Last year, I stood before you and gave many examples of how I knew that our community here at Temple Beth Sholom was thriving.  Tonight, I am pleased to say that we are still thriving.  We have had an exciting year, with innovative programming, increased ritual participation and two outstanding congregational trips to Israel with Rabbi Scolnic.  Just check out our new and constantly improving web site:  www.tbshamden.com to see how vibrant our congregation truly is.

Let me start by thanking Shira Rosenblatt for a lovely introduction, and for volunteering to serve as Installing Officer tonight & organizing the service.  While on the subject of Thank You’s, let me also thank each of the outgoing directors and trustees for their years of service to Temple Beth Sholom.

A few months ago, I wrote about the Etz Chaim synagogue in Bentonville, Arkansas.  More recently, I corresponded with Etz Chaim’s president, Betsy Rosen, because I was curious about how the synagogue has fared after receiving the publicity that accompanies a New York Times feature article.  I also asked Betsy to identify for me some of the biggest challenges facing this young synagogue, located in a much different part of the country.