Words from our Temple President, Ricki Bauman
May 2025
Shalom!
By the time that you read this column, the building repairs will be completed. All of the damage that we suffered from Hurricane Milton on October 9th will have been repaired and strengthened to better than when the building was new in 1988. Here’s what has been done:
1. All debris was removed due to the fallen attic wall.
2. The attic wall was replaced better than new with plywood
sheathing directly screwed to the studs, thicker stucco, and better
dimpled lath for the stucco to adhere to.
3. Reinforcements were placed in the interior attic wall to shorten the
distance between wall studs.
4. The entire building exterior was painted and trimmed; it hadn’t
been painted since the Social Hall was erected in 2001.
5. The sheetrock ceiling in the Bimah area that had water damage
was replaced, as was new “popcorn” treatment and ceiling paint.
And, of course, the other major trauma that we had was losing our beloved Rabbi Carla Freedman, z” l” in September. But now we are looking forward to the arrival of Rabbi Phil Cohen in July. We will be having any number of meet and greet events with Rabbi Phil to introduce him not only to the Congregation but to the greater community as well. Stay tuned!
On another note, I have appointed Suzy Reingold as Chair of our 50th Anniversary Gala and Celebration. Please respond positively when Suzy calls for your help.
L’shalom,
Ricki