The Pythians are again collecting coats for needy children and older adults.
In the past few years, New Jersey Pythians have collected almost 10,000 coats.
"This is a crucial time of year because of the cold weather and the illnesses which spread, particularly among children and older adults," said Allen S. Kornfeld, past grand chancellor. "Therefore, we need to provide those in need — adults, too — with outer garments to keep them warm and illness-free."
To donate a coat in good condition, call Larry Kalb at (732) 920-7503.
The Knights of Pythias is a nonsectarian fraternal organization.
Among the new officers is David N. Bellask of Lakewood, who accepted the grand chancellorship, and Henry Kazin of Toms River, who became the grand vice chancellor. Joseph Spindel, formerly of Marlboro and now of West Windsor, moved up to grand inner guard.
Pythians serving as deputy grand chancellors include Leon Ben-Ezra of Freehold Township. A member of Battleground Centennial Lodge No. 100, Ben-Ezra also received the United Nations International Year of the Volunteer Award. He also accepted, on behalf of his lodge, the Traveling Pythian Torch of Excellence from outgoing Grand Chancellor Saul Rochman.
For more information on the organization, call Kalb or the Grand Lodge Office at (201) 437-7339.
Music discussions are open to the public
The Cecilian Music Club held its monthly music meeting Nov. 17 at Alan Wasserman’s home in Freehold. Wasserman is one of the club’s performing artists and, along with performer and teacher Barbara Lerro, he conducted the discussion of Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1. After a brief discussion of Tchaikovsky’s life, the group listened to two recordings of the concert.
These discussions will be held monthly and are open to the public, regardless of musical background. Each month a different topic will be selected, and input will be accepted from all present. The next meeting will be held Jan. 11 at 1 p.m. in Freehold
Anyone interested in attending the next session may call Wasserman at (732) 303-0060. For details on other club events or to become a member, call Helen Bungert (732) 905-1761 or e-mail [email protected].