The Men’s Clubs of Congregation B’nai Amoona and Kol Rinah recently honored their respective Man of the Year and Youth of the Year winners. All honorees have demonstrated a commitment to a primary objective of the Men’s club, the involvement of Jews in Jewish ritual practice.

Whether through professional achievement, communal involvement, or personal example, B’nai Amoona’s Paul Gallant has dedicated his time, resources and energy to strengthening the Jewish community and improving the lives of others. He has been involved in several other Jewish organizations including the Jewish Community Center and Jewish Student Union (JSU). Youth of the Year is one who has shown leadership and community involvement.

Omri Snir, a junior at Whitfield School, is the son of Osnat and Eli Snir. He has consistently been a leader among Jewish teens in the area; a voice for his fellow students and Jewish causes. When he was chapter gadol (president) for USY last year, he was the driving force behind the renovation of the youth lounge. Omri is currently serving as council gadol for BBYO St. Louis, responsible for overseeing Jewish programming and fundraising in St. Louis, and supporting regional conferences for the youth organization. He has been active with Student to Student, Camp Sabra and JSU.

Kol Rinah Men’s Club honored Gerard Burke for his many contributions and his strong, longstanding support. He is the captain of the Kol Rinah softball team and has been for many years and is the chief chef for many of the brotherhood functions. A retired teacher, Burke is currently the manager of Il Bel Lago restaurant in Creve Coeur.