(Courtesy of CIS) On June 16, Congregation Israel of Springfield held its 46th Gala Tribute Dinner honoring seven distinguished community leaders. This year’s event was particularly special as community members were able to celebrate together in-person and reconnect with one another in the spacious chandeliered tent at Crystal Plaza in Livingston. The evening’s program included a special video that showcased the community’s continued growth amidst the pandemic, introducing new families who had recently moved in and welcoming the newest shul members who were born during the last year.

The dinner paid tribute to guests of honor Diane Osen Covkin and Rick Covkin, recipients of the Rabbi Israel E. Turner Memorial Award, in recognition of their service to Congregation Israel. Rick serves as chair of the religious committee and has worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic to create a safe environment for the congregation to daven. Diane devotes her writing talents to shul communications and publications including serving as editor of the shul’s Torah Journal “Rei’ach HaSadeh.”

The evening also honored Marilyn Bielory (Eishet Chayil Award recipient), Debbie and Avi Shteingart (Young Leadership Award recipients), Adam Greiss (Edward Konigsberg Memorial Award recipient) and Eva Gidalowitz (Joseph Tammam Memorial Youth Community Service Scholarship Award recipient).

Congregation Israel of Springfield, under the dynamic leadership of Rabbi Chaim Marcus, provides a multitude of opportunities for community members to engage in Torah learning, community service and family-friendly activities. Congregation Israel continues to be a warm and inviting synagogue for members of all ages.