President’s Message (April 2015)

Dear Temple Sinai Members,

As I write this there is still snow on the ground, but the days are warmer and longer, so hopefully we will have spring (not just on the calendar) when you read this bulletin. In addition to the challenges this winter gave us for our driveway and parking lot, we have also had some freezing in the gutters which resulted in leaks in the social hall and Religious school. The new roof is fine, but we will have to take care of the damages caused by the leaks. I am sure many of you have had problems with your homes due to this sketch of bad weather and our Temple building has suffered as well.

Last month I mentioned that we are looking to revise our bulletin so that it can be mailed to all members. Many thanks to those who participated in the focus group and especially to Barbara Lederer, who was the facilitator. Please feel free to email me new message24 with your comments—what you read or don’t read, like or don’t in our current format.

The board is in the process of developing the budget for the next fiscal year. Joyce helps us in this process by calling other synagogues so that we can make sure that we are in line with our dues, fees, and tuition. She found that many congregations have lost a significant percentage of their members, so it is positive news to share with you that the membership at Temple Sinai has remained fairly even for the last several years. The annual meeting is scheduled for Sunday, May 17, when the budget and report of the nominating committee will be reviewed as well as other agenda items. You will receive information either by email or snail mail at least 30 days before the meeting.

I think we can all agree that ensuring the future of Judaism is a priority for all of us. There are several Bar/Bat Mitzvahs this spring and I would encourage you to attend one or more of them. Not only will this let our young people know how much we appreciate their efforts and commitment to Judaism, but it will also warn your hearts to see the depth of knowledge and effort these 13-year-olds possess. In addition, there are special Friday night services in May—confirmation and a service led by our youth group. Both of these services have been quite meaningful in the past and I am sure this year will not be an exception.

With warmest wishes for a wonderful Passover to you and your families,

B’Shalom.

Carol Benjamin, President