PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

In the early fall bulletin, I explained why I think fall, and not spring, is the season of beginning and tied it to Wendy’s retirement. This time, I could easily use the more common cliché about spring and new beginnings because we will be soon saying goodbye to our Executive Director. As you know, David is leaving us after 13 years to spend more time with his family. He has our deep gratitude and appreciation for his lengthy service and commitment to TBJ. Watch the Temple weekly emails for information about a farewell event so we can all thank him in person.

This opening provides an opportunity for a complete evaluation of our current staffing and a discussion of our needs and wants going forward. The Board’s Executive Committee along with Erin and Charles are working together to determine what that looks like. Erin and Charles are both vital members of TBJ, and we all greatly value their work. Their input in this process is important as we want to ensure their continued commitment to us and make clear our commitment to them. As we reach conclusions, we will, of course, inform all of you. Should you have questions or comments at any point, please reach out to me at president@tbjdsm.org.

To repeat another theme from my early fall article, take the time to read through this bulletin and notice all the events that are happening for the TBJ and Des Moines Jewish community this spring. From a hamantaschen Havdalah and A Very Wicked Purim to the Rabbi’s adult education classes and the annual Temple seder, there is a lot going on! That doesn’t include the Federation’s events, of which there are many as well. As you can see, we are a vibrant community that enjoys spending time together. I hope you will attend one or many of these events not only to be with people you know but to meet our new members who are quick to get involved. And, as always, if there is something you want to do, please reach out to a board member or the Rabbi – not for approval but for support and encouragement of your interests.

While that was looking ahead, I ask your indulgence as I look backwards for a moment. On January 18, my youngest son Aaron became a Bar Mitzvah at TBJ. The support of this community for him and our family was incredible. Many attended the service to witness this milestone, and, in my favorite moment, to spontaneously applaud him after his D’var Torah, which (mom brag alert!) was pretty darn great. Some attendees gave him a card and a gift, and a few who didn’t even attend mailed a card to him. We were moved by everyone’s generosity of time and treasure, especially since I know it wasn’t just because I am currently the president. These outpourings of support happen here all the time with life cycle events. We are a congregation of people who support each other in good times and bad; who show up; who give; who spend time; who care. It has nothing to do with our building or our location; it’s because that is what being part of the TBJ family – and that is the right word – means. On behalf of Aaron, Scott, Terry and me, thank you all so very much.

Emily Kruse