Plantation Opens New Center

Ever since Sunday, 10 Sivan (May 23rd), the “Sunshine State” has been shining a bit brighter.

After almost two years of arduous labor and legal lobbying, The Chabad Shul of Plantation, Florida held their grand opening celebration on the premises of their beautiful new building.

The idea to build the new Chabad house was born nearly a decade ago, and has now become a reality. Rabbi Menachem Mendel Posner, director of Chabad of Plantation, along with his wife Chani, succeeded in achieving something deemed impossible during these tough economic times. Both radiant smiles and teary eyes filled the room during this emotional event.

“It’s truly a dream come true,” Rabbi Posner smiled, “We all just need to stay focused, move forward, and the Rebbe will find a way to make it happen.”

Rabbi Aron Pink, director of Youth Programing, and his wife Rochel, also beamed with pride. “Imagine how many more kids will be signed up for Hebrew school!” Pink exclaimed. The energy was contagious during the event, and a tangible spirit of joy illuminated the room.

There were over 500 people attending the three course dinner; among them family and friends from around the world. Mr. Ivor Bamberger, a long time friend and supporter of the Posners, was the Master of Ceremonies. Rabbi Pink gave an enlightening dvar Torah, which was followed by a video presentation. The shul was honored as well to have Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky, of Lubavitch World Headquarters, as the keynote speaker, whose dynamic talk left the crowd inspired to become even more involved in Chabad’s activities.

Rabbi Posner was the final speaker. He spoke from the heart about both his triumphs and challenges during his years as a shliach, and thanked those who had kept him strong.

He made special notice of the two honorees Yoram and Ileana Yitzcak and Eric and Anat Maller, who together helped fund a large portion of the total project. Their generosity over the years was lovingly recounted and the honorees themselves concluded the proceedings by cutting the ribbon to officially open the building.

Rabbi Posner passionately spoke about his high expectations and growth for the future, announcing that there would soon be another shliach coming to Plantation, Rabbi Pinchas Taylor and his wife Miriam, to further adult education and networking to new members. We are confident that this event is only the beginning of many new projects and institutions that the Posners will facilitate in Plantation.