Beth Israel’s 25th Anniversary Gala was joyful and heartfelt

Event honoured the building and two special volunteers.

by Paula E. Kirman

(Edmonton) – On August 17, around 200 people attended Beth Israel Synagogue’s silver anniversary gala celebration. A 25^th anniversary is a special occasion – and for Beth Israel Synagogue, there were several reasons to celebrate this milestone.

First was the building’s quarter of a century in its current location in Wolf Willow. Beth Israel Synagogue was established in 1906 and took possession of the current building – the third location for the synagogue – on May 1, 2000.

The second reason for the gala was to honour two important volunteers who have been working away in the kitchen for the past couple of years to create elaborate and delicious Shabbos kiddushes and other occasions: Rhonda Eidelman and Philip Kirman (who also recently became the shul’s president and – as a full disclosure – is the brother of this writer).

After some mixing and mingling in the foyer, the evening got started off in the social hall where they enjoyed a meal of food provided by Catering by Ed, including stations with salmon, chicken stir fry, brisket, and a salad bar.

Following dinner, attendees headed into the main sanctuary to watch a commemorative video produced by Reel Mensch Studios in conjunction with the gala’s organizing committee. Then, gala co-chair Shane Asbell presented commemorative certificates to Philip and Rhonda, who both made heartfelt speeches. The evening’s entertainment was provided via Matt Gore (also known as “The Ginger Ninja”), who wowed the audience with his feats of magic and juggling.

Organizers say that the evening was a great success. Funds raised from the gala will go towards repairs on the building.

Paula Kirman is a Local Journalism Initiative Reporter.