At this time, I would like to thank Albert, Honey, Debbi, Mona, Michael and Jeff for helping to make this a beautiful and memorable evening.

On March 30, 1967, a group of 60 guys got together to form a lodge, calling it Forestdale Heights. Forty-seven years later the group might be different but the goals of community service, social and friendship still surround us.

My goals this coming year are to increase membership and look forward to getting involved in more community service projects. This past year we participated in helping the Yellow Brick House at Christmas time, the ongoing Pride of Israel Kosher food bank, the Christmas gift project for EMS, police and firemen, bingos at 4300 Bathurst and the Toronto Marathon, which took place this morning (May 5).

Forestdale Heights lodge takes pride in our social functions and I am, hopeful, that these will continue. George has secured a date in December for our lodge Chanukah party.

I would like to take a few moments to remember our past presidents who are no longer with us – Al Reider, Norm Aronson, Stan Penzner, Bonnie Kates and Irv Pupko.

Ray, would you kindly come up. I would like to present you with a Forestdale Heights pin, which is in place of a past president’s pin. The pin is on order. I also have a gift for you.

Rosalie, would you kindly come up. The custom in our lodge is to present a gift to the outgoing president’s wife. Rosalie, you have endured three years of this job, and I’m sure you are looking forward to Ray’s retirement as president. Good luck to both of you.

Debbi, they say behind every successful man there is a woman that he can count on to be his speech writer, secretary, prepare his meals, and everything else which comes with the job. I love you.

“People Helping People” is the B’nai Brith motto, which is the dedication and commitment to the ideals of community service. I look forward to having a successful year working with the new executive.
Harvey Silver