(Courtesy of YI of Fort Lee) On Sunday, June 11, members and friends of the Young Israel of Fort Lee will gather for a festive gala brunch to honor and bid farewell to Rabbi Zev and Dr. Michal Goldberg. The Goldberg family will be moving to Bergenfield over the summer as they begin their new roles as the rabbi and rebbetzin of the Bais Medrash of Bergenfield (BMOB).
The Goldbergs moved to Fort Lee in 2014, when the previous rabbi and rebbetzin of Young Israel of Fort Lee, Rabbi Neil and Andrea Winkler, made aliyah. Since then, Rabbi Goldberg and Michal have been instrumental in fostering the growth of the Fort Lee community from 100 to nearly 170 members.
Rabbi Goldberg explained, “Attracting people to Fort Lee is not a hard sell. For starters, the real estate is unique. There are luxurious high-rise apartments offering sweeping views of NYC at a fraction of the cost you would pay in the city. Many of the buildings have Shabbat elevators and a host of amenities, including swimming pools, tennis courts and fitness centers. People are genuinely happy to sell their homes and live in close proximity to their children and grandchildren in Bergenfield, Englewood, Teaneck and beyond.”
But it is not just the real estate market that has driven people to move to Fort Lee. Rabbi Goldberg and Michal have created a warm and welcoming shul environment that is also known for its robust educational and social activities.
Rabbi Goldberg noted, “I am particularly proud that many people have moved to Fort Lee and joined the shul even if they have not previously been members of an Orthodox synagogue. We try hard to create an atmosphere where everyone is celebrated for who they are.”
Harry Wild, president of YIFL said, “Rabbi Goldberg suffuses rabbinic leadership with a warmth and kindness that sets the tone for the whole community. The truth is, the entire Goldberg family displays the same warmth. They are loved by our kehila and we are really going to miss them.”
While the Goldbergs will not be moving until midsummer, the June 11 gala brunch is the formal event to say thank you for nine years of dedicated service. The program will feature a presentation by the mayor of Fort Lee and brief remarks by members of the shul. A delicious dairy brunch will be served for all to enjoy.
Members of the Bergen County community are encouraged to attend and pay tribute to Rabbi Zev and Dr. Michal Goldberg. Reservations can be made on the shul website, www.yiftlee.org under the “Brunch” tab.
