In Honor of Sidney and Vivien Lechter

Some forty plus years ago, Vivian (of blessed memory) and Sidney joined Congregation Shomrei Emunah. At the time, we had no idea how special and vital they would become to the life of our Synagogue.

Sid was the driving force in bringing the Jewish War Veterans’ Post 47 to our Shul. He was Commander of the Post and ultimately moved up the ranks to the level of State Commander. When Sid told me he was moving, I asked him if there was a Post in Michigan. Yes, he said, two of them, and I am sure either one will be blessed to count him among one of theirs. Vivian always saw to the breakfast after the monthly meetings. They always invited the Sunday morning minyan to join them; lucky for me, because I was often there. Vivian was a great hostess, somehow knowing just the correct amount of food needed, and always how to make that food look and taste delicious. Beyond all that, her friendly personality was infectious, insuring that everyone felt welcome. Continue reading

Tributes to Vivien Lichter

VivOn Sunday, April 19,  there was a touching memorial for Vivien Lichter. Many of the speakers at the service were Shomrei people – Rabbi Greenstein, Toby Stein, Aileen Grossberg, Dale Russakoff and me [Shirley Grill] – and our stories were about Viv and Shomrei…It felt like a story of Shomrei as well as Vivien.

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Jewish War Veterans Educational Grants

JWV.veterans.logo_The Jewish War Veterans Post that meets at Shomrei Emunah is offering an opportunity for graduating high school seniors to compete for one of three grants of up to $500 each. The minimum requirement is that they must be direct lineal descendants of a living or deceased member in good standing of Essex-Preiskel-Miller-Glassberg Post 47 or the former North Essex Post 146 of the Jewish War Veterans of the USA. “Direct lineal descendant” is defined as a child, grandchild, great-grandchild, etc. of the member. Children of patrons or honorary members are excluded. Continue reading