Presidents' Report

  In December, we held a Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE) course designed to help prepare in case of an active shooter situation and for other public acts of violence. The attendance and response of the membership was very positive. Members learned that it is imperative to get as far away as possible from the location of violence and only if not possible, then it is better to find cover. Only try to defend yourself as a last resort. Please watch emails for upcoming congregational meetings in late January or early February, on a Sunday afternoon, to summarize the active shooter training given by the EBPD and show how our new security system enhancements and procedures will be implemented and integrated with the CRASE objectives.

We have installed the electronic key combination lock on the front door of the synagogue. If you do not yet know the combination, please call the office; they will verify that you are a member and tell you the code. Please share it only with other members. If you know of non-members that need access (e.g. Mah Jongg, Israeli Dancing), please have them speak with the organizer of their activity who has been instructed by Steve Zeidwerg on how to share the information with their attendees. Please DO NOT send the code via email, as we know all emails are not secure. For those that prefer not to use electronic codes on Shabbat; the Rabbi approved a mechanical code combination lock on the outside door next to the bridal room. The code is the same as when it was on the front door. The security guard has been instructed not to let people in, as he does not know our members. Registration for personal codes and fingerprint access is forthcoming.

The Grand Pavilion project update: The Board of Directors has approved a dedicated bank account which has been opened. Actual work will not begin unless all funds are secured. Our first major donor has agreed to have the money go towards the architectural plans, structural engineer and permits as these are necessary to move forward. Rabbi Pivo has assembled a fundraising team consisting of four members. Watch for parlor meetings in the month of January.  Steve Zeidwerg, VP of Operations, has volunteered to run the project, while Hayley Migdal, Financial Secretary, will oversee the bank account. The Board of Directors will receive monthly reports on the progress.  This creates proper controls.

We will be holding a dinner in memory of Uziel Sason on Jan 25^th with a Sepharadi Shabbat catering and services. On Jan 26^th, Shabbat morning, we will honor Adela and Raymond Sasson on their retirement. On February 2^nd we will be saying an emotional thank you to Gale Dillman. Please join us in celebrating these individuals and their contributions to EBJC.

We are sixty 60 and Fabulous...We've Only Just Begun!

We will be honoring Rabbi Pivo and Cantor Larry, our dynamic duo that have invigorated EBJC and are propelling us forward to the next fantastic 60 years. Ad Mea V’Esrim (עד מאה ועשרים , until 120), live long and prosper.

Deena Oren

Eric Pelofsky

Co-Presidents