Winter is here and in full swing. What an amazing amount of snow it has brought us this year.  For those skiers -- like my family -- we are all excited to see the snow. For those who are not, it also brings out emotions, just not the same kind.  Whichever group you fall into, whenever there is a fresh coat of snow in Bedford it looks like a Winter wonderland.  The BJC Board has been very busy over the past few months with many successful events, several town issues and many upcoming events.  With all this activity, we still need more participation.

 

Again this year we had a very successful showing for volunteers and Senior citizens at our annual make and serve a meal for the Bedford Food Pantry.  Stephanie Kriesberg was one of the main organizers of this event again which over 50 Senior citizens attended.  It is just one of many ways the BJC has been able to give back to the community.  Thank you to all who participated.
   
We had a very successful Winter Cocktail Party hosted by Susan and Jonathan Inz.  The Fall also saw a great outing to the Capital Theater in Arlington to the Jewish Film Festival where we saw ‘Max Minsky and Me.’ Afterwards the group went to dinner at a nice restaurant across the street.

 

As always we participated in the Kristallnacht Memorial Observance, which the Reverend John Gibbons hosts each year.  Patty Kopperl and I participated in an Interfaith Thanksgiving Service to Benefit the Habitat for Humanity of Greater Lowell.

 

The BJC and its members have been very involved in several issues affecting the Jewish Community in Bedford.  This included response to an act of anti-semitism at JGMS and an anti-Israel book included on a list of 7th grade literature.  Both of these issues had the effect of drawing the Bedford Jewish Community in to help foster understanding and to take direct action.

 

Another example  where we were able to foster awareness concerns Bedford Day. The Town contacted me as they normally have Bedford Day on the 3rd Saturday of September. This year it would fall on Rosh Hashanah – result?  They are going to move Bedford Day (but yes it is still on Shabbat).

 

Jewish issues in Bedford, fun, entertainment and exciting programs do not just happen. They need someone to run them.  We need some folks to help step up and contribute.  We are not asking for much, but things as simple as hosting an event would help the Bedford Jewish Community. 

 

Over the past two years we have had many adult events and not as many events for families of younger children.  We are still searching for a person(s) to fill the Family Committee position on the Board -- or even just have someone host an event.  Many members on the Board have put on these children’s programs and would be happy to mentor someone ready to lead an event.  We will continue with our adult events, but wanted to make sure everyone knew that we are ready and able to assist in the next family event.

 

Upcoming?  Stoneham Theater – Strangers on a Train, Laser Tag, BBQ… please show your support.  Volunteer!  It feels good. Give Back to the Community.

 

Do not forget about our babysitter list – take advantage of it to take a night out.  We have many experienced babysitters waiting to help you out.
 
I look forward to seeing each of you at future events and please do not hesitate to drop me a note and with any ideas for events or any comments about the BJC at all.