East
Rabbi Jonathan Feldman
MJE East Head Honcho
Rosh Hashanah is always exciting for me because I get to blow my own horn. This is great for me, because I am tone deaf and never even attempted to play an instrument, so the Shofar is my one musical outlet. Of course the Shofar is more than an instrument; it is the voice emanating from our souls up to heaven. We look forward to inspiring each other and to getting together with a great crowd of young people for a fun and inspiring High Holiday experience.
Rabbi Baruch Freedman
East Side Educational Coordinator
Things I look forward to most on Rosh Hashana growing up…
Between Pesach and Rosh Hashana my mother decided it’s too hot in NYC to make hot soup, so it’s fruit soup and cantaloupe for all those months. Rosh Hashana is the time when, even though white is worn after labor day…it has been decided by the powers that be that it’s winter time and we can make chicken soup with Matzoh Balls. My Ima’s Matzoh balls…Larry David could do an episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm about them. Not suggesting he does though. That’s what I look forward to– after 6 months of hibernation the Matzoh Ball family comes out to play–and are quickly gobbled up by lurking predators. Sorry mishpachat Matzoh Ball
Abraham “Avi” Gewirtz
Cantor, Uplifter
…it has happened in the past, while the ground is still frozen solid with the darkness of winter, there is a warm breeze that hints that sunshine is just around the corner…other times there are small birds chirping that let you know springtime is almost here. For the coming new year, there will be a six foot four tall guy (A.K.A. ‘Big A’) that will help you realize the significance of the High Holy Days, and inspire your praying and our collective celebration to a level of greatness. The singing is contagious and will bring you to new spiritual heights….so come help make sure we are all inscribed and sealed in the book of life for the coming new year… Amen!
Erica Tannenbaum
East Side Program Coordinator, Social Director and Facilitator of Fun
This time last year, Erica had just arrived in Israel where she was lucky enough to have spent all holidays from Rosh Hashana to Passover. Having ushered in the New Year in LA, London and even Indiana. This year, will be her first in NYC. One is encouraged to eat something new on Rosh Hashana, but coming from a family that believes in trying everything at least once led to a yearly exploration far beyond the pomegranate. Jack Fruit anyone? This year Erica plans to expand her taste buds in the form of liquor. So raise your glass of Absolut Orient Apple Martinis– l’chaim!
