Once in a very great while an individual comes along who, through his drive and commitment to a dream, leaves a legacy for the Jewish community as a whole. Such an individual is Steve Turk.

When, twenty-two years ago he chanced upon Agudas Achim, the Synagogue which his Great-Grandfather, Harry Turk, helped to build in the twenties, the very future of the Congregation changed. At that point a Synagogue bordering on closure, Steve saw its magnificence and potential future, when others were ready to throw in the towel. Fighting those who would have sold the Synagogue, Steve stubbornly held on to his dream of a revived Agudas Achim.

For the last sixteen years Steve served as President of our Congregation. For most of his tenure he had little if any support from a Board or other members. He went it alone in the fervent hope that things would work out.

And they have! This year Steve was privileged to see a High Holy Days attended by mostly young American Jews. Individuals expressed interest in playing active roles in the future of Agudas Achim. This year we elected an active and committed leadership in our new officers. Steve has realized his dream of stabilizing the Synagogue and setting it on a path toward a wonderful future.

His dedication, his stubborn commitment to Agudas Achim for almost three decades has earned Steve a special place in the history of our glorious Congregation. As Steve steps down from the Presidency, remaining on our Board and forever retaining the title of Honorary President of Agudas Achim, our Congregation salutes him for a job well done.