A Message from the Vaad

February 7, 2024 כ"ח שבט תשפ"ד

We would like to inform you that at around 11:00 p.m. last night, a fire broke out in the building which houses Jerusalem Pizza. The fire caused significant damage to Jerusalem Pizza and - to a lesser extent - China Lee. The cause of the fire is unknown and the police are investigating. Thankfully, the owner Shalom Cohen was not present at the time and no one was injured. However, both Jerusalem Pizza and China Lee will be closed for the time being. We are grateful to Shalom for the service he has provided to our community for many years, and we hope he will recover from this and come back stronger.

Many have responded with concern and asked what they could do for them at this time. When we posed this question to Yardena, she replied, "I just ask that people say a Perek of Tehillim for the Chayalim." We are humbled to be part of a community with such outstanding people, and we will update you accordingly with specific assistance that can be provided for the Cohens and their workers.

Hoping for Besuros Tovos,

Vaad Harabonim of Raritan Valley

Support Our Solders

Dear Etz Ahaim Community,

It has been something special to watch the incredible way the Jewish people have united with one another to support all of our brothers and sisters in Eretz Yisrael, our homeland, during this very hard time. While we may not be there physically, the amazing acts of chesed being done from here is outstanding, and clearly so appreciated by the soldiers and many families who have been displaced, lost loved ones, and suffered so much tragedy. We are writing to ask that we again come together to support a cause near and dear to our hearts.

Many of you can fondly remember our Chazan of many years, Raffi Ishran. He came for almost two decades to make our Tefilot (prayers) on Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur beautiful. Sadly, a few years ago one of his sons and daughter in law were the victims of an awful terrorist attack in Israel. Thankfully they survived, however they tragically lost their first baby, and both have lasting injuries.

Now, this same son, as well as his other children have been called back to duty and are fighting for our nation. Their unit, like many others do not have enough detrimental equipment (like bullet proof vests, and helmets) and are turning to us for help. If you are looking for an important cause, and way to help, this would most certainly be one!

We are asking that you please donate whatever you can to the cause. There is no amount too small. Because the equipment has to be purchased directly from the equipment company the army uses, we are working with Raffi to do so once we have collected all funds. Being that this is an urgent request, we ask that all donations are sent in by November 21nd. You can donate by:

  • Clicking the donate button below

  • Going to https://etzahaim.org/news/support-our-solders and clicking on the donate button on the bottom of the page.

  • Send a check made out to Etz Ahaim, with a memo for Vests and Helmets. The check can be dropped off in the Shul mailbox or mailed to 230 Denison Street, Highland Park.

For reference, each helmet costs $330.00 and each vest costs $870.00. Again, anything counts, and we are so grateful for your participation.

We are the strongest when we come together to make a difference. Am Yisrael Chai!

For any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to Ray Morris at president@etzahaim.or

NOTE: We have purchased the vests and helmets for Raffi Ishran’s son’s unit. Thank you for your support.