We want to compliment Nati Burnside for his thorough and informative article about the kosher scene and vacationing activities in Long Branch, New Jersey (“Long Branch: Who’s Ready for Summer?” June 29, 2023). We want to call attention though, to the vibrant Ashkenaz summer community that has grown in Long Branch in recent years.

Many already know of the significant Syrian Jewish community in the Deal/Long Branch area, but there has also been an Ashkenaz Modern Orthodox community here for decades affiliated with our shul, Congregation Brothers of Israel. With an influx of Ashkenazim from North Jersey, Central Jersey and Manhattan spending their summer months on the Long Branch shore, our shul provides two locations for Shabbat and Yom Tov davening, with one of those locations also open for all weekday davening and events. The Sternberger Avenue location mentioned in the article (which is the location only opened on Shabbat) is within walking distance to Pier Village, the Wave Hotel and the boardwalk, all encompassed by our shul’s eruv.

While the summer is “prime time,” both locations are open all year long and visitors are always welcome. More information can be found on the Congregation Brothers of Israel website, brothersisrael.org.

Also, in addition to the many eateries Nati reviewed, there are actually more kosher establishments in the Long Branch and general area listed on the website for the local hashgacha organization, JSOR (Jersey Shore Orthodox Rabbinate).

Thanks again to Nati for his excellent article highlighting Long Branch.

Zahava and Marvin Sher
Long Branch, NJ