Beth Shalom: Members of the new Clifton Park congregation,Beth Shalom, broke ground for their new synagogue on Oct. 3. Participating in the ceremony were, from left, the Rev. Albert H. Harding, assistant to the rector of St. George's Episcopal Church in that area; Alan Rosell,1974-75 congregation president; Howard Tarler; current president; Rabbi Robert Brownstein; the Rev. David C. Randles, rector of St. George's church; and Barry Forman, congregation vice president.  (Photo courtesy of the Schenectady Gazette)

CLIFTON PARK–Congregation Beth Shalom, established in 1974, will celebrate its 50th anniversary on Sunday, June 22, with a brunch reception at the Vista Restaurant Van Patten Golf Club, 942 Main St. in Clifton Park/ Jonesville. The brunch is set for 11 a.m.

According to Congregation President Linda Gellman, past and present congregants will share memories and history and relate how a group of Jewish families gathered together to break a Yom Kippur fast after attending services in synagogues elsewhere decided to form a congregation in Clifton Park, establishing a Jewish presence and identity. They wanted a place to serve the spiritual and social needs of the Jewish people in southern Saratoga County, she added. Many of the “founding families” are still active members of the congregation.

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Tribute will be paid to various  congregation rabbis, in particular to former congregation rabbi, Rabbi Beverly Magidson, current Rabbi Ami Monson, and new Rabbi Shara Siegfeld.

Bree at Beth Shalom, 518-371-0608 can provide cost information and reservations, which are required by Sunday, June 1.