Beth El Temple in West Hartford recently honored more than 50 congregants who were recognized with national and local awards in 2013. “We have such passionate and devoted congregants in the Beth El community who give so much of their time to make a difference,” said Rabbi Jim Rosen. “We are honored and humbled to be recognized locally and nationally, and it speaks to the commitment of the people who make Beth El such a special place.” Among the 50 award winners honored were; (seated) Sidra and Marvin Sperling (l to r, front row) Norma Jean Sternschein, Fran Weinberger, Kristie Mazzoni, Sandra Brook, Roberta Smith, Anita Levy, Rabbi Ilana Garber, Lois Koteen; (l to r, back row) Marty Melnick, Tom Falik, David Diamond, Joe Springut, Jacob Kovel, and Herb Hoffman.