Twenty-threeyears ago, a group of enlightened, wonderful, caring Jews organized a fledgling synagogue in Northern San Luis Obispo County. The beautiful name selected for the congregation they gave birth to was Ohr Tzafon, Hebrew for "Northern Lights". Today, we are the beneficiaries and recipients of this generous religious legacy. The synagogue, so aptly named then and today, truly is a light of the North County. It is the people however, who enter its doors, pray in its sanctuary, celebrate in its assembly, and share their spirituality and friendships, who are the true lights of this North County Congregation. You are the beautiful glowing light of Congregation Ohr Tzafon. Your warm, caring, helpful and welcoming approach to our COT community is our true Northern Light.
In looking forward to the next couple of years we need to focus on building on our community strengths and seeking ways to meet the needs of various smaller groups. Based on conversations with people who have been here since the beginning, maybe it’s time to try some of those early practices like Shabbat dinners, in small groups for instance or multiple Havdalah celebrations on Saturday early evening, as well as new opportunities to connect.
Larry and I have a marveled at the warmth and acceptance we have felt since that first Shabbat service we attended 4 years ago. We will work tirelessly to honor the trust you have given us to continue the leadership of COT.
We are especially thankful for the exceptional leadership of Jerome and Rita Becker. They have worked very hard as Co-Presidents to guide our congregation these last two years. The growth in Torah School is a direct result of the beautiful playground we have, thanks to the efforts of Jerome and Rita and the many people in our COT family who made it happen. Their quick actions in making us a safer community was exceptional. We are fortunate to have them as Past Presidents to help advise us as we move through this adventure.
This place is special for a myriad of reasons but it really comes down to the people. There are people who bring yummy treats for the Oneg and buy Hallah, generous donors, Torah school students, teachers and parents, membership directory creators, fund raising gurus, Jewish education teachers, Shofar blower, activity volunteers, service leaders, choir members and musicians, sunshine committee angels, greeters, security volunteers, set up and take down workers, ECHO volunteers, facility volunteers, and our committee members. What is exceptional is people wear many hats and do it all with a smile
Thank you to the incredibly talented, selfless, and committed Board of Trustees who volunteer their time and talents to provide the energy critical to the function of Congregation Ohr Tzafon, when we meet again on August 13th.
A final thanks to Rabbi Janice, for shining the warm light of her personality and the spiritual light of Judaism to our COT family.
Wishing everyone a wonderful start of summer and fourth of July.
לחיים
Larry & Melany Spielman
