The Arrogance of Ignorance

In the last year, we’ve spent a lot of time and energy on building relationships in the community. At times, it was the most difficult thing we ever did. It’s hard to be disliked for who you are. It’s hard to be dismissed for your beliefs.

But we kept going, and we stayed in those rooms, and now some of the people who were most dismissive sit at the table ready to talk about the meaning of community in a new way. (more…)

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December 2024: President’s Message

Security Updates

About two years ago, it was announced that Temple Beth Sholom was the recipient of a security grant from the Nonprofit Security Grant Program. In the last several months, we have been able to implement many security improvements paid for from this grant. If you have been to the Temple or have driven by in the last month, you probably have seen the bollards that have been installed in front of the main entrance as well as in front of the back office doors to protect the building from a vehicle attempting to enter the building. In August, window security film was installed on all of the ground level windows (except the stain glass windows in the Sanctuary) as well as alldoors into the building. Lastly, radio walkie-talkies have been purchased that will enable those in the building to communicate in case of an emergency. (more…)

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Rabbi’s Torah Reading Challenge

On the High Holidays, I talked about what your Jewishness 2.0 for you might look like. I presented a very specific challenge, that I’d like to repeat and emphasize here. (more…)

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November 2024: President’s Message

A few months ago, I was sitting next to the Rabbi during a Shabbat morning service,  and like she does almost every month, Gerry Ganezer was about to chant the Blessing for Rosh Chodesh.  I remarked to the Rabbi how many members have their special “part” in helping our Temple.   The Rabbi agreed and also said  “that sounds like a great topic for a speech” – How everyone has their part.  Since that conversation I have reflected on how this Temple would not succeed if not for its members and their unique roles and responsibilities, many of which have not been assigned or elected but rather taken on by their own initiative.  (more…)

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A Pilgrim

Once, a pilgrim set out on a long journey in search of peace, joy and love. The pilgrim
walked for many weary miles and time passed. Gradually, his young, lively steps
became slower and more labored. The pilgrim’s journey passed through landscapes
that were not always happy ones. (more…)

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October 2024: President’s Message

Shana Tova

Having been Ritual Vice President the previous 2 years, I
know just how hectic it gets as we near the New Year. You
may not realize just how much goes into preparing for the
Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services. (more…)

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