2024 December Tidings

TIDINGS

Te m p l e

Judea

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2024

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TIDINGS | September 2024 | VOL.76 ISSUE 3

Contents 04 President’s Message:

A Festival of Lights and Love: Chanukah

Judith L. Siegal Rabbi

Through Generations

Jonathan R. Fisch Rabbi

05 Happy Chanukah from Temple Judea 06 Rabbis’ Anniversary Weekend

Lisa V. Segal Cantor Sharon Israel Moskovitz Executive Director Danielle F. Spiegelman Sr. Director of Advancement Seth Lewis Levin Director of Education Executive Officers Jan Yelen Sasso PRESIDENT

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Miracles, Rabbi Judith Siegal

08 Eight nights over two years - The blessing of Chanukah!

Rabbi Fisch

09 Spreading Light Through Music, Cantor Lisa Segal

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Year End Giving

Lawrence Lambert FIRST VICE PRESIDENT

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L’Chaim Legacy Society

Samuel Lewis William Martin Howard Wasserman VICE PRESIDENTS

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LEV From the Heart

Miriam Grossman-Rodriguez TREASURER Hilary Gershman SECRETARY Debbie Siegel FINANCIAL SECRETARY Mark Kass IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Board of Trustees Adam Booken Josh Brandfon Charlotte Cassel Lauren Deutch Mike Epstein Sharon Goldman Kim Gerber Josh Gelfman Mark Kessler Marilyn Mittentag Jeff Muller Samantha Sharpe Bernie Stein Marvin Stein Ted Weiss Judy Weissel Sallye Zilberstein Stuart Z. Grossman Counsel Leane Rutter Arnold & Heather Sosler WTJ Co-Presidents Alan Cohen MENsch President

Through a strong Jewish community, we better ourselves and the world.

Thank You to our Donors

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“Sustaining our Future Together” with a Sustaining Membership Commitment

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Save the Date: Mitzvah Bowl Sunday!

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Temple Judea Adult Education Courses

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A Season of Light Celebrating Chanukah Together

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Lighting the Way: Joy, Community, and Connection at Club Judea

20 Exploring the Festival of Lights Chanukah at the Margaux School

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Margaux School Annual Auction

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B’nai Mitzvah Students

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Member Chai-Light

24 Women of Temple Judea 28 Tributes Tu B’Shevat: A Time to Celebrate Growth and Renewal Mark your calendars for Tu B’Shevat, the New Year of the Trees, beginning on the evening of Wednesday, February 12, 2025, and continuing through Thursday, February 13, 2025. This special holiday invites us to celebrate growth, renewal, and our deep connection to the natural world. Stay tuned for updates on how our community will come together to honor this meaningful day.

Wishing you a season of inspiration, light, and connection! @judeagables @themargauxschool

The Temple Judea Tidings (USPS 023114) is published four times a year by Temple Judea, 5500 Granada Blvd., Coral Gables, FL 33146-2698.

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TIDINGS | DECEMBER 2024

Worship Opportunities Kabbalat Shabbat Service

Fridays at 6PM In person, Livestream, and Facebook Livestream:

judeagables.org/temple-judea-live.html Facebook: facebook.com/judeagables Shabbat Morning Minyan

Saturdays at 9-10AM In person and Zoom Torah Study

Saturdays at 10-11AM, Mondays at 9AM In person and Zoom Zoom links can be found at judeagables.org/worship-opportunities.

Shabbat Honors If you are a congregant who would like the honor of leading the blessings over the candles, wine and challah at an upcoming Shabbat service please call or email Marilyn Mittentag at 786-877-1599 or mmittentag@yahoo.com.

Mi Shebeirach List To add the name of a loved one to our Mi Shebeirach list (prayer for health and healing) for Friday night Shabbat services, contact Daphne Parker at d.parker@judeagables.org

Shabbat Kids Club For families with children ages 10 and under, our Shabbat Kids Club is available during the sanctuary service. Staffed by the caring team from Club Judea, your children can enjoy fun, Shabbat-themed activities and crafts in the Club House in Room 201.

No RSVP required.

Celebrate Chanukah This December!

December is a month of gathering, celebrating, and giftgiving. Throughout the month, your clergy will share stories and reflections on the meaning of Chanukah. Join us on Friday nights as we welcome the holiday of Light together!

On Friday, December 27, celebrate with us at Shabbat services at 6 PM. Bring your menorah so we can light them together as a community. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Rock on Shabbat Friday, January 17 at 6pm Join us for an inspiring Rock On Shabbat experience with Cantor Lisa Segal and her dynamic Rock On Shabbat Band! Come together for a vibrant blend of music and reflection as we celebrate the joy and spirit of Shabbat. Evening sponsored by Marlene Krauss and Zachary Berk.

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President’s Message

A Festival of Lights and Love: Chanukah Through Generations Jan Sasso, President As Chanukah approaches, I am reminded of the warmth and joy that the festival of lights has brought to my life, both as a child and as a parent. When I was young, setting up the Menorah with my family was a special ritual. As kids, my brother and I loved arranging the candles, choosing colors thoughtfully each night. Years later, I watched my children embrace this same tradition, planning the order of the colors in the Chanukah candles and creating their own vibrant Menorah displays. We would rotate among the four whose night it was to handle the actual lighting once they were old enough to hold a lit candle. And then I realized we could light more than one Menorah as we started a family collection so everyone had the fun of doing the lighting each night.

I am the keeper of a cherished family Menorah—a modest, beloved Chanukiah from my parents’ home with the memories of those childhood Chanukahs. Over the years, we have also gathered a

collection of Menorahs, some gifted by dear friends. At our now large family gatherings, we still light several Menorahs so no one feels left out. My son’s preschool creation —a colorful hand painted block of wood with bolts for candle holders—remains a memorable Menorah in our collection—and it was probably made over 25 years ago.

Always great art projects were made and sent home from Temple Judea preschool.

For me, Chanukah is always about hope and light. Each night, I love watching the glow of the candles and the peace it brings. After the last night, I carefully clean the Menorahs and put them away on their shelf waiting for next year’s celebration.

Tzedakah became an integral part of our family’s Chanukah celebrations. One year when my children were elementary school age, their focus seemed to distinctly shift from celebrating the story and miracle of Chanukah’s meaning to just the excitement of gifts.

That was when we decided to add a new tradition. For one night each Chanukah, instead of exchanging gifts, we spent our dinner conversation choosing a charity as a family and dedicating our celebration to giving. This tradition certainly became a teaching moment explaining the idea of giving and not just receiving. We discussed different charities and the work that they accomplished.

This new family tradition became very meaningful to our family, and it continued well after the kids were off at college. We would still discuss our charitable giving and sometimes, the kids even brought new charities to our discussions—organizations they’d connected with as young adults.

Chanukah is a time to reflect on family traditions, both past and present. It’s a season to celebrate your own rituals, whether they include a favorite latke recipe, spirited games of dreidel, or the passing out of gelt—chocolate or otherwise. Perhaps this is the year to add an act of tzedakah, bringing the spirit of giving into your celebration in a way that feels meaningful to you and your family. As we honor the festival of lights, let us all take a moment to marvel at the glow of the candles, lighting our way with warmth and hope.

My family wishes everyone a season filled with light, love, and meaningful moments shared with your family and friends. May your homes be filled with the glow of the Chanukah candles and the joy they bring.

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TIDINGS | DECEMBER 2024

HAPPY CHANUKAH! On behalf of the Board of Trustees, Clergy, and Temple Judea staff, we wish you and your family a joyous Chanukah filled with love, light, and happiness!

Looking for blessings, prayers, children’s activities, and more to make your Chanukah celebration meaningful and memorable? Visit reformjudaism.org for a wealth of resources and inspiration.

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R A B B I

Judith S iega l

WORTH THE

R A B B I

Jonathan Fisch

THE RABBIS’ ANNIVERSARY WEEKEND APRIL 25-27, 2025

Honoring

RABBI JUDITH L. SIEGAL & RABBI JONATHAN R. FISCH Anniversary Weekend Co-Chairs

D U L C E B L A C H E R • I L E A N A & G E O R G E B R O N S T E I N • L A U R E N & G R E G O R Y D E U T C H • C A R LY & M I C H A E L E P S T E I N K I M & B E N G E R B E R • E L L E N & RO B E R T G U T LO H N • J E N N I F E R & J A R E D K AY • K AT I E & M A R K K E S SL E R NIKKI & BRI A N KOLES • CHRISTINE & JOSH KOTLER • JULIE & L AW RENCE L A MBERT • SA R A H & L AUREN LERNER J E N N I F E R P OS N E R & J OS H G E L F M A N • L A U R A & S COT T S H E R M A N

Featuring

ACC L A I M E D A U T H O R , L E C T U R E R , A N D L E A D E R W I T H I N T H E R E F O R M M OV E M E N T,

Scholar-in-Residence, Rabbi Lawrence A. Hoffman A N D P U L I T Z E R PR IZ E W I N N I N G AU T H O R A N D H U M O R I S T,

Gala Evening Host, Dave Barry

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TIDINGS | DECEMBER 2024

Miracles

by Rabbi Judith Siegal J.siegal@judeagables.org

Chanukah is a celebration of two miracles. Oxford Dictionary defines a miracle as “a surprising and welcome event that is not explicable by natural or scientific laws”. The Hebrew word for miracle is “Nes.” The Chanukah story includes the miracles of the few Maccabees winning a military victory over the many; and the miracle of finding oil that seemingly would only last one night, lasting eight –even after the Temple had been destroyed and desecrated by Israel’s enemies.

These are true miracles that deserve annual celebration all these years later!

This Chanukah, I want to invite you to look for the miracles here in our own lives and throughout our sacred community. They are abundant! We even have them in our daily morning prayers, called “Nisim B’chol Yom, Miracles of every day.”

The miracles I see and thank God for every day include you, our holy congregation.

When we watch Margaux School parents dropping off their children for the first time, with tears in their eyes, and then - before we know it, we are officiating for that child’s B’nai Mitzvah - it feels like a miracle.

When our clergy are asked to officiate for a wedding of someone who was a teenaged student of ours years ago, that too feels like a miracle.

You see, it is not every day that rabbis and cantors get the opportunity to be in a community for such a long period of time as to see families blossom and flourish, children mature, and babies grow up. Both rabbis have now been at Temple Judea for 10 and 18 years respectively, and Cantor Segal has been in the South Florida Jewish community for longer than that! Because of this, we are all blessed to watch our community grow not only as a whole, but independently as each individual flourishes. That experience feels more than fulfilling to your clergy and represents our daily miracle; our something that is a “surprising and welcome event.”

interviews out of rabbinical school. Temple Judea is a very special place. It embraces the values that are often countercultural. We are not a synagogue where you have to be anyone but yourself. We are a place of inclusivity and where we strive to know everyone by name.

We are a place where even when we have differences of opinions, we can work together with respect for each other. In today’s world, that, too, feels like a bit of a miracle.

As we light the menorah this Chanukah, let us reflect on the profound significance of both miracles we celebrate. Just as the Maccabees overcame overwhelming odds and the tiny flask of oil kindled the Temple’s light for eight miraculous nights, we too can find light amidst darkness in our lives and community.

Each moment we share—watching children grow, witnessing the cycles of life, and supporting one another through challenges— reminds us of the enduring spirit of our ancestors. Their courage inspires us to recognize the miracles woven into our daily lives.

This year, let us not only celebrate the miracles of Chanukah but also actively seek them out in our community. Just as the oil lasted beyond its natural limits, may our collective love and support extend far and wide, nurturing each other and illuminating our shared path.

As we gather to celebrate this season of miracles, I encourage you to share your own stories of light and transformation. Together, let us honor the legacy of the Maccabees and the resilience of our Jewish spirit. Each of you is a part of the miracle that is Temple Judea, and together, we will continue to shine brightly, bringing hope and light to all around us.

May this Chanukah be a time of renewal and gratitude, as we acknowledge the miracles in our midst and the blessings we share.

Happy Chanukah!

When I think back on 18 years serving Temple Judea – I feel that it was something like a miracle that I found Temple Judea. When I was ordained as a rabbi in 2006, I did not think I would be able to do all of the things I wanted in my life - to be a full time rabbi in a synagogue and also to have a family. Today, our children are ages 20, 19 and 13, and it is truly a miracle in my eyes that our family found Temple Judea all those years ago. Temple Judea has been a place that I hoped then - but now know that our family – like so many other families – could thrive. It’s a place that supports lifelong Jewish learning and bettering ourselves and the world through a strong Jewish community (just as our Temple Judea Foundational statement says, but in slightly different words).

When we needed to hire a new rabbi ten years ago, I do feel that it was a miracle that connected our search committee with Rabbi Fisch. We knew right away. Just as I knew right away that this was the synagogue for me all those years ago when I went to my first

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Eight nights over two years- The blessing of Chanukah!

by Rabbi Jonathan Fisch j.fisch@judeagables.org

In the year of 2024, there are only 6 days of Chanukah. In the year 2025, there are 10 days of Chanukah… What does this mean for us?

Absolutely nothing!

Thankfully, we follow the Hebrew Calendar. On the 25th of Kislev, we celebrate Chanukah, and I love that this year it falls on the 25th of December. For the first time in a long time, the Hebrew and the Gregorian dates align. Only eight times since the 1900s has this occurred in the month of December. Eight times… fitting for a holiday that is celebrated for eight nights.

Counting in Judaism is sacred. Jewish communities for thousands of years have counted the days, calling each day by their number, Yom Rishon, Yom Shaini… meaning “The First Day, the Second Day…” Counting upwards to the seventh day, Shabbat.

We count the stars to end our fasts, we count the stars to welcome the new week with Havdalah. We count the days leading up to Shavuot, from Second Seder to the day Torah was given. Some of us even count down the days on Passover until we can regain full control of our meals. Why all this counting? It’s a reminder. A reminder that we must make EVERYDAY COUNT! The notion that this year we will have one holiday, Chanukah, straddling both years—2024 and 2025—serves as a perfect springboard for how we must carry the light from holiness in our sacred world to the mundane.

How are you making every day count? Every day is a blessing as it provides an opportunity to reveal new holiness in our personal world through relationships, our work, friendships and more.

Are you able to elevate each day with new holiness? What are we doing, throughout Chanukah, to spread more light in our fragmented world? How can we continue to spread that light from one year to the next? We straddle the secular New Year with the mitzvah of lighting candles. Marking a secular tradition with Jewish spiritual renewal excites me because it raises the kedushah from nonspiritual to holy.

Let’s make a mark in this world through acts of Godliness. We can transform the ordinary to the extraordinary.

There is a story about Rabbi Elazar Menachem Man Shach who lived in Bnei Brak, Israel, and every so often, he had to make a trip to Jerusalem. He was offered private transportation for these trips, but he refused the offers. Instead, he would travel by bus, which required him to switch from one bus to another mid-trip. This was cumbersome but at his request, no one dared to argue.

Someone once asked him why he preferred to take public transportation instead of being driven privately, which would be

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TIDINGS | DECEMBER 2024

much more convenient for him. Rabbi Shach replied that if he were to be driven by a private driver, he would be forced to make conversation with the driver as an act of politeness and gratitude.

Instead, he rather utilized public transportation; thereby he had the opportunity to study Torah during the trip without having to converse with anyone. When you make your days count, every minute counts.

The power of Chanukah spread over two secular years is just that, a reminder to focus on our days, even the smallest of actions, like how we travel can afford us opportunities of great light. For Rabbi Elazer Menachem Man Shach, he noticed he could immerse in more Torah by bus, so he did.

Finding ways to immerse in our faith, our family, our health more each day is a blessing. Making time for this is a choice.

This year we get an overflow of light from one secular year to the next. Seldom does this occur, so let’s make it extra special, as we fill our hearts, home, and world with the Eternal light by making every minute, hour, and day count.

Happy Chanukah and may the lights that burn in our home be a representation of the Light that burns within…. Oh, and Happy Secular New Year!

Spreading Light Through Music

by Cantor Lisa Segal l.segal@judeagables.org

I am a second career Cantor. Right out of college, I was hired by Jordan Marsh as a corporate trainer and eventually became a systems analyst. Each December, a Jewish co-worker and I were the chosen entertainers for the yearly Christmas Holiday parties for all the employees in the branch stores. It seemed ironic that she and I, two Jewish women, led this music, but it gave us a great joy to spread our joy! That tradition continued throughout my life, singing at various holiday events such as my condominium holiday party, Nicklaus

Children’s Hospital, retirement communities and other places. While I am obviously steeply grounded in my Jewish tradition, bringing joy to others is a part of who I am.

As you start to plan your Chanukah celebrations, I hope you consider including a musical component. Our Chanukah musical tradition continues to evolve as composers create new and innovative music for all ages. All you need to do is check out the plethora of playlists on sites such as Spotify or YouTube. Yet the oldies, such as Rock of Ages, Sivion, Oh Chanukah and Dreyl (both Engish and Yiddush) still resonate for so many of us.

After lighting your candles, it is customary to sing Ma-oz Tzur or “Rock of Ages”, which is a 13th century piyyut (Jewish liturgical poem) that celebrates how the Jews survived four enemies of the past.

During the week of Chanukah, we recite the prayer inserted in the Amidah section of our services that includes a melody entitled Al Hanissim - meaning “for all the miracles”. We also include chant “Hallel” - psalms of praise to God, daily during this festival.

For those of you growing up in the Sephardic tradition, “Ocho Candelikas” (“Eight Little Candles”) was composed by Flory Jagoda, who was born into the Sephardic Jewish community of Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia, in 1926. Over the years, there have been lots of versions made of this charming tune, sung ian Ladino, and I always like to include it in our celebrations.

Rabbi Jonathan Sacks z”l, wrote: From the days of Moses and the bush that burned and was not consumed to the days of the Maccabees and the single cruse of oil, Judaism has been humanity’s ner tamid, the everlasting light that no power on earth can extinguish.

As you increase light with another candle lit each night, may you also increase joy celebrating our musical traditions!

Chag Chanukat Sameach!

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Year End Giving

As we approach the year end, we invite you to reflect on the many ways in which your generosity can make a lasting impact on Temple Judea. Financial vehicles designed for philanthropy offer a powerful opportunity to enhance your giving, while also providing significant tax benefits, long-term financial planning advantages, and the ability to direct your charitable contributions to campaigns and initiatives close to your heart.

From donor-advised funds and charitable trusts to gifts of appreciated assets or planned giving, these strategic tools not only maximize your reach, but also help you leave a legacy that endures for years to come. Whether you're seeking to make an immediate difference or plan for future generations, there are numerous ways to structure your philanthropy to achieve both personal and charitable goals.

This year, we invite you to discover the diverse array of financial solutions available to elevate your charitable giving, ensuring that your support is as impactful as possible. Your commitment can go beyond today, paving the way for transformative change in the lives of Temple Judea families for generations to come.

Opportunities to Give • Participate in the LEV Capital & Endowment Campaign • Dedicate a brick or simcha leaf honoring a loved one • Donate to an existing Temple Judea Fund that touches your heart

• Join our L’Chaim Legacy Society with a Planned Gift • Contribute to one of The Margaux Early Childhood School Funds • Designate a gift in support of our Religious School Fund

How to Give Give with Appreciated Stock Donating appreciated stock multiplies your giving power by removing your tax liability from the stock sale while realizing tax benefits from the donation.

Donate from Your IRA If you are 70 ½ years or older, you can take advantage of the IRA Charitable Rollover or the Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD). You can donate up to $105,000 from your IRA directly to a qualified charity such as Temple Judea without having to pay income tax on the gift.

Make Temple Judea a Beneficiary A beneficiary designation is one of the easiest and most effective ways to make an estate gift.

Commonly owned assets that allow you to designate Temple Judea as your beneficiary include: retirement plans, life insurance policies, wills, and trusts.

Giving Made Easy Online Giving via Credit Card Pay by ACH Wire Transfer Donor Advised Fund

Mail to: Temple Judea Donate by Check c/o Danielle F. Spiegelman The Temple Judea offices are open and able to assist you in processing your year-end gifts via check through December 25th. 5500 Granada Boulevard Coral Gables, Florida 33146

Please note that only gifts made and / or received by December 31st qualify for 2024 tax deductions. For more information, or if you have questions, please contact Danielle F. Spiegelman at 305-667-5657 x 2119 or at d.spiegelman@judeagables.org.

Thank You!

Temple Judea does not provide tax,| DECEMBER legal, or financial 10 TIDINGS 2024advice. Please contact your professional advisor(s) for guidance.

T H E L’C H A I M L E G AC Y S O C I E T Y Ou r L’CH AI M LEG AC Y S O C IE T Y m e m b e r s are a g rou p of d e d i c ate d an d co mmi t te d i n d i vi d u a l s ju st l i ke you who wan t to g u aran te e that Tem pl e Jude a co n ti n u e s to p rovi d e wor sh i p se r v i ce s, p rog rams an d communi t y l e a de rsh i p for m a ny ye a r s to come . By e stabl i shi n g a l e g ac y throu gh a pl a nne d g i f t, you too c a n sh a re Te mp l e Ju d e a’s mi ssi on wi th future ge ne ra t i o ns .

MARJORIE BARON & MICHAEL SPRITZER

ERIC B. MEYERS (Z’L)

BENJAMIN & CAROL BAUM

ESTELLE MICHAELSON (Z’L)

SYLVIA BLAU

CAROLINE MILLER

SANDEE BURGER

MARILYN MITTENTAG & DAVID MAGIDSON

JOANNE & JAMES COHEN

GAIL NEWMAN & JUDGE ROBERT NEWMAN (Z’L)

EMILY & STEVE DEMAR

BARBARA PHILLIPS & HOWARD GOLDMAN

DAVID M. DOLINGER (Z’L)

BONNIE ROBBINS-AIBEL

LORRAINE FEUER (Z’L)

ANNA MAE ROSS

SHEILA FREED

JAN YELEN SASSO & HARVEY SASSO

STUART GITLITZ

JEROME SHULMAN (Z’L)

SUSANA & MICHAEL GOLD

DEBRA & JAMES SIEGEL

BEVERLY LIMMER GREENBERG

JULIE & GARY SIMON

BONNIE & SHELDON GUREN

THE SINGERMAN FAMILY (Z’L) In Loving Memory of Jamie Singerman

OSSIE & HARRY HANAUER (Z’L) SONYA (Z’L) & RICHARD HORWICH (Z’L) MARCIA SIMON KAPLAN (Z’L) LENORE KIPPER JULIE & LAWRENCE LAMBERT ELYSSA & SAMUEL LEWIS

YOUR GIFT WILL: MAKE A DIFFERENCE in the lives of others for many years to come.

SUPPORT Temple Judea and its ongoing mission.

ENSURE that Temple Judea is here for generations to come.

MEET EMERGING FUTURE NEEDS on our campus and within our community.

HELP TEMPLE JUDEA plan today and execute in the future.

IDENTIFY AND PRESERVE what is most meaningful to you at Temple Judea.

PRESENT ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY to do something impactful for others within your lifetime.

LESLIE STERNLIEB PENNY & DR. RICHARD THURER MARK TROEN & CHARLES SURBER JUDY WEISSEL SARAH Z. WIENER (Z’L)

GAIL MEYERS & ANDY HALL (Z’L)

Fo r m o re i n f o r m a t i o n a b o u t h ow to p a r t i c i p a te , p l e a s e c o n t a c t D a n i e l l e F. S p i e g e l m a n a t 3 0 5 . 6 67. 5 6 5 7 x 2 1 1 9 o r d . s p i e g e l m a n @ j u d e a g a b l e s .o rg . T h a n k Yo u .

AS OF 6.25.2024

‫לְדוֹר ו ָדוֹר‬ L’ D O R V ’ D O R

E N HA N C E D TE MPL E JUDE A LOB BY RE N DER I NG BY R OY WEI SSEL (z’l)

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Abraham & Sarah’s Tent Mary & Howard Frank Matriarch Tracey & Bruce Berkowitz Patriarchs Marjorie Baron & Michael Spritzer The Florman Family Foundation In honor of the Blank & Koles Families

Hilary & David Gershman Donna & Mark Kass Lorraine & Jeff Kurland Alice & Alan Lash Stefanie Reed & Family In honor of Evan Reed

Julie & Gary Simon Jessie Wolfson

In memory of Bernard Wolfson

David/HaMelech Stuart Gitlitz Michael & Susana Gold Nedra Kalish Katie & Mark Kessler Nancy Orovitz Bonnie Robbins-Aibel Noreen Gordon Sablotsky Family Philanthropic Fund Leslie Sternlieb In loving memory of Rose and Henry Sternlieb

Jan Yelen Sasso & Harvey Sasso Amy & Barry Turner

Melech/Malka Emily & Steve Demar Wendy & Michael Elkin Sheila Freed & Mel Miller Kim & Ben Gerber Michelle Kaufman & Dave Barry The Lambert Family Gail Meyers Marilyn Mittentag & David Magidson The Newman Family Barbara Phillips & Howard Goldman Monica & Rick Schatz Debbie & Jim Siegel Cynthia & Andy Varat Women of Temple Judea Parnas/Parnasah Shelley & Adam Booken Charlotte & Philip Cassel Keith Chasin

In memory of Lila Chasin Gaines

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Vicki & Hardy Katz Judith & Barry Katzen Marilyn & Ronald Kohn Alyssa Krop-Brandfon & Joshua Brandfon Nancy Berry & Philip Leitman

TIDINGS | DECEMBER 2024

Renee & David Lieberman William Martin Caroline Miller Sheldon Palley (z’l) & Lisa Palley Lyn Pont & Bernie Stein Cantor Lisa & Jim Segal Rabbi Judith & Brian Siegal Rachel & Brad Sohn Cristina & Jeff Weiner Albert Weinfeld In memory of Miriam Weinfeld

Tzedakah Ellen & Jim Barocas Barbara & Kenneth Bloom

In honor of Rabbi Judith Siegal & Rabbi Jonathan Fisch

Marsha & Leon Botkin Miriam Grossman Rodriguez & Pedro Rodriguez Barbara & Lynn Katzen In loving memory of Howard M. Katzen

Elaine & Lee Kraftchick The Richards Family Mindy & Stephen Rosenthal Norman Saxe In memory of Mimi Saxe

Bobbie Siegal Joanne & Richard Waldorf Shalom Carla Berkowitz & Michael Rubin In memory of Bernice & Ken Rubin

Vicki & Neil Einhorn

In honor of the Temple Judea Clergy and the Staff

Abby & Rabbi Jonathan Fisch Daniel Gelfman Beth & Monte Gordon Cristina & Andrew Herskowitz Jess & Bailey Humyn Florence & Bernard (z’l) Jacobson Susan & Steven Kobetz Becca & Mark Lago

In memory of Martha Burke & Harriet Tischler

Shrena Patel & David Garcia-Pedrosa Joseph Reinhardt Carrie Rothstein-Fisch & Dr. Bryan Fisch Beth & Robert Sackstein

In honor of Parents & Grandparents: Frances & Herbert Gaynor - Harold & Rosalina Sackstein – Burton R. Levey

Sharon & Jon Tannen

In honor of our Grandchildren

Dr. Richard & Penny Thurer Mark Troen & Charles Surber Alex, Abby, & Matteo Vicencio Alyssa & Kevin Ware Kathy & Ted Weiss The Israel, Rose, Henry & Robert Wiener Charitable Foundation

Campaign Chairs Marjorie Baron & Michael Spritzer Julie & Gary Simon

Chai Maria & Nathan Berlinski In memory of Gilbert Berlinski Dulce Blacher In memory of Jessica Rutter Shona & Daniel Blonsky

Honorary Chairs Linda & Jonathan Aibel Ellen & Jim Barocas Mary & Howard Frank Stuart Gitlitz Claudia & Joe Greenberg Karyn & Stuart Grossman Jane Levin Veronica & Gary Matzner (z’l) Caroline Miller Marilyn Mittentag & David Magidson Gail Meyers Bonnie Robbins-Aibel Susan Silver

In memory of Jessica Rutter

Melanie Dernis-Rosen & Seth Rosen In memory of Jessica Rutter

Philis & David Edelman

In honor of our Grandchildren

Stephen Felsen

In loving memory of Larry Forman

Sona Gardner

In loving memory of Rose Gardner & Alan Gardner

Alyson & Dennis Ginsburg

In honor of Michael Spritzer’s 80th Birthday

Sandra & Max Goldfarb Hayley Goodman & Mark Finkelstein In memory of Joel Goodman

Serena & Matthew Goodman In memory of Jessica Rutter

Lisa & Michael Herman Karol Hochman & Donald Harvey Richard Kalski In memory of Jessica Rutter

Janice Katz Leslie & Michael Kreines

With great appreciation for welcoming us into the Temple Judea Family

Beth & Scott Lazar

In memory of Jessica Rutter

Amy Leitman Jeanette Levin

In loving memory of Marvin Levin

Sheila & Howard Levine Elyssa & Sam Lewis

In loving memory of Jessica Rutter

Steering Committee Nancy Berry & Philip Leitman Shelley & Adam Booken Michelle & Jeff Eisenberg Abby Fisch Sheila Freed & Mel Miller Hilary & David Gershman Susanna & Michael Gold Beth & Monte Gordon Rebecca & Mark Lago Julie Lambert Alice & Alan Lash William Martin Barbara Phillips & Howard Goldman Jen Posner & Josh Gelfman Rachel & Brad Sohn Mark Troen & Charles Surber Kathy & Ted Weiss Judy Weissel Shelley Wolfberg Internal Team Rabbi Judith Siegal Rabbi Jonathan Fisch Cantor Lisa Segal Mark Kass Jan Yelen Sasso Lawrence Lambert Debbie & Jim Siegel Sharon Israel Moskovitz Danielle F. Spiegelman

Madalyn Mann & Robert Goldszer Ariela Moscowitz Jacqueline Palacios & Ezra Henson Aaron Philipson Cristina Lei Rodriguez & Larry Brooks Louise Ross & Bruce Wolf In memory of Richard Horwich

Nancy & Paul Seidner

In honor of our Grandchildren, Mitchell, Sophie, Ava, & Casey

Joani & Marvin Stein Julie Waas

In loving memory of Alfred Reby and Betty Levenson Reby

Sallye Zilberstein Holly & Len Zwerling

DONOR CATEGORIES as of 11.26.2024

Give to the LEV Campaign today! For more information, contact Danielle F. Spiegelman, Senior Director of Advancement , at 305.667.5657, ext. 2119 or email her directly at d.spiegelman@judeagables.org.

Abraham & Sarah’s Tent $1 Million and above Mishkan $500,000 - $999,999 Matriarchs $250,000 - $499,999 Patriarchs $100,000 - $249,999 David/HaMelech $50,000 - $99,999 Melech Malka $25,000 - $49,999 Parnas/Parnasah $10,000 - $24,999 Tzedakah $5,000 - $9,999 Shalom $1,000 - $4,999 JUDEAGABLES.ORG 13 Chai $18 - $999

“Sustaining our Future Together” with a Sustaining Membership Commitment Written by Temple Judea Member, Ariela Moscowitz We extend heartfelt thanks to Judy Weissel and Rachel Sohn for sharing their journeys and their reasons for choosing to be Sustaining Members at Temple Judea with us. Their stories of dedication and connection illustrate how the Temple has become a cherished part of their lives and demonstrate what it means to give back to a community that they care about deeply.

The Sustaining Membership level is a precisely calculated amount which represents the actual cost for each family unit to balance our operating budget. Members who give at this level ensure that the high standards we hold ourselves to at Temple Judea will be maintained.

Each Jewish family and individual has unique motivations for joining a synagogue, and for Judy and Rachel, Temple Judea has become their perfect match. Judy, a Miami native, and Rachel, a transplant, have each found their own place within the community and built meaningful relationships that have deepened their commitment to sustaining it.

Judy Weissel grew up in South Florida and joined Temple Judea sixty-four years ago upon marrying her husband, Roy. Roy’s father was a founding member of Temple Judea, and his family had remained quite involved. Encouraged by wonderful role models, including Judy’s own father, who had been President of another local synagogue, Judy and Roy took on leadership roles within Temple Judea after their first few years of marriage. They assumed many responsibilities.

Roy, a renowned interior designer, along with two other members dedicated a tremendous amount of time and talent to one of the Temple’s renovations and redesigns. Judy served on the Board for as many years as is allowed. She has since served on the Education and Endowment Committees. Along the way, she has bonded and connected with members she considers both mentors and friends and has watched generations of children grow up! Relationships are incredibly important to Judy, and she says that because Temple Judea lives up to its motto, “with us it’s personal”, it feels like her second home. She says “of course, I’m going to take care of my home!” She has worked

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TIDINGS TIDINGS || DECEMBER DECEMBER 2024 2024

“Temple Judea lives up to its motto, ‘With us it’s personal.’ It feels like my second home—of course, I’m going to take care of my home!” — Judy on membership and understands that some members are able to contribute more than others. Judy feels strongly that Temple Judea should “not just exist but thrive” and that as members become able to take on more responsibilities and commitments within the community, they should.

Rachel Sohn and her husband, Brad, moved to Miami from Los Angeles in 2009. They moved to be closer to family on the East coast and for Brad to attend law school. Without roots in Miami, they joined several temples in South Florida before making their way to Temple Judea just a few years ago. Since then, they and their three children, Marlo, Ozzie, and Moe have felt the sense of belonging for which they had been searching. Rachel describes them as a “loving, kind, fun, and eccentric family,” and they were looking for a spiritual home where they would not only be accepted but celebrated. They have “found their place,” and are committed to being an active part of the community they love so much. Rachel shared that she “believes in participating as much as we can,” and currently serves on the board of Women of Temple Judea. Marlo will soon become a Bat Mitzvah, and Ozzie and Moe participate in B’nai Mitzvah Club Jr. We extend our appreciation to those who give at this level and honor them for their commitment to:

• • • •

Funding the day-to-day operations of the temple Strengthening our community’s foundation Supporting our temple’s fiscal responsibility Safeguarding the vitality of temple programming for generations to come

We are profoundly grateful to our Sustaining Members, who ensure Temple Judea’s continued success. We invite our community

to join us on Friday, December 6, to honor our Sustaining Members in a “Raise Your Glass” Shabbat. Thank you for your dedication to helping Temple Judea thrive.

Thank You to our Sustaining Members!

Jennifer Abeloff & Howard Wasserman

Rhonda Ginsburg Labbie & Andrew Labbie

Esther Perez Apple & Lawrence Apple

Claudia & Joseph Greenberg

Vicki & Edward Busch

Melanie Helfman-Pelle Jan & David Ichel

Elaine & Lee Kraftchick

Noreen Sablotsky

Julie & Lawrence Lambert

Laura & Scott Sherman

Anoly & David Landsberg

Debra & Jim Siegel

Renee & David Lieberman

Barbara Silverman & John Kozyak

Renee & Carlos Lopez-Cantera

Sydney Carpel Schaecter & David Schaecter

Florence Jacobson

Shirley & Bo Crane

Laura & Jeff Kaplan

Emily & Steven Demar

Erin & Hayden O’Byrne

Andrea Diamond Kanter & Steven Kanter

Julie Kanter & Jonathan Haddad Jane & Gerald Katcher

Jessica & Andy Osteen

Patricia & Marc Epstein

Michelle Kaufman & Dave Barry

Susana & Ignacio Pakciarz

Mikki & Lee Feinberg

Vicki & Hardy Katz

Lisa Palley

Laura Jean Gelber & Edward Gelber

Lynn & Barbara Katzen

Jennifer Posner & Joshua Gelfman

Elisa & Eliot Gelber Kim & Ben Gerber

Erin Kobetz & David Kerman Marilyn & Ronald Kohn Nikki & Brian Koles

Nan Markowitz Veronica Matzner

Lori & Michael Rehr

Rachel & Bradford (Brad) Sohn Joshua Spielman Silvia & Alberto Stark Lyn Pont & Bernard Stein Amy & Michael Thorpe Judith Weissel Myrna & Lawrence Wheatman Risa Topp Wine Jan Yelen Sasso & Harvey Sasso

Angela & Jeffrey Ritter Louise Ross & Bruce Wolf

We would also like to extend a warm welcome to our

New & Returning Members!

Hannah Babbitz

Julie & Jared & Fruchtman

Ellen Leesfield & Pamela Perry

Samuel Ravetz

Paul Borochin

Nancy & Ronald Gelles

Sharon Levy

Michelle & Herbert Rosenfeld

Amanda Burns

Mark Ginsberg

Carmi Saunsaucie

Carol & Mark Brooks

Grace & Zachary Glick

Stephanie Lox & Jeremy Litwack

Jenna Fischman & Luis Casas Natasha Cervi & Mark Gunia Jordana & Cole Charnas Erin Cohen Chantel & Patrizio De Brasi Kristelle & Frank DelloRusso Emily Ebert Ellyn Elkins Lauren Dub & Andrew Fink Bernie Friedman

Carl Goldfarb Jacob Goldstein Nathan Goodwin & Brandon Jackson

Barbara & Ari Lustbader Elvia & Sean Marcus Ana Mantica & Michael Berger Howard Millhauser

Remy Gordon

Terri Moret

Ossie Hanauer Susie & Jason Katz

Navia Moysidis & Devan Luster

Rachel Kipnis

Lisa Palley

Fabiana La Grave & Alexander Kohn

Vicki Pearlman

Dylan & Greg Savage Clarie Savitt Victoria & Andrew Shapiro Sandra Shapiro Tracey & Larry Spiegelman Shoshana & Kevin Vernick Joshua Werblin Rachel & Noah Wolman Stefanie & Allan Ziegler

Lindsay & Joseph Olin

JUDEAGABLES.ORG JUDEAGABLES.ORG

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SAVE THE DATE!

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2025 KICK-OFF AT 9AM Get ready for an exciting morning of touchdowns and community fun on Mitzvah Bowl Sunday! Join us as we come together to support Rise Against Hunger and other important causes. Participate in engaging activities that unite our community while making a meaningful impact.

For all the latest updates, visit judeagables.org/mitzvahbowl25

TEMPLE JUDEA

SECOND ANNUAL CORN HOLE TOURNAMENT

Our corn hole tournament will support Israel. Bring your competitive spirit and help us continue raising funds to support this vital cause!

START THE NEW YEAR WITH A MITZVAH SPONSOR 418 MEALS FOR RISE AGAINST HUNGER WITH A $180 DONATION! Start the new year with a mitzvah! Become a sponsor for $180 which will provide 418 meals for Rise Against Hunger. If you’re interested in participating or sponsoring this event, please contact Rabbi Jonathan Fisch at j.fisch@judeagables.org.

SPECIAL THANKS

Thank you to our Mitzvah Bowl Sunday Co-Chairs: Serena Goodman, Jen Abeloff, and Alan Cohen and Social Action Network Co-Chairs: Shelley Booken & Charlotte Cassel.

We also appreciate the support of WTJ and MENSch in making this event a success.

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TIDINGS | DECEMBER 2024

Winter Adult Learning Opportunities at Temple Judea This winter, Temple Judea invites you to explore our engaging lineup of adult education programs. From thought-provoking discussions on Jewish leadership and culture to language learning and personal growth, there’s something for everyone. Mark your calendar and join us for these enriching opportunities. Visit judeagables.org/adult-learning to register.

Friday Night Flicks: Israeli Film and TV

After Shabbat, come together for a thoughtful discussion with Seth Lewis Levin and resident Israeli TV enthusiast Sallye Zilberstein for a reflective conversation exploring the films’ themes and its impact on our understanding of the Holocaust’s legacy. This program has been made possible in part by the Goldberg Adult Education Fund.

“Treasure” Friday, December 6 7:30pm-9pm A compelling Holocaust-themed film that explores family,

Scholar Series

Save the Date!

Rabbis’ Anniversary Weekend Friday-Sunday, April 25-27 Scholar-in-Residence Rabbi Lawrence A. Hoffman

memory, and resilience. Treasure follows the journey of Ruth and her father, Edek, as they confront their family’s complex history in Poland. Through this story, we witness the impact of trauma on survivors and subsequent generations. “iMordechai” Friday, February 14 7:30pm-9pm A Holocaust survivor, born and raised in a different time,

must face the realities of modern world. When confronted with an unfamiliar object, an iPhone, will Mordecai be able to fit into a world that has changed so much around him?

Modern Hebrew with Guy Nir January 14, 21, 28, February 4, 11, 18, 25, March 4

Join Guy Nir, our expert from Jerusalem, for an engaging advanced Hebrew class designed to elevate your language skills. Whether you’re looking to deepen your connections or enhance your travel experiences, this course is perfect for you. It’s ideal for those who have completed our beginner’s course and want to continue their journey toward confident, conversational Hebrew for their next trip to Israel. This program has been made possible in part by the Goldberg Adult Education Fund.

Help Us Shape Lifelong Learning!

Join us as we welcome Rabbi Lawrence Hoffman, a mentor to Rabbi Siegal and a leading scholar in Jewish thought, to celebrate our Rabbis’ Anniversary Weekend. Rabbi Lawrence Hoffman is professor emeritus at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, where he has shaped generations of rabbis and cantors. Author of 50 books, he is internationally known for his lectures and his spiritual approach to synagogue consultation. In 1994, he co-founded Synagogue 2000, a project envisioning synagogues as moral and spiritual centers for the 21st century. His popular “Open Letters to My Students” can be read on his blog, Life and a Little Liturgy.

What does lifelong learning look like for you? Whether you’ve joined a program or not, we want your input! Click here to take our quick survey and share your ideas to help us plan meaningful programs for all.

This program has been made possible by the Eric B. Meyers Scholar-in-Residence fund.

Soulful Parenting with Rabbi Fisch Sundays, February 23, March 2, 9 | 10am-12pm

Embark on genuine and open discussions about parenthood with Rabbi Fisch. Together, let’s dive into the journey of cultivating calmness, nurturing curiosity, and embracing spirituality as parents. Drawing inspiration from Jewish tradition and teachings, we’ll reflect on our unique parenting experiences. All parents, irrespective of family structure, are warmly welcomed, and we joyfully celebrate the rich diversity of religious backgrounds within our community. Space is limited as this will intentionally be a small intimate group. This program has been made possible in part by the Ray Berman Education Fund.

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A Season of Light Celebrating Chanukah Together

by Seth Lewis Levin • Director of Education S.lewislevin@judeagables.org This year’s festival of lights is particularly poignant.

When sunlight is at its dimmest, Jews across the world have relied on Chanukah to remind us of the hope of tomorrow. This holiday has become a particularly Jewish-American opportunity to celebrate together with family and friends. As it falls during the winter break, we want to support you all with resources to celebrate this culturally rich holiday.

As we mourn the loss of so many lives in the Middle East, we are also reminded of the tremendous battle the Maccabees fought against a much larger foe. In that light, it is especially important for us to come together around a shared love of food (latkes and sufganiyot), to spin the dreidel, and of course, to light our Chanukiah!

At J-PLEx, we will revisit the story in Limud Theater with Alyssa, prepare for celebrating at home by creating ritual objects, and join together for the consecration of a new chapter of Jewish learners (our Kindergarten class) with a Family Shabbat and dinner on Friday, December 13th.

Our teens kicked off the Chanukah season with a meaningful field trip to Target, where they purchased gifts for children at JAFCO. These thoughtful donations help brighten the holiday season for families in need. They will also be making latkes, participating in a “White Elephant Swap,” and decorating cookies. For the first time ever, Temple Judea will be hosting a “Teen Chanukah Extravaganza,” where we’ll be inviting Temple Beth Am’s youth group to join us for a fun and meaningful evening to celebrate the season of light. This event will include games and challenges for our teens, a mitzvah program, and meaningful time in our sanctuary with the clergy.

Together, the Education team looks forward to noshing, singing, and playing together in the coming weeks. Explore The Jewish Education Project and PJ Library for fantastic resources to help you celebrate at home!* Please reach out to us for any additional information you might need!

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TIDINGS | DECEMBER 2024

Lighting the Way

Joy, Community, and Connection at Club Judea

AFTER SCHOOL AT TEMPLE JUDEA

by Yohandra Perez-Rosales • Club Judea Director y.perez-rosales@judeagables.org Club Judea has been radiating the light of Jewish values, engaging our Littles, Middles, and Bigs in joyful, meaningful experiences. The Littles bring brightness to the clubhouse through their hands-on Messy Play, exploring creativity and connection in ways that mirror the light they bring to each other’s lives. Our Middles have embraced the spirit of teamwork and friendship in Obstacle Course classes, cheering each other on and learning that helping others is like sharing light with the world.

The Bigs have had an exciting time in cooking classes, where they made Ugat Chokolad (chocolate cake) and sushi. These culinary adventures teach them that sharing food is one way to bring warmth, connection, and joy—values that reflect Jewish tradition. Through every activity, whether creating, learning, or supporting friends, Club Judea children experience how acts of kindness and community bring light into our lives and the lives of others.

Registration for our next session is now open for current Club Judea families! New family registration will begin on December 8. If you’re interested in experiencing the magic of Club Judea, we invite you to join us for our Showcase on Wednesday, December 11th at 5:30pm. Come see our beautiful space, meet our amazing community, and dive into activities that capture the spirit of our kehillah.

We’re also thrilled about our upcoming Moana production! The children’s dedication to the show fills our clubhouse with song, from rehearsals to van rides, adding excitement and joy everywhere. Join us for this unforgettable performance on Sunday, December 15, at 1 p.m., and see firsthand the light and enthusiasm each child brings to our Club Judea family.

Wednesday, December 11 5:30pm-7pm RSVP Required Come See the Magic of Club Judea in Action!

Families are invited to visit the clubhouse and experience the exciting opportunities we offer! Explore the engaging enrichment activities our students enjoy and see the fun and learning in action. Click here to RSVP.

Club Judea Registration Is Now Open Sign Up Today!

n to Our aftercare program is ope and all Margaux School students Grade. children in Pre-K through 5th ent Registration is open for curr ool Club Judea and Margaux Sch Judea families, as well as Temple members, and opens to the 8. community on December Click here to register today!

Club Judea is generously sponsored by the Burger Family Youth and Cultural Endowment Fund and the Temple Judea Endowment Fund, in partnership with The Jewish After School Accelerator Program.

JUDEAGABLES.ORG

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Exploring the Festival of Lights

Chanukah at the Margaux School

by Jackie Vera • Early Childhood Director j.vera@judeagables.org Each year for Chanukah, children and families look forward to celebrating traditions and togetherness. As we prepare for the Festival of Lights, the teachers work with the children to explore the story of the Maccabees and the meaning behind our eight nights of celebration. The children ask questions like, “How did the oil last so long?” and “What is a miracle?”

This provides a wonderful opportunity for teachers to welcome the rabbis into the classroom and explore these questions and concepts together.

Give your child the opportunity to explore, wonder, and discover their unique gifts in a positive, joyful setting

Light is a common theme that emerges when the children learn about Chanukah. Naturally, the teachers lean into this interest and explore the concept of light in the Atelier. Chanukah presents us with a wonderful opportunity to learn about where light comes from, how light is used, and the ways we can manipulate light.

Our teachers do a beautiful job of tying this exploration into each child’s Jewish identity, discussing how light holds deeper meaning for Jewish people beyond just the physical light we can see. They ask the children questions like, “What brings you light during Chanukah?” For many children, that source of light is their family.

Our tradition of gathering each year to celebrate Chanukah together in the classrooms is one of the most magical moments of the preschool year. The children are illuminated with pride as they walk into the classroom to show their families how the room has been transformed for this special holiday celebration. The smell of latkes fills the air, and the children are always eager to share the dreidels and chanukiahs they have been working on in the weeks leading up to the celebration.

The most heartwarming part of our Chanukah traditions is hearing and seeing photos of how the children light their candles at home on the chanukiah they made at school, singing the blessings they’ve been practicing with their teachers and friends. The bridge and connections from the classroom to home truly light up this holiday.

Don’t Miss Out on a Year of Joyful Learning!

Registration is now open for current Margaux families and Temple Judea members.

Click here to register today!

Community registration opens on January 1.

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TIDINGS TIDINGS || DECEMBER DECEMBER 2024 2024

2025 MARGAUX SCHOOL PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION

Annual Auction

Thursday, February 6, 2025 7pm at Temple Judea in the Social Hall 5500 Granada Boulevard

Tickets

Early Bird pricing through January 9 $150/ticket $275/couple Beginning January 10 $175/ticket $325/couple Join us for the Margaux School's Biggest Night of the Year—an unforgettable evening inspired

by Italian elegance, with cocktails, delectable bites, and exclusive bidding under the glow of the Mediterranean. Get ready to sip, savor, and celebrate La Dolce Vita together!

Click here for tickets JUDEAGABLES.ORG

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Mazal Tov to our B’nai Mitzvah Students!

Valentina Carmona Saturday, December 7 at 5pm Becoming a Bat Mitzvah means taking a HUGE step forward in my journey with Judaism. Most people would say it’s when they become a woman but to me it’s more than that. Reading from the Torah will be one of the holiest moments in my life and will be a huge step for me in Judaism.

Being a Jew and participating in Judaism connects me to more people than I will ever know. Judaism provides me a community, a home. Without being Jewish I would of never met my best friends or future bridesmaids to my wedding. My kids will one day participate in every holiday and will go to Jewish camp. They will learn the importance of Judaism and the community it brings. I will continue my journey in Judaism but also make sure it continues within my family.

Rafael Moro Saturday, December 7 Hello everyone! On this once in a lifetime occasion, I would like to express how grateful I am to be a part of this illustrious community. I am not sure how to put it exactly, but the best way to explain the emotional gravity of my Bar Mitzvah to me is like winning a long, grueling tennis match during a school meet. At first it seems impossible, yet as the hours go by, point by point, game by game, it all starts to come together. Similarly, I am seeing this happen in my Bar Mitzvah as this commitment to studying Torah is culminating in the form of this ceremony. This is what it means to me. I value our planet, and as such, my mitzvah project is centered on partnering with the Frost Museum to clean up beaches.

Additionally, after my Bar Mitzvah I plan to stay in contact with the Rabbis and continue studying Torah when time permits. Finally, my #1 inspiration to work hard at my Bar Mitzvah are my parents and Mrs. Bulbin. They taught me so much about both the Torah and about life, so thank you to them!

Marlo Sohn Saturday, January 11 at 11am The purpose of my bat mitzvah has never been for the party. The flashy lights and shiny decorations are not for me. It is to represent my Jewish adulthood. For me to become a bat mitzvah means to embrace my heritage as a Jew, and as a person. When I see my whole family gathered at once it reminds me of the family that is not there - my Jewish ancestors. And I know that becoming an adult means continuing their legacy through L’dor V’dor - from one generation to the next.

Eliana Rogers Saturday, February 22 at 11am Becoming a bat mitzvah means so much to me, but it means that I am viewed as an adult in the Jewish community. It also means that I’ve worked very hard. My mitzvah project is raising money for the Israeli Children’s Fund (ICF), which helps children in Israel who have lost their parents since October 7th. I chose this because I cannot even begin to understand what it’s like for kids my age going through the war in Israel. After my Bat Mitzvah, I want to stay involved in the temple and the Jewish community by helping kids get ready for their bar and Bat Mitzvah and going to services. Someone who inspires me in my Jewish faith is my sister because I saw her go through all I am going through now as I prepare for my Bat Mitzvah, and she is so helpful with whatever I need.

Building Bonds, Deepening Traditions: The B’nai Mitzvah Club Experience

by Gaby Enser Tangir •B’nai Mitzvah Director g.ensertangir@judeagables.org Gathering in the sanctuary, our B’nai Mitzvah Club students study prayers, Torah portions, and Haftarot, creating a shared learning experience that deepens their understanding of Jewish tradition. This collaborative approach not only strengthens their individual knowledge but also cultivates a supportive and inclusive atmosphere. By studying together, the B'nai Mitzvah club students form lasting bonds, creating a vibrant and engaged community within the larger Temple Judea congregation. It is truly inspiring to watch these young teens support and encourage each other as they navigate their spiritual journeys enduring relevance of Judaism in their lives. We are proud to have some recent students become Madrichim to teach their peers all they’ve just learned!

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TIDINGS | DECEMBER 2024

Count your blessings Mazal Tov to Edith and Malcolm Neuwahl on the birth of their grandson, Jacob Coffman Neuwahl, nephew to Janette and Josh Tannen, and cousin to Lyla and Spencer Tannen.

Mazal Tov to Sandee Burger on becoming a great grandmother, and to Susan Burger on becoming a grandmother to Elizabeth Richelle Greenberg-Malmin.

Mazal Tov to Irene Kogan on becoming a great grandmother, and to Karen Kogan-Rosenzweig on becoming a great aunt to Sheperd James Lyda.

Mazal Tov to Nancy and Lew Fishman on the birth of their granddaughter, Colbie Jade Fishman.

Mazal Tov to Astrid & Jay Kaufman on the birth of their daughter, Kali Rose Kaufman.

Mazal Tov to proud grandmother Susan Silver and proud great grandmother Dianne Singer on the birth of Dawson Reid Gutman. Proud parents are Jillian Silver and Alex Gutman.

Mazal Tov to Becca and Mark Lago on the birth of their daughter Madison Elliotte Lago. Madison joins big sister Hayden and big brother Ethan.

Mazal Tov to Alina and Dan Schechner on the birth of Emilio Alvaro Schechner. Emilio joins big brother big brother Diego and big sister Paloma.

Member Chai-light Maria & Nate Berlinski

Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background? I am a mompreneur who is passionate about health & wellness. I live in Coral Gables with my husband, Nathan, my son, Sammy, and our little princess, Julia.

What or who brought you to Temple Judea? We were drawn to the warm sense of community and we absolutely love the clergy!

What are some things you’re looking forward to experiencing at Temple Judea? We look forward to the many family events at the temple.

What is your favorite Jewish Holiday & why? Chanukah! It’s a very nice time of the year and I love seeing how excited our kids are for the holiday (and the presents!)

If you could have a Shabbat dinner with anyone who has passed away or is living, who and why? Both my husband’s and my father passed away.

We miss them terribly and wish they could see their grandchildren.

How has your time at Temple Judea impacted your spiritual or personal growth? It’s taught me that there is no single right way to be Jewish. It’s very liberating and I really enjoy being part of this community.

Is there anything else you’d like our community to know about you? I am a very social person and really like meeting new people at Temple Judea.

JUDEAGABLES.ORG

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TEMPLE JUDEA

WTJ Calendar 2024-2025 EVENTS December Menorah Painting Art Event Gift Shop Chanukah Pop-up Book Club (zoom) Latkes and Applesauce pick-up Gift Shop Chanukah Pop-up January 8 Book Club (zoom) 24 Professional Networking Event 26 Canasta Class 27 Canasta Class February 2 Canasta Class 3 Canasta Class 10 Canasta Class March 1 Progressive Dinner May 14 President’s Luncheon 5 8 11 15

Together We Make a Difference

by WTJ Co-Presidents Leanne Rutter-Arnold and Heather Sosler As we reflect on our recent activities, we are filled with gratitude for the dedication of those who have stepped up to take on leadership positions in our sisterhood. In September we celebrated our Sisterhood Shabbat and Board Installation weekend, setting a strong foundation for the year and reinforcing our commitment to each other and to our congregation. We had the honor of hosting WRJ Southeast District Area Day, bringing together sisterhoods from across the region to engage in meaningful discussions and strengthen connections. It was inspiring to hear so many passionate voices united in purpose and we are most grateful to Cantor Segal for inspiring us with her music and D’var Torah. The weekend concluded with our WTJ board retreat, facilitated by WRJ’s National Board Treasurer Susan Singer, whose expertise and invaluable insights have helped shape our plan for the future.

We are so appreciative of the relationships built with Susan and other WRJ leaders who have shared their wisdom with us.

This fall, our fundraising team has been busy with our High Holy Day Card and honey sales. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed, making it possible for WTJ to give back through meaningful grants and donations to Temple Judea and the community. Our Community Service team has launched new programs, including the Birthday-in-a-Box initiative for JCS and an opportunity to support Casa Valentina’s Friendsgiving meal. Looking ahead, we are excited for the Chanukah season, filled with fun activities like a Menorah Painting Program, Latke Sale and our always meaningful JAFCO Chanukah Gift Drive.

Look for more details on the following pages and each week in the temple E-news.

Lastly, a big thank you to all who attended our Membership Event last month and especially to our chairs, Emily Demar and Susan Silver, who led an amazing group of committed volunteers to bring the event to life.

We are grateful for your continued support and dedication to our Sisterhood. Together, we are making a difference.

Warm regards, Leanne & Heather

BOARD MEETINGS December 11th January 15th February 12th March 19th April 9th May 14th

9:30 AM 9:30 AM 7:30 PM 9:30 AM 9:30 AM 9:30 AM

* 9:30 am meetings in the Silverman room

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WTJ Professional Networking Event January 24, 2025 We are pleased to announce our second Professional Networking event! This breakfast, to be held at Temple Judea, is another wonderful opportunity to interact with professional women members of our Temple. Whether you’re looking for new connections, a career change, new employment, or you’re hiring, make sure you take advantage of our network of amazing women for lively conversation, professional development and introductions.

More information to come!

TIDINGS | DECEMBER 2024

Progressive Dinner SAVEtheDATE

Mark your calendars for the much anticipated WTJ Progressive Dinner! On March 1, 2025 your temple friends will gather for a re-imagined evening of food, fun, and friendship! We are taking a progressive approach to the progressive dinner and focusing on what everyone loves most about this traditional event...Gathering together, welcoming new members and reconnecting with old friends.

Update your calendars and Save The Date: March 1, 2025 If you are interested in joining the planning committee, please contact Sharon Goldman at chefesssg@gmail.com or Shari Byrd at Shariobyrd@bellsouth.net.

We can’t wait to see you there!

BOOK CLUB December 11th, 7:30pm via Zoom Searching for a book club? Look no further! WTJ’s book group is always open to new members! With rare exceptions (as when our meeting date conflicts with a temple event of importance to our group), we meet on the second Wednesday of the month, via Zoom, at 7:30 PM. We’ll continue online for the foreseeable future, as attendance has been significantly better at our virtual meetings.

If you would like to participate and do not currently receive emails from the Book Club, please email Judy Siskind, the group’s coordinator (jsiskind@yahoo.com) so that she can put you on the mailing list and send you the Zoom link and some background articles about the novel.

December 11: Nora Webster by Noim Toibin is our December selection. As a group we enjoyed Toibin’s fine character depiction in Brooklyn some years ago, and Nora Webster has received fine reviews from critics and our own members who have read it.

January 8: Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan is our January selection, a very short novel by the author of Foster, another short work we read and appreciated this past year.

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Chanukah Fun

Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in WTJ’s exciting Chanukah initiatives!

Gift Shop Chanukah Pop-Up Sunday, December 8 8:30 am -12:30 pm Sunday, December 15 9:00 am -12:30 pm Need Gifts? Decor? We have great new inventory, plus all the Chanukah must-haves.

Modern Menorahs, traditional dreidels, yummy gelt. You name it, we’ve got it!

Prefer a more personal shopping experience?

Reach out to Jessica at wtjgiftshop@gmail.com to schedule and she will be happy to help you!

Menorah Painting We are excited to host a fun art event where we will gather to socialize, enjoy wine and snacks, and paint beautiful menorahs at Art Thyme

Membership Event WTJ Annual Membership Event Recap: Feed Your Body & Nourish Your Soul The Women of Temple Judea’s Membership Event in early November was a warm and wonderful evening as we welcomed new and returning members to the sisterhood.

Over 85 women gathered to hear distinguished physician Dr. Karen Koffler’s informative, integrative talk on health and well-being. She covered aspects from all four pillars of wellness: nutrition, mindfulness, movement, and sleep. Attendees enjoyed a delicious, healthy light dinner prepared by Sharon Goldman, which incorporated key ingredients recommended by our guest speaker. The meal was complemented by healthy desserts baked by several WTJ Board members.

It was an unforgettable evening of laughter, learning, and relaxation, where we shared ideas on ways to nourish the soul while reconnecting with old friends and making new ones.

Our deepest gratitude to the Membership Welcome Event Co-Chairs Emily Demar and Susan Silver; and the planning committee and volunteers: Linda Bittel, Shona Blonsky, Marsha Botkin, Sharon Goldman, Lynne Seidner, Jessica Kornfeld, Leanne Rutter Arnold, Heather Sosler, and Shari Witkoff; and to Samantha and Mason Sharpe for hosting the event at their beautiful home.

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TIDINGS | DECEMBER 2024

Pottery Studio on December 5th! Reach out to Lauren Beiley to see if last minute addition is possible at lbeiley1@gmail.com Latke & Homemade Applesauce Fundraiser Order by December 9!

Who doesn’t love latkes? Once again, WTJ is selling delicious latkes to complete your holiday meals. Each box contains a dozen frozen kosher latkes. This year we are also offering homemade applesauce by our very own Sharon Goldman!

Click here or scan this QR code for the order form.

Community Service

WTJ is constantly looking for opportunities to help and support our community Birthday-in-a-Box We are excited to have launched a new initiative to empower and bond client families of JCS by helping them maintain the important tradition of celebrating birthdays! Throughout the year, you can help bring birthday joy by signing up to build and deliver a beautiful box of party supplies, including cake mix & frosting, balloons, party hats, plates, napkins, and more. The boxes will be gifted to the celebrating JCS client. There are many children, teens and adults helped by JCS, and this is a wonderful way to brighten their special day.

Casa Valentina Friendsgiving WTJ hosted Friendsgiving for the residents of Casa Valentina just before the Thanksgiving holiday and added a homemade touch with side dishes, desserts, and flowers. Casa Valentina’s mission is to provide at-risk and former foster care youth with safe affordable housing, life skills, and continued support so they can achieve and maintain self-sufficiency. WTJ has been a proud supporting partner of Casa Valentina for many years.

You can sign up here, or scanning this QR code, or email Serena Goodman at ssherard33@gmail.com for more information. Once you sign up, specific instructions will be emailed to you.

JAFCO Chanukah Gift Drive Every year WTJ organizes a Chanukah drive to provide gifts for children at JAFCO. This year the famous dreidel boards worked their magic again and helped Temple Judea fulfill almost all the wishes for 25 children for all 8 nights of Chanukah! We thank you on behalf of the children for your extraordinary generosity in making these wishes come true. There are only three gifts left on the Amazon wishlist for you to purchase, and if you would still like to contribute, gift cards in any amount are also appreciated. All gifts should be delivered to the Mittentag Administrative Offices at Temple Judea by December 8th. If you have questions, would like to donate by check, or would like to volunteer to help wrap gifts and decorate at JAFCO Village on December 10th, email Elyssa Lewis at elyssalewis@gmail.com Click here or scan this QR code below to see the Wish List.

Mah Jongg & Canasta Exercise your mind with The Women of Temple Judea Order 2025 Mah Jongg Cards Ready to exercise your mind? It’s time to get your official 2025 National Mah Jongg League cards from Women of Temple Judea! When you purchase your cards through WTJ, the National Mah Jongg League makes a donation back to Women of Temple Judea.

Orders are due February 1, 2025.

Click here or scan this QR code for the online order form.

Questions? Contact Michelle Eisenberg.

Play Mah Jongg on Mondays Join us Monday afternoons 12:30-3:30 or evenings 6:30-8:30 at Temple Judea. New players welcome! For more info or to be added to our Mahjong Maven’s WhatsApp group please contact Nancy Leitman at nancyleitman@gmail.com

Learn to play Canasta Another Great Way to Exercise Your Mind!

WTJ is pleased to announce a NEW Introductory Canasta Course in January/February 2025. A series of five 2-hour classes at Temple Judea will be taught by a seasoned instructor, designed to maximize the learning curve and get you on your way to independent play! For security purposes, non-temple members are welcome to sign up only when invited by a TJ member.

Click here or scan this QR code to sign-up!

Please contact Barbara Osborn at beomiami@aol.com for more information.

JUDEAGABLES.ORG

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TRIBUTES Ann & Victor Reiter Art Fund In memory of Jimmie Reiter by: Leslie and Howard Chatzinoff Carolyn and Neil Coplan Judie and Bob Greenman Carol Harren Christine Hughes and Abe Ostrovsky Patricia Lieberman Madalyn Mann and Robert Goldszer Arline and Lawrence Silver Audrey Weinberg Karen and Barry Wolf B’nai Mitzvah Director Discretionary Fund In celebration of Gail Newman’s birthday by: Barbara and Howard Chaiet Linda Greenhill Fran and Gerson Rapoport Sheila Sackler In memory of Bernhard E. Weinstein by: Maya and Jerry Greenberg Ed Shohat

We appreciate the thoughtfulness of those who support Temple Judea by remembering and honoring loved ones and friends through generous contributions.

In loving memory of Shelly Guren

by Bonnie Guren In memory of Ronald Lieberman

by Ellen and Joel Rosenblatt In loving memory of Marty Winston

by Phyllis Winston In honor of the High Holy Days by: Jan and Albert R. Cohen Jack Dresner Sona Gardner In memory of Sonia Bochner by: Jackie and Alan Davis Wendy and Michael Elkin Arlene Feldman Miriam Fisher and Dan Hulkower Lois Kahn Gail Margol and Dr. Ronald Flam Carole and Richard Masington Nancy Orovitz Marian Siegel

In memory of Ramón Enser by: Carrie, Sean, Maya, and Casey Bettinger-Lopez Marsha and Leon Botkin Jen, Josh, Asher, and Henry Gelfman Vicki and Hardy Katz Alice and Alan Lash Elyssa and Sam Lewis Marilyn Mittentag and David Magidson Stefanie Reed and Family The Reid Family Jennifer Abeloff and Howard Wasserman

Carol Magidson Medical Insurance Fund In loving memory of Fern Leitman

by Nancy and Philip Leitman

Burger Family Youth and Cultural Endowment Fund In memory of Ida Blumenfeld

by Mimi Blumenfeld

In loving memory of Thelma “Rose” Kanner

by Margot B. Friedman

In memory of Bernhard E. Weinstein

by Marsha and Leon Botkin Cantor Segal’s Mitzvah Fund In memory of Gary Matzner

by Barbara and Gary Davis

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TIDINGS | DECEMBER 2024

In memory of Gary Matzner In memory of Bernhard E. Weinstein

by Marilyn Mittentag and David L. Magidson Eisenstat Soup Kitchen Fund In celebration of Stephanie Rakofsky’s birthday

by Marilyn J. Dernis

In memory of Jimmie Reiter

by Elizabeth L. Landen In memory of: Jerry Locke Marcia Leventhal Gary Matzner Bernhard E. Weinstein

by Myra Locke

In loving memory of Rose Steiner Sternlieb

by Leslie Sternlieb

With great appreciation for the High Holy Day Honors

by Hilit and Alex Mechaber

In memory of Madeline Levine

by Carole Waldman

In memory of Michele Hassine

by Debbie and Jim Siegel

In loving memory of Rita Glickman

by Francine Horwich, David Weinstein, and Larissa

In memory of Selda Milton

by Julie and Gary Simon

In memory of Bernhard E. Weinstein by: Marilyn J. Dernis Melanie, Seth, Samantha, and Ross Rosen

In memory of Gary Matzner by: Debbie and Jim Siegel Julie and Gary Simon

In memory of Selda B. Milton by: Marilyn J. Dernis Marilyn Mittentag and David Magidson Melanie, Seth, Samantha, and Ross Rosen

In loving memory of Alfred Reby

by Julie Reby Waas

Goldberg Adult Education Fund In loving memory of Margot Stern

by Ruth Stern Harvey Miller Scholarship Fund In memory of: Shirley Blumenfeld Selma Heffler Morrie Kellman Marcia Leventhal Selda Milton

by Mimi Blumenfeld and Family In memory of Marcia Leventhal

by Sona Gardner Kalish Artist-in-Residence Fund In loving memory of Joshua Sirkin

by The Elkin Family LEV – From the Heart Capital Campaign In honor of Michael Spritzer’s 80th birthday

by Alyson and Dennis Ginsburg In honor of Gail Newman’s 85th birthday In memory of Bernhard E. Weinstein

by Donna and Mark Kass In memory of Lillian Katz In memory of Bernhard E. Weinstein

by Vicki and Hardy Katz

Linda Pallot Art Education & Enrichment Fund In memory of Bernhard E. Weinstein by the Joe and Susan Pallot Family Philanthropic Fund Margaux Early Childhood School Fund In loving memory of Margaux Renee Grossman In loving memory of Paul Ruttenberg

by Karyn and Stuart Grossman In memory of Gary Matzner

by Karen Rosen In memory of Joshua Sirkin

by Lisa and Gary Saul Marjorie Spritzer Caring Community Fund In honor of Irving Bolotin’s 92nd birthday

by Barbara P. Katzen In celebration of Mike Spritzer’s 80th birthday

by Arlene and Art Young Mel Harrison Library Fund A donation was made to this fund

by Mark R. Harrison/The Wagman Foundation Memorial Fund In memory of Freda Rosenberg In memory of Bill Rosenberg In memory of Alan Gardner In memory of Rose Gardner

by Sona Gardner

In loving memory of Marvin Levin

by Jeanette Levin

JUDEAGABLES.ORG

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In loving memory of Ezekiel Limmer

by Beverly Greenberg In memory of Viola Holzman In memory of Joseph Holzman

by Lucy and Alfred Holzman In loving memory of Frances Berkowitz

by Judy Jacobs In loving memory of Jeffrey Sanford Kaufman

by Areta Kaufman In memory of Morton Kobetz

by Susan and Steven Kobetz In memory of Marcia J. Koven

by Andrea and Michael Koven In memory of Josh Sirkin

by Pat Lieberman In loving memory of Emil Dumitrescu and Edward Lustig

by Irina Dumitrescu and Irv Lustig In loving memory of Julius Mittentag

by Marilyn Mittentag and David Magidson

Debbie and Gary Burman Gwendolyn and Garland Creighton Danielle and Marc Spiegelman The Dauer Family Foundation Kathy and Richard Dunberg Suzanne and Paul Fisher and Family Janice and Joseph Giancola Cindy, Jenny, Ryan, and Alex Goldberg Caroline Heck Miller Amy and Gregory Saphier Rosie and Dennis Schreier The Reiter and Soman Families Nancie and Robert Sturges Swan Lake/The Foster Company Cynthia and Andrew Varat In memory of Jimmie Reiter by: Mr. and Mrs. Keith Berk Bonnie Helman Tina and Neal Kurzner Candi and Barry Sharpe MENSch at Temple Judea In loving memory of James Reiter

by Nancy and Howard Adler

In memory of Harvey Muskat

by Kerry Muskat

Mildred Weissel Brown Refurbishing Fund In memory of Edith Lieberman

by Barbara and Ken Bloom

In memory of Richard Horwich In memory of Bernhard Weinstein

by Edith and Malcolm Neuwahl

In memory of Josh Sirkin In memory of Ronald Lieberman

by Judy Weissel

In memory of Bernice Bravman Gottlieb Lazere

by Laurie Richter In memory of Bernard Jacobson

by Lisa and Gary Saul In memory of Michele Hassine In memory of Selda Milton

by Cynthia and Andrew Varat In loving memory of Marcia Leventhal

by Francine Horwich, David Weinstein, and Larissa In memory of Maria Blumin by: Griselle Farbish Fanny and Marcos Kerbel In memory of Gary Matzner by: Melisa and Henry Adorno The Azari Family Cynthia Blanck 30 TIDINGS | DECEMBER 2024

Miriam & Gerald Barocas Leadership Endowment In loving memory of Mimi Barocas In loving memory of Gerald Barocas

by Debbie and Michael Gach In memory of Gary Matzner

by Karla Ebenbach and Edward Gross Pearl and Otto Delikat Holocaust Education Fund In loving memory of Joshua Sirkin

by Hollie and Alan Spade Rabbinic Endowment Fund In memory of Gary Matzner by: Karyn and Stuart Grossman Elyssa and Sam Lewis Sydney and David Schaecter

Rabbi Siegal’s Mitzvah Fund In loving memory of Esther Sandrew by the Ackman, Spirer, and Sandrew Families

L’Shanah Tovah

by Lynn and H. Lee Culbreath

In memory of: Eva Rae Solomon Ava Jaffe Esther Siegal Ed Siegal Stan Siegal Harry Hanauer Morrie Hollander Ron Lieberman

by Bobbie Siegal

In honor of Michael Bittel’s 70th birthday

by Philis and David Edelman

In loving memory of Harold Weinstein

by Marsha Warm

In loving memory of David A. Sommer

by Wendy and Michael Elkin and Family

In loving memory of Morton Weiner

by Cristina Rivera-Weiner and Jeff Weiner

In loving memory of Edward S. Feldman In celebration of Gail Newman’s 85th birthday In memory of Bernice Snow

by Arlene Feldman

In memory of Gary Matzner by: Debi and Gene Friedlander Maya and Jerry Greenberg Doreen Purce Monica and Rick Schatz Sandi Shevin Tracey and Stuart Waldman

In loving memory of Michele Hassine by: Patti Elias and Corey Hoffman Kali and Gal Bensaadon

In memory of Shirley Stoloff Goldfarb In honor of the High Holy Days

by Sona Gardner In honor of Karen and Richard Forster’s Anniversary

by Marilyn and Norman Goldberg In honor of Debbie and Jim Siegel’s 40th anniversary

by Marci and Scott Greenberg In loving memory of Shelly Guren

by Bonnie Guren With much gratitude for Rabbi Siegal

by Ossie Hanauer In honor of the naming of Maya Friedman

by Jim Kramer In memory of Harlan E. Sapero

by Renee and David Lieberman In honor of Michael Spritzer’s big birthday

by Gail Meyers In loving memory of Leona Siskind

by Judith Siskind and Kenneth Muller In honor of the naming of Leo Pearson

by Terri Pearson In loving memory of: Mel Rubin

by Lillian and Allan Poms

In memory of Ronald Lieberman by: Mimi Blumenfeld Shelley Kolber Lillian and Allan Poms In memory of Josh Sirkin by: Eddie, Lynn & Don Ginsburg, and Susan & Larry Morrison and Families Carole and Burt Redlus In memory of Sheldon Guren by: Susan and Boaz Ashbel and Family Karyn and Stuart Grossman Sydney and David Schaecter In memory of Bernhard E. Weinstein by: The Hesser Family Irene and Karen Kogan Vicki Pearlman Jonathan Awner and Carrie Steinbaum In honor of Gail Newman’s 85th birthday by: Jan Silberman and Ed Bierman Gail Meyers Marian and Harvey Waldman Sandy and Gene Sharkey In celebration of Barbara Katzen’s 90th birthday by: Dolly Harris Michele and Robert Stone JUDEAGABLES.ORG

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In honor of the High Holy Days by: Jan and Albert R. Cohen Jack Dresner Rabbi Fisch’s Mitzvah Fund In loving memory of Esther Sandrew by the Ackman, Spirer, and Sandrew Families In loving memory of Israel Stupnitsky

by Anonymous In loving memory of Michele Hassine by: Patti Elias and Corey Hoffman Kali and Gal Bensaadon In appreciation of Rabbi Fisch

by Marla Roth and Aaron Fisch In honor of the High Holy Days

by Sona Gardner In loving memory of Joshua Sirkin

by The Sirkin, Fetter, and Heckaman Families In loving memory of Dr. Stanley Jacobs

by Judy Jacobs In celebration of Gail Newman’s 85th birthday

by Sheilah Ginsburg and The Labbie Family In loving memory of Selda Milton

by Jamie Milton In memory of Bernhard E. Weinstein

by Judy Siskind and Ken Muller In celebration of Alex Rabinowits’ Bar Mitzvah

by Marcia and Guilherme Rabinowits In honor of their son and daughter-in-law’s wedding

by Rachel Rubin In loving memory of Leonore Shapiro

by Stanley Shapiro In memory of Joshua Sirkin by: Faith and David Mesnekoff Monica and Rick Schatz In memory of Selda Milton by: Barbara and Chet Peckett Rachel Spear Marjorie Wilkoff Shari Witkoff In memory of Jimmie Reiter by: 32

TIDINGS | DECEMBER 2024

Patricia Lieberman Renee and David Lieberman In honor of the High Holy Days by: Jan and Albert R. Cohen Jack Dresner Ray Berman Education Fund In loving memory of Joel Larry Rakofsky In loving memory of the 16 people named in the Yizkor Book of Memory In loving memory of Lawrence Gross Lane In loving memory of June Gross Slutsky In honor of the birth of Sheperd James Lyda

by Stephanie and Dr. Sanford I. Rakofsky Samantha Jane Kessler Preschool Fund In memory of Gary Matzner In loving memory of Roger Starner

by Katie and Mark Kessler Sheldon and Bonnie Guren Self-Esteem and Character Building Fund In memory of Bernhard E. Weinstein

by Michelle and Jeffrey Eisenberg In memory of Sheldon Guren by: Shelly and Steve Brodie Joan Fleischman and Jim Casey Laura and Phil Cathlina Sharon Rosselet Haas Gail Meyers Sheila Freed and Mel Miller Pat and Alan Rose Danielle and Marc Spiegelman Mimi and Bobby Stein Michele and Robert Stone Simcha Fund In honor of Zooey Kaplowitz’s 80th birthday

by Sona Gardner Terri Levan Katz High Holy Day Floral Fund In celebration of the marriage of Dani and Daniel

by Francine Horwich and David Weinstein Tikkun Olam Fund In loving memory of James Reiter

by Elisabeth Ehrich and Alan Berkeley In memory of Gary Matzner In memory of Harry Hanauer

by Dulce Blacher

In appreciation of Rabbi Siegal, Rabbi Fisch, and Cantor Segal

by Ileana and George Bronstein and Family

In loving memory of Hilda Seitlin

by Francine Horwich, David Weinstein, and Larissa

In honor of Wendy Robbins In honor of Jenny Snyder

by Ossie Hanauer

A donation has been made to this fund

by Trudy Fernandez and Linda Woolfson

In loving memory of Josh Sirkin

by Susan L. Kaufman

Women of Temple Judea In loving memory of Pauline Weintraub

by Marsha and Leon Botkin

In memory of Betty Rubin

by Lillian and Allan Poms

In memory of Jessica Rutter

by Melanie Helfman

In loving memory of Sonya and Richard Horwich

by Susan and Marty Rosenstock and Hilda Seitlin

A donation has been made to this fund

by Amy Leitman

In honor of the Tikkun Olam Fund

by Jean and Bill Soman

In memory of Bernhard E. Weinstein

by Nancy and Philip Leitman

In loving memory of Mark Black

by Francine Horwich, David Weinstein, and Larissa

In honor of Gail Newman’s 85th birthday

by Nancy and Philip Leitman

In memory of Gary Matzner by: Gail and Marshall Burack Jolie and Paul Cummings and Family Pam and Scott Lehman Susan Malca

In honor of WTJ and the organizers of the 11/7 event

by Marilyn Mittentag and David Magidson In memory of Jack Rubin

by Lillian and Allan Poms

In memory of Bernhard E. Weinstein by: Shona and Dan Blonsky Wendy and Michael Elkin The Sekoff Family In honor of Stephanie Rakofsky’s birthday by: Rita Diaz Faith and Richard Levine Unrestricted Endowment Fund In honor of Temple Judea, its clergy, Staff, and congregants

by Keith Chasin In loving memory of Bernhard E. Weinstein

by Heidi and Paul Feder Family In memory of Gary Matzner In memory of Harry Hanauer

by Claudia and Joe Greenberg In honor of Rabbi Siegal, Rabbi Fisch, and Cantor Segal

by Ossie Hanauer In memory of Jimmie Reiter

by Lisa and Chuck Noski In loving memory of Mimi Saxe

by Norman Saxe JUDEAGABLES.ORG

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Condolences Condolences to Ronald Leventhal on the loss of his wife Marcia P. Leventhal, sister of Phyllis Miller.

Condolences to Veronica Matzner on the loss of her husband, Gary C. Matzner, father to Ryan, Alexandra, Eric, and Ethan.

Condolences to the family of Phyllis Ehrlich on her passing.

Condolences to Francine Horwich (David Weinstein) on the loss of her aunt Alice Horwich, great aunt to Larissa Weinstein.

Condolences to Barbara (Kenneth) Bloom on the loss of her brother, Ronald Lieberman.

Condolences to Carolyn Sirkin on the loss of her husband Joshua Sirkin, father to Jill (Blain) Heckaman and grandfather to Tyler and Ryan.

Condolences to Ossie Hanauer on the loss of her husband, Harry Hanauer.

Condolences to Jamie B. Milton on the loss of her mother, Selda B. Milton.

Condolences to Bonnie Guren on the loss of her husband Sheldon “Shelly” Guren, father to Michael (Adriana) Stein and grandfather to Joshua and Rachel Stein Condolences to David Weinstein (Francine Horwich) on the loss of his father Bernhard E. Weinstein, grandfather to Larissa Weinstein.

Condolences to Sandra Goldstein on the loss of her husband Julian Goldstein.

Condolences to Judy (Scott) Ackman and Mollie (Richard) Spirer on the loss of their mother, Esther Sandrew.

Condolences to Amy Reiter on the loss of her husband Jimmie Reiter, brother to Sheila Freed.

Condolences to Gaby Enser Tangir (Ariel Tangir) on the loss of her father Ramón Enser, grandfather to Eitan and Matias Tangir.

Condolences to Norma Saxe on the loss of his brother-in-law Floyd Philip Schultz, uncle to Jackie and Rick Zelman and great uncle to Jenny and David Zelman.

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TIDINGS | DECEMBER 2024

End of Life Planning At Temple Judea, we understand the importance of planning for the future and ensuring peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Let us guide you through this meaningful process with compassion and care.

Learn how we can assist you with: • Cemetery Plots • Funeral Plans • Cemetery Completion Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way.

For more information, contact Executive Director, Sharon Israel Moskovitz s.israel@judeagables.org 305.667.5657

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TIDINGS | DECEMBER 2024

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TIDINGS | DECEMBER 2024

Bill A. Bermont Managing Director

5500 Granada Boulevard Coral Gables, Florida 33146