On March 9th I had the honor and privilege of presenting this year’s Aaron J Tofield Lifetime Achievement Award to Marty Solway.  A most deserving recipient. Marty has been, Men’s Club  President for some time now.  In fact, Marty and his wife Sharon have been active members of TBE since joining shortly after arriving in Southern California in 1980.  Beside his work with the Men’s Club, Marty has held a number of positions on the Temple Board of Directors over the years.  He’s given his time and energy, showing a steadfast commitment to our congregation.  After being presented the award, Marty shared a few thoughts and comments with us.  It was clear his passion and love for Temple Beth Emet remains strong, as well as his health.  He pledged to continue giving of himself, adding to his TBE resume.  Marty also recognized all the great folks before him who have mentored and befriended him in the past, making TBE a special place.  So, if you run into Marty, please congratulate him for helping Temple Beth Emet live on.

A tenet of Judaism is to choose life, and one way for us to express that is through chesed - acts of loving kindness.  By definition, chesed very often has nothing to do with money, it’s really a choice for action.  But sometimes chesed does involve money, such as the Temple’s Chesed Fund.  TBE’s Chesed Fund is there so our congregation can provide assistance to members of our community in critical need of a hand, be it for food, shelter, or medical attention.  Periodically members make donations earmarked for the chesed fund; And, on occasion we’ll gently make it known to the congregation that the chesed fund is in need of some loving kindness itself.  However, it’s come to my attention that now is one of those crucial times when more than a gentle reminder is needed.  Not only is chesed selfless and necessary, but an act of compassion that is personally very heart  warming.

Of course, we’re hopeful you’ll continue contributing to the Ambulance for Israel     Campaign, through American Friends of Mogen David Adom, and other donations     directly to TBE.  These funds constitute tzedakah.  Any Rabbi will tell you Jews are    obligated to give tzedakah.  In fulfilling this gesture, we’re optimistic that your generosity will keep coming our way.

Shalom & Am Yisrael Chai

Lou