B’nai Jeshurun celebrates 170th birthday

Founded in Newark in 1848, Temple B’nai Jeshurun (TBJ) of Short Hills, the second oldest Reform Jewish congregation in New Jersey, will celebrate its 170th anniversary with a gala celebration featuring cocktails, dinner, and dancing on Thursday, May 10, at 7 p.m. at the temple. 

Several individuals will be honored at the event, themed “Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow,” which pays tribute to the temple’s past presidents, the Interfaith Hospitality Network Founding Organizers, and the synagogue’s Rabbi Barry H. Greene Early Childhood Center Parents’ Association founding chairs.

Among the honorees are Linda K. Levi of Livingston, who served as TBJ’s president from 1998 to 2000. She has held volunteer leadership positions in National Council of Jewish Women, American Jewish Committee, and as past president of NJ Jewish News. She sits on the Board of Overseers of Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. 

Harriet Perlmutter-Pilchik of West Orange served as president from 1978 to 1980, and remains a member of several committees; she also helped establish the Nursery School.  

Get New Jersey Jewish News's Newsletter by email and never miss our top stories Free Sign Up

Jerry Harwood, president of the synagogue from 1980 to 1982, will be honored posthumously. His wife Ruthella will represent him. 

Another honoree, Richard Zucker of Springfield, was TBJ’s president from 2001-2002 and remains active in the Greater MetroWest community as a vice president of Jewish Vocational Service of MetroWest NJ.

Cost is $85. For tickets, visit wizadjournal.com/cbj170/?id=2478 or call 973-379-3177.