On Friday July 10, Congregation Shir Shalom held their Annual Meeting where Bruce Corris presented this year’s President’s Award to the entire Congregation Shir Shalom family.

Here is what Bruce said when he presented the award:

“As you know, the President’s Award is always given to a member who really stepped up in the past year. Someone who made a difference for our temple, or our community.

As you also know, this is a year unlike any other. And when I considered this year’s award, I knew I had to do something different.

So, I asked myself, should I give it to the clergy? During this time of great uncertainty, they have gone above and beyond to keep you, our members, connected to Shir Shalom religiously, spiritually, and musically. We have not missed a beat when it comes to Friday night services. Some nights our live stream viewership has rivaled high holiday numbers. Now our parking lot services are bringing us together in a whole new way. They’ve come up with wonderful special events and have been here for you when you and your family have needed them. 

Then I asked myself, should I give it to the staff? They have worked tirelessly to maintain all our temple functions, from finances to logistics to education to building upkeep and more. They have put in countless hours making sure that CSS meets your needs however we can. They have dedicated themselves to this temple, and to its members. 

Or should I give the award to the leadership? The board and executive committee give so much to the temple. They give their time. They give their wisdom. They give their passion. We’ve met often and we’ve talked more often than that. I rely on them so much, and you get the benefit of their hard work.

Or should I give the award to our members. You have stepped forward in so many ways. You’re always asking, “What can I do for my fellow members? What can I do for the temple?” You’ve volunteered. You’ve come up with ideas for programs and fundraisers. Above all, you have been patient and understanding and supportive and I am so grateful for that.

So, I asked myself these questions, and the answer was an emphatic yes. To all four of the questions. Which is why this year’s President’s Award is being given to everyone at Congregation Shir Shalom.”

And here is what appears on the plaque:

In light of this year’s extraordinary circumstances, this year’s President’s Award is given to an extraordinary group: the Clergy, Staff, Leadership, and Members of Congregation Shir Shalom.

Thank you for your dedication, hard work, patience, understanding, and support. Even when we are separated, we are always together.

I have never been more proud and appreciative of our Temple family.

Bruce Corris, President

7/10/20

The plaque now hangs in the temple lobby, next to the coatroom.

On Monday, July 13, Congregation Shir Shalom was also featured in a new story about the impact of Covid-19 on their fundraising.  You can watch it here.

Thanks to all our friends at Congregation Shir Shalom – you make Jewish Buffalo proud!