Oheb Shalom celebrates emigres with concert

SOUTH ORANGE, NJ — Oheb Shalom Congregation celebrates the 25-year anniversary of helping more than 40 emigres from the former Soviet Union resettle in this area with a free musical performance by professional cellist and former emigre Andrey Tchekmazov. The free concert will take place on Saturday, Nov. 19, at 7:30 p.m. at Oheb Shalom, 170 Scotland Road in South Orange.

Tchekmazov, one of the children originally settled through Oheb Shalom’s efforts, requested the opportunity to show his gratitude through a concert performance. Hailed by critics as an “extraordinary musician,” the cellist is known for his versatility as a soloist, recitalist and chamber musician.

Oheb Shalom was among the foremost supporters in welcoming emigres from the former Soviet Union to the United States in the 1990s. Oheb Shalom congregants assisted new Americans with learning English, securing and cleaning apartments, negotiating the Social Security system, finding jobs and transportation needs. Donations of everything from cars and furniture, to food and clothing were organized in an effort that lasted over many years. Out of this project grew two important community initiatives: the Bobrow Kosher Food Pantry, which continues to serve needy families across northern New Jersey, and the Oheb Shalom Free Loan Society, which is now the Hebrew Free Loan organization of New Jersey.

“When we came to U.S. we were so lost and scared — and suddenly Oheb shalom invited Jewish refugees to the synagogue,” Ella Shmoys, another emigre settled through Oheb Shalom, said in a press release. “So many kind people approached us, and even though we could not understand English, we felt their open hearts. They embraced us, encouraged us to be real American citizens and free Jews. The synagogue showed me how my kids could be bat mitzvah, have a Jewish wedding. They gave them a future, and opened our eyes to Jewish traditions.”

Inna Gulberg, chairwoman of this reunion event, also originally settled through Oheb Shalom. “During the evening, guests will have opportunities to reminisce and share accomplishments,” she said.

For more information, call the Oheb Shalom office at 973-762-7067 or visit http://www.OhebShalom.org. For more information on Tchekmazov, visit http://www.andreytchekmazov.com/.

  Oheb Shalom