Change we can believe in. Remember that slogan? Just two years later and we have no change. Nor is there much belief left either. BUT - we still have two years to go.

Now imagine we had elected our President for life. I'd have packed my bags and found a new nationality already. Yet that is exactly what we are about to do here in our shechunah; elect an unknown candidate running on a populist platform for a fresh leaf and a new tomorrow. As if we've already forgotten how that worked out last time. But this time, the outcome will be permanent.

I have no bias or preference for any candidate. But I am afraid. Terrified actually, because we are ready to elect an unknown candidate to a lifetime position. Why? What's the rush? Are we compulsive gamblers - we only play all or nothing? Why can't we have a tryout period? I think the rational thing to do is to elect a Rov for a three year trial period, at the end of which we can hold a referendum; whether to confirm the elected Rov for life, or to find another one who can deliver. When I got married I dated till I knew I was making the right choice. I didn't just go along with "change I could believe in." This is the same thing. It's a lifetime decision. And we only have one chance to do it right.

Usually, the custom by Jewish communities had been to elect permanent Rabbonim. But this not a usual case. Two of three candidates are neither well know, nor local. If we are going to elect them for life, we need a chance to know who they are.

I care. As Crown Heights residents, we have a right and responsibility to protect our future. Please sign our petition to Rabbi Rosenberg for the sake of our community.

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