FIRST HEBREW CONGREGATION (FHC)

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Every day is a victory

2010-02-19T14:54:00.004-05:00

It has been quite some time since I last posted to the blog. As the saying goes, when one thing ends another thing begins. When I completed my term as Pres. of FHC, other things immediately started filling the time. Not always positive things. I lost a dear friend to Cancer, my son Noah has had "issues" and my father is currently in the hospital dealing with various serious health issues.

Life is not always easy, nor simple. Things do not always go the way we planned, hoped or dreamed. Sometimes it is work related; often it is family related.

Nevertheless, we must push on, fight the fight, and have the courage to meet the new day.

I will try and find time to post more, to take more pictures, and to be more involved.

I have not left the scene since I have, from time to time, been involved behind the scenes on certain issues and I have tried to attend FHC events and services where time permits.

Since every day is a victory, let me commend all of you for coming in first today and everyday that you are in the game, fighting the fight.

Shalom.

Jeremy

chanuka

2009-12-11T16:29:00.003-05:00

Not much time before sundown. Rushing to get things done.

Want to get that Chanuka Hannukah Chanukah Hanuka etc feeling going.

Enjoy the holiday. Make your home smell like latkes and the light of the candles provide warmth.

Shalom to all.

Jeremy

live long and prosper

2009-09-20T19:42:00.002-04:00

I have been advised that the priestly benediction was done, for many years, with two hands over the person with the fingers spaced with two fingers on one side and the other three (which includes the thumb) on the other side.

An orthodox Jew, by the name Leonard Nimoy, made the hand display well known to Jews and non-Jews alike by using it in original Star Trek. He then added the line LIVE LONG AND PROSPER as a vulcan salutation.

Was the salutation that much different from the intent and purpose of the priestly benediction? I think not. But, I am not a Rabbi, nor do I profess to have the knowledge and expertise of a Rabbi. Obviously, the "Vulcan" hand sign together with the saying "live long and prosper" has taken on its own life and longevity.

But, if we think about the "Vulcan" saying, it may have a value to Jews as we enter the New Year.

Live long certainly can imply that we are being inscribed in the book of life for another year and, hopefully, for many more. And to prosper should mean that we are good Jews and that whatever we do, we must pursue our hopes and dreams and at the same we must try and help others to live long and prosper.

Over the weekend (after going to visit a terminally ill cancer patient in NYC), we had the honor of per chance meeting with Leonard Nimoy a/k/a SPOCK on the street. He was very nice and it was, without doubt, a pleasure to meet him and briefly talk to him.

As we start the New Year we did a mitzvah of visiting a patient at Mt Sinai who is very ill. That mitzvah was apparently rewarded by the kismet visit with Leonard Nimoy.

To all of my FHC family, Star Trek fans, and others in general I wish you all a Happy and Healthy New Year, and I wish you to Live long and Prosper.

Shalom.

Jeremy

Jewish Death

2009-09-14T12:57:00.002-04:00

While we should always remember the family members and friends who have passed away, this is again that special time of the year when we enter our family members into the Book of Remembrance, look to the memorial board to view the names, and make the obligatory and customary trip to place the stones on the graves of the departed. All of these things are very somber, sad and meant to evoke feelings of loss and emptiness that the person you cared for is no longer with us.

However, it would be nice if someone came up with a more upbeat method of remembering the departed. It would be nice if the rituals that conjure up our memories of the departed brought a smile to our face, made us happy. If the death and remembrance rituals that we do could somehow be made to evoke happiness and joy, maybe those rituals would be things that we could look forward to and not feel the heavy burden of sadness and remorse.

Do not misunderstand what I write. I am not suggesting that the loss of a loved one should be thought of as a joke. I am not suggesting that we should not say Kaddish or not do the traditional things we, as Jews have done for hundreds, if not thousands of years.

Now I know that when I pass, and I hope it will be a long time from now, there is not going to be a huge outpouring of sadness. (For some, that could be interpreted in several ways.) Hopefully, my contemporaries will not be there, for as Frank Sinatra once said to Dean Martin, "I hope you live to be a hundred and I am one of your pallbearers." But seriously, I would not want a huge outpouring of sadness. Rather, I would prefer a nice Jewish service, with a kosher casket (if possible, made by Rubbermaid so that my remains remain), and I would want a procession with all the music and trimmings of a New Orleans funeral.

Although it is unlikely, I would love joyous singing and dancing, food, wine and spirits to be served to all my survivors. I hope the joy would not be based upon my passing (although, if some people derive pleasure from that, so be it), but rather based upon my survivors recognizing my belief that my passing is merely another link in the chain of life and that the survivors should be steadfastly enjoying the time G-d has given each and every one of us on this place we call earth.

Am I making light of something somber? No, if anything, I am making light about by own demise. Could this philosophy be a defense mechanism to react to the concept of death. Certainly. However, as I get older, and presumably wiser, I have come to realize that being depressed, or sad or unhappy about loss is not anything better than flipping the concept on its head and making death a time to appreciate the life that has passed and the lives that still remain to carry on.

So I hope that we all live to be healthy and hundred and twenty and that if any of you survive me, you enjoy my demise. Not because you are glad to see me go, but because you enjoy my philosophy of trying to appreciate both life and death.

Shalom. Jeremy

Judaica

2009-09-07T21:36:00.002-04:00

When you look around your house do you see Mezuzahs on the doorposts? Do you see kiddush cups in the dining room cabinet? Do you see multiple menorahs? Is your library filled with books about Judaism, and/or by Jewish authors? Do your walls have Jewish artwork and pictures of Jewish events like your children's bar or bat mitzvah? If per chance you do not have this stuff in your house, you need to load up on your Judaica and make your "goyisha" home more Jewish. There is nothing to be afraid of and nothing to be ashamed of if your house lacks the Jewish touch. You can fix that problem by either visiting the Sisterhood Judaica shop, or alternatively, you can go online and "Jewup" your house. (My editor wanted me to add that the term "Jewup" is not meant in a derogatory manner and that it was only meant in jest. My editor also wanted me to add that your home should smell like brisket to help "it smell Jewish".)
I am pleased to say that unless you are completely oblivious to Judaica, you would know immediately that our home is a Jewish home. We have the mandatory Mezuzah at the door, the Judaica in the dining room and the Jewish artwork including Chagall lithographs and photos from bat mitzvahs. Even as I write this in bed on the laptop, I look across the room to a lithograph on the wall that states in Hebrew and in English "In pursuit of Justice".
That saying, I think, sums up one of my core beliefs about why we are here on this planet.
But, on another level, it is my belief that if you are Jewish, and your home does not feel Jewish, you are missing something. You are, in fact "not doing justice" to your home if it does not feel Jewish.
Look around your home. If it needs Jewish "chotkes", get them. Make your home feel and look like a Jewish home to do it justice.

Shalom.
Jeremy

Time and the grass

2009-08-31T22:15:00.003-04:00

For many of us the this time of year, the month of August into September 2009 has brought several distinct changes. My oldest daughter Amanda is back at college. She will not be home for the High Holidays, but it is my hope that Hillel and the local Chabad will take care of her. In the next few days, my other three children will be returning to school. Emily will be a senior in HS getting ready for the big move next year to a college that remains unknown. Noah will be heading off to Walden HS as a freshman, and Ethan will be off to Middle School. Ethan will be two years from his Bar Mitzvah, and it seems like only yesterday we were celebrating Noah's achievement.

With Facebook, e-mails and the like I am able to vicariously experience all the activities of the various people that have become part of my network of friends. I read about people ending their summer jobs, and going back to work. I read about trips taken, friendships made and even today my wife was telling me about a Jewish couple that met on FB and were about to get married until the prospective wife discovered that the future husband had not gotten divorced yet. It all sounds so interesting, different and exciting.

My daughter Emily has a great summer job. She works as a lifeguard making very good money for a 16 year old. The hours are long, but the paycheck is commensurate with the hours expended. Recently, she complained that the job was boring and that she wanted something more stimulating. It was an ironic conversation we had since I was of the opinion that the job she had was extraordinary and that she should be thankful. She, on the other hand felt that there was something better out there for her. When I tried to explain to her that summer jobs are scarce and that the summer job she had allowed her to bank the money so she would not have to work during the school year, I was unable to persuade her of my position. I even tried to explain to her that with any job there would be times when the job would not be stimulating, including my own, and that for many people what she was doing was an incredible adn important job with great compensation. I was dejected since my profession, in large part, is to persuade and convince people that my position is correct.

However, about an hour later Emily came to me and on her own stated that she felt that one of her personal issues may be that there is a feeling of discontent ( I would call it for some people chronic discontent), and that she had a belief that the other person, the other job, the other opportunity was better than what she had. She stated to me that she understood what I was saying and that while there were times when her job was boring, she understood other jobs could also be boring.

Although I sometimes feel that the other person has had more fun, a better summer, a better experience and better memories (FB pictures of friends and family experiences past for example), I am reminded of that simple saying, the grass is not always greener on the other side. My friendships, memories, experiences, jobs, etc are mine and those experiences are unique and special for me. My experiences, my friendships my good times and bad times are mine.

So, as anyone who has seen my lawn will concede, my grass is almost all crabgrass. But it is lush, green and mine. There are no brown spots and it grows and grows and grows. I do not use chemicals and while it may not be Yankee Staduim quality bluegrass, and my lawn may not be the envy of anyone on the block, I know that it is a lawn that the children in the neighborhood play ball on and enjoy. It is my lawn with all of the unique memories that have happened on my little plot of G-d's green earth. And, while others have their own little plots of green and their own experiences and memories, I take stock of my lot in life, count my blessings and thank G-d for my little green patch of grass. Upon reflection, I would not trade my lot of land, or my lot in life with anyone.

Shalom. Jeremy

New Post for a New Year

2009-08-26T17:14:00.003-04:00

It has been quite some time (March 09) to be exact since I last posted to the blog. I hope to resume blogging (or if I am advised that FHC's website is up and running, I will contribute there.
This is a test of my existing blog where I hope, back as a congregant, I can contribute commentary and photos the same way I have done since April 2005!

Shalom Jeremy

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Men's CLub Breakfast 2-08-09

2009-02-09T12:28:00.000-05:00

Here are some pictures from the Men's Club Breakfast downtown on 2-08-09. Thanks to all who attended. Thanks to all who prepared, cooked and cleaned up. We had a very nice turnout.

2009-02-09T12:24:00.001-05:00

Men's Club Breakfast downtown 2-08-09

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Happy Chanuka to FHC

2008-12-23T17:46:00.001-05:00

I have not posted in quite some time due to technical difficulties and being overwhelmed with things on my plate.

Let me wish everyone a Happy Chanuka and a wonderful secular new year.

I am hopeful that the best is yet to come....

Shalom. Jeremy

SPECIAL PRESIDENT BILL CLINTON BLOG ENTRY

2008-07-02T22:03:00.001-04:00

I have been asked to post some pictures of our family's special visit with President Bill Clinton. While these pictures have next to nothing to do with FHC, I do have a nexus with FHC to discuss. On July 1, 2008 our family met President Bill Clinton at his office in Harlem which fulfilled Noah's make a wish request to the Make a Wish Foundation. At the meeting we brought to President Clinton some presents. My lovely wife brought President Clinton baseball caps for the TS Alliance (which is the organization doing research to cure Noah's disease), and a baseball cap from the Make a Wish Foundation. Our family also brought him a personalized Buffalo Bills cap.

Having read several books about President Clinton and Senator Hillary Clinton, I was aware of their affinity for Eleanor Roosevelt. As some of you may be aware, back in the 1950's Eleanor Roosevelt spoke at FHC downtown and gave a private speech/lecture about world affairs at that time. Someone with great foresight recorded her speech and during our recent cleanup of FHC, several copies of the recorded speech were found. I made President Clinton and Senator Clinton a copy and at our meeting told President Clinton about FHC and that special private speech given by Eleanor Roosevelt. As Masoud was able to get the FHC Uptown 1957 event on You Tube, I would like to be able to get the Eleanor Roosevelt speech accessible to FHC. If anyone has any ideas (possibly a You Tube audio posting with pictures of Eleanor Rooevelt) let me know.

If anyone knows the date and/or year the speech was made, let me know. If anyone knows who recorded the speech let me know.

Anyway, the visit with President Clinton was, as Mastercard would say, "Priceless".

Shalom to all and have a great July 4th Weekend. Jeremy

6-1-08 BBQ

2008-06-02T16:49:00.000-04:00

2008-04-14T16:56:00.000-04:00

Table tennis is coming to FHC (looks like a half court game is already in the works)
Our beautiful display case (sorry for the "sideways" appearance.... I guess a glass of wine would do now...
the front check in for our very successful penny social
just some of the people who enjoyed the penny social

A FHC press release sent last week regarding antisemitism at Mohegan Park Jewish Center

2008-04-14T09:31:00.000-04:00

First Hebrew Congregation of Peekskill stands in solidarity with the members of The Mohegan Park Jewish Center in Lake Mohegan as well as sympathetic Christians, Jews, Muslims and individuals of all races, religions and nationalities who abhor racism, discrimination, anti-Semitism, bias crimes and violence in our country.

First Hebrew Congregation of Peekskill firmly supports the rights of all individuals to worship in peace without fear of harm and the desecration of their respective houses of worship. It is a sad commentary that racism continually rears its ugly head. As fellow Jews in Northern Westchester we denounce all acts of anti-Semitism as well as bias crimes against all people.

Let us work and stand together as a unified voice for all people who believe in religious freedom and the right as American citizens to pray and worship in peace without fear from elements of society that disrespect this truly American ideal. First Hebrew Congregation of Peekskill calls upon all religious organizations in our community to voice their opposition to such insidious conduct and to call for our elected officials and law enforcement to work together to fight this criminal and un-American blight in our community.

Jeremy Krantz, President
First Hebrew Congregation of Peekskill

Blood Drive a huge success

2008-03-26T15:45:00.000-04:00

The New York Blood Center has thanked First Hebrew Congregation of Peekskill for sponsoring a successful blood drive. Hudson Valley Blood Services advised FHC that it was grateful for the opportunity to have worked with First Hebrew to produce over 40 pints of blood, which have since been separated into their components and distributed to patients in hospitals throughout the area.

"It is from the community efforts and commitment of our friends and neighbors that enable us to meet the daily demand for blood products. There is no substitute for caring people who take the time to donate blood so that others may live. First Hebrew has greatly helped toward this goal."

On behalf of FHC, thanks to all who worked and donated blood for this event.... Shalom Jeremy

megillah reading pictures 3-20-08 FHC

2008-03-21T13:26:00.000-04:00

purim pictures 2008 Sideways

2008-03-19T16:58:00.000-04:00

More Purim pictures 2008

2008-03-18T13:44:00.000-04:00

Purim at FHC 2008 pictures

2008-03-18T12:42:00.000-04:00

MARCH 12, 21, 22, AND 24 MEET AND GREET RABBIS AT FHC

2008-03-07T15:05:00.000-05:00

Congregants:

With great anticipation, FHC provides the upcoming schedule of First Hebrew’s communal Rabbi candidate “greet and meet” events at our Uptown building. Your attendance at the following events is crucial because we need to present FHC in its best light to the candidates. They are, in essence reciprocal greet and meet opportunities.

Wednesday March 12, 2008 @ 7:30pm a special Mariv/Evening service will be conducted by Rabbi Benjamin Shalva, a member of the 2008 graduating class of the Rabbinical School of the Jewish Theological Seminary (coffee, cake and a teaching experience to follow)

On Shabbat Weekend March 21 and 22 we welcome to our community Rabbi Judah Kogen. Rabbi Kogen---an experienced pulpit Rabbi--will be leading both our Friday evening services and our Shabbat morning services. We will hold the Friday evening services (3/21) at a special time: 7:30pm, with a Kiddush to follow. Our Saturday morning services (3/22) will start as usual at 9:30am. A special luncheon will follow services: Rabbi Kogen will lead us in song and study.

Monday March 24, 2008 @ 7:30pm a special Mariv/Evening service will be conducted by Rabbi Avi Olitzky, a member of the 2008 graduating class of the Rabbinical School of the Jewish Theological Seminary (coffee, cake and a teaching experience to follow).

Please put these dates on your calendar and come to FHC.

Shalom. Jeremy

1957 FHC VIDEO NOW AVAILABLE ON THE BLOG AND YOU TUBE!!!!!

2008-02-11T11:53:00.000-05:00

CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO SEE THE 1957 VIDEO WHICH WAS SHOWN AT THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY GALA.

I WISH TO PROFUSELY THANK MASOUD RADPARVAR WHO WAS ABLE TO PLACE THIS VIDEO ON YOU TUBE TO MAKE IT AVAILABLE TO THE ENTIRE CONGREGATION AND WHOMSOEVER WANTS TO VIEW THIS AMAZING VIDEO.

SHALOM,

JEREMY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v1l0MY7QPLc

SHABBAT ACROSS AMERICA AT FHC

2008-01-19T07:25:00.000-05:00

On March 7, 2008 FHC will joins hundreds of other synagogues in the celebration of Shabbat. Join us for a warm inviting Friday night service followed by a delicious Shabbat dinner.

In addition to the family oriented and concise (ie short) Friday night service we hope to have singing and maybe some dancing to brighten the evening.

All are welcome and the cost of the food, wine, drinks and dessert is very affordable.

FHC is a great place to break the challah with your extended Jewish community.

Shalom. Jeremy

link to journal news video re Noah's bar mitzvah Check it out.

2007-12-10T10:28:00.001-05:00

http://www.thejournalnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/section?Category=VIDEO

JOURNAL NEWS ARTICLE ABOUT NOAH'S BAR MITZVAH AT FHC

2007-12-09T06:26:00.000-05:00

CLICK BELOW FOR THE LINK TO THE JOURNAL NEWS ARTICLE ABOUT NOAH'S AMAZING BAR MITZVAH. HE DID A GREAT JOB AND THE ARTICLE IS GREAT. SHALOM. JEREMY

http://www.LoHud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071209/NEWS02/712090370/1018/NEWS02

Blogging for over 2 and 1/2 years.....

2007-12-03T21:11:00.000-05:00

Recently, my son Noah has been surfing this blog (instead of studying for his Bar Mitzvah), and he has been enjoying the pictures and the blog entries. He mentioned to me that he did not see any new entries and that comment made me think of this blog and also where FHC is going. And it is my hope that both are going in the right direction.

It is hard to believe that I have been FHC blogging for over 2 and 1/2 years. There are over five hundred pictures of FHC related activities on this blog. In conjunction with that I have created a separate CD of the pictures that I hope we can show at some future event at FHC.

The blog has been extremely enjoyable for me. It has allowed me to create a diary of sorts for FHC, to chronicle events, to comment about FHC and our Jewish Community. While there have been a few less than positive comments about the blog here and there, the majority of the comments have been extremely positive. I know of one person who moved away from our area who repeatedly e-mails me and thanks me for doing the blog. To that person, I thank-you for your support and I am glad that you enjoy this blog.

I am truly excited about upcoming events to blog about in the coming months, which will allow me to post more pictures.

I am looking forward to our Chanuka party and candle lighting activities.

I am looking forward to our great Purim party.

While I cannot take pictures of Shabbat Across America, I hope this year the turnout will be great and I can write about the event.

We are trying to organize a celebration of Israel's 60th anniversary with a Mural making party with Israeli foods, music and dancing.

The future looks bright and I am confident that FHC will prosper in the coming years which will allow me to have additional content to post.

I am working on posting video. I do not profess to be the best at this activity, but slowly I hope that I can master placing video and sound content on the blog. I will enjoy the content and hopefully make surfing this blog more enjoyable.

Shalom. Jeremy

Hanukah at FHC coming up!

2007-11-21T15:08:00.000-05:00

First Hebrew Congregation invites you to the 2007 Hanukah lighting of the Menorah:

At the Gazebo in Downtown Peekskill: 12/9/07 Sunday

4:00 Gather at Treatstation train store for hot cocoa
4:30 Lighting at Gazebo
5:00 Party @ First Hebrew Congregation

At the JV Mall: 12/10/07 Monday @ 7:00 PM

Please join us!

Shalom.

Michael Kohel 11-18-07 Brunch at FHC PICTURES

2007-11-19T16:35:00.000-05:00

north County News link to pictures of 50th anniversary

2007-11-08T15:45:00.000-05:00

http://www.northcountynews.com/ncn_slideshows.asp

photos photos and some more photos

2007-10-16T17:34:00.000-04:00

Blogspot has changed several times the method to post pictures. I think I have figured it out. Please check out a bunch of pictures that have been taken over the summer and recently. They include the last day of school, a class by the Rabbi, Open house and apple picking with the Youth Group.

Hopefully I may be able to put video on the website in the near futute... We shall see. Enjoy the photos.

Shalom.

Jeremy

2007-10-16T17:33:00.000-04:00

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50th anniversary: An incredible historical find

2007-10-16T16:28:00.000-04:00

While getting things ready for the 10-21-07 50th anniversary Jubilee (which I am confident will be a huge success), we located an incredible tape cassette.

As some of you may know, the one and only Eleanor Roosevelt gave a speech at FHC downtown sometime in the 1950's. Inside a box containing FHC historical documents we located several copies of the cassette of her actual speech.

Over the weekend I had the opportunity to listen to the speech and from the references in the speech I guesstimate that it was given sometime in 1952-54 period. (If anyone knows the exact date, please advise.)

Her comments were eloquent, thought provoking and many of them are quite relevant today.

We have a beautiful and colorful history at FHC, and fortunately parts of that history have been preserved for future generations to listen to and to see.

I would like to somehow incorporate the Roosevelt speech into the Jubilee festivities. If anyone has any suggestions, please contact me.

Shalom.

Jeremy

Some thoughts

2007-10-05T14:25:00.000-04:00

As most of you are probably aware, I am currently the President of FHC. I receive advice and opinions from all corners. I have tried and will continue to try to have a balanced approach to various issues. One of those issues was my use of the blog. The vast majority of individuals I have spoken to and those who have e-mailed me have requested that I continue to utilize the blog as a forum for information, pictures and yes, commentary.

One person in particular pleaded with me to continue since she has moved away and it is a way for her to keep in touch with FHC issues and things.

In light of the requests that I have received, I will continue the blog entries, with a reduced emphasis on commmentary and a greater emphasis on information and (if I can figure out the revisions made by blogspot), more pictures. I will, from time to time, provide commentary since I compare this blog to a radio or TV talk by an elected official. It is another example of the bully pulpit in action. The primary emphasis, for the time being, will be information.

As most of you are also aware, our family has had a recent loss and at the same time we have been very busy with FHC matters. Obviously, the blog has taken a back seat. Let me take this opportunity to thank the FHC family for being so supportive at our time of loss.

Finally, I'd like to end this blog entry with some great news. I was advised by the Chair of the 50th anniversary jubilee committee that we have no less than 100 guests coming to the 10-21-07 jubilee. And we will welcome many many more. In addition, I have been further advised that the Journal is going to be a great fundraiser with many ad pages. I truly look forward to this event and it is because of the incredible dedication of the people who have and continue to work hard to make this event a reality.

Shalom.

Jeremy

Guest Writer to Blog (approved by writer's parents) Unedited. Enjoy!

2007-09-06T09:37:00.000-04:00

By: Becca Kissel

Over the summer, I went to a Jewish sleep away camp, Sprout Lake , and came back a true Zionist. Camp Young Judea Sprout Lake is loads of fun. It helped me make friends to last a lifetime. All the counselors are really funny and wacky, but that makes them a lot more likeable. We do lots of activities! Sprout Lake has a rock wall, a soccer field, two playgrounds, a pool, a creek (the nochal), a gaga pit (gaga is a fun Israeli sport that everyone loves to play.) and new things are added every year.

We follow Shabbat and add a little bit of Sprout into our festivities. The Friday night meal is always chicken with apple turnovers for dessert. Saturday we get to sleep late (and of course, since we’re allowed to, nobody does.) or play outside for a bit if we get up earlier.

The two longest days at Sprout Lake are Tyuill (Te-yul) and Maccabia. Tyuill is this five hour hike and camp out in the woods. It doesn’t sound fun, but I always liked it. At the campsite we gather firewood for that night and put up the tents. Then we eat. Finally, it’s night time. Before it gets too dark, we all get a little free time to star gaze or play a little flashlight tag, but then we have a camp fire. We roast marshmallows and sing songs. The next day we pack up and take a bus back to camp. Tyuill is always fun.

Maccabia is truly the most exiting (and the most tiring) day in all of camp. Maccabia is the COLOR WAR!! There are four teams; all of camp is separated into the four teams. Every bunk is separated, so you might not be with your bunkmates. Each Maccabia has a theme. That way, no Maccabia is ever the same. I’d love to tell you all more about Maccabia, but that would ruin the surprise and excitement of not knowing what’s going to happen during Maccabia!

That’s pretty much it. Camp was fun and taught me a lot about Israel and Judaism. At camp they added a little bit of Sprout into the after meal prayer. We add signs and little additions to make it fun! When I came home, I felt like a true Zionist. I will also miss my two best friends from camp, who won’t be coming back to camp, next year, Oded and Shakaf; they were two of my counselors. I learned the most from them. Shakaf taught me never to give up and that anything can be fun if I add a little Sprout. Oded taught me a very important lesson: don’t listen to what others say about you, you’re always you, and you can make a difference in the world. Make every moment, a moment to remember. Because of Oded, Shakaf and the rest of camp, I’m ready to take on the world, and Make A Difference In My Own Way.

THE END

It may be summer, but we are planning for the year

2007-08-09T17:48:00.000-04:00

To many, the hot humid days of summer are a chance to get away, vacation, spend some time at the pool, read a good book or just relax. But for many FHC members, we have been working to get FHC ready for its future.

Planning is underway for numerous projects and to address important issues and I am pleased to say that we are making headway.

I personally welcome any member's involvement and suggestions for FHC. I want all of our members to feel a part of the future of FHC and be a part of the FHC family.

In the meantime, read a good book, relax and drop me an e-mail. All three things are quite simple. rjkrantzbest@yahoo.com Click it and write to me.

Shalom.

Jeremy

Life's Experiences Direct Us....

2007-07-29T20:24:00.000-04:00

As some of you may be aware, my daughter Emily is at TY camp in Barryville, NY. After having received several letters from her, (the old fashioned paper kind), I am pleased to see that she is having a great time. She also advises that she is hanging around with British and Israeli Jews!!!

While I did not expect Barryville to be an international experience for my daughter, I find that experiences in life sometimes come to you when you least expect it.

In my profession, I am always having to move/change based upon the decisions of others, be it Judges, adversaries or even clients. But at the same time it gives me the opportunity to be flexible and willing to change with the current state of affairs.

We are a point in time when we need to be flexible, open to change, willing to take on new experiences and responsibilities. I am willing to take on new experiences and challenges. I welcome all readers of this blog to be open minded, flexible, open to change and willing to take on new experiences and responsibilities. I am very optimistic that FHC is ready to meet the future we will experience together.

Shalom.

Jeremy

FHC June 2007 Photos of BBQ-party

2007-07-12T17:08:00.000-04:00

My first comments as Pres. of FHC

2007-07-02T17:24:00.000-04:00

In my new capacity as Pres. of FHC I want to take this opportunity to thank the Congregation for placing its trust in me. I will try my best to do what I believe is in the best interests of FHC. My only agenda has been and continues to be what is in the best interest of FHC and its extended Jewish family.

We have already started to take positive and tangible steps in that direction. Hopefully our efforts will bear fruit.

In that vein, I welcome constructive ideas and communications that advance our Northern Westchester Jewish Community. I do not profess to have all the answers and often great ideas come when you least expect them and from unexpected sources. Please communicate your ideas to me. Whether you know me personally or not, or even like me or not, I hope to be there for all.

It is my hope that the next two years will be positive, productive and enjoyable. I realize that there will be mishagas along the way. However, it is my hope that we do not let mishagas distract us from the many tasks at hand.

The tone I wish to set for the next two years can be summed up as follows:

This is our congregation. Together, we can make it a better congregation.

Shalom.

Jeremy

HISTORIC MOVIE OF 1957 DEDICATION OF FHC UPTOWN FOUND!!!!!!!!

2007-06-24T22:23:00.000-04:00

In what can only be described as an incredible find, a movie of the 1957 dedication (converted to DVD) of the FHC uptown synagogue was donated to FHC. I will not state the names of the contributors of this incredibly historic movie, but needless to say the contribution is greatly appreciated. (I also thank the person from FHC who received it and then tendered it to me.)

This grainy color 8mm (I believe) short movie is literally a window into the past. Images of members from 1957, 1950's cars, a procession from the downtown shul in an open convertible.... I got the chills watching the images as they quickly passed before my eyes.

When I first suggested a 50th anniversary celebration of the uptown synagogue several years ago based upon my looking at the plaque which was displayed in the lobby before the renovation, little did I know that our 1957 founders would have the foresight to place a 1957 journal from the 1957 journal dance behind the plaque, only to be found while we were having the renovation work done.

Similarly, this historic movie, so graciously donated, demonstrates the vision of those involved with the 1957 dedication of the uptown Synagogue.

I anticipate this will be shown at the October 21, 2007 Jubilee honoring the 50th anniversary of the uptown synagogue. All are welcome to attend this historic evening.

Shalom

Jeremy

FUNDRAISING KEEPS DUES DOWN

2007-06-13T16:47:00.000-04:00

I have previously written about the tremendous benefits FHC gets from its fundraising. Bingo, Scrip, donations, are all important and are part of the lifeblood that keeps the lights on, teachers paid and the grass cut (in no particular order or priority)

Bingo is money generally derived from non-members coming to FHC to play Bingo. We need membership involvement to keep Bingo running and bringing in the revenue it generates!

Scrip is money derived from members getting 100% of their purchase price in the form of gift cards and the processing company provides FHC a percentage from vendors over and above the purchase price. As I have repeatedly stated, this is a no-brainer, and it has a huge potential for thousands of dollars more than what we are currently collecting.

Donations are generally derived from members who wish to give above and beyond their dues requirements. Donations are essential to FHC and if you need to adopt a charity, FHC is ready and it provides excellent documentation of donations for tax purposes.

Advertising for the Journal for our October 21, 2007 50th Anniversary event is money derived from non-members and members who want to place ads or purchase space in the Journal to commemorate the event and/or congradulate the honorees. I cannot emphasize enough the need to solicit ads and/or take out ads for the Journal. We have the original FHC Journal from 1957 and it is packed with ads from vendors, members and friends of members. We need the 2007 journal to be a successful reflection of our efforts. Every member of FHC should purchase an ad and sell ads. The ads sold to non-members HELP KEEP DUES DOWN. It is that simple.

The trustess and officers of FHC have tried to keep dues down and not to impose assessments. Fundraising and especially monies from non-members are critical to FHC. Solicit ads. Purchase an ad and buy your tickets to the 10/21/07 event.

The financial stability of FHC is not the sole obligation of the Board of Trustees or the Executive officers elected by the congregation. It is the obligation of all members.

This is your FHC. Sell and buy ads and attend this event.

It is that simple.

Shalom.

Jeremy

A religious institution is not a health club

2007-06-07T22:48:00.000-04:00

A religious institution is not a Health Club

My wife recently reinstated our family membership to the local health club. While I am not overly pleased with this decision since I have too much on my plate already and I do not believe my family will utilize the club enough to make it worthwhile, the membership in the club got me to thinking about how some people might consider their membership in a religious institution similar to a health club membership since they remain members until the services of the religious institution are no longer needed. For instance, once the children have grown and moved on, to many, the religious institution is no longer necessary in their lives.

In my opinion, this mindset of discontinuing one’s affiliation with a religious institution once it is expedient represents something inherently wrong in our society.

A religious institution is a not for profit entity owned by its members. It represents a foundation in the community, a place of moral direction and a sanctuary for the belief that humankind is something more than just an advanced animal species.

Personally I could care less if a health club closes, loses members, does not have a profitable season. In contrast, since I consider myself a joint owner (together with those in the past, present and in the future) of my religious institution, I take our successes and disappointments personally. I want my religious institution to thrive and remain viable and relevant in my community. I want it to make an impact on the morals and ethics of my children, the children around me, and certainly upon the adults as well.

Further, the more I volunteer and remain active at my religious institution, the more vested I feel in it as a living and breathing entity and not just a building. I will never have any feelings for a health club. I will never feel a sense of connection with a place that lacks a moral center.

I think we should all think about the need to vest and invest more of ourselves in the religious institution so that we can strengthen that sense of connection and community. While I know that personalities and politics concerning various issues sometimes overshadow the overriding purpose of a religious institution and cause one to question their allegiance to the religious institution, one may be able to turn those feelings around and recognize that such things provide more color and character to the religious organization and that we learn from such behavior and grow as a community.

I sometimes tell my oldest daughter the famous quote “adversity builds character”. While I hope that we can minimize adversity, there is no reason why it must discourage us or cause us harm.

Together we can use adversity to grow stronger and more unified as a community. That is my goal and hope for the years to come.

Shalom. Jeremy

Should the Blog take a hiatus?

2007-06-04T17:16:00.000-04:00

It has been suggested to me by at least one member of FHC that maybe the blog should take a hiatus if I become President of FHC. I am somewhat conflicted on the issue since I have been doing it for over two years.

I believe that the blog has been, overall, a plus for FHC members and their friends. At the same time, I can understand that using the blog for something more than an outlet for information/pictures, may be a distraction if I am President. I have been known from time to time to sermonize (or something akin to that).

I welcome reader comments, by e-mail. (Apparently most readers communicate with me by e-mail as opposed to leaving comments on the blog.) I would like your thoughts on whether I should place the blog on hiatus, limit the content to certain things during the next two years, or continue to use the blog as a bully pulpit for the opinions I hold near and dear to me.

Please advise this blogger...

Shalom.

Jeremy

EVERY DAY IS A VICTORY

2007-05-18T23:26:00.000-04:00

I do not know if the phrase "every day is a victory" is in fact my father's or something he heard or read somewhere, but I truly believe it is a saying that provides me comfort and hope each and every day. If someone knows its origins, please advise...

For all the mishigas (sp?) that goes on in my life, it is my mishigas. For all the stress my children put us through, it is our stress. And while sometimes I would like to pawn it off on someone, there apparently are no takers.

I guess the same could be said of a congregation. There will always be mishigas, but it is our mishigas. Alot of the self-inflicted mishigas we bring to bear on ourselves becomes part of the perception of a Jew and our Jewish heritage. We seem to be more inclined to attacking one another as opposed to protecting and growing the flock.

Yet, together with all the mishigas, there does come the occasional joys, the nachas, the satisfaction of completing a task, having a productive discussion, getting something done; advancing a positive moral and ethical agenda in the name of G-d.

So while the daily stresses of our personal lives, professional/business issues and FHC are certainly things that give our lives mishigas, we should try and take the mishigas in stride, learn from it and try to kvetch less and expend more of our energies on problem solving and not problem rehashing and reliving.

I truly hope that we can spend more of our time and energy in the future finding ways to grow the nachas and reduce the mishigas. Certainly that is my desire and hope. If not, I can always take comfort in knowing that no matter what, every day is a victory.

Shalom.

Jeremy

FHC from above

2007-04-25T17:21:00.000-04:00

No, I did not hire a helicopter to photograph FHC. As most of you may be aware, Google Earth provides free access to satellite photography. I thought it might be nice for us to look at FHC from above so that we can continue to improve what we have below.

Shalom.

Jeremy

2007-04-18T15:50:00.000-04:00

On behalf of my family, I want to thank those friends and family members who contributed to the 4-12-07 TSA gala.

While I know this blog entry is not directly related to FHC, I do know that several FHC members and friends made contributions to this event which is working to find a cure for my son's disease. For that, I truly appreciate their generosity.

Since the last post was not in the best of taste, I thought everyone might enjoy a beautiful picture of Julianne Moore (and me of course), the actress who continues to work tirelessly for TSA. The picture is from the the gala where Ms. Moore was an honorary chairperson together with Tiki Barber.

Shalom. Jeremy

WHAT A BEAUTIFUL SITE. HUH?

2007-04-17T17:21:00.000-04:00

ACN :: Matzo Man

2007-04-02T14:12:00.000-04:00

ACN :: Matzo Man

TOWN HALL MEETING 4/22/07 AT TEMPLE BETH EL, CHAPPAQUA, NY (READ BELOW)

2007-04-02T12:45:00.000-04:00

AIPAC
and
NOW ISRAEL
The Israel Action Committees of Northern Westchester

present a town hall meeting focused on
The State of the U.S.-Israel Relationship

Sunday, April 22nd 3:00 pmTemple Beth El 220 South Bedford RoadChappaqua, New York

As space is limited, advanced registration is strongly recommended.
For additional information or to RSVP, contact AIPAC Director for Westchester Ilana Decker at 212-750-4110 or idecker@aipac.org
or NOW ISRAEL Chair Dennis Monasebian at adee18fam@aol.com

October 21, 2007 50th Anniversary Gala: Lock it in to go!!!!!

2007-03-26T14:53:00.000-04:00

The 50th Annivesary Gala Committee met this weekend and the enthusiasm was terrific!!!!

We have commenced taking reservations for the gala and for journal ads and we are off to a great start.

Check your mail for more information concerning this event. Should anyone want more information, or is willing to help the Gala Committee, they can contact me and I will forward it to the Chairperson of the Committee, my lovely wife.

My e-mail is jkrantz@smithkrantz.com or rjkrantzbest@yahoo.com

Shalom.

Jeremy

construction blood drive wine sale 2007

2007-03-12T14:15:00.000-04:00

wine sale and blood drive

2007-03-12T14:14:00.000-04:00

purim 2007

2007-03-12T14:07:00.000-04:00

purim 2007

2007-03-12T14:05:00.000-04:00

purim 2007

2007-03-12T14:03:00.000-04:00

purim 2007

2007-03-09T12:12:00.000-05:00

SCRIP EARNS FHC $36,000 PER YEAR!!!!

2007-02-26T14:29:00.000-05:00

Now that I have your attention, read below.

Last night I had my daughter run our Scrip order over to the Scrip coordinator and I calculated that FHC will make about $40. on my order. That may not sound like much, but, if only 75 families were to do the same and it was done for a full year, FHC would earn $36,000. for the year. Certainly we can do even better with more involvement. I just gave the above example of what Scrip can mean for FHC.

That is correct. FHC can earn tons of money with no expense to the purchasers of the Scrip. You buy $100. worth of Scrip and you get $100. of value on a gift card usable at the store/vendor of your choice. FHC gets a percentage from the Scrip company.

In my case FHC made 32 dollars on my supermarket purchases and another 8 dollars on movie theater scrip; two things most of us do all the time.

This is a "no brainer" to contribute to FHC and to keep FHC dues down.

I urge everyone to purchase Scrip. In my opinion, there is simply no easier, less painful method of helping FHC make ends meet.

I would also like to point out that there is nothing stopping us from taking Scrip orders from non-members and making money on those purchases. Friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, etc.

Shalom. Jeremy

Plans and photos of FHC construction

2007-02-19T17:07:00.000-05:00

2007-02-19T17:06:00.000-05:00

photos

2007-02-19T17:05:00.000-05:00

status shots of construction

2007-02-19T17:04:00.000-05:00

BLOOD DRIVE MARCH 4, 2007 AT FHC

2007-02-12T14:25:00.000-05:00

First Hebrew Annual Blood Drive Sunday March 4th, 2007 9 AM – 3 PM

FHC continues our commitment to the community through the annual blood drive. In conjunction with Hudson Valley Blood Services, we hope to once again have a successful drive. Blood is urgently needed and our involvement helps save lives. We had a very successful drive last year and lets continue the momentum. Please call the temple at 914-739-0500, or 914-737-7499x221 to arrange an appointment. The process takes 45 minutes. Please bring ID and drink fluids. We thank you for your continued support. This is an important MITZVAH! Food and drink will be supplied. Remember, the Purim Carnival is running simultaneously with this event. Please have both parents come to participate. What a blast to come dressed up for the occasion!!! Shalom

Soup kitchen

2007-02-12T12:38:00.000-05:00

Thank-you for your terrific efforts in support of the soup (pasta) kitchen. Quietly, without fanfare our members make a difference.

Shalom.

Jeremy

SAVE THE DATE OCTOBER 21, 2007 5PM TO 10PM

2007-02-07T15:26:00.000-05:00

SAVE THE DATE: OCTOBER 21, 2007 FOR THE CELEBRATION OF THE THE FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE UPTOWN SYNAGOGUE AND THE 2007 RENOVATION OF THE BUILDING.

PUT THE DATE ON YOUR CALENDAR. MUCH MORE INFORMATION TO FOLLOW.

ALSO, ANYONE INTERESTED IN GETTING INVOLVED WITH THE PLANNING OF THIS EVENT CAN CONTACT MY WIFE AT RSKAENE@YAHOO.COM

THERE IS ALOT TO DO AND ALOT OF FUN AND EXCITEMENT AHEAD,

SHALOM.

JEREMY

Be still sad heart...

2007-02-01T18:29:00.000-05:00

Jews, in my opinion, have a funny way of looking at things. I, of course, include myself in that an analysis. We tend to look at things in a pessimistic way. We tend to see the glass as half empty, maybe with our distorted viewpoint, the glass is empty and we owe someone some liquids.

Often, when a Jew confronts a problem it is as if the world is coming to an end and there is no hope. Now this way of thinking probably is because of our history of suffering as a people, our position as the world's scapegoat, etc. I can understand how Jews tend to expect the worst so as not to be disappointed. But, do we have to continue in that vein? Is there some way we can decide, as a people, to have a more optimistic outlook, to at least see the glass as having water in it?

We must stop our collective sense of dour and sour and start seeing the positive and build on that. I am tired of the defeatist mentality. We must start thinking about turning our fecal matter into manure, our lemons into lemonade, our problems into solutions.

Believe me, as a parent of four children, with one child having a disability, I sometimes let myself wonder "why"? Fortunately, our one child's disability, for example, has and continues to refocus my vision on what is truly important and what are my objectives in this life. Most issues pale in comparison to health related issues and I make a point of reminding myself that every day.

As my grandmother used to quote the first two lines of a Longfellow poem:

Be still sad heart and cease repining;
Behind the clouds the sun is shining.

Of course the next few lines (which are not quoted herein), are not as uplifting, but that may have been why my grandmother only told me the first part.

Shalom.

Jeremy

An inspiring letter regarding one of our BAR MITZVAH projects. This was posted with the parent's permission in its entirety. Shalom. Jeremy

2007-01-22T13:24:00.000-05:00

Dear Congregants:
As part of my Bar Mitzvah project, I am helping to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. My cousin Amanda had Leukemia when she was 8 years old. She had to have chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant. She survived Leukemia but a lot of people don’t.

My mother Nancy,will be riding as part of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Team in Training Program. This is a large program that raises money for people with blood cancers. She will ride over 100 miles in honor of my cousin and together, we want to raise $4,200 to fight against cancer.

Please help us reach our goal by making a tax deductible contribution to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. You can mail your donation back to us at home, or go to the website below to make an online donation.

http:/www.active.com/donate/tntwhv/tntwhvNBrenne

All donations must be received by March 30, 2007.

Thank you for your support!

Josh Brenner
11 Hood Place
Cortlandt Manor, NY 10567

Sisterhood doing good deeds 1-21-07

2007-01-22T12:20:00.000-05:00

Construction Progress pictures 1-22-07

2007-01-22T12:19:00.000-05:00

A PHOTOGRAPHIC HISTORY OF THE CONSTRUCTION AT FHC. ENJOY. JEREMY

2007-01-08T17:52:00.000-05:00

I WAS ADVISED THAT NO ONE IS ASSIGNED TO TAKE PROGESS PHOTOS OF THE CONSTRUCTION. I GUESS THAT LEAVES ME AND MY TRUSTY CAMERA TO TAKE PHOTOS OF THE FHC MAKEOVER.

IF ANYONE ELSE WANTS TO TAKE PHOTOS AND POST THEM ON THE BLOG, OR ELSEWHERE, PLEASE DO.

FINALLY, WHILE WE ARE SEARCHING FOR A BULLETIN EDITOR, A DIGITAL HISTORY OF THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE BUILDING WILL BE OUR CHRONICLE OF THE PROGRESS.

I WOULD LIKE COMMENTS FROM ANYONE WHO WOULD BE INTERESTED IN HELPING TO PUBLICIZE THE TRANSFORMATION OF FHC AND GET SOME PRESS/MEDIA FOR US.

SHALOM. JEREMY

2007-01-08T17:51:00.000-05:00

2007-01-08T17:49:00.000-05:00

CAN YOU TELL WHERE THESE PHOTOS WERE TAKEN?

CHECK OUT THE PHOTOS

2007-01-08T17:48:00.000-05:00

CONSTRUCTION AT FHC 1-7-07 STATUS SHOTS

2007-01-08T17:46:00.000-05:00

Some of the folks who worked on the FHC moving day 12-19-06

2006-12-20T10:25:00.000-05:00

thanks to all who assisted in the move and to those who planned and worked on setting up this day and the renovation work that we all will appreciate down the road. (As you know, I try not to put in names unless permitted.) You know who you are and it is appreciated. Shalom in FHC. Jeremy

2006-12-20T10:20:00.000-05:00

the mess before the renovation