Friends,
In light of the news of the ongoing situation in Israel, and the resulting incidents world-wide, many Jews are feeling scared and vulnerable. Please rest assured that now, as always, our priority is the safety of every individual who walks through the doors of Temple Sinai. We know that we must be alert, vigilant, and ready for the unexpected.
Our lay leaders and professional staff are keenly aware of the need for heightened security and awareness at this time. Temple Sinai largely keeps quiet about our security measures because they lose some of their effectiveness when they are broadly public. With that in mind, we do want to inform you, in the wake of this tragedy, about some of what is in place to ensure your safety and that of your children.
Our security systems are overseen by our Executive Director, Joe Slade. Joe brings 15 years of training and experience in safety and security to our congregation, including experience working with the Secret Service and training from Homeland Security. Joe served as the security supervisor for a 54-acre URJ summer camp, and received training through the Union’s Israeli security experts as well.
Our current security measures include:
- Emergency protocols for confronting violent incidents and other potentially dangerous situations
- Professional security personnel whenever children are onsite, and when in-person worship occur
Specific protocols for when the playgrounds and blacktop are in use - Locked doors with cameras and intercoms, so we have advance notice of who is entering the building and can deny access
- All staff receive annual safety & security training, as well as bi-annual CPR training
- A strong relationship with the Tenafly Police Department, who conducts regular visits to our facility
- Regular communication from the Secure Community Network, Anti-Defamation League, and other organizations that keeps us informed of any threats that impact the Jewish community and the northern New Jersey area.
Here's how you can help:
- Receive training to become a community security volunteer— contact Paul Seitelman for more information
- Please be understanding if we ask who you are before we buzz you in
- Don't let anyone in behind you unless you know who they are
- Let us know if you see anyone or anything suspicious
Most importantly, we are continuously evaluating and improving our safety and security protocols. In addition, we have been in touch with the Tenafly Police, the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office, the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security, and our security consultant this week. They have assured us that there are no credible threats against the New Jersey Jewish community at this time.
Please be assured that we will keep you informed of any changes in our security status and about our continue efforts to protect our community. It is extremely important that we stay united in peace, supporting one another through these anxious times.
L'Shalom,
Rabbi Beth Kramer-Mazer
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