A not so brief history of Congregation Sinai Print
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A not so brief history of Congregation Sinai
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1990s

 By the 1990's the buildings were in need of updating again. The sanctuary was remodeled in April & May of 1991. The funds were raised at a Siyum held at the Mirkin family home where a Torah from Russia was donated by Barry's mother Vera and was then completed by a Sofer. These upgrades included a new bima, oak covering on the beams, new carpeting and floors and air-conditioning. In 1992 new entry doors were installed and Dan & Barbara Weinberg donated funds to secure a P/A system. Larry Goldberg donated new carpeting for the sanctuary while Maurice Tofig donated new carpeting for the Social Hall in 1993.

There were so many Sinai members who throughout the years have devoted their time, energy, financial assistance, and love in order to keep the congregation thriving. Two of those individuals were Rita Jacobson and Jerry Markus who were jointly honored by Congregation Sinai on May 5th of 1990 for their many years of involvement and dedicated service to the congregation.
Rita joined Sinai in 1956 at the age of 21 and served on the Sisterhood Board through 1965 holding every office but president. She was actively involved in the Jewish Community Council, the Federation campaigns and on the Board of Hadassah for six years. She served as recording and corresponding secretary, financial chair and Vice-President of the Board of Directors where she continues to add her valuable input.
Jerry Markus was also an influential member. Shortly after joining Sinai, Jerry served on the Board of Directors, including a two-year period where he was the President of the congregation. He also served on rabbi selection committees, chaired the rabbi coordination committee and served as the continuous Yom Ha'atzmaut chairman.

As Sinai grew there was the desire on the part of several families to create an egalitarian minyan. This was a large step for most congregants and it was put to a vote a few times before it was approved. On the eve of its 40th anniversary, Sinai was once again seeking to broaden its spiritual umbrella. As the two groups struggled to create an environment where everyone was comfortable, Rabbi Eitan Julius was hired.