For those residing in Edmonton no one needs to be told how hot it is in this record-breaking week. What I can tell you is how hot things are in our office! There is a hive of activity, with all staff having re-entered this week (masked of course) and so much cooking for you over the summer. 

We are thrilled to announce that this week we have received a generous grant to enhance our COVID relief efforts from the Ministry of Community and Social Services, Government of Alberta. These funds are specifically directed to social isolation reduction activities and have allowed us to ensure a broad lineup of programs this summer for the entire community. We will further support beneficiary agencies in their programs and efforts as well, and we look forward to sharing those announcements with you in the coming weeks. 

In the meantime, Jenn (Education and Engagement Specialist) and Shira (Canada Summer Jobs Student) have planned a Summer Adventure Series for our community to reconnect with one another. JKids Drop off days, complete with field trips (including a visit to Camp BB) as well as a pre-Shabbat gathering series and community adventure days are all in store! These are at little or no charge, and a great way to meet up with old friends and make some new ones as well. You can learn more by visiting our website. It will be updated regularly.

The week only got hotter when we received confirmation of a PJ Library Engagement Grant from the Harold Grinspoon Foundation to launch Shalom Baby! The first gathering will be taking place on July 12. If you or someone you know has a baby 0-2 years please contact Jennifer for more information. 

Heritage Festival planning is in full swing for the August long weekend. We hope to see many of you support our pavilion and community by coming to say hello, purchasing a falafel plate and cheering on the Aviv Dancers. This event relies heavily on volunteers, please sign up (Bonus – you get our new pavilion t-shirts, and a free falafel plate!) We will be arranging a shuttle bus throughout the day from Beth Israel Synagogue for our volunteers, details to be announced soon.   

With additional energy and enthusiasm of our new co-chair, Darryl Antel, we are preparing for our next United Jewish Appeal Campaign. We have a wonderful opportunity to welcome Yossi Klein Halevi, author of Letters to My Palestinian Neighbor, to Alberta (virtually) with the Calgary Federation and eagerly look forward to this event on September 19!

Stay cool and have a peaceful Shabbat.

Stacey