Congregation Shomrei Torah of Fair Lawn will hold its 42nd Annual Dinner program at Keter Torah in Teaneck at 6 p.m. on Sunday March 19.
The “guest of honor” this year is outstanding and unique. The “guest” is responsible for the increased study of Torah by many in the community and is also responsible for progeny that also have done so much for so many, including the contributions to various charities. The “guest” is the Torah Tuesday program. Accepting the award on behalf of the program is Mendy Aron. Torah Tuesday, started 10 years ago, was Mendy’s brainchild. He developed and nurtured the program from its birth to its much-admired status today. With his creative abilities, he continues to develop and improve the program as well as make blueprints for other affiliated activities. This has been Mendy’s calling since he retired as first deputy executive director (commissioner) of the New York City Employee’s Retirement System. At one point he was the acting commissioner.
The other honorees are two distinguished couples, Laurette and Bernie Rothwachs and Yael and Ari Mayefsky. One couple has spent virtually their entire lives volunteering, contributing and giving to Jewish causes of all kinds. The other represents our future—a young, dynamic team that in both their professional and personal lives give so much of themselves for the sake of others.
The David I. Goldberg Ohr Chesed honorees are Laurette and Bernie Rothwachs. They moved to Fair Lawn in 1982, the same year that the Learning Disabilities Program, later known as SINAI Schools, was launched. Immediately Laurette directed her passion and energy into this new program. She will forever be linked to it for her selfless efforts and contributions. Bernie, too, immersed himself in Shomrei Torah, becoming a member of many committees, the Chevra Kadisha as well as board of directors. Not surprisingly, the Rothwachs children are also making their marks as Jewish community leaders.
Our Young Leadership recognition award goes to Yael and Ari Mayefsky. Yael, who has a doctorate in psychology, is a supervisor and director of high risk cases at Bikur Cholim of Rockland County. Ari is the director of human services there. Yael and Ari, who have three young children of their own, also serve as the shul’s youth directors. A more warm and friendly couple you’re unlikely to encounter. Couple this with their knowledge of Torah and all things Jewish along with their special abilities and talents they so willingly share with others and you can understand why they are so deserving of this award and why we are so fortunate to have them in our shul family.
By Irving Gerber
