The companion photographs to Dr. Berkowitz's article about his experiences in India, featured in the January Bulletin, are now available here.

EMJC is collecting...

emergency supplies, such as
• bandages
• alcohol swabs
• candles
• flashlights w/batteries
• blankets
• tarps
• sleeping bags
• tents
• insect repellent
• detergent
• soap
• can openers
• over-the-counter medications (Tylenol, Imodium, antibiotic creams, &c)

foodstuffs, such as
• powdered milk
• canned meat
• tuna, sardines
• canned vegetables
• canned water
• rice
• beans
• pasta
• peanut butter

clothing
• new & used clothing for children, men & women
• any underwear & socks -- must be new (in packaging) and unused

money to support the relief effort is also needed.

There are many efforts in the US to aid victims of the terrible earthquake in Haiti. United Synagogue has created a Disaster Relief Fund for those who wish to help earthquake victims. To donate online, go to www.uscj.org/donate/relief. Other Jewish-based relief organizations include American Jewish World Service (www.ajws.org) and American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (www.jdc.org). Another way to help is to text "HAITI” to 90999. An instant $10 donation goes to the Red Cross. It is charged to your cell phone bill but your cell carrier keeps nothing -- 100% of your donation will go to the Red Cross.

Please bring your items to EMJC no later than Sunday, January 17.

A donations box will be in the main office. Friday office hours are 9-3; Sunday from 9-noon. We’ll also collect items at Saturday evening’s 7:30 pm Club Oasis concert.

Donations will go to Our Lady of Refuge Catholic Church to support their earthquake assistance efforts. OLR is working with large and well-known relief agencies. Checks for Haitian relief can also be made out to Our Lady of Refuge Church. Be aware they will not be able to give receipts.

We plan to deliver EMJC contributions to Our Lady of Refuge on Monday, Jan. 18

This Shabbat is one of the few throughout the year that is given a special name.

The day we read Parshat Beshalach is called Shabbat Shira (the Shabbat of Song), commemorating the glorious and awe-inspiring event when, after the miraculous deliverance from the Egyptians at the Red Sea, the Children of Israel simultaneously burst forth into a song of praise to God.

However, beyond giving praise to God for miraculously saving us, the concept of shira (song) has a far deeper significance in life.

If you have not been to Synagogue for a while, this Shabbat is a great time to get reacquainted.

Cantor Sam Levine has a remarkable line-up of musical treats for our collective enjoyment during and after the service, involving children of all ages and special guests.

Join us for a morning of community, worship and song.

Shabbat shalom,

Michael Sucher
President