This is my seventeenth and final “President’s Message.” It’s also been the most difficult to write, as I tried to fit a variety of thoughts and opinions into my usual 400-word format. Also, dealing with a number of issues – some that are winding down, others that will pass to the new leadership – didn’t leave much time to think in terms of a “farewell.”
The Nominating Committee has produced an outstanding successor. I have the great honor to “introduce” you to an exceptional person who needs no introduction: Joyce Forgoston Bogrow, the next President of Temple Kehillat Chaim. When I hand her the ceremonial gavel on May 2, I’ll be the first outgoing president since 1996 to say, “Congratulations, Madam President!” Joyce, who, along with her husband, Bernie, is a veteran congregant, possesses considerable business and leadership experience. I thank the congregation in advance for the support I know all will give Joyce and the new Board.
When I became president in October 2008, the Kehillah (as well as much of our country) was in a financial free-fall. We continued with aggressive cost-saving measures, many of which had been implemented under my predecessor. Clergy, staff, and teachers made significant sacrifices. We deployed cost-effective technologies to improve membership services and delivery of communications. Our membership numbers gradually stabilized. Many congregants responded to our appeals with great generosity. All these things allowed us to eliminate a significant operating deficit, and we expect to conclude the 2009 / 10 fiscal year this June 30 with a balanced budget and the beginnings of a reserve for dealing with inevitable infrastructure issues that lie ahead. While we must remain vigilant, we’ve bounced off of the bottom.
I can’t stress enough the fact that this progress could not have been made without the contributions of the legions of awesome people I’ve had the honor to work with. Our devoted clergy and wonderful staff, our outstanding officers and other Board members, our committed committee chairs and members, and all of our other steadfast volunteers are the people that are truly responsible for us being where we are. I am grateful to every one of these fine people.
Being the president is alternately stressful and joyful. There have been challenges, but also many good moments. I thank the congregation for the honor you bestowed on me, and I look forward to continuing to work for the betterment of TKC.
B’Shalom!
Tim Weiss
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