For Howard Hook, growing up in Queens gave him a different perspective on Jewish life than he found when he and his wife Ilissa came to Wayne 7 years ago.  They realized how important it was for a young family to become members of a Synagogue,  so in 2009 they, along with their sons Aaron, who turns 10 this month, and Jason who is 5 1/2, joined Shomrei Torah so they would have the Jewish environment  to which he had been accustomed and which he feels is so necessary for his sons.

Howard is a certified financial planner and C.P.A. and co-manages the fee-only financial planning division of a financial planning firm with offices in Roseland and Princeton, NJ.  As a fairly new member, he didn't waste much time in getting involved.  He chaired a most successful fundraiser,  Comedy Night.  The evening was not only financially successful, but it also played to a capacity crowd.

When asked what he does in his spare time, Howard quipped that with 2 young boys there isn't much opportunity for hobbies, although he likes to play golf. Most of his free time is spent with his boys and Ilissa. When questioning him further, Howard noted that it's important to "give back."  He has spoken at a homeless shelter about the importance of budgeting and keeping track of your expenses.  He teaches financial education courses at the Princeton Adult School and is an annual participant in Financial Planning Day (pro bono) where he provides attendees with answers to important questions, such as how to apply for Social Security or Medicare or the importance of having a will. He also is a frequent contributor to the "Ask the Biz Brain and Get with the Plan" column in the Star Ledger.

When asked how he feels about Shomrei Torah, his response was that it is a warm and welcoming environment.  Since he's gotten involved he has met more members and suggests that involvement is an excellent way to meet people.  He offered to have prospective members call him so that he can tell them about his good experiences at Shomrei. He is anxious to be more involved and says, "Just call me."