As we arrive at Shabbat, I reflect on a week that highlighted, again and again, how deeply interconnected our community truly is.

Early in the week, I met with the new Camp BB Riback Executive Director, Cecil Horwitz. We spoke about our own formative Jewish experiences and the outsized role that Jewish camp plays in shaping identity, belonging, and leadership. Camp is so much more than a summer program; it is a gateway to Jewish life and a talent pipeline for our community.

I was also delighted to learn that we secured two Canada Summer Jobs positions. These roles will provide meaningful opportunities for local youth to gain employment, contribute to communal life, and receive mentorship from our professional team. Investing in youth is investing in our future, so please share these job postings with the young adults in your life.

Our first Mimouna was a resounding success. Nearly 300 people came together in a joyful and welcoming space—an opportunity to share Israeli hospitality with our community and allies while enjoying the sweetness of sfenj and meaningful connection. As we planned this event, my thoughts were with our dear friends in Kiryat Shmona, whose extraordinary hospitality has greeted our delegations so graciously over the years. While their own gatherings remain constrained, we were able—in a small but heartfelt way—to emulate that same spirit of openness and care.

Our partner region in the north continues to struggle. After returning home only a few short months ago, following nearly two years of evacuation, they have already faced renewed challenges and attacks, even before this latest phase of the war. Their tenacity has been remarkable, yet the reality of constant missile and rocket fire takes a profound toll. (And yes, there is a difference in sound and warning time between missiles launched from Iran, with minutes to reach shelter, and rockets fired from Hezbollah just hundreds of metres away.) While a recent ceasefire raises complex geopolitical concerns I won’t delve into here, I encourage you to stay informed through trusted sources like The Times of Israel and, perhaps even more importantly, to reach out directly to people you know. Thirty years of people‑to‑people connections mean something. It is never too late to send an email or a message on social media to let them know you are thinking of them. Ask how they are doing—and remind them that our coast‑to‑coast communities will be with them as they build back better.

I also want to offer deep thanks to Rabbi Alisa, Steve, Shane, Joel, and Evgeny, who attended the Edmonton Police Commission meeting to share firsthand what our community is experiencing and to express appreciation for Chief Dreichel’s visit to Israel. Presence matters, and your voices were meaningful. You can watch the recording now.

Midweek, we gathered for a dignified and meaningful Yom HaShoah commemoration. Minister Tanya Fir read the Holocaust Memorial Day and Genocide Remembrance Act Provincial Proclamation and conveyed the Alberta government’s solidarity with our community in the face of antisemitism—grounding the words “Never Again” in action and presence. Zion Barany spoke about his work laying the foundation for the future Jewish Heritage and Holocaust Centre, reiterating the call for historical items—a call already being answered by members of our community. Board member Sydney Podgurney served as a professional and steady MC, and I extend sincere thanks to the Holocaust Education Committee, led by Drs. Francie Cyngiser and Leon Kagan, for their continued leadership.

As we look ahead, I am deeply grateful to volunteer Keren for the tremendous effort being invested in creating a profound Yom HaZikaron ceremony, which will take place before the puck drops for the first playoff game. On Wednesday, we will gather again for a joyous Yom Ha'atzmaut celebration. Early‑bird tickets are available until Monday, with prices increasing at the door. These events also fall during National Volunteer Week, making this a perfect moment to thank the many volunteers who work alongside our staff team—planning, setting up, taking down, and holding our community together in ways both seen and unseen.

May this Shabbat offer rest, reflection, and renewed strength. May it remind us that even amid challenge and uncertainty, we are not alone—we are a community, each one a necessary piece of a beautiful and complex whole.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stacey