Doing the Tora Dojo, Solving Problems, and Getting Crafty at the College

Meaningful Martial Arts

Tora Dojo 5th Dan Master Sifu Jack Newman continued his demonstrations and teaching at (CAI), working with both adult and child karate students. On May 23, members of the CAI Tora Dojo classes and instructor Tora Dojo Shodan Sensei Steve Mittelman presented Newman with an Award of Appreciation for his teaching and guidance.

A form of martial arts established in New York City in 1967 by Grand Master Harvey (Chaim) Sober of Yeshiva University, Tora Dojo is the first all-Jewish martial arts association with 17,500 karateka (karate practitioner) in five countries, including Israel. In Japanese, the word Tora means tiger, while also referring to the Torah. The word Dojo means a school of martial arts.

Tora Dojo offers a unique program that bridges the connection between Judaic principles and martial arts philosophy. Mittleman, a graduate of Yeshiva University, Black Belt instructor of Kenpo Karate ("Law of Empty Hand"), merges physical coordination with the Torah, helping to create self-confidence, concentration, composure, responsibility and self-control. The class combines the building of skills through the use of martial art forms (katas), self-defense techniques and maneuvers, stretches and strengthening exercises, with inspirational Torah and karate insights.

Young Problem Solvers

Gifted fifth grade students from throughout Essex County participated in The Essex County Problem Solving Convocation, solving problems and reaping rewards. Sponsored by the Essex County Steering Committee for Gifted Education, 15 towns participated in the May 23 event at the Essex Fells School.  

Six students from the  participated in the event, including , , , Alex Rosa, Paul Ruffolo and Mina Yi. Ruffolo’s team placed first, Rivera’s team placed second, and Maloney’s team placed third.

A great challenge for children who love to solve difficult problems, students from Caldwell-West Caldwell were assigned to work on teams with students from the other Essex County teams. The teams compete by moving to different problem-solving tables where they work together to earn points. 

Congratulations to all of the future problem solvers!

Calling All Crafters

Thinking of putting your craft talents to work? Start planning now for the 37th Annual Caldwell College Craft Fair. The College is inviting vendors to reserve their space at the event, which attracts hundreds of visitors each year to the school’s campus. Scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 19, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., , sponsored by The Friends of Caldwell College and , typically features a wide assortment of handmade items and foods, including custom artwork, handcrafts, baked goods and more. 

For more information, or to reserve space at the fair, contact Jane Bestys at 973-226-2885.