The Beth David Luncheon Speaker Series will continue with Michael Weinstein speaking about “The Art and Mystique of Judaic Collectibles” on December 9. Weinstein will discuss Judaic artifacts, both antique and modern, and talk about the history of these artifacts, dating back to biblical times. He will also share insights about collecting Judaica. Since the luncheon will take place on the first day of Chanukah, holiday-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.” 

Weinstein and his wife, Malka, moved to Vestal from Ithaca in 1987 so their two daughters could enroll in Hillel Academy of Broome County. “At the time, we had not anticipated how much we would become involved in the local Jewish community,” Weinstein said. He taught music and Jewish history at Hillel Academy. From 1995-97, he served as principal and teacher at Temple Israel’s religious school. “Some people may nostalgically remember,” organizers say, “Malka’s involvement with the Hillel Academy Journal and her stint as the school administrator in the 1990s.”

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.

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.