The Temple Micah Board meeting in January highlighted two significant undertakings of interest to all of us. The first was a discussion of the qualifications and the search for a second rabbi, who will work part time. The second was the status of the Capital Campaign.

We are very pleased to report that Celia S. and Larry C. have agreed to co-chair the campaign. Both are recognized leaders of Micah, have served on the Board and chaired many activities. Celia, in fact, is a past president.

The Board reviewed the process of hiring an additional rabbi who will work part time beginning this summer. Rabbi Zemel has been evaluating the background and availability of candidates who he believes are compatible with Micah's culture and needs, and has narrowed down the search.

A committee comprised of Board and non-Board members will be key to the interview process. We plan to hold a congregational meeting, tentatively scheduled for 10 a.m. Sunday, March 13, to discuss the process and to receive the endorsement of a final candidate.

Rabbi Zemel has said he is looking for a rabbi who will do everything he does--from leading services to working with b'nai mitzvah students to helping congregants through other life cycle events. He also would like a rabbi who has an interest in and experience working with teenagers, and who could reach out to young adults.

Mostly, Rabbi Zemel has told the Board he wants someone who will embrace the Temple's vision, but who also will feel free to disagree with him.

The members of the committee that will interview the candidates represent a broad cross-section of the congregation, including bnai mitzvah parents, religious school teachers, new and seasoned members and parents of religious school children. [Names omitted for web publication]

A second, part time rabbi will address many of the Temple's needs, not the least of which is Rabbi Zemel's planned 2006 sabbatical. In addition, the congregation has grown from about 200 families in 1995 to more than 430 today. This has led to vastly increased educational activities and services, b'nai mitzvah, other family events and counseling. Rabbi Zemel also needs time to study and write and to participate in professional activities.

As mentioned previously, the Board also reviewed the work of the Capital Campaign Steering Committee. In addition to committee chairs Celia and Larry, the following members will chair the four subcommittees: [names of members omitted for web publication].

Rabbi Zemel proposed developing a mitzvah project for each Jewish holiday. This is modeled after such successful Temple projects as Underwear Month during the High Holy Days and Share the Light, our new Hanukkah project to distribute clothes, learning tools, toys and household goods to disadvantaged families.

Finally, the Board witnessed a presentation by David Diskin on Micah's updated Web site, which features greater interactivity and easier access to more information. David worked with Ed Grossman, who has been active on the project for a long time.

We welcome your comments and suggestions, and thank you for your continuing support.