Dear Friends,

Given increasing attacks – like the stabbing outside the Jewish Center on Tisha b’Av, and the assault at Central Synagogue last Friday – American Jews are on edge. Ansche Chesed’s professional and lay leadership have been appropriately attentive to synagogue security over the last months. 

Here are some important notes:

You may remember that earlier this year we experimented with a metal detector in the 100th Street doorway. That worked well in some ways but not in others. We are now trying again in a different format. We have placed a metal detector outside the shul on the ramp to the 100th Street entrance. When you come to that door, please do not use the steps, but come up the ramp. This will remain in place for two weeks, and we will re-evaluate, as we prepare for the High Holidays. 

If you have Halakhic concerns about walking through a metal detector on Shabbat or holidays, please speak to me before Shabbat.

We know all this is an adjustment for synagogue attendees. Thank you for being patient and cooperative with our Welcoming and Aware team and our Global Security guards. 

Here are two additional ways to ease your entry to AC.

Please bring as few bags as possible.

Please wear your Ansche Chesed name badge. It’s awkward for both parties when one of our volunteer greeters does not recognize a long-time member or regular attender. If you wear your name badge, that will likely make things smoother. If you want a new name badge, please write Josh Ashley in the office. 

I wish you all a sweet, healthy, happy and especially peaceful and safe Shana Tova.

Warmest wishes,

Jeremy