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Buffalo Grove resident has a lot to celebrate
Buffalo Grove resident Bruce Darin was recently honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from Congretation Beth Judea in Long Grove. | Photo courtesy Congregation Beth Judea
Updated: November 7, 2012 7:52AM
LONG GROVE — For his years of service to Congregation Beth Judea in Long Grove, the synagogue recently awarded Bruce Darin its Lifetime Achievement Award for 2011-12.
Darin, who resides in Buffalo Grove, is a longtime member of the congregation’s board, and has volunteered for numerous projects and committees through the years.
Beth Judea Rabbi Jeff Pivo nominated Darin, crediting him with being a constant presence at weekday services and on Shabbat.
Q: What brought you to Congregation Beth Judea?
A: Our family became members of Congregation Beth Judea 25 years ago to join a conservative synagogue and begin our children’s Jewish education.
Q: In what capacities do you serve there?
A: I am on the board of directors, active in several committees and lead the Gan Shabbat service for young families on Saturday mornings.
Q: What do you do for a living?
A: I am the department head of materials for Metra, the commuter rail service.
Q: How do you balance your service to the congregation with the rest of your life?
A: Actually, it’s service to the congregation and the community that gives balance to my life.
Q: Why do you volunteer this much?
A: The Torah teaches us through mitzvot (commandments) to take care of one another and repair the world. By example, my parents have demonstrated that volunteering is a way to give back to the community and lead a fulfilling life. We all love our families and Beth Judea, my extended family, has enhanced my life and the lives of others immeasurably.
Q: How did it feel when you were told of the Lifetime Achievement Award?
A: It caught me totally by surprise when Rabbi Pivo told me I was to receive the award. Beth Judea is blessed to have so many that are committed to serving the needs of the congregation and the community. I thought, “why me?”
Q: What are you reading these days?
A: Extra Virginity: The Sublime and Scandalous World of Olive Oil.
Q: If you were Mayor of Long Grove for a day, what would you do?
A: I would declare a “Celebrate Long Grove” festival day. Invite all the Long Grove businesses, organizations and residents to come together for a Sunday event.
Q: Outside of the congregation, what is your proudest moment?
A: I can’t pick just one, so let me tell you about the most recent moment. Suzi and I became proud grandparents just a month ago. Alexa Reece and Jack Mason Darin were welcomed into the Jewish community with a baby naming and Brit Milah (traditional circumcision) at our home. “L’Dor V’Dor...from generation to generation.”
