by Gil Dichter, chair

New doors for the circular driveway were recently installed. The old doors, which served the Temple so well over many years, had deteriorated and become difficult to open, and security had been an issue since they would not close completely. Replacement was the only choice. The replacements are fire-proof steel doors with a wood veneer finish which will be a very close match to the finish of the wood frame. You will notice the ease of opening the doors when you enter the Temple. Security will be improved since the doors will be able to lock and one will need to buzz for entry.

We are finalizing bids for a new gas boiler to heat the Sanctuary, the area behind the bimah, the choir loft and heat curtains over the doors in both the upper and lower lobby. The new boiler will result in efficient energy usage and financial savings over the heating season. We anticipate completion of this project before the end of the year. The old boiler and the oil tanks will be removed which will result in additional storage space. The Heating-AC Management System was reviewed by Ken, Gregg and Dan of the House Committee and changes were made to the temperature and time settings. The day setting for heating will be between 68°-69°F with the set back to 63°-64°F at night. The day heating temperature will start at 6:30 am so the building can warm up for the Minyan, Day School and Office Staff. It will be set back at night starting at 10:30 or 11:00 pm. The same will be done for the AC cycle (72°-73°F during the day and 78°F during the night with the same set times as for heating). This should help save the Temple money in heating/cooling the building and in conserving energy.

The building has aged remarkably, but is in need of constant maintenance. Richard inspected the soffit which is bowing from the ceiling (above the bima and in front of the choir loft). He recommended removal of storage items to alleviate weight. Once this is completed we will jack the soffit up and bolt it into the beam in the ceiling. We have had a number of leaks in the old roof. Two were in the social hall, another in the outer room to the ladies bathroom and another in the janitor closet. Three of the four have been repaired and one needs additional work. Four ceiling tiles in the outer room will require replacement. We have requested a quote for the work required from the roofer.

There is weather damage around the large windows in the sanctuary. We are investigating what measures can be taken to remedy this problem. I would like to thank the members of the House Committee who are working diligently to maintain our synagogue: Roger Smith, Tom Berman, Dan Gatchell, Richard Abrahams, Shirley Rosen, and Gregg Garson.     

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