I am stepping down as President of the JCK as of the upcoming High Holidays. I will still be around to assist, am willing to serve on the board, or just be available as in an emeritus position. I can not for speak for Dale. She has been an invaluable partner in keeping our community alive.For those who want to affiliate with an eclectic, egalitarian, religious, spiritual, non-affiliated Judaism, there is a need for us. There is a need for you.I know we do not speak to all the Jews on Kauai. There is Chabad for Jews seeking a more formal approach. There will always be seekers on their own spiritual path.It’s time for you to step forward and take on the task of shepherding your children and our community to a newer, higher level and address the challenges of our small yet vital group.Your leadership and energy will take the JCK to its next level of service to the Jews on Kauai and the visitors who look forward to joining us when they are away from their home congregations.My 25 year history with JCK.It was approx 1989. Dr. Bennett Parnes asked me to join the board of the newly formed JCK. Noting that I said yes was curious to me as I hadn’t been a practicing Jew since my Bar Mitzvah in 1959. But along life’s journey my heritage had not been lost. I was raising my kids with a Jewish awareness, which for some reason was very important to me, thanks to the open mindedness and support of my loving, non-Jewish wife Carole.I said yes to Dr. Parnes because something inside told me that I could and should make a commitment to a Jewish presence on Kauai. I did not do this for personal gain or recognition (or monetary reward!). Watching our community come together to worship, find answers to unfathomable questions, witnessing the transformative process of a child becoming a young man/woman through their Bat/Bar Mitzvah trainings, and countless other life-affirming events, my involvement with the JCK has repaid me with countless moments of satisfaction.Upcoming ElectionsWe will open the floor for nominations for President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer to the community prior to the High Holidays. Voting will take place by email. In a subsequent post you will be receiving a ballot and instructions for voting.May our community continue to grow and thrive and be available as a source and resource to all who find comfort here.Shalom,Marty