Singers.”

Artists covered will include Theodore Bikel, Debbie Friedman, and The Weavers.

March 24th: topic TBA February 22nd at 10:30 in the school wing: Mitzvah Day planning meeting. Mitzvah Day returns on May 3. Everyone is welcome to attend and hear what is planned thus far and brainstorm ideas for Mitzvah projects in which the entire congregation can participate.

NEW! Produce the Produce-in addition to collecting pantry food for JFS, we will periodically collect produce; apples, bananas and clementines, specifically. Please bring these fruits only on March 1 in a bag placed in the wicker collection trunk down the hall from the office.

To RSVP, volunteer or ask anything, email me at socialaction@bnaitikavh.org.

– Laura

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Sisterhood Corner As an oncology nurse for more than three decades, I have seen remarkable progress in prevention, detection, treatment and survivorship. One of the most significant changes has been the role genetics plays in the management of cancer patients and their families.

Genetic counseling is now a routine and essential part of modern cancer care. Genetic Counseling is no longer an optional “extra” but a central pillar of proactive patient advocacy. It empowers patients with knowledge about inherited cancer risk, guides personalized treatment, and helps protect at-risk family members.

Genetics in oncology is a specialized service that helps patients and families understand whether inherited factors contribute to cancer risk. It combines medical genetics, cancer biology, and psycho-social support to guide decision-making about prevention, screening, and treatment.

On Sunday, January 11, 2026, Sisterhood B’nai Tikvah sponsored a genetic counseling event at the Synagogue. I was joined by my colleague from the Cancer Center at Penn Medicine Princeton Health, Joanna Mercado.

Joanna is a licensed, board-certified genetic counselor specializing in oncology genetics at Penn Medicine's Basser Center. Joanna spoke about her passion helping patients and their families understand genetic testing and the value of learning about hereditary cancer risk. She was able to make the genetic testing process approachable, informative, and empowering for everyone in attendance.

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(Continued from previous page) Familial, or inherited, cancer occurs when a change in a gene is passed from generation to generation within a family. Certain genetic changes, or mutations, can increase a person’s risk of developing specific types of cancer. However, it’s important to note that not all cancers are hereditary, and many are caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

If you have a personal history of cancer and/or a family member has been diagnosed with cancer at an early age, or if you have multiple family members with cancer, you may be eligible for genetic testing.

Genetic testing can help you and your family along with your doctors better understand the risk of developing a similar cancer and plan for screenings accordingly.

Please remember that it is best to first consult with a Primary Care Physician (PCP) or other provider to determine you and/or your family’s needs before proceeding with genetic services.

Lori Sookerman, RN BSN OCN is a Registered Nurse certified in Oncology with the Cancer Center at Penn Medicine Princeton Health where she cares for patients, their families, and supports providers of multiple specialties including Oncology, Hematology and Palliative care

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Men’s Club Pictures

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Men’s Club Upcoming Calendar Sunday, February 1st Yellow Candle Pick-up and Packing at CBT - Starting after Minyan at 10am Sunday, February 8th starting at 9am - 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 Men’s Club, Sisterhood, and our Religious School join together. Tefillin are intended to fulfill a biblical commandment and to symbolize the connection between Hashem and the Jewish people. Breakfast to follow sponsored by the Men’s Club.

Sunday, March 1st starting after Minyan - Film – “Above and Beyond” by Nancy Spielberg. The story of Jewish US Air Force WW2 veterans who flew for Israel in the 1948 War of Independence. Bill Greenberg will introduce the film by sharing his interview with one of those veteran pilots.

April - TBD Winter Olympics Experience. Join Steve Katz as he shares his pictures and experiences at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina/Milan. Breakfast sponsored by the Men’s Club.

Sunday May 3rd – Mitzvah Day at CBT

Past Meetings and Events January 11th – “Jews in Antarctica” Along with Penguins, Whales, Seals and more Penguins. Barry Safeer shared his experiences traveling on an expedition cruise through the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and Antarctica. He shared pictures and videos showing penguins and seals, hiking snowy mountains, learning from onboard experts, and feeling humbled by the remoteness and scale of these extraordinary places. Please see the attached pictures.

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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 the 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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The mission of the Bikur Cholim committee is to provide comfort and support to our CBT family when members are sick, homebound, hospitalized or vulnerable.

When feasible, we will visit hospitals, rehabilitation centers, long-term care facilities or members at home. Once at home, we provide a Shabbos meal for the patient and caregiver(s). If there is a need for durable medical equipment, we have several items available for loan, at no charge. The Bikur Cholim Committee can provide assistance in getting to and from medical appointments, running errands, picking up prescriptions, etc. Rides to attend services can also be arranged.

Requests for such assistance, notifications of hospitalization, or other matters are held in strict confidence, unless otherwise explicitly permitted, exclusive of clergy and synagogue administration. You can express your need via email to bikur@bnaitikvah.org or through the synagogue office, clergy, or individual committee members.

Additionally, we communicate with our senior congregants on a regular basis to ascertain status, needs, and to let them know that we care for their well-being. To provide a sense of community and concern, we celebrate those who have been blessed to reach the age of 90 through our Chai Five program.

We are a small group of concerned congregants, and if you wish to join us, you are more than welcome. We would be very grateful if you can occasionally lend a hand in completing our mission. Just email us or notify the synagogue office.

Thank you.

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Bikur Cholim Committee Initiatives The Bikur Cholim Committee at Congregation B’nai Tikvah is a small but dedicated group that reaches out to congregants who are ill, convalescing, or rehabilitating. By informing the synagogue office or a committee member of a medical situation, we are able to offer support and help ensure that no one feels alone.

All communication with the Bikur Cholim Committee, and by extension, the synagogue office, remains strictly confidential.

In addition to our ongoing outreach, the Bikur Cholim Committee has launched several new initiatives that go beyond monthly phone calls, Shabbat meals, and general check-ins. These programs are designed to further support the well-being of our community.

Vaccine Initiative If your healthcare plan no longer covers certain vaccinations, covers them only in part, or if you are currently without coverage, please know that B’nai Tikvah is here to help.

We are offering financial assistance to cover the full cost of needed vaccinations for any of our members who require support.

If you or someone you know within our community could benefit from this assistance, please reach out — confidentially — to Lesley at lesley@bnaitikvah.org or call 732-2970696, x111.

Together, we embody the spirit of tikkun olam — healing the world — beginning with caring for one another.

Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Initiative If you or someone you know needs durable medical equipment (DME) — such as walkers, wheelchairs, or other supportive devices — B’nai Tikvah is here to help. We provide assistance to ensure that necessary equipment is available to members who require it, regardless of insurance coverage or financial situation.

For confidential support or to request equipment, please contact Lesley at lesley@bnaitikvah.org or call 732-297-0696, x111.

Through this initiative, we continue our commitment to caring for each member of our community and making sure that no one faces health challenges alone.

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Bikur Cholim Committee Initiatives (continued) Ride Initiative The Bikur Cholim Ride Initiative partners with JFS Transportation Services to provide rides for adults aged 60+ who are currently enrolled in a JFS program. Priority is given to medical appointments, followed by JFS Middlesex programs and services. Rides are also available to: Banks, attorneys, and government offices Grocery stores Rides must be requested at least one week in advance, and are scheduled based on availability. Ride times are Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM. A suggested donation of $5 per ride is requested. To schedule your ride, please call JFS at 732-777-1940 x1110.

Be sure to mention that you are a member of Congregation B’nai Tikvah — your ride will be covered by Bikur Cholim.

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RESULTS OF 2025 NEEDY FAMILY PROGRAM We recently completed our 24th year running the “Needy Family Program”. We continued to run a hybrid program- those who wanted to shop, shopped and those who didn’t made financial donations used to purchase gift cards and needed items. We were able to sponsor 23 families from the New Brunswick community.

Nineteen families received $500 gift cards from Walmart. Four other families (18 people) were given clothing for each person, towels, sheets, blankets, silverware, dishes, pots, pans etc.

Five families from our B’nai Tikvah family were given gift cards of their choice.

This year 8 of the 23 New Brunswick families lived in a domestic violence shelter.

Several of the other families have children who are severely impaired which prevents the mothers from working. Many of the children are wearing clothes that no longer fit and are frequently asking for snacks as they do not have enough food at home. Many of the parents of these families earn minimum wage at factories and barely are able to cover their rent, let alone purchase food. One of the families is a family of five, 2 parents and 3 teenagers. They live in a one room basement apartment. One of the teens often frequents the guidance office looking for food.

As everything has gotten so much more expensive this year, it has increased the hardships of these families. I can’t imagine, as a parent worrying meal to meal if I have enough food to give to my children. The need for food, a basic human right, has unfortunately continued to grow. Upon receiving the gift cards, parents were relieved that they would be able to feed their children during the holiday break when school is not in session.

We are so very blessed that we have a community and family that support us. We are also blessed that we can help the less fortunate. I am beyond grateful for the continued support of this program from our B’nai Tikvah community. Please know that your contributions have made a significant difference in the lives of many people. Running the Needy Family program fills my soul. Hearing our BT participants ask questions regarding their purchases to make sure it’s perfect or the joy that they bought a toy a child has been longing for warms my heart. For me, seeing the care, warmth and generosity of our BT family gives me hope for the future in a world that presently feels cruel and disrespectful to others.

Please read Doris Cruz’s thank you letter. She is the social worker who has been working with us since the inception of this program As some of you may not know, we have begun collecting financial donations during the year for the Needy Family Program. Please know that this program helps all families in great need whether from our B’nai Tikvah community or in our surrounding community….Tikun OlamRepairing the world. To make a donation during the year, you can either send a check to B’nai Tikvah and place Needy family in the memo or you can go to our link https://bnaitikvah.org/family-in-need I can’t thank you all enough for participating in this program as it truly makes a difference in so many lives.

Wishing you and your families a year full of health, happiness and peace.

– Janice Baer Needy Family Program

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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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PICKLEBALL

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February Calendar Feb 1 – Religious School Tu B’Shvat Seder Feb 2 – CBT Board Meeting, 8pm Feb 4 – Rabbi Wolkoff’s Lunch & Learn, 12-1:30pm Feb 7 – Superbowl Shabbat, 9:30am Feb 7 - Tot Shabbat, 11:00am Feb 7 - JCFS, 11:00am Feb 8 – World Wide Wrap, 9:00am Feb 8 - JWLT, 10am Feb 9 – Sisterhood Board Meeting, 8pm Feb 10 – CBT Book Club, 7pm Feb 11 – Rabbi Wolkoff’s Lunch & Learn 12-1:30pm Feb 14 – Shabbat Lunch & Learn Feb 16 – Synagogue Office Closed – Presidents Day Observance Feb 18 – Rabbi Wolkoff’s Lunch & Learn, 12-1:30pm Feb 19 – Rabbi Wolkoff’s Monroe Lecture, 2:00pm Feb 20 – Birthday Shabbat, 7pm Feb 21 – CBT Gala, 7:00pm Feb 23 – Ritual Committee Meeting, 8pm Feb 24 – Chaverim, 12:00-2:00pm Feb 25 – Rabbi Wolkoff’s Lunch & Learn, 12-1:30pm Feb 25 – Meet Lev Shalem, 7:30pm Feb 28 – Gillian Kleinman Bat Mitzvah

EXPERT ADVICE

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The congregation extends deepest condolences to: Penny and Brad Cohen, on the loss of Penny’s beloved mother, Estelle Jucowics Lowell and Michelle Mandelblatt, on the loss of Lowell’s beloved father, and our dear member, Leonard Mandelblatt Gary Horowitz, on the loss of his beloved wife, and our dear member, Sarah Cooper Horowitz

The congregation extends a hearty Mazel Tov to: Michele Kleinman, and to Susan and Jon Kleinman, on the occasion of the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter and granddaughter, Gillian.

Thank you!

Thank you to Phyllis Pinsky for the beautiful calligraphy on our Bar and Bat Mitzvah certificates.

Thank you to Lisa Seidman for continuing to be our Blood Drive volunteer.

A very special thank you from Lesley to Ken Wistreich: Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU, Ken, for working on a practically non-existent budget, for the many, many hours you spent spackling, painting, replacing blinds, organizing wires, and freshening up my office.

After almost 6 years at CBT, it finally feels like my office is my office. It’s bright, it’s cheery, it feels like me, and I walk in every day, look around and I smile.

And, what I know started out as a voluntold, sincerely turned into a volunteer project.

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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 DECEMBER 15TH, 2025 THROUGH JANUARY 14TH, 2026

Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund Allen & Ruth Schechter, in memory of Allen’s beloved mother, Rose Schechter Michael Harkavy, in memory of his beloved brother, Andrew Harkavy Debra & Scott Rekant, wishing Rabbi Wolkoff well on his next adventure Cantor’s Special Fund Janis & David Hoffman, in memory of Rachel Ruchlin Irwin Kalet, in memory of his beloved father, Henry Kalet Steven Mark, in memory of his beloved wife, Ronnie Mark

EXPERT ADVICE

Yahrzeit and Tzedakah Fund Ellen & Gerald Platz, in memory of Ellen’s beloved father, Robert Lepowsky Maxine & Irwin Nudelman, in memory of Maxine’s beloved brother, David August Leslie & Steven Dickert, in memory of Leslie’s beloved father, Irving Margulies Lilya & Aleksandr Shablya, in memory of Lilya’s beloved father, Moisey Prupes Irwin Kalet, in memory of his beloved father, Henry Kalet Stephen Breitkopf, in memory of his beloved wife, Marilyn Breitkopf The Kessler Family, in memory of Norlyn Kessler’s beloved father, Nathan Schanen The Platz Family, in memory of Gerald’s beloved father, Leo Platz Ira & Wendy Heisler, in memory of Ira’s beloved mother, Mary Heisler Marvin Stark, in memory of his beloved mother, Esther Stark The Dworkin Family, in memory of Barry’s beloved brother, Robert Dworkin The Dworkin Family, in memory of Caren’s beloved grandmother, Lena Azaria The Dworkin Family, in memory of Caren’s beloved father, Alan Siegel The Nudelman Family, in memory of Irwin’s beloved father, Sol Nudelman The Nudelman Family, in memory of Maxine’s beloved friend, Anita Abrams Barry & Lena Lepinsky, in memory of Barry’s beloved mother, Eileen Lepinsky Michele & Dave Greenfield, in memory of Michele’s beloved father, Hyman Arougheti Joel & Joyce Gerbman, in memory of Joel’s beloved brother, Allen Gerbman

(continued)

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Religious School Fund Ruth Anne Koenick & Paul Herman, in memory of Penny Cohen’s beloved mother, Estelle Jucowics Shabbat Together Fund Amanda & Harry Uniman, in memory of Amanda’s beloved grandmother, Helen Zara Amanda & Harry Uniman, in memory of Amanda’s beloved grandfather, Nathan Dillman Amanda & Harry Uniman, in memory of Amanda’s beloved cousin, Leslie Warshaw Harry & Amanda Uniman, in memory of Harry’s beloved grandmother, Shirley Uniman

Shabbat Luncheon Fund Adrienne & Andy Ross, Mazel Tov to Janice and Art Baer on the birth of their granddaughter, Isabelle Mae Baer Ann Rosenzweig, in memory of her beloved husband, Sam Rosenzweig Ann Rosenzweig, in memory of her beloved father, Moses Falthzik Ann Rosenzweig, in memory of her beloved father-in-law, Abraham Rosenzweig Ann Rosenzweig, in memory of Laura Waksman’s beloved father, Martin Bernstein Ann Rosenzweig, in honor of Jay Scheuer’s 91st birthday Ann Rosenzweig, in honor of Lesley Lewkowicz for all her help Myron & Cheryl Asnis, in memory of Myron’s beloved father, Gordon Asnis Jill Stone, Mazel Tov to Gordon Heit for being named 2025 Men’s Club Man of the Year Adrienne & Andy Ross, in memory of Penny Cohen’s beloved mother, Estelle Jucowics Phyllis & Allen Pinsky, in memory of Phyllis’ beloved grandfather, Abraham Rubenstein

EXPERT ADVICE

Shomrei Tikvah Fund Bobbi & Marc Binder, in memory of Bobbi’s beloved father, Barney Cohn Jill Stone, Mazel Tov to Janice and Art Baer on the birth of their granddaughter, Isabelle Mae Baer Burt & Vicki Bauman, in memory of Burt’s beloved mother, Yetta Bauman Brenda & Mark Sherman, Mazel Tov to Marcie and Steven Kfare on the engagement of their son, Philip to Haley Meyers Brenda & Mark Sherman, Mazel Tov to Rose and Jeff Berger on the engagement of their son, Seth to Catherine Chumakov Brenda & Mark Sherman, in memory of Penny Cohen’s beloved mother, Estelle Jucowics Ritual Fund Linda Fellen & Ben Gottesman, Mazel Tov to Gordon Heit for being named Congregation B’nai Tikvah’s 2025 Men’s Club Man of the Year Mark Kasdin Memorial Fund Maxine Kasdin, in memory of her beloved father, Jack Steck (continued)

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Jodi Wexler Marcou Social Action Fund Marci & Marty Abschutz, in memory of Marci’s beloved aunt, Anita Capon Marci & Marty Abschutz, in memory of Marci’s beloved uncle, Al Capon LouAnne & John Wolf, in memory of LouAnne’s beloved father, Marvin Michaels Renee & Steven Levin, in memory of Renee’s beloved father, Dick Schaap Debra and Scott Rekant, in memory of Debra’s beloved father, Herman Slotoroff Sima & Stuart Brokowsky, in memory of Gary Horowitz’s beloved wife, Sarah Cooper Horowitz Deborah & Paul Katcher, in appreciation of Marci and Marty Abschutz Caryl & Danny Greenberg, in memory of Amy and Cliff Smith’s beloved sister-in-law, Sarah Cooper Horowitz Safety & Security Fund Janet Weiss, in memory of her beloved husband, Michael Weiss Marci & Marty Abschutz, in memory of Sid Baumgarten’s beloved brother, Joel Baumgarten Carole Turkheimer, in memory of her beloved mother-in-law, Lillian Turkheimer The Zweig Family, in memory of William Lomp General Fund Linda Fellen & Ben Gottesman, in memory of Penny Cohen’s beloved mother, Estelle Jucowics

EXPERT ADVICE

Community Needy Family Fund Brenda & Mark Sherman, Mazel Tov to Janice and Art Baer on the birth of their granddaughter, Isabelle Mae Baer Stephen Chernela, in memory of his beloved friend, Elaine Friedman Arnie Miller Youth Activities Fund Phyllis Horlick, in memory of Harry Horlick Sacred Space and Texts Fund Marian & Joel Felberbaum, wishing Arlene Cederbaum a Refuah Shlema, a full and complete recovery Sons of Tikvah Fund Irwin & Maxine Nudelman, in memory of Irwin’s beloved uncle, Lou Waxman

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

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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