From Jocelyn Sherman Avidan

Subject: Reflections on Joann
Sent: May 24, 2011 5:53 PM

Dear Rabbi Cohen, We are stunned and so terribly saddened by the heartbreaking and tragic news of Joanna's death. We are currently in Israel and won't be able to join the community in celebrating her life and mourning her loss tomorrow, but we wanted to share a few thoughts. We first got to know Joanna while working on the retreat 2 years ago. Joanna was always there to help, offering things that we didn't even know we needed. Even when the office was crowded with constituents needing assistance while the phones rang and she was trying to answer emails in a timely manner, she was on top of everything and did it all with a smile. That event, along with countless others, could most certainly not have happened without Joanna's dedication. Joanna would call us from time to time to help with the shul's runs to Costco to pick up supplies. Everything was always perfectly coordinated, and if ever there was a question, we would just call Joanna and she had an answer- every single time. Our community has lost a dedicated employee and trusted friend. Her kind heart, warm spirit and beautiful smile shined through in everything she did. She will be missed. Sincerely, Jocelyn and Ron Avidan