North Miami Beach Eruv
The North Miami Beach eruv has been meticulously maintained under the dedicated management of Rabbi Selmar since 1977. Recently, it underwent a comprehensive upgrade, utilizing top-quality materials and construction. This overhaul was led by Rabbi Mordechai Paretzky, one of the foremost eruv builders in the United States, and subsequently reviewed by Rabbi Shlomo Francis, a renowned expert and posek in eruvin.
This recent upgrade is significant not only for North Miami, which now boasts a top-tier eruv in the region, but also for communities across Florida. In this hurricane-prone state, traditional wooden utility poles are often replaced with hurricane-resistant concrete poles, which are unsuitable for standard eruv construction methods. To address this challenge, local eruv builders developed the “string lechi,” a thin nylon string that replaces plastic conduits. The string lechi hangs from utility wires rather than attaching directly to the poles, effectively bypassing the limitations of concrete structures.
However, while easy to install, the string lechi is also prone to detachment or subtle misalignments, such as being deflected by a twig, leading to psulim that can be difficult to detect. With the advanced techniques introduced during this upgrade, North Miami has moved beyond reliance on string lechis, setting a new standard for reliability and durability. It is hoped that other communities in Florida and beyond will follow North Miami’s example, adopting these state-of-the-art alternatives for stronger and more dependable eruvin.
North Miami Beach
Don’t be misled by the name “North Miami Beach”—this neighborhood is worlds apart from the high-rise condos and glitzy resorts of Miami Beach proper. Apart from the warm weather, North Miami Beach is a quintessential small-town frum community, with simple ranch-style houses. The only thing that needs getting used to, is parking on the grass. You definitely won’t get the “Hashem doesn’t want me to be here” feeling you may get in other areas in Florida.
Interestingly, NE 10th Avenue has become the hub of local shuls. For a taste of old-time North Miami Beach, Congregation Shaarei Tefilla at 10th and 172nd is the place to go. If you’re seeking an authentic in-town chasidish shtiebel, you’ll find it right next door at Khal Chasidim. You will likely meet some off-duty Rebbe’s davening there during the winter months. Prefer a bustling Lakewood kollel? NMB Kollel is just three short blocks away, at 10th and 175th.
