EDITORIAL

Dear Readers,

We live in interesting times, and with every closure there is another opinion about whether – or to what degree – these decisions are politically motivated. One thing we can all agree on is that too many local stores are suffering because of the ever-confusing restrictions. By now you are probably aware of fantastic initiatives, including Rise Up Red Zone and Shop Local, which were started by local askanim to support neighborhood stores. When people come to us for help, we usually write them a check. It’s so much more honorable to help another person by purchasing from their store so they don’t need a handout. With Chanukah around the corner, think twice before ordering those gifts online. While it may be easier – and possibly somewhat cheaper – to shop with a click, make the effort to visit your local store instead, and do your part to keep its doors open. You will help contribute to someone’s parnassah, and you will also be helping yourself. For our community to thrive, we need our stores to stay open.

Here at the JCCMP, we have introduced a few new initiatives. We have partnered with CHH (Chesed Help and Hope) to help families in need pay for appliance repair. Please visit our website for more information about this project. We have also organized free computer courses including graphics, social media marketing, QuickBooks, and more, all free of charge, to help jumpstart your business or career.

With Hashem’s help, life has resumed to some semblance of normalcy within the last few weeks. Let us daven that things will continue to improve. Let us support each other and things will be even better.

Warm regards,
Shea