[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 86 (Wednesday, May 20, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E474]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING RAMAT SHALOM BETH ISRAEL ON ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. DEBBIE WASSERMAN SCHULTZ

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 20, 2026

  Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Ramat Shalom 
Beth Israel (RSBI) on its 50th anniversary.
  Founded in Plantation, Florida in 1976 in what began as a small 
Jewish discussion group meeting in members' homes, Ramat Shalom, now 
known as Ramat Shalom Beth Israel, has evolved into a prominent and 
respected synagogue that provides a place of inclusivity and a sense of 
belonging.
  Under the leadership of Rabbi Andrew Jacobs, and his wife Rabbi 
Cheryl Jacobs, RSBI is an LGBTQ Safe Zone and weaves learning 
seamlessly into worship and holiday celebrations, deepening both 
understanding and spiritual experience.
  The members of RSBI take the responsibility of Tikkun Olam, or 
healing the world, to heart. Through Ramat Cares, they volunteer to 
feed the hungry, house the homeless, shelter abused animals, clean our 
beaches and bring smiles to children who have lost everything. They are 
a thoughtful and compassionate group who perform various good deeds 
throughout the community--from hand-knitting healing shawls, baby 
blankets, and bonnets to baking challahs and cooking chicken soup for 
those who need some healing.
  Rabbi Andrew's leadership extends well beyond the synagogue's walls. 
He is deeply involved in interfaith and community partnerships 
throughout South Florida, building relationships rooted in mutual 
respect, shared values, and civic responsibility. Rabbi Andrew has 
repeatedly stood alongside me and our interfaith community whenever and 
wherever we have gathered to speak out against the scourges of racism, 
bigotry, and antisemitism.
  As Ramat Shalom celebrates this Jubilee year, I join in celebrating 
their commitment to compassion, inclusivity, and lifelong Jewish 
learning.
  On behalf of my constituents, I congratulate the ``Rabbis Jacobs'' 
and am proud to call them my dear friends. Mazel Tov to the entire 
congregation of Ramat Shalom Beth Israel on 50 years of service and 
community leadership. May the next 50 years continue to be filled with 
the Jewish values of Tikkun Olam and L'dor V'dor, lighting the way for 
future generations.

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