When I moved back to NYC in 1996, I spent considerable time “shul shopping” as they call it, but I never found the right synagogue.  Prior to then, I had always belonged to a synagogue wherever I lived except for NYC.  This time I knew I needed to also join a synagogue here too.  One night in June 2001, I found myself at T&V at a Friday night service with a friend visiting from Kansas City (ah, the KC connection!).  Within minutes, I knew that I had finally found my spiritual home in New York City. My friend, Tzivia Gaba z”l, turned out to have a personal connection with Rabbi Sebert through Congregation Beth Shalom, which I was a member of while living in Kansas City. The warmth of T&V was like what I had experienced at Beth Shalom. We stayed after the service to talk with him and when we left, I promised to come back. In the Fall I started coming regularly and officially joined T&V shortly after. Thus began my Town & Village journey.

T&V was truly a warm and welcoming congregation that expanded my horizons in so many ways.  In addition to my professional life, the friendships I have found here are many and have added many experiences to my life through studying Jewish texts, Jewish history, theater and concerts, sharing meals and holidays, and so much more. Eventually I was asked to serve in more official support roles – Board of Trustees member, Secretary, then President, and Board Chair for several years – where I took a more active role in programs and projects to benefit our community.  I have also served on many committees and currently chair the Adult Education Committee.

It was also through T&V that I became involved with Hadassah as many of my friends were active in one of its chapters.  I have also served in many roles in the Hadassah Sharon Chapter and am currently serving as Hadassah New York Region President.  Clearly, I am guilty of the adage “just ask a busy person….”

It has been my honor to serve Town & Village Synagogue in so many ways.  I am grateful and overwhelmed by this honor.  I am also delighted to share this honor with my friends Joan and Leon Ashner and Mark Rifkin and Ellen Scordato.  My thanks to each of my fellow T&V members who make this night possible. I look forward to greeting you in person on this special occasion.