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June 30, 2020
To the Beth Israel Congregation:
Phase One of returning to Beth Israel’s core, that of holding daily and Shabbat minyanim began on May 28.   As stated in the congregational letter of May 22, the hope is to continually expand as experts advise it is safe to do so.  The plan for a slow, safe, and limited opening is continuing.

The decision has been made to now ease into Phase Two.  Below are the updated parameters related to attendance at services.  The items that have changed from Phase One are in bold print.
1.    Daily minyan, Shabbat, and holiday services will be limited to less than 25 people.
2.    The chapel is closed to everyone but Beth Israel staff and clergy.
3.    The kitchen is closed to everyone but Beth Israel staff and clergy.
4.    The social hall is closed to everyone but Beth Israel staff and clergy.
5.    Our experts recommend the following people do not attend services:
a.    Children 13 years of age and younger not recommended.  Children 13 years of age and younger may attend minyan, Shabbat, and holiday services beginning June 27.  They must remain with a parent at all times.
b.    those 70 years of age and over
c.    persons with compromised immune systems
d.    persons who have had a surgery within the last 
six months
e.    attendance is not recommended for those who have an immediate family member in their household who are at risk if infected
6.    If you have traveled outside of Douglas or Sarpy County within the last 14 days
7.    People will be required to sit six feet away from each other at all times. Seat locations will be marked and assigned.
8.    Everyone will be required to properly wear masks, at all times, while attending minyan, Shabbat or holiday services. 
9.    The Torah will be taken out, read, lifted, and aliyot be done by the same person.
10.    Everyone is to bring his/her own siddur and tallisim.  A siddur or tallit may also be borrowed from the shul and must then be taken home.
11.    Seats and davening spots will be sanitized daily.
12.    People will be allowed to daven however congregating or learning together before or after minyan will not be allowed.
13.    There will not be a kiddush after Shabbat or holiday services.
In all decisions, the health and safety of our congregants and community continues to be paramount. The potential consequences of not following the rules set forth above may result in the synagogue’s closure to prevent the jeopardizing of people’s health.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.  These are unprecedented times and we know our Beth Israel family will continue to support one another and will grow from strength to strength. If you have any questions regarding minyan, please feel free to contact Rabbi Ari or Jeff Kirshenbam.

Sincerely,
Rabbi Ari Dembitzer, Senior Rabbi
Jeff Kirshenbaum, President

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