In 1987, Linda and Yechiel, and 3 little boys under 5 years old, followed the Silver family out to Montclair, a year after we had moved here. We had been acquaintances from our Brooklyn synagogue and had mutual friends, but we, ourselves, were never really friends.
Of course, that quickly changed once the Ariel/Felders arrived. The “acquaintance” evolved into friendship, the friendship often felt like family. Continue reading
Tomatoes beg to be paired with basil; zucchini and cucumbers creep across the yard with abandon; watermelons are sweet as sugar as August winds down. The unofficial end of summer is around the corner and we will soon celebrate the harvest season.
But we still have many weeks to enjoy earth’s bounty with recipes from Shomrei cooks and Kiddushes.
This month the recipe column features one of Shomrei’s most well-known members. Rita Singer and her late husband Eric practically kept the synagogue going. Eric took care of the building and grounds while Rita supervised the flowers and indoctrinated many members in the secrets of hallah. Rita is also a regular on the Kiddush prep squad, specializing in perfectly sliced tomatoes. In addition, Rita is an expert quilter, baker, community activist and a generous and gracious hostess. Enjoy this dish which is a perfect accompaniment to almost anything.
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On top of Mount Kilimanjaro
A Very Sweet Remembrance of Eric Singer by Deanna London
In 1981, having just move to Glen Ridge from Brooklyn, I was shul shopping. On a Friday evening I walked into Shomrei Emunah, through the then front door. I was alone and knew no one. I entered the beautiful sanctuary and was face to face with a tall, rather elegant man, who with a deep and booming voice asked “who are you.” I told him my name and asked in return “who are you?” He answered “Eric Singer.” In that same voice, he asked “what are you doing for the holidays (it was just before Rosh Hashanah).” Nothing I replied. His response was, “then you’ll be my guest here.” And so began my relationship with both Eric and Congregation Shomrei Emunah. Eric knew the importance of making people feel welcome and at ease. I treasure my conversations with both Eric and Rita. I will miss him, his Yiddish jokes and puns. Rest in peace friend. Continue reading