A LETTER FROM RICK BLOOM,
PRESIDENT JCO BOARD OF DIRECTORS
October 2026
I’m juggling a lot of balls in the air
Much to be truly grateful for; no complaints.
Thank you for your patience while we work through the details of the Grant. All of the necessary county permits have been approved. We are on track with our submissions for reimbursements to the State. We are in the final preparation stages to break ground and installing our upgraded security equipment for mutual safety.
Our High Holy Days were amazing, bringing us all under one roof for the special time of year. Thank you again to Rabbi Lisa and cantorial soloist Mitzi for making them inspirational and uplifting.
I would like to take this opportunity to urge your support for two very important events this month. First, on Thursday, October 15 at 6 PM, CSI, The Community Security Initiative is coming to Ojai from The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles to train us in Community Awareness and Surviving Active Threats. This organization is fundamental to keeping the Jewish community safe throughout North America. These two important training modules will not only prepare us for any incident which may occur on our property, but will prepare all of us to be more aware of our surroundings as we move through the world. We must have a minimum of 15 people show up for these trainings or we won’t be able to ask them again. We will provide food and beverages, the training is dynamic and I really urge you to sign up here:
Our other major event is on Sunday, October 18 and it’s our JCO Multi-Family Yard Sale and Bake Sale to benefit our Torah School. There’s still time to bring your gently used goods to the pod on the north parking lot, which will generate income. Call 805-646-4464 and make arrangements for drop offs. We also need many hands on Saturday afternoon, October 17 to help sort and price what has been donated, as well as many helpers for Sunday, 8:00 am to 1:00 pm during the sale. Please reach out through info@ojaitemple.org if you can help.
I’ll be away from Ojai on business for a couple of weeks this month, however your very capable Vice President, Ryan Firestone and President Emerita Debe Bloom will keep an eye on the fort in my absence.
Wishing you a safe and healthy month ahead!
