PRESIDENT'S CORNER by Morrie Kelsey June 2002 mnkelsey@juno.com

The Rabbi and the Board counted the Omer (Sefirah 34). 

Since the meeting was held just prior to the Congregational Meeting, the main purpose of the agenda was to discuss the proposed budget for our next fiscal year (2003), which begins July 1 of this year.  Only reports from selected committees were discussed.

Treasurer’s Report:  Garry Cohen reviewed the April budget first before discussing the proposed budget.  Overall, income still exceeds expenses, and the budget is still favorable 80% through the year.  Excess funds will be used to pay down the principal on our mortgage.   

Bingo Report:  Marcia Newfeld handed out the report.  Bingo continues to do well and should generate more money than projected. We always need additional workers as well as a Bingo Coordinator to replace Milt Golenberg.  Please contact Janet Potash or Marcia if you can help. 

Budget and Finance Committee:  Roger Strong presented the proposed budget for fiscal year 5763/2003.  He prepared a report, which he discussed both at the Board and Congregational Meetings.  Highlights of the budget include raises for personnel, a modest travel allowance for teachers who live outside of Frederick County, a tutoring charge for Bar/Bat Mitzvah lessons, a small increase in tuition for our students, a modest (3%) increase in dues, and a subsidy to both the Religious Education and the Day School. The Day School will be a separate entity next year to qualify for tax exempt status and be able to apply for grants.  It was also recommended that we continue to put money aside each year for the new Assistant Rabbi/Religious Director so that we can afford the salary that such an individual requires. Garry Cohen then reviewed each line item with the Board to make sure that everyone understood the changes made from last year.  The Board approved the proposed budget and thanked Roger and his Committee for their hard work in developing a balanced budget.  The budget was later presented to the Congregation.

House Committee:  Carl Lazerow reported that the installation of a new door to the new Resource Room (adjacent to the Library) on the second floor has been completed.   

Bruce Zavos has completed a plan for treatment of the walls in the Social Hall to improve the sound quality.  Bids from four contractors are expected by May 3.  Adam Treiber reported on the status of the Kosher Sound System under construction for our Sanctuary.  It will be installed prior to the High Holidays.  Adam is also negotiating a contract with the manufacturer, for the purchase of and warranties associated with this system. 

Long-Range Planning:  The architect, Levin/Brown of Baltimore, has sent his contract to Beth Sholom for the phased expansion of the Community Center. Carl Lazerow is currently reviewing the language of the contract.  Marty Potash reported that we are in touch with another organization in New York [The Academy of Jewish Religion (AJR)].   Marcia has sent the AJR a package of information about our Synagogue and directed them to our website.  Marty and I will work on a more detailed job description for the position of Assistant Rabbi/Assistant Religious Director. 

Board of Education (BOE):  Jeff Rossio reported that the BOE is working on a slate of candidates for their Board and have revised their bylaws. 

Sisterhood:  Sylvia Elfman wishes to inform the Congregation that the gift shop will close on May 12.  However, if you need anything after that date, please contact Sylvia.

Youth Committee:  Stacee Springer did not present a report to the Board but reminded everyone that a ‘Recognition Dinner’ for the Mitzvah Club is on May 15. The Mayor of Frederick will be the guest speaker!  If you would like to serve as an adult volunteer, please contact Stacee, since she would like to have help in running these worthwhile projects. 

Gala:  Stephanie Egly informed the Board that the theme of this year’s Gala is the 85^th anniversary of Beth Sholom.  Plans are progressing nicely for this event and will feature a musical evening featuring Ladino/Flamenco music and dancing.  They are also planning to have a kosher Spanish dinner. The Gala will be held on Saturday evening, November 2, 2002.  Please mark your calendars. 

Congregational Meeting:  The Congregational Meeting was held following the Board Meeting.  The highlights of the meeting included the presentation of next year’s budget, the bylaws, and election of officers.  The proposed slate was approved by acclamation.  Mazel Tov to our new President (Garry Cohen), Treasurer (Joanna Pierson) and Board Members (Cindi Diamondstone, Stephanie Egly, Sid Kandel, and Stacee Springer).  Our new Nominating Committee will be Marianne Hornstein, Daniel Allex, and Ellen Berkowitz. 

That’s the news from the President’s Corner.  See you next month.