Tevet – Shevat 5781 January 2021

MLK Shabbat Friday, January 15th SEE PAGE 15 FOR DETAILS january 2021 Shabbat Services

FRIDAY, JANUARY 1, 2021 FRIDAY, JANUARY 22, 2021 In This Issue 18 Tevet 10 Shevat 6:00 p.m. Pre-neg 5:30 p.m. How ‘Bout Shabbat 6:30 p.m. Shabbat Services 6:00 p.m. Pre-neg Shabbat Services 2 6:30 p.m. Shabbat Services SATURDAY, JANUARY 2, 2021 Tu BiSh’vat 3 9:00 a.m. Study SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2021 10:30 a.m. Morning 9:00 a.m. Torah Study From Strength to Strength 4 10:30 a.m. Morning Minyan Parashat Vayechi 10:30 a.m. Bar of Lucas Levy Clergy Corner 5 Genesis 47:28-50:26 5:30 p.m. Bat Mitzvah of Haftarah Kings I 2:1-12 Dylan Berkowitz President’s Message 6/7

Membership 8/9 FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2021 Parashat Bo 25 Tevet Exodus 10:1 - 13:16 Youth Engagement Religious 6:00 p.m. Pre-neg Haftarah Jeremiah 46:13-28 6:30 p.m. Shabbat Services School 10/11 FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021 SATURDAY, JANUARY 9, 2021 17 Shevat Day School 12 9:00 a.m. Torah Study 6:00 p.m. Pre-neg 10:30 a.m. Morning Minyan 6:30 p.m. Shabbat Services Admissions 13 Parashat Shemot SATURDAY, JANUARY 30, 2021 Programming 14-16 Exodus 1:1 - 6:1 9:00 a.m. Torah Study B’nai Mitzvah 17 Haftarah Isaiah 27:6 - 28:13; Isaiah 29:22-23 10:30 a.m. Morning Minyan 10:30 a.m. Bat Mitzvah Tikkun Olam 18/19 FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2021 of Brianna Fields 3 Shevat 5:30 p.m. Bat Mitzvah Beyond the Curve 20 6:00 p.m. Pre-neg of Alexis Cohen 6:30 p.m. Shabbat Services Beth UMers 21 Parashat Beshalach SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2021 Exodus 13:17 - 17:16 Gators 21 9:00 a.m. Torah Study Haftarah Judges 4:4 - 5:31 10:30 a.m. Morning Minyan Auction 22/23 10:30 a.m. Bat Mitzvah of Sophia Braghin Sisterhood 24/25 5:30 p.m. Bat Mitzvah of Shira Rosenberg

Our Jewish Heritage 26 Parashat Va’eira Exodus 6:2 - 9:35 Give Miami Day 27 Haftarah Ezekiel 28:25 - 29:21

Mussar 28

Erev Tov/Jewish Voice 29 our advertisers Board Nomination 30 Chef Dreilinger, Catering...... 36 Friendship Circle...... 42 Current of Life 31 Bonds...... 36 TLC Family Care...... 42 Roberta Mandel...... 37 Paradise Properties, Realtor...... 43 In Loving Memory 32/33 Rita Diaz, Estate­­­­ Sales...... 37 Williamson Cadillac...... 44 Bea Citron, Realtor...... 37 ­Accessible Home Health Care...... 44 We Give 34/35 Professional Directory Listings...... 38 Bregman, Event Planners...... 45 Dr. Greg Ross, Orthodontist...... 39 Camp Coleman...... 46 Mazel Tov 35 Ilene Efthimiou, Realtor...... 39 Buchwald Jewelers...... 46 Goldman Residential, Realtor...... 40 Smile Miami...... 46 Professional Directory 38 Kitanim, Florist/Events...... 40 Careaga Plastic Surgery...... 47 Lenard, Pediatric Dentist...... 40 The Palace...... 48 Tracey Spiegelman, Realtor...... 41 Medicare Matt...... 41 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 27 6:00 PM

This Tu BiSh’vat, we’re celebrating the environment and getting healthy! Our TBAM PB&J (Plant-Based and Jewish) group in partnership with the Tikkun Olam committee invite you to a unique opportunity to flex your cooking skills as we learn more about the Jewish holiday of Tu BiSh’vat, which honors our relationship to the earth. Learn more about small changes you can make to incorporate a plant-based diet into your life, the benefits of eating locally, and how our Jewish tradition promotes environmentalism!

Cook along with us in small groups, or watch and enjoy our take on a classic Food Network show as we share ideas and best practices for easy, healthy cooking. Fun for the whole family!

RSVP for Zoom login information at www.tbam.org/chopped

Interested in being one of our lead chefs? Contact Andrea LeVine at [email protected] or 786.364.9418

Page 3 Commentator January 2021 • Page 4

From Strength to Strength Jeremy Barras [email protected]

The Power of Outreach The first outreach directors for the Jewish cause were feelings towards us, then we are missing a great opportunity and . The teaches that to be Jewish in their to teach them about who we really are. We are starting to see day meant simply to believe in monotheism and reject all such recognition come to fruition in certain parts of the Middle forms of idolatry. Abraham would speak to men and Sarah East. In places like the UAE and Bahrain, where mistrust and to the women, trying to educate those around them about the skepticism once existed between Muslims and , citizens of true nature of the Creator and how that Creator related to these countries are now getting to know each other, and they humankind. They struggled to get their message across far and like what they are discovering. Hopefully, this will continue to wide, but they knew that clear communication of their beliefs spread throughout the region. In our area, let us learn a lesson was essential. Since the Torah was given at Mt. Sinai, we no from the beautiful letter about Chanukah written by the local longer try to convince others to join the Jewish fold. As we Bishop. He got to know Jews, and he became their advocate. often say, we are not a proselytizing people. However, outreach Each one of us has a chance to influence those in our sphere to the non-Jewish world is as important today as it ever was. to learn about the goodness our tradition represents. Like Abraham and Sarah, we can each reach out to those around us Recently, a congregant sent me a letter written by a local and shine for them a bright light on the righteous majesty of Catholic Bishop to his congregation about, of all things, our Jewish tradition. Chanukah. He discussed how growing up in Connecticut he lived near the JCC and would spend a great deal of time L’shalom, there participating in their activities. As a result of the time spent there, he developed relationships with Jews, became familiar with the Jewish community, and learned about their Rabbi Jeremy Barras traditions. It is unlikely that he would have written such a meaningful and beautiful piece about the message of Chanukah to his community here in Miami had he not had those warm experiences at the JCC during his youth. When non-Jews who have little or no connection with Jews get to know us, then they learn about our true nature and real bonds can be formed. We learn in the Torah that when returned from exile living with his father-in-law Laban, he was worried that his brother Esau would be waiting in Israel to attack him. As the note, Jacob represents in the Torah the people of Israel, whereas Esau represents their adversaries. It is a very tense scene as Jacob approaches his brother expecting that violence is not out of the realm of possibility. In preparation for their meeting, Jacob sends ahead of him messengers bearing gifts in hopes of ingratiating Esau and tempering the hatred he had stored up for him over the past two decades since Jacob stole his blessing. When they finally meet, Esau is in fact transformed and the enmity he possessed for Jacob transforms to love. They embrace, and Esau shows Jacob love in place of hatred.

We can learn from this episode that our actions towards the non-Jewish community are important and can make a great difference. If we avoid them and assume that they hold negative clergy corner Rabbi Jaime Aklepi [email protected]

Who would not want a shot in the arm right about now? I to us today during the pandemic. In ancient Israel, people know I want one. It is 2021, and the prospect that a “shot used their flat roofs as another part of their home. They in the arm” in the form of a vaccine for the coronavirus is cooked on their roof, even slept on their roof. Naturally, more and more becoming a reality in the not-so-distant they needed a fence around it. Would you not put a fence future. (I wanted to write near future, but my pandemic around your pool? The law is stating the obvious—because fatigue got the best of me.) And even though we know in ancient times, as well as today, obvious is not obvious it is coming, we know that we will still be faced with for everyone. Therefore, an obvious example is used as many of the restrictions of our “new normal.” As a a law to be upheld itself and as an example that we are Jewish community, we have continued to be hopeful by commanded to protect ourselves from harm. And if we do gathering together—albeit remotely—for prayer, learning, not protect ourselves, we not only have neglected to fulfill socializing, and even celebrating new babies, B’nai a positive commandment, a “You shall…” commandment, Mitzvah and weddings. We have comforted each other but one has also broken a negative commandment a “You on Zoom funerals and shiva —experiences we shall not…” commandment. TheCode of Jewish Law ends could never have imagined a year ago. Jewish tradition is with the idea “The sages prohibited many things because a relevant tradition, and its customs and mitzvot are the of danger to a person.” requires us to take care foundations which continue to support us. Our obligations of ourselves physically and always is aligned with the are holistic. They are not only concerned with spiritual medical science that helps us stay healthy. What can be and divine matters, but with the physical body as well. so very helpful to us now is to embrace Judaism’s holistic approach to life. Let your heart, mind and body be guided, In the , the traditional Code of Jewish Law, uplifted, comforted and encouraged. Let Judaism be the the rules for putting a fence on the roof of your house “shot in your other arm.” are described: “It is a positive commandment to make a fence on one’s roof as it says, ‘lest anyone fall from Stay well, stay connected, stay safe! it.’ All that do not build a fence on their roof violate a positive commandment and a negative commandment. Rabbi Jaime Klein Aklepi As it says, ‘do not place blood in your home’”…Likewise, one has a positive duty to remove and guard oneself of any life-threatening obstacle, as it is said ‘beware and guard your soul.’ In this case, soul does not mean your spiritual soul, it means your physical self. These laws, written over 550 years ago and based on the Torah, speak

Page 5 Commentator January 2021 • Page 6

Message from the president Stuart Ratzan [email protected]

SACRED PARTNERSHIPS: THE SECRET TO INSPIRING LEADERSHIP AND ELEVATING COMMUNITY

What does it mean to be part of the Beth Am So where does it leave us? COVID or not, we have community? To be a member of the congregation? known for a long time that being an active member of And what does it mean to be a leader in this our community means giving, not just taking. It means community? To be nominated to serve on a committee, accepting the frustrations of COVID, whether that is remote on an auxiliary arm, on the Board, or on the Executive worship, severely restricted numbers at B’nai Mitzvah, Committee? temperature checks, quarantining of entire Day School classrooms, testing requirements, extra time in carpool Beth Am is a vibrant and thriving community. As lanes or imperfections in programming. Giving back you know, it is a , a Day School, a Religious means accepting these things, not by growing angry and School, a sport league, an after-school program, a demanding better service for me and my family, but instead center for adult education and a social center for our by understanding the limitations of modern life. Where community. Being a member of Beth Am means possible, giving back means offering respectful solutions receiving a wide array of opportunities to learn, to to make life better for all of us, and offering trust that the enjoy, and to grow. staff at Beth Am seeks to make our lives better, seeks to protect all of us, and is working diligently under trying But it also means giving back, and doing so with a circumstances to serve and please the community. certain grace, understanding, and respect. Our current Board of Directors and Executive Committee Being part of this community is like being part of a are among the most diverse and engaged groups I have large family, yes sometimes a dysfunctional one, but been around - this despite the fact that we have not yet a family, nonetheless. And that means having each met in person. Every meeting of the current BOD and other’s backs, helping (not hurting) each other, and Exec. have been by Zoom. Yet these groups intuitively when the chips are down recognizing and working understand their purpose, and their ability to participate toward what is best for the overall community as in making Beth Am better, whatever that means to each of opposed to the individual. them. I don’t know why this group is so unique, whether it is the virus, Beyond the Curve, or both. But today’s COVID19 has taught us the paradox of community. leadership understands the importance of exalting the On the one hand, it is the starkest reminder of our community above themselves. They strive to understand, connectedness. Any one of us can infect or be infected accept, and learn from different points of view, and to build by any one of us. And each of us must take precautions consensus to get things done. They are devoted to moving to protect ourselves and those around us. The simple our community into the future, more inspired and better act of wearing a mask and maintaining distance allows than before, and yet grateful and proud of how good things us to protect others and protect ourselves as well. The are and have been before. They respect the leadership of the virus does not care about our differences; it sees us all past as they work to provide equally strong leadership into the same. And yet, COVID19 forces us to isolate, to the future. avoid community and congregating, leaving us alone and separated, longing for community but repressing Leadership of a synagogue in today’s world requires our desire for it. the elements described above, but it also requires an acknowledgment that a synagogue, a Jewish Day School, a Religious School, and a community like ours, though it current Board, I see the appreciation for this concept, and often has business needs and business opportunities, is an ongoing commitment to nourish it fully. not a business. It transcends business. A synagogue like Temple Beth Am requires that leadership recognize and Barzilai adds, “No matter what type of leader you are – engage in Sacred Partnerships. According to the Union experienced or emerging, lay or professional – the people for ’s (URJ) 8 Principles that Drive Strong around you are more than colleagues and collaborators. Congregations, this means “there is no single person in They are your sacred partners and in relationship with the congregation capable of addressing our challenges. them, you will be able to inspire sacred action in your Lay leaders, professional staff, and clergy must work community.” closely, together,” to meet the needs of the congregation. At every step, being a lay leader at Temple Beth Am These are trying times, but Beth Am’s leadership is up requires respect, trust, honesty and compassion. We to the task. I see the future in our current Board of must all work with each other in such an atmosphere to Directors, and the future looks bright indeed. cultivate the ultimate mission of the enterprise: making life better for our congregants, our Jewish community and Happy New Year to all! our world. Tikkun Olam in the broadest sense. L’Shalom, The idea that our work requires partnerships, with staff, with clergy, and with each other, and the concomitant Stuart idea that such partnerships are sacred, are ideas that have shaped the glorious history of Temple Beth Am. They are the ideas that made Beth Am the nourishing place that embraced me as a child when I attended Day School here, and the ideas that, to this day, give me an unbreakable sense of comfort and belonging every time I step foot on campus.

In the words of Lisa Lieberman Barzilai, director of the URJ Leadership Institute:

“Respect, trust, honesty, listening and communication, transparency, confidentiality, flexibility, and reflection are the tools we use to build and nurture sacred partnerships. They all require a willingness from each person to be vulnerable toward others. Without these essential and interconnected components, fissures are likely to develop in the relationship. After all, how can leaders demonstrate respect if there is no trust or honesty in their relationships with others? It’s imperative that leaders be able to hear what others say, work to find common ground based on shared goals, and act to bring about an organization’s shared vision.”

As we move forward, out of COVID and into the promise and potential that fill our community, let us continue to add vital energy to the notion of Sacred Partnership. No matter what befalls us, working together in a sacred atmosphere that tends toward the divine will assure us the best chance at fulfilling our potential, as individuals and as a community. Throughout our community, and on our

Page 7 Commentator January 2021 • Page 8 Membership Rita Diaz Membership Director [email protected]

Friday evening January 29, 2021 6:00 p.m. pre-neg by Zoom 6:30 p.m. service live-streamed

Please join us for a special Zoom pre-neg presentation led by many of our Chavurah members. Be inspired! Hear how being in a Chavurah can enhance your life socially and spiritually. Immediately following, a special Shabbat service honoring our Chavurah members will be livestreamed for our entire community.

It doesn’t matter how old you are, whether you have children in Day School or Religious School, if you’re retired or just finished college…we have a Chavurah for you!

We have also launched Chavurot based on special interest! Our newest Chavurah, PB & J (Plant Based and Jewish) is open and available for our members to join and learn and enjoy at the same time!

We hope you’ll join us and learn more about how you can get more involved, and find the right Chavurah for you and your family.

Please RSVP to www.tbam.org/chavurahshabbat Questions, Call Rita at 305.323.9322

Chavurah Connection Committee Judy Cowan – Co-chair Flippy Tanenbaum – Co-chair Rabbi Jaime Aklepi • Rita Diaz -Staff Liaison • Carolina Gurland Andrea LeVine • Dan Levine • Michelle Sarason • Michelle Weber TEMPLE BETH AM HOW ‘BOUT SHABBAT “FROZEN” SPECIAL GUEST – ELSA

Friday, January 22, 2021 5:30 p.m. via Zoom A special musical Shabbat service led by our Rabbi Greengrass and Cantorial Soloist Jackie Berney.

Don’t miss out on hearing Elsa (our very talented Day School mom and Beth Am member Sara Berkowitz) sing the beautiful song, Let It Go and listen to the story of Elsa, Anna, Hans, and Olaf of Arendelle!

RSVP: www.tbam.org/frozenshabbat

Questions? Call Rita at 305.323.9322

Page 9 Commentator January 2021 • Page 10

Tamara Donnenfeld Director of Lifelong Learning [email protected]

This past November, I had the pleasure of participating in thebar mitzvah of Danny Mazer. I met his family when I first came to Temple Beth Am, and I have seen him, and his peers, grow their Jewish and Hebrew knowledge and become an integral part of the fabric of Beth Am and the Jewish community. It fills me with pride to see how well prepared our students are to lead services, be part of the minyan and act on Jewish values. Below you will find an excerpt of his D’var Torah. We have an exceptional team of teachers at Beth Am, but we also have the blessing to learn from our own students. Enjoy his wisdom.

My Torah portion, Toldot, means challenging to be spiritually connected to What this misses is that everyone would generations or descendants. I am proud another human being when you disagree likely agree to the slogan “All Lives Matter,” to be here today carrying forward my on all topics. But maybe it is just human but the problem is that it silences those commitment to Jewish life and to share nature, and we all need to work harder to who are trying to point out that there is words about conflict and reconciliation. understand different viewpoints. What if, inequality, and that while the idea is that all And let’s face it, what the world needs they just listened to each other? What if lives are treated with the same worth, there most, is to learn that conflict is ok and they learned from each other? What if they are policies that result in behaviors that reconciliation is possible, if we work just said, I’m sorry. make it seem as though black lives are not together. as important in the eyes of society. In the , Reish Lakish was a bandit My Torah portion is about the lives of twins who changed his ways when he met his If the two sides could listen to one another, Jacob and Esau. They had very different best friend Rabbi Yohanan. The two men they might be able to agree that where you personalities and strengths but both with were opposites, but they had the best are born, what family you are born into, qualities we can learn from. Jacob was friendship. From them, we learn how the skin you’re born into, your culture, all more introspective and mainly stuck to his important it is to get along with people who shouldn’t decide your future. tent, while Esau was an outdoorsy man who are different from you and have different lived off the land. Let’s just say, they didn’t beliefs. We also learn that forgiveness is an And so I have to ask, why don’t we just always get along! important part of a relationship. listen to each other? Are we incapable, or do we just decide our views are the only Later in the story, Esau sells his birthright This makes me think about the crazy events right answers, so instead, we decide to to Jacob for a pot of stew. Esau is so upset that are happening in our world right ignore words we find uncomfortable? So that he vowed to kill his brother Jacob. now. We are so divided in our beliefs that long as we do that there will be unnecessary we can’t even talk to people who think injustice and no reconciliation. When Rabbi Greengrass and I first differently than we do. We listen to people discussed the story, I kept waiting for that who already agree with us, and we allow We, as human beings, need to do better. moment of brotherly love where they would ourselves to think of people who think We are capable of better! As friends we reconcile, but it never came. For me, having different as evil or stupid. If Ruth Bader should forgive and say sorry. After all, we a brother means I always have someone in Ginsberg could be best friends with Antonin should not be divided, but united. Just like my corner, no matter the issue or the topic. Scalia, can’t we reconcile with others we in the story of Jacob and Esau, where two Although we disagree, we both know that don’t agree with? Scalia said it best: different individuals couldn’t get along, we we truly are there for one another. as people need to learn from them and do “I attack ideas, I don’t attack people.” the opposite. I feel disappointed that Jacob and Esau could not figure out a way to get along. And There is a movement, Black Lives Matter, We can be united, not divided; we should I truly do feel bad that they wasted such a that has proven to us, how our society overcome these obstacles with triumph great opportunity to be part of each other’s doesn’t treat black lives as having as much and victory and the other side should be lives. value as white lives - or it wouldn’t be respected. From respect, comes unity. necessary to say this. In response to this Although some say that opposites attract, movement, there is another movement that it seems not to be the case with Jacob says, “All Lives Matter.” and Esau. I can see how it would be BAFTY Calendar for January YERS Programming for January Sunday, January 10 at 11:15 a.m. Wednesdays, January 6,13, 20 and 27, 3:45-5:15 p.m. BAFTY 2 and 3 Religious School

Sunday, January 24 at 10:00 a.m. Fridays, January 8, 22, 29, 4:30-6:00 p.m. BAFTY 6 during Religious School 6th Grade Friday Track Sunday, January 24 at 11:15 a.m. Sundays, January 10, 24, 31 BAFTY K and 1 K-5th Grade 9:30-11:00am 6th Grade 10:00-12:00noon Sunday, January 31 at 11:15 a.m. BAFTY4 and 5 Mondays, January 11, 25, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Monday Night CHAI Mondays, January 11, 25 at 6:00 p.m. BAFTY Sunday, January 10 afternoon BAFTY78 Social Justice Teen Fellowship Saturday, January 23 at 1:00 p.m. Sunday, January 17 at 10:00 a.m. Family In-Person Program* CoExist Fellowship For families with children K-2 grade Baptist Church with Pastor Brooks RSVP required Limit to 10 families Wednesday, January 6 at 6:00 p.m. Shevet Achim *subject to change Wednesday, January 20 at 6:30 p.m. Rosh Chodesh

Attention 8th graders!

This semester, MNC will collaborate with other teen programs in Miami Dade to bring 8th graders together and learn about Jewish Philanthropy. 8th graders from Temple Beth Sholom in Miami Beach, Temple Sinai in North Miami Dade and Temple Beth Am will join to navigate and learn Jewish philanthropy. Jewish Teen Philanthropy is a powerful way to engage Jewish teens in meaningful action to change the world. It offers teens a concrete way to take action and effect change by utilizing the tool of philanthro- py. Teens make a difference for the causes they fund, they also learn leadership skills, explore the values that drive them, and make commitments for future action in their communities and beyond.

If you have not enrolled in MNC, but are interested in this semester course, please contact Tamara Donnenfeld at [email protected].

Page 11 Commentator January 2021 • Page 12 day school Nora Anderson Head of School [email protected] TBAM Day School Learns from Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sackszt”l

Last month the world observed the shloshim (30th day creating new solutions; learning on their own; and after the death of a person) of Rabbi Lord Jonathan working cooperatively. All skills and knowledge they Sacks zt”l (May the memory of this just person be will need as they grow in the 21st century. of blessing). I have been a “student” of Rabbi Sacks for many years—he captivated me when I spent a As a Jewish Day School, we are committed to a Shabbaton learning with him; a learned guy, immersed curriculum that integrates Jewish knowledge, values, in halacha (Jewish law) and keeping his Jewish life history, and tradition with science, secular literature, within the guidelines of - yet an and all fields of human knowledge. Our curriculum is open-minded leader who lived in today’s world, who meant to integrate both worlds in a way that moves understood that Judaism needs to be made accessible our students to action and to care for our community to all. In his own words, if we do not reach out to all and world at large. Jews, our light will be diminished. In Rabbi Sacks’ words, to be a Jew is to be asked One of my favorite learnings from Rabbi Sacks is to give, to contribute, to make a difference, to help his idea that every human being is like a letter in in the monumental task that has engaged Jews the Torah. If a letter is missing or damaged, then the since the dawn of our history—to make the world a whole Torah is not to be used. His point being that we home for the Divine presence, a place of justice and are all interconnected, and we need each other to be compassion, based on human dignity and the sanctity complete. We are to form relationships horizontally of life. To be a member of TBAM’s faculty and staff and vertically…meaning with our peers, friends, and means to ensure that we partner with our families to families as well as with previous and next generations. instill those values in our children’s education. To be That is the world he imagines to be a moral and just a student at TBAM means to learn and embrace those one. values so that their future is not only bright, but also full of justice, celebration, and care. In his short video, “I am a Jew” he states, “I am a Jew because I cherish the Torah, knowing that God May the lessons we learn from Rabbi Lord Jonathan is to be found not just in natural forces but in moral Sackszt”l continue to illuminate our school and world, meanings, in words, texts, teachings and commands, especially during these dark times. and because Jews, though they lacked all else, never ceased to value education as a sacred task, endowing Nora Anderson the individual with dignity and depth.”

At TBAM Day School we value the individuality and dignity of every child, and we are committed to the sanctity of teaching and learning. Despite the COVID19 pandemic, our faculty and staff have stretched to ensure that we reach every student, whether they learn remotely or in person. As an institution that values learning and growing, TBAM Day School faculty are committed to continue preparing our students for a bright future and for much more challenging work—for framing problems; finding, integrating and synthesizing information; admissions Cari Altman Dean of Admissions & Student Affairs [email protected]

VIRTUALLY! Temple Beth Am Day School Applications are now open at www.tbam.org/admissions

Apply now or contact us to schedule a virtual tour! 305.665.6228

AND THE PARENT AMBASSADOR COMMITTEE PRESENT... COCOA LOCO: An Evening of Chocolate Therapy with Cao Chocolates

Sunday, January 24, 2021 7:00 pm The chocolate is real, but the evening is virtual! $18 per tasting kit. Tasting kit pick up details will be provided to all who register. To register and receive Zoom log-in information please visit www.tbam.org/chocolate For questions, please email [email protected]

Page 13 Commentator January 2021 • Page 14 programming Andrea LeVine Program Director [email protected]

READING WITH THE RABBI Morality by Rabbi Jonathan Sacks Tuesdays 12:00-1:30 p.m. starting January 5

Our book club moves back to lunchtime as Rabbi Greengrass guides us in a discussion of the final book from the late Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, one of the most distinguished Jewish thought leaders of our time.

With liberal democracy embattled, public discourse grown toxic, family life breaking down, and drug abuse and depression on the rise, many fear what the future holds. In Morality, Rabbi Sacks traces today’s crisis to our loss of a strong, shared moral code and our elevation of self-interest over the common good. A major work of moral philosophy, the book provides an inspiring vision of a world in which we can all find our place and face the future without fear.

RSVP for Zoom login info at tbam.org/morality

Some of my best friends… don’t understand anti-Semitism.

Join Rabbi Aklepi in this three-session lunch and learn series in which we will unpack key challenges in the fight to raise awareness and call out anti-Semitism throughout society. JANUARY 13, 20 and 27, 2021 12:00 – 1:00 pm #Together  via Zoom Against RSVP to receive articles and Zoom link at www.tbam.org/bestfriends It’s 2021 and we’ve got a whole lot of livin’ to do! Support, encouragement, understanding, valuable ideas—get these and more at our Jewish Recovery from Addiction Support Group.

This group is for those in recovery, their family members, those wanting to learn more about recovery and allies. Sunday, January 24, 7:00 p.m. via Zoom Newcomers are always welcome and anonymity is observed. Call Rabbi Aklepi with your confidential questions 305.667.6667

RSVP to Mindy Robbin: [email protected]

MLK Shabbat FRIDAY, JANUARY 15 6:00 PM Preneg | 6:30 PM Service Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with Reverend Robert Brooks and our friends at St. Peters Missionary Baptist Church in partnership with our clergy in this virtual Shabbat service. As we continue to dedicate ourselves as a community to being actively antiracist, we honor the way Dr. King has inspired generations of activists to stand up for racial justice through words, actions, and leadership. www.tbam.org/mlkshabbat

We continue our MLK weekend celebration with a Day of Service on Sunday, January 17. Join our Tikkun Olam committee for a Donation Drop-Off to benefit Lotus House, Camillus House, and Chapman Partnership. See page 18 for details, including items for donation.

Page 15 Commentator

Doron Friedman: Discovery and Insight into a Long-Forgotten World January 10 at 10:30 a.m. via Zoom and tbam.org/streaming

The Jewish Genealogical Society of Greater Miami introduces us to Doron Friedman, an amateur historian who began investigating a treasure trove of family documents, photos and letters ranging from the late 1800s to the post war period, which had until very recently been hidden. He recounts the process of organization, documentation, human interaction and the domino effect of how one discovery led to the next, revealing fascinating historical first person accounts, ranging from the detailed experience of a Jewish soldier in WWI to present day interactions with the family of friends mentioned in letters over 100 years ago.

Judy Petsonk: The Century that Created the People of the Book January 24 at 10:30 a.m. via Zoom and streaming at tbam.org/streaming The first century BCE was a critically important time for world religion. The new Pharisee movement ignited the transformation of Judaism from a religion of animal sacrifice to the biblical based ethics-centered reli- gion of contemporary Judaism and Christianity. Yet it is a time about which most of today’s Jews know very little. Judy Petsonk’s new novel, Justice: Maccabees & Pharisees, chronicles a divided Judea and its impact on two intertwined families. The novel also gives a vivid picture of women’s lives in the Holy Land in the first century BCE. The conflict between the priest-king of Judea, Alexander Janneus, and the leader of the Phar- isees, Shimon ben Shetakh (both historical characters described in the Mishna), destroyed Shimon’s family but was part of the struggle to define a system of justice and law.

Kimberly Sheintal and Sylvia Gurinsky present Jews of Sarasota-Manatee January 31 at 10:30 a.m. via Zoom and tbam.org/streaming Kimberly Sheintal loves Sarasota, and she loves being Jewish, so writing the book Jews of Sarasota-Manatee came natural to her. Join Sheintal, President of the Jewish Genealogical Society of SW FL, and Florida historian, Sylvia Gurinsky, for a talk about how the Jewish people helped make Sarasota-Manatee so special.

We are, once again, indebted to the Jewish Genealogical Society of Greater Miami for bringing us this program.

RSVP online for all events at www.tbam.org/calendar Adult Reading Room Library events are coordinated by Etta Gold, Congregational Librarian. Contact Etta at [email protected] or 786.264.6543 MAZEL TOV B'NAI MITZVAH

SOPHIA EICHENWALD BRAGHIN JANUARY 16, 2021 Sophia is a 6th grader at Gulliver. There is music everywhere she goes. She loves singing, acting, anything Broadway, cooking, spending time with family and friends, especially when traveling. Sophia is kind and compassionate, smart, ambitious and very dedicated. Her parents, Nicole and Fernando and her sister, Isa are incredibly proud of her and cannot wait to see her lead the service together with Rabbi Barras, as well as read her Parshat and Haftorah. Sophia’s entire family is delighted to celebrate this special day with her.

SHIRA ROSENBERG JANUARY 16, 2021 Shira is an 8th grader at Palmetto Middle School. Her passion is soccer and she enjoys traveling, and spending time with friends, family and her Bernedoodle Rocksy. Shira loves being a positive role model for her brother, Jaron. Together they have formed a special relationship supporting one another in everything they do. Shira loves spending her summers at Camp Pontiac in Copake, New York. Her parents, Josh and Randi, are extremely proud of all she has accomplished and are excited looking forward to seeing her grow into a positive, beautiful, and kind young woman.

LUCAS LEVY JANUARY 23, 2021 Lucas is a 7th grader at Palmetto Middle School. Lucas loves sports and is a baseball player, and in particular a great catcher. He has also enjoyed playing lacrosse. Lucas spent some time this summer washing cars and has that entrepreneurial spirit. Aside from delving into DJ equipment and enjoying flight simulation at home, Lucas is inquisitive and most especially enjoys time with good friends, most of which he has known since kindergarten. His family admires his selfless attitude and is so excited to see him reach this milestone!

DYLAN BERKOWITZ JANUARY 23, 2021 Dylan is a graduate of Temple Beth Am Day School and is currently a seventh grade Honor student at Ransom Ev- erglades. She enjoys playing basketball, tennis, and lacrosse. She loves dancing and spending her summers at Camp Matoaka in Maine. Her parents, Jolie and Michael, and younger brother Jagger, are beyond proud of her and excited to celebrate this milestone.

BRIANNA FIELDS JANUARY 30, 2021 Brianna is a 7th grade honors student at Palmetto MS and a graduate of Temple Beth Am Day School. Brianna is always excited to learn math and robotics and is part of the Mad Scientists club at school. She enjoys all sports but is particularly passionate about playing softball with her Miami Stingrays teammates. Brianna plays the piano and is learning to play the trumpet in the Palmetto MS band. Brianna loves spending time with her family and friends. Her parents, Cindy and Dan, and her siblings, Megan, Brandon and Michael are very proud of her and look forward to celebrating this special day with her.

ALEXIS COHEN JANUARY 30, 2021 Alexis is currently a 8th grader at Palmetto Middle School and a graduate of the Beth Am Day School. She is part of the National Junior Honor Society in addition to being an amazing athlete. Alexis is passionate about basketball, tennis and dance. Alexis loves spending time with her friends and family. For her Mitzvah Project, Alexis collected diapers for the Miami Diaper Bank and held a fundraiser at Chilln Nitrogen Ice Cream. Her parents, Michelle and Stephen, and big sister, Emily, are thrilled and excited to celebrate her upcoming Bat Mitzvah!

Page 17 Commentator January 2021 • Page 18

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year! The Tikkun Olam Committee wishes everyone a healthy 2021, and we hope that this year brings joy and wholeness to all. We cannot thank you enough for your constant support and generosity to our community - the most recent example being the JAFCO Chanukah Gift Drive.Thank you toMelissa Ginsburg for taking the lead and ensuring that this virtual gift drive was a success. Beth Am donated over 200 gifts for the children served by Jewish Adoption and Family Care Options, and, as always, when we give, we receive. Here is one family’s experience that we wanted to share:

This was really beautiful. My family and I just sat around the kitchen table and went through the JAFCO wish list. Each of us picked a child whose gift resonated with them and we added it to our cart and sent it to JAFCO. One night this we will not be getting gifts, but we plan on remembering the children we just bought gifts for and hope on that night they are enjoying our presents! Thanks for doing this, we are making this a new tradition going forward.

Hope you and your family are doing well and staying safe and healthy.

Lots of love,

Stephie Goldman MLK Shabbat - Friday, January 15 • 6:30 p.m. Even though we are still virtual, we are continuing our TBAM tradition of sharing this special Shabbat with Reverend Robert J. Brooks and our friends at St. Peters Missionary Baptist Church. See page 15 for details Drive-Thru Donation Drop-Off for Homeless Shelters at Temple Beth Am, Sunday, January 17 from 1:00-2:00 p.m.

MLK Day is a holiday (MLK Day of Service), but it is “a day on, not a day off.” We are encouraged to volunteer and improve our communities for everyone. Given that volunteer efforts are limited this year, we are going to be collecting items for homeless shelters in our community. Below is a list of items they need most. We will have a drive-thru at TBAM on Sunday, January 17 from 1-2 p.m., and we will be donating items to Lotus House, Camillus House and Chapman Partnership. Looking forward to seeing you then, and remember what Dr. Martin Luther King said – “Uncertain times while scary are also an opportunity for growth, meaningful change and healing.” We wish this for all of you in this new year.

Items for donation: • Diapers and baby wipes • Formula • Baby items of all types • Shoes of all sizes (Chapman will accept gently used – others should be new) including flip flops • New toiletries • Hand sanitizers, wipes, sprays and gel • Blankets, socks, hoodies, gloves, scarves (January and February do get cold, even in Florida) • Gift cards, if you prefer • Feminine products • Chapman puts together “Move Out Kits” for those transitioning to self-sufficiency. For those interested in making a private donation to Chapman, they ask for $200 for a box for a family of 4 which includes, pillows, sheets, towels, dinnerware, cooking utensils, etc. Join us on Zoom for a fun and delicious celebration of the holiday of Tu BiSh’vat - the “New Year of the Trees”! In honor of this environmental holiday, chefs will prepare tasty dishes using locally sourced ingredients, and our TBAM PB&J group (Plant-Based and Jewish) will educate us about the health and environmental benefits of a plant-based diet through a Jewish lens. See page 3 for details.

Other ways to celebrate this holiday with your family and show appreciation for nature: • Pick fresh fruits and vegetables at a local farm • Plant trees or seeds or start an herb garden • Build a birdhouse or hang a purchased one in a tree • Have a Tu BiSh’vat Seder and enjoy the Seven Species of fruits and grains grown in Israel – wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives, dates.

It is also traditional to have tastings of 3 categories of fruits or nuts: 1. Those with aninedible outer covering and edible inside: melons, nuts, pomegranates, coconuts, citrus, bananas, etc. 2. Those with anedible outside but inedible pit inside: dates, olives, plums, peaches, apples, avocados, nectarines, pears, etc. 3. Those that are entirely edible: berries, figs, grapes, etc.

LAUNCH OF EDIBLE GARDEN FOR TU BISH’VAT We are working on creating an edible garden right here on our campus! Opportunities available for individuals and groups to take “ownership” over one or more beds! We would love to hear from you if you are interested in participating.

Contact Greg Frankel: [email protected]

Page 19 January 2021 • Page 20

IN TIMES LIKE THIS WE STAND TOGETHER. Together we pray, together we dream, together we support, together we learn, together we mourn, together we celebrate, together we grow, and together we build for our future!

Thanks to the generosity of prior donors, we have been blessed to have created and maintained our thriving Temple, Day School, and Religious School. Today we are focused on ensuring greatness for our families and generations to follow. So many of our young members have joined the long list of repeat donors to make the dream of our Beyond the Curve Capital Campaign a reality.

YOUR TIME IS NOW!

GOAL: $55,000,000 $38 MILLION raised to date

246 DONORS { thank you }

Contact Ilana Gilat, Development Director, at [email protected] or 786.364.9429 www.tbam.org/beyondthecurve Tuesday January 26, 2021 7:30–9:00 p.m.

A Zoom gathering of folks who make their professional home at UM and their spiritual home at Temple Beth Am. Enjoy an evening with members of Temple Beth Am’s clergy, professional staff, and lay leaders and schmooze with temple members who are also affiliated with the University of Miami.

We will welcome special guest speaker, Erin Kobetz, PhD, MPH Professor of Medicine and Public Health Sciences RSVP A MUST www.tbam.org/BethUMers Vice Provost for Research Questions? Call Rita Diaz University of Miami at 305.323.9322

Steering Committee Edith & Professor Norman G. Einspruch • Colleen & Richard Fain, Past Chairman of the Board Barbara Havenick, Trustee, and Len Morrison • Drs. Randye & Ira Karmin • Dorothy & Aaron Podhurst, Trustee Leslie Miller Saiontz, Trustee • & Lily Serviansky • Vanessa & Robb Steinberg, Hillel Chairman of the Board

Tuesday, February 2, 2021 A Zoom gathering at 7:30–9:00 pm

A Gator social gathering of folks who have a passion for all things Gator and make their spiritual home at Temple Beth Am.

Do you have a child at the University of Florida? Are you parents of graduates of University of Florida. Are YOU an alum of UF? Join members of your clergy, professional staff, and lay leaders and schmooze with other Gators!

If you are interested in joining us for the evening, please call Rita Diaz, 305.323.9322 or RSVP to [email protected] Commentator January 2021 • Page 22 Peace Love Sponsor

TEMPLE BETH AM DAY SCHOOL ANNUAL AUCTION Thursday, May 27, 2021

Temple Beth Am Day School’s Annual Auction owes its success to corporate sponsors like you. Contributions at all levels make a meaningful impact on the student experience, and your generosity will be recognized in the event program and on signage. Let’s Come Together for our children’s future!

— PRESENTED BY —

CORPORATE SPONSORS

FLOWER POWER SO RAD RIGHT ON DREAMY

Become a corporate sponsor today at TBAM.ORG/ANNUALAUCTION FAMILY SPONSORS

OUT OF SIGHT Sara & Alex Berkowitz Natalie & Justin Firestone

RIGHT ON Alexandra & Gregory Frankel

GROOVY Kate & Dan Sachar Amy & Ethan Shapiro

NAMASTE Stacey Baker & Jeremy Hoch Kim & Gregory Haller

DREAMY Michelle Mattei Chica & Manual Chica Lauren Frost & Jeff Berman Alisha & Jeff Houseman Randi & Gregory Sandler Lauren & Adam Schwartz Kerri & Joshua Stone Ophelia & Robert Valls Alia & Lou Wolfson

FREE SPIRIT Suzi Baer Geraldine Schnaider & Claudio Kapusta Erika Litvak & Abby Savransky

as of December 16, 2020

Become a family sponsor today at

TBAM.ORG/ANNUALAUCTION Page 23 Happy New Year Sisters! With 2020 behind us, we should all look forward to better times in terms of health and gatherings and hopefully a safe vaccine for COVID-19. In the meantime, let’s continue to practice social distancing and mask wearing to stay safe for ourselves and our community. Sisterhood is in a great place entering 2021. We have 232 current members, which is an incredible show of support during these hard times. We’ve offered interesting programming despite the challenges of meeting virtually. For example, even though Art Basel was cancelled, we created our own “Beth Am Basel” with four Sisterhood artists. This was a wonderful eye-opening experience that showed us that even with limits, there was room for creativity and discovery. This past year we’ve covered the arts, education, and health as well as sustained a book club and movie club. There’s nothing like exploring new topics with women from your community, and I’m so looking forward to upholding the quality of programming expected from Sisterhood. On that note, I’d like to share with you an email I received from two young women who have been very involved with our Day School as Annual Auction chairs.

Dear Dilia, Happy New Year! We wanted to introduce ourselves to you... Sara Berkowitz and Natalie Firestone. We are the co- chairs for the Day School’s Annual Auction (for the second year in a row). We love being involved with the school and the Beth Am community. It really has become a second home for both of our families. Because the community is so important to us, we would really like to get more involved with the Temple. Sisterhood appeals to us because you all seem like a group of amazing women who support each other through the Temple community. We would love to be a part of the special group you all have created. We also see an incredible opportunity to get more moms from the day school involved with Sisterhood... especially during this time when community is so vital. TBAM offers such diverse programming that covers the many stages in congregant lives. We feel there is a small gap when it comes to women in the 30s-40s who have children in the Day School, but want to have a social and community relationship with the Temple. We feel Sisterhood is the perfect place for this group to connect within the Temple that will nurture our personal identities and sustain our connection with the Temple beyond our years as parents at the school. We have decided the first step would be to join Sisterhood and attend your first event. We are so excited to be part of Sisterhood and look forward to meeting you and connecting soon about ideas that we have about getting our peers involved as well. Warmly, Natalie and Sara

They joined and immediately had a vision for a flower arranging/tablescape class with a Chanukah theme which turned out to be one of our most successful events so far. It was so well received that Sisterhood is being asked to do something similar for . We’re always open to new programming ideas, please reach out to me if you’d like to see an idea come to fruition. I could not be more proud of leading this wonderful group of dedicated women.

DILIA GROSSMAN, Sisterhood President

Page 24 The Color of Love: A Story of a Mixed-Race Jewish Girl by Marra B. Gad THURSDAY, JANUARY 7 at 7:00 PM Rabbi Aklepi will facilitate our discussion of The Color of Love: A Story of a Mixed-Race Jewish Girl by Marra B. Gad. In 1970, three-day-old Marra B. Gad was adopted by a white Jewish family in Chicago. For her parents, it was love at first sight—but they quickly realized the world wasn't ready for a family like theirs. Marra's biological mother was unwed, white, and Jewish, and her biological father was black. While still a child, Marra came to realize that she was "a mixed-race, Jewish unicorn." In black spaces, she was not "black enough" or told that it was OK to be Christian or Muslim, but not Jewish. In Jewish spaces, she was mistaken for the help, asked to leave, or worse. Even in her own extended family, racism bubbled to the surface. The Color of Love explores the idea of yerusha, which means "inheritance" in Yiddish. At turns heart-wrenching and heartwarming, this is a story about what you inherit from your family—identity, disease, melanin, hate, and most powerful of all, love. With honesty, insight, and warmth, Marra B. Gad has written an inspirational, moving chronicle proving that when all else is stripped away, love is where we return, and love is always our greatest inheritance. RSVP at tbam.org/bookclub

COMING SOON AN EVENING WITH MARRA B. GAD in partnership with across Miami and Miami Beach!

COMING SOON A Night of Yiddishkeit! Join your Sisterhood mishpocheh for a fun-filled night of chutzpadik! You’ll plotz, you’ll kvell, and you’ll learn more about Yiddish culture, popular Yiddish words, and how Yiddish has evolved throughout the years. You don’t have to worry about schlepping to this program; it’s all on Zoom! We can’t wait to see your punims there to laugh, learn, and schmooze!

For more information on all programs, please e-mail us at [email protected]. Please include your phone number so we can call you back. www.tbam.org/sisterhood Page 25 Commentator January 2021 • Page 26

By Dr. Lenore C. Kipper, RJE, Judaic Studies Director, Emerita Enduring Wisdom from the Chapter four reflects the time following the Bar Kochba rebellion, 135 CE, that ended with a tremendous defeat by Hadrian, the Roman Emperor. It involved the loss of , the renaming of the city, Aelia Capitolina, and the name of the land, Palestina. There was enormous loss of life, chaos and despair. The rabbis had to reconstruct their world, maintaining their ties with the past while creating a structure for Jewish life for the future. The primary issue was how to survive and instill hope. The rabbis quoted in this chapter date from 140-250 CE. This was the time in which Pirke Avot was completed. Remember, this is at the end of the . Avot 4:1 Ben Zoma said, “Who is wise? The one who learns from everyone, Another translation: “Treat no one lightly and think nothing is as it is said, from all my teachers, I have gained understanding.” useless, for everyone has one’s moment and everything has its “Who is strong? One who shows self-control, as it is said, One place.” slow to anger is better than the mighty, the one who conquers a city.” The rabbis at Yavneh had this discussion: “I am a creature of “Who is rich? One who is content with what one has, as it is God and you are a creature of God. My work may be in the said, when you eat what your hands have provided, you shall be city, yours in the field. You do not claim your work is superior happy.” to mine, so do I not claim that my work is superior to yours. “Who is honored? One who honors others, as it is said, those who One should not say, I do more important work.” How relevant honor Me (God) I will honor.” this idea is for us today! The scientists, the doctors, the leaders of government do important work for the country and each The four ideas expressed by Ben Zoma are frequently quoted. community, but we are acknowledging how important are the They suggest attitudes that reflect humility, respect, and essential workers who do the every day work of sustaining all appropriate behavior between people. A scholar is recognized the necessary aspects of daily living for all of us. for his knowledge and wisdom, yet one must not become conceited or arrogant and be able to listen and learn from Avot 4:7 students and other people. Impulsive anger leads to destructive “One who avoids serving as a judge is shielded from enmity and actions and sometimes rage. Learning how to control angry perjury, and one who is arrogant in pronouncing judgement is a feelings begins with children. Hopefully, they are taught how fool, is wicked and haughty.” to behave and not hurt another with words or actions. We expect adults to know how to have self-control, but sometimes This advice points out the dangers inherent in acting as a judge. there are those who continually act or speak impulsively It does not, however, teach that one should be excused from and cause more anger to increase. Ben Zoma teaches us the office. It is an obligation to serve. Nevertheless, one who that happiness does not depend on how much we have in rushes to render decisions, who declares, “I am the expert…I possessions, but how thankful we can be for our blessings of know what is best”, is rushing to make decisions without life, family, friends and an attitude of gratitude. Lastly, when caution, and then if it is wrong, argues to justify that decision we are respectful to others, we will be respected because this is in order to prevail. Such a person cannot admit when they are an essential mitzvah of Judaism. wrong. The community will fall into ruins if its people insist on the letter of the law in every matter and show no inclination to Avot 4:2 temper justice with mercy. (Talmud) Ben Azzai said, “Run to do a minor mitzvah and flee from The religious philosopher, Martin Buber, tells this story: The a transgression. One good deed leads to another, and one Great Maggid once said to his disciples, “Let me tell you the best transgression leads to another.” way to teach; forget yourselves, stop thinking of yourselves…start listening, and the minute you start hearing yourself talking, stop.” What does he mean by a minor mitzvah? All of the The Holy One says of one who is arrogant, there is not room commandments are important, ceremonial and ethical. Rashi enough in the world for both of us. (Talmud) explains that the distinction between least important and most important is determined by individual choice, not by the Torah. “…and do not say, you must adopt my view, for the choice is In other words, striving to do most of the commandments theirs, not yours.” begins with one, even if we do not consider it so important, but it can lead to the habit of continuing to do another By contrast, The idea of compromise is recommended when making when we choose to do one transgression, it can lead to the habit judgments is written in the tradition, in Zechariah 8:16, and of doing more transgressions. The key word is developing the later in the Talmud. The context of the two quotes 7 and 8, are habit. There is a wonderful song that uses this quote in Hebrew related to judges. I believe they are also especially relevant to “Mitzvah goreret mitzvah, avera goreret averah.” political and religious leaders.

Avot 4:3 “Despise no one, and regard nothing is impossible, for you will Lenore find no one whose hour does not come, and not a thing that does not have its place.” We raised $44,573 from 173 donors to support our Temple and schools! We had a day full of school spirited activities both virtual and on campus, sponsored and presented by PATIO. Thanks to the generosity of our families, we surpassed our goal for the 3rd year in a row!

Page 27 Commentator January 2021 • Page 28 Mussar Practice – Become a Better You Facilitated by Jeff Agron

Tuesdays, starting January 12 7:30 – 8:30 PM

Would you like to learn more about yourself, to grow, feel closer to God, closer to your highest potential? Judaism’s answer – daily Mussar practice. Mussar provides guidance­ to identify one’s uniquely personal path to character development. Practices include text study, meditation, weekly exercises, group process and daily journaling.

Course fee: $36 for 10 sessions

Register online for Zoom information at www.tbam.org/mussar

Jeff Agron has been a student and practitioner of Mussar for 20 years. He was one of the founders of The Mussar Institute (TMI) with Alan Morinis, and has served as Board Member, President, and Operations Director. He is a certified Mussar facilitator as well as a certified Jewish meditation teacher. Jeff has been facilitating Mussar at Temple Beth Am for 5 years. THURSDAYS at 5:30 PM Mix one part Happy Hour with words of wisdom and some human interest and you get Erev Tov! “Erev Tov” is Hebrew for “Good Evening,” and Rabbi Aklepi invites you to join her every Thursday as we move from workday to evening and work week to weekend.

Watch live on Facebook, www.tbam.org/streaming, or Youtube.com/TempleBethAmTV!

THE JEWISH VOICE with Cantor Rachelle Nelson Thursdays at 7:00 pm Join Cantor Rachelle Nelson in conversation with leading voices in the world of contemporary Jewish music, featuring live interviews and performances from some of the top artists of yesterday, today, and tomorrow!

Page 29 Commentator January 2021 • Page 30

We're Looking for Candidates!

Temple Beth Am Board of Directors Nomination Recommendation

We are looking for congregrants who want to make a difference in our Temple Community. If you are interested in the opportunity to do meaningful work alongside talented and dedicated temple staff and lay leaders, or know someone who would like to, please consider submitting an application to Daniela Zanzuri [email protected] . We are looking for people who want to share their passion, talents and contribute to the meaningful work that is done by the Temple Beth Am Board of Directors.

The Nominating Committee meets during the first quarter of the secular year to identify congregants who have demonstrated the qualities necessary for becoming a member of the Temple Beth Am Board of Directors. If you or someone you have worked with deserves this honor and have the willingness to take on the responsibility, we invite you to complete this form and return it for consideration by the Nominating Committee.

• A Director should be committed to serving Temple Beth Am, attend monthly Board meetings, be active on at least one committee, have good follow through, act as a positive ambassador for the congregation, and make at least one B’nai Mitzvah presentation each year.

• To enhance the Board of Director’s experience, we are working to align the personal interests of each nominee with the needs of Temple Beth Am. Each nominee will be invited to discuss their preferences as part of the nomination process.

• Placing a name in nomination does not guarantee a seat on the Board of Directors. The committee often receives more nominations than there are openings.

Please complete this form, providing as much information as possible. You are welcome to add additional sheets as necessary or copy this form if you have more than one recommendation, OR email your letter of recommendation to [email protected].

1. Name of nominee ______2. Nominee’s phone number and email ______3. In what capacity have you worked with the nominee? ______4. Positive contributions you feel the nominee would make to the Board ______5. Nominee’s involvement in Temple Beth Am ______6. Nominee’s involvement in the greater Jewish Community ______7. Additional Comments ______Your name ______Phone ______Email______

Please scan/photograph and email to [email protected] (and copy Mindy Robbin at [email protected]) by February 1, 2021. PLANT BASED AND PB&J JEWISH Getting Healthy Together Interested in learning more about clean eating, but not sure where to start?

Temple Beth Am invites you to check out our newest initiative, which seeks to provide resources and support for making better choices to promote a healthy lifestyle.

Join your fellow congregants as we embark on this health journey together!

Follow us on FaceBook at @TBAMPB&J for updates, and to learn how to get involved!

the current of life

We mourn the passing of

Sherri Lee Wolf, mother of Pamela (Brett) Lear, grandmother of Sean Lear and Shaina (Charles) Simon Ian Yankwitt, son-in-law of Dr. Barry (Sheila) Halpern Elaine Richman wife of Dr. Paul Richman, mother of Elise (Danny) van der Reis, Cahty (Max) Alcalay and Jamie (Lowell Rush) Richman and grandmother of Ryan, Brent Sydney, Alexa, Ari, Ilan, Milena and Nathalie Alan Phillips, uncle of Mitchell (Audrey) Phillips, great uncle of Jacob, Max and Aaron Phillips Dr. Alan Bisno, MD, close friend of Suzanne and Dr. Lawrence Fishman Peggy Levinson, mother of Linda Cahan Kenneth “Kenny” L. Bernstein, husband of Joni Bernstein and father of Allison Bernstein Lawrence (Larry) Green, father of Tracey (Larry) Spiegelman, Kim Moed, Andrew Green (Jill Balli) and Jennifer Fogler, grandchildren Lindsay, AJ, Sydney, Max, Chase, Alexis and Morgan. He is also survived by his first wife Roberta (Bobbie) Shulman Green, several cousins, nieces and nephews and Larry’s companion Betty Barber

Page 31 Commentator January 2021 • Page 32

Week ending Dr. Robert Salzman Toby Grossman Louis Bush* January 1, 2021 Robert Sandler* Sara Hamudi Minnie Cohen* Sy Sarasohn Betty Hilf* Dorothy Cook-Schwartz Henry Adelman* Miriam G. Schiff* Charles Hirsch Richard Davis Louis Adler* Arthur Schimmel* Marcia Hosey Harry Deutsch* Elise Akouka Helen Shapiro* Max Hymovitz Stuart Diamond Mae Appel* Clara Singer Lolly Jason Dobras Dr. William Ditkowsky* Julio Bembanaste Frances Singer* Sydney Josepher Louis Ellenbogen Hannah J. Berg* Ross Alan Standiford Frank Edward Kaplan* Sarah Esterman* Doreen Kaplan Bitterman* Bernard Stein M.D. Minnie Kaplan* Myrna Lee Falk Nettie R. Bleiberg* Sam Suchman* Mike Nikola Kovac* Isadore Fine* Herbert Bramnick Merwin Sumberg Murray Krasnor Jacob Robert Fishkind* Fay Brilliant Braverman* Janice Sussman Marezel Krulewitch* Neil Fishman* Pilar Casanova Ellis Weinstein Barbara Lazear Robert Fried* Mike Chervony* Leonard Weisberg Charles D. Lenhoff* Claire Friedlander* Harriet Citron Ida Winter Wendy Lester Dr. Kenneth Glasser Ralph Citron Meyer Zientz Howard Levine Albert Gleiberman Alice Cowen Murray I. Levine Samuel Goldberger* Adrienne Atkins Darlow* Week ending Yale Levine Helene Goodman Mark Sandor Darlow* January 8, 2021 Margaret Lichtman Herschel “Hank” Green* Jerry Davis* Max Messing Jack Green Fatima de Sa Rodrigues Elaine Agin Richard Alan Morrison* Howard Harnik* Erno F. Fabry* Edward Aibel* Reva Moulton* Fred Harrison* Florence Feld Dr. Daniel Aiken Misza Abraham Neuhaus* Henry Hasson Max Feld Dr. Kenneth Baer* Francisco Notario Ethel Herman

Memory Belle Fink* Robert Bayer* Sonia Palacio Leon (Lee) Hersh Sara Flam* Ann Bellin Zennith Pasternack* Lillian Hertz Ruth Fruitstone* Bernard Berger* Wesley Reisberg* Sara Hertz Garazi Allan Berk* William Reiser JodyAnn Hirsch Henrietta Garvett Selma Berkowitz Albert Rosenbaum Benjamin Jacowitz* Barnett Goldner Anna Beslow Arthur Rosenberg* Mr. Bernard Kalman* Myriam Gonzalez Dorothy Bittel Allan E. “Buddy” Ida Kaplan* Jack Gottlieb* Shirley Bittel* Rozansky* Marie Kargman Rose Gurman Anne Martin Breslaw Harvey Saunders Beatrice Kelner Victoria Hasson Jack Calderon Philip Singer Harry Kermisch* Rebecca Herzog Finel* Ida Cohen* Manuel Stern* Margery Kohrman Robert S. Hurwitz* Harry Coleman* Edna R. Sturges Bette Lackritz Geraldine Kalin* Anne C. Cook* Isadore Taylor Henry J. Landen* Renee Kaplan* Arnoldine Cowling Babette Thorpe* Charles Lewis* Anita Rene Karl* Isadore Danto* Selma Turetsky Suzanne Lichtman Mildred K. Klein* Louis Davidoff Dorothy Webman Daniel Lowe Harry Koenigsberg Janette Deutsch Frieda Stahl Weinberger* Hillelene Lustig* David Kraslow Fred Ehrenkranz* Alva Weintraub* Irl Edward Marcus* Anna Leshaw* Alan Farber Arthur L. Miller Robert C. Littauer Stuart Feinglass* Week ending Sidney Nullman* Dr. Allan K. Michaelson* Herman Feldman January 15, 2021 Frances Orlin Albert Morrison Jr.* Carlos Fernandez Ruth Polk Albert Nash* Robert Fischer* Dora Agron Jennifer Press-Kravetz In Loving Ester Neuhaus* Andrew Fisher Harry Aizenshtat* Henry John Reynaud* Marion Paulenoff Bertha Kasher Gabrelow* Henrietta Anapol Samuel Rosenbach Lena Pawliger* Dr. Jacob Goeller* Judge Sidney Aronovitz Marion Rosenberg* Kenneth Robinson Jacob “Jack” Gold* Sylvia K. Bahm Susan Rosenthal Merritt Rosenthal Arthur W. Goldstein David Berk* Sandor Rosin Jack Rubin* Anne Meirovitz Gottlieb* Arthur Bookman* Arthur Rubin Selma Karnitsky Rudinsky Arthur Grossberger* Harriet Brochin* Jeffrey Samek Sue Rose Samuels Minerva Graff* Week ending Henry Osdoby Howard Schaeffer Howard Gross* January 29, 2021 Evelyn Rauchman* Mildred Schimmel* Cecile Roth Held* Charlotte Reisman Serkin Jerold J. Schwarz Mrs. Judyth Hirsch* Saul Agranov Aidman* Dr. Alan James “Jimmy” Segal Allan Homer* Jorge Ahuja Lily Resnick Elsie Siegel Lena Homer* Michael Altman Richard I. Rheingold* Louis Siegel Fernando Ibarra Dorothy Baer* Beverly Robinson Rosen* Max Silverman* Paul Kaminsky Ronna Bennett Pearl Rosenberg Mildred Slotnick Abraham Kantor* Richard Bernstein* Abraham Rosenfeld* Ethel Solar* Dr. Harold Kaplan Anita Biederman Benjamin Rosenfield Ethel Sondak Burt Katz Anne Blackstein* Belle Ross* Pauline Spitz* Edmund Klein Edward Bleiberg* Nathan Rothberg Jerry J. Steiner* Harold Kluger Helen Bloom* Max Rubenstein Joseph “Pepe” Susi* Samuel Kreindler Herman Brams Nicole Saiontz Betty Susman* Irving Kryss* Barbara Brooks Murray Salzman* Steven Udem Nicolau Leda Sidney Brown Lea Schein Sam Vilinsky* Ira Legon Mary Chervony* A. Jay Schwartz Joseph Wein Jay Leshaw* Dr. Matthew Cohen Bernardo Serviansky* Esther Weinberg* Simon Levine* Mortimer Cohen* Bennett Silver Marilyn Weiner* Evelyn Levitt* Charles Cook Louis Snider* Adrian Weiss Shirley Lodmer* Bertha Cravitt* Philip Solomon Pearl Welt* Hannah Levine Malin* Marc “Bill” Davis Myrna Stampler Harriet Foreman Yam Morris Marlin* Sam Davis Bradley W. Strauss* Albert Ziffer* Berthold Meier Felicia Deutch Carol Strauss Morris Zwibel Sophie Meier Isidore Feirstein* Herb Martin Suskin* Henry V. Merkle* Marjorie Eaker Fleeman Sylvia Swerdlow* Week ending Henry Michaels* Sara Franco Golinsky* Hans Van Essen January 22, 2021 Rhoda Miles Irving Glicken Teresa Wald* Sydonia “Syd” Nacron Seymour Golub Gloria Jean Wolkind Wallens Simone Abitbol Beverly Norman Irving Gottlieb* Cynthia Weinstein Ronald L. Albert* Myron Nuell Max Grad* Lillian Weiss Sydney Altman* Louis E. Pallot* Martin Grodnick Samuel Francis Wexler* Barbara Rosen Arman* Corinne Perlmutter Hannah Grossman Jack Wiener Irving Arnold Gabriel Powers* Belle Haber Rose Zimmerman* Selma Baumgard* Lucia Poyastro* Arthur Kail* Joseph Benyunes Lillian Rosen Murray Lee Kane * Denotes individuals with a Peter Bergman Gertrude Salem* Irving Kaplan plaque in our sanctuary. Harvey L. Brant Judith Schimmel David Kates* Israel Brener* Samuel Seitlin Ruth P. Kates* S. Busch* Herbert Sherman Shepard King* Moe Cohen* Henry Silverman* David Koffsky* Samuel Criden* Sol M. Simon* Esther Korchin Juan P. Diaz- Alvarado Max Singer Gertrude Kotkin Beatrice Dines Morris Spivack Muriel Leibowitz Helen Dyment* Bertha Stern Rose Levine* Minna Ellison* Blanche Stern Rabbi Nathan Levinson Dr. David Feigenbaum* Dorothy Sturmak Samuel Levy Rose Freedman* William Wald* Arthur Lieberman Randee Beth Fried* Rose A. Warhaft Sherbal* Christopher J. Lopatka Charles Friedman Helen Weissman Rae Lowe Anita Gnaizda* Peter Wolofsky Julius Marcus Isabel Goldfarb Harry Ziwiak* Carmen Medina-Garcia Stanley Goodman Marcia Zuckerman Lavine Edna Meredith Leonidas Gorenstein* Belle Zuckerman Oren* Goldye Gottlieb* Charles Osdin

Page 33 Commentator January 2021 • Page 34

THE STEPHEN ARKY FAMILY CARING FUND Jacquelyn and Earl Wald and family in memory In loving memory of Steve Arky who is, and always will of Merrill Lamb, father of Adam (Lisa) Lamb, be, deeply in our hearts, with love and respect, Marlin, grandfather of Macy and Jackson Lisa and Todd Aida and Neil Littauer in loving memory of Pamela Lear’s mother, Sherri Lee Wolf DR. IRWIN PERLMUTTER ACADEMIC Aida and Neil Littauer in loving memory of Tracey SCHOLARSHIP FUND Spiegelman’s father, Lawrence “Larry” Green Keeping the Legacy of Temple Beth Am Founding Member, Dr. Irwin Perlmutter, alive through Jewish LIBRARY FUND Education Etta and Don Gold in memory of Sherri Lee Wolf, mother of Pamela Lear CANTOR NELSON’S DISCRETIONARY FUND Debra and Jason Cohen in honor of Zachary’s LYNN CROMER LEADERSHIP Bar Mitzvah INITIATIVE FUND Marlene and Joel Kaplan in loving memory of Tom Cromer in honor of Cantor Rachelle Nelson, Linda Cahan’s mother, Peggy Levinson for her many years of service to our community Pamela and Brett Lear in honor of Cantor Rachelle Tom Cromer in loving memory of Pamela Lear’s mother, Nelson, Andrea LeVine and Aida Littauer in Sherri Lee Wolf appreciation for the beautiful memorial service for Tom Cromer in honor of our Clergy’s efforts during Pamela’s mother, Sherri Lee Wolf COVID-19 Arthur Miller in loving memory of my late wife, Ava Rey Miller RABBI AKLEPI’S DISCRETIONARY FUND Debbie and Jim Nolan in loving memory of Ron Esserman Arthur Miller in loving memory of my late wife, Ava Rey Miller THE JOAN KRAMER GALLANT AND MARTIN GALLANT CHILDREN’S FUND RABBI BARRAS’ DISCRETIONARY FUND In memory of our papa, Martin Gallant with love from Rivka Blattner in memory of mother, Jane, Mack and Sunny Shoshana ben Bassat Brian Gallant in loving memory of his parents Elaine and Allen Brown in honor of Alla Metelsky. Tracy Gallant Brody in loving memory of her parents Thank you for your caring call and guidance. Your thoughts mean so much to my family and me. DAY SCHOOL FUND Ashley and Matt Deitch in honor of the bris of Rita Diaz in loving memory, of Irving Podhurst Oliver Bram Deitch Barbara Fishman, in loving memory of my brother Deborah Finkle in memory of Elaine Richman Mitchell Halbrich Rebecca Karsenti Marlene and Richard Kohn in honor of Carolina and Donna Levine in memory of Dr. Albert Tawil, Harvey Gurland’s new grandchild, Jacob Chase Brown brother of Fran Berrin and Jackie Wald Lynn and Howard Zusman in loving memory of Michael and Susan Meister donated in memory Solomon Mollov of Elaine Richman Arthur Miller in loving memory of my late wife, GENERAL FUND Ava Rey Miller Lee Binder and David Swimmer in memory of Kenneth Susan and Bob Price Bernstein, father of Allison Bernstein Lindy Smith in appreciation of the Rabbi’s d’var Torah, Rita Diaz in memory of Maurice Kutner the cantors and the musicians. Most of all I enjoyed Lisa, Lee and Dylan Goldstein in memory of the upbeat songs and prayers! Elaine Richman Jennifer Gould in memory of Elaine Richman RABBI GREENGRASS’ DISCRETIONARY FUND

We Give Thanks Vicki and Hardy Katz in memory of Barry Greenberg Richard and Anne Bacall in memory of Elaine Richman Olivia and Ron Rothstein in loving memory of Joy Diane and Erin Greenfield in memory of Ettica and Stan Jaffee Rosenbaum, mother of Abbe Rosenbaum Barbara and Ed Sirkin in loving memory of Joy Jaffee Randy and Judi McKean in memory of Ettica Rosenbaum. Harris and Mayi Steinberg in loving memory of Dear Abbe, so sorry to hear about your Mom. Our David N. Steinberg condolences to you and your family. Love, Randy & Judi McKean LESLEE ARONOVITZ Arthur Miller in loving memory of my late wife, YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP FUND Ava Rey Miller Adrian and Ken Dubow in memory of Elaine Richman Jose Montenegro in honor of my late mother, Maria Montenegroz’l Shelley Payne in memory of Allen I. Payne. With TIKKUN OLAM FUND gratitude to Rabbi Greengrass for creating a warm, Mark and Margie Buchbinder in honor of Shelley thoughtful memorial service for my father, Al Payne. Jacoby’s leadership Stephen Phillips in memory of Alan Phillips Jill and Hal Gaffin in memory of our dear friend, Rachel and Brad Sohn in memory of Lawrence Michael Green Joy Jaffee, with love Rosanna and Randy Weber in appreciation of Rabbi Paul and Marilyn Gustman in memory of Louis Fehder Greengrass. Thank you for all you have done for our Brette Wurzburg in memory of Mark Webman family throughout the years. We all love you. Jerry Wiskin in memory of his grandmother, Lena Neustadt YAHRZEIT FUND Rachelle Rodriguez in loving memory of Elva Fried RITUAL/PRAYER BOOK FUND Ellen Widom in memory of Marion Cohen Rubin Elaine and Norman Stokes and family in memory of Fanny Alperowitz

THE SHEPARD KING SCHOLARSHIP FUND Bernita King, Russell King and Tamara King Stark in memory of our beloved Shep, who continues to inspire us in everything we do Marlene and Richard Kohn in honor of David Stark, grandson of Bernita King, on the occasion of his Bar Mitzvah

SISTERHOOD FUND Judy and Daniel Cowan in loving memory of Pamela Lear’s mother, Sherri Lee Wolf Marlene and Richard Kohn in loving memory of Pamela Lear’s mother, Sherri Lee Wolf Faye Koniver and Elliot Messing in loving memory of Tracey Spiegelman’s father, Larry Green Susan and Dick Lampen in loving memory of Pamela Lear’s mother, Sherri Lee Wolf Susan and Dick Lampen in loving memory of Tracey Spiegelman’s father, Larry Green Susan and Dick Lampen in loving memory of Barry and Sheila Halpern’s son-in-law, Ian Yankwitt

SOCOL FAMILY FOUNDATION SPEAKER SERIES FUND Michele and Darren Wolfberg in memory of Joy Jaffee

MAzel Tov TO...

Howard and Pam Wolofsky on the birth of grandson Oliver Bram Deitch. Mazel Tov to parents Ashley and Matt Deitch and aunt and uncle Samantha and Evan Feinberg, cousins Cole and Ella Feinberg and aunt and uncle Shelby Wolofsky and Doug Wexler

Lisa and Victor Mendelson on the engagement of daughter Lindsey to Ryan Pearson. Mazel Tov to Lindsey’s siblings Nicole and Alexander

Ilana Tanenbaum and Carlos Shteremberg on the birth of Ana Joey Shteremberg and Mazel Tov to grandparents Flippy and Harold Tanenbaum

Larry and Sheila Forman on the birth of grandson Levi Forman

Page 35 Commentator January 2021 • Page 36

CUISINE | CATERING | SPECIAL EVENTS FLORIDA AVENUE HOSPITALITY

BY CHEF AARON DREILINGER 305-676-5300 [email protected] WWW.FLORIDAAVENUEHOSPITALITY.COM "Food is the common denominator that brings people together." J A M E S B E A R D

A DOUBLE MITZVAH: SUPPORT ISRAEL AND YOUR SPECIAL CAUSES THROUGH ISRAEL BONDS

DONATING ISRAEL BONDS PROVIDES: • Interest plus principal at maturity for your designated charity or foundation • Funds for Israel’s economy • A tax deduction to the extent permitted by law*

BOND WITH A NATION OF LIMITLESS POTENTIAL israelbonds.com *Consult your tax advisor for more information. VISIT ISRAELBONDS.COM OR EMAIL [email protected]; 888.764.2631

This is not an offering, which can be made only by Development Corporation for Israel prospectus. Read the prospectus carefully before Vladi Yurovsky, Executive Director • [email protected] • 305.755.4806 investing to fully evaluate the risks associated with Liron Ozery, Registered Representative • [email protected] • 305.755.4808 investing in Israel bonds. Member FINRA. Photo credit: iStock “There has probably never been a time in human history when people Roberta G. Mandel, Esq. Managing Partner around the world have depended on their homes more completely 8925 S.W. 148th Street, Suite 200 than they do right now.” Miami, Florida 33176 Tel: 305-233-5041 - Robert Reffkin, Fax: 305-233-5042 Compass Founder & CEO [email protected]

Cheshvan – Kislev 5781 November 2020

In these uncertain times, we’re here for you. Team Citron is proud to offer Compass Virtual Agent Services - an exclusive suite of marketing & transactional services, including: Come Grow with YERS! SEE PAGES 10 AND 11 FOR MORE DETAILS • Virtual Open Houses • Private interactive home tours ADVERTISE IN OUR • Virtual neighborhood tours • Dynamic digital listing brochures COMMENTATOR! • Digital marketing & insights Contact us today to learn more We mail out over 1500 copies 11 months of the year.

Reach our members and our community.

Contact Rita Diaz for information: [email protected]

Bea Citron [email protected] 305.606.7993

Jenna Citron Pinchuk [email protected] 305.606.9267

Not intended to solicit currently listed property. © Compass Florida, LLC. Equal Housing Opportunity. All information furnished regarding property for sale or rent or regarding fi nancing is from sources deemed reliable, but Compass makes no warranty or representation as to the accuracy thereof. All property information is presented subject to errors, omissions, price changes, changed property conditions, and withdrawal of the property from the market, without notice.

Page 37 Commentator January 2021 • Page 38 Temple Beth Am professional Directory 2020/2021

BRIT OLOM TOURS, INC.–TRAVEL PROFESSIONALS - ABRAHAM BENYUNES, M.D., FAAP Concierge travel agency designing worry-free vacations Abraham J. Benyunes is a Mohel certified by the Jewish Theological worldwide for over 30 years—land, cruise and/or river cruise. Seminary and the Rabbinical Assembly of America. Israel experts—creating personalized, private itineraries for Bar/ Tel.: 305.271.4711 Email: [email protected] Bat Mitzvah’s, family and friends. Karen and Zvi Krugliak www.moheldoctor.com 305.403.7548/www.britolomtours.com | [email protected]

DOMESTIC PLACEMENT SERVICES MOHEL - CERTIFIED REFORM MOHEL - BRIS DOCTOR, Class Act Nannies, LLC - Jennifer Warren Medwin JASON JAMES, M.D. Bilingual Candidates, Live-out or -in, nanny, housekeeper, chef, Dr. Jason James is a board-certified Ob/Gyn and a certified reform driver, petsitter, elderly companion, babysitter, baby specialist, mohel through the National Organization of American Mohalim 24-hour care. (NOAM). Providing a family-centered focus for a beautiful, inclusive 11767 South Dixie Highway, # 404, Miami, FL 33156 ceremony for your son’s bris (). 305.302.9777 | www.ClassActNannies.com 305.778.5157 | facebook.com/brisdoctor E N G L I S H S P E C I A L I S T : E D I T I N G , P O E T R Y , R E S U M É S REAL ESTATE Rita Fidler Dorn (Ricki) BS, MA. rickidornpoetry.com If you are looking to rent or buy in Brickell or Downtown, I can help Writing workshops on grief, creativity, and poetry construction. you find the perfect place! I have helped many people find a home Published book author, including The Joy of in where they can walk to work, stores and restaurants. Rhyme. Expert manuscript editing. [email protected] Marissa Levine, SRES - Realtor with Levine Realty Inc. Temple Beth Am Day School graduate! 305.562.9053/[email protected]

ESTATE SELLING & E-SALES BY RITA JONATHAN BAUMGARD, M.D.,­ F.A.A.P. If you have a home to liquidate, Estate Sales by Rita is for you! SOUTH FLORIDA PEDIATRIC PARTNERS Appraisal of total contents of home. 7800 SW 87th Ave #C350 My team and I do all the work. Miami, FL 33173 Excellent references. 305.271.4711 Rita Diaz 305.323.9322 | [email protected]

FUNERAL SERVICES SPOT ON TUTORING Nicole Foodman, M.S., CDP, CALP, EDEN FUNERAL SERVICES - Professional, Compassionate, learning specialist, certified reading specialist, International Dyslexia Affordable, Local, out of state burials, pre-planning, markers, Association – Certified Dyslexia Practitioner, trained in the Orton- monuments, Veterans service, available at all cemeteries. Gillingham approach. Specialist in remediating reading/math Family Owned and Operated difficulties due to learning differences, dyslexia, dyscalculia, 305.257.8110 or [email protected] | Ari Oberstein, LFD - Owner dysgraphia, and ADD/ADHD. 786.510.5043/www.SpotOnTutoring.com/[email protected] GYNECOLOGY & WOMEN’S HEALTH SURGICAL ASSOCIATES OF SOUTH FLORIDA Randye Karmin, M.D. Compassionate Concierge Surgical Care Town Center One At Dadeland Minimally Invasive Surgery (Robotic/Laparoscopic) 8950 SW 74th Ct., Ste. 1705, Miami, FL 33156 Surgical & Non-surgical weight loss 305.670.0010 | www.miamiwomencare.com Hernia, Gallbladder, & Anti-Reflux Surgery 305.928.2070 | www.MiamiVIPSurgery.com

JENNIFER WARREN MEDWIN, MS, CDC SWIMMING LESSONS/SWIM INSTRUCTOR Certified Divorce Coach, Supreme Court of Florida Family American Red Cross Certified Water Safety Instructor Mediator,and Certified Marital Mediator Past instructor at Beth Am Day Camp Seeking Empowerment: Clarity through Partnership, LLC Empowering individuals & couples to take practical, efficient, & Natalia Garcia solution-based steps to negotiate or dissolve their marital [email protected] • 305.898.0744 relationship. Pinecrest, FL 305-302-9777/www.seekingempowerment.com

MEDICARE ASSISTANCE - MATTHEW GOLD- As your personal THERAPIST - LICENSED MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPY advisor, I will simplify the Medicare enrollment process. I can help Michal Keshen-Philips, MA, MS.Ed, LMFT you with Medicare Supplement plans, Medicare Advantage plans 5825 Sunset Drive, Suite 301, South Miami, Florida 33143 and Part D Prescription Drug plans. My email is Cellular: 305.724.4592 [email protected] and my phone number is 305.215.7881. Office: 305.275.2056 For additional information,visit- www.medicarematt.com. Getting Homes Sold for Over 30 Years!

Ilene serves Miami’s most dynamic and vibrant real estate markets including Brickell, Downtown Miami, Design District, Miami Beach, Key Biscayne, Coconut Grove, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay, The Falls, South Miami, and Pinecrest. She is constantly at the top of her game in production and is a member of Master Brokers Forum which is the top 200 agents in Miami Dade County.

ILENE EFTHIMIOU 305.205.5292 www.luxurycondosbrickell.us

Page 39 Commentator January 2021 • Page 40 Commentator Commentator (USPS: 0052-060) Is Published Monthly Except July by Temple Beth Am, 5950 North Kendall Dr., Pinecrest, FL 33156-2068. Periodicals Postage Paid at Miami, Florida. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to COMMENTATOR, TEMPLE BETH AM, THE JANET (z”l) AND RICHARD YULMAN CAMPUS, 5950 N. KENDALL DRIVE, PINECREST, FL 33156-2068. NORTH PINECREST Volume 30 Number 6

Senior Rabbi: Jeremy Barras Rabbi: Rachel G. Greengrass, MARE, RJE Rabbi: Jaime Aklepi, D.D. Chazan: Cantor Rachelle F. Nelson, D.M. Cantorial Soloist: Jessica Bass Founding Rabbi Emeritus: Herbert Baumgardz”l, D.H.L., D.D. President: Stuart Ratzan Executive Director: Brian Chartock Head of Day School: Nora Anderson, M.Ed., M.S. Admissions Director, Day School: Cari Altman, M.S. Ed. Campus Activities Director: Michelle Cohen Development Director: Ilana Gilat 6400 SW 100 ST. North Pinecrest Tennis Estate, modern Director of Lifelong Learning: Tamara Donnenfeld, MARE, RJE updates, impact. Perfect for your family and entertaining. Elementary School Director: Susana Novak, M.S. Ed. 5/4/2 | 4,776 sf. | 37,461 sf. lot | $1,950,000 Early Childhood Director: Mara Berger. M.A. Finance Director: John Wenzel Judaic Studies Director, Emerita Dr. Lenore C. Kipper, RJE KILLIAN/BAPTIST AREA Membership Director: Rita Diaz Program Director: Andrea LeVine Security and Operations Director: Sharón Levi

Administrative Office: 305.667.6667 Early Childhood Program/Day School Office: 305.665.6228 Early Childhood Program/Day School Fax: 305.668.6340 Religious School Office:305.667.6667 ext. 119 Religious School Fax: 305.666.2536 Administration Fax: 305.662.8619 Clergy Office Fax:305.667.1390 email: [email protected] web: www.tbam.org

affiliated with the: Union for Reform Judaism

Mission Statement Temple Beth Am embraces Jewish life through lifelong learning, spiritual growth 11501 SW 88 AVE. Updated expansive large gated home and community engagement. close to finest schools and hospitals on quiet street. 6/3/1 | 5,195 adj. sf. | 40,424 sf. lot | $1,499,234

TRACEY SPIEGELMAN Realtor - Associate 786-356-9228 [email protected]

Shelton and Stewart Realtors, LLC 6301 Sunset Drive, Suite 202, South Miami, FL 33143 Office: 305.666.0669 www.sheltonandstewart.com

Page 41 Commentator January 2021 • Page 42 ExpEct thE bEst. ExpEriEncE thE bEst. Florida paradisE propErtiEs.

Karel Foti richard Wieder o: 305.960.2444 o: 305.960.2445 M: 305.606.3007 M: 305.979.0370 [email protected] [email protected]

Specializing in South Florida real eState www.flparadiseproperties.com

Page 43 Commentator January 2021 • Page 44 WILLIAMSON IS MIAMI Williamson Cadillac is a J.D. Power 2020 Dealer of Excellence for the Customer Sales Experience and a Winner of Cadillac's highest award, Dealer of the Year for 2019.

J.D. Power 2019 Dealer of Excellence Program recognition is based on achievement of high scores from automotive manufacturer customer research and completion of an in-dealership best practices verification visit. For more information, visit jdpower.com/DOE

LOCATION SALES SERVICE 7815 SW 104TH St. 1-877-579-0775 1- 866-372-8217 Miami, FL Mon.-Fri. 9am - 8pm Mon.-Fri. 7:30am - 7pm Sat. 8am - 5pm Sat. 9am - 6pm Sun. Closed Sun. 11am - 5pm WilliamsonCadillac.com ©2020 General Motors. All Rights Reserved. Cadillac® YOU WILL NOT BELIEVE HOW MUCH MY PROFESSIONAL FAMILY HAS GROWN EVENT SERVICES PHILIP BREGMAN GROUGROUPP

SPECIALIZING IN We are CREATORS, INNOVATORS and DECOR | LIGHTING | STAGING EXECUTERS of EVENTS, EXPERIENCES ENTERTAINMENT | VIDEO | PHOTOGRAPHY and MEMORIES that you will never forget.

I would like to personally thank the Beth Am Community for giving me the opportunity to be a part of your family for so many years. From , to weddings, to galas, and the day school auction you have trusted me with your most special occasions. I feel honored to have made all of those great memories with you and I look forward to continuing to create beautiful simchas for years to come!

Sincerely,

Philip

For More Information Email [email protected] Philip Bregman or call Direct 954.410.9675 | Office 954.722.2223

Page 45

Magazine Ad.indd 1 9/3/19 4:23 PM Commentator January 2021 • Page 46

A Focus on the Highest Level of Quality and Trust

Let Our Family Care For Your Family

Dr. Jack Cohn Dr. Adam Cohn Dr. Aaron Cohn

We provide Preventive, Restorative, and Cosmetic Dentistry for all ages!

305-598-1428 9840 SW 77 Ave, Suite 201 Miami, FL 33156 [email protected] www.smilemiami.com Page 47 Commentator PERIODICAL POSTAGE PAID MIAMI, FLORIDA

The Janetz”l and Richard Yulman Campus 5950 N. Kendall Drive, Pinecrest, FL 33156

“I wonder what Grandma is doing at The Palace tonight?”

Grandkids can’t wait to see what will happen when they visit The Palace. One thing they know for sure is that Grandma won’t be sitting alone in her room in front of the TV with nothing to do. The Palace has been honored as America’s #1 senior community for its social calendar and activities. Best of all, with so much to do, the whole family is invited to join us. And they do! One Andalusia Avenue, Coral Gables 305.445.7444 • www.PalaceCoralGables.com Luxury Living for Seniors