May is always a busy month filled with celebrations at Temple Shalom. On Friday, May 4, Temple members gathered together for the Confirmation of the class of 5778. Then, on Sunday, May 6, congregants enjoyed Temple Shalom’s 52nd Annual Meeting. It was a time to say thank you to outgoing President Josh Goldman for his hard work and dedication during his two-year tenure. Josh and his officers have much to celebrate. During his term, Temple Shalom increased the Endowment Fund by nearly 200%, brought Mercy Presbyterian on as a partner and a tenant, and signed a contract to bring new seating for the Sanctuary. At the meeting Josh said, “I chose to focus my two years on improving the financial solvency of Temple Shalom, so we can continue to serve our congregants and community for years to come. Due to the hard work of our staff, clergy, and Board of Trustees, we made huge strides towards this end”.
After the approval of the minutes and swearing in of new officers, including the election of incoming President Rodney Schlosser, it was time for Josh to announce the Volunteer of the Year. This year’s award was presented to Lonna Rae Silverman for her unwavering commitment to Temple Shalom as a religious school teacher, Sisterhood member (and a past president), B'nei mitzvah tutor, LIFT teacher, Caring Congregation Committee Co-Chair, Friends for Good Co-Chair, choir member, former Board member, and the first to raise her hand whenever there is a need.
The President’s Award is presented each year to a Temple Shalom Member who has truly made a difference at Temple Shalom and in the community. This year’s President’s Award was presented to Ken Glaser. Ken’s passion and love for Israel is evident in everything that he does. This August marks the third year of the Israel Today Community Symposium which brings the entire community together to learn about and support Israel. Without Ken’s passion, determination and hard work this program would not exist. “We, at Temple Shalom are grateful to Ken and his hardworking committee for always bringing us together for important conversations and meaningful community interactions!” exclaimed Rabbi Andrew Paley. “We are a better Temple Shalom family because of him!”
And with those closing words, the 2018 Annual Meeting was adjourned. Members moved into the Radnitz Social Hall where they were quickly greeted by religious school children who were ready to celebrate their last day of school. It was time for the seventh grade class to walk across the stage for their graduation ceremony. Certificates in hand, they could now throw their graduation caps in the air.
Next, it was time for Brotherhood Executive Vice-President, Steve Weintraub to present the Tracy Fisher Award to Elizabeth Dworkin. Named for Tracy Fisher, the daughter of Temple Shalom members Laurel and Mark Fisher, who died in 2009, this award honors her memory and her love of Judaism and all things NFTY.
Finally, it was time for the end of year slideshow which showcased a fantastic year of events, holidays and celebrations.
“It was another great year at Temple Shalom! We have some big, exciting changes coming in the fall and I know our students and parents will be pleased!” exclaimed Rabbi Ariel Boxman. “Thank you to all the staff, religious school teachers, volunteers, parents and students who made the 2017-2018 so amazing!”
On Friday, May 11, it was time for the official Installation of the Board. Temple members, friends and family gathered together to bring in Shabbat, pray and welcome the new Board Members. Guest Speaker, Jim Moroney, CEO of the Dallas Morning News, spoke about the importance of coming together as a community and having strong leadership to guide them on their mission. He complimented long-time friend, Temple Shalom President Rodney Schlosser on his leadership skills. “Our officers and board members are very excited about the upcoming programming year. I invite all our members and prospective members to participate in the rich offering of programs we have planned. Join us, join our community, and you’ll be glad you did,” said Rodney. For more information about upcoming events go to www.templeshalomdallas.org.