President’s Message – Len Weiselberg

The journey continues…

Here are some of my recent observations at TBY.

Dor L’dor-generation to generation: When we found out our great nephew, Seth (19 months old), was attending a Tot Shabbat, Elissa and I jumped at the idea of attending this service (my first Tot Shabbat). Wow! This was one of the coolest services I ever attended. Over a dozen little ones attended this special service. The Cantor and Rabbi really connected with the kids. Prayers and songs were belted out by everyone. Four of the Cantor’s grandchildren were at the service. To see Wendy beaming at her little grand kids sitting in front of her on the floor   and being totally into their “grammy” conducting the service was special to see. To hear all the other kids singing and shouting and having a good time, really brought home how are clergy can make our heritage to be fun for all ages.

Continuing… I encourage everyone to attend a Family Service conducted by our Religious School students.  It was terrific to see the sanctuary filled with kids and their parents. The students were great in all their readings and songs. They put my limited Hebrew ability to shame. However, to see all the parents in attendance knowing how important it is to give their children the gift of being Jewish, makes all the hours and hard work we put into the “business” of running the temple worthwhile. There was a buzz and energy in the sanctuary that night. All who attended could feel it. At the Oneg, several parents came up to me to express the same feelings. We are onto something big at TBY. Everyone could feel a new energy. Thanks to all who attended this special service-let’s keep this feeling going and growing.

Our Legacy… For many years, Elissa has been writing an article on The NerTamid Society. This is a group of congregants who have named the Temple in their estate plans. Under the chairmanship of George Fredland, we have a Committee where members are being trained in talking to you about leaving a legacy.  They will be able to answer your questions on what you can do and how to do it. Did you know that 75% of those who leave a legacy to an organization never inform the institution that they have done so? The institution, in our case is the temple. There is no way of thanking the donor during his or her life. Those of you who have questions, see George, Elissa, or others on the committee. If we cannot answer your questions, we will have the professionals from the Jewish Community Foundation who are helping us assist you. Historically, endowment funds are the best way to insure that your temple will be here for many generations to follow. We, as owners for the future of TBY, must become better aware how we can help.

If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to contact me through the Temple office.