Feb 29th 2008, 00:00
One of the most important functions of a temple president (or president of any organization) is to develop future leaders. Our congregation grows in strength when we use the wisdom and experience of our past leaders, combined with new leaders and new voices to build a secure and long-lasting future. We speak often of the importance of ensuring that future generations of Jews have a home in North Orange County and how TBT should continue to be that home. Usually we are speaking of monetary donations to attain and keep that goal. However, no amount of money and no amount of new buildings will assure our future without competent leadership at all levels. Bricks and mortar will never be a substitute for dedicated and wise leadership.
Elections at Temple Beth Tikvah are held at our congregational meeting in May, and new terms for officers begin on June 1st. I ask that each congregant take a moment to consider how they might be willing to contribute some of their time to help serve Temple Beth Tikvah. That service can take many forms: as an officer on the Board of Directors, on any one of a number of committees, or volunteering some time to help out with the many projects and programs we have.
A nominating committee is needed to begin the election process. Our Constitution calls for a five-member nominating committee consisting of two Board members and three members from the congregation at large. If you are interested in being on the nominating committee, please contact the Temple office. All officers are elected for a one-year term and may not hold an office for more than three years. It is both your right and your responsibility to ensure that our Temple has effective leaders.
Fundraising for the Asa Center for Lifetime Jewish Learning continues, and we are getting close to our goal. The final contractor bids are due in the next couple of weeks and we may be as close as 75% to our goal. To those that doubted we could achieve our goal and would only contribute if we do reach it, I ask, please do not let your doubt become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Please pledge now and be the ones who push us over the top.
When we reach our fundraising goal and have a final economic and funding plan in place, we will then take the final step before giving this project the “green light.” Having previously received approval for Project Legacy we will place before the congregation our funding plan in order to receive your approval for a short-term construction loan. This project is the largest that our congregation has ever considered, and it has been a great learning experience for all involved. We have had some great successes and we have had setbacks. We have made some missteps and we have corrected our course when needed. This project will not begin without your approval and it is critical that everyone truly understands what we are trying to accomplish and how we will do it. Please ask any questions you have, and demand straight answers. Contact me, or contact Project Legacy co-chairs Henry Cohen or Lila Pesner. We want you to have all the facts, and we want you to come to your own, informed decision.
I thank all of you in advance for your involvement in our Temple and for your future leadership.
Shalom,