SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 678

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize Temple Beth Shalom on the occasion of its 10th anniversary; and

WHEREAS, Temple Beth Shalom can trace its roots to a group of 12 people that gathered to begin the process of creating a Reform congregation to be part of the Dell Jewish Community Campus family; and

WHEREAS, In 10 short years, that group of 12 people has grown to include more than 400 families that promote worship, spirituality, lifelong education, and social justice in an atmosphere of nurturing and support; known as a warm, welcoming, and inclusive community, Temple Beth Shalom has created a place where acts of loving kindness are performed for congregants, for the Austin community, and for the world at large; and

WHEREAS, Drawing on the desire to promote knowledge and understanding, one of the temple's first projects was the creation of a religious school; it has grown from six students in its first year to include more than 200 today; and

WHEREAS, Under the wise guidance and leadership of Rabbi Alan Freedman, Temple Beth Shalom has continued to grow and to play a vital role in the life of Austin's Jewish community; and

WHEREAS, The celebration of its 10th anniversary is an expression of the temple's enduring commitment to providing enlightenment and hope to its congregation; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 82nd Legislature, hereby extend best wishes to the congregation of Temple Beth Shalom on the joyous occasion of its 10th anniversary; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for the temple as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate.

Watson

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 31, 2011.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate