The Jewish Center, LLC Staff
Maria Cruz, Facility Manager
Maria was born in the Dominican Republic and grew up in New York City. She moved to Connecticut in 2002 with her husband and three daughters. Maria started at B'nai Israel in 2003 as a custodian and is now proud to be the Facility Manager. She manages and coordinates building and grounds maintenance, installations and refurbishments, maintains equipment and supplies, and manages our custodial staff and external contractors.
Patti Berkowitz, LLC President
Patti served as First VP and President of B'nai Israel (2023-2025) and LLC secretary and has now stepped up as LLC President.
B'nai Israel has been part of her family's life for over 22 years.
Her two boys attended BIRS and had their B'nai Mitzvah and were confirmed under Rabbi Polokoff's leadership. Patti is a Special Education teacher and she and her husband Mark enjoy traveling and spending time with friends and family.
Julio Nazario, Custodian
Julio was born in Puerto Rico and grew up in New York City. He moved to Heritage Village in Southbury to be closer to his son and grandchildren. Retired after 30 years delivering home heating oil around the tri-state area and married for 50 years, Julio is the father of two and grandfather of five. He started working at B'nai Israel in 2023 and has proven himself to be a very dedicated employee and one of the nicest and most personable people in our B'nai Israel family, always eager and ready to help anyone at any time.
Julio quotes,
"I am inspired by the amazing, talented, appreciative people at B'nai Israel."
Mark Grickis, Custodian
Mark, 57, is a personable and friendly employee, born in the Waterbury area to Irish, Italian parents. He is diversified in his working career having skills in Landscaping, Asphalt Construction, Roofing and Manufacturing. Mark started working at B'nai Israel in March, 2024 and wishes to express gratitude, thanking the members for the opportunity to be a part of the community, allowing him to contribute to the Synagogue's mission.
Office Hours
Tuesday - 8:30am-1:30pm
Wednesday - 8:30am-1:30pm
Thursday - 8:30am-1:30pm
Friday - 1:00pm-5:00pm
Sunday - 8:30am-12:30pm
Feel free to drop in at 444 Main Street North in Southbury
or call 203.267.3394 to make an appointment.
We look forward to seeing you.
Shalom. A Day of Peace.