Commentator - THURS. MARCH 12, 2020 at 7:00 PM - Temple Beth Am
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Commentator Adar – Nissan 5780
March 2020
THURS. MARCH 12, 2020
at 7:00 PM
PRESENTED BY
FOR MORE INFORMATION, TURN TO PAGES 26-27
march 2020 Shabbat Services
FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020 FRIDAY, MARCH 20, 2020
In This Issue 11 Adar
5:30 p.m. Pre-Neg
25 Adar
6:00 p.m. Pre-Neg
6:30 p.m. Teacher Appreciation 6:30 p.m. Shabbat Tropical Service
Shabbat Services 7:30 p.m. Shabbat Tropical Dinner
Shabbat Services 2
SATURDAY, MARCH 7, 2020 SATURDAY, MARCH 21, 2020
Purim Shpiel 3
9:00 a.m. Torah Study 9:00 a.m. Torah Study
From Strength to Strength 4 10:30 a.m. Morning Minyan 10:30 a.m. Morning Minyan
10:30 a.m. Bar Mitzvah of Jack Goldhaber
Lunch ’N Learn 4 5:30 p.m. B’not Mitzvah of Katelin Parashat Vayakheil
and Amanda Morgan Exodus 35:1 – 38:20
Clergy Corner 5
Haftarah: I Kings 7:40 – 50
President’s Message 6 Parashat Tetzaveh
Exodus 27:20 – 30:10 FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020
Men’s Seder 7 Haftarah: Ezekiel 43:10 – 27 3 Nisan
6:00 p.m. Pre-Neg
Membership 8/9
SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2020 6:30 p.m. Shabbat Services
Youth Engagement Religious 12:00 noon Purim Carnival
SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2020
School 10/11 MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020 Erev Purim 9:00 a.m. Torah Study
13 Adar 10:30 a.m. Morning Minyan
Day School 12/13
6:30 p.m. Purim Shpiel and Megillah Reading
Programming 14-16 Parashat Pekudei
FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020 Exodus 38:21 – 40:38
I Love Rita Photos 17 18 Adar Haftarah: I Kings 7:51 – 8:21
B’nai Mitzvah 18
6:00 p.m. Pre-Neg
6:30 p.m. Shabbat Services
Dunk 4 Diabetes 19
SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2020
Tikkun Olam 20 9:00 a.m. Torah Study
High Holy Day Youth Choir 21
10:30 a.m. Morning Minyan
10:30 a.m. Bar Mitzvah of Harrison Lamnin
Brotherhood 21
Parashat Ki Tisa
Frozen Shabbat Photos 22 Exodus 30:11 – 34:35
Our Jewish Heritage 23
Haftarah: I Kings 18:1 – 39
Sisterhood 24/25
Auction 26/27
Beyond the Curve 28
Current of Life 29 our advertisers
Mazel Tov 29 Professional Directory Listings................ 31 Karen Sklawer.............................................. 42
Rita Diaz, Estate Sales................................. 31 TLC Family Care.......................................... 42
Vote Reform 29 Dr. Greg Ross, Orthodontist...................... 33 ESG, Events (Bregman).............................. 43
Friendship Circle.......................................... 37 Kitanim........................................................... 44
Jog for Jenny 30 Israel Bonds................................................... 37 Michal Keshen-Philips, Counseling......... 44
Catering By Les............................................ 38 Bea Citron, Realtor...................................... 44
Professional Directory 31
Mandler Physical Therapy......................... 39 Smile Miami.................................................. 45
In Loving Memory 32/33 Camp Coleman............................................. 39 Accessible Home Health Care.................. 45
Goldman Residential................................... 39 Fare to Remember Catering...................... 46
We Give 34/35 Tracey Spiegelman, Realtor....................... 40 Rebecca Lenard, Pediatric Dentist........... 46
Medicare Matt............................................... 40 Williamson Cadillac.................................... 46
Classics 36 Chef David Schwadron............................... 41 Careaga Plastic Surgery............................. 47
Buchwald Jewelers...................................... 41 The Palace...................................................... 48
Sister Congregation 38 Paradise Properties...................................... 41
DON'T MISS
URIM
PCARNIVAL
Temple Beth Am Purim Players present
HAMANTON
FUN FOR THE WHOLE
FAMILY
A P U R I M M U S IC A L
M O N DAY, M A RC H 9
6:30 pm, Sanctuary
SUNDAY NOON
MARCH 8 to 3PM
SOCI A L H A LL & COU RT YA RD
GA M ES
History has its eyes on Beth Am…
ATT R ACTIONS
as we tell the tale of Purim through
FACE PA I NTI NG the eyes of its villain, HAMAN!
FOOD & MORE!
Don’t miss our original Purim shpiel
MANY THANKS TO OUR production based on the Tony Award-
PRESENTING SPONSOR
winning Broadway musical Hamilton.
Our talented cast of clergy and congregants
invites you to a Purim shpiel that blends hip-hop,
TBAM.ORG/PURIMCARNIVAL
$18 IN ADVANCE, $25 AT THE DOOR
Broadway, and of course… the Megillah!
CHILDREN 3-18
Join us for some noshes,
FREE some spirits, and a show!
FO R C H I L DR E N U N DE R 3
A N D A D U LT S !
www.tbam.org/hamanton
Page 3
Commentator March 2020 • Page 4
From Strength to Strength
Rabbi Jeremy Barras
jbarras@tbam.org
The Tenth Plague, Pharaoh, International Holocaust Remembrance Day and Kobe Bryant
At the end of January there was a confluence of events with line of first born sons in his family. It was only when his son
a common theme that resonated with me. As Jews around was taken before him did he realize that he was not in fact a
the world were reading the Torah portion of Bo, in which we god, and that the G-d of Israel had outmatched him.
learn of the last three plagues in Egypt, we paused to mourn
on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, which this year Pharaoh was forced to grieve for the loss of his son along with
marked the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz- the other Egyptian families. Their values were corrupt, and
Birkenau. The day before that anniversary, the world lost Kobe Pharaoh was passing on illusions of grandeur to his son. On the
Bryant, his daughter, and seven others in a horrific helicopter other hand, what struck people so deeply about Kobe Bryant,
crash that brought shock and sadness to people across the globe. was that he died alongside his daughter, Gianna. Kobe had
I had never met Kobe Bryant, nor have most of the people in the committed his post-NBA life to raising his daughters, teaching
world. But the shock and sadness of his loss affected so many in them and offering them real opportunities to do good in this
deep and profound ways. I also thought a lot about his tragic world. We mourn our brothers and sisters who perished in
death. In the same vein, while I obviously never met anyone the Holocaust every day not because we knew them (although
who perished in the Holocaust, I think about them every single some of us had family members who were lost), but because
day. they were people who represented each one of us. They shared
our values, they passed on our traditions, they were a link in
In programs marking Holocaust Remembrance Day, and in the chain that connects us to our ancestors and to our covenant
my own thoughts about Kobe Bryant, I continued to reflect on with the Almighty. We don’t mourn with those who pervert
that week’s Torah portion and in particular, the tenth plague. justice, seek only fame and view the world through a distorted
The murder of the first born son of every Egyptian household lens of hatred and narcissism. But we will always remember
provides a glimpse into the sorrow and tragedy the Egyptian those who see their role in this world as holy vessels who soak
people felt as such a massive loss of life ravaged their country. up our sacred tradition and pass it on to those who come after
But why was this necessary? And why were ten separate them. They will always remain in our hearts and souls, and we
plagues necessary? There are a variety of different factors that yearn to be the next link that preserves our tradition not for our
the rabbis consider, but one view suggests that each plague was own glory, but for the benefit of those who inherit it from us.
meant to attack one of Egypt’s deities. One by one Pharaoh saw
that his perceived gods were not real, but it was only when he L’shalom,
saw that all of his gods were false could he admit that the G-d
of Israel was the one and only true deity. Pharaoh saw his gods
fall one by one, but he considered himself a god as well, and as Rabbi Jeremy Barras
long as he lived, his hold over other nations could exist. Though
Pharaoh knew he would one day die (which is pretty unusual
for a god), he believed that his being would live on through the
Lunch ’n Learn with Rabbi Jeremy Barras
Tuesday, March 3 • 12:00-1:30 p.m.
Chapel, Lewis Family Religious Life Complex
What is Really Happening with US-Israel Relationship:
A Report from the AIPAC Policy Conference
Feel free to bring your own lunch, or pre-order optional lunch provided by Fare To Remember Catering for $11 online at
tbam.org/lunchandlearn
Clergy Corner
Cantor Rachelle Nelson
rnelson@tbam.org
Purim has been considered the festival of masks; after all, don’t most of appearance seems to match his inner appearance is King Ahasuerus.
the characters in the Purim story wear a mask? And why do you think He doesn’t seem to hide his naivety, his lack of good judgement, or
that we, the Jewish people, are able to relate to this raucous holiday his inability to rule. He wears his royal robe with great confidence and
with so much enthusiasm? I know that the liquor flows generously does little to follow-up on any issues that come his way. And yet, this
and without guilt, but why else do we feel such an attachment to its same awkward and unstable leader has the capacity to demand that
essence? The answer lies in the masks, the ones worn in the plat, and his wife Vashti, dance naked in public. When she refuses, he has her
ones we wear in and out of our lives. sent away which implies that she is killed. If Ahasuerus is wearing a
mask, it is surely one of confusion as to his sense of morals and values.
Queen Esther certainly has much to hide. She is brought to the King Instead , he presents himself as a man without a true moral compass of
as a contestant in a beauty pageant, she wins the contest and marries right and wrong.
the King and she hides her Jewish faith from both the King and his
ministers. In fact, she wears this mask throughout the Purim story until As the Book of Esther has no mention of God, perhaps even the
the very end when the lives of the Jewish people are threatened. At this Almighty is hiding its face behind a mask. If the Jewish people were to
point, she lifts her veil of secrecy and allows her true self to be seen. be annihilated and at the very last moment, a miracle arrived to save
Mordechai wears a mask, partially revealed and partially hidden. Day them, would it be incomprehensible to think that perhaps God removed
after day he sits at the gates of the King’s palace, keeping secret his the mask of secrecy and revealed blessings upon the Jewish people?
relationship with Esther, and the plot that they must remain silent We will wear our masks at the Purim festival and we will laugh and
from the King and his assistant, Haman. Even after Mordechai saves celebrate in costume. I pray that each of us will know when to take the
the King from a plot to assassinate him, the King still has no idea who mask off and that we will truly appreciate and love what is behind it.
Mordechai is nor does he seem to care.
Chag Sameah.
We then are introduced to Haman, principle minister of the king
Ahasuerus. Haman is a painfully disturbed and angry man. He is Cantor Nelson
power-hungry beyond what anyone can feed his ego, and the slightest
lack of catering to his needs can cause death to those that do not obey.
Haman wears one mask when he addresses the king and another
mask when he is speaking to the king’s servants and villagers. Haman
demands that all bow down to him and when Mordechai refuses, you
can only imagine what this does to Haman’s frail ego. The fury, the
hatred and outrage, pour forth from every part of him, and he becomes
obsessed with killing Mordechai and all the Jews.
Of all the protagonists in the Book of Esther, the only one whose outer
Compassionate Visits by Clergy
We want to be there with you because we are here for you.
Rabbi Barras, Cantor Nelson, Rabbi Aklepi, Rabbi Greengrass and Cantor Halpern are your Clergy.
Due to hospital privacy policies we are unable to inquire about congregants.
Please contact Mindy Robbin in the clergy office to tell us when we may visit you or a loved one.
Mindy Robbin, mrobbin@tbam.org or 786.364.9446.
Page 5
Commentator March 2020 • Page 6
In sum, Weiss advises that we fight the hatred of anti-Semitism by
deepening our love for Judaism.
M e s s a g e
from the But it can’t be simply celebrating Jewishness for the sake of it. Sure,
president humans might be tribal by nature. But there is nothing compelling about
tribalism for its own sake. There ought to be a higher purpose for the
tribe’s existence. It ought to have a guiding force or principle, something
Stuart Ratzan that on an aspirational level is righteous and true.
sratzan@tbam.org
At Temple Beth Am, our mission is to spin the grogger throughout
the year. The noise we hope to make is the beautiful sound of music
The Purim Holiday and the Fight as we sing together on Shabbat or on any of our holidays. These are
Against Anti-Semitism harmonious sounds that bring peace to us as individuals and at the same
time bring us together as a community. We engage in festive learning,
Dear Beth Am Community, developing ourselves mentally and spiritually. We celebrate athletics,
and we celebrate life cycles. And sometimes we simply celebrate
This is March, and in the Jewish calendar March usually means the ourselves with parties, galas, art auctions, and luncheons. Often we
holiday of Purim. I have fond memories of the Purim holiday as a honor and celebrate someone special in our community. The Beth Am
child. Carnivals. Noise makers. Costumes. And of course a story life is often described as “Joyful Judaism.”
of intrigue, suspense, and danger, with a victorious ending for the
Jews. Discovering Judaism’s Purpose
I can’t resist. I am reminded of a humorous line my wife shared Being Jewish does indeed have a higher, aspirational purpose. And
with me recently about the essence of all Jewish holidays: we seek it spiritually, morally, and intellectually by studying Torah,
attending services, and attending the engaging programing offered here.
“They tried to destroy us...They failed...Let’s eat!”
When you look around Beth Am, you see that all the elements of what
Purim, as you know, involves the hateful but powerful Persian Bari Weiss refers to are in play. So, if you want to fight anti semitism,
leader, Haman, who declares his intent to kill the Jews. This after start with celebrating your Jewish self right here at Temple Beth Am.
the Jew Mordecai refuses to bow down to Haman. In the end, Bring your energy and curiosity to the community. You won’t regret it.
of course, Queen Esther boldly reveals her Jewish identity and And along the way you will spin your own grogger, making yourself and
Haman’s plans to the King. The Jews of Persia are saved and Haman your community heard.
is put to death.
And what will others hear?
Why we spin the grogger
They will hear the sound of a proud community of people, celebrating
Each year, at Purim, whenever Haman’s name is read from the Book their culture, their history, and their future. They will also hear the
of Esther, we are instructed to sound our groggers and hoot and sound of a people seeking and receiving the magical, moral guidance of
holler. Sometimes the custom is explained as a way to blot out the the Torah. Perhaps they will also hear the sound of Jews discovering the
name of the evil enemy of our people. But on further reflection I sparks of spiritual wonder that emerge from the words and pages of the
think the custom is as likely a pronouncement that whenever we text, and also from the story of our people over thousands of years.
are faced with the tyrants who would seek to destroy our people,
we shall scream out our Jewishness even louder. We shall never In sum, Beth Am’s mission is the current mission of the Jewish people. It
shrink or shy away. Instead we shall more fully express ourselves, is the best way to fight anti-semitism. Not with counter-demonstrations
full of pride despite those who would destroy us. We are not simply and anger. But with love and courage. As Dr. Marin Luther King taught
screaming out in protest; the holiday of Purim is celebratory, and us: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate
the noise we make is collective and joyful. Our aim is not simply cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
to demonstrate against the name of Haman; our aim is to infuse our
lives with positive energy, that knowing the Hamans of the world With the commitment to our freedom, not for freedom’s sake, but for
are out there, we will be emboldened to affirmatively celebrate our the higher moral purpose of using that freedom to be our best version of
Jewishness with even more energy and fervor. our individual selves, we will stand up and be heard. We will be heard
as we live out the principles of justice and morality embedded in our
How to Fight Anti Semitism at Temple Beth Am Torah. We will be heard as we treasure the sanctity of human life and
bring dignity and respect to all our dealings with other people. We will
In response to the current events making anti-Semitism headline be heard as we treasure the blessings of celebration, humor, and love that
news, and in a modern era where anti-Semitism is an inescapable our tradition encourages.
problem for our community, Bari Weiss wrote a recent book titled
How to Fight Anti-Semitism. As Bari Weiss explains in that book, Want to fight anti-semitism? Let’s do so by asserting our freedom to be
our best strategy in the fight is to live fuller and more informed Jewish. But not simply for the sake of it. Let’s really dig deep. Together,
Jewish lives, to more fully invest in our Jewish selves, to discover let’s learn the purpose for our people’s existence. Let’s learn how to
and then live out our Jewishness. fulfill the story of our people, and how to make it mean something great,
for ourselves and for the world around us.
Weiss explains, “Cultivating and strengthening your Jewish identity
may not seem like an obvious way to combat anti-semitism, but it is Happy Purim everyone! Let’s eat. :)
actually one of our most powerful weapons.” Weiss goes on to say,
“The proper — and ultimately the only — response to this moment is
to practice a Judaism of affirmation, not a Judaism of defensiveness.” Stuart
BROTHERHOOD OF TEMPLE BETH AM
PRESENTS ITS...
ANNUAL MEN’S SEDER
SUNDAY, MARCH 29TH, AT 5:00 PM
CHAPEL, LEWIS FAMILY RELIGIOUS LIFE COMPLEX
Among the Four Questions...
Q Why is it that on this night we only recline instead of reclining and watching sports?
Q Why does Netflix start your favorite series during the Jewish High Holy Days?
Plus, we’ll explore the Ten Plagues...
Q Lack of beer Q 10-year-olds with their own YouTube
Channel earning 10 times what you do
Q No Internet Connection
Q Honey-do lists
Q Having an iPhone 7 when everyone
else has an iPhone 11 Plus Q Golf Frustrations (putter doesn’t work)
Q Being a Miami Dolphins fan Q Backing up a hard drive and not plugging
in a surge protector during a hurricane
Q Having to wear a T-shirt with a
Family Reunion Logo Q Forgetting your wedding anniversary!
...plus the wit
and wisdom of
Senior Rabbi Jeremy Barras
Cost for The Men’s Seder
Only $36.00 per person
REGISTER TODAY!
Information and Online Registration at
TBAM.ORG/MENSSEDER Page 7
March 2020 • Page 8
Membership
Rita Diaz
Membership Director
rdiaz@tbam.org
CHAVURAH CONNECTION INVITES YOU...
WALLCAST® CONCERT
Soundscape Park
SATURDAY, MARCH 21
8:00 P.M.
SCHEHERAZADE
NWS Conducting alumnus Joshua Gersen returns to bring
one of the most alluring masterworks to the New World
Center. Arabian Nights’ famed storyteller Scheherazade spins
fables to survive.
You can experience the New World Symphony
performances larger than life in free outdoor Wallcast
concerts. Miami Beach’s SoundScape features the latest in
visual and audio technology on a 7,000-square-foot projection
wall. Wallcast events are free to the public and do not require
a ticket.
There will be a pre-concert chat in the SunTrust Pavilion for each of the WALLCAST concerts, pre-
sented by Citi, this season. These will take place one hour before each WALLCAST concert and will
be available to all ticketholders and WALLCAST® concert attendees.
Space is limited, so attendance will be on a first-come, first-served basis.
Miami Beach Exostage is at SoundScape, 500 17 St., Miami Beach.
Come early, bring your lawn chairs, picnic dinner, beverages and snacks!
Please RSVP to Darlene in the Membership Department
305.667.6667 ext. 115 dcruz@tbam.org
BREAKFAST AND TOUR
FOR PROSPECTIVE
MEMBERS
Sunday, March 1, 11:00 a.m.
Sanctuary Lobby
Please invite your unaffiliated friends or family members to join us for breakfast in our
Sanctuary Lobby and tour our beautiful campus. They will have the opportunity to learn
about our many membership incentives, from our complimentary young adult memberships
to our “Get To Know Us” campaign and for those families that would love to rejoin our com-
munity, we offer our “Get To Know Us All Over Again.” If you know someone interested in
learning more about Temple Beth Am, please tell them about the event.
Better year, bring them and have breakfast with us!
RSVP a must to Rita Diaz 350.667.6667 ext. 107 or rdiaz@tbam.org
Caring for a family member with a chronic illness?
Join us and participate in a support group
• Meet others in a similar situation
• Exchange information and helpful resources
• Learn stress reduction techniques and other coping strategies Connect
• Find emotional outlets and receive support from peers
• Form new friendships and discover a sense of community
This group will be facilitated by Maxine Hart Weinstein, Ph.D. psychologist.
Dr. Weinstein, a TBAM congregant, is a Miami psychologist who has led many caregiver groups.
She is on the staff of Baptist and South Miami Hospitals.
Stay tuned for details. There is no charge to attend. The group is open to everyone!
If you are interested in learning more about this group,
please contact Rita Diaz by phone at 786.364.9434.
Page 9
Commentator March 2020 • Page 10
Tamara Donnenfeld
Director of Lifelong Learning
tdonnenfeld@tbam.org
BAFTY 34
RELIGIOUS SCHOOL
GUATEMALA
WASHINGTON, D.C. ISRAEL
GUATEMALA
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER MIAMIErica Golden
Youth Engagement Director
egolden@tbam.org
CALENDAR
Wednesday, March 4 Wednesday, March 18
BAFTY 34 3:15-3:45 p.m. Rosh Chodesh
in the 5:30-7:00 p.m.
Adult Reading Room
Monday, March 23
Saturday, March 7 No Monday Night Chai
BAFTY goes to
Universal Studios Friday, April 3-Saturday,
& Islands of Adventure April 4
5th Grade Retreat at
Sunday, March 15 ZooMiami
Jog for Jenny!
Wednesday, March 18
BAFTY 5 3:15-3:45 p.m.
in the
Adult Reading Room
Join BAFTY on Sunday, March 15 at
7:30 a.m. for our annual Jog For Jenny
Family Fun Run and help change the lives
of so many kids at Camp Jenny! Sign up to
run or sponsor the event at
SEE JOG FOR JENNY AD ON PAGE 30. www.tbam.org/jogforjenny
Page 11Commentator March 2020 • Page 12
day school
Dr. Deborah Starr
Head of School
dstarr@tbam.org
Without change there is no innovation, creativity, or incentive for improvement.
- William Pollard
The Temple Beth Am Day School’s Annual Auction is upon With the addition of Israeli Dance to our Physical Education
us and after ten years here I still feel its excitement. Not only program, we now have an annual whole-school (yes, Early
is it a fundraising evening to support our Scholarship Fund Childhood, too!) Israeli Dance Festival to celebrate Yom
and new school initiatives, but it is an evening of real social Yerushalayim. Physical Education itself was further enriched.
gathering and fun. Every year, I am totally surprised by the We now have Yoga in Early Childhood; and Mindfulness,
creativity, imagination, and artistic skill demonstrated by each Nutrition, and Martial Arts in Elementary School. Do you
and every one of the students’ art projects. It is almost like a remember when the children did not have scheduled, daily
mini Art Basel. The children enjoy making the art pieces and recess? Oxygen to the brain–very necessary.
the “bidding wars” over acquiring them is fierce. Sometimes,
I feel like I am Sotheby’s. None of this could happen without For both our students and our teachers, academics and in-
our talented Art Teacher, Amy Kutell. tellectual learning have moved forward on so many levels.
To begin with, we have Curriculum Maps that are open
Every year the Annual Auction has a theme, and I am hum- for inspection, updated twice a year, and clearly posted on
bled by this year’s theme being: Rock Starr, in honor of yours our school website. In our Elementary School, we added a
truly. It is a play on both my last name and my love of rock STEM Lab and supporting science subject matter. In Early
music (but, not limited to–I also appreciate country, pop, al- Childhood, Nursery and Pre-Kindergarten students go to the
ternative, classical, movie soundtracks and scores, and some Science Exploratory Room and experience ECHOS (Early
rap). I thank the Co-Chairs, Sara Berkowitz and Natalie Childhood Hands-On Science), a program developed at the
Firestone, for their vision and drive for this important eve- Miami Science Museum and our teacher has received the
ning and I look forward to all they have in store! I have been professional development necessary to implement the pro-
told that this year there will be a number of unique surprises gram. We have intentionally added the 4 Cs of 21st Century
(in addition to the open bar, delicious food, and scattered en- Learning: Creativity, Collaboration, Communication, and
tertainment). Critical Thinking. Our Early Childhood Center uses Creative
Curriculum as its basis of instruction, with a Reggio-inspired
All of this has triggered some reflective thoughts on my time classroom environment. Our Social Studies curriculum was
here at Temple Beth Am Day School. I have always felt we greatly re-vamped. In kindergarten through second grade,
were a great match. The school needed my particular tool we added World Cultures. Kindergarten studies Mexico, our
box at the time of hire, and I was encouraged to use it to my neighbor to the south. First grade experiences the world of
utmost ability in order to positively impact the school. I think Japan–including a Field Trip to Morikami Gardens! Second
I have accomplished that (with the help of my strong adminis- grade studies selected nations on the African Continent. They
trative teams, made up of: Susy Novak, Cari Altman, Mara view African Art on a Field Trip to Fort Lauderdale Art Mu-
Berger, Jen Carey, Dr. Lenore Kipper, Wendy Perlman, seum. Third through fifth grade social studies became less
Ellen Blumenthal, Liora Vogel, and Denise Kirsner). linear and survey driven, and became more in-depth, includ-
ing a Civil War simulation.
Many of these new initiatives had to do with Elementary
School “gatherings,” and these gatherings were for the The model for our weekly Faculty Meetings changed. No lon-
purpose of giving meaning to invaluable “moments” and im- ger “policies and procedures” meetings (all faculty members
portant holidays, milestones, and events. These included: our are capable memo readers), the template now is one of colle-
Opening and Closing Assemblies with special emphasis on giality building and sharing; reflective practice in individual
welcoming our kindergarten students and recognizing our journals; and professional development. These meetings have
graduating class; 9-11 Commemoration; Veterans Day (with improved and supported the educational practices of our
our accompanying Wall of Honor); and Yom haZikaron (with teachers and thereby enhanced our student learning. Some
a memorial component to executed journalist Steven Joel of the professional development has included: the Steps and
Sotloff). Traits of the Writing Process; Interpreting and using NWEA
MAP testing results; Grit; Google Classroom; Technology to
Support the Learning; Making the Learning Visible; CreativeCurriculum; Rigor; and the Kagan Protocols. Temple Beth Am Day School’s PATIO, along with the Ad-
missions Office, creates many events and social gatherings to
Values and being a mensch is central to our learning. We foster propinquity at the school. There have been grade-level
wanted a comprehensive approach to this endeavor. Rabbi social gatherings; the Back to School Picnic; New Parents
Greengrass was charged to create a three-year, cycled, Mid- Picnic; New Parents Orientation; Parent Coffees and Speakers;
dot curriculum for our students. Some of these values include: our hugely successful Bingo Night; Game Night; Parent/Child
clothing the naked, feeding the hungry, pursuing justice, pro- Dances; Pancake Breakfasts; Pajama Movie Night, and so
tecting the environment, and to “watch one’s words (lashon much more. We are a very vibrant place, and we are in a very
hora). Complementing the Middot curriculum is our Open healthy place.
Circle program. A successful, nationally recognized kinder-
garten through fifth grade, research-based, social competency All of these initiatives, academic, social, emotional, physical,
program developed at Wellesley College. We are the only and spiritual supported our first-time ever, five years ago,
school in Florida teaching this program. To foster leadership, application for accreditation from the Florida Council of In-
kindness, and responsibility, we have our Kindergarten dependent Schools (FCIS). We achieved that accreditation,
Buddies and Pre-K Pals initiatives. Ask your children about it; from this strongest and most highly acclaimed of Florida
they love their partners. Did I mention we now have a school independent schools’ accrediting agencies, and were recently
song and mascot? Let us not forget, our Student Council led re-accredited this year.
Tzedakah projects–whereby our students raise money for
hurricane relief, cancer, heart, and diabetes research, animal Now, the school is primed for its next great trajectory. With
shelters, St. Jude and Nicklaus Children’s Hospitals, Wounded the strength of the Beyond the Curve campaign and the hire
Warriors, and so much more. Yes, we do a lot to foster com- of an incredible new Head of School, Nora Anderson–Tem-
munity–and to be part of this bigger enterprise and the world. ple Beth Am Day School is perched for incredible growth and
Tikkun Olam is seriously practiced here. academic accomplishment. May every success and blessing
come this way.
Our Extended Day Program has many rich offerings for
students who choose this option. Extended Day has included:
Robotics, Coding, Physics, Fashion Design, Spanish, TV
Production, and STEM. Dr. Deborah Starr
JOIN US IN HONORING
Temple Beth Am Day School Head of School
on her forthcoming retirement
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2020
PRE-NEG: 6:00 PM | SERVICE: 6:30 PM
Dinner immediately following service.
$36 per person
RSVP at tbam.org/starrshabbat
Page 13Commentator March 2020 • Page 14
programming
Andrea LeVine
Program Director
alevine@tbam.org
Racial Justice Reading Group
with Rabbi Jaime Aklepi
Featuring special guest facilitators Dr. Miriam Lipsky, Dr. Jan Sokol-Katz,
and Marni Lennon of the University of Miami
7:00-9:00 p.m., Meeting Room 2
April 7, April 28, May 12, and June 2
Are you interested in discussing issues of privilege, bias, and racism?
Join in the conversation at our 5-session program in which we will wrestle
with these issues as they relate to public education, the criminal justice system,
and our experience as Jews in America. We welcome expert guest facilitators to
guide us through these important conversations as we examine how we can create
positive change.
Free of charge, but please RSVP to Mindy Robbin at mrobbin@tbam.org.
Teacher Appreciation Shabbat
You are cordially invited to a special Shabbat
honoring our Temple Beth Am Day School and
Religious School educators! Join us for a special
extended preneg and service to celebrate the
incredible work our teachers do each and every day.
This year we honor: 5 Years: Adi Afek
Melissa Greenstein
Droma Gringarten
Keith Krotenberg
Shula Leshetz
Irit Roth
Gillian Strauss
10 Years: Liat Berkey
Deborah Starr
15 Years: Denise Kirsner
Friday, March 6 | 5:30 p.m. preneg, | 6:30 p.m. Service 30 Years:
35 Years:
Shirley Sotloff
Barbara Berman
40 Years: Natalie Breslin
www.tbam.org/teachershabbat 45 Years: Dr. Lenore KipperSHABBAT TROPICAL
Spanish Night!
Friday, March 20
6:00 p.m.
Preneg
6:30 p.m.
Service
The Latin Connection of Temple
Beth Am invites you to celebrate the
treasures of Spain as we learn about
its Jewish heritage. Join us for a
special Shabbat service, featuring
musical arrangements from Cantor
Rachelle Nelson, followed by a
delicious Spanish dinner!
SPANISH NIGHT
Join us for dinner and our annual celebration of Latin Jewish heritage
FRIDAY, MARCH 20 TH
Immediately following our special Shabbat Tropical service, we invite you to enjoy the
treasures of Spain with a delicious dinner and a special flamenco performance! Take this
opportunity at the end of your week to restore, replenish, reflect and rejoice with us.
Adults $36 | Youth under 18 are free!
Register today at www.tbam.org/shabbattropical
Questions? Contact Andrea LeVine at alevine@tbam.org.
Page 15Commentator
Sunday Salon
Join us at 10:00 a.m.
in the Adult Reading Room
March 1
Bill Farran
The Yizkor Book Chronicles
Last year, The Jewish Genealogical Society of Greater Miami introduced us to a most
remarkable artist/author, Bill Farran. Bill’s memorable presentation of his book, Lost
Treasures: The Wooden Synagogues of Eastern Europe, a collection of his magnificent artistic
linocuts, was absolutely astounding. And now, thanks to our continued partnership with
JGSGM, Bill returns with even greater detail about those shuls and their villages, bringing
stories, tidbits, facts, legends, and more gathered from Yizkor books and how they tell the
stories of our people. Come hear some interesting and happy moments of our ancestors in
Europe.
March 8
Dr. Marsha Cohen
Updates on 2020 Vision? News Stories We’re Watching Now
Dr. Marsha B. Cohen has been remarkably prescient in assessing and anticipating
situations that hadn’t been receiving much media attention. And now we ask “What’s
in the news? Is it good for the Jews?” Marsha Cohen will share her insights about news
stories of interest to American Jews–why we ought to be concerned about them and give
them our attention.
Adult Reading Room Library events are coordinated by Etta Gold, Congregational Librarian.
Contact Etta at egold@tbam.org or 786.264.6543
SAVE THE DATE
Second Night
Community Passover Seder
Thursday, April 9
5:45 p.m.Thank You!
Thank you to Michelle and
Scott Sarason and the
I Love Rita committee for
chairing this special tribute
to our beloved membership
director, Rita Diaz.
Special thanks to Philip
Bregman at ESG for the
fabulous decor, Karen Cohen
at Always Flowers for the
stunning floral design,
Claudia Storper for the
incredible photographs and
Chef David Schwadron for
our delicious brunch.
It was such a beautiful day filled
with love and community in
celebration of Rita.
Page 17Commentator March 2020 • Page 18
Mazel Tov B'nai Mitzvah
Jack Goldhaber
March 7, 2020
Jack, an 8th grader, is a conscientious Honor student and particularly gifted in Algebra. Jack is a baseball
player, a pitcher, and works hard to hone his craft. He adores his pups, Rocky and Ginger, snowboarding,
Maine (his home away from home) and is very close with his grandparents and cousins and of course his
sister Lila (9). We have been very blessed with a sweet, sensitive, funny and bright son/grandson/nephew
and can’t wait to celebrate his special day.
Amanda Morgan
March 7, 2020
Amanda is a TBAM graduate and made us proud by being the first female president of student govern-
ment. She is in the 7th grade at Palmetto Middle School, in the National Junior Honors Society, speech and
debate club, and Model U.N. She loves hanging out with her friends, making videos, and is energetic, confi-
dent and adventurous. She is a great big sister to Katelin with whom she’s sharing her special day. Her
parents, Spencer and Maria are very proud of her and look forward to celebrating her Bat Mitzvah.
Katelin Morgan
March 7, 2020
Katelin is a TBAM graduate and is in 6th grade at Riviera Preparatory. She is an excellent student, gifted
dancer and is on the cheerleading squad. She loves being a “Bulldog,” spending time with her friends,
shopping, and going to the beach. Katelin has a passion for fashion and design and loves cuddling with
her cat Peanut. She is grateful to be able to share her special day with her big sister Amanda. Her parents,
Spencer and Maria are very proud of her and we look forward to celebrating her Bat Mitzvah.
Harrison Lamnin
March 14, 2020
Harrison is a 7th grade honor roll student at Ransom Everglades Middle School, and a graduate of Temple
Beth Am Day School. He enjoys playing football for Ransom, video games and spending time with friends.
He is super smart, witty and compassionate. His parents Adam and Dawn, and his younger sister,
Lauren are so proud of him and his accomplishments, and are looking forward to celebrating his special
day.
Do you know Josh Friedmann,
Daniel Simmendinger and Mara Rosenbaum?
Josh, Daniel and Mara are three students from our sister synagogue in Hamburg, Germany called Liber-
ale Judische Gemeinde Hamburg, the Liberal Jewish Community of Hamburg. Hamburg is where Reform
Judaism began. Today, this community which was founded in 2004 is reestablishing a Reform Jewish
presence that was torn from its roots during the Shoah. On Shavuot this year, Josh, Daniel and Mara will
celebrate their B’nai Mitzvah. They are looking to enrich their joyous day by sharing it with B’nai Mitz-
vah students from Temple Beth Am. We are looking for 6th or 7th graders to “twin” their Bar Mitzvah
or Bat Mitzvah with one of the students from Hamburg. Get to know each other through skype, email,
Whatsapp. Share what it’s like to be Jewish in Miami and hear what it’s like to be Jewish today in Germa-
ny. Get to know someone from a different culture who is also having a Bar Mitzvah or a Bat Mitzvah–see
what is different, or the same. Maybe make a friend for life. Contact me to find out how to participate in
this Mitzvah Project for your Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah.
Contact Rabbi Aklepi at 305.667.6667 or via email at jaklepi@tbam.orgSund
a
April y,
26,
2020
5th Annual 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament
In partnership with the American Diabetes Association,
join us in the fight against diabetes, One Dunk at a Time!
Games for Girls & Boys in 3rd–12th Grades
at the U-Miami Basketball Practice Facility
Questions? Contact Jeff Marcus at jmarcus@mnrlawfirm.com
Community Service Hours Available
— — — — — — — — — — — — — PRESENTING SPONSORS — — — — — — — — — — — — —
COURT SPONSORS SLAM DUNK SPONSORS
Fain Family The Marcus
Foundation Family
— — — — — — — — — — — — — ALL-STAR SPONSORS — — — — — — — — — — — — —
All proceeds go to our partner, the American Diabetes Association, to fund research and outreach programs. The ADA’s impact in the fight to stop diabetes
can be felt on every corner in every community. From backyards to schoolyards, from research laboratories to health care providers’ offices and from
diagnosis to beyond, we are fighting to make sure that individuals, children and families across the country have the resources and care that they need.
Complete Details-Registration at tbam.org/dunks
Page 19Commentator March 2020 • Page 20
TIKKUN OLAM
Thank you for participating in another
successful Mitzvah Day! You helped make
the world a better place!
Mitzvot at the Purim BAFTY’s Jog for Jenny
Carnival on March 8!
While we enjoy the rides, games, treats, and A 5K Walk/Run benefitting Camp Jenny, a weekend camp
fun at the Purim Carnival, Temple Beth Am experience at URJ’s Camp Coleman for underprivileged
will also be engaging in Tikkun Olam, includ- inner-city youth
ing sending letters to our pioneer members. Sunday, March 15
7:30 - 9:30 a.m.
Join our passionate teens for a morning of fitness and fun
as they raise money for their NFTY philanthropy, Camp
Jenny.
You can support this mitzvah by registering for Jog for
Jenny and/or sponsoring an underprivileged child.
Tikkun Olam Purim Blood Drive
Sunday, March 8 For more information see page 30.
11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Give blood, save a life! VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
We know you’ve got it in you! (no basketball experience required)
For more information contact Dunks for Diabetes
Susan Rosenthal at educatorsusan@aol.com 5th Annual 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament
Sunday, April 26
We are thrilled to welcome youth from In partnership with the American Diabetes Association,
community organizations and their caregivers, join us in the fight against diabetes, One Dunk at a Time!
for an all-expenses-paid day of carnival fun! It For more information see page 19.
is truly heartwarming to see those smiles, and Questions? Ready to help?
to know that we provide a special opportunity Contact Niki Marcus nicolemarcus1@bellsouth.net
for them to be joyful and care-free for a while.
Join TBAM at Miami Beach Gay Pride • Sunday, April 5
Temple Beth Am will be participating in the Miami Beach Gay Pride Festival and Parade.
Please join us to celebrate the unique spirit and culture of the LGBTQ community!
Participate in an interfaith worship service at 11:00 a.m. then ride on a float in the Pride Parade!
Contact Rabbi Greengrass at rgreengrass@tbam.org for more information about this awesome
experience for the whole community!
If you’re interested in joining the Tikkun Olam Committee, please email
Shelley Jacoby at Shelley@allinonedirectms.comS P E C I A L
E N T A TIME TO REMEMBER
N O U N C E M
A N The Temple Beth Am
High Holy Day Youth Choir
will perform at the
Holocaust Memorial
observance of Yom Hashoah
April 19 • 6:30 p.m.
1933-45 Meridian Avenue
Miami Beach, FL. 33139
PLEASE PLAN TO ATTEND!
Brotherhood_March2020 2/4/20 7:32 AM Page 1
Brotherhood of Temple Beth Am presents...
Dr. Marc Agronin, author of
The End of Old Age
Thursday, March 5th, 7:00 pm
Marc E. Agronin, M.D., Senior Vice President for
Behavioral Health and CMO of the MIND Institute at
Miami Jewish Health, will speak on a hopeful and practical model of aging
— a guide to understanding how we can all make the journey better.
As a leading geriatric psychiatrist, Dr. Agronin sees both the sickest and the healthiest of
seniors, what works to make their lives better and more purposeful, and what doesn’t.
Authors may talk about aging from their particular vantage points, but Dr. Agronin is on
the front lines as he works with elderly individuals and loved ones on a daily basis.
The latest scientific research and Dr. Agronin’s experience are brilliantly distilled in
The End of Old Age, a call and a plan to no longer see aging as an implacable enemy
and start seeing it as a force for enhancing well-being, meaning and longevity.
This event is free and
open to everyone
RSVP to Janice Baisman,
jbaisman@tbam.org
Page 21TEMPLE BETH AM’S FROZEN II SHABBAT A spectacular evening for our young families, from a music and prayer filled Shabbat service led by Ana (aka Rabbi Rachel Greengrass) and Cantorial Soloist Jackie Berney. Everyone enjoyed the delicious dinner catered by Fare To Remember. Our special character guests, Elsa and Olaf entertained the children with singing, photo opps, arts and crafts, and so much more! To top off this magical evening, our very own Head Custodian, Carlos Restrepo turned Temple Beth Am into a winter wonderland!
By Dr. Lenore C. Kipper, RJE, Judaic Studies Director, Emerita
Hebrew is the Eternal Language of Judaism and the Jewish People. It transcends time and place.
The development of the Jewish calendar begins with the Torah. We “And the month of Adar was turned from sorrow to gladness, from
are given specific dates for celebrating the holidays. For example, it mourning to joy.” (Esther 9:22) The 13th and 14th of Adar…These
is written to celebrate the first day of the seventh month as a day for days are are recalled and observed in every generation, ,,,these days of
sounding the shofar, and the tenth day of the seventh month as a fast Purim will never cease among the Jews, and the memory of them shall
day. It is also written to celebrate Passover on the fifteenth day of the not perish among their descendants. (Esther 9:28-29)
first month. This brings us to the question, why does there seem to be
a question about when the new calendar year begins? It is only since Purim, pay-reish-mem, name of the holiday
the first century that the Hebrew calendar established the names of the What does the name of the holiday mean? In the story Haman casts
months. This was done by the Babylonian Jewish leaders. Therefore, lots to choose the day he was going to destroy the Jews. The word for
the first month of the Jewish calendar is called Nisan and the last lots is pur. From this we get the name of the holiday.
month is called Adar. Since it was based on a lunar system, they had to Every Purim we celebrate, retell the story, remember the message, and
add a second month of Adar to coincide with the cycle of the sun. (You have fun! Purim is for the family, adults and children, to be celebrated
can learn more about this from many sources.) with the community with the reading of Megillat Esther.
Adar, alef-dalet-reish, last month of Jewish calendar. Mishloach Manot, mem-shin-lamed-chet, mem-nun-tav,
The month of Adar always celebrates the holiday of Purim. It sending of food gifts
remembers the story told in the Book of Esther, which is included in One of the customs of Purim is the sending of food baskets, especially
the third section of the Jewish Bible, the Writings, K’tuvim. Why was to those who are ill, or not able to join the community celebrations.
it included in the Bible ? There are some scholars that believe this story The other customs include Purim plays, dressing up in costumes,
is an historical novel written to deliver an important serious message having a festive dinner, and arranging for carnival games related to the
for Jews who live in the Diaspora. History or fiction, it is a story about Purim characters and events.
courage, sacrifice, loyalty,and taking a risk to save the Jewish People.
If you have not participated in a Purim celebration since you were a
Megillat Esther, mem-gimel-lamed-tav, alef-samech-tav- child, or when your children were young, try it again. It is time to
reish, scroll of Esther. remember!
The main characters of the story are Esther, Mordecai, Haman and the
King of Persia, Achashverosh. It is a story of Jews living as a minority Chag Purim Sameach!
in a country that becomes intolerant toward the Jewish people. After
Esther is chosen as the new queen, Mordecai, Esther’s cousin (some
say uncle) tells Esther not to let the king know she is Jewish. Why? Lenore
Mordecai refuses to bow down to Haman, the King’s appointed leader.
This makes Haman very angry, and he began a planned a plot that
sought to annihilate the Jewish People. Haman becomes the symbol of
all anti-Semites in history. He convinced the king:
“There is a certain people scattered abroad and dispersed among the
peoples… their laws are different …they do not obey the king’s laws,
and the king should not tolerate them.” (Esther3:8).
Haman receives the king’s approval and decree to rid the
kingdom(empire) of the Jews. Mordecai tells Esther she must go to the
Hebrew Alephbet Chart
king and tell him she is Jewish and reveal Haman’s plot to destroy all
the Jews. No one is allowed to go before the King unless summoned by
him. Esther takes the risk, saying, “If I perish, I perish.” Once a royal
decree is issued it cannot be annulled. But the King issues a second
decree that the Jews were permitted to defend themselves. The story
ends with the death of Haman and his sons and the victory of the Jews.
The full text of megillat Esther is not vey long. I recommend you read
it to get all the details of the story. It would make a great movie or
Broadway play! You will find it in any Jewish Bible (JPS). It is a story
written for adults. The message is a warning to Jewish communities
who live as a minority in the Diaspora. Hatred of the foreigner and the
stranger is still prevalent throughout the world, and especially the rise
of anti-Semitism in the U.S. and anti-Israel resolutions at the U.N. still
exists. In spite of everything, the Jewish People has survived to tell
and retell this story.
Page 23DEAR SISTERS, February was an exciting month for Sisterhood. The nominating committee met and presented a slate of officers and board members for the board’s approval. At the February 19th board meeting, the board unanimously approved the nominating committee’s recommendations. The slate of officers and board members will be printed in the April Commentator. It is so exciting to see the quality of leadership that will continue to steer the course of Sisterhood’s programs. I especially want to thank Adrian Dubow for her guidance during this process. Sincerely, Judy Cowan, Sisterhood President We have much more to look forward to... March 4 COOKING FOR PASSOVER Chaired by Amy Mittelberg, this program features Chef Sarah Davidoff. We will be making and eating a Passover appetizer, kugel and dessert. There will be recipes and goodies to take home. $20 Sisterhood members; $25 non-members. You must register for this event www.tbam.org/passovercooking 7:00 pm Catering Kitchen 5 12 SISTERHOOD BOOK CLUB SISTERHOOD BOARD MEETING The Library Book Open to all Sisterhood Members! by Susan Orlean 10:00 am – Noon 7:00 – 9:00 pm Adult Reading Room Adult Reading Room
RUBELL MUSEUM TOUR
— MARCH 31, 2020 —
Join Sisterhood for an exceptional journey through contemporary art of the past 50 years as we tour the
Rubell Museum, which is housed in six former industrial buildings. Here we’ll find a museum-wide installation
of works that chronicle key artists, moments and movements in vital arts centers over the past five decades
from all over the globe. The inaugural exhibition encompasses more than 300 works by 100 artists,
providing one of the most far-ranging museum exhibitions of contemporary art ever presented.
We will meet at 9:45 am under the canopy on the east side of JC Penny’s Dadeland. From there we will
carpool to the Rubell Museum located at 1100 NW 23 Street (there is gated parking behind the museum).
A docent will lead us through the museum. For those who would like to join us after the tour, we will have
lunch (at your own expense) in their indoor/outdoor restaurant overlooking a lovely garden courtyard.
$40 Sisterhood Members | $50 Non-Members
Please RSVP at www.tbam.org/rubellmuseum
Save the April
Date... 1 WOMEN’S TORAH STUDY, 7:00 pm
6 PEOPLE OF THE BOOK CLUB, 10:00 am
Farewell to Salonica: City at the Crossroads by Leon Sciaky
14 SISTERHOOD BOARD MEETING, 10:00 am
23 SISTERHOOD GAME NIGHT, 7:00 pm
Join your friends for an evening of fun and laughter playing some of your
favorite classic games. Let us know if you want to play Mahjong, Canasta,
Scattergories, Bananagrams, or Dominos. Or if you have no preference,
you can just look forward to laughter, friendship, snacks and drinks!
$10 Sisterhood members; $15 non members
RSVP at www.tbam/sisterhoodgames
Check out our website at www.tbam.org/sisterhood
For more information on all programs, please e-mail us at sisterhood@tbam.org.
Please include your phone number so we can call you back.Commentator March 2020 • Page 26
TEMPLE BETH AM DAY SCHOOL
AUCTION + GALA HONORING DR. STARR
THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2020
SOCIAL HALL, LEWIS FAMILY RELIGIOUS LIFE COMPLEX
COCKTAILS, FOOD + FUN LIVE AND SILENT AUCTION
ADVANCED ADMISSION: $50 PER PERSON | DOOR ADMISSION: $75 PER PERSON
ADULT ONLY EVENT - CHILDCARE AVAILABLE BY REQUEST
FAMILY SPONSORSHIPS
ICON Jolie & Michael Berkowitz LEAD SINGER RISING STAR Jennifer Ferriss-Hill & Robert Hill Amy & Rickey Mittelberg
Sara & Alex Berkowitz Barbara & Alex Havenick Andrew & Felicia Berkowitz Evan & Amy Abramowitz Chad & Randi Friedman Kate Myers & Jonathan Etra
Natalie & Justin Firestone Angelina & Joshua Kaye Pamela & Brian Chartock Fernando & Viviana Akerman Penny Gaines The Olivella Family
The Clergy of Temple Beth Am Lauren & Ilan Kempler The Cruz Family The Avila Family Stacey & Adam Geiger The Panahpour Family
MULTI-PLATINUM Juliana & Alex Krys Ashley, Alexa & Bradley Firestone The Baer Family Ilana & Yariv Gilat The Pickens Familly
Erika Berger & Mitch Vento Kate Lampen-Sachar & Katie & David Goldberg Wendy & Jonathan Baumgard Phil & Loren Gold Bryan & Jenna Pinchuk
Susana & Michael Novak Dan Sachar Evan & Stephie Goldman Mara Berger Susie & Joe Goldberg Jessica Rivo
ENCORE The Messianu Family Kim & Greg Haller Tim & Jennifer Bielawski Claudia & Todd Gomberg Lindsay & Josh Rubens
Alexandra & Gregory Frankel The Mirabito Family Rebecca & Michael Havenick Rosalie Binder Mallory & Jonathan Greenberg Randi & Greg Sandler
The Gluck Family Lily & Alex Moskovitz Melissa & Noah Kalman Elizabeth & Clinton Biondo Ava Habif Lauren & Brett Schneider
The Karsenti Family Jessica & Adam Moskowitz The Proman Family Natalie Breslin The Hermann-Grose Family Kim & Jonathan Schwartz
Michelle & Gary Kramer Marc & Allison Pacin JP & Ashley Rosenbaum Miselie Charite Michele & Paul Kaplan Sarah & Allan Serviansky
Stephen & Cayla Rutchik Mycki & Stuart Ratzan Rachel & Alexander Schapiro Michelle & Manuel Chica Nicole & Ryan Kaplan Amy & Ethan Shapiro
Elion & Rebecca Vinocur Michele & Derek Sanders Danielle & Scott Squires Michelle & Steve Cohen Jason & Susie Katz Rabbi Judith & Brian Siegal
The Yarckin Family Drew & Lizzie Schaul Jennifer & Brad Sturges Adam & Jennie Cohn Rabbi Judith & Daniel Kempler Lori Smith
Andrew & Jacqueline Schimel Johanna & Tomer Tzur Deena & Andrew Cromer Alexandra & Ross Kestin Kerri & Joshua Stone
STANDING OVATION
Fran Berrin & Family Lauren & Adam Schwartz The Zimbler Family The Dubovy Steinbaum Family Dr. Lenore Kipper Dara Webman &
Bianca & Maurice Gabay Jen & Tadd Schwartz Nicole & Warren Zinn Jennifer & Aubrey Duffy Lindsey & Ryan Lamchick Jonathan Trestyn
Ella Siegal & Dylan Shapiro Hagit & Gregory Fefferman The Larkin Family Ophelia & Robert Valls
HEADLINER
Rachel & Ryan Bailine & Family Howard & Deborah R. Starr Lisa & Marc Feigelson Michael & Starr Mautner Greg & Lauren Weintraub
The Beekman Family Solomon & Jacqueline Wechsler The Feinman-Short Family Annie & Josh Migdal Jaime & Marvin Williams
The Winkleman Family Sonia Zeledon
GRANDPARENT SPONSORSHIPS
Arnaldo & Cathay Abreu in honor of Ashley, Alexa & Bradley Firestone Harvey Goldman & Rivka Blattner in honor of Brooke & Joely Marilyn & Peter Roth in honor of Hunter & Aria Berkowitz
Elsa & Jerry Askowitz in honor of Nicolas Pidre Elise & Allan Goldner in honor of Mallory Goldner Eliana Sachar in honor of Sophia & Isabelle Sachar
Michele & Scott Baena in honor of Ava & Olivia Gabay Susan & Alan Habacht in honor of Jack Habacht Steven Saposnik in honor of Ariel Gilat
Sandra Baer in honor of Daniela Baer Barbara Havenick & Len Morrison in honor of Griffin, Ashton, Claire & Richard Savitt in honor of Grace Savitt
Babbi & Brad Bangel in honor of Benji Bangel Jordan, Gavin Havenick & Jacob Bielawski Inez Schapiro in honor of Sloane & Tyler Schapiro
Shelley & David Barras in honor of Ethan Barras Ann Kathryn Kagan in honor of Annabelle Kagan David & Alison Schimel in honor of Cameron Schimel
Tracey & Bruce Berkowitz in honor of Hunter & Aria Berkowitz Debra & Leonard Kalman in honor of Harlow, Sydney & Zoe Kalman The Serviansky Family in honor of Jake Serviansky
Josefina Bonet in honor of Conrad Habif Sherie Kanziger & Robert Mayer in honor of Riley Greenberg Diane & Morton Setchen in honor of Brooke Porter Setchen
Susanne Brody in honor of Lillian & Cece Kramer Jack & Shirley Kaplan in honor of Alyson Kaplan Lois Marks Shapiro in honor of Dylan & Heather Shapiro
Ellen & Jon Channing in honor of Scarlett Spiegel Marlene & Joel Kaplan in honor of Ryder Kaplan Ruth & Bob Simeone in honor of Sydney & Zoey Schwartz
Roberta & Warren Cohen in honor of Ryan & Coby Mark Michael & Susan Klaiman in honor of Cameron Schimel Andrea & Michael Slobodkin in honor of Ashton & Griffin Havenick
Risa & Matthew Connolly in honor of Cameron Rasken Sam & Lucy Krislav in honor of Leo & Victor Krislav Jayne & Clarke Smith in honor of Ashley, Alexa & Bradley Firestone
Ralph & Doris Connor in honor of Louisa Fein Rabbi Norman & Shoshi Lipson in honor of Lyla & Samuel Finck Linda & John Sokolowicz in honor of Gracie Savitt
Helene & Barry Debowsky in honor of Elizabeth & Benjamin Debowsky Aida & Neil Littauer in honor of Dalia & Ari Schwartz Paula Solomon in honor of Jordana Branciforte
Rita Diaz in honor of Valentina Iglesias Susan & Ray Malca in honor of Ari & Ezra Malca Meryl & Brian Spector in honor of Ellie & Carly Spector, Ava &
Yvette & Robert Doherty in honor of Deanna Zimmerman Frank & Kathy Mendelblatt in honor of Michael Mendelblatt Harper Friedman
Thomas Elmore in honor of Theo Yagen Elmore Papa Chuck Mendlestein in honor of Jake & Ava Mendlestein Kevin & Judith Spiegel in honor of Scarlett Lennon Spiegel
Paul Feinsilver in honor of Alex Feinsilver Sheila Mendlestein in honor of Jake & Ava Mendlestein Shelly & Cliff Stamler in honor of Blake Canida & Jacob Serviansky
Henry & Nadine Feldman in honor of Orly Feldman Lori Mishkin & Andrew Kern in honor of Sam Mishkin Pam & Richard Strassberg in honor of Ari & Sarah Karsenti
John & Ellen Feltman in honor of Demi Schneider Craig & Deirdre Nash in honor of Gus Savett Linda Timmons in honor of Gabriel & Haley Timmons
Sherry & Glen Firestone in honor of Ashley, Alexa & Bradley Firestone Dr. Samuel & Alicia Oberstein in honor of Sophia & Abraham Oberstein Thomas & Lynn Valerius in honor of Judson Valerius
Cheryl & James Fishman in honor of Mason Riley Geiger & Alice Palombo in honor of Benjamin & Elizabeth Debowsky Elizabeth & Rene Valverde in honor of Nicholas Valverde
Skyler Hudson Geiger Annette & Tom Palombo in honor of Ben & Lizzie Debowsky Jackie & Earl Wald in honor of Alicia Garrett & Dylan Lomnitzer
Linda & David Frankel in honor of Vince & Ryder Frankel Ida & Steven Plotkin in honor of Riley Sobie Bonnie Webman in honor of Jonah Trestyn & Bex Salzar
Susan Fuhrman in honor of Elle, Mia & Poppy Fuhrman Mark & Robin Proman in honor of Sophie & Sadie Proman Andee & Danny Weiner in honor of Morgan Parodi,
Linda & Joel Gluck in honor of Reese, Brooks & Dane Gluck Dr. Trevor & Jennifer Resnick in honor of Shane & Jake Glasser Madison Parodi & Madilyn Reyes
David & Bonnie Gold in honor of Simon, Colin, Maddox & Harlow Gold Arlene & Steven Reznick in honor of Aiden Greenfield Mercedes Weitzman in honor of Alvaro & Jonathan Gorrin
Lester & Eleanor Goldberg in honor of Madeline Goldberg Roberta & Norman Rittner in honor of Lilli Greidinger Lynn & Howard Zusman in honor of Cooper & Sawyer Haller
ANNUAL AUCTION CO-CHAIRS
as of February 10, 2020 SARA BERKOWITZ and NATALIE FIRESTONEYou can also read
