Grateful and eager for the future

Stan Alliker

As the incoming President of JCMI, the reform Temple serving Marco Island and the surrounding Naples communities, I feel both grateful and eager. I am grateful that this synagogue of dedicated worshippers elected me to lead us into a period of renewal and strength, and I am eager to see what the future holds.

Our newly elected Board of Directors stands on the shoulders of the previous Board’s guidance through two years of COVID-related closures and creation of virtual services that were viewed from other states and even other countries. A few months ago, under the oversight of our physician-lead COVID Task Force, we opened our synagogue for Friday night services (complete with delicious, homemade Oneg treats), Torah study, mahjong, the successful cultural and film series and the congregational Seder. The ongoing presence of the Marco Island Police Department sees to our physical safety and peace of mind.

Now is the time when our snowbird friends go north and those of us who are “year-rounders” settle in for lighter traffic, shorter lines and last-minute fine dining. As we enter this time of review and planning, I am happy to report that we are growing as new members discover the leadership, knowledge, warmth and hospitality of Rabbi Mark Gross, Cantorial Soloist Hari Jacobsen and the entire congregation.

Over the summer, we will continue our Friday night services led by Cantor Hari with congregational participation. We will be busy planning next season’s special events for the community, including the much-anticipated reopening of our popular weekly BINGO.

I encourage everyone to look for us, pray with us, and join us for wonderful ways to learn and grow your Jewish self.