Temple Judea, one of the largest Reform synagogues in Miami, presented seven congregation members with special honors during its Showcase of Stars reception, in appreciation for their volunteer efforts and longtime commitment to the future of the synagogue.
These “Stars” were recognized during Temple Judea’s annual congregational meeting on Wednesday, May 16, at the syn- agogue, 5500 Granada Blvd., Coral Gables.
“The Temple Judea family is blessed to have so many dedicated and passionate volunteers as members,” said Lainey Brooks, president, who will soon complete a very successful two-year term. “The Showcase of Stars event is an opportunity for us to recognize them for their unselfish efforts and show our appreciation for everything they do.”
Temple Judea’s 2012 Showcase of Stars includes:
President’s Award — Debbie Siegel, Pinecrest. Siegel played an important role this year helping with the Building on Tradition campaign and the Dancing with the Stars fundraising event. A dedicated full-time mother and a former Women of Temple Judea president and chair of the Youth Committee, she helped to create the Linda Martin Youth Activity Fund and cur- rently is a member of the board of directors, Education Committee and youth group.
Shining Stars — Valerie and Gary
Berman, Coral Gables. Valerie and Gary co-chaired two major fundraising cam- paigns (Torat Chayim and Glee), raising tens of thousands of dollars for the syna- gogue. Gary is the incoming president who will be installed in July.
Communication Star — Janice Gates, Coconut Grove. Gates champions the pro- duction of the Temple Membership Directory and for the past two years, pro- duced the Tribute Books for the Glee and Granada Lounge fundraisers.
Rookie of the Year Star — Dana Pelletier, Coral Gables. Pelletier used her passion, enthusiasm and talent to collect items for this year’s Glee silent auction fundraiser, which raised thousands of dollars.
Teen Star — Benjy Goldberg, Pinecrest. Goldberg is the past president of the Jewish Temple Youth (JTY) group and leads by example.
Surprise Recognition — Melanie Cole Goldberg, Pinecrest. Goldberg was given an unannounced presentation of flowers for receiving an honorary doctorate in Jewish Education from the Hebrew Union College.
Now celebrating 61 years of Jewish Learning and Living in Coral Gables, Temple Judea has more than 620 member families. The congregation is led by Rabbi Edwin Goldberg and Rabbi Judith Siegal.
For more information, visit online at <www.JudeaGables.org>.
