Temple Beth Israel of Longboat Key has created the Gala Awards — to be held annually — to recognize extraordinary contributions by its members.

“The temple has traditionally benefited from the generosity and tireless efforts of dedicated members; such dedication should be encouraged, and such members deserve recognition,” said temple Vice President Dr. David Solomon “It just makes sense to associate these awards with the annual gala, because it is the year’s most elegant temple event.”

The first Gala Award for extraordinary service will be presented to what the temple calls its “Quintessential Quartet” — four members without whom the life of the congregation would be hard to imagine. They are Ruth Engman, Maye Lavinson, Joe Miller and Richard Olin. The Rising Star award, given to a member who has belonged to the temple for five years or less, goes to Sandie Cutler-Cohen. Among many other contributions, she was in charge of the Beth Israel Women’s recent cookbook, “The Secret Ingredient.”

“Ultimately, it is the members who truly make a congregation,” said Rabbi Jonathan Katz. “I am grateful to have the opportunity to honor those who have done so much to make Beth Israel such a special place.”
The first Gala Awards will be presented at the 2010 Gala at 6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 10, at Michael’s On East.
Tickets are $190 per person; patrons are $500 per person and up. Call the temple office at 383-3428 for more information.

Contact Molly Schechter at aerobicgrandma@verizon.net.
 

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