The Temple Sinai of Glendale congregation welcomed Donna Baar of La Crescenta as its new president. Baar and her family have been members since 2000 and are very involved in the community. Baar’s husband, Roger, served as president from 2008 until 2010 and both have been on the executive board, board of directors and temple committees for many years.

Baar grew up in Brooklyn but lived in Albuquerque for many years before settling in Southern California in 1990. An accountant, she has worked independently since 2005, allowing her to split her time between business, family and temple life. While her family has given a lot to the temple, she said the temple gives back to her in many ways.

“Temple Sinai has given me a place to sit and reflect and re-prioritize what is important and what I should just let go,” said Baar. “It has kept me grounded.

“Our clergy and staff are always looking to improve and re-imagine our services, religious school and community experiences. I think I’m coming in on a very good foundation of a positive and active community. I would like to see each member of our congregation engaged in some part of temple life, services, education, social action, friendship groups, youth programs or volunteering.”     The congregation thanks outgoing president Eddy Polon for his term in office.