The community is invited to join Temple Shir Shalom of Oviedo to say thank you to cantorial leader Beth Schafer for the years of service, guidance, music and friendship that she has brought to this community for the past 20 years. A luncheon, to be catered by Dexters, will be held at the Jewish Academy of Orlando, at 851 N. Maitland Ave., Maitland, on Sunday, May 31, 2015, from 11:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.

The cost for the luncheon is $25 per adult, $18 per child ages 12 and under. Seating is limited. Your paid reservation is your RSVP. Deadline for reservations is Monday, May 18.

Reservations are online only at http://www.templeshirshalom.org/index.php/schafer-thank-you

For those unable to attend but who would still like to say thank you and honor Beth, there are various Sponsor and Contribution opportunities listed on the same website.

Schafer attended the University of Miami and received a Bachelor of Music in music theory and composition. She moved to Central Florida and took a position as a course director at Full Sail Center for the Recording Arts. Schafer found that she was drawn to her Jewish roots, and has since held several positions at respected Jewish institutions in the Metro Orlando area, including cantorial soloist at the Congregation of Reform Judaism, and teacher and Shabbat leader at the Jewish Academy of Orlando.

Schafer has also toured the U.S. as one of the leading Reform Jewish musicians, giving concerts and often acting as Artist in Residence. A highlight for Schafer has been contributing to the Union of Reform Judaism Biennial conventions, as a performer and as a producer, since 1999. The URJ Biennials host participants from hundreds of Reform Congregations from all over the U.S. and Canada. For the past 13 years, Schafer has been the cantorial leader of Temple Shir Shalom of Oviedo.

Schafer recently announced that she will be assuming the Bunzl Family Cantorial Chair of Temple Sinai in Atlanta, effective July 1.