July 20, 2023

Shalom Chaverim (Dear Friends),

Throughout this very hot and wet July, Lori and I have taken cover indoors, in the comfort of our AC. We just finished watching Daisy Jones & The Six, which we both enjoyed, and outside, I’ve spent time buying, transporting and laying rock in my back yard. I usually end up in the pool after working outside in this heat, and I’ve been getting back into a lap pool as well, which has been important for my body and my mind.

At our Adolph & Rose Levis JCC, summer camp is the coolest place to be! Our Marleen Forkas Camp Kavod held its summer dance. It was an honor to be present for the Hawaiian luau-themed event, and I truly enjoyed interacting with these amazing campers – I even did a bit of dancing myself! The smiles on their faces warmed my heart. Last Friday I had the opportunity to witness Color War “Break”, which featured a really cool light show and of course… more dancing! There’s really nothing like being at camp for Color War – the ruach, friendship, and fun will become memories that last a lifetime for these happy campers.

This week’s Torah portion is Devarim (The Words) the first portion of the Book of Deuteronomy, the fifth and last book in the Five Books of Moses. In it, just 37 days before his passing, Moses begins to recount all that has happened during the Israelites’ 40 year journey to the Promised Land. It makes me think of how quickly time passes and the amazing things that happen in a year. It’s hard to believe that another camp season is moving toward its conclusion. That means another year of school and the Jewish High Holidays are waiting just around the corner. There’s so much happening here at our Levis JCC during the rest of the summer and of course throughout the year!

Light Shabbat Candles Friday evening at 7:55 pm.
Shabbat ends Saturday night at 8:51 pm.

Shabbat Shalom!

Marty