Tuesday 3/24/20 Letter from the Vaad Harabonim
- We are compelled to reaffirm our previous statement (made on 3/22 – 26 Adar), that no one should bring family or friends from out of town to Cleveland for Pesach this year. Unfortunately, this includes not bringing parents, or even children, that will instead have to make Yom Tov for themselves. This difficult decision was made in conjunction with local health experts, and is being treated as a matter of pikuach nefashos. This policy has been adopted by national organizations as well (https://agudah.org/joint-statement-to-the-orthodox-community-regarding-pesach). Any exception granted previously by a Rov has been rescinded, and is no longer relevant.
- Individuals and families should also not travel to other cities for Yom Tov, as it would endanger our community upon return.
- We also urge families not to invite local guests. Those who find themselves in extremely difficult circumstances, may self-quarantine for 14 days, and spend Yom Tov with someone local who has done the same. Please discuss this matter with your Rov and physician, and check back for updates as guidelines are constantly changing.
- We remind Yeshiva Bochurim who returned home to adhere to the guidelines mandated by health officials, and we plead with those who have been exposed to the virus to self-quarantine.
- Additionally, cleaning help should not be brought into the home at this time, as it may bring added exposure to this dangerous virus.
May we merit Yeshuos and Refuos soon and a Chag Kasher V’Sameach,
Va’ad HaRabbonim of Greater Cleveland
“STAY HOME; SAVE LIVES.” Joint Statement to the Orthodox Community Regarding Pesach
Beware! Medicaid Scam!
From Gesher’s February Newsletter:
It has come to our attention that there is a dangerous scam going around, where the scammer is posing as a Medicaid case worker. The scammer will validate the call by identifying the last four digits of the victims social security number and ask that you return the call to 800-640-6446. The correct County Medicaid hotline is 844– 640-6446. If any of our clients feel that they may have been affected by this, please give us a call.
Alert from Vaad Hatzedakos of Ohio
Printable version of the Vaad Hatzedakos letter
Dear Members of the Cleveland Community,
An individual from Israel recently received a letter from the Vaad Hatzedakos to raise funds in Cleveland. It has come to our attention that upon a review of their accounts, a member of the community noticed that a check given to this individual and written to Chasdie Tovim Meoros was used to create a dummy (fake) check, which was then deposited. While we cannot be sure if this individual was responsible, the individual was flagged in the database that we share with a number of cities around the country.
We are notifying you so that you can review your accounts.
In light of this incident, it is worth reiterating that individuals raising funds in Cleveland should be encouraged to obtain a certificate from the Vaad Hatzedakos. The Vaad is available every day and is easy to contact. Participation in this program helps prevent questionable activity and ensures that members of the community can have confidence in their philanthropic activities.
Thank you,
Rabbi Mordechai Mandel
Vaad Hatzedakos of Ohio
Purim Costume Shatnez Warning
The Luach Davar B’Ito reminds all that Purim costumes (especially hats from Eastern Europe) may contain Shatnez, and accordingly should be checked in advance of Purim to make sure that the costume is usable. Renting a costume may prove difficult if one is not able to partially open it up to inspect for shatnez. The Luach also advises against costumes that can scare others and also reminds parents to double-check the wearability of a child’s costume to avoid last minute disappointment that the costume does not fit or falls apart.
Trash Pickup Delayed By One Day This Week
Trash pickup this week for Beachwood, Cleveland Heights, and University Heights is delayed by one day due to MLK Day.
Duncan Hines Recall
From prnewswire.com via a tip from a reader.
Duncan Hines Classic White, Classic Butter Golden, Signature Confetti And Classic Yellow Cake Mixes Recalled Due To Potential Presence Of Salmonella
As of now this is a voluntary recall. The products affected are the following:
| Product Description & Brand | Product UPC | Best If Used By Date (located on top of box) |
| Duncan Hines Classic White Cake 15.25oz. | 644209307500 |
MAR 7 2019 MAR 8 2019 MAR 9 2019 MAR 10 2019 MAR 12 2019 MAR 13 2019 |
| Duncan Hines Classic Yellow Cake 15.25oz. | 644209307494 |
MAR 9 2019 MAR 10 2019 MAR 12 2019 MAR 13 2019 |
| Duncan Hines Classic Butter Golden Cake 15.25oz. | 644209307593 |
MAR 7 2019 MAR 8 2019 MAR 9 2019 |
| Duncan Hines Signature Confetti Cake 15.25oz. | 644209414550 |
MAR 12 2019 MAR 13 2019 |
Consumers who have purchased these items are advised not to consume them and to return them to the store where originally purchased. Conagra Brands is cooperating with the FDA on this recall and is working with customers to ensure the packages are removed from store shelves and are no longer distributed. Consumers with questions should call our Consumer Care team at 1-888-299-7646, open 9 am through 5 pm EST, Monday through Friday or visit www.duncanhines.com.
Recognizing Signs of Heat-Related Illness
In the past few days, there have been multiple instances of heat-related medical emergencies in the local frum community.
These tips from CDC’s Extreme Heat Media Kit can help you prevent heat-related illnesses,
injuries, and deaths during hot weather.
Stay cool. Keep your body temperature cool to avoid heat-related illness.
- Stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible.
- Find an air-conditioned shelter.
- Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device.
- Avoid direct sunlight.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Take cool showers or baths.
- Check on those most at-risk twice a day.
Stay hydrated. Because your body loses fluids through sweat, you can become
dehydrated during times of extreme heat.
- Drink more water than usual.
- Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink more fluids.
- Drink from two to four cups of water every hour while working or exercising outside.
- Avoid alcohol or liquids containing high amounts of sugar.
- Remind others to drink enough water.
Stay informed. Stay updated on local weather forecasts so you can plan activities
safely when it’s hot outside.
- Check local news for extreme heat alerts and safety tips.
- Learn the symptoms of heat illness.
- For more information, please click here.
Yom Tov Safety Guide from Chaverim and Local Fire Departments
(For those of you that don’t have internet access, please email info@localjewishnews.com and we’ll email you the pdf.)
Chaverim of Cleveland Yom Tov Fire and Safety Guide
Chaverim wants to remind you that on all yomim tovim–but especially when there are three days of yom tov–there are many increased risks from extra cooking, leaving stoves and ovens on, increased use of fire and more.
Please download and print the following guide to help identify potential safety problems and work to avoid or mitigate them. Of primary importance, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors save lives. Please make sure yours are healthy. Never ignore a detector’s alarm.
Kidde Smoke Alarm Recall
From Consumer Product Safety Commission website (https://goo.gl/wm95Dp)
Name of product:
Kidde dual-sensor (photoelectric and ionization) smoke alarms – models PI2010 and PI9010
Hazard:
A yellow cap left on during the manufacturing process can cover one of the two smoke sensors and compromise the smoke alarm’s ability to detect smoke, posing a risk of consumers not being alerted to a fire in their home.
Remedy:
Replace
Recall date:
March 21, 2018
Units:
About 452,000 in the U.S. (In addition, about 40,000 were sold in Canada.)
Consumer Contact:
Kidde toll-free at 833-551-7739 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m.to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, or online at www.kidde.com and click on “Product Safety Recall” for more information.
Daylight Saving Time Begins Motzei Shabbos
Remember to set your clocks ahead one hour before you go to sleep.
Practically, this means that zmanim will be (nearly) one hour later on Sunday.
Eruv Has Been Fixed and IS KOSHER – Shabbos Parshas Vayakhel Pekudei 5778
Friday, 3:00pm – The eruv is kosher.
Confirmed directly from Rabbi Dick and Mrs. Berkowitz.
Baruch Hashem the Eruv has been repaired and is UP and functional.
We want to express our thanks to the Illuminating Company and First Energy,
Rabbi Dick and Rabbi Grunwald for expediting this major repair in this inclement weather.
We felt it was necessary to advise everyone of the situation because of the severity of the
damage and because of the uncertainty of the timeline in getting it repaired.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Cleveland Eruv Status: CURRENTLY NOT KOSHER – Unlikely to Be Fixed in Time for Shabbos
Thursday, 6:45pm – I just spoke to Rabbi Yonah Dick of the Cleveland Eruv Society. The eruv is currently NOT kosher. Further, there is a good chance it will NOT be fixed in time for Shabbos.
However, up until 5pm the status can change since that’s when the repair crews will stop working. Rabbi Dick will be posting an update at or around that time on the Eruv Hotline at 216-586-9222. LJN will also be sending out a special email at or around that time.
Daylight Saving Time Begins Motzei Shabbos
Remember to set your clocks ahead one hour before you go to sleep.
Practically, this means that zmanim will be (nearly) one hour later on Sunday.
A Touch of Gold – One Stop Shop for All Your Wig Needs
1/12/18 Early School Dismissals – Plus Minyan Request
Hebrew Academy
- HAC dismissing early, at 12 with bussing.
- Oakwood Yeshiva of Cleveland dismissing at 12:30 with bussing.
- Yavne dismissing at 11:30 with 12:00 bussing.
LJN publishes on Friday only when there is an immediate need. Since this post will likely be highly viewed, I’m taking the unusual step of including an unrelated but important request.
The funeral of Martin Tesler, ob”m, is today. Due to the circumstances, a minyan isn’t confirmed. If you can help with a graveside minyan that would be a huge help and zechus. https://www.localjewishnews.com/2018/01/11/baruch-dayan-haemes-martin-tesler-obm/
Ugg Boots Shatnez Alert
For more information, please contact Rabbi A. Miller at 440-465- 1063 (call or text).
Reminder from a Concerned Reader
Reminder!
Do not leave children unattended in cars for even a second, tragedy can strike.
Today two young children were left in a running car with the keys in it right outside of one of the local kosher food establishments. It only takes one second for someone to jump in and take off with the children inside. There have been a rash of stolen cars, never leave children unattended in a car, not even for one second while you are “running in”.
Precautions Regarding Vehicle Safety from Councilmembers Weiss/Wiseman and Federation Security Director Hartnett
From University Heights Councilmembers Michele Weiss and Mark Wiseman:
To all residents. Since the beginning of November there have been 6 auto thefts and most recently a member of our community has been robbed at gunpoint and car stolen. The local police departments are looking into suspects and are taking steps to insure our safety. Please take the following preventative measures:
- Always lock your car door
- Do not leave valuables in the car
- Do not leave your car while at a gas station unlocked or running
Thank you
Michele Weiss & Mark Wiseman
From Jim Hartnett, Federation’s Director of Community-Wide Security:
Beachwood, University Heights and surrounding communities have been experiencing an increase in stolen autos, thefts from vehicles and in one recent instance an armed carjacking. Our area police are working in close coordination with each other to combat this type activity. Last year around the holiday season there were several instances where criminals used a vehicle to “Bump and Rob” a victim including one at Menorah Park. This is a common method criminals use to steal a car. It works like this: a car, usually with a driver and at least one passenger, bumps the rear of your car in traffic. You stop; get out to check for damage and exchange information. Then either the driver or one of the passengers (partners) jumps into your car and drives off. Women seem to be targeted more often than men for this type of crime.
Area police departments are recommending community members remember the following:
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Lock your vehicles at ALL times
- Secure your home and garage at ALL times and do not leave valuables outside
- Do not leave keys in unattended vehicles while warming them up or otherwise
- If you are confronted by a carjacker who is armed or if the criminal is violently agitated, excited or angry give up your car keys and car and leave the scene (you can get another car but not another life). If in the auto, get out quickly; leave the keys, pocketbook, etc., and leave the area immediately.
- Be on the lookout for, and REPORT ANY SUSPICIOUS PERSONS OR ACTIVITIES IMMEDIATELY
Criminal or suspicious activity should immediately be reported by dialing 9-1-1.
Action Alert from Agudath Israel – Call Congress Today and Urge Them to Keep These Key Provisions in Tax Bill!
Rabbi Yitz Frank has asked that we visit http://agudathisrael.org/call-congress-today-and-urge-them-to-keep-these-key-provisions-in-tax-bill/ to take action on this.
As the House and Senate will soon meet to iron out differences between their respective versions of the tax bill, we turn to our members and friends to help weigh in on issues of great importance to the Orthodox Jewish community.
We are asking that you contact your Senator and Representative to have them urge the Conference Committee to:
(1) Retain the Qualified Tuition Reduction provision, which provides tax benefits to teachers and other school administrators. Elimination of QTR would not only have serious tax consequences for them, but it could bump them into tax brackets that would force some of them to lose certain social service benefits. While our financially strapped yeshivos often find it difficult to offer competitive salaries, this benefit makes it easier for them to still hire high quality educational and executive staff. And, it is ultimately a benefit for everyone in the school and community, as it helps keeps already exorbitant tuition costs down.
(2) Retain the expansion of 529 accounts to K-12, which will allow tax free withdrawals from education savings accounts for private school tuition and other expenses. This benefit will be of help to segments of our schools’ parent bodies. It is a good and important first step that can be built upon on the state and federal levels. While it is in both bills, it was narrowly passed in the Senate and has come under fierce attack by anti-school choice advocates. So it is important that the Conference Committee hears from us.
By clicking on the take action button below you will be directed to our advocacy portal where you can call or email your elected officials. Please make it personal and edit as you see fit.
Please note that Agudath Israel has been speaking out on several “individual/family” aspects of the tax bills that could have detrimental impact on substantial portions of the Orthodox community, including the possible elimination or limitation on deductions for personal exemptions, state and local taxes, medical expenses, etc. We will continue to monitor and speak out on those issues and possibly provide further updates and alerts on them as we communicate with the Conference Committee.
Remind Your Children to Look Both Ways When Crossing
From a reader:
Some of the children early in the morning, especially on East Carroll, are not looking both ways when crossing the street. I hope parents can do something about this.
Empire Issues Recall of Certain Chicken Breasts
From the Empire Kosher website:
Empire Kosher® is committed to producing the highest quality products and our top priority is the safety of our consumers. Unfortunately, due to an equipment malfunction certain of our boneless chicken breast products have the potential to contain a piece of extraneous material contamination. Out of an abundance of caution we are issuing a voluntary recall for five products with identified sell by dates manufactured in one of our facilities (USDA-FSIS Establishment P-1015). There have been no reports of illness or injury associated with this issue.
The affected lots of Empire Kosher® Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast were distributed to select Costco, select Trader Joe’s, and select Wegmans stores only. No other retailers received these products.
The affected products and ‘Sell By Dates’ dates that are being recalled are:
| Customer | Hain Item # | Product Description | Size | Sell By date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Costco | EKP46375 | Empire Kosher® Chicken Boneless Breast Cutlet Chill Pack | 4 – 5.25 lbs | 11/14/2017 |
| Trader Joe’s | EKP92615 | Empire Kosher® Chicken Cutlet Chill Pack | 1 – 1.25 lbs | 11/17/2017 |
| Wegmans | EKP7888 | Empire Kosher® Chicken Cutlet Chill Pack | 1 – 1.25 lbs | 11/16/2017 |
| EKP7598 | Empire Kosher® Chicken Cutlet Chill Pack | 2.5 lbs | 11/16/2017 | |
| EKP7488 | Empire Kosher® Thin Sliced Boneless Chicken Breasts | 1 – 1.25 lbs | 11/16/2017 |
East Carroll Detour
As of Friday, 12:30pm:
East Carroll is completely closed to traffic between Belvoir and Bromley.
Please share updates in comments.
Tornado Watch Issued Until 7PM
A tornado watch has been issued for Cuyahoga County among others. It’s in effect until 7pm. For more information visit https://www.google.org/publicalerts/alert?aid=62b341215c850951.
Update – Registered Offender Added to the Sheriff’s Registry
Update: A day 10 eviction notice has been served.
The offender’s registered address is 4446 Groveland University Heights which is right in our community. While the laws regarding a minimum separation of 1000 feet between offenders and schools or childcare facilities are nuanced and therefore not always easily enforced, UHPD and the Sheriff’s Department were contacted to inform them that the address is within 1000 feet of the Gearity School property. Additionally, the property owner has begun taking steps toward eviction.
Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office maintains the registry which is also available as a public website.
Please note this is not necessarily the only such offender living in our community but rather the most recent addition.
Registered Offender Added to the Sheriff’s Registry
The offender’s registered address is 4446 Groveland University Heights which is right in our community. While the laws regarding a minimum separation of 1000 feet between offenders and schools or childcare facilities are nuanced and therefore not always easily enforced, UHPD and the Sheriff’s Department were contacted to inform them that the address is within 1000 feet of the Gearity School property. Additionally, the property owner has begun taking steps toward eviction.
Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office maintains the registry which is also available as a public website.
Please note this is not necessarily the only such offender living in our community but rather the most recent addition.
Ask Amazon to Remove the “Anne Frank Costume”
Sign the ADL petition at http://action.adl.org/amazon-costume/.
Yom Tov Safety Guide from Chaverim and Local Fire Departments
(For those of you that don’t have internet access, please email info@localjewishnews.com and we’ll email you the pdf.)
Chaverim of Cleveland Yom Tov Fire and Safety Guide
Chaverim wants to remind you that on all yomim tovim–but especially this year since there are many three-day yomim tovim–there are many increased risks from extra cooking, leaving stoves and ovens on, increased use of fire and more.
Please download and print the following guide to help identify potential safety problems and work to avoid or mitigate them. Of primary importance, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors save lives. Please make sure yours are healthy. Never ignore a detector’s alarm.
Yom Tov Safety Guide from Chaverim and Local Fire Departments
(For those of you that don’t have internet access, please email info@localjewishnews.com and we’ll email you the pdf.)
Chaverim of Cleveland Yom Tov Fire and Safety Guide
Chaverim wants to remind you that on all yomim tovim–but especially this year since there are many three-day yomim tovim–there are many increased risks from extra cooking, leaving stoves and ovens on, increased use of fire and more.
Please download and print the following guide to help identify potential safety problems and work to avoid or mitigate them. Of primary importance, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors save lives. Please make sure yours are healthy. Never ignore a detector’s alarm.