Both my parents were extremely devoted to Temple Emanu-El throughout their lives, recalls David Cohen. Nina was confirmed by Rabbi Newfield and adored Rabbi Grafman. This was her synagogue. She was here 24-7, on Saturday mornings, at all the festival services and as a board member for many, many years — first as secretary and then as the congregation’s first female president.

And, this was Norman’s place too. He had a real gift for teaching and building, much to the benefit of the Temple. “Mr. Norman,” as the kids called him, taught fifth grade for many, many years and when he retired, he became known as “Mr. Fix-It”. This place became his place, and there wasn’t any repair or improvement that Noman wouldn’t tackle. One of his greatest satisfactions was creating the first outdoor sukkah for the Temple playground, a tradition which is still enjoyed today.

Both my parents in their infinite wisdom knew that building an endowment was important for our congregation’s future – it had to be there for the children and our children’s children. They were really forward thinking in setting up a Charitable Remainder Trust to benefit the Temple… and it made so much sense. To them, having a strong endowment was part of making sure that the work of Temple Emanu-El would continue forever.