New synagogue opens Oct. 20 with humorist Leo Lieberman

Monroe — Congregation Eitz Chaim will open its new synagogue on Orange Turnpike with an evening featuring columnist, author, humorist, essayist, poet, author, professor, and lecturer, Leo Lieberman, walking the walk and talking the talk with his “Memories of Laughter and Garlic.” The event will take place on Saturday, Oct. 20, at 7:15 p.m. “I first heard one of Leo Lieberman’s stories ... read ... at ... Shavu’ot,” said Rabbi Elliot Dorff, Ph.D., rector and distinguished professor of philosophy, American Jewish University( formerly the University of Judaism) in Los Angeles. “It was about learning social responsibility from his grandmother, who insisted that he accompany her when he was a boy to play with the other children at the Jewish orphans’ home.... I was so impressed by it that ... I then used it for my inauguration as President of Jewish Family Service in Los Angeles, and then, with his permission, as part of my book on Jewish social ethics, ‘To Do the Right and the Good. Leo is a gem!” The cost is $20 in advance or $25 at the door. This includes a cocktail hour with gourmet hors d’oeuvres and the show, followed by a dessert reception and book-signing. Dietary laws are observed. Call 783-7424 to reserve tickets.