Part I

Wow. After months of planning and anticipation, the big Congregation B’nai Moshe 100th anniversary celebration weekend is just around the corner.

Whether you have had a long affiliation with our synagogue or have recently joined, I sincerely hope and encourage you to participate. Even if you are someone who we typically see just two or three days a year, this will be a weekend you should not miss.

I hope to see our parking lot jammed and every seat taken at all of the events.

The speakers will be great. The food will be great. The music will be great. The camaraderie will be great. Don’t be conspicuous by your absence!

Part II

And, as the candles burn down on the B’nai Moshe 100 year birthday cake, it will also signal the conclusion of my two years of service as president of the congregation.

It has been an eventful period. The officers, board, and I have tried to steer our synagogue through these difficult economic times. I appreciate all the assistance they have given, along with that of our clergy, our executive director, the synagogue staff, the many unpaid volunteers who have given generously of their time, and the financial support of the membership.

I have particularly enjoyed communicating with you – both in person and through these monthly columns, which has been a rewarding challenge. For one thing, having the Bulletin posted on our website greatly expanded the number of hits when you Google my name. (I have even had feedback that my columns are being read outside of our membership.) It’s also been the first time I ever had a regular writing gig, and I wouldn’t mind continuing it in some fashion, now that I will have more time on my hands. (Alan Hitsky: Are you reading this?)

In the next few weeks I will take back my seat among the rest of the congregation. The reins will be turned over to a new president. I wish him all the best and will do what I can to support him so our history will continue strong into a second century. I know you will all do the same.