[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 42 (Thursday, April 10, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E632]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   CONGRATULATIONS TO TEMPLE BETH EL

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                         HON. WILLIAM M. THOMAS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 10, 1997

  Mr. THOMAS. Mr. Speaker, today, we celebrate a milestone in the 
history of Bakersfield, CA, one that is of great importance.
  The Temple Beth El has been with us now for 50 years and with each 
passing decade its strength and enduring qualities have grown. It is 
fitting that with this anniversary we pause and reflect upon the many 
miles traveled and obstacles overcome. We look back and remember that 
the founding of Beth El coincided with the end of one of the saddest 
times in human history--World War II. Indeed, some of the veterans of 
that war were founding members of Beth El. I wonder if those founding 
families ever imagined that their small temple in Bakersfield would 
someday blossom into the revered institution Beth El is today.
  Temple Beth El has been ecumenical in reaching out to churches in the 
area, thereby strengthening the intangible ties that bind the fabric of 
Bakersfield. This task, while no small deed, has opened eyes and minds 
that were once closed and diluted the misunderstanding that flows 
through some, making Bakersfield shine more as a city.
  The contributions of Beth El to the community are numerous--the 
charities, the food drives, the commitment. One goal Beth El members 
have continually pursued is to make life better for others. This 
congregation has achieved that goal in many ways.
  They have given us hope for a better, fairer, safer, more tolerant, 
and caring would. As we approach the end of the century and look 
forward to the next, the current generations of members of Beth El are 
sure to pave the road to the future by continuing their efforts to make 
Bakersfield a better community. Again, I congratulate the congregation 
and look forward to Temple Beth El's many anniversaries in years to 
come.

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