[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 88 (Monday, June 9, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E929]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING BARBARA AND JOEL RASCOFF

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ELIOT L. ENGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, June 9, 2014

  Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, Barbara and Joel Rascoff have been steadfast 
in their commitment to the New Rochelle community. The community is 
truly indebted to their selfless service and the legacy that they are 
continuing to build.
  As part of the Young Israel of New Rochelle Community (YINR), Barbara 
and Joel have chaired numerous dinners and dinner journals, and Joel 
has even helped document shul events by serving as a photographer. Both 
Barbara and Joel are known for their kind and giving nature, making 
newcomers feel exceedingly welcome in the New Rochelle Jewish 
community. Their efforts were crucial in bringing Rabbi Reuven Fink to 
YINR.
  Throughout their involvement with YINR, Joel served as both a member 
of the Board of Trustees and as Vice President of Fundraising, finding 
the time to help lead effort to raise crucial funds for YINR, whilst 
working as a respected nephrologist within the community.
  Barbara became deeply involved in shul fundraising herself, including 
as an integral part of the dedicated and passionate team that 
successfully worked to retire the debt from the mezzanine loan on 
YINR's new building. Barbara was also an important voice within the 
committee established to investigate the shul's expansion, and was an 
important member of the mechitza committee for the new sanctuary.
  Together Barbara and Joel have been highly active in a variety of 
community projects, such as the New Rochelle Meals on Wheels Program, 
where Barbara continues to serve as a Vice President. Barbara has also 
had a lifelong affiliation with AMIT, an organization that provides 
education and crucial social services to children in Israel. Barbara 
served for 22 years as a member of AMIT's board and as Chairwoman of 
the board of governors. AMIT works to positively impact the future of 
Israel, one child at a time. It is clear both Barbara and Joel have 
embodied this creed, working with drive and boundless energy to impact 
the lives of individuals both at home and abroad.
  Today, Barbara and Joel cherish their role as grandparents to their 
five beautiful grandchildren, and parents to their three sons and 
daughter-in-laws: Henry and Carina, Sammy and Lauren, and Matthew and 
Emily.
  Their passion to help others has built lasting impressions both in 
New Rochelle and in Israel. Their service is an exemplary legacy, and 
one that has brought our community closer together. Barbara and Joel 
are deserving recipients of the Distinguished Leadership Award at Young 
Israel of New Rochelle's 47th Annual Dinner.

                          ____________________