On Friday, September 16, 2016, Congregation Rodeph Sholom celebrated our first of a year-long slate of 175th anniversary events with a kick-off Shabbat and a spectacular oneg featuring a klezmer band and fantastic food.
The big night took months in the planning with co-chairs Dina Bakst and Laurie Ravetiz leading a dedicated team, including Keri Bernstein, Robin Levitin, Rachelle Brown, Julie Lichtstein, Steve Cooper, Talia Siegel, Harry Frischer and Tammy Sloan. They created many special touches—from teeny flashlights so we could all light the Shabbat candles to kippot with our 175th anniversary logo.
Nearly 1,000 congregants and friends gathered to end the week in worship and joyous celebration with rousing music and remarks by Senior Rabbi Robert N. Levine and Board President Marty Flumenbaum about our ability to remain responsive while carrying forward our traditions and culture. A special highlight was hearing from Rodeph Sholom School Head Elect Danny Karpf.
To close the service, everyone who had ever sung in the children’s choir was invited to the bimah, filling the space completely. Using our penlights again, we waved our arms as we sang Adon Olam. To end the service, the New York Klezmer-All Star Band led a processional and the congregation followed them downstairs to the Schafler Forum.
The hall and the Rosenhirsch were beautifully decorated with handmade centerpieces that included large votive candle holders with images of the shul and our congregants on them. There was a gourmet spread featuring delicious tartlets, Chinese noodles and other delights.
While some nibbled others danced, and some sat at the tables set in the hall and the Rosenhirsch Room and shared memories of good times, and created new memories.
Special thanks are also due to Steering Committee Chairs Rob Steinman, Robin Kranich and Jerilyn Perman, who have worked tirelessly to put together our 175th celebration year.
Thank you to every one for your hard work, and what a great night! Our next event is Mitzvah Weekend, November 11-13. See you then.
