As we come to the end of our fiscal year -- and my term as President -- I am proud of the progress that we have achieved together. Through the hard work and support of our congregants, Board of Trustees, clergy, and staff, we have accomplished a lot over the past year. The following were among the highlights:

Rabbi Stern -- We warmly welcomed Rabbi Rebekah Stern to her position as Assistant Rabbi. We could not be more pleased with Rabbi Stern's service to our community during her first year in the rabbinate. Along with Rabbi Feder and Cantor Barry, we are very fortunate to have Rabbi Stern as part of our outstanding clergy team.

Allison Steckley -- We also welcomed our long-time staff member Allison Steckley to her new role as Preschool Director. Building upon the rich history of excellence under our past Directors Bobbie Goldstein and Cindy Common, Allison has done a marvelous job leading the Preschool to new heights.

Youth education and programming -- Our religious school continues to reach for the stars under Eran Vaisben's leadership. We were delighted to have Yael Zaken join us this year as our Youth Director. Based upon the feedback we have received, the investment in having a full-time youth director of Yael's quality has had a meaningful impact on our youth programming.

Executive Director transition -- We said a fond farewell to our Executive Director of nearly four years, Amy Mallor. our Executive Director search committee, led by Liz Gottfried, found an ideal replacement in Sandy Silverstein. His warmth, experience, and judgment will have an important impact on life at PTS. We look forward to Sandy joining us this summer.

Financial stability -- PTS is on sound financial footing. Our members came through this year -- contributing more to our High Holy Day appeal than ever before and contributing dues to the best of each family's ability. Your generosity enables us to continue the outstanding programs and services that we offer.

Planning for the year ahead -- With the help of our rabbis and administrative staff, Cantor Barry is working with the largest class of B'nai Mitzvah students in recent memory. We are also preparing for Rabbi Feder's sabbatical this summer, as he will engage in a diverse array of seminars, meetings, study, and reflection that will undoubtedly benefit our community. Rest assured, PTS is ready to meet the challenges ahead.

A member-focused culture -- Finally, we have attempted to become more "member focused" in all interactions and communications with our congregants. While the term "member focused" is not always easy to define, you know it when you see it. We want every member to feel welcome at PTS also by clergy, staff, and by their fellow congregants. I expect that PTS will continue to work towards this objective with success in the years ahead.

As I come to the conclusion of my two-year term as President, I am grateful to all of you for your support, encouragement and guidance. Thank you for providing me with this opportunity to serve the community in which I was raised also and in which I hope to stay actively involved in the years ahead.