Dear Friends,
By now you have all received the news that Cantor Anna West Ott is retiring and becoming our first Cantor Emerita. For over two decades, Cantor Ott has been putting her musical thumbprint on our congregation and has created a culture of music that has been simply outstanding. She has taught our students a love of Jewish music; she has brought in extraordinary ensembles that have added brilliantly to our worship serves; she had led and guided our incomparable choirs in incredible song. Even in the seven short years that I have been a part of our Temple family, I have seen a parade of unbelievable talent come through our doors thanks to Cantor Ott. It’s impossible to tabulate just how many people have had their souls changed for the better thanks to her being our Cantor.
Her retiring is bittersweet for all of us, myself included, but this coming year will be one of gratitude. This next year we will be commemorating our 160th anniversary. It will be a year of celebrating our community and also a year of celebrating the culture of music that Cantor Ott has helped instill in all of us. I am personally grateful to call Cantor Ott not only a colleague but also a friend. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner as I started my journey as your Senior Rabbi. I hope you will join us throughout the year as we celebrate the legacy of music that she has founded here at Anshe Emeth.
Cantor Ott: Chazak, Chazak, V’nitchazek, may you always go from strength to strength in all your endeavors.
Philip N. Bazeley
