CBT Hakol June 2025

Congregation B’nai Tikvah

www.bnaitikvah.org

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

Jewish Pride

GUEST COLUMN

Inside

BY JESSICA MARCUS I was getting ready for an early date with a new girlfriend. We had picked out a restaurant and I had a bar in mind if the night progressed the way I hoped.

Makeup on, hair done, quick look at my phone to verify I was on time…. and I saw it, on my phone calendar…. it was Tisha B’Av. It had been a long time since I really registered the Three Weeks. I was largely not kosher, I went to boozy brunches, not Shabbat services on my Saturday mornings. I had more non-Jewish friends than Jewish, and firmly held that I had left behind the religious trauma of being a gay Jew. I didn’t even go to “Yeshiva Day School Survivor’s” meetings anymore. Judaism wasn’t interested in me, and I wasn’t interested in it. So off to the restaurant we went. I ate, I drank, we shmoozed, and when we should have been transitioning to a bar or coffee shop I proposed maybe, if she was interested, I knew of a Tisha B’Av minyan we could stop in for a second. My very good-natured new girlfriend (who for obvious reasons from just this story alone would eventually become my wife) agreed. A half hour later, in this shul’s way of mourning so many disasters in

Index of Advertisers

2

Tree of Life

6

The Rabbi’s Desk

7

Cantor’s Corner

9

Director’s Digest

14

Shabbarba-LGBT-Q

15

Presidents’ Podium

17

Men’s Club

18

Teacher Tidbits

21

Sisterhood

23

Yizkor Booklet

24

CBT Cleanup!

29

Pickleball

32

Birthdays

35

Israel Bonds

31

Member News

37

June Calendar

38

Donations

39

Schedule of Services

44

[CONTINUED ON PAGE 3]

June 2025

Page 2

www.bnaitikvah.org

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 lowres 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.

Index of Advertisers Contact Lesley to include your ad in Hakol!!

Alexander Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning 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 (Handyman) Martine, Katz, Scanlon & Schimmel (Diana Schimmel Avena) Mobility Memory Care of North Brunswick Morgan Stanley (Mark Sherman)

PLEASE support our advertisers as they support us!!

22 13 16 13 27 16 22 12 27 26 28 33

Page 3

www.bnaitikvah.org

[CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1]

GUEST COLUMN

CONTINUED

Jewish history, we were sitting on the floor, shoeless, by candlelight, reading Lamentations, the sanctuary’s artwork covered in dark drapes. A unique date. She went along with it. As we walked together later that night I felt the need to mention “that’s not like something I do a lot. It’s not a big part of who I am.” My wife would learn, day in and day out, in the ways I dress, the things I ate, the Yiddish I used, the stories I told, that it was undeniably a HUGE part of who I am.

There’s a popular joke about the indissoluble Jewish neshama (soul), “What do you call a Jew who has been baptized a hundred times… a very wet Jew.” My version is “what do you call a Jew who has been marginalized, othered, under served and down right humiliated by her own people? A very disgruntled… Jew. My formative years took place in the 1990’s. Limiting the conversation to strictly Conservative Judaism, the 90’s closed out with no gay or lesbian ordination, no recognition of same sex marriage and still debate over allowing same sex couples family synagogue membership. In many Conservative shuls, two lesbian partners had to join as separate singles.

Jewish gays and lesbians of my generation and before, especially from frum or more observant upbringings, usually had only a few choices. Get married, have children, daven that it will be enough. Or leave, become “off the derech.” Meaning there’s a path, a roadmap for this life, and you’ve intentionally left it. In reality, you’ve been thrown from it, but the message was clearwe’re uncomfortable with the “ethical issues” of your mere existence. So, if you could all please move to the West Village so we don’t have to grapple with the halachic, social and emotional concerns that accepting you would require, that would be greatly appreciated.

I played along longer than most. Marriage, divorce, and a gradual coming out. All stories for another Hakol article, or a boozy brunch (I prefer Sundays now). In the end I was hurt, embarrassed to be suddenly defined by the most personal of things, but lucky to find friendship and acceptance in the New York City queer world and spent a good decade going through my second (or maybe just delayed first) adolescence.

And then I met Liz. The poor girlfriend sitting on the floor for Tisha B’Av, wondering what else this relationship would bring is now the Kiddish saying, latke flipping, “oops I used the milchigs fork” admitting wife of my Jewish dreams. Married by a Rabbi in a park, just the two of us, our photographer as a witness. I thought that Rabbi might be the last we saw of overt Judaism for a while. But then we took the biggest leap of faith imaginable. We had children. And with the children came new wants- a yard, good schools, and to never again have to worry about alternate street parking. So, to the suburbs we fled and here in East Brunswick, New Jersey I have begun my newest and hardest role- navigating the Jewish world for my “modern family.”

[CONTINUED ON PAGE 4]

Page 4

www.bnaitikvah.org

[CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3]

GUEST COLUMN

CONTINUED

The point of the personal anecdotes is to dispel the idea that to be queer is to reject Judaism, that gay Jews can involuntarily be separated from Jewish communities without trauma. And a reminder that even today, in the most accepting of places, the discomfort of standing where I was not wanted a mere 15 years ago, is difficult and conflicting. I still feel like a lesbian, Jewish, pioneer mom many times a week. Crossing out ‘father’ on forms, trying to find ways to be honest but not embarrass someone asking if my child’s hair or eye color is from their Dad. Mostly benign, easily ignored. And then there’s been the rough days. The homophobic Facebook messages from a father in our community. The awkward conversations where I’ve been asked to justify my very right to have children…. poolside…. at a casual get together. There is still work to be done.

And so, this is all a very long-winded appeal for your participation in some programming that is being introduced at CBT for Pride month this June. There will be a family Pride themed Shabbat adorably called Shabbarba-LGBTQ and a program led by Keshet (an organization that works towards equality for LGBTQ individuals in Jewish life). It will be a workshop studying Jewish texts to learn how to better incorporate LGBTQ Jews into our kehilla.

So please come to the Shabbat and Keshet events. Let’s eat together, learn together, perform the mitzvah of Avahas Yisrael (love of one’s fellow Jew) together. Let’s make a community where all Jews, in all their diversity, feel they belong and are accepted. Where the next generation of LGBTQ Jews, watching from their seats at family Shabbat, their spots in Jr Congregation and their classrooms in religious school see the work that our generation is doing to come together and “Let the good in me connect with the good in others, until all the world is transformed through the compelling power of love.” – Rabbi Nachman of Breslov

Page 5

www.bnaitikvah.org

Page 6

www.bnaitikvah.org

Page 7

www.bnaitikvah.org

What Does it Mean to be a Jew

THE RABBI’S DESK

BY RABBI ROBERT L. WOLKOFF

Scientific researcher Jared Diamond relates the following story: He was working with Maori, an incredibly intelligent and talented tribal people from New Zealand.

They asked him this question: Why is it the West that brings cargo to the Maori, and not the Maori that brings cargo to the West? “Cargo” in this sense refers to all the sophisticated industrial and technological goods that Western civilization has developed and transported to supposedly “primitive” cultures the world over. It was in pursuit of an answer to that question that Diamond researched and wrote his crucially important book Guns, Germs, and Steel, from which this story is quoted.

One could imagine the nations of the world asking a similar question about Jews. How is it possible that this little people (0.2% of the world’s population) has contributed so much to humanity? Just for the record, Jews: have won 22% of all Nobel Prizes; constitute 54% of world chess champions; are 50% of non-fiction Pulitzer Prize winners (for the record, Pulitzer was Jewish, too); developed enough medical inventions and discoveries—pacemakers, recombinant DNA molecules, cholera, polio, and plague vaccines etc., etc., etc.—to have saved an estimated 3 billion lives.

There is only one reasonable answer to this question, the thing that makes Jews utterly unique: Torah. Other people have suffered, have a strong family structure, have good values, etc.—all the usual answers when it comes to Jewish excellence. But Torah is ours and ours alone.

Shavuot, the anniversary of the giving of the Torah, is coming, and with it, our annual late night study session. This is a great opportunity to deepen our understanding of who we are, where we are going, and what we are tasked with doing in this world.

I had the privilege of celebrating Shavuot in Jerusalem in 1977, when I was still studying for ordination. My classmates and I studied literally until just before sunrise. Then we put on our tallitot and began our walk to the Kotel. From every building we passed, men were emerging, joining us in our march with a singular purpose. By the time we got to the Kotel, the sun was rising, and there were 100,000 people celebrating the giving of the Torah.

[CONTINUED ON PAGE 8]

Page 8

www.bnaitikvah.org

[CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7]

FROM THE RABBI CONTINUED

It would be unrealistic to expect anything so dramatic here in New Jersey (besides, where would we march to? Costco? IKEA? Woodbridge Mall? The Stone Pony?). But we can do something just as important. And what is that? Rededicate ourselves to the pursuit of noble ideas.

More than anything else, it is this pursuit that not only allowed for our survival, but gave meaning to it. As leading Jewish thinker Donniel Hartman of the Hartman Institute pointed out: “We have become a people motivated and guided by crises,” like Gaza, college protests, and assimilation.

We put our energy into quenching temporary fires, rather than in pursuing the ideas that constitute the crowning achievement of human civilization.

When compared to “all human beings are created in G-d’s image,” “justice, justice shall you pursue,” “choose life,” and “you shall not stand idly by the blood of your brother,”—when compared to ideas like these, being a keyboard warrior on Facebook or kvetching about MTG/AOC (pick your poison) is a paltry pursuit, at best.

Again, as Donniel Hartman notes, “We need to recommit to being a people of great ideas.” This is what we will be doing on Sunday evening, June 1, when we explore this topic: WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE JEWISH? Shavuot, the Book of Ruth, Am Yisrael, Jewish Identity and Conversion, and Erasive Anti-Semitism We will begin with services at 8, followed by study and nosh until 11:30, and then continue at my home at midnight. Please join us, and raise Torah (and ourselves) to new heights!

– Rabbi Robert L. Wolkoff

Page 9

www.bnaitikvah.org

Be A Happy Jew!

CANTOR’S CORNER

BY CANTOR BRUCE ROCKMAN

I love Judaism because our religion brings purpose and meaning to everything that we do. As a cantor, one of the coolest things that I get to do is to organize musical events. Concerts are so uplifting; a recent report documents that concerts add years to our lives! On November 9, 2025, the L’dor Vador Concert series will present Rick Recht, a friend, an American rock musician who was one of the early pioneers of contemporary Jewish rock music. Rick Recht will bring his contagious energy to the B’nai Tikvah bima, engaging us all and entertaining us with his powerful and warm musical style. The L’dor Concerts have always been great, each artist in their own original approach has enriched our lives, making Judaism more uplifting and all encompassing. In the coming months you will hear a great deal about Rick and the L’dor VaDor event as we plan it. I am so happy and excited about this concert!

I love Judaism because it’s mine. I understand, the world is broken, the world that we inherited is broken, what are we supposed to do about this? Fix it?!

Judaism offers us a blueprint, a treasure trove of methods to change the world. Our world is certainly a fixer upper but like those home shows on TV we endeavor to make this old place shine.

I recently read this anecdote in a book by Rabbi Shira Stutman “The Jewish Way to a Good Life”.

A few thousand years ago a bunch of rabbis were hanging out when a question was posed to them.

Which is greater: study or action? Rabbi Tarfon argued that the answer is action, because just sitting in a yeshiva studying all day is not going to fix this broken world. Rabbi Akiva said that study is greater. The rest of the group agreed with Akiva, but with a caveat: that study not be an end to itself. Instead, study is greater than action because it leads to action. Study is the planning and the forethought that makes action more effective.

We learn so that learning can lead to action.

The entire book is filled with Rabbi Stutman’s ever positive approach to Judaism. How about we read this book together?

[CONTINUED ON PAGE 10]

Page 10

www.bnaitikvah.org

[CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9]

CANTOR’S CORNER

CONTINUED

I love Judaism because it is my security. Being Jewish is intimidating at times. Getting to know our heritage makes us better equipped to thrive during complicated times. Each and every one of us have gaps in our knowledge, no exceptions, yet we all know how to be a mensch, how to be present for someone in need. Our enduring tradition has set an unbreakable foundation from generation to generation. The third pilgrimage holiday is upon us. Shavuot, the holiday that we celebrate receiving the Torah at Mount Sinai – not to be confused with Simchat Torah in the fall, when we celebrate the cycle of reading the Torah.

This time we concentrate on becoming the “people of the book”. This is the Torah that G-d gave to Moses and the People of Israel at Mount Sinai”. The Torah is our history, our heritage, and our roadmap to a meaningful life. Do you wonder why we celebrate by enjoying dairy foods**, especially ice cream from the Scream Truck - coming to CBT on Tuesday, June 3 at 4pm!?

The takeaways from this essay are.

1. Loving and learning about Judaism can help repair a broken world-Let’s Sing & learn together.

2. We’ll have more time to fix the world if we attend the Rick Recht L’dor Vador Concert on November 9th.

3. The Scream Truck on June 3rd will make you a happy Jew. 4. I love, you love Judaism!

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

Cantor Bruce Rockman, Please contact me, to discuss your exciting and meaningful journey.

732-297-0696 x115 ** Some derive the practice directly from the Torah , saying we eat dairy to symbolize the “land flowing with milk and honey” (Exodus 3:8) promised to the Israelites, or that “milk and honey are under your tongue” (Song of Songs 4:11). These passages, along with “The precepts of the Lord are… sweeter than honey” (Psalm 19:9-11) also indicate we should eat honey, which is customary in some communities.

Page 11

www.bnaitikvah.org

Page 12

www.bnaitikvah.org

Page 13

www.bnaitikvah.org

Page 14

www.bnaitikvah.org

DIRECTOR’S DIGEST

BY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR LESLEY LEWKOWICZ

This month, on June 12, CBT will host its first Pride Month program, welcoming a speaker from Keshet, a Jewish non-profit organization that works for the equality of all LGBTQ+ Jews and their families.

Having a program for Pride Month is something that the CBT leadership has talked about for the past few years, and we’re so excited to finally bring it to the community.

The program is designed for everyone. For ALL of our members, both young and old.

Single and married. Those who have children, those who don’t. Oh… and those who identify as Queer, and those who don’t. Those who have queer kids, those who have queer siblings. AND THOSE WHO DON’T. If you’re thinking that this is not a program that you will benefit from because “I’m not gay”, “I don’t have a gay child”, “I don’t have a gay sibling”, “I don’t interact with anyone who is gay”, you are very much mistaken. We ALL have something to learn, something to gain, from this program. If you think there is no one in your life that is gay, or has someone in their life that is, you are also very much mistaken. No one “comes out” to announce they, or their child is straight; don’t assume there will be a declaration that they, or their child is queer. This has nothing to do with embarrassment or shame. In their respective lives, it’s often typically just not a big deal, it’s just one part of who that person is, who that family is, or it’s been a part of their lives for so long that it wouldn’t ever occur to them to mention it.

My point…we are a community of all shapes and sizes. CBT professes to be a synagogue that welcomes ALL Jews into our community, that “all are welcome”. Combining that thought with the knowledge that we, as Jews, value education and learning, we have an opportunity to not just talk the talk, but walk the walk. So, on Thursday, June 12, at 6pm, join us for dinner (bring the kids, there will be babysitting after dinner), open your minds and hearts, learn a little, and together with ALL of our members, let each of them know we support them, love them, and stand next to them.

Shalom Ve’Ahava, Lesley Lewkowicz

Page 15

www.bnaitikvah.org

Page 16

www.bnaitikvah.org

Page 17

www.bnaitikvah.org

PRESIDENTS’ PODIUM

BY RUTH ANNE KOENICK & MARTY ABSCHUTZ In the Tale of Two Cities, Charles Dickens began with “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times” and that was how we thought about starting our HaKol article for the June HaKol. When Marty and I discussed it, we decided on the Best of Times. So here goes some of what made this past year so good.

1. We were truly fortunate to receive a $100,000 NJ State security grant that will help us expand our ability to create a safe and secure building. The security grant will help us harden our entry points, exit points, and increase our ability to have eyes on various parts of our property. Every time a suitable state or federal grant is available, we submit an application. And, fortunately, we often succeed in receiving a security grant.

2. We celebrated a fabulous Gala to honor the long-time and important contributions that Adrienne and Andy Ross have made to CBT through the years.

3. Evan has enhanced the beauty of the social hall and the kiddush room with a change in the floor of the social hall and the kiddish room ceiling.

4. We were fortunate to host an evening with the star of Fauda, Yaakov Zada-Daniel. Thank you to Howard Gases, NJ Regional Director for the FIDF. Yaakov Zada-Daniel answered questions from the attentive audience and the entire evening was interesting and informative.

5. We are celebrating PRIDE Month with two events. On Friday, June 13 we will celebrate with a Shabbarba…LGBTQ Dinner. It will be the last dinner of our monthly series; stay tuned for next fall’s offerings. We will also have a wonderful program on June 12, complete with dinner and a presentation by Keshet, an organization that works for the full equality of LGBTQ+ Jews and families into Jewish life. You can register for this by emailing the office.

One Save The Date to know is Sunday morning, July 27, for the first casual CBT Trail ride. Details to follow.

Please join us on Monday, June 23, for our Annual General Membership meeting at eight PM. Even better, join us for minyan at 7:30. The membership meeting features our 2025-26 budget and the 2025-26 nominating slate for our Board.

We hope to see you at any or all of the above events.

B’Shalom, -- Ruth Anne & Marty Co-Presidents

Page 18

www.bnaitikvah.org

Thank you to all the CBT families who’ve donated to Yellow Candles. Your continued support helps fund programs and Yom HaShoah education.

On Sunday, May 4th, Sid Baumgarten shared his experiences as an Assistant District Attorney, Assistant to the Mayor(s) of NYC, and the founder and Director of the Midtown Enforcement Project. Thank you Sid for your service in keeping NYC and midtown Manhattan safe!!

CBT Men’s Club Go-Kart racing at SuperCharged, Edison.

Future Meetings and Events: June 1st at 10am – General meeting/planning and breakfast June 8th TBD - Planned Nature Hike led by Craig Cohen.

Summertime fun - TBD 1)Working Dog Winery wine and cheese open event.

2)Family Hike/walk(s) at area trails and parks.

3)Minor League Baseball 4)Local Museums We are always happy to welcome new and our existing members. Stop by and join us for some great events, camaraderie, schmoozing and a schmear.

Page 19

www.bnaitikvah.org

Page 20

www.bnaitikvah.org

Yom HaShoah Candle Program The Men’s Club thanks everyone for their donations to our annual Yellow Candle program, commemorating Yom HaShoah. We have received donations from 67 families totaling almost $2100! The donations varied from $5 up to $180! Thank you all who have donated thus far. If you haven’t done so yet, your donations can still be mailed or delivered to the CBT office.

Page 21

Wrapping Up a Wonderful School Year

www.bnaitikvah.org

TEACHER TIDBITS

BY RONIT BIVAS, DIR. OF EDUC.

As we close the chapter on this school year, it’s hard to believe how quickly the time has flown. When I first began reflecting on the past months, only a few major moments came to mind. But as I put together photos for our end-of-year slideshow, I was reminded of just how full, joyful, and meaningful this year has truly been.

From school-wide celebrations like Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israel’s birthday) to cherished family experiences like our Passover program, our students and their families participated in hands-on, memorable events that deepened their connection to Jewish life and tradition.

Our incredible teachers—and their wonderful assistants—deserve special recognition. They brought Jewish learning to life through creative projects, engaging games, and thoughtful lessons. Whether teaching about holidays, Hebrew reading, or the importance of community and values, they made every day meaningful and fun for our students.

One especially heartwarming highlight was our Purim visit to The Gardens at Monroe nursing home. Our students helped spread joy to the residents—a beautiful mitzvah and a meaningful way to connect with the broader community.

A heartfelt thank you goes to everyone who made this year so special: our dedicated teachers, our Cantor for leading tefillah each week, our Rabbi for engaging with our older students, to Lesley for all her help with logistics throughout the year and Julio for keeping our building clean and ready for learning every day. A special shout out to Mike Atzbi, VP of School and Youth for his support and commitment. It truly takes a team, and we are so lucky to have a great one.

As we head into summer, my hope is that our students and their families carry with them a deeper love for Jewish life. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back next year for more learning, growing, and celebrating together!

Wishing you a wonderful summer!

-- Ronit

Page 22

www.bnaitikvah.org

Page 23

www.bnaitikvah.org

Sisterhood needs you!

Yes, you!

Did you know that Sisterhood has given thousands of dollars to the synagogue for things such as the renovation of the sanctuary, the electric sign in front of the building, and many other miscellaneous items? When called upon, Sisterhood steps up.

Did you know that Sisterhood makes donations to outside organizations like our local food banks, Jewish Family Services, women’s shelters and to whatever organization a donation from our bima flowers fundraiser has been chosen?

Did you know that Sisterhood makes donations to our youth programs and religious school?

Wouldn’t it be great if you could be a part of all that? Just by paying your dues, you are!

What we need now are women who want to get their hands dirty, so to speak. As in any organization, volunteers are always needed. Many of the programs that we hold require a minimal amount of time. Shopping and setting up for a program are just a few examples.

We could call everyone, and this is going to be done on some level from WAM in the upcoming months. We hope that this article will encourage you to make a call (let’s face it, you are more likely to send an email and that is perfect!) to US, to Sisterhood, saying that you can’t wait to get involved!!

The year is winding down, but for us, it means that we need to get started thinking about programs and fundraisers for the coming year. We already have a few ideas in the hopper, but we would love your input as well. Get involved. Make your dues count!

If you are interested in volunteering (in the short term or the long), please contact Marci Abschutz. Looking forward to having fun with you as we volunteer together!

Page 24

www.bnaitikvah.org

High Holy Day Yizkor/Memorial Booklet

We are preparing the Yizkor/Memorial booklet that is used at our Yizkor services on Yom Kippur and throughout the year. This year, we are doing our submissions a little differently. Forms are not being mailed out, except to those who do not have computer/email access.

Therefore, at the bottom of this letter, you will be able to click on the link from this past year’s Yizkor Book, for your review. If you have names listed in this current year’s Yizkor book, please click on Yizkor book link to view the book and review those names. If there are no changes to your listing, please note that on the Yizkor Book form (NEXT PAGE) where indicated. If there are any changes, whether it be to a correction of spelling, an addition or deletion of name, or order of names, please note that, as well, where indicated on the form.

Regarding the form itself, you can submit one of the following ways: You can print the form, print clearly and either scan and email it back, or mail a hard copy to us.

If you have the capability, you can fill in the fields directly in the PDF, save and email it back, or again, mail a hard copy.

A donation of $18 for each name is suggested for this remembrance.

Your dues should be current prior to this payment. You can make your payment via Zelle, by emailing: Lesley@bnaitikvah.org, by check or by credit card (there is a 3% cc fee with all credit card payments).

Please return this form no later than July 1, 2025 to be included in the printing of this book. The deadline is firm.

Page 25

www.bnaitikvah.org

YIZKOR BOOK FORM – 5786

Please fill in one of the two bulleted options (as well as the bottom of the form) For those with names in the previous year’s book: Everything is correct and stays the same ______ OR Please make the following corrections/additions/deletions:

For those who have not had names in the Yizkor Book before now: Please include the following names in this year’s Yizkor Book (please list the names in the order in which you want them listed):

(Please use the back of the form if you need more room)

Total # of names to appear in book __________ Submitted by: ________________________________________________________ (as you would like your name to appear in the Yizkor Book) An $18/name donation is suggested. You can make your payment via check, credit card, or Zelle. Dues and other financial assessments should be paid in full.

Amount paid $__________________________ Method of Payment: Check#_______ CC_______ Zelle______ Funds on File________

Page 26

www.bnaitikvah.org

Page 27

Our advertisers help support us!

Please support them with your patronage!

www.bnaitikvah.org

Page 28

www.bnaitikvah.org

Page 29

www.bnaitikvah.org

CBT Cleanup Committee Everyone who has lived in a home for more than a few years knows that as time goes on, you tend to accumulate…stuff. Well, the same is true for our Congregation. We’ve been in our home on Finnegans Lane for over 40 years. And if you look in the closets and storage areas, you’ll find some really important things, and some items that look like they were last touched in the 80’s or 90’s.

We’ve decided that it’s time for cleanup. Our plan is for a 3-step process: 1.Step 1 will be for us to do a walk-through and assessment of the building and grounds. For this step, we will go through the entire building, to identify items that must be retained, and what can and should go. In addition to Lesley, the Rabbi and Cantor, all of the VPs and representatives from Men’s Club and Sisterhood will all be an integral part of this process.

2.Step 2 will be to actually get rid of the items that we don’t need. Of course, any religious items will be donated, buried, or relocated to an appropriate new home.

We will try to donate any items that might be useful to other groups. Anything else will go in a dumpster. This will probably be over the course of a few days/evenings.

3.Step 3 will be to organize what’s still in our storage areas and catalog what is where, so that we know what we have, and where to find it when we need it.

We could definitely use some volunteers to assist with Step 2 & Step 3. We hope to do this work over the summer, specifically during a “CBT Cleanup Week” sometime between July 13th and August 3rd. The summer timing will give us a few months to prepare, and allow us to do the work when the Chabad school is on summer break and when Classical Caterers will also be on a brief hiatus.

If you’re interested in helping out, please contact me directly Thank you!

Scott Kessler VP Administration

Page 30

www.bnaitikvah.org

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.

Page 31

www.bnaitikvah.org

There are many ways to feel part of a community.

Congregation B’nai Tikvah provides many programs to support your community. And the Bikur Cholim committee works hard at its part in this community.

We are a small committee but passionate about reaching out to those who are ill, convalescing, and rehabilitating.

By letting the office or someone on the committee know of a congregant's medical situation, we would reach out to them and provide another hand to connect them to our community.

Page 32

www.bnaitikvah.org

PICKLEBALL

Page 33

www.bnaitikvah.org

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.

Page 34

www.bnaitikvah.org

Page 35

www.bnaitikvah.org

Page 36

www.bnaitikvah.org

Page 37

www.bnaitikvah.org

Member News The congregation extends heartfelt condolences to: Caryl Distel on the loss of her beloved husband, and our dear member, Dave Distel Jerry Edley, Abby Edley and Scott Edley, on the loss of their beloved wife and mother, and our dear member, Phyllis Edley May G-d comfort them among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem

The congregation extends a hearty Mazel Tov to: Nancy Asher-Shultz and David Shultz on the birth of their granddaughter, Lily Mae Kobb Natasha Rosenbaum on the birth of her great-granddaughter, Emmy Rose Harper Diane and Jordan Rosuck on the birth of their first great-grandchild (and Kim and Chris Riemann’s grand-nephew), Griffin Tyler Rosuck

The congregation extends heartfelt thanks: Thank you to Isaac and Beverly Grodzinski for the donation of office and building supplies. We are so appreciative of everything that you have donated!

Thank you to Phyllis Saltzman for donating a Smart Board for CBT to use. Our school and other committees/groups will absolutely be making good use of this!

Thank you to Bonnie Stevens and Arline Kane for donating your time in our office.

We are so appreciative of your help and we LOVE having your company!

Page 38

www.bnaitikvah.org

June Calendar

1st - 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM - Members Day Out 1st - 10:00 AM - Sundays with Stacey - JWLT 1st - 8:00 PM to 11:30 PM at CBT, followed at Rabbi Wolkoff’s home from 11:30pm and onwards - Shavuot Evening Service and Program 2nd - 10:00 AM - Shavuot Morning Service (Day 1) 3rd - 9:30 AM - Shavuot Morning Service (Day 2) 3rd - 4:00 PM - Scream Truck 4th - 8:00 PM - CBT Board Meeting 9th - 6:00 PM - Sisterhood Women of Achievement - WLJC Gala 10th - CBT Book Club 12th - 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM - Pride Month Program 13th - 6:30 PM - Shabbat Dinner – Shabbarba-LGBT-Q. 14th - Shabbat Lunch and Learn 16th - 8:00 PM - Sisterhood Board Meeting 23rd - 7:30 PM - Annual Membership Meeting 27th - 6:30 PM - Installation of the CBT Boards & Dinner Celebration

Page 39

www.bnaitikvah.org

DONATIONS

DONATIONS RECEIVED APRIL15TH THROUGH MAY 14TH, 2025

Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund Eleanor & Joel Weisenberg, in memory of Cheryl Asnis’s brother, Sam Kaplan Janis & David Hoffman, in memory of David’s beloved mother, Rose Hoffman Eileen Zweig and Family, in memory of her beloved husband, Martin Zweig, and in appreciation of Rabbi Wolkoff, for his support during the loss of their beloved husband and father Marci Oslick & Philip Welsher The Engel & Kaminsky Families, in honor of Martin Engel’s 95th birthday Jill Stone, in honor of the birth of Nancy Asher-Shultz and Dave Shultz’s granddaughter, Lily Mae Kobb Adrienne & Bruce Rogove, in memory of Bruce’s beloved father, Everett Rogove Mitchell & Arlene Frumkin, in memory of Mitch’s beloved father, Alfred Frumkin Lynn & Arthur Biderman, in memory of Lynn’s beloved mother, Rosalie Goldberg Lynn & Arthur Biderman, in memory of Lynn’s beloved father, William Goldberg

EXPERT ADVICE

Cantor’s Special Fund Joyce & Gerald Fishelberg, in memory of Joyce’s beloved mother, Ruth Gurtov Eileen Zweig and Family, in memory of her beloved husband, Martin Zweig, and in appreciation of the love and support of Cantor Rockman, all throughout the difficult time Marci Oslick & Philip Welsher Toby & Gary Ehrlich, in memory of Toby’s beloved mother, Anne Brown Toby & Gary Ehrlich, in memory of Jerry Edley’s beloved wife, Phyllis LouAnne & John Wolf, in honor of the birth of their granddaughter, Maya Wolf Schwartz Lauren & Marvin Stark, in appreciation of Cantor Rockman’s service for Betty Stark’s unveiling (Continued)

Page 40

www.bnaitikvah.org

DONATIONS Allen Karp Fund for Music Ilene Karp & Family, in memory of Ilene’s father-in-law, Leon Karp General Fund Beverly Mazzaro, in honor of her 98th birthday Marcia & Gary Wesalo Yahrzeit and Tzedakah Fund Barbara Mailman, in memory of Pearl Kublin Barbara Mailman, in memory of Samuel Mailman Marcia & Gary Wesalo, in memory of Irving Stein Bonnie & Rob Rizick, in memory of Lloyd Fingerman Debbie Stein & Family, in memory of Barbara Stein Joyce & Joel Gerbman, in memory of Annette Weinstein Ellen, Jerry, & Alissa Platz, in memory of Shirley Lepowsky Bonnie & Marc Eisenberg, in memory of Frances Meyers Marc & Bonnie Eisenberg, in memory of Marc’s beloved father, Gerald Eisenberg Gary & Kerry Halpern, in memory of Gary’s beloved mother, Gloria Halpern Gary & Kerry Halpern, in memory of Gary’s beloved father, Harold Halpern Irwin Kalet, in memory of his beloved father, Harry Imber

EXPERT ADVICE

Arnie Miller Youth Activity Fund Phyllis Horlick and Family, in memory of Elaine Klein Susan Miller, in honor of the birth of Nancy Asher-Shultz and Dave Shultz’s granddaughter, Lily Mae Kobb Ruth-Ann Breitler Bikur Cholim Fund Helene & Gary Tinkel, in memory of Gilda Gittleman Marci & Marty Abschutz, in honor of the birth of Nancy Asher-Shultz and Dave Shultz’s granddaughter, Lily Mae Kobb

(Continued)

Page 41

www.bnaitikvah.org

DONATIONS Shabbat Luncheon Fund Terry & Sylvia Katz, in memory of Terry’s beloved father, Joseph Katz Sylvia & Terry Katz, in memory of Sylvia’s beloved father, Morton Shore Arlene & Arthur Cederbaum, in memory of Lena Dunayer Gaye & Alan Feinberg, in memory of Jonathan Dennis Lisa & Jeff Tannenbaum, in honor of the birth of LouAnne and John Wolf’s granddaughter, Maya Wolf Schwartz Adrienne & Andy Ross, in honor of the birth of LouAnne and John Wolf’s granddaughter, Maya Wolf Schwartz Adrienne & Andy Ross, in honor of the birth of Nancy Asher-Shultz and Dave Shultz’s granddaughter, Lily Mae Kobb Phyllis & Allen Pinsky, in memory of Phyllis’ beloved father, Max Rubenstein Phyllis & Allen Pinsky, in memory of Phyllis’ beloved mother, Belle Rubenstein Allen & Phyllis Pinsky, in memory of Allen’s beloved father, William Pinsky Robyn & Dan Hohenberg and Family, in honor of Sarah and Brandon’s upcoming wedding, and in appreciation of Congregation B’nai Tikvah and Rabbi Wolkoff and Cantor Rockman’s service in performing the Aufruf for Brandon and Sarah on June 29 Gale & Marc Dillman, in memory of Irene Buchbinder

EXPERT ADVICE

Religious School Fund The Katronetsky & Yares Family, in memory of Joseph Cohen Janice & Art Baer, in honor of the birth of LouAnne and John Wolf’s granddaughter, Maya Wolf Schwartz

(Continued)

Page 42

www.bnaitikvah.org

DONATIONS Jodi Wexler Marcou Social Action Fund Marci and Marty Abschutz, in honor of the birth of LouAnne and John Wolf’s granddaughter, Maya Wolf Schwartz Amy & Cliff Smith, in memory of Jannet Horowitz Marcia & Gary Wesalo, in memory of Gilda Gittleman Rose & Jeff Berger, in memory of Berney Berger Lisa & Richard Seidman, in memory of Benjamin Appel Ruth Appel, in memory of Benjamin Appel Sherry & Steve Talmud, in memory of Rodney Shapiro Beverly Heller, in memory of Dave Distel Renee & Stephen Juro, in memory of Lew Ackerman Jay Scheuer Herb Mars & Family, in memory of Herb’s beloved brother, Howard Robyn & Dan Hohenberg and Family, in honor of Sarah and Brandon’s upcoming wedding, and in appreciation of Congregation B’nai Tikvah and Rabbi Wolkoff and Cantor Rockman’s service in performing the Aufruf for Brandon and Sarah on June 29 Eileen & Jeffrey Eisenberg Debbie & Scott Rekant, in honor of the birth of Nancy Asher-Shultz and Dave Shultz’s granddaughter, Lily Mae Kobb

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.

Page 43

www.bnaitikvah.org

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

Page 44

www.bnaitikvah.org

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 (June 6th & 20th) 7:30 PM (June 13th & 27th) Shabbat 9:30 AM