Distinguished Service Award

Milton Smirnoff, 1997

George G. Posener, 1995

Milton Smirnoff

Milton Smirnoff served as President of Congregation Beth El-Keser Israel from 1993-1995. He has provided countless hours of quiet service and public leadership to the Congregation, particularly in its administrative functions. Milt has worked tirelessly for a unified membership and a sound financial basis. As a businessperson and civic leader, Milton has transcended ethnic, religious and racial boundaries by viewing each person as an equal, sharing the same rights and responsibilities. Milton has been outspoken on matters of principle and fair procedure, seeking to build consensus based on shared values and ideas. With the support of Beatrice Smirnoff, his wife, Milton has given of himself without expectation of reward or thanks. Milton is the second recipient of the Congregation’s Distinguished Service Award. He was honored at a Testimonial Dinner by the Congregation on Sunday 8 June 1997. The Testimonial Committee was chaired by Lester Morgolis and directed by Todd Strauss. Bishop William Philpot offered an invocation at the dinner. A Testimonial Book was prepared and distributed to the Congregation.

George G. Posener

George G. Posner was the first recipient of the Congregation’s Distinguished Service Award. George served as the Chairperson of BEKI’s House & Maintenance Committee and has overseen major repairs of the building along with many major and minor areas of caring for our building. In addition, George has provided gifts for all of the children of BEKI’s Religious School at Graduation and Promotion exercises for many years. Known for his intelligence, frugality and warm personality, George was honored for his lifetime volunteer contribution to the Congregation. George G. Posener was honored at a Testimonial Dinner on the evening of Sunday 29 October 1995 at Beth El-Keser Israel. The Dinner was hosted by Stephen Wizner.