NJ Event Tributes to Women

Two women who exemplify the inner and outer beauty of the Jewish Queen Esther were honored during Chabad of Western Monmouth County’s 25th annual Jewish Women’s Day program, on Sunday, February 10 at the Freehold Jewish Center, 50 Broad Street.

The annual event held in memory of Rebbitzen Chaya Moushka Schneerson OBM, was highlighted by Proclamations issued by Marlboro Township Mayor Jonathan Hornik, Manalapan Township Mayor Susan Cohen and Freehold Township Mayor

The event, which featured a lavish brunch and Chinese auction, was held prior to the Festival of Purim, which pays tribute to Queen Esther. Captured by her beauty, King Ahashverosh selected Esther from among all of the young women in his land to be his bride. When she revealed that she was Jewish, the king nullified a decree against the Jews and spared their lives.

A modern-day beauty queen, Ilana Skolnik, who wore the crown of Miss South Africa South and represented her country in the 1973 Miss World Competition held at London’s Royal Albert Hall, was the guest speaker. Born Ellen Peters, she described her inspiring journey that began in a mixed-race Protestant family under Apartheid to life as a convert to Judaism in Israel.

Elyse Zinger of Marlboro, NJ was honored with the Aishes Chayil (Woman of Valor) award during the brunch. Inspired by the past and present generations of her family, as well as by Chabad, she embarked on a path of spiritual growth that has enhanced her life. Her journey has elevated her roles as a wife, mother, dental hygienist, student, and volunteer.

Her introduction to Chabad began with a weekly Parsha (Torah portion) class. Immediately “hooked,” she began to take more classes and attend Shabbat (Sabbath) and holiday services. Her participation has included volunteering at events and making gift baskets for previous Women’s Day brunches, as well as Purim baskets. She has participated in Chabad’s Friendship Circle activities, and participates in its annual Walk for Friends.

A graduate of New York City Technical College (NYCTC) in Brooklyn, Zinger earned her Dental Hygiene degree and later received a B.S. in Science and Applied Technology from Thomas Edison State College, Trenton. A member of the American Dental Hygienist Association and former Recording Secretary of the Central New Jersey Dental Hygienist Association, Zinger works as a dental hygienist in Hazlet.

The Jewish Women’s symposium is coordinated by the Shluchos of Western Monmouth County, NJ: Tova Chazanow, Zisi Bernstein, Sarah Schapiro, Chana’le Wolosow, Moushkie Volovick and Rochie Galperin.