Eric Goodman – Co President
Spring of 2024…
In preparation for the congregational meeting in May, I reviewed the previous years meeting minutes. There is a story being told there of a journey through a year at TBS. A story about a small reform Jewish community in southern Orange County in upstate New York. Asking the Board for permission to speak with Monroe Temple Beth-El about a possible merger, and then being a part of how far along those discussions have progressed. TBS went on to have a wonderful year of programming with highlights such as the Rosh Hashanah experience at Kutz, Hanukkah at TBS where even though Yvette & I arrived late Rabbi took us aside and lit our Menorah with us, Shabbat Shirah with lovely music from two Temples (for the price of one), and of course there is nothing like a TBS Men’s Club BBQ! Point is, and you have to say this phrase correctly… we are The Little Shul That CAN!
But to introduce myself, I have to look back on my journey in Judaism. I have to thank my Grandparents Ruth & Nat who gave me a Jewish foundation growing up in Glen Cove on Long Island. I did a little digging on Congregation Tifereth Israel’s website, the conservative Shul I grew up at and found this: ‘In the early 1950s, the synagogue once again blossomed enough to outgrow its surroundings. At that point, members Louis Goldberg and Nathan Zausmer were instrumental in purchasing the 14-acre property on Landing Road, which has been home to CTI ever since.’ Yep, that’s my Grandpa Nat (Nathan), and the Temple has been at that location ever since! My Mom & Dad made sure I was schooled there with Hebrew School on Wednesdays and Religious School on Sundays. My Bar Mitzvah was with Rabbi Weisenberg and the training under Cantor Casuto. As I become Co-President of our Temple I hope to make them all very proud.
As new stories are told, and we continue on our Jewish journey’s together, you will probably also hear about what my daughter Brooke is up to – prepare yourself for Ornithology Fun Facts! Along with my son Zachary – prepare yourself for all kinds of New York Islanders updates! I save the best for last as my amazing wife Yvette, has been so supportive in raising our children in the Jewish religion. Thank you so very much for that wonderful gift!
Our journey continues, together…
Jeff Hannes – Co President
Executive Board & Trustees Jonathan Winaker – 1st VP | Gail Green |
