Now that the High Holy Days have concluded, we move ahead into a new year with a renewed sense of purpose. As I mentioned in my Yom Kippur address to the Congregation, there have been many positive happenings at Beth Israel over the last year, primarily due to the hiring of Rabbi Schwarzman and the great efforts and follow through of our volunteers. But now what? As the year 5769 begins, our efforts continue as we seek to support our congregants who come to pray, to study, and to socialize in programs and events at Beth Israel.

The leadership of Beth Israel includes our rabbi, gabbais, board of directors, and committee chairs. The annual meeting on October 26 will include elections of new Board members and officers for the coming year. Following this meeting, the president will appoint committee chairs and members, and some turnover on committees will definitely occur to include more volunteers. A new listing of committee members and chairs will be posted in early November with contact information. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the lay leadership for their service over the past year.

Lastly, please consider joining a committee or championing a project or becoming an "on-call" volunteer. Beth Israel is full of hope and optimism, with a fresh start in 5769.

See you at Shul!