Cantor Laureate Sarah J. Sager
CELEBRATING 40+ YEARS JUNE 12, 2022
To our Dear Friend and Trusted Advisor Cantor Laureate Sarah Sager Mazel Tov on 40+ distinguished years at Fairmount Temple. May you continue to go from strength to strength! With gratitude and love, Women of Fairmount Temple
CELEBRATING SARAH SAGER
+ 40 Years
This tribute to Cantor Sarah Sager is a historic event not only for Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple, but for Reform Judaism and for all of Jewish history. There surely have been a few cantors who served one congregation for their entire career. There may have been a couple of cantors who served one congregation for 40 years. But it is unlikely that any Jewish congregation has had one female cantor for 40 years! Welcome to Jewish history, friends. Cantor Sager is a pioneer. Rabbi Lelyveld, who invited her to be our cantor, was a visionary. And Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple is a historic congregation. Rabbi Lelyveld led this congregation for 27 years. Rabbi Brickner led us for 33 years. And Cantor Sager has led us for more than 40 years. Cantor Sager’s attributes are well known and legendary. She is a profoundly accomplished singer. She is a moving and inspiring leader of prayer. She is a wonderful teacher of adults and children. She is a Bar and Bat Mitzvah coach extraordinaire. She presents the most meaningful, sensitive and powerful blessings and eulogies imaginable. And she has led us and counseled us as a congregation and as individuals with heartfelt love, caring and sensitivity. She has raised us up. Endowing the Sarah J. Sager Cantorial Chair in honor of our friend and religious leader ensures her legacy at this historic congregation for the ages to come. We hope everyone will contribute as they are able. We are grateful for Cantor Sarah Sager’s years of warmth and dedication to this congregation through the good times and through some tough times. She has been our rock. And she has developed profound relationships with countless congregants and others the world over. We are so very privileged and deeply blessed to honor and share our appreciation and love to Cantor Sager tonight. Co-Chairpersons: Abby and Tom Abelson Cyndy and Mark Fellenbaum Bonnie and Steve Spiegle
These words of appreciation are excerpted from longer remarks which Cantor Sager offered two years ago at the Shabbat Evening Service on June 26, 2020, marking her final service as full-time Cantor before transitioning to part-time Cantor Laureate. In 1980, when I began at Fairmount Temple, I never would have envisioned the connections I would build and foster over these last four decades. We have been together through times filled with joy and sorrow, celebrating with three and now even some four generations of our Fairmount Temple family. In the Torah portion, Chukkat, in the immediate aftermath of singing their Song of Thanksgiving, the Israelites travel to a location called Mattanah, which literally means “Gift.” For the Israelites, Mattanah was a stopping point. For me, it has been the place where I have lived for more than 40 years. And more than anything, it is the people who have lived here with me who have made it the gift that keeps on giving. I could happily name every one of you who is reading this, who has befriended me, or with whom I have connected over the last 40 years. I know I cannot do that, but please hear me say your name in your imaginations, in your inner ears! For the last 30 years, I have had the privilege of collaborating with a world class musician, a lover of Jewish music and of our heritage, David Gooding. My song of Thanksgiving in the realm of music includes every member of our Chorale who gave countless hours of time and of hard work in a pure gift of joy and of delight to this congregation. I have loved every minute spent with our Jr. Choir. None of which could have happened without Lynn Kleinman, my partner-in-crime and co-conspirator. I give thanks to Wendy Deuring who, as our Music Librarian, gives new meaning to the concepts of generosity and devotion. I give thanks to another Wendy - Wendy Jacobson who is indefatigable in the pursuit of goodness and righteousness and has made me a better human being. As I have reflected on the inhabitants of my Mattanah over the years, I realize that my colleagues and co-workers have fallen into basically two categories: those who were adults when I arrived and those who have grown up in the last 40 years. Contrary to the perception of some, I was not here during Rabbi Brickner’s time! When I arrived, Rabbi Arthur Lelyveld was the senior rabbi and he opened the door to my tenure.
I sang a new song of praise and of thanksgiving on the day that Iris Greene walked into this building, and for 24 years I had the good fortune and the blessing of her partnership. At Fairmount Temple, I am surrounded by a realm of “unsung heroes” - each and every person who works at Fairmount Temple is a blessing to me, a blessing to this congregation. The very first people I met from this congregation, 43 years ago, were Max (z’l) and Jane Friedman, followed soon after by our beloved Will and Jan Sukenik who have been divine gifts of blessing to this congregation – and to me. I have worked with extraordinary and inspiring lay people over the years. Todd Silverman, an exceedingly worthy inheritor and continuator of the mantle of this congregation’s leadership, is the first president at whose Bar Mitzvah I officiated. I did not officiate at the Bar Mitzvah of Josh Caruso, but did officiate at the Bat Mitzvah of his wife, Leah, and rejoiced when she returned to Cleveland with her husband and my new colleague. I have learned from Josh, from his vision of a just and righteous community, from his personal commitment to ritual practice, and from his always creative approach to the text. I consider myself most fortunate to share in sacred partnership with him and with that other Bar Mitzvah boy – the one from Michigan, whose wife, Joanie Berger, also grew up in Cleveland! There is no question that this gala event would not be happening without the foresight, strategic planning and mindfulness of our Rabbi Rob Nosanchuk. His thoughtfulness, planfulness, creativity, and leadership are in in evidence as they are, in similar fashion, in the ongoing health, strength, and vitality of our congregation. I am grateful for my newest, and already cherished colleagues, Cantor Vladimir Lapin and Rabbi Elle Mulbaum. He is a person of consummate meschlichkeit and musicianship who has endeared himself to me and to this congregation. She is a devoted, creative, and loving rabbi and educator who is inspiring our youth in their love of Judaism. I have joyfully worked, shared, and collaborated with every treasured member of our congregation and our staff. I thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for every blessing of the last 42 years. With love and heartfelt appreciation, Cantor Laureate Sarah J. Sager
+ 40 Years SUNDAY, JUNE 12, 2022 LANDERHAVEN
CELEBRATING CANTOR LAUREATE
SARAH J. SAGER WELCOME
Todd Silverman, President A TOAST TO SARAH
Rabbi Jennifer Hartman and Jonathan Gertman MOTZI BLESSING
Cantor Gail Hirschenfang CANTOR SAGER TRIBUTE VIDEO
Introduced by Rabbi Elle Muhlbaum RABBI ANDREA WEISS, Ph.D.
Introduced by Rabbi Joshua Caruso LIVE AUCTION
SURPRISE! FUNDING THE SARAH J. SAGER CANTORIAL CHAIR
Rabbi Robert A. Nosanchuk CANTOR LAUREATE SARAH J. SAGER CLOSING REMARKS
Tom Abelson
LIVE AUCTION PACKAGES
+ 40 Years
1. CONDO-ONE WEEK STAY: Enjoy this 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo right on the Gulf of Mexico coast in the Veranda Beach Club in the heart of Longboat Key, Florida. Pool, beach. Complimentary use of sailboats and bicycles. April 8-15, 2023. Donated by Eileen Sill. Value: $4200 2. DINNER BY ZACK BRUELL: Zack Bruell will provide a meal for eight people plus Sarah. The meal will be a 5-6 course culinary feast, paired with wines. The event will be held at L’Albatros or Parallax on a Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or possible Sunday. The date and time will be determined by the winner and Chef Bruell. 3. DINNER BY DOUG KATZ: Tasting at Amba or Zhug for seven guests, plus Sarah (not on Friday or Saturday). Mediterranean-inspired shareable plates, curated by Chef Doug Katz and Chef Yurany Echeverry. Three selections per person, two beverages per person (includes alcohol). Tax and gratuity are not included. Dinner will be coordinated for a specific day at 6:00 p.m. Value: $500 4. ENTERTAINMENT PACKAGE #1 Four Guardians club tickets: Tuesday, August 2, 2022; Guardians v. Arizona; club seats, Section 348, Row H, Seats 5, 6, 7, 8. Food and parking included. Value: $100 per ticket. Donated by Bonnie and Steve Spiegle. Four Guardians tickets: Section 159 Row F, which is the first row behind the third-base dugout. Mutually agreed upon date in 2022 season. Value: $400 Donated by Shari and Michael Perlmuter. Two Browns tickets: Section 132A, Row 25, Seats 1 & 2. Mutually agreed upon date. Value: $200 ticket. Donated by Julie and David Soble Two Cavs tickets: Club seats on a mutually agreed upon date for 2022-2023 season. The schedule does not come out in August. Value: $255 per ticket. Donated by Brenda and Bob Weltman. Two Playhouse Square tickets to CATS in November 2022. Orchestra seats. Value: $100 per ticket. Donated by Shani and Scott Spiegle. Four Box Seats Cleveland Orchestra Concert at Severance Music Center: Box 3, Seats A-D on a Saturday night. Mutually agreed upon date. Value: $600. Donated by Richard Bogomolny and Pattie Kozerefski.
5. ENTERTAINMENT PACKAGE #2
+ 40 Years
Four Guardians club tickets: Saturday, September 17, 2022, Guardians vs. Minnesota; Club seats, Section 348, Row H, Seats 5, 6, 7, 8. Food and parking included. Value: $100 per ticket. Donated by Bonnie and Steve Spiegle. Two Guardians tickets: Sunday, July 17 home game against Detroit. First row behind home plate. Includes parking and food and beverage discounts. Donated by Jon and Cindy Rogen. Two Browns Tickets: Section 132A, Row 25, Seats 1,2,3,4. Mutually agreed upon date. Value: $200 ticket. Donated by Julie and David Soble. Two Cavs tickets: Club seats. Mutually agreed upon date for 2022-2023 season. The schedule comes out in August. Value: $255 per ticket.Donated by Brenda and Bob Weltman. Four First Row tickets for Cleveland Monsters: includes access to Chairman’s Lounge for pre-game buffet, all-inclusive beer/wine, break snacks, and dessert. Donated by McCarthy, Lebit, Crystal & Liffman Co., LPA Three Playhouse Square tickets to CATS in November 2022. Orchestra seats, one on aisle. Value $100 per ticket. Donated by Bonnie and Steve Spiegle. Two Playhouse Square tickets to Les Miserables in October 2022. Orchestra seats. Value $100 per ticket. Donated by Shani and Scott Spiegle. Two Cleveland Orchestra tickets in the front row of the center of the dress circle on a mutually agreed upon concert. Donated by Abby and Tom Abelson. 6. YEAR-ROUND PERSONAL PARKING SPOT AT FAIRMOUNT TEMPLE
Each of the 6 auction packages will include a bottle of wine donated by Marc Bona, features writer for cleveland.com.
Special thanks to our Tribute Book Sponsors: Bonnie and Steve Spiegle, Jan and Will Sukenik, and the Women of Fairmount Temple
HOST AND PLANNING* COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS
HONORARY CHAIRS
Sylvia & Jeff Aarons Nancy Adams Harriet Adelstein Laurie & Steve Aronoff Sandy & Dr. Charles Babbush Linda Barnett Ronna Kaplan & David Biegel Claire Biel Amy & Scott Bilsky Marilyn & Jeff Bilsky Zeda Blau Donna & Steve Borstein* Beth & Bob Brandon Helen Braun Tamar & Peter Brosse Cindy & Bob Bruml Leah & Rabbi Joshua Caruso Judy Collen (z’l) Mindy & Martin Davidson Andrea & Chad Deal Wendy Deuring Eileen & Irwin Dinn Gloria Fine Ellen & Marty Fishman Bonnie & Larry Frankel Rod Thompson & Jonathan Freilich Marc Freimuth Jane Friedman Madeline Friedman Ruth & Jim Friedman Lois Gaynor Toni & Alan Gendler Cynthia Tancer & Louis Giesler Kathy & Dan Gisser Iris Greene Cindy & Jim Glazer Lynn & Al Glickson Carol Rivchun & Marlene Goldheimer Roz & Joe Grossner Leslie Carno-Harf & Steven Harf Phyllis Henry Janice & Arnold Hirshon Patty Inglis Audee & Bruce Ison Lois Jacobson Carey & Richard Joseph Deanna Katz
Lisa Arnson & Paul Katz Debbie Leizman & Keith Kerman Marlene Klanfer Lynn & Michael Kleinman Marge & Lee Koosed Sandra & Ivan Kramer Michele Krantz Karen & Norman Kreinberg Laura & Scott Kuntz* Carole & Burt Laderman Rita & Bruce Langer Ellen & Jeff Leavitt Dr. Albert Leizman Judy & Mort Levin Jennifer & James Levine Gail & Ken Liffman Susie & David Mandel Martin Marcus Shelley & Greg Marcus Claudia & Peter Marmaros Wendy & Steven Marsh Linda Melsher Laurenda & Jon Messer Elaine & Beno Michel Trina Miller Marguerite & Allan (z’l) Morris Cantor Vladimir Lapin & Rabbi Elle Muhlbaum Amy & Larrie Nadler Susan Namen Joanie Berger & Rabbi Robert Nosanchuk Iris November Sheilah Orkin Edith Paller Merle Passell Paula & Michael Penzner Shari & Michael Perlmuter Linda Sandhaus & Roland Philip Diane Phillips-Leatherberry Sally & Barry Pollock Cecelia Polster Cindy & Scott Polster Esther & Lester Potash Julie & Peter Raskind Sylvia & Bob Reitman Mindy & Jay Resnick Susan & Mark Ringel Paula & Michael Rollins Sharon & Clark Rose
Abby & Tom Abelson Cyndy & Mark Fellenbaum Bonnie & Steve Spiegle
Dick Bogomolny & Pattie Kozerefski Jan & Will Sukenik Penni & Steve Weinberg Evie & Gordon Safran Judy & Rick Schiller Harriet Schilling Linda & Steve Schlein Shelley & Mark Schloss Barbara Schreibman Stefanie & Chad Schreibman Jill & David Schreibman Ilene & Allan Schwartz Paula & Walter Schwartz Susan & Bob Shapiro Sanford Shore Eileen Sill Marcy & Eric Silver Sandy & Terry Silver Stephanie & Todd Silverman* Loramae & Ronald Simkoff Judith Stern Waxman & Stuart Simms Marcia Wexberg & Ken Singer Vivian & David Singer Barbara & Howard Smith Leah Ratner & Paul Sobel Julie & David Soble Nancy Glick & Randall Solomon Jamie Spiegle Shani & Scott Spiegle Marsha & Jim Spitz Esther & Jerry Spott* Michelle Stern Suanne Stern Myra & Rick Stone Marianne & Stanley Tepper Dana & Bill Trau Harriet “Butchie” Udelson Amy Wain* Shea & Rich Waldron Ann Warren Diane & Alan Weiner Gail & Ed Weintraub Debbie & Phil Weiss Sally & Stanley Wertheim Rhonda & Roger Wolfson Sheila Wyse Andria & Darrell Young Diane & Brian Young Joyce & Bob Young Enid & Dan Yurman
Thank you to our sponsors CANTOR’S CIRCLE
VIPS
Abby & Tom Abelson Pattie Kozerefski & Richard Bogomolny Judy Collen, of blessed memory Andrea & Chad Deal Wendy Deuring Irving & Gloria Fine Foundation Judy & Mort Levin Marcus, Sill, Perlmuter, Cohen Families Polster/Tepper Families Evie & Gordon Safran Bonnie & Steve Spiegle Jan & Will Sukenik Penni & Stephen Weinberg Gail & Ed Weintraub Debbie & Phil Weiss
Linda Barnett Family Helen Braun Bonnie & Larry Frankel Iris Greene Michael & Lynn Kleinman Michele Krantz Gail & Ken Liffman Julie & Peter Raskind Sylvia & Bob Reitman Barbara Schreibman Shea & Rich Waldron Diane & Brian Young Andria & Darrell Young
PATRONS Sylvia & Jeffrey Aarons Dr. Charles & Sandra Babbush Nancy & Russell Benghiat Terri & Archie Berk Jodi & Tom Bonda Peter & Tamar Brosse Nancy Silverman & George Cohn Barry Cramer Cee Cee & William Dorsky Mark & Cyndy Fellenbaum Ellen & Marty Fishman Mady Friedman Toni & Alan Gendler Sheldon & Nan Gisser Al & Lynn Glickson Steven & Susan Goldberg Michael & Barbara Greenberg Roz & Joe Grossner James & Barbara Heller Alice Jacobs Lynn & Bob Jacobs Alice Armstrong & Bruce Jacobson Debby & Brian Kastner Nancy Schwartz Katz & Jordan Katz Robin Lieberman & Louis Kelsch Shirley & Morton Klein Elayne & Ron Kluchin
Sandra & Ivan Kramer Joey Laidman Fran Lasky Diane & Arthur Lavin Arthur Kaplansky & Joann Millman Linda & Bruce Mittleman Amy & Marc Morgenstern Amy & Larrie Nadler Iris Hollander November Joanie Berger & Rabbi Rob Nosanchuk Dr. Lydia Parker and Family Linda Sandhouse & Roland Philip Esther & Lester Potash Nancy Mesnick & Jerry Savransky Judy & Rick Schiller Paula & Walter Schwartz Sherry & Bart Simon Leah Ratner & Paul Sobel Julie & David Soble Shani & Scott Spiegle Marsha & Jim Spitz Myra & Rick Stone Marianne & Stanley Tepper Andrew Goldberg & Robert Villarreal Barbara & Mel Vogel Donald Sayre & Nancy Wurzel
TO OUR FAVORITE
CAPTAIN!
Congratulations Sarah! Irving and Gloria Fine Foundation and Family
Dear Sarah, You have been an integral part of our lives for over four decades, filling us with joy and enchanting melodies for holiday celebrations and family milestones, offering us comfort and compassion when we mourned loss, and providing us with love and the warmest of smiles always. Thank you for all you have given to us and to the community. You are a treasure. With love and gratitude, Mitchell, Yitah, Andrea, David and Jill Katz and our Families
CONGRATULATIONS CANTOR SAGER! You have been a comfort and support to our family and for many other families in celebration and in mourning for four decades. You bring your professionalism and unparalleled understanding to each and every occasion. Thank you for your years of service and friendship. We wish you all the best, The Victor and Ellen Cohn Family
Intelligence…Grace…Dignity Your preparation, which has always been well thought out and sincere, completely captured the joy or sadness and significance of our families’ life-cycle events with exactly the right touch of solemnity and good humor, where appropriate. Over the years, you made a solid effort to really get to know the members of our vast Congregation so that when needed, your remarks sounded so very personal and sincere, because they were. Our whole extended family benefited because of your deep and enduring friendship with our mother, Hilda Bogomolny Faigin, that began as soon as you arrived at Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple. You were both heavily invested in development of women as leaders in both the Jewish and general community. In many ways, that friendship remained in your heart even after my mother’s death in October of 1994, 28 years ago. Through all your 40-plus years, with your personal needs always set aside to help others, you must be recognized for the many times you stepped up to literally “save” the institution known as Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple. There is no way to repay that kind of leadership. All we can do is to appropriately recognize it and say “thank you.” Dick Bogomolny & Pattie Kozerefski
Our family, along with the Congregation of Fairmount Temple, has been blessed for 42 years with your Sound of Music Spiritual Inspiration Beautiful Smile Acts of Kindness and Gracious Presence.
Kol Hakavod, Marty Marcus
Eileen Sill
Greg & Shelley Marcus
Shari & Michael Perlmuter
Lynne & Phil Cohen
Scott Sill
Our Dear Sarah, For over 40 years, you have been the soul of our congregation and truly exemplify the People of Loving Kindness. You have shared our family’s many joys as well as our sorrows. May your future continue to light up our lives. MAZEL TOV ON THIS MEMORABLE EVENING. Gail & Ed Weintraub Aly & David Jaffe Callyn & Michael Baum Pam & Andrew Schwartz
Dear Sarah, We remember the first time we heard you sing. We remember the first time we met. We remember a growing friendship that continues to this day. We remember our first pregnancies overlapping for five months. We remember our vacations together beginning in 1983. We remember sharing many wonderful events both large and small together. We remember sharing some profoundly difficult times together. We remember nurturing our synagogue together. You have been the rock of ages for ACFT.
We remember. We treasure. We respect. We thank God. We love you, Sarah. Tom and Abby Abelson
Mazel Tov Sarah on your 42 Years at Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple Words could never express how thankful we are to have you in our lives. You’ve truly been there for all of our lifecycle events. From Baby Namings To Consecration To Bar and Bat Mitzvah To Confirmation To High School Graduation To Weddings and Funerals You have been there for us through the best of times as well as the most difficult times. Most importantly you are a wonderful friend to us. Love, Gordon and Evie Safran Mindy and Martin Davidson Jess Davidson Ashleigh and Michael Davidson
Proud Supporters of the
Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple
THANK YOU! Cantor Laureate
Sarah J. Sager For 42 years as Fairmount Temple’s Beloved Musical, Spiritual and Ritual Leader
1111 Superior Avenue East, Suite 2700 • Cleveland, Ohio 44114 www.mccarthylebit.com • 216-696-1422
DEAR SARAH, YOUR LEADERSHIP, JOYFUL SINGING, TEACHING, SCHOLARSHIP AND LOVE OF JUDAISM HAS INSPIRED AND SUSTAINED OUR CONGREGATION AND FAMILY. YOU HAVE BEEN PRESENT AND SUPPORTIVE FOR BRUML FAMILY LIFE CYCLE AND MILESTONE EVENTS AND WE SO APPRECIATE YOUR DEDICATED FRIENDSHIP. WITH LOVE AND BEST WISHES FOR GOOD HEALTH, JOY AND SATISFACTION AS CANTOR LAUREATE! CINDY, BOB, ANDREW, ELIZABETH, MADELEINE AND PHILLIP
Sarah
You have been there for us for over two generations of weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, births and funerals. We are happy to be a part of this tribute that you so richly deserve. Thank you for your 40+ years of service to the congregation and our family.
Congratulations! The Polster/Tepper family
Dear Sarah, You have been there for our family for four generations of milestones with your beauty, grace, keen intellect, and magnificent voice. Your voice has resonated not only in your music, but also in the many compelling sermons and moving eulogies you have delivered. Your impact on our family, Fairmount Temple, and the greater local and national Jewish communities has been immeasurable. We are forever grateful---more than words can express.
With Love, The Levin Family Judy, Mort, Jared, Lora, Isabel and Peter, Alissa and Max
WITH MUCH GRATITUDE
from the Fairmount Temple Choir to Cantor Laureate Sarah Sager for SO many years of truly beautiful, inspiring, challenging music, including: Aleinu (The Great) by Weisser
Kol Nidre by Henry Russotto
Ana Adonai I and II by David Gooding
L’Chi Lach by Debbie Friedman
Areshet by Max Helfman
May the Words by A. W. Binder
Ashreynu – Sh’ma Yisrael by William Sharlin
Meditation by Marshall A. Portnoy
Avinu Malkeinu by Max Janowski
Or Zarua by S. G. Braslavsky
Bayom Hahu by Isaacson
Oseh Shalom by Shlomo Carlebach
Eili Eili by David Zahavi
Ozi by Shefa Gold
Esa Enai by H. Schalit
R’tzei by Stephen Richards
Enosh by Louis Lewandowski
Sim Shalom by Max Janowski
Etz Chayim and Hashivenu by
Shiviti Adonai by Louis Lewandowski / Adler
David Gooding Hallelujah (Psalm 150) by Louis Lewandowski
Song of the Jewish Partisans by Julius Chajes The Twenty Third Psalm by Heinrich Schalit Uv’chein Tsadikim by John Crowe
Hashivenu by Binder
Yih’yu l’Ratzon Imrei Fi by Ernest Bloch
Kadosh Ata by Z Zilberts
Zochreinu by E Jospe
Ki Anu Amecha as arranged
Final Amen
Feinsinger
But sadly, not yet, the iconic “I Love to Sing in the Bathtub” by Bill Ross. And yes, I certify that there is a copy of this in our most excellent music library. Still pristine. Respectfully submitted by Wendy Deuring, Music Librarian
Words from your heart have entered our hearts. - Stephanie, Todd, Zach, Ethan and Laine Silverman
Sarah, Congratulations and Mazel Tov on a spectacular career. Your music and sustained leadership has been and continues to be so very much appreciated. We love you, Penni and Steve Weinberg
Sarah You have our love, appreciation & gratitude. The Cole Family
Jeffrey & Trisha Cole
Steve & Sunny Cole
Joseph E. Cole II & Kristen Cole
Allison Cole & Brad Keare Jason & Melissa Cole
We congratulate congratulate Cantor We Laureate Sarah J. Sager Cantor Laureate J. Sager on her 42 years ofSarah service to the on her Fairmount 42 years ofTemple. service to the Fairmount Temple. You have made everlasting You have made everlasting of connections with generations We congratulate connections with generations of families, and we celebrate your Cantor Laureate Sarah J. Sager families, and we celebrate your on her 42achievements. years of service to the achievements. Fairmount Temple. Best wishes, Best wishes, David Becky Heller You haveand made everlasting David and Becky Heller connections with generations of families, and we celebrate your achievements. Best wishes, David and Becky Heller NRPGroup.com I 844.NRP.0002 NRPGroup.com I 844.NRP.0002
“Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart.” -Psalm 97:11 We thank you for shining light, gladness, hope and your righteous example for 42 years.
Thank you Cantor Laureate Sager! We are proud to help establish the Sarah J. Sager Cantorial Chair at Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple! With love and admiration, Rabbi Robert Nosanchuk & Joanie Berger Rabbi Josh & Leah Caruso Rabbi Elle Muhlbaum & Cantor Vladimir Lapin Steve & Donna Borstein
In honor of Cantor Laureate Sarah Sager with whom I had the privilege to work beside and learn from for over 24 years. With all my love and respect, Iris Greene
Sarah has been a presence at almost every lifecycle event of our family for 40+ years. She has celebrated, comforted, and loved us all. Sarah has been the glue that has held Anshe Chesed together and we are grateful for her. With Love, Linda, Ron, z’l, Dan, Collen, Nick and Sammi Barnett Debbi, Jeff, Matt and Adam Rosenthal
On behalf of the Sulzer Family, of which we are many, this is a wonderful way to express our appreciation. Our Cantor Sarah has been there in ways too numerous to mention. Through many life cycle events, she has been there for us. Her concern, her devotion, her loving heart has helped sustain us as a family. When we first met, she lived a few doors from our childhood home. From then on, she became a member of our extended family. On a more personal note, I am proud to call her my friend. I Love you Sarah, Joan Sulzer Werhane
ALS-22-0017 Cantor Sager ad_4.75x3.75.indd 1
4/19/22 11:53 AM
Mazel Tov, Cantor Sager Our Heartfelt Appreciation for the Years of Genuine Caring, Compassion and Warmth. You’ve Brought Into Our Families’ Lives. Lisa, Bill, Adam & Julia Schonberg Lynn Schonberg, Keith Weiner & Joel Weiner
THANK YOU For All The Memories, Jim & Ruth Friedman
You have been a major part of our lives for over 40 years; in celebrations and trying times and through stressful periods. You light up a room with your calmness, intellect and energy. We share late night texts and bowls of fruit with you as part of our extended family. With love, Lynn and Michael Kleinman and Family
Sarah, Thank you for your years of music, teaching and caring. You have enriched all of our lives. Bonnie & Larry Frankel and Family
A well-deserved Mazel Tov to you today.
May your journeys be terrific in every way. Sandi & Burt Zucker Lisa & Brad Zucker Wendy & Danny Spitz Betsy & Brent Silver and Families
To honor 40-plus years of friendship, teaching, and song. The Philip Family Roland, Linda, Joseph, Sarah, and Claire, of blessed memory
Dear Sarah, Always wishing you everything good. YOU’RE THE BEST! Hoping we can travel again soon. With much love and respect, Helen Braun
In tribute to our esteemed pioneering cantorial alumna
CANTOR SARAH J. SAGER ‘78 Devoted member of our Board of Governors Consecrated leader for over 40 years of her kehillah kedoshah Visionary scholar who launched The Torah: A Women’s Commentary Passionate advocate for women’s voices as interpreters of our tradition Inspiring spiritual guide and teacher across the generations A true woman of valor of Reform Judaism Andrew Rehfeld, Ph.D President
Sue Neuman Hochberg Chair Board of Governors
David Edelson Chair-Elect Board of Governors
CONGRATULATIONS
for your amazing 40+ year career at Fairmount Temple and
MANY THANKS
for your enormous contributions to our congregation. With our best wishes always, Elaine & Beno Michel
We celebrate our dear friend for her extraordinary career. Mazel Tov, dear Sarah! Rabbi Amy and Gary Perlin
Sarah, Thank you for your wise teaching, your compassionate care, and your steady presence. Neil & Wendy Jacobson
Mazel Tov!
Shani & Scott Spiegle
MAZEL TOV SARAH!! Thank you for being such an important part of our lives, celebrating with us for all the good times and being there with us for difficult times. Thank you also for all you have contributed to Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple for over 40 years. Your legacy continues on in our lives as well as the continuing history of your beloved Fairmount Temple. With love, Dede & Brian Young, Ian and Adam Andria & Darrell Young, Spencer and Jordan
Dear Cantor Sager, Thank you! From the bottom of our hearts, we would like to thank you for sharing your amazing self with us for all these years. We are so grateful for you and want you to know what a difference you have made in the lives of so many teens in this congregation for the past 40+ years. We love you and we appreciate you! Love Always, ACTY (Anshe Chesed Temple Youth)
42 You have been a trailblazer in much the same manner as Jackie Robinson (a famous 42) When the Jews left Egypt, they camped in 42 places. We have proudly watched you guide Fairmount Temple and the community during many twists and turns and over many hurdles during your unprecedented 42-year tenure. May you continue to go from strength to strength as you transition to a new role at Fairmount and may your voice always hit the high notes of life for all of us. The Freimuths, Sagers, Sudows, Willchers, Wrights And in memory of Joy and Richard Sager
We have been blessed by your gifts. Their impact radiates far beyond the walls of our congregation. Mazel Tov and Thank you. Paula & Michael Penzner Abby & David Goldstein
Cantor Sager, Thank you for your dedicated and devoted service. Men of Fairmount Temple
It is an honor to work with you and to know you all these years. You are a dedicated, compassionate and caring individual and a true professional. The Bookatz-Berkowitz-Kumin Families
Dear Sarah, Congratulations on your 40+ years at Fairmount Temple and thank you for everything you do. Rich, Shea, Jonathan and Alex Waldron
Sarah, Thank you for your lifelong service to and support of our congregation. You have taught us, prayed and sung with us, celebrated our joys, and comforted our sorrows. We are incredibly grateful for your dedication to our community. With deepest appreciation, Julie & Peter Raskind and Family
CUYAHOGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE (TRI-C®) CUYAHOGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE (TRI-C®)
APPLAUDS CONGRATULATES APPLAUDS CONGRATULATES CANTOR LAUREATE ROTHSCHILD
DEBBIE JUDITH DEBBIE JUDITH SHAMIR SARAH SAGER ROTHSCHILD CUYAHOGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE (TRI-C®) CUYAHOGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE (TRI-C®)
SHAMIR
AND NA’AMAT USA, CLEVELAND COUNCIL
OF ANSHE CHESED FAIRMOUNT TEMPLE
AND NA’AMAT USA, CLEVELAND COUNCIL
CONGRATULATIONS on receiving the CONGRATULATIONS CONGRATULATIONS Golda Meir Award. on receiving the CONGRATULATIONS ON 42 YEARS! Golda Meir Award. on receiving the CONGRATULATIONS Golda Meir Award. on receiving the Golda Meir Award.
tri-c.edu 216-987-6000 tri-c.edu tri-c.edu 216-987-6000 216-987-6000 tri-c.edu
19-0418
216-987-6000
19-0418 19-0418
19-0418
We Nurture Love, Justice, Hope, Joy, Connection & Growth
23737 Fairmount Boulevard Beachwood, Ohio 44122 216.464.1330 fairmounttemple.org
Mazel Tov to a Wonderful Cantor, Educator and Leader! Sue, of blessed memory, & Leonard Bernstein and Family
Mazel Tov!
Thank you for being involved with every lifecycle event for our family for the last 42 years! Every milestone we have celebrated has been special and meaningful because you were with us. Lots of Love, Aly, David, Anna and Ethan Jaffe
Dear Sarah – To our Friend, our Inspiration, our Teacher! Marcia Wexberg & Ken Singer
We are grateful for your years of commitment to Fairmount Temple. Your brilliance, compassion, and empathy inspire us. You have guided our family through moments of sadness and joy. It’s our honor to be here tonight to celebrate you. Thank you for being such a blessing in our lives. Linda & Steve Schlein, Rabbi Stacy Schlein & Jeremy Sosin, Laurie Schlein & Tim Sokal
Dear Sarah For over 40 years, you have greatly enriched our lives. You have been Fairmount Temple’s outstanding musical and spiritual leader as well as a treasured friend. We love and admire you. Marguerite and Allan, z’l, Morris
Lyrics, laughter and love! Our family salutes you. Diane Collier and Bob Gura Children and Grandchildren
Mazel Tov! With love from Rabbi David Komerofsky and Ronit Sherwin and Family
A middle school assignment (35 years ago) was to write an essay about someone we felt was worthy and impressive enough to be Time Magazine’s Person of the Year. As one of the world’s first female cantors and the first in Cleveland, Cantor Sarah Sager was the perfect selection. Thank you, Sarah, for making that an easy assignment for me!
Jamie Spiegle
Dear Sarah,
Love and thanks for over 40 years of inspiring, teaching and comforting. We will forever cherish the music, memories and milestones.
Michelle, Todd, Jen, Adam and Shari Stern In appreciation to Cantor Sarah Sager for her dedication and loyalty to Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple and to our families. Yasher Koach, Edith Paller and Joey “Gingy” Weingarten
Dear Cantor Sager, It has been a great honor and privilege to know you, learn from you, and heal with your comforting words. You will always be so special to us. Fondly, Susie and David Mandel
Outstanding colleague, inspiring leader, insightful teacher – who truly lives by the best of Jewish values. In gratitude and with deep respect and love, Rabbi Lee & Judy Bycel
Mazel Tov, Sarah! Sending much love, Sally Good and Family
Sarah, May your continued adventures be as rewarding and outstanding as your life as our Cantor! Sally and Stanley Wertheim
Congratulations Sarah on your lifelong career and dedication. Special thanks for your inspiring leadership in Eastern Europe.
MAZEL TOV, CANTOR LAUREATE SARAH J. SAGER
Thank you for your service to Cleveland’s Jewish community for 42 years as Fairmount Temple’s wonderful musical, spiritual, and ritual leader.
Zeda Blau Ann Freimuth Fern Weiss Sheila Wyse
The Kleinman-Carroll family celebrates you, Cantor Sager, for guiding and supporting our family and so many others for over four decades! Love, Laura, Matt, Harry, and Joe
Jewish Heritage… Jewish Traditions… Jewish-owned and Operated (216) 340-1400 ClevelandJewishFunerals.com
Sarah, We will always hold dear to our hearts your beautiful music, kindness, knowledge, and passion. Thank you for 42 years of love and compassion. Love, Karen & Norman Kreinberg, Paula & Mike Rollins, and Donna Fox
Mazel Tov
Thank you, Sarah… for EVERYTHING you have done for us!
Carol Rivchun & Marlene Goldheimer
Julie / Steve Manning and Marcy / Eric Silver
Cantor Sager!!
THANKS FOR ALL THE MEMORIES Alan, Louise and Jennifer Grossman David, Jennifer, Benji and Owen Grossman
We are so blessed to have you as our Cantor and friend.
With thanks for your voice, your heart, and your caring ways throughout all our families’ lifecycle events. Mazel Tov on the gifts you have given to us and to our temple. Audee & Bruce Ison
Sarah, Thanks for all your help!
Phyllis Berlas and Family
Richard Cohen and Sharon Cohen (of blessed memory)
Mazel Tov, Sarah!
Sarah, you are the best! Our family loves and honors you!
The Hackers Ellen, Steve, Lisa & Lori
Harriet (Butchie) Udelson and Family
Sarah – Wishing you the best of everything life has to offer. Lois Jacobson
Sam & Amy Foti and Family
Sarah, thank you for being our mentor and friend,
Sarah… You are inspiring, uplifting, extraordinary! Wishing you the best, always!
Ronald & Loramae Simkoff
With gratitude and love, Claudia & Pete Marmaros
Thank you for your tireless dedication, the differences you make, and the love you have shown all. With Love, Elayne & Ron Kluchin
Very Best Wishes to our Beloved Sarah! The Messer Family
MAZEL TOV and THANK YOU for all you do!
Sarah - 42 years - Mazel Tov! Thank you for being with us for the many Schoenfeld and Fox lifecycle events! Much happiness and good health! Joel & Ronna Fox
Can’t believe it’s been 40 years since we met. You are a comforter, supporter, coach, fellow worrier, and a loving friend. Whenever you sang the Mi Shebeirach to my loved ones, we were better. And we laughed together in the good times. Nothing changes now— and, you’ll have time to write your book! Hugs and love, Iris November and Anita, Rachel, Lisa, Celia & Charlie
We Love You, Sarah!! Barbara & Howard Smith and Family
Cantor Sager’s music was the primary reason we joined Fairmount Temple. – Diane Phillips-Leatherberry For the trails she blazed, the wisdom she shares, and the support she provides, with appreciation. – Wendy Leatherberry & Dr. Carl Horowitz
From playgroup to milestone events, thank you for being a part of our lives!
We treasure all the special times you have shared with us.
Love, THE MARSH FAMILY
Love, Sally & Barry Pollock and Family
Dear Sarah,
We wish you happiness always.
Mazel Tov Cantor Sager Your Friends at
For a free 6-week trial subscription to CJN, visit cjn.org/subscribe A K R O N
COLUMBUS
Follow CJN everywhere!
Cleveland Jewish News
@CleveJN
@CleveJN
Cleveland Jewish Publication Company
SARAH You have created so many wonderful memories with us over 42 years — a lifetime! Worshiping together on hundreds of Shabbat mornings, singing together in Volunteer Choir/Chorale, teaching our children and grandchildren, being our “guest expert” in Family Education, performing at Band Together, studying Torah with us ... the list goes on and on. Your beautiful voice has carried us, laughing and crying, through High Holy Days, b’nai mi vah, weddings, and shiva. We will be eternally grateful for your generosity with your talents and your praise, for your skills and your high standards, and especially for your friendship. Mazal tov with love, David and Vivian Singer and all of our children and grandchildren
SARAH SAGER A 42-year Summary of a SINGular Sensation Substance and Stability of our Synagogue Superb Singer of Scales and Sacred Songs Sage of the Sabbath Service Serenader of Psalms in Sanctuary Scintillating Speaker and Spokesperson Superhuman Scribe and Speechwriter Sovereign of Success and Service Stronghold of Judaism and Feminism Symphony of Stoicism and Strength Scholar of Women’s Spirituality Spirited and Globe-trotting Septuagenarian Supermom and Savta And the Symbol of Selflessness, Sweetness, Sanity, Sensibility and Sensitivity Sentimentally and Sincerely, Bonnie and Steve Spiegle
It to worship, ItIthas has been an honor honor to to worship, worship, has been been an celebrate with you for celebrate and work work with with you youfor for celebrate and these 40+ years. years. these past 40+ years. these past We to have have you as We are are privileged privileged to We are privileged have you youas as our our friend! our Cantor Cantor and our Cantor and as as our our friend! friend! THANK SARAH!! THANK YOU, THANK YOU, SARAH!! SARAH!! Jan & & Will Will Sukenik Jan Sukenik Jan Sukenik