There are many firsts on SummerAssembly.org this year. There is more information than ever contained in these pages with more being prepared for publication. Please interact with this site as it is designed to be used. It is not simply a source of static information but a great communication platform to connect us with each other, the Trustees, the Committees, and the Administration. SummerAssembly.org is a year round, non stop resource for participating in our community.
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The Summer of 2008 was one to remember. The CSA was again in great form and for this I thank you all, our solid staff, and the leadership of Ken Cox. To put it simply, it felt like we came together for the right reasons – the Assembly Spirit is alive and well.
As turbulence works its way through our country’s credit system the CSA is not immune. The Board has approved a small increase in fees for 2009 based on a declining revenue trend and our expectations for 2009. Our Pilgrim and Endowment Funds market values have fallen on paper while the Pilgrim Fund continues to experience a multi-year decline in contributions. The Pilgrim Fund just meets its obligation to cover the religious and educational expenses of the Community. However, it has become apparent that we must strengthen its position and lead it to appropriate, sustainable growth. I ask that you seriously consider the essential nature of this tax deductible giving opportunity to our financial health and ongoing ability to fund our core activities.
The Secretary’s Page lays out for your consideration a proposed change to our by-laws. The amendments add breadth to our democratic principles requiring a larger number of members present to establish a quorum, extend the notification period, and require a two-thirds majority to pass when a by-law change is put to a vote. The Board presents these changes to encourage greater membership involvement when addressing the fundamentals of our governance. I look forward to your participation.
Since my first November meeting as a prospective Board member in 2004 the CSA has identified the Frankfort Golf Course property as a consistent theme. Many actions and emotions have held the stage since that time. Now the property has become a family gathering place – purchased and improved for thoughtful development at the hands of a dedicated group of CSA members. Mr. William Beck has played an important role in this effort and he has kindly contributed another informative update that I have posted in the pages of the upcoming Assembly News. With this update we note a turning point with the winding down of the LLC that was organized to monitor the property and eventually initiate its purchase.
The Trustees have agreed to assemble an initial survey of CSA members to encourage the input of our ideas, experiences and intentions regarding the current state and future outlook of our community. A better understanding of what all members expect and experience will make our decisions making process much more meaningful. As this project comes to fruition I trust that you will take the time to participate and bring the CSA Board of Trustees closer to the membership of the Assembly.
As Liv and Sam burrow in the snow outside today I cannot help but think about the gathering families and friends, the late afternoon swim, the sunsets, and the essential traditions that keep us, and our Assembly strong. Along with these trying times come hope and determination. I do know that we are truly blessed to have each other and a place such as this to come together.
Till we meet again – Joel Buzzell
