Rita and Alex Fischer z”l Memorial Tribute
We’re thrilled to announce the Rita and Alex Fischer z”l Memorial Tribute to support Social Justice and Music at CBST.
Photo from CBST’s 40th Anniversary Book: Changing Lives, Making History, p. 205: Michael Lehrman, Jay Fischer, and Rita and Alex Fischer z”l at their combined brit ahavah and 50th anniversary celebration at CBST, June 1993.
Rita and Alex were dedicated CBST members who loved and generously helped build the CBST community. The parents of Jay Fischer and parents-in-law of Jay’s husband Michael Lehrman, they first came to CBST in 1984, shortly after Jay and Michael met at CBST. They attended Friday Night Shabbat services regularly, and Rita continued to attend after Alex passed away in 1996. They were significant contributors to CBST, including to the Open Door Campaign and the High Holiday Appeal.
Rita and Alex were very dedicated supporters of HIV/AIDS causes. Before every AIDS Walk, Rita addressed the congregation, encouraging members to contribute and participate. Many CBST community members have warm memories of Rita’s persistence in recruiting walkers and donors. Rita’s Team joined the AIDS Walk every year, and she took deep pride in being the highest individual fundraiser over her lifetime, outpacing even several corporate donors.
Rita and Alex’s generosity, warmth, and ability to make each person feel special and unique significantly contributed to making the CBST community feel more like a family. Their loving presence is deeply missed.
Because Rita and Alex cared so much about AIDS Policy and Advocacy at CBST and Music at CBST, the memorial tribute in their names will support these two facets of the synagogue’s programming. It will help bring up-to-date, engaging AIDS Policy and Advocacy to CBST, while also supporting and encouraging CBST’s innovative Music Program, making their memories a blessing for the next generation.
We are deeply grateful to Jay and Michael for making this gift and honoring Rita and Alex in this beautiful way. Additional contributions in honor of Rita and Alex Fischer z”l are welcome, and will enhance programming that honors their memories. Contribute Here.