Preserving Jewish stories, and passing them on

For Peninnah Schram, folklore is a tradition to be shared in person

by Elaine Durbach

February 1, 2012

Peninnah Schram has published 10 books about Jewish storytelling and has made numerous recordings, but her preferred mode of communication is face to face. If people will sing along with her where the story allows, even better. Read More

At Israel event, few sparks, and little agreement

Synagogue hosts panel with opposing views on achieving security

by Elaine Durbach

February 1, 2012

At least one goal was achieved in the panel discussion on Israel held at Temple Emanu-El in Westfield on Jan. 29: Despite deep differences, the exchange was totally civil, and there were even moments of agreement. Read More

Hillside consignment store trims the high price of wigs

by Elaine Durbach

January 25, 2012

Rimona Hornung has always been intrigued by the idea of consignment stores. “After you’re done with something, why not consign it and make some money back?” she asked. Read More

Israel support sought with debate, video contest

Events aim to reach across range of age, politics, denominations

by Elaine Durbach

January 17, 2012

In an effort to get beyond divisive arguments and rally support for Israel, local organizers have lined up two programs, a panel debate and a video contest. They are intended to reach across the spectrum of age, denomination, and political views. Read More

Y celebrates leaders old and new — and a shidduch

by Elaine Durbach

January 17, 2012

Clara Kramer was beaming as she left the annual raffle dinner at the YM-YWHA of Union County on Jan. 14, where she and her late husband Sol were honored. She was reveling in the past, and looking to the future. “It was as if I had my life laid out in front of me,” she said. Read More

Bruriah graduates hold rare reunion

Despite short notice, a healthy turnout for unusual gathering

by Elaine Durbach

January 17, 2012

Most high school reunions are months or even years in the planning. Not so the 10-year reunion of the Class of 2001 at the Jewish Educational Center’s Bruriah High School for Girls in Elizabeth. Read More

All’s sababa as emissary offers Hebrew lessons

Natalie Elgrabli uses classroom, Facebook to spread the words

by Elaine Durbach

January 11, 2012

Natalie Elgrabli is using old ways and new to cultivate a knowledge of Hebrew. The Israeli, serving as shliha — or emissary — to the Central New Jersey community for the year, is teaching the language face-to-face and via Facebook. Read More

Love, loss, and a grandmother’s advice

Ilene Beckerman’s newest book recalls her poignant youth

by Elaine Durbach

January 11, 2012

For what’s wrong on your inside, Ettie Goldberg would recommend hot tea and lemon; and “for everything wrong outside the body — Vaseline.” Read More

Aid restored for teens wanting to visit Israel

by Elaine Durbach

January 4, 2012

Though finances are still tight, after a two-year hiatus, the Jewish Federation of Central New Jersey is again offering financial aid to young people who want to visit Israel. Read More