Interview with Roz Lehrman
Q: Where did you grow up? Tell us about your family.
Roz: I was born in New Jersey and moved to Miami Beach when I was 3 months old. I have lived in Miami/Miami Beach ever since. I have one sibling -- an older brother -- Dr. David.
Q: We are very fortunate that you are a member of our congregation. What continues to draw you to Emanu-El?
Roz: My father, Rabbi Irving Lehrman, "built" Temple Emanu-El of Greater Miami into a world recognized sanctuary. I feel very serene and calm and I get a very spiritual feeling when I'm here. It's such a beautiful building and I love it.
Q: What's your favorite activity or aspect at the congregation?
Roz: My favorite aspect of the congregation is the feeling of warmth and family.
Q: You are a regular at Saturday morning Shabbat services and are always early! Tell us about that.
Roz: I'm a punctual person; I don't like to rush and feel harassed when I'm late. This way, I can get in the mood of prayer.
Q: Please fill me in about your professional background.
Roz: I graduated from Miami Beach Sr. High & the Univ. of Miami. I was an 8th & 9th grade English teacher at Palm Springs Jr., Nautilus Jr., & Horace Mann Jr. I loved working with the "kids" so I went back to study for my Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology. In 1981, I became a counselor at Highland Oaks Elem. until I retired. I am licensed in the state of FL as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor & am also a National Board Certified Counselor.
Q: Do you have a favorite Temple Emanu-El memory?
Roz: The image of my father chanting "Ni'Ilah" (the sacred closing service on Yom Kippur).
Q: Which Jewish holiday do you find most meaningful?
Roz: Growing up, I loved Shavuous and Confirmation class. I thought the service was beautiful--girls in white dresses carrying red roses and boys in dark suits.
Q: Do you have a favorite tzedakah project -- through volunteering, contributions, or other support?
Roz: Since retiring, I have been volunteering at Douglas Gardens, Jewish Home for the Aged. I was recognized at the end of my first year as recipient of "The New Volunteer Achiever Award". I am on the Home's Board of Directors and am Vice President of Membership of the Greater Miami Women's Auxiliary. In addition, I am a Board member of Temple Emanu-El.
Q: What is an area of Jewish learning you'd like to explore more?
Roz: At present, I'm studying the trope with Cantor Mordecai. Also, I would like to explore Kabbalah.
Q: Do you have a Jewish figure or role-model whom you admire (contemporary or past)?
Roz: Golda Meir and my parents.
Q: Any special talents or interesting trivia?
Roz: I am an avid reader (Stephen King and other thrillers and mysteries). I love animals, especially my Miniature Schnauzer and my senior citizen (24 years old) cockatiel. Also high on my list are horror movies and Sudoku.
Q: What's something that most people don't know about you?
Roz: People don't know that I'm painfully shy.
Q: Your favorite food or beverage?
Roz: I LOVE Italian food (kosher, of course).
Thank you, Roz!