During our Zoom Caring Committee meeting in July, we decided to do a small gift of an apple and honey stick for each of our member/family units as a sweet outreach to our beloved congregation. Judy and Gary Schumer researched and purchased gift bags, “Shanah Tovah from Temple Sinai” stickers, and honey sticks. We then moved onto the task of assembling and delivering and we decided to add the new Jewish calendars for 5781 to the New Year goody bag.

First, thanks and appreciation to Mike Stombaugh who graciously put up with my requests for sorted lists and email blasts. On Sunday, September 13, five volunteers met to assemble 170 gift bags. I had numerous members offer to help, some even traveling quite a distance from their homes to deliver to zip codes without volunteers. Thank you, thank you, to all these wonderful people who assembled gift bags and delivered to congregants: Marilyn Bowie, Robert Colt, Lynne Daus, Neva Donovan, Amy and Jay Goldberg, Jane Grossman, Talia Guzman, Mindy Hertz, Harvey Katz, Joe Merkin, Marjie Newman and Joel Flamenbaum, Marilyn Rappaport, Julia Rubin, Sheila Sirkin, Heidi Slater, Pam and Rod Sloan, Gail Small, Rabbi Emerita Myra Soifer, Judith Strasser, Ronnie Varney, and Leah Wilds. They are all a remarkable team of volunteers! Lastly, a huge thank you to my Doug who helped me with spreadsheets, schlepping, and deliveries.

We have received several emails and phone calls thanking us for the thoughtfulness. May this year, despite many recent difficulties and tragic events, hold some bright spots and joy with prayers for good health for all of us and our families.

With my affection and gratitude to each of you,
Saundra Goodman