I had explained in previous messages, that the Board and I would be working on reducing our financial debts. I would like to give you an update as to what has been done since we last spoke.

To reduce our Electrical cost ---you will begin to see workmen in and around our building from a company called NEXEN. This company will be replacing different elements around and in the Temple to reduce our electrical costs and in turn the costs from Connecticut Light & Power (CL&P).

We will also be meeting with one of the leaders of the URJ to discuss how - through our MUMS dues- they can help us with various needs of our Temple--- from how to do Fund raising to better ways to do the Social Action Committe and other concerns we may have. We would also like to see if we can reduce the cost of those dues.

At this time I would like to thank all those who responded to my H.H. Appeal Letter. With your donations and the efforts of our Board to find ways to raise money from outside our Temple, we are starting to see our Debt go down. However though this is a good start, more is needed and I'm sure with all of us coming together we will succeed.

Last but not least: Our Temple needs volunteers: Social Action Committee---as you all know our V.P.s Pam and Todd Nicholson are no longer able to do this wonderful part of our Temple due to Todd 's illness---our congregation needs some people to step up to the plate! Our youths needs you! There is a need for some people to take the Youth Committee position and with that to work with the only volunteer person Phyllis Leibman to help with SWFTY!

Can you help? Is there something that you can do for your Temple? Please feel free to contact me, and let me know what you can do for your Temple. You can reach me at 860-651-6156.

On another topic:

Our Art Committee will be meeting soon to address the Temple's Entrance area (the foyer). We would like to eleminate the clutter that is there now and create a more "inviting" area for our Temple. More details will follow

The other area of concern is The Coat Closet area ---this area continues to be used as a "dumping site" for various items, boxes, garbage, etc. It has also been used as a play area for children to play ball in. Especially during the High Holy Day services. These children should be in our Sanctuary during Sabbath service or in the Noah's Ark room (the small glass in room in the rear of the Sanctuary); otherwise an adult needs to be with them. Children running around are disrespectful to the our Temple and to our religious praying.

It has also been brought to my attention that the rule of "white/clear juices/soda only" for various Temple events has been ignored or forgotten about. PLEASE - only white juices and soda should be served at any Temple function. The red, grape and orange juices/soda stain our carpeting. We had the carpet cleaned for the High Holidays, and already there are new stains on it.

Please help me to keep these areas clean and in use for the reasons they have been established.

Thank you
Stanley J. Goldberg Pres.