[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 9]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 13249]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




  IN HONOR OF THE FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF TEMPLE BETH EL IN SALINAS, 
                               CALIFORNIA

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. SAM FARR

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 9, 2013

  Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the 
Fiftieth Anniversary of Temple Beth El in Salinas, California. On 
behalf of the entire House, I am privileged to extend the gratitude of 
Congress and the American people for the past and future service of the 
Beth El congregation.
   The First Hebrew Congregation and Community Center of Salinas was 
established in 1935. During World War II, and for a few years 
thereafter, Chaplain Hertz of Fort Ord served the congregation as its 
first religious leader. In 1949, Rabbi Seymour Stern joined the 
congregation as the synagogue's first Rabbi. Rabbi Abraham Haseklorn 
took over the rabbinic duties in 1953, and served until his retirement 
in 1973. He and his wife Alda made an invaluable contribution to the 
Salinas community. In 1963, the name of Temple Beth El was adopted for 
the new synagogue building designed by Temple member Jerome Kasavan, 
and is the home of the current congregation and Rabbi Marcy Delbick.
   For several years, Temple Beth El has served members throughout 
Salinas, Monterey, Prunedale, Gilroy and San Benito County. Their goal 
has been to provide both a spiritual and social center for members and 
guests. Its membership has spanned the entire spectrum of Jewish 
thought and tradition, along with diverse age levels and religious 
backgrounds. Reform, Conservative, Orthodox as well as unaffiliated 
members have added a unique variety to their gatherings. Throughout the 
years they have adapted to the changing needs of the times, while 
maintaining the respect for the traditions of their ancestors.
   The objective of Temple Beth El has been both religious and 
cultural, providing Sunday and Hebrew school for children as well as 
education programs for adults. At the start, the religious school began 
with ten students, though soon outgrew the available space and often 
spilled into congregants' homes. Today, Temple Beth El offers education 
programs for children throughout the school year. A vast array of adult 
education classes are provided, from an introduction to Judiasm to the 
Lunch and Learn program.
   Tikkun Olam, ``repairing the world'', is a major part of the Temple 
Beth El congregation community outreach. Members often prepare meals at 
the homeless shelter for the less fortunate, and are principle bell 
ringers for the Salvation Army's Red Kettle Drive on Christmas Eve. For 
over 50 years the yearly Kosher Luncheon is a much heralded community 
event where corned beef and pastrami sandwiches are served, providing 
Jewish outreach of the most delicious kind.
   Mr. Speaker, in closing I say Mazel Tov to the Temple Beth El 
congregation for their years of service devoted to the advancement of 
religious, cultural, and educational opportunities. I know I speak for 
the House in saluting their dedication, in making the community a 
better place and congratulating them on the celebration of their Golden 
Anniversary.

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