Congregation celebrates the arts

Monroe — “Welcome to 'The Arts Light The Way,’ a delightful evening of arts and music. Tonight you will have the opportunity to hear live music, visit an art gallery, and talk to the artists.” With these opening remarks, Cantor Elena Schwartz welcomed patrons, families and friends to an evening at Temple Beth-El, Monroe Temple of Liberal Judaism. “Artists from the greater Orange County, and as far away as California, displayed their art work” said Joan Dominus, co-chair of the fine arts committee. “In addition to a silent auction, younger patrons were treated to a docent tour, led by Youth Group members.” Artists each donated a piece of art work for a silent auction, as well as offering their work for sale. Proceeds from the auction and concert went to the Harry Hirschberg Music Fund, which plays an instrumental part in funding musical events at the temple, “It is hard to visualize Chanukah without music, no matter how far back we go in Jewish history” Schwartz said. “During the festive holiday this year, we combined our yearly concert with an art show.” The concert artists consisted of Schwartz and Cantor Sergei Schwartz as well as Sandra Sussman, Bob Pollsen and David Jones, along with the beautiful Monroe Temple Adult Choir. “The Adult Choir members have become an integral part of our musical events and our services, and the evening displayed their extraordinary musical talent,” she added. “A classy gallery, sweet music during the art show, followed by more sweet music during the concert” Rabbi Garry A. Loeb offered. “What a lovely evening was had by all.” Choir Bob Pollsen Bonnie Goldmacher Cecille Jones Charlene Hirschberg Daryl Bailin David Hill David Jones Dorothy Schulman Joan Dominus Mary Haberman Meryl Migdel Nina Rubin Randi Hertzman Roslyn D’Onofrio Sandy Gamzon Sandy Sussman Steve Newman Soloists Sandra Sussman David Jones Bob Pollsen Cantor Elena Schwartz Cantor Sergei Schwartz Musical Accompaniment Garry Gregory Barton Schindler Jay Solomon Laura Rabin Greco Nina Rubin