Welcome to the JCAB Summer Breeze 2025!

 

What is the best part of our Shul?

 

Thank you to all who are thinking, “The Rabbi.”  Although I am honest enough to admit that some of you are thinking, “The Kiddush.”

 

I believe the best part of JCAB is that we are an ever-expanding community that brings so many different people under one roof. Young and old, year-round and seasonal, a variety of Jewish backgrounds, we are all part of one kehillah.

 

Pirkei Avot (2:4) teaches us, “Al tifrosh min hatzibbur – Do not separate yourself from the community.” Jewish life is not lived in isolation. It is built upon relationships - in prayer, in learning, in acts of kindness, and in the holy work of building a strong and enduring community. At JCAB, we go one step further. We reach out to expand the tzibbur, to invite, encourage, and welcome all Jews to be a part of our community. We strive for JCAB to be a place that offers something for everyone, while representing the very best of how Judaism elevates our lives and the lives of all around us.

 

This year, we honor members who do so much to make this a reality.

 

Howard and Louise Schulder are constantly thinking of how the Shul can do more – and making it happen. From programming ideas to hosting the Annual Kids Pool and Boat Party, they help make JCAB even more warm and welcoming for all ages and for all AB residents – from Granada to Clayton and all points in between.

 

Bruce Blakeman brings to JCAB a powerful voice of public service and unwavering Jewish pride. His advocacy for Israel and the Jewish people - locally, nationally, and globally - makes us all stand taller. He is also a model davener with a deep sense of faith that is evident to all who see him in Shul.

 

Gaby & Saul Safdieh represent the explosive growth JCAB has experienced in young families with children living in the community year-round. They take an active interest in the Shul and its programming, always willing to help and encourage others to participate.

 

This year’s Breeze is a celebration of all that we are doing together. JCAB is growing - not just in numbers, but in strength, in spirit, and in connection. And that growth doesn’t happen by itself. It happens because of dedicated individuals who lead, give, support, and inspire.

 

So, thank you for being part of this growing JCAB family, and for helping us continue to build a future rooted in Torah, community, and Jewish pride. Together, we are stronger. Together, we grow.