SOMERS, N.Y. - A special tribute event was recently held at the Hebrew Congregation of Somers (HCS) Synagogue to unveil an outdoor podium built by local high school student Zachary Kessler as his Eagle Scout project for Scout Troop 37 in Hyde Park.
On June 14, Kessler explained his inspiration for the community space project to the HCS congregation.
“The focus of this outdoor platform project has been about providing accessibility, safety and insuring a feeling of belonging,” he said. “It’s about welcoming everyone, without exception, to our shared spiritual life.”
Kessler noted that the platform project includes a pair of plaques dedicated to two men whose legacies continue to have an impact on the community.
One plaque honors Larry Kaufman, who he described as “a man of principle and honor, strength and humility.”
Following his military service in the Air Force, Kaufman served as Commander of the local Jewish War Veterans Post 46.
Marilyn Kaufman, the wife of the late Larry Kaufman, later spoke lovingly of her husband’s dedication to his family, the many good works of the Somers Jewish War Veteran’s Post, and of his service as a speaker at Holocaust Remembrance events.
The second plaque honors Michael Leis, the father of HCS Rabbi Shoshana Leis, who was known as a man who had generously given his time and talent to the Regional Association of Recovery Court Professionals.
Kessler further described Leis as someone who “in taking to heart the value of Tikkun Olam - the Jewish phrase for repairing the world - sought to better the world of those around him.”
Rabbi Shoshana Leis and her family later spoke of her father’s dedication to his family and his remarkable career in the IT industry and his engineering contributions to the Apollo 11 space mission.
“It is important that these names be not only remembered but a part of this space so that we can follow the examples and keep their memories alive,” Kessler concluded. "May this space be a place of community, remembrance, joy and healing. May it always reflect the values that brought it into being - kindness, service and love.”
The Hebrew Congregation of Somers celebrates this Eagle Scout’s accomplishment and feels honored to inaugurate this inspirational space.
Article courtesy of The Hebrew Congregation of Somers.
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