An unstaged consultation with the Rabbi 
Monday, October 17, 2005
Here is the interesting story
An interesting Story....
To break the Yom Kippur fast I went to my sister’s house. During the bagel course, I had a chance to speak to my brother-in-law, who happens to be a board member at a conservative shul in Harrison. We got to talking and he advised me that his shul had lost over 100 families in the last two to three years based upon internal bickering.
Since they were a congregation that was over 500 families and was now significantly less we started talking about what the Conservative movement needed to do in connection with membership.
I suggested that conservative congregations had to:
Advertise and have events that give people an opportunity to meet the Rabbi, get to know the Hebrew school, experience the religious services.
Use United Synagogue to assist in planning and devising a strategy for the retention of members and the growing of the conservative movement.
Refurbish existing conservative shuls to make them more inviting and relevant to the modern Jew
Revise the dues structure to pro-actively take into consideration demographics, including the traditional loss of members after the last Bar/bat mitzvah. This may require a many-tiered approach to membership to grow the congregation while keeping those members who no longer feel the need to remain members since the "children have grown".
Promote the Conservative movement as a viable and intelligent alternative to reform and orthodox movements. The conservative movement must demonstrate that it provides the best Jewish education for our children that will not be living in Jewish segregated communities.
Promote the Conservative movement as family oriented where the congregation is an extended family, a "Chavura" which works together and is there to provide support and love.
BUT THEN I REMEMBERED THAT FHC SIMPLY IS NOT DOING ANY THESE THINGS.
We have not even settled out arrears with United Synagogue so we cannot (yet), use it as a resource. We have not had a membership event in years. We have not done anything pro-actively to address the need to grow the membership
It is quite easy for us to find a scapegoat for the loss of members. Heck, as Jews we are well aware of the concept of scapegoats since Jews historically have wrongfully been labeled scapegoats for many of the world’s ills. We must stop looking for a scapegoat to lay blame for the loss of members. Instead, the leaders of FHC (myself included), must admit that we have not done anything pro-actively to increase or even maintain the membership of FHC.
How can we, as leaders of FHC, sit on a large pot of money given to us by a shul that folded, kvetch about members leaving and not spend any of it on refurbishing the building and advertising FHC for its terrific Hebrew School, Egalitarian services, and the multitude of activities that we run throughout the year.
We need pro-active leadership, and we need it now.
While I am spread pretty thin right now, I make the following proposal. We should start a GrowFHC Committee which has as its reason for existence the growth of FHC.
The GrowFHC Committee will seek to advance the goals set forth in this blog. If anyone is interested in joining this committee they should contact me and we can present this proposal to the Board of Trustees of FHC. I need your help, since I simply cannot do this alone.
Let us GrowFHC for the future of Judaism in Northern Westchester. Let us stop wasting our time laying blame and use our energies to find solutions and be pro-active. Let's not be the next shul to fold!!!!!
Shalom. Jeremy
To break the Yom Kippur fast I went to my sister’s house. During the bagel course, I had a chance to speak to my brother-in-law, who happens to be a board member at a conservative shul in Harrison. We got to talking and he advised me that his shul had lost over 100 families in the last two to three years based upon internal bickering.
Since they were a congregation that was over 500 families and was now significantly less we started talking about what the Conservative movement needed to do in connection with membership.
I suggested that conservative congregations had to:
Advertise and have events that give people an opportunity to meet the Rabbi, get to know the Hebrew school, experience the religious services.
Use United Synagogue to assist in planning and devising a strategy for the retention of members and the growing of the conservative movement.
Refurbish existing conservative shuls to make them more inviting and relevant to the modern Jew
Revise the dues structure to pro-actively take into consideration demographics, including the traditional loss of members after the last Bar/bat mitzvah. This may require a many-tiered approach to membership to grow the congregation while keeping those members who no longer feel the need to remain members since the "children have grown".
Promote the Conservative movement as a viable and intelligent alternative to reform and orthodox movements. The conservative movement must demonstrate that it provides the best Jewish education for our children that will not be living in Jewish segregated communities.
Promote the Conservative movement as family oriented where the congregation is an extended family, a "Chavura" which works together and is there to provide support and love.
BUT THEN I REMEMBERED THAT FHC SIMPLY IS NOT DOING ANY THESE THINGS.
We have not even settled out arrears with United Synagogue so we cannot (yet), use it as a resource. We have not had a membership event in years. We have not done anything pro-actively to address the need to grow the membership
It is quite easy for us to find a scapegoat for the loss of members. Heck, as Jews we are well aware of the concept of scapegoats since Jews historically have wrongfully been labeled scapegoats for many of the world’s ills. We must stop looking for a scapegoat to lay blame for the loss of members. Instead, the leaders of FHC (myself included), must admit that we have not done anything pro-actively to increase or even maintain the membership of FHC.
How can we, as leaders of FHC, sit on a large pot of money given to us by a shul that folded, kvetch about members leaving and not spend any of it on refurbishing the building and advertising FHC for its terrific Hebrew School, Egalitarian services, and the multitude of activities that we run throughout the year.
We need pro-active leadership, and we need it now.
While I am spread pretty thin right now, I make the following proposal. We should start a GrowFHC Committee which has as its reason for existence the growth of FHC.
The GrowFHC Committee will seek to advance the goals set forth in this blog. If anyone is interested in joining this committee they should contact me and we can present this proposal to the Board of Trustees of FHC. I need your help, since I simply cannot do this alone.
Let us GrowFHC for the future of Judaism in Northern Westchester. Let us stop wasting our time laying blame and use our energies to find solutions and be pro-active. Let's not be the next shul to fold!!!!!
Shalom. Jeremy
Friday, October 14, 2005
An interesting story lost...
Apparently the last blog entry, an interesting story was lost in cyberspace. I will rewrite the story for all to share.
SHALOM. JEREMY
SHALOM. JEREMY
Monday, October 10, 2005
Rabbi Tzvi Marx lecture held on 10-9-05
On 10-9-05 Rabbi Marx gave an interesting lecture at FHC. Below are some pictures of the event and the guests who were in attendance.
Rabbi Tzvi Marx was a former FHC rabbi from 1970-1976.
Shalom. Jeremy
Rabbi Tzvi Marx was a former FHC rabbi from 1970-1976.
Shalom. Jeremy
Thursday, October 06, 2005
FHC Cocktail Party-Fundraiser October 22, 2005 7:30pm
THE FIRST SOCIAL EVENT OF THE SEASON!
A Cocktail Party to honor all outgoing FHC Board Members will be held on Saturday, October 22nd @ 7:30 pm at the home of Debby & Bruce Bleiweis. $20. per person includes cocktails, hors d'oevres, dessert and coffee; RSVP and/or send in check to FHC office; Any questions call Bruce 914-953-8753.
This should be a great event, a way to kick back, get acquainted with and have fun with fellow FHC members and others.
The Bleiweis family has authorized me to place their names and telephone information on this blog entry.
Shalom. Jeremy
A Cocktail Party to honor all outgoing FHC Board Members will be held on Saturday, October 22nd @ 7:30 pm at the home of Debby & Bruce Bleiweis. $20. per person includes cocktails, hors d'oevres, dessert and coffee; RSVP and/or send in check to FHC office; Any questions call Bruce 914-953-8753.
This should be a great event, a way to kick back, get acquainted with and have fun with fellow FHC members and others.
The Bleiweis family has authorized me to place their names and telephone information on this blog entry.
Shalom. Jeremy
Monday, October 03, 2005
L' Shana Tovah from the Blog
As we get ready to celebrate Rosh Hashanah, a time for reflection, introspection and thoughts for the New Year, I am personally grateful for the health and well-being of my family and the FHC family. Although we may, from time to time disagree, we more often than not agree, get along and have the best interests of the FHC Jewish family in our hearts.
I continue to talk about the FHC extended family for a reason. The FHC family works best when we have a cause, a reason to come together. I saw that recently with the compassion and love extended to my family during our son's recent health issue.
For the new year, let us think about channeling all our energies to working together as an extended (non-dysfunctional) family with the best interests of FHC and Judaism in our heart of hearts.
Shalom. Jeremy
I continue to talk about the FHC extended family for a reason. The FHC family works best when we have a cause, a reason to come together. I saw that recently with the compassion and love extended to my family during our son's recent health issue.
For the new year, let us think about channeling all our energies to working together as an extended (non-dysfunctional) family with the best interests of FHC and Judaism in our heart of hearts.
Shalom. Jeremy
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
NOAH, THE FHC EXTENDED FAMILY & PHOTOS
On behalf of the Krantz Krew I want to thank the FHC extended family that came through for us in all different ways when the "chips were down". From the donation of blood, (and many offers that were not needed), organization of plans, babysitting, food deliveries, taxi service for my other children, information networking, etc. FHC was there for us. (If ever there was a story to show what a great congregation and extended family FHC is and why people should join us, this is it.) This is what a shul should be about!
Noah's brain surgery went very well. The surgeons removed the majority of two tumors that were essentially in the middle of his brain in a region called the lateral ventricle. While there remains other tumors in Noah's brain, they are not in a precarious position and, hopefully, they will not grow to become life-threatening.
The surgery lasted approx. 6 hours and he was in the PICU for four days and was in the pediatric ward for one day.
We took turns staying with Noah on a 24/7 basis for the entire time. Noah was visited by family and friends and his spirits got much better after approx. the third day in the PICU.
Slowly, the attachments to machines, tubes and monitors were removed.
Now, Noah is on anti-seizure medications and steroids. He remains out of school and we anticipate that he can go back in another week or so.
I have included several pictures of Noah that were taken on the last day in the PICU. (I did not take any pictures prior to that because they were not that pleasant.)
The Noah smile is back .
Thank G-d and the wonderful people who prayed for his health and well-being.
Shalom. Jeremy
Noah's brain surgery went very well. The surgeons removed the majority of two tumors that were essentially in the middle of his brain in a region called the lateral ventricle. While there remains other tumors in Noah's brain, they are not in a precarious position and, hopefully, they will not grow to become life-threatening.
The surgery lasted approx. 6 hours and he was in the PICU for four days and was in the pediatric ward for one day.
We took turns staying with Noah on a 24/7 basis for the entire time. Noah was visited by family and friends and his spirits got much better after approx. the third day in the PICU.
Slowly, the attachments to machines, tubes and monitors were removed.
Now, Noah is on anti-seizure medications and steroids. He remains out of school and we anticipate that he can go back in another week or so.
I have included several pictures of Noah that were taken on the last day in the PICU. (I did not take any pictures prior to that because they were not that pleasant.)
The Noah smile is back .
Thank G-d and the wonderful people who prayed for his health and well-being.
Shalom. Jeremy
NOAH IS HOME RECOVERING NICELY
I am pleased to report that Noah is doing very nicely post-op and he came home on 9/26/05. I will, at a later posting, discuss what happened, etc. Just a quick note to provide a good progress report. Thank-you for all your prayers and thoughts and help.
Shalom. Jeremy
Shalom. Jeremy
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
NOAH'S SURGERY
Yesterday my son Noah asked me, in reference to the surgery, "Dad, am I going to die?"
After struggling with how to address that question and realizing the true torment he was having, I answered,
"G-d willing, you will be fine."
The answer I came up with, G-d willing, tells alot about what being a Jew is all about.
I will not lie to my son and tell him everything is going to be fine. I could not tell him something that I could not personally back up. I did tell him something that I believe my Jewish upbringing allows me to say. "G-d willing".
We have done our due diligence in reference to the surgeon, the hospital, the medicines, etc. I cannot go beyond what is humanly possible. I can, however, provide my feelings that faith in G-d will help Noah through this ordeal.
As the Rabbi recently stated, G-d and Torah sometimes do take a backseat to the busy lives that we lead. Yet when we are confronted with things in our lives that our beyond human comprehension, usually life and death issues, we invoke G-d's divine province. While we, as Jews try to remember G-d in everyday events with prayers and study, we especially think of the divinity when we are dwarfed by life's slings and arrows.
Tomorrow Noah ("I will be brave") is supposed to have brain surgery at NYU. We are supposed to get to the hospital by 6:30am. The surgery is supposed to last anywhere from 5 to 7 hours and he supposed to be in the NICU and thereafter in the hospital for a total of 7 days.
Hopefully Noah, as the Men's Club's honorary junior member, will be ready to join us for the next Men's club breakfast scheduled for October 16, 2005.
Shalom. Jeremy
After struggling with how to address that question and realizing the true torment he was having, I answered,
"G-d willing, you will be fine."
The answer I came up with, G-d willing, tells alot about what being a Jew is all about.
I will not lie to my son and tell him everything is going to be fine. I could not tell him something that I could not personally back up. I did tell him something that I believe my Jewish upbringing allows me to say. "G-d willing".
We have done our due diligence in reference to the surgeon, the hospital, the medicines, etc. I cannot go beyond what is humanly possible. I can, however, provide my feelings that faith in G-d will help Noah through this ordeal.
As the Rabbi recently stated, G-d and Torah sometimes do take a backseat to the busy lives that we lead. Yet when we are confronted with things in our lives that our beyond human comprehension, usually life and death issues, we invoke G-d's divine province. While we, as Jews try to remember G-d in everyday events with prayers and study, we especially think of the divinity when we are dwarfed by life's slings and arrows.
Tomorrow Noah ("I will be brave") is supposed to have brain surgery at NYU. We are supposed to get to the hospital by 6:30am. The surgery is supposed to last anywhere from 5 to 7 hours and he supposed to be in the NICU and thereafter in the hospital for a total of 7 days.
Hopefully Noah, as the Men's Club's honorary junior member, will be ready to join us for the next Men's club breakfast scheduled for October 16, 2005.
Shalom. Jeremy
Monday, September 19, 2005
"Adversity builds Character"
Adversity builds Character
If adversity builds character then that must explain why Jews are such characters. Our collective Jewish history is filled with adversity and struggle. Yet we continue on...
Recent adversity such as Hurrican Katrina, Iraq and the war on Terrorism that this country faces, we should face together as Americans. Will these events build our collective character? Only time will tell, but I am hopeful.
When do we rise above adversity? Is it when we face it head on and do everything within our powers to conquer it? Do we have the internal fortitude to accept those things that we cannot conquer and, based upon hope, faith and prayer marshal our strength and continue on?
We all experience adversity at one time or another. Whether it is through school, career/business, family, health issues, loss of a loved one; how we deal with adversity tells us alot about who we are and what we are made of. Adversity certainly does build character. I should know, because, ask my wife, I am one h-ll of a character.
Shalom. Jeremy
If adversity builds character then that must explain why Jews are such characters. Our collective Jewish history is filled with adversity and struggle. Yet we continue on...
Recent adversity such as Hurrican Katrina, Iraq and the war on Terrorism that this country faces, we should face together as Americans. Will these events build our collective character? Only time will tell, but I am hopeful.
When do we rise above adversity? Is it when we face it head on and do everything within our powers to conquer it? Do we have the internal fortitude to accept those things that we cannot conquer and, based upon hope, faith and prayer marshal our strength and continue on?
We all experience adversity at one time or another. Whether it is through school, career/business, family, health issues, loss of a loved one; how we deal with adversity tells us alot about who we are and what we are made of. Adversity certainly does build character. I should know, because, ask my wife, I am one h-ll of a character.
Shalom. Jeremy
Thursday, September 15, 2005
Saturday September 17, 2005 : Phyllis Stern and Incoming Board
Just a reminder that we should all try and attend Saturday morning services on September 17, 2005 when we honor Phyllis Stern for her devoted service to FHC and to welcome the incoming Board of Trustees.
(I mention her name specifically since it is a publicized FHC event.)
I personally want to thank Phyllis for her dedication and committment to FHC. She is a terrific role model for FHC members who want to know how they can contribute their time and energy to FHC. Now, if we could just figure out a way to clone her...
As an aside, I heard that this Oneg after services should be quite nice.
Shalom. Jeremy
(I mention her name specifically since it is a publicized FHC event.)
I personally want to thank Phyllis for her dedication and committment to FHC. She is a terrific role model for FHC members who want to know how they can contribute their time and energy to FHC. Now, if we could just figure out a way to clone her...
As an aside, I heard that this Oneg after services should be quite nice.
Shalom. Jeremy
Monday, September 12, 2005
First, second and Third....
First: Welcome back and welcome first-timers to Hebrew school. Study hard and enjoy the FHC learning experience.
Second: We had a successful Men's club meeting on Sunday morning and for the next scheduled meeting, October 16, 2005, one of our member-chefs is going to cook a different breakfast for the meeting. I look forward to his creativity and also we would like to have even more members come. So, save the date: October 16, 2005 at FHC for the breakfast meeting.
Last, but not least, I welcome four new individuals who requested that they be added to the blog list. I hope you enjoy what you see. Let me also suggest that you peruse the archive for articles and pictures. The archive is a nice way to look at the things that have gone on in the past SIX MONTHS on the blog.
Shalom. Jeremy
Second: We had a successful Men's club meeting on Sunday morning and for the next scheduled meeting, October 16, 2005, one of our member-chefs is going to cook a different breakfast for the meeting. I look forward to his creativity and also we would like to have even more members come. So, save the date: October 16, 2005 at FHC for the breakfast meeting.
Last, but not least, I welcome four new individuals who requested that they be added to the blog list. I hope you enjoy what you see. Let me also suggest that you peruse the archive for articles and pictures. The archive is a nice way to look at the things that have gone on in the past SIX MONTHS on the blog.
Shalom. Jeremy
Thursday, September 08, 2005
Men's Club September 11, 2005 breakfast and certain other functions (Schedule)
"Food, glorious food..."
On September 11, 2005, instead of dropping off the kids for Hebrew School and leaving, or even having breakfast at home, come join the Men's club at FHC as it will kick off the 2005-2006 year with its first breakfast meeting.
Stop in for a terrific breakfast and get involved. And if you don't want to get involved, you can at least come, talk, pick up a fork and eat!
Personally, I would love to see some new faces at this meeting.
Below is the schedule of Men's club and certain other functions. Please note the dates and join us.
Men’s Club Meetings / Other Functions 5766 (2005 – 2006)
Sunday, September 11, 2005
Breakfast Meeting
Sunday, October 16, 2005
Breakfast Meeting
Sunday, November 20, 2005
Breakfast Meeting – Activities with Kids
Sunday, December 4, 2005
Joint Breakfast Meeting with Sisterhood
Sunday, January 8, 2006
Breakfast Meeting
Save the date!!!!!!!!
(Sunday, February 5, 2006
Super Bowl Party)
Sunday, February 12, 2006
Breakfast Meeting -- Downtown
Sunday, March 12, 2006
Purim Carnival
Saturday, March 18, 2006
Men’s Club Shabbat
Sunday, March 26, 2006
Blood Drive -- Parents Day
Sunday, April 23, 2006
Joint Breakfast Meeting with Sisterhood
Sunday, June 4, 2006
BBQ Day - Last School Day
On September 11, 2005, instead of dropping off the kids for Hebrew School and leaving, or even having breakfast at home, come join the Men's club at FHC as it will kick off the 2005-2006 year with its first breakfast meeting.
Stop in for a terrific breakfast and get involved. And if you don't want to get involved, you can at least come, talk, pick up a fork and eat!
Personally, I would love to see some new faces at this meeting.
Below is the schedule of Men's club and certain other functions. Please note the dates and join us.
Men’s Club Meetings / Other Functions 5766 (2005 – 2006)
Sunday, September 11, 2005
Breakfast Meeting
Sunday, October 16, 2005
Breakfast Meeting
Sunday, November 20, 2005
Breakfast Meeting – Activities with Kids
Sunday, December 4, 2005
Joint Breakfast Meeting with Sisterhood
Sunday, January 8, 2006
Breakfast Meeting
Save the date!!!!!!!!
(Sunday, February 5, 2006
Super Bowl Party)
Sunday, February 12, 2006
Breakfast Meeting -- Downtown
Sunday, March 12, 2006
Purim Carnival
Saturday, March 18, 2006
Men’s Club Shabbat
Sunday, March 26, 2006
Blood Drive -- Parents Day
Sunday, April 23, 2006
Joint Breakfast Meeting with Sisterhood
Sunday, June 4, 2006
BBQ Day - Last School Day
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
The compassion of FHC members
My mother (rest in peace) used to say, "When the chips are down, you will find out who your true friends are." Well, the FHC family truly is a fine group of friends. Unbeknownst to me, my wife made a request (via FHC e-mail) for a unit of blood for Noah to be donated for his 9/21/05 surgery. (I am giving a unit on 9/14/05 and Robin cannot donate). Literally, within an hour we had a FHC member offer to donate and shortly thereafter several more offered. To the FHC member who is going to donate (I do not disclose names here), thank-you from the bottom of my heart. You are truly doing a mitzvah of the highest order.
To those who offered and are not doing it, thank-you for your compassion and willingness to come to our aid "when the chips are down".
And to those who have expressed their hopes for a speedy recovery, etc. thank-you. Certainly, it is my hope that the more people praying for Noah, the better he will be.
As I have been writing about for some time on this blog, I truly consider FHC to be an extended family of truly wonderful people. We should take pride in the fact that FHC is not just bricks and mortar, but truly the blood of its members, the sweat of those who contribute their time and energy and yes, the tears of the families who suffer loss and/or medical issues.
As a final personal note, I will try and get back to FHC issues as best as I can. Obviously, our personal issues concerning Noah/surgery/etc have become part of this blog. But since I consider FHC to be part of our extended family, I am writing about FHC and its absolutely terrific people.
Shalom. Jeremy
To those who offered and are not doing it, thank-you for your compassion and willingness to come to our aid "when the chips are down".
And to those who have expressed their hopes for a speedy recovery, etc. thank-you. Certainly, it is my hope that the more people praying for Noah, the better he will be.
As I have been writing about for some time on this blog, I truly consider FHC to be an extended family of truly wonderful people. We should take pride in the fact that FHC is not just bricks and mortar, but truly the blood of its members, the sweat of those who contribute their time and energy and yes, the tears of the families who suffer loss and/or medical issues.
As a final personal note, I will try and get back to FHC issues as best as I can. Obviously, our personal issues concerning Noah/surgery/etc have become part of this blog. But since I consider FHC to be part of our extended family, I am writing about FHC and its absolutely terrific people.
Shalom. Jeremy
Friday, September 02, 2005
Status Report re: personal note (Noah)
In August, we were advised that our son required brain surgery. As such, I took a period of time away from this blog to think about this and collect my thoughts and feelings. This blog was "Shalom for a while"....To our extended FHC family I want to thank those who expressed their wishes and prayers for Noah. We truly appreciate it.
The current status is that the surgery is to take place on September 21, 2005 at NYU. He has several tumors in the brain, but the one that is causing the most trouble is approx 2 centimeters in diameter and is pressing on the lateral ventricle. He is in no pain and as of now is asymptomatic.
I will not go into the details other than to say that we have experienced our own tsunami of events since the decision was made for Noah to have brain surgery.
I am very proud of Noah who has been a trooper throughout, going to various doctors and listening to the Neurosurgeon describe the operation. It is heartwrenching to hear your child ask "Dad, is he going to put my head back together?" It is even more rattling not to be a firm "pillar of strength" even though it is needed now more than ever.
Since I do not have the skills of a surgeon, all we can do is utilize the power of faith and know that whatever happens, it is in G-d's hands.
Shalom. Jeremy
Monday, August 22, 2005
On a very personal note...
To FHC members and friends:
I have tried to limit blog entries to FHC and Jewish related material. However, since I am only human, I wanted to share with my FHC extended family the recent medical condition of my son Noah (see, a Jewish reference).
We were recently advised by Noah's Neurologist and Neurosurgeon that he will require brain surgery to G-d willing, remove tumor(s)? pressing on his third ventricle and possibly elsewhere. We are not fully aware, or my wife is not telling me, all the unpleasant details, but he is expected to have the surgery very soon. Today, Noah is seeing an eye doctor to get a baseline for his sight, pre-surgery; tomorrow we are seeing the Neurosurgeon.
For this reason, I will be taking a short hiatus (some of you may actually be happy) from blogging. I will not however, nor will our family be "avoiding" or "quitting" anything. We consider FHC to be part of our family and we are not quitters.
So, instead of submitting a resignation letter for some reason (I heard of one recently that sounded petty), or even taking a leave of absence, we herein submit a re-dedication letter to FHC to continue and to reaffirm our committment to Judaism and to FHC.
Shalom for a while...
Jeremy
I have tried to limit blog entries to FHC and Jewish related material. However, since I am only human, I wanted to share with my FHC extended family the recent medical condition of my son Noah (see, a Jewish reference).
We were recently advised by Noah's Neurologist and Neurosurgeon that he will require brain surgery to G-d willing, remove tumor(s)? pressing on his third ventricle and possibly elsewhere. We are not fully aware, or my wife is not telling me, all the unpleasant details, but he is expected to have the surgery very soon. Today, Noah is seeing an eye doctor to get a baseline for his sight, pre-surgery; tomorrow we are seeing the Neurosurgeon.
For this reason, I will be taking a short hiatus (some of you may actually be happy) from blogging. I will not however, nor will our family be "avoiding" or "quitting" anything. We consider FHC to be part of our family and we are not quitters.
So, instead of submitting a resignation letter for some reason (I heard of one recently that sounded petty), or even taking a leave of absence, we herein submit a re-dedication letter to FHC to continue and to reaffirm our committment to Judaism and to FHC.
Shalom for a while...
Jeremy
Thursday, August 18, 2005
FIRST HEBREW CONGREGATION OF NORTHERN WESTCHESTER???
Sometimes, a name change can make a new impression. Sometimes a new facade can (excuse the pun), "re-jewvenate". Remember Datsun became Nissan. Esso became Exxon. Peekskill Hospital became Hudson Valley Hospital Center.
The signage is stale. The name is dated. Without losing our link to the historic past, we can re-name our congregation with new signage and, hopefully a new logo. The new name can be part of a renovation project and re-dedication of the building in 2007.
There is no logical reason we must keep the name Peekskill as part of out title. In fact, the majority of our congregants do not reside in Peekskill. The concept of Northern Westchester is that the name should represent our demographics and the geography of the congregants, be more inclusive and not just where the building happens to be situated.
Shalom. Jeremy
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
Rabbi Radler remembered, with photo
Rabbi Radler (third from the right)
Earlier this year I tried, but was unsuccessful, in providing copies of photos of the late Rabbi Radler. However, I am able to provide this photo of Rabbi Radler in a 2004 parade. This photo is from his Hillcrest congregation.
Again, this blogger tries to fulfill what it promises. You will also note that I am now able to integrate pictures with text, another innovation I have learned.
Shalom. Jeremy
Earlier this year I tried, but was unsuccessful, in providing copies of photos of the late Rabbi Radler. However, I am able to provide this photo of Rabbi Radler in a 2004 parade. This photo is from his Hillcrest congregation. Again, this blogger tries to fulfill what it promises. You will also note that I am now able to integrate pictures with text, another innovation I have learned.
Shalom. Jeremy
Tuesday, August 16, 2005
Hyperlink to First Hebrew Congregation Website
I AM PLEASED TO PROVIDE ALL READERS OF THIS BLOG WITH A HYPERLINK TO THE FIRST HEBREW WEBSITE.
HERE IT IS.
http://firsthebrew.org
HERE IT IS.
http://firsthebrew.org
Monday, August 15, 2005
A visit to a neighbor-shul...
This past weekend, my wife and I had the opportunity to visit, for the first time inside, an old shul off of Lake Peekskill in Putnam Valley. We were attending a free movie showing of Devil's Arithmetic. It was a fine movie and even though the lights went out during the movie due to the thunderstorm, the presentation was very nice and we also visited with several FHC members who were there to attend the movie.
Afterward, a friend of mine, who was running the movie, gave me a brief tour of the building and I was most saddened to see a repeatedly flooded basement which used to be their library and class-room(s). The entire back half of the basement of the building was unusable due to water on the floor. What was even more disheartening was the mildew and odor that permeated not only the basement but also other parts of the building. Most likely the shul also had mold since my friend advised that the rain infiltration occurred during regular heavy rains.
Nevertheless, there seemed to be a wonderful sense (possibly illogical) of optimism amongst the people who were there. This was their shul and they were having programs and planning events and conducting the business of a shul. The physical plant was clearly a problem, but, it did not discourage the congregants/visitors who were attending the movie.
FHC, on the other hand has a predominantly dry (with some exceptions that should be fixed), building and the physical plant, and while in need of updating and improvements, is a place where we engage in a longstanding act of Judaism... kvetching. (I know that members of the shul we visited must kvetch as well.)
But, I believe that kvetching and pessimism is a self-fufilling activity. If you see the glass half empty, you will be thirsty. Instead if you see the glass has water in it, maybe you will quench your thirst long enough to find a way to get more water, to make the glass full.
I believe FHC has a glass that has water in it. Once and for all I ask the leaders and the membership to think optimistically and take stock of the absolutely wonderful things we have in our glass. Everything from no debt, two shuls and a home, rental income from the Chase bank property (which is also owned by FHC), the cemetary, substantial monetary investments, our dedicated Rabbi and staff of FHC including the office, the principal and the teaching staff.
I believe that we must have a sense of vision and a sense of foward thinking. If we only see the glass as half empty, then we will never be able to envision the glass full. That goes for membership, building improvements, programming, fundraising and the like.
If our membership is going down, let us advertise and publicize.
If the building has deficiencies, let us fix them, and not just talk about them.
If our programming is lacking, let us improve it and get more people involved with what we plan to do.
We have the assets right here and now to make FHC a place where Jews (not just conservative and orthodox raised families) will want to raise their children and come to pray.
We need leadership and a membership with Forward positive thinking. Leave your half empty glass somewhere else.
Shalom. Jeremy
Afterward, a friend of mine, who was running the movie, gave me a brief tour of the building and I was most saddened to see a repeatedly flooded basement which used to be their library and class-room(s). The entire back half of the basement of the building was unusable due to water on the floor. What was even more disheartening was the mildew and odor that permeated not only the basement but also other parts of the building. Most likely the shul also had mold since my friend advised that the rain infiltration occurred during regular heavy rains.
Nevertheless, there seemed to be a wonderful sense (possibly illogical) of optimism amongst the people who were there. This was their shul and they were having programs and planning events and conducting the business of a shul. The physical plant was clearly a problem, but, it did not discourage the congregants/visitors who were attending the movie.
FHC, on the other hand has a predominantly dry (with some exceptions that should be fixed), building and the physical plant, and while in need of updating and improvements, is a place where we engage in a longstanding act of Judaism... kvetching. (I know that members of the shul we visited must kvetch as well.)
But, I believe that kvetching and pessimism is a self-fufilling activity. If you see the glass half empty, you will be thirsty. Instead if you see the glass has water in it, maybe you will quench your thirst long enough to find a way to get more water, to make the glass full.
I believe FHC has a glass that has water in it. Once and for all I ask the leaders and the membership to think optimistically and take stock of the absolutely wonderful things we have in our glass. Everything from no debt, two shuls and a home, rental income from the Chase bank property (which is also owned by FHC), the cemetary, substantial monetary investments, our dedicated Rabbi and staff of FHC including the office, the principal and the teaching staff.
I believe that we must have a sense of vision and a sense of foward thinking. If we only see the glass as half empty, then we will never be able to envision the glass full. That goes for membership, building improvements, programming, fundraising and the like.
If our membership is going down, let us advertise and publicize.
If the building has deficiencies, let us fix them, and not just talk about them.
If our programming is lacking, let us improve it and get more people involved with what we plan to do.
We have the assets right here and now to make FHC a place where Jews (not just conservative and orthodox raised families) will want to raise their children and come to pray.
We need leadership and a membership with Forward positive thinking. Leave your half empty glass somewhere else.
Shalom. Jeremy
Friday, August 12, 2005
August 21, 2005: Movie night postponed: date to be posted TWO OTHER GREAT JEWISH RELATED EVENTS THAT DAY
At the request/suggestion of our terrific Audio-visual expert, who has set up and shown the last four movies of the FHC summer movie series, the last movie of the series, Brighton Beach Memoirs scheduled for August 21, 2005 will not be shown that night and will be postponed to a date to be announced.
Our audio-visual expert has advised that there are two great events on August 21, 2005 that we should try and attend.
Jewish heritage day at Shea Stadium,
sponsored by the Hudson Valley Regional Men's Club.
Yiddish festival at Kensico Dam, which we believe is co-sponsored by FHC
As such, enjoy a great day of events and the 8-21-05 movie at FHC will be shown on another day.
Thank-you and Shalom. Jeremy
Our audio-visual expert has advised that there are two great events on August 21, 2005 that we should try and attend.
Jewish heritage day at Shea Stadium,
sponsored by the Hudson Valley Regional Men's Club.
Yiddish festival at Kensico Dam, which we believe is co-sponsored by FHC
As such, enjoy a great day of events and the 8-21-05 movie at FHC will be shown on another day.
Thank-you and Shalom. Jeremy
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Our House (of Worship), is a very fine House (of Worship), but...
CSNY said... "Our house, is a very very fine house...." (My wife will be thrilled I am quoting her favorite group.)
FHC (uptown), is a fine house of worship. It has served us well for close to fifty years. And hopefully, in the near future, we will spend some money to upgrade both the interior and the exterior of "our house". In the meantime, however, some small things should be done to keep the exterior of "our house" looking neat and tidy.
Below are some pictures of the exterior of FHC taken on 8-10-05. I do not believe that any of my suggestions will break the bank. They should be done now, prior to the high holidays to spruce up "our house". Although I am not a skilled laborer, I am willing to help a skilled laborer. I also believe we can easily obtain skilled and unskilled laborers quickly to address these issues.
Shalom. Jeremy
FHC (uptown), is a fine house of worship. It has served us well for close to fifty years. And hopefully, in the near future, we will spend some money to upgrade both the interior and the exterior of "our house". In the meantime, however, some small things should be done to keep the exterior of "our house" looking neat and tidy.
Below are some pictures of the exterior of FHC taken on 8-10-05. I do not believe that any of my suggestions will break the bank. They should be done now, prior to the high holidays to spruce up "our house". Although I am not a skilled laborer, I am willing to help a skilled laborer. I also believe we can easily obtain skilled and unskilled laborers quickly to address these issues.
Shalom. Jeremy
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
Where do Conservative Jews stand on political issues?
Recently, some Christian sects have decided to become actively political. The Christian Fundamentalists has advanced political agendas, candidates, Supreme Court and other Court appointees. Other Christian sects, on the other end of the spectrum, so to speak, are now proposing a boycott of certain Israeli industries to place pressure on Israel in connection with the Palestinian issue.
While the Constitution suggests that our form of government should advance the separation of Church and State, (Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof), there is nothing that I am aware of, with the possible exception of certain tax exempt status laws, which prohibit a religion from espousing a political agenda.
Now, to get two Jews, let alone the Conservative movement to agree on a political agenda is difficult. But, I suggest that it is not impossible to find common ground on certain issues.
Conservative Judaism should, in my opinion:
Be supportive of policies and candidates that support the security and independence of Israel and a unified Jerusalem under Israeli rule.
Foster the marriage of a man and a woman and the retention of Jewish couples in the Conservative movement.
Make it easier and more affordable for Jewish families to join Conservative congregations and, coupled with that, if the parents so desire, have multiple children.
Take a firm position opposing Anti-Semitism throughout the world and if necessary the use of political force such as boycott and/or support of sanctions against such country until it affirmatively fights Anti-Semitism.
Take the position that it can grow the Conservative movement by seeking non-Conservative Jews and non-Jews to join the Conservative Jewish movement and embracing such individuals. No sect of Judaism, to my knowledge has focused on this issue and it would be a tremendous opportunity for the movement.
Food for thought.
Shalom. Jeremy
While the Constitution suggests that our form of government should advance the separation of Church and State, (Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof), there is nothing that I am aware of, with the possible exception of certain tax exempt status laws, which prohibit a religion from espousing a political agenda.
Now, to get two Jews, let alone the Conservative movement to agree on a political agenda is difficult. But, I suggest that it is not impossible to find common ground on certain issues.
Conservative Judaism should, in my opinion:
Be supportive of policies and candidates that support the security and independence of Israel and a unified Jerusalem under Israeli rule.
Foster the marriage of a man and a woman and the retention of Jewish couples in the Conservative movement.
Make it easier and more affordable for Jewish families to join Conservative congregations and, coupled with that, if the parents so desire, have multiple children.
Take a firm position opposing Anti-Semitism throughout the world and if necessary the use of political force such as boycott and/or support of sanctions against such country until it affirmatively fights Anti-Semitism.
Take the position that it can grow the Conservative movement by seeking non-Conservative Jews and non-Jews to join the Conservative Jewish movement and embracing such individuals. No sect of Judaism, to my knowledge has focused on this issue and it would be a tremendous opportunity for the movement.
Food for thought.
Shalom. Jeremy
Wednesday, August 03, 2005
Bat Mitzvah Planning 101
We are now in the throes of the preparation of our second daughter's Bat Mitzvah. Where is the joy?
I wish that we could turn back the clock to a simpler time when Bar and Bat Mitzvahs were truly a religious rite of passage as opposed to a big celebration. I realize that, like Chanukah and other major religious holidays, the event has taken on a truly commercial value to our economy.
Caterers, musicians, DJ's, invitations, video, photographers, centerpieces, and on and on it goes. A good Bat Mitzvah is good for the GNP. But is it good for the soul? (Does this sound like Linus from a "Charlie Brown Christmas"?)
Did we somehow lose the meaning of the Bat Mitzvah when we felt it necessary to place a party after the religious service. Would not a simple Oneg Shabbat be a sufficient celebration?
We have been invited to Bat Mitzvahs where the family dog received an honor at a candle-lighting ceremony. We have seen the ice sculptures with Vodka flowing down as if it were a mountain river. We have seen the large bands and the numerous dancers employed solely to get the party "rocking". Maybe we should have "paid" guests who will guarantee a good time to the "volunteer" guests. My wife and I describe these events as similar to a bad James Bond movie where the host/hostess simply do not know when to stop the special effects.
I know that the host/hostess want a)everyone to have a great time, and b) the event to be favorably compared with other Bar/Bat mitzvahs attended. But does one need to have crab-races during the cocktail party to have a great time? Does one have to have huge styrofoam "artwork" as centerpieces that will be thrown out shortly thereafter? Does one have to have more food, better food, more drinks, more dancers, more lights, louder DJ's than the prior Bar/Bat Mitzvah attended to make the event a success?
I even know of a person who mortgaged his home in order to make the celebration huge.
Our approach, in light of the desires of the parties involved, is to try and find a happy medium where the celebration is not over the top and where the guests can have a great time. Even though one young lady would love for me to take out a home equity loan to satisfy all her dreams, "that will not be happening".
And the planning continues.....
I wish that we could turn back the clock to a simpler time when Bar and Bat Mitzvahs were truly a religious rite of passage as opposed to a big celebration. I realize that, like Chanukah and other major religious holidays, the event has taken on a truly commercial value to our economy.
Caterers, musicians, DJ's, invitations, video, photographers, centerpieces, and on and on it goes. A good Bat Mitzvah is good for the GNP. But is it good for the soul? (Does this sound like Linus from a "Charlie Brown Christmas"?)
Did we somehow lose the meaning of the Bat Mitzvah when we felt it necessary to place a party after the religious service. Would not a simple Oneg Shabbat be a sufficient celebration?
We have been invited to Bat Mitzvahs where the family dog received an honor at a candle-lighting ceremony. We have seen the ice sculptures with Vodka flowing down as if it were a mountain river. We have seen the large bands and the numerous dancers employed solely to get the party "rocking". Maybe we should have "paid" guests who will guarantee a good time to the "volunteer" guests. My wife and I describe these events as similar to a bad James Bond movie where the host/hostess simply do not know when to stop the special effects.
I know that the host/hostess want a)everyone to have a great time, and b) the event to be favorably compared with other Bar/Bat mitzvahs attended. But does one need to have crab-races during the cocktail party to have a great time? Does one have to have huge styrofoam "artwork" as centerpieces that will be thrown out shortly thereafter? Does one have to have more food, better food, more drinks, more dancers, more lights, louder DJ's than the prior Bar/Bat Mitzvah attended to make the event a success?
I even know of a person who mortgaged his home in order to make the celebration huge.
Our approach, in light of the desires of the parties involved, is to try and find a happy medium where the celebration is not over the top and where the guests can have a great time. Even though one young lady would love for me to take out a home equity loan to satisfy all her dreams, "that will not be happening".
And the planning continues.....
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
MOVIE "EXODUS" FREE AT FHC, AUGUST 7, 2005- 8PM
EXODUS
starring PAUL NEWMAN, SAL MINEO, PETER LAWFORD, EVA MARIE SAINT LEE J. COBB AND MANY MORE. Free showing at FHC on August 7, 2005 at 8pm. "Based on Leon Uris' sweeping novel, EXODUS is the epic saga of the founding of Israel in the days following World War II. Paul Newman stars as an Israeli resistance fighter, a member of the Hagannah, involved in the effort to bring a group of 600 European Jews from British-blockaded Cyprus into newly-partitioned Palestine, right before the United Nations is to vote on making it a Jewish homeland.
Color by Technicolor; shot in 70mm, Super-Panavision, on location in Israel.Approximate budget $3.5 to 4 million.One of the first films to break the blacklist, by using Hollywood 10 writer Dalton Trumbo to write the screenplay. Trumbo also wrote the screenplay for "Spartacus," directed by Stanley Kubrick, the same year. Director/producer Otto Preminger and actor/producer Kirk Douglas were responsible for helping Hollywood break the infamous communist blacklist of the 1940s and 1950s".
Color by Technicolor; shot in 70mm, Super-Panavision, on location in Israel.Approximate budget $3.5 to 4 million.One of the first films to break the blacklist, by using Hollywood 10 writer Dalton Trumbo to write the screenplay. Trumbo also wrote the screenplay for "Spartacus," directed by Stanley Kubrick, the same year. Director/producer Otto Preminger and actor/producer Kirk Douglas were responsible for helping Hollywood break the infamous communist blacklist of the 1940s and 1950s".
Monday, July 25, 2005
Reprinted from FHC e-mail to congregants (except time corrected to 8pm)
"We are saddened to inform you of the death of Benjamin Hersch z"l, of blessed memory. The funeral is scheduled for Monday July 25th at 11AM at First Hebrew Congregation.Shiva will be observed Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday at 2054 East Main Street, Cortlandt Manor. Shiva Minyans will be held at 8pm on all three nights.We extend our deepest condolences to the entire Hersch family with the traditional words: "Hamakom Ienahem, May God comfort the mourners among all the mourners for Zion and Jerusalem."
Also, it is requested that you park at the shopping center next door rather than at the house."
Also, it is requested that you park at the shopping center next door rather than at the house."
Ben Hersh remembered: Reprinted from the North County News Archives
Over the weekend, we lost Ben Hersh, a true cornerstone of our congregation.
In his Honor, this blogger located and has reprinted the article written about Ben Hersh's 90th birthday, exactly as it was written in the North County News.
To the family and friend of Ben Hersh, I express my condolences.
"Peekskill attorney Ben Hersh celebrates milestone
Governor George Pataki was on hand for the festivities and took time to pose with members of the Hersh family.
by Lisa Trapasso A 90th birthday celebration was held Sunday in honor of Benjamin B. Hersh, a well-respected attorney and “pillar of the community” in Peekskill. Family members, friends and political dignitaries, including Governor George Pataki, attended the service and breakfast held at the First Hebrew Congregation’s downtown synagogue on Main Street in Peekskill.Synagogue board members Jeff and David Feldman organized the event. Jeff Feldman described Hersh as being “like family.” During the service, Westchester County Legislator George Oros (R/Cortlandt) read a proclamation declaring December 21 Benjamin B. Hersh Day in Westchester County. Oros praised Hersh for his many achievements and generosity. “He is the secret to what long life is,” Oros said. “Instead of taking something out of life, he is looking to give.” Hersh was born December 17, 1913 in Brooklyn and later moved to Peekskill with his parents and siblings. At the age of 11, he began attending Hebrew school at the Main Street synagogue and celebrated his Bar Mitzvah there two years later. Hersh attended Peekskill public schools and graduated from Peekskill High School. He then attended New York University, where he received his law degree. He was admitted to the New York State Bar in 1939. He began his law career during the Depression at Peekskill’s leading law firm, Pines and Sterling. After his second year with the firm, he was advised his salary would be reduced from $10 a week to $5, his starting salary. He then opened his own office at 1010 Park Street in Peekskill, where he practiced for many years.In 1970, he purchased the old County Trust Bank building located at 2 South Division Street, where he still maintains his practice today with his son, Robert. “I go to the office every morning,” he said. Over the years, Hersh retained his membership and activities with the First Hebrew Congregation and it became apparent a larger facility would be needed to accommodate the growing Jewish population in the area. He was instrumental in acquiring the property on East Main Street that would eventually become the site of the congregation’s uptown synagogue center. He became the chairman of the building committee and raised funds to make the new synagogue a reality 45 years ago. “He foresaw the future of having a synagogue on East Main Street,” said Anita Hersh, his wife of 57 years. Hersh eventually served three terms as president of the First Hebrew Congregation.He has had a successful legal career and has served the community in various capacities. He was counsel to the Peekskill Hospital, now known as Hudson Valley Hospital Center, and the Lake Mohegan Fire District. He was elected to the board of directors of the Westchester County National Bank and was a trustee of the Security Title Company, a real estate title insurance company in White Plains. He was also a director of the YWCA as well as a board member of the Caring for the Homeless of Peekskill for many years. He was a public prosecutor for the city of Peekskill during the 1960s and 1970s and became a closing attorney for the Chase Manhattan Bank of Northern Westchester in 1966. Described as a “lawyer’s lawyer” and “one of the finest trial attorneys in the county of Westchester,” Hersh also engaged in a substantial amount of pro bono work for those unable to afford legal services. Pataki lauded Hersh as a “great, great man” and “great family friend.” “We’re proud that our family has been so close to Ben and all the Hershes for so many years,” he said. Hersh gave Pataki his first law job clerking in his office while he attended Columbia Law School. Hersh had represented Pataki’s father and grandfather. The governor’s mother, Margaret “Peggy” Pataki, also attended Sunday’s celebration. Practicing law is a tradition in the Hersh family. Hersh’s brothers, Frederick and Jerome, also became lawyers. His two sons, Philip and Robert, followed, as did three nephews, Eric, Scot and John. All practice in separate offices along Park Street in Peekskill. Philip Hersh described his father as a “monument in the city of Peekskill” who “was able to touch the lives of many people in our community. “The outpouring of support is just a small tribute to my dad’s many accomplishments. There’s no doubt that he’s touched the lives of everybody in this room,” he said. Anita Hersh summed up the family’s feelings on her husband’s special day.“Today was a beautiful tribute to Benjamin,” she said. "
In his Honor, this blogger located and has reprinted the article written about Ben Hersh's 90th birthday, exactly as it was written in the North County News.
To the family and friend of Ben Hersh, I express my condolences.
"Peekskill attorney Ben Hersh celebrates milestone
Governor George Pataki was on hand for the festivities and took time to pose with members of the Hersh family.
by Lisa Trapasso A 90th birthday celebration was held Sunday in honor of Benjamin B. Hersh, a well-respected attorney and “pillar of the community” in Peekskill. Family members, friends and political dignitaries, including Governor George Pataki, attended the service and breakfast held at the First Hebrew Congregation’s downtown synagogue on Main Street in Peekskill.Synagogue board members Jeff and David Feldman organized the event. Jeff Feldman described Hersh as being “like family.” During the service, Westchester County Legislator George Oros (R/Cortlandt) read a proclamation declaring December 21 Benjamin B. Hersh Day in Westchester County. Oros praised Hersh for his many achievements and generosity. “He is the secret to what long life is,” Oros said. “Instead of taking something out of life, he is looking to give.” Hersh was born December 17, 1913 in Brooklyn and later moved to Peekskill with his parents and siblings. At the age of 11, he began attending Hebrew school at the Main Street synagogue and celebrated his Bar Mitzvah there two years later. Hersh attended Peekskill public schools and graduated from Peekskill High School. He then attended New York University, where he received his law degree. He was admitted to the New York State Bar in 1939. He began his law career during the Depression at Peekskill’s leading law firm, Pines and Sterling. After his second year with the firm, he was advised his salary would be reduced from $10 a week to $5, his starting salary. He then opened his own office at 1010 Park Street in Peekskill, where he practiced for many years.In 1970, he purchased the old County Trust Bank building located at 2 South Division Street, where he still maintains his practice today with his son, Robert. “I go to the office every morning,” he said. Over the years, Hersh retained his membership and activities with the First Hebrew Congregation and it became apparent a larger facility would be needed to accommodate the growing Jewish population in the area. He was instrumental in acquiring the property on East Main Street that would eventually become the site of the congregation’s uptown synagogue center. He became the chairman of the building committee and raised funds to make the new synagogue a reality 45 years ago. “He foresaw the future of having a synagogue on East Main Street,” said Anita Hersh, his wife of 57 years. Hersh eventually served three terms as president of the First Hebrew Congregation.He has had a successful legal career and has served the community in various capacities. He was counsel to the Peekskill Hospital, now known as Hudson Valley Hospital Center, and the Lake Mohegan Fire District. He was elected to the board of directors of the Westchester County National Bank and was a trustee of the Security Title Company, a real estate title insurance company in White Plains. He was also a director of the YWCA as well as a board member of the Caring for the Homeless of Peekskill for many years. He was a public prosecutor for the city of Peekskill during the 1960s and 1970s and became a closing attorney for the Chase Manhattan Bank of Northern Westchester in 1966. Described as a “lawyer’s lawyer” and “one of the finest trial attorneys in the county of Westchester,” Hersh also engaged in a substantial amount of pro bono work for those unable to afford legal services. Pataki lauded Hersh as a “great, great man” and “great family friend.” “We’re proud that our family has been so close to Ben and all the Hershes for so many years,” he said. Hersh gave Pataki his first law job clerking in his office while he attended Columbia Law School. Hersh had represented Pataki’s father and grandfather. The governor’s mother, Margaret “Peggy” Pataki, also attended Sunday’s celebration. Practicing law is a tradition in the Hersh family. Hersh’s brothers, Frederick and Jerome, also became lawyers. His two sons, Philip and Robert, followed, as did three nephews, Eric, Scot and John. All practice in separate offices along Park Street in Peekskill. Philip Hersh described his father as a “monument in the city of Peekskill” who “was able to touch the lives of many people in our community. “The outpouring of support is just a small tribute to my dad’s many accomplishments. There’s no doubt that he’s touched the lives of everybody in this room,” he said. Anita Hersh summed up the family’s feelings on her husband’s special day.“Today was a beautiful tribute to Benjamin,” she said. "
Friday, July 22, 2005
Wednesday, July 20, 2005
Fiddler on the Roof: Free Movie showing on 7-24-05 8pm at FHC
The third movie in the FHC summer movie series is Fiddler on the Roof.
If you went with us to the broadway show with Harvey Fierstein, you may want to watch the movie to compare and contrast performances.
Fiddler is a joyous family movie (no deaths or sex scenes). It addresses relevant issues such as intermarriage, social classes and or course anti-semitism.
Shalom Jeremy
If you went with us to the broadway show with Harvey Fierstein, you may want to watch the movie to compare and contrast performances.
Fiddler is a joyous family movie (no deaths or sex scenes). It addresses relevant issues such as intermarriage, social classes and or course anti-semitism.
Shalom Jeremy
Monday, July 18, 2005
Recruitment to Grow the Faith
Pros·e·ly·tize Pronunciation: 'prä-s(&-)l&-"tIzFunction: verbInflected Form(s): -tized; -tiz·ingintransitive senses1 : to induce someone to convert to one's faith 2 : to recruit someone to join one's party, institution, or causetransitive senses : to recruit or convert especially to a new faith, institution, or cause- pros·e·ly·ti·za·tion /"prä-s(&-)l&-t&-'zA-sh&n, "prä-s&-"lI-t&-/ noun- pros·e·ly·tiz·er /'prä-s(&-)l&-"tI-z&r/ noun
In today's New York Times there is an article about a non-sectarian evangelical church that recently purchased an arena in Texas that holds thirty thousand congregants. Wow! And the article went further to state that they anticipate that their membership will exceed 100,000. They also broadcast their services to an average audience of over 2.8 million people.
Does Judaism, or should I say, is there a Jewish leader who could command such a following of new members to the faith? Is there someone or something that can be done to convert Judaism from a religion that is limited, because of low birth rates, intermarriage, death, etc. from growing from the extremely low world estimates of 13-16 million? I believe we must convert Judaism from being a surviving religion to a growing religion.
I continue to wonder why Judaism has failed and/or refused to convert itself from a religion that always looks inward and fails and/or refuses to look outward to the non-jew to grow the faith.
Being part of the "covenant" should not mean that you must be born of Jewish parent(s). Being part of the covenant should mean that based upon a belief and/or acceptance in the tenets of the Judaism you seek to live and worship as a Jew.
I wonder if the continued perception of the Jewish people as the persecuted could be flipped on its head to make being Jewish a badge of honor and pride that humankind has seen and done heinous things and from such atrocities the flower of the Jewish people continues to bloom.
Where do these thoughts lead? I believe that Judaism has simply failed to attach any importance to conversion of the non-jew to grow the religion. I believe that there has to be a reexamination of this issue and that Judaism should devote financial resources and person-power to advance this idea. And the conservative movement, with its problems concerning its membership rolls, may be just the right movement, in this political climate and times to do this. I will address this issue further.... Shalom Jeremy
In today's New York Times there is an article about a non-sectarian evangelical church that recently purchased an arena in Texas that holds thirty thousand congregants. Wow! And the article went further to state that they anticipate that their membership will exceed 100,000. They also broadcast their services to an average audience of over 2.8 million people.
Does Judaism, or should I say, is there a Jewish leader who could command such a following of new members to the faith? Is there someone or something that can be done to convert Judaism from a religion that is limited, because of low birth rates, intermarriage, death, etc. from growing from the extremely low world estimates of 13-16 million? I believe we must convert Judaism from being a surviving religion to a growing religion.
I continue to wonder why Judaism has failed and/or refused to convert itself from a religion that always looks inward and fails and/or refuses to look outward to the non-jew to grow the faith.
Being part of the "covenant" should not mean that you must be born of Jewish parent(s). Being part of the covenant should mean that based upon a belief and/or acceptance in the tenets of the Judaism you seek to live and worship as a Jew.
I wonder if the continued perception of the Jewish people as the persecuted could be flipped on its head to make being Jewish a badge of honor and pride that humankind has seen and done heinous things and from such atrocities the flower of the Jewish people continues to bloom.
Where do these thoughts lead? I believe that Judaism has simply failed to attach any importance to conversion of the non-jew to grow the religion. I believe that there has to be a reexamination of this issue and that Judaism should devote financial resources and person-power to advance this idea. And the conservative movement, with its problems concerning its membership rolls, may be just the right movement, in this political climate and times to do this. I will address this issue further.... Shalom Jeremy
Friday, July 15, 2005
A Summer Shabbat
Well, I guess you could say that we are truly in the middle of the summer of 2005 and this is another summer Shabbat.
Last I checked (since I have not been outside since about 1:00pm and it is now almost 4:30pm) , this is a warm and muggy Friday afternoon.
Maybe, as a change of pace, I am going to suggest to my beloved that we eat a Shabbat dinner outside and light the candles and say the prayers outside as the summer sun begins to set. Maybe, we will watch the sunset and think about the events of the week gone by and the weeks to come.
Life is extremely busy and Shabbat is an opportunity to step back from what one can call the "daily rush".
So, on behalf of my family, have a calm and relaxing Shabbat dinner with your family/friends.
Shabbat Shalom. Jeremy
Last I checked (since I have not been outside since about 1:00pm and it is now almost 4:30pm) , this is a warm and muggy Friday afternoon.
Maybe, as a change of pace, I am going to suggest to my beloved that we eat a Shabbat dinner outside and light the candles and say the prayers outside as the summer sun begins to set. Maybe, we will watch the sunset and think about the events of the week gone by and the weeks to come.
Life is extremely busy and Shabbat is an opportunity to step back from what one can call the "daily rush".
So, on behalf of my family, have a calm and relaxing Shabbat dinner with your family/friends.
Shabbat Shalom. Jeremy
Monday, July 11, 2005
How can we "never forget" that which was never learned
Last night, FHC showed Schindler's List, a 1993 movie directed by Steven Spielberg. It is an extraordinary movie which presents the Holocaust in an unvarnished light. In fact, I had suggested in a prior blog entry, that the movie not be viewed by anyone under 13 years of age. Apparently, almost our entire congregation must be under the age of 13, or, our congregants are unwilling to have our young adults experience a movie that is supposed to, in my opinion, help us to "never forget". How unfortunate. (Moreover, FHC also showed a children's movie in a separate room with free babysitting that was simply not utilized.)
A movie such as Schindler's List should be mandatory viewing in the Hebrew School (or high school) and quite possibly in the public schools, to provide everyone an education as to what we all are supposed to "never forget". Was it not just a few months ago we all were talking about the anti-semitism that was rearing its ugly head again in our local public schools. How quickly we forget that which was never learned...
Instead, it appears that while we shy away from the images of Nazi Germany, and the horrendous history of the Ghettos and Concentration Camps, we willingly purchase BMW, Volkswagen and Mercedes. While we are unwilling to inflict or experience (only though film), the pain of the past, we are more than willing to enjoy the current pleasures of a nation that attempted to anniliate us as a people.
It is ironic that an entire generation of Jewish children may no longer have parents or grandparents who can personally relate the events of this history and future generations will have to rely upon museums, books, movies and images of a time past. Elie Weisel said "Never Forget". I think for the present and future generations of our Jewish people we must remember that the History must first be truly known so that we "never forget". We must use every opportunity to provide such history lessons and reminders to our children and to ourselves to "Learn, to never forget". Shalom Jeremy
A movie such as Schindler's List should be mandatory viewing in the Hebrew School (or high school) and quite possibly in the public schools, to provide everyone an education as to what we all are supposed to "never forget". Was it not just a few months ago we all were talking about the anti-semitism that was rearing its ugly head again in our local public schools. How quickly we forget that which was never learned...
Instead, it appears that while we shy away from the images of Nazi Germany, and the horrendous history of the Ghettos and Concentration Camps, we willingly purchase BMW, Volkswagen and Mercedes. While we are unwilling to inflict or experience (only though film), the pain of the past, we are more than willing to enjoy the current pleasures of a nation that attempted to anniliate us as a people.
It is ironic that an entire generation of Jewish children may no longer have parents or grandparents who can personally relate the events of this history and future generations will have to rely upon museums, books, movies and images of a time past. Elie Weisel said "Never Forget". I think for the present and future generations of our Jewish people we must remember that the History must first be truly known so that we "never forget". We must use every opportunity to provide such history lessons and reminders to our children and to ourselves to "Learn, to never forget". Shalom Jeremy
Tuesday, July 05, 2005
Shekels paid to FHC
By now you should have received your 2005-2006 invoices from FHC. I certainly did. I must say, it is not economical to be an active Jewish member family of FHC. If you add up the full dues for a family, the bat mitzvah fee, the hebrew high school dues, the school dues for my youngest, the Men's club dues and Sisterhood dues, not to mention all the additional monies paid throughout the year, it amounts to significant shekels.
But should one put a price to the value of being part of the larger Jewish family of Northern Westchester? Is there a cost-benefit analysis that one should do before deciding to be a member at FHC, or for that matter any other congregation? Should one consider whether it is more valuable to invest that money in the stock market, home improvements, or even dinners and movies out? Are these valid comparisons?
Or, do we evaluate what we "get out" of FHC and decide whether or not FHC is worth the costs incurred?
Or, as I suggest, assuming one can afford it, do we consider the shekels expended to be part of an investment in the continuity of the Jewish people and the continuation of Jewish rituals and observance?
I would prefer to think of the shekels paid as my personal investment in the future and survival of Judaism. In addition to my time, energy and committment to Judaism, and the raising of Jewish children, the shekels paid to FHC help to keep the lights burning, the teachers teaching and the Rabbi leading services. The shekels paid to FHC are a statement of hope in the future of our Jewish community.
Years ago, I watched as a Reform congregation in the Bronx closed its doors and sold its building to another religion's congregation. It was heartbreaking to witness the death of the congregation and the loss of that community. I felt that the Bronx congregation was yet another "set of doorposts" that would no longer welcome the newborn, the elderly, the bar/bat mitzvah, and the couples to be married into its warm and welcoming arms.
FHC is a welcoming "set of doorposts" that serve our Jewish community. With your support, and yes, your shekels, the FHC doorposts will continue to serve its vital role in our community.
Shalom. Jeremy
But should one put a price to the value of being part of the larger Jewish family of Northern Westchester? Is there a cost-benefit analysis that one should do before deciding to be a member at FHC, or for that matter any other congregation? Should one consider whether it is more valuable to invest that money in the stock market, home improvements, or even dinners and movies out? Are these valid comparisons?
Or, do we evaluate what we "get out" of FHC and decide whether or not FHC is worth the costs incurred?
Or, as I suggest, assuming one can afford it, do we consider the shekels expended to be part of an investment in the continuity of the Jewish people and the continuation of Jewish rituals and observance?
I would prefer to think of the shekels paid as my personal investment in the future and survival of Judaism. In addition to my time, energy and committment to Judaism, and the raising of Jewish children, the shekels paid to FHC help to keep the lights burning, the teachers teaching and the Rabbi leading services. The shekels paid to FHC are a statement of hope in the future of our Jewish community.
Years ago, I watched as a Reform congregation in the Bronx closed its doors and sold its building to another religion's congregation. It was heartbreaking to witness the death of the congregation and the loss of that community. I felt that the Bronx congregation was yet another "set of doorposts" that would no longer welcome the newborn, the elderly, the bar/bat mitzvah, and the couples to be married into its warm and welcoming arms.
FHC is a welcoming "set of doorposts" that serve our Jewish community. With your support, and yes, your shekels, the FHC doorposts will continue to serve its vital role in our community.
Shalom. Jeremy
SCHINDLER'S LIST JULY 10, 2005 8PM & CHILDREN'S MOVIE
On Sunday July 10, 2005 FHC will be showing Schindler's List. This is an incredibly moving story which should be seen by all mature adults. (In my opinion, this movie should not be viewed by anyone under thirteen.)
Accordingly, and as a result of the efforts of one of our fine member families, we will also be showing, in a separate room, the animated Joseph and the Prince of Egypt for our younger audiences.
This will allow younger children to come to this movie night and see a movie more suitable for their age.
There is no admission for these movies which are part of the FHC Summer movie series.
So, instead of watching mediocre TV/cable or going to see another summer special effects movie, come to FHC.
Shalom. Jeremy
Accordingly, and as a result of the efforts of one of our fine member families, we will also be showing, in a separate room, the animated Joseph and the Prince of Egypt for our younger audiences.
This will allow younger children to come to this movie night and see a movie more suitable for their age.
There is no admission for these movies which are part of the FHC Summer movie series.
So, instead of watching mediocre TV/cable or going to see another summer special effects movie, come to FHC.
Shalom. Jeremy
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