Temple Israel will hold a Summer Porch Party on on Thursday, August 15, at 6:30 pm. It will feature the music of Steve Gilbert and feature kosher light refreshments and a raffle. The cost is $5 per person; children under 12 can attend at no cost. Those attending are asked to help bring a donation to CHOW; a list of preferred household items and food is available from the synagogue office at 607-723-7461. Anyone interested in attending is asked to RSVP by Tuesday, August 13, by contacting the synagogue office. 

The event will also feature a raffle: the prize is a quilt started by the late Pam Lavker and finished by Maxine Rosenberg and a friend. Raffle tickets are $3 each or $10 for four tickets. One need not be present to win. To purchase raffle tickets before the event, contact the temple office. 

Gilbert is professor emeritus of psychology at SUNY Oneonta, a past president of Temple Israel, a frequent davener at services and an amateur performer known as Ukulele Steve by residents of several senior living facilities in the area. He has entertained many times at the Senior Friendship Club, as well as at several Temple Israel events. His varied repertoire includes Jewish music. 

“Jewish tradition says we should celebrate life by giving to worthy causes graciously,” said organizers of the event. “Temple Israel is embracing this idea with a Summer Porch Party. In the spirit of the event, we are asking attendees to help support CHOW with a tangible donation.”