Beth David Synagogue’s Luncheon Speaker Series will continue with Michael Weinstein speaking on Saturday, December 9. Weinstein’s talk, “The Art and Mystique of Judaic Collectibles,” will focus on the history of Judaic artifacts that date back to biblical times, and will include information about modern Judaica. Hanukkah-related collectibles will also be displayed. People are encouraged to attend the morning service, which begins at 9:30 am. There is no charge for the luncheon.
Weinstein’s childhood interest in history led to his full-time involvement in the world of antiques and collectibles. He will also talk about how this interest in historical artifacts led him to establish the Bundy Museum of History and Art, on Main Street in Binghamton.
“Michael has a wealth of knowledge that he has generously agreed to share with us to enrich our Hanukkah celebrations,” said organizers of the event. “We also look forward to his increasing our appreciation of Judaica artifacts that we may have purchased, that may have been handed down to us, or that we may have seen in museums.”
Organizers added, “Michael and Malka Weinstein’s contributions to our community started almost immediately when they moved to Binghamton from Ithaca in 1987. What began as a desire to enroll their two daughters in Hillel Academy grew to an incredible involvement in enriching our local community. Some of us remember how Michael’s father, Jack Weinstein, of blessed memory, revitalized the Yiddish program at Binghamton University. As the saying goes, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree!”
Weinstein grew up in New York City and his formal education began with nine years in a yeshiva day school. During his college years at Cornell, he continued his Jewish studies and was hired to teach and help conduct services at Temple Brith Sholom in Cortland, an association that continues to this day. Weinstein taught music and Jewish history at Hillel Academy and, from1995-97, and served as principal and teacher at Temple Israel’s Religious School.
Beth David’s Luncheon Speaker Series takes place the second Saturday of the month. Since the monthly series’ continuation depends on the generosity of contributors, Beth David welcomes and appreciates donations to the Luncheon Fund in order to keep the program going. Donations as well as sponsorships can be made in honor of, or in memory of, someone, or to mark a special occasion. Those wishing an acknowledgment to be sent to the person being honored, or to the family of someone being remembered, can indicate that along with the necessary information. Donations can be sent to Beth David Synagogue, 39 Riverside Dr., Binghamton, NY 13905, Attention: Luncheon Fund.