How many times do we see something and take for granted we know what we see? These Torah covers may serve as an example of which I am speaking. At a glance we see vivid colors circling the Torah and may think how lovely it looks and how bright the colors. But if you were to look closely you would see the words Midor Lador on the front of one of the mantles--From Generation to Generation. The seemingly abstract lines of color actually represent all of us--from past--to present--to future. Inside these vibrant mantles is a simple inscription in loving memory of a man who died too soon--Schmuel Mordecci--Steven Michael Berman. Who loved his family--his Synagogue and Torah--in no certain order. The inscription reads "May his soul be bound up in the bonds of eternal life". And how fitting that these mantles were given to the Temple by people in his generation--his daughters and parents. And who is to dispute that he may forever hear the words of Torah.

We have been fortunate to acquire another Torah--through the generosity of many and the initial impetus of the Chernack family who advised us of its availability. How sad that a Synagogue has closed--how fortunate that this precious Torah will be continued in use. Now no longer the adopted child but a full-fledged member of our Temple, it is time for it to have a mantle of its own, to join its siblings-- although the art committee has provided a white mantle in use for the holidays.

This year we are celebrating our Jubilee--50 years and many many many more to come. Under the leadership of Marty Seefer and his committee of excellence we all are feeling a sense of renewal--a reawakening as to where we came from and where we are going.

Jeanette Kuvin Oren--an internationally known artist of Judaic art who designed the other 2 mantles has created a cover for us to commemorate this special event and thus formally complete the adoption of our new Sefer Torah--A large Shofar calls to us all. Inside are words from Leviticus 25--Sound the shofar loud to proclaim the jubilee year. May each one of us always hear the sound of the shofar and let it remind us all of who we are and who we can be. Kane Yehee Ratzon-may this be god's will.