AARON HAMILL

We are sorry to report that Aaron Hamill (Aharon Michael ben Sarah) suffered a stroke Wednesday afternoon. As of this writing he is in the Intensive Care Unit at Riverbend Hospital. They say he can have visitors, but only one or two at a time. His basic problem was hypertension, and speaking causes blood pressure to rise, even when speaking calmly, so quick visits, little talking. We pray for his complete and speedy recovery.

LAG B’OMER

This coming Thursday, May 23, is Lag B’Omer, the thirty-third day of the Omer period. It serves as a break in the semi-mourning days between Pesach and Shavuoth. A plague that raged among the disciples of Rabbi Akiva ended on this day. In Israel, this day is marked by a pilgrimage of many thousands to the tomb of Rabbi Simeon ben Yochai, a second century scholar, in Meron in northern Israel. He is believed to have died this day. It is customary to light bonfires (not advisable in Eugene) and conduct mock battles in commemoration of the military victories of Bar Kochba against the Romans.

SECURITY IMPROVEMENTS

Shortly after the tragic shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, members of Ahavas Torah decided that we need to improve the security arrangements at our shul. It is essential that we ask our members and friends to make an extra contribution this spring to help pay for the security improvements. So far, we have raised $5,006.50. Tax-deductible donations should be made payable to “Ahavas Torah” and designated “for security.” You may do this through the Donate button at the left. Just specify "Security" in the Special Instructions section after the login to Paypal. Please contact us if you have any questions.

Thank you,

Baruch HaLevi, Safety Committee Chair

George Tanner, Secretary