“Aren’t you glad it’s over”?

More than one person has recently questioned my final weeks/days/hours of my presidency. The prevailing question has been “Aren’t you glad it’s over”? Actually, it's bittersweet. In some ways it will be a great relief to hand over the reigns to Fred Dumas and our very capable incoming board, yet I was very proud and honored to have been the President of Temple Beth El.

It has been my great honor to serve Temple Beth El and this community. While the challenges have been many, the rewards and accomplishments achieved by the efforts of many have been incredibly rewarding. I took this job seriously and with the intent of trying to make a difference. From a financial perspective, we have reduced our long-term debt and are well on our way to ensuring financial stability. With everyone's continued effort and support, we will be able to meet all of our past, current and future needs. This major goal, as outlined in my first New Year's speech, has been
successful. I am very proud of this accomplishment. These are results that could not have been achieved without the incredible devotion and work of Jonathan Howard and all those folks who supported his efforts.

Our endowment committee, now headed by Linda Seigel, will become more active in reaching our final goals. The-One-for-all Ball, a dream just two years ago, has become a reality and tremendous success in raising needed dollars for all three institutions, but more importantly for the good will and camaraderie created within the Park. While I very much do not want to be only remembered as the president who helped create this fundraiser, I am excited about what transpired and hope that the community will look at what good we accomplished, not focusing on inevitable scheduling conflicts or problems, rather on all the good which has been the byproduct of this mega-fundraiser. Please continue to support this event.

With the able help of Mitch Rifkin, Bob Lidz and his membership committee, we have overhauled and revisited our membership policies, recruitment, retention and connection to our members. I know this will enable everyone to feel more a part of Temple Beth El. Also, thanks to Rick Glaser and his leadership committee. The first class of the Robyn Farber Leadership Institute is set and will graduate next year. Truly, I am indebted to him for his hard work and perseverance. This will pay incredible dividends for future leadership at Temple Beth El.

On a personal note, I must again thank Mitch Rifkin and David Crane for always being there for personal advice, support and guidance with the everyday frustrations and problems of this job. Without them, I could not have done it. Norm Levin was my inspiration and was there to do everything I needed or wanted. My whole executive board and board of directors stepped up to help and I thank them so much. Although Ginny Rosenberg has decided to leave the board, her influence will be felt for years to come. She was extremely dedicated to her position of Vice President of Education. She will be missed. It has also been a true pleasure working with the professional staff and I thank them for their input and dedication. Most importantly, I thank Sherri, Adam, Harrison and Reid for allowing me the time and freedom to give to Temple Beth El and the community. This does not come without much personal sacrifice and I look forward to much more time with them.

Finally, perhaps one of the most important and significant changes for Temple Beth El is the installation of Rabbi Judy Schindler as senior rabbi. As I sat on the bimah at her installation, I felt such pride and excitement for Judy, as well as all of us knowing we have a great person to lead us for many years to come. So, while there is much still to be done, as the Allstate slogan goes, you are in good hands with Fred. I will always be there to help, support and lend my thoughts, if and when needed. While these last two years have been frustrating at times, it has been one of the most gratifying experiences of my life. Thank you.

Larry Farber, President