As we all know, over a year and a half ago, California and the rest of the nation was forced to cease all gatherings to begin the long process of keeping our citizens and loved ones safe and to combat the growth of this persistent disease. Finally and thankfully, we have reached a point that allows us to meet once again inside the Synagogue. 

Even though the Tor/Tahoe consortium has allowed us to stay in touch, meet new friends and continue our learning and worship with each other, we have all looked forward to the time when we could meet inside with our TBY chevre (friends). The path the pandemic has taken allows us to begin the opening process. 

While the decision to start meeting in person occurred several weeks ago, we started by having small meetings outdoors and were able to have the Rabbi, Cantor and the past presidents who brought our precious Torah scrolls back home to TBY 

Based on reviewing the present CDC guidelines and honoring the tradition of TBY to protect all members of the congregation, the Board has approved the following TBY Vaccine and Social Distancing Policy: 

Effective immediately anyone who is entering the synagogue or attending synagogue events held indoors for the foreseeable future is required to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 (if they have reached age eligibility). “Fully vaccinated” means they are at least two weeks past their first J&J shot or two weeks after their second shot for all others. Everyone will be required to wear a face mask that is rated N95, KN95 or equivalent, and which fully covers their nose and mouth at all times. Congregants may also be asked to show their vaccine card upon request.  The person(s) responsible for any specific program, event or service, has the sole discretion to be unmasked as needed, but will continue to maintain appropriate social distancing measures at all times.  While everyone is highly encouraged to bring their own face covering, there will be some highly rated face coverings available at the front door of the synagogue for those who require one.  It is important to remember to respect everyone’s social distancing expectations, since many individuals have different levels of comfort.  Please maintain at least 6 feet of distance from one another, for social distancing purposes, unless you have received an approval from the other party, to make any changes to that distancing requirement.  We know how difficult this social distancing policy is, since our TBY culture has always included hugs as part of our social greetings to one another

While there will not immediately be a virtual option for all events, we will be considering ways to make that available whenever possible in the future.

If you have any questions about the policy, please do not hesitate to contact any member of the Board.

We are looking forward to seeing all of you at the General Meeting on October 13 at TBY!

Tom Goldenberg

Wayne Omel

Allan Silver

Charna Silver

Lisa Sinizer

Alexis Wagner