Dec 3rd 2010, 00:00

            A little over three weeks ago, I was in the northern Israeli port city of Haifa along with the rest of the tour group from our Temple.  From there we climbed the Carmel mountain range and headed north through various villages, communities, and cities.  If you have seen recent news reports, that region of Israel is now on fire.  When we were in Israel, we, along with all Israelis were marveling at the pleasant weather we were all enjoying.  Normally, November is the beginning of winter and the rainy season, but instead, the weather was warm and dry, unseasonably warm and dry.  And although it was very pleasant weather for touring, there was clearly a hidden danger lurking.
            While we were there, there were news reports of a small forest fire.  During one of our drives, we got stuck in a traffic jam due to fire trucks and equipment along the side of the highway working to put out hot spots in the hills and canyons.  We could see the smoke from our bus windows and our tour guide explained that Israel was in dire need of rain and that fire conditions were extremely dangerous.
            Sadly this week, fire exploded in the Carmel mountains above Haifa.  The raging fire has been called the worst ever in Israel.  Not just the worst forest fire, but the worst ever fire period in the State’s history.  Now, the Jewish nation, which routinely sends help to other countries in the wake of natural disasters, has asked for help from neighboring nations.  The United States has also pledged help, support, and equipment to combat the fires.
            If the destruction of the trees, forests, foliage, and ground cover were not enough, yesterday there came reports that a bus full of prison guard cadets became trapped in the flames and that some 40 souls were lost.  No doubt these were young people who dedicated their lives to help others – the first responders as we refer to them here in America.  According to reports, they were on their way to evacuate a prison which was being threatened by the smoke and flames.  One report I received said it was a prison full of Palestinian inmates.  Whatever the circumstances, the incredible loss of life, especially for such a small country, has to be devastating beyond belief.  That this happened on the first day of Chanukkah, a festival of joy, gladness, and light, has to compound the grief for the families even more.
            Even if I hadn’t been walking a little over three weeks ago exactly where the flames are raging today, I would still be deeply touched by this tragedy, and I know you join me in sending our prayers to our brothers and sisters in Israel.  TBT President Ben Berkley has also sent you an email with some information and a link to donate to the JNF.  There are many worthy organizations collecting funds to help those in need in Israel.  Over the next few day and weeks, we can all pray that the situation improves and that the fire is brought under control.  We also mourn for those lives that were lost.
            As they say, switching gears, tonight at Temple at 7:30 PM will be our Chanukkah Family Service with birthday and anniversary blessings for December.  Our Jr. Choir will also sing their Chanukkah songs and of course we will light the Menorah.  Tomorrow, Torah Study and religious school as usual and our Shabbat morning service at 10:00 AM at which time Breanna Marks, granddaughter of Max and Sophia Litt, will be called to the Torah as a bat mitzvah.  Mazal tov to Breanna and her entire family.  Both services will be broadcast live on our website: www.templebethtikvah.com (click on Live Services).  By the way, you can now watch the service in full screen mode!  You can now also find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @OCJewish.  Have a great weekend!