47th Temple Beth Israel gala centers on community

Temple Beth Israel held its 47th annual gala Feb. 22 at the Sarasota Yacht Club, celebrating the contributions of honorees Suzan and Barry Friedman to the organization.

Rabbi Howard Simon, master of ceremonies for the evening, said the community was glad to recognize the Friedmans for their kindness, love, willingness to share their time and expertise, and involvement as a family.

"It is a joy to welcome you, and for all of us to thank you for all you have done and continue to do on behalf of your temple," he said.

Suzan is the vice president for membership, and Barry is the chair of the Endowment Committee. Her parents began attending Temple Beth Israel when they moved to Longboat Key.

TBI President Lois Barson presented a gift thanking the couple for their support.

"Your generosity enables us to continue as the center of Jewish life on Longboat Key," Barson said. "We are deeply grateful for your commitment to our cause and for believing in our vision."

Among their many attributes, the Friedmans know how to speak knowledgeably and succinctly in addressing temple governance issues, Barson said. She added, "When they speak, it is worth listening."

Suzan Friedman thanked temple members for this recognition, which last year honored Kei Sulhi and Dr. Ann Stephenson-Moe.

"My parents loved Longboat Key," she said. "They took full advantage of all the cultural opportunities in nearby Sarasota. So, Barry and I have to thank them for not only passing along their Jewish traditions, but also for introducing us to this wonderful place."

She voiced her gratitude to her parents for instilling her with a passion for Judaism, a heritage she is proud to pass along to her daughters.

"My parents would be delighted to see us honored in this way," she added.

Senior Rabbi Jessica Spitalnic Mates, current leader at the temple, said the Friedman family legacy offers an informative view of how perspectives change through generations.

"Sometimes, it feels like there is an abyss between the past and the present, and sometimes, it feels so familiar," she said.

Spitalnic Mates said many family members from only a few generations earlier would have been in awe to see members of the Jewish community celebrating as they did that evening in Sarasota.

"There's a transition phase from what it was like to be a Jew in the world 100, 150 years ago," she said. "The Friedmans, as parents to their incredible children, and as children of incredible parents, have paved their way here at Temple Beth Israel."

In addition to serving their official board roles with the the temple, Suzan and Barry enrich the community with their goodness, kindness and manners, the rabbi said.

Later that evening, the temple also held an auction to support its ongoing services and programs.

Delores McKenzie and Michael Mendez from the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe closed out the evening on a musical note, paying tribute to artists including Josephine Baker and Harry Belafonte.