Plans are being finalized for a wonderful evening gala that will be hosted by Beth Shalom on April 19 at the Fantasyland Hotel to pay tribute to the congregation’s Past President Jeff Rubin. Please note that the deadline is March 27 so if you haven’t yet sent in your rsvp reply cards, you should do so right away. And if you don’t have a reply card or if you didn’t receive an invitation, you can still attend by calling the Beth Shalom office to register at 780-488-6333 ex 301.
The gala is sure to be an enjoyable event. The tribute speech will be delivered by one of Jeff’s childhood friends – Justice Eric Macklin. Jeff and Eric have known one another for over 55 years as they grew up as neighbours in the Glenora area and have remained close friends ever since. There is no doubt that Justice Macklin will use his quick wit and intelligent humour to regale clever anecdotes about Jeff during his formative years, right up to present day.
Another highlight of the event will be the keynote address by former Edmonton Eskimo legend and CFL hall-of-famer Henry ‘Gizmo’ Williams. Jeff is a lifelong fan and Gizmo is not only an exceptionally gifted athlete, but he is highly regarded as a guest speaker for his sincerity, and humility, as well as his enthusiasm, and comedic style.
One of Jeff’s goals when he took over the presidency of the Beth Shalom board in 2010 was to further facilitate a warm and welcoming ambience to the congregation. He met this objective and also accomplished several other goals. He was instrumental in the hiring of current Beth Shalom Rabbi Kliel Rose. Rabbi Rose, his wife Dorit, and his entire family have been a wonderful addition to our Jewish community.
Jeff was also instrumental in the sale of Beth Shalom’s excess land for $2.4 million dollars. This sale will ensure that the Synagogue has sufficient funds into the future. Jeff played an important role in negotiating the sale of the land to Beit Horim/Our Parents’ Home. This sale of land was approved by over 95% of the congregational membership at an extraordinary special meeting of the membership.
“We are happy to have this opportunity to honour Jeff Rubin,” said former Beth Shalom Congregation President Howie Sniderman. “His hard work and dedicated efforts on behalf of the Beth Shalom Synagogue have been exemplary and we all enjoyed the warmth and personality that Jeff brought to the bimah. He has made a real difference to our congregation that we will benefit from, for years to come.”
The Beth Shalom will pay homage to Jeff’s dedicated service as well as his enthusiasm and whimsical sense of humour with what is sure to be an enjoyable evening. Send in your RSVP today and don’t miss this special event.
