Chai 5 Tribute Book

CELEBRATING RABBI ARI AVERBACH’S FIRST 5 YEARS AT TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM

Mazel Tov on reaching this incredible milestone—five years as a rabbi at Temple Etz Chaim! We are so proud of the dedication, wisdom and compassion you bring to your work. Over the past five years, you’ve touched countless lives, building meaningful connections, leading with integrity, and enriching the spiritual journey of the entire community.

Your ability to inspire, guide, and create a sense of belonging is truly remarkable. Whether through your thoughtful teachings, comforting presence, or vision for the future, you have made Temple Etz Chaim a home for so many. As your family, we are in awe of your unwavering commitment to your faith, values, and the people you serve. May this milestone be a reminder of all you’ve accomplished and a steppingstone toward even greater achievements.

With all our love and pride, Mom and family

Dearest Rabbi Ari, We so appreciate all that you are doing for our community and wish you many, many more blessed years as our Rabbi and friend.

With love and appreciation, Betty and Bob Zonshine

Dear Ari and Vanessa, Congratulations and Mazel Tov on your 5-year milestone with TEC! Ari, you bring so much joy and inspiration to people within and outside the temple. You are genuine, caring and hardworking and we are amazed by your leadership and chutzpah!

Vanessa, you are an incredible wife, mom and teacher and we know you are a source of inspiration and positivity at the temple. We are sending an abundance of love to you both, Paige, Shai and Isaiah.

Love Always, Jody, Darin, Paxton and Ethan Guthrie

We could not have asked for a better brother, brother-in law, uncle and Rabbi. You are the epitome of a kind heart with wisdom and good craic!

We love you, The Greene Family (Darren, Zavi, Brayden, Blake and Boris)

Rabbi Ari, We are proud of you...always!

Your Loving Cousins, Janice, Benny, Yoni, Devi, Sami & Rachel (Kamenir-) Reznik

Rabbi Ari, Mazel tov on five eventful years at our temple and best hopes for many more.

Steve and Suzanne Plotkin

RABBI AVERBACH, THANK YOU FOR ALL THAT YOU DO FOR OUR CONGREGATION AND FOR OUR COMMUNITY. YOUR HUMOR, KINDNESS AND CARING WAYS MEAN SO MUCH. YOU ARE A BLESSING.

CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR 5 YEAR ANNIVERSARY! WE ARE SO LUCKY TO HAVE YOU AS OUR RABBI. LOOKING FORWARD TO MANY MORE YEARS. KAREN AND MICHAEL ROBERTS

MERRILL AND STEVEN KAMINSKY

Rabbi’s Friday Morning Class

What started with 2 of our sisters meeting with Rabbi Ari to learn for conversion has grown to 40 plus women who meet weekly for learning and fun. Rabbi, your ability to share Torah, which can be difficult to teach, combines learning with laughter. The women in our class have formed a unique bond and many would not have met or gathered without this amazing class. We appreciate you making time for us every week, given your very busy schedule, and we appreciate the time you spend preparing for this wonderful experience.

With Much Gratitude, Your Friday Morning Class

Rabbi Ari, We have really enjoyed these past 5 years. You have provided inspiring sermons, delightful humor, and interesting women’s class and Men’s Club talks. We enjoy watching your family grow and participate in Temple events. You have supported us in times of need and truly appreciate it. We are thrilled that you are here.

Sheri and Jeff Schoenwald

Dear Rabbi Averbach,

Dear Rabbi Averbach,

Mazel on your 5th year of exemplifying excellency at TEC. We love being a part of your community and seeing you at Hebrew School. We also love our neighborhood Rabbi sightings! Where will we see our Rabbi next?! Thank you for your kindness and compassion. Your cheerful smile, witty humor, heartfelt knowledge and positivity are always appreciated. Thank you.

On behalf of all Lubetkins-mainly the ones at TEC-we wish you a hearty Mazel Tov, Thanks and congratulations for five incredible years as our Senior Rabbi.

Love, The Vener Family (Mike, Ashley, Jacob, Elizabeth)

It has been a joy getting to know you and work with you. Your spiritual guidance and kindness have been inspirational to our family and to our congregation. Thank you!

Best, Lori & Dan Lubetkin

L’Dor V’Dor

Mazel Tov on your first 5 years! We have enjoyed every minute.

Our friendship grows by four generations

We look forward to many, many more years with you at TEC.

From Generation to Generation

GENERATION I Thank you to Harold & Evelyn Greenberg and Betty & Jack Chislov for passing on our Jewish customs and heritage to the next generations GENERATION II Lauri & Steve Arons Rhonda Averbach GENERATION III Rabbi Ari & Vanessa Averbach Andrea & Neal Arons Michelle & Chris Welch GENERATION IV Paige, Shai & Isaiah Scarlett, Brielle & Reed Megan & Amelia Rabbi Ari, with your guidance, love and teachings, this legacy of friendship will continue for generations to come.

Best wishes on 5 years at TEC & our wishes for many more amazing years.

Lauri and Steve Arons and Family

Your friends, Debbie and Les Feldman

LOOKING FORWARD TO MANY MORE YEARS OF YOUR INSPIRING THOUGHTS AND INSIGHTS. WISHING YOU ALL THE BEST FOR A BRIGHT FUTURE. Nina and Larry Wallach

You are the best Rabbi ever!

Mike and Miriam Carmona

Thank you for enriching our hearts, souls, and lives.

One is never too old to learn from the young.

Alan and Susan Flaschner

FROM A YOUNG BOY GROWING UP DOWN THE STREET FROM OUR FAMILY IN AGOURA HILLS, WITH YOUR FAMILY ALSO BEING MEMBERS OF TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM TO NOW BEING THE RABBI THERE. WHAT A BLESSING FOR ALL OF US. SINCERELY, LINDA AND MARK WOLFSON AND FAMILY

We are so proud to call you our rabbi. You model middot. You build community. You challenge our thinking.

All of this is done with loving kindness.

A huge yasher koach and b’hatzlacha for the coming years and beyond.

RICHARD ENGLER & ELLEN ZUCKER

I like to say, “you are my Rabbi.” You are a remarkable teacher, a spiritual leader, and a friend. I love knowing I can continue to learn and grow spiritually with you. We are all blessed with you and your wonderful family.

Patty Kaye

Mazel Tov to our dear Rabbi Averbach!

We honor you for your dynamic leadership and extraordinary dedication to Temple Etz Chaim. Daily, through your acts and deeds, you motivate and inspire others.

You have made a difference in building our Thousand Oaks community!

YOU are a mensch and our role model!

We feel so blessed to be able to call you our Rabbi and our Friend.

With our respect and affection, Laurel and Ken Warner

Mazel Tov on 5 years! Here’s to 50 more! We are so fortunate to have you & your family at TEC, and in our lives.

Love, The Garelik Family

Today, as we celebrate your remarkable five-year journey with us, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for all that you’ve brought to our community.

These five years have been filled with blessings, growth, and a deepening of our spiritual lives—all thanks to your unwavering commitment, thoughtful guidance, and profound knowledge.

In times of celebration, you are there to uplift us with your joy. In moments of struggle, you offer comfort and support that brings us closer together. Your patience, warmth, and tireless devotion to the welfare of this synagogue and its members have not gone unnoticed, and we are forever grateful for the love and care you give us.

With Gratitude, Ruth & Glen Rose

Mazel Tov Rabbi Wishing you and your family good health and happiness.

May Etz Chaim continue to grow under your guidance!

Mark and Pam Katz

Congratulations and Mazel Tov Rabbi Ari on a wonderful 5 years!

Kol Hakavod Inez, Mark, Hannah, Aaron Zucherman

Rabbi Averbach, We are so grateful that 5 years ago you came into our lives, and the lives of our entire congregation! You have changed all our lives for the better (that’s a big understatement)!

There are not enough words to describe the positive effect you have had in helping to bring yiddishkeit and holiness into our lives. And helping to bring us closer to G-d!

Thank you so much for everything you do!

Kol Hakavod!

Ellen & Andy Smith

Yasher Koach and congratulations on your five years of outstanding leadership for our Temple. We wish you and your beautiful family many more years of happiness and fulfillment among our Temple Etz Chaim family.

Rabbi Richard & Linda Spiegel

We feel extremely fortunate to have you as our rabbi. Your biblical expertise often wrapped in a stand-up comedy delivery is so refreshing and fun.

On a more serious note, Jack and I are grateful for your support during some difficult times. You are a kind, wise and generous person.

Congratulations on your 5th anniversary at TEC. We are proud to call you our rabbi.

Warmly, Jack & Judy Gindi

Mazel Tov Rabbi Ari!!

Kathy and Larry Levit

Dear Avi Averbach — our wonderful Rabbi, It goes without saying how much both our families love you and how grateful we are for your service as our Rabbi for the last 5 years. It goes without saying how much we appreciate your thoughtful, candid, and inspiring sermons, always leaving us pondering the topic and sharing it with friends and relatives.

It goes without saying how kind, considerate, and loving you are to all members of our Shul. You make everyone feel “at home” as you walk down the aisle with your warm smile, shaking hands, hugging and welcoming all congregants.

It goes without saying that you include all members with honors at the Bimah, letting them know that they

matter and are also an important part of Temple Etz Chaim. It goes without saying that you extend a hand of friendship and love to all congregants, both long time members and those that are new, those that are young and others not so young. It goes without saying how much you are admired and loved by ALL including extended family members It goes without saying Mazel Tov to a wonderful person, a friend to all and most importantly a kind and considerate Rabbi who has earned the affection of his congregants. It goes without saying: WE LOVE YOU RABBI ARI AVERBACH!!

With love, David and Anita Heber Ariella and Randy Rutschman

Dear Rabbi Ari,

Rabbi Ari,

How welcoming you are to everyone who walks through our temple’s doors.

Your sermons and interactions with our congregants have greatly enhanced our worship experience.

Thank you for making Torah Class a truly fun and inspiring part of our lives.

Thank you for showing us how seeking holiness through Jewish learning can be so spiritually uplifting!

May our synagogue continue to grow and be inspired by your leadership.

Marc and Carole Firestone

Drs. Beth and Israel Perel

The Religious School Staff wishes Rabbi Averbach a huge Yasheer Koach for five wonderful years. We appreciate your support and kindness in everything you do for our students, parents and all of us. Here’s to many more years.

With love, the TEC Religious School Staff (Not Pictured: Karen Garelik, Lior Yakov, Steve Ormond, Hazzan Noam)

Dear Rabbi Ari, We are so proud that you are part of our family and are thrilled to be a part of your larger community as well.

We wish you many more years of continued success!

Love, Barbara & David

Your dedication, leadership, and heartfelt warmth keeps us connected to our synagogue each day.

Thank you and Yesher Koach!

Bill and Cyndy Koepcke

Thank you for an excellent first 5 years.

Cathy Sternstein

Mazel Tov and thanks to you and your family for your 5 years of service to our community. We wish you many more. Have a Happy, Healthy and prosperous New Year!

Robert Peisner & Family

Dedicated by Zane Averbach: Poem by Rabbi’s (Ari Averbach) Rabbi (Harold Shulweis)

Love, Papa & Deborah

Baby Ari

Thank you for your ongoing dedication to our congregation. You have been a source of comfort, guidance and humor during both difficult times and joyous times.

We are so fortunate to have you as our Rabbi. We appreciate everything you do for our community every day.

Warmly, Felicia, Ian, Rebecca and Alie Toporoff

We are filled with gratitude and joy as we honor

Rabbi Ari, who has been an integral part of our community since we first moved to the Conejo Valley and joined TEC. His relatable, approachable, and genuinely welcoming spirit has touched everyone in our congregation, creating a sense of belonging that we cherish deeply. We are excited to share many more meaningful moments ahead.

Thank you, Rabbi Ari, for your unwavering dedication and the countless ways you enrich our lives!

The Israels (David, Sandi, Leah & Shayna)

Rabbi, You have been very inspirational since your arrival. Best wishes to you as you continue at TEC. Fran Curtis

We Appreciate You! You’re a wonderful man, friend, Rabbi, mentor.

With Love, The Ratzans and Wanks

Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks said, “Faith is not certainty; it is the courage to live with uncertainty....” ...And yet the members of our Shabbat-Morning Study Group and our families are certain that we will continue on our quest for understanding and are ever-grateful for the constant encouragement and guidance given to us by our Dear and Erudite Rabbi Averbach.

From Pirke Avot: “Make for yourself a teacher, acquire for yourself a friend, and judge each person according to their own merits.”

Many Thanks, Rabbi!

The Families Axelrad, Hops, Katz, Schoenkerman, and Sommerfeld

For five great years, the rabbi strives To guide the souls and help them thrive.

In sacred halls, where prayers arise, He helps the weary find their ties.

Through trials, struggles, pain, and strife, He shows them how to live their life.

From ancient texts, he helps derive A light to help the heart survive.

Each day he gives his spirit to A temple strong, both kind and true.

Thank you Rabbi Ari, for 5 wonderful years.

Looking forward to decades more!

All our best, The Arons Family (Neal, Andrea, Scarlett, Brielle, and Reed)

Mazel Tov Rabbi Ari for five years of service at Temple Etz Chiam.

We are very pleased!

The Freeman, Stock & Laughrey family

Thank you Rabbi Averbach for all that you do! We appreciate you marrying us (in the trenches of 2020) and for always being a welcoming and warm presence around school. We look forward to more special moments ahead with our boys (from baby namings to Bar Mitzvahs)! We feel lucky to have you in our lives!

The Waters Family (Adam, Michelle, Jonah & Bennett)

Rabbi, thank you for leading such a welcoming and supportive Jewish community. We are so grateful to you, especially this past year when we needed it most! Mazel Tov on 5 years!

The Merjan Family

How lucky we are to have you as our Rabbi!

You are there for us in times of joy such as our sister Joanie’s marriage to Marvin.

You are there for us in times of concern and sorrow such as when Paul Kessler was killed in a protest supporting Israel.

Well....you are really there for us “ALL” the time.

Mazel Tov on 5 years at Temple Etz Chaim.

Todah Rabah, Sandra Reuben and Kenneth Marks

Mazel Tov, Rabbi Averbach!

We are truly fortunate to have you as our friend and Rabbi. Over the last five years, you have poured your heart and soul into making TEC the best it can be.

You’ve guided us through a pandemic, a building remodel, and countless services and programs, all with incredible Ruach!

Your unwavering attention and care, as well as your dedication to helping those in need with both spiritual and emotional guidance, have fostered a warm and welcoming synagogue for all. Your tireless work and commitment to improving the world around us are evident in everything you do.

You go above and beyond, ensuring that every aspect of TEC thrives and that no one is ever left without the support they need.

Your dedication and enthusiasm are an inspiration to us all.

Here’s to many, many more years at TEC! Yasher Koach, Joyce and Leo Bronstein Sharon, Jeff, Makayla, Devin, and Liam Landes Tracy, Matt, Dylan, and Ryan Sanders Kathryn and Jonathan Bronstein

Rabbi Averbach, Thank you for five years of faithful service to Temple Etz Chaim. We look forward to the next five!

SINCERELY, STEPHANIE & JONATHON WOLFSON (SARAH, MICHAEL, SHILOH & WYATT GOLDEN)

Over these past five years, you have strengthened our TEC community with your leadership, wisdom, kindness, good humor, optimism, respect for all and deep love of Judaism. What a joy it has been to learn from you, work along side you and have you as our spiritual leader. We are grateful for the passion and love that you share with our TEC community (not to mention your witty humor!) and are so happy that you found your way home!

Mazel tov!

Susan and Dan Kane

“Find yourself a teacher, acquire yourself a friend” - Pirkei Avot 1:6 Thank you for being a teacher and friend of the Simpson family!

Mazel tov and Yasher Koach on 5 years of meaningful service to the Temple Etz Chaim community. We look forward to many more years of your inspiring spiritual leadership!

Myles and Gail, Ian and Sara, Howard and Jessica, Eric and Jenn, and Jack, Ari, Luke, Micah, Avi, Lilah, Sophie, Penny and Simone Simpson.

Dear Rabbi Ari, As we celebrate your fifth anniversary at Temple Etz Chaim, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the privilege of working alongside you. Over my 27 years as a piano accompanist and musical director across synagogues worldwide, working with you has been truly unique.

Your leadership is marked by an effortless flow, creating meaningful and natural connections during services. It reminds me of Wu-wei, the philosophy of letting things happen organically.

With your charisma and thoughtful approach, you guide the community into a space of belonging, much like singing under a starry campfire sky—simple, genuine, and deeply inspiring.

On a personal note, my whole family joins me in this gratitude. Your warmth and the way you embrace and welcome my children, Kayla and Samuel, each Friday evening means the world to us. These moments of joy and connection are gifts we treasure deeply.

Thank you for your leadership, kindness, and the meaningful space you create for us all.

With much appreciation, Mariano Dugatkin, Music Director & Pianist

Dear Ari, Congratulations!

Love, Aunt Corky and Uncle Don

Mazel Tov on your 5-year anniversary with Etz Chaim Synagogue. from the “new kids on the block.” All the best for many more years.

Thank you for the energy, enthusiasm and wisdom you have brought to Temple Etz Chaim. Looking forward to many more years of your insightful leadership.

Sol and Jackie Rosenblatt

All the best, Lynne & Elliott Smith

Dear Rabbi,

Dear Rabbi,

Thank you for the godliness you bring to our synagogue, for your teaching, for the laughter and friendship you bring.

Congratulations to you! We can’t imagine TEC without you. Your smile, strength and caring vibe (Logan said vibe) are appreciated.

You made Logan’s Bat Mitzvah one of our favorite memories.

Nomi Freed

Thank you, Heather, Matthew and Logan

You are a blessing to us all.

Dear Rabbi Ari, Mazel Tov on 5 years! We want to thank you for all you have done for our family!

From being a mentor and friend to both Kira and Milena to inspiring our family member to convert to Judaism, you have meant so much to our family in so many different ways.

I don’t know of any other Rabbi who can relate to both adults and kids alike, with your humor, your meaningful words and your unique ability to connect with people on every level. We appreciate the time you spend with our kids who are getting older and facing a tough world.

Your perspective and conversations around various topics discussed in confirmation has made an impact on our kids. Your involvement at Camp Alonim has made Judaism more of a home. We are so lucky to have you as our Rabbi and we truly appreciate you and the impact you have on our family.

Thank you for taking the job! ;) We love you and look forward to another 5+ years of success and matcha outings!

All our Love, Chad, Lorie, Kira and Milena (your best friends!)

Mazel tov Rabbi Ari on your first 5 years leading Temple Etz Chaim! Thank you for your leadership, wisdom, inspiration, devotion, kindness, humor and enthusiasm. With gratitude and warmest congratulations, Steven, Monica, Marissa and Ethan Borochoff

MAZEL TOV, RABBI AVERBACH! WE ARE SO FORTUNATE TO HAVE YOU. IT HAS BEEN AN UNEXPECTED PRIVILEGE TO WORK WITH YOU AND KNOW YOU SO WELL. THANK YOU FOR BRINGING YOUR WARMTH, COMPASSION, ARTICULATION AND BRILLIANCE TO OUR BIMAH AND COMMUNITY. Eric Feigenbaum

Mazal Tov on your five years with Temple Etz Chaim.

Chuck and Penny Sterling

Congratulations and thank you! You have already made a tremendous difference to our synagogue and community. Here’s to the next 5 years!

Don, Carolyn, Jason, David, and Brian Zimring

RABBI AVERBACH WE ARE SO GRATEFUL FOR EVERYTHING YOU HAVE DONE FOR THIS SYNAGOGUE AND ITS CONGREGATION!!

KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK! LOVE, SHERRI AND MARC WERBER

Thank you for bringing new life and youth to our congregation.

Steven and Pamela Friedman

You inspired us through your sermons at myriad Shabbat and Holiday services. You made us laugh with your innate sense of humor. You elevated Andrew’s Bar Mitzvah into a joyful, meaningful occasion. You stood side-by-side with us through the most difficult week of our lives.

You continue to comfort us as we move forward through life. Thank you for being so wonderful to our family and for uplifting our entire community.

With Love and Gratitude, Josh, Debbie, Andrew and Talia Atlas

Dear Ari, Thank you for guiding and teaching our Temple Etz Chaim community during these past five years.

May you go from strength to strength.

Irwin and Ilene Barney

Dear Rabbi Ari, Mazel tov on your fifth anniversary at TEC! Thank you for all you’ve done for the temple, for our family and for being an advocate and supporter of the community garden.

Kol Hakavod!

Jennifer, Mike, Sophia and Katia Lysobey

DEAR RABBI, AS A TEACHER I THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO FOR OUR STUDENTS AND ALWAYS BEING READY TO HELP IN THE CLASSROOM. AS A CONGREGANT I THANK YOU FOR MEANINGFUL SERVICE AND THOUGHTFUL SERMONS. AS A STUDENT I THANK YOU FOR INTERESTING CLASSES AND FOR YOUR AMAZING INSIGHTS AND KNOWLEDGE. YOU ARE A WONDERFUL RABBI, TEACHER, AND HUMAN BEING. WE ARE SO LUCKY TO HAVE YOU HERE. TOBI RUTH AND JAY LOVE

MAZEL TOV ON YOUR 5-YEAR ANNIVERSARY WITH TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM! WE LOOK FORWARD TO THE CONTINUED GROWTH OF OUR TEMPLE COMMUNITY UNDER YOUR DIRECTION AND GUIDANCE. WITH APPRECIATION, MARK AND JULIE GOLDSTEIN

Mazel tov Rabbi Ari for five great years! Looking forward to many decades ahead with you on the bima.

With much appreciation and love, Maureen, Kevin, Rachel, Joey, Hannah, Jacob, and Rosie Axelrad.

I’m lucky to be able to call Rabbi Ari my rabbi, but I’m even luckier being able to call him my friend.

Over the years, Rabbi Ari has always been there for me providing me with advice and a friendly ear. I always enjoy our catch-ups over coffee or in between dances during Shabbat at Camp Alonim.

He’s been a mentor, role model, and friend for me and I’m incredibly grateful for everything he has done for me, my family, and the community. It’s clear the love, respect, and kindness he shows to everyone around him is shared by his amazing family-Vanessa and their kids who I adore and love getting to spend the summer with.

Thank you Rabbi Ari for everything and for being someone I know I can always turn to.

Love, Your best friend, aka Maddie Withrow

Mazel Tov on your 5-year anniversary!

Thank you for leading and inspiring us.

Marni, Elad, Ben, & Revi Goren

What we love about Rabbi Averbach: He’s enthusiastic He knows Jewish stuff, lots of Jewish stuff.

He’s funny.

Sees things realistically.

He cares.

Love, The Habibowitchs

Dear Rabbi Ari: Mazel Tov for your five-year dedication to Temple Etz Chaim.

You are an exemplary Rabbi who embodies many “Mussar” character traits in your daily life.

For example, “Humility” in which you always seek to learn and share wisdom from others; you do so with modesty. Second, “Righteousness” where you speak about things with certainty based upon your intensive research from diverse sources. Third, your “Calmness” and your ever-present humor, allows children, families and strangers to feel comfortable in your presence.

Lastly, “Generosity” because you are willing to share knowledge and to spend time to understand the feelings and perspectives of your congregants.

Achieving holiness, the goal of a life of Torah, is based upon the development of these and other Godly character traits. Your “Mussar” traits and personal ethics teach us how to live a better Jewish life. We are so proud of you.

Love, Ricki Averbach and Bob Freinberg

“A little bit of light dispels a lot of darkness.”

- Rabbi Zalman of Liad

Thank you for being a light to our temple community and to our family. Huge congratulations on 5 years at Etz Chaim!

Looking forward to the many years to come.

Mark and Heidi Birnbaum

Ari! What an Amazing Achievement!

Both Shawn and I are so proud to have had the chance to watch you grow into the incredible rabbi you are today. Seeing your journey from Chicago to LA has been a joy to witness every step of the way.

Your ability to lead with kindness, wisdom, and humor is something we all admire. You’ve not only built a strong and welcoming community but have also shown what it means to live with purpose and heart.

We’re so grateful to call you family and can’t wait to see all the incredible things you’ll continue to achieve. Here’s to you and this milestone.

With love, pride, and plenty of celebration!

Love, Ben & Shawn

Dear Rabbi Ari, The DVIR family wishes to congratulate you on your 5th anniversary at Temple Etz Chaim. You have made us feel so welcome and appreciated with your knowledge, candor, empathy and sense of humor.

The future of our temple is very bright with you around. We appreciate you!

The DVIR family, Hadar, Jack, Noah, Nathan, and Naomi

Dear Ari, We are so proud of all that you have accomplished at TEC. We love you, Bev, Tali, Matt and Kam, Sarah, Ryan and Eliana

Rabbi Averbach, Thank you for your kindness and guidance as we navigate everything from family milestones to pandemics to the current rise in antisemitism. We appreciate you and all that you do.

Sincerely, Paul, Toni, Taylor, Hudson and Cameron Friedman

With best wishes to Rabbi Ari and your beautiful family. We are happy to have you with us.

Alane, David, Eric, Jenna, and Aidan Shechter

Ari, Thank you for sharing your wisdom, your teachings and your friendship. It is an honor to have you as our rabbi.

Lorne & Caryl Label

Thank you for 5 wonderful years, Rabbi Ari!! You helped to make both of our children’s Bar/Bat Mitzvah special, beautiful and unique. We appreciate that you have helped to create a warm environment where all are welcome!!

With love and gratitude, Paula, Paul, Liam and Tali Lefko

Rabbi Ari,

Katya says she always enjoys getting to go up on the bima and help lead prayers with you during services. We all thank you so much for your kind, knowledgeable, and humorous presence. We appreciate how welcoming and open you are, and we are grateful to you for truly listening and taking the time to talk.

All our best, Joshua, Austyn, and Katya Schwartz

Rabbi Averbach, Thank you so much for your love, dedication, and service these past 5 years. You have played such an important part in so many important occasions for our family, both happy and sad, and your support has been so appreciated! We are so honored and happy to call you our Rabbi.

All our love, The Wachs Family

Congratulations Ari, Deerfield’s loss was definitely our gain. With all of the challenges of COVID and beyond, you have done a remarkable job. Not to mention the meaningful and entertaining sermons.

Julie & Ken Saul

Mazel tov on celebrating 5 wonderful years with Temple Etz Chaim!

We are all so blessed to have you as our religious leader and friend. Thank you for always being there!

With love, The Futterman and Tucker Families

Rabbi Averbach,

Thank you for your five years of dedication to Temple Etz Chaim. My term as President was a privilege in so many ways, not the least of which allowed for our close working relationship. I will always be grateful.

Temple Etz Chaim is a great community, and we are so lucky to have you. To many more years...

Shari and Ron Mark

To many more years of learning and celebrating Shabbats and simchas together.

Robin Oberman

Mazel Tov to Uncle Ari on his Fifth Anniversary at TEC! We love you, Sammy, Julie, Mia and Jordan

Rabbi Ari, On this occasion of your fifth anniversary at Temple Etz Chaim, it is with profound gratitude and heartfelt admiration that we celebrate your unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and the close bonds you have nurtured within our community.

As your partner on the Board of Trustees, I have been privileged to witness firsthand the depth of your commitment and the sincerity of your purpose. Your passion for the synagogue and its mission is inspiring, and your boundless energy and wisdom have enriched every aspect of our congregation’s life. From the smallest detail to the grandest vision, you have been a guiding light, ensuring that Temple Etz Chaim remains a place of spiritual growth, learning, and connection.

Your ability to weave tradition with innovation has breathed new life into our community. Through your insightful sermons, compassionate guidance, and creative programming, you have touched the lives of so many. Your kindness and understanding have fostered a sense of belonging, making everyone who walks through our doors feel valued and welcomed.

As a family, we have shared moments of joy, laughter, and reflection, and it is these connections that make our synagogue not just a place of worship, but a true home.

Mazel Tov on this honor - we are confident that this is just the beginning of many decades of smachot with you and your beautiful family!

With admiration and friendship, Cheryl, Jeff, Ben, Hannah, Jasper, Clyde and Hattie

Mazel tov, Rabbi Ari! We’ve known you since your high school days and it’s great to see that the promise you displayed as a teen has now blossomed into the compassionate Temple Etz Chaim leader that you are today.

Congratulations on these first five years. We’re confident that there are many, many more to follow!

Andrea and Nick West and The West Family

It’s so nice to know that whenever we go to synagogue, we’ll have a friend there. Your smile and personality make TEC warm and welcoming for everybody, not just us. And while we are happy just to share our community with you and your family, we are also grateful for your leadership as our Rabbi.

You are a great teacher, friend, and mentor for the whole congregation. We especially appreciate how you have made sure that services, and even the bimah, are an inviting, comfortable space for kids of any age. It’s not just that our kids like it — we also hope it encourages others so that there will be many young kids involved for years to come. Looking forward to the next 5 years!

With love, Rachel, David, Jacob, and Ethan Carmona

You have been a wonderful addition to Temple Etz Chaim. All the new programs and events you have added not only have contributed to the Temple’s place in the community but have enticed more people to participate on a regular basis.

Personally, you have reached out to us in a very welcoming way. That has been greatly appreciated. Although it is difficult for me to participate in Temple events because of our son’s situation it is nice to know that our Temple is thriving. Having been members since 1979 has been a true blessing for Rick, Julie, and me.

May thanks for all that you do for all the families involved.

Sylvia and Rick Koppel

Dear Rabbi you & your beautiful family have helped to bring a level of love & community to Etz Chaim that reflects the spirit of Judaism. Your neshama & genuine desire to bring this congregation into living a Jewish way of life is one we cherish & bless the day you chose to be our beloved Rabbi Ari. We adore you!

Love, Valerie Knight

Our family and our congregation have been blessed to have you join us, teach us, and lead us.

We appreciate your genuine, humorous, and thoughtful approach.

Sending you a heartfelt Mazel Tov on the first five years and wishing for many more years together in the future!

Love, The Kitzman Family

Thank you, Rabbi Averbach, for bringing so much joy, wisdom, humor, knowledge, support, and togetherness to the Temple Etz Chaim community.

Your services are meaningful, your teachings are engaging, and you give everyone a special place of belonging.

Your memory for birthdays is truly mind-blowing and dearly appreciated.

Mazel Tov to 5 years at TEC! We are so lucky to have you and your beautiful family with us and to be part of your congregation. L’chaim!

Lindsay, Mike, Nathan, Caitlyn, and Zander Halper

WE ARE SO GRATEFUL FOR YOUR LEADERSHIP AND FRIENDSHIP. WE LOOK FORWARD TO OUR FAMILIES GROWING TOGETHER IN COMMUNITY FOR MANY YEARS TO COME! Love, Emily Frydrych,

Sennen and Ailyn Feigenbaum

We are so thankful to have you as our rabbi!

The Sonnenberg Rhim family

Rabbi Averbach, Thank you for being a true leader, mensch, friend, and role model for our children, Temple Etz Chaim, and the Jewish community. Wishing you much Mazel Tov! and High Five! on your Chai Five.

Warmly, The Schwartz Family

Rabbi Ari, Thank you for all that you do for our community! You truly make our temple an incredible place thanks to your leadership!

The McCulloughs (Adam, Inbal, Ethan & Aria)

Mazel Tov on your first 5 years. We can’t think of a better possible fit for a Rabbi, and family, for our community and temple. We are so grateful you are our Rabbi! We look forward to sharing many more years and simchas together.

With love, Sandra, Jeff and Halston Landau

Rabbi Ari, Thank you! We love your enthusiasm!

We appreciate your breadth of knowledge! We enjoy your sense of humor! We look forward to many years of learning with you!

Roni and Marshall Rosen

Dear Rabbi Ari, Gary & I appreciate all you do.

From listening, caring and sharing your views.

You’ve brought joy and spirit these last 5 years.

We hope you continue for many more years.

Your family is special, your children are great.I hope to teach them all, I can’t wait!

For this sl anniversary we wish you well, Because of you TEC has reason to Kvell.

Shalom and Love, Randee & Gary Paller

Thanks for always being there for us and for adding us to your Havdalah family.

David & Rebeccah Schwartz

Thank you for five fantastic years with five fantastic Averbachs and thank you so much to our fine funny wise and wonderful Rabbi Ari! We love and appreciate you.

The Pullan Family (Esther, Colin, Shanna and Jonathan)

For five great years, the rabbi strives To guide the souls and help them thrive.

Rabbi Ari, from the moment we first met you, during our tour of the early childhood center, you instantly made us feel at home. You have been a part of so many important milestones for our family, from Jacob’s preschool graduation to Layla’s naming ceremony, and many others.

We feel so lucky to have you as a leader and a friend. Thank you for everything you do for our community. We look forward to sharing many more simchas with you and your family!

Through trials, struggles, pain, and strife, He shows them how to live their life.

The Marks Family (Eric, Elizabeth, Jacob, and Layla)

Thank you Rabbi Ari, for 5 wonderful years.

Looking forward to decades more!

In sacred halls, where prayers arise, He helps the weary find their ties.

From ancient texts, he helps derive A light to help the heart survive.

Each day he gives his spirit to A temple strong, both kind and true.

All our best, The Arons Family (Neal, Andrea, Scarlett, Brielle, and Reed)

Dear Rabbi Averbach, Congratulations on five great years as our Rabbi at TEC. Your efforts have been successful in making our synagogue an inviting and significant place in the lives of our members. Jeanne and I in particular thank you for your role in the marriage of Paige and Raymond Hay and your personal guidance in the marriage of Subham and Holly Maiti. Your calls on special occasions and during our periods of recovery are appreciated. We look forward to continued inspiration and guidance from you in the coming years. Many thanks for all that you do.

Best wishes, Jeanne and Irving Weiss

Rabbi Averbach, Congratulations on celebrating 5 years. All of the Bingo volunteers (and players) wish you many many more years of leading us.

TEC Bingo

Dear Rabbi Averbach, Mazel tov on an incredible five years at Temple Etz Chaim.

It has been a joy and a pleasure to work with you over these past five years. You continue to inspire our congregation and our community with your thoughtful, warm and kind spiritual leadership. We wish you all the best on this milestone and look forward to our continued relationship as your friends and colleagues.

SINCERELY, TEC’S BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Rabbi Ari, It is our honor and pleasure to work alongside you. Your vision, leadership, and mentorship make every day a joy and make our work environment a family environment.

Kol Hakavod and Todah Rabbah!

Cindy Goldberg, Joyce Bronstein, Debbie Blumenthal, Benny Sommerfeld, Keri Loventhal, Jessica Jacoby, Shane Silverstein, Jill Rosenberg, Sarah Karamas NOT PICTURED: Hazzan Noam Fields-Meyer Gould

Mazel tov Rabbi Averbach on your first five years at Temple Etz Chaim!

We appreciate how you have supported Men’s Club. We have enjoyed your participating in Men’s Club activities like sukkah building and watching football with the rabbis. You have enhanced our Sholar in Residence Weekends by guiding us in the selection of speakers and serving as moderator. Thank you for teaching so entertainingly at the Steak, Scotch and Torah in the Sukkah BBQ dinners and Jeff Finn Memorial Cigars and Talmud Dinners.

We look forward to ongoing learning and camaraderie with you.

!

Yasher Koach!

Temple Etz Chaim Men’s Club

Mazel Tov on your 5th anniversary with us!

Your unwavering dedication, wisdom, and compassion have not only deepened our connection to our faith but have also inspired us to grow as a community. Through your leadership, we continue to move forward with strength and unity, embracing the beauty of our traditions and the joy of Jewish life.

We are truly blessed to have you guide us on this journey.

With heartfelt gratitude, the Women of TEC

Congratulations, Rabbi Averbach, on your fifth

Thank you for 5 wonderful years of your leadership and friendship.

To many more years, Lynda & Gil Kessler

anniversary at TEC. Thank you for your teaching, your inspiration, and your dedication to our synagogue, our community and our family.

The Woods Family

RABBI ARI, THANK YOU FOR LEADING OUR CONGREGATION IN YOUR SPIRITUAL SERVICES. WE THINK YOU ARE TERRIFIC AND LOOK FORWARD TO YOU BEING AT THE TEMPLE FOR MANY, MANY MORE YEARS. Love, Ellen, Ronald, Logan and Taylor Stein

Mazel Tov to our wonderful nephew as he marks the completion of five years leading Temple Etz Chaim!

Aunt Sharon and Uncle Morris

Thank you Rabbi Ari! It has been five years since you stepped into his position of spiritual leadership, and I can still remember one of your first sermons… saying where there is goodness there is God. It rings with a truth that inspires me to try to see good everywhere.

The winds of current antisemitism challenge a Jew’s sense of security and basic belief, but I try to remember those words and keep them as a shield. The Conejo Valley has been lucky that you returned to your roots.

You brought with you your life experiences in the ordinary world as well as a theological student in Israel. Your outlook bubbles over with youth and enthusiasm. The way you capture and convey excitement for Judaism is inspiring for both young people and for my age group, the elderly.

Mazel Tov on reaching this plateau in your career. May you continue to lead with joy and strength for the next 25-45+ years. I am grateful for your wisdom and leadership.

Bonnie Rothman

The Dankberg Family

Myra Matlin

Andrea, Daniel, Shayna, Jenna, Bennett Weiss and Silvia Selzer-Shaff

Elissa Lazaru

Roee, Lei, Brendan and Wyatt Rubinstein

Lester & Wendy Halpert Joe & Terri Zwicker

Michelle, Josh, Ben, and Natalie Hopstone

Beth Meyer

Dana Torgan

Richard & Lisa Eidman

Michael & Toby Hopstone

Shirley Lipkin

Jonathan Hops

The Isaac Family

Gil, Cindy, Jared, Shai and Aden Goldberg

Tom Milhaupt & Melissa Cohen

Joel & Harriet Shrater

Carl & Linda Friedlander

Stan & Lynne Rosen

Judi Gill

The Simowitz Family

John & Evy McCauley