[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 165 (Friday, November 19, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2468]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              TRIBUTE TO RABBI GERSHON AND SHARENE JOHNSON

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BRAD SHERMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 18, 1999

  Mr. SHERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Rabbi 
Gershon and Sharene Johnson in honor of their ``Silver Celebration'' at 
Temple Beth Haverim in Agoura Hills, California. This loving couple has 
spent 25 years as leaders in the Jewish community, both spiritually and 
educationally.
  Rabbi Gershon Johnson has served as Rabbi at Temple Beth Haverim 
since 1988. He is described by many as the temple's incomparable 
spiritual leader. His devotion and expertise as a Rabbi are evident in 
his presence as a chaplain for the Southern California Board of Rabbis. 
He has always been extremely interested in passing on his love for and 
knowledge of Judaism. The Elderhostel program at the Brandeis Bardin 
Institute has benefited from Rabbi Gershon's knowledge, and he is one 
of their most popular teachers. He also has been instrumental in 
introducing religion to beginners through his ``Introduction to 
Judaism'' class sponsored by the University of Judaism.
  Sharene Johnson is the wife of Rabbi Gershon, and has worked for the 
betterment of the Jewish community in many different ways. She has 
taught at several Jewish day schools throughout the United States, and 
has been involved in programming and consulting at Jewish resource 
centers as well. Her leadership has shone through as chairperson on the 
Principal's Council at the Bureau of Jewish Education. For the past 11 
years, she has passed on her wealth of experience and knowledge as 
Director of Education at Temple Ner Marev in Encino, California. The 
Jewish community also enjoys her teaching through adult workshops and 
her conducting of a women's Torah Study class at Temple Beth Haverim.
  In addition to their devotion to the temple, they have become a model 
of excellent family life and values. Rabbi Gershon teaches the ``Making 
Marriage Work'' program at the University of Judaism. Sharene leads 
several family workshops each year, and has spent much of her time 
working with families and children. They have been happily married for 
27 years and have raised 3 wonderful children--Gavi, Rachel, and Aliza.
  Mr. Speaker, distinguished colleagues, please join me in paying 
tribute to Rabbi Gershon and Sharene Johnson. They are both deserving 
of our utmost respect and praise.

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