Monday, April 21, 2025
The East Meadow Beth El Jewish Center held its Testimonial Gala on March 30, bringing together the community to honor key members of the synagogue for their work and dedication to the temple. East Meadow Beth El recognized the leadership, challenges and triumphs of four former presidents, Carey Welt, David Wayne, Seth Meisel and Ira Minkoff. Each honoree was introduced in the shul with a 90-second introductory video explaining their time as president, and highlighting what they have done as a member of the temple.
Welt, Wayne and Meisel were all at the ceremony. Minkoff, who now lives in Florida, was unable to attend, but his contributions to East Meadow Beth El were sill recognized.
Carey Welt
A member of the East Meadow Jewish Center since 1984, Carey Welt has spent decades serving the congregation in a wide range of leadership roles. He joined the Board of Trustees in 1991 and continues to serve today as its chairman. Welt’s involvement spans from Men’s Club leadership — including terms as president — to overseeing building maintenance and security. He also served as co-president of EMBEJC from 2019 to 2022, guiding the congregation alongside his longtime friend, David Wayne. Outside the synagogue, Welt has dedicated over 56 years to the East Meadow Fire Department, where he’s held several top leadership positions and received numerous honors for his bravery. A U.S. Army Reserve veteran and former scout leader, Welt exemplifies community service and commitment.
David Wayne
David Wayne joined East Meadow Beth El Jewish Center in 2020 following the merger and brought with him a deep-rooted connection to Temple Beth-El of Bellmore, where he had been a member since 1989. An accomplished educator in mathematics, Wayne has always embraced teaching both in and out of the classroom — offering guidance in prayer, Torah reading, and Jewish ritual to fellow congregants. He regularly leads Shabbat and weekday services and is a consistent presence at minyanim, inspiring others through both his knowledge and his devotion. Wayne served as co-president of EMBEJC from 2022 to 2024, sharing leadership duties with Welt. His thoughtful, steady presence has enriched the spiritual life of the community.
Seth Meisel
Since joining the East Meadow Jewish Center in 1986, Seth Meisel has brought energy, creativity, and dedication to every role he’s taken on. He served as synagogue president from 2019 to 2020 and has long been involved in the Men’s Club. With his wife, Diane, Meisel has helped lead countless community events, including the popular annual Tu B’Shevat Seder and the development of the Stanley Bodson Garden — a peaceful space that also hosts Kabbalat Shabbat concerts. Meisel is a familiar voice at services, known for leading Musaf with his unique melodies and chanting Haftorot and Megillah during the High Holidays and Purim. His leadership style is principled yet warm, and EMBEJC proudly honors him for his lasting contributions to the community and synagogue life.
Ira Minkoff
Ira Minkoff’s lifelong connection to the synagogue began with his Bar Mitzvah at Temple Beth El and deepened as he later served as choir director and active congregant. Alongside his wife, Lisa, he rejoined Beth El in the early 2000s, and when the East Meadow Beth El Jewish Center was formed in 2020, Minkoff became its first co-president. Tasked with leading during the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic, he helped guide EMBEJC through virtual services, remote meetings, and new ways of maintaining community. Minkoff is known for his warmth, musicality, and sense of humor — frequently seen and heard harmonizing with cantors during the High Holidays. Though he and Lisa now live in Florida, Minkoff remains a sustaining member and strong supporter of the congregation.
