Mazal Tov to Oliver Elkiner!
The entire community joins in wishing a huge Mazal Tov to Oliver Elkiner on his Bar Mitzvah! It was a truly beautiful sight to see Oliver lead the services with such poise and precision, especially as he read from the Torah with such care.
A Global Voice: Oliver delivered his speech in
English • Spanish • French
Kol Hakavod to Oliver on an incredible job done. We wish you continued blessings as you grow to be a Chassid, a Yirei Shamayim (one who fears Heaven), and a Lamdan (a scholar). May you always be a source of nachas to your family and our entire community!
Mazal Tov to the entire Elkiner family!
A Home for Our Milestones: The Giniger Family Tree of Life
Since our move to the JCC, we have been working behind the scenes to ensure our community’s history has a place of honor. We are thrilled to share that the Giniger Family Tree of Life arrived this week! This beautiful board will once again showcase the family celebrations and milestones that make our community so vibrant.
This initiative, spearheaded by Mauricio Chmelnik and Marcos Geller, also includes a brand-new Mobile Bima arriving in the next two weeks. This solution allows us to maintain the beauty and sanctity of our services with the flexibility our new space requires.
We thank our Morning Minyan Contributors:
Mauricio Chmelnik • Marcos Geller • Russell Giniger • Ari Loebl • Kenny Hamlet • David Benson • Rony Goldstein • Rabbi Drori • Rabbi Dr. Eldad Drori • Andy Levin
We are so thankful and appreciative of this incredible group effort to enhance our sanctuary.
Stay Connected & Informed
Our community thrives when we celebrate and support one another through every stage of life. To help us stay organized and ensure your family’s important dates are recognized, we are asking all members to create or update their account information.
By keeping your profile current, you help us keep track of:
- ✓ Hebrew Birthdays for the entire family
- ✓ Annual Yahrtzeit observances and reminders
- ✓ Correct contact details for community updates
- ✓ Family lifecycle milestones
It only takes a few minutes to ensure your info is correct!
Update Your Profile Here →Your privacy is our priority. All information is held securely within our community management system.
Elevating the Day: Moishy Sharf’s Birthday Aliyah
This past Monday morning, our services were uplifted as we welcomed Moishy Sharf for a special Aliyah in honor of his birthday!
It is always a powerful moment when a community member chooses to celebrate the day "Hashem said you complete the world" by standing before the Torah. Starting a new year of life with a Mitzvah and an Aliyah brings a special Bracha, not just to the individual, but to our entire Chabad family.
Mazal Tov, Moishy! May this year be filled with health, happiness, and continued growth!
Celebrating a Hebrew Birthday soon? We would love to honor you with an Aliyah!
Contact the office to coordinate.
Shavuot 5786
Celebrating the Giving of the Torah—Open to All
As we prepare to gear up for another great Shavuot experience, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the families whose early support ensures our Annual Shavuot Celebration remains open and accessible to every community.
A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors:
From the reading of the Ten Commandments to our community dairy celebration, your involvement makes these moments possible.
Join these families in making Shavuot special!
Sponsor & View Schedule →Lag BaOmer: A Night of Pure Joy
This past May 5th was a historic night for our community! Over 500 people gathered in incredible unity. Between the rides, the petting zoo, and the BBQ, the energy was electric. The highlight was undoubtedly Gad Elbaz live in concert—when he performed "Hashem Melech," the crowd reached new heights of inspiration!
Mazal Tov to the Fine Family on Sara's Engagement!
A massive Mazal Tov to Gil and Doreen Fine on the joyous news of the engagement of their daughter, Sara, to Avraham Eichenblatt of Los Angeles!
As our community continues to grow and share in one another's milestones, we are delighted to celebrate this beautiful new beginning. We wish the happy couple a lifetime of only blessings and joy.
"May you be blessed with building a Binyan Adei Ad Al Yisodei Torah U’mitzvos—an everlasting edifice built upon the foundations of Torah and Mitzvot!"
Wishing the Fine and Eichenblatt families much nachas!
The Heart of the Week: Shabbat Afternoons at the Rabbi’s
As the Shabbat days grow longer, our community has found a beautiful way to soak up every last drop of holiness. Every week, men, women, and children have been gathering at the Goodman residence for a soulful Seudah Shlishit and a high-energy Havdalah.
From the sounds of children playing together to the inspirational songs and words of Torah that fill the room, it is a true social and spiritual highlight. For many of our families, this is the definitive highlight of the week—a moment that truly showcases the beauty and warmth of the Monterra community.
"Starting the new week together, filled with inspiration and community light."
Looking to join us for our next Shabbat afternoon gathering?
Contact Admin for Info →Rising Through the Ranks: Aleph Champ Success!
This past Sunday was an incredible day of growth at our Hebrew School! Our students have been working harder than ever, and we are seeing a massive wave of students "Rising through the Ranks" in our Aleph Champ curriculum.
From White Level to Black Level, the dedication to mastering Hebrew reading is truly inspiring. With only a few weeks left in the school year, our students are pushing for a high-impact finish, aiming to reach their next color goal before our grand graduation ceremony!
"Hard work pays off in the language of our people. Go Champs!"
Don't forget: Our Hebrew School Graduation is coming up on Sunday, May 17th! Let's keep that momentum going!
Deep Truths & Big Laughs: The BMC Bond
This past Monday, our Bat Mitzvah Club "zeroed in" on the three cornerstone Mitzvot specifically entrusted to the Jewish woman. While the exploration of our heritage was deep and meaningful, the energy in the room was purely electric!
Between the "Aha!" moments of discovery, there were plenty of laughs, cheering, and genuine good times. It is beautiful to see how these girls have moved beyond being just classmates—they have truly formed a lasting bond.
"Celebrating the beauty of our heritage with a sisterhood that grows stronger every week!"
Stay tuned for details on our upcoming Bat Mitzvah Club Ceremony!
Mazal Tov on the Engagement of Andrea & Roger!
We are overjoyed to share the wonderful news of the engagement of our dear community member, Andrea Greenbaum, to Roger (Reuven) Green!
It is always a special moment when two souls find one another and decide to build a future together. We wish the couple tremendous Bracha and success as they embark on this exciting new chapter.
"May you be blessed with building a Binyan Adei Ad—an everlasting edifice among the Jewish people!"
Community Unity Event
Lag BaOmer
Live in Concert
Monday, May 4th @ 5:00 PM
Featuring Israeli Sensation
GAD ELBAZ
Chabad at Monterra is thrilled to join forces with Chabad of SWB and our local partner organizations for the ultimate Lag BaOmer celebration! This is more than just a bonfire—it’s a night of high-energy Jewish music, unity, and fun for the entire family.
Secure your spot for the biggest night of the season!
Learn More →Generational Wisdom: Real Truths from Rebbitzen Malky
The 360 Pause
"Slowing down at 44 and finding the view."
We are incredibly proud to announce the launch of Rebbitzen Malky’s new blog, the Generational Wisdom Project. This isn't just another lifestyle blog—it’s Malky shooting straight from the hip, sharing the real truths, struggles, and inspirations that shape a Jewish life today.
Her debut piece, 'The 360 Pause,' reflects on the milestone of turning 44 and the profound power of finally slowing down to see the full picture. It’s raw, relatable, and deeply moving.
Read the first piece and join the journey:
Visit the Blog →Kneading Connection: BMC Challah Bake
There is something truly special about the mitzvah of Challah, especially when shared with the next generation of Jewish women! Our Bat Mitzvah Club had an incredible time this week joining Elky for a hands-on Challah bake.
From the flour and water to the intricate braids, the girls didn't just learn a recipe—they tapped into a tradition that has spanned generations. It was a beautiful evening of laughter, learning, and the amazing aroma of fresh dough.
"Taking the 'magic' of the BMC into the kitchen and beyond!"
Our BMC continues to grow! If you have a daughter approaching her Bat Mitzvah, reach out to Elky: [email protected]
Brotherhood & Wisdom: A Pre-Lag BaOmer Gathering
There’s nothing like the energy of our monthly Men's Class! A huge thank you to Moshe Goldzweig for being such a gracious host and providing the perfect setting for our community to come together.
This session was particularly powerful as we delved into the greatness of Rabbi Akiva Exploring his life and teachings provided the perfect bridge into the upcoming Lag BaOmer season. It was a beautiful night of renewal, connection, and deep learning.
"Coming together as brothers to tap into the spirit of Lag BaOmer!"
Interested in joining the next Men's Circle? Reach out to the office for details.
Iyar Birthdays
"A birthday is the day Hashem said you complete the world."
We wish a very happy birthday to the following community members celebrating birthdays during the month of Iyar:
• Daniel Salamone — 1 Iyar (April 18)
• Stacey Elias — 2 Iyar (April 19)
• Leroy Jacob Grinberg — 2 Iyar (April 19)
• Emmie Goldberg — 2 Iyar (April 19)
• Deniese Amzaleg — 5 Iyar (April 22)
• Nicole Avigdor — 7 Iyar (April 24)
• Jacob Turner — 9 Iyar (April 26)
• Adi Goodman — 10 Iyar (April 27)
• Maya Donio — 10 Iyar (April 27)
• Charlotte Goldstein — 10 Iyar (April 27)
• Jesse Sarosi — 11 Iyar (April 28)
• Andre Faerman — 13 Iyar (April 30)
• Ben Dahan — 14 Iyar (May 1)
• David Berdugo — 14 Iyar (May 1)
• Sophia Bermudez Rozental — 16 Iyar (May 3)
• Zoey Concepcion — 16 Iyar (May 3)
• Vered Ziv — 17 Iyar (May 4)
• Joel David Aronowicz — 19 Iyar (May 6)
• Gabriel Abenhaim — 20 Iyar (May 7)
• Sophie Silverstein — 21 Iyar (May 8)
• Yossi Ainsworth — 22 Iyar (May 9)
• Meryl Green — 22 Iyar (May 9)
• Julio Adatto — 23 Iyar (May 10)
• Moishy Sharf — 23 Iyar (May 10)
• Bari Lisa Katz — 24 Iyar (May 11)
• Sydney Silverstein — 28 Iyar (May 15)
• Brandon Jacob Giniger — 29 Iyar (May 16)
• Shoshana Apellaniz — 29 Iyar (May 16)
• Isaac Moshe Bermudez Rozental — 29 Iyar (May 16)
• Ethan Mason — 29 Iyar (May 16)
Observing Yahrtzeits
We honor the memory of our community members’ loved ones by observing a Yahrtzeit in the Month of Iyar.
Gella Schweid Fishman - 20 Iyar (May 7, 26)
Sydney Rosen - 29 Iyar (May 16, 26)
May their souls have an Aliyah, and may we be reunited
With the coming of Moshiach speedily in our days!
We apologize if we missed your special day—we would love to honor you.
Please email [email protected] with your birthday or yahrtzeit dates.
Mazal Tov to Alex Schwartz on his Bar Mitzvah!
A huge Mazal Tov to the Schwartz Family on the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Alex! We are celebrating another beautiful success story from our Bar Mitzvah Club (BMC).
Alex did an absolutely amazing job, and his hard work and dedication throughout his preparation were evident to everyone in attendance. It has been a true pleasure watching Alex grow into a young man of character and Jewish pride.
Mazal Tov, Alex! We are so proud of your achievement and can't wait to see all the great things you will accomplish next.
Starting the Month with Strength: Rosh Chodesh Iyar
What a beautiful way to welcome the new month! A few months back, we made the decision to add Rosh Chodesh to our weekly Minyan schedule, and today’s turnout proved just how much our community values these moments of connection.
The energy in the room was palpable as we gathered for prayer and Hallel. Starting the month of Iyar together—a month associated with healing and renewal—reminds us of the power of showing up for one another and building a vibrant Jewish life right here in Monterra.
A Happy Rosh Chodesh to the entire community!
Want to join us for our next weekday service? Contact Hillel for times and info.
The Spring & Summer Season Guide
From graduations to community bonfires, we have an incredible lineup of events to close out the year. Mark your calendars and join us for these upcoming milestones!
Youth & Family Milestones
Holidays & Community Events
Questions about our year-end events? Reach out to us anytime!
Mazal Tov to Adiel Meraz on his Bar Mitzvah!
A massive Mazal Tov to the Meraz Family on the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Adiel! It was a beautiful and highly successful celebration, marking another proud Bar Mitzvah Club (BMC) success.
We are incredibly proud of Adiel and the growth he has shown. Having been a dedicated part of our CKids Hebrew School and Bar Mitzvah Club, we are thrilled to see him continuing his journey with CTeen Jr. Seeing our students transition through these stages with such pride and commitment is what the "Chabad at Monterra Magic" is all about.
"We wish Adiel a heartfelt blessing to continue growing in his path as a Chassid, Yirei Shamayim, and Lamdan. May he continue to be a source of nachas to his family and our entire community!"
A Sparkling Gift: Sara David Honors Rabbi Adi
The creativity and warmth of our Bat Mitzvah Club (BMC) never cease to amaze us! This past Sunday, Sara David surprised Rabbi Adi with a truly one-of-a-kind gift: a beautiful, custom "dazzled out" Kipa.
It wasn't just a beautiful piece of craftsmanship; it was a heartfelt gesture that represents the amazing girls in the BMC. Seeing our youth express their appreciation through their own artistic talents is a beautiful reminder of the vibrant, loving community we are building together. Rabbi Adi will certainly be wearing this special gift with pride!
Jewish Pride on the Streets: A BMC Reunion
The impact of our programs doesn't stop at the Chabad doors. This past week, our former Bar Mitzvah Club (BMC) student bumped into Mendel, and when two beautiful souls meet, a Mitzvah is bound to happen!
It was so moving to see our alumni carrying their Jewish pride out on the streets. They stopped to put on Tefillin right then and there—a powerful reminder that the traditions we learn in our youth become the identity we carry forever. It's so nice to see our "graduates" representing the community with such pride.
Back to Class: Hebrew School The Final Stretch
Our students didn't miss a beat! This past week was our first Sunday back after the Passover break, and the kids dove right back into their learning with amazing energy. We are officially in the home stretch and doing everything to end the year on a high note.
Pictured above: Our 4th and 5th-grade boys excelling in their daily prayer leadership. Seeing these young men take ownership of their heritage and lead their peers with such confidence is exactly what our community mission is all about.
A Grand Finale: Ending Passover with Inspiration
We ended our Passover journey on an incredible high with our annual Moshiach’s Seudah. It was a massive success, drawing a huge crowd for an evening that was equal parts inspirational, emotional, and exciting.
Celebrating the successful conclusion of such a beautiful holiday together reminded us of the strength of our community. As the sun set on Passover, the room was filled with song and hope, carrying the "magic" forward into the weeks ahead.
A Beautiful Start: Celebrating the First Days of Passover
What an incredible start to Passover at Chabad at Monterra! From our beautiful community Seder to our packed Shul services, the energy has been through the roof. It was truly moving to see a full house for our holiday services, punctuated by the powerful Cohen blessings and uplifting songs that brought us all together in spirit.
The highlight of the week was our Annual Passover BBQ, where around 120 people gathered to enjoy great food and even better company. Seeing our "One Umbrella" community celebrating together—laughing, sharing stories, and enjoying the holiday sun—made for a truly beautiful start to the month of Nissan.
Passover Charity Appeal
Our goal is to provide a meaningful Passover and to strengthen traditions and a sense of belonging within the community and beyond.
Thank you to everyone who has already opened their hearts.
Special Thanks to our Family Sponsors:
Sharf Family • Toogerman Family • Fayntuch Family
Damatov Family • Pearl Family • Fine Family
Kantor Family • Posner Family • Andrusier Family • Giniger Family • Rabin Family
Join these families in making the "Month of Miracles" possible for everyone.
Participate in the Appeal →An Evening of Inspiration: Celebrating the Rebbe’s Birthday
In honor of the Rebbe's birthday, our community gathered at the home of the Fine Family for a beautiful and soul-stirring Farbrengen. It was an evening filled with light, where we watched special videos and learned about the profound impact of this special day.
Our rabbis, Rabbi Adi and Rabbi Aharon, shared beautiful stories and words of inspiration that reminded us of the Rebbe’s vision for every individual. A special thank you to the Fine Family for hosting such a meaningful event.
Delivering Authentic Traditions: Shmurah Matzah for All
At Chabad At Monterra, we are working hard to ensure that everyone in our community has access to authentic, hand-baked Shmurah Matzah. Following the Lubavitcher Rebbe's encouragement to have real Matzah at the Seder, Together, Rabbi Adi and Rabbi Aharon are bringing the spirit of Pesach to every corner of our community by distributing matzah to local families
From our senior programming to local families and friends, this special Mitzvah ensures that every Seder table in Monterra is grounded in the tradition passed down through generations.
CKids Hebrew School: Seder in a Box!
Our CKids Hebrew School students are officially ready for the holiday! This past Sunday, the students prepared with a special Seder in a Box program. This hands-on experience gives our youth the tools and confidence they need to lead and participate in their own family Seders.
Blessing the New Moon: Kiddush Levana
Following a beautiful Shabbat Mincha and a meaningful Seudat Shlishit at the Goodmans, we gathered under the night sky for Kiddush Levana. Making the blessing on the new moon is the very first Mitzvah given to the Jewish people as a nation.
Standing together to carry this ancient tradition into the modern day was a powerful moment for all who participated, starting our week on a high spiritual note.
Rising Higher: Thursday Morning Minyan
This past Thursday, we were blessed with a beautiful morning minyan, and it was so heartwarming to see the continued growth of our weekday gathering. The strong turnout and warm sense of connection are a true testament to the thriving Jewish life we’re building together.
Want to join us for the next Minyan?
Contact Hillel at [email protected] for times and info.
Pre-Passover Prep In Malky's Kitchen
This past Wednesday night was a much-needed breath of fresh air for the women of our community! Hosted by Rebbitzen Malky, it was a beautiful evening of socializing and sisterhood. While taking a well-deserved break before the Passover rush, the ladies enjoyed a great social evening while learning some incredible new recipes and decor ideas to elevate their Seder tables. It was the perfect blend of fun, learning, and connection.
Hand-On History: The Great Matzah Bakery
This past Sunday, our Ckids Cooper City transformed into a mock, fully functioning Matzah Bakery! It was a huge success, with so many kids from the neighborhood getting a true hands-on experience. From learning the laws of "18 minutes" to seeing exactly how real Shmurah Matzah is made, the children didn't just learn history—they made it. Seeing the excitement on their faces as they crafted their own Matzah was a highlight of the pre-holiday season.
Men’s Night Out: Passover Prep & Social
This past Thursday night, March 19th, our Men’s Class took the show on the road! Hosted by Eric Robbins, the evening was a perfect blend of learning and lounging. We held a special Pre-Passover class that explored the inner meaning of the Seder, making the ancient traditions feel brand new.
The learning was followed by a great time hanging out and socializing. It’s these informal moments of connection that truly strengthen the bond of our "One Umbrella" community. A huge thank you to Eric for the wonderful hospitality!
Rosh Chodesh Nissan: Starting the Month Strong
We kicked off the month of Nissan on the right foot with a packed morning minyan! It was incredibly heartening to see such a strong turnout and the outpouring of support from our community members.
Starting the "Month of Miracles" with a full room and a shared voice reminds us of the strength we have when we show up for one another. Whether you are saying Kaddish, celebrating a simcha, or just want to start your day with intention, our doors are always open.
Want to join the Minyan?
For more info about our weekday services, contact Hillel at [email protected]
A Beautiful Union: Mazal Tov to Jacob & Nesli!
There is no greater joy for a community than seeing our own youth grow up and build their own Jewish homes. A massive Mazal Tov to the Chmelnik and Kornblum families on the beautiful wedding of Jacob and Nesli!
This was a truly emotional milestone for all of us. Nesli is a proud alumna of our CKids Hebrew School, Bat Mitzvah Club, and CTeen. Seeing her journey come full circle—from a young student in our classrooms to a radiant bride under the Chuppah—is the ultimate "magic" we strive for at Chabad.
It was a deeply moving experience for Rabbi Adi to officiate the ceremony and stand under the Chuppah with a student he has watched grow for so many years. We are incredibly proud of the woman Nesli has become and wish the young couple a lifetime of happiness, growth, and blessings.
A Soulful Start to the Week
Chazan Shawn Levine leading the community in song.
This past Motzei Shabbat was truly special. Following a beautiful Seudah Shlishit, our community gathered together for a moving Havdalah ceremony in our backyard.
The highlight of the evening was a soulful sing-along led by Chazan Shawn Levine. His voice filled the night air with incredible energy and warmth. There is truly no better way to transition into the new week than through the power of song and community under the stars.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for such an uplifting start to the week!
Mazal Tov to the Drori Family
A huge Mazal Tov to Rabbi and Mrs. Drori on the engagement of their granddaughter, Racheli Boudjena to Shlomo Jacobs! We send our warmest wishes to the entire family. May they be zoche to build a Bayit Ne’eman B’Yisrael—a faithful home among the people of Israel.
Mazal Tov on Logan’s Bat Mitzvah
Mazal Tov to the Levine family on Logan’s Bat Mitzvah! Our community celebrated a beautiful Shabbat and Seudata Shlishit in honor of this milestone. It was a joy to see everyone come together to celebrate Logan as she enters Jewish adulthood.
BMC: The Power of a Jewish Name
The Bar Mitzvah Club met this week for a deep dive into the significance of our Jewish names. The boys learned that a name isn't just a label, but a spiritual connection to our ancestors and our unique mission in the world.
Learn more about BMC →CKids: Getting into the Passover Spirit
Our Hebrew School students have jumped straight into the Passover spirit! This week, we began an in-depth study of the story and history of our Exodus from Egypt. From the Ten Plagues to the crossing of the sea, the kids are becoming experts on our journey to freedom.
New Partnership: Chabad + Judaica.com
We are excited to launch a new partnership with Judaica.com! Whether you need Tefillin, Mezuzot, or holiday essentials, this is your new home for all things Judaic. By using our unique link, you can shop with confidence, knowing we back all products as being of the highest kosher standard.
Shop via our link →Monday Minyan: L'chaim to Marcos!
Our morning minyan had an extra spark of joy this Monday as we celebrated Marcos Gelles's birthday! After davening, the guys got together to say L'chaim and share some words of inspiration. Happy Birthday, Marcos!
Purim 2026: The Magic of One Umbrella
This Purim, our community proved that when we come together under one umbrella, the energy is unstoppable. From our 80s Monday Night Bash to the quiet, meaningful moments at our local retirement centers, the spirit of the holiday reached every corner of the city.
Volunteers distributed 1,200 Mishloach Manot bags, and our hot dog cart served up 200 hot dogs to keep the celebration fueled!
Family, Flour, and Fun: The CKids Hamantash Bake
Our CKids Hebrew School was filled with the sweet scent of apricot and raspberry this week! Our family Hamantash bake was a huge hit, with parents and family members joining us at the end of our Pre-Purim session to help shape and fill the traditional treats.
The kids came dressed up in their favorite costumes, and the Purim joy was absolutely amazing. It was a beautiful sight to see the "one umbrella" in action as multiple generations shared the holiday spirit together.
Men's Class: Getting in the Purim Zone
Our Men's Class, hosted by Eric Wortman, was an enlightening experience where we delved into the significance of Purim. Participants engaged in discussions about the traditions and history of the holiday, truly getting into the Purim spirit as we shared insights and enthusiasm.
Next class will be hosted by Dr. Eric Robbins—don’t miss it
