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HEArtbeat of HEA: Financial Perspective

01/15/2021 07:30:29 AM

Jan15

HEArtbeat of HEA:

Financial Perspective

Sid Methner

HEA VP of Finance and Secretary

Board@HEAdenver.org

Those who know me are aware of this. I view the world as a glass half empty. I can’t tell you why, I just accept it. I have lost count the number of times professional peers referred to me as the proverbial wet blanket. I tend to offer pragmatic points of view on various topics. However, once in a while, something happens that shocks me and the world takes on a distinctly different hue. This is one of those times!

Each of us has endured various degrees of upended-ness since we began our journey through the pandemic. As I reflected on the HEA community over the recent secular holiday period, I noted some pretty remarkable things that have happened, some quite surprising.

Our congregation’s financial commitment has completely exceeded expectations during a very difficult period of time. Our membership is slightly ahead of our revised forecast, a pretty conservative forecast due to the economic uncertainty and challenge of operating almost fully remotely.

The response to our just completed 2020 Appeal was truly outstanding! We received over $100,000 in contributions from more than 130 donors representing a wide cross-section of our community, our staff and our lay leadership.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone that contributed and to our VP of Development, Lisa Soicher, who led our Appeal so masterfully.

Our staff stepped up their game since March, too. Our educators crafted online learning and social programs for our preschoolers, Hebrew school and adult education while our office staff adapted to remote operations and administration. These efforts were supported by a number of technological investments made over the past couple of years. The crowning effort was the implementation of a state-of-the-art live streaming capability that allowed for presentation of creative, spiritually uplifting and meaningful High Holiday services by our talented clergy and dedicated production team. Did you know our services were watched across the world?

A special thank you to our professional staff who executed their roles in an exemplary fashion while adjusting to salary reductions from July through October. In November, most of the staff were restored to full salary. We expect to achieve specific financial targets at the end of the fiscal year that will result in retroactive payments to the remainder of the staff. These have been big sacrifices on the part of our staff and deserving of our gratitude – thank you all, too!

So much of what happens at HEA is done by volunteers. The pandemic has allowed our volunteer corps to flourish in new ways. Elul in the Shul would not have been the success it was without a large compliment of volunteers to assist at all of the indoor and outdoor drive through sessions. Others delivered machzorim to congregants to follow our live streamed services. The HEA Greeter-Safety team has adapted to our reduced in-person prayer experiences while continuing to invest in additional training for the team to meet HEA’s future needs. Our committees, made up of volunteers, have continued to function effectively through virtual meeting platforms. The same is true of the Board of Directors, also all volunteers, who have maintained a monthly meeting schedule along with several special sessions during our pandemic experience. Even new initiatives are flourishing and expanding through the new and existing HEAConnect groups. If you want to become a volunteer, it just takes a phone call or an email to the HEA office.

Last month we received very good news related to our financial position. The Small Business Administration reviewed our application for forgiveness for our Payroll Protection Plan loan. We worked diligently to apply the funds as prescribed in the loan agreement and we have been granted full forgiveness for our loan. We received the cancelled note last week!

For the remainder of the fiscal year, the financial team will focus on the budget for the 2021–2022 fiscal year. Out of an abundance of caution, the budget will accommodate ongoing uncertainty about what activities can be conducted safely with respect to the pandemic. While we have greater confidence about the second half of the year (November onward), the first half may have ongoing considerations we want to plan for now. We want to do as much as we can within our financial constraints.

Also, as was the case last March, we’ll also be in the loan application process during budget formulation. Our elected leaders in Washington DC have provided another round of funding for the Payroll Protection Plan and we are in the process of determining if HEA qualifies for additional funding.

About my view of the world with my glass half empty – when I think about that half empty glass and HEA, it is not only full, it’s overflowing! That’s the right way to have a wet blanket, probably the only way it should ever get wet at all. We have a unique community at HEA and I am proud we all can count it as one of the aspects of our lives that has thrived during, in and through a of all things, a pandemic. We’ve done so together. But really, once is enough; I am sure you will agree. My hope is we will soon have the freedom to safely assemble for lots of HEA activities again, soon.

Shabbat Shalom!

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237
info@HEAdenver.org

www.HEAdenver.org

HEArtbeat of HEA: Tu B'Shevat & Spring Classes

01/08/2021 11:17:56 AM

Jan8

HEArtbeat of HEA:

Tu B'Shevat & Spring Classes

Shira Teed

Director of Engagement
(720) 390-4434
shira@HEAdenver.org

On behalf of all of the staff of HEA, I want to wish all of the HEA community a much better year in 2021. Given all of the turmoil in our country and abroad, there is even more reason to connect together as a community and feel a sense of belonging in the new year. As each day begins to get a little longer, we continue to move through the cycles of the year. Marking the holidays, even when we have to be physically apart to do so, remains a constant in our lives. We all know that as Jews, we don’t like to let too much time go by without a holiday to help us signify an event or season!

Next week begins the Hebrew month of Shevat, and with it Tu B’Shevat (the birthday of the trees). HEA is here to help us stay together, apart during this holiday which is a favorite of many.

We will celebrate with an evening of programs called Together for Tu B’Shevat on Saturday, January 23. This evening will have opportunities for individuals and families of all types to participate in fun, social, holiday-themed activities.

There's the Tu B'Shevat Family Havdalah at 6:00 p.m., a cooking competition, The Great Tu B'Shevat Chopped (Zoom) Challenge, at 6:30 p.m. And if you would rather create a beautiful Tu B'Shevat craft for your home, join our Tu B’Shevat Thankful Tree Craft project at 6:30 p.m. Click HERE to register and get all the details.

This month we are also launching our series of spring classes from our wonderful clergy that begin in January and will continue through Shavuot. Click HERE for details of all the classes and registration links.

The days when we can gather together whether in small groups or as a whole community are inching closer to us each day, as the days get longer, and the vaccine becomes more widely available. Before that day, HEA will continue to be here for you, supporting you albeit from a distance, that preserves the safety of us all. I for one cannot wait to welcome you all with a smile.

Shabbat Shalom!

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237
info@HEAdenver.org

www.HEAdenver.org

HEArtbeat of HEA: How Do We Keep the Light Shining?

12/18/2020 08:04:21 AM

Dec18

HEArtbeat of HEA:

How Do We Keep the Light Shining?

Cantor Arielle Green
(720) 390-4433
agreen@HEAdenver.org

All week I have been saying things along the lines of, “let’s find our light in the darkness.” But now that Hanukkah is over, I’m asking the question, “how do we keep the light shining?” How do we continue to see the miracles in our everyday lives even when things keep seeming so bleak?

As the vaccine has been rolling out this week, I am amazed by the kinds of social media posts I have seen. Doctors, nurses and chaplains alike have been posting about the miracle of Hanukkah and their faith in humanity to develop the vaccine. I wanted to quote a teacher of mine, Rabbi Mary Brett Koplen, a chaplain in a hospital in New York, who has been working with COVID-19 positive patients since we graduated together in May. She wrote, “As this miraculous week of Hanukkah comes to its end, I am thinking about how the miracle was not that the oil lasted forever, the miracle was that it lasted just long enough to get more, it provided just enough light to illuminate all the work there was left to do. The vaccine does not solve the pandemic. It does not fix the broken healthcare system. It does not provide heard immunity unless we say yes to it on mass. So say yes with me. And maybe together we can begin this long journey toward healing.”

Her positivity is infectious and a reminder to me and I hope to all of us that the light can continue to shine through these miracles.

In honor of this, I would love to share with you a song that I sang during our concert this past Saturday night with Eliana Light. This version of Al Hanissim, by Jacob Spike Krous, is a reminder of the miracles we have been given to get through the toughest of times.

Shabbat Shalom!

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237
info@HEAdenver.org

www.HEAdenver.org

HEArtbeat of HEA: Your Weekly Hug from the HEA

12/11/2020 08:21:49 AM

Dec11

HEArtbeat of HEA:

Your Weekly Hug from the HEA

Lynn Geller
Interim CEO
(720) 390-4424lynn@HEAdenver.org

Hanukkah Sameach! Please think of this HEArtbeat article as your Weekly Hug from the HEA!

I have received very kind emails and phone calls from many of you thanking me for stepping in while Laura is on leave. I am familiar with the HEA history, know many HEA members and the staff and a little about the operations from the many lay leadership positions I’ve held over the past 10 years. I now know that being a staff person is a totally different experience and fulfilling in so many ways.

The staff and I miss Laura’s smile and happy disposition but I am glad I can help out so she can focus on her treatments and staying strong. During this first month as a staff member, I have learned so much. Most importantly, I am reminded that every person who works at the HEA cares deeply about all of our members, the Preschool families, the Religious School participants and parents, the B’nai Mitzvah families, young families, single members, baby boomers and our elder members. Every day as I talk to the staff, they are working to keep our members engaged, involved, notified of activities, questions answered about yahrzeits and simchas, prepared for Shabbat services and we wish we could do all this in person.

I really like working with the innovators on the staff. This starts with the clergy who are already thinking about how we can celebrate holidays together in 2021. They are planning for the spring/summer outside events and very hopeful that a vaccine against COVID-19 will be readily available before the High Holidays. Cantor Green is setting a framework for music infusion for the Preschool, Religious School and for adult education and even for activities in 2022! Shira Teed is very focused on Hanukkah for the next Eight Miraculous Nights but is already getting us excited about Tu B’Shevat, Purim, Passover and beyond. Rebecca Paradis and the Preschool staff are planning for the 2021-22 school year while keeping things running smoothly for our current adorable toddlers. Sherry Grinsteiner sees what has been possible over Zoom for the Religious School and with electives for Art, Music and Theater, the students get to be creative, and hands on, like they haven’t been before. There are Youth Activities for 3rd through 12th graders, along with Mensch Academy with interesting events many times each month. Lastly, if you have been attending Shabbat services via streaming over the past 2 months you’ve seen many B’nai Mitzvahs. Jenn Zucker has helped every family prepare for these important days. While these simchas have been different than any of the families or 13 year-olds imagined, each one has been special and well organized thanks to Jenn.

Please be sure to join us tomorrow via streaming on YouTube or our website to celebrate Micah and Hannah Gruenwald’s B’nai Mitzvah. On a personal note, when our daughter Jessica became a Bat Mitzvah on July 12, 2008, Micah and Hannah were 6 months old, Koby (z”l) was 3 years old and Rabbi and Melanie Gruenwald had just moved to Denver. The Gellers have so enjoyed watching the twins grow up.

I have tried to help you picture a lot of fun, inspiring, and community-building activities we can look forward to in 2021 and beyond. I want to be able to give all who want one, A BIG HUG. We miss being together so let’s make the most of Hanukkah this year online with our fellow congregants. Let’s keep the candles burning bright.

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237
info@HEAdenver.org

www.HEAdenver.org

HEArtbeat of HEA: A Great Miracle is Happening

12/04/2020 08:57:57 AM

Dec4

HEArtbeat of HEA:

A Great Miracle is Happening

Rabbi Bruce Dollin
Senior Rabbi
(720) 390-4431rabbi@HEAdenver.org

In a Presidential Debate, then candidate Joe Biden mentioned that we are in for a long dark winter. He was of course referring to the fact that the Coronavirus will spread quickly through the winter and that we should redouble our efforts to wear masks, social distance, and to be particularly careful for the next several months. His words resonated with me, as all our winters are dark, as night comes so early in the day, pandemic or not. If you walk down your street sometime after Thanksgiving and before the New Year, you will likely see many houses lit up with Christmas lights. There are three Jewish households on our block, and it is always interesting to see the Christmas homes lit up and our homes are dark. Except for eight important days.

So we Jews do make light in December, through the burning of candles on the Hanukkah menorah. There is something miraculous about lighting a candle during a dark season of the year. In fact, it is significant that lighting even the smallest candle will pierce the greatest and all-encompassing darkness.

Our Rabbis tell us, that there was, in fact, a dark period in Jewish history when the Syrian Greek Antiochus and his army persecuted the Jews who were then in the Land of Israel. This story is a long one having to do with intensely religious Jews (the family of Judah Maccabee) and with the geopolitics of the anger and violence between the Syrians and Egyptians. But the Rabbis were concerned about one issue in particular. Does God attend to the suffering of the Jewish people? And the answer, of course, is “yes.” We read in the special prayer we recite during Hanukkah, “We thank You (God), for the miraculous deliverance, for the heroism and for the triumph of our ancestors from ancient days until our time.” According to this prayer, even the military victory was a Divine miracle. Even the strength of Judah’s army is attributed to God. And then of course, the final miracle. The light of the Menorah in the Holy and Holies, that should have lasted only one day in fact lasted eight days. In that sense, God, intervening in human history to save the Jewish People, created a light to pierce darkness. Indeed, we say on the dreydle, “nes gadol hayah sham,” a great miracle happened there.”

For my family each year for Hanukkah, we pull out a box of Hanukkah ritual items. We put several Hanukkah menorahs (one for each member of the family) on the living room table, spill out a hundred candles, turn out the lights and light away. We all say blessings about God's strength and miraculous intervention in our lives. We will have three of our four kids around that table this year, which is unusual for kids (I should probably say, “young adults”) who have lived all over the country. Usually then, the miracle of technology zooms us all together to light together.

In this time of pandemic, it is wise to remain in your own family “pod.” So prop up your computers and iPads and smart phones to get together with family and friends in a safe way this year. And as we celebrate with some relief that most of our family members are safe, we can think of miracles both in our past and in our present. We hope and pray for another miracle, that those who are ill will recover soon. And perhaps the greatest miracle of all this year, the hope of a widely distributed vaccine to keep us healthy and let us emerge from our homes and be together as a community once again (perhaps this summer?). Then we should say that a great miracle happened there and is happening here and happening all around the world.

We wish you all a Happy Hanukkah and only good things, blessings and good health for the new year to come. From our family to yours, may we see each other in person again soon.

Chag Orim Sameach,

Rabbi, Tammy, Yoni, Shai, Kivi, and Aviva Dollin

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237
info@HEAdenver.org

www.HEAdenver.org

HEArtbeat of HEA: Hanukkah at HEA

11/27/2020 09:06:59 AM

Nov27

HEArtbeat of HEA: Hanukkah at HEA

Shira Teed
Director of Engagement
(720) 390-4426 shira@HEAdenver.org

Thanksgiving has come and gone, and with it yet another holiday where we have had to adjust our expectations to meet our current reality. The good news is that over the past nine months we have learned a great deal about how we gather, and new ways in which we can connect. With that in mind, we are heading into the winter holiday season, and all that the light of Hanukkah can bring to our lives.

Did you know that Hanukkah starts early this year? We light the first candle on Thursday, December 10. This Hanukkah, like other holidays of 2020 will continue to be virtual, and while we desperately want to throw one of our signature Hanukkah celebrations, we know that this is not the year. In fact, this year, we intend to take the general sentiment of the winter holiday season to heart, and do what we can to care for others. That means staying home and celebrating differently by bringing the warmth and light into our homes, physically apart.

Hanukkah at HEA might be different this year, but it will be special! Just because we will not be in close proximity does not mean we can’t celebrate together and connect as a community virtually. In addition to all of the classes offered by our clergy throughout the month of Kislev, which you can register for HERE, we will be offering programming each night called, HEA Eight Miraculous Nights! Along with an HEA family, Cantor Green will lead us in nightly candle lightings, so no one has to light the hanukkiah alone. Following the lighting, there will be opportunities for everyone in our community to connect through virtual programs. So join us for any night that work for your family or maybe all of the nights. We have brought in some really special guests from around the country to help us celebrate, and we can’t wait to see you there. Below you will find the lineup for Eight Miraculous Nights, and you can sign up to participate in any night you want.

___________________________________________________________

HEA Eight Miraculous Nights will connect the synagogue together during a time of social distancing with many opportunities to celebrate the holiday of Hanukkah.

Thursday, December 10, 6:30 p.m. (grade school-focused)
Night 1: The Great Dreidel Spin-Off Every Jewish boy and girl is certain that they spin the dreidel best. Let's see your skills, tricks and tips. Join us for a short Hanukkah kick- off complete with candle lighting and dreidel fun. This evening will be enjoyed by kids of all ages, but mostly those in grades K-5.

Friday, December 11, 6:00 p.m. (community-focused)
Night 2: Azamra Hanukkah
A special Friday night Azamra service for Hanukkah lead by Rabbi Gruenwald and Cantor Green. We will have candles lit ahead of time for Shabbat.

Saturday, December 12, 7:00 p.m. (community-focused)
Night 3: Hanukkah Concert Experience with Eliana Light and Cantor Arielle Green Cantor Green will lead this family friendly but not family-focused concert with
accomplished singer/songwriter Eliana Light.

Sunday, December 13, 6:30 p.m. (adult-focused)
Night 4: Hanukkah Virtual Game Night We have partnered with www.virtualgamenight.live who will provide a hosted virtual game night experience complete with comedian host, Ollie Robinson.

Monday, December 14, 6:30 p.m. (family-focused)
Night 5: Menorah Competition
Families are tasked with building a menorah. On this night on Zoom, registered entries will have 30 seconds to explain their creation, and the clergy will use 1-10 score cards to judge their creations. The winner will get a prize.

Tuesday, December 15, 6:30 p.m. (adult-focused)
Night 6: Part 3 of Rabbi Dollin’s class, Making Light in a Dark Time
Using Jewish wisdom, Rabbi Dollin will discuss what Judaism has to say about this time of tribulation and what we can do to bring light to our lives.

Wednesday, December 16, 6:30 p.m. (family-focused)
Night 7: Hanukkah Story Time with Sylvia Rouss
Famed author Sylvia Rouss of the Sammy the Spider series will host a story time and Q & A session. Sylvia will be reading two Hanukkah books: Sammy Spider’s First Hanukkah and The Hanukkah Fable of Little Dreidel and Silver Menorah.

Thursday, December 17, 6:30 p.m. (adult-focused)
Night 8: Community L’Chaim and Candle Lighting Led by Rabbi Dollin who will give us a community L’Chaim.

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat of HEA: Music on the Website

11/20/2020 12:31:03 PM

Nov20

HEArtbeat of HEA: Music on the Website

Cantor Arielle Green

As the winter begins to approach us, it is time to start thinking about our next season--the festival of lights. This is the time of year where we put our chanukiahs in our window sills, eat latkes and sufganiyot, and play a good game of dreidel. In many ways, we can continue to celebrate Hanukkah in the same ways we would in other years. I know that I will be wearing my Hanukkah socks very soon!

For me, the music is what makes Hanukkah special. It reminds us to create a world of light in the darkness, to believe in miracles, and to spend time with those we love. Music can bring us together in a time when we are all so far apart. Because of this, I am creating a page on the website dedicated to music.

Currently there is a page for Hanukkah, but each season the page will be updated with new, contemporary music for you all to listen to and learn. For this season, I have also included a song sheet with lyrics to the old and new songs for you to use to create song sessions with your families at home. My hope is that we can continue to learn and create music together no matter where we are.

The new music page will also include resources for learning services and instructions for b’nai mitzvah students. The goals are that all of your Jewish music needs will be met in one easy-to-find place. This will be an ever-evolving page, filled with these resources plus my own personal favorite melodies. As we know, music is a central part of Jewish ritual and tradition and my hope is that we can all use this resource as a chance to find some more light in our lives.

Shabbat Shalom,
Cantor Arielle Green

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat of HEA: Azamra

11/13/2020 03:03:19 PM

Nov13

HEArtbeat of HEA: Azamra

Rabbi Salomon Gruenwald

What do you think of Azamra?
Whether you’ve participated in our new online Friday night service or not, we would like to hear your thoughts and opinions. Please spare a few minutes to take a brief survey to help us better serve the needs of our congregation.

Click HERE TO TAKE THE SURVEY BY NOVEMBER 20
And read below to learn more about Azamra and what we hope to learn.

Can you really pray “virtually”?
What does it mean to “attend” Shabbat services in the age of pandemic? As we look ahead to what could perhaps be several months more of social distancing, I wonder how people are engaging with prayer and synagogue community from home. And, given the limiting circumstances, how can HEA best serve the spiritual needs of our community?

The term “virtual reality” is one of those modern oxymoronic perversions of the English language (so is Social Distancing). If something is “virtual” it is attempting to approximate reality, but it is not real. Technology has yet to come anywhere close to reproducing the fullness of the human experience.

It seems to me that there are two distinct ways that we can think about experiences like communal prayer online. One way is to broadcast the worship services we hold in the synagogue and invite people to imagine themselves at shul. We are essentially saying, “Pretend that you are here in this room with us and imagine that other people are here too.” We asked people to get dressed for shul, give their attention over to the service as they might when sitting in the pews, follow along in a prayerbook, rise and sit when told, etc.

But what happens if people don’t do those things? What if they are watching services on their phone while drinking their coffee in bed or leafing through the newspaper? An alternative approach might be to say, “Pretend that we – the rabbis and the cantor – are there with you in your home.” Rather than imagining the people coming to shul, we can try to bring shul to the people. What’s the difference and how might we present services to achieve this fiction in a convincing and meaningful way that takes into account how people really experience life in their own homes?

With these questions in mind, HEA started an experimental service for Friday nights called Azamra. The original idea was to broadcast it from my home with an intimate and casual feel. We had to move the production back to the synagogue for technical and Covid safety reasons, but we’re still trying to achieve that homey feel. Featuring the beautiful voice and presence of Cantor Arielle Green, the service is designed to offer music to usher in and enhance the way you choose to celebrate Shabbat at home.

Having now presented the service for several weeks, it’s time to take stock. If you’ve experienced the service, we’d love to know how you’ve engaged and what it has done for you. If you haven’t yet seen Azamra, we’d really like to know why as well.

Please take a little time to answer some questions so that we can better serve your needs and the needs of a community in these most unusual times.

Please click on THIS LINK to take the survey by November 20, and thank you for your candor.

We invite you to join us every Friday evening at 6:00 p.m. on the HEA YouTube Channel. To learn more about Azamra and how to access the service, please visit www.headenver.org/azamra.

Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Gruenwald

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat of HEA: Just Breathe

11/06/2020 07:22:41 AM

Nov6

HEArtbeat of HEA: Just Breathe

Tammy Dollin

I had no idea how restorative a walk around the block could be! I tried chocolate chip cookies (that left me with a few extra calories), I tried cleaning the house (that left me with a sore back), I tried working (unable to concentrate), so I decided to walk outside and just breathe. No phone, no catching up on calls, no distracting music, just walk and breathe.

Breathe. Feeling the warmth of the shining sun. Breathe. Noticing the colorful leaves clinging to the branches before dropping to the earth for winter. Breathe. Taking in the expanse of the deep blue sky we are so fortunate to enjoy regularly in Colorado. Breathe. Nodding to a neighbor. Breathe. Checking on a neighborhood chalk sign to see what it read today – ‘Count every vote’. Breathe. Appreciating the 70-degree weather in November. Breathe.

I noticed my breath slow down a bit. I felt calmer. The world did not end on election night. My kids are still texting silly things to one another. Today I choose to let gratitude in and let go of carrying the world on my shoulders.
I am grateful for my family, the way we watch out for one another, support each other, and make each other laugh.

I am grateful for my Jewish values, traditions and rituals that remind me I am connected to a people and a past that carries me today and helps me craft a future for my children and for their children.

I am grateful for this synagogue community, which has been our spiritual and communal home for the last quarter century.

I am grateful for meaningful work that encourages people to contribute after-lifetime (legacy) gifts to Jewish organizations, so we can continue to show up for one another in good times and bad.

I am grateful that I can breathe deeply and access excellent medical care when I need it.

Take some time this Shabbat to go outside and just breathe. Slow breath in, slow breath out. Repeat. And again. Send healing thoughts to those who need it. And may we live each day from a place of abundance.

Shabbat Shalom!

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat: Celebrate Shabbat with HEA

10/23/2020 03:02:16 PM

Oct23

HEArtbeat: Celebrate Shabbat with HEA

Rabbi Salomon Gruenwald,

Associate Rabbi

Shabbat is our spiritual anchor, reminding us that we are human beings, not human doings. Prayer bridges our minds and hearts together through music and mindfulness. HEA offers a wide variety of Friday night and Shabbat morning experiences for anyone seeking a calm harbor in these stormy times. We invite you to join us online or, in limited numbers, in person. This message summarizes our Shabbat offerings and updates HEA’s in-person attendance policies in light of recent mandates from the city and state.

Friday Nights – Erev Shabbat

All Friday night services are remote. No in-person attendance.

Traditional Minyan
Fridays at candle lighting time on Zoom (Click HERE for more info)
Unabridged mincha, Kabbalat Shabbat, and maariv services led by Rabbi Dollin.

Azamra – I Will Sing.
Friday at 6:00 p.m.on YouTube. (Click HERE for more info)
Invite Cantor Green and Rabbi Gruenwald into your home to welcome in Shabbat with music, blessings, and a bit of Torah to bring to your Shabbat at home.

Shabbat Morning
HEA offers two livestream options for Shacharit: Shir Hadash and our Traditional Service. The two services come together in the sanctuary for Torah reading and Musaf. See below for information about limited in-person attendance.

Traditional Shacharit
Live from the Sanctuary
Saturdays, 9:30 – 10:15 am on YouTube (Click HERE for more info)

Shir Hadash Shacharit
Live from the Social Hall
Saturdays at 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. on YouTube (Click HERE for more info)

Combined Torah Reading and Musaf
10:15 – 11:30 a.m. on YouTube

Tot Shabbat Musical Service for Preschool Families (Starting November 14)
2nd Saturday of the month at 9:00 a.m. on Zoom (Click HERE for more info)

Kiddish & Kibbitz Weekly Parsha Study with Rabbi Gruenwald (Resuming October 24)
Saturdays, 1:00 p.m. on Zoom (Click HERE for more info)
Enjoy your lunch and have a l’chaim with Rabbi Gruenwald over an in-depth discussion of the coming week’s Torah portion through traditional and contemporary commentaries.

In Person Saturday Morning Attendance:
In compliance with recently revised state and local public health guidance, HEA urges our members to participate in services remotely from home, especially those at higher risk for Covid. In-person attendance on Shabbat morning will remain available for up to 30 individuals under the following policy set by our reopening committee:

- 10 individuals for the Traditional Service
- 10 individuals for Shir Hadash (including Davenning Team leaders)
- 10 individuals who are mourners or observing yahrzeit.

For b'nai mitzvah, the family will be given priority for their guests, with 5 spaces available to mourners and those observing yahrzeit.

To register for in person attendance, please contact CEO Laura Intfen at Laura@HEAdenver.org. (Registration is closed for this week).

If you suspect that you may have recently been exposed to coronavirus or have had any symptoms associated with Covid, you may not attend in-person services. Policies are subject to change.

Shabbat Shalom!

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat: An In-person, Socially-distanced, HEA Get-together

10/16/2020 12:30:54 PM

Oct16

HEArtbeat:

An In-person, Socially-distanced, HEA Get-together

Bruce Likoff,

VP Long Range Planning

So Good to See You!

I used to say that when I’d see my HEA friends at Shul or out and about. I was sincere when I said it, but now I realize just how good it felt to be surrounded by friends. Now I know better. Now we all know better.

Realizing just how much these connections mean to me and others I’ve spoken with, was the catalyst for a group of HEA Board members (listed below) to organize a couple of safe, socially-distant opportunities for us to see each other in-person. Nothing elaborate. No agenda per se… just a chance to gather, “check-in” and catch up. No need to RSVP—just drop by and hopefully enjoy some gorgeous Colorado weather at one of two centrally located Denver area parks. Many of us have stayed in touch with a small circle or “pod” of people, but it’s apparent we feel the need to reach out to others while keeping safe physical distance.This longing can be addressed with the meet ups we’ve planned for you. Their casual nature will provide a low barrier for those newer to our community or more reserved. Just come! Be together with us. Definitely wear your mask and bring a chair if you can. No food will be served and we’ll have plenty of sanitizer on hand. Not to worry—there won’t be any hand shaking or fist bumps!

By meeting outdoors, we can all control our personal space. Kids are most welcome as is everyone who is healthy and well (if you think you’ve been exposed to the virus, kindly stay home!).

Rabbi Dollin, Rabbi Gruenwald and Cantor Green all plan to attend. If you haven’t yet met the Cantor or HEA’s fantastic CEO, Laura Intfen, we hope you’ll stop by to say hello. The entire team at HEA is missing our synagogue family and can’t wait to connect.

Here’s the schedule:
Sunday, October 25, 3:00-5:00 p.m. Centennial Park 13050 E Peakview Ave, (off Arapahoe) in Centennial.
Sunday, November 1, 3:00-5:00 p.m. Crestmoor Park 99 S Monaco Pkwy (Cedar Ave off Monaco) in Denver.

Bring your mask. Bring your lawn chair. Bring your best eye smile. Come early, come late (but not too late). It truly will be so “good to see you.”

On behalf of our planning committee listed below, I wish you a Shabbat Shalom,

Bruce Likoff, VP Long Range Planning
Lynn Geller, Immediate Past President
Mona Jacobson, VP Membership
Ceci Lowinger
Rob Novick
Lisa Soicher, VP Development
Elena Veta r exact times).

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEAConnect Group Sign-ups are Live!

10/14/2020 06:17:29 PM

Oct14

Hebrew Educational Alliance

Now that the high holidays are over, how are we going to stay connected?

HEAConnect is opening up new groups for you to sign up for beginning today!

What is HEAConnect?
HEAConnect Groups are regular gatherings of five to fifteen members in people’s homes, offices, and other places that promote relationship building. During this sensitive time, groups are welcome to begin virtually.

They are led by HEAConnect Group Leaders. Some HEAConnect Groups will connect around common interests and affinities. Other groups will gather to discuss topics of deep concern or importance to their lives. All will engage in meaningful conversations and learning through curriculum provided by HEA.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat of the Azamra: A New Musical Remote Friday Night Service

10/09/2020 03:22:30 PM

Oct9

HEArtbeat of the Azamra:

A New Musical Remote Friday Night Service

Rabbi Salomon Gruenwald

Announcing Azamra –

A New Musical Remote Friday Night Service from HEA
Fridays, starting October 16

On Friday nights we traditionally sing “Shalom Aleichem” to welcome the angels and guests into our home. The Midrash teaches that when the angels see a house that is prepared for Shabbat, they bless us and gift us an extra portion of neshama (soul/spirit). What a beautiful image to hold as we bring in Shabbat.

Starting on Friday night, October 16, HEA will begin offering a new weekly musical Kabbalat Shabbat service at 6:00 p.m. Led by Rabbi Gruenwald and Cantor Green playing guitar, Azamra will be an engaging and intimate 30-40 minute spirited service designed for all ages. In the time of pandemic, we cannot visit one another physically, but through the magic of technology we can come right into your living room or kitchen. Come sing with us and start your Shabbat at home with song, candles and blessings.

Azamra will be an addition to HEA’s traditional Kabbalat Shabbat service, which will be led by Rabbi Dollin. Starting October 16 and throughout the winter months, the traditional service will start at the time of Shabbat candle lighting (check our website for exact times).

Traditional Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat
Led By: Rabbi Dollin
When: Candle Lighting Time during the winter and 6:00 p.m. during Daylight Savings Time.
(See HEAdenver.org for candle lighting times)
Where: Zoom

Azamra
Led By: Rabbi Gruenwald and Cantor Green
When: 6:00 p.m. year-round
(See HEAdenver.org for candle lighting times)
Where: Livestream

IMPORTANT INFO REGARDING TOMORROW'S LIVESTREAMS
As you all know, Shir Hadash has made a triumphant return to Shabbat mornings at HEA and now we have two concurrent services. And although this week's Shir Hadash service had been advertised as taking place in the Sanctuary, Shir Hadash will be in the Social Hall. Please refer to our Livestream page for links and instructions for both services. Also, if you're generally one who watches the services from their computer and not a smarphone or smart tv, then just visit our home page and press play after 9:30 a.m. on either service streams embedded into the page, just below the photo slideshow, under Livestreaming Services.

Shabbat Shalom!

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat of the HEA: Fall Holiday Celebrations

10/02/2020 02:01:17 PM

Oct2

HEArtbeat of the HEA:

The HEArt of Fall Holidays

From Shira Teed, HEA Director of Engagement

Fall Holidays are coming quickly.

Sukkot and Simchat Torah are festive holidays. Here are some ways for you to enjoy them with your HEA community-COVID safe!

1) We have three Sukkahs this year. The pop up sukkah in the parking lot and the one in the GYC parking lot are open for you to use. Why not meet your High Holy Day Pod there for a picnic? The sukkah in back of the building is open for your use during office hours.

2) Join us for our Sukkah Drive thru on Thursday evening, October 8th.
When you come, bring back your Machzors* AND bring store bought, individually wrapped shelf stable snack items for our Tikkun Olam small group to distribute to Denver's homeless population. Our clergy and staff will be there to greet you and wish you a "Chag Sameach". Shake the Lulav and get a Sukkot treat. So many mitzvot in one program! Details are in the flyer below.

3) Meet up in the Thomas Jefferson High School parking lot for some Erev Simchat Torah jubilation at our Drive-In celebration. Live music led by Cantor Green and celebrating Torah with the Rabbis and your community will be the focus of the evening.   Details are in the flyer below.

Registration is required for both of these events and space is limited. All present COVID protocols will be in place. Here are the links to register:

Register HERE for the Sukkah Drive-Thru
Register HERE for Simchat Torah

*If you cannot attend our Sukkah Drive thru, feel free to bring your Machzors back to HEA anytime during office hours. We are set up with a cart and sign in sheet outside of our lower parking lot door.

Shabbat Shalom!

____________________________________________________________________

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat of the HEA: The HEArt of Shabbat Shuvah

09/25/2020 09:04:49 AM

Sep25

HEArtbeat of the HEA:

The HEArt of Shabbat Shuvah

Sherry Grinsteiner

HEA Director of Education

Shabbat Shuvah. Shabbat of Return.

I am writing this with a tumultuous heart. I know this is a new year and we should be filled with joy and excitement, but honestly, I just don’t feel it this year. Much like with t’shuvah, where the first step is an acknowledgment of the wrong that was done, I think that the first step for healing is with an acknowledgment of the fear and worry we feel. So, in the spirit of the High Holy Days that call for self-reflection and for personal honesty–I will do just that; I am writing with a tumultuous heart because I struggle with the changes that this pandemic forced upon us. We are living in crazy times with too many changes in the world, in our country and in our own community. The uncertainties only exacerbate the stress and the sense of being ‘lost’. Our Sages should have taught:
Too many changes – דיינוit would have been enough.
Too many changes, too fast – באמת דיינוit should have been enough.
Too many changes, too fast, with too many uncertainties – ממש דיינו now this is really enough!

Of the many changes I could write about, I will reflect on two: Although I will remain in my primary role of Director of Education, tomorrow will be my last Shabbat in the role of Ritual Director. This is bittersweet. Bitter, because I love what I was doing. Sweet, because I will now have more time for my studies. This is my last semester with Aleph Ordination Program, and God willing, I will receive my s’micha (ordination) this coming January. The five-year long, awaited, dreamed about, special ceremony with my family, friends and colleagues, will now be celebrated on Zoom…

Of course, I continually remined myself to think of all that I am grateful for, that this might be a blessing in disguise and to ‘make lemonade out of lemons’. But with the really significant losses in our lives, when the confusion, hurt and disappointment is so deep, these words just don’t cut it. Like an empty Hallmark cliché, they are not enough to move us from where we are to where we want to be. Covid, work-stress, riots, divisive politics – even if we know that these are the causes for the way we feel, it still does not alleviate the feeling itself.

There are two concepts at the essence of Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and the days in between: T’shuvah and S’lichah. The word t’shuvah תשובהis mostly translated as repentance and return, but it also means an answer. The word s'licha סליחה is translated as forgiveness. We don’t usually mention freedom of choice as a relevant concept for these holy days. But isn’t it at the core of it all? Being granted freedom of choice by the creator is why we are able to go astray to begin with, and it is this freedom of choice that allows us to repent. With no choice, there is no need for Yom Kippur as a day of atonement at all.

So what is the t’shuvah, the answer, for those of us feeling a sense of loss and confusion in these crazy times?

For me, it is knowing that no matter what, I still have the choice. Knowing that it is within me to reclaim, to return to a place of inner holiness where the still small voice is stronger than the wind, earthquake and fire* of the world around us.

And so, on the heels of Rosh Hashanah,
I choose Malchuyot – I choose to believe in, and embrace God’s everlasting love
I choose Zichronot – I choose to remember that there is always goodness waiting to happen
I choose Shofarot – I choose to sound my own call for hope and wholeness

In anticipation of Yom Kippur, I choose Forgiveness. Forgiveness for the lost potential, forgiveness for what could have been, forgiveness for all that was missed.

I choose to fight this tumultuousness by opening my heart to genuine forgiveness, renewed hope, the goodness of man, and God’s love.

I want to express my profound gratitude to all of you who always answered the call for Torah reading, Haftarah chanting and T’filah leading. It is you who make this congregation the great place it is! A special thank you to Fred Karp, Albert Banker, Ken Saliman, and Jonathan Defez, my ‘go-to’ guys.

To the Rabbis, Cantor, Laura and our board - בהצלחה, much success and prosperity as you navigate this ship in these uncharted waters.

To the students and families of HEART K-12 Education, may we learn to open our hearts to all that is good and right.

For the rest of us, may it be Shanah Tovah and may we all merit G’mar Chatimah Tovah.

Shabbat Shalom!

____________________________________________________________________

* 1 Kings 19:11-13

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat of the HEA: The HEArt of Our Voices

08/28/2020 05:38:21 PM

Aug28

HEArtbeat of the HEA:

The HEArt of Our Voices

We are happy to share this sneak peek of the HEArt of our HHD music.

“Every Jew is a singer before Him, and every letter in the Torah is a musical note” Nathan b. Naphtali Herz

https://youtu.be/eUD8rruJ6BE

Shabbat Shalom,
Laura Intfen
HEA CEO

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat of the HEA: The HEArt of Creating Your Prayer Pod for High Holy Days

08/21/2020 05:39:53 PM

Aug21

HEArtbeat of the HEA:

The HEArt of Creating Your Prayer Pod for High Holy Days

It ‘s almost Shabbat, but some of the HEA staff, including the clergy want to share with you this “how to” video on creating a prayer pod for the upcoming Holy Days. Enjoy!

Shabbat Shalom,
Laura Intfen
HEA CEO

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat of the HEA: The HEArt of Making Lemonade

08/07/2020 09:40:58 AM

Aug7

HEArtbeat of the HEA: The HEArt of Making Lemonade

As the saying goes...

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade!

Having recently accepted a position on HEA’s Executive Committee, I had reason to think more about what our synagogue means to me and the value it brings to our family. Or should I say, re-think. For us, the HEA has always been our “go-to” for worship, learning, friendship, community service, support, and more.

But recently, immersed in the twin pandemics of COVID-19 and systemic racism, I’ve experienced a deeper sense of vulnerability and powerlessness, along with the “givens” of sadness, fear, and anger I imagine that everyone’s feeling. I usually spring into action mode in times of extreme need or crisis but the pandemic(s) and the implications around them felt too overwhelming to tackle as an individual. And then it became apparent to me all that HEA is (and can be) for all of us. It’s a portal to convene, support, and respond to those in need. As Engagement Director Shira Teed and her team of more than 45 HEA volunteers did when they reached out to every member of the congregation to “check-in”. It’s a “family” of lay and clergy there to help process and tackle the big stuff like job loss/economic insecurity, mental health challenges and the special stressors felt especially by those on the frontlines fighting the virus as our rabbis demonstrated through counseling congregants and holding support groups for healthcare workers.

Being part of HEA means an opportunity to be part of a larger, more collective voice for which to share views about what is and what should be in the Jewish and greater community, as Rabbi Gruenwald did when he and others went to the Capitol to stand in solidarity with those speaking out about the indignities and injustice black people in America experience.

The HEA is more than our building on S. Ivanhoe. When we “lean in”, it can make us feel whole and connected in times when the world around us feels like its rupturing. It’s where all of us can be inspired by timeless Jewish wisdom and the generous actions of others to bring goodness and a bit of healing when we let it.

HEA is our network. Tapping into it helps us realize and appreciate even with all the illness, sadness, and disappointment borne of the coronavirus, there have been some pretty beautiful moments too.

Member Cindy Altberger, a volunteer with JEWISHcolorado, shopping for essentials to be donated to Jewish Family Service. Since the onset of COVID-19, there’s been a 400% increase in demand at their Weinberg Food Pantry.

Twelve-year-old Hannah Gruenwald created dozens of beautiful, personalized cards to send to some of HEA’s older and unwell members.

To stay connected with our young families and make it possible for them to still enjoy some of the customs of Lag B’omer, HEA offered s’mores kits like this one fired up by Joel, Noah, and Rose Asrael.

That’s Hannah Kutnick, daughter of members Carla and Jay, sitting in a sea of 500 backpacks filled with school supplies ready to be donated to students in need. This is Hannah’s fourth year managing this incredible project!

Earlier this summer, the Grove family courageously spoke to the congregation about their painful experiences dealing with racism and specifically, what it’s like to be Jews of color in our community. What felt like incredibly shocking revelations to many of us on the Zoom call, has led to the creation of an HEA task force to address the deep divide and other issues preventing us from being an authentically welcoming and fully inclusive community.

The Grove Family: Winston, Yaacov, Yossi and Jami.

The Davis Family has been volunteering with Meals on Wheels, doing home deliveries for almost a year now. But with the onset of the Coronavirus, they’ve added another mitzvah: filling boxes with food to be picked up by clients of Jewish Family Service and others in need. If you’d like to volunteer with JFS, email volunteer@jewishfamilyservice.org, or to learn about opportunities to help via HEA, contact HEA Engagement Director, Shira Teed at shira@HEAdenver.org.

Seth, Bonnie, Aviva, and Brendan Davis.

On July 12th, sixty cyclists, including many from our HEA community, joined Micah Gruenwald and his Wheels of Justice team riding in memory of his brother Koby z”l and in support of pediatric cancer research and families facing cancer.

Although the in-person Courage Classic was canceled, Micah powered through, creating his own route Tour de Koby, with stops at places important to Koby and the Gruenwald family. To date, he’s raised an incredible $30,436!.

I’m certain others in the HEA family are doing things, great and small, to bring a little happiness or ease the burden of those around them. Many of us draw comfort and motivation from your efforts. Please share what you or those around you are doing by emailing shira@HEAdenver.org. With your permission, we’ll compile and share it on our website in our HEA Kvell Book.

If you or someone in your family needs some encouragement, connection, or other support, let us know that too by calling the office at (303) 758-9400.

Shabbat Shalom,
Lisa Soicher
HEA VP, Development

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat of the HEA: The HEArt of Numbers

07/31/2020 08:03:43 AM

Jul31

Hebrew Educational Alliance

HEArtbeat of the HEA: The HEArt of Numbers

NUMBERS. What comes to mind when you think of numbers? Is it the book of the Torah that we completed reading two weeks ago? What about the late 2000’s TV crime drama, Numb3rs? Would it be the Apple doppelganger of Microsoft Excel? For me, it is none of these. I have been focused on HEA’s numbers for months.

Last winter, when “pandemic” was merely a dictionary entry, I worked with Ken Saliman, CEO Laura Intfen, and my most favorite bookkeeper ever, Leah Marcus preparing the budget for the fiscal year, 2020 – 2021. Behind the scenes, Laura collaborated with department directors. Presenting that budget with Laura to the HEA Finance Committee was a humbling experience. Updates followed and a balanced budget was reviewed with and approved by the HEA Board of Directors on February 25th.

Some 36 hours later, I flew to Washington DC for the AIPAC Policy Conference, feeling pretty good about those numbers and one of the earliest budget approvals by the Board in recent HEA history. My joy and sense of accomplishment were short-lived.

Far more significant than any policy-related activity was the hand sanitizing stations in the Washington Convention Center every 15 feet. The additions of admonitions at the end of EVERY breakout session to WASH YOUR HANDS, OFTEN; AVOID SHAKING HANDS and WE DISCOURAGE HUGGING! In retrospect given these protocols, we accept as “normal” today, this was ironic because the 18,000 of us present were packed in rooms like sardines and even more so during egress from the general assembly gatherings. By the end of the first day, I had a sinking feeling, the budget—those numbers—were hurtling quickly toward a major overhaul. This virus thing was going to become a lot more serious than most expected.

Shortly after I returned home, Laura, Seth Davis, and I discussed radical budget revisions—new numbers. In mid-March, everything shut down and the Board was notified we’d meet virtually to approve an amended budget in late April, right before the new fiscal year start May 1st.

In the midst of the budget update, our bank invited us to apply for a Payroll Protection Program (PPP) loan. This required far more detailed sets of different numbers. (Another shout out here to Leah for her huge contribution.) Our application for $300,000+ was approved. The funds allowed us to keep ALL of our teachers employed through the end of the school year. In the absence of these funds, teachers would have been furloughed. Our goal was to prevent that!

There have been 15 changes to the PPP program so far some of which have made it easier to use all of the loaned amount. This loan is completely forgivable (meaning no repayment is required) provided a long list of criteria are met. I am confident we will meet them, and yes, that process requires even more numbers…

I believe all of us are confronted on a very personal level with the same unanswered questions punctuated by this one: how can you plan (and in the HEA case, budget) for anything when there are so many unknowns? The answer, not easily. However, assumptions can be made based on the best information available. At the April board meeting three different scenarios were evaluated and the “Afikomen”, the middle budget, was selected. Many revised numbers.

While the PPP funds help us meet our budget targets, the approved budget includes temporary salary reductions for our professional staff and clergy ranging from 3% to 10%. We made this difficult choice and took action to reduce expenses sooner rather than later and were supported by those affected. We felt better about this approach than imposing even more severe reductions later in the year if our projections are wrong. If we exceed the budget targets in our mid-year review, we hope to remove these salary reductions! Our goal is to make that happen.

Each of YOU can help HEA with our numbers and I extend a personal invitation for that purpose. First and foremost, please show your appreciation to our staff, every single person. These folks are our community’s essential workers and first responders! A simple and kind thank you goes a huge distance and will be rewarded with a masked smile.

Undoubtedly everyone has made some financial sacrifices due to the pandemic. I have, too. Our community relies on membership dues and tuition payments for our Preschool and Religious School programs along with your various donations to fund our budget. Your payments are part of the numbers I have been discussing here today and a sincere thank you for your efforts to continue your financial support at this extraordinary time.

Consider upgrading to a Plus Membership, which provides benefits, potential tax deductions and credits, and discounts for various HEA programs and educational offerings. Laura would be happy to discuss those with you. Longer time horizon? Explore participation in HEA’s Life and Legacy™ program, which Lynn Geller heads and featured recently in this column.

I would never ask anything of you that I have not done myself. Full disclosure, I have been a Plus Member for a number of years and committed to the Life and Legacy™ program through gifting in my will. I believe in investing in this Jewish community. Sometimes there are more important things than NUMBERS, like restoring our professional staff and clergy to their full salaries later this year!

Let’s make that happen—our staff IS our most important HEA community asset. Their well-being should be among our highest priorities and objectives today. I hope you agree and we can count on your continued support; it makes OUR NUMBERS better.

Our new fiscal year is off to a promising start as we tackle these challenges the way the HEA community always has!

Thank you and Shabbat Shalom,

Sid Methner
HEA VP, Finance

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Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat of the HEA: The HEArt of the Future

07/24/2020 09:01:36 AM

Jul24

Hebrew Educational Alliance

HEArtbeat of the HEA: The HEArt of the Future

In my role as VP of Long Range Planning I get to embrace two of my passions, looking at the big picture and the future (strategic planning) and sweating the details (governance). It makes me feel incredibly connected to the HEA and gives me a strong sense of purpose and meaning in my volunteer efforts.

For me, the big picture is all about making each of you feel more connected to the HEA and to each other. There are many ways to do this, but, for this column, I want to talk about HEA Connect, the small group initiative that has recently been launched. These are small groups initiated and led by congregants, with support from Shira Teed, our Director of Engagement. The point of these groups is to allow you to connect and grow with others in the congregation that share your interests or affinities. If you are passionate about animal rights, learning about wine or exotic cuisines, combating racism, Jewish history, supporting our veterans and first responders, aging in place, Broadway shows, opera or almost anything else, or if you want to connect with others who live near you, this is your opportunity to form a HEA Connect group to pursue and enjoy that passion. Or, perhaps you want to connect with others to share and learn about parenting techniques and resources (or grandparenting!). Once we hear from you, we’ll let the congregation know about your interest and give you an opportunity to tell the congregation about your idea to see who else might share your interest. Please contact me or Shira to let us know what group you’d like to form.

My role concerning governance involves the Bylaws and policies of the synagogue (hence, my reference earlier to focusing on details), as well as recruitment of new Board and committee members, and leadership training opportunities for the Board. In a sense, the Bylaws are the constitution of the synagogue. The Board updates the Bylaws from time to time to respond to the changing needs of the congregation, but only after thoughtful consideration. I wish we had done this sooner, but it’s important to me and our leadership team that you have access to our current Bylaws, which you can find HERE.

At the HEArt of everything the clergy, the staff and lay leaders do is YOU. You are the owners of this congregation; we are simply the stewards until the next generation succeeds us.

I am so proud to be a member of this congregation. I am also proud to be part of a leadership team that is constantly looking for different and better ways to get you engaged. I would love to hear your thoughts on why you feel engaged at the HEA or what it would take to make you more engaged.

Shabbat Shalom,
Bruce Likoff

VP of Long Range Planning

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat of the HEA: The HEArt of Our Membership

07/17/2020 09:01:13 AM

Jul17

Hebrew Educational Alliance

HEArtbeat of the HEA: The HEArt of Our Membership

In July 2011, Scott, Shira, and I moved to Denver after spending three years in Houston and previously 10 years in Los Angeles. We started shul shopping right after arriving since finding a synagogue was important to us. Our criteria for finding a synagogue was not just a place where we felt comfortable davening but also a place where we were part of a community. Fast forward nine years later, our family feels an integral part of HEA, and I am now embarking on my new role as VP of membership. It is quite an interesting time to be taking on this role and several people have “wished me luck” since with the current situation being “in charge” of membership could be a daunting task. Instead of viewing this as daunting or a challenge, I look forward to giving back to HEA and being part of moving the synagogue ahead during a tumultuous time.

For me, membership is much more than just paying dues. It is being connected to HEA, having a sense of belonging, and knowing you have a community behind you. I am approaching my work as VP of membership keeping these key points in mind. I have assembled a membership committee that represents all the diverse demographics of the HEA community. This committee will be involved with developing policies/procedures around membership along with focusing on the traditional membership committee tasks of retention, integration, and recruitment.

As we have moved from in-person interactions to virtual meetings and services, we have an opportunity to consider models to ensure everyone feels engaged and part of the HEA community. Judaism is built on community and being together. How can we translate our need for togetherness into different arenas that may not always be in a physical space?

One way is to expand our personal relationships and engagement with each other. HEA has started HEAConnect; small groups that have common interests and affinities. This initiative is led by Shira Teed, HEA Director of Engagement. Shira is doing a tremendous job actively working on starting seven new groups in addition to supporting three groups already in existence. If you are interested in participating, please reach out to Shira Teed for more details.
The High Holidays are quickly approaching and there will be additional opportunities for engagement during that time. Starting toward the end of August, there will be a new exciting program called Elul in the Shul. More details on the specifics of this program will be disseminated in the coming weeks. This program will be a wonderful opportunity to connect with the Rabbis and Cantor along with providing tools to heighten your High Holiday experience in these unsettled times.

Scott and I chose wisely 10 years ago, and we truly feel blessed to be part of such a warm, caring, and supportive community. I feel strongly in ensuring the success of HEA and I am committed to being actively involved in not just maintaining membership numbers but in having engaged, involved members.

Please feel free to contact me with your thoughts. I welcome your input, feedback, and comments regarding membership.

Shabbat Shalom,
Mona Jacobson

VP of Membership

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat of the HEA: The HEArt of the HEA President

07/10/2020 08:45:03 AM

Jul10

Hebrew Educational Alliance

HEArtbeat of the HEA: The HEArt of the HEA President

What happens when days both blend together and yet seem to fly by? Our past four months of pandemic living have raised this question for me quite regularly. Looking forward to a vaccine and/or other treatments and imagining a return to a new normal (whatever it may be) make up many of my thoughts.

The first part of HEA’s new normal begins next week as Cantor Arielle Green officially joins our synagogue community. Her charm, strength, creativity, and talent will all be welcome additions. While we can all expect her to begin enhancing our worship services and finding ways to infuse more Jewish music in our days, we also have to be realistic about how far and fast her net can be cast. For most of our community, she will be connecting with us only virtually in the early going–no matter how creative we are with services and programming.

One of our unique features as a synagogue has been our two minyanim–the traditional service and Shir Hadash. As we have worked through the logistics of safely re-opening our building over the past three weeks under CDC guidelines, we have only been able to have one type of service. Our plan in the coming weeks is to once again resume concurrent Shir Hadash and traditional services, and we are working through what the plan looks like now. We know our community wants and needs both of these connections and look forward to bringing that back later this month.

High Holidays are just over three months away, and planning is well underway. You may not know it, but HEA was the first of the main Denver synagogues to reopen our doors for in-person Shabbat morning services, and we are planning for in-person and virtual High Holiday service options to meet needs of as much of our community as possible. We are being flexible with the planning of different options because of the virus, but firm in our goals of creating meaningful services and high-quality experiences for even remote attendees. Many thanks to Jeff Greenstein for his dedication to helping us livestream each week, as well as developing long-term livestreaming solutions for our building.

For the past couple of years, you may have heard about HEA’s strategic plan. The pandemic has altered the course of these plans, as it has most everything. Yet, under the direction of Bruce Likoff, our VP of Long Range Planning, lay leaders and clergy are embarking on near-term creative efforts around new programming and ways to connect with each other. The CDC guidelines recommend smaller group settings in the near-term. Stay tuned as we look to enhance our programming opportunities in the coming weeks.

For now, I am thrilled that we have the ability to come back into our beautiful building. Our Reopening Advisory Committee has implemented protocols and procedures to facilitate this opening with safety in mind for our clergy, staff, and community. Although it does feel strange seeing everyone in masks, the warmth of our community is still vibrant. We are lucky to have such a huge amount of space to spread out and feel very safe. If you feel like this is a healthy option for you, I encourage you to sign up for the weekly lottery.

Shabbat Shalom,

Seth Davis

HEA President

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat of the HEA: The HEArt of the Cantor

06/26/2020 08:53:38 AM

Jun26

Hebrew Educational Alliance

HEArtbeat of the HEA: The HEArt of the Cantor

A few months ago, my house in suburban Virginia became a place of worship. Each room now represents a different service, depending on the setup necessary. The bedroom is the daily minyan chapel, the living room is the Shabbat bima and the dining room table is a gathering space for havdalah. I start every service with a little laugh to myself because my computer sits on a stack of books, with a mic set up and all of my materials in front of me. It constantly surprises me how different our lives are, and yet how normal this routine has become for me.

Because of this new normal, it has become harder and harder to see these spaces as spiritual given the overlap with my everyday life. Before, I needed the separation of being in a synagogue to bring me into a space that was outside of my norm. Walking into a beautiful building with a decorated ark brought me a sense of comfort and was a reminder to think and feel differently than I do for the rest of the week.

But now, after a few months, I’ve begun to see and feel that our homes and our everyday lives can be just as spiritual and full of prayer as any building or synagogue. On Saturday mornings, as I lead services from my Shabbat bima, I can hear my family sing along to the Livestream downstairs. At first, the lag time on zoom caught me off guard, but after a few weeks, it became so clear to me that even though this crazy world we find ourselves in today, we can still be a part of our amazing communities wherever we are. While being back in the buildings we know and love will be a wonderful reunion, I am glad to be reminded that the physical space does not define our communities.

With all of that being said, I am beyond excited to start my drive west to Denver, and to arrive at a new place, a new building and a new community at HEA! Thank you all for being such a welcoming community already, and I look forward to building relationships with you, with or without walls.

Shabbat Shalom,

Cantor Arielle Green

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat of the HEA: The HEArt of a Legacy

06/19/2020 09:11:15 AM

Jun19

Hebrew Educational Alliance

HEArtbeat of the HEA: The HEArt of a Legacy

With our HEA building closed for 3 months, what do you miss most?

Who do you wish you could visit with over kiddush?

Is there a shul friend with whom you have been longing to connect?

Are you experiencing a little spiritual homelessness?

If you have felt a little disconnected, you are not alone. Many of us are even grieving a bit the disruption to the routines and rituals that enhance and bring meaning to our lives as Jews. In-person morning minyanim, being with others for learning opportunities, kibitzing with the rabbis, Kabbalat Shabbatot… and so much more we’ve had to sacrifice for our health and well-being.

Sometimes we do not realize what we are missing, or how much value it holds until it is taken from us. It is in these moments we realize the lengths we would go to protect and preserve that which we value.

Our dedicated and creative HEA staff and clergy have done an exceptional job of pivoting our programming and worship to a virtual platform. Cooking demos, high-quality Torah learning opportunities, and virtual sederim. They have worked tirelessly to provide our children in the Preschool and Religious School with “the next best thing to being there” alternatives to make life feel as normal as possible for them.

It is because of all we could not experience that we have come to more deeply appreciate that the HEA Preschool is up and running again this week, albeit in a limited way for everyone’s safety. The happy voices of 3-year olds could be heard throughout the building making the parents and grandparents of these youngsters so appreciate the HEA can once again provide this loving, Jewish environment. Another proud moment for HEA families occurred a couple of weeks ago when our 5th-grade Religious School students shared how they felt receiving their own Siddurim (prayer books).

Here are a few of the heartwarming comments we heard:

“Receiving my Siddur made me a very proud Jew…made me feel on top of the world.”

“I feel closer to Judaism by having my very own Siddur.”

“I am excited to have my Siddur because it gives me a chance to learn on my own at home and with my family.”

I heard these comments while watching Shabbat services on my computer on YouTube. I am beyond grateful for the hidden blessing in the Covid crisis: the blessing of realizing what truly matters to me. The blessing of being part of a community that is so special, that when taken away in a physical way, makes me understand how much I need it.

Please think about the importance of protecting what we have. We face vulnerability when we do not take steps to ensure our future. We all have a role and we can ALL help, regardless of our means. Please, speak with those closest to you about the importance of the HEA to you. Share with them what you value. Take steps so those values are what they remember about you long after you are gone. Consider designating the HEA as a percentage beneficiary of your life insurance policy or retirement account. Think about including the synagogue in your Will or Trust. There are lots of options to explore. I would love to explain them over Zoom coffee or on the phone. Please call the synagogue and they’ll give you my cell number, or email me at lynngeller19@gmail.com.

Please join my husband Bill and me, and the 50+ other families who have included the Hebrew Educational Alliance in their estate plans.

Shabbat Shalom,

Lynn Geller
Chair, HEA Live On | LIFE & LEGACY (TM)

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat of the HEA: Rabbi Dollin

06/12/2020 04:15:30 PM

Jun12

Hebrew Educational Alliance

HEArtbeat of the HEA: Rabbi Dollin

We read in the Talmud in the name of Shmuel, “One should never take oneself out of the community” (Berachot 49b). In Pirke Avot we hear the same in the name of Hillel, “don’t separate oneself from the collective (2:4).

I didn’t realize the toll on me of sheltering in place until I ventured out a bit this week going into the office. It was great sitting at my desk but what I had really missed was interacting with our staff in person. We all had masks on and stayed 6 feet apart, but none-the-less, it was great. The Jewish Community is a face-to-face community. Others’ physical presence is in normal circumstances required. Never in my lifetime have I made a minyan online. Our Shabbat services online, very important to us, limits the clergy and davening team to see each other in little boxes on Zoom, and for those tuning in on YouTube, we can’t see you at all.

In our family, our son Shai who is now working in the hospital comes over (with his fiancée, Rebecca) for Shabbat dinner in a mask. And we eat outside to stay even more distant from each other than we would be in our dining room. When we bless our children (Vivi is in our house working remotely), we usually look into their faces, hands on their heads. Not now. This is all difficult and I hope it will be over soon.

As we learn more about the virus and pay attention to recommendations coming out of the Governor’s Office, we are looking forward to being together in shul, as soon as next Shabbat (June 20, Parasha Shlach). The Parasha next Shabbat, interestingly enough, speaks of 10 spies, one from each tribe venturing out into the Promised Land to look for a new home. We will read from that Parasha from the Bema next week.

We are going to be very careful. Those who come in person will need masks on and will sit distant from one another. Clergy and leaders will have masks on as well and will stay away from each other on the Bema. We will start small and see how it goes. More information will be forthcoming next Tuesday about signing up to come to the sanctuary for Shabbat morning services. We will not be ready to take sign ups until next week. Please be patient with us as we limit the numbers and build slowly. Our overriding concern is keeping you and your family safe. And, of course, all of this can change if there is a spike in infections and the Governor comes out with new requirements. We want to see you in person! Let’s take it slow, learn, and find a way to daven together in the sanctuary.

Jews need to be together. We cannot be separated from the synagogue community. We look forward to next week. Hopefully, we can see you soon.

L'shalom,

Rabbi Bruce Dollin
rabbi@HEAdenver.org

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat of the HEA: Reopening Update

06/05/2020 04:01:28 PM

Jun5

Hebrew Educational Alliance

HEArtbeat of the HEA: Reopening Update

An early Shabbat shalom to you,

Since we first began responding and adapting to the COVID virus in March, decisions at the HEA have been driven by Jewish values and the safety and health of our members, our staff and our community. As we step into a new normal planning for our reopening, the drivers of the decisions that we are making have not changed.

Our Reopening Advisory Committee has mapped out the first Phase of reopening HEA. This committee has thoughtfully and carefully planned out this first step. All procedures are based on the latest information received from the state of Colorado, the city of Denver and the CDC. While our building is open to staff, all visitors to the building must have an appointment and abide by the regulations found in the Phase 1 plan. You can find that plan HERE.

Our clergy has been making tough decisions regarding worship services. While we continue to livestream our daily minyan and Shabbat services, the pull to come together is strong. Here are some updates on what the committee and staff are working on:

Our Reopening Advisory Committee will be in their cars in our parking lot next Friday evening as we experiment with an outdoor/drive in Kabbalat Shabbat service. This service will be livestreamed also.
Our Cantor’s arrival in mid-July will coincide with our first “in sanctuary” Shabbat morning worship as the rabbis and Cantor Green take to the bimah on July 18 with the davening team present in the pews.
We are getting close to welcoming congregants back through our doors and hope to have a plan and procedures to communicate in a couple of weeks.

These small but positive steps will require using outdoor worship spaces (like the sukkah and our front lawn), limiting attendees, signup sheets, rest room and elevator limitations, signage and directional tape on the floor to prepare the building for physical distancing, personal hygiene and building cleanliness.

Part of the reopening process is up to YOU. You will have to make your own decisions on attendance based on your comfort level, your vulnerability to the virus, your travel history and your contact history. Research surrounding the virus has confirmed the higher risks groups of individuals over 65 years of age and/or with underlying health conditions including diabetes, overweight, or immune deficiencies or other chronic health conditions. It is strongly recommended that anyone fitting any of those descriptions stay home and watch us on our livestream.

As the Advisory Committee continues to meet, a Phase 2 plan will be created within the next week and I encourage you to keep up with the latest news through our emails and on our website. Along with Phase 2 policies, the summer will bring more information on:

A safe, but meaningful High Holy Days for our entire community.
An experiential Religious School road map using both in class and virtual platforms.
Small groups meeting online, or in the beautiful outdoors that our state offers.
Adult education offerings using a variety of medians.
The continuation of Chesed check in calls for our members requesting weekly connections.

HEA Preschool is opening on Monday, June 15 for camp with limited enrollment. Our preschool team is moving forward, in partnership with the families of our students to offer a safe and secure environment within our walls. With thoughtful and consistent precautions, the laughter of children will be filling our halls once again soon.

We are all well-aware of the various struggles during these difficult times as we manage through the COVID-19 crisis. While saddened by daily reminders of lives lost and the impact both domestically and internationally, we are gratified to know that we are part of such a strong and supportive community here at HEA. The spirituality and continued bond of our membership is crucial as we strive to navigate the re-opening process in as safe and compliant a manner as possible.

Programming Note: Tomorrow (June 6) at noon, following our Shabbat service, join Rabbi Gruenwald and Rabbi Dollin for an important Kiddush and Kibbutz, with special guests, HEA members Winston and Jami Grove. They will be facilitating a discussion and sharing stories based on their family experiences as Jewish African Americans living in our world today. There is a different zoom connect for this program which can be found on the website or in the weekly HEA email.

With anticipation of being together soon,
Laura Intfen
CEO

DONATIONS

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat of the HEA: Rabbi Gruenwald

05/28/2020 04:16:05 PM

May28

Hebrew Educational Alliance

Friday, May 29, 10:00 a.m. - Shavuot I
Click HERE for services

> Siddur Lev Shalem for Shabbat & Festivals

Saturday, May 30, 10:00 a.m. - Shabbat & Shavuot Ii
Click HERE for services

> Yizkor Book
> Siddur Lev Shalem for Shabbat & Festivals

Community-wide Shavuot Celebration
Thursday, May 28, 5:00 p.m.
Friday, May 29, 12:30 a.m.
The password to access the page where you will find the Zoom links is Shavuot2020

HEArtbeat of the HEA: Rabbi Gruenwald

Jewish Choices

Every year on Shavuot, we read a beautiful story that celebrates the loyalty of a young Moabite widow Ruth who chooses to follow her Israelite mother-in-law Naomi and join the Jewish people. Given the choice to return to her own clan or stay with Naomi, Ruth famously declares, “Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16).

The Book of Ruth is read on Shavuot for a number of reasons. The story is set during this time of year when the grain is harvested in the land of Israel. Ruth also holds a special place in Jewish history because she was the great-grandmother of King David. But, more significantly to Shavuot, Ruth’s story represents the loyalty and commitment to Torah and Judaism that we are to experience on this holiday. Every year on Shavuot, we relive the experience of receiving Torah on Mount Sinai and reaffirm our commitment to its teachings. It is interesting that our Sages chose Ruth to serve as the paradigm for that loyalty.

Ruth is a convert, a “Jew-by-choice.” Her declaration of loyalty is the model of what it means to accept Judaism. Living in a free country presents us with a wonderful and nearly infinite array of choices about how to live our lives and how to spend our time. For most American Jews today, practicing the religion of Judaism and being connected to the Jewish community is not a given, they are a choice. For synagogues and other Jewish communal institutions, this new reality can be scary. It means we have to offer more value and a compelling reason to choose Judaism. And, for Jews who care about Judaism, it means making a greater effort to live Jewishly.

At the HEA we are working as hard as ever to offer meaningful and interesting Jewish experiences and a place for Jews to connect with one another. The coronavirus pandemic is pushing HEA to be more creative within the boundaries of what is safe. We continue to offer compelling adult and youth learning opportunities online. We are caring for our congregants individually and creating opportunities for people to connect with one another. And we gather remotely through online worship. We hope to soon take steps to convene our community in person, in accordance with public health guidelines.

HEA is a hub of Jewish activity and a warm and welcoming community. We continually strive to offer compelling reasons to participate in the legacy of our people. During this season of Shavuot, we are reminded by the Biblical Ruth that being Jewish and participating in the community is a choice we all must make. We are grateful that you’ve chosen to make HEA your community. As we look to the future with courage and optimism, we invite you to continue making that choice each day.

Hag Sameach – Have a joyous Shavuot holiday,

Rabbi Salomon Gruenwald

DONATIONS

Hebrew Educational Alliance
3600 South Ivanhoe Street
Denver, CO 80237

HEArtbeat of the HEA Board President

05/22/2020 09:30:36 AM

May22

Hebrew Educational Alliance

HEArtbeat of the HEA Board President

"Hope is a good thing, maybe best of things and no good thing ever dies."

- Andy Dufresne in the movie The Shawshank Redemption (one of my all-time favorites).

It is the simplest things lately that give me hope. It’s old fashioned fun from my youth that I see making comebacks, like sidewalk chalk and family puzzles. It’s trying new things I never tried before, and learning new skills and new things about myself. I have made a shortlist of examples that have brought these small joys to my family.

Seth – Learned to bake challah and now loves doing this every Friday, often with my daughter.
Bonnie – Planned and pulled off a surprise 50th Zoom birthday party for my sister in Florida.
Aviva (11) – Gained skills and confidence on her bike and never wants to be away from it.
Brendan (15) – Learned to drive on almost deserted roads (highways too).

We dream of things we miss. We talk about what is next, and what will change, and what we just don’t know. I suspect you are all doing the same. We realize the shutdown and economic challenges have slowed our lives, and yet we also have come to understand we must push forward and live amidst the reality.

As we have watched many businesses around town begin to re-open, it raises understandable questions about when HEA can do the same. Here are answers to questions we are commonly hearing from our members.

When will HEA reopen for services and preschool?
HEA has a re-opening committee working hard on ensuring we have the protocols and safety plans in place to return to our building. We are hoping to be back within a month, with limits to the number of people allowed in the building. It will look different, just like everything else looks different. The value of pekuach nefesh (preserving life) is hugely important in our plans and more updates will be coming your way as plans are finalized.

The preschool’s reopening has different factors, based on the CDC’s stringent guidelines for what will be allowed. We are currently targeting a modified summer session both online and in-person, now that the traditional school year is complete.

When HEA reopens will there still be live streaming (video)?
The word streaming is a part of our lexicon now. Our offerings have grown tremendously in the months of shutdown, and will continue to evolve. When we reopen our building, HEA will continue to bring services, programming, and connection to our members through live streaming. We are working on an upgraded streaming solution that will be integrated with our sound system, and will likely include connections with our chapel, sanctuary, and GYC.

Will HEA have in-person services for the High Holidays?
We hope so, but it is too early to know what the CDC and state requirements will be on the maximum gathering size come late September. We are making plans as if services will be held in person and working through logistical changes to maintain social distancing rules, if necessary. Additionally, we are also working through plans to be as creative as possible, and offer as much remote connection for members that may not be ready or able to join in-person. We’ll also be prepared for alternatives if we are not allowed to complete our High Holiday worship in-person.

HEA was a recipient of a PPP (Paycheck Protection Program) loan from the Small Business Association. Why did we apply?
The Federal government realized early on the pandemic’s stay-at-home orders were likely to have a dramatic economic impact. To try and limit the burden on the unemployment system and to keep employees working, they created a program to incentivize employers to not lay off their most important asset--employees. As a religious non-profit, HEA’s employees do not receive traditional unemployment benefits if they were furloughed or laid off.

We have begun to see the impact on our membership from the economic fallout. Additionally, we have seen Preschool revenues dropped by more than 75% between February and May 2020, even as we have continued to offer daily remote classes, storytime, and other weekly programming for the families.

This loan is more like a grant, and we expect it will be forgiven by the Federal Government this summer.

Is HEA in a good financial position to make it through this pandemic?
YES! Though frankly, we know many for-profit and non-profit organizations will be challenged to survive. HEA has always prudently managed our finances, including that we had no debt coming into the pandemic. Additionally, HEA entered the month of May 2020 with our endowment intact and operating funds to help us navigate the times ahead.

With unemployment rates skyrocketing, HEA has been and will continue to be meaningfully impacted by COVID-19. We are working hard on detailed plans to adjust our budget to match our projected reductions in revenue. The Rabbis and our CEO have stepped up to support our shul by reducing their compensation while we continue to adjust to our smaller budget.

Your support is incredibly important to our ongoing success, and we can’t tell you how much you all keep us energized about our mission of inspiring lives of meaning. Our history of 92 years and our committed members will bring a “new normal” of continued strength in the “little joys” of life, the tough moments when we lean on each other, and the big simchas to come.

Shabbat Shalom,

Seth Davis, HEA President

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