Susan and Alan Apter
In recognition of their volunteer leadership of Tikvat Israel’s spiritual and physical presence, Susan and Alan Apter will be honored as the 5778 Kallat Bereshit and Chattan Torah, respectively, during Simchat Torah on Friday, Oct. 13, at the synagogue.
Their recognition on the holiday includes special aliyot during the Torah service as well as a luncheon in their honor following services in the social hall. (Donations in honor of the Apters to support the Kiddush lunch may be sent to the synagogue office.)
Literally the “the bride of the beginning” and “groom of the Torah,” the Kallat Bereshit and Chattan Torah honors are given each year to two deserving Tikvat Israel congregants or staff members who have made significant contributions to the synagogue’s spiritual, educational and/or cultural life.
In notifying the Apters of their deserved recognition, Executive Director Sam Freedenberg said: “Our congregants, volunteer leaders, clergy and staff join to wish you a hearty mazel tov and express our appreciation to you for all of your outstanding and enduring contributions to the life of our synagogue over many years.”
Susan, a native Philadelphian and a graduate of Akiba Hebrew Academy, and Alan, born and raised in West Hartford, Conn., spent 15 years in central Connecticut prior to moving to Rockville in 2000 for Alan’s job. They are the proud parents of Melissa, 28, who is married to Avi Bardack, and Ross, 23.
Professionally, Alan is a senior programmer/analyst with GEICO Insurance. Susan is a 34-year federal government employee in the acquisition field, now with the National Institutes of Health.
Alan’s volunteer portfolio includes the following: Current TI board member, member of the board’s Capital Improvement Committee and chair of lobby renovation project; Sukkah construction and takedown over the past seven years; organized shul cleanups for kitchen, storage areas and outside painting; and shomer during High Holidays.
Susan’s volunteer record includes the following: Chair, Religious Practices Committee; assigner for weekly haftarot for Shabbat and festivals; chair, Torah Fund for Women’s Network; member and past co-chair, Adult Education Committee; former member, TI Board of Directors; and former member of TI Education Committee.
