English Speaking Members Activity Report

KSI Annual Members Assembly is a Worthwhile Event to Attend!

After being a member of KSI for three years and being in Panama at this time, I thought it would be a worthwhile experience attending the Congregation’s annual meeting which was held on the evening of September 1, 2016 in the Melhado Salon.

What I found out was while many members attend services and the various programs offered, when it comes to attending a synagogue business meeting for many it may not be the most important date on their calendar.

And all too often, the synagogue Annual Meeting is undervalued by many when in reality it may be the most important meeting in the life of a congregation. 

Members socializing and waiting for the meeting to begin

Gloria Halman and Graciela Cordoze Podest anticipating the meeting’s beginning

I attended for various reasons. One is that I am invested in the synagogue and am interested in knowing what its challenges and accomplishments are, its financial condition and to know who is on the new candidates slate for board of directors in order to be present and vote.

But one more important thing I found out by attending the meeting is that there is a core of members who really care about the workings of the synagogue; with it being the central and in this country quite possibly the one and only institution in their Jewish life and they can indeed care passionately about its current and future financial health and other challenges or let’s say opportunities.

I have come to realize as an American Jewish Expat, living in Panama, my options are limited as to how and where I want to affiliate as a Jew and KSI serves my needs, more than adequately. 

And by attending the meeting I found out it was also a wonderful way for long time members to reconnect and an excellent opportunity for newer members to get connected!

Board Members Amirah Deutsch and Frederick (Fredd) Maduro

Past President Geoffrey Osorio talking with Carlos Tirelli

 Ramy Azoulay and Immediate Past President Alan Baitel enjoying themselves

Lotte Zelenka and Fredd 

Also, being present was my way to recognize our Rabbi and the other professional staff for their many hours of time and devotion spent in making KSI a community for me to be proud of as a member.

 Moises and Rabbi Kraselnik conferring prior to the meeting being convened

While the meeting was late in getting started, a quorum was attained and it was convened by President Moises Abadi Maduro. 

There was a moment of silence in respect for fellow congregants who passed away since last years meeting and then and Secretary Maritza Lowinger read the minutes of the previous annual meeting.

Board Secretary Maritza Lowinger and President Moises Abadi Maduro

President Abadi Maduro during the course of the meeting reviewed the many accomplishments and programs at the synagogue, recognized the staff whom received an enthusiastic round of applause, Cantor Nurit Meresman-Azoulay, Synagogue Educator, Ruthy Kraselnik, Viviane Executive Director Hassine, and  Director of Community Development Walter Melman, whom were both present. The financials of the synagogue were presented and the report of the Nominating Committee was made and voted upon. And as in any board meeting a vigorous discussion pursued.

Fredd with newest elected Board Member Nessim Harrouche

Sisterhood V.P. Alexandra Henriquez “staffing” its table tempting members to sign up for home challah Shabbat delivery, assorted baked delicacies and publicizing upcoming activities 

Sisterhood members Shayna Blum-Hodes (Treasurer) and Jesica Abrago enjoying themselves at the meeting 

In closing, my attending the Annual Meeting was a positive and satisfying experience. It was positive because of all the care and concern members place in the wellbeing of KSI and satisfying in that I know that we are in good hands with both the Board of Directors and Staff.

I remember an advertisement that banks used as a way to entice people to save and it is applicable when being a member of a synagogue: “No investment, no return.”

Submitted by Robert Jacobvitz

Robert.jacobvitz@sbcglobal.net