Provided/ From left, Luna Vazquez, Sadie Kent, Breanna Bell, Rabbi Michael L. Feshbach, Cantor Rhoda J. Harrison, Beth Israel President Linda Karp, Teresa McGaney-Guy, Shadley D. Trezil, Samantha Reed, Sanai Graham.
NORTHFIELD – The community gathered at Beth Israel synagogue Jan. 12 to honor the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a special service, award presentation and reception.
Rabbi Michael L. Feshbach and Cantor Rhoda J. Harrison led a Shabbat service that interspersed traditional Jewish liturgy with readings about civil rights, including Dr. King’s iconic “I have a dream” speech. The keynote address was given by Teresa McGaney-Guy, principal of North Main Street School. She spoke about the value of education and the characteristics of leadership that help promote positive change in our world.
Kaleem Shabazz, Atlantic City councilman, faith leader and president of the Atlantic City NAACP, joined Rabbi Feshbach to present the Beth Israel/NAACP Spirit of MLK award to five area high school students. The students submitted essays on what they would change in the community, nation or world in the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As part of the service, the students had an opportunity to read their essays.
The 2024 Beth Israel/NAACP Spirit of MLK Award winners are, from left, Luna Vazquez, Sadie Kent, Breanna Bell, Shadley D. Trezil, Sanai Graham, Samantha Reed
This year’s winners are:
- Shadley D. Trezil, Atlantic City High School
- Breanna Bell, Atlantic County Institute of Technology
- Luna Vazquez, Cedar Creek High School
- Samantha Reed, Egg Harbor Township High School
- Sadie Kent, Mainland Regional High School
- Sanai Graham, Pleasantville High School
Learn more at 609-641-3600 or email bethisrael@cbinorthfield.org.
Councilman Kaleem Shabazz and Rabbi Michael L. Feshbach present the 2024 Beth Israel/NAACP Spirit of MLK awards.
