President’s message

KBI has been bustling with activity this fall, and I couldn’t be happier to see so much energy and engagement in our community. 

Over the past eight weeks, we’ve had a truly remarkable season: 

• We celebrated the High Holidays, bidding farewell to Rabbi Baruch Frydman-Kohl and warmly welcoming Rabbi Erin Polansky. 

• We enjoyed Sukkot in beautiful weather, including three sukkah hops at members’ homes. 

• Simchat Torah featured a fresh new twist, adding to the joy of the celebration. 

• We hosted a scholar-in-residence weekend, a memorable Yiddish Night, and Rabbi Polansky’s inspiring installation weekend. 

• And we celebrated as five young adults became b’nai mitzvah. 

 On top of these milestone events, our youth programming continues to ramp up. Childcare and Musaf Club are now offered weekly, while our much-loved Tot Shabbat meets twice a month. The Ottawa Talmud Torah began the new school year with enthusiasm, welcoming 45 students. In addition, we’ve hosted engaging events for AJA 50+, the Hillel Lodge Auxiliary, and the Jewish-Christian Dialogue. 

So I think it’s time to take a moment to reflect, celebrate our achievements, and plan ahead.

We invite you to join us for our Annual General Meeting (AGM) next Thursday, December 5, at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This is a valuable opportunity to connect from the comfort of your home and be part of shaping KBI’s future. 

Here’s what to expect at the AGM: 

• Welcoming two new board members and expressing our gratitude to those completing their terms. 

• Updates on our finances and ongoing efforts to ensure the synagogue’s long-term financial health. 

• Discussion of our plans to make KBI more secure, safer, and accessible for everyone. 

• Time for your questions, suggestions, and feedback. 

Rabbi Polansky, Cantor Green, Executive Director Jeremy Rosenberg, and I will all be there. We’re looking forward to seeing you at the AGM and hearing from you as we continue building our vibrant and welcoming KBI community together.