Six years ago, our CSERC staff had managed to develop a website that we thought was pretty adequate.  But some of our board members encouraged us to actually find out from CSERC members what they thought of the website.  The criticisms were respectful, but clear.  The website was judged to be difficult to use, not attractive, and unprofessional.

      Unsure how to upgrade or how we could enhance our site, we looked around for a web consultant to save the day.  Jim Novak was our web hero.  Over a period of months he patiently worked with our staff to not only reformat and increase the attractiveness of the CSERC website.  He also creatively brainstormed with us how to feature a slide show, where to store photo galleries, or where kids’ items could be easily displayed.  He helped us set up our E-newsletter, encouraged us to join Facebook, and truly inspired us in many ways.

     Jim worked for very little pay, yet the quality of his work was a major step up for our nonprofit center.  Over three years of giving us his consulting support, Jim solved challenging problems, helped staff learn how to blog, suggested new approaches to the web work, and did something most webmasters wouldn’t even consider.  Jim patiently taught CSERC staff members how to upload articles, make formatting changes, and do the other technical tasks that gradually allowed the staff to take over all the website work independently of Jim, without his services.

      Even after our staff became competent at website skills, Jim still made sure that we knew he was a quick resource whenever a problem or challenge arose.  The Center would not be as effective in reaching out through the Internet if Jim had not creatively brainstormed with us and taught the staff needed skills.

      Many know Jim for his decades of musical talent, his fame as an entertainer, and his years of providing musical ministry for various churches as well as the community.  CSERC will remember him for his humor, patience, and generous assistance and talents that will continue to ripple outward in our ongoing web work and online communications.

James Novak – September 6, 1952 – January 4, 2012