Dear Friends,

For many years, Jeff Rossio has chaired the Religious Affairs Committee. This committee is responsible for many things, including organizing the Thursday and Sunday services, the Shiva minyans, and overseeing the High Holiday services. Jeff has done an outstanding job. His efficient business-like approach, along with a keen understanding of Beth Sholom’s traditions, has made him a wonderful asset. It truly cannot be overstated how important his role has been in assisting Rabbi Kosman and more recently Rabbi Wiesenberg. He recently accepted a new job which will be more demanding on his time. He therefore will be unable to continue as chair of the RAC. Please join me in congratulating Jeff on his new job, and thanking him for his many years of fine work.

The following are the highlights of the Jan 8th Board of Trustees meeting.

Treasurer’s Report: Joanna Pierson reported that we are halfway through our fiscal year. So far income and expenses are reasonably close to forecast.

Budget and Finance Committee: The development process for next year’s budget has begun. Andy Mekelburg reported that the committee would continue to meet with the expectation of finalizing next year’s budget prior to the March Board of Trustees meeting. The group has completed reviewing the current year-to-date budget.

House Committee: Bruce Zavos advised that the House Committee met with the Historic District Commission the second week of January to discuss the options regarding the porch at Rabbi Kosman’s house. They will be forwarding more information shortly. Carl Lazerow reported that there are still roof and masonry repairs, and some plastering work, needed at the Rabbi’s house.

New Member Committee: It is heartening to note that we frequently get prospective members calling seeking information. We try to return a phone call to everyone who is interested in joining. Stephanie Egly advised of a new member family that joined within the past month.

Gala Committee: Celia Zahler reported that the Awards Gala drew a crowd of about 85 people. It was a wonderful event and it appeared that everyone thoroughly enjoyed it. Most members of the Gala Committee discussed their expectations for future events. It appears that we continue to show a gradual reduction in numbers of people attending. The committee will continue to investigate new ways to try to increase attendance.

Bingo Committee: Richard Stern reported that the Bingo games are going well. The receipts for December were excellent. The Bingo console was replaced and the Bingo callers and captains are in the process of being trained on it. 

Holocaust Remembrance Committee: Sylvia Haber is chairing this committee, and is in the process of selecting a speaker for the April service.

Long-Range Planning Committee: The LRP Committee is meeting the architect to review the first set of plans for the eventual Community Center expansion.

Next meeting is scheduled for February 12 at 7:30pm in the Weinberg Chapel at the Community Center. Topics of discussion will include the Day School, a proposal to change the format of the Gala Ad book, and a review of our ticket and security procedures for the 2004 High Holiday services.

Volunteer of the Month: Please join me in congratulating Richard Stern as our volunteer of the month. Richard has become very active in our congregation in a very short period of time. He chairs the Singles Club and offers invaluable assistance with Bingo. He also files the necessary Bingo documentation with the Frederick County gaming commission.