Dear Temple Beth Tikvah Congregants and Community Friends,
As the new president of Temple Beth Tikvah, I want to thank you for paddling this river with us.
Like any great river journey, our path is a mix of peaceful stretches and swift-moving rapids. Sometimes we glide through calm waters—steady, familiar, and serene. Other times we find ourselves scouting the best route through more turbulent sections, choosing our line with care and courage. No matter where we are on the river, the journey is rich with meaning, purpose, and a sense of awe at the view.
This year’s board is a powerful crew—each person bringing paddle, compass, and insight to steer TBT into a strong future.
- Jeff Adler, a founding member and member of our Finance Committee, helps connect our past to a sustainable vision for what lies ahead.
- Cere Fingerhut, past president, brings steady leadership and the wisdom of experience—she’s been shaping this journey for four years.
- Dave Liedman, our treasurer, is keeping close watch on the resources we need to hire and support a full-time rabbi.
- Paul Spencer, also a founder, now leads our Ritual Committee, curating lay-led programming that nourishes our Shabbat gatherings when Rabbi Sara is away.
- Michelle Gutmann heads up our Rabbi Search Committee and is working closely with the CCAR to ensure we find a rabbi who fits our spirit and aspirations.
- Greg Warren energizes our efforts with creativity and business sense, always asking us to think freshly and act boldly.
- Laura Fritz, our vice president, offers nonprofit expertise and helps us strengthen our foundation—including plans for the religious school’s future.
Each of us is paddling together, not just with our skills, but with deep gratitude for this community. We welcome your questions, your ideas, and your energy. If you feel inspired by what you see on the riverbanks—call us, write us, share your view.
The waters ahead are full of promise. Let’s scout the route, support each other through the rough patches, and keep our eyes on the beauty and purpose that brought us here in the first place. And, of course, join us for the Float the River event on August 16 at one of our beautiful Bend parks.
With warmth and gratitude,
Ginger Weeden
President, Temple Beth Tikvah