VBI President's Message - February 2017

                                                             Shalom everyone,

As usual I’ve have waited to the last possible minute to get this president’s message prepared for inclusion in the February newsletter but I can hardly wait to tell you of things that have been happening at the synagogue and of so much that is yet to come. Let’s start with the “new member” Shabbat dinner that was held on Friday the thirteenth in January. The lead time for reservations was extremely short but everyone came through in high style and we had a crowd of over 60 in attendance. The food was great (our traditional chicken or meatloaf entrée with all the fixins) and everyone had a wonderful time. It was especially nice to welcome many of our new members and even a few guests who have been attending services regularly.

 

Knowing that dinners bring out people and also the fact that most stay for the services that follow we are continuing the theme of having dinners, albeit not as elaborate as the January one, usually on the second Friday night of the month (“learning Shabbat”). Coming up this month on the 10^th we are having a Tu B’shevat seder followed by a dairy dinner and then services. Make your reservations by the 6^th to allow for the food to be purchased and all that goes into serving the dinner can be done. If you haven’t been to a Tu B’shevat seder, or haven’t even heard of one, come to this one and learn all about it.

 

Now let me give you a short synopsis of what will be happening at VBI during the next few months. In March, on the 11^th-a Saturday night, we will celebrate Purim and it will be a full night of festivities. First of all we will have a dinner which will be followed by our annual Purim “schpiel” as we act out the megillah story led by none other than Rabbi Mark as Haman. It is the highlight of the evening and we hope everyone will come in costume. That way you just don’t know who you will meet.

Also happening in March will be the return of the opera company starring Rabbi Mark as they perform “Don Giovanni”.  The cost is very reasonable and you will be helping your synagogue for one of the few fundraisers that we hold.  The date is March 26^th so make note of it and get your family and friends together for a wonderful time.

If you haven’t already guessed a month after Purim is Passover beginning the night of April 10^th. We’re trying to see if there is enough interest in having a second seder at the synagogue. Contact the office or Mona if you would attend.

Other things are in the works and you will find out about them as time goes on. Please support your synagogue by attending services any day whether it is a morning service, Shabbat service or holiday service. Our committees are busy and could use volunteers. Contact me to inquire.

One last important bit of information. I know many of you do not receive this newsletter as it is sent out over the internet; but we are working diligently to provide you with a printed copy. Our office has been swamped with changes to our entire financial system and we just haven’t had the opportunity to publish the hard copy. Again if anyone has some new ideas and time to help incorporate them you will be welcomed with open arms.

I hope to see you at the synagogue often.

                        Ron