A LETTER
FROM DEBE BLOOM,
PRESIDENT
JCO BOARD OF DIRECTORS
December 2024
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Here we are, ready to welcome winter months, and Chanukah! I can’t help but remember what happened last month to our fellow Ventura County neighbors with the Mountain Fire that rushed thru the mountains and towns of Santa Paula, Somis, Camarillo. The loss that so many have endured is mind boggling and very reminiscent of our own experience of the Thomas Fire not so long ago. Every year, for Chanukah, our congregants gather warm jackets, sweaters, hats and gloves to donate to Help of Ojai. In years past, we have blessed others as we have been blessed. This year, with your agreement, I’d like to donate our collected warm clothing, to the Ventura County Community Foundation in Camarillo. Please drop off your contributions no later than December 23rd so we can get the warmth to the Foundation before Chanukah begins. Thank you for your generous hearts.
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And speaking of Chanukah, we have been planning our Chanukah party for a couple of weeks now. Please keep December 27th reserved on your calendar for our community event. We will gather at 6pm for a short family service with Cantor Mitzi—which will include lighting of our menorahs. This is always a warm sight to behold when everyone brings their menorahs into our shul and we light them together. The glow of the candles is always outdone by the sparkle in the children’s eyes. We are planning on a great meal (more on that later), games, prizes, entertainment and a Chanukah Chootanny!! And of course, L-A-T-K-E-S!! Keep your eye on the weekly eNewsletter that’s delivered each Wednesday morning.
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Last month, the first weekend in November, we had our Shabbat Services on Saturday morning, led by Rabbi Lisa. It was amazing, and refreshing. This was received so well that we are going to repeat it on December 7th. Saturday morning services will begin at 10AM, followed by a potluck lunch. Please plan on staying after lunch and join us in Torah Study (Rabbi was with us in November; I’m sure she’ll be with us again on the 7th). This means, however, that we will not be having services on Friday eve, December 6th.
Men…the Men’s Group has a really special event happening this month on the 19th. A limited number of tickets have been purchased for a jazz evening at The Grape in Ventura. If you haven’t already signed up for this event, do it now. Click here right now to get your ticket:​​ Go ahead…I’ll wait! And word on the street is that carpooling will be organized!
Our Bread n Butter social is happening on December 8th. A time for us to come together and just be, with the yumminess of some fresh baked items. We will also be acknowledging and awarding our picks for volunteers who have the vision of helping JCO become better than ever. Please come and enjoy some time together and help us recognize those who give of their selves to everyone’s benefit.
Our other monthly events continue: Rummikub is on the 12th at 7pm: Book Club is on the 19th and starts at 12 noon(note the change in the week because of Chanukah). Bunco is on the 18th at 6pm (we’re going to bring a bit of summer in!). Our online calendar is updated regularly. Be sure to utilize it!
We have a very special Speaker Series scheduled for the 11th, 7pm. Our own Leah Hecker will be sharing her experience with the Shoah Foundation where she interviewed survivors. This is certainly going to be an evening we won’t want to miss..and won’t forget. Please register:
Torah School is having open enrollment in January. Do you know of any kids who want to learn Hebrew and/or our Jewish traditions? Morah Hayley is doing so well in teaching our kids and allowing them to express themselves, we are getting rave reviews from their parents. Bring your kids (or your kids’ kids) to any of our classes as a drop in so they, too, can experience this great learning tool of Torah School. Thursdays, in our JCO Social Hall at 4pm (promptly).
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Recently we had a ‘guest’ Rebbe on our pulpit. Rick Bloom led us in prayer in community during the Thanksgiving weekend for Friday night Shabbat service. During his drash, Rick asked the congregation what we gave thanks for at our holiday table the evening before. I shared that I’m thankful that our congregants gave me the opportunity to lead our temple to the level it is today; to give me the challenge to step it up a notch, or three. I really hope that you are as delighted about how JCO has grown over the past 2 ½ years as I am. I’ve witnessed our congregants coming together as a 2d family. We have taken the steps to become community’d. And every single one of you are soo welcome to join in on this growth.
Here's to enjoying the month of December together…..
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b’Shalom
