Harry Cassman Last week, at the Annual Meeting of the Jewish Federation, people were talking about Harry Cassman, the first President of Jewish Federation, who served from 1936-1948. Current President Jeff Kripitz referred to Harry as a “larger than life” figure, fully committed to the bright future of the Jewish People. Those few in attendance who are “mature enough” to remember Harry personally, echoed that sentiment. “This community needs more Harry Cassmans!” seemed to be the theme of the night.

In Harry Cassman’s name, a special award is given each year by the Federation President to a young community leader who has demonstrated the qualities necessary to keep our community strong, vibrant, and wellfunded. Eric Wood was congratulated on possessing those qualities, as he received special recognition for all that he continues to do for Federation and for our community. Eric will be assuming the role of President of Jewish Family Service in June.

In addition to the presentation of the Cassman award, the Lutz family of Bon Ton Interiors received a corporate citizenship award, for their taking the lead in organizing a canned food drive last year which helped stock the shelves of local food banks.

Also, Ron Lewkowitz was recognized with a President’s Award for his ongoing efforts with a grassroots committee, in obtaining community feedback and in ensuring our local agencies operate effectively and efficiently.

President Jeff Kripitz shared the results of the 2009 Federation Annual Campaign, which closed at $781,000, down $100,000 over last year. Despite this reduction, there were more than 200 new contributors to the campaign, representing more than $60,000 in new contributions. Jeff Kripitz explained that the vast majority of the reductions came at the higher end of Federation’s contributor base, acknowledging that the challenging economic environment is felt in every sector of business and industry.

The Federation Board welcomed Jay Weinberg and Michael Burns to the Board. Both leaders are “graduates” of Federation’s leadership enhancement program. Rabbi Aaron Gaber, in his capacity as president of the Board of Rabbis, administered the affirmation of service to the Board and Officers.

Executive Vice President Bob Seltzer welcomed to the community Rabbi Shalom Ever, the new spiritual leader of Young Israel. Rabbi Ever offered a few words of Torah to kick-off the annual meeting.

Bob Seltzer closed the meeting, stressing the importance of maintaining and growing the Annual Campaign (which assists in addressing today’s needs) as well as the Federation Foundation (which assists in addressing future needs and opportunities.)

As the meeting adjourned, it was the general consensus that Harry Cassman would have been very proud of the community’s achievements, but mindful of the hard work it requires to keep the community strong.