Dear friends,
Our community's health is our highest priority. We wanted to let you know we are prepared for the continuing cold and flu season. We are washing our hands, sanitizing our surfaces, and doing everything possible to keep our building healthy. Hand sanitizer and tissues for coughs and sneezes are available in the lobby, offices, sanctuary, social hall, and the kitchen.
In addition, we continue to monitor communications from the Centers for Disease Control, as well as our various State and professional networks, to assure that we are continuing to apply best practices at the temple. As always, maintaining safety and congregant and staff health guides our actions.
We understand that Temple Shaari Emeth is a shared, communal space, and people of all ages - from the very young to the very old - gather here. Please help us and the community protect the vulnerable in our midst by taking the steps below:
Wash Hands Thoroughly
Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), and apply soap. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds - long enough to sing the Motzi or Happy Birthday.
Protect Others in Public Spaces: Cover Sneezes and Coughs
Use a disposable tissue to cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing - and importantly, throw that tissue out afterwards. If you don't have a tissue or paper towel handy, turn your head and sneeze into the crook of your elbow. Wash your hands after a sneeze or cough!
Take Food Safety Seriously
We love to share food as a community. Please do your part to prevent the spread of germs by always using a utensil (tongs, spoon, or serving fork) to serve yourself or others at an oneg, kiddush, or other event. Use a fresh plate if you take a little more food. Use a new cup every time you pour a drink, and do not share cups or eating utensils. Don't share cookies or bagels by breaking in half with your hands - please use a knife. Temple Shaari Emeth's disposable cups, plates, and utensils are biodegradable and our napkins are 100% recycled paper, 80+% recycled materials, or are made from sustainable material.
For the duration of cold and flu season, we will be using tongs to share our Shabbat challah, which, as always, is cut up prior with a knife.
Avoid shaking hands or kissing
An elbow bump and a friendly smile, and a sweet Shabbat Shalom deliver the same greeting.
Sick or not feeling well
Please stay home - it is better for you and everyone else.
If you have questions or concerns, or if any of our supplies need replenishment, please contact Stuart Brown , our Executive Director.
Rabbi Melinda Panken, Fabian Burstyn, Stuart Brown
