Av-Elul 5781 August 2021
WelcomeCantor Tifani Coyot JOIN CANTOR COYOT FOR A SPECIAL MUSICAL ONEG AFTER SERVICES ON AUGUST 6
See page 14 for details!
TBAM400_CommCover_Aug21.indd 1 7/19/21 4:59 PM august 2021 Shabbat Services FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 2021 FRIDAY, AUGUST 20, 2021 29 Av 13 Elul 6:00 p.m. Pre-neg 6:00 p.m. Pre-neg In This Issue 6:30 p.m. Shabbat services 6:30 p.m. Shabbat services
SATURDAY, AUGUST 7, 2021 SATURDAY, AUGUST 21, 2021 9:00 a.m. Torah Study Shabbat Services 2 9:00 a.m. Torah Study 10:30 a.m. Morning Minyan 10:30 a.m. Morning Minyan High Holy Days 3 10:30 a.m. Bar Mitzvah of Parashat Re’eh Chase Dubovy Welcome Back to School 3 Deuteronomy 11:26 – 16:17 5:30 p.m. Bar Mitzvah of Haftarah: Isaiah 54:11 – 55:5 Zachary Schatzman From Strength to Strength 4
Clergy Corner 5 THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2021 Parashat Ki Teitzei 4 Elul Deuteronomy 21:10 – 25:19 President’s Message 6 10:30 a.m. Bar Mitzvah of Archer Spann Haftarah: Isaiah 54:1 – 10
New Member Shabbat 7 FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021 FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2021 6 Elul 20 Elul Membership 8/9 6:00 p.m. Pre-neg 6:00 p.m. Pre-neg Youth Engagement Religious 6:30 p.m. Shabbat services 6:00 p.m. How ‘Bout Shabbat 6:30 p.m. Shabbat services School 10/11 SATURDAY, AUGUST 14, 2021 9:00 a.m. Torah Study SATURDAY, AUGUST 28, 2021 Programming 12-14 10:30 a.m. Morning Minyan 9:00 a.m. Torah Study 10:30 a.m. Bar Mitzvah of Dennis Gerzvolf 10:30 a.m. Morning Minyan Grand Opening 15 10:30 a.m. Bat Mitzvah of BTC 16/17 Parashat Shoftim Maya Altman Deuteronomy 16:18 – 21:9 6:00 p.m. S’lichot Program and Basketball 18 Haftarah: Isaiah 51:12 – 52:12 Service
After School U 19 Parashat Ki Tavo Deuteronomy 26:1 – 29:8 B’nai Mitzvah 20 Haftarah: Isaiah 60:1 – 22 PATIO 21
Ritual Reminders 22
Becoming Visible 23 Sisterhood 24/25 our advertisers Tikkun Olam 26/27 Israel Bonds...... 29 Lisa Landy, Attorney...... 42 Committee of 100 28 Hollub Homes...... 31 Kitanim, Florist/Events...... 42 Roofing...... Friendship Circle...... 43 Our Jewish Heritage 29 College Prep ...... 34 TLC Family Care...... 43 Amicon, Construction Project Mgmt...... 33 Williamson Cadillac...... 44 New Members 30 Mirabelle, Luxury Senior Living...... 35 Accessible Home Health Care...... 44 Professional Directory Listings...... 38 Bregman, Event Planners...... 45 In Loving Memory 32 Dr. Greg Ross, Orthodontist...... 39 Camp Coleman...... 46 Ilene Efthimiou, Realtor...... 39 Buchwald Jewelers...... 46 Brotherhood 33 Goldman Residential, Realtor...... 40 Smile Miami...... 46 Current of Life 34 Roberta Mandel, Esq...... 40 Paradise Properties, Realtor...... 47 Rita Diaz, Estate Sales...... 40 The Palace...... 48 We Give 36/37 Dr. Rebecca Lenard, Pediatric Dentist.... 40 Cristy Hertz, Attorney...... 41 Professional Directory 38 Bea Citron, Realtor...... 41 Medicare Matt...... 41 Chef Aaron Dreilinger, Catering...... 42 WELCOMEMeet the Teacher First Day of School BACKFRIDAY, AUGUST 20 MONDAY, AUGUST 23 STUDENTSJOIN US FOR OUR GRAND OPENING ON AUGUST 22! FOR DETAILS, SEE PAGE 15.
HIGH HOLY DAYS 5782 Welcome Home ROSH HASHANAH MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 EREV ROSH HASHANAH SERVICE TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 ROSH HASHANAH SERVICES WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 SECOND DAY ROSH HASHANAH SERVICE YOM KIPPUR WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 KOL NIDRE SERVICE L’SHANAH TOVAH! THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 For more information on the High Holy Days, including service times, visit: YOM KIPPUR MORNING, MINCHA, www.tbam.org/HHD YIZKOR AND NEILAH SERVICES Page 3
TBAM717a_HHD21-Commentator-Aug21_8.5x5.5.indd 1 7/19/21 5:05 PM Commentator August 2021 • Page 4
From Strength to Strength Rabbi Jeremy Barras [email protected]
The Rambam – A Model for Bridging the Past and the Future There is a tradition in Judaism that synagogues should have two school so that it is well-equipped for the future of education, but doorways, one to enter before prayer and another to exit from at the same time remain connected to those who came before us. when prayer concludes. The purpose of the custom points to a This is the essence of who the Rambam was: one of our people’s very fundamental principle of Judaism; we as Jews are tied both greatest heroes and scholars who held firm to the traditions of to our past and to our future. We believe that the uniqueness Judaism while melding it appropriately with the wisdom of the of our past, the links that bond generation to generation all world around him. May the new Rambam Day School Temple the way back to Sinai, are what connect us to our tradition Beth Am likewise venture boldly into the future while always and forever remind us from where we came. At the same carrying the traditions and history of yesterday at her side. time, we read and re-read the Torah anew every year to try and understand how its lessons and dictums relate to our own L’shalom, milieu. We leave the synagogue from a different door because we believe that connecting with our ancient prayers transforms us and helps us understand the world in which we live. This Rabbi Jeremy Barras second door reminds us that the experience of prayer renews and revitalizes our souls and our outlook on the future.
There is no greater personification of this notion - that we as Jews must remain tethered to our past as we confront our future - than Rabbi Moses ben Maimon (known as Maimonides, meaning son of Maimon in Greek, and by the acronym Rambam). Rambam was raised in Cordoba, Spain where he was educated not only in Torah and Talmud, but also astronomy, medicine, mathematics and philosophy. He was particularly enamored with the philosophies of Aristotle and Plotinus, and became the first significant Jewish sage to incorporate Greek wisdom into his understanding of the Bible. Over the course of his life, he served Jewish communities as one of the most important and prolific scholars of his generation, and even endeavored to codify Jewish law for the first time into one 14-volume summary known as the Mishnah Torah. However, Rambam was not merely limited to Jewish scholarship. He served the greater population as a doctor, philosopher, political advisor and local legal authority. It was his unique way of combining Jewish history and thought with real world issues that led to his fame, and to his eventual position as the private personal doctor of the Sultan of Egypt.
As we unveil our new Day School to students this fall, there really is no greater name that symbolizes what Beth Am has always been and what it aspires to be. The Temple Beth Am Day School is one of the crown jewels of our community, and its success has always been based on Beth Am’s willingness to Join us for the Grand Opening of our look towards the future while remaining deeply connected to new school building on Sunday, our past. Rabbi Baumgard, z”l, knew how important a Day School would be to our future, and he knew that it would have August 22! See page 15 for details. to maintain the highest standards in every generation. Our Beyond the Curve Campaign has endeavored to rebuild our clergy corner Rabbi Jaime Aklepi [email protected]
Cohen and Goldstein sat in the same section of the sanctuary on the ever, the structure of having a month for introspection, repentance High Holy Days for over 25 years. Every year they would try to beat the and reconciliation will help us set a better course for the year other one to what they thought was the most desired aisle seat. Why ahead. Throughout other plagues, hardships, and calamities, the they wanted that particular seat, no one knew—not their wives, friends, Jewish people turned to this time as a period of hope. Even if the ushers, rabbi or cantor. But that seat became their ongoing struggle. One world continued to cause us fear and pain, anxiety and uncertainty, year, Mrs. Cohen said to her husband that his rivalry with Goldstein is individuals could change, end strife, make peace. ridiculous and embarrassing. Surprisingly, he agreed. When they got to the Temple on Rosh haShanah morning, Cohen approached Goldstein and Our sages teach that Elul is an acronym in Hebrew for “Ani l’dodi said, “It’s a new year, I’m changing my ways. Please take this seat, I want v’dodi li,” “I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine.” This verse you to have it.” Goldstein responded, “Thank you, I appreciate it. For the from the Song of Songs is frequently recited under the chuppah as a new year I wish for you all the things you wish for me!” At that remark, an sign of love and devotion. Traditionally, it is meant to describe the angry and red-faced Cohen replied, “I gave you the seat and you still want relationship between God and the Jewish people. As we begin Elul, to start a fight?” we can add another layer to the meaning of the verse. This year as we reflect on our lives and explore the changes that we want to This month begins the month of Elul, an entire month of make, see yourself as your own beloved. In that way, you will find preparation for the new year. It is the time we engage in cheshbon that you are worth changing for. hanefesh, an inventory of our behavior, deeds, desires, and hopes. It is the time of the year when we search our souls and account for our misdeeds or With blessings for a meaningful new year, sins. This year, a year in which days and months seemed to flow into each other, it might be more difficult to look back and distinguish the moments Rabbi Aklepi and the actions that caused us or others pain. We might even feel justified (more so than other years) because of our heightened fears and anxiety over the course of the pandemic. We might feel that until our lives are normal, we cannot do any soul searching. However, this year more than
WILL YOU BE OUT OF TOWN FOR THE HIGH HOLY DAYS?
Do you plan to be away for Rosh HaShanah and/or Yom Kippur and would like to worship at another temple? Temple Beth Am enjoys “reciprocity” with hundreds of temples nationwide. Please contact Mindy Robbin at 786.364.9446 or [email protected] as soon as possible and she will be happy to help you secure seats. There are some temples that “close out” their reciprocity tickets early!
Additionally, if you have someone visiting you for the holiday, who is a member in good standing at another temple, please contact Mindy, as well, so we may accommodate them.
Contact Mindy Robbin at 786.364.9446 or [email protected]
Page 5 Commentator August 2021 • Page 6
Message committee. In partnership with Lily, our Temple TreasurerAlex from the Krys, Past President Howard Wolofsky, and Arnaud Karsenti president continue to do an unbelievable job. David Young If you think our school is fabulous, our Cultural/Performing Arts Center and Athletic Center will be even more impressive. We still [email protected] anticipate its opening in late 2022.
Life has returned to Beth Am this summer, and we have Our congregants are making this dream a reality. I cannot thank much to celebrate. Shabbat services, b’nai mitzvah, Torah you enough. Study, and Minyan are all now live and in person. I hope you will join us as a community as we share our love for Judaism At the end of June, our community experienced a horrific loss and for each other. with the collapse of the Champlain Tower in Surfside. Our clergy immediately began consoling those in need in our congregation, Our 5th grade graduation at the Day School was inspiring, and were on the ground in Surfside consoling the community particularly coming after such a difficult year. We owe all of there as well. I have always said Beth Am is a family, and we will our teachers so much for sustaining our children through this always be there for each other. pandemic. They reinvented themselves overnight to teach in new ways, and their resourcefulness and dedication was It’s always important to express gratitude. We have so much to remarkable. be thankful for and I would love to share your simchas with our Beth Am family. Here’s one I just heard: Dolly Harris recently And wait ‘til you see what we have in store for you back on had three great-grandchildren born during the same week! Mazel campus. Our new cantor, Tifani Coyot, started in July. She Tov, Dolly! If you would like to share some excitement going on is talented, creative, and warm—and she wants to meet you in your life, please email me at [email protected]. all! If you want a sneak peek, go to Cantor Coyot’s Facebook page, check her out on Instagram, or look for her on YouTube It is a thrilling time for Beth Am! to listen to her amazing voice. Better yet, come to a Shabbat service! You really need to meet her in person to appreciate David her incredible personality. Over the next few months, we will be having several events for you to meet our newest clergy team member. Cantor Coyot will add a fantastic layer to Beth Am’s musical legacy.
You simply must see our new school building; it is MAzel Tov TO... spectacular, a true laboratory for 21st century learning. Edith Osman, recipient of the Greater Miami Jewish Our Honorary President Emerita, Lily Serviansky, leads Federation’s 2021 Community Service Award. Edith is an the Beyond the Curve campaign and spearheaded the effort attorney at Carlton Fields. to bring this building in on time and on budget. “This is a historical moment for our community,” Lily said. “The Steven and Tammy Klein on the engagement of their daughter opening of our school brings us pride, excitement, and an Carly to Danielle Greenbaum. Mazel Tov to her brother enormous sense of gratitude. The first part of our dream is David Klein. now a reality. We are truly blessed.” So true—we are blessed, indeed, to have a thriving community, outstanding volunteer Scott and Michelle Sarason on the engagement of their leadership, and dedicated clergy and staff. The official ribbon daughter Samantha to Brett Toister cutting ceremony, chaired byRichard and Colleen Fain, is set for August 22, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. I hope you will join Barbara Berman and the late Tod Berman on the wedding us. The Fains commented, “The synagogue, Day School and of son Brett Michael Berman to Camila Soares. Mazel Tov Religious School are more than just important parts of Jewish as well to Brett’s sister Candace Sheitelman and grandmother, life in our neighborhood. Together they form a holistic entity Tootsie Trager. which binds us together and provides an essential nucleus of a Jewish community. Beth Am in all its aspects is central to Jaimie Shepard Scheiner and Brett Scheiner on the birth of Jewish life in our area and we want to make sure it continues Gibson “Sunny” Miles Scheiner. Mazel Tov to grandparents and thrives.” Beautifully said. Donna and John Shepard, David and Joan Scheiner, and aunt Jillian Shepard. Special thanks to the members of our building steering Join us for an Evening of Celebrating Our Newest Members It is with great pleasure that we welcome each of our new members and their families. Celebrate together at a special Shabbat service where a blessing will be offered in their honor.
On Friday, September 24, at 5:30 p.m.
5:30 p.m.: Pre-Neg in the Sukkah sponsored by Latin Connection, featuring the taste and sounds of Latin America 6:30 p.m.: Shabbat Services in the Sanctuary
Following services, please join members of our Clergy and Beth Am community in the Social Hall for a delicious catered dinner.
*New members families are complimentary for dinner; RSVP a must!
We will enjoy a wonderful evening filled with music, fun and community. Children’s activities will be provided.
RSVP a must! www.tbam.org/sukkotdinner $36 adult/$18 teen/children under 2 complimentary You can reserve a table for your chavurah! Questions? Call Rita 786-364-9434
Invitations to follow. For more information, please call Rita Diaz, Membership Director 305.667.6667 ext. 107 or by email [email protected]
Open Bar *Dinner catered by Michael Meltzer
Page 7 Commentator August 2021 • Page 8 Membership Rita Diaz Membership Director [email protected]
Renew Your Membership for 2021-2022!
Dear Temple Beth Am Community, We are looking forward to an incredible year with wonderful services, programs and the High Holy Days when we are in our Sanctuary worshipping together. We will be relaunching our new Chavurah Connection, bringing you closer to our community. We are planning a new “Meet and Greet.”
Stay tuned for the details. We are anxious to share all this with you! Please take this opportunity, renew your membership at www.tbam.org or call me at 786.364.9434.
Rita Diaz Membership Director
PROSPECTIVE MEMBER WALKING TOUR AND LIGHT BREAKFAST Sunday, August 8 11:00 a.m. – noon TEMPLE BETH AM’S LOBBY AREA
Our members are our greatest ambassadors! Please invite your unaffiliated friends, family, neighbors and co-workers to join us for a light bagel breakfast on Sunday, August 8 at 11:00 a.m. They will hear about our membership incentives, our Get To Know Us first year membership, our Young Adult complimentary incentive and others. Bringing guests? I would love for you to join us on August 8 with them.
Please RSVP to Rita Diaz at 786.364.9434 or email [email protected] How Bout ShabbAt! JOIN US AT THE HAPPIEST PLACE ON EARTH At Temple Beth Am
With Special Guests Minnie Mouse and Mickey Mouse Friday, August 27 6:00 p.m. – Social Hall
Join us for a wonderful magical Shabbat service for our young families with Rabbi Rachel Greengrass and Cantorial Soloist Jackie Berney.
We are ready for a fun-filled evening with Mickey and Minnie. Meet your two favorite characters, take photos, and enjoy lots of arts and crafts for children of all ages.
Children 2 years of age and up - catered dinners individually boxed - $15
Wine bar for parents and grandparents RSVP A MUST www.tbam.org/mickey
Page 9 Commentator August 2021 • Page 10
Tamara Donnenfeld Director of Lifelong Learning [email protected]
THE POWER OF SHLICHUT Israel is an important focus at both the Day School and between Jews and Israel; and to promote an understanding of Religious School. Israel is not only celebrated at Yom Israel and its ideals. Ha-Atzma’ut but it is part of all grades’ curricula. History, geography, literature, and language are not only instructed Temple Beth Am has a long-standing commitment with Israel, but “lived” in the classrooms. both as a Miami community and as a synagogue. Both the synagogue and the schools are devoted partners to Israel. Head of Day School Nora Anderson and I believe in creating Thus, the thought of bringing ashaliach to our schools became strong and meaningful connections to the land of Israel and its an organic way to live our missions and convey a more people. We want Hebrew to be a spoken language, not just a sophisticated, personal, and relevant Israel to our students. means to pray. This year, Temple Beth Am schools will have its firstshlicha , Sahar Amiri. Sahar will be teaching in the Day School as To reflect our vision and have authentic Israeli voices, we well as the Religious School and will be involved in informal embarked on a collaborative project to bring an educator educational activities with our youth. Her presence will inspire shaliach (or shlicha) to teach in our schools. elementary school children and teens to forge a relationship with the people and land of Israel, and her interactions and What is an educator shaliach? conversations will help bridge the gap between Israel fact and • A shaliach/shlicha is an Israeli emissary who serves in Jewish fiction. communities and with Jewish organizations throughout the world. We are thrilled to welcome Sahar and her newlywed husband • They are young, idealistic, and dedicated Israelis who Or into our community. When you meet her, let us make sure have completed their military services and have degrees in we practice the mitzvah of hachnasat orchim, and we make education. them feel at home. Let’s extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to Sahar and Or to our Beth Am home! Shlichim get communities actively involved in securing a vital Jewish future by creating programming designed to increase Tamara Jewish awareness, knowledge, and pride; to bridge the gap
Meet our Shlicha, Sahar
My name is Sahar Amiri and I am excited to be your new Shlicha this year. I look forward to getting to know all of you. In the meantime, here is a little about me: I was born in Tel Aviv and grew up there. After high school I did my army service in the Ministry of Defense. I then studied Special Education in the Kibbutzim College of Education.
Since I graduated, I have worked in a school for Bedouin children in the Negev, teaching Hebrew as a second language, and now I am a Special Education teacher in high school. In my free time I like to do yoga, swim, watch a documentary or go outdoors to spend time in nature.
What I love most about Israel is that there are always new places to see and explore. You can always find a new site you have not been to. I also love that Israel is a country where you will always find good people along the way if you are in any trouble or need.
I look forward to meeting all of the children at Beth Am and the families in the community, building strong connections with them and helping them build their own connections to Israel and the Hebrew language.
Sahar Sumiko Zayon Youth Engagement Director [email protected]
New year, new opportunities I am excited to mark this moment of renewal as we resume in Please feel free to contact me via email (above) or phone person youth programming, and I begin my role as your new (786.364.9419) about any of the programs we have in store. Get Youth Engagement Director. ready for a wonderful year!
We want to make community engagement interesting and truly With love, worthwhile for our youth. We feel a profound responsibility Sumiko to instill a sense of community in their hearts, and we will be here to guide them in their Jewish journey by creating strong connections to their identity, Jewish heritage and Jewish community. As they create a strong sense of belonging and networks of Jewish friends, they will spontaneously develop a passion for Judaism.
Our BAFTY retreat, where our youth leaders brainstorm the upcoming experiences for our members, is around the corner. The teen leaders will be planning a wonderful year for all high school teens. We have exciting plans for each age group. BAFTY weekend outings, get together and retreats are back! Check out the Youth Engagement Program Guide for information about your child/teen programs.
This year we are introducing ourMachon Le Madrichim (Hebrew for “Institute for Youth Leaders”), a new twist to our Madrichim program. In Hebrew, the word madrichim means guides, trainers. A madrich is a youth leader, a role model and inspiration for the chanichim, (our students). We are redefining themadrich role in the school. We want the madrichim to be more than classroom assistants and train them to lead programs and create age-appropriate activities for the school. TheMachon will prepare the teens with the tools and skills they need to succeed in leadership, and in their lives in general. “You shall teach them the derech (path) in which they shall go” (Exodus 18:20). We want them to step up and make a difference. If your teen is in 9th grade or in high school, they can register to this program. TheMachon Le Madrichim runs on Sunday mornings during the school year. Community service hours are awarded to participating teens.
Page 11 Commentator August 2021 • Page 12 programming Andrea LeVine Program Director [email protected]
Jewish Mysticism and the Spiritual Life: Classical Texts, Contemporary Reflections Tuesdays at noon in Meeting Room 3 12 sessions starting August 10
Curious about Kabbalah? Yearning for transcendence? Hungry for lunch? Join Rabbi Rachel Greengrass on Tuesdays at noon for Reading with the Rabbi’s latest book: Jewish Mysticism and the Spiritual Life. This anthology of essays, edited by Lawrence Fine, Eitan Fishbane, and Or N. Rose, includes leading scholars and teachers in the field of Kabbalah as they share their favorite texts of the Jewish mystical tradition and explore why these materials are meaningful and relevant to us today.
RSVP: www.tbam.org/readingrabbi S’Lichot 5782 The Toll of Antisemitism on the Soul SATURDAY, AUGUST 28 at 6:00 PM FESTIVE DINNER TO FOLLOW HAVDALAH AND S’LICHOT SERVICE AT 8:00 PM Throughout the month of Elul, we are asked to search our souls and reflect on the year in preparation for the repentance and renewal we seek over the High Holy Days. After an intense and eventful year in which we have seen a disturbing uptick in online and real-world incidents of antisemitism, we invite you to this powerful program in which we will explore the impact of antisemitism on the soul. We welcome special guests from ADL Florida in conversation with our clergy team to help us unpack these trends, and better understand how we internalize them. Join with us in solidarity as a Jewish community in anticipation of the High Holy Day season. RSVP at www.tbam.org/slichot TEMPLE BETH AM’S Recovery Through a Jewish Lens Recovery Through A Jewish Lens is Temple Beth Am’s response of support to those in recovery from addiction, their families and allies. It is the way we work to end the stigma of addiction so Jews can feel welcome, accepted, supported and cared for by their Temple community. Our Second Sunday Serenity Jewish Recovery support group continues to meet throughout summer! Sunday, August 8, 2021 10:00 am – 11:15 am Please contact Rabbi Aklepi with Anonymity will be observed. any questions at RSVP to Mindy Robbin at [email protected]. [email protected]
TEMPLE BETH AM’S CONGREGATIONALCONGREGATIONAL LIBRARYLIBRARY As so many of us have experienced, our Temple’s adult collection library has functioned only by Zoom for the last year and a half. We are now are in the process of relocating our books so that we can continue in the near future to operate as a more effective library. We look forward to continuing to provide materials of education, entertainment and enrichment for congregation and community.
Please note that our Sunday Salon Series will resume on September 12th with a special High Holy Day presentation by Dr. Abe Benyunes, and September 26th with Libby Copeland ‘s marvelous DNA program. This program is being brought to us by the Jewish Genealogical Society of Greater Miami.
During our summer break in library programming, I was fortunate to attend the Association of Jewish Libraries’ 56th conference this past June, which has been digital for the past two years. Over 340 people participated in the AJL 2021 Digital Conference from across the United States as well as Austria, Barbados, Canada, Ecuador, Germany, Hungary, Israel, the Netherlands, Russia, Serbia, South Africa, Spain, and the United Kingdom. AJL is the leading authority on Judaic librarianship. AJL has always been a vibrant volunteer-run non-profit organization that relies on its members’ energy and enthusiasm. Our membership includes libraries Association of Jewish Libraries in synagogues, Jewish Community Centers, day schools, yeshivot, universities, Holocaust museums, www.jewishlibraries.org museums, archives, national libraries, and public libraries. For any questions about the Congregational Library and its programming, contact Etta Gold MLS RJE, Congregational Librarian. Contact Etta at [email protected]
Page 13 Commentator August 2021 • Page 14 Shabbat unplugged AN INTIMATE, COFFEE HOUSE-STYLE ONEG Friday August 6th 7:45 pm Chapel
Stick around immediately following Shabbat services to unplug and unwind with:
Rabbi Jaime Aklepi Cantor Tifani Coyot an amazing lineup of some of Beth Am’s most talented members
Immerse yourself in acoustic music as we come together to kick off a restful Shabbat with some noshes, some java, and some relaxing Shabbat vibes.
www.tbam.org/coffeehouse GRAND OPENING utting Ceremony Join us for the Ribbon C
AUGUST 22, 2021 4:00 PM
KINDLY RSVP BY FRIDAY, AUGUST 13TH
Event Chairs Colleen and Richard Fain
WWW.TBAM.ORG/RIBBONCUTTING
The health and safety of our community are our number one priority. In light of our school’s COVID-19 guidelines, masks are required for all attendees. Page 15
TBAM718a_Opening21_Comm_AUG21-FINAL.indd 1 7/19/21 5:03 PM Commentator August 2021 • Page 16
Grand Opening of Rambam Day School Building at Temple Beth Am
MARK YOUR CALENDARS AND JOIN US ON SUNDAY, AUGUST 22, 2021 4:00 PM for our Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony RSVPs are a must
Rambam Day School, Temple Beth Am, will officially open its doors on Monday, August 23, welcoming back our students for what promises to be an exciting year of learning. Our kids will continue to receive the highest quality education in the most innovative and beautiful space; under the caring hands of our most wonderful teachers and administrators. Our school is now at the forefront of curriculum in a state-of-the-art facilities. The new school building will be home for our religious school where many new and creative programs will be introduced, to continue with our commitment to bring our kids the best Jewish education.
We are thrilled to commemorate this achievement and milestone in Temple Beth Am’s history together, and in person. Thank you to all our donors, leaders, and supporters who have joined us and made this happen.
This monumental achievement completes Phase I of our project. Including the outdoor basketball court and one playground. We are on the halfway mark of a long race. This is the time to celebrate, to energize, and to keep heading towards the finish line. PHASE 2 COMING SOON!
THIS SUMMER we began construction on our second building, our Phase 2. Our partners, Amicon Management and Moss Construction have been hard at work. While our families were away from our campus, enormous progress was made. The remaining three school buildings were demolished. The south parking lot was re-paved. They prepared the site for the official Groundbreaking after the High Holy Days.
The activity and cultural center will be the jewel on our campus and will serve as a gathering space, meeting space, and foster a lifelong connection to Beth Am, our community, Judaism, and Israel.
Phase 2 will be the home to our state-of-the-art: PERFORMING ARTS CENTER/ CHAPEL SCHOOL LUNCHROOM/ EVENT SPACE OUTDOOR CULTURAL LIFE CENTER ADULT READING ROOM TOP NOSH CAFÉ HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE PLAZA INDOOR ATHLETIC FACILITY AND SO MUCH MORE… INSTRUCTIONAL POOL
This is a once in a generation opportunity and we cannot get to the finish line without you. We have raised $46 million of our $55 million goal. HELP US BRING IT HOME BETH AM
TO JOIN US, CONTACT Page 17 Ilana Gilat, Development Director, at [email protected] or 786.364.9429 TBAM.ORG/BEYONDTHECURVE Commentator August 2021 • Page 18 Campus ActivitieS Michelle Cohen Campus Activities Director [email protected]
GET READY FOR THE RETURN OF
Our Fall League Welcomes... GIRLS BOYS 4th-8th Grade 4th-9th Grade Save-the-Date for Basketball Evaluations: August 28th and 29th
For the most up-to-date information on registration and scheduling, visit our website at tbam.org/basketball * Fall league schedule subject to change based on TBAM COVID-19 policies and CDC guidelines. MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY ELEMENTARY ELEMENTARY ELEMENTARY ELEMENTARY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CLASSES SCHOOL CLASSES SCHOOL CLASSES SCHOOL CLASSES SCHOOL CLASSES 3:45 p.m.-4:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m.-4:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m.-4:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m.-4:45 p.m. 2:45 p.m.-3:45 p.m.
Dunk & Dribble Yoga Flag Football ASU Basketball League ASU Golf (K-5th Grade) (K-5th Grade) (K-5th Grade) (1st-3rd Grade) (K-5th Grade)
Miami Hype Volleyball Shahbaz Elite Basketball Musical Theater ASU Karate Dunk & Dribble (K-5th Grade) Experience...Train like (Pinocchio, JR.) (K-5th Grade) (K-5th Grade) the NBA (2nd-5th Grade) Musical Theater (1st-5th Grade) ASU Slime Club ASU Hip Hop (K-1st Grade) Aftercare (K-2nd Grade) (K-5th Grade) Winnie the Pooh ASU Super Soccer Stars (K-5th Grade) (K-3rd Grade) Cheerleading ASU Super Soccer Stars Aftercare (K-5th Grade) (K-3rd Grade) (K-5th Grade) Aftercare (K-5th Grade) Aftercare Aftercare (K-5th Grade) (K-5th Grade) EARLY CHILDHOOD EARLY CHILDHOOD CLASSES EARLY CHILDHOOD EARLY CHILDHOOD CLASSES 3:30 p.m.-4:15 p.m. CLASSES CLASSES 3:30 p.m.-4:15 p.m. EARLY CHILDHOOD 3:30 p.m.-4:15 p.m. Dunk & Dribble 3:30 p.m.-4:15 p.m. CLASSES Dunk & Dribble (PK) 2:30 p.m.-3:15 p.m. Teeny Tiny Hip Hop Mini Hip Hop (PK) (PN-N) Mini Hoops (PK) ASU Golf (Pre-Nursery – Nursery) Fun with Animals Yoga (PK) ASU Karate (PN-PK) (PK) Nature Club (PK) Mini Ballerinas (Nursery – PK) Mini Hoops ASU Super Soccer Stars (Pre-Nursery–PK) Slime Club (Pre-Nursery – Nursery) (Pre-Nursery – PK) (must be 3 years old and Early Childhood (PK) potty trained) Aftercare Early Childhood Early Childhood (Jr. Pre-Nursery–PK) Early Childhood Dunk & Dribble Aftercare Aftercare Aftercare (PK) (Jr. Pre-Nursery – PK) (Jr. Pre-Nursery – PK) (Jr. Pre-Nursery–PK) ASU Super Soccer Stars (Pre-Nursery – PK)
Early Childhood Aftercare (Jr. Pre-Nursery–PK)
Important Program Notes: *Fall Classes will be offered based on the re-opening of the day school and its rules and current CDC Guidelines **Fall Classes are subject to change without notice ***For more information, to register online and to view the class descriptions, please visit our website at www.tbam.org/afterschool ****Each Child registered for 3 or more classes during the semester will receive an automatic 15% discount on their total registration fees at checkout
Page 19 Commentator May 2021 • Page 20 MAZEL TOV B'NAI MITZVAH Archer Spann August 12, 2021 Archer is looking forward to beginning 8th grade at Palmetto Middle School. Archer is a compassionate, witty and kind friend, brother and son. He enjoys playing guitar, Minecraft and spending time with his puppy, Skye Mae. For his mitzvah project, Archer is collecting children’s bike helmets to promote bike safety awareness. His parents, Melissa and Steve, and sister Violet are so proud of him, and are excited to be celebrating him and his accomplishments.
Dennis Gerzvolf August 14, 2021 Dennis is a fighter that came to this world with a purpose: to live with intention, break the norm and be the owner of his own destiny. Dennis is a 7th grade student at Eugenia B. Thomas School. He is an amazing son we can always count on. He is a supportive brother, a loyal friend, an amazing gamer, and a fearless athlete. His family is very proud of his accomplishments and look forward to celebrate his special day.
Chase Dubovy August 21, 2021 Chase is an honor student at Ransom Everglades and a graduate of Temple Beth Am Day School. Postponing his bar mitzvah for a year due to the pandemic, he is proud to finally be able to publicly observe the commandments while still in his 13th year. In his free time, Chase is a dedicated athlete and avid soccer player, who proudly served as a captain and goalie of the RE soccer team. He loves to study history and competes in history and academic competitions, and won third place in the nation with his RE team this year. Chase’s parents, siblings, and entire family are very proud of Chase’s accomplishments and look forward to celebrating this special day.
Zachary Schatzman August 21, 2021 Zack is a rising 8th grade student at Ransom Everglades School and a graduate of Temple Beth Am Day School. He is easy-going, fun-loving and witty. He loves all things sports including playing basketball, football, lacrosse, and skiing. He also enjoys video games and is a big Dolphins, Heat, and Gator fan. His parents, Jackie and Darin, and sister Ava are incredibly proud of him and look forward to celebrating his bar mitzvah.
Maya Altman August 28, 2021 Maya is a graduate of Temple Beth Am Day School and an eighth grade Honors student at Gulliver Preparatory School. She is a proud recipient of the Gulliver Citizenship Award, and a dedicated student and friend. Maya is passionate about musical theater and acting, and shines on and off the stage. She is genuinely caring, kind, loyal and sincere. Maya’s parentsCari and Michael, brother Gavin, grandparents, and extended family are so proud of her accomplishments leading up to this special day! TBAM406a_Patio_BTS_Comm_AUG21-FINAL.indd 1 7/19/21 5:10 PM Commentator August 2021 • Page 22 Becoming Visible THE POWER OF MUSIC IN A WORLD OF HURT
Welcome to this month’s installment of Becoming Visible, a project which aims to build awareness as we look to learn from each other by sharing our stories of inclusion for and from anyone with disabilities. Whether one’s challenges are visible or invisible, short term or long term, physical, emotional, or fit into one of many other categories, we intend to better understand the experiences of people with disabilities, and of people who can help make a difference. Mental Health & The Power of Music When you name your band for mental health, especially related to reducing the stigma. Susan FogDog, it is a given that you will Racher was instrumental in restarting the languishing National be explaining the name over and Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) Miami chapter in 2015. Susan is the over again, and that’s just fine volunteer President of the Board at NAMI, which rapidly became a with Matt Racher. A determined thriving organization. advocate for awareness and Now 35, Matt is stable and is studying for his Master of Social Work education regarding mental Degree. He and his friend Carlos Larrauri created their band FogDog health challenges, Matt explains after discovering a mutual love for soulful music and a shared that “fogdog” refers to the light passion for speaking up about psychosis. Their original compositions that breaks through a fog bank, share messages that everyone matters, and that we each have the much like hope emerging from the ability to inspire growth and healing. The band fog of psychosis, a mental health challenge characterized by a loss plays at conferences, small club settings, and of touch with reality. other places – all in their commitment to reduce stigma and shame, to ultimately address the Thank goodness for people like Matt Racher. His willingness to secrets that keep people mired in the depths of speak up and share his personal experiences qualify him as a true their mental health challenges. Matt’s journey mensch, a man willing to be vulnerable and sacrifice some privacy to discovering music as a source of sharing and to help others. He knows his lived experience with a mental health healing, while taking on responsibility for those challenge lets others know they are not alone, and that the future who are suffering in our community, reminds can look bright. us that music is key to our Jewish tradition. It Matt was a Beth Am kid; he attended religious school, Hebrew encourages and inspires us to engage in sacred work, to ponder, High School, Confirmation, and was in Bafty. As he became older, reflect, and be inspired to be present for our community. he struggled with depression and substance abuse. In 2011, while As Matt says, “Our music is a free and open medium for expressing attending college locally, Matt began to experience psychotic thoughts and feelings. When I pick up a guitar or write songs, it episodes with deep, dark unraveling thoughts. He shares that one can feel like therapy.” Matt sets an example for how anyone and moment he might have been consumed by fear of persecution in a everyone can step up to make a difference for others. fiery hell, and in the next moment he was a divine being, with powers View FogDog’s performances: www.fogdogmusic.net that could control the rain. Learn about NAMI Miami programs: www.namimiami.org Determined to help their son, his parents Susan and David Racher welcomed Matt home and began a journey to find guidance and P.S. NAMI is the largest peer to peer based mental health organization help for his illness. The Rachers are long-term members of Beth Am in the US and provides free support groups and education that for 33 years, always involved, and now their focus is on advocacy complements clinical therapy.
Whatever challenges you or your loved ones face that make it increasingly difficult to feel like a full-fledged participant in the world — we want to hear your story: how did you overcome a challenge? How did someone else help you? How were you able to help someone else? Just tell us about your experiences — we’ll write it for you! Your story will empower others to share their stories, and as we strengthen our connection to each other, we strengthen our entire community.
Contact Andrea LeVine at [email protected] so we can talk.
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Dear Sisters, I hope you’ve all had a safe and wonderful summer. Hopefully, you’ve had a chance to travel and reunite with family and friends. Sharing both tears and laughter with our loved ones is so heartwarming and so needed for our souls. As this article goes to print, I should be in Colorado and Los Angeles visiting my children and family who are on the West Coast. I am so grateful for the chance to hug and squeeze them one more time.
Our Sisterhood board is brainstorming and gearing up for the upcoming year. We are coming up with a robust calendar of meaningful and engaging programs to appeal to a variety of interests. If you have an idea for a program, please reach out to me at [email protected]. We will be meeting in person but will still offer Zoom if there is a demand for it. Either way, Sisterhood will be here for you to learn, socialize and work together as we do every year.
It is that time of year again to ask you to either join Sisterhood or renew your Sisterhood membership. Your financial support allows us to fund various Tikkun Olam projects in our community as well as our own synagogue. You can do so by completing the pamphlet that was included in your membership packet, by logging onto tbam.org/joinsisterhood, or by contacting Aida Littauer at alittauer@tbam. org. There are three different levels of membership:
Leah: $54 | Rachel: $118 | Sarah: $180 PLEASE JOIN US!
Please note on your calendars that our opening event this year will be on Thursday, October 14, 2021. Janet Kelfer and Sheri Lieberman have been planning this fabulous event and the details will be revealed very soon. As always, this event is free to all paid up members for 2021-2022.
I would like to wish all of our Beth Am families L’shanah Tovah. I hope for peace and an especially sweet and healthy new year for each and every one of you.
DILIA GROSSMAN Sisterhood President
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 SISTERHOOD OPENING EVENT All Dressed Up (and finally) Someplace To Go! THURSDAY, OCTOBER 14 6:30 PM The Sisterhood of Temple Beth Am cordially invites you to enjoy an evening of mingling, entertainment, and delicious food as we finally reconnect with our sisters in person! Let us entertain you with Jewish humor and music, as well as a festive dinner and drinks, including our signature Sistertini! We will continue to monitor CDC guidelines as we plan for this exciting event to ensure a fun and safe evening for all.
Sisterhood Movie Club MONDAY, AUGUST 23RD 7:00 pm The featured movie we are discussing is The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020), written and directed by Aaron Sorkin and based on actual events. The film follows the trial stemming from various charges surrounding the uprising at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. When first envisioned, the protest accompanying the convention was intended to be a peaceful protest of the war, until a riot broke out between protesters and the police. It stars Eddie Redmayne, Alex Sharp, Sacha Baron Cohen, Jeremy Strong, Mark Rylance and Joseph Gordon Levitt. Etta Gold will lead the discussion. Nominated for several Academy Awards, including a Best Supporting Actor nomination for Sacha Baron Cohen as Abbie Hoffman, and is available to stream on Netflix. RSVP at www.tbam.org/movieclub Page 25 Commentator August 2021 • Page 26
BACK-TO-SCHOOL DRIVE-THRU VOLUNTEER WITH THE UNITED WAY SCHOOL SUPPLIES DRIVE Saturday, August 14 United Way is looking for volunteers to help put together Sunday, August 8 kits from all donations received. If you are interested, please 12-1pm | Covered Driveway at Temple Beth Am contact Shelley Jacoby at [email protected] Help to make back-to-school a success for children who need supplies. Support the efforts of United Way Miami on August 8th by dropping off new school supplies at Temple Beth Am. You can use the link below and simply order the items from their Amazon wish list.
For United Way’s 2021 School Supplies Amazon Wish List go to https://a.co/2ZRPa5N
— CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS! TWO OPPORTUNITIES TO DO A MITZVAH!—
JCS MILK & HONEY PRE-EVENT PACKING JCS MILK & HONEY DISTRIBUTION Wednesday, August 18, 2021 Sunday, August 22, 2021 Assemble food & toiletry baskets. Drive-thru and deliver food & toiletry baskets.
REGISTRATION jcsfl.org/events/jcs-milk-honey-2021
QUESTIONS ABOUT VOLUNTEERING? Please contact Jocelyn Kinzer at [email protected] or 786.866.2212.
For event, sponsorship, or donation information, please contact Morgan Weinblatt at 305.403.6570 [email protected] — ANNUAL HIGH HOLY DAY FOOD DRIVE —
DRIVE-THRU FOOD DRIVE FOOD DRIVE Sunday, September 12, 2021 Thursday, September 16, 2021 Drop off kosher food donations from 1pm-3pm, Drop off kosher food donations at sanctuary covered driveway at Temple Beth Am. lobby before Yom Kippur services.
The Tikkun Olam Committee will collect food staples for those in need and donate to the Jewish Community Services (JCS) Kosher Food Bank - the only food bank in Miami-Dade County to which those who observe kosher (kashrut) dietary laws can turn. JCS’ Kosher Food Bank provides food to more than 400 families and nearly 100 Holocaust survivors. Please fill any shopping bag with kosher items and bring to Temple Beth Am on September 12 during the Drive-Thru Food Drive or on September 16 before Yom Kippur services. Your act of kindness means so much. Please check our website for details at www.tbam.org/hhd.
The JCS has families in the South Dade area who are unable to get to the North Miami shopping location. Anyone interested in “adopting” a family please reach out to Shelley Jacoby at [email protected] for more details.
— THERE IS SO MUCH FOOD INSECURITY — IF YOU WANT TO GIVE BACK IN THE COMMUNITY, HERE ARE SOME VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE:
JCS KOSHER FOOD BANK Reach out to Bonnie Schwartzbaum at [email protected] for opportunities to volunteer in the warehouse stocking shelves, assisting shoppers, bagging items or picking up donated items for delivery
CAMILLUS HOUSE Help organize and serve meals. Reach out to [email protected]
LOTUS HOUSE Sponsor lunch or dinner and help serve in the kitchen. Reach out to [email protected] or [email protected]
CHAPMAN PARTNERSHIP Reach out to Candace at [email protected]
A MESSAGE FROM THE RAC-FL LEADERSHIP TEAM (RELIGIOUS ACTION CENTER OF REFORM JUDAISM) As a Movement, we are engaging in a strategy to meet with U.S. Senators to advocate for two bills that, if passed, will strengthen democracy and racial justice by protecting the right to vote and helping to dismantle a system that has long prevented every voice from being heard in the voting booth. You can take action through this campaign by signing up to participate in a virtual Senate lobby meeting as part of our Florida delegation! Fill out the Lobby Meeting Interest Form at https://urj.tfaforms.net/613 to let us know what role you would like to play, and we will follow up with you with more details.
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One of our most important traditions–an obligation to give, each in our own way, to help others. It is what makes us a strong, a united and a just people. Thank you for supporting Temple Beth Am on the Committee of 100 levels and making membership affordable to all. CIRCLE OF LIFE *Jorge Garcia-Rubio & Sylvia Brener *Todd Michaels Richard & Colleen Fain David & Donna Buchwald Marc & Marian Milgram *Jeremy & Katrin Katz *Zachary & Alexandra Calinoff Spencer & Maria Morgan Jon & Tina Kislak William & Bobbie Cohen Alexander & Lily Moskovitz Leslie Miller Saiontz *Douglas Cox & Nicole Pearl *Michael & Caryn Musaffi Richard Yulman *Guillermo & Ashley Drew-Bear Craig & Deirdre Nash *Bernard & Liliane Eckstein Judith Ratzan CIRCLE OF BLESSING Victor & Eileen Faradji Terry & Marcia Reisman David & Beth Ertel Dan & Julianne Farkas Alan Rosenthal *Roberto & Betty Horwitz *Cary Rosenwald & Victoria Flynn Bob & Susan Rosenthal *Michael & Valerie Katz David & Linda Frankel Richard & Cessy Rubinson Dick & Susan Lampen *Ricardo & Daniela Freund Gilbert & Diane Sandler David & Lily Serviansky Mark & Belinda Gilbert Gary & Lisa Saul *Benjamin & Jessie Gliklich David & Joan Scheiner RABBIS HONOR CIRCLE *Marc & Myriam Grad *Michael & Katie Scheiner Alan & Jayusia Bernstein *Lisa Green Andrew & Jacqueline Schimel *Jonathan & Rachel Fayman *Bion Bartning & Marina Greene Howard & Jill Schwartz David & Stacey Leibowitz Renee Gross Allan & Sarah Serviansky *Mara Mades Bob & Shelly Grossman *Jeffrey & Helenann Shapiro Harvey Gurland, Jr. Ruth Shere & Jessica Coggins PRESIDENTS HONOR CIRCLE & Carolina Gurland *Michael & Alison Simon Gary & Barbara Davis Jay & Sandy Halpern Brad & Lauren Sokol Charlene Esserman Bernie & Deborah Harris Steven & Staci Solomon *Jason & Laura Haim Mark & Helen Hauser Brian & Meryl Spector Scott & Michelle Sarason *Jack & Shirley Kaplan Scott Squires & Danielle Katz Squires *Ethan & Amy Shapiro Ira & Randye Karmin Cliff & Shelly Stamler Richard & Jackie Siegel Ezra & Tati Katz Joshua & Kerri Stone *Lindsay Spalding-Steven Bruce Kohrman & Diane Krieger Richard & Pamela Strassberg & Julie Spalding-Steven Frank & Helene Kronberg Dan & April Stuzin Robert & Michele Stone *Richard & Alexis Kulick John & Jo Sumberg *Gary & Mariana Trief *Taylor & Nessia Kushner Harold & Flippy Tanenbaum Howard & Linda Landy Harley & Sherry Tropin COMMITTEE OF 100 Eric Levin Danny & Elise van der Reis *Jeremy & Astrid Arditi *Erika Litvak Howard & Suzanne Wallach Anthony & Lisa Askowitz Jeffrey & Rebecca Mandler Walter & Michelle Weber Evelyn K. Axler Jay & Lisa Massirman Michael & Julie Weiser Jill Nexon Berman & Michael Elmaleh Jim & Carol Mattei *David Young & Scott Bernstein David & Alison Bernstein Michael & Starr Mautner Steve & Adrienne Messing
*new to this level Renewals reflect through June 24. By Dr. Lenore C. Kipper, RJE, Judaic Studies Director, Emerita Tanach, The Jewish Bible Tanach is the Hebrew acronym for the three sections of the Jewish Bible, representing Torah, the five books of Moses, N’vee-im, the books of the Prophets, and K’tu-vim, the Writings. The stories of Abraham, Sara, Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, Leah and Rachel, Joseph and Moses are familiar ones that we read about every year as we go through the weekly Torah readings. I am going to dedicate this page this year to the other books of the Tanach. The last book of the Torah, Deuteronomy, D’va-rim, ends with the death of Moses and the mantle of leadership is passed on to Joshua as the Israelites are ready to enter the promised land, Eretz Yisrael.
The Book of Joshua as miracles, so too is the conquest of Jericho. According to Harry Orlinsky, there is a difference of opinion between the We are first introduced to Joshua, son of Nun, in the Book of book of Joshua and the book of Judges about the conquests and Exodus. He is described as a courageous leader who supports the length of time it took to settle the land. Nevertheless, there Moses, and who later gives Moses an optimistic view of the land is verification that the Canaanite cities were destroyed during when he and the other tribal leaders return from scouting out the time between the 13th and 11th centures BCE. The dramatic the territory. The great task for Joshua was to enter the land, story of Jericho became an important historical experience and conquer and settle it. Joshua was a seasoned military leader who memory of the Jewish People. had confidence and passion. After the death of Moses, the book of Joshua tells us that God spoke to Joshua: “…be strong and of After Jericho good courage, for you shall cause this people to possess the land which I swore to their fathers..be ever mindful to observe the law… Joshua continues to lead the Israelites to other locations like you shall study it day and night that you may observe all that is Gilgal and Ai. Joshua builds an altar to God there. Hazor, in written in it;…then you shall make your ways prosperous, and you the north, is one of the last conquests. Joshua divides all the shall have good success.” The Israelites pledged to follow Joshua. territory among the twelve tribes of Israel. When you see this on a map you understand why both sides of the Jordan River Joshua and Jericho were considered part of ancient Israel. Before Joshua died, he assembled the people at Shechem to renew the covenant Jericho is located near the Jordan River crossing on the way relationship between the Israelites and Adonai. His mission was to Jerusalem, and it has always had strategic importance. It complete. He had led the people in their battles to possess the is an oasis in the Judean wilderness, and it is considered one land, and he had established them in their land, and he renewed of the earliest known cities of the region, according to the the covenant. He warned the people that they would have to archeological excavations. It is four miles west of the Jordan obey God’s commandments in order to continue receiving River, north of the Dead Sea, and 750 feet below sea level. God’s protection and favor. Would they be willing to do this? The book of Joshua tells us that Joshua sent two spies to scout The text tells us they responded positively:“We will never Jericho, which was a fortressed walled city. They are hidden by abandon Adonai to worship other gods!” a woman, Rahab, who makes them promise that her family will be spared when they capture Jericho. Joshua leads the Israelites Commentary marching around the city silently for seven days. On the seventh day, they are ordered to blow rams’ horns and shout, The book of Joshua, probably written hundreds of years after and the walls came tumbling down. Did this really happen? We the events it describes, presents us with an idealized picture have only the account as described in the book of Joshua: of what rewards devotion to God brought the Israelites. According to one author, Carl Ehrlich, it is making a religious “Thus you shall do for six days. Seven priests shall bear seven statement more than the most accurate historical account. The rams’ horns, and the trumpets shall go before the Ark, and on the next book of Judges (next month) gives us a better description seventh day, you shall go around the city seven times, while the of the historical circumstances connected with the rise of Israel priests blow on the rams’ horns. On the seventh day they arose at in Canaan. the break of dawn and encircled the city in the same way seven times. On the seventh time, the priests blew on their rams’ horns, Are you ready to read the full text of the book of Joshua? Do and Joshua said to the people, Shout, because Adonai has given it with a biblical map. It is the first book of the second section, you the city! The people shouted and blew on the rams’ horns. Prophets, in the Tanach. Go and read! When the people heard the sound of the rams’ horns, they gave a mighty shout, and the wall came tumbling down. The people went L’shalom, up into the city, and they captured the city.” (Joshuah 6-20) Why was this story included as the first battle that the Israelites Lenore won? The text gives us a clue:“Shout, because Adonai has given you the city!” The Israelites did not conquer the land on their own. Just as the miracles of leaving Egypt are perceived
Page 29 Commentator August 2021 • Page 30 new members Brad and Jennifer Asher, Eden and Levi Michael and Caryn Musaffi, Logan, Luke and Brody Bion Bartning and Marina Greene, and Olivia and Asher Jake and Emma Pasternack, Mia and Ava Zachary and Alexandra Calinoff, Perri, Taylor Eric Rosenthal and Patricia Artieda, Joaquin and Davis and Mateo Morgan and Olivia Cardet and Lucy Jaime Rubinson and Ami Shasoua, Donna, Ronnie David and Jamie Chesner and Leighton and Sky Douglas Cox and Nicole Pearl and Scarlett and Elliot Michael and Katie Scheiner, Sadie, Ava and Maxwell Daniel and Allison Doddo and Emma David and Ilana Snider and Ruben Ashley and Guillermo Drew-Bear, and Isabella Jeremy and Ariella Standiford and Stella and Charles Jordan and Amy Tolman, Rory and Hadley Bernard and Liliane Eckstein Jonathan and Rachel Fayman, Jack and Gabriel *returning member Cary Rosenwald Victoria Flynn, and Ellie, Ethan and Evan Alexis and Tracy Garcia, Noa and Ozi Elizabeth Garcia Craig and Jeri Green, Aria and Cleo Michael and Amy Gross, and Livia, Zoe and Estelle *Steve and Lori Grussmark Joshua and Ana V. Harris, and Jacob, Benjamin, Eleanor and Joanna Roberto and Betty Horwitz Lauren Isen, Asher and Zoe Jeremy and Katrin Katz, and Tova, Hannah, Jacob and Noah Sandra Krauthamer and Jonathan Dunn and Emma Linda Krouner Taylor and Nessia Kushner and Perri, Jack and Oliver Kailey Mesquita and Alma —Save the Date—
Monday, November 15, 2021 DEERING BAY YACHT AND COUNTRY CLUB
t b a m . o r g / g o l f Page 31 Commentator August 2021 • Page 32
WEEK ENDING Benjamin Stein* WEEK ENDING WEEK ENDING AUGUST 6, 2021 Alter Naftula Szaniecki AUGUST 20, 2021 AUGUST 27, 2021 Irving Tenzer* Milton Agron Mildred Weiss Irwin Adelson Rachel Adler* Jeanette Axler* Philip Apfelberg Lottie T. Adler* Peter H. Ballen, MD WEEK ENDING Louis Appel* Sylvia Angel Harold Berke AUGUST 13, 2021 Zan Tamar Bailey* Shirley Antkies Norma May Blasberg Michael Jon Barlin Solomon Aronson Samuel Bohm Shirlee Sherman Abraham Ray Benyunes Elsie Artzt* Harry Boosin* Esther Adelson Mendel Berman* Rubin Axler* Jeanette Brodkey David Aibel Adele “Dellie” Bernstein Norma Berger* Edward Brooks* Dustin Aiken Ida Chudler* Muriel Bernstein* Mollie Cooper Alan L. Bisno, MD* Sandra Colsky* Rose Cohen* Dr. Robert Davidoff David Brand Barbara Colton Louis Danziger Carl Deutsch Edward Brown* Toby Dachs Berl Donnenfeld Sarah Diamond* Sidney Burk* Gertrude Diamond* Eugene Dynner* Dr. Menachem Distenfeld George Chudler* Ned J. Edelman* Saul Erdman Jean Dresner Muriel Cohen Harry David Einhorn* Dr. Nathanial L. Feldman* David Drucker Maurice Cromer Jerry Einstandig Sadie Finkelstein* Alice Eggers Yetta DeBarge Ilona Engel* Jack Fishman Arthur J. England, Jr. Ruth Musman Dickson* Herman Gorden Moshe Gabbay Marie Eskenazi* Dr. Samuel E. Ditkowsky* Marcia Greenberg* Albert Goldenstein Seymour Fein Richard Feder Jill Greeenwald Elinor Gura* Nathan Fein* Ernestine R. Germain Eunice Groff Arleen Halbrich* Beverly Fein Steven Gluckstern Morris Gross Florence Hecht Allan Gerson* Sari Gold* Marilyn June Jacoby* Ellen Heilig Harold Greenberg* Goldie Goldner Enid Kaplan Nelda Josepher Rabbi Isidore Greengrass Benjamin Graff* Donald Klein* Agnes Klappstein* David Gregg Leona Green Evelyn Koch Norman Kohl Julius Haber Albert Grubair* Anne Kravetz Phyllis Krug Memory Ernest Harris* Florence Harris Sam Kurland* Ethel Krulewitch* Israel Kallechstein* Ray Hayet* Zelda Levine* Daniel Lebenstein Hattie Kaminsky Mechlouitz Eileen Hirsch Esther Lewis* Charles Leshaw* David Kanter Beverly Hauser* Sara Lipsky* Donald Levey Leonard Kaplan* Irvin Katz Edith Markenson* Harry Levy* Dr. Robert B. Katims* Marilyn Sable Kaufman* Jacqueline Markowitz Anna Lipoff* Paula Katz Jean Keller Irving E. Miller* Jeannette F. Mintz* Howard Katzen Lori Reznick Kipper Lisa Millhauser Rosa Morgenztern Rabbi Morris Kipper Eva Kryss* Herman Paikowsky Irwin Mur Fay Krieger Harry Laskin* Jeff Parent George Palmer Arthur Langsam* Solomon Levine Leonard Polk Clara Revitz* Frances Keitel Lederman Seymour Levinson Abram Price Elsie Rose Phillip Leibowitz Stanley Levy Nancy Rodriguez Alvin “Al” Rose* Isabel Cone Levy Marton Lichtman Rachel Wexler Ross* Florence Rosenthal* Rose Lipcon* Allan Maisel Ellen Ross Fay Rothenberg Anna Longo Louis Marrich Joan Rousso Belle Ruttenberg* Mortimer Margoluis Arnold Massirman Ouida Rudolph Samuel Salzman Florence Metzger Harriet “Sandy” Fred Scherer Rose Sandrow Mildred Nitzberg Levine Miller* Helen Schulner Annette Schekman* Miriam Pulwer Ben Miller* Ronald Seiden* Harry Shearer Paul W. Randol* Sherri L. Moss Albert Silver* Janice Singer I.L. Reisman* Sarah “Suki” Nelson* Dora Simon Samuel Solomon Jr.* Mauricio (Meir) Morris Odessky* Joseph Sitrin* Barbara (Bibby) Solowey Manor Romano Jerome B. Rose* Owen Solowey Elizabeth “Betty” Soman* Irving A. Rosenberg* Norman Rosenberg* Steven Sotloff Abraham Steinberg* Samuel Rosenblatt* Jack Salem* Shirley Steen* Rosemary Strickman* Ruth D. Rosenthal* Abraham Schneider Dr. Albert Tawil* Maurice L. Turner* In Loving Frank Satenspiel* Dennis Shields Pearl Ware* Maw Weinberg Ethel R. Schuman* Archie Shurak* Sol Bernard Weiner Zena Weinkle Jeanette Schwartzberg Esther Skor* Ken West Jay Weisman Robert Seikovsky Dorothy Spar* Clemente Zanzuri Adele Zales* Merle Sidle Bethann Standiford Allan Ziegler* Doris Silver* Bernice K. Straus Sarah Zisman Adam Silverman Sophie Trien* Ethel Spatzer* Ida Vilinsky* Fred Spiegelman Wolf Wahrman CONFRONTING THE LIES Monday, August 9 7:00 p.m., Chapel
Israel and our people are being attacked by many regarding the ongoing conflict with Hamas, and the treatment of the Palestinian people. The lies are widespread and vociferous. We must confront these lies calmly and accurately; this requires knowledge. Brotherhood invites you to an engaging discussion with Rabbi Jeremy Barras in which he will impart best practices for effectively supporting Israel and the Jewish people.
We hope to see you there! We need you, and we need each other.
For those unable to attend in person, this program will be available by livestream.
RSVP: www.tbam.org/confrontinglies
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the current of life
We mourn the passing of Phyllis Thaller, mother of Dr. Seth (Pat) Thaller, grandmother of Steven and Alexandra Thaller Temple Beth Am section Jacqueline Snyder, mother of Roger (Martha) Snyder and Susan (Steve) Sirota, grandmother of Tonie (John) Aughavin, Jake Sirota; at Lakeside Jonah, Maia and Leo Snyder and great grandmother of Celeste Memorial Gardens Marilyn Jacobs, mother of Alan (Shelly) Jacobs and Bruce (Teresa) Dear Beth Am Member, Jacobs, grandmother of Jason Jacobs, Rachel (Michael) and Sarah (David), Joshua (Emily) Jacobs, Lisa, Max and Chase William Jacobs, Many of you have purchased pre-need gravesites at Lakeside. Our inventory is quickly being depleted and we have purchased great grandmother of Jacob and Ben another Beth Am section to accommodate the needs of our Martin Lieberman, father of Dr. Susan (Dr. Jeffrey) Nullman,Jay congregation. The purchase price is still only $3,600 per grave, (Genie) Lieberman, grandmother of Steven (Katie) Nullman, much discounted from the price that you would pay at the time of need. However, shortly after the High Holy Days, this price will Michael (Jennifer) Nullman, Julie (Joshua) Feinberg, Melissa (Corey) increase. Saifman and Jonathan Lieberman; great grandfather of Jake, For further details of the new Temple Beth Am Meron 2 section at Ashley and Zack Nullman, Ava and Jolie Nullman, Olivia and Lakeside, please be in touch with Mindy Robbin at 786.364.9446 or Daniel Feinberg and Ilya Saifman [email protected]. Ellen Leinoff, mother ofPaul (Zoe) Leinoff,wife of Andrew Leinoff, mother of Max Leinoff, Alexis Leinoff and grandmother ofAsher, Spencer and Charlotte Leinoff COLLEGE APPLICATION ASSISTANCE Fay Aronson, mother of Sheila (Ira) Shapiro Rebecca Klein Max Forman, brother of Larry (Sheila) Forman, father of Hallie, Affordable, stress-free, one-on-one assistance with all aspects with former spouse of Terry, brother to Barbara Weinstein and Peter the college application process: College list development/review, extracurricular activity resume, main essay & supplemental essay Forman development/editing, application review prior to submission. Pinie Shteremberg, father of Tania (Rudy) Stern, grandfather of Hourly rate. Free initial consultation. Aliza Stern, Richard (Lauren) Stern, Joselyn (Andrew) Liddell, [email protected] Jonathan Stern; great grandfather of Ryan and Alexis Barna; 305-775-4085 | www.rkcollegeadmissions.com Sabrina and Maisie Stern and Logan and Jordan Liddell Harold Melnick, brother of Edith (Norman) Einspruch, father of Susan Melnick (Olga Salinas), Vicki Melnick (Fred Benken) and Patrice Melnick (Olan Thibodeaux) Rabbi Jerome S. Gurland, uncle of Harvey (Carolina) Gurland and father of Anne (Michael) Chernick and Ellen (Craig) Piper Howard Sacks, father of Debra (Brian) Scarry, Stuart Sacks, Elliot (Lucia) Sacks and Jeffrey (Laura) Sacks; grandfather ofAshley, Brooke, Courtney and Ryan Lois “Kari” Trupkin, wife of Alan Trupkin, mother of Brittany Trupkin, sister-in-law ofSusan (Steven) Schwartzman Victoria Eskenazi, aunt of Drs. Victor (Eileen) Faradji Jeff Levi, brother ofMichelle (Scott) Sarason, uncle of Jordan, Benjamin and Samantha Sarason Catherine Corrigan-Perez, sister of Victoria (Alan) Fine Byron Krulewitch, husband of Doreen Marx Krulewitch BE AUTHENTIC, ADVENTUROUS... BE YOU
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Page 35 Commentator August 2021 • Page 36
RABBI AKLEPI’S DISCRETIONARY FUND Benjamin and Jessie Gliklich with appreciation for our Linda Berger in appreciation of Harrison Berger’s baby naming beautiful wedding Amy Corin Brodie, Virginia Corin, Dana and Julian Kasdin, Roberta Gold with thanks to Rabbi Barras for his insights and Neil Brodie and Alanna Neuman with thankfulness for your guidance so far, Torah study, one off conversations, Tuesday kindness, compassion and leading a beautiful unveiling nite broadcast and much more. So many pearls offered with ceremony for our beloved David Michael Brodie. a hefty side of humor, humility, golf, baseball and basketball Dene and Paul Friedman in appreciation of making Hugh’s – aren’t we blessed, Beth Am?! baby naming so special Lloyd and Cathy Heller in honor of Sarah Heller Shapiro’s Neal and Francine Hamel in memory of Branden. We Bat Mitzvah remember you each day when we rise, always with love in Robert Kauffman in memory of Ellen Leinoff our hearts. Mom and Dad. Tina Kislak in memory of Lillian Metzger Rebecca and Ian Holljes in appreciation of Hugh’s baby naming Jodi and Samantha Orshan in memory of Sheldon Bernstein Nancy Kraemer in memory of Carolyn Kutz Kraemer Geiger Amy and Ethan Shapiro and family in honor of Sarah’s Bat Amy Mittelberg in loving memory of Marion Kroungold Mitzvah and in appreciation of Rabbi Barras being such a Amy and Rickey Mittelberg in memory of Howard Sacks guiding light during this fabulous time!! Your advice and Martin and Sharon Rothberg in honor of Monica Pidre’s wisdom was so appreciated. Bat Mitzvah Elise and Danny van der Reis in memory of Jacky Camhi Frances Salbarrey Marjorie Tobin in loving memory of Elliot Feller BROTHERHOOD OF TEMPLE BETH AM Jeffrey Agron in honor of Neil Littauer. Congratulations, THE STEPHEN ARKY FAMILY CARING FUND Neil, on your honor. You kept TBAM running this year and In loving memory of Steve Arky who is, and always will be, more. Kol Ha’Kavod. deeply in our hearts, with love and respect, Marlin, Lisa and Todd CARING COMMUNITY FUND Susan Kaufman, Brian, Kevin and Alex Cowan in loving LESLEE ARONOVITZ YOUTH memory of Jordan Mermell SCHOLARSHIP FUND Kevin Packman in memory of Ellen Leinoff Tod Aronovitz and family in loving memory of Leslee Aronovitz CONGREGATIONAL LIBRARY FUND Tod Aronovitz and family in loving memory of Joe Unger, Edith and Norman Einspruch in memory of Edith’s brother, husband of Marcia Unger Harold Melnick Tod Aronovitz and family in loving memory of Jordan Mermell, son of Cliff and Diana Mermell. CORNERS OF OUR FIELDS Tod Aronovitz and family in loving memory of Reuben SCHOLARSHIP FUND Schneider Robin Goldstein in honor of Lainey Goldstein completing 2nd Tod Aronovitz and family in loving memory of our lifelong grade with love, from Grandma and Grandpa friend, Ellen Leinoff Shirley Gordan and Leah Gomberg in honor of Sarah Shapiro Tod Aronovitz and family in loving memory of Doris Rosenblat, on the occasion of her recent Bat Mitzvah mother of Nancy and David Linsky Amy Shapiro in honor of Jackie Berney, Thank you thank Fran Berrin and family in honor of Jodi Barras’ Bat Mitzvah you for all you do and especially being a guiding light during Rita Diaz in loving memory of Phyllis Thaller, mother of Seth Sarah’s preparation to become a Bat Mitzvah!!! Love, The Thaller Shapiros Adrian and Ken Dubow in loving memory of Martin Lieberman, father of Susan Nullman THE JOAN KRAMER GALLANT AND MARTIN Heidi and Jeffrey Katz in loving memory of Ellen Leinoff Sherry and Barry Solowey in loving memory of Martin GALLANT CHILDREN’S FUND Lieberman, father of Susan Nullman In memory of our papa, Martin Gallant with love from Jane, Mack and Sunny Brian Gallant in loving memory of his parents DR. MORTON M. AXLER Tracy Gallant Brody in loving memory of her parents SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE FUND Neil and Malka Webman Family Philanthropic Fund in memory
We Give Thanks GENERAL FUND of Naomi Webman, Dr. Harold Webman and William and Barbara Cooper Dr. Mark S. Webman Eddi-Ann Freeman in memory of Max Forman, brother of Larry Forman RABBI BARRAS’ DISCRETIONARY FUND Jean Friedman in honor of David Young, incoming president Michael and Jolie Berkowitz in appreciation for your doing Leah and David Gomberg in honor of Sarah Shapiro’s Bat such a wonderful job preparing Dylan for her Bat Mitzvah, Mitzvah. Mazel Tov! and for being so passionate about the growth of Beth Am and Sandy and Jay Halpern in memory of Mr. Diamond, beloved protecting our future. We are grateful for all you do. Love, dad of Andee Kanter Michael, Jolie, Dylan and Jagger. Sandy and Jay Halpern in memory of Jordan Mermell Susan and Paul Fletcher in loving memory of Ellen Leinoff, Barbara Levin and family in loving memory of Lewis Levin wife of Andrew Leinoff. May her memory be for a blessing. Elyse and Neil Levin, Shelley and Michael Lopez, Deborah and Richard Barbash and Linda and Owen Spanier in honor of Ryan ISIDOR OREN CAMP SCHOLARSHIP FUND Fischer’s Bar Mitzvah Mark and Nedra Oren in memory of Isidor Oren Nancy B. Levitan in loving memory of nephew Evan Baum Rachel Menton DR. IRWIN PERLMUTTER ACADEMIC Patricia Shearer in support of streaming the Saturday Minyan Marcia and Bill Silver in memory of Byron Krulewitch SCHOLARSHIP FUND Keeping the Legacy of Temple Beth Am Founding Member, Dr. Irwin Elaine and Norman Stokes in memory of Helen Stokes, beloved Perlmutter, alive through Jewish Education mother and grandmother Robert and Michele Stone in memory of Ellen Leinoff Richard Yulman in memory of Martin Lieberman PRAYER BOOK FUND Helene and Frank Kronberg in memory of Harold Melnick, loving RABBI GREENGRASS’ DISCRETIONARY FUND brother of Edith Einspruch Janice Baisman in honor of Rabbi Greengrass for being honored with the Rabbinic Human Rights Hero Award. Thank you for working SISTERHOOD FUND tirelessly to help make the world a better place. Susan and Dick Lampen in loving memory of Max Forman, brother Dene and Paul Friedman in appreciation of Rabbi Greengrass. Thank of Larry Forman you so much for making Hugh’s baby naming so wonderful and Rita Swichkow and family in loving memory of Robert “Bob” Widom meaningful. Rebecca and Ian Holljes in honor of Rabbi Greengrass. Thank you for SISTERHOOD/LCLI LYNN CROMER LEADERSHIP shepherding Hugh on Saturday! INITIATIVE FUND Rebecca Karsenti in honor of Rabbi Greengrass for winning the Tom Cromer in loving memory of Joe Unger, father of Judy Kettler Rabbinic Human Rights Hero Award. Thank you for setting an amazing example for our congregation and for our children! ARNELLE SOLOMON SCHOLARSHIP FUND Joan Schaeffer and Roberta Mandel in honor of Luz Espona Jeffrey Agron in honor of Rita Diaz. Thanks for always being Perez-Iturbe there for us. Snyder Family in appreciation of Rabbi Greengrass officiating Leo’s Bar Mitzvah Michele and Robert Stone in honor of Rabbi Greengrass for receiving TEMPLE BETH AM DAY SCHOOL FUND The family of the late Kenneth Baer in memory of Byron Krulewitch the Human Rights Hero Award beloved husband of Doreen Marx Adele Stein in memory of Ron Roman MARILYN HERSKOWITZ JEWISH EDUCATION FUND Randolph and Judith McKean in memory of Marilyn Herskowitz TIKKUN OLAM FUND Marilynn and Dennis Buchenholz in honor of Shelley and Joe Jacoby MATTHEW KASS SCHOLARSHIP FUND for their continuing and active support of Tikkun Olam Karen and Mortimer Kass in memory of Morris Levitt husband of Cummings Family in memory of Marjorie Eisenberg Rhoda Levitt Susan and Paul Fletcher in loving memory of Joe Unger, husband of Marcia and beloved father and grandfather KEREN YALDI CHILDREN’S FUND Dr. Stuart and Dianne Gottlieb in memory of Harold Melnick, brother Jeffrey Agron in memory of Gary Eisenberg’s mother, Marjorie of Edith Einspruch Marti, Roger, Jonah, Maia and Leo Snyder in honor Tamara Donnenfeld Sherry and Harley Tropin in memory of Harold Melnick, brother of YERS Board in honor Beth Lang, outgoing YERS Chair Edith Einspruch
THE SHEPARD KING SCHOLARSHIP FUND YAHRZEIT FUND Bernita King, Russell King and Tamara King Stark in memory of our Alan Bernstein in memory of Edward M. Bernstein beloved Shep, who continues to inspire us in everything we do Gary and Carol Cohen in honor of Martha Cohen Bernita King in memory of Mimi Lampen, mother of Dick Lampen, The Cummings Family in memory of Abe and Sylvia Savitz and a friend of mine Ellen and Mark Friedman in memory of Susan Nullman’s father Jo Ann Lederman in memory of Miriam Lampen, mother of Dick Karl Grossinger in memory of Sylvia Grossinger Lampen Marlene and Joel Kaplan in loving memory of Alma Gorodetzer, Jo Ann Lederman in memory of Alan Lederman beloved mother of Marlene Kaplan Barbara and Mitchell Lipcon and Family in memory of Sylvia Pawliger, Ruth Krieger in loving memory of Moses Markowitz beloved mother, grandmother and favorite GG!! Michelle Weber in memory of Rose Borach
CANTOR NELSON’S DISCRETIONARY FUND Lee Binder and David Swimmer in loving memory of Martin Lieberman, father of Susan Nullman The Damski family in appreciation of Cantor Nelson for making Ilana Damski’s Bat Mitzvah beautiful and memorable Andrew Leinoff and family in loving memory of Ellen Leinoff and with great appreciation for your kindness Marti and Arthur Rothenberg with thanks for many years of beautiful, heartfelt music Michele and Robert Stone in honor Cantor’s 29 years of memory and celebration
Page 37 Commentator August 2021 • Page 38 Temple Beth Am professional Directory 2021/2022
BRIT OLOM TOURS, INC.–TRAVEL PROFESSIONALS MOHEL - 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 (brit milah). 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 Jewish Holidays 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. Serving Miami’s most dynamic real estate markets: Onl y Ilene! Brickell Downtown Miami Design District Miami Beach Key Biscayne Coconut Grove Palmetto Bay Cutler Bay The Falls South Miami Pinecrest
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Page 39 Commentator August 2021 • Page 40
Roberta G. Mandel, Esq. Managing Partner
8925 S.W. 148th Street, Suite 200 Miami, Florida 33176 Tel: 305-233-5041 Fax: 305-233-5042 [email protected] Commentator Commentator (USPS: 0052-060) Is Published “There has probably never been a Monthly Except July by Temple Beth Am, 5950 time in human history when people North Kendall Dr., Pinecrest, FL 33156-2068. around the world have depended on Periodicals Postage Paid at Miami, Florida. their homes more completely POSTMASTER: Send address changes to than they do right now.” COMMENTATOR, TEMPLE BETH AM, THE JANET (z”l) AND RICHARD YULMAN CAMPUS, 5950 N. KENDALL - Robert Reffkin, DRIVE, PINECREST, FL 33156-2068. Compass Founder & CEO Volume 31 Number 1
Senior Rabbi: Jeremy Barras Rabbi: Rachel G. Greengrass, MARE, RJE Rabbi: Jaime Aklepi, D.D. Senior Cantor: Tifani Coyot Cantorial Soloist: Jessica Bass Founding Rabbi Emeritus: Herbert Baumgardz”l, D.H.L., D.D. Cantor Emerita, Rachelle Nelson President: David Young Head of Day School: Nora Anderson, M.Ed., M.S. In these uncertain times, we’re Admissions Director, Day School: Jodi Barras Campus Activities Director: Michelle Cohen here for you. Team Citron is proud Development Director: Ilana Gilat to offer Compass Virtual Agent Director of Lifelong Learning: Tamara Donnenfeld, MARE, RJE Services - an exclusive suite of Elementary School Director: Susana Novak, M.S. Ed. marketing & transactional services, Early Childhood Director: Mara Berger. M.A. including: Finance Director: John Wenzel Judaic Studies Director, Emerita Dr. Lenore C. Kipper, RJE Membership Director: Rita Diaz • Virtual Open Houses Program Director: Andrea LeVine • Private interactive home tours Security and Operations Director: Sharón Levi • Virtual neighborhood tours • Dynamic digital listing brochures 305.667.6667 Administrative Office: • Digital marketing & insights 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 Contact us today to learn more 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 and community engagement.
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 41 Commentator August 2021 • Page 42
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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 Page 43 Commentator August 2021 • Page 44 WILLIAMSON IS MIAMI Treating You Like Family Has Made Us #1.
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 ©2021 General Motors. All Rights Reserved. Cadillac® YOU WILL NOT BELIEVE HOW MUCH MY PROFESSIONAL FAMILY HAS GROWN EVENT SERVICES PHILIP BREGMAN GROUGROUPP
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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 mitzvahs, 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!
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For More Information Email [email protected] Philip Bregman or call Direct 954.410.9675 | Office 954.722.2223
Page 45
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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