Shalom everyone,
This newsletter message is being written with a very sad heart. We are all mourning our fellow Jews who were gunned down in horrible fashion in Pittsburgh. Being 2500 miles away does not lessen our sorrow. We think the world cannot get worse but it is happening before our very eyes. To read the story of those who died is heart-wrenching. As the massacre is indelibly written in our minds we must now concern ourselves with protecting Valley Beth Israel. Even before this happened one of our members who is a licensed security man has been coming to services on Saturday mornings to try to protect us in the unfathomable possibility that someone would try to do us harm. I've had other messages about keeping the synagogue doors closed during services. I will be briefed at a USCJ Security on-line discussion of ways we can inform and secure ourselves to these unspeakable acts of violence. As I get more information I will dispense it as quickly as possible. We must be vigilant in caring for each other.
That being said, let's get right to all the other important information that you need to know about what is happening in your synagogue. Please check the "Upcoming Events" flyer in this newsletter because now that November is here we are loaded with exciting programs for your enjoyment. Please invite your family and particularly your friends who may not be members of our synagogue to join you. As fundraisers it is important to attract as many people as possible from outside the temple.
The first event on the calendar is a joint "Variety Show" being co-sponsored by Valley Beth Israel and Panorama Presbyterian Church. Don't mistake this for a talent show; we have many professionals on the program: comedians, musicians, singers (both individuals and groups). So grab a friend and come on down to Valley Beth Israel on Sunday, November 4th . Lots of work has gone into the preparation for this event and I can assure you of a good time.
Next is the 24th annual Interfaith Service on Monday, November 19th at St. Genevieve Catholic Church, a little west of Woodman on Roscoe, at 7 p.m. The program is joint endeavor of three religious institutions: St. Genevieve Catholic Church, Panorama Presbyterian Church and Valley Beth Israel. It is always a very beautiful service.
Finally we will conclude November and begin December with two performances of an original play, The Chanukah Story, written by our very own Roger Cowan. The VBI troupe of players will keep you in stitches so be sure to get your tickets and join us for one of the shows. I think you will be totally entertained. Get on board and help VBI with its fundraisers.
As I reported last month VBI is going solar. The installation has begun and I'm looking forward to watching the progress. Another exciting thing for the synagogue is the leasing of a small plot of land on our grounds for the erection of a cellular tower. Paperwork is scheduled to be signed by the end of October (that's before this newsletter is printed). Keep VBI in your prayers. Help us move ahead by continuing to participate in our services and activities. Please attend our fundraisers.
Ron
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