(Courtesy of the JEC Elmora Avenue Shul) On June 11, the JEC Elmora Avenue Shul (the “Shul”), in Elizabeth, held its annual dinner. Over 100 members and friends attended the gala celebration at the YM-YWHA of Union County. The dinner honored esteemed and devoted members Laura and Jonathan Silverstein and Bayle and Charles, z’’l, Tarlowe.
Several noteworthy speakers addressed the crowd including Rav Elazar Meir Teitz, Rav Ha-Ir; Rabbi Avrohom Herman, rav of the Elmora Avenue Shul; and Tzvi Buchsbaum, the master of ceremonies for the evening. Each speaker extolled the many virtues and projects led by both sets of honorees. Laura and Jonathan Silverstein are well known for spearheading and actively supporting many programs, most notably the popular, annual community-wide Cholent Cook-Off. Accepting their award, Jonathan shared how important this shul and community are to his family. He quoted Laura, “While our community is diverse—some black hats, some kipot srugot, some women wear pants, some wear sheitels, we all get along.” In short, the Silversteins cannot think of a better place to live and raise their family.
Rochelle Tarlowe, daughter of Charles and Bayle, spoke fondly about how her family was so intertwined with the JEC shul and community over several decades. Although Bayle Tarlowe will shortly be moving out of Elizabeth, the family will always stay connected.
Rabbi Herman announced that a generous donation was made by the Tarlowe family to support the shul’s youth department and the upcoming kickoff of a youth department campaign. He reminisced about the Tarlowes’ participation in the shul for decades. Charles Tarlowe was a well-respected member who was known for his annual Yomim Noraim aliyos auction, in addition to his recital of Maftir Yonah every Yom Kippur, for which he always gave a substantial donation to the shul. To honor his memory, the shul will place a plaque on the bimah next to where he stood.
Rabbi Herman concluded his remarks by pointing out the many wonderful young families who have moved into the neighborhood, who, through their growing involvement in the shul, will carry on the rich legacy of the Elizabeth Jewish community.
The dinner was beautifully catered by Majestic Glatt Kosher Catering, one of several prominent caterers in the Elizabeth community.
