TEEN ANGEL: When the new Temple Ahavat Achim in Gloucester opens, it will have a special space for teens to congregate, thanks to Jacob Cline.
The 17-year-old from Hamilton is planning the space with the help of some other teens and artists in the community. He hopes it will become a hub of activity and a place for Jewish teens to just spend time together.
Construction of the temple, on the same site where the former temple was destroyed by fire in December 2007, is scheduled for completion in late spring.
Cline was the winner of the 2010 Derek M. Sheckman Teen Leadership Award, given annually by the Jewish Federation of the North Shore to a student in grade 10 or 11 who demonstrates a commitment to his or her Jewish community,
works to improve the quality of life for others, and is a leader and role model to peers.
works to improve the quality of life for others, and is a leader and role model to peers.
Nominated teens had to complete an application, write an essay, and propose a service project that could be implemented with a stipend that is part of the award.
“We are delighted to see what teens are capable of doing in our community and [are] pleased to have the opportunity to recognize their accomplishments,’’ saidIna Lee-Block, a member of the award committee.
“This is a very exciting time for my congregation, and I’m fortunate to have the opportunity to have a role in this important moment in our history,’’ Cline said. “Receiving the Sheckman Award was one of the most rewarding moments of my life.’’
The award is named for Derek Sheckman of Swampscott, who died of cancer in 1998 at age 18. He was one of the first recipients of the teen leadership award.
For more information. visit www.jfns.org.
DEDICATED TO WALK: Every September for 22 years, Susan Curry of Groveland has walked 26.2 miles in the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk to raise money for cancer care and research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
Last year, Curry raised $2,200, which more than qualified her to be named a Pacesetter at the Extra Mile Brunch in Boston last Sunday.
Pacesetters must raise at least $1,000 and walk the marathon route.
“There are small moments that keep you going during the walk, but reaching the finish is the most exciting part,’’ said Curry, 57. “You are so tired and sore and your legs are throbbing, but you are also filled with the greatest feeling.’’
Curry, who plans to participate again this year, walks in memory of her mother, who died in 1981 of breast cancer, and in honor of her husband, Richard, who last year underwent treatment for throat cancer.
“It was a difficult year, but he is doing well now,’’ said Curry.
This year’s Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk is Sept. 18. To register or support a walker,
WHO’S WHAT WHERE: Mary Williamson of Salisbury has been named to the newly created position of director of community engagement for the Essex County Greenbelt Association. She is responsible for directing marketing and communications; managing the public’s use of the association’s more than 250 protected properties; and promoting activities and initiatives that protect open space for recreation, agriculture, and scenic views. . . . Lori Laviolette has joined the Jewish Community Center of the North Shore in Marblehead as general manager. She is in charge of membership services and health and wellness programs. Laviolette has degrees in health education, exercise science, and psychology. She has owned and operated the North Shore Athletic Club in Beverly and has managed several fitness centers for Healthworks. . . . Fran Gerrior of Beverly has been promoted to lead coordinator of the community resources department of resident life at Brooksby Village, a retirement community in Peabody. She has worked there for nine years facilitating events and clubs.